By Nancy Vordtriede & Mark Daly

St. Louis Hills Block Captain Program – February 2008

In This Issue What Makes Our Neighbors Special? | by Nancy Vordtriede & Mark Daly

Block Capt. e have decided to divert from place when I am late home from work. Chair Report 1 Wour normal routine this quarter in Red ribbons appear on our trees at order to discuss our neighbors and what Christmas time and Flags line the street 16th Ward makes them special in our lives. How on the July 4th... Southland Ave. Alderwoman 2 they come through in the most needed moments and times, yet too we celebrate Progressive Dinners, Block Parties, Chili St. Louis Hills at the happiest of times. Our days are Cook-Offs. Neighbors are wonderful Southside Entrance 2 so fast paced with technology, cell because they have a key to your house phones, computers, emails, voice when you don’t!.. Neosho Ave. President’s Report 3 mails, Blackberry’s, our family routines, etc. that we rarely take time to focus on Neighbors caring for other neighbors who Lighting Award Winners 4 the essentials of life. This includes our are elderly. Cooking, delivering them special neighbors. meals, picking up newspapers, taking in

Holiday Party Wrap Up 5 trash carts, cleaning up their yards after Yet, it continues to amaze both of us in storms, checking on them, they have a pinch or at a party what can happen Easter Egg Hunt 5 been a blessing... Highfield Rd. next door, or down the street, or in the middle. For some of us this special work The most evident example is the Rosemary’s Corner 6 of our neighbors is quite evident and Christmas lighting. We have many for some it is silent. Whether it be a trash volunteers and contributors working Christmas Decorations 7 cart taken in, tree branches removed together to help get the street ready. after a storm, papers picked up, dog Next, everyone gets busy decorating their William Bradburn sitting, houses watched for safety, parties homes. On the weekends many of planned or the next Christmas lighting Athletic Field 8-9 us gather to help spread the cheer! display meeting for charity designed, We have many other activities throughout Old Newsboys Inductee 9 these are all items which make our neighbors special. So, to all of you our the year to keep us in touch... special neighbors a humble thank you. Murdoch Ave. Home & Kid Safety 10

We have taken the opportunity to talk Sure we have block parties just like Del Pietros 11 with some of you in the neighborhood many other streets, but each year and in your words hear what makes your we come up with more reasons to get Spring Cleaning 12 neighbor special. The names are not together. After Trick or Treating on mentioned, however streets if requested Halloween we gather on the circle for St. Raphaels 13 have been. chili & hot dogs. Football party on the driveways. Speaking of football we HCBA 14 I love spring and summer you can never enjoyed our first “Holiday Kick-Off” get any work accomplished in the family football game the Wednesday Flower of the Season 14 yard, everyone is talking and the kids before Thanksgiving. Then we topped are playing, just hearing the kids is a off 2007 with a little Christmas Caroling. Tax Credit 15 delight... Southland Ave. Here’s to fun-loving neighbors and a great neighborhood!.. Willmore Rd. She sees something suspicious 911 is Calendar of Events 16 called. My trash cart ends up back in its To a wonderful 2008. 2

16th Ward Update | by Donna Baringer, 16th Ward Alderwoman

n the winter of ‘07, a 16th Ward constituent asked me to approach our neighboring county Imunicipalities to see if they would be willing to let residents of the 16th Ward join their outdoor swimming facilities at a reduced rate. I approached a couple and one, Maplewood, agreed. Last summer 16th Ward constituents enjoyed the use of the Maplewood outdoor pool at a reduced rate. I have once again asked the city of Maplewood, and the request will be put before the city council in May for approval. The outcome of this meeting will be posted on my website. If the agreement is approved again, I will post when the passes may be purchased for summer 2008. This is a great example of how municipalities can work together as a team by sharing resources to help each other out regionally. If you have suggestions or ideas on how we can improve our community, I am more than happy to listen. Please stop by the Starbucks the first Friday of the month from 7:45-8:45 a.m. and have coffee with me.

St. Louis Hills Southside Entrance – Progress Report | by Steve Doss

t. Louis Hills has always been a great place to live because the neighbors, businesses, and churches work Stogether to build a unique caring community. When I put out a request in the last newsletter for funds to help build a new neighborhood identification marker on the Southside of the neighborhood, all three entities answered the call. We have achieved our goal and plan on breaking ground for the pillar in April.

The number of neighbors who have donated are too numerous to mention but special thanks goes out to the following church groups, businesses and associations:

St. Gabriel’s Golf Committee Imo’s St. Raphael’s Men’s Club Lesher’s Flowers Aboussie and Associates McDonald’s – Procter Family Franchises Artega Studios Mitchell Mechanical Bartolino’s/ Chris’ Restaurants Schaefer’s Auto Care Eichelberger Realty Sharamitaro & Associates, CPA Gilmore Electric Standard Travel Hampton Shoe Repair Ted Drewes Home Stretch Team – Realty Executives of St. Louis Webster Mortgage Group

Thanks for all you do to make this a great neighborhood.

