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JULY Departments

Around Town Local news and events

Business Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce Entertainment Films That Graced the July Fourth Weekend in Theaters Food Road Trip Snacks!

Published monthly with direct mail circulation to Wentzville and Lake Saint Louis, plus newsstands in Troy.

Always an Adventure Summer Solstice

Moore on Life A Penny Saved Makes No Cents

Photo Op Food Trucks in Frontier Park Community Calendar July

19 Publisher Editor Production Manager Contributors

Bob Huneke Andrew Tessmer Rebecca Brockmann Avalanche, Robin Daniels, Pat Fitzpatrick, Brian Guerrero, Stephanie Lynch, Tony Mathews, Cindy Moore, Dave Welborn Photographer Ray Rockwell Staff Writer Shawn Clubb

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features

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Crossroads is a trademark of Huneke Publications, Inc. Any published use of Crossroads implying affiliation is strictly prohibited.

Moments of Joy Contributing Versus By Tony Mathews

Community News

No part of the publication may be reproduced in any form without the expressed written consent of the publisher.

Fun for ALL! Brothers ‘til the End By Dave Welborn

contents

VOL 11 | NO 7

2014

By Robin Daniels

Get your Kicks on Route 66 Road tripping across Missouri By Stephanie Lynch On the cover: Gary’s Gay Parita, Halltown. Photo courtesy Missouri Division of Tourism

JULY 2014 CROSSROADS

AROUND TOWN Teen Driver Safety Program Coming to St. Charles The Tire Rack Street Survival teen driver safety school is coming July 12 and 13 to the Family Arena in St. Charles. Tire Rack Street Survival is a nonprofit national driver education program that teaches teens the skills they need to stay alive behind the wheel. Unlike traditional driver’s education programs based on classroom theory and simple maneuvers, the Tire Rack Street Survival program works to improve driver competence through hands-on experiences in real-world driving situations. Students will receive a short classroom session and then they will learn hands-on how to manage everyday driving hazards, obstacles and challenges in a controlled environment on an advanced driving course. Students learn emergency braking and skid control, how to control proper braking, and how to avoid accidents. In select schools, in addition to spending time in the driver’s seat of a parked 18-wheeler to fully comprehend its massive blind spots, teenagers witness the violent detonation of an air bag, which reinforces proper hand placement on the steering wheel. Students are taught in their own cars, so the skills they learn can be directly translated to their daily driving experiences. Tire Rack Street Survival works to help teenagers understand how to control a vehicle, rather than just operate one. The program is entering its twelfth year, having trained 12,000 new drivers. A total of 101 schools were completed last year and the goal for 2014 is more than 110 nationally. Two schools will be taught in St. Charles. They will be from 7:30 am – 4:30 pm July 12 and 13 at the Family Arena, 2002 Arena Parkway, St Charles. Tire Rack Street Survival is open to licensed and permitted drivers ages 15 – 21. Forms, schedules and more information can be found at www.streetsurvival.org. The cost is $75 per student and some insurance companies offer premium discounts to graduates. To view a video of the program, visit streetsurvival.org. To view pictures from past schools, visit streetsurvival.org/about-streetsurvival/photo-gallery.

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CROSSROADS JULY 2014

Community Council Teams with Operation Food Search for Saturday Jubilee

Vicki Smith, director of Sunshine Kids Day Out and Preschool, volunteers to collect non-perishable goods during the annual Saturday Jubilee Food Drive. Volunteers staff stores to collect food that will be distributed by Operation Food Search. Teams of 12 work two hour shifts in teams of four. Photo courtesy Operation Food Search

Operation Food Search and the Community Council of St. Charles County are teaming up to sponsor the sixth annual Saturday Jubilee Food Drive on July 26. The two groups have planned one day with the purpose of ending hunger. “More of our neighbors are experiencing something many never thought possible in our plentiful area — hunger,” according to Community Council. “People are coming to food pantries for the first time, never imagining that they would need to ask for help. Local pantries are struggling to keep up with the increased demand. Too many of those who receive food are children.” People are asked to help out by becoming a store team captain or conducting a food drive. Store team captains are asked to organize a group of volunteers to staff a store on July 26. They would coordinate the volunteers into two-hour shifts with four volunteers per shift for a total of 12 volunteers. All necessary materials will be provided. A short training meeting will be conducted for the store captains in the week before the event. This volunteer opportunity is geared toward organizations such as church groups, scouting groups, service clubs or businesses. The teams will greet shoppers at local grocery stores and collect food items that go directly to local food pantries. Those who conduct a food drive would collect non-perishable food at their place of work or church, in their neighborhood, or as a family project during July. They would then deliver the food on July 26 to a central collection point located at Mid Rivers Mall in St. Peters. Anyone who would like to help should contact Sherry Saunders at ssaunders@communitycouncilstc.org or 636.978.2277, ext. 402. www.pcrc-stl.com

AROUND TOWN Lake Saint Louis Plans Annual Triathlon The Lake Saint Louis Parks and Recreation Department will present the oldest organized Triathlon event in the St. Louis metropolitan area on Aug. 23 at the Lake Saint Louis Community Association, 100 Cognac Court. The Lake Saint Louis Triathlon, which has 32 years of racing history, has proven to be a popular triathlon event in the area. It has filled the last ten years with participants who traveled from all over the country. The race has long course distances of 0.93 miles of swimming, 24 miles of biking and 6.2 miles of running. It has short course distances of 0.25 miles of swimming, 12.3 miles of biking and 2.5 miles of running.

Triathlon fees are $100 for USAT members and $112 for non-members. A $20 resident discount will apply. The event is USA Triathlon sanctioned and competition rules will apply. All non-USA Triathlon members must obtain one-day USAT insurance. The fee is $12 for adult and $10 for those ages 17 and younger as of Dec. 31, 2014. All athletes must present a photo ID at registration, and everyone must pick up their own packet. To register for the 2014 Lake Saint Louis Triathlon or for more information on the event, including swim practice, visit www.lakesaintlouis.com and go to the triathlon page for the parks department.

