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OCTOBER 5

Around Town Local news and events

Nonprofit Profile Chamber music with an innovative modern twist

2019

contents

Feature Story O’Fallon on the Air O’Fallon TV is a labor of love for those behind the scenes of the city of O’Fallon’s 24-hour government access cable station

Always an Adventure Honey galore

Moore on Life Spicing it up

Automobile Alley The 2019 Lexus UX 250h Hybrid is a leap forward in the compact luxury crossover segment

Food A creative twist on Halloween carvings

Entertainment Classic sitcoms that made it to the big screen

Advertiser Profile Top RV dealers work together to ensure quality customer service

Community Calendar: October

On the Cover: Photo by city of O’Fallon

OCTOBER 2019 | CROSSROADS | 3

OCTOBER

2019 writers

VOL 15 | NO 10

BY AVALANCHE

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

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

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

ALWAYS AN ADVENTURE – PG. 12

BY CINDY MOORE

MOORE ON LIFE – PG. 13

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

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

BY DAVID FINKELSTEIN

For advertising information, please contact us at:

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

www.mycnews.com

Copyright 2019 Huneke Publications, Inc. No part of the publication may be reproduced in any form without the expressed written consent of the publisher. Crossroads is a trademark of Huneke Publications, Inc. Any published use of Crossroads implying affiliation is strictly prohibited.

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

AUTOMOBILE ALLEY – PG. 14

BY STEVE BRYAN

ENTERTAINMENT – PG. 15

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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

Wentzville School District demographic report predicts continued enrollment growth The Wentzville School District could add up to 5,000 new students over the next decade according to projections in a new demographic study released by MGT Consulting Group. The findings, which indicate the district could top 22,000 students over the next 10 years, were shared with the Board of Education by MGT Project Director Dan Schmidt at the Aug. 15 board meeting. The report’s key findings include that since 2009, WSD enrollment has increased 38.57 percent across all age groups with grades 9-12 experiencing the most growth during that time at 49.39 percent. The report also states that although the population of females of child-bearing age has slightly decreased across the district, the future school age population (under five) has increased. “As a district we are well versed in dealing with growth and we can speak confidently about our historical enrollment,” said Superintendent Dr. Curtis Cain. “But when it comes to predicting future growth, we rely

on the professionals to assist us with that so we can effectively plan to have the infrastructure in place to educate all students. This study confirms our growth will continue for the foreseeable future and we will need to continue to plan for expansion in the WSD.” The report acknowledges that the new elementary school scheduled to open next year will temporarily alleviate the K-6 capacity issues, but says the anticipated increase in enrollment will soon lead to a need for additional elementary space. The study also concedes that need would be reduced if the district decides to move sixth grade back into the middle school buildings. “In that situation, the overutilization at the elementary school buildings would be alleviated and the need for additional elementary school capacity would be reduced.” However, the study acknowledges that moving sixth grade back to middle school would then accelerate the need for a fourth middle school.

“Current middle school capacity will accommodate enrollment for the next several years, though enrollment will need to be balanced across existing space (due to a capacity issue at Wentzville Middle School). The projected utilization for the middle schools would change significantly if the district decided to move the sixth grade back into the middle school buildings.” The study also confirms the fourth high school will address overutilization at the existing three high schools and “keep the high school grade band efficiently utilized through the next decade.” This is the third demographic study that the district has commissioned since 2007. The WSD continues to be the fastest growing school district in the 21st century, averaging 602 new students each year since 2001. Current enrollment is approximately 17,400 students, which reflects an increase of over 600 students from this time last year and makes the WSD the ninth largest school district in Missouri.

WWW.BYERLYRV.COM

OCTOBER 2019 | CROSSROADS | 5

Around Town

St. Charles County Parks offers chills and thrills this Halloween season Get spooked or enjoy some not-so-scary family-friendly fun with the St. Charles County Parks and Recreation Department this Halloween season. ADULT HAUNTED HAYRIDE 7 to 11 p.m., Oct. 4 Broemmelsiek Park 1795 Highway DD in Defiance Venture out into the darkness on a hayride wagon to witness unspeakable horror and terrifying scenes in the park. When you finally make your way out of the woods, enjoy music, a bonfire, bone chilling storytelling and purchase food truck favorites and beer at the Hilltop Group Area. Participants must be 21 years or older to attend. Admission is $15 in advance; $20 at the park. To pre-register, visit http://bit.ly/2019AdultHauntedHayride or call the Parks Administrative Office at 636949-7535. JACK-O-GLOW WALK 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., Oct. 18 St. Charles County Heritage Museum 1650 Heritage Landing in St. Peters Bring the family out to the museum for a free Jack-O-Glow Walk hosted by St. Charles County Parks, Great Rivers Greenway and Fresh Thyme Markets. This event will feature 100 pumpkins carved by residents that will illuminate the outside of the museum and one mile of the adjoining Centennial Trail. After the walk, families are invited to stay 6 | CROSSROADS | OCTOBER 2019

