Crossroads: August 2021

Be

BEAR AWARE

AUGUST

2021 writers

VOL 17 | NO 8

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

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Copyright 2021 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 | AUGUST 2021

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.

AUGUST 4

Around Town Local news and events

9

Feature Story ‘Be Bear Aware’ With black bear sightings increasing in the St. Charles County area, smart choices can keep people and bears safe

12

Always an Adventure A great place to live, but it takes a lot of work

13

Moore on Life Left holding the bag

14

Automobile Alley 2021 Dodge Charger raises the bar for modern muscle cars

15

Entertainment ‘Superman’ and ‘Goonies’ director Richard Donner passes away at age 91

16

For the Love of Food Add powerful pairings to your plate

19

Community Calendar: August

2021

contents

On the Cover: Submitted photo

AUGUST 2021 | CROSSROADS | 3

Around Town

Respectable Resting Place Pitman Cemetery, which contains the grave of a Revolutionary War veteran, has undergone an extensive restoration thanks to the local community.

By Brett Auten

SUBMITTED PHOTOS Jacob’s Ladder Contractors (from left), William Snyder, Holly Snyder, and David Snyder, played a big part in restoring and fixing headstone at the over-200-year-old Pitman Cemetery. The Pitman Cemetery has received a noticeable face lift over the summer. With plenty of help and TLC, the cemetery, located near Highway K is close to returning to its former elegance.

For over 15 years, they have been trying to bring Pitman Cemetery back to some semblance of its former self.

Located near Highway K in Cottleville, the Pitman Cemetery is the resting place of one of St. Charles’ Revolutionary War veterans. Penny Pitman is a descendant of Thomas Pitman, the brother of John Pitman, the Revolutionary War Veteran, and with a little help from her friends, things are starting to take shape.

“Now, you can tell what it is,” she said. “It looks like a peaceful, respectful cemetery. The difference is night and day and it looks less like a storm came through.”

Pitman spearheaded the effort to restore and fix the headstone as she went about and contacted other family members and interested parties. She has received plenty of support, most notably, from the city of Cottleville, Pitman Funeral Homes, Jim Pitman and Eric Pitman.

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Jacob’s Ladder is a reputable cemetery restoration company located near Huntsville that played a big part in the process of restoring Pitman to its former elegance. The headstones received new bases and were glued together as part of its reassembly.

Also, later this month, the Pitman Cemetery will be one of 12 cemeteries featured in a countywide Missouri Bicentennial Cemetery Tour.

The cemetery had fallen in disrepair over 200 years and about 12 years ago the Saint Charles Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution cleared out the brush and reset some of the stones with the help of Ida and Carl Gerdiman, well known grave restorationists.

And then the Boone-Duden Historical Society helped clean up and restore some of the stones also.

When Lombardo Homes bought the property for the Legacy at PaCONTINUED PAGE 5

Around Town triot’s Ridge Subdivision, Scott Lewis explained to the company the significance of the cemetery and Lombardo decided to place a very nice ornamental fence around the cemetery and a beautiful front entrance gate. All through construction, Lombardo Homes removed brush, cut down dead trees, mowed the grass and took care of the cemetery. The local Saint Charles Chapter of the DAR annually cleans the cemetery with the help of Lombardo Homes and the city of Cottleville. Prior to that, you had to march through a jungle of honeysuckle to reach it.

“You had to take a machete and bushwhack your way there from a church parking lot,” Pitman said. “We are grateful for all of the help.”

Pitman said that because of the efforts of Scott Lewis, Historian for the city of Cottleville, the importance of the area was not forgotten.

“We are fortunate that individuals and groups like the DAR, BooneDuden Historical Society and the city of Cottleville have kept track

of these early settlers who included Revolutionary War veterans and preserve their graves,” Pitman said. “This is a family burying ground that might have been destroyed without that attention.”

It is believed that about 30 people are buried in the cemetery according to Boone-Duden Historical Society and that some enslaved people are buried there also. Pitman and crew are finding new clues, it seems, on a weekly basis.

“The more you look, the more you find,” she said.

John Pitman served during the Revolutionary War under George Rogers Clark and fought with Daniel Boone at the battle of Boonesborough. He served as St. Charles County Representative to the Missouri Constitutional Convention for statehood, and served as first tobacco commissioner. He had come here with his family in 1811 from Kentucky following along the same pattern as did Daniel Boone and his family.

BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF ST. CHARLES COUNTY AWARDED $20,000 TO FUEL ST. CHARLES COUNTY’S YOUNG PEOPLE’S BOLD AMBITIONS “We are proud to support like-minded organizations through our Local Grants Program,” said Jennifer Bradbury, Interim Executive Director of the Taco Bell Foundation. “Together with these organizations, we work to break down barriers so students nationwide can continue creating and innovating. This $10 million is going back to those in our local communities who are most hungry to learn.”

SUBMITTED PHOTO On June 28, Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Charles County received a $20,000 grant from the Taco Bell Foundation to support more than 800 youth in St. Charles County.

