THROUGH THE LENS OF THE HOMELESS
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JULY 2017
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VOL 13 | NO 7
Published monthly with newsstand circulation to Wentzville and Lake Saint Louis plus newsstands in O’Fallon, Troy, Lake Sherwood and Augusta. Publisher Robert Huneke Editor Mathew DeKinder Production Manager Rebecca Brockmann Contributors Avalanche, David Finkelstein, Cindy Moore, Russ Patton Photographer Ray Rockwell Staff Writer Brett Auten
Departments
4
Around Town Local news and events
9
Moore on Life Big box blues
12
Always an Adventure The joys and sorrows of a breakdown
14
Entertainment Wonder Women: Women calling the shots in Hollywood
15
Automobile Alley 2017 Ford Raptor a stylish hit for the off-road crowd
16
Food Add sizzle to your Fourth: Great ideas for grilling and more
18
Medical Memo Banish biting season: Tips for eliminating backyard pests
19
Community Calendar: July
features 10
13 For advertising information, please contact us at:
Community News
In plain sight Photography project explores poverty in St. Charles, Lincoln and Warren counties through the lenses of the homeless Advertiser Profile Byerly RV helps launch ‘Mac-Nation’
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Copyright 2015 Huneke Publications, Inc. No part of the publication may be reproduced in any form without the expressed written consent of the publisher. Crossroads is a trademark of Huneke Publications, Inc. Any published use of Crossroads implying affiliation is strictly prohibited.
On the Cover: Photo by anonymous
JULY 2017 | CROSSROADS | 3
Around Town
TRASH TO TREASURE Wentzville Middle School sixth-graders organize a trash can artwork contest to help tackle litter in city parks By Brett Auten
Consider it an art gallery that comes with a guaranteed good feeling. Inspired by a walkabout, Wentzville Middle School sixth-graders organized a trash can artwork contest to raise public awareness to help tackle litter in Wentzville parks and the community. The project came about as this year marks the 14th anniversary of the GREEN partnership with General Motors, the city of Wentzville and Earth Force, where students take the lead on civic action projects. This was one of six projects where classes followed a six-step process to gather community data, research policies, and practices and develop and action plan. And the kids did all of the heavy lifting. They sought out the stakeholders and partners, like Friends of the Wentzville Parks, for support and sought donations to make the project possible. They developed contest guidelines, awards and even produced a rap music ad to entice other students and the public to participate. Winning artwork with a “nature” theme is featured from school-age students and the public on 12 cans in various parks around Wentzville. Kelly Dunlap, an engineer technician with the city who worked closely with the program, said that this was a great example of Wentzville’s mission of being a community of neighbors working together to build a better future. “The idea came from one of the students during a brainstorming session,” Dunlap said. “She shared it with the class and they immediately jumped on the idea and ran with it.” Jamie Paige is the city’s stormwater management coordinator and she too saw the responsibility shouldered by the young residents. “The kids were in the driver’s seat,” Paige said. “They tackled the budget, did the 4 | CROSSROADS | JULY 2017
Photo by Ray Rockwell (From left) Kelly Dunlap, an engineer technician with the city of Wentzville stands with Karly Hansen, trash-can artist Kiley Hansen and Nathan Krankel at the Splash Station Aquatic Center in Wentzville on June 1. Kiley was the second-grade winner of the trash can artwork contest organized by Wentzville Middle School sixth-graders.
outreaching and marketing. Each student found their role.” The program started in the fall and continued through to springtime. On May 1, the winners were selected, designs were finalized and sent into production to be vinyl wrapped. The barrels were on display during Wentzville Days and brought to a recent aldermen meeting. The GREEN Program that GM and Earth Force offer - along with community partnerships with the city and Friends of the Parks - gave the students a voice and a platform to stand on. “The structure of the Earth Force Program and support from the community are so empowering and allows my students’ dreams of making a difference to actually come true,” Wentzville Middle School Sixth Grade Teacher Kim Eckelkcamp said.
“I say to them ‘that teaching is the most rewarding job and to be inspired, is to teach.’ They never cease to amaze me and their accomplishments are changing our community for the better one piece at a time.” All involved reiterated that the contest was a fun and exciting way to positively involve and change the community while helping students hone their science, engineering, communication and social studies skills. The students hope the project will inspire others to recycle and properly dispose of their trash in the community. “Looking back, I’m extremely impressed with how the students conducted themselves,” Dunlap said. “They met some intense deadlines. I’m over the moon when it comes to their determination.”
Around Town
Forty applicants sought for summer youth job league in St. Charles County Applicants now are being accepted to fill 40 summer youth jobs administered through the Missouri Job Center of St. Charles County. These temporary jobs are funded through a federal and state program known as the “Summer Job League 2017” that begins July 1 and runs through October 31. Participants must be between 16 and 24 years of age, a resident of St. Charles County, and have a gross monthly family income not above 185 percent of the Federal Poverty guidelines. This is an approximate gross monthly income ranging from $1,832 for a family of one up to $4,385 for a family of four. Applicants also must be able to pass a drug test and have reliable transportation.
