HOMELESS FOR A NIGHT
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2 | CROSSROADS | NOVEMBER 2018
John Goodman
Joe Edwards
Jim Finn
Jane Gillooly
Karyn Kusama
Melanie Mayron
Jason Reitman
NOVEMBER 2018
contents
VOL 14 | NO 11
Departments
Published monthly with newsstand circulation to Wentzville and Lake Saint Louis plus newsstands in O’Fallon, Troy, Lake Sherwood and Augusta.
Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Mathew DeKinder Publisher Emeritus/ General Manager Robert Huneke Production Manager Rebecca Brockmann Contributors Avalanche, David Finkelstein, Cindy Moore, Russ Patton Staff Writer Brett Auten
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Community News
features
4
Around Town Local news and events
8
Always an Adventure Tiny pests make a big impression
9
Moore on Life Think thankful!
13
Simon Says Out of the ashes and into a home
14
Automobile Alley 2019 Fiat/Chrysler Pacifica effectively blurs the line between minivan and crossover
16
Food Nutritious meals for busy school nights
18
Entertainment ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ is a Queen fan’s delight
19
Community Calendar: November
7 10
Homeless for a night Sts. Joachim and Ann Care Service hosts Sleep Out Saturday, a fundraiser that gives participants the experience of being homeless for a night in St. Charles County
15
Nonprofit Profile Cinema St. Louis Presents the 27th Annual Whitaker St. Louis International Film Festival
2139 Bryan Valley Commercial Dr. O’Fallon, MO 63366 Ph: 636.379.1775 Fx: 636.379.1632
www.mycnews.com
Copyright 2018 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.
Advertiser Profile I married that redhead
On the Cover: Submitted photo
NOVEMBER 2018 | CROSSROADS | 3
Around Town
VETERANS TRIBUTE PARK DEBUTS
New 120-acre park in Weldon Spring opens to the public after months of anticipation By Brett Auten
Submitted photos
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sun-drenched day set the scene for the launch of Veterans Tribute Park. The St. Charles County Parks and Recreation Department debuted its newest park over the past weekend with a ribbon cutting and opening. The 120-acre park is located at 1031 Kisker Road in Weldon Spring. St. Charles County Executive Steve Ehlmann said Veterans Tribute Park is unique in many ways and will be a destination for families in St. Charles County and throughout the region. “It is the only county park of its kind surrounded by residential development in a suburban setting, and there are numerous amenities to enjoy – there is something for everyone,” Ehlmann said. Among the fresh amenities at Veterans Tribute Park is a destination playground for children of all abilities that encompasses social/emotional, physical, sensory, cognitive and communication development. The playground is divided into zones: interactive and motion-activated water play; music play; adventure play with climbing features; inclusive swings; and a hillside slide. There is a 1.6-mile paved walking and biking trail system (with smaller trails inside the property). There are two lakes stocked for catch-and-release fishing, an off-leash dog park divided into small and large dog areas, three non-reserve-able, open-play fields encompassing six acres and three reserve-able shelters that accommodate at least 100 guests each. “We have heard a lot of good feedback on social media,” Mary Enger, Director of Communications with St. Charles County Gov4 | CROSSROADS | NOVEMBER 2018
ernment, said. “There have been calls for months asking when (Veterans Tribute Park) it will be open.” A veterans’ memorial plaza in development is scheduled to open in 2019. The silo on the property, built in 1916, has been preserved and integrated into the design. A boardwalk from the silo spans out into the park, allowing visitors to have a view of the landscape and of the playground. According to Ehlmann, 90 of the 120 acres of the park have been developed, with the remaining 30 reserved for future development. Construction costs were approximately $7 million, which
Around Town nine parks. Two other parks were added to the St. Charles County Parks system this year. In August, Riverside Landing opened, giving boaters free access to the Mississippi River. Located between Kampville Drive and Huster Road in St. Charles, the 7.73-acre park will be further developed into a unique recreational came from the county’s Parks Fund. Money from the fund is through a local use tax approved by voters in 1997, and is dedicated to park acquisition, development and operations. In the past 12 years, the county has added
attraction. In September, The Park at New Melle Lakes had a soft opening for the public. Located at 400 Foristell Road, The Park at New Melle Lakes features an 18-hole championship disc golf course, five lakes
St. Charles County 911 upgrade provides faster, more accurate location information Working closely with its industry partners, St. Charles County Emergency Communications has successfully upgraded the countywide 911 system with an integration of RapidSOS. All dispatch agencies in St. Charles County now can locate 911 callers who are using Apple’s iOS 12 on their iPhones faster and with more accuracy. “The safety of our residents and visitors is a priority for St. Charles County Government,” says County Executive Steve Ehlmann. “Our new Emergency Operations Center in O’Fallon, which houses the county’s 911 dispatch, is equipped with the latest technology to maintain and support the county’s Next Generation 911 phone system and digital P25 radio system. RapidSOS enables us to provide even better services in an emergency.” Apple, in cooperation with RapidSOS, uses Hybridized Emergency Location (HELO) information, which pinpoints the location of the caller and allows for faster dispatch of police, fire and EMS resources as is appropriate for a reported emergency. “Location accuracy on mobile devices sometimes has been difficult,” says Jeff Smith, St. Charles County’s Director of Emergency
for catch-and-release fishing, a 25-acre lake for canoeing and kayaking, hiking and biking on paved trails and picnic areas. Future plans for New Melle Lakes include a dog park, restroom facilities, playground, shelters and camping. The home on the property is being upgraded and will be used as a rental facility. For more information, visit sccmo.org or call the St. Charles County Parks Department at 636-949-7535.