and watch a child-friendly Halloween movie outside on the big screen. Pumpkin carving is from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.; walk begins at 7 p.m.; and movie at 7:30 p.m. Prizes will be awarded for the top three best carvings. Participants interested in carving a pumpkin must bring their own tools and pre-register. Call the museum at 636-255-6000 to register or visit http://bit.ly/2019Jack-O-GlowWalk. Registration to attend the event is not required, only to carve. SPIRITS OF THE PAST 6 to 10:30 p.m., Oct. 19 The Historic Daniel Boone Home 1868 Highway F in Defiance Tales and stories from the 1800s are brought to life at Spirits of the Past. Walk through lantern-lit paths in the historic park, listen to murder ballads in the Old Peace Chapel and, if you dare, hear the eerie Legend of Sleepy Hollow by renowned story teller Anne Williams. This spooktacular event is a great alternative to traditional Halloween celebrations and is recommended for children age seven and older. Tickets are limited and pre-registration is suggested. Admission is $6 if preregistered or $10 at the door. To pre-register, visit http://bit.ly/2019SpiritsOfThePast or call the park at 636-798-2005.

NIGHT OF FRIGHT HAUNTED HOUSE 6 to 10 p.m., Oct. 25 and Oct. 26 Youth Activity Park 7801 Highway N in Dardenne Prairie Creepy creatures lurk around every corner at the Night of Fright Haunted House. This scary place is a maze of haunted rooms filled with frightful scenes and is designed to entertain children and adults. Admission to the haunted attraction is $5 at the door. For more information, call the park at 636-5614964.This haunted house requires participants to crawl and consists of small spaces, strobe lights, dark areas and intense scenes that may not be suitable for all individuals. MINI MONSTER MASH 3 to 5 p.m., Oct. 26 Youth Activity Park 7801 Highway N in Dardenne Prairie For a less scary version of the Night of Fright Haunted House, children ages eight and under are invited to the Mini Monster Mash. Participants will make s’mores and decorate pumpkins; everyone takes home a candyfilled goodie bag. Admission is $5 at the door. For more information, call the park at 636561-4964. For more information about St. Charles County Parks Halloween happenings, call 636-949-7535 or visit stccparks.org and click on “activity registration,” then search for your favorite program.

Around Town

Wentzville electronics recycling event diverts more than 27,000 pounds of waste More than 27,000 pounds of electronic waste (or ewaste) was diverted from the landfill following Wentzville’s third electronics recycling event. Last month, more than 350 participants came through the drive-thru event to drop off items including laptops, cell phones, TVs, printers, computers and more. Since 2018, Wentzville has diverted more than 82,000 pounds of ewaste from the landfill. There will be a second 2019 electronics recycling event on Nov. 23 at Holt High School from 9-11:30 a.m. The November event will also include personal document shredding, which will be limited to six Banker’s Boxes or three, 13-gallon trashbags per household. The events are for individuals and families only, no businesses please.

Photo courtesy city of Wentzville

Missouri Secretary of State awards Edge Action Plan Grant to St. Charles City-County Library Missouri Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft announced that the St. Charles City-County Library has been awarded an Edge Action Plan Grant of $18,000. “Our libraries are an invaluable resource to Missourians, offering public access to a wide array of materials and technology,” Ashcroft said. “These grants ensure libraries have the funds they need to offer quality technology-based services and programs to their patrons.” The library will use the grant to provide four computers with editing software, microphones and cameras to aid patrons in the creative process. Additionally 32 Chromebooks will be added for circulation in the library, allowing for more flexible use of space for both individual and group work. While the new resources will be available to all, there is a special target of addressing the needs of people looking to improve their job skills or create materials for their small business. Edge is a nationally recognized tool that helps libraries evaluate their technology services based on a set of national technology benchmarks, giving them resources, recommendations and ideas for strategic planning and community engagement. Edge Action Plan Grants provide funds to assist public libraries in completing goals they set from using Edge. Projects may address needs for new or expanded technology-based services or the replacement of outdated technology at the library, as identified through an Edge Assessment. The Secretary of State’s State Library has approved a total of 15 grant applications in the 2020 fiscal year, totaling $158,934 in federal awards that the secretary’s office has distributed to libraries throughout Missouri. The grants are funded by the Library Services and Technology Act through the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services. OCTOBER 2019 | CROSSROADS | 7

