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Our Town Volume 11 | Number 12 DECEMBER 2020 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 Saint Louis Ballet presents ‘Nutcracker Extravaganza’ and more.
Non Profit Profile PUBLISHER/EDITOR IN CHIEF Mathew DeKinder PUBLISHER EMERITUS/ GENERAL MANAGER Bob Huneke PRODUCTION Becky Brockmann Melissa Nordmann CONTRIBUTORS Avalanche, David Finkelstein, Cindy Moore
The National Museum of Transportation announces their 2020 holiday festivities.
Feature A growing tribute The Holocaust Museum Learning Center has been renamed the St. Louis Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum and has broken ground for a $21 million expansion project. By Charlotte Beard
Our Thoughts STAFF WRITERS Brett Auten Charlotte Beard
Moore on Life author Cindy Moore makes a Christmas wish list while Avalanche encounters some buzy beavers.
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The 2020 Ford Mustang powers up a classic American car brand in Automobile Alley. New films debuting simultaneously on streaming services and in theaters in Entertainment. Popping up festive holiday fun in For the Love of Food.
In Depth The nonprofit BACK@YOU makes and distributes backpacks specially designed for people living on the streets.
Events Calendar Staff Writer – Charlotte Beard Cover Photo – Submitted
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AroundTown
Facing down cancer Pedal the Cause raises $3 million for St. Louis cancer research institutions
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Pedal the Cause announced their 2020 donation total on Nov. 19 through a celebratory Check Presentation Livestream - $3,005,498 to Siteman Cancer Center and Siteman Kids at St. Louis Children’s Hospital. 100 percent of this donation will support new ideas in adult and pediatric cancer research that are not currently eligible for federal funds. This donation brings the total funds donated by Pedal the Cause over the past 11 years to $32,083,109. This money has funded 156 cancer research projects - 122 adult and 34 pediatric. Funds donated by Pedal the Cause in 2020 will be immediately distributed to the most promising research projects in 2021, as determined by each institution. On Sept.26 and 27, 3,454 adults and children completed a physical challenge on their own centered on biking, spinning, running and walking, while raising money to fund innovative cancer research as part of Pedal the Cause Inspired. Participants stayed connected through a livestreamed Inspirational Program and various interactive opportunities throughout the weekend. “If there was ever a year that needed inspiration, it’s 2020,” said David Drier, executive director of Pedal the Cause. “Despite the challenging circumstances brought about by the pandemic, we had participants from 37 states register and fundraise for cancer research. The $3 million we are donating represents the passion, determination and commitment of the Pedal Family and the trust our community has in Siteman to end cancer.” “Pedal the Cause has been an extraordinary partner in the search for cures,” said Timothy J. Eberlein, MD, director of Siteman Cancer Center. “From the organization to sponsors, participants and donors, everyone involved is helping to build a better tomorrow. We are grateful for your support – and as committed as ever to creating a world without cancer.” “Over the years, Pedal the Cause has been an important contributor to early-stage funding of world-class pediatric cancer research at Siteman Kids at St. Louis Children’s,” said Trish Lollo, St. Louis Children’s president. “This was especially true in 2020, when life changed so much for so many and participation and fundraising had to go virtual. We are inspired by the entire Pedal the Cause community, and it is a testament to them that – against stiff headwinds – they were still able to raise more than $3 million for cancer research that will lead to better outcomes for more kids.” Currently, one in two men and one in three women will develop cancer in their lifetime. Even with major advances in treatment, cancer remains the second most common cause of death in the US. The generous support of sponsors, led by Edward Jones, ensures that 100 percent of donations made to Pedal the Cause directly fund cancer research. Pedal the Cause is the region’s largest peerto-peer fundraising event, and funds early-stage research ideas using the venture capital model.
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AroundTown
Fighting coronavirus Bethesda joins with Eli Lilly and Company on Phase 3 clinical trial for COVID-19 prevention Bethesda Health Group has been selected to partner with drug manufacturer Eli Lilly and Company in a Phase 3 trial studying the neutralizing antibody bamlanivimab (LY-CoV555) for the prevention of SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 in residents and staff at long-term care facilities. Bethesda is the only St. Louis-area senior living, care and services organization currently hosting the study. “Bethesda is thrilled to work with Lilly on this important COVID-19 research,” says Kiel Peregrin, Bethesda’s Senior Vice President of Operations. “This devastating virus disproportionately affects the elderly, and we anticipate that some of our residents and staff are motivated to contribute to the greater good of understanding the virus and helping to find possible new treatments.” “COVID-19 has had a devastating impact on nursing home residents, and we’re working as fast as we can to create medicines that might stop the spread of the virus to these vulnerable individuals,” said Daniel Skovronsky, M.D., Ph.D., Eli Lilly’s chief scientific officer and president of Lilly Research Laboratories. Lilly’s study of the antibody drug is experimental. Participation by Bethesda residents or staff is completely voluntary, and the agreement to participate is between the individual and Lilly. Bethesda is providing Lilly with access to the facility premises and the support services needed to successfully carry out the trial. Bamlanivimab is an antibody therapy engineered from one of the first individuals in the U.S. to recover from COVID-19, and is specifically designed to attack SARS -CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Laboratory studies have shown that LY-CoV555 binds
with high affinity to the SARS-CoV-2 virus and neutralizes its ability to infect cells and replicate. Bethesda continues to adhere to strict protocols, following guidance from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and the state and local health departments, to restrict visitation and keep residents and employees healthy and safe.
