Children’s museum in the works
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2 | CROSSROADS | OCTOBER 2017
OCTOBER 2017
contents
VOL 13 | NO 10
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
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Community News 2139 Bryan Valley Commercial Dr. O’Fallon, MO 63366 Ph: 636.379.1775 Fx: 636.379.1632
Departments
4
Around Town Local news and events
8
Always an Adventure The view from camp
9
Moore on Life Canned terror
14
Entertainment Is ‘It’ the boosting signal for big studio horror?
15
Automobile Alley Hyundai Ioniq marks another step forward in hybrid technology
16
Food Power up with peanuts
18
Medical Memo Three ways pups can improve your health
19
Community Calendar: October
features 10
Children’s museum in the works United Services for Children raising funds to build family destination on donated land in Lake Saint Louis
12
Nonprofit Profile LINC Community Care Center celebrates 25 years
13
Advertiser Profile RVs: hot now, but cool even then…
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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: Submitted photo
OCTOBER 2017 | CROSSROADS | 3
Around Town
LEARNING ON THE JOB Missouri Job Center of St. Charles County’s new apprenticeship program first in state to be certified by the U.S. Department of Labor By Brett Auten
Interested in
There is a new and growing pursuing a new awareness for a centuries-old career and method of growing the workforce. Apprenticeships have become credentialed trendy for training workers and training in filling job openings and now the Missouri Job Center of St. Charles manufacturing? County is ahead of the game with a new pilot program. The St. Charles County branch Or are you a is the first American Job Center company that in the state to be certified by the U.S. Department of Labor as a regwould like to istered apprenticeship program participate in sponsor. The center, located at 212 the new Turner Blvd in St. Peters, received $255,000 in federal and state fundapprenticeship ing to begin a new manufacturing program? apprenticeship program. “It is an honor,” Scott J. Drachnik, Executive Director of the Missouri Contact Job Center of St. Charles County, Vicki Swartzenberg at said. “We are looking forward to 636-255-6060 ext. 5250, email working with local manufacturvswartzenberg@sccmo.org ers to help them hire and train or visit the Missouri Job individuals who will receive occuCenter of St. Charles County pational credentials from the U.S. at 212 Turner Boulevard in Department of Labor after they St. Peters. successfully complete this new pilot program.” There will be five core components in the registered apprenticeship program: training on the job, classroom training, work mentorship, progressive wages and national occupational credentialing. In all, 30 individuals will be chosen for a chance in the program. There is no age limit and participants must be at least 16 years of age, though most manufacturers require employees to be at least 18. The new St. Charles County program uses a competency-based model which allows expedited advancement based on demonstrated performance, rather than a minimum timeframe spent in training. Companies that hire eligible workers are eligible to receive reimbursement of wages for up to six months during the training period. Participating employers must agree at the outset to hire their apprentice as a full-time employee, and wages must start at $12 an hour or higher. 4 | CROSSROADS | OCTOBER 2017
Photo by Ray Rockwell Chris Caldwell, an apprentice in the new pilot program through the Missouri Job Center of St. Charles County, works for SCI Engineering, Inc.
Drachnik said that based on surveys and discussions with local manufacturers, the job classifications initially targeting in this new program include, but aren’t limited to, CNC Machining, manual machining, production assembly, quality inspection/bonding, plastics production, welding and warehouse/shipping and receiving. Manufacturing provides the highest payroll in St. Charles County. Drachnik said one manufacturer offered to grab up all 30 positions. “Manufacturing is alive and well in the St. Charles County so I wanted to share the love and not let them monopolize,” Drachnik said. There will be a newness and an excitement to it but the new program is similar to programs the Missouri Job Center of St. Charles County have had in the past. “It will work similar,” Drachnik said. “But it’s not the same certification or the same funding and backing from the state.” For more information about program requirements and eligibility, view the Missouri Job Center of St. Charles County’s “Apprenticeship FAQs for Employers & Job Seekers” brochure online at www.sccmo. org/apprenticeship.
Around Town
Deer hunters asked to help in fighting disease The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) needs the help of deer hunters to keep the deadly deer disease called chronic wasting disease (CWD) from spreading to more deer in more areas of Missouri. MDC will be conducting mandatory CWD sampling of harvested deer in 25 counties opening weekend of the fall firearms deer season, Nov. 11 and 12. Hunters who harvest deer in any of these select counties of MDC’s CWD Management Zone during opening weekend must present their harvested deer at one of the Department’s 56 CWD sampling stations so staff can collect tissue samples to test the animals for CWD. The 25 mandatory CWD sampling counties are: Adair, Barry, Benton, Cedar, Cole, Crawford, Dade, Franklin, Hickory, Jefferson, Knox, Linn, Macon, Moniteau, Ozark, Polk, St. Charles, St. Clair, St. Francois, Ste. Genevieve, Stone, Sullivan, Taney, Warren and Washington. The 25 mandatory sampling counties include ones recently added to the CWD Management Zone after cases of CWD were found there in 2016-2017, counties with previous CWD positives, and counties very near where cases of CWD have been found. Find mandatory sampling stations online at mdc.mo.gov/cwd, and in MDC’s “2017 Fall Deer & Turkey Hunting Regulations and Information” booklet, available where permits are sold. MDC is also offering voluntary CWD sampling throughout the entire deer hunting season at more than 55 participating taxidermists and designated MDC offices in and around the CWD Management Zone. Find voluntary sampling locations online at mdc. mo.gov/cwd. Info to know for mandatory sampling • Sampling locations will be open from 7:30 a.m. until at least 8 p.m. • Deer must be presented by the hunter who harvested the animal. • Hunters will be asked to identify the location within the county the deer was harvested. • Deer may be field dressed before being
taken to a sampling station. • Hunters can also present just the deer head with about six inches of neck attached. • For bucks bound to a taxidermist, the cape may be removed prior to being taken to a sampling station as long as about six inches of the neck is left attached. • For bucks bound to a taxidermist, hunters may also leave the deer intact and inform staff the deer is bound for a taxidermist. Staff will complete paperwork and inform the hunters about participating taxidermists taking CWD samples.
