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Asafe and spooky Halloween

OCTOBER

2020 writers

VOL 16 | NO 10

BY AVALANCHE

Published monthly with newsstand circulation to Wentzville and Lake Saint Louis plus newsstands in O’Fallon, Troy, Lake Sherwood and Augusta.

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.

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Mathew DeKinder Publisher Emeritus/ General Manager Robert Huneke

ALWAYS AN ADVENTURE – PG. 12

BY CINDY MOORE

MOORE ON LIFE – PG. 13

Production Manager Rebecca Brockmann Contributors Avalanche, David Finkelstein, Cindy Moore Staff Writer Brett Auten

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.

BY DAVID FINKELSTEIN

For advertising information, please contact us at:

Community News 2139 Bryan Valley Commercial Dr. O’Fallon, MO 63366 Ph: 636.379.1775 Fx: 636.379.1632

www.mycnews.com

Copyright 2019 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.

David Finkelstein is a Master/ Skill Automotive Service Technician and a shop owner. He’s also invented garage service tools for mechanics and has served on both National and local Automotive Trade Industry Boards. He pioneered “Car Talk Radio” starting out with KMOX/CBS Radio and hosted “Auto Talk” on KFTK/FOX News Radio for 15-years. David tests and evaluates new vehicles weekly and does some consulting with various auto manufacturers.

AUTOMOBILE ALLEY – PG. 14

BY STEVE BRYAN

ENTERTAINMENT – PG. 15

2 | CROSSROADS | OCTOBER 2020

Born and raised in South St. Louis, Steve Bryan is now based in Anaheim, California, and has been allowed access to movie and television sets to see actors and directors at work. Though his writing has taken him far from St. Louis, Steve is, at heart, still the same wide-eyed kid who spent countless hours watching classic movies at neighborhood theaters.

OCTOBER 5

2020

contents

Around Town Local news and events

Feature Story A safe and spooky Halloween All ages are welcome to participate in spooktacular weekend events hosted by St. Charles County Parks during the month of October

Always an Adventure Helicopter drop

Moore on Life King of terror

Automobile Alley 2021 Lexus LC500 luxury Sports Coupe is both captivating and stunning

Entertainment ‘Brian’s Song’ and other classic TV sports films

For the Love of Food Scary Good: Take the fear out of trying unfamiliar produce

Community Calendar: October

On the Cover: Submitted photo

OCTOBER 2020 | CROSSROADS | 3

Around Town

County parks set record attendance while maintaining pandemic safety Despite limiting program participants and postponing some events because of the COVID-19 pandemic, St. Charles County Parks already has had a record year for attendance. The county’s 17 parks surpassed the three million mark at the end of August, and in July, topped the previous record high set last year at more than 2.5 million. “While other parks in the region have closed, we have remained open,” says County Executive Steve Ehlmann. “We have had very few issues with people not complying with our requests to social distance and they appreciate our extra efforts to ensure their safety. Our park programmers have designed or changed classes and events to accommodate social distancing and our park workers have done an excellent job of ensuring visitors social distance by monitoring and restricting the number of visitors to popular park areas. I greatly appreciate their continued efforts to keep residents and visitors as safe as possible.” With nearly 4,000 acres of St. Charles County parkland, there is plenty of space for people to enjoy the outdoors while maintaining appropriate distance from others. Outdoor shelters have remained open, and when people make reservations, they are reminded to take precautions. Indoor venues require renters to fill out a special form that outlines their plan for use during the pandemic. Events and activities are monitored by park rangers, St. Charles County Police and park maintenance staff. Additional precautionary measures include cleaning all bathrooms in every park multiple times daily; drinking fountains are closed until further notice.

WWW.DARDENNEPRAIRIE.ORG

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The addition of three new parks in 2018 have contributed greatly to the increase in visitors this year, as they did in 2019. In August 2018, the parks department opened Riverside Landing, a 7.73-acre park with river access located between Kampville Drive and Huster Road in St. Charles, and in September 2018, opened The Park at New Melle Lakes, a 153-acre former golf course in New Melle that offers fishing, kayaking and canoeing, disc golf, trails and more. In October 2018, the 120-acre Veterans Tribute Park opened in Weldon Spring, offering a destination playground for children of all abilities, the Veterans Memorial Garden, and fishing, trails, a dog park, and shelters. “Nature is comforting, and it provides people with the ability to disconnect and decompress,” says Ryan Graham, Director of St. Charles County Parks. ”We have received a lot of positive feedback over the last several months. Many visitors are finding our parks for the first time, and we’ve heard from others who visited before but didn’t realize all we have to offer.” While Veterans Tribute Park continues to be the most visited park in the system, the parks department reports that camping at Klondike Park in Augusta, and Indian Camp Creek in Foristell, has been extremely popular this year with people opting for “stay-cations” rather than traveling. This summer, water activities on lakes at Klondike, The Park at New Melle Lakes and Broemmelsiek Park in Defiance, were popular ways to endure the pandemic. Other popular outdoor spots in St. Charles County parks include The Historic Daniel Boone Home in Defiance and the Youth Activity Park in Dardenne Prairie, home to the largest asphalt pump track in the nation. “It’s extremely important for people to have these outlets,” says St. Charles County Director of Public Health Demetrius Cianci-Chapman. “The pandemic has kept us away from our families and friends and being able to do a lot of the things we love to do. Taking away the open space people need in order to feel some relief from the pandemic is not good for our health. “Mentally,” Cianci-Chapman continues, “being able to get fresh air can help us emotionally. This pandemic is stressful and being able to walk or run and just be in an open space can make a huge difference in our mental attitudes. Physically,” he says, “it’s important to exercise. Studies suggest that engaging in physical activity regularly may be beneficial in protecting the body and limiting damage caused by COVID-19. Our parks offer the perfect opportunity to address our mental and physical well-being.” The county forecasts the parks will reach four million visitors by the end of the year. “One aspect of the parks department’s vision is to promote the high quality of life that exists in St. Charles County. This, perhaps, has never been as important as at this time,” Ehlmann says. “And while reaching record numbers are important statistics to keep so our taxpayers know we are using their dollars wisely, those numbers are not nearly as important as providing safe, clean, open spaces at a time when we all need them the most.” For information on St. Charles County Parks, visit stccparks.org or call 636-949-7535.

