Raising a flag over Wentzville
February 2016
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VOL 13 | NO 2
Published monthly with newsstand circulation to Wentzville and Lake Saint Louis plus newsstands in O’Fallon, Troy, Lake Sherwood and Augusta. Publisher Robert Huneke Editor Mathew DeKinder Production Manager Rebecca Brockmann Contributors Avalanche, Robin Daniels, David Finkelstein, Tony Mathews, Cindy Moore, Russ Patton, Laurie Simon Photographer Ray Rockwell Staff Writer Brett Auten
Departments
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Around Town Local news and events
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Business Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce
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Automobile Alley 2016 Dodge Charger offers drivers an endless number of build combinations
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Always an Adventure “Toto, we’re not in Kansas anymore!”
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Moore on Life Birthday blunders
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Entertainment Trivia of the 88th Annual Academy Awards
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Food Four reasons to use canola oil
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Photo Op Wentzville Unity Walk
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Community Calendar: February
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By Laurie Simon
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
Raising a flag over Wentzville Community members pull together to build a flagpole to honor veterans
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Advertiser Profiles Entegra, a new family member By Russ Patton
After holiday ID theft prevention By Robin Daniels
Copyright 2015 Huneke Publications, Inc. No part of the publication may be reproduced in any form without the expressed written consent of the publisher. Crossroads is a trademark of Huneke Publications, Inc. Any published use of Crossroads implying affiliation is strictly prohibited.
On the Cover: Photo by Laurie Simon
FEBRUARY 2016 | CROSSROADS
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Around Town
O’Fallon continues its Disabled Transportation Program
www.myprovidencebank.com
Legally-disabled O’Fallon residents who cannot drive may be eligible for a limited number of free rides to medical appointments, banks, and grocery and personal care shopping through the city’s Disabled Transportation Program. “For adults with disabilities who are unable to drive, the program helps with essential living appointments and offers a measure of independence in their lives,” said Alexis Jaegers, O’Fallon’s Public Assistance Specialist. In order to assist as many residents as program funds allow, the rides are limited to two round trips per person per month. Pickup sites must originate in O’Fallon city limits and destinations must be in St. Charles County. To schedule a ride, residents should con-
tact the service provider, ZipCare Transportation, at least 48 hours in advance by calling 314-292-7302 ext. 380. Or, a request can be submitted online through the company’s website, www.zipcaretransportation.com. To qualify for the ride program, residents will need to show legal proof of Social Security disability, such as a copy of the award letter and/or their Medicare part A and B card. Residents also will need photo identification with proof of their O’Fallon address, and a copy of a current utility bill such as a bill for phone, gas, electric, water or trash collection. For more information, visit www.ofallon. mo.us/disabled-transportation-program or contact Jaegers at 636-379-5411, or ajaegers@ofallon.mo.us.
Former sports management executive opens area’s first Rockin’ Jump
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Rockin’ Jump, a national indoor trampoline park, will make its debut at the end of April at 61 N. Central Dr. in O’Fallon.
Hilliker Corporation, a St. Louis owned and managed commercial real estate company, is helping bring fitness and fun to the area. Rockin’ Jump, a national indoor trampoline park, will make its debut at the end of April at 61 N. Central Dr. in O’Fallon. Owner Matt Strelo, a sports and entertainment management veteran, has leased the 30,000-squarefoot space for 10 years. It will be the first Rockin’ Jump in St. Louis. The company’s national headquarters, along with six corporate locations, are in California. Founded in 2010, the familyowned Rockin’ Jump has 17 franchises throughout the country with more than 100 currently under contract.
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Submitted photo
Owner Matt Strelo has worked in the sports and entertainment management industry for 30 years. He previously served as the General Manager at Gateway International Raceway, as well as the Vice President of Ticket Sales and Marketing for the St. Louis Blues. According to Strelo, “Our location is on the big side because the typical Rockin’ Jump is between 20,000 and 22,000 square feet.” He said that the indoor trampoline park will include a an open jump area, trampoline dodge ball courts, jousting challenges, a massive rock climbing wall and a full-service pizza café and restaurant.
Around Town
Local DAR chapter logs over 15,000 hours of community service
Submitted photo Pictured are Nancy Milliken, Samantha Blandino, Helene Reece and Mary Jo Anderson staffing the Dutzow Stop on the Katy Trail, helping to raise money for the Wheeling for Healing Ride sponsored by the Missouri State DAR and Katy Trail.
Once again the Caroline Close Stuart Chapter, NSDAR completed another year of service, topping all previous years with over 15,000 hours of community service recorded in 2015. Since the 1890 founding, DAR members have worked tirelessly to promote historic preservation, patriotism and educational ideals through a comprehensive committee structure in communities across this nation and in Units Overseas. Yet, the NSDAR is often looked upon as purely a lineal society. Too often its service organization mission often goes unappreciated by the general public and even by some members. Through a new effort to “Celebrate America” DAR chapter members are recording the hours of their community service. Nationwide DAR chapters across the country have recorded nearly three million service hours since the initiative began in 2013. In 2015 chapter members recorded time as tutors in the schools, hospital volunteers, Boy and Girl Scout leaders, hostesses at the USO, driving shut-ins to the store and doctor visits, sending care packages to military bases and making shrouds for the Missouri Veterans home. These are just a few of the numerous ways chapter members are making an impact in the community. Even members who live in other states are making an impact in those communities. Shawn Oehlberg, chapter member who happens to live outside of Chicago, volunteers with the Scouts in her area. Elizabeth Kurpius volunteers at the Air Force base where she lives in Arizona. Judy Blandino, Chairman of the Chapter’s Celebrate America committee commented, “Recording our hours has shown us how much vibrancy and vitality there is in today’s DAR! Our mission has always to give back to our communities. In the past we have only been known for the historic preservation and genealogy. It is nice to show how much we are involved in areas that touch veterans, the homeless and children. We are proud to give back to the nation we love.”
