N I G HT R I D ER S
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2 | CROSSROADS | MAY 2018
MAY 2018
contents
VOL 14 | NO 5
Published monthly with newsstand circulation to Wentzville and Lake Saint Louis plus newsstands in O’Fallon, Troy, Lake Sherwood and Augusta. Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Mathew DeKinder Publisher Emeritus/ General Manager Robert Huneke Production Manager Rebecca Brockmann Contributors Avalanche, David Finkelstein, Cindy Moore, Russ Patton Photographer Ray Rockwell 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
Departments
4
Around Town Local news and events
8
Always an Adventure Detour through the mountains
9
Moore on Life The gift of gab
12
Simon Says Augusta, Missouri – “More than the Wine”
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Automobile Alley 2018 Hyundai Kona is a revolutionary entry into the CUV market
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In Focus Puppy partnership
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Food Refreshing recipes for a healthier spring
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Entertainment ‘Avengers: Infinity War’ is the culmination of all things Marvel
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Community Calendar: April
features 10
Night riders The St. Charles County Parks hosts monthly Friday Night Mountain Bike Rides for adventurous cyclists
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Copyright 2018 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 by Ray Rockwell
MAY 2018 | CROSSROADS | 3
Around Town
The ‘chess king’ learned his craft at the library
Photo courtesy St. Charles City-County Library
Wentzville Business Spotlight Scott’s Power Equipment located at 320 Luetkenhaus Blvd. in Historic Downtown Wentzville is ready to serve your needs. Owner Scott Muehlhauser and Manager Duane Vickers invite you to view their outdoor power equipment. The business since 2007 has offered Ferris commercial mowers, Estate mowers, and quality service for their brands and others. The business also provides a comprehensive parts selection for outdoor equipment. We love being a part of this growing community. Come by and see what the largest Ferris dealer in the U.S. has to offer!
4 | CROSSROADS | MAY 2018
Eric Liesman had a dream. Like many young people do, he saw a movie and wanted to be just like the hero. Was it one of the Avengers? Maybe James Bond? No, the movie that inspired 10-year-old Eric Liesman was “The Queen of Katwe” about a girl in Africa who learns to play chess and becomes a world-class competitor. Eric’s dream was to learn to play chess like Phiona Mutesi. With the St. Charles City-County Library, finding a way to learn was simple. Eric started attending the Saturday Morning Chess Club at the Middendorf-Kredell Branch (the same library where he had originally checked out “The Queen of Katwe” movie). Saturday Morning Chess Club is a regular event at the library where players of all ages and abilities gather to play and practice the game. This chess community is very welcoming, and they were happy to work with a new player like Eric. The group meets at the library every week, and Eric and his dad, Steve, enjoy learning and playing there with other chess enthusiasts. The Liesmans have other interests besides chess. Steve and his wife, Stefanie, are also involved in a charitable organization called Joy in Haiti. Joy in Haiti supports an orphanage, a church, and a school in the impoverished nation of Haiti (off the coast of Florida in the Caribbean). Joy in Haiti plans regular trips to Haiti to help work, teach, and spend time with the young girls in the Joy in Haiti-run orphanage, House of Joy. For the next trip, the entire Liesman family planned to travel to Haiti with the organization. One day, while playing chess at Saturday Morning Chess Club, Eric and Steve came up with an exciting idea. During their upcoming mission trip, they would teach the girls at House of Joy how to play chess. They committed to spending many of their Saturday mornings at the library practicing their game and started buying extra chess sets to take on their trip. A few months later, Eric and Steve introduced the game of chess to children at the House of Joy Orphanage and the New Christian School of Tabarre in Haiti. Despite language barriers and very different ways of life, chess helped connect the Liesman family with their new friends, and the lessons they learned at the library made it possible. Before returning home, Eric presented the students with the extra chess sets and encouraged them to practice so they could play together again someday. Eric Liesman had a dream, and the St. Charles City-County Library provided the resources to make his dream a reality.
Around Town
Climb to new heights with St. Charles County Parks Experience the forest from an extremely unique and rare perspective when you participate in an emerging adventurous sport – recreational tree climbing. Join the St. Charles County Parks and Recreation Department and Vertical Voyages for a twohour Recreational Tree Climbing course on May 6, June 30 and July 1 at Indian Camp Creek Park in Foristell. This must-do adventure is designed for novices ages eight and
up. Using the same specialized equipment that arborists and scientists use when they ascend into the treetops, expert instructors will teach climbers how to ascend into the certified, mature tree with broad canopies using special ropes and other safety equipment. The adventure begins with an orientation and ground school where climbers are fit-
ted with personal safety equipment consisting of a tree climb saddle and climbing helmet. After participants are geared up and trained, they use the remaining time to practice climbing and exploring the tree. Cost of the program is $35 per climber for a two-hour session. Pre-registration is required. For more information or to register online, visit www.stccparks.org or call the parks department at 636-949-7535.
All-inclusive playground will bring ‘Magic’ to Wentzville
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LET YOUR BUSINESS MEET OUR READERS Photo courtesy city of Wentzville Wentzville Board of Aldermen (from left) Robert Hussey, Michael Rhoades, Mayor Nick Guccione, Matt Swanson, Bryan Harr and John Luby break ground on Jake’s Field of Dreams Playground in Wentzville
Despite the chilly weather, more than 60 attendees gathered to commemorate the groundbreaking for Jake’s Field of Dreams Playground in Wentzville. The playground commemorates the too-short life of Jake Vollmer who passed away in 2012 after a battle with muscular dystrophy. This much-anticipated, all-inclusive playground will be located at Wentzville’s Heartland Park at 100 William Dierberg Dr. Construction will start this month, with a grand-opening celebration planned for mid-summer. Wentzville Mayor Nick Guccione opened the groundbreaking ceremony with several “thank yous,” to the community, board of aldermen and the various local organizations that supported and helped fund this important project. Alderman Matt Swanson was one of the project’s biggest supporters.
