Out in the wilderness
Living Word 1/12
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CROSSROADS | SEPTEMBER 2016
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SEPTEMBER 2016
contents
VOL 13 | NO 9
Departments
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Around Town Local news and events
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Always an Adventure The art of dodging mudslides
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Moore on Life Nana wars
Published monthly with newsstand circulation to Wentzville and Lake Saint Louis plus newsstands in O’Fallon, Troy, Lake Sherwood and Augusta.
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Publisher Robert Huneke
Automobile Alley ‘Amazing’ 2017 Honda Ridgeline stands out among mid-size pickups
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Editor Mathew DeKinder
Business Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce
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Production Manager Rebecca Brockmann
Entertainment Two directors seeking a big comeback in ‘Hacksaw Ridge’ and ‘Split’
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Food Easy ideas for award-winning desserts
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Medical Memo Teach kids to manage their health care
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Community Calendar: September
Contributors Avalanche, David Finkelstein, Tony Mathews, Cindy Moore, Russ Patton, Laurie Simon 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
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Out in the wilderness Weldon Spring Conservation Area gives visitors a variety of outdoor recreation options in the heart of St. Charles County By Brett Auten
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Nonprofit Profile TEAM Food Pantry celebrates 30 years of service Advertiser Profile RV equals family recreation By Russ Patton
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.
*Correction: In the story “Brewing up Friendship in Wentzville” featured in the August issue of CrossRoads magazine, Brian Nolan was wrongly identified as Brian Nolen. Community News Publications regrets the error. On the Cover: Photo by Ray Rockwell
SEPTEMBER 2016 | CROSSROADS
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Around Town
Holiday Hiring Blitz on September 7, 14, and 24 connects individuals with job opportunities If making extra money for the holidays is on your to-do list, then the Missouri Job Center of St. Charles County has the perfect opportunity for you. The center is hosting the third annual Holiday Hiring Blitz. “It is not too early to get a head start if you are interested in seasonal employment,” said Scott Drachnik, director of the St. Charles County Department of Workforce & Business Development, operator of the Missouri Job Center of St. Charles County. “These jobs are in high demand and employers need to fill the positions quickly. The Holiday Hiring Blitz is a convenient way for job seekers and employers to connect.” The Holiday Hiring Blitz is comprised of two events: - Curbside Packet Pick-Up: From 2-5:30 p.m. Sept. 7 job seekers can drive up to the Missouri Job Center of St. Charles County, located at 212 Turner Blvd. in St. Peters, to pick up packets of information and applications from employers hiring for the holidays. Employers participating in the blitz are hiring for a variety of positions, including food service crew members and managers, cashiers, gifting associates, retail associates and managers, production, manufacturing, packagers, drivers, and more. Some employers also are hiring for full and part-time positions lasting past the holiday season. - Blitz Job Fair: From 4:30-6:30 p.m. Sept. 14 and 9-11 a.m. Sept. 24, job seekers can return to the Missouri Job Center to meet employers and ask questions. Registration is not required for job seekers who want to attend the Holiday Hiring Blitz events. Citizens are welcome to attend one or all events. For more information, please contact Lori Myers at 636-255-6060, ext. 5260, or lmyers@sccmo.org
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Animal group plans to open shelter in Warren County by 2019
An animal welfare group is implementing an aggressive plan to open a shelter in Warren County by 2019. Concerned Citizens for Animal Control, CCAC, is seeking volunteers and donations from individuals and corporate partners in Warren County to fund their efforts. CCAC hopes to raise $100,000 by the end of 2018. The funds will be used to build a new shelter or to buy or rent existing vacant property. Established in 2001, CCAC’s mission is to provide shelter and find homes for stray animals of Warren County, implement spay and neuter programs, educate the community and offer pet training. Currently, animals are fostered in homes and in a few pet stores in the area for adoptions but this is a short-term solution. CCAC has now installed a new animal shelter board to fulfill the plan. Pat Schulze, board president, explained, “There are few laws to help the animals in getting medical care/permanent homes and no large place to use for adoptions and other programs. This shelter would serve that need and also get animal groups working together to help solve the challenges.” The shelter will also actively work to get all adoptable animals homes. “Through our Shelter Challenge we hope to energize our community to action and meet our financial goal and get the shelter built.” Roger Mauzy, Warren County Presiding Commissioner, is also in favor of the plan. “I fully support the efforts of CCAC. Warren County desperately needs an animal shelter and I will assist in whatever legal ways I can and encourage the business community to join the effort.” To reach the group email info@ccacwc.com or by phone call 636456-SPAY (7729).
Around Town
Wentzville announces 10th Annual Soapbox Race: The Hill of Thrills Don’t miss Wentzville’s 10th Annual Soapbox Race – The Hill of Thrills. This long-standing community event offers fun for the whole family. The Hill of Thrills Race features “soapbox” cars, which are donated by local businesses and organizations. This year’s event will take place on Sept. 11 at noon at Progress Park (rainout date: Sept. 18 at noon). This race isn’t fueled by gas or electronics — it’s just simple gravity as the racers compete against the clock. Racers are randomly placed in the cars. Racers must be between 4 and 5 feet tall, weigh between 55 and 120 pounds, and fit comfortably in the car (height and weight
restrictions are due to the construction of the car). A maximum of 200 racers are accepted, so register early! The child must be present at the time of registration, no mail-in registrations accepted. The races take place on Meyer Road in front of Progress Park. The cost is $5 for residents and $8 for nonresidents, by or before Aug. 21. After Aug. 21, the cost will be $10 for residents and $13 for nonresidents. To register, please visit Progress Park Recreation Center, which is located at 968 Meyer Rd. Race-day registrations will be accepted. Please note: due to facility closures registrations will not be accepted Sept. 6-10.
