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N THIS SSUE Around Town Creve Coeur receives Municipal League of Metro St. Louis Award for Sustainability and more.
Feature A window into history Historic sites around Creve Coeur offer a glimpse into the area’s past By Sara Hardin
Our Thoughts Moore on Life author Cindy Moore realizes sending a man to a big box store is a mistake while Avalanche discusses the pros and cons of having your motorcycle break down. The 2017 Ford Raptor allows you to off-road in style in this month’s Automobile Alley.
Caring Partners Tips for eliminating backyard pests.
Lifestyle Taking a look at the wonder women behind the camera in Entertainment. Adding some sizzle to your grill for the Fourth of July in For the Love of Food.
In Depth Maryland Heights Community Center hosts grand opening.
Events Calendar Cover Photo - Ray Rockwell Staff Writer - Sarah Hardin
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AuthorBiographies
Our Town Volume 08 | Number 7 JULY 2017
4 | OUR TOWN | JULY 2017
PUBLISHER Robert Huneke EDITOR Mathew DeKinder PRODUCTION Lisa Moran Melissa Nordmann CONTRIBUTORS Avalanche, David Finkelstein, Brian Guerrero, Cindy Moore STAFF WRITERS Brett Auten Sara Hardin
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info@mycnews.com or
Community News
Avalanche is a functional illiterate who left the St. Louis area three decades ago in search of adventure. He enjoys motorcycling and all things outdoors. He lives with his wife and dogs.
Avalanche
Sara Hardin is a senior English and Writing student at the University of Missouri - St. Louis. After earning her degree, she hopes to continue her writing journey with Community News, through which she has been able to meet and speak with many of the community’s most influential individuals from her home in North County.
Sara Hardin
David Finkelstein
David Finkelstein is a Master/Skill Automotive Service Technician, maintaining that role for over 45 years, coupled with being a shop owner in that time frame as well. He’s also invented a number of garage service tools for mechanics and has served on both National as well as local Automotive Trade Industry Boards. Additionally, he pioneered “Car Talk Radio” over 40 years ago, starting out with KMOX/CBS Radio as well as hosted “Auto Talk” on KFTK/FOX News Radio for some 15-years. David tests and evaluates new vehicles weekly and also does some consulting with various auto manufacturers, both import as well as with domestic nameplates.
Cindy Moore is the mother of three superlative kids, servant of two self-indulgent felines and wife to one nifty husband. Her ficticious occupation? Archeological Humorist: someone who unearths absurdity and hilarity in strange and unusual places including public restrooms, the lint filter, and church meetings. Most recently, she excavated a find in her neighbor’s bird feeder.
Cindy Moore
Brian Guerro
Brian Guerrero is a former resident of Los Angeles and a current resident of New York City with extensive experience in front of and behind the camera for film and television.
Published by the Community News, Our Town is a monthly news magazine covering the cities of Creve Coeur, Maryland Heights, and Olivette. Circulation is 7,000 monthly through over 105 monitored newsstands guaranteeing 100% pickup. Additional issues are distributed online, and a free online subscription is available at www. mycnews.com
2139 Bryan Valley Commercial Dr. O’Fallon, MO 63366 Ph: 636.379.1775 Fx: 636.379.1632 www.mycnews.com Copyright 2017 Huneke Publications, Inc. No part of the publication may be reproduced in any form without the expressed written consent of the publisher.
AroundTown
Strolling for a cure
LET YOUR BUSINESS MEET OUR READERS
SUBMITTED PHOTO
Rett Syndrome Strollathon raises $45,000
The International Rett Syndrome Foundation, now known as Rettsyndrome.org, recently held its 10th annual St. Louis Strollathon and raised $45,000.
The International Rett Syndrome Foundation (IRSF), now known as Rettsyndrome.org, recently held its 10th annual St. Louis Strollathon and raised $45,000. All proceeds will benefit Rett Syndrome research. This year the Strollathon had 400 participants which included 18 families of girls and women with Rett syndrome. More than $600,000 total has been raised from the past 10 walks. The Strollathon program, Rettsyndrome.org’s national signature fundraising event, has brought families together to fundraise and to strengthen the local Rett community since 2004. Strollathons have raised a grand total of nearly $10 million nationwide for research treatments and a cure in the last 13 years. St. Louis features a specialty clinic to care for and support children with Rett
syndrome and Rett-related disorders. The clinic, a collaboration between Washington University School of Medicine and St. Louis Children’s Hospital, was named one of 14 Rett syndrome clinical research centers of excellence. The clinic features a team of specialists with substantial experience in the diagnostic evaluation and treatment of individuals with Rett syndrome. By partnering with families and community healthcare providers, the clinic delivers care that is comprehensive and appropriate for a family’s individual needs. Rett syndrome is a genetic neurological disorder that occurs almost exclusively in females and becomes apparent after 6-18 months of early normal development. It results in a regression that leads to lifelong impairments.
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AroundTown
Rocking Forest Park LouFest 2017 lineup and location change announced LouFest 2017 promises to again deliver on a diverse lineup and impressive guest experience – with several significant additions to the festival and a venue change within historic Forest Park. LouFest 2017 will be held on the Upper Muny Grounds and Festival Plaza, the recently transformed event space that sits above the Muny Amphitheater. “We’re excited to be next to this historic landmark in a space with so much to offer. The natural amphitheater setting of our main stage as well as the infrastructure of the Festival Plaza will provide an incredible visitor experience,” says Mike Van Hee, partner with Listen Live Entertainment, the producers of LouFest. The 2017 festival is expanding to a third night—adding Sept. 8 to the lineup as LouFestU makes its debut. An 6 | OUR TOWN |JULY 2017
event dedicated to St. Louis area university students, in partnership with the St. Louis Regional Chamber, this Friday night kick-off will include performances from local and national bands and guest speakers, and opportunities for young minds to engage with regional employers and entrepreneurial organizations. Honoring Chuck Berry will be an important aspect of the festival going forward. “Just as Chuck made an indelible mark on music of every genre, in his honor LouFest will make his legacy an everlasting part of our event,” say Mike Van Hee and Rich Toma, partners with Listen Live Entertainment. Coordinators are working with Chuck Berry’s family on the celebration to be named Hail! Hail! Chuck Berry! “Chuck owned his own live music venue on Grand Av-
enue, hosted outdoor concerts at Berry Park, and played monthly shows at Blueberry Hill for years. Chuck loved to bring people music—especially in St. Louis—and the family is excited to see that carry on through LouFest,” says Gary Pierson, Berry family representative. Also new, the festival will use RFID wristband technology to streamline the ticketing process, shortening lines and enhancing opportunities for guest engagement. Advance tickets will be mailed two-to-three weeks before the festival with instructions to register the wristband online. Attendees should also connect with local citydiscovery app, Olio City, serving as a digital guide to the festival. Download the Olio City app for up-to-date info on the festival, artist discovery, local guides, and more.
