a
BREATHof FRESH AIR
WWW.PBTC.NET
2 | CROSSROADS | MAY 2020
MAY 5
2020
contents
Around Town Local news and events
10
Feature Story A breath of fresh air Enjoying St. Charles County parks while practicing social distancing has been a respite for many during the COVID-19 pandemic
12
Always an Adventure Social distancing in the mountains
13
Moore on Life Sheltered in place
14
Automobile Alley 2020 Dodge Durango mixes power and style
15
Entertainment Classic TV shows that made it to the big screen
16
For the Love of Food A menu fit for family mornings
19
Community Calendar: MAY
On the Cover: Photo provided St. Charles County Parks Department
MAY 2020 | CROSSROADS | 3
MAY
2020 writers
VOL 16 | NO 5
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
4 | CROSSROADS | MAY 2020
Born and raised in South St. Louis, Steve Bryan is now based in Anaheim, California, and has been allowed access to movie and television sets to see actors and directors at work. Though his writing has taken him far from St. Louis, Steve is, at heart, still the same wide-eyed kid who spent countless hours watching classic movies at neighborhood theaters.
Around Town
Staying home, social distancing key to timely contact tracing for St. Charles County Public Health staff Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is expanding our vocabulary with terminology most have rarely or never heard: social distancing, shelter in place, flatten the curve and, most recently, contact tracing. Although this term has only recently been in the news, St. Charles County Department of Public Health staff has conducted “contact tracing” on COVID-19 positive individuals since March 18, when public health became aware of the first positive test. That individual and the more than 450 additional residents who have tested positive since have been interviewed by public health epidemiologists and nurses to determine who they had been in close contact with and might therefore be at higher risk of becoming infected themselves. Then the real work begins because, depending on each individual situation, contacts could be from one or two to dozens and all are interviewed. “Stay at home” and other orders/guidance have made it easier to do contact tracing. Public Health staff say heeding county and state orders has cut the average number of contacts in half – from 10 to five in St. Charles County. Presently, the rate of known infections for St. Charles County is less than half the rate for the city of St. Louis. “I hope that stay-at-home orders can be relaxed sooner, rather than later,” says County Executive Steve Ehlmann. “When they are, it will be even more important that we continue contact tracing and that individuals observe their quarantine orders. Contact tracing will actually reassure people it is safe to leave home. Customers will return to restaurants and nonessential businesses only if they feel safe from exposure to the virus.” St. Charles County Government officials want to do everything they can to ensure that the people with whom the public comes in contact are not infected or exhibiting symptoms of the virus, Ehlmann says. To date, public health has monitored 826 individuals who have completed their quarantine and there are 495 residents presently on quarantine. “We cannot get our local economy going by simply relaxing the stay-at-home restrictions,” says Ehlmann. “We need to build confidence in consumers that they can leave their homes and remain safe. Until we have more testing available, contact tracing is a critical component to reassure our citizens that everything possible is being done to make sure those who are infected continue to stay at home. The virus doesn’t move itself, it is transported from an infected person to other people, so all of us need to continue to minimize our contact with others to minimize its spread.” On a normal day, St. Charles County has two epidemiologists, but COVID-19 has meant the county needs to pull in various resources in order to keep up with the volume. Nurses in the department, school nurses, law enforcement detectives and volunteers – part time and full time – are now part of a 15-person contact tracing team operating twelve hours a day, seven days a week.
“If the number of cases increases,” says Demetrius Cianci-Chapman, St. Charles County Director of Public Health, “our team will have to stretch into the need. I anticipate that before the number of positive tests level off and start to decrease, we will need to quickly train more staff and volunteers to conduct case investigations, contact tracing, monitoring and quarantine management.” Cianci-Chapman said that to date his staff have traced about 2,000 individuals. Contact tracing for all communicable diseases in St. Charles County before COVID-19 was something that only required four full-time staff. The contact tracing calls often require answering numerous questions people have about the virus itself, symptoms, quarantining, social distancing, and more. The St. Charles County Department of Public Health’s 75 employees are working on the front lines of COVID-19, staffing the County’s COVID-19 Information Hotline; doing data entry and analysis; conducting investigations; sending letters to those who may have been exposed to the virus; and following up daily with all who have been quarantined or isolated. Just staffing the hotline takes 14 people for each daily 12-hour shift. Contact tracing will continue as long as there are more cases; the Public Health Department urges everyone to avoid contact with others.
