Our Town: June 2022 by Community News

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Our Town Volume 13 | Number 6 JUNE 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

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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Around Town

St. Louis SLAM Women’s Tackle Football returns to the field after a two-year hiatus in search of the team’s fifth national championship and more.

Feature St. Louis on canvas Renowned artist finds inspiration in prominent St. Louis landmarks By Wendy Todd

Our Thoughts Moore on Life author Cindy Moore has trouble keeping tabs on her credit card while Avalanche discovers his neighborhood has gone to the dogs.

Lifestyle 2022 Nissan Pathfinder is a flexible family vehicle in Automobile Alley. Obscure Marvel comics that could be great films/shows in Entertainment. Chef-worthy summer classics in For the Love of Food.

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Events Calendar

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2022 awardees honored at Forest Park Earth Day Festival Thousands of visitors attended earthday365’s 2022 Earth Day Festival at Forest Park on April 23. This year, for the first time, earthday365 honored local conservation champions with a Sustainability Awards Ceremony. Following a keynote speech from Rep. Cori Bush, The School District of University City and Principia School in St. Louis County were honored as awardees for the U.S. Department of Education’s 2022 Green Ribbon Honorees. Across the country, only 27 schools, five districts, and four postsecondary institutions were honored for their innovative efforts to reduce environmental impact and utility costs, improve health and wellness, and ensure effective sustainability education in 2022. These honorees were named from a pool of candidates nominated by 19 states. The recognition earned by University City and Principia comes after an application process through the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and Missouri Green Schools, a partnership of the Missouri Environmental Education Association and the U.S. Green Building Council-Missouri Gateway Chapter. The School District of University City constructed multiple LEED Certified elementary schools, solar panels, and 49,000 square feet of rain gardens for water conservation. Principia has shown their commitment to helping the environment by restoring 42 acres of forest and six acres of savanna in suburban St. Louis, creating a biodiverse “island” accessible to students and wildlife alike. Following the award ceremony for Principia School and the School District of University City, earthday365 honored the winners of their first ever St. Louis Earth Day Festival Sustainability Awards. Rebecca Hankins, Partnership Coordinator for Forest ReLeaf of Missouri, was given the Emerging Environmental Leader Award in recognition of her work with the nonprofit. Forest ReLeaf, a Missouri Green Schools Partner, plants trees for free with the help of volunteers, with a particular emphasis

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Heating & Air Conditioning

Representatives of Principia pose for a picture with their award and Representative Cori Bush.

on solving the issue of urban heat islands. Hankins has become a tireless advocate of social and environmental justice in our region. The Wolf Cafe in Ballwin and Home Sweet Home from Brentwood were then recognized with the “Food for Thought Green Dining Alliance Excellence” and “Recognizing Sustainability in Business” awards, respectively. Carlotta Lewis was awarded the Keystone Community Activist Award, an award designed to recognize the work of an individual who has made “significant impacts in the area of environmental justice is St. Louis area communities of color.” Lewis has been with Missouri State Parks for 24 years, and has helped impoverished youth develop a deep connection to nature. Carlotta has also previously spoken at events to promote racial equity in connections and opportunities for local outdoor spaces. Finally, Jean Ponzi of the EarthWays Center of the Missouri Botanical Garden and the USGBC-Missouri Gateway Chapter, was awarded the Hellbender Award for Lifetime Achievement in Environmental Sustainability. Ponzi has been an environmental champion for the state for 30-plus years, and has previously won the Missouri Waste Control Coalition’s Lifetime Achievement Award, as well as numerous other regional and national honors. In addition to her work with the EarthWays Center, Ponzi has hosted “Earthworms”, a podcast/radio show about “all things green,” since 1988.

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Blues at the Arch Live music shakes up Gateway Arch National Park at Blues at the Arch Festival this August Experience blues music like never before on the Arch grounds. Gateway Arch Park Foundation, in partnership with the National Blues Museum and the National Park Service, will host Blues at the Arch, reimagined as a free music festival, Aug. 12-14. The Blues at the Arch Festival pays tribute to St. Louis’ storied blues history and showcases the talents of national and local entertainers in the North Gateway of Gateway Arch National Park, near the Eads Bridge and Laclede’s Landing. For the first time, the 2022 Blues at the Arch Festival will feature food trucks, a market, after parties and more on Aug. 12 and Aug. 13. On Aug. 14, guests are invited to attend a special Sunday Blues Brunch at 612North and explore the park and National Blues Museum. Additionally, local visual artists can enter a competition to design the 2022 festival poster. “We are eager to welcome guests from across the country to Gateway Arch National Park to enjoy a true ‘St. Louis experience’ at the Blues at the Arch Festival, especially after two years of virtual concerts,” said Ryan McClure, executive director of Gateway Arch Park Foundation. “Hosting events like this is part of our mission to keep our hometown national treasure vibrant now and for generations to come. If you haven’t been to the park in a while, there’s no better time than a weekend-long music festival to enjoy it in a brand-new way with family and friends.” “The blues continues to be a thriving art form in St. Louis because of accessible programming like the Blues at the Arch Festival,” said Erin Simon, deputy director of the National Blues Museum. “Offering this event for free to the community allows more people to learn about the city’s robust heritage with the blues while showcasing the best in the genre both locally and nationally. That is what keeps blues alive, and it’s incredible to bring all of these artists on one stage to celebrate the blues’ past, present and bright future.” For more information on the Blues at the Arch Festival, visit archpark.org/blues. Call for artists: festival poster competition Gateway Arch Park Foundation and National Blues Museum are seeking artwork from a diverse group of artists for a commemorative 2022 Blues at the Arch Festival poster. Visual artists over the age of 18 living in the St. Louis area are encouraged to apply. BIPOC artists, women artists, LGBTQ+ artists and artists with disabilities are especially encouraged to apply. The selected artist will be given a stipend of $1,000 for their commissioned artwork, intended to cover the cost of design, artist fee, and delivery of final artwork. Artists may submit up to three artistic samples for consideration of their art practice. Applications close June 1. The finalized artwork by the selected artist must be complete by June 17. The selected artist will receive a stipend of $1,000. Learn more about the poster contest and how to submit artwork at archpark.org/blues. JUNE 2022 | OUR TOWN | 5