Serving others Pasta for Packs raises more than $21,000
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Operation Food Search (OFS), a nonprofit hunger relief organization, recently raised $21,465 for its first Pasta for Packs led by James Beard award-winning chef Gerard Craft. Proceeds from the fundraiser will support Operation Backpack, which provides weekend meals to food-insecure kids throughout the school year. Craft virtually guided more than 400 adults and children in preparing a salad and fresh pasta dish with meal kits curated by his Clayton restaurant Pastaria. OFS’s Friends Board, a dynamic group of young professionals vested in ending hunger, created the interactive fundraiser. “Our Friends Board designed this very successful event so that our community could come together virtually,” said OFS’s Executive Director Kristen Wild.
DECEMBER 2020 | OUR TOWN | 5
AroundTown
A holiday tradition Saint Louis Ballet presents ‘Nutcracker Extravaganza’ Tens of thousands of St. Louisans have made Saint Louis Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” their holiday tradition. In the interest of safety, Saint Louis Ballet is bringing this holiday production directly to home screens. Beginning Dec. 12, patrons can stream a new, fullyproduced “Nutcracker Extravaganza” that includes favorite Saint Louis Ballet dancers and scenes from years gone by, combined with newly-produced “Nutcracker” performances from the 2020-2021 dancers, plus behind-the-scenes interviews and “Nutcracker” fun. Guests can also enjoy a fabulous and festive culinary experience including special entrees, character-themed cookies, cupcake kits and more. Plus, a costumed dancer from Saint Louis ballet can make a special delivery. There is also a holiday boutique. “The Nutcracker” story has been represented on screen, in print and in children’s theatre productions, but there is nothing like a grand ballet – with hundreds of colorful costumes, enormous sets and glorious dancing to ring in the holidays with style. Under the direction of Gen Horiuchi, “The Nutcracker” has continued to grow in popularity over the years and attract new audiences to the art form. Horiuchi, a former New York City Ballet principal dancer, performed many principal roles in the NYCB production during his 13 years there under the great George Balanchine. “The Nutcracker” presented by Saint Louis Ballet will take place
PHOTO BY KELLY PRATT COURTESY OF SAINT LOUIS BALLET
Beginning Dec. 12, patrons can stream a new, fully-produced “Nutcracker Extravaganza” that includes favorite Saint Louis Ballet dancers and scenes from years gone by, combined with newly-produced “Nutcracker” performances from the 2020-2021 dancers, plus behind-the-scenes interviews and “Nutcracker” fun.
Dec. 12 at 7 p.m., Dec. 13 at 2 p.m., Dec. 19 at 7 p.m. (dining package offered), Dec. 20 at 2 p.m. (dining package offered) and Dec. 21-23 – streaming all day and every day. Tickets are complimentary, but registration is required. For ticket information, festival meals and the holiday boutique visit www. stlouisballet.org.
Paying it forward Immanuel Lutheran School – Olivette students give back The well-known tradition for eighth graders amongst the students and staff at Immanuel Lutheran School – Olivette (ILS Olivette) is for the eighth graders to finish off their academic year with an educational trip to Chicago. It is eagerly anticipated by the students throughout middle school. However, when COVID-19 hit back in March, it hit especially hard for ILS Olivette’s 2020 eighth grade graduates because it meant the class trip to Chicago that they had been dreaming of would not occur. The class had spent much time over the year raising funds for this trip that could no longer happen so they had to decide how to use their money for something else. This is
a mighty task for disappointed eighth graders. In an unprecedented act of kindness, the eighth graders all voted on giving their well earned $5,996 back to the school community to help the future students and generations. They allocated their funding to the following items: • Enrich classroom libraries with multicultural books: $1,000. • New microphones for musical productions: $1,596. • Contribute funds towards an additional scoreboard in the gym: $1,000. • Financial aid for families in need: $2,400.
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Raising funds
“I chose St. Catherine because everyone is so nice and it feels like home.” - Carla F.
New monthly charity raffle STL 50/50 launches in St. Louis Dec. 1
The coronavirus pandemic has made fundraising difficult for many area organizations. Givable, a St. Louis-based nonprofit focused on creating ways for people to give locally and sustainably, has announced a safe and easy way for charities to raise money with the launch of STL 50/50. F H STL 50/50 is a regional A full service funeral home offering: raffle that will be held every • Traditional & Nontraditional Services month with each raffle ben• Cremation Services efiting a different St. Louis The raffle publicly launches Dec. 1 at STL5050.com benefiting Youth In Need, a • Memorial Services area charity. The raffle nonprofit child and family services agency that is dedicated to building positive • Anatomical Donations publicly launches Dec. 1 futures for the community’s most vulnerable children, teens, and families. G • Prearranged Funeral Plans at STL5050.com benefiting Youth In Need, a non N L B profit child and family services agency that with the Regional Business Council, beS. A, M colliers@colliersfuneralhome.com is dedicated to building positive futures for lieves this has the potential to raise tens of www.colliersfuneralhome.com the community’s most vulnerable children, thousands for local charities. “We have seen well promoted 50/50 teens, and families. Raffle tickets will only be sold digitally and style raffles raise a lot of money in other must be purchased through the STL5050. parts of the country and in Canada, which com website. As with other 50/50 or split- is why making this raffle a regular event in the-pot raffles, STL 50/50 will award the St. Louis will provide an enormous boost to winner of the raffle 50 percent of the gross the bottom lines of charities like Youth in sales, and the remainder will be given to Need,” he said. A new charity will be announced at the the chosen charity of the month. This region-wide fundraising effort is the first of its start of each month that has been vetted kind and will help inject tens of thousands using Givable’s guidelines and approved of dollars into our nonprofit ecosystem to by its board of directors. Prize amount and help solve some of our region’s most press- winning ticket will be announced on the stl5050.com website. Official rules and ing issues. “With traditional fundraising events and regulations can be found at www.stl5050. in-person opportunities no longer fea- com. sible due to Covid-19, we wanted to create a simple and fun way for nonprofits to Get your event raise much needed funds during this time or good news of uncertainty,” said Jared Opsal, Givable Executive Director. Givable’s philosophy is published in to empower individuals, families, and busiCommunity News: nesses to make a difference in their comemail your informamunity by making philanthropy more accessible. “We hear all the time that givers tion in calendar and feel more connected to their community, article formats and we’ve provided a way for more people to to chip in a little to make a big difference.” editor@mycnews. Michael Staenberg, who founded Givcom. able in 2016 alongside Brian Matthews WWW.FOREVERCLEANGUTTER.COM with Cultivation Capital and Kathy Osborn SUBMITTTED PHOTO
