CrossRoads: August 2016

Brewing up friendship in Wentzville

Living Word 1/12

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CROSSROADS | AUGUST 2016

AUGUST 2016

contents

VOL 13 | NO 8

Departments

4

Around Town Local news and events

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Always an Adventure Brawl on the Mall

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Moore on Life Roughing It

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

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Publisher Robert Huneke

Automobile Alley 2016 Dodge Journey impresses with versatility and affordability

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Editor Mathew DeKinder

Medical Memo Tips to stay fit while traveling

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Production Manager Rebecca Brockmann

Entertainment Remembering Anton Yelchin: the highlights of a ‘brilliant’ actor

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Food Breakfast bites: Healthy recipes to start your day off right

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Photo Op Special presentation of Liberty Mutual’s Firemark Award

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Community Calendar: August

Contributors Avalanche, David Finkelstein, Tony Mathews, Cindy Moore, Tim Meyer, Russ Patton, Laurie Simon Photographer Ray Rockwell

features 10

Staff Writer Brett Auten 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

Brewing up friendship in Wentzville Friendship Brewing Company injects some life into a neglected building in downtown Wentzville

By Brett Auten

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Advertiser Profiles The pros and cons of renting vs. buying

By Tim Meyer

15

…But don’t be late for school

By Russ Patton

Copyright 2015 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.

On the Cover: Photo courtesy Friendship Brewing Company

AUGUST 2016 | CROSSROADS

3

Around Town

Wentzville student wins national title

Cuivre River Electric Cooperative offers program to plant trees

Chloe Layton, Wentzville Middle School student and daughter of Jerry and Stacey Layton, recently won the national title of America’s U.S. Tween. She recently competed in Clearwater Beach, Florida against other girls from all over the United States aged 9-12 at the Americas U.S. Miss National Scholarship Program. Along with an amazing prize package, Chloe has also won a trip to attend the Miss AmeriSubmitted photo ca Pageant in Atlantic Chloe Layton, Wentzville Middle School student, recently City and a trip to Dis- won the national title of America’s U.S. Tween. ney World.

The scholarship program is judged on academic achievement, volunteer service, resume, personality wear, evening gown and a personal interview. Emphasis is placed on the importance of gaining self-confidence and learning new skills, as well as setting and achieving personal goals.

Chloe is an honor-roll student actively involved in her community and volunteer service. She promotes her platform Combatting Childhood Obesity by organizing events that get kids moving in non-traditional ways and exercise.

Cuivre River Electric Cooperative and its power supplier, Central Electric Power Cooperative of Jefferson City, team up each year to offer Green Tree Partnership grants to help area communities and organizations plant trees.

A qualified community organization can apply for up to $1,000 to help purchase trees for parks, school grounds, historic sites, roadside areas, public buildings and other public locations.

A tree-planting plan must be submitted with a Green Tree Partnership grant application.

“Be sure that planted trees are clear of utility lines,” says Chris Ryan, who coordinates Cuivre River’s portion of the program. “Include a map or drawing of planting locations, tree type and proximity to utility lines.”

Grants may also be used to match funds for other programs, such as the Missouri Department of Conservation’s Tree Resource Improvement and Maintenance program and the Department of Highway and Transportation’s Transportation Enhancement program.

To obtain a Green Tree Partnership grant application, contact Cuivre River’s Chris Ryan at 800-392-3709, ext. 4732, or print an application at www.cuivre.com under the Member Services tab.

www.pbtc.net 4

CROSSROADS | AUGUST 2016

Around Town

DAR sets new Guinness World Record

Submitted photo Anne Davis, Cathy Durand and Jean Lorenz of the Caroline Close Stuart Chapter working on the letters sent in for the Guinness World Record.

Chapter members sent in nearly 200 hand written letters as a part of the record.

DAR literally set a world record in patriotism.

Working with officials at Guiness World Records. The Daughters of the American Revolution organization set a Guinness World Record by sending more than 100,000 letters to military personnel serving overseas.

The original goal was 10,000, but they shattered that with an incredible 100,904 letters sent in one month to servicemen and women, thanking them for their service. Chapters in the greater St. Charles and St. Louis area took up the challenge contributing to this total.

One of the most rewarding aspects of DAR is the ability to express their love of country through the support of America’s Armed Forces. DAR members wrote and collected as many letters as possible in order to establish this new world record.

Meeting this goal involved following very strict guidelines to qualify for a Guinness World Record including one letter per person, each letter addressed to a specific person, letters being completely hand written, stamped, counted and bound for Guinness inspection.

Chapters through the country helped to reach this incredible record by involving family members, neighbors, service clubs, VFW halls, churches as well as veterans from their communities. U.S. military around the world will receive these letters in the coming weeks.

Caroline Close Stuart Chapter Regent, Helene Reece says, “At the core of our patriotism is supporting the men and women of our troops, especially those deployed overseas in areas where they cannot take their families. This is just one of the ways we let them know we appreciate their sacrifice.”

Make an online request to control mosquitoes in St. Charles County The Division of Environmental Health and Protection’s Mosquito Control Unit works with St. Charles County residents to control nuisance mosquitoes and the diseases they may carry. If mosquitoes become a problem in your neighborhood, you can now make an online request for spraying or habitat treatment using a computer or smart phone app.