WWW.DARDENNEPRAIRIE.ORG
MAY 2020 | CROSSROADS | 5
Around Town
FIRST RESPONDERS BATTLE COVID-19 St. Charles County Ambulance District and St. Charles County Police Department look to protect the public and themselves in the pandemic By Brett Auten
Since the outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19) lives have been considerably altered. While many have adjusted to new work or school routines, the county’s first responders have had to readjust as well. From the onset of the coronavirus, St. Charles County Ambulance District has worked closely with partners across the continuum of emergency services. Public health, emergency communications, emergency management, fire protection and others began collaborating to develop a plan that would ensure safety for residents and responders. An early and significant protocol change occurred at the emergency dispatch level with the implementation of pandemic screening. When a citizen calls 911, dispatchers ask a series of detailed questions in an attempt to determine the risk of the patient potentially being affected by COVID-19. When crews arrive on scenes, several notable changes have taken place. The first was the implementation of a doorway assessment. No longer are crews positioning themselves next to a patient from the onset of a call. Now, they’re asking screening questions from six-plus feet away. In addition to the doorway assessment, SCCAD is limiting the number of first responders that are sent into scenes to limit exposure. Probably the most notable protocol change for SCCAD has been the increased use of personal protective equipment (PPE) on all calls. Residents who have called 911 in the past are used to seeing the team arrive in gloves. But today, a respirator mask and eye protection are all part of the ensemble and if the situa6 | CROSSROADS | MAY 2020
Photo provided by St. Charles County Ambulance District St. Charles County Ambulance District Lieutenants Ashley Pease and Joanna McGaughey put on personal protective equipment at the start of one of their shifts.
tion is determined to be high-risk, a gown is also worn. John Romeo is the Deputy Chief Medical Officer who has worked at SCCAD for 17 years and has worked in the field for 20-plus years. He said the team of paramedics has reported a wide swath of community reactions to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Some are exercising what could be argued is an over-abundance of caution, and some are not exhibiting enough,” he said. “The vast majority, however, are doing exactly what we need them to do. Some of the information out there paints a picture that is different CONTINUED PAGE 7
Around Town than the reality of our situation. It’s easy to become overwhelmed by all the information. Take time to unplug each day, and make sure your decisions are guided by accurate, factbased information from trusted sources.” St. Charles County Police Chief Kurt Frisz said that all agencies have modified their routines for police work. “In our experience, the public has largely cooperated and has been patient and are abiding by what our government officials have put in place,” Frisz said. “We are not seeing a rise in domestic violence calls. We have not seen an uptick in crime, there has been a slight decrease, and there have been fewer traffic accidents.” Frisz said there are a handful of calls every day to report possible gatherings of more than 10 people or a lack of social distancing but he is not aware of any arrests for breaking the ordinance. The county police officers have a full kit of PPE at their disposal. Eye goggles, face masks, gowns, booties, and gloves are all there to be used at the officer’s discretion. Officer health and safety is always at the forefront of any department. “All of the officers have adjusted well,” Frisz said. “We had some take time off initially, only as a precautionary, but all are back to work. We have had much less loss of first responders (to health reasons) than we were first concerned about.” Frisz has also asked his officers to pump the brakes when it comes to monitoring public offenses and low-level traffic offenses. “Of course, aggressive driving and any threat to public safety will be addressed accordingly,” he said. “But we are trying to minimize public contact.” Tackling infectious disease is not a new concept for SCCAD, but the magnitude of COVID-19 is unlike anything it has faced in years past. Those epidemics and others that came before them led to the creation of sciencedriven policies, procedures and protocols, but the current situation has been the first time said plans were put into place on a large scale. It’s often said that a community shows its true colors during times of challenge, and according to both Frisz and Romeo, St. Charles County’s colors are shining brightly. A lot of people are eager to help and assist those
on the front lines in whatever ways they can. For weeks, both offices have received regular phone calls and emails with offers of assistance. “We appreciate the patience and support,” Frisz said. “We hope normal returns in the very near future.” The messages are coming from large Photo provided by St. Charles County Police Department corporations, small Wearing a protective mask is all part of the job nowadays for the St. Charles County Police Department. businesses and, individuals. Some have been offers of PPE, others have been offers to bers, related to COVID-19 testing. St. Charles take care of lunch or dinner for crews. County and municipality officials and vol“Whether it’s a handmade card from a child unteers will not ask for your social security home from school or a donation of dozens numbers or financial information and do of bottles of hand sanitizer, each act of kind- not give that information to anyone calling ness is appreciated by our team,” Romeo said. regarding COVID-19. “We’ve always said that our residents are the There have been scammers posing as govmost supportive in the nation, but the past ernment officials, requesting your account few weeks have proven it beyond a shadow information, to receive your stimulus check. of a doubt. These scams can come as phone calls, text If you, your business, or your family would messages or e-mails. Also, scammers posing like to provide assistance or a