FSBH Christmas event was a true wonderland The First Step Back Home (FSBH) Seventh Annual Christmas Wonderland, held Dec. 19, 2015, was the biggest event yet with more than 560 people from the community coming together to bless the disadvantaged with holiday cheer at Wentzville United Methodist Church. On hand to greet everyone were Wentzville Mayor Nick Guccione, Missouri State Representative Bryan Spencer and FSBH Ministry Founder/Leader, Paul Kruse. This year’s event exceeded expectations for attendance, with 86 percent increase in participation - 381 needy people from 109 families. Parents were able to “shop” for additional gifts for kids not at the event and teens, with a total of 680 total gifts distributed throughout the day. Additionally 3,300 diapers from Harvester Christian’s “Wrap a Bottom” project, toiletry items, feminine hygiene products, coats, gloves, hats and donated clothing items were given away. More than 1,000 cans of food had been collected by a group from Timberland High School in December during an after school activity organized by Kiley Hanff. A fourth grade class from John Weldon Elementary School collected more than 300 pairs of new socks last October during a “Sock-tober” event, that were given out as well. Each family also received a $25 gift card that had been left by Santa at the end of the day. For information on how to help next year contact Lana Kruse at lanakruse@centurytel.net or 314-799-3694.
FEBRUARY 2016 | CROSSROADS
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Around Town
Providence Bank opens new Lake Saint Louis Banking Center
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Living Word 1/12 Submitted image
www.lwcs.us
This is an artist’s rendering of the completed Providence Bank’s Lake Saint Louis Banking Center at 460 Hawk Ridge Trail in Lake Saint Louis.
Tom Hagar, President of the St. Louis market for Providence Bank is pleased to announce the opening of Providence Bank’s Lake Saint Louis Banking Center at 460 Hawk Ridge Trail in Lake Saint Louis. “We are very excited to complete the construction of the new banking center and relocate our current Lake Saint Louis Banking Center to this new, more convenient and accessible location. Lake Saint Louis is a fast-growing area and we are proud to be part of its growth,” said Hagar. The new Lake Saint Louis Banking Center is conveniently located at 460 Hawk Ridge Trail, off Highway N on the South outer road, and near Providence Bank’s previous location at 6253 Ronald Reagan Drive at the Shoppes of Hawk Ridge. Coil Construction served as the general contractor and Cromwell Architecture as the architect. The approximately 2,500 square-foot state-of-the-art, full-service banking center features a technology bar equipped with an iPad, Android Tablet, iPhone, Android Phone and touch screen computer for customer use and demonstrations. It also features two drive-thru lanes, a drive-up ATM with image deposit capability and safe deposit boxes. The floor plan is a
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new prototype that may be used for future Providence Bank locations. Jen Megee, Executive Vice President, Director of Retail Banking and Deposit Services stated, “We are so proud to introduce our new full-service banking center to the community. The new convenient location and additional square footage allows us to introduce new technology, more products and services, and greater convenience for our customers. An exciting feature of our new banking center is the technology bar that allows customers to access online tools and learn how to tap into Providence Bank’s convenient products and services while having bank staff nearby to assist them when needed.” The Banking Center Lobby is open Monday through Thursday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to noon. The drive thru is open Monday through Thursday 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to noon. Providence Bank has been meeting the financial needs of individuals and businesses for more than 127 years. Providence Bank is a FDIC Member and Equal Housing Lender.
Around Town
Crossroads Elementary class named finalist in national writing contest Martha Langston’s second-grade class at Crossroads Elementary in the Wentzville School District has been named one of five finalists in the seventh annual “Be a Famous Writer” national writing contest. “The Five Dogs and a Little Bit of Trouble” was a collaborative class project submitted by Langston for this year’s contest where K-4 classrooms across the country were invited to write about the theme of “pets.” “We had 28 states submit entries, and the quality of the stories this year were amazing,” said Mrs. P (played by T.V. actress Kathy Kinney). “In fact, we even have an honorable mention to give out, because it was so hard to narrow it down to just five stories this year,” added Kinney. “This project sparked great conversations and teachable moments in my classroom,” said Langston. “Not only have final copies of (my students’) writing assignments improved, but I see more of them taking their time to reread, revise and add more. Many of them are now inspired to write their own books in their free time.” The annual Be-a-Famous Writer contest is an opportunity for K-4 classrooms to spark their imaginations, according to the website. Finalists are selected based on originality, creativity, compelling nar-
Photo courtesy Wentzville School District Martha Langston’s second-grade class at Crossroads Elementary in the Wentzville School District has been named one of five finalists in the seventh annual “Be a Famous Writer” national writing contest.
rative, humor, sense of adventure and the development of a theme or point of view. Mrs. P Enterprises, LLC, was founded in 2008 by Hollywood team Clay Graham, Kathy Kinney and Dana Plautz. After having built successful careers in television and media, the three creators of MrsP.com were brought together by a love of reading and a desire to help spark that same passion in young people everywhere.