By registering and using St. Charles County’s “Report a Concern” tool, residents living in unincorporated St. Charles County or within the city limits of Augusta, Cottleville, Dardenne Prairie, Flint Hill, Lake Saint Louis, Portage des Sioux, Weldon Spring, Weldon Spring Heights and Wentzville can request mosquito control treatment. “Report a Concern” can be found at www.sccmo.org or through mobile download of the St. Charles County Government app, and those without In-

ternet access may call 636-949-1800 to request action. For more information about St. Charles County’s Mosquito Control program, please visit www.sccmo.org/ mosquito.

Residents of O’Fallon, St. Charles and St. Peters should contact their respective city halls regarding mosquito programs.

While the unit will use various techniques to reduce the mosquito population around the county, individuals must also take personal responsibility to protect themselves: 1) Use an insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR 3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus whenever outdoors to discourage mosquitoes from biting.

2) Drain areas where water collects, clean clogged gutters, remove trash and disrupt fountains or bird baths to eliminate potential breeding areas around homes.

AUGUST 2016 | CROSSROADS

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Around Town

4-H youth learn important role of honey bees As summer gets into full swing, many of us will find ourselves swatting away honey bees that drop in on outdoor activities. But it’s important to remember that those buzzing honey bees provide a vital, but often unnoticed service.

In fact, one in every three bites we eat is the result of honeybees at work.

This year’s 4-H Ag Innovators Experience (AIE), the Honey Bee Challenge, gives students like Delany Schmidt, from Submitted photo Defiance the opportu- Delany Schmidt, from Defiance, participated in this year’s nity to understand and 4-H Ag Innovators Experience, the Honey Bee Challenge. teach others how critical honey bees are to growing food and feeding the world.

“I was surprised that so much of what we eat daily is affected by honey bees,” Schmidt commented. “I had no idea how important they were to not only the agriculture industry, but to all industries.”

As a participant in this year’s 4-H AIE Honey Bee Challenge, Schmidt and other students built their own bee bots and modeled honey bee foraging routes using a tabletop mat, straws, cups, simulated pollen, a toothbrush head and a button battery. Teams were challenged to design foraging routes that allowed their bee bot to collect the most pollen in the least amount of time.

Throughout the activity, students learned about bee foraging behavior, including the waggle dance, and how honey bees return to the hive between each crop. They also experienced firsthand what an important role honey bees play in agriculture and food production, and how to preserve and maintain honey bee habitats.

Schmidt understands how important agriculture is to our world and she plans to help spread that knowledge by pursuing a career in broadcast journalism working in the agriculture industry.

“Agriculture is a vital part of every single person’s life. It is important for everyone to be knowledgeable about this industry. Teaching youth about agriculture through activities like the Honey Bee Challenge could spark an interest for them to be more involved.”

This is the third year National 4-H Council has collaborated with Monsanto on the 4-H Ag Innovators program, which will engage 10,000 youth in eight states to build awareness of, and interest in, agriculture innovation and careers. This year’s Honey Bee Challenge events will be held throughout the summer in Ohio, Illinois, Iowa, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Missouri and Nebraska.

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CROSSROADS | AUGUST 2016

Around Town

‘Boys of Summer’ exhibit puts the spotlight on Cardinals baseball greats

A drawing by Bryan “Wiz” Wieczorek of Cardinals catcher Yadier Molina.

Submitted photo

St. Louis Cardinals baseball is the heart and theme of “Boys of Summer,” an exhibit of original paintings and drawings by O’Fallon native and graphic designer Bryan “Wiz” Wieczorek.

The exhibit opened July 22, at the Renaud Spirit Center (RSC), where it will be available for viewing, free, through Sept. 2 during regular business hours: 5:15 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday - Friday, 7 a.m.7 p.m. on Saturdays, and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sundays. The RSC is located at 2650 Tri Sports Circle in O’Fallon.

“I try to create art that I know other people will enjoy,” said Wieczorek. “In St. Louis, that’s Cardinals baseball. The game of baseball is something that I’ll always cherish for the father-son bond it brought about for me and many others.”

Wieczorek used acrylic paints, watercolors and sketching pencils to create portraits of Cardinals baseball greats both past and present, including a drawing of popular Cardinals catcher Yadier Molina. A series of paintings detailing the specialty grips that pitchers use, such as for curveballs and fastballs, is one of the exhibit’s highlights. And he’s captured famed shortstop Ozzie Smith’s legendary backflip. The Ozzie Smith painting was executed with a variety of palette knives.

“I always like to challenge myself using new mediums and materials, and I like experimenting and learning new techniques,” said Wieczorek. Although he’s an expert at creating graphics using a computer, he finds that, “There’s something about drawing with real media and actually getting your hands dirty that’s very satisfying.”

Cuivre River Electric Community Trust awards $33,500 in scholarships Sixty-seven students from Lincoln, Pike, St. Charles and Warren counties received a total of $33,500 in scholarship awards from the Cuivre River Electric Community Trust.

Local students receiving scholarships are Colton Bamert, Jonathan Banowetz, Ashley Banze, Taylor Banze, Abby Diederich, Amanda Frazier, Brooke Glore, Tanner Hale, Laura Harland, Darby Joerling, Cameran Jones, Cody Kutter, Haley Lindenbusch, Cameron Lundberg, Sean Lynch, Lily Merz, Kristin Pollien, Michelle Puckett, Nicholas Purcell, Courtney Pyrtle, Brandon Reichert, Rachel Reininger, Collin Rethmeier, Cierra Riggs, Baylee Roy, Kelsey Russell, Kalye Sanders, Darby Schmidt, Delaney Schmidt, Alexandra Tenney, Allyson Wamhoff, Garrett Wiss and Guy Wiss.

