GIVING THROUGH GARDENING
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2 | CROSSROADS | JUNE 2020
JUNE 5
2020
contents
Around Town Local news and events
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Feature Story Giving through gardening Local gardener founds Our Giving Hands Garden in O’Fallon to grow healthy vegetables the elderly and homeless veterans
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Always an Adventure Strange times
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Moore on Life Hairy situation
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Automobile Alley 2020 Hyundai Sonata is ‘eye candy’ at a reasonable price
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Entertainment The resurgence of drive-in theaters
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For the Love of Food Family-friendly ways to rethink favorite recipes
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Community Calendar: June
On the Cover: Photo provided
JUNE 2020 | CROSSROADS | 3
JUNE
2020 writers
VOL 16 | NO 6
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
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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.
Around Town
Timberland student earns award for high score on national German exam Joshua Talluto, a sophomore at Timberland High School in the Wentzville School District, has been awarded the Gold Medal and special recognition on the Presidential Honor Roll for outstanding performance on the 2020 National German Exam for High School Students. Talluto received this award after scoring in the 97th percentile on Photo courtesy Wentzville School District the Level 3 2020 National German Exam sponsored by the American Association of Teachers of German (AATG). He is a student in Advanced German 3 at Timberland and his German teacher is Christin Whitehead. Because he scored above the 90th percentile, he was eligible to compete for a summer study trip to Germany. Following interviews with two college German professors at St. Louis University and Webster University, he was selected out of six candidates to represent the Missouri chapter of the American Association of Teachers of German to compete for 39 summer study trips out of 59 chapters. Unfortunately, he received word last month that the trip for this summer has been cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic. Over 18,600 students took the exam this year, which included Talluto and 10 others at Timberland. Additional Timberland students who were also recognized on the Presidential Honor Roll for their performance on the exam include: • Michael Mischkot, Silver Medal, 86th percentile (German 3) • Jacob Herrold, Bronze Medal, 75th percentile (German 3) • Eric Hampson, Bronze Medal, 73rd percentile (German 3) • Gavin White, Bronze Medal, 77th percentile (German 2) • Daniel Larkin, Silver Medal, 89th percentile (German 2) The National German Exam, now in its 60th year, rewards students through an extensive prize program and provides a means of comparing students in all regions of the U.S. Doug Philipp, German teacher at Cheyenne Mountain High School in Colorado Springs, Colorado and AATG President said, “The outstanding performance of these German students in our national competition brings honor to their school, their district, and their German program. The AATG salutes their tremendous accomplishment and the great work their teachers do.” Founded in 1926, the AATG represents German teachers at all levels of instruction. The AATG is dedicated to the advancement and improvement of the teaching of language, literature, and culture of the German‐speaking countries.
2020 Youth Tour winners announced
Submitted photos
Matthew Long of Liberty High School.
Meghan Coyle of Liberty High School.
Jonah Tate of Liberty High School.
Jesa McGill of Warrenton High School.
Anna Guss of Warrenton High School.
Kassie Ehll of Warrenton High School.