During his remarks, Swanson noted, “What we are creating here is a place where barriers that limit play will not exist.” Concluding the ceremony, Jake’s father, Jim Vollmer, stepped up to the microphone to speak about the importance of Jake’s Field of Dreams. Jake, like so many other little boys, was an avid sports enthusiast. This sportsthemed playground will help so many kids share Jake’s dream — no matter their ability — to enjoy the thrill of being on the field as a player side-by-side with their peers. “It’s simply magical and we’re so excited that magic is going to happen now here in Wentzville,” said Vollmer. Additionally, during the ceremony, the Gloria Ehll family presented a $15,000 donation to pay for additional music features at the playground.
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MAY 2018 | CROSSROADS | 5
Around Town
Cuivre River Electric announces Youth Tour winners Six local high school students will be attending this year’s National Youth Tour Conference in Washington, D.C. this summer. The top six-scoring finalists were Nathan Nordwald, Faith Van Horn, Madelyn Guss and Isabella Linstruth, all of Warrenton High School; Rishi Kondapaneni, Liberty High School; and homeschool student Jessica Jarvis. The final judging was determined during the 50th annual Cuivre River Electric Cooperative Youth Tour Final Competition and Awards Banquet held April 11. Six other finalists received $500 college scholarships. They were Garrett Overton and Christian Tebeau, both of Liberty High School; Tarun Jeevan, Submitted photo Francis Howell High School; Hank Kientzy, Silex The students who were named as Youth Tour delegates representing Cuivre River Electric Cooperative are (from left) Nathan NorHigh School; Jaime Mennemeyer, Troy Buchanan wald (Warrenton High School), Isabella Linstruth (Warrenton High School), Rishi Kondapaneni (Liberty High School), Faith Van High School; and Jared Heap, Warrenton High Horn (Warrenton High School), Madelyn Guss (Warrenton High School) and Jessica Jarvis (Jarvis Homeschool). The delegates will travel to Washington, D.C., this summer. School. Tebeau and Heap were named first and second alternate, respec- involved in politics, leadership positions, community service and tively, should any of the students be unable to attend. today’s pressing issues. This year’s National Youth Tour will take place June 8-14. The Missouri’s youth tour delegates will visit with representatives seven-day youth tour provides an action-filled week for delegates, from their congressional districts and tour famous monuments, offering them opportunities to learn firsthand what it is like to be the Smithsonian Institution’s museums and Arlington National Cemetery. Cuivre River Electric fully funds the participation of its delegates. There is no cost to students or families. “We are dedicated to serving our communities where our members work and live, through exceptional service and a number of education, outreach and leadership programs,” said Tim Schmidt, Youth Tour coordinator. “Each summer, the Youth Tour program provides six students from our service area a chance to visit our nation’s capital and learn more about government, leadership and cooperatives. We are excited for this year’s delegates to experience what many describe as a trip of a lifetime.” More than 100 students from 10 schools entered the preliminary stage of competition by submitting an essay. The top 12 students won the opportunity to advance to the final competition. In the final stage students took a cooperative knowledge quiz and presented their essays orally. This year’s topic was “What Do Cooperatives Mean to My Community?” Scores from all three contest segments were combined to select the delegates and scholarship recipients. Three teachers were recognized for submitting at least 10 student essays and were presented a $50 classroom grant at the Aug. 11 banquet. They were Amanda Franke and Kristine Heimburger, both of Warrenton High School; and Sonya Borders, Liberty High School. 6 | CROSSROADS | MAY 2018
Around Town
Ground breaking ceremony in takes place in Wentzville for new post office
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Photo courtesy city of Wentzville (From left) General Contractor Tim Wooten stands next to Gateway Postal Marketing Manager Kim Caldwell-Harvey, Land Owner Kamal Jagarlamudi, Gateway Postal District Manager Charley Miller, Wentzville Mayor Nick Guccione, U.S. Congressman, 3rd District of Missouri Blaine Luetkemeyer, Wentzville Postmaster Jeff Meyer and Wentzville Alderman Robert Hussey.
On the rainy morning of March 26, dignitaries from across the state gathered to celebrate the breaking of ground for construction of the new Wentzville Post Office. Charley Miller, Gateway District Manager for the U.S. Postal Service, and Wentzville resident addressed the small crowd of people huddled under the tent. “This new building will be a positive development for the U.S. Postal Service and the Wentzville community as a whole,” said Miller. “The larger building will allow for greater access to the public while better accommodating the increased workflow of our postal carriers.” The current post office has been in use since 1961 when the population of Wentzville was just under 3,000. Throughout the years, the city of Wentzville grew to the point where the original post office would no longer house Wentzville’s postal workers. Another building was rented about .5 miles from the main post office that provided space for the additional mail and employees. Today Wentzville’s population is close to 42,000 and the rented property is quickly running out of room. The new building will provide the much needed space for carriers and clerks to once again reside in the same building. “In Wentzville, we enjoy a way of life that includes the charming characteristics of a small town and the amenities of a dynamic suburban environment. Adding a new post office, which we’ve needed for quite some time, provides another great amenity for our community members,” said Wentzville Mayor Nick Guccione. Also in attendance was U.S. Congressman from the 3rd District of Missouri Blaine Luetkemeyer who said, “It was a pleasure to attend the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Wentzville Post Office. I am confident that this post office will benefit the entire community for years to come.” An official ribbon cutting ceremony will take place upon completion of the new post office which is expected to happen in late 2018 or early 2019.