Scholarship funds are donated by Cuivre River Electric members who participate in Operation Round Up by rounding up their electric bill payments each month to the next highest dollar. Since the program began in 1997, more than $935,000 has been awarded to help over 1,950 area students achieve their academic goals.

Students are eligible to be considered if they live in the Cuivre River Electric Cooperative service area and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 while attending undergraduate courses at an accredited university or technical school. Applicants are also asked to provide an official transcript and two letters of recommendation, write a narrative to highlight their academic achievements and state their career goals, and demonstrate a financial need.

The scholarship may also be used for adult continuing education courses in their career fields.

In addition to scholarships, Operation Round Up was founded to help address unmet needs in the areas of health, youth, education, home weatherization, community and emergency services that cannot be met with other resources. More than $4.8 million has been awarded to help individuals, families and organizations in the CREC service area since the programs commencement. The next scholarship deadline is October 1, 2016.

AUGUST 2016 | CROSSROADS

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Always An Adventure

Brawl on the mall The outdoor pedestrian mall began filling up as the bars emptied out at closing time. The crowd brought their high energy from inside the numerous big dance clubs out into the warm summer evening. The busy resort town was at full occupancy, at the height of tourist season, and the party would keep going for some time, dissipating into smaller, and more subdued, gatherings as late night turned into early morning.

A dispatch call came out for police to respond to a local club where a patron was refusing to leave. Other cops and I arrived at the mall, and weaved our way through the loud, but happy, crowd. We went downstairs to the club lobby, where a male was standing by himself just inside the entrance. The club manager explained that the guy hadn’t caused any problems, but would not leave. They just wanted him out, with no arrest necessary. The problem seemed to be one of comprehension, more than of confrontation. The worse-for-wear patron just couldn’t understand that it was time to quit guzzling cocktails and go home. Having had more than one “cooperative” subject decide to fight in confined spaces, we put him in handcuffs for the trip up the stairs.

Back out on the mall, the crowd was still there, but the mood had changed - louder, and edgier. I radioed dispatch for a warrant check on our subject. While waiting for a

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reply, things were heating up. The other officers began moving toward two men having a very loud disagreement. Before they could get there, one of the men - a doctor, who, very briefly, fancied himself to be a prizefighter - punched the other man. At the sound of fist hitting flesh, it was on...

It was if someone had thrown a handful of pea-gravel into the crowd, and everyone who got hit with a piece turned and punched the person next to them. Within seconds, dozens of people began fighting.

Fists, drinks and other items flew through the air. Yelling, screaming and chaos replaced the happy banter of the previous 15 minutes.

My subject, still in handcuffs, became quite animated, and kept trying to move forward into the maelstrom. I pushed him and the crowd away from each other, whereupon his heels hit a step onto a landing, and he fell backwards against a shop entry door.

He ended up on his backside, looking every bit the drunk-slumped-in-a-doorway that he was. The doctor-turned-boxer decided to resist the efforts of a powerlifting cop trying to subdue him. The inebriated physician fared poorly, and was promptly cuffed and stuffed into an arriving patrol car.

The fracas ended almost as quickly as it began. People began running away, with torn clothing, bloody faces and looks of shock and awe. Within a couple of minutes, the mall was empty except for trash, broken glass and miscellaneous debris.

My subject had somehow managed to get

himself back to a standing position, and looked as if he had awakened from a bad dream. All the excitement had sobered him up to a certain extent. He asked, “Can I go home now?” There were no warrants for him, and he’d had little to do with the chaos that had taken place. Taking a deep breath, I said, “Sure,” and removed the handcuffs.

He shook my hand, said, “Thanks, mate.

Cheers,” and jogged off into the night.

I’ve just returned from traveling via motorcycle around the Midwest and back to the Rockies. From what I’ve observed, the mood of the country reminds me of the mood of the crowd on the mall all those years ago. People are edgy, angry and tense.

Much of that frustration is justified. And some is being deliberately stirred up by those who don’t have the public’s best interest in mind.

Maybe a few deep breaths are in order. I hope we can collectively shake hands and jog off peacefully into the night; for once a nasty conflict starts, it can progress quickly and take on a momentum of its own.

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.

Moore On Life

Roughing It My husband has just informed me that we are going to do more camping. He’s gotten the bug again and there is no turning back. In years past, we did a lot of camping or as I like to refer to it, “Let’s all pretend we’ve been evicted from our house!”

To play the game, we were forced to leave the nice cushy comforts of home with only the bare necessities. We would then go out into the wild and survive in the dirt and wild vegetation as our cave ancestors did and enjoy it – or else!

We had three kids and two adults sealed inside a tent no bigger than a car trunk. All that separated us from bears, Bigfoot and flesheating night zombies was a zipper and a thin piece of canvas. Last I heard, fabric was not a major deterrent to ravenous grizzlies. In fact our tent, stuffed with tasty people-sausages, probably seemed less impenetrable and more inviting…like a zipped up lunch bag. But it’s a good thing we were armed with our trusty flashlights, which could emit a distracting beam into a crazed bear’s eyes. That would leave us just enough time to dodge the toothy predator and run faster than our short-legged children.

It was really rough. We gave up a perfectly nice king-sized Serta in exchange for a lumpy sleeping bag on a bed of sharp boulders. Next morning I woke up with a dislocated spine and an immediate need for a chiropractor.

