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Preserving history on the

Katy Trail

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CROSSROADS | SEPTEMBER 2015

September 2015 contents

VOL 12 | NO 9

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

Simon Says Yay for teachers!

Always an Adventure Morning boil

Moore on Life Big things come in small towns

*Correction: In the feature story in the August 2015 edition of CrossRoads titled “Missouri’s hidden gem” Cuivre River State Park was incorrectly identified as having a size of 6,400 square miles. Cuivre River State Park is 6,400 square acres. Community News regrets the error.

Publisher Robert Huneke

Automobile Alley 2016 Scion iA is small, sporty and made-to-order

Editor Mathew DeKinder

Production Manager Rebecca Brockmann

Business Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce

Entertainment The quirk-free version of Johnny Depp

Food Olive oil offers nutrition, flexibility

Photo Op St. Louis Rams training camp

Community Calendar: September

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

features

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Nonprofit Profile Alzheimer’s Association, St. Louis Chapter Preserving history on the Katy Trail Landmark general store, the Peers Store, is given a new lease on life By: Brett Auten

Advertiser Profiles RVs enjoying record year in 2015 By Russ Patton

Preparing for student loans By Robin Daniels On the Cover: Photo courtesy Tom Uhlenbrock/Missouri Division of Tourism

SEPTEMBER 2015 | CROSSROADS

Around Town

DAR to find and mark patriots’ graves The Caroline Close Stuart Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) are looking for Revolutionary War Patriot graves in the Warren County area. A part of the mission of the DAR is to find and mark the graves of the men and women who helped to found our country. The National Society accomplishes the majority of its work under a committee system which floats down to the community level through the local chapters. 100 years ago the Missouri DAR surveyed the state and marked a number of these graves. Since that time many more Revolutionary War veterans have been documented throughout the country and the state. However, finding and marking their graves remains a major job for local chapters. “We need the residents and land owners of Warren County to help us find veterans of

the American Revolution and their graves that may be located on their property”, Chapter Regent Wisner said. “We want to make sure these men and women’s role in our country is never forgotten. Marking their graves insures their final resting place is recognized and maintained.” The DAR’s mission is to promote historic preservation, education and patriotism. Any woman 18 years or older, regardless of race, religion, or ethnic background, who can prove lineal descent from a patriot of the American Revolution is eligible to join the DAR. For more information about the DAR or residents who have information about the graves project may contact Regent, Karen Wisner at 636-244-3461. You may also find information about the local DAR chapter on the web at http://www.mssdar.org/ccstuart.

Submitted photo Cathy Durand, Karen Wright and Karen Wisner, Chapter Regent, stand by the grave of Revolutionary War Patriot John Chambers.

Cuivre River Electric CYCLE delegates visit Missouri Capitol One hundred six high school students from across Missouri recently participated in the Cooperative Youth Conference and Leadership Experience (CYCLE) program held July 15-17, in Jefferson City. Local delegates sponsored by Cuivre River Electric Cooperative (CREC) were Emily Baalman, Dardenne Prairie; Clare Citrowske, O’Fallon; Rebecca Purcell, St. Charles; Delaney Schmidt, Defiance; and Sarah Turner of Foristell. The CYCLE program is conducted by the Association of Missouri Electric Cooperatives (AMEC) and is a recipient of the National Community Youth Service award presented by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association for the top youth program among all electric cooperatives in the country. Since 2004, AMEC has hosted more than 900 high school sophomore and junior students from Missouri’s 47 electric distribution and transmission cooperatives. The three-day program provided an action-filled experience for the students, offering them opportunities to learn firsthand what it’s like to be involved in politics, community service, today’s pressing issues, the cooperative form of business and being a leader. Highlights included a special edu-

CROSSROADS | SEPTEMBER 2015

cational session in the Missouri House Chamber at the Missouri State Capitol to discuss the process of local, state and national government. “These students are an example of the many talented people who live in Missouri. I am pleased that these students are aware of the importance of staying Photo courtesy Cuivre River Electric Cooperative active, involved in (From left) Rebecca Purcell, St. Charles; Emily Baalman, Dardenne Prairie; Delaney Schmidt, Defiance; Clare community proj- Citrowske, O’Fallon; and Sarah Turner of Foristell in front of the Missouri State Capitol. The delegates, sponby Cuivre River Electric Cooperative, traveled to Jefferson City July 15-17 to attend the Cooperative ects and leaders in sored Youth Conference and Leadership Experience. their respective high and Missouri history and competed in a vaschools,” said U.S. Congressman Blaine Luetkemeyer. “I’m ex- riety of leadership and team building events. tremely proud of each of the students, and Highlights included keynote speeches from I’m glad they had an opportunity to visit Rachel’s Challenge, founded by the father of the Missouri State Capitol to expand their Rachel Scott who was tragically killed in the Columbine High School shooting in 1999. knowledge and develop as future leaders.” The CYCLE delegates attended education- The CYCLE delegates were challenged to al seminars and learned about cooperative make a positive difference in their schools business principles, electricity, American and communities.

Around Town

O’Fallon woman receives honor from St. Louis Archdiocese Mary Ann Huber, who with her husband William founded Twin Oaks Senior Living from their home in O’Fallon, received the St. Louis Archdiocese Comforter/Nurturer Award during the 2015 Catholic Women’s Recognition Ceremony on Aug. 2. The event each year honors Catholic women who have inspired others through their unique and vital contributions both to the church in St. Louis and the broader community. Huber was nominated by Sarah Beams, director of lay pastoral ministry at Assumption Parish, where the Huber family has been parishioners for decades. Huber received her award from St. Louis Archbishop Robert J. Carlson and Archdiocese Chancellor Nancy Werner. The

Submitted photo

ceremony was held at St. Joseph Parish in Manchester. Her daughters Kim Bauer and Kathy Blattel and her extended family were in attendance to celebrate with her.