Around Town

Learn how to survive the wild at St. Charles County Parks’ Bushcraft challenge If you have a passion for the outdoors, are 16 years of age or older, and want to acquire the skills and knowledge to thrive in the natural environment, “Survive the Wild: Practical Application of Bushcraft” is the challenge for you! Join the St. Charles County Parks and Recreation Department from 3:30 – 7:30 p.m., Oct. 14, at The Historic Daniel Boone Home at 1868 Highway F in Defiance, for this one-of-a-kind workshop that teaches you how to think, plan and act deliberately in order to thrive in any environment. Throughout the event, participants will acquire the knowledge and ability to respect the unexpected as they connect with the outdoors and embrace the inner animal inside. With the help of Craig Avery, outdoor survival expert and lead instructor of WG Bushkraft, and Park Ranger Jake Dean, participants will learn how to tackle outdoor challenges by engaging in a series of assigned tasks that showcase a variety of bushcraft skills including, fire and shelter building, trapping and other survival tasks. At the end of the workshop, top challengers will be awarded prizes in several categories that will be revealed at the event. This unique challenge is limited to 18 participants and is $20 per person. The cost of the workshop includes all supplies and tool use;

Submitted photo

participants should bring a change of clothes. To make a reservation online, visit http://bit.ly/2020BushcraftChallenge or call the St. Charles County Parks and Recreation Department at 636-949-7535.

St. Charles County’s newest event and wedding venue opens for tours, reservations What is sure to be St. Charles County’s most sought after scenic venue, the Landhaus at The Park at New Melle Lakes, is opening in October. Whether you are a newly engaged couple looking for a wedding or reception venue, or you’re looking for the perfect place to host an anniversary party, family reunion or other special event, you’ll need to check out the Landhaus. Interested parties are invited to attend an open house at the facility, located at 300 Foristell Road in New Melle, from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 3. Masks will be available and social distancing is required. The Landhaus (“country house” in German) is a one-of-a-kind event space in the county. Overlooking a 25-acre lake, the venue boasts spectacular views of the 400-acre park. Inside, elegant décor, high ceilings, and floor-to-ceiling windows are certain to be the perfect backdrop to make lasting memories. The Landhaus is fully furnished with cocktail seating and features a warming kitchen, reception area, game room for children of all ages, and separate bride and groom suites with attached changing rooms to accommodate weddings. A spacious patio with night lighting can be set up with folding chairs for an outside event. The patio accommodates up to 150 guests and will be the favorite gathering spot for guests. This gorgeous venue is perfect for the “do-it-yourselfers” who want to use their own caterer and bring in their own free-standing decorations.

Submitted photo The Landhaus at The Park at New Melle Lakes is a new event space opening in October.

The Landhaus is available to reserve from 9 a.m. – 11 p.m., seven days a week excluding Christmas and Thanksgiving, up to two years in advance from the current date. Rental fees are currently set at $1,000 on weekends and $750 on weekdays; an additional $250 refundable security deposit is required. Twenty-five open house attendees will receive a $250 discount toward a future reservation; names will be drawn after the event. Winners must host their event in 2021, and their event date must be secured before Feb. 26, 2021. For more information about the Landhaus, or to set up a private tour of the facility, call the St. Charles County Parks and Recreation Department at 636-949-7535. OCTOBER 2020 | CROSSROADS | 5

Around Town Submitted photo Artist Coral Penelope Lambert’s piece Sky Diamond sits at the Ozzie Smith Sports Complex in O’Fallon as part of the Shape of the Community Sculpture Series.