COLLIER’S
DECEMBER 2020 | OUR TOWN | 7
AroundTown
Lighting up downtown Winterfest Lights Up Downtown St. Louis and Transforms Kiener Plaza Kiener Plaza in Downtown St. Louis will soon be aglow with festive holiday lights for Gateway Arch Park Foundation’s fifth-annual Winterfest, presented by Bank of America and World Wide Technology. Beginning Nov. 20, Winterfest will transform Kiener Plaza into a magical wonderland that will delight people of all ages as they drive around the park. Winterfest will feature more than 60,000 lights in the trees of Kiener Plaza to complement the iconic backdrop of the Gateway Arch and Old Courthouse in the heart of downtown St. Louis. Winterfest is free to enjoy and will be available every night of the week, from 5 – 9 p.m. In addition to the twinkling lights to make your traditional holiday
drive complete, Winterfest will feature virtual activities throughout the holidays to help bring the cheer of Winterfest home. Visit www. archpark.org/winterfest for upcoming details, online story times, activities, holiday recipes, and more. “Winterfest is going to look a lot different this year, and we think people are really going to love it,” said Ryan McClure, executive director of Gateway Arch Park Foundation. “We are looking forward to bringing the Winterfest Ice Rink back when the time is right, but for now we are pleased to bring some cheer to our community and a free holiday experience in beautiful Downtown St. Louis.” Winterfest will share Kiener Plaza with the Salvation Army Tree of Lights.
Healthy partnership Logan University, St. Louis County Public Health partner for integrated chiropractic care Logan University has announced an agreement with the St. Louis County Department of Public Health to help advance the health of those living in the St. Louis Metropolitan area. Beginning in January 2021, Logan Doctors of Chiropractic will work closely with the center’s team of health care providers to deliver chiropractic care to patients at the county’s John C. Murphy Health Center located at 6121 N. Hanley Road in Berkeley. The partnership is made possible from the expansion of the Gateway to Better Health Program through the leadership of the Regional Health Commission. “The County Department of Public Health and Logan share a mission of providing accessible and affordable health care to St. Louis residents,” said Patrick Battaglia, DC, DACBR, Director of Community Health and Hospital Partnerships and Health Policy. “We look forward to being a vital component of their health care system and making a difference in the lives of the patients we treat.” Logan has a history of providing quality integrated chiro-
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practic care to community-based organizations and currently maintains strong partnerships with Affinia Healthcare, CareSTL Health, and the Mercy JFK clinic. Battaglia said not only do these partnerships permit broader access to chiropractic care for patients, but they also provide an enriching training environment for students interested in integrated health care. “Under the supervision of trained doctors of chiropractic, students apply their knowledge and fine tune their clinical and communication skills while serving the health care needs of the community,” he said. “Furthermore, students rotating through this health center can enhance their educational experience through on-site collaboration with a multitude of health care disciplines.” Additionally, the partnership allows Logan to create an integrated health care residency, under the direct supervision of experienced Logan clinicians, which will begin in January. Emily Doucette, MD MSPH, Chief Medical Officer for the St. Louis County Department of Public Health said the Department of Public Health is thrilled about the opportunity to partner with Logan University and the Regional Health Commission to add chiropractic care and occupational therapy services. “The addition of physician function services will further support our integrated primary care delivery model, providing holistic and person-centered care to improve quality of life, especially for our patients with chronic pain diagnoses,” she said. Attending clinicians overseeing care at these sites include Patrick Battaglia, DC, DACBR, director of health policy and interdisciplinary care; Kelsey Lewis, DC; and Daniel Haun, DC, DACBR, director of resident and fellow education. Additionally, occupational therapist Bernadette Sheffield, MSOT, will provide services that complement chiropractic, such as reducing pain and improving function and quality of life for patients with spinal and musculoskeletal conditions.
NonProfitProfile
2020 holiday festivities at the
National Museum of Transportation The National Museum of Transportation (TNMOT) is proud to announce their 2020 holiday festivities will take place from Nov. 27 to Jan. 3, 2021. At the heart of their holiday activities are the festive model train displays that transform the visitor’s center. Over the years, the museum has amassed an extraordinary collection of model train displays shared by donors including local philanthropist E. Desmond Lee and the flagship downtown Famous-Barr store. Museum staff work for weeks to create dozens of model train displays, celebrating the winter holidays and charming visitors of all ages. This year, a new G-scale miniature train display will be set up outdoors. On weekdays, guests can tour the holiday train displays and enjoy the museum’s world-class exhibits. Each weekend, there will be additional special activities tailored for families and children of all ages. Santa’s Village will take over the plaza outside the Lindberg Automotive Building. This year, Santa Claus will be seated in a classic green truck ready for photographs. Live reindeer will visit campus and carolers from area singing groups will serenade visitors. The historic trolley and Emerson Miniature Train will tour guests around campus. Please note: due to the popularity of these festivities, advance registration is required on peak days. Visit www.TNMOT.org to make reservations today.