helping hand as government officials requesting fines for during this time, there are endless opportuni- breaking quarantine. There are no such fines/ ties to do so, not only through the ambulance penalties. district, but throughout the community. There are some red flags to almost every “Many social service agencies that provide scam out there. For example, did they conhousing support, nutrition assistance and tact you? Did you ask them to call you? Did other services to at-risk families are seeing a you ask them to e-mail you? If the answer is tremendous uptick in demand,” Romeo said. no or ‘I don’t remember,’ Do not trust them. “A financial contribution to agencies of this This is the best rule to have. Did they demand nature would undoubtedly be greatly appre- payment now or create a sense of urgency or ciated.” demand payment in the form of gift cards or A more simplistic thing families may do to wire transfer? Another no-no. help others is to simply check in with those If you have questions about the legitimacy who are elderly or at risk. Romeo said that of a call, please take a name and number these individuals are feeling even more iso- from the caller and call the St. Charles Counlated than most, and would undoubtedly ty Public Health Hotline at 636-949-1899 or appreciate a card, phone call or visit from the St. Charles County Police Department at outside a window. 636-949-3000. Beware of scammers “This can be a vulnerable time, financially Never ones to not take advantage of a trag- for many people,” Frisz said. “We are adamant edy, Frisz said to be extra aware of scammers. about this, we will never call you to request Residents have reported that phone scam- payment for a warrant or any type of fine. mers are impersonating county and mu- That is not how the legal system works.” nicipality officials and asking for personal information, including social security numMAY 2020 | CROSSROADS | 7
Around Town
St. Charles County paramedics launch “8KinMay” initiative to support Operation Food Search amid COVID-19 Since March, more than 25 million Americans filed for unemployment amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Layoffs, furloughs and reductions in work hours have translated to increased requests for nutrition assistance at food pantries across the nation, including those served by St. Louis-based Operation Food Search (OFS). St. Charles County Ambulance District (SCCAD) paramedics saw this critical need as an opportunity to repay the tremendous support and kindness that residents have shown first responders in recent weeks, and invite members of the community to join their #8KinMay effort to support OFS. “The idea began as an internal collection among our team,” said Lieutenant Ashley Pease, who along with Paramedic Bill Norris, is leading the #8KinMay movement. “The support was swift and resounding – scores of our team members have pitched in, and ultimately raised more than $4,000, which will be used by OFS to stock pantries throughout our county.” With appeals for food assistance certain to increase in the days to come, Norris, Pease and the SCCAD team have a simple request for members of the community able to make a donation: join us. Donations can be made directly to OFS using the link found on
the ambulance district’s social media feeds and website, sccad.com. “By shining a light on this critical need in our community, our hope is that residents will be moved to make a contribution to help neighbors, matching our paramedics’ $4,000 donation for a total of $8,000,” said Norris. OFS has seen a tremendous increase in demand for services since the onset of COVID-19. The organization normally supports approximately 200,000 individuals monthly, and is seeing the need for emergency food supplies explode across the region as thousands of families are facing a loss of household income. “The paramedics of St. Charles County have been long-standing partners in our effort to heal the hurt of hunger,” said Kristen Wild, Executive Director of OFS. “Monies collected through their #8KinMay effort will fund vital OFS programs that provide nutritional support to children, seniors and families. #8KinMay is not the first pairing of SCCAD and OFS; the organizations have collaborated during the holiday season for the past decade on ‘Fill the Ambulance with Food’ – an initiative that has collected 25,000 pounds of food from local retirement communities.”
Holt students earn Martin Luther King Jr. scholarships The annual Martin Luther King Jr. Unity event took place at Holt High School once again on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a program to celebrate the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. As part of the celebration, the WSD offers a scholarship competition and awards a minimum $500 scholarship to high school seniors who keep Dr. King’s legacy alive through their actions. This year’s winners are Holt senior Jamal Rice and early 2020 Holt graduate Aidan McCarthy. “We had several students from across the district submit entries for our annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. scholarship,” Holt Assistant Principal and one of the event’s organizers, Dr. Amanda Shelmire, said. “This year, we were able to award two deserving seniors $500 scholarships based on their resume and explanation of how their school and community leadership activities have supported or promoted the ideas of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. here in Wentzville.” Jahmal Rice was named the winner of the Ceclia Luckett-Crumes Scholarship sponsored by North Star Insurance Advisors. LuckettCrumes was the mother of Barbara Love, the community member responsible for starting the WSD MLK walk and the Unity Ceremony over 15 years ago. Rice has long been participating in CUSA (Culturally United Student Association), the student-run organization that seeks to educate the school community and community at-large about minority culture, as well as to open a dialogue over what may divide cultures in a community–and how to bridge those divides. Events that Rice has organized or helped organize, 8 | CROSSROADS | MAY 2020
Early 2020 Holt graduate Aidan McCarthy was a winner of the $500 scholarship to high school seniors who keep Dr. King’s legacy alive through their actions.
