Thankful for a connected community
Did you know that Aspens grow as a community? They are interconnected at their roots and share resources to support each other. The world’s largest aspen community is called Pando, located in Fishlake National Forest in Utah.
The cover photo is a painting of Aspens by local artist Mary Hanson. This original painting is one of the many works of art featured in the 3rd annual Art with a Purpose Show and Raffle (see page 10) benefiting Circle of Concern and the Honor Flight Network - a national organization that transports American Veterans to Washington, D.C., to honor their service and sacrifice for our country. Veterans Day is Monday, November 11. Veteran Eric Bronner, Webster Groves resident and founder of the non-profit group Veterans for All Voters (see page 16), reminds us that veterans continue to be a vibrant group of servant leaders on a mission to advocate for everyone.
My favorite quote from this issue is from Julie Mosby, who talked about the deeprooted dogwood trees on page 36. “We are cheering them along because they are valuable and need some love.” If cheering for trees helps them grow, imagine what cheering for each other can do. I am thankful for our connected community.
RENEE
MOORE, PUBLISHER
November 2024
PUBLISHER
Renee Moore | renee.moore@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Kate Berry
INTERNS
Olivia Silvey, Lilly Anderson
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Lilly Anderson, Olivia Silvey, Lucy Rogers
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Chris Hayes, Carey Campbell
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
Our motto is “Expect the Exceptional,” and exceptional is exactly what you can expect when you visit our new Audi Exchange Kirkwood facility. Our stunning showroom allows you to explore the latest Audi models, so you can find the perfect Audi to fit your lifestyle. Our team of highly trained Audi experts are dedicated to providing you exceptional service, ensuring your experience is tailored to your unique needs and preferences. Come in today and experience the exceptional at Audi Exchange Kirkwood.
ART with a purpose
Benefiting Circle of Concern and the Honor Flight Network
ARTICLE BY LUCY ROGERS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
MARY HANSON, KIRKWOOD ARTIST
The 3rd Annual Art with a Purpose Show & Raffle will be held on Sunday, November 3, from 1 - 4 pm at American Legion Post 156 on 314 S. Clay Ave. in Kirkwood. Art on display for the raffle includes paintings, drawings, sculptures, fiber, and wood from local artists. Raffle tickets are $40; all proceeds benefit the Circle of Concern and the Honor Flight Network.
The Greatest Generation
VETERANS, THEN AND NOW, CONTINUE TO DEFINE COMMUNITY AND COLLABORATION.
PHOTOGRAPHY
ARTICLE AND
BY OLIVIA SILVEY
The men who define the Greatest Generation are connected by their unwavering sense of community, duty, resilience, and resolution. As veterans, they served with courage. At home, they contributed to industrial efforts and ushered in a period of unprecedented economic growth and innovation. The values they embody — hard work, integrity, and responsibility — have left an indelible mark on subsequent generations, earning them the fitting title of the Greatest Generation. As we honor all our veterans on Monday, November 11, we are thankful for how they continue building bridges to create a bonded community.
At Cape Albeon, a lakeside retirement living community off Big Bend Road, a group of men have created something unique. What started as a few veterans meeting for donuts and coffee has evolved into a gathering of over a dozen men who come together each week to share stories, talk about current events, and solidify friendships.
“We may have different backgrounds but are similar in many ways. We want to help everyone feel like they are a part of the group.”
“Veterans
for All Voters offers them a mission —an opportunity to be part of the solution, advocating for reforms that strengthen the voices of everyone.”
- Eric Bronner, Co-Founder of Veterans for All Voters
Eric Bronner
Photo Credit: Veterans for All Voters
Lam Padberg, one of the group’s founding members and a resident of Cape Albeon for over eight years, recalled how this active group began. “The men’s group started over twelve years ago. It was a couple of guys getting together for coffee in the morning, grabbing donuts, and chatting for an hour or so,” he said. “Eventually, the dining room director said, ‘If you guys are meeting every week, I’ll make sure you’ve got fresh coffee and some donuts or rolls.’
From there, it grew. We started with about three or four guys; our biggest group is about 18.”