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www.byerlyrv.com FEBRUARY 2016 | CROSSROADS
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Around Town
O’Fallon’s new siding installation program can help qualifying O’Fallon homeowners
Name change to Department of Public Health reflects expanded focus, role
The city of O’Fallon is offering a new Siding Installation/Replacement Program to help low-income resident homeowners maintain their houses. The program provides applicants who qualify with grants of up to $10,000. The grants are allocated on a first-come, first-serve basis to applicants who qualify, and they do not have to be repaid. “The program is designed to help low-to-moderate-income homeowners with the extensive cost of siding installation and repair, costs that they could not otherwise afford,” said Alexis Jaegers, O’Fallon’s Public Assistance Specialist. “From a maintenance standpoint, siding is one of the most important investments a homeowner can make, and, by helping homeowners maintain their home’s exterior, the program also benefits O’Fallon neighborhoods.” To qualify for the program, applicants must meet the same requirements as the Home Improvement Loan Program (HILP), including household income limits, owning and occupying the house to be improved for at least one year and being current on mortgage payments and real estate taxes. Income limits are based on total gross incomes of no more than: $39,400 for a one-person household, $45,000 for a two-person household, $50,650 for a household of three, $56,250 for a household of four, $60,750 for a five-person household, $65,250 for a six-person household, $69,750 for a seven-person household and $74,250 for an eight-person household. More information about applying for the program can be found at www.ofallon.mo.us/grants-assistance. Or, contact Ms. Jaegers at 636-379-5411 or ajaegers@ofallon.mo.us.
To better reflect an expanded focus toward improving the wellbeing of residents and businesses, the St. Charles County Council enacted an ordinance that officially changed the name of the Department of Community Health and the Environment. Effective Jan. 1, the Department of Public Health emphasizes the services the three divisions (Environmental Health and Protection, Health Services and Humane Services) provide beyond that of simply being a health clinic for those in need. “While we will continue to provide the high-quality services our residents expect, our new name signals a transition toward a broader and more encompassing future for 2016 and beyond,” Department Director Hope Woodson stated. “We intend to show the importance of health in all aspects of county government actions and for all of our customers and community partners. Our divisions enhance the lives of residents, their businesses and their pets each day, and this fresh, streamlined department name better reflects our themes and objectives.” For the last six years, a national report has ranked St. Charles County among Missouri’s healthiest counties, and health department staff collaborates with other departments, agencies and individuals to build upon this success. The department contributes to residents’ well-being through programs such as the WIC supplemental nutrition and education program for mothers and growing families; routine inspections of restaurants and other public service providers; distribution of no- or low-cost vaccinations; the successful adoptions of dogs, cats and other animals that enhance the enjoyment of pet owners; and much more. In the coming weeks, the department will introduce new programs that spread successful healthcare initiatives, participate in plans that further county residents’ physical, mental and social well-being; and work with community leaders to better serve the needs of our county. Here is just a sampling of those efforts: • Partnering with the prosecuting attorney, County Police Department and others on a Regional Drug Task Force designed to minimize the heroin epidemic. • Hosting an Emergency Planning Summit to help St. Charles area non-profit and human service agencies prepare themselves and their clients for future disasters. • Contracting with several area municipalities to extend animal control and sheltering services throughout St. Charles County. • Coordinating public health education and community outreach with the St. Charles City/County Library District. • Presenting the Second Annual St. Charles County Earth Day Celebration with the Parks Department. • Introducing a passport processing department to serve as a “one-stop shop” for residents seeking to travel outside the United States. • Managing the licensing and permitting of St. Charles County lodging establishments.
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Business
Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce Serving Wentzville, Lake St. Louis, and Dardenne Prairie
Chamber bestows annual awards
Chamber hosts two ribbon cutting ceremonies The Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce hosted two ribbon cutting ceremonies for AAA Insurance and Travel and YP Marketing Solutions – Candace Hubbard. 1. AAA Insurance and Travel is located at 1126 West Pearce Boulevard in Wentzville. You can reach them at 636-327-0570 or online at www.aaa.com. 2. YP Marketing Solutions is located at 1630 Des Peres Road in Saint Louis. You can reach them at 314-9575160 or online at www. marketingsolutions. yp.com. The Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce serves Dardenne Prairie, Lake St. Louis, and Wentzville. The chamber is comprised of over 685 members. If you are interested in having a ribbon cutting at your place of business please contact the chamber. To view pictures & video
of these recent ribbon cuttings please visit our Chamber Facebook Page. For more information please call the chamber office at 636-327-6914 or visit the chamber online at http://westernstcharlescountychamber.com. Submitted photos
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The Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce bestowed its annual awards at their Celebration Ball that was held on Jan. 30 at The Carpenter’s Hall in Wentzville. This year’s theme was “Inspiring Others.” This year the chamber selected the following businesses, organizations, and individuals as award winners: Above and Beyond Award for Exceptional Customer Service: Harris Automotive and Tire; You Made it Happen Award for Positively Impacting the Community: The Expert Realty Company; Chamber Business of the Year Award: Serco; Chamber Volunteer of the Year Award: Melinda Jarvis; Tony Award: Chamber Mystery Dinner Theater Cast and Allen & Chris Rone. The chamber also awarded Chamber Superlative Awards that evening that consisted of: Most Likely to Make Your Day Better – Kathy Swanegan; Most Chamber Spirit – Laurie Simon; Best Chamber Friend – Tim Ritzel; Most Likely to be there When You Need Them – Amanda Werremeyer; Best Business Mentor – Hank Wylie; Most Community Spirit – Little Black Book.
By tony mathews
Tony Mathews is the President and CEO of the Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce For more on any of this information or the chamber in general, please call the chamber office at 636.327.6914 or visit the website www.westernstcharlescountychamber.com. Located at 207 South Linn Avenue in Wentzville.