Nonprofit Profile

Chamber music with an innovative modern twist

SUBMITTED PHOTOS

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ntimate, informative, inviting and invigorating chamber music concerts inspired by contemporary ideas and issues make Chamber Project St. Louis one of the most innovative performing arts organizations in the region. The music on every concert is linked through a theme and the performers tell the stories of the music throughout the concert, weaving the music together through a story audience members connect with. For their 12th season the overarching theme is inspired by local geography, the confluence of the two mighty rivers that define the history of our region. Confluence, the blending of two streams into one inspires programming that links the music of the past to the music of today; music from across the world to the musical excellence of composers living here in St. Louis. Each concert this season features music of a locally connected composer, including three commissions. With a passion for creating community experiences, diverse programming, story-telling and musical excellence, the Artistic Directors of Chamber Project St. Louis have created a concert experience unlike anything else in the region. Every concert is in a different venue throughout the St. Louis area, each with its own distinct vibe. Artistic Director Jennifer Gartley says, “We want to bring great music to places people are already going; a bar, an art gallery or museum, as well as more traditional venues like the Sheldon Concert Hall. Our fans get to explore their city, enjoy a drink and great music all in one night. It’s proven to be a very successful format.” Executive Director Dana Hotle says, “Our audience ranges from classical music superfans, to people who’ve never seen someone play the violin in person. It’s very exciting to get that mixture. We work hard to make sure our concerts are inviting to all kinds of people. We strive to create a very modern concert experience, one that blends the music of the past with music by living composers. We focus a lot on underrepre-

sented composers in classical music. Women composers and composers from underrepresented racial, ethnic, or cultural heritages make up nearly 50 percent of our programming, which is significantly higher than classical industry norms - hovering near 5-10 percent. Our audience trusts us that we are going to share with them music that will move them, even if they’ve never heard of the composer.” In October, Chamber Project presents two events that are linked. On Oct. 3, 7 – 8 p.m. there will be a Very Open Rehearsal at the Thornhill Branch of the St. Louis County Library. Musicians will rehearse a piece by Florence Price in preparation for the concert the following week. Audience members are invited to be a part of the moderated rehearsal by asking questions. Free. On Oct. 11 at 7:30 p.m., Chamber Project presents RESILIENT at projects+gallery in the Central West End. Often, the lens we use to hear music changes with the passage of time. Despite early popularity, Mendelssohn was met with anti-semitism and denigration of his work. Though he was not regarded as a success during his lifetime, his work is now treasured. Growing up in the American South, Florence Price fought hard for her success in a country divided by race and deeply ingrained gender roles. Nearly 20 years after the heartbreaking tragedy of 9/11, local composers Cindy McTee’s Adagio provides us with a chance to respond, contemplate, and heal. Tickets and details at chamberprojectstl.org.

O’FALLON ON THE AIR O’Fallon TV is a labor of love for those behind the scenes of the city of O’Fallon’s 24-hour government access cable station By Brett Auten

O’Fallon has lots of things going for it. Not only is it the largest municipality in St. Charles County and seventh-largest in the state, but it regularly pops up on nation-and-state-wide “Best Places to Live,” and “Safest Places to Live,” lists year in and year out. Among its many hidden gems, O’Fallon boasts its own television network that inundates its viewers with information and good-hearted stories. CONTINUED PAGE 10

OCTOBER 2019 | CROSSROADS | 9

Photo courtesy city of O’Fallon In addition to airing various meetings and workshops hosted by the city, OFallon TV produces original contents as well .

