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Parentsâ€™ Summer Survival Guide

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CROSSROADS | MAY 2016

JUNE 2016

contents

VOL 13 | NO 6

Departments

4 6 8

Published monthly with newsstand circulation to Wentzville and Lake Saint Louis plus newsstands in O’Fallon, Troy, Lake Sherwood and Augusta.

Around Town Local news and events Simon Says The uncomfortable truths of pregnancy Always an Adventure Revisiting dogs, phones and fires Moore on Life King of the hill

Automobile Alley ‘Cutesy’ Jeep Renegade offers plenty of power and versatility

Editor Mathew DeKinder

Production Manager Rebecca Brockmann

Business Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce Entertainment ‘Independence Day’ resurges (with a sequel) after twenty years

Publisher Robert Huneke

Contributors Avalanche, David Finkelstein, Jenny Krestel, Tony Mathews, Cindy Moore, Russ Patton, Laurie Simon Photographer Ray Rockwell Staff Writer Brett Auten For advertising information, please contact us at:

features

Food Simply sweet summer entertaining

Photo Op Wentzville’s Walk to Stop Heroin

Community Calendar: June

7 10

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

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.

Parents’ Summer Survival Guide Western St. Charles County offers plenty of fun ways to keep the kids busy during summer break By Brett Auten

www.mycnews.com

Nonprofit Profile St. Louis HELP loans home health equipment to people for free

Advertiser Profiles Weighing the pros and cons of buying a home By Jenny Krestel

‘Quantity Time’ – an old-fashioned idea By Russ Patton

On the Cover: Submitted photo

JUNE 2016 | CROSSROADS

Around Town

Headliners announced for

O’Fallon’s Heritage & Freedom Fest 2016 Speaking at the April 28 City Council meeting, Mayor Bill Hennessy announced the nationally-known entertainers set to perform, free, at O’Fallon, Missouri’s Heritage & Freedom Fest. Country music’s rising star Chris Bryant and Nashville’s acclaimed Love and Theft will take the main stage on July 3 and the sensational KONGOS with special guest Sister Hazel will rock the festival on July 4. O’Fallon’s 2016 Heritage & Freedom Fest will be held July 2-4 at the Ozzie Smith Sports Complex at 900 T. R. Hughes Boulevard in O’Fallon. “We’re proud to bring top-name talent to our city for everyone in the region to hear and see in person and celebrate our country’s independence,” said Hennessy. “In addition to free concerts by these great artists, we’ll have two nights of exceptional fireworks displays, free sideshows, kids’ activities, three days of thrilling carnival rides and the biggest Fourth of July parade in St. Charles County. I’m

proud to say that O’Fallon’s Independence Day weekend celebration is one of the largest and most popular in the metro area.” The fest kicks off with family entertainment from 2 – 10 p.m. on July 2, featuring carnival rides, a colorful midway with food and games, Knockerball, the Krazy Kids bungee jump, the Bubblebus and shows by strongman John Beatty, a finalist on “America’s Got Talent.” The fun continues on Sunday from 2-11 p.m. and Monday from noon – 10 p.m. with concerts by nationally-recognized artists and popular regional musicians, more sideshows, carnival rides and games and fireworks displays on both nights. Festival information and song samples by headliners are available at www.heritageandfreedomfest.com.

Wentzville Girl Scouts team up to clean up Working together to bring an overgrown outdoor classroom back to life, a group of local Girl Scouts recently learned about the importance of teamwork and cooperation. The fifth-grade Girl Scouts in Troop 3546 at Crossroads Elementary School in Wentzville were searching for a service project to complete while earning the Animal Habitat Badge, when they realized the answer was right in front of them—or, technically, behind them. The outdoor education center at the back of the school’s property was overgrown and in need of major maintenance. Created more than a decade ago to offer educators an outdoor space for teaching and with features like bat houses to promote wildlife, the area hadn’t been maintained for years. “The troop has held its meetings at Crossroads Photo courtesy Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri since the girls were in kindergarten, and they wanted Scouts in Troop 3546 at Crossroads Elementary School in Wentzville helped restore the outdoor education center at to do a Bronze Award project that gave back to the Girl the back of the school’s property to earn the Girl Scout Bronze Award. school,” said troop leader Susan Mulherin. “Restoring the education center meant the girls could help the school, fin- building a picnic table and restoring three others so that students ish the requirements for the Animal Habitat Badge and earn their have places to sit while learning. Girl Scout Bronze Award all at once.” “I learned that a little work and effort can go a long way,” said Girl The girls set to work, but not without help from family and com- Scout Nora Foeller about the project. “We’re not only helping ourmunity members. One of the girls’ fathers, the owner of Baxter selves by learning new things and increasing our confidence, we’re Gardens of Chesterfield, brought in heavy equipment to clear out also helping our community and reaching our goal of making the the larger bushes, vines and trees. Spending several Saturdays on world a better place.” the project, the girls and their families cleared the debris before The Girl Scout Bronze Award is the highest honor a Girl Scout Julaying groundcover fabric, hauling and spreading woodchips, and nior—girls in fourth and fifth grade—can achieve. To receive the laying landscape timber. Mueller Brothers Timber, Inc. donated the Bronze Award, Girl Scouts must explore an issue in their commuwood chips, and Home Depot O’Fallon donated and delivered the nity, create a plan and put the plan in motion, spending at least 20 landscape timbers. A local Boy Scout completing his Eagle Award is hours completing the project.

