vi n ta ge year
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AUGUST
2020 writers
VOL 16 | NO 8
BY AVALANCHE
Published monthly with newsstand circulation to Wentzville and Lake Saint Louis plus newsstands in O’Fallon, Troy, Lake Sherwood and Augusta.
Avalanche is a functional illiterate who left the St. Louis area three decades ago in search of adventure. He enjoys motorcycling and all things outdoors. He lives with his wife and dogs.
Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Mathew DeKinder Publisher Emeritus/ General Manager Robert Huneke
ALWAYS AN ADVENTURE – PG. 12
BY CINDY MOORE
MOORE ON LIFE – PG. 13
Production Manager Rebecca Brockmann Contributors Avalanche, David Finkelstein, Cindy Moore Staff Writer Brett Auten
Cindy Moore is the mother of three superlative kids, servant of two self-indulgent felines and wife to one nifty husband. Her ficticious occupation? Archeological Humorist: someone who unearths absurdity and hilarity in strange and unusual places including public restrooms, the lint filter, and church meetings. Most recently, she excavated a find in her neighbor’s bird feeder.
BY DAVID FINKELSTEIN
For advertising information, please contact us at:
Community News 2139 Bryan Valley Commercial Dr. O’Fallon, MO 63366 Ph: 636.379.1775 Fx: 636.379.1632
www.mycnews.com
Copyright 2019 Huneke Publications, Inc. No part of the publication may be reproduced in any form without the expressed written consent of the publisher. Crossroads is a trademark of Huneke Publications, Inc. Any published use of Crossroads implying affiliation is strictly prohibited.
David Finkelstein is a Master/ Skill Automotive Service Technician and a shop owner. He’s also invented garage service tools for mechanics and has served on both National and local Automotive Trade Industry Boards. He pioneered “Car Talk Radio” starting out with KMOX/CBS Radio and hosted “Auto Talk” on KFTK/FOX News Radio for 15-years. David tests and evaluates new vehicles weekly and does some consulting with various auto manufacturers.
AUTOMOBILE ALLEY – PG. 14
BY STEVE BRYAN
ENTERTAINMENT – PG. 15
2 | CROSSROADS | AUGUST 2020
Born and raised in South St. Louis, Steve Bryan is now based in Anaheim, California, and has been allowed access to movie and television sets to see actors and directors at work. Though his writing has taken him far from St. Louis, Steve is, at heart, still the same wide-eyed kid who spent countless hours watching classic movies at neighborhood theaters.
AUGUST 5
2020
contents
Around Town Local news and events
10
Feature Story A vintage year Augusta’s wineries press on in 2020 during pandemic with social distancing in the great outdoors
12
Always an Adventure A brief respite
13
Moore on Life Untouchables
14
Automobile Alley Kia’s new 2021 Seltos is a bold entry into the SUV market
15
Entertainment Remembering Robin Williams
16
For the Love of Food Make a commitment to more family meals
19
Community Calendar: August
On the Cover: Submitted photo
AUGUST 2020 | CROSSROADS | 3
Around Town
St. Charles County Parks’ Homeschool Days returns Aug. 26 - 27 The new school year is fast approaching, which means St. Charles County Parks’ Homeschool Days are, too. This learning and exploring opportunity for children and their families is from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Aug. 26 and 27, at The Historic Daniel Boone Home in 1868 Highway F in Defiance. Homeschooled children of all ages can acquire core school hours in a unique and safe environment while learning about life on the frontier through historic interpretation and demonstrations, such as black powder, historic construction of hand-hewn logs, frontier cooking, and fiber arts. The parks department has made changes in programming to make certain every precaution is taken to protect all who participate from the COVID-19
virus. Participants should be prepared to follow these social distancing guidelines at the August program: • Pre-registration is required to
maintain limited space for social distancing.
Home are limited to 12 guests at a time.
• Those entering the park must pass a temperature screening; no one should enter the park if they are ill.
• The gift shop will be limited to four guests at a time.
• Wearing a face covering is encouraged. • Hand sanitizer will be available; washing hands or using hand sanitizer before, during and after leaving is encouraged. • Personal water bottles are encouraged; water fountains are temporarily turned off. • Due to the tightly controlled environment of the program, groups of 10 or less will rotate through stations on an hourly schedule. These reserved times include: 10 – 11 a.m., 11 a.m. – 12 p.m., 12:30 – 1:30 p.m., 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. and 2:30 – 3:30 p.m.
WWW.DARDENNEPRAIRIE.ORG
• Demonstrations take place outside so that guests may properly social distance while participating. • Scheduled tours of the Boone
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• Instead of participating in hands-on activities in the park, guests will receive a take-home-kit with activities for participants to explore at home. During the program, guests can enjoy the park, have a picnic lunch and participate in the scavenger hunt or Boone Home visit before or after their scheduled program. Participants need to bring their own sack lunch and check-in at the information area in the park when they arrive. The cost of the program is $5 for each person who enters the park. To pre-register, call the park at 636-798-2005 or register online at https://bit. ly/2020AugHomeSchoolDays. A limited supply of Take-HomeKits will be available for purchase for those who are unable to attend.
