Impulse Magazine Fall 2009

SPECIAL DINING ISSUE

impulse 14 Top

Fall/Winter ‘09

Restaurants

Reviewed Best Dressed

11 Stylish Women

Bride’s Guide

designer touches

Peek Inside the Home of a Designer

◄Shrimp Fettucine from Cafe Mosaic in Washington, MO

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616 N. Hwy. 47, Warrenton • (636) 456-8115 or toll free 800-893-9980 fourseason@centurytel.net - www.4seasontrips.com

WE ALSO CATER...

West Allen Grill offers a wide variety of full service on and off-site catering. We handle everything from weddings, corporate events and social events to boxed lunches.

9 West Allen Street Wentzville, MO 63385 (636) (636) 3 327-3030 27-30

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Limit one per table. Expires 12/30/09

fall/winter

09

◄Quesadilla Grande from El Ranchito in Union, MO.

contents 07 PICK YOUR PARADISE: JAMAICA 08 08 08 10 11 11 14 18 19 20

Travel agent Diane Picht explains why Jamaica would be a good choice for your next vacation

A SMALL GETAWAY

Tips for creating a beautiful and fun space for little imaginations to grow

A DESIGNER’S HOME

Inspiration from designer Erin Gaugh’s home

STYLES & TRENDS

-Glasses are hot accessories -Tabra Tunoa jewelry now available

RECIPE FOR GREAT HAIR

Tips from salon owner Tina Parrish

WINE TASTING SECRETS

Learn the best way to experience a wine tasting

REIKI MASSAGE

Master Denise Albritton shares the technique

BEST DRESSED

11 local women with style and grace. Photos by Alex Brown

LOCAL HEALTH CARE

Washington, MO Facility Undergoes $30.4 Million Expansion

WAKEBOARDER MAKES WAVES

Blake Hale exels in the sport and in life

INTERVIEW WITH FIVE AUTHORS

Get to know authors Dan Neill, Tammy Denton, Daryl Bradshaw, Steve Ortwerth

MaryAnn Holmes, and

Impulse Magazine, Vol. 2, Issue 2, is published quarterly by Focus News, LLC, P.O. Box 32066, St. Louis, MO 63132.

23 24

ESSENTIAL OILS

Licensed Massage Therapist Jack Val Spencer shares ideas

RESTAURANT REVIEWS

impulse MAGAZINE

14 restaurants you’ll want to try

51 OPENING A RESTAURANT?

A CPA offers finacial advice on getting started

52 MAY YOUR SNACKS BE HEALTHY 53 54 55 56

Rose Ottinger, Registered Dietician, submits recipes and tips

LOCAL RECIPES

Publisher/Editor: Tamara See

Dr. H. Jerry Paz shares a family favorite.

THE DIFFERENCE IS IN THE DETAILS

McCoy-Blossom Funeral Home offers years of experience.

KID’S CORNER

Graphic Design: Tamara See Sara Henderson Alex Brown

Children’s fashion. Photos by Sarah Crowder.

BRIDE’S GUIDE

-Why Buy When You Can Rent?

- Custom Jewelry is Uniquely You -Flowers Your Way on Your Day - Choosing the Right Diamond -Finding the Perfect Dress -Get Pampered by the Pros -New Chic Boutique

▼Pan Seared Crab Cakes from Basket Case Deli & Cafe in Washington, MO

Advertising Executives: Maqsud Mir, 314-713-2400 Jessica Schanuel, 636-297-0053 Shana Allen, 636-358-7103 Jill Knapp, 314-610-5762 Photographers: Alex Brown Sarah Crowder

IMPULSE MAGAZINE Published by FOCUS NEWS, LLC P.O. BOX 32066 ST. LOUIS, MO 63132 (314) 713-2400 impulsemag@yahoo.com

publisher’s note In this issue, our staff logged many enjoyable hours photographing and reviewing some of the best restaurants in our area. Truly experiencing food requires all the senses. We strived to share the experience of choice delectable dishes at each of the fourteen restaurants reviewed with words and photos, but we hope you are blessed with the opportunity to try each of these restaurants for yourself (page 24).

If you are thinking of opening your own restaurant, a CPA offers tips on getting started (page 51). If you’d rather cook at home, registered dietician Rose Ottinger offers helpful advice for healthy eating (page 52) and well-traveled dentist Dr. Paz provides a favorite recipe (page 53).

We feature eleven stylish women, nominated by their peers for their beauty and grace. Each of these lovely ladies are beautiful from the inside out--they give much to their communities, families, and friends. To get to know the women behind the wardrobes, we asked them to answer twenty questions or share some style advice with our readers.

If you’ve ever wondered what makes writers tick, you won’t want to miss our feature on five upand-coming authors (page 20), who share what inspires them and even some new material.

We share a children’s fashion shoot (that was even more fun that it looks) by Sarah Crowder (page 55), a peak into a designer’s home (page 8), and tips for creating fun spaces for children (page 8).

You can find a recipe for great hair (page 10), reasons Jamaica might be a great fit for your next vacation (page 10), and get to know Blake Hale, a 16-year old wakeboarder that is making waves on the water and in life (page 19).

You’ll want to read about Patients First Health Care’s $30.4 million expansion (page 18) and tips on everything from accessories to wine tasting.

In this economy, it is important to shop locally whenever you can. Our bride’s guide (page 56) showcases expert advice from and information about area bridal vendors that would be happy to help you make your wedding day dreamy.

Enjoy!

Tamara L. See

PICK YOUR PARADISE: Jamaica By: Diane Picht, owner of Four Seasons Travel and Cruises Frequently our clients will call and want to go on a tropical vacation but they really don’t know where they want to go and do not know much about the islands. To help make a difficult decision easier, we at Four Season Travel have decided to help you “pick your paradise.” One island to consider is Jamaica.

What an unforgettable experience--once you go to Jamaica you will want to return!

The distinct resort areas of Montego Bay, Negril, Ocho Rios, Runaway Bay and the lush southern coastline make Jamaica full of unique personalities that combine for an electric mix of people, music and fabulous scenery which has made it the Caribbean’s most popular vacation destination and it’s all waiting there for you just three hours away!

From the convenience and excitement of Montego Bay to the natural beauty of Ocho Rios and the laid-back atmosphere of Negril, the island of Jamaica has a charm that keeps vacationers coming back.

Home to many music festivals where you can learn more about the local culture, customs and the birthplace of Bob Marley, reggae music keeps couples dancing the night away. Come to Jamaica and experience all the fun!

Drive along the north coast and visit Ocho Rios for shopping or lunch and continue on to Dunn’s River Falls to see the spectacular 700 foot cascading waterfalls. Negril the “Capital of Casual” is on the western tip of the island and is best known for its gorgeous white sand beaches and amazing sunsets.

Whether you want a peaceful relaxing atmosphere, swim with the dolphins, enjoy a sunset catamaran cruise, tour a banana plantation, explore the jungle or maybe you’re the adventurous type and want to go ziplining, Jamaica has something for everyone.

The average year round temperature is 82 degrees so pack your swim suit and join the fun. . . Jamaica is for everyone!

702 N. Hwy 47, Warrenton Mo 63383 www. luminescesalon.com

•

(636)456-7082 FALL/WINTER 2009

impulse

A Small Getaway: Tips for creating a beautiful and fun space for little imaginations to grow.

Erin Gaugh, an interior stylist and mother, from rural wine-country in Augusta, MO, had a vision of a charming Victorian cottage nestled in her backyard betwixt the fairy-petal rose bushes and the limestone patio in exchange for the commonplace plastic, orange and yellow play pieces they had been using.

A local tech school builds simple playhouses for an end-term project. Erin contacted the school and ordered a playhouse to be built for the couple’s two young children. A year later, the mini-dwelling was complete.

Erin and her husband, Robert, were scheduled to pick up the house Labor Day weekend. Excitement was sky high, and the concluding phone call was made to finalize remaining details. Then came the disappointment. The house had been sold by mistake. That’s when the school kindly offered to build a miniature replica of our 110 year old German Victorian complete with a mansard roof, wooden front porch, dormered windows, and seethrough cupola.

The couple picked up the new house over spring break and decided it needed a few designer touches.

To make things “just right,” Erin embellished the exterior with a few charming additions to make it their own. She explains, “It’s important that children feel worthy, feel they have something to escape to, something to call their own. They need a sacred place to let their imaginations and creativity blossom. It could be a darling playhouse or simple tent made with sheets.”

In between nap schedules, she and a friend, added a two-paneled recycled door that was cut down to size, a reclaimed doorknob sprayed gold, a pair of flea-market shutters also cut down and sprayed black to match the main cottage. The ultimate recycling project! Robert also hung a newly painted cornflower blue chandelier in the cupola that was destined for the resale shop. Just to go the extra mile, Erin hunted architectural shops and antique stores searching for the perfect gingerbread for underneath the roof line. “I finally found what I was impulse

looking for at Lowe’s! Who knew?!” With such a beautiful place in its very own space, it needed a better surrounding. The decorating duo had some limestone leftover from an old foundation they had dug out, so they decided to create a circular patio for the children’s patio set. Why not?

What’s next? The child’s garden and sand-box. Hmmm…..the possibilities.

Photos by Sarah Crowder - Clothing by Sweet Petunia.

A Designer’s Home

Styles & Trends

glasses are hot accessories By: Barbara Cashion, Here’s 2 Eyes owner There has never been a better time to dress up or accessorize your wardrobe.

For men, there was a time when suits had only one popular lapel width or vest was the popular style. For women, one particular hem length was all the rage.

Not anymore. Along with varying suit styles and hem lengths all being popular at the same time, all frame styles and colors are now popular. Currently, plastic frames and metal frames are equally in style as well as several shapes and sizes.

One of the trends we are currently seeing a lot of is the temple (side piece) with a lot of texture. This could be a temple that has a design cut out, a mixture of colors to give the appearance of marble, bling embedded, or the look of lace enclosed in an otherwise clear temple. With all this variation in frame design, think of matching your clothing.

Now, more than ever before, you have you have a reason to have several pairs of glasses.

One thing that all designers agree on is that an outfit or design is not complete until you add the accessories.

Think of your glasses not just as something you have to wear to see, but also as an expression of you and to coordinate a look with an outfit.

Erin Gaugh operates So, what is your Vintage Charm Interiors style? in Augusta, MO. She can be reached at 636-4828015.

now available The beautiful artisan jewelry line of Tabra Tunoa is now available at Classic Nails of Warrenton. “I am proud to provide this exceptional and unique line of one of a kind charms, connector bracelets and earrings,” said Classic Nails owner Lori Houdyshell. “Tabra, an internationally renowned artist since the 1970’s has studied design in Spain, Mexico and Costa Rica. Today she draws inspiration from her home in Bali.”

The Tabra line is brimming with semi-precious stones, sterling silver, beads, carvings and ancient materials. Lori has a large selection of ‘Tabra’ one of a kind charms and regularly updates her stock with new designs. “Tabra’s designs are adored and collected by women worldwide. She donates a percentage of her proceeds to the education and care of women in third world countries,” Lori added.

Classic Nails is more than an upscale salon. Lori carries a full line of fashionable Jimmy Crystal sunglasses, readers, watches and earrings. Also available is a full line of RX Systems skin care products. Adding to the luxury of the salon is massage therapist Maria Acton. Maria’s business, Rejuvenation Massage has become a popular destination for anyone seeking relaxation.

“We invite you to come in and view this beautiful collection for yourself to find a piece that is totally unique and one of a kind you!” she said.

Classic Nails can be contacted at 636-4568100 and is located at 902 C Hwy M in Warrenton. To contact Rejuvenation Massage please call 636-456-8127.

Recipe for great hair By: Tina Parrish, owner of Luminesce Salon Aveda At first when I was told that this issue of impulse was going to be restaurant and food related I wanted to be in alignment with the topic at hand so here it is.

