Our Town: June 2023

Wendy Todd started out as a culture blogger then began freelancing as a culture and lifestyle writer. She has written for publications including the Washington Post, Huffington Post Ebony. com, the Sundance Channel and more. Currently she is also a full-time public relations and news writer at a St. Louis university.

David Finkelstein is a Master/Skill Automotive Service Technician, maintaining that role for over 45 years, coupled with being a shop owner in that time frame as well. He’s also invented a number of garage service tools for mechanics and has served on both National as well as local Automotive Trade Industry Boards. Additionally, he pioneered “Car Talk Radio” over 40 years ago, starting out with KMOX/CBS Radio as well as hosted “Auto Talk” on KFTK/FOX News Radio for some 15-years. David tests and evaluates new vehicles weekly and also does some consulting with various auto manufacturers, both import as well as with domestic nameplates.

Born and raised in South St. Louis, Steve Bryan is now based in Anaheim, California, and has been allowed access to movie and television sets to see actors and directors at work. Though his writing has taken him far from St. Louis, Steve is, at heart, still the same wide-eyed kid who spent countless hours watching classic mov ies at neighborhood theaters.

Cindy Moore is the mother of three superlative kids, servant of two self-indulgent felines and wife to one nifty husband. Her ficticious occupation? Archeological Humorist: someone who unearths absurdity and hilarity in strange and unusual places including public restrooms, the lint filter, and church meetings. Most recently, she excavated a find in her neighbor’s bird feeder.

Avalanche is a functional illiterate who left the St. Louis area three decades ago in search of adventure. He enjoys motorcycling and all things outdoors. He lives with his wife and dogs.

our toWn

Volume 14 | Number 6

JUNE 2023

Published by the Community News, Our Town is a monthly news magazine covering the cities of Creve Coeur, Maryland Heights, and Olivette. Circulation is 7,000 monthly through over 105 monitored newsstands guaranteeing 100% pickup. Additional issues are distributed online, and a free online subscription is available at www.mycnews. com

Around Town

2023 air quality forecasting season kicks off with latest ‘State of the Air’ report and more.

PUBLISHER/EDITOR IN CHIEF

Mathew DeKinder

PUBLISHER EMERITUS/ GENERAL MANAGER

Bob Huneke

PRODUCTION

Becky Brockmann

Melissa Nordmann

CONTRIBUTORS

Avalanche, David Finkelstein, Cindy Moore

STAFF WRITERS

Brett Auten

Wendy Todd

For advertising information, please contact us at: info@mycnews.com or

Community News

2139 Bryan Valley Commercial Dr. O’Fallon, MO 63366

Ph: 636.379.1775

Fx: 636.379.1632

www.mycnews.com

Copyright 2022

Huneke Publications, Inc.

Feature

A Juneteenth celebration

The third Juneteenth Celebration in the Delmar Loop will take place on June 10 to commemorate the holiday.

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Our Thoughts

Moore on Life author Cindy Moore has to deal with the shame of a towel mixup while Avalanche navigates the back roads in the mountains.

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Lifestyle

The 2023 Jeep Wagoneer brings upscale luxury to the SUV market in Automobile Alley. A look at the long career of Henry Winkler in Entertainment. Fresh summer flavors fit for the patio in For the Love of Food. In Depth

St. Louis County Children’s Service Fund brings attention and services to the mental health needs of children across St. Louis County.

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A CLEAN COMFORT

The St. Louis Area Diaper Bank works to distribute diapers and period supplies to low-income populations across the region

The annual cost to diaper a child is about $1,000 and period supplies cost nearly $500 each year. There are currently no public benefit programs to cover these costs for those who cannot afford the expenses. That’s where the St. Louis Diaper Bank steps in, supplying mothers and caregivers diapers and period supplies for those in need.

The high cost of diapers and period supplies is a challenge for low-income populations and those in poverty, yet the items remain as essential needs in terms of health and personal dignity. For families that cannot regularly afford diapers, the alternatives pose hygiene and health risks.

“One in three families are routinely unable to afford diapers, leaving them with little option but to reuse diapers by lining them with newspapers, scraping them “clean” or repairing them with duct tape,” said St. Louis Area Diaper Bank executive director, Muriel Smith. “Infants require up to 12 diapers a day and toddlers need about eight. Disposable diapers cost between $70 to $80 per month for each child. Many low-income families frequently choose between buying diapers, putting food on the table, paying the rent or keeping utilities on.

“Many of these families also lack the

transportation to go to big box stores and buy in bulk and must instead rely on more expensive small, local convenience stores. As a result, many low-income families spend a larger percentage of their income on diapers than wealthier families.”

According to the National Center for Children in Poverty, in 2015, almost half of U.S. families with one or more babies of diapering age were living at or below 200% of the federal poverty level.

Children of color are the largest group among families living in poverty. Among children under 18 living at or below 100% the federal poverty level, this includes 31% of Black children and 23% of Hispanic children, as compared to 10% of white children in the United States.