Bill Ehrs fondly remembers his first experience with the group. “I was invited to join when I first came here. Coming into a new community is hard if you don’t know anybody. This group is a great way to feel like you belong,” he said. Bill’s experience speaks to the men’s deep care for one another. “I was involved in a serious car accident last November. The men’s group signed all their names on the back of a letter and sent it to me… I can’t tell you what that meant.”
The meetings are simple in format but rich in connection. “We get together, talk about current events, tell jokes, and just get to know each other,” said Lam. “This morning, two new men told us a bit about their backgrounds. It’s how we hit the ground running with new guys.”
The group also plays an important role in connecting the community to Cape Albeon’s resident council. Cape Albeon is unique because residents have a bridge between management and council members. Lam explained that the men’s group often discusses council matters, helping those who may not attend meetings stay informed. With several council members attending the men’s group, it’s become an informal way to bring issues forward.
Charles Schafer, another active member, sees the Men’s Group as a reflection of the deep sense of connection that Cape Albeon fosters. “It’s a caring community,” he said. “We may have different backgrounds but are similar in many ways. We want to help everyone feel like they are a part of the group.”
These men, who have experienced so many challenges and changes throughout their lifetime, are inspirational as they intentionally come together to build community and create change.
Veterans are recognized for their sense of community, dedication to charitable causes, and civic service. They are some of America’s most trusted voices. U.S. Navy veteran and Webster Groves resident Eric Bronner works with veterans of all ages from across the country to intersect patriotism with civic duty. The result is that veterans are once again on the frontline, creating a positive change through collaborative innovation.
CONTINUED >
After being inspired by a Freakonomics podcast titled America’s Hidden Duopoly, Eric felt compelled to be a change agent. “The podcast highlighted the lack of healthy electoral competition in almost 90% of our elections, from a business perspective,” said Eric. This inspiration led to the formation of Veterans for All Voters, a nonpartisan 503(c)(3) organization that engages the innate desire of veterans to continue serving their country. The organization emphasizes the need for a unified effort to improve how America engages with its voting process, ensuring everyone’s voice is heard, regardless of political affiliation.
As the Co-Founder and COO of Veterans for All Voters, Eric is a nationally recognized leader in election reform and holds a J.D. from Washington University in St. Louis. Veterans for All Voters harnesses the credibility of veterans to promote meaningful change that transcends political parties. Its mission is not to support candidates but to reform the voting process, ensuring a fairer, more inclusive system. Over 50% of military veterans are independent voters who want to vote for the best candidate, regardless of party affiliation. That’s the mission of Veterans for All Voters.”
What sets Veterans for All Voters apart is its focus on fostering a community of problem solvers. The veterans involved, often individuals with young families and small businesses, seek a platform that allows them to contribute without being tied to a specific political ideology. Veterans for All Voters offers them a mission—an opportunity to be part of the solution, advocating for reforms that strengthen the voices of everyone. The organization builds bridges across political divides by mobilizing veterans to champion these voting reforms and instills hope for a more united, collaborative future.
“Veterans want a mission. They’re hungry to keep serving their country,” said Eric. “Most of our volunteers have never been politically engaged. They don’t want to have to sign up for the red or blue teams when we all should be on the red, white, and blue team.”
At its core, Veterans for All Voters poses a profound question they borrowed from a new documentary, “ Majority Rules ” - What if changing how we vote could change everything?
Learn more at https://www.veteransforallvoters.org/
Photo Credit: Veterans for All Voters
HOME TEAM ADVANTAGE
ARTICLE
| PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS HAYES SCOTT AND WENDY COMBS TALK ABOUT WHAT IT TAKES TO BUILD A WINNING TEAM
BY
LILLY ANDERSON
The story of this iconic third-generation auto and tire shop reads like a playbook straight off a coach’s desk. Sitting in the lobby of Combs Auto and Tire, decorated from floor to ceiling with local sports memorabilia, owners Scott and Wendy Combs talk about what it takes to develop a winning team. As avid sports fans, Scott and Wendy’s core values underscore teamwork, offensive play, and defensive strategy, which can be summarized as “taking it one shift at a time” and “keeping your head on a swivel.”
