CrossRoads: February 2015

The sweet smell of

Romance

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CROSSROADS | FEBRUARY 2015

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FEBRUARY 2015 contents

VOL 12 | NO 1

Departments

Published monthly with direct mail circulation to Wentzville and Lake Saint Louis, plus newsstands in Troy.

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Around Town Local news and events

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Always an Adventure Do the right thing

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Moore on Life Pillow talk

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Publisher Bob Huneke

Health & Wellness Influenza insight: Prevention is the best medicine

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Editor Mathew DeKinder

Business Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce

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Production Manager Rebecca Brockmann

Entertainment ‘Cheers’: A show that welcomed new beginnings

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Contributors Avalanche, Robin Daniels, Val Joyner, Tony Mathews, Cindy Moore, Russ Patton

Food Make your winter party POP

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Photographer Ray Rockwell

Photo Op Eagle watching along the river

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Community Calendar February

Staff Writer Brett Auten

features

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By Erica K. Fiore

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

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The sweet smell of romance Local florists gear up for hectic arrival of Valentine’s Day By: Brett Auten

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Copyright 2015 Huneke Publications, Inc.

Advertiser Profiles Family to family, the RV connection

By Russ Patton

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.

Nonprofit Profile Kiwanis Club of West St. Charles County reaches out all year long

What is a credit score?

By Robin Daniels

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LifeWorks gives small businesses a leg up

By Brett Auten

On the Cover: Photo by Ray Rockwell

FEBRUARY 2015 | CROSSROADS

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Around Town

SCC and SEMO sign articulation agreement for business program Officials from Southeast Missouri State University and St. Charles Community College signed an articulation agreement on Dec. 10 to promote a seamless transfer for business students.

The agreement provides students who have earned an Associate of Arts or Associate of Applied Science degree in business administration at SCC the opportunity to complete a bachelor’s degree in business at Southeast Missouri State University.

Any student who has earned an Associate of Arts or Associate of Applied Science degree in business administration at SCC, and adheres to the transfer guidelines, is guaranteed SEMO will accept designated freshman and sophoPhoto courtesy St. Charles Community College more education credits and all general education credits (From left) John Bookstaver, Ph.D., SCC dean of business, science, education, math and computer science; Chris Breand will apply them to the bachelor’s degree in a manner itmeyer, SCC vice president for academic and student affairs; Ron Chesbrough, Ph.D., St. Charles Community College Kenneth Dobbins, Ph.D., Southeast Missouri State University president; and Charles McAllister, Ph.D., Southconsistent with the transfer guidelines. Students have the president; east Missouri State University associate professor of accounting. opportunity to complete their Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree at SEMO online.

Bookstaver, SCC dean of business, science, education, math and “This agreement offers SCC students who transfer from to South- computer science. “We can only hope for many more fruitful coleast Missouri State University a great opportunity,” said John laborations between our two fine institutions.”

County’s new emergency radio communications system launched Build out of St. Charles County’s new emergency radio communications system is complete, and as of Jan. 6 nearly all of the county’s first responders are on the new system.

“The implementation of this project, and the system itself, represents a significant transformation in public safety and demonstrates the power and benefits of cooperation,” said County Executive Steve Ehlmann.

“The county and its 20 jurisdictions have worked tirelessly over the last several years to see it to fruition and I would like to thank and recognize everyone for their hard work and dedication.”

The county’s new system is part of a larger system being implemented concurrently in both St. Louis and Jefferson counties, increasing the capability of the entire metropolitan St. Louis area in responding to major disasters. During December 2014 and January 2015, first responders and jurisdictions throughout the county moved onto the new system and are able to communicate with each other for the first time. The new system also provides better coverage and

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CROSSROADS | FEBRUARY 2015

voice clarity, improving the level of service to residents. Before, first responders and municipalities operated their own separate systems, which had coverage gaps, poor voice quality in some areas, were becoming obsolete, and the majority of which could not be modified to meet Federal Communications Commission (FCC) mandates that went into effect at the beginning of 2013.

Users on the system include the St. Charles County Police Department, St. Charles, St. Peters, Wentzville, all 11 fire and ambulance districts and St. Charles County Dispatch and Alarm, as well as the St. Charles County Highway Department and County Park Rangers. St. Charles County is the first of the three counties to implement the system, with Jefferson County expected to launch at the end of January.

“This is an exciting time because, no matter where our officers are in the county, they have significantly improved radio coverage and voice clarity and will soon be able to communicate with all first responders in the county to help the public faster and more efficiently,” said St. Charles County Po-

lice Chief David Todd. “The new system fills the gaps in coverage throughout the county that previously prevented first responders and agencies from communicating with each other.”

The radio system and towers, including maintenance, was projected to cost the county $39.5 million and it is coming in at that amount. Funding for the system was provided by a $24.3 million bond issue and increase in the County’s Capital Improvements Sales Tax approved by county voters in August 2009 and down payments from the Capital Improvement Sales Tax and the Dispatch and Alarm Fund. In addition, $9.7 million in federal funding authorized by the St. Louis Area Regional Response System (STARRS) program in the East-West Gateway Council of Governments, funded a key component of the multi-county system. The county began work in 2011 with Motorola Solutions to engineer the 12-site tower design for the system. Testing of the equipment at Motorola’s headquarters from June 24-26, 2013, was successful and all 12 tower sites were completed as of March 2014.

Around Town

Cuivre River Electric awards $5,000 for Honor Flight journeys Veterans Coffee Talk of Troy recently received a $5,000 Operation Round Up grant to help transport local veterans on their Honor Flight journey to Washington, D.C. Local veterans on the flight, the last trip scheduled for 2014, included John Cheek, U.S. Marine Corps, of Elsberry; Lester Koelling, U.S. Marine Corps, of Eolia; Terry Mayberry, Darrel Schlichting, Max Simon, all U.S. Army, of Troy; Donald Shelton and Raymond Marti, U.S. Navy, of Troy, Dwight McCluney, U.S. Air Force of Troy and Leon Cochran, U.S. Army of Warrenton.