When a salon guest asks me how they can keep their hair healthy it is not always an easy fix. At times it goes deeper so today we are going to cover nutritionally how to grow great hair and what is essential to keep hair that is grown healthy.

Growing Great Hair Nutritional tips: Diet-The quality of your hair is a reflection of what you eat, always a well rounded diet balanced meals.

Exercise- This will stimulate blood supply to all cells which will help to nourish, regenerate and repair.

Tips- Cut back on caffeine they are stimulants that depleting the body of water and they also hamper absorption of minerals crucial for healthy hair.

Drink mineral water 6-8 glasses a day are recommended.

Limit your alcohol consumption to an occasional drink.

FYI- for those of you taking contraceptives they deplete the body of B-complex and zinc so if you have noticed a difference in your hair since taking it you may consider a supplement.

Hair loss may occur if the body is lacking in B vitamins especially B6, biotin, folic acid and minerals magnesium, sulfur, and zinc.

In some cases vitamin supplements have stimulated hair growth.

Essential fatty acids like flaxseed oil, primrose oil, and salmon oil improve hair texture by preventing the hair from being dry and brittle.

B-Vitamins Foods rich in B vitamins include beans, peas, carrots, cauliflower, soy beans, nutritional yeast, bran, nuts, and eggs.

Take a vitamin B complex and supplement it with the following

additional B-vitamins for the best results: Vitamin B3, Pantothenic acid (vitamin B50, and Pyridoxine (vitamin B6).

Biotin- Biotin is needed for healthy hair and skin and may even prevent hair loss in some. Good sources of biotin come in supplement form and foods including Brewer’s yeast, brown rice, bulgur, green peas, lentils, oats, soybeans, sunflower seeds, and walnuts.

Vitamin C- Vitamin C aids in improving scalp circulation. It is important to maintain capillaries that carry blood follicles.

Vitamin E - Vitamin E is believed to stimulate hair growth since the health is tied to the immune health. It is also believed to enhance the immune function.

Zinc - Zinc also enhances the immune function.

Keeping Great Hair Protein and Moisture - Protein and moisture are the foundation of beautiful

FALL/WINTER 2009

healthy hair. However balancing the two can be a challenge at times.

FYI- Oils do not moisturize, they coat the outside of the hair to give shine which will give you the illusion of moisture.

Protein Hair is made up of about 70% keratin protein by nature. Protein is what gives the hair structure and strength.

Moisture Hair needs moisture to maintain its elasticity, or ability to stretch. Since water is the ultimate moisturizer, water based products are the best for really getting the greatest moisture benefit.

Moisturizers are simply products that are water based and nourish you hair deep within the strand.

Good moisturizers will not contain cheap fillers ingredients like petrolatum, mineral oil, or lanolin.

I would avoid these products. You will not find the moisture you need in these. Petrolatum and mineral oils are sealants and they will seal out moisture your hair is craving One of the most difficult tasks to over come is to keep the moisture in the hair after you have treated it.

The scenario normally will go like this your hair has been compromised in the past and your hair is feeling dry and brittle so you purchase a good conditioner. You go home and you apply it , it feels great for a while then it doesn’t seem to be doing its job. Well what is happening is the outer layer of your hair is open from the previous damage when you put the conditioner in it feels good but because the outer layer is open nothing is keeping it from falling out.

So yes you need the conditioner to add the moisture however you need a product to seal it so the moisture you just put in the hair shaft stays where you want it. Some time products give you a false since of security when your hair feels slick and it has been filled with petroleum based products that really are depleting your hair of moisture.

So the moral of the story is to always consult with your salon professional to determine what your hair is lacking. They should be able to get you on a regimen that will best suit your needs.

10 impulse

heaLING ENERGY Therapy Offered

by Reiki Master

Wines at Missouri Wine and Gift in Warrenton, MO. Photo by Alex Brown

Wine

Tasting Secrets By: Madison Greene Have you ever been to a wine tasting? Most people, when they think about wine tasting, imagine people sipping, swilling and spitting their wine. Believe me there is a lot more to sampling wines than that. At a wine tasting it is important to have the right wine in the right glass.

First, if the wine is chilled, then you need to hold the glass by its stem and remember not to touch the bowl at all. Wines that are not chilled and which can be served at room temperature will require picking the glass by its bowl and holding it while cupped in the palm of your hand with the stem being held between your two middle fingers.

Next you need to remember while you are enjoying wine tasting, to hold the glass at a bit of an angle and keep the glass at a distance most suitable, such as at an arm’s length.

Study The Color And Clarity Of Wine Now that you have the mechanics of holding the wine glass right, your next step in wine tasting is to study the color of the wine as well as its clarity. Although you may be conversant with wines that are only red, white and pink in color, be sure to know that there are many different colors as well that will include colors such as green, gold, yellow, purple and in some instances, even black.

And, from the clarity of the wine, you can be sure of what the age of the wine is - with young wines being more see-through types while cloudiness will indicate that something is amiss with

Denise Albritton, LMT, owner of Relax-U and a Reiki Master, is doing the traditional style of an ancient form of energy healing called Reiki. Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing.

“The technique is administered by “Laying on Hands” and is based on the idea that an unseen “life force energy” Denise Albritton, LMT flows through us and is what causes us to be alive. If one’s “life force energy” is low, then we are more likely to get sick or feel stress, and if it is high, we are more capable of being happy and healthy,” Denise said. “Reiki is a simple, natural and safe method of healing and self-improvement that everyone can use.

It has been effective in helping virtually every known illness and always creates a beneficial effect. It also works in conjunction with all other medical or therapeutic techniques to relieve side effects and promote recovery.”

A treatment feels like a wonderful, glowing radiance that flows through and around you. Reiki treats the whole person including physical, emotional and internal-self, creating feelings of peace, security and wellbeing.

Relax-U offers a 30 minute Reiki session for only $20.

They have two locations to serve you: 28487 Hwy W in Warrenton, MO, and 426 E. 5th St. in Washington, MO, at the Washington Healing Arts Center. Visit their website at: www. washingtonhealingartscenter.com Visit Relax-U’s website at: www.relaxu.sitesvp.com for updates, bodywork techniques and future classes offered.

“In February 2010, I am teaching an Intro to Reiki and the Angels class to help develop awareness of the benefits of Reiki and Angel therapy. Space is limited, call to reserve your seat in class. The classes are offered in both Warrenton and Washington,” she explained.

New in December, a group will be created for those who are interested in New Age Healing techniques and ideas of self-development. Topics will be discussed in a round table format that will be very informative and relaxing. Teachings of Dr. Wayne Dyer, Eckhart Tolle, Dr. Doreen Virtue, etc. will be part of discussions. Gatherings will be at both locations in Warrenton and Washington. Call Denise for dates and times.

“We look forward to welcoming new clients and expanding the horizon of knowledge to all of you who wish to create a more peaceful, relaxing and wholesome life for yourself,” Denise said. “We welcome any questions and comments. Same day appointments may be available, call us today. Have a wonderful and healthy day!”

For more information, call 636-359-0225.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 54 FALL/WINTER 2009

11 impulse

Best Dressed

2009

The staff of Impulse Magazine sought to find the best dressed women in our area. Each of these lovely ladies was nominated by her peers then selected by our advisory board. Not only do these women have phenomenal style, but they have sparkling personalities, are generous to their communities, and exemplify beauty from the inside out. To get to know the women behind the wardrobes, we asked them to either answer twenty probing questions or share a piece of fashion advice with our readers.

(Photos by Alex Brown)

Q

1: What is your idea of perfect happiness? 2. What do you most value in friends? 3. Which talent would you like to have?

4. What words would your friends use to describe you best? 5. Who influences your sense of style? 6. When and where were you happiest? 7. Where do you shop for fun? 8. Who are your favorite writers? 9. What’s on your Ipod? 10. What is the trait you deplore in yourself? 11. What is the trait you most deplore in others? 12. What is your greatest fear? 13. What do you consider your greatest achievement? 14. What is the quality you most like in a man? 15. What is the quality you most like is a woman? 16. On what occasion do you lie? 17. What is your greatest regret? 18. Which living person do you most admire? 19. Where would you like to live? 20. What is your most treasured possession?

Ashley Cobb

1. My idea of perfect happiness isn’t lying on the beach on a beautiful island, it’s spending time with my amazing family and wonderful boyfriend, appreciating a homecooked meal and enjoying one another.

2. I value their honesty and strength. I admire them because they inspire me to discover more, to be more, and to do more.

3. I’d love to be able to dance, especially to swing music.

4. Probably sweet, stylish, and a little crazy sometimes.

5. I enjoy reading In Style, but honestly I buy what I think looks stylish and unique. I don’t really have a certain style. I just like to be myself.

6. Probably on a trip I took to Manhattan about four years ago. New York is an extraordinary place.

7. For clothing I love New York and Company, but for fun I love Kirkland’s.

8. John Grogan – “Marley & Me”; Edgar Allan Poe 9 . The Fray; Led Zeppelin; Black Eyed Peas 10. I can be very naive, which is good in some instances, risky in others.

11. I absolutely despise people who look at the world negatively. When I walk by someone and say hello, and they do not respond or even flash a smile, I am disappointed.

12. Not being able to complete all of my goals in life 13. Buying my own home 14. Compassion 15. Perseverance 16. Lie? Maybe when I’m trying not to hurt someone’s feelings 17. I try not to regret anything in my life. Everything I’ve learned has led me to where I am now. If I could have done anything differently, I would have spent more time with my Grandmother before she passed away last April.

Family is everything, never to be taken for granted.

18. My Dad – no question

19. Montana – it’s gorgeous 20. The China dishes I received from my Grandmother who recently passed.

She received them over 50 years ago when she married my grandfather.

FALL/WINTER 2009

impulse 12

Tina Parrish The most important rules of fashion is to find your identity and go with it, take chances, and above all have fun with it.

It is more about your comfort, from you favorite jeans to that little black dress. If you aren’t comfortable, you won’t pull it off. Confidence speaks louder than fashion.

In this area we are fortunate to have the convenience of the outlet mall, which is always great. I shop there before I drive in town. I have recently also had the opportunity to shop at Maurice’s in Troy. The customer service was outstanding, not to mention I loved the sense of style of the clothing.

Diane Picht

1. Spending the day with my husband 2. Always there for me.

3. To dance and play piano.

4. Never dull.

5. Me. 6. At our two daughters’ weddings 7. Chico’s 8. John Berendt, author of the novel “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.”

9. Don’t have one 10. My temper.

11. Telling me what to do.

12. Death.

13. Raising two extraordinary daughters.

14. Sense of humor 15. Kindness.

16. I may lie about my age...

17. Not being a better business woman.

18. My Mother.

19. Italy 20. My wedding ring.

FALL/WINTER 2009

impulse 13

Angie Luetkenhaus

1. Healthy family with all their bills paid.

2. Commitment and willingness to do anything for you.

3. Singing voice. 4. Giving, loving and sociable.

5. No one style really, it’s whatever makes me feel good.

6. When my two children were born, so I guess at the hospital. 7. Resale shops and SHOE STORES! 8. Melissa Chapman 9. Enough by Barlow Girl and Imagine (Christian music).

10. My spelling skills. 11. Fakeness.

12. Spiders, or losing things or people.

13. My modeling/acting with Images Agency and my Honda Civic commercial.

14. Sensitivity and encouragement, all kinds of support.

15. Genuineness.

16. I don’t but if I withhold info it is to protect feelings.

17. Not going to college after high school (waiting seven years before I did).

18. My Grandma and Mom. 19. Anywhere warm and sunny with palm trees.

20. My children, home and Bible.

Diane Picht

Ann Cardin

1. Being healthy & my family being healthy and happy. Having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

2. Support, kindness and never judging. 3. To be able to sing 4. Ambitious, big-hearted, supportive, forgiving 5. No one in particular 6. Now, right where I am.