Photos courtesy Wentzville School District Holt senior Jamal Rice was a winner of the $500 scholarship to high school seniors who keep Dr. King’s legacy alive through their actions.
such as a well-attended Soul Food Night at Holt, have sought to spread awareness and helped to form bonds between students of all cultures. Aidan McCarthy, an early graduate of Holt this year, was named the winner of the scholarship sponsored by the Wentzville School District Foundation. McCarthy, who completed the Missouri A+ Mentoring/Tutoring Program, has dedicated more than 150 hours to service in the community at various places, including the Salvation Army, several area churches, and the Wentzville School District.
a
BREATHof FRESH AIR Enjoying St. Charles County parks while practicing social distancing has been a respite for many during the COVID-19 pandemic By Brett Auten These are stressful times. No doubt about it. Since the outbreak of COVID-19, finding moments of sunshine, exercise and peace and tranquility has never been more important. The Center for Disease Control says that visiting your local park is a healthy way, “to relieve stress, get some fresh air and vitamin D, stay active, and safely connect with others.” Doug Bolnick, the Public Information Officer, St. Charles County Department of Public Health, couldn’t agree more. “Getting outdoors as much as you can is great for your mental health,” Bolnick said. “The CDC recommends 30 minutes a day. Any kind of activity is good.” Whether it is running, biking, roller skating, or gardening, any sort of exercise combined with the outdoors is going to be beneficial. CONTINUED PAGE 10
MAY 2020 | CROSSROADS | 9
outdoors “ Getting mental health
as much as you can is great for your
. The CDC recommends 30
minutes a day.
Any kind of activity is good� - Doug Bolnick, the Public Information Officer, St. Charles County Department of Public Health
Photos provided St. Charles County Parks Department There are opportunities aplenty in any number of the St. Charles County parks to get some fresh air, sunshine, and exercise, all while keeping at a safe social distance. The Parks have seen an uptick in attendance since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.
10 | CROSSROADS | MAY 2020
“Anything that strengthens the body will strengthen the immune system,” Bolnick said. “What is good for building a strong heart is also good for building a strong mind.” With the state of Missouri opening back this month, Bolnick stressed that coupled with washing hands and practicing social distancing, wearing a face mask in public settings lowers everyone’s risk for getting COVID-19. When going to the park, or anywhere, bring sanitizer and be mindful of all of the tricks of the trade that we have learned along this journey. “The same things we have learned about, it needs to continue,” he said. “It is a scary illness and to avoid the opportunity to spread it, we need to stay away as much as possible.” Bolnick said the news of some relief is a credit to the county government and the residents working together. “People have made the sacrifice,” he said. “It never got to the worst-case scenario that we were first concerned about.” Though its programs were put to a halt, the St. Charles County Parks saw plenty of traffic in March and April. From January thru March, with over 648,000 guests visiting. The month of March alone brought in half that amount. Though the figures for April were not complete as of press time, the parks were
still a source of comfort with social distancing and crowd size measures in place. “The backyard is getting a little boring,” Nancy Lee Gomer, Public Information Officer for the County’s Parks, said. “People are more than willing to abide by the rules just to get a taste of nature or to release some negative thoughts.” There are counters at the entrances of each park, with the average vehicle carrying two guests. Gomer gave a shout out to Gateway Off-Road Cyclists and the St. Charles County Disc Golf Club has been a big help in spreading the word about the social distancing standards that is the new norm. To see when normal registration for activities resume, stayed tuned to the Parks Department’s social media platforms. Officials will continue to monitor recommendations before setting forth with their scheduling for upcoming programs. “The Activity Guide is ready to go but we don’t want to give any false hope,” Gomer said. “As soon as we get the green light we will be ready to go.”