TNMOT’s annual holiday festivities became a tradition more than ten years ago with the completion of the Orthwein Education and Visitor Center. Each year their holiday celebrations have grown, drawing more than 15,000 visitors in 2019. With multiple outdoor activities, TNMOT expects a high turnout in 2020 as families look for ways to celebrate the holidays while maintaining social distance and safety. About the museum Founded in 1944, TNMOT operates with a mission to be the leader in protecting and interpreting North American transportation heritage. Located in St. Louis County on a 42-acre campus, TNMOT houses one of the largest and best collections of transportation vehicles in the country. The museum’s collection of rail, air, road, and water vehicles includes more than 190 major exhibit pieces, many of them rare or sole survivors of their type. TNMOT also houses a nationally acclaimed research library of transportation-related documents. TNMOT hosts nearly 200,000 visitors each year. The museum is popular with guests of all ages and favorite destination for many St. Louis area families. Approximately 94 percent of visiting parties include a child under the age of 12. NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019 2020 | | OUR OURTOWN TOWN || 9
A growing tribute
The Holocaust Museum Learning Center has been renamed the St. Louis Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum and has broken ground for a $21 million expansion project BY CHARLOTTE BEARD The Holocaust Museum Learning Center, in existence since 1995, not only officially announced its new name (St. Louis Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum) last month but has broken ground for its $21 million expansion project. A department of the Jewish Federation, the museum is currently located at 12 Millstone Campus Drive in Creve Coeur on the Jewish Community Center Campus in the Kopolow Building. In 2022, the completed construction will sit on the Millstone Campus, near the northwest corner of Lindbergh Boulevard and Schuetz Road, replacing the existing Holocaust Museum. “There is already dirt turning on the site of our future museum!” states Don Hannon, Acting Executive Director for the museum. “As our museum staff works with world10 | OUR TOWN | DECEMBER 2020
famous design firm Gallagher & Associates to design the future museum experience, the building itself will begin to take shape over the next several months. TR,i Architects has been with us since we started this project and AJ Brown Construction just joined the team. We will work with all our partners to ensure our future world-class institution will educate and empower visitors for generations to come.” Gallagher & Associates, firm who recently worked on Soldiers Memorial Military Museum in Downtown St. Louis, is designing the museum’s interior. They are also known for work on the Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum. TR,i will design the exterior of the expanded museum. Their design projects are many, not limited to Kemp Auto Museum, The Hazelwood Learning Center/Administrative
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Building, The Culinary Institute of St. Louis at Hickey College, Bogey Hills Country Club, and The Plaza at Boone’s Crossing Building. The Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum, renamed for holocaust survivors – Gloria Kaplan Feldman, her late husband Rubin Feldman, and her brother David Kaplan – will quadruple in size from the existing 35,000 square foot facility. The $21 million project is being funded by a $750,000 challenge grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities: Exploring the Human Endeavor, in addition to support from Centene, J.E. & L.E. Mabee Foundation, Enterprise, Barnes Jewish Hospital, and the Bellwether Foundation. At the virtual groundbreaking on Nov. 15, Cheryle Atkin, Gloria’s daughter, said how honored the families are to have the museum named for them. “My parents, along with their families, endured years of experiencing the indescribable during the Holocaust as they were hiding out; witnessing torture, hangings, beatings and shootings; fighting illness; enduring starvation; and escaping camps and ghettos,” she stated. “The idea that they would survive, come to the United States to live the American dream, and then have a Holocaust Museum bearing their names could not have even entered their wildest imaginations.” Carol Staenberg, chairperson of the museum’s capital campaign stated, “We’re honored by the support we have received from the many individuals, corSUBMITTED PHOTOS
porations, and foundations. The goal of our institution is to make sure we tell the story of the Holocaust and its lessons. We look forward to maintaining its relevance well into the 21st century so even more Missourians and visitors from all over can study and learn from the brutality of the Holocaust.” The museum hopes to expand its role as a regional destination for people to learn the history of the Holocaust as well as existing related issues. “Our institution has been around for twenty-five years,” stated Hannon, “hosting around 30,000 guests per year, most of whom are students. We have been grateful for the success we have experienced over the past two decades. We have taught thousands of visitors how to use the history and lessons of the Holocaust to reject hatred, promote understanding, and inspire change. Our future institution will increase our reach exponentially. We are quadrupling the size of the museum and equipping it with state-of-the art, accessible technology that will bring the history of the Holocaust to guests in new and exciting ways. A new performance auditorium and high-quality special exhibit space will provide us with expanded educational and engagement opportunities. For the past 25 years, the stories of St. Louis Holocaust Survivors have been central to our museum experience. That will not change – their voices will continue to echo throughout our new world-class institution.” The expanded facility will have its own
entrance facing Lindbergh Boulevard. Visitors will hear directly from Holocaust survivors in video and audio testimonies throughout the museum. In addition, the interactive technology will include environmentally controlled and secure archives and display space for temporary exhibitions from the museum’s collections and other institutions. The museum’s new multipurpose area will provide seating for up to 250 visitors to attend programs and community events. There will also be dedicated space for onsite research for usage by students and scholars. The expanded experience will continue to include the facilities usage of docents. “We’re very grateful to have around 75 docents as part of our museum community,” stated Hannon. “The group is comprised of descendants, academics, students, community members and others passionate about teaching the history and lessons of the Holocaust. As we await our exciting expansion, our docents will be engaging with students and constituents virtually through virtual speaking opportunities and virtual museum tours. We’re very excited to continue bringing the history of the Holocaust to classrooms around the region.” Currently, admission to the museum is free and though administration is still planning the experience for visitors, the goal is to keep admission free for students. For more information and updates on the expansion, visit STLHolocaustMuseum.org.