7. I really don’t like to shop 8. I don’t have a favorite. I like many different ones. 9. Celtic, christian music, some oldies, some country 10. Unorganized. 11. Poor morals and value, no integrity or honesty.

12. Something happening to one of my children.

13. My children and 28 years of marriage.

14. Kindness, positive attitude and gentleness.

15. Caring, supportive, kindness forgiving.

16. To avoid hurting someone’s feelings.

17. I don’t have regrets. I try to learn and grow from my experiences.

18. My 95 year old grandmother.

19. Some place warm most of the year.

20. My bible and wedding ring.

Barb Paz Formal As a doctor’s wife and business owner, I don’t have many opportunities to get out of the office and dress up so when I do I don’t mind going all out. I look for something that looks great but also allows me the flexibility to dance if the opportunity so presents itself. I heard a quote one time that goes like this, “Put even the plainest woman into a beautiful dress and unconsciously she will try to live up to it.” I think its true; we can add confidence and pride when we love what we are in. Getting dressed up isn’t only fun, its important to do every once in a while. We all need to remind ourselves who we dreamed of being.

Casual I love it when we are done with work and it is time to focus on my husband. We work together, but we are both doing our own thing at work, so the evening is OUR time.

While the local Applebee’s isn’t always appropriate for full formal wear, I still take the the time to shed the scrubs and put on something that expresses who I am. There is nothing like a fun top and a great pair of boots to dress up your favorite pair of jeans!!

1. There is no such thing as a perfect anything.

2. Loyalty.

3. Where do I start? And since I don’t have any at all anything would be great.

4. I don’t take myself seriously at all.

5. No one in particular. A little from this, that and the other.

6. Last Sunday at the Cheesecake Factory with my daughter. 7. Shoe stores.

8. I don’t read as much as I used to. I like anything that is well written and holds my attention. I do like Dean Koontz 9. I don’t have one. But the music I like is varied and extensive--anything from big band to rock to country.

10. Is forgetfulness a trait?

11. I hate it when people brag about themselves and their kids, going on and on and always trying to top you.

12. I have too many to say.

13. Let’s just say I’m still working on it. Finishing this questionnaire for one.

14. Sense of humor.

15. Warmth and being genuine.

16. Lie? Never! Ha Ha! I’ll never tell.

17. Not pursuing a higher education after high school.

18. No one in general, but I admire the military men and women and veterans.

19. I would like to travel to various places and then decide. Otherwise, how would you know if you wanted to live there in the first place?

20. My United States Citizenship!

Anna Pilla

Virginia Long 1. Perfect happiness is a cold and snowy day with something warm and hearty to eat as I sit with my husband and children in our pajamas watching a great movie!

2. A true friend is a gift, I am very lucky to say I have a few of them. I value the times we laugh with one another, you know the great laugh that comes straight from your belly! Having a friend you can confide in and rely on is priceless.

3. I would love to have any sort of musical talent.

4. Forward--I do not like to beat around the bush about anything!

I have been told driven and spunky are good words to describe me.

5. Who influences my sense of style, hmmm…everyone! I really like Tyra Banks style but it does not always work for me considering I am not quite 5’1” and she is 5’10”.

6. While my husband and I were still only dating he joined my children and I on our annual camping trip to a state park. I will never forget it, my world was perfect! I think that is when I fell in love with Pat. 7. I can shop at most places and have a great time. I especially like to go thrift stores and run into something super unique with a bargain price tag. 8. Anne Rice and V.C. Andrews 9. I have every type of music you could imagine on my Ipod, from classical to heavy metal.

10. I have this horrible habit of trying to read people’s minds, particularly my husband’s and my childrens’. It drives them crazy!

11. Social and racial prejudice, it is human ignorance at its worst. 12. Losing my children or my husband to an accident.

13. My greatest achievement is believing in myself and feeling good about who I am. 14. Integrity! 15. Strength 16. When my husband, who is a phenomenal chef, comes in late at night with an arm full of his specials and asks me if I have had dinner yet. I always answer him with a big no.

17. I wish I would have finished my education before I had my family. When I think about the extra time I could have playing with my kids instead of hitting the books it frustrates me.

18. Without a doubt, my father in law is the most admirable person I know. He is the epitome of selflessness and humility.

19. I am perfectly happy where I am, it is home. 20. I have photographs of my great great grandparents that I love to look at. I treasure all of my family photos.

Connie Davis 1. Cruising the Caribbean 2. Truthfulness.

3. Being able to draw or paint.

4. Helpful, happy and fun. 5. My mother.

6. Raising my two sons and their baseball games.

7. Kohl’s. 8. Debbie McComber, Nora Roberts 9. I don’t have one! 10. Unorganized.

11. “You can’t fix stupid.”

12. That I’ll miss an adventure with my granddaughters.

13. Running a quiet shop for ten years.

14. Sense of humor and being able to carry on a conversation.

15. Being able to think for herself.

16. When I keep from hurting someone’s feelings.

17. Not having enough time for sewing, visiting and vacations.

18. My Mom & Dad for their management skills.

19. Right here by my grandkids!

20. My home of twenty years.

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Cathy Kohensky 1. Knowing all of my kids are home, safe and sound.

2. Honesty 3. I wish I could sing, besides church.

4. Effervescent, friendly, outgoing and genuine.

5. The old movie stars – Audrey Hepburn & Sophia Loren 6. In the present.

7. Costco Bakery 8. John Fruing 9. n/a 10. Procrastination 11. Meanness 12. Heights 13. My family.

14. Strength & Humor 15. Sincerity & Humor 16. Only to myself.

17. No regrets.

18. Depends on who’s looking over my shoulder as I’m filling this out.

19. Wherever God takes me.

20. My family.

1. A comfortable relationship with my spouse, enough money to give to others and live comfortably, healthy family and friends 2. Truthfulness and being able to be myself 3. Making people feel comfortable 4. Reliable, funny, flexible and smart 5. Friends 6. By myself-sitting on the pier at the Colony in Longboat Key, Fl late at night with the sound of the ocean waves and a sky full of stars. With someone else- a trip to California with Rick the year after we were married.

Everything we did was fun.

7. A jewelry store 8. Patricia Cornwell, James Patterson, Bill Bass 9. Rap, Hip Hop, Country, Classic Rock, Old Time Radio Podcasts 10. Being impatient 11. Being intolerable of others 12. Failure 13. Opening a brand new funeral home with no promise that we would ever have a funeral. That is self confidence and a whole lot of faith!

14. That he is respectful of others-no matter who they are.

15. A quiet confidence 16. When there is nothing to be gained with the truth 17. I’m not going to put it in writing, but thinking about it has made me cry like a baby....

18. Cindy Lang. She has had many trials and tribulation in her life, yet she never complains, always has a plan and is thankful for everyday 19. On the beach 20. My marriage

Kim Ingersoll

healthcare Washington, Missouri Medical Facility Undergoes

$30.4 Million Expansion

There is a newly expanded, state of the art medical facility that offers medical care, cutting edge technologies and comprehensive treatment unlike any other medical clinic in suburban St. Louis or surrounding counties nestled right in the heart of Washington, Missouri. Patients First Health Care, a multi-specialty physician group and health services company, recently underwent a $30.4 million expansion program at the Washington Campus located at 901 Patients First Drive. Two wings, totaling 109,000 square feet, were added to the existing 85,000 square foot building, and the result is an expanded facility that contains physician offices, a diagnostic center, an expanded café, and additional retail space. A new conference center provides space for public education and training. The building offers convenience, accessibility, and efficiency, all with the patient in mind.

Ground-breaking for the expansion project took place a little over one year ago in June. A wall of windows on all three floors keep patient waiting areas bathed in sunlight, and color-coded building directories provide easy way-finding through the facility. A new three-story parking garage offers 675 spaces to compliment the convenience offered by the medical campus to patients and staff.

Additional services were added to meet the growth of the region and the region’s growing demand for technically advanced health care services. Patients are now able to receive even more of their outpatient medical needs in one location, close to their home.

Expanded Urgent Care Offered The Urgent Care facility at Patients First in Washington is a fully-staffed medical clinic that offers prompt medical attention without an appointment. Urgent Care is open to the public, offers evening hours and is open on the weekends and most holidays. Due to the overwhelming demand, the Urgent Care has doubled its space and now offers ten exam rooms, established triage areas for rapid patient evaluation, a dedicated area for worker’s comp evaluation and testing, and a dedicated x-ray room directly adjacent to exam rooms. An exterior front entrance provides a sheltered drop-off point for the main floor facility. Two board-certified physicians are on-site daily to provide expert medical care.

Sleep Center Focuses on Improving Health As part of Patients First’s expansion, the Sleep Disorders Center has been expanded to include six sleep study rooms. Patients are offered high-tech diagnostic testing in a hotel -like atmosphere, offering a comfortable bedroom with personal television and private bath with shower. Sleep studies can help diagnose a wide range of sleep problems including sleep apnea (a cessation of breathing while sleeping), insomnia, restless legs syndrome and narcolepsy. The Sleep Disorders Center specializes in treatment for adults and children over the age of five. The facility is accredited by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM).

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Heart and Vascular Center Offers Expanded Treatment Options The Heart and Vascular Center offers a wide range of services, including echocardiograms, standard treadmill stress tests and nuclear cardiology stress testing, cardiac monitoring, pacemaker and ICD checks, and vascular ultrasounds and studies. The Heart and Vascular Center is ICAEL Accredited and has also received designation by ICANL as an Accredited Nuclear Cardiology Laboratory and Nuclear Medicine Laboratory, one of the first named laboratories in the U.S. to be so recognized.

New Outpatient Surgery Center Another key piece in the Patients First expansion is the new Ambulatory Surgery Center offering outpatient surgical procedures. Licensed by the State of Missouri and CMS (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services), the Ambulatory Surgery Center offers a safe, convenient, and high quality alternative to inpatient hospitalization.

Two surgical suites and three procedure rooms will allow for expanded ENT and GI treatment, just to name a few. Having a Surgery Center in the medical building allows the Patients First physicians and surgeons to provide more efficient and cost-effective treatment. The convenient location in Washington offers easy access along with convenient parking.

Cancer Center Coming Soon!

When completed, the Patients First Cancer Center will provide medical oncology, radiation oncology, and infusion therapy for local patients. The Center will offer a serene environment for the lengthy and physically exhausting treatment that patients endure. For added safety to our patients, a separate exterior entrance allows cancer patients with suppressed immunity to enter the Cancer Center shielded from other patients. Being able to complete treatment close to home is a big convenience for patients facing lengthy treatment.

Patients First Health Care is a physician-owned, multi-specialty physician group. With 16 offices in 5 counties, 65 practicing physicians and 500 total employees, Patients First Health Care is a proven leader in integrated, quality patient care and serves more than 100,000 patients annually.

Join In The Fun!

Holiday Open House Saturday, December 12 1:00-4:30 p.m.

Visit Santa ∙ Tours ∙ Attendance Prizes

WAKEBOARDER Makes Waves

“Wake what?” Is the question 16-year-old Warrenton wake boarder Blake Hale hears a lot. “Wakeboarding is like a combination of waterskiing and snow boarding. It’s a blast!” Blake explained. He had started the season right by taking gold in his first tournament.

Blake grew up enjoying water sports but it was not until the Fall of 2007 that he discovered wake boarding. “We had gone down to the Lake of the Ozarks to winterize the boats and I saw my cousin’s new board. I asked my Mom if I could give it a try. She said ok and well - I was hooked,” reminisced Blake.

Jane Hale, Blake’s mom recalled, “I was surprised! He got up on his first try and was doing 180’s on his first day. Blake talked me into waiting to winterizing the ski boat so we could go back down the next weekend and he could board some more.” Thus his passion was born.

He spent the school year dreaming of wakeboarding. In the spring of 2008, Blake found a wakeboard camp, bought his first board and he was off. “When we picked Blake up from camp, the Director told us about an upcoming INT League tournament and suggested we let Blake compete,” recall Blake’s parents Mark & Jane Hale.