Adding to the cost of diapers is the additional 4.225% tax on top of the regular sales tax as diapers are considered a luxury item in Missouri. By eliminating sales tax, families would be able to save $100 or more annually when they have to purchase these items. Diaper banks in Missouri are working to exempt diapers from sales tax.

While the St. Louis area Diaper Bank was established in 2014 to help those who need diapers, the period supply program

AroundTown

began in 2019 to help address the ongoing need associated with poverty and the ability to afford adequate supplies.

According to National Organization for Women, as of January 2021, the average cost of menstrual products was $20 per cycle, before inflation hit decade-highs. The total cost added up to an estimated $200 to $300 per year and thousands of dollars over the course of a lifetime.

St. Louis Diaper Bank distributes period kits through schools and partner organizations including six St. Louis County Library branches (Florissant Valley, Grand Glaize, Indian Trails, Lewis and Clark, Natural Bridge and Weber Road) and two St. Louis Public Library branches (Central Library and Julia Davis).

The St. Louis Diaper Bank is the only organization attacking diaper need and period poverty on a large scale in the St. Louis region.

The organization is hosting its second annual benefit concert Sept. 21,

and hopes to raise $32,500 for its programs. The concert will feature JAM: Jackson & MARS, a high-energy live band and production that showcases music by Michael Jackson and Bruno Mars. The band includes a Michael Jackson impersonator plus Bruno Mars’ look-alike who will perform 40 songs spanning 40 years. The evening includes drinks, hors d’oeuvres, a silent auction and raffle.

General admission tickets are $65 per person, and the VIP experience, which begins at 6 p.m. and includes a pre-show open bar and hors d’oeuvres, is $115 per person.

This year the St. Louis Area Diaper Bank, through a network of 70 community organizations, educational and health partners serving lowincome families will distribute 4.1 million diapers to more than 70,000 families in the St. Louis region.

For more information about the fundraiser and sponsorship opportunities, call 314-624-0888 or visit https://stldiaperbank.org/.

Volunteers work to pack and distribute diapers and period supplies to those in need through the St. Louis Area Diaper Bank.

‘COMFORT’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4

Fresh air

2023 air quality forecasting season kicks off with latest ‘State of the Air’ report

As daily air quality forecasting makes its return for the 2023 season May 1, the American Lung Association’s latest “State of the Air” report finds that, after decades of progress on cleaning up sources of air pollution, nearly 36% of Americans –119.6 million people – still live in places with failing grades for unhealthy levels of ozone or particle pollution. While ozone air pollution remains a serious threat to public health, this is 17.6 million fewer people breathing unhealthy air compared to the years covered by the 2022 report (2018-2020), which reinforces the trend

in this year’s “State of the Air” report is continuing in a more positive direction.

For the seventh consecutive year, the St. Louis region escaped being ranked among the top 25 most ozone-polluted cities in the U.S., coming in at number 35 on the list out of 227 metropolitan areas. The area ranked 27th on the list for most polluted cities by year-round particle pollution, which is back three spots from the previous year.

The most up-to-date report findings have added to the evidence that a changing climate is making it harder to protect

human health, with the three years included in this year’s report (2019-2021) ranking among the seven hottest years on record globally. Therefore, high ozone days and spikes in particle pollution related to heat, drought and wildfires are putting millions of people at risk and adding challenges to the work that states and cities are doing across the nation to clean up air pollution. Here’s a look at the latest rankings for ozone pollution across the region for counties in the non-attainment area included in the American Lung Association’s report:

“It’s encouraging to see that St. Louis has once again escaped the list of the most ozone-polluted cities with more counties in the bi-state area receiving a better grade in this year’s annual “State of the Air” report compared to last year,” said Susannah Fuchs, Director of Clean Air for the American Lung Association in Missouri. “However, there is still much work to be done to protect our local communities and constituents from the growing risks to public health as we prepare to settle into summer when we’re at greater risk for elevated levels of ozone pollution.”

According to the 2023 “State of the Air” report, more than 30% of the nation’s population – including 23.6 million children, 15.4 million people age 65 or older, and millions in other groups at high risk of health harm – are exposed to high levels of ozone on enough days to earn the air they breathe a failing grade.

Albeit an alarming figure, the number of people living in counties with a failing grade for ozone actually declined by more than 19 million this year, with 39 counties in 23 states dropping off the “F”

list entirely. Report data suggests that pandemic-related changes in activity patterns in 2020 and 2021, such as increased telework, made a sizeable difference in ozone levels. With transportation-related emissions having long been reported as one of the biggest contributors to air pollution, this reinforces the importance of people understanding the way they choose to travel significantly impacts air quality in the region.