East-West Gateway approves transportation improvement projects for St. Charles County On July 29, the East-West Gateway Council of Governments approved the 2016-2019 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). The documents will become effective Oct. 1 pending state and federal approvals. The TIP is a schedule of transportation improvements planned by various agencies in the St. Louis metropolitan area. Projects in the TIP have been given priorities based on, and are consistent with, the region’s long-range transportation plan. St. Charles County Executive Steve Ehlmann serves on the East-West Gateway Board and voted to approve the plan. “Expanding and improving the safety of our transportation infrastructure is a top priority for County Government, especially with the growth of our community” said Ehlmann. “I would like to thank the East-West Gateway Board, the Missouri Department of Transportation and the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission for their partnership and support of our goals.” Projects of note in the TIP include: * I-70 at Fifth Street: Funding for a joint project between St. Charles County, the city of St. Charles, and the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) for interchange improvements at Fairgrounds Road and Fifth

Street at I-70. The project includes construction of new ramps from I-70 to Fairgrounds Road and other improvements needed to move traffic and make the busy interchange safer. Construction is anticipated to start in 2016. * Missouri Route 61 and Peine Road: Funding for a joint project between St. Charles County, Wentzville and MoDOT to construct an interchange to improve safety between Missouri Route P and Peine Road off of Missouri Route 61. Construction is anticipated to start in early 2018. * I-70 from Woodlawn Ave. to T.R. Hughes Blvd.: Funding for a joint project between St. Charles County, O’Fallon, and MoDOT to convert outer roads to one-way and revise interchanges as part of the I-70 Traffic Flow Improvements Project. Construction is anticipated to start in late 2017. * Intersection of Hopewell Road and Duello Road on Route N: Funding for safety improvements to improve sight distance and safety. The project will be constructed by the St. Charles County Highway Department and is anticipated to start in 2018. The entire TIP can be viewed online at www. ewgateway.org<http://www.ewgateway.org.

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SEPTEMBER 2015 | CROSSROADS

Simon Says

September - The dreaded month that school is back in session and You see grading papers is not something that is done in the classin full swing until summer. I see the looks on kids’ faces – “I don’t room. Grading papers is done after the last bell rings, after the kids want to go back! Summer wasn’t long enough!” Then I see the look on go home, and after the teachers’ full day is finished. Take into acparents’ faces – “AHHHHH! It’s finally time for school to start! Sum- count that the amount of hours spent on grading papers equals to mer is finally over!” A little mixed emosome people’s full time jobs. When tion about the start of the school year a teacher is finished on Friday afbetween parents and their child(ren). ternoon and the kids head home You know what I rarely ever hear for the weekend, that teacher still about though? The teachers. I have alhas anywhere from 8-50 additional ways wondered about their thoughts hours spent outside the classroom, as the new school year approaches. spent away from their family on the As someone who has previously weekend, and spent away from doworked in the school setting, I know ing something they enjoy, instead of all too well the dreaded “back to focusing on 100 children and the paschool” words that teachers hate pers that need to be graded. hearing. And why wouldn’t they Does your child have an amazing dread going back to work when the teacher? Then say thank you! I will majority of this world refers to never forget the most influential our teachers merely as “Glorified teacher I had. It was third grade ”As a teacher you never “go home” for the evening. I’m Babysitters?” I mean, wouldn’t and I was nervous about learnconstantly worried if some students will eat or have a warm you just want to jump for joy to ing multiplication tables. Addiplace to sleep. I think about my students and their well-being return to a position where peotion and subtraction were for 24/7, the same as I do my own children.” ple mock your work? Four years, the birds but this multiplication Mindy Iezzi – 2nd grade teacher or more, of college, years of tustuff looked tough. I entered a ition debt, starting salary, budget cuts, program cuts - oh what a new class that year with a teacher name Roxanne Rohlfing and still to glorious place to work! this day I refer to her as my best and most favorite teacher. I have never I wish that everyone knew the struggle that teachers go through on had a teacher before, or after that, who made learning so much fun. a daily basis. Their position is not a nine-month out of the year, eight- Her positive attitude, energetic lesson plans and all around care for the hour-a-day job; it is a position that makes you work nights, weekends students in her classroom did not go unnoticed. Mrs. Rohlfing has since and all summer long. It is a position that makes you worry about the retired but that doesn’t mean I can’t send a huge shout out to her for children in your classroom. It is a position that makes you stay awake her lasting impressions on my younger years in school. Roxanne Rohlfat night, fearing you don’t have the funds to be successful through ing – thank you for all that you did for each and every student you the year; as most teachers end up using their own personal money for taught over the years. Thank you for teaching us with such love and classroom necessities. It is a position that includes not only contact fun that I still to this day remember learning my multiplication tables with the students in their classroom but also with the parents and by watching monkeys go up the ladder. You are adored by many and administrators. I have many friends and family that are in the teach- your years of hard work left an amazing impact on so many students. ing profession and I tip my hat to them all. I salute each and every teacher out there as your work does not go While researching a few things for this article, I ran across this ex- unnoticed. Thank you for being a parent to the children in your classample via a “We Are Teachers” website of what it takes for a teacher room while they are in your care. Thank you for taking your own perto grade student papers. sonal time to grade papers. Thank you for staying late because a child This simple chart shows at a glance how much time it takes a teacher in your class refused to do his or her homework and received a detento grade one set of papers. This work usually cannot be done in class tion because of it. Thank you for choosing a career path that enables because students need the teacher’s attention for a variety of reasons you to serve others. Thank you for being you, a teacher! good and bad: answering the same questions many times, keeping by LAURIE Simon student’s on-task, and discipline.

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

CROSSROADS | SEPTEMBER 2015

Nonprofit Profile

Alzheimer’s Association, St. Louis Chapter: providing help and hope for those affected in the 38-county service area

Submitted photo

The 2014 Walk to End Alzheimer’s.