Around Town
Experience the magic of marbling Aug. 22 at the Heritage Museum Guests of all ages can learn how to create handmade cards and extraordinary designs using water, paint, paper and fabric at “Hands-On Heritage: Paper Marbling” from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Aug. 22 at the St. Charles County Heritage Museum at 1630 Heritage Landing in St. Peters. Taught by skilled St. Charles County Parks staff, this hands-on workshop allows participants of all ages and creativity levels to discover the traditional art and rich history of paper marbling. Using various ripples of colors, guests will try their hand at designing beautiful historic patterns similar to those created by pioneers hundreds of years ago. Participants are encouraged to wear something they don’t mind getting paint on and arrive at the beginning of the program. To keep guests safe while participating in this educational workshop, the following social distancing guidelines will be required: • Those entering the museum must pass
a temperature screening to participate. • Social distancing is required. • Participants will be limited to two per table. • The program will take place outside if the weather permits. • No one should enter the museum if they are ill. • Wearing face coverings is encouraged. • Washing hands or using hand sanitizer before, during and after leaving is encouraged. This paper marbling workshop is intended for ages eight and up and is perfect for crafty
Submitted photo
individuals, scouts, families and other groups who want to learn more about the marbling process. Cost of the program is $5, and space is limited. To make a reservation for HandsOn Heritage: Paper Marbling, call the museum at 636-255-6000 or visit https://bit. ly/2020PaperMarbling.
Turning Point launches capital campaign to rebuild its shelter Turning Point Advocacy Services launched Safe Today, Strong Tomorrow, a capital campaign to provide emergency shelter now and well into the future for victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse. The Safe Today, Strong Tomorrow fundraising goal is $700,000, the costs related to the much needed repair, renovation and expansion of Turning Point’s current shelter in Warren County. Already, the organization has raised $465,000 in cash and pledges. “Booneslick Regional Planning Commission has partnered with us by assisting Turning Point in securing a Community Development Block Grant of $350,000,” said Turning Point Executive Director Linda Buschman. Buschman said other funding has come from the Department of Social Services’ Victims of Crime Act and other donors. With $335,000 still to raise, the organization is expanding Safe Today, Strong Tomorrow. “We’re reaching out to the community, to friends, contributors and businesses, old and new, and asking them to partner with
us to make this new facility a reality for these brave women as they begin a new life for themselves and their children, free from violence and abuse,” said Buschman. She added, “Women and children escaping abusive situations deserve a safe and welcoming setting that aids in their healing and provides a stable environment.” The existing building was not designed as a shelter. Small repairs have made it possible to remain open, but recent septic and foundation failures and noncompliant safety features, introduced a harsh reality. “We either needed to move or renovate. We decided it was important to stay because the need for our services persists in the area. But to stay, we needed to invest in the property for the long-term, not just make temporary repairs,” said Board Chair Tim Churchill, who is leading the construction project. The renovation, expected to begin by September, will resolve the structural issues and nearly double the size of the shelter. The new layout makes every space more useful
for living, programming and activities. Highlights include: • A small, closed kitchen will be replaced with an open kitchen with two meal prep areas. • Dining room seating to increase from 15 to 21. • Each level to feature laundry rooms, common areas for designated uses, “phone booths” for private calls and offices for staff and clients to work more closely. • The three dormitory-style rooms to be replaced with six sleeping rooms, each with a full bath and 12 additional beds. “With the community’s continued support, for which we are grateful, we’ll provide our clients with the stable, welcoming, environment they need to heal and grow into their promising new lives,” said Buschman. For more information about Safe Today, Strong Tomorrow or donate, contact Buschman at 636-456-1186 or exec.director@ turningpointdvs.com. AUGUST 2020 | CROSSROADS | 5
Around Town
Precautions THE BY
pool
While some aquatic facilities in St. Charles County are closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, others are open with increased safety measures in place By Brett Auten
The sounds of summer are ringing out, they are just doing so in a limited capacity. With Missouri recording its largest single-day increase in COVID-19 cases over the weekend, it is a reminder that things are not quite back to normal just yet. But in St. Charles County, a handful of outdoor aquatic parks are doing their best to provide a brief reprieve from the heat and the inside doldrums. Recently, the O’Fallon’s Parks and Recreation team announced new guidelines for Alligator’s Creek Aquatic Center and usage of the Renaud Center gym. Alligator’s Creek Aquatic Center will continue to require guests to pre-register for daily admission online at www. ofallon.mo.us/acac for three-hour-and-15 minute swim sessions online, prior to arrival. New season passes will not be available. Each session will be restricted to a limited number of guests. Session times available for reservations will be 11 a.m. – 2:15 p.m and 2:45 p.m. – 6 p.m. For the foreseeable future, the Renaud Center gym will not be available for open play. Scheduled activities, including pickleball, various classes, camps and volleyball will be allowed, but open play will not be allowed. CONTINUED PAGE 7 6 | CROSSROADS | AUGUST 2020