O’Fallon TV is the city of O’Fallon’s 24-hour government access cable station. The mission of O’Fallon TV is to provide a window on local government for O’Fallon residents. The goal is to inform and educate viewers about city operations, programs, services and events that make O’Fallon a great place to live. O’Fallon TV is available on Charter Spectrum TV Channel 991, AT&T Uverse Channel 99, and live and on-demand on the Internet. Residents can stay up to date on government news by tuning into “O’Fallon Update,” a weekly information program shown at the top of each hour. “Energy” is a bi-monthly program that promotes healthy lifestyles and activities. The program features fitness tips for residents, health classes, high school sports, special park events, a community recreation guide, and arts programming. “O’Fallon Matters” informs viewers about the issues that directly impact their lives and community. The show features people, programs, events, and news that matter to our community. “The Scene” keeps citizens updated on neighborhood events and happenings in their community.

10 | CROSSROADS | OCTOBER 2019

The channel also airs cablecasts of meetings and workshops from the O’Fallon City Council, Planning and Zoning Commission, Board of Adjustment, Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council, O’Fallon Convention & Visitors Bureau, O’Fallon Veterans Commission, Senior Advisory Committee, Advisory Green Council, Parks Board, Public Works Commission and the O’Fallon Historic Preservation Commission.

“We have a really creative group who know a lot about everything going on. Internally, we will brainstorm or look into what other things people have turned us on to. When we get assignments, I know who exactly is best for it. They all have different skillsets and all are immensely talented.” ~Ken Snow

Photo courtesy city of O’Fallon The staff behind O’Fallon TV includes five full time and two part-time employees, all of which have been with the city for at least 10 years.

O’Fallon TV started in the early 1980s and is the only local government access channel that televises every meeting and workshop. During these meetings, a three-person crew mans the control

room where the five robotic cameras inside the city chamber are manipulated, the sound is tinkered with and the graphics and camera angles are all adjusted accordingly. “We are like a mini television network for the city,” Ken Snoe, O’Fallon’s Communications Manager, said. “We do everything a television network would do as far as gathering news.” The staff behind O’Fallon TV includes five full-time and two part-time employees, all of which have been with the city for at least 10 years. What you see on the television channel more than likely ends up on the O’Fallon TV YouTube page as well. “O’Fallon is a very vibrant community,” Snoe said. “Also, we believe that everyone has a story so we are always on the lookout for standout people.” Ideas for content can come from a variety of places, whether it is different news outlets or word of mouth around local establishments. “We have a really creative group who

know a lot about everything going on,” Snoe said. “Internally, we will brainstorm or look into what other things people have turned us on to. When we get assignments, I know who exactly is best for it. They all have different skillsets and all are immensely talented.” Joe Meier is one of the news producers for O’Fallon TV and has been at the job for 14 years. Meier said that the job has evolved along with technology. “The technology has allowed us to do so much, we’ve essentially doubled our output,” Meier said. “We have a really good production team that likes to reach out and tell people’s stories.” The team also keeps busy producing a large amount of internal content, whether it be for the police department, parks department, or human resources. “The people here care about O’Fallon,” Meier said. “We think it is one of the best places to live and we want to continue that.”

OCTOBER 2019 | CROSSROADS | 11

Always An Adventure

HONEY galore

Dale, one of our newer neighbors, sent out an invitation to a honey extraction party last week. Beekeeping runs in his family’s DNA, with at least three generations involved in the pastime; no doubt there are a few hives tucked away in the family tree. The invitation advised wearing older clothes if you wanted to help with the process, as the honey would wash out easily, but the propolis (bee glue) that the bees used to build and seal their hives was similar to tar. I spent the morning cutting brush, so I was well prepared in the grubby clothing department. A couple dozen people were at Dale’s place, with his family providing guidance and refreshments during the extraction process. Dale grew up in the Midwest, and his father’s and uncles’ beekeeping “hobby” expanded over the years to raising about 120 hives. Annual honey output was measured in tons. Dale and his siblings were the indentured servants to the business, though such child abuse didn’t seem to traumatize him in any way, but rather left him, and now his children, with affection for honey and the production thereof. In fact, the two hives set for honey extraction were tended to on Dale’s son’s property a number of miles away. Prior to this weekend’s event, Dale had used a shop vacuum to blow the bees off the honeyladen frames and brought them, mostly bee-free, to his house. Even still, numerous bees buzzed around the garage while we worked, wondering what would become of their summer’s labor. Guests got to learn the art of decapping the wax from the frames containing honeycombs with a heated knife (see photo). 12 | CROSSROADS | OCTOBER OCTOBER2019 2019

