THE
season OF giving
WWW.PBTC.NET
2 | CROSSROADS | DECEMBER 2019
DECEMBER 5
2019
contents
Around Town Local news and events
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Feature Story The season of giving Local first responders are giving back this holiday season with several charity drives to benefit the community
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Always an Adventure Way up in high camp
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Moore on Life Christmas pains
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Automobile Alley 2019 Ford Edge comes loaded with standard features
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Food Pop up holiday traditions new and old
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Entertainment Can the DC Extended Universe take on Marvel in 2020?
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Advertiser Profile RV owners and dreamers: some 20/20 insights
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Community Calendar: December
On the Cover: Photos provided by SCCAD
DECEMBER 2019 | CROSSROADS | 3
DECEMBER
2019 writers
VOL 15 | NO 12
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, Russ Patton Staff Writer Brett Auten
Cindy Moore is the mother of three superlative kids, servant of two self-indulgent felines and wife to one nifty husband. Her ficticious occupation? Archeological Humorist: someone who unearths absurdity and hilarity in strange and unusual places including public restrooms, the lint filter, and church meetings. Most recently, she excavated a find in her neighbor’s bird feeder.
BY DAVID FINKELSTEIN
For advertising information, please contact us at:
Community News 2139 Bryan Valley Commercial Dr. O’Fallon, MO 63366 Ph: 636.379.1775 Fx: 636.379.1632
www.mycnews.com
Copyright 2019 Huneke Publications, Inc. No part of the publication may be reproduced in any form without the expressed written consent of the publisher. Crossroads is a trademark of Huneke Publications, Inc. Any published use of Crossroads implying affiliation is strictly prohibited.
David Finkelstein is a Master/ Skill Automotive Service Technician and a shop owner. He’s also invented garage service tools for mechanics and has served on both National and local Automotive Trade Industry Boards. He pioneered “Car Talk Radio” starting out with KMOX/CBS Radio and hosted “Auto Talk” on KFTK/FOX News Radio for 15-years. David tests and evaluates new vehicles weekly and does some consulting with various auto manufacturers.
AUTOMOBILE ALLEY – PG. 14
BY STEVE BRYAN
ENTERTAINMENT – PG. 15
4 | CROSSROADS | DECEMBER 2019
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.
Around Town
Choral Arts Singers host ‘Christmas Around the World’ holiday concerts Choral Arts Singers will presSubmitted photo ent “Christmas Around the World,” a concert featuring favorite holiday songs from around the globe, including Europe, Africa, Asia and America sung in nine languages. From French, Spanish and Norwegian carols, to Nigerian drums, to Hollywood classics, come for these fun and festive songs. Concerts are Dec. 6 at 7:30 p.m. at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church at 150 W Hwy D in New Melle, Dec. 8 at 3 p.m. at Assumption Chapel at Assumption Catholic Church at 403 N Main St. in O’Fallon and Dec. 15 at 3 p.m. at Wentzville United Methodist Church at 725 Wall St. in Wentzville. There is no admission charge and donations are appreciated. For more information visit www.concertarts.org.
Boone Trail Elementary celebrates 29th Annual Boone Trail Days Students at Boone Trail Elementary in the Wentzville School District had an opportunity to participate in a long-held tradition that dates back to the opening of their school. Boone Trail Days is a chance for students to learn what life was like for Americans who lived in the 1800s. The 29th annual celebration occurred indoors on Oct. 10, due to the steady rain that morning, but still provided plenty of opportunities for students to take part in hands-on activities like making rope and butter, and spinning wool. They also enjoyed demonstrations on pioneer life, like blacksmithing, and learned about local history such as the Daniel Boone Trail. “Year 29 and we’re still going strong,” Boone Trail Principal Michelle Cleve said. “Our students and families look forward to this event every year. We had to move our presenters inside due to weather, but it’s a tradition held so dear that we couldn’t let the rain wash it away.” Boone Trail Days starts in the classroom in the weeks leading up to the main event, where teachers incorporate lessons about Native Americans and American pioneers into the curriculum. Thursday is highlighted by presentations from historical reenactors and other living exhibits of life in the 1800s. The event is capped off on Friday night with games and hayrides, bringing families together to celebrate a fall tradition that dates back to the opening of the school nearly 30 years ago. Among the presenters this year were a trapper family, a civil war reenactor with an assortment of artifacts, and a Daniel Boone reenactor. There was even a fiddler who had students singing along while he played. It was a day of interactive learning, and making classroom lessons come to life.