MAY 2020 | CROSSROADS | 11
Always An Advsenture
Social distancing
IN THE MOUNTAINS BY AVALANCHE
Those of us living out in the remote and rural areas of the country have long been practicing what’s now referred to as “social distancing.” We live off the main highways and out of the urban and suburban zones. Eschewing the accessibility and convenience of nearby malls, grocery stores, doctors’ offices, hardware stores and public services, we’re generally polite and friendly, but we treasure our privacy and personal spaces. Some of our favorite neighbors are the ones we rarely see or hear. Our properties, generally larger than those found in modern planned communities, tend to look a bit more cluttered, sporting parts and pieces of cars, trucks, old fences and sheds that we can’t bear to part with, because you never know when you’ll need something from one of those items, and the hardware store is an hour-and-onehalf round trip away. Our preferred activities tend toward the solitary; i.e. fishing, hunting, hiking, skiing and climbing. Lots of motorcyclists live and recreate around here; even when riding in a group, there’s a good distance between group members while rolling down the road. Walking the dogs is one of the more social activities, and the mutts playing with each other at the ends of their respective leashes provide a nice, safe, standoff distance for their owners. Living several miles away from the nearest store tends to behoove residents to keep 12 | CROSSROADS | MAY 2020
freezers and pantries full, as a rock could fall on the highway and no one can get to town for days at a time. Besides, once at home, driving to town is a distasteful activity, when one could be outside enjoying the mountains. Work leans toward the “essential service” side of things. Road work, water system repair and maintenance, electrical work and other blue-collar activities provide occupations for many here. There are several health-care personnel in our neighborhood, quite busy these days, and keeping their fingers crossed that they don’t become statistics. Regarding a shift away from normal, our business and government leaders have long promoted this area as a vacation getaway, with good cause; it’s a great place to be. Outdoor recreation brings in a lot of money here, except now everything is shut down. There’s much less demand for “essential services” when everything else is closed. Our local three-county region is officially considered a virus “hot-spot,” but many from out of the area suffer from the delusion that this is going to be a great place to hang out for a while, so they can avoid the storm raging back home. Lots of out-of-state and out-of-area license plates adorn many of the vehicles still traveling here. Trailhead parking areas are overflowing with many of these nomads, who haven’t gotten the message
that we’re closed for business. Our two local hospitals have a combined capacity of about 75 beds, which serve a full-time population of about 40,000. There’s not much vacancy at the medical inn during normal times, let alone now. With most hotels and campgrounds shuttered, there’s not much vacancy anywhere. Yesterday, signs went up a few miles away at the adjacent county line stating that nonresidents and non-essential travel are prohibited, and a permit is required to enter the county. How they’re going to enforce that order remains to be seen, but the sentiment is shared by many of us here, and in other remote areas. Far to the east, in Appalachia, a county placed concrete barriers on their main roads (including a highway popular with motorcyclists) with a similar countyissued order – residents only. There have already been discussions here in the neighborhood about making this into a gated community. Logistically it would be a simple matter, but it would take a big leap in mindset and attitudes - which could occur overnight. We’re doing OK out here, at least for now. However, the welcome mat has been withdrawn, and while the barricades haven’t gone up just yet, labor and materials are being planned out. Who knows what the next few days and weeks will bring during this strange time.
Moore On Life
Sheltered in place WHAT A YEAR WE’VE HAD SO FAR AND WE’RE ONLY INTO MAY. Spring is supposed to be the time of rebirth and hope. I look like I’ve been rebirthed by a blue whale and there’s little hope for my diet. I’m going to have to get out of my pajamas and put on my swimsuit. That will make me think twice about eating. It’s all because of the corona – that dreaded lung bug otherwise known as COVID-15 (the 15 pounds gained during the shutdown). Thanks to the quarantine, I’ve had a month-long affair. What else was there to do after being cooped up feeling bored and not able to go anywhere? I found myself continually going to and from the welcoming door of my love – Kenmore; my big, burly…refrigerator. I would race to his welcoming
door at all hours seeking relief and comfort. From there, I’d guiltily sneak back and join my husband on the couch. We found ways to pass the long arduous hours by doing various algebraic problems…Nah! I’ve never used algebra since tenth grade and I doubted it was going to come in handy during this zombie apocalypse. Instead we did what 99 percent of the population was doing….binge-watched NetFlix. We started with a movie to take the edge off of the crisis. We chose a light and fluffy flick called “Contagion.” After all, it was the most watched show trending at the time. It detailed the world collapse after a deadly virus struck. It left us terrified with the urge to stock up on more essentials. After a few calculations, we determined from our house to the store was about two miles and would
take approximately 18 minutes; enough time to panic-shop and get back just in time for our next program. Hey, we just calculated the distance between two points-who would have thought algebra would come in handy during the apocalypse. We arrived back with the vital necessities: TP and ice cream. It should keep us in check for at least another week. To settle our nerves, we hunkered down with our own individual carton of rocky road and watched “Tiger King.” Afterwards, we realized our life was pretty normal compared to the King’s. We felt so much better that we celebrated with a recommitment to eat less. We got another container of cookies ‘n’ cream – to split, of course. I said we decided to cut back.
