A historic improvement
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APRIL 2017
contents
VOL 13 | NO 4
Departments
Published monthly with newsstand circulation to Wentzville and Lake Saint Louis plus newsstands in O’Fallon, Troy, Lake Sherwood and Augusta. Publisher Robert Huneke Editor Mathew DeKinder
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Around Town Local news and events
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Simon Says Surviving tornadoes, snow, and babies in Wentzville
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Always an Adventure Just a few more miles…
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Moore on Life Nobody’s fool
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Business Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce
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Automobile Alley The 2017 Mazda CX-3 delivers on the promise of big things in small packages
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Entertainment Jeff Nichols: master chronicler of our countryside
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Food Exploring a culinary classic: Endless possibilities with potatoes
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Medical Memo Better balance for heart health
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Community Calendar: March
Production Manager Rebecca Brockmann Contributors Avalanche, David Finkelstein, Tony Mathews, Cindy Moore, Russ Patton 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
features
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A historic improvement The nation’s first Vietnam War Memorial in Wentzville is being expanded and improved for 50th anniversary
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Advertiser Profile First-time RV’ers …confused?
Copyright 2015 Huneke Publications, Inc. No part of the publication may be reproduced in any form without the expressed written consent of the publisher. Crossroads is a trademark of Huneke Publications, Inc. Any published use of Crossroads implying affiliation is strictly prohibited.
Nonprofit Profile Lighthouse for the Blind-St. Louis acts like a for-profit company – even though it is nonprofit
On the Cover: Photo by Ray Rockwell
APRIL 2017 | CROSSROADS | 3
Around Town
Sharing the harvest Hunters across Missouri donate deer meat to the Share the Harvest program to help feed the hungry By Brett Auten
It was a bountiful harvest in more ways than one. Once again, the Missouri Department of Conservation and the Conservation Federation of Missouri joined forces with the state’s deer hunters for the state’s Share the Harvest program that donates deer meat to help feed hungry Missourians all around the state. In all 4,280 hunters donated 198,277 pounds of venison to Share the Harvest program this past deer season. The process was simple. Deer hunters donated their extra venison to more than 100 participating meat processors throughout the state who would grind the deer meat into one-pound packages. The packaged venison was given to food banks and food pantries for distribution to Missourians in need of food assistance. Mike Ohlms of Old Monroe has participated in the program for upwards of 16 years. “As far as hunters giving back to the community, there is no better way to do it,” Ohlms said. “For hunters to go out there and do what they enjoy doing so much then turn around and make a donation and knowing that he or she is feeding quite a few families is absolutely fantastic.” Ohlms has had the unique perspective of not only donating but also delivering the processed venison to the food pantries. “The first time I saw the look on the faces of the food pantry volunteers, it was unbelievable,” Ohlms said. “One time, due to a rush at the processor, I made a delivery early in the morning and there were people waiting in line. They all jumped in and helped unload and it was constant ‘thank yous.’” Ohlms said, over the years, some of the recipients have had to be nudged into trying the venison. “A lot of the pantries have recipes there for them to try,” he said. “As far as a high quality red meat, (the food pantries) just don’t get that type of thing. Once they try it, they usually want to come back for more.” In both archery and firearm deer hunting seasons, hunters are lim-
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Submitted photo Administered by Missouri Department of Conservation and the Conservation Federation of Missouri, Share the Harvest had hunters donating harvested deer meat to participating meat processors who then prepare the donated venison by grinding it into one-pound packages that are given to local food banks and food pantries.
ited to two antlered deer during the seasons combined. An archer’s hunting permit allows for two deer of either sex. Only one antlered deer may be taken before November 12. Only one antlered deer may be taken during the entire firearms season Dan Zarlenga is the Media Specialist with the Missouri Department of Conservation. Zarlenga said the program was started to ensure that harvested meat was put to good use. “Hunting is the main tool to manage the deer herd,” Zarlenga said. “A number of hunters already got their deer and don’t really need a second or don’t have a freezer big enough or a place to put the second one. This is an opportunity to put the meat to good use.” Donations to food pantries are oftentimes boxed items so protein is a lot harder to come by. Venison has been championed for its lean, low-fat source of protein. Jim is a client of the Saints Joachim & Ann Care Service Food Pantry in St. Peters (his last name is not included for privacy reasons). He used the venison he received to make stew and chili. Saints Joachim & Ann Care Service Food Pantry has been distributing food each week to low-income families and others in need since 1981. “In the winter time, we always went hunting and got our own deer. So it was just something I was raised on,” he said. “I think this is a very good resource for people who need food, and for the hunters to help out that’s a good deal. It means a lot to everyone.” The program began in 1992 and since has provided about 3.7 million pounds venison. “Hunters started Share the Harvest because they saw a need in their communities,” Sara Pauley, Missouri Department of Conservation Director, said. “Hunters remain the driving force behind this popular program that helps feed our fellow Missourians who are in need. We sincerely thank the thousands of deer hunters who support Share the Harvest, along with the many participating meat processors and sponsors.” Processing fees are covered entirely or in part by numerous local sponsors, along with statewide sponsors that include: MDC, CFM, Shelter Insurance, Bass Pro Shops, Missouri Chapter Safari Club International, Missouri Chapter National Wild Turkey Federation, Midway USA Inc., Missouri Food Banks Association, United Bowhunters of Missouri, Missouri Trappers Association, the Missouri Hunter Education Instructors Association, and the Walmart Foundation.