On June 28, Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Charles County received a $20,000 grant from the Taco Bell Foundation to support more than 800 youth in St. Charles County. The funds will go toward career/college prep sessions, mentoring, career exploration, technology, and other leadership programs that educate and inspire that next generation of leaders.

“We are honored to partner with the Taco Bell Foundation in championing the educational dreams of our young people,” said Karen Englert, Chief Executive Officer of Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Charles County. “The vision we share with the Taco Bell Foundation is one in which every young person has access to quality education, mentorship, and the resources they need to create great futures. Taco Bell Foundation funding is also supporting our new ACT Prep Program for members in grades 9-12 being piloted at the St. Charles Unit this summer.”

Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Charles County is one of more than 400 youth-serving organizations that will receive a portion of the $10 million in grants being presented by the Taco Bell Foundation this year. The grants are an example of the Taco Bell Foundation’s mission to fuel young people’s boldest educational ambitions.

AUGUST 2021 | CROSSROADS | 5

Around Town

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF ST CHARLES COUNTY GETS NEW PLAYGROUND

Submitted photo

On July 2, a new playground was dedicated at the Boys & Girls Club of St Charles County located in O’Fallon. The Boys & Girls Club raised $7,500 toward the purchase of this playground but needed another $7,500 to complete the project. The Kiwanis Club of O’Fallon partnered with the O’Fallon Fire Protection District to raise the money. The O’Fallon Firefighters Community Outreach, O’Fallon Professional Firefighters, and the O’Fallon Kiwanis each donated $2,500 for the playground. Children, firefighters, and Kiwanis members gathered together to celebrate the completion of this project.

ST. CHARLES COUNTY IMMUNIZATION CLINIC OFFERS BACK-TO-SCHOOL AND COVID-19 VACCINATIONS The St. Charles County Department of Public Health offers school-required vaccinations, as well as the COVID-19 vaccine, through its Immunization Clinic, located at 1650 Boone’s Lick Road in St. Charles. Immunizations build protection against preventable diseases, and Missouri state statutes require that students receive certain vaccinations to attend school.

“For nearly a year and a half, parents and children have taken precautions to protect against COVID-19,” says Department of Public Health Acting Director Sara Evers.

“As the school year begins, it is extremely important that students receive vaccinations that prevent the outbreak of numerous diseases. Getting routine vaccinations and following the school vaccination requirements reduces and, in many cases, eliminates the threat from contagious diseases in our community.”

To meet state requirements, students must present documentation of up-to-date immunization status to school officials prior to the first day of attendance. This documentation includes a record of the month, date, and year that each vaccination was received. The Immunization Clinic can administer the required vaccination and provide a record of vaccinations received by the student.

Back-to-school vaccinations are offered by appointment on Tuesdays and Thursdays in July and August. Please call 636-9491857 to schedule an appointment. Please note: A parent or guardian must accompany students under 18 during their visit.

Individuals should bring a current vaccina6 | CROSSROADS | AUGUST 2021

tion record to the appointment to ensure students receive all necessary vaccinations.

For a complete list of vaccinations available, please visit sccmo.org/vaccinations.

Vaccinations provided by the Immunization Clinic are offered in cooperation with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Services are payable by cash, check, or credit/debit card (includes a service fee). Those qualifying for the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program can obtain vaccinations at no cost. VFC eligible individuals must meet one of the following criteria: • Do not have health insurance.

• Have health insurance that does not cover immunizations.

• Covered by Medicaid.

• Native American or Alaskan Native.

COVID-19 vaccinations available through Immunization Clinic Clinical trials have shown COVID-19 vaccines to be safe and effective in preventing the illness, and the Department of Public Health is authorized to administer all authorized vaccine in accordance with the federal and state plans. The Immunization Clinic offers the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine for those ages 12 and older and the Moderna or Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccine for those ages 18 and older. Individuals ages 12-17 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

In May 2021, the CDC issued guidance on how fully vaccinated individuals can resume pre-pandemic activities. A person is considered fully vaccinated 14 days after receiving

the last required dose of vaccine (two doses for the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines or one dose of the Janssen vaccine). Individuals should expect to receive the second dose approximately 21 days after the first dose for the Pfizer vaccine or 28 days after for the Moderna product.

To schedule COVID-19 vaccination appointments through the Immunization Clinic, please call 636-949-1857.

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Around Town

Slugging Seniors The St. Charles Men's Senior Softball League celebrates ninth season of being the only league in St. Charles County for senior citizens.

By Brett Auten

Lining a shot into the gap. The thud of a ball landing in your mitt. The jokes, high-fives and back-and-forth with your teammates.

Memories like these leave an indelible mark in the mind of a die-hard baseball player and fan.

Two gentlemen in St. Charles County have made sure that those feelings continue to live on for those who still seek them.

The St. Charles Men's Senior Softball League sprinted out of the batter's box in 2013 and has been chugging along ever since. Last week, the league recognized Mark Palermo, who launched the league in 2013, and Herb Olmsted, who is the current league coordinator.