MAY 2020 | CROSSROADS | 13
Automobile Alley
2 0 2 0
DODGE DURANGO
mixes power and style AS WE LOOK BACK, sport utility vehicles have certainly been a beloved and celebrated choice for new vehicle buyers for a number of years. To take this attraction to yet a higher level, how about an SUV with a performance engine powering it? That’s precisely what Fiat-Chrysler has in its recipe for 2020, with the Dodge Durango SRT. With its ultimate muscularity, the Durango SRT is America’s most powerful, standard three-row SUV, reaching 0-60 MPH in just 4.4 seconds. The power formulation begins with their remarkable 6.4-Liter HEMI V8 engine. It generates some serious 475 horsepower and commanding torque. Adopted from automotive racing, the cold air intake system feeds the engine cooled/outside air for added acceleration. This is combined with the best towing capacity in its class of up to 8,700 pounds. The SRT model is well suited for street driving plus the track as well as for off-roading. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves, and take a moment to visit the base model Durango, as it’s the foundation of their SRT Performance edition. Pricing starts out at $30,495 plus it’s offered in a number of model configurations; SXT, GT, Citadel, R/T and the SRT performance variant. Rear-wheel-drive chassis set-ups are standard across the product mix, with all-wheel-drive as an option with the exception of there SRT, as AWD is included. The entry model is equipped with an 18-inch allweather tire and aluminum wheel package, it seats up to seven quite comfortably. This also includes plenty of rear cargo carrying space under the rear hatch. The base engine is their reliable 3.6-liter V6. It’s rated at 19MPG city/26-MPG highway with RWD and it’s matched with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The body design is distinctive and hinges on having a bold/resolute yet modern appearance overall. There is no mistaking Durango 14 | CROSSROADS | MAY 2020
as its footprint and silhouette is original and singular. The front grille assembly showcases the Dodge brand’s characteristically valiant DNA. The fairly large glass windows further enhances the vehicle’s greenhouse aspect. Now to “fast forward” and place the rocket on wheels SRT in the spotlight, it too uses their eight-speed TorqueFlite automatic transmission however, this gearbox uses rev-matching technology which is specifically calibrated for the SRT to optimize shift points and deliver maximum torque to all four wheels. EPA numbers show 13-MPG city and 19-MPG highway with this high-end powertrain setup. SRT’s bulging/prominent engine hood cover blankets it’s proven and uncompromised 392 cubic inch exceptional engine. The vehicle’s aggressive outer skin was reworked with high-end extras which included unique ground effects for proper air mapping and a notable front lower fascia. In the rear are two large 4-inch chrome exhaust tailpipes that’s telegraphing the rumble sound of the engines remarkable capabilities. Also included is a full horizontal “brightly lit” LED ribbon tail light assembly. The unordinary outer SRT markings further siren the singularity of this showstopping vehicle Heated front and second row seats, leather/ heated steering wheel with paddle shifters, eight-way power operated driver’s seat and six-way power front passenger seat plus a third row foldable seat are also included. Base pricing reflecting the 2020 Durango SRT shows
$62,995. The standard warranty is for threeyears/36,000 miles. The powertarin warranty shows five-years/60,000 miles. After options and shipping charges, the MSRP sticker price at roadtest came out to be $73,060.
