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A day in the life of a guard

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JULY 2015 contents

VOL 12 | NO 7

Departments

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

What’s The Word? History is alive (and crumbling) in Wentzville

Always an Adventure Moving meditation

Moore on Life Summer sale-ing

Publisher Robert Huneke

Automobile Alley 2015 Ford Edge has lots of crossover appeal

Editor Mathew DeKinder

Production Manager Rebecca Brockmann

Business Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce

Entertainment Amy Schumer: Miss July 2015 of the movies

Food Perfect picnic picks

Photo Op St. Louis Renaissance Faire

Community Calendar: July

Contributors Avalanche, Robin Daniels, David Finkelstein, Tony Mathews, Cindy Moore, Laurie Nobe, Russ Patton, Kyle Tons Photographer Ray Rockwell Staff Writer Brett Auten

features

By Kyle Tons – Communications Specialist

For advertising information, please contact us at:

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

www.mycnews.com

Copyright 2015 Huneke Publications, Inc. No part of the publication may be reproduced in any form without the expressed written consent of the publisher. Crossroads is a trademark of Huneke Publications, Inc. Any published use of Crossroads implying affiliation is strictly prohibited.

Nonprofit Profile Friends of Kids With Cancer

A day in the life of a guard Lifeguards at Progress Park Pool in Wentzville work hard to ensure fun in the sun By: Brett Auten

Advertiser Profiles …But don’t be late for school By Russ Patton

‘Going green’ with your home this summer By Robin Daniels

On the Cover: Photo by Ray Rockwell

JULY 2015 | CROSSROADS

Around Town

Camie’s Literacy Group makes annual book donation for youngest Wentzville students Over 3,600 elementary students in the Wentzville School District received a free book this past school year thanks to the efforts and vision of a grandmother and educator. Faith Gardner, who works as a diagnostician for the district, is the founder of Camie’s Literacy Group (CLG). She established the group almost six years ago after being inspired by her granddaughter Camie’s love of reading. Gardner says the idea that all children don’t have access to age-appropriate books at home was unacceptable to her, so she enlisted the help of her family, friends and coworkers in order to get CLG off the ground in 2009. That year, CLG provided a free book for every kindergarten, first and second grader enrolled at Heritage Primary. Since that time, the non-profit has donated over 18,000 books for district students to take home and keep as their own. CLG’s mission, according to Gardner, is to “encourage the love of reading books in young children. To this aim we dedicate ourselves to the goal of obtaining and distributing an appropriate new book to those most in need. Our greatest hope is that every child will have a new book to call their own.” This year the group reached their goal of providing new books to every kindergarten, first and second grade student enrolled in the district – a total of 3,643 kids. “It feels so good to be able to get each young student in the district a book,” shared Gardner. “I get so excited to see the children who love to get their own book. It’s really just how I imagined it when I

Photo courtesy Wentzville School District Students in Mrs. Todd’s kindergarten class at Duello Elementary read books donated by Carnie’s Literacy Group.

started CLG.” CLG holds a trivia night annually to raise money to purchase the books that are given away. For more information about CLG or to make a donation, visit their facebook page at http://www.facebook. com/camiesliteracygroup. “I think Dr. Seuss said it best,” said Discovery Ridge Elementary first grade teacher LeDominique Hubbard. ‘The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more you learn, the more places you’ll go.’ The donation of books is amazing; the excitement on kids’ faces when they receive their own books is a joy to watch.”

The region’s coolest summer event, Slide the City, is coming to O’Fallon For the coolest street party of the summer, get tickets for Slide the City – O’Fallon and go slip-sliding away on a 1,000-foot inflatable waterslide. Featuring a padded slip-and-slide the length of three football fields, Slide the City will be set up on Mexico Road at Fort Zumwalt West High School on Saturday and Sunday, July 25 and 26. Food trucks, vendors, music and complimentary parking and shuttle service will make Slide the City – O’Fallon the county’s hottest summer street party. “This new event is going to be one of the highlights of this summer,” said Tourism and Festivals Manager Marsha Seymour. “It has sold out in other cities, and it will sell out here too! We encourage everyone to sign up for this family-friendly event as soon as possible. To ride the slide, kids must be at least 5 years old and 46 inches tall, but we’ll have a really fun atmosphere with great food and entertainment to make sure that all ages enjoy the fun. And, people will be able to purchase Slide the City merchandise and upgrade

CROSSROADS | JULY 2015

their tickets on the day of the event if space is available.” In order to slide, tickets must be purchased for each day of the event. Ticket options include: • One single slide for $15 • Three slides in one day for $30 • Unlimited number of slides per day (VIP) for $50 Prices will increase as the event nears; day-of-event registration will be $30, $45 and $65, if tickets are still available. Sliding starts at noon and continues through 5 p.m. However, VIP ticket-holders will be able to slide from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. To save 10 percent off all ticket options, go to www.ofallon.mo.us/slide to register and enter the promo code ofallon15. For registration, detailed information on the event, such as what to bring, event updates, parking and more, please visit www.ofallon. mo.us/slide .