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Raising a flag over Wentzville Community members pull together to build a flagpole to honor veterans
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By Laurie Simon
hen a community can come together to reach a specific goal, it makes my heart happy. On a cold but sunny Tuesday in January, I was honored to be invited to the dedication of a new flagpole in Wentzville. Sitting at the entrance to the Village Center off the Hwy Z exit from Hwy 70 on Church Street, as you enter downtown Wentzville is a brand new flagpole. It stands tall and is proudly seen across the area. It was after the flag was raised and the words were spoken that I began to wonder…Why a flag? Why here at this location? Who was the mastermind to get this flagpole installed and dedicated? What is the significance of this? A few emails and phone calls later, my questions were answered. My first stop was to talk to Tom Durst, owner of Tommy D’s Pizza in Wentzville. The flagpole stands right in front of his business. To my surprise, the flagpole was the brainchild of Tom and his wife Mary. Each year Tom and Mary Durst line the streets of Church Street with American flags to support the “Run for the Wall” – the group of bikers that make their way into Wentzville each year to make a stop at the nation’s first ever Vietnam memorial that sits in front of the Wentzville Fire Protection District on Pearce Boulevard. After talking about this yearly event, Mary Durst came up with the idea of a permanent American flag proudly displayed at the entrance to Wentzville. One quick phone call to Demien Construction and Tom and Mary Durst knew they had some planning to do. As a permanent structure for anything isn’t cheap, Tom talked to the owners of Demien Construction in Wentzville about the placement of the flagpole as well as reducing the cost to install it. It was decided the flagpole should be located at the entrance to the city on city grounds, because there was already a dusk to dawn light that sits beneath the Village Center sign leading into Wentzville. Demien Construction graciously said they could reduce costs of the permanent structure. Everything then started falling into place. It was still going to cost around $2,800 to get everything constructed, installed and ready to go. To get the ball rolling Demien Construction donated $1,000. Tom Durst and his wife talked it over and knew they could not afford the entire cost themselves. After pledging his dedication and $500 towards the flagpole, Tom decided to pick up the phone and call for help to acquire the remainder of the funds needed. Tom’s first stop was the city of Wentzville who generously donated $800 to make the flagpole happen. When asked why the city of Wentzville took an interest in the matter, Mayor Nick Guccione had this to say, “The installation of this flag demonstrates what a great community we have here in Wentzville. Symbols like this honor our veterans, God and
our country. We are proud to have this flag to mark the entrance into Wentzville’s downtown Village Center.” Mayor Guccione spoke a few words at the dedication ceremony and led the group of bystanders in saying the Pledge of Allegiance. Next up was the Wentzville Downtown Business Association (WDBA), who also agreed to donate $500 to the project. President of the WDBA, Mike Wood, was also in attendance at the dedication ceremony and had this to say about the installation of the flagpole, “This was a great project that brought together a collaboration of organizations through private and public funding. It just so happened that we were able to pull together resources for a great outcome. The monument is phenomenal and is represented by all, as the flagpole was constructed on a first class basis. It shows the commitment we all have for our city.” The Wentzville American Legion Post 323 also stepped in to lend a helping hand by agreeing to supply the flag that sits atop the flagpole and to also maintain the grounds surrounding the permanent structure. The American Legion members that were in attendance the day of the dedication had the honor to hook and raise the flag for the first time. It was breathtaking to watch that beautiful American flag be raised high for the very first time by the men who fought so tirelessly to keep our nation safe. So next time you are entering the Village Center of downtown Wentzville along Church Street, look up and see for yourself the beautiful new flagpole and monument dedicated to those who fought for the “Home of the Brave and the Land of the Free.” Photos by Laurie Simon All photos on page 10 & top right of page 11: The American Legion Post 323 raises the flag at a dedication ceremony on January 5, 2016. Bottom right photo page 11: Permanent Flag is raised high at the entrance to the Village Center off church Street.
What is “Run for the Wall”? The “Run for the Wall” is a sanctioned, yearly event where folks gather on motorcycle and cross-country making stops at pertinent Veterans memorials along the way, with their final destination being Washington, D.C./Arlington, VA. Three trips are planned – Midway, Central and Southern and on May 23, 2016 the Central route for “Run for the Wall” will be stopping in Wentzville. The “Run for the Wall” promotes healing among all veterans and their families and friends, to call for an accounting of all Prisoners of War and those Missing in Action (POW/MIA), to honor the memory of those Killed in Action (KIA) from all wars, and to support our military personnel all over the world.