FIRST-ROUND DRAFT PICK
Admittedly, Scott is not a car guy. His dad, Bill Combs, wasn’t a car guy, and Scott’s son Cameron, who works in the shop, has a biology degree from UM-Rolla. “Nobody wants us working on their cars,” laughed Scott. “We have surrounded ourselves with top technicians who are car guys. Patrick, John, Kyle, and Blake are the experts,” he said. “Through osmosis and standing here for the last 35 years listening to service techs talk with customers, I’ve learned enough to be knowledgeable, but those guys are top draft picks. They fix cars, but they also take the time to talk to people about things other than cars. Encouraging this type of “huddle-up” mindset is something that I learned from watching my dad as he built this business.”
LINE CHANGE
Bill Combs, founder of Comb’s Auto and Tire, worked as an accountant in the corporate world for much of his career, most notably as CFO for the St. Louis Blues. He then made a line change, deciding to become an owner of a business everyone needs - car repair. Realizing that winning in business isn’t easy, Bill discovered that one of the keys to success is to show up and talk to people. Having an outgoing personality and being a super fan of St. Louis sports, Bill could easily talk with anyone about anything. And he did - six days a week for 10 hours a day. He spoke with customers, service technicians, industry suppliers, and office staff. “My dad started this business in 1985, faced challenges, and built a great business,” said Scott.
RUN/PASS OPTION
Scott graduated with a marketing degree from St. Louis University, where he met Wendy. After college, he worked at the Sporting News, and when that position ended, Bill said to Scott, “Come work at the shop. It may or may not be for you, but try working here.” Scott teamed up with his dad in 1992 and never looked back. “I can’t imagine myself doing anything else,” said Scott.
Scott’s taking auto and tire calls.
Wendy Combs
KEEP YOUR HEAD ON A SWIVEL
In hockey, this means staying alert and aware of everything happening around you. As a core value, it emphasizes being attentive, listening to others, and staying open to different perspectives. “What we do here has as much to do with people as it does with their cars. I’ve learned a lot about psychology and being aware of what’s happening in people’s lives,” said Scott. “Our service team typically chat with customers about their family, a community event, or a sports game. It’s an interesting dynamic to watch customers’ eyes light up when they get to talk with our service team and the technicians who worked on their cars. That is something I learned from watching and listening to my father. Now Cameron is watching, listening, and keeping his head on a swivel.”
ONE SHIFT AT A TIME
Customers remain loyal because they know they are deeply cared for. They’ll get an honest answer, and Scott, Wendy, or Cameron will make it right if something goes wrong. With their core value of ‘taking it one shift at a time”, Scott’s team uses the 3 C’s: Concern, Cause, and Correction for every customer. “Whether it’s a small fix or major repair, we treat each customer with the same level of respect and attention,” said Scott. “It all comes down to caring,” he said, underscoring Combs Auto and Tire’s fourth ‘C.’ “You never know what personal challenges people are facing. When your car breaks, the stress levels and complications are multiplied. We try to ease that part of the pain for people. It’s about taking one step at a time to consider a customer’s budget and mental space as we help them make good maintenance decisions for their car.
CALLING AN AUDIBLE
“Scott is a great listener,” said Wendy. “Everyone - men, women, seniors- feels comfortable talking with him because he treats them kindly. Even when people are frustrated or panicked, he’s calm and can hone in on exactly what they need so he can help.” Wendy said people often remark to her, “Your husband saved my life,” as she explained how Scott helped people who hit a curb, knocked their car out of alignment, backed into their garage; the list goes on. Recently, a woman called the shop in distress because her car didn’t have any oil, and she feared that driving it would result in costly damage to her car. Scott drove to the woman’s home and added a quart of oil to the car, ensuring that her car was ready to drive. The woman came into the shop bringing brownies and a heart full of gratitude. Wendy recounted when a 93-year-old man came in for a minor tire repair. “Scott could tell that the man would welcome someone to talk to, so Scott and the man spent 40 minutes conversing while phones were ringing off the hook.” Wendy also loves it when Scott stops to talk with the kids.
