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Our Town Volume 13 | Number 1 JANUARY 2022 Published by the Community News, Our Town is a monthly news magazine covering the cities of Creve Coeur, Maryland Heights, and Olivette. Circulation is 7,000 monthly through over 105 monitored newsstands guaranteeing 100% pickup. Additional issues are distributed online, and a free online subscription is available at www.mycnews. com
N THIS SSUE
Around Town Maryland Heights Police Department helps prevent child abuse with facial hair and more.
Feature PUBLISHER/EDITOR IN CHIEF Mathew DeKinder PUBLISHER EMERITUS/ GENERAL MANAGER Bob Huneke PRODUCTION Becky Brockmann Melissa Nordmann CONTRIBUTORS Avalanche, David Finkelstein, Cindy Moore STAFF WRITERS Brett Auten Wendy Todd
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Making the grade
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Second grade at Conway Elementary has been named Emerson Teacher of the Year and takes a look back at her career By Wendy Todd
Our Thoughts Moore on Life author Cindy Moore does battle for a parking spot while Avalanche picks through odds and ends at the end of the year.
Lifestyle 2022 Toyota Corolla Nightshade Edition brings a sleek style to this sturdy sedan in Automobile Alley. Will ‘Daredevil’ finally make his way to the Marvel Cinematic Universe in Entertainment. Pop up some winter fun in For the Love of Food.
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In Depth Many of those buried at the 200-year-old Fee Fee Cemetery in Bridgeton left an impact on the St. Louis region that can still be felt today.
Events Calendar
Staff Writer –Wendy Todd Cover Photo – Submitted
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AroundTown
Trees for vets The Kaufman Fund ‘Trees for Vets’ program has donated over 2,000 Christmas trees to veterans and their families since 2014
The Kaufman Fund “Trees for Vets” program has donated over 2,000 Christmas trees to veterans and their families since 2014. Each year in the first two weeks in December ,300 veterans receive a free tree and stand. Participating veterans sign up to receive a tree and are assigned a time to pick it up. One could say this act isn’t an essential service; however, it offers a significant feeling of community and upliftment many veterans need. “It provides the veterans a symbol of the joy of the holiday season,” says Irwin Loiterstein who is chairman of the program. The practice of giving veterans trees came about naturally. “I have been in the tree business for over 50 years and served on the National Christmas Tree Association board for eight of those years,” says Loiterstein, who procures the trees for the vets. “When I was chairman of the promotions committee, we were told about a group of growers in Texas that gave Christmas trees to a military base there. And the NCTA started giving trees to active military on bases around the world. When I retired from the retail tree business, I was on the board of The Kaufman Fund and thought it would be a good project for us to give trees to local veterans.” With the assistance of 50 volunteers, a group of veterans, along with the yearlong services, receive a free donated tree
SUBMITTTED PHOTO
BY WENDY TODD
Each year in the first two weeks in December ,300 veterans receive a free tree and stand as a park of the Kaufman Fund “Trees for Vets” program.
and stand that acts as a symbol of appreciation for their service. “It’s a great thing you’re doing for the vets. It means a great deal, what they’re doing for the vets. I appreciate the tree. I appreciate everything they do,” says Joe Hanslick, an Army veteran. According to the Pew Research Center there are roughly 19 million veterans in the United States. And there are over 400,000 in Missouri, many of whom are in need of resources. The Kaufman Fund works to amend that by offering referrals to services and support.
The organization was founded in 1990 by Vietnam veteran Wayne Kaufman. It provides services from legal referrals, free dental care and mental health resources, to brand new winter coats. Another winter gift from the nonprofit is the free Christmas trees. With many veterans facing severe challenges like homelessness, mental illness, job insecurity and other health issues, the Kaufman Fund is a bright light in what can be a dark existence. The free Christmas trees are just an additional sparkle to let veterans know they are not forgotten.
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4 | OUR TOWN | JANUARY 2022
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AroundTown
Bikes for kids Collaborative bike drive sees 350 bikes collected for local children The Mechanical Contractors Association of Eastern Missouri (MCA), Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 562 and the Plumbing Industry Council joined forces this year for their first collaborative charitable giving initiative, a bike drive through which they secured 350 bikes to be donated to underserved area children. From Nov. 8 to Dec. 2, members of the three groups donated fully assembled bicycles and scores of helmets for children ages two to seven, with the host organizations securing the additional helmets needed to ensure one was available to donate with each bike. In the coming weeks, the bikes and helmets will be delivered to several local organizations that will be distributing them to the children they serve to help provide a little holiday cheer. The recipient organizations include Bible Way Fellowship Church of the Living God, St. Louis Bicycle Works, Our Little Haven, Toys for Tots, Feed My People, Saints Joachim and Ann Care Service, Saint Norbert – Knights of Columbus, Jennings Do-Dads, Orchard Farm School District, city of Ferguson, Florissant Police Department, and Gene Slay’s Girls and Boys Club of St. Louis. “The joy on the face of a young child on Christmas morning is undeniable. For many years now, Mechanical Contractors Association and its members have been fulfilling holiday wishes for children and families helped by Our Little Haven,” said Chris Muñoz, Associate Director of Our Little Haven, a St. Louis organization focused around supporting underserved area youth.