St. Charles County on target to continue four-year positive housing growth trend With 911 new, single-family housing permits issued the first six months of this year, St. Charles County is on pace to continue a four-year trend. More than 1,700 new, single-family homes were built in St. Charles County each year from 2013 – 2015. According to mid-year figures released by the county’s Building and Code Enforcement Division, 2016 looks to be equally as positive in the housing market. Mid-year/year-end permit totals were 939/1,706 in 2015, 932/1,704 in 2014 and 894/1,742 in 2013. Wentzville leads St. Charles County municipalities in new home construction, issuing 343 permits since the beginning of 2016. Second was O’Fallon with 200, followed by St. Charles City at 126. “St. Charles County continues to build about 50 percent of all new, single-family homes in eastern Missouri,” said St. Charles County Executive Steve Ehlmann, citing statistics from the Home Builders Association of St. Louis & Eastern Missouri. “Our community is a destination of choice in the region, offering great housing options,
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good-paying jobs, and award-winning services and amenities.” From 2010 to 2015, 25,000 people moved into St. Charles County, making the county first in the state in population growth, according to the Missouri Census Data Center. Since 2010, Wentzville has issued 2,667 new, single-family home permits. In that same period, 2,066 permits were issued by O’Fallon, 1,378 by St. Peters and 1,131 by St. Charles City.
www.pbtc.net SEPTEMBER 2016 | CROSSROADS
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Around Town
O’Fallon Optimist Club celebrates 30 years The O’Fallon Optimist Club has been serving youth in the community since 1986. They have provided activities like a fishing derby, a Yahtzee bicycle ride and a visit from Santa at the Civic Park building where kids enjoyed activities and got their picture taken with Santa. They helped the city with the Easter breakfast and egg hunt. They have displayed a scene at the Celebration of Lights since it began, and participated in the Fourth of July activities providing kids games and selling popcorn. Cyndy Schwab, president of the O’Fallon Optimist Club, said she has been part of this organization for 29 years now and is proud to have been a part of serving so many youth in the community in so many ways. “I feel I have been blessed to be a part of the activities that bring happiness to so many kids, and to have worked with so many fellow members who do so much for the club. We feel we have a good relationship with the city of O’Fallon, in particular, the staff of the parks department. We have many opportunities for community service in partnership with them and other volunteers.” They provide educational opportunities with scholarships for essay, oratorical, and a communications contest for the deaf and hard
of hearing. They have had safety programs including bicycle safety and conducted helmet fittings. Just this year they offered a program on internet safety titled “The Hidden Dangers of Social Media.” The focus was on cyber bullying. The O’Fallon Junior Optimist Club presented a portion of the program where Tina Meier was the guest speaker. A donation was made to the Megan Meier Foundation. They recognize students who have distinguished themselves through community service with their “Youth Appreciation” program and they honor law enforcement with their “Respect for Law” program. With money raised through fundraisers they contribute backpacks with supplies to the Fort Zumwalt School District for K-8 grade students in need of the help. They also contribute funds to support research to provide a cure for childhood cancer. The Optimist Club invites the public to their open house at the M.K. Branch Library on S. Hwy K on Sept. 8. Stop by anytime between 6-8 p.m. to get acquainted and to help celebrate. There will be displays, prizes, and refreshments.
St. Charles County Police Chief attends White House 21st Century Policing Briefing County Executive Steve Ehlmann and the St. Charles County Police Department (SCCPD) are proud to announce that Chief David L. Todd was invited to the White House to participate in an Aug. 16 briefing on The President’s Task Force on 21st Century Policing Initiative. The Task Force was established in December 2014 to identify best practices and provide recommendations on how policing practices can promote effective crime reduction while building public trust. In May 2015, a final report was released by the task force with recommendations focused on six main topic areas: Building Trust and Legitimacy, Policy and Oversight, Technology and Social Media, Community Policing and Crime Reduction, Officer Training and Education and Officer Safety and Wellness. “I am proud that St. Charles County has been invited to participate in this briefing,” said County Executive Ehlmann. “Chief Todd, his officers, and staff work diligently every day to advance the trusting relationships they have built within our community. We can learn from this initiative, as well as share our best practices with others.” After reviewing the report, Chief Todd said the SCCPD already is implementing many of the recommendations. He considers it a privilege to discuss new ideas to improve community policing with experienced thought leaders who share his devotion to the profession and concern for citizens. “It is my honor to represent the fine men and women of the St. Charles County Police Department and our citizens during this very important conversation on the future of policing,” Chief Todd said. “I look forward to discussing the recommendations
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Submitted photo St. Charles County Police Department Chief David L. Todd was invited to the White House to participate in an Aug. 16 briefing on The President’s Task Force on 21st Century Policing Initiative.
and implications on everyday policing in our community. I am also excited to learn more about new technologies that can advance public safety.” At the briefing, Chief Todd and other attendees met with senior administration officials to discuss the recommendations, share strategies for implementation, and brainstorm new ideas about how to enhance public trust and confidence in the justice system while maintaining public safety. According to the White House website, more than 300 law enforcement officials have attended briefings this summer.
Around Town
Wentzville School District saves $3.2 million in bond sale and refinance
Photo courtesy Wentzville School District Construction work continues on Liberty High School in the Wentzville School District.