Standings and stats do not matter as much in this league as enjoyment, exercise and making new friends do. Though they don't round third and head for home like they used to, it doesn't prevent them from having a blast while doing it.

“You don’t quit playing softball because you get old,” Mike Bundy, a player in the league said. “You get old because you quit playing softball.”

Palermo was motivated to start the league after he grew tired of having to drive across the Missouri River to Kirkwood to play in a senior division.

The first season was 60-years-old and over. It soon switched to 55-yearsold and over. There are senior leagues in Fenton and Kirkwood, but none others that the organizers are aware of in St. Charles County.

The league has five teams, over 70 players and plays its games at Kiwanis Park in St. Charles. They play a 24-game season stretched out over 12 weeks. Perusing the rosters, there are 13 players in their 50s, 43 in their 60s, and 19 in their 70s. Players come from Arnold and Alton, Illinois to play in the league. Almost a quarter of the players are from St. Louis County. The average age this year was 66-years-old. Two years ago, the league had its oldest player at the age of 88.

Olmsted is in his fourth year of coordinator. He introduced umpires to the league. And he had to turn away a 50-and-over team who wanted to join.

“You don't want to be playing third base with a 50-year-old at the plate,” Olmsted said. “These guys still enjoy playing ball and still like to compete.”

There are some modified rules. Chief among them is a “scoring” plate off to the side of home plate to make sure there are no collisions (that means plays at the plate are forced outs, for those who are wondering).

As the embers of a competitive fire still smoke, there are occasionally some disagreements.

“If you get disappointed about a call, most of the time you drop it and move on,” Palermo, who turns 74-years-old next month, said. “There is a pretty good skill level out there. It's not a flophouse league. Everybody wants to win.”

“Getting angry in sports is kind of expected,” Olmsted, 69, added. “But nobody has ever come to blows.”

SUBMITTED PHOTOS Members of the St. Charles men's senior softball league pose for group pictures during one of the final gam es of the season. The organization recently recognized Mark Palermo, who launched the league in 2013, and Herb Olmsted, who is the current league coordinator.

AUGUST 2021 | CROSSROADS | 7

Around Town

HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS PARTICIPATE IN YOUTH TOUR

SUBMITTED PHOTO Missouri's 58th annual Missouri Electric Youth Tour was held June 16-18 and included delegates from the area sponsored by Cuivre River Electric Cooperative. Pictured (from left) are Natalie Benton, Fort Zumwalt East High School; Ella Smith, Warrenton High School; and Jaden Zelidon, Liberty High School. Not pictured are Taylor Shay-Jakul, Sanjana Anand and Amanda Yoder, all of Liberty High School. Besides attending the program, the six delegates sponsored CREC received a $1,000 scholarship and a laptop.

Seventy high school students participated in Missouri's 58th annual Missouri Electric Youth Tour, June 16-18. Local delegates sponsored by Cuivre River Electric Cooperative were Natalie Benton, Fort Zumwalt East High School; Ella Smith, Warrenton High School and Jaden Zelidon, Taylor Shay-Jakul, Sanjana Anand and Amanda Yoder, all of Liberty High School.

While the traditional seven-day tour to Washington D.C. was unable to happen because of lingering COVID-19 concerns, that didn’t stop Missouri’s electric cooperatives from providing local students with a great opportunity. The 2021 delegates took part in a three-day conference, which offered them opportunities to learn firsthand what it is like to be involved in politics, serve in leadership positions, ways to serve their community and more.

The delegates sponsored by CREC also received a $1,000 scholarship and a laptop.

“The Youth Tour is the highlight of the summer for many students no matter the format and we’re proud to have the best and brightest become a part of our Youth Tour family,” said Chris Massman, Vice President of Member Services for the Association of Missouri Electric Cooperatives.

Highlights included the youth participating virtually with representatives from their 8 | CROSSROADS | AUGUST 2021

congressional districts and taking online tours of famous monuments. The group also heard from past Youth Tour delegates,

one of which is now a member of the United States Secret Service. These alumni spoke to them about their Youth Tour experiences and how the opportunity helped shape their future college and career choices.

Other events included participation in electrical related activities, which included the students making their own extension cords. This presentation was led by Keith Mueller, who is a former Youth Tour delegate and now an employee of a Missouri electric cooperative. The students also heard from representatives from State Technical College, Western Governors University (WGU) and the University of Missouri.

The conference wrapped up with a motivational speaker. Students heard from Dan Meers, who entertains people and speaks to them about the power of positivity. Dan is the man in the KC Wolf mascot costume at all Kansas City Chiefs games and when he’s not entertaining 40,000 on game day, he is traveling the country speaking to groups and telling his story.

Around Town

Be

BEAR AWARE

By Brett Auten

Photos courtesy Missouri Department of Conservation

THEY HAVE BEEN OUR NEIGHBORS

With black bear sightings increasing in the St. Charles County area, smart choices can keep people and bears safe.