These temporary positions could be full- or part-time and pay $8.50 an hour for a maximum of 240 hours. Some of the jobs now available in this program are with parks departments, animal shelters, day care facilities, retailers, restaurants and more. “This is a great way for eligible young people to earn about $2,000 over the next few months while they gain important workplace experience and skills,” said Scott J. Drachnik, Executive Director of the Missouri Job Center of St. Charles County. For more information, interested youth applicants can visit the Missouri Job Center of St. Charles County at 212 Turner Boulevard in St. Peters, or can call 636-255-6060, ext. 5251.
www.dpc4u.org
County police dog receives protective vest WWW.ASHFORDMOTORS.NET
Photo courtesy St. Charles County Police Department Pictured (from left) are Chris Niemczyk, Ashleigh Niemczyk, Kathleen Niemczyk, Lori Brickson, Det. Brigid Oldani and K9 Bonnie, Jo Ann Niemczyk, Logan Niemczyk, Leanne Niemczyk, Brady Niemczyk and Steve Niemczyk.
St. Charles County Police Department’s cyber-crime fighting canine, K9 Bonnie, received a high-quality protective ballistic vest, thanks to a generous donation from the family of belated St. Charles County Sheriff’s Department Deputy Chester Niemczyk. The vest will give her extra protection during dangerous deployments with her handler, Detective Brigid Oldani.
K9 Bonnie is the Midwest region’s only electronic storage detection dog. She is specially trained to search for, locate and recover hidden electronics containing evidence during criminal investigations—especially crimes against children. K9 Bonnie joined the St. Charles County Police Department’s Cyber Crime Task Force in April 2016.
www.wentzville-mo.minutemanpress.com JULY 2017 | CROSSROADS | 5
Around Town
A healing ride TREE House of Greater St. Louis brings horses and patients together for a unique brand of therapy By Brett Auten
Photo by Ray Rockwell Lilly Opinsky participates in her therapy session at TREE House of Greater St. Louis on the back of Java the horse. Java is led by John Finch, while fellow volunteers Julie Wood (left) and Hannah Frederick walk along side.
Nestled deep in western St. Charles County is a respite that caters to many needs. TREE House of Greater St. Louis, located at 332 Stable Lane in Wentzville, is a unique setting where individuals with disabilities and their families can take on their mental and physical challenges and unleash their true self in a peaceful and tranquil setting. Programs serve clients from age two through adulthood who have physical, mental, emotional, social and/or learning disabilities. Disabilities served include, but are not limited to, autism cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, mental and physical disabilities, traumatic brain injury, and more. TREE House operates year-round and relies heavily on the support of volunteers. Larry Opinsky has been taking his 17-yearold daughter Lilly to TREE House since she was three-years-old. Lilly, who is diagnosed with Rett Syndrome and is wheelchair bound, has grown to love and look forward to the sessions. “We have been to many different types of therapies over the years and it is really impressive to have a therapy that she is excited 6 | CROSSROADS | JULY 2017
about going to,” Larry Opinsky said. “The first time, she was unsure and there was a little bit of crying, but by the middle of the second week it was like a bell went off and she has never looked back. My wife and I aren’t horse people but we get the attraction. We understand it. “ Opinsky said one of the biggest difference makers is the motivation Lilly has to work when she is on a horse. “When she is on a horse it is the most independence she gets all day,” he said. “The self-esteem alone, when she is on a horse, carries over into the next day and into the rest of the week.” Opinksy radiates when talking about TREE’s philosophy of addressing the person not the diagnosis. The gorgeous surroundings also casts a spell of sorts on the parents. “As much as it means to her, when our car hits the rock road leading up to TREE House it gives me time to step out of the weekly craziness and enjoy the quiet of nature,” Opinsky said. “It’s a big family positive that can’t be duplicated anywhere around here. The volunteers are spectacular and over the top with the way they respect and approach
Around Town who they service. It makes my heart glow.” Founded in 1975 and formerly known as Therapeutic Horsemanship, TREE House of Greater St. Louis is the legacy of three extraordinary women – Susie Duesinger, Sandy Rafferty and Laura Carpenter Balding – who began the program in 1975 because they believed in the benefit of equine-assisted therapy for children with disabilities. The organization has accomplished much over its 40-plus year history growing from five riders the first year to now serving more than 300 individuals annually. During the early years, TREE House leased several different sites, including Three Creek Farm in St. Charles County and Wessel Stables in Weldon Spring. In 2005, the organization moved into its current facility, which is situated on 88 acres in Wentzville. In 2014, Therapeutic Horsemanship officially changed its name to the TREE House of Greater St. Louis. TREE stands for therapy, recreation, education and exploration – the four main branches of the TREE House. Nate Harms is TREE House’s Executive Director and he sees the somewhat mystical transformations on a daily basis. “I think we’re the best kept secret out there,” Harms said. “I tell people that it’s part science, part magic. I think it’s cool when therapy can be the highlight of someone’s week.” For more information visit thstl.org or call 636-332-4940.
WSD Board of Education approves hiring of new principal for Peine Ridge Elementary School The Wentzville School District Board of Education has approved the hiring of Ryan Andrews as principal of Peine Ridge Elementary School for the 20172018 school year. He is replacing Damian Fay who is transferring to Crossroads Elementary beginning July 1. Andrews has been at Peine Ridge for the last four years, when he started his career in the WSD. He taught fifth grade for two years before being named the assistant principal at the school in 2015. Andrews holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Central Methodist University, a Masters in educational administration from William Woods University and he is currently working on his Doctorate in educational leadership at Maryville University. “I am very honored and excited to be the new Principal at Peine Ridge Elementary. It will be my mission to motivate and inspire each and every member of our school family,” said Andrews. “Peine Ridge is bursting with great potential to far exceed expectations and to produce learners and leaders who refuse to be average. As the principal, I will be personally challenged and motivated to grow our school by growing every child, every day, based on their unique learner profiles.” Andrews lives with his wife Jennifer and daughters Zaya and Amzie in Foristell, Missouri. Photo courtesy Wentzville School District
Want to Help? Volunteers are one of the most critical elements at TREE House of Greater St. Louis. For every one client, anywhere from three-to-four volunteers are needed. TREE House relies heavily on over 250 active volunteers each year but they could always use more. Volunteers must be at least 14 years of age and prior horse experience is NOT necessary. If you are interested in finding out more about volunteering, you can email Kathy Castellitto at volunteer@thstl.org or call 636-332-4940 x. 211. To register to be a volunteer, you will need to download, complete, and return the volunteer registration packet, which can be found at thstl.org.
