StreetScape Magazine Fall 2010 by TPH Media

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CONTENTS

F E A T U R E S

16 34 41 51

| DAVE GLOVER— Without guts there is no glory | NELLY— Beyond the music | FASHION WEEK IN REVIEW A recap of St. Charles Fashion Week | BEYOND THE BEST Top 50 in business awards

Fall 2010

ON THE COVER |

Music Superstar Nelly talks about giving back.

Photo by Marc Baptiste.

D E P A R T M E N T S

4 9 10 12 18 22 30

34 37 38 46 48 60 62

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BEHIND THE SCENES PUBLISHER & FOUNDER C O M M E N TA RY

TOM HANNEGAN

Fall Changes Welcome to the 17th edition of Streetscape Magazine. As always, we invite you to come as our reader and stay as our friend.

StreetScape Magazine and Local PR Firm Form Strategic Alliance StreetScape Magazine and Xanadu Public Relations announced a multi-year strategic partnership designed to benefit both businesses by serving their clients’ public relations and advertising needs. The partnership brings together a rapidly growing public relations firm and a well-known St. Charles magazine that offers prime advertising space. Streetscape Magazine was a client of Xanadu Public Relations for the 2nd Annual St. Charles Fashion Week held at the Ameristar Casino Resort Spa in August. The fourday event was a huge success, thanks to the great team at Streetscape and a wellexecuted public relations campaign by Xanadu. “This is a win-win situation and we’re excited about the possibilities,” said Cillah Hall, founder of Xanadu Public Relations. “Streetscape is a solid magazine and a very happy client of mine, so why not work together to offer our clients more bang for their buck with advertising and PR? It just made sense.” Xanadu Public Relations shares the same businesses methodologies that StreetScape Magazine adheres to. Both businesses share the same core beliefs for their clients. “Our clients are our partners. Their success is most important to us and our relations with them are long term,” said Tom Hannegan, publisher of StreetScape Magazine. “There are some great opportunities to work with either the PR firm or the magazine, but when married together, the possibilities are endless.” The businesses will operate under their individual names, but will be housed in the same office building on historic Main Street St. Charles. “As a previous client of Xanadu, I know what the company brings to the table. I am very cautious on recommendations and business collaborations but feel confident in recommending and working with Xanadu. The customization of PR and advertising that we bring to our clients individually or collectively will far exceed any other similar service,” said Hannegan. Streetscape Magazine has also named Hall its new editor-in-chief. Prior to founding Xanadu, Hall was a news producer at KSDK-Channel 5, and an assignment editor/ web producer at KPLR 11. Her journalism background is an added benefit to the magazine as it continues to thrive in St. Charles, St. Charles County, parts of St. Louis and online.

Be thankful! Be passionate. Life is not only good. It is GREAT!

Tom, Co-Owner of Hannegan Real Estate & Construction, LLC holds a master’s degree from Lindenwood University. Hannegan shares his passion for real estate, community volunteering, and his appreciation of St. Charles in Street Scape magazine.

EDITOR IN CHIEF Cillah Hall Cillah Hall is the owner of Xanadu Public Relations. Prior to founding Xanadu, Cillah was a morning news producer at KSDKChannel 5. You can contact her at 636-259-9059 or via e-mail, chall@xanadupr.com.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS ROBIN SEATON JEFFERSON Robin has been a writer/journalist for more than 18 years working in print and electronic media. She holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from UM–St. Louis, with minors in writing and criminal justice. ANN HAZELWOOD Ann Hazelwood is an accomplished quilt author, historian, and appraiser with 9 books to her credit. Her speciality is Missouri travel. www.booksonthings.com

MARY ELLEN RENAUD Mary Ellen is a seasoned Public Relations & Marketing professional. You can contact her at Universal B.P.R. (cell) 314-660-1975 renaud7207@centurytel.net.

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER MICHAEL SCHLUETER Michael is a freelance photographer based in St. Peters. For over twentyfive years he has produced images for advertising agencies, corporations, and magazines. In addition to his commercial work, Michael also teaches and leads photography workshops as well as creates fine art photographs. View his work and learn more at www.schlueterphoto.com. 636.926.8181

EVENT PLANNER DONNA COSTELLIA

Thomas P. Hannegan Publisher and Founder Streetscape Magazine

Volume 5, Issue 3 • FALL 2010

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TPH Media 223 North Main Street, St. Charles, Missouri 63301 PHONE 636-949-2973, FAX 1-866-231-6159 WWW.STREETSCAPEMAG.COM

Donna was a tourism professional for 25 years as the Assistant Director of the St. Charles CVB. She is now an independent meeting & event planner. Contact Donna by email at donna@streetscapemag.com or 314341-2790 for your next event.

BEHIND THE SCENES ADVISORY BOARD Deborah Alessi Mary Banmiller Susan Berthold Nadine Boon Dianne Burkemper Erica Butler Sue Casseau Jody Cox Ann Dempsey Barbara Drant Cindy Eisenbeis Sally Faith Lorna Frahm Bill Goellner Sheryl Guffey Mary Lou Hannegan Grace Harmon Ann Hazelwood Chris Hoffman Jason Hughes Jan Kast Mike Klinghammer Martha Kooyumjian Caryn Lloyd Jeremy Malensky

Nancy Matheny Denice McKeown Bob Millstone Sandy Mohrmann Suzanne Matyiko Maurice Newberry Craig Norden Grace Nichols Kim Paris Toekie Purler Kathy Robertson Marc Rousseau Rocco Russo Richard Sacks Keith Schneider Bob Schuette Teri Seiler Joyce Shaw Kelley Scheidegger-Barbee Karen Vehlewald Aleece Vogt Brian Watkins Brian Wies Mary West Gail Zumwalt

ADVERTISING JUDY PETERS As Director of Sales, Judy Peters uses her many years of PR and marketing experience to consult with businesses and organizations on the many ways StreetScape Magazine may serve their marketing needs. Contact her at 636448-2074 or judy@streetscapemag.com. TERRY BELL Contact him at 636-936-3666 terrybell2010@sbcglobal.net. www.eriosristorante.com

KATE SANTELLANO Fashion Week Event Producer Please contact her for information and opportunities for 2011 Fashion Week.She can be reached at 314 -249-2454 or kdsantell@yahoo.com. Smoke-Free • Free Birthday Dinner

TIMOTHY DUFFETT Contact him at 636-399-8089 timothyduffett@ymail.com.

DISTRIBUTION Call Tom Hannegan at 636-949-2973 or via email at tom@streetscapemag.com Distributed to: Chesterfield, Cottleville, Dardenne Prairie, Maryland Heights, Lake St. Louis, St. Charles, St. Peters, New Town, O’Fallon, Weldon Spring, Wentzville, Wright City and Warrenton.

Any reproduction of Street Scape magazine or its contents requires publisher’s prior written consent. Street Scape magazine aims to ensure that information is accurate and correct at all times but cannot accept responsibility for mistakes. Street Scape magazine reserves the right to refuse any advertisement and assumes no responsibility for submitted materials. Unsolicited material must include a self-addressed stamped envelope. © 2010 TPH Media. All Rights Reserved.

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HEALTH & FITNESS

The Fitness Edge Story by Kathleen T. Brady Photo by Michael Schlueter

equipment availability at the appointment time. Fitness programs can be customized for general strength, health maintenance, medical therapy, sports training, pregnancy, youth fitness and cardiovascular targeting. A professional workout plan begins with a comprehensive fitness evaluation, and the results are used to develop a safe and effective program to help you attain fitness goals. And there are no club memberships or initiation fees. The Fitness Edge has garnered a great amount of recognition for its training center. It spent two years on the “Top 100 Trainers in America” list in Men’s Health Magazine, four years on Alive Magazine’s “Hot List,” two years on St. Louis Magazine’s “A List” and an appearance on the St. Louis Business Journal’s “40 Under 40” list. Andy Kobe, manager, certified personal trainer and competetive body builder at The Fitness Edge, said it is all about creating an “experience.” The staff makes a point to get to know all clients by name. And there is an old-fashioned telephone booth at the entrance of the facility, where clients enter, close the door behind them and emerge better, stronger, faster. “You can go in as Clark Kent and come out like Superman,” Kobe said. “But it will take work.”

Andy Kobe

hen it comes to the best of the best, The Fitness EdgeSt. Louis could easily bring home the gold. And that’s probably because it focuses on being the best at one thing – personal training.

Founded by Michael J. Jaudes in 1984, The Fitness Edge employs 30 of the best certified personal trainers in the industry to provide high-quality personal training that is safe and effective for all fitness levels. The executive-style 12,000 square-foot, state-of-the-art facility in Creve Coeur provides luxurious locker rooms with complimentary towels and toiletries as well as babysitting, concierge and porter services for the ultimate personal-training experience. The Fitness Edge uses only the latest and greatest fitness equipment because it does not purchase from one vendor. The facility offers a wide variety of upright and recumbent bikes, Stairmasters, Stepmills, Versa Climbers and treadmills. The Fitness Edge experience is customized to the client. All personal-training sessions are by appointment only to ensure 6|STREET SCAPE MAGAZINE

In addition to personal training, The Fitness Edge oﬀers a wide variety of specialty massages to complete the workout experience in a tranquil, sound-proof room wrapped in bamboo wallpaper. And as good corporate citizen, The Fitness Edge supports the National Kidney Foundation and the American Heart Association. In 2008, it received the Lifesaver Community Award from the American Red Cross. For more information, visit www.ﬁtnessedge-stl.com or call 314-993-3343. ■

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STATE YOUR BUSINESS

Solutions Beaudoin, Haverstick & Associates Story by Amy Armour Photo by Michael Schlueter

s a daily cup of coffee from Starbuck’s really in the budget? How many times can the family go out to dinner each month, and still save money for a new boat? How much money needs to be saved to help put the kids through college?

Certified Financial Planner John Beaudoin said individuals need to determine long term financial goals in order to achieve those goals—whether it’s a new boat, sending the kids to college or saving for retirement. “We’re all tightening our belts and our budgets,” said Beaudoin. “You really have to assess what’s important to you financially and then compare that to your discretionary spending.” Beaudoin, Haverstick & Associates offers its clients holistic, comprehensive financial planning. The company is a franchise of Ameriprise and boasts more than 50 years of experience between the two partners John Beaudoin and Michael Haverstick. The financial planning company utilizes the Ameriprise process: Dream. Plan. Track. First, clients dream, determining what is important financially to them. Then the financial company puts together a plan, which is tailored to meet an individual’s needs. And third, the company tracks the progress each year, making tweaks as necessary to achieve the end goal.