We ride for those who can’t FEBRUARY 2016 | CROSSROADS
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2016 Dodge Charger
offers drivers an endless number of build combinations So what’s all this scuttlebutt regarding perplexing-automotive-hybrid-doohickey and gizmo-technology anyway? Let me try to break it down in the simplest terms! Of course, we need to start with a conventional gasoline engine as most of us might be accustomed to powering our daily commute vehicle, but with a mystifying hybrid powertrain, the engine is also mechanically linked with an electric motor (or motors) powered by a battery source for helping propel the vehicle down the road. And often (depending on the power and acceleration required) the gasoline engine will magically cycle “on” and “off” thus allowing the car to accelerate with just electric power, or at times, in concert with the gas engine working as one power source. The end game is improved fuel mileage numbers and lower tail pipe emissions. Having said that, Toyota Motors just recently introduced two of their latest 2016 hybridpowered vehicles. The first being their popular Prius, as this automobile was completely redone for the ‘16 model year. This newest model has a distinctively striking and headturning modern outer design. Improvements in its ride and handling characteristics, plus an elevated level of comfort and safety, further helps define the new Prius. With more than 3.5-million Prius owners, I’m certain that they would be pleasantly surprised in the latest version’s exceptional fuel mileage and a higher level of refinement and notable creature comforts. The outer aerodynamic design will be familiar; however, this model is longer, lower and wider than the outgoing version. It also has more interior room coupled with a more planted stance for handling agility. A selectable switch allows the driver to choose from “Normal” and “Power” driving modes. “Nor-
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mal” balances both fuel economy and acceleration while “Power” improves overall pick-up. Pricing starts out at $24,200 and it comes with complimentary factory-scheduled maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first. Oh but wait, Toyota is now making available for 2016 their heavily refreshed RAV4 SUV Hybrid as well! Competing in the popular compact sport utility arena, RAV4’s proven hybrid powertrain apparatus (besides offered with a traditional gas engine), makes for an extraordinarily welcome choice if fuel mileage is paramount on your new vehicle shopping list. The five-passenger 2016 RAV4 Hybrid offers up car-like handling, ride comfort and phenomenal fuel economy. Its target buyers are generally active/young couples wanting to make a statement in regard to their no compromise “vehicle of choice” and the environment in general. The MSRP for the 2016 RAV4 Hybrid is $28,370 for the AWD XLE and $33,610 for the AWD Limited. This vehicle brings the number of Toyota hybrid models to eight for the ‘16 model year. By DAVID FINKELSTEIN
David Finkelstein is a Master/Skill Automotive Service Technician, maintaining that role for over 45 years, coupled with being a shop owner in that time frame as well. He’s also invented a number of garage service tools for mechanics and has served on both National as well as local Automotive Trade Industry Boards. Additionally, he pioneered “Car Talk Radio” over 40 years ago, starting out with KMOX/CBS Radio as well as hosted “Auto Talk” on KFTK/FOX News Radio for some 15-years. David tests and evaluates new vehicles weekly and also does some consulting with various auto manufactures, both import as well as with domestic nameplates.
Entegra, a new family member
Advertiser Profiles
By Russ Patton, owner of Byerly RV
At the recent RV show, Byerly RV introduced to the St Louis market the Entegra luxury diesel motorhome. The Entegra Cornerstone model is designed for your rich uncle (we all have one) and the addition celebrates the marriage between two esteemed RV families, Byerly and Jayco. Other new products include: Fury and Spartan multi-purpose SRVs, Vilano 5th wheels from the Tiffin family, and RPod a popular mini lightweight travel trailer. Our selection of RVs includes over 20 brand names in all sizes, models and Photo courtesy Byerly RV prices. In fact, Byerly features 12 travel trailer models ranging At the recent RV show, Byerly RV introduced to the St Louis market the Entegra luxury diesel motorhome. from $12,000 to $20,000. Surely Byerly has something to fit vehicle choice. Rental direct line is 636-938-2018. everyone’s budget. Byerly RV is a local, family/employee owned company and one of Soon Byerly RVs monthly RV School will begin. Check out website the largest, most respected RV Dealers in the Midwest. Byerly, the or Facebook for a schedule of classes and events. RV rentals are booking up fast. Lower gas prices assure that 2016 Center of the RV World. Just 15 minutes west of I-270 on I-44 in will be a year of the “road trip.” Plan ahead to reserve your time and Eureka. www.byerlyrv.com.
After holiday ID theft prevention The hustle and bustle of holiday shopping is over, but in January the credit card bills start rolling in. Now is the time of the year to be most diligent in reviewing your account statements to ensure you have not become a victim of identity theft. Here are some things to look for when reviewing your statements: • Read over the transactions listed on each statement and verify that you made those purchases. • Keep an eye out for small dollar amount purchases that you don’t recognize. Lots of times Identity Thieves will make small dollar purchases that fall under the radar of credit monitoring programs to see if they can get away with using your credit. If the small purchases clear, larger ones usually follow. In addition to reviewing your statements, make sure any statements that you receive via the mail don’t sit in your mailbox for extended periods of time, inviting mail theft. If you receive your statements electronically, January is a good time to reset the passwords
for all your online accounts to help prevent unauthorized access. By using numbers, capitalizations, and symbols you create a complex but memorable password for your online portals. Lastly, any financial statements or bills that you have which are no longer needed should be properly disposed of. Shredding these unwanted documents makes it difficult for any potential criminals to discover your per-
sonal information. In digital records, ensure any unwanted files are destroyed through a specified program to ensure complete deletion from a system. If you do find a discrepancy on one of your credit card statements, you should have a customer help line phone number that you can call to help get the issue resolved. By Robin Daniels