www.dpc4u.org
Communications, “but this new technology is going to make a significant difference in the time it takes us to pinpoint callers.” Unlike landline users, mobile callers could be anywhere. Without RapidSOS, the dispatchers first receive the address of a cell tower the caller’s phone is affiliated with. Typically, in approximately 30 seconds the system will provide updated location information which is generally within 50 feet of the caller’s location. With RapidSOS technology, the caller’s actual location is provided almost instantly and is accurate within approximately three feet. “We tested the new system with a call from an iPhone that has iOS 12,” Smith says. “We were able to immediately see exactly where the person was located.” Those with iPhones who have downloaded iOS 12, and have location services enabled, don’t need to do anything further; Apple has made RapidSOS the default, and there is no additional cost. Google has announced that it, too, will be partnering with RapidSOS by the end of the year, which is great news for Android users.
NOVEMBER 2018 | CROSSROADS | 5
Around Town
Live Now: 2018-19 Quest For Education Scholarship Program Vantage Credit Union has begun the twenty-third season of its annual Quest For Education (QFE) Scholarship program. Vantage awards scholarships to area graduating high school seniors to help cover college expenses. For the 2018-19 school year, Vantage will award ten $1,000 QFE scholarships to qualifying members pursuing a higher education that they can use toward any college or university tuition or supplies. Over the past 34 years, Vantage has awarded over $670,000 in scholarships to local high school seniors. Financial need, class rank, SAT/ACT score and grade point average aren’t criterion for the scholarship. Instead, the demonstration of outstanding character, motivation, leadership, and community/ school involvement are key. Any 2019 graduating senior with an account in good standing is eligible to apply. “The credit union was founded for teachers, so we have a deep connection with the educational community,” said Eric Acree, President & CEO of Vantage Credit Union. “We’re committed to supporting our members’ educational goals, and our Quest For Education scholarship program is just one way we can help ease the financial burden for students as they transition to higher education.” Applications must be submitted online at vcu.com by Jan. 11, 2019, and letters of recommendation must be received by Jan. 18, 2019.
6 | CROSSROADS | NOVEMBER 2018
WSD schools raise over $126,000 for the American Heart Association
Photo courtesy Wentzville School District
Schools in the Wentzville School District (WSD) raised over $126,000 last year for the American Heart Association (AHA), the third-most in the state, thanks to students in 17 of its schools who held fundraisers over the course of the school year, including Jump Rope for Heart, Hoops for Heart and Dodgeball for Heart. According to the AHA, this means the WSD helped save thousands of lives right in our own area. Funds raised for the AHA go toward research, education and medication to fight heart disease in Missouri. The participating schools also received over $9,350 in vouchers that they can use to purchase physical education equipment through the program. By participating in the various fundraisers, students learned how to take care of their own hearts, as well as how fulfilling it can be to show your heart in helping others in need. During the previous school year, WSD schools had raised over $110,000; so this year’s total reflects a 15 percent increase in their fundraising efforts. Duello Elementary alone raised over $18,500 in their Jump Rope for Heart campaign, their best year ever. That ranked Duello in the top ten of all Jump Rope for Heart campaigns in Missouri, and the highest in the WSD. Their generosity earned nearly $3,000 worth of PE equipment. Discovery Ridge Elementary, last year’s highest fund raiser, followed close behind with over $18,000 in donations. Wabash and Green Tree Elementary also raised more than $10,000, with Green Tree having its best year ($10,518) and Wabash demonstrating how much heart it has in its first year ($13,878). Schools in the WSD have been raising funds for the AHA for more than twenty years. Over the last five years, WSD schools have collectively raised over $420,000 for the AHA. Physical education teachers and administrators from the participating schools were all recognized before the Board of Education at the Sept. 20 board meeting. According to Barb Reyering, Youth Marketing Director for the AHA – Midwest Affiliate, “Our number one goal is to educate students about living a heart-healthy life. Studies have shown that if elementary students start to make healthy food choices, exercise and refrain from smoking, they can potentially extend their lives by as many as five years. This past year, we were able to get this message out to more students than ever before. The physical education teachers and nurses in the WSD do a tremendous job of promoting heart-healthy living and teaching their kids about helping others with special hearts. We are so grateful for all the wonderful work they do for this lifesaving mission.”