We take care of your mind. Individual Counseling Family Counseling • Suicide Prevention Programming • Afterschool Services Changing lives and saving lives since 1860 • www.providentstl.org WWW.PROVIDENTSTL.ORG
DECEMBER 2019 | CROSSROADS | 5
Around Town
A MEETING 75 YEARS IN THE MAKING
Photo provided Bill Harden, VFW Post 5077 Historian Two local World War II POWs met for the first time on Oct. 11 at Park Place Senior Living at Winghaven in O’Fallon. Pictured (from left) David Garvey, Robert Garvey, Glenn Harrison and Alison Harrison.
Two World War II veterans, both shot down over Germany, both St. Charles County residents meet for the first time last month in O’Fallon By Brett Auten
It was a reminder that there are heroes who walk around unknown to us. Glenn Harrison and Robert Garvey, both of whom are World War II veterans with extraordinarily familiar backgrounds, crossed paths for the first time last month. The 99-year-old Harrison and the 97-year old Garvey served in the Army Air Corps and both were shot down over Germany within seven days of each other in June 1944 and held until May 1945. Each moved to the northern St. Louis area and worked for McDonnell Douglas for decades before moving into St. Charles County. They had never met until the VFW Post 5077 arranged a meeting on Oct. 11 at Park Place Senior Living at Winghaven in O’Fallon. “It turned out really nice,” Dave Garvey, Robert Garvey’s son, said. “To hear them exchange experiences during the war, it was really interesting to listen to both of them.” Alongside family members, the pair talked for 90 minutes and talked about the differences and similarities in their camps. Garvey was held in Stalig Luft IV (for enlisted men) 6 | CROSSROADS | DECEMBER 2019
and Harrison in Stalig Luft III (for officers). “I thought it was wonderful that they got to share their stories and experiences,” Alison Harrison, Glenn’s daughter, said. “They both went through just terrible experiences yet somehow still can have a sense of humor about some of it.” Harrison was 23 when he was a pilot on a B-17 plane that flew 17 missions and was shot down twice. The first time, his crew survived by bailing into the English Channel. The second time, the plane was shot down as it flew toward Munich. The crash killed some members of the crew. Harrison survived a 24,000-foot parachute plummet only to stave off German farmers determined to end his life on the spot were it not for the German soldiers who arrived and apprehended him. Earlier this year Harrison received the distinguished Legion of Honor from a French diplomat. The honor, which was started in 1802 by Napoleon Bonaparte, has been given to veterans in America’s “Greatest Generation” for their aid in liberating the coun-
try from Nazi occupation. Past recipients include President Dwight D. Eisenhower, Gen. Douglas MacArthur and St. Louis aviator Charles Lindbergh. Garvey landed and while gathering his chute, bullets pierced him twice. It was along a road, wounded and exasperated, when he felt he could not go on. A priest approached, laid on the side of the road, said a prayer and gave him a crucifix. His wounds were mended and he was sent to the German army. The very cross the German priest gave Garvey still rests by his side in his home in Cottleville. “It meant there were German people who cared about everyone, even the enemy,” Garvey said. “I keep it around and take it with me when I give talks.” On Feb. 6, 1945, Garvey was part of the 8,000 men of the camp set out on a march that would be called the “Black March.” The prisoners were given the remaining Red Cross parcels; they were allowed to carry as much as they could. During the 86-day march, while under guard, the prisoners
Around Town would march about 15–20 miles to escape the encroaching Soviet Red Army from the east. As one would imagine, the treatment was horrible. Prisoners were bayoneted, kicked and hit, and those were the fortunate ones. Food was often steamed potatoes and bedding were two blankets and an overcoat. “It got kind of nasty when I had to march one day in my bare feet after someone stole my shoes while I was sleeping,” Garvey said. “But mostly I remember the back roads and small villages.” Both men have shared their stories throughout the community at several speaking engagements and they each gave stoic reasons on how they were able to endure such uncomprehending horrors. “I did what I was told and I expected it to end and it finally did,” Garvey said. “You just learned to get along and just take it,” Harrison “Some people make it or some don’t. But I always felt we would get liberated.”
Hike*Bike raises over $100, 000 for military veterans
Submitted photo Pictured (from left) are Jean Lorenz, Christine Johnson, Marilyn Hartnett, Nan Walther, Lori Vilbert, Lee Hundelt and Amy Roe.
The Missouri State Society DAR joined with the Fisher House Foundation and the Department of Natural Resources to host Hike*Bike for Military and Veterans. Over $100,000 was raised this past year to support three new Fisher Houses in Missouri. Hike*Bike was the culminating event of the years fund raising efforts for the Missouri Daughters. Members of the Caroline Close Stuart Chapter recently visited the St. Louis Fisher House to see firsthand what the facilities are like and how they meet the needs of the veterans’ families. Fisher Houses are similar to Ronald McDonald Houses except they provide a home for families of hospitalize veterans and military. There is no charge to the families who also receive a meal while staying there. “Supporting our military and veterans is at the core of who the DAR is”, say Chapter Regent Marilyn Hartnett. “We were pleased to see what outstanding work and comfort Fisher House offers their families while the veteran is in the VA facilities. A more deserving organization could not have inspired the efforts of our Missouri Daughters.”