Company benefits are a resource that many employees may not be aware of. Beaudoin said many companies offer company savings plans and flexible spending accounts. “Take advantage of company benefits,” said Beaudoin. “A lot of St. Louis-based companies offer retirement savings plans and health savings accounts…some even offer in-house estate planning.” Health savings accounts allow an employee to contribute nontaxed funds from a paycheck into an account that can be used to pay for medical extras that are not covered, like deductibles or copays. Beaudoin said another way to save a few dollars each month is to look at insurance deductibles. Raising the deductible on home or auto insurance can lower the monthly payments. Then take a look at financial statements to determine monthly income and monthly fixed costs like the mortgage, insurance, utilities and car payments. “After all of the bills are earmarked, what’s left?” said Beaudoin. “Then it becomes all about choices…the difficult decisions are where are my discretionary funds (going).” Beaudoin said individuals really need to assess what is important. “Our goal is to help them identify their goals and resources, and help them with a set of solutions,” said Beaudoin. “Once you know what the solutions are, you can help them take action on a solution and track the progress.” ■

Beaudoin said the company works predominantly with individuals, who usually find them after a life event—like retirement, marriage or death in the family. “Many of the clients tell us they wish they would have done this 15 years ago because (they) would have been so much further along,” said Beaudoin, who is a certified financial planner. Whether the goal is to buy a house, think about retirement or find the best place to manage your mutual plan, Beaudoin, Haverstick & Associates can help. The first step in financial planning is to determine what is the most important financially, said Beaudoin. “Are you planning for a house? Do you have to put a couple of kids through college? Are you planning for retirement?” said Beaudoin. “It’s so critical to understand what’s important to us financially.” Once the end goal has been determined, the financial company will work on what resources an individual has to achieve this financial goal. Beaudoin said resources could include company benefits, insurance, retirement savings and cash reserves. STREET SCAPE MAGAZINE |9

HEALTH WATCH

Neuromuscular Dentistry & Migraines Story courtesy of Greg McPherson DDS

etting rid of life-altering migraines may be as simple as a visit to a dentist in New Town.

“Headaches, especially migraine headaches, are particularly common in women,” said Dr. Greg McPherson. “Through correct measurements and treatments, many symptoms can in fact be alleviated.” McPherson is a specially trained dentist in Neuromuscular and cosmetic proﬁciency. Neuromuscular dentistry assesses the muscles, nerves and hard and soft tissues.

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McPherson said repeatedly tightening and clamping the jaw muscles can create a strain or pressure in the face, head or neck. “It is all about getting to the core of the issue and assuring that the muscles are happily in their intended state,” said McPherson. Neuromuscular dentistry removes the stress placed on the system, and McPherson has noticed improvements in his migraine headache patients. “If I get a migraine, I have to stop my life, cancel plans, stop everything, go to a dark room that’s soundproof and lay my head on a soft pillow,” said Debbi Harris, of Creve Coeur. “Without a migraine, my head, my face, my eyes, my teeth - everything is much better and I want to be a part of the rest of the world.”

To help his migraine patients, McPherson “finds a bite” with a key neuromuscular process called Transcutaneous Electrical Neuromuscular Stimulation. This relaxes the muscles, while sophisticated computer equipment verifies it and the orthotic is fabricated in its ideal position. “My migraine headaches were so intense, they affected my sense of smell and taste and especially my vision. I couldn’t drive. It was just too dangerous,” said Rebecca Klinginsmith, of St. Charles. “With non-surgical Neuromuscular methods, I deal with the occasional tension headache, but nothing as debilitating as a migraine.” Whether a sufferer requires a custom mouth device to help correctly align and relax muscles in the face or another noninvasive treatment, Dr. McPherson can help. Dr. McPherson has practiced dentistry since 2001. His office offers the latest and most comprehensive dental services for the entire family. For more information, gregmcphersondds.com. ■

call

493-1960

Dr. Greg McPherson

visit

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FEATURED ARTISTS

Getting Serious about Painting Self-taught artist, Ken Farris

the scenes he would like to paint. He took the photos and stored them in a fireproof box until the time came to paint. The time came in 2002. Since retiring eight years ago, Farris has painted nearly every day. Nature and landscapes are his favorite subjects to paint. “I really enjoy this earth we’re living on and I paint a lot of trees, lakes and scenery,” said Farris. Farris is currently completing a painting of a cowboy driving in a herd of cattle. In addition to nature and the outdoors, Farris

Ken Farris

Story by Amy Armour Photos by Michael Schlueter

rom the time he was a small child Ken Farris liked to draw and paint.

But he didn’t start to live his dream as an artist until he retired from the corporate world in 2002. The landscape painter has been painting and sketching since he was a preschooler. He looked forward to Sunday nights when he could watch his favorite television show “Disney’s Wonderful World of Color.” Having an older sister who was an artist inspired his need to create. “I was always tagging along with my sister,” said Farris. “Painting was something I just had to do.” However, painting was put on the back burner for decades. The artist studied mechanical design in college. Following graduation, Farris had a demanding career as mechanical designer, which required many hours of overtime and little time to spare for painting. “I only painted once every 10 years,” said Farris, who was self-taught until 2003. But he did take lots of photographs in the last 45 years, to remember 12 | S T R E E T S C A P E M A G A Z I N E

also paints buildings. Three years ago, Farris developed another line of paintings that has captured the hearts of pet lovers. Farris was volunteering at the Missouri Alliance for Animal Legislation Booth at the “Paws at the Park” event in 2007 when a new type of subject caught his eye. “I would sketch the dogs to attract people to the booth, and I ended up turning them into paintings,” said Farris. “A percentage of the proceeds went to help the alliance.” So far, Farris has painted about 70 dog portraits. “I’ve been very fortunate because most of the pet owners have told me that I really caught their pet’s spirit,” said Farris. “It makes me feel good.” Farris has many of his paintings displayed at Framations Custom Framing & Art Gallery located at 218 North Main Street in St. Charles. “I’ve been with Framations (forever). I love them. They treat their artists and customers right,” said Farris. Farris’ paintings can also be seen at the Parkside Retirement Community in St. Charles. His favorite piece is a painting of a stream in Yosemite he created about five years ago. The painting includes some of his favorite things:

a mountain landscape, a bubbling stream and beautiful pine trees. And the artistry must run in the family because until 2003, Farris had no formal training. Farris’ sister Janet Halerson is an artist, as well as his aunt and three cousins. He was self-taught before taking classes seven years ago with local artist Jerry Thomas. For young artists breaking into the industry, Farris suggests getting serious. “Try and paint everyday. Get very serious about educating yourself in art, whether its school or an artist to study under,” said Farris. “There’s so much to learn about art. The more you do the better you get.” ■

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with

Ann Hazelwood

What do you like most about the fall season? Donna Herndon | Retired teacher I love caramel apples, Halloween, and carving pumpkins. Martha Short | Teacher I love the colors in the fabrics and I like the introduction of Christmas fabric Cheri Treadway | Hair Stylist Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s apple picking time in our family. We go to Eckertâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s orchard and pick enough apples to make a pie and cobbler. Ken David | Retired Fire-Fighter I love the colors, but hat the thought of the coming winter. Jane Ponath | Crafter I like the cool weather, the leaves turning colors and the sound of the leaves when you drive over them on country roads. John Hazelwood | Retired Industrial Salesman I like to see the foliage in the wine country. I like enjoying the view from Sugar Creek Winery. Joy Lopez | Retired from Customer Service The cooler weather makes me feel like kicking up my heels! Bring it on! Ron Kuschel | Retired from Boeing I like going to all the high school football games!

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YOU CAUGHT OUR EYE

Without guts there is no glory Dave Glover

Story by Kathleen T. Brady Photo by Michael Schlueter

for a client at KFTK-FM, Glover was approached by program producers who were interested in starting a legal call-in show.

ave Glover is a radio legend. During his10-year reign on the region’s No. 1 afternoon radio show – The Dave Glover Show on 97.1 FM – Glover has garnered more than 16 awards from various agencies, praising him for his personality, humor and talent.

Glover had never spoken on air before, but that didn’t stop him. “I had no clue what I was doing. My very first time on the air was in drive time in a top 20 market. There were a million ways for it to fail. But I guess I found the one way to make it work.”

When asked what it takes to be the best, Glover said, “I think it’s a combination of courage and self awareness.”

The legal show lived a short life because “I was a very bad attorney,” Glover said. “I didn’t have a whole lot of legal knowledge, … so I would just kind of make stuff up. … They should have just called it ‘Legal Malpractice with Dave Glover.’”

Glover said we all know what is really best for us deep down inside, but it takes courage to go after your dreams. “I’ve always known that I wanted to be a comedian or a comedy writer,” Glover said. “But when you grow up in the house of my Dad, who was a World War II Navy vet and a construction worker, that’s not a real job. And I had enough fear and respect for him that I didn’t do it. I didn’t have the balls to just say, ‘You know what Dad, you’re living your life; I’m going to live mine; I’m going to go do it.” Glover grew up in the small town of South Roxana, Ill., population 600. He went to undergraduate school at Southern Illinois University on an athlete scholarship. But that’s where Glover’s plans ended and his haphazard career began. One night at a bar, he was dared to take the entrance exam into a law school program cold, but surprisingly, he did well. He subsequently enrolled and graduated from Washington University School of Law in 1990. “I had no intention of going to law school. I was going to go play drums I think in Memphis in a studio. And my girlfriend at the time, her and her parents … convinced me to go to law school. She was gone a year later, and I was stuck in law school,” Glover said. For the next 10 years, Glover worked as general practice attorney for a few law firms before going out as an independent. In 2000, while conducting some business 16 | S T R E E T S C A P E M A G A Z I N E

Sensing the show was going to be discontinued, Glover threw caution to the wind and performed a comedy routine on what he thought was his last day on the air. Much to his amazement, the show producers loved it. And in six months, The Dave Glover Show hit big time. “If I had to do it over again, I would go straight into show business; I wouldn’t go to college. And for some people, that’s the right thing to do; for others it would be a disaster,” he said. Glover speaks to high school and college students many times throughout the year, and his inspirational message is always the same: be yourself. “Never be a bad impersonation of someone who is successful,” he

said. “Find your voice. … And have the guts to do that. Even if people tell you, ‘Oh that’s not going to work.’ Maybe it won’t, but you will have a much better future doing that than doing an impersonation of someone else.” Glover moved from Kirkwood to Dardenne Prairie in 2006 and lives there with wife, Maureen, 15-year-old son Nick and 5-year-old daughter Phoebe. When asked what he thinks his kids will be when they grow up, Glover said, “I’m pretty sure my daughter is either going to be a serial killer or the ruler of the world. She’s a little me – full of piss and vinegar.” Being around Dad a little longer, Nick developed a broader perspective of life, Glover explained. Paraphrasing Nick, Glover said, “’You know Dad, I’m just going to take from your example. You worked really hard to become a lawyer. You spent 10 years in it, and you hated it, and you were miserable. And then you just followed your passion and did something that you like, and now you’re successful. I’m going to do the same thing. I don’t know what I like to do yet, but I think I have time to figure it out.’” “And I think that’s fantastic,” Glover concluded. So do we, Mr. Glover. So do we. ■

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A LA CARTE

Grandma’s Cookies Still Baking on Main Street

Story by Anne Koch Photo by Michael Schlueter

id you know that the St. Charles tradition of Grandma’s Cookies started as a dress shop? No kidding. Charlotte (Grandma) Thompson had a dress shop on Main Street and lived above the shop. She started giving children cookies in order to entertain and occupy them while their mothers shopped. As word spread about the treats, more and more patrons came in and asked about the cookies. So, Grandma started selling cookies out of the window on the side of the shop! Soon, she decided that she preferred baking to dresses and Grandma’s Cookies officially opened for business in 1976, when the cookies were 25 cents.