Advertiser Profile
I married that redhead
W
hile I was getting educated at Washington University I met a young redhead who said her family had bought a Byerly trailer. It turned out to be an original that Walter Byerly built in 1954. I had a 1951 Studebaker. I married that redhead and soon afterward Adrienne and I set out for a three-week adventure through the western states. Our decision to begin heading south on I-44 would be regretted later. The trip was unforgettable, although sometimes challenging. In the desert we had to operate the heater to keep the car from overheating. Unfortunately for Adrienne, the Studebaker heater consists of a “radiator” below the front seats. She retreated to be back seat. The trailer brakes were a lifesaver, but our venture into downtown San Francisco was harrowing without the trailer. I was constantly readjusting the brakes. Highlights included watching hot air balloons practicing for the upcoming event in Albuquerque, New Mexico, driving the Pacific coast highway from San Clemente to San Francisco, enjoying beautiful Oak Creek Canyon, and visiting friends and relatives along the way. We barely made it over the mountains before the October snows closed the passes. The ride home was harrowing. A blizzard followed us through most of Kansas, but we ploughed on because we didn’t want to stop in the middle of it. It all started in a Byerly RV. Why not see what you can get started in an RV from Byerly RV in Eureka? You can see the original Byerly at our location. Our retro-RV was a bit primitive. New RVs let you enjoy the comforts of home or any hotel lodging. Byerly in Eureka is celebrating 68 years as one of the Midwest’s oldest and largest RV Dealers. Visit us at www.byerlyrv.com.
e th th Wor ive Dr
Byerly RV 295 East Fifth St. | Eureka, MO 63025 800-878-3325 | 636-938-2000 www.byerlyrv.com
WWW.LAWNAUTHORITY.COM
Wentzville Business Spotlight
Lee’s Barber Shop located at 604 W. Pearce Blvd. is in the retail center adjacent to Subway. Jaeha Lee opened the business in December 2016 after taking it over from a friend at this same location. Jaeha provides haircuts and beard trims. He offers quality services at a competitive price. From his location he is easily accessible from anywhere in the Wentzville Community. Come by to see me. I’d love to show you how good I can make you look!
NOVEMBER 2018 | CROSSROADS | 7
Always An Adventure
TINY PESTS MAKE A
BIG IMPRESSION EARLY FALL IN THE OZARKS IS A PLEASANT TIME, as the temperature and humidity have moderated from their sweltering summer highs and the throngs of summer tourists have subsided to modestly sized groups out on weekends. The roads are clear of traffic jams and the lakes can be enjoyed without dodging many other boats or jet-skis. My visit this year occurred at the time when the leaves were just beginning to turn, a bit earlier than usual – a time when a hidden menace lurks in the outdoors. As I was about to head for the Ozarks, my friend Scott in the St. Charles County area, warned that locally the chiggers were bad this year, and would probably be worse down south in the Ozarks. He was right. Trombiculidae alfreddugesi, commonly known as chiggers, (and frequently accompanied by an unpublishable descriptor,) were quite prolific this year down in the backwoods. Despite the locals’ gracious and generous cutting of weeds around the property prior to my arrival, the microscopic larvae were still out in full force, and must have been quite happy with my arrival, as I became a feast for a multitude of the little parasites. Despite myths to the contrary, the little creatures don’t burrow into the skin or suck blood, but rather attach themselves to the skin, and then inject an itch-causing, flesh-dissolving enzyme into the skin. The liquefied flesh is then consumed, nourishing 8 | CROSSROADS | NOVEMBER 2018
the miniature larvae, and the bloated feeders then detach themselves, and go on to grow up to be adult chiggers. The adult versions interestingly, no longer feed on flesh, but unfortunately, reproduce prolifically. The larvae usually detach themselves from the skin before the intensely itching welt appears, allowing them to retreat to safety after already spreading the yet-to-be-discovered hate and discontent. Thus, the suffering recipient of the itching welts is deprived of the satisfaction of smashing their tormentors flat, as with other stinging insects. Measuring only seven to eight thousandths of an inch, the pests are hard to see, and difficult to repel. Some folks seem to have a natural immunity to the mites, and are able to work outside all day in grass and brush with nary a bite. I envy those people, as the bugs have a natural affinity to me. Perhaps I smell like a Yankee, and some deep-seated resentment toward northerners is present in the Ozark-based itch-producing vermin. Though to be fair, the human inhabitants of the area have never displayed any such hostility, demonstrating only southern hospitality, despite my obvious lack of local pedigree. And, I’ve been mauled by chiggers before in Kansas - hardly a southern state after sleeping in the grass for a few hours at a rest stop. I guess I’m just lucky. Remedies for the intense itching vary as to method and effectiveness. The most effective remedy is the most difficult to
apply – simply avoid scratching the welts. They’ll begin to ooze and bleed on their own, and further irritation just makes things worse. Such a method of “not doing” is good mindfulness practice, but enough bites can drive a stoic Zen master into an insane frenzy of scratching. After being in the Ozarks for a while, and especially after swimming in the nearby lake, I seem to be less appetizing to the flesheaters. I’ve noticed the same phenomenon in the Rockies; that people who visit for a short time seem to be more enticing for insect pests. After a few weeks, the formerly harried visitors seem less bothered by the local parasites. Longer stays might be warranted. Now back at home in the Rockies, all the previously oozing welts have subsided into little red dots, with just enough itching to remind me of the nuisance. My search for the magic remedy and repellant will continue as time goes on. And my visits to the Ozarks might be pushed a little later – and longer – into the fall, when the leaves are at their peak, and the chiggers have gone to ground. 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
Think thankful! IT’S COMING UP SOON. THE BE-THANKFUL DAY!