Fuchs notes that actions like combining errands into a single trip, walking or biking for short trips instead of hopping in your car, not topping off your gas tank, avoiding vehicle idling or opting for electric vehicles can greatly affect the amount of ozone-forming emissions on any given day and help people across the region breathe easier. On the heels of last year’s successful “Don’t Pollute. Switch Up Your Commute.” campaign launched by the Clean Air Partnership and more than half a dozen partners, area residents can still visit www.SwitchUpYourCommute.com to learn more about ways to modify their commuting behaviors and all the transportation options available on both sides

of the Mississippi River – and links to associated schedules, pricing, programs, ride matching services, incentives and more.

Area residents are also encouraged to visit the Clean Air Partnership’s website at www.CleanAir-StLouis.com, where they can view a wealth of information on the health effects of poor air quality, tips for individuals to do their share for cleaner air and contact the Clean Air Partnership with interest in receiving their monthly newsletter. While on the site, individuals can also sign up to receive the daily forecast in their email inboxes via the Environmental Protection Agency’s EnviroFlash air quality alert system, which states if the forecast for the following day is a GREEN (good), YELLOW (moderate), ORANGE (unhealthy for sensitive groups) or RED (unhealthy) air quality day.

Additional air quality information and the daily forecast can be accessed by liking the Clean Air Partnership on Facebook, or by following the organization on Twitter @gatewaycleanair. To access the full American Lung Association 2023 “State of the Air” report, visit www.Lung. org.

Top honor

Creve Coeur finance director receives excellence in government award

Creve Coeur Director of Finance Lori Obermoeller was recently recognized as the recipient of the Missouri Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) 2023 Excellence in Government Award. The award was presented to Obermoeller at the GFOA annual conference on April 13. This award is presented to a government finance professional who displays the high standard of leadership, professionalism, ethics and integrity promoted by the Missouri GFOA.

Since she began working in Creve Coeur in 2017, Obermoeller has implemented several improvements to services within the finance department. Some of her contributions include: leading the implementation of a new enterprise software, which automated processes that were previously done manually; providing analysis of the city’s retirement plans, resulting in the move from a defined contribution plan to LAGERS; moving business license renewals from paper to online applications; and improving the city budget and Popular Annual Financial Report for better presentation and transparency.

“Lori is an asset to the city,” said Mayor Robert Hoffman. “She continuously works to improve city services and communicates financial issues in a clear and professional manner to ensure our city stays financially strong.”

Obermoeller has also assisted other departments during software upgrades, including working with the Recreation Department during the implementation of the new recreation software, as well as assisting the Building Division in evaluating the new permitting software.

Additionally, Obermoeller has earned the Certified Public Finance Officer designation and is extensively involved in the GFOA and the Missouri Municipal League, demonstrating a commitment to her profession.

Director of Finance Lori Obermoeller was recently recognized as the recipient of the Missouri Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) 2023 Excellence in Government Award.

Photo courtesy city of Creve Coeur Creve Coeur

AroundTown

Crowning glory

Florissant’s Performing Arts Center hosted

the 34th Annual 2023

Ms. Missouri Senior America Pageant

On April 30, Christy Wilson-Smith was crowned Ms. Missouri Senior America at the 2023 Ms. Missouri Senior America Pageant at the Florissant’s Performing Arts Center.

Marilyn Callicott was the first runner-up and Peggy Janis was the second runner-up. Sally Faith, a former mayor of St. Charles, was named Ms. Congeniality. She was voted by her peers as Ms. Congeniality.

The pageant, held annually in the St. Louis Area, exemplifies the elegance of senior women over the age of 60. The ladies compete in four categories: Personal interview with judges before the pageant starts; poise in evening gown; recitation of a 35 second philosophy of life; and a two and a one half-minute talent presentation.

Wilson-Smith is a resident of O’Fallon. She graduated from William Woods University with a degree

in vocal music and completing graduate work at Phillips Theological Seminary. She Fulfilled her dream of becoming a music educator. Wilson-Smith received Teacher of the Year Award seven times. She presently is retired after 40 years. For her talent she performed Que Sera, Sera.

Wilson-Smith will represent Missouri in the Ms. Senior America Pageant, held in Atlantic City at the Tropicana Casino & Resort on Oct. 15 through Oct. 19.

For more information on the Ms. Missouri Senior America Pageant visit their website at www.msmissourisenior.org.

Top scholar

Ladue senior named 2023 U.S. Presidential Scholar

Ladue Horton Watkins High School senior Max Yang has been named a 2023 U.S. Presidential Scholar.

The White House Commission on Presidential Scholars selects scholars annually based on their academic success, artistic and technical excellence, essays, school evaluations and transcripts, as well as a demonstrated commitment to community service and leadership; Yang is one of 161 scholars selected this year, and one of only three in Missouri.

Along with his academic achievements, Yang has excelled in several activities during his time as a Ladue Schools student including Scholar Bowl, International Geography Bee, and local art showcases, among others.

