CrossRoads: Dec. 2011

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DECEMBER spotlight

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2011 contents

Celebrate the Season

by Shelly A. Schneider

lifestyle

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Just sit right back...

by Shelly A. Schneider

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Are Women Superior?

by Joe Morice

entertainment

9

2011 Holiday Movie Preview

food

16

A Holiday Table Full of Flavor

VOL 7 | NO 12

by Steve Bryan

courtesy of Family Features

photo op

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around town Publisher Senior Writer Photographer Movie Critic Creative Design

Community News Shelly Schneider Ray Rockwell Steve Bryan Donna M. Huneke

For advertising information, please contact us at:

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

www.mycnews.com

Copyright 2011 Huneke Publications, Inc.

Turkey Trot

photos by Ray Rockwell

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

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Holiday Travel Tips

10

Community Calendar

11

Holiday Safety Tips

12

Wentzville Chamber News

15

Tips for Buying Tech Holiday Gifts

18

LSLDP Chamber News

19

YMCA 2012 Strong Community Campaign Volunteers Needed

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.

DECEMBER 2011 CROSSROADS

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SPOTLIGHT

Celebrate the Season

BY SHELLY A. SCHNEIDER

Christmas is the season of giving. What better gift than spending time with family and friends?

Watch a parade, sip hot cocoa, stroll through amazing light displays. St. Charles County’s cities offer something for everyone.

Augusta - 29th Candlelight Christmas Walk More than 1500 glowing luminaries welcome visitors to charming Augusta. Horse-drawn carriage rides are available, and freshly roasted chestnuts await you at the bonfire at the old town square. The 29th Annual Candlelight Christmas Walk will be held from 5 – 10 p.m. on Friday, December 2 and Friday, December 9.

Defiance - Candlelight Tour at the Daniel Boone Home and Boonesfield Village Thousands of candles create a soft glow illuminating the path into 1820, where residents of the Missouri frontier prepare for the holiday season. Enjoy wassail, cookies and period music. The Candlelight Tour will be held on December 2, 3, 9 and 10. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the last tickets are sold at 9 p.m. Admission is $15 for adults and $10 for children.

Lake Saint Louis - Mayor’s Tree Lighting Ceremony Join family and friends at The Meadows Shopping Center in Lake Saint Louis at 7 p.m. on Friday, December 2. Highlights include the official lighting of the Christmas tree in the roundabout area, Victorian carolers, the Soundwaves Choir from Green Tree Elementary School, sleigh rides, and a visit from Santa. Bring along your camera and take your picture with Santa on his sleigh. Cookies, hot chocolate and coffee will be served by Santa’s elves, courtesy of Max & Erma’s. All events will be held outdoors, so please dress accordingly!

O’Fallon - Celebration of Lights Celebration of Lights is a drive-through holiday light display held at Fort Zumwalt Park through December 30 (closed on December 25). Each scene is designed and funded by local organizations, churches and businesses. Started in 1991, the event attracts more than 8,000 vehicles each year and more than 5,000 individuals on Walk-Through Night. Hours are 6 – 9 p.m. Sunday and Tuesday through Thursday, and 6 – 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Cars are $9, commercial vans are $15 and buses are $1 per person ($25 minimum). All non-commercial vehicles are just $7 on Tuesday nights.

Visitors receive $1 off any regular admission with a canned food donation (not valid on Tuesdays or Walk-Through Night).

Walk-Through Night will be held from 6 – 9 p.m. on Tuesday, December 13. The cost is $2 per person (ages 2 and under are free).

Parking is available at First Baptist Church of O’Fallon, 8750 Veterans Memorial Parkway or O’Fallon Christian Church, 9380 Veterans Memorial Parkway. Sorry, no pets allowed at this event. Visitors 4

CROSSROADS DECEMBER 2011

Zumwalt Park.

may walk along the illuminated route and enjoy holiday music, visit with Santa, fireworks and booths filled with holiday crafts, gifts and festival food. The fireworks display will begin at 7:25 p.m.

For information on train rides, carriage rides and sleigh rides, visit www.ofallon.mo.us. Directions: from I-70, take Bryan Road (Exit 216). Turn south on Bryan Road. Take a left at Veterans Memorial Parkway (South Outer Rd.). Drive 1.5 miles and take a right on Jessup Lane into Fort

St. Charles - St. Charles Christmas Traditions The highlight of any visit to Historic Main Street has to be the Santa Parade. More than 40 costumed Victorian carolers and Legends of Christmas come together for this magical event at 1:30 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday during Christmas Traditions. The Santa Parade starts at the corner of Boone’s Lick and South Main. After the show don’t miss out on the opportunity to interact with all the Santas as well as collect their Character Cards.

Las Posadas 2011 will be held at 6 p.m. on Saturday, December 3.

It is a beautiful re-enactment of the Spanish tradition. Las Posadas finds Mary and Joseph looking for shelter as they process down South Main Street with thousands of visitors carrying luminaries and singing carols. The procession begins at the corner of S. Main Street and Boone’s Lick Road. Las Posadas culminates along the riverfront in Frontier Park with a re-telling of the Christmas Story in narrative and song, a live nativity scene, and carols sung around the Yule Log bonfire.

Be sure to visit Trains on Main located at the “North Main Train Station” at 222 N. Main Street. This year’s display will include a Victorian winter scene, a circus scene, Katy coal train, Union Pacific Big Boy, Polar Express, and so much more. Features HO, O, N and G gauge trains. Admission is $2 for adults and $1 for children ages 3-12. Children under 3 are free. Proceeds benefit the Frenchtown Heritage Museum. Trains on Main is open during regular festival hours. For more information, call 636.724.2106.

