CrossRoads: February 2021 by Community News

arecreation makeover

FEBRUARY

2021 writers

VOL 17 | NO 2

BY AVALANCHE

Published monthly with newsstand circulation to Wentzville and Lake Saint Louis plus newsstands in O’Fallon, Troy, Lake Sherwood and Augusta.

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.

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Mathew DeKinder Publisher Emeritus/ General Manager Robert Huneke

ALWAYS AN ADVENTURE – PG. 12

BY CINDY MOORE

MOORE ON LIFE – PG. 13

Production Manager Rebecca Brockmann Contributors Avalanche, David Finkelstein, Cindy Moore Staff Writer Brett Auten

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.

BY DAVID FINKELSTEIN

For advertising information, please contact us at:

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

www.mycnews.com

Copyright 2021 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.

David Finkelstein is a Master/ Skill Automotive Service Technician and a shop owner. He’s also invented garage service tools for mechanics and has served on both National and local Automotive Trade Industry Boards. He pioneered “Car Talk Radio” starting out with KMOX/CBS Radio and hosted “Auto Talk” on KFTK/FOX News Radio for 15-years. David tests and evaluates new vehicles weekly and does some consulting with various auto manufacturers.

AUTOMOBILE ALLEY – PG. 14

BY STEVE BRYAN

ENTERTAINMENT – PG. 15

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Born and raised in South St. Louis, Steve Bryan is now based in Anaheim, California, and has been allowed access to movie and television sets to see actors and directors at work. Though his writing has taken him far from St. Louis, Steve is, at heart, still the same wide-eyed kid who spent countless hours watching classic movies at neighborhood theaters.

FEBRUARY

2021

contents

Around Town Local news and events

Feature Story A recreation makeover Riverside Landing on the Mississippi River is being developed into several small and large campsites that can accommodate RVs, day-use picnic areas, a walking trail and a play area for children

Always an Adventure Less than one inch of snow possibleâ&#x20AC;Ś

Moore on Life Day tripping

Automobile Alley 2021 Toyota C-HR infuses a sport coupe personality with crossover versatility

Entertainment Highly anticipated movies slated to arrive in 2021, 2022

For the Love of Food Power family meals with protein-packed peanuts

Community Calendar: February

On the Cover: Submitted photo

FEBRUARY 2021 | CROSSROADS | 3

Around Town

Progress West Hospital welcomes first baby of 2021 Progress West Hospital welcomed its first baby of 2021 on New Year’s Day. Waylon Mulherin was born at 4:13 p.m. and weighed six pounds, nine ounces. Waylon is pictured with mom Lily Alford and nurse Jenni Koskela. Submitted photo

Congratulations!

Building homes and strengthening communities through homeownership While many people may dream of owning a home but don’t think they meet the criteria or qualifications necessary to achieve that goal, Habitat for Humanity of St. Charles County provides tools, resources and support for the potential path to homeownership. The nonprofit organization is accepting new homeowner applications through Feb. 28. A homeownership informational meeting via video conference is scheduled at 6 p.m. on Jan. 26, and Feb. 23.The Habitat for Humanity of St. Charles County Homeowner Selection Committee and Habitat St. Charles staff members will be on hand to field questions about the Homeownership program and application process. To RSVP, contact Shana Eubanks at shana@habitatstcharles.org or call 636-978-5712, extension 118. To review qualifications for Habitat homeownership, visit habitatstcharles.org In addition, together with community partners, Habitat for Humanity of St. Charles County offers free financial coaching and skills to everyone who enrolls in the Homebuyer Readiness Program. Participants learn about credit, debt, budgeting, setting goals and saving money with comprehensive workshops and oneon-one coaching. “The cold days of winter offer the reminder that a safe, warm and comfortable home may be attainable through the Homeownership program,” said Michelle Woods, executive director, Habitat for Humanity of St. Charles County. “Through our programs, we are excited to lead our neighbors into financial independence for affordable, stable housing that supports our mission to enhance lives, foster relationships and build the community one home at a time.” Habitat for Humanity of St. Charles County builds safe, decent and affordable homes with hard-working families in St. Charles County. The nonprofit community-level affiliate acts in partnership with and on behalf of Habitat for Humanity, an international, nongovernmental, nonprofit organization devoted to building strength, 4 | CROSSROADS | FEBRUARY 2021