While a natural and exciting part of Missouri’s woods, black bears do not make good dinner guests. The Missouri Department of Conservation recommends taking steps to avoid tempting them with human food, especially in areas where bears have been sighted.

since we got here. But this year, more than ever, they are making themselves known.

The Missouri Department of Conservation has received several reports of recent bear sightings all over the region. They remind us that black bears are becoming a growing part of the St. Louis regional landscape.

“This year, we have seen exponential growth in the number of sightings in Wentzville, New Melle, and other areas,” Dan Zarlenga, Media Specialist with the St. Louis Region Missouri Department of Conservation, said. “It wasn't unusual, in the past, to have sightings, but this year, we have even seen a couple in St. Louis County. This is probably a sign of things to come. This is the new reality, not a fluke year. I expect, in the future, it won't be newsworthy. It will

be like seeing coyotes or raccoons.”

But why the increase in sightings lately?

“St. Charles County is a mix of not overlydeveloped (land) and developed,” Zarlenga said. “That is a recipe for a bear encounter.”

According to Zarlenga, research indicates that Missouri is currently home to around 800 black bears, and that population is growing by nine percent yearly. Only one species can be found in this state, the American black bear. Though multiple color phases can be found in Missouri with, such that a bear’s fur can be brown, red or cinnamon in color.

“Most of our bears are found in the southern part of the state,” Tom Meister, MDC Wildlife Damage Control Biologist for MDC’s St. Louis Region, said. “That’s where we have the largest tracts of forested habitat,” CONTINUED PAGE 10 AUGUST 2021 | CROSSROADS | 9

Meister said that the population is expanding, both in total numbers and range. As the population grows and expands, bears are showing up in areas further north. Additionally, late spring/early summer is prime time for bears to be on the move. Young bears begin to wander seeking food and an area to settle and adult males begin moving large distances in search of females. The recent uptick in sightings is likely a combination of bear range expanding and the time of year when bears can travel large distances.

These creatures are part of the state’s natural history and many enjoy the thought of seeing one of these impressive animals. With an expanding population of bears; however, comes an increased potential of human-bear interactions.

10 | CROSSROADS | AUGUST 2021

While generally not aggressive, like any wild animal, black bears are driven to find food. It takes a lot of calories to fuel an animal that typically weighs several hundred pounds and they can be attracted to a variety of food sources this time of year.

Zarlenga said to think of bears as giant raccoons. They are attracted to the same things.

Food can make the difference between peacefully sharing Missouri’s landscape with bears and problematic conflicts. Food, or rather the lack of it, is key to avoiding conflicts with bears. Meister stressed not to offer them food, either intentionally or unintentionally. Intentionally feeding bears can be dangerous as it makes the bears comfortable around people. It can also lead bears

BEAR SAFETY TIPS

to cause significant damage to property while searching for a meal.

A bear that becomes accustomed to obtaining food from humans can become a problem which could result in an increased number of encounters, property damage, bold behavior and ultimately the euthanizing of the bear.

“A fed bear is a dead bear,” Zarlenga said. “These types of situations can be prevented by ensuring bears don’t have access to easy foods. A lot of this is common sense stuff.”

Despite their primary concentration in the Ozarks, the latest sightings in the St. Louis region support MDC wildlife biologists’ expectation that bear encounters will continue to increase as time goes by.

Report bear sightings and submit photos online at mdc.mo.gov/reportbears.

In addition to directly educating Missourians on how to be aware about black bears in the state, the Missouri Department of Conservation is also affiliated with the BearWise program. BearWise is a multi-state education effort developed by black bear biologists and supported by state wildlife agencies that provides sound information and smart solutions that help people, neighborhoods and communities prevent problems with black bears and keep bears wild. BearWise shares ways to prevent conflicts, provides resources to resolve problems and encourages community initiatives to keep bears wild.

The Missouri Department of Conservation suggests the following tips to avoid issues if a bear has been sighted in your neck of the woods: • Store garbage, recyclables and compost inside a secure building or in a bear-proof container or location.

• Regularly clean and disinfect trash containers to minimize smells that could attract bears.

• Keep grills and smokers clean and store them inside.

• Don’t leave pet food outside. Feed pets a portion at each meal and remove the empty containers.

• Refrain from using bird feeders in bear country from April through November. If in use, hang them at least 10 feet high and four feet away from any structure. Keep in mind that even if a bear cannot get to the birdseed, the scent could still attract it to the area.

• Use electric fencing to keep bears away from beehives, chicken coops, vegetable gardens, orchards and other potential food sources.

• Never deliberately offer a bear food.

• Keep campsites clean and store all food, toiletries and trash in a secure vehicle or strung high between two trees.

• Do not keep food or toiletries in a tent, and do not burn or bury garbage or food waste.

• Make noise, such as clapping, singing, or talking loudly, while hiking to prevent surprising a bear.

• Travel in a group if possible.

• Keep dogs leashed.