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www.TaorminasFamilyRestaurant.com MAY 2018 | CROSSROADS | 7
Around Town Always An Adventure
Photo by Avalanche
T H RO UG H T H E MO UNTAI NS
“HOW’S THE HOUSE?” my friend Dale asked. He was calling to find out how conditions were around my neighborhood after he drove through torrential rains just a few miles up the road. “Fine,” I replied, as while it had been raining for over 24 hours, the showers had never intensified near me. Dale had just learned that the highway was closed, which was news to me, and recalling the mudslide that visited our yard a couple years back, wanted to make sure we were alright. He had to be back in town by the afternoon to pick up his son from school, and needed to know if he had to take the long way home, a four hour drive from his workplace. Figuring the best way to find out was to ask the workers on scene, so I suited up in good riding gear, and took Staci’s dirt bike (the best way to negotiate debris-littered roads) down to the highway and rode through the rain to the roadblock a mile away. A personable deputy in a yellow raincoat greeted me on the highway and noted my unusual choice of transportation on a nasty, wet day. He indicated that the highway department was in the process of clearing the road, but the hillside above kept shedding debris; it wasn’t known what time the road would be open. He suggested that my friend take the long way home if time was of the 8 | CROSSROADS | MAY 2018
essence. Back home, I called Dale and let him know what I learned, and he said he’d wait for a little while longer before he had to make the decision to leave work early and drive for a few hours, or wait and hope the road was open to lessen his commute to less than one hour. I was reminded of the old saw about “What’s orange, gets nine miles to the gallon and sleeps six? A highway department SUV.” While that might be true in certain instances, the crew assigned to this stretch of highway earns their pay, every day, in any and all conditions. On this stretch of road, there are a baker’s dozen avalanche and mudflow chutes that regularly flow, and the resulting debris crosses the highway. These areas are constantly in flux, with the seasons only changing the makeup of the debris; snow and ice in the winter, with more mud and rocks in the summer. On this particular day, the debris was mostly rock (pictured above) with just enough wet mud to lubricate the mass, and enable gravity to do its work; namely, the ongoing, never-ending process of erosion, that will someday bring the highest peaks down to the level of the valley. It’s a big job keeping this stretch of highway clear.
One spring season, we were awakened sometime before 5 a.m. to the sound of trucks and equipment running. We discovered that the noise was actually from the highway department working frantically through the night to stabilize the riverbank next to the highway, which was quickly eroding due to spring runoff. Without their noisy, nocturnal hard work, the highway would have been swept away, and the valley would have been shut off for weeks until the road could have been rebuilt. Our pending complaints turned into effusive praise for the crew working through the darkness. On this day the road crew managed to remove the large pile of debris from the roadway, and got it open before evening. As for Dale, he opted to leave work early and take the long way home. Of course, the highway opened while he was about midway through his long detour. Such is life in the mountains. BY AVALANCHE
Avalanche is a functional illiterate who left the St. Louis area three decades ago in search of adventure. He enjoys motorcycling and all things outdoors. He lives with his wife and dogs.
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Moore On Life Nonprofit Profile
The gift of
Mother’s Day is coming and instead of getting mom coupons for an oil change how about ensuring that you’ll stay in the will instead of having all of your inheritance left to the cats. Think…extravagance. Get something for all those times she prevented you from skewering out an eyeball and wearing a pirate patch for the rest of your life by telling you to walk with the scissors’ pointy ends down. My kids got me a massage to show they care. I’d only had one before. I was timid when I entered a darkened room with mood music playing and immediately told to disrobe. “How about I just remove my shoes? Will that be enough?” “No, I’ll need more access to your body parts,” she said. “I’ll remove my jewelry, but the coat and sweats stay on.” I’m not comfortable being unclothed with an unfamiliar person touching my naked hide. I hadn’t been that exposed in front of a stranger since I shot out of the birth canal back in the day. But somehow I was finally persuaded to shimmy down to my bare essentials and take cover beneath the safety of a thin sheet. After tensing up to the masseuse’s touch,
I finally relaxed and listened to the nature music in the background and drifted off into the healing scent of lavender and mint and enjoyed my back rub. Next time, I’d be ready. Not so. The masseuse before was quiet and thorough, the next one was excessively chatty and annoying. “So how ya doing? My name’s Kimberleigh, spelled with an l-e-i-g-h not an l-y…giggle. Are you doing anything fun this weekend? Do you like clowns? I hate clowns, but I love shoes. Do you like shoes?” Without letting me answer, she attacked my back. “Now this is gonna hurt cause ya got some big ol’ knots in your scapulae muscle that needs loosening. You might feel a little pinch…” “AAArgh!” “That didn’t hurt did it?” I gasped to catch my breath, “Sweet mother, yes! It felt like you ripped my spatula muscle out by the tendons!” “Well, you are a very knotty girl. I’ll need to apply some pressure here near your lower back.” “Oooh…ow! Stop that tickles!” “Just let me know if you feel discomfort.” “DISCOMFORT! That’s way much lower than my lower back!” “Oh, you’re one of those shy ones I see. So,