Around Town “As we have done throughout this situation, we continue to evaluate the data and guidance available to us and try to make the best decisions for our employees and guests,” Craig Feldt, Recreation Director for the city of O’Fallon, said. “We appreciate our residents understanding and their continued support of our parks and recreation activities, and we look forward to continuing to offer the best possible service to our residents.” The city of St. Charles boasts three available aquatic parks; Wapelhorst, Blanchette and McNair. “People have been very happy that we chose to open to give them an outlet for recreation and physical activity,” Maralee Britton, Director of the St. Charles City Parks, said. “We are abundantly staffed due to other cities choosing not to open this year. We have created a plan of operation to keep our guests and staff safe. The staff has been great and the guests have been respectful because they appreciate the opportunity that other cities haven’t been given.” All three aquatic parks had a staggered start with Wapelhorst opening on Memorial Day weekend followed by Blanchette, and then McNair. “We are probably at 50-percent of where we would be under normal circumstance,” Britton said, in regards to attendance. “By July 9 of 2019, we had around 66,000 visitors. We are around 38,000 so far this year.” Wapelhorst, located at 1875 Muegge Road, is limited to 600 guests. Blanchette, located at 1900 Randolph St., is limited to 450 guests. McNair, located at 3200 Droste Road, is limited to 375 guests. As for the rest of the year, according to Britton, a lot of that depends on the local school districts. “We will wait and adjust,” she said. “We are at the mercy of the schools. We have 132 lifeguards and they are all high school and college age.” The St. Peters Rec-Plex’s The Cove is closed for the summer as is the Troy Aquatic Center. At the Rec-Plex the atatorium (swimming and diving) is closed due to a major renovation project. Once the renovation project is completed, look for the Rec-Plex to reopen the pools in September. In Wentzville, the city’s aquatic facilities will not be among those opening this season. This includes both the Splash Station Aquatic Center and Progress Park pools. This decision was made out of an abundance of caution and based on a variety of factors including health and safety, staffing concerns and finances. “We know many of our residents and visitors look forward to summertime activities at our pools. However, we, like many communities across the country, are analyzing our programs and services to ensure we are taking the appropriate steps to protect everyone and to continue being good stewards of the resources we have,” Wentzville mayor Nick Guiccone said. “Unfortunately, this involves making tough decisions by myself, the board and staff related to the facilities, programs and events that our community has come to know and love.”
Submitted photos O’Fallon’s Alligator Creek Aquatic Center and the Renaud Center recently announced new guidelines for the remainder of the summertime. Among them, each session will be restricted to a limited number of guests.
AUGUST 2020 | CROSSROADS | 7
Around Town
Join the 2020 Walk to End Alzheimer’s Annual St. Louis Teen Talent Competition The Alzheimer’s Association is inviting St. Charles residents to join the fight to end Alzheimer’s by participating in the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s on Sept. 26. The St. Charles County Walk to End Alzheimer’s continues, but instead of hosting a large gathering, the Alzheimer’s Association is encouraging participants to walk as individuals or in small groups on sidewalks, tracks and trails across St. Charles. “Alzheimer’s is not taking a hiatus during COVID-19 and neither are we,” said Stacy Tew-Lovasz, Greater Missouri Alzheimer’s Association chapter president. “Many of our constituents are at higher risk when it comes to COVID-19 and we know that our volunteers and participants appreciate our commitment to keeping all involved healthy and safe. “This year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s will be everywhere,” said TewLovasz. “The pandemic is changing how we walk, but it doesn’t change the need to walk. With the dollars raised, the Alzheimer’s Association can continue to provide care and support to families during these difficult times while also advancing critical research toward methods of treatment and prevention.” Time-honored components of the Walk to End Alzheimer’s are being replicated. On walk day, an opening ceremony will feature local speakers and a presentation of Promise Flowers to honor the personal reasons participants join together to fight Alzheimer’s and all other dementia, all delivered to participants’ smartphones, tablets and computers To enhance the participant experience leading up to the event and on walk day, new features are being added to the Walk to End Alzheimer’s mobile app to create an opportunity for the community to connect. Participants can use the app and new “Walk Mainstage’’ to track their steps and distance, follow a virtual Walk path, manage their Facebook fundraisers, and access information and resources from the Association and Walk sponsors to help individuals and families affected by the disease. To register and receive the latest updates on this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s, visit: alz.org/walk.