• Be aware of surroundings. If there are signs of a bear, such as tracks or scat, avoid the area.

• Leave bears alone. Do not approach them, and make sure they have an escape route.

AUGUST 2021 | CROSSROADS | 11

Always An Adventure

BY AVALANCHE

A Great Place to Live, But it Takes a Lot of Work THE CHOICE TO LIVE IN RURAL AREAS is generally driven by

a value system that prioritizes peace and quiet over convenience and crowds, proximity to wide-open countryside over proximity to shopping, dining and medical care, and a short commute for recreation versus a long drive to work. All true, but those of us in the less-travelled regions tend to gloss over the extra work that it takes to live and stay here.

Basic services such as water and sewer are rarely considered when living in a planned community located in a larger metro area, except when it comes time to pay the monthly bill, and during those rare occasions when those services are interrupted. A phone call to utility company usually takes care of any outages. Out here, we provide our own services, and pay the sometimes steep price to keep things running.

Just a few months ago I looked out of my bedroom window into the backyard and saw what appeared to be a gopher hole that had appeared as the snow melted. I knew that was not a good place to see such an opening, as it was where our concrete septic tank was located. Sure enough, the hole in question was evidence of the decaying condition of our sewage tank. Once the problem was identified, and the necessary permit obtained, getting a good, reputable excavator out here to perform the work took another three months. Many of the local contractors prefer to work up in the large resort areas, where there are restaurants open for lunch, cell phone service and a well-heeled clientele to pay a premium for their services. We’re working class out here, and our heels – and bank accounts – are less well. Our tank repair bill came in at about two gallons of gas less than five figures, even with me moving materials with my skid steer loader; so much for the down payment for a new truck.

This year, it’s not just the waste water disposal issue – the adjacent neighborhood had to replace their community water supply tank. With 12 | CROSSROADS | AUGUST 2021

only 10 homes in the HOA, it took two years to come up with the funds for the tank. A power line had to be moved to accommodate the new tank, a process nearly as tedious and convoluted as moving a state highway. Once the tank components were on site, their neighborhood had to conjure up the manpower to assemble the tank in place. Five guys working on the project meant that half the households have sweat in the project. I can hear the sounds of construction going on as I type this. They’ll be relieved to have a good supply of the wet stuff on hand, as they’ve only had one day’s worth of water on hand at any given time for over two years.

Management of water, from storage to disposal isn’t the only issue this season. Exceptional drought conditions and temps into the mid-90’s every day have once again decreased our water supply to meager levels.

We’re fortunate to have one of the oldest decreed water rights in the state, so we don’t have to curtail our use to accommodate a senior user ahead of us. Having said that, our water supply is roughly 1/3 of what we have a right for, and it’s still summer time. Flows this low are less than what typically runs during the winter. While most folks are very cognizant of the limitations on our resource, a few residents have required more than one strongly-worded letter to accept the fact that it’s not 1979 here, when there was an abundance of water and few people to use it. There is no more new frontier, this is it. Keeping the water flowing to all the properties, not just a select few with giant green yards, has taken quite a bit of effort this summer.

So, my commute (normally a walk) to the local turkey hunting grounds was pre-empted this season by utility work. Backpacking and hiking season, well under way for most (also within walking distance) hasn’t begun for me due to similar tasks. As I explain to potential real estate buyers here, it’s a great place to live, but it takes a lot of work.

Moore On Life

LEFT HOLDING THE BAG

BY CINDY MOORE

SHOPPING IS A GREAT STRESS RELIEVER FOR ME. If I ever need to decom-

press I just grab a friend (her name’s VISA) and we go out on the town and soon feel lots better.

On the way we picked up my annoying Aunt Fiona. She had asked me to go out to lunch with her the week before, but I made up a lame excuse about having to water the lawn. She quickly reminded me that I had an automatic sprinkling system. Darn her photographic memory! I was forced to repent and reschedule.

We soon stopped at one of my favorite stores along the way. It’s an outlet and carries all kinds of interesting one-of-a-kinds. If you find something you better grab it because it won’t be there the following day.

We split up then met later. Fiona was having a great time, better than me apparently. Her shopping basket was half full while I could still see the bottom of mine.

“What’s the matter dear?” she asked. “Not having much luck?”

“Hmph,” I muttered. “I’ve got my eye on a few things.”

She was always trying to one up me on something.

We rounded the corner when something caught our attention mid-shelf—an adorable bag. We both grabbed onto it at the same time. I smiled so she could see I was clearly the better person, but tightened my grip just the same. She grinned as well, but clenched her teeth and gave the object of our desire a forcible tug.

Hmm, the old girl was going to play tough, huh? Well I wasn’t about to release my grasp either since her cart was half full and I deserved the item much more than she did.

I saw that her will was strengthening as well as her hold. I had to think fast. I gave the object a wicked twist; her poor arthritic hands could not withstand such a maneuver. I won the battle and came home the victor.

My husband spied my purchase and examined it closely then chortled, “What in the name of all that’s ridiculous do you need a cat-carrying bag for?”

