Over the Top for Tots “Fall into the Holidays” 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Friday, November 7, 2014
The Columns in St. Charles
Shopping begins at 10:00 a.m.; Lunch served at 12 Noon Individual Ticket-$50; Table of 10 Friends-$450
Honoring
John and Keri Crocker, Club Fitness Healing Hearts Award
Jeff and Raegan Parrish, Quintessential Dining and Nightlife Children's Champion Award
Cuivre River Electric Cooperative Guardian Angel Award
Sponsored by
Bancorp South ▪ Carrie's Boutique ▪ Coventry Health Care, An Aetna Company Kelly Services ▪ Quintessential Dining and Nightlife ▪ Shea O'Toole ▪ Toyota (Bodine) ▪ SSM Health Care—St. Joseph Health Center, St. Joseph Hospital West & St. Joseph Health Center-Wentzville For more information on sponsorships, call Bonnie Define, Community Relations Director at 636-940-0748 or email bonnie@crisisnurserykids.org.
Thank You on behalf of the 3,000+ St. Charles County children cared for at the Crisis Nursery!
Table of Contents
Department Pages
10
6. PUBLISHERS NOTE 11. FOR THE LOVE OF WINE 14. EAT
ST. LOUIS
18. FRIENDSHIP BREWING COMPANY 22. BUSINESSSCAPE
14
30. JAY
LENO
38. TENTH LIFE CAT RESCUE 48. ST. LOUIS NATIONAL CHARITY HORSE SHOW 52. LIFE IN PARTS: LORETTA GOEBEL 58. GET READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL 64. ASK THE EXPERT: APRIL’S ON MAIN 72. ST. CHUX DERBY CHIX (SC/DC)
30
80. THE WAYWARD CRITIC 84. RIVER CITY ROBOTS 88. STRANGE
DONUT
Cover image credits: Jay Leno
88 4 StreetScape Magazine
Photo Coutresy: NBC Studios Layout Design: Grace Pettit
NOW OPEN Drive Thru • Indoor & Outdoor Seating Free Wi-fi • Open 7 Days •Catering
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Any Medium or Large Smoothie
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920 South Fifth St. St. Charles • 636-724-5464 September | October 2014
5
Publishers Note NEWS FROM THE PUBLISHER TOM HANNEGAN I hope this finds you well at the end of an amazing summer! Hopefully, you were in attendance for our incredible fashion event, AQUATICA which supported Unlimited Play. Some of the evening is captured on page 96 and on our video recap on our website. Because we are committed to our service to our readers, community and advertisers, StreetScape has embarked on a 1 year, 3 year and 5 year business growth strategies. It is our desire to serve all of you with excellence. Readers, please share with us your opinions and feedback. Please find information about our Reader Survey on page 52. We appreciate your input and time, everyone that submits the survey will be entered into a drawing for a $50 VISA gift card. Community, our annual business leaders awards gala, “Beyond the Best� on October 23rd. A portion of ticket sales will be given as a scholarship to one lucky Lindenwood student! More information is on page 97.
At the time of press, we are eagerly anticipating our 8th year celebration that will be held at Ballpark Village. Local artist, Zack Smithey creating a painting of an iconic Cardinal player to be auctioned off to benefit Cardinal Care.
Advertisers, as always, we are committed in our level of excellence and professionalism and we are thrilled to announce that the StreetScape team has decided to contract with a third party auditor. This is a nationally recognized company, Circulation Council. We want all of our current, future, local and national advertising partners to be confident that we are holding ourselves to the highest standards of fulfilling our promises to you. Look for the Circulation Council verification logo. We know that you will enjoy our feature about Jay Leno! Look for Willie Nelson and Amy Grant on our very special November/December issue! Thank you for all of your support! I look forward to hearing from you!
Sincerely,
Thomas P. Hannegan
6 StreetScape Magazine
AUDIT PENDING
ANDREWS ACADEMY LAKE ST LOUIS 636-561-7709 | www.andrewsacademy.com
Grades K-6
September | October 2014
7
1. Tom Hannegan Publisher & Founder Tom@StreetScapeMag.com 2. Robin Seaton Jefferson Senior Correspondent
BEHIND THE SCENES
3. Judy Peters Director of Sales (636) 448.2074 Judy@StreetScapeMag.com 4. Mary Ellen Renaud PR Director | Marketing | Event Planner (314) 660.1975 Renaud7207@CenturyTel.net
8 StreetScape Magazine
7. Jeanne Strickland Advertising | Marketing | Special Events (314) 605.7193 Jeanne@StreetScapeMag.com 8. Tiffany Smith Executive Assistant to Publisher (636) 696.6369 Tiffany@StreetScapeMag.com 9. Jackie Vick Account Manager (636) 875.6833 Jackie@StreetScapeMag.com 10. Tamara Tungate Style Consultant
5. Michael Schlueter Contributing Photographer (314) 580.7105 SchlueterPhoto.com
Grace.StreetScapeMag@gmail.com
6. Lance Tilford Contributing Photographer lancetilfordphotography.com Lance@LTphoto.us
12. Jamie Walsh Sales Account Manager 636-634-0288 Jamie@streetscapemag.com
11. Grace Pettit Creative Director
Retire on your terms. Since 1894, Ameriprise Financial has worked for our clients’ futures, helping millions of Americans retire on their terms. Doing what they want. When they want. Let’s talk about how you can begin to put a confident retirement more within reach, call me today at 636.405.5007. Volume 11, Issue 3 September | October 2014 TPH Media 223 North Main Street, St. Charles, Missouri 63301 (636) 448-2074 Fax 1 (866) 231-6159 www.StreetScapeMagazine.com Judy@StreetScapeMag.com Any reproduction of StreetScape magazine or its contents requires publishers written consent. StreetScape magazine aims to ensure that information is accurate and correct at all times but cannot accept responsibility for mistakes. StreetScape magazine reserves the right to refuse an advertisement and assumes no responsibility for submitted materials. Unsolicited material must include a selfaddressed stamped envelope. © 2013 TPH Media. All rights reserved.
Michael Haverstick, CRPC® Financial Advisor Beaudoin, Haverstick & Associates A financial advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. 300 First Executive Avenue, Suite D St. Peters, MO 63376 william.m.haverstick@ampf.com ameripriseadvisors.com/william.m.haverstick CA Insurance #0741072
Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2014 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.
CVO_64938_5109371_Michael Haverstick.indd 1
7/10/14 3:57
THE FOX THEATRE • OCTOBER 21 - NOVEMBER 2 314-534-1111 or MetroTix.com September | October 2014
9
HAPPY HOUR
The tastiest local food and drinks!
Little Hills
Cottleville Wine Seller
636.946.9339 www.LittleHillsWinery.com 501 S Main St | Saint Charles
636.244.4453 www.CottlevilleWineSeller.com 5314 State Hwy N | Saint Charles
With over 20 years producing award-winning wines, Little Hills now ranks among the largest wineries in Missouri. Stop by and relax in the main dining area or upstairs in the loft, and savor the moment by tasting awardwinning Little Hills Wines, produced from French hybrid and native wine grapes, all grown in Missouri.
Cottleville Wine Seller is the best patio, event and entertainment venue around! We offer wines from all over the world and a large selection of domestic/micro brews. Our full menu offers salads, wraps, sandwiches and appetizers. The perfect outdoor atmosphere to enjoy good times with friends! Live entertainment Friday, Saturday and Sundays.
The Rack House 636.244.0574 www.RackHouse.WestWinery.com 5056 State Hwy N | CottleVille, MO The RackHouse West Winery is partnering with Chris and Jen West of West Winery to provide 14 different varietals of Missouri wines from sweet whites to dry reds. The winery is also featuring a savory menu of appetizers, paninis, salads and flatbreads. The RackHouse West Winery also has an extensive list of premium Whiskey, Bourbon and Scotch as well as bottled beer. Come hang out in the vintage, ventilated cigar lounge or enjoy a nice day on the spacious patio. The RackHouse West Winery has a private banquet room available for rent that seats 40 to accommodate your bridal shower, birthday party or just a night out with friends!
Ultimate Hawaiian Volcano 1/2 oz. Southern Comfort 1/2 oz. Amaretto 1/2 oz. Vodka 1/2 oz. Grenadine Syrup 1 oz. Orange Juice 1 oz. Pineapple Juice Mix together and pour into a tall glass filled with ice, garnish with lemon and lime wedges and enjoy!
10 StreetScape Magazine
Spicy Meatballs paired with Rombauer Zinfandel
For the Love of
e n i W
Story by Susan Mangels, PhD Photos by Michael Schlueter
ONE OF MY first wine instructors at Napa Valley’s Culinary Institute of America would remind us that “the best way to learn nothing about wine is to always drink the same wine.” I agree. There is much to be gained by being daring, trying something new. After all, the investment in a glass of wine is minimal and likely to be enjoyable!
Owners Jackie Miller and Ashley Morrison met a decade ago working in the restaurant business. They always talked about opening their own place; and in November 2013, Bella Vino opened its doors. Bella Vino has some great wines that pair well with food and are easy drinking. In selecting the wine collection, Miller noted, “I aim to have something for everyone and wines from many regions. For instance, if you like a riesling, we September | October 2014
Sampling of menu items and wines at Bella Vino
Restaurants like Bella Vino, located on Main Street in historic downtown St. Charles, encourage this sort of exploration. At Bella Vino, the small plates and seasonal menus offer guests a chance to try new things and revisit old favorites. The varied wines available by the glass also encourage diners to try more than one. “Wine Wednesdays” offer bottles at half price. And the bistro’s casual lux makes you want to lean back and chat while you enjoy your wine of choice.
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Owners of Bella Vino Ashley Morrison (L) and Jackie Miller (R)
have some sweet, as well as more dry blends, that can lead diners across a spectrum of flavors.” Pairing food and wine needn’t be a mystery. One of the easiest ways to create pairs is to put like flavors together. For instance, citrus with a citrusy Pinot Gris, or pair mineral flavors of shellfish with a lean Sauvignon Blanc. Bella Vino offers great pairing for Indian summer with its Leitz Out Riesling and Grapefruit Shrimp Salad. This wine is a rather dry riesling with crisp fruit flavors that compliments the grapefruit in the salad. A new wine from Italy’s Veneto region is a must try. It is no big, bold, heavily-oaked California Chardonnay. Rather the un-oaked Scaia Chardonnay makes a food-friendly, fabulous pairing with the Chicken and Spinach Pesto Flat Bread. The herbal notes in the wine complement those in the pesto, and the mango echo in the wine adds some zest to each bite.
Grapefruit & Shrimp Salad paired with Leitz Out Reisling
A bottle of wine contains five glasses, so if three or more friends are dining, a bottle is often an economical (and delicious) choice. Bella Vino’s California Rombauer Zinfandel is worth the investment. Red Zinfandel wines tend to provide the full taste of the grape but without the structure that, say, a Cabernet would have. This can make Zin “easier” to drink with some foods. Bold, spicy, with flavors of dark berries and vanilla, the Rombauer Zin is a great match for the restaurant’s Spicy Meatballs and even its Cajun Pan Seared Tilapia. Rock and roll in your mouth. As we go to press, our region’s harvest is peaking. What better time to try some Rosé wines. My preferences are fruity, but dry. However, if you do want a bit of sweetness, try a glass of Julia’s Dazzle from Washington state. Don’t forget that dessert, too, can be paired with wine. A good rule of thumb is for the wine to be sweeter than the dessert. That’s why fresh fruit desserts pair well with dessert wines and ports. At Bella Vino, La Romanica, a sparkling Brachetto red wine from the Piedmont region of Italy, is a sweet wine that is terrific. It is less sugary than a Moscato and can even appeal at dessert time to red wine lovers. It is perfect with the restaurant’s acclaimed seasonal fruit cobblers. Bella Vino also has a wine flight program to help those of us exploring new options. Their flights have whimsical names like “sassy white blends” and “Bella’s bold bombshell.” The first and third Thursdays of the month are Tapas Tasting Thursdays and are also good times to try a variety of dishes and three wines. I would
Blueberry Cobbler paired with La Romantica Red
The Dining area at Bella Vino 12 StreetScape Magazine
The Dining area at Bella Vino Chicken & Spinach Pesto paired with Scaia Chardonnay wine
The Dining area at Bella Vino recommend checking them out if you want to expand your wine familiarity. Bella Vino also serves lunch and brunch. Both can be good times to pair a glass of wine with your meal. Try, perhaps, a lighter wine like an Argentinian Torrontes or a Beaujolais Nouveau. After all, it’s 4 p.m. somewhere in the world, right? ¤ Susan Mangles, Phd September | October 2014
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EAT St. Louis tour walking into Gioia’s Deli
DID YOU KNOW that the recipe for provel cheese was developed in St. Louis? Or that provel cheese is made in Wisconsin specifically for the St. Louis area? Did you know hot salami was commissioned by Charlie Gioia in 1918 on The Hill and that his special recipe is still made in the same pot today—a pot whose handles have been soldered on numerous times? Ever wonder why there are so many shotgun houses on The Hill? Pete Manzo has some interesting facts to share and some amazing food to sample on his new “Taste of the Hill” Food Tasting and Cultural Walking Tour. He calls it EAT Saint Louis; and visitors, as well as the locals, are eating it up. Manzo, whose own family immigrated from Sicily, said he has always been involved in food. His grandfather opened a grocery store in South St. Louis some 60 years ago. “Food has always been my thing,” he admitted. “I figured this would be a good thing for me to do after we closed the store in 2013.” He said he got the idea from taking food tours in Chicago. “I loved it so much I had to do it here.” But Manzo didn’t go into it lightly. He spent months researching the food, culture and history of The Hill. He read everything he could get his hands on. But the best information came from his interviews with the people who live there.
Eat St. Louis
Move over food trucks; pedestrian foodie crossing Story by Robin Seaton Jefferson Photos by Michael Schlueter
14 StreetScape Magazine
Patrons will taste food from six different eateries along the three-hour walking tour. But they’ll also be schooled in some fascinating and long-forgotten Hill history, from its beginnings, to the people who started it. “The main focus is on food and learning about food and what makes it special. The little extra is learning about The Hill, the clay miners and the architecture,” Manzo said. Manzo believes St. Louisans are fortunate in the wide variety of restaurant choices they have. “The food is the best part. We are so lucky to have places that still make their own food by hand. I made an effort to select vendors who do artisan food by hand from the sauces to the salami to pizzas.”
There’s a lot going on in this little bottle, with flavors of Asian pear, raspberry, elderflower and lemongrass on the nose, followed by lime zest on the palate and a sparkling finish. Serve Chilled • Sulfite Free
September | October 2014
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St. Louis style pizza at Adrianna’s
Manzo takes pride in his own heritage. He carries dual citizenship. He was born in America, but went to the trouble of tracing his bloodline to prove to the Italian government his lineage so that he could also hold citizenship in Italy. He said his dream would be to do food tours in Tuscany. He is already in the process of compiling a list of potential places to start up his tours next. “We
Pete Manzo explains the history of St. Louis style pizza at Adrianna’s
Inside Volpi’s Salumeria
Hot Salami sandwich at Gioia’s Deli
Enjoying a Hot Salami sandwich from Gioia’s Deli in Louis Berra Park
Inside Gioia’s Deli
A walking touring of the “Hill” neighborhood
16 StreetScape Magazine
Assortment of fine meats at Volpi’s Salumeria
Fine meat samples at Volpi’s Salumeria
Toasted Ravioli at Mama Toscano’s
Pete Manzo pours the Peroni beer at Milo’s Bocce Garden
have a lot of St. Louis neighborhoods and great places to eat.”
Gelato at Gelato Di Riso
The best way to learn about a place is through its food, Manzo claims. “Food is the footprint of the community. Everybody says, ‘I know The Hill,’ but they have only scratched the surface. I guarantee you you don’t know the wonderful and rich history The Hill has to offer. That’s what I provide.” Group tours, as well as private tours, are offered. For more information, Tour group enjoying Gelato on visit www.EATsaintlouis.com. ¤ the patio of Gelato Di Riso September | October 2014
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SOMETIMES YOU WANT to go where everybody knows your name. The familiar theme song from the 1980s television sitcom “Cheers” comes to mind when partners Brian Nolan and Dan Belcher describe their plans for a new craft beer brewery in the old downtown section of Wentzville. They’re calling it Friendship Brewing Company, aptly named for the relationship the two have shared for over 30 years. They met in college and have been best friends ever since. The friends decided, rather than build a new building or open up in a strip mall, they would take advantage of the history surrounding them in Nolan’s home town of Wentzville. So they’re pouring their hearts and souls into renovating a 1914 ice factory located at 100 Pitman Avenue. In the 1960s, the building was used as an ice, milk and ice cream distribution facility. Later a sign maker took over. “And we were thrilled to discover there was beer sold here in the 1930s and 1940s,” Nolan said. At some point, the building became a sort of dumping ground for the family that owned it. Renovation on the building is expected to take at least until next spring. Nolan explained that when they purchased it in January, the building was “so full of stuff, it looked like an episode of ‘Hoarders.’” With the help of friends and family, including Nolan’s father and his stepfather, Nolan and Belcher filled four large dumpsters and four trailer loads with what they removed from the nearly 3,600-square-foot building. “I also sold some things and gave some things away,” Nolan said. Owners Dan Belcher (left) & Brian Nolan (right)
Friendship Brewing Co.
Three legs of a barstool: making craft beer
Story by Robin Seaton Jefferson Photos by Michael Schlueter
18 StreetScape Magazine
Not everything made it out, though. Nolan saved a few things for use in his new craft brewery. Though the building on Pitman is currently in disrepair, he knows exactly what it will look like when it’s finished. “I’ve got it all in here,” he said, pointing at his head. “This will be a brew pub. We will make beer here, and we very much hope people will choose to sit here and drink it.” An L-shaped bar, at least 30 feet in total,
September | October 2014
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with seating for a minimum of 15 people, will sit in the middle of the brewery. The brewery will be decorated with authentic antiques. Nolan plans to build the bar with glass blocks he harvested from a local school gymnasium. Antique doors will make the bar top. An outdoor patio and seating area will be added to the west side of the property. “We are already planning a multitude of events and festivals, several charity partnership events, and collaborations with other local brewers,” Nolan said. Striving also to minimize their carbon footprint, the friends are in many ways recycling their own building. Much of the material utilized in the renovation is being reclaimed/recycled, including some of the HVAC system, lighting, lumber, appliances, and even components of the brewing system. “We are building most of our tables out of lumber from our family farm and some lumber reclaimed from recent river floods,” Nolan said. “Metal from the old roof will be utilized in a variety of ways, and our old trucks continue to be part of our workforce.”
Nolan has already been in contact with a few restaurateurs who may partner with them to provide food for Friendship Brewery. But even that will center around craft beer. “We want our beer integrated into the food,” Nolan said. “We want it all to flow together. It would be fun for a creative chef to integrate our beers into soups, sauces and marinades or to use our spent grains for making flour.” The friendship concept will be melded into everything about the brewery, Nolan added. “We’re going to do all the work here ourselves, with help from some friends and family,” he said.
Owners Dan Belcher (Front L) & Brian Nolan (Front R) & their Brewskateers Team
Parts of the walls that housed the ice in years past are still covered in a layer of cork nearly a foot thick, the method of insulation at the time. “She isn’t pretty, but there was something about an old factory built of oak, skinned with cork, and oozing rustic history that sounded like a fun challenge,” Nolan said. Friendship Brewery will be involved in Wentzville’s yearly Wabash Days festival, as they’re located right next to where the festivities all take place. As Belcher is a four-time world sandsculpting champion, he is already planning a sandcastle sculpting event, along with BBQ events, beer dinners, and events catered to specific groups. Since the building is 100 this year, the friends hope to throw a centennial “beerthday party,” although they may have to settle for a 101st birthday party, instead. Friendship will serve as a brew pub, a brewery and tasting room, and not a bar, Nolan said, adding that he’s been to 386 of the 2,000 craft breweries in the country; and there is a difference.