finals will be broadcast by Nine PBS
The Fabulous Fox Theatre turned on their stage lights to welcome the finalists of the 10th Annual St. Louis Teen Talent Competition produced by the Fox Performing Arts Charitable Foundation (FoxPACF). The final round of the competition was originally scheduled to be performed in front of a live audience in April at the Fox, but it was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Thanks to a partnership with Nine PBS, the finalists were provided the opportunity to compete and perform on the Fox Stage for a special broadcast airing Aug. 10 at 8 p.m. Finalists include a variety of singers, musicians, dancers, aerialists, and a juggler. The acts were directed by Tony Parise, Broadway actor, dancer, director, choreographer and St. Louis native, who returned for his 10th year to write the script and direct the finals. Parise worked with choreographer Yvonne Meyer Hare and music director Steve Neale to prepare the young performers for competition and filming on the Fox Stage. The finalists are judged by St. Louis area arts professionals with careers spanning music, dance, and Broadway. This year’s judges are: Audrey Kwong (Operations Manager at the Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra), Antonio Douthit-Boyd (Co-Artistic Director of Dance at COCA), Carl Nappa (Grammy nominated Executive Music Producer), Taylor Louderman (Broadway Actress and 2018 Tony Nominee); Ken Page (Awardwinning Actor, Director and Singer); and Denise Thimes (Award-winning Jazz Vocalist and Recording Artist). Students will be judged on technical ability, stage presence, interpretation, and originality. The first, second, and third place winners will be announced on Nine PBS at the conclusion of the program. Following the broadcast, viewers are encouraged to join emcee Ben Nordstrom and last year’s winner Joanna Serenko , a singer/songwriter and Kirkwood High School Alum, who recently appeared on The Voice, for an online celebration on the FoxPACF website foxpacf.org. The online celebration will feature a special performance by Serenko and additional prizes and scholarships will be announced including voting for the $1,000 cash prize for the Audience Choice Award.
Missouri Secretary of State awards coronavirus relief grant to St. Charles City-County Library Missouri Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft announced the Missouri State Library has awarded St. Charles City-County Library a grant of $50,000 in order to respond to coronavirus health and safety concerns. “Missouri’s libraries are integral to the communities they serve and the resources they offer are vital,” Ashcroft said. “These funds help our libraries face the unique obstacles presented by the coronavirus so they can continue offering key services and programs 8 | CROSSROADS | AUGUST 2020
to their patrons.” The library will use the grant funds to install a 24-hour contactless holds kiosk at two of its branches. Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES) funds and Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) funds are used to address digital inclusion and related technical support or to address other efforts that prevent, prepare for and respond to COVID-19. The Missouri State Library received $554,569
in CARES funds and reallocated other grant funds to contribute an additional $432,800 in FY2020 LSTA funds for a total availability of $987,369 for coronavirus relief projects. The State Library has awarded $960,338 in coronavirus relief funding to 60 libraries. These projects were supported by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services under CARES and LSTA provisions as administered by the Missouri State Library, a division of the Office of the Secretary of State.
vyear in tage
a
Augusta’s wineries press on in 2020 during pandemic with social distancing in the great outdoors
AUGUSTA WINERY MONTELLE WINERY
By Brett Auten
T
he famed wineries of Augusta are still providing a needed breather from reality, albeit slightly modified from what we’re used to. By now, masked servers and plenty of room to stretch out have become the norm when dining out and the wineries of Augusta have rolled right along with punches. Increased cleaning procedures have been put in place and employee screenings and evaluations are going on everywhere. Jessica O’Connor is the manager of Augusta Wine Co. and handles the marketing for both Augusta and Montelle Wineries. Augusta and Montelle Wineries are open year-round and at no point did those two wineries close. Inside both establishments, along with following any St. Charles County, state, or national mandates, party size is a maximum of 10 people and there are floor markings and signage posted to help both employees and customers be mindful of each other and recommended distancing. Customers have soaked in the fresh-air ambiance on the outdoor patios. “We have a wonderful staff at both wineries, who are thankful to be part of that, offering people a place to take a break and enjoy the wine, the outdoors, the music,” O’Connor said. “With safety protocols in action, the employees have really stepped up to the plate to continue serving our customers. “ During the initial shutdown and stay-at-home orders, Augusta and Montelle offered shipping, curbside, and carryout only. Additionally, CONTINUED PAGE 10 AUGUST 2020 | CROSSROADS | 9
wineries were considered essential businesses, deemed as agricultural and restaurant and so the vines grew on. They have extended shipping offers for both in-state and out-of-state customers so they can safely stock up on their favorites by ordering online. “Some of the first quarter loss has been offset by offering shipping specials and case discounts for consumers to stock up for home,” O’Connor said. “Montelle, known for its sweeping views of the Missouri River Valley and multi-level decks among the shade, took a huge hit while those decks were empty during the first quarter, leading into the summer. As some on-site restrictions have been lifted there has been traffic but there will be a degree of sacrifice in the numbers to keep customers and staff safe with capacity limits, now and into the foreseeable future.” Chuck Dressel is the president of Mount Pleasant Estates, located at 5634 High St in Augusta. Mount Pleasant is available to rent out for wedding receptions but for day-to-day operations, Dressel hasn’t been comfortable with inside dining but has plenty of room to stretch out, which means they are as busy as the weather allows. “If it’s 85-degrees and cloudy, we’re as busy as we can be,” Dressel said. “If it’s 100 in the shade? It’s slow.” The summer started swimmingly with a safe, socially-distanced June. “It was great to see people out on the lawn on their blan-