Around Town

Wentzville Graduating Seniors Awarded Community Scholarships The Wentzville School District Class of 2015 has been awarded over $100,000 worth of local scholarships during Senior Honors Convocation events. These deserving students from both Holt and Timberland High Schools received their diplomas on June 7 before they continue on with their post-secondary education. Individual amounts of these awards range from $200 to $4,000. “Community groups year in and year out provide thousands of dollars in scholarships for our high achieving students so they can further their education and continue their individual path of excellence founded in the WSD,” said Superintendent Dr. Curtis Cain. “Living in a community that generously supports its students and their future endeavors is what makes our area special.”

Photo courtesy Wentzville School District Timberland senior Stephen Frick shakes hands with Molly Sullivan from USA Mortgage at Timberland High School Honors Night.

St. Charles County Police Department, Project Backpack offer hope to displaced children St. Charles County Police Department received 140 brand-new backpacks filled with new basic needs and comfort items from its community partner, Project Backpack St. Louis. The backpacks, each valued at a minimum of $75, will be gifted to children displaced from their homes as a result of domestic violence, Photo courtesy St. Charles County Police Department disaster, homelessness and other life-changing situa- St. Charles County Police officers stand with Project Backpack volunteers. tions. The bags are age- and gender-appropriate and helps us to build trust and reinforces their importance to us.” available for children from newborns to middle adoProject Backpack was established in 1999 to provide services for lescents. “Our partnership with Project Backpacks broadens our impact in children in crisis in St. Charles County, St. Louis City and St. Louis the community,” said David Todd, SCCPD Chief of Police. “Providing County. Visit www.projectbackpackstlouis.org to learn more inforvulnerable children — especially older youth — with the backpacks mation.

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JULY 2015 | CROSSROADS

What's the Word?

History is alive (and crumbling) in Wentzville “You can’t depend on your eyes when your imagination is out of some of you historians may know that the original tobacco factory focus.” While researching the history of Wentzville I ran across this was razed to create a parking lot for the Public Works facility. Built in quote from Mark Twain and it hit me. Just because something looks early to mid-1860’s, this building is the last remaining brick tobacco old, dilapidated, out of touch and just plain ugly doesn’t mean it isn’t factory in Western St. Charles County. The second floor of the facworth saving. Our eyes can sometimes seem to fool us into believing tory was used as a curing house to hang the tobacco and was then what we see. So much of the city of Wentzville is new, as the Parkway converted into plug tobacco on the first floor. Once the tobacco was has big chain retail stores that bring out the masses each and every ready, it was transported to the railroad freight station for shipment day. But there is one thing people seem to St. Louis, Kansas City, and to forget, there would be no “Parkway” other major U.S. destinations. without the rich history that Wentzville In 2011 the home and tobacco provided to the footprint of the city, factory were donated to the some of which can still be seen today. Wentzville Historical Society If you have ever taken a drive down by the Hoekelman family, with Main Street in downtown Wentzville, hopes that the Historical Sociyou have surely seen the Robert Dula ety would try to save the signifihouse and tobacco factory. You know, cant home. it’s the big, white, beautiful house at 408 The beautiful white, two-story E. Main Street that looks like it is about structure with its red brick toto come crumbling down. Bright orange bacco factory in back has me fencing blocks the gorgeous front porch mesmerized. Standing in front to the property, as the landing is no lonof the home seeing it almost ger structurally sound; weeds grow tall Photo by Laurie Nobe crumbling to the ground has and vast around the property, paint is The Robert Dula house and tobacco factory at 408 E. Main Street me heartbroken. To know that missing off the outside of the home. The one of the oldest remaining deep red brick building in back, the old tobacco factory, can barely structures in Wentzville could come crashing down at any moment be seen among the grass and the old, rusted chain link fence that has me wanting to make a change. I will only say this once, it is not covers the back of the property. about the city, the Historical Society, the Downtown Business AsWhat is this house and what the heck is going on, you ask? Well, that sociation or any other entity trying to save this home, it is about house is the history of Wentzville. According to the Wentzville His- the people, the community, the residents of Wentzville who do not torical Society, the Robert Dula House and Tobacco Factory was built want to see the oldest remaining home in the city of Wentzville around 1860, making it older than the city of Wentzville as Wentzville come crashing down. was not incorporated as a fourth-class city until March 1872. To the residents of Wentzville and St. Charles County, do you want Robert Dula and his partner, Caleb Dula (who became the first this piece of history to be torn down and made into another parking president of Lieggett & Meyers Tobacco Company), were top-notch lot? No? Then let’s do something. We as a community can help save tobacco farmers in Western St. Charles County running two tobacco the Dula House and Tobacco Factory. If you take a drive past 408 E. factories in Wentzville. The home was occupied by Dula until 1885 Main St., you will clearly see that contractors, painters, roofers, landwhen he sold the business to a St. Charles interest. The red brick scapers, etc., and volunteers are needed to bring this historical home building in back of the home was the second tobacco factory, as back to life. Let’s return this residence back into the beautiful gem that it once was by coming together and making it happen. Do you have it in you to help save this piece of history from its demise? Then do something! Email Laurie Nobe at Lnobe@mycnews. com and let me know you want to help. I will actively collect a list of people and businesses who want to restore the Dula House & Tobacco Factory. Together, we can make a difference! by LAURIE NOBE

Laurie Nobe was born, raised and still resides in St. Charles County. She is rehabbing a house and planning a late summer wedding with her fiancé.