Wentzville EDC Business Spotlight Van’s Hallmark at 518 W. Pearce Blvd. has been in the City of Wentzville since 1995. The owner, Jim Van Iseghem has four locations in the St. Louis area. He has created an environment in his stores to browse and make you feel welcome, with a friendly and attentive staff. The location on W. Pearce is independently owned and operated. The store features Keepsake ornaments (July 15 premier event), prints and the Simply Southern collection. You can also get items personalized in the store with same-day service. We invite you to visit our store and enjoy the atmosphere we provide for our customers.
JULY 2017 | CROSSROADS | 7
Around Town
Cuivre River grant gives transportation program a lift A hot, nutritious lunch and numerous fun activities await seniors who visit the Wentzville Senior Center. And for those who cannot drive, rides are available from the Wentzville Senior Center Transportation Inc. The nonprofit organization’s purpose is to provide transportation to and from the senior center, located at 506 S. Linn in Wentzville. Thanks to a $1,500 Operation Round Up grant, the program has additional funds to support its mission. The grant funds will cover vehicle maintenance, gas and driver stipends. At least one regular visitor to the senior center, now in her 90s, has been using the service for at least 25 years. “If it wasn’t for the van, she would not be here,” said Carol PowelsonMerz, senior center director. The transportation service is available only to adults who are 60 years and older and reside within a 10-mile radius of the senior center. Lunch is served from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Monday through Friday at the senior center. The facility is open weekdays from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Some of the activities held include bingo, trivia, dancing and games. The group’s intent is to help seniors remain independent by being able to leave their home to enjoy a meal and stay active. Twice a week, after visiting the senior center, riders can go shopping in Wentzville to purchase groceries or other necessities. The transportation program averages 20 to 25 riders each month. Wentzville Senior Center Transportation Inc. is overseen by a volun-
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Submitted photo The Wentzville Senior Center Transportation Inc. recently received a $1,500 Operation Round Up grant to help cover expenses for providing services to adults 60 years and older. Pictured above are members of the transportation board and Frank Klaas (back row far left), member of the Cuivre River Electric Community Trust Board.
teer board that meets monthly. All of its funding comes from fundraisers, donations and grants. The transportation board is a separate entity of the senior center. “Our goal is to have a reliable vehicle to provide this sustainable service,” said Joyce Zollmann, the group’s treasurer. “We request a $4 donation for each day’s transportation, however, no one is turned away because they can’t pay.”
St. Charles County girl represents Missouri in July Brenna Wagoner of St. Charles County was recently named World’s Junior Teen Miss Missouri Tourism after competing in the state finals in Maryville. World’s Miss Tourism is an international program that promotes community outreach, poise, confidence, and personal development while bringing attention to area highlights of the candidates home states or countries. Brenna’s favorite thing about tourism in Missouri is all the wonderful state parks and interesting caves you can visit. She is a seventh grader and enjoys being a member of St. Peters Figure Skating Association, her school band and Girl Scouts. In her spare time she enjoys camping, reading, crafting, and making homemade body care products. She is active in many community service projects, but her favorite endeavor is helping animals in need.
Submitted photo Brenna Wagoner of St. Charles County was recently named World’s Junior Teen Miss Missouri Tourism
Brenna will compete in July against other state Junior Teen representatives in Tennessee for the international title of World’s Junior Teen Miss Tourism.
Moore On Life
Big box blues Note to self: never send husband shopping for groceries! Addendum to note to self: especially when he has access to a big box store! There are two things men should not be entrusted with at the same time: car keys and access to the grocery store. My husband was going to the hardware store to salivate over tools, lumber and mulch, and decided to be helpful and offered to stop off at the grocery store too, since it was in the vicinity. I heard him plainly, but feigned deafness and avoided eye contact as I scrambled off and hid in the other room. Hopefully, he would forget the offer and leave. Besides, this would give him more time to spend in the plumbing section to ogle over PVC pipe fittings. No such luck, he found me in the closet wedged behind the heavy winter coats and further insisted on being helpful. Hmmm, why so accommodating? He must have broken one of my Elvis collector plates by warming up leftovers on it in the microwave, or perhaps he found my stash of emergency treats and wolfed down all the dark chocolate-covered cashews! Beast! “Okay, okay,” I said. “Give me a second to write a list.” He did not have time for such nonsense. Silly me, I forgot. Real men do not need lists and can store everything in their brains. “Lists are for sissy-boys,” my unsissified man told me. “I got it all right up here,” he said, tapping a finger to the side of his head.