Run for the Hills Correction

he Run for the Hills women’s 5K race results were posted incorrectly in the November issue of Hills St. News. TIt should have read… 70+ 1) ANN WILSON 34:01 3

SLHNA President’s Report | by Carol Wilson

ecently I had a discussion with a member Political Signs about “the old days” when the St. Louis Hills R The comments below were part of my column in the Neighborhood Association board was smaller and more November, 2006 newsletter. The issue has come up again, “manageable.” Although I am not sure I could tell you so I have asked that we reprint my previous comments. what I had for lunch yesterday, I do remember how different our association was twenty years ago. Some may feel that the sudden appearance of so many candidate/issue yard signs this year were an unwelcome In the late 1980s our board was considering whether violation of our tradition. Signs were always taboo in we should participate in an event where each city the Hills. Candidates did not put them in our yards neighborhood would share information about its com- because they felt the signs would actually cost them munity and neighborhood association. One board votes. This year those signs stood boldly right in the member explained to me that this was simply not middle of many lawns. something that St. Louis Hills should do because we were a hidden jewel in the city, and we should stay Are the signs attractive additions to our landscaping? that way—hidden. Absolutely not. Would some people like this association to ask residents to remove them? Yes, they would, but Then, as now, there were dedicated people on the we have not and cannot. The U.S. Supreme Court has board, but meetings were sometimes monopolized by ruled that the signs are expressions of free speech, and a few members whose attitude was negative toward as such, they are legal. A city ordinance regulates the anything new or innovative. My favorite was the size and number of signs, but neither the city nor the gentleman who told us that the first Run for the Hills SLHNA can outlaw them. We can cite our tradition, but would be a huge failure. He was convinced he was we must also be aware of the law. right when he arrived at Francis Park about 1:00 the day of the event and saw no one there, not realizing If signs encourage discussion and participation in the that we had cleaned up and left the park by noon— electoral process, then they have some value. When after hundreds of people had attended the Run. elections are over, the signs come down, and regardless of which candidate or issue wins, we all move on, not We have evolved. Membership is nearly triple what it as political opponents, but as friends and neighbors. was in the late 1980s, which provides us with a budget that subsidizes more events and projects, such as Run for the Hills, Art in the Park, the John Burghoff Gator patrol and the St. Louis Hills pillars (spearheaded by Tom Gilmore and Steve Doss). We changed our name from the St. Louis Hills Homeowners’ Association to the St. Louis Hills Neighborhood Association in order that both owners and residents would feel included.

Our board members live throughout the Hills. We attend different churches or no church; we are Republicans, Democrats and independents; we have lived here forever or are relatively new to the neighborhood. We all share a lively sense of humor, we are definitely not always manageable, but we genuinely like one another (almost always). And thanks to our board members and volunteers, St. Louis Hills is still a jewel, but no longer hidden.

Join us at our next general meetings on March 12 and June 12 at 7:00 p.m. in the Word of Life gym. Our March meeting will provide home improvement information. On the agenda for the June meeting is the SLHNA election, a civilized non-partisan event that will feature no long speeches or unrealistic campaign promises. 4

Christmas Lighting Award | by Nick Zervos WOW! Another OUTSTANDING year for holiday lights. I would like to give huge kudos to the judges. There were 31 of them this year and they did an excellent job! This could not happen without them. My thanks.

Again this year there were people that weren’t paid members. They could have won. Please become a member of the SLHNA. There are GREAT benefits and fun to be had.

Lastly, I will be resigning my chairmanship for 2008. If anyone would be interested in chairing the Lawn & Garden and Lighting Awards, please contact Carol Wilson.

APTS 6222 Nottingham Apt 2W Douglas Polley 6677 Devonshire Apt 2F Cindi Underwood

BLOCKS 6500 Murdoch 6500 Neosho 6200 Rhodes 6700 Walsh

Homes 6217 Delor Ralph & Nadine Pace 6009 Guilford Pl. Dennis & Bea O’Connor 6245 Itaska Jeremy & Stephanie Roeder 5982 Keith Pl. Greg & Lori Boschert 6231 Murdoch Dave & Cara Christanell 6478 Murdoch Tim & Lynne Wiese 6519 Murdoch John & Marci Kuehner 6549 Murdoch Gordon & Kathleen Ferguson

Winners 6726 Neosho Helen Doyal 6001 Southland Ann Knight 5874 Walsh Lon & Christine Lofstedt 6220 Walsh Carl & Caroline Schwarzen 6715 Westway Joan Fitzsimmons 37 Willmore Rd. Tom & Jeanne Magee 6211 Winona Tracy Adams 5

2007 Holiday Party Wrap Up | by Janice Starbuck, Holiday Party Committee Chair

he big Mizzou – Oklahoma championship football game presented new challenges to the holiday party Tcommittee this year, but adjustments were made and the party went off as planned. The raffles were especially beautiful this year and continue to be the best deal in town.

I would like to thank the many people that helped pull this party together.

• Anheuser–Busch and Joe & Joni Patti for donating the beer, as they have done for many years. We are so grateful. • Joe Leisure of JRL Jewelry Co. for his generous donation of our most expensive and bid upon raffle item: citrine and diamond earrings in gold and for his donation of DJ services for the evening. • Paul Beckerle and the St. Raphael’s Men’s Club for their generous loan of a big screen TV for the evening. • Bob Klasek for prepping the beverages. • Mike Flowers for running the bar. • The many volunteers that helped with set up and clean up. • Santa Claus (Ted Gierse) for helping with the raffle announcements. • St. Raphael’s for generously allowing us to use their facilities.

Most of all, thanks to the dedicated Holiday Party Committee: Kerri Bonasch, Susan Darby, Judith Hanses, Paddy Jacobsmeyer, Amy Kidwell, Megan McKenna, Carolyn Schainker, Nancy Svendsen, Nancy Vordtriede and Mary Wedemeier for their continued efforts to make this party a wonderful neighborhood social event.