CROSSROADS | JUNE 2016

Around Town

100 Women Who Care contribute

$6,800 to Luke’s Legacy

On April 25, 100 Women Who Care - St. Charles County voted to give their first quarterly donation to Luke’s Legacy. The April donation of $6,800 will go towards Luke’s Legacy’s mission to help prevent drivers from driving while drunk by telling the story of Luke Maue who passed away at age seven from a drunk driver. For more information on Luke’s Legacy, visit www.lukeslegacy.org. “It’s empowering for the women in our group to know that their combined donations can make a huge impact for a deserving non-profit,” said Linda Johnson, co-founder of local chapter. 100 Women Who Care St. Charles County is Submitted photo a group of women who share a common de- On April 25, 100 Women Who Care - St. Charles County voted to give their first quarterly donation of $6,800 to Luke’s Legacy. sire to give back to our community. The group is open to all women — the more women who get involved, the pledges to donate $100 to a St. Charles County non-profit charity selected at each of four annual meetings held in January, April, July, greater the impact will be. Here is how it works. Members join the organization and sign a and October. The next quarterly meeting will be held 7 p.m. on July commitment to donate $400 total during the year. Every member 25 at Morning Star Church at 1600 Feise Road in Dardenne Prairie.

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www.byerlyrv.com JUNE 2016 | CROSSROADS

Simon Says

The uncomfortable truths of

pregnancy

After almost four months of being happily married, my husband and I were surprised to find out we were expecting a baby. While extremely happy and thrilled to be welcoming a little one, I will admit there were certain aspects of this whole pregnancy thing that took me for a ride. Now, I know many of you out there have been-thereand-done-that but this is all new to me, so bare with me. This month I decided to get a bit more real with you lovely readers of Crossroads Magazine, and let you in on the secret life of the mommy-to-be, with me being your guide. Baby Brain Okay, I will admit I have heard of people saying they have had pregnancy brain, or baby brain but I honestly never really thought it was real. I guess I just thought it was an excuse that women (and some men) use to get out of things. As a non-parent I would kind of just take things from the movies and shows I watched on T.V. That was until I became pregnant. It wasn’t an immediate memory loss for me as I more noticed it a few months in. Here are a few of my favorite things I have managed to forget… 1. I left for work one morning only to have to turn around a third of the way there because I forgot to let the dog out. The dog, my princess as I call her (good thing I’m having a boy), is eight years old. It’s not like I just encountered pet ownership. And to top it off for the first seven years of her life I lived in a condo and had to physically take her out each time to go to the bathroom. Where did my brain go? 2. My husband and I were having a garage sale so I decided to wash a few glass cups in the sink. I put in the stopper, added the soap and cups and started running the almost-

CROSSROADS | JUNE 2016

boiling hot tap water. I thought it was a good idea to run upstairs to grab something before the sink filled up. Bad move on my part. After almost twenty minutes of me doing everything except washing the cups, I realized the sink was still running. Thank goodness we have a double sink or I would have flooded the entire kitchen. Oops! Emotional Rollercoaster Whoever said pregnancy is an emotional rollercoaster was playing it down a bit, okay a lot. It’s more like an emotional tornado that comes crashing in early and stays way too late. I will say though that my husband has been a trooper through the whole process and that has helped tremendously. I imagine I look somewhat like Godzilla with a ponytail when it comes to me getting upset. A big, scary monster embarking on you, yet sweet and cute with a blonde ponytail to mask the shear danger and fear I put off. I’m sure my husband would say otherwise. Like I said, he’s a trooper. Here is my favorite meltdown he has had to encounter… While reading the book “Pregnancy 911” I decided that since I have had a fairly normal/ easy-ish pregnancy that my luck would run out and something horrible would happen. I immediately staring sobbing thinking our baby was doomed and that I had caused it. I then convinced myself that since I wasn’t go-

ing to bring a healthy baby into the world that I was already a horrible mother and surely couldn’t do a good job at this parenting thing. A box of Kleenex later and my husband’s comforting words, I calmed down and began thinking of all the great things we have in store for us and our baby. Life is great! The world is beautiful! And my husband now thinks I should be next on the list for the loony bin. I know that there are millions of women out there who have been pregnant before, but honestly there is nothing anyone can say to you that will completely prepare you for what’s in store. I knew I could feel sick, nauseous, scared and tired but never did I fully comprehend the magnitude of how emotionally and mentally draining this would be. Pregnancy is a wild rollercoaster full of fear and the unknown that turns to happiness, joy, anticipation and peace. Being my first time at this, I am navigating my way through as best I can with the help and support of many people around me, my husband being my number one. Without him I would be lost, I would be scared and I would have been locked away in the loony bin a long time ago. To all you first time parents out there just trying to make it through these 40 weeks like I am, I salute you as we are in this together. Now, bring on that delivery day! by LAURIE Simon

Laurie Simon was just married and is settling into blissful newlywed life. She enjoys laying by the pool with friends, getting away to her family lake house on weekends, walking her four-legged baby Maggie and spending every second possible with her new husband.