10 | CROSSROADS | AUGUST 2020
kets, dancing together,” Dressel said. “People were enjoying life again and it was fun to be the place where they were doing it. I think a lot of people realized when they couldn’t go on their big trips, that there is plenty of stuff to do locally. The wineries fit right into that.” Dressel is looking forward to late summer and the fall when Mount Pleasant plans on upping the ante when it comes to live music. Javier Mendoza and Tim Cunningham will be making appearances in August. “We are going to be bringing in bigger draws,” he said. “We have a sprawling campus where everyone can spread out.” Though it hasn’t been an ideal situation, the people in the community are not easily detoured. Buckling up your seat belt and surfing the tides comes with the job description. “The wine industry is no stranger to the power of positive thinking so we’ll be putting good vibes out there for a more stable and safe future, sooner than later,” O’Connor said. “With the potential for increased traffic in the fall due to the nature of our industry, extra precautions may be in place. We are happy to be here for our customers and just ask that people continue to be mindful of the guidelines so that we can continue to be their oasis.” Submitted photos Augusta and Montelle Wineries have been open all year. Customers are now able to enter the tasting room and make purchases, including ordering from the Cafe at Montelle, to enjoy on the patios. Tables and chairs are set according to recommended distancing.
AUGUST 2020 | CROSSROADS | 11
Always An Adventure
A BRIEF RESPITE BY AVALANCHE
THE WIND HAD BEEN BLOWING FOR DAYS, with no relief even during the overnight hours. Awnings attached to houses were battered, with a few being taken down, either deliberately by their owners, or rudely twisted and flung to the ground by the relentless gusts. Lawn furniture was similarly put away, or put “out to pasture,” coming to rest wherever it happened to stop rolling, usually against a rock or tree or other immovable object. Tree branches large and small were broken and scattered on the ground and roadways. Windows partly opened to keep the heat down were battered back and forth on their hinges, with the crank hardware loosening up. A fine coating of dust covered everything in the house, reappearing within a few hours of being wiped away. Conversations were held indoors, in cars, or at least on the lee side of buildings, as it took too much effort to either yell or keep repeating the last statement. It wasn’t just the wind, but the heat was oppressive as well. Daytime temperatures were in the 90s, a rarity at this elevation. It was hard to believe we had been experiencing late season snow and having to cover up the garden plants with blankets just a couple weeks prior to the gusty maelstrom. The dogs didn’t care for the blast-furnace conditions either, as they spent their days 12 | CROSSROADS | AUGUST 2020
sleeping inside, instead of their favored locations in the yard. More than one of our newer neighbors asked if the wind was normal for this area. No, this was not even close to normal. Living in a canyon just downwind of a very narrow section in the valley, and at the intersection with another valley leading down from the higher mountains, gusty winds – sometimes impressively strong - accompanying storms are fairly common, but the days-long endless blowing that we’d been experiencing has only been seen in the last couple of years. One of our neighbors had managed a nearby motel in the early 1980s, and he recalled one summer when the temperature had hit 80 degrees around the 4th of July. No one could believe it, as temps in the high 70’s were then considered “hot.” Regardless of viewpoints as to how or why, there is no denying that weather patterns have changed dramatically, especially here in the mountains, over the last few decades. The forecast called for a chance of showers with temperatures dropping after arrival of the front. The wind increased that day and we went to bed hoping that windows wouldn’t need to be replaced after the storm had passed. Sometime after midnight, the wind calmed down and the rain began. Sleep came easy, and we woke up to
a soggy yard and clouds hanging low in the valley. Temperatures were in the low 40’s. Many of the neighbors were out that morning, having traded shorts and tee-shirts for long pants and puffy jackets. A sense of relief was shared by all. As the morning clouds began to lift, a light dusting of snow was visible on the surrounding mountains, all the way down to the treeline. As wonderful as that day was, it was but a brief respite from the severe drought in progress. Of course, with the extreme (by mountain standards) heat and lack of rain, the fire danger is frequently in the critical stage. Walking through the woods is a crunchy experience, with tinder dry dead leaves and pine needles covering the forest floor. Our neighborhood was able to procure a power-pole-mounted fire alarm which, with luck, won’t need to be put into service. We’re keeping our fingers crossed and doing rain dances to summon some moisture, which is seemingly all gathered in the lakes and streams of the Midwest. As I type this, it is 90 degrees, with 10 percent humidity and the winds are gusting to 30 mph; the forecast calls for even higher temperatures for the coming week. Our brief summer taste of snow is but a fond memory; we dream of more cool, wet relief soon.