For a complete schedule of events, please visit www.stcharleschristmas.com.

St. Peters - Community Events Enjoy wonderful ice skating routines and festive holiday characters during the annual Winter Wonderland on Ice Show at the St. Peters Rec-Plex. Performance times are 7 p.m. on Friday, December 9, and 5 p.m. on Saturday, December 10. Tickets are $7 for adults, $5 for children (12 and under) and $5 for seniors (55 and older) for St. Peters residents and Rec-Plex pass holders. Tickets for the general public are $8 for adults, $6 for children and seniors. For more information, please call 6369.939.2386 or visit www.stpetersmo.net.

Get your kids’ wish lists together, and visit Santa at the Old Town Log Cabin in Old Town St. Peters from 1 – 3 p.m. on Saturday, De-

SPOTLIGHT

Celebrate the Season cember 3. Enjoy hot chocolate, cookies and a horse-drawn carriage ride through Old Town. The event is free. Bring your own camera for great photo opportunities, and dress appropriately—this is an outdoor event. The Old Town Log Cabin is located at 141 Gatty Drive, across from Old Town Park.

Join Santa at Rec-Plex South for a special breakfast, crafts and Christmas songs from 8:30 – 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, December 10.

Kids ages 2-8 and their parents (and grandparents) can join in on the fun. Bring your own camera for some memorable pictures with Santa. The cost is $11 per child and $5.50 per adult. Advance registration by December 3 is required due to limited space. Call ext.

1400 at 636.939.2FUN or visit www.stpetersmo.net to learn more.

Wentzville - Community Events Wentzville’s kickoff to the season is the annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony on Sunday, December 4. It’s a night filled with glittering lights, holiday music, crisp night air and lots of friends. The official Wentzville Holiday Tree will be located on the wedge of land between Pete’s Drive- In and Dee’s Produce, at the intersection of Pearce Boulevard and Luetkenhaus Boulevard (formerly Business Route 61). Gathering for the lighting begins at 5:30 p.m.

Live holiday musical entertainment will enhance the festive spirit that evening, and Wentzville’s Mayor Paul Lambi will officially light

the tree. Immediately following the tree lighting, the Wentzville Holiday Parade will begin. The parade starts at Budget Towing on Luetkenhaus Boulevard, will travel south to Pearce Boulevard, then turn and go west on Pearce to the Wentzville firehouse. At the firehouse, kids and adults alike may gather for cookies, candy canes, hot chocolate, and, of course, a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Bring your camera so you don’t miss a single photo-op as children sit on Santa’s lap and talk over their Christmas list with the jolly old elf.

Wentzville’s Holiday Night Lights Display is held at Rotary Park and is open to visitors Thursdays through Sundays through December 11. From December 15 through December 30 (closed Christmas day), the display will be open from 6 – 10 p.m. Admission is only $8 for vehicles holding up to six passengers. Vans, buses or limos holding seven or more people must pay an additional $1 per person, beginning with the seventh person. A special walk-through night will be held from 6 – 8 p.m. on Monday, December 12. In addition to strolling through the impressive light displays, visitors that evening may enjoy refreshments in the Kolb building. Santa will also be there, so bring your camera! The cost for the walk-through evening is $3 per person for ages 6 and up. Children 5 and under will be admitted free. No drive-through viewing will be allowed on this special night.

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LIFESTYLE

Just sit right back...

BY SHELLY A. SCHNEIDER

Lately I’ve been praying for the desire to be more holy. And during the beautiful season of Advent, I try to put that desire into practice. I’m human, though, and being holy isn’t even a day-to-day thing…it’s a minute-by-minute thing. There are many, many days when I choose to be right, not holy.

I grew up watching the shows that TV Land and “Nick at Nite” now call “classic.” Does it make me feel old?

You bet. Do I care? Of course not. I can’t remember if I watched the originals or reruns of family favorites like “The Andy Griffith Show” and “Gilligan’s Island.” I just remember loving them dearly.

So why transport you back in time to Mayberry and an island somewhere in the Pacific? Theme songs. All three kids were in the van when the theme song from “The Andy Griffith Show” flooded our ears. Music always puts a smile on my face, and in this case, I was grinning from ear to ear. Almost giddy, you might say. I don’t know why, but hearing the whistled tune brought a big, goofy smile to my face.

My head was bopping from side to side I was rudely snatched from the 1960s and thrown headfirst into the year 2009 when my oldest son, Christopher, decided he knew more than I when it came to theme songs.

“Hey!” Christopher said really loud. “That’s the song from Giggilan’s Island!”

Fortunately, I was off the monstrously busy Hwy. K, and had turned into a subdivision. Why fortunately? Because the unforgivable mistake caused me to hit the brakes, nearly propelling all three seat-buckled kids into the very radio that was playing, remember? The theme from “The Andy Griffith Show.”

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CROSSROADS DECEMBER 2011

“What?” I said. “You think that’s the theme song to WHAT?” “Giggilan’s Island,” he said, real matter-of-fact like.

“First of all, the show is ‘Gilligan’s Island,’” I said. “Gill-i-gan’s Island.” Second of all, that is NOT the theme to Giggilan’s, I mean Gilligan’s, Island. It’s the theme to the Andy Griffith Show.”

