Getting their backs
AUGUST
2022 writers
VOL 18 | NO 8
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
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Community News 2139 Bryan Valley Commercial Dr. O’Fallon, MO 63366 Ph: 636.379.1775 Fx: 636.379.1632
www.mycnews.com
Copyright 2022 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/ Skilled Automotive Service Technician and retired shop owner. He's invented garage service tools for mechanics, served on both nation and local automotive trade industry boards, has done years of consulting with various auto manufactures plus test drives new vehicles weekly. David has pioneered "Car Talk Radio" over 35 years ago, as his new show "Automotive Insight" can be heard on Saturdays, on the Real Talk Radio Network.
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.
AUGUST 4
Around Town Local news and events
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Community Calendar: August
2022
contents
10
Feature Story GETTING THEIR BACKS Project Backpack furnishes area support services with backpacks filled with essential supplies for children who are removed from their homes
12
Always an Adventure American Family Truckster
13
Moore on Life Going loopy
14
Automobile Alley 2023 Kia Sportage combines off-road confidence with cutting-edge design
15
Entertainment Remembering James Caan
16
For the Love of Food Pop up cooking creativity
On the Cover: Photo by Nathan Porter
AUGUST 2022 | CROSSROADS | 3
Around Town
PAST Meets thE FUTURE
Where the
By Brett Auten
St. Charles County Parks Department to open Oglesby Park, named for a former slave who owned a farm on the park’s location near Foristell BARBARA LOVE CAN HARDLY WAIT. “I am counting down the days and the minutes,” Love said from her home in Wentzville. Love is the great, great granddaughter of Benjamin Oglesby, one of the most inspiring stories in St. Charles County lore and Oglesby's life and memory will be at the forefront when the St. Charles County Parks Department opens its newest park on July 30. Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, the St. Charles County Parks Department is opening its newest park on July 30, with a dedication ceremony to honor former property owner Benjamin Oglesby, for whom the park is named. Oglesby Park will be located at 2801 West Meyer Road near Foristell and is the park system’s 18th open park. Oglesby was born a slave in 1825 in Bedford, Virginia, and was brought to Missouri in 1837 at the age of 12. He worked on a 4 | CROSSROADS | AUGUST 2022
farm near present-day I-70 and Highway W in the Foristell/Wentzville area. In 1864, at the age of 39, Oglesby fled captivity and enlisted in the Union Army in St. Charles. His wife and children remained in captivity while he went through basic training in St. Louis to eventually fight for their freedom. Oglesby was assigned to the 56th United States Colored Infantry and was honorably discharged in 1865. After the Civil War, according to the 1870 census, Oglesby, his wife, Martha and their six children – Medora, Samuel, Oskar, Bell, Albert, and Charlie – worked on a farm in Hickory Grove Township in Warren County. In 1871, he purchased 146 acres of land in Foristell. He financed the property through a $2,000 Deed of Trust and paid off the property six years later. Oglesby farmed the land that is now the park for 30 years. His wife died in 1900, and he died in 1901. He is buried in Smith Chapel Cemetery, a mile from his farm.
The Oglesby children owned the property through the mid-1900s. “They could have named this park after anyone but (the Parks Department) they had the willingness and compassion to pay tribute to him,” Love said. “When I think about him, being born in one of the ugliest times in American history and him being instrumental in changing that history, it makes me proud beyond words and should inspire everyone. No one should have to experience all the things he went through.” No known photos of Oglesby exist. “We would love to have a picture,” Love said. “We did find a picture (of the 56th United States Colored Infantry) but you do not know who's who.” St. Charles County Executive Steve Ehlmann said the park combines the beauty of nature and the history of the county. “Oglesby Park represents a lot of what CONTINUED PAGE 5
Around Town
St. Charles County is about: bridging the county’s rich history with its bright and growing future,” Ehlmann said. “It is important to commemorate the opening of the park with Benjamin Oglesby’s family and to be able to share his story with park visitors. We are pleased to honor a man who realized the American Dream in St. Charles County at a time when many, because of their race, were not able to do so.” The park event is planned from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. that day with the dedication at 11:30 a.m. Festivities will include fun and games for the entire family.
SUBMITTED PHOTOS: The St. Charles County Parks Department is opening its newest park on July 30, with a dedication ceremony to honor former property owner Benjamin Oglesby, for whom the park is named. Oglesby Park will be located at 2801 West Meyer Road near Foristell and is the park system’s 18th open park.