The Wentzville School District Board of Education unanimously approved the sale of approximately $54 million Lease Participation Certificates that will provide funds for construction across the district. The sale will also provide funds for refinancing a portion of the outstanding 2011 Lease Participation Certificates that were sold to finance a portion of the Proposition 3 projects approved by voters in 2011. The refinancing saves the taxpayers of the WSD over $3.2 million in interest expense over the next 15 years. This is the eighth time in the past seven years that the district has refinanced bonds for a total interest cost savings of over $21 million. Fiscal responsibility across the district has resulted in a strong “Aa3” credit rating which contributed to the WSD receiving nearly $100 million in orders from investors (almost twice the amount of bonds available), which resulted in lower interest rates and borrowing costs for the WSD. “The favorable market conditions, combined with the district’s outstanding credit rating, resulted in an opportunity to lock in savings for our tax payers,” said Board of Education President Natalie DeWeese. “The timing could not be better as we work to provide the facilities needed to accommodate the students who continue to move to our district.” The Wentzville School District continues to be the fastest growing district in the state in the 21st century, adding between 500 and 600 new students each year since 2001. This year, enrollment is up nearly 700 students over the start of school last year. As a result, the district has built nine new schools during that period and two more are under construction, scheduled to open for the 2017-18 school year. The WSD is now the 11th largest school district in Missouri. SEPTEMBER 2016 | CROSSROADS
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Always An Adventure
The art of dodging mudslides
The late summer deluge was tapering down to a steady rain. The summer monsoon afternoon rains had been a near-daily occurrence for the previous week. I put on my mud boots, my optimistically-labeled “waterproof, breathable” jacket, and ventured forth into the wet, shovel in hand, to unclog the culvert that crossed under the road above my house. The inlet of the culvert had a grate across the opening, a deliberate obstacle to debris flowing down the normally-trickling creek. It was much easier to clean a blockage off the grate than from inside of the relatively narrow pipe. As a result, a large, deep mud puddle appeared at the culvert intake after a good rain, with water streaming across the road. Like shoveling snow, cleaning the debris is simply a part of living in the mountains. Standing in the puddle, muddy water lapping at the top of my boots, I worked with the shovel, trying to stay ahead of the rain and debris that flowed down the mountainside and through the narrow gulch. After a few minutes of digging, I could see and hear the water begin to drain down through the pipe instead of across the road. Happy that we wouldn’t need to bring in equipment to dig out the mess, I watched the puddle begin to recede. That happiness proved to be short-lived. Then I heard it. Felt it, actually - a strange,
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distant rumbling and rushing. The odd sound became louder, and it became obvious that something large and powerful was coming down the gully. Having seen a few mudslides come down this creek, I knew they could be impressive, a couple of feet high, and a big mess to clean up. This was different. The rumbling could be felt through my feet, and the sounds of large branches breaking off the trees lining the ditch was enough to get the adrenaline flowing. The trees were shaking as the destructive blob approached, and I ran as fast as I could away from its direction of travel, down the road and toward home. When the mass hit the road, it brought hundreds of cubic yards of thick mud, containing huge boulders, trees, and items that had recently been adorning neighbors’ yards. This flow was a bit slower and thicker than others that I’d seen, with previous versions being more liquid than solid. The mudslide didn’t chase me down the road as I had feared, but it continued on the normal path of the creek toward the highway, washing away about three feet of width off the downhill side of the road. A bit lower down, some large boulders settled out and acted as a dam, causing the muck to spread out horizontally, making a mess on several different properties along its way. Some of the older residents said it was the
biggest slide they’d seen in 35 years. One resident described a large run from a few decades ago. The neighborhood had installed a six-foot-diameter culvert across the road, big enough so that it would “never” plug up. A few seconds into the mudflow, a boulder caught the edge of the culvert, and stood it up on end, causing the mud to flow in every direction but down the normal path. An elderly couple had to be assisted out of the windows of their home 200 yards away from the normal creek path, as two feet of mud had been deposited around their doors. Our road has since been rebuilt, and there’s a nice, easily-cleaned trench drain across the road now which should accommodate most flows. While it was a very impressive experience seeing and feeling the combined power of gravity and water, it was a thrill I could have done without. Now, any dark red color on the radar weather map that appears to be headed our way brings a sense of apprehension as to what might come down the mountain. 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.
NanA I was recently left in charge to babysit my grandson while his parents took a four-day excursion. It had been awhile since I was left solely in charge of a helpless toddler, but I thought I was up to the task. After all, my kids survived childhood without any crippling memories of that period of time… well there was that one child, but a big shout out to expensive therapists! When my daughter questioned whether or not I could handle the task of babysitting, I speedily reminded her that I had six kids at one time and could still account for three of them. I boasted that fifty percent was a darn good number. (I actually only have three kids. But I’ve said it enough to cause them to wonder for a moment if there really are a few other misplaced siblings out there, wandering aimlessly around on a playground awaiting my return.) I reassured her with plenty of words of comfort, like, “No, I will not drop your son on his head. No, I will not let him play with chainsaws or stray bears, and yes I will make sure he eats his carrots.” I then bid them happy travels. I actually told them to get lost before I changed my mind and they quickly departed. All seemed to be going well the first hour. I hadn’t dropped the baby on his head…much. I wrestled the chainsaw away from him just in time before he found the on switch, and I chased the grizzly away that he had lured into the yard with soggy carrots…the ones I tried to tempt him to eat by pouring syrup on them. Apparently bears are naturally attracted to sugary substances and chubby, unsupervised children. Who knew? But then the real challenge began – the other grandmother. She happened to live right next door and got wind that I was in charge of the little prince. Suddenly things got much more complicated. She popped in unexpectedly with a subtle jab at my mothering skills, “Hi. I just called child protective services, they’ll be here any minute to investigate the grizzly incident.” “Umm,” I bristled. “That was a giant teddy bear I gave him. So you can call off your hounds and we’ll manage just fine.” “Well, he doesn’t like bears. He prefers cars. Like this one.” She pulled out an enormous toy truck with a bow on top and wiggled it in front of the boy’s eyes.