through voluntary sampling over the entire deer season. Thanks to deer hunters, last year we collected 19,200 samples during openingweekend mandatory sampling.” Batten added the increased number of samples collected gives MDC scientists a much better understanding of the distribution and prevalence of the disease — where it is and how many deer may have it. It can also help find new cases in new areas.
• Hunters will be given information on getting free test results for their deer. Time-saving tips • Telecheck deer before going to a sampling location. • Have completed permit information ready.
www.dpc4u.org
• Be prepared to locate the harvest location on a map. • Position deer in the vehicle so the head and neck are easily accessible.
Find more information on CWD from the MDC website at mdc.mo.gov/cwd.
• Have the detached head or cape with about six inches of neck ready for sampling. CWD sampling takes only a few minutes and consists of cutting an incision across the throat of harvested deer to remove lymph nodes for testing. Tissue samples are sent to an independent lab for testing. Emphasis on opening weekend Opening weekend of the firearms season is the most popular two hunting days for most deer hunters in Missouri. During those two days, hunters take about a third of the state’s total annual deer harvest of about 275,000 animals. “Focusing on this key weekend gives us the best opportunity to collect the most tissue samples during a very concentrated time period,” explained MDC Wildlife Disease Coordinator Jasmine Batten. “Prior to conducting mandatory sampling for the first time last year, we collected about 7,600 tissue samples
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OCTOBER 2017 | CROSSROADS | 5
Around Town
O’Fallon is second on list of 2017 Best City for Veterans to Live Military Times named the city of O’Fallon as the second best small city in the country for veterans. Military Times publishes monthly news magazines for U.S. military personnel and veterans. O’Fallon placed second on the publication’s list of the “Top 50 Small Cities” nationwide. This is the third time that O’Fallon has been listed by Military Times as one of the best cities for veterans, and the city’s highest ranking to date. To develop the list of the 2017 Best Places to Live for Veterans, Military Times first grouped cities throughout the country by population size – small, medium and large – then compared the top cities in each group in three broad categories: veteran and military culture and services, economic indicators (some veteran-specific but not all), and livability factors such as cost of living, employment, health, school ratings, proximity to top-ranked colleges and companies and other criteria. Number one on the list was Glen Burnie, Maryland. www.militarytimes.com/ education-transition/rankings/2017/09/11/ military-times-best-places-to-live-2017. In selecting O’Fallon, Military Times noted that approximately 15 percent of city of O’Fallon employees are veterans, and cited O’Fallon’s active, 11-member Veterans Commission, which recently worked with the city council to designate parking spaces for Purple Heart recipients in city parks and at city facilities, an initiative which has spread to several local businesses. “We’re very appreciative of our veterans, and honored that Military Times has chosen our city for national recognition on this issue,” said O’Fallon Mayor Bill Hennessy. “Veterans have been a vital force in the making of our city for more than 200 years. We are incredibly proud of the many accomplishments of our Veterans Commission and the Veterans Assistance Office at City Hall. The all-volunteer staff is composed of veterans who assist veterans from all branches of the service and their families, adding immeasurably to our city’s reputation as a great place to live.” 6 | CROSSROADS | OCTOBER 2017
Schools in the Wentzville School District celebrate
Patriot Day
Photo courtesy Trotter Photo, Inc The Patriot Day celebration at Heritage Intermediate included students and staff dressed in red, white and blue, surrounded by local first responders in uniform, forming the numbers 911 on the school’s parking lot.