I’m especially thankful I can haul out my fine china for one day a year and get my money’s worth out of it. Why did I ever invest so much china in that snooty tableware when I could have used the cash more sensibly, like for dinner reservations?! Thanksgiving is an interesting holiday. It’s the one time of year you can kick your diet to the curb and stuff yourself like a trash can after Christmas day. Nobody has to answer to anyone for eating half a pie or making Aunt Fiona pour the gravy into your drinking glass then asking for a straw. It’s all acceptable. For kicks and giggles, let’s look at a few facts about this special time of year. Fun fact: Sara Hale is considered the mother of Thanksgiving. She wrote a letter urging President Lincoln to make it a national holiday. She also wrote, “Mary Had a Little Lamb”. Obscure fact: When it was suggested that lamb chops be served as the main holiday entrée, Sara vehemently vetoed it and quickly tossed in the idea of turkey instead. Her voice was heard. And just in time, because a jaunty little ditty entitled, “Tommy Befriended a Witty Turkey” was about to be released. Good thing it was given the kibosh or we’d all be eating Spam with our green bean casserole and cranberries. Speaking of cranberries: that delightful little bog berry has
come to be synonymous with the holiday. Fun fact: Did you know that back in the day Native Americans used them to treat wounds and dye arrows? Obscure fact: When I was growing up and in the days before Thanksgiving arrived, we’d use the can of cranberries as a handy doorstop. Then afterwards, when the gelatinous gloop was dumped onto a plate and left untouched at the dining table; it was shoved into the back recesses of the refrigerator only to be discovered the following spring, hardened and dehydrated. It was then again used as a handy doorstop. Final fun fact: The turkey was Ben Franklin’s idea for the national bird. Can you imagine dishonoring the national bird by stripping it buck naked then stuffing its inners with wet bread and celery and tossing it into an oven till all its juices run out? Shameful! Obscure fact: That procedure is typically saved for crooked politicians! 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.
NOVEMBER 2018 | CROSSROADS | 9
HOMELESS FOR A NIGHT
Sts. Joachim and Ann Care Service hosts Sleep Out Saturday, a fundraiser that gives participants the experience of being homeless for a night in St. Charles County By Brett Auten
10 | CROSSROADS | NOVEMBER 2018
T
his will not be sitting around the campfire, roasting marshmallows and strumming Lynard Skynard songs into the moonlight. Sts. Joachim and Ann Care Service will host a unique sleepover with an opportunity to get a first-hand experience of the realities and the struggles of homelessness in St. Charles County. Sleep Out Saturday was originally scheduled to be held from 4:30 p.m. on Nov. 10 to 7:30 a.m. on Nov. 11 on the campus at Sts. Joachim and Ann Care Service located at 4116 McClay Road in St. Charles. The new event has been rescheduled for April 27, 2019. The experience is designed to bring awareness of homelessness in our area during National Homelessness and Hunger Awareness Week, while generating unrestricted funds to help the homeless. The cost to participate is $30 a person and participants must be at least 13-yearsold. There is a cap of 150 participants. Pam Struckhoff, Director of Program Services at Sts. Joachim and Ann Care Service, said the ultimate goal is to present a small taste of what it would be like to live your life on the streets. “Everything you need to live you carry on your back,” Struckhoff said. “You’re not sure where your next meal will come from or where you
will sleep that night. Will you be safe? Will you wake up in the morning? Your body is tired and your mind cannot rest.” In St. Charles, Lincoln and Warren counties, 7.5 percent of the population is living in poverty. A total of 532 persons were found to be sheltered and unsheltered homeless in St. Charles, Lincoln and Warren counties during the Homeless Point in Time Count on Jan. 31. These families are struggling to provide the most basic survival needs for their families – like food and shelter. Sleep Out Saturday begins with a rally at 4:30 p.m. with guest speakers, including former homeless individuals, followed by a shelter building competition. After creating shelter, participants will have to find the soup kitchen for a meal and undergo simulations of typical obstacles the homeless face. “It’s a little intense and the first of its kind in our area,” Hannah Rae Lumley, development coordinator at Sts. Joachim and Ann Care Service, said. “Expect anything. We are going to make it as realistic as we can. We want you to see what they are seeing.” Driven by its mission to serve those in crisis and to prevent homelessness and hunger, the purpose of Sts. Joachim and Ann Care Service is to protect families, especially children, senior citizens and disabled individuals from the despair, hopelessness and social injustice caused by poverty. The inaugural Sleep Out Saturday hopes to bring about awareness – and help – for those homeless in our neighborhoods. “I want people to realize that people who are homeless were at one time children who had dreams about what they were going to be when they grew up. They were someone’s children,”Struckhoff said. “They were loved, and for whatever reason they ended up on the streets. Maybe they didn’t have the support system of family to catch them when they fell. Maybe they made a mistake or maybe they got sick, lost a spouse or lost their job. Whatever circumstance led them to where they are now, they are human beings with feelings. They are now survivors. They are strong, smart and resourceful. They are children of God, no matter where they lay their head at night, just like you and me.” The experience will not be exact. Come Sunday morning, the participants will be able to return to their warm homes with kitchen cabinets stocked and comfortable beds. “What our neighbors, who are homeless, go through can be stressful,” Lumley said. “Being uncomfortable, that’s their reality. This is something that exists here. We tend to think of St. Charles County as more affluent. Homelessness gets overlooked. The people here are struggling and need some help.” For more information, contact Lumley at 636-441-1302, ext. 263 or hlumley@jacares.org. For more on Sts. Joachim and Ann Care Service, visit www.jacares.org.