I pretended I knew exactly what it was.

“Oh calm down. Aunt Fiona’s birthday’s next week.”

I guess she’d won after all.

AUGUST 2021 | CROSSROADS | 13

Automobile Alley

2021

DODGE CHARGER RAISES THE BAR FOR MODERN MUSCLE CARS AVAILABLE FOR 2021, the Dodge Charger is offered with unprecedented assertive horsepower. Without question, if you have a craving for overwhelming acceleration, this four-door automobile is in a class of its own.

It raises the bar as the world’s first mass-produced, high-performance sedan. That testimony in itself is immeasurable!

I recently evaluated the Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye that has a performance rating of just scarcely under 800-horsepower. With premium fuel, EPA figures show 12-mpg city/21-mpg highway. What's this all mean to an outsider within the automotive cosmos?

How about a factory top end "warp speed" of 203-MPH, and accelerates from 0-60 MPH in just slightly over three seconds.

This comfortable, road-worthy modern muscle car translates to confident driving mannerisms and a sure-footed sensation. It's also featured with electric power steering for improved steering dynamics. This headturning, five-passenger automobile starts with being manufactured on their global platform shared with the Dodge Challenger. From there, engineers refined this thunderous automobile to overtake much of the competition.

But let’s take a moment to briefly recap the Charger product mix. The base version comes equipped with the award winning 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine, rated at 300 horsepower. The model line-up with this six cylinder powerplant is offered in the Charger SXT, SXT AWD, GT and GT AWD models. The all-wheeldrive versions include the segment’s most technologically advanced AWD system. And with a bit more insight regarding the engines offered, they also make available the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 with 370 horsepower on the R/T models and a naturally aspirated 392 HEMI V-8 with best-in-class 485 horsepower, 14 | CROSSROADS | AUGUST 2021

contributing to the most horsepower per dollar of any sedan in the industry. Additionally, a 717-horsepower, 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI SRT Hellcat V-8 is also featured. This all helps to set the stage for their aforementioned new 797-horsepower supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI high-output V-8 on the SRT Hellcat Redeye.

All engine combinations are linked with an eight-speed innovative and cutting edge automatic transmission. Charger Hellcat Redeye also features a contemporary yet aggressive, radical widebody exterior with fender flares integrated into the front and rear fascia assemblies. This adds some 3.5 inches of width over the wider alloy wheels and Pirelli high performance tires. This formula translates to sure footed traction and increased tire patch contact with the road. The front fascia was reworked to provide the most direct outside air mapping to travel into the radiator and maintain ideal operating temperature.

This widebody is also featured with a two piece SRT Hellcat Redeye fender badge, with a Black Chrome finish and a sinister-appearing, red jewel eye hallmark garnish. The comfortable seating is certainly a welcomed enhancement, as is the custom trim look of the interior. Noteworthy, is their standard Launch Control, Launch Assist and Line Lock personalized component. Launch Control manages tire slip to achieve consistent straight-line acceleration, Launch Assist helps govern wheel hop and Line Lock keeps the vehicle stationary in order to carry out burnouts with the rear tires.

Both 2021 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat and SRT Hellcat Redeye models feature a newly designed yet ominous fully functional performance hood that is engineered to "force feed" air into the engine. All models come with a convenient and immense size trunk. The Hell-

cat Redeye delivers excellent braking performance with its massive racing inspired standard Brembo high performance six-piston (front) and four-piston (rear) brake calipers and vented steel rotors at all four corners. And as expected, all HEMI V-8 Chargers feature a standard 2.75-inch electronically controlled active exhaust system, delivering a signature Dodge muscle car rumbling note that helps support the car's level of power.

The 2021 Dodge Chargers have a starting price of $30,570, the Hellcat Redeye shows an MSRP of $81,270. The base warranty is 36-months or 36,000 miles.

Entertainment

‘Superman’ and ‘Goonies’

Director Richard Donner Passes Away at Age 91

BY STEVE BRYAN

ALTHOUGH STAN LEE AND MARVEL STUDIOS typically re-

ceive credit for the cinematic superhero bonanza, Richard Donner arguably started the ball rolling with 1978’s “Superman.” Donner, who passed away on July 5 at the age of 91, directed films ranging from 1976’s terrifying “The Omen” to the hilarious pairing of Mel Gibson and Danny Glover in the “Lethal Weapon” franchise. Those who came of age in the 1980s will no doubt remember “The Goonies,” a youthful adventure that spoke to those of us who didn’t quite fit in. Donner even directed the inimitable Bill Murray in the hilarious holiday-themed film “Scrooged.”

Prior to 1978, men and women in capes, masks and tights were more common on television than the big screen. A tongue-in-cheek version of “Batman” became a small-screen hit in the late 1960’s thanks to its colorful villains and catch phrases. Nicholas Hammond, the actor who played Friedrich in 1965’s “The Sound of Music,” starred in the CBS live action series “The Amazing Spider-Man” in the late 1970’s. Around the same time, actor Reb Brown played Captain America in two TV movies (Chris Evans’ more recent portrayal of Steve Rogers wiped out all prior versions of the character).