“Grandma was a grandmother to everyone, related by blood or not,” said Theresa Rubio, the new entrepreneur/granddaughter of Grandma’s Cookies. Grandma was good to everyone in the community, often feeding some of the homeless people whom she knew by name with free cookies and coffee. Grandma’s Cookies has been a tradition of downtown St. Charles since its inception. In the late 1990s, Grandma closed the shop on Main Street. Early in 2000, though, Grandma’s staff started baking again for special occasions and deliveries. Just because the store wasn’t on Main Street, did not mean that the people of St. Charles had to go without their cookies. The delectable treats were sold at special St. Charles celebrations, like the Festival of the Little Hills, the Fourth of July festivities, and Christmas Traditions at the Grandma’s Cookies booth. In 2010, when the chance to move back in to its original location on South Main Street presented itself, Theresa Rubio knew that she had to jump on this opportunity. Now, a wife and mother of four, Theresa was raised on Grandma’s Cookies and called Charlotte “Grandma”. As a matter of fact, she worked there when she was young for $15 a day. She remembers working at the register, but mostly she recalls washing (and scrubbing, and scouring) the dishes. “Grandma was a perfectionist when it came to the dishes.” Every dish, pan, and cookie sheet had to be washed thoroughly. Back then, Theresa thought it was tedious labor, but now understands the importance of Grandma’s high standards. Theresa is pleased that the operation is still a family affair, something she knows that Grandma would be proud of. Theresa grew up in a house in St. Charles where the kitchen was often used as bakery, since her mother, Connie Sebacher was an amazing cake baker, who is happy to help her daughter in and out of the shop. Now, Isabelle, Theresa’s 9-year-old daughter is following in her mother’s footsteps. She is happy to be spending her summer at the cash register and packing up cookies. On evenings and weekends, you will find Theresa’s brothers, Brian and Greg, manning the counter at the store or answering phones, emails, and Facebook 18 | S T R E E T S C A P E M A G A Z I N E

Theresa Rubio

inquiries. (That’s quite a task with almost 2,000 Facebook Friends!) That’s right; Grandma’s Cookies is keeping up with the times. Don’t let the name fool you, either! Grandma’s is not just for cookies anymore. You can find a delightful array of delicious cupcakes (chocolate, yellow, and strawberry). If a cookie isn’t enough to satisfy your sweet tooth, try it a la mode – One or two scoops of ice cream create the perfect treat! In addition to the conventional favorites like chocolate chip, peanut butter, snickerdoodle, and oatmeal raisin (to name a few), Grandma’s has a Cookie of the Month and seasonal cookies, too. But not to worry, the original secret cookie recipes have not changed. The closely-guarded, time-honored recipes have been kept within the Grandma’s Cookies family, along with the passion for baking and serving every mouth-watering cookie with the kindness and warmth Grandma bestowed on her family and

friends. They still believe (as the T-Shirts will tell you) “That a balanced diet is a cookie in each hand.” The only thing that has changed is that the cookies are now 60 cents. A large portrait of the dress-maker turned cookie-baker extraordinaire, but most importantly – Grandma Charlotte Thompson, who passed away on May 8, 2008, hangs in the newly re-opened Grandma’s Cookies and watches proudly as her family and friends carry on the tradition of Grandma’s Cookies serving the St. Charles community once again. Grandma’s Cookies is located at 401 South Main Street, St. Charles, MO 63301 and is open Wednesday through Sunday 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. They’re open late until 9:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays. They also make platters, gift baskets, and decorative boxes for every occasion. ■

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YOU CAUGHT OUR EYE

Communication Jo Lena Johnson

Story by Amy Armour Photo provided by Jo Lena Johnson

ommunication is the key to any good relationship. And author Jo Lena Johnson is on a mission to teach effective communication skills. She is the author of four books geared to help people communicate more effectively.

Johnson became an author because she wanted to reach and teach more people. She describes her books as “guidebooks to help people live better lives.” “The books are handbooks and tools to help people get the things they truly want,” said Johnson. In addition, she’s the owner of Absolute Good Marketing & Events, a training and management company she started in 1998. Johnson said her books teach readers practical things that can make a difference in communication, at both work and home. “I started writing books because I have a lot to share with people,” said Johnson. “My mission is to help people become better communicators and leaders.” She travels the country to do just that. Johnson has written, “If you Really want be Successful, Get Connected!” with her co-author Donna Gamache. She coauthored a book with Dr. Lee Roy Jefferson designed as a practical guide for Christian living, entitled “If You Really want to Live, Be Extraordinary.” Johnson is also trying to reach youth with her two books, “A Pocketful of Sunshine” and “A Light Is Born! Seven Ways to Show Your Brilliance.” Johnson said the number one cause of conflict is “a lack of communication.” And that conflict typically happens due to three issues: gender differences, generational differences, or personality style differences. “A lot of the time conflict is not personal,” said Johnson. “If I recognize that my style is different than your style then I can do something different.” Johnson said most managers have no leadership training at all. “Einstein said when you do some thing over and over it’s insanity,” said Johnson. “How many of us do things over and over and expect to have different results?” Johnson said to ask yourself, “Do you really know what you want?” “If you want to buy a car, you research it. You don’t just go to the lot and buy a car,” said Johnson. “Do you know what you really want? When you do, you can be very clear about what you want.”

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Johnson believes that the reason most people are not successful is because they either don’t know what they want or they don’t know how to get what they want. In her book, “If You want to be Successful, Get Connected,” she talks about getting connected to mentors who can help you come up with a plan to achieve your goals. The book includes insight from dozens of entrepreneurs who share their experiences. The book is designed for any person considering starting a business, is already in a business, or is struggling in business. Johnson also started a publishing company last year, called Mission Possible Press. The publishing company requires its books to teach, inform and inspire action. “I listened to people in their pain and I watched people struggle,” said Johnson. “Most things we really want are possible with faith, prayer, hard work and dedication.” For more information, visit www.jolenajohnson.com or www.absolutegood.com. ■

Jo Lena Johnson

Unique Out of this World Experiences

EDUCATION

“ Vo y a g e t o M a r s ” “Rendezvous with a Comet” “Return to the Moon” a r e t w o - h o u r, f a r - o u t a d v e n t u r e p r o g r a m s p r o v i d e d b y t h e C h a l l e n g e r L e a r n i n g C e n t e r- S t . L o u i s .

Story by Dianne Garrison and Tom Hannegan Photos by Michael Schlueter

he Challenger Learning Center-St. Louis is part of the challenger center for space science education, an international Notfor-Profit Education Organization founded in April 1986 by the families of the astronauts tragically lost during the challenger space shuttle mission. The St. Louis location at 205 Brotherton Lane, St. Louis, Missouri is part of a network of more than 50 Challenger Learning Centers located throughout the world.

Simulated space missions are the challenger learning center’s core program. Participants are assigned various jobs, which are similar to those of NASA astronauts, scientists and engineers. After a brief orientation, one half of the group “LAUNCHES” into space where they perform various activities and experiments. The other half of the group works in mission control to monitor and guide the astronauts’ activities to successfully complete their mission. Astronauts on the rendezvous with a comet mission are charged with sending a probe to intercept and collect new data from comet ‘Encke.’ They must be prepared for unexpected and highly unpredictable objects in the solar system that may come their way.

families. With this in mind, “Rendezvous with a Comet” will be a unique auction “sign up party” item at the Boys & Girls Club of St. Charles County held on February 12, 2011. (Listen up Grandparents an ideal item to share with your teenage grandchildren) For more information see the Boys and Girls Club new website at www.bgc-stc.org.

A visit to the Challenger Learning Center is an ideal field trip for school children and a wonderful generational share experience for

For more information/reservations for the The Challenger Learning Center visit info@clcstlouis.org; www.clcstlouis.org

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EDUCATION

GAP1 Coaching for College Story by Amy Armour

ix out of 10 jobs in the US require a post-secondary degree, according to the Lumina Foundation. Currently, the US has a post-secondary degree rate of only about 40 percent.

Two Missouri Mayors, one a Republican and one a Democrat, want to see that number rise…and quickly. Wentzville Mayor Paul Lambi (R) and St. Louis Mayor Francis Slay (D) agree that politics don’t play a part in the plan to educate America. “President Obama set a goal and we have to put our politics aside. It’s not about Republican, Democrat or Independent,” said Ed Watkins, premier authority on career development and workforce readiness. “This can only be solved at the community level.” The two Missouri mayors have teamed up with Watkins to provide a comprehensive plan called Graduate America Priority 1 (GAP 1) to increase the number of post-secondary degrees in America—and the plan starts here. “We are the first to begin implementing a comprehensive plan to significantly increase the number of post-secondary degrees,” said Watkins. According to US Census American Community Survey 2006-2008, about 40,000,000 American adults have some college and no degree and only 69,000,000 adults have completed an associate degree. Forty-percent of America—25 and above—has yet to complete an associate and above degree.

