HEAVENLY SLEEP
NOVEMBER
2021 writers
VOL 17 | NO 11
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
2 | CROSSROADS | NOVEMBER 2021
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.
NOVEMBER 4
2021
contents
Around Town Local news and events
11
Feature Story HEAVENLY SLEEP Local chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace provides beds for children in need
12
Always an Adventure Growth comes to the mountains
13
Moore on Life Brain freeze
14
Automobile Alley The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz brings stylish design to the crossover truck market
15
Entertainment Remembering George Reeves, TV’s original Superman
16
For the Love of Food Special centerpieces for holiday celebrations
19
Community Calendar: November
On the Cover: Submitted photo
NOVEMBER 2021 | CROSSROADS | 3
Around Town
Dream flight
World War II veteran from St. Charles County returns to the skies thanks to a program that takes veterans up for a trip in a Boeing Steerman biplane
By Brett Auten
LACEY, 96, was among five World War II vet-
erans who had gathered that day on the east side of the Missouri River at Creve Coeur Airport. The group was selected to return to the skies as a part of Dream Flights. Launched in 2011 and headquartered out of Nevada, Dream Flights is an organization that takes veterans up for a trip in a Boeing Steerman biplane. The Steerman was used to train virtually every pilot in World War II before the pilots eventually moved on to fighter planes and bombers. Lacey was elated with his 20-minute trip in the Stearman. “That is such a remarkable airplane, and they made so many of them,” Lacey said. “This was my second flight in that historic marvel. My first was a few years ago, also from Creve Coeur Airport. I was allowed to fly most of that flight. It was a blast.” 4 | CROSSROADS | NOVEMBER 2021
Lacey said that one of his daughters had heard about Dream Flights, who can be contacted at dreamflights. org to request a flight, and set the afternoon up. “I would certainly recommend the flight for other vets who qualify,” he said. “There is no other airplane that flies quite like the old Steerman.” Joining Lacey on that day were Ralph Goldsticken, Don Miller, Tom Wilhite, and George Grafton, who were from St. Louis County and Illinois. The veterans were aged 94-to-99-years old. Lacey grew up in Wheaton Illinois, enlisted in the Army on July 15, 1943 at Fort Sheridan, Illinois, and completed basic training in Texas. He wanted to be trained to become a pilot but instead, was assigned to the Army Infantry and he eventually volunteered to take a radioman post. Barraged by German artillery, with radio connection
Around Town completely lost, Lacey SUBMITTED PHOTOS later realized he surTom Lacey, a 96-year-old World vived the beginnings War II veteran, from Weldon Spring Heights, takes his seat in of the Battle of the a Boeing Steerman open cockpit Bulge. He was part of recently at Creve Coeur Airport. Lacey was among five World War the first unit to cross II veterans who were selected to the Rhine River over fly as a part of Dream Flights, an organization that takes veterans the Remagen Bridge, up for a flight in a biplane. Pictured with Lacey is Dream and continued fightFlights' Andrew Lohman. ing until the war's end. He was discharged on Feb. 2, 1946, one of only 12 men who survived of the 200 in his unit. Lacey ended up an aeronautical engineer by profession and worked for 40 years at McDonnell Douglas Corp and that is what landed him in St. Charles County. Lacey penned a book in 2019, titled, “An Infantryman's Reflections on World War II,” that can be found wherever you buy books. Rather than discussing the traumas of war, Lacey writes of experiencing friendship, heroism, innovation, close calls - even humor and treasured moments.