The now unsealed honeycomb frames were then loaded into a hand-cranked spinner. When cranked, the spinner generated enough centrifugal force to pull the honey off the frames, which then drained into a bucket below the spinner. The bucket was then emptied into a cheeseclothcovered strainer, which removed any leftover wax, bee parts or other impurities. The honey was then dispensed into quart jars, with each guest getting a jar of their own for their efforts. Dale expected to get about 200 lbs. of honey from the two hives. One hive had produced significantly more honey than the other, for reasons unknown – a very typical situation. Despite all the knowl-

BY AVALANCHE edge and experience acquired by his family, no one really knew why some hives did well, and others failed to thrive. And sometimes, hives simply collapsed and died off for no apparent reason. Each hive typically contained 150,000 to 250,000 bees during the summer, with only tens of thousands remaining over the winter months, due to most bees working themselves to death, and unproductive bees being cast out of the hives before winter – a remarkably similar process to what occurs in corporate America. Keeping bees in our mountain environment is a bit different than down in the lower elevations. Bears are a constant problem here, especially as the frames fill with honey. Dale got talked into keeping his bees at his son’s house, since he had more acreage than his dad, and a single bear-repelling electric fence could protect both the hives and the son’s chicken coop. Winters are quite a bit harsher here, and the hives require more protection from the elements. As the afternoon wound down and guests began to head home with their jars of honey, more bees arrived in the garage, attracted to the smell of honey permeating the area. About two-thirds of the hive frames had been processed, with Dale and his family still working to finish the task. The only casualty was Dale’s daughter, who sustained two bee stings. It was a much more educational and enjoyable party than the typical weekend dinner-anddrinks get together, and it came complete with a souvenir jar of honey.

Moore On Life

Spicing it up BY CINDY MO

ORE

IT’S OCTOBER. Fall is falling

and with it the pumpkin spice flavor and fragrance is in full swing. Aroma and taste aficionados have been impatient throughout the sweltering summer waiting for it to arrive in their lattes and air fresheners.

But hold off enthusiasts of the fat orange squash’s perfume; coffee and candles are so last year. This season something new has jumped on the bandwagon: a fat, meaty-like, gelatinous substance. No, not Kim Jong Un. I’m talking spiced ham, a.k.a SPAM, has joined the pumpkin spice craze. Yes, it appears that the jelly-like, pig by-product is trying to gain popularity; apparently by rescheduling peace talks with Trump, but enough about Kim, back to SPAM. Give the marketers credit. How else could they “spice” up their product’s

declining image? By joining the popular pumpkin spice movement and making it appeal to a new younger crowd, of course. It was either that or give it a tattoo and provocative piercing. But seriously, this is going a tad overboard. However, SPAM isn’t the only thing which believes a little autumnal tang could improve things. Here are a few more bizarre items signing on: BATH BOMBS – Makes soaking in a tub so luxurious; as an added bonus it produces a vat of spicy potable bathwater you can sip on for days afterwards. FACE MASK – Afterwards carve a toothy jack-o-lantern image into your mask and scare children off your porch when you run out of trick-ortreat candy.

DEODORANT – Such a great idea. Now when embarrassing body odor strikes, a whiff of sweaty old pumpkin bread is sure to detract those annoying sniffers nearby. KALE CHIPS – Because marketers gave up trying to promote them as a healthy, wholesome superfood. When that failed, it was either roll them in sugar or infuse them with pumpkin spice. PET FOOD – Now when Fido drags his rear end across the carpet, it will leave a lovely pumpkin spice trail as well as a permanent orange smear. So gear up your nose holes and taste buds; the great pumpkin is rolling across the country bringing joy and happiness. A word of advice for that North Korean dictator: a little dab of pumpkin spice behind the ear lobes just might do wonders for your image as well. OCTOBER 2019 | CROSSROADS | 13

Automobile Alley

2 0 1 9

ecent “seat time” with the all-new 2019 Lexus UX 250h Hybrid left such an impression it proved to me that Toyota’s Premium Car Division has basically cracked the code for producing hybrids with smooth and seamless driving capabilities. It’s no secret that some hybrids tend to have “herky-jerky” drive characteristics while the gas engine cycles on and off during the hybrid operation, in order to save on fuel. It’s been a real sticking point in the past as consumers would rather experience a seamless transition with this rolling technology. This newest addition to Lexus offers the brand’s innovative luxury and safety, in a single package that combines extraordinary new design elements and efficient new powertrains. The starting Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) will be around $32,000 for the UX 200 front-wheel-drive gasoline version, with its 2.0-liter engine. It’s matched with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Their UX 250h Hybrid reflects a starting MSRP of $34,000. It will also have increased power over the gas version and better fuel efficiency overall. All-wheel-drive is also standard with the 250h. This hybrid system is their fourth generation of hybrid technology and for the curious, the UX name is derived from the design team’s vehicle mission of being a creative urban explorer. Thus, 14 | CROSSROADS | OCTOBER 2019

