CrossRoads: July 2020

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JULY 5

2020

contents

Around Town Local news and events

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Feature Story Bringing history to life Storyteller brings lesser-known aspects of African-American culture to audiences with vibrant performances

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Always an Adventure Just breathe

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Moore on Life The awakening

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Automobile Alley 2020 Volkswagen Jetta gives a fresh look to a popular sedan

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Entertainment Theaters reopening: cleaning protocols and social distancing

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For the Love of Food Breaking bread: Comfort food consumption is on the rise

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Community Calendar: July

On the Cover: Submitted photo

JULY 2020 | CROSSROADS | 3

JULY

2020 writers

VOL 16 | NO 7

BY AVALANCHE

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

Avalanche is a functional illiterate who left the St. Louis area three decades ago in search of adventure. He enjoys motorcycling and all things outdoors.

He lives with his wife and dogs.

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

ALWAYS AN ADVENTURE – PG. 12

BY CINDY MOORE

MOORE ON LIFE – PG. 13

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

Cindy Moore is the mother of three superlative kids, servant of two self-indulgent felines and wife to one nifty husband. Her ficticious occupation? Archeological Humorist: someone who unearths absurdity and hilarity in strange and unusual places including public restrooms, the lint filter, and church meetings. Most recently, she excavated a find in her neighbor’s bird feeder.

BY DAVID FINKELSTEIN

For advertising information, please contact us at:

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

www.mycnews.com

Copyright 2019 Huneke Publications, Inc. No part of the publication may be reproduced in any form without the expressed written consent of the publisher.

Crossroads is a trademark of Huneke Publications, Inc. Any published use of Crossroads implying affiliation is strictly prohibited.

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

AUTOMOBILE ALLEY – PG. 14

BY STEVE BRYAN

ENTERTAINMENT – PG. 15

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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

O’Fallon announces Heritage and Freedom Fest 2.0 to take place on Sept. 6 O’Fallon’s annual Independence Day celebration was cancelled this year due to COVID-19, but Mayor Bill Hennessy announced during the June 11 city council meeting that the city of O’Fallon will host Heritage and Freedom Fest 2.0 on Sept. 6.

The one-day event on Labor Day weekend will take place at the Ozzie Smith Sports Complex at 900 T.R. Hughes Boulevard in O’Fallon, starting at 11 a.m. with free concerts and family-friendly activities throughout the day. The event will conclude with a fireworks display at 10:30 p.m. Headlining the concert stage are rock legends Styx and country star Dylan Scott. In addition, the celebration features local rocker Steve Ewing, rock bands Dazed and Confused and

That 80’s Band, and country music from Whiskey Morning and Wildfire.

“We are very excited to offer this free event to our residents and neighbors,” said Hennessy. “We’ve all had a difficult and stressful year, and we are looking forward to providing a day of fun for this amazing community on Labor Day Weekend.”

Entertainment does not stop with the concerts. Food and drink vendors will be on site and free activities for the entire family will be available, including the Corvette Club display, a gaming truck, Monster Mural, oversized yard games, a petting zoo and Circus Kaput. Extreme inflatables

also are available for a fee ($10 in advance, $15 at the event).

COVID-19 related guidelines for the event will be confirmed closer to the date. For the most up-to-date details, visit www.heritageandfreedomfest.com.

The Family Arena reopening for graduation ceremonies The Family Arena in St. Charles will reopen for public events after closing for COVID-19, beginning with facility rentals for graduation ceremonies. The first ceremony scheduled is on July 10.

“Our top priority is to make certain our guests are safe, and that includes heavily sanitizing the facility and making changes that allow for social distancing,” says Tom O’Keefe, Manager of Booking and Marketing at The Family Arena. “While school districts may have their own set of restrictions for their ceremonies, after consultation with the districts, The Family Arena has procedures that will be followed for all ceremonies.”

O’Keefe stresses that the following procedures are in effect now but subject to change in the future.

Entering and screening: • Health Screening Stations will be placed outside of each point of entry. The Family Arena will perform a temperature check on each graduate and guest. Those passing the screening will be identified by a sticker that will allow them access to the building. The sticker must be worn while in the building.

• Guests and graduates can enter through Gates 1, 2, 3, or 4. Graduates will proceed

directly to the floor of the arena; there will be no graduate procession.

• To eliminate the need to touch personal items during the screening procedure, bags, purses and backpacks will not be allowed inside the building.

• Cameras and video recorders will be allowed in the building but can be the only things in a camera bag. Tripods are not allowed.

• The arena concourse will flow in one direction; signs will be posted.

Cleaning and precautions: • A professional cleaning service will thoroughly clean and sanitize all areas of the building after each event, including glass, carpets, doors and door handles, etc. The crew will be at each event to continuously sanitize the bathrooms and concourse area.

• Additional hand sanitizing stations will be immediately available upon passing through the metal detectors; however, those attending are encouraged to bring their own as well.