Oglesby Park’s 199 acres include a playground, natural surface and paved trails, a lake, shelters, and restroom facilities. The park will remain open until 30 minutes after sunset that day; normal hours are daily from 7 a.m. to 30 minutes after sunset.
“This is a great tribute to a man who fought for his life, for his family and for his country, and became successful in life despite all odds,” District 1 County Councilman Joe Cronin said.
The St. Louis Food Bank distributes food at Wentzville United Methodist Church
The monthly distribution of food via The St. Louis Food Bank was made at the Wentzville United Methodist Church in July. This month's food distribution consisted of
mainly fruits and vegetables. The STL Food Distribution occurs every second Monday of the month in the church parking lot on a first-come-first-serve basis.
This is a drive-thru community mobile market. For more information, please call the church at 636-327-6377. AUGUST 2022 | CROSSROADS | 5
Around Town
Tackling head injuries
By Brett Auten
Duchesne High School football players are some of the first to wear new state-of-the-art helmets that reduce the risk of head trauma Football's reputation has taken a hit this decade. Over the last ten years, tackle football participation has dropped dramatically for a handful of reasons, near the top of the list is player health. According to the National Federation of State High School Associations, high school involvement has dipped to its lowest level since 2000, and the figures for young contact football are particularly alarming. The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFSHSA) reported the first drop in high school sports engagement in 30 years in September of 2021. Football was the greatest contributor to the drop, as the number went from around 7.98 million to around 7.94 million, a gap of 43,395 people. As per the NFSHSA, high school football involvement fell by the biggest drop ever since the 1999-2000 school year. Despite the decline in participation, the number of schools with conventional 11man football teams has increased and a local high school is boasting new high-tech helmets that will increase safety on the field for its players Duchesne’s varsity football players will soon be among the first students in the area to hit the field with new state-of-the-art helmets specifically fitted for each individual to reduce the risk of head trauma. The helmets, manufactured by Riddell, are made by taking a detailed 3D image of each player’s head. A specialty helmet is created from the 3D model, resulting in a piece of gear that is a perfect fit and more efficient at protecting the player from injury. The helmets are listed online for around $750 apiece and not all varsity players will be wearing them. Duchesne Coach Vince Morris said that cutting-edge equipment like these helmets may help to get more students interested in joining the football team who may have been wary of injury in the past. “That is almost twice the cost of a regular helmet,” Morris said. “But it's the right move to make. The only way to increase participa6 | CROSSROADS | AUGUST 2022
Recycle Works Central collects household hazardous waste from St. Charles County residents The St. Charles County Division of Environmental Health and Protection reopened the collection of household hazardous waste (HHW) materials at Recycle Works Central, located at 60 Triad South Drive in St. Charles.
SUBMITTED PHOTO: Duchesne sophomore Sam Jost sits patiently while Riddell representative Jason Pearce scans a 3D image of his head. Duchesne’s varsity football players will soon be among the first students in the area to hit the field with new state-of-the-art helmets specifically fitted for each individual to reduce the risk of head trauma.
tion is to make it safer.” The helmets also feature a visor and a face mask that is designed to transfer the force of an impact away from the front of the head. According to Riddell, the Axiom helmets took more than three years to design, which included lab testing and three extensive field tests with more than 200 players across the country at different levels of the game. What really makes these new helmets unique is the inner pads, which are fitted to the player’s head and made of a polyurethane solution. These custom pads are engineered to lessen the impact of helmet-to-helmet contact, which is one of the most common causes for concussions in football. Duchesne is one of the first high schools in the area to incorporate this new equipment into its football program, with Lindbergh and Vianney being the others. Future versions of the helmet will include a chip that tracks impacts, repeated contacts, and other analytics that can be used to help make the game safer. “The kids are stoked,” Morris said. “This is a trendsetting helmet. This is the first year it is being used in high schools. Only four colleges used them last year.” Morris is taking over for legendary coach Charlie Elmendorf, who announced his retirement earlier this year after 26 years. Morris began his career nine years ago at Tolton Catholic High School. He spent six years there as an assistant coach before moving on to St. Louis' Vianney High School for three years in the same role.