St. Charles County Golden Games announces 2021 results and 2022 dates Despite working around COVID and limiting the schedule to only those events held at outdoors facilities, the results of the St. Charles County Golden Games 2021 events are even better than expected. There was a total of 368 participants plus sixty-four soccer players, about half the normal attendance. The largest number of registrants were for the pickleball tournaments, followed by the miniature golf, executive golf and regular golf, and the shooting events. Shuffleboard had a good turnout, and the new event for the year, cornhole, also had a respectable number of participants Next year should be back with a full schedule of events. The 2022 dates will be April 30 – May 7, with the banquet on May 2 at The Christy of O’Fallon. Numerous volunteers are needed to run the games as the registrations increase. If you would like to be a part of this organization, please visit www.scc-goldengames.org. NOVEMBER 2021 | CROSSROADS | 5
Around Town
St. Charles County Regional Emergency Management to activate sirens during ‘destructive’ thunderstorms St. Charles County Regional Emergency Management (REM), in cooperation with the National Weather Service (NWS), is instituting changes to help alert and keep residents safe during severe storms and to cut down on confusion during outdoor warning siren testing. Following is a breakdown of these changes: • The NWS will push Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) notifications to smartphones if a thunderstorm in an area is categorized as “Destructive.” A storm in this category has at least 2.75-inch diameter (baseball-sized) hail and/or 80-plus mph winds. The alert notification will be similar to those issued by the NWS during a Tornado Warning. • When the NWS issues an alert notification for a “Destructive” storm, REM will activate the outdoor warning sirens
LET YOUR BUSINESS MEET OUR READERS
READER SURVEY RESULTS of our readers purchased from our advertisers in the past 90 days.
For Advertising
636-379-1775 info@mycnews.com
6 | CROSSROADS | NOVEMBER 2021
throughout the county. REM also activates the sirens when the NWS issues a Tornado Warning.
Wentzville elementary teacher releases newest children’s books SUBMITTED PHOTO Julie Turnipseed with Charlee and Magnolia.
• REM is moving St. Charles County’s monthly outdoor warning siren test from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. on the first Monday of the month. This will coincide with St. Louis County’s outdoor warning siren testing time to help reduce confusion for those who live and work along the St. Charles and St. Louis county border. According to the NWS, 13 of the 22 costliest weather disasters in 2020 were severe thunderstorms. This includes the costliest thunderstorm event in U.S. history: The “derecho” in August 2020 that produced straight-line wind damage across several states, including Iowa and Illinois. In some areas, wind gusts during this storm reached over 120 mph. For comparison, an EF-0 tornado has wind speeds of 65-85 mph and an EF-1 tornado has wind speeds of 86-110 mph. “From 2012 to 2021, there have only been seven thunderstorms categorized as ‘Destructive’ in our county, so this type of severe weather is rare,” Captain Chris Hunt, Director of REM, explains. “However, the derecho demonstrates how destructive storms can create tornado-level damage. As a result, issuing this alert and activating the sirens is necessary to protect our community.” REM encourages residents to stay alert during any storm event and to have multiple methods to receive emergency alerts and information. “Along with relying on smartphone notifications, have a NOAA weather radio and stay tuned to news and radio broadcasts,” Captain Hunt says. “Also, it is important to keep in mind that outdoor warning sirens are only meant to be heard outdoors, so they shouldn’t be relied upon as a sole method for notification.” For more information on severe weather safety and tips to prepare for any emergency, visit sccmo.org/REM.
Wentzville School District English Language Learner (ELL) elementary school teacher Julie Turnipseed recently announced the introduction of two new books to her Adventures of Charlee and Magnolia series. Turnipseed’s easy-to-read rhyming children’s books were published by Inovie Books and illustrated by Muthuhari Attanayake. Turnipseed will hold a book signing event for her recently released books on Nov. 17 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Bake House located at 205 E. Allen in Wentzville. Readers will have an opportunity to meet the author, as well as her daughters and dogs who are featured in the series. Children will have a space to read and then create their own book reviews. The series’ first book “Becoming Friends” was released in April 2021 and focuses on Turnipseed’s dogs meeting for the very first time. Released this Sept., the second book “Snow Much Fun!” highlights how Charlee and her family help Magnolia overcome her fear of snow. “Don’t Give Up, Magnolia” and “Charlie and Magnolia Meet Chico” are scheduled for release this November. The books feature the timid Magnolia trying to conquer stairs, as well as learning Spanish from a new neighborhood Chihuahua. Turnipseed is an elementary school teacher at Prairie View Elementary in Dardenne Prairie. The more than 20-year teaching veteran currently works with students from Brazil, China, Honduras, India, Mexico and Pakistan in the Wentzville School District. For more information, call 314-393-7767 or visit www.charleeandmagnolia.com.