• Guests are strongly encouraged to wear a face mask.

Seating: • Arena seating will utilize approximately 50

percent of its 9,600-seat capacity.

• No backdrop will be utilized. Seating will be in the round in order to maximize capacity while maintaining social distancing.

• Graduates will be seated six feet apart.

• Guests are prohibited from sitting in sections marked closed for social distancing.

• In the event that programs are not provided to the graduates prior to the day of the ceremony, they will be placed on guests’ seats.

• The audience will be released section-bysection to encourage social distancing as graduates and guests exit.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: • Concessions will offer a limited selection to expedite transactions. Cash or credit cards are accepted.

• Each ceremony will be livestreamed for the benefit of those who cannot attend on The Family Arena’s YouTube channel and at familyarena.com/graduations.

• Suites are available for purchase for graduation ceremonies by calling The Family Arena at 636-896-4200.

For more information, please contact the school district offices or O’Keefe at 636-8964289 or tokeefe@familyarena.com.

JULY 2020 | CROSSROADS | 5

Around Town

RISING TO THE CHALLENGE

Submitted photos Photos on left: Much like many of their metropolitan colleagues, officers from the St. Charles County Police Department are asked to address a wide array of situations while on patrol in the community. Photo on right: St. Charles County Police Chief Kurt Frisz talks with a resident at the March for Equality on June 11 in Lake Saint Louis and Dardenne Prairie.

The St. Charles County Police Department has made reforms following recommendations of the Ferguson Commission Report

By Brett Auten

No occupation is under the microscope these days as that of a police officer.

With civil unrest occurring in major cities in response to police brutality in the wake of the death of George Floyd, a black man who died while in police custody, the actions – both fiscal and physical – of the nation’s police departments are under scrutiny.

The St. Charles County Police Department has been working to address many of these issues long before policing practices fell into the national spotlight.

St. Charles County has six cities, all large enough to support individual police departments. Smaller cities other than Foristell contract with the St. Charles County Police for service. The crime rate in the six cities and the area patrolled by the county police ranges from 12-to-28 per thousand.

St. Charles County Executive Steve Ehlmann recently released the county’s latest response to the Ferguson Commission Report. The 6 | CROSSROADS | JULY 2020

Ferguson Commission is an independent group appointed by then-Missouri Governor Jay Nixon in 2014 to conduct a “thorough, wide-ranging and unflinching study of the social and economic conditions that impede progress, equality, and safety in the St. Louis region.” The need to address these conditions came after the unrest in the wake of the death of Michael Brown, Jr. in Ferguson on Aug. 9, 2014.

The St. Charles County Police Department Use of Force Policy has been updated six times since it was first implemented on Jan. 1, 2015. The policies conform to “Eight That Can’t Wait,” a police reform movement that tracks eight policies that data supports to decrease violent encounters. These eight policies are policies that police departments themselves endorse, including: • Banning shooting at moving vehicles.

• Banning chokeholds.

• Requiring warnings before shooting.

• All means are exhausted before the officer uses his/her firearm.

• Police officers and civilians in the department have a duty to intervene if a fellow officer is using excessive force.

• The department has comprehensive useof-force reporting system.

In the latest response to the Ferguson Commission Report, it is reported that the St. Charles County Police Department trains its officers beyond the requirements of the Missouri Peace Officers Standards and Training Commission requirements.

“Training is everything,” Ehlmann said. “It is a big part of it. You can’t just do standard.

But (training) can be very costly because you have to pay for someone to be out on the street.”

Some training opportunities provide a foundational basis for other training. St. Charles CONTINUED PAGE 7

Around Town County Police officers have received Racial Bias Training from Dr. Bryant T. Marks, an African-American professor at Morehouse University in Atlanta. That core training has been augmented by annual Racial Profiling Training. Along with the simulated firearms training program, in 2020 it was deemed that all patrol officers are to be randomly brought in and conduct scenario-based simulator training to sharpen their skills. The scenarios presented to officers test their abilities in shoot/don’t shoot situations and opportunities to deescalate a scenario into a non-lethal encounter.

Situations involving force can also arise suddenly from encounters with people who have a mental illness or are impaired mentally. County police officers have been trained in crisis intervention techniques to help prepare them for contacts with mentally ill subjects.

New officers complete an initial week-long course in crisis intervention during their first year on the job. Officers receive semi-annual refresher training to maintain their skills in dealing with mentally ill subjects.

“There are a number of people in jail who are not criminals,” Ehlmann said. “They have mental health problems and are off their medication and end up in jail.”

It is situations like these that have left many to wonder if we are asking too much of our police officers.

“We are asking a lot of a lot of people,” Ehl-

mann said. “It demands a lot and these young men and women understand it’s not the same department that their dad or grandpa was in.”