Entertainment
Classic
TV shows that made it to the big screen
T
BY STEVE BRYAN
hough my Mom told me that watching too much TV would hurt my eyes, I spend a lot of time in front of the television set these days. One of my favorite stations is Antenna TV, which is available for free in St. Louis on KTVI Channel 2.2 and accessible with an antenna that connects to your TV set. This station is home to classic sitcoms and courtroom dramas such as “Perry Mason” and “Matlock” as well as some great “Carol Burnett” reruns. Recently, “The Flintstones” joined the Antenna TV lineup, but years ago it also found its way to the big screen. The casting was just about perfect: John Goodman slipped on Fred’s signature necktie while Rick Moranis was on board as Barney Rubble, Fred’s best friend. Elizabeth Perkins captured the essence of Wilma, but Rosie O’Donnell stole some scenes as the bubbly Betty Rubble. Even Elizabeth Taylor got in on the fun with a supporting role in this 1994 comedy. In the 1960’s, a show about a backwoods family turned millionaires was probably a hard sell, but “The Beverly Hillbillies” became a beloved sitcom. Buddy Ebsen led the ensemble cast as Jed Clampett, a man with lots of common sense and wisdom. He and his family had to navigate the strange new world of Beverly Hills and its culture. Though it featured comedic talent such as Jim Varney, Lily Tomlin and Cloris Leachman, the 1993 big screen version of the show did not do very well. Like “I Dream of Jeannie,” “Bewitched” had magical themes. Elizabeth Montgomery starred as Samantha Stephens, a witch who falls in love with a mortal named Darin (played by Dick York and later Dick Sargent). Darin was not a fan of magic while his mother-in-law Endora (Agnes Moorehead) hated that her daughter married a mortal. The 2005 “Bewitched” movie paired Will Ferrell with Nicole Kidman, but the plot left a lot to be desired. Stewie from “Family Guy” hated it so much he travelled cross-country to punch out Will Ferrell in one animated segment. “M*A*S*H” is arguably one of the most successful television dramas of all time, but it started as a movie. Based on Richard Hooker’s novel “MASH: A Novel About Three Army Doctors,” the 1970 film showed the inner workings of a Mobile Army Surgical Hospital. Gary Burghoff reprised his cinematic role of “Radar” O’Reilly in the TV series but left before the final seasons. “M*A*S*H” pushed the outside of the envelope, especially with an episode that was shot in real time. “The Brady Bunch,” America’s favorite blended family, came from the mind of Sherwood Schwartz, the creator of “Gilligan’s Island.” Schwartz said he was inspired by a report in the Los Angeles Times about marriages where some of the children came from previous relationships. In 1995, Betty Thomas directed a big screen adaptation of “The Brady Bunch” where the family retained their 1970’s attitudes in the present day. This movie was fun, but “A Very Brady Sequel” veered off course. (From top) ‘The Flinstones’, photo courtesy Universal Pictures ‘MASH’, These are just a few of the shows that graced both the big and small screens. photo courtesy Aspen Productions; ‘The Brady Bunch’, photo courtesy Paramount Pictures; ‘Bewitched’, photo courtesy Columbia Pictures Stay safe and healthy and I hope to see you at the movies sometime soon. MAY 2020 | CROSSROADS | 15
For the Love of Food
GOODNESS FROM MORNING TO NIGHT
M
any spring celebrations call for fabulous food, specifically dishes fit for brunch, even if your “crowd” is simply your nearest loved ones gathered at the family table. A wide variety of recipes may fit the festivities, but a combination of comforting
bites with sweet and savory flavors is perfect for appeasing all appetites. This menu of morning recipes includes Chive and Orange Blossom Honey Waffles and Spicy Garlic Honey Chicken as a filling option to base the meal around with
Breakfast Casserole as a more traditional dish. For a sweet sendoff, this Brown Sugar Bundt Cake is best served warm as a midday dessert or can be added to your plate as a simple side. Find more brunch recipes at Culinary.net.
Brown Sugar Bundt Cake Recipe courtesy of “Browned Butter Blondie” on behalf of C&H
A Bundt Cake for Brunch Many brunch festivities may center around classic breakfast foods like quiches and fresh fruits, but you can take your gathering to the next level with a treat to pair with nearly any dish. This Brown Sugar Bundt Cake can be the simple, sweet side your guests crave as a complement to the savory recipes on the table. Made using just a handful of household ingredients, including the flavor-boosting addition of C&H sugars, it can be created in about an hour and served warm during your next at-home brunch gathering. Find more sweet treat ideas at chsugar.com.
Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 50 minutes Ingredients: Nonstick cooking spray 2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon kosher salt 10 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 3/4 cups packed Golden Brown Sugar 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar 2 large eggs, at room temperature 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla 1 cup full-fat Greek yogurt onfectioners’ Sugar, for C dusting
Directions: Heat oven to 350 F. Grease 10-cup bundt pan with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside. In medium bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. In bowl of stand mixer fitted with paddle attachment, beat butter, brown sugar and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add vanilla and mix on low speed. With mixer on low, add flour mixture in three additions, alternating with yogurt. Begin and end with flour mixture. Mix until just combined. Pour batter into prepared bundt pan and use offset spatula to level batter. Bake 50-55 minutes, or until cake is golden brown and toothpick inserted in center of cake comes out clean. If cake browns too quickly while baking, cover with foil after 35 minutes. Remove from oven and cool on baking rack 20 minutes. Invert pan onto baking rack and gently tap bottom of pan to release cake. Cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar. 16 | CROSSROADS | MAY 2020
For the Love of Food Ingredients:
Directions:
1 pound red or white potatoes, scrubbed and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
Heat oven to 350 F.
water 1/2 small onion, coarsely chopped (about 1/2 cup)
Breakfast Casserole
nonstick cooking spray
Recipe courtesy of Marcia Stanley, MS, RDN, on behalf of Milk Means More
Prep time: 25 minutes | Cook time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6
A Dairy-Fueled Brunch Dish Whether it’s just part of a brunch spread or the focus of your meal, an egg-based casserole is a perfect way to appease a morning crowd. This version of Breakfast Casserole calls for potatoes, ham, eggs, milk and cheese for a simple dish that requires little preparation before popping in the oven. Visit milkmeansmore.org for more morning dishes.