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Amazing authors St. Louis County Library and the St. Louis Jewish Community Center announce SLCL Authors at the J SLCL Authors at the J – a joint event series by St. Louis County Library and the St. Louis Jewish Book Festival, a program of the St. Louis Jewish Community Center – is an event for readers throughout the St. Louis metro area starting in June. Over the years, SLCL’s popular author series has drawn thousands of readers to library headquarters on Lindbergh Blvd. where fans meet and engage with their favorite writers. When construction on a new library branch begins this summer, the nationallyrenowned author series will move off-site, with many events taking place at the J’s Staenberg Family Complex in the Mirowitz Performing Arts & Banquet Center, thanks to a partnership between SLCL and the J’s St. Louis Jewish Book Festival. The J’s Staenberg Family Complex is located at 2 Millstone Campus Drive in St. Louis County. “We are thrilled to partner with the J to offer SLCL author events in their Performing Arts Center while our headquarters is under construction. We look forward to combining our enthusiastic audiences and connecting the readers of St. Louis with many more nationally-renowned, popular authors,” said Kristen Sorth, St. Louis County Library Director and CEO. “The J is beyond excited to partner with the St. Louis County Library,” said Lynn Wittels, J President & CEO. “The St. Louis Jewish Book Festival has a rich, 44-year tradition in St. Louis, and this collaboration will further our efforts to promote authors, books, and literacy throughout the St. Louis region.” On June 1, SLCL Authors at the J will kick off with an event featuring Jeff Nussbaum, speechwriter for President Biden and author of “Undelivered: The Never-Heard Speeches that Would Have Re-Written History.” Other highlights from the June line-up include Chris Pavone, bestselling author of international spy thrillers, and an event with St. Louis Olympic committee chairman Michael Loynd in conversation with Olympic legend and East St. Louis native Jackie Joyner-Kersee. Additional information about St. Louis County Library’s author series is available at www.slcl.org/authors. Unless otherwise noted, all events are free and open to the public.

SLCL AUTHORS @ THE J – JUNE SCHEDULE: Wednesday, June 1, 7 p.m. Jeff Nussbaum, “Undelivered: The Never-Heard Speeches that Would Have Re-Written History” For every delivered speech, there exists an undelivered opposite. In “Undelivered,” political speechwriter Jeff Nussbaum presents the most notable speeches the public has never heard. Examining the

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historic moments that almost came to be, Nussbaum considers not only what they tell us about the past, but also what they can inform us about our present. Tuesday, June 7, 7 p.m. Chris Pavone, “Two Nights in Lisbon” Bestselling author of “The Paris Diversion,” Chris Pavone presents an expertly crafted thriller. Ariel Pryce wakes up in her Lisbon hotel room to discover her new husband has vanished. She starts with hotel security, then the police, then the American embassy, each confronting a question she can’t fully answer: Why does Ariel know so little about her husband? June 13, 7 p.m. B.A. Shapiro, “Metropolis” Author of the bestseller “The Art Forger,” B. A. Shapiro presents a masterful novel of psychological suspense. The novel follows a cast of unforgettable characters whose lives intersect after a harrowing accident at the Metropolis Storage Warehouse. As the characters dip in and out of one another’s lives, Shapiro builds tension to an exciting climax. June 15, 7 p.m. Michael Loynd, “The Watermen: The Birth of American Swimming and One Young Man’s Fight to Capture Olympic Gold” In Conversation with Olympic Legend Jackie Joyner Kersee Sports attorney Michael Loynd is chairman of the St. Louis Olympic Committee. His new book “The Watermen” shares the underdog story of Charles Daniels, the first American swimmer to win Olympic gold. Interwoven with Charles’s story is the struggle to establish the modern Olympics in an era when competitive sports were still in their infancy. June 23, 7 p.m. Lynne Cox, “Tales of Al: The Water Rescue Dog” Internationally famous for swimming the world’s most difficult waterways, Lynne Cox celebrates all forms of athleticism in others, human or otherwise. When she saw a video of a Newfoundland dog leaping from a helicopter to save someone from drowning, Cox was captivated. “Tales of Al” is the inspiring story of Cox’s adventures with the spectacular dogs at SICS, the famed school that has trained hundreds of dogs for rescue operations. June 29, 7 p.m. Louis Bayard, “Jackie & Me” The romance and marriage of charming and powerful Jack Kennedy and beautiful, mysterious debutante Jacqueline Bouvier would come to define an age. But how did these two come together? Taking place mostly during the summer before Jack and Jackie’s wedding, “Jackie & Me” is a searching novel about a young woman of a certain class with narrow options.