Pictured (from left) are Tim Decker, C&R Mechanical Company; Brian Nichols, Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 562; Xavier Gassier, Plumbing Industry Council; Kristy Stephens, MCA; Chris Munoz, Our Little Haven; John O’Mara, Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 562; Kim Slovacek, MCA; George Corey, Pipe and Duct Systems LLC and Kurt Voss, Integrated Facility Services.
In addition to co-hosting this year’s bike drive, the MCA and Local 562 also made a separate $7,500 donation to Our Little Haven. This donation will be used to replace a leaky roof located at 4435 West Pine Blvd. in the Taylor Family Care Center, which serves as the offices of Our Little Haven’s foster care case managers, who help more than 90 area children currently in the foster care system find a permanent loving and nurturing family home. “We are thrilled to continue our longstanding support of Our Little Haven and to extend our holiday giving to several other charitable organizations through this new collaboration with our industry partners,” said Kristy Stephens, Executive Director of the MCA. “It’s truly heartwarming to be
able to positively impact the lives of so many children this holiday season, and we look forward to collaborating on similar initiatives for years to come.” John Boyd, a pipefitter and the pastor at Bible Way Fellowship Church of the Living God, also shared his appreciation for the sponsoring organizations and their members, noting how they not only provide a service for the industrial community, but also take time to think of the little ones in the season of giving. With each bike and helmet combo averaging a $130 value, it is estimated that the inaugural Bike Drive raised the equivalent of $45,000 in bikes and helmets for local children.
JANUARY 2022 | OUR TOWN | 5
AroundTown
Beards for Babies Maryland Heights Police Department helps prevent child abuse with facial hair As an offshoot of “No Shave November,” the Maryland Heights Police Department held its first annual “Beards for Babies” to benefit the Saint Louis Crisis Nursery and raised $4,000 to help prevent child abuse and neglect. Chief Bill Carson has temporarily suspended the department policy that restricts the wearing of beards; any officer, friend, or family member could voluntarily make a minimum donation of $50 to the Crisis Nursery and spend November growing their Beards for Babies. Carson said, “We wanted to do something charitable, preferably for children and families, and at the same time support organizations that are in our community.” The MHPD challenged other area police and fire departments to see who would raise the most money for the Saint Louis Crisis Nursery: the Hazelwood Police Department, North County Police Cooperative and Overland Police Department all accepted the challenge. A total of $4,000 was raised to help the Crisis Nursery; the Maryland Heights Police Department led over $2,800 in donations. Detective Shane Monnig is the winner of the “best beard” and will be allowed to wear his beard until the end of the year. “Chief Carson, the Maryland Heights Police Department, and
As an offshoot of “No Shave November,” the Maryland Heights Police Department held its first annual “Beards for Babies” to benefit the Saint Louis Crisis Nursery and raised $4,000 to help prevent child abuse and neglect.
other departments across our region know about the important work of the Crisis Nursery. We are excited about this new and fun way for them to help us keep kids safe,” said DiAnne Mueller, CEO of the Crisis Nursery.
Protecting pipes Missouri American Water encourages customers to winterize water pipes In advance of freezing temperatures, Missouri American Water is advising homeowners and business owners of ways to avoid frozen water pipes. Property owners are responsible for maintenance of indoor pipes within their residence or business, as well as the water service line running from the outdoor water meter or property line to the house/business. Missouri American Water encourages customers to take the following precautions to reduce the risk of freezing and bursting pipes. Before frigid weather sets in: • Know the location of your main water shut-off valve. If a pipe freezes or bursts, you’ll want to shut the water off immediately. • Protect your pipes by wrapping them with insulation. • Know which areas in your home are most vulnerable to freezing, such as basements, crawl spaces, unheated rooms, and outside walls. • Eliminate cold air sources near water lines by repairing broken windows, insulating walls, closing off crawl spaces, and eliminating drafts near doors.
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When temperatures are consistently at or below freezing: • Allow a small trickle of water from both your cold and hot water faucets to run overnight to keep pipes and meters from freezing. The cost of the extra water is low compared to the cost to repair a broken pipe. Customers should implement wise water use practices and collect the running water for later use, like watering indoor plants or cooking. • Open cabinet doors to expose pipes to warmer room temperatures to help keep them from freezing, although be careful not to create a tripping hazard. If your pipes do freeze: • Shut off the water immediately. Don’t attempt to thaw pipes without turning off the main shut-off valve. • Thaw pipes with warm air. Melt the frozen water in the pipe by warming the air around it. Be sure not to leave space heaters unattended and avoid the use of kerosene heaters or open flames. • Be careful turning the water back on. Once pipes are thawed, slowly turn the water back on and check pipes and joints for any cracks or leaks that might have been caused by freezing.