Around Town
Plan ahead before landscaping near transformers To improve aesthetics in many neighborhoods, some communities and local governments require power lines to be installed underground. While this eliminates utility poles and overhead wires, it requires installing padmount transformers in some yards – often in the front yard. Homeowners concerned about curb appeal or backyard decor attempt to screen transformers from view by using bushes, flower beds and fences. These well-meaning beautification practices often obstruct access and create an unsafe situation for Cuivre River Electric Cooperative linemen and all electric utility workers. Cuivre River linemen and all electric utility workers need at least 10 feet of clear space in front of pad-mount transformers to maintain a safe working distance. Linemen repair units while they are energized so homeowners don’t experience an interruption in ser-
vice. To ensure safety, they use an eight-foot fiberglass hotstick that requires about 10 feet of “elbow room” in front of the access panel. cur, increasing the risk of injury and fire.” To reduce these hazards, allow at least three feet of space on the three remaining sides of the transformer. If pad-mount transformer maintenance, repair or replacement is necessary, vegetation and other obstructions will be removed. Property owners should also be aware that vegetation and obstructions in designated utility easements where poles, wires and other equipment like pad-mount transformers are placed could be damaged by utility vehicles and equipment. Call before you dig! Electrical wire continues underground from the transformer to your home. Never dig in your yard without first calling 8-1-1 to mark underground utility lines.
“Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” is coming to Wentzville Wentzville Christian Church proudly presents a community theater production of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” May 5-7. The church will offer four performances of the musical: May 5 at 7p.m.; May 6 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; and a special matinee on May 7 at 2 p.m. Admission to the performances is free and open to the public. Seating is first come, first served. Doors open 30 minutes before each performance. This is the 11th year the church has produced a full-length Broadway musical to share with the community. WCC’s production of Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” last spring is nominated for 18 awards by the Arts for Life Theater Recognition Guild; and drew almost 2,400 people in four performances. This year’s production features a talented cast of over 40 drawn from the church and surrounding area, along with an 18 piece orchestra (which includes members of the St. Charles Municipal Band). “Joseph” features a lot of fun and energetic songs and music; along with lots of humor, dancing, costuming, great sets and an inspiring message. Wentzville Christian Church is located at
1507 Hwy. Z (1 mile south of I-70). For more information call 636-327-6622 or visit wentzvillecc.org.
www.CenterPointeHospital.com
APRIL 2017 | CROSSROADS | 5
Simon Says
Surviving tornadoes, snow and babies in Wentzville
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ell, hello Western St. Charles County. I’m back! I’m sure you have all missed me the last seven months or so but have no fear, I have returned to inform you all about what’s happening in your area and also to give you a glimpse into me and my life, which let me tell you is thrilling with a seventh-month-old in tow. A lot has happened since I have been gone…a horrendous case of child abuse in the area; the opening of many new businesses in Lake St. Louis, Dardenne Prairie and Wentzville; new road improvements; a winter that felt like spring (we refer to it as “Sprinter” in my household); but the most recent of things to occur was the tornado and subsequent quick clean up in Wentzville to make sure the first ever St. Patrick’s Day event went off without a hitch. Although, someone should have told that to Mother Nature. I mean a tornado on Tuesday and snow on Saturday? Have we all not suffered enough? The day after the tornado I saw the community come alive. Before I had the chance to check in with the Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce (WSCC), of which I am a board member, Kroenke’s Lawn Care, Inc., (Owner Dale Kroenke is also a WSCC Board Member and he is a huge benefit to our community) showed up and immediately went to work clearing debris around the area. The WSCC was hit from flying metal from the Chic Lumber store that sits behind the chamber parking lot. Part of Chic’s metal came crashing down on top of the chamber kitchen, which now has a large hole in the ceiling to view the outside. Free skylight! All joking aside, the kitchen is uninhabitable but the chamber office still remains open for business. Many of the surrounding areas were affected by not only the tornado but strong winds and heavy rains forced the uprooting of large trees, caused buildings to sustain damage and broken windows and closed streets for debris and cleanup. Speaking of closing streets, another story of community togetherness worth sharing is how the principal and assistant principal of Heritage Elementary personally walked a group of students home the afternoon of the tornado. According to the Wentzville School District Face book page, “A group of Heritage Primary students were personally escorted home yesterday by Principal Geri Buss and Assistant Principal Jimmy Evrard when their school bus couldn’t access their street that was closed during cleanup from Tuesday’s early morning tornado in Wentzville.” The end of the post read #WSDcares and I would have to agree. To have two school representatives provide safety and security to their students by walking them home is above and beyond in this day in age. I commend you, Principal Geri Buss and Assistant Principal Jimmy Evrard, for adhering to your standard of excellence and showing our community what coming together to work for the common good looks like. It’s an amazing task to clean up after a tornado but apparently, no task is too big for the folks who brought you the St. Pat’s festival. Just four days after a tornado, the first ever St. Patrick’s Day event was held 6 | CROSSROADS | APRIL 2017
Photos courtesy 70 West Sentinel
in Downtown Wentzville. Guinness Run, parade with floats and full out two-day festival full of Irish food and beer, live entertainment and so much more was held in the streets of downtown Wentzville. Any organization, association, club, etc., that can pull off an event of that caliber just days after a tornado has my full respect and applause. Kudos to the Wentzville Downtown Business Association and all others that helped make the festivities fun for all, despite our hormonal weather patterns. As I leave you this month I say not goodbye, but I’ll be back! May is just around the corner which means more festivals, parades, runs, and events in general will be taking place in your area and lucky for you, you have me to fill you in on all the must-do’s for the season. As always thank you CrossRoads readers, for keeping this publication a huge success and for keeping a gal like me in the position to keep writing for you. Talk to you next month! Until then… BY LAURIE SIMON
Laurie Simon was just married and is settling into blissful newlywed life. She enjoys laying by the pool with friends, getting away to her family lake house on weekends, walking her four-legged baby Maggie and spending every second possible with her new husband.