St. Charles County Works to Control Mosquito Population The St. Charles County Department of Community Health and the Environment wants area residents to know about its vector control program, which is aimed at decreasing the number of mosquitoes in an effort to prevent outbreaks of diseases that can be transmitted by them. Through the program, the Division of Environmental Health and Protection works with area residents and municipalities. The division sends crews out to spray when requested to by residents who report a mosquito problem in their neighborhood. “When needed, staff injects larvicide in pools of standing water where mosquitoes hatch to control the population before it develops, and spray trucks disperse small amounts of

insecticide in targeted areas to reduce the number of adult insects,” according to information from the Health Department. The division asks anyone wanting to report nuisance mosquitoes in their area to take one of two steps. Anyone who lives in an unincorporated part of the county or in Augusta, Cottleville, Dardenne Prairie, Flint Hill, Lake Saint Louis, Portage des Sioux, Weldon Spring Heights or Wentzville should visit health.sccmo.org and fill out a form or call 636.949.1800. Anyone who lives within the limits of O’Fallon, St. Charles or St. Peters should contact their local city hall. To prevent mosquito bites, the division advises residents to use an insect repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, IR3535 or oil of lem-

on eucalyptus. It also notes that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants when outdoors. The division recommends that residents take steps to eliminate potential breeding grounds for mosquitoes. These include filling or draining areas where water may stand for more than a week; emptying watering cans, wading pools and other containers after use; sealing cesspools and screening vents; cleaning clogged roof gutters and draining flat roofs; covering rain barrels with netting; stocking garden ponds with small fish that will disrupt the water’s surface; and tilting wheelbarrows and machines with containers to prevent them from retaining water.

www.pbtc.net

JULY 2014 CROSSROADS

AROUND TOWN Volunteer Opportunities Abound at Pet Adoption Center The St. Charles County Pet Adoption Center has placed more than 30,000 animals in homes since opening in 1999, and the work it does cannot be accomplished without the help of volunteers. Volunteers within the Division of Humane Services greet guests and help them find a lost pet or adopt a new one. They exercise the dogs and train them to reinforce positive behavior. They play with cats to keep them active and ensure that they feel comfortable when handled. They launder materials for the animals, bathe and groom the dogs, and assist staff with cleaning kennels and feeding the animals.

Volunteers with more experience working in a shelter can serve as adoption counselors to help people select the right pet. Volunteers who are vet tech students or who have veterinary experience can handle medical care for the animals. Some volunteers even work in public education, talking to the community about what is required for responsible pet ownership and pet safety. Anyone who is 18 years old or older and who wants to join the volunteer team is asked to call 636-949-PETS or go online to health. sccmo.org/ and apply.

Teen Becomes National Chairman for FEMA Youth Preparedness Council Emily Rosenblum, a senior at Wentzville Holt High School, was recently appointed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency as National Chairman of the Youth Preparedness Council in Washington, D.C. Last June, she was one of five youths chosen to serve on the 15-person council as the Region VII representative. The region is comprised of Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska and Iowa. The 17-year-old is a straight-A student at Holt and an officer in National Honor Society. She is the daughter of Karen and Mark Rosenblum of Wentzville. She will travel in July to Washington, D.C., to participate in a community preparedness summit with leaders of national agencies and organizations. Youth Preparedness Council members are asked to voice their opinions, experiences, ideas and solutions to help support response to disasters and recovery from them. They also are tasked with bringing new ideas and information back to their communities. During her first year, one of the goals Rosenblum accomplished was bringing TEEN CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) training to the Wentzville School District. In March, Holt graduated

CROSSROADS JULY 2014

Emily Rosenblum, Wentzville Holt High School student, and Regina Moran, FEMA National Youth Director, Individual and Community Preparedness Division, pose after Rosenblum was appointed by FEMA as National Chairman of the Youth Preparedness Council in Washington, D.C.

the first class of TEEN CERT students within a Missouri school district. Rosenblum plans to organize other classes in the district at the middle and high schools. In addition, the Orchard Farm, Fort Zumwalt and St. Charles City school districts have expressed interest in having the TEEN CERT program taught in their schools. Early in her term, peers chose Rosenblum to serve as chair over the Constitution and Bylaws Committee, Preparedness Ambassador Program and FEMA External Public Affairs Committees. “We are a very close group and we get along great with each other,” Rosenblum said. “This not only gave me the opportunity to share ideas, but it was also a chance to talk with my council friends on a regular basis.” Rosenblum asked to use the Mid America TEEN CERT program as her vehicle to host classes. The program director is her father and he put the program’s resources at her disposal. Youth Preparedness Council members visit Washington, D.C. during the summer and stay in contact with FEMA officials throughout the year via conference calls. Members are eligible to serve actively on the council for two years. After that, they become alumni members and offer their guidance and experience. For information on youth preparedness or TEEN CERT training, contact Rosenblum through Facebook, or email YPCChairman@ gmail.com. Additional information about the Youth Preparedness Council can be found at www.ready.gov/youth-preparedness-council and www.ready.gov/kids.

Fun for ALL!

Brothers ‘til the End By Dave Welborn, Exec. Director, KEEN St. Louis

“All for one and one for all My brother and my friend What fun we have The time we share Brothers ’til the end.” - Author Unknown

they attempt. “We expect the same out of Braden as we do of everyone else,” his mother said. There is an old proverb that says, “Help your brother’s boat across, and your own will reach the shore.”

