h and h winter 2016 issue

This special publication brought to you by Susan Brewer Service First Real Estate

Winter 2016

2 H&H Magazine | www.STLHandHMag.com

www.STLHandHMag.com

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WEBSITE & FEEDBACK

EDITOR IN CHIEFWade Brewer

DESIGNJosh West

FEATURES EDITORAndrew Brewer

Self published by Susan Brewer Service First Real Estate. All material herein is copyrighted and all rights are reserved.

Winter is the St. Louis area is a great time of year. Snow is on the ground, the chill is in the air, and there are many great things to do. Our Happenings section will give you some great ideas to keep you and your family busy this winter.

In this issue we also have some great articles related to the season: For your home, we have featured some indoor projects to help to you keep clutter at bay. Your car definitely needs some attention in the cold weather. In this issue we offer five DIY car care projects.

As always we have some wonderful ideas for cooking and enter-taining. With the big game almost here, we offer some recipes and ideas for great game day grub and tailgating at home.

I hope that you enjoy this issue. Please feel free to contact me if you would like to be added to our subscription list or have a great idea for a story or an event that could be featured in the next issue. Stay warm and enjoy all the opportunities our area has to offer this time of year!

A note from the editor...

Wade BrewerEditor-in-chief

H& Magazine | www.STLHandHMag.com 3

14Make a Great Escape with a Specialty Room

CONTENTS4

6

8

10

12

16

18

20

Give Sides Center Stage

Great Game Day Grub

Tailgate at Your Place

For the Love of Wine

Keep Clutter at Bay

5 DIY Car Care Projects

Serving Those Who Served

Happenings


Fall is a busy time for families on the go, but dinner can still be approachable and wholesome. One easy solution: trans form a simple everyday side dish into a meal that will have your family asking for more.

These recipes, created in partnership with lifestyle expert Sandra Lee, feature Bob Evans’ collection of high-quality, like-scratch side dishes ranging from mashed potatoes to macaroni and cheese. The sides, found in the refrigerated section of most local grocery stores, are made with real ingredients and the perfect blend of seasonings to make entrees taste just right.

Find more mealtime solutions that put side dishes at the fore front at Farm Fresh Ideas (bobevans.com/recipes), a club that provides recipes, a personalized recipe box and helpful tips in the kitchen.MacwichPrep time: 5 minutesCook time: 10 minutesServings: 4 8 slices garlic bread, frozen 1 package Bob Evans Macaroni and Cheese 4 slices cheddar cheese 16 dill pickle chips (optional) 1 can tomato soup, prepared (optional for dipping)In large non-stick skillet over medium-low heat, heat 8 bread

slices for 3 minutes and flip over to evenly warm through. Prepare macaroni and cheese according to package directions.Place 1/2 slice of cheddar cheese on each piece of garlic bread. On 4 pieces of garlic bread, evenly spoon 4 ounces (about 1/2 cup) of macaroni and cheese on top of cheddar cheese/garlic bread slices. Place remaining 4 slices of garlic bread on top of macaroni and cheese stack. Toast both sides for an additional 2 minutes or until bread is toasty brown and cheese is melted. Serve with dill pickle chips and tomato soup for dipping.

Orzo with Italian Sausage, Mushrooms and SpinachPrep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes Serves: 4 4 tablespoons butter, divided 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta 1 can (14.5 ounces) low sodium chicken broth 1 pound hot or Italian sausage 1/2 cup diced onion 1 cup sliced mushrooms 1 tablespoon freshly minced garlic 10 ounces baby spinach 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese salt and pepper, to tasteIn a large sauce pan over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter and add orzo. Stir until lightly browned. Add chicken


broth and bring to boil. Cover. Reduce heat and simmer about 15 minutes, until orzo is tender and liquid is absorbed.Meanwhile, in large skillet over medium heat, add sausage and crumble with potato masher until fully cooked, about 5 minutes. Add onion and mushrooms, and continue to cook until onions are translucent and mushroomsare tender. Add garlic and saute 30 seconds or until garlic becomes fragrant. Turn heat down to low. Add spinach and cover pan to allow spinach to wilt. Set aside until orzo is done.When orzo is done, add sausage mixture and Parmesan cheese and mix well. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Baked Potato PizzaPrep time: 5 minutesCook time: 10 minutesServes: 12 1 package Bob Evans Sour Cream & Chive Mashed Potatoes 1 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled 2 premade large pizza crusts 1 cup cheddar cheeseHeat oven to 450 F.In bowl, mix together mashed potatoes and bacon crumbles.Place each pizza crust on cookie sheet. Spread half of mashed potato mixture evenly over each pizza. Top each pizza with cheddar cheese.Bake 8-10 minutes or until cheese is melted and lightly golden. Cut into wedges and serve.