Scott Combs
MAN-TO-MAN
“The kids are great,” said Scott as he talked about all the kids who come into the shop asking for donations to their youth organizations. “We try to give a little bit to everyone. But they’ve got to talk with me, person to person. The kids are usually shy initially, but I try to put them at ease by asking about their season or the organization. It’s fun to see them come out of their shell.” As a community-forward, philanthropic company, Combs Auto and Tire has partnered with St. Vincent de Paul’s car program. “If someone is down on their luck, they’ll bring their car to us, and we’ll check it out. Transportation is something most of us take for granted. For many people, their car is their lifeline. We’re honored to help people get back on their feet through servicing their car,” said Scott.
PASS THE PUCK
Scott and Wendy discussed the changes they have seen since buying the business from Bill and Sunny Combs five years ago and how they collaborate on the transition as Cameron works toward owning the company. “Dealing with parents and customers and staff, being the owners’ son, has its challenges,” said Scott. “It took me a while to feel comfortable when I started working here. The key for me is instilling what my dad drilled into me: you show up, clean the bathrooms, and do all the jobs you ask the staff to do. You have to earn it. It’s exciting to see how focused Cameron is on making this business successful so our team and our customers’ families can thrive. That is something that my dad taught me at a very young age. Our team, customers, and community are at the core of everything we do. Few things have brought me as much joy as working and serving here.”
Sports memorabilia wall covers the wall at Combs
Cameron Combs
ARTICLE BY OLIVIA SILVEY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CITY OF KIRKWOOD
KYLE HENKE AND HIS PARKS & RECREATION TEAM WORK WHILE WE PLAY. AND HE WOULDN’T HAVE IT ANY OTHER WAY.
CREATING FAMILY MEMORIES
Kyle Henke at Fireman’s Park
Fully embracing outdoor adventure is not a requirement for the Parks and Recreation Director role, but having a spirit of discovery and vision for seeing opportunities instead of challenges is precisely why the city and the residents of Kirkwood are thankful Kyle Henke is leading the Parks and Recreation Department.
National Park, and Yellowstone and exploring the West. It was an incredible six-month experience.
CLEARLY, YOU THRIVE ON NEW EXPERIENCES. HOW DOES YOUR LOVE OF LEARNING ALIGN WITH BEING THE PARKS AND RECREATION DIRECTOR?
“PARKS & REC WORK WHILE OTHERS HAVE FUN - THAT’S WHAT I LOVE MOST.”
DESCRIBE THE BIG ADVENTURE YOU AND YOUR WIFE WENT ON DURING YOUR HONEYMOON IN TULUM, MEXICO.
Kyle: We loved Tulum from the moment we arrived. We ate fresh fish every night, met people from around the world, and explored the landscape. We did not want to leave. So, we didn’t. We spent three months traveling through Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, and Belize without a plan. It was fantastic. I highly recommend it. When we returned to the United States, we spent the next three months traveling through the Badlands, Glacier
Kyle: This job is more than running sports leagues and summer camps. It involves budgeting, managing staff, and understanding chemical systems, mechanical systems, architecture, facilities, landscapes, and even art sculptures. You have to know a little bit about each area. There is never a moment when I feel like I’m not learning something new. Also, the city has so many experts in their field who are willing to share their knowledge and information, which is another thing I thrive on—teamwork. My staff has a very team-oriented approach to accomplishing what the city needs from us.
CONTINUED >
WHAT WAS YOUR VISION FOR CREATING A COMMUNITY CENTER FOR THE CITY?
Kyle: I like this question because it’s not about me and my vision. This is truly the staff’s vision. My staff wanted to see this building evolve. They prioritized updating spaces and technology – we will have wifi for the first time ever! We will have one front desk for the entire building, easing confusion. Our new Movement Studio will free up the gym for other activities. The new building offers flexible space for businesses to use for meetings or for people who want to teach a variety of classes. We want it to feel like a community center, not just a building, so we’ve added multiple gathering spaces.
