2 | CROSSROADS | SEPTEMBER 2022
BY DAVID FINKELSTEIN
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 watch ing classic movies at neighborhood theaters.
David Finkelstein is a Master/ Skilled Automotive Service Tech nician 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.
– PG. 14
BY STEVE BRYAN
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? Archeo logical 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 AVALANCHE
Published monthly with newsstand circulation to Wentzville and Lake Saint Louis plus newsstands in O’Fallon, Troy, Lake Sherwood and Augusta. 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 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. Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Mathew DeKinder Publisher Emeritus/ General Manager Robert Huneke Production Manager Rebecca Brockmann Contributors Avalanche, David Finkelstein, Cindy Moore Staff Writer Brett Auten VOL 18 | NO 9 2022writersSEPTEMBER MOORE ON LIFE – PG. 13 ENTERTAINMENT – PG. 15 ALWAYS AN ADVENTURE – PG. 12
Avalanche is a functional illiter ate who left the St. Louis area three decades ago in search of adventure. He enjoys motorcy cling and all things outdoors. He lives with his wife and dogs.
AUTOMOBILE ALLEY
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.
Entertainment
Feature Story HISTORIC BRAVERY
Trucks and muck
Automobile Alley
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On the Cover: Bigstock SEPTEMBER 2022 | CROSSROADS | 3 contents2022
Moore on Life The Dating Game
For the Love of Food Make healthy easy with grapes
Community Calendar: September
Around Town
The remarkable and awe-inspiring life of a former slave will be commemorated with Archer Alexander Day on Sept. 24
Always an Adventure
2022 Ford F-150 Lightning puts a charge into the electric truck market
SEPTEMBER
Local news and events
Remembering the incredible Olivia Newton-John
St. Charles County resident takes passion for button collecting to national prominence as president of the National Button Society
The Missouri State Button Society and a
inDuringbuttons.the past two years under Yeargain, the NBS has seen a dramatic switch from ev erything to do with collecting buttons being in person, to now today, collectors can be anywhere in the world and connect online for meetings and educational programs.
“I really enjoy learning about them, whether they are new or old,” Yeargain said. “You can look at the history, the beauty, the ma terial. There are all sorts of ways to look at a
n the butt n
LOUELLA YEARGAIN WAS AT A COUNTRY AUCTION in the early 1990s when lightning struck.
The National Button Society meets annually in different locations throughout the United States. The theme at Madison, Wis consin was The Greatest Button Show on Earth.“After two years of zoom meetings, mem bers were excited to be physically with other button collectors again,” Yeargain said.
She was in a heated bidding battle with a gentleman over a jar of buttons. Back and forth they went before Yeargain waved the white. Yeargain planned on using the jar for sewing purposes; the gentleman for some thing different. Always an inquisitive mind, Yeargain had to find out the motivation.
button.”Whyis
“I asked him, ‘What was in that jar?’” Year gain said. “And he told me, ‘If you knew but tons, you’d know.’ So, there was the challenge.”Notonly did Yeargain learn about buttons, she developed a borderline-obsession and at the same time became one of the lead ing forces in button collecting and even the book on it. In fact, Yeargain just completed her term as president of the National But tonSheSociety.hasserved in many leadership capacities in the button world (a member of the Midwest Regional Button Association, Mis souri State Button Society, and the St. Louis area Gateway Club) and she co-wrote the booklet, “A Descriptive Catalog of Picto rial Overall Buttons,” with her husband, Ray Yeargian, and Jerry DeHay and it is used by collectors all over the world.
button collecting popular? There are dozens of reasons. Buttons are often lit tle works of art, depicting an ancient scene crafted in metal or painted on bone and placed under glass. Others have significant financial worth. Some that are from the 18th century can bring plenty of awe when you think about its historical path.
CONTINUED PAGE 5
The National Button Society’s focus is on clothing buttons of all ages. The organization was formed approximately eighty years ago and now has over 2,300 members worldwide. Their mission is to promote educational exhibits, encourage research, publish information and preserve for future generations all that is beautiful and historic
4 | CROSSROADS | SEPTEMBER 2022 Around Town
By Brett Auten
Founding members – Scott Lewis, Mark Holguin and John Keegan – were recognized for establishing the chamber two decades ago. Since that time, the chamber has grown from about 10 members to more than 400 today. Much of the growth, members say, can be attributed to the chamber’s give-back mission.“People want to be part of an organization
More than 100 business owners and com munity organizations attended a 20th anni versary celebration for the Cottleville-Weldon Spring Chamber of Commerce. Held July 29, the breakfast event at Shamrocks Pub & Grill featured speakers, proclamations, comradery and Representativeslibations.from the offices of Con gressman Blaine Luetkemeyer, State Representative John Wiemann, County Executive Steve Ehlmann, city of Cottleville and city of Weldon Spring were on hand to offer their support for the chamber and celebrate its impact on the local business community.
The chamber is still accepting new members. The annual membership fee for most small businesses is $200. If you’d like to get involved, contact the chamber office at 636-336-2979.