Robin Daniels is Asst VP/ Secondary Market Manager for Peoples Bank & Trust Co. NMLS #408454 (636) 290-7272 | www.pbtc.net
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Always An Adventure Dorothy’s famous epiphany is experienced by anyone moving from the flatlands to the mountains, soon after arrival at high altitude. The first symptom is usually a shortness of breath, from reasons other than the view. That shortness of breath subsides after a few days as the body acclimates to the reduced oxygen levels, but the process can be quite unpleasant, sometimes progressing all the way to serious illness. New arrivals to the mountains quickly find that hiking and driving come with “steep” learning curves. Along with the reduced oxygen levels, elevation gains and losses are measured in thousands of feet, within just a few lineal miles. What looks like an easy day hike, as measured by inches on the map, can turn into a lung-searing death march within a matter of minutes on the trail. While oxygen concentration remains constant in the atmosphere, pressure drops with altitude, resulting in a reduction in blood oxygenation levels by about one percent for every 1,000 feet in elevation gain. In other words, at 10,000 feet above sea level, you’ll need to take one extra breath for every 10 breaths at sea level. Add in a steep, rocky trail, a light pack with a few extra pounds of water, food and extra clothing for the storms that suddenly appear, and the most capable athlete can be humbled in short order. Gravity is constant and unforgiving, especially with less-than-normal oxygen levels. For those not in good shape, the mountains can be inhospitable places. You don’t see too many people carrying around a lot of extra weight, or puffing on cigarettes here. Many arrive and quickly realize that filling the lungs with tar and carbon monoxide is a bad habit; and those extra unneeded pounds have a negative impact on more
than just appearance. A few weeks at altitude does more to promote smoking cessation and weight-loss efforts than all the hand-wringing and proselytizing of sea-level health crusaders could ever achieve. And then there’s the driving. With snowfall possible in any month of the year, a working knowledge of friction coefficients (traction) and the physical dynamics of a large object in motion become more than dry, theoretical classroom exercises. The only way to learn to control those forces is through the experience of driving on slick roads, which has been minimal, for those who have arrived during the last few years of record-dry winters. One of the newer residents commented that there was a lot of snow this year, and the roads were really slick. A quick check of the online backcountry snow level reports (SNOTEL sites) showed that this year’s snowpack is 100 percent of average. It doesn’t get any more middle-of-the-road than this. Fortunately, that particular neighbor is a sharp guy, loves the mountains, and has had no problems. Other recent arrivals, particularly those from warmer climates, have had some unpleasant, and sometimes expensive, learning experiences. Four-wheel-drive is important, but it only serves to propel the vehicle in a forward direction. Stopping and turning are still governed by the limits of adhesion, which are quite minimal on snow and ice. Lots of horsepower and big fat tires might work great in deep mud, but have launched more than one driver into a snowbank of embarrassment and unplanned expense. I’ve used my tow strap more this winter than during the last five years combined, pulling vehicles out of unscheduled off-road excursions. It’s been time consuming and a little frustrating, until I remember one of my own early learning experiences, with my brand-new used truck wedged against a tree, pointing at an unnatural angle toward the sky. Some bemused longtime locals took pity on me, and showed me how to get out of such an entanglement without further damage. The unwritten, and unbroken, rule is that the rescued must then go on to become the rescuer of those in the early stages their learning process.
“Toto, we’re not in Kansas anymore!”
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. www.treesbywoody.net
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Moore On Life
Birthday blunders
Ahh, February. The time for showing love and remembering that singular someone who has cared unendingly, sacrificed unceasingly and toiled unselfishly. Also, it’s a time to give that particular person a little something extra special to show extra-special appreciation for all that extra-special dedication and hard work. Valentine’s Day, you say? Not hardly! It’s my extra-special birthday this month! But I guess if some other event has to butt in on my sweet gig, then it might as well be one for which I can acquire a box of chocolates as well. Ya…it’s all about me this month. However, this creates a dilemma. You may ask how a problem can exist if a load of presents is about to be dropped upon my person. I will tell you, because if I don’t use care and my language skills precisely, I’ll suffer the same dire consequences as in prior years. Case in point: Years back and on the big day my husband asked, “My darling, it has come to my attention that your date of birth is upon us. Pray tell, what shiny accessories and costly accoutrements does my sweet mooshkins desire to make her fondest dreams come true?” Actually it came across more like, “You really don’t want anything today do you?” Earlier that morning, I reminded him that it was a special day. He jumped up with a foolish grin pasted