The Alzheimer’s Association, St. Louis Chapter, is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for all persons affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders through comprehensive educational programs, compassionate services, access to resources and support for research. Nationally, there are more than 5 million people living with Alzheimer’s with a new case developing every 67 seconds. Locally, more than 110,000 people in Missouri are living with the disease. The symptoms of Alzheimer’s include gradual memory loss, disorientation, a decline in the ability to perform routine tasks, loss of language skills, impaired judgment and personality changes. Eventually people with Alzheimer’s become incapable of caring for themselves. The first link for families is the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline, 800-272-3900, a telephone support service that provides easily accessible, direct information about the disease. Staffed by highly trained vol-

unteers, many with first-hand experience, Helpline volunteers provide a listening ear, understanding and resources on how to cope with the disease. Volunteers also provide ongoing follow-up assistance with families, and offer caregiving tips and information throughout the course of the disease, which can last from two to 20 years. In addition, chapter services include support groups, care consultations, respite care assistance, programs for early diagnosed persons and the Safe Return identification program. Education programs include “Know the 10 Signs” classes, family seminars and training for health-care professionals. To support the programs and services provided, the Alzheimer’s Association St. Louis Chapter hosts the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s. The Walk to End Alzheimer’s is more than a walk. It is an experience for the nearly 12,000 participants around St. Louis who will learn about Alzheimer’s disease and how to get

involved with this critical cause, from advocacy opportunities, the latest in Alzheimer’s research and clinical trial enrollment to support programs and services. Each walker will also join in a meaningful ceremony to honor those affected by Alzheimer’s disease. There are eight Walk’s in the area, including St. Louis, St. Charles, Washington, Rolla, Festus, Cape Girardeau, Edwardsville and Belleville. The St. Louis Walk to End Alzheimer’s will take place on Sept. 12 at the Scottrade Center. The St. Charles event will be held on Sept. 26 at St. Charles Community College. For more information about Alzheimer’s disease, Walk to End Alzheimer’s or more visit alz.org/stl or call 800-272-3900.

SEPTEMBER 2015 | CROSSROADS

Always An Adventure Editor’s note: Avalanche suffers from nasty migraines, the result of a career-ending eye injury. This was written several years ago, when things were quite difficult. I awaken a few minutes after 5 a.m.; it’s still dark outside. The all-too-familiar railroad spike driving through my eyeball and brain is mercifully absent. A cup of coffee and a little exercise get the blood moving. A layer of fleece to ward off the early morning wind chill, and on goes the riding suit. I grab helmet, gloves, glasses and key, and double check the registration and insurance. I roll the twowheeled race-replica out of the garage, thumb the starter and the motor begins its day with a rough idle. After a couple of minutes, the idle smoothes out; I get on, click it into first gear, roll up the driveway and make my way down the washboard gravel road to the highway. Someone in a hurry for work pulls up right behind me, impatient for me to be out of their way. It will be the last traffic I hold up this morning. After a right turn onto the highway, the motor winds up. I shift into second gear, already up to highway speed, then third. No need to run hard here, as tires, shocks, motor and brain all need time to warm up. The first four curves behind me, the road opens up into a stunning morning view of mountains and meadows. It is plenty light out now, but the sun is still behind the mountain for another hour or so, giving me time to play, before that burning orb rises in the

east and sears a hole in my brain, driving me to the cool, dark refuge of the basement. Just past the Castle, a rocky cliff on the inside of a 90-degree right-hander announces the entrance to the canyon. Visibility is the limiting factor on speed here, as the corner is blind. Just as I set up for the entrance to the corner, two vehicles come around the curve, both well into my lane. I’m rewarded

Morning boil

for my cautious approach, as there is plenty of time and space for me to avoid their lack of lane awareness. Hazards avoided, I bring the motor up to a rolling boil. A combination of a hard lean and moderate throttle brings me through the apex, my senses now dialed all the way up. I accelerate out of the curve, then back off, engine braking preparing the way for the next 90-degree left-hander. This corner is not blind, and there are no other drivers, pedestrians, driveways, bus stops, or other hazards to impede progress. The corner goes fast, the tires providing enough adhesion to make good use of the plentiful

horsepower on hand. I bring it down a couple of notches, passing a subdivision access road, then set up for another 90-degree right. The pavement is a little rougher here, but is good enough for a deep lean. Lots of throttle here, then back off, and power up again, through a hard left as the highway runs by a roadside waterfall. No gravel in the road today by this popular turnout, so more throttle. The curves open up a bit now, providing a good sight-line through the canyon. There is no other traffic, and I’m totally in the moment, running the bike hard with perfect concentration. Speed, power and balance meld together in a high velocity symphony. Pain, anxiety, frustration and fear disappear behind me along with the blurred scenery. The rush of speed and adrenaline is exhilarating. For this one totally engaging moment, everything is perfect. I exit the canyon and the spell is broken. A few more miles and a U-turn bring me back to the canyon. The throttle is opened, but with more restraint. Skid marks and a stain of vehicle fluids on the pavement mark the location of yesterday’s sirens. Someone’s moment was not perfect; perhaps a lack of concentration, or a rock falling at precisely the wrong moment. This highway is beautiful, exhilarating and deadly; the penalty for failure is marked by the crossed skid marks on the pavement, the flowers at the roadside memorial. Much pain has been experienced here. But today, this place has given me relief from it. The ride plays out with a nice, moderate run through the corners, a quick pass around a dawdling truck and an easy couple miles back home. As the sun comes out, I smile, knowing that I’ve won today’s battle. 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 | SEPTEMBER 2015