20 StreetScape Magazine
“There will be local wine and our beers. There won’t be any liquor. We are beercentric. We’re a beer destination. We don’t intend to be a bar. There is very much a difference in the craft beer industry.”
unselfish with their advice.”
“It’s kind of like the three legs of a barstool.” Nolan explained that the first leg represents his and Belcher’s friendship. The second leg is the encouragement, strength and support they draw on from friends and family. “The third leg is the friendship with guys who are already in the craft beer industry in operations and owners of other local breweries who are very
The son of a home brewing father, in a home just a few blocks from an operating brewery, Nolan said he is more interested in quality than quantity. “I would rather drink two or three really good beers than drink with the intention to get inebriated. We like to savor good beers. We are more learned about ingredients. When you know beer, you’re a lot more selective.” “We don’t sell buckets of craft beer,” Belcher said. “It’s about enjoying them one at a time.” And that’s what the partners are looking to create, they say --- a place where friends can go to enjoy a high quality beer and hear what each other has to say. “We want the ambiance of the place to be to converse, to talk, to
interact, to gather and relax, and not to have to scream over the music to hear each other.” Nolan spent a summer in London as a teenager in an apartment with a pub on the ground floor. He sampled beer and ales all over the U.K. and Ireland that summer, he said. Later, in a college town typically overflowing with corporate light lagers, he and Belcher began brewing their own beer in search of body and flavor. A sixth generation St. Louisan, Belcher has brewing in his blood. Two of his grandfathers ran a family tavern, while another was a laborer at a large local brewery.
Owners Dan , Brian & their Brewskateers team with the Friendship Brewing Bus
Nolan and Belcher also want to be good neighbors. They’re using their savings to renovate the place. “We hope to be debt-free when we open. What we put out is what comes back to us,” Nolan said. “Friends and family count. We try to be good guys in the process. There’s no pretense here, just some old friends trying to build a dream.” And it sounds like it’s catching on. Nolan said he has already had several inquiries from about a dozen bars and restaurants that want their beers. In addition, groups are already beginning to inquire about their brewery as a destination for their events. Friendship Brewing Company will offer at least 25 rotating taps, with at least five house beers available all of the time, plus local, regional, national and international guest taps, as well. Friendship Brewing Company will focus on traditional beer styles, seasonal offerings, and creative collaborations. “We already have some brews barrel aging,” Nolan said. A varying selection of craft beer in bottles will also be available. For more information, visit www.friendshipbrewingcompany.com. ¤ September | October 2014
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BusinessScape Bringing the best & brightest business ventures to your street
Everyday Counts, Dr. Curtis Cain
Dr. Curtis Cain, Wentzville Superintendent
Story by Robin Seaton Jefferson Photos by Michael Schlueter AFTER A YEAR LEADING THE FASTEST growing school district in the state, Dr. Curtis Cain says he can’t think of anywhere he’d rather be.
Nevertheless, he said he plans on keeping pace with it all. “We might think we have a lot of time with them. But K through 12 is 13 years. That’s all the time we have to get it right,” he warned. “Not only every year counts, every day counts.”
“Our challenge is to keep up with student growth and, even more And he wants the memories of those days to last. “I want these kids importantly, student performance,” the Wentzville School District superintendent said. “To do both is almost unheard of.” to sit in those lecture halls at college and realize, ‘That’s what it was all for.’” 22 StreetScape Magazine
Cain said he spent a lot of his first year with principals and students to study the culture and needs of the Wentzville School District. “Assessments are important, but we want to graduate good folks. Students see me everywhere. I cannot, and will not, lead this district behind that desk.” And leading a district that covers ninety square miles is not always easy. “For example, when we have snow days, I’m not making those decisions in my slippers. I’m out at 3 a.m. driving around. There is a great deal of geographical diversity in a district that covers 90 square miles, from gravel roads to Wentzville Parkway.” The largest part of his decision-making, he explained, is based on one factor, however. “What is best for the students should always be on our minds. I don’t think of the one child in the district. I think of all 14,000 kids.” Cain shared that he’s thankful for the reception he’s gotten from the Wentzville community. He related a story of his first flat tire he got not long after he moved to the area. Two citizens and three police officers stopped to see if he was alright.
the helm of the district. Only two were announced in each of the previous two years. “We could have up to 5,000 more students in the next 10 years,” he estimates. “If this happens, we will be in the top ten districts in the state in terms of size.”
classrooms, security upgrades throughout the district, and science and FACS classroom updates at Wentzville Middle School. The remaining 17 cents would be applied to the district’s current debt. The district has built nine schools in the past 15 years and continues to pay In 2000, the Wentzville School District had back the principal and interest on these 6,000 students. This month, some 14,000 loans. kids will enter its buildings. “In the last 14 years, we have built two high schools and Cain said he doesn’t take lightly the trust one middle school,” Cain said. parents put in him, and he will listen if they ever have anything to say. Cain is hoping district voters will pass Proposition E, which the Wentzville “As important as book sense is, it’s all for naught if you don’t have common sense. School District Board of Education has God gave me two ears and one mouth in voted to place on the November 4 ballot. that proportion. It’s a sacred trust that It’s a proposed 35-cent tax levy increase to accommodate the continued enrollment you can’t ever forget about or violate. It’s really an unspoken but sacred trust for growth of the district and make payments on existing debt. Eighteen cents of the levy any parent giving their kindergartner over would generate approximately $40 million to a teacher. It’s powerful.” for the purpose of building a new Cain and his wife Tori have two children, elementary school, adding up to 24 classrooms to existing elementary schools, Kailey, 10, and Kaden, 2. Tori is an assistant principal in the Parkway School and completing phase II of Liberty High District. Kailey is a student in the School. These funds would also pay for Wentzville School district. ¤ equipment and furniture for the new
“You can’t put a price point on what that sense of community means. For the new guy, it screams something without saying a word.” Cain comes from Shawnee Mission School District in Overland Park, Kan. where he served as the associate superintendent for Educational Services. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in social science education from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, and a master’s degree, as well as a Ph.D., in educational administration from Iowa State University. Dr. Cain served as the program manager of the School Improvement Model Center at Iowa State University from 2000–2002. He moved on to become the director of curriculum and professional development in the Park Hill School District for six years before accepting the position at Shawnee Mission in 2008. Cain said 16 planned subdivisions have been announced in the year he’s been at September | October 2014
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BusinessScape
7 Beliefs of Successful Sales People Story by Howard Goldstein, Sandler Training
1.) Selling is not only about delivering quality products and services. And, it’s not simply about solving clients’ problems, or providing them with pathways for accomplishments. Successful salespeople view client and customer interactions not as “transactions,” but rather, as relationships based on performance and reputation. They recognize that delivering what prospects expect is not enough. Successful salespeople make it a point to deliver more than what is expected.
2.) “New” isn’t always better. And, the “tried, tested, and proven” isn’t always the most appropriate. Successful salespeople aren’t afraid to “shake things up” now and then. They are always on the lookout for ways to improve effectiveness and efficiency--for themselves and their clients. More importantly, they put their clients first. If they can provide the same service for a lower fee, or provide a greater service for the same fee, they do so… without hesitation. They understand the beneficial long-term impact of putting the customer first.
come and go. New products and services are introduced. Customer demands change. Economic, political, and geopolitical conditions influence buying patterns. Successful salespeople invest the time and effort to keep abreast of developments affecting their industry, their marketplace, and the needs of their customers & prospects. And then, they take action to preserve, protect, and enhance existing relationships, and capitalize on emerging opportunities.
4.) Intentions do not equal results. Successful salespeople know that once the deal is “sealed,” it’s time to perform. And that means taking action- doing whatever it takes to deliver that which was promised. There may be hurdles to clear and detours around which to navigate, but there must never be excuses for lack of performance. 5.) A scarcity mentality breeds scarcity. And, an attitude of abundance leads to opportunities…even during times of change and uncertainty.
Successful salespeople recognize that there are plenty of opportunities to go around. They don’t cling to an 3.) The marketplace is always changing. Competitors opportunity of dubious value for fear that there won’t be
another to replace it. Neither do they make unreasonable compromises to close an opportunity because of the same fear.
6.) Rewards are the byproducts of contribution. Successful salespeople understand that to receive more, they must give more…not only to their customers and their colleagues, but to their family, friends, and community. When they give more, opportunities appear. 7.) You cannot achieve success in a vacuum. Successful salespeople realize that achieving high levels of success requires joining forces with other people who will not only hold them accountable for their intentions and actions, but also help them identify and develop new opportunities.
Sandler Training provides training solutions and consulting for small- to medium-sized businesses as well as corporate training for Fortune 1000 companies. We will work with you to identify the training solution that best suits you or your organization. Sandler has more than three decades of experience helping professionals like you grow and businesses like yours succeed. We have both the reputation and the results to prove it! If you’re looking to move up to the next level then learn more about our various training solutions at www.rubicon.sandler.com.
How to Beat Business Failure Rates Story by Danette Kohrs
I
find it extremely interesting that 80% of entrepreneurial businesses fail within five years while franchised businesses enjoy an 80% success rate. What makes one business fail while another not only succeeds, but is often highly profitable?
grow their companies consistently, predictably, and profitably. Our proprietary process identifies 8 critical business functions that drive – and sustain – business growth and it provides a step-by-step process that, when fully implemented, generates exponential results.
The secret? Systematize everything. Franchised business models enjoy an inverse success rate to their independent counterparts because they have a system-in-a-box; a system proven to work. The franchisee leapfrogs a decade, or two, of the trial-and-error independent businesses must endure as they figure out how to make the different functions within their business work -- and work well.
At the heart of our system is our Growth Formula, comprised of the 4 business functions that drive growth; Fulfill – Develop-Convert-Attract. The key is to implement – and NEVER deviate from – this formula. Unfortunately, most businesses get it completely wrong; seriously compromising long-term revenues and profits.
If you would like a diagram of our proprietary Growth Engine Formula, please Over the years, I invested in two systematized business models. Both email trinity@trinitymarketing.com with “Growth Formula – SS914” in the allowed me to open my doors and instantly generate revenues that would subject line. have never been possible had I launched independently. I learned, firsthand, the power of systems within the success of operations -- and the leverage-ability -- of a business. Systems allow you to delegate and they allow you to manage by metrics -- both instrumental to long-term, sustainable growth. Systems allow scale-ability and ultimately, saleability. They are beyond critical; they are essential. Trinity Strategic Growth Solutions Business Growth & Development Specialists Understanding the power of systems, we developed a systematized (636) 373-9005 x705 dkohrs@trinitymarketing.com business growth development program to teach business leaders how to http://www.linkedin.com/in/danettekohrs 24 StreetScape Magazine
Send resume to: USSTP-Careers@Alpla.com
September | October 2014
25
BusinessScape
Harold Hogarth, founder
Deborah Alessi
Some Gave All Local foundation gives kids of fallen heros a chance at a college education Story by Robin Seaton Jefferson Photos by Michael Schlueter Nobody seems to remember who said, “All gave some. Some gave all.” But there are many who deeply understand its meaning, to be sure. Harold Hogarth is making sure no one forgets. A veteran of the United States Air Force, Hogarth is giving his all to make sure the children of those who died on the battlefield get the start in life they may have gotten had their fathers or mothers come home. A bomb expert in Vietnam in 1972 and 1973, Hogarth knew
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soldiers who didn’t come back. But it was a television commercial that got him thinking about what should be done for their kids. He said it was a little girl helping her dad on a Wounded Warrior commercial that got him thinking about the kids. “It really got to me, seeing that little child helping her dad. It kind of popped into my head, ‘What if the dad’s not there?’” Hogarth said.
So the local entrepreneur got busy researching what happens to the children of a soldier killed in combat, the kids he calls “Gold Star Kids.” “I wanted to know what happens from the time the chaplain comes to the front door and tells the wife [or husband] that his [or her] spouse is dead,” Hogarth said. He found out that only 25 percent of Gold Star Kids ever set foot in college. “And an even lower percentage make it through,” he said. Hogarth said the family of a fallen soldier gets about $400,000. Many of the wives have been stay-at-home moms, traveling around the country and, perhaps, the world, taking care of children. This often prevents them from gaining marketable skills. In this scenario, the money does not go far. “I started looking at what could be done to make their lives a little better,” he said. What he came up with could change the lives of kids from newborns to 22 years of age for many years to come. Hogarth founded the Gold Star College for Kids Foundation last year. Since then, he has received the needed 501c3 non-profit designation for the foundation, formed a board of directors, and worked with area colleges. Lindenwood University in St. Charles has already stepped up with an offer of cooperation and scholarship opportunities, Hogarth said. He also trademarked the term “Gold Star Kids.” The U.S. Army has officially recognized the gold star as a symbol of loss since 1918. Throughout WWI, families would hang blue service stars in their windows to indicate that their loved ones were serving in the war effort. By 1918, it became common practice to pin a gold star over the blue star to indicate that their service member had died. Also that year, President Woodrow Wilson authorized mothers to wear a gold star on the traditional black mourning band to signify their loss was war-related. Congress standardized and developed a system for service flags during the Second World War. In 1945, the Gold Star Wives of America incorporated with the assistance of First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt. Shortly thereafter, Congress approved the design, manufacture, and distribution of the Gold Star Label Pin to be presented to surviving family members of those who died in the WWII conflict.
Service flags and Gold Star pins fell out of favor in the sixties. But the rise of patriotism after September 11 brought about a resurgence of the use of both the blue and gold stars in flags, bumper and window stickers, and lapel pins. Hogarth hopes the Gold Star College For Kids Foundation will do more than pay college expenses for surviving children of soldiers lost on the battlefield. He wants the foundation to reach out to children within the Gold Star population who may have emotional problems from their loss that might hamper their progress in life. So the foundation is also corroborating with counseling centers that will work with Gold Star kids to help the children before they get to college. “We do our best to intervene as quickly as possible with these children,” Hogarth said. “We do not just offer scholarships. We are a support structure to help these children throughout their young lives. They will know, through our acts, that we care about them, feel for the loss they have endured, and will go above and beyond to help give them a life their fallen parent would be proud of.” Hogarth said over 10,000 children have lost a parent to combat over the last 25 years. “Studies from the Department of Labor show that less than 25 percent of these children will even attend college due to the catastrophic emotional loss they have to endure and the circle of poverty they could face,” he said, adding that he wants to reach out to all children of soldiers killed in battle. “Why? Because they deserve it from us.” Gold Star College For Kids Foundation will seek out kids through local and national print and broadcast media, as well as social media. “We anticipate providing hundreds of scholarships per year,” Hogarth said. Coordinating directly with the financial aid departments of schools, the foundation will bridge the gap between the total cost of education, including books, room and board, and tuition, not exceeding $25,000 per year, Hogarth said. Long-time host of the popular television game show Wheel of Fortune, Pat Sajak
has already stepped up financially to help the foundation. Sajak, a former soldier in the U.S. Army, was a disc jockey on Armed Forces Radio in Vietnam in 1968. Some of the first kids Hogarth hopes to help are three kids from St. Charles County whose father died a few years ago in Afghanistan. Their mother died six months later. Hogarth has assembled a respectable board of directors, including Ben Blanton, business owner and Lindenwood University board member; Deborah Alessi, local attorney and adoptive parent; Michael Becker, attorney; Mark Ratterman, business entrepreneur and business owner; R.L. Hulett, business owner; Tim Klutsarits, KMOV News executive director; John Hammond, business owner and Lindenwood University board member; Tom Dempsey, Missouri senator; Dee Bax, business owner; and Jim Probstein, business owner. “We provide opportunity, invest in the future of this country, give comfort and support to the children and young adults, and help them recognize and harness their full potential,” Hogarth said. “We believe it is the responsibility of the community to help these Gold Star Kids and guide them toward a brighter future. It is the least we can do for the children of our most brave.” ¤
Do you have a business story that needs to be told? StreetScape wants to spotlight you, your employees or any special awards/recognitions and promotions achieved this year. Send us your BusinessScape spotlight to Judy@StreetScapeMag.com and your spotlight may be published.
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BusinessScape
Business Blog: Business tips from the Lion’s den ECONOMIC POLICIES typically have two types of effects: those that are seen and those that are unseen or difficult to observe. However, policies are often decided upon on the basis of their seen effects only, so they can end up worsening the problem they were intended to address. This point, which applies across a wide range of policies, can be illustrated with a policy that is particularly prominent in Missouri. Each year, the state of Missouri hands out tens of millions of dollars in development tax credits under a variety of programs. These programs are touted by their supporters as being key to the state’s economy because they are alleged to lead to the creation of jobs. The logic behind this claim is simple: Step one, tax credits are provided to a firm that promises to build a factory; step two, the factory is built; and step three, the factory employs some people. Ergo, the tax credits created more jobs. The problem with this logic is that it takes into account only the effects that are easily seen (taxpayer money is followed by jobs at the new factory), while ignoring the effects that are unseen (the many, often small effects that ripple through the rest of the economy). There can be enough of small, unseen effects to cancel out some or all of the seen effects.
Story by Dr. Howard J. Wall
For example, in our tax credit scenario just described, where do the workers come from to fill the jobs at the new factory? It’s very likely that many of the workers were already
employed elsewhere in Missouri, so the new jobs do not represent a net increase in employment, only a reshuffling. And what will happen to the firms that the workers came from? Perhaps they won’t be able to compete for workers any longer and, as a result, may shut down or move out of state. It should also be noted that it is possible the factory in our example would have been built even if the firm had not been awarded the tax credits. It’s certainly conceivable that the factory owners simply claimed that they needed the tax credits; but in fact, they had already made the decision to go ahead with the project before going to the state seeking financial support. In this case, the tax credits would simply be a handout of taxpayer money without any wider effects. This possibility is something that can’t be seen directly, but is nevertheless an important factor in assessing the effect of the programs. Independent research that tries to account for the unseen effects of tax credits and similar programs tends to show that the tax credits do not lead to net increases in employment. In fact, in a study published recently in the Missouri Policy Journal, it was found that tax credits awarded under the Missouri Quality Jobs Program, one of the largest programs of its kind in the state, were actually associated with net reductions in employment. Although not all economic policies have the large and unseen negative effects typical of tax credit programs, you can be assured that these effects are present for every policy. An acknowledgment of this fact might go a long way in preventing us from embracing policies that look good at first glance, but which might have unseen and unpredictable consequences. ¤
Congratulations Founder and Publisher of StreetScape Magazine Tom Hannegan
for being selected to Focus St. Louis
INDIVIDUALS SELECTED FOR THE 2014 – 2015 LEADERSHIP ST. LOUIS CLASS: Irene Agustin Executive Director The Bridge Bart Andrews Vice President of Clinical Operations Behavioral Health Response Krista Bauer Senior Director, Talent Management & Executive Compensation Ameren Tricia Beal Chief of Staff Novus International, Inc. Jeannine Beck Executive Director Maplewood Chamber of Commerce Gregory Bedell Managing Director Huron Consulting Group Benjamin Beinfeld Business Development Manager World Wide Technology Wesley Bell Program Coordinator/ Professor Criminal Justice and Legal Studies St. Louis Community College Florissant Valley Cherie Stephens Bock Partner Thompson Coburn LLP Emily Brasel Director, Employee Comm. and Chief of Staff for Sr. VP Chief Human Resources Officer BJC Healthcare
Jeff Burgess President Commerce Brokerage Services Inc. Jason Busch Deputy Director for Curatorial Affairs and Museum Programs St. Louis Art Museum
Marie Elliott Community Relations Manager Missouri Department of Transportation
Brandon Haynes Director of Community Engagement Deaconess Foundation Melissa Hopkins Assistant Vice Chancellor and Assistant Dean, Facilities Management Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine
Linda Martin Vice President, Tissue and Support Services Mid-America Transplant Services
Annette C. Morris Director and Head of Diversity and Inclusion Nestlé Purina Petcare Company Robert Endicott Gina Moshiri Partner Dedric Carter General Counsel Abigail Israel Bryan Cave LLP Professor, Washington Director of EEO/Affirma- Object Computing, University in St. Louis Inc. tive Action Robert Faulkner Robert Muschany Emerson Electric Attorney Patrick Clarkin Vice President, Stinson Leonard Street Amanda Itoku Broker Development and LLP Charles L. Crane Marketing Community Volunteer Agency Youth In Need Keith Jacob Amy Fields President/CEO Chief Human Leslie Corey Shula Neuman St. Louis Staffing Resources Officer Community Volunteer Editor Amerinet St. Louis Public Radio Dwayne T. James Hal Davies Senior Inside Sales VP of Finance and Chief Arik Frankel Catina O'Leary Coordinator Senior Brand Manager Jacobs Engineering Financial Officer President & CEO Nestlé Purina Petcare Donald Danforth Plant Health Literacy MisGroup, Inc. Company Science Center souri Raymond Lai Paula Gaertner Sarah Davis Brittany Packnett Deputy Director of Executive Director Attorney Economic & Community Executive Director Thomas Dunn Husch Blackwell Teach For America Development Learning Center St. Louis City of University City Everett Dietle Tina Garrison Director of Marketing Tujuania Reese Jill Larsen Vice President of Opand Communications Counsel, Legal SerBusiness Leader, Sr. erations Missouri History Muvices Vice President SSM DePaul Health seum Ascension Health Wells Fargo Advisors Center Katherine Dockery Tracy Ring Cynthia Lerick Thomas Hannegan Executive Director Attorney, President & Executive Open Space Council for Publisher/Founder Greensfelder, Hemker Director Streetscape Magazine Cultural Festivals the St. Louis Region & Gale, P.C. Jill Dorries Director of Government and Industry Relations and Outreach Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis Jeffery Eisenberg Director of Real Estate/ Owner Jeff Eisenberg & Associates
Cara Ramsey Elsas Senior Vice President & Partner FleishmanHillard
Linda F. Harris Division Operating Officer - St. Clair County Division Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis, Inc. Michael Hart Vice President, Treasury and Risk Management Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.