Mixed Berry CobblerPrep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 1 hour, 30 minutes Serves: 6-8 1 package Bob Evans Glazed Apples 1 cup frozen sweet cherries 1 cup blackberries or raspberries 1 cup pear, diced Heat oven to 375 F. In large mixing bowl, mix together glazed apples and fruits. Pour into 9-by-13-inch baking pan. Bake uncovered for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. While fruit is baking, mix together ingredients for streusel.

Streusel Topping 1 cup packed light brown

sugar 1 cup uncooked rolled oats 2/3cupall-purposeflour 1 teaspoon cinnamon 8 tablespoons (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces Mix together brown sugar, oats, flour and cinnamon until evenly combined. With fingertips, blend in butter pieces until small clumps form and butter is well incorporated, about 2 minutes.Sprinkle topping evenly over fruit and place back in oven uncovered. Bake until streusel is lightly browned and fruit is tender, about 30 minutes.Remove from oven and let set 5 minutes before serving.

These simple tricks from Sandra Lee will cut minutes off your busywork, so you can get to the more important things like enjoying fall with your family.

1. Shave minutes off meals using tools in original ways: An ice cream scoop makes cookies and meatballs in a flash; an egg slicer quickly cutsmushrooms and berries

2. To further speed up slow cooker prep time, keep favorite premixed seasoning packets, pre-sliced vegetables and jarred sauces on hand.

3. Desserts need not be made from scratch to have a homespun feel. Dip packaged cookies in chocolate, embellish bakery cupcakes or create lollipops from candies.

Time Saving Tips


When game day arrives and friends and family are gathered around the big screen to cheer your team to victory, the only thing missing is some great grub to make the celebration complete.Putting together an all-star spread is actually easier than you may think. Simple recipes featuring high-quality ingredients make it possible to serve up big flavor without a lot of fuss. Follow these tips to score a game day menu that will let your guests enjoy themselves to the fullest.Create a DIY pizza station. Prepare dough ahead of time or purchase individual serving size crusts and invite guests to make their own personal pizzas. Provide an array of fresh veggies, meats and herbs for endless combinations. Don’t forget plenty of quality cheese, and for a special twist, add some unexpected flavors, such as Jarlsberg Brand Cheese. Best known as a classic wedge, this nutty, mild cheese is also wonderful shredded for a uniquely delicious pizza flavor. Get guests started with this Sausage, Mushroom and Herb Pizza and then invite them to get creative on their own.Top it off right. No game day party is complete without chips and dip. Take your nachos to another level with premium toppings such these Barbecue Chicken Nachos. Other upgraded topping options: grilled steak or chicken, grilled corn and onions, a variety of flavorful cheeses, homemade guacamole, diced fresh veggies, seasoned olives and spices, such as Cajun or Caribbean jerk.Bring the heat. Spice things up with peppers as an added ingredient to other treats like pizza and nachos, or make the pepper the star, as with these Jalapeno Poppers, which blend the heat of a whole jalapeno balanced by the distinctive flavors of goat, Jarlsberg and Parmesan cheeses.

Finger foods make it easy for your fellow fans to quickly grab a snack between plays and save the serious grub for a longer break in the action. Tide them over until halftime with these bite-site appetiz ers. For a little extra fun, use tooth-picks bearing the mascot or signa ture color of your fav orite team.

Jarlsberg Cheesesalami green grape toothpick

Cut cheese and salami into bite-size cubes. Thread ingre-dients on toothpicks, varying the order and mixing and matching ingredients for different flavor combinations.

PICk A PArTY BITE


Barbecue Chicken NachosMakes: 1 large serving 1 rotisserie chicken 1 cup barbecue sauce nacho chips 1 cup shredded Jarlsberg Cheese 1/4 cup chopped green onion sour cream (optional)

Heat oven to 350 F.Pull white meat off rotis serie chicken and place in mixing bowl. Add barbecue sauce to pulled chicken and gently mix together. Scatter nacho chips on oven-safe dish and place pulled chicken on top. Shred cheese with grater and coat top of chicken. Place in oven for approx imately 10 minutes. Sprin kle green onion on top and serve with sour cream, if desired.

Cheese and Mushroom PizzaMakes: 1 pizza 1 premade pizza dough (14-16 ounces) 5 tablespoons tomato sauce 2 diced roma tomatoes 8 ounces shredded Jarlsberg Cheese 2 ounces grated Parmesan cheese 8-10 sliced mushrooms

2 teaspoons oregano arugula (optional)

Heat oven to 425 F.Follow premade pizza dough instructions on package. Spread thin layer of tomato sauce and fresh tomatoes on uncooked pizza dough, sprin kle with cheeses, top with mushrooms and finish with oregano. Bake pizza in oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Garnish with arugula, if desired.