stability and self-reliance through shelter. Habitat for Humanity of St. Charles County has built 89 homes for Habitat families since 1997, with more than 2,000 volunteers donating 14,000 hours each year. Habitat for Humanity of St. Charles County offers a ‘hand up’ opportunity that transforms lives, builds a strong foundation and forges lasting relationships with communities for a bright future. Applicants and co-applicants selected for a Habitat home agree to perform a minimum of 150 “sweat equity” hours each, for a total of at least 300-450 hours, in the building of their home or other Habitat projects. In collaboration with community partners, Habitat for Humanity of St. Charles County offers free financial coaching and skills to potential homeowners through the Homebuyer Readiness Program, in which participants learn about credit, debt, budgeting, setting goals and saving money. In addition, the organization guides homeowners through an affordable mortgage repayment process. To help fund and support these efforts, Habitat for Humanity of St. Charles County operates the Habitat St. Charles ReStore http:// habitatstcharles.org/restore/, a retail outlet located at 186 Mid Rivers Center in St. Peters. ReStore, which opened in 2007, has diverted over 100,000 tons of waste from local landfills by selling donated new and used building materials, appliances, furniture and select home goods items back to the general public at fair prices. Funds raised allow Habitat for Humanity of St. Charles County to be selfsustaining, with nearly 100 percent of every dollar donated going directly toward building simple, decent, affordable homes for deserving families in St. Charles County. In addition, Habitat for Humanity of St. Charles County hosts an annual Frame the Future Gala as its premier fundraiser in November, a trivia night each spring and sponsors Women Build, an international effort to empower women to help families build strength, stability and independence through hands-on learning.

Around Town

WSD receives clean ‘unmodified’ financial audit The Wentzville School District received a clean audit of its financial records, accounting practices and compliance with state and federal requirements during the fiscal year that ended June 30, 2020. The audit, which was conducted by the Daniel Jones & Associates accounting firm and approved by the WSD Board of Education, reported no findings or questioned costs. Derek Gokin, Senior Accountant with Daniel Jones & Associates, reported to the School Board on Dec. 17, 2020, that members of his firm had spent several weeks reviewing extensive documentation from the WSD Finance and Facilities Department. The audit was all inclusive, reviewing everything from whether a purchase order originated following proper procedures, to how a purchase order becomes a check, reviewing bids and contracts, verifying at-

tendance and payroll records, as well as confirming correct receipt of revenue at local, county, state and federal level. “This is great news for the district and a point of pride not just for our department, but for everyone across the WSD, who is charged with managing school and department budgets, as well as our community,” shared Rick Angevine, Chief Financial Officer. “A clean audit is a reflection of our efforts to be good stewards of taxpayer dollars to maintain the trust of our stakeholders. We are mindful of that trust and aim to stretch every dollar to meet the needs of all students.” In 2019-2020, the district’s total operating revenues were $192.6 million. For additional details about the auditor’s report and WSD finances, visit the WSD website.

Payne Family Homes to build 2021 St. Jude Dream Home in Dardenne Prairie With several unique amenities inspired by lifestyle changes in 2020, Payne Family Homes’ 2021 St. Jude Dream Home is sure to be a dream come true for one lucky winner. “The past year has really changed how we use our homes,” said Eva Fryer, VP Construction Operations for Payne Family Homes and eight-time project leader for the St. Louis St. Jude Dream Home. “As our team sat down to design this home, we reflected on how a family who’s spending 24/7 together would use their home while also having the personal space to get away and enjoy some much-needed private time.” The ranch, which is based on the builder’s popular Ashton II model, includes three bedrooms and 2.5 baths on the main floor. Other amenities on the first floor include a dog Photo courtesy city of Dardenne Prairie wash station, a “man cave,” and screened-in porches on the This artist rendering shows the complete 2021 St. Jude Dream Home to be built in Dardenne Prairie. rear of the home and off the owner’s suite. The lower level features a Zoom Room, home gym, family room, wet bar, game area lies in our community and countless others throughout the region. and full bath. In total, the 2021 St. Jude Dream Home offers 3,812 We’re grateful to have the opportunity to partner with Payne Family square feet of living space. Homes to support the work being done by St. Jude.” When selecting a location for the 2021 St. Jude Dream Home, the Payne Family Homes will break ground on the 2021 St. Jude Dream new Inverness home community in the city of Dardenne Prairie was Home at the end of January and will continue construction througha natural choice, according to Payne Family Homes. With safe neigh- out spring. Tickets are $100 and limited to 14,000. In 2020, available borhoods, great schools and convenient access to shopping and ame- tickets for the 2020 St. Jude Dream Home sold out in 15 days. Though nities, the city of Dardenne Prairie is a dream location for families. ticket sales for the 2021 St. Jude Dream Home begin June 10, ticket Inverness, which is located off Feise and Bryan roads in the Wentzville reservations may be made in advance by visiting dreamhome.org or School District, features several lakes, pocket parks, trails, pedestrian on the St. Jude Dream Home page at paynefamilyhomes.com. Payne arches and other amenities. Family Homes has donated more than $7 million to St. Jude’s ChilTo support the initiative, the city of Dardenne Prairie Board of Alder- dren’s Research Hospital in the seven years that it has built the annual men voted to enter into a Cooperation Agreement with Payne Family Dream Homes. Homes in order to waive the building permit fee. The new home will “Payne Family Homes commits to build the St. Jude Dream Home be located at 106 Royal Inverness Parkway in Dardenne Prairie. year after year because we know we are making a difference,” said “We are honored to have been selected as the location for the 2021 Fryar. “Treatments at St. Jude have helped push the overall childhood St. Jude Dream Home,” said Mayor David C. Zucker. “St. Jude’s Chil- cancer survival rate from 20 percent, when the hospital opened in dren’s Research Hospital has provided tremendous support to fami- 1962, to more than 80 percent today.” FEBRUARY 2021 | CROSSROADS | 5