I checked to see if anything was written on his scalp. Nothing. We were in trouble! I slowly went over the few basic needs: eggs, bread and mayonnaise. He rattled them back to me incorrectly. “No! Let me write a list. You’ve already forgotten.” “It’ll come back to me.” “Okay, but whatever you do…do not go to one of those mega-jumbo giant stuff stores. Go to the normal-sized stuff store!” I said as he shut the door and waved me off. Two hours later he lugged back a jar of pickles in a vat big enough to go hot tubbing in and ketchup in what looked like ten-gallon gas cans. He then hauled in a towering pyramid of TP and brought nothing on the verbal list I gave him. “What’s this? I just bought pickles and ketchup and we already have tons of TP. What are you planning on doing, re-wrapping all of Egypt’s mummies?” “Great idea!” he said. “Plus, if they get a serious bout of the runs…win, win!” Note to self: hide husband’s car keys in the bottom of pickle jar. BY CINDY MOORE
Cindy Moore is the mother of three superlative kids, servant of two selfindulgent felines and wife to one nifty husband. Her ficticious occupation? Archeological Humorist: someone who unearths absurdity and hilarity in strange and unusual places including public restrooms, the lint filter, and church meetings. Most recently, she excavated a find in her neighbor’s bird feeder.
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IN PLAIN SIGHT
Photography project explores poverty in St. Charles, Lincoln and Warren counties through the lenses of the homeless
It’s a point a view rarely expressed. A look behind the eyes of the discarded and overlooked. The Sts. Joachim and Ann Care Service recently unveiled “In Plain Sight – Homelessness Exposed” a photography art project with the aim to create poverty awareness in St. Charles, Lincoln and Warren counties. The basis of the project was simple but powerfully effective. One hundred homeless members were equipped with 100 cameras and had one mission, to tell their story from the street. Similar projects have been organized and thrived in cities across the globe, but it is new to our region and the hope is that it will shine a light for those who are unaware and help break the cycle of homelessness for the next generation. April 18 marked the beginning of the project with the distribution of 100 disposable cameras and within an eight-day period in April, the cameras were collected and participants who completed the photography assignment received backpacks filled with supplies of basic need items and gift cards for food. The photos share a common thread of survival with little to nothing. Maybe a backpack, sleeping in the backseat of a car and living out of a trunk. And there is a harshness and an isolation paired with a community and family. “In these pictures, I see people taking care of each other, leaning on each other, loving each other like any family,” Karen Grant, Director of Development at Sts. Joachim and Ann Care
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By Brett Auten
Service, said. The photography collection will be exhibited from June 29 Aug 20 at the St. Peters Cultural Arts Centre and is open to the public. The exhibit features a web-based audio tour – which can be accessed on any smartphone - that will tell the story behind each picture. Through the site, the public can also vote for best photograph, by way of online donation, to determine the winners. Photographers of the top three pictures will receive prizes based on most immediate needs. The exhibit website, www.InPlainSight.live should be live as of Crossroads press time and will unveil the photographs on the first day of the live exhibit, June 29. When one mentions St. Charles County news headlines of its growth, its education system and its public safety ring true. But homelessness is often mislabeled and tossed on the backburner. “Our community tends not to see the homeless,” Jack Lipin, Executive Director, said. “We look by, over and through because we simply do not want to believe that there are people in our community living in the woods behind our homes, in parks, under bridges and in their cars on local merchant parking lots. We just need to expand our sight to see what truly is in front of us.” This region is known for its hard work. Long days in the farm fields, industrial plants, offices, and schools are trumpeted. A passerby will easily assess and remedy a person’s situation by parroting a pull-yourself-up-by your-boot straps-I-did-it-
and-you-can-too philosophy. “The problem with that is not everyone got to put the same shoes on as a child,” Pam Struckhoff, Director of Program Services, said. “We have encountered many men/women who left home at a young age because of severe sexual and physical abuse, people who bounced around the foster care system for years and were in upwards of 20 placements before they aged out or ran away. Most people have never had the trauma they faced as a child - being sold for drugs, being beaten, locked in a closet, watching mom overdose - and so on. They have not had their trauma addressed and their mental illness has taken over because it is the only way they can escape the memories and pain. The belief is that everyone on the streets is an addict. Sure, there is addiction on the streets, just like there is addiction in homes across the tri-county area. How would you react to living in those conditions without family or friends and you are unseen and unwanted?” A dinner auction event will be held on Aug. 19 at the Cultural Arts Centre to announce the winners and auction the 20 framed photographs to raise funds to assist those served by Sts. Joachim and Ann Care Service programs. Tickets for the event are available for $50 per person. A traveling exhibit will feature additional photographs from the project and will be displayed at local sites in the area on an ongoing basis. Local sponsors of In Plain Sight – Homelessness Exposed include BJC HealthCare, Ameren Missouri, Calvary Church, Behlmann Automotive – Troy, the Annual Catholic Appeal and MERCY. For more information, to become a sponsor, or to purchase dinner-auction tickets, contact Grant at 636441-1302, ext. 263. Tickets can also be purchased online at InPlainSight.live. Along with the Sts. Joachim and Ann Care Service, the Salvation Army - St. Charles, First United Methodist Church in St. Charles, First Baptist Church in Elsberry and Creekside Place Church in Truesdale all served as distribution and collection sites for the project. Selection of the top 20 photographs was conducted in June by a panel of judges, consisting of local leaders and supporters of Care Service programs. Content, quality and ability to tell a story were part of the selection criteria and guidelines. The panel of judges included Wendy Berry (Executive Director -Cottleville-Weldon Spring Chamber of Commerce), Molly Dempsey (Community Relations Manager - St. Charles County), Julie Feast (Community Advocate/Customer Service Advisor - Ameren Missouri), Grace Harmon (life-long community supporter and advocate), Lisa Johnston (New Media Journalist - St. Louis Review), Matt Miller (Community Ministries Pastor - Calvary Church), Charla Whalen-Mueller (Corporate Communications/External Affairs – Toyota Motor North America), and Kristin Williams (Foundation & Community Outreach Director - BarnesJewish St. Peters & Progress West Hospitals).