“This is a serious problem in terms of being competitive with other countries in the world. To remain economically competitive the United States of America has to reverse its course,” said Watkins. Watkins said a workforce is tied directly to education. “You can’t have an uneducated population and expect to have a productive workforce,” said Watkins. “This is the first generation that is going to be less educated than their parents.” Since January, GAP 1 has recruited, trained and deployed more than 200 post-secondary career coaches to help guide and mentor students. And the coaching begins as early as kindergarten. Fifty career coaches were assigned to 50 kindergarten families in the St. Louis public school system last year. “We’re planting the hope in them that they can go to college,” said Watkins. As part of the program, these children have a scholarship started for them that can be accessed after high school graduation. “When they graduate from high school, we’ll get them started,” said Watkins. But part of the problem is getting the students through high school first. In January, GAP 1 had 150 volunteer coaches deployed to two St. Louis city schools with some of the worst performance rates. Career coaches met with students and the students met with attendance monitors. “The voluntary (coach) can come along side anywhere they want in

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Paul Lambi

a student’s life. Somewhere between 9th grade and college graduation there is a big loss,” said Lambi. “Our (coach) can help in two ways: by being a mentor at that time and helping a student complete graduation or going to the bucket (to) adults 25 plus with some college and no degree and helping them complete their associates, technical or bachelor degree.” Attendance for students taking part in the program rose from 59 percent to 70 percent, along with a significant increase in academic performance. “We feel confident that with a full year under our belt, we can make such an improvement in our school system,” said Watkins. Watkins said according to the US Census there are about 500,000 people in St. Louis city and county that have some post-secondary education, but no degree. GAP 1 will focus on coaching this targeted group to complete college by providing resources and information that can help them. “People are drowning in information. They don’t know where to start. We help point them in the right direction to meet their needs,” said Lambi. Whether it’s helping students fill out financial aid forms, or sending them directly to resources that can help, GAP 1 will help students wade through the enormous amount of information available. “We become a resource. Our company is an information broker. We get all the information and supply it to the post secondary career coach who has a toolbox (of information) to share (with students),” said Lambi. In order to reach the goal to have 60 percent of St. Louisans’ with post-secondary degrees, 1,852 degrees will have to be earned per year for the next 10 years. “It’s important for Americans to realize how far behind we’ve fallen,” said Lambi. The Wentzville goal is to increase the number of postsecondary degrees by 105 per year for the next 15 years. “The most important thing is to make sure your people are educated to do the jobs ahead,” said Watkins. In order to meet the goals, GAP 1 needs more volunteers. The goal for St. Louis is to recruit 1,000 volunteer College and Career Coaches, one for every two children or adults, and the Wentzville goal is 50. “It’s a war on ignorance. If we don’t change that post secondary degrees we’re going to be left in the dust,” said Lambi. “We need to be creating life-long learners.” To volunteer, or for more information, call Watkins at 314-330-7078. ■

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A LA CARTE YOU CAUGHT OUR EYE

Hope for Honduras Brigade brings medical care to remote area Story by Robin Seaton Jefferson

medical mission team in St. Louis is changing the lives of poor people in a remote area of Honduras. Dr. Mario Castro said he was humbled by the need he saw in Honduras. Castro is part of a team of physicians, nurses and other medical workers who have for 15 years traveled to the country annually to bring medical care to people who otherwise would go untreated.

It started with a group of St. Louis physicians who had a connection with a Catholic bishop there. Bishop Maurus Muldoon invited them to visit Julticalpa, Honduras to provide specialty medical care to the underdeveloped region. Julticalpa sits in the province of Olancho, most of which is rural. “There is not a lot of medical care available,” Castro said, “especially specialty medical care.” And until this year the nearest hospital was located in Tegulcigalpa—a three to four hour drive from Julticalpa. “Most people can not afford it or do not have the transportation anyway.” Castro and his team provide respiratory and allergy care. They call themselves the Allergy and Asthma Brigade. The brigade is sponsored by the International Medical Assistance Foundation and the Catholic Medical Association. Castro is a professor of medicine and pediatrics and a physician at the Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine at Washington University School of Medicine. The team has for 15 years traveled to a small hospital in Julticalpa called San Francisco Hospital. The government-supported facility has only two operating rooms and little other space. But on its latest trip to Honduras in March of this year, the mission started working from a new hospital. A joint venture between the Catholic church, fundraisers in St. Louis and the Honduran government has

Dr. Castro’s Allergy and Asthma Brigade, a team of 15, travels to Honduras every year, providing medical treatment, supplies, and support to thousands of impoverished Hondurans, who would otherwise be without medical help.

produced Hospital Hermano Pedro, a hospital the mission team helped to build. Dedicated April 13, the $6 million, 100-bed facility is fully equipped with an emergency room, operating rooms and a labor and delivery area. Washington University and St. Louis University medical workers and others have also provided medical equipment to furnish and stock the new hospital. Hospital Sisters Mission Outreach in Springfield, IL, provides refurbished medical equipment to any hospital in the world in need. When SSM St. Joseph Hospital in Kirkwood closed its doors, hospital administration allowed Castro’s team to root through the equipment and donate much of it to the Honduran people. Beds, stretchers, baby warmers, exam tables, lights, sterilizers and many other pieces of equipment were sent to the Hospital Sisters to be cleaned, organized and packed. Eight semi trailers carried over $100,000 worth of equipment to a port in Miami where the cargo was then sent to Catacamas, Honduras. Seven physicians, seven nurses and a respiratory therapist saw some 1,200 patients in five days at the new hospital in March. The team provided the people there with enough medicine to last them a year. Other specialists who went were a neonatologist and a pulmonologist from St. Louis Children’s Hospital. The Brigade is the only medical team providing help to people in this region of Honduras suffering from respiratory or allergy conditions, said Castro. “Respiratory disease affects many of the population due to dust and smoke from massive cutting of forests, cooking over open fires as well as general poverty and poor nutrition.”

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“One of the reasons children there have such a high mortality rate is that they have nothing to support them in any kind of respiratory distress,” Castro said. Two years ago the team took a bubble CPAP or a simple respirator for newborns with them on the trip. The first day they were there, seven babies were born. Of those, two were in respiratory distress. “This small inexpensive intervention that is made with tools you can buy at a hardware store—tubing, oxygen, a bottle of sterile water—made a huge difference in saving lives.” Castro said he helps the Hondurans because they have so little available to them. “Even the uninsured in the United States still have access to emergency care. That basic necessity is not even available to the poor there. It is very sobering to see what is available there. Most of the medicines available to them are medicines we were using 30 years ago.” He also feels obliged to help others because of the help he received many years ago. Castro was born in Cuba and immigrated with his family to Kansas City, Missouri over 40 years ago. “We had no money. The church in Kansas City helped us get a new start in life. I was always appreciative and wanted to pay back for all those benefits and luxuries. I wanted to help make life a little more comfortable for someone else.” This mission group provides the only medical help and hope for the people of this area of Honduras. If you would like to impact the lives of thousands and be a part of this mission by donating items or money, please visit www.iMedAF.org. Your donation will directly impact the lives of impoverished Hondurans by providing them care that they would otherwise be without… and save lives. For information on the Brigade or to make a donation, visit www.iMedAF.org. ■

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Historic Missouri Wine Country

Visiting with a group? Consider one of the new guided bus tours, which are offered Wednesday through Friday for groups of 10 or more. For as little as $25 per person, you can forget about the driving and simply enjoy the day.

Perhaps best known for its wineries, Historic Missouri Wine Country is the perfect place to relax. Share a bottle of award-winning wine as you enjoy the picturesque surroundings from a hilltop terrace. Or cozy up indoors when the weather is less than ideal.

Choose from the Ladies Day Out shopping tour, the Into the Past historical tour, or the Taste of Missouri Wine winery tour. All tours include round-trip transportation from a central location of your choice. Custom tours are also available. To schedule a guided tour, call (314) 223-3423.

all is the perfect time of year to travel scenic, two-lane roads into the southwest corner of St. Charles County. Upon arrival, you’ll be in a place where history, nature, art, and awardwinning wine all come together to create a treasured destination -Historic Missouri Wine Country.

But there’s more to Historic Missouri Wine Country than just wine. You’ll also find quaint towns in which to linger and explore. Augusta, Defiance, New Melle, and Femme Osage each have their own unique story as well as things to do and see. Galleries run by local artisans, boutiques, antique shops, and nurseries await you. Dine in one-of-a-kind restaurants serving everything from burgers to gourmet. Or immerse yourself in warm Wine Country hospitality by staying at one of the region’s bed & breakfast inns.

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Whatever your pleasure, you’ll find it all and more in Historic Missouri Wine Country. And however you choose to spend your time there, it’s sure to be a memorable experience. ■ Greater Saint Charles Convention & Visitors Bureau 230 South Main Street St. Charles, MO 63301 636-946-7776 www.historicstcharles.com

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TRAVEL

A MISSOURI MILE with Ann Hazelwood

A DAY TRIP TO REMEMBER Photos by Joel H Watkins IV

erry County resides in the center of the Mississippi River Hills. These counties include; Perry, Jefferson, St. Genevieve, Scott, Cape Girardeau, and St. Francois.

take you to Farrar, Missouri. Country homes and churches display beautiful vegetable gardens along the roadside. Driving down a seep hill, you will find the former Eggers General Store, which is now an operating B&B.

Starting in Perryville, (off Interstate 55) you’ll want to travel it’s main artery Hwy. 61 south for some distance till you turn left on road P. The curvy, well maintained black top road will take you to Crosstown, Missouri. This is a very tiny town that claims three active churches with gravesites in the rear of the property.

At the bottom of the hill, turn and go back up the road to C (making a left) to travel a few miles to Brazeau, Missouri, named after Brazeau Creek. This is where to stop your car to take a break. This charming town appears to be a movie set, only this is the real deal. A one-room Bank, Blacksmith Shop, Tea room, Museum, Presbyterian Church, Dance Hall, and the newly opened Hemman’s Winery. This small family-owned winery specializes in sweet wines that you can taste as you enjoy their side outdoor picnic and patio area. Music is played there on the weekends.

In the heart of Crosstown, you’ll want to turn on road C that will

Continuing on road C, a few miles further is Frohna, Missouri.

My suggested tour will give you a taste of tiny towns nestled in the lush hills that resemble Germany.