Around Town

‘A LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL’

First rounds of COVID-19 vaccine are now being distributed to health care workers and people in long-term care facilities in St. Charles County By Brett Auten

Photos courtesy CenterPointe Hospital Employees from Weldon Springs’ CenterPointe Hospital received the first round of the COVID-19 vaccinations last week.

Safer. More secure. Total exhilaration. Those were some of the feelings last week at Weldon Spring’s CenterPointe Hospital as staff received the first round of the COVID-19 vaccine. “They feel that there is a light at the end of the tunnel,” Sheila Hunt, Regional Director of Business Development for CenterPointe, said. “It relieves some of the stress and worry about this pandemic.” CenterPointe staff fall into the Phase 1A category of COVID vaccine administration protocol, which includes direct patient-facing healthcare professionals and individuals who live or work in long-term care facilities. Next, but

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with no set date in site, will be the Phase 1B category which includes, first responders and frontline essential employees supporting critical infrastructure operations, residential care facility residents, assisted living facility residents, and individuals ages 75 and older. In all, around 200 staff members at CenterPointe will be vaccinated. Staff safety has been paramount at CenterPointe since the pandemic began. Recognizing that COVID-19 testing would not be available elsewhere for their staff who were not symptomatic, CONTINUED PAGE 7

Around Town CenterPointe made the decision early during the pandemic to obtain COVID-19 tests on their own so that they could test those staff who were not symptomatic but had likely exposure, which helped them to identify staff with the virus that otherwise would have gone undetected. “The health and safety of our patients and staff continue to be our highest priority,” Dr. Azfar Malik, Chief Medical Officer at CenterPointe Hospital, said. “We are immensely grateful for our CenterPointe staff and all healthcare professionals around the country who put themselves on the front lines of this virus each day.” CenterPointe Hospital is located on a 33acre campus in the Little Hills area along the Missouri River. It is a 150-bed, state-ofthe art, private psychiatric hospital serving the behavioral health needs and addiction treatment of adolescents, adults and senior adults. The St. Charles County Department of Submitted photo Public Health received its first shipment of The St. Charles County Department of Public Health received its first shipment of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine from the State of Missouri the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine from the on Dec. 22 and has begun implementing its distribution plan. State of Missouri in late December and has medical technicians, social workers and other medical professionals implemented its distribution plan. The vaccine is provided at no cost to recipients through the federal govern- directly interacting with patients. School nurses and long-term care facility employees and residents who are not affiliated with the fedment. “With cases of COVID-19 continuing to spread in St. Charles Coun- eral Pharmacy Partnership for Long-term Care Program. ty and around the globe, the Department of Public Health is ex- St. Charles County organizations with employees or residents in tremely fortunate to have been selected as one of only a few local a Phase 1A category and that do not have access to the vaccine health departments in Missouri to receive this initial shipment of through other means should call the Department of Public Health’s vaccine,” Public Health Director Demetrius Cianci-Chapman said. Immunization Clinic at 636-949-1857 to make arrangements for “We have been preparing for this distribution since the early days of the vaccination. Individual employees and long-term care residents the pandemic and are ready to deliver the vaccine to protect mem- should not call the department directly. Both products have received authorization from the U.S. Food & bers of our community.” Drug Administration and have undergone clinical trials and comWith the supply of this initial shipment of vaccine limited, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and State of pleted review by U.S. vaccine safety administrators to ensure its Missouri recommend that direct patient-facing healthcare workers safety. These trials have shown that the vaccine will help prevent and individuals who live or work in long-term care facilities receive COVID-19 infection, lessen the risk for severe complications and hospitalization if the person does become infected, and reduce furit during what is termed Phase 1A. “We’re still in Phase 1A, and will likely remain in this phase for sev- ther spread of the virus to others in the community. Two doses of the vaccine, both injected in the upper arm, are neceral weeks until the vaccine supply increases,” Doug Bolnick, Pubessary for maximum protection and should be issued four weeks lic Information Officer with the St. Charles County Department of Public Health, said. “All of the initial doses that we have received apart. There have been reports of common side effects similar to have either been administered or have been scheduled for admin- those some experience with other vaccinations — including pain and/or swelling at the injection site, fever, chills, fatigue and/or istration.” St. Charles County affiliated staff and organizations who are con- headache. According to the St. Charles County Department of Pubducting COVID-19 vaccine distribution or testing operations in- lic Health, the presence of these common side effects is a sign the clude: paramedics and EMTs working in St. Charles County. Physi- body is building its protection against the virus. cians, dentists, chiropractors, ophthalmologists, physician assistants, For more information, call the St. Charles County COVID-19 Infornurses, nurse practitioners, patient care coordinators, psychiatrists, mation Hotline at 636-949-1899. FEBRUARY 2021 | CROSSROADS | 7