AroundTown
Membership milestone On Dec. 19, the St. Louis Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. celebrated 95 years of service to the St. Louis community. For 95 years, the St. Louis Alumnae (SLA) used their voices, resources, and collective strength to advocate for the African-American community, especially those who are underserved or have been marginalized by society or systemic injustices. They serve under the banner of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated’s Five-Point Programmatic Thrust, which are: Economic Development, Educational Development, International Awareness & Involvement, Physical & Mental Health and Political Awareness & Involvement. “I am extremely humbled and proud when I reflect on the impact that the women of the St. Louis Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., has made on the St. Louis Region for nearly a century,” said SLA President DeJeanette Williams. “It is my desire that we continue to use our sisterhood, scholarship and service to push forward while making a difference in our community.” Key community service projects include Financial Fortitude workshops, Breakfast with Santa, World AIDs Day recognition, as
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SLA Deltas celebrate 95th chapter anniversary and initiate 95 new members
In the fall of 2021, the St. Louis Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. initiated 95 new members.
well as their youth programs, which include the Ariya, Delta GEMS, Delta Academy and Delta Twinkles. As a result of the notable programs, they were honored by their regional leadership for exemplary programming and most recently honored at the national level for their video on SLA’s heritage. In addition, the SLA Chapter has paved the way in a wide array of fields from education at all levels, to social justice, the medical profession, lawyers, elected officials, entrepreneurs, judges, community activists and the performing arts, just to name a few. In the fall of 2021, the chapter initiated
95 new members. Ironically, the number of new members coincided with their 95th year anniversary celebration. The chapter now has more than 500 members. Lambda Sigma, the original name of the chapter, was chartered on Dec. 19, 1926, under the leadership of one of the Sorority’s Founders, Madree Penn White, along with Golda Crutcher, Elizabeth Gross Green, Helen Lucas and Imogene Wilson. To learn more about the St. Louis Alumnae Chapter and their 95th Year Anniversary Celebration, please visit their website, at sla-dst.org.
Protect your information Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services warns citizens of text message scam The Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services (DHSS) is warning citizens of a new text message scam targeting citizens and their personal information. According to website registration information, it was established on Dec. 2, and was registered using a provider from the European Union. The text message requests that citizens visit a website to enter their social security number, name and date of birth, and upload photos of their Driver License to “validate” their “one-time Covid-19 Vaccine verification.” In an attempt to legitimize the site, logos of DHSS and the Missouri Department of Revenue’s myDMV portal appear along the top. DHSS has worked with the Office of Administration’s Information Technology Services Division (OA-ITSD) to take all actions at the state’s disposal to report the site to the proper authorities, although
the site is hosted and maintained externally. DHSS will never ask for a citizen’s SSN over email or text message and only provides vaccination verification and records upon request. Although citizens have reported text messages originating from 1-704-525-9772, DHSS encourages citizens to protect their personal information online no matter the source. If a citizen submitted their information through this website, DHSS recommends starting with the following steps to protect themselves: • Contact your financial institutions to notify them of the privacy breach. • Contact the Social Security Administration to report an exposed SSN. • Contact credit reporting services to alert them your information was disclosed. JANUARY 2022 | OUR TOWN | 7
AroundTown
Remembering Dr. King STLCC-Florissant Valley and NCCU to host 2022 Dr. MLK Jr. Celebration St. Louis Community College at Florissant Valley and North County Churches Uniting for Racial Harmony and Justice will host their annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Jan. 18. The community event – which is from 6-7:30 p.m. – will include an opportunity to add to the MLK wall, hear inspiring speeches, celebrate excellence in the community with a formal award presentation, and more. The community is invited to attend the celebration in the Terry M. Fischer Theatre at St. Louis Community College at Florissant Valley at 3400 Pershall Road in Ferguson. Seating is limited to 150. Keep in mind: Masks are required indoors. Alternatively, participants can enjoy the event virtually by visiting stlcc.edu/go/fvmlkday or 89.5 KCFVFM “The Wave.” Michael P. McMillan, president and CEO of the Urban League of Metropolitan Saint Louis Inc., a nonprofit organization that provides social services, will speak on the celebration’s theme, “We’re Better Together.” McMillan is a member of the boards of directors of numerous organizations and has received hundreds of awards and commendations from various organizations. Most recently, he was inducted into the International Civil Rights Walk of Fame as its youngest member and named the 2020 Person of the Year by the St. Louis American.
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Keeping with tradition, north St. Louis County students will lead and participate in the celebration. Tyler Hoskins, a freshman, graphic communications student at the college, will serve as emcee. Beyonce’ Hightower and Javon Spearman, freshmen, general transfer students at the College, are the student speakers. Participants will also hear winning speeches from NCCU’s Oratorical Contest and a musical performance of James Weldon Johnson’s “Lift Every Voice and Sing” by Alayna Epps, University of Missouri-St. Louis vocalist, accompanied by Paul Higdon, DMA, professor of music and pianist. In addition to being inspired by rousing speakers and a musical performance, guests will learn more about why Emerson Electric Co. is being honored with the 2022 Dr. Rance Thomas Excellence in Community Partnership Award. “I can’t begin to count all the ways Emerson has shown its support. Most recently, thanks to Emerson, STLCC-Florissant Valley is home of the Emerson STEM Academy, a program that ensures students are ready for STEM careers and majors after graduating from high,” said Elizabeth Gassel Perkins, Ed.D., campus president and chief academic officer at St. Louis Community College at Florissant Valley. “Emerson had a sincere interest in joining us in the work of preparing young minds for careers in science, technology, engineering, and math, and as a result, provided us with a $1 million grant that made creating the dedicated tutoring and learning space, covering the costs of books and materials for students, and making both transportation and enrichment programs possible. We deeply appreciate our partnership with Emerson. This is just one of the many ways Emerson has supported STLCC, the Florissant Valley campus and the community.” Following Dr. King’s commitment to service, guests are asked to make a donation to the Archers’ Market, a campus food pantry for STLCC students to get food and hygiene items free of charge. The Archers’ Market has an abundance of canned vegetables; donations are requested for deodorant (for men and women), drink mixes and single-serve flavor packets for water like hot chocolate and tea, feminine hygiene (tampons, pads and panty liners), hand warmers, lotion, men’s razors, microwavable shelf-stable meals, nuts, protein bars and granola bars, singleserve soups, socks, sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, trail mix, and winter gloves. Leading up to the celebration, STLCC-Florissant Valley students and employees created messages on sticky notes in keeping with the theme that form the letters MLK on a theatre wall. Community members will also have an opportunity to add to the MLK wall during the celebration. The contingency date for the celebration, should the college close due to inclement weather, is Jan. 20 on the same time schedule.