LEXUS UX 250H HYBRID

is a leap forward in the compact luxury crossover segment

Urban + X-over (crossover) results in UX. Infused with dynamic attitude, the ‘19 Lexus UX is engineered to deliver quick and engaging driving with a Lexus-smooth demeanor, making it a unique entry in its crossover segment. Target buyers are young motorists who seek not only what’s new and contemporary, but exciting as well. This is all coupled with what’s relevant to their lifestyles. The UX is the first Lexus constructed on their new global architecture compact platform. It’s developed with a lightweight yet rigid structure, extremely low center of gravity and refined suspension tuning. This contributes to exemplary handling agility and ride comfort, along with a distinctive driving personality. The UX is a leap forward in the compact luxury crossover segment. Crisp, prominent sculpted surfaces and dramatically flared front and rear fenders reflect this robust inspiration with an aerodynamic profile. Large wheels pushed to the corners and an impressive front fascia create the agile, sporty stance. It’s featured with a signature three dimensional unique grille. The LED daytime running lights arranged in an arrowhead configuration above the headlights complement the Lexus L-shaped lighting signature. The full-width rear lights project a distinctive nighttime trademark formed by a sequence of 120 LED lights. Wheel arch moldings pro-

tect the body from flying gravel from the tires and use airflow over their edges to reduce turbulence. The factory’s wing-type spoiler at the rear edge of the roof along with a flat underbody contribute to vehicle quietness, fuel efficiency and aerodynamics. The car’s “wow-factor” interior has luxury abound. Materials and workmanship are pure Lexus, combined with the traditions in craftsmanship and comfortable seating hospitality. Critical vehicle functions are grouped around the driver’s side of the cabin, and the seatback shape allows the driver to operate them while maintaining a comfortable, natural posture. The instrument panel design combines exclusive traits and intuitive technology. When it comes to safety enhancements, honestly they’re far too many to list. Some of the more notable ones are: newly-developed second–generation run flat 18-inch tires, rigid body design for improved crash protection, ten airbags, pre-collision safety system with pedestrian detection, all-speed dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure alert with steering assist, electronic lane tracing assist and automatic road sign reading/interpretation assist. The five-passenger Lexus UX model is positioned in the luxury subcompact category. It’s also sold in their F-Sport trim packaging.

Entertainment

CLASSIC SITCOMS THAT MADE IT TO THE BIG SCREEN BY STEVE BRYAN

he TV medical comedy-drama “M*A*S*H” was based on Richard Hooker’s novel “MASH: A Novel About Three Army Doctors.” It became a major motion picture before starting a long run on CBS. It’s easy to find reruns of the series on cable and broadcast stations available via antenna. The 1983 spin-off series “AfterMASH” didn’t fare as well, however. What happens, though, when popular sitcoms become feature films? The results are hit-or-miss. Look, for instance, at “The Brady Bunch Movie,” which sprang from the series about a man named Brady who married a lovely lady and created a blended family. The first film was popular enough to spawn “A Very Brady Sequel,” which saw the arrival a man claiming to be Carol Brady’s long-lost first husband. The Brady clan was welcome in theaters, but the same can’t be said for “Bewitched.” The television series focused on Samantha (Elizabeth Montgomery), a witch who marries the very mortal Darrin Stephens (played by Dick York and then Dick Sargent). The humor came from the clash of the magical and human worlds and how the loving couple

coped with it. Agnes Moorehead played Samantha’s mother, a witch who had no patience with Darrin’ mortal nonsense. On the way to the big screen, though, the humor magically disappeared. 2005’s “Bewitched” was intended as a parody of the original series. Will Ferrell played Jack Wyatt, an actor slated to play Darrin Stephens in a remake of the sitcom. Nicole Kidman played Isabel, a witch and unknown actress cast as Samantha. Even with Nora Ephron on board as director, co-writer and producer, “Bewitched” could not enchant moviegoers. In its first TV season, “The Beverly Hillbillies” delivered a sly commentary on modern life. Buddy Ebsen played Jed Clampett, a mountain man whose property is full of oil. Relatives of the suddenly wealthy Jed encourage him to take his daughter Elly Mae (Donna Douglas) to California so she can find a husband.