SHAPES OF THE COMMUNITY O’Fallon’s citywide Shape of the Community Sculpture Series showcases artists from all around the country in prominent public spaces By Brett Auten

In a way, Michael Quintero has brought ancient aliens to O’Fallon. Quintero, a faculty member of the Art Department at St. Louis Community College, Florissant Valley, is one of the renowned artists to contribute to O’Fallon’s citywide Shape of the Community Sculpture Series. Quintero’s piece, “Zig Zag Ziggurat” was finished in 2016 at the Six Mile Sculpture studio in Granite City, Illinois. For his creation, Quintero latched on to the idea of ancient aliens as a metaphor for human beings. The stepped steel pyramid form is a reference to the ancient pyramids of Mexico and Egypt. “Humans ‘arrive’ on Earth and then we spend our whole lives trying to figure out what it means to be alive in this world,” he said. “I don’t believe that aliens built the pyramids, but the imagery of aliens building such monuments captures my imagination. I imagine the pyramid to be a spaceship, carrying us as we rove this planet. So in my 6 | CROSSROADS | OCTOBER 2020

mind, we are simply researchers studying our own existence. We are the descendants of ancient researchers.” His art is inspired by the art and architecture of ancient worlds, Buddhist concepts and imagery, and nature. “I consider my works to be objects of meditation,” Quintero said. “It’s kind of like I’m trying to make my own medicine – something that can still the mind and calm the spirit. For me, “stillness” can be very healing. I think this kind of stillness can be personally and socially transformative, leading to a world view (and a world) that is inclusive and celebratory. Ultimately, I hope that my work inspires people to engage in the world with a sense of curiosity and wonder, rather than judgement, of things that may be “alien” to them.” Quintero was born in Japan in 1967 and immigrated to Texas in 1973. He has taught at various institutions and also served as senior technician in the sculpture area of the University of Notre Dame’s

Around Town Department of Art, Art History, and Design. In 2007, he became a Arts Commission and the program is directed by the city’s Cultural faculty member of the Art Department at St. Louis Community Col- Arts Coordinator. This year is the second round of sculptures. The exlege, Florissant Valley. hibition began in June and the city is hoping to install the next sculp“There are so many talented people in this region and to be part of ture series in May or June of 2022. this community is a privilege,” Quintero said. “I am thankful to the city of O’Fallon and Martin Linson for including Zig Zag Ziggurat in this exhibition.” The city has installed large-scale works of art throughout the community that are on loan from distinguished nationally-known artists for an 18-month period. This type of artistic scenario is unique to the St. Louis metro area, and is intended to bring people to O’Fallon and to the various sculpture sites. The city’s Cultural Arts Commission received dozens of entries from all parts of the U.S., then reduced the entries down to the 10 finalists whose works are now displayed. Marty Linson, O’Fallon Cultural Arts Coordinator, said that all of the artists are exhibiting nationally and eight of the 10 are exhibiting internationally. “We have been lucky to draw a very high quality of artists for this exhibition,” Linson added. “The artists come from all cultural backgrounds and areas of our country. They bring cultural experiences and perspectives to our citizens that they may not have considered.” O’Fallon communications director Tom Drabelle said that whether it’s through these sculptures, the popular theater program, O’Fallon Theater Works, or offering unique art classes and programs for residents to explore their own artistic sides, it is all about O’Fallon having something for everyone when it comes to scratching that creative itch. “The Shape of Community sculpture series really adds a vibrant, cultural aspect to our parks and public spaces,” Drabelle said. “Having the opportunity to bring these great works of art to our residents is part of what makes O’Fallon such a great place to live. We strive to offer our residents a diverse experience throughout our city, and a dynamic cultural arts program is a key component of that effort.” Drabelle added that he isn’t aware of any neighboring cities doing anything like the Submitted photo sculpture series. O’Fallon’s Shape of the Community Sculpture Series has one work of art on display in each of the following 10 public The sculpture series started in 2018 at the locations: City Hall, the Renaud Center, CarShield Field, Ozzie Smith Sports Complex, Civic Park, Dames Park, Westhoff Park, Fort Zumwalt Park, Sports Park and O’Day Park. request of the city council and the Cultural OCTOBER 2020 | CROSSROADS | 7

Around Town

WSD selects name and mascot for the district’s fourth high school The Wentzville School District Board of Education has approved naming the district’s fourth high school, currently under construction at the corner of North Point Prairie Road and West Meyer Road in Wentzville, North Point High School. Dr. Amanda Shelmire, who has been named the school principal, selected the grizzly as the school’s mascot. Over 260 name and mascot suggestions were submitted by students and families living in the new high school attendance area. “Our stakeholders’ voice is valued and extremely important to me,” Shelmire shared with the board of education. “Therefore, it was an easy decision when the most popular name was North Point High School and when the most popular

Photos courtesy Wentzville School District Dr. Amanda Shelmire, who has been named principal of North Point High School, selected the grizzly as the school’s mascot.

mascot submitted was a grizzly.” North Point High School is the second new high school built in the WSD since 2013, when Liberty High School opened in Lake Saint Louis. The district’s other high schools include Timberland and Holt, which are both located in Wentzville. The Wentzville School District has been the fastest growing school district in the state for two decades and currently has approximately 17,300 students in grades K-12. North Point High School is scheduled to open in 2021 to freshmen, sophomores and juniors. It will be a 310,000 square-foot comprehensive high school when completed and the school colors will be navy blue and orange. For more information, including photos and videos of North Point High School, visit the WSD website.