Jalapeno PoppersMakes: 16 16 whole jalapeno peppers, rinsed and drained 2 logs (4 ounces each) fresh goat cheese 1 cup shredded Jarlsberg Cheese 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1/4 cup diced green onion (scallions) dash of hot sauce cilantro leaves mini hot red peppers (optional)

Using small sharp knife, cut slit down one side of each pepper. Leave stem intact and remove seeds and veins. In bowl, mash all cheeses, onion and hot sauce. Divide among pep pers, stuffing each generously. Refrigerate. (Note: Recipe can be made ahead to this point.) Arrange peppers in heavy aluminum foil packet. Grill 8-10 minutes, or until cheese begins to melt. Garnish with cilantro and, if desired, hot red peppers.

Find more game day recipes at www.jarlsberg.com.


Football season is here, and it’s the ideal time to throw a tailgate party in the comfiest and most welcoming place - in your home, in front of the TV, along with your best friends and your favorite foods.

There’s no question that football, food and friends make a great combination. At-home tailgate parties are more pop-ular than ever, because football, food and friends make a great combination. In fact, 82 percent of football fans watch games from home and 61 percent host a game day party at home at least once a month, according to an Analytics Research Report, 2013 Football Gameday survey.

Now, thanks to TailgateAtYourPlace.com, there’s a new one-stop shop for all things tailgating - where you can find easy tips for hosting affordable and fun game-day festivities - including recipes, coupons, games and the chance to win more than $100,000 in prizes.

Use these tips to give guests the best seat in your house.

Pregame strategies: prep food in advance. There’s nothing worse than spending the entire party stuck in the kitchen cooking and prepping food.

Do what you can the day before: chop veggies and pre-mix ingredients, so on game day all you have to do is heat up your dishes and set everything out.

Score extra points with party pizzas. Pick up a variety of frozen pizzas in fun flavors so there’s something for every-one, such as a Red Baron Mexican Style, a Freschetta Roasted Mushroom with Spinach and a Tony’s Meat-Trio pizza. Try recipes for unique pizza creations that are as easy as topping classic flavors, like pepperoni, with more ingredients such chopped sweet onion and green pepper, or even sliced deli meat, tomatoes, iceberg lettuce and garlic ranch dressing.

Finger food rules! Forgo fumbling with formal foods and serve easy-to-eat items that you can have ready to go, such as a make-ahead Sundried Tomato & Pesto Cheeseball with a creamy texture and bold flavors, perfect for pairing with crackers or a soft baguette. Other people pleasers could include Hummus Stuffed Mini Peppers and Colorful Pinwheel bites. And don’t forget desserts, such as Rocky Road Espresso Brownies. Check out the full recipes for these treats at TailgateAtYourPlace.com.

Make sure the field is covered. Just as a coach makes sure everything is covered on the field, serve your food on a variety of plates, bowls and cake stands. At different heights, your food spread will look even more visually appealing.

Congregate on your own 50-yard line. The game is the main event. For diehard fans, make sure your TV is in wide-open view, so nobody misses out on the action. Got more than one TV set? Consider putting it in the kitchen or another popular spot where guests like to congregate.

Have a halftime show. The season kicks off with gorgeous late summer and fall weather, so have footballs, horseshoes, beanbags and other tailgate games ready to go outside! Also, be sure to set out toys in a special kids zone to keep all the little rookies entertained.

Focus on your FANS. The dishes will be there later, so enjoy your party and have fun watching the game. By planning in advance, you’ve no doubt already achieved a winning score with your guests.

For more entertaining tips, plus recipes, games and complete sweepstake details, visit TailgateAtYourPlace.com.

TAILGATE AT YOUR PLACEWith These Easy Party Tips


Pairings for every occasionWhen it comes to food and wine pairings, the proper match can exponentially improve the eating experience – no matter what the occasion. The key is to choose wines and foods that complement each other in their components, richness and textures. To help get you started, Gallo Family Vineyards recommends the following pairings: n Fresh fish: Complement

garlic butter baked salmon or another favorite fish with a glass of Chardonnay for its rich fruit flavor and lush texture, or Sauvignon Blanc for a more crisp finish.

n Barbecue: Pair grilled items, such as shish kabobs, burgers or corn on the cob, with a Riesling for its vivid and sweet flavors.

n Red meat: Enhance the robust taste of roast beef or grilled steak with Cabernet Sauvignon for its black fruit and spice notes.

n Chicken: Serving an ovenroasted chicken with mediumbodied Pinot Noir will bring subtle flavors of cherry and sweet fruit.

n Dessert: Complement a slice of cheesecake, chocolate covered strawberry or chocolate chip cookie with Moscato. The lightbodied, refreshing flavors of peach, honey

and ripe citrus are a perfect match. n Pretty much anything:

Rosé is often underappreciated when it comes to food pairings. From spicy Mexican to chicken salad, pecorino cheese and peach cobbler, it is an excellent option for dishes yearround.