Moore On Life
wars
He immediately giggled and ran towards her. I grabbed him before he took the bait and shoved a chunk of candy bar into his mouth. “Hmph! Chocolate before naptime is not a good idea,” she snapped. “I supplement it with his favorite healthy juice,” I said waving a baby bottle at her. She grabbed it and sniffed. “Sweet mother of child abuse, that’s Pepsi!” she snarled. “Woops! Of course, that one’s mine,” I said as I shoved the bottle into my mouth and began to suckle it. “Well then,” she said as she grabbed the toddler before he fell while teetering from the top of the staircase banister, “how do you explain all these head bumps?” “Yes, well we were in the process of developing his fine motor skills and reflexes and he may have tumbled a few times,” I said. “Hmph. You should really put a protective helmet on him then.” “Umm, I did and he’s already cracked and broken through two.” “Okay, but I’m watching you granny!” She said poking a finger in my direction. Wha-a-at, did she call me?! “Listen you old hen,” I said, “I’ve had more experience raising kids than you’ll ever hope for. Why, I’ve had six and can still account for three of them!” A look of shock and horror came across her overcooked face. Her eyes bulged and it appeared as if she might need a defibrillator. Oopsie! The gig was up. She rushed back to her house to no doubt call in the SWAT team. This little misunderstanding would be cleared up in a few days. In the meantime, I quickly packed a few bags and we headed off for Disneyland. Let her try and top that one! 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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Out in the wilderness Weldon Spring Conservation Area gives visitors a variety of outdoor recreation options in the heart of St. Charles County By Brett Auten
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here should be a carnival barker positioned outside the gates at 6990 S Missouri 94 in St. Charles. With a bullhorn held high, the barker could rightly bellow: “Recreation, recreation, recreation. Step right up and pick your recreation.� You name it, the Weldon Spring Conservation Area has it when it comes to outdoor interests. Tucked along Highway 94, and south of Interstate 64, the area currently has 8,398.09 acres, which includes 6,752.5 acres of forest and woodland, 744 acres of cropland, 500 acres of sparsely vegetation sand flats, 300 acres of grassland, 66 acres of lakes and ponds, 20 acres of glades, and 16 acres of wetlands. The area has numerous limestone cliffs overlooking the Missouri River. The floods of 1993 and 1995 deposited sand on almost 1,000 acres of agricultural fields, which now provides wildlife habitat with valuable breeding, foraging, and nesting habitat for a variety of birds as well as habitat for other wildlife and invertebrate species. The area is named after John Weldon, who came to this region in 1796 with a Spanish Land Grant for 425 acres. This acreage included the spring after which Weldon Spring is named. During World War II, the federal government acquired almost 17,000 acres in the area for the construction of a munitions plant. In 1948, all of the property, except the munitions plant, was given to the University of Missouri for an agricultural experiment station. The original purchase by the Conservation Department from the University of Missouri was in 1978 for 7,230 acres. A fun fact about Weldon Springs is that portions of the area, which have long since met environmental health and safety standards and considered safe
for recreation and wildlife, were used by the Army in the 1940’s for TNT and DNT production and by the Atomic Energy Commission in the 1960’s for uranium ore processing. One of the main attractions to Weldon Spring are its trails. There are four separate trails on the land, two of which are well-known for its hiking. The Lewis trail and the Clark trail are can’t-miss spots with the Lewis trail coming in at just over eight miles and the Clark trail at nearly five-and-a-half miles. A quick perusal of reviews of Weldon Springs finds that the trail system is a favorite among visitors. “We have a multiple-trail system that services a lot of needs,” Dan Zarlenga, regional media specialist for the Missouri Department of Conservation, said. “They have some pretty good hills with a nice collection of woods. The trails are primarily under a tree canopy and overlook the Missouri River Valley and the Katy Trail. We have a lot of recreational opportunities but the trails are the biggest asset of Weldon Spring.” While the Lewis and the Clark are for hiking only, The Lost Valley Trail is 11 miles that can be hiked or rode on a bike. The Hamburg Trail is another hiking/biking trail that is right at six miles in length. “Lost Valley is on the opposite side of the highway and though not as scenic, there is a variety of forest and open fields,” Zarlenga said. Weldon Spring also has the Katy Trail State Park passing through and it parallels the Missouri River for 5.3 miles.