WWW.PROACTIVEPRINTSERVICES.COM DECEMBER 2019 | CROSSROADS | 7
Around Town
Wentzville firefighters partner with the WSD to provide new coats for students Firefighters from the Wentzville Fire Protection District (WFPD) and employees of the Wentzville School District (WSD) distributed hundreds of coats to kids in need at an event held at Fire Station #1 on Oct. 19. WFPD firefighters partnered with Operation Warm and the Wentzville School District for the seventh consecutive year to supply nearly 300 brand new coats to elementary students identified by school district counselors. “We are so grateful for this partnership year after year with our local firefighters to support our students,” said WSD Chief Communications Officer Mary LaPak. “Wentzville firefighters work hard to not only protect and help educate our community, but their generous outreach efforts directly impact our students who need it most and we are extremely grateful for their kindness and sup-
port.” Hats and mittens collected by nurses and staff from the Burn/ Transitional Care Unit, Pediatrics, and the Heart Hospital – all at Mercy Hospital St. Louis were also distributed at the event. Operation Warm and the Coats for Kids Foundation were founded in 1998 on a national level to assist local organizations with providing quality coats to kids in need. “We look forward to this program every year,” said WFPD Firefighter/ Paramedic Michael Szarwinski. “The kids get to come pick up a brand new coat to call their own that will keep them warm over the winter months, and we get to see the smiles on their faces, which make the whole effort
Photo courtesy Wentzville School District
really gratifying.” Over the past seven years, the WFPD has supplied over 4,000 coats for WSD students through Operation Warm.
St. Charles County Public Health recommends vaccination to protect against influenza The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that eight percent of the United States (about 26 million Americans) gets a flu-related illness each year, resulting in nearly 1 million hospitalizations and an estimated 80,000 deaths. These illnesses cost individuals and businesses about $10 billion in medical expenses and $16 billion in lost earnings. While there is no way to predict the severity of activity in our community during flu season — October through mid-spring — there are ways individuals can protect themselves against catching, suffering through, and spreading this highly contagious virus. The St. Charles County Department of Public Health recommends: 1. All individuals six months of age or older receive a flu vaccination within the next four weeks. 2. Washing hands and surfaces regularly with soap and clean water or using sanitizer. 3. Covering mouths when coughing or sneezing. 4. Receiving medical care immediately after noticing flu symptoms and following doctor recommendations. 5. Individuals who are sick stay home until 8 | CROSSROADS | DECEMBER 2019
they have no fever for at least 24 hours. “Vaccination is the most effective first step in building immunity against the flu,” says Department of Public Health Acting Director Sara Evers. “Shots decrease the risk for developing the flu and minimize the spread of it to those who are unable to receive vaccinations. For those who get a flu shot but become infected, symptoms are often reduced and the risk for severe complications or hospitalization is decreased.” The Department of Public Health’s Immunization Clinic offers three types of flu shots this year, including: • Quadrivalent influenza vaccination – This vaccination is designed to protect against the four most prevalent viruses expected this season: H1N1, H3N2, Influenza B/Victoria and Influenza B/Yamagata. It is appropriate for all individuals ages six months or older. Cost is $36. • Quadrivalent Flublok influenza vaccination– This vaccination protects against the four listed above and provides a higher amount of antigen than the traditional quadrivalent shot. It is designed for individuals ages 50-64 who are more likely to develop flu-related complications. Cost is $62.
Photo courtesy St. Charles County
• High-Dose influenza vaccination – Designed for individuals ages 65 or older, this vaccination has four times the amount of antigen than in the traditional quadrivalent shot to boost the body’s ability to create antibodies against the illness. Cost is $62. Services through the Immunization Clinic are provided by appointment from 8:30 to 10:50 a.m. and 1:10 to 3:30 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. In addition, a limited number of walk-in clients are accepted from 8:30 to 10:50 a.m. and 1:10 to 3:30 p.m. on Tuesdays. Cash, check or credit card (includes a service fee), and private insurance is accepted. The clinic may be considered out-of-network by some insurance carriers. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, please call 636-949-1857.
THE
season OF giving By Brett Auten
Local first responders are giving back this holiday season with several charity drives to benefit the community DECEMBER IS A TIME TO THINK OF OTHERS.