DECEMBER OCTOBER 2020 | OUR TOWN | 11
OurThoughts
MOORE ON LIFE BY CINDY MOORE
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pine. pie and r. in e k v p o m dma’s be le P: pu -on into gran 020 to ip r 2 T r o is f d is em g hea ristmas liday it smashin hot ho t for Ch d n n s edo on ’ a a r w a e I e v ed spe cur All s. his y in s d T u a n P q . li s e . b s ll le istmas nd me his ga gly Chr gly nted ca reen roundin either is the s ecked out in U e ! c it s a e w th … erg an u …n ta d Forget g lights d it as ding ev lt is not pretty showing San in n e k e te n p li in s b t r fa su ful did no Think o essert. The re lky knit sweate thed in color t Fiona n u hard a d u e A r b e h it w e r g such a hins favo thou on th e lp v s n o a s e d h a v e p y s It ’s a er e, db I’ll also ufactur istmas. ke rounde ll keep that on ow it. n r r a h u s C m l d e r a I’ oa smell li ons. Th called, Tropic ven kn a surfb are totally in. log. I’ll at and didn’t e med body loti is le d t u s n n r y e a f te o a swe so hip perfu o to th experim wering scent r. She’s l pass on the . This year ’s to say n o p g r e in v o o sweate g il ts n scen nd a s. I’m er, I w Howev g up with new candy cane a ireplace ashe , f o in g in m ke n time co f banana, ma ’s been rolled will love it. tly, “ Wa n le io v t o d a a e ing an king m mixture ngle salad th ile. Aunt Fion ne sha u were moan p ju o e g ty n m ti in o if s am e -g g with are. Yo to the r : mornin crazy nightm s a toss it in ’s what I wish tm is Chr ind of ake. So here wake up on en fires some k me aw g g in in v to akes th t all, k a t u a h q h s e th r r ’ is a I wan u no na Yo ee .” ere wer e. And that ’s cked ke up! Aunt Fio up, wa and shrieking nd gasping. . I dreamed th m t s a e ing . W to g da dream nets fly rderous virus treet riots, r ic groanin to bleary-eye o if h r r n o ah were s d demo t kind – a mu I come I said. “I had n there bs were fightcust an rs e o lo h w ” T n , . e e h s a th th o th “ Wo gue of or mon . The m ms and inside f y everywhere ler stor ntity sent a pla il y k ta d s n to a it e ome we had os and calam me evil eam. C d r e o s d s u n d a e c a a e b th b was ch g scente s all a upplies g, there ” ut it wa ottle of Eggno spiced B up on s in “ n . r a u n b d TP. ere elling b said Fio . I adde olls of cities w rrible,” ou a sweet sm ialty fruitcake ay surprise.” e last r te th s r ’ t e v a ot y pec olid g th ing o gifts. I g some of my s ar for a little h p my nap.” oor thin y “ You p s look at your e tr y , re inish u this let ’ And he d just f eedles n t. n a n e s a r e in on now c o p d y chan rm deo in some take m undera r and tossed to g in o g we cauliflo ow, I think I’m n k u o “Y 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 2020
OurThoughts ALWAYS AN ADVENTURE BY AVALANCHE
Building dams …………………………… The brief time when late fall transitions to early winter is a short-lived period of quiet around here. The summer hordes of tourists, this year augmented by COVID refugees, have returned home. The trees have shed their once-colorful leaves, and snow lies in shady patches under trees and behind rocks; the thick snowy carpet blanketing the ground is still a few weeks off. The days are short, cold and damp. Humans tend to our gardens and yards, pulling up harvested plants, blowing out irrigation systems, and putting away summer tools and lawn mowers. The forest is a bit quieter as well. Hunting season is under way, with seemingly fewer visitors than normal this year. The local campgrounds are closed, but still navigable on foot, which make them a great place to walk the dogs before the snow is too deep. On a recent outing, our mutts were quite animated, with their noses twitching and leading them around the closed campsites, clearly on a mission to find the source of an unusual smell. While we couldn’t smell what they were searching for, the telltale signs of gnawedthrough trees and piles of shavings around their remaining trunks told the story. The mystery scent tormenting the dogs, and the signs of a systemic logging operation came from beavers, and busy ones at that. A number of trees had been recently chopped down and drug out into the river, where they had been moved into the current and floated downstream. None of the numerous trees were to be found near where they had been pulled and pushed into the water, but rather about 100 yards downstream, where a new pond had formed. Staci kept the dogs occupied while I went down to the new pond to investigate. There wasn’t just one pond, but a series of three cascading ponds had been created, each held back by a dam constructed of mud, logs, brush and rocks. The uppermost pond was the largest, the two lower ponds were a bit smaller, and a fourth appeared to be possibly under construction below the first three, as there was another
small row of brush building up on some rocks in the stream. A den consisting of a large pile of brush and mud had been built on the river bank adjacent to the main pond; a bit unusual since beavers prefer to have their den out in the middle of water, as it keeps them safe from predators. I didn’t see any beavers working, but they’re typically nocturnal creatures. They’re quite industrious, as this riparian construction site had only been in operation for about a month. None of these trees had been cut down just a few weeks previously when the campground was open, and the stream had been free-flowing. A beaver can chew through a half-inch sapling with one bite, and can fell a 6” aspen tree in about 20 minutes. They seem to prefer aspens and willows for their projects, as there were numerous evergreen trees lining the banks where the dams were, but none had been cut. The aspens had come from much further upstream. An American native, Castor Canadensis had a population of about 100 million
back in the early 1700s, was nearly wiped out by the fur trade in the first half of the 1800s, and has since rebounded to about
15 million nationwide. Not everyone is happy to see them, especially those who have property along a river and find many of their trees and landscaping disappear overnight to the large rodent’s construction projects. In addition to altering the landscape along creeks and rivers, the dams and resulting ponds provide habitat for waterfowl and other semi-aquatic mammals. The ponds also provide good habitat for fish. So, for the next couple of weeks before freeze-up, I know where to take my rod and reel; the ponds will be a great spot to fish. Once the spring runoff arrives, the dams will probably be washed out, making this fishing hole a short-lived seasonal treat for just a few of lucky local anglers. Humans are one more species that get to benefit from the busy beavers’ work ethic.