They signed him up and Blake not only won the gold at that tournament, but he continued to win one gold medal after another. Three wins qualified Blake for a trip to the October INT National Tournament in California. Unfortunately, his dream of competing in the California tournament was dashed when his parents’ store, H&H Guns, experienced a total loss when a fire burned it to the ground on August 20, 2008.

Blake’s dad, Mark, recalls that Blake held out till the last minute in hopes he would somehow still be able go.

Blake rebounded from his disappointment and was off to a great start for the 2009 season.

In February his family went to Florida and Blake got to ride at OWC, which is a cable wake board park where riders are pulled by a cable system instead of a boat.

Blake commented that it similar to a skate board park but only on water. There are ramps, slider, fun boxes and other obstacles to go over and grind. “It is different but a lot of fun,” he said.

Upon returning, Blake was invited to the Kansas City Cable Park’s Relentless Weekend, where his team placed 2nd.

“Weather was very cold. They rode in rash guards, Under Armour, hoodies, and anything else they had to keep warm. Major storms rolled through the area breaking in time to compete but it was very windy and cold,” said Jane.

Blake feels lucky to have wonderful parents who support his sport all the way. Both Mark and Jane are extremely proud of their son’s achievements and their dedication to his success

is exemplary.

The list of tournaments this skilled wakeboarder has won this year is growing as fast as his passion for the sport. He won gold in Lake Richard in Dow, IL, gold in Watermill Lake in Brumley, MO, in Lake Extreme in Greenville, IL and bronze and silver in Issiah’s Run at Owensville, MO. Blake placed first in MO/IL. He went on to compete in the Central/Eastern Divisional Invitational where he ranked 7th. In August Blake won first place in the Lake St. Louis stop of the Hyperlite Hypertour sponsored by Dri-Port Marine.

In addition to wakeboarding, this year Blake also competed in wakeskate and kneeboard events; finishing first in MO/IL in both events. Pretty good considering he borrowed a kneeboard at each event to compete. He acquired his wakeskate just before the first tournament and entered it just for kicks. “He participates in these tournaments for fun, but wakeboarding is his passion. He qualified for the Eastern /Central Invitational in both events but he only entered in wakeboard and wakeskate for fun; he placed 5th in wakeskate.

This talented teenager is a consummate athlete. Blake is also a competitive wrestler in Warrenton High School. A tremendous hunter already at this age, he is often seen answering questions and helping customers at his dad’s business. But despite his busy tournament and training schedule, Blake always finds time for a few good deeds.

For three days each July in 2008 & 2009 Blake volunteered with In His Wake Ministries, a non-profit ministry that uses water sports to share the love of Christ with at risk youth. During the school year he volunteers to work with Special Olympics.

Blake has high hopes for next year “I hope to qualify for INT National’s again – and compete this time,” May luck be always on your side, Blake.

Interview with

5 Authors Dan Neill Q. How many years have you been writing?

A. For as long as I can remember. A little over 30 years.

Q. Take us through a typical writing day.

A. Sometimes in the evenings when I get home from my day job I will write for an hour or two. But when I have an open day, two to three days a week, I do my best writing. I write primarily fiction and to be fully creative I need to enter that fictional world. It is not always easy and it takes some time. On those days, if the ideas are popping, I might write for eight to twelve hours. It’s probably as hard to leave the fictional world as it is to get into it. I usually don’t sleep too well those nights. And, yes, sometimes I’m up several times a night noting ideas that don’t want to stop coming.

Q. Going back to the time when you went from writing occasionally for fun to taking your writing more seriously, tell us about that. What went into that transition?

A. Since high school, I’d written poetry and short stories. Never thought too much about them. In 1993 I shared some of those with a coworker, a lady about my age. She told me how much she liked them and said she thought I had a gift and that I should pursue it. I did. I took some creative writing and literature classes at a local college, read books about creative writing, writing novels, etc. Tried to learn all I could. I wrote nearly every spare minute I found.

There is a magical quality about inspiration and it can be rather addictive. I was under writing’s spell and I haven’t been able to shake it since.

Q. What kinds of things have you written?

And what are you working on now?

A. I’ve probably written a hundred poems.

One was published in a worldwide anthology.

I’ve written perhaps fifty short stories, several of which have been published in newspapers and magazines. I was marketing director for a local company for many years. Approximately 400

of my ads have been published in magazines and newspapers. And I wrote two suspense novels which have gone unpublished. The time spent on them was not a waste. It’s how you learn. I put my time in. A writer writes.

Recently I wrote a children’s chapter book entitled Norman Turns 35, published this year, chapter by chapter, in The Focus News, a local newspaper. I’m currently pursuing agents and publishers attempting to find it a home.

I’ve been working on a suspense novel entitled Regul8or for a little over two years. I should have it ready for agents to take a look at by the end of the year. The story is about a vigilante who is fed up with so many bad people hurting innocent ones, i.e. drug dealers, abusers, potential murderers, who fall through the cracks of the system. He takes it upon himself to deal out justice.

Q. What is your ultimate goal for your writing?

A. I would like to make a full-time career of writing and have a bestseller or two before my days are up.

Q. Name an issue or cause that’s been in the public eye recently which you’ve become

1

interested in. And what would like to do about it? Writing or otherwise?

A. There are many, however, the subjects of injustice and deception always get my blood moving. I am tempted to take time away from fiction and try my hand at a non-fiction book exposing our government. What a mess it’s in.

Who’s really running things and how all that works. How the taxpayers’ money is being wasted and divvied up among a select few who do little more than throw crumbs back to the average U.S. Citizen. I believe there is so much there, we all suspect but don’t know for certain, that if it was laid bare the collective blood of Americans would boil.

Q. What’s your inspiration?

A. Some writers call it their muse. Others refer to the source of their inspiration by other names. In my case, I believe it is God. As I said earlier, there is something magical when those creative juices and inspiration are flowing.

After writing something which seems particularly fantastic, I generally think: I could not have come up with those ideas and put them together like that. I am not capable of such a thing. The ideas definitely come from a power much bigger and greater than me.

I could be wrong, but I believe most writers would agree. Inspiration and ideas can come from anywhere, anytime. I can listen to someone talking and think: that would be a great idea for a novel. Or I can take a tidbit of something real and my mind will run it into a full-blown story. I think all of us are creative. Writers (me anyway) take creativity to an obsessive level. Our minds (my mind) never stop. Ideas about various things swirl through my head every waking moment.

And plenty of times when I’m not awake.

For more about Dan’s writing log onto DanNeill.com.

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Tammy Denton

Q. How many years have you been writing?

A. I’ve been writing most of my life. Before I could write, I made up stories. My sister gave me the nickname of If. I would always ask her, “What would you do if . . .?” or “If this happened then . . .?”

A typical writing day begins with coffee, a lot of coffee. I keep pen and paper by my bed in the event that I think of or dream of something in the middle of the night. I usually go over notes in the morning with my coffee. I can only write so long on the computer before I have to print out a hard copy, then I go somewhere away

from home to make corrections and add scenes the old fashioned way by hand. For me, good writing is rewriting.

Q. Going back to the time when you went from writing occasionally for fun to taking your writing more seriously, tell us about that. What went into that transition?

A. I went from writing occasionally to something more serious in 2005. Following the death of my fiancé, writing became a way of healing. It was a cathartic process. Each time I wrote, a little bit of pain peeled away. Since there was so much emotional pain, I wrote a lot.

He believed that I could do anything and really encouraged me to write. I felt a strong need to honor his memory and to make him proud of me.

Q. What kinds of things have you written?

A. I’ve written short stories, essays, newspaper articles, opinion pieces, a novel, a novella, some really bad poetry, research papers, and my graduate school thesis. Right now, I’m working on a novel, Man of the House. I have about two more paragraphs before I finish. I know that stopping two paragraphs before the end is unusual, but they have to be done correctly, after all, that’s the last thing the reader sees, and I want them to have the sense that it was well worth reading.

Q. And what are you working on now?

A. The first fifty words of my novel, Man of the House.

“Each shot had to count. Alaga sighted

carefully along the barrel of a rusty rifle. Bullets were scarce and more valued than gold, but still more valuable was the meat he hoped to bring home. His vision blurred and he rubbed a grimy hand across his eyes, forcing them to focus.

Hunger, fatigue or hatred caused the head of a large, brown rat to morph into the face of the soldier who had changed his life forever. He steadied himself, sighted again, then, squeezed the trigger, separating the rodent’s head from its body. Yes! Tonight they would have meat to celebrate Zlata’s birthday.“ Q. Name an issue or cause that’s been in the public eye recently which you’ve become interested in. And what would like to do about it? Writing or otherwise?

A. I think the most important thing that I can do with my words is to deliver a dream, to paint a picture, to transport my reader to another place or time.

Q. What is your ultimate goal for your writing?

A. Two things I try to accomplish in everything I write.

First, reading is like a magic carpet ride, and I hope that my audience can, for a moment, live outside of their world and experience the one I’ve created.

Secondly, I would be thrilled if after reading my novels, people would remember the characters months later and wonder how they are doing. That would be the greatest compliment I could ever receive.

Daryl Bradshaw Q. How many years have you been writing?

A. About five years.

Q. Take us through a typical writing day.

A. I try to write everyday, but it’s tough after a long day at work. I write like Stephen King. I know my start and the ending, but the middle is developed as I go.

Q. Going back to the time when you went from writing occasionally for fun to taking your writing more seriously, tell us about that. What went into that transition?

A. I taught a curriculum dealing with managerial skills. Each session involved an ice breaker and the class urged me to share as well. By the time the week long course ended, they advised me to

start writing.

Q. What kinds of things have you written? And what are you working on now?

A. Working on three things now. A tween (Age 9 to 13) humor-mystery, an adult mainstream thriller, and a romance novel. In the past I have written three tween novels.

Q. Name an issue or cause that’s been in the public eye recently which you’ve become interested in. And what would like to do about it? Writing or otherwise?

A. My current novel deals with the state of the world. Namely, the Mayan, Egyptian, Nostradamus, and Biblical prophecies about the end of the world. I developed a mainstream thriller by combining all four. There will be an

FALL/WINTER 2009

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increased emphasis on the year 2012, world catastrophes, and Biblical prophecy over the next three years.

Q. Can anyone be a writer? Can anyone call themselves a writer?

A. Anyone can be a writer, but not everyone can be a storyteller. Like someone telling a joke, anyone can do it, but not everyone can deliver the punch line to bring on the laughter.

Q. What’s the most important thing you as a writer can do with your words?

A. The most important thing a writer can do is respect the reader. Make sure you paint a picture, never insult their intelligence, and give them a good story. impulse 21

4

MaryAnn Holmes

Q. How many years have you been writing?

A. When I was nine, someone donated an old desk to my parents, and I wondered what great works had been written upon it. I believed stories seeped onto my paper from memories buried inside the wood of that desk, and I’ve never stopped believing.

Q. Take us through a typical writing day.

A. Most days begin with my new puppy nipping at my toes before I turn on the computer, and they end with him asleep on my feet.

Q. Going back to the time when you went from writing occasionally for fun to taking your writing more seriously, tell us about that.

A. When I turned fifty, my son said, “You’re

old. If you don’t do it now, it’s not going to happen.” I took him seriously.

Q. What went into that transition?

A. I sat down and finished writing a novel, joined writer’s groups, and went to conferences.

In doing so, I successfully piqued the interest of an agent. She told me in order to break through, I needed to win some contests. That same year, I wrote another novel, entered and placed honorable mention in several contests, but I was never “officially” signed by an agent or publisher. It’s four years later, and I working on yet another novel. Unfortunately, I’ve been slowed by a bit of Myasthenia Gravis, but I’m not going to let it stop me.