1/2 teaspoon salt, divided 1/4 teaspoon pepper 1 cup reduced-fat and reduced-sodium, chopped, cooked ham (about 4 ounces) 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded Swiss or cheddar cheese 4 eggs 1 1/2 cups skim milk 1 tablespoon mustard
In large saucepan, cover potato pieces with enough water to just submerge. Bring to boil. Reduce heat; simmer, covered, 5 minutes. Add onion. Return to simmer, covered, about 5 minutes, or until potatoes are just tender. Drain well. Cool slightly. Coat 8-by-8-by-2-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Place potatoonion mixture in baking dish. Sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon salt and pepper. Gently stir to combine. Sprinkle ham and cheese on top. In medium bowl, lightly beat eggs. Whisk in milk, mustard and remaining salt. Pour over layers in baking dish. Bake, uncovered, 40-45 minutes, or until knife inserted near center comes out clean. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.
Chive and Orange Blossom Honey Waffles and Spicy Garlic Honey Chicken Recipe courtesy of chef Jenny Dorsey on behalf of the National Honey Board | Servings: 4
A Sweet Morning Eat PHOTO COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGES
Add flavor to your brunch with the sweet taste of honey as part of a remade rendition of a breakfast favorite: chicken and waffles. This recipe for Chive and Orange Blossom Honey Waffles and Spicy Garlic Chicken combines sweet with savory to shine as the main course for your gathering. Find more recipe ideas at honey.com.
Chicken:
1 t easpoon garlic powder
1 t easpoon baking powder
8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 t easpoon onion powder
1 1/4 cups whole milk
2 cups buttermilk
2 t easpoons paprika
2 tablespoons kosher salt, divided
1/2 t easpoon ancho chile powder
1/4 c up fresh chives, chopped
chicken; cover and let marinate 8 hours or overnight.
3/4 t easpoon ground black pepper, divided
v egetable oil, as needed
3/4 c up sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/4 teaspoon rosemary, chopped
Waffles:
In separate mixing bowl, combine flour, remaining salt, remaining pepper, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika and ancho chile powder; stir.
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons orange blossom honey 2 cups all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 2 t easpoons orange blossom honey 1 t easpoon orange zest 1 t easpoon kosher salt
2 l arge eggs
honey To make chien: Rinse chicken thighs and pat dry with paper towels; place in large bowl. In separate bowl, combine buttermilk, 1 tablespoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, rosemary and honey. Pour buttermilk mixture over
Remove each piece of chicken from buttermilk, shake to remove excess liquid and dredge in flour mixture. Shake off excess. In deep fryer, heat oil to 375
F. Fry chicken until internal temperature reaches 175 F or juices run clear, approximately 5 minutes per thigh. Drain on paper towels. To make waffles: In large mixing bowl, mix flour, honey, orange zest, salt, baking powder, milk, eggs, chives and cheese until combined. Use waffle maker to cook four waffles in batches. Place chicken on waffles and drizzle with honey.
MAY 2020 | CROSSROADS | 17
Advertiser Profile
Wentzville Business Spotlight
WWW.LANGINSURANCE.COM
Imagination Pottery Studio is located at 1463 Wentzville Parkway, just down the street from Wentzville City Hall. The business is owned by Megan Kumbera and was purchased in May 2015. Our business offers walk-in pottery painting, classes, birthday parties, and even camps. We love that Wentzville is a hub of activity and remains a people-friendly community. We are excited about the new recreational facility coming to Wentzville. We have been voted as the Best DIY Studio for the third year in a row by the St. Louis Post Dispatch. Come by to relax, have some fun, and create new memories.
(636) 327-4699
18 | CROSSROADS | MAY 2020
Community Calendar
May 1 – May Day
2 – National Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Day 5 – Cinco de Mayo 6 – National Nurses Day 7 – National Day of Prayer 8 – Truman Day 10 – Mother’s Day 15 – Peace Officers Memorial Day 16 – Armed Forces Day 20 – Emergency Medical Services for Children Day 22 – National Maritime Day 25 – Memorial Day
MAY 2020 | CROSSROADS | 19
WWW.PROACTIVEPRINTSERVICES.COM
FREE Online Subscription at www. MYCNEWS
WWW.TREESBYWOODY.NET