And as if our local emergency responders didn’t do that enough the previous 11 months, they are doing even more to make sure as many people as possible end the year on a high note. The Lake St. Louis Police Officer’s Association is once again holding its charity drive. Buoyed by a successful 2018 campaign, the 10th Holiday Charity Drive includes sponsorship of local school children again this Christmas. The Holiday Charity Drive runs until Dec. 22 and the LSLPOA is asking that you please do not send food items or clothing. “We simply do not have a storage facility for it,” Crowley said. “It goes without saying, we live in a very supportive community. The last 10 years have been going good.” CONTINUED PAGE 10
DECEMBER 2019 | CROSSROADS | 9
Anyone who makes a donation will receive a thank you letter with the amount on it for tax purposes. Please be sure to write Holiday Drive on the memo line of your check. If you would like to make a donation to go toward our mission you can send a donation to: Lake St. Louis Police Officer’s Association 8651 Highway N, Suite 229 Lake St. Louis, Mo. 63367 Attn: Butch Crowley For further information you can contact Crowley at 636-2624235 or visit the Lake St. Louis Police Officer’s Association on Facebook for current information.
SCCAD
The St. Charles City-County Ambulance District will literally Fill the Ambulance with Food to benefit Operation Food Search. “This event is now in its 10th year, and seems to grow more and more successful with each passing year,” Kyle Gaines, Director of Community Relations, St. Charles County Ambulance District, said. “We now have 14 facilities partnering with us in this endeavor, including three brand-new ones this year.” Retirement communities throughout the county are the drop
10 | CROSSROADS | DECEMBER 2019
off locations for this event and in honor of its 10th anniversary, an ambitious goal of 10,000-pounds of food has been set. “Because Operation Food Search works with so many pantries throughout the region, they’re able to ensure that all donations stay right here in St. Charles County,” Gaines added. The drop-off locations are as follows: Twin Oaks at Heritage Pointe (228 Savannah Terrace, Wentzville) Twin Oaks at Stone Ridge (280 Santa Elena, Wentzville) The Boulevard Wentzville (110 Perry Cate, Wentzville) Lakeridge Senior Living (2901 Technology, Lake St. Louis) Garden Villas of O’Fallon (2092 South Outer 364, O’Fallon) Park Place Senior Living at Winghaven (2002 Boardwalk Place Drive, O’Fallon) The Landing of O’Fallon (1000 Landing Drive, O’Fallon) Breeze Park (600 Breeze Park Drive, Weldon Spring) Brookdale St. Peters (363 Jungermann, St. Peters) Clarendale of St. Peters (taking donations at sales office in US Bank Building, 1 Mid Rivers Mall Dr., St. Peters) The Boulevard St. Charles (3330 Ehlmann Road, St. Charles) Lake St. Charles (45 Honey Locust, St. Charles) Fairwinds Rivers Edge (600 Rivers Edge Drive, St. Charles) Windsor Estates of St. Charles (2150 West Randolph, St. Charles)
WENTZVILLE PD
The Wentzville Police Department has barrels in its lobby for the Caring and Sharing Organization to help so many people have a great holiday season. The Wentzville PD will be collecting through Dec. 10 in its lobby on any day and at any time. Caring and Sharing is an Emergency food pantry for individuals and families that need food when their local pantries are closed. It also distributes food to rural pantries that do not have the amenities that larger pantries have in the St. Charles area. Caring and Sharing also puts together Blessing Backpacks for the homeless and meals for Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter for the needy.
O’FALLON PD
In November, the O’Fallon Police Department participated in No Shave November where, for a monetary donation, male employees were provided the opportunity to grow facial hair and female employees could dye a portion of their hair. With great participation, the O’Fallon Police Department was able to present a check to BackStoppers in the amount of $4,200 for its annual Guns and Hoses event. Because of the success of No Shave November, Chief Tim Clothier authorized No Shave December. Money raised in the
month of December will be donated to the city of O’Fallon’s Cornucopia of Care Food Drive and The Sharing Shed. Both charitable organizations will receive 50-percent of the money raised by No Shave December. The city of O’Fallon’s Cornucopia of Care Food Drive is an annual program that accepts various canned and boxed food items which will then be given to local food pantries. The event runs until Dec. 13. Donation collection locations include: Kenny Wilson Center, 1058 Rondale Ct. Krekeler Jewelers, 2938 Highway K Lindell Bank, 4521 Highway K O’Fallon Municipal Centre, 100 North Main Street Renaud Center, 2650 Tri Sports Circle The Sharing Shed (thesharingshed.org) is a volunteer-based organization that provides basic household items to families and individuals of St. Charles County and surrounding areas who are experiencing a crisis or need a helping hand. Photos provided by SCCAD Members of the St. Charles City-County Ambulance District participate in the annual Fill the Ambulance with Food drive to benefit Operation Food Search. SCCAD personnel are shown with residents from Fairwinds-Rivers Edge in St. Charles and Lake St. Charles Retirement Community.