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This is where you can visit the Saxon Memorial Village. Look for the sign that leads you a quarter mile off of C. This charming village includes log cabins, small museum, an old school house, gardens, and a baking house that has a working brick out-door oven. Once a month its fired up for people to bake their own bread, or have it baked for them. Tours are continually given, but if you attend the Fall Saxon Memorial Festival in October, it all comes alive with authentic crafters, bakers and home-made apple butter and breads. For those who grew up with the German food and culture, it is not to be missed. After we are back on the road, you want to make a left turn on Road A to Altenburg, Missouri. This town of 309 people actively thrive with their businesses and schools. It is also the home of the Lutheran Heritage Center and Museum. It’s located on the grounds of the 1839 Concordia Seminary, which was the first Lutheran College and it’s 1867 church. Free tours are given and also includes the Christiane Loebor Cabin. Continuing west on A, within two miles you will see the Tower Rock Winery, known for it’s award winning wines, attractive vistas, and it’s family-owned hospitality. Weekend music is also a plus. Three miles towards the river is the well known Tower Rock, that sits 90 feet above the Mississippi River. It was founded in 1673, but became famous when Lewis and Clark reported it in their journals. Turn around to get back on Road A, which takes you back by Altenburg and Frohna. Uniontown , Missouri is your next destination. Past the charming antique shop on the road, which used to be their thriving general store and Post Office, is where you will make a right on road F. After a short winding ride, it will bring you to Apple Creek, Missouri. This is where you will see the historic St. Joseph Catholic. It is massive in size and is next to the Waterfall Shrine, showcased in layers of rock with flowing water from an opening cave. This is a good photo opportunity, if you brought your camera. You are now close to Interstate 55, which can take you any direction to your home. There are many discoveries in this part of the state. Having grown up in this region, I have fond memories of it’s genuine people and beautiful landscapes. I hope you enjoy this day trip as much as I did sharing it with you! ■ S T R E E T S C A P E M A G A Z I N E | 31

STATE YOUR BUSINESS

Story by Amy Armour

andy Basye worked for a flooring company for 13 years before he decided to go out on his own. In 1993, Basye made the leap into entrepreneurship and opened his own store. In 1994, Basye joined the Abbey Carpet Buying Group allowing the company to offer lower prices on quality flooring.

By entering the buying group, Basye’s Abbey Carpet & Floor joins with 800 other Abbey Carpet stores which allow the store to get great prices from the mills and manufacturers. “And then we can pass the savings along to our customers,” said Basye Customers at Basye’s Abbey Carpet & Floor can expect superior quality and expert salespeople. “We’re totally different than big box stores,” said Basye.“We meet the customers in the store and educate the consumer. We personally measure all of our own jobs.”

Basye Flooring Whether it’s a residence or a commercial building, Basye’s Abbey Carpet & Floor can help. The full-service professional flooring company will sell and install the flooring for its customers. All installers are employees of Basye, with no outside contractors. And to ensure the utmost perfection—the installers measure their own project. All employees at Basye’s Abbey Carpet & Floor complete ongoing training to stay informed on all of the products. “I’m very proud of my (sales associates). They are always very knowledgeable and courteous,” said Basye. The store moved to its new location in St. Charles at 4091 N. St. Peters Parkway on August 16. The store is now across Highway 94 from its original location. “We’re very excited about the new store,” said Basye.

“Purchasing flooring can be stressful, but we try and take that stress out of the process,” said Basye. Basye’s Abbey Carpet & Floor has an extensive array of flooring products to meet the needs of its customers. From carpet and hardwood to porcelain and ceramic tile to sheet vinyl and laminate, the flooring store has it all.

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So come check out the brand new Basye’s Abbey Carpet & Floor location with its new showroom featuring its multitude of attractive, high-quality flooring products. For more information please call 636-939-3666 or visit saintcharles.abbeycarpet.com. ■

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FEATURED MUSIC ARTIST

Nelly, beyond the music someone’s life and he stressed that it’s up to each individual to take advantage of any opportunities to be the best. “You have to have the will to succeed, know where you come from and strive to achieve,” said Nelly. Over the past three years, the superstar has brought a taste of Hollywood to St. Louis. He hosts the Black and White Ball, a holiday gala that’s one of the hottest tickets in town and a fundraiser for Lindenwood scholarships. Regular folks get to rub shoulders with local and national celebrities for one spectacular night. Past guests have included Bill Dewitt, president of the St. Louis Cardinals, Larry Connors and Vickie Newton who share the anchor desk at KMOVNews 4, Hall of Famer Ozzie Smith and music star Janet Jackson. It’s always a memorable event, but Nelly reminds everyone that the night is also about making a difference in someone’s life.

Grammy Award-winning artist Nelly with 2010-2011 Black and White Ball Scholarship recipients Cristina Catarinicchia and Ammi Bell during the scholarship presentation at Lindenwood University. The event was sponsored by members of the university Black Student Union, Plaza Motors, and Nelly's record label, Derrty Ent. Story by Cillah Hall Editor-in-Chief

elly is back in the spotlight and ready to once again show the world why he’s referred to as one of the biggest stars of the new millennium. It’s pretty cool to know that someone with such mega-star status once lived in Lake St. Louis and continues to support St. Charles. There’s more to Nelly than just music. He’s a savvy businessman with investments that put his estimated net worth at more than $225 million.

Despite his success, Nelly remains loyal to his hometown of St. Louis and gives back to the community through his two non-profits. The “4Sho4 Kids” organization works to improve the lives of children born with developmental disabilities like Down syndrome and children born addicted to drugs. Perhaps the one closest to his heart is “Jes Us for Jackie”, a campaign he co-founded in 2003 with his sister who was diagnosed with leukemia. Jackie Donahue lost her battle with leukemia two years later at 31 years old, but her legacy lives on through the campaign which educates people about the disease and how they can help by simply joining a bone marrow registry. Lindenwood also holds a special place in Nelly’s heart. He supports the university through its scholarship program. “I chose Lindenwood because I liked what they were trying to do with outreach and how they were making an effort to help minority students,” said Nelly. Each year, two students are presented with four-year full tuition scholarships. First–year incoming students who meet admission requirements and demonstrate academic success as well as leadership and financial need can apply. Only two simple words from scholarship recipients have kept Nelly going. “Thank You,” he said. “That’s all it is.” His contributions to Lindenwood come from a deep desire to change the course of 34 | S T R E E T S C A P E M A G A Z I N E

Success is not easy and one of the things that Nelly learned over the years is that you can’t make everybody happy. He says those people who focus on the negative need to work on their own personal growth. “That’s why they’re not successful. They’re too busy blaming other people,” said Nelly. “It’s always easy to blame someone else, but you have to evaluate yourself.” It’s been more than 10 years since Nelly’s first solo album ‘Country Grammar ‘put him on the map when it debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard top 40. The years have been filled with many great moments. He has sold more than 20 million records and won two Grammys. But he has also faced some big disappointments, like the lackluster sales of his last album. Nelly has definitely grown and evolved as a person over the years. “Things have changed, but you have to have the same values,” said Nelly. With six solo albums under his belt, Nelly remains just as relevant as he was a decade ago. His latest single ‘Just a Dream’ is a big radio hit and he’s getting ready to release an album with the St. Lunatics as well as another solo album titled 5.0. “It’s a great album. People who support Nelly will love it.” The title emerged from Nelly’s collaboration with Ford to use a custom made 2011 Ford Mustang G.T. with the iconic 5.0 engine as an album cover. Working up a good sweat in the gym helps Nelly stay focused and he’s sharing secrets to his great abs with fans in a new fitness video called Celebrity Sweat. The video is part of a series that will showcase the workout routines of professional athletes and entertainers. As if that’s not enough to keep anyone busy, Nelly is expanding Apple Bottoms, one of his international clothing brands that’s been featured on America’s Next Top Model, The Ellen Show and on Oprah. Tidbits about Nelly Not bad for a kid from U-City Birth name: Cornell Haynes Jr. and definitely ‘beyond the best’. “I feel good about making it and watching my dreams come true. I just want to continuously grow,” said Nelly. ■

Horoscope: Scorpio Children: Two Record Label: Universal

photo by Marc Baptiste

Nelly's Apple Bottoms brand was featured on the runway at StreetScape Magazineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s - St. Charles Fashion Week held at the Ameristar's breathtaking Event Lawn. Entertainment from the night was Seviin Li, a member of Nelly's record label, Derrty Entertainment. Models by West Model and Talent Management.

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Jim Lloyd, CPA Julie Pryor Caryn Lloyd Watson, CPA Sue Miller

40 Portwest Court • St. Charles, MO 63303

636.946.3411

“Work Hard — Play Hard”

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B i g D a d d y ’s Ta x i d e r m y S t u d i o & Tr a d i n g C o . Story by Kathleen T. Brady Photos by Michael Schlueter

hat started out as a hobby turned into a dream come true for Jim Miller when he opened up Big Daddy’s Taxidermy Studio & Trading Co. in Frenchtown last year. Jim practiced the art of taxidermy for friends while he worked as a local contractor. He was known as Big Daddy to his buddies, and the name followed him to the shop that he owns with lifelong friend and business partner, Jerry Nicholson.

The layout for the 1,400-square-foot store at 901 N. Second Street was inspired by the couple’s love for animals and the outdoors. Almost all the decorations are for sale. The wood floors and red brick walls give a warm back drop to the lodge cabin-style furniture, bronzes, paintings and preserved animal skins displayed throughout the store. One wall is painted with a beautiful mural of a flock of ducks flying over a marsh at sunset. When you walk in, you might be greeted by a couple of furry employees, Otis and Sara, Jim’s Labrador retrievers. If you don’t see them in person, you can’t miss their mural on the window, where they are sitting with their sunglasses on.

SEASONAL HUNT

Big Daddy’s taxidermy business has been growing month by month, Jerry explained. The fall hunting season is especially busy, she said. Many hunters and fishermen immortalize their trophies with Jim. He has included instructions on the company’s Web site (bigdaddystaxidermy.com) on how to cut and care for the hides in the field in order to preserve them for mounting. Jim has worked on both large and small creatures. You will see foxes, bobcats, largemouth Bass, quail and gazelle at the store. The largest creature was an Alaskan moose that almost didn’t fit through the double doors of the shop, and the smallest was a moth. In addition to taxidermy, the trading company carries carved ducks, bronzes, rustic furniture, lamps and wildlife art – just about anything you need to decorate your home or office with a rustic, outdoor theme. It also sells western jewelry, knives, buckles and watches. If you haven’t seen it yet, check it out. For more information, call 636-724-7300. ■ Jim Miller and Jerry Nicholson

STATE YOUR BUSINESS

Corporate Group Story by Amy Armour

orporate Group Inc. doesn’t want to be the biggest firm in commercial real estate management and leasing—just the best.

Corporate Group Inc. currently manages and owns 1.6 million square feet of commercial, retail and residential space throughout St. Charles County, Warrenton and Lake of the Ozarks. Chairman of the Board and founder of the firm, Jerry E. Scheidegger said the company specializes in commercial, retail, office and apartment space in the three counties. St. Louis is not included in its market. “Our concern is doing a good job. I don’t want to go to St. Louis to be the biggest…we want to be the best in our own niche,” said Scheidegger. Scheidegger started the company in 1972 as Midwest Property Management. He changed the name in 1998 to Corporate Group Inc. when his twin daughters Kim S. York and Kelley S. Barbee joined the firm as partners.