AroundTown
Faithful football Westminster football coach answers to call of the Wildcats The trial-and-error process was put to the test for Westminster Christian Academy High football coach Butler B’ynote’ this past fall, as the Wildcats finished with a 3-7 record, including a 21-14 playoff exit to Sullivan. But the losing mark can’t diminish the joy he derives from coaching at the West St. Louis County faith-based institution. “Coaching at Westminster is a colossal opportunity,” notes B’ynote’, both a coach and an ordained minister in the African Methodist Episcopa (AME) Zion Church denomination. “I have repeatedly said it’s a great opportunity and a blessing as well as a responsibility.” B’ynote’ just completed his first full season as head coach for the Wildcats, after an abbreviated four-game season the fall of 2020 due to pandemic restrictions imposed by the St. Louis County Health Department. It is, however, his first coaching stint at a religious-based school, after several previous coaching positions at secular, public schools, running the gamut from Vashon in the inner-city as a head coach
for a couple of seasons, to Kirkwood as an assistant in South St. Louis County. He believes this may be his best fit, given that he doesn’t have to leave some of his religious views away from his student-athletes. (He also serves as assistant dean of students. “I am living the dream,” he raves. “I get to teach, preach and coach. For me it doesn’t get any better than that. Every day is an opportunity for me to pour into a young man spiritually through the platform of football.” His coaching staff includes Bennie Anderson, a former starting offensive lineman in the NFL, whose son Joshua Anderson, was a starting tight end-linebacker on the team, who has signed with Eastern Michigan University. To say that B’ynote’s football resume was diverse would be an understatement. After starring as a running back at Vashon High in North St. Louis, he matriculated to Ohio State University in 1990, where he clearly had moments of stardom, including a breakout 189 rushing effort against the University of Arizona, which earned
him votes for national college player of the week. But in his latter seasons there, he was relegated to splitting time with future National Football League star Robert Smith. Another future NFL star running back Eddie George also had a couple of overlapping years with B’ynote’. For good measure, he was also a track and field star on Ohio State’s record-setting 4x400-meter relay team at the time. After college, he played professionally in the National Football League, as a defensive back-kick returner with the Carolina Panthers and Denver Broncos, as well as stints in NFL Europe and the XFL. He landed his first coaching job at a public high school in the state of Ohio and has been doing it ever since. Westminster athletic director Cory Snyder said B’ynote’ fit the profile for what the school was looking for in a coach. “We were looking for a couple of things,” Snyder says. “First of course we were looking for a good coach of high moral character and a man of God. We’re excited to have him lead our program.”
Voted North County’s Best Senior Living Community
Mark of a winner Parkway South Middle student wins St. Louis County Library bookmark contest Meghan Hebbar, an eighth-grade student at Parkway South Middle School, recently won the St. Louis County Library bookmark contest in her age category. The bookmarks were professionally printed and distributed at all SLCL branches in October. The bookmark contest was open to students six to 17. Hebbar was one of eight winners of the bookmark contest. SUBMITTED PHOTO
Parkway South Middle student wins St. Louis County Library bookmark contest
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email your information in calendar and article formats to editor@mycnews.com. JANUARY 2022 | OUR TOWN | 9
MAKING the grade Second grade yeacher at Conway Elementary has been named Emerson Teacher of the Year and takes a look back at her career BY WENDY TODD Dr. Audra Smith, who teaches second grade at Conway Elementary has been named Emerson Teacher of the Year. The Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award, which is in its 32nd year, recognizes educators in the St. Louis metropolitan area from kindergarten teachers to college professors who provide exemplary service. Smith, who has over 25 years of experience and has been with the Ladue School district for 10 years, is one of 80 teachers to receive this honor. “To say I was shocked when I won this award is a complete understatement,” says Smith. “I have been working hard over the past 25 years to become the best educator for my students, and winning a recognition award was the last thing on my mind.” The St. Louis native who grew up in Creve Coeur credits her parents for their support in her journey to become an educator. But the journey wasn’t linear. Smith had originally chosen a different path.