Cottleville-Weldon Spring Chamber of Commerce celebrates 20th anniversary
local Gateway Button Club are available for interested people and should contact them through Facebook accounts for more infor mation.ForYeargain, button collecting will always
be an itch that needs scratching.
“My favorite color is blue, so I will see an old steel one and think, ‘I have to have a tray of those,’” she said, “It’s just one thing after another.”
that not only benefits them and their busi ness, but provides opportunities to impact those in need,” said Wendy Berry, executive director. “Our chamber is different than oth er chambers in the area because we make a concerted effort to give back to the nonprofits and community organizations that do so much for so many in our area.”
SUBMITTED PHOTOS: St. Charles’ Louella Yeargain shows some of the top buttons in her collection. Yeargain recently completed her two-year term as president of the National Button Society.
Last summer, when local Marine Jared Schmitz was tragically killed in Afghanistan, chamber members, along with Farm & Home Supply and Ella’s Fearless Heroes Lemonade Stand, raised $14,000 to benefit the Jared Schmitz Memorial Foundation.
President Drew Elwell says the chamber giveback mission is one of the reasons he chose to get involved with the organization.“Ijustlovethat as a chamber, we love our members and they in turn love and support so many great causes in our community,” he said. “There really is a symbiotic relationship between the local business community and local nonprofits; when we all work together, everyone wins.”
Service, Alleluia Baskets, Backstoppers, Oper ation Food Search, Little Black Book Women in Business, Toys 4 Tots, Shoes & Hope, St. Charles Community College Foundation and more have benefited from Chamber give backCurrentinitiatives.Chamber
SEPTEMBER 2022 | CROSSROADS | 5 Around Town
And that’s just one example. In the past eight years, the Cottleville-Weldon Spring Chamber of Commerce has raised more than $250,000 for nonprofits in our community. Organizations such as Community Living, Lutheran Senior Services, DASA, Child Ad vocacy Center, Cottleville Firefighters Outreach, Marcy’s Project, St. Charles County Ambulance District, Sts. Joachim & Ann Care
During this time, Prinster always maintained a friendly, yet com petitive relationship with his alma mater.
“My faith has always been pretty strong,” he said. “The various things they instilled in us in terms of living your faith and trying to continue to grow in your faith, that’s what I continued to do. It’s still very important.”
The Missouri Local History grant submissions should focus in two areas: The preservation of historical local records, which includes the purchase of archival supplies to store or display personal papers, pho tographs, maps or other materials. Funds may not be used for pres ervation of federal, state or local government documents. The other
Frank Barro will be posthumously inducted into the GAC Hall of Fame this September as well.
In 1982, Prinster helped lead the St. Charles Pirates to the Missouri 4A State Football Championship, making them the only St. Charles County school to win a state football championship at that time.
Prinster would go on to teach and coach at Chaminade High School before retiring in 2011.
Prinster coached freshmen football and eighth grade basketball for three years at Orchard Farm High School until a recom mendation from his former Duchesne coach Frank Barro helped him secure a position with St. Charles High School.
During his career, Prinster maintained a strong connection to his Catholic faith. He said it was a connection that was made stronger by his time at Duchesne.
Along the way, Prinster became head track coach and helped fur ther the success of the program by winning the 1990 conference championship, and finishing fourth in 1991 and 1995.
While at Duchesne he was very involved in the sports program; he lettered three years in football, soccer, and track. He attended Southeast Missouri State University where he played football for a year and graduated with teaching certificates in PE and social studies.
“It was pretty cool because the kids from Duchesne would come over and practice at (our facility) because we had an all-weather track,” he said. “It was good competing with each other ... It was just fun. There was a ri valry, but also they rooted for us, and we rooted for them.”
The GAC recognizes individuals based on their high school and post-high school athletic accomplishments. A committee of for mer and current athletes, coaches, and activities directors makes the final decision as to who is inducted.
Former St. Charles High School coach to be inducted into GAC Hall of Fame
“I had a lot of good athletes,” he said. “We did fantastic.”
“I worked with him in track and field, and felt that he was an excellent coach. He’s well deserved of the honor that's for sure,” said Jacob. “He understood his athletes and got the best out of them.”
PHOTO COURTESY DUCHESNE HIGH SCHOOL
The one-year grant period begins November. The Richard S. Brownlee Missouri Local History grants honor a longtime former executive director of the State Historical Society who helped expand the so ciety’s holdings of newspapers, reference materials, manuscripts and artworks. A maximum of $5,000 will be awarded this year.
“Brownlee Local History Grants are an opportunity for local histori cal societies and cultural heritage institutions to preserve and pro vide access to their valuable collection,” said Gerald Hirsch, associate director of the State Historical Society of Missouri. “These grants have supported local organizations across the state from helping to eradicate mold and mildew damage in their collections to creating brochures and guides for a variety of projects and exhibits.
Prinster will be recognized during a ceremony on Sept. 23 before the football game at St. Charles High School.
Prinster explained, “(Head coach) Jim Williams was looking for an assistant coach ... Frank said, ‘Hey, give John Prinster a call.’ I got the job as PE teacher and assistant varsity coach. I stayed there for 27 years. I also was a counselor for 24 years.”