Around Town

Fort Zumwalt High School librarians recognized for creating innovative student environment Fort Zumwalt West High librarians Shannon Grieshaber and Nina O’Daniels were recently honored by the Greater St. Louis School Librarians Organization, which named the West High library the 2019-2020 Secondary School Library Program of the Year. West High Principal Neil Berry was able to present the award on the organization’s behalf. “Shannon and Nina were recognized for engaging students in innovative library programming,” wrote Julie Jamieson, Vice President of the Greater St. Louis School Librarians Organization. “The West High Library is a busy, bustling, and welcoming hub of the school, filled with positive energy and learning. It is definitely a space where the love of reading is nurtured.” Among their innovations, West High’s li-

brarians have brought many changes to the library. The overall organization of the library has been updated with: • Flexible seating (including booths, comfortable seating areas and tables for collaboration), • A collab lab that includes a green screen and meeting tables/TVs for group projects, • Break out boxes and scavenger hunt activities for classes, and

Photo courtesy Fort Zumwalt School District Fort Zumwalt West High librarians Shannon Grieshaber and Nina O’Daniels were recently honored by the Greater St. Louis School Librarians Organization, which named the West High library the 2019-2020 Secondary School Library Program of the Year.

• Google glasses for virtual field trips. Greieshaber and O’Daniels were key to the county’s “One Read” of “The Radium Girls” last fall, bringing together teachers and students at all four Fort Zumwalt high schools

as well as Wentzville Liberty High School and users of the St. Charles City-County Library last fall in a synchronized experience where participants read, studied and discussed the novel by Kate Moore.

Wentzville School District selected to implement two intervention programs The Wentzville School District has been selected as one of three

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school districts in the state of Missouri that will participate in parenthood responsibility programs funded by two million-dollar grants awarded to the Missouri Department of Social Services. The grants, from the Department of Health and Human Services Administration of Children & Families, seek to develop curriculum and implement two new intervention programs: Parenthood Can Wait, and Future Leaders. Students in the district’s Alternative Program will have the opportunity beginning next school year to participate in The Parenthood Can Wait program, which aims to increase youth understanding of the financial, legal, and emotional responsibilities of parenthood. It also gives access to resources that will help students achieve their life goals, build economic mobility and develop into responsible parents. The Future Leaders program is a mentorship program designed for seventh and eighth grade students, which will debut at Wentzville Middle School next fall. First year students of the program will participate in a 13-week curriculum, then mentor upcoming seventh graders during the following school year. “The children of Missouri are the future of our state,” said John Ginwright, Deputy Director of Family Support Division, Child Support Enforcement, “These grant programs help put this generation on the path to reach their highest potential, have healthy relationships, make positive life choices, and be responsible adults.” “We are excited about the addition of these programs in the Wentzville School District,” said Dr. Ben Hebisen, Director of Intervention Services, “The meaningful learning experiences they provide will equip our students with the skills needed to achieve their personal and professional goals and empower them to be successful in life.”

arecreation makeover Riverside Landing on the Mississippi River is being developed into several small and large campsites that can accommodate RVs, day-use picnic areas, a walking trail and a play area for children By Brett Auten

iverside Landing is getting its long-awaited face lift. Development is launching this month as fresh amenities will turn a rather common gravel parking lot into a unique outdoor recreation attraction. The 7.73-acre park - with Mississippi River access - is located between Kampville Drive and Huster Road in St. Charles. The park will be closed for the bulk of 2021 but is expected to reopen within the calendar year. Purchased in March 2018 by the St. Charles County Parks and Recreation Department, Riverside Landing will be developed into several small and large campsites that can accommodate recreational vehicles (RV), day-use picnic areas, a walking trail and a play area for children. Restroom facilities, water and electricity will also be installed. St. Charles County Parks Director Ryan Graham wants Riverside Landing to be the place to go for water sports, camping, fishing, and for anyone who wants to enjoy the great outdoors. “One area that saw growth during COVID was outdoor recreation,” Graham said. “This will be our only park that has RV parking. We expect to have about 20-25 sites for them and we expect them to be popular as people want to get out and experience what all nature has to offer.” For the safety of the public, the park boat ramp, including the dock, boat slips, and kayak launch area, will be unavailable for CONTINUED PAGE 11

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Submitted photos Development began this month at Riverside Landing Park. The park is expected to be closed for the bulk of 2021 and boaters are encouraged to use the departmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s free ramp at Hideaway Harbor Park to access the Mississippi River.