Cuivre River Electric joins other Missouri electric co-ops sending hurricane help to Louisiana Eight Cuivre River Electric Cooperative linemen left earlier this month to join linemen from across Missouri’s electric cooperatives to assist a Louisiana electric cooperative as it works to recover from Hurricane Laura, which devastated a large swath of southwestern Louisiana late last month. Beauregard Electric Cooperative based in DeRidder, Louisiana, reached out to the electric cooperatives in Missouri with a call for help after gauging the extent of the damage. “This cooperative has been hit very hard,” says Rob Land, who coordinates the relief effort for the Association of Missouri Electric Cooperatives (AMEC). “Immediately after the storm the cooperative was 100 percent down with a tremendous amount of devastation. 75 percent of the system remains down now.” The impacted cooperative has taken additional steps to help the linemen stay safe during the COVID-19 crisis. The men are expected to stay in a tent city designed to protect them from the virus. Special air filters capable of removing 99.4 percent of the virus have been installed on the HVAC equipment and beds have been spread out farther than would normally be done. They are expected to stay for at least 10 days. If the repairs take longer, a rotation will be set up to send fresh crews into the effort. CREC General Manager and CEO Doug Tracy met with the co-op’s linemen before they started their journey south. “Most of our linemen have volunteered to help other cooperatives after hurricanes in the past and this time is no exception. They know what they’re getting into but feel strongly that the people impacted need their power restored as soon as possible,” Tracy said. “Our linemen take a lot of pride in what they do and it’s in times like these that they can step up and make a real difference. Those going are committed to safely helping get power back on for this co-op and its 8 | CROSSROADS | OCTOBER 2020

Submitted photo CREC linemen just prior to leaving for Louisiana to help Beauregard Electric Cooperative with restoring power.

members. I’m proud of our linemen and their commitment to help others,” he said. Missouri’s electric cooperatives are no stranger to hurricane help. The assistance began in 2004 when linemen from Missouri traveled to Mississippi and Alabama in the wake of Hurricane Ivan. They have since assisted electric co-ops in Louisiana, Florida and South Carolina in addition to Alabama and Mississippi. Electric cooperatives in the south returned the favor when Missouri was devastated by ice storms in 2007 and 2009. “Cooperation among cooperatives is one of the principles that guide electric cooperatives,” says Caleb Jones, CEO of the Association. “It’s hard to watch the destruction these storms cause without thinking that could be us. Our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone in the hurricane’s path. We are happy to be able to offer help to our friends in Louisiana.”

Asafe and spooky Halloween

By Brett Auten

All ages are welcome to participate in spooktacular weekend events hosted by St. Charles County Parks during the month of October

ave a safely spooked experience this month as the St. Charles County Parks hosts a handful of G-rated scary events this Halloween season. All ages are welcome to participate in spooktacular weekend events during the month of October. For the public’s safety, social distancing will be required in the parks and at the events. The Jack-O-Glow Walk returns for another round of pumpkin carving, followed by a pumpkin-lit stroll along trails in the park. This runs from 6 – 9 p.m., Friday, Oct. 16, at St. Charles County Heritage Museum, located at 1630 Heritage Landing in St. Peters and is hosted by St. Charles County Parks, Great Rivers Greenway and Fresh Thyme Markets. This features 100 pumpkins carved by residents that will illuminate the outside of the museum and one mile of the adjoining paved Centennial Trail. Pumpkin carving is from 6 – 7 p.m. outside the mu-

seum. The cost to carve a pumpkin is $2 each and preregistration is required by visiting the parks department online or calling the parks department at 636-949-7535. Carvers must bring their own tools and have their pumpkins ready to display by 7 p.m. Carved pumpkins will go home with contestants after the event ends. The Jack-OGlow Walk is from 7:30 – 9 p.m. Prizes will be awarded for the top three best carvings and the best family or group costume. The night also includes festive music, a scavenger hunt with prizes and a variety of outdoor yard games to play. Twisted Tacos, Taste of Mayberry Kettle Corn, candy and soda will be available for purchase throughout the night. Admission to walk the illuminated trail is free and registration is not required. Call the museum at 636-2556000 for more information. Tales and stories from the 1800s are brought to life at Spirits of the Past at The Historic Daniel Boone Home. The CONTINUED PAGE 10