Dave Welborn is the ExecuLike many, I share a special bound with my brothers. tive Director of KEEN St. Louis, My brothers were my first male friends, my confidants a local nonprofit which proand my protectors. They teased me to make me toughvides free recreational proer (or so they claimed), wrestled me to make me stron- Photo courtesy The Cerebral Palsy Swagger on Facebook grams for kids with physical ger and stole my desserts to keep me fit (didn’t work). Through it all, they have been at my side to pick up and keep me and mental disabilities age 5-17. For more information visit www. keenstlouis.org moving on the right track. There is nothing like brotherly love. Marc Brown, a noted author of children’s books once said, “Sometimes being a brother is even better than being a superhero.” Sometimes it is the same thing. Hunter Gandee, a 14-year-old from Michigan, is as close to a superhero-brother as you will find, at least in his little brother’s eyes. In June, the teenager strapped his 7-year-old brother, Braden on his back and made a 40-mile trek to help raise awareness for cerebral palsy. Cerebral palsy keeps Braden from doing things many of us take for granted, including walking. Braden uses mobility devices like a walker to assist him in getting around. Hunter hopes that the awareness will compel researchers to develop technology to aid in mobility. “We’re trying to get people to want to know more about cerebral palsy,” Hunter said. “They don’t understand the work he has to go through, for all the simple things in life that you and I just kind of do.” “I just want them to know I’m just like everybody else,” Braden said. “I just have difficulty walking.” Hunter, 155-pounds, is a wrestler on his high school team. Braden never misses a match and often assists in his training by wresting on the gym floor after practice. The older brother often lets his sibling win. “Not always,” he said. Spoken like a true brother “I can’t even describe to you how special Braden is to me. I can’t put it into words,” the teen told reporters after the walk. “He’s awesome. He’s always there for me. I really just wanted to give back to him in some way.” According to reports, both boys hope one day to study biomedical engineering so they can design mobility equipment. Their mom, www.byerlyrv.com Danielle Gandee, said she’s confident they’ll succeed in whatever JULY 2014 CROSSROADS

BUSINESS Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce

Serving Wentzville, Lake St. Louis, and Dardenne Prairie Chamber Hosts Ribbon Cuttings for Kimberly’s Bake Shop and Servant’s Heart

Chamber Back to School Family Fair at Morning Star Church

The Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce hosted ribbon cutting ceremonies for Kimberly’s Bake Shop and Servant’s Heart. Kimberly’s Bake Shop opened at 2 West Pearce Blvd., Wentzville, MO 63385. Visit them for delicious cakes, cookies, cupcakes, and more. You can reach them at 636.327.7727 or online at www.kimberlysbakeshop.com.

Photo courtesy Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce

Servant’s Heart is an outreach ministry of Faith Christian Family Church. They collect food, clothing, personal care items, and more to help local people in need. Servant’s Heart will have a new drop off location in Wentzville at Bristol Manor. Bristol Manor is located at 840 West Northview in Wentzville, across from Holt High School. Please drop by some items and help others in your community. For more information, contact Jan Miller at 636.359.0228 or email servantsheartstl@gmail.com.

The Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce will be hosting their second annual Back to School Family Fair on Saturday, August 2 from 8 am - 1 pm at Morning Star Church, 1600 Feise Rd., 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. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about great businesses in western St. Charles and discover how those businesses can serve your family’s needs. The Chamber is currently seeking booth participants for the fair. Your business can have a booth for only $50. This includes a table, table covering, and signage. A portion of this fee goes to supply the free school supplies for kids. You can sign-up for a booth or get more information by calling the chamber office at 636-327-6914 or visiting www.westernstcharlescountychamber.com. This year’s focus is on our local families. “We are very excited to see our local residents come gather information from local business, receive free school supplies, and have a great time!” said Tony Mathews, president/CEO of the Chamber. “Last year 2,000 people came through our doors and we hope for even more this year!” 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 www.westernstcharlescountychamber.com. By tony mathews

Tony Mathews is the President and CEO of the Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce

Photo courtesy Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce

8 CROSSROADS JULY 2014

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 210 South Linn Avenue in Wentzville.

MOMENTS OF JOY Contributing Verses

By Tony Mathews

Living Word 1/12

www.lwcs.us

I was watching television the other day and a commercial for Apple came on. In the commercial they were using portions of the Walt Whitman poem O Me! O Life! The quote that struck me was “That you are here – that life exists, and identity; That the powerful play goes on, and you will contribute a verse.” I believe we tend to think of our “verses” as having to be big moments or milestones in our lives. I think that our “verses” need to be the many little things that we do throughout our day. Do you realize the difference you can make through very small contributions that you might otherwise have overlooked? When was the last time you smiled at, or asked, the person checking you at the store out how their day was going? Did you read your kids’ a book today while making some amusing voices? Have you picked up a few extra groceries and dropped them off a food pantry? I have done all three of these recently and realized that our “verses” are comprised of the special everyday moments that we can create. Those moments are what people will remember about you and they will make your identity. I encourage you to take your everyday experiences and make an impact on those around you. You can do this by smiling at the person you’re holding the door for, having lunch with a friend you have not seen in while, or getting breakfast for the person behind you in the drive-thru.