On Sept. 23, Duchesne alum John Prinster ‘73 will be one of nine individuals inducted into the Gateway Athletic Conference (GAC) Hall of Fame. Prinster was selected for his ac complishments as a football player at Duchesne, and to honor his 27 years of coaching at St. Charles High School.
Stephen Jacob, athletic director at St. Charles High School from 1995 to 2006, worked with Prinster throughout the 80s and 90s.
area of focus can be education or programming activities to promote learning about local history or training for the preservation of local history records. Grants are available to Missouri cultural heritage in stitutions that are organizational members of the State Historical So ciety with preference given to local historical societies.
6 | CROSSROADS | SEPTEMBER 2022 Around Town
The State Historical Society of Missouri to award local history grants
“For me (he and I) being inducted at the same time really is an honor,” said Prinster. “He did a lot for (Duchesne) to get things started. He was just a super man who shaped a lot of us.”
Grant proposals for the 2022-23 cycle may be submitted online at https://shsmo.org/awards/brownlee-grant
The State Historical Society of Missouri is seeking proposals of up to $500, each, to help Missouri cultural heritage institutions preserve and provide access to local history. The deadline for organizations to submit their application is Sept. 15.
SEPTEMBER 2022 | CROSSROADS | 7 Around Town
Mantz advised the donation will go toward purchasing the school's archery screen which will be used by nearly every student who attends North Point Middle School for years to come.
The Wentzville - Lake St. Louis Optimist Club has been serving the community since 1986. Reformed in 2017, the club’s mission is “helping kid’s dreams come true.” The club inspires kids to be active community members through service by hosting the annual Turkey Trot race, benefiting Holt Cross-Country Team, and offering annual scholarship opportunities.
Working in partnership with both the Wentzville and Lake St. Louis Police Departments, the club supports community outreach programs such as: Wentzville Junior Police Academy, Health and Fitness Fair, Lake St. Louis Open House, Polar Plunge and Holiday Trim a Tree. The club also supports two lending libraries within the community as well as collecting baby supplies for crisis nursery and studentOptimistparents.International is one of the world’s largest service club organizations with over 80,000 adult and youth members in 2,500 clubs in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, Mexico, and throughout the world. Carrying the motto “Friend of Youth,” Optimists conduct positive service projects that reach more than six million young people each year. To learn more about Optimist International, please call 314-371-6000 or visit the organization’s website at www.optimist.org.
Members of the Wentzville-Lake Saint Louis Optimist Club donated $1,000 to North Point Middle School on July 14. The club met with the School Principal, Dr. Kelly Mantz, Physical Education and Health Teacher, Jennifer Werner, and several other school and district leaders to present the check to the P.E. department.
Wentzville-Lake St. Louis Optimist Club makes donation to North Point Middle School
SUBMITTED PHOTO: (From left) Jimmy Evrard stands with Cecil Raymer, Danny Ott, Jennifer Werner, Kaitlin McElfresh, Dr. Kelly Mantz, Ed Jurotich, Debra Raymer and Dianne Ohlms.
A rockin’ tribute
St. Charles County resident Dave Watkins plays guitar and sings vocals in Mr. Blue Sky: A Tribute to Electric Light Orchestra.
boardists in Mr. Blue Sky. Chances are when you hear the sweeping orchestral sounds or elaborate synthesizer work, it's coming from him.At 61, he remembers when “Telephone Line” came out and ELO was a constant on the turn dial.
Two local residents will be playing to at least one sold out crowd in Chesterfield next month as members of Mr. Blue Sky. A Tribute to Electric Light Orchestra.
The brainchild of England's Jeff Lynne, the Electric Light Orchestra created a sweeping landscape of modern rock and pop with touches of classical music. This combination led to a string of top 10 albums and singles for ELO during the 1970 and 80s. ELO re mained largely inactive until 2014, when Lynne re-formed the band as Jeff Lynne's ELO. ELO’s music has been featured in numerous movies (“Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2” for instance), television and commercials and most recently in a Super Bowl ad for Mich elob Ultra starring Peyton Manning. The band's “Don’t Bring Me Down” was a theme song for United States astronauts, as it was played in the Space Station Columbia for their wake-up call in 1996.
Mr. Blue Sky has been together for three years and includes 10 members. Along with your usual, guitar, bass, and drums, Mr. Blue Sky features violins, cello and two keyboardists to help ideally recreate that elaborate ELO
O'Fallon's Dave Watkins is a guitarist and vocalist for Mr. Blue Sky. While Jeff Faulkner is playing the Jeff Lynne role, Watkins is adding flourishing lead guitar work and even takes lead vocal duties on a couple of tunes. Watkins, 51, also plays in Velvet Goldmine and That 80s Band and there is a good chance you
“They were on KSHE and KADI every day,” Winter said. “Now, to go from a fan and a listener to actually playing these parts, it's a different ballgame. To really dissect your part you have to completely re-listen.”
A longtime fan of the band, when the op portunity arose to try out for Mr. Blue Sky, the challenge was enticing. ELO's lush recordings often featured multiple layers of instru ments and a choir's worth of vocal overdubs.