David Levenson Principal Edward Jones Wayne R. Luster Acting Battalion Chief St. Louis Fire Department
Rick Ruderer Founder Ornaments for Officers Kimberly Simmons Assistant Vice President, St. Louis College of Pharmacy
Thomas Mackowiak Assistant Vice President - Business Management Michael Sorth Enterprise Holdings, Inc. Executive Director Gateway Greening
Mary Danforth Stillman Founder and President Hawthorn Leadership School for Girls Michelle Stuckey Business Development Officer St. Louis Economic Development Partnership Karen TaylorLiggins Owner and Executive Director Higher Level Coaching and Mediation Lynn Ann Vogel Partner Vogel Law Ofiice Michael-John Voss Managing Attorney, Director of Finance, CoFounder ArchCity Defenders, Inc. Marc Warr Sixth Grade Teacher City Academy Linda Wendling Senior Group Manager Program Management CitiMortgage Matthew White Vice President and Chief Development Officer Ranken Jordan Pediatric Bridge Hospital Marjorie Williams Executive Director MindsEye Napoleon Williams, III Director of Advocacy and Outreach Connections to Success Nancy Wolfe Chief of Staff to the President & COO Monsanto Company
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JAY
LENO Story by Robin Seaton Jefferson Photos Courtesy of NBCUniversal
Media critic, Ed Martin, probably described him best. He called Jay Leno “a fabulously wealthy everyman who never stopped being a regular guy.”
Benjamin Netanyahu and former Soviet Union President Mikhail Gorbachev, Leno said he really just enjoys meeting real people. (Barack Obama’s appearance on “The Tonight Show” marked the first television talk show appearance by a sitting president). “People who change the world are fascinating,” he said, but so are everyday people.
Leno said one of the reasons he loves his cars is that they make him appreciate how easy his day job (or night job, as the case may be) is. “Working with your hands makes you come to appreciate how easy it is to make money in show business,” he said. It’s part of the philosophy he holds when seeking out additions to his famed car and motorcycle And though he’s had dinner with every president collection. He said an unnamed celebrity asked since Gerald Ford, as well as Israeli Prime Minister him what kind of sports car he should get.
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“He said, ‘I don’t want to get a Ferrari. Everyone has a Ferrari.’ I said, ‘Are you kidding me? Most people have never seen a Ferrari.’” Leno said he doesn’t have a favorite car or motorcycle in his collection nor does he really search for any particular ones. “If I had a favorite, I wouldn’t have all these cars. It doesn’t work that way. I really tend to buy the story.” It was the story behind the 1951 Hudson Hornet that he was actually buying when he purchased the car from a 93-year-old woman. He said he already had one. But this one had been sitting in this lady’s garage for years. She told him stories of how she and her late husband had driven the car from New Jersey to California on vacations. She shared photographs with him of those trips. “I loved the story,” he said. But what he loved even more was that when he took the car to show her after he finished restoring it, the woman had her hair done to see him.
Jay said his mother later told him stories of living with an aunt in Scotland. “She told me, ‘There were so many male relatives.’ I said, ‘Mom, I think you were living in a brothel in Scotland.’ My mother was mortified.” Leno stated he wanted to take his mother back to Scotland in the early 1980s, but she was scared to go. When he finally pried it out of her, he realized she was afraid to apply for a passport because she had gotten one of the questions wrong so many years before on her citizenship test, and husband Angelo had gotten angry with the judge. She was afraid they would remember Angelo’s behavior and her mistake on the test from so many years ago and somehow void her citizenship. “She was afraid to get a passport. She was shaking like a leaf.”
His mother did have some good ideas, however. He claims it was because of her that he got his degree in speech therapy, so he would have “something to fall back on” Leno was born James Douglas Muir if the whole comedy thing didn’t work out. Leno in New Rochelle, New York, on “I was a little dyslexic, so anything I could April 28, 1950, to father Angelo Leno, do an oral report on, I was all about it. I an insurance salesman, and mother Cath- knew people who would literally shake with erine Leno, a homemaker. He had one fear and vomit about public speaking, but it brother, Patrick Leno, now deceased, was always something that was really easy who was a Vietnam Veteran and worked for me.” as an attorney. Catherine had come to America alone at the age of 11. Jay said he always had a penchant for telling jokes. Even as a student in grade “There were too many kids in the school, he displayed a love for making family. They had to give one away. people laugh. He mentioned that his fifthThere were six kids and the grandfather. grade teacher’s report card comments said The grandmother had run away with an- it all. They read, “If Jay spent as much time other man,” Jay explained. “There was a bathtub in the middle of the floor.”
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studying as he does trying to be a comedian, he’d be a big star.” And it was a high school guidance counselor who finally convinced Catherine that her son was not cut out for education. “Mr. Simon asked my mom, ‘Did you ever think of taking Jay out of school?’ Education is not for everyone.” Jay’s early jobs included a few car dealerships and McDonald’s. But he somehow even managed to get his comedy act in at the hamburger giant. “There was a talent show for all the stores in New England,” he said. “I won a trip to the Bahamas and a camera.” At 19, Jay was working as a stand-up comedian. He moved from his hometown of Andover, Massachusetts, to Los Angeles to write for television. In the early days, he wrote jokes for Jimmy Walker on the 1970s sitcom “Good Times.” Jay made his first appearance on “The Tonight Show” in 1977 and started guest hosting 10 years later. He took over the post when Johnny Carson retired from the show in 1992 after a 30-year run. In 2009, after 17 years and an Emmy, Jay handed “The Tonight Show” reigns to Conan O’Brien and stepped down. But just a few months later, NBC brought him back. Leno has now passed the baton over to Jimmy Fallon after 22 years as host of “The Tonight Show.” He asserts that this time it will probably stick, although he was never really ready to retire. “Would I have quit? No. But every host left ‘The Tonight Show’ when they were number one. No one leaves it when they’re second or third.” Jay said the decision to pick Fallon as his replacement was “not my call, not up to me,” though he says choosing the “Saturday Night
Declining to comment on his political leanings, Jay alleged it always gets him into trouble. On the president, he said, “I’ve It’s no secret that retirement is nothing of the decided no one who seeks that ofkind for Jay. He is best known for being one fice is evil. I have a respect for the office. Every time I call myself a of the busiest performers in comedy, even republican, a dubbed by his peers as the “hardest working man in show business.” For years he booked republican does something that more than 300 appearances every year. Things is greedy and stupid. And every haven’t changed much since he stepped down time I call myself a democrat, a earlier this year as television’s late-night king. democrat does something that is greedy and stupid. It’s like me “I’m not a relaxing kind of guy,” he said, add- growing up in a little town in ing that he took a trip to Hawaii recently with New England. Show business and politics are far away from his wife of 34 years, Mavis Nicholson Leno. reality.” He has been known He explained they left on a Friday. As he to say, “Politics is just show sat on the beach the next morning, he looked down at his watch and thought it was broken. business for ugly people.” After inquiring of another vacationer, he realized that it really was 10:15 Aside from his comedic prowess on stage, Jay is faa.m. and that his watch was working fine. mous for the voices behind some of kids’ favorite ani“I couldn’t believe I had only been sitting mated characters. Though there for 15 minutes,” he said. “I got on a he doesn’t have a favorite plane and went back to work.” character, he simply loves the job. Jay said he has a regular column in “Popular Mechanics” and writes for “Motormouth” and “The Sunday Times,” as well as several other “I love those things,” he said. “Anything I can magazines on occasion. “The Washington do that I don’t have to Post” reports that in the few months since he “retired,” Jay has been named the latest recipi- comb my hair or put makeup on for is great. ent of the “Mark Twain Prize for American I could do voices all day long.” He has Humor” for his multiple decades in comedy. voiced Nickelodeon’s recurring super hero, He has made numerous standup appearances “The Crimson Chin,” on “The Fairly Odd around the country; raced a million dollar Jaguar car through Italy; hosted Parents.” He also voiced “Vorb” in “We’re Back! A Dinosaur’s Story,” “Bedrock’s Most the Genesis Prize ceremony in Wanted Host” in “The Flintstones,” “Jay Jerusalem that honored former New York Limo” in “Cars,” “Fast Tony” in “Ice Age: mayor Michael Bloomberg, where he made jokes about President Obama and John Kerry; The Meltdown,” and “Jack O’Lantern” in and protested the Sultan of Brunei, who owns “Scooby Doo and the Goblin King.” the Beverly Hills Hotel and came under fire Jay said there really isn’t any secret to his for enforcing harsh Sharia laws, including success. “Always work harder than the other stoning people. guy, and you’ll get ahead. I try to live my life on the premise that things are privileges, Taking up more of his time of late are the not rights.” approximately 900 vehicles he owns, including classic cars and motorcycles. They’re stored in his Big Dog Garage, which And always be grateful. “At every point of my life, I have always been happy being occupies two large hangers at the Burbank exactly where I am. Everything after that is airport. He has a website called “Jay Leno’s pretty much gravy.” Garage,” which details highlights of his collection. A YouTube short, turned weekly tele- Being frugal and humble doesn’t hurt either. vision program on NBC, highlights the garage Jay related a story about the Carnegie Deli and its contents, which is staffed by a team of in New York. He said in the leaner days, he mechanical wizards who can fix or restore just always got the hamburger, because it was $1.10; and the roast beef was $5.95. about anything. Live” veteran was okay by him. “Jimmy’s a respectful kid. He would have been my choice.”
“I always said, one day I’m going to get that sandwich.” He and his wife returned to that deli about 10 years ago, and the roast beef had gone up to $16.95. “I wouldn’t pay it,” he said. Jay will be performing to a sold out crowd at 8 p.m. at the J. Scheidegger Center for the Arts at Lindenwood University September 12, 2014. Sponsored by World Wide Technology, Inc. and presented by KSDK Newschannel 5. ¤
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Fresh picks from local boutiques.
SHOP ‘TIL YOU DROP
636. 947.6330 www.FinishingTouchesbyCharlotte.com 825 S. Main Street | Saint Charles
Finishing Touches at 825 S. Main St. is excited to carry the Fall line of Mermaid’s Cove accessories from Spartina 449, including handbags, clutch purses, wallets and scarves in lots of beautiful patterns and colors. Come see all of our Spartina 449 fashions, inspired by the natural beauty and rich history of South Carolina’s Daufuskie Island.
Finishing Touches 636.410.0625 www.MossBoutique.com 424 S. Main Street | Saint Charles If you are looking for that perfect outfit, or a last minute gift that is sure to be a hit, then MOss is the place for you. The former Fashion Designer/ Boutique owner is always on the hunt to find something fresh and exciting for her customers. The knowledgeable and friendly staff is always there to help with styling an outfit, or choosing a gift. *MOss is an authorized retailer for the popular Alex & Ani and Lenny & Eva jewelry brands. * Custom Embroidery also available. New arrivals updated at Facebook.com/ mossboutique
MOss Boutique
636.947.7740 www.StringAlongWithMe.net 625 S. Main Street | Saint Charles
String Along With Me
Tucked away in the lower level of the Newbill-McElhiney House at 625 S. Main St. is an exciting boutique fill of accessories for Every woman¹s wardrobe. The friendly, helpful fashion advisors are ready to Assist you in choosing the perfect styles to suit your outfit, colors or personality. The store is enhanced with new designs daily, including a large selection of Brighton accessories. Wedding and formal jewelry is offered in a special Bridal section. Repairs and custom designed jewelry performed right in the store. Open 7 days a week.
636.724.0132 www.ThrosandMichelles.com 229 N. Main Street | Saint Charles Thro’s and Michelle’s is a family owned clothing store located on Historic Main Street. Thro’s specializes in men’s tailored clothing and fashionable casual work and weekend attire. Michelle’s features fashionable ladies apparel, dresses, formal attire and accessories. After 116 years…the styles may change, but their commitment to service remains the same. You won’t find more customized service anywhere! They also do tailoring on-site.
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Thro’s and Michelle’s Clothing Company
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fine by them.
Dynamite Duo
They met at Immanuel Lutheran Church in St. Charles, during a very difficult time for Babs. Her youngest child was having seizures and needed to have cranial vault reconstruction surgery. “Steve just started helping with the grass and the dishes --- everything. I asked the church to pray for me. And he showed up. Then he just came to the hospital when I needed him.” “We really just started helping each other,” Steve said. “I was previously divorced, and she was going through a divorce and just needed help.” Four years later, when they decided to get married, there were nine people involved in the proposal. “Everybody got a wedding ring,” Steve described. “We all got down in a circle on the floor. We said, ‘We want to ask this family to marry this family.’” “We said, ‘We want your blessing,’” Babs added. Steve (left) and Babs (right) Hall
The Hall Duo
And that’s where the couple says their faith came in. In the beginning, like in many divorces, the children were angry. They didn’t want to be shuffled back and forth.
But Steve affirmed the couple’s faith soon brought cohesiveness to the family that may not ever have existed otherwise. “The biggest thing with us was our faith,” Steve Story by Robin Seaton Jefferson Photos by Michael Schlueter said. “We were faithful going to worship and keeping our kids involved in parochial UPON ENTERING Master’sPieces Fine Jewelry & Gifts, just to the right of the front school, servant events, and missions around door, hangs an old rugged cross covered with hundreds of tiny pewter crosses. Oddly the country. We showed a strong front, a strong family and stability.” And it worked. enough, it fits right in with the atmosphere of the shop. Owned by jeweler Babs Hall, the little shop is filled with her creations and beckons visitors to ask the meaning of the Today the Halls are very close, and all the children are “their” children. crosses and the title of the shop. The cross was made from the 100-year-old floorboards from Babs and Steve Hall’s first building at 902 South Main Street before they moved their shop to 816. Each person who visits Master’sPieces goes out with one of the tiny crosses. The crosses and the name of the shop have special meaning to the Halls. “It means we belong to Jesus,” Steve explained. “We are his pieces.” Just past the counter that Babs occupies as she fashions her jewelry, in an office down the hall where he works as a financial advisor, sits her husband of 10 years. It would seem the two can’t get enough of each other, as they live, work and play together. It was a long time coming together, they say, so every moment is precious. Steve and Babs combined their families a decade ago after their first marriages ended in divorce. Seven children and one grandchild now make up their family, and that’s
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Babs was born and raised in Oates, Iowa, a tiny town consisting mostly of her own family. “There are about 250 people, one church and two stop signs,” she said. Her mother was a librarian, and her father was a lead miner. It was said that her father could sense metal. “Wherever he figured to drill, they were always successful. They tracked it. His tests were always good,” she stated proudly. Babs went on to obtain an art degree, with an emphasis in metal smelting and metallurgy. But she said she had a knack from the
beginning for “sparkly stuff.” She was just eight years old when a local man gave her a box of stones for cleaning his house. “I took them home and got out the encyclopedia. They were sapphires, and tourmaline, and tiger’s eyes. I was hooked,” Babs remembered. “I made stuff out of them and gave them away as gifts. That’s when I figured out if I want this, I can afford to have the things I love. I can make them.” And she’s been making jewelry ever since. As a child, Babs made rings from lightening bugs and other jewelry using fresh water snail shells from the creek by her house. “My cousins made bracelets. I made tiaras,” she quipped. “I liked being outside. It was magical.” Ironically, perhaps, the most beautiful piece of jewelry she’s ever owned, or had a hand in making, also came from the Earth, but not a creek near her house --- although it did take some digging. Just before her third anniversary, Babs was working at another local jewelry store when a woman called to inquire about a stone her son had found while playing in her front yard. As it turned out, the 8-year-old, using a stick while digging around his family’s mailbox, had unearthed a 2.72 carat, single diamond. Unaware of the actual value of the stone or that it was genuine, the woman let her son take it around with him to school and church and out to play.
“I just have a passion for helping people. Everything we have is a gift from God. It’s just figuring out how to use those gifts,” he said. Steve admits being involved with their children has made all the difference in combining two families. “Whatever was available for us to be with our kids, we do that. If we didn’t want that, we wouldn’t have kids.” Steve and Babs shared that having hobbies they can enjoy together and alone has made their relationship better. Steve is an avid runner and has coached middle school track and volleyball at Immanuel Lutheran. Babs collects nineteenth and early twentieth century dolls and makes dolls out of paper clay. She can sculpt the faces of the dolls to look like whoever the clients want to replicate. Babs declared if she thought her life was magical digging for snail shells in the creek bed, it’s perfect now. “I’m doing what I love, and I get to do it with who I love.” Visit Master’sPieces Fine Jewelry & Gifts at 816 S Main St, St Charles. Call for hours at 636.925.1333 or visit their website www.Masterspiecesonmain.com. ¤
The store Babs was working for took the diamond in on consignment. As an employee, Babs had to wait a certain amount of time before she could purchase the diamond. When that time was up, she and Steve purchased the stone. As luck would have it, a friend of Babs purchased the ring Babs had originally gotten from Steve—a 2.52 carat ring (the B-52s is Babs’ favorite band). Needless to say, the young boy is going to college on the proceeds of his find. A financial advisor with Thrivent Financial, a Christian organization, Steve expressed he has a passion for working with families. Always highly involved with his children, their school and activities, it’s something he knows.