The 2008 party is scheduled for December 6 – Save the date.

SLHNA Easter Egg Hunt | by Peggy Stelzer

ark your calendars for the St. Louis Hills Neighborhood Association’s annual Easter Egg Hunt in Francis Park. MChildren of all ages can participate. There are designated areas broken down by age group where the kids can gather eggs filled with candy and prize coupons. Children in 4th to 8th grade will search an extended area to find four prize eggs with a $25 prize each.

As always, the Easter Bunny and his helpers will be on hand for photo opportunities with the little ones. We hope to see you all there!

Saturday, March 22, 2008 11:00 a.m. Francis Park Near the playground area

Adults are welcome to come at 10:00 a.m. to help set up. Many volunteers are needed. Any questions, call Peggy Stelzer (314) 352-1285. Thanks for your support.

Thank You

he Block Captain’s Program would like to thank the following businesses who graciously contributed to our Tholiday Block Captain’s meeting prize drawing: • Eagle Bank • Ted Drewes • Lion’s Choice • SLHNA Holiday Party Committee • Starbucks • SLHNA 6

Rosemary’s Corner | by Rosemary Spitler

EIGHTH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING On Sunday, November 25, 2007, Mother Nature provided a cold light rain over our 2007 tree lighting but that didn’t dampen the spirits of the 1200-1500 people braving the weather to attend. Sincere thanks to all attendees and to the volunteers who enabled this event to be held.

Special thanks to: - Tom Gilmore, Gilmore Electric and Al Cody for the awesome decorating of our new Spruce tree. - Dave Wiethop and Nestlé USA for providing candy and hot chocolate mix for all those attending. His generosity is truly appreciated each year. - St. Louis Parks Department and Joe Vacca for their help with the tree and bandstand. - Fredbird and the St. Louis Cardinals and Mitch Hanneken for arranging his visit. - Ted Gierse and Mary Colombo for enabling Santa and Mrs. Claus to visit. - St. Raphael Choir for providing a beautiful Christmas Concert. They are the only church choir to respond to our annual request for carolers. - Jeremy Roeder for donating his DJ services and providing the spirited holiday music. - The St. Louis Hills Neighborhood Association funds all the activities at this event including horse-drawn carriage rides, Dad’s cookies, Kettle Korn, beverages prepared and served by LeGrands Market; prizes at the Sucker-Pull Booth, and new in 2007 a visit by a live Reindeer. This is one of the annual expenditures of your association dues. Mark your calendars for Sunday, November 30, 2008 so you won’t miss this great holiday event.

LOST AND FOUND If anyone lost a black glove at the tree lighting program in Francis Park on Nov. 25, contact Rosemary Spitler, 352-4885. I have four unmatched glove found that evening.

PARKS CLEAN-UP DAY The Spring Park Clean-Up and Planting Day is scheduled for Saturday, May 3, 2008. Meet at 8:30 a.m. at Tamm & Nottingham for Francis Park volunteers and at Hampton & Jamieson for Willmore Park volunteers. Mark your calendar and plan to help us beautify our neighborhood parks.

BLITZ SATURDAY IN ST. LOUIS HILLS Operation Brightside has scheduled Saturday, March 29, 2008 as Blitz Day in St. Louis Hills. They are looking for people to sign-up as Blitz Block Captains for their block. This involves notifying your block about Blitz Day and the bulk and regular trash pick-ups that Saturday. If interested in helping with Blitz Day contact Rosemary Spitler, 352-4885. 7

Christmas Decoration With A History | by Jeanne Magee (as told to her by Rob)

id you ever wonder where those great Currier & than Rob really wanted to pay. The man then tried DIves-looking Christmas Decorations at LeGrand’s to talk Rob into some other decorations that were Market came from? more in his price range. Sure they were nice too, but they needed a significant amount of work to make I’m sure we’ve all used the expression, “he’s a really them look presentable so Rob stepped away to speak nice guy” a time or two, but Rob LeGrand is truly with his consultant, eight year old Nicholas. one of the nicest guys you’d ever want to meet. He’s After consulting with his son and walking back and a Cub Scout Master, he’s handier than Bob Vila (so he’s forth between the signs Rob started to settle on the asked to help with countless projects for the school lower priced signs but Nick held strong and kept and church) and he’s a dedicated father and husband. telling his Dad how much better he liked the other, Most notably however, you rarely see Rob with out a more expensive signs. Rob agreed with Nick so he smile on his face. You get the picture - nice guy. made an offer, but the man politely refused it. Back to Nick Rob went. His clever son was quick to One mid December a few years back Rob was browsing point out some flaws in the decorations that may through the Bargain Box section in the Post-Dispatch encourage the man to lower his price. With greater and an ad entitled “Antique Municipal Christmas conviction Rob makes the exact same offer, but Decorations” caught his eye. Since Rob has a passion this time asks for eight signs not just the few they for treasures of the past he called the number in the had talked about originally. While the man seemed paper and before you know it he was out the door interested, he was hesitant on the package price with his oldest son in hand for an afternoon of which was half of what he was asking. So Rob pulled father-son bonding and hopefully a little bargain all the money he had out of his wallet and came up hunting as well. with a slightly higher offer. Rob could tell they were close to a deal but he was still holding back. Rob then The gentlemen who was selling the lights said he instructed Nick to pull out the money he had. Can recently purchased the old Christmas decorations you imagine what that scene looked like when this from a small town in Illinois. Rob’s pretty sure it little eight year old boy pulled out his own money to was Millstadt, but he won’t swear to it because, after help his dad by these decorations? For all this man all, he’s a nice guy and he honestly couldn’t say for knew that money was meant for things like bikes and sure. When Rob arrived, the man had a wide variety baseballs, not old municipal Christmas decorations. of decorations in an equally wide price range. Talk about tugging on someone’s heart strings.