on his face then got less flexing a flabby bicep in my direction ready and sped off in and said, “Is that awesome enough for ya?” the car. Hours later So if I sound a little self-serving it’s only behe came back after cause if I’m not proactive I’ll receive a bunch spending the entire of excuses or disastrous misunderstandings day at Manly Man’s with no receipts for a refund. Tool and TestosterInstead, I have developed a new strategy. one Store which deals This year, I will rely on that ancient lost art in all things paint, to remind him. I will actually write down my plumbing and ply- list of requests on a sticky note then attach wood. it to his forehead. That way there will be no I met him at the silly mix-ups and I will get something excitdoor dressed up and ing, useful and loads of fun. Oops…I have ready to go with my to be careful not to say that out loud or I arms crossed and a will most certainly receive a gift card from curt reminder of the Manly Man’s Tool and Testosterone Store. birthday dinner I exby Cindy Moore pected on my special Cindy Moore is the mother of day. three superlative kids, servant He said, “Well, why of two self-indulgent felines and didn’t you say so? I thought when you said, wife to one nifty husband. Her special day, it was to remind me of the lumficticious occupation? Archeober store’s half-off sales today.” logical Humorist: someone who Death stare. unearths absurdity and hilarity “Happy birthday,” he said while handing in strange and unusual places including public restrooms, me a new snow shovel with the sale tag still the lint filter, and church meetings. Most recently, she excavated a find in her neighbor’s bird feeder. attached. Another year, I mistakenly asked for something to make my life a little easier expecting a new dishwasher or at the very least, a live-in nanny. Instead, I became the proud recipient of a sprinkler system. So I must be prepared and avoid the foolish mistakes of the past. This time: I cannot merely hint that I want something that smells good and expect expensive perfume or flowers and be disappointed when I receive pine tree-shaped car fresheners. This year: I cannot just say I would really like a delicious meal and be in shock when we pull up to Bubba’s Bodacious Burger Bar. This time: I will not ask for new pj’s by saying I would like something smooth and silky that feels good on me only to receive a gallon of fabric softener. This year: I will not expect to receive a new iPod by hinting about something that sounds good only to have him say, “Wanna go fishin’? That sounds good!” This time: I will not hope to go out and see the latest movie by suggesting that I would like to see something awesome. After that request, he came out from the closet shirt-
www.takeatrip.net
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Entertainment
Trivia of the 88th Annual Academy Awards Sunday, Feb.28 is the big night for the entertainment industry It seems like only yesterday when the 68th Academy Awards rewarded “Braveheart” for Best Picture twenty years ago – barely topping the other favorite “Apollo 13.” Back then Mel Gibson won Best Director (“Braveheart”). This year it could be Alejandro González Iñárritu (“The Revenant”) for a possible second consecutive win. Nicolas Cage (“Leaving Las Vegas”) and Susan Sarandon (“Dead Man Walking”) won Oscars for Best Actor and Actress in their Leading Roles. This time it could be Leonardo DiCaprio and Brie Larson. Here I’m going to share with you some interesting trivia among the nominees themselves in some of the categories – particularly the ones where I can personally ramble on about with pure excitement. BEST PICTURE This category is the most diverse list of movie genres that have been chosen since – I can’t even remember. We have everything from period dramas (“Bridge Of Spies” and “Brooklyn”), the low-budget sensation (“Room”), a true story (“Spotlight”), a true story with a daring narrative twist (“The Big Short”), a true tale of survival (“The Revenant”), and two sci-fi thrillers (the postapocalyptic “Mad Max: Fury Road” and the space survival-and-rescue mission “The Martian”). “Mad Max” has earned itself 10 nominations total and “The Martian” with seven. “Spotlight” was the early front-runner when released, but with twelve nominations it’s “The Revenant” that is right up there now.
BEST DIRECTOR When Lenny Abrahamson was mentioned for “Room” you could here the gasps in the room during the announcement - this was a pleasant surprise. Adam McKay (“The Big Short”) received some well-deserved cheers. Tom McCarthy (“Spotlight”) was a sure lock. In the end, this may be between George Miller (“Mad Max: Fury Road”) and Alejandro G. Iñárritu (“The Revenant”). BEST LEADING ACTOR AND ACTRESS It’s now certain that Leonardo DiCaprio (“The Revenant”) and Brie Larson (“Room”) are the Best Actor and Actress front-runners for their leading roles. Larson is will be up against – at least - two previous winners Jennifer Lawrence (“Joy”) and Cate Blanchett (Carol). DiCaprio’s competition is quite stiff – particularly with Michael Fassbender (“Steve Jobs”), and last year’s winner Eddie Redmayne (“The Danish Girl”). It’s a tight race, but I think this is finally Leo’s year. BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR AND ACTRESS Sylvester Stallone may get a well-deserved win for playing Rocky Balboa once more in “Creed.” Tom Hardy (“The Revenant”) was a nice surprise and I couldn’t be more thrilled that Mark Ruffalo and Rachel McAdams were both recognized for “Spotlight”, but my real favorite is Mark Rylance (“Bridge Of Spies”) who just effortlessly nailed every scene he’s in. A big omission is Idris Elba (“Beasts Of No Nation”). For the ladies – along with Adams – it’s all
up in the air, but I believe it’s between Tarantino’s female player, Jennifer Jason Leigh (“The Hateful Eight”) and Rooney Mara (“Carol”). BEST ORIGINAL SCORE AND CINEMATOGRAPHY CATEGORIES The two former first-time Oscar nominees of “The Shawshank Redemption” have each received their thirteenth nominations this year – still neither have won. We’re talking about composer Thomas Newman for scoring Steven Spielberg’s “Bridge Of Spies” and cinematographer Roger Deakins for shooting “Sicario.” Newman’s competition is – the same man he stood in for – John Williams (“Star Wars: The Force Awakens”) and most notably Ennio Morricone (“The Hateful Eight”) as the other composer who already received The Academy’s Lifetime Achievement Award. This could be Morricone’s first real win. As for Deakin’s competition, he’s – once again – up against Emmanuel Lubezki’s (“The Revenant”) impeccable tracking shots in 100 percent natural wilderness lighting. It’s expected to be Lubezki’s third consecutive win after “Birdman” and “Gravity.” “Straight Outta Compton” thankfully received a Best Screenplay nomination, but I still wish it received even more recognition in the end – including Jason Mitchell’s whole-hearted performance as Eazy-E. I also admit to being sad that “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” did not make the Best Picture list, but it did receive a total of five nominations - including for Best Editing. It’s still the most exciting list of nominees I’ve heard in quite some time. For the full list of the nominees please visit oscars.com and see if any of your favorites will take home the gold. By Brian GuerRero
Brian Guerrero is a former resident of Los Angeles and a current resident of New York City with extensive experience in front of and behind the camera for film and television.