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.
DECEMBER 2020
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OurLifestyle
2020 Ford Mustang
powers up a classic American car brand Positioned as one of the world’s bestselling sport coupes, Ford Motor Company is advancing the momentum of their Michigan-built, four-passenger, rear-wheel-drive Mustang with more options. This includes; added personalization, user friendly smart new technology and an exciting new color palette to select from for 2020. This is coupled with numerous engine and performance levels to choose from as well. From the entry level Mustang EcoBoost that gets an all new performance package to the ultimate spirited Shelby GT500 with the Carbon Fiber Track Package, Ford is offering enthusiasts nine separate performance variants of its iconic fastback and convertible. And let’s face it, many of us likely owned a Mustang or certainly knew friends or family that drove one as their daily means of transportation. The performance, high-revving 2.3-liter turbo four engine is derived from the legendary Focus RS. It cranks out 330 horsepower and 350 lb.-ft. of torque. This is the most powerful four-cylinder sports car by any American automaker, including its closest competitors, the Chevy Camaro and the Dodge Challenger. This turbo setup package gains functional aero ground effects, suspension upgrades and heavy- duty brake components from the Mustang GT. Factory engineers also included unique performance tuning that impacts throttle control, chassis enhancements and elevated transmission shift tactics. An available high performance handling package adds electro/mechanical dampers, muscular 265/40R Pirelli P summer tires mounted 14 | OUR TOWN | DECEMBER 2020
on wide 19x9.5-inch rims, stiffer sway bars and a “track ready” limited slip rear end differential housing. Additionally, the all-new 2020 Shelby GT500 is at the top of the performance spectrum. It too was developed for both street usage as well as in a competitive setting. With an impressive 760-horsepower supercharged 5.2-liter V8 engine, acceleration is close to being on par with a NASA rocket launch. This setup is matched with a seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmission. Additionally, to slow things down a bit, it gets massive 16.5-inch two-piece brake rotors with six-piston Brembo front brake calipers. Add the Carbon Fiber Track Package with carbon fiber wheels, GT4 track aero wing and custom Ford Performance spec Michelin Pilot Sport tires for the ultimate on track performance. The Shelby GT500 takes the crown as the most powerful street legal Ford ever. The updated colors for ‘20 add to the car’s interest which further enhances Mustang’s rich curb appeal. But getting down to basics, I test drove this coupe with the 2.3-liter Eco-Boost four cylinder engine and sixspeed manual transmission. EPA numbers reflected 21-MPG city/30-MPG highway. Be advised that this set-up is recommended to operate with premium/high octane fuel. Some turbo engines have a bit of a turbo lag with launch; however, that wasn’t the case here. The throttle response was instantaneous. On the other hand, I would have welcomed a tighter shift gate with the gear linkage. T his model had dual exhaust, capless fuel
fill, LED foglamps, automatic on/off head lights, Mustang Pony projection side mirrors, sequential tail lights, intermittent wipers and Ford advanced safety/security amenities. Pushbutton start is included as well as selectable drive modes, rearview camera, digital instrument cluster, dual-zone climate control, leather trimmed seats, split fold forward rear seats, tilt/telescope steering column and power door locks and windows. Backseat accommodations are somewhat tight and the coupes stiff drive characteristics may prove to be a turn off for some. The base bumper-to-bumper warranty is three-years/36,000 miles, the powertrain warranty is for five-years, 60,000 miles. Window sticker pricing reflected $35,850 after $3,000 in additional equipment and $1,095 for shipping charges.