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A Home For the Homeless
Protecting Our Feline Friends
Story by Judy Peters Photos by Mandi Kohlmeier TENTH LIFE CAT RESCUE saves stray cats and kittens in the St. Louis area, prioritizing those with special needs. Injuries, medical problems, or chronic conditions can often be prohibitively expensive for other organizations to handle. That’s where Tenth Life comes in. They believe that every cat, regardless of emotional or physical limitations, deserves the chance at a fulfilling and happy life. If a veterinarian determines that a cat is in a state of incurable suffering, Tenth Life relieves them of their pain through gentle and humane euthanasia, but this decision is never made because of a lack 38 StreetScape Magazine
of space, preventing negative behaviors, or because a cat’s medical needs are difficult or expensive. The organization was founded in 2009 to address a lack of resources dedicated to stray cats and kittens in the St. Louis area. While several organizations focused on saving area felines, none possessed the specific mission of prioritizing cats with injuries and special needs about which founder, Elizabeth Frick, was deeply passionate. Starting with just a single foster home, no funding, and Frick’s friends and family, Tenth Life has blossomed into an organization with approximately 50 foster homes in the St. Louis area and more
than 100 cats in its care at any given time. It has grown through word-of-mouth, a strong presence on social media, and the dedication of the volunteers and supporters who champion its mission. In addition to saving these felines, Tenth Life gives these cats an opportunity to “give back” by helping bring comfort and companionship to those in nursing homes or therapy. In July of 2013, Tenth Life Cat Rescue kicked off a new outreach program called Tenth Life Cat Companions. This free service engages trained volunteers who take temperament-tested cats to clients in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and other community support organizations to provide therapeutic petting and play time with the cats. Response to the program has been incredible, with more than 930 clients being served by around 30 dedicated volunteers and approximately 11 cats. This adds up to more than 288 hours of visits. Residents report feeling calmer, happier, and more content during and after the volunteers’ visits. If you are interested in becoming a part of this program, check the website at www.catlifecats.org to attend one of the upcoming Volunteer Orientations. Tenth Life feels strongly that all pets should be spayed and neutered. An unbelievable number of companion animals are euthanized each day because there are not enough homes for them. The procedure helps cats live longer, healthier lives. In addition, * It decreases the cat’s risk of developing health problems related to the reproductive system. * Spaying prevents uterine or ovarian cancer and drastically decreases the chance of a female developing breast cancer, especially when spayed before the first estrous cycle. * Neutering prevents testicular cancer and decreases the incidence of prostate disease.
Since its founding in 2009, Tenth Life’s goal has been to create the most amazing shelter and adoption center the Midwest has seen. In its future home base, cats in their care will await adoption in the lap of kitty luxury, with sunny windowsills, comfy beds, and perches with stellar vantage points. The goal is that all the cats will feel like they are home until they truly are. The organization has purchased a building in the Fox Park neighborhood of St. Louis and will make its home there once construction and renovation is complete. They are currently accepting donations of windows, building materials and labor. They will also need volunteers to help with the renovation. Tasks may involve painting, gardening, cleaning, and more. TenthLife is currently located at 3200 Cherokee St. in St. Louis and is open Wednesdays through Saturdays, 12-5pm. They hold regular adoption events for you to meet all the cats in the rescue. For a listing of all of their events, see the website at www.tenthlifecats.org. An additional way to help this organization is to purchase a “Tomcats” Calendar….a Collection of Men and Cats. The calendars will be available for pre-order at $15 each. After September 30th, the price increases to $20. Check the website for ordering details: www.tenthlifecats.org. ¤
Fabulously affordable fashion, accessories, footwear & more! Open EVERY Friday-Sunday! Check our website for additional open dates and times!
124 S Main Street St. Charles, MO 63301 lillians.com/stcharles facebook.com/lilliansofstcharles September | October 2014
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FIRST IN
Class
Photography & Direction: Lance Tilford Styling & Wardrobe: Carson Lewallen with I.M.A.G.E. Entertainment Hair & Makeup: Adrienne Bruce with I.M.A.G.E. Entertainment Model: Georgia McQuillan with West Model & Talent Management Shot on location at Lindenwood University, St. Charles
The Overachiever Umgee dress and Miko bag from Lillian’s; socks from Target; Loafers from Bronx Diba; gold bangles from Finishing Touches
The Studious En crème pantsuit from Moss; metallic Oxfords from Bronx Diba; Scrunchie from Lillian’s; collared top from H&M; glasses and socks, Target
The Free Spirit Umgee crochet vest, turqouise necklace and earrings from Lillian’s; crop top from H&M; Floral overalls from Moss; Sandals from Bronx Diba; canvas bag from American Eagle; bangle bracelet, rings and necklace from Finishing Touches; coral necklace from April’s on Main
The Athlete Crop top, shorts, jacket and shoes from H&M; xhiliration visor from Target; socks from Nike; Geneve watch from Lillian’s
The Fashionista Naranka top from Joy’s boutique; pink lace shorts, bangles, purse and earrings from Lillian’s; hat from H&M; socks from Pac Sun; Luichiny heels from Bronx Diba; flower bracelet from April’s on Main
The Performer Jun & Min top from Joy’s; pants from Forever 21; silver bracelet from Finishing Touches; Lori Napoli pearl nicklace from April’s on Main 46 StreetScape Magazine
The Alternative Timing black tank from Moss; leather jacket from H&M; jeans from Urban Outfitters; Jeune Colette whistle necklace, earrings and DaVinci chain necklace from Lillian’s; boots from Bronx Diba
September | October 2014
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Lisa Mills
A ST. LOUIS TREASURE dating back prior to the St. Louis World’s Fair is returning for its tenth year in Lake St. Louis. Horses and riders from all over the country will compete for the coveted $30,000 Grand Prix and several prestigious national championships at the St. Louis National Charity Horse Show September 10-14 and 24-28 at the National Equestrian Center. Lisa Mills, past president and current vice president of the board of directors for the show, said the show has something for everyone; and best of all, it’s free. “The St. Louis National Charity Horse Show is a free, family-friendly event that you can feel totally comfortable bringing all ages to,” she said. “It’s a sporting event showcasing beautiful animals, some of them tops in their class. It really is an opportunity to learn another sport and to learn all about horses.” The $30,000 Grand Prix will be held at 2 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 14. General admission to the horse show and the Grand Prix is free. Refreshments, as well as all sorts of vendor items (both equestrian-themed and not), are available for purchase. Mills said if you want an up-close view of the jumping action, the Grand Prix offers ringside, tailgate parking for $75 per car. According to Mills, the show dates back more than 150 years. “The oldest and largest multi-breed horse show in the area, the St. Louis National Charity Horse Show attracts several hundred horses and riders from throughout the country,” she said.
St. Louis National Charity Horse Show
A St. Louis treasure 150 years strong Story by Robin Seaton Jefferson Photos Courtesy of Chris Mautz & Howard Schatzberg
48 StreetScape Magazine
The first national horse show was in St. Louis in 1856. Mills said Lexington was the first nationally famous horse to make his appearance in St. Louis. The purebred stallion was blind in one eye.“In the 1930s and 1940s, it was held in the old Arena in St. Louis. The place was always full. It was a different time.” Later the show was held at Queeny Park in St. Louis. For the last 10 years, the National Equestrian Center in Lake St. Louis has hosted the famous show. “We are a very old St. Louis tradition, and our organization continues to honor those traditions, which makes us somewhat unique in this industry,” Mills said. Some of those traditions include rolling out a red carpet from the door to the tuxedo-clad presenters each evening so the Saddlebred
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F RO M
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a L UgHs
T O
LEGENDs T O
BROADWAY
2014 – 2015 SEASON The arts are alive and well at Lindenwood, and we invite you to join us for a season of entertainment that promises to be our best yet! Whether it’s the free parking spot adjacent to the Center just moments after leaving the highway, or that with only 1,200 seats our main stage theater lets you see the action like it’s in your own living room, you’d be hard-pressed to find a venue as accessible, inviting, and friendly as ours. It’s all “Live at Lindenwood,” and you don’t want to miss a thing! Jay Leno: Live at Lindenwood - SOLD OUT!
Sept. 12, 2014
Dick Fox’s Golden Boys, starring - SOLD OUT! Frankie Avalon, Fabian, & Bobby Rydell
Sept. 27, 2014
Willie Nelson & Family - SOLD OUT!
Oct. 10, 2014
Oklahoma!
Oct. 30 - Nov. 1, 2014
Christmas with Amy Grant
Dec. 7, 2014
The National Acrobats of China
Dec. 13, 2014
Home for the Holidays with the Erin Bode Group Featuring the Children’s Choir of St. Charles School District
Dec. 19, 2014
The Russian National Ballet Theatre: Cinderella
Jan. 24, 2015
An Evening with Bernadette Peters
Feb. 7, 2015
The Beach Boys: Take Your Valentine to the Beach!
Feb. 14, 2015
Peter & The Starcatcher: The National Tour
May 2, 2015
The World Famous Glenn Miller Orchestra
May 23-24, 2015
Heidegger Heidegger er for the A rts er for the A rts LIVE
For tickets or to join our mailing list, please visit www.LUBoxOffice.com/Streetscape
AT L I N D E N W O O D
Lindenwood University J. Scheidegger Center for the Arts 2300 West Clay Street St. Charles, MO 63301 (636) 949-4433
September | October 2014
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Lisa Mills horses and riders may walk across it to accept their etched, Irish crystal trophies. “There are people who have been doing this riding for 30-plus years. Some have glasses, goblets, ice tea glasses and juice glasses,” Mills said. “The championship trophy is a flower vase. Children receive a combination of crystal and a stuffed animal.”
Besty Johnson
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The Saddlebred show kicks off September 24 and continues through September 28, with evening performances nightly at 7 p.m. in the indoor arena. Saddlebred Week is filled with prestigious events, including five national championship events for American Saddlebred Pleasure Horses. It is sponsored by Saddle & Bridle magazine and culminates with the Shatner Country Western Pleasure Championships on Saturday night. In Equitation, the Saddle & Bridle Pleasure Medallion Finals will be held in St. Louis, as well as the MHSA Junior Saddle Seat Equitation Medallion. Open Jackpot Stakes classes are being introduced this year for the
Fine Harness, Three-Gaited and Five-Gaited Horses. The $5,000 Ruth and R.S. Palmer Memorial Five-Gaited Stake on Saturday night is expected to draw top open five-gaited horses from throughout the country. The Saint Louis National Charity Horse Show is one of the premier horse shows in the country with Hunter, Jumper and American Saddlebred riders representing almost every state in the nation. “It’s a beautiful thing to watch, and it’s a beautiful thing to do. It’s truly a partnership. It’s a dance, because it’s not a car. It’s a living, breathing thing. It’s an exciting and beautiful sport. “Our ultimate goal is to put on a national level competition that attracts riders from across the U.S. In addition, many years ago the board decided that we would also like to support local charities with money and notoriety.” The show supports Stray Rescue of St. Louis and Therapeutic Horsemanship. Dogs from Stray Rescue will be available for adoption at the show, and Therapeutic Horsemanship students will perform a riding demonstration. The Hunter/Jumper Show takes place from September 10-14. All breeds are welcome to compete in this show. “The origins of this show go back to the hunt field,” Mills said. “Hunters are graceful, fluid and well-mannered, and have perfect form. Jumpers are the best when they are the fastest and don’t stop or knock anything down.” For more information on the St. Louis National Charity Horseshow, visit www.stlhorseshow.com. ¤
StreetScapeAug2014_Layout 1 8/1/14 9:18 AM Page 1
Academy of the Sacred Heart Independent Catholic Education in the Sacred Heart Tradition
116
TASTE OF CHRISTMAS SAT., NOV. 8
OPEN HOUSE WED., NOV. 12
ASH1818.ORG
636-946-6127
Educating and inspiring the hearts and minds of children to become courageous and confident leaders who know and love God, and who reveal that love by serving others. September | October 2014
51
A Life in Parts
With a soul that smiles
Story by Robin Seaton Jefferson Photos Courtesy of Vicki Bennington
52 StreetScape Magazine
L
It’s the irony of it all.
It was the holiday season of 2011, and Loretta Goebel was wrapping presents in her northern Illinois home when the doorbell rang. In a rush to answer the door, she hit her hand on the banister … a second in time that would change her life forever. By that evening, she had a fever, body aches and chills. Two days later, she was at the doctor’s office and was given a diagnosis of the flu. “There was no reason to assume anything else. It’s flu season. I was working in the library at the kids’ school,” Goebel said. Three days after that, her right arm was in unbearable pain. Goebel said she has a very high tolerance for pain, having had two natural childbirths. “I really just thought I’d slept on it wrong. But it was absolutely killing me.” That night, a Sunday, Goebel sent her husband Wally Goebel and her two children off to the Sunday school Christmas program without her, though she had been working on the show for weeks. “I don’t know what happened, but God spoke to my husband to come home. If Wally had not come home, they most likely would have come home to me being gone.” By the time Wally got her to the emergency room, Loretta’s body temperature didn’t even register— hypothermia had set in—and her blood pressure was 40 over 20. She had a sharp, red line that started at her right thumb and continued to her armpit. Within hours, Loretta was transported to another hospital and, after slipping into
unconsciousness during a CT scan, was put on life support. Her kidneys and liver were failing. Health care workers had given her over 70 pounds of fluid. She had gone into toxic shock, her body sending clumps of toxins and tons of microemboli throughout her body that were causing organ failure. Later the doctor would guess that it was the cracked skin on her hands that were to blame for the massive infection that had taken over her body. Ironically, because Loretta was a meticulous hand washer and cleaner, she had many cracks in her dry, winter skin. The doctor told Wally it was through one of these cracks on her thumb that the group A streptococcus bacteria had entered her blood stream. These are bacteria that normally reside on human skin and other surfaces without causing harm. “When I hit my hand on the banister, the blunt trauma propelled the bacteria into my bloodstream. Imagine the irony that I had that because I was anal from washing my hands,” Loretta said. In the coming days, surgeons kept her body open so it would be easier, as they returned to the operating room, to “chase the infection.” By December 19, just eight days after Loretta had hit her hand on the banister, doctors told her family they were done.
“They told my husband we needed a miracle, that there was nothing else they could do,” she said. Soon after, the doctors administered Levophed (norepinephrine) to raise her blood pressure with the hope that the blood would be directed to her major organs while she battled the infection. Because of the redirection of the blood to her major organs, her arms and legs were severely deprived, causing them to die. Loretta said the doctor told Wally, “The medical community has a saying about Levophed. It’s Levophed or leave them
dead.” The drug was a last resort with a very heavy cost. By Christmas Day, Loretta’s family was gathered in the ICU, waiting to see if the drugs would save her. Someone brought a CD from the Christmas program that Loretta had missed, and the music was playing. A silver cross was taped to Loretta’s shoulder by her sister which read, “God loves you.” “Everyone was singing praise music, and tears started rolling down my cheeks. I was on life support. I am a Christmas miracle,” Loretta said. Loretta woke up. She woke up to cold, hard, black fingers and toes. She said she remembers asking, “Did I almost die and dangle over Hell?” But she woke up. Loretta’s life was saved, although she did, indeed, lose both legs just below the knee, her left hand, and most of her fingers on her right hand. And it was enough for her. “I never asked God, ‘Why me?’” she said. “I did ask him, ‘Why my children?’” Her son Mitch, 9, and daughter Alyssa, 7, were the ones to suffer, she said. “I was the mom who did everything. Now I couldn’t do one thing.” Although she couldn’t walk, feed, or even bathe herself, what Loretta remembers as her most rewarding accomplishment was mastering the opening of the bread tie when she went to make her son’s lunch. “I love me, and I love my life, and I wanted it back, so I was bound and determined to look in the mirror and see me again,” Loretta said. “I had a choice, and I chose to rebloom.” So, after months of healing and numerous surgeries, including amputations of both legs on February 22, 2002, Loretta got about the business of living. “When that school bus pulled up, I was back to being mom,” she said. “When you are stripped of doing anything, everything is a celebration. Holding that toilet brush is a blessing.” September | October 2014
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Loretta Goebel It was through her reblooming that Loretta met Heather Mills, then-wife of legendary Beatle Sir Paul McCartney, who lost her leg when a motorcycle cop hit her in London. A friend from church had emailed Mills’ website asking her for a letter of encouragement for Loretta. Mills introduced Loretta to Dr. Jean Pillet, a prosthetist from Paris, who made her left hand, and Dorset Orthopaedic in southwest England, where she would get her new legs. Today Loretta has four pairs of legs, including those with permanent 2.5-inch lifted heels, for wearing with high heel shoes, and flat feet for wearing with tennis shoes or flats. Her left hand, as well as her legs, has been hand painted to match her skin tone perfectly. She can even change the polish on her fingernails and toenails. She said she often has fun with her removable parts, including putting one of her legs in a chair to save the seat for her boyfriend or leaving her arm in her purse and telling people she has a genuine handbag. “Handicapped, to me, is something that keeps you from being every day to its fullest. I’m not handicapped,” she said. Loretta can even jump on a trampoline. When asked if she ever got her answer for why this happened, she replied, “I think God has a huge sense of humor. I always wanted to be front and center, kind of like Sandra Bullock, but I had to pop off my limbs before I could do it.” Loretta said she understands irony, even if she doesn’t always understand God’s plan. The only digit that survived Loretta’s ordeal was her right thumb, the one she hit on the banister. For more information on Loretta and her book “A Life in Parts,” visit www.lorettagoebel.com or like her on Facebook. ¤
Rooted in Tradition, Embracing Innovation Lindenwood University is advancing the idea of what a university can be: loyal to debate and dialogue, cherishing diversity of thought, and devoted to our students. Lindenwood enjoys ever-increasing prominence. Following nearly two decades of rapid growth, an expansion of innovative academic programs and premium accreditations, Lindenwood thrives as one of the Midwest’s larger independent universities.
Education in a New Key
Lindenwood has struck a new chord ‌ orchestrating education in a new key.
ST. CHARLES BELLEVILLE TEN REGIONAL CENTERS 209 South Kingshighway St. Charles, MO 63301 (636) 949-2000 www.lindenwood.eduSeptember | October 2014 55
StreetScape Book Review Review by Main Street Books Cyn Rothschild has a few problems. First, her new school librarian is a demon. Second, her best friend has fallen head over heels in love with him. Now, Cyn has to keep the demon librarian from devouring the souls of the entire student body and save her best friend from becoming the demon’s bride, all while stage managing her school’s production of Sweeny Todd and trying not to turn into a blithering idiot in front of her crush. Sounds simple, right? Michelle Knudsen’s portrayal of high school is spot on, her snarky heroine is delightful, and she infuses enough humor into her horror to attract even the most anti-scary readers.
Title Evil Librarian Author Michelle Knudsen Publisher Candlewick Press, $
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Buy it at Main Street Books 307 S Main St., St. Charles MO 63301 (636) 949-0105 www.MainStreetBooks.net
Enjoying Cheese for Dessert Paired with a Missouri Port Story by Barrie Lynn | The Cheese Impresario www.TheCheeseImpresario.com A CLASSIC DESSERT in France is Roquefort Cheese, a blue sheep’s milk cheese that’s served with a glass of Port Wine. For this column, I wanted to look to the United States for the blue cheese and to my new home state, Missouri for the Port. I tasted through several artisanal blue veined cheeses and Port wines to bring you this delicious idea for entertaining at home. I know, it’s a job but someone’s got to do it!