When I look back on my day I hope that the “verses” that I have contributed helped someone in a positive way. Make powerful impacts by being a positive energy to those around you.

www.gibsonprinting.com

www.viperrocks.com

www.takeatrip.net JULY 2014 CROSSROADS

ENTERTAINMENT Films That Graced the July Fourth Weekend in Theaters I’m surprised to notice a shortage of major studio bids for a major motion picture opening for the Fourth of July weekend. Normally, some of the most anticipated popcorn flicks would be killing for that ultimate summer spot, capturing what was the summer movie peak. Hollywood just doesn’t have that craze this year. Could it be due to The Lone Ranger’s disappointing turn-out last year – with the fear of following those footsteps? That would be silly because many, like Quentin Tarantino, still liked the film. So, before I mention some of this year’s July Fourth hopefuls, let’s look back at some of the classic July Fourth hits that left a lasting impression. Independence Day (July 2 - 3, 1996)

Independence Day photo courtesy of 20th Century Fox

The obvious title may have suggested there’s no better time of year to release a film like this. It’s an iconic summer hit of the 90s. Since seeing Independence Day I’ve not again experienced the exciting reactions that this film caused the audience. Even when I saw it again months later (while still playing in theaters) the positive reactions were consistently the same. It’s the first film I’ve ever known to open a day earlier - on a Thursday (July 2nd) - than its original release date. It turned out

that move perfectly matched the film’s setting - by the exact day - creating the perfect sense of irony as well as the perfect summer blockbuster of its time. Men In Black (July 2, 1997)

Back To The Future photo courtesy of Universal Pictures

Men In Black photo courtesy of Columbia Pictures

Columbia Pictures followed the footsteps of 20th Century Fox’s Independence Day by opening another blockbuster hopeful that starred Will Smith as one of the leads, on the same weekend the following year... and it worked. This oddball, comedic take on the secret alien world within in our world was quite trippy, hilarious and an unexpected mega-hit; largely thanks to the pairing of Smith opposite Tommy Lee Jones. While Independence Day became one of the greats for sci-fi disasters, Men In Black became one of the greats for the sci-fi satire. Spider-Man 2 (June 30th, 2004)

Spider-Man 2 photo courtesy of Columbia Pictures

Originally slated for a Friday opening (July 2), the studio decided to get a jump-start for the holiday weekend by releasing the film two days early - on a Wednesday - hence the last day of June. It was a wise move, but it probably wouldn’t have mattered much. Spider-Man 2 became the most critically acclaimed super-hero film based on the comics, by far - years before The Dark Knight and The Avengers came out and joined up with it. It became a monster-hit anyway; plus it’s the only Marvel movie that has taken home an Oscar. 10

CROSSROADS JULY 2014

Back To The Future (July 3, 1985)

It’s a comedy that involved time-travel by a machine in the form of a car. Also, the car happens to be a DeLorean? Movies with the word ‘future’ in the title were deemed bad luck at its time. Secretly, the bulk of the jokes ingeniously came from the results of two separate generations colliding. One, being a high school kid from 1985, Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox), and two, his parents whom he unintentionally meets back when they were in high school in 1955. That was the glory that made this film work as a comedy. A funny example is a character’s disbelief that an actor like Ronald Reagan would become the American President. However, it was the urgency to make sure Marty got his parents to like each other in time (to save his own existence first) before his one chance to return to 1985 was no longer available, that made the film incredibly exciting as an adventure thriller. This multi-genre masterpiece remains a phenomenon to this day, 29 years after its release. Beware of the surging 2015 references from Back To The Future Part II next year! It never hurts to have an open mind before seeing a film with little knowledge of it. This year’s lower-profiled films - brave enough to open this holiday weekend - are as follows: Earth To Echo, Tammy, Deliver Us From Evil and Begin Again among others. As always, release dates are subject to change and enjoy your Independence Day weekend at the movies. 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.

Recipe: Road Trip Snacks! When I think road trip, I think of crunchy snacks, both sweet and salty. You want them easy to munch on, but not too messy in the car (plus, you won’t need a cooler for these morsels- or have to worry about the car getting too hot when you stop), and they have to be satisfying enough to last until that next pit stop. Fix up these easy treats and take them along on your next summer journey.

Carol Hurst is the owner of Olde Town Spice Shoppe on South Main Street, St. Charles. She was kind enough to share a couple of her favorite road trip recipes with us. Discover Route 66 with off with these sweet and salty snacks! For more recipes visit, www.oldtownspices.com.

Olde Town Spice Shoppe One Bowl, 30 Minute, Delicious, Soft Pretzels

Take Me Out to the Ballgame Caramel Popcorn

Ingredients: 1 and 1/2 cups warm water 1 packet active yeast 1 teaspoon salt 1 Tablespoon granulated sugar 1 large egg for the topper egg wash

4 - 4.25 cups all-purpose flour & more for the counter surface to knead (you can mix whole wheat flour and all-purpose flour) Pretzel salt (Olde Town Spice Shoppe) for sprinkling on top

Ingredients: 4 qts of popped popcorn (you can use plain microwave popcorn= 1.3 bags) 1 cup of shelled peanuts (preferably redskins, with the red outer skin on them) ½ stick of butter (can be salted or unsalted), melted 1 cup of lightly packed light brown sugar ½ cup of light corn syrup 2 tbl molasses ¼ tsp salt (I use fine ground sea salt) baking spray

Directions: Preheat oven to 250 degrees and spray two baking sheets with baking spray (or line with parchment). Set aside. Directions: Preheat oven to 425F degrees. Line baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone baking mat. Set aside. Dissolve yeast in warm water. Stir until mixed, about 1 minute. Add salt and sugar; stir until combined. Slowly add flour, 1 cup at a time. Mix with a spoon until dough is thick. Continue to add more flour until dough is no longer sticky. Poke the dough with your finger - if it bounces back, it is ready to knead. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes and shape into a ball. Cut ball of dough into 1/3 cup sections (about 10 pieces). This measurement does not have to be exact - use as much or little dough for each pretzel as you wish the size of the pretzel is completely up to you. Roll the dough into a rope with an even diameter. My ropes were twenty inches long. This measurement will depend how large you want the pretzels. Once

you have your long rope, take the ends and draw them together so the dough forms a circle. Twist the ends, then bring them towards yourself and press them down into a pretzel shape. See above for link to visual instructions. In a small bowl, beat the egg and paint the egg wash on top of each pretzel and try to cover the complete pretzel. Place on baking sheet and sprinkle with pretzel salt.