“No, mom, it from ‘Gilligan’s Island.’ I heard it before.”

This is where I get myself in trouble. Do theme songs really matter in life? Of course not. Should I allow a silly argument like this to continue? Of course not. Did I morph from a typically wise and calm mother into an I’ll-get-the-last-wordif-it’s-the-last-thing-I-do maniac? Of course!

I wanted to leave no doubt in my son’s mind as to what was what. After all, I’m the one who grew up with these programs, and I’m the one who still watches them on “Nick at Nite” or TV Land.

“Gilligan’s Island goes like this,” I said. “Just sit right back and you’ll hear a tale, a tale of a fateful trip, that started from this tropic port, aboard this tiny ship.” I’ll spare you the rest of the song, but believe you me, I sang the entire song. The desire to be holy flew out the van window, and was promptly replaced by the desire to be right.

It’s something I’m foolishly proud of. I couldn’t recite the preamble to our nation’s constitution if you offered to pay my children’s college tuition, nor could I remember more than the first line to the Gettysburg Address, but I can sing every syllable of Gilligan’s Island, by golly!

Later that evening I knelt beside Christopher’s bed, apologized for the desire to rub in (grind in is more like it) the whole Gilligan vs. Andy Griffith theme song thing, and asked for his forgiveness.

Hmm…maybe the whole desire-to-be-holy thing didn’t fly out the van window that day after all.

AROUND TOWN

Holiday Travel Tips Spending Christmas away from home? Travel Leaders offers tips for traveling like a pro.

“Travel Leaders reminds consumers that the busiest days at America’s airports are those immediately before or after a major holiday, so if you can avoid those days or travel on the holiday itself, you’re likely to not only find greater availability for airline seats, but you’re also more likely to find less hectic airports, too,” said Roger E. Block, CTC, president of Travel Leaders Franchise Group. “Regardless of the day you travel, you will want to allow more time than normal in arriving at the airport – that’s because millions of infrequent travelers will be flying, too, and their relative familiarity with airport check-ins and security screenings could impact the amount of time needed to get you to your gate on time.”

Travel Leaders’ travel agent experts throughout the United States offer the following tips to pass through security quickly during the upcoming holiday season. Upon approach at airport security checkpoints, be prepared to: • Remove your coat or jacket and your shoes and place them in security trays for screening. Children are usually subject to these rules as well, and may need help with their coats and shoes.

Frequent travelers often opt for slip-on shoes like loafers to speed through the process; lace-up shoes can be difficult to take on and off.

• Secure all liquids or gels in your carry-on bag in a clear, quartsize plastic bag and place it in a security tray. If you forget to prepare this bag at home, most airports have bags available at security checkpoints. Remember, each container of liquid or gel can be no more than three ounces, or it will be confiscated. The TSA refers to this rule as 3-1-1, meaning three ounce liquids or gels allowed in a single (one) one-quart bag.

Frequent travelers make sure that this bag is easy to reach upon approach to the security checkpoint and may even have it out before they approach.

• Empty your pockets of change, keys, cell phones, combs, eyeglasses, etc., and put these items in a small security tray for screening. If you’re wearing a belt, you may also be asked to remove it as well.

Frequent travelers further help to speed up this process by minimizing the number of items they have to place in security trays.

They often place these items into their carry-on bags prior to their approach through security screening.

• Remove any computers or other large electronics (video game consoles, remote-control toys, etc.) from your carry-on bag.

Frequent travelers have purchased TSA-approved computer bags so they don’t have to remove their laptops for screening.

• You may be in a hurry, but double-check that you’ve collected all of your belongings from the security trays before you leave the security checkpoint.

Frequent travelers will already have minimal items to retrieve because they’ve planned ahead.

Finally, Block added, “Be sure to pack your patience while traveling for the holidays. After all, your holiday spirit can depend on it.”

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2011 Holiday Movie Preview

ENTERTAINMENT

BY STEVE BRYAN

Thus far, 2011 has been a fairly disappointing year for movies, with big budget failures like “Cowboys & Aliens” and high-profile films like Mel Gibson’s “The Beaver” barely making a ripple at the box office. Even “Tower Heist,” the muchanticipated Ben Stiller/Eddie Murphy team-up, failed to beat “Puss in Boots” at the box office.

The colder weather, however, is an indication that the holiday movie season has begun. Here’s a list of notable films scheduled for release between now and the end of the year. As always, release dates are subject to last minute changes and revisions.

“Arthur Christmas” (November 23, 2011) Starring the voice talents of: James McAvoy, Hugh Laurie, Bill Nighy, Jim Broadbent, Imelda Staunton, Ashley Jensen, Will Sasso and Ramona Marquez A film that offers another look at the inner workings of the North Pole, “Arthur Christmas” is the story of Santa’s over-eager son Arthur.

This year, Arthur has to complete a special mission before Christmas morning.

“New Year’s Eve” (December 9, 2011) Starring: Halle Berry, Jessica Biel, Jon Bon Jovi, Abigail Breslin, Chris ‘Ludacris’ Bridges, Robert “The Sitter” De Niro, Josh Duhamel, Zac Efron and Hector Elizondo Garry Marshall, the man who brought us “Valentine’s Day” in 2010, returns to tell the tale of another romantic holiday. “New Year’s Eve” features some very familiar faces in stories surrounding December 31, a day of hope, renewal and, in many cases, extreme frustration.