The Chesterfield Amphitheater is located at 631 Veterans Pl. Dr. in Chesterfield. For more venue information, visit chesterfieldamphitheater.com.“Thesearesome amazing musicians,” Win ter said. “I have to be on my toes. Production-wise, this show will be pretty special and we're really playing well and loving it.”
During ELO's original 13-year period of ac tive recording and touring, they sold over 50 million records worldwide and fifteen top 20 songs on the US Billboard Hot 100.
Thesound.band's members have performed with The Who, Pavlov’s D, That 80s Band, Weird Al Yankovic, and the St Louis Symphony.
will see him locally under the moniker, Dave and Them.
“From a musical perspective, I loved the idea of playing with nine other people and navi gating that,” Watkins said. “It's a challenge. It's a collective. You do not want to step on anyone's toes.
Tribute acts have become commonplace and for some music lovers it is the closest they will come, for a cache of reasons, to seeing and hearing the real deal.
8 | CROSSROADS | SEPTEMBER 2022 Around Town
By Brett Auten
Stephen Winter came to Lake St. Louis from University City. He is one of the two key-
“We have gotten a really positive response from the people who love ELO's music,” Watkins continued. “It was definitely a lot of hard work in the beginning but things are moving forward. Be prepared for a trip through ELO's catalog along with a few surprises.”
SUBMITTED PHOTOS: Mr. Blue Sky: A Tribute to Electric Light Orchestra with Emily Wallace will be on Sept. 23 at the Chesterfield Amphitheater. It is an all-ages show and the doors open at 6 p.m., show begins at 7 p.m. During ELO's original 13-year period of active recording and touring, they sold over 50 million records worldwide and fifteen top 20 songs on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.
St. Charles County resident Stephen Winter plays keyboard and sings vocals in Mr. Blue Sky: A Tribute to Electric Light Orchestra.
Two St. Charles County musicians lend their talents to the band Mr. Blue Sky. A Tribute to Electric Light Orchestra
Community Calendar SEPTEMBER 2022 | CROSSROADS | 9 4 Coast Guard Birthday 5 Labor Day 10 Carl Garner Federal Lands Cleanup Day 11 Patriot Day 16 National RecognitionPOW/MIADay 17 Constitution Day and Citizenship Day 18 Air Force Birthday 22 First Day of Autumn 24 National Public Lands Day 25 Gold Star Mother’s Day SeptemberSeptember
On Sept. 24, St. Charles City and County will recognize Alexander beginning at 10 a.m. at 119 South Main. The address has historical significance as that is where the courthouse stood in 1863. Archer would be hidden in Alton, Illinois until his emancipation was announced in the newspapers on Sept. 24, 1863. Then, at 1 p.m., the family and descendants of Alexander invites the public to join them for a memorial service. This service will be held in the St. Peter's UCC Cemetery at 2101 Lucas and Hunt in Normandy. The public is invited to share in both special events.
HISTORICBRAVERY
“Archer's story is “Woulddifferent...”anyof us, black or white, have done what he did?”
10 | CROSSROADS | SEPTEMBER 2022
Dorris Keeven-Franke is an award-winning writer, public historian, educator, and professional genealo gist. A lifelong resident of Missouri, she resides in St. Charles County and operates a blog (archeralexander. wordpress.com) dedicated to Alexander. Keeven-Fran ke's participation has been paramount in bringing Alexander's story to light.
The remarkable and awe-inspiring life of Archer Alexander will be commemorated later this month with two poignant ceremonies. Alex ander was a slave and Civil War hero who lived in St. Charles County from 1830 until his death in 1879.
ByBrettAuten
“What makes the morning ceremony so important is it will help explain who Archer was and what he did,” she said. “That afternoon, it will be a respectful cer emony.”Alexander is known as the face of freedom on the Emancipation Monument in Washington, D.C. In the summer of 1869, William Eliot served on a commission to erect a monument to Abraham Lincoln in Washington D.C., and pictures of Alexander were sent to him and both his face and figure are used as a model for the statue. A 2018 Sports Illustrated article detailed information that led to Alexander being the great-greatgreat grandfather of famed boxer Muhammad Ali.
Theremarkableandawe-inspiringlifeofaformerslavewillbecommemoratedwithArcherAlexanderDayonSept.24
Keith Winstead, of Louisville, is one of Alexander's descendants who will be present. A diligent researcher and genealogist, Winstead connected with Keeven-Franke during his investiga tions.“Itis
PAGE 10: PHOTO COURTESY THE MISSOURI HISTORICAL SOCIETY PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTION: Archer Alexander
PHOTO COURTESY THE STATE HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF MISSOURI: Charles County Home Guards under the command of German-born Lt. Col. Arnold Krekel guarded the Peruque Creek Bridge in 1863.
Afterward, he informed Union offi cials that arms were hidden in an ice house in an icebox on the Campbell Farm (also in St. Charles County, a creek formerly known as Tributary B was officially named Archer Alexander Creek. Archer It is 2.5 miles long and it flows through Campbell Farm) near the Pitman Farm in St. Charles County. Rebel sympathizers came to suspect him and, fearing for his safety, he ran away to St. Louis where he was given refuge by William Eliot, a prominent abolitionist who would found Wash ington University in St. Louis. It would be dangerous to harbor a fugitive slave and though given protection by the military, Alexander would be hidden in Alton, Illinois until his emancipation.