Nonprofit Profile
acts like a for-profit company – even though it is nonprofit
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ighthouse for the Blind-Saint Louis, also known as LHB Industries, Inc., is a not-for-profit entity functioning like a for-profit company to advance a charitable social services mission. It is one of the nation’s top providers of emergency preparedness kits to help people survive earthquakes, hurricanes, tornados, blizzards, floods, accidents, terrorist attacks and building lock-downs. The brand is Quake Kare/Emergency Ready. (https:// www.quakekare.com).
LHB also produces the popular Tear Mender brand of non-toxic, all-natural adhesive and sealants for repairing clothing, fabrics, footwear, leather, upholstery, vinyl and other items for indoor and outdoor use. The company is releasing Simple Bond, an all-purpose adhesive later this month. Simple Bond coupled with Tear Mender will provide customers with a total repair package. (https://www. tearmender.com). In addition to these useful products, the 48 legally blind employees at LHB plants in Overland and Berkeley, produce medical kits; catheters; aerosol and liquid paints; aerosol and liquid cleaners; adhesives; eco-
friendly products; and others for business, consumer and government customers nationwide. (http://www.lhbindustries.com). Founded in 1933, LHB is a 501(c)3 organization that helps people who are visually impaired maintain dignity and independence by offering employment, education and support services. All sales revenues from LHB, Quake Kare and Tear Mender directly support LHB’s 16 different Blind Community Outreach Programs. These “See the Future” programs serve children and adults who are legally blind and visually impaired in Missouri and Southwestern Illinois. John Thompson, LHB president, says, “A few years ago, we chose to boost our commercial business by evaluating potential acquisitions of established for-profit companies whose operations would be a good fit and create revenues to support our nonprofit mission. Two acquisitions now help us achieve that goal.” In 2014, LHB purchased Quake Kare, Inc., which was based near Los Angeles. Quake Kare today provides more than 100 customand pre-packed disaster preparedness kits for virtually any type of crisis. In 2015, LHB acquired all assets of Val-A Chicago, Inc., producer of the well-known Tear Mender brand of non-toxic, all-natural adhesive and sealants. “Our acquisition and integration of Quake Kare and Tear Mender are natural expansions of LHB manufacturing operations in St. Louis because kit and product assembly are among our core competencies,” Thompson says. Brian Houser, LHB director of sales and marketing, says. “Quake Kare has been busy since a fleet of semi-trucks unloaded Quake
Submitted photo John Thompson, Lighthouse for the Blind-St. Louis president.
Kare inventory in St. Louis after we acquired the company. Sales spike whenever an earthquake, bad flood or destructive tornado occurs. We take pride in ensuring our customers are prepared to survive the unexpected.” “Our acquisition of Tear Mender provides LHB with a line of adhesive and sealant products that are popular with consumers,” adds Houser. “It’s a good fit for us – Tear Mender sales have been steady ever since we acquired the company’s assets.” Thompson says, “We are very proud of our skilled employees in our production plants, and we are proud of our mission-specific staff members who develop, sustain and provide our service programs for the blind community in Missouri and Illinois.” In January 2017, LHB was honored with the 2016 Employment Growth Award by National Industries for the Blind (NIB), the nation’s largest employment resource for people who are blind. The award recognizes LHB’s success to increase employment retention, growth and upward mobility for people who are blind. Quake Kare and Tear Mender products can be purchased online and at leading retail locations nationwide. Please see http://www. lhbindustries.com or call 800-542-3697. APRIL 2017 | CROSSROADS | 7
Always An Adventure
JUST A
FEW MORE MILES… IT WAS MID-APRIL, AND WINTER HAD MOSTLY FADED INTO A PLEASANT SPRING. A few token ski lifts were still running, catering to the dwindling cadre of local die-hard skiers who were content to slide down the dirty-colored slush that remained on the mountains. Temps were in the mid-50’s, the sun was out and I decided to take the bike out for short ride to celebrate the return of riding season. Digging the riding gear out of its seasonal grave in the back of a closet took little time. I had recently serviced the machine, including the installation of new tires, so the pre-ride checkout was minimal. Not planning on going far, I expected to be back in an hour, maybe two... Once underway, my riding skills returned quickly from their winter dormancy as the machine warmed up to operating temperature. Throttle, clutch and brakework progressed from rough and jerky, to smooth and precise, coordinated with leaning into turns—a three-dimensional symphony of motion. The feeling of moving on two wheels always brings a smile and the first ride of spring is accompanied by a feeling of liberation from a long winter. A half-hour’s ride brought me to an intersection, my planned turn-around point, but I chose a left turn instead, to head up a little-traveled highway with lots of curves. It was a slow and cautious cruise, with much sand, rocks and other winter debris still on the pavement. Another half-hour and I crested a pass with a stunning view. Lots of snow still on the ground, but the pavement was dry. There were a few more clouds in the sky, but nothing threatening. Just a few more miles, and I would turn around… Five miles down the other side of the pass, a gravel road I had not been on before beckoned on the right. Just a few miles down there and I would turn around… 8 | CROSSROADS | APRIL 2017
Several miles later, I made the commitment to just go ahead and ride to the other end of the gravel, as I knew it led to an interstate highway which would bring me back to the state highway where this trip started. It would be a longer loop than originally planned, but since I was this far along, why not? The gravel road turned out to be much, much longer than I realized. While I knew it would lead to the interstate, my limited knowledge of having seen the road on a map (which I did not have with me) did not match the reality of the length and condition of the road. The road passed through many miles of remote forest land. Many curves and rough surface conditions kept the pace very slow. The afternoon grew late, and the few clouds from earlier became a solid, dark overcast ceiling which began to spit rain and snow. Before long, the snow became moderately heavy, and then it became a wet, soggy blizzard. In short order, my two-wheeled travel down a remote forest road in the mountains went from being a liberating spring ritual, to an unpleasant experience, to an impossible task. Visibility went to zero, just as the sun set. My face-shield was plastered with slush on the outside, and totally fogged up inside. I wrestled the machine off to the side of the road, found a solid spot to set the kickstand, and waited for the storm to subside. There were no trees to hide under, with sagebrush my only
companion. My waterproof-breathable riding suit performed just fine, as I stayed dry, though not particularly warm. Once the snow storm had passed, I began riding again, though even slower than before. The dirt road surface had softened with all the moisture, and had a thick layer of slush on top. Much of that mud, snow and rock mixture packed up under my front fender and rubbed two deep grooves into my brand-new tire. One would have thought that the European manufacturer who had pioneered the socalled “Adventure-Touring” bike would have made it a little more compatible with rough conditions. While it was, and is, an excellent multi-purpose street bike, the concept of a 600 lb. dirt bike is a figment of effective marketing and wishful thinking. The dirt road finally turned to pavement just shy of the interstate that eventually took me home. I stumbled in the house after 10 hours on the road, much worse for wear. It took a couple weeks and a new front tire before I was able to venture out again. BY AVALANCHE
Avalanche is a functional illiterate who left the St. Louis area three decades ago in search of adventure. He enjoys motorcycling and all things outdoors. He lives with his wife and dogs.