Of the 3.7 million students expected to graduate from high school this year, more than 5,000 candidates qualified for the 2023 awards determined by outstanding

performance on the College Board SAT or ACT exams or through nominations made by chief state school officers, other partner recognition organizations and YoungArts, the National Foundation for the Advancement of Artists.

The 2023 U.S. Presidential Scholars are comprised of one young man and one young woman from each state, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, and U.S. families living abroad, as well as 15 chosen at-large, 20 scholars in the arts and 20 scholars in career and technical education.

Created in 1964, the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program has honored more than 8,000 of the nation’s top-performing students. The Presidential Scholars Class of 2023 will be recognized for its outstanding achievement this summer with an online recognition program.

(From left) At the 2023 Ms. Missouri Senior America Pageant, First Runner Up Marilyn Callicott stands next to Ms. Missouri Senior America Christy WilsonSmith and Second Runner Up Peggy Janis.

Horton Watkins High School senior Max Yang has been named a 2023 U.S. Presidential Scholar.

Affordable spring-cleaning projects to save money and energy Energy savers

With Earth Day just recently past, Ameren is sharing some easy ways for its customers to have a positive impact on the environment while reducing monthly energy bills.

To help customers achieve maximum energy cost savings, Ameren suggests tackling these high priority “spring cleaning” projects:

1. Replace your air filters. The best way to improve the performance of your air conditioner is to routinely replace or clean its filters. Clogged or dirty filters obstruct airflow, which can impair the evaporator coil’s heat-absorbing capacity and make the system work harder and run longer. In fact, replacing a dirty, clogged filter with a clean one can lower your air conditioner’s energy consumption by 5% to 15%.

2. Give your refrigerator a deep clean. Refrigerators run constantly and use up to 14% of a home’s electricity. Keep your refrigerator two-thirds full for improved circulation. Next time you clean out the fridge, wipe down the seals around the door to keep them spotless, which will prevent cold air from escaping, and carefully clean the condenser coils. Dirty coils cause a refrigerator to work harder to keep food cool.

3. Check your lighting fixtures. As you clean your lamps, sconces and overhead lights, check for old lightbulbs and replace them with LED ones. They use at least 75% less energy and last 25 times longer than incandescent bulbs. LED bulbs also emit minimal heat, so they can help keep your home cooler.

4. Clean the sliding door track. If your home has an exterior sliding glass door, clean out the track. Dirt and grime can ruin the door’s seal and allow cool air to escape.

5. Put ceiling fans in reverse. As you are dusting off those fan blades, flip the switch on your ceiling fan to rotate them counterclockwise. It will push the cool air down so your air conditioning system does not have to work as hard.

6. Let the cool air in. Take advantage of those cool spring nights by opening the windows to let the cool air in. Don’t forget to close them during the day to keep the warm air out.

7. Plant trees for shade. Planting deciduous trees on the southfacing side of your home can provide shade in the spring and summer. When the trees eventually lose their leaves, the sun will shine through and warm your home in the fall and winter.

“Spring is a great time to give the often-neglected areas of our homes, like cooling systems and sections heavily impacting air flow, some attention to keep them running efficiently,” said Tony Lozano, director of energy solutions at Ameren Missouri. “Dust and grime can easily build up and cause your home to work

harder, which you ultimately see on your energy bill.”

Providing customers with energy savings tips is part of Ameren’s ongoing commitment to help them minimize their energy expenses without sacrificing comfort. Ameren believes that the first step to take toward energy savings starts with a home energy assessment. You can learn where your home uses energy and discover ways to save on your monthly energy statement. You may even qualify for a free, no-obligation assessment in Missouri or Illinois with installation of products like LED lightbulbs, smart thermostats and advanced power strips.

Big savings with smart thermostats

Warmer weather is around the corner, and Ameren is offering a special promotion on smart thermostats in each state. For a limited time, customers in Missouri and Illinois can purchase a Google Nest or Sensi Smart Thermostat for $0 (plus shipping and sales tax).

“Smart thermostats can help customers save between 10% to 20% on their heating and cooling costs,” said Kristol Simms, vice president of clean energy transition, economic, community and business development at Ameren Illinois. “With the increase in energy supply costs, this is a gift every Ameren Illinois customer can benefit from for years to come.”

The thermostats featured in the spring promotion make a home eligible for Ameren Missouri’s Peak Time Savings program. On the occasional peak hot days that create a heavier demand for energy, the program precools your home, which helps you stay comfortable during Peak Time Savings events. Those who enroll in the program earn a $50 sign-up bonus and will receive a yearly $25 credit on their energy statements.

To find even more ways to save, visit AmerenMissouriSavings. com or AmerenIllinoisSavings.com.

A JUNETEENTH Celebration

BY WENDY TODD

One of the biggest celebrations in June is Juneteenth, which marks the date of June 19, 1865 when Union Major General Gordon Granger delivered the news in Texas that President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation which freed enslaved people.