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use. Fishermen and recreational boaters are encouraged access to the Mississippi River using the Park Department’s other free boat ramp at Hideaway Harbor Park, 1550 Hideaway Harbor Drive in Portage des Sioux. “It is a unique park in our system and this is the first step in our Blue Wave network,” Graham said. “We are very proud of over developments. It does take a while to plan, but we don’t go in to debt with them” For construction updates, follow the St. Charles County Parks and Recreation Department on Facebook. Guests also can call the Rainout Line at 636707-0011. Despite limiting program participants and postponing some events because of the COVID-19 pandemic, St. Charles County Parks already has had a record year for attendance. The county’s 17 parks surpassed the 3 million mark at the end of August, and in July, topped the previous record high set last year at more than 2.5 million. The Parks Department went on to over 4.5 million visitors for the year. “We have had very few issues with people not complying with our requests to social distance and they appreciate our extra efforts to ensure their safety,” Steve Ehlmann, St. Charles County Executive, said. “Our park programmers have designed or changed classes and events to accommodate social distancing and our park workers have done an excellent job of ensuring visitors social distance by monitoring and restricting the number of visitors to popular park areas. The addition of three new parks in 2018 have contributed greatly to the increase in visitors this year, as they did in 2019. In August 2018, the Parks Department not only opened Riverside Landing but in September of that year The Park at New Melle Lakes, a 153-acre former golf course in New Melle that offers fishing, kayaking and canoeing, disc golf, trails and more, debuted. In October 2018, the 120-acre Veterans Tribute Park opened in Weldon Spring, offering a destination playground for children of all abilities, the Veterans Memorial Garden, and fishing, trails, a dog park, and shelters. Graham said the Department has received lots of love over the pandemic. “Nature is comforting, and it provides people with the ability to disconnect and decompress,” he said. “Many visitors are finding our parks for the first time, and we’ve heard from others who visited before but didn’t realize all we have to offer.”

St. Charles County Parks Director Ryan Graham wants Riverside Landing to be the place to go for water sports, camping, fishing, and for anyone who wants to enjoy the great outdoors.

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Always An Adventure

LESS THAN ONE INCH OF SNOW POSSIBLE… Photo by Avalanche

BY AVALANCHE

STACI AND I HIKED UP THE HILL FOR A LATE LUNCH at our friends Paul and Jo’s house, located a mile past the end of winter road maintenance. Lots of snowmobile traffic had packed the snow down to a level surface suitable for walking without snowshoes or skis. Tracks in the snow told the story of a couple of vehicles, SUV’s from the looks of the tread, had foolishly tried to make their way up the steep, unplowed mountain road. One had wisely turned around a short distance up the grade, while the other made it about two-thirds of the way up the mile-long hill before spinning out, and somehow turning around and going back down without ending up a casualty in the steep ditch along the road. It brought back memories from three decades earlier when I was that foolish driver who just had to drive his brand new (to me) truck up that hill, only to be painfully educated in the ways of gravity and ice, ending up with my truck front end pointing into the ditch, and the rear end pointing nearly straight up in toward the sky. After a long day of cutting trees and digging out a path, I got home with just a little sheet metal damage, a bruised ego and a healthy respect for the mountains. Some lessons have to be learned the hard way. The afternoon was quite pleasant, with the day clear and good food and company. Paul and Jo’s local general store had become a casualty of COVID, and they had to shut the doors and sell the building at a gut-punch of a loss. A brutal disappointment, it was over and done with, and they didn’t have to worry about it anymore. Spending time out in the remote high country with friends seemed to help, and they were looking forward to something else, whatever that might be. Talk turned to the on-going drought. A storm was approaching in a couple days, but not much precipitation was in the forecast. It seemed that no matter where one looked, everything was out of sorts. At least we were (and are) still healthy and aren’t missing any meals. As we headed down the mountain before dark, the snowpack on the road was freezing up, turning the out-of-place tire tracks into 12 | CROSSROADS | FEBRUARY 2021

solid deep trenches. Those trenches are not appreciated by the locals who have to use the road to get up and down by snowmobile or other tracked vehicle. A couple days later the predicted storm arrived, and by 9 a.m. there were already a couple inches of snow at our house. Staci had driven her front-wheel-drive car to work in town, which wouldn’t likely make it back up the hill to our house if the snow continued, so I drove a truck to town and swapped vehicles with her. I made it back up our road - just barely - with the undercarriage of the low-slung car dragging in the fresh snow. It continued to snow for the remainder of the day. I plowed our driveway and part of the road once, and the snow kept coming. Staci decided to stay at work late to avoid traffic on her way home. She made her way up the hill about 9 p.m., and was dragging the underside of my full-sized pickup. Out I went with the skid steer to at least clear a path for anyone else to get in the neighborhood. An hour later I came home, with nothing but a bucket-wide path from the highway up the hill to show for it. The next morning it was almost impossible to tell where I had plowed. Some folks were able to get to the highway, simply because it was all downhill from their homes. Most people decided that working from home was the better – and only – option. My day was occupied with snow removal, as we received well over a foot of the white stuff. Paul and Jo later told me they had gotten on their ATV outfitted with tracks, and went out during the night storm, down the nowsmooth hill and around the nearby little town. No one was out, and they were able to enjoy being the only people out on the roads, floating and churning their way on top of the thick blanket of snow. We’re hoping for another dozen or so of these storms this winter. This last dump moved us up to 65 percent of normal snowpack. It was a welcome step in the right direction, and an event that made everyone smile, if just for a few moments.