Students across the Wentzville School District participated in Patriot Day celebrations to remember the lives lost on 9/11 and to honor first responders and community service providers. Crossroads Elementary, Heritage Intermediate and Wabash Elementary held large-scale events this year, while other schools observed a moment of silence and discussed the historic significance of the events on 9/11. Crossroads students visited stations that included presentations by members of the Army and Navy, as well first responders from St. Charles County Ambulance District, Wentzville Firefighters, Lake Saint Louis Water Rescue and the St. Charles County Police Department. Crossroads has held Patriot Day celebrations every year since the one-year anniversary of 9/11, and their event is intended to keep Sept. 11 from being just another day that students read about in a history textbook. “Our students were not even born on 9/11. Our Patriot Day program serves as a day to recognize and learn from everyday heroes – people who make it their life’s work to serve their community and their country, and keep us safe,” said Principal Damian Fay. “It is such
a prideful event for us as Crossroads Elementary, because we show our first responders the love and support they deserve.” Wabash Elementary held an assembly and students visited stations that included presentations by members of the Wentzville Fire Department, Wentzville Police Department Traffic and K-9 Units, the St. Charles County Ambulance District, and U.S. Armed Forces. The Patriot Day celebration at Heritage Intermediate also included activities to honor emergency personnel while remembering those who lost their lives on Sept. 11, 2001. Following the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence, students and staff dressed in red, white and blue, surrounded by local first responders in uniform, formed the numbers 911 on the school’s parking lot. “We want our students to understand that firefighters, police officers, EMTs, and emergency responders showed incredible courage in risking and giving their own lives to save others on 9/11,” shared Heritage Intermediate Principal Dr. Todd Kraft. “We also want our students to develop and demonstrate the type of character the men and women who were our honored guests this morning display each and every day.”
Around Town
Cuivre River linemen heading to Georgia, Florida to help with Hurricane Irma damage
Submitted photo These Cuivre River Electric Cooperative linemen departed Sept. 12, to help with power restoration efforts in Georgia and Florida following Hurricane Irma.
Cuivre River Electric Cooperative has sent eight linemen to assist in the call for help in the aftermath of Hurricane Irma. The Cuivre River crews will be among 154 linemen from 26 Missouri cooperatives who will be assisting in power restoration efforts. They departed Sept. 12. The Missouri crews will be split among Flint Energies, Reynolds, Georgia, GreyStone Power, Douglasville, Georgia and SECO Energy, Sumterville, Florida. When the crews are released from Georgia, they are expected to head to Florida. Their work could extend up to 10 days. “We are proud of our Cuivre River linemen and those from across the state who are committed in doing their part to help restore power,” said Marvin Peasel, Operations Supervisor. “This is just another example of cooperation among cooperatives, one of the core principles that guide electric cooperatives. We commend our linemen who volunteered and stepped up in a time of need.” Missouri took part in daily conference calls among electric cooperatives that were expected to need help and those that should be out of harm’s way. Offers of assistance
came from electric cooperatives as far away as New Hampshire, Vermont and South Dakota. Cuivre River Electric will be sending two digger trucks, two bucket trucks, one pickup and one ATV to the affected areas. A fuel tanker truck from Central Electric Power Cooperative, Jefferson City, will accompany the group headed to Florida to avoid potential shortages en route. Missouri’s electric cooperatives are no strangers to helping out in the hurricane zones. Show-Me State linemen worked their first hurricane in 2004, when Hurricane Ivan hit the Gulf Coast. In the years that followed, Missouri crews, out of harm’s way, have become a common sight wherever the hurricane zone happened to be. Electric co-ops in Louisiana and Mississippi have returned the favor, helping Missouri electric cooperatives restore power after the ice storms of 2007 and 2009. Relief crews are coordinated by the Association of Missouri Electric Cooperatives, the statewide service organization for the state’s electric cooperatives. Its emergency assistance program began in 1948.
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OCTOBER 2017 | CROSSROADS | 7
Always An Adventure
THE VIEW FROM CAMP My chosen route into the mountains was selected primarily for an increasingly difficult to find commodity – solitude. The only vehicle parked at the trailhead was mine – a good sign. After a couple miles hiking up a moderately used trail, a left turn led to a barely visible trail, which led in turn to an infrequently used outfitter’s camp. From there, an overgrown, unmaintained sheep herder’s trail, dating from the middle of the last century, led up to a high camp two more miles up, and into dense forest with only game trails. After eight miles and four thousand vertical feet from the truck, I dropped my backpack where my camp would be for the night. Perched on the edge of a five-mile-long cliff, more than 3,000 vertical feet from the valley floor, the views from my temporary abode were as good as such things get, as the photo above shows. It was a dry camp, with the nearest water source located nearly a mile below. I had filled up four gallons worth of water bladders at the highest spring, doubling the weight of my pack for the final grunt up to the ridge top. No lights, noises, smoke or other indicators of civilization were to be found. Some of the four gallons of water schlepped up the hill found use as an abbreviated warm 8 | CROSSROADS | OCTOBER 2017
shower. Scanning with binoculars at dusk revealed bear and deer following a game trail down on the valley floor. Nightfall brought very mild conditions. My spiffy new, ultralight camping gear, originally purchased for a trip I had to cancel, proved its worth with less fatigue and more comfortable sleeping. Life was good. Coffee brewed up at the first glow of daylight tasted better than any drunk at home. A leisurely breakfast added to the enjoyment of the morning vistas. Camp was quickly broken down and packed up for the hike out. The journey back home was over very rough, remote ground. The route looked feasible on a map, but promised to be challenging. According to the GPS, it was just over five miles to my house. The plan was to walk home and pick up the truck another time. The first miles went easily along the ridgeline, until the north end, which, at least on the map, seemed to provide a path down. A little closer examination of the ground revealed a game trail that wound its way down through the cliffs. If the elk can do it… A very cautious, deliberate effort got me to the bottom of the cliffs without adding my name to the list of recently rescued or
recovered. Several hours later, I made my way down to a developed campground and the road home. Only three more miles… Fortunately, Staci had a good idea of when I would be coming out, and was patiently waiting for me with the ATV at the end of the forest road, saving me another three miles of trudging out, tired, sweating, bleeding and sore. The “five miles” to home as shown by GPS was actually ten miles on the ground. The first day in the mountains was one of the best I’ve had; the second, one of the worst. Afterward, I felt as lousy as after running a marathon. During a discussion with family, the question came up as to why people risk it all for climbing in the mountains. For me, it’s because the pain of not doing it is much worse than the pain of doing it. And solitude is like darkness; you have to work hard to find it. 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.