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Clear the air Transportation is one of the biggest contributors to air pollution. In conjunction with the start of the St. Louis Regional Clean Air Partnership’s daily air quality forecasting season, more than half a dozen partners, who collectively provide an array of transportation options that extend beyond driving in single-occupancy vehicles along with resources and incentives for doing so, are joining forces to kick-off a “Don’t Pollute. Switch Up Your Commute” campaign. With increasing numbers of people heading back to their offices as we move beyond the COVID-19 pandemic, this summerlong effort will work to inform people the way they choose to travel impacts the quality of air St. Louis area residents breathe, while motivating them to modify commuting behaviors as often as they are able. “The St. Louis region is no stranger to poor air quality conditions,” said Susannah Fuchs, Director of Clean Air for the American Lung Association in Missouri. “There is a lot of work to be done to protect our local communities from the continued risks to public health resulting from high levels of ozone, particularly during the summer months. It’s very important that area residents stay informed about the quality of the air we breathe and continue to take voluntary steps to reduce emissions to help improve outcomes.” Area residents can visit www.SwitchUpYourCommute.com to download the color-coded air quality forecast, which provides daily updates via email or text stating if the forecast for the following day

is a GREEN (good), YELLOW (moderate), ORANGE (unhealthy for sensitive groups) or RED (unhealthy) air quality day. The first 200 people to download the forecast will receive a free, STL-STYLE campaign T-shirt. From there, individuals are being encouraged to show they care about clean air by taking transit, carpooling, vanpooling, walking, biking or telecommuting. The site provides detailed information about all transportation options available on both sides of the Mississippi River – and links to associated schedules, pricing, programs, ride matching services, incentives and more. “The region is in a race for cleaner air and the campaign is two-fold,” added Kimberly Cella, Executive Director for Citizens for Modern Transit. “First, partners aim to educate. Then, as the summer heats up and the potential for poor air quality days to be forecasted increases, we want people to take action.” When an ORANGE or RED air quality day is forecasted, those who have registered for the daily air quality forecast will receive a text message asking them if they plan to modify their commute the following day – and if so – how. These respondents – along with those who post a picture of themselves on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter taking transit, carpooling, vanpooling or telecommuting on a poor air quality day and include #SwitchUpYourCommute – will be entered to win a variety of prizes through the end of the air quality forecasting season on Sept. 30. “In light of rising gas prices, area residents should consider the cost savings

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Partners kick-off ‘Don’t Pollute. Switch Up Your Commute’ campaign

In conjunction with the start of the St. Louis Regional Clean Air Partnership’s daily air quality forecasting season, more than half a dozen partners are joining forces to kick-off a “Don’t Pollute. Switch Up Your Commute” campaign.

with the alternatives. Not only is there savings on day-to-day gasoline, but also the maintenance costs of vehicles,” added Taulby Roach, President and CEO of Bi-State Development, which operates Metro Transit. “It’s a win-win with cleaner air and fuller wallets!” To learn more about the region’s air quality, transportation options, campaign efforts and how area businesses can get involved, visit www.SwitchUpYourCommute.com.

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AroundTown

A hole-in-one Winner of APGA Tour St. Louis – Ascension Classic to receive exemption into World Wide Technology Championship The APGA Tour St. Louis – Ascension Classic announced that the winner of its inaugural event, coming to North St. Louis County Sept. 8-9 at Glen Echo Country Club, will receive an exemption into the PGA Tour’s World Wide Technology Championship at Mayakoba this fall. This coveted playing spot – the first of its kind – is a natural progression for the innovative World Wide Technology Championship at Mayakoba, which has a history and foundation built on making the game of golf more global and inclusive. In addition to their title sponsorship at Mayakoba, St. Louis-headquartered World Wide Technology (WWT) is committed to bringing greater diversity to the sport of golf by serving as title sponsor of the APGA Tour’s Player Development Program and as a Community Partner of the new Ascension Classic. WWT is also a founding partner of the Ascension Charity Classic presented by Emerson, an official PGA Tour Champions event that debuted with enormous success last fall, and will be played again the week of Sept. 5 at Norwood Hills Country Club in St. Louis. Matt Horner, World Wide Technology, Executive Vice President offered, “We are very excited about bringing together two of our lead golf sponsorships by connecting the World Wide Technology Championship at Mayakoba through extending an exemption to the winner of the APGA Tour Ascension Classic. The inaugural St. Louis APGA event is a great addition to the APGA Tour and the St. Louis sports landscape and we are proud to partner with Ascension and so many others. The APGA Tour has built on years of success in assisting with the development of many young individuals who seek to compete professionally while learning and growing. World Wide Technology aligns with the belief that everyone deserves an opportunity to follow their passion, without barriers, and we recog-

nize the APGA Tour in their efforts to lead within professional golf. “World Wide Technology has been a leader in making golf more diverse and inclusive, and we’re thrilled that our APGA Ascension Classic champion will have the opportunity to compete in a premier event on the PGA Tour,’ said Nick Ragone, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer for Ascension. “For the APGA Tour to become a truly developmental tour for the PGA Tour, it requires companies like World Wide Technology and other committed partners to provide access and opportunity, and we’re so appreciative that our winner will be able to tee it up alongside the best in the world.” While the PGA Tour Champions stars are teeing it up at Norwood Hills, the potential stars of tomorrow on the APGA Tour will be showcased less than three miles away at historic Glen Echo, which was established in 1901. The APGA Tour, established in 2010, is a nonprofit organization with the mission to prepare African-American and other underrepresented golfers to compete and win at the highest level of professional golf – both on tour and in the golf industry. This is accomplished through professional tournaments, career development and mentoring. With one of the APGA’s missions being to ease the financial burden associated with golf, support from Ascension and World Wide Technology will help ensure that players have access to the tools and support they need to better focus on their career path and development in the game. “We are thrilled that the winner of our new APGA Tour event in St. Louis will get an exemption into the World Wide Technology Championship at Mayakoba,” said Ken Bentley APGA CEO. “It will add another level of excitement to what will be one of the top events of the year for our players.”