Photos by anonymous These photos were taken by members of the homeless community in St. Charles, Lincoln and Warren counties as part of the Sts. Joachim and Ann Care Service “In Plain Sight – Homelessness Exposed” photography project.
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Always AnProfile Adventure Nonprofit
THE JOYS AND SORROWS OF A BREAKDOWN A motorcycle-riding acquaintance says he doesn’t mind breaking down on the road while piloting his antique bike. He says he always gets to meet the best people then, as only good people will take the opportunity to stop and help. Rude, selfish folks will never be bothered to take the time and effort to pull over and lend a hand to a stranger in need. While there are easier, and less distressing methods of socializing, he’s right – the quality of companionship met in this fashion is always of high quality. My own unplanned mechanical intermissions have frequently led to meeting some great folks. Once after filling my bike with contaminated gasoline, the motor quit at a driveway adjoining the highway leaving a small town. I walked up to the house, and was greeted by a fellow gearhead, who just happened to have a full-service hobby shop behind the house. The resident was apparently in an admirable tax bracket, as the shop was full of classic cars, motorcycles and an RV or two. A vehicle lift, and a small machine shop rounded out the amenities. He even had an oil drain facility so I could discard the bad fuel. He refused any payment and simply requested that I help another stranded soul when the occasion arose. I’ve been helped by members of a bike club in Alaska at 2 a.m. in the pouring rain. Once word of a stranded traveler had been passed, the crew emptied out of the clubhouse, picked up the bike, hauled it to a dry location, 12 | CROSSROADS | JULY 2017
put Staci and me up for the night and helped to facilitate repairs. They only reluctantly accepted a donation, once I suggested it be used for shop tools and supplies. A friend related a tale of a flat tire occurring in a remote area of the Ozarks. A few questions posed to the locals resulted in a mechanic coming out on a Sunday afternoon. He hauled the bike on a flatbed truck, opened up his shop, fixed the tire and only charged $50 for most of his weekend afternoon. All of these incidents happened in remote, rural areas. Mechanical failures in the big city require a fast phone call to an impersonal towing service, as help won’t voluntarily arrive. Fingers are crossed in the hope that service personnel arrive before the more aggressive vultures show up to feed. However, what to do when the breakdown is located where there are no people? Staci and I had been riding two-up for a couple of hours, on a very remote “shortcut” to another state. The road had a long dirt section, which tends to discourage most travelers from using the route. While still on the pavement, we crossed a cattle guard, and within less than a mile, the bike began wallowing around, with the steering and handling rapidly getting worse. I carefully slowed to a stop, and was greeted by the sound of the back tire going flat. Hmmm... The bike had a rudimentary, factory-issued tire repair kit, stowed underneath the seat. All the luggage had to come off the machine
and the seat removed so I could get to work. The bike had to remain in the paved traffic lane, as the shoulder was too soft to support the machine. A plug was seated into the tread, and the tire was re-inflated (just barely) with a few CO2 cartridges. The plug held air, and we reloaded the luggage, and slowly made our way back to civilization, and a new back tire. Along the way, we checked out the cattle guard, and found a twisted, sharp edge of metal sticking up from the rails. We couldn’t pound it down, so I later made a phone call to the local road crew to notify them of the hazard. We didn’t meet any helpful souls on that trip. In fact, the entire breakdown and repair took place in the traffic lane on that roadway without anyone passing in either direction. While I’ve learned to have a certain amount of cautious optimism in the kindness of strangers, the CO2 cartridges have been replaced with an air pump; few things are more comforting in the back of beyond than a good tool kit. BY AVALANCHE
Avalanche is a functional illiterate who left the St. Louis area three decades ago in search of adventure. He enjoys motorcycling and all things outdoors. He lives with his wife and dogs.
Advertiser Profile
BYERLY RV HELPS LAUNCH ‘MAC-NATION’
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By Russ Patton, owner of Byerly RV
uss Patton, President of Byerly RV in Eureka, Missouri was a recent recipient of Honorary Doctorate Degree in Business, Accountancy, and Commerce from MacMurray College, a 170 year old college located in Jacksonville, Illinois. Russ has been active in various projects to benefit the college. The Wall Street Journal, in a recent article, best explains his motives. “At some of the most prestigious flagship universities test results indicate the average graduate shows little or no improvement in critical thinking over four years. Some of the biggest gains occur at smaller colleges where students are less accomplished at arrival but soak up a rigorous interdisciplinary curriculum.” WSJ 6/7/2017. When new president, Dr. Mark Tierno, suggested a road-trip to visit successful alumni who are scattered throughout the country. Byerly offered to supply the perfect vehicle, a small Gemini motorhome manufactured by Thor Motorhome Company. The goal is not just to update the alumni on the current events at the college, but to gather stories about MacMurray’s contribution to their success. Students talk about the safe community environment which helps them mature and prepare for live in a changing world through the development of social awareness and communication skills. There are scores of smaller liberal arts colleges which are dedicated
to a value-based, character-building educational experience. I attended MacMurray College. President Tiernos’ adventure can be followed through the college website: www.mac.edu. Also, updates will be broadcast weekly on “The Thread” on KTVI Channel 2 at 8:30 a.m. Saturdays and on KPLR Channel 11 at 7 a.m. Sundays. The shows feature St. Louis celebrities Tim Ezell and Virginia Kerr. Byerly RV, the Center of the RV World, Eureka Missouri. Check us out at www.byerlyrv.com.