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CROSSROADS | FEBRUARY 2016
For the Love of Food
Four reasons to use canola oil When it’s time to get cooking, do you really know your oil? Some oils are great for high temperatures, others can’t take the heat. Some are heart-smart, while others are loaded with saturated fat. “As a dietitian, I want an oil that’s healthy, and when I cook, I want an oil that’s versatile and performs consistently,” said Manuel Villacorta, R.D., author of “Whole Body Reboot.” Sarah-Jane Bedwell, R.D., nutrition columnist at “Self” and author of “Schedule Me Skinny,” echoes Villacorta, noting the ideal is an everyday cooking oil that’s low in saturated fat and high in heat tolerance. “It’s important that people understand the differences among cooking oils as they can’t be used interchangeably in everything you cook,” she said. “With 100 percent canola oil, I know what I’m getting in the kitchen and on my plate. It’s healthy and works in everything – an ‘all in one’ cooking oil.” Here are four reasons Villacorta and Bedwell both prefer canola oil: 1. It’s healthy. Canola oil contains the least saturated fat – about half that of olive, soybean, corn and sunflower oils – and the most plant-based omega-3 fat of all common cooking oils. Research shows that eating 1 1/2 tablespoons of canola oil daily in place of saturated fat can help reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. Canola oil may also help control blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes. 2. It’s neutral. Canola oil has no taste and a light texture (unlike olive or coconut oils), which is what you want when preparing a spicy Mexican feast, tart lemon cake or an herb-laced dressing, such as Salsa Vinaigrette or Honey Lemon Vinaigrette. The flavors of your ingredients, not your oil, take center stage. Other oils have heavier textures than canola oil.
Salsa Vinaigrette Yield: 1 cup
Ingredients: 1/2 cup salsa 1/3 cup water 2 tablespoons canola oil 2 tablespoons lime juice 1 tablespoon minced cilantro 1 teaspoon granulated sugar 1 garlic clove, crushed
Directions: In container with tight-fitting lid, combine salsa, water, canola oil, lime juice, cilantro, sugar and garlic. Shake well.
Honey Lemon Vinaigrette Yield: 1/2 cup
3. It can take the heat. Broil, sear or even deep-fry to your heart’s content. Canola oil has one of the highest heat tolerances of any cooking oil (smoke point of 468 F), so it’s an ideal kitchen partner. 4. It’s affordable. Canola oil costs about the same as vegetable oil, but with canola oil, you know which oil is in the bottle. Vegetable oil may actually be any number of different oils. For more recipes and facts about canola oil, visit canolainfo.org.
Ingredients: 2 teaspoons finely minced lemon zest 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice 1 1/2 tablespoons honey 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/4 cup canola oil
Directions: In medium bowl, whisk together lemon zest and juice, honey, salt and pepper. Slowly add canola oil, whisking briskly and continuously until emulsified. Serve with greens. FEBRUARY 2016 | CROSSROADS
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Photo Op
Wentzville Unity Walk
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CROSSROADS | FEBRUARY 2016
Photographer Ray Rockwell braved the cold on Martin Luther King Day, Jan. 18, for a Unity Walk held in Wentzville. The walk began at Wentzville City Hall and ended at the intersection of Pearce and Luetkenhaus Boulevards. Photos By Ray Rockwell
Community Calendar
February: 1 – National Freedom Day
14 – Valentine’s Day
2 – Groundhog Day
14-15 – Theater auditions
5 – Trivia night The Child Center, Inc. & CHAMP Assistance Dogs present Super Hero For Kids Trivia Night at 7 p.m. (doors open at 6 p.m.) at O’Fallon Elks Lodge at 1163 Tom Ginnever Ave. in O’Fallon. Help the Child Center and CHAMP place highly-trained facility dogs to bring comfort and support to children who have suffered abuse or neglect. Register online at www.thechildcenter.com or contact Danielle Alsup at 636-332-0899.
8 – Chinese New Year 10 – Ash Wednesday 13 - Pancake breakfast The Lake St. Louis Mothers Club is hosting Chris Cakes Pancake Breakfast/Brunch Fundraiser at the Lake Saint Louis Community Association Ballroom at 100 Cognac Ct. in Lake Saint Louis at both 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Activities for the event include: catching your flap jacks, raffle baskets, 50/50 drawing, a family picture, face painting and a Valentine’s craft. Space is limited, please purchase tickets in advance. Cost for an adult (age 13+) is $10 in advance, $13 at the door. Cost for a child (age 3-12) is $7 in advance, $10 at the door; children 0-2 are free (Children 0-2 may sit on your lap, strollers are welcome). Tickets may be purchased online at www.lslmothersclub.com or with a check using the form on the back of the flyer (can be downloaded on www.lslmothersclub.com).
Wentzville Christian Church announces auditions for Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” Feb.14 from 1- 2 p.m. for ages 14 and younger and 2 – 6 p.m. for ages 15 and older; and Feb. 15 from 5 – 6 p.m. for ages 14 and younger and 6 – 9 p.m. for ages 15 and older. Those auditioning should come prepared to sing 20-30 measures of a Broadway style song. An accompanist will be provided. Please bring your own sheet music in the correct key. Actors will also be asked to read from the script and learn/ perform a short dance. Actors auditioning for a lead role will be asked to sing a song from the musical. Please check the church website (www. wentzvillecc.org) for additional information. Production dates are May 6 8. Wentzville Christian Church is located at 1507 Highway Z in Wentzville. If you have any questions, please call Tammy at 636-219-3238.
15 – Presidents’ Day 20 – Hunting Heritage Banquet The National Wild Turkey Federation St. Charles County Long Spurs Chapter will sponsor its annual “Hunting Heritage Banquet” beginning at 5:30 p.m. in the St. Theodore Parish Center gymnasium in Flint Hill/Wentzville. The event includes dinner, an open bar, and one one-year membership in the NWTF. Tickets are $70 per couple or $55 for one person. There will be games, raffles, a silent auction and a live auction. Proceeds are all used to provide wildlife habitat and promote outdoor activities in Missouri. For advance tickets, call 314-952-0016. Tickets also are available at the door.
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