tell me what do you do in your spare time?” “Well, I write a humor column.” “Oh really? Well then…make me laugh. Go on, tell me a joke. Say something funny!” “AAARGH!” “That wasn’t very funny. It sounded more like pain. Are you in pain?” “I’m pretty sure that was my kidney you just flattened.” “I think you’re awfully tense. You need to relax. Now, I’m going to push on this muscle and release some of that anxiety.” “ARRRRRGH! I think you just released a vertebra from my spine!” “Okay. I think my work is done here. Feel free to get dressed.” I wrapped the thin sheet around my throbbing body. Note to kids: next year I’m opting for the oil change. 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. MAY 2018 | CROSSROADS | 9
N I G HT R I D ER S
St. Charles County Parks hosts monthly Friday Night Mountain By Brett Auten Bike Rides for adventurous cyclists
I
t is an enticing twist on an age-old activity. The St. Charles County Parks are encouraging folks to load up their bikes, grab a light and helmet and hit the trails for some night riding. That’s right. Mountain biking in the dark. With the help of the St. Louis Area Mountain Bikers (SLAMB) and Gateway Off-Road Cyclist (GORC) a new season of Friday Night Mountain Bike Rides in a St. Charles County park will take place each month for the remainder of the year. And before you can say, “no way,” Karen Einig, a member of both SLAMB and GORC, said the word “danger” shouldn’t even cross your mind. “It is not even scary,” Einig said. “As long as you have sufficient lighting, everything will be great.” Einig said riding a trail at night is like riding a different path and many riders describe it as peaceful and others as adventurous. Riders can go at their own pace and do not need to complete the entire trail system. And, there is always the out-and-back option (turn 10 | CROSSROADS | MAY 2018
around and return the same way you started). Ed Gengenbacher, of St. Peters, is also a SLAMB and GORC member. He has been doing nighttime riding for a handful of years, and he too likes the variety of riding after dusk brings. “When you ride the same trails things start to become predictable,” Gengenbacher said. “This makes things unpredictable. It’s a different vibe.” Also, as it creeps closer to summertime and the mercury on the thermometer rises, nighttime rides give relief to our Midwest heat. “This can extend your ride time a little bit, and you can be the daytime temperature a little,” Gengenbacher said. “(Nighttime) is an extra thrill. Also, you’re likely to ride with different people that you don’t usually see. It’s open to everybody. You don’t have to be an expert on a mountain bike to ride.” The Friday Night Mountain Bike Rides are free, open to experienced cyclists and offer an opportunity to ride the area’s most popular bike trails after hours. Each ride typically lasts three hours; however, the length of the
trip is dependent on the environment and trail conditions, the number of riders, ability levels, and number of volunteer leaders. The rides begin at the trailhead of each park and signage is posted along the road to direct participants to the starting location. Riders must wear helmets and have a 600 lumen light to participate. Children under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. Riders have two options. They can ride in a group that comes with a leader or venture off on their own. Either way, a “sweeper” from SLAMB or GORC will hang in the back for even the slowest rider to make sure that every cyclist makes it through the trail and no one is left behind. “Anyone who wants to be led, just ask and we can hang out with them,” Einig said. “Usually, you see different groups break out, and riders in the various groups typically ride at their own pace but stop periodically at forks and turns to regroup.” Einig added that Indian Camp Creek and Broemmelsiek are better for beginner riders than Matson because of the more technical features that Matson offers but Matson is perfectly fine for experienced riders new to night riding. She also tipped her riding helmet to STCCP. “St. Charles has been great for hosting these,” she said. “Not a lot of counties offer opportunities like this. St. Charles County Parks is very progressive in having programs like this.” Registration is not necessary but encouraged. Attendees must sign in and out upon entering and leaving the trail. Additional items to bring along include a helmet (which is required), water bottle or hydration of some sort, and a cellphone. Also, glass containers are not allowed on the trail or in the parking lot. Those planning to participate should check the Rainout Line on the STCC Parks website, or call 636-707-0011, before the start time. Heavy rain, even days before the event, can make natural surface trails unusable. For more information, visit: Gateway Off-Road Cyclists (GORC) www.gorctrails.com and St. Louis Area Mountain Bikers SLAMB www.meetup.com/StLouis-Mountain-Bikers, and of course, www.stccparks.org and click on the activity registration link. Photos by Ray Rockwell
ST. CHARLES COUNTY PARKS AFTER HOURS MOUNTAIN BIKE NIGHT Here are the dates, locations, and times for the remainder of the year. For more information, visit www.stccparks. org and click on the activity registration link.