I gave up my complexion after a herd of bloodthirsty mosquitoes attacked my face by mistaking it for an all-night diner. I complained to my husband that I looked like a teen-ager with a severe case of acne. He tried to calm my fears by correcting me and saying, “No you don’t, dear. You look like an old person with smallpox.”

We exchanged a nice flushable potty for a smelly outhouse which required the next patron to knock the top portion off before it became useable. I opted instead for Plan B. This forced me to go out into the wilds to commune with nature. Unfortunately, I picked a patch of poison ivy to accomplish my task, which left me itching for civilization.

I traded my waterproof, bear-proof, electric, running-and-flushingwater and heated residence all for a burnt s’more, which went up in flames and pulled a Johnny Cash on me when it fell into a burning ring of fire.

Since that time we have upgraded to a camp trailer, which is quite an improvement.

But even though it has a fully functioning stove inside, my husband likes to harken back to his pioneer ancestral roots to do things primitively. He likes to believe he’s from a line of rugged stock that survived by their wits and lived off the land, especially when he gets into his outdoor meal making mode. He fires up the rustic cast iron pots over an open flame fire pit and attempts to cook as burning coals roast his finger tips and singe his eyebrows down to nubs.

While all this self-mutilation is going on, I am in the camper lounging on the couch and enjoying a bacon and cheese Hot Pocket, which I have just fired up in the microwave.

It gives me the opportunity to also harken back to my own pioneer ancestral roots…

Back in the early settler days, most adventurers gathered their few possessions in a covered wagon and walked for hundreds of miles through Indian-infested prairie and hot suffocating temperatures while eating sagebrush and rattlesnake casserole. And for what? All to stake claim on new unchartered territories? My kindred relations would have none of it and weren’t interested in budging. They were wise homebodies and stayed by their comfy hearths eating a bacon and cheese biscuit and said to the other fools, “You all go on ahead. We’ll catch up with you when mass transit and microwaves are invented.” They were a wise bunch and not just because they appreciated bacon.

So we are off again this weekend. Hopefully we’ll find a nice spot next to a power outlet where we can plug in and watch movies while ordering Chinese take-out from our cell phones. If not, we may have to rough it and fire up a Hot Pocket in the microwave.

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.

AUGUST 2016 | CROSSROADS

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Brewing up friendship in Wentzville Friendship Brewing Company injects some life into a neglected building in downtown Wentzville

By Brett Auten Dogged determination.

There are many ingredients, both literal and figurative, that have gone into Wentzville’s Friendship Brewing Company but the above most certainly has been the key.

The idea sprang up between two friends, Brian Nolen and Dan Belcher, who have shared a passion for quality tasting beer for nearly 30 years.

The pair began brewing in Belcher’s backyard just as the craft beer industry started to take flight. Around 2011 the pair (along with some new-found “friends” and partners) went all in and after traversing some choppy waters they have successfully landed on fertile ground.

“We decided that you either sit on the side and look at the deep end or you jump in,” Nolen said.

In mid-July, located at 100 East Pitman Avenue in Wentzville, Friendship Brewing Company first held a few private events then a

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soft opening with no fanfare, no social media, just simply flipping the sign over to “Open.”

Word quickly spread through the 32,000-plus town in western St. Charles County and before they knew it, they were slammed.

“We were thrilled to have that level of interest and support heading into week number two,” Nolen said. “It wasn’t just in the immediate Wentzville area but all over the county and some from out of state.”

The head shaker in all of this is the building that Friendship Brewing Company decided to set up shop in. Nolen and crew found a 102-year-old building – whose best years were more than a half-acentury behind it – that spoke to them. Despite the naysayers and the over 40 years since any real maintenance had been done on the place, they began what ended up being a 29-month-long project to not only refurbish but also re-inject life into the building.

“A lot of folks thought we were crazy,” Nolen said. “It was gray and

drab and rundown. People would drive by and not notice it was here. I wasn’t on people’s radar. We even had local politicians ask, when will the bulldozer show up?”

The Friendship crew did as much of the general labor, carpentry, painting and jack hammering that they could. And what all goes into putting a defibrillator to a weary old building? Here is just a few highlights: • Five 40-yard constructions dumpsters of debris removed.

• Three tandem-axle loads of metal scrap removed.

• 3,800-square-feet of new roof installed.

• Six new doors installed.

• 18 new or renovated windows installed.

• 400-square feet of concrete floor jack hammered and removed.

• 15 tons of new HVAC • New water and sewer lines and all interior and exterior plumbing.

• Approximately one barge load each of paint and caulk.

Despite the sweat and toil, it was paramount for Friendship Brewing Company to set up shop in Wentzville, a place Nolen has called home for nearly five decades.

Wentzville has been on the upswing, both culturally and population-wise, and Nolen wanted to make sure his company was a torch-bearer in that movement.

“Downtown has not been vibrant for most of my life but businesses are changing that,” Nolen said. “We have seen what Old St. Charles and Cottleville have done with their downtown areas and with the help of other like-minded people, we are on our way. There is more energy and more interest. People appreciate and shop locally-owned businesses. We think we can be a destination that helps downtown Wentzville continue to blossom.”

Friendship Brewing Company offers at least twenty five rotating taps with at least five house beers available all of the time, plus local, regional, national and international guest taps as well.

But as delicious as it is, humans cannot survive on craft beer alone. So Friendship Brewing Company formed a partnership with the Caruso family (from the famed family on Washington Street in downtown St. Louis) to form Benefits Bistro. The menu is small but specific, focusing on fresh, simple, affordable and creative.