In response that each major police force should create a task force of diverse and experienced investigators to investigate all cases of police use of force resulting in death, officer-involved shootings resulting in injury or death, or in-custody deaths, the St. Charles County Police Department substantially revised its policy in 2016, for the investigation of officer-involved shootings and serious uses of force. It has continued to revise its policy with the most recent revision being adopted on June 25, 2019. The policy sets forth a comprehensive, step-by-step procedure that ensures that all officer-involved shootings and serious uses of force are dealt with consistently.

“One of the real questions you are hearing about nationwide is how to get rid of a bad cop,” Ehlmann said. “We can if we have to. For some others, it is more difficult.”

In closing, the report also shed some information on diversity. Long labeled the landing place for “white flight,” St. Charles County has morphed into a more diverse region.

The Ferguson Commission Report asked to create a system to rate diversity at institutions, organizations, and companies throughout the region to make them accountable to the public and help them set

goals to improve.

U.S. News and World Report recently rated ethnic diversity on university campuses. The publication’s formula produces a diversity index that ranges from 0 to 1. The closer a school’s number is to 1, the more diverse the student population. Lindenwood University’s ranking is .41, not as high as Washington University (.54), UMSL (.47), or Saint Louis University (.43), but higher than Webster University (.38) and Maryville University(.29).

As for the largest employers in St. Charles County, MasterCard has ranked in Top 10 for diversity for the last two years. General Motors Employee Resource Group Council was one of 25 companies to receive a national award for its Diversity Council that leads the company’s diversity and inclusion process.

Boeing, which probably employs the most St. Charles County residents, was also one of 25 companies to receive the award. The percentage of non-Caucasians in the St. Charles County Government workforce is larger than the percentage in the county workforce as a whole.

In St. Charles County the six large cities have neighborhoods for families in every price range. As a result, our five school districts have students from every economic class and of every race. The percentage of AfricanAmerican students in the five districts varies from 5.8 to 13.9 percent, comparable to the west and south St. Louis County districts.

WWII veteran celebrates 102nd birthday Eugene “Gene” Clower was born June 12, 1918 and The St. Charles County Veterans Museum hosted a 102nd birthday party at the request of his family on June 12.

Clower served in the Navy during World War II. He attended Shurtleff College in Alton, Illinois. Upon entering the Navy, Clower attended basic training at Great Lakes Naval Training Center. After basic, Clower attended officer training at Notre Dame University. He graduated as an Ensign. Clower served in the Pacific theater during World War II. He was promoted to Lieutenant Junior Grade and served on LST-822 as the navigator. Clower recalls departing the states from San Francisco bound for Hawaii. He was seasick for a few days but got his sea legs and became ac-

customed to the rolling ocean.

USS Harris County LST-822 was laid down by the Missouri Valley Bridge & Iron Company of Evansville, Indiana on Sept. 20, 1944. An LST is officially called a “Landing Ship Tank” although Clower says they called it, “large slow target.” An LST typically have about 100 crew and 13 officers. While at battle stations, only the captain, executive officer and navigator were on the “con” or conning tower.

Soon, Clower would find himself at battle stations, often.

After a month of training in Hawaiian waters, Clower sailed on March 15 with Army troops and equipment aboard. The ship arrived at Eniwetok on March 27, then Ulithi on April 7 to prepare for participation in the

Battle of Okinawa. Clower was the ship’s navigator.

The first action for LST-822 and Clower was landing troops and equipment at Okinawa.

The initial invasion of Okinawa began on April 1, 1945. Clower’s ship, approached the shore of Okinawa on April 18, 1945. During bitter fighting ashore and frequent Japanese air attacks, LST-822 operated between Okinawa and islands to the west. On April 22 she discharged men and equipment at Ie Shima while protected by smoke cover.

During her three weeks at Okinawa, Clower and his ship survived 18 enemy air raids and carried vitally needed supplies for ground CONTINUED PAGE 8 JULY 2020 | CROSSROADS | 7

Around Town ‘102nd birthday’ from page 8 forces. The invasion of Okinawa was the largest amphibious assault in the Pacific Theater during World War II. The 82-day battle lasted from April 1 until June 22, 1945.

Clower and LST-822 departed Okinawa on May 11.

Clower would later make stops on Saipan, Leyte and Luzon ferrying troops and equipment.

Following the surrender of Japan, she returned to the Philippines to transport occupation troops and equipment to Japan. Clower and LST-822 anchored off Japan but he was not part of the occupation forces. He did go into a nearby town sightseeing for a few hours.

Departing Sasebo on March 3, 1946, LST-822 sailed for the United States where she arrived in San Diego on March 30. After operating along the West Coast from California to Washington, she entered drydock at Portland, Oregon on May 28, 1946. LST-822, Clowe’s only ship, was decommissioned on July 27 and entered the Pacific Reserve Fleet on August 10, 1945.