3. Q. What kinds of things have you written?

A. Some of my novels include: Killing Rabbits: Joe Detrie runs away from an abusive family but returns to rescue his younger brother and kill their father.

Desperate Chance: A psychic telepathically receives messages about a crime before it’s committed. While trying to convince a nonbelieving detective, they fall in love.

Q. And what are you working on now?

A. Letters from the Dead is about a girl who receives mysterious notes from a friend who was killed in a car accident.

Skinwalker’s Howl is a project I just began about a nine-year-old girl who becomes a werewolf and returns to live as the family’s pet.

I’ve spent most of my life studying the paranormal and try to apply it in my writing.

Q. Why would I want to read one of your novels?

A. My goal is to tell a great story about regular people with imperfect lives. I work to develop each character into an ordinary but unforgettable person.

Q. What’s the most important thing you as a writer can do with your words?

A. Attempt to gather and arrange words in such a way the reader will never forget.

Q. Can we see the beginning of one of your novels?

A. I thought you’d never ask. If you have any comments, I’d love to here from you: maryannholmes@ymail.com.

Letters from the Dead: “Over there is where they bury children.

Babies too.” Gabriel pointed to a section of smaller headstones and crosses further down the hill.

Strong April wind whipped through the field, tall grass bowed in reverence. In the distance, blossoming redbuds and dogwoods layered the ridge’s shelves. Blooms from the other trees remained asleep, but their roots dipped deep into wells of secrets as bristled branches swayed back and forth painting the sky gray.

MaryAnn Holmes resides in Maryland Heights, Missouri maryannholmes@ymail.com.

Steve Ortwerth Q. How many years have you been writing?

A. I began writing my first novel, Under House Arrest in the spring of 2001. The project began as a way to satisfy a nagging curiosity I’d carried for years--whether I could write something with the length and breadth of a novel. That work represents seeds to a story that had been in my mind for several years prior.

Q. Going back to the time when you went from writing occasionally for fun to taking your writing more seriously, tell us about that.

A. I have not yet achieved my goal of becoming a career writer. I go to my writing every day, whether time allows me to create new material or not. I discovered early on that just five minutes at my desk lets me to further my work, even if only to strengthen a thought or idea involving my premise. Being an early riser, I work about two hours each morning before going to my day job. Schedule permitting, I add another ten hours through each week in the evening. So, there is nothing typical about my writing schedule past my commitment to write.

3. Q. What kinds of things have you written?

And what are you working on now?

A. I already mentioned my completed novel,

Under House Arrest, a story about a one-world government gone bad, for which I am actively seeking literary representation. My second novel, a healing saga with a paranormal twist entitled Across the Sound, is about seventy-five percent complete.

Q. What is your ultimate goal for your writing?

A. I found delight in the workplace at age nineteen when I began my working Chef’s apprenticeship. For fifteen years, I enjoyed a creative outlet requiring the occasional pinch, as a reminder that someone paid me to prepare such delicacies. For the last eighteen years, I have worked in the mortgage industry, a career choice made after I married which allowed me the schedule and benefit structure supportive of my responsibilities as husband and father. When I began writing, I found a new creative outlet for which I am equally passionate about as I am with cooking. My goal therefore is to build a third career that once again requires the occasional pinch as I support my family.

Q. Can anyone be a writer? Can anyone call themselves a writer?

A. Of course anyone can write with purpose.

5

Which runs to the next question, ‘who can call themselves a writer’? Purpose here is the operative word. I write with purpose because it draws me - calls to me. I have yet to be published, and should I never be published, I’ll still write every day the rest of my life. This is because I’m a writer. I write not because someone else tells me to. We all did that in school, and I still do that daily in the workplace. But my novels are a work of love and, hopefully, may someday bring someone else a moment of enjoyment - the way my culinary creations did so many years ago.

Q. What’s the most important thing you as a writer can do with your words?

A. I began answering that in the previous question: ‘can anyone be a writer’? The most important thing I can do with my words is give someone else a moment’s interlude away from the maddening world around them. If I can provoke a smile, a tear, or a fresh outlook, then my words will have made a difference. Those are the most important things I want my words to do.

Steve Ortwerth is from St. Charles.

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essential oils: Some things You May Not Know

by Jack Val Spencer LMT First it might be appropriate to define essential oils. When most people hear the term essential oils, their eyes glaze over and they ask about such oils as vegetable or olive oils. These heavy oils, although perhaps healthy as well, are not essential oils. They are too heavy to evaporate or penetrate cell walls or the blood brain barrier and do not qualify as essential oils in true aromatherapy (i.e. true MEDICINE) terms. Essential Oils are the very essence of the plants from which they are derived. They provide protection to the plant--and to us.

When applied to the skin they penetrate and travel to all areas of the body within minutes.

Essential Oils are also alive, as opposed to pharmaceuticals which are dead, have no life giving properties and are actually recognized as poisons by the body. This is why there are always negative side effects with pharmaceuticals. Essential Oils are actually rated in megahertz, meaning that they carry an electrical charge not unlike radio frequencies. This allows them to provide benefits even if they are not applied to the body, as in aromatherapy. The olfactory system is one of the most powerful systems in the body and has much to do with the healing properties of the oils since as much as 90% of disease is aggravated by, if not actually caused by, emotions.

The blood brain barrier, through which most molecules cannot pass, can be penetrated by essential oils allowing them to heal the emotions that are stored in that area of the brain.

It is also important to note that these oils contain constituents which can actually reverse auto immune diseases such as cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, and even AIDS. And all of this with no negative side effects! Imagine, medicine that actually heals without making you feel worse!

There are oils for just about any condition you can imagine and unlike pharmaceuticals, they all can work together for your benefit, rather than clash with one another. One such blend is actually effective against anthrax, MRSA, and toxic mold, yet is safe enough to ingest.

If your church or other club or organization would be interested in hosting an informative and entertaining workshop on essential oils please contact us. For more information on Essential Oils or other health related issues contact Jack Val Spencer at Therapeutic Massage of Troy , 636 528 4507.

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Clean: Wash hands and food-contact surfaces often. Bacteria can spread throughout the kitchen and get onto cutting boards, knives, sponges, and counter tops.

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Cook: Cook to proper temperatures. Foods are properly cooked when they are heated for a long enough time and at a high enough temperature to kill the harmful bacteria that cause foodborne illness.

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Authentic Mexican Cuisine!

MEX MEXICAN RESTAURANT

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Nestled along the banks of the Missouri River, just 90 minutes from downtown Saint Louis and about three hours from Kanas City sits Hermann. The City of Hermann is a picturesque German community offering old-world hospitality, the quiet charm of an earlier time and the perfect place for an El Ranchito Restaurant.

This El Ranchito crackles with energy. It’s the place to be when you want the best Mexican food this side of Texas. They have a huge menu of every combination you can imagine. They offer three flavors of margaritas (mango, lime and strawberry) and 35-40 types of hard to find imported beer. The imported beers and mixed drinks compliment the fajitas, buritos, enchiladas, nachos, tortillas, tacos and quesadillas. There is even a variety of vegeterian delicacies. The cheese sauce and salsa are homemade daily.

For the carnivores among us, the Mexican short ribs (above, center) are a symphony of amazing flavors that come from the wonderful blends of spices, herbs and chiles used in the dish. Cooked for hours in its own savory sauce, this rib meat falls off the bone and melts in your mouth. Because the chefs are passionate about their work, this family restaurant creates dishes exclusively from the freshest ingredients and the finest traditional Mexican recipes. You’ll savor the unique flavors and spices infused into every slow-cooked rub.

For lunch, El Ranchito serves reasonably priced American sandwiches like the turkey, ham and avocado club that also comes with fries and a cup of soup. The quality food and value bring in the professionals for lunch.

Tilapia. I’ve heard that chefs have to really get creative to make it taste good. That it’s a hard sell in a restaurant. That it’s bland. You can take all those negative views and toss them right out the window.

What a great dish! The fish was flaky and tender and every bite was delicious. The encrusted batter was flavorful and not too heavy. The steamed vegetables and rice were a nice balance. I will be back for more of this!

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Warrenton, MO

Authentic Mexican Cuisine!

MEXICAN RESTAURANT MEX Carry-out Orders Available!

Happry Houday! 701 7 Market St. HERMANN very E

573.486.0407

(636) 456-5930

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Jonesburg, MO 636-488-3256

“ Half way to the lake or Mizzou”

Gift Certificates Available

Open 7 days a week Est. 1990

Full Service Restaurant & Bar featuring Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Banquets & Catering

You can enjoy your next Dental visit!

A Dentist

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Thanks to the advancements in technology you can now visit your dentist and receive NO SHOTS. That is if your dentist is one of the 5% of the dentists in the USA using this type of technology. Dr. Paz at Laser Comfort Dentistry is among those that seek to provide his clients with leading edge laser technology that eliminated the need to needles for over 80% of his procedures, and many of them can be done without a drill also. This comes at NO COST INCREASE, same insurance coverage, and less time in the chair.

• Drill Free Dentistry • Invisible Braces for Kids & Adults • 18 Month No Interest Plans Available • Safer Digital X-Rays • High Tech & Soft Touch • No Needle Laser Anesthesia • Spa Like Treatment Now accepting new patients, call to set up an appointment.

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405 W Veterans Memorial Pkwy Warrenton, MO • 636.456.5001

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22 Years Experience, Handcrafted dishes featuring fresh seafood, hand-cut steaks, homemade pasta & delectable desserts.

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Home Sales

All homes sold at Wholesale Prices!

You Pay What We Pay - All We Add is Set Up Charges - No Hidden Fees

Call toll free today! 800-316-3513 551 John Deere Dr. | Troy, MO

“Mr. Perfectionist” Meet John Hefner, he is the owner with 23 years experience and a total perfectionist.

He personally will be setting up your home and is “NOT” a subcontractor.

Our main goal is to make you happy from start to finish, with your new home purchase.

Just a few miles south of Monroe City, Missouri, is the Mark Twain Lake. Offering 18,000 acres of water and 285 miles of shoreline for boating, fishing, picnics, and other recreational activities. The drive to the lake offers visitors and residents a beautiful country scene complete with farmland and country homes.

Above: El Ranchito in Monroe City, Missouri.

Above Top Left: Super Fajita Quesadilla.

Top Right: Chihuahua Steak.

Bottom Right: Fiesta Nachos.

Bottom Left: Restaurant Manager, Augi Gallardo Far Right: El Molcajete.

Since 2007, the talented chefs at El Ranchito have treated their customers to the exotic, robust flavors of authentic Mexican tacos, enchiladas, burritos and more. From their comfortable booths and tables to their authentic Mexican artwork and dĂŠcor, the restaurant transports you to the heart of Mexico. While you enjoy their traditional Mexican foods, you can almost feel the gentle tropical breezes and taste the mouth-watering aromas of tortillas, fresh cheeses, and juicy meats from the local markets.

Whether you are visiting, passing through or are part of the community, the restaurant’s welcome sign conveys to all that their staff enjoy the opportunity to serve you. Whether you tackle a plate of traditional tacos or try their awe-inspiring house specialities, their food will warm your heart and satisfy your taste for adventure.

The super fajita quesadillas are a sizzling skillet of marinated beef or chicken piled high with savory peppers and onions infuse the meat to create a taste sensation unlike anything else.

Chihuahua steaks are amazingly tender. Because they are so dedicated to creating high-quality meals to keep you coming back to their restaurants, their chefs insist on exclusively using fine cuts of top-choice USDA beef. Cooked according to your tastes, their rare, medium and well-done specialties are always tender, juicy, and satisfying. Served with savory white cheese, fresh bell peppers, sweet onions, rice and beans, this hearty plate satisfies the meanest of appetites. The fried ice cream, a sweetened deep-fried dough and ice cream treat, is the perfect ending to any Mexican meal.

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Aftercare Specialist • Advanced Funeral Planning Cremation Service Options The Tradition Continues...