Whether it’s relaxing at home, dining out at a restaurant or celebrating with friends and family, Americans are enjoying wine at a wider variety of occasions than ever before.

In fact, 85 percent of frequent wine drinkers now believe that wine is equally appropriate for casual and formal settings alike. Today’s attitudes and behaviors toward wine drinking were recently captured in the second Gallo Consumer Wine Trends Survey, commissioned by E. & J. Gallo Winery. The survey of 1,000 frequent wine drinkers found that 82 percent enjoy between one and five glasses per week, which they enjoy at a wide range of occasions. “We are always glad to see Americans’ love of wine expand each year as they experiment with flavors, vari- etals and packaging formats,” said Stephanie Gallo, third generation family member and vice president of marketing at E. & J. Gallo Winery. “For more than 80 years, Gallo has strived for excellence and will continue its family tradition of crafting innovative wines that cater to Americans’ evolving wine preferences.”A more casual approach to wine suggests that shoppers are more likely to try new wines across a range of prices. In fact, more than one-third of survey respondents

classified them selves as a “wine adventurer,” while only 3 percent of those surveyed self-identified as “wine snobs.” To learn more about the evolving wine culture, visit gallowinetrends.com.

Exploring and experimentingMore sipping occasions means more opportunities to try new wines. The top factors that inspire a frequent wine drinker to try something new are recommendations from friends, family mem bers and coworkers. Additionally, 86 percent of wine drinkers would be encouraged by a server, bartender or sommelier recom mendation, followed closely by a recommendation from a wine store employee.Not surprisingly, millennials are more influenced by the digital world than older generations. Survey data shows that millennials are more likely to be encouraged to try a new wine if it is featured prominently and positively in the media or if it is recommended on social media.

Selecting your sipsThe occasion itself still influences the wine choice for many. While wine drinkers identified Chardonnay as the most popular choice for casual get-togethers, Cabernet Sauvignon was most often the front-runner for formal environments.At the same time, sparkling wines are breaking out of


formal occasions and becoming more popular for everyday moments. Interest in Rosé is also expanding beyond the peak summer months of June, July and August as more wine drinkers reach for blush wines in April and September. However, looks still matter in the wine aisle. Millennials are four times more likely than baby boomers to select a bottle of wine based on its label, frequently looking for personality and originality. Baby Boomers, by contrast, look for region of origin and tasting notes on the label.

Thinking inside the boxMirroring the changes in wine drinkers’ shopping habits, the wine industry is thinking “inside the box” these days. Boxed wine has evolved consid erably in the minds of consumers, thanks in large part to its convenience. The extended freshness of boxed wine allows wine drinkers to enjoy it at their own pace and the box’s portability allows for easy transport to all types of occasions. In fact, 1 in 4 surveyed agree that boxed wine is best for large social gatherings and is becoming higher quality. Wine in a can is a relatively new concept that more than one-fourth of frequent wine drinkers expressed interest in trying – particularly for outdoor excursions. Among fans of alternative packaging, outdoor events remained the primary occasion for the use of these products, which also include mini bottles and tetra packs. “The increase in popularity of these new packaging options is unde niably making wine more portable, practical and possible to enjoy anywhere,” Gallo said. “A single-serve package, in particular, offers a convenient option for those who reluctantly grab a beer simply because it is easier.”

Overcoming wine fearsAs wine culture becomes more approachable, common fears among wine drinkers are less prevalent. The survey found that fears, such as mispro nouncing a wine’s name or being judged for wine choices, are still on the minds of some wine drinkers, but those who enjoy it regularly are not dramatically affected by these concerns. “As an industry, we must continue working to remove these barriers in order to nurture wine’s expansion into everyday occasions,” Gallo said. “By exploring the more emotional implications of wine culture and sharing these findings broadly, we hope to welcome more people into wine.”


As summer gives way to a busy fall and schedules get a bit more

hectic, things have a way of getting disheveled. You can get your home reorganized and looking great with just a little bit of TLC and some helpful storage solutions. From those stray groceries that haven’t found a home in the pantry to shampoo bottles that linger on the bathtub ledge, these options can help you get reorganized and maximize your storage space.