“The trip to our nation’s capital was incredible. The design of each monument honoring the different wars was distinctive and magnificent,” says Cheek. “Words cannot describe the emotions a veteran experiences as they visit a monument honoring their military service and personal sacrifice for freedom. I will never forget this opportunity.”

“We were gratified to learn that four World War II veterans were also on the flight,” says Cuivre River Operation Round Photo Courtesy Cuivre River Electric Cooperative Up Coordinator Lonnie Tucker. He presented the grant on (From left) Operation Round Up Coordinator Lonnie Tucker presents a $5,000 Operation Round Up grant to behalf of Cuivre River members and Veterans Coffee Talk Flight Director Steve Paulsell, Logistics Manager Sharon Paulsell and Volunteer Coordinator Jan Bell, all of the to Central Missouri Honor Flight volunteers at the Honor Central Missouri Honor Flight. Funds will help send local veterans to Washington, D.C. memorials that honor their service and sacrifices.

Flight “Welcome Home” celebration for local veterans, flight ans when Honor Flights resume in the spring. guardians and volunteers in Columbia.

Flights are funded by donations from individuals, corporations and America’s most senior veterans — survivors of World War II — and terminally ill veterans who wish to visit memorials that honor their groups like Veterans Coffee Talk, which has facilitated trips for 75 service are top priorities for the Honor Flight program. The long- veterans. “We are committed to finding the financial resources to term goal is to also serve veterans of the Korean War, Vietnam War fulfill our veterans’ dreams to visit their memorials,” says Kiesey.

He invites veterans to attend the Veterans Coffee Talk social event and recent conflicts. Twenty-four Korean War veterans and 41 Vietheld every Thursday from 9 - 10 a.m. at the Troy Senior Center, lonam veterans were also on the recent Honor Flight.

“Many veterans have never seen the national memorials built in cated at 1380 Boone Street in Troy. World War II and Korean War their honor. It’s our mission to ensure our local American heroes get veterans are invited to apply for future Honor Flight programs as this opportunity,” says Veterans Coffee Talk Director Roger Kiesey. well as have their life stories recorded for Coffee Talk’s Missouri VetIn partnership with Coffee Talk, Cuivre River’s Operation Round Up erans History Project. To learn more about these programs or Cofgrant will be able to fund flights for an additional seven local veter- fee Talk contact Roger Kiesey at 636-528-7935.

www.pbtc.net FEBRUARY 2015 | CROSSROADS

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Around Town

Sweet Celebrations celebrates 100th birthday party Sweet Celebrations, a volunteer-led nonprofit organization that throws birthday parties for homeless children, recently hosted its 100th birthday party. The recipient of the unique St. Louis Blues cake was a young girl at Youth In Need, a non-profit child and family services agency headquartered in St. Charles, Mo. Sweet Celebrations was founded in 2013 by Beth Brockling, who provides personalized birthday parties for homeless children at nine shelters in the St. Louis area. Brockling is a volunteer at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri.

“This is a huge accomplishment for Sweet Celebrations, which has quickly grown over the past year and achieved 501(c) (3) tax exempt non-profit organization status,” said Brockling. “We have had lots of success stories this year, and donations are being made by many local businesses to support our mis-

Submitted photo This St. Louis Blues cake was part of the 100th birthday party thrown

by Sweet Celebrations.

sion.” Brockling added that Sweet Celebrations continues to recruit for cake donors, as well as delivery volunteers, to help with the organization’s rapid expansion.

For more information about the organization or to volunteer, call 314-537-9856 or visit the website at www.sweet-celebrations.org.

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St. Charles wins 2014 St. Charles County Elected Officials Bell Ringing Challenge

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CROSSROADS | FEBRUARY 2015

Dardenne Prairie Mayor Pam Fogarty challenged all of the elected officials of St. Charles County to ring bells this year to benefit the Salvation Army. Five cities participated in this first ever contest: Lake St. Louis, O’Fallon, St. Peters, St. Charles and Submitted photo Dardenne Prairie.

(From left) Bill Hennessey, O’Fallon Mayor; Pam Fogarty, Dardenne Prairie Mayor; Sally Faith, St. Charles All of the revenue Mayor and Len Pagano, St. Peters Mayor display the 2014 Elected Officials Bell Ringing Trophy. raised, $4,190.62, or Sally Faith with the traveling 2014 Electwill provide essential services to those in need in St. Charles ed Officials Bell Ringing Trophy to display in County. The Salvation Army Majors Paul St. Charles City Hall until the 2015 Elected Ferguson and Ron Key praised and thanked Officials Bell Ring Challenge. Mayor Faith all of the participating cities and elected of- and council members John Hanneke and Rod Herrmann rang bells for St. Charles and ficials for their successful bell ringing.

Major AmyJo Ferguson announced St. raised $1,486.25 in their Salvation Army Red Charles City the victor and presented May- Kettle.

Nonprofit Profile

Kiwanis Club of West St. Charles County reaches out all year long

By Erica K. Fiore Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time. Our members develop youth as leaders, build playgrounds and raise funds for pediatric research. We help shelter the homeless, feed the hungry, mentor the disadvantaged and care for the sick.

Locally, the Kiwanis Club of West St. Charles County serves the kids of Wentzville, Lake Saint Louis and Dardenne Prairie by sponsoring many fundraisers and service projects throughout the year.

Our local chapter meets for lunch every Wednesday at noon at

Rizzo’s Italian Restaurant on Wentzville Parkway.

When you give a child the chance to learn, experience, dream, grow, succeed and thrive, great things happen. We would like to invite you, and hope you accept, to join us for one of our meetings or projects. For more information about Kiwanis or our club please visit www.wscckiwanis.org or contact our President Bill Cunningham at 636-639-2051 or email wscckiwanis@gmail.com. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook!

Our Major Events Include: • Annual trivia night • Annual golf tournament • Annual prayer breakfast

We Have Provided Support To:

Kiwanis members Joni Marren, Erica Fiore, Mike Dinello, Amanda Werremeyer, Rob Hussey, John Schneider, Rich Johns & Bill Cunningham at Peanut Day.