Moore On Life
Untouchables Untouchables WE’RE IN A NEW PHASE OF LIVING NOW. IT’S CALLED THE “DON’T TOUCH ERA.” No-no’s include: any door handles or knobs; elevator buttons; bank pens; touch-screens for ordering; credit card machine buttons; shopping cart handles…basically anything that involves the use of your fingers or hands should be avoided. What this all means is that unless you bind your arms behind your back straight-jacket style and can float outdoors a good ten feet above this vat-ofvirus we call Earth, you should stay home and binge-watch Netflix while ordering through DoorDash for the remainder of your life. Things are complicated. In the old days, circa February, a person greeted another with a charming little custom known as the “hand shake”. This quaint old tradi-
tion involved human contact. A person would extend their hand and interlock it with the hand of another person. While grasping one another they would then move the hands together in a coordinated up down movement. Aww, our silly forefathers and their dangerous disease-spreading rituals. Today we are much wiser and sophisticated when greeting a person, such as when I recently met my friend for a social-distancing lunch. Me waving from six feet away: “Hi Fiona. How’s it going?” Fiona: “Sorry you must have me confused with someone else. I’m Wanda.” “Oopsie, my mistake. From this distance all I can see above your mask is your eyes and they look like my neighbor’s. Oh, there’s Fiona.” (I recognized her because after the virus hit, she never got out of her pajamas.)
“Hi neighbor,” she said as we approached one another cautiously. She extended her hand in a fist bump, but I already bent my arm to do an elbow nudge. She immediately pointed her elbow to follow suit, but in the meantime I have made a fist to bump her fist. We were thoroughly confused. I extended my hand to shake. She declined. We both knew that wasn’t right. Then she jutted out a hip in an attempt to bump butts, but in the confusion I lifted my hand to high five. She smiled and we smacked our hands together slapping flesh to flesh. “Uh oh!” Fiona’s eyes grew wide as softballs. My jaw dropped in disbelief. “Corona!” we shrieked out in unison then rummaged in our purses for hand sanitizer and squirted great gobs onto our palms and arms and tongues. We decided to FaceTime each other from home over a cold tuna sandwich. AUGUST 2020 | CROSSROADS | 13
Automobile Alley
KIA’S NEW 2021 SELTOS P
ositioned between the Soul Crossover and the bold-appearing Sportage, the all-new 2021 Seltos is Kia Motors latest entry in this popular fast growing sport utility segment. Imported from Korea, Seltos includes a welcomed level of ruggedness and basic refinement within the subcompact SUV category. Offered in five trim levels: LX, EX, S 2.0L, S 1.6T and SX, the Seltos LX includes all-wheeldrive with a base price point of $22,000. Similar to Kia’s larger three-row, award-winning Telluride, the design theme is an engineering blend of their bold appearance footing which helps set it apart from other rivals such as the: Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-3, Nissan Kicks, Fiat 500X, Hyundai Venue, Jeep Renegade, Chevy Trax and the Mini Countryman. The vehicle’s expressive presence is further defined by Kia’s signature tiger nose front grille. The side view includes a distinctive, fairly-modern profile that tends to form a streamline appearance. If “off-roading” is something that appeals to you, the lower front has 7.2-inches of ground clearance. The factory’s optional, two-tone roof layout gives Seltos an added layer of head-turning coolness and character. Additional key aspects include the vehicle’s fairly long wheelbase, large engine hood cover, full LED headlights (depending on the trim) aggressive front 14 | CROSSROADS | AUGUST 2020
bumper design, front and rear protective underside skid plates and black wheel arch cladding. Red wheel center caps are included as are dual-exhaust outlets with chrome trim pieces and a uniquely engineered tailgate housing that connects the rear tail lamps to create a sense of width and overall stability. And depending on the option packaging, you’ll discover either their standard 17-inch alloy wheels and tires or their attractive 18inch tire and wheel combination. Powering this sub-compact SUV is a fuel-efficient 2.0-liter four cylinder engine. A more robust and spirited 1.6-liter Turbo engine is also within the product mix. The 2.0-liter, multi-port fuel injected engine, produces 146 horsepower. Its EPA rating for city/highway is 27/31 MPG. It’s matched with a Continuously Variable Automatic Transmission on the LX, S and EX models. The Turbo 1.6-liter gas direct injected engine has an output of 175 horsepower and reflects 25-MPG city/30-MPH highway. It’s paired with a seven-speed dual clutch automatic transmission on the S and SX variances. Also standard is keyless entry, tinted privacy glass, eight-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, rear camera with parking guidance, one USB port and a dual level rear cargo storage floor. Under the heading of safety technologies: six airbags with rollover sensors are standard as is electronic
a bold entry into the
SUV MARKET
stability control, traction control system, tirepressure monitoring and downhill brake control. The interior cabin comes with a wide and sophisticated instrument panel. It has a hightech feel with an asymmetrical, easy-to-interrupt design. The spacious interior within has notable hip, shoulder, leg and head room in both rows. Two-stage reclining rear seats enhance the second row comfort. I also uncovered dubious exterior road noise at highway speeds and some of the interior “touch points” have hard-surface materials. The vehicle’s strong and rigid body is composed of 61 percent advanced high-strength steel. Seltos is packed with technology features including the “Kia Drive Wise” suite of Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems as well as a choice of three drive modes – Normal, Eco, Sport – each using specific settings for powertrain, drivetrain and steering. Also optional is an eight-speaker Bose premium sound system. The Kia warranty consists of 10-year/100,000 mile limited powertrain warranty and fiveyear/60,000 mile limited basic warranty. Also included is their five-year/60,000 mile roadside assistance. The Turbo S model I drove had a sticker price of $26,740 after the shipping charges of $1,120. Currently, there are some 800 Kia dealers here in the U.S.