The effects of homelessness go far beyond not having a place to sleep. According to the American Psychological Association website, homelessness has particularly adverse effects on children and youth including hunger, poor physical and mental health and missed educational opportunities. Homeless persons also suffer from numerous health issues at a much higher rate than the general population due to increased exposure to the elements, violence, unsanitary conditions, disease, malnutrition, stress and addictive substances (www.nationalhomeless.org). Childtrends.org reports that children without stable homes are more than twice as likely as others to repeat a school grade, be expelled or suspended, or drop out of high school. According to the National Association for the Education of Homeless Children and Youth Children, the younger and longer a child experiences homelessness, the greater the cumulative toll of negative health outcomes, which can have lifelong effects on the child, the family and the community.
Submitted photos
NOVEMBER 2018 | CROSSROADS | 11
Simon Says
OUT OF THE ASHES AND INTO A HOME B
ack in February of this year, I brought you a story of a local police officer and his family who had just endured a house fire that destroyed everything, just days before Christmas. After a collaboration of businesses, volunteers, friends and the amazing community we live in, I am happy to report that the Stephenson Family is back home! I decided this time around that I would yet again let the Stephensons share their story, in their own words. A chance to thank the dozens of folks who helped make rebuilding their home after a devastating fire, a reality. Kristin’s story: We can honestly say that Haggai 2:9 rang complete truth for us. “The glory of this present house will be greater than the glory of the former house, says the Lord Almighty. And in this place I will grant peace, declares the Lord Almighty.” We endured a complete tragedy, but after the community surrounded us with love and support, we have been blessed with such a beautiful home, back in our wonderful
neighborhood, surrounded by friends who have definitely become family. Where do we begin? I don’t think we could ever express how grateful we are for everything Mr. John Houston Sr. and his son John Houston Jr. from Houston Homes has done for us. If it wasn’t for their giving hearts, dedication and hard work, we would not be sitting in our new amazing home. They set out to help us out from the
WE ENDURED A COMPLETE TRAGEDY
12 | CROSSROADS | NOVEMBER 2018
beginning. They are not just contractors to us, they have become life-long friends of our family. We have never built a house before so we had no clue how many different people/subcontractors went in to the entire process, but Houston Homes took care of everything along the way without taking a single dime for the contracting work. It seemed like yesterday when John Sr. came over to the kitchen table of our rental house to speak with us about the layout of our home. When he was talking to us was when the “dream home”
Simon Says phrase first got thrown around. Now sitting here in our dream home looking at the amazing and intricate detail that surrounds us, it’s crazy to believe how far we’ve come in our relationships, new and old. Many of days we would check on the progress of the construction and John Sr. would be in his bobcat making things happen. Every single one of the subcontractors treated us like we’ve known each other for years and we know that’s because of the relationships Houston Homes built with them. To all of the subcontractors who helped make our house a home, thank you for discounting or donating your man hours and materials. We truly appreciate it.
WE TRULY APPRECIATE IT. For about the last month of the rebuilding process, we were not able to go inside the house. They wanted it to be a surprise to us. That was a tough wait for all six of us, but it was completely worth the wait. On Sept. 14, we were able to walk inside our brand new home for the first time and tour it with John Sr. and John Jr. It was an indescribable feeling that we will never forget. We were able to throw a huge House “Cooling” Party to extend our thanks to everyone who has helped us from the beginning. Again, thank you to every single person, the kids’ schools, organization, or company that has helped us since that dreadful day of Dec. 21, 2017. Without each and every one of you, we would not be where we are today. We are already making new memories and can’t wait for the life ahead of us where we will keep making more and more memories every single day. God showed us His love through the compassion of others and we pray we can continue on with our own compassionate hearts as a better and stronger family because of all of you.
AGAIN, THANK YOU TO EVERY SINGLE PERSON...
Thank you to the Stephenson family for sharing your story, and to all who helped rebuild. I guess the only thing left to say is….welcome home, Stephenson Family!
BY LAURIE SIMON
Laurie Simon lives in St. Peters with her husband and toddler son. When not rehabbing her home she enjoys weekends at the lake and spending time with family, friends and her two fur babies.