Moore On Life

Day

tripping BY CINDY MOORE

HERE IT IS! MY CHRISTMAS WISH: all I wanted was for 2020 to be over and it’s gone! There isn’t a thing I’ll miss about it…well maybe one thing – no more pumpkin spice. But it’s time to move on. In with the new and out with the old! Meaning: I need to clean out my closet and the refrigerator. First the closet. Out it all goes. I have so few items that I wear: day pajamas and night pajamas. Of course, if I’m going on an adventurous outing, I’ll change. For instance, when I’m taking the garbage can out to the curb, I don’t want to look schlubby. I’ll scrunch my hair into a messy bun and dress up in my stretchy sweatpants and head out, all because Mrs. Pilkinson next door is so judgy.

That was easy, now on to the refrigerator. I tossed out a bunch of expired items: pickled beets, green salsa, leftovers from Thanksgiving. I’ve saved everything just in case we had to live off it or maybe use them to barter with. In the process of doing this I noticed an almost empty jug of milk. “Hey Sweetie,” I yell to my husband. “We’re low on milk!” “Okay, then let’s take a trip to the store today.” “Really? Do you mean it?” “Of course I mean it.” “I’m so excited.” “Why would that excite you?” “Because we’re going on a trip. That means we can leave the house. I’m going to get out of these pajamas and dress up in my sweat-

pants. First, I’ll need to run them through the dryer to freshen them up a bit.” “Fine, but let’s make a day of it then. I need to fill up the car.” “What?! A bonus outing? A gas station vacation?! I better shower then, even though there are still three days until Saturday. Hey, maybe we can pick up something at McDairyKing and have a parking lot picnic.” I was totally stoked. I got ready and met my husband at the door. “Um, you do realize you have your big fuzzy cat slippers on?” he said. “Duh, ya. I wasn’t going out in my bare naked feet. I may have been away from civilization for a year, but I’ve still retained my dignity.”

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Automobile Alley

2021 TOYOTA C-HR INFUSES A SPORT COUPE PERSONALITY WITH CROSSOVER VERSATILITY

Toyota Motors really stepped up their game by introducing the well-executed 2021 C-HR sport hatchback subcompact crossover. This vehicle infuses a sport coupe personality with crossover car like versatility. Now entering its fourth model run since introduced in 2018, the unique, boldly expressive and fun to drive C-HR is positioned in a class with the Kia Soul, Fiat 500L, Mazda CX-3, Mini Cooper Countryman, Honda HRV, Jeep Renegade and the Subaru Crosstreck. When it comes to overall styling, this exciting vehicle really stands out in the subcompact crossover category. Designers utilized expressiveness with the slim LED headlights that wrap deeply into the sides of the hood as they run rearward along the fender tops. Curvy character lines emerge from a prominent Toyota badge on the front fascia and lead into the body. These lines continue below the side windows where they join a high beltline and distinctive C-pillar with hidden type design door handles. This sport coupe’s persona is especially evident in the fastback style roof, highly sculpted wide body rear quarter panels and a lip spoiler on the hatchback. At the roof’s edge, a color matched cantilevered wing tapers neatly inboard. Base pricing starts out at $21,445. If you elect to choose the top-end Limited model, the pricing reflects $26,500. All editions are 14 | CROSSROADS | FEBRUARY 2021

only manufactured with front-wheel-drive. That’s likely in the plus column! Case in point, how often do we really need AWD? All-wheel-drive adds to the complexity and weight of the vehicle, it accounts for some service procedures to be much more difficult and it generally impacts fuel mileage in a negative sense. Furthermore, if one tire needs to be replaced, all four may need to be acquired with various AWD models. This head-turning Toyota is engineered to seat five. However, based in fact that we’re dealing with the laws of physics, rear seat interior space is somewhat limited. Therefore, comfort levels for four adults is more realistic. Rear cargo space comes out to be just over 19 cubic feet. That all changes if you fold forward the rear seatbacks as the cargo carrying capacity elevates to a respectable 37 cubic feet. Overall, the interior is designed with mostly quality materials and some touch points are designed with soft surfaces. The center storage compartment and glove box are fairly large and the dash gauges and controls are user friendly. The large high mounted touch screen helps improve smartphone integration, infotainment and navigation maneuvers. Voice recognition is also included with this technology as is interior climate controls, satellite radio and other features. Powering the C-HR is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 144-horsepower. It