OCTOBER 2020 | CROSSROADS | 9

stories will be Saturday, Oct. 17 from 6 – 10:30 p.m. and the Daniel Boone Home is located at 1861 Highway F in Defiance. Visitors will walk through lantern-lit paths throughout the park. There will be visits with conjure woman Aunt Hattie and hear the eerie “Legend of Sleepy Hollow” by renowned storyteller Anne Williams. “Guests are in for a hair-raising surprise when they meet Aunt Hattie at Spirits of the Past,” Nancy Gomer, Marketing Coordinator and Public Information Officer for the St. Charles County Parks, said. “With crystal ball in her hand, this village conjure woman will be practicing magic while telling spellbinding stories on the front porch of the general store in the village grounds. The spine-chilling ‘Sleepy Hollow’ performance takes place under the 52-foot covered bridge in the park and I guarantee it will captivate audiences of all ages.” To keep guests safe during the pandemic, this year’s event will consist of small groups participating in 1.5 hour guided experiences. Guests will tour the inside of the Boone Home and enjoy different vignettes throughout the village grounds and inside some of the buildings. Scheduled tour times are available to reserve between 6 and 9 p.m. and are limited to groups of 12. Reservations are required and will not be available at the door. Admission is $8 per person if pre-registered before Oct. 3; $10 after that date. For more information or to make a reservation, visit online or call the park at 636-

10 | CROSSROADS | OCTOBER 2020

798-2005. The Historic Daniel Boone Home is on the St. Charles County list of the National Register of Historic Places. The 18-hole disc golf course at The Park at New Melle Lakes will be glowing at the annual Halloween Disc Golf Glow Tournament from 6:30 – 11 p.m., on Friday, Oct. 23. Participants of all skill levels can compete for cash prizes at this nighttime contest where baskets are lined with glow sticks to help mark the course. The competition offers a mix of short and long holes that twist in and out of the woods. The Park at New Melle Lakes is located at 400 Foristell Road at New Melle. Cost is $10 per person; registration is from 5 – 6:15 p.m. on the day of the event only. The tournament is limited to 72 players, and a limited number of LED lights will be available for purchase prior to the tournament. For more information, call the Parks Department at 636-949-7535. “Our Halloween Happenings have something appealing for everyone,” Gomer said. “From the thrills of carving pumpkins and a glowing game of disc golf at night, to the chills of spooky candle-lit strolls through our parks, the St. Charles County Parks Department welcomes guests of all ages to get outdoors and enjoy unique community events this Halloween season.”

Submitted photos The St. Charles County Parks Department is offering an array of chills and thrills this month to celebrate a safe and socially-distanced Halloween season.

OCTOBER 2020 | CROSSROADS | 11

Always An Adventure

Helicopter

DROP

BY AVALANCHE

“ARE YOU AWARE OF THE FIRE ON THE MOUNTAIN?” my neighbor asked when I answered a late evening phone call. A sense of dread accompanied my negative reply. We had just received a little under an inch of rain in the last two days, seemingly breaking the record heat and drought’s stranglehold on our region. How could there be a fire on the mountain? The mountain in question is just a couple miles away from our neighborhood. We had been out walking the dogs at dusk, and we saw a few lightning bolts in the area. Staci saw one that one had seemingly touched down close by just below treeline. Apparently, when it touched down a few trees caught fire and continued to burn. My neighbor told me that the sheriff and Forest Service were aware of the fire. Further information was unavailable. The small fire was visible from our back patio; the flickering glow was about a thousand feet below treeline, in a steep, rocky portion of the mountain. Prevailing winds would push the flames away from us, should the small fire become a larger problem. The view through binoculars showed the flames dancing in a stand of trees, sometimes settling down, sometimes reaching over the treetops. We went to bed late and dozed fitfully, waking frequently to look up at the mountain and confirm that the fire had not exploded into a major event. We felt slightly reassured that our trucks and a trailer were still packed with clothes, food, tools and other possessions that would 12 | CROSSROADS | OCTOBER 2020

be nice to keep. I had recently commented that it would probably be safe to put some things back in the houses after the recent rains. Staci had disagreed, and pointed out that major fires were still raging in the area; the fires weren’t done with us yet this season. The flames dancing less than two miles away settled the argument quite effectively. More stuff got put into bags, ready to grab at a moment’s notice. The Canyon fire was still raging twenty miles away, and had nearly 800 firefighters and all manner of equipment dedicated to fighting that blaze. Fortunately for us, such large incidents have quick-reaction teams as part of the incident, since conditions are always ripe

for other fires to break out in nearby areas. We were up early the next morning, and saw that the fire was still smoldering, though the flames seemed to have died down. As the day warmed, the winds picked up and the flames became larger. Smoke was increasing as well. By mid-morning, a small helicopter began flying in the area in a grid-shaped pattern over the fire. A small plane also circled the area from a higher elevation. Both aircraft departed the area, and a short time later a larger helicopter circled the area and left, though we could still hear the rotors thumping over the river not far away. It returned, with a large water-filled red bucket suspended by a long cable beneath the aircraft. The pilot flew in a figure-eight pattern over the fire, then slowly pulled up directly over the flames and released the bucket full of water, causing a large cloud of smoke and steam to rise above the fire. The pilot repeated this ritual another halfdozen times that morning, until no more smoke or flames were visible. Our neighborhood breathed a collective sigh of relief and we went about our business, grateful for the Type 1 incident team’s prompt and effective response. By nightfall, a small glow could be seen with binoculars where the fire continued to smolder. The next morning, as I was getting ready to call dispatch to report my observations of the still-burning fire, the small helicopter from the previous day returned and conducted the grid-shaped flight pattern, followed by the larger helicopter conducting another seven water drops. That second effort finally put an end to the now two-day fire, which burned in a mostly-damp landscape. ********* During the last 48 hours, the temperature dropped from a high of 90 degrees to a low of 33 degrees. Dirty, smoke-tainted rain fell for a few hours, followed by a dump of several inches of heavy, wet snow that broke branches on leaf-covered trees. The local fires are now much smaller and in their final days. We’re unpacking the trucks and sleeping a lot better now, relieved that this year’s fire season seems to have subsided.