AS A KIRKWOOD RESIDENT AND THE PARKS DIRECTOR, WHAT HAVE YOU COME TO LOVE ABOUT THIS COMMUNITY?
Kyle: For starters, the pool. So many kids grow up going to Kirkwood Pool –that’s their childhood. I get to see them create some of their best memories. There is also the Turkey Day run, the 4th of July Celebration, and Greentree
Kirkwood Aquatic Center
New art sculpture at Kirkwood Performing Arts Center
“WE’RE CREATING LONG-LASTING MEMORIES FOR FAMILIES.”
Festival. The parks and recreation team works while others have fun, but for me, that’s what I love most. We’re creating long-lasting memories for families rather than just providing something for the community to do.
WHAT EVENT DO YOU WISH MORE PEOPLE KNEW ABOUT?
Kyle: The Kirkwood Arts Commission Making Music Concert Series has a concert on the deck on Walker Lake in the fall. We are also working on a master plan that allows residents to provide input on parks and recreation. Also, people don’t know there are 14 parks in Kirkwood.
WHAT IS THE MOST UNDERUTILIZED PARK?
Kyle: Fireman’s Park, located behind Firehouse #2 on Big Bend Road.
For more information about Kirkwood Parks and Recreation Department visit kirkwoodparksandrec.org
Making Music Concert Series
Turkey Day Run
Kyle in the new community center
KIRKWOOD REMEMBERS THE MAN BEHIND GREENTREE’S MUSICAL TALENT
Bob Mosby is known for booking Greentree Festival’s best up-and-coming bands. But he had some help. “Bruce Canan was all about music. As a lifelong musician, he mentored many local bands, including one of Greentree’s most popular bands, Falling Fences,” said Bob. “Bruce and I developed the concept of booking bands for Greentree that only play original music.” Today, bands from around the region aspire to play on Greentree’s Main Stage. Bruce Canan, or Coach Canan as he was more affectionately known, passed away on June 7th. Bob Mosby dedicated Greentree’s main stage to Coach Canan, one of Kirkwood’s unassuming volunteers and unsung heroes.
Bob Mosby honors Coach Canan at Greetree
PERFORMANCES
warm the soul
WINTER OPERA ST. LOUIS OPENS AT KIRKWOOD PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
ARTICLE BY LILLY ANDERSON
PHOTOGRAPHY BY WINTER OPERA
Winter Opera Saint Louis is poised for a transformative 18th season thanks to the generous contribution from the Preston M. Green Charitable Foundation. The opera company acquired a 13,000-square-foot building in Creve Coeur that will house Winter Opera St. Louis’ operations, rehearsal space, costume, prop and set storage, alterations and costume design, and a dedicated community space for regional artists and musicians. Aptly named the Preston M. Green Winter Opera St. Louis Arts Center, this new
building at 1283 Research Boulevard in Creve Coeur is set to become a cultural hub. The new space opens up opportunities for greater community engagement, as local arts groups are invited to utilize the facility to enrich their performances.
The vision for the future of Winter Opera St. Louis extends beyond entertainment; it’s about impact. The opera’s efforts to engage children, including those with disabilities, promise to bring joy and smiles through the power of music and singing. This commitment to inclusivity and community truly distinguishes Winter Opera St. Louis as a beacon of cultural enrichment with performances that warm the soul.
Winter Opera St. Louis’ 18th season opens at the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center at 210 E. Monroe Ave. in Kirkwood, MO.
Gilbert & Sullivan’s H.M.S. Pinafore (The Lass That Loved a Sailor) vibrant performances are on November 8th and 10th. This family-friendly show promises delightful music and comedic dialogue, ensuring a fun experience for all ages.
Anna Bolena by Gaetano Donizetti makes its debut performance in St. Louis on January 17th and 19th. Experience the rich, beautiful music of this tragic opera.
Perhaps the most anticipated production of the season is The Magic Flute ( Die Zauberflöte). Known for its mystical storyline and iconic Mozart scores, this opera will be sung in German with English dialogue, making it accessible to a broad audience. Performances are February 28th and March 2nd.