Hill Vineyards in Defiance, Missouri. This stunning property is a terrific day trip for great food, delicious wines and their knowledgeable staff members who are well-versed in all that’s served. Everything at Chandler Hill Vineyards is done with passion that you can taste, see, smell and feel. The Crimson Arrow Port is a wonderful pairing with the goat blue cheese in that it has the body of being aged in French and American oak barrels for three years. Chandler Hill’s beloved winemaker, Tom Murphy, blends Norton and Chambourcin and his own alchemy adds in several other varietals for additional complexity. This Port delivers a richness of black berries, ripe plums, dark chocolate and to me, a bit of dried fig flavors. I serve the Chèvre in Blue at room temperature with a crusty French baguette with some unsalted almonds and dried Mission figs on the side. I poured the Port and took a bite of the cheese and coated my tongue making The Cheese Highway. Then I took a joyful sip of the Chandler Hill’s Crimson Arrow Port. The Port comes through first with and then the delicious rich flavors of the cheese mingle in complexity and you have a delightful dessert that’s easy to serve and will thrill your guests. Enjoy! I’ve also included a Fabbo Goat Blue Cheese Salad Dressing recipe provided by the talented people at Montchevré:
I decided to focus on a goat’s milk blue cheese by Montchevré named Chèvre in Blue. I liked the idea of bringing you a new idea for enjoying cheese for dessert with your family and friends. Chèvre in Blue is aged more than 90 days and is made by award-winning cheesemaker, Jean Rossard, from top quality goat’s milk. In your mouth it delivers that distinctive goat tang along with the luscious flavors from the blue veins running throughout this cheese. There is a richness to cheeses crafted with excellent milk and this goat blue is certainly rich as well as even a bit crumbly. Chèvre in Blue was deservedly awarded Best of Class at the 1999 National Cheese Awards. The Port I chose is Crimson Arrow Port made by Chandler
Fabbo Goat Blue Cheese Salad Dressing Recipe: Montchevré’s Goat Blue Cheese Dressing from “Cooking with Montchevré” WHAT YOU WILL NEED... 1 White Onion Sliced 2 Shallots Sliced 1 tbsp Olive Oil 5 Ounces Chèvre in Blue 1 Lemon, zest and juice
1 Garlic clove minced 1 Cup Buttermilk 1 Cup Crème Fraîche or Sour Cream to taste Salt *yields 32 oz. of dressing
In a medium saucepan, cook down onions and shallots in olive oil. Add a hint of salt and entire minced garlic clove. Once the onions are translucent and cooked through take them out of the pan and let them cool. Once cool, puree the dressing in a blender. Add Chèvre in Blue. Then, add buttermilk and crème fraîche alternating one at a time, adding half of the amount each time. Add lemon juice and zest. Add salt as you wish! *Best served with butter and romaine lettuce, sliced radishes and shallots. Sources: www.Montchevre.com & www.Chandlerhillvineyards.com September | October 2014
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FOOTBALL Story by Kate Santellano Photos Courtesy of Kate Santellano
Labor Day marks the official end of summer. Summer camps, swimming and lazy days are but a mere memory. Cooler weather, falling leaves and shorter days have replaced the sun drenched poolside parties. Along with beautiful foliage fall allows for some great outdoor fun. I’m talking about football! Both tailgate and indoor parties seem to be a rite of passage for fans, because it is, after all, a perfect combination of food, friends and fun. And just as the seasons change, so should your menu! We put together a list of some tried and true tips to make your fall entertaining a victory!
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Seasoned tailgaters are very serious about their gear, food and of course the game. While everyone has their own version of what it means to be a pro tailgater, and regardless the tradition, it always boils down to three basic steps; planning, food and fun. Planning ahead is an obvious necessity, but worth noting. Get your guests in the winning spirit with festive drink koozies.
that travel well and can be prepared in advance. Serve something that is associated with the rival city to add a bit of fun. If your team is playing the Chicago Bears, create a Chicago-style hot dog bar.
Whether you’re at an NFL or collegiate game, the competitive spirit will be running rampant through the air so be prepared with games like corn hole, washer toss, Horseshoes, Frisbee and Tailgate Of course, if you are in charge of Bowling. If possible, find an area that has cooking you will remember the food and extra space to spread your games out. After grill. But don’t forget the utensils, all, you will have at least 3 to 4 hours before seasonings, charcoal and lighter fluid! You are wise to make a list of food items you will the game begins. need and another for everything else such as Finally, you need to have a portable TV chairs, bug spray, lights (if your event takes hooked up so you can enjoy the pre-game place in the evening). If you don’t want to stand the entire time, bring chairs, tables, etc. and the game. At the very least you will need a portable radio (don’t forget cables and batteries). Try a cooler with an Have a few different coolers, each with integrated radio! a designated beverage (one for “Varsity” aka beer, “JR Varsity”: aka water and soft Not everyone can afford seats to the game, drinks). or lives close enough to tailgate so what is a homeowner to do? Don’t worry if you don’t Foods that can be prepared the day before have tickets; take advantage of the crisp fall are a great option and timesaver. Chili, weather and recreate an affordable tailgate hamburger patties, and dips are great foods
party at home. Mirror your tabletop to look like a football field or make a goal post out of PVC pipe and use as a focal point. Supplies can be purchased at local party stores, and some you can make at home. Create a mini-stadium by setting up rows of metal folding chairs that face the screen. As the weather gets chillier, provide stacks of blankets so your guests feel like they are really at the stadium rooting for your team. Dress up your dessert table with football cookies, cake pops, whoopie pies, whoopie pie cake pops, or football shaped Rice Krispie treats. Your guests will love that you kept with the football theme by including fun desserts! So whether you brave the crowd and head to the game, stay inside to cheer on your team or transform your garage into a makeshift parking lot, introducing little touches will score big with your guests.
Hawaiian Ham & Swiss Slider What you will need: • 1 pound Deli ham shaved • 1 pound Swiss cheese thinly sliced • 1 1/2 sticks Butter • 1 1/2 tablespoons Dijon mustard • 1 1/2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce • 1 1/2 teaspoons Minced onion dried • 1 12-pack KING’S HAWAIIAN Original Hawaiian Sweet Dinner Rolls Melt butter and mix in mustard, sauce and onion. Cut the entire pack of rolls in half, horizontally (keeping all top and bottom halves separately in tact). In a 9x13 inch pan, place bottom half of rolls and cover with ham and cheese. Cover ham and cheese stacks with top half of rolls. Drizzle butter mixture over top of rolls, making sure onion is evenly distributed. Refrigerate overnight. September | October 2014 59 Bake uncovered at 350 degrees for 15-20 minutes and, once finished, separate for serving.
TAILGATE CHILI This is a great and simple chili, full of flavor, and plenty of spice. It’s best when refrigerated overnight and reheated before the game. One tip: season meat heavily with chili powder, cumin, salt and pepper while browning.
What you will need: • 1 pound ground beef • 1 pound ground pork • 2 tablespoons olive oil • 1 large onion, chopped, divided • 1 green bell pepper, chopped • 1 habanero peppers, seeded and minced • 2 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced • 3 cloves garlic, minced • 3 tablespoons chopped green onion • 3 (15 ounce) cans chili beans • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
• • • • • • • • • • • •
1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce 1 (12 ounce) bottle lager-style beer 2 tablespoons cornmeal 1 cup water 1/4 cup chili powder 1 tablespoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 tablespoon salt 1 1/2 teaspoons ground black pepper 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
Tip: KJS Events sells all your tailgating gear! Coolers, t-shirts, koozies, etc. Check out our website at www.kjsevents.com
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1. Cook ground beef and pork in a large skillet over medium-high heat
until the meat is crumbly, evenly browned, and no longer pink. Drain and discard any excess grease.
2. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Stir in 3/4 of the onion and all of the green pepper, habanero pepper, jalapeno pepper, and garlic. Cook and stir until the onion has softened and turned translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir the drained meat into the onion mixture along with the green onion, chili beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, beer, and water. Sprinkle with the cornmeal, then season with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. 3. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer at least 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Refrigerate overnight.
4. Reheat the chili over medium heat until it begins to simmer again. Top individual servings of chili with cheese and remaining chopped onion.
kjsevents.com
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“HOW YOU DOIN’, Willy? Are there shenanigans afoot?” James Huffman, director of the RHD Blank Canvass Studios in St. Charles, jokes around with one of the residents there, as a group of adult, day program participants takes a walk outside. His coworker does the same as she sings the Dexys Midnight Runners’ 1980s hit, “Come on Eileen,” to another resident of the same name. “Oh, come on, Eileen,” she quips. Huffman said every staff member at RHD Blank Canvass Studios is an artist who has been trained as a direct care worker for individuals with disabilities. “We take an artist and train them to be direct care staff, not the other way around,” he clarified. “Everybody in the building is an artist.”
A work of art & kindness Story by Robin Seaton Jefferson Photos by Michael Schlueter
Staff member playing games with student
Staff member playing games with student
RHD (Resources for Human Development) Blank Canvass Studios and its Off the Wall Outsider Art Gallery is a day program for developmentally disabled adults. Huffman is the director. The artists who work there are not just art teachers, though. They have been trained to give medication and help with feeding and other personal needs that their special students might have. The reality of the studio is a far cry from where “outsider art” originated, however. A creative arts program for individuals with developmental disabilities, the RHD-sponsored studio provides people of all ability levels the opportunity to create and be celebrated for their very special style of outsider art. Huffman explained the term “outsider art” broadly refers to artists with no formal training. But primarily, it has come to describe the work of artists with disabilities. It comes from the term “art brut,” coined by French Artist Jean Dubuffet, to describe the artwork of prisoners and asylum inmates in the 1940s, he said. Today, outsider art is a thriving medium with a devoted following.
The staff at Blank Canvas 62 StreetScape Magazine
So there are 54 artists in the building at any given time—25 of them just happen to work there, he said.
Founded in 1970 and headquartered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, RHD is a diversified, human services nonprofit serving people of all abilities. It has more than 160 locallymanaged human service programs in 14 states.
Missouri has RHD studios in St. Charles and Bridgeton and residential units in St. Charles and Kansas City.
opportunities to do anything in art,” he said. “In another time, these folks were locked away, sometimes chained to walls, and relegated to a life of seclusion and segregation because they were deemed as not being able to make a contribution.”
“RHD has long embraced art programs for people of all abilities as a means of offering creativity-based healing and learning opportunities and also as a way to empower This is an assumption Blank Canvass is people to realize their creative potential and proving wrong again and again. explore various means of personal expression,” Huffman said. “The results are often extraordinary.” For nearly 35 years, RHD has provided a wide range of human services for the most vulnerable members of society, including people with developmental disabilities, mental illness, addictions, and homeless individuals and families. Huffman said its programs effect lasting social change through economic and community development. Unique in its model of nonprofit sponsorship and corporate approach to social service, RHD has, since 1970, been developing programs that demonstrate innovation, effectiveness, caring, flexibility, and efficiency. Governmental agencies, private groups, and individuals come to RHD with needs and ideas; and RHD provides program planning and implementation expertise, ongoing programmatic and technical assistance, as well as financial and administrative support. Before coming to Blank Canvass, Huffman stated, he nearly left the human services field altogether, feeling hopeless about ever being able to make a difference in people’s lives. “I was done with human services. But I love this. I love the fact that you actually treat people and work with these people as people. We are all one and the same here. There are no special bathrooms or break rooms. Sometimes it’s hard to tell the staff from the residents.” Participants at the studio have been diagnosed with everything from autism to Angelman syndrome. Whether they’re painting, creating a video, sculpting, printing, working with wood or pottery, or making a compact disk, everyone in the program works daily on creating something. The artistic and creative abilities displayed by participants are mind-blowing, Huffman said. “Until recently, people with developmental disabilities have not been given many
“It gives them an outlet for expression, something they can lay out there without any judgment. They take pride in what they do.”
“They have this fantastic imagery inside them,’’ said Lori Bartol, director of the Center for Creative Works, one of RHD’s many award-winning art programs. “We just give them the tool box.” Huffman emphasized that there is little he and his fellow artists won’t try to enlighten their special charges. The Blank Canvass even houses a full recording studio where program participants can make vocalizations, build songs, play instruments, and even make albums to sell.
participants, is an example of a Blank Canvass success story, Huffman said. “Andrew never did any art before. Now he has pieces across the country from Philadelphia to here. He’s made a comfortable living painting.” Anyone in the program can sell their artwork in the Outsider Art Gallery at RHD Blank Canvass Studios, which holds a few shows per year, along with Fine Line Studios in Bridgeton, Missouri, and the STL Outsider Art Fair at the Koken Art Factory in South St. Louis. Beginning in August, Outsider Art Gallery will hold First Fridays. On the first Friday of the month, the studios will hold an art show in its newly renovated art gallery. To showcase even more artwork from artists with disabilities across the country, RHD has created “Outside In” on its online gallery. For more information on RHD Blank Canvass Studios, call 636-724-6616, email info@rhd-mo.org, or visit either www.blankcanvasstudios.org or www.rhd.org. ¤
“If we’re not doing it, it’s because someone hasn’t thought of it yet or figured out a way to do it.” Musician and staff worker, Molly Chakides, said she helps participants make their own music by talking to them about whatever subject matter they might be interested in, composing lyrics, discussing beats, and accenting with instruments. “It gives them an outlet for expression, something they can lay out there without any judgment. They take pride in what they do.” Huffman said staffers aren’t really there to teach as much as foster creativity. Often times they are the ones who learn something. “We don’t teach people art as much as we give them opportunities.” Andrew, one of the program’s September | October 2014
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Ask the Expert APRIL’S ON MAIN is a unique woman’s getaway. We are a complete home decor and gift store. From the one of a kind centerpiece to the perfect necklace made just for your needs. We carry silk florals, artwork, furniture, candles, jewelry, lotion, table top accessories, Poo-Pouri and much more. We have in-house designers to help you with all of your decor needs. Aprils On Main St. Charles can be found Facebook, Yelp! and Twitter.
How can I make the outside of my home more inviting? Use outside door décor to help welcome your guests and give your home a new look for every season and holiday throughout the year. Choose a variety of styles such as wreaths, swags, and baskets for your door decor to continuously create fresh new looks. By switching out your décor for each season, it will also help preserve your varied pieces for years to come. Also feel free to take risks! Don’t be afraid to use oversized decor and a variety of colors to make it pop. In fact, if your décor is larger, you will not even notice the color of your door. It will even draw more attention to your home and make it more inviting and visible from the street. Remember, outside door décor items make great housewarming gifts for that newly purchased home for a friend or new neighbor.
What are the rules about everything in a room needing to match? The rules of everything needing to match are long gone! Think outside the box and mix all colors and styles. If you have a traditional style, mix metals such as copper, silver and platinum with all different shades of woods for a warm, inviting look. If you prefer a trendier look, go industrial and mix metals with crystal or painted furniture. For quick way to repurpose furniture, paint it with chalk paint or faux paint to add a pop of color to any room in your home. One sure way to make your home memorable is to have a unique look that people cannot stop talking about. If you need help or suggestions, please stop by April’s On Main to speak with one of our on-hand designers. 64 StreetScape Magazine
How can I freshen up my wardrobe? Accessorize! Just a few key accessories can make your whole wardrobe look brand new. Use an infinity scarf to add color to any style of outfit. If you already have a collection of scarves, considering adding a scarf accent to create a more sophisticated look. Jewelry is always a great way to add color and fashion. Stacking bracelets, layering necklaces and mixing pieces such as watches and bracelets are just a few ideas. For the change in seasons, add a colorful shawl to layer over existing pieces. If you have a certain color or style in mind, April’s On Main has hand-crafted, one-of-a-kind basic baubles made to match any outfit for that special occasion or for every day. Whether you need earrings, necklaces, or bracelets there are over 500 components to help you customize the exact look you want.
Why should you work with a designer when choosing window fashions? At Gary Currie Designs, located in April’s On Main, we value good design aesthetics, quality craftsmanship in products and understand how to meet your needs when it comes to window coverings. We offer a full custom line of products ranging from blinds, shutters, shades, and draperies. Whether your window covering needs are for energy efficiency, light control, privacy, or just dressing up your home with draperies, we work with you to offer you design and color consulting and professional installation to provide the perfect fit for your home or office while always considering your lifestyle and taste.
We have something for everyone.
From custom florals, jewelry, lotions, artwork, upholstery, furniture and more. Whether you need a gift or the perfect accessory to complete your home.
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Store Hours: MWF 9:30-7pm T |TR|SAT 9:30-5pm Sunday 11:30- 5pm Aprils on Main St Charles
(636)395-7605 222 North Main St St. Charles MO 63301 September | October 2014
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Jeff Moody (left) and Michelle Moody (right)
Upward Bound Sparking potential in the heart of St. Charles Story by Robin Seaton Jefferson Photos by Michael Schlueter Growing up in church, Jeff Moody remembers a time when it was the church, combined with the home, which gave kids limits and structure in their lives. “It was a foundation. There were parameters and boundaries that were applicable to all of us,” he said. It is this foundation that Moody and his wife Michelle Moody hope to rebuild with at-risk young men in St. Charles County with Restoration House. “Kids don’t have that as much today. So if they are ostracized in their homes because of addictions of family members or their own struggles, they 66 StreetScape Magazine
don’t have the community of support as we did 20 years ago. They’re more on their own.” Jeff runs Upward Bound Outreach through which he shares a message of hope and love in juvenile justice facilities across the country. He does it in an attempt “to create a stronger bridge for the community, community organizations and churches to reach out, mentor, and encourage at-risk youth,” he said. “We have seen what love can do.” His message is simple. He shares God by way of John 3:16 and tells each individual
young man he speaks to that he is loved. That means when he speaks to a room full of 100 incarcerated youth, he goes around to them individually and looks them in the eye and says, “You are loved.” It’s a three-word phrase many of them have never heard before. Upward Bound Outreach began as a music ministry in 1983, but it’s been completely transformed into an outreach ministry largely due to Jeff’s travels to juvenile justice facilities in Florida. In 2010, Jeff answered the call to be an
advocate for those with no voice in society. “Kids in juvenile justice centers around the U.S. have been written off by society, but God has not written them off,” he said. That year he was invited to speak at a facility in Florida. He ended up visiting 22 of the centers in 10 days. “That’s where it started, learning about what I knew but had never experienced. I got close enough to experience their hearts.” Using a biblical reference, Jeff said it’s the “least of these” who are both inside and outside of the church, who are struggling, and who go unnoticed. “We don’t notice they might be alone or struggling. We’re not trying to be mean; we are just all distracted.” Jeff said one of the realizations he came to on his first visit to Florida’s detention facilities was that the young people he saw there really believed that nobody cares about them. “We want to help them let go of their past and not be identified by their past. At that point they are able to embrace that there are people there for them regardless of the letdowns. We have to believe in their potential.” Jeff and Michelle made the commitment in 2010 that Jeff would visit every juvenile detention facility in the state of Florida that year, without pay. Michelle stayed home with the couple’s four children. By November 19, he was at the last of 171 facilities, 30 of which he had visited twice. He made seven self-funded trips to the Sunshine State to “meet them where they were” and spread his message of hope and love because, he said, he was called “to walk down every aisle and look into every eye, and say three words based on John 3:16.”
and the foster care system and will walk teens through a program of restoration and transformation.
them, offer apprenticeships, and assist with continuing education. A couple will be chosen to live in the house as foster parents. Jeff said they are look“The message and mission is to stay true ing for a couple preferably in their fifties to all populations of youth,” Michelle said. whose own children are grown. Also, “We are doing all we can to reach and help they prefer that the man work but the at-risk youth. Jeff works primarily with over woman stay home. “We want constant 10,000 incarcerated youth nationwide each camaraderie for the kids,” he said. year. Because of that mission and becoming aware of the need, we are moving upstream a The Moody’s intention is to replicate the little, reaching out locally to foster boys who home in other communities once this one are facing a difficult future. The mission is completed. spans across the board to house and restore boys in the foster system in St Charles.” “These kids are going to be greater than Upward Bound Outreach currently has a their circumstances,” Jeff said. “We contract on a home at 305 Morgan Street, just have to be a spark in the void where in St. Charles, and the community support they’re just waiting for someone to come of several individuals and organizations. into their life.” Community partners so far include, among others, Ben Blanton of Blanton Construction, For more information on Restoration Bill Luetkenhaus of Luetkenhaus Properties, House, call 314-422-4138 or visit Steve Lang of Lang Insurance and Frank www.upwardboundoutreach.org. Trulaske of True Fitness. For more information on the October 17 Blanton will be the keynote speaker at a fun- fundraiser, call Michelle at draiser for Restoration House on October 17. 314-440-7789 or email her at: Jeff and Michelle are still searching for michelle.moody@ individuals, civic organizations and churches upwardboundoutreach.org. ¤ for donations to purchase this first house and launch the mission. As of July, they have raised $150,000 of the approximately $300,000 needed.