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Entertainment
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There’s a particular number of directors I have become quite a fan of whose collective work spans from the 1980s through today, including last month’s release of “Wonder Woman.” My thoughts are simply this, I wish I got to see them direct more films than they were able to deliver – at least as many as their male counterparts. Here are some of those women behind the cameras today – including some that have been around longer than many of us probably know. PATTY JENKINS The director of last month’s “Wonder Woman” is on her way to becoming one of the most soughtafter directors in Hollywood thanks to the huge blockbuster and critical success. Patty Jenkins has more than proven that she has an eye for serious action on the big screen on par with any other big name directors out there (mostly male). Her resume is mostly credited work on television, and yet another notable film she directed 15 years ago was the AcademyAward-winning “Monster” with Charlize Theron. To go from that film to “Wonder Woman” is the resume builder any director could ask for. I’m looking forward to see the next film Jenkins signs up for. KATHRYN BIGALOW She’s a director that’s been around since the early eighties with movies like “The Loveless” (1981) to her most recent Academy-Award-nominated success “Zero Dark Thirty” (2012). She has made testosterone14 | CROSSROADS | JULY 2017
heavy films, like the time when she became the first – and currently the only – woman to receive the Academy Award for Best Director for the Best-Picture-winning “The Hurt Locker” (2008). She’s also helmed the Keanu Reeves cult favorite “Point Break” (1991) and the Harrison Ford led “K19: The Widowmaker” (2002). Thrillers are her thing and probably always will be. She’s even directed a very unique western/horror vampire flick, the overlooked “Near Dark” (1987) featuring one of the nastiest of bloodsuckers played by none other than the late Bill Paxton. Her next film – due to be released next month – is the true story about the 1967 police raid that resulted in one of history’s biggest citizen uprisings in the U.S. called “Detroit.” PENNY MARSHALL She’s an actress who occasionally has directed some successful films, including the one that paved the way for Tom Hanks’ first Academy Award nomination .That movie was “Big.” But she might be most famous for directing the 1993 film about the women’s pro baseball league during the World War II era called “A League of Their Own.” Marshall has proven she can handle a large memorable cast of characters, bringing out the best out of everyone in the cast. Marshall also shows us she has a natural eye
for the “dirt in the skirt” action on the diamond giving this film everything you could ask for. As a bonus, one of the most famous lines in film was produced here. “There’s no crying in baseball!” NORA EPHRON Her writing brought her fame in the RobReiner-directed comedy “When Harry Met Sally,” but she used that as a launching pad to take on directing herself. She helmed films such as “You’ve Got Mail” (1998) and “Julia & Julia” (2009) among others, but her most famed film has to be the 1993 romantic comedy “Sleepless in Seattle.” It is arguably one of the most referred to movie romances ever made, featuring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan as the two leads who share no screen time together for about ninety five percent of the film – which is brilliant. The dialogue between all the characters in this film is flawlessly witty and naturally hilarious hitting all the strengths that made Ephron one of the best in the business. BY BRIAN GUERRERO
Brian Guerrero is a former resident of Los Angeles and a current resident of New York City with extensive experience in front of and behind the camera for film and television.
Automobile Alley
hit for 2017 FORD RAPTOR a stylish the off-road crowd
With a base retail pricing structure of $49,520 (excluding shipping and destination chargers) Ford’s Baja inspired, Raptor pickup truck is largely sought after by off-road truck enthusiasts everywhere. The extraordinary Raptor is positioned in a very unique category as it’s somewhat larger than the standard F-150 yet smaller in size than the Ford F-250 Super Duty pickup. The all-new 2017 version is the toughest, most capable Raptor ever. It further helps redefine a purpose-built, high-performance, off-road truck; manufactured in Michigan, alongside of their regular cab F-150s. Now in its second generation, the ‘17 Raptor spares no expense to build on the nameplate’s legacy by adding more power and torque, while reducing some 500 pounds of vehicle weight over the previous model. Much of the breakthrough is in weight reduction based on the truck’s extensive use of high strength/military grade aluminum alloy body panels. Additionally, custom-engineered, heavy-duty suspension shock absorbers and oversize special BFGoodrich tires further help this truck master most of its intended stomping grounds. Their innovative Terrain Management System tends to automatically transfer engine power where needed. It’s entirely based on various driving conditions and the overall landscape. Engineered by Ford’s Performance Division, Raptor has a uniquelysculpted outer body design with a robust flair about it. The overall profile mimics a desert racer that not only conveys a vision of performance, but has functional gains from its wider track, aggressive stance and flared wheel arches. In the simplest terms, it’s as if their F-150 truck was put on a diet of steroids and re-badged as a Raptor. At the rear, the duel oversized and prominent exhaust tail pipe outlets further help support Raptor’s grandiose identity. This Ford has some five percent improvements in aerodynamics. In part, this goal was achieved with the new body design, functional hood and fender vents and under body air mapping. For the serious off-roaders, there are auxiliary switches mounted overhead for easy reach and can be used to control aftermarket electronic equipment. Frankly speaking, repositioning them above the
rearview mirror was my idea, after sharing that thought with a Ford development engineer. The brawny look that Raptor possesses might just give the impression it drives “rough” on paved roads – it’s just the opposite! Its drive characteristics are extremely nimble and civilized. The vehicle’s increased ride height also allows you to work the back roads and trails that much easier. The moment you see Raptor’s large footprint you would likely conclude that it must have an immense engine under its hood. That’s not the case. They use a 3.5-liter EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 that generates 450 horsepower and 510 lb.-ft. of torque. That’s quite a bit more performance than the previous generation, yet the 2017 model gets some 23 percent improvement in fuel economy. With the engine’s idle “stop/start” feature activated, it gets some 15-mpg city and 18-mpg highway with premium grade fuel. All of this engine power is channeled to the drive wheels through their new 10-speed automatic transmission. This computer controlled gearbox is engineered to help with EPA numbers and improved power distribution at all speeds. The all new advanced four-wheel-drive system seamlessly sends power where necessary for the best traction and optimized driving performance. For the original generation, Ford Raptor has retained just over 87 percent of its value. That’s extraordinary for a truck in this specialty segment.