NOVEMBER 2018 | CROSSROADS | 13
Automobile Alley
2019
FIAT/CHRYSLER PACIFICA EFFECTIVELY BLURS THE LINE BETWEEN MINIVAN AND CROSSOVER
I
’m honestly a bit confused if the Fiat/ Chrysler Pacifica is a minivan or crossover; but regardless, and as defined by government standards, it’s positioned as a multipurpose vehicle. Besides being manufactured in a regular gasoline powered version, their hybrid model is offered in their “Touring Plus” trim level, as well as in their middle grade “Touring L” and top end “Limited” arrangement for 2019. Both versions include an unprecedented level of functionality, versatility, technology and bold exterior styling. This is coupled with the underlying fact that they reengineered this vehicle from the ground up with a clean sheet paper approach. It’s manufactured on an allnew platform and delivers class-leading fuel mileage and a seamless/advanced innovative hybrid powertrain system. I think it’s fair to suggest that the most important reason consumers generally consider a hybrid powertrain is based on the notable fuel mileage that’s achieved. Of course, that’s when compared to a conventional gasoline engine. To explore this a little further, it’s the first electric vehicle in the multipurpose segment of which gets an equivalent to 84 miles per gallon average. That’s when combined with city/highway driving. That in itself is a firm reason to rethink the fuel savings possibilities and favor the Pacifica Hybrid. Doing some additional number crunching, this people mover gets some 566-miles of driving range, with both the gas and electric drive modes working in unison together. Driving in just the electric mode, expect a range of around 33 miles. In part, the extended distance is accomplished 14 | CROSSROADS | NOVEMBER 2018
by way of their eFlite single electrically variable automatic transmission. Pacifica Hybrid also includes two electric motors, both of which are capable of channeling engaging power to the vehicle’s frontwheel-drive chassis set-up. With more than 100 standard and available safety and security features, the bar is further raised when it comes to occupant security and collision mitigation. Pacifica certainly delivers an exceptional ride and favorable nimble handling. I know what you’re thinking - a multipurpose vehicle that handles “nimble?” It actually does, thanks to advanced suspension componentry. Noise reduction was in the sights of the development planners list of areas to address. As a result, you’ll quickly grasp the increased cabin quietness, plus a lack of burdensome road vibration’s and harshness issues. Its body structure is fairly light yet quite stiff, making driving more responsive, thus enhancing overall steering agility. The vehicle’s overall body design hinges on a timeless footprint with a modern silhouette contour. The standard front and rear LED lighting further helps makeup Pacifica as a semblance of a premium product. The interior is roomy and comfortable, the dash as well as controls are uncluttered and easy to operate. All trim levels of the Hybrid include their 3.6-liter V-6 engine-rated at 260-horsepower and their easy entry second row seating. The factory offers four unique equipment group packages. This includes their Advanced Safety Tec package, Cold Weather option package, S Trim Appearance option
and their U-Connect Theater feature with wireless streaming group. And don’t overlook their other convenience features offered that include their available Stow ‘n Vac integrated vacuum system, and segmentfirst hands-free sliding side entry doors and rear lift-gate assembly that open’s with the kick of a foot. Manufactured at their plant in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, the pricing structure with the ‘19, seven-passenger Pacifica Hybrid ranges from $39,995-$44.995. It generally is cross shopped with the Honda Odyssey in this segment.
BY DAVID FINKELSTEIN
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.
Nonprofit Profile
C
Presents the 27th Annual Whitaker St. Louis International Film Festival
Joe Edwards
John Goodman
Karyn Kusama
rds
Jim Finn
Jane Gillooly
ma
Melanie Mayron
Jason Reitman
inema St. Louis showcases the best in international, documentary and American independent cinema. Believing that we discover something about ourselves when we learn about others’ cultures and perspectives, Cinema St. Louis offers programs that provide glimpses of the human experience from around the world and thoughtfully address issues of race, ethnicity and sexual identity. The organization was founded in January 1992, when a consortium of nonprofits and universities was established to present the first St. Louis Film Festival in April 1992. The St. Louis Film Festival Inc. was subsequently established as a Missouri not-for-profit corporation in July 1992 and received its 501(c)3 status from the IRS in April 1993. In 2002, the organization was renamed Cinema St. Louis to reflect its commitment to yearround programming beyond the festival. Now in its 27th year, Cinema St. Louis (CSL) presents five annual events and co-presents additional film-related programming through the year. The organization’s premier event is the Whitaker St. Louis International Film Festival (SLIFF). The 27th Annual SLIFF — held Nov. 1-11 — continues to provide the opportunity for St. Louis filmgoers to view the finest in world cinema — international films, documentaries, American indies, and shorts that can only be seen on the big screen at the festival. SLIFF will present our usual array of fest buzz films and Oscar contenders, including “3 Faces,” “Ash Is Purest White,” “Ben Is Back,” “Boy Erased,” “Capernaum,” “The Captain,” “The Chaperone,” “Cold War,” “Destroyer,” “Diane,” “Dogman,” “Everybody Knows,” “The Front Runner,” “Green Book,” “If Beale Street Could Talk,” “The Image Book,” “Little Woods,” “Long Day’s Journey Into Night,” “Mapplethorpe,” “Non-Fiction,” “Shoplifters,” “Support the Girls,” “Transit,” “Vox Lux,” “What They Had,” “Widows,” “Wildlife,” and “Zama.” SLIFF also honors seven significant film figures with our annual awards: Joe Edwards and John Goodman with Lifetime