“The Sitter” (December 9, 2011) Starring: Jonah Hill, Ari Graynor, Max Records, Kevin Hernandez and J.B. Smoove

Jonah Hill joins the legion of cinematic babysitters in this urban adventure. Hill plays Noah, a suspended college student who ends up babysitting the three kids next door. What should have been a simple evening with the children involves a trip into the city, violence and exploding toilets.

“Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy” (December 9, 2011) Starring: Gary Oldman, Colin Firth, Tom Hardy, John Hurt and Toby Jones Gary Oldman leads a top-notch cast in this adaptation of John LeCarre’s best-selling novel.

Oldman plays George Smiley, a career spy with the British Secret Intelligence Service (SIS) who is dismissed from his duties. When a mole infiltrates the SIS, Smiley is reinstated in order to track down the inside man.

“Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol” (December 21, 2011) Starring: Tom Cruise, Jeremy Renner, Simon Pegg, Ving Rhames and Paula Patton Tom Cruise returns as Ethan Hunt, leader of the Impossible Mission Task Force (IMF). After the IMF is implicated in a bombing plot, Hunt and his team have to off the grid to clear their names. They have no back office support and are doing this one on their own.

“The Adventures of Tintin” (December 21, 2011) Starring the voices of: Jamie Bell, Andy Serkis, Daniel Craig, Simon Pegg and Nick Frost Steven Spielberg brings a beloved Belgian children’s character to life in this animated adventure. Voiced by “Billy Elliot” star Jamie Bell, Tintin is a young reporter who travels the world in search of a story, always accompanied by his faithful terrier Snowy.

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AROUND TOWN

DECEMBER 2011 CrossRoads Magazine

COMMUNITY CALENDAR Every Wednesday

Bread for Life Food Pantry The Bread for Life Food Pantry is located at 102 South Lincoln Drive in Troy.

The pantry is open from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. every Wednesday except for the last Wednesday of each month when the hours are 4 – 6:30 p.m. For more information, please call 636.528.3646.

December 3

Breakfast with Santa Join Santa for donuts and milk or juice followed by a craft and fun games at Progress Park Center in Wentzville.

Each child will have individual time with Santa for parents to take pictures.

The event will be held from 9 – 10 a.m.

The cost is $8 for residents ages 2 and older and $11 for nonresidents 2 and older. Children under the age of 2 are free but need to register. For more information, please call the Wentzville Parks and Recreation Department at 636.332.9236.

December 4

Lake Saint Louis Holiday Home Tour The Holiday Home Tour is a one-of-akind opportunity to gain VIP access to a selection of beautiful and uniquely decorated homes within the Lake Saint Louis community. The homes, which range in size and style, are decorated 10

CROSSROADS DECEMBER 2011

for the holiday season by talented and generous homeowners. The cost is $10 per ticket and the tour hours are 5 – 8 p.m. Advance tickets can be purchased at The Wharf Pharmacy, 2175 E. Terra Lane or the UPS Store, 6290 Ronald Reagan Drive, or online at www.lslmothersclub.com. On the day of the tour, tickets can also be purchased at any of the tour homes.

December 9

1980s Trivia Night Wentzville Parks and Recreation is offering a trivia night for adults 21 and older at Progress Park Center. The theme is the 1980s decade. Trivia night will consist of 10 rounds with 10 questions in each round. “Mulligans” are available for each table to purchase. A light snack and beverages will be provided. An award will be given for the best 80s themed table. There will be 1980s sport and movie collectible silent auction. The cost is $120 for tables of eight. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. For more information, please call the Wentzville Parks and Recreation Department at 636.332.9236.

December 11

Troy Garden Club Holiday Home Tour The Troy Garden Club will host the Annual Holiday Home Tour from 1 –

To see your organization’s event listed here, please contact us.

E-mail: cnews@centurytel.net Fax: 636.379.1632 Mail: 2139 Bryan Valley Commercial Dr. O’Fallon, MO 63366

4 p.m. Tickets are limited to 300 and are available at Troy Flower Shop and Peoples Bank & Trust. The tour will begin at McCoy & Blossom Funeral Home. Refreshments will be served at noon at McCoy & Blossom. For more information, contact Carla Emert at 636.528.8528.

December 16

H.O.P.P. Night Hangin’ Out at Progress Park (H.O.P.P.) has become a fun and safe place for kids to spend some time with their friends. The event will be held from 7 – 9 p.m. and is for kids in grades six through eight. The fee is $3, payable at the door. We require everyone to stay the whole time unless signed out by an adult. For more information, please call the Wentzville Parks and Recreation Department at 636.332.9236.

December 17

Cribbage Card Playing Enjoy an afternoon of Cribbage in a relaxed, fun and friendly style of play.

Open to all skill levels. Play 4-handed partner games. The event will take place from 1 to 4 p.m. at Bandana’s Bar-B-Q, I-70 at Exit 208 (South Service Road) in Wentzville. Please register by email 512barbore@centurytel.net, or call Bud Arbore at 636.463.2978.

AROUND TOWN

Holiday Safety Tips CSA International is a leading provider of product testing and certification services.

The organization tests products for compliance to national and international standards, and issues certification marks for qualified products. CSA offers the following indoor and outdoor holiday safety tips: • Keep warm air registers, return air openings, space heaters and baseboards clear of furniture, rugs and drapes to allow free air movement.

• Clean or replace your furnace filter frequently during the heating season.