Nonprofit Profile

St. Louis HELP loans home health equipment to people for free When people learn that the St. Louis Health Equipment Lending Program (St. Louis HELP) loans home health equipment for free to anyone who needs it, they, too, often want to help (http://stlhelp.org). “In 2015 we loaned 5,570 health equipment items for free to people suffering from illness, injury or a disability who didn’t have the medical equipment they need because they can’t afford it,” says Laura Cannon Singer, who founded St. Louis HELP in 2008. “Every year, we collect about 11,000 items of donated equipment,” she says. “We clean and revitalize that home health Submitted photo equipment and then loan it to Louis HELP Executive Director Laura Cannon Singer unloads a truck full of equipment at the group’s Olivette warehouse with her husband Michael, who is a board people for as long as they need St. member at St. Louis HELP. it. We loan manual and electric wheelchairs; scooters; walkers, crutches, canes; hospital beds; Since 2008 St. Louis HELP has loaned more than 50,000 home health items to people throughout greater St. Louis. A one-minute portable commodes; elevated toilet seats; lift chairs — and more.” In 2015 St. Louis HELP diverted about 150 tons of equipment from public service video that showcases St. Louis HELP can be viewed solid waste landfills by collecting, reconditioning and loaning home on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qxddQ6VJcxs. St. Louis HELP is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization. All financial health equipment items. Nothing goes to waste. Broken equipment parts are used for repairs. Broken wooden crutches are recycled to gifts and equipment donations are tax deductible. St. Louis HELP’s annual fund raising event “Wine at the Warea wood chipper. St. Louis HELP accepts virtually every type of home medical de- house” is set for Sept. 15 at the group’s warehouse in Olivette. The vice for restoration at its warehouse in Olivette, and also hosts area- St. Louis Metro Square and Round Dance Association is hosting a wide equipment donation drives twice a year. Its next home health benefit dance on Oct. 30 at the Kirkwood Community Center. Tickequipment drive is Oct. 8 when people can drop off used home ets are $6. A portion of the proceeds will benefit St. Louis HELP. Call 636-937-0007 for tickets. health equipment at any of 12 designated Walgreen’s parking lots. “We are deeply moved by the stories of people who donate equipment to us, and the many we help,” she says. We provide equipment to people of all ages. We learned of a sick little girl who did not have the leg strength to operate the pedals of a bicycle. We were thrilled to provide that young girl with a hand-powered bike — for the very first time she could join her mother, father and sister for a bike ride and picnic in the park. Her freedom and independence made her family so very happy! Our mission is gloriously satisfying, yet we To learn more about the St. Louis Health Equipment couldn’t achieve our goals without people who help St. Louis HELP and our volunteers. Every donation makes a positive difference for Lending Program, please visit http://stlhelp.org or people in our community and supports recycling.” call 314 567–4700. Thank you! JUNE 2016 | CROSSROADS

Always An Adventure

Revisiting dogs, phones and fires ject that weighs less than a small-sized soy latte, perhaps the problem is not so much “overuse,” but rather a lifetime of “underuse” and weakness. One remedy would be to put down the phone, pick up a barbell and start a strength training program, gradually adding weight to the bar as the body adapts to the higher loads. That should help support vigorous, marathon texting sessions. If nothing else, the added strength and muscle mass will help the body be more resilient and heal faster after walking into a telephone pole or moving car. (Disclosure: I learned of the above listed conditions via wireless device; then performed heavy deadlifts as penance.) The dearly departed D’Artagnan the Newfoundland.

Dog This column contains follow-ups from other installments. Regular readers (I know you exist, as you come into the Community News office asking for copies of my articles; many thanks from myself, the publisher and our advertisers!) have followed my tales of D’Artagnan the Newfoundland over the years. He passed away last week, on the front porch where he spent much time, tended to by his friends and a kind veterinary team on a house call. The big mutt showed up here many years ago, uninvited and initially unwelcome, and successfully managed to work his way into our home and our hearts. He made it to nearly 14 years old, an impressive run for a big dog. We miss him.

Phones In a recent column (April 2016) I pointed out the distress experienced by those who cannot bear to live without cell coverage out here in our remote area. As it turns out, there is a term for this condition: “Nomophobia,” an irrational fear of lack of digital connectivity. Now a doctor can accurately diagnose this affliction and presumably treat it with some type of prescription drug that might mask this disorder, at the expense of any number of side-effects, most of which are worse than the initial condition. In addition to the psychiatric dysfunction, there are numerous musculoskeletal maladies associated with the obsessive-compulsive engagement with a mobile device. Consequences of the 21st century’s favorite obsession include sore necks, poor posture, distracted pedestrians colliding with stationary objects and moving vehicles, and a strange pinky-finger injury that is the result of supporting a six ounce phone with the fifth digit for long periods of time. If one suffers from an “overuse” injury by merely supporting an ob-

CROSSROADS | JUNE 2016

Smoke filling the valley during a controlled burn.

Fire Last month’s column (May 2016) dealt with fire as a landscape and wildlife management tool. I mentioned how this year’s controlled burn didn’t amount to much, just a few small singed areas. It seems that those initial fires were merely “blacklines,” or back-burns conducted to set a perimeter around the main area to be burned later. Shortly after the May issue went to press, the Forest Service conducted the main prescribed burns...and wow! Smoke filled the valleys and obscured the view of the surrounding mountains. The conditions were just right for the burn, with lots of dead and dry material for combustion, and a good amount of snow up high to stop the spread of flame. As always, it was unnerving to see flames above the treetops just a little over a mile from the neighborhood. The fires smoldered for a couple days, and were then doused with a drenching rain. Two ranchers conducted some ditch burning a couple of weeks later, and both their fires got out of control and had to be extinguished by the local fire department. No injuries and no extensive property damage occurred, but it was a reminder that things don’t always go as planned. As this issue goes to press, it’s been raining and snowing for the last week; fire season is temporarily on hold. We’re still blissfully devoid of cell coverage; but sadly, missing a favorite dog. Photos courtesy Avalanche and Bigstock

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.