is linked with a continuously variable automatic transmission, as the fuel mileage shows 27-mpg city and 31-mph highway. These numbers are about average with other vehicles in this grouping. Acceleration is acceptable but if you’re expecting a rapid launch from a dead stop, you may be slightly disgruntled. Certainly in the plus column is its comfortable ride and driving dynamics. The FWD chassis tends to give you a positive feel, even on wet pavements. Breaking is more than adequate and Toyota’s list of standard safety enhancements further raises the bar when it comes to a confident driving feel. Standard is a comprehensive suite of active safety systems that includes: rearview camera, forward collision warning, emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning and lane keep assist, automatic high beam headlights, adaptive radar guided cruise control and seamless automatic road sign monitoring. Four trim levels are offered, the LE, XLE, Nightshade and their Limited versions. The C-HR is covered by Toyota’s 36-month/36,000 mile basic new vehicle warranty. Additionally, the powertrain coverage is for 60-months or 60,000 miles. The C-HR also comes standard with ToyotaCare, covering normal factory scheduled maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles, and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years, unlimited mileage.

Entertainment

HIGHLY ANTICIPATED MOVIES slated to arrive in 2021, 2022

“Top Gun: Mavrick” courtesy Paramount Pictures; “Ghostbusters: Afterlife” courtesy Columbia Pictures; “Avatar 2” courtesy 20th Century Studios; “Black Widow” courtesy Marvel Studios

BY STEVE BRYAN

f all the industries affected by the pandemic, film production, distribution and exhibition took a harder hit than most. 2019 was a banner year for seeing movies in theaters, and the future looked just as bright going into 2020. With many venues forced to close for health and safety reasons, however, the business model shifted to more on-demand and streaming platforms. That’s why “Wonder Woman 1984” debuted simultaneously on AT&T’s HBO Max as well in theaters that are currently open. Other highly anticipated movies are still waiting to make their debut, though. “Top Gun: Maverick,” the sequel to the iconic 1986 airborne adventure, was scheduled to arrive on July 12, 2020, but its release date shifted to July 2, 2021. Tom Cruise returns as Captain Pete “Maverick” Mitchell, a flight instructor and pilot who, according to the trailer, is as cocky as he was more than three decades ago. Maverick must deal with his former rival, Admiral Tom “Iceman” Kazansky (Val Kilmer) and the son of his deceased RIO (Radar Intercept Officer) Goose in the sequel. “Ghostbusters: Afterlife” has been delayed so many times it almost gave up the cinematic ghost, but it’s currently slated for a June 11, 2021 release. The 2016 reboot of the franchise with a female-centric cast failed due to poor writing and direction and had little in common with the previous films. In contrast, “Afterlife” focuses on a family with ties to one of the original Ghostbusters. The trailer which played

in theaters shows the iconic “Ectomobile” and Paul Rudd as a helpful teacher and fan of the original Ghostbusters crew. Further out is “Avatar 2,” the sequel to James Cameron’s groundbreaking and visually stunning 2009 film. Slated for a December 2022 release, the story focuses on Jake Sully (Sam Worthington), a human who travels to a planet called Pandora as part of the Avatar Program. Though he is supposed to spy on the native people, Jake falls with a local named Neytiri (Zoe Saldana) and chooses to stay inside his Avatar body. After 13 years together, though, enemies from the past return to Pandora to settle old scores with Jake and his family. “Avatar 3” already is in the works and more sequels are scheduled. Natasha Romanoff (Scarlett Johansson) is an accomplished assassin and Avenger, but even she is helpless against shifting release schedules. Slated for a May 2021 release, “Black Widow” gives Romanoff a solo film that delves more deeply into her past than she herself has revealed thus far. In the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), the action takes place after the events in “Captain America: Civil War” and shows Romanoff dealing with issues from her past. The release dates mentioned above are, of course, subject to change. It has become more common for studios to look to streaming platforms and other outlets to reach a wider audience. I am hopeful that as 2021 progresses, movie fans can see at least some of these films in an actual theater. FEBRUARY 2021 | CROSSROADS | 15

For the Love of Food

POWER POW ER FAMILY MEALS with protein-packed peanuts S

tarting fresh with a new year is a chance to hit the reset button for many people, and your family can use this opportunity to rethink homemade meals while striving for nutritious (and still delicious) dishes. From snacks to the main course each evening, the options are nearly endless for planning a revamped menu with healthier ingredients. Dinnertime can be a cinch with Peanut Butter Chicken, a simple dish that takes less than 20 minutes to make when busy evenings call for a quick solution. If a veggiebased option aligns better with your family’s desires, try Veggie Sammies with Peanut Butter Satay Sauce or go full-on comfort food with Very Vegan Peanut Butter Jackfruit Chili. Snacking doesn’t have to mean forgoing your dedication to nutritious choices either – these Peanut Granola Bars can be your made-at-home masterpiece for adults and children to enjoy. These recipes from the Georgia Peanut Commission are powered by peanuts, a nutrient-rich superfood that delivers 19 vitamins and 7 grams of protein per serving for a health benefit punch in each bite. Discover more nutritious recipe ideas at gapeanuts.com.