For the water-loving folks, there is a boat launch for the Missouri River and there are a whopping 51 acres worth of fishable lakes and ponds all filled with hungry crappie, bluegill and others. Seasonal hunting is also an option including; deer, dove, squirrel, turkey, rabbit and waterfowl. The Weldon Spring Hollow Natural Area is 385 acres (of upland and bottomland) forest and rugged river break. Natural features include limestone cliffs and bluff escarpments. The area is perfect for the bird watchers in the group “This habitat is pristine and gives you a glimpse of what the area looked like pre-settlement times,” Zarlenga said. “A lot of birders come here for that.” Weldon Spring has garnered a reputation as a hidden gem and it’s easy to see why. Not only are people in St. Charles County making use of all its offerings, but neighboring St. Louis and other nearby regions as well have come to make this a frequently-visited destination. “It’s a 45-minute drive from downtown (St. Louis) and 30-20 minutes from other parts in St. Louis County,” Zarlenga said. “It is fairly accessible from Interstate 40/64, Highway 364, and Interstate 70 all with ease. Once you get on the area you feel like you are out in the wilderness a little bit and that has its appeal.” Photos by Ray Rockwell
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Automobile Alley
‘Amazing’ 2017 Honda Ridgeline stands out among mid-size pickups
To sum up the all-new 2017 Honda Ridgeline mid-size pickup truck in one word, it’s simply “amazing!” Recently launched through their 1,000 or so nationwide independent dealership network, Ridgeline tends to deliver a welcomed, higher-level of versatility, capability and underlining comfort when compared to other trucks in this specialty class. With budget concerns taken into account when new-vehicle shopping, the manufacturer-suggested retail price starts out at $29,475 for the two-wheel-drive model and $31,275 for the all-wheel-drive version. The lower step-in height, car-like drive characteristics and totally whisperquiet interior gives you the overall feeling that you’re engaged with a near-luxury automobile, rather than a truck. By indicating that the ride is quiet, I’d suggest that you could likely hear the sound of cotton balls dropping while seated in the unprecedentedly spacious passenger cabin. Typical road noises tend to be squelched out at even at highway speeds. This welcomed lack of noise, vibration and drive harshness is on par with high-end vehicles. Honda engineers designed the ultrarigid and “steel strong” unibody structure; therefore, it has class-leading payload capacity and benchmark dynamic performance. The result is an amazingly versatile Honda truck, with built-in uncompromised capability plus the fact that you can be 100 percent assured of Honda’s quality reputation with every mile you drive. This innovative vehicle was redesigned from the ground up. It tends to offer both recreational and work users a higher degree of utility in a modern and rugged, yet sophisticated midsize truck package. It also has the largest and most flexible cabin in its class. Ridgeline is framed around a high level of confident and refined carlike dynamic driving performance and ride quality. The fully-independent front and rear suspension systems further allows Ridgeline to drive with superior ride comfort and precision handling overall. Also
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built-in, they engineered a highly aerodynamic and tightly-sealed “next generation” underside foundation that delivers up to three times the torsional rigidity of competing body-on-frame trucks. The impressive towing numbers include class-leading 1,584-pound maximum payload capacity, coupled with up to 5,000-pound towing capabilities. These figures do however tend to have some variance, depending on trim and equipment. The ‘17 Ridgeline sports a sleek, attractive and sophisticated prominent exterior design. The premium interior is designed with high-quality, soft-touch materials throughout the cabin. The 60/40-split and folding rear passenger compartment offers roomy seating for up to three passengers. The truck also features the world’s first available truck bed audio system plus an available 400 watt in-bed power outlet and Honda-exclusive dual-action tailgate making Ridgeline the “ultimate tailgate party” vehicle. Ridgeline also has a sophisticated engine and available advanced torque vectoring all-wheel-drive system for on-road and offroad performance as well as best-in-class fuel efficiency. The EPA fuel economy numbers reflect 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway (2WD) plus 18-mpg city/25-highway with AWD. All versions of the 2017 Honda Ridgeline are manufactured in Lincoln, Alabama and it’s built in seven trim levels. 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.
Business
Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce Serving Wentzville, Lake St. Louis, and Dardenne Prairie
Chamber hosts four ribbon cutting ceremonies The Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce hosted four ribbon cutting ceremonies for Pinot’s Palette, Little Free Library, Walmart – Lake St. Louis and Overstock Outlet. 1. Pinot’s Palette is located in The Meadows at 10 Meadows Circle Drive, Ste. 100 in Lake St. Louis. You can reach them at 636265-0799 or online at www. pinotspalette.com/lakestlouis.
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2. Little Free Library is located at 305 Ash Street in Wentzville. Stop by and pick up or drop off a book today. 3. The Lake St. Louis Walmart Store is celebrating the opening of their new Online Shopping. They are the only store in St. Charles County offering this service. You can visit Walmart.com/Grocery to schedule your time for pick-up today. 4. Overstock Outlet is located at 712 West Pearce Blvd. in Wentzville. You can reach them at 636-578-9574. New items come in weekly, so stop by to explore all the products they have for sale.
The Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce serves Dardenne Prairie, Lake St. Louis, and Wentzville. The chamber is comprised of over 685 members. If you are interested in having a ribbon cutting at your place of business please contact the chamber. To view pictures & video of these recent ribbon cuttings please visit our Chamber Facebook Page. For more information please call the chamber office at 636-3276914 or visit the chamber online at http://westernstcharlescountychamber.com.
Run the Lake Color Run set for Sept. 24 The Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce will be hosting the Run the Lake Color 5K Run & One Mile Fun Run/Walk as part of the Lake St. Louis Fall Festival on Saturday, Sept. 24. The race will begin and end at Windjammer Point in Lake St. Louis. Come enjoy beautiful views of the lake as you run and enjoy the Lake St. Louis Fall Festival after you complete the race. 5K will begin at 1 p.m. and the One Mile Fun Run/Walk will begin at 2 p.m. Runners will only pay $25 and there is a special family and kids pricing. Get your family and friends together for a fun and colorful run. Help us fill the streets of Lake St. Louis with runners this fall. The race will start and end at Windjammer Point in Lake St. Louis. Runners can register for the race by contacting the Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce at 636-327-6914, at the chamber office located at 207 South Linn Ave., Wentzville, MO
63385, or they can download the Race Registration Form by going to the chamber website at 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.