Ramble on

Moonlight Ramble will be held Aug. 13 The Moonlight Ramble\ bike ride will be held this summer on Aug. 13 for its 58th edition. The Moonlight Ramble is the longest running nighttime bike ride in the U.S. and a great source of pride for St. Louis. The ride that began with one cyclist has grown into an annual tradition with thousands of riders taking to the streets of St. Louis at night under the light of the full moon. The historic event, managed by St. Louis-based, Big River Race Management, returned as a live ride last year with more than 3,000 participants after being forced to go virtual in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “The Grove will again serve as our fun and energetic start and finish area this year, but we are looking forward to unveiling a new route the week of the event that will allow riders to cycle past some of St. Louis’ most well-known landmarks,” said Matt Helbig, CEO of Big River Race Management. “The Moonlight Ramble has always been a unique and memorable experience allowing cyclists to safely 8 | OUR TOWN | JUNE 2022

ride the moonlight streets of St. Louis. Every year we continue to add to the experience to treat riders of all experience levels and ages to this bucket-list event.” Big River has named Trailnet as this year’s charity partner. A portion of each registration from this year’s event as well as 100% of all donations collected will go to Trailnet to help them advance their mission to foster healthy, active and vibrant communities where walking, biking and the use of public transit are a way of life. “The Moonlight Ramble is a tradition in our city and Big River brings their nationally-recognized expertise to create a ride that elevates the safety for all riders,” said Trailnet’s CEO Cindy Mense. “We are excited to continue our partnership to bring St. Louis a family-friendly ride for us all to enjoy in- person! I’m personally looking forward to riding through some of our great St. Louis neighborhoods.” Registration for the event is available through www.moonlightramble.com.

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A winning tradition St. Louis SLAM Women’s Tackle Football returns to the field after a two-year hiatus in search of the team’s fifth national championship BY WENDY TODD North County resident Raven Williams has been athletic her whole life, but only began playing organized sports in high school. She didn’t continue the activity in college and after graduating realized she missed it. Williams asked a friend of hers if he knew of any women’s sports teams in the area. “He linked me to a flag football coach, and there I met Robyn Morrow, a retired veteran player, who told me about SLAM,” Williams said. SLAM is a female tackle football team based in St. Louis that is part of the Women’s Football Alliance. After over two years off the field, they had their first game April 30. The team played its first game in 2003 with its then-head coach, Nancy Simonds, who was the first female head coach in the history of the National Women’s Football Alliance, formerly the National Women’s Football League. After playing successfully in the WFA Tier II Division, the team has moved up to the Pro Division. And with 14 new players, the team is ready to compete and hope to win a fifth national championship. Though the team has achieved successes, there are a few challenges, such as not getting as much recognition the team feels it deserves. “I had a work meeting a couple weeks ago and a person said ‘St. Louis only has baseball, hockey and now soccer,’” Williams, an outside linebacker said. “I politely interjected and said we have ‘St. Louis SLAM Women’s Tackle Football as well.’” The team also has difficulty securing provisions for practicing. “It’s harder for us to get access to resources we need like fields and practice facilities,” Williams said. Another issue players face is being on the road and missing out

SUBMITTED PHOTO SLAM is a female tackle football team based in St. Louis that is part of the Women’s Football Alliance. After over two years off the field, they had their first game April 30.

on time with loved ones. “The biggest challenge is the time away from family and friends,” says Pamela Green, who also lives in North County and plays defensive end and left tackle. “I have missed many holidays, graduations and birthdays due to practice and game days.” But with the difficulties also come close connections. “I’ve literally met some of my best friends while playing football,” Williams said. “Some life changing situations have happened to me during my football career and my team helped me through them all. I say all the time that I don’t know where I would be without the SLAM. Being able to play with people I consider family is what’s most enjoyable to me.” Green agrees that she’s made great friends in her six years of being on the team. She’d also like people to know that SLAM is no different from a men’s football team. “I don’t think anything is different,” Green said. “We practice hard and play hard and put in the same amount of effort as the men.” SLAM games are played at St. Mary’s High School in South City. For more information go to www.stlslamfootball.com.

Help for youth Save Our Youth offering free mental health counseling for St. Louis County youth Save Our Youth (SOY) has received a $150,000 grant from St. Louis County Children’s Service Fund (CSF). The money will provide free mental health counseling to at-risk youth from age five to 19 in St. Louis County. SOY is a registered 501(c)(3) organization that encourages and supports the positive development of youth and their families in historically underserved communities. We offer strategies that enable youth and their families to communicate effectively and develop more secure relationships. Our mental health program will help youth develop a firmer family support system. The mission of CSF is to improve the lives of children, youth, and their families in St. Louis County by strategically investing in the cre-

ation and maintenance of an integrated system of care that delivers effective and quality mental health and substance abuse services. Evidence-based research reports increased fear, hopelessness, defiant behavior, academic failure, depression, suicidal ideation, grief and loss, and fractured familial relationships resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. The need for mental health support is dire for underserved and high-risk children and teens in the St. Louis area! For more information about mental health support for your teen/ children, or if you would like to make a donation or volunteer, please call 314-850-7476 or go to www.parentstrainup.com/ saveouryouth. JUNE 2022 | OUR TOWN | 9

The Metro Market, which was founded in 2013 and became operational in 2015, runs from April to November, travels to different sites that have been determined to have a high need for access to fresh produce and additional healthy options.