Kiwanis members accept a check donation from Sam’s Club.

• Tri-County YMCA • Marine Corps – Law Enforcement Foundation • The Covering House • Calvary West Church Backpack Program • The Child Center • Noah’s Ark Academy • Friends of Wentzville Parks • Disabled Athlete Sports Association • Crisis Nursery • Special Olympics

Rich Johns, Bob Thompson and Jon Parmentier at the Kiwanis Annual Pancake Breakfast at Holt High School’s Back to School Fair.

• Numerous College Scholarships • Local Youth Sports Teams • American Legion Auxiliary • Fellowship of Christian Athletes • Adopt-A-Family • Holt and Liberty High School Key Clubs • Salvation Army • Local Eagle Scout Candidates • Wentzville School District Biomedical Sciences Program

Kiwanis members at the Christmas Parade with the Holt High School and Liberty High School Key Clubs.

Photos submitted by Kiwanis Club of West St. Charles County

FEBRUARY 2015 | CROSSROADS

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Always An Adventure

Do the right thing The officers left the shift meeting and went Sally sat on the bench for a moment and hours from 3:00 a.m. until 5:00 a.m., when out on patrol. “Have you seen Sally the bar- tears started rolling down her face, followed people just like her were sitting in their tender lately?” one asked the other. “Yeah,” by sobbing. “I know,” was her only reply. apartments, jacked up on some substance the other replied, “she looks like hell. She’s The first officer said to his partner, “Close and realizing that they had just snorted been doing a lot of blow. Hardly anything your eyes and cover your ears,” then turned away next month’s rent money. The comleft to her, just skin and bones.” Both the to Sally and ordered, “Empty out your pock- mercials were effective because they were officers thought of Sally’s formerly locally produced by people who had stunning physique, destroyed by been there, and were a far cry from Next time any drugs were found, her abuse of the Peruvian Marching some of the well-intentioned-but-idit would result in an arrest and a Powder. A self-inflicted crime against iotic anti-drug propaganda put out at humanity. Of course they’d seen trip to jail, not a ride to a quiet park. the national level. far worse before and would see far As her sobs subsided, Sally settled worse again. But in the small town down and asked with rising anxiety, the cops had a pretty good rapport “Now what?” The officers told her with the employees of the local washe needed to get help and get to retering holes, as they saw each other hab before she was dead. One officer frequently in the course of their researched her pockets and told her he spective jobs. After all, if it wasn’t for was going to search her and her purse booze and cocaine, there would be every time he saw her, until he was much less work for the constabulary. sure she was clean. Next time any It was if they were talking about a codrugs were found, it would result in worker. an arrest and a trip to jail, not a ride to Just two minutes later, the officers a quiet park. She was quite agreeable saw Sally walking down the block. On to that arrangement, and asked to use a lark, the driver pulled over and said, a phone and to meet with a friend “Hey, want to go for a ride?” Sally quickly ets!” In between the sobs that racked her who had recovered from an addiction years (too quickly) replied “Sure!!” and got in the body, Sally quickly pulled two packets of earlier. The officers drove her to a phone car. Idle chit-chat covered the next couple cocaine from her pockets. She held them and then to see that friend, spending the of minutes while the officer drove to a quiet out to the officer, seemingly glad to be rid of first part of their shift acting as babysitters. a little park with no one present. All three the stuff. The officer told her to dump it out Sally got on a plane a few days later back got out of the patrol car and walked over on the ground. She quickly complied, sprin- to her hometown to stay with Mom, and to a picnic bench. “What’s this all about, kling a couple hundred dollars’ worth of the found a good rehab program. It took her guys?” asked an increasingly worried and white powder on the ground. Still sobbing, two tours at the rehab center before she was twitchy Sally. “Well,” the driver said, “You she tore up the packets with great enthusi- able to stay clean and sober. look like hell. You’ve lost a ton a weight asm and threw the papers in the trash.

The officers didn’t talk to anyone else in and you probably haven’t slept for a week.

Sally began reciting the phone number for the department about their visit with Sally.

You’ve got a monkey on your back the size the local rehab center hotline. She knew They didn’t really want to face accusations of King Kong. We know you’re doing a lot of it from the public service announcements of tampering with evidence, accessory to a coke. Snorting that stuff is going to kill you.” played on the radio, especially during the crime, official misconduct and other procedural missteps.

Sally later wrote the officers a thank-you card, thanking them for saving her life.

They had done the right thing, and saved a life in violation of the law and department policies.

By Avalanche

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.

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CROSSROADS | FEBRUARY 2015

Moore On Life

Pillow Talk Love comes in many forms. Some people love to read, some adore their pets while others have a fondness for shoes.

Still others love to shop, or even cook (I have yet to figure that one out). My affection happens to come in the form of a pillow. Just ask my husband…he’s the one on the forklift muttering unprintable rants while dumping the first load of pillows from our bed as he tries to locate the mattress.

At last count, I had eleven pillows adorning our bed, plus two auxiliary ones in reserve for a total of thirteen.

Those two extras may be used as backup pillows, such as if a between-theknee pillow is required or one needed to prop up a behind-the-head pillow for reading.

“I don’t know why you need so many ding blasted pillows on this bed,” my husband blathers.

“They have a specific purpose,” I remind him. “For décor.”

“More like detour. I swear you’re trying to build a fort to keep me out.”

“False. They add warmth and invitation.”

“From the looks of it, you’re inviting the entire neighborhood over to sleep.”

“No, no. They are definitely not to sleep on.”

“Oh, I get it. Kind of like the decorator towels in the bathroom I get in trouble for using. How’s a person supposed to know?

What’s next?”

“Since you asked, I am working towards a decorator kitchen. Cute and nice to look at, but useless and without function.”

“I see, kind of like your Aunt Mildred?”