May 4, 8–11 p.m. at Matson Hill Park 670 Matson Hill Road, Defiance May 18, 8–11 p.m. at Indian Camp Creek Park 2679 Dietrich Road, Foristell June 1, 8–11 p.m. at Broemmelsiek Park 1795 Highway DD, Defiance June 15, 8–11 p.m. at Matson Hill Park June 29, 8–11 p.m. at Indian Camp Creek Park July 13, 8–11 p.m. at Broemmelsiek Park Aug. 3, 8–11 p.m. at Matson Hill Park Aug. 17, 8–11 p.m. at Indian Camp Creek Park Aug. 31, 8–11 p.m. at Broemmelsiek Park Sept. 14, 7:30–10:30 p.m. at Matson Hill Park Sept. 28, 7:30–10:30 p.m. at Indian Camp Creek Park Oct. 12, 6:30–9:30 p.m. at Broemmelsiek Park Oct. 26, 6:30–9:30 p.m. at Matson Hill Park Nov. 9, 6:30–9:30 p.m. at Indian Camp Creek Park Nov. 30, 6:30–9:30 p.m. at Broemmelsiek Park Dec. 14, 6:30–9:30 p.m. at Bangert Island 1704 South River Road, St. Charles Dec. 28, 6:30–9:30 p.m. at Bangert Island MAY 2018 | CROSSROADS | 11
Simon Says
AUGUSTA, MISSOURI – By Laurie Simon
“ More than the Wine”
L
ast month in our cover story of Crossroads you were introduced to the Plein Air art festival in Augusta and all of the beauty that comes from artists painting the beautiful town and surrounding areas. What you didn’t learn though is all what the tiny town of Augusta has to offer, and how it’s much more than the wine. While Augusta happens to be the first designated wine district in the United States, (beat that, California!) it also has so many more things to do and explore other than a visit to the wineries. Once upon a time I thought that was all Augusta had to offer, wineries. Then my parents happened to move to the tiny town to run a business and I got to take a closer look at this amazing “Norman Rockwell” kind of town, tucked right inside Missouri wine country. So, if you plan to take a trip down highway 94 to beautiful Augusta, I strongly suggest adding these places to your must visit list…
SHOPPING The Cranberry Cottage – located in an adorable old home on Walnut Street, The Cranberry Cottage offers unique farm, cottage and vineyard inspired home décor and furniture, with many items being made lo12 | CROSSROADS | MAY 2018
cally. This charming store has perfect gifts for weddings and housewarmings, or you may just find the perfect item for you and your home! The Cranberry Cottage also runs a barn quilt operation called Heritage Barn Quilts. If you’re ever in need of a barn quilt or are curious as to what they are (I was!) then I urge you to check them out as well. Hours: Fri-Sat, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Gallery Augusta – A family-owned business in their 36th year in operation is something to be said about this unique little shop in the heart of Augusta. Furniture, art and design pieces await you as you step into the gallery where everything is American made with items that are functional, beautiful and will last for generations. Decorator services are also available using the resources available. With new merchandise always arriving and free delivery within a 60-mile radius of Augusta, I suggest you give Gallery Augusta a walk through next time you’re in town. Hours: MonSat, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Stone Ledge Antiques – If you haven’t been to this ginormous antique store, you MUST put this on your “what to do in Augusta” list. This amazing, three-story antique store is like a step back in time with the thou-
Simon Says sands of items that line their walls and floors. Featuring a unique collection of decorative furniture and accessories, from rustic and organic to classy and elegant. Finishing touches for your home include antique mirrors, new furniture, beautiful chandeliers, custom pillows, candle lanterns, rugs and holiday decor. Find the perfect pieces to accessorize a table top or add color and interest to a whole room or just step in to reminisce of a time long gone but kept alive by Stone Ledge Antiques. Hours: Wed-Sun, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
DINING Kate’s Coffee – Sure, you can always get lunch at any of the wineries in town, but if you want something truly wonderful give Kate’s Coffee a shot. Set in a historic home on Walnut Street this coffee house serves a small, but delicious menu. With breakfast and lunch options as well as killer ice tea and fresh coffee, cappuccino, espresso, etc., they have something for everyone! Eat indoors or out on the patio, they will serve you with amazing food and friendly service. The owners of Kate’s Coffee have outdone themselves on giving the town of Augusta its own place to meet for coffee and lunch. Hours: Mon-Sat, 7 a.m. – 3 p.m.; Sun, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. The Silly Goose – Oh. My. Word. The Silly Goose has become one of my favorite places to eat and I crave the ever-changing menu. Fresh, farm-to-table cuisine with creole, southern, French and comfort foods that change to reflect the fresh flavors of each season, await you. Sure, you may find menu items such as their chicken and waffles that typically seem to be a constant on the menu (and are to die for!), but because the chef and owner decides to use the freshest and most local ingredients as possible, the menu at The Silly Goose is changing constantly, so make sure to check their Facebook page and website for current offerings. While you’re there don’t skip the dessert, you won’t be disappointed! Southern hospitality and the friendliest of service make the cherry on top for this restaurant. Next time you’re looking for a new place to eat, make it The Silly Goose! Hours: W, TH, SU, 5 – 8 p.m.; Fri-Sat, 5 – 9 p.m.
ATTRACTIONS Centennial Farms – Family owned and operated since 1854, Centennial Farms offers a picturesque setting to gather with family and friends to pick whatever harvest they may have in season. The farmstead is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a sight to see just in itself. Centennial Farms offers blackberry, peach, apple, and pumpkin picking, and in the red barn sell homemade honey, apple butter, candy and more. This is a great place to visit just for a quick stop in for some honey or to stay for a while picking the produce of the season. Hours and produce vary so make sure to check their Facebook page before heading out. Katy Bike Rental – Do you have a desire to hit the Katy Trail but don’t have a bike to ride? Well then look no further than the Katy Bike Rental! With two locations in Defiance and right on the “trailhead” in Augusta, you can’t go wrong with renting a bike from these folks. You can even choose from bike, cart, and tandem rentals to make your experience even more fun! Already have a bike? The
Submitted photos
Katy Bike Rental also offers parts, apparel, accessories, repairs and maintenance. If that isn’t enough, Katy Bike Rental also offers bike shuttle service and once the weather warms up they also serve ice cream, cold drinks and sweets. Bonus! Hours: M-SU, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
UPCOMING EVENTS Spring Roundup Dance at Harmonie Verein – May 5 Trivia Night at Harmonie Verein – Aug, 1 Harvest Festival, Swinging in the Vines, Winemakers Dinner, etc. – Sept. 21-23 Augusta Bottoms Beer Fest – Oct. 6 Candlelight Christmas Walk and Christmas Market – Dec. 7 Augusta Christmas House Tour and Wine Tasting – Dec. 8 Candlelight Christmas Walk and Christmas Market – Dec. 14 So next time you are heading towards wine country and wondering if there is anything to do in that breathtakingly beautiful town, you now have a few pointers on how to make your trip to Augusta “more than the wine”. Happy Augusta adventures! All info provided was obtained by business websites.