Moore On Life

King of

terror

2020 IS TURNING OUT TO BE A BAD SCRIPT FROM A STEPHEN KING NOVEL…a reeeee-ally bad script! So bad

that if Pennywise, his demonic clown, had read it he would laugh hysterically and not just because he’s a demonic clown, but because it would be so ridiculously funny.

Clown: “Come on man, you really expect people to believe this? Murder hornets AND a toilet paper apocalypse. You’re losing it Stevie!” Let’s uncrumple the discarded draft and take a peek, shall we? Once upon a time… (Really Stephen? That’s so overused.) … Earth was sucked into a wormhole which created so much friction that it caused an enormous fire Down Under. The only things to escape were flying swarms of locust. Soon they arrived in America. Evil Mr. Peanut from his lofty lair saw the citizens of the country in chaos. They were running hither thither (not a scary word Stephen) and terrified of the giant grasshoppers landing in their hair. Peanut noticed how this scared the citizens so much that they had to visit the restroom repeatedly. “Aha, now’s my chance to profit from the pandemonium!” (cue maniacal laughter). The villain then sent his minions off to snatch up all the toilet paper. This caused immense shortages, much panic and hygiene issues on a colossal scale. With no tissue on hand, the planet tailspinned into dystopia.

(typical Stephen). The evil peanut overlord then impeached the President and continued his merciless reign of terror. He plucked his enemies off from the street and seated them in large vacant movie theaters forcing them to watch nonstop reels of Tiger King (no relation to Stephen). No one could survive this inhumane torture so people started wearing face masks to hide their identity. When Peanut cancelled the Olympics and took away all sports, the people bravely stood for it. But when bacon threatened to disappear, that was the tipping point. The citizens rose up and rioted in the streets which in turn caused worldwide earthquakes and the stock market to plunge. Prince Harry and Meghan Markel heard of the unrest and immediately abdicated the throne and flew in onboard a massive murder hornet bringing reserves of meat which they purchased with Euro banknotes because there was a coin shortage. They promptly sprayed Mr. Peanut with their hand sanitizer squirt guns. He died. They shelled him and made a creamy butter out of him, which they spread on their cucumber sandwiches and swallowed down with tea. “Wasn’t it lovely of us to save the planet,” Megs said. “Achoo,” replied Harry, not sneezing into his elbow properly and releasing a world-wide pandemic which destroyed the universe. The end. Unbelievable Stephen! OCTOBER 2020 | CROSSROADS | 13

Automobile Alley

2021

LEXUS LC500 LUXURY SPORTS COUPE IS BOTH CAPTIVATING AND STUNNING

With an enticing footprint, alluring and contemporary body lines and an inviting and interesting interior, the 2021 Lexus LC500 luxury Sports Coupe is one of the most captivating and stunning new vehicles I’ve experienced in recent memory. It’s designed with a harmonious, unique blend of emotional and well-thought-out engineering. It offers up commanding and rapid acceleration with the 471-horsepower, 5.0-liter V-8 engine featuring 0-60 MPH in just slightly over four seconds. In part, the 25-MPG highway figures are achieved with an advanced 10-speed automatic transmission. It is set up on a rear-wheel-drive refined chassis. The LC coupe receives a number of key upgrades for 2021, further cementing the bond between the driver and the machine itself. Exterior styling of the LC500 is futuristic looking. It’s a serious head turner from pedestrians and other motorists alike. I suspect that the aviation industry was an inspiration to the designers. This Lexus represents the most passionate expression of the Lexus brand itself. This eyecatching coupe displays a unique mesh grille that spreads across the front of the car. It has a large glass panel and blacked-out rear pillars that create a floating roof appearance. Chrome plated moldings along the edges helps set this coupe’s silhouette, making it appear to be in motion. An optional carbon fiber reinforced roof is offered for an even more exotic look. One of the most stunning aspects of the LC 500 is its unique light signature at night. 14 | CROSSROADS | OCTOBER 2020