Wentzville School District teacher wins 2020 Emerson Excellence in Teaching Gold Star Grant Kaci Lueking, a first grade teacher at Wabash Elementary in the Wentzville School District, has been named the recipient of the 2020 Emerson Excellence in Teaching Gold Star Grant in the amount of $7,500 for her stEMPOWER initiative, an after-school club that will encourage girls in grades 4-6 to explore STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics) subjects while developing leadership skills and confidence as critical thinkers and problem solvers.

Lueking is a 2019 recipient of the Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award, which qualified her to apply for a competitive Gold Star Grant. Emerson started the Excellence in Teaching Gold Star Grant Program in 2006 to expand its support of the St. Louis educational community.

“Mrs. Lueking is a dedicated and motivated educator who spends a tremendous amount of time and effort preparing and planning rigorous, relevant and fun lessons for her students,” said Superintendent Dr. Curtis Cain. “Mrs. Lueking is widely known across the district for being positive and focused on growth for all students and her influence through the STEAM club for girls will undoubtedly be impactful and far reaching.” Lueking has taught in the Wentzville School District since 2015 and was named District Teacher of the Year for 2018-2019.

O.A.S.I.S. Food Pantry marks 30 years of service to St. Charles County O.A.S.I.S. Food Pantry is proudly celebrating their 30th reunion this year. The O.A.S.I.S. Food Pantry, a food assistance program, was created in 1990 by a group of caring Christian individuals responding to one of the most basic needs for survival – food.

O.A.S.I.S would not be where they are today without the help from their volunteers, as 12 different churches in the area volunteer with O.A.S.I.S. to ensure nobody goes without food. O.A.S.I.S. is open 17 times a month to ensure their diverse cliental can find a time to visit.

“We have been very blessed,” said O.A.SI.S. Executive Director Mike Wraspir. “The St. Charles community is a very giving community, whether it be churches or food drives.”

“O.A.S.I.S. is a symbol of hope and help in St Charles County for 30 years,” said Community Council Executive Director Todd Barnes. “Their compassion to help everyone who asks sets the standard for servant outreach to those in need. They are one of the largest pantries to run entirely on volunteer help in delivering hope to those who ask. I have been impressed with their willingness to be leading discussions on how not only OASIS can serve, but how we as a community can come together helping those in 8 | CROSSROADS | JULY 2020

need.”

O.A.S.I.S. also works with St. Louis area food banks. The food banks have a marketplace where items can be ordered at a discounted price. St. Louis area food banks have also teamed up with O.A.S.I.S for the USDA Temp Program, an emergency food assistance program. Once a month, the USDA provides food to distribute to families who qualify for the program. This food supplements meals for about seven to 10 days.

At O.A.S.I.S., families will know exactly what food they are receiving and how much they will receive. The family will also receive standard toiletry items, which include toilet paper, shampoo, toothpaste, bar soap, and deodorant. Families will also receive a container of liquid laundry detergent every other month. Bread is also available for families to take whatever they need. The food provided by O.A.S.I.S. consists of about 80 percent dry goods. The other portion comes from frozen meat, produce, and dairy items.

O.A.S.I.S. does not turn down any family who lives in the county.

“We have been blessed by O.A.S.I.S food pantry in many ways,” said Calvary Church Community Ministry Pastor Matt Miller.

By Leslie Huenke

“First through all the hurting families we have written referrals for so they can access the pantry. They contributed a tremendous amount of food to Neighbor Helping Neighbor Service Coalition’s effort to feed families during the pandemic. They are always willing to fill needs that arise in the community.”

O.A.S.I.S. served 5,220 families in 2019. This consisted of over 16,000 people. Although the overall number of families has declined since 2014 due to the growing economy, O.A.S.I.S understands the need is still there and they will continue to provide for the community.

“Our mission is very important,” said Wraspir. “We take it very seriously. We accumulate about 10,000 volunteer hours a year to manage the pantry and thrift store.

It takes a lot of people. We have our church members and volunteers who support us through financial contributions. The fact that we’ve been able to exist and grow in the last 30 years is a testimony to the organization and mission.”

O.A.S.I.S. Food Pantry is located at 1814 Boone’s Lick Road in St. Charles. For more information on O.A.S.I.S Food Pantry and how you can help, please contact Mike Wraspir at 636-723-0037.

his to ry TO LIFE

BRINGING Storyteller brings lesser-known aspects of African-American culture to audiences with vibrant performances

I

By Brett Auten

ntending to bring to light the lesserknown aspects of African-American culture, Angel da Silva has shocked, informed and entertained crowds for over 20 years.

The St. Charles County Parks presents the opportunity to step back in time with a remarkable narrative, “The True, Incredible, Story of Clara Brown,� with the renowned storyteller.

The performance on July 12 is already sold out. On Aug. 9, limited tickets are available for story times at 1:15 p.m. and 3:15 p.m. inside the Old Peace Chapel at The Historic Daniel Boone Home in Defiance.