Before entering Rob took the opportunity to explain Nick did just like his father asked, he pulled out a thing or two about negotiating a purchase price to that money right in front of the man, counted it his son Nicholas who, at that time, was around eight and handed it to his dad. Rob added that money to years old. It went a little something like, “Nick this is the offer he already made saying, “This is it, this is how much I’m willing to spend, but I’m not going to our final offer.” Offer accepted! Well, well, well, tell the man how much I have.” Rob then proceeded seems our nice Rob LeGrand is quite the shrewd to give some of his money to his eight year old for business man. Who knew? safe keeping instructing him to keep it in his pocket until Rob asked for the money. With the entire set, Rob was able to decorate all of Crane Circle and have a couple left over for his As luck would have it, the decorations Rob liked brothers at the Market. If you didn’t have a chance to the most were off to the side because the man was see them this year, be sure to drive down Crane Circle saving them for himself. He wanted to hang them next year to enjoy these beautiful decorations and on his own place of business and the surrounding smile when you think of an eight year old boy pulling property. However, he was willing to sell a few to some rumpled dollar bills out of his pocket to seal Rob. He gave Rob a price but he was asking more the deal. 8

William Bradburn Athletic Field | by Bill Larson (grandson) with excerpts from Ed “Skip” Jacoby

t was the morning he lived, which just happened to be right across the Iof November 24 street from the field.” that a small sign was erected in the corner “They decided that it was a great idea and agreed that of the ball field of they would go home, clean up, have supper and return Nottingham School. to the field and go in a group to Mr. Bradburn’s house It simply reads and ask him to coach their team. It would become the “William Bradburn best decision of their young lives.” Athletic Field.” I suspect that for “They met that evening and after a little hemming and most people in the neighborhood it is hawing went over and knocked on the door. His wife a name that is answered and they asked if they could please speak unfamiliar. For a to Mr. Bradburn. He came to the door and they asked group of boys 64 years ago, it was the name of a man if he would coach their baseball team. He accepted who would change their lives. The following is an almost before they had finished asking the question.” excerpt from a recollection of one of those boys. “The rest of “The month of April 1943 seemed like any other April that evening in the life the ten, eleven, and twelve year old boys was spent who attended Nottingham School. They did not know sitting on Mr. that before the month was over they would meet a Bradburn’s man who would mold and shape their personalities for front porch the rest of their lives.” discussing which nights “April began like any other April in their lives with rain which they hated because it made a quagmire of the were best for baseball field behind the school. And that field was practices, always the center of their lives from the time it dried how they out in the spring until the frosts of late fall.” could get equipment, “They didn’t have enough players to play inter-squad who they games so they settled for a variety of pastimes. They would play would take infield practice, shag fly balls, play Indian and a name ball, or a game known as “nip” and when they rested for the team. they sat on the curb under the sycamores along Not- Bill Bradburn That night tingham Street. There they discussed the feats of their the Notting- heroes, Stan Musial, Whitey Kurowski, Marty Marion, ham Athletic Red Schoendinst and Ray Sanders.” Club was formed and the relationship forged that night would consume their lives for the next six years.” “One day after school one of those days in April one of the their teachers, a Miss Gausch, came out to the field and told them that if they wanted to form a Bill Bradburn was their inspiration, leader, and men- team she knew of a man in the neighborhood who was tor. He coached the fine points of baseball but more former great athlete who might coach them. (Bill and importantly taught them the idea of sportsmanship, his brother Vern Bradburn were the stand out players team play and honor. His reputation as one of the for St. Louis University basketball from 1922-26.) This finest coaches spread and a second team was formed. was the first time they heard the name Bill Bradburn. One team played in the Muny leagues on Sundays and Miss Gausch pointed out the house on Neosho where the other in the Joe Casino league on Wednesdays. 9

Old Newsboys Hall of Fame Inductee

Two years after the start of the Nottingham A.C., he took ane (Mitchellette) Hanneken, known profes- that same group and formed a basketball team. Without Jsionally and to her friends as “Mitch” has a gym to practice in, these boys took their old laced-up supported Old Newsboys Day for more than basketball to the asphalt lot and practiced in rain and three decades. On Tuesday, December 18, Mitch cold. This bare boned practice court helped improve was inducted in the Old Newsboys Hall of Fame at the Golden Plate Award Dinner held at the their ball handling skills more than any of the advanced Edward Jones Building in Des Peres. drills practiced on the indoor courts.

During these six years Bill Bradburn’s philosophy was that everyone on the team was integral to the success of the team. More important than winning was the respect he gave his players by making sure each one played in every game. His philosophy drove his boys to practice and play hard and eventually led to two city championships in baseball and basketball.