“This historic home is large and spacious. It’s the perfect place to restore the lives of youth, while teaching them life skills and learning how to give Jeff said he doesn’t get to see the difference back to their commuhe made there, if any. But he wants to nity,” Michelle said. continue his message locally with “We are praying for Restoration House. Although the young men community partners to he will be working with here are not incarcer- help us purchase the ated, Jeff wants at-risk young men to see a home. It’s more than different future for themselves here than the buying a home, but one he saw in Florida. He wants to give them providing a future for mentoring and life skills that will guide them at-risk kids.” through difficult choices and harsh environments. Along with giving at-risk youth a place The solution, according to Jeff and Michelle, to live, Michelle said is to open their first group home for troubled the Restoration House youth, The Restoration House. The house program will seek to will operate under Upward Bound Outreach mentor and counsel September | October 2014
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Fit in Fitness Building a healthy lifestyle Story by Maria Mazzola As a personal trainer, there is nothing more rewarding than having a client succeed. A client will most likely succeed if: • He/she is provided with the right tools to work with. • He/she has some knowledge about healthy eating. • He/she can get past the first month. It’s so important for people to see results. The excitement of feeling thinner, more energetic, and feeling those clothes hang a little looser are all motivators that help a person want to continue with what he’s doing. As a coach who holds monthly challenge groups, the people who see success are the people who are 100 percent on board with making a change --- a lifestyle change, not just a diet. You must be willing to set aside a certain period each day and night. You must be willing to make up for days missed or days that you are not feeling well. You must take a few hours each week to plan your meals. You must accept that there will be challenges everyday getting in the way … birthday parties, holidays, weddings, vacations, office parties, etc. The person who succeeds is the person who can accept there are hurdles and knows how to deal with these challenges.
All or Nothing? So, you decide that it’s time. Do you begin eating a 100 percent healthy diet and work out six days a week for an hour, or do you slowly factor healthy decisions into your life?
calorie consumption is usually quite an eye opener when you realize how many calories you are putting in your mouth every day. Most apps will calculate your resting metabolic rate based on the information that you provide, such as height and weight. Stick be low that number, and you should get a good idea of how much food you should be consuming every day.
From my experience with the challenge groups, keeping people on track with strict rules of eating can send them in the other • Try to eliminate foods and drinks that are straight up unhealthy. direction. My conclusion is that moderation is the way to go. They bring nothing to the table but unwanted weight gain and You can’t force people to stay on track, but you can let them sluggishness. It starts at the grocery store, so if you don’t buy it, know that just cutting portions in half or swapping some foods it won’t get consumed! Hold off on purchasing the sweet sugary for healthier alternatives can make a world of difference. snacks or the salty fried chips. Instead, think of creative ways to snack on fruits and vegetables throughout the day. My average client is 35–55 years of age, and this can be a difficult age to change it all up, especially when you have families • Swap out the old standbys. Exchange whole wheat breads for with busy schedules and kids that are used to their favorite white breads and skim, almond or soy milk for whole milk. Leave meals. Often the parent trying to lose weight will cook separate the cheese off. Think about the sandwich you are getting ready to meals just to keep the peace. eat. Would you really notice the cheese missing? Probably not. I give my clients a lot of tips to start factoring into their lives, so • No more fast food. At least limit the number of times you eat out they can make a slow transition. My motto is, “I would rather each week. When you do eat out, recognize that the portion sizes have them learn slowly then not at all.” are usually two to three times bigger than what you should be consuming.
Here are some changes you can make in your eating habits in order to transition into a healthier lifestyle: • Find a fitness app. An app that allows you to keep track of 68 StreetScape Magazine
• More white meat and fish and less red meat. Try leaner meats, such as flank steak or rump roast if red meat is what you love. Always trim fat from the cut of meat before cooking.
• Salads are only as healthy as you make them. The key to a healthy salad is light or no cheese, lots of bright fruits and vegetables, small portions of lean meat cut into bite size pieces, and light dressing or light vinaigrette. Leave off the croutons or the fried crunchies and substitute pine nuts or sunflower seeds for a little extra crunch. • Try to avoid seconds. I have always told my son, “When you are finished eating, wait 20 minutes. If you are still hungry, come back.” Nine times out of 10, he forgets that he wanted seconds. As your food digests, you become less hungry. • Have an open mind to trying new foods. You may not have liked something as a child, but our taste buds change. You may like something now that you are older versus when you were a child. • Make time to prepare your meals for the week. This could be the most important change that I list. When you have your week planned, there is no fast food or unhealthy snacking if you plan the week right; but this takes a lot of time. Search healthy meals online or buy a cookbook that suits your family’s food preferences. Try modifying some of your current recipes for healthier alternatives. Remember that reduced fat will probably be high in calories, and light or less sugar may be high in fat. • Try shutting the kitchen doors by 7 p.m. A trainer/nutritionist from the gym I used to work at had a rule that stated, “If you eat carbs after 4 p.m., you better burn them, or you will wear them.” I love that rule. It’s so true!
Then we need to talk about exercise and working out. This can be intimidating if you have never done it. So here are some fitness tips: • Moving is always better than sitting on the couch. Walk the dog; do yard work; and if the store isn’t too far, then walk to pick up an item or two. Grab a friend or neighbor to walk with you. Company is always more fun, and you can hold each other accountable. • Push yourself. Have a conversation with yourself. Know that pushing yourself a little harder each time creates quicker results. • Don’t use “too busy” as an excuse. Work out at home to DVDs, walk the treadmill, or hop on the elliptical. Turn part of your basement or spare room into your workout area. If you don’t have the heavy equipment, DVDs are quite affordable. Many cable or television companies offer free classes on demand; you just have to search to find them. • Check out some local classes at the YMCA or community center. • Hire a trainer to show you how to work out at home. Have them show you the importance of stretching and working out muscle groups and opposing muscle groups. Have him give you some tips on how to use fun equipment, such as stability balls, bands or dumbbells. • Subscribe to a fitness magazine. Really read through it and pick up tips that you can factor into your life. Many of them have great recipes. Open your mind to trying new things and figuring out how to eliminate the things that will undermine your healthy lifestyle goals. ¤
Rock It to Fit, Inc MariaMazzola@sbcglobal.net 314-707-0512 September | October 2014
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LET’S FACE IT Fall Trends for your Closet Story by Tamara Tungate
It’s that time when beach, pools and keeping cool are starting to take a back seat to the changing weather that’s creeping in. Fall runway looks that showed up in February during fashion week are making their way to the Ready to Wear racks so here is a primer on picking some trendy pieces to update your 2014 fall wardrobe.
Color Trends
Blanket Coats
Let’s start off with the Fall 2014 color palette. Designers created garments in
Nothing screams cozy/comfy more than a
warm tones of red, orange, brown, shades of green and dark tones of blue. It’s
robe, and this fall’s trend in outerwear is all
bringing the colors of a forest to your closet.
about comfortable fit and touchable textures
Enchanted Forest
texes visiting us so frequently this might be a
Get your magical groove on with owls, birds, plants, foxes, trees and other types of forest dwellers crawling up and around blouses and jackets. My faves are the busy patterns in muted tones.
Busy Graphics + Magic Eye
Bold and chaotic patterns that can hypnotize or cross your eyes show up in many separates. Best way for an average gal to wear them is in a blouse or T-shirt
paired with solids, which shows a little spunk and flare but is not over the top.
Sneak Attack
with wrap around warmth. With Polar Vorvery wise purchase for the season.
Not your Grannie’s Knitwear Oversized chunky sweaters with extra-long sleeves, long skirts and even knitted pants add another dimension to the homey feel
of this year’s fall trends. Unconventional
Loud and sporty sneakers continue to rule supreme in the footwear market, and
knitted garments take it to a whole new level
this fall season reveals more embellishments and wackier details. This is another fun way to spice up your style, so by-pass the traditional and buy something that
Turtlenecks
60’s are Back
Western Gal
Now that we’ve stocked up our wardrobe
A western influence is pretty unique and
aside for the big turtleneck sweater this
shows your wackier side.
Lovin’ that Mad Men style? I think
designers were also. They’re reinvigorating tights, Dolly dresses, knee boots and accessories to get your groove on and brighten up dreary winter days. 70 StreetScape Magazine
engaging. Wide brimmed black felt hats meets Goth/Boho fringe, leather or knit
garments finished off with a knee-high or ankle bootie. A statement to be sure!
with scarves it seems they are being moved season. And we mean BIG! Loose or tight
necks oversized to the ears are the flavor, and are sure to give plenty of space to bury your face in on those cold winter days.
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Skater blocking opponent
MENTION ROLLER DERBY to anyone over forty and they most likely will think of the 1960s international sex symbol Raquel Welch playing K.C. Carr, “the hottest thing on wheels,” in the 1972 drama “Kansas City Bomber.” Then again, roller derby may elicit images of Jim Croce’s “…5-foot-6, 215, bleach blonde bomber with a streak of mean…” --- his “Roller Derby Queen.” Neither image would encompass everything about the St. Chux Derby Chix (SC/DC). But Hollywood did touch on two of the group’s characteristics. They are tough. And they are beautiful. But they’re also smart. They are doctors and teachers and accountants. They’re strategists, cheerleaders, fighters, and moms. “We’re not brawlers,” said Darci “Ninja” McAfee, 35, a blocker/pivot on the team and a property manager in real life. “Girls have gotten punched and swung on; however,” she said, “elbows, punches, and tripping are illegal.” There is checking, though; and there are legal places to hit people. Penalty boxes exist for a reason in derby, just like in hockey. The children of the St. Chux Derby Chix, who range in age from three weeks to almost 20, are proud of their moms, said jammer/ blocker Beth “Jedi Knight-N-Gale” Henry, 24. “They know their moms can beat up anybody else’s mom.” Nevertheless, she concedes that the sport is really about athleticism and team work. “It’s more about the sports. It’s less of a show. It’s not like professional wrestling where everything’s fake.”
SC/DC Taking roller derby to a whole new level of cool Story by Robin Seaton Jefferson Photos by Michael Schlueter
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Henry said that in the past, roller derby was more scripted, though the sport has always been very athletic. “They did kind of slot people as villains and good guys. The modern resurrection of derby is real. It’s athletic with rules on a flat track.” Roller derby began in 1935 when sports promoter Leo Seltzer, looking for attractions to fill the Chicago Coliseum, created the Transcontinental Roller Derby. It began as an endurance race featuring a team of one man and one woman, roller skating on a banked track in a mythical race from one coast to the
St. Charles felt it was just too far a drive, especially to practice three to four times per week. These girls needed local, hardcore derby; and so, St. Chux Derby Chix were born. With a logo resembling that of the pioneering metal band, AC/ DC, one of the highest grossing bands of all time, SC/DC is made up of two travel teams, Hell’s Belles and Pack in Black. Hell’s Belles is a take off on the first track (“Back in Black”) of AC/DC’s first album without its original lead singer, Bon Scott. Pack in Black is a reference to the title song from the same LP, “Back in Black,” with new singer Brian Johnson. Pack in Black is a WFTDA chartered team. SC/DC is currently a Class A Division 2 league and, as of March 31, is ranked at 43 with WFTDA. In its inaugural season, just five years ago, the team was ranked in the hundreds, said Ashley “AK47 Whip L Ash” Keene, a nursing student. Just last year, the Chix were at 75. “Now we are 43 in the world,” she said. In August, the team will be participating in its first WFTDA Division Playoffs in Duluth, Minnesota. Mesha “June Cleavage” Williams, 38, said there’s no denying that roller derby is a full-contact sport. She said she’s broken both ankles, a femur, and torn all the ligaments in her knees.
Gearing up other. According to www.rollerderbyhalloffame.com, the game was modeled after dance marathons and bike races popularized in the 1930s. Seltzer’s sport debuted at the Coliseum on August 13, 1935. Using women in his game was a double-edged sword for Seltzer. He knew the presence of women athletes would sell tickets, but the mainstream press would not consider his sport legitimate or worthy of their coverage. From there, roller derby got rougher until, in the 1970s, it peaked as a women’s rolling version of hockey. It was reinvented in the early 2000s in Texas, but with a lighter touch.
Laura “Blue Collar Brawler” Burbank admits she’s the newbie on the team, but she’s got potential. A health care navigator during working hours, Burbank, 32, said she couldn’t refuse when a former teammate, whom she worked with, hip-checked her at the copier.
Skater GI Jamie
The objective of roller derby is pretty simple, though there are many rules and regulations, as with any sport. Roller derby is played by two teams of five members roller skating in the same direction around a track. Short matchups or “jams” are played during which both teams designate a scoring player (the jammer) to score points by lapping members of the opposing team. The teams, in effect, play both offense and defense simultaneously in an attempt to assist their own jammer, while hindering the opposing jammer. The St. Chux Derby Chix are part of the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association (WFTDA), a national governing body for femaleonly, skater-owned, flat-track roller derby leagues. The league was founded in August of 2009, started bouting in 2010, and became a full WFTDA league in September of 2012. Although St. Louis city has an established roller derby team, the original skaters from September | October 2014
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The SC/DC team
Skater vying for position
Setting up a formation “I didn’t go anywhere, so she said, ‘You regularly travel around the Midwest to play against other leagues and to take part in should play.’” tournaments and invitationals. Basically, all of the girls have grit, All of the skaters are unpaid and pay Keene said. “There are different personality types; but when it comes down monthly dues to keep the league running. Like many of the all-female, skater-owned to it, every girl on the team has grit. We’re all like sisters. We can fight with leagues around the country, SC/DC donates a portion of its bout proceeds to local charities each other, but no one else can fight and spends time volunteering at events and with us.” fundraisers. The St. Chux Derby Chix hold their Skaters must be 18 years of age and older, local bouts and practices at Matteson but there is no upper age limit. The team Square Garden Sports Facility in St. Peters. Some practices are also held at even has a mother-daughter duo skating for them. For more information on SC/DC, Great Skate, also in St. Peters. They 74 StreetScape Magazine
including how to join the team, visit www. stchuxderbychix.com. Croce may have had it right in the 1970s, but AC/DC’s lyrics for “Back in Black” are more fitting for the sport today: “Yes, I am in a bang with the gang. They gotta catch me if they want me to hang, ‘cause I’m back on the track, and I’m beatin’ the flack. Nobody’s gonna get me on another rap. So look at me now, I’m just makin’ my play. Don’t try to push your luck, just get out of my way…” ¤
WALK-INS WELCOME
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IT’S REALLY ALMOST Forrest Gump-ish that a curious little boy from O’Fallon, Mo., could grow up to travel the world, fly space shuttles, and go to school with a prince just by taking the next step—without the low IQ, of course. Retired Air Force Major Todd Thompson, in contrast, was very bright. So bright, in fact, that he blew through Rolla with a Bachelor of Science degree in engineering management and a concentration in aerospace. He really just wanted to be an aerospace engineer; but as fate would have it, there weren’t any jobs. “I went into an interview, and I heard the guy before me saying, ‘I worked on the design team for the Tomahawk Missile.’ I looked down at my senior project and said this is not going to fly.” The son of a baggage and mail handler for TWA and American Airlines, Thompson always had a fascination for airplanes and speed in general. He said his father would take him to work with him in the middle of the night, and he was able to climb up into the planes and the cockpit. His parents marveled that at 3 years old, he could tell which airline planes were flying overhead simply by looking at the tail or paint job. When he was 6, he rode six miles along the highway on his bike to get to Dairy Queen just because he wanted an ice cream. And in fifth grade, his mother caught him making Napalm in her kitchen. “I had the library. Now everybody’s got the Internet,” Thompson said.
Major Todd Thompson
Major Todd Thompson The journey of a lifetime Story by Robin Seaton Jefferson Photos by Michael Schlueter
He ran track in high school --- the 400-meter sprint, of course --- drove a 1979 TransAm in high school, and took flying lessons in college. Since there were no jobs in aerospace engineering, Thompson decided to go into the Air Force. But he found out there was a two-year waiting list for Officer Training School, because the school was being relocated from Texas to Alabama. Again, he took the next step. “I figured if I had to lead people, I should know what it’s like. So I went in as an enlisted man,” Thompson explained. He ended up graduating from basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio,
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Texas, in the top 1 percent of his class. He was an Honor Graduate with Honor Flight. That means he was top flight in his squadron. He ran faster, tested higher and scored better on every test required of him in basic training. As an airman first class, he moved on to Chanute Technical Training Center in Rantool, Ill., where he became a missile systems maintenance specialist for the intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). He then moved on to Whiteman AFB near Warrensburg, Mo., where he went to work on the nuclear weapons delivery systems.
21st Space Operations Squadron. Onizuka was named for the astronaut Ellison Onizuka, who died in the Challenger shuttle explosion in 1986. (Onizuka AFS was closed on July 28, 2010, and operations were moved to the new Ellison Onizuka Satellite Operations Facility at Vandenberg AFB.) The Blue Cube housed the Air Force’s operations center for reconnaissance satellites and space missions for decades. Work there was so secretive that in 1968, Vice President Hubert Humphrey was initially denied entry to the facility.
“I worked on the ICBMs before they were deactivated by the START [Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty] between us and Russia,” Thompson said.
At Onizuka, Thompson was a space officer, serving as both chief of Launch Vehicle Operations and chief of Upper State Operations. He launched satellites, provided defense support, and programmed Because there was a drawdown on warheads, and launched shuttles. Thompson again found himself moving on. He was then able to apply to the Air Force “These were $500 million systems. There Officer Training School (OTS), which had was a time I thought, ‘Don’t screw this been relocated to Maxwell AFB up, or you’ll be flipping burgers at Burger in Montgomery, Ala. King.” For all of his trouble, he ended up in one of the most stressful, yet trusted, positions in the U.S. military. Thompson was an ICBM crew commander for a missile combat crew. These crews are teams of highly- trained specialists, manning ICBMs in underground launch control centers. Thompson was assigned to one of these centers in an undisclosed location in Montana behind a blast door where he would sit for 24 to 72 hours at a time and wait for the president’s call. If the commander-in-chief or the United States Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM)—the arm of United States Department of Defense charged with the country’s nuclear arsenal—gives the order, it is the ICBM crew who turns the keys to deliver the warheads. Thompson was on missile alert eight times a month for four years.
During this time, he worked with NASA, which enabled him to get a walk on the International Space Station while it was in the hangar at NASA.
“It was hours of boredom with moments of intense stress,” he admitted.
It was also during this time that Thompson would become flight director for a 100-member United States/United Kingdom joint deployment of a $125 million British military communication satellite called Skynet. It was his job to fly the satellite.