How to safely dispose of HHW through Recycle Works Central St. Charles County residents may bring HHW items to Recycle Works Central for safe and proper disposal between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., Tuesdays through Fridays, until Sept. 30. There is a $25 fee (payable by cash or check only) for loads up to 50 pounds and an additional $1 fee for each pound of material over 50. To ensure safety, please follow these precautions when loading and transporting HHW for collection: 1. When possible, leave the material in its original container. Items not in original packaging should be labeled clearly with a description of contents. 2. Secure the lid tightly. 3. Do not mix waste with other materials. Mixed waste in plastic bags or other containers cannot be accepted. 4. Place secured containers inside a box lined with newspapers. Fill gaps between containers with additional newspaper to help prevent spilling or tipping during transport. 5. Place the box in the trunk of your vehicle and transport it to the facility. 6. Upon arrival, follow posted instructions and remain inside your vehicle until assisted. “When residents declutter, they often discover cans from old painting projects, leftover pesticides, and unwanted automobile fluids,” Ryan Tilley, Director for St. Charles CONTINUED PAGE 7
Around Town
Youth Tour delegates return to Washington, D.C.
Continued from page 6 County’s Division of Environmental Health and Protection notes. “If these or other hazardous materials were thrown in the trash — or worse yet, dumped on the ground or into sewers or waterways — they could harm the environment and poison people or their pets. Since beginning this program in 2005, we have safely disposed of more than 700,000 pounds of hazardous material to protect our community and preserve our planet.” Additional items collected Along with HHW, Recycle Works complements curbside recycling efforts and accepts many items at little to no cost to St. Charles County residents. Residents may bring these materials to Recycle Works Central:
SUBMITTED PHOTO: Cuivre River Electric Cooperative sponsored six students to attend the National Youth Tour Conference June 13-19 in Washington, D.C. Pictured (from left) standing in front of the U.S. Capitol Building are Reese Ramler (Liberty High School), Ella Murphy (Liberty High School), Josie Hoskins (Troy Buchanan High School), Jamie Jarvis (Jarvis Homeschool), Madelyn Brune (Clopton High School) and Kaitlyn Benesek (Liberty High School).
Ninety-three high school students participated in Missouri's 59th annual Missouri Electric Youth Tour to Washington, D.C., June 13-19. Local delegates sponsored by Cuivre River Electric Cooperative (CREC) were Ella Murphy, Kaitlyn Benesek and Reese Ramler, all of Liberty High School; Madelyn Brune, Clopton High School; Josie Hoskins, Troy Buchanan High School and Jamie Jarvis, Jarvis Homeschool. After two years of virtual tours, the Youth Tour headed back to Washington this year. The seven-day tour provides an action-filled week for high school students, offering them opportunities to learn firsthand what it is like to be involved in politics, leadership positions, community service and today’s pressing issues. “The Youth Tour is the highlight of the summer for many students and we’re proud to send our best and brightest to our nation's capital to participate,” said Chris Massman, vice president of member services for the Association of Missouri Electric Cooperatives. Highlights of the trip include the young people visiting with representatives from their congressional districts, touring monuments, the Smithsonian Institution’s muse-
ums, Arlington National Cemetery and for the first time, touring the International Spy Museum. The group also took a sightseeing and dance cruise on the Potomac River one evening. Other events of the week included participation in the Electric Youth Day, during which a special program coordinated by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association brought together over 1,000 Youth Tour delegates from across the United States. The delegates enjoyed featured speeches by government leaders and motivational speakers, such as Mike Schlappi, an inspiring fourtime Paralympic medalist and two-time world wheelchair basketball champion. Since 1964, the nation’s cooperative electric utilities have sponsored more than 55,000 high school juniors and seniors for visits to their U.S. congressional delegations, energy and grassroots government education sessions and sightseeing in Washington. The annual Youth Tour contest is open to students who live and attend school in Cuivre River Electric’s general service area, or who have CREC service in their homes. For more information about the Youth Tour program, contact Tim Schmidt at 800-3923709, ext. 4837 or by email at tschmidt@ cuivre.com.
• Traditional Recyclables: While aluminum cans are the most commonly recycled item, Recycle Works also accepts tin cans, most plastics, clean and useable clothing or other textiles, cardboard and dry paper goods, and more at no charge. • Electronic Goods: Items accepted include appliances, computers and accessories, televisions and more. Some materials are recycled at no charge, while others require a per unit fee. • Fluorescent Light Bulbs: Up to five fluorescent bulbs per month can be recycled by St. Charles County residents at no charge. Additional bulbs and those brought in by commercial organizations are charged a per unit fee. For a complete list of items accepted, visit sccmo.org/RWCentral or call 636-949-1800.