St. Louis ON CANVAS Renowned artist finds inspiration in prominent St. Louis landmarks BY WENDY TODD

When John Salozzo was a little boy living in New Jersey, he took art lessons in secret. His father didn’t think being an artist was a viable option, so his mother made a pact with an art teacher that Salozzo would take art classes and keep it a secret from his dad. “None of my friends, even through high school, knew that I was an artist,” Salozzo said. “I would exhibit under a different name.” His mother’s trickiness led to Salozzo becoming a talented and successful commercial artist who specializes in “elegant realism.” One of his projects features prominent St. Louis landmarks. Salozzo continued his art education at Mercer Community College and then Rhode Island School of Design. He got a job right out of school at the famed Bachrach Photographers to do retouching.

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“Bachrach Photographers had photographed every president since Abraham Lincoln,” Salozzo said. “If you have ever seen the stamp of JFK, that’s a backpack photograph. They’re very prestigious. I learned an awful lot there with airbrushing and everything. I got tremendous training on top of school.” Salozzo’s training and skill even got him the opportunity to create the 1986 album cover for the group, Boston, known for the song, “More Than a Feeling.” After some time in England and Boston, where he lived for 20 years, he relocated to his wife’s hometown, St. Louis. He became inspired by the area’s iconic landmarks and developed a series of paintings to feature them, including the famous Amoco sign, Busch Stadium and the Ted Drewes shop. “I see a lot of things that are visually interesting that other people who lived here their whole lives don’t,”

Salozzo said. “They just know what they are, like the Courtesy Diner. They know the Courtesy Diner but when they actually see a painting of it is different. I paint things where people are having a life experience.” The Amoco sign intrigued Salozzo because he thought the notoriety of a sign was unusual.

“I see a lot of things that are visually interesting that other people who lived here their whole lives don’t.” ~John Salazzo , Local Artist “I just thought it was weird that there was a huge Amoco sign

that everybody knew about,” Salozzo said. Salozzo’s art has been commissioned by private collectors, showcased in galleries and has been licensed by companies for reproduction. His paintings of St. Louis icons are very popular in the area. “When I did a painting of Woofie’s I posted it on Facebook and within eight hours it was sold,” he said. Though he no longer works full-time, Salozzo by no means feels as if he’s retired. He still does projects and does gallery shows though that has slowed down due to the Coronavirus pandemic. Salozzo is a lifelong artist who continues to explore art and his interpretations of it. He has no plans to slow down any time soon. Salozzo reminds people that he still has a lot to do and discover and said, “I’m 65 and I’m just more and more into different kinds of fine art.” JUNE 2022 | OUR TOWN | 11

OurThoughts MOORE ON LIFE BY CINDY MOORE

WILD CARD Technology can be great…sometimes. We found the part that’s not so great – credit cards. The threat of some slime ball using them illegally caused us to invest in a fraud service. The agency would call anytime a suspicious charge showed up. It soon proved its worth. We got a call late one cold evening. “Hello, Mrs. Moore this is Foil a Felon safety agency. We’d like to verify that you’re in Acapulco and have just purchased a round of doubles for the entire resort…oh and a bacon cheeseburger, hold the mayo. If you have, that was very nice of you; if not, then we have issues.” “Huh?” I said. “We definitely have issues. I’m standing here in my thermal underwear chilled to the bone and about to crank up the heat and make myself a double hot chocolate.” “This often happens,” he said. “It looks like someone has sold your credit card information on the dark web. We’ll need to cancel your cards and issue new ones pronto. Enjoy that chocolate and keep the blinds shut because there’s probably a hefty fine for indecent exposure.” My husband was enraged at the thieves, but thrilled they had been stopped! Soon more calls came rolling in. “Mr. Moore, Foil a Felon here, did you just purchase a bulk order of gummy bears, three dozen donuts and an inflatable yard castle?” “My wife – grandkids, sleepover tonight.” “Mr. Moore did anyone there buy six tiny hand-

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knitted sweaters along with matching scarves?” “My wife – cats.” “Hey Bud, it’s Jeff. Hi, we haven’t spoken in…let’s see it’s been over 24 hours. Good to talk to you again. How’s that golf swing coming along? Kids are doing great, thanks for asking. Just called to verify, a large donation was taken out to feed orphaned barn weasels? Okay, gotcha. She does love those animals. Hope the cats are enjoying their sweaters. Talk soon.” I walked in the door just in time for a steely stare. “Hi sweetie. Who’ve you been talking to? I asked.” “Jeff.” “Jeff? Do we know a Jeff? Jeff who?” “Jeff from Foil a Felon security. We’re on first name basis.” “Oh, that Jeff; such a nice boy. You should invite him over.” “We’re golfing on Tuesday.” 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.