Photos from Bigstock
Entertainment
Remembering
ROBIN WILLIAMS BY STEVE BRYAN
P
rolific director, producer and writer Garry Marshall introduced an alien character on his popular 1970’s sitcom “Happy Days” in Season 5 that became a sensation. Robin Williams, who had appeared on “The Richard Pryor Show” and a reboot of “Laugh-In,” played Mork, an alien from Ork who wanted to take Richie Cunningham (Ron Howard) to his home planet. Williams’ manic energy was captivating, extremely funny and led to the spinoff series “Mork & Mindy.” Williams passed away in 2014, but his legacy lives on in reruns, comedy specials and a long list of movies. He starred in “Popeye,” a 1980 live-action adaptation of the popular cartoon and comic book hero. Williams’ comedic talents helped him morph into the spinach-eating sailor and Shelley Duvall played Olive Oyl, the woman who became his girlfriend. Robert Altman directed this adaptation and it is a fun film to watch if you come across an old DVD or see it on a streaming service. “Good Morning, Vietnam,” a film based on
the experiences of Adrian Cronauer, a disc jockey for the Armed Forces Network, was a solid vehicle for Williams. In character as Cronauer, he unleashes an unrelenting barrage of jokes, humorous voices as well as some great rock-n-roll tunes for the Vietnam troops. Williams acting ability and improvisational skills earned him critical praise as well as several award nominations and wins. 1993’s “Mrs. Doubtfire” almost compels you to watch it when it shows up on cable. Based on “Alias Madame Doubtfire,” it tells the story of Daniel Hillard (Williams), a voice actor who abruptly quits his job. After his wife files for divorce, Daniel disguises himself as a proper English housekeeper to be closer to his children. “Mrs. Doubtfire” has a plethora of memorable scenes, especially the one where Daniel transforms into his alter-ego and back again several times in a restaurant bathroom. Williams earned an Oscar for “Good Will Hunting,” a compelling film written by Matt Damon and Ben Affleck. Damon plays Will Hunting, a janitor at M.I.T. who has a brilliant
analytical mind. He quietly solves complex mathematical problems written on a blackboard in the hallway and catches the attention of Professor Gerald Lambeau (Stellan Skarsgard). Lambeau helps him stay out of jail and get into therapy to deal with his personal issues. Williams is outstanding here as Dr. Sean Maguire, the therapist who has incredible dialogues with the young genius. No tribute to Robin Williams is complete without “Aladdin,” the 1992 Disney animated classic. He plays the fast-talking Genie whose newest master is Aladdin, a young man who lives on the streets. Suffice it to say, Williams steals the show as the funny, compassionate resident of the magic lamp. His energetic performance here is the perfect showcase for his boundless talent for comedy. Rest in peace, Robin Williams. You always put a smile on people’s faces and still do. AUGUST 2020 | CROSSROADS | 15
For the Love of Food
Make a commitment to more family meals Spending moments together with loved ones carries obvious benefits like time to catch up and opportunities to bond, but sharing meals actually provides definitive value for families. With restricted social interactions and confinement at home due to COVID-19, many families are facing meal challenges that have shifted from juggling busy schedules to seeking new ways to mix up the traditional menu or using digital solutions to reconnect at a virtual table. A study published in the “Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior” funded by the FMI Foundation shows that more frequent family meals are associated with better dietary and family functioning outcomes. The results build on years of previous research studies to punctuate the creation of the Family Meals Movement, which encourages Americans to pledge to share one more family breakfast, lunch or dinner at home per week. Consider these notable findings from the study: • Family meals improve fruit and vegetable consumption. Studies show a positive relationship between family meal frequency and fruit and vegetable intake when examined separately, but also when fruit and vegetable intake are combined. • Family meals improve family dynamics. Nearly all the studies included in the systematic review and meta-analysis demonstrated a positive relationship between family meal frequency and measures of family functioning. Family functioning is defined as family connectedness, communication, expressiveness and problem-solving. Find tips, recipes and ways to increase your family meal frequency despite COVID-19 circumstances at familymealsmovement.org. 16 | CROSSROADS | AUGUST 2020
German Fruit Tart
Recipe courtesy of Deanna Segrave-Daly on behalf of the FMI Foundation Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, thinly sliced
1/4 cup whole-wheat pastry flour
cornstarch
1/2 cup sugar
sliced kiwi
1 egg
sliced banana
1 tablespoon half-and-half or cream
blueberries
1/8 teaspoon almond extract or 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
sliced strawberries
2 teaspoons turbinado or powdered sugar (optional)
Directions:
greased 10-inch tart pan.