The tail lamps were inspired by the glow of a jets “three dimensional” red afterburners. While the ultra-compact, triple projector LED headlamps are not only striking, they are half the size of conventional headlamps on other vehicles in its class. The LC emphasizes a balance between function and comfort, sporting intent and luxury. Also featured is an impressive 10.3 inch high resolution split-screen multimedia display that provides immediate, simultaneous access to audio or climate controls and various systems. The low instrument panel position, hood line and narrow body side pillars give the driver a commanding view of the road. To build a sense of continuity, the flowing lines of the door panels serve as an extension of the exterior that flows from the hood and through the windshield. This four-passenger sports car comes with exclusively engineered front seats that certainly feel as good as they look. Components in the shoulder area help secure the driver firmly while in cornering maneuvers. Back seat leg room is a bit short as is the trunk cargo capacity. However, the quality finish of the upholstery, trim materials and detailing reflect world-class craftsmanship and attention to detail. It can certainly be seen as well as felt in the hand stitching on numerous components. The Lexus Safety System+ comes standard on every model. It features Lane Departure Alert with Lane Keep Assist, Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection as standard and includes features such as Frontal Collision Warning, and Automatic Emergen-

cy Braking. All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control is also included, as is Intelligent High Beam that will default to high-beam mode when the road ahead is clear but will temporarily switch to low beams when headlamps or taillamps are detected. Breaking and steering is positive as well as its remarkable/ balanced road dynamics. Lexus also offers this exciting automobile in a hybrid version as well as in a convertible. The base pricing starts at $92,950. This vehicle is in the class of the Chevy Corvette, BMW 8-Series and the Porsche 911. Lexus’ unlimited passion for valiant automotive design, confident imaginative technology, and exhilarating performance enables this luxury lifestyle brand to create amazing benchmark breakthroughs. It was back in 1989 when Toyota’s Lexus premium division began its amazing journey with two luxury sedans and a commitment to pursue perfection. Since then, Lexus has developed its lineup to meet the needs of global luxury car shoppers in more than 90 countries.

Entertainment

‘Brian’s Song’

and other classic TV sports films BY STEVE BRYAN On Sept. 23, Gayle Sayers, the former Chicago Bears running back and Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee, passed away at age 77. Sayers was an accomplished football player and was portrayed by Billy Dee Williams in the 1971 ABC TV Movie of the Week “Brian’s Song.” The film focused on the relationship between Sayers and Brian Piccolo (James Caan) that began while they were both rookie members of the Bears in the 1960’s. Sports movies have been around for over a century, with one of the earliest examples being Charlie Chaplin’s 1915 comedy “The Champion.” With characters based on real people, “Brian’s Song” showed the other side of this genre. Gayle Sayers and Brian Piccolo became roommates, teammates and friends on-and-off the field as they supported each other in good times and bad. Some critics even call it one of the best of the made-for-TV movies. In 1975, actress Susan Clark played Mildred Ella “Babe” Didrikson Zaharias in the

telemovie “Babe.” An outstanding athlete, Zaharias was skilled at many sports including basketball and baseball. During the 1932 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, for instance, she won two gold medals and one silver medal for track and field. Zaharias was best known for golf, however, and, in 1950, she completed a “Grand Slam” by winning the U.S. Open, the Titleholder’s Championship and the Women’s Western Open. “Babe” focused on her career and numerous athletic accomplishments. Then known as Bruce Jenner, Caitlyn Marie Jenner starred in the 1981 TV movie “Grambling’s White Tiger.” Jenner played Jim Gregory, the first white quarterback at Grambling College (now Grambling State University). Set during the 1960’s, the story focused on racial tensions and acceptance during a turbulent time in American history. The cast also featured LeVar Burton (“Star Trek: The Next Generation”), Dennis Haysbert (“Major League”) and Harry Belafonte as Coach Eddie Robinson.

In 1988, a real-life high school teacher and football coach became the subject of the TV movie “Quiet Victory: The Charlie Wedemeyer Story.” Portrayed by actor Michael Nouri, the story examined Wedemeyer’s career and his refusal to give up coaching even after a diagnosis of Lou Gehrig’s disease. Pam Dawber also starred as Lucy Wedemeyer, the coach’s steadfast wife who helped him communicate with the players on the field. Big screen sports comedies such as “Bull Durham,” “Dodgeball” and “The Ringer” are quite plentiful but I always loved those made-for-TV movies about real life sports figures. “Brian’s Song” is especially poignant now following the recent death of Gayle Sayers. “Babe,” “Quiet Victory” and “Grambling’s White Tiger” also provide examples of courage in the face of challenging circumstances. If you come across any of these films on YouTube or other streaming services, they are worth a look.