CROSSROADS | JULY 2015

Nonprofit Profile

Friends of Kids With Cancer

lends a helping hand through trying times By Kyle Tons – Communications Specialist – Friends of Kids with Cancer Sometimes when you’re in a tough spot all you want is a helping hand. Friends of Kids with Cancer has been lending a hand to children going through treatment for cancer and their families in the St. Louis-area since 1992. “Friends” began after several parents and nurses at Mercy Hospital realized the lack of positive, fun things to do for patients coming in for treatments. We have since been able to serve patient families at all of the other local pediatric oncology centers in St. Louis. Friends of Kids with Cancer is devoted to enriching the daily lives of children undergoing treatment for, and survivors of, cancer and blood-related diseases. Our mission is to be an advocate for these special kids and provide them and their families with the educational, emotional, and recreational support and programs needed as a result of the long hours of chemotherapy, illness and isolation. Children in treatment for cancer can miss significant amounts of school and are often challenged with future learning disabilities. Our educational programs engage their minds and enhance their self-esteem. We provide an educational tutor that travels around to the treatment centers to help the patients keep-up with schoolwork and studying since many of them miss significant amounts of school for treatment. It’s important to have positive options for patients and families to express their thoughts and feelings when words just don’t suffice. Our emotional programs instill confidence and help form therapeutic relationships, which assist in releasing these feelings. Our wonderful art therapist travels around to the treatment centers to help our patients cope with their emotions and stresses through artwork

and crafts. Friends of Kids with Cancer makes a bad day better. By creating a positive atmosphere, our recreational programs keep smiles on the kids’ faces every day despite their illnesses. We provide patients and their families with the opportunities for uplifting experiences and memories to hold onto, such as tickets to sporting or musical events, special family outings and much more! Want to get involved? We host five major fundraisers per year. The remaining fundraisers for 2015 include Art From the Heart and the Fashion Show & Boutique. Art From the Heart is a beautiful evening on Sep. 24 at Mungenast Lexus – St. Louis, where we display and auction-off artwork created by our patients in our Art Therapy Program. The Fashion Show & Boutique is on Nov. 5 at The Ritz Photo courtesy Friends of Kids With Cancer Carlton – St. Louis. This fundraiser is a special day for many patients as they are the models for both the lunch and dinner shows, while getting treated to the “Hollywood-life” all-day! The models begin the day entering a room full of gifts just for them. Models can get professional makeup and hair done as they ‘strut their stuff’ down the runway while wearing beautiful clothes for our fashion show guests to admire. Friends of Kids with Cancer always says we love what we do, but wish we didn’t have to do it. As long as cancer continues to affect the lives of beautiful children and their families, we will be around to lend a hand and continue helping kids with cancer…be kids!

For more information, please ‘Like’ Friends of Kids with Cancer on Facebook, follow @FOKWC on Twitter, @friends_of_kids on Instagram, call 314-275-7440 or visit www.friendsofkids.org JULY 2015 | CROSSROADS

Always An Adventure

Moving meditation It started raining about 30 minutes after I got on the road. I was geared up for rain, snow, sleet, cold or heat. Good thing, as all those conditions would exist within the first three hours of the trip. The parched conditions of an unusually dry winter were happily forgotten, as May had been record-setting wet, with drenching rain and heavy snow. Go figure. Rolling up toward the top of the first pass a little over an hour after starting out, the black sky ahead was the harbinger of things to come. The light, intermittent rain became steady, then moderate, then heavy. The electric vest that I had nearly left behind due to its bulk earned its keep during this next hour. Dropping a gear and slowing as the precipitation increased in intensity, the thermometer on the handlebars told me what was uncomfortably obvious - it was getting colder, quickly. At about 9,000 feet in elevation, the rain turned to wet snow. Heavy wet flakes hit the windscreen and my helmet face-shield. Checking - again - that the switch to the

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electric vest was in the “on” position, I wondered if the vest or the electrical system was failing, as it didn’t seem to be adding much warmth. Nope, the only failure was with the weather forecast, which had stated that the chance of precipitation was about 10 percent. Technically, the forecast was correct, but that 10 percent had lasted for about 75 percent of the miles I had covered so far this morning. The thermometer indicated 36 degrees for the last miles up the pass. That number was always a few degrees high, as some of the engine heat wafted its way up around the front forks and washed over the top of the handlebars. The snow was now sticking to my windscreen and face-shield. The grass and trees along the road were white, but the pavement was still just wet. While the ambient temperature was right around freezing, the ground still held enough heat to keep the white stuff from forming a motorcycle-unfriendly glaze on the tarmac. So far, so good. A couple miles past the crest of the mountain, as the elevation dropped, the temps rose up to an indicated 40 degrees and the white falling from the sky had shifted to a steady rain. Despite the “improving” conditions and the warming electrons circulating around in my vest, it was less than balmy. Dropping into the mountain valley the rain subsided and allowed my gear to dry out. The next pass went easier; higher and cooler, but dry. Dropping down the other side a stop at a coffee shop provided a chance to warm up with some hot liquid refreshment and check the coming weather. All clear from here on east. One hour onto