Bathe in Luxurious EleganceBring a sophisticated look to your bath with organizers that combine stunning design with superior function. Shower accessories from the LINEA collection – single, double and triple dispensers, as well as a shower basket and squeegee – are crafted with crystal-like elements and completed with rust-proof metal features. A beautiful storage solution inspired by contemporary perfume bottles, LINEA is the definition of modern luxury. See how you can accessorize your bath with elegance at dispenser.com/linea.


Take Pride in Your PantryAdd style in the pantry with shelving that is not only functional but looks good, too, with ClosetMaid Close Mesh wire shelving. Available in white, nickel and satin chrome finishes, the deck wires are spaced 5/8 inches apart instead of the standard 1 inch, to keep small items from tipping. Maximize storage space by using the shelving with the ShelfTrack adjustable bracket system, which makes it easy to make room for pantry items of various sizes. Purchase at ClosetMaid.com and HomeDepot.com.

Organize with Aesthetics in MindMaximize space, storage and organization with a pocket door system. The Demi Tall Pantry Cabinet from Wellborn Cabinet, Inc. is ideal for kitchens of all sizes. Pull out units, sliding shelves and motion sensor lighting make organizing and locating items easy, while adding a pleasing aesthetic to the room. For more storage solutions, go to wellborn.com.


It has been said that distance makes the heart grow fonder. When the demands of life make it tough to get away, you can actually find your escape closer to home – right in your home, even – by carving out a corner to create a retreat just for you. A room dedicated to you and all of your hobbies or personal interests can serve as a welcome escape from the real world if only for a little while. These tips make it simple to get started planning your big escape with ideas centered on some of the most common specialty rooms, as well as a solution for fitting the ideas into a smaller home.

Create a space for crafts. If you find your frazzled senses defraying with a little threading therapy, look to create a space that celebrates this pastime. With the rise in popularity of websites such as Pinterest, which feature a plethora of DIY ideas, you’ll have ample opportunity to distract your mind and busy your hands. A room designed to let you explore your crafty side can help prevent the kitchen or dining room table from becoming a creative center or wrapping stationaround the holidays, and allows those areas to remain dedicated to family, food and friendship. It doesn’t have to be just for crafts, though. It can also be a place to settle down with a good book and just relax.Keep your space clutter-free and ready to enjoy with a craft room such as those designed by Wellborn Cabinet, Inc., which can feature spacious storage and expansive countertops, providing ample space to create projects that help deco rate both the interior and exterior of the home, or simply to unwind and relieve stress.

Don’t dismiss cars, bars and sports. If a room free of frou-frou decor where you can just unwind is more your ticket, a man cave may be just the answer. Man caves come in all shapes and sizes, from rowdy dens for sports fanatics to workshops decked out with the tools of your trade.Even if decorating isn’t your thing, look for ways to make the place your own, whether you display trophies from your hunting excursions or decor emblazoned with the logos of your favorite sports teams. This is the room that allows you to relish in the hobbies you enjoy most.If there isn’t a spare room or basement available, the garage can serve as a good alternative. With specific spots for tools and lawn care products – or even that car or motorcycle collection – the

garage can meet the same needs as a more traditional man cave.

When two rooms become one. Whether space limitations prohibit separate quarters, or you simply prefer to share your hobby time with a partner, you can create a specialty room that accommodates both your interests with a little creativity and planning. Working as a team, you can find the right accessories and storage to design a getaway for two. For example, a creative room from Wellborn Cabinet, Inc. offers more than 600 door styles, wood types and combi nations. The result is a chance to combine two rooms, such as the man cave and craft room, for a sanctuary you can build and enjoy together.Find more inspiration for personal spaces and tools to maximize your space and storage at wellborn.com.


It’s no secret that regular maintenance helps prolong the life and performance of your vehicle, but you may be surprised by how many routine maintenance tasks you can complete by yourself at home. Get in the garage this winter and tackle that cabin fever with these DIY car care projects that can be done all at once and not only save money by helping prevent repair costs in the long run, but also help you save big on service fees.

1. Air FiltersNot only do you want fresh air while you drive, so does your engine. If your air filter gets too dirty or clogged, your engine won’t be able to suck enough air into the combustion chambers. Engine performance will be reduced, especially when you are passing or merging onto a freeway. If an air filter becomes sufficiently dirty and damaged, it could also allow harmful, abra sive contaminants into the com bustion chamber, accelerating engine wear.