Cuivre River Electric Cooperative has announced the winners of the 2020 Youth Tour essay contest. The six top-scoring students, selected as Youth Tour delegates, will each receive a $2,500 college scholarship. Due to the COVID-19 virus, this summer’s trip to Washington, D.C., has been canceled. However, the six delegates will have the opportunity to participate in some future virtual activities planned by the Youth Tour organizers. One speaker that is tentatively scheduled is Mike Schlappi, an inspiring four-time Paralympic medalist and two-time world wheelchair basketball champion. Organizers also hope to schedule an online meeting with Missouri’s congressional leaders for this year’s delegates. The winners of the 2020 Youth Tour competition are: Matthew Long, Meghan Coyle and Jonah Tate, all of Liberty High School; and Jesa McGill, Anna Guss and Kassie Ehll, all of Warrenton High School Twelve finalists out of more than 60 entries were announced in March. The co-op normally holds a banquet and competition for the finalists each year where the students present their essays orally. However, this year’s banquet was canceled and three judges read each of the essays remotely. The scores from the preliminary and finals competition were combined to determine placement. The other six finalists will each receive a $500 scholarship. They are Abigail Owenby and Michele Higby, both of Warrenton High School; Kailey Cain, Olivia Guffey and Erin Hughey, all of Liberty High School; and Joey Schieffer, homeschool. The annual Youth Tour contest is open to students who live and attend school in Cuivre River Electric’s general service area, or who have CREC service in their homes. Essays for the 2021 program will be accepted in the spring. For more information about the Youth Tour program, contact Tim Schmidt at 800-392-3709, ext. 4837 or by email at tschmidt@cuivre.com. JUNE 2020 | CROSSROADS | 5
Around Town
HONORING GRADUATES School districts find creative ways to recognize the
Class of 2020
amidst the COVID-19 pandemic By Brett Auten
Having its last eight weeks turned on its head, the Class of 2020 has had to adapt and adjust. With the COVID-19 outbreak putting the kibosh on all end-of-the-year celebrations and festivities, administrators, teachers and parents all found unique ways to give the Class of 2020 a tip of the cap. Some neighborhoods have become inventive. Last week, at Lake Sherwood Estates, a celebration was held to recognize 15 seniors. Though the graduates went to varying high schools, they all grew up together. Along with a car parade, there was a makeshift graduation ceremony put together on a beach. “We wanted to give the kids something to remember,” Suzanne Bennett, a Lake Sherwood Estates resident said. “For some of them, this will be their only graduation.” In the Francis Howell School District, graduation for all of the district’s high schools has been rescheduled for July 11. Whether that’s virtual, in-person with social distancing or a blended option, is still to be decided. FHSD will follow the guidance from county health officials and the Center for Disease Control to make that determination closer to the July 11 date. In the meantime, at Francis Howell High, the Class of 2020 bought yard signs for all graduates as the staff and more than 70 people delivered all of them to the 400-plus students. Also, billboards were congratulating the Class of 2020 for two weeks and an online senior awards ceremony was held. Volunteer staff members are currently writing individual notes of congratulations to Viking graduates. Francis Howell North placed signs in the yards of each of its seniors and has rented a digital billboard on Highway 364 and used it to feature a congratulatory sign designed by one of its seniors specifically for the class of 2020. The Howell North counseling department has also collaborated with the publications department to put together a three-night virtual senior awards ceremony. On May 28, Howell North will be holding a senior drive-thru parade on campus where students will have a chance to say goodbye to 6 | CROSSROADS | JUNE 2020
Submitted photos Top left: photo: Seniors in the Wentzville School District celebrated their last day of school with a parade through campus while parents and faculty cheered them on. Top right/Bottom Left: Lake Sherwood Estates held a graduation of its own for its residents who are graduating this spring. Middle photo: Yard signs and billboards were one of the many ways the graduating class of 2020 was honored throughout St. Charles County. Most area high schools have postponed graduation ceremonies until July. Bottom right: Orchard Farm School District faculty and students participated in a Chromebook and library dropoff event last week. Orchard Farm High School has rescheduled its graduation for July 11.
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Around Town teachers and underclassmen. “Since we can’t honor our seniors in the ways that we usually do, we’re doing everything we can to honor them in other ways,” Francis Howell North principal Dr. Nathanael Hostetler said. Francis Howell Central partnered with its parent clubs to provide each senior a graduation sign in their yard and also rented an electronic billboard on Highways 364 and 94 to celebrate the class of 2020. Along with a celebratory distribution of graduation items to all seniors, Howell Central developed a virtual Senior Awards Night, a virtual Senior Spring Sports Night, and a senior parade through campus. In the St. Charles School District, graduation plans for July 25 for St. Charles High School, and July 26 for St. Charles West is coming along nicely. Information and specific logistics for graduation will be sent out in early June. Along with special sign in each senior’s yard, during the weeks of May 18 and May 25, each senior had their senior picture displayed on a rotating electronic billboard sign at the intersection of Highway 94 and Interstate 70. There is also a light up the football field for each graduation at 8:20 p.m. for 20 minutes to show support. St. Charles High’s lights will go on Thursday, May 28, and St. Charles West’s lights will go on Sunday, May 31. Both will be at 8:20 p.m. and last for 20 minutes. Both schools are planning a parade to honor each senior class in conjunction with the stadium lights event. There will be a virtual celebration for the senior recognition award events. In the Wentzville School District, high schools Holt, Liberty and Timberland have done a mixture of recognitions. Plans are in place for graduation ceremonies at the Family Arena on July 25. Additionally, on the seniors’ last day each school held a senior sendoff parade at the school for seniors. There were video tributes for the class and the district took out a billboard for two weeks.