“His story is also a story of friendship,” Keevan-Franke said. “The slave patrol would have lynched him if they would
Alexander is known as the face of freedom on the Emancipation Monument in Washington, D.C.
like a puzzle, but a real-life puz zle,” Winstead said. “When COVID started, I had plenty of time to work onForit.”more information about Alexan der or these events, visit Keeven-Franke's“Weblog.have relatives and descendants coming in from along with some wonderful performances planned,” KeevenFranke said. “I have had some amazing people who have joined me in putting together this celebration.”
PAGE 11: SUBMITTED PHOTO: The Emancipation Memorial in Washington, D.C. Archer Alexander is said to be the inspiration for the face of freedom.
have caught him.”
“Archer's story is different in that his own actions are what made him free,” Keeven-Franke said. “Would any of us, black or white, have done what he did?”Alexander's feat of heroism occurred on a cold February in 1863 near the Pe ruque Creek bridge in St. Charles County. When he learned of his enslaver’s plot to destroy the vital railroad bridge, he rushed to inform the Union Troops stationed at the guardhouse. This criti cal knowledge would save hundreds of lives, and precious military supplies.
After a German farmer helped Alexander's wife Louisa and their children escape, they joined Alexander in St. Louis.InDecember 1864, the provost mar shal began the enlistment of black troops in St. Charles County. Tom Alexander, the son of Archer Alexander, was among the first recruits. After he was killed in action, Tom’s back pay and bounty-money were paid to Ar cher, who, in the book “The Story of Ar cher Anderson,” expressed pride that his son had served, stating, “I couldn’t do it myself,” he said, “but I thank the Lord my boy did it.”
Archer would be hidden in Alton, Illinois until his emancipation was announced in the newspapers on Sept. 24, 1863.
SEPTEMBER 2022 | CROSSROADS | 11
Always An Adventure
Amudslide
The maiden voyage with the new travel trailer into the Midwest went mostly well. I really like the thing, as it provides all the comforts of home, basically anywhere one can pull over and park; a huge advan tage when hauling family members with various needs. Need a nap? Just pull over and find a quiet place to park. Want a cup of coffee, or a cold drink? Same thing, just a few minutes off the highway and one is refreshed with the beverage of choice. The indignities of public restrooms are completely avoided, and the potentially nasty chore of emptying the holding tanks can be completed at a later date at the time and place of one’s choosing. Stay ing in the middle of the Central Plains at an RV park was a little odd for me, as I still had the mindset of mountain wilderness camping. Having said that, it was 104 de grees outside, and just minutes after plugging into the provided electrical hookup, I was lounging in the cold air coming from the air conditioning unit. The frigid luxury was enough to help me quickly adapt to the new environment. The bed is quite comfy, and the whole rig is easy to set up for camping, and break down for travel. However, my pickup truck does not like the camper nearly as much as I do. It pulls it well enough, and handling is just finebut the fuel consumption is enough to en able a Middle Eastern oil sheik to upgrade his palace. Getting around at lower speeds didn’t affect mileage too much, but once the pickup was pulling the trailer down the
12 | CROSSROADS | SEPTEMBER 2022
minutes of the previous year’s geological extravaganza. Fortunately, this year’s mess was a small fraction of last year’s blowout, with “only” about 30 cubic yards of mud and rock deposited on the road, contrast ed with last year’s 35 truck-loads.
PHOTO BY AVALANCHE
arrived in the neighbor hood again this year, exactly one year to the day from last year, and within 20
We were happy that no mud covered anything on our property. I had just got ten the neighborhood roads graded and smoothed out the day before with my skid steer, and 1.5” of rain arrived in about one hour, washing all my work down the valley. St. Louis and St. Charles readers are no doubt justifiably ready to heap ridicule on our mini-flood, as you recently received that rate of rain for 10 or more hours straight. Keep in mind, most of the ter rain here is quite steep; our dirt roads have an 11-degree grade, and most of the surrounding topography is much steeper. An inch and a half of rain suddenly running 2,000 feet down a 40-degree slope builds up quite a bit of destructive energy. In any case, my sincere regards to those who, along with their property and vehicles, were caught in the recent Midwest flood ing – it’s no fun!
BY AVALANCHE
Our future uses of the American Family Truckster will be close to home. We’re looking forward to our annual firewood gathering excursion to the nearby mountains with the travel trailer, loaded with dogs and supplies, along with a second truck and a utility trailer for hauling wood. This will turn our two-or-three trip ritual into a two-or-three day working vacation in the mountains. No need to come home for a shower, dinner and sleep, we can take care of it all while in the mountains, and the mutts can get some quality time frolicking in the woods.
TRUCKS and MUCK
interstate, stops for fuel became frequent and painful. I had hoped for 10 mpg while towing, but that was a shattered dream. I was averaging around 8-9 miles per gallon, with one particularly nasty stretch spent bucking a strong head-wind yielding a poverty-inducing 7 mpg. This, at a slow-rolling 60-65 miles per hour.