Mix the popped corn and peanuts in a large bowl. Take all of the remaining ingredients and place them in a saucepan on medium heat. Heat/stir for approximately 3-5 minutes, until it’s boiling and frothy, and a cooking thermometer (I use a digital stick thermometer) comes to 250 degrees. Pour a thin stream of the caramel syrup over the bowl of popcorn and nuts while stirring the popcorn with a silicon spatula or

buttered spoon until all incorporated. Be careful, it will be hot and sticky. Pour the covered popcorn/peanuts on to two baking sheets and bake for 2025 minutes, turning with the spatula several times while baking- this ensures that the caramel melts in to the popcorn crevices. Remove the pans from the oven and let cool. Serve. While I find it doubtful that you will have any left over, if you do, you will want to store it in an airtight container.

Bake for 10 minutes at 425F degrees. The pretzels will increase in size (about double) while baking. Turn the oven to broil for the last 3-5 minutes to brown the tops. Watch closely to avoid burning. Allow to cool and enjoy. Serve warm or at room temperature. Pretzels may be stored in an airtight container or zipped top bag for up to four days (will lose softness). Pretzels also freeze well. *Try other toppers such as cinnamon/ sugar, and other popcorn toppers such as sour cream and onion.

JULY 2014 CROSSROADS

ALWAYS AN ADVENTURE Summer Solstice The bush pilot kept nervously checking the instruments and controls as he circled the glacier. Visibly sweating now on the final approach, he hand cranked the skis and locked them down into the landing position. The plane touched down on the glacier, bouncing and sliding around like a dirt bike in deep mud, shedding speed as the skis ploughed through the slushy snow. Once the plane stopped, our guide got out first. We soon joined him, probing the immediate area with long, thin poles to check beneath the snow for crevasses. Finding none, we unloaded the gear and food for the next week out of the plane. Starting up the plane, the pilot spun the craft around and took off along the same tracks set down upon our arrival. After the plane flew out of sight, it was very, very quiet. We had flown on a commercial jet into Anchorage, ridden in a Suburban about 5 hours to a small town of less than 100, then flew another 45 minutes in a ski-equipped bush plane to get to our current spot. The pilot’s earlier nervousness was justified; this glacier had likely not been visited by humans before, let alone landed upon by a plane. The icy topography of the glacier buried under the thick layer of snow was unknown – any crevasses lurking beneath the smooth white surface could easily swallow a person or a plane. The park we were in was larger than some eastern seaboard states, and there was at least one glacier larger than Rhode Island. We were a long way from any kind of assistance. We spent the rest of the day setting up a camp, building up a wall of snow blocks to protect the camp from winds, and probing the immediate area for crevasses. The weather stayed clear and warm, which was nice for getting set up. As the sun warmed the surrounding peaks, snow slides ran in a sundial-like progression – the peaks receiving the most direct sun shed snow the most. At this latitude near the solstice, the sun rose in the north east and set a few degrees west, still mostly north, providing a near complete circle of direct sun. However, the very long days made for a short climbing window each day. We had to make our approach, climb and return during the cooler, darker time each day so the snow covering over lurking crevasses would be solidly frozen into relative safety.

We had chosen a guided trip, as while my wife and I were fairly adept at winter camping and climbing in the lower 48, Alaskan glaciers and mountaineering were in another league. Professional instruction was worth the money spent. We spent the next day learning and practicing crevasse rescue. The next couple of days we got to climb a couple of the smaller peaks close to our camp. We got caught out late one morning, and as we were descending a gully from the peak we had just climbed, the sun began its inexorable warming of the rocks and ice above us, sending increasing amounts of thawed debris down upon us. Dispensing with the textbook slow, roped descent, we then proceeded unroped, and glissaded and jogged out of the shooting gallery of falling stones. Our most sought-after mountain was attempted after waiting out a couple of warm, snowy nights, which did not allow the snow to freeze solid. We began around midnight, and slogged across the glacier to a beautiful knife-edged peak rising from the basin we were in. Switching from snowshoes to crampons we ascended the sharp edge, steep and mildly technical. At a crevasse about 2/3 of the way up, our guide spent some time attempting to make a path across the partly covered gap. Despite treading lightly, he began punching through the snow bridge, and we backed off. As we were contemplating our next move, the snow I was standing on began to sink into a previously undiscovered void. Climb aborted, we headed back to camp a bit disappointed, but exhilarated nonetheless. Our last night out was spent climbing a much easier, but safer peak. The views from the top reached well into Canada, and included hundreds of unnamed, unclimbed peaks, as well as glaciers covering hundreds of square miles. This is what we came here for, to experience one of the most remote, sublime places on earth. This fleeting moment passed all too quickly. The next day we broke down camp, flew out and returned to “civilization”. 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.

CROSSROADS JULY 2014

MOORE ON LIFE A Penny Saved Makes No Cents Most people walk by a penny on the street and believe it’s not worth picking up. They would be correct. According to the U.S. mint, it now costs more to manufacture a penny than it’s worth…1.83 cents to be exact. So yes, the energy exerted to pick one up far exceeds the amount earned from pocketing it. But, has that ever stopped me from stooping so low to pluck one up? Nope. A person just may think that I grew up in the depression, the way I feel compelled to rescue anything that might still serve a purpose. Case and points: I save my plastic grocery bags to line my garbage cans; I keep on hand a supply of cottage cheese and whipped cream containers for leftovers; I reuse sandwich bags if possible and always fold up and keep my used foil for a sequel. I also keep bread ties, for emergencies because you never know, the way the dollar has devalued combined with the impending zombie apocalypse, we just may have to use them for currency in the near future. It goes on: I always reuse gift bags along with the gift tissue. I have even been known to rescue a birthday card given to me that was signed in pencil. It was easy enough to erase and saved me three bucks. Both of my cats are rescues. I frequently remind them that if it were not for my generosity they would both be in that big kitty litter box in the sky. They return my kindness by ignoring me and scratching the leather couch to shreds. Continuing, I always bag up the leftovers from restaurant meals, as well as any extra bread, leftover chips and salsa, or anything else not cemented to the table. My husband makes me draw the line at the foil-wrapped butters. I say they are included in the meal