“I look at us as not a restaurant but a brewery that serves food,” Nolen said. “First and foremost it’s a brewery but we care about food. The Caruso family treat food like we do our beer, simple but good. You won’t find any fryers, nothing pulled out of the freezer and re-heated. It’s prepared that day. It’s a quality level that is beyond a pub setting.”

For more information about Friendship Brewing Company, visit www.friendshipbrewingcompany.com.

Page 10: Photo courtesy Michael Schlueter Photograpy. Picutred (from left) are Friendship Brewing Company friends and partners Kent Critchell, Dan Belcher, Brian Nolan, Bobby Love and Bob Brandt.

Page 11: Photos courtesy Friendship Brewing Company. The rehabilitation process at 100 East Pitman Avenue in Wentzville was extensive as it became the new home for Friendship Brewing Company.

AUGUST 2016 | CROSSROADS

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Automobile Alley

2016 Dodge Journey

impresses with versatility and affordability The 2016 Dodge Journey crossover is one of America’s most affordable crossovers in its class. With a an attractive, starting manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) structure of $20,895 for the entry level model, it’s $2,600 less than the 2015 SE version. It’s offered with the choice of four or six-cylinder engines, five or seven occupant seating and with front or allwheel-drive underside chassis setup.

The 2016 Journey lineup was also simplified from seven to five models, laying the foundation for offering customers improved value and expanded options, coupled with making the ordering process more streamlined. As a matter of fact, just about every build combination of Journey now has a more attractive price point than that of the outgoing design.

And worth bringing to the forefront is the fact that the ’15 model had a record year as for as sales. It appears as if Journey is still on this same glide path for 2016 as well.

With the spotlight focused towards Journey’s exterior, it tends to maintain its sculpted, yet clean and aggressive lines overall. Crossroad and Crossroad Plus models also have an eye-catching bold rear “ring of fire” LED tail lamp assembly plus distinctive style19-inch aluminum wheels fitted with performance all-season tires. The exterior design element reflects a combination of a modern and contemporary silhouette overall, plus chiseled, squared-off body stampings. It’s sort of the best of two worlds with its outer appearance in general.

This vehicle tends to offer levels of refinement not typically found in the segment.

For example, you’ll discover a nicely crafted, one-piece, soft-touch instrument panel. Furthermore, it comes equipped with their standard electronic vehicle information center screen. Journey’s interior is certainly quite comfortable. Engineers also addressed noise, vibration and harshness problems with various types of sound isolaters. This resulted in a nice, relaxing and quiet passenger cabin.

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With the Uconnect touchscreen, owners with voice commands will also be able to operate the navigation system and music selections plus request nearby fuel prices by the sound of their voice. Four Uconnect variances are available including one with an 8.4-inch touch screen. They all feature easy-to-use controls and class-leading technology.

Journey models SE, SXT, Crossroad and Crossroad Plus are all powered by a standard 2.4-liter 16-valve DOHC fourcylinder engine. It produces 173 horsepower and is matched with a four-speed automatic transmission. This four-cylinder engine delivers 26 miles per gallon on the highway.

Standard on all models are multistage front passenger air bags, active head restraints, electronic stability control with all-speed traction control, electronic roll mitigation with brake assist and a driverside knee blocker air bag. Also included are side-curtain air bags covering all three rows, front seat-mounted side air bags, plus four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, a child seat anchor system and trailer-sway control. With two new exterior paint colors available for Journey in the ‘16 lineup, you will find Jazz Blue Pearl and Olive Green. All models are built in Toluca, Mexico. At roadtest, the version I tested had an MSRP of $34,660 after options and destination charges.

By DAVID FINKELSTEIN

David Finkelstein is a Master/Skill Automotive Service Technician, maintaining that role for over 45 years, coupled with being a shop owner in that time frame as well. He’s also invented a number of garage service tools for mechanics and has served on both National as well as local Automotive Trade Industry Boards. Additionally, he pioneered “Car Talk Radio” over 40 years ago, starting out with KMOX/ CBS Radio as well as hosted “Auto Talk” on KFTK/FOX News Radio for some 15-years. David tests and evaluates new vehicles weekly and also does some consulting with various auto manufactures, both import as well as with domestic nameplates.

Medical Memo

Tips to stay

fitwhile traveling

If summer travel plans frequently keep you away from home, it can be a challenge to maintain your regular fitness routine. With dedication, planning and a little creativity, you can use these tips from fitness entrepreneur Cassey Ho to maintain your workout regimen no matter where your travels take you.

long periods. To fit some activity into your travel, wear your walking or running shoes.

If you’re traveling by plane, stroll through the airport terminal rather than sitting at the gate if you have a layover or delay. When traveling by train walk through the cars occasionally. If you’re driving, take breaks to get out and stretch.

1. Pack for fitness Before your trip, research the hotel, nearby fitness facilities or area parks and pack accordingly. Be sure to bring along the essentials, such as athletic shoes and exercise clothing; easily portable equipment such as a jump rope, resistance bands or yoga mat; and technology to support your workout like your smartphone and headphones.

Like the right apparel, footwear and diet, it is also important to have the right contact lens technology for your eyes. It’s crucial to your performance that you be comfortable throughout the day so you don’t lose focus.

3. Work in a workout When you arrive at your destination, set the tone for your trip by working out right away or scheduling time for a workout and treating it as an important appointment.