“I don’t know, how about we get something to eat.”
“What took you so long?” I grumbled.
“I’ve got some coupons here for a two-for-one fish sandwich.” He pulled up to the drive-in and was about to put our order in.“Wait!” I hollered. “These coupons expired last month. Drive away quick before someone gets behind us.”
Moore On Life SEPTEMBER 2022 | CROSSROADS | 13
We sped off and headed to the hardware store because my husband remembered he needed some weed killer. Forty-five minutes later he came out with the killer and two hot dogs.
“I didn’t have an extra arm. I think there’s an emergency wa ter under your seat.”
I rummaged around for the water. It was covered in dust and ten degrees above room temperature. “I can’t drink this. Did you bring mustard?”
Me: “Hey Sweetie, it’s Friday night and you know what that means?”Husband: “Why yes I do; it’s garbage night. Are the cans on the“Nope,curb?”guess again.”
He held up his hand and wagged it which meant, “I told you about that extra arm situation.”
DATE NIGHT USED TO BE SOMETHING TO LOOK FORWARD TO after a long week of work and being with the kids. Now it’s more of a chore.
“Hold onto that dog.”
“It’s free hot dog night. They have a new grill they’re demoing. I had to stick around and watch to get the dogs.”
“Ya, so where’s the drink?”
“Well, now what?” I asked.
Back in the day it started out with a definite plan like dinner at a fancy restaurant and a new movie release. Now it usually starts out with no plan and ends with bickering.
“Then it must be TV time in our pajamas.”
“That’s every other night. This is date night.”
“Oh man. That time of the week already? Fine, what have you got in “Nothingmind?”yet. Get dressed and get in the car. We’ll think of something.”Wedrovefor a few miles in silence and then my husband asked, “Where are we going?”
DatingDatingTheGameTheGame
He spun around and headed towards home. Once there, we got in our pajamas, made ourselves some cold beverages and sat down in front of the TV to enjoy our free hot dog and a program about murder.
And that’s how you do date night after 40 years of marriage.
– BY CINDY MOORE –
“Sounds good. What do you feel like eating?”
PUTS A CHARGE INTO THE TRUCK MARKET FORD F-150 LIGHTNING
Worth noting of course, Ford's F-series pickup trucks have been America's bestselling truck for countless years. However, the '22 Lightning has been engineered to elevate all of the advantages of electrification, innova tion and connected technology, all wrapped up in one remarkable package.
Performance is achieved by dual in-board electric motors, no gas engine whatsoever. Lightning can take on rough terrain with its high-strength, military-grade aluminum alloy
2022
14 | CROSSROADS | SEPTEMBER 2022 Automobile Alley
The F-150 Lightning offers two battery op tions. The standard range battery gets about 230 miles of EPA-estimated range. The F-150 Lightning XLT and Lariat trims with the extended range battery show an EPA-estimated range of 320 miles, while the Platinum Edition has an EPA-estimated range of 300 miles.
And when it comes to impressive, smooth and quick acceleration, when equipped with the extended range battery pack, this exhila rating truck achieves 0-60 mph in around four-seconds. Honestly, its head-snapping be havior has to be experienced to be believed.
Advanced Digital Experience discovered on the Lariat and Platinum series include SYNC 4. It's a modern interface supported by a 15.5inch touch screen designed to adapt to driver behavior. It employs natural voice control, cloud-connected navigation and wireless access to your favorite services such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, integrated Amazon Alexa and SYNC AppLink apps.
much of the time. However, on certain roads, it seemed a bit baffled on keeping the truck in the driving lanes. And check this out, also available is Ford's onboard scales. It uses sen sors to estimate payload and tells customers how much they’re hauling so they can utilize the full capability of the truck and adjust their driving style and range distance as needed.
THROUGHOUT MY AUTOMOTIVE CAREER, more than once I've heard that "all trucks aren't created equal." Never before have those words been more meaningful, than with the introduction of the 2022 Ford F-150 all-electric/battery-powered Lightning.
I'm not too certain how Daniel Webster would feel about the newly created word "frunk" (not to be confused with a trunk) but it helps to describe the power-operated and lockable front storage compartment in the Lightning. Of course, on a conventional truck, that bay would serve as the engine compartment.The Lightning is a rolling powerhouse! With its optional 580 horsepower setup and 775 lb.-ft. of torque, it has an available maximum payload capacity of 2,235 pounds. Packed with intelligent features, Lightning illustrates how Ford combines advanced digital technologies with proven engineering. Much of its on-board electronics will remain contemporary with over-the-air software updates, as necessary.Oneof many new options is the handsfree driving experience. It worked adequately
ELECTRIC
The truck’s interior is extremely comfort able. It seats five and has lots of extra storage compartments. The 12-inch instrument cluster, featuring a customizable interface is easy to read and is in plain sight of the driver. With the truck’s built-in electric outlets, customers can take advantage of powering a variety of tools, electronics, TVs, laptops, slow cookers and more. In the event of a home power outage, Lightning can assist in providing house power for up to three days.