AroundTown
A ‘green’ honor LINEUP
LouFest continues its commitment to local bands, with nine acts hailing from, or with ties to, the St. Louis region. The daily lineup with stages and performance times will be released as the event nears. Weezer Snoop Dogg Cage the Elephant Run the Jewels Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats Spoon Huey Lewis & the News Marian Hill Lizzo Houndmouth Lecrae Robert Randolph & The Family Band Hippo Campus The Record Company ZZ Ward Rainbow Kitten Surprise Mondo Cozmo Noname Future Thieves Middle Kids Mvstermind Ron Gallo Jonny P Harts Jess Nolan Chris Bandi Jack Grelle 18AndCounting & TheOnlyEnsemble Beth Bombarra Mathias & the Pirates Starwolf Daily Performances by Robot+Bike on the LouKidz Stage Plus: Hail! Hail! Chuck Berry! A Celebration Honoring the Father of Rock N’ Roll
Creve Coeur receives Municipal League of Metro St. Louis Award for Sustainability The city of Creve Coeur received the 2017 Muni Award for Sustainability from the Municipal League of Metro St. Louis. Creve Coeur’s commitment to sustainability began in 2008 when the city signed the U.S. Mayor’s Climate Protection Agreement and established a Climate Action Task Force. That year, the city also completed St. Louis region’s first municipal Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory. In 2010, Creve Coeur took another significant step toward improving sustainability efforts by adopting phase one of the Climate Action Plan with a goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions community-wide by 20 percent by 2015. In an effort to achieve this goal, the city made several changes to improve the energy efficiency of municipal operations such as installing LED lighting, installing a new boiler and hot water system, and utilizing Ameren rebates for a solar panel installation at the recreation center. In December 2011, the city council adopted a resolution to initiate the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Green Power Community Challenge in Creve Coeur to support the purchase of renewable energy. The city became a Green Power Community in June 2013 and remains one of only three cities in Missouri and one of 61 cities nationwide with that status. The city council affirmed its on-
going commitment to sustainability efforts in 2014 when it dissolved the Climate Action Task Force and created the permanent Energy and Environment Committee. In 2016, the city council adopted phase two of the Climate Action Plan, which includes more ambitious initiatives that encourage the community as a whole to make energy use and waste reductions. They also approved an ordinance authorizing the city to join the Missouri Clean Energy District for the purpose of providing residential, commercial and municipal property owners within city limits access to special financing options for energy efficiency improvements and renewable energy updates. “The city of Creve Coeur is committed to becoming a more sustainable city so that we not only bring quality services to our residents but do so in a way that preserves our planet for generations to come,” said Creve Coeur Mayor Barry Glantz. “I would like to thank our citizen volunteers, residents, business owners and city staff whose dedication and passion for sustainability have made a lasting impact on our community.”
JULY 2017 | OUR TOWN | 7
AroundTown
Fighting hunger
No matter how hot St. Louis summers get, children – approximately 173,000 in our bi-state region – still need to be fed. Enter Operation Food Search (OFS), a nonprofit hunger relief organization, which has teamed up with new area partners to create additional avenues and expand existing methods for feeding children 18 years of age and younger. The Summer Food Service Program (SFSP), which is funded by the USDA, ensures that children continue to receive nutritious meals when school is not in session. The summer meal program runs through Aug. 11 with mobile and stationary service Mon. through Fri. In 2012, OFS sponsored SFSP at a single location, serving 5,000 meals to children. Last year the organization served nearly 100,000 meals at a combination of stationary and mobile sites throughout the St. Louis region. The introduction of the mobile meals concept proved successful in breaking down transportation barriers and increased access to healthy food. As a result, child participation at OFS-sponsored sites grew by 40 percent over summer 2015. This year the mobile meal vans will expand from 16 locations to a total of 33. New collaborations and extended services include: • OFS will team up with 20 AmeriCorps leaders who are part of the Corporation for National and Community Service, a federal agency that helps millions of Americans improve the lives of their fellow citizens through service. Along with meal service, AmeriCorps volunteers will 8 | OUR TOWN |JULY 2017
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Operation Food Search introduces new summertime food opportunities
Operation Food Search has teamed up with new area partners to create additional avenues and expand existing methods for feeding children 18 years of age and younger.
provide educational interaction and entertaining activities. • The St. Louis Public Library – which has five locations – will now feature the OFS mobile route service at the following branch locations: Carpenter, Carondelet, Central, Divoll, and Walnut Park. OFS has offered the stationary option at several St. Louis County Libraries since 2014 and will continue this year. • St. Louis Community Credit Union – which has three of its 15 locations for distribution sites – will now feature OFS mobile route service at the following branches: Gateway (Union and Natural Bridge), Pagedale (24:1 Wealth Accumulation Center), and Benton Park (South City Wealth Accumulation Center). • Community pop-up pantries,
which will be held on five Fridays throughout the summer, will provide shelf-stable food, fresh fruits and vegetables, and on-site cooking demonstrations. The pop-up pantries will be located on the existing mobile routes to ensure access to healthy food over the weekend. The SFSP is administered by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (MDHSS) and funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). “This program is a part of our campaign to end childhood hunger and combat the toxic stress that threatens our area’s youth,” said Operation Food Search Executive Director Sunny Schaefer. “We greatly appreciate the far-reaching community support we have received this year because it allows us to help those who would otherwise go hungry during the summer.”