Moore On Life
Nobody’s fool HAVE YOU NOTICED that April Fool’s and Tax Day fall in the very same month? Coincidence? I think not! So to commemorate this fluky occurrence, I’m going to combine the two and observe both at once – kind of like combining an all-you-can-eat dessert bar with a laxative. One is fun while the other is a real bummer! To begin with on my tax forms, I will take huge deductions on my dependents. Scooter and Ticker are my pudgy, pot-bellied cat dependents. They cannot survive without me. All they are able to do is consume and collapse. Oh, there is the occasional movement and repositioning of their body mass, but this occurs only when they fill their doodie box or hack up a fur ball on my freshly cleaned floors. They are totally dependent on me. I assume the IRS personnel will get a giggle-snort out of this. Next, when my tax forms are finished, I will proceed to cut them up into tiny jigsaw puzzle pieces and pour them into a large envelope along with a note instructing the tax examiner that some assembly is required. That should be effective for a few good belly laughs. If I owe money, I might send in a big fat check written on a rubber beach ball to ensure it will bounce. I think that would be wildly entertaining for those sour-faced auditors, who look like they’ve been sucking lemons and downing vinegar shots. I suspect it will bring a hearty chuckle and crack their stony faces, which would be wildly entertaining for me to watch. Of course there are other options to consider. For kicks, perhaps I’ll send in a variation of some of the following to cover the fee: Mason jars filled with pennies; a few baseball cards; a variety of valuable Beanie Babies; a number of grocery coupons; a couple of Taco Bell gift cards and a handful of arcade tokens. But realistically, the IRS agents would come to my house grimfaced and not chortling as expected. They would hit me with a nasty audit; slap a lien on my house; garnish my wages; repossess my cats; seize my commemorative Elvis plates and then confiscate my Kohl’s Cash! Wait! From my cold dead hand! Those April fools just can’t take a joke!
WWW.BABYKIDEXPO.COM
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.
APRIL 2017 | CROSSROADS | 9
historic A improvement By Brett Auten
The nation’s first Vietnam War Memorial in Wentzville is being expanded and improved for 50th anniversary
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joint-effort between several public bodies has resulted in a much-needed update to the Vietnam War Memorial in Wentzville. And it couldn’t have come at a more apropos time. The Vietnam War Memorial – located adjacent to the Wentzville Fire Protection District headquarters on West Pearce Boulevard – is the site of the nation’s very first Vietnam War Memorial. This year will mark the 50th anniversary of both the Vietnam War and the city’s memorial. In preparation for this landmark anniversary, the city of Wentzville allocated funds to expand and improve the memorial. Michael Rhoades is a Wentzville Alderman and was one of the lead figures in kick-starting the project. “I am really proud of the support we had in this,” Rhoades said. “It was a struggle with some things. I have been on the board for three years and in my first year I began to notice – and heard about – the need for improvements. I want to recognize the other board members in supporting this initiative. Without them, this wouldn’t have gone through. This is a prime example of teamwork.” A survey was completed and it was determined that a portion of
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the Vietnam War Memorial was located on property owned by the WFPD. The WFPD agreed to donate the necessary property to the city to allow the improvements to be made. In a joint statement, the WFPD board members, Jennifer Houston, Frank Grassmuck and Bob Hawkins, said: “We recognize the significance of this site as it is home to the very first Vietnam War Memorial in the entire United States. We want to honor our veterans and continue our positive working relationship with the city of Wentzville.” Through the survey, it was also determined that a small portion of the property utilized by WFPD was, in fact, owned by the city. In the spirit of cooperation, the city deeded this property to the WFPD. “We are passionate about the memorial and want to make it a firstclass tribute to our Vietnam War veterans,” Wentzville mayor Nick Guccione said. “We sincerely appreciate the cooperation extended by the Wentzville Fire Protection District to aid us in this important endeavor. I think it will be a great representation of our city and it is good for the community.” Guccione estimated the price for the new memorial to be in the $83-84,000 range. The new memorial will be a half-circle with added flower boxes and benches and a much-larger American flag. The
memorial will still consist of a single column of red Missouri granite, topped by the carved figure of an eagle. Inscribed in the column’s base is: “Vietnam Veterans Memorial December 1967 ‘Whither thou goest, I will go.’ Ruth 1:16” Work on the memorial is expected to be completed in time for the annual Run for the Wall event, which will make its 2017 stop in Wentzville this spring. Ron Owens, Chairman of the Run for the Wall, couldn’t be more pleased that the project will be completed in time for this year’s May 22 event. “As the city grows, I want the memorial to be noticed, and one way is the Run for the Wall,” Owens said. “This is something the city can be proud about and honor all of the veterans in the process. I think it was a real good thing that the city took over, got the bids and got the construction phase going.” For the 29th year, riders will be making a stop in Wentzville to visit the nation’s first Vietnam Memorial before continuing on a 10-day journey to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C. More than 400 motorcycles usually take part in the Run for the Wall. Run for the Wall began in 1989 when a group of about 20 people made the first trip across the United States. The group’s Wentzville stop has been part of the event since the very first year. The 10-day trip ends at the Lincoln Memorial and the participants then walk to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall for a ceremony. The Wentzville Vietnam Veterans Memorial is located at 209 W. Pearce Blvd. Originally dedicated on Dec. 2, 1967, the site was initially established as a tree of lights by local residents to raise fund to send Christmas gifts to community servicemen stationed in Vietnam. Enough funds were raised to send the care packages, as well as place
“As the city grows, I want the memorial to be noticed...”