This Ford E/V is the most aerodynamic F-150 ever, with improvements such as newly shaped running boards, a sculpted hood to reduce wind drag, and grilles that replace air intake holes with a smoother surface. With a residential, level one, 110-volt charger, it took about 30 hours for an 80% charge. With a level two charger/220-volt, it tends to charge much quicker. The MSRP pricing at road-test with the Lariat version was $80,589 which included the factory’s shipping/delivery charg es of $1,695. The base warranty is for threeyr/36,000 miles.
BY DAVID FINKELSTEIN
body. Standard is a 4x4 chassis. A driver select able system features four drive modes: Nor mal, Sport, Off Road and Tow/Haul. A new independent rear suspension delivers improved ride comfort, while an all-new frame uses the strongest steel ever put in an F-150 structure. The factory indicates that it has a safe tow ca pacity of some 10,000-pounds.
I n my high school years in St. Louis, I shopped for records at Venture, Famous-Barr and Peaches on Hampton Avenue. Long before Steve Jobs and Apple put “a thousand songs” in everyone’s pocket, I’d devote a few hours looking for albums by Supertramp and Queen as well as comedy records by Steve Martin. The first time I came across an Olivia New ton-John record; however, I stopped because she was in credibly beautiful.
Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta later reunited in 1983’s “Two of a Kind,” a romantic fantasy. God (voice of Gene Hackman) had become angry with humanity and wanted to start over. Four of his angels begged God to let them find a typical Earth man who could show compassion. They chose Zack Melon (Travolta), an inventor so desperate for cash that he robbed bank teller Debbie Wylder (New ton-John). Debbie had, however, selfishly kept the money for herself and gave him a bag of deposit slips instead. Debbie and Zack had to show that they were worthy or else the floodgates would open.
wasn’t the same without all the characters we loved.
Olivia Newton-John then starred in “Xanadu,” an ambitious film that didn’t get the respect it deserved. Although branded a bomb, the music and production numbers had merit. Newton-John played Kira, one of the Nine Muses of Olympus tasked with inspiring Sonny Malone (Michael Beck), a struggling artist. Kira’s influence allowed Sonny and former orchestra leader Danny McGuire (Gene Kelly) to create a dance club that blended their dreams into something new and exciting. Despite the film criticism, the “Xanadu” soundtrack was incredible.
“Grease” followed the complicated relationship between Sandy and Danny. Before the film arrived in theaters in 1978, radio stations played songs from the soundtrack, in cluding the title track sung by Frankie Valli. “Grease” be came a monster box office hit and songs such as “Summer Loving” became iconic. The original film was re-released in May 1979 and, three years later, “Grease 2” arrived in the aters without the Sandy/Danny relationship. The adorable Didi Conn returned as Frenchy for the sequel, but it just
Entertainment SEPTEMBER 2022 | CROSSROADS | 15
On Aug. 8, Olivia Newton-John passed away after three decades of fighting breast cancer. In her honor, fans placed flowers on her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Arguably, she was best remembered for “Grease,” the 1978 screen adaptation of the Jim Jacobs/Warren Casey musical. Newton-John played Sandy Olsson, a student from Australia who met Danny Zuko (John Travolta) on the beach over the summer. The leader of the T-Birds greaser gang, Danny never expected to see Sandy again, but she showed unexpectedly after a pep rally.
Olivia Newton-John touched the lives of countless people across the world. She always felt like a part of the family and her passing left behind a huge void. I will miss her always.
Remembering the incredibleOlivia Newton-John
Photo courtesy Paramount Pictures
As an easy, versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide variety of recipes, grapes offer delicious taste, texture and color – plus a healthy boost – that make them an appealing addition to snacks and meals. An added bonus: Grapes help support heart, brain, colon and skin health.
Crunchy Salad Pizza on Cauliflower Crust is a simple way to get your fruits and veggies in a fun, tasty recipe. When it’s time for a filling yet nutritional dinner, Warm-Spiced Chickpeas and Couscous with Grapes and Arugula makes for an ideal vegetarian meal. Plus, this easy-tomake dish includes 8 grams of fiber to help support colon health.
The next time you enjoy an outdoor adventure, pack along a healthy snack such as California grapes. They can go with you on hikes and bike rides or to the gym as a healthy and hydrating source of energy. Hearthealthy grapes also deliver beneficial antioxidants and other polyphenols and are a good source of vitamin K, which supports bone and heart health. With no need to peel, cut, core or slice, grapes are perfectly portable when you’re on the go.
Grapes and seafood are a classic combination, and this Roasted Salmon and Grapes with Pistachios
Over Fresh Greens is no exception. A perfect dish for family dinners or
While naturally hydrating and delivering beneficial antioxidants and other polyphenols, grapes also offer more: they may help support healthy skin even when exposed to UV light. In a study conducted by the University of Alabama, subjects consuming 2 1/4 cups of grapes every day for two weeks showed increased resistance to sunburn and reduced markers of UV damage in skin cells.
I
For example, grapes are a popular and convenient fruit that can also be an ally in wellness, offering an abundance of health benefits that can help you get (and stay) on the right track.
f you’re like many Americans who put a priority on well-being, choosing simple yet healthy snacks and ingredients is an easy first step.