Big

Moore On Life

things come in small towns

Big cities don’t have anything on good ol’ small towns. Our family recently vacationed in Marysvale, Utah – population: very tiny. How tiny you ask? So tiny its entire phone book fits on one sheet of paper…it’s called a phone paper. It’s so small that it doesn’t even have a stoplight yet. Of course, it’s not needed; the people waving from their porches and yards are enough to keep the traffic slowed down to an even pace. It used to have a movie theater back in the heyday when the small mining town was booming. Now, another nighttime event collects crowds of watchers. One evening, we carried our lawn chairs out and circled around. Nearing twilight, the main attraction began. From out of the roof top, bats began emerging, dropping down and fluttering about like disoriented butterflies on a sugar high; whirling, twirling and swirling and dive bombing just above our heads. Talk about an action-packed event. We never knew whether to drop, tuck and roll or run for cover. It got more screams out of us than any b-list horror movie could hope for. The only store in town is Tug’s gas station. This is the hub of the community, where the gossips gather. The old retired men assemble each morning to disperse the news of the day – better known as the town’s Internet. The lead story is the price of gas followed by subtopics which include, the skunk that broke into Violet Gibbs’ chicken coop and the sack of garbage strewn all over Darvill Heber’s lawn, courtesy of a marauding raccoon. If you need a gallon of milk, a loaf of bread or maybe a dozen eggs from Tugs, you’re in luck. If you forgot to load up on fresh produce from the next town over—40 minutes away, you may have to rely on a makeshift farmer’s market in the neighborhood and hope someone set out a basket of zucchini or tomatoes for sale. You’ll see a Mason jar next to it with a “make your own change” sign attached. The transportation of choice is ATVs. They’re all over the place since the famous Paiute off-road trail runs right next door. You’ll hear them chugging through town at all hours. People leave them out in the open. You never have to worry about crime. Law-breaking equates to some young rascal flooring his machine and spitting gravel all over the place. That’s considered rude and could get you a stern “talking to” for such a misdemeanor. That kind of reckless hooliganism is saved for the trails high up in the Tushar Mountains. Down in the city, keeping the peace is an unwritten rule and civility still rules the day. We happened to arrive as the town celebrated Pioneer Days with a parade. The kids’ grandpa, a Korean Veteran, led the parade alongside the other honored Veterans of the community. The day continued at the fairgrounds and began with the national anthem and a prayer – something so simple and pleasant that the atheists didn’t even protest. Then on to the rodeo; that’s where brassy cowboys pay good money to climb on board an agitated 1,000-lb hunk of hair and hooves

and see if they can teach it some manners. Too many horses are unteachable and give the rider an embarrassing taste of country dust. They saunter away with their chaps between their legs, black and blue from shoulder to shin hanging onto their Stetsons and what’s left of their bruised egos. Failure’s a hard thing to handle for these country boys, especially after being out-ridden by the mutton-busters. These are kids a third of their age who cling on tighter than a tick to the woolly backs of giant sheep. They’re set loose and ride until they fall off or pass the six-second mark. Afterwards, the little cowboys and girls head for the outdoor cement pavilion, which has been flooded and transformed into a pond loaded with freshwater trout. The fish derby begins with splashing and dashing and little fingers chasing after slick fish while the kids shrieks when contact is actually made with the slippery skin. Later, dinner is looped around their fingers through the gills and ready to be filleted. All too soon it’s time to dodge traffic and head back to deadlines and drudgery, but we take along sweet memories of Marysvale. 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.

SEPTEMBER 2015 | CROSSROADS

Preserving history on the

Katy Trail

Landmark general store, the Peers Store, is given a new lease on life By Brett Auten Dan and Connie Burkhardt weren’t going to let a slice of history just fade into oblivion. The Burkhardts believe deeply in the beauty and heritage of the lower Missouri River valley. Among their many adventures, they founded the Katy Land Trust, which encourages landowners to preserve the farms and fields along the Katy Trail from development. When Peers Store closed its doors for good in 2012, the future of the historic general store was bleak.

CROSSROADS | SEPTEMBER 2015

But the Burkhardts swooped in and along with a little help, and coinciding with the 25th year of the Katy Trail, Peers Store reopened in June. “We had a terrific open house with about 400 people here,” Dan Burkhardt said. “We tried to preserve it so it wouldn’t get knocked down. We have some fun things planned here for the future.” Peers Store has a long history tied with the Missouri River and the Missouri-Kansas-Texas (MKT) Railroad, also known as “The Katy.” The white, two-story general store, which got its name from a

Warren County judge, was built in 1896, just three miles west of Marthasville and over time became a landmark along the agricultural fields of the lower Missouri River valley. The store sold groceries and farm supplies and its riverfront location also proved ideal, at least until 1903 when the Missouri River shifted two miles south. Linus and Loretta Glosemeyer, bought the store in 1940 and the family ran it until 2012, when it closed. It did a good amount of business until the 1970s, when sales began to slow. Sitting squat in the Missouri River floodplain, the store was often under the threat of rising waters. Floods in 1941, 1951, 1993 and 1995 proved especially devastating and when the closing of the MKT in the 1980s came, things grounded to a halt. The Burkhardts, who own a farm and vineyard in Marthasville, purchased the building last year and began sprucing it up. They replaced the flood-damaged floor and put fresh paint white paint where needed. “The store was an integral part of the community for many years,” Burkhardt said. “It was known for its sandwiches. We have people ask us all the time when are we going to start selling the egg or fried bologna sandwich.” From June to November, Peers Store, located 10 minutes west of Washington, will be open on Saturday’s and Sunday’s from noon to 4 p.m. Its main goal now is to become a pit stop for riders and walkers enjoying the Katy Trail State Park. The time-capsule charm of Peers Store is apparent and it offers Katy Trail users and local residents a place to rest and kickback on the shaded porch. As of now the store has a limited menu of sorts with a soda machine and sometimes ice cream, but things will change. Inside the store today you will find the artwork and photography of Missouri’s best artists including; Bill Fields, Bryan Haynes, Gary Lucy, Billyo O’Donnell and Julie Wiegand. “We’re trying to support these Missouri artists who are nationally known and we think live music is a great way to use the place,” Burkhardt said. Beginning in September, a full slate of live music will be on tap on the porch. “The communities around here need more activity on the trail,” Burkhardt said. “With the live music we are hoping that this is something to build off of.” Photos by Ray Rockwell Artist Bill Fields stands with some of the artwork on display inside of Peers Store.