Standing behind a model of the expanded Vietnam War Memorial in Wentzville are (from left) Dave Boland with the American Legion, Wentzville Alderman Michael Rhoades, Wentzville Mayor Nick Guccione and Ron Owens with the VFW.
a small monument next to the tree. By December 1968, a 30-foot tree had been donated to replace the original tree of lights and two local artists provided a sculpture to sit beside the tree. Over time, however, the tree died and the memorial was subjected to repeated vandalism. Residents convened once again to plan a more permanent structure, which was dedicated in 1984. To commemorate the 25th anniversary of the memorial, a three-day celebration, designated “Operation Silver Star,” was held in the fall of 1993. In 2015, directional signage was placed throughout the community to guide visitors and residents to the memorial.
Photos by Ray Rockwell
APRIL 2017 | CROSSROADS | 11
Business
WESTERN ST. CHARLES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Serving Wentzville, Lake St. Louis, and Dardenne Prairie
Chamber hosts nine ribbon cutting/ground breaking ceremonies The Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce hosted nine ribbon cutting ceremonies or ground breaking ceremonies for West Community Credit Union, Orangetheory Fitness, Universal Creative Concepts – Cindy Wooten, Wentzville Fire Protection District, En-Gravs, Heartland Women’s Healthcare, Kokomo Joe’s, Wentzville Music, and The Medicine Shoppe. 1. West Community Credit Union celebrated a ground breaking ceremony in Lake St. Louis on Jan. 12. Their new building is now under construction at 101 Pond Fort Trail in Lake Saint Louis.
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2. Orangetheory Fitness opened at 6307 Ronald Reagan Drive in Lake St. Louis. For more information please call them at 636-614-4040. 3. Universal Creative Concepts – Cindy Wooten can be reached at 314-775-9193 for all your promotional item needs. You can reach her at wooten@uccadv.com or online at www. uccpromos.com. 4. The Wentzville Fire Protection District celebrated a ground breaking ceremony in Lake St. Louis on Feb. 16. Their new fire house is now under construction at 8210 Orf Rd. in Lake St. Louis. 5. En-Gravs is open at 1201 Wentzville Pkwy. in Wentzville. Call them at 636-327-3933 or visit them online at www.engravs.com. 6. Heartland Women’s Healthcare is located at 1603 Wentzville Pkwy. in Wentzville. Call them at 877-456-2496 or visit them online at www.usaobgyn.com.
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7. Kokomo Joe’s is located at 4105 N. Cloverleaf Dr., Ste. B in St. Peters. Call them at 636-447-5656 or visit them online at www.escapology.com. 8. Wentzville Music & Academy is located at 702 West Pearce Blvd. in Wentzville. Call them at 636-327-7017 for lessons, instruments, sheet music and more. 9. The Medicine Shoppe is located at 149 Pond Fort Trail in Lake St. Louis. You can reach them at 636-321-1001 or online at www.lslmedshoppe.com. 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 and video of these recent ribbon cuttings please visit the Chamber Facebook Page. For more information please call the chamber office at 636327-6914 or visit the chamber online at http://westernstcharlescountychamber.com. 12 | CROSSROADS | APRIL 2017
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Business
Serving Wentzville, Lake St. Louis, and Dardenne Prairie
Annual chamber awards handed out at Celebration Ball The Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce bestowed its annual awards at their Celebration Ball held on Feb. 18 at 18 North Central located at 18 North Central in O’Fallon. The Celebration Ball is the WSCC Chamber’s annual awards ceremony. There was dinner, entertainment, live auction, derby races for entertainment after the awards, a selfie/photo wall, drinks, dessert and fun. This year the chamber selected the following businesses, organizations and individuals as award winners: • Large Business of the Year: Poage Chevrolet • Small Business of the Year Award: Pinot’s Palette • Above & Beyond Business of the Year Award:
Alter’d Décor & More • Chamber New Business of the Year: Lake St. Louis Neighbors • You Made it Happen Award for Positively Impacting the Community: Crossroads Arts Council • Chamber Volunteer of the Year Award: Dianna Bridgins, Beehive Promotions • Tony Awards: Andrews Academy The chamber also awarded Chamber Superlative Awards that evening that consisted of: Most Likely to Give You the Shirt off their Back – Jeff Unterreiner; Most Chamber Spirit – Jill Ruggeri; Gives the Best Advice – Angie Harness; and Most Community Spirit – Master Y Kim’s World Class Tae Kwon Do. Photos by Dave Moody Photography Pictured at the Celebration Ball – Top: Poage Chevrolet. Bottom: Alterd Décor and More.