DECEMBER 2019 | CROSSROADS | 11
Always An Adventure
BY AVALANCHE
high camp WAY UP IN
Photo by Avalanche
THE FIRST NIGHT OF MY WEEK-LONG HIKING TRIP made me appreciate bringing a few extra pounds of insulation, as temperatures dropped to 15 degrees. That chill in the air resulted in even more campers and hikers leaving the mountains earlier than they had planned, which made solitude much easier to find. The hikers remaining in the range were a bit more hard-core than the fair-weather crowd, and I found myself more at ease with these fewer, more determined mountain travelers. After breaking the first night’s camp and making my way further into the range, I noted a few runners making their way in and out of the mountains. While I admired (and was a bit jealous of) their ability to cover 40 or more miles of rugged terrain in a day, I couldn’t help but question the wisdom of their methods. I couldn’t be too judgmental, as I was hiking and climbing alone, for over a week. Everyone has to choose their own way. I hiked for just a few miles to my next camp, though the trip involved numerous up-and-down sections of trail, making the short mileage seem much longer than it really was. I headed to a side basin off the beaten path, knowing that few people venture into this area, with no fish present in the lakes, and a mostly dead-end trail, unless the traveler was prepared for glacier travel. I didn’t have to work to find a private campsite; I had the basin to myself. This night was not quite as cold, and I was easily transitioning into the long-forgotten, but quickly-remembered simple, yet demanding routine of backcountry living: up early in the morning, immediately brewing up hot drinks and cooking a simple breakfast while breaking down camp, then eating, cleaning up, and moving before the sun came up over the mountains surrounding the basin. The day’s trip was along the main trail up to my high camp, which was to be my base of operations for the next few days. I saw a number of people during the first mile along the main trail; they were all 12 | CROSSROADS | DECEMBER DECEMBER2019 2019
day-hikers, who had camped a short distance down the valley and were visiting the harsh, high-altitude landscape for just a few hours. I continued lugging my pack higher and higher, with fewer human sightings as the terrain became more rugged. Closer to my destination, the scenery was stunning in all directions. Two large lakes in the bottom of the basin were surrounded by sheer mountain walls on three sides, with glaciers adorning the higher peaks. Much of the rock on the valley floor was polished smooth by glaciers which had melted only recently in geological time. In fact, the remaining glaciers had receded noticeably since I had last been here about 15 years ago. Despite the changes, the raw, harsh beauty crafted by massive forces was still as awe-inspiring as ever. I picked my way through the boulder-strewn area and found a small level spot that had running water nearby, and was (very) slightly sheltered from the ever-present wind. I pitched my tarp, fetched some water and holed up inside, out of the bright sun and strong wind. Despite nighttime temperatures in the teens, an assortment of mosquitos had managed to survive the early winter conditions and found the shelter inside of my tarp as appealing as I did. They did their best to get a few meals out of me before being unceremoniously smashed flat. Now that I was at the high camp, I began to focus on my objective – an alpine ice climb on the other side of the mountain right in front of me. Staci and I had done this climb together a number of years ago, and ended up rappelling down the ice at night in a blizzard with lightning flashing around us. It had been a bit more exciting than we had planned. This time, I would have no company and no belayer; safety would come in the form of an early start and moving relatively quickly, while focusing intently on the task at hand. This pending challenge occupied my thoughts as the sun faded into darkness and the sounds of the wind and running water lulled me to sleep.
Moore On Life
Christmas pains W
hat is it nowadays with Christmas newsletters? They all seem to be filled with the same subject matter – the latest ailments of aging relatives. Ahh, think back on the carefree days of youth when the dialog focused on such topics as how best to eat pizza without getting black olives lodged in your braces or discussing the most awesome thing you ever superglued to your fingers. From there on, the conversation gradually evolved into old people subject matter. I recall it started with the price of gas. My mom would constantly complain about it. “Sweet mother, the price has gone from 25 cents a gallon to 27! It’s a conspiracy! Everyone knows there’s a car out there that runs on water and the inventor has been imprisoned by the government.” Silly Mom, I never paid much attention to her. I had my own issues experimenting with White Out to see if it could work as a possible zit concealer. But when I approached adulthood and got my own car everything changed. “What?! I just filled this gas-eater up and used half my paycheck from working at Macho Tacos and now it’s empty?”