Moore On Life

King of the hill My husband is looking forward to special treatment this month. That day which we recognize the fathers in our lives is fast approaching and that means it’s time to honor someone in my home who is sweet, but sleeps on the couch entirely too much; someone who pigs out at mealtime and always demands seconds; is not into exercise and getting a midlife pooch-bag on his underbelly; is cute but needs to trim his gangly whiskers and has an overabundance of back hair. This is also someone who growls at me over the littlest annoyances such as preparing the wrong thing for dinner, which causes him to be moody and sulk in another room; somebody who claims to be king of the castle while I am just his maidservant constantly cleaning up after him and lastly, someone who dominates the bed at night and pushes me to the side while at other times can’t keep his paws off of me. Yes, even on Father’s Day my husband gets second billing to the cat. Sorry, Dear. Not too long ago the final chick in our nest fell in love and got married. I think it was actually to escape the madness and resume sanity. It’s still up for debate. So with the house quiet and empty, we felt a need to liven things up. Enter two rescue cats; one for my husband and one for me. Scooter is my husband’s cat. He is gray, neutered and has an abundance of belly fat. So does Scooter. They are a match made in heaven. Ticker is my boy. He is a black and white tuxedo and rules over our tiny kingdom and supervises his staff of agreeable peasants with a firm paw. He takes no lip from anyone unless it’s both of them with the sharp ends of his claws. He struts around the house with his nose in the air snootily and wiping his tiny white-gloved mitt along the furniture checking for dust or filled beverage glasses that need to be knocked over. But this kitty is as smart as any smart cat can get. The boy’s got skills. Ticker can fetch a ball and shake hands and catch flies in mid-flight to snack on and play ping-pong under the doorway. He can even toss up a gummy hairball on the carpet each and

every time he needs to hack, even though he’s directly next to the easier-to-clean tile floor. That takes some thinking! Even though Scooter was adopted first, Ticker is alpha cat and he made that known right away by pinning Scooter down and biting him into submission. It wasn’t much of a conquest. Scooter is fat… like a large, hairy, beached manatee kind of fat. Ticker didn’t hurt him much because he was not fully able to penetrate the layers of blubber to make a puncture wound. He ended up instead spitting out gobs of hair. But Scooter readily demoted himself to beta cat and frankly, found it a relief. It required too much energy to be in charge and totally inconvenienced his favorite past time—napping. He is a professional lounger. This cat uses all his waking hours to sleep and will not exert an ounce of energy for much of anything else. He maintains a mild temper because even sulking burns too many fat cells--a total waste of caloric intake. Afterwards, he’d have to make up for that physical exertion by transporting himself over to the food bowl to replenish. Given the choice, he would rather not move. And because of that, does not fully understand the reason for his legs. He only incorporates movement when kibble-time is calling, and it calls quite often to sustain his substantial girth. Even so we love our kitty boys and they get pampered beyond what is deemed normal. The kids better hope we don’t die off soon because the cats will stand to inherit their birthright. So if they’re reading this, I suggest they pick up their handheld devices and give us a call a little more often, and especially since Father’s Day is approaching. It would probably work in their favor to say meow when we answer. by Cindy Moore

Cindy Moore is the mother of three superlative kids, servant of two self-indulgent felines and wife to one nifty husband. Her ficticious occupation? Archeological Humorist: someone who unearths absurdity and hilarity in strange and unusual places including public restrooms, the lint filter, and church meetings. Most recently, she excavated a find in her neighbor’s bird feeder.

JUNE 2016 | CROSSROADS

Parents’ Summer Survival Guide

Western St. Charles County offers plenty of fun ways to keep the kids busy during summer break By Brett Auten

t is the time of year when children rejoice and parents sigh. By the time you are reading this, the new car smell of summer break has been replaced with the never ending chant of, “what are we going to do today?” Look no further than the Crossroads Magazine Parents’ Summer Survival Guide and before you know it, the back-to-school commercials will be a ringing in your ears. We have combed through the brochures and advertisements to help offer a wide array of activities, no matter what the age of the little cereal eater sitting over there on the couch. We’ll start out west where Kory O’Laughlin with the Wentzville Park and Recreation Department has plenty to offer.

CROSSROADS | JUNE 2016

Reading on the go in Wentzville For those in your group with shorter legs, the recently built Storybook Walk should do the trick. Young readers can engage in popular books in a picturesque park setting thanks to a new initiative by Friends of the Wentzville Parks and the St. Charles City/County Library Foundation. At Storybook Walk, now open in Heartland Park, children can follow the pages of a story posted along a .75-mile walking trail. Storybook Walk is designed to encourage families to connect by spending time outdoors, while also supporting early childhood development and promoting exercise and activity. “Waiting,” by Kevin

Henkes, will be on display through mid-September. New books will be selected quarterly. Each book will include a special launch event. Families can help celebrate the new trail and the first story at 7 p.m. June 3, with a group walk and craft activity, followed by a free outdoor movie. Pre-registration is encouraged, but not required. Call 636-332-9236. Heartland Park is located at 100 William Dierberg Dr. in Wentzville. “The Storybook Walk just opened,” O’Laughlin said. “We think it is a real cool way for families to connect.” There is also a Storybook Walk located just behind Quail Ridge Lodge on a paved trail along a pond. Make sure you mark down June 11 as the Superhero Hustle – Obstacle Fun Run for Kids will sure to be a hit for your little caped crusader. Held at Rotary Park, the event is

geared towards four-to-13-year-olds. “We encouraged the kids to dress up as their favorite superheroes as they go through the course,” O’Laughlin said. “In all, there are about eight obstacles to go through. There will be different superheroes stationed throughout the course to help cheer everyone on.” For the uber athlete in the bunch, Wentzville will have its first Youth Triathlon on July 23 for ages five-12. For any and all information, check www.facebook.com/wentzville. parks/ and wentzvillemo.org/departments/parks_and_recreation.

Camping with gators in Lake Saint Louis In Lake Saint Louis, kids talk about Camp Gator every summer. Camp Gator is a fun filled weekly outdoor program that is designed for children ages 5-12. Camp includes games, sports, arts and crafts, field trips and more. The goal is to provide children with an enjoyable and safe outdoor experience by offering them opportunities to discover new activities and make new friends. Parents and Guardians will drop off their camper(s) at the mobile facility at Boulevard Park. A typical weekly schedule at camp goes as follows: Monday, Tuesday and Thursday children will be outside at Boulevard Park. Wednesday they will go to Alligator Creek Pool in O’Fallon. Friday there will be a field trip to different places every week. A Friday night Lake Saint Louis tradition is back for 2016. Grab your lawn chairs and blankets and head out to Boulevard Park Amphitheater to enjoy Movies in the Park, a monthly series. Movies begin at dusk, approximately 8:30 p.m. On tap for this summer is: “The Good Dinosaur” (PG), June 10; “Minions” (PG), July 8; and “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” (Rated PG-13), Aug. 5.