Moore On Life
Canned terror Shhh.
Did you just hear that? An undeniable scream coming from the kitchen. What could it be? A serial murderer who got hold of the long knives? Perhaps the dreaded Mixmaster Murderer is on the loose again. Or maybe the Wicked Whisker has broken out of death row and is on the move. He’s the cruel villain who takes out his frustrations on victims with a wire whisk as he whips them into submission – truly sick. No…it’s something far more dangerous and perilous. It’s me attempting and failing to open a can of biscuits. Agree with me, these things are death in a cylinder! Does anyone else feel like they’re playing Russian roulette with these culinary explosives? I’m convinced about every third can is loaded with gun powder and if aimed incorrectly, a person could either lose the lower lobe of an ear or the upper lobe of their brain.
Seriously, they should be clearly marked with a warning: Danger! Wear protective welding helmet when opening! I have avoided death and dismemberment on several occasions while sacrificing body parts as I try to provide a tasty side dish of bread to my family. As I approach the mortar bomb, I close my eyes and hesitantly unpeel the protective outer layer while stretching out my arms to their maximum length. At this point I can hear my heart thumping wildly with each rip. Inside I am telling myself, “Is this the one that will explode in my face and take out my left eyeball?” It feels as if I am winding a maniacal jack-in-the-box and any turn might be the one in which the hideous clown jumps out armed with a sharp machete and lunges at me! When unpeeled, I breathe a sigh of relief. One step down, one to go. Like the bomb squad eying each wire and trying to decide which one to clip, I must also make a quick decision and find the perforated cardboard lining and smack it on the edge of the counter before…careful…careful…BOOM!
Too late, the biscuits have detonated. My arm is ripped out of its socket from jumping; my neck has sustained severe whiplash from jerking away from flying dough – at least my left eyeball is safe but the back of my head hit the cabinets and concussed. Later, when I am wrapped head to foot in gauze and bandages and propped up in my wheelchair, concerned folks will ask what happened. I cannot divulge that I have been attacked by a mere flour and yeast product. Instead I will shout, “The Mixmaster Murderer! Run…save yourselves!”
BY CINDY MOORE
Cindy Moore is the mother of three superlative kids, servant of two self-indulgent 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. OCTOBER 2017 | CROSSROADS | 9
Children’s museum in the works United Services for Children raising funds to build family destination on donated land in Lake Saint Louis
W
hen it comes to spirit and passion, the support is there. Now it just depends if the dollars and cents are available to match it. In June, it was announced that United Services for Children has partnered with the city of Lake Saint Louis and Cohen Equities to get the ball rolling for a possible new children’s museum. Cohen Equities, the New York company which owns The Meadows at Lake Saint Louis, has offered to give three acres in the retail center, located at Meadows Circle Drive, Lake St Louis and just off of Interstate 64. The city of Lake Saint Louis has also chipped in, pledging to convert two adjacent acres into a park for museumgoers and the public. The combined value of both is approximately $2.5 million. If all goes according to plan, United Services for Children will use the site to build a 54,000 square-foot children’s museum, including 40,000 square feet of interactive exhibits, plus classrooms for
10 | CROSSROADS | OCTOBER 2017
By Brett Auten
pediatric therapy, early intervention and preschool programs. The museum would be designed for universal accessibility so that children and adults of all abilities could fully utilize every part of the facility, any day of the week. But significant contributions are needed to make the plan a reality. Denise Liebel is the president and CEO of United Services for Children. She said the museum has a $25 million price tag and will be called the Midwest Children’s Museum. “We are testing the feasibility,” Liebel said. “We are having meetings with new and old friends and getting our ducks in a row.” Liebel wanted to hammer home that there will be no tax increase to help pay for the facility. To make the museum a reality, contributions are a must, and during the remainder of 2017, the agency will meet with the principal stakeholders to determine whether sufficient interest and financial
support are there. For August, September and even into October, things are slow on the fundraising side due to so much concentrated effort going into the annual United Way drive. But Liebel expects things to ramp up in November. A conceptual drawing, created by M+H Architects of St. Louis, was unveiled during a June meeting of the Lake Saint Louis Board of Aldermen. “This will be a fantastic amenity for the residents of Lake Saint Louis and the entire metro area,” Lake Saint Louis Mayor Kathy Schweikert said. Schweikert said she, the Board of Aldermen and city staff were 100-percent behind this venture and that The Meadows’ central location went hand in hand with the comprehensive plan to make the retail center a “destination area for residents and visitors.” Founded in 1975, United Services for Children, a nonprofit agency, provides therapy, early intervention, and family support services out of its center, located at 4140 Old Mill Parkway in St. Peters. United Services has been knocking around the idea for three years and have visited nearly 25 children’s museums to gather information. A big crux behind this movement and location is the population growth seen in western St. Charles County. Liebel believes the destination will not only be a big hit lo-