BY CINDY MOORE
That’s when grownup things started to matter. From there it advanced into grandma-speak complete with politics sprinkled in. Me: “These gas prices are out of control and those politicians in D.C. are in on it. Why, do you know they’re imprisoning the inventor of the water-run engine in the basement of the White House?” Now it’s come to full-blown grandma-speak: chatting about aches and pains over lunch. My friend Bernice: “I’ll have a salad, even though anything green gives me gas, tomatoes make my gums bleed and onions make me burp.” Waitress: “What kind of dressing, ma’am?” “Just pour some Pepto-Bismal over it and serve it with a side of Ibuprofen. Be glad you’re still in good health,” she said to me. Me: “Oh no, I can basically sustain an injury just by sitting too long. My scapula is acting up; my meniscus is blown; my coccyx has been traumatized and I can bend down to pick something up only if I intend to stay in that position for the remainder of my life.” But don’t pity me. All is not lost because I now have plenty of subject matter for my Christmas newsletter.
DECEMBER 2019 | CROSSROADS | 13
Automobile Alley
2 0 1 9
FORD EDGE
comes loaded with standard features
W
ith thoughts directed towards the refreshed look of the 2019 Ford Edge SUV, it’s worth sharing that it’s now included with a list of new features as standard equipment. For instance, their drive assist technologies are included, which raises the bar when it comes to overall safety. In-part; dual-stage airbags, side-curtain airbags, an innovative passenger side knee airbag, rainsensing wipers, rear view camera plus roll stability control is now standard. Also introduced new to the line-up is the Edge ST model. It’s the first ever utility from Ford’s Performance division. The ST version comes with a 2.7-liter V-6 turbo engine that produces 335 commanding horsepower. The EPA numbers reflect 19-mpg city/26-mpg highway. Their standard engine in their other models of Edge is their 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder. It produces a five horsepower increase and improved fuel economy over the ‘18 rendition. Its horsepower rating is showing 250, while the EPA numbers mirror 22-mpg city/29-mpg highway.
The vehicle is also spotlighted with a new computer-governed, smooth-operating eight-speed automatic transmission. Also included across the mix is their fuel savings Auto Start/Stop technology as standard. This SUV is also showcased for the ‘19 model year in their SE entry level version, as well as their SEL and Titanium trim levels. All build combinations now have a sportier new front and rear fascia, upgraded front grille housing and hood assembly as well as a new rear liftgate. Edge is the first utility with their standard Co-Pilot360 enhancement which also includes pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking, blind spot driver information system with crosstraffic alert plus their lane-keeping assist system. Edge’s exterior enhancements include available bi-LED front lighting and new fog lamps, which are available on SEL models and above. Five newly styled wheels are available, including an 18-inch brightmachined aluminum wheel with premium dark stainless-painted pockets. 14 | CROSSROADS | DECEMBER 2019
Additionally, the rearview camera now includes a unique lens cleaning washer component. Furthermore, a front safety air curtain is standard across the product mix. Also new on the Titanium Elite is their optional appearance package. It features 20-inch bright machined aluminum wheels with premium dark stainless-painted pockets, bodycolor front bumper housing and lower fascia with chrome inserts. The SE fleet Driver’s Package includes 10-way power driver’s seat and an enhanced reverse sensing system. Optional on Edge is their all-wheel drive system. It’s engineered to detect various driving conditions and will automatically shift between two-wheel, and all-wheel drive. It uses a form of artificial intelligence that can calculate quicker than the human brain. Based on information received from dozens of high-tech sensors, the driveline can determine in a fraction of a second (10 milliseconds) whether all-wheel drive is needed. With comfortable seating for five, and a well thought out interior with a modern design, the base model has a retail price of $29,995, and their high end ST performance version retails for $42,355. Destination charges come out to be an additional $995. Built in Ontario, Canada, the imported Edge includes a bumper-to-bumper warranty for three-years/36,000 miles. Engine and powertrain components are covered for five-years/60,000 miles. In the mid-size SUV category, you’ll also discover the Chevy Blazer, Honda Passport, Nissan Murano, Toyota 4Runner and the Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Entertainment
Can the DC Extended Universe take on Marvel in 2020?