Also known as Emancipation Day, Juneteenth, a combination of the words June and nineteenth, became a federal holiday in 2021 when President Joe Biden signed it into law, and is typically celebrated with events in areas across the country, including St. Louis.

The holiday is an occasion for cultural celebration, education and reflection. Red (a color that signifies strength and courage), is often worn and red delights, such as red velvet cake and hibiscus tea, are enjoyed.

This year the third Juneteenth Celebration in the Delmar Loop will be held

on Saturday, June 10 from noon to 6 p.m. on Delmar and Hamilton to commemorate the holiday. The event is sponsored by the East Loop Community Improvement District.

The East Loop Community Improvement District was established in 2016 to assist the neighborhood in the areas of economic development, safety and security. It also works to build a welcoming community that features enhanced services, amenities and physical improvements, while promoting and preserving the area’s character and cultural vitality.

The free event will open with a drum call by Baba Kunma and feature art, music and food. Performances include African dance by Spirit Angel of African Dance and the Red Black and Brass Band. There will also be live art including a community mural painting and activities at the nonprofit art organization, St. Louis Artworks.

“It is important for the Juneteenth celebration to be held and recognized in all areas of the St. Louis area,” said event manager, Celeste Grayer. “The Delmar Loop is such a special and rich area of the city. The street is acknowledged as one of the most known streets in the country for its rich culture, art, community, music, food and joy. We want to keep this tradition relevant by incorporating all holidays, especially Juneteenth. Juneteenth represents more than the freedom of the slaves in 1865 but the richness of education, culture, love, education, peace and love. We want to continue to represent this in all aspects of life.”

At least 500 people are expected to attend the celebration featuring over 30 vendors and taking place at the 5800 block of the Delmar Loop, extending to Kingshighway.

The federal holiday, Juneteenth, is observed on Monday, June 19. For more information on the Juneteenth celebration and to register, go to www.thedelmarloop. com.

The third Juneteenth Celebration in the Delmar Loop will take place on June 10 to commemorate the holiday

MOORE ON LIFE BY CINDY MOORE

CHICKEN OUT

Someone’s in the doghouse – my husband! I gave him one job…one teensy, little basic job – change the bathroom hand towels.

I ran into the house the other day and needed to step into the bathroom to do what people do when they need to go into the bathroom only what I needed to do was of an urgent nature. Okay, TMI, but it has to do with the story so get that visual out of your mind and let’s move on.

So instead of using the bathroom in our bedroom, I made a rush to the nearest one which happened to be the guest bathroom. That’s when the horror hit me.

I had just finished washing my hands and reached up to grab the towel when the shocking sight smacked me square in the eyeballs. What could cause such a reaction you ask? Well, I’m not going to ask for moral support from you men out there because I suspect you’re all in cahoots over this and will fall in lockstep with my husband who is a dedicated member of your Man Club. But the ladies will understand the jolt I felt.

Now, as I reached for the towel, I discovered that it was red checkered and covered with chickens…CHICKENS I say! Do you know what that means people? It was a kitchen towel…not a bathroom towel! A dingy, frayed kitchen towel used to dry pots and pans and mop up spilled gravy!

And this first world problem could only be made worse by the realization that the night before we had company over and of course, one half of that company was none other than my neighbor, the annoying Mrs. Pilkinson.

And yes, she did excuse herself in the middle of playing dominoes to use my guest bathroom and no doubt she was confronted by that very same checkered chicken towel to wipe her paws. And further, you can bet your sweet dose of judgmental criticism that she took a catty little picture of it and sent it to everyone in the neighborhood announcing that I stocked my bathrooms with nasty gravy mop up towels like some uncouth baboon. Arrgh!

My husband just came in the door. Boy, is he going to get it!

“Hey, who’s been using my best screwdriver to dig up weeds?!” he yelled. Oopsie. I guess we’re even.

COUNTRY ROADS

My friends Rod and Jo live up on a mountain, off a four-wheeldrive road about one mile past the end of winter maintenance. For decades, people have parked at the bottom of the hill, unloaded their ATV’s in the summer, or snowmobiles in the winter, and made the 15 mile loop around some spectacular mountain terrain. Over the years, more and more people have come to the area, and it can get quite busy along the narrow, rocky road, which in some spots is little wider than a jeep. Lots of advertising and social media posts have encouraged people to come and enjoy the yearround outdoor adventures that the area has to offer.

For nearly 20 years, Rod and Jo have commuted to their mountain home up and down this rough, steep, and sometimes treacherous road, mostly via ATV, side-by-side or snowmobile, or some combination thereof, depending on road conditions and where the snow-line was located. Over the last few years, their ATV with tracks instead of wheels was the winter transport of choice. (Their daughters were quite happy to make the switch from the snowmobile, as they no longer smelled like two-stroke exhaust when they went to school.) Getting stuck, or having to deal with breakdowns was a part of living there. Driving a full-sized SUV or pickup along here was done infrequently, and only when necessary, as the rough conditions would reduce it to junkyard scrap in short order. In fact, the road is so rough, runners who train here can easily make it around the 15-mile loop faster than a vehicle can be driven over it. I have personally done this - which is why my knees now resemble my friends’ old Suburban, ready for the scrap heap.