AUGUST 2022 | CROSSROADS | 7
Around Town
BCI earns three-year CARF accreditation CARF International announced that Boone Center, Inc. (BCI) has been accredited for its Organizational Employment, Community Employment and Employment Skills Training programs for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This is the 11th consecutive three-year accreditation that the international accrediting body has given the nonprofit. This accreditation decision represents the highest endorsement that can be given to an organization and shows substantial conformance to CARF standards. An organization receiving a three-year accreditation has put itself through a rigorous peer review process. It has demonstrated to a team of surveyors its commitment to offering programs and services that are measurable, accountable, and of the highest quality. BCI has been providing employment services to people with disabilities in St. Charles County since 1959 and in Lincoln County since 2011. The organization’s main facility is located at 200 Trade Center Drive W. in St. Peters. CARF’s final survey report recognized BCI’s success in key areas including being actively supported by an accomplished board of directors, having a talented and diverse leadership team, operating under a dynamic strategic plan, focusing on core values, operating a state-of-the-art packaging facility, executing a person-centered philosophy throughout the organization, and sustaining a positive workforce and culture.
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SUBMITTED PHOTO: Kelly B. (left), who lives with a developmental disability and works under BCI’s organizational employment program, celebrates her 30th anniversary with Employment Support Specialist Bridget Jeep (right).
“BCI holds itself to the highest standards and is always looking to improve our best practices,” said Social Mission Director Katie Jones, who spearheaded the accreditation effort. “CARF embodies this, which is why we welcome their review. Their process shows us what are we are doing well and what we can improve upon. It offers great insight into what other organizations are doing and allows our unique strengths to be shared. It also shows that we value the input of our clients and are accountable to the community. Needless to say, we are immensely proud to have received CARF’s highest accreditation level for all of the programs we offer under our employment continuum.” CARF is an independent, nonprofit accrediting body whose mission is to promote the quality, value, and optimal outcomes of services through a consultative accreditation process and continuous improvement services that center on enhancing the lives of the persons served. Founded in 1966 as the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities, and now known as CARF International, the accrediting body establishes consumer-focused standards to help organizations measure and improve the quality of their programs and services. For more information about the accreditation process, visit http://www.carf.org/.
Community Calendar
August 4
Coast Guard Birthday
7
Purple Heart Day
19
National Aviation Day
21
National Senior Citizens Day
26
Women’s Equality Day AUGUST 2022 | CROSSROADS | 9
Getting their backs Project Backpack furnishes area support services with backpacks filled with essential supplies for children who are removed from their homes By Brett Auten
T
hey are innocent casualties. Oblivious to the horror and danger around them and left with nothing but the clothes on their back. Started in October 1999, Project Backpack was created solely to help children in the St. Louis and extended area. The organization provides emergency services by furnishing area police departments, social service agencies, domestic violence shelters and Department of Family Services workers with backpacks for children who are removed from their homes. “Their world is crashing down around them and they don't know who, what, when, or where,” Judy Pearlstone, Project Backpack's founder, said. “I know we can't solve all of their problems but if we can be a bright spot, if we can take away a few worries, just for a few minutes, then that is OK by me.” The backpacks are age and gender appropriate and make the transition from crisis situations to foster homes more tolerable. There are times when this is all the children will have with them for who knows how long. The backpacks are filled with any assortment of clothing, toiletries, school supplies, games, books and toys. 10 | CROSSROADS | AUGUST 2022
And now, more than ever, help is needed. “The price of everything has gone up,” Pearlstone said. “Our clients and others are facing a big challenge. They need help on all fronts. Everything goes up and charity donations go down and you can't blame them.” Project Backpack is operated entirely by volunteers and all donations are used to help the children served. “I think we're the best kept secret in St. Louis,” Pearltsone said. “We use every penny we have. No funding. No grant writers." There are two main ways you can help them help others. Become a volunteer and set up time to come to the warehouse and lend a hand, whether it's through administrative tasks or packing. Project Backpack welcomes individuals, employer groups, social groups, groups of friends and families, you name it. One of the few precautions is that all must be able to work in a non-air-conditioned warehouse environment. They also welcome individuals needing to fulfill community service hours. And, of course, money never hurts when it comes to keeping operations running. You can write a tax-deductible check pay-
able to Project Backpack and send it to the office location at 2151 Welsch Industrial Court, St. Louis, MO, 63146 or make a quick, secure donation by clicking on "Support Us" on the website. “No matter how small the gift, Project Backpack appreciates any amount you can share to help kids in crisis and it will make a difference,” Pearlstone said. A wish list, volunteer calendar and more can be found on the website, backpackstl.org, or call 314-993-3033. “I have seen the best of St. Louis,” Pearlstone said. “You often hear complaints that there are people who aren't doing anything. There are many who are dedicated to helping children and so are we.” One of those is officer Shawn Birdsong, who is Project Backpack ambassador for the St. Charles County Police Department. Birdsong and his brethren often see people at their worst. He calls Project Backpack a, “365-day-a-year asset.” Whether it is DFS removing a child from home, a fire displacing a family, or something in need of law enforcement, Project Backpack is at their disposal. “Every community has poverty,” Birdsong said. “We could hand them out all day. And sometimes, all it takes are these small little acts, these small things, that show some humanity and make a connection.” PHOTOS BY NATHAN PORTER : Volunteers work at the Project Backpack warehouse to get backpacks ready for distribution to children in need.