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Nonprofit Profile
TEAM Food Pantry celebrates 30 years of service
The Emergency Assistance Ministry (TEAM Food Pantry) first opened its doors back in October 1986 at the Lutheran Church of the Atonement. Several churches had met to discuss having one pantry serve the area residents. Each church had its own, but they concluded that wasn’t the best way to serve those in need. It was decided to pool resources and have one larger pantry - TEAM. Today this small group of churches has grown to 36, and they continue to be the foundation of TEAM, giving food and monetary donations. The pantry is located at 265 St. Catherine in Florissant. The mission of TEAM is to serve the residents in need from Florissant and Hazelwood, and also to give out USDA commodities to St. Louis County residents. TEAM Food Pantry is the largest pantry in North County and is proud to celebrate 30 years of service to our area communities. TEAM is a very efficiently run operation with a pantry director, warehouse manager, and 90 volunteers. A Board of Directors oversees the pantry, focusing on raising funds and getting the word out to the communities. The 100 percent volunteer team works as caseworkers, pantry workers, warehouse workers and drivers (picking up food from stores, schools, businesses, community organizations, etc.). The Florissant Valley Fire Protection District helps us
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unload our huge commodity food runs once a month. TEAM can always use more volunteers. Call Nancy Wolff, TEAM Director, if you are interested at 314-830-4781. Monday through Friday, nearly 40 families daily receive enough food to last about a week and a half, and another 20 families are served each Saturday. TEAM clients can obtain food once a month, after going through a simple registration process. After that, they call for an appointment to pick up food and bring in a current piece of mail showing they live within our zip codes. St. Louis County residents can come to us once a month for USDA government commodities. We currently have about 3,200 client families registered. May through October are TEAM’s leanest months, and donations of food are really needed (canned goods, pastas, rice, meats, snacks, and produce). Food can be dropped off Monday through Friday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.; Saturdays 10 a.m. - noon. Cash donations allow us to purchase other items needed. Check or cash donations can be dropped off in person or mailed to: TEAM Food Pantry Attn: TEAM Treasurer 265 St. Catherine Florissant, MO 63031 TEAM is proactive in trying to raise money through fundraisers and participation in community events. We had the Girl Scouts April Showers Drive and the Postal Workers Food Drive in May. We have completed two dining events partnering with local restaurants, bringing in customers, doing a gift basket raffle, and receiving 15 percent of the sales. We also participate in food truck events, plus fall festivals in Florissant and Hazelwood. TEAM’s biggest fundraiser, Trivia Night, occurs each April, and this past April brought in $15,500. The Florissant Rotary Club has always been a major contributor. In summary, we know there will always be hunger in varying degrees. TEAM Food Pantry wants to remain a viable part of North County and be here for our residents into the future.
Advertiser Profile
RV equals family recreation By Russ Patton, owner of Byerly RV
The RV industry is returning to its roots. Smaller, lighter travel trailers which can be pulled by todays downsized SUV, vans and pickups are very popular. Tiny, but creatively designed, these mini trailers can feature bathrooms, kitchens, A/C, furnaces and sleeping for two-to-four people. Incredible! At the spur of the moment you can hook up and go. Where? Anywhere you can drive for a week or a weekend. Affordable? About $10,000-$15,000 which should fit into a budget at about $125 $150 per month. And, of course, this is only the beginning. As you learn to enjoy the escapist lifestyle, your comfort level may entice you to seek more space and amenities. A larger travel trailer or fifth wheel can double or triple your living space with slide-out rooms and private sleeping areas. A few people will eventually gravitate to the “extreme” RVs as seen on TV, at campgrounds or on our lot. Some full-timer RVs are so large that it seems like your first tiny trailer could fit in their storage compartment! What’s it all about, this RV phenomenon? Until you look inside one, you have no idea. Take a peek. Come see us at Byerly RV on I44 in Eureka. Check us out first at byerlyrv.com or Facebook. Byerly, the center of the RV world. 636-938-2000.
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Wentzville EDC Business Spotlight
Private Performance Studio (B Street Productions) is located at 102 E. Pearce Blvd. near its intersection with Linn Ave. in the Crossroads Square center. The business is owned by Barry Luedloff and opened in 2016. This unique business offers a private-focused studio with traditional piano and classical organ lessons, along with private coaching for performance singing and acting. The owner grew-up in Wentzville and wanted to open a performance studio following his many years of involvement in the arts. Barry likes the close-knit sense of community and in his many acquaintances. He invites you to visit the Downtown Wentzville location and become a part of its growing success.
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Entertainment
Two directors seeking a big comeback in ‘Hacksaw Ridge’ and ‘Split’ It you’ve watched the film “Signs” in 2002, you would’ve known the irony that film would later present itself. Things have changed in the careers of two of the film’s lead actors Mel Gibson and Joaquin Phoenix and its star director M. Night Shyamalan. In a certain period of their careers, in their own individual times, many had thought that their careers were over. It may have been true too… if only for while. Joaquin Phoenix’s downfall turned out to be an orchestrated hoax for a fake documentary film, “I’m Still Here.” So his “off” time didn’t last long at all and he has been back on track with his acting career ever since. For Mel Gibson, “Signs” would not only be the biggest opening hit in the history of his films, but it would also be his last starring role in eight years, before “Edge of Darkness.” He directed two more films, “The Passion of the Christ” and “Apocalypto” and the latter wasn’t seen by movie-goers nearly as much, most likely due to his off-set drama situations that put him in a negative public light. Like “The Passion,” “Apocalypto” received well-earned Academy Award Nominations in the technical categories and remains to be an over-looked gem in the historic/action/adventure genre.