Achievement Jim Finn Jane Gillooly Awards; Jason Reitman with a Contemporary Cinema Award; Jim Finn, Jane Gillooly, and Karyn Kusama with Charles Guggenheim Cinema St. Louis Awards; and Melanie Mayron with a Women in Film Award. As part of SLIFF, CSL presents the annual Georgia Frontiere Cinema for Students Program, which offers free screenings (both at venues and in schools) to St. Louis-area elementary, middle and high schools. Beyond SLIFF, CSL has also steadily increased its year-round presence with additional programming. Since 2002, CSL has annually presented the St. Louis Filmmakers Showcase, held in July, which highlights work made by filmmakers with St. Louis roots. Mayron Jason Reitman InMelanie 2009, CSL launched an annual French Film Festival. In 2011, that fest was refocused to concentrate exclusively on older works — it’s now known as the Classic French Film Festival and is held in March. In 2010, CSL officially added the LGBTQ-focused QFest to its annual lineup (CSL copresented QFest during the two previous years). QFest takes place in April. In 2013 and 2014, CSL presented a children’s film festival, SLIFF/Kids, which featured both free screenings and filmmaking camps. The free filmmaking camps continue to be held in July and August — in conjunction with both the St. Louis Public Library and University City Library — but the family programming of SLIFF/Kids has now been incorporated into SLIFF. CSL added another annual event to its portfolio in 2014, when it took charge of the St. Louis component of the 48 Hour Film Project. The event occurs in June. CSL also holds individual screenings, film series, and educational programs throughout the year. In 2011, for example, CSL presented the highly successful Vincentennial, a 10day celebration of native St. Louisan Vincent Price’s 100th birthday. CSL frequently works in conjunction with other St. Louis organizations, including collaborations with Citygarden, St. Louis Science Center, Washington University’s Film & Media Archive, Webster University Film Series, Opera Theatre of St. Louis, St. Louis Public Library, Missouri History Museum and Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis. NOVEMBER 2018 | CROSSROADS | 15
For the Love of Food
Freshen up HOLIDAY
ENTERTAINING
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Grapes and Balsamic Glaze Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4
Ingredients:
1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved lengthwise 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil pinch of salt freshly ground black pepper, to taste
T
he holiday season is typically marked by gatherings of friends and family. Whether you’re hosting overnight guests, drop-in visitors or an important seasonal meal, taking a fresh approach to the menu can make the get-together more special. As you prepare for the festivities, consider recipes that feature healthy ingredients such as versatile California grapes, which come in three vibrant colors – red, green and black – and can add a palate-pleasing crunch and plenty of taste to everything from main dishes to sides and even desserts. Heart-healthy grapes are also perfect on their own as a snack and their natural beauty can help enhance any table as an edible garnish or fresh centerpiece. Using grapes as a featured ingredient in your holiday dishes can provide a fresh twist on seasonal dishes, such as this Grape Dutch Baby or these Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Grapes and Balsamic Glaze. For dessert, use the natural sweetness of grapes to create a smooth Grape Caramel Sauce that can be served as a topping for ice cream or other seasonal desserts. Find more holiday recipes at GrapesfromCalifornia.com.
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1 cup red California grapes 2 tablespoons ready-to-use balsamic glaze
Directions: Heat oven to 450 F. On baking sheet, toss sprouts with olive oil, salt and pepper, to taste, until sprouts are well-coated. Roast until deep golden brown, about 17-20 minutes, turning sprouts halfway through roasting. Stir in grapes and roast 3-5 minutes. Transfer to bowl and drizzle with glaze or drizzle platter with glaze and pile sprouts on top.
Nutritional information per serving: 150 calories; 3 g protein; 20 g carbohydrates; 7 g fat (42% calories from fat); 1 g saturated fat (6% calories from saturated fat); 0 mg cholesterol; 30 mg sodium; 4 g fiber.
For the Love of Food
Grape Caramel Sauce Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 15 minutes | Servings: 6 Ingredients: 1 pound green or red California grapes, divided 1 tablespoon lemon juice 3/4 cup sugar 1/4 cup water 1/3 cup heavy cream (optional) large pinch of salt ice cream Nutritional information per serving of sauce: 200 calories; 40 g carbohydrates; 5 g fat (22% calories from fat); 3 g saturated fat (14% calories from saturated fat); 15 mg cholesterol; 60 mg sodium; 1 g fiber.
Directions: In blender or food processor, combine 12 ounces grapes with lemon juice and puree. Set aside. Coarsely chop remaining grapes. In medium saucepan, combine sugar and water then bring to boil, stirring a few times. Simmer without stirring, brushing down sides of pot with brush dipped in water if crystals start forming. When mixture has turned deep, golden brown, remove from heat and whisk in pureed grapes until smooth sauce has formed. Turn on heat and simmer until mixture has reduced by onethird and forms smooth caramel sauce. Whisk in cream and salt; stir in chopped grapes and serve over ice cream.
Grape Dutch Baby Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 Ingredients: 3 large eggs 2/3 cup all-purpose flour 2/3 cup low-fat milk 1/2 teaspoon vanilla 1/2 teaspoon salt 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided 2 cups red California grapes, halved 2 tablespoons brown sugar 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon (optional) confectioners’ sugar Nutritional information per serving: 280 calories; 6 g protein; 22 g carbohydrates; 18 g fat (58% calories from fat); 10 g saturated fat (32% calories from saturated fat); 180 mg cholesterol; 380 mg sodium; 1 g fiber.