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For the Love of Food

Scary Good Introducing kids to unfamiliar flavors doesn’t have to be a frightful experience. Getting creative and taking cues from some beloved characters may be all it takes for families to explore produce in a new way and discover how delicious, satisfying and enjoyable fresh fruits and vegetables can be. A passion for produce may begin with America’s favorites, like bananas, apples, citrus, celery, carrots and broccoli, but that’s just the beginning. Whether it’s their angry names and tough exteriors, or simply a fear of the unknown about taste and preparation, dozens more diverse and exotic fruits and vegetables like dragon fruit, horned melon and Brussels sprouts are often the sources of produce paranoia. An initiative from Dole, in collaboration with Disney and Pixar’s Monsters, Inc., is helping to take the scare out of specialty fruits and vegetables and widen America’s produce horizons. That’s because, like a good book or the characters in a beloved film, you can’t judge a fruit or vegetable by its appearance; nature’s true beauty often lies within. The campaign offers character-inspired recipes, serving suggestions, digital and social activations, family-friendly activi-

Take the fear out of trying unfamiliar produce

ties, fun trivia and influencer partnerships that celebrate the not-so-scary world of the planet’s more unusual fresh bounty. One easy way to introduce new flavors is by trying a variation of a familiar fruit or veggie. For example, there are more than 500 edible banana varieties in the world. You might sample a red banana or a Manzano, or even an ice cream banana, with a taste resembling vanilla custard. These fun and kid-friendly Green Slime Nacho Cups feature plantains, for example, a member of the banana family with

Slippery Slimy Smoothie Prep time:10 minutes | Servings: 2 (8 ounces each)

a different taste and texture than everyday yellow bananas – more firm and starchy like a potato. Increase your family’s produce intake even further with a Slippery Slimy Smoothie and Chicken Stuffed Roz Heads, which call for green grapes, celery, avocados, strawberries and blueberries. Find more recipes and other not-soscary fun at dole.com/Disney, and follow #Dole and #DoleRecipes.

Ingredients:

1/2 cup pineapple

1/2 cup spinach 1 banana, peeled and frozen

1/2 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk

1/2 cup green grapes, frozen

1/2 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt

1/3 cup cucumber, diced

5 ice cubes

Directions: In blender, blend spinach, banana, grapes, cucumber, pineapple, almond milk, Greek yogurt and ice cubes until smooth. Pour smoothie into two glasses and serve.

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For the Love of Food Ingredients: 1 cup cubed, cooked chicken breast 1/2 cup green grapes, halved

Chicken Stuffed Roz Heads Prep time: 15 minutes | Servings: 3

1/4 cup chopped celery 1/3 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper 1 1/2 avocados, halved, pitted and peeled 6 whole-wheat pretzel twists 18 whole-wheat pretzel sticks 1 strawberry, sliced 3 dried, sweetened blueberries Directions: In bowl, stir together chicken, grapes, celery, yogurt, salt and pepper. Scoop three equal portions onto serving plate. Shape each into oval. Top each with upside down avocado half. Decorate each avocado half to resemble Rozâ€™s face. Using sharp paring knife, trim

each pretzel twist to create horn-rimmed glasses lens by cutting off double loop section of each pretzel twist and discarding or enjoying as snack, keeping single loop portion, which will become one lens. Two lenses are needed per Roz Head. Place two pretzel lenses on each avocado

Green Slime Nacho Cups Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

to form glasses. Add pretzel stick to each side of avocado to form arms of glasses. Push four pretzel sticks into top of each avocado to form hair. Add strawberry slice, trimmed to look like lips for her mouth, and place blueberry on lower left side of face to form mole.

Ingredients: 1 green starting to turn yellow plantain, peeled and thinly sliced on bias 1 1/2 teaspoons canola oil 1/4 teaspoon salt, divided

1 avocado, halved, pitted and peeled 1 tablespoon lime juice 1 clove garlic, minced 1/2 cup thinly shredded purple cabbage

Directions: Preheat oven to 375 F. Toss plantain slices with canola oil and season with pinch of salt. On parchment paper-lined baking sheet, arrange slices in single layer with no overlapping. Bake 18-20 minutes, or until crispy and lightly golden. Cool completely and set aside. Using spoon, scoop flesh of avocado into small bowl and mash, reserving one half avocado shell. Stir mashed avocado with lime juice, garlic and remaining salt. Stir in slaw, reserving some for garnish. Scoop into reserved avocado shell and smooth top with back of spoon. Stick reserved cabbage shreds out of avocado mixture to look like hair. Serve slime nacho cups with plantain chips.

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Advertiser Profile

Wentzville EDC Business Spotlight Indoor Comfort Specialists

Heating and Air Conditioning

636-887-0971

Elite Heating and Cooling is located at 13 W. Allen St., Suite B in Historic Downtown Wentzville near West Allen Grill, but will be relocating to 108 Hamilton Industrial Ct. to better serve our customers. The business is owned by Tim Schellert and provides heating, cooling, and water heater service to residential. The business also provides gas inspections, restaurant kitchen inspections and Old Hickory Smokers service for its commercial customers. The business likes to give-back to the community through its participation in a variety of charitable causes such as Little Black Book and Habitat for Humanity. As a Lennox dealer they are also involved in the Lennox Feel the Love program which provides a new heating and air conditioning unit to a deserving family free-of-charge. Elite has been in business since 2003. We invite you to give us a call to respond to all of your heating and cooling needs. Phone is: (636) 887-0971

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October

Community Calendar

5 9

Child Health Day Leif Erikson Day

Columbus Day

Indigenous People’s Day

Navy Birthday

White Cane Safety Day

Boss’s Day

Sweetest Day

Halloween

OCTOBER 2020 | CROSSROADS | 19

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