Changing an air filter requires no more skill than hanging pictures around the house and is one of the easiest DIY car care projects, regularly taking less than 10 minutes to complete. Changing your air filter every 12,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, will provide better engine protection, but give careful attention to seasonal concerns such as fall leaves, debris hidden in dirty snow and road salt which

can clog air filters. Designed and constructed with advanced fea tures to capture and hold more dirt to keep engines cleaner in extreme driving conditions, FRAM Tough Guard air filters are ideal for strenuous driving conditions such as idling in heavy traffic, driving on dirty, dusty roads and towing heavy loads, all of which can put heavy strain on the engine. Learn more at FRAM.com and refer to the vehicle owner’s manual for air filter location and specific instructions.

2. Cabin Air FilterA cabin air filter cleans and circulates the air that enters through your car’s ventilation system. Contaminants can enter your vehicle with outside air and become concentrated, exposing passengers to higher levels of dust, dirt and allergens while also poten-tially limiting the effectiveness of your car’s air conditioner and defrost system, making it impor tant to keep the cabin filter unre stricted. In general, a cabin air filter should be changed every 15,000 miles or once a year, but can vary depending on driving habits. Your owner’s manual may list the recommended service inter val for your vehicle, but replacing all of your air filters at the same time is good practice and winter is the optimal season to make a change after catching fall debris and allergens.

3. Spark PlugsAlthough many spark plugs are

designed to last as long as 100,000 miles, certain conditions can damage the plugs, resulting in engine misfires, poor fuel economy and other malfunctions that affect overall engine perfor mance. These performance issues indicate that at least checking, if not replacing, your spark plugs is in order. In addition, used car buyers should check the condition of spark plugs if no service history is available.

Replacing spark plugs is a quick job requiring few tools, but it’s important to change one at a time so you do not mix up the plug wires. Take note of the condition of the spark plugs you remove: they should be slightly dirty, but a white or oily appearance may indicate other problems. Choosing the right plugs for your vehicle is as simple as talking with the staff at your local auto parts store; they’ll be able to point you to the right plugs for your vehicle. Always replace spark plug wires or boots that are worn, cracked or oil-soaked and reference your owner’s manual for more information.

4. OilOil is one of the most vital compo-nents of your engine’s overall health. It allows the engine parts to operate smoothly together, removes heat and prevents accumulation of things like carbon and varnish in the engine. Your owner’s manual will guide you to the right oil for your vehicle, but you may need to do some com-parison shopping to find the right performance blend for your specific driving conditions and needs. Today, many auto manufacturers tout inter-vals of 5,000 miles and longer. However, those change intervals are based on using the correct oil and a quality oil filter, which should also be changed when changing the oil. A qualified repair technician can help you determine the best schedule for your vehicle and driving habits.

5. Transmission FluidThe transmission fluid is another liquid vital to your engine’s proper operation. Gear shifting, cooling the transmission and lubrication are all critical roles that transmission fluid plays, and all that work causes the fluid to deteriorate over time, particularly with harsh driving con ditions. Your owner’s manual is a good starting point; it will tell you the change interval and the specifications for transmission fluid. Transmission fluid is highly specialized now and requires a fluid that meets the original equipment manufacturers’ specifications.


To view all of our current listings or to try our Lifestyle Search, please visitwww.Service1stHomes.com


When Cpl. Matt Foster left Afghanistan after his tour of duty in 2013, he didn’t know whether he would ever see his K-9 partner again. For nine months, Foster and Sgt. Mick, a black Labrador retriever, lived and worked together keeping the military compound at Camp Leatherneck and the surrounding area in Helmand Province safe from explosive attack. Foster’s interest in becoming a military dog handler in the Marine Corps came from a high school friend who served and ultimately lost his life in Afghanistan. “I’d always loved dogs and this seemed like a good fit for me,” he said. “Only a certain number of dogs are assigned to a unit, so I was fortunate to be selected.” After being honorably discharged from the Marine Corps, Foster did not give up in his quest to adopt Mick. The 7-year-old Lab had been discharged for medical reasons and Foster said he lost count of the number of adoption forms he sent attempting to be reunited with his dog. “It is very difficult for a Marine infantry K-9 handler to keep his dog when he returns from active duty over-seas,” Foster recalled. “Once back in California, the dogs go on a truck to North Carolina to be redeployed, and generally we never see them again.” That, in fact, is what happened with one of Foster’s two explosives detection dogs. “Macey, a chocolate Lab, was my first dog and Mick joined us later,” he said. “Macey and Mick were my babies; we lived, ate and slept together for more than a year.” Ultimately, Foster’s quest to reconnect with Mick was successful, and they are together again living in Colorado. “When I first got Mick back, I was worried that I might not be able to take care of him,” he recalled. “After what you go through with your dog in the serv ice and then adopt them afterward, you wouldn’t want to say goodbye to your partner because you couldn’t afford to take care of him.” Once military and police dogs retire, with no guar anteed pension for their medical care, the burden and cost of care often fall solely on their caregivers. Now an advocate for military dog adoption, Foster has joined The Sage Foun dation for Dogs Who Serve and the RIMADYL K-9 Courage program to help other retired military dogs and handlers. The RIMADYL K-9 Courage Program is a charitable healthcare donation program that, together with The Sage Foundation and National Police Dog