Whatever your path to health, eating well and encouraging healthy habits can be deliciously easy with the benefits of grapes. Find more health benefits and good-for-you recipe ideas at GrapesFromCalifornia.com.
GRAPES AND YOUR SKIN
inviting guests for a meal, it offers antioxidants and other polyphenols from grapes along with healthy omega-3 fats from fish.
MAKE MAKEEASYHEALTHYWITHHEALTHYEASYWITH grapes grapes
toss well. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
1/2trimmedmedium red onion
1 medium fennel bulb, quartered and trimmed
DIRECTIONS:
1 ounce fresh goat cheese, crumbled
Nutritional information per serving: 490 calories; 9 g protein; 66 g carbohydrates; 22 g fat (40% calories from fat); 4 g saturated fat (7% calories from saturated fat); 30 mg cholesterol; 380 mg sodium; 4 g fiber.
PREP TIME: 20 MINUTES | COOK TIME: 10 MINUTES | SERVINGS: 4
2 tablespoons pesto salt, to taste
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon, plus 4 teaspoons, extra-virgin olive oil, divided
Using mandolin, peeler or large, sharp knife and cutting board, thinly slice carrots, fennel, bell pepper and onion. Transfer to mixing bowl and add grapes and 1/2 cup chickpeas. Add parsley, pesto and 1 tablespoon olive oil;
Crunchy Salad Pizza on Cauliflower Crust
16 black California grapes, 1halvedcupcanned or cooked chickpeas, drained and rinsed, divided
Heat oven to 400 F. Place frozen crust on large, parchment-lined baking sheet and brush top lightly with 2 teaspoons olive oil. Bake until crust is lightly golden, about 10 minutes. Transfer to cutting board and cut into quarters.
2 medium carrots, peeled and trimmed
SEPTEMBER 2022 | CROSSROADS | 17 For the Love of Food RECIPIES CONTINUED PAGE 18
1 medium yellow bell pepper, halved and
Using fork, coarsely mash remaining chickpeas and remaining oil; spread among pieces of crust. Mound grape-vegetable mixture on top. Dot with goat cheese and serve.
1 frozen cauliflower pizza crust (11 ounces)
INGREDIENTS:
freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided salt, to taste
DIRECTIONS:
Roasted Salmon and Grapes with Pistachios Over Fresh Greens
1 cup green California grapes
1/4 cup shelled, unsalted pistachios, coarsely
PREP TIME: 15 MINUTES | COOK TIME: 7-8 MINUTES | SERVINGS: 4
INGREDIENTS:
1/3 cup dry white wine
Nutritional information per serving: 360 calories; 31 g protein; 12 g carbohydrates; 19 g fat (48% calories from fat); 3 g saturated fat (8% calories from saturated fat); 65 mg cholesterol; 105 mg sodium; 2 g fiber.
on top of greens. Spoon roasted grapes around fish.
Pat fish dry and place skin side down in pan. Brush fillets lightly with 1 tablespoon olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper, to taste. Pour wine in pan, scatter grapes around and sprinkle pistachios and parsley on fish.
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
Heat oven to 400 F. Lightly oil shallow, 9-by-13-inch baking dish.
freshly ground black pepper, to taste
In large bowl, toss spinach, onion, remaining oil and vinegar. Season with salt and pepper, to taste; toss again and divide among four Placeplates.fish
18 | CROSSROADS | SEPTEMBER 2022 For the Love of Food
5 ounces baby spinach
Roast salmon 7 minutes for medium-rare; 8 minutes for medium.
2choppedtablespoons finely chopped Italian parsley
4 wild sockeye or coho salmon fillets (about 5 ounces each)
SEPTEMBER 2022 | CROSSROADS | 19 For the Love of Food Warm-Spiced Chickpeas and Couscous with Grapes and Arugula PREP TIME: 10 MINUTES | COOK TIME: 20 MINUTES | SERVINGS: 4 INGREDIENTS: 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 small onion, chopped 1 1/2 teaspoons ground 1/2cuminteaspoon kosher salt, plus additional, to taste, 1/8dividedteaspoon ground 1allspicecupIsraeli pearl couscous 3/4 teaspoon ground turmeric 1 1/2 cups water 1 can (15 ounces) no-saltadded chickpeas, drained 1 cup red California grapes, 2halvedtablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or parsley freshly ground black pepper, to taste 4 cups lightly packed baby lemonarugulawedges DIRECTIONS: In large saucepan over medium heat, heat oil. Add onion, cumin, 1/2 teaspoon salt and allspice; cook, stirring, until onion is softened, about 3 minutes. Add couscous and stir 1 minute to toast lightly. Add turmeric and water; bring to boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer until couscous is tender, about 15 minutes. Stir chickpeas, grapes and cilantro into couscous then season with salt and pepper, to taste. Transfer couscous-grape mixture to large bowl, add arugula and toss well. Serve warm or at room temperature with lemon wedges. Nutritional information per serving: 370 calories; 12 g protein; 61 g carbohydrates; 9 g fat (17% calories from fat); 1 g saturated fat (2% calories from saturated fat); 0 mg cholesterol; 160 mg sodium; 8 g fiber.
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