Sporty fun in O’Fallon Looking to try something new with that apathetic teenager? Head over to Ft. Zumwalt Park in O’Fallon for a few rounds of disc golf. Challenge yourself at “The Fort,” O’Fallon’s first disc golf course. This scenic, 18-hole course loops through Fort Zumwalt Park, located at 1000 Jessup Dr W. There’s no charge for open play and free score cards will be provided near the first tee. You will be able to tally up the steps on the Fitbit as the course length is 4,290 feet from the beginner markers (red) and 5,957 feet from the intermediate markers (white). The terrain offers a mix of open fairway, rolling hills and a wooded canopy, encouraging players to use a variety of discs. While we all love the Cardinals, getting down to Busch Stadium on a regularly basis puts the capital ‘H’ in hassle and also empties out the pocketbook rather quickly. So on those off nights, hop on over to TR Hughes Blvd and catch the River City Rascals. From the 1999 season to the present, the Rascals have played their home games at CarShield Field. The Rascals play at home 14 times during the month of June and nine times in July. Rascals’ games are all about affordability and easy access to the action. O’Fallon Communications Director Thomas Drabelle suggests that parents take advantage of the ample, and relatively inexpensive, options that are available to them in order to make the dog days of summer zip on by. “Take advantage of all of the free things available,” Drabelle said. “Anything to not already add to the cost of day care or sports camps.” Submitted photos Summer fun activities abound in Western St. Charles County

JUNE 2016 | CROSSROADS

Automobile Alley

2017 ‘Cutesy’ Jeep Renegade

offers plenty of power and versatility The 2016 small “city size-cutesy” SUV Jeep Renegade is a vehicle that builds on the Jeep Wrangler’s powerful and underlining reputation. It features fresh, new artistic styling and a rugged body design that sirens an aggressive yet charming looking footprint. It seats five plus it tends to have bestin-class off road capabilities and fuel efficiency with its posted highway mileage. The forward approach and departure angles are purposely designed to deliver what Jeep owners demand and certainly welcome when off-roading. The magnetizing Renegade offers up engaging versatility, world class engineering, notable maneuverability and head-turning, dreamy styling. All of this coupled with innovative safety and advanced technologies help to frame the description of Renegade. It tends to symbolize the Jeep’s American-branded design and heritage that goes back to its 1941 roots. And for dazzling exclusive panoramic views, two available “My Sky” open-air roof panel systems conveniently stow to provide passengers that welcomed open-air freedom with ease. The exterior certainly is “all Jeep” with its branding DNA, including the traditional front end and rounded headlamps. Under the heading of technology, their Uconnect Access system utilizes embedded cellular technology to allow occupants to get directly in contact with local emergency services with the push of the 9-1-1 overhead-assist button. It also allows the driver to instantly gain access to a roadside assistance operator. The well-thought-out interior should appeal to most that have an active lifestyle with their regular routine. The reconfigurable electronic color gauge cluster is easy to use and operate. Quality materials used alongside bright colors will help allure you behind the wheel. Powering the new Renegade is one of two different engines. Their refined 2.4-liter I-4 engine uses an electro-hydraulic fully variable valve timing system. This

CROSSROADS | JUNE 2016

high-tech engine produces 180 horsepower. It’s paired exclusively to a ninespeed automatic transmission. With this 2.4 engine, this vehicle can safely tow up to 2,000 pounds, making it ideal for pulling personal-size boats, trailers or outdoors camping equipment. Additionally, they make available their 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo four-cylinder engine. It generates 160 horsepower to provide a spirited driving experience overall. It’s offered on Renegade Sport and Latitude 4X2 and 4X4 models. It’s linked with a six-speed manual gearbox. Renegade is available with up to 70 safety and security features, including the segment’s first availability of Forward Collision Warning-Plus and LaneSense Departure Warning-Plus. This adorable Jeep is sold in more than 100 countries worldwide and it’s manufactured at their plant in Melfi, Italy alongside of Fiat-branded vehicles. Renegade comes with a three-year/36,000 mile base warranty and with five-year/100,000 mile powertrain coverage. At road test, the 2016 “tantalizing” Renegade Limited 4X4 with the automatic transmission I drove had an MSRP of $31,120 after a few options and the $995 destination charges added. With the 2.4 - liter engine, it got 21-mpg city/29-mpg highway.

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.

Advertiser Profiles

Weighing the

PROS CoNS of buying a home

Jumping into the ring of homeownership is an exciting milestone. There are many ways owning a home can impact you and your family. How do you know when to rent and when to make the move to purchasing your home? Here to help is our handy guide to the pros and cons to renting and owning a home.

Renting

Cons: 1. No wealth creation. As your payments go directly to your landlord and not the specific property, you are unable to build equity and reap the return on investments from the home’s growing value. 2. No tax benefits. While homeowners can deduct property taxes and mortgage interest payments from their federal income tax, renters can’t claim deductions for housing costs. 3. Dependent on the landlord. For everything ranging from utilities, to paint, to the rent dollars themselves, your landlord makes the majority of the decisions when it comes to renting a home. Depending on your lease, your landlord can increase the rent each year, or month. Pros: 1. Accommodates flexible lifestyles. If

you travel frequently for work, leisure, or medical care, you may not have the time or availability to take care of a home. Renting allows an affordable accommodation without any hassle of renovations or repairs. 2. Freedom in allocating finances. For renters, expenses such as mortgage insurance, real estate taxes, and home maintenance costs, can instead be funneled into savings, stocks or discretionary funds after the monthly rent and utilities are paid. 3. Reduced insurance costs. Apart from renters insurance that covers the interior of a home, costly homeowners insurance and unexpected repairs belongs to the landlord, not the tenant.