AroundTown
Nerdy Girlz make reading cool Nerdy Girlz Book Club encourages young girls to become stronger readers
Few book clubs have taken off quite like the Nerdy Girlz Book Club. The club, for ages six and up, has garnered quite a bit of attention and been a part of the Annie Malone May Day Parade since its inception in January 2016. The club has grown from 34 sign-ups to a little over 100 active members. The attention all started when Kennedy Thompson’s older brother, who is incarcerated, wrote a heart-felt letter aiming to help his sister get exposure for her book club. Kennedy, age nine, is the cofounder of the club with her mom Akiba. Kennedy’s proud brother was successful in his endeavors and the public began to take notice. Last year, the Hazelwood School District Board of Education awarded Kennedy with a Kids on the Move! award for her start of the book club. The club’s mission is to inspire young female readers to become knowledgeable of different people, places, and things, through reading while having fun. The ‘girlz’ meet twice a month on either a prescheduled Saturday or Sunday. One of the meetings takes place at the Jamestown Bluffs Library or another library; the other meeting day is always a fun day. The club’s next fun day on June 11 will take place at the St. Louis Zoo. Primarily, the book club requires each girl take a book home for one month and read it throughout the month for discussion at the next meeting. There are questions to help them with reading comprehension, and fun activities that surround the featured book. The book time is followed by their birthday club celebration and snacks. There is a lifetime membership fee of $30 which includes a backpack filled
CHARLOTTE BEARD
BY CHARLOTTE BEARD
Nerdy Girlz Book Club members (from left) Savannah Williams, Laela Gaines and Kennedy Thompson
with fun girl glasses, a water bottle, ink pen, name tag, lapel pin and a certificate that certifies the girl as a member. The $15 monthly fee covers the featured book each girl receives as their own as well as the birthday club celebration and snacks. Leah Nicholson who handles Nerdy Girlz’ public relations, quite literally stumbled onto the club. “I was in this room [at the library] and [I] walked past and saw these girls with the shirts…I said ‘I want to join. I want to do this, too. What is this?’ So, she [Akiba] started telling us [with friend] about the information. That was in March – we went to our first meeting in March.” Nicholson, who is also a special education teacher in Ferguson, has various roles with the club. “I do the public speaking. I’m more of the person who can reach out to people like our radio stations because I’m in the school system. I always wear my [Nerdy Girlz] shirt to work. We have girls that don’t have any other activities so this gives [them not only] an opportunity to forge sisterhood with girls, but also to really
have a love of reading.” Club members Kennedy, Laela Gaines (eight-year-old daughter of Nicholson) and Savannah Williams (nine-year-old daughter of assistant director Shonta Harris) all agreed that the club was fun but each had something unique to say about it. Kennedy confirmed what her cofounding mom said about her not being as shy since she started the club – it helps her to be “more confident no matter what.” Laela mentioned that she likes having the meetings not just the fun days and Savannah spoke to the help in being able to understand what was read and learning new facts. All three girls suggested everyone should read at least 20 minutes a day and read more books. In addition to the Nerdy Girls, Nerdy Boyz will begin June 25. Anyone looking to join the group or wanting more information can e-mail nerdygirlzbookclub@yahoo.com or visit https:// www.nerdygirlzbookclub.com.
JULY 2017 | OUR TOWN | 9
AroundTown
A healing ride TREE House of Greater St. Louis brings horses and patients together for a unique brand of therapy
Nestled deep in western St. Charles County is a respite that caters to many needs. TREE House of Greater St. Louis, located at 332 Stable Lane in Wentzville, is a unique setting where individuals with disabilities and their families can take on their mental and physical challenges and unleash their true self in a peaceful and tranquil setting. Programs serve clients from age two through adulthood who have physical, mental, emotional, social and/or learning disabilities. Disabilities served include, but are not limited to, autism cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, mental and physical disabilities, traumatic brain injury, and more. TREE House operates year-round and relies heavily on the support of volunteers. Larry Opinsky has been taking his 17-year-old daughter Lilly to TREE House since she was three-years-old. Lilly, who is diagnosed with Rett Syndrome and is wheelchair bound, has grown to love and look forward to the sessions. “We have been to many different types of therapies over the years and it is really impressive to have a therapy that she is excited about going to,” Larry Opinsky said. “The first time, she was unsure and there was a little bit of crying, but by the middle of the second week it was like a bell went off and she has never looked back. My wife and I aren’t horse people but we get the attraction. We understand it. “ Opinsky said one of the biggest difference makers is the motivation Lilly has to work when she is on a horse. “When she is on a horse it is the most independence she gets all day,” 10 | OUR TOWN |JULY 2017
RAY ROCKWELL
BY BRETT AUTEN
Lilly Opinsky participates in her therapy session at TREE House of Greater St. Louis on the back of Java the horse. Java is led by John Finch, while fellow volunteers Julie Wood (left) and Hannah Frederick walk along side.
he said. “The self-esteem alone, when she is on a horse, carries over into the next day and into the rest of the week.” Opinksy radiates when talking about TREE’s philosophy of addressing the person not the diagnosis. The gorgeous surroundings also casts a spell of sorts on the parents. “As much as it means to her, when our car hits the rock road leading up to TREE House it gives me time to step out of the weekly craziness and enjoy the quiet of nature,” Opinsky said. “It’s a big family positive that can’t be duplicated anywhere around here. The volunteers are spectacular and over
the top with the way they respect and approach who they service. It makes my heart glow.” Founded in 1975 and formerly known as Therapeutic Horsemanship, TREE House of Greater St. Louis is the legacy of three extraordinary women – Susie Duesinger, Sandy Rafferty and Laura Carpenter Balding – who began the program in 1975 because they believed in the benefit of equine-assisted therapy for children with disabilities. The organization has accomplished much over its 40-plus year history growing from five riders the first year to now serving more than 300 individ-
AroundTown uals annually. During the early years, TREE House leased several different sites, including Three Creek Farm in St. Charles County and Wessel Stables in Weldon Spring. In 2005, the organization moved into its current facility, which is situated on 88 acres in Wentzville. In 2014, Therapeutic Horsemanship officially changed its name to the TREE House of Greater St. Louis. TREE stands for therapy, recreation, education and exploration – the four main branches of the TREE House. Nate Harms is TREE House’s Executive Director and he sees the somewhat mystical transformations on a daily basis. “I think we’re the best kept secret out there,” Harms said. “I tell people that it’s part science, part magic. I think it’s cool when therapy can be the highlight of someone’s week.” For more information visit thstl.org or call 636-332-4940.
WANT TO HELP? Volunteers are one of the most critical elements at TREE House of Greater St. Louis. For every one client, anywhere from threeto-four volunteers are needed. TREE House relies heavily on over 250 active volunteers each year but they could always use more. Volunteers must be at least 14 years of age and prior horse experience is NOT necessary. If you are interested in finding out more about volunteering, you can email Kathy Castellitto at volunteer@thstl.org or call 636332-4940 x. 211. To register to be a volunteer, you will need to download, complete, and return the volunteer registration packet, which can be found at thstl. org.