the eastern plains, the temps hit nearly 80 degrees, quite a shock to my bundled-up-forthe-arctic self. Only 1,000 miles to go... After an overnight motel stay in the plains, the next day’s traveling went well. The remnants of holiday traffic had subsided, road construction was minimal and most of the cops were likely in the office finishing up the paperwork from the holiday weekend festivities. Once into the Ozarks the riding slowed but became more interesting. Long, straight, monotonous stretches of road, which had worn a flat spot onto the bottom of my tires, gave way to nearly non-stop curves. A few hours later I arrived at my destination, got settled in and planned the next ride. There are any number of rides in the Ozarks that qualify for two-wheeled Nirvana. One particular road was mentioned by a prominent motorcycle magazine, and now on weekends it is over-populated by twowheeled “squids” - typically young males with an over-abundance of hormones and horsepower, and a shortage of good judgment. It’s best to go on that road only on weekdays. I was able to combine that road with another known for its “technical” riding. Such roads are labeled “Steep and Crooked” by the state highway department. I translate those signs as “Welcome to The Fun Zone.” The beauty of this terrain is that it doesn’t require triple digit speeds to clean the tread up on the sides of your tires. Riding at the speed limit provides plenty of opportunity to brush up on one’s cornering skills, a form of moving meditation practice. Set up on the outside of the turn, initiate the lean, hit maximum lean through and just past the apex, throttle up and straighten the bike up as the exit passes. Repeat as needed. Smoother is better. The mind will not wander, or the penalty can be severe. Meditation is rarely this much fun. 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

Summer sale-ing You see the signs popping up all over the place faster than pimples on a teenager after gorging down a chocolate pizza. They’re stuck in lawns, on curbs and hung on neighborhood fence posts. They’re even on telephone poles pasted right over the, “Do not post under penalty of law” warnings. Yes, the yard sale season is in full swing. I follow my mantra, “I never met a yard sale I didn’t brake for.” The money it has caused me in crumpled fenders from sudden stops has more than paid off with the cash I have pocketed in money-saving bargains. But not according to my husband. I would like him to agree that, “One person’s trash is another’s treasure.” But he doesn’t see it that way. He follows his own mantra, “One person’s trash is purchased by another to become the junk that they put in their next yard sale.” It is an entirely too long and complicated mantra. He just doesn’t realize the treasures to be discovered. Take the time I found that handy dandy banana slicer. It’s shaped like a banana with sharp cutting slots. You simply place it over the peeled fruit then push and ta-da – banana slices! Heaven knows the struggles I now avoid when slicing one. The old method required manually laboring with a cumbersome butter knife. This ultimately produced imprecise sizes making them altogether unacceptable and unpresentable, resulting in a complete mockery of my bowl of cereal. My husband has yet to find such a gem and that’s because he’s jinxed. Whenever he tags along, the sale turns out to be a complete bust. I recently made a stop with him at a large sale. Parking was at a premium. I grabbed the last spot by wedging our car under the mailbox. “You can’t park here. How is the mailman going to deliver?” “No worries. We’ll be in and out before then,” I said. We began out hunt. I saw several pieces of like-new exercise equipment – a stationary bike and treadmill. Naturally, after one use they had out-lived their shelf life and needed to be relegated to their real function – something to hang

clothing on. I already had a few of these high-price d, clothes-hanging devices so I passed. I stumbled upon a box of books. Always a good find. It was filled with some old medical textbooks. The one with instructions on dissecting the human brain and extracting its mysteries piqued my interest. I thought it might give me a glimpse into the reason my husband comes up with such dumb mantras. At five bucks I dropped it back into its dusty tomb. Over-priced sales are annoying. Later I spied a box of nice fabric. I picked up a silky piece thinking it might make a nifty pillow covering only to discover it was used lingerie. Arrgh! It touched my skin. “Purell…stat!” I screeched. I then passed a table filled with medicine cabinet horrors; used tubes of ointment for questionable maladies, half empty bottles of antacids and other gassy nightmare remedies. Thank goodness my husband didn’t get a chance to see the opened container of intestinal blockage reliever or I’d never hear the end of it. I saw him riffling through a box of albums. “Any vintage Elvis or Beatles worth millions?” He pulled out an aged vinyl of Englebert Humperdink and gave me a snarky smirk. Later we met at the checkout stand. He had an item clutched in his hands. He found a treasure? “What ya got there?” He pushed a button and a giant bass turned its fishy head to me and belted out a song. “Tacky. You are not hanging that in my house!” “Nope. Gonna get the batteries out then chuck it. You could call it, catch and release. What did you find?” he asked.

I tuck it under my arm. “Just a book.” He snatched it away. “Yard Sales for Dummies?!” He flipped to a page. “Hmm, says here only dummies buy banana slicers – use a butter knife instead. Also, never buy books on how to have a yard sale because the price of it will cancel out any proceeds made from the sale.” From the street we heard a crunch. A postal truck somehow smunched the fender of some dummy parked under the mailbox. Jinxed again. 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.