Consider these simple ways to squeeze in some physical activity:

2. Keep active as you go Whether you’re traveling by car, train or plane, summer travel can force you to sit for

• Go for a quick run in the area near your hotel – it’s a great way to burn calories, and it’s the perfect opportunity to explore your destination!

• Walk the hotel halls – or get your daily steps logged at a local attraction or meeting facility. Take the stairs when possible and use your phone’s GPS to map out a path or find a local park or trail.

• For a quick burst of cardio, power

through a few sets of jumping jacks in your room.

• If you’ve got space in your hotel room, use your tablet or smartphone to find a yoga or aerobics workout and follow along.

• Try pushups, planks and squats, all of which rely on your own body mass for resistance.

• Swim laps in the hotel pool.

4. Make healthy dining choices When dining out, make sensible choices.

Take the time to evaluate the menu. Select foods that are steamed, roasted or broiled, and avoid fried foods. Ask for dressings and sauces on the side. If you’ll be in town for more than a day or two, take time to visit a local grocery store to stock up on fresh, healthy snacks, such as fruit, vegetables, hummus and unsalted nuts, for your hotel room.

Keeping things simple and staying committed to your routine with these tips will help you to easily keep your health on track during your summer travels.

AUGUST 2016 | CROSSROADS

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Advertiser Profiles

The pros and cons of

renting vs. buying Jumping into the ring of homeownership is an exciting milestone! There are many ways owning a home can impact you and your family. How do you know when to rent and when to make the move to purchasing your home? Here is a handy guide to the pros and cons to renting and owning a home.

Cons:

Renting

1. No wealth creation. As your payments go directly to your landlord and not the specific property, you are unable to build equity and reap the return on investments from the home’s growing value.

2. No tax benefits. While homeowners can deduct property taxes and mortgage interest payments from their federal income tax, renters can’t claim deductions for housing costs.

3. Dependent on the landlord. For everything ranging from utilities, to paint, to the rent dollars themselves, your landlord makes the majority of the decisions when it comes to renting a home. Depending on your lease, your landlord can increase the rent each year, or month!

Pros: 1. Accommodates flexible lifestyles. If

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you travel frequently for work, leisure, or medical care, you may not have the time or availability to take care of a home. Renting allows an affordable accommodation without any hassle of renovations or repairs.

your control. A declining neighborhood, housing surplus, or unstable market can decrease the value of your home despite well done renovations.

2. Freedom in allocating finances. For renters, expenses such as mortgage insurance, real estate taxes, and home maintenance costs, can instead be funneled into savings, stocks or discretionary funds after the monthly rent and utilities are paid.

1. Fixed monthly payments. Homeowners with fixed-rate mortgages can trust that their mortgage payment will stay consistent each month, enabling the creation of a stable monthly budget.

3. Reduced insurance costs. Apart from renters insurance that covers the interior of a home, costly homeowners insurance and unexpected repairs belongs to the landlord, not the tenant.

Cons:

Buying

1. Unexpected costs. Leaky roofs, backedup pipes, and cracking foundations create thousands of dollars worth of unplanned repairs that stretch your budget to the limit.

2. You’re locked in. Once you sign on the dotted line the house is yours, and so are the payments.

3. Fluctuating home value. Despite your best efforts, your home can become less marketable based on circumstances out of

Pros:

2. Financial gains. From tax credits to equity building, home ownership offers buyers a number of monetary perks and freedoms they wouldn’t receive as tenants.

3. Freedom in expression. A kitchen remodel, a four-season porch addition, and other decorative transformations are all up to a homeowner’s discretion with no strings attached to a lease agreement.

By Tim Meyer

Timothy M. Meyer is Vice President/Loan Officer for Peoples Bank & Trust Co. NMLS # 421600 Timothy.Meyer@pbtc.net www.pbtc.net

Advertiser Profiles

…But don’t be late for school

Wentzville EDC Business Spotlight

By Russ Patton, owner of Byerly RV

A vintage photo of Rosinante.

Submitted photo

“When you set out for Ithaka Ask that your way be long, Full of adventure, full of instruction. .........

Have Ithaka always in your mind, Your arrival there is what you are desired for.

But don’t in the least hurry the journey.”

Blue Soul Studio is located in Downtown Wentzville next to the Wentzville License Bureau office. The business is jointly-owned by Janiece Martinez and Dani Czarnecki. The business opened at this location in March 2016 and are a personalized hair salon which also features its own makeup artist.

Blue Soul Studio provides an intimate experience for its diverse clientele with an emphasis on both the inside and outside of their customers. The business maintains a focus on custom coloring and places value on quality versus quantity. Janiece and Dani hope to get more clients from the Wentzville area. Come experience a comfortable salon with a personalized feel.

(Constantine P Cavafy) Rosinante was an old 1963 Dodge post office truck which I converted into a fine motorhome with my little brother Guy who kept urging me to finish so we could go camping. Finally, in late August, we went “camping.” I didn’t tell our parents where we were going.

For days we chased the sun until we couldn’t go any farther. From San Clemente State Park in California we looked down on the Pacific Ocean. But along the way we fought the winds across Kansas, saw the Grand Canyon, Cave of the Winds, Oak Creek Canyon and Disneyland.

We traveled in luxury…sort of. Our 48-square-feet of floor space included a sofa/gaucho bed, a bathroom with recirculating toilet, a kitchen with refrigerator and sink and a furnace. The rear rollup door opened up to a fold-down platform shaded by an awning.