Through the voice, vision and insight of da Silva, the harrowing and inspiring CONTINUED PAGE 10

JULY 2020 | CROSSROADS | 9

“We can’t whitewash it.”

“We can’t say it never happened here.”

“I am not going to deny my ancestors.”

Submitted photos O’Fallon native Angel da Silva has performed for thousands of people over the years, shedding light on unknown aspects and characters of African-American culture. Among her characters are Clara Brown, Mary Fields and Lila the Missouri Slave.

10 | CROSSROADS | JULY 2020

story about a slave’s journey to reunite with her lost family is grossly captivating. Freed by her master at age 54, Brown embarked on a 30-year journey in search of her husband and children who were sold to different slave owners. Participants learn about her quest west to St. Louis and then to the Rocky Mountains, where she fostered settlements and built schools and churches, but never lost hope in finding her family.

Da Silva pulled in eyeballs from around the globe when she and her group of 170 recreationists recreated a slave auction in downtown St. Louis in 2011. Da Silva said that St. Louis and Missouri cannot sweep its slave past under the rug.

“We can’t whitewash it,” she said. “We can’t say it never happened here. I am not going to deny my ancestors.”

Da Silva found the best way to pull this off was to do so in first person with a commitment to be as authentic as possible. She has woven the stories of her grandmother’s grandmother, who was a Missouri slave, with a scholars’ dedication.

“I drained my grandmother’s memory,” da Silva said “There were a lot of stories.”

She grew up in O’Fallon as one of the only black students in the Fort Zumwalt School District. Da Silva would go on to have a successful decorated career in the tourism industry, founding the National Black Tourism Network (which hosts media tours and special events that showcase Missouri history), as well serving as a professor at Lindenwood University.

She has brought her characters – the real Clara Brown, Lila the Missouri Slave and Mary Fields, the only black female stagecoach driver – to the rural regions of the South and the Midwest.

“These are people who have done incredible things.”

“When I first started going to these places in the Bootheel and in the South, there was a concern about my safety,” da Silva said. “Every other truck would have either a gun rack or a Confederate Flag, but I have never had a problem.”

Those in attendance can feel free to visit with da Silva (in character as Brown) from 12-5 p.m. between performances.

Then is also a good time to explore the

grounds of the historic park, located at 1868 Highway F. The program is free, but seating is limited to allow for proper social distancing inside the chapel.

Additional guidelines will be observed during the event and include each participant’s temperature will be taken before entering the chapel to watch the performance.

Seating is limited to a maximum of 30

guests during each performance and park staff will seat and release guests to maintain social distancing.

To ensure a seat, guests are encouraged to register online or call the park at 636798-2005.

“History has not included these stories and on a lark, I decided to rescue them,” da Silva said. “These are people who have done incredible things.”

JULY 2020 | CROSSROADS | 11

Always An Advsenture

JUST BREATHE

BY AVALANCHE

COMING HOME FROM A DOCTOR’S APPOINTMENT, rolling down the highway, I realized my riding technique was poor. A lack of focus ahead, jerky turns and drifting within the lane put my lack of mindfulness on display. A few deep breaths and a focused gaze forward helped put me back in the moment. Planted on the saddle, I became conscious of the wind, engine sound and vibration, speed and road surface. The motorcycle sent lots of instant feedback about my place and trajectory in the world, all I had to do was pay attention. The flat ranch country just outside town gave way to a narrow canyon, where the sight lines were much shorter and a natural funnel for one’s attention.

Little traffic was moving, though more than one approaching vehicle wandered into my lane, indicating that a lack of attentiveness was a common affliction today.

Paying attention yielded dividends, as the weight of much mental clutter fell away over the next few miles. I continued past the road to my neighborhood, pushing work obligations and chores off until later. Rolling on the throttle at the entry to the curves, and backing off on the straights kept my speed 12 | CROSSROADS | JULY 2020

constant; brisk but not crazy; moving meditation at highway speeds. There were no more jerky corners or drifting within the lane, just smooth riding.

A few more miles and a thousand feet higher in elevation, pockets of fresh snow were still lingering in the shaded areas, unusual for a couple weeks before the summer solstice, especially since it had been 93 degrees three days prior.

A sweeping hairpin turn marked the beginning of the mountain pass, which provided expansive views of the valley I had just travelled. Once at the top, a half-foot of new snow blanketed the surrounding terrain, with a number of broken branches and bent trees straining under the unseasonable weight of the wet, heavy slush.

A U-turn at the top and a leisurely ride back down the valley brought me back home, an hour later than expected. Two big dogs ran out to greet me, demanding that I give them the attention they think they deserve which is quite a bit. I gladly showered them with affection (and some food), then took them in the truck part-way back from where I had just ridden. Work and chores would

still be waiting at home when I returned; and while they too, would demand my attention, unlike with the dogs, I didn’t feel the least bit bad about ignoring them for another hour or two.