“Hacksaw Ridge” (Opening Nov. 4)
Photo courtesy of Summit Entertainment
Ten years after “Apocalypto,” Mel Gibson may have found his chance at redemption. He directed a World War II true story about a soldier, Desmond T. Doss (Andrew Garfield-in a dream role), a soldier who received the Medal of Honor without firing a shot. He was a medic on the battlegrounds who refused to kill people; even refusing to hold a gun. The recently released trailer of “Hacksaw Ridge” wisely promotes the film as “from the Academy Award Winning Director of ‘Braveheart,’” focusing only on the positive achievements of the film’s director. Alongside Andrew Garfield, the film also features Sam Worthington, Vince Vaughn, Hugo Weaving, Teresa Palmer, Rachel Griffiths and many more. During our time of certain – and obvious – political controversies, the timing of this film could not have been better. With a story this fresh and full of meaningful messages this could be the Gibson film that moviegoers cannot ignore. I will be seeing this film myself, unquestionably. In M. Night Shyamalan’s case, his string of horribly-reviewed box-
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office disappointments has lasted for about a decade. After helping to create the TV series “Wayward Pines” (he also directed the pilot himself), followed by the surprise success of his low-budget horror film, “The Visit,” Shyamalan has already begun receiving multiple praises with the phrase “a welcome return to form.” After seeing both the TV show and the film myself, I must say those comments are on to something.
“Split” (Opening Jan. 20, 2017)
Photo courtesy of Universal Pictures
While Shyamalan’s career may already be in the beginning phases of a comeback, “Split” could be the redemption he’s looking for. His new project is backed by Universal, signaling his return to making scary thrillers on a major budget. The film is about a man with twenty-three split personalities (a role that even Leonardo DiCaprio was in talks to play) holding three kidnapped women against their will. James McAvoy portrays the complicated kidnapper-who’s about to develop a dominating 24th personality. A role like this is the kind that any great actor would kill for. After watching the film’s well-executed trailer, I realized that part of Shyamalan’s recent success is due his delving into the more psychological side of horror. When “The Visit” came out last year, it was his funniest, but also his most psychotic-by far, especially during the film’s dark turn in the last 15 minutes. It’s nasty good! With “Split,” it looks like Shyamalan is picking up from where he left off on the psychological side. Disturbing people being the focus of the horror is a smart new way to go for him. He stated that “Split” was his most challenging to shoot and with those arresting shots in the trailer – the hard work clearly shows. Is it possible that McAvoy could get Oscar attention seeing that the film opens right at the tail end of awards season? Here’s hoping the final product is as good as it looks. 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
Sweet Easy Ideas for award-winning desserts
Chocolate Mandarin Orange Cake Prep time: 10 minutes | Total time: 45 minutes | Servings: 12
Ingredients: 2 cans (15 ounces) mandarin oranges, divided 1 box (2 layer) devil’s food cake mix 3 eggs 1/2 cup vegetable oil 1 orange, peel grated (optional) 1 package (4-serving size) vanilla flavor instant pudding 2 cups frozen whipped topping, thawed 1 cup heavy whipping cream 1 cup semisweet chocolate Directions: Heat oven to 350 F. Spray two (9-inch) cake pans with cooking spray. Drain mandarin oranges, keeping fruit and syrup reserved separately. In large bowl, combine cake mix, juice from one can of mandarin oranges, eggs, oil and orange peel; beat 2 minutes. Pour cake mix into prepared pans. Layer mandarin oranges from one can over each cake and gently submerge them into cake batter. Bake 25-30 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pan 10 minutes. Remove from pan onto wire rack; cool completely.
Pour 1/2 cup reserved juice from second can of oranges in bowl with pudding mix; whisk 2 minutes, or until pudding mix is completely dissolved. Remove 12 orange slices from second can and dry with paper towel; set aside. Fold in whipped topping and remaining mandarin oranges. Spread mandarin frosting on top of first layer of cake and out to edges. Place second layer on top of first layer. In small saucepan, heat cream until just beginning to steam, but do not boil. Remove from stove and stir in chocolate. Stir until well-blended. Pour chocolate mixture over cake and garnish with reserved mandarin oranges. Refrigerate half hour before serving.
Old-Fashioned Upside Down Cake Prep time: 20 minutes | Total time: 35 minutes | Servings: 8 Ingredients: 2/3 cup margarine, divided 2/3 cup packed brown sugar, divided 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple slices 10 maraschino cherries 3/4 cup granulated sugar, divided 2 eggs, separated
1 teaspoon grated lemon peel 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 3/4 teaspoons baking powder 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup sour cream
Directions: Heat oven to 350 F.
on juice and vanilla. Combine flour, baking powder and salt. Blend into creamed mixture alternately with sour cream and reserved pineapple syrup.
In 10-inch cast-iron skillet, melt 1/3 cup margarine. Remove from heat. Add brown sugar and stir until blended. Drain pineapple slices; reserve 2 tablespoons syrup. Arrange pineapple slices in sugar mixture. Place cherry in center of each slice. Beat remaining 1/3 cup margarine with 1/2 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg yolks, lemon peel, lem-
Beat egg whites to soft peaks. Gradually beat in remaining 1/4 cup granulated sugar to make stiff meringue. Fold into batter. Pour over pineapple in skillet. Bake 35 minutes, or until toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let stand 10 minutes then invert onto serving plate. Serve warm or cold.