“Gilbert & Sullivan’s H.M.S. Pinafore vibrant performances are on November 8th and 10th.”
Rooted in Community
ARTICLE BY LUCY ROGERS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAREY CAMPBELL
The fountain in Argonne Alley Plaza in the Downtown Special Business District serves as a memorial dedicated to the memory of Sgt. Kenneth Bisso, who served in the Kirkwood Police Department for 26 years. Julie Mosby and her team at Julie’s Garden have donated their time, talents, and treasured plants to this small city space. “This is my turn to do something for this city that I love,” said Julie. “We designed, planted, and continue to maintain this lovely little garden. There are old dogwood trees with deep roots that we are cheering along because they are valuable and need some love.”
Julie said this space symbolizes our community because we all grow together.
Julie Mosby
fish for families
THESE NUTRITIOUS, EASY, AND DELICIOUS SEAFOOD RECIPES ARE OFF THE HOOK!
ARTICLE BY KATIE MACKENZIE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAREY CAMPBELL
Many of my clients say they love ordering seafood when they go out to eat. I LOVE sharing easy and delicious seafood recipes as healthy, make-at-home dinner options. Regularly consuming well-prepared seafood benefits your brain, heart, waistline, and muscles. Seafood is an excellent, high-protein, lower-calorie, nutrient-dense, omega-3-loaded food. However, finding restaurant-quality, cook-athome seafood was challenging until I discovered that City Seafood delivers freshcut fish fillets directly to your front door, making it easy to build your own box or choose from their curated options.
Everyone can serve a fantastic fish dish for their family dinner. This sheet pan meal is a go-to in my house for a quick, easy dinner with something for everyone.
ingredients
• 1 - 2 lb Salmon fillets (cod or halibut can be substituted)
• 2 bunch broccoli stems removed and cut into florets
• 1 cup thinly sliced carrots
• 6 T BSP coconut oil
• 4 heaping TBSP freshly minced garlic (about 8 cloves)
• s alt and pepper to taste
• 2 lemons sliced
• non-stick cooking spray
directions
1. P reheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Line a large sheet pan with aluminum foil for easy cleanup, and place Salmon on one end of the pan.
3. M ix minced garlic and coconut oil in a bowl.
4. Brush about 2 TBSP of the mixture over the Salmon.
5. M ix the remaining oil mixture and veggies to coat the veggies. Then, spread the veggies on the other side of the pan.
6. Sprinkle salt and pepper over the Salmon and veggies to taste.
7. Place lemon slices over the Salmon. Spread the rest around the sheet pan.
8. Bake for 15-18 minutes, depending on the thickness of the Salmon.
9. Serve with a small ‘sample’ serving of quinoa or rice.
HERE ARE OTHER HEALTHY SEAFOOD IDEAS FOR FAMILY DINNERS.
Shrimp Tacos / Fish Tacos
• W hy it’s great: Fun to assemble and perfect for a casual family dinner where everyone can add their favorite toppings.
Fish Sticks (Homemade)
• W hy it’s great: Kids love these, and they are a healthier alternative to store-bought fish sticks.
Seafood Paella
• W hy it’s great: A flavorful one-pan dish that’s filling and makes for great leftovers.
Seafood Salad
• W hy it’s great : Quick, easy, and perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
Follow @ktelizabethwellness for more healthy, family-friendly recipes.
ROASTED LEMON GARLIC SALMON WITH BROCCOLI
AND CARROTS
Cooking With Fresh Herbs
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD| PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Garlic Herb Butter
This butter is versatile and goes with just about anything. You can use this on top of bread, popcorn, veggies, as a sandwich spread and more.
Ingredients
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 4 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon herb of your choice (dill, basil or oregano are my go-to herbs.)
• 1 clove garlic, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• cracked pepper to taste
Process
Add all ingredients in a food processor (or mix by hand in a bowl). Transfer butter mixture on parchment paper or plastic wrap. Cover butter tightly and roll into a log. Place in refrigerator until firm. Enjoy!