BY STEVE BRYAN
H
eading into the final weeks of 2019, “Best of…” articles become rather plentiful. Most film fans realize, however, that this has been – and will continue to be – the year of Disney. Looking at the current box office totals, Disney’s various holdings occupy the top 6 spots for the year. “Avengers: Endgame” was a brilliant, heart-wrenching end to a storyline that began back in 2008. Live-action remakes of “The Lion King” and “Aladdin” exceeded expectations while “Captain Marvel” introduced moviegoers to a powerful heroine. With “Frozen 2” and the latest “Star Wars” film already on deck, the Walt Disney Corporation has 2019 locked up, but 2020 is still up for grabs and the crown may change ownership. The DC Extended Universe (DCEU) released films such as “Man of Steel” and “Suicide Squad” that were not well-received critically, but still did well at the box office. 2017’s “Wonder Woman” changed all that, with Gal Gadot bringing the iconic Amazonian warrior to life on the big screen. Gadot’s solo outing outperformed its DCEU predecessors and inspired a lot of moviegoers in the process. The MCU’s strength has been its superhero teamwork, with 2012’s “Avengers” setting the heroic bar high. In contrast, the DCEU’s power lies in the strength of its individual characters. Released more than a year after “Wonder Woman,” “Aquaman” was a huge box office hit. Though the character has been parodied on both “The Big Bang Theory” and “Family Guy,” Jason Momoa and director James Wan made Aquaman
an incredible hero and a likeable person. Joaquin Phoenix’s portrayal of the Joker in the recent solo film captivated audiences like no other. As reported by Indie Wire, the film, made for a reported $62.5 million, has become the most profitable comic book movie ever. In 1989, Jack Nicholson played the Joker in Tim Burton’s “Batman” and 20 years later, the late Heath Ledger embodied the character’s madness in “The Dark Knight,” but Phoenix’s performance as the villain exceeded expectations. “Joker” also opened the door for more dominant DCEU features. In 2020, “Birds of Prey” arrives in theaters as Margot Robbie reprises her role as Harley Quinn, the love interest of the Joker. She teams up with the Huntress, police detective Renee Montoya and Cassandra Cain, who has taken on the mantle of Batgirl. Solo outings have been the moneymakers for DC, but with four solid characters like these, this one should do quite well at the box office. Gal Gadot also returns next year for “Wonder Woman 1984.” BY STEVE BRYAN Born Prince and raised in South Set during the Cold War of the 1980’s, Diana takes on St. Louis, Steve The Bryansequel is now based the Soviet Union and a new foe called the Cheetah. in Anaheim, California, and has has a built-in fanbase, which went crazy when pictures of Chris been allowed access to Pine in character as Steve Trevor appeared online. Trevor, who movie and television sets to see actors shared some romantic moments with Diana, presumably died and directors at work. Though his decades earlier but looks alive and well in the stills. writing has taken him far from St. 2019 was all about Marvel and Disney,Louis, but Steve 2020 is,definitely at heart, still the could see the rise of DCsame Extended Universe. wide-eyed kid who spent countless hours watching classic movies at neighborhood theaters.
DECEMBER 2019 | CROSSROADS | 15
For the Love of Food
POP UP HOLIDAY TRADITIONS d old new an
From decorating the tree to carving the turkey, there are many time-honored holiday traditions observed by families around the country. However, the holiday season is about more than just celebrating old traditions. A perfect opportunity for creating new memories and, in turn, traditions, popcorn can serve as an ideal ingredient to bring family time to life. Whether wrapping the tree with garland made from the light and airy treat, filling clear ornaments with freshly popped kernels or simply popping up a bowl as a nutritious alternative to other holiday noshes, popcorn makes it easy to get hands-on while you deck the halls. These seasonal recipes for traditional treats like peppermint bark and popcorn balls plus edible trees and a more elegant take on a simple snack highlight low-fat, non-GMO, gluten-free whole-grain popcorn as the main ingredient. Find more modern takes on traditional holiday recipes at popcorn.org.
16 | CROSSROADS | DECEMBER 2019
For the Love of Food
WHITE CHOCOLATE PEPPERMINT POPCORN BARK Yield: 1 pound
CRANBERRY POPCORN BALLS Yield: 18 balls Ingredients: 2 cups sugar
Ingredients:
1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce, slightly mashed
5 cups popped popcorn 12 ounces white chocolate baking chips
1 tablespoon grated orange peel 1/2 cup cranberry juice
1 cup crushed hard candy peppermints
1/2 cup light corn syrup
Directions: Cover baking pan with foil or wax paper; set aside.
1 teaspoon vinegar 1/2 teaspoon salt 5 quarts unsalted, popped popcorn
Place popcorn in large bowl; set aside.
butter
In double boiler over barely simmering water, melt chocolate, stirring until smooth.
Directions: In heavy saucepan, combine sugar, cranberry sauce, grated orange peel, cranberry juice, corn syrup, vinegar and salt.
Stir in crushed peppermints. Pour chocolate mixture over popcorn and stir to coat. Spread onto prepared pan; cool completely. When chocolate is cooled and set, break into chunks.
Bring to boil; lower heat and cook until temperature reaches 250 F on candy thermometer. Slowly pour cranberry mixture onto hot popcorn; mix until well-coated. Let stand 5 minutes, or until mixture can easily be formed into balls. Butter hands and form into 3-inch balls.