cally but also a tourist attraction as well. “It is a great fit,” Liebel said. “We feel confident that the attendance will eclipse what a study we had done three years ago said, which was 189,000 annually.” According to Liebel, the agency is working with The Rome Group, a St. Louis-based nonprofit consulting firm, to assess fundraising capacity and develop plans. Liebel said the agency chose The Rome Group because of the firm’s demonstrated fundraising success throughout the St. Louis region. “When people said it would take 10 years, we said no way, but here we are three years later,” Liebel said. “When we first envisioned it I thought my grandson would have his third birthday party there. He’s now six-years-old.” Liebel said to expect a solid decision to be made by the end of the first quarter in 2018. “If we do not have the support financially by the community in a way that it cannot be done right we will have to make a solid decision on whether we proceed or not,” she said. “Things have a way of changing during the holidays, and we will keep focused and keep moving forward. If there is no museum, we still have important work to do. Photos courtesy United Services for Children
OCTOBER 2017 | CROSSROADS | 11
Nonprofit Profile
LINC COMMUNITY CARE CENTER CELEBRATES 25 YEARS
By Reva Mays
P
astor Dan Hite founded LINC St. Charles County in 1992. LINC is an acronym meaning Love In the Name of Christ. A few years later LINC purchased 11 acres of an old farm located between Highway A and Mexico Road in Wentzville, and adjacent to Hidden Valley Estates. Building on the property proved a challenge due to large rocks scattered throughout the property until local builder/developer John Kelly stepped in and helped the volunteers clear the land and erect LINC’s building. LINC’s offices and its many programs and services operate from its Community Care Center. It is usually a hub of activity with Kathy Thompson, Executive Director, at the helm along with a small staff. Many volunteers, mentors and donors help make LINC’s mission and its programs and services successful. LINC’s mission is helping disadvantaged families/individuals achieve greater self-sufficiency, with focus on ending generational poverty cycles. LINC provides a broad array of services, including an Emergency Assistance Center, the Hope Learning Center daycare, educational opportunities and workforce development with public use of computers. Mentoring and professional and biblical counseling services are available. First Baptist Wentzville sponsors the Hope Food Pantry which operates two days a week. And the Seeds of Love Community Garden is only a few steps outside the Community Care Center. Recreational programs encourage self-esteem and healthy bodies, lifestyles and relationships. LINC’s Love Park occupies several acres and has baseball, football, basketball and soccer fields and volleyball, and tennis. LINC’s summer programs are popular, and the children especially enjoyed the festivities that occurred each day at the Summer Lunch Program, and the Bike Club meetings. The upcoming months will be exciting as LINC prepares for our special holiday community events. In November a Thanksgiving dinner will be served to families. LINC partners with many wonderful churches, the Knights of Columbus, schools and other agencies for the No Hunger Holiday, and provides frozen turkeys and groceries to low-income families. And Christmas will be LINC’s 14th annual Wrap-Up Your Love Christmas gifting event. Through the generosity of our donors, low-income parents select gifts for their children from large age-specific gift collections. As we look to the New Year, LINC will continue its existing pro12 | CROSSROADS | OCTOBER 2017
Submitted photos
grams and services and new ones will be launched as needs and opportunities emerge. Current plans include a new after-school program for elementary and middle school children; expansion of the daycare to accommodate more children (50 children are currently on a waiting list); and the Community Garden will be enhanced and new gardening classes and activities will begin in spring. LINC is blessed with its network of organizations, churches, businesses, and volunteers who put hands and feet, love and action to work in building a successful community. In 2017 LINC was honored to receive a Community Builder Award from the St. Charles County Community Council, and was thrilled when selected as the nonprofit recipient of Lowes Community Heroes Award. We are continually thankful for all who partner with LINC, and together we make a difference for those we serve. Please visit our website at https://lincscc.wordpress.com/ for additional information about LINC and volunteer opportunities or to make donations. LINC is a Missouri non-profit and has IRS 501(c)(3) tax exempt status. If your family is in emergency crisis, please call the Community Care Center at 636-332-5127. LINC is located at 9 Love Park Lane in Wentzville, Missouri.