OurThoughts ALWAYS AN ADVENTURE BY AVALANCHE

DOG PARK

“We need a dog park here in the neighborhood,” one of my neighbors said. Given the fact that most of the homes here have canine residents as well as human occupants, it seemed like a good idea. We don’t have much in the way of common areas, but a place where the mutts can frolic freely would hold appeal to most of the residents, whether they have two or four legs. Our adjoining two HOA’s have a total of a little over 50 homes, depending on if you count some “accessory dwelling units,” (known as “sheds” by most folks. Housing is tough here.) In any case, there are only 10 of those dwellings that don’t keep one or more four-legged companions around. And three of those canine-free homes are owned by secondhome owners who travel too much to have dogs, cats or much else that would have to be transported in a crate. There are about as many dogs as homes. So, it’s safe to say that the neighborhood is “dog friendly.” Now, that’s not to say that all the dogs are friendly, at least to other dogs. They’re all pretty decent around people, as we haven’t had any aggressive dog-human conflicts. There have been a few dust-ups between mutts, where some fur flies and much sound and fury ensues. These scraps are quickly ended by the mutts themselves, as the pecking order is established with growls and teeth. None of the sparring matches have resulted in a vet visit, though there have been a few holes in hides. None of us, especially the dog-less homeowners, care much for the mutts that

Given the significant number of small children here, that’s probably a good thing. Lost dogs are cause for everyone to stop what they’re doing and look for the wayward pooch. After all, just outside the neighborhood is a busy state highway, a decidedly dog-unfriendly area; we all want to avoid poor outcomes. Just across that busy highway is public land, and a few hundred yards into the forest, there is a large dog memorial, consisting of a stack of PHOTO BY AVALANCHE large rocks about ten feet across and eight enjoy “recreational barking.” If a mutt is feet high. The impromptu mausoleum is obnoxious enough, a phone call or note adorned with dog collars, small boxes of to the neighbor is usually enough to take ashes, chew toys, and other memorabilia from the local dog walkers who frequent care of the problem. People seem to like their dogs in mul- the area. We knew most of the hounds tiple servings. Staci and I have two New- interred there, as the local community is foundlands, which top the scales at 250 fairly small. We’re an isolated, but closelbs. combined. Next door resides two knit bunch. On the cheerier side of the doggy life cyyellow labs, and down the block are two poodles. One couple have their own pack cle, a neighbor’s dog is due to have a litter about the time this story is published. By of five Australian Shepherds. It doesn’t take long to be able to hear the time you read this, dogs will outnuma dog barking, and identify which dog ber homes here in Backwoods Hideaway. Upon further consideration, we really is making the noise. When strangers or strange wildlife come through the neigh- don’t need a specific dog park; after all, borhood, those outsiders “run the gaunt- pretty much the whole community is a dog let” of barking. One can hear where the park. trespasser is and their direction of travel by listening to which dogs are barking, and in which order. You can even tell what kind of wildlife Avalanche is a functional ilcomes through the area, as deer that come literate who left the St. Louis three decades ago in through the neighborhood elicit their own area search of adventure. He entype of bark, and when the bears come joys motorcycling and all around, the barking is much more frantic things outdoors. He lives with and edgy. The dogs really don’t like them. his wife and dogs. JUNE 2022

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OurLifestyle

THE 2022

NISSAN PATHFINDER

is a flexible family vehicle Nissan Motors is making it clear that the 2022 Pathfinder will have up to 35 custom factory accessories on the option list to choose from. This helps to make this amazing vehicle even that much more attractive to buyers seeking an SUV in the midsize segment. Since first introduced 35-years ago, I would tend to agree with Nissan that passion runs deep with this adventurous vehicle. Owners gravitate to its long heritage of rugged capability, all while seeking family traveling flexibility. Advanced connectivity and safety features also help to make up the completely new Pathfinder. Every aspect of the vehicle was carefully engineered and designed. It further tends to convey a sense of strength and capability, by way of the vehicle’s strong front design, larger tires, the overall wide stance, robust appearing fenders and a shorter front overhang. This includes a distinctive signature three-slot front grille (an allegiance to the original Pathfinder), coupled with the vehicle’s C-shaped headlights and attractive roofline. Standard LED headlights include slim upper Daytime Running Lights, and the body side pillar has a fearless look that allows for the use of two-tone transition paint. All of this results in a tough, muscled footprint. In the rear, the enterprising LED taillights are slimmer than the previous design. Even the new aluminum-alloy wheel designs have a machined, tool like attractiveness to them. A total of 14 colors/color combinations (two-toned) are offered. 14 | OUR TOWN | JUNE 2022

The unmistakable Pathfinder is an ideal family vehicle, not just in looks, but with its capability as well. Power comes from a 284-horsepower, 3.5-liter Direct Injection V6 engine and an all-new nine-speed automatic transmission. This transmission consistently delivers the right gear, at the right time, helping improve fuel economy and overall driving comfort. It’s advanced intelligent four-wheel-drive system is set up with a seven-position, driver in-put Terrain Mode selector. This entails the options of; Standard, Sport, Eco, Snow, Sand, Mud/Rut and Tow mode. A newly developed electric power steering system provides for stable, quick response and less steering effort. Suspension upgrades coupled with a 50% increase in high strength body steel results in a confident driving experience. Optional, is a 6,000-pound maximum towing capacity enhancement. It helps in improving towing needs if you are focused towards ownership of water crafts, ATVs, or trailers. Fuel economy numbers indicate 21 mpg city, 26 mpg highway with the standard 2WD models. The vehicle’s interior features refined new materials and a robust open design. Driver and passengers are greeted with a modern, spacious environment. Standard eight-passenger capacity or optional second row captain chairs with a removable center console is offered. The 60/40 split folding third row seat provides maximum flexibility for carrying passengers and cargo. Acoustic laminated front glass and thicker carpeting results in a quieter interior.