BY DAVID FINKELSTEIN
David Finkelstein is a Master/Skill Automotive Service Technician, maintaining that role for over 45 years, coupled with being a shop owner in that time frame as well. He’s also invented a number of garage service tools for mechanics and has served on both National as well as local Automotive Trade Industry Boards. Additionally, he pioneered “Car Talk Radio” over 40 years ago, starting out with KMOX/CBS Radio as well as hosted “Auto Talk” on KFTK/FOX News Radio for some 15-years. David tests and evaluates new vehicles weekly and also does some consulting with various auto manufacturers, both import as well as with domestic nameplates. JULY 2017 | CROSSROADS | 15
For the Love of Food
ADD SIZZLE TO YOUR A dazzling fireworks display may be the grand finale for your celebration, but you can make your mouthwatering menu a close second with these ideas to light up your Fourth of July. From bold burgers to crisp salads and sweet sides, give your guests plenty of reason to feel festive all day long. And don’t forget to add a little indulgence for all ages with a DIY dessert bar. Find more recipes perfect for the Fourth of July at culinary.net.
Honey Baked Beans Recipe courtesy of the National Honey Board | Servings: 4-6
Bold Honey Barbecue Burger
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Total time: 35 minute | Servings: 4
Ingredients: 4 slices bacon, diced 1/2 cup chopped onion 4 1/2 cups cooked navy beans (or 3 cans, 15 ounces each) 1/2 cup honey 1/2 cup ketchup 1 tablespoon prepared mustard 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Directions: Heat oven to 350 F. Saute bacon and onion until onion is tender; combine with remaining ingredients in shallow 2-quart, oven-safe baking dish. Cover with lid or aluminum foil and bake 30 minutes. Uncover and bake 45 minutes longer.
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Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef 1/2 cup chopped green onions 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper 3-4 tablespoons steak seasoning 4 hamburger buns 1/2 stick melted butter 3/4 cup barbecue sauce 1 tablespoon honey 4 slices American cheese 8 slices thick bacon, cooked until crispy 8 frozen onion rings 4 slices tomato fresh lettuce
Sprinkle both sides of each patty with steak seasoning. Cover and chill. (Patties can be made several hours in advance.)
Directions: Combine ground beef, green onions, garlic powder and cayenne pepper; form into four patties.
Serve each burger on buttered bun topped with two slices bacon, two onion rings, honey barbecue sauce, lettuce and tomato
Brush buns with melted butter; set aside. In small bowl, mix barbecue sauce with honey; set aside. Heat grill to medium-high heat. Grill burgers to internal temperature of 160 F, about 4-6 minutes per side. Two minutes before burgers are finished, grill buns, butter-side down, until golden brown. Place cheese slices on burgers to melt.
For the Love of Food Grilled Hawaiian Chicken and Tropical Coleslaw Total time: 1 hour, 25 minute | Serves: 6
Ingredients: 1/3 cup ketchup 1/3 cup packed dark brown sugar 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce 1/4 cup pineapple juice 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided, plus additional for brushing grill 1 1/2 tablespoons rice vinegar 4 teaspoons fresh garlic 1 tablespoon fresh ginger 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil 3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus additional, to taste salt, to taste
1 3/4 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, chopped into 1 1/4inch cubes 1 large red onion, diced into 1 1/4-inch pieces 1 1/2 large green peppers, diced into 1 1/4-inch pieces 3 cups fresh cubed pineapple
Directions: In mixing bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger and sesame oil. Stir in pepper and season with salt, if desired.
Heat grill to 400 F.
While chicken marinates, prepare coleslaw. In medium bowl, toss together coleslaw mix, red pepper, pineapple, almonds and coleslaw dressing. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Serve up a sundae bar
Drizzle remaining olive oil over red onion, bell pepper and pineapple; toss. Season red onion and bell pepper with salt and pepper then thread red onion, bell pepper, pineapple and chicken onto skewers until all chicken is used. Brush grill grates with olive oil then place skewers on grill. Grill 5 minutes then brush along tops with 1/4 cup marinade. Rotate to opposite side and brush remaining marinade on opposite side; grill about 4 minutes, or until chicken registers 165 F in center on instant read thermometer. Serve skewers warm with coleslaw.