Western St. Charles County Chamber to offer four scholarships The Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce is offering four scholarships for local high school seniors to use towards furthering their education. “The chamber’s over 680 members are very supportive of our local students and want to help them succeed in their education and career goals,” said Tony Mathews, President/CEO of the Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce. “Our selection committee is hoping to receive many great applications this year.” The chamber will be awarding four $750 scholarships. To be eligible a student must live in Wentzville, Lake St. Louis or Dardenne Prairie or be the child of a WSCC Chamber Member. Students can download an application from the chamber website at http://westernstcharlescountychamber.com. Applications are due by April 14 to the Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce at 207 South Linn Ave., Wentzville, MO 63385. For more information call the chamber office at 636-327-6914 or visit their website http://westernstcharlescountychamber.com.
Wentzville EDC Business Spotlight Sunrise Donut Café is owned by Piseth Sar and his wife. They purchased the business in November 2016 from the previous owners. Located at 714 W. Pearce Blvd., the business makes donuts, pigs-in-a-blanket and croissant sandwiches, and biscuits & gravy. What is unique to their business is that everything is made fresh-from-scratch every morning. Anything not sold that day is provided to a local service station. The owners came from the Dallas area where they previously owned a donut business. They loved the area, the neighborhood, and its customers and decided to relocate here. They are offering various promotions to broader their customer base. Come visit them at the western edge of Historic Downtown Wentzville. You won’t be disappointed!
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 www.westernstcharlescountychamber.com. Located at 207 South Linn Avenue in Wentzville.
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Advertiser Profile
First-time RV’ers… confused?
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By Russ Patton, owner of Byerly RV
he number of first-time RV buyers continues to grow. The Recreation Vehicle Industry Association reports that shipments are at the highest level in 40 years. Smaller motorhomes and travel trailers are leading the way. And those who started small in the last couple years are trading up to larger RVs with more space and features. So many families are eager to buy a new RV, but it can be confusing with such a variety from which to choose. All RVs are not alike and neither are all RV dealers. Since many first-time buyers’ inexperience leads them to rely upon price and size to make a decision, some dealers focus only on entry-level, lower-cost RVs. The new buyers get their education in the campground and many wish they had shopped a bit more carefully. Savvier first-time buyers can save a lot by checking out late-model RVs traded-in at dealers who offer a more complete selection of vehicles. Byerly RV, in Eureka, always has a good selection of late model trade-ins. Some of them are like new and hardly used. For almost 70 years Byerly RV has learned to shop hard to provide our customers the best value. Some competitors say we are more expensive. Not true. We didn’t grow to become one of the Midwest’s largest RV dealers by charging higher prices. In fact, we offer 15 models of new travel trailers for under $20,000. We shop for the best quality at the best price. Sure, we sell luxury motorhomes like Tiffin and Entegra for over $500,000. We do it because we can! The best manufacturers want to be on Byerly’s lot. Byerly offers a dozen models of motorhomes from 23 foot to 40 foot. In fact, Byerly RV has been the largest Class A motorhome dealer in the state of Missouri for years. How to decide? Compare Google ratings on local dealers. For instance, at last glance, the big national chain outlet showed 2.8 out of five. Does that sound good? Customers’ comments explain the ratings. Local dealers are family owned and dedicated to our local customers. Buy Missouri and the money stays in Missouri.Check us out at www.byerlyrv.com.
Automobile Alley
THE 2017 MAZDA CX-3 DELIVERS ON THE PROMISE OF BIG THINGS IN SMALL PACKAGES
It’s a small package overall; however, it’s loaded with “big car” features. I’m referring to the 2017 Mazda CX-3 subcompact crossover. Now in its second model year, this product is a proven road warrior for just about every driving surface you’re up against. First shown in the fall of 2014, at the Los Angeles International Auto Show, CX-3 basically mystified the crowd. The front view of the CX-3 is designed to commence a bold look that suits the model’s overwhelming sporty proportions. The front grille has seven fins with available silver-painted front edges to create an expression of energy that flows horizontally. The signature “wing grille” surround is somewhat pronounced and threedimensional. It forms the starting point for a powerful sense of speed that flows across the entire body. With the larger Mazda CX-5 as a possible benchmark, CX-3 carries its styling and framework forward, with its elongated engine hood bonnet, short body overhangs,
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large wheels and a slim cabin design. The proportions overall tend to help set the stage for CX-3 to telegraph a sense of strength and vitality as well as conveying an impression of constant motion. This is even more prominent under nighttime lighting with CX-3’s high luster paint finish. The outer body has a sleek look achieved by blacking out the vehicles side D-pillars. Frankly speaking, CX-3 is sort of a “mini-me” version of their larger CX-5 compact SUV. It’s shorter and lower but tends to deliver a similar driving experience - in part, due to the availability of their predictive i-ACTIV all-wheel-drive system. Powering CX-3 is their spirited 146-horsepower, 2.0-liter SKYACTIV-G engine. All versions come with a six-speed automatic transmission. EPA numbers come out to be 29-mpg city/34-highway with the frontwheel-drive setup. CX-3 was developed to deliver a rich, inviting experience for the driver and all occupants. Seating is comfortable with extra cushy padding and high seat backs in front. The rear seats are positioned slightly inboard to ease conversation between front and rear passengers. It’s a vehicle with interior details that look and feel quite upscale and elegant. This further includes attractive dark red seat stitching as well as soft touch materials. The dash controls are well thought out. The large window glass gives an outstanding field of view. In the quickly growing subcompact crossover segment, CX-3 stands alone in part due to attention to detail, purposeful ergonomics and welcomed amenities from bumper-to-bumper.