Foundation, provides financial and in-kind product donations of $150,000 annu ally to support the veterinary needs for up to 500 retired police and military K-9s. “I’m a big believer in the power of the human-animal bond, and I think anyone who loves a dog can relate to that special relationship,” said J. Michael McFarland, DVM, DAPVP, Group Director, Companion Animal Marketing for Zoetis, the company behind the program. “But it goes to another level with these former working dogs. I think it’s difficult for most of us to even com prehend how special that relationship is.” Foster agrees: “I know firsthand the wear and tear on these dogs while they are in service, and having a program to help offset their medical needs is very helpful.”

Cpl. Matt Foster and K-9 partner Sgt. Mick

Since the Revolutionary War, the U.S. military has been using working dogs as messengers, sentries, scouts and mine detectors. An estimated 1,775 military dogs are actively working to protect military personnel. Each dog saves as many as 150-200 service men and women by detecting explosives and hidden weapons caches. In an average year, 300-400 dogs retire, but it’s not required that a military dog serving overseas be returned to the United States at retirement. Legislation is pending in Congress to mandate their return for U.S. adoption. The Sage Foundation for Dogs Who Serve (www.sagefoundationfordogs.org) works to promote the welfare of dogs who have faithfully served in wars, police work, crime pre vention and rescue. Their work includes educa tion and public awareness, as well as making medical care available for these hero dogs. Today, law enforcement dogs are used at the local, county, state and federal levels, and are considered full-fledged police officers. Unlike their human counterparts, however, these officers do not receive a pension. With a mission of making K-9 teams mission-ready and self-sustaining, the National Police Dog Foundation (www.nationalpolicedogfoundation.org) provides funding for the purchase, training and medical needs for police dogs through retirement. You can help Learn how you can support retired police and military dogs at www.rimadylk9courage.com.

K-9S in ServiCe

Officerwithoutapension Despite being considered an officer of his county’s sheriff’s office, Dano is another retired working dog whose veterinary needs and expenses will mount after retirement. “Dano is an extraordinary dog,” said Senior Deputy Sheriff Danielle Delpit of her K-9 partner. “He’s been injured, tazed and involved in two critical incidents.” One of those incidents resulted in Dano saving his human partner’s life. For his bravery, the German shepherd received the first National Police Dog Foundation Hero Award. Recently, Delpit noticed that Dano, now 7 1/2 years old, was slowing down and she reluctantly decided it was time for him to retire. “As his handler, I am look ing out for his best interests first. He couldn’t jump into the car like he used to, I could tell he was in pain,” she said. After Dano’s retirement, it became Delpit’s responsibility to care for him. “While on active duty, Dano’s veterinary care was covered. But now that he is retired, it is up to me,” she explained. “Dano has injuries; he has a bad back and I know he will eventually have arthri tis. The RIMADYL K-9 Courage Program will give me peace of mind to know I’ll have help to give him the healthcare he deserves.” Even before Dano’s retire ment, Delpit decided not to have another K-9 partner. “There can never be a replacement for that one special dog. He’s not only made me a better police officer, he’s made me a better person,” she said.


HAPPENINGSSAINT LOUIS

Jan-Feb 2016

Maple Sugar FestivalFebruary 6Rockwoods Reservation - Wildwoodmdc.mo.gov It’s maple sugar time! Venture outdoors to Rockwoods Reservation and experience conservation success and forest resources at their finest - and sweetest! Visit the Sugar Bush to see trees tapped and collect the pre-cious sap. Boil the sap down like Colonial Americans at the Three Kettle Station and see a more modern method at the Sugar Shed. Taste delicious syrup, sug-ar on snow taffy and pure maple sugar. Learn to do all of this right in your own backyard. It’s a day your whole family will enjoy. (No reservations necessary. Parking will be available at Rockwoods Reservation and off-site via a shuttle bus.)