Jed’s mother-in-law Granny (Irene Ryan) and the sixth-grade graduate Jethro Bodine (Max Baer, Jr.) come along on the journey. The pilot episode is full of sly, risqué humor that pushed the boundaries of family comedy. Two decades after the show left the air, Penelope Spheeris directed the big screen adaptation of “The Beverly Hillbillies” with a cast that included Jim Varney, Lily Tomlin and Dabney Coleman. Even with that talent, the series just didn’t translate well into a motion picture. Next month, “The Addams Family” makes a reappearance in theaters as a 3-D computer animated feature. In 1991, the live-action adaptation of the classic sitcom featured Raul Julia as Gomez Addams, the patriarch of the family who adored his wife Morticia (Anjelica Huston). The dark humor of the first film made it a box office success, but the sequel, “Addams Family Values,” didn’t fare as well. Here’s hoping the animated version makes a longer-lasting impression on audiences.

OCTOBER 2019 | CROSSROADS | 15

For the Love of Food

A CREATIVE

twist ON

HALLOWEEN CARVINGS W

hen it comes to Halloween, carving the same pumpkin designs each year can become routine. This year, save a pumpkin and carve your spooky masterpiece into a watermelon instead. Nutrient-rich watermelon can be a healthy alternative to other sweet treats full of added sugar during Halloween festivities as it’s a source of vitamins A and C as well as the antioxidant lycopene and the amino acid citrulline. Because they are made up of 92% water, watermelons can be an effective way to stay hydrated during trick-or-treating, and creations like a Mummy or Jack O’Melon can help satisfy sweet cravings while keeping friends and family members frightfully delighted.

To get started, consider these carving tips and tricks: • To make cutting and slicing easier, the watermelon should be at room temperate when carving. • Cut a small, thin, flat piece from the bottom of the watermelon to provide a stable base for carving. • Draw the design on the watermelon rind with a dry-erase marker before cutting. If you make a mistake, this can make it easier to wipe off. • Use a sharp knife with a pointed tip for easier, cleaner cuts. Consider a paring knife with a smaller tip for ease of detail. • Blend scraps of watermelon that are too messy for dicing or slicing to create an easy juice. For more watermelon carving ideas, visit watermelon.org.

Jack O’Melon Supplies and Tools:

Directions:

Knife

Using knife, cut thin slice from bottom of watermelon to provide stable base.

Round watermelon Melon baller Dry-erase marker Toothpicks (optional) Battery-operated light

Cut circular piece of rind from top of watermelon big enough to reach into and remove flesh. Carefully remove top section and reserve for use as “lid.” Remove flesh from inside watermelon using melon baller, reserving melon balls for snacking. Hollow out remaining watermelon flesh and use blender to juice scraps and excess juice. Using dry-erase marker, draw outlines of eyes, nose, mouth, hair, ears and other features on side of watermelon. If mistake is made with marker, wipe off using paper towel to start over. Following outlines, carve features into watermelon and remove excess rind. Safe, battery-operated light can be firmly placed inside watermelon to provide haunting glow. Place circular piece of rind back on top of watermelon.

16 | CROSSROADS | OCTOBER 2019

For the Love of Food

Mummy Supplies and Tools: Watermelon Cutting board Kitchen knife Dry-erase marker Paring knife Melon baller Scoop Vegetable peeler Cheesecloth or gauze Straight pin (optional) Battery-operated candle or light Small bowl Blueberries or bloody candy eyes Toothpicks, pins or glue Directions: Wash watermelon under cool running water and pat dry. On cutting board, place watermelon on its side and use kitchen knife to cut off 1/4-1/2-inch of rind from bottom to provide sturdy base, being careful not to cut too deep into white part of rind. Cut 1-2 inches from stem end to create opening for bowl to be added. Using dry-erase marker, draw eyes, nose and

mouth, along with wavy slits around carving. Use paring knife to cut them out, being sure to cut through to red flesh to let more light flow through. Use melon baller to hollow out inside of watermelon. Reserve watermelon balls. Use scoop to remove remaining watermelon. Using vegetable peeler, remove green skin off outside of watermelon, similar to peeling cucumber.

Wrap thin strips cheesecloth or gauze around mummy carving and secure with straight pin, if needed. Place battery-operated candle or light inside carving and fit small bowl into top of carving. Trim away excess rind to make bowl fit securely. Fill bowl with melon balls. Attach candy eyes or blueberries using a toothpicks, pins or glue.