Around Town
Sky Wars raises more than $5,000 for two area nonprofits Sky Wars recently held its 16th annual invitational fireworks championship that collected canned food and raised more than $5,000 for two Warren County nonprofit organizations. AGAPE collected 800 pounds of food, as well as held a raffle that raised $1,400 for the nonprofit. Dennis Holtzmann of Troy won AGAPE’s raffle to help shoot one of the event’s signature fireballs. Wags & Whiskers, formerly the Concerned Citizens for Animal Care of Warren County, raised $3,800 for its “Raise the Woof” campaign through event sponsorships and its fireball raffle. AGAPE was founded in 1996 and provides food to individuals and families who face food insecurity. It is the only full-service nonprofit agency dedicated to hunger and poverty issues in Warren County. For more information, visit http://www.agapemo.org. Founded in 2001, Wags & Whiskers is working to establish a new no-kill animal shelter for the area. For more information, visit https://wagswhiskers.org. “This is the second year Sky Wars partnered with nonprofits that are making a difference in their communities,” said Missouri Pyrotechnics Association (MOPyro) Vice President Rob Cima. “We are proud to support these two agencies and their contributions to Warren County.”
SUBMITTED PHOTO Pictured in the first row (from left) are Wags & Whiskers’ fireball winners Samantha Boyd with her mother Kathryn Hillenburg from Warren County. They are pictured with Elliot Moss and Fireball Dudes’ Scott Key and Bill Corbett.
Call for entries for the 12th Annual St. Louis Teen Talent Competition Fox Performing Arts Charitable Foundation (FPACF) has announced that registration is open for the 12th Annual St. Louis Teen Talent Competition for high school students in the bi-state St. Louis Metropolitan area. There are no fees to participate or register. This year the Preliminary Round and Semi-final Round of the competition will be back live on stage at various theatres in the St. Louis area. Students will be vying for scholarships, special awards, prizes, and the once-in-alifetime opportunity to perform in the Finals on the Fabulous Fox Theatre stage. This event showcases the most talented teens in our region who excel in the performing arts. • Contestants must be enrolled in the ninth, 10th, 11th or 12th grade in the 2021-2022 school year at a high school/ home school within a 50-mile radius from
the St. Louis Gateway Arch. • Acts may be a solo or up to six students performing as a group. • Performing arts categories include vocalists, dancers, instrumentalists, and specialty acts. • Acts may perform original or published material. • High school students can respond to the “Call for Entries” and register on-line at www.foxpacf.org. Judges for the Preliminary and Semi-final rounds are arts professionals from the St. Louis region who are asked to give each act constructive, verbal feedback following each performance. The Finalists will compete on the Fabulous Fox stage. Finalists in previous years have included classical and pop singers, a whistler, pianists,
a harpist, ukulele artists, dancers, circus artists, bands, and baton twirlers. Past Finalists have performed on tour with “Hamilton,” on NBC’s “The Voice,” “American Idol,” in The Muny, at the Sheldon Concert Hall, Shakespeare Festival St. Louis, at Gateway Grizzlies Stadium, St. Louis Cardinals baseball games and other area festivals. Students placing first, second and third will win college scholarships. Contestants who advance to the Semi-final Round will be eligible for special awards, cash prizes, and scholarships. All participants are eligible for restricted scholarships from select colleges and universities. Finalists will also be provided unique performance opportunities within the St. Louis area arranged by FPACF and by request. A complete list of prizes and opportunities is available at www.foxpacf.org. NOVEMBER 2021 | CROSSROADS | 7
Around Town
O’Fallon Parks Department opens new pickleball courts in Sports Park Two new outdoor pickleball courts in O’Fallon’s Sports Park brought this popular sport to the park when it opened on Oct. 4. The courts are lined for pickleball and include nets. Basketball hoops also are available and additional striping for basketball will be added next summer. The area also includes a new shade structure to allow participants to cool off between games. The courts join other popular pickleball and multipurpose courts in O’Fallon at Dames Park, Knaust Park and Westhoff Park. “Pickleball continues to grow in popularity, and we are always looking for ways to expand our parks’ offerings for our residents,” said Bill Mitchason, O’Fallon Parks Director. “Based on how much use we see at are other courts around the city, we are sure that this will quickly become one of Sports Park’s most popular amenities.”