Very Vegan Peanut Butter Jackfruit Chili Recipe courtesy of the National Peanut Board Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 35 minutes | Servings: 8 Ingredients: 2 teaspoons oil 1 can whole tomatoes 2 cups water 1/2 large white onion, chopped 1/2 green bell pepper, chopped 1 can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped 1 can green jackfruit, drained and 2 garlic cloves, chopped chopped 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 cup peanut butter 1 teaspoon cumin cornbread (optional) 1 teaspoon chili powder tortilla chips (optional) 1 tablespoon tomato paste cinnamon rolls (optional) 1 can crushed tomatoes Directions: Heat large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add oil, onion and peppers; cook 3 minutes, stirring often. Add garlic, salt, cumin, chili powder and tomato paste, stirring to coat. Cook 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, then stir in crushed tomatoes, whole tomatoes, water, kidney beans and jackfruit; bring to boil then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer 25-30 minutes. Stir in peanut butter and simmer 5 minutes. Serve with cornbread, tortilla chips or cinnamon rolls, if desired.

16 | CROSSROADS | FEBRUARY 2021

For the Love of Food

Veggie Sammies with Peanut Butter Satay Sauce Prep time: 30 minutes | Servings: 2

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 6 minutes, plus cooling time Servings: 12-14 Ingredients: 1/2 cup honey 6 tablespoons unsalted butter 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter 1/2 cup light brown sugar, firmly packed 1 teaspoon vanilla 1/4 teaspoon salt

Ingredients: 4 tablespoons creamy peanut butter

1/2 cup cucumber, sliced

3 tablespoons lime juice

1/2 cup white onion, sliced into thin strips

2 tablespoons water 4 teaspoons hoisin sauce 2 teaspoons soy sauce 2 teaspoons sriracha 2 French baguette rolls (6 in. each)

Peanut Granola Bars

1/2 cup red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips 1/2 cup purple cabbage 1/2 cup fresh cilantro

Directions: In small bowl, combine peanut butter, lime juice, water, hoisin sauce, soy sauce and sriracha; mix well. Spread sauce on both sides of each roll then layer with cucumber, onion and bell pepper. Top with cabbage and cilantro.

2 cups rolled oats (quick or regular) 1 cup bran flakes 1 cup sweetened coconut flakes 1 cup dried fruit (raisins, blueberries or cranberries) 1 cup roasted peanuts, chopped

Directions: In large, shallow, microwavable dish, combine honey, butter, peanut butter, brown sugar, vanilla and salt. Microwave at 50% power 2 minutes then whisk to combine and microwave at 50% power 2 minutes. Add oats, bran flakes, coconut flakes, dried fruit and peanuts; stir to combine. Microwave on high 1 minute. Stir and microwave 30 seconds. Press mixture into 13-by-9-inch baking dish lined with parchment or wax paper with some extra hanging over edges to easily lift bars out. Use bottom of glass wrapped with plastic wrap to press granola mixture firmly into pan. Allow to cool completely 30-45 minutes. Cut into 12-14 bars.

Peanut Butter Chicken Recipe courtesy of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Unsophisticookâ&#x20AC;? | Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 12 minutes | Yield: 6 cups Peanut Sauce: 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter 3 tablespoons sweet red chili sauce 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon honey 1/8-1/4 cup hot water (optional) chopped unsalted roasted peanuts (optional)

Chicken: 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced into 1-inch cubes 1 tablespoon soy sauce 3/4 cup peanut sauce cooked brown rice assorted bell peppers, sliced chopped unsalted roasted peanuts (optional)

Directions: To make peanut sauce: In small glass bowl, whisk peanut butter, sweet red chili sauce, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce and honey until blended smoothly. Thin sauce with hot water to desired consistency. Garnish with chopped unsalted roasted peanuts, if desired. To make chicken: In large skillet over medium-high heat, drizzle oil. Add diced chicken then pour soy sauce over top. Saute about 10-12 minutes until chicken is fully cooked. Serve with peanut sauce, brown rice and colorful sliced veggies. Garnish with chopped unsalted roasted peanuts, if desired. FEBRUARY 2021 | CROSSROADS | 17

Around Town

18 | CROSSROADS | FEBRUARY 2021

Community Calendar

February

National Freedom Day

Groundhog Day

Rosa Parks Day

National Wear Red Day

Chinese New Year

Valentine’s Day

Presidents’ Day

Ash Wednesday FEBRUARY 2021 | CROSSROADS | 19

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