Donner and his crew quickly set the bar high for superhero films. He and his crew shot the original film and the sequel at the same time, but, according to Wikipedia, tensions with the producers temporarily halted work on the second film. The late Christopher Reeve skillfully played both mild-mannered Clark Kent and his heroic alter ego in four films.

Reeve embodied Clark perfectly and could become Superman as easily as he took off his glasses. Despite the other men who wore the cape and tights, many fans believe that Christopher Reeve is the one true Superman.

Looking at his credits, it’s clear that Richard Donner managed radically different films throughout his career. His sense of humor permeated his work, especially the “Lethal Weapon” movies. Under his direction, Mel Gibson played Martin Riggs, a policer officer on the edge who becomes partners with straight-laced homicide detective Roger Murtaugh (Glover). Gibson kicks off the film with a drug deal scene that is both funny and incredibly violent at the same time. In the first sequel, the outrageous Joe Pesci plays a federal witness who gives the detectives a crash course in money laundering.

On the heels of “Lethal Weapon,” the director’s funny bone made “Scrooged” a huge holiday hit. Before “Ghostbusters II” hit the big screen months later, Bill Murray played a television executive in this retelling of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.” Murray’s character, Frank Cross, must examine his past and present behavior with the help of a few abusive spirits. Donner’s direction and the inspired casting of Bill Murray and Carol Kane made this film a holiday classic.

Richard Donner left a legacy of great films for movie fans. Rest in peace, Mr. Donnor, and thank you for your life, work and humor. You will be missed.

Photos courtesy IMDb.com AUGUST 2021 | CROSSROADS | 15

For the Love of Food

J

oining loved ones at the family table is an important moment for many, both as a filling way to enjoy a meal and an emotionally satisfying way to catch up on all the day’s events.

Make those moments count by combining nutritious ingredients and creating recipes that can quickly become favorites.

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Your Plate

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Powerful Pairings to e ow

As part of the Powerful Pairings initiative – launched by the United Sorghum Checkoff Program, National Pork Board and USA Pulses – these recipes call for pulses, which include lentils, chickpeas dry peas, and beans; sorghum, similar to rice or quinoa filled with nutrients, texture and taste; and pork, rich in flavor, versatile and sustainable with nutritious qualities.

Combined, these three ingredients can work together in sweet and savory dishes alike, and they shine with a multitude of herbs, spices and sauces from around the world. A powerhouse nutritional trio, they include foods from the protein, vegetable and grain groups outlined in MyPlate, a template for balance, variety and moderation.

Plus, the taste and versatility of these ingredients make it easier to achieve more family meals, which promotes cohesion, communication and relationships, helping loved ones celebrate simple joys together and be more prepared for uncertainty and difficult life moments.

Mediterranean Grain Bowl

with Pork Skewers

PREP TIME 45 minutes, plus 2 hours marinate time COOK TIME 75 minutes SERVINGS 6 (1 pork skewer, 2/3 cup sorghum, 2 tablespoons hummus)

All recipes courtesy of the United Sorghum Checkoff Program, National Pork Board and USA Pulses.

16 | CROSSROADS | AUGUST 2021

For the Love of Food RED LENTIL HUMMUS • 1 1/3 cups water • 1/3 cup dried red lentils • 1 tablespoon olive oil • 1 tablespoon tahini • 1 tablespoon lemon juice • 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic • 1/2 teaspoon cumin • 1/4 teaspoon salt • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper PORK SKEWERS with SORGHUM • 12 ounces pork loin roast, trimmed of fat • 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided • 2 teaspoons minced garlic • 1 teaspoon lemon zest • 1 teaspoon ground cumin • 1 teaspoon salt • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper • 1 sweet onion, chopped • 3 cups no-salt-added chicken stock • 3/4 cup whole-grain sorghum, rinsed and drained • 1 cup canned garbanzo beans (chickpeas), rinsed, drained and dried with paper towels • 1 1/2 cups halved cherry tomatoes • 1 cup arugula • 1 cup chopped cucumber • 2/3 cup crumbled feta cheese • 1/2 cup kalamata olives

Sorghum Split Pea Soup

TO MAKE RED LENTIL HUMMUS: In small saucepan, combine water and dried red lentils; bring to boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, stirring occasionally, about 30 minutes, or until lentils split and become soft. Cool and transfer to food processor. Add olive oil, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, salt and black pepper; process 30-60 seconds, or until smooth, stopping to scrape down sides as needed. Transfer to airtight container and store in refrigerator up to 5 days until serving time.

TO MAKE PORK SKEWERS WITH SORGHUM: Cut pork loin into 1-inch cubes. Place in re-sealable plastic bag set in shallow dish. In small bowl, combine 3 tablespoons olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, cumin, salt and black pepper. Pour half olive oil mixture over meat, reserving remaining half. Seal bag; turn to coat meat. Marinate in refrigerator 2 hours, turning bag occasionally.