“Not funny. No. Kitchens are overrated and on their way out, kind of like your Uncle Willy. Besides, that’s what restaurants are for. I figure if God wanted me to cook he would not have invented takeout. My idea of the perfect kitchen is a big empty room with a microwave for the express purpose of warming up leftovers. Kitchens are useless to me.”

“Kind of like these pillows are useless.”

“Absolutely not. They have purpose.”

“And what might that be?”

“To look at, duh.”

“I’d like to look at a mattress and so far

that’s not happening. I counted up to nine pillows and I can’t lay my head on a single one,” he says as he finally reaches the blankets and crawls in. He hunkers under the covers about to drop his hairy head atop my lovely paisley-printed sham.

“STOP!” He freezes mid plop. His neck stiffens and wavers inches above the finely quilted cloth.

I rip the sham from beneath his quavering head. His skull drops with a thud like a sack of wet cement.

“What’d I do now?”

“For your uncivilized information, that is a sham?”

“What’s a sham?”

“Hello. That pillow is a sham and it’s not for sleeping on or getting nasty hair follicles on.

It’s for visual appearances only.”

“This whole thing is a sham. I need some sleep.”

He grabs a beaded satin pillow from the floor and lodges it between his knobby knees.

I gasp in revulsion while lunging forward.

“Oh no you don’t!” I say as I rip it away causing his knee bones to clink together.

“Come on, I need some padding. You know I can’t sleep with my knees touching.”

He grabs a silky round cushion donned with a poufy bow and rams it under his bean.

Choke!

I pounce again and save the delicate fabric from ruination by his sweaty head juices.

“Hey! I needed that to prop myself up and read.”

“I don’t think so. That’s what the auxiliary pillows are for,” I say reaching beneath the bed. I toss him an old war-torn replacement.

“So, you’re saying I’m not good enough for the fancy stuff and instead I get this mangy old dog?”

“Cat.” “Huh?” “That’s the one the cat sleeps on and you can’t tell his fur from your hair.”

“That does it. I need a new pillow. Go out and buy me a decent one tomorrow.”

A sparkle gleams in my eye. “Yes dear. I saw the sweetest pink chintz bolster with embroidered butterflies around it at Macy’s.

It has your name on it…but unfortunately, not your head. Nighty night.”

by Cindy Moore

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.

FEBRUARY 2015 | CROSSROADS

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The sweet smell of

Romance

Local florists gear up for hectic arrival of Valentine’s Day

By Brett Auten

V

alentine’s Day. The words alone bring up an array of feelings from recognizing the ones we love to a hurried obligation – and all places in between.

For those who work in the floral industry, Feb. 14 is their Super Bowl, their Game 7.

Beth Dunn opened her Wentzville store, Dunn’s Florist, 22 years ago and has accumulated 40 years in the

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CROSSROADS | FEBRUARY 2015

world of flowers. So, if anyone knows what Valentine’s Day is like on the other side of the counter, it’s Dunn.

“It’s a headache,” she said with a laugh.

“It’s a very big day. You have one day to get everything set.”

Preparation is the key. Vases, bows, you name it; it all needs to be ready for the rush.

“The week of it will start to go crazy with walk-ins and phones calls,” Dunn said.

Dunn is so on top of the preparation aspect that she ordered her roses for this Valentine’s Day last year as soon as the holiday ended. And how many roses does one order to prepare for such an important occasion?

“10,000,” Dunn said.

Dunn invests more than

just time and energy into the holiday. She rents out a tractor trailer and parks it in back of the shop to help house all of those roses.

“I’ll also hire extra drivers for the day,” Dunn said. “I’ll hire three-to-four times as many drivers. It’s a big holiday. Everything is more of.”

It’s more of, but with the exception of dollar bills. Dunn says the biggest misconception is that florists rake in the dough with all of those cash registers going off. But Dunn says that’s not the case.

“The bad thing about Valentine’s Day is that everybody thinks florists are reaping a huge profit. They’re not,” she said. “Wholesalers raise their prices more than any time of the year. What people have to pay for roses, they think that we’re making a killing. We have to pay more for everything.

Sometimes up to three times as much.”

Cathy Kohenskey got into the flower business 12 years ago.

Her shop, Warrenton’s A Moment of Grace, is the typical hive of activity around the second week of February.

“It’s complete chaos,” Kohenskey said. “It’s organized chaos but I do love it.”

Like most, Kohenskey has already sent the wheels in motion for this year’s Valentine’s Day. “We’ve started looking over the orders from last year,”

Koehensky said. “Our brains are already hard at work. People don’t know how much goes into it. It’s kind of like going to the dealership to buy a car. You don’t think about the assembly worker.”

While Kohenskey and her crew have been prepping for everything, from the smallest to the largest types of arrangements, they also have to be ready to improvise.

“If they see it on Pintrest, they want it,”

she said. “That’s probably the biggest change from five years ago; we look at a lot of phone pictures.”

Kohenskey thinks social media is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to changes in the flower business.

“Customers are better educated on the different types of flowers,” she said. “People know if someone has a favorite or meaningful flower so it’s not so red-roses-heavy

as it was.”

Photos by Ray Rockwell Top left: Beth Dunn, owner of Dunn’s Florist, stands behind the counter of her Wentzville store.

Top right: The Dunn’s Florist staff of (from left) Stacey Halleman, Beth Dunn, Carey Dunn, Carol Ogborn, and Wendy Pitman all help prepare for the Valentine’s Day rush.

Bottom left and right: Dunn’s Florist offers more than just flowers for those looking for a different Valentine’s Day gift.

Health & Wellness

Influenza insight: Prevention is the best medicine Influenza. It’s one nasty virus that no one ever wants. Hitting hard with a fever, body aches, chills, coughs and a nasty headache, the influenza virus is serious. In fact, every year approximately 36,000 people in the United States die from influenza. Another estimated 200,000 end up hospitalized with the virus.

Prevention is important.

“The influenza vaccination is a valuable tool against preventing the illness and it can potentially minimize symptoms if you get the illness,” said Mano Patri, MD, SSM DePaul Health Center infectious disease specialist. “The data shows that the influenza vaccine, good hand hygiene and minimizing exposure to others are the most important factors in avoiding the flu.”