Family Owned & Operated

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ets p r a C ur ys Get Yo the Holida Ready

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A little over ten years ago, the Gallardos moved to Washington state from Guadalhara, Mexico. After helping a cousin run a restaurant in the El Maguya chain, moving ahead in the story, the Gallardos decided to start their own restaurant in Union called El Ranchito. The rest, as they say, is history.

Before long, they opened another in Hermann, then Warrenton, New Haven, and lastly, Monroe City.

They brought all their authentic recipes from Mexico that have been in the family for generations.

Each restaurant is under the personal care of a family member. Five of eight children guarantee the reputation that the family has earned. This charming restaurant is located in the heart of New Haven’s cozy community.

El Ranchito Mexican Restaurants are devoted to their customers and the satisfaction of their service, as well as to ensure that their dining experience is a pleasant one. As you walk into an El Ranchito, you are not only greeted by their friendly staff, but also by the decor which comes to you from every corner of Mexico.

Walkiing into El Ranchito transports you to Mexico, with its lime green walls, bright yellow tables and chairs, and yes, Mariachi music, too. It’s authentic to the last detail. The margaritas are very well made and wow, are they potent! All of the El Ranchitos have a fully licensed, fully stocked lounge.

The fajitas (shown above, center) are brought to the table sizzling loudly on a metal platter or skillet with the tortillas and condiments served on the side. Everything containing cheese is made with traditional Mexican “queso blanco” instead of the usual yellow cheddar; this helps add to the authentic tastes.

Most Mexican restaurants serve chips and salsa before the meal, but none serve pico de gallo and salsa verde like the El Ranchito. The excellent food, scenic drive and friendly atmosphere make it a fantastic destination for any day of the week.

CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS

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• Annual, quarterly, monthly accounting services • QuickBooks • Income Tax Return Preparation • Payroll and Sales Tax Return Preparation • Business Organization • Initial Business Applications • Accounting System Set-Up • Estate and Income Tax Planning •Audits • Business Sales and Business Acquisitions

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• Creative • Timely financial reporting • Professional • Accessible • Client’s concerns about business and financial issues addressed • Technical tax and accounting issues

283 Veterans Memorial Pkwy, Warrenton MO • (636) 456-0622 Fax (636) 456-9733 • www.zigocpa.com • Email: DzigoCPA@sbcglobal.net

The difference is in the details.

FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION CENTER Troy, MO | (636) 528-8244 www.mccoyblossomfh.com

The Blossom Family, Our family Serving Your Family.

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Opening Your Own Restaurant?

Financial Planning Advice from a CPA By: Mary Raterman There are many financial planning issues that will aid in the success or failure of a hospitality business such as a restaurant. Let’s explore a few of these issues.

The first decision a new restauranteur needs to make is the organization of the business for taxation and asset protection. The simplest form of business is that of a sole proprietor. A sole proprietorship offers no form of asset protection, and the liability exposure for a restaurant may warrant a more formal method of organization.. An entity that has gained a lot of popularity recently is a Limited Liability Company, or an LLC. An LLC is formed by registering as such with the state and can have one or more members. The number of members in the LLC is a determing factor as to how the entity will be taxed. One member LLC’s are taxed the same way as sole proprietorships only they have the asset protection of the LLC. Multi-member LLC’s may be taxed as either partnerships or Subchapter S Corporations. The most formal entity would be a corporation. Once formed, the shareholders may make the election to be a Subchapter S Corporation. Be sure to consult with an attorney and a CPA to choose the organization that best fits your needs.

Just the thought of payroll taxes makes some business owners groan.

No one likes the thought of completing difficult forms, sending them to all the right taxing authorities, and definitely not writing that check to send with them! But as you well know, you can’t run a restaurant as a one man show; you need employees. Some business owners just dig in

and learn the process and complete payroll returns in house. The reality is that running a restaurant is hard work and the hours are long. Many owners find that outsourcing this ongoing and important chore is the best way to be sure it is done timely and accurately. If a business gets behind on payroll taxes, it is very difficult to catch back up. Many times the debt snowballs and before you know it, it has overwhelmed you. Working with a CPA or payroll service can take the burden off your shoulders so you can concentrate on more important things, like not running out of pickles.

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FAST & FREE DELIVERY

FALL/WINTER 2009

impulse 51

May Your Holiday Snacks Be

Healthy Ô Midway through the afternoon, with the aromas of a holiday dinner filling the house, the tradition at many homes is to open a bottle of sparkling wine and bring out an appetizer.

My aunt designates the day after a holiday feast “leftover and snack” day. At meal time, she spreads the left overs on the dining table, and guests are invited to contribute their favorite snacks.

A gourmet breakfast is served shortly after midnight at the neighbor’s New Year’s Eve party. For the early evening, their invitation gives one simple instruction: bring an appetizer for the table.

The above are just a few of the occasions over the holidays when you’ll be called upon to produce a creative snack. The first requirement of a snack is that it be tasty, but if you can make it healthy as well, you win some points.

What is a “healthy” snack?

“Healthy,” most would agree, means food that is dense in nutrition but low in saturated fat and calories. That generally means fruits, vegetables and whole grains, but you can also add some nuts, seeds, fish, lean meat and low-fat dairy products to the mix.

A platter of raw carrots, celery, cauliflower and other vegetables is about as healthy as you can get. Eat the whole platter, and you might rack up a grand total of 50 to 75 calories and virtually no grams of fat. A fruit salad is equally healthy and only slightly higher in calories, depending on what fruits you include.

Ô

PARMESAN ARTICHOKE DIP:

As a warm dip right out of the oven, this works well with low-fat wheat crackers, vegetables or multi-grain bread.

•4 ounces of light cream cheese, •half cup light mayonnaise •1½ teaspoon minced garlic •three-quarters cup shredded Parmesan cheese •14 ounce can of artichoke hearts, drained and chopped •2 tablespoons dry white wine •quarter cup finely chopped red bell pepper •1 to 2 tablespoons mild, chopped green chilies.

Using a mixer or food processor, blend cream cheese, mayonnaise and garlic, then add remaining ingredients and mix well. Bake in a casserole dish at 350 degrees for about 30 minutes or until bubbly.

Unfortunately, the fruits and vegetables aren’t going to attract much attention unless you add some tasty dips which could easily quadruple your calories if you’re not careful.

Dips, salsas, spreads, casseroles and other creative combinations form the backbone of any good appetizer table, and these dishes vary greatly in terms of both calories and nutrition.

It might be argued that the easy availability of tasty snacks is one major reason for the weight gain that most Americans experience over the holidays. The answer is 1) to exercise some restraint both at the appetizer table and the dinner table and 2) to think in terms of nutrition when you fill your plate. A good snack will fill that hole in your stomach, but it should also meet some needs in your daily diet.

FRUIT KEBOBS WITH LEMON LIME DIP Fresh fruit is rich in vitamins, calcium, potassium and other nutrients that are hard to obtain in sufficient quantities from other foods. And the typical mid-winter American diet is generally lacking in fruit.

•Fresh fruit–pineapple, melon, strawberries, banana, grapes and other fruit–on skewers •4 ounces of low-fat sugar-free lemon yogurt

•1 teaspoon lime zest In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt, lime juice and lime zest. Then cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Thread fruit on skewers and serve with the lemon lime dip.

You can wolf down two skewers for only about 160 calories, less than one gram of saturated fat and 45 milligrams of sodium. On the plus side, you get four grams of fiber, 516 milligrams of potassium and 122 milligrams of calcium.

Submitted by Rose Ottinger, a been a Registered Dietician at Lincoln County Medical Center for over 20 years.

She assesses patients’ nutritional needs and develops and implements nutritional programs. She is also a Diabetes Educator as recognized by the American Diabetes Association and assures high-quality education for patients. For more information, please visit call 636-528-8551.

Ô

Ô

CHIPOTLE SPICED SHRIMP:

Although high in cholesterol, shrimp is actually heart-healthy.

It’s low in saturated fat and high in omega-3 fatty acids.

•half pound uncooked shrimp, peeled. deveined, rinsed and patted dry •2 tablespoons tomato paste •1½ teaspoons water •half teaspoon extra virgin olive oil •half teaspoon chipotle chili powder •half teaspoon fresh oregano, chopped For the marinade, whisk together the tomato paste, water and olive oil. Add garlic, chili powder and oregano and mix well.

Brush the marinade on both sides of the shrimp and refrigerate until ready to use. Using a grill basket or skewers, grill the shrimp for about three to four minutes on each side.

Ô

ÔCRANBERRY CREAM CHEESE:

This is a simple spread that is appropriate for the season. Combine: •Two-thirds cup of light cream cheese •one-third cup of your homestyle cranberry sauce, a raspberry cranberry sauce or an orange cranberry sauce.

This spread has only 32 calories per tablespoon with 1.1 grams of saturated fat and 51 milligrams of sodium.

This may be a bit high in sodium to be called truly healthy, but it’s certainly flavorful. To lower the fat and sodium, use reduced fat cheese and go easy on the olives.

•1 can of diced tomatoes or whole tomatoes finely chopped in food processor •4 ounces of reduced-fat feta or other goat cheese •2 ounces of Provencal olives In a casserole dish, pour tomatoes over crumbled feta cheese.

Add olives, then bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes or until cheese is melted and tomatoes are bubbling. Serve with bread rounds or whole grain crackers.

A D E PA Z L A C O C IN s eak And Bean

TRAIL MIX:

Nuts and dried fruit are always welcome munchies on the side board.

Or you can combine them in a trail mix.

•1 cup assorted dried fruit–including cranberries, apples, tart cherries •half cup walnut halves or almonds •1 cup Grape Nuts, Wheat Chex or similar cereal •half cup raisins Toss all ingredients together, with or without a dash of salt.

BAKED TOMATO, FETA AND OLIVE DIP

Mexican St

The Pefect meal for a cool fall day s a father of 7 and grandfather of 6, my opportunities over the years to master my cooking talents seem endless.

I love to collect recipes and change them to suit my own taste. It seems the combination of putting together my own variety of food and spices, and then offering them to my closest friends and family has become a way for me to explore my more creative side while at the same time feeding my family.

A

opportunity to discover what I could accomplish if I just create it. For me the greatest thrill is the reaction I receive when I can bless my family with something original that makes them smile. This is my love language.

This simple recipe is a good one to help you feel warm on a cold day in the fall, and leave you feeling full and satisÞed. Just try this one out for yourself.

The time I spend in the kitchen can be so much more than just preparing a meal, for me itÕs an outlet of creativity, a time of relaxation, a time to indulge my imagination. Modifying or designing recipes gives me an

-Dr. Paz A local Dentist in Warrenton, MO visit pazdental.com to Þnd out more.

A Few Tips The key to this dish is using low heat and short cooking times. The better your ingredients, the better your results will be. Be creative. Adjust the liquids and ingredients to suit your taste. Cooking for me is therapeutic. It should reßect what you feel, and it should feed your soul more than it feeds your palate.

Enjoy!

Lets Get Started

Cooking Time: Aprox 30 min.

pies i c e R l Loca

Ingredients Ingridents 2 Jalapenos, peeled, seeded and chopped 1 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped 1 large onion, cut into 1Ó pieces 1 can Rotelle tomatoes 2 lbs. lean sirloin steak cut into 1Ó strips about ½Ó wide 1 can chili hot beans, drained ½ C ßour 2 Tbsp. chili powder 1 Tbsp ground cumin ½ tsp black pepper ½ tsp salt 3 Tbsp. olive oil 2 Tbsp. cilantro leaf, fresh, chopped 1 ½ cups cooked white rice

In a large skillet, or dutch oven, heat the olive oil. SautŽ the onions & peppers. While this is heating, combine all dry ingredients, except the cilantro. Dredge all the meat through the ßour mixture. When onions are translucent, add the meat, and all the remaining ßour mixture to the skillet. Brown meat covered on medium heat, being careful not to scorch the ßour. Add a small amount of olive oil if needed to prevent scorching. I like my steak very tender, browned on the outside and very pink inside.