Submitted photos Yard signs and billboards were one of the many ways the graduating class of 2020 was honored throughout St. Charles County. Most area high schools have postponed graduation ceremonies until July.
At Orchard Farm High School the plan is to hold an in-person outdoor graduation ceremony on Saturday, July 11 at 9 a.m. They hold their ceremony on campus and will be following all social distancing recommendations of the St. Charles County Department of Public Health.
Cuivre River Electric Cooperative distributes capital credit refunds earlier Cuivre River Electric Cooperative (CREC) is returning over $6.7 million of capital credits to its members this year, but is doing so sooner, with the distribution of refunds beginning the first week of June. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic which has placed a hardship on some CREC members, CREC’s Board of Directors approved an earlier than usual retirement of capital credits this year. This year’s refunds, which are normally distributed in late July, include a portion of the cooperative’s 2019 and 2018 and 1997 margins – still a hybrid method of retirement but nearer to current years and members. They include 33 percent of members’ equity from 2018, 33 percent from 2019 and 33 percent of 1997. “With the continuing challenge of the coronavirus in our local communities and around the globe, we continue to look for ways to help our members, so I am happy to announce the Board’s decision of an earlier distribution,” said General Manager/CEO Doug Tracy, “It’s another way we can carry out the cooperative principle of ‘concern for community.’” Previously this year, CREC announced that members could have a choice of either receiving a check for their capital credits, or having
it posted as a bill credit. However, because of this early retirement, checks will be issued to all recipients, with the only exception being those members with refunds of less than $15 or with a 60-day pastdue balance—these refunds will be posted as energy bill credits to their account. Members can expect to see their refunds arriving around the first week of June. Capital credits, similar to profit margins in other businesses, represent CREC members’ ownership equity. Credits are allocated after the close of a fiscal year, if funds remain after all expenses for providing electric services have been met. Member capital is used in place of commercial loans to make infrastructure improvements and lower borrowing expenses and operational costs. The amount of each member’s refund is based on a formula determined by the quantity and cost of kilowatt-hours (kwhs) purchased annually. Since 1976, CREC has returned just over $100 million to current and former members. For any questions about capital credits, please call us at 800-3923709, or visit https://www.cuivre.com/content/capital-credit-refunds. JUNE 2020 | CROSSROADS | 7
Around Town
Wentzville’s aquatic facilities will not open for summer 2020 season In accordance with guidance from the state of Missouri and the St. Charles County Public Health Department, the city of Wentzville has begun to gradually open facilities using a phased approach. Progress Park Recreation Center opened first — to pass holders only — with reduced hours beginning May 11. The city’s aquatic facilities, however, 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.” As always, the health and safety of Wentzville’s residents, visitors and employees remains the number one concern. When considering whether to open the pools, city officials analyzed issues such as keeping restrooms, lounge chairs and food-service areas
sanitized; and reviewed options for social distancing as it applies to open swim, aquatic-fitness classes, swim lessons and more. In addition, many families have expressed serious concerns about allowing their teens to work this summer, leaving the department with many vacant positions. “Every day, the parks and recreation department is tasked with three major objectives: 1) to offer and operate programs and facilities that are clean, safe and financially sustainable; 2) to ensure individuals using our facilities or participating in our programs have a safe, enjoyable and quality experience; and 3) to ensure every department employee is well trained, customer-oriented and able to work in a safe work environment,” said Mike Lueck, Parks and Recreation Director. “Opening the pools does not necessarily meet these objectives at this time. As we have progressed through this pandemic and continue to move forward, our focus remains on safely providing services that residents value and on building relationships with those we encounter in the community every day.” The parks and recreation department continues to plan familyfriendly events and programs for later this spring and summer as the parks and public spaces are allowed to safely re-open. As changes are finalized, those programs will be shared at www.wentzvillemo.org/parksandrec and social media channels.