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JULY 2015 | CROSSROADS

A day in the life of a guard Lifeguards at Progress Park Pool in Wentzville work hard to ensure fun in the sun By Brett Auten Movies and television would lead you to think it is mostly a breeze; sunshine, relaxation and surrounded by the carefree. The cubicle is more like a lawn chair and the dress code is pretty casual, but a day in the life of a lifeguard entails plenty of juggling and steely concentration. Nineteen-year-old Nathan Ketchum is a head lifeguard at Wentzville’s popular Progress Park Pool. This is his second year working poolside as Ketchum was looking for a quick, seasonal job where he could make some money and earn some experience between the spring semester of his final year at high school and his freshman year at the University of Missouri. The Holt graduate passed certification and become hooked. Ketchum will typically roll into work at six in the morning. After a bathroom check the emphasis begins on getting the pool ready for the club swim team practices that occur from 7-8:30 a.m. The water is tested for chlorine and PH levels, chairs are scooted out of the way, umbrellas planted into tables. Ketchum and a coworker will assist with the lap lanes, and after practice a different crew of swimmers arrives as lessons begin at 9 a.m. Giving swim lessons and teaching aqua-related classes is another option for lifeguards to earn some extra wages. Some prefer only giving lessons and not working during public pool hours. “There can be anywhere between two-to-10 kids per class from all ages and skill sets,” Ketchum said. After checking in with the aquatics manager to make sure the schedule is running smoothly, the pieces are in place for the public to arrive at noon. Swimmer safety is paramount and there are always 10 lifeguards on duty at Progress Park with a head lifeguard and an aquatics manager also on location. The pool is surrounded by eight lifeguards perched on stands eyes fixated on the blue water. There is a 20 minute rotation with each lifeguard getting a break usually every hour and 20 minutes. Like any job, some days are slow and some days have you questioning what got you there in the first place.

CROSSROADS | JULY 2015

For a lifeguard, those days can happen when a busload of visitors join an already-active hive of activity at the pool. “When there are more kids than water you really have to stay focused,” Ketchum said. “It can be stressful. It’s 95 degrees and you’re sweaty and you have 90 kids three-feet tall, swimming in four-feet of water.” Ketchum is proud of the team assembled at Progress Point and was quick to note the high test scores the squad recently earned. Every Tuesday and Thursday in-service refreshers drills are ran to make sure everyone stays on their game. A lifeguard is required to attend a minimum of one of these sessions a month. If all things go well, a lifeguard will stay dry during a shift. But the crew at Progress Park has instilled a sort-of jump-first, ask-questions-later philosophy. “We have a zero doubt policy,” Ketchum said. If you have any suspicions, just go. No one will ever tell you you shouldn’t. If they jump in and pull out a leaf, I’d be happy.” As the day winds on, the water is continually monitored for the right levels of chlorine and as the swimmers file out, chairs are stacked and the deck is hosed clean. “Anything we can do to make the 6 a.m. shift a little easier,” Ketchum said. As the pool closes at 9 p.m., Ketchum and the rest of the employees circle the wagons one last time. Lifeguards rely on each other so much and relationships and communication is essential, and it’s these relationships that keep Ketchum coming back “I just love the camaraderie you build with people you meet, whether it’s other lifeguards or certain patrons who come every day,” Ketchum said. “I feel like I make a difference in the city of Wentzville. I don’t do it for the dollar sign. I have had multiple parents tell me they noticed if I do something small like fix the rope of fill in a crack. Their appreciation is approval enough.” Photos by Ray Rockwell Nathan Ketchum (top right) is a head lifeguard at Progress Park Pool in Wentzville. He and his fellow lifeguards perform many duties around the pool, the most important of which is ensuring the safety of the patrons.

2015 Ford Edge has lots of crossover appeal

Has Dearborn-based Ford Motor Company re-invented the crossover with the introduction of the new 2015 Edge? Perhaps not; however, Edge has undeniably gone through many changes in order to offer it up with new technologies. Additional driverassist/user-friendly features, improvements with engine options have raised the bar when it comes to styling and overall craftsmanship. For the end user, clearly these improvements make this model more alluring on many fronts. To help frame our thoughts, Edge is positioned in the Mid-Size “two-row” crossover category with the likes of the Chevrolet Equinox, Jeep Cherokee, Mitsubishi Outlander, Subaru Outback, GMC Terrain and perhaps the revised Nissan Murano. To further put things more in focus, Edge’s blueprint certainly delivers improvements with on-road comfort, notable fuel efficiency and overall driving dynamics for the ‘15 model year. The vehicle’s stronger and more athletic outer shape certainly stands out when comparing it up against the outgoing version. No question, this product has always had a contemporary outer flare about it, but now that design has been enhanced. Furthermore, Edge is now available with many more driver-assist

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technologies. For example, they offer their state-of-the-art automatic active park assist system coupled with adaptive radar-based cruise control and collision warning with brake support. This all helps raise the bar with new safety enhancements from bumper to bumper. “The all-new Edge has been remade in every single detail – always keeping in mind the customer who expects something distinctive and powerful,” said JD Shanahan, chief program engineer for Edge. “With a structure more rigid than ever and a suspension tuned to the highest global standards, the 2015 Edge is a high-tech utility that delivers a special driving experience customers will feel from their initial moments behind the wheel. There are some “whispers” of perhaps a hybrid version of Edge in the future by some of my Detroit-based sources, but this remains to be seen, nothing official from Ford at this time. This popular automotive segment is getting more competitive with the likes of many other makes and models in its class. By Ford addressing these welcomed changes with the 2015 model, they are clearly generating efforts to be a major player. Worth noting as well, the all-new Ford Edge will be sold in more than 100 markets across the globe, as that underlining fact in itself speaks volumes. Edge is on target to begin arriving at Ford dealerships in North America early this spring. 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

…But don’t be late for school By Russ Patton, owner of Byerly RV

“When you set out for Ithaka Ask that your way be long, Full of adventure, full of instruction. …… Have Ithaka always in your mind, Your arrival there is what you are desired for. But don’t in the least hurry the journey.”