From June to November, Peers Store, located 10 minutes west of Washington on the Katy Trail, will be open on Saturday’s and Sunday’s from noon to 4 p.m.

SEPTEMBER 2015 | CROSSROADS

2016 Scion iA

is small, sporty and made-to-order It was some 12-years ago when Toyota Motors launched their Scion Automotive line in the United States. Their business model was to offer personal-size vehicles marketed towards a select customer base that included first-time buyers and younger motorists. Their business model was to make them available to consumers with dealer installed “post assembly addon’s” for personalizing their beloved means of transportation, regardless of the model. Cars would arrive here stateside-all equipped about the same from the factory with the exception of body colors and transmission choices. From there, the dealer network would get busy making “your Scion” as unique as possible with back-room/bolt-on accessories. Well, this business direction even continues today. As a matter of fact, when ordering the all-new 2016 Scion iA four door, front-wheeldrive sedan, the car can only be requested with a choice of the outer body color you prefer and the choice of a six speed manual gear box or a six speed automatic. The iA’s are jointly engineered, developed and manufactured in conjunction with Mazda Motors at their assembly facility located in Mexico. The vehicle itself has a front end design that clearly resembles a new Camry, but in miniature. The iA is bold in appearance while having a fairly elongated hood, a short rear deck assembly and sculpted body side stampings with a distinctive character about it. The Scion iA has a quality interior materials throughout. It’s designed to seat five; however, back seat comfort maybe somewhat compromised with full-size adults. From the driver’s seat position there is plenty of unobstructed viewing of the road and your surroundings. The dash assembly is easy to understand and its layout is simplistic. I will add though, right out of the Mazda design play-book, the standard push button start button is completely obstructed by the wiper control stock, as we see this exact problematic issue with the Mazda CX-5 SUV.

CROSSROADS | SEPTEMBER 2015

The glove box is fairly large for stowing your things but when it opens, it doesn’t have any damping system, therefore if you aren’t cautious, it will smack the front seat passenger right on their knees! The cars performance is quite spirited for its small 1.5L DOHC direct injected 4-cylinder, 16-valve engine. It’s rated at 106-horsepower and the EPA numbers are 33-mpg city and 42mpg highway with the automatic transmission. When equipped with the manual gear box, expect 31-mpg city and 41-mpg highway, slightly less fuel efficient than with the automatic. This sedan delivers sporty handling, precise, responsive steering and a progressive positive braking feel when cornering. All models also come with a no-cost, 2-year/25,000-mile maintenance plan and 24–hour Roadside Assistance. The base price is $15,700 when equipped with the six-speed manual. That doesn’t include the posted $795 necessary for destination charges. The factory’s policy is for “no haggle pricing” to further streamline the buying experience. This new iA for 2016 clearly offers up a lot of value for the money. Plan to see it at Scion dealerships nationwide in September. Keep in mind though, only some 80 percent of Toyota dealerships also handle Scion automobiles. 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

Preparing for student loans

RVs enjoying record year in 2015 By Russ Patton, owner of Byerly RV

It is back-to-school season and if you graduated this past spring, this may be the first time in your life you are not returning to school. With the autumn season quickly approaching, you are probably already established in a full-time position or are working as an intern. While you may be enjoying your new job with a steady income, it is only a matter of time before those pesky student loans start to kick in. Making student loan payments can be trying on your finances if you aren’t prepared, so are a few tips on how to properly prepare to pay off your student loans: Tip #1– Organize your loans: If you have a variety of loans (i.e. federal, private) it is important to track down the basic information about each loan. Check for the start date of the payments, how much you owe and what your monthly payments will look like. Tip #2 – Talk with your loan provider: Start the relationship with your loan servicer now by updating your contact information and discussing any questions you have with your loans. Developing a positive relationship now will help build accountability and respect between you and your loan servicer. Tip #3 – Explore repayment options: There are a variety of terms and interest amounts that can affect your loan payments. If you recently got a job, this will help you better understand your monthly income and what you can afford each month. Tip #4 – Make a budget: Making a monthly budget is important for endless reasons. But starting a budget during your grace period will help you build good habits as well as get a better picture of what your finances will look like when you start making student loan payments. Getting comfortable with your budget now will ease the shock when student loans kick in. Tip #5 – Relax! If you are preparing to pay your student loans ahead of time, then you’re already ahead of the game. Continue speaking with your loan provider, financial aid office from your university and don’t be afraid to seek advice from your local bank or parents. By Robin Daniels

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

Do you ever feel like your car is on autopilot? You pull out of the driveway and head for work, school, the mall … everyday just like yesterday? Just imagine that the road in front of your house will lead you to anywhere in the United States. And with an RV you can take your home with you! So turn off the autopilot and turn on your imagination. Autumn is the perfect RV season. The campgrounds are not full, the colors are changing and the weather is comfortable. Every weekend can be a mini vacation. New RV sales have grown almost 20 percent in 2015. Many customers have traded up to new models, so Byerly has a good variety of lower-priced, good quality, pre-owned RVs. No excuse! The Midwest Gateway RV Dealers Association sponsored fall show in September will bring in a new batch of pre-owned RVs. Check out our inventory at www.byerlyrv.com. But realize that many trades are sold before they are listed because our sales people maintain lists of waiting buyers. We realize that websites are only screen deep. We invite you to visit the real Byerly RV on I-44, just five minutes east of Six Flags in Eureka, Missouri. Compare not only our vehicle selection, but check out our parts, service and rental areas. Our investment in servicing RV owners “after the sale” is one of the reasons why Byerly is the number one motorhome and number one travel trailer dealer in the St. Louis market area. Visit our website frequently to keep up with current events and sales, or visit our Facebook page. Byerly RV, the center of the RV world.