O’Fallon Firefighters Community Outreach surprises three high school students with scholarship awards Fire trucks with lights and sirens on arrived at three O’Fallon homes last week, but they weren’t there for an emergency. They were surprising three high school seniors with $1,200 scholarships. The students’ parents were let in on the secret, but the students did not know they were selected. They were chosen from a pool of applicants from Fort Zumwalt North High School, Fort Zumwalt West High School, Christian High School, St. Dominic High School and Hope High School. The surprise deliveries started at Roman Bishop’s home in O’Fallon on May 4. Matthew Lange’s home was next in O’Fallon. The final stop was at the home of Sara Harris in St. Peters. O’Fallon Firefighters Community Outreach streamed the presentations live on their Facebook page facebook.com/ofallonfirefighterscommunityoutreach The scholarship recipients are: • Matthew Lange, Fort Zumwalt West High School Lange wants to make a difference as a first responder. Since the age of six, he has wanted to be a firefighter, but a few years ago, when he was unable to help his great grandfather during a medical emergency, he knew he had to become a first responder. Lange excelled academically in high school and his teachers not8 | CROSSROADS | JUNE 2020
ed that he stood out as a natural leader, who was always there to help others. • Roman Bishop, Fort Zumwalt North High School Bishop has his sights set on becoming an orthopedic surgeon. After overcoming two major sport injuries during his middle school and high school sports careers, he developed a desire to help future athletes overcome their injuries and get back to the sports they love. Bishop is a successful student academically, and his teachers describe him as having a strong work ethic and a passion for science. He is an active volunteer basketball referee for Upward Sports, and serves as a field manager for the River City Rascals. • Sara Harris, Hope High School Sucide and depression are a daily struggle for many high school students. After Harris’ best friend passed away at the age of 16, she knew she wanted to do everything she could to help teens learn to cope and prevent them from feeling alone in this world. After graduation, she will work toward becoming a therapist where she can help teens who are struggling. Her teachers describe her as a hardworking, determined and self-motivated student who is always there for her peers.
GIVING THROUGH GARDENING
By Brett Auten
Local gardener founds Our Giving Hands Garden in O’Fallon to grow healthy vegetables the elderly and homeless veterans
D
ebbra Arndt is a guardian angel with a dogged mentality. Arndt is the founder of Our Giving Hands Garden in O’Fallon and has been feverishly prepping to get her garden ready to grow healthy vegetables for the low income elderly and the homeless veterans in the area.
It is something she has done for over 25 years but with the COVID-19 outbreak, this year there is a sense of urgency in every step. “The virus has made it even more difficult for these people,” Arndt said. “They have no computer, no cell phone, no television, or ability to get help. Some people who were relying on meals being brought to CONTINUED PAGE 10
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Arndt has lived by the credo of giving back to other people she meets and to draw attention to the fact that the elderly are being forgotten. 10 | CROSSROADS | JUNE 2020
them have had no food, or needed items that we all take for granted. I’m kinda stubborn when it comes to drawing attention to the people that worked all their lives and now they are left old, alone and hungry.” Arndt said she knows that this is going to be a very rough year for so many people so she is praying that she can get others to reach out and grow a garden and help others in need. “We are almost all at our homes now and I think this is a good time to learn about gardening I’m happy to teach others online or they can call me,” she said. Ed Drake has known Arndt for nearly four years and has seen her relentlessness first-hand. “I know she is always cooking for people and taking it down to Main Street,” Drake said. “She puts a lot of time into it. It’s pretty much her life. She is always out and about, networking, and getting to know the people who really need the help. It keeps her going.” Arndt’s past led to her doing Our Giving Hands Garden because as a child she was abandoned at the St. Louis Christian Home for Children. “There were four of us that were left there, and at the time a parent had to
sign a release from any rights in order for the children to be adopted,” Arndt said. “For some reason there was not a paper signed for me. Wherefore, I ended up in the foster care system.” Arndt said she lived in some places that were not safe, and the people that were supposed to go caring for her didn’t. “We slept on floors and were not going to school most days,” she said. “I remember trying to sleep and my stomach hurt so much because we were hungry. I ended up going through 14 different foster homes, many times being abused. I remember being told that if I told anyone else that I would be sent someplace else that would be worse!” As a young girl she became friends with other people that were older and living in the streets, under bridges and wherever they felt safe. “They showed me how to go dumpster diving,” Arndt said. “Basically when the restaurants closed at night time we jumped into the dumpster feeling the bags of trash to find warm ones. They had the food that was pulled of the shelf and thrown away every night. I was actually better cared for by my friends on the streets the people that were paid to.” Arndt has lived by the credo of giving back to other people she meets and to
draw attention to the fact that the elderly are being forgotten. “They are in assistance apartments and only get a minimum amount of money from their Social Security check to be able to buy the food and other stuff that we all need,” she said. “I try to take them bars of soap and toilet paper and whatever I am able to! At times I’m out in my truck passing out fresh fruit and vegetables to them and many people who have lost their homes. I wonder if our politicians realize that out seniors are only being approved for under $20 monthly in food stamp assistance. These people worked all of their lives and they are in need of a helping hand and no one seems to ever notice that they are basically being overlooked. They are old, alone and hungry.” Arndt encourages anyone who is interested in helping her cause or growing a garden of their own to reach out to her at ourgivinghandsgarden2009@ yahoo.com. Photos provided O’Fallon’s Debbra Arndt and her Our Giving Hands Garden has grown and given away vegetables for the low income elderly and the homeless veterans in the area for over 25 years.