The mutts enjoyed the unseasonable snow, and got quite wet and muddy, which added to the chores of cleaning up the house when we returned. While we were out, the dogs didn’t have a hard time focusing on fun and play. They’re blissfully unaware of events outside their place in the world, and they’re quite happy with simply having enough food, someone to pet them and a place to sleep. There’s a lesson there for us, if we can slow down, breath, and pay attention.

As the Four Horsemen seem to be getting saddled-up for an Apocalyptic Rodeo, it’s important to take a few breaths and pay attention, even if it’s just during a ride home from the doctor and taking the dogs for a walk. Work and chores…and perhaps the Apocalypse…will still be waiting for us, but in the meantime, paying attention to the fun and beauty right in front of us is more important than ever.

Moore On Life

The awakening FINALLY, BUSINESSES HAVE STARTED TO OPEN UP AGAIN. It’s like we’ve been in a deep hibernation for

months now. Even so, things are definitely going to be a lot different.

My hair needs coloring; three inches of gray roots are showing. I call for an appointment.

“Hello, can I schedule a dye and cut stat?!”

“The soonest we can get you in is the end of June.”

“Huh? I think you meant July.”

“Oh honey no, I meant 2021.”

The same with dentists. My teeth are fuzzy and feel like I’m growing fur on them. They need a good cleaning or a shave.

I ring the office to see when I can get in.

“Uh, you’re a tad late,” says the receptionist. “We just filled our schedule for the year.”

“But I’m desperate. My teeth feel like I’ve eaten a stuffed animal. Okay, pencil me in for the first of next year.”

“Sorry, he’ll be retired by then.”

Fine! I head to the grocery store to find some deepcleaning toothpaste or sandpaper, whichever works best.

But I’m not used to walking around crowds of people and feel a little uneasy. These bacteria-infested humans are the things we’ve been told to avoid for months. Everyone is eyeing one another suspiciously like one of us is a jack-inthe-box ready to spring or worse…SNEEZE! Ah-CHOO! Someone let loose a big juicy one. Sweet mother! We all duck for cover under the avocado display!

A man next to me grabs one from the top and appears to pull a pin from it then lobs it towards the offending sneezer.

I comment, “You do know that’s an avocado and not a grenade, right?”

He looks at me sheepishly, “Sorry. Reflex leftover from ‘Nam.” I guess we’re all a little on edge. Suddenly, nature calls right there in the produce aisle. I panic. I’ve been programmed not to touch anything. I use fist bumps to greet friends; my elbows to open doors; knuckles to punch buttons on touchscreens and I’ll give the elevator buttons a quick ninja kick with the toe of my shoe. So there is no way I’m going to the bathroom in a public place.

I have a feeling adult diaper sales are going to go way up.

I’m going to stock up.

JULY 2020 | CROSSROADS | 13

Automobile Alley

2020

VOLKSWAGEN JETTA

gives a fresh look to a popular sedan

W

ith a base starting price of $18,895, the 2020 Volkswagen Jetta is likely one of the world’s most successful sedans.

More than 17.5 million models have been sold worldwide since first introduced in 1979. And of those appropriated, more than 3.2 million have found a home here in the United States.

The ‘20 Jetta offers a fresh, yet bold, layout, enhanced interior space and a number of new technologies. This compact sedan is offered in five trim levels: S, SE, R-Line, SEL, and SEL Premium. Based on VW’s award winning Modular Transverse Matrix underside foundation, it thus allows their designers more flexibility to reshape the body, creating a longer wheelbase, wider track, and a shorter front overhang.

The fast-sloping rear roofline translates into a coupe-like profile. Dynamic body lines combine with its overall silhouette gives Jetta a look that hinges on being elegant and athletic. The enhanced presence of a large front grille translates to a bold character while the addition of increased chrome and LED lighting lend a premium look of which certainly identifies with Volkswagen’s brand DNA. The car’s profile is marked by its taut surfaces and muscular wheel arches, giving off a strong stance. The rear aerodynamic spoiler helps emphasizes 14 | CROSSROADS | JULY 2020

the sedan’s impressive footprint. Jetta’s width is also highlighted by sharp lines in the LED taillight clusters. Their acclaimed R-Line takes the dramatic styling a step further with a more aggressive rear bumper with stylized dual exhaust outlets, a glossblack grille, black side mirror caps and RLine badging.

The Parking Information feature can assist drivers by locating off-street parking information. Vehicle Health Reports can provide owners easy access to diagnostic information. Jetta SEL and SEL Premium models also offer standard wireless smart phone charging. SE and R-Line models now offer their Cold Weather Package. This includes a suite of premium content including a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, heated wiper’s (while in the lowered position), heated washer nozzles, and remote start.

The interior cabin is engineered for increased comfort while supporting a sophisticated, upscale design. You’ll welcome the 14 cubic feet of trunk space and 60/40 splitfolding rear seats. The cockpit is a driverfocused environment with numerous “soft touch “ materials and an easy to navigate instrument gauge cluster. The front seats feature ergonomically-optimized seating for maximum comfort.