Standard is Nissan’s Safety Shield 360. It includes Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, High Beam Assist and Rear Automatic Braking. Class exclusive Intelligent Forward Collision Warning, Intelligent Driver Alertness and Rear Door Alert are also standard. Blind Spot Intervention, Intelligent Lane Intervention and Traffic Sign Recognition are available. Ten airbags are standard. The 2022 Pathfinder SV and SL grades offer Nissan’s innovative ProPILOT Assist, a hands-on, driver assist technology that reduces the hassle of stop and go highway driving and makes long drives on the open highway easier. It’s manufactured in S, SV, SL and Platinum trim grades. Entry pricing starts out at $35,105. The base warranty is threeyear/36,000 miles.

BY DAVID FINKELSTEIN

David Finkelstein is a Master/ Skilled Automotive Service Technician and retired shop owner. He’s invented garage service tools for mechanics, served on both nation and local automotive trade industry boards, has done years of consulting with various auto manufactures plus test drives new vehicles weekly. David has pioneered “Car Talk Radio” over 35 years ago, as his new show “Automotive Insight” can be heard on Saturdays, on the Real Talk Radio Network.

OurLifestyle

Obscure

MARVEL

comics that could be great films/shows

Superhero movies with characters such as Superman, Thor, Wonder Woman and Iron Man typically attracted decent crowds. In 2015, the Marvel Cinematic Universe released “Ant-Man,” a film about a man who could shrink to ant-size. Paul Rudd played Scott Lang, a convict who became an unlikely hero. The film was a box-office success and led to the sequel “Ant-Man and the Wasp.” With his great comic timing, Paul Rudd delivered the right sarcastic notes in his delivery while playing Scott. The talented Michael Pena also was on hand as Luis, Scott’s jailhouse friend who told hilarious, long-winded stories. Over the years, Marvel produced other titles that weren’t as well-known, but had great potential. In the 1980’s, “Strikeforce Morituri” hit the comic stands and attracted a dedicated following. The story was set in the future at a time when aliens had invaded the Earth. To combat them, Dr. Kimmo Tuolema created the Morituri Process that granted superhuman abilities to young people that would kill them within a year. This was a great comic series and would make a solid Disney+ series. In 2004, “South Park” creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone released “Team America: World Police,” a raunchy comedy about a counter-terrorist group. Two decades earlier, Marvel Comics had released “Team America,” a new series that was cancelled after a 12-issue run. The criminal organization known as HYDRA exposed women to dangerous chemicals to create mutant offspring. When they were older, some of their offspring met each and discovered they could summon an apparition known as “The Dark Rider.” The superhero battle in the first “Avengers” movie created

a huge amount of collateral damage. As shown in 2016’s “Spider-Man: Homecoming,” New York City contracted with Adrian Toomes (played by Michael Keeton) and his crew to clean up the mess. Toomes had a solid agreement with the city, but Tony Stark and the U.S. government overrode them by creating the Department of Damage Control (DODC) that left Toomes out in the cold. A DODC series would be perfect for Disney’s streaming service. In the late 1980’s, Marvel Comics created the “New Universe” titles that did not connect with the mainstream Marvel Universe. “DP7,” for instance, followed a group of displaced paranormals who were held in a medical facility. Before Kurt Warner arrived on the scene, “Kickers, inc.” looked at Jack Magniconte, a football player who gained incredible abilities. “Star Brand” was a series that showed the darker side of superpowers. The “New Universe” contained eight titles and some have the potential for bigger things. Eager young people willing to sacrifice their lives. Unwitting mutants who did not know their true origins. The ultimate clean-up crew. These stories really should make it to TV or the big screen. 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.

JUNE 2022

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OurLifestyle Pico de Gallo:

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

3/4 cup Roma tomatoes, diced into 1/4-inch pieces 3 tablespoons white onion, diced into 1/4-inch pieces 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped fine 1 teaspoon jalapeno, minced fine, with seeds 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Guacamole: 2

medium avocados, peeled, seeded and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice 1/4 cup pico de gallo 1 tablespoon fresh garlic, minced 1 tablespoon olive oil 1/2 teaspoon jalapeno, minced

Shrimp Tostadas:

12 ounces shrimp, thawed 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 teaspoon chili powder 1/2 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon salt 1 cup canned refried pinto beans or refried black beans 4 tostada flats 1 cup shredded romaine lettuce 1 cup guacamole 1 cup pico de gallo 2 tablespoons shredded Cotija cheese 4 cilantro sprigs 4 lime wedges

Chef-Worthy

SUMMER CLASSICS Grilled Shrimp Tostadas with Guacamole and Pico de Gallo Prep time: 20 minutes | Cook time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

elebrating summer with sizzling meals starts with tender, juicy cuts of meat that take center stage when dining on the patio or firing up the grill. Call over the neighbors or simply enjoy family time with your nearest and dearest by savoring the flavor of warm weather meals. Steak enthusiasts and burger lovers alike can show off their summer cooking skills with these recipes for Southwest Steaks with Creamy Peppercorn Sauce and Parmesan-Herb Fries and Fried Lobster Po Boy Cheeseburgers from Omaha Steaks Executive Chef David Rose. Thick, juicy, marbled steaks are cooked to tender doneness and complemented by steakhouse-style fries while savory lobster is combined with all-American burgers. For seafood connoisseurs, Grilled Shrimp Tostadas with Guacamole and Pico de Gallo offer an easy way to add shrimp to the menu. Just fire up the grill and allow seared seafood to mingle with fresh, homemade toppings for a light summertime bite. Find more summer favorites at OmahaSteaks.com/ Summer.