Advertorial
Byerly RV helps launch ‘Mac-Nation’
BY RUSS PATTON, OWNER OF BYERLY RV Russ Patton, President of Byerly RV in Eureka, Missouri was a recent recipient of Honorary Doctorate Degree in Business, Accountancy, and Commerce from MacMurray College, a 170 year old college located in Jacksonville, Illinois. Russ has been active in various projects to benefit the college. The Wall Street Journal, in a recent article, best explains his motives. “At some of the most prestigious flagship universities test results indicate the average graduate shows little or no improvement in critical thinking over four years. Some of the biggest gains occur at smaller colleges where students are less accomplished at arrival but soak up a rigorous interdisciplinary curriculum.” WSJ 6/7/2017. When new president, Dr. Mark Tierno, suggested a road-trip to visit successful alumni who are scattered throughout the country. Byerly offered to supply the perfect vehicle, a small Gemini motorhome manufactured by
e th th r o W e D riv
Thor Motorhome Company. The goal is not just to update the alumni on the current events at the college, but to gather stories about MacMurray’s contribution to their success. Students talk about the safe community environment which helps them mature and prepare for live in a changing world through the development of social awareness and communication skills. There are scores of smaller liberal arts colleges which are dedicated to a value-based, character-building educational experience. I attended MacMurray College. President Tiernos’ adventure can be followed through the college website: www.mac.edu. Also, updates will be broadcast weekly on “The Thread” on KTVI Channel 2 at 8:30 a.m. Saturdays and on KPLR Channel 11 at 7 a.m. Sundays. The shows feature St. Louis celebrities Tim Ezell and Virginia Kerr. Byerly RV, the Center of the RV World, Eureka Missouri. Check us out at byerlyrv.com.
Byerly RV 295 East Fifth St. | Eureka, MO 63025 800-878-3325 | 636-938-2000 | www.byerlyrv.com JULY 2017 | OUR TOWN | 11
RAY ROCKWELL
A window into history
Historic sites around Creve Coeur offer a glimpse into the area’s past BY SARA HARDIN It’s not news to anyone that St. Louis has a historic background. The city’s presence in early America and its impact on industrialization, civil rights and even music make the Gateway to the West a fascinating contributor to both national and global history. Narrow the focus even more; however, and our smaller cities’ histories are shown to be much more intimate, 12 | OUR TOWN | JULY 2017
reflecting a simpler time for the area’s early homesteaders. Creve Coeur is among the communities that have made efforts to preserve its historic properties, which now sit on display to aid residents and visitors in considering our predecessors’ way of life. Among Creve Coeur’s historic sites, the most-visited is the Tappmeyer House. The beautiful 19th-century home sheltered four generations of the Tappmeyer family, who made a
Ellen B Lawrence, Ph. D. (left), Creve Coeur Council Member Ward 2, and Jason Valvero, Creve Coeur Director of Recreation, stand outside The Lake School House in Lake School Park in Creve Coeur. The one room schoolhouse is home to some relics like old desks, chalkboards and books that offer a glimpse of how much school life has changed since it was built in 1897.
living farming on their property on Olive Boulevard. The house has since found a new resting place in Millennium Park where visitors can enjoy events and showcases in and around the house. Efforts have been made by the city and by the Tappmeyer Foundation to keep the building in good shape and in working condition for the numerous activities it hosts. “Of the four historical buildings in Creve Coeur, the one that gets the most use is the Tappmeyer House,” said Nancy Litzinger, volunteer with the Creve Coeur Parks and Historic Preservation Committee. “It’s located in Millennium Park, the biggest park that we have, which gets unbelievable traffic. There’s a nice walking trail, there’s a huge playground and a water feature for the kids. I think that another part of the reason the house gets a lot of visitors is that of all the city’s historical buildings, it’s the one that has been the most carefully restored.” The care and attention that have been shown to the Tappmeyer House are being shared with the city’s other historic sites: Lake School House, Clester Cabin and Hackmann Log Cabin. The interior of these buildings, unlike the Tappmeyer House, haven’t recently been available to visitors for tours. Because of their background, extra steps are taken to ensure that the buildings retain their historic integrity. This sometimes means that more costly measures must be considered in their restoration
to acquire the materials that will help them keep their appearance. “We’re going through a phase right now where we’re having architects and engineers evaluate the properties,” explained Jim Heins, Creve Coeur Director of Public Works. “We’re looking into whether or not we need to do a big renovation project on the cabins. We’re doing it for Lake School House, too. There’s constant upkeep that’s needed. We want to have a plan going forward as to how we’re going to maintain them. We want to be able to use them and open them up for tours again. ” Until their interiors become accessible again, the buildings can still be admired from the outside. Each property offers a different looking glass into the past lives of early Creve Coeur residents. The Lake School House was moved to Creve Coeur’s Lake School Park in 1966 from Hog Hollow Road in what is now Chesterfield. The one room schoolhouse is home to some relics that offer a glimpse of the past and how much school life has changed since it was built in 1897. “The old desks, chalkboards and books are still inside,” said Heins. “Everything is original and what was expected to be in a one room schoolhouse. It gives you a good perspective on how we’ve evolved.” Old pieces have been on display in both Clester Cabin and Hackmann Log Cabin as well, such as a genuine spinning wheel, a rope bed with a straw mattress and other period pieces and furniture. They will be viewable once the buildings are open to visitors again. In the meantime, their histories remain intriguing. Conway Park is home to Clester Cabin, both now and back when the cabin was originally built in the early 1800s. The building found a temporary resting place for a couple decades at Cabin Grove and Conway Road, just down the street from where it was constructed. It stayed there until 1994, when it was moved back to Conway Park. The cabin is an example of an American settler’s JULY 2017 | OUR TOWN | 13
(Above) The Hackmann Log Cabin has called Conway Park home since 1996, when it was moved from its original location on Olde Cabin Road. The Hackmann family lived in the home from 1842-1925. (Below) The Tappmeyer House, a 19th-century home that sheltered four generations of the Tappmeyer family on their property on Olive Boulevard, now rests in Millennium Park.
log cabin, built with squared, horizontal logs and comprised of just one room, a loft and a fireplace. Hackmann Log Cabin has called Conway Park home since 1996, when it was moved from its original location on Olde Cabin Road. The Hackmann family lived in the home from 1842-1925, and their name is now recognized by many residents of Creve Coeur and the surrounding communities. To preserve the history and ensure that these sites continue to be available to the community, the Creve Coeur Parks and Historic Preservation Committee relies on the efforts and enthusiasm of its volunteers. “We have a small committee and those folks have been very helpful,” explained Litzinger. “It’s a challenge to build up volunteers, but we’re working on it. Depending on how successful we are, we would love to be able to collaborate with some of the surrounding schools and other organizations to offer the buildings for different kinds of usage. I think there’s a lot to explore, it’s just a matter of building up a volunteer base and finding the right connections in the community – people who are excited about history as we are.” 14 | OUR TOWN | JULY 2017
There’s no question that the presence of these buildings and their former occupants echo throughout the lives of today’s residents, even in small ways. “These are truly original cabins and homesteads that were here in Creve Coeur,” said Heins. “These were the people who lived within the Creve
Coeur city limits way before it was Creve Coeur. They farmed and they lived off the land here. There are streets in the city named after these families, like Hackmann. Harold Dielmann, who was mayor of Creve Coeur, was part of the Hackmann family. The Clesters were another local family. These were the original homesteaders of this area. It’s really a very rich history of where Creve Coeur began.”