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Always An Advsenture
STRANGE TIMES
BY AVALANCHE
TAKING STOCK OF THE LAST SEVERAL WEEKS MAKES ME THINK WE’RE LIVING IN A BAD COUNTRY SONG - Staci hit a deer on the way home from work and the car’s in the shop (Staci and the deer are OK); two beloved local dogs have died; some good friends had to close the doors to their general store for lack of business during the current medical mayhem; two other local businesses are struggling to keep the bankers and tax men at bay; one neighbor’s septic failed, and another had a water line break. A nearby couple is on the verge of hiring divorce attorneys. By far, the worst of all is that a young man whom I’ve known since he was a toddler was murdered while performing his duty as a state trooper, setting up a spike strip to stop a fleeing robber. Rest in peace, Justin Schaffer #646. The world keeps turning during a pandemic. But it does seem that a lot of things that happen on rare occasions are happening all at once right now. Those day-to-day challenges are harder to deal with since everyone and everything is shut down. Everyone around the world has their own tales of trial and tribulation. The big picture of how all this will work out remains to be seen. Struggle and despair are in abundance at the moment. Happiness and optimism are in short supply. In spite of it all, the sun still comes up in the east and sets in the west. The sky is blue and the birds are singing – quite a bit right now, since it’s spring. Our garden is planted (on time, for once) and we have been spared much of the misery befalling our friends and neighbors. Maybe we’re simply more aware of what’s going on since we’re actually talking more frequently with our friends and neighbors. Around here, “if you need something, say something” is the prevailing ethic. Someone will help out. Lots more sharing and helping is occurring than has been the norm in the past.
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Our grocery stores are still stocked enough so that no one who enters will come out hungry. Favorite brands and quantities might not be there, but you won’t miss a meal. A few travelers have arrived, but they’re greeted with gated-off forest roads, and closed campgrounds and motels. A quick, clandestine trip into the neighboring county – forbidden territory for non-residents – yielded a glimpse of life from a few decades ago. Traffic was almost nonexistent; parking lots were completely empty, even a popular fishing lake was deserted. For those residents of the area, it’s a mostly-welcome respite from the sometimes overwhelming crowds of the last few years. The crowds and the traffic will return soon enough. With luck, they’ll bring money to spend. Yards and garages have been cleaned out. (Unfortunately, the local counties didn’t keep the landfills open. Some of the detritus from private property has found its way onto the sides of the highway.) Landscapes look better than they have in years. Those neighbors whose plumbing systems failed quickly found contractors eager to complete the repairs, they’re happy to have the work. Calls for service to the local police and fire departments have dropped precipitously. While the numbers are down, the severity of the calls to 911 seems to have increased. Those previously on the margins of society are falling off the edge. This situation gives all of us some time to ponder just what is “essential” to us, not necessarily synonymous with government edicts. More time and less money tends to focus one’s attention on the immediate hierarchy of needs. Our species has weathered far more calamitous situations in the past; we’ll get through this situation as well, maybe with a bit more understanding of ourselves and our place in the world.
Moore On Life
Hairy situation IF NOTHING ELSE HAS RESULTED FROM THIS CRAZY PANDEMIC, having to learn
new skills might be one positive outcome. We’ve had to become quite selfsufficient during lockdown.