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“It is a worthy and noble profession to be a part of. We can’t control what happens when our students leave our doors, but the moments in between are amazing. We definitely can’t go back to the way we operated before, but we still have the capability to change the course of education in the future.” ~DR. AUDRA SMITH, Emerson Teacher of the Year “I actually didn’t choose teaching as my first career. I wanted to go to medical school to become a forensic pathologist, “Smith says. “Somewhere along my junior year I had a deep discussion with my mom, who is also an educator, that changed my perspective.” Giving back to the community has been a long-standing value in Smith’s family. And the practice of giving back has shaped Smith’s approach to teaching. “The why behind everything we do has to be about the students and their wellbeing,” Smith says. “Every single decision that is made has to focus on students’ voice and choice for their learning needs. There have to be plenty of opportunities for equitable learning environments so that every student has access to resources and best practices they need at the right moments in their journeys.” Though Smith is clearly dedicated to her profession and students, it doesn’t mean that commitment comes without difficulties. “The hardest part of being an educator is wearing so many different hats during the day,” Smith says. “It’s challenging when you have to jump through so many hoops to get the very best for all of your students.” The typical challenges a teacher faces have been greatly exacerbated by the pandemic. Many educators have changed professions due to the added pressures of teaching through COVID-19. But Smith adapted and pushed forward in an unprecedented circumstance that tested and upgraded her skills.
“I was chosen to be the virtual teacher for second grade in my school,” Smith says. “I wasn’t expecting that to happen. The challenge was to make sure my students were getting the best instructional and interactive practices as possible. I taught live online the entire time and it created a great opportunity for me to work on my pedagogy. Seeing their faces every day and the bonds we created was so amazing. I learned a great deal about myself in the process and it made me a stronger teacher.” Smith’s students help keep her focused on providing the best learning experience possible. “One thing that keeps me going is the fact I personally have to be there for my kids,” says Smith. “Students don’t necessarily have the same tools in their tool belts as adults to deal with all of the changes and challenges. Knowing they have a constant and safe learning environment is the most important thing we can give our students. Seeing their faces last year when they were finally able to get back into the buildings was so heartwarming.” In addition to her students, Smith has had mentors that have directed her toward her full potential. “My most recent mentor is my former principal Dr. Lane Narvaez,” Smith says. “She was the catalyst to lighting the fire for me to return to school to get my master’s as well as my doctorate. She introduced me to the Differentiated Learning Model and supported my quest to continually work on assessing deeper learning for both myself and my students.” The training, dedication and ability to
Dr. Audra Smith, who teaches second grade at Conway Elementary has been named Emerson Teacher of the Year.
adapt to student needs takes a lot of effort, but Smith obviously believes it’s a worthwhile endeavor. “The best part about being a teacher is the connections I build between the students and our community,” says Smith. “The Ladue Motto is #SeeServeConnect, and it helps to provide a pathway to building bridges between our schools to their homes. I love being with my kids laughing and learning together on a daily basis. Many students know me throughout the school and their waves, hugs, fist bumps and acknowledgements make the days bright.” For those seeking to become a teacher Smith holds the door wide open as teachers are in need right now. She also offers some insights “It is a worthy and noble profession to be a part of,” she says. “We can’t control what happens when our students leave our doors, but the moments in between are amazing. We definitely can’t go back to the way we operated before, but we still have the capability to change the course of education in the future.” Though typical obstacles that exist in the field coupled with the pandemic have been deterrents for others to join or remain in teaching, Smith’s dedication has not waned. “Education fits so many of my interests,” Smith says. “I have loved every minute in my chosen profession. I teach and will continue to because I absolutely love what I do.” JANUARY 2022 | OUR TOWN | 11
OurThoughts
No parking Things are getting pretty weird out there. For instance, I sent my husband off to do a small task for me –grocery shopping. Sounds pretty simple right? Especially since I sent along a detailed list. No sooner had he left than there he was back in the driveway. Much too soon. What could be the reason? I thought I knew. “Did you forget to go to the bathroom before you left?” I giggled. He gave me a snarky look. “Real funny. No. I couldn’t find a place to park.” “Huh? Now you’re being funny.” “Nope. Serious as your mother’s sense of humor. Let me give you a rundown: there were several parking spaces reserved for policemen; one entire row for curbside pick-up; another four slots for pharmacy call-ins and a dozen more reserved for disabilities. Then throw in the others set aside for expectant mothers, senior citizen parking, veterans, mothers with small children and special areas for people riding emotional support pack mules. That left only six spots.” “So…why didn’t you grab one of them?” “Those were for shopping carts. It seems they’d rather use the limited space to cram with empty carts instead of having cash-paying customers fill them.” “Come on,” I said. “I’ve got a plan.” We jumped in the car and drove back to the store. I dropped him off and circled around the block expecting to make at least five revolutions. To my surprise, I spotted him on the curb after the first go-round. He waved me down. “Now what are you doing back so early? And where are the things I sent you to buy?” “Supply chain issues. Nothing on the shelves. But the manager gave me this address. Said there was plenty of merchandise there.” “Seriously? Are you telling me that we’re going to have to drive across town to another store to buy things?” “That would be nice,” he said, “but this address is for a shipping container somewhere off the Pacific coast. He also said we would need a boat, but good luck finding one. They’re on back order.” 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.
12 | OUR TOWN | DECEMBER JANUARY 2022 2021
MOORE ON LIFE BY CINDY MOORE
OurThoughts ALWAYS AN ADVENTURE BY AVALANCHE
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With winter officially here, at least according to the calendar, we’re still dealing with some of the leftovers of summer. Temperatures have been in the 50s and sometimes even 60s, which has pretty well cleared off what little snow that has fallen. Travel via motorcycle is still ongoing, though trips are limited to short commuter jaunts, as icy spots are still present on the highways above treeline. Here in our valley, the highway department is still working on clearing up the mud and rock debris deposited in late summer from the road shoulders. It’s a daunting task, with many pieces of equipment being run for many hours to move the massive debris piles off the wide spots along the road. The operators are grateful for the delayed start to the snow season, as there is nowhere to pile the snow once cleared from the pavement, due to the still-present mounds of mud and debris. I cleared off the last pile of rocks at the end of my driveway only yesterday. Everything is at least out of the way at my house, and I’ll start working on final cleanup and re-landscaping from the past summer storms next spring.