When it comes to scheduling your vaccination each year, many doctors’ offices and pharmacies start offering the vaccine as soon as it is ready from manufacturers, usually in September. Health care providers keep vaccine supplies stocked through the peak of

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CROSSROADS | FEBRUARY 2015

the influenza season, which is generally from December to February. However, while seasonal flu outbreaks can happen as early as October, activity can last as late as May. Bottom line – it’s not too late to get a flu shot.

“It is important that you receive a vaccine every year because the influenza virus can notoriously change from year to year, and this year’s most common strain is slightly different than last year’s,” said Patri. “So to ensure you have the best protection possible, you want to get the vaccine every year.”

One popular myth surrounding the flu shot is that it can actually cause the flu. This is, in fact, not true and flu vaccines that are administered with a needle are currently made in two ways and neither can be infectious. However, aches, swelling and fever can be seen with the shot.

“If you get the flu after the vaccine, it can be a coincidence,” said Patri. “A person can be exposed to the virus before receiving the vaccine because the incubation period is from one to four days, so you can actually contract the virus and not experience any symptoms for a few days.”

Another reason you could contract the virus despite receiving the vaccine is that no vaccine is 100 percent effective and many strains circulate throughout the year. You might contract a strain that is not included in this year’s vaccine or variations of the strains in the vaccine can be circulating as was the case this year. While this means you could still catch this form of the virus, it doesn’t mean you should skip getting your flu shot. The vaccine can be protective as it can also help lessen the severity of your symptoms if you do catch the flu and prevent a stay in the hospital.

“As the weather gets cold more people are confined inside their homes and other buildings. This makes it easier to spread respiratory illness,” said Patri. “That’s why it’s especially important to cover coughs and sneezes, wash your hands or use hand sanitizer regularly and drink lots of fluids this time of year. And if you do become ill, make sure to stay home.”

While it can be tough to stay home when you’re sick, it is important. Germs can spread quite quickly in office and school settings.

Additionally, the extra rest and care you provide yourself at home will help you recover from symptoms of Submitted photo the influenza more Dr. Mano Patri quickly.

To summarize: There are ways to prevent the spread of influenza or other respiratory illnesses: • Avoid close contact with those you know who are sick.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

• Good hand hygiene • Try to cough or sneeze into your arm rather than your hand.

• Disinfect commonly touched surfaces at home, work and school like doorknobs, remote controls, counter tops and desks.

• Get plenty of sleep and remember to be physically active. Even just a 30-minute walk every day can help keep you healthy.

• Eat nutritious foods including lots of fruits and vegetables.

• Manage your stress with healthy habits like meditation.

Most of the recommended care for influenza is considered supportive. That means the care is to help minimize your symptoms.

This can include extra rest, fever reducing medications like Tylenol or Advil and extra fluids to keep you hydrated.

If you do catch the flu or have flu-like symptoms, contact your physician as medical treatment may be needed and antiviral medications may be indicated if diagnosed early. An antiviral medication is different for an antibiotic and antibiotics do not treat influenza.

Another benefit to anti-viral medications is that they can reduce the length of time of your symptoms and reduce your risk for serious influenza complications like pneumonia. People who are at higher risk for serious complications can be those people who have high-risk medical conditions such as asthma or COPD and the elderly.

If at any time you experience shortness of breath, chest pains, a prolonged or severe fever, vomiting or pain while swallowing, you should seek immediate medical care.

Advertiser Profiles

Family to family, the RV connection

By Russ Patton, owner of Byerly RV The colder it gets in January the more we imagine the adventures waiting for us in spring. Families emerge from brief hibernation to attend the RV Show and visit dealer’s lots.

The common theme is “family adventure.” And a common theme, at least on the Mississippi side of Missouri, is the family owned RV Dealership. The Midwest Gateway RVDA, sponsors of the St Louis RV Show, is a group of locally owned, family based businesses.

For instance, Byerly RV, is starting it’s 67th year in business. In 1967 John Patton purchased the company from Walter Byerly. Today participants in the company include many Pattons- Russ, Pete, Guy, Fran, and their spouses and children- Phyllis, Jay, Adrienne, Warren and Sarah! The theme even extends to other employees with multiple family members like, the Hawks, the Morgans, the Goetz and the Freses. But we also have adopted a lot of singles among our 46 fulltime employees.

Although the recent recession has created an opportunity for national consolidators to buy up weaker dealers or owners who want to retire, the dealers in eastern Missouri are survivors and intrepidly independent. There must be something about Missourians. Another

Photo courtesy Byerly RV

example is the grocery business. Not many major markets can boast about the dominance of local stores such as Schnucks, Dierbergs and Straubs. How is this possible? Local companies know their customers, support their communities and keep their money in Missouri.

For more information about Byerly RV see us on Facebook and visit us at www.byerlyrv.com. Byerly, Missouri’s largest Class A motorhome dealer and the largest independently owned towable RV dealer.

What is a credit score?

A credit score is a number assigned by credit reporting agencies based on information from your credit report. Similar to a test score, the higher the credit score, the better your credit. A good credit score shows that you have a high probability of repaying loans on time. Therefore, a good credit score gives you an advantage when it comes to taking out new loans as well as negotiating better interest rates.

Several factors play into determining your credit score: • Payment history - how often do you pay your bills and are they paid on time?

• Amount of debt - how much debt you owe?

• Length of credit history and types of credit - how often do you use your accounts and how many accounts do you have open?

• New credit - how many recently opened accounts and recent credit inquiries are in your credit file?

• Utilization - the amount of available credit you use • Available credit - the amount of credit you have

All of these factors are weighted and combined to create your credit score, which can range from 300 to 850. When creditors look at your score, they check to see if you are a low- or high-risk borrower. A low-risk borrower is someone who most likely would repay their loans, while a high-risk borrower is someone who most likely will be unable to repay their loans on time.