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
New films debuting simultaneously on streaming services and in theaters Although summer traditionally has more than its fair share of blockbuster movies and family-friendly options, the end-of-the-year holidays are equally important on the movie calendar. Last December, for instance, “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker” and “Jumanji: The Next Level” packed theater seats, providing a great return on investment for their respective studios. Thanks to its Christmas Day opening, Greta Gerwig’s “Little Women” crossed the $100 million mark and earned six Academy Award nominations. A year can make one heck of a difference, though, because the entertainment industry currently is shifting gears. Theater chains such as Regal Cinemas shut down the bulk of their locations but kept seven venues in California open. Due to a lack of new films to show moviegoers, Regal finally closed their remaining theaters, including the newly refurbished location in the Irvine Spectrum. Normally, that Regal Cinema would have done a booming business in the weeks to come. Though vaccine news has been highly promising, I am wondering if this is the end of traditional moviegoing, especially when Hollywood studios have been changing their operating models. The Walt Disney Company has pulled the promising comedy “Free Guy” from its scheduled Dec. 11 release. In that film, Ryan Reynolds plays Guy, a video game character who learns that his game will be shut down forever. As of this writing, Guy’s fate, like that of many theaters, is up in the air. A few months ago, Disney also caused a stir when it released the live-action version of “Mulan” on the Disney+ streaming platform for $30. That was in addition to their monthly $6.95 subscription fee. The studio even made a large investment in a recorded version
of the stage play “Hamilton” but released it on Disney+ at no additional charge. “Soul,” the latest Pixar offering, also will show up on the streaming service on Christmas Day. Warner Bros. has one of the most highly anticipated movies of the year in Patty Jenkins’ “Wonder Woman 1984.” The sequel to the popular 2017 adventure shows Diana Prince (Gal Gadot) facing a new villain known as the Cheetah (Kristen Wiig) and discovering that her lost love Steve Trevor is alive, well and still youthful in 1984. This film’s release date was shuffled more than a deck of cards until Warner Bros. decided to release it simultaneously on their HBO Max platform and in theaters on Christmas Day. Back in April, Universal Studios released “Trolls World Tour” as a Premium Video-on-Demand title instead of having a theatrical release. At the time, that seemed like a scandalous idea but seven months later, more studios are embracing the idea of digital releases with or without a theatrical release. Will this become the “new normal” for the movie industry? Only time will tell, but the fact that prolific writer Stephen King still loves going to the movies gives me some hope. 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. DECEMBER 2020
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OurLifestyle
Popping up festive holiday fun During a holiday season that may not quite feel the same for many families, you can add a magic touch to at-home festivities with activities and treats that get everyone involved. Creating decorative holiday sweets allows little ones and grown-ups alike to take part in the fun, and the end result is delicious desserts for all to enjoy. Start with a main ingredient like wholegrain, freshly popped popcorn. At 30 calories a cup, it’s naturally low in fat, non-GMO and gluten-free for a nutritious alternative to traditional holiday indulgences. It’s a clever way to create artsy representations of the season at hand that celebrate festive flavors like peppermint, coconut, chocolate and other sweet eats. For example, Coconut Popcorn Snowballs add fun and flavor to wintertime with a coat of sweetened coconut “snow” and candy cane handle while easy-to-construct Holiday Popcorn Snowmen are sure to be a hit with your children. Add to the holiday spirit throughout your home with wintery Jingle Balls that call for colored sugars to create a magical sparkling effect then take the creativity to the next level by encouraging kids to make their own red-nosed, sleigh-pulling team of Chocolate Popcorn Reindeer. Discover more decorative dessert recipes at popcorn.org.
Coconut Popcorn Snowballs Yield: 8 balls (4 inches) Ingredients: 2 cups shredded or flaked sweetened coconut nonstick cooking spray 3 quarts popped popcorn 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter or margarine 3 cups miniature marshmallows 1 teaspoon coconut or vanilla extract 8 candy canes or candy cane sticks (about 3-4 inches)
16 | OUR TOWN | DECEMBER 2020
Directions: Place large sheet wax or parchment paper over work surface. Spread coconut on paper.
Spray large mixing bowl lightly with nonstick cooking spray and place popcorn inside. In medium saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Stir in marshmallows until melted and mixture is smooth. Pour over popcorn and mix well until coated. Spray hands with cooking spray and press mixture firmly to form into balls. Place balls on coconut; roll and press coconut to coat. While holding popcorn balls, gently press candy cane into each ball. Serve immediately or wrap individually in plastic wrap for storage.
OurLifestyle Jingle Balls Yield: 12 cups
Chocolate Popcorn Reindeer Servings: 8
Ingredients: 8 cups unsalted, unbuttered, popped popcorn 2 1/2 cups mini marshmallows 1/2 cup chopped dark chocolate or dark chocolate chips
2
tablespoons butter or light olive oil 1/4 teaspoon salt 16 pretzel sticks 16 eyeball candies 8 red candy-coated chocolate candies
Ingredients: Nonstick cooking spray 12 cups popped popcorn 6 tablespoons butter or margarine 3 cups mini marshmallows
Directions: Place popcorn in large mixing bowl.
In saucepan over medium heat, heat marshmallows, chocolate, butter and salt, stirring often, until smooth. Toss marshmallow mixture with popcorn until well combined. Scoop 3/4 cup popcorn mixture into ball. Repeat with remaining mixture to make eight balls. Place each ball in paper muffin cup liner. Insert one pretzel stick on each side of ball to resemble antlers, attach two eyeball candies for “eyes” and one red chocolate candy for “nose.” Repeat with remaining balls. Let cool completely.
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract assorted colored sugars
Directions: Spray large mixing bowl lightly with nonstick cooking spray. Add popcorn.
Spread plastic wrap on cookie sheet; set aside. In medium saucepan, melt butter and marshmallows; stir until mixture is smooth. Stir in peppermint extract. Pour over popcorn, mixing until well coated. Let cool 2 minutes. Spray hands with nonstick cooking spray and form popcorn mixture into 3-inch balls. Gently press colored sugar onto balls. Let sit on prepared cookie sheet until cool and set.
Holiday Popcorn Snowmen Yield: 5 snowmen Ingredients: 1 package (1 pound) large marshmallows 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter or margarine, plus additional for greasing hands 1 teaspoon vanilla
10 cups popped popcorn sprinkles (optional) licorice (optional) gum drops (optional) cinnamon candies (optional)
Directions: In large saucepan, melt marshmallows and 1/4 cup butter. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla. Let stand 5 minutes.