With the increasing crowds came the inevitable traffic and parking issues. In response, the local government agencies have decided to “do something.” That “something,” was to dig through some old legal documents from the 1980’s, which clarified that the road in question was owned by the county up to Rod and Jo’s place, where it became a Forest Service road. An “exception” was granted in the 1980’s that allowed non-street legal vehicles (ATV’s, snowmobiles, etc.) to access the Forest Service road via the county road, from a local state-owned park about two miles away. The county decided to revoke the “exception,” thus prohibiting a very popular decades-old tradition of accessing the backcountry via offroad vehicle. Also, parking at the bottom of the hill is now prohibited. Traffic problem solved.

No accommodation – or even acknowledgement – was given to the small group of hardy folks who live and/or own properties along the road. Nor was any consideration given to the ATV rental company in town that has been in business for several years, or the thousands of off-road enthusiasts who, for decades, have come from across the country to make this off-road journey.

This month’s photo shows the condition of this county road at the end of this winter. My friend Rod and his wife had just spent a

ALWAYS AN ADVENTURE BY AVALANCHE

couple hours digging out a path for their track-equipped ATV to get across the creek that blew out the culvert there. This is what they’re supposed to drive a street-legal vehicle across - all year round.

Then there is the not-so-small issue of enforcement. I know some experienced, level-headed cops who don’t like going to calls in this area due to the “strong anti-government sentiment up there.” It’s not likely that a code enforcement officer standing at the bottom of the hill with a ticket book in hand will get very good results.

The edict revoking the decades-old “exception” was just recently issued with no fanfare via social media and e-mail; public awareness and involvement are just beginning. I suspect that like the road itself, the way forward is going to be very bumpy.

THE 2023 JEEP WAGONEER

BY DAVID FINKELSTEIN

brings upscale luxury to the suV market

If you are focused towards an everyday drive vehicle or one suited for the weekend, the “go anywhere” 2023 Wagoneer is available in three build combinations. This includes the standard Wagoneer, Series II and the Series III.

Wagoneer tends to reflect a prosperous legacy of upscale American craftsmanship, refinement and years of notable heritage. All of this is further wrapped up with a comfortable ride, outstanding safety enhancements and their famous all-wheel-drive capabilities for traversing on almost any type of terrain.

The badging “Wagoneer” has been linked with sport utilities as far back as the 60’s. Today, of course, it is associated with Daimler/Chrysler Automotive. However, marketing has elected to isolate its connection with the Jeep nameplate, offering Wagoneer as their “premium extension” of the Jeep brand.

The Quadra-Lift air suspension system delivers a smooth ride and up to 10 inches of ground clearance. This of course translates to driving dynamics that’s been mimicked by other car companies across the globe as being top rated. These attributes with Wagoneer further include best-in-class 10,000 lbs. towing capabilities, overall passenger volume and dominant second and third-row legroom, plus impressive cargo volume behind the third row.

This SUV’s sophisticated interior treatments hinge on being quite luxurious, re-

fined and elegant at all seating positions. The spacious third row is standard, with seating for up to eight. Some of the factory’s cutting-edge technologies include the latest and most advanced Uconnect 5 system. Its unmatched and engineered to help integrate your smart phone’s intelligent qualities, infotainment and navigation, in one complete arrangement.

Their available 10.25-inch passenger screen has additional functions, including co-pilot navigation with its user-friendly touchscreen interface, wireless phone charging, high caliber entertainment via HDMI or rear seat entertainment control and the ability to view the exterior vehicle cameras.

Developed with an exceptional highstrength steel underside frame assembly, it uses advanced materials and engineering to be lightweight, yet stiff and durable. This characteristic further leads to enhanced body torsional stiffness. For 2023, it’s now brimming with more than 120 standard and available safety and security features. In part, you will find adaptive cruise control, drowsy driver detection, traffic sign recognition, intersection collision assist and electronically controlled suspension for greater on-road handling and comfort. Additionally, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian/cyclist detection, blind-spot monitor, rear crosstraffic alert, and front and rear parking sensors come under the heading of confidence.

It’s also sold with an advanced powertrain lineup for the ‘23 model year. The all-new Hurricane Twin Turbo I-6 engine, standard on Wagoneer Series II and Wagoneer Series III, sets the benchmark for power and efficiency in the large SUV segment with its 420 horsepower and 468 lb.-ft. of torque. The 5.7-liter V-8 engine is rated at 392 horsepower and 404 lb.-ft. of torque, fitted with the next generation of eTorque 48-volt hybrid system with fuel-saving technologies. This includes cylinder deactivation and variable cam timing.