Everyone is entitled to one free credit report each year and you can obtain yours by visiting www.annualcreditreport.com.

You can purchase your credit report, which can include your credit score, from one of the three credit reporting agencies: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. It is wise to perform an annual credit report review in order to help prevent becoming a victim of identity theft as well as to keep informed on where your credit score stands.

If your credit is in need of improvement, there are many ways to work on raising your score. The website www.ftc.gov has lots of

helpful advice in their Consumer section on how to improve your credit score properly.

It’s important to be aware of credit repair scams that promise to change your credit score or correct your credit report quickly.

These types of claims are false and can actually harm your credit score or often involve identity theft scams.

By Robin Daniels

Robin Daniels is Asst VP/ Secondary Market Manager for Peoples Bank & Trust Co. NMLS #408454 (636) 290-7272 www.pbtc.net

FEBRUARY 2015 | CROSSROADS

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Advertiser Profiles

LifeWorks gives small businesses a leg up

By Brett Auten people When a potential cliIt’s not quite magic, but the ent Google searches your adLifeWorks Business Center can dress do you want them to provide a bit of an illusion. see your house and neighborBased at WingHaven in hood? Do you even want cliO’Fallon, the LifeWorks Busients coming to your home?” ness Center is an extension of Since it launched in August, the home or corporate office 2006, who has taken advanbut the slight of hand takes tage of LifeWorks? Therapists, place when LifeWorks propsychiatrists, chiropractors, fivides its unique and profesnancial planners, tax services, sional environment and supon-line computer training report. sources, sales teams, lawyers, LifeWorks is much more than you name it. Basically anyone just office space in a building.

Photo by Ray Rockwell or any business interested in Tenants are able to access a Jill Migliazzo, central manager of LifeWorks Business Center. branching out from the tepid full range of business support home office environment. services, conference rooms, secLifeWorks offers 30 private offices that inThe name “LifeWorks Business Center” was retarial services, and state-of-the-art office clude technology and support available imequipment. mediately without the cost of build-out, ca- shaped after McEagle’s LifeWorks concept “We help give the appearance of being a bling, equipment purchases, and long-term the integration of home, work, and lifestyle large company if not more,” Jill Migliazzo, lease commitments (6, 12, or 24 month into a specific area.

“It is about living, working, and playing in center manager said. “We’re for anyone agreements). wanting that professional edge with low “We answer calls for an attorney in Clayton one community,” Migliazzo said. overhead and minimal out of pocket start and another in Florida,” Migliazzo said “The For more information visit www.lifeworksup.” virtual offices are still a little new to some businesscenter.com or call 636-755-2999.

Living Word 1/12

www.lwcs.us

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CROSSROADS | FEBRUARY 2015

www.mscwired.org

www.stcharlesconventioncenter.com

Business

Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce Serving Wentzville, Lake St. Louis, and Dardenne Prairie

Chamber hosts ribbon cutting for Heroes Pub & Grill The Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony for Heroes Pub & Grill in Lake St. Louis.

Heroes Pub & Grill is located at 760 Lakeside Plaza in Lake St. Louis. You can contact them at 636-281-4376 or visit them online at www. heroeslakestlouis.com. Join them for darts, daily drink specials, and great food.

The Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce serves Dardenne Prairie, Lake St. Louis, and Wentzville. The chamber is comprised of over 640 members. If you are interested in having a ribbon cutting at your

place of business please contact the chamber. To view pictures & video of these recent ribbon cuttings please visit our Chamber Facebook Page.

For more information please call the chamber office at 636-327-6914 or visit the chamber online at http://westernstcharlescountychamber.com.

By tony mathews

Tony Mathews is the President and CEO of the Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce

For more on any of this information or the chamber in general, please call the chamber office at 636.327.6914 or visit the website www.westernstcharlescountychamber.com.

Located at 210 South Linn Avenue in Wentzville.

Easter Progressive Dinner Party The Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce is having their second Progressive Dinner Party on March 22 from 2 - 7:30 p.m.

This dinner party’s theme is Easter Extravaganza! There will a fun adult Easter egg hunt at the end of the party! Tickets are only $25 and include food, drinks, party bus ride, and commemorative t-shirts. Only a very limited

amount of tickets will be sold and they will sell out fast, so get your group together and reserve your spots. You can call the WSCC Chamber Office to reserve your spots today at 636-327-6914. An itinerary for the evening can be found online at http://westernstcharlescountychamber.com.

Chamber donates $3,000 to the community The Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce was able to donate $1,500 to Operation Food Search and $1,500 to the Chamber Scholarship Fund after they successfully sold out all their 2014 Pay It Forward Raffle Tickets. With each raffle ticket sold the chamber donated a portion to help Operation Food Search in their effort to feed local children and families.

“I am so proud of our membership and residents who helped sell out our raffle tickets. It is because of them that we are able to donate $1,500 to Operation Food Search and $1,500 will go toward our Chamber Scholarships for

local students,” said Tony Mathews, President/CEO of the Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce. “On behalf of the chamber I thank Operation Food Search for all that they do and we plan on helping provide more for local families in the future.”

The Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce covers Dardenne Prairie, Lake St. Louis, and Wentzville. They are comprised of 600 local businesses and organizations. For more information please call 636-327-6914 or visit them online at http://westernstcharlescountychamber.com.

www.viperrocks.com

FEBRUARY 2015 | CROSSROADS

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Entertainment

“Cheers”: A show that welcomed new beginnings I found myself revisiting the iconic sitcom, which I haven’t seen since growing up in the late 80’s and early 90’s. Debuting on Sept.

30, 1982, Cheers is the name of the Boston bar owned and operated by ex-baseball player, Sam Malone (Ted Danson). Diane Chambers (Shelly Long) was his waitress and on-and-off flame, the brash Carla Tortelli (Rhea Perlman) was the experienced waitress, Ernie “Coach” Pantusso (Nicholas Colasanto) served as Sam’s fellow bartender and the dry-humored Norm Peterson (George Wendt) was the bar’s loyal customer who’s name everyone shouts (“Norm!”) every time he enters the saloon. Besides the show’s gift for natural laughter I’ve found myself particularly fascinated with the show’s ability to evolve its structure with new characters during its eleven-year run. It’s incredibly humbling to watch these new actors begin a new era in their careers that began with “Cheers.”