In medium saucepan, heat remaining olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion, cook and stir 6-8 minutes, or until tender. Add stock and bring to boil. Add sorghum.

Reduce heat and simmer, covered, 45-60 minutes, or until sorghum is tender, stirring occasionally.

Preheat oven to 400 F. Arrange chickpeas on foil-lined 15-by-10-by-1-inch baking pan. Drizzle with reserved olive oil mixture; toss to coat. Roast 20-30 minutes, or until chickpeas are toasted and crispy, stirring occasionally. Remove from oven and increase oven to 500 F. Drain meat, discarding marinade. Divide among six wooden or metal skewers. Arrange skewers on wire rack on baking sheet and bake 10 minutes, or until meat is slightly pink in center, turning once halfway through.

TO SERVE: divide cooked sorghum between six shallow bowls. Top with tomatoes, arugula, cucumber, feta cheese, olives, chickpeas and Red Lentil Hummus. Serve with pork skewers.

Nutritional information per serving: 505 calories; 28 g total fat (8 g saturated fat); 14 mg cholesterol; 528 mg sodium; 43 g total carbohydrates (8 g dietary fiber, 6 g sugars); 23 g protein; 1% vitamin D; 15% calcium; 19% iron; 16% potassium; 361 mg phosphorus (29%).

PREP TIME: 20 minutes | COOK TIME: 60 minutes | SERVINGS: 6 (1 1/4 cup each)

• 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil • 1 onion, chopped • 3/4 cup sliced carrots • 3/4 cup sliced celery • salt, to taste • pepper, to taste • 1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic • 6 cups no-salt-added chicken stock • 1 1/4 cups green split peas • 1 small ham bone • 2/3 cup chopped ham • 2/3 cup pearled sorghum • 4 sprigs thyme • 2 bay leaves • 1 1/2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce • chopped fresh thyme (optional) • cracked black pepper (optional) CONTINUED PAGE 18 AUGUST 2021 | CROSSROADS | 17

For the Love of Food TO MAKE SORGHUM SPLIT PEA SOUP: In 4-quart stock pot or large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, celery and garlic; season with salt and pepper, to taste, and cook, stirring occasionally, 10-12 minutes, or until onion is tender. Add chicken stock, split peas, ham bone, ham, sorghum, thyme sprigs and bay leaves. Bring to boil; reduce heat and simmer, covered, 45-60 minutes, or until split peas are soft and sorghum is tender.

Remove ham bone, thyme sprigs and bay leaves from soup. Remove ham from bone, chop ham and return to pot. Discard bone, thyme sprigs and bay leaves. Add Worcestershire sauce and season with salt and pepper, to taste.

Garnish with chopped fresh thyme and cracked black pepper, if desired.

Lemon-Garlic Tenderloin

with Warm Sorghum Salad

PREP TIME: 25 minutes | COOK TIME: 70 minutes | SERVINGS: 6 (2 ounces pork, 3/4 cup sorghum salad)

• 2 cups vegetable broth • 2 cups water • 1 cup whole-grain sorghum • 2 tablespoons olive oil • 1 tablespoon minced garlic • 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley • 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon zest • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1/2 teaspoon pepper • 1 pork tenderloin (16 ounces), trimmed of fat • 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch pieces • 1 cup kidney beans, rinsed and drained • 1/2 cup dried cranberries • 1/2 cup pecan halves

18 | CROSSROADS | AUGUST 2021

Preheat oven to 425 F. In medium saucepan, combine vegetable broth and water.

Bring to boil. Add sorghum. Reduce heat to simmer and cook, covered, 45-60 minutes, or until tender.

In medium bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, parsley, lemon zest, salt and pepper.

Drizzle half oil mixture on pork; rub in with fingers. Place pork in shallow roasting pan. Add sweet potatoes to bowl with remaining oil mixture. Toss to coat and set aside.

Roast pork, uncovered, 10 minutes. Arrange sweet potatoes around pork and roast 15-20 minutes, or until pork reaches 145 F internal temperature and potatoes are tender. Remove pork from pan. Cover; let stand 10 minutes.

Stir roasted sweet potatoes, beans, cranberries and pecan halves into cooked sorghum and heat through.

Slice pork tenderloin and serve with warm sorghum salad.

Nutritional information per serving: 436 calories; 15 g total fat (2 g saturated fat); 55 mg cholesterol; 369 mg sodium; 55 g total carbohydrates (8 g dietary fiber, 16 g sugars); 25 g protein; 2% vitamin D; 6% calcium; 20% iron; 20% potassium; 377 mg phosphorus (30%).

Community Calendar

4

Coast Guard Birthday

7

Purple Heart Day

19

National Aviation Day

21

Senior Citizens Day

26

W omen’s Equality Day

AUGUST AUGUST 2021 | CROSSROADS | 19

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