• Do not use your gas fireplace if the glass panel is removed, cracked or broken. These glass panels and frame assemblies should only be replaced by a qualified service person.

• Have a qualified heating contractor perform a yearly maintenance check of your furnace and venting system.

• Do not store combustible materials such as paper, chemicals, paint, rags and cleaning products near your gas furnace.

• Do not store or use gasoline or other flammable vapors and liquids in the vicinity of your gas furnace or gas water heater.

• Ensure that there is a free flow of air to the furnace. Keep the area immediately around your furnace clear by removing any obstructions.

• Before reusing indoor and outdoor light strings check and discard if they have frayed cords, cracks in lamp holders or loose connections.

• Unplug the light string before replacing

a bulb. Also, check that the replacement bulb matches the voltage and wattage of the original light.

• Always turn off indoor holiday lighting before going to bed or leaving your home.

• Never connect more than one extension cord together; instead use a single cord that is long enough to reach to the outlet without stretching.

• Avoid using a cord that is too long for the job because a coiled or tangled cord can overheat and can also be a tripping hazard.

• Never run an electrical cord through a doorway. If the door closes on the cord, the insulation could be damaged. Similarly, never run an electrical cord under a carpet or rug. When people walk over the rug the weight and friction could damage the cord, increasing the risk of fire or electric shock.

Outdoor holiday safety tips include: • Make sure light strings and cords, spot-

lights and floodlights are certified and marked for outdoor use.

• Turn off the electricity supply outlet before working with outdoor wiring.

• When hanging lights, keep electrical connectors off the ground and away from metal eaves troughs. Use insulated tape or plastic clips instead of metal nails or tacks to hold them in place.

• Use a certified outdoor timer to switch lights on and off. Lights should be turned on after 7p.m. to avoid the “electricity rush hour.”

• Bring outdoor lights inside following the holidays so they are not damaged by extended exposure to harsh weather conditions.

• Using a ladder when you put up lights?

Choose the correct ladder for the job. Look for the CSA mark to ensure your portable ladder is CSA certified.

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DECEMBER 2011 CROSSROADS 11

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WENTZVILLE - Chamber News

BY TONY MATHEWS

Award Winners from the Taste of Wentzville Autumn Festival

Frank Klaas, event Chairman, presented Dean Loughlin, West Allen Grill, with the 2011 Taste of Wentzville People’s Choice Award.

Thank you to the more than 400 people who attended our Annual Taste of Wentzville Autumn Festival on Thursday, September 22, 2011!

Each year those in attendance are asked to select a People’s Choice Award Winner and a Best Decorated Booth Winner. We are proud to announce the 2011 People’s Choice Award goes to West Allen Grill and our 2011 Best Decorated Booth Award goes to the Wentzville Community Club. Mama’s Grill received Second Place and Olive Garden received Third Place in the People’s Choice ballots. Congratulations to all our winners!

This event is a partnership between the Wentzville Chamber of Commerce, Wentzville Rotary Club, the Wentzville Community Club and the city of Wentzville.

Wentzville Chamber Hosts Five Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies The Wentzville Chamber of Commerce recently hosted five ribbon cutting ceremonies for local businesses: Cricket Wireless, It’s All About You Therapeutic Massage, Mo-Joe’s Auto Body, Billy’s Roadside Bistro and Weight Watchers.

Cricket Wireless is an affordable wireless carrier, with unbeatable deals on cell phone plans and prepaid smart phones, including Android phones.

With Cricket there are no credit checks and no contracts to sign. They are located at 1155 Wentzville Parkway, Ste. 135, Wentzville, MO 63385. You may contact them at 636.887.0233 or www.mycricket.com.

It’s All About You Therapeutic Massage’s owner Shelley Reagan is offering a 60-minute massage for only $30 as an opening special. You may call her at 636.459.5488 for more information and to book your appointment.

Her office is located at 14 E. Main St., Ste. 101, Wentzville, MO 63385.

Mo-Joe’s Auto Body is a locally owned shop dedicated to excellent service at a great price. They do custom work, fabrication, collision repair, welding, lift and lowering kits, paintless dent repair, and glass repair. If it’s

broken, they’ll fix it! Their shop is located at 1011 Wilmer Rd, Wentzville, MO 63385. For more information please call, 636.327.7447 or visit www. mojoesautobody.com.

Billy’s Roadside Bistro is a near scratch kitchen putting a spin on typical bar and grill food. They are located at 1826 W. Peace Blvd., Wentzville, MO 63385. For more information please call 636.332.0556 or visit www. billysroadsidebistro.com Weight Watchers is dedicated to inspiring and helping you adopt a healthier way to live, so you can successfully lose weight and keep it off.

They are located at 1974 Wentzville Parkway, Wentzville, MO 63385. For more information please call 636.327.6802 or visit www.weightwatchers. com.

To see videos and find out more information about these ribbon cuttings please visit www.wentzvillechamber.com and click on the Wentzville Chamber of Commerce’s Facebook page.

Mo-Joe’s Auto Body

Cricket Wireless

Billy’s Roadside Bistro

Photos courtesy Wentzville Chamber of Commerce It’s All About You Therapeutic Massage 12

CROSSROADS DECEMBER 2011

Weight Watchers

Photo Op PHOTOS BY RAY ROCKWELL

Trot Turkey ckwell made his way

Photographer Ray Ro to beautiful Rotary Park on Saturday, November 19 y Trot! for the 11th Annual Turke

www.stcharles.rightathome.net

DECEMBER 2011 CROSSROADS

13

LIFESTYLES

Are Women Superior?