AUGUST 2022 | CROSSROADS | 11
Always An Adventure
American Family Truckster BY AVALANCHE STACI SAW THE TRAVEL TRAILER FOR SALE parked alongside the highway early one morning and called to let me know. I went down to have a look and found the rig to be in good condition with a somewhat reasonable price. I gave the owner a call and we met him a couple hours later. Once we arrived, another couple was already looking at it. They left and we got the tour. It was in good shape, mostly what we wanted, and the price was fair, due in large part to it having a salvage title from some damage to one side from an accident on the dealer’s lot. Several other people stopped to look while we were there, adding to the need to make a decision. OK, we’ll take it. Funds were exchanged a few days later, and now it resides at our house. A bed for us, enough room for the dogs (kinda), and a bathroom. Running water, (hot and cold,) sewer, fridge, even a microwave and air conditioning; we never had any of those amenities in any previous camping we had done over the last few decades. Motorcycles and backpacks were the only things we had brought along on our numerous journeys we had taken in the past. What to do with all this new-fangled luxury? I especially had always sworn there would never be such a contraption in the driveway. Having dodged (successfully) any number of errant RVs in traffic, I was not always a fan. Adding to my dislike was the occasional sewage leaking from
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the lumbering beasts rolling down the highway; such nastiness was not always dodged successfully while riding behind them on my bike. Big campers cannot be taken in the backcountry where we like to go; traveling with such a trailer will be different from what we’re used to. Having said all that, the decline and disappearance of cartilage resulting from several decades of hiking, climbing, hunting and fishing has limited just how far we can get back. The companionship of two giant dogs has also changed just how far and frequently we travel; basically, the big fur balls keep one of us at home while the other one travels, since few friends or establishments enjoy the sometimes-overwhelming canine company as much as we do. Now we have a way for all of us to get out, at least a little ways into the woods. Once we go the rig home, a problem arose – namely, the ground clearance of the trailer was too low to back it down into our rather steep driveway without
dragging parts. Wrestling the trailer down the drive with the skid steer got it to a parking place where I could work on it. A lift kit installed a few days later remedied the problem, with the resulting increase in height necessitating another step to get into the living area. Hmmmm…. A few other odds and ends needed to be repaired, and the newly-dubbed American Family Truckster is ready for the road. The first trip will be for a family reunion of sorts. It won’t be a remote wilderness adventure, but bringing our own portable living quarters and rest stop along will make the trip more enjoyable. With fuel prices going to the moon, long trips will need to be carefully considered, likely declined, and shorter journeys will take precedence. We’re now through the second summer holiday for the season, and there has been a noticeable decrease in the number of tourists and campers here this year. Fuel prices are certainly a factor, but the end of the draconian lockdowns and restrictions made going to concerts, bars, theaters and other gatherings more popular than coming out to the mountains, which suits us fine. It’s still busy here, but not horribly so; more breathing room is good. As I go out on the road with our new rolling campsite, cyclists can take comfort in knowing that I’ll be sure to secure the sewage pipes; we won’t pollute the roadway!
Moore On Life
– BY CINDY MOORE – BABYSITTING DOES STRANGE THINGS TO YOUR MIND.