CLIFF CLAVIN, the USPS worker: John Ratzenberger, as Cliff, was around since the pilot, but only as a guest actor. After not getting the part of Norm during the show’s development, Ratzenberger asked the writers about having a “know-it-all” patron at the bar. With a quick improvisation, he impressed the producers. So, Cliff was created for him leading us to enjoy his catchphrase “little known facts.” He became

a regular by season two. You can recognize Ratzenberger’s infectious voice almost anywhere these days. For starters, he’s voiced a character in every Pixar movie - including Hamm, the piggy bank - in the “Toy Story”movies.

DR. FRASIER CRANE, the psychiatrist: Season three’s first episode was a historical beginning of the well-known character, Frasier, played by Kelsey Grammer. You can spot him in this episode blending in the background with the rest of the patrons.

He’s been sent on a mission from Diane to help Sam get out of his bad depression after an unfortunate break-up. It’s quite a moment when he finally comes out of the background to introduce himself to Sam. He was only meant to appear for this temporary story arc, but after two years of being a recurring character he became a regular by season five. Grammer holds the American actor’s record of playing the same character in a comedy series for twenty years – including the spinoff “Frasier.”

WOODY BOYD, the new bartender: It’s an absolute coincidence that Woody Harrelson’s character’s first name matches his own. Following the untimely death of Nicholas Colasanto, as the eldest character Coach, Woody – a farm boy from the Midwest - was created to replace Coach, sharing a similar brand of dim-witted but sweet humor as the show’s youngest character.

Watching Harrelson’s grand entrance at the start of season four is a “Cheers” highlight.

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It’s a funny and humbling scene (you’ll rejoice when he leaps over behind the bar!) and the beginning of a Hollywood superstar’s career. Woody Harrelson even won an Emmy for the show’s seventh season.

REBECCA HOWE, the new boss: Season six was the year of big changes for “Cheers.” After Shelly Long’s contract ended for season five, Kirstey Alley replaced her originally with a one-year contract as the new female lead, Rebecca Howe. She’s the new boss of the saloon and part of a corporation that bought the bar from Sam. Many of the show’s fans didn’t like her no-nonsense character until the writers noticed a positive response to Rebecca’s confessed feelings for her own boss. So they spruced up her character to be zany with a bit of neuroticism. Alley was more than up to the task and won fans over permanently.

She remained on the show until the end of the series and won an Emmy for season nine.

DR. LILITH STERNIN, Frasier’s flame (also a psychiatrist): Without Frasier, there would have been no Lilith, brilliantly played by Bebe Neuwirth. Lilith first appeared in one episode in season 4 as Frasier’s frigid date gone awry. Neuwirth’s gift of deadpan comic timing is probably what brought her back for the fifth season in one of the best love-declaring scenes (opposite Frasier) in the series. Neuwirth continued her guest-starring status soon as Dr. Lilith Sternin-Crane and finally became a regular by the eighth season. She won two consecutive Emmys for her performance.

By Brian GuerRero

Brian Guerrero is a former resident of Los Angeles and a current resident of New York City with extensive experience in front of and behind the camera for film and television.

For the Love of Food MAKE YOUR WINTER PARTY...

POP

As your winter schedule is sure to be packed with gatherings that bring family and friends closer, have plenty of treats that are gentle on the waist and wallet. Sweet, spicy, salty or with an Asian twist — any way you pop it — popcorn is a satisfying snack suitable for every chilly weather occasion.

Whether you’re hosting a game-day party or simply enjoying a family movie night, popcorn’s wholesome taste can take on a variety of flavors to please every guest. Plus, popcorn snacks are healthy and whole grain, which means they’re a more nutritious alternative to traditional party nibbles and noshes.

Cuddle up to these recipes and more by visiting www.popcorn.org.

Yield: 8 cups Ingredients: 6 cups popped popcorn 2 cups Oriental rice cracker mix 3 tablespoons butter or margarine 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1/2–1 teaspoon ground ginger (may vary to taste) 1/4–1/2 teaspoon sesame oil (may vary to taste)

Yield: 3 dozen truffles Ingredients: 5 cups air-popped popcorn 2 cups miniature marshmallows 1 tablespoon coconut oil or butter 1/2 cup shredded coconut 3 tablespoons candied ginger, minced Cooking spray 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate 1 teaspoon coconut oil or butter Directions: 1. Place popcorn in large bowl.

2. Place marshmallows and 1 tablespoon coconut oil or butter in medium saucepan

4. Allow to cool, serve or store in airtight container.

Asian Popcorn Medley

Ingredients: 1 tablespoon ranch dressing or dip mix (from 1-ounce package) 1 tablespoon seafood spice mix (or celery salt) 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon powdered sugar (or sugar) 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/4 teaspoon vegetable oil 6 quarts popped popcorn Cooking spray, optional Directions: In small bowl, blend ranch dressing mix, spice mix, garlic powder, powdered sugar and cayenne pepper. Sprinkle with vegetable oil and blend until well incorporated.

Place popcorn in serving bowl and

style plastic bag and seal.

Snip off tiny corner of bag.

9. Pipe chocolate on popcorn balls in decorative pattern.

10. Garnish with extra shred-

Yield: 3 quarts Ingredients: 3 quarts popped popcorn Butter-flavored cooking spray 9 tablespoons powdered cocoa mix (cocoa sweetened with sugar or sugar substitute) 3 teaspoons cinnamon

ded coconut and extra minced candied ginger, if desired.

11. Place truffles in cool place until chocolate is set.

Coconut-Ginger Popcorn Truffles

Cinnamon Chocolate Popcorn

Directions: 1. Put popcorn in large bowl and lightly spray with cooking spray.