So, this step only takes a few minutes. You may need to turn heat down and cook this longer if you want your steak well done. Remember this cut of steak gets very tough the longer you cook it.

Once the meat is browned to your satisfaction, add the Rotelle tomatoes, and fold in the beans and cilantro gently so as to prevent smashing the beans. Heat covered on medium low until heated through, and moisture is reduced by half. Serve over cooked white rice, and have warm tortillas and Cholula hot sauce on the side. This could serve 4-6 people. I like serving this dish with a red wine like Estancia Cabernet, or Tamarindo soda for a unique alternative.

The Difference is in the Details Since 1933, the McCoy-Blossom Funeral Home & Cremation Center has served the Lincoln and Pike county areas with respect and dignity. For the last 28 years, the Blossom family has continued this caring tradition. McCoy-Blossom is one of the only funeral homes in the area that is owned and operated by longtime residents of the community.

With three funeral homes in Troy, Eolia and Hawk Point, McCoy-Blossom Funeral Home & Cremation Center serve the greater Lincoln County including Moscow Mills. “All funeral homes are not alike,” says Jim Blossom, the owner of McCoy Blossom. “The difference is in the details. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to the families we serve.”

“At McCoy-Blossom Funeral Home we offer customized funeral and cremation services. Our goal is to provide your family with many options; at many different price ranges to provide a personalized service for your loved one,” adds Jim, a life long veteran of the funeral industry, who has served as a funeral director most of his life.

Arrangement conferences, visitations, and funeral and cremation services at McCoy-Blossom are held at the time most convenient to the family with an owner present at all times. “We firmly believe that you cannot measure your love by the service you choose. We provide dignified services while being considerate of our families’ budgets,” says Jim. “Our family, not corporate ownership, makes us able to provide economical funeral and cremation services within the means of every family,” states Mari Blossom, co-owner of the funeral home.

According to Jim and Mari, all specialized funeral preparations are completed in McCoy-Blossom’s own facilities, by their family. “No other funeral home in Troy does that. This is another way in which our family is caring for your family,” he states.

“Our professional service areas, visitation rooms, funeral service chapel, and reception and banquet rooms are available at all times to serve the families in need of our care. Our facilities are all handicapped accessible and are on one level,” says Mari. “All our specialized motor equipment including our all black Cadillacs are another way in which we strive to provide the very best for the families in which we serve.

McCoy-Blossom offers pre-need arrangements with skilled counselors. Their grief support meetings are provided at no charge for the entire community. The group meets the 2nd

Monday of each month from 6:30 pm to 8 pm at their Troy location.

In order to serve the whole community, a Spanish speaking interpreter is available upon request.

(Interprete espanol disponible) “In true tradition, there is security,” says Jim. “Security in knowing that we have been there for over seventy seven years; we are here now and will be here in the future.” McCoy Blossom Funeral Homes can be contacted at 636528-8244.

Jim Blossom

WINE TASTING CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11 the wine.

No doubt, studying the color and clarity of the wine may not have much bearing in how your wine is going to taste, though for a wine tasting connoisseur there is as much joy in holding the wine as there is in tasting it. Another important aspect to wine tasting is the bouquet, which is not a bunch of flowers, but rather the way that the wine smells.

Thus, you will need to properly hold the wine glass and lower your hand so that the glass is level and then you need to make a rotation of your wrist in order to gently swirl the wine within the wine bowl, though remember that to get the best out of swilling the wine, very little wrist movement is necessary. Swilling the wine brings its aroma to the fore which can then be savored as well as smelled which you can do by bringing the wine glass at the level of your nose and do so in an elegant manner.

Now, you are ready for the real wine tasting activity which essentially requires that you do not guzzle the wine; rather, you need to take dainty sips and it requires bringing the glass to your lips which should part slightly and a small sip is taken.

Then you should close your mouth and roll the wine gently about your tongue for a couple of seconds and then let the wine slide down your throat while making sure that you do not exhale at this time. That is the basics of wine tasting.

Article Source: http://www.california-wine-articles.com

FALL/WINTER 2009

impulse 54

Kid’s Corner

Photos by Sarah Crowder, set design by Erin Gaugh, Clothing provided by Sweet Petunia

Bride’s Guide

Photo by Sarah Crowder

Bride’s Guide

décor

Why Buy When You Can Rent?

As you enter the building of Garden Gate Party Rental, an elegantly decorated Christmas tree reminds you of the impending holidays and puts you in the spirit. Their beautiful showroom allows their customers to visualize the rental products needed for their special occasion. The displays are set for weddings, Christmas parties, anniversaries, and is a showcase of centerpieces, candelabras, arches, columns, and much more.

Garden Gate Party Rental has been serving customers in St. Charles, West County, St. Louis, Warren, Lincoln, Montgomery, Pike counties for seven years. They are locally owned and operated

by Patra Taylor and Robert Chacon. Patra has been a resident of Troy all her life. They possess the experienced and professional staff to take care of any size and type of party ranging from weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, Christmas and holiday parties, reunions, BBQs, fundraisers, picnics and company events to school and business functions.

Garden Gate carries everything from tables, chairs, linens and table covers, tents, beverage containers, roasters, chafing dishes, wicker décor, brass and silver décor, chocolate fountains, mirrors to helium for balloons. With a large selection of balloons, they have a design for almost every occasion. ”I have an incredible full time staff here comprising of Troy residents Janet Freymuth and Robert Stephens. Janet specializes in weddings and Robert is in charge of delivery. He is also our setup specialist. Robert maintains all our products. Our items are of high quality and kept extremely clean. They are highly customer oriented and driven individuals who make sure every detail are taken care of.

Parta is especially proud of the fact that her staff regards their customer’s wedding as their own. It is not uncommon for Janet to spend several hours with the bride to find out exactly what she wants and needs. She will give ideas and help with just about anything regarding your wedding day including coordinating, wedding reception ideas. And best of all there is no consultation fee.

Both Janet and Patra are very creative with their brides and their customers appreciate that extraordinary attention to detail.

A bridal show will be held at Garden Gate Party Rental & Supply in Troy, MO on January 24, 2010. ”Come see all our wedding retail and rental items,” said Patra. The showroom will display candelabras, linens, skirting, centerpieces, chairs, tables, lighted columns and more. This annual bridal show is normally attended by several hundred brides from the region. ”Book your wedding on Sunday, Jan 24, 2010 from 11 a.m.3pm and receive 20% off on rental items. (linens and skirting excluded),” she added. During the show you can enter the drawings to win one of the following: Aisle Runner or Free delivery within

50 mile radius or a five gallon punch or wine fountain or a cake and knife serving set.

Garden Gate Party Rental is able to accommodate any party rental need from one table to one hundred tables. “We will spend as much time as needed for each individual. They invite you to come in their showroom and see the variety of high quality items they have to offer. “We are constantly striving to maintain quality products and excellent customer service. The word of mouth testimonials of our satisfied clients brings in a large part of clientele.

“Why Buy When You Can Rent, especially in these times?” concluded Patra.

Garden Gate party Rental & Supply is located at 651 S Main Street in Troy, MO. Their hours are Mon – Fri, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. and can be contacted at 636-462-5665.

You can also visit them on the web at www.gardengatepartyrental. com.

• Weddings • Corporate Events • Banquets • Private Functions • Fundraisers

Garden Gate Party Rental & Supply

FALL/WINTER 2009

Bridal Show

Jan 24th • 11am to 3pm

651 South Main St.

TROY, MO

636-462-56655 impulse 57

Bride’ s Guide Custom Jewelry is Uniquely You What is custom jewelry? Custom jewelry is jewelry created to accent what you are wearing, naturally enhance your beauty and quietly express your personality. Custom jewelry is the result of collaboration between you and a jewelry designer resulting in a completed piece or set of jewelry made to fit you perfectly.

This is a service many women prefer, however, it is getting harder and harder to find a jewelry designer willing to take the time to work with you.

Custom jewelry is not jewelry you choose out of a catalog and then have made in the color you want. You can’t buy custom jewelry on the Internet or at the mall. People tend to confuse oneof-a-kind designer jewelry pieces and custom designer jewelry.

The difference is you are a part of the creative process and the design of an original piece made to fit you. We all have jewelry living in our jewelry boxes that we just had to have and never wear for one reason or another. Custom designed jewelry isn’t too long or too short; it is comfortable to wear because it fits your body, your style and your personality.

Sound like a big deal? It’s not. Sound expensive? Not necessarily; however, if you choose expensive components,

Three Monkeys

BEADERY

threemonkeys@centurytel.net

235 East Cherry St, Troy, MO

636-528-7786

The possibilities are endless!

We offer a variety of fashion & bridal jewelry, classes, & great selection to make your own jewelry.

jewelry

Pilbara Picasso Jasper is a new material that is beautifully patterned.

It comes from one locality in Australia and only a limited quantity is available from the mine. The colors are varied as are the patterns, but this material is sure to cut an interesting stone. Pilbara Picasso Jasper tends to be fractured. Therefore, it rarely cuts large slabs or spheres. then yes, it will be expensive but that decision is yours. Sound like fun? Yes, it is definitely fun! Whether you bring in your ideas or your entire wardrobe to coordinate with, the most important part of having custom jewelry made is that you never have to settle for jewelry that is “kind of, sort of “ what you were looking for. Custom jewelry is exactly what you were looking for because you helped design it and because it is made to fit YOU. Three Monkeys Beadery at 235 E. Cherry Street in Troy has been designing custom jewelry for brides and their wedding parties for the past 4 years and have over 100 satisfied brides to their credit.

Adding to their reputation they have designed an exclusive line of wedding jewelry for The Wedding Shoppe in Troy and accessorized models for 3 separate magazine layouts. The designers at Three Monkeys Beadery, Paula Nakajima and Lisa Meyer, have an every growing client list of women they personally design and create custom jewelry for and this is a large part of their business.

So if you think custom designed jewelry is for you, stop in at Three Monkeys Beadery and talk to Paula or Lisa and they will be happy to help you. Three Monkeys Beadery also does jewelry box make overs, taking all the jewelry living, dying or already dead in your jewelry box and giving it new life by repairing, restoring, recreating and updating it. With the times the way they are, updating your jewelry can bring new life to your wardrobe with the expense of new clothes.

FALL/WINTER 2009

impulse 58

Bride’ s Guide Flowers Your Way on Your Day

flowers

Aside from the bouquet you spring for each Mother’s Day, chances are you are a novice when it comes to flowers. However, now you are a bride–to–be planning your dream wedding, and suddenly you must make decisions on bouquets, boutonnieres, reception centerpieces and ceremony arrangements. Overwhelming? We know. Fortunately, the team of professional florists at Charlottes’s Flowers & Gifts by Brenda Rose can help guide you through this process so you can enjoy planning your wedding flowers without wilting from the stress.

Located at the old Scholeman dry cleaners building at the corner of 2nd street and Wood street in downtown Troy, Charlotte’s Flowers is owned by Brenda Rose Linton. Brenda is a graduate of Sanford Brown and La Beau Floral Design School. Charlotte’s specializes in all your wedding floral needs; with a full service flower shop they can cater to funerals, birthdays, get wells, thank you, and bouquets for just any occasion.

Charlotte’s Flowers’ goal is to work with each bride closely to satisfy their taste and create uniquely designed wedding flowers. They will work with any budget and their wedding consultations are always free. “No job is too big or too small. We can do any type of wedding from traditional to trendy,” says Brenda, who has owned Charlotte’s Flowers and Gifts for six years.

The team at Charlotte’s Flowers is continually taking courses to develop their skills and keep up with the latest fashion trends. They want their brides to trust them to express the bride’s wedding visions. The friendly, helpful and trained staff can assist in realizing that vision from planning to the wedding day.