Our adventure took a little over two weeks, quite a feat since Rosinante couldn’t go over 50 mph. But we made it back…two days after school started. America calls. Share it with your family.

Buy or rent an RV from Byerly RV in Eureka, but don’t be late for school!

Byerly RV, the Center of the RV World. Check us out at Byerly RV.com or visit us on Facebook.

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Entertainment

(Mika Boorem). Just watch how young Anton handles the scene when he finds Carol seriously injured by the neighborhood bully.

He and Boorem’s reactions couldn’t be more realistic as depicted in the film’s best – and most heartbreaking – scene. From this point on, Anton Yelchin’s career path was officially set for life.

“Star Trek” (2009), “Star Trek Into Darkness” (2013), “Star Trek Beyond” (2016) Anton Yelchin was born in Lenin-

grad, Russia (now St. Petersburg). Both his mother and father were Russian professional figure skaters. So naturally, it’s understandable why he nabbed the role in the new “Star Trek” reboot franchise as Chekov. The famed role called for a Russian accent and with nearly a decade of acting experience – and still in his late teens at the time – Anton was the perfect fit and you can see why director J.J. Abrams recently - and publically - remembered the actor being “funny as hell” and “brilliant.”

Remembering Anton Yelchin: the highlights of a ‘brilliant’ actor When it comes to child stars growing up in the industry and becoming credible as adult actors (especially without any negative headlines as they come of age), Anton Yelchin is one of the finest examples of that kind of consistent success. He had been in the business for about 18 years by the age of – only – 27. While he worked alongside with many of the best in the entertainment business, you can’t help but notice that he was on his way to greatness – then again, technically, he already had made it. By the age of 11, he struck gold, starring opposite an Academy-Award-winning actor…

“Hearts in Atlantis” (2001) He received positive attention by many (especially me) in this film directed by Scott Hicks (who just received an Oscar nomination for his previous film “Shine”) and starring Oscar winner Anthony Hopkins. Based on the novel by Stephen King, the story is about an 11-year-old boy named Bobby (Yelchin) growing up in a suburban home with his single mother (Hope Davis); as a new tenant, Ted Brautigan (Hopkins), moves in upstairs. Brautigan secretly seems to carry a special ability, which is why he asks for Bobby’s help to be on the lookout. While Hopkins is the star of the film, it’s Yelchin’s performance that carries it – and he was a natural. Their chemistry is the heart of the film alongside Bobby’s relationship with his childhood girlfriend, Carol

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“Fright Night” (2011) In this horror film remake – that no one really wanted originally – Anton found himself as the lead opposite Colin Farrell (chewing up every scene as the evil Jerry) about a high school kid named Charley (Yelchin) who becomes obsessed with spying on his next-door neighbor who may be a vampire. Of course Charley is extremely skeptical of the situation at first when his former best friend, Ed (Christopher Mintz-Plasse), gives him the crazy news. As Charley, Anton gives us priceless reactions saying things like, “that’s a stupid name for a vampire… Jerry?” followed by “You read way too much ‘Twilight’” back towards Ed. The script is surprisingly well written with dark wit and – as you can see now – smart pop-culture references. The rest of the cast includes Toni Collete, David Tenent, Dave Franco and Imogen Poots. It’s a rare horror film you should not dismiss especially with a reliable lead like Anton Yelchin who – once again – carried the film a like pro.

He was the kind of actor who kept things simple, but easily relatable to the audience in the way he played out his characters. He was never the ‘showy’ type of actor, but was always on his A-game when the time came for difficult scenes that required deep emotions. His roles were mostly on the dramatic side, but he was quite self-animated in real life. He was tremendously fresh when it came to comedy - even in his more dramatic roles. Along with a handful of films that have yet to come out with him involved, Anton Yelchin can also be seen in films like “Terminator Salvation” (2009), “Like Crazy” (2012), and this year’s “Green Room” (2016) among others.

Anton was a kind and gifted actor gone too soon.

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

B r e a k fa st Bites Healthy recipes to start your day off right It is well-known that the best way to start the morning is with a balanced breakfast – it’s not called “the most important meal of the day” for nothing, after all.

Breakfast is also linked to many health benefits, including weight control and improved performance.

Studies show that eating a healthy breakfast can help you enjoy a more nutritionally complete diet that is higher in nutrients, vitamins and minerals, improved concentration and performance at the office or in the classroom, more strength and endurance, and lower cholesterol levels.

According to the USDA’s MyPlate Food Guide, a healthy breakfast should contain a well-balanced variety of foods from the major food groups, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low- or non-fat dairy and lean protein.

These recipes for Protein Pancakes, Pumpkin-Banana Bread and Oat Bran Blueberry Muffins from registered dietitian Shanna Stewart, of Wellness For The Win, can help you put your best foot forward to tackle everything the day ahead throws at you. Find these healthy recipes and more at culinary.net/bb.

Oat Bran Blueberry Muffins Breakfast on the Go Muffins are perfect for an on-the-go breakfast or as a healthy snack option. Homemade oat bran muffins are a great alternative to large, storebought muffins that are usually packed with calories and fat. Oat bran is a good source of soluble fiber, which can help reduce cholesterol.

Not only do these muffins offer health benefits, the recipe is also effortless, making it a morning time-saver when you need to get out the door in a hurry. You can also switch out blueberries for different fruits, such as a banana, giving you the option to have something new each time.