The 2020 Jetta is powered by their responsive 1.4-liter turbocharged/direct-injection engine generating 147 horsepower. Estimated fuel economy shows 30/40 mpg (city/highway), regardless of the transmission choice. A six-speed manual gearbox is standard, with an eight-speed automatic also available. Their fuel-saving Stop/Start system is standard on automatic-transmission models. This technology stops the engine during idle when the brake pedal is pressed. The chassis is well engineered for a smooth ride and notable handling. Breaking personality is more than adequate. The Jetta S and SE comes standard with 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels while the SEL and SEL Premium models have 17-inch wheels, as does the R-Line model. Along with a number of electronic safety systems, Jetta provides a combination of both passive and active safety with its six airbags as standard.

This includes front and side airbags for front passengers and side curtain airbags for outboard seating positions. Every 2020 Jetta comes with a Bumper-to-Bumper Limited Warranty and their Carefree Maintenance backing. The warranty provides coverage for four years or 50,000-miles (whichever occurs first), and can be transferred to subsequent owners. Destination chargers for all Jetta models is an additional $920.

Entertainment

THEATERS REOPENING:

cleaning protocols and social distancing

BY STEVE BRYAN

O

n March 8, I went to a Sunday evening showing of “Onward,” a fun, familyfriendly adventure about two brothers who use magic to spend one more day with their deceased wizard father. At that time, theaters had not shut down and social distancing had just arrived. I was able to buy a ticket and purchase concessions as I normally would, but I noticed the crowd was significantly lighter than usual, especially for a Pixar movie.

A few days later, movie theaters across the country closed their doors, including the Regal Cinema location that I had visited. It made sense because auditoriums have never been places where moviegoers can socially distance. That is especially true if you are sitting in an aisle seat and people must squeeze by you to get to the lobby. Ticket lines for hot releases were never a place to stand six feet apart either.

As a fan who loves movie theaters, the shutdown has been difficult.

I watch a lot of movies at home, but nothing compares to viewing them in theaters.

That is why I was happy to see

that chains such as Regal and AMC Theaters will begin reopening locations in July. Despite my enthusiasm, I still have some concerns about the safeguards and procedures that will be put into place. Will these be enough to keep everyone safe?

Planning to reopen their theaters by July 10, Regal Cinemas outlined their new safety procedures on their website. Contactless payments have become more common, and the theater chain has made it possible to purchase both tickets and concessions through their mobile app. Within the auditoriums, they plan to use ULV (Ultra Low Volume) foggers to sanitize all the seats. The process is non-toxic and reported to be fast drying.

As CNN Business reported, AMC Theaters, another notable chain, also is planning a mid-July reopening of their locations. Their focus is keeping their

customers and staff safe by following local, national and international guidelines (AMC is owned by the Chinese conglomerate Wanda Group.) The CNN piece also mentioned that AMC is working with Clorox on their inhouse cleaning protocols.

The timing here is tied to what is left of the summer movie season. Under normal circumstances, potential blockbusters films would have arrived followed by a new batch for the July 4 weekend. Since theaters were closed over Memorial Day weekend, it is important that the chains take advantage of the July releases of Christopher Nolan’s “Tenet” and Disney’s live action adaptation of “Mulan.”

With theater capacity potentially cut in half, some of the chains may show the new releases in as many as four auditoriums at a time. That means those who want to come back to see the new films should have a chance to do so. If the cleaning protocols are as advertised, the theater experience should be relatively safe as well.

JULY 2020 | CROSSROADS | 15

For the Love of Food

BREAKING BREAD – Comfort food consumption is on the rise – A

s families spend more time at home, Americans are finding comfort in a surprising source: bread. In fact, a 20-year trend of declining grain food consumption has been reversed.

A national study by the Grain Food Foundation suggests that the turnaround is more than a one-time sales blip due to pantry loading. In reality, consumers count bread among their top comfort foods. The study revealed one-third of Americans named pasta and bread as foods that are comforting during a stressful time.

In addition to the comforting flavor, this trend provides valuable nutritional benefits. As a part of many healthy eating plans, bread and pasta are nutritionist approved and provide nutrients needed for healthy aging such as B vitamins, magnesium, selenium, iron, folate and fiber.

“For years, we’ve been telling consumers that grain foods are the foods we love that love us back,” said Christine Cochran, executive director of the Grain Foods Foundation. “The stress has given us permission to enjoy bread and pasta again, but unlike most comfort foods, consumers recognize that grains have nutritional value.”

The highest-ranking comfort foods were ice cream; baked goods like cakes, cookies and pastries; salty snacks; candy; and fast food. However, when asked to identify comfort foods with nutritional advantages, consumers identified bread and pasta as the top two.

Beyond identifying comfort foods and their nutritional value, consumers also expressed worry that bread is in short supply right now.