SEPTEMBER 2015 | CROSSROADS

Business

Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce Chamber hosts six ribbon cutting ceremonies The Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce hosted six ribbon cutting ceremonies for Planet Fitness, McKelvey Homes, Innsbrook, Pinnacle Spine & Sport, Sunrise Donut Café, and Savers Thrift Store.

Innsbrook Resort is located at 1 Aspen Lake Drive in Innsbrook. You can contact them at 636-928-3366 or visit them online at www.innsbrook-resort.com.

Savers Thrift Store is located at 1920 Zumbehl Rd. in St. Charles. You can reach them at 636-925-2850 or visit them online at www.savers.com.

Planet Fitness is located at 99 Wentzville Bluffs Drive in Wentzville. You can contact them at 636-856-1067 or visit them online at www.planetfitness.com. Sunrise Donut Café is located at 714 West Pearce Blvd. in Wentzville. You can reach them at 636-332-2241.

McKelvey Homes – Wyndemere Estates is located at 3 Wyndemere Ct. in Lake St. Louis. You can reach them at 636-332-9884 or visit them online at www.mckelveyhomes.com.

Pinnacle Spine & Sport is located at 2917 Hwy. K, Suite F in O’Fallon. You can reach them at 636-385-6265 or visit them online at www.pinnaclespineandsport.com.

The Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce serves Dardenne Prairie, Lake St. Louis, and Wentzville. The chamber is comprised of over 670 members. If you are interested in having a ribbon cutting at your place of business please contact the chamber. To view pictures & video of these recent ribbon cuttings please visit our Chamber Facebook Page. For more information please call the chamber office at 636-327-6914 or visit the chamber online at http://westernstcharlescountychamber.com. Submitted photos

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CROSSROADS | SEPTEMBER 2015

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Business

Serving Wentzville, Lake St. Louis, and Dardenne Prairie

Masquerade on the Lake The Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce will be hosting a Masquerade on the Lake on Oct. 3. The masquerade will be held at Windjammer Point overlooking the beautiful lake in Lake St. Louis. Windjammer Point is located at 1 Wharf Street in Lake St. Louis. The event will take place from 6 - 10 p.m. Put on your masquerade mask

and join us for a wonderful event! Tickets are only $40 per person. Your ticket will include food, drinks, boat rides, entertainment, music, dancing, lighted balloon artist and more. Get your group of friends, family and neighbors together for a great evening on the lake. For tickets and more information please

Chamber to host Mystery Dinner Theater The Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce is hosting their 5th Annual Mystery Dinner Theater on Oct. 23 and Oct. 24. The cast will be performing two shows each night – “And Then There Was One” and “And Then There Was One, Too” by Michael Druce. The event will be held at the Andrews Academy located at 1701 Feise Road in Lake St. Louis. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the play starts at 7 p.m. Admission is $35 per person. Admission includes dinner, wine, beer, dessert and a wonderful play. For reservations contact the Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce at 636-327-6914 or please visit us online at http://westernstcharlescountychamber.

com. Seating is limited, so please make your reservations early because tickets sell out fast.

call the chamber office at 636-327-6914 or visit us online at http://westernstcharlescountychamber.com. 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.

www.stcharlesconventioncenter.com

www.pbtc.net SEPTEMBER 2015 | CROSSROADS

Entertainment

The quirk-free version of Johnny Depp I will say this up front, if Johnny Depp’s performance as real life criminal Whitey Bulger doesn’t become his greatest shot for an Oscar win this year, then that would be a stunner. “Black Mass” is the movie, set for release on Sept. 18, that tells the true story about the infamous Boston mob criminal who became an FBI informant in order to take down a rival mafia. All eyes will be on his blue eyes - which look scary enough on Depp in all the right ways. There’s nothing quirky about his portrayal, a form we’ve become very familiar with over the years since he incredibly became Captain Jack Sparrow. This time he’s just flat out creepy and terrifying. Seeing him as Bulger, I couldn’t help but think about the straight characters he played throughout his career a form that’s become a rarity in his work. Now I’m not saying that he’s turning to easier roles - definitely not the case. As Bulger, he’s put on a thick Boston accent, along with some serious – yet seamless – makeup work altering

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his looks. This is not a comedic performance, though I’m sure there’s plenty of room for dark humor Depp wouldn’t mind stirring up for thrills (see the first teaser trailer that reveals his wicked personality). He’s the kind of actor that always keeps his choices interesting throughout his career. For nearly two decades he’s already had a solid career before he became superstar in “Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl” in 2003. It was never something he cared too much for in his work, but in the end it was inevitable after all. Here are a couple other examples of more conventional roles Depp took on over the years. “What’s Eating Gilbert Grape” (1993) If there were a role where we see Johnny Depp at his most ‘normal’ – at least to his standards - it would be as Gilbert Grape. Watching his work here, more than twenty years after the film’s release, you realize what a truly well-rounded performer he really is. Gilbert runs the father-figure-less family household with his eldest sister, Amy (Laura Harrington). Together they take care of their teenage sister, Ellen (Mary Kate Shellhardt), teenage brother, Arnie (Leonardo DiCaprio) and their obese mother (Darlene Cates) who hasn’t left the house in seven years. They live in a poor, small town in the Midwest where nothing ever happens. The heart of the story is how well Gilbert takes care of his mentally handicapped brother Arnie. Depp’s portrayal as Gilbert is wisely contained – mixed with some self-coping sarcasm (a Depp specialty here) - because everything in Gilbert’s environment is the opposite of his ‘normality.’ His life gets extra complicated when he falls for an out-of-town visitor, Becky (Juliette Lewis), and finds himself at a crossroads. There’s no argument that it’s DiCaprio’s irresistible performance as Arnie – his first Oscar-nominated performance - that steals every scene he’s in, but it wouldn’t be as special if not for Johnny Depp’s true professionalism of how he carried the film – selflessly – on his shoulders. That’s exactly what Gilbert does with Arnie too. Depp’s Gilbert is a brilliant under-appreciated performance for an under-appreciated