Rosinante was an old 1963 Dodge post office truck which I converted into a fine motorhome with my little brother Guy who kept urging me to finish so we could go camping. Finally, in late August, we went “camping.” I didn’t tell our parents where we were going. For days we chased the sun until we couldn’t go any (Constantine P Cavafy) farther. From San Clemente State Park in California we looked down on the Pacific Ocean. But along the way we fought the winds across Kansas, saw the Grand Canyon, Cave of the Winds, Oak Creek Canyon and Disneyland. We traveled in luxury…sort of. Our 48-square-feet of floor space included a sofa/gaucho bed, a bathroom with recirculating toilet, a kitchen with refrigerator and sink and a furnace. The rear roll-up door opened up to a fold-down platform shaded by an awning. Submitted photo Our adventure took a little over two weeks, quite a feat since A vintage photo of Rosinante. Rosinante couldn’t go over 50 mph. But we made it back…two days after school started. America calls. Share it with your family. Buy or rent an RV from Byerly RV in Eureka, but don’t be late for school! Byerly RV, the Center of the RV World. Check us out at www.byerlyrv.com or visit us on Facebook.

‘Going green’ with your home this summer Summer is a great time to start tackling all those projects on your home improvement list. These days, many folks are choosing to take the “going green” route when making their home renovations. While “going green” can be more efficient, be better for the environment and even pay itself off in the long run, often times the high-efficiency appliances can be more expensive. So, if you’re wanting to go green with your home improvements this summer, Peoples Bank & Trust has some tips on how you can get started: Step by Step Improvements: Make an organized list of all of the home improvements that you want to get done this summer. Then, label each task in order of importance. Whether you decide to have your order of importance based on cost or functionality, this will help you prepare a budget

and get done what needs to be done. Consider a Second Opinion: For many folks, going green can be somewhat confusing. You know you want to be more energyefficient, but what products are the best options to invest in? There are many builders or energy-focused nonprofits that are willing to inspect your home and give ideas on “green” specific appliances or updates. Be Patient for that “Payback Period”: Once you have completed your energyefficient renovations, it may take a while (even years) for you to see the cost savings of your energy efficient appliances or updates. Don’t worry, some of the best improvements take years to see the best bang for your buck. Although making these high-efficiency improvements is becoming more popular and pays itself off in the long run, these

type of renovations can be a large and expensive task. Peoples Bank & Trust wants to help you get those improvements done and a home equity loan may be just what you need. Contact us today to learn more about home equity and how we can help you achieve a “greener” home! By Robin Daniels

Robin Daniels is Asst VP/ Secondary Market Manager for Peoples Bank & Trust Co. NMLS #408454 (636) 290-7272 www.pbtc.net

JULY 2015 | CROSSROADS

Business

Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce Chamber hosts four ribbon cutting ceremonies The Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce hosted ribbon cutting ceremonies for Rodan + Fields â€“ Sherry Ruyle, Home Video Studio, Bounce Back Sports and Hwy. 40 Brews. 1. Rodan + Fields. You can contact Rodan + Fields â€“ Sherry Ruyle at 731-225-4918 or visit her online at https:// srskintolove.myrandf. com. 2. Home Video Studio is located at 411 E. Pearce Blvd. in Wentzville. You can contact them at 636887-2883 or visit them online at www.homevideostudio.com/video-services/243/. 3. Bounce Back Sports is located at 153 Hamilton Industrial Drive in Wentzville. You can contact them at 314-813-3353 or visit them online at http://bouncebacksports. com.

4. Hwy. 40 Brews is located at 909 Main Plaza Dr. in Wentzville. You can contact them at 636-887-0388 or visit them online at www.hwy40brews.com. The Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce serves Dardenne Prairie, Lake St. Louis, and Wentzville. The chamber is comprised of over 660 members. If you are interested in having a ribbon cutting at your

place of business please contact the chamber. To view pictures and video of these recent ribbon cuttings please visit our Chamber Facebook Page. For more information please call the chamber office at 636-327-6914 or visit the chamber online at http://westernstcharlescountychamber.com. Submitted photos

www.pbtc.net 14

CROSSROADS | JULY 2015

Business

Serving Wentzville, Lake St. Louis, and Dardenne Prairie

Chamber Back to School Family Fair on Aug. 1 at Morning Star Church The Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce will be hosting their 3rd Annual Back to School Family Fair on Aug. 1 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 princesses and superheroes, 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, 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 $75. The fair saw over 4,000 people 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.

www.sunrisefamily.org

www.takeatrip.net

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.