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Directions: To make pico de gallo: In bowl, mix tomatoes, onion, cilantro, jalapeno, lime juice and salt. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

To make guacamole: In bowl, mix avocados, lime juice, 1/4 cup pico de gallo, garlic, olive oil, jalapeno and salt. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use. To make shrimp tostadas: In bowl, combine shrimp, olive oil, chili powder, cumin and salt. Marinate in refrigerator at least 15 minutes or up to 2 hours. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Clean and season grill grates. Grill shrimp 2-3 minutes per side until lightly charred and opaque. Heat refried beans and spread 2 tablespoons beans on each tostada flat. Spread shredded romaine lettuce on top of beans followed by guacamole and remaining pico de gallo. Top each tostada with 3-4 grilled shrimp and sprinkle with Cotija cheese. Garnish each tostada with one cilantro sprig and one lime wedge.

OurLifestyle

Fried Lobster Po Boy Cheeseburgers Recipe courtesy of Omaha Steaks Executive Chef David Rose Prep time: about 20 minutes | Cook time: about 20 minutes | Servings: 2

Ingredients:

Pimento Remoulade:

1/2 cup mayonnaise 1 1/2 tablespoons minced pimentos 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon minced bread and butter pickles 1 pepperoncino, seeded and minced 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice 3 dashes hot sauce kosher salt, to taste

Fried Lobster Tails:

Vegetable oil, for frying 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, divided 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 large egg 1 tablespoon water 2 dashes hot sauce 1/4 cup potato chips, finely blended in food processor 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs 1 tablespoon minced flat leaf Italian parsley 2 lobster tails (5 ounces each)

Cheeseburgers:

1 pound ground beef salt, to taste freshly ground black pepper, to taste 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature 2 brioche buns 2 slices yellow cheddar cheese 3 leaves romaine lettuce, shredded

Directions: To make pimento remoulade: In small bowl, mix mayonnaise, pimentos, mustard, pickles, pepperoncino, paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, lemon juice and hot sauce until well-incorporated. Season with salt, to taste.

until golden-brown and cooked through. Close grill lid between flipping.

To make fried lobster tails: Preheat grill to 400 F and add oil to 10-inch cast-iron pan, about 1/2-inch deep.

Using thumb, make dimple in center of each patty to help cook evenly.

In medium bowl, whisk flour, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, garlic powder and smoked paprika until well-incorporated. Set aside. In separate medium bowl, whisk egg, water and hot sauce. Set aside. In third medium bowl, whisk potato chips, panko breadcrumbs and parsley until well-incorporated. Set aside. Cut lobster tails in half lengthwise, remove meat from shell and season with remaining kosher salt and black pepper. Toss halved lobster tails in flour mixture first, egg mixture second and potato chip mixture third, coating thoroughly. Fry lobster tails 3-4 minutes on each side

To make cheeseburgers: Preheat grill to 450 F using direct heat. Form ground beef into two 1/2-pound patties, each about 1/2-inch thick.

Season both sides of burger with salt and pepper, to taste. Spread butter on each cut-side of buns. Grill burgers 4-5 minutes per side for medium doneness. Add one slice cheddar cheese on each burger, close lid and grill about 30 seconds to melt cheese. Remove patties from grill to clean plate. Place buns cutsides down on grill grates and toast 2030 seconds, or until well toasted, being careful to avoid burning. To assemble: Place desired amount of remoulade on buns. Place cheeseburgers on bottom buns. Top each with two fried lobster tail halves. Place handful shredded lettuce on lobster tails. Top with buns. JUNE 2022

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InDepth

NUTRITION on wheels The St. Louis MetroMarket, a mobile grocery store, is in its seventh year of helping people get access to healthy foods BY WENDY TODD

early one fifth of the St. Louis-area population lives in a food desert, which is an urban area where it is difficult for residents to find fresh and quality foods. The St. Louis MetroMarket, a mobile grocery store fashioned out of a Metro Transit bus that runs in partnership with Operation Food Search is in its seventh year of helping people get access to healthy foods.

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InDepth The Metro Market, which was founded in 2013 and became operational in 2015, runs from April to November, travels to different sites that have been determined to have a high need for access to fresh produce and additional healthy options. The market served 34,000 people last year and just kicked off another season ready to provide as many communities with affordable foods as possible. Corporate and community partnerships have helped the market serve the public. “We are working with community members to bridge the gaps around affordability, accessibility and nutrition education,” said Quinton Ward, manager of the market. To continue providing effective services, the market has also recently partnered with Mercy Clinic and Dierbergs. MetroMarket is happy for the support from organizations that “understand the importance of fresh food access here in St. Louis,” Ward said. In explaining how the market attempts to provide a rotating variety of quality produce, frozen meats and healthy options, Ward pointed to one of his latest favorite products. “One new item that I tried that I really like are the pickled beets,” Ward said. In addition to a variety of food items, the market also attempts to visit a host of locations. It travels regularly between Wednesday and Friday to locations near downtown St. Louis to Florissant, and makes alternate stops on Saturdays. “We want to ensure community members have multiple opportunities to access MetroMarket and its programming,” Ward said. The MetroMarket has become a welcome resource for those who face obstacles in accessing affordable and healthy groceries. Food deserts remain a pervasive problem in the region but the MetroMarket will be on the road doing its part to address inequities in healthy eating and nutrition.

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JUNE 6

D-Day

Loving Day

Flag Day

Father’s Day

Juneteenth

American Eagle Day

First Day of Summer