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Medical Memo
Teach kids to manage their health care Tips for parents of college-age students
For parents with college-age children, there’s a fairly standard set of basics that helps ensure their children are ready to tackle the world with some degree of independence. But beyond school supplies, housing, food and transportation, one important consideration remains: health care. As a parent, ensuring your young adult is equipped to take charge of his own health can be a daunting task. That’s why it’s important to have a conversation with your college students about their local health service options before the need arises. Together you can do some research and discuss the answers to these questions: What is your health coverage? Take time to brush up on (or introduce your child) to your family’s health insurance policy and understand how your policy covers various facilities. This is an opportunity to teach about co-pays and deductibles, and what it means when a physician or facility is considered innetwork and out-of-network. Do you already pay to use the student health center? In some cases, student fees include access to the campus student health center and your separate health insurance
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may not be necessary. However, it’s important to understand what the student fee covers and where there may be gaps, such as dental care. What are the local options for health care? You’ll rest easier with the assurance that the medical care available to your students is of the highest quality. Many colleges and universities take the extra step of achieving accreditation by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC), the nation’s leading accreditor of student health services, to affirm that the care they provide is at nationally recognized standards. You can find accredited organizations at aaahc.org or inquire about accreditation at your university medical center. Where is the student center located? Encourage your student to set up a well appointment at the student health clinic to get a file started. Not only will this ensure your child can find the center when need arises, having an established patient profile cuts down on paperwork when there’s an emergent health concern. This is particularly helpful for students with medical issues or restrictions because they can be logged in advance
for easy recall. Which other medical practitioners are in the area? There may be any number of reasons your student needs to be seen off campus, so it’s a smart idea to look for AAAHC accreditation when trying to assess the quality of nearby health care alternatives. Make a short list with office hours and phone numbers for future reference. Where is the best local hospital? Devise an emergency plan for urgent needs and be sure your student knows how to get to the closest urgent care center and hospital, as well as when to use each one. If possible, visit the facilities in person so your child can get familiar with the facility and learn where to go and how to check in without the pressure of a crisis situation. By approaching the topic of your college student’s health care together, you can help ensure your child has the information necessary to begin managing personal care. In the process, you can also be assured that you’re identifying health centers that share your commitment to the very best care for both the mind and body of your student.
Community Calendar
...September... 2 - Free concert O’Fallon Jammin’ concert with the O’Fallon Community Concert Band bringing the sound of music from the movies, pops, jazz and Big Band from 6:30 – 9 p.m. at Civic Park at 308 Civic Park Drive in O’Fallon. There is free admission and parking. Bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating around the bandstand, Concessions will be provided by Sorelle. An ADA-accessible playground, restrooms and walking path are located nearby. For weather updates call 636-379-5614 and for more information visit www.ofallon.mo.us/jammin.
5 – Labor Day concert A free Labor Day concert takes place at 2 p.m. at Civic Park Bandstand in Civic Park at 308 Civic Park Drive in O’Fallon. For more information contact 636-474-2732 or dgranaas@ofallon.mo.us
9 – Patriot Day ceremony A Patriot Day ceremony honoring first responders and remembering the victims of the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001 will take place at 8:30 a.m. at the 9/11 Memorial for First Responders at the east parking lot outside the O’Fallon Municipal Centre at 100 North Main Street in O’Fallon. For more information contact Conan Stott at 636-379-5550 or cstott@ ofallon.mo.us.
10 – St. Charles County Police Department open house A community open house takes place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the St. Charles County Police Department at 101 Sheriff Dierker Court in O’Fallon. Event includes equipment and vehicle displays, K9 visits, safety presentations, giveaways and more. Call 636-949-3057 for more information.
11 – Concert John Denver tribute concert takes place from 3 – 5:30 p.m. at Sisters of the Most Precious Blood St. Joseph Chapel at 204 North Main Street in O’Fallon. Free will offerings will be accepted to benefit St. Charles Outreach Coalition Against Human Trafficking. For more information email ehogan@ccps-ofallon.org.
12 – Golf tournament Sts. Joachim and Ann Care Service Hosts its 12th Annual Golf Outing to Help Prevent Homelessness and Hunger at Bear Creek Golf Club at 158 Bear Creek Drive in Wentzville. There will be an
11:30 a.m. registration, 12:30 p.m. shotgun start, and 6 p.m. awards dinner and silent auction. The Annual Golf Outing is vital in helping us raise the funds necessary to deliver services to vulnerable families, especially children and the elderly, who are seeking food and shelter. The cost to participate is $125 for an individual or $500 for a foursome; $30 per person for dinneronly attendees. Sponsorships are still available. For more information or to register, call 636441-1302, ext. 263, email to kgrant@jacares. org, or you can visit the Care Service website at http://www.jacares.org/.
16 – POW MIA ceremony A POW MIA ceremony dedicated to the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces who remain missing in action or imprisoned on foreign soil, and to the families who are waiting to welcome them home again will take place from 11 a.m. – noon at the Veterans Memorial Walk at 800 Veterans Memorial Parkway in O’Fallon. For more information contact Conan Stott at 636-379-5550 or cstott@ofallon.mo.us.
17 – Citywide yard sale The Fall Citywide Yard Sale is scheduled for Sept. 17 in Wentzville. Turn your trash to treasure by hosting a yard sale at your home. For $6 you can list your sale in the yard sale booklet. Each sale will receive an official City Yard Sale sign. To list your sale, stop by Progress Park Recreation Center, City Hall or call 636332-9236. The deadline to list your sale is Sept. 12, so register early. Please note: Progress Park’s indoor facilities will be closed Sept. 6-11 for maintenance. Shoppers may purchase booklets beginning Sept. 14 at City Hall, Progress Park or in the Utility Service Center Drive-Thru for only $2. Each booklet comes with a map to help you locate the bargains.
24 – RSC Art & Family Festival, open house and movie in the park From 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. come try the Renaud Spirit Center facilities at 2650 Tri Sports Circle in O’Fallon for free. Get a 10 percent discount if you sign up for a new membership. From 5 – 8 p.m., enjoy free kids’ activities, local artists selling their work, giveaways and raffles, followed by a free showing of “Hotel Transylvania 2” on a big screen starting at about 8 p.m. Bring a blanket or lawn chair for outdoor movie seating. Vendors and concessionaires will have food and beverages for sale. For more information call RSC staff at 636-474-2732.
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