Buying

Cons: 1. Unexpected costs. Leaky roofs, backedup pipes, and cracking foundations create thousands of dollars worth of unplanned repairs that stretch your budget to the limit. 2. You’re locked in. Once you sign on the dotted line the house is yours, and so are the payments. 3. Fluctuating home value. Despite your best efforts, your home can become less marketable based on circumstances out of your control. A declining neighborhood,

housing surplus, or unstable market can decrease the value of your home despite well done renovations. Pros: 1. Fixed monthly payments. Homeowners with fixed-rate mortgages can trust that their mortgage payment will stay consistent each month, enabling the creation of a stable monthly budget. 2. Financial gains. From tax credits to equity building, home ownership offers buyers a number of monetary perks and freedoms they wouldn’t receive as tenants. 3. Freedom in expression. A kitchen remodel, a four-season porch addition, and other decorative transformations are all up to a homeowner’s discretion with no strings attached to a lease agreement.

By Jenny Krestel

Jenny Krestel is Asst. VP/ Loan Officer for Peoples Bank & Trust Co. NMLS # 1411385 1310 N. Main Street O’Fallon, MO 63366 (636) 980-1777 | www.pbtc.net

JUNE 2016 | CROSSROADS

Advertiser Profiles

‘Quantity Time’ an old-fashioned idea By Russ Patton, owner of Byerly RV We hear so much about quality time. But it’s the quantity of time we really want. As quality usurps quantity there is so little time to enjoy the freedom that makes America the envy of the world. I knew a family that didn’t have a lot of “quantity” measured by money and things. But every summer when Carter Carburetor closed down for three weeks, the family would pack up everything into their Byerly trailer and head out. Over 20 years, they visited Mount Rushmore, Devils Tower, the Everglades, Mesa Verde, Mackinaw Island, the Calgary Stampede and more. Campgrounds weren’t like they are now, but the Warrens traveled in relative luxury in their 1954, 16 foot, Byerly Mansion. Today we don’t have to rough it. New RVs and Campgrounds make traveling a breeze. But, what an experience! You can’t explain the feeling of the warmth of the sun on the top half of your body while the bottom shivers from the cold of the glacier you are standing on. You can’t understand “improvise” until you build a s’more campfire from nothing more than nitrogen rich dried up cow pies! You can’t explain the relativity of comfort un-

Photo courtesy Byerly RV

til you’ve bathed in a Colorado stream with icicles hanging from the overhanging vegetation. You can’t really “feel” America until you’ve walked the walk, shared the vistas and hit the road. You can see the old original Byerly trailer on display at our lot in Eureka. Check us out at www.byerlyrv.com and visit us on Facebook. Byerly, the Center of the RV World.

Business

Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce Western St. Charles County Chamber selects four scholarship recipients The Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce selected four local students to receive scholarships this year. The four stu-

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dents selected were: William Rackers from Holt High School, Mikaylin Padilla from Holt High School, Rachel Neff from Holt

High School, and Emilee Long from Timberland High School. “The Western St. Charles County Chamber’s 690 members are very supportive of helping our local students succeed in their career goals,” said Tony Mathews, President/ CEO of the Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce. “Our chamber is very proud to award our scholarships to four deserving students.” The chamber awards four $750 scholarships each May. For information please call the chamber office at 636-327-6914 or visit their website http://westernstcharlescountychamber.com.

Business Serving Wentzville, Lake St. Louis, and Dardenne Prairie

Chamber Back to School Family Fair on July 30 at Morning Star Church

The Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce will be hosting their Fourth Annual Back to School Family Fair on July 30 from 8 a.m. – noon at Morning Star Church. Morning Star is located at 1600 Feise Road in Dardenne Prairie. Free school supplies will be given out to children at the event. Each booth will feature a fun activity for children to participate in. You will have the opportunity to learn about great businesses in the area and discover how those businesses can serve your needs. The following will be featured at the event: free school supplies, meet characters, 1,500 free drawstring backpacks for kids, free breakfast pastries and hot dogs, Wentzville Fire Protection District fire trucks, St. Charles County Ambulance district ambulances, free bike helmets, activities for children - face painting and more, giveaways and prizes. If you are a local business and would like a booth at the fair please contact the chamber at 636-327-6914 or visit them online at http://westernstcharlescountychamber.com. Booths start at only $85. The fair had over 4,000 people attend last year, so it is a great way to market your business or organization. This year’s focus is on our local families. “We are very excited to see our local residents receive free school supplies, gather information from local business, and have a great time!” said Tony Mathews, President/CEO of the chamber. “The Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce strives to help our community and help our local businesses connect with consumers.” This will be a fun-filled day for families to gather information, coupons and giveaways from local businesses and groups as they prepare to return to school. For more information please call the chamber office at 636-327-6914 or visit http://westernstcharlescountychamber.com.

Wentzville EDC Business Spotlight The Drift Float Spa located in Downtown Wentzville is owned by Scott and Stephanie Ramirez. The business recently opened in available space at 120 West Pearce Blvd. The space is a safe, comfortable and peaceful place to relax and unwind. Drift Float Spa offers float therapy, as well as, massage therapy. The “sensory deprivation tank” provides total relaxation. The owners like the small town feel of the downtown area. They are encouraged by the plan to continue improvements in the area. Come visit for a truly unique float experience.

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 http://westernstcharlescountychamber.com. Located at 207 South Linn Avenue in Wentzville.