BY JOE MORICE

A famous TV analyst claims women are superior to men. I have no idea what a TV analyst does but I will begrudgingly admit this observation has a considerable degree of truth. Having had four sisters that earned better grades than I did gives it credence, in my opinion. For that matter, it wasn’t until I was in my mid-teens before I could even run faster and it wasn’t by much. I was thankful I could carry more hay bales.

They also all had great handwriting and could draw much better. My handwriting was so bad my teachers thought I belonged on the short bus and my artwork looked like a Rorschach test.

Modern women have finally made inroads into equality. They’re still suffering unequal pay in the work place but they’re getting closer to men’s pay levels every day. I’m sure they still have to fend off occasional workplace macho attempts on their virtue.

Having professional daughters, I’ve always recommended pepper spray as opposed to .357 Magnums.

Most families have both parents working to meet today’s income standards as listed in the popular book, “Yuppie Instructions for Success.” It mentions two story homes with plasma TVs, weird-looking luxury SUVs, boats, motorcycles and other expensive toys as well as domestic cleaning and lawn services by oppressed minorities. There haven’t been many stay-at-home moms until some were laid off due to our recent send-jobs-to-starving-countries recession.

One of my professional daughters is a single mom. In today’s world, they aren’t unusual. Had I been a single dad, I’m sure I would’ve failed miserably. I still can’t understand how she did this so well. My grandchildren are wonderful, but perhaps I’m prejudiced.

The more I consider this TV analyst’s contention, the more I see he’s right. But this only annoys me because he is connected with TV; a device I consider the be-all, end-all of evil Orwellian mindlessness. I knew “Father Knows Best” and “Ozzie and Harriet” were fantasies even before they became reruns. Mothers from my youth didn’t walk around large expensive houses in stylish attire all day. They sometimes wore baggy faded dresses and old shoes with holes for bunions.

They also worked all day and into the night keeping us in clean, patched clothes, cooking balanced meals and handing out childhood discipline that sometimes included a pretty fair overhand smack. Were they superior? Perhaps it depends on who’s defining it.

Long ago, women usually worked harder and longer than men at everything including how to look nice on Saturday night, should an occasion arise. They still do.

One only has to look at the facts when considering the superiority of modern women www.gibsonprinting.com www.gibsonprinting.com especially if it includes their patience with egotistical male bosses that believe women are merely token employees (even though they’re often smarter, better dressed and end up making their male bosses look good).

My own professional daughters are so much smarter than their male bosses it’s embarrassing, and I don’t claim that just because they’re my daughters. It seems some of today’s corporate ladder climbers are more into blind ambition than smart.

One might say the only real difference that some would label as male superiority is upper body strength. However, men watching a pretty girl stroll by in a mini skirt and heels probably negates this concept. It usually only takes a pretty smile to turn us guys into mush. The old adage, “A boy chases a girl until she catches him,” is profoundly true.

Yup. Superior. I can live with that…I think. The question is, “Can they?” www.laserlipoandveins.com 14 CROSSROADS DECEMBER 2011

AROUND TOWN

Tips for Buying Tech Holiday Gifts sunlight, and some consumers believe the (Family Features) When shopping for tech screens can tire or strain the eyes. gifts this holiday season, purchasing quality, For tablets, keep in mind that most tech highly-rated products will help ensure your lovers have a preferred operating system, gifts will be enjoyed. But even the perfect such as Apple’s iOS or Google’s Android. gadget can present issues.

Also remember that storage size is imporThe experts at The Savvy Shopper Blog tant — if your loved one saves a great deal (www.thesavvyshopperblog.com) suggest of photos and music files electronically, they researching in advance and purchasing serwill require more storage capacity. vice plans to protect your tech gifts. Here Laptops are their tips for a variety of popular items Size, weight, speed and storage are the on the 2011 holiday checklist: most important elements to keep in mind E-Book Readers and Tablets Photo courtesy of Getty Images when purchasing a laptop. For ample photo Consider your loved one’s preferences; do and music storage, purchase a computer they wish to primarily read, play games, acwith plenty of gigabytes. If your loved one streams videos, you’ll cess email or social networking sites? Or would they prefer a device need a fast processor and good speakers. Likewise, for video game that can do all that and more? use, make sure you have a quality graphics card.

Tablets and e-readers typically access the Internet via Wi-Fi, 3G While light-weight and small screen laptops are more portable, or 4G networks, or a combination of Wi-Fi and a network. While larger screens are better for video and gaming use. Models with e-reader models are offering more capabilities, tablets still reign subuilt-in cameras and microphones are great for video chatting too. preme in terms of multi-functioning devices.

Flat Screen TVs When determining whether you wish to gift a tablet or an e-readToday, there are many options beyond size and picture, such as er, consider the price. Tablets typically run from several hundred 3D technology and Wi-Fi capabilities. To get started, consider the dollars to $1,000, while e-readers start at less than $100 and run to following: several hundred.