“We can all rest assured that there is enough supply of grain food products in this country,” Cochran said. “Shoppers may be experiencing some sporadic unavailability of certain highdemand items. However, manufacturers are working closely with retailers to make sure that out-of-stocks are short lived. Consumers will be able to buy their favorite grain-food products and eat them, too.”

To learn more about grain foods in a healthful diet, visit GrainFoodsFoundation.org.

16 | CROSSROADS | JULY 2020

Avocado Veggie Sandwich Recipe courtesy of the Grain Foods Foundation | Prep time: 10 minutes | Servings: 2

Ingredients:

Directions:

1/2 ripe avocado, peeled

In small bowl, combine avocado, lemon juice and salt. Spread mixture evenly over two bread slices.

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 1/8 teaspoon salt 4 slices bread 4 slices tomato 8 slices cucumber 12 slices sweet bell pepper 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar 2 lettuce leaves

Cheesy Black Bean Toast with Pico de Gallo Recipe courtesy of Sylvia Melendez-Klinger, MS, RD, on behalf of the Grain Foods Foundation Prep time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4 (recipe on pg. 17)

Place tomatoes, cucumber and peppers on covered surface. Drizzle with vinegar.

Layer lettuce, tomato, cucumbers and peppers evenly between slices of bread, creating two sandwiches.

For the Love of Food

Panzanella Bagel Salad Recipe courtesy of Sylvia Melendez-Klinger, MS, RD, on behalf of the Grain Foods Foundation Prep time: 5 minutes | Servings: 6

Rotini with Sausage and Mushrooms Recipe courtesy of Sylvia Melendez-Klinger, MS, RD, on behalf of the Grain Foods Foundation Prep time: 18 minutes | Servings: 8

Ingredients:

Directions:

2 medium Roma tomatoes, seeded and diced

In medium bowl, mix tomatoes, canned tomatoes with juice, green pepper, cucumber, onion, cheese, vinegar and basil.

Ingredients:

Directions:

1 box (13 1/4 ounces)whole-grain rotini

Prepare rotini according to package directions. Drain and transfer to large bowl.

Add toasted bagel pieces; toss gently. Marinate, covered, in refrigerator 1 hour.

Serve within 1 hour after marinating. Sprinkle with additional cheese and serve on bed of assorted greens, if desired.

1 pound chicken sausage, sliced

1 1/4 cups canned diced tomatoes, undrained 1/4 cup green bell pepper, diced 1/4 cup cucumber, peeled, seeded and diced 2 tablespoons red onion, diced 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated, plus additional (optional) 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped

1 tablespoon olive or vegetable oil 1 cup leeks, thinly sliced 1 cup green onions, thinly sliced 2 cups mushrooms, sliced 1 cup chicken stock 1/4 cup parsley chopped 6 leaves from tarragon sprigs, chopped

2 bagels (4 ounces each) cut into 2-inch pieces, toasted

1 cup Romano cheese grated

assorted greens (optional)

Parmesan-Romano cheese (optional)

In large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Cook sausage 2-3 minutes, or until well browned. Add leeks, onions and mushrooms; cook until tender. Add chicken stock and simmer 3-5 minutes, or until hot. Fold sausage mixture into warm pasta.

Add parsley, tarragon and Romano cheese; toss again.

Top with Parmesan-Romano cheese, if desired.

Cheesy Black Bean Toast with Pico de Gallo Ingredients:

1⁄8 teaspoon salt (optional)

Directions:

6 Roma tomatoes, diced

1⁄8 teaspoon pepper

Heat oven to 350 F.

1⁄2 medium onion, finely chopped

1⁄2 Hass avocado, diced

1 clove garlic, finely minced

4 bolillos (6 inches) or large Kaiser rolls, sliced in half lengthwise

In medium mixing bowl, combine tomatoes; onion; garlic; peppers; cilantro; lime juice; oregano; salt, if desired; pepper; and avocado; set aside.

2 serrano or jalapeno peppers, finely chopped 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped 1 lime, juice only 1⁄8 teaspoon oregano, finely crushed

1 can (16 ounces) seasoned low-fat refried black beans 2 cups shredded Chihuahua or mozzarella cheese

On medium platter, split rolls. With medium spatula, spread refried beans onto each bread half; sprinkle cheese among bread.

Bake 5-8 minutes, or until cheese is melted and hot.

JULY 2020 | CROSSROADS | 17

Advertiser Profile

Wentzville EDC Business Spotlight Indoor Comfort Specialists

Heating and Air Conditioning

636-887-0971

WWW.LANGINSURANCE.COM

WWW.DARDENNEPRAIRIE.ORG

18 | CROSSROADS | JULY 2020

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

Phone is: (636) 887-0971

Community Calendar

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Independence Day Observed Independence Day Bastille Day Tax Day Parents’ Day National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day

JULY 2020 | CROSSROADS | 19

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