Preheat oven to 350 F.
Carefully spread dough into tart pan and bake 15-20 minutes, or until tart starts to turn golden brown. Remove from oven and cool.
To make crust, beat together flours, sugar, egg, half-and-half and almond extract. Add butter slices and mix together until sticky ball of dough forms. Refrigerate 30-60 minutes. On heavily floured surface, knead dough a few times and roll out to fit
Dust crust with cornstarch to help fruit stick to crust. Arrange strawberries, kiwi, banana and blueberries on top of crust; sprinkle with sugar, if desired.
For the Love of Food
Hawaiian Chicken Pizza
Recipe courtesy of Toby Amidor on behalf of the FMI Foundation Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 20 minutes
Ingredients: Nonstick cooking
spray
1 1/2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken 3/4cup barbecue sauce 1 ready-made pizza crust or whole wheat pizza crust (10 ounces)
1 cup canned or jarred tomato sauce 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese or part-skim mozzarella cheese 1 cup finely chopped fresh pineapple or canned pineapple tidbits packed in 100% juice
Directions: Preheat oven to 375 F. Coat pizza pan or baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray. In medium bowl, combine rotisserie chicken and barbecue sauce. Place pizza crust on pan and evenly spread tomato sauce over crust. Sprinkle evenly with cheese. Top evenly with rotisserie chicken mixture and pineapple. Bake until crust is crisp and browned around edges, about 10 minutes. Let pizza cool 10 minutes before cutting into eight slices.
Peanut Butter Banana Protein Baked Oatmeal Recipe courtesy of Lauren Harris-Pincus on behalf of the FMI Foundation Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6
Ingredients:
based protein powder
2 cups old-fashioned oats
1 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk
1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon salt 3 packets stevia (sugar substitute) or preferred sweetener 1/2 cup powdered peanut butter 1 scoop (1/4 cup) vanilla plant-
1/2 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt 3 tablespoons liquid egg whites 1 ripe banana (4 ounces), mashed 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 ripe banana (4 ounces), sliced into 24 slices
Directions: Preheat oven to 350 F. In large bowl, combine oats, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, stevia, powdered peanut butter and vanilla protein powder. In separate bowl, combine almond milk,
yogurt, egg whites, mashed banana and vanilla extract.
Top with banana slices in four rows of six slices each.
Add oat mixture to wet ingredients and gently stir until fully combined.
Bake 27-35 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
Line 9-inch brownie pan with parchment paper. Pour mixture into pan and spread evenly.
Let cool and cut into six rectangles. Wrap and refrigerate extras until ready to eat.
AUGUST 2020 | CROSSROADS | 17
Advertiser Profile
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636-887-0971
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Elite Heating and Cooling is located at 13 W. Allen St., Suite B in Historic Downtown Wentzville near West Allen Grill, but will be relocating to 108 Hamilton Industrial Ct. to better serve our customers. The business is owned by Tim Schellert and provides heating, cooling, and water heater service to residential. The business also provides gas inspections, restaurant kitchen inspections and Old Hickory Smokers service for its commercial customers. The business likes to give-back to the community through its participation in a variety of charitable causes such as Little Black Book and Habitat for Humanity. As a Lennox dealer they are also involved in the Lennox Feel the Love program which provides a new heating and air conditioning unit to a deserving family free-of-charge. Elite has been in business since 2003. We invite you to give us a call to respond to all of your heating and cooling needs. Phone is: (636) 887-0971
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18 | CROSSROADS | AUGUST 2020
Community Calendar
August 4
Coast Guard Birthday
7
Purple Heart Day
19
National Aviation Day
21
Senior Citizens Day
26
Women’s Equality Day
AUGUST 2020 | CROSSROADS | 19
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