After his boys graduated from high school and they went on to college, the team split up and Bill Bradburn retired from coaching. Twenty years later, these same “boys” led by Ed “Skip” Jacoby got together to honor their beloved coach. On April 24, 1970 the Nottingham School ball field was named the “William Bradburn Athletic Mitch Hanneken at the 2007 Old Newsboys Day Field” accompanied by a telegram from Governor Warren Induction ceremony. Hearnes wishing him his personal best. The purpose of this Award was to honor Mitch Bill Bradburn built his home at 6552 Neosho in 1938 and for her passion of Old Newsboys and service to lived there with his wife Elvera and his daughters Betty children in the community. and Barbara. In 1981 Bill and his wife sold their home and left behind a tremendous treasure trove of memo- Mitch began hawking papers for Old Newsboys ries and friendships. Bill passed away in April 1983. in 1972 with only 2 other volunteers. Over the years Camp Happy Day (which she founded in 1971) helped to man 17 corners, all but two In March 2002 Bill Bradburn was inducted into the SLU in the St. Louis Hills area. Volunteers, friends, Billiken Hall of Fame for his contributions to SLU basket- parents, campers, staff and board members ball from 1922-1926. To commemorate this event, eight man these corners. Area business leaders, of the original members of the Nottingham A.C. attended corporations and residents of St. Louis bi-state the induction to honor this great man that had made area also hawk papers. such a profound impact on their lives. In addition to organizing volunteers for the 17 corners, Mitch also arranges for the folding of aprons and preparing kits prior to Old Newsboys Day.

Old Newsboys Day is held the Thursday prior to Thanksgiving. Money collected is distributed to more than 250 area charities who serve local needy children. Since 1955 Old Newsboys Day has collected over $11 million.

Anyone interested in joining Mitch in this worthwhile event can contact her at Bill Bradburn induction into the SLU Billiken Hall of Fame. (314) 352-5372. 10

Home Safety | by Capt. Mary Warnecke

his is a friendly reminder from the Saint Louis Metropolitan Police Department to residents of the Second TDistrict. We have noticed that many residents leave their garage doors either completely unlocked or open. With spring approaching help us reduce crime in your neighborhood by using common sense and realize that:

• Open garages easily display all your possessions to would be thieves driving or walking in your alley. • Neighbors may not know someone doesn’t belong if a thief can easily gain entry to your garage. • Lawn mowers, trimmers, blowers, etc. are popular with thieves looking for quick money. • Easy access to a garage may embolden a thief to check the security of your home as well. • Simply closing and locking your garage even while you’re at home is important. • More than one third of all garage burglary victims leave their garages open or unlocked. • Please call 911 when you see something that may not be right.

Safety Tips for Kids | by St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department

stranger is any person you do not know. immediately go to a “safe place” and tell and adult. A If a stranger approaches you, even if he knows If you ever see one of your friends get approached your name, still consider that person a stranger. by a stranger, remind your friend of the rules when it Never accept gifts from strangers. This includes comes to strangers. If your friend does not follow the candy, toys, pets, and food. rules, go home and tell your parents what happened.

If a stranger approaches you and asks you for help Always tell your parents where you are going and with a problem, what should you do? whom you will be with before you leave home. Once Tell the stranger to leave you alone and that you you get to your destination, never leave that place cannot help with the problem. Immediately go to a without contacting your parents and getting their “safe place” and report what happened to an adult. permission. Make sure your parents have the phone Sometimes a stranger will tell you they are lost or numbers of all your friends, so they can call you if that they have lost their child or pet. No matter what they need to. a stranger’s problem is, don’t get involved! What is a safe place? If a stranger asks you to get into their car, what Your home, schools, churches, firehouses, police sta- should you do? tions, libraries, a friend’s house, restaurants, stores Never get into a car with a stranger. Tell the stranger to leave you alone. Get away from the car. Attempt When you arrive at a safe place, find an adult, to get the description of the car and the license plate employee, or someone you recognize and tell them number, if possible. Immediately go to a “safe place” you need help. Call your parents or the police. and report what happened to an adult. If you cannot find a safe place, and have a cell If a stranger continues to bother you after you phone, call 9-1-1. have told him/her to leave you alone, what should you do? When you go to a safe place, it is important to Yell and scream for help! Run away! Get away from know… the stranger! Immediately go to a “safe place” and - Your full name report what happened to an adult. - Your parents names - Your address Always try to walk with others. Try to stay in well- - Your phone number lighted areas, and never go into houses, buildings, and garages that belong to other people. If you ever If you can, write down any information you can feel a stranger is watching you or any of your friends, remember about what happened. 7

Del Pietro’s/Russo – A St. Louis Restaurant Family Legacy | by Steve Doss

hen Roy Russo opened Rossino’s in 1954, I expansion took place, this time in Clayton. Wwonder if he knew he was creating a family restaurant legacy that would span over 50 years in Today, Mary Rose’s daughter Angela owns Portabella, St. Louis? A steak house next (Roy’s Steak House in daughter Lea and sons Michael and Marc own Grantwood Plaza), he opened his St. Louis Hills res- KilKenney and Luciano’s. All three restaurants are taurant Saro’s Sunny Italy in the building which was in Clayton. Parente’s and now is Garavellis at Lansdowne and Chippewa. With the family name on the door, Mary Rose still greets you on Hampton like you are coming into her While Roy was working, Mike Del Pietro was walk- home. Visit her home on Monday and Grandma Lee ing Mary Rose Russo to school on the Hill. They kept Russo will greet you as well. With Mary Rose the walking together at DuBourg, to the altar, and then grandmother of 8 beautiful grandchildren, the family to 5625 Hampton. tradition appears to be secure for another couple of decades for sure. Del Pietro’s opened on September 13, 1976 with 8 tables and seating for 34. The building had housed Full disclaimer by the author – I may have spilled a Kentucky Fried Chicken, Dorothy’s Delicatessen, food on you at Saro’s in the 60s when I was a and Vencino’s, before Del Pietro’s established their banquet boy in the basement working for Roy Russo! brand. When they opened, Hampton didn’t have Sorry. another Italian restaurant north on Hampton to La Cino’s – how the neighborhood has changed.