It was during one of these alerts that Thompson casually told a fellow officer that he would like to get a space assignment. As it turned out, that officer was in charge of handing him his next assignment. Thompson was off to the Blue Cube at Onizuka Air Force Station (AFS) in Sunnyvale, Calif. with the 5th and then the
Upon returning from England, where he met with British engineers to discuss orbit plans for their satellites, Thompson was presented the Company
Grade Officer of the Quarter by then Illinois Senator Barack Obama, who had come to the Onizuka AFB the same day to meet the Tuskegee Airmen. As chief of Standardization and Evaluation, Thompson launched a satellite to Mars. As chief space and missile security analyst at Peterson AFB in Colorado Springs, Colo., he would test satellites for information warfare and oversee computer hackers who tested new systems to determine their vulnerability. He was once investigated by the Air Force Office of Special Operations (OSI) for downloading hacker sites. “You have to know what they know,” Thompson said. And Thompson was also the officer who had to inform a general about a certain astronaut who made headlines across the world. “You have to know what’s going on in some positions. It’s something when you have to wake up a four star general Major Todd
continues on page 92
For our city. learn more
MikeKlinghammerForMayor.com
MIKE
KLINGHAMMER M AYO R paid for by Mike Klinghammer for Mayor Sam Mejia, Treasurer
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5
HONEST FAT BURNING TIPS FROM YOUR FRIENDLY, NEIGHBORHOOD
SUPER BOWL CHAMPION
Roland Williams
Story by Roland Williams Photo Courtesy of Roland Williams ARE YOU INTERESTED IN BURNING SOME FAT FAST? Well, look no further. This article was written just for you. During my 8-year career as an NFL player, I was required to be meticulously aware of my weight at all times. Depending on my coach’s opinion on the perfect weight to best do my job on
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offense, I was prescribed a weight range and that was it. In the event I went over my required weight range, the team actually had the right to assess a fine and take money directly from your game check! For us big guys, it was often brutal to stay under the required weight at times. But for me, the threat of actually getting money taken out of your check for being too fat was enough to always keep me on the right side of obesity.
But in retirement, it’s been a different story. After leaving the game because of a career-ending knee injury in 2006, I’ve since written a few books, lived in the Caribbean for a year, do executive performance training and even some sports broadcasting for ESPN, CBS Sports Network. But most notably, I’m a proud single dad of three young AWESOME boys. But in the weight department, I was struggling. Too much sitting,
talking and eating junk. I gained an extra 40 pounds. My clothes stopped fitting. I started feeling tired and depressed. As a professional athlete who knows better, I really got irritated with myself. So one day, I got tired of being sick and tired. I decided that just like the 1999 St. Louis Rams, I was going to fight back. I did it. So can you. The truth is, when it comes to weight loss, you CAN do it. No matter your age, gender, athletic ability or
body type, you CAN loose fat. And fast. But you must follow a winning game plan. Below are my top 5 rules to follow:
RULE #1: DOUBLE IT UP To burn fat fastest, make a habit to workout twice per day. Once in morning and once in evening. While it would ideal if you lifted weights for as least one of these workouts, the only requirement is to simply move your body at least 30 minutes in each. Run, walk, jump, climb, crawl, dance or lift. Your choice. But do something. And for the record, you do not need a gym membership, a trainer or a special plan to be active. For this recipe, you only need a pinch of desire and a scoop of commitment.
RULE #2: THINK LIKE A BIG BABY As a father of 3 little boys, I have had the luxury of being learning some simple rules that really work. A few you really need to know—1. Kiddie sizes are real examples of the type of portions we should eat. Moving forward, cut your portions down whenever your portion is bigger than what the average eatery would provide in a kid’s meal,. 2. Snack time is a good thing. Be sure to spread out your meals during the day.
RULE #3: SLEEP MATTERS Our bodies are complex, high performing machines that would make Lamborghini, Bugatti and Porsche envious. But heck, even the most high-performing vehicles need a break sometimes. So do you. Some experts believe the average human needs between 6-8 hours a sleep each day to be healthy. But the truth is, there is no set standard. Just find the amount of sleep you need to feel refreshed and happy each day. And get that amount.
RULE #4: BE A REAL LIFE “AQUA-MAN” You would be amazed how much healthier you will be by simply getting enough water in your system. Memorize the following formula about water: 0.6 X (YOUR BODY WEIGHT) = OUNCES OF WATER YOU SHOULD DRINK DAILY FOR OPTIMAL HYDRATION. Then try to come as close as you can to drinking the right amount of water each day.
RULE #5: EMBRACE YOUR BASE In all walks of life, teamwork is what truly makes the dream work. To burn fat fast, make a point to identify and celebrate EVERYONE who is a part of your motivation and support system for your fat loss. From your kids to the person at work you are trying to impress, connect with whatever your motivations are and make a point to thank them inside your own mind daily. This especially includes naysayers, “boo-birds” and other detractors who get your fired up. Sometimes, they are the best motivations. For upcoming projects and events visit www.RolandWilliams.com. ¤
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it a good story? Does it make me laugh? Does it make me think, does it creep me out, make me cry or is it something I must instantly share with friends? And, that most-feared criterion of all: “Is it worth my time?” People complain about a 3-hour movie but gleefully binge on countless hours of Breaking Bad or Game of Thrones. Consistency is not a virtue of the fickle viewer.
Story by Lance Tilford Photo by Lance Tilford
THE WAYWARD CRITIC
We are surrounded with screens big and small, mere clicks away from viewing 80 StreetScape Magazine
Finding something worth your time is the challenge. Critics who simply review the latest movies are missing a much larger picture.
The Wayward Critic will canvas the world of movies and movie “experience” in the many forms we now consume it. If you’re almost anything in the world (the things we not going to see the latest new release, or saw it and loved it, there are other films in can’t actually see are the stuff of Google the moviesphere you might also enjoy (and search-term legend). There is exponensome you might avoid like the plague). I’ll tially more crap than ever, but all mediums be snarky and to the point via Facebook have reached new brilliance and stretched (www.facebook.com/waywardcritic) and the forms in which they were created. Twitter (@waywardcritic). More in-depth Access to our movies, TV shows, music and reviews and some very different perspectives will be posted to the books has become far more plentiful and Streetscape blog (www.streetscapemag. immediate. How we consume what types of content has changed because technology com/the-wayward-critic). I’ll recommend movies you’ve never heard of and might allowed it to. We’ll take our wide-screen throw eggs at the egos of some very big action movies on 3D IMAX, thanks, and names out there. Is a movie a must-see on our epic multi-episode stories on our smart TVs, we’ll binge-watch our favorite comedy the big screen, or can you wait for VOD or Netflix? on our tablets and flip the news outlets on our cell phones. The way we watch movies now screams for a different approach to reviewing, so here What has not changed is our insatiable goes. ¤ need for story. Original or reinvented, we
How We Watch Now They say the “Golden Age of Movies” was the 30s and 40s and the “Golden Age of Television” was the 50s, but I think history will rewrite those anointed eras. Now is the golden age of viewing any image, be it still photo, TV show, home video or mega-screen movie. Movies did not destroy radio, television did not eradicate the movies, cable did not wipe out television, and the internet has not (yet) wiped out cable. It all kept growing into a cacophony of brilliance and banality. We have instant access to millions of movies, songs, programs and pictures. You can claim that you have 500 channels with nothing to watch, but really, doesn’t that make you seem just a tad picky?
It wasn’t just technology that changed the game; the movies got even bigger and gave us prequels, sequels and side-quels and concurrent TV shows to create an expanded universe for our stories. Television answered the challenge by becoming more cinematic. State-of-the art, broadcastquality cameras became attainable by consumers, and independent film and video has 24-hour free distribution outlets via YouTube, Vimeo and Facebook. So the viewing experience has simultaneously gone super-sized and shrunk to the 7-second video on Vine. Judging by the number of times per day I see people’s faces buried in their mobile and laptop screens, and the grosses for the latest blockbusters, finding something to watch isn’t a problem.
still lust for what evokes a gut reaction. Is
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Back to
I swear I was just putting the Winter coats and school paperwork away. Yet, here I am again, making plans for another school year, shaking my head - amazed that the days of sunshine and pools are slipping away and my children are, in fact, entering a higher grade.
Being
Organized for Back
to
School
Story by Danielle Smith Photos by Danielle Smith
When did this happen? I’m promising myself I will DEFINITELY be organized this time around. Each year, the routine begins and I feel as though we are just a few steps behind.... we haven’t quite figured out school lunches, I’m worried I missed something on the school supply list and I swear I forgot all about tonight’s baseball practice. But this year, I’m disorganized no more. And I’m dragging you right along with me. Here are five tips to keep you on track as your kids head back to school for yet another year.
Mark that Calendar: I don’t care what you use, but use SOMETHING. Maybe you have a large white board calendar by the garage door or you and your significant other have managed to make good use of an online service like Google Calendars or Cozi Family Calendar (Cozi.com)... the important thing is finding what is right for you. In this calendar, you need to put everything: school events, sport’s schedules, doctor’s appointments, family travels, etc. If you are using an online service, definitely jump ahead and fill in the entire year so next month’s half day at school, parent-teacher conference or weekend soccer tournament won’t come as a surprise. Pull your Papers together: Some schools and school sports
teams require important paperwork...everything from immunization records to proof of doctor’s visits. The very last thing you need is a panicked search for one of these the night before the first day, so check the school’s website to confirm any needs.
Study before you Shop: I know back-to-school shopping can DANIELLE SMITH is a digital correspondent, a lifestyle entrepreneur, a spokesperson, media personality and author. She is the founder of parenting and lifestyle website, ExtraordinaryMommy.com, the author of Mom, Incorporated: A Guide to Business + Baby and most recently Social Media Engagement for Dummies. A California girl, living in St. Louis with her family, she credits her small people, Delaney and Cooper as THE reason she follows her dreams. Danielle Smith | Founder ExtraordinaryMommy: www.extraordinarymommy.com DanielleSmithMedia: www.daniellesmithmedia.com Social Media Engagement for Dummies: Available Now on Amazon.com! Mom Incorporated: A Guide to Business + Baby Available Now on Amazon.com! Digital Correspondent * Speaker * Author * Host * Media Trainer StreetScape Magazine Magazine 82 StreetScape 82
seem alternately exciting and overwhelming, but it is best handled with a bit of advance planning. First of all, what clothes still fit? Which are destined to be passed down, given away or tossed? And which might your kids simply refuse to wear again? When thinking about school supplies, not only are you best served to head to the store with the school’s list in hand, it would be smart to check any arts and crafts areas around the house. With just a small amount of cleaning, I discovered unused erasers, red pens, highlighters, notebooks, folders, pencils and rulers. I can promise you I would have purchased each and every one of them all over again if I simply hadn’t LOOKED to see what we already had. Another quick tip - if you can get away with it - the process is quicker and a touch less expensive if you can go without your kids. (no one is begging for extras or adding anything to your cart!) Additionally, if you are looking for a great way to keep your supplies organized, Mabels Labels is a favorite. (MabelsLabels.com)
Master your mornings: Mornings can easily morph from a slow to chaotic in a matter of seconds if you don’t take the time to plan ahead. As your kids get a little bit older, teach them to take a bit of responsibility for getting ready. Lay clothes out the night before and make sure backpacks are packed and ready to go. Mom and dad can set the table for breakfast, prepare a few snacks for the week and even prepare a portion of the next day’s lunches. Again, if the kids are older, get them involved in each of these steps as well. Ready the Routine early: Don’t wait until the night before school starts to establish a new ‘school year’ bedtime, a regular dinner time and yes, that early morning wake up call. The shock of Summer ending and re-entering school is more than enough for your family without a battle on the first day. Since Summer is typically a time when bedtimes vary .... as do the morning wake-ups, the scheduled meals and full days, it would be smart to begin re-establishing a routine at least a week before your kids have to make their school days a reality once again. What are your best tips for getting back in to the swing of school? Share your thoughts with me on Twitter. You can find me @DanielleSmithTV. ¤
Protect You Child’s Eyes
DR. CHRISTY JENKINS
OVER 20 YEARS OF MEDICAL EXPERIENCE
With the back to school rush upon us, the school supply shopping, orientations, immunizations, meeting the teachers and so forth begin to happen; but what about your child’s eyes? It’s essential to ensure each child can see the chalkboard for the coming year, too! Eye exams begin at about age three by your pediatric physician. If your general physician does not check your child’s eyes – just ask for a quick vision test! They are of no extra cost to you and will greatly help your child succeed this school year. Taking care of your eyes and health is the first step to preventing vision loss from common eye problems. Eating a nutritious diet with foods that increase eye strength and health are a great jumpstart to protecting your vision health: carrots, broccoli, kale, eggs, spinach, salmon, tomatoes, garlic and sweet potatoes all possess vitamins and antioxidants to help protect the blood vessels and retina of your eyes. As a parent there are clear signs to watch for to help notice if your child might see the chalkboard a little less clear this year: squinting, complaints of head pain or ear aches, family history of vision problems, sitting too close to the TV, discolored pupils, consistent tearing or watering of the eyes, or complaints of burning in eyes. Apart from checking for vision clarity, you can prevent vision impairment from injuries that happen each year. 90% of eye injuries are preventable. When discussing the new school year routine with your child, such as bus stop safety, healthy lunch packing, etc., remember to chat about eye safety as well.
Easy ways to avoid vision injuries include: 1. Wear protective eyewear when participating in sporting events. Check with your local sporting goods store to see what’s recommended for the sport your child participates in – go ahead and purchase the recommended safety equipment even if it may see over the top for tball or adolescent sporting events. Prevention is the key to safety. 2. Ensure your child plays with age appropriate toys – keep away from sharp or pointed objects. Consider in your home where tools and sharp objects are kept – typically families store these items in garages or basements – keeping an eye on your child while they play in those areas is always a best practice for safety. 3. Provide your child with sunglasses to keep dust and sun out of contact. Jumpstart your eye healthcare and schedule a free eye assessment with Dr. Jenkins for all school-age children during the month of September. Contact the office today!
Naturo Health Solutions, LLC 1600 Heritage Plaza St. Charles, MO 63303 P: 636.724.5605
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HOLLYWOOD brought us Robot, the soil-testing, electrostatic charge-wielding, talking machine that could produce exact duplicates of small objects for the Robinson family on “Lost in Space” in 1965. “The Jetsons” introduced us to Rosie, the humanoid robot maid and housekeeper that served the animated television family. Then, director James Cameron and Skynet shocked the world with “The Terminator,” the cyborg assassin made famous by Arnold Schwarzenegger, that was sent back to 1984 from the year 2029 to kill its nemesis’ mother, Sarah Connor. Terminator’s successor was a robot like nothing cinema-goers had ever seen up to that point—the shape-shifting robot assassin composed of mimetic polyalloy, or liquid metal. Everyone knows these robots were fictional machines made for television and the big screen, but they were all cut from the same metallic cloth—a dreamer’s imagination. And from each one came more creativity, less limitation, and broader horizons. River City Robots is all about getting kids fired up to imagine—to imagine where technology can take them, what hurdles they can overcome, what they can achieve. Started as a single robotics team at Fort Zumwalt North High School by a couple of students and a retired Boeing engineer named Ralph Lambert, River City Robots has evolved to support multiple teams while inspiring young people to be science and technology leaders.
Team member fine tuning a robot
River City Robots Building a tangible future Story by Robin Seaton Jefferson Photos by Michael Schlueter
LeAnn Heumphreus, whose son Troy Heumphreus, now 26, was one of the originators of River City Robots, said the organization is not just for the nerdy, geeky, special, or rich. “It is for any kid with an interest in working on a team to accomplish great things, while learning and having an awesome time doing it,” she said. Lambert said the team is like a small business with all sorts of parts to play. Members can be fund- raisers, publicity experts, writers, photographers, videographers, artists, and game strategists. Lambert said the process is every bit as gratifying for him as for his students.
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“The applying of theory to a task and actually building something tangible and making it work is very gratifying, especially if your day job is mainly paperwork and being removed from the actual product. Over the years, I have grown to appreciate my involvement even more. Working with kids who are anxious to learn something new and teaching them how to use their hands to build something is very rewarding.”
Team member and instructor select drill bits
While everyone loves a good sporting event, Lambert said these competitions are a whole different ball game. “As opposed to sporting events where your opponents are usually considered your enemies and being friends with them is taboo, at FIRST events, you compete on the field; but off the field, the teams all work with each other to get the best robots on the field,” he said. “If you are having issues with your software or need a part for your robot, all you have to do is make an announcement on the loudspeakers and members of several teams are at your pit immediately with what you need. Also, if you go around the pits of the various teams at an event and ask the kids about their team or their robot, they are more than eager to give you a detailed answer. It really gives you hope for the future and offsets the bad news you are always getting about youngsters on newscasts.” Made up of students primarily from the St. Charles County area, adult professionals
from area companies, as well as parent and teacher mentors, River City Robots has chosen to operate under the guidelines of FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology). FIRST is a national organization, founded in 1989 in Manchester, New Hampshire, that designs accessible, innovative programs that motivate young people from 6 to 18 years old to pursue education
and career opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and math. Just as importantly, FIRST helps in building self-confidence, knowledge, and life skills. FIRST founder Dean Kamen is an inventor, entrepreneur, and advocate for science and technology. FIRST touts its benefits as “a unique melding of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) principles” with the excitement of competition, which makes it the ultimate Sport for the Mind™. “The use of robots was the brainchild of Dean Kamen,” Lambert said. “What attracts us to FIRST and the use of robots is that it allows for the real world, hands-on application of what students should be learning in the classroom.”
The Channel Cat team
Though many FIRST teams are school based, River City Robots is not. LeAnn said the organization can be thought of as the parent of all of the affiliated teams in St. Charles County, however. River City Robots, a 501c3 organization, is comprised mainly of Channel Cats members, the award-winning FIRST Robotics Competition team that Robots
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American Greed
Local talent gains worldwide recognition
American Greed
Story by Kelley Lamm Photos by IMAGEntertainment A “local rocker” is setting the stage on fire with American Greed and getting noticed world-wide. I had the chance to get personal with the talented Lead Singer of American Greed, Gordon Montgomery. American Greed joined celebrities from all branches of the entertainment industry on the red carpet for the 23rd Annual Los Angeles Music Awards (LAMA). Making their third trip to the televised event at The Avalon Theatre in Hollywood, the band collected wins for both Music Video of the Year (“Ride Baby Ride”) and Producer of the Year (Live Video) bringing their total number of LAMA awards to six. American Greed joins dozens of other LAMA luminaries including the likes of Slash, Ratt, Santana, and The Black Eyed Peas just to name a few. This national recognition is just the beginning for the new power rockers. Since joining forces with IMAGEntertainment, the former members of Head East, Chuck Berry and Shooting 86 StreetScape Magazine
Star have captured the attention of international companies. “Because of our relationship with music industry consultant Jack White, we have been able to open the door for American Greed overseas,” boasts founder of IMAGEntertainment, Lisa Kalz. The band is currently working with two booking and distribution agencies for upcoming dates and sales in the Asian market. Plans to increase their exposure in Europe are also in the works. Former Drummer, Mike Mesey from Head East rocks on stage with American Greed with a one-of-a-kind chopper drum set. This custom made set was specifically designed for the drummer by Cutting Edge Cycles Inc. The set features a wide rear tire, custom wheels and leather chopper seat, 10+ foot forks, 6 foot fishtail pipes (equipped to shoot fog and flames) and ape hanger handlebars fitted with titanium Zildjian symbols. This set up is so unique (it’s the only one in the world) that rock icons from Bret Michaels to ZZ Top’s Billy Gibbons
have commented on how cool it is and bike magazines around the country have featured it on their pages and covers. “Now that we’re creating a fan base in Asia and reaching out to European and Scandinavian countries as well, we are ready “to rock the globe!” says now drummer, Mike Mesey.
faith and dynamic voice create a power behind the mic leaving you wanting more and that is just what he is giving us.
Former base guitarist for Shooting Star, Eric Johnson, who is now guitarist for this High Performance band says we have to try harder, push the envelope as crowds are smarter and have so much more content. Eric says American Greed is a powerful, crossover, straight-forward Rock band!
GORDON: Yes, I am the lead singer for a Def Leppard tribute band, “Deff Lepardz”. Def Leppard is an English rock band formed in 1977. Def Leppard’s fourth album Hysteria, released in 1987, topped the U.S. and UK album charts and Hysteria is my favorite song I enjoying singing on stage. It’s very melodic.