Pour marshmallow mixture over popcorn and stir. Butter hands well and form into balls. Decorate with sprinkles, licorice, gum drops and cinnamon candies, if desired.
DECEMBER 2020
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InDepth
giving back
to the homeless
The nonprofit BACK@YOU makes and distributes backpacks specially designed for people living on the streets BY CHARLOTTE BEARD Homelessness has not taken a backseat to COVID-19 and neither has the efforts of the organization BACK@YOU. In St. Louis, it may have appeared most common to see distributions of backpacks filled with school supplies to children; however, since 2014 BACK@YOU has been distributing backpacks specialA recipient of a backpack from BACK@YOU, a nonprofit that distributes backpacks specially designed for ly designed for people living on the streets. people living on the streets. “We just finished out distribution for 2020,” stated Kathy Acre, Founder and President. “Since we could and 10- hour hand and body warmers, hygiene bags, snack not risk the health of our volunteers or our homeless guests, my husband and I stuffed all of the backpacks in our bags, and of course a scarf handmade with love. We (would) basement over the course of three weeks and then had our then have our nonprofits and winter outreach groups pick up 300 (backpacks) for distribution throughout the winter. The next partners pick them up at various days and times.” This year the nonprofit worked with the following partners day, we would have about 100 volunteers at one event location to get the backpacks distributed to the homeless: Mission STL distribute 200 backpacks. There (would be) a process where the Volunteers, St. Louis Winter Outreach, Calvary M. B. Church, volunteers take our guests and help them pick out a backpack Harbor Community Church, Jefferson Rescue Mission, Places according to the scarf they like. They then take them to a long for People, Restoration House STL, Reach Church, Missouri Net- row of tables with new folded hoodies, separated by size and work for Opiate Reform and Recovery, AmeriCorps St. Louis color (just like at the Gap) where they choose one they like.” In addition to Acre’s passion partially driven by a previous caand Youth In Need. Prior to this year, in addition to partners, volunteers would include adults, families, and teenagers. Acre reer, she shares what inspires her to keep BACK@YOU going. “Knowing that those who are experiencing homelessness are shared that she kept 15 backpacks to personally hand out so often treated without the dignity or respect to which everythroughout this winter. “(Normally) we use volunteers two days out of the year, one one is entitled, fuels my need to make sure they feel seen and weekend,” stated Acre of past years. “On a Saturday at the heard,” stated Acre. “Our backpacks supply them with essenend of October we have 35-45 volunteers who help us fill over tials that make life a little easier on the streets in the winter, 500 backpacks with thermal socks, a knit hat, ski gloves, knit and the handmade scarf that is in every backpack shows them gloves, water bottle, t-shirt, flashlight, notepads and pen, 18- that someone (genuinely) cares. We receive handmade scarves 18 | OUR TOWN | DECEMBER 2020
InDepth
SUBMITTED PHOTOS
from all over the country and they show warmth, both figuratively and literally to our homeless neighbors.” Acre’s idea began small when she was donating gloves and socks for the men at a homeless shelter where she volunteered prior to the birth of the nonprofit. She noticed many homeless people carrying their few possessions in plastic bags while those who had backpacks treasured and stuffed them. She was inspired to purchase 20 backpacks. In addition to the previous handout of gloves and socks, she decided to begin personally crocheting scarves to add to her giving to include in the backpacks. After she began telling people about her project, the contents of the backpacks expanded to fleece throws, snacks, bags of personal-hygiene items, antibacterial wipes and personal packets of tissue. After giving out the backpacks with three other volunteers before Thanksgiving in 2014 at The Bridge Outreach - St. Louis, and witnessing the great response from the initiative, BACK@YOU became registered as a public charity in 2015. According to Acre, the nonprofit started working with other organizations in 2016. Over the years she volunteered with shelters and had come to know various nonprofits and groups that were doing work with “those who were unhoused in and around the greater St. Louis area.” She states the need has become so great that BACK@YOU has had to turn down many requests from organizations. “For 18 years, I was a property manager for five Section 8 Apartments (over 300 units) throughout St. Louis County,” shared Acre. “I started as the receptionist and within two years was promoted to assistant manager and then manager. I was a struggling single mother at the time and knew how close I had come to being homeless. As I worked with young mothers, those who were disabled, and those who were elderly, I discovered I had a true passion for helping those who were underserved and in need of housing.” Though BACK@YOU only distributes its backpacks during the latter months of the year, Acre states the organization works all year to raise money to purchase the backpacks designed by Chicago nonprofit The Citypak Project. Fundraising and donations also cover purchase of the bags’ contents. “BACK@YOU helps those who are in need on the streets until they are able to get into permanent housing,” states Acre. “We give kindness and hope. We also teach the community to treat those experiencing homelessness with kindness and dignity and not to judge. Hopefully, next year we will be able to go back to using our volunteers and meeting our guests, one on one.” For more information or to donate to the initiative visit: https:// backatyou.org/. (Top) A recipient of a backpack from BACK@YOU, a nonprofit that distributes backpacks specially designed for people living on the streets. (Middle) BACK@YOU founder Kathy Acre stands with a representative from Restoration House STL (Bottom) A group of backpacks put together by BACK@YOU before being distributed to members of the homeless community in St. Louis. DECEMBER 2020
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December 6
St. Nicholas Day
7
Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day
11
Hanukkah (first day)
13
National Guard Birthday
15
Bill of Rights Day
17
Wright Brothers Day
21
First Day of Winter
24
Christmas Eve
25
Christmas Day
31
New Year’s Eve