“There are a lot of people who live in this area who have grown up in this area,” said Litzinger. “You can’t believe how excited people are when they come to a place like Tappmeyer and they say, ‘Oh my goodness, I remember taking egg cartons to your grandfather’s house and having him fill the cartons with eggs right out of the hen coop.’ Or, ‘I remember when we used to drive by Olive Boulevard and we could see the hogs right there, and right across the street there was a big house.’ I think it provides a continuity for people who have lived here for a long time. Similarly, I think people who are new to the neighborhood appreciate that this community has real, serious roots. That there actually used to be people who farmed here and had a different kind of life here, who brought this community into being through some pretty hard times. I think it has something to offer for everybody.” For more information about these sites, Creve Coeur’s summer events or activities being hosted at the Tappmeyer House, visit creve-coeur.org or the Creve Coeur Parks and Recreation Facebook page.
OurThoughts
Big Box Blues N
ote to self: never send husband shopping for groceries! Addendum to note to self: especially when he has access to a big box store! There are two things men should not be entrusted with at the same time: car keys and access to the grocery store. My husband was going to the hardware store to salivate over tools, lumber and mulch, and decided to be helpful and offered to stop off at the grocery store too, since it was in the vicinity. I heard him plainly, but feigned deafness and avoided eye contact as I scrambled off and hid in the other room. Hopefully, he would forget the offer and leave. Besides, this would give him more time to spend in the plumbing section to ogle over PVC pipe fittings. No such luck, he found me in the closet wedged behind the heavy winter coats and further insisted on being helpful. Hmmm, why so accommodating? He must have broken one of my Elvis collector plates by warming up leftovers on it in the microwave, or perhaps he found my stash of emergency treats and wolfed down all the dark chocolatecovered cashews! Beast! “Okay, okay,” I said. “Give me a second to write a list.” He did not have time for such nonsense. Silly me, I forgot. Real men do not need lists and can store
BIGSTOCK
MOORE ON LIFE BY CINDY MOORE
everything in their brains. “Lists are for sissy-boys,” my unsissified man told me. “I got it all right up here,” he said, tapping a finger to the side of his head. I checked to see if anything was written on his scalp. Nothing. We were in trouble! I slowly went over the few basic needs: eggs, bread and mayonnaise. He rattled them back to me incorrectly. “No! Let me write a list. You’ve already forgotten.” “It’ll come back to me.” “Okay, but whatever you do…do not go to one of those mega-jumbo giant stuff stores. Go to the normal-sized stuff store!” I said as he shut the door and waved me off. Two hours later he lugged back a jar of pickles in a vat big enough to go hot tubbing in and ketchup in what looked like ten-gallon gas cans. He then hauled in a towering pyramid of TP and brought nothing on the verbal list I gave him. “What’s this? I just bought pickles and ketchup and we already have tons of TP. What are you planning on doing, re-wrapping all of Egypt’s mummies?” “Great idea!” he said. “Plus, if they get a serious bout of the runs…win, win!” Note to self: hide husband’s car keys in the bottom of pickle jar. JULY 2017 | OUR TOWN | 15
ALWAYS AN ADVENTURE BY AVALANCHE
BIGSTOCK
OurThoughts
The Joys & Sorrow of a Breakdown
A
motorcycle-riding acquaintance says he doesn’t mind breaking down on the road while piloting his antique bike. He says he always gets to meet the best people then, as only good people will take the opportunity to stop and help. Rude, selfish folks will never be bothered to take the time and effort to pull over and lend a hand to a stranger in need. While there are easier, and less distressing methods of socializing, he’s right – the quality of companionship met in this fashion is always of high quality. My own unplanned mechanical intermissions have frequently led to meeting some great folks. Once after filling my bike with contaminated gasoline, the motor quit at a driveway adjoining the highway leaving a small town. I walked up to the house, and was greeted by a fellow gearhead, who just happened to have a full-service hobby shop behind the house. The resident was apparently in an admirable tax bracket, as the shop was full of classic cars, motorcycles and an RV or two. A vehicle lift, and a small machine shop rounded out the amenities. He even had an oil drain facility so I could discard the bad fuel. He refused any payment and simply requested that I help another stranded soul when the occasion arose. I’ve been helped by members of a bike club in Alaska at 2 a.m. in the pouring rain. Once word of a stranded traveler had been passed, the crew emptied out of the clubhouse, picked up the bike, hauled it to a dry location, put Staci and me up for the night and helped to facilitate repairs. They only reluctantly accepted a donation, once I suggested it be used for shop tools and supplies. A friend related a tale of a flat tire occurring in a remote area of the Ozarks. A few questions posed to the locals resulted in a mechanic coming out on a Sunday afternoon. He hauled the bike on a flatbed truck, opened up his shop, fixed the tire and only charged $50 for most of his weekend afternoon. 16 | OUR TOWN | JULY 2017
All of these incidents happened in remote, rural areas. Mechanical failures in the big city require a fast phone call to an impersonal towing service, as help won’t voluntarily arrive. Fingers are crossed in the hope that service personnel arrive before the more aggressive vultures show up to feed. However, what to do when the breakdown is located where there are no people? Staci and I had been riding two-up for a couple of hours, on a very remote “shortcut” to another state. The road had a long dirt section, which tends to discourage most travelers from using the route. While still on the pavement, we crossed a cattle guard, and within less than a mile, the bike began wallowing around, with the steering and handling rapidly getting worse. I carefully slowed to a stop, and was greeted by the sound of the back tire going flat. Hmmm... The bike had a rudimentary, factory-issued tire repair kit, stowed underneath the seat. All the luggage had to come off the machine and the seat removed so I could get to work. The bike had to remain in the paved traffic lane, as the shoulder was too soft to support the machine. A plug was seated into the tread, and the tire was re-inflated (just barely) with a few CO2 cartridges. The plug held air, and we reloaded the luggage, and slowly made our way back to civilization, and a new back tire. Along the way, we checked out the cattle guard, and found a twisted, sharp edge of metal sticking up from the rails. We couldn’t pound it down, so I later made a phone call to the local road crew to notify them of the hazard. We didn’t meet any helpful souls on that trip. In fact, the entire breakdown and repair took place in the traffic lane on that roadway without anyone passing in either direction. While I’ve learned to have a certain amount of cautious optimism in the kindness of strangers, the CO2 cartridges have been replaced with an air pump; few things are more comforting in the back of beyond than a good tool kit.