The driver-oriented interior comes with soft touch-points including available raised stitching on the gauge cluster housing, among other interior componentry that further gives the feeling of tailored craftsmanship. CX-3 illustrates the “Mazda Premium” philosophy. It’s defined as giving the customer an intimate cabin environment, designed to feel timeless and personalized, catering to those who sweat the details and crave not just a mode of transportation but an experience and expression of their personalities. The all-wheel drive system can adjust power output more than 200 times per second, using 27 different variables, to “predict” what road conditions are ahead. Offered in three trim levels; Sport, Touring and Grand Touring, their base model pricing starts out at $19,960. 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. APRIL 2017 | CROSSROADS | 15
Entertainment
Jeff Nichols: master chronicler of our countryside His movies are difficult to market, but he’s had some of the best in the business that continue to back up his reputation. Jeff Nichols is a filmmaker originally from Little Rock, Arkansas and all five films he directed - and scripted - take place in rural America. His stories and characters are thoughtfully drawn in ways that could only be from a bit of personal experiences. With uncommon depth, he has a welcoming way of presenting them to the audience. Nichols cuts straight through any stereotypical thoughts giving us wholesome - and honest - views of where his characters are coming from. It’s not just the settings that make his films fresh, but the journeys his characters must take. It’s also refreshing to know that big name actors love taking their chances with Nichols and his films. Bottom line, we need an original filmmaker like Jeff Nichols in the mainstream of movie making.
“Shotgun Stories” (2007) His first film, “Shotgun Stories,” was shot in Arkansas on a very low budget and came out in 2007. The little seen film features an early breaking turn from Michael Shannon as the film’s lead. The story is about the rising tensions between two sets of half brothers after the death of their father. Shannon’s’ performance proved him worthy as a fine lead just two years before his Oscar Nominated performance in “Revolutionary Road.”
“Take Shelter” (2011) Jeff Nichols reteams with Michael Shannon who plays a family man plagued with recurring apocalyptic nightmares and hallucina16 | CROSSROADS | APRIL 2017
tions. As he questions his own sanity (as does the town and his own family) his dreams continue to get worse and decides to build a storm shelter on his family’s property - nearly costing them everything they have. Jessica Chastain (during her rise to fame) turned in a highly effective performance playing the wife and mother of his children. The film won many awards from the numerous film festivals with some Oscar-worthy praise for Shannon’s performance.
Lieberher) with strange special powers while the feds and a religious cult are hot on their trail. We soon realize one of the men is the boy’s father trying to keep him from out of harms way as a certain unknown event continues to loom over them. This event turns out to be a special place they must get to in time that is vital for the boy’s survival and the answer to his true identity. The cast also includes Kirsten Dunst, Adam Driver and Sam Shepard.
“Mud” (2013)
“Loving” (2016)
This was the year of Matthew McConaughey - not just for his starring title role in “Mud,” but also this was the year he won the Oscar for Best Actor for “Dallas Buyers Club.” While exploring an island on the Mississippi River, two teenage boys meet the mysterious Mud living in a boat lodged in a tree (from a previous flood). The boys make a pact with Mud to help keep his whereabouts hidden from mysterious vigilantes while also finding his lost love, Juniper (Reese Witherspoon). This complex coming-of-age drama – and thriller - is a cult classic for Nichols as he brings out the best from his cast including a standout performance from the young Tye Sheridan.
Jeff Nichols takes on his first biography to make – what turned out to be – his most urgently popular film yet. “Loving” is the true story about Richard and Mildred Loving (Joel Edgerton and Ruth Negga) the interracial couple whose marriage was forbidden in the state of Virginia. They were arrested and incarcerated which led to the famous Supreme Court case Loving vs. Virginia, the case that would ban any laws that forbade marriages between people of different races. The film was received numerous award nominations including an Oscar Nomination for Best Actress (for Ruth Negga) – the first Oscar nomination for a Jeff Nichols film.
“Midnight Special” (2016) While this road trip thriller does have science fiction elements with some action beats, Jeff Nichols always puts his story and characters first. This time we have a story that picks up on a plot already in motion. It first appears that two men (Michael Shannon and Joel Edgerton) have kidnapped a boy (Jaeden
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.
ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES W I T H
POTATOES Potato Prosciutto Waffles Yield: 6 | Prep time: 20 minutes | Cook time: 5 minutes
Delicious and nutritious, it’s no wonder potatoes are a menu staple for many. Everyone craves meal variety, and potatoes offer a perfect canvas to inspire new flavor exploration so you can enjoy something different every day. From russets, reds, yellows, whites and purples to petites, fingerlings and more, there are multiple varieties to keep dishes interesting.
Ingredients: 1/4 pound thinly sliced prosciutto 3 medium russet potatoes (or 3 cups mashed potatoes) 1 teaspoon salt, plus additional for salting water 1/2 cup milk 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted 2 large eggs, beaten 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese 1 tablespoon fresh thyme 3/4 cup all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Directions: Heat oven to 400 F. Line baking sheet with parchment paper and evenly lay prosciutto on paper. Bake 1015 minutes until prosciutto is crispy. Remove from oven and allow to cool. Peel and cube potatoes. Place in pot of salted water and bring to boil over high heat.
For the Love of Food
You might be used to preparing this kitchen staple mashed, baked or fried, but these inventive recipes show how easy it is to incorporate flavors and techniques to create new potato dishes for any meal of the day in 30 minutes or less. Find more meal ideas featuring a variety of potato preparations at PotatoGoodness.com/explore.