movie that did not make all of its money back for the studio at Paramount. However, the film more than survived over years because of high praises and word-of-mouth. “Public Enemies” (2009) When Johnny Depp took on the role of real life bank-robbing gangster, John Dillinger, the possible path to his casting in “Black Mass” was possibly realized. Depp’s straight-tothe-vest portrayal as Dillinger was a breath of fresh air for him at the time. The movie served as a well-disciplined period-action film for the summer of 2009. Unfortunately, the movie gathered no Academy Award attention that year despite the historical accuracy and shooting locations - particularly the log cabin shoot-out scene filmed at the exact location of the incident. Depp proved to be a pro as a character that posed as a major threat – so much so that you could easily believed he done it many times before, like Robert De Niro or even James Cagney. By Brian GuerRero

Brian Guerrero is a former resident of Los Angeles and a current resident of New York City with extensive experience in front of and behind the camera for film and television.

For the Love of Food

A kitchen staple

Olive oil offers nutrition, flexibility You may be surprised to learn that cooking with olive oil is a simple way to add heart-healthy “good” fats to your diet. In fact, the health benefits, flavor and versatility of olive oil are all good reasons that olive oil is a staple in many kitchens. Not only can you replace other oils in recipes with olive oil (or extra virgin olive oil for added flavor), in many recipes you can also replace butter with olive oil to reduce saturated fat, cholesterol and calories. Studies show that your body absorbs nutrients from greens and vegetables better when they are consumed with a monounsaturated fat such as olive oil. These recipes help you get the most out of your veggies, and enjoy a decadent dessert too. Learn more at www.aboutoliveoil.org.

Serves: 4 Ingredients: 2 romaine hearts, cleaned and leaves separated 4 hard boiled eggs, cut into quarters 25 Haricot Vert/French green beans, blanched 4 Olive Oil Poached Tuna portions, recipe follows 4 yellow potatoes, peeled Salt and pepper to taste 20 Kalamata olives, pitted 12 grape or cherry tomatoes, washed 8 lemon quarters

Olive Oil Poached Tuna with Crisp Romaine Salad

Directions: 1. Prep romaine, eggs and green beans, and chill the day before. Poach tuna and let cool to room temperature. 2. Boil potatoes until tender and drain. Season potatoes with salt and pepper while still hot. Let potatoes cool to room

Serves: 1 Ingredients: 1 large slice peasant bread cut 1/4- 3/8-inch thick, or any type artisan/ crusty bread Extra virgin olive oil Salt and pepper to taste Hidden Vegetable Tomato Sauce, recipe follows Mozzarella, grated Parmesan Reggiano, grated

temperature, cover with plastic and reserve. 3. Arrange romaine, eggs, green beans, olives, tomatoes and potatoes on four dinner plates. Break and flake tuna on top and drizzle with olive oil from poaching. Squeeze one lemon wedge on each plate and season with fresh pepper and salt. Serve with another lemon wedge.

Grilled Flat Bread Pizza with Hidden Vegetable Sauce

Directions: 1. Heat oven to 350°F and heat gas grill or grill pan to medium high. 2. rush bread generously with extra virgin olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill bread crisp on each side and transfer to baking sheet lined with baking paper. Top each slice with tomato sauce. Cover with grated mozzarella and sprinkle with grated parmesan Reggiano.

3. Bake until cheese is melted, about 10-15 minutes. Cut into wedges and serve. Hidden Vegetable Tomato Sauce Ingredients: 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil 2 cups peeled and small diced eggplant 1 cup small diced onion

Olive Oil Poached Tuna Ingredients: 4 tuna portions (5 ounces each) 2 cups extra virgin olive oil Kosher salt to taste Black pepper, freshly ground to taste 3 garlic cloves, minced 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary 4 tablespoons parsley cut in long, thin strips 2 lemons, zested and juiced Directions: Drizzle tuna with extra virgin olive oil. Season tuna generously with salt, pepper, garlic, rosemary, parsley and lemon zest. Place tuna in 12-inch saucepot and cover with extra virgin olive oil and juice of lemons. Heat over moderate heat until tuna poaches to medium rare, approximately 7-10 minutes depending on thickness of tuna. Remove from heat; allow tuna to continue to poach and cool to room temperature.

1 cup small diced carrot 1 cup small diced celery 2-3 garlic cloves, chopped 3 quarts canned crushed tomatoes 2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme 2 tablespoons fresh basil cut in long, thin strips 1-2 dry bay leaves Salt and pepper to taste Directions: In large (5-quart or bigger) thick-bottomed pot, heat extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add eggplant, onion, carrot, celery and garlic, and saute gently (not browning vegetables or garlic) until vegetables start to become tender. Add tomatoes, herbs and bay leaves. Simmer, uncovered, for about 1 hour, then season to taste with salt and pepper. Puree until all vegetables are hidden in tomato sauce. Chill and reserve to make quick pizzas. Freeze unused sauce in smaller portions for future use.

Serves: 6

Garnish with sliced strawberries and mint.