2017 FORD RAPTOR
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OurThoughts
A Stylish Hit for the Off-Road Crowd With a base retail pricing structure of $49,520 (excluding shipping and destination chargers) Ford’s Raptor pickup truck is largely sought after by off-road truck enthusiasts everywhere. The extraordinary Raptor is positioned in a very unique category as it’s somewhat larger than the standard F-150 yet smaller in size than the Ford F-250 Super Duty pickup. The all-new 2017 version is the toughest, most capable Raptor ever. It further helps redefine a purpose-built, high-performance, offroad truck; manufactured in Michigan, alongside of their regular cab F-150s. Now in its second generation, the ‘17 Raptor spares no expense to build on the nameplate’s legacy by adding more power and torque, while reducing some 500 pounds of vehicle weight over the previous model. Much of the breakthrough is in weight reduction based on the truck’s extensive use of high strength/military grade aluminum alloy body panels. Additionally, custom-engineered, heavy-duty suspension shock absorbers and oversize special BFGoodrich tires further help this truck master most of its intended stomping grounds. Their innovative Terrain Management System tends to automatically transfer engine power where
needed. It’s entirely based on various driving conditions and the overall landscape. Raptor has a uniquely-sculpted outer body design with a robust flair about it. The overall profile mimics a desert racer that not only conveys a vision of performance, but has functional gains from its wider track, aggressive stance and flared wheel arches. In the simplest terms, it’s as if their F-150 truck was put on a diet of steroids and rebadged as a Raptor. At the rear, the duel oversized and prominent exhaust tail pipe outlets further help support Raptor’s grandiose identity. This Ford has some five percent improvements in aerodynamics. In part, this goal was achieved with the new body design, functional hood and fender vents and under body air mapping. For the serious off-roaders, there are auxiliary switches mounted overhead for easy reach and can be used to control aftermarket electronic equipment. Repositioning them above the rearview mirror was my idea, after sharing that thought with a Ford development engineer. The brawny look that Raptor possesses might just give the impression it drives “rough” on paved roads – it’s
just the opposite! Its drive characteristics are extremely nimble and civilized. The vehicle’s increased ride height also allows you to work the back roads and trails that much easier. The moment you see Raptor’s large footprint you would likely conclude that it must have an immense engine under its hood. That’s not the case. They use a 3.5-liter EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 that generates 450 horsepower and 510 lb.-ft. of torque. That’s quite a bit more performance than the previous generation, yet the 2017 model gets some 23 percent improvement in fuel economy. With the engine’s idle “stop/start” feature activated, it gets some 15-mpg city and 18-mpg highway with premium grade fuel. All of this engine power is channeled to the drive wheels through their new 10-speed automatic transmission. This computer controlled gearbox is engineered to help with EPA numbers and improved power distribution at all speeds. The all new advanced four-wheel-drive system seamlessly sends power where necessary for the best traction and optimized driving performance. For the original generation, Ford Raptor has retained just over 87 percent of its value. That’s extraordinary for a truck in this specialty segment. JULY 2017 | OUR TOWN | 17
CaringPartners
BANISH BITING SEASON
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Tips for eliminating backyard pests
As the weather gets warmer, mosquitoes can prevent homeowners from reaping the benefits of living life outside. According to a Harris Poll conducted on behalf of TruGreen, 85 percent of Americans say that mosquitoes limit their family’s outdoor activities during the months they’re most active. The same survey also found that nearly two-thirds of Americans are concerned about protecting themselves and their family from Zika or other mosquitoborne illnesses. A majority of respondents reported using bug spray on themselves and their family members to combat mosquitoes outdoors at home. Although it’s the leading preventative measure, still only half say it is most effective at preventing mosquitoes from biting. Depending on where you live, the mosquito biting season lasts 5-7 months. If spray isn’t adequate to combat the mosquitoes at your home, it may be necessary to take additional measures. These tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the pest control experts at TruGreen can help combat mosquitoes outside of the home: Remove standing water. Mosquitoes 18 | OUR TOWN | JULY 2017
generally lay eggs near water, so once a week take time to dump anything that may hold water in the yard. This includes buckets, kiddie pools and birdbaths. Don’t overlook items like toys, planters and flowerpot saucers. For containers intended to hold water, like cisterns or rain barrels, regularly check that the lid is secure so mosquitoes can’t gain access. A finely woven mesh is a good alternative if there is no lid. If you can’t cover the container and won’t be drinking from it, use a larvicide to treat the water. Be wary of unexpected reservoirs. Natural features such as shrubbery and tree stumps can also collect water, and they may be more difficult to remedy. Keep dense shrubs thinned and pruned. Increasing the air flow can make these areas less attractive. If removing a tree stump is impractical, a professional can guide you in proper treatment. Apply a broad-application pest eliminator. Use an outdoor insect spray or professional service to kill mosquitoes in areas where they rest all over the yard. A professionally applied treatment such as TruGreen Mosquito Defense targets pests where they live, and the company’s professionally trained specialists use an innovative mosquito
control formula to treat all areas of the yard where mosquitoes hide, including trees, shrubs, mulched areas and all types of ground cover. “Mosquitoes are a nuisance for many of our customers, inhibiting the time they can spend enjoying outdoor activities,” said John Bell, board certified entomologist and TruGreen regional technical manager. “Most people protect against mosquitoes by using a repellant or citronella candles, but these methods do not target the places mosquitoes hide including low-hanging limbs, ornamental foliage, potted plants and ground cover. The TruGreen Mosquito Defense treatment program targets these places, eradicating the mosquito population in homeowners’ yards and allowing people to spend more time living life outside.” Make regular rounds to spot trouble. Humans are creatures of habit, and that can mean certain areas of the yard receive much less traffic than other spots. Take time each week to tour the entire yard and keep an eye out for potential pest problems, including standing water in containers or low spots in the ground. For more year-round lawn care tips, visit TruGreen.com/mosquito.