Going loopy
I recently served hard time…I mean, I had the pleasant opportunity of watching my grandkids for several days. Now I have a loop of kid songs playing over and over in my head. I’ve listened and sung them so many times with the kiddies that they still pop up at the most inopportune times. A few days ago, my husband was deep in discussion about our finances or some other bland thing when suddenly it happened. Husband: “We need to talk about our savings. The stock market is not doing so well and in order to make sure we’re prepared for blah and blah we have to start watching our blippety bloops, which means a tightening of our bippety bleep blahs.” Me: glazy eyed “Are you even listening? We are in tough times. What should we do?!” “Do? Do this! Baby Shark, do do do do de do, Baby Shark!” “What kind of response is that? What’s going on?!” “It’s the only thing on my mind. I’ve been in lockdown with three small children for over a week and that’s how we communicated for ten days.” “I can see this is getting us nowhere. It’s lunchtime. I’m starving. Let’s eat,” he said. I put a sandwich on a plate before him. He made a face and said, “Ugh. What’s this?” “Oopsie, I forgot.” I got a knife and quickly sliced off the crusty ends then cut it into tiny bite-sized squares. He lifted the top of the bread. “No, I mean what’s in this sandwich?” “Your favorite silly, gummy bears and peanut butter.” He shoved it aside and folded his arms. “I’m not eating this.” “Oh ya, Mr. Crabby crab pants? Well, we’ll just see about that. No ‘Peppa Pig’ for you and you can just sit in a corner until your attitude changes.” I took the plate and tossed it into the sink. “What’s gotten into you?” he bellowed. “A few days with some little kids and this is what happens? You need to just let it go.” I spun around and held my thumb up like a microphone and belted out, “Let it go, let it go…can’t hold it back anymore!”
AUGUST 2022 | CROSSROADS | 13
Automobile Alley
THE 2023
KIA SPORTAGE COMBINES OFF-ROAD CONFIDENCE WITH CUTTING-EDGE DESIGN
BY DAVID FINKELSTEIN
AS KIA’S LONGEST-RUNNING NAME- ern design cues. The Kia front Tiger nose disPLATE, the 2023 Sportage undergoes a tinctive grille assembly gets more technical in
number of significant changes, as this model represents the fifth generation of this attractive and refined sport utility vehicle. After helping develop this automotive segment, Sportage is part of Kia’s new global brand transformation. This all new 2023 subcompact SUV delivers more of what today's discerning and eco-conscious travelers are seeking with an adventurous sporty vehicle. The Sportage delivers something for most. With a broad lineup and trim levels that include the: LX, EX, SX, SX-Prestige and X-Line. Also offered for '23 is their Sportage X-Pro and X-Pro Prestige trims. This further allows drivers to participate in enhanced off-road experiences. Retail pricing starts at $25,990 for the FWD LX model and tops out at $36,790 for the AWD X-Pro Prestige version. The destination charge is an additional $1,255. This SUV is a welcomed extension in a crowded sport utility vehicle segment. The redone variant is now somewhat larger overall, more capable and powerful, as well as more fuel-efficient than the model it replaced. Additionally, it debuts with a number of Sportage firsts besides the enhanced trim versions, including an available, dual panoramic curved digital readout display dash assembly. Focused on Kia’s new design philosophy, Sportage’s distinctive appearance leverages on an alluring impression. Delicate surfaces are offset by rugged, sheer forms, combining off-road confidence with cutting-edge mod14 | CROSSROADS | AUGUST 2022
appearance. Exclusive “boomerang” daytime running lights immediately draw your attention. Its dramatic angles push the uniquely shaped headlights to the outer corners. The pronounced fenders help to enhance the vehicles strong presence. Uncommon shoulder lines dominating from the hood, thus running down the side, help to add to the generous improved volume to its overall shape. This sub compact SUV has muscular shoulders around the rear flowing lines resulting in its futuristic notch shaped taillights. Inspired by things such as high-end outdoor furniture and modern architecture, the Sportage’s interior is a new concept for Kia. The substantial cabin gets transformed into a near luxury, futuristic driver cockpit, including a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, depending on the trim level. Asymmetrical console puts controls and buttons at driver’s hand with ease, while also boasting smart storage solutions, including cup holders that come undone at the press of a button, when they need arises. Sportage has gone from one of the smallest SUVs in its class, to one of the largest. With best-in-class rear legroom, rear passengers are greeted with a more relaxing space where they can enjoy the ride. Furthermore, its bestin-class rear cargo capacity comes out to be 39.6 cu-ft. The high-tech interior is featured with standard and available infotainment, to further keep drivers connected, confident
and updated. The new center dash touchpad allows for easier driver personal settings that include climate and audio controls. Improved driving dynamics are experienced with the vehicle’s ultra-high strength steel for increased rigidity and torsional stiffness. Road and wind noise is kept to a minimum with greater usage of sound absorbing and insulating materials. More power is achieved with a new 2.5-liter, I-4 engine that produces 187HP, matched with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Its end game is to accomplish up to 8% improved fuel-economy. Additional powertrains available include Kia's Turbo Hybrid and Turbo Plug-in Hybrid. The optional AWD system uses electro-hydraulic coupling system to enact power between the front and rear wheels. Standard Advanced Driver Safety Assistance Systems are included, even at the base LX level. Most new Sportage trims will now be assembled in the U.S. at Kia’s manufacturing plant in West Point, Georgia.