—Plasma screens — Plasma screens display a wide range of colors For e-readers, consider either an e-ink or an LCD screen. E-ink and a cleaner picture with fewer instances of motion blur while screens mimic the appearance of printed ink on paper, while LCD retaining faster refresh rates. However, the screens are made from screens use liquid crystals to display colors. glass and therefore reflect more light. When purchasing a plasma —E-ink — The e-ink screen image appears just like a printed page screen, look for a model with an anti-glare filter. and can be read in bright light or sunlight. However, the pages ap—LCD screens — These screens are lighter weight and come in a pear in black and white and cannot be read in the dark. variety of sizes compared to plasma. They use less power and some —LCD screens — Bright and colorful, these lit screens can be read Furniture_Oct2011:Layout 1 9/13/11 11:10 AM Page 1 at night, but the screens can be difficult to read in bright light or Continued on page 17

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FOOD

A

Holiday Table

FULL OF FLAVOR

WITH PURE MAPLE SYRUP

(Family Features) Whether you invite a few friends for cocktails and snacks, or you’re hosting the whole crowd for a holiday meal, add warmth and richness to special dishes with pure maple syrup from Canada.

Maple syrup adds more than flavor and sweetness. All-natural pure maple syrup has been shown to be healthier for you than most other sweeteners.

The recipes here show how maple syrup highlights the sweet or savory flavors of holiday appetizers, a pork roast and dessert. And that lets you say Happy Holidays to your friends and family in a most delicious way.

When shopping at the grocery store, be sure to look for “100% pure maple syrup” on bottle labels.

For more holiday recipes, visit www.purecanadamaple.com or follow on Twitter @PureCanadaMaple.

Maple and Mustard Pork Crown Roast Yield: 18 portions 1 6 1 1/2 1 1/4 1/2 1/2

10-pound pork crown roast cloves garlic, cut in half lengthwise cup pure maple syrup from Canada cup red wine medium onion, chopped cup mixed fresh herbs (rosemary, parsley, thyme), divided cup Dijon mustard cup plus 2 tablespoons softened butter, divided Salt and pepper, to taste 2/3 cup chicken stock 1/2 cup butter Put roast in large roasting pan. With sharp knife, prick meat in 12 places; insert a garlic slice in each incision.

In bowl, mix maple syrup, wine, onion and 1 tablespoon herbs; pour over pork. Refrigerate 30 minutes, spooning marinade over

pork every 10 minutes.

Preheat oven to 350°F. Pour marinade from pan into bowl; reserve.

Pat roast dry with paper towels. In small bowl, mix mustard, 2 tablespoons butter, salt and pepper. Spread entire roast with mixture; sprinkle with remaining herbs. Bake 60 to 75 minutes, or until 160°F internal temperature.

Remove roast from pan to serving platter; loosely cover with foil. Place pan on stove; add reserved marinade and chicken stock. Over medium-high heat, stir constantly until reduced by half, about 8 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in 1/2 cup butter; pour sauce around the roast. If desired, garnish with fruit and herbs.

Spicy Maple Walnuts, Almonds, Pecans and Pistachios Yield: 2 cups 1/4 cup butter 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1 pinch or more cayenne pepper 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup from Canada 2 cups unsalted mixed nuts (walnuts, almonds, pecans, pistachios) 1 teaspoon salt Preheat oven to 350°F. In pan over medium heat, melt butter. Remove from heat; stir in spices and maple syrup. Add nuts and stir to coat well. Spread nuts on a cookie sheet and bake with oven door partially open, until golden, about 15 minutes. Sprinkle with salt. Transfer nuts to a serving bowl; serve warm.

16

CROSSROADS DECEMBER 2011

15

AROUND TOWN

Tech Holiday Gifts continued from page 15 models also feature LEDs, which illuminate the display and deepen blacks. But with the LCD, picture quality can be inferior, with slower refresh rates as well.

Video Gaming Systems Each year, manufacturers continue to improve upon video gaming platforms. With so many games and accessories, it can be difficult to choose between gaming systems. Here are the top three: —Xbox 360 — This gaming system features high-definition graphics and also plays DVDs and CDs, but users are required to subscribe and pay for online gaming.

—PS3 — With high definition graphics, this system also plays DVDs, CDs and Blu-rays as well, but it’s priced higher than the Xbox, and if a user wishes to play PSOne or PS2 games, they must purchase an adapter.

—Nintendo Wii — While the graphics aren’t as sharp and the system doesn’t play DVDs, users can get up and move while virtually playing tennis, golf and other games, making this system much more interactive. In addition, this system is compatible with the GameCube.

Protection — The Extra Gift Consider purchasing a replacement or service plan to protect your electronic gift. It’s important to know the difference between the two standard types of product warranties: Limited Manufacturer Warranty —Generally comes standard with your product purchase. However, this type of warranty will only cover a problem with the product considered a “manufacturer’s defect;” not products that fail from wear and tear; heat, dust and humidity; or accidental damage.

—Basic protection is limited, typically 90 days to one year.

—Manufacturers have been reducing the duration and scope of what they cover. Parts and labor may be split, so you could find yourself paying out of pocket.

Extended Service Plan (or “Extended Warranty”) —Builds upon the manufacturer’s coverage.

—Provides for coverage due to defects in materials and workman-

ship, including those due to normal wear and tear and environmental factors like heat, dust and humidity and, in some cases, accidental damage from handling.

—Coverage ranges from two to five years.

—Due to the “no lemon” clause of many extended warranties, if your gift cannot be fixed, it will simply be replaced with a new product or gift card for the value of your purchase.

—Can provide support 24 hours a day, every day of the year, including holidays.

To learn more about protection plans, visit www.newcorp.com.