JUNE 2016 | CROSSROADS

Entertainment

‘Independence Day’ resurges (with a sequel) after twenty years “We’ve always believed we weren’t alone. On July 4th, we’ll wish we were.” That was the tagline back in 1996. Two decades later…

“We had twenty years to prepare. So did they.” It’s hard to believe the opening of “Independence Day” was nearly twenty years ago coming this July 3. I remember the day I first saw it in a packed theater as it opened a day early (July 2). This was before stadium seating was even a thing, by the way, as I sat nearly close to the front with – what felt like – tall people sitting around me (I was fourteen at the time) blocking some parts of my view of the big screen. None of those flaws mattered. The movie-going experience of this film (along with “Twister” earlier that same summer of ‘96) certified my love for the movies for life at this point. I’ve never felt the experience of such excitement in a theater in my life at that time. While discussing the wild audience reactions to the film with my parents afterwards, they mentioned that this was what their experience was like when “Star Wars” was first released. I would never realize in time how difficult and rare it is for a science fiction – or disaster – flick to be this good. Time did tell us exactly that as the years went by as other disaster movies came and went years after. So what amazing production crew had the connections to pull off a film of this size and magnitude back in the mid 90’s? It wasn’t Spielberg and company (who executive pro-

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duced “Twister” that year) and it wasn’t even George Lucas and the motion picture visual effects company he founded, Industrial Light & Magic (also involved in “Twister”). The director was Roland Emmerich – who was only known for his films “Stargate” and “Universal Soldier” and he did not rely on one visual effects company, but multiple artists of his choosing. According to Visual Effects Headquarters (at www.vfxhq.com), the movie “contains more than 500 effects shots, combining computer generated imagery, digital compositing, digital matte paintings and traditional miniature model effects (the most ever used in cinematic history of its time), among other techniques. The sheer amount of effects shots makes it the biggest effects film of the 1990’s.” Heck, this approach made this massive production cost well under a hundred million dollars (at $75 million). Even “Twister” cost more to make overall at $92 million. “Independence Day” took home the Academy Award for Best Visual Effects defeating Lucas’ ILM team of both “DragonHeart” and “Twister.” On June 24 “Independence Day: Resurgence” – the long awaited sequel to the nearly twenty-year-old-phenomenon – is finally here and the pressure is really on to see if this film can even match the greatness and impact of the original. Who will be back for the sequel alongside director Roland Emmerich? The returning cast members are: Jeff Goldblum (as David Levinson), Judd Hirsch (as Julius Levinson), Bill Pullman (as President Whitmore), Vivica A. Fox (as Jasmine) and surprisingly Brent

Spiner (as Dr. Brakish Okun). Some key players who are not returning are Will Smith (in his ultimate career-making role as Captain Steven Hiller), film composer David Arnold (replaced by Emmerich’s longterm collaborator Harold Kloser - and Thomas Wanker) and Mae Whitman (shockingly wasn’t asked to reclaim her role as Patricia Whitmore as “It Follows” Maika Monroe was cast instead). As a fan of Whitman’s work I suspect she will find more big breaks on her own instead and she already has the credits to prove it (see her performances in “The DUFF” and the former TV series, “Parenthood” for starters). This could be a huge breakout performance for Monroe though as other newcomers in big roles joins her. There is Liam Hemsworth (as Jake Morrison) and Jessie Usher (taking over the role as Dylan Hiller – Jasmine’s son), Sela Ward (as President Lanford), Joey King (as Sam), William Fichner (as General Adams), Charlotte Gainsbourg (as Dr. Catherine Marceaux), among many others. Despite some doubts of my own, I really do hope “Resurgence” lives up to the original film. I would be just fine if that happens. Either way, it shall be seen. Until then, “checkmate.” “Independence Day: Resurgence” photos courtesy Twentieth Century Fox

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.

For the Love of Food

Simply Sweet Summer Entertaining

ight, refreshing flavors are the perfect solution for a summer meal. As temperatures heat up, take your summer entertaining to the next level with a secret ingredient that is as pretty as it is tasty. Alone or in a recipe, grapes from California are a deliciously healthy way to bring refreshing flavor to the summertime table. Delightful as a cool snack, grapes are also a great choice for your entertaining menu because they pair well with so many other ingredients. You may be surprised by all of the combinations of flavors and textures you can achieve, from main dishes to sides and even desserts. Impress your guests with this mouthwatering lineup featuring grapes that includes a grilled flank steak, an extra fresh classic salad and an unexpectedly sweet but savory sorbet. Find more refreshing recipes for summer entertaining at GrapesfromCalifornia.com.

Easy Ideas for a Summer Party • Create cozy seating arrangements complete with cushions and ample shade so guests can laugh and chat in comfort. • Be sure to create pops of color with your tableware and food. Available in three vibrant hues – red, green and black – grapes make a beautiful centerpiece and colorful addition to any menu. • When you need a simple appetizer, grapes are as easy as it gets. Ripe and ready when you bring them home, give them a rinse, place them in a pretty bowl and you’ve got an edible centerpiece in seconds. • Keep the festive mood strong by adding some ambient light. Whimsical paper lanterns or strings of white or colored lights lend a playful touch to parties after dark.

Grape and Spinach Salad with Raspberry Balsamic Dressing Servings: 8

Ingredients: 8 cups fresh baby spinach, washed 4 1/2 cups California grapes 1 1/4 cups mandarin orange segments (drained, if using canned) 1/3 cup thinly sliced red onion 3/4 cup bottled light balsamic vinegar and oil dressing 1/4 cup orange juice 3 tablespoons raspberry jam 3/4 cup crunchy chow mein noodles Directions: Place spinach in large salad bowl. Top with grapes, oranges and onion. Whisk together dressing, orange juice and jam.

Pour over salad and toss until greens are coated with dressing. Top with crunchy noodles. Serving suggestion: Add noodles just before serving to maintain crunchy texture.