For example, hair maintenance. It’s become quite apparent just how important those hair salon people are. It’s a talent we took for granted. I need their talent desperately. My hair is past my shoulders and I have a mass of gray inching down from my scalp. Desperation calls, but the salons are closed. I will have to color it myself. The internet told me that beets contain a natural dye. It can be extracted by boiling them. Good to know. Until I get to that point, I will first use a Sharpie and ink over that annoying gray. My husband is fairing just fine. He has what’s known as the maintenance-free cut. He rubs a towel over his head a few times and boom! Done. He and his bald head are ready to go out on the town. That is…if we were ALLOWED to go out on the town. But since we’re not, he made reservations for
6 p.m. on the couch with a tuna sandwich and an evening of binge-watching Netflix. Wow! That sounds like an original date. It’s his turn to pick a series. He chooses “Tiger King” because he thinks it will be a sweet family flick much like “The Lion King.” I’ve already seen it. He will be choking on his tuna sandwich three minutes into the first episode. No worries. I’m well acquainted with the Heimlich maneuver. I get ready for our big date night. I trim up my dangly hairs then apply my homemade dye to those nasty roots and join my husband on the couch. His jaw drops open with some partially eaten sandwich hanging out. “What?” I ask. “Your head.” “Like it? That’s my new hair color. I used beet juice. It’s supposed to look reddish.” “Sweet mother, I thought your head was bleeding all over.” He eyes me strangely again. “Now what?!”
“Your hair is shorter.” “Cute. Isn’t it?” “It’s a little…uneven. Did you use my nose clippers?” Rude! I think I’ve completely forgotten how to administer the Heimlich. So I guess my ingenuity did not work out well. When the world opens up again I’ll have what stylists everywhere will refer to as the “Corona Cut”.
JUNE 2020 | CROSSROADS | 13
Automobile Alley
2020 HYUNDAI SONATA ‘ ’ is eye candy at a reasonable price SOPHISTICATED EXECUTION, striking design (both inside and out) and a class far above the competition. This helps to describe the redone “third generation” 2020 Hyundai Sonata. With a base starting price at $23,400 (before the $950 destination charges and options), this rolling form of head-turning “eye candy” quite honestly proves to also be a good value. To expand a bit further, it’s only increases $750 more than the previous outgoing 2019 version however, the ‘20 model has additional standard content. The vehicle’s coupe-like outside lines make it one of the most stylish four-door models on the road today. This is all coupled with classleading front head and leg room. Exterior body panels show perfectly-aligned gaps and seams as the fit and finish, including the paint, is on par with luxury makes and models in the high end luxury category. The vehicle’s modern outside timeless body design element is nothing short of compelling. A chrome line flows from the top of the front fenders and returns to the headlamp area by running down the length of the hood. This chrome strip features graduated daytime running lights embedded with hidden stateof-the-art lighting technology thus, forming Sonata’s light architecture. The hidden LED’s appear to be chrome when switched off and become dramatically lit when turned on. This meaningful layout will likely be the bench14 | CROSSROADS | JUNE 2020
mark for other car companies to use as a base line for future car designs. Sonata is offered in four trim levels; SE, SEL, SEL Plus and Limited. A hybrid version is also featured. The interior is relaxing and inviting, back seat leg room is more than adequate. The dash assembly is uncluttered. It’s easy to navigate without having to spend hours being focused on the owner’s manual. Available is their unique/reconfigurable dash cluster. With the panoramic sun roof, the vehicle’s large green house gives the welcomed impression of openness. Trunk space is exceptional with this mid-size automobile. If you’re enticed to electronic gadgetry, look no further! Sonata’s digital key allows the vehicle to be unlocked, started and driven without a physical key, all via a smartphone. Additionally, Sonata offers a high-speed wireless smartphone charging pad with cooling fan. Two engines available - standard is their 2.5-liter four cylinder and depending on the trim level, they offer a 1.6-liter turbo that operates on regular grade fuel. All models come with an eight-speed automatic transmission. EPA numbers show 28-MPG city/38-highway for the 2.5-liter, 27-MPG city/36-highway for the turbo. Their innovative vehicle platform delivers increased strength, reduced weight, driving performance and improvements in safety. And speaking of safety, this sedan has cutting
edge breakthroughs that place it among one of the best in its category. This is further supported with its confident crash test findings. Steering and breaking is impressive, helping to give the driver an elevated level of fortitude. At road-test, the 2020 Sonata Limited I drove had an MSRP of $34,365. The base warranty is for 5-years/60,000 miles, powertrain warranty is for 10-years/100,000 miles. In the U.S., Hyundai Motors is supported with their 830 U.S. dealership network.