Top Five Electronic Gifts Most Likely to Fail N.E.W. Customer Service Companies provides the following list of holiday gifts most likely to fail: 1. Video game consoles 2. LCD screens 3. MP3 players 4. Laptops 5. Digital cameras

www.rhf.org

Wishing you the

Happiest of Holidays & a Wonderful New Year 636-379-3426

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DECEMBER 2011 CROSSROADS 17

AROUND TOWN

LAKE SAINT LOUIS - DARDENNE PRAIRIE

BY GENA BREYNE Chamber News As we approach the holidays, I would like to challenge everyone to shop local. The stores and businesses in our area are filled with a little something for everyone.

When you are considering your gift giving, this holiday season and beyond, please support the men and women who provide products and services in our community. How can you do this? It is time to think outside of the box.

Who says a gift needs to fit in a box, wrapped in wrapping paper?

Everyone gets their hair cut or styled. Why not give them the surprise of a gift certificate from your local hair salon or barber? How about man’s best friend? A certificate for a dog washing or grooming would be the perfect gift.

As we get closer to the New Year, everyone starts thinking about health improvement - how about a gym membership to a local gym?

Who would not appreciate getting their car detailed? Perhaps the grateful gift receiver would like their driveway sealed, or lawn mowed in the summer or their driveway plowed or even a round of golf at the local golf course.

The Lake Saint Louis Dardenne Prairie Area is loaded with great eating establishments from fast serve to sit down dining. All of these establishments offer gift certificates for every need.

How many people could use an oil change or service for their car, truck or motorcycle - done in a locally owned and operated shop?

If you are thinking about a real heartfelt gift for Mom how about the services of a local cleaning company or a day at the Spa? If your computer needs a tune-up you can find a local repair business to get it up and running.

Plan your holiday outings at local, Chamber member restaurants. Leave a nice tip for the community member that is serving you.

Please remember to support our local community and economy. This allows these local businesses to keep the doors open and the money stays in our communities. With more than 250 members, the LSLDP Chamber has something for everyone. Thank you for shopping local and Happy Holidays! For a complete listing of Lake St. Louis Dardenne Prairie Area Chamber Member Businesses visit www. lsldpchamber.com.

Welcome New Members Coldwell Banker Gundaker Becky Currie 2 Crossroads Plaza O’Fallon, MO 63366 314.249.1081 Goin Postal #255 Mark Wiegard 6311 Ronald Reagan Drive Lake Saint, MO 63367 636.625.3083

Jorens Family Agency Farmer’s Insurance Susan Jorens 2032 Hanley Road, Suite 230 Dardenne, MO 63376 636.755.5330 Karen L. Hammond CPA, PC 4650 Mexico Road, Ste. 208 St. Peters, MO 63376 636.278.4760

Petabalous, LLC Pamela Seyer 314.707.6076 Visor Benefits Justin Hill 85 Knowledge Ct. Lake St. Louis, MO 63367 636.541.1776

Ribbon Cuttings: RE/MAX Traditions Vicki Menne, Jan Fravell 1301 Edgewater Point Lake St. Louis, MO 63367

USA Mortgage Lisa and Dan McLaughlin 1301 Edgewater Point Lake St. Louis, MO 63367

Photos courtesy of Lake Saint Louis/Dardenne Prairie Chamber 18 CROSSROADS DECEMBER 2011

American Land Title Karen Taylor and Lori Williams 1301 Edgewater Point Lake St. Louis, MO 63367

AROUND TOWN Tri-County Family YMCA 2012 Strong Community Campaign The Tri-County Family YMCA recently kicked off its annual 2012 YMCA Strong Community Campaign. These funds allow the YMCA to provide direct scholarships to eligible children, families and seniors who could not otherwise afford to participate in the Tri-County Family YMCA activities.

The Tri-County Family YMCA is part of the YMCA of Greater St. Louis which has 21 branches and serves eight counties. Funds raised for Tri-County Family YMCA remain at the local branch. The goal for TriCounty Family Y is $25,000 during the campaign that runs November 1 through the end of February. “Our financial goal will help us to achieve our mission of providing programs that strengthen families and provide support to meet the needs of local residents. Making scholarships available for essential programs that reach all age groups is key to an overall healthy community,” said Claude Matthews, Tri-County YMCA Campaign chairman.

The Tri-County YMCA serves western St. Charles, Lincoln and Warren Counties. The generous donations from our communities will stay in our communities to help pay for memberships, youth sports and other children’s programs.

For more information on how you can make a donation or apply for a scholarship, please contact the Tri-County YMCA at 636. 332.5574.

Volunteers Needed If you can remember a time when a visitor brightened the eyes of a loved one during their last days or months, you should consider being that person for someone else. There is a very easy way to become that bright spark in the day or evening of a hospice patient.

BJC Hospice needs volunteers to visit patients in the home – especially in West County, St. Charles County and beyond. You will be giving the gift of friendship to terminally ill patients in homes and extended care facilities and relief to those caring for them. Visits are social - spending time talking, reading or watching television together. No medical care is required. Volunteers in the home may help by allowing caregivers to run errands or do something they have not taken the time to enjoy.

Volunteers are thoroughly trained by BJC Hospice staff before undertaking the visits. Hours are flexible. You may also share a talent such as photography, scrapbooking or beauty care with the patient.

If this type of volunteer work sounds like a fit for you and you’d like to set up an interview to find out more, please give BJC Hospice Volunteer Services Coordinator Eileen Spinner a call at 314.273.0762.

www.bankofoldmonroe.com www.bankofoldmonrow.com DECEMBER 2011 CROSSROADS 19

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