Savory Black Grape Sorbet Servings: 4

Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds (4 cups) black California seedless grapes, washed and stemmed 1/4 cup sugar 2 tablespoons vodka 2 tablespoons lemon juice 8 large basil leaves pinch of salt Directions: In food processor or blender, puree grapes and sugar until smooth. Pour into small saucepan and bring to boil over high heat. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook until mixture has reduced by about one-third, about 15 minutes. Stir in vodka, lemon juice, basil and salt then let cool to room temperature.

Pour mixture into shallow pan and freeze until hard, 3-4 hours. Transfer to food processor or blender and process until smooth and creamy, and lightened in color. Serve immediately.

Grape Basil Martini Servings: 1

Ingredients:

3 basil leaves, torn, plus additional for garnish 5 green grapes, halved, plus addi-

tional for garnish 2 ounces gin 1/4 oz Essencia 1 oz lemon juice 1 oz simple syrup ice

Directions: In cocktail shaker, muddle basil and grapes with gin. Add Essencia, lemon juice and simple syrup, and shake gently. Strain into

rocks glass filled with ice. Garnish with basil leaf and float two grapes on top. Serve.

JUNE 2016 | CROSSROADS

Photo Op

Wentzville’s Walk to Stop Heroin Our own Laurie Simon joined the crowd and walked in Wentzville’s Walk to Stop Heroin on the morning of May 14 in Wentzville. The goal of this walk was to raise awareness and connect the community with the available resources in hopes that someone will not try heroin – not even once. Photos By Laurie Simon

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Community Calendar

June: 3 – Food Truck Frenzy in Sports Park Purchase gourmet fare from food trucks and listen to modern rock and current hits by the Comin’ Up Empty band from 5 - 8 p.m. at Sports Park in O’Fallon at 3589 Highway K. Free admission and parking. For a list of food trucks, visit www.ofallon. mo.us/food-truck-frenzy. For weather updates call 636-3795614. For more information visit www.ofallon.mo.us/foodtruck-frenzy.

5 – Family Fishing Day Bring your bait and fishing tackle to Lake Whetsel for a morning of catch-and-release fishing, activities and games at Family Fishing Day from 8 a.m. – noon at Fort Zumwalt Park at 1000 Jessup Drive in O’Fallon. Cost is free, but please register in advance; call staff at 636-474-2732 to register or visit www.ofallon.mo.us/ parks&rec/fort-zumwalt-park.

6 – D-Day 7 – Outdoor concert O’Fallon Jammin’ concert with Butch Wax & the Hollywoods and featuring Theo Peoples takes place from 6:30 – 9 p.m. at Civic Park at 308 Civic Park Drive in O’Fallon. Listen to oldies, Motown, R& B and rock ‘n roll. Bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating around the bandstand and purchase delicious food from food trucks and vendors. An ADA-accessible playground, restrooms and walking path are located nearby. Check the Jammin’ website for the complete list of bands and your favorite food trucks. For weather updates call 636-379-5614. For more information visit www.ofallon.mo.us/jammin.

10-11 – Theater production The O’FallonTheatreWorks’ Youth Theatre presents “The Crisis of Captain Cross” on June 10 at 7 p.m. and on June 11 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. at O’Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall) at 100 North Main St. in O’Fallon. Tickets reserved in advance are $10 for general admission, $8 for seniors (age 55-and-up) and $8 for students six – 17. Tickets at the box office cost an additional $2 each; the box office opens an hour before each show. Concessions also will be available for purchase. For tickets call the Renaud Spirit Center at 636-474-2732 or visit www.ofallon.mo.us/ parks&rec/ofallontheatreworks.

16-18 – Theater production O’FallonTheatreWorks presents “The Lady Pirates of Captain Bree” on June 16-17 at 7 p.m.; June 18 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. at O’Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall) at 100 North Main St. in O’Fallon. Tickets reserved in advance are $10 for general admission, $8 for seniors (age 55-and-up) and $8 for students six – 17. Tickets at the box office cost an additional $2 each; the box office opens an hour before each show. Concessions also will be available for purchase. For tickets and information call the Renaud Spirit Center, 636-474-2732 or visit www.ofallon. mo.us/parks&rec/ofallontheatreworks.

18 – Free electronics and appliance recycling event Free electronics and appliance recycling event takes place from 8 a.m. – noon at the west parking lot at T.R. Hughes Ballpark at 900 T.R. Hughes Boulevard in O’Fallon. Except for certain TV sets, the drop-off is free and open to all including schools, churches and businesses. Bring almost any item that has an electrical cord or takes a battery. For details visit www.ofallon. mo.us/electronics-recycling.

19 – Father’s Day 20 – First Day of Summer 20-24 – Vacation bible school Cave Quest Vacation Bible School takes place at Wentzville Christian Church from 6 - 8:45 p.m. each night. VBS is free and open to the public for three year olds through fifth graders. For more information, call the church office at 636-327-6622 and register at wentzvillecc.org/VBS. The church is located at 1507 Highway Z in Wentzville.

21 – Outdoor concert O’Fallon Jammin’ concert with Big Rain takes place from 6:30 – 9 p.m. at Civic Park at 308 Civic Park Drive in O’Fallon. Big Rain will play current hits.

28 – Outdoor concert O’Fallon Jammin’ concert with the O’Fallon Community Concert Band and the O’Fallon Jazz Band takes place from 6:30 – 9 p.m. at Civic Park at 308 Civic Park Drive in O’Fallon. Listen to the sound of music from the movies, pops, jazz and big band, live.

14 – Flag Day 14 – Outdoor concert O’Fallon Jammin’ concert with Petty Cash Junction takes place from 6:30 – 9 p.m. at Civic Park at 308 Civic Park Drive in O’Fallon. Listen to the music of Tom Petty and Johnny Cash performed by this outstanding cover band.

JUNE 2016 | CROSSROADS