and mine for the taking; he reminds me that stealing stuff is not the same as recycling. I throw in a few sugar packets instead, and one of those little plastic containers of grape jelly when he is not looking. I have also been known to curb shop and have helped myself to perfectly good throwaways. I once came across a lovely vintage chair on the side of the road and promptly tossed it into my trunk. Kind of like drive-by shopping…only free. A like-minded friend of mine told me she made a screeching U-turn to backtrack and load up a delicious roadside find. It was a perfectly good ladder, which she was sure her husband could use. Only after it was halfway in her car, did she hear a voice in the branches above. To her utter mortification, the tree trimmer demanded that she return the ladder she had just taken. She learned a valuable lesson that day: Always look before you leap, or in her case, always look “up” before you “leave”. Hmmm, makes me wonder if someone’s vintage table set is minus one chair; perhaps they’re using a mismatched barstool to this day and cursing my existence at every meal. I’ve also discovered it is important to be cautious of yard sales, since I brake for them regularly. Once, as I was burrowing into a box of things at a sale, a man asked if he might help me. About time, I thought. There was not a price tag to be found among the items and I had thoroughly rummaged through the rummage. I replied, in a somewhat curt tone, that a price on the stuff would be helpful. For which he answered, “Don’t usually price things at my annual garage cleaning.” Awkward. So I am thrifty and a collector, either that or a sure candidate for a gig on Hoarders. With that said, I’m almost ashamed to ad-

mit that I’ve yet to throw away my Taco Bell hot sauce packet collection. I have somehow amassed a stockpile bordering on a doomsday prepper stash. You may laugh, but when the zombie apocalypse takes place my family and I will be dining on sauce and sugar packets while purchasing other needed supplies with our bread tie money, while sadly, the rest of humanity perishes. Finally, something that makes sense! 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.

www.mscwired.org

www.viperrocks.com

JULY 2014 CROSSROADS

ADVERTISER PROFILES Explore Weekend Delights — the RV Way By Russ Patton The neat thing about RVs is the versatility of designs that fit any purpose. From $5,000 folding campers to $500,000 motorhomes, Byerly RV in Eureka stocks a large inventory of new and pre-owned RVs. The new Palomini travel trailer is a perfect weekender for three seasons. A variety of models start at about 2,000 pounds. That light weight makes it easy to tow, while still having the comforts of home. The Memorial Day weekend always inflames the RV fervor. People pour in with determination. Having an RV means no more sleeping on soggy ground, no more midnight hikes to the public bathrooms, no more suffering through the summer’s sweltering heat, and no more cramming the car with all of your gear. You can just hook up and enjoy the ride. And when you want to leave the campground to explore, you can leave all of your stuff secured in your RV. And hunters should take notice. These little campers are a perfect retreat from the elements.

Photo courtesy of Byerly RV

For campers who just want a step or two above the primitive, Byerly RV also sells Palomino folding tent trailers. We have represented Palomino campers for 35 years. They are lightweight, innovative and affordable. But we offer more than just Palomino. Check out the Wildwood, Solara and Passport ultra-lite, smaller travel trailers. Check us out at www.byerlyrv.com to see our entire selection. Byerly is celebrating our 66th year in business. Byerly RV-The Center of the RV World, is located along I-44 in Eureka, Mo., just one exit east of Six Flags. For more information, call 636.938.2000.

How to Apply for a Home Loan, Step by Step By Robin Daniels With the summer real estate season upon us, many people will consider purchasing a home. For first-time homebuyers, the task of applying for a mortgage can be quite intimidating. As someone who’s dealt with many first-timers, let me help ease your anxiety by offering a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a home loan. Step 1: Select your lender. This first step is important because it sets the tone for the entire loan application process. Your loan officer is the person that walks you through the process of applying for, and closing a home loan and it’s crucial that he/she makes you feel comfortable, is accessible when you have questions, and most importantly, is knowledgeable about the process. Step 2: Submit an application. After meeting your lender, you will need to fill out a mortgage application for the home you intend to purchase. Questions such as income, existing debt, account balances and a list of your current assets will be included on the form. In addition to the application, most lenders will ask to see a copy of your most recent tax return, W2s, pay stubs and bank statements. Step 3: Determine what type of loan best meets your needs. Once your qualifying documents have been reviewed and a credit check performed, your lender will discuss with you the type of loan products that best meet your needs and if you’re able to afford the loan amount you desire. Step 4: Approval process. Next, you will receive a good faith estimate and early truth in lending disclosures to ensure you know how much the loan is going to cost and what your monthly payment 14

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will be. Verifications of deposit and employment will also be sent to your financial institution and employer to verify the information that you previously submitted. Step 5: Insurance and taxes. As the homebuyer, you are responsible for purchasing a residential insurance policy. It is also important to review the annual real estate taxes on the property you are purchasing. Many times, home buyers roll the cost of the insurance and taxes into their mortgage payment allowing for those costs to be divided evenly in their monthly payment, instead of a large, annual cost. This is not always an option depending on the type of loan, but should be something you discuss with your lender. Step 6: Order title work and appraisal ordered by lender. Title work lists the current owners of the property, any existing liens and any other outstanding issues there may be with the title to the home you are going to purchase. An appraisal ensures the cost of the home is accurate based on the current market values in your area. Step 7: Lock in a rate and close. Before reaching this point, your loan officer should have already discussed interest rates with you based on your unique situation. Once a rate is set you will then proceed with signing all the final documents that officially make you a homeowner. In some cases you may have to go to a Title Company to sign documents and complete the closing process. Robin Daniels is Assistant VP/Secondary Market Manager for Peoples Bank & Trust Co. NMLS #408454 | 636.290.7272 | www.pbtc.net