Entertainment
THE RESURGENCE of drive-in theaters
BY STEVE BRYAN
I
n the early 2000’s, I was privileged to meet Joe Williams, a writer who was then the film critic for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. A kind and well-spoken man, he loved movies and especially enjoyed watching them at drive-in theaters. In some of his pieces, Williams would talk about Richard M. Hollingshead, Jr., the man credited with the concept of mixing cars with big outdoor screens. It was never a surprise to see Mr. Williams’ byline on a piece referencing “Ozoners,” the affectionate nickname for driveins. Growing up in the 1960’s and 70’s, my parents would frequently take my brothers and sisters and I to see movies at a local drive-in. We would load up the station wagon with soft drinks and snacks and settle in for several hours of cinematic enjoyment. In those pre-social distancing days, the only time we’d really interact with other people was during a trip to the snack bar. For our family, this was an economical way to see several movies over the summer months. When my friends and I were old enough to drive, we’d inevitably head to a drive-in on the weekend. Over time, though, once-popular drive-in theaters in the Bi-State region closed for various reasons. Located at 9348 Watson Road, the “66 Park In Theater” was a Crestwood landmark until It was torn down to make way for a shopping center. During the summer of 1982, families in their cars waited in long lines on Lemay Ferry to see “E.T.” at the South Twin Drive-In. A year later, however, this venerable
establishment gave way to yet another shopping plaza. In the current climate, though, drive-ins have seen a resurgence in popularity. Broadcasting the sound in FM stereo, the Skyview Drive-In in Belleville, Illinois, for instance, opens at 6:30 p.m. every night. As their website points out, those iconic window speakers are long gone but patrons can use their car radio or bring a battery-operated portable one. I’m not sure if Richard Hollingshead had social distancing in mind when he opened his first drive-in, but the concept works well here. Modern technology also made “Pop-Up” drive-in theaters a reality. Ben Hooper at UPI recently reported that the Kathedral Event Center in Hammonton, New Jersey started showing movies on their parking lot. For their “Karpool Cinema”, cars are spaced approximately 10 feet apart to be in line with social distancing. ABC affiliate WPIV in Philadelphia even posted on-camera interviews with patrons who were happy to get out of the house for some family-friendly entertainment. I’ve written more than once about how much I miss sitting in a theater with my snacks with other movie lovers close-by to share the experience. On Twitter, however, Regal Cinemas recently posted their intention to stay closed until they can show movies in a safe environment. Until it’s safe to go back to the cinema, drive-in’s and innovative pop-up theaters provide a very welcome way to get out of the house and enjoy the movies.
JUNE 2020 | CROSSROADS | 15
For the Love of Food
FAMILY-FRIENDLY WAYS rethin k fa vo rit e re ci pe s to
Freshen up family dinners by adding new ingredients like pecans, with natural richness and subtle sweetness coupled with irresistible crunch. Kitchen staples are being used to add twists to traditional dishes, so finding an item you can use to mix up classic family recipes is key. Pecans pack flavor, texture and nutrition all in one bite, and they have a long shelf life. Shelled pecans can be kept in airtight containers in the refrigerator for about nine months and for up to two years in sealed plastic bags in the freezer. While pecans are beloved in classic desserts, like pecan pie, they also offer a variety of nutrition benefits that can be added to nearly any meal. They are among the highest in “good� monounsaturated fats, contain 3 grams of plant protein per serving and are a source of fiber, flavonoids and minerals like manganese, which is essential for metabolism and bone health. Nearly two decades of research document the heart-
health benefits of pecans. In fact, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, scientific evidence suggests but does not prove that eating 1 1/2 ounces per day of most nuts, such as pecans, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, may reduce the risk of heart disease. One serving of pecans (28 grams) has 18 grams of unsaturated fat and only 2 grams of saturated fat. Add crunch to this Chinese Chicken Salad with Pecans by swapping out croutons, use chopped pecans as a flavorful and nutrient-dense coating for Pecan Chicken Meatballs and bake this Pecan Banana Bread as a nutritious and kid-friendly breakfast or snack to fill your home with a delicious scent. Discover more nutritious recipes at AmericanPecan.com.