***** Despite the few torrential downpours of late summer, the ongoing drought still has the upper hand with the water situation. The National Weather Service just recently issued their long-term outlook – and it doesn’t look good for us. The forecast is for the Northern Rockies to be wetter and cooler than normal, but the Southwest if facing drier and warmer temperatures than normal. We’re closer to the latter than the former, but we’re not in the worst spot. So far, the river is running around average, which is due to the warm temperatures melting what little snow we have, which keeps the flow artificially high. The local high-country springs are mere trickles, and historically reliable sources of water for hikers and hunters have caused more than one backcountry traveler to abort their backpacking trips – including me. It’s quite a disappointment to hike for several hours in to a location, only to find that your expected drinking water source is a mere muddy puddle. In my own case earlier this fall, I was able to at least melt some crusty snow hidden in the shadows of trees to prevent dehydration. My three- or four-day excursion turned into a single overnight and a prompt hike out. We’re very much hoping that the NWS prediction is wrong, and we get lots of snow this season.
***** Maybe weather related, maybe not, but neither I nor a single one of my friends or acquaintances bagged an elk locally this year. Among the wide range of folks I know that head into the mountains to fill their freezers, only one got his elk, and he had travelled out of the area to do so. This is very unusual, as many of us count on nature’s best meat being in the freezer for the year. Some of the shift is undoubtedly my perception due to demographics; my close friends and I are getting older, and backpack hunting for elk is very strenuous even for the strongest and fittest. But I know of several hard-core sportsmen who are half my age, and can hike twice as far as I can, and they did not score. With the dry conditions, the elk could have been higher in elevation due to lack of snow, and in different areas than normal due to the lack of active springs, and lack of abundant grasses. In any case, it was probably a small bonus for the beef ranchers, who had to cater to an increase in demand. Even now, when the elk and deer have usually moved to lower elevation, we haven’t seen the herds congregating in the open fields. Perhaps the much-hoped for snow will arrive and drive them down. If not, they’ll get to spend their winters up higher in the mountains, with the benefit of fewer disturbances from people, not an entirely bad trade-off, as solitude in the mountains is hard to find these days. 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.
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2022 Toyota Corolla
Nightshade Edition
brings a sleek style to this sturdy sedan With an overall highway driving range in excess of 530 miles, the 2022 Toyota Corolla Nightshade Edition is an interesting vehicle to consider. It has sleek, sharp and aggressive exterior body lines with its overall unique influence that sets the stage for the Nightshade to stand out. Interesting as it is, this model was developed on a wheelbase (basically the distance that’s compiled from the center of the front wheels to the center of the rear wheels) that comes out to be 104-inches. This number translates to a fairly stable and controllable ride under most conditions. That in itself can certainly be added to the “plus column” with this five-passenger automobile. The car’s interior is somewhat open and naturally intuitive. A quick peek at the vehicle’s warranty indicates that the base coverage is for three-years/36,000 miles, while the engine and driveline componentry have factory coverage for five-years/60,000. Also included is regular scheduled maintenance for two-years/25,000. Powering this particular front-wheel automobile is Toyota’s 2.0-liter in-line four-cylinder engine. Toyota also included variable valve timing with this design in order to help achieve a boost in acceleration. It has an output rating of 168-horsepower. That’s certainly well within the performance range of acceleration one would expect for a vehicle of this size. EPA fuel consumption tends to show 32-mpg city/41-mpg highway. The only gearbox available is their continuously variable automatic transmission. The Nightshade Edition is a Corolla solely engineered on the regular SE trim. It has unique accents intended to help set this version aside from the standard version of Corolla. Essentially, the specifications on this model are close to identical to that of the SE. The underlying exception would channel our thoughts in the direction of some subtle styling changes. This accounts for the included assorted gloss black accents, uncommon exclusive black 18-inch alloy wheels mounted with performance P225/40R all-weather tires, front grille surround assembly, contrasting door mirrors, blacked out exterior door handles, offbeat rocker panels, an attractive rear trunk spoiler, and unequaled Nightshade badges on the car. Fundamentally, this model would attract motorists that define
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the word individualism or distinctiveness within their daily activities. Corolla’s rolling technology is more than just convenient to the driver and the passengers. It’s engineered to also help keep you safe with alert notification enhancements. The optional adaptive front-lighting system tends to follow your front wheels when you turn, for enhanced visibility after dark. This feature was adopted from Toyota’s premium line of vehicles. With the Toyota+Alexa app, you can ask to play music, control smart-home devices and find parking. An eight-inch touchscreen with six speaker audio system is standard as is their Star Safety System, which is an advanced integration of safety technologies designed to enhance traction, braking and more. Armed with these safety improvements, it helps you to avoid some accidents. Also standard are ten airbags, including the driver and front passenger advanced airbag system, driver and front passenger seat-mounted side airbags, driver knee airbag, front passenger seat cushion airbag, rear seat-mounted side airbags, and front and rear side curtain airbags. Optional is Toyota’s Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert designed to raise the safety bar by warning you when a vehicle in the next lane enters your blind spot on either side of the vehicle. This Corolla is frequently cross shopped with the Volkswagen Jetta, Nissan Sentra, Kia Forte, Honda Civic and the Hyundai Elantra. The base starting pricing structure reflects $22,465. Delivery charges are not included as they show $1,025.