2. Sprinkle cocoa mix and cinnamon on popcorn. Toss to coat evenly.

3. Spray and toss again until mixture is well coated.

4. Serve immediately.

5. Allow to cool, serve or store in airtight container.

Directions: 1. Preheat oven to 300°F. Mix popcorn and rice cracker mix together in large bowl.

2. In small microwave-safe bowl, microwave butter on high until melted, about 20 seconds. Stir in soy sauce, ginger and oil. Drizzle over popcorn mixture; toss.

3. Spread mixture on baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, stirring once.

Yield: 6 quarts, plus leftover seasoning mix

over medium-low heat. Stir until melted; remove from heat.

3. Stir in shredded coconut and candied ginger. Mix well.

4. Spray hands with cooking spray, then scoop up 1 tablespoon of popcorn mixture.

5. Roll mixture with hands to form ball. Place ball on baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Repeat to make 36 balls.

6. Place chocolate in small, microwave safe bowl. Heat in microwave on high for one minute, until melted. If not completely melted, microwave for another 15 seconds and stir again.

7. Stir 1 teaspoon coconut oil into melted chocolate.

8. Place chocolate in zipper-

spray lightly with cooking spray. Sprinkle seasoning mix over popcorn to taste and toss. Store leftover seasoning mix in airtight container for future use.

Blazing Buffalo Ranch Popcorn

Yield: 14 cups Ingredients: 10 cups popped popcorn 2 cups miniature pretzel twists (or another small pretzel shape) 1 cup pecans 1 cup peanuts 2 cups rice, wheat or corn cereal squares 1/2 cup butter (1 stick) 1/2 cup packed brown sugar 1/4 cup corn syrup 1/2 teaspoon baking soda Directions: 1. Preheat oven to 300°F. Place popcorn, pretzels, pecans, peanuts and cereal in very large bowl; set aside.

2. Heat butter, brown sugar and corn syrup in medium saucepan. Stir mixture over medium heat until it begins to boil. Boil 3 minutes without stirring. Remove from heat and stir in baking soda (mixture will foam).

3. Pour syrup over popcorn mixture in bowl and stir until evenly coated. Pour mixture onto large, rimmed baking sheet or roasting pan. Bake 30 minutes, stirring twice during baking time. Stir mixture a few times as it cools on baking sheet. Store in airtight container.

Sweet and Salty Popcorn Party Mix

FEBRUARY 2015 | CROSSROADS

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Photo Op

Eagle watching along the river Ray Rockwell ventured out to the Alton Visitors Center, by the channel in Hartford, IL and near Winfield, MO to get these spectacular pictures of bald eagles making their annual trek south.

Photos By Ray Rockwell

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CROSSROADS | FEBRUARY 2015

February:

Community Calendar

2 - Groundhog Day 7 - Trivia night The Kiwanis Club of West St. Charles County is holding a team trivia night at the Carpenter’s Union Hall at 755 Parr Road in Wentzville, Missouri. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and trivia begins at 7 p.m. Call Erica Fiore at 636-327-5858 or Tim Hooton at 636-695-4733 or for more information.

12 - Lincoln’s Birthday 13 - Wentzville Parks & Recreation Job Fair From 2 – 6 p.m. at Progress Park in Wentzville, applications will be accepted for temporary summer positions for lifeguards, concessionaires, day camp counselors, recreation aides and umpires. Applicants should be prepared to be interviewed and age 16 or older by May 1, 2015. No early appointments will be provided. For more information, call the Parks & Recreation Office at 636-332-9236.

14 - Valentine’s Day 14 - Valentine's Dinner at Innsbrook Make your honey happy by reserving your place at Innsbrook’s Valentine’s Day Dinner (men are required to wear a jacket) at Innsbrook Aspen Center located at Aspen Circle Dr. in Innsbrook at 6 p.m. Overnight packages are also available. See more details at http://www.innsbrook-resort.com/vacations/valentines-day. Call 636-928-3366 ext. 0 for more information and reservations.

21 - Adult painting class

16 - Presidents’ Day

Red Hat Ladies! This is for you! Join Calise Thompson for this three-hour painting class. You will leave with a painting of a one-of-a-kind hat! This class is scheduled for 9 a.m. Cost is $25 for Wentzville residents and $30 for nonresidents. Registration is required. Please call Progress Park at 636-332-9236 to sign-up.

18 - Ash Wednesday

21-22 - Snowball tournament

19 - Nutrition series Are you setting your body up for weight gain and not loss?

Learn simple tips to avoid these traps. This one-hour seminar will help you understand the basics of sound nutrition and how macronutrients work to fuel the body. Class begins at 6:30 p.m. and is $8 for Wentzville residents and $10 for nonresidents. Please call Progress Park Recreation Center at 636-332-9236 for more information.

21 - Trivia night 7th Annual Progress South Elementary Trivia Night, doors open at 6:30 p.m. at O'Fallon Elks Lodge. Cash and prizes awarded. More info at www.psepto.org.

“Snowball” tournament will get you back into the swing of things before the season begins. This tournament will follow USSSA rules and all bats must be USSSA approved. The tournament will be held at Progress Park. Cost is $160 per team. All team members must be 16+. You may register by calling 636-332-9236.

22 - Youth soccer registration deadline This six-week soccer league is offered for children of all abilities.

Children will be placed on co-ed teams based on age. Children ages 3 – 10 are welcome. Participants will receive uniform, socks, soccer ball and an award at the end of the season. Game times vary each week beginning no earlier than 9 a.m. Games will begin March 21. Please register by calling 636-332-9236.

FEBRUARY 2015 | CROSSROADS

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2139-A Bryan Valley Commercial Dr., O’Fallon, MO 63366

w w w.stygar.com

You’re Right At Home When You Bank With Us!

Contact us for a business or commercial loan!

4 Convenient LoCations to serve You! Old Monroe Moscow Mills O’Fallon Wentzville 636-655-5601 636-356-4000 636-980-3585 636-332-4906

www.bankofoldmonroe.com www.bankofoldmonroe.com

www.byerlyrv.com