BY LAURIE SIMON
Laurie Simon lives in St. Peters with her husband and toddler son. When not rehabbing her home she enjoys weekends at the lake and spending time with family, friends and her two fur babies.
MAY 2018 | CROSSROADS | 13
Automobile Alley
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HYUNDAI KONA a revolutionary entry into the cuv market
Hyundai Motors is breaking new ground with an all new sub-compact crossover that’s built on a revolutionary ultra-strong underpinning. I’m referring to their 2018 Kona, a five passenger urban people mover. Manufactured with a modern and youthful outer body design coupled with sports-carlike driving dynamics plus advanced safety technologies, Kona also includes notable rolling infotainment features. This small Crossover Utility Vehicle (CUV) should appeal to a broad customer base. First unveiled at the LA Auto Show last fall, Kona was well received by auto enthusiasts from varying backgrounds. With this attractive vehicle riding on its new CUV platform, it’s the first time that Hyundai is entering the smaller B-Segment crossover arena here in the United States. I must digress for just a brief moment though! The second I saw the ‘18 Kona photos, I had to reflect back almost 20-years ago when I drove an Isuzu Vehicross compact SUV. At the time, and in spite of the fact that the Vehicross was a radical departure in respect to its overall styling, the Vehicross two door SUV really was quite unique on many fronts with cutting-edge exterior styling cues. Now, to fast forward with the new Kona in mind, I’m having a bit of deja vu because Kona’s exterior is innovating and leading edge, as was the case with that Isuzu back then! Kona’s aggressive body styling and low/wide beefy stance translates to confident steering. This CUV’s avant-garde looks will thrust adventure-oriented drivers to rate it high on their new vehicle shopping list. Kona tends to offer up its eye candy refined footprint with sculpted body lines, sporty contours and an athletic striking form. It’s dynamic identity and distinctiveness has an overall silhouette as nothing else on the road. Kona’s strategically placed outer protective “armor” thus combines a powerful appearance with futuristic looking bright LED lighting to create a high-tech demeanor. The front view conveys a powerful presence with its 14 | CROSSROADS | MAY 2018
cascading grille featuring a sporty mesh pattern. It’s then flanked by flared wing-like fenders that dominate the frontal area. The sideprofile design elements reinforce its tough and functional qualities. The rear lighting is configured and surrounded by a protective skin. In keeping with its adventuresome demeanor, a number of extroverted color variations are offered. The roof is finished with an optional color-contrasting scheme, providing contrast between the body and wheels. The vehicles interior is remarkably spacious and comfortable in spite of the fact that it has a low roof line. The command upfront seating is thus designed to ensure better visibility and comfort during long journeys, as well as easy ingress and egress of all occupants. The rear storage compartment includes just over 19 cubic feet of welcomed cargo volume. And what you can’t see is the extensive use of structural adhesives at high stress points on the body as well as all-encompassing usage of high strength steel for greater rigidity. Under the heading or powertrains and sold in 2WD or AWD versions, Hyundai offers two different gasoline engines. Their standard 2.0-liter 4-cylinder Atkinson engine produces 147 horsepower and is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. EPA fuel usage numbers range from 28-mpg city to 33-mpg highway, depending on the model and equipment. Sold in four trim levels, SE, SEL, Limited & Ultimate, their top trim models are equipped with their latest edition of their Blue Link customer convenience services which is included complimentary for three-years. The pricing structure ranges from $19,500 to $27,400 for the Ultimate. Kona is named after the acclaimed westcoast region of the Big Island of Hawaii and is manufactured in Ulsan, Korea. It’s positioned in the small CUV category alongside the Chevy Trax, Mazda CX-3, Toyota C-HR, Honda HR-V and the Jeep Renegade. A battery/electric version is also forthcoming from Hyundai Motors.
BY DAVID FINKELSTEIN
David Finkelstein is a Master/ Skill Automotive Service Technician, and a shop owner. He’s also invented garage service tools for mechanics and has served on both National and local Automotive Trade Industry Boards. He pioneered “Car Talk Radio” starting out with KMOX/CBS Radio and hosted “Auto Talk” on KFTK/FOX News Radio for 15-years. David tests and evaluates new vehicles weekly and does some consulting with various auto manufacturers.