The taste sensations created by Del Pietro’s was an immediate hit with the palate of southsiders. The quality and high standards set by the family resulted in such outstanding patronage, that they have expanded their physical operation 3 times. Del Pietro’s now can seat 200. With additional seating, came the need for parking and a corporate office space. The family now has a business compound which is one of the best on Hampton for customers and neighbors.

The family brand went west when they opened Michael’s (Olive & 141) in 1984 (closed in 1995.) As the third generation came into the business, another 12

Spring Cleaning | by DeAnna Murphy, 16th Ward NSO

n top of all the cob webs and dust bunnies you’ll may be more serious than “some bored kid”, let your Obe tackling in your homes and apartments when NSO know along with the police. Sometimes there is the weather breaks, don’t forget the outside spaces. a rash of tagging or graffiti that goes on in an area. This also needs to be reported. Police can look for Litter and random debris can accumulate during the patterns in the type of tagging and where graffiti is winter months. This is particularly true in the alleys found. It even helps to know in what colors the let- and around the street curbs. In the alleys, picking up ters or pictures are drawn. trash out of the bushes and from around the refuse containers can do wonders for keeping the community Grass, weeds and landscaping!!! By city standards clean, safe and beautiful. It also helps to control pest grass and weeds should not be allowed to grow populations by not giving them material to nest in or beyond 7 inches. Trees and bushes should allow 8 feed off. feet of clearance from the streets, alleys surfaces and sidewalks. All yard waste should be disposed of Blowing debris can accumulate along fence lines and in the Yard Waste Only containers. Please do not over in yards making even the loveliest building look old fill these containers. Unless limbs are cut to fit and and run down. This includes leaves and fallen tree placed in Yard Waste Only containers they will not be branches that have been left unattended throughout picked up. Placing long or heavy limbs behind the the winter months. containers does not get them collected. Typically, they end up rotting and becoming nesting places for Leaves… glorious leaves!!! Leaves should be raked up insects and other pests. and put into the Yard Waste Only containers for pick up; not piled in the street. City Leaf Pick Up is not a I hope you find these spring cleaning tips helpful. service that runs all winter long. Leaves left in the If you have any questions, feel free to ask. street after City Leaf Pick Up clog the street cleaning machines, wreak havoc in the sewer system and can end up rotting at the curb and in the sewer. This increases the mold count in neighborhoods. (How are your allergies this season?) MONUMENTS OF ST. LOUIS KEVIN DAMRON Graffiti!!! Warm weather brings out all kinds of President

people; even people with NOTHING better to do than 7144 Villanova Plaza 4356 N. Service Rd. draw… on anything. Most of the graffiti I’ve seen in St. Louis, MO 63123 St. Peters, MO 63376 314-481-6006 636-477-6006 this area is the kind of “tagging” associated with self 314-832-4071 (fax) 636-926-0076 (fax) identification or pranks. If you see any graffiti in your area, make sure you report it to the Citizen’s Service Granite, Duplicate & Bronze Memorials • On-Site Lettering Custom Designing • On-Site Sandblasting • Brick Pavers • Signs Bureau at 622-4800 right away. If you suspect that it 13