Ingredients: 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 3 tablespoons honey 2 teaspoons Sriracha chili sauce 1 golden pineapple Olive Oil Ice Cream, recipe follows Mint sprigs Sliced strawberries

Olive Oil Ice Cream

Olive Oil Ice Cream with Grilled Pineapple

Directions: 1. Combine extra virgin olive oil, salt, honey and Sriracha. Set aside. 2 Cut top and bottom off pineapple and remove outer skin. Turn pineapple on side and cut even slices about 3/8-inch thick leaving the core in. Place cleaned pineapple slices in large resealable bag, pour marinade over them, and gently rotate

bag to distribute. Marinate overnight or at least 4 hours. 3. Heat charcoal or gas grill for direct grilling. Use sharp round cutter to remove core before grilling, if preferred. (This is optional; you can eat the core and it is easier to grill with it intact.) Brush grill grates and wipe with rag soaked with olive oil. Grill pineapple on each side about 3 minutes. 4. Transfer grilled pineapple to plate and top with scoop of Olive Oil Ice Cream.

Ingredients: 12 ounces heavy cream 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped 2 pinches ground cinnamon 12 ounces milk 1/2 cup egg yolks 1/2-2/3 cup honey 2/3 cup extra virgin olive oil, delicate/fruity flavor profile Directions: In saucepot scald cream, vanilla, cinnamon and milk. In bowl whip yolks and honey. Temper whipped mixture with scalded cream mixture. Pour tempered mixture back into saucepot and cook until it coats the back of a spoon. Don’t boil. Strain mixture and cool. Stir in olive oil. Cool and freeze in ice cream machine.

SEPTEMBER 2015 | CROSSROADS

Photo Op

St. Louis Rams’ training camp Photographer Ray Rockwell strapped on his gear and headed out to the St. Louis Rams’ training camp at Ram’s Park on Aug. 10. Even though he didn’t make the team, Ray did come back with these photos from this annual, open-to-the-public event. Photos By Ray Rockwell

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CROSSROADS | SEPTEMBER 2015

GO!

Community Calendar

September: 7 – Labor Day 7 – Labor Day concert Free Labor Day concert from 7 – 8:15 p.m.at Civic Park, 305 Civic Park Drive in O’Fallon. Pack some refreshments and lawn chairs and head to the Civic Park Bandstand for an evening of standards, pops and music from the movies performed by the O’Fallon Community Concert Band. 11 – Patriot Day 11 – John Denver tribute concert John Denver Tribute Concert will take place from 7 - 9:30 p.m. at Sisters of the Precious Blood Chapel at 204 North Main Street in O’Fallon. Free will offerings to benefit St. Charles Outreach Coalition Against Human Trafficking. For more info email ehogan@ cpps-ofallon.org

26 – Trivia night The St. Charles County Council of the Blind would like to invite everyone to Trivia Night at the O’Fallon Elks Lodge at 1160 Tom Ginnever Avenue in O’Fallon. The doors open at 6 p.m., trivia games start promptly at 7 p.m. Cost is $150 for table of eight in advance, or $20 per person. Beer, soda and light snacks provided. Wine and mixed drinks are available for a nominal charge. Feel free to bring food or snacks. The proceeds will benefit blind and visually impaired individuals throughout the state of Missouri. If you would like to volunteer your time, make a donation, or have any questions, please contact Beverly Kaskadden, 636-561-6947, bkaskadden@centurytel.net or Denny Huff, 636-262-1383 denny@gatewayfortheblind.com. 27 – Gold Star Mother’s Day

12 – Dog swim Pool Paws Dog Swim at Alligator’s Creek Aquatic Center (in Civic Park) at 403 Civic Park Drive in O’Fallon from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Cost is $10 per dog with one person, and $3 for each additional person. Take your pooch to the pool and play games, win prizes and socialize with friendly dogs and owners. The event benefits the Missouri Alliance for Animal Legislation. All dogs must be accompanied by an adult (age 18+) and have written proof of rabies vaccinations. 13 – National Grandparent Day 14 – Rosh Hashana 14 – Golf outing Sts. Joachim & Ann Care Service announce The 11th Annual Golf Outing at Bear Creek Golf Club at 158 Bear Creek Drive in Wentzville. Proceeds go to support the key services this organization provides to Saint Charles, Lincoln, and Warren counties. Cost is $125 for an individual, $500 for a foursome and $30 for those who wish to attend the awards dinner and silent auction only. Registration will start at 11:30 a.m. with a shotgun start at 12:30 p.m. The awards dinner and silent auction will start at 6 p.m. For more information visit www.jacares.org or call 636-441-1302. 18 – National POW/MIA Recognition Day Ceremony National POW/MIA Recognition Day Ceremony will be held at 7 p.m.at O’Fallon Veterans Memorial Walk at 800 Veterans Memorial Parkway in O’Fallon. Please come to this candlelight ceremony dedicated to the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces from all wars who remain missing in action or imprisoned on foreign soil, and to their families who want them home again. 19 – Concert in the park Come enjoy a night of great music and dancing with Butch Wax & the Hollywoods 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. The 2nd Annual Fall Festival is sponsored by the Lake Saint Louis Ambassadors. Alcohol will be served by the Lake Saint Louis Ambassadors, outside alcohol is prohibited. 20 – St. Theodore Fall Festival St. Theodore Church will host a Fall Festival three miles north of Wentzville at 2020 Grothe Road. Family-style dinners will be served from 11:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. Menu features whole hog sausage and sauerkraut, turkey and dressing, mashed potatoes and gravy, corn and applesauce and homemade pies for dessert. Cost for adults is $12, kids are $6, three-and-under are free. Carry outs also available along with booths and games for all. For more information call 636-332-9269. Proceeds benefit St. Theodore Church and School. 23 – Yom Kippur

SEPTEMBER 2015 | CROSSROADS

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4 Convenient LoCations to serve You! Old Monroe Moscow Mills O’Fallon Wentzville 636-655-5601 636-356-4000 636-980-3585 636-332-4906