American Greed has also released a new CD this year. In addition to containing the amazing talent of decades of musical expertise from the five members, it is produced by five-time Grammy winner Malcolm Springer and features keyboards by The Allman Brothers’ Johnny Neel.
KELLEY: As a lead singer, what band would you say is your top pick and your biggest influence in the music industry?
Their music is being recognized and is paving the way for increasing national and international attention. With experience playing major venues around the country, including the Super Bowl, and having rocked with such artists as Sammy Hagar, Boston, Styx and Cheap Trick, American Greed is ready to put St. Louis and St. Charles on the map in the music world.
KELLEY: You have your own vocal range and style of singing that leaves us breathless so when performing in a Tribute band, do you have to have the ability to change your voice to match the different performers?
Rock ‘n’ Roll is here to stay and American Greed is getting noticed worldwide. I had the chance to get personal on KFAV 99.9FM with Gordon Montgomery, one of the most recognized local singers going global. Gordon’s range and performance are unforgettable. And Gordon isn’t your typical Rock Star. His core values, Christian
KELLEY: Gordon, you are involved with something NEW besides your position as lead singer for American Greed.
GORDON: Steve Walsh from Kansas is a great singer. I grew up with Elton John and appreciated his song writing abilities.
GORDON: Yes, you have to change your voice a little. I think being a singer in the 80’s taught me to use my voice in many ranges, styles and tones to cover different types of music. KELLEY: Are you a natural rock ‘n’ roller or did you actually have singing lessons? American continues on page 94
For INFO and Advertising: (314) 780-0431 September | October 2014
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Strange Donuts Living your life “Strange” Story by Robin Seaton Jefferson Photos by Michael Schlueter “STAY STRANGE.”
(vanilla), and “Latino” (caramel). Then there’s the “Buttahfinger,” the “Gooey Butter,” the “Mexican Hot-Chocolate,” It’s the motto of one of the most unusual, albeit catchy, new late-night hangouts in St. Louis. Technically, it’s in Maplewood. and the “Shanghai Sally.” The “Blueberry Cheesecake” is seriously stuffed with blueberry pie and cream cheese, while the “Maple Strange Donuts opened last year courtesy of fellow entrepreBacon” has icing made of maple syrup and is topped with chopped neurs, Corey Smale and Jason Bochman. bacon. The “Fat Elvis” is injected with banana pudding. And the list “I love donuts. I was very passionate about donuts,” said Smale. goes on and on. “I eat a lot of donuts.” “How did we get our ideas? Well, experimental drugs, late nights with friends,” Smale quipped. “No, we just tried a bunch of stuff The former ad copywriter adds that combining his love for and kept the ones we like.” donuts with the fact that he was looking for a unique business opportunity makes it no surprise that he would go into donuts. Surprisingly, among all the strange flavors, Smale’s personal But in this particular small business venture, it has been the favorite is the made-from-scratch glazed donut. “It’s how you can branding that has caught on. The hype brings them in, but apparently it’s the variety and taste that keeps them coming back— judge the quality of a donut shop. If you can’t make a glazed donut, you’re in trouble. It’s kind of a barometer.” twice a day. Strange Donuts is open from 6 a.m. until 2 p.m. daily and 9 p.m. till midnight, Thursday through Saturday. Smale stops to reflect on his own childhood’s fond memories of So far, Strange Donuts has over 200 varieties, but no menu. donuts. “I remember the smell of the donut shop in Crystal City. I Smale explained they just keep trying new things every day, so would go with my dad when I was a kid. I wish I could go back to the menu is more of a fluid, unwritten list of favorites than a that moment.” fixed document. For instance, there’s the “Fat Steve,” a takeoff on the beloved “Long John.” This one comes in “black” (chocolate), “white” 88 StreetScape Magazine
Strange Donuts also offers a weekly “Stranger,” a collaboration between the donut shop and various restaurants around St. Louis.
Jalapeño ice cream and bacon donut
Interior of Strange Donuts in Maplewood Donuts at Strange Donuts
People of all ages line up for Strange Donuts
Couple dozen to go Donuts at Strange Donuts
Staff members taking orders at Strange Donuts So far they’ve included Slume Beddu, Pi Pizzeria, Sugarfire Smoke House, Quincy Street Bistro, Pastaria, and a recent collaboration with Mai Lee, a Vietnamese restaurant The Mai Pho-King Done (donut) was filled with a pho broth consommé and topped with a sweet and spicy hoisin glaze, fresh herbs, carrots, and peanuts. The shop also offers Paleo and gluten-free donuts. Strange Donuts has its own coffee, known as “Strange Donut Brew” (which can also be purchased at Whole Foods), bottled water, milk, and orange juice, as well as strawberry and chocolate milk. There’s even an online store on their website where you can purchase “Strange Donut” apparel. Smale said Strange Donuts already has its own video game and pod cast, and a reality television show is in the works. “I can’t say
anything yet, but it’s coming in the spring of 2015,” Smale teased. Perhaps the strangest thing about the whole Strange Donuts endeavor, though, is that it isn’t so strange after all. It’s just a couple of entrepreneurial spirits coming together to change the world. “Strange is doing whatever you want with your life and being passionate and creative. It doesn’t really have anything to do with donuts. It never really did.” Strange Donuts is located at 2709 Sutton, Maplewood, MO. For more information, call 314-932-5851 or visit www.StrangeDonuts.com and www.Facebook.com/StrangeDonuts. ¤ September | October 2014
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People You Should Know When this reporter first called Stinger, she was told to “look her up on the Internet.” It’s true. She is all over the Web, but mostly for her keeping of bees and the curative properties of the local honey they produce. She also grows and sells vegetables and flowers. And she does all of this in the heart of St. Louis’ ritzy Clayton area. Who would have thought? Stinger said although she’s been all over the world, she hasn’t traveled in 12 years. “There’s too much shit to do around here,” she said. Nevertheless, Stinger has never been one to sit idle. Back in the 1970s, after being told by superiors at her job as a graphic designer that she had to wait for the salespeople to bring in clients (she was single-handedly outselling the sales force), Stinger struck out on her own. She’s been working for herself ever since. She and Sherman purchased the house on Westmoreland Avenue in Clayton over three decades ago and moved in together. They originally moved there to get into a better school district. “It wasn’t over him being madly in love with me,” she quipped, with not a trace of facetiousness. Mortgage rates were 16 percent, she said. Joy Stringer
Joy Stringer Story by Robin Seaton Jefferson Photos by Michael Schlueter
DON’T LET the house dress and whimsical, pinned-braid updo fool you. Joy Stinger has been around the world. She’s a seasoned graphic designer (from the days when that meant drawing products by hand). She houses two dogs, two cats, numerous fish, two rabbits, an undetermined number of chickens, and some 35 birds. The 79-year-old has lived with her friend, Alan Sherman, for more than 40 years. He’s an industrial designer by day and wanna-be comedian by night. He’s 84 and still works.
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Stinger was 18 when she started her career. She wasn’t schooled in art. It was something she just knew. She took a job with Ralston Purina. Her mother, a bookkeeper and secretary, had had another baby; and it was time for her to move on. Her father was an accountant, gardener, filling station attendant, milk man and a manic depressive. “They used insulin, lithium and electric shock on him,” she said. He escaped treatment by jumping out of the window of Alexian Brothers Hospital and walked home barefooted, she said. Although she and Sherman traveled the world together for years because of his work, she shared that she traveled alone on her last few trips. “He was afraid to go to Russia and China, so
I went without him.” She said she and a friend toured Finland and St. Petersburg, Russia, just after the fall of the Soviet Republic and took food, medical supplies and one-dollar bills to people they met there. Over the years, she has been to New Zealand, all over Europe, Thailand, Singapore and Holland, among other places. “I didn’t get to go to Tibet or India, but this is more fun than traveling,” she said, referring to the greenhouse, art studio, urban farm, and museum filled with a lifetime of souvenirs that is her house. Stinger admits there isn’t much that frightens her after so many years of living, and she rarely watches the news. “What are you going to do about what scares you? When the guy comes to the door, and he’s a robber, then I’ll know.” Of all of the places she’s seen, New Zealand and the United States are her favorites. Stinger said the United States, with Yosemite National Park, Muir Woods National Monument in California, and San Francisco, is just as beautiful as any country that she’s seen. And the glaciers, rocks, mountains and snow drifts on Mount Cook in the Southern Alps of New Zealand “are spectacular.” Stinger said she doesn’t know what makes her honey—labeled Stinger’s Honey &
Beeswax—taste better than most, only that it’s “city honey.” She does claim it’s cured her of cancer three times. A customer of Stinger’s said neither she nor any of her family members have had so much as a cold in the three years she has been buying Stinger’s honey. Stinger gathers honey from her hives three times a year --- in May, July and August. Each bee season can yield up to 2,000 pounds of honey. And Stinger extracts it all by hand. Several slightly varying flavors are produced that she allows patrons to sample before making a choice at farmers’ markets and at her home. Several tastes come through in the honey from the mint, comfrey and hops on her property, in addition to the bush honeysuckle that grows wild in the neighborhood. Nearby linden trees impart a citrus character to the honey, she explained. She also makes, sells and often hand paints candles and ornaments made out of the beeswax from her hives, using elaborate antique molds she has gathered around the world. The beeswax is melted on an antique gas burner, which, she said, has most likely sat in the corner of the basement since the house was built in 1904. Just before the decorating guru, Martha Stewart, went to prison, Stinger said she sent her a handmade, wax Nativity set created from genuine German molds. “She didn’t even have the courtesy to send
a thank you note,” Stinger said. “Her secretary sent it.” Her Portuguese water dogs, Tagus and Fado, follow her everywhere, including in and around her luxury, stone-encased swimming pool-turned-pond. The pond is filled with hundreds of water lilies, as well as goldfish, coy and blue gill. She still gets in it from time to time with her grandkids. Stinger—and yes, ironically, that’s her real name taken from her first husband—said she’s not sure why she does all that she does or even who would take over in her absence. “It beats the hell out of me. I have fun doing it. I had fun being an artist. I had fun making money. But I had fun doing it.” Stinger said her ”intention” is to live to be 125. “I was going to be 150, but I reduced it to 125. I just want to live as long as I can keep doing stuff.” ¤
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MAJOR TODD continued from page 77 to brief him that an astronaut is driving across the country in space diapers. I had to because a member of the U.S. Air Force was being threatened.” It was the case against Capt. Lisa Marie Nowak, a NASA astronaut who the authorities say attacked a rival for another astronaut’s affections at Orlando International Airport after driving more than 950 miles from Houston. She wore the space diapers, Thompson said, so she wouldn’t have to stop to use the facilities on the way. Thompson’s next move was really more for his kids. He wanted them to see Europe before he got out of the service. So he applied for the Officer Military Exchange Program. He was chosen and in 2008 was transferred to Great Britain. In the program you basically work for a foreign military ally to set up satellite contacts, GPS, and space-related support, which includes any communication through satellites. His British title was Space Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance. His U.S. military title was Joint Force Air Component Chief. He was taking an air battle staff course at the Royal AFS in High Wycombe, England, when he was again surprised by what can happen to an ordinary guy from Missouri who just happens to be in the right place at the right time and who’s willing to work hard to get there. ADDS_final.pdf
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“I had been there about three months; and I’m sitting in this
class, and Prince William walks in,” he said. Apparently serving three months in each branch of the Royal military is required for one who is in line to become king of England. Prince William was referred to as Flying Officer Whales. “He just walked in and sat in the empty seat next to mine. His bodyguard was right outside. Everyone else straightened up in their chairs. They didn’t quite know how to handle it. Technically, he was below them in rank. They were all officers. But he was a normal person. He asked me where I was from, and we talked about the states.” Thompson said of all his adventures, from his trips abroad, to the fascinating equipment he has seen, to some of the highest priority and clearance jobs the United States military has to offer, his favorite among them was still flying, whether he ever actually reached the cockpit or not. “I liked flying satellites. It’s a lot of stress. If you make a mistake, it’s big money; but it’s a lot of accomplishment, too. If you make a mistake, you can’t bring the satellite back down. You have to start over. It can be millions to billions of dollars for one satellite. The National Polar Orbiting Operational Weather Satellite System, for example, was valued at $6.8 billion. They had upped it to $9 billion when I left. That was the whole system --- satellite, ground systems, everything. I was in charge of everything.” He said becoming an officer was also a dream realized, and one well worth the wait. “Sixteen of us went in and 10 graduated. I wouldn’t have changed a thing.” ¤
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ROBOTS continued from page 85
worth of equipment.”
was established in 2002, and has members from multiple schools, such as Pattonville and Fort Zumwalt, as well as many home-schooled students. The Channel Cats currently have 10 mentors and 20 students. The age range of students is 14 to 18, while the age range of mentors is 18 and above. Many graduated students stay involved in the team by becoming mentors. The Channel Cats have won at least 32 awards locally and nationally. The team has also been featured on KMOV Channel 4’s Great Day St. Louis and has done spots on Fox 2 and KSDK 5. LeAnn said young minds love robots, “which makes our platform a natural way of achieving our goals.”
In the beginning, and in an effort to encourage new ideas and young entrepreneurs in science and technology, NASA paid for the registration costs for teams all over the United States, LeAnn said. “Missouri was one of the targeted areas. And thank heavens for Boeing, which has provided a lot of grants for the program.”
“Students have a great time learning about teamwork, problem solving, design, electronics, pneumatics, software, and so much more.” This all happens under adult supervision and mentoring from professionals in technical and engineering fields, with real world constraints of money and time. LeAnn, a member of the River City Robots Board of Directors and also its liaison and coordinator with the FIRST Lego League and Junior Lego League activities, said none of the teams would exist without those mentors or the corporate and government funds which support them. “An FRC (First Robotic Competition) team can be very expensive to operate,” she said. “Registration alone is $6,000. With that, you get $12,000
Midwest Machine Tool Training Center, The Boeing Company, Bill Davis, The Employees Community Fund of The Boeing Company, Toyota Bodine, and Nidec Motor Corporation are the River City Robots Gold sponsors. Hundreds of thousands of individuals, corporations, and organizations support and sponsor the FIRST organization nationwide; and over $20 million in college scholarships were awarded in 2014 to FIRST participants. FIRST programs throughout the world include events for 6- to 9-year-olds in the Junior FIRST LEGO League, for 9- to 14-year-olds in the FIRST LEGO League, for middle and high school students in the FIRST Tech Challenge and for 14- to 18-year-olds in the FIRST Robotics Competition. These programs are run by 65,000 mentors and approximately 85,000 volunteers, which supported more than 350,000 students, 32,600 teams, and nearly 30,000 robots this year. In January, FIRST announces what the year’s FIRST Robotics Competition game will be, LeAnn said. Teams then pick up the parts they are allotted. They then have six weeks to make a robot that weighs less than 120 pounds and adheres to all of FIRST’s requirements to play the given game, Teams use the parts given them, plus no more than $4,000 worth of additional
equipment. Competitors are required to build and program their robots from scratch each year. In addition to the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) Team 1094 “The Channel Cats,” River City Robots also sponsors and mentors Junior FIRST LEGO League and FIRST LEGO League teams. Last year these younger contestants were charged with coming up with an innovative solution under the theme of “Natural Disasters.” LeAnn said the winner of the Global Innovation Award was a group of 9-year-olds whose idea was to add a special balloon to a disaster supply kit. “They thought that in a situation where you may not have a vehicle, and the landscape has changed, it would be a good idea for a balloon to be deployed at a refuge or first aid site to let you see where help is,” LeAnn said. “You get this group of kids together and there are no limits, and there’s no right answer. You never know what they will come up with. At that age, they still have a component of magical thinking.” And it’s exactly that magical thinking that leaders in science and technology want to harness. “When you walk into a competition, you’re going to think you see kids playing. But what you are really seeing is kids working together and exchanging ideas to build something better.” For more information on River City Robots, FIRST, and the Channel Cats, visit www.rivercityrobots.org, www.usfirst.org and www.frc1094.org. ¤ American continued from page 87 GORDON: I did not take any singing lessons early on in the 80’s and I found I was singing wrong after tortuous three hour long sets. I took some time off and got some singing lessons and found out what I was doing wrong. Now I am doing a lot of things right! Lessons helped me tremendously. KELLEY: So you are saying it’s COOL for a rock ‘n ‘roller to take singing lessons? GORDON: Absolutely! KELLEY: You have something really cool
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to tell us! You have been recently nominated in the music industry…actually, a really big award that is coming up soon that you are going to be headed to LA! GORDON: Yes, that is the “LA Music Awards” I was nominated for “Rock Vocalist of the Year” with American Greed. The Awards will be in November of 2014 and I am very honored for this nomination. KELLEY: Local St. Charles residents, Mike Mesey, former drummer of Head East and Eric Johnson, former guitarist with Shooting Star also perform with you in American Greed and your tribute band, Deff Lepardz. GORDON: Yes, they do and if you would like more information about me, American Greed and Deff Lepardz, you can visit www.AmericanGreedRocks.com and find our bios, music videos, tour dates and be able to even download our music. Keep listening for more to see what the future brings for Gordon Montgomery. Maybe we will be seeing him on the next season of The Voice, in LA or locally performing on stage right here with us. Watch their winning music video “Ride Baby Ride” on YouTube now. Learn more about the band on their website www.AmericanGreedRocks.com. For bookings and more information contact IMAGEntertainment at 314-406-3418. ¤
Their Journey’s Just Begun D on’t think of them as gone awaytheir jouney’s just begun, life holds so many facetsthis earth is only one.
J
I n L oving M emory of
Delores Sykes, Doris S ykes &
Beverly A . Jones
ust think of them as resting from the sorrows and the tears in a place of warmth and comfort where there are no days and years.
T
hink how theymust be wishing that we could know today how nothing but our sadness can really pass away.
A
nd think of them as living in the hearts of those they’ve touched... for nothing loved is ever lostand they were loved so much.
S
hhhh... they are sleeping now.
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Society
AQUATICA July 26, 2014 StreetScape hosted AQUATICA in support of and to raise awareness of Unlimited Play; a wonderful organization that is focused on building accessible playgrounds, fostering friendships & breaking down barriers. Hundreds of guests enjoyed a glamorous evening of inspired designer fashion, delicious appetizers and signature drinks.
Photos by Michael Schlueter
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September | October 2014
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Society
Lewis & Clark’s:
A Wine & Artisanal Cheese Pairing July 17, 2014 Dan Badock (Owner of Lewis & Clark) chose from a selection of four premium wines from the wine list of Lewis and Clark’s Restaurant. Barrie Lynn - The Cheese Impresario, paired these fine wines with four award–winning artisanal cheeses. Cheers!
Photos by Michael Schlueter
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Inside Back cover 8.25 x 10.875
September - October 2014 Calendar
SEPTEMBER
OCTOBER
7
Trails for Tails Frontier Park • 9am-Noon www.fiveacresanimalshelter.org
5
MO’ Cowbell Marathon, Half Marathon, & 5K www.mocowbellmarathon.com
12-15
Illumination Celebrating 100 years of St. Charles Parks & Recreation Frontier Park www.stcharlesparks.com
12
Sunday Funday North Main • Noon-6pm
18-19
Deutsch Country Days Marthasville www.deutschcountrydays.org
21
Food Trucks in Frontier Frontier Park • 5-8pm www.stcharlesparks.com
17
Music on Main North Main • 5-7:30pm
19-21
MOsaics – Festival for the Arts North Main www.stcharlesmosaics.org
19-20
Augusta’s Harvest Festival www.augusta-chamber.org
26-28 Saint Charles Oktoberfest Frontier Park www.saintcharlesoktoberfest.com
Explore Saint Charles during any season… we offer so many possibilities.
ntry ou C ine W O M c ori
Hi st
Sunday Funday North Main • Noon-6pm
Spen dad ay i n
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CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION AT 636-946-7776 OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE
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