With 1.6 million square feet of property space, the family-owned company offers its professional tenants a vast variety of options and choices. From a few hundred square feet in office space to thousands of square feet in retail or light industrial space, Corporate Group is devoted to finding its clients the perfect place to succeed in business. “We are dedicated to helping professional people attain the proper space in St. Charles, Warren County or Lake of the Ozarks,” said Scheidegger. “We want to help you find the right location and we want you to grow with us.” Clients leasing space from Corporate Group range from lawyers and doctors to CPA firms and banks. “It’s a mix of professional people from St. Charles County,” said Scheidegger. Executive Parc, located at Highway 94 and Page Avenue extension, features a wide variety of spaces for a multitude of professions. The 90,000 square foot retail and office center houses everything from attorneys to web companies to salons to painters. Some of its tenants include: CDKWeb.com, Mueller Prost PC, Black Orchid Salon, Newberry Group, Eldercare Management, Bremen Bank & Trust, Larry W. Boschert and, of course, Corporate Group. Executive Parc has all sizes of space available in the park—from 247 square feet all the way to 7,000 square feet and everything in between. Despite a slower economy, Corporate Group continues to grow. Scheidegger said the locally owned company attained 100,000 square feet of commercial space in 2009 and the company is looking to expand again in 2010. “Our goal is not to be the biggest, but the best,” said Scheidegger. Corporate Group, Inc. is headquartered at 2500 Old Hwy 94 South, Suite 200, in St. Charles. For more information about the company, visit www.corporategrp.com. ■

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NOW OPEN

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Fashion Week in Review Story by Kate Santellano

ights! Camera! Action! StreetScape Magazine’s 2nd Annual Greater St. Charles Fashion Week had all the glitz and glam to draw over 2,000 people! The four day extravaganza, held at Ameristar Casino Resort and Spa combined the latest fashion trends, boutique shopping and an opportunity to help local charities.

Headline performers such as R & B Singer Bradd Young American Idol Season 4 contestant Aloha Mischeaux and Seviin Li, a member of Nelly's Derrty Entertainment family, graced the stages and brought down the house! St. Charles County Humane Society held a silent auction on the jeans, lingerie and swimsuit evening, and according to Kelly Backes, Interim Executive Director for the St. Charles Humane Society, the event allowed their organization to educate the community on the fact that they are the only NO-KILL shelter in the area. “I believe this will help people make the decision to adopt a canine or feline friend. We depend solely on private donations, so an event like fashion week may help get one more dog adopted and also bring in new volunteers.” Other charities for this year’s event included Habitat for Humanity of St. Charles County, Bridgeway Behavioral Health, and Oasis Food and Crisis Center. Just as Paul Poiret is remembered for freeing women from corsets, St. Charles area designers have set the stage for emerging trends. Nicole Moss of MOss Boutique showcased her original designes on both the vintage theme night and at the much anticipated designer night. Being a designer and a boutique owner made her involvement in the show unique. Selling everything from designer jeans to alterations to redesigning old items, Moss brought sophistication and edgy vintage trends to new levels. Designers such as Betty Chibwe, impressed the audience, combining pure elegant couture with an African touch. “I try and bring out the feminine side of women,” said Chibwe. Mission accomplished. For folks not familiar with Fashion Week, it is a community event that has garnered support from mayors across St. Charles County because of its focus on the community. “Fashion Week was a great way to partner with the local community by helping to stimulate retail sales in St. Charles County and provide exposure and fundraising opportunities for charity,” said Kim Carpenter, Ameristar’s director of hotel and conference center sales. “The week was exciting, energetic and a high-quality cutting edge event that showcased our property and the St. Charles community.” Plans for the 3rd Annual Greater St. Charles Fashion Week are well underway. Just as this years event wowed attendee’s, next year is full of unique surprises sure to please everyone. Mark your calendars! ■

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SHOPPING

Von Maur Story by Amy Armour

amilies looking for a premier shopping experience need only to visit Lake Saint Louis. The Meadows at Lake Saint Louis welcomed a brand new store to the state of Missouri on September 18. The Meadows VON MAUR location will mark the first store in Missouri and the 25th location in the Midwest.

“We are excited about our growth and look forward to joining a great mix of retailers at The Meadows. Working with developers focused on providing customers with a unique, quality shopping experience is a natural partnership for us,” said Jim von Maur, president. “We’re pleased to bring our long-standing commitment to service and quality merchandise to the residents of the St. Louis area.” The two-story, 124,000 square foot upscale department store will cater to shopping needs of the entire family.

Shoppers in VON MAUR can expect superior customer service. “For over 130 years we’ve been known for customer service. We find the friendliest people who truly enjoy helping customers,” said Davis. “Our sales associates provide personalized service to their customers, getting to know their needs and style preferences. VON MAUR also offers customers some unique—and free—extras.

“We offer women’s apparel in our Better Sportswear, Moderate, Women’s and Petites departments, in addition to women’s contemporary apparel in our Juniors and Expressions departments,” said Amy Davis, advertising manager for VON MAUR. “Our men’s selection includes Men’s Sportswear and our contemporary Concepts department, as well as Men’s Clothing/Suiting and Furnishings departments. Children’s apparel, accessories and giftables are found in our infants, boys and girls area.”

“Services like an interest free charge account, free gift wrap and free delivery within the United States make our customers shopping convenient,” said Davis.

Bridget Geiss, marketing director of The Meadows, said the anchor brings not only more than 150 new jobs to the area, but new shoppers to the area as well.

VON MAUR is open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday-Saturday; and from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. For more information, visit www.vonmaur.com.

VON MAUR carries a wide selection of top designers such as Coach, Burberry, 7 For All Mankind in addition to unique designers not typically found in department stores like Nic & Zoe and Louben. For the children, VON MAUR will also carry designers such as Pumpkin Patch, Isobella & Chloe and Rare Editions.

In addition to VON MAUR, The Meadows also welcomes Maurice's, a contemporary women's fashion store to complement the current selection of contemporary fashion retail shops. The store is currently under construction and is scheduled to open this fall.

Fine gifts and seasonal gifts are available in the gift department to help shoppers complete the ever-expanding holiday shopping list. And the store is complete with an unbelievable shoe selection for the family. “A fabulous selection of shoes can be found in Women’s, Men’s and Children’s Shoes. We also offer all of the women’s accessory areas –Handbags, Hosiery, Cosmetics, Jewelry and Intimate Apparel,” said Davis. 46 | S T R E E T S C A P E M A G A Z I N E

Shoppers will also be treated to live piano music and lots of comfortable seating located throughout the store for shoppers to take a break in between power shopping. Extra large aisles and spacious restrooms add to the shopping experience.

The Meadows will also welcome Soma Intimates which will open by the holidays this year. Soma, a division of Chico's, offers a full line of women's intimates apparel and relaxation wear. By the holidays of 2010, The Meadows will be home to 35 unique stores and boutiques, five of which opened this year. Some of the stores include Cache, Ann Taylor Loft, Banana Republic, Jos. A. Bank, Charming Charlie and Claire’s.

"The growing selection of stores in a unique outdoor shopping environment is what makes The Meadows the area's premier shopping destination," said Geiss. "We have a great mix of stores creating a fun shopping experience the family can enjoy together." The upcoming fall and holiday season at The Meadows bring a host of family-friendly events. In October, families can check out the Lake Saint Louis Fire Safety Day on the 9th and Monsters on The Meadows Fall Festival on the 30th. Spooky Movie Night will also be held on the 30th featuring Disney's Hocus Pocus in the Clock Tower Plaza.

Complimentary hot chocolate for shoppers, horse-drawn carriage rides, holiday carolers and thousands of Christmas lights are just a few of the holiday events that make the season bright at The Meadows. Details on all of these events and more can be found on The Meadows website at www.themeadowsatlsl.com. “We have felt very welcomed by the community. We appreciate the lovely comments and excitement area residents have shared with us and we look forward…to returning that welcome,” said Davis. ■

And it’s not just the shopping that draws families to the Meadows during the holidays.

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THE SALON GUY

Six Tips for a Fabulous Fall

By Cary O’Brien The Salon Guy

s the seasons change their looks so should we. Let’s explore a few simple ideas to make this Fall Fabulous.

1. Add Low Lights. Are you a medium to light blonde? Now is the perfect time to add some low lights. This will add depth and texture to your hair and the darker richer colors in your wardrobe will look great. 2. Tone it Down. Very light blondes might want to tone it down just a bit. You can stay blonde but ask your stylist for a color wash (known as a toner) to give you a new beige or strawberry blonde look. Why? As we lose our summer color in our skin, we could begin to look washed out if our hair is too light. 3. Add Some Curls. Texture in hair can also come from simply adding some big loose curls. I suggest hot rollers or big curling irons. Start in the crown and add the larger rollers first, then finish with the smaller ones. If using a curling iron also start in the crown and pin or clip each curl to keep it out of the way for the next. 4. Time to Re-Hydrate. Summer can be hard on our hair. Too much sunshine, chlorine in the pools, and our Missouri humidity can lead some to flat iron much too often. First visit your favorite salon and get an intense salon conditioning treatment. This will jump start the repair efforts of the hair. Next, take home a DEEP CONDITIONER. I emphasize this because most people use a daily conditioning treatment and rarely use the take home treatment that can be used 1 – 3 times a week. 5. Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize. We know our hair needs moisture but let’s not forget about our skin. Plan an exfoliation treatment soon! This will remove the summer dryness as well as prepare the skin to take the moisturizers better. These two simple steps keep young skin looking young and help fade small lines and

wrinkles on mature skin. I suggest a proper consultation from a licensed Esthetician. They can evaluate your skin and give you a plan to keep it glowing. Ever thought about a glycolic peel treatment? Now is the perfect time to start. First get that consultation (by the way the consultation should be free.) 6. New Season, New Makeup. You don’t need to throw out everything in the bag. How about we just add a few new richer colors. Try a Fall/winter combination pallet. Smokey and sexy is never going out of style. Get a makeup lesson to learn a new trick. (should be free) Look for bolder lips. They’re in style this season and they look great. Every tip and idea above is very simple and easy to put into your Fabulous for Fall repertoire. I will always recommend you visit your favorite salon professional for a personalized consultation. Remember, consultations should always be FREE. If you like what you hear then give the new service a try, if not try another professional. Ask the Salon Guy, Cary O’Brien ■

SCHOOL OF FASHION DESIGN

he Lindenwood University School of Fashion Design recently hosted a design competition for its students. Participants were given nine hours to create an original garment using only muslin and basic structural materials. Designers were not allowed to use any pre-made patterns or pattern making instructions. The top three designers were voted on by the school and Maggie Holper was chosen as the winner. Maggie graduated from the program in May and will be returning to Lindenwood as a graduate student. Congratulations Maggie!