Entertainment
g n i r e b Remem
n a a C s Jame J
BY STEVE BRYAN
James Caan was a consummate actor who could play just about any role. Caan, who passed away on July 6 of this year, left us with performances that ranged from the terrifying to the exceptionally funny. In 1971, Caan starred as football player Brian Piccolo in the Made-For-TV movie “Brian’s Song.” Billy Dee Williams played Gale Sayers, another Chicago Bears player who became a great friend to Piccolo. The two men supported each other and, when he was diagnosed with cancer, Sayers was Piccolo’s strongest supporter. Piccolo died at the age of 26 and the relationship between the two men was the heart of the story. Caan also earned an Emmy nomination for his performance as Brian Piccolo. “Rollerball,” a 1975 science fiction thriller, blurred the line between war and competitive sports. Set in 2018, corporations were in control and books had been edited and stored on computers. Caan played Jonathan E., the captain of the Houston Rollerball team who was being forced to retire. Jonathan refused to quit so the executives changed the rules to eliminate him. The most chilling line in the film was the most telling: “Game? This was never meant to be a game!” Rob Reiner directed Caan in 1990’s “Misery,” a film based on the Stephen King novel of the same name. Caan starred as Paul Sheldon, a writer who became popular for his gothic romances about Misery Chastain and the two men vying for her affections. After a horrific car crash, former nurse Annie Wil-
kes (Kathy Bates) saved his life and nursed him back to health. Unfortunately, Annie, who adored Paul’s books, refused to let authorities know that he was alive and forced him to write another Misery book. 1988’s “Alien Nation” put a new spin on police procedurals. A few years after a spaceship full of enslaved aliens landed in the Mojave Desert, they integrated into society. Police detective Matthew Sykes (Caan) had lost his partner and was teamed up with “Sam Francisco” (Mandy Patinkin), a Newcomer also known as “George.” Over time, the two learned to work together and, in one scene, George put himself in danger to save his new partner. In 2003’s “Elf,” Caan faced the son he didn’t know he had. Will Ferrell starred as Buddy, an orphaned human child raised by his elf father (Bob Newhart). Buddy travelled to New York to meet Walter, a book publisher and his biological dad, but Buddy was quickly removed from his office. Walter later bailed him out of jail and learned that the man in the elf suit actually was his son. “Elf” had lots of great family moments and laugh-out-loud scenes. From the football field to forced captivity to Christmas miracles, the films of James Caan cover many genres. Thank you, Mr. Caan, for the performances you gave us. James Caan photo courtesy Bigstock. “Rollerball” photo courtesy Algonquin. “Alien Nation” photo courtesy Twentieth Century Fox. “Elf” photo courtesy New Line Cinema.