BY DAVID FINKELSTEIN
David Finkelstein is a Master/Skill Automotive Service Technician and a shop owner. He’s also invented garage service tools for mechanics and has served on both National and local Automotive Trade Industry Boards. He pioneered “Car Talk Radio” starting out with KMOX/CBS Radio and hosted “Auto Talk” on KFTK/FOX News Radio for 15-years. David tests and evaluates new vehicles weekly and does some consulting with various auto manufacturers.
OurLifestyle
Will ‘DAREDEVIL’ finally make his way to the MARVEL Cinematic Universe? While growing up in St. Louis, the public library was an almost daily destination for a bookworm like me. Though I loved young adult books written by the late Beverly Cleary and Carolyn Haywood, comic books have always been my favorite reading material. Because libraries typically didn’t carry them, my friends and I would head to grocery stores and confectionaries to buy Marvel and DC comics. While the cover price back then was 15 cents, today’s superhero adventures will set a reader back at least $3 or $4. Though the “Fantastic Four” was my favorite superhero team, the character I admired most was Daredevil, a blind vigilante. In 1964, the late great Stan Lee and artist Bill Everett introduced readers to Matt Murdock, a brilliant attorney who fought crime in the Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood of New York. As a teenager, Matt saved a man from being hit by a car but, in the process, Matt was exposed to radiation that blinded him. Although sightless, his other senses were enhanced and he developed a form of echolocation similar to what bats use for navigation. Superheroes can fly, smash buildings or turn invisible, but, in my humble opinion, Matt Murdoch has been Marvel’s coolest character ever. Matt trained himself to become physically strong and use his abilities to fight crime on the streets and in the courtroom. In 2003’s “Daredevil” movie, Ben Affleck played both Murdoch and his crimefighting alter ego. An amazing Jennifer Garner was Elektra Natchios, a skilled martial artist and love interest for Matt. The late Michael Clarke Duncan stole the show, however, as Wilson Fisk, the notorious Kingpin of crime. During interviews for the film, Duncan said that Affleck looked like a “pixie” in his red costume. For three years beginning in 2015, Charlie Cox played the sightless superhero on a Marvel Television series for Netflix. Recently, Marvel’s Kevin Feige said Daredevil would appear in future projects and that Cox would reprise his role in those projects. That announcement opened up a world of possibilities, especially when it came to Spider-Man. A team-up with Tom Holland’s Spider-Man would be amazing to watch on screen. Matt could be an incredible mentor for Peter as well. Though Feige may be a bit elusive about his announcements, any news about Daredevil is good news. The Marvel Cinematic Universe is heading into its next phase and Matt Murdoch deserves his place alongside the other heroes. In 2008, Feige and his team started a MCU storyline in the original “Iron Man” movie that wasn’t complete until 11 years later. Matt Murdoch and Daredevil definitely deserve a place in the next phase of superheroes.
Photos courtesy Netflix
BY STEVE BRYAN
Born and raised in South St. Louis, Steve Bryan is now based in Anaheim, California, and has been allowed access to movie and television sets to see actors and directors at work. Though his writing has taken him far from St. Louis, Steve is, at heart, still the same wide-eyed kid who spent countless hours watching classic movies at neighborhood theaters.
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OurLifestyle
Pop up
some winter fun
T
he winter months provide many occasions to celebrate, and no celebration is complete without tasty treats. A perfect partner for a broad variety of flavors, popcorn is a versatile pantry staple that can be served plain or as a better-for-you addition to seasonal snacks. With no artificial additives or preservatives, light and airy popcorn is naturally low in fat and calories, nonGMO and gluten free, making it a sensible option to satisfy cravings for something savory, sweet and just about every flavor in-between. Plus, whole-grain popcorn has energy-producing carbohydrates and fiber, which can help keep you satisfied longer. As a way to honor one of America’s oldest and most beloved snack foods, National Popcorn Day on Jan. 19 is a perfect opportunity to pop up a bowl to
enjoy with loved ones or create whole-grain culinary masterpieces like fragrant and flavorful Jamaican Jerk Popcorn, which features hot pepper, spices and jerk butter to help you warm up from the inside out. Or consider another tasty snack option like Furikake Popcorn, a lighter recipe exploding with the flavors of sesame, nori and a Japanese spice blend. You can combine favorite flavors for movie night with Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Popcorn, which is perfect for settling in on a snowy winter’s eve, and an option like Rocky Road Popcorn Clusters, featuring chocolate, marshmallows and nuts, are perfect for sharing with loved ones after an evening meal. Find more fun, fluffy and flavorful recipes to celebrate everything winter has to offer at Popcorn.org.
Rocky Road Popcorn Clusters Yield: 3 dozen
Ingredients: 1 bag (6 ounces) semi-sweet chocolate chips 1 teaspoon vegetable oil 4 cups popped popcorn
1 1/2 cups miniature marshmallows 3/4 cup chopped walnuts
Directions: In small microwave-safe bowl, heat chocolate chips in microwave on high 1 minute, until melted. Stir in vegetable oil.