Orchid ShowThrough March 27Missouri Botanical Gardenwww.missouribotanicalgarden.orgThe annual Orchid Show offers visitors a once-a-year opportunity to see a rotating display of hundreds of orchids from the Garden’s expansive permanent liv-ing collection amid a tropical oasis inside the Orth-wein Floral Display Hall. Journey into a world filled with beautiful flowers and their amazing pollinators. Stroll through the display to uncover a Victorian gaze-bo, pollinators of all shapes and sizes, and, of course, hundreds of orchids.

Audubon Eagle WatchJanuary 31 & February 7Riverlands Migratory Bird Sactuary, West Altonwww.riverlands.audubon.orgYou’re guaranteed to see at least one eagle if you make this day an eagle watching adventure. The World Bird Sanctuary will be bringing a live bald eagle for the public to view up close and personal, during this eagle meet and greet. Be sure to bring your cam-era. Learn about eagle watching, how to spot eagles, where to look, and what brings the eagles here each winter. After this personal encounter you can pick up an official All Around Alton Eagle Watcher’s Guide and set off along the Great River Road to see eagles in their natural habitat.

Fete De GlaceJanuary 30Historic Downtown St. Charleswww.historicstcharles.comThis ice festival is the perfect family activity. Over a dozen ice carvers fill two blocks of North Main Street. You can watch carvers bring the ephemeral art of ice carving to life with chainsaws, chisels, grinders and knives, as well as hot irons and cold spray. Each carver starts with a single block of ice weighing 260 lbs. and dissects it and reassembles it into wondrous sparkling creations. There are outdoor fire pits, restaurants serv-ing breakfast or lunch and shops to wander in to help you stay warm. Plan to stay for a few hours so you can watch the sculptures develop from a block of ice.

2016 Saint Louis Auto ShowJanuary 28-31America’s Centerwww.saintlouisautoshow.comHundreds of new cars, trucks, vans and sport utility ve-hicles will be on display representing domestic and foreign manufacturers.


MARDI GRASSURVIVING

Everybody loves a good party! Here are a few tips to help you enjoy the fun and mind your Mardi Gras manners.

Respect the PoliceLocal law enforcement has a lot to deal with during Mardi Gras. Please, respect them and cooperate.You’ll make their job, and your life, easier.

Dress for the WeatherYou never know what the weather in St. Louis will be...especially in February. All Mardi Gras eventshappen regardless of weather. Check the weather reports and be prepared for anything. Layers are your best bet.

Leave the Coolers at HomeBottles, cans, backpacks and coolers are NOT allowed. St. Louis Mardi Gras has checkpoints and these items will be confiscated...and not returned.

Drink ResponsiblyThis should be obvious. Don’t drink and drive and DON”T drink if you’re under 21. Undercover and uniformed police officers are present and they maintain a strict zero tolerance policy. You will be prosecuted.

Find a Portable PottyFor some reason, 600 portable toilets just aren’t enough for some people. If you decide to do your business elsewhere you will be issued a summons resulting in a court appearance and a maximum penalty of $500.00 and/or 90 days in jail.

Respect Local ResidentsSoulard is a residential area. Please respect other peoples’ property and vehicles. Don’t trespass or vandalize.

For more info on St. Louis’ Mardi Gras celebration, visit www.MardiGrasInc.com

Mardi Gras STL (Dates Vary)Through February 9Historic Soulard Neighborhoodwww.stlmardigras.orgThe Gateway City celebrates its French heritage with fun filled activities throughout the historic Soulard neighborhood. Events include a Wine, Beer & Whis-key Taste (22), Cajun Cook-Off (23), Taste of Soulard (30-31), Beggin’ Pet Parade and PetSmart Wiener Dog Derby (31), Mayor’s Ball (5), Bud Light Grand Parade (6) and Fat Bluesday (9).

St. Louis Boat and SportshowFebruary 24-28America’s Centerwww.stlouisboatshow.comThis event features hundreds of boats to shop, from pontoons and fishing boats to luxury cruisers, plus the latest and greatest in outdoor accessories and numer-ous attractions for all ages.

St. Charles Boat ShowFebruary 25-28St. Charles Convention Centerwww.lakeozarkboatdealers.comJoin all of your favorite Marine Dealers from the Lake of the Ozarks at the St. Charles Convention Center. See the latest in cruisers, runabouts, performance boats, pontoons, ski boats, personal watercraft, docks, lifts, and boating accessories all at one show.

St. Louis Centennial Beer FestivalFebruary 25-27Moulin Events and Meetingswww.centennialbeerfestival.comFeaturing more than 200 beers from 25 local brewers plus the best domestic and international breweries.

Susan Brewer314.540.0734

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Lori Pisani636.578.7781

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Russ Schmidt636.634.6558

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Fred Figura314.277.1925

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