Pricing starts out at $58,995, excluding shipping charges. The base warranty is for 36-months/36,000 miles. Powertrain coverage shows 60-months/60,000 miles. Depending on the build series and engine, city/highway MPG range from around 16/22 miles per gallon, as it comes with a 26.5-gallon fuel tank. This full-size SUV is on the class of the Chevrolet Suburban, Ford Expedition and the Toyota Sequoia. Built not far from Detroit, the 2023 Wagoneer is manufactured in Warren, Michigan.

BY STEVE BRYAN

HENRY WINKLER:

From ‘The Lords of Flatbush’ to ‘Barry’

In 1974, Martin Davidson and Stephen F. Verona directed “The Lords of Flatbush,” a coming-of-age drama set in the 1950’s. Sylvester Stallone played Stanley Rosiello, a teenager from Brooklyn’s Flatbush neighborhood who, along with Wimpy Murgalo (Paul Mace), Butchey Weinstein (Henry Winkler) and Chico Tyrell (Perry King), were part of a gang that wore leather jackets, chased girls, got into fights and hung out at the malt shop.

Believing he had impregnated his girlfriend Frannie (Maria Smith), Stanley agreed to marry her even after he learned she wasn’t pregnant. By the end of the film, the boys from Flatbush left their leather jackets at home and wore dress suits to Frannie and Stanley’s wedding.

“The Lords of Flatbush” became part of a nostalgia wave that included the Broadway and movie versions of “Grease,” George Lucas’ “American Graffiti” and, of course, television’s “Happy Days.” On that iconic series, Henry Winkler played Arthur “Fonzie” Fonzarelli, a motorcycle rider who became a great friend to Richie Cunningham (Ron Howard). The series ran 11 seasons before ending in 1984 and created such spinoffs as “Laverne & Shirley” and “Mork & Mindy.”

During his years on “Happy Days,” Henry Winkler also took movie roles that were intriguing and different. Directed by Jeremy Paul Kagan, 1977’s “Heroes” had Winkler playing Jack Dunne, a Vietnam veteran suffering from PTSD (posttraumatic stress disorder). After escaping from a VA hospital, he planned to become a worm farmer in California. Along the way, he met Carol Bell (Sally Field), a woman who joined him on his trek to California. Henry Winkler’s performance

in “Heroes” earned him a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor in a Drama film.

Winkler brought a lot to the table in 1982’s “Night Shift.” He played Charles “Chuck” Lumley, a former stockbroker who quit his Wall Street job to work at a New York City morgue. Bill “Blaze” Blazejowski (Michael Keaton), Chuck’s new coworker, was a fast-talking guy with such great “ideas” as edible paper to eliminate garbage. For his work in “Night Shift,” Henry Winkler was nominated for the Golden Globe Award for Best Actor (Motion Picture Musical or Comedy) while Keaton won the Kansas City Film Critics Circle Award for Best Supporting Actor.

1998’s “The Waterboy” focused on Bobby Boucher (Adam Sandler), a 31-year-old man who became the water boy for the South-Central Louisiana University Mud Dogs. After being taunted by the team for being a water boy, Coach Klein (Winkler) encouraged Booby to fight back, which helped him become a force to be reckoned with on the football field. Unfortunately, Bobby’s mother Helen (Kathy Bates) didn’t want her son playing that “foosball.” Henry Winkler’s Coach Klein had some great moments trying to convince Helen to let Bobby join his team.

Currently Henry Winkler is part of the cast of HBO’s “Barry,” a series where Bill Hader plays the title role of Barry Berkman, a former U.S. Marine turned hitman. Winkler plays Gene Cousineau, an acting teacher who becomes a mentor to Barry. This popular HBO show is in its final season, so it will be interesting to see what Henry Winkler does next.

FreshSUMMER FLAVORS fit for the patio

Gatherings in the summer sun are all about easy, convenient recipes combined with the joy warm weather brings. Spend those special occasions with those you love most and make this summer one to remember with flatbreads, sliders and

sweet treats for all to share. Keeping cooking simple means more time on the patio or in the backyard engaging with guests, and these Chipotle Chicken Flatbreads, Chicken Shawarma Sliders and Lemon Cheesecake with Fruit let home

Lemon Cheesecake with Fruit

Servings: 6-8

chefs skip complicated kitchen duties without skimping on flavor.

Visit Culinary.net to find more simple summer recipes to share with loved ones.

Inredients:

11/4 cups graham cracker crumbs

1/4 cup sugar

1/4 cup butter, melted

2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened

1 can (14 ounces)

sweetened

condensed milk

3 eggs

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 orange, peeled and separated

8 raspberries

3 mint leaves, for garnish

Directions: Preheat oven to 350 F.

In medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar and melted butter. Press firmly into 9-inch springform pan.