Directions: In 4-quart saucepan over medium-Heat oven to 450 F. Put large (10-inch) cast-iron or ovenproof skillet in oven. With electric mixer on high speed, beat eggs until frothy then beat in flour, milk, vanilla and salt, and beat until smooth, about 1 minute (batter will be thin). Remove skillet from oven and add 2 tablespoons butter, swirling to cover pan. Pour in batter and return to oven. Bake until puffed and golden brown, 14-19 minutes. While pancake is baking, in another skillet over high heat, melt remaining butter and add grapes, brown sugar and cinnamon, if desired. Cook until grapes are heated through and sugar has melted. Spoon grapes over pancake, sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar and serve.
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Entertainment
IS A QUEEN FAN’S DELIGHT
“Bohemian Rhapsody” photo Twentieth Century Fox
THE MUSIC OF QUEEN HAS PERMEATED MY ENTIRE LIFE. My parents were fans and even though it is a requirement of growing up that you reject the things your parents like, Queen was just too cool for me to kick to the curb. I even passed the bug on to my own kids who happily sing along to “Another One Bites the Dust” or “We Are the Champions” whenever they come on the radio. All of this is to say that I am way too close to objectively review a movie about the band and their charismatic frontman Freddie Mercury. I found “Bohemian Rhapsody” to be joyful and enthralling, led by a wax-museum-worthy performance by Rami Malek as Mercury. But I’m not at all convinced that it is a good movie. Helmed by Bryan Singer, a highly competent director by any metric, “Bohemian Rhapsody” is about as safe and conventional a musical biopic as you will find. This isn’t necessarily a problem, but when you’re talking about a movie about a band as daring and experimental as Queen, this almost feels like a disservice. Fortunately, the band’s music and story are powerful enough to blast through and pull you in. 18 | CROSSROADS | NOVEMBER 2018
We meet Mercury when he was still known as Farrokh Bulsara, the son of Parsi immigrants, and working as a baggage handler at Heathrow Airport in London. It’s not long after he meets Brian May (Gwilym Lee), Roger Taylor (Ben Hardy) and John Deacon (Joseph Mazzello) and the band begins their steady climb to stardom behind Mercury’s soaring vocals and flamboyant onstage persona. We get the tried and true rock n’ roll story arc with the rise from obscurity topped with excesses of fame and fortune on to ruin and humbling followed by a final grand redemption. As this formula plays out, some of the joy gets drained out of the movie. But when the music is front and center the thrill quickly returns. Moments in the studio as these four wildly different personalities gleefully tinker with iconic songs are pure magic. Unfortunately, Singer reverts to melodrama for the movie’s bass note and Mercury’s complex personal life involving romantic relationships with Mary Austin (Lucy Boynton), Paul Prenter (Allen Leech) and Jim Hutton (Aaron McCusker) too often become the sole focus of the film. The movie regains its footing after Mercury
learns he’s contracted AIDS and wrestles with the personal and public implications of his disease and his sexuality. The movie culminates in the band’s triumphant Live Aid performance, which gets recreated almost in its entirety. It would be easy to criticize Singer for dedicating a huge chunk of the movie to something anyone with access to YouTube can enjoy, but he earns the moment and it is fitting that Queen’s music is given center stage to top off the film. As a fan of this band, it would be easy to be disappointed that their movie is not a grand cinematic triumph. But the fact that there is a movie about Queen at all and that it’s pretty decent is good enough for me. You learn to take what you can get. “Bohemian Rhapsody” is rated PG-13 for thematic elements, suggestive material, drug content and language. BY MATHEW DEKINDER
Mathew DeKinder is a film critic and member of the St. Louis Film Critics Association, and also serves as the publisher of the Community News.
Community Calendar
November 3 – Adult scavenger hunt
An adult scavenger hunt takes place from 4 – 11 p.m. at Kokomo Joe’s Family Fun Center. The event benefits Habitat for Humanity St. Charles County. Register a team, sponsorships www.MadDreamBuilders.com. For more information contact Kathy Hubbard at kkfundraisingandevents@gmail.com or 314-378-6129.
4 – Daylight Saving Time Ends 6 – Election Day 10 – Marine Corps Birthday 11 – Veterans Day 16 – Holiday bazaar
Immanuel Lutheran Church Wentzville Women in Mission invite you to attend their Holiday Bazaar from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., featuring homemade baked goods and holiday crafts. A hand-quilted quilt will be raffled along with a one-of-a-kind stained glass wall hanging. A lunch will be served from 11 a.m.
to 1:30 p.m. The church is located at 632 E. Hwy. N in Wentzville. Call 636-327-4416 for more information.
22 – Thanksgiving Day 23 – Black Friday 26 – Cyber Monday 30 – Trivia night
St. Charles Community College will host an Athletics Trivia Night at 7 p.m. and all trivia will be sports themed. Trivia will be held in the College Center gym on SCC’s campus, located at 4601 Mid Rivers Mall Drive in Cottleville. Doors open at 6 p.m. Parking for guests is free and available in both the Yellow and Orange Parking Lots. For a campus map, visit stchas.edu/maps. Tickets cost $25 per person or $200 per table of eight. Beer, soda and water are included, and teams are welcome to bring snacks. All proceeds will go to the SCC Athletic Department to increase scholarships and support SCC’s athletic teams with their travel, equipment and other needs to help them be successful. For more information and to register, visit www. stchas.edu/athleticstrivia, or contact Tim Brix at 636-922-8211 or tbrix@stchas.edu.
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