Get your Kicks on Route 66

Road tripping across Missouri

By Stephanie Lynch

here’s an historic stretch of road running from the Midwest to the West Coast where the proverbial slice of Americana is served up with roadside businesses, classic motels, memorable eateries, beautiful scenery and colorful characters. For slightly more than 300 miles, that little stretch of road known the world over as Route 66 carves its way across the Show-Me State, offering motorists a truly original Missouri experience. People who know much about Route 66 in Missouri know it’s one of the most fascinating segments of the highway, which runs more than 2,400 miles from Chicago to Los Angeles. Travel to any one of the countless businesses along Route 66 in Missouri and unfolding before you are stories of travelers from foreign countries yearning to experience the great American road for them-

selves. “It’s the best way to see America, end to end,” Connie Echols, owner of the Wagon Wheel Motel in Cuba, said in an interview last fall. “Overseas, it’s a prestige thing to ride 66, especially on a motorcycle. In summer, a third, maybe closer to a half, of my business is from overseas. One night, we had 11 rooms rented from 10 countries. Half of them didn’t speak English.” In Missouri, Route 66 travelers have the opportunity to see the Show-Me State from east to west, starting in St. Louis and ending up west of Joplin – or vice versa. Although much of the highway is known today as Interstate 44, there’s plenty of original Route 66 pavement left to explore. Continued on page 16

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Along the way, sights include well-known landmarks such as the Gateway Arch in St. Louis and Meramec Caverns in Stanton, and quirky attractions such as the World’s Largest Rocking Chair, found at the Fanning 66 Outpost, just a few miles west of the Wagon Wheel Motel, outside Cuba. The traditional Route 66 experience in Missouri begins at the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge, which opened in 1929, connecting Missouri and Illinois. Today, the mile-long bridge – which features a distinct 30-degree turn about midway across its span – is closed to vehicle traffic, but open to pedestrians and bicyclists. While in St. Louis, Route 66 travelers are drawn to the Gateway Arch, which stands 630 feet and is the tallest national monument in the U.S. From the top of the Arch, guests are treated to a fantastic view of the St. Louis area. It’s not a bad place to catch the city’s beloved Cardinals in action, though distinguishing numbers on the players’ jerseys might be difficult. Of course, no road trip is complete without great eats. Enter Ted Drewes. This roadside frozen custard stand in St. Louis is a Route 66 mainstay, dating to 1941. Scores of people flock to Ted Drewes every day – it’s kind of like the city’s unofficial summertime hangout. If you go after a Cardinals game, be prepared to meet lots of new friends. The place will be packed. Traveling west out of St. Louis, the Museum of Transportation hosts a world-class collection of planes, trains and automobiles, literally, while Route 66 State Park near Eureka includes a visitor center with information on Route 66. The park’s outdoor options include walking, biking, horseback-riding trails, and picnic sites. Traveling west across Route 66 leads to Stanton, perhaps best known as the home of Meramec Caverns, one of the largest show caves in Missouri. At Meramec Caverns, guests have options galore, from the traditional cave tour to outdoor adventure courtesy of Caveman Zipline. Canoe trips on the Meramec River can be arranged, and the site includes a motel, campground, and restaurant. Plus, it’s just a short drive from the Jesse James Wax Museum, where a film of the 16

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outlaw exists and exhibits question his reported shooting death at the hands of gang member Robert Ford. From Stanton, it’s a short drive west to Cuba, home of the aforementioned Wagon Wheel and one of region’s most-popular barbecue joints, Missouri Hick Bar-B-Q. Cuba is noted for its beautiful collection of murals, which make the entire city a kind of roadside attraction. Scenes depict everything from Civil War battles to actress Bette Davis’ semi-scandalous appearance in Cuba in 1948. A young photographer snapped a picture of Davis after she ate dinner at a local hotel. Davis’ male companion had previously told the photographer not to take her picture, and when the flash bulb went off, he chased the photographer down the street, only to end up face down in a mud puddle. The photo appeared in the Cuba News and Review the next week. After taking a minute to look into Bette Davis’ eyes, head west to St. James, home of St. James Winery, one of Missouri’s largest and most-lauded wineries. St. James produces more than 500,000 gallons of wine annually and its products are sold in 18 states. Sample their most-popular wines, Velvet Red and Velvet White, for a true taste of Missouri. Next up is Rolla, home to the University of Missouri Science and Technology (one of the leading engineering schools in the U.S.), home to one of those quirky Route 66 attractions: a replica of Stonehenge. Yes, that Stonehenge. The monument was created from more than 160 tons of granite and formally dedicated in 1984. Also in Rolla, the Totem Pole Trading Post is a must-see for fans of authentic Route 66 history. The Totem Pole offers a variety of wares – from soda and snacks to shirts and souvenirs – for travelers and is one of the route’s true mainstays. It’s been around since 1933 and has survived two moves due to highway realignment. Another Route 66 mainstay is found in Devil’s Elbow, home to the famous Elbow Inn Bar and Bar-B-Q. Originally called the Munger Moss Sandwich Shop, the restaurant dates to the 1930s. Today, it’s a popular stop for those traveling Route 66 by motorcycle and is just around the bend from an oft-photographed bridge spanning the Big Piney