St. Raphael The Archangel Catholic Church | by Frederick A. Hodes

t. Raphael the Archangel parish came into being on In 1988 Fr. William A. Drennan became pastor and SJune 24, 1950, when Archbishop Joseph E. Ritter served until 2005. In 2001 a capital campaign raised appointed Fr. Arthur G. Behrman to organize a parish funds for a four-classroom addition to the school with in the southwest corner of St. Louis city and the a new entrance and updated facilities, including an adjacent area of elevator to give the county. The access to the two seminary chapel at floors, the gym, Cardinal Glennon and the cafeteria. College served The parish is very as the temporary proud of its teach- church with the ers, students, and first Mass updated school celebrated there building. The on July 30, 1950. school enrollment In August 1950, for the year Father Behrman 2006-2007 moved into a numbered 186. temporary residence at 5935 Jamieson Fr. James P. Grady as the ground was is the current broken for the pastor, assisted by first rectory at Fr. Richard Suren, 6449 Highfield. On in residence. In January 21, 1951, Bishop John Cody officiated at the addition, the parish is served by deacons Rev. Mr. groundbreaking ceremony for the school; and con- Gerald J. Geiser and Rev. Mr. Roger Kreitler. struction proceeded rapidly. On September 12 the school opened with the School Sisters of Notre Dame The parish is named for St. Raphael the Archangel teaching 340 students. On August 15, 1951, Father who is a central figure in the Old Testament Book Behrman blessed the cornerstone for the church por- of Tobit. Raphael, whose name means “God Heals,” tion of the complex (now the gym), and on January is one of the three archangels identified in the 26, 1952, he celebrated the first Mass in the 600-seat Scriptures. Raphael reflects God’s love for us and church. personifies His concern for our problems. As an answer to our prayers, the Archangel Raphael stands In 1956 the parish lost the area west of River Des before the throne of God as our protector and patron. Peres to the newly formed St. Dominic Savio parish, after the city decided not to extend Loughborough The St. Raphael the Archangel Mission statement is: west to bridge the river. We the parish of Saint Raphael the Archangel celebrate Jesus as the center of our life. Through our In 1965 Father Behrman received permission to build active participation in the Eucharist, we strive to a new church and attached rectory. Construction for recognize Jesus in our daily lives and the lives of the 750-seat church began in the summer of 1966, others. Our commitment is to grow as a parish and the first Mass was celebrated on November 5, family and live through our religious, educational, 1967. Retained from the temporary church were the social, and civic involvements, witnessing to all, altar crucifix in its original state and the statues that our faith in God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. were modified from color to solid white. The new church was designed to complement the colonial-style The parish consists of 640 families and individuals. architecture of the school. It is blessed with over forty organizations to meet its various needs. From preschoolers to senior citi- Father Behrman died on February 21, 1971, and zens there are religious and social activities for all. was succeeded by Fr. Richard J. Gallagher. During Daily Masses are held at 7:00 a.m., Monday through the early 1970s, the Sisters of Notre Dame slowly Saturday, and 8:00 a.m., Monday through Friday. withdrew their staff. Monsignor Gallagher successfully There is a Saturday evening Mass at 4:30 p.m. and oversaw the school’s transition to a completely lay Sunday morning Masses are held at 8:00 and 10:00. faculty by 1979. 14

Hampton-Chippewa Business Association Working with the Community

ince 1978, the Hampton-Chippewa Business Associa- business district as we work with our local Aldermen. Stion has worked closely with the community and its As the trend for home-based businesses grows we are elected officials to promote the business district. Our well positioned to help. Those home-based businesses 130 members represent a diverse group of businesses can receive neighborhood exposure through HCBA. Our including large retailers, medium-sized professional relationship with the Neighborhood Associations within services and smaller home-based entrepreneurs. We the Business District, including St. Louis Hills, South all share a commitment to the good health and vitality Hampton, Tilles Park and Lindenwood, helps to pro- of our mutually dependant business district and sur- vide exposure to potential customers. During the last rounding neighborhoods. In fact, many of our most ac- five years the business district has witnessed tremen- tive members work and live in the area. You probably dous new business investment and established busi- have seen the results of our efforts to promote and ness reinvestment. Companies like Target, St. Louis improve the area, but not realized HCBA was part of Bread Co., Starbuck’s, Noodles & Company, and Lion’s the effort. Our projects include: annual weed control Choice have all shown their confidence in the future of the side walks and curbs in the business district, of our area. Interest from companies hoping to come placement of decorative trash containers in high- into out community is strong. HCBA will do its part to litter areas of Hampton and Chippewa and our annual help maintain a strong business district as it continues Bavarian Fest, which provides free entertainment to work with the community and businesses interested to the neighborhood and exposure to our many local in marketing to that community. Anyone interested in service providers. We offer our members a chance to learning more about membership in HCBA or its ben- network with other local businesses, special opportu- efits can contact Colleen DeGuire of Carrollton Bank nities to promote themselves to the local area, and (314) 678-2340 or colleendeguire@carrolltonbanking. the ability to be involved with the development of the com. Visit the website at www.hcba.biz.

The Flower of the Season | by Jim Lesher

ypsophila or Baby’s Breath or the flower commonly varieties are available in pink shades. Greferred to as Gyp by most florists has many uses. These tiny clusters of, most Baby’s Breath can be air dried by often, white flowers create an airy hanging it upside down in a dry look as a “filler” for most any kind of environment. The dried product is arrangement from a small corsage to used in permanent floral arrangements the largest of designs. and from time to time even become a part of our Christmas tree decorations The two varieties that are grown for that “airy delicate” look. most often are the aforementioned paniculata (a perennial) or the The gypsophila plant has properties elegans (an annual). They are in containing Saponin that is used in the same family as the carnation some prescription medicines. The (caryphyllaceae) the sweet William plant can cause asthmatic or and garden pinks. Grown in a garden dermatological reactions in some it can produce a beautiful “cloud” of people, so care in handling is white to enjoy in late spring. See the recommended until you are sure Missouri Botanical Garden near the that you are not affected. This plant main entrance next to the rose garden. like many of our blooming plants originated in the Mediterranean region of Europe and Asia. It loves high In the flower industry gyp is available year round with calcium (gypsum) soil, so you can see where part of the most popular varieties being Million Stars and its name originated. New Love. Each of these have double blossoms with the New Love showing slightly larger blooms. Both of Only a few weeks till Spring so let’s get ready for that these are protected by patents and are not available marvelous season when God’s handiwork comes alive to the home gardener. Popular garden varieties again. include Bristol Fairy and Perfecta. Although as stated in a previous paragraph most gyp is white, several Some info courtesy of The Society of American Florists. 15