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Advertiser Profile

Wentzville EDC Business Spotlight Pezzimenti’s Café is located at 1798 Mall Parkway. It is a locallyowned family-friendly restaurant owned by Chris Pezzimenti and Megan Pilla. The restaurant opened in December 2014. Chris and Megan started the restaurant to provide a non-chain alternative along Corporate Parkway. All of the menu items are “made from scratch” with no preservatives. Several of the menu items were brought to the U.S. by Chris’ grandmother who immigrated from Italy. The restaurant makes their own dough and roasts their own meat. If you want a pizza-made the true Italian way-this is your place. New menu items are coming in October, including the Pezzimenti calzone. If you want great food in a family environment, this is the restaurant for you. Come visit. Phone is (636) 887-2739.

Top RV dealers work together to ensure quality customer service By Russ Patton, owner of Byerly RV Buying an RV can be a kind of investment, although the returns are mostly intangible; they include fun, family adventures, exploring and creating memories. To the first time buyer all RVs can look alike; but like quality and reputation, the challenge is to find the right balance. Successful dealers have been able to find this balance. The most popular and respected brands usually are represented by longtime established dealers. But there is no shortage of brand names to go around. When the RV business rebounds everybody wants to be an RV dealer. Successful RV dealers have also learned that “sales” are only one element to prosperity. Successful dealers invest in people and facilities to serve their customers after the sale. This builds repeat business. The top tier of dealers are involved in efforts that promote the entire industry, not just their own businesses. Most local dealers are members of the local, state and national associations, which promote education, regulations and events to assure customer satisfaction and a positive image. Priority RV Network* is nationwide group of the top RV dealers in the country. Priority RV is a network of over a hundred locations dedicated to offer priority service to its members’ customers while they are in the road. As a group they sell more RVs than any other collection of dealers, even the ones that spend so much on advertising. Priority RV Network is the quiet one who doesn’t spend money on advertising, but just takes care of customers. The network is a corporation owned by independent dealers organized to serve as well as sell. Members are invited to join the network based upon performance and reputation. Usually only one dealer is selected in a major market area. Byerly RV, Eureka, Missouri is the Priority dealer in the St. Louis market. Byerly is a family and employee owned company which was founded in 1948. Consistently, the number one motorhome dealer and frequently one or two in towable sales, Byerly is truly the Center of the RV World. Check Worth the out at www.byerlyrv.com and www.prioriDrive tyrvnetwork.com.

Community Calendar

OCTOBER 4 – “Rec-or-Treat” Kids are encouraged to wear their costumes to Rec-orTreat, a family-friendly and free event from 6 – 8 p.m. at O’Fallon’s Renaud Center. Come ready to bounce in one of several inflatables, partake in spooky activities, choose from balloon artists’ creations, play games, make a spooky snack with Chef Tim, vote for your favorite decorated pumpkin and be prepared to meet Elsa, Captain America and Baby Shark! Admission and activities are free to all. The Renaud Center is located at 2650 Tri Sports Circle in O’Fallon. See event details at www.renaudcenter.com/recor-treat.

7 – Child Health Day 9 – Leif Erikson Day 11 – Drone Zone Bring your drone or unmanned aircraft systems to the Youth Activity Park (YAP) in Dardenne Prairie for a morning of flying and obstacle course fun at Drone Zone, a new program hosted by the St. Charles County Parks and Recreation Department! The YAP is located at 7801 Highway N and will be open from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., for drone users only. To participate, drone users must complete and submit a Special Use/ Drone Permit prior to entering the park. The program is free and open to spectators of all ages; registration is not required. For more information about the Special Use/ Drone Permit and the approval process, call the park at 636-561-4964.

13 – Navy Birthday 14 – Columbus Day 16 – Boss’s Day 18 – Food Truck Fright Head to Dames Park for Food Truck Fright. This Halloween-inspired event will feature live music from JD Hughes as he plays around a campfire. Admission and parking are free. For $5 you can get s’mores and a hayride around the park. Dames Park is located at 389 Dames Park Drive in O’Fallon. Some of the area’s best food trucks will offer a variety of food and beverages for purchase. For the most up-to-date information, check out www.ofallon.mo.us/ food-truck-frenzy. For weather-related event information, call 636-379-5614.

19 – Sweetest Day 31 – Halloween

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