AUGUST 2022 | CROSSROADS | 15
For the Love of Food
DIY Popcorn Bar (page 16)
A
Pop up cooking creativity
s an important life skill, learning to cook and becoming familiar with kitchen basics can be an exciting adventure for kids from toddlers to teens. Using a delicious childhood favorite like popcorn as the key ingredient at the center of your lessons can spur interest and enthusiasm. Along with understanding measurements and safety, teaching your children how to make simple recipes also offers opportunities to bond and make memories that can last a lifetime. Popcorn is a snack food associated with good times and it’s versatile enough to encourage creativity. While it’s important to start with easy techniques that introduce future chefs to the culinary world, it’s also helpful to ensure they’ll enjoy eating their first creations so they’ll be eager for more time in the kitchen. As a whole grain that’s 100% unprocessed with no additional additives, hidden ingredients or GMOs, air-popped popcorn has only 30 calories per cup and offers a 16 | CROSSROADS | AUGUST 2022
whole grain that provides energy-producing complex carbohydrates. Because whole grains are important sources of nutrients such as zinc, magnesium, B vitamins and fiber, you can instill the values of nutritious snacking all while having some fun. These simple yet delicious recipes and tips can help you get your kids involved in the kitchen. Encourage Creativity Making learning fun is an important introduction to the world of cooking. Starting with a versatile base ingredient like popcorn that’s naturally low in fat and calories, encourage your child to get creative with a recipe like Pop-a-rific Popcorn Balls. With simple variations like adding food coloring or mixing in candies, nuts or dried fruit, it’s a colorful way for little ones to build confidence in their skills. Measure Ingredients A key component to recipes of all difficulty
levels, teaching measurements from teaspoons and tablespoons to cups, ounces and more is valuable knowledge. Start with the basics like these Simple Popcorn S’mores that call for popcorn and graham crackers to be measured out in cups so your child can focus on one unit of measurement. Then, if little ones are helping, have an adult melt the chocolate and drizzle for a family-favorite snack. Get Messy Learning how to create and explore is often productive (and fun) when children can get their hands dirty. Sweet ’n’ Salty Popcorn Pretzel Sticks are a perfect canvas for letting kiddos work directly with the ingredients as they can roll pretzels in peanut butter, add sprinkles to their heart’s content and press popcorn into their newfound favorite treat. Find more kid-friendly recipes to get the whole family involved in the kitchen at popcorn.org.
For the Love of Food
Pop-a-rific Popcorn Balls YIELD: 14 BALLS
DIRECTIONS:
INGREDIENTS:
Place popped popcorn in large bowl.
3 quarts popped popcorn, unsalted
In large saucepan over low heat, cook marshmallows and butter or margarine until melted and smooth. Pour over popcorn, tossing gently to mix well. Cool 5 minutes.
1 package (1 pound) marshmallows 1/4 cup butter or margarine
Butter hands well and form into 2 1/2-inch balls. Variations: To color popcorn balls, add 3-4 drops
of food coloring to smooth marshmallow mixture. Mix well to distribute color evenly then pour over popcorn as instructed. Mix in candies, nuts or dried fruit after mixing popcorn and melted marshmallows. Stir to distribute then form into balls. Place nonpareils in shallow bowl or plate. Roll popcorn balls in nonpareils after forming.
DIY Popcorn Bar Whether you’re entertaining guests, hosting a houseful of kids or simply enjoying a weekend at home, a DIY popcorn bar provides a tasty and joyful way for children and adults alike to create their own version of an afternoon snack. Just set out a few ingredients and watch the fun unfold. • Small popcorn bags, bowls or cups • Scoops or spoons • Popped popcorn • Candies • Raisins • Chocolate chips • Seasonings • Shredded cheese • Shredded coconut • Peanuts (remember to ask fellow parents if their children may have an allergy) • Melted butter RECIPIES CONTINUED PAGE 18 AUGUST 2022 | CROSSROADS | 17
For the Love of Food
Simple Popcorn S’mores YIELD: 10 CUPS
DIRECTIONS:
INGREDIENTS:
On baking sheet, combine popcorn, marshmallows and graham crackers.
10 cups freshly popped popcorn 1 package (10 1/2 ounces) miniature marshmallows 2 cups graham crackers, broken into small pieces 1/2 cup milk chocolate, melted
18 | CROSSROADS | AUGUST 2022
Drizzle with melted chocolate and cool.
For the Love of Food
Sweet ’n’ Salty Popcorn Pretzel Sticks SERVINGS: 6
DIRECTIONS:
INGREDIENTS:
Spread 1 tablespoon peanut butter over one pretzel, leaving 2-inch “handle” without peanut butter. Repeat with remaining peanut butter and pretzels.
6 tablespoons peanut butter 6 large pretzel rods 3 cups popped popcorn sugar sprinkles 3/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
Press and roll popcorn onto peanut butter to coat each pretzel. Sprinkle with sugar sprinkles.
To make optional chocolate drizzle: Place chocolate chips in small resealable plastic bag and seal bag. Microwave 30 seconds, or until chocolate is melted. Clip small corner from bag and squeeze to drizzle chocolate over popcorn. Sprinkle with additional sugar sprinkles. Allow chocolate to harden before serving.
AUGUST 2022 | CROSSROADS | 19
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