“It’s always best to start planning early to ensure you get the flowers you want. We strive to continue our commitment to the brides, “Flowers your way for you special day,” says Brenda.

Charlotte’s Flowers and Gifts services and delivers to Lincoln, St. Charles, Warren and parts of Pike counties. Also, they provide Tele-Flora wiring of bouquets to anywhere in the US or internationally.

To keep up with the newest wedding styles, Brenda works closely with the other wedding vendors in Troy, such as, The Wedding Shoppe, Garden Gate Party Rental, Three Monkey’s Beadery, Sweets to Remember, and others. They are flexible to work with your schedule for evening and weekend appointments.

“We make special arrangements so we can work closely with your wedding plans,” Brenda adds.

“Our flowers are second to none as we always provide arrangements of dazzling design and outstanding quality.

Flowers are shipped in direct from South America,” she says.

Brenda is a life long resident of Troy and is proud to serve her community in many ways. Brenda wants to thank her family, friends and customers for their continued loyalty and support.

“God has blessed my life with something I love to do and I am truly thankful for that,” she states. “Flowers are a perfect gift for any occasion. When you think of flowers, think of ours.”

Charlotte’s Flowers and Gifts by Brenda Rose can be contacted at 636-528-8511 and can be reached on the web at www.charlottesflowersandgifts.com

FALL/WINTER 2009

When You Think of Flowers, Think of Ours!

Your Wedding Design Floral Specialist

Charlotte’s Flowers & Gifts

By Brenda Rose

201B East Wood St. TROY, MO

(636) 528-8511

charlottesflowersandgifts.com

impulse 59

Bride’s Guide

jewelry

Choosing the Right Diamond When choosing a diamond to put a sparkle in someone’s eyes, it pays to be an educated consumer.

Many people believe that as long as they purchase a “certified” diamond they are buying a quality stone, but that is not necessarily true.

“There are more certified low quality diamonds in the marketplace than ever in the history of the diamond industry,” said Randy Hudson, who opened Randy’s Jewelry in O’Fallon 28 years ago.

In August of 1987, Randy and Nick opened Lincoln County Jewelers at the corner of Main and Cherry Street in Troy to bring the level of service that made Randy’s famous to the residents of Lincoln and adjoining counties. Nick Poetz, who has over thirty seven years of experience making jewelry operates the Troy store. Bob Tiemann, the third partner helps Randy operate their flagship O’Fallon store.

“The average quality of diamonds that people are consuming has plummeted, and almost always because of the lack of education the consumer can be deceived.

A high quality diamond is not only a beautiful gift, it is

We Make Quality

Affordable

an investment that in 10 years might double or even triple in value,” Randy said.

The best way to learn about diamonds is to visit reputable merchants who are willing to share their expertise. When considering a stone, ask for the precise quality, based on “the four C’s,” - clarity, color, cut and carat weight. ”A poorly cut diamond can diminish the price of a stone by 25-30 percent,” Randy said. To determine clarity, find a jeweler who can plot the stone and point out its imperfections. Determining color requires comparing the stone to either a certified stone or to master color grading stone. Carat weight is the weight of the diamond and is not necessarily a reflection of its size.

Randy also noted that not all certified diamonds are the same, because some gemologists grade diamonds higher than they should. He recommends looking for diamonds certified by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or European Gem Laboratories USA (EGL USA).

“If you have questions about a diamond and the person selling it doesn’t have the answers, go somewhere else,” Randy said. “It all goes back to trusting the people that you are buying from. That’s how you buy diamonds.”

With customers coming from Troy, Warrenton, Bowling Green, Silex, Winfield, Eolia and from a fifty mile radius around Troy, Lincoln County Jewelers have created a very loyal following. Whether it is an engagement ring, a wedding ring or an anniversary bracelet, these talented jewelers can satisfy the tastes of the most discriminating clients, and do so very competitively.

“If you don’t see it, ask us, either we can get it or make it for you. Our prices are much better than our competitors because we do not believe in

overcharging our clients,” stated Nick.

Ask us about upgradable diamonds.

Corner of Main St. and Cherry I Troy, Missouri 636-462-4444 Hours: Tues-Fri 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sat 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The jewelers at both Randy’s Jewelry and Lincoln County Jewelry harbor immense knowledge and experience of the jewelry industry and they are always ready to share. Their depth of expertise allows their shoppers to make educated decisions about that very important purchase.

Randy’s Jewelry is located at 309 Main Street in O’Fallon and can be contacted at 636-978-1953.

Holiday hours (Thanksgiving to Christmas) 9am to 8pm M-F and 9am to 4pm Saturday & Sunday.

Lincoln County Jewelers is located on the corner of Main & Cherry Street in Troy and can be contacted at 636-462-4444 and are open Tu-F 9am to 6pm, Saturday 9am-4pm and closed Sunday & Monday. They are always available on the web at www.randys-jewelry.com.

Bride’s Guide

gowns

Finding the Perfect Dress

Getting married? Looking for that perfect bridal gown? Whether you are looking for couture gowns, destination gowns, gowns of silk, satin or chiffon, full ball gowns, drop waist or even delicate lace, The Wedding Shoppe in Troy can help you find the right bridal gown for your special occasion.

Since their opening The Wedding Shoppe has served thousands of brides and quite deservedly has become the region’s premier destination for everything related to wedding. Their new and expanded location in down town Troy at 460 Main Street has much to offer to brides to be. The Wedding Shoppe is a family owned bridal salon, owned and operated by mother, daughter and grandmother team Angie Ruckel, Candi Wolford and Lorene Friend, “We are a full service bridal salon, dedicated to giving personal service in a boutique atmosphere. This is the only bridal store in the area. The Wedding Shoppe provides everything a bride need to plan their wedding,” said Angie.

They carry a large selection of bridal gowns in a variety of colors and styles. In addition to bridal gowns, they also carry bridesmaid dresses, flower girl dresses, tuxedos, and accessories.

“We specialize in helping with all of the bride’s selections and offer our services on their wedding day to help dress the bride and prepare her to walk down the aisle,” added Angie.

Their customers particularly notice a more relaxed atmosphere to shop in. The dressing rooms offer robes so brides can choose dresses without having to redress. Brides can either shop by appointments or just stop in and no one is turned away.

Brides can also reserve private wine and cheese parties after hours on Saturday evenings. These parties allow the bride and bridal party to have the entire store to them. Wine and cheese are provided with fruit, chocolates and special little desserts.

Need a Tux? Don’t know where to go for the perfect fitting tuxedo to make you look like a million bucks. Head to The Wedding Shoppe, you will find the very best selection in formal wear.

With three different tuxedo companies, they offer the largest selection of tuxes, vests and ties and colors in the area. Because of the sheer numbers of colors they have they can match almost every color of bridesmaid colors.

The Wedding Shoppe offers free grooms tux program and yearly specials all at competitive pricing.

A special mother-daughter team, both Angie and Candi enjoy helping brides look their very best. “This is a very important time in the bride and groom’s life but this can also be a stressful time. We try to give everyone time to make their choices and offer them advice when needed,” said Candi.

When asked about the goals for the Wedding Shoppe, Angie said, “We want our bridal salon to grow and fit the needs of all brides. We strive to accommodate all types of weddings and budgets.”

In the spring The Wedding Shoppe was honored to find that the brides registered with “The Knot” had rated them and voted them The Knot Best of Weddings 2009. This is the largest website and magazine for brides across the United States. The Wedding Shoppe is one of only five bridal salons that were selected from the Saint Louis area. This is the second year the business has received this award.

Angie, Candi, and Lorene invite every bride and groom to make their appointment today and let them help plan your special day. The Wedding Shoppe is open Tuesday to Saturday and can be contacted at 636-5285647 and on the web at www.theweddingshoppetroy.com

Creating

romance from the moment the gown is tried on.

The Wedding Shoppe works with every bride to select the perfect wedding dress and all the extras.

We are here to help you plan your wedding and will be glad to help you dress on your wedding day.

460 Main St Troy, MO

636.528.5647

Bride’s Guide

nails

Get Pampered by the Pros.

Phil and Tonya Schmidt, owners of Nail Pro’s, located in Wentzville and Troy did not let the questionable economic climate stop them from launching the areas newest and largest nail salons.

Opened in November 2007, the Wentzville location of Nail Pro’s has catapulted itself to become a salon for fashion conscious women looking to beautify their appendages.

With nine state certified nail technicians and 16 luxurious pedicure chairs, the Wentzville Nail Pros, located at the Wal-Mart Plaza, is equipped to handle large groups from the largest of wedding parties to fun girls night out parties. “We are the premier nail salon in the area. When Tonya and I purchased the business, our goal was to give our customers, the best salon experience with superb atmosphere and utmost luxury. We renovated the entire salon and put in a beautiful waterfall and a 150 gallon salt water aquarium to set the mood for pampering,” said Phil.

They have achieved their goal, as evident from the terrific popularity that Nail Pros is enjoying with their attentive service and eye-catching designs. “We have a steady booking of wedding parties every week and our technicians are top rated nail artists.

They can design the most intricate and detailed designs that are sure to turn many heads,” Phil said.

Phil, a highly motivated serial entrepreneur attributes his success to his unrelenting passion for blazing ahead and his commitment to delivering high quality work.

Tonya and Phil make a great team. Tonya leads the Wentzville store and is there every day taking great care of their customers while Phil handles management, marketing and maintenance of both salons.

Phil is equally committed to his newest salon, the Troy Nail Pro’s, where you can find him from early mornings to late evenings making sure every customer leaves Nail Pros fully satisfied with their service.

Tracing his roots back to Troy, where he spent majority of his life, Phil said “I have a long emotional connection to Troy. I went to school and grew up here. When we opened our Wentzville store, we started seeing many people from Troy, Silex, Eolia and even Bowling Green coming to Wentzville for our services.”

“I have always wanted to get back to my roots in Troy and opening the Troy Nail Pros was my way of meeting the demand and reconnecting with the town I love,” Phil stated.

The Troy location of Nail Pros is located at 165 North Lincoln Drive, right behind the Domino’s Pizza, in a brand new building. “We have eight pedicure lounges here and have several nail stations.

We are proud to have in our team an exceptional nail technician who I could boast is the very best tech in a forty mile radius. She has built a great reputation for creating both attractive and uncommon designs,” Phil said.

The newly established Troy salon is already slated for expansion to provide better and increased services to their clientele.

“We have a strict policy to speak English here so we can

communicate effectively with our clients and ensure their satisfaction.

Our clients can choose from a number of state certified and licensed technicians. They are welcome to find a technician they like more and ask for them exclusively when they return,” he explained.

According to Phil, attending to his client’s needs is his prime duty. “I am here all the time to listen to any suggestions or comments that my clients have. They are free to bring to my ear any questions, feedback and ideas. I encourage them to do that and we have been able to make improvements due to their suggestions,” he added.

“The residents of the areas we serve have shown tremendous support and patronage to our business and we are equally grateful,” said Phil and Tonya. Phil and Tonya are proud parents to three beautiful children, Miranda, Devan and Alayna.

Nail Pros is open seven days a week, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Walk ins and appointments are welcome. Mention this article to receive $5 off Full Set or Pedicure. Nail Pro’s can be reached at 636528-6999 or 636-327-8889.

Your

specialist for

Manicures & Pedicures.

Invite the whole Bridal Party...

We have a relaxed environment for your wedding party. Bring your own snacks,drinks, cake etc.

BRIDE SPECIALS :

Receive a Full Set FREE when you bring in 7+ girls.

Receive Full Set & Pedicure FREE when you bring in 12+ girls.

Full Service Nail Salon

(636) 528-6999 • 165 N. Lincoln Dr. • Troy, MO (behind KFC in Troy) • nailprosoftroy@centurytel.net Hours M-F 9am-7:30 pm • Sat 9am-7pm • Sun 10am-6pm

FALL/WINTER 2009

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