Pecan Chicken Meatballs Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 30 minutes | Yield: 9 meatballs Ingredients:
1 egg
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 pound ground chicken
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1/4 cup spinach, chopped
1/4 t easpoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon paprika 1/4 teaspoon salt
Directions:
tablespoon- sized meatballs.
Heat oven to 400 F. Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
Place reserved pecans in bowl. Roll meatballs in pecans to coat then place on prepared baking sheet.
In large bowl, mix ground chicken, spinach, lemon juice, egg, garlic, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, cayenne (if desired) and 1/2 cup pecans until well combined. Roll chicken mixture into 1
16 | CROSSROADS | JUNE 2020
1 cup finely chopped fresh pecan pieces, divided
Bake 20-30 minutes until meatballs are cooked through. Serve warm with sauces for dipping or over pasta.
For the Love of Food
Chinese Chicken Salad with Pecans Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4 Ingredients:
Dressing:
Directions:
Salad:
1/4 cup pecan butter
To make salad: Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and transfer to bowl with cold water to keep from sticking.
4 ounces dried thin rice noodles cold water
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
1 tablespoon honey
4 cups chopped iceberg lettuce
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
1/4 cup toasted and chopped pecans
1 1/2 teaspoons soy sauce
2 scallions, finely chopped 1 cup bean sprouts 1/2 cup crispy wontons 1 cup mandarin oranges 2 tablespoons sesame seeds 2 cups rotisserie chicken breast, chopped
2 tablespoons warm water, plus additional as needed (optional)
In large bowl, toss romaine and iceberg lettuces, pecans, scallions, bean sprouts, crispy wontons, mandarin oranges and sesame seeds. Divide salad among four plates; top each with 1/2 cup chicken and serve with dressing. To make dressing: In medium bowl, whisk pecan butter, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil and soy sauce until smooth. Add 2 tablespoons warm water and whisk until incorporated. Add additional water, 1 teaspoon at a time, if desired, until dressing reaches pourable consistency.
Pecan Banana Bread Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 60 minutes | Servings: 8 Ingredients:
Directions:
10 ounces gluten-free baking flour mix
Heat oven to 350 F. Prepare 9-by-5-inch banana bread pan.
1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 2 flax eggs 1 cup organic brown or coconut sugar 1/2 cup coconut oil 1/2 vanilla bean 1/2 cup vegan yogurt 3/4 cup mashed bananas, ripe 1 cup raw pecan pieces, chopped, plus additional for topping
In medium bowl, sift flour mix, baking powder, baking soda and sea salt; whisk to combine. In mixer bowl, mix eggs, sugar and coconut oil 2 minutes on medium-low speed. Scrape vanilla bean and add to mixture. Add vegan yogurt and mashed bananas; mix 2 minutes on medium-low speed. Remove bowl from mixer and fold 1 cup raw pecan pieces into batter until evenly distributed. Add batter to banana bread pan and use spatula to smooth down top. Sprinkle additional pecan pieces on top. Bake banana bread on top rack 60 minutes until toothpick comes out with few crumbs but not completely clean. Remove from oven and allow to cool 10 minutes in pan. Hold sides of pan and flip onto wire rack. Allow bread to cool completely. Slice as desired. JUNE 2020 | CROSSROADS | 17
Advertiser Profile
Wentzville Business Spotlight
WWW.LANGINSURANCE.COM
Imagination Pottery Studio is located at 1463 Wentzville Parkway, just down the street from Wentzville City Hall. The business is owned by Megan Kumbera and was purchased in May 2015. Our business offers walk-in pottery painting, classes, birthday parties, and even camps. We love that Wentzville is a hub of activity and remains a people-friendly community. We are excited about the new recreational facility coming to Wentzville. We have been voted as the Best DIY Studio for the third year in a row by the St. Louis Post Dispatch. Come by to relax, have some fun, and create new memories.
(636) 327-4699
WWW.DARDENNEPRAIRIE.ORG
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