For information on Lindenwoodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s School of Fashion Design, visit www.lindenwood.edu/arts/fashion.cfm. â&#x2013;

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October 21, 2010 at The Columns Banquet Center

Master of Ceremonies Deborah Alessi

Keynote Speaker Dave Glover

Elite Sponsors UMB Bank

Gold Sponsor Gardenview Care Center

A Special Thank You to Baue Funeral Home for providing flowers for the evening.

Presented by

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Scott Alberson

John Antes

Dee Bax

Shane Bates

Gershman Mortgage

Barnes Jewish Hospital (St. Peters)

Dutchman Realty

Georgia Chiropractic

Peter Bezemes

Robert Blackwell

Jody Blanton

Nadine Boon

Lindenwood University

Blackwell and Associates Attorneys

Blanton Construction

Coldwell Banker Commercial

Norma Boozer

Jack Borgmeyer

Dr. Mark Boschert

Nick Brockmeyer

PNC Bank

Grappa Grill

Renaissance Plastic Surgery

Platinum Sports and Entertainment Management

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Dale Brown

Kim Carpenter

Gaspare Calvaruso

Rob Ciampoli

Botz Deal & Co.

Ameristar Casino

SSM St. Joseph Health Center

Andrews Academy

Cindy Clark

Dr. Joe Clever

Lorna Frahm

Brenda Fraser

Emmaus Homes

St. Charles Eye Center

Frahm Law Firm

Gala Force LLC

Dan Fuller

Dianne Garrison

Tim Hager

Bill Hennessy

EPC, Inc.

SantoLubes

Newstime

Mayor – City of O’Fallon

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Kim Henson

Jerry Hollingsworth

Karen Kirk

Jill Kluesner

Circle of Marketing

St. Charles Insurance Agency St. Peters Ward 3 Alderman

Boys and Girls Club

St. Charles County Ambulance District

Jeantette Koechner

Joe Koening

Kelley Lamm

Charlotte Litle

Boys and Girls Club

Creative Anvil

Deliciously Alive

Gardenview Care Center

Rhona Lococo

Kasey McKee

Nicole Moss

Julie Mueller

Lococo Bed and Breakfast

St. Charles Community College

MOss Original Designs

Lindenwood University

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Scott Newcomer Jakeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on Main

Joe Parisi Lindenwood University

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Drew Rector

Matthew Renaud

Pat Ross

Ruth Scheidegger

SSM St. Joseph Hospital West

Renaud Co.

Lindenwood University

Humane Society of St. Charles County

Dorothy Sloan

Sharon Stott

Carolyn Thomas

Steve Thomas

Baue Funeral Home

Siteman Cancer Center

Thomas and Associates

Thomas Suit Homes

Jani Torrence

Ann Walton

Bob Wamhoff

Valerie White

St. Charles Convention and Visitors Bureau

UMB Bank

Wamhoff Financial Sevices

White Auto Body

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Businessmen’s Prayer Breakfast

SOCIAL SCENE

Bridgeway’s 5th Annual Gala A Game Night at Amini’s to Restore Hope & Rebuild Lives. Event was held Saturday, August 21, 2010.

From Left to right … Left side front: Ami Danti (A’mis), Jerry Hollingsworth (Bridgeway Gala Co-Chair), Jim Russell(chef), Jeff Davis (Llywelyn’s Pub), Barb Gigante and Jim Curry(chef) (Donatelli’s Bistro), Back row Left Side (left to right): Shabi Moria (A’mis Italian Restaurant), Mike Morrison (Bridgeway CEO) From left to right … right side front: Jody Blanton (Bridgeway Gala Co-Chair), Marc Rousseau (R.T. Weiler’s), Kirk Menard (Virginia Barbeque), Nancy Cavazos (Event Planner), Kym Grannemann (Kym’s Confections), Wayne Davis (Braddens) Back row Right side (left to right) : Brian Durbin (Genghis Grill), Regina Ruppert (Vintner’s Cellar), Ashly Curry (Bridgeway Events Coordinator) Not pictured: Brian & Christy Hall (B Hall’s), Walt Chaboude (Culpeppers/St. Charles), Laurie White (McAlister’s Deli), Judy Howell & Sherry Pfaender (Miss Amiee B’s), Cindy & Chalyn Elking (Quintessential Catering), Kellie & Jeff Goddard (Rizzo’s Wentzville/Troy), Jeff Labeaume (Stefanina’s Express), Tony Bethmann (Tony’s on Main)

Photo by : Debbie Kertz from Ehlmann Photography 60 | S T R E E T S C A P E M A G A Z I N E

SOCIETY

SOCIETY SIGHTINGS … by Teri Seiler ive me a reason. Just give me any reason to be outside in autumn and I’m there! The warm, gentle breezes that blow through the month of September harboring a cool undercurrent (I’m sure a meteorologist would have a proper name for that) tease and tantalize as they whisper, “Fall is on it’s way. It’s time to go outside and play.” Thus, I am forever grateful to those community activists who brave Mother Nature’s unpredictable and sometimes warped sense of humor and proceed with their dreams of coordinating fresh-air events that give us the opportunity to gambol and graciously give gelt while enjoying the great outdoors.

It was a crisp September morning, and the clouds hovered overhead threatening to spill their liquid assets. Jerry Daugherty, Chairman, and Debbie Fann, Co-Chair(wo)man of the First Annual Boat Race for Backstoppers woke up and looked at the pending doom and most likely said to themselves, “This event was cancelled in June due to water levels and it’s just too important to postpone again. So, come hail or high waters we are going to make this event happen!” And so they did. With the help of people such as Jim Rassmussen, Cheryl Hibbeler, St. Peters Mayor Len Pagano, Dave Marlo, Brad Peters, Bill Schuette, Linda Didion, Mark Austin, Michael Conroy, Tim Dixon, Marty Limpert, Sheriff Tom Neer, and retired St. Louis County Police Chief Ron Battelle they welcomed hundreds of people who came from afar to see high powered race boats reach speeds of 190 mph-plus on the mighty Mississippi. Mark Austin and John Block along with their committee members were the stars of this fundraiser as they were in charge of the main event – coordinating the races and making sure registration went smoothly. Rick and Chris Maloney were on hand to give a hand to Speed Racer, sponsored by Rick’s work place, Roto Rooter. Sue McMahan, Joyce Schuette, and Amy Spencer provided lots of carnival fun for the kiddos; while Brad Peters, Bob Aubuchon, Rocky Reitmeyer and DaveVolz quenched any thirst or hunger pains. Kenny and Julie Biermann made sure everyone had enough tickets to enjoy the festivities. For those attendees who found it boring, relaxing on the banks of the Mississippi waiting for the next speed boat to prepare for take-off, they could participate in the washers tournament coordinated by Paul Jokerst and Christina Gonzales or bid on silent auction items. Of course events of this magnitude would not be possible without corporate sponsors, of which there were many thanks to the efforts of Scott Steele. The kind folks at Liberty Harbor had the chance to showcase their venue and despite the previous evening’s downpour that left a carpet of muddy goo, it was still fun to traipse around and “ooh” and “awe” over the motorized money catchers in dock. The funds raised from this event will help financially support the spouses and children of our local police, firefighters, paramedics and EMTs who lost their lives performing their duties. By the way, good things 62 | S T R E E T S C A P E M A G A Z I N E

happen to good people doing good things. The clouds dispersed, the sun came out, and a beautiful day of relaxing, riding, and rolling on the river ensued. A full moon provided the perfect backdrop for a glowing evening of fashion recently held outdoors on the fifth floor of Ameristar’s chic hotel located riverside in downtown St. Charles. Fashion lovers overflowed the venue and kept Mary Ellen Renaud busy at the ticket box while organizer-extraordinaire, Kate Santellano, rushed to find more chairs to seat the hundreds of guests that just kept coming and coming and coming. Karen Thomson and Christine Medley sat front row on the runway thanks to Karen’s hubby, Mike Thomson’s, generous sponsorship of the event. An ever-cool Tom Hannegan introduced KMOV’S nighttime anchor, Vickie Newton, who wore her usual brand of C&A (charm and adorability) as emcee of the evening. Being ever so cognizant of her manners she introduced her ratings competitor, Art Holliday, who was sitting in the audience. Fashionistas such as Joyce Shaw, Ruth Scheiddegger, Dianne Vines, Donna Costellia, and Kelly Lamm, had the opportunity to sample the cupcake creations of Kym Grannemann (Kym’s Confections) and Laura Andert (Laulie Cakes), admire the jeweled creations of Marilyn Rufkahr (Lia Sophia Jewelry) and Lesley Held (Le’ Diva Jewelry), eye the latest trends that are available for purchase at Shannon Follwell and Stephany Lillard’s newly opened boutique in O’Fallon known as Jessie’s Jewels, and sample fall’s favorite vintage – apple wine – which is available at Lee and Regina Ruppert’s Vintner’s Cellar, a boutique winery, in O’Fallon. That ever-so-handsome, and President of the St. Charles Humane Society, Kris Pals, and his too-cute-for-words wife, Dani Pals, were busy encouraging folks to bid on the silent auction items and soliciting the crowd to buy raffle tickets in an effort to raise money for their “pet” charity. Cary O’Brien and Tami Scott put the finishing touches on the models that strutted the latest in swimwear and jeans. I sat next to the proud grandmother of Kristy Lee, a graduate of Lindenwood University’s Fashion Design School, coordinator of the runway show, and who had several designs featured on the catwalk. Grandma basically took credit for Kristy’s success explaining to me: “I taught Kristy how to sew on my Bernina when she was eight years old.” Did I mention she was a proud grandma? Speaking of proud, Florence DeWan, chairperson of Fashion Design at Lindenwood University, was shining as bright as that full moon as she watched the incredible creations of her students. So, when looking for your next designer duds, forget Calvin, Tommy, and Michael and start looking for these designer dudes and dudettes: Hoda Abdian, Jason Christopher Peters, Santino Rice, A.J. Thouvenot, Kristy Lee, Nicole Moss, and Suzanne Lay. You can thank me later when you are featured on the cover of InStyle. Oh, by the way, Saturday evening’s fashion show, held inside the ballroom of the hotel, where Mary Lou and John Hannegan sat front row, was just as much fun – just ask Lisa Baue, Joi Niedner, and Deborah Allessi, who faced the challenge of finding available seats.