EASY, ELEGANT HOLIDAY POPCORN Yield: 8 cups Ingredients: 8 cups popped popcorn 1/2 cup milk chocolate chips 1/2 cup white chocolate chips candy sprinkles Directions: Line baking sheet with wax paper. Spread popcorn in thin layer on prepared pan. Place chocolate chips in microwavesafe bowl. Microwave on medium 30 seconds; stir. If necessary, microwave in additional 10-second increments, stirring after each heating, until chips are melted and smooth. Drizzle over
popcorn. Place white chocolate chips in separate microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on medium 30 seconds; stir. If necessary, microwave in additional 10-second increments, stirring after each heating, until chips are melted and smooth. Drizzle over popcorn. Sprinkle desired amount of candy sprinkles over warm chocolatecoated popcorn. Allow chocolate drizzles to set until firm. Break popcorn into pieces. Note: Chocolate chips can be replaced with cut up chocolate bars. DECEMBER 2019 | CROSSROADS | 17
Advertiser Profile
By Russ Patton, owner of Byerly RV RV owners, don’t forget to winterize. Dreamers, new adventures await. Winer is a great time to do research. However, eventually a purchase is still a person-to-person transaction. Products and purveyors are different. Reputation, experience and community relations are important to consider. Byerly RV celebrates over 70 years in business in 2020. We have seen several generations begin and finish their RV adventures at Byerly. As for me, I’m almost out of here myself. My son, Warren, and his exceptional “family” of 65 employees will carry on the tradition, just about the time I learn how to spell millennial. I see a similarity in the cycle and try to explain to Warren the familiar low price/high cost trap that awaits many first-time buyers. Most people won’t buy the cheapest car, TV, clothes or other gadgets, but may still shop price for an RV because they don’t know what else to compare. The popularity of RVs has attracted sharks into bass country. Price is the bait, but after you are hooked and add up the total, sometimes hidden, costs the lesson is learned the hard way. The only remedy is to slow down and shop carefully. Use the internet; Google ratings, YouTube or Facebook postings. Best advice – visit a few dealers. Most of the local, family-owned RV dealers prosper because they want your repeat business. Signs
Wor th the Drive
Submitted photo
RV owners and dreamers: some 20/20 insights
you are entering a shark tank: they want your drivers license and ask you to fill out a credit app so they can determine which vehicles you “qualify” to look at. Access to vehicles is restricted and you feel handcuffed to a sales rep whose primary goal is to turn you over to the closer. When you leave, you may not get a complete disclosure of all you will be expected to pay at closing. They don’t want you to shop and may even push you to take immediate delivery, either physically or on paper. No time to think! The price seems good, but you may find a lot of add-ons which, if needed or wanted, could usually be bought for less at another dealer. The difference between the perceived great price and the bottomline cost can be huge. The real eye-opener is when you want to trade in the entry level model and find out what the bank says it’s really worth. St. Louis is fortunate to have many local, reputable, family owned dealers. Shop locally at members of the MidWest Gateway RVDA and, of course Byerly RV, the state’s largest independent RV Dealer. www.byerlyrv.com. Facebook. And, of course, visit us in Eureka, Missouri, just 15 minutes west of I-270 on Interstate I-44.
Byerly RV | 295 East Fifth St. | Eureka, MO 63025 800-878-3325 | 636-938-2000 | www.byerlyrv.com
18 | CROSSROADS | DECEMBER 2019
Community Calendar
December 2 – Cyber Monday
7 – Christmas benefit
Visit the Annual Hometown Christmas Benefit at Titlemax at 1330 Highway K in O’Fallon from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Donate an unwrapped toy or purchase a ‘Build a Christmas Bear’ to benefit Toys for Tots. You can also ride with Santa, enjoy a Frosty the Snowman puppet show and visit with Buddy the Elf, The Grinch and other friends. For more information call 636-240-9733.
7 – Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day 8 – Holiday home tour
The Wentzville Community Historical Society will be holding their first ever Holiday Home Tour. The tour begins at the Green Lantern Senior Center. From there you will be able to go in and see the inside of five homes all decorated for Christmas on South Linn Ave. The tour will end at Friendship Brewing Company, where you will be given a free glass and drink, be able to participate in fun activities and be eligible for a gift basket. The homes will be open from 3 to 6 p.m. The group will be at Friendship Brewing until 7 p.m. Tickets are $20. Tickets are available at Elbee’s General Store and Ehll’s Western Auto. In addition, they will be available at the Green Lantern the day of the tour.
13 – National Guard Birthday 15 – Bill of Rights Day 17 – Wright Brothers Day 21 – First Day of Winter 23 – First Day of Hanukkah 25 – Christmas 31 – New Year’s Eve
DECEMBER 2019 | CROSSROADS | 19
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