In large bowl, add popcorn, marshmallows and walnuts. Pour melted chocolate over mixture, tossing to coat. Drop mixture by tablespoonful onto wax paper-lined jellyroll pan. Refrigerate until firm, about 2 hours, or overnight.
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OurLifestyle Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Popcorn Yield: 6-8 servings (1 cup each)
Ingredients: 1/4 cup nonfat Parmesan cheese 2 teaspoons garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano 1/4 teaspoon dried marjoram leaves 1/4 teaspoon dried basil leaves 1/8 teaspoon dried sage
In small bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, marjoram, basil, sage and pepper; mix well. In large bowl, combine popcorn and
black pepper, to taste 12 cups air-popped popcorn 3/4 cup turkey pepperoni, cut into bite-size bits olive oil cooking spray
turkey pepperoni; spray lightly with olive oil cooking spray. Sprinkle popcorn and pepperoni with cheese mixture; toss to coat evenly.
Jamaican Jerk Popcorn Yield: 4-6 servings
Ingredients: 1/4 cup butter 1 tablespoon minced, seeded scotch bonnet chili pepper 1 teaspoon grated lime zest 1/2 teaspoon chili powder 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice 1/2 teaspoon pepper Directions In small saucepan, combine butter, chili pepper, lime zest, chili powder, thyme, allspice, pepper, ginger, garlic powder, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, onion powder and salt. Cook
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/8 teaspoon onion powder 1/4 teaspoon salt 8 cups popped popcorn
over low heat 3-5 minutes, or until butter melts and mixture is fragrant. In large bowl, toss popcorn with spice mixture until evenly coated.
Tip: Omit scotch bonnet pepper and substitute 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, if preferred.
Furikake Popcorn Yield: 2-3 servings
Furikake Seasoning:
Ingredients: 1 nori sheet, broken into pieces 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds, divided 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar 6 cups popped popcorn 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Directions: To make furikake seasoning: In spice grinder or using mortar and pestle, grind nori with 1/2 tablespoon sesame seeds until finely ground. Transfer to small bowl; stir in remaining sesame seeds, salt and sugar.
In large bowl, toss popcorn with butter and furikake seasoning until evenly coated. To toast sesame seeds: In small dry skillet over medium heat, cook sesame seeds 2-3 minutes, or until lightly golden and fragrant. Let cool completely before using.
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InDepth
A recent grave-marking ceremony for five American Revolution patriots buried at the Fee Fee Cemetery was conducted by the Missouri Society of the Sons of the American Revolution, the Spirit of St. Louis chapter.
Living legacy Many of those buried at the 200-year-old Fee Fee Cemetery in Bridgeton left an impact on the St. Louis region that can still be felt today BY WENDY TODD
St. Louis is rich with history, culture and legacy. Opportunities to discover the area’s past are buried all over the region. One is in Bridgeton at the Fee Fee Cemetery which has interments that have significantly contributed to the development of the St. Louis region. The 12.86 acre site is one of the oldest active cemeteries in the area with its first burial in 1822. It serves as the eternal resting place for notable St. Louisans, including members
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InDepth “The ceremony for these patriots was to recognize that these men had served in the fight for the independence of our nation. It is an honor to recognize each one for the service they rendered to our country,” ~ Bill Miller, trustee of the Fee Fee Cemetery Association
of the Patton family, for which the area of Pattonville is named, and Joseph Shackelford Ritenour the namesake for the Ritenour School District. Other recognizable names can be found at the cemetery as well. Some who are buried at Fee Fee Cemetery were part of families that a number of streets in St. Louis County are named after, like Avery, Breckenridge, Howdershell, Lackland, McKelvey and Walton. The cemetery also serves as a memorial park for many veterans, some of whom were recognized recently with a grave-marking ceremony. The ceremony, attended by Terry Briggs, the mayor of Bridgerton, was for five American Revolution patriots buried at the cemetery. It was conducted by the Missouri Society of the Sons of the American Revolution, the Spirit of St. Louis chapter. “The ceremony for these patriots was to recognize that these men had served in the fight for the independence of our nation. It is an honor to recognize each one for the service they rendered to our country,” says Bill Miller, a trustee of the Fee Fee Cemetery Association who also serves as its historian. One of the veterans honored has a significant legacy in St. Louis.
Rev. Thomas Roy Musick who was a private in the American Revolutionary War and later became a minister, is credited for having established the first Baptist church in St. Louis. Fee Fee Baptist Church, founded in 1807 is still in existence today in Bridgerton down the street from the Fee Fee Cemetery. While each veteran’s grave had an individual marker, the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) wanted to commemorate the gentlemen collectively. “They had a design for the marker and we met with them to agree on an appropriate location. They had the marker made and set in a location along the main entrance to the cemetery,” Miller says. The five American Revolutionary patriots are buried among others who served the country. Others who have been memorialized at the Fee Fee cemetery are veterans who’ve served in the War of 1812, the Spanish American War, the Civil War, both World Wars, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Though the cemetery offers military burials, it is unknown why it has become a significant burial ground for veterans. But the legacy of those remembered at Fee Fee Cemetery continue on every day in the background of our lives. DECEMBER JANUARY 2021 2022
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