Advertiser Profile
RVS: HOT NOW, BUT COOL EVEN THEN… By Russ Patton, owner of Byerly RV It’s fun owning a company with so much history. We still hear from people about the trailers Walter Byerly built in the 40s and 50s. We found a 1958 model in great shape; and after a little refurbishing, it’s ready to hit the road again. Another man sent me a picture with a caption: “All I remember is that my grandpa lived in it and grandma would bring him dinner every night from the front house.” I bet there’s more to that story. We hear so much about quality time. But it’s more quantity of time that we really want. Every family member gets enlisted in so many activities. As quality usurps quantity, there is so little time to enjoy the freedoms and places that make America the envy of the world. If we could only unplug, disengage and spend more time together. Well, in an RV we can. Escape into a whole new world in an RV from Byerly RV in Eureka. From folding campers close to nature to motorhomes as complete as a luxury condo, wherever you go, you are always at home in a Byerly RV. Back in the mid-fifties the Warren family purchased a 1954 trailer built by Mr. Byerly. Thus began a 20 year odyssey covering 47 states. Every summer the Warrens hit the road. Hardly a national park or monument was bypassed. Their journeys were documented with hundreds of slides and detailed expense records, such as: six dollars and six cents for groceries and three dollars and sixty-nine cents for thirteen gallons of gas. You can see the Warrens trailer on display at Byerly and compare how much things have changed in 60 years. Imagine the stories you could create in an RV from Byerly in Eureka, Missouri.
Visit us in Eureka or on the web at www.byerlyrv.com. For more information call 636-938-2000.
Wentzville EDC Business Spotlight Friendship Brewing Company, located at 100 Pitman Ave. in Wentzville, is owned by Brian Nolan and Mike Wood. Opened in June 2016, the brewery has distinguished itself as a family-friendly place to enjoy an adult beverage and food in a relaxing atmosphere. Brian, a lifelong Wentzville resident, wanted to create a local craft beer with unique food offerings prepared fresh every day. The brewery will be expanding its brewing capacity and is adding a pavilion on the property located in Historic Downtown Wentzville. Come share the pride in our city while we work together to build a thriving community of neighbors.
OCTOBER 2017 | CROSSROADS | 13
Entertainment
Is ‘It’ the boosting signal for big studio horror? 1986 was the year for the release of one of the most popular – and terrifying – novels by none other than Stephen King, “It.” Four years later, we got an adaption in the form of a television miniseries featuring Tim Curry as the title character named Pennywise the (murderous) dancing clown. The first movie adaptation of “It” is finally here thanks to Warner Bros and New Line, some of the bravest studios in taking chances on big-budget (R-rated) horror. It has been said horror films usually work better with smaller budgets. Films like “The Blair Witch Project,” “Saw,” “Paranormal Activity,” and especially “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre” have all made their point. When a major studio horror project figures out a way to scare mass audiences while impressing the critics with films like “Poltergeist” and “The Conjuring,” it is a rare treat. “It” has become the next big screen horror phenomenon, possibly for the ages with a record-shattering $123 million opening weekend. According to Box Office Mojo, “the film has claimed the largest September opening, the largest fall opening, the largest opening for an R-rated horror film, not to 14 | CROSSROADS | OCTOBER 2017
mention the largest opening weekend for a horror film of any MPAA rating.” How, and why, did this happen? Most of the best adaptations of Stephen King have been classic dramas, like “Stand By Me,” “The Shawshank Redemption,” or the psychological thriller, “Misery.” The Oscar nominated “Carrie” is a rare exception as a super-natural horror flick that terrified the masses. King’s multi-character development in “It” is highly detailed and delightfully (and sometime disturbingly) relatable. You instantly like these kids when you meet them, memorably called ‘The Losers Club,’ a diverse group of decent human beings forced to face their worst fears in order to take on the being that amplifies those fears. The entire young cast is fantastic, naturally funny, and perfectly in tune with their individual characters. Director Andy Muschiette (whose last film was the Guillermo del Toro produced “Mama”) has created a finished product that is both visually and audibly rich in detail that you don’t experience in most horror films – let alone the ones with a studio
budget. Benjamin Wallfisch’s score is surprisingly lush with as much terror as there is heartfelt emotion at its core. It’s the kind of soundtrack that could make Spielberg blush. Actor Bill Skarsgård gleefully finds his own Pennywise while following in the footsteps of Curry, much like Heath Ledger did as the joker after Jack Nicholson. Skarsgård’s version of the clown has a childlike presence with unpredictability that makes Pennywise all the more frightening. Despite the fact that the movie (wisely) covers only the first half of the thousandpage-plus novel (an adaption of the second half is in the works), “It” is the way a big budget horror flicks should be. “It” photo courtesy of Warner Bros.
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.
HYUNDAI IONIQ Are American car buyers ready to sign off on yet another all new hybrid sedan? After all, hybrid technology has been around for quite some time from various domestic and import-branded auto manufactures. That said, Hyundai Motors is betting that consumers will find their new Ioniq four-door sedan to be the hybrid car of choice by focusing on an advanced rolling technology. “Ioniq will attract an entirely new group of eco and efficiency-oriented buyers in the U.S. market,” said St. Louis native Mike O’Brien, vice president of Corporate and Product Planning, Hyundai Motor America. “With outstanding powertrain flexibility, design, connectivity, and advanced technologies, Ioniq meets the needs of a large and growing group of buyers needing a highly-efficient, enjoyable-to-drive, low-emissions vehicle without compromise to their daily lifestyles.” Worth noting, many hybrids I’ve driven in recent years tend to have a “herky-jerky” tendency during the transition phase of the gasoline engine automatically engaging, thus making the thought of a hybrid powertrain less than ideal. On the other hand, this Hyundai system is fairly seamless during the automatic “on/off” gasoline engine phasing when the hybrid cycles. Ioniq will be offered in three versions; their standard hybrid system, a plug-in version and an all-electric configuration. The Ioniq Hybrid Blue model has an EPA-estimated 58 MPG combined rating. It’s the highest rating of any non-plug-in vehicle sold in the U.S. The plug-in hybrid version provides an all-electric driving range of more than 27 miles. The Ioniq Electric version offers pure electric mobility with an estimated driving range of 124 miles. All Ioniq Electric models are equipped with fast-charging capability. For instance, up to 80 percent charge only takes approximately 23 minutes, with the proper charging equipment.