OurLifestyle
WOMEN CALLING THE SHOTS IN HOLLYWOOD There’s a particular number of directors I have become quite a fan of whose collective work spans from the 1980s through today, including last month’s release of “Wonder Woman.” My thoughts are simply this, I wish I got to see them direct more films than they were able to deliver – at least as many as their male counterparts. Here are some of those women behind the cameras today – including some that have been around longer than many of us probably know. PATTY JENKINS The director of last month’s “Wonder Woman” is on her way to becoming one of the most sought-after directors in Hollywood thanks to the huge blockbuster and critical success. Patty Jenkins has more than proven that she has an eye for serious action on the big screen on par with any other big name directors out there (mostly male). Her resume is mostly credited work on television, and yet another notable film she directed 15 years ago was the Academy-Award-winning “Monster” with Charlize Theron. To go from that film to “Wonder Woman” is the resume builder any director could ask for. I’m looking forward to see the next film Jenkins signs up for. KATHRYN BIGALOW She’s a director that’s been around since the early eighties with movies like “The Loveless” (1981) to her most recent Academy-Award-nominated success “Zero Dark Thirty” (2012). She has made testosteroneheavy films, like the time when she became the first – and currently the only – woman to receive the Academy Award for Best Director for the Best-Picture-winning “The Hurt Locker” (2008). She’s also helmed the Keanu Reeves cult favorite “Point Break” (1991) and the Harrison Ford led “K19: The Widowmaker” (2002). Thrillers are her thing and probably always will be. She’s even directed a very unique western/horror vampire flick,
BY BRIAN GUERRO
the overlooked “Near Dark” (1987) featuring one of the nastiest of bloodsuckers played by none other than the late Bill Paxton. Her next film – due to be released next month – is the true story about the 1967 police raid that resulted in one of history’s biggest citizen uprisings in the U.S. called “Detroit.” PENNY MARSHALL She’s an actress who occasionally has directed some successful films, including the one that paved the way for Tom Hanks’ first Academy Award nomination. That movie was “Big.” But she might be most famous for directing the 1993 film about the women’s pro baseball league during the World War II era called “A League of Their Own.” Marshall has proven she can handle a large memorable cast of characters, bringing the best out of everyone in the cast. Marshall also shows us she has a natural eye for the “dirt in the skirt” action on the diamond giving this film everything you could ask for. As a bonus, one of the most famous lines in film was produced here. “There’s no crying in baseball!” NORA EPHRON Her writing brought her fame in the RobReiner-directed comedy “When Harry Met Sally,” but she used that as a launching pad to take on directing herself. She helmed films such as “You’ve Got Mail” (1998) and “Julia & Julia” (2009) among others, but her most famed film has to be the 1993 romantic comedy “Sleepless in Seattle.” It is arguably one of the most referred to movie romances ever made, featuring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan as the two leads who share no screen time together for about ninety five percent of the film – which is brilliant. The dialogue between all the characters in this film is flawlessly witty and naturally hilarious hitting all the strengths that made Ephron one of the best in the business.
JULY 2017 | OUR TOWN | 19
OurLifestyle
ADD SIZZLE TO YOUR A dazzling fireworks display may be the grand finale for your celebration, but you can make your mouthwatering menu a close second with these ideas to light up your Fourth of July. From bold burgers to crisp salads and sweet sides, give your guests plenty of reason to feel festive all day long. And don’t forget to add a little indulgence for all ages with a DIY dessert bar. Find more recipes perfect for the Fourth of July at culinary.net.
Bold Honey Barbecue Burger
Recipe courtesy of the National Honey Board | Servings: 4-6
Total time: 35 minute | Servings: 4
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Honey Baked Beans
Ingredients: 4 slices bacon, diced 1/2 cup chopped onion 4 1/2 cups cooked navy beans (or 3 cans, 15 ounces each) 1/2 cup honey 1/2 cup ketchup 1 tablespoon prepared mustard 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 20 | OUR TOWN | JULY 2017
Directions: Heat oven to 350 F. Saute bacon and onion until onion is tender; combine with remaining ingredients in shallow 2-quart, oven-safe baking dish. Cover with lid or aluminum foil and bake 30 minutes. Uncover and bake 45 minutes longer.
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef 1/2 cup chopped green onions 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper 3-4 tablespoons steak seasoning 4 hamburger buns 1/2 stick melted butter 3/4 cup barbecue sauce 1 tablespoon honey 4 slices American cheese 8 slices thick bacon, cooked until crispy 8 frozen onion rings 4 slices tomato fresh lettuce
sides of each patty with steak seasoning. Cover and chill. (Patties can be made several hours in advance.)
Directions: Combine ground beef, green onions, garlic powder and cayenne pepper; form into four patties. Sprinkle both
Serve each burger on buttered bun topped with two slices bacon, two onion rings, honey barbecue sauce, lettuce and tomato
Brush buns with melted butter; set aside. In small bowl, mix barbecue sauce with honey; set aside. Heat grill to medium-high heat. Grill burgers to internal temperature of 160 F, about 4-6 minutes per side. Two minutes before burgers are finished, grill buns, butter-side down, until golden brown. Place cheese slices on burgers to melt.
OurLifestyle Grilled Hawaiian Chicken and Tropical Coleslaw Total time: 1 hour, 25 minute | Serves: 6
Ingredients: 1/3 cup ketchup 1/3 cup packed dark brown sugar 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce 1/4 cup pineapple juice 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided, plus additional for brushing grill 1 1/2 tablespoons rice vinegar 4 teaspoons fresh garlic 1 tablespoon fresh ginger 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil 3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus additional, to taste salt, to taste
1 3/4 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, chopped into 1 1/4-inch cubes 1 large red onion, diced into 1 1/4-inch pieces 1 1/2 large green peppers, diced into 1 1/4-inch pieces 3 cups fresh cubed pineapple
Directions: In mixing bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger and sesame oil. Stir in pepper and season with salt, if desired.
Heat grill to 400 F.
While chicken marinates, prepare coleslaw. In medium bowl, toss together coleslaw mix, red pepper, pineapple, almonds and coleslaw dressing. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Serve up a sundae bar
Drizzle remaining olive oil over red onion, bell pepper and pineapple; toss. Season red onion and bell pepper with salt and pepper then thread red onion, bell pepper, pineapple and chicken onto skewers until all chicken is used. Brush grill grates with olive oil then place skewers on grill. Grill 5 minutes then brush along tops with 1/4 cup marinade. Rotate to opposite side and brush remaining marinade on opposite side; grill about 4 minutes, or until chicken registers 165 F in center on instant read thermometer. Serve skewers warm with coleslaw.