River. The bridge recently re-opened after an extensive reconstruction project and affords a scenic view of the river valley. While travels west lead away from the original Munger Moss Sandwich Shop, they don’t escape its legacy. In Lebanon, the Munger Moss Motel is an original Route 66 motor court, featuring 44 guestrooms and 17 two-room efficiencies. It’s been lovingly cared for by Bob and Ramona Lehman since 1971 and is one of the most sought-after overnight destinations for travelers on Route 66 in Missouri. Next up is Springfield, the birthplace of Route 66. The highway officially was named Route 66 on April 30, 1926, at a meeting in Springfield, which today hosts many Route 66 attractions. Among them is the Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven, a motel with Route 66 motif, and Springfield’s Route 66 Steak ’n Shake restaurant, which dates to the early 1960s and comes complete with neon signs. A little farther down the road, the city’s Convention & Visitors Bureau welcomes guests with a vintage, postcard-like window treatment, while the interior is reminiscent of a 1950s diner on one side and service station on the other. While it’s not on Route 66, no visit to Springfield is complete without a stop at the original Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World, the largest sporting goods retailer in the U.S., covering some 500,000 square feet. An on-site attraction, the Wonders of Wildlife museum is expected to re-open in Spring 2015, stretching Bass Pro’s footprint to nearly 750,000 square feet. As the Missouri stretch of Route 66 draws near its end, there’s still more to see. About 25 miles west of Springfield, near Halltown, is Gary’s Gay Parita, a recreated Sinclair gas station full of Route 66 memora-

bilia. A quick scan at Gary’s online guest book shows concrete evidence of his worldwide influence; it includes visitors from England, Brazil, France and Germany, to name a few. Still farther west, near Carthage, sits a unique Route 66 attraction, Road Oak II village. Inside the village grounds are restored versions of homes and businesses artist Lowell Davis knew and loved as a child, when he lived in the community of Red Oak. Today, the village includes things like blacksmith shops and feed stores that were common when Davis was a youth. Drive through the village and explore the grounds; it’s an experience not to be missed. Two roadside attractions are waiting in Webb City, just west of Carthage. The first, Praying Hands, is exactly what it sounds like, only bigger. This giant sculpture of hands, depicted as if held in prayer, stands 32 feet tall and weighs more than 100 tons. It’s not far from the city’s Kneeling Miner, a 10-foot-tall monument that pays tribute to the city’s mining history. Both were created by local artist Jack Dawson. Before leaving Missouri, savor the sweet Route 66 adventure with a stop at the Candy House Gourmet Chocolates in Joplin. While available sweets here are plentiful, it’s hard to resist the specialty Route 66-themed assortments. The Route 66 Mother Road Gift Basket and the Route 66 Roadside Snack Basket include chocolate bars, popcorn and other treats – the perfect capper to any Missouri road trip. Photos courtesy Missouri Division of Tourism

Cay’s Road Trip Playlist By: Catherine Armbruster 1. America by Neil Diamond 2. Life is a Highway by Tom Cochrane 3. Black Water by Doobie Brothers 4. Long Cool Woman (In a Black Dress) by The Hollies 5. Walk of Life by Dire Straits 6. Bang a Gong (Get it On) by T.Rex 7. Sympathy for the Devil by Rolling Stones 8. All She Wants to Do is Dance by Don Henley 9. Are You Gonna Be My Girl? by Jet 10. On Top of the World by Imagine Dragons 11. Take on Me by a-ha 12. Safety Dance by Men Without Hats 13. Stuck in the Middle With You by Stealers Wheel 14. Back in Black by AC/DC

Photo page 15: The Wagon Wheel Motel in Cuba, Mo. Photo page 16: Meramec Caverns is located in Eureka, Mo. Photo page 17: Road Oak II village in Carthage includes things like blacksmith shops and feed stores.

15. Up Around the Bend by Creedence Clearwater Revival

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Food Trucks in Frontier Park

Ray made the rounds at the Food Trucks in Frontier Park event in St. Charles on Tuesday, June 17. Ray collected good food and snapped great photos of the many trucks and food truck enthusiasts who turned out for the event on a warm St. Charles evening by the river.

Photo Op Photos by Ray Rockwell

The next Food Trucks in Frontier Park, presented by the city of St. Charles Parks and Recreation Department, will be Tuesday, August 19 18

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR

To see your organization’s event listed here, please email editor@mycnews.com

O’Fallon Heritage & Freedom Fest

July

Heritage & Freedom Fest Parade

5:30–11pm, 9:30am–noon, Ozzie Smith Sports 100 Main St., O’Fallon Complex, TR Hughes Blvd., Continued at bottom of calendar 636.379.5614

Lake Saint Louis Farmers & Artists Market 8am-noon, 314.495.2531

Starts Tomorrow!

Power Play at

Lake Saint Louis Farmers & Artists Market 8am-noon, 314.495.2531

at Civic Park, 6:30-9pm, 636.379.5614

Food Truck Frenzy

Groovethang at

5–8pm, Fort Zumwalt Park,1000 Jessup Drive, 636.379.5605

Lake Saint Louis Farmers & Artists Market

at Civic Park, 6:30-9pm, 636.379.5614

8am-noon, 314.495.2531

Cardboard Boat Race at Alligator’s Creek, 4–6pm, 403 Civic Park Drive, 636.272.1626

St. Charles County Fair at Rotary Park, 8am-11pm, 636.327.6949

St. Charles County Fair at Rotary Park, 8am-11:30pm 636.327.6949

St. Charles County Fair at Rotary Park, 8am-11:59pm 636.327.6949

July events continued...

O’Fallon Jazz Band, O’Fallon Community Concert Band at

July 4: O’Fallon Heritage & Freedom Fest, noon-10pm, Ozzie Smith Sports Complex, TR Hughes Blvd., 636.379.5614

Fourth of July Festivities at Civic Park, 6:30-9pm, 636.379.5614

at Progress Park, 10am9:05pm, 636.639.5101

July 22: El Scorcho at O’Fallon Jammin’, at

Civic Park, 6:30-9pm, 636.379.5614

July 26: Lake Saint Louis Farmers & Artists Market, 8am-noon,

314.495.2531

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2139-A Bryan Valley Commercial Dr., Oâ€™Fallon, MO 63366