Outdoorsmen such as Dr. Michael Conoyer, Bob Cissell, Gerry Prinster, Don Boschert, Jr., Bob Davis, Senator Tom Dempsey, and Rich Kulage woke up early, one recent September morn, and headed for Mallard Point where Dave Bumb chaired the 28th Annual Charity Dove Hunt to benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Charles County. Alan Orf made sure the hunters “hit the spot” by having lots of Pepsi products available. Helen Eichorn was the big winner of the day; not because she shot the most doves, because she won the $500.00 gift card to Cabela’s. Dave Adams, Larry Ruff, Charlie Shannon, Roger Hopkins, Gary Lacy, Bobby and Gwyn Roberts, and Fred Jasick also won various prizes. Sam Holman won the bid for a goose hunt for two guests at Dillard Farm. It was a great day for doves, dogs and doing good while having a “blast” raising $11,200 for the kids at the Clubs. During another shootout for the Boys & Girls Clubs – this time clay birds, not real ones – Jerry Hollingsworth, Keith Haislip, and Dr. Robert MacDonald helped raise over $6,000.00 thanks to participants such as Mark Bockerstett, Jim Didion, Matt Hurley, Curt and Chris Dreyer, Ron Hicks, Roger and Pat Pryor, Bud Harold, Jay West and Mike Hollingsworth; not to mention a couple of the sharpshooters from Lindenwood University’s Skeet Shooting Team. They took the bang out of the barrels of some of the guys who thought they were pretty good until they watched those young guns blast a round, or two, or three without missing. Bob Coleman will be hitting the birds better since he won the Benelli Super Black Eagle II Max Camo 12 gauge shotgun that was raffled. America’s Top Chef ’s (or at least St. Charles County’s top volunteer chefs) caught behind the grills making hamburgers and brats were Gary Kosednar, Jerry Furlow, Lou Pessoni, Larry Austin and Bill Thomas. The calm before the storm gave Laura Helling, Jane Isenberg, David Helling, Sarah Flentge, Melissa Trask, Mike Ritchie, Jillian Bartak, and Dan Fleri, a few of the folks who helped support the 16th Annual Missouri Mosaics Festival for the Art, a twoday event instead of the planned three-day event. However, organizers know “wet happens” with outdoor events. Although Sunday was basically a wash-out, Friday and Saturday were quite nice as Angela Fowle, Liz Friederich, Mandy Farrell, and Shelley Geiger worked alongside the National Honor Society students from St. Charles High School to encourage budding artists in the Children’s Village to create sand drawings, wire sculptures, construction paper lizards and water color wonders. Rita Sponamore was spotted helping in the souvenir tee-shirt booth. Art aficionados visited numerous booths such as those of Bradley Bauer, Lisa Jaboor, Lisa Becker, Paul Bayer, Barbara Bowling, Kyle Diffey, Joseph Farmer, Maggie McCarthy, Jean McMullen, Wayne Trinklein, all from St. Charles County, who exhibited glass, jewelry, mixed media and sculptures. If you recently drove past West Clay and headed down Duchesne you could smell bar-b-que that got your gastric juices gurgling. The “a-ha” moment came as you approached Schnucks’ parking lot and saw the men of The First United Methodist Men’s Club, such as Jerry Jones, Paul Vipond, Gary Bickel, Associate Pastor John Ray, Lloyd Gross, Rich Suter, David Eckhoff, John Cross, Les Peters, and Barry Bennett, smoking some really good stuff – brats, chicken and pork steaks – along side members of their Chancel

Choir, such as Gene Wellinghoff, Tom Pyles, Jerry, Betty and Nancy Knapp, Alice Kniker, Peggy McDaniel, Marybeth Dick, and Karen and Gran Mitchell. The two groups were working the coals to raise funds for several ministries such as free Bible school education and uniforms for their newly established Boy Scout troop. While you are out and about frolicking in the fall festivities, be sure to stop by Savvy Settings located at 412 Boones Lick Road. Meredith Borgmeyer recently fulfilled her long-time dream of owning a store filled with unique furniture, home décor items, and antiques. She enlisted the decorating and business skills of her talented friend, Cathy Glosier. Together they have created a savvy place of warmth and welcome to all who stop to shop. Warning: Beware of their guard dog/mascot. She can be pretty ferocious. They say only 2% of married couples make it to their 60th wedding anniversary; thus, the recent celebration of sixty years of marriage of Tom and Mary Stephenson was a marital milestone. Over 100 guests such as Tom and Mary Boschert, Norma and Robert Koetter, Doug and Leah Boschert (who had more years of marriage than anyone in the crowd) Joan Berry, and Maxine Huster enjoyed the Stephenson’s children, Margaret Harper, Marilyn Martin, Marlene Richardson, Malissa Murdock, and Thomas Stephenson, Jr. as they paid homage to their parents with a musical tribute, poems and comedic skits at The Columns Banquet Center. Even the grandchildren got in the act; in particular, Marissa Murdock, who is Jr. Miss Colorado World 2010. She performed a jaw-dropping rendition of I Look to You. Mary Lou Hannegan recently entertained an energetic gaggle of gals who are preparing for the Crystal Ball, a fundraiser for the Boys & Girls Clubs, at her exquisite estate home overlooking Innsbrook Lake. The tranquil and serene environment is just what the ladies needed to brainstorm new and exciting auction ideas. After a personal tour of her beautiful home, Judy Peters, Doris Bennett, Dianne Burkemper, Dianne Garrison, Toekie Purler, Mary West, Jeanette Koechner, Linda Sanchez and Judy Burns were treated to a delicious lunch which consisted of pork tenderloin. The Crystal Ball is scheduled for Saturday, February 12, 2011. Get ready for an event that is going to make you cry foul or free throw! Paul Boschert, Dr. Bernard DuBray, Gary Melchior, Dale Brown, Scott Queen, Steve Stahl, Terry Hollander, Scott Harris, Mike Janes, Brad Sutterer and Mike Gohn are inviting 34 high school basketball teams – 17 teams from St. Charles County, 17 teams from St. Louis County – to participate in a first time basketball challenge hosted by Sports St. Charles County. Mark Reifsteck and Steven Rosenblatt, of The Family Arena, are helping the group make this three-day event, known as the GAC/Suburban Basketball Challenge, happen and have scheduled it for December 17, 18 and 19, 2010. If you love being around great kids, watching basketball, eating junk food, supporting cheerleaders, hearing high school bands, applauding dance teams and just having fun – you will want to put this event on your calendar. For tickets contact: Teri Seiler at 314-610-2315. Until next time…I got my eyes on you. ■

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Mary Ellen’s Corner Blogging for Beginners!

Choose a Blog Host

A blog (weblog) is a special type of website that displays entries or posts in reverse chronological order. Blogs can function as online diaries, soap boxes, or press releases. They can cover any number of subjects from pop culture, politics to what you had for lunch yesterday.

There are several diﬀerent kinds of services that will help you create and maintain your blog. The service you choose will depend on the purpose of your blog, your budget and your technical abilities. (Don't worry! There are plenty of free services.)

All you need to start blogging is an email address and something to say. There’s more than one free blogging service that can have you up blogging in less than ﬁve minutes. No technical expertise is needed. So let’s get started. Deﬁne Your Audience Are you creating a blog primarily to keep in touch with family and friends? Do you want to create a blog for people in your profession or who share your interests? Is your blog an extension of your business? Who your audience is will determine which type of blog host you use, the content of your blog, whether or not you publicize your blog and what success means for you in respect to your blogging endeavors.

Choosing Your Subject Figure out who you would like to target audience to be, here are some questions you might consider: • What are your customers interested in? • Where does your expertise lie? • What do you think is currently missing online?

Which Service is Right for You?

Pros: Free; No tech expertise required; can use registered domain name. Cons: HTML knowledge required to modify templates and use many sidebar add-ons Ideal User: First-Time Bloggers • WordPress.com Pros: Free with some advanced design pay options; No tech expertise required; Blog traﬃc statistics built-in; Easy-to-use sidebar add-ons; can use registered domain name. Cons: While WordPress.com’s interface is simple, it’s not as simple as Blogger’s. Some knowledge of tech- or blog-relatedjargon is helpful. Templates are not fully modiﬁable unless you purchase ess editing options. Knowledge of CSS required. Ideal User: Savvy beginners. Because WordPress also produces a serverside blogging software (WordPress.org), WordPress.com is good for users that may eventually want to switch to a standalone host.

• Do you have a goal that you’re trying to achieve that could be documented online? • If you need some inspiration, check out some of the most popular blogs on the internet through Technorati’s Popular Blogs page at www.technoratLcom.

Naming your Blog There’s no limit to what you can name your blog. Some blogs have names that relate to their subject matter Some blogs have completely nonsensical names that are just plain catchy – The easiest way out may just be naming your blog after yourself. Whatever you decide, keep in mind that a blog’s name should ideally be memorable, short, easy to spell and free of hyphens.

The Components of a Blog (start your conversation) • Subject or header – you need a catchy header just like a newspaper or email subject. What is my title? • Body – the main part of the post – What do you want to say? What questions do you want to ask? • Comments Section – a way that readers can respond to what’s been said. This is an important part of blogging, which is much more conversational than print media. As soon as you write something, your readers have a chance to respond to it. Allow me to respond.

• Typepad Pros: No tech expertise required; Broad menu of sidebar add-ons; Blog traﬃc statistics built-in; Full Photoblog capabilities and photo album interface; can use registered domain name. Cons: Cost (Four Pricing Levels from $4.95/mo - $29.95/mo); Basic HTML required to use all of the available sidebar add-ons; Some knowledge of tech- or blog-related jargon useful; Limited design ﬂexibility at Basic Pricing Level; ess knowledge required to modify templates at Pro and Premium Levels Ideal User: Savvy beginners who would like their blog service to grow with them as their technical skills evolve For business owners it is imperative for you to blog because one thing, search engines favor are websites that are updated regularly, and blogging is a great way to make sure that your content is always fresh, and thus regularly checked in on by Google. This gives you a much better shot of appearing high in the results of Google search. Happy Blogging!

Mary Ellen Renaud

BOOK CLUB

• Time and date stamp – so that readers know how recent the post is. Commonly people aren’t so interested in reading out of date posts.

TWELFTH GRADE KILLS by Heather Brewer Heather is a great friend of Main Street Books. We have signed copies of all the Vladimir Tod books and in this fifth and final installment, Vlad must confront the secrets of the past, unravel the mystery of who he really is, make decisions about his future, and face his greatest enemy. It’s a senior year that totally bites. Available at Main Street Books 307 South Main | 636-949-0105

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Mary Ellen Renaud

• Blogger

Penguin, Hardcover, $16.99