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JULY 2015 | CROSSROADS

Entertainment

For July, make sure you do your tummy exercises because it’s Amy Schumer’s turn to entertain – and there’s a strong chance you’ll be gut-bursting with laughter. Maybe this is more of a prediction than a fact at this point, but according to some very positive early buzz, Amy’s big screen breakout opportunity, for the movie “Trainwreck,” couldn’t look more promising. Amy Schumer wouldn’t be the only huge female success this summer. Just this past June, Melissa McCarthy received-what could be-the best feedback of her career with her highest-rated movie yet called “Spy,” an action comedy that pokes fun at the films in that genre of the same name. There’s also Charlize Theron who added a healthy twist of estrogen in last May’s testosterone-filled action epic “Mad Max: Fury Road” – a film that received higher ratings than the average Oscar contender. No, I’m not making this up. I’ve seen it myself and it really is a “lovely” experience. Let’s be honest, the women are really turning things up a notch this summer at the movies and the ones that I just mentioned are all R-rated and within the genres of action and comedy – film descriptions that are normally dominated by men as far as cinematic memory serves. Heck, I’m enjoying what this summer has had to offer so far already! Amy Schumer could be the next best thing this season has to offer in the multiplexes. Amy has been quite the success story the pass couple of years thanks to her work as a stand-up comedian and her show on Comedy Central, “Inside Amy Schumer.” Through her unapologetic comedy, skits and gags she’s gained positive attention on tackling subjects – some more controversial than others – such as Hollywood stereotypes, women’s rights, other politics, and sex

among many other important subjects. There’s a brilliant fake birthcontrol commercial online from her show in which she’s forced to ask her boss and countless other strangers – besides her own doctor – if birth control is ‘right’ for her. For those of you that know her work may have a very good idea of what to expect with “Trainwreck.” In this movie the story is about Amy, a successful Manhattan career woman who fears commitment… when it comes to dating men. Having Amy filling these shoes is very refreshing to see since it’s been done to death with the opposite gender in these dilemmas. Saturday Night Live alumni Bill Hader plays Aaron, a sports doctor that becomes Amy’s love interest in the film. A promising funny bit about Aaron is that he hangs out with one of his clients, NBA superstar LeBron James played by the man himself – and he’s a hoot to watch from the trailers alone. Casting Hader as Aaron opposite Amy is an excellent move considering he’s got comic gifts of his own that can match up with Amy’s. He’s worked with the director, Judd Apatow, many times before by appearing in his films and he never fails to give you a good chuckle. Apatow’s credits include “The 40 Year-Old Virgin,” “Knocked Up,” “Funny People,” “This Is 40” and producing other films such as “Bridesmaids,” “Superbad,” “Forgetting Sarah Marshall,” the award winning series “Girls” among many other hits. This will mark his first directing effort for a film he didn’t write because Miss Schumer herself wrote the script. The man has a knack for noticing good comic material especially when it comes to talented actors and comedians that show promise – even if no one else can see it. Having Schumer and Apatow working together like this could prove to be a dangerous mix for the sake of your sides… from laughing that is. To prepare myself to see this film, I’m going to do a great deal of sit-ups at the gym before I head to the theater just to be safe.

Amy Schumer:

Miss July 2015

of the movies

Photo courtesy of Bigstock

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.

CROSSROADS | JULY 2015

For the Love of Food

Perfect picnic picks Perk up your next picnic with these deliciously different sandwiches and salads that are super easy to prepare, plus they can be made ahead. Condiments make the difference between a good sandwich and a great sandwich. Grab a jar of Aunt Nellie’s Sliced Pickled Beets. Their sweet-tangy homemade flavor makes them a perfect base for quick relish to embellish all kinds of sandwiches. For a Greek-inspired relish, chop and toss the beets with marinated artichoke hearts and olives. Add to a basic turkey sandwich for a gourmet twist. Wrap up brunch favorites smoked salmon and cream cheese in a flour tortilla with a chopped pickled beet-red onion-caper relish. Delicious any time! Pantry staples, such as READ 3 or 4 Bean Salad and German Potato Salad, are handy head starts to fabulous salads. A can of bean salad, cooked tortellini, veggies and basil pesto make a picnic-perfect salad in minutes. German potato salad paired with grainy mustard and sliced steak becomes a rustic entree salad to serve atop convenient packaged greens. Patio party or potluck in the park, these new picnic picks will bring compliments.

Servings: 6 Preparation Time: 20 minutes Ingredients: 1 jar (16 ounces) Aunt Nellie’s Sliced Pickled Beets 1 jar (about 6 ounces) marinated artichoke hearts 1/2 cup pitted kalamata or ripe olives, sliced 3 tablespoons sliced green onions Freshly ground black pepper to taste 6 romaine lettuce leaves 1 pound thinly sliced deli turkey 6 ciabatta or sandwich rolls, sliced horizontally in half 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted

Directions: Drain beets and artichoke hearts, reserving 1/4 cup liquid from each. Coarsely chop beets and artichoke hearts. Combine beets, artichokes, olives and green onions in medium bowl; set aside.

Picnic-Wiches With Greek Artichoke-Beet Relish

Whisk together reserved beet and artichoke liquids in small bowl. Pour over beet mixture; toss gently to coat. Season with black pepper, if desired. Layer lettuce and turkey on bottom halves of rolls. Top with relish, feta cheese and pine nuts.

Servings: 6 Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 10 minutes Ingredients: 2 cans (15 ounces each) READ 3 or 4 Bean Salad 1/4 cup prepared basil pesto 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional) 1 package (9 ounces) refrigerated tortellini, any variety Directions: Drain bean salad; reserve 1/2 cup liquid. Combine reserved liquid, pesto and salt, if desired; set aside.

Cook tortellini according to package directions; drain, rinse in cold water and drain again. Add pesto dressing; toss to coat. Add stir-ins if desired. Toss with bean salad.