marks another step forward in hybrid technology
An integrated control box also allows drivers to charge their Ioniq using a standard household electric outlet. Ride and handling, as well as noise, vibration and harshness levels, are tuned towards superior ride quality. The sophisticated multi-link suspension system results in agile handling. Hyundai designers gave the exterior appearance a futuristic presence. The fluid exterior shape emphasizes aerodynamic body trace lines and surfaces. The interior concept reflects elegance and a clutter-free ambiance. The overall logical approach to the layout of controls is intuitive. Materials for the interior were chosen with an ecologically-sensitive focus and are used to create a simple and clean look throughout. Ioniq also features an electronic parking brake, allowing additional cabin room for cargo storage Ioniq also offers the very latest in advanced safety including: automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, blind-spot detection and rear crosstraffic alert, for high levels of both active and passive vehicle safety. The pricing layout starts at $22,220, excluding freight charges of $835. Ioniq will frequently be crossed shopped with the Toyota Prius. 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 manufactures, both import as well as with domestic nameplates. OCTOBER 2017 | CROSSROADS | 15
For the Love of Food Baked Salmon with Peanut Butter Glaze Servings: 4
Ingredients: 1 pound salmon 1 teaspoon olive oil freshly ground pepper, to taste 1/4 cup peanut butter 2 teaspoons chili garlic sauce 1/4 cup 100 percent orange juice Directions: Heat oven to 400 F and line baking sheet with aluminum foil. Place salmon on baking
sheet, drizzle with olive oil and season with pepper, to taste. Bake salmon 15-20 minutes until cooked through. In small saucepot over mediumlow heat, whisk together peanut butter, chili garlic sauce and orange juice, and cook until warm. To serve, pour peanut butter glaze over salmon.
Power up with peanuts Chicken Pad Thai Servings: 4
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast freshly ground pepper, to taste 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon honey 2 teaspoons chili garlic sauce 3 tablespoons rice wine vinegar 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce 1 tablespoon peanut butter 1/4 cup water 1 medium zucchini, spiralized (about 1 cup) 2 medium carrots, spiralized (about 1 cup) 1 cup cooked pad thai stir-fry noodles 1 cup bean sprouts 1 cup thinly sliced cabbage 1 lime, quartered 1/4 cup unsalted peanuts, crushed 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
Directions: Season chicken with pepper, to taste. In large, nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and cook chicken until fully cooked and juices are clear. Remove chicken from pan and allow to rest 5 minutes before slicing. To make sauce: In small bowl, whisk together honey, chili garlic sauce, rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, peanut butter and water. Add zucchini, carrots, rice noodles and chicken to pan; pour sauce over and toss to coat. Toss in bean sprouts and cabbage. Serve with lime wedge, crushed peanuts and cilantro.
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For the Love of Food
W
hen it comes to getting energy from the food you eat, it’s no secret that protein packs a powerful punch. However, research shows certain plantbased proteins, like peanuts, may carry additional benefits. According to a Harvard School of Public Health study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology, substituting plant-based proteins like peanuts for animal proteins and low-
quality carbohydrates can result in lowering diabetes risk by 7-21 percent. Because peanuts are known as a low glycemic index food due to their slow digestion that causes sugar to gradually be released into the bloodstream, they can have positive effects on blood sugar control. Find more nutritional information and ways to include peanuts in your diet at gapeanuts.com.
Vegetarian Nourish Bowl Servings: 4
Ingredients: 1 cup large, diced butternut squash 16 ounces Brussels sprouts, halved 1 medium red onion, large diced 1/2 can (8 ounces) reduced-sodium garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained 1 head garlic (about 10 cloves), peeled 1 tablespoon olive oil freshly ground pepper, to taste 1 lemon, juiced 2 tablespoons water 1 teaspoon Sriracha sauce 1/4 cup peanut butter 1 cup cooked quinoa 1 tablespoon finely chopped peanuts Directions: Heat oven to 400 F and line rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
On prepared baking sheet, arrange butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, onion, garbanzo beans and garlic; toss vegetables in olive oil and season with pepper, to taste. Roast 30-40 minutes until slightly golden in color. Halfway through baking, shake vegetables or turn over to ensure even browning. To make dressing: Mix together lemon juice, water, Sriracha sauce and peanut butter. To serve, top quinoa with roasted veggies, crushed peanuts and drizzle of lemon-peanut butter sauce.
Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats Servings: 2
Ingredients: 1/4 cup powdered peanut butter 3/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats 2 teaspoons ground chia seeds 1 1/2 cups unsweetened coconut milk 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 1/2 cup small banana, sliced 1 tablespoon peanuts, chopped 1 tablespoon peanut butter Directions: In medium bowl, stir together powdered peanut butter, oats, chia seeds, coconut milk and vanilla extract. Divide evenly into mason jars or storage containers and refrigerate overnight. Before serving, add banana slices, chopped peanuts and peanut butter to each. OCTOBER 2017 | CROSSROADS | 17
Medical Memo
Ways pups can
improve your health
F
Furry friends can play a significant role in pet owners’ lives. The old saying goes, “dogs are man’s best friend,” and research shows they may be more than that. In fact, they just might be the key to keeping seniors active. According to a study conducted by the University of Lincoln and Glasgow Caledonian University in collaboration with Mars Petcare Waltham Centre for Pet Nutrition, dog owners 65 and older were found to walk over 20 minutes more a day than seniors who did not have canine companions at home. The study documented three key conclusions: 1. Dog owners walked further and for longer than non-dog owners. 2. Dog owners were more likely to reach recommended activity levels. 3. Dog owners had fewer periods of sitting down. “Older adult dog owners are more active than those without dogs and are
18 | CROSSROADS | OCTOBER 2017
also more likely to meet government recommendations for daily physical activity,” said Nancy Gee, human animal interaction researcher at Waltham. “We are learning more every day about the important roles pets play in our lives, so it’s no surprise that pets are now in more than 84 million households. It’s great to recognize how pets can help improve seniors’ lives.” Walking with your pup can help both the pet and owner get in shape. Pets can keep older adults active and even help them meet the recommended public health guidelines for weekly physical activity. According to the study, on average, dog owners more often participated in 30 minutes a day of moderate physical activity and achieved 2,760 additional steps. However, the benefits of pet ownership go beyond physical activity. It’s no secret that pets provide companionship. From reducing rates of stress, depression and feelings of social isolation, pets can play a
significant role in improving people’s lives, which ultimately can make pet owners happier and healthier. Not only do pets serve as companions in their own right, studies have shown that dog owners can get to know their neighbors through their pets. Pets can even help facilitate the initial meeting and conversation, which may come as no surprise for many dog owners who have chatted with others while walking their dogs. For older adults who live alone or in a group facility, having a pet is also a great way to build relationships with others. As senior citizens are celebrated on upcoming days that acknowledge older adults, it turns out living with a pet can be a healthy choice for seniors in more ways than one. For more information on the benefits of pet ownership, visit bettercitiesforpets.com. Photo courtesy of Africa Studio/Shutterstock.com
Community Calendar
2 – Child Health Day 7 – Wentzville living history event Wentzville living history event celebrating the years 1855-1955 will take place from 9 a.m. – 10 p.m. at Old Towne East Main (by the Caboose) in Wentzville. The emphasis is on Wentzville’s amazing history with living/ period entertainment, food, games, music, arts and crafts. Value the rich educational experience and view our history in the making. Wanting and anticipating your participation in dressing for the celebration. Plan to enjoy Civil War reenactments, history booths/ games, vendor booths – local homemade food, arts and crafts, children’s scavenger hunt, stage entertainment to include educational experiences with wide varieties of music with special guests. 7 – Lake St. Louis Police Department open house The Lake Saint Louis Police Department would like to invite you and your family to the Lake Saint Louis Police Department Community Open House at the
October
Lake Saint Louis Police Department at 200 Civic Center Drive in Lake Saint Louis from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Police, fire, EMS, animal control, SWAT, St. Charles County Prosecutor and The Child Center will be on display. Station tours, meet-and-greet with the new chief of police, plenty of photo ops, food and drink and much more.
9 – Columbus Day 13 – Navy Birthday 14 –Free outdoor movie Grab your blankets and chairs and join the St. Charles County Parks and Recreation Department for a free movie night this fall with “Hotel Transylvania” at Klondike Park at 4600 Highway 94 S., near Augusta. The movie begins at sunset. The Halloween movie is showing at shelter # 3. This animated classic is perfect for all ages and is a great activity for families camping in the park. Guests can bring their own food and beverages to snacks, but no glass. For more information about the movies in the park, visit www.stccparks.org or call the Parks Department at 636-949-7535.
15 – White Cane Safety Day 16 – Boss’s Day
28 – Oct. 28: Craft fair The American Legion Auxiliary Unit 323 will be holding their first annual craft fair from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 504 Luetkenhaus in Wentzville. Vendors will have a variety of items and there will be attendance prizes and raffles. There will also be a limited kitchen available serving hot dogs, chips, chili, soda and desserts. Sign-ups are on a first-comefirst-serve basis. Registration will end on Oct. 14. Vendor spaces are 6 x 8 and include 1-8 ft. table and two chairs for $25. Electric is available for $5. Send name, address, phone, email, number of spaces needed, whether electric needed, description of items or company name and check to: ALA Wentzville Unit 323, P.O. Box 122, Wentzville, MO 63385. For more information, contact Debbie at 636-332-6548. 31 – Halloween
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