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Place chicken in gallon-sized re-sealable bag. Reserve 1/2 cup marinade in refrigerator then pour remaining marinade over chicken. Seal bag and refrigerate 1-2 hours. Soak 10 wooden skewer sticks in water 1 hour.
Coleslaw: 1 package (14 ounces) coleslaw mix 1 cup diced red pepper 1 cup diced pineapple 1/2 cup slivered almonds 1/2 cup Litehouse Coleslaw dressing
The only thing better than a dish of cold ice cream on a hot summer day is the chance to make it all your own. Let guests create their own dishes of deliciousness with a DIY sundae bar. Start with a healthy supply of cups, spoons and towels to mop up inevitable drips then fill the bar with irresistible options like these:
A sampling of ice creams, like vanilla, chocolate and strawberry • Fresh sliced fruit • Crushed candies and cookies • Sauces (chocolate, caramel and something fruity, too) • Assorted nuts • Crunchy favorites like crumbled cones or salty pretzels • Coconut (raw and toasted) • Whipped cream JULY 2017 | OUR TOWN | 21
InDepth
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Open for fitness Maryland Heights Community Center hosts grand opening BY NICHOLAS ELMES
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Over 1,600 people had the chance to explore the new $30 million Maryland Heights Community Center during its grand opening celebration on May 20, and Maryland Heights Director of Parks and Recreation Tracey Anderson said they liked what they saw. “The overall excitement was very positive,” she said. “It was a huge success. You cannot imagine the amenities from the outside. You have no idea until you come in about the vast amount of space that we have and all of the amenities that we offer.” Those amenities range from unique aquatic experiences to a giant basketball and volleyball space, from brand new exercise equipment to an indoor track with great views, from a multiroom senior center to a self-contained preschool and play room. Visitors during the grand opening were greeted by a bright, spacious two-story foyer backdropped with a glass wall offering views into the center’s 12,800 square-foot basketball and volleyball court area.
That court features 12 basketball hoops, three pickleball courts, and two volleyball nets. “We have open gym time where you can do anything you like in the gym or we have specific scheduled times where you can come in and play volleyball,” said Anderson, noting that pickleball was also very popular. “We are doing open play times right now but hopefully by the fall we will actually begin to have scheduled leagues
InDepth
whether it is volleyball or basketball or pickleball.” Anderson said a special scavenger hunt designed for the grand opening led visitors throughout the facility where they could participate in different activities to win prizes and learn more about what the facility offered. Visitors got to see the new indoor aquatic center which features a main pool with three lap lanes, an indoor zip line which lets riders drop into the pool, a drop slide, a climbing wall, a spray area for little kids, a circular area that will be used for aqua Zumba and water aerobics classes and a current channel where members can walk with or against the current for exercise. Above the pool, the center features an open weight room and fitness area with expansive views of both the aquatic center and the parking lot. Equipment in the fitness center includes treadmills, ellipticals, power mills, recumbent bikes, stationary bikes, an interactive strike trainer, various weight machines, free weights, a rope trainer, a
power rack, rowing machines, cycling bikes, an upper body ergometer, NuStep, a four stack jungle, and various bands, balls, etc. Surrounding the fitness center are rooms for group classes, including a mind-body studio and a group room which are used for yoga, taichi, PX90, Zumba, and a variety of other fitness courses. Anderson said one of the most popular features of the center is a secondstory indoor track. “Seven laps around it is one mile and we have people running on it and walkers of all ages and abilities,” said Anderson. While the about twothirds of the space in the new center is focused on physical fitness, the other third provides space for people of all ages to gather and learn. The first floor provides a new preschool facility for children aged two to five. The preschool facility also features an outdoor play area with separate playground equipment for different age groups and a soft, bouncy rubber flooring. The downstairs area also features a small dance studio for dance classes and a large event space which can hold 425 in theater style seating and has a catering kitchen attached and an outdoor patio area with wing walls to buffer noise from the nearby highway. Ander-
son said staff used that space during the grand opening to host a variety of food for visitors. “It was really great because people actually got to see the room in use,” she said. “We already have wedding receptions, graduations, and birthday parties scheduled.” Senior citizens will find their home on the second floor of the left side of the new community center where there is a senior lounge and a multi-purpose room. The second floor will also provide space for administrative offices. Anderson said the center had been open for about six weeks before the grand opening, noting that the community response had been wonderful during that time and that many area residents had purchased memberships. She said memberships could be purchased on a monthly or annual basis with reduced rates for residents and people who worked in Maryland Heights ranging from $150 for seniors and youth per year to $450 per year for a family of four. Non-resident rates range from $180 for youth or seniors per year to $540 for a family of four. She added that some seniors may have insurance plans that will cover the cost of membership. JULY 2017 | OUR TOWN | 23
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July Independence Day
Paper shredding event From 9 a.m. to noon, Maryland
Heights residents may bring up to ten file-sized boxes for the paper shredding/secure document destruction event. A “file-sized” or “bankers” box is approximately 12”W x 15”L x 10”H and roughly the size of a box of office printer paper or equal to the capacity of two paper grocery bags. This event is for residents only; please no businesses. On that date, enter the parking lot from the Dorsett entrance and follow the directional signs. This is a free event. For more information, contact Gabby Macaluso at gmac@marylandheights.com or 314-738-2204.
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Summer concert The Creve Coeur Recreation Department is
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Hot dog party It’s National Hot Dot Day, so what would be
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Summer concert This concert featuring Fanfare is located at
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Parents’ Day
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National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day
proud to offer its fourth summer of free family-friendly concerts in Millennium Park at 2 Barnes West Drive. Pack a picnic basket or purchase a snack from a food truck as you enjoy live music under the stars. Bring chairs or blankets for seating. All shows begin at 6 p.m., but come early to get a good seat. This will be a night of acoustic driven music featuring your favorite classic rock and blues tunes with a touch of bluegrass and country. The Maple Jam Band is known for their outstanding three-part harmonies and will be sure to have you tapping your feet all night.
better than having a hot dog party? The Maryland Heights Parks and Recreation Department will be firing up the grill and everyone is invited for a relaxing evening; and of course, a hot dog. Each person will receive a hot dog, bag of chips and drink. Backyard games will be set up for you to enjoy. If paying in advance, the cost is $1.50 per person. If paying the day of, cost is $2 per person.
Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park at the Tremayne Shelter located at Creve Coeur Park Picnic Site 1, 13725 Marine Ave. in Maryland Heights from 6 to 9 p.m. and will feature pre-show entertainment from 6 to 6:45 p.m. The band will perform from 7 - 9 p.m. Inclement weather cancellations will be posted on www.RainedOut. com.