In Focus
Puppy partnership O’Fallon trainer and veterinarian join forces to help send trained, healthy service dogs to people with special needs By Brett Auten
It is a partnership that is paying dividends for those who need it most. Becky Flannagan, of O’Fallon, is a service dog trainer for Canine Companions for Independence, a California-based nonprofit organization that enhances the lives of people throughout the country with disabilities by providing highly trained assistance dogs and ongoing support to ensure quality partnerships. Dr. Marcy Hammerle, who operates The Pet Doctor, located at 2301 Technology Drive in O’Fallon, answered Flannagan’s call for assistance when she launched this rewarding adventure. “Before I got my first dog I sent out letters to every vet in this area, probably 40 total, saying that I am about to raise a dog, the first in this area, for the oldest and biggest organization that trains service dogs, would you like to partner with me, meaning this is expensive for me, would you be willing to give me a discount,” Flannagan said. “(Hammerle) stepped up and said sure. The other vets were either, ‘no,’ or there was no response and she said absolutely, I will help any way I can.” The pair has developed a friendship, and Flannagan says that Hammerle has been instrumental. “She is so very skilled in all of her techniques and her certifications, she is across the gamut of pure professional as you can get,” Flannagan said. “Compassionate, knowledgeable, she’s just the whole package.” Flannagan and Hammerle are getting ready to start their third puppy together. Hammerle was motivated to help because she feels that it is essential to give back to the community as much as one can. The Pet Doctor, who has been around since 2005, also provides free service for the O’Fallon Police Department canines. “Our mission statement for the clinic is all about supporting the bond between people and their pet, and when you think about it, there is no stronger bond between a service dog and their owner,” Hammerle said. “That dog is their life, and it helps them do everything that they do. It is the ultimate human/animal bond.” When it is all said in done, a dog from Canine Companions for Independence, which was founded in 1975, costs around $60,000
Photo by Ray Rockwell Veterinarian Marcy Hammerle, DVM BABVP, and Becky Flannigan, trainer, sit with Fallon the training dog.
when you factor in all of the training, but they are offered free to clients thanks to private fundraising. After their first eight weeks of life, the puppies spend 18 months with a trainer like Flannagan where he or she will learn a set of 40 commands that are basic and universal. After training is completed, the dogs then move on to CCI Team Training where more extensive skills like turning lights on and off, opening doors and pulling wheelchairs are learned before eventually being matched with adults, children or veterans with a disability, or professionals assisting clients with special needs. All dogs in the program, like Flannagan’s latest, Fallon, are Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, or crosses of the two. For Flannagan, getting involved with CCI just seemed like the perfect way to give back and to give thanks. “Hopefully, I get the opportunity to look Jesus in the eye and when he says, ‘I’ve given you so much, what have you done with it?’” Flannagan said. “I can say maybe I have done some good things along the way.” To learn more about Canine Companions, and if you would like to become a volunteer yourself, visit www.cci.org. MAY 2018 | CROSSROADS | 15
For the Love of Food
Refreshing spring recipes for a healthier Egg-Filled Avocado with Prosciutto Recipe courtesy of “Atkins: Eat Right, Not Less� Active time: 10 minutes | Total time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4
Ingredients: 6 ounces watercress or baby spinach 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar 8 large eggs 4 ripe Hass avocados, halved lengthwise and pitted olive oil spray 8 slices (about 4 ounces) prosciutto Directions: Place the watercress or baby spinach in large bowl. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and toss well. Divide among four small plates. In large skillet, heat 2 inches water over medium heat until bubbles cover bottom and sides of pan. Crack eggs into small bowl (do not use eggs with broken yolks). When a few bubbles have broken surface of water, gently pour each egg into pan, leaving room between them. Cook eggs, without stirring, until whites are just set and yolks are still runny, 2-3 minutes. Use rubber spatula to gently release eggs from bottom of pan, if necessary. Using slotted spoon, remove eggs from water and drain on paper towels. Place poached egg in each avocado half. Coat medium skillet with olive oil spray. Heat skillet over medium heat and add prosciutto. Cook until crispy, about 2 minutes per side. Transfer two avocado-filled egg halves to each plate and serve immediately with two slices prosciutto. Nutritional information per serving: 4.1g net carbs; 422 calories; 16 g total carbs; 11.9 g fiber; 18.5 g protein; 34 g fat.
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For the Love of Food
F
or many, spring is an opportunity to hit refresh on many aspects of life, including what you eat. Rather than instituting a restrictive diet that forces you to cut back on your favorite snacks and dishes, consider making simple changes that can go a long way so you can enjoy the flavors of the season without sacrificing taste or eating less. Fresh flavors abound during spring, and you can enjoy nature’s bounty while avoiding
hidden sugars by selecting highfiber, low-glycemic fruits and vegetables. For example, a single avocado contains 10 grams of dietary fiber in addition to healthy fat. Consider a menu comprised of recipes like EggFilled Avocado with Prosciutto, Avocado Kale Berry Smoothie Bowl and Thai Peanut Buddha Bowl. Learn more about the benefits of a balanced, flexible, low-carb approach to eating at Atkins.com.
Thai Peanut Buddha Bowl Recipe courtesy of “Atkins: Eat Right, Not Less” Active time: 15 minutes | Total time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4
Avocado Kale Berry Smoothie Bowl Recipe courtesy of “Atkins: Eat Right, Not Less” Active time: 10 minutes | Total time: 10 minutes | Servings: 2 Ingredients: 1/3 cup plain protein powder 1 cup plain full-fat Greek yogurt 1/4 cup water 1/2 ripe Hass avocado 1 cup kale leaves 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint 1 teaspoon stevia 1/2 cup fresh or frozen berries such as blackberries, strawberries or raspberries 2 tablespoons almond or walnut halves 2 tablespoons chia seeds
Directions: In blender, blend protein powder, yogurt, water, avocado, kale, mint and stevia until smooth then divide between two bowls. Sprinkle berries, nuts and chia seeds over smoothies. Serve immediately. Nutritional information per serving: 12.5 g net carbs; 356 calories; 24.2 g total carbs; 11.8 g fiber; 32.2 g protein; 15.6 g fat.
Ingredients: Olive oil spray 2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts (12 ounces total)
chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in center when sliced with a knife. Set aside to rest 5 minutes then shred.