In large bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy. Gradually beat in sweetened condensed milk until smooth. Add eggs, fresh lemon juice and vanilla extract; mix until combined.

Pour into pan. Bake 50-55 minutes, or until center springs back when lightly pressed. Chill in refrigerator until completely cooled. Arrange orange slices around border of cake and place raspberries in middle. Top with mint leaves.

Chicken Shawarma Sliders

Recipe courtesy of eMeals Registered Dietitian Rachel West Prep time: 25 minutes | Cook time: 10 minutes

Inredients:

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts

3 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 tablespoon smoked

paprika

1/2 tablespoon ground cumin

1/2 tablespoon ground coriander

Chipotle Chicken Flatbreads

Recipe adapted from butteryourbiscuit.com

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon cayenne

pepper

1 package (12) slider

buns

1 container (17 ounces)

Fresh Cravings Honey

Jalapeno Hummus

1 package (8 ounces)

shredded lettuce

1/2 small red onion, sliced

Inredients:

2 flatbreads

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 clove garlic, diced

4 chicken tenders, cooked and cubed

1 pint cherry tomatoes, cut

salt, to taste pepper, to taste

1/2 cup ranch dressing

1 1/2 teaspoons chipotle seasoning

2 tablespoons cilantro leaves, chopped

Directions: Preheat oven to 375 F.

Place parchment paper on baking sheet and add flatbreads. Sprinkle cheese on flatbreads. Top with garlic, chicken and tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Bake 16 minutes until cheese is melted. In small bowl, mix ranch and chipotle seasoning. Drizzle ranch dressing on flatbreads and sprinkle with cilantro leaves.

Directions:

In zip-top plastic bag, use meat mallet or heel of hand to pound chicken to even thickness. Cut into 2-inch pieces and place in large bowl. Add oil, garlic, paprika, cumin, coriander, salt and cayenne; toss.

Cover chicken and chill 8 hours, or up to 2 days.

Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill chicken 4-5 minutes per side, or until done.

Serve chicken on buns with hummus, lettuce and onion.

MENTAL HEALTH HEROES

St. Louis County Children’s Service Fund brings attention and services to the mental health needs of children across St. Louis County

BY WENDY TODD

Since 1949, May has been observed in the United States as Mental Health Awareness Month to raise awareness about mental and behavioral health issues and decrease the surrounding stigma. In observance, the nonprofit, St. Louis County Children’s Service Fund (CSF), the largest service provider of its kind in Missouri, has been hosting a series of lunch and learns regarding well-being for youth this month.

“We hope these events will provide an

excellent platform for parents, educators and community members to learn from one another. Mental Health Awareness Month presents us with a great opportunity to better highlight and address our community’s mental health needs,” said Emily Koenig, executive director of CSF.

Attendance has been good and has allowed participants to not only gain information about youth and mental health, but also what CSF offers communities.

“We have been thrilled to see many of our local educators and school-based mental and behavioral health providers attend these lunch and learns,” Koenig said. “With the series continuing throughout the month, we’re excited to be able to offer local educators, providers, parents and interested parties several opportunities to join us for one or more of the webinars.

The nonprofit began in 2008 when a group of St. Louis County voters created the nonprofit and governmental entities to provide mental and behavioral health services to children and families. CSF has invested more than $450 million in organizations throughout the community using the “Putting Kids First” sales tax, which allocates a quarter-cent of every dollar spent in St. Louis County to its funding for services that include crisis intervention, counseling, child advocacy, education, prevention.

Starting in 2005 funding for behavioral health and substance abuse services were reduced due to budget cuts at the state and federal levels. A coalition of over 50 nonprofits paired with community members, recognized the need for more mental health resources for youth. After an independent assessment provided data to support

an initiative, the St. Louis County Putting Kids First Campaign, also known as Proposition 1, was launched and passed on Nov. 4, 2008.

Since its inception, CSF has experienced significant growth, nearly doubling the number of organizations it funds. This year, the organization made its largest allocation ever, providing $150 million to 70 local organizations over a three-year period. In another example of growth, the organization has partnered with the St. Louis County Library system and will provide social workers in five branches.

Children’s Service Fund not only funds organization that provide mental health and behavioral services but also works to inform St. Louis County about low-cost services.

“We want St. Louis County residents to know that mental and behavioral health services are available at low or no cost,” said Koenig. “Our Find A Service tool, an interactive map of local providers, is a great resource for those looking for community or school-based services.”

The link to the service finder is on their website. The organization also wants people to know about 988, a national mental health hotline.

The final two virtual lunch and learn events are on May 24, which centers on Strategies to Cope with Emotional Hardship, and May 31 which focuses on A Supportive Home Environment. Both Zoom events take place from 12 - 12:30 p.m.

For more information on Children’s Service Fund and how to register for the events, go to www.stlcsf.org.

St. Louis County Children’s Service Fund staff and board members following the Core Funding decision in March.