Ingredients: 2 cups oat bran hot cereal, un cooked 2 tablespoons brown sugar substitute 2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional) 1 cup skim milk 2 egg whites, slightly beaten 1/4 cup honey or molasses 2 tablespoons canola oil 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries Directions: Heat oven to 425 F. Line 12 muffin cups with paper baking cups or spray bottoms only with non-stick cooking spray.

In bowl, combine oat bran cereal, brown sugar substitute, baking powder and salt, if desired; mix well.

Add milk, egg whites, honey, oil and blueberries; mix just until dry ingredients are moistened. Do not over-mix.

Fill prepared muffin cups about threequarters full.

Bake 15-17 minutes, or until golden brown.

Variation: In place of blueberries, stir 1 medium mashed, ripe banana or any other fruit of choice into batter before baking.

Protein Pancakes Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups quick oats 1 scoop vanilla protein powder 1 ripe mashed banana 1/2 cup fat free Greek yogurt or cottage cheese 1/4 cup almond or skim milk 2 egg whites 1/2 teaspoon vanilla 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/4 teaspoon baking soda

dash of cinnamon

berries (optional)

walnuts (optional)

Directions: In blender, combine oats, protein powder, banana, Greek yogurt, milk, eggs, vanilla, baking powder, baking soda and cinnamon. Blend until smooth batter forms.

Cook on griddle until golden brown.

Add mixed berries and walnuts (or other toppings) as desired.

Serving suggestions: Pour the juice from the fruit on top of pancakes as “syrup” or top with reduced-sugar strawberry jelly and light syrup.

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Photo Op

Special presentation of Liberty Mutual’s Firemark Award Typically the Liberty Mutual Firemark Award is used to honor a firefighter for heroism or community service. This ceremony, attended by photographer Ray Rockwell, held July 13 at Wentzville Station #1 was unique in that eight different agencies across two counties were honored for their actions in the extraction from a vehicle of a young man on Highway 61 on May 25. The patient and his family were in attendance. Members of the Wentzville, Wright City and Lincoln County Fire Protection Districts, Lincoln and St. Charles County Ambulance Districts, St. Charles County Emergency Communications, ARCH Helicopter and the Missouri State Highway Patrol were all honored. This incident spotlights the teamwork and professionalism between all of our local first responders regardless of city or county.

Photos By Ray Rockwell

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Community Calendar

...August...

2 - Free concert

16 – Free concert

O’Fallon Jammin’ concert with the O’Fallon Community Concert Band bringing the sound of music from the movies, pops, jazz and Big Band from 6:30 – 9 p.m. at Civic Park at 308 Civic Park Drive in O’Fallon. There is free admission and parking. Bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating around the bandstand, Concessions will be provided by Sorelle. An ADAaccessible playground, restrooms and walking path are located nearby.

For weather updates call 636-379-5614 and for more information visit www.ofallon.mo.us/jammin.

O’Fallon Jammin’ concert with Retro Bogie, who will play Motown, disco, pop and rock, from 6:30 – 9 p.m. at Civic Park at 308 Civic Park Drive in O’Fallon. There is free admission and parking. Bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating around the bandstand and purchase delicious food from food trucks and vendors. An ADA-accessible playground, restrooms and walking path are located nearby. For weather updates call 636-379-5614 and for more information visit www.ofallon.mo.us/jammin

3-7 – Washington, Missouri Town and Country Fair The Washington, Missouri Town and Country Fair takes place at the Washington City Park Fairgrounds. Season passes and daily tickets are available. Parking, concerts, rides, exhibits, and other shows are all included with admission. Visit www.washmofair.com for tickets, concert line up, schedule of events and general fair information.

4- U.S. Coast Guard Birthday 7 – Purple Heart Day 9 – Free concert

21 – Senior Citizens Day 23 – Free concert O’Fallon Jammin’ concert with My Friend Mike, who will play Top 40 hits, from 6:30 – 9 p.m. at Civic Park at 308 Civic Park Drive in O’Fallon. There is free admission and parking. Bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating around the bandstand and purchase delicious food from food trucks and vendors. An ADA-accessible playground, restrooms and walking path are located nearby. For weather updates call 636-379-5614 and for more information visit www.ofallon.mo.us/jammin

26 – Women’s Equality Day

O’Fallon Jammin’ concert with Memphis Ride, who will play tropical rock, country and more, from 6:30 – 9 p.m. at Civic Park at 308 Civic Park Drive in O’Fallon. There is free admission and parking. Bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating around the bandstand and purchase delicious food from food trucks and vendors. An ADA-accessible playground, restrooms and walking path are located nearby. For weather updates call 636-379-5614 and for more information visit www.ofallon.mo.us/jammin.

13 – Free electronics and appliance recycling event A free electronics and appliance recycling event takes place from 8 a.m.

– noon at the west parking lot at CarShield Field (formerly T.R. Hughes Ballpark) at 900 T.R. Hughes Boulevard in O’Fallon. The drop-off is free except for certain televisions and available to all including schools, churches and businesses.

19 – National Aviation Day 14 – Theater auditions O’FallonTheatreWorks will hold open auditions for the classic World War II drama, “The Diary of Anne Frank” at noon at the O’Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall) at 100 North Main St. in O’Fallon. Auditioners should come prepared for cold readings from the script and bring a resume and a photo. Crew members also are needed. Performances will be held Nov. 4 – 6 and 11 – 13. For more information contact Darren Granaas at 636-474-8150 or dgranaas@ofallon.

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