Dressing: 1/2 cup peanut butter 3 tablespoons coconut milk 1 tablespoon fish sauce 2 teaspoons hot chili sauce 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger 1 tablespoon sesame oil 3 tablespoons hot water 4 cups baby spinach 1 ripe Hass avocado, thinly sliced 1 medium zucchini, cut into noodle shapes 2 carrots, cut into noodle shapes 2 radishes, thinly sliced 8 sprigs cilantro
To make dressing: In large bowl, mix peanut butter, coconut milk, fish sauce, chili sauce, garlic, ginger, sesame oil and hot water. Whisk well until smooth.
Directions: Heat oven to 400 F. Coat small skillet with olive oil spray. Add chicken to skillet and cook 3-4 minutes, turning once or twice to brown chicken. Slide into oven and bake 6- 8 minutes, until
Divide spinach and avocado among four bowls. Top with chicken, zucchini, carrots, radishes and cilantro. Drizzle with dressing and serve immediately. Tip: If you don’t have a spiralizer, you can achieve the same effect by using a vegetable peeler to shave thin ribbons. You can also use a mandoline vegetable slicer then use a knife to cut the strips into thinner noodle-like strips. Nutritional information per serving: 10.8 g net carbs; 427 calories; 18.1 g total carbs; 7.3 g fiber; 21.8 z protein; 30.7 g fat.
MAY 2018 | CROSSROADS | 17
Entertainment
‘Avengers: Infinity War’ PHOTOS COURTESY OF MARVEL PICTURES
is the culmination of all things Marvel
Marvel President Kevin Feige has spent the past decade reinventing the blockbuster movie franchise by essentially taking what has made comic books successful and translating it to the big screen. The formula breaks down like this: first you let individual heroes have their own adventures under the creative control of a talented artist (filmmaker) with a distinct voice. Next you create some superhero teams (like the Avengers) or guest spots where other heroes drop by for a visit in another hero’s individual story (like “Captain America: Civil War”). Then comes the big daddy of them all, the crossover event. This is where some colossal occurrence draws in pretty much every single character in said comic book universe and all kinds of crazy stuff happens, including some characters getting killed off. Behold your cinematic crossover event “Avengers: Infinity War.” The roughly 9,000 characters you’ve met over the past 17 Marvel movies are here crammed into a single film, and somehow – incredibly – it works. The reason everyone winds up not stepping on each other’s capes is because the movie’s focus is not on our heroes, but the villain Thanos (voiced by Josh Brolin), who we’ve met before, but never have we seen him unleashed like this. “Infinity War” is Thanos’ 18 | CROSSROADS | MAY 2018
movie. Thanos is a massive, powerful purple alien and what he wants is simple; to eliminate half of all living things in the universe to achieve what he calls “balance.” In order to do this he needs to collect six infinity stones, most of which we have seen as MacGuffins in other Marvel movies. If these stones are brought together they will give Thanos godlike power and the ability to carry out his genocidal plan with a snap of his fingers. Our heroes desperately try to stop him. The fun of “Infinity War” is seeing different characters we know and love get unlikely grouped together. It’s almost impossible not to enjoy watching Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.), Dr. Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) and Peter Quill (Chris Pratt) face off in a battle of egos. Or seeing Thor (Chris Hemsworth), Rocket Racoon (Bradley Cooper) and Groot (Vin Diesel) set off together on an important mission. Deftly directed by brothers Anthony and Joe Russo (Marvel veterans who helmed the last two Captain America movies) the battle scenes in “Infinity War” are all impressive, and even at a sprawling two hours and thirty minutes the movie bounces along without a bunch of filler. The finale is pretty gutsy by superhero movie standards and may prove to be divisive, but I suspect that things will be tidied up by next year’s untitled sequel.
At any rate, “Avengers: Infinity War” is a thrilling, nearly overwhelming cinematic experience that serves as a satisfying culmination of all that’s come before it. And just like that, we’ve all become comic book nerds. “Avengers: Infinity War” is rated PG-13 for intense sequences of sci-fi violence and action throughout, language and some crude references. For up to the minute reviews, columns and all things entertainment go to www. matsentertainment.com BY MATHEW DEKINDER
Mathew DeKinder is a film critic and member of the St. Louis Film Critics Association, and also serves as the publisher of the Community News.
MAY
Community Calendar 1 – MAY DAY
4 – SENIOR FAIR The Eighth Annual WASSI Senior Fair takes place from 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. at Wentzville Community Club at 500 West Main St. in Wentzville. Come enjoy a day filled with free information, free food, free entertainment, door prizes, bingo and shopping fun. Please RSVP for lunch by calling 636-639-2151. Leave a message with number attending. 5 – SPRING DANCE Sixth Annual Spring Social Dance Sponsored by K of C Auxiliary # 2273 takes place from 6:30 to 10 p.m. at Dardenne Prairie K of C Hall, at 2199 Post Rd. Cost is $15 and includes, snacks, draft beer, soda and water. There will be door prizes, games, raffle and 50/50. For more information call 314-795-5577. Entertainment by Scott Laytham and Karl Holmes. 6 – NATIONAL NURSES DAY 8 – TRUMAN DAY 12 – GERMAN SPRING FESTIVAL Midwest Maifest takes place at Legacy Park in Cottleville from 1 – 5 p.m. There will be craft breweries, wineries, spirit distilleries, food and live German entertainment. Limited presale wrist tickets are $20 and regular wrist tickets are $30. The proceeds benefit St. Charles-Ludwigsburg German Sister Cities exchanges. For more information visit midwestmaifest.org. 13 – MOTHER’S DAY 19 – ARMED FORCES DAY 25 – NATIONAL MISSING CHILDREN’S DAY 28 – MEMORIAL DAY
MAY 2018 | CROSSROADS | 19
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