Note: Recipe can be doubled. Optional Stir-Ins: grape tomatoes or halved cherry tomatoes, chopped bell pepper and thinly sliced green onion

Ingredients: 1 jar (16 ounces) Aunt Nellie’s Sliced Pickled Beets 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion 1–2 tablespoons capers 1–2 teaspoons lemon zest 1/2 cup spreadable chive cream cheese 2 large soft flour tortillas (10–12-inch diameter) 8 slices smoked salmon 1/2 cup baby spinach leaves Directions: Drain beets; chop. Discard beet liquid. In medium bowl, combine beets, onion, capers and lemon zest.

Ingredients: 1 can (15 ounces) READ German Potato Salad 2 tablespoons coarse ground Dijonstyle mustard 1/2 pound boneless top sirloin steak, cut 1 inch thick 1 bag (10 ounces) hearts of romaine lettuce Directions: Stir together potato salad and mustard in medium bowl; set aside.

Bean, Tortellini & Pesto Salad

Serve at room temperature or chilled.

Servings: 4 Preparation Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4 Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Top with remaining halves of rolls. Wrap tightly; chill up to 4 hours until ready to serve. Serve with remaining relish.

Spread 1/4 cup cream cheese evenly over each tortilla, leaving 1-inch border. Place 4 salmon slices over cream cheese; press lightly. Top each with spinach. Sprinkle beet mixture evenly over spinach.

Smoked Salmon & Beet Wraps

Roll up. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate up to 4 hours. To serve, remove plastic wrap; cut each tortilla into 2 pieces.

Note: Can be made with other meats.

Heat medium nonstick skillet over medium heat until hot. Place steak in skillet and cook about 15 minutes until medium rare doneness (145°F); turn occasionally. Cool steak. Carve diagonally across grain into 1/4-inch-thick slices; reserve. Just before serving, gently toss steak with potato salad. Serve over greens. Note: Recipe can be doubled.

Steak & German Potato Salad JULY 2015 | CROSSROADS

Photo Op

St. Louis Renaissance Faire Photographer Ray Rockwell ventured back to the age of swords and chivalry at the St. Louis Renaissance Faire that ran weekends from May 16 â€“ June 24 at Rotary Park in Wentzville. The annual event features all manner of vendors, costumes, food, music and weaponry from the Middle Ages. Photos By Ray Rockwell

CROSSROADS | JULY 2015

Community Calendar

July: 3 – Independence Day Observed 4 – Independence Day 4 – Firecracker Run The O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce is proud to host the 31st Annual USATF Certified Firecracker Run presented by Mercy on July 4 in O’Fallon. The race begins at 7 a.m. and consists of a 10K, 5K and a 1 Mile Fun Run. The event will begin at the T.R. Hughes Ball Park located in O’Fallon at 900 T.R. Hughes Blvd. After the race, stick around the ballpark for the 2015 Heritage & Freedom Fest parade by the city of O’Fallon starting at 9:30 a.m. The cost of event is $25 for early registration for the 10K and 5K run and $30 after May 31st. The early registration for the 1 Mile Fun Run is $15 or $20 after May 31st. You can register online at www.FirecrackerRun.net. There will be race day registration from 6 a.m. until 6:30 a.m. July 4th at the event. 12 – Car/motorcycle cruise and swap meet The Saint Charles Lions Club will host a car/ motorcycle cruise and swap meet at McNair Park located at 3100 Droste Rd. in St. Charles from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. The event will help support BackStoppers Inc. and other local charities.

Entry fee for car cruise and swap meet participants is $5 and a can of food for the Oasis Food Pantry or the St Charles Animal Shelter. Event is free to the public, 50/50, raffle prizes, music, bar-b-q, and adult beverages sold in the park. Contact Art Raymo at 636-4411831for further information. Dash plaque for the first 100 entries. 12 – Vacation bible school EVEREST VBS at The United Methodist Church at Wentzville runs from July 12 through July 16. VBS is for children 3 years through 5th grade (as of the 2015-16 school year), and it’s free and open to the public. Registration each night is at 5:30 pm and VBS runs from 6-8 p.m. The United Methodist Church at Wentzville is located at 725 Wall Street in Wentzville. For more information, please call 636-327-6377. Register at www. livelovegrow.org. 17 – Movie in the park Grab your lawn chairs and blankets and head out to Boulevard Park Amphitheater in Lake Saint Louis to enjoy Movies in the Park. “Frozen” (rated PG) begins at dusk. Approximately 8:30 p.m.

19 – Golf scramble Grab your clubs and get ready to hit the links for the Cornerstone United Methodist Church golf scramble at the St. Peters Golf Course. The shot gun start will be at 1:30 p.m. so plan to arrive at the course by 1 p.m. St. Peters Golf Course is located at 200 Salt Lick Road and their number is 636397-2227 if you have any course questions. The $40 per person registration fee, along with the names and numbers of your team, are due to Dawn Gerard in the Cornerstone office no later than Sunday, June 28. You can download the registration form at www. umcornerstone.org/coming-up. Your registration fee of $40 covers your 18 holes of golf, golf cart and prize money for the winner(s). If you have any questions about the golf scramble or any other events going on at Cornerstone UMC you can call the office at 636-379-5334 or check out the website at www. umcornerstone.org. 25 – Concert in the park Come enjoy a night of great music and dancing with Fan Fare from 7 – 10 p.m. at Wind Jammer Point in Lake Saint Louis. Feel free to bring your chairs, food and beverages. Glass is prohibited. 26 – Parents’ Day

JULY 2015 | CROSSROADS

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