Once boiling, reduce heat to rapid simmer and cook until potatoes are fork tender, about 10 minutes. Strain potatoes from water and transfer to large bowl. Mash potatoes with fork or potato masher. Add milk, butter, eggs, cheese and thyme to potatoes. Stir to combine. In separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, 1 teaspoon salt and pepper. Add to potato mixture and stir until just combined. Crumble prosciutto and fold it into batter. Heat waffle iron. If required, grease with cooking spray. Spoon about 1 cup batter onto waffle iron and cook according to iron’s instructions until waffles are golden, about 4 minutes. Keep waffles warm in 200 F oven until all waffles are cooked and ready to serve. Serve with touch of butter, sour cream or poached or fried egg. Nutritional information per serving: 332 calories; 16 g fat; 109 mg cholesterol; 1,138 mg sodium; 13% vitamin C; 32 g carbohydrates; 3 g fiber; 15 g protein; 653 mg potassium.
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Medical Memo
BETTER BALANCE FOR HEART HEALTH
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When it comes to creating and maintaining healthy habits, all the admonishments to “stop this” and “don’t do that” can be overwhelming. While there are some things you do need to cut back on, finding better balance is the true key to better heart health. You may be surprised by the things you should actually do more of in your pursuit of a healthier lifestyle. With these tips from DSM Nutritional Products, you can put a priority on your health. Increase your stress-busting activity. Whether you favor exercise, yoga or meditation, finding effective ways to channel your stress can help support the health of your heart. It’s no secret that stress makes your blood pressure rise, and that puts extra strain on your heart. Soothing your nerves keeps your stress in check and moderates your blood pressure. Remember that managing your stress doesn’t even have to be a formal activity; you may find relief from simply relaxing with a book or a cup of tea, or enjoying casual time with loved ones. Whatever strategy works for you, try to make a stress-reducing effort part of your everyday routine. Balance your caloric intake. Instead of viewing weight management in terms of what you can’t have or have to do, consider thinking of your diet as a teeter-totter that you need to keep in balance. Overeating and indulging in nutrient-poor foods makes one side drop, but physical activity and regular
exercise brings the other side down. Strive for a balance so you’re burning the calories you’re taking in; consume fewer calories and exercise more to help support a balanced weight. When it comes to the calories you consume, be sure they’re from nutrientrich sources so your body reaps maximum benefits from its fuel. Check your omega-3 levels. Omega-3 fatty acids are a family of polyunsaturated fats, including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), that numerous studies have shown to have heart-health benefits. More specifically, supportive but inconclusive research shows omega-3s EPA and DHA may help to reduce the risk of coronary artery disease – the leading cause of death among both men and women, according to the Food and Drug Administration and the American Heart Association. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna, anchovies and sardines, as well as vegetarian sources like algae. If you don’t eat fish on a regular basis, you can find high-quality supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish oil or algal oil. Be sure to consult your health care provider before starting any supplement program, and ask your health care practitioner to check your omega-3 levels to make sure you are getting enough heart-healthy fats in your diet. Learn more at knowyouro.com. Photo courtesy of Getty Images
Community Calendar
April 6 – National Tartan Day 7 –Underwater egg hunt What’s pools of fun for kids ages four-to-12? It’s the O’Fallon Parks and Recreation Underwater Egg Hunt at the Renaud Spirit Center (RSC) at 2650 Tri Sports Circle in O’Fallon. The event will be held from 6 – 8 p.m. and the Easter Bunny is sure to be there. The cost is $12 for O’Fallon residents and $15 for non-residents, and pre-registration is required by March 31. For the hunt, kids will be divided into age groups to search for eggs, and prizes will be awarded after the eggs are collected. Kids should bring swim goggles and a waterproof container for egg gathering. Parents can register kids at the Renaud Spirit Center, or online at www. ofallon.mo.us/parks&rec. Select “Special Events” and look for Underwater Egg Hunt, course number 410104-A. Family members who want to swim but who are not participating in the egg hunt can register for $5 (410104-B). For more information, please call front desk staff at 636-474-2732. 8 – Veterans connect event Veterans Connect is a special, one-of-a-kind, free event that will connect our local veterans with the benefits that are available to them at the St Charles Community College/Student College Center Building at 4601 Mid Rivers Mall Dr. in Cottleville from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. The event will have several information booths and companies providing free suits for veterans for job interviews. Provided by Dress for Success/Connections to Success. They will also provide information stating all the benefits and classes they provide for veterans. Money Management Education; there will be classes how to rebuild your credit, and a lot more. Education Information; veteran friendly schools, St Charles Community College and Ranken College will be there
providing class information and to answer questions regarding the GI Bill. Free food will be provided. Veteran information will be provided by the following attendees: St Charles County Workforce Development, Missouri Veterans Commission, St. Louis Police Academy Recruiter, VA Home Loan Specialist, Commerce Bank, St. Joachim & Ann. Many other veteran related information will also be provided. For more information visit http://veteransconnectevent.weebly.com/.
11 – Passover (first day) 13 – Thomas Jefferson’s Birthday 14 – Good Friday 16 – Easter Sunday 18 – Tax Day 21 & 23 – Choir concert Choral Arts Singers, Francis Howell North High School Concert Choir, and members of the St. Charles Symphony will perform Joseph Haydn’s “Kleine Orgelmasse mass in B/Bflat Major” and other selections on April 21 at 7:30 p.m. at Zion Lutheran Church at 3866 S. Old Hwy 94 in St. Charles, and April 23 at 2 p.m. at Assumption Chapel at 403 N. Main in O’Fallon. Admission is $7 for adults and $3 for children (ages six-18). For more information visit www.concertarts.org. 26 – Administrative Professionals Day 28 – Arbor Day
APRIL 2017 | CROSSROADS | 19
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