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Place chicken in gallon-sized resealable bag. Reserve 1/2 cup marinade in refrigerator then pour remaining marinade over chicken. Seal bag and refrigerate 1-2 hours. Soak 10 wooden skewer sticks in water 1 hour.
Coleslaw: 1 package (14 ounces) coleslaw mix 1 cup diced red pepper 1 cup diced pineapple 1/2 cup slivered almonds 1/2 cup Litehouse Coleslaw dressing
The only thing better than a dish of cold ice cream on a hot summer day is the chance to make it all your own. Let guests create their own dishes of deliciousness with a DIY sundae bar. Start with a healthy supply of cups, spoons and towels to mop up inevitable drips then fill the bar with irresistible options like these:
A sampling of ice creams, like vanilla, chocolate and strawberry • Fresh sliced fruit • Crushed candies and cookies • Sauces (chocolate, caramel and something fruity, too) • Assorted nuts • Crunchy favorites like crumbled cones or salty pretzels • Coconut (raw and toasted) • Whipped cream
JULY 2017 | CROSSROADS | 17
Medical Memo
BAN ISH
B ITI NG SEASON TIPS FOR ELIMINATING BACKYARD PESTS
Photo and illustration courtesy of Getty Images
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As the weather gets warmer, mosquitoes can prevent homeowners from reaping the benefits of living life outside. According to a Harris Poll conducted on behalf of TruGreen, 85 percent of Americans say that mosquitoes limit their family’s outdoor activities during the months they’re most active. The same survey also found that nearly two-thirds of Americans are concerned about protecting themselves and their family from Zika or other mosquitoborne illnesses. A majority of respondents reported using bug spray on themselves and their family members to combat mosquitoes outdoors at home. Although it’s the leading preventative measure, still only half say it is most effective at preventing mosquitoes from biting. Depending on where you live, the mosquito biting season lasts 5-7 months. If spray isn’t adequate to combat the mosquitoes at your home, it may be necessary to take additional measures. These tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the pest control experts at TruGreen can help combat mosquitoes outside of the home: Remove standing water. Mosquitoes generally lay eggs near water, so once a week take time to dump anything that may hold water in the yard. This includes buckets, kiddie pools and birdbaths. Don’t overlook items like toys, planters and flowerpot saucers. For containers intended to hold water, like cisterns or rain barrels, regularly check that the lid is secure so mosquitoes can’t gain access. A finely woven mesh is a good alternative if there is no lid. If you can’t cover the container and won’t be drinking from it, use a larvicide to treat the water. Be wary of unexpected reservoirs. Natural features such as shrubbery and tree stumps can also collect water, and they may be more difficult to remedy. Keep dense shrubs thinned and pruned. Increasing the air flow can make these areas less attractive. If removing a tree stump is impractical, a professional can guide you in proper treatment. Apply a broad-application pest eliminator. Use an outdoor insect spray or professional service to kill mosquitoes in areas where they rest all over the yard. A professionally applied treatment such as TruGreen Mosquito Defense targets pests where they live, and the company’s professionally trained specialists use an innovative mosquito control formula to treat all areas of the yard where mosquitoes hide, including trees, shrubs, mulched areas and all types of ground cover. “Mosquitoes are a nuisance for many of our customers, inhibiting the time they can spend enjoying outdoor activities,” said John Bell, board certified entomologist and TruGreen regional technical manager. “Most people protect against mosquitoes by using a repellant or citronella candles, but these methods do not target the places mosquitoes hide including low-hanging limbs, ornamental foliage, potted plants and ground cover. The TruGreen Mosquito Defense treatment program targets these places, eradicating the mosquito population in homeowners’ yards and allowing people to spend more time living life outside.” Make regular rounds to spot trouble. Humans are creatures of habit, and that can mean certain areas of the yard receive much less traffic than other spots. Take time each week to tour the entire yard and keep an eye out for potential pest problems, including standing water in containers or low spots in the ground. For more year-round lawn care tips, visit TruGreen.com/mosquito.
Jul y
Community Calendar
4 – Independence Day 15 – Outdoor summer concert and movie Each summer, the city of Dardenne Prairie Parks and Recreation Department proudly presents the Summer Concert & Movie Series. Featuring the band FanFare and the movie “Finding Dory,” the event takes place from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at City Hall Park, located at 2032 Hanley Road in Dardenne Prairie. Movies begin at dusk (approximately 8:30 p.m.). Residents and visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets. Concessions will be available for purchase.
17-21 – Vacation bible school Join Peace Lutheran Church-Winghaven for a free and fun VBS on July 17 - 21 from 6 - 8 p.m. Children fully potty-trained through fifth grade are welcome. Register online at www.peacewinghaven.org or call 636561-8282. Peace is located at 9320 Phoenix Village Parkway in O’Fallon.
23 – Parents’ Day 27 – National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day 28 – Trivia night Members of the Kiwanis Club of O’Fallon are sponsoring a Trivia Night at the Christy Banquet Center at 9000 Veterans Memorial Pkwy in O’Fallon. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the game starts at 7 p.m. Cost is $200 for a table of eight people. Prizes will be given for highest and lowest scoring teams, plus 50/50 drawing and raffle baskets. Soda, beer and wine will be provided. Additional drink options are available through open cash bar. Register at https://secure.portalbuzz.com/ register. For registration questions call Don at 314-6304738 or email collettep9@gmail.com. All trivia night proceeds will go toward replacing the dilapidated playground equipment at the O’Fallon Salvation Army. JULY 2017 | CROSSROADS | 19
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