Tax Credit To Help Your Budget | by Elyssa Sullivan, MSW (Gateway EITC Community Coalition)

he Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is a federal you don’t earn much and don’t owe taxes, you have to Ttax credit that can give you a bigger refund. The file the taxes to get the cash refund. IRS estimates that one in four eligible individuals or There are many sites in St. Louis where you can get families who should be receiving this tax benefit, free tax preparation assistance from trained individu- which results in a larger refund, are not. Last year als if your family income is less than about $40,000. in St. Louis, there were $30 million dollars that went The best way to find out where those sites are, and unclaimed by area residents. The maximum benefit what hours they are available, is to call the United for 2007 is $4,716. Way central assistance number at 211 or (800) 427- 4626. They maintain a comprehensive list of all free Many of those who do not claim this tax benefit simply tax assistance sites in the St. Louis area. are not aware that it exists, or do not realize that they qualify. As reported in the News Democrat Jour- Also, please keep in mind that paying to have your nal, “Michael Devine, a spokesman for the IRS, said taxes prepared at a commercial office will result in a many people in non-traditional family situations don’t smaller refund due to the high fees they subtract from realize they could qualify for the EITC. your refund. Most of the free sites file the tax information electronically, and you will receive a quick ‘You have grandparents who have custody of grand- return which can even be deposited directly into your children who may not realize they can claim the checking or savings account. credit,’ he said. ‘Or a relative keeping children while the children’s parents are serving overseas.’”

Generally, a person is your qualifying child for the EITC if that person is your child, stepchild, foster child, brother, sister, stepbrother, stepsister, grand- child, niece, nephew, etc. who lives with you and is supported by you. Karen Majda GRI “Devine said one of the easiest ways people can see Jennifer Delf if they qualify is by going to the IRS web site, 12016 Tesson Ferry Road www.irs.gov/eitc, and using the EITC assistant. ” St. Louis, Missouri 63128 Office: (314) 756-9100 Fax: (314) 842-1014 Taxpayers qualify for EITC by maximum adjusted gross [email protected]

Graduate income, which is typically less than your yearly salary. REALTOR ® Institute For a family with two qualifying children, the maxi- OF ST. LOUIS Each office is independently owned and operated. mum adjusted gross income can be $37,783 if filing singly, or $39,783 if married filing jointly. For a family with one qualifying child, the maximum adjusted gross income can be $33,241 if filing singly, or $35,241 if filing jointly.

Even families without children can qualify for this benefit. Single individuals with no children can have a maximum adjusted gross income of $12,590, and couples married and filing jointly with no children can have a maximum adjusted gross income of $14,590.

To receive this tax refund, you must file taxes. Even if 16

Calendar of Events | compiled by Steve Pariani March

1-2 Bishop DuBourg production of George Washington Slept Here. Call 832-3030 for info. 5 Hope United Church of Christ Wednesday Night Series of Hope - Education and Culinary Program, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Call 353-2288 for info.

6 Trinity Assembly of God Ecumenical Lenten service, 10 a.m. 9 St. Raphael Pancake Breakfast after 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. mass St. Raphael School Open House 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Call 352-9474 for info.

12 St. Gabriel Lunch & Learn Program 12-1 p.m. Call 353-6303 x125 for program info and to register.

12 Hope United Church of Christ Wednesday Night Series of Hope Dinner - Education and Culinary Program. $5.00 for dinner. 5:30-8:30 p.m. Call 353-2288 for info. 13 Ascension Lutheran Church Ecumenical Lenten service, 10 a.m. 15 Hope United Church of Christ Trivia Night. Call 353-2288 for info and reservations.

16 Hope United Church of Christ Book discussion and St. Louis Bread Co. lunch. Call 353-2288 for reservations. 23 Hope United Church of Christ Easter Egg Hunt in Francis Park near the church at 11:45 a.m. 29 Hope United Church of Christ Child Identification and Registration Program. Call 353-2288 for info.

April

3 Bishop DuBourg Senior Citizen Day. Call 832-3030 for info. 12 Hope United Church of Christ 4th Annual Camp MO-VAL Walkathon in Francis Park. Call 353-2288 for info. 16 St. Gabriel Lunch & Learn Program 12-1 p.m. Topic is Women’s Heart Health. Call 353-6303 x125 to register. 19 St. Raphael Parking Lot Sale. Call Kathy at 352-4067 for info. 24-27 Bishop DuBourg production of Honk, the Ugly Duckling. Call 832-3030 for info. 26 St. Gabriel Pro-Life Plant Sale. In the alley between Rectory and School, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 26 Hope United Church of Christ All Daughter Tea. Call 353-2288 for info.

May

8 Bishop DuBourg Art Show and Spring Concert, 6-8 p.m. Call 832-3030 for info. 12 St.Raphael Parish Picnic on school grounds all day. 17-18 St. Thomas Church Annual Fundraising Picnic on church grounds. Sat. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sun. 12-5 p.m. 12 St. Gabriel Lunch & Learn Program 12-1 p.m. Topic is Kid Safety. Call 353-6303 x125 to register.

Hills St. News is a quarterly publication of the St. Louis Hills Neighborhood Association’s Block Captain Program. P.O. Box 190314, St. Louis, MO 63119-6314 Write Us! Block Captain Committee Co-Chairs | Nancy Vordtriede & Mark Daly Block Captain Committee | Brad Arteaga, Bee Danback, Dave Ehnes, Kathy Fernandez, Ray Goedeker, Block Captain Chair Letters Morty Jones, Bob Klasek, Steve Pariani, Carolyn Schainker, Chris Sexton, Herb Wuertz P.O. Box 190314 St. Louis, MO 63119-6314 Hills St. News Editor | Julie Sturma