PHOTO COURTESY CITY OF O’FALLON
St. Charles City-County Library offers self-service hours at the Cliff View Branch The St. Charles City-County Library now offers an option that allows customers to use the library for a few extra hours each week. The Cliff View Branch Library at 10 Cliff View Drive in Wentzville, is now open for self-service hours. Customers have the option to
8 | CROSSROADS | NOVEMBER 2021
access the branch outside of the times that doors are open to the public. These additional unstaffed hours give customers extended time at the library for browsing, studying or working. Eligible library card holders can request access to Cliff View Self Service Hours by visiting any branch to register and verify their contact information, then agree to the program’s terms and conditions. Once registered, they can use their approved library cards to enter the branch during early morning hours, 5 – 9 a.m. daily, and on Sundays from 5 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. No staff will be on site during self-service hours. Customers who generally require assistance at the library are encouraged to visit during regular open hours. During self-service hours, customers can browse the collection, pick up holds, check out their items, connect to WiFi and public computers, print/fax/scan documents, and utilize quiet study areas independently. They have access to most areas in the building, including restrooms and are monitored remotely through cameras inside and outside of the building. The security system and procedures that the library is utilizing for self-service hours have been tested and implemented with great success in libraries throughout the U.S. and Canada. “We staff library branches according to what days and times most people use them. Self-service hours provide access to our customers who need the library outside of those traditional hours,” says Library Director Jason Kuhl. “Self-service hours are not intended to replace staff, but to extend our ability to serve as many people as we can using the resources we have.” While self-service hours are available only at the Cliff View Branch at this time, the library hopes that the program can be successfully duplicated at other locations in the future. Find out more about Cliff View Self Service Hours and user eligibility requirements at mylibrary.org/self-service-hours.
Around Town
Gateway Fiber expands gigabit internet network into Dardenne Prairie and Lake Saint Louis Fiber optic internet provider Gateway Fiber is now taking orders for its residential and commercial high-speed internet services in Dardenne Prairie, Lake Saint Louis, and other parts of St. Charles County. Fiber network construction has begun in Dardenne Prairie, Lake Saint Louis and Wentzville, with customers in several neighborhoods already enjoying their high-speed internet service. More neighborhoods are coming online every week as construction continues throughout the area. “Dardenne Prairie is excited that Gateway Fiber is coming to our community,” said Mayor John Gotway. “Reliable high-speed internet is critical to our community, for both residents and businesses. Having another choice is a win for everyone.” Mayor Jason Law of Lake Saint Louis joined Gotway in his enthusiasm for Gateway’s entry into the area. “Lake Saint Louis is thrilled to be able to offer another option to our residents,” said Law. “Gateway’s new service will help meet the technological needs of the community, both residential and commercial.” A Missouri-based company, Gateway Fiber is on a mission to positively impact the communities it serves, advance economic development, and bridge the digital divide – right in its own backyard. Gateway offers flat-rate pricing, no data caps, no contracts, no installation fees, and speeds up to 1 Gigabit per second (Gbps) with symmetrical upload and download speeds on its 100% fiber-optic network all the way into the home or business. “Internet customers are looking for consistent, high-speed internet service at a reasonable price for all their devices,” said Heath Sellenriek, President and Co-Founder of Gateway Fiber. “So, Gateway is continuing to invest in broadband infrastructure across the region, deliver an exceptional customer experience, and partner with the local communities we serve.” Gateway Fiber already serves thousands of customers in Wentzville, Troy, Moscow Mills, Winfield, Old Monroe, Hawk Point, Warrenton and Wright City, which is also the loca-
SUBMITTED PHOTO
tion of their company headquarters. “Today’s internet customers deserve better,” said Sellenriek. “They deserve simplicity and transparency in pricing, and they deserve customer service with a local touch. Gateway provides all of that and more.” Over the next several weeks and months, Gateway’s construction crews will begin building the 100% fiber-optic network infrastructure to support these new areas. Thanks to Gateway’s commitment to excel-
lent community relations, construction will move as quickly as possible with minimal disruption. Gateway will be actively engaged in each neighborhood during construction and available to answer questions. Customers can sign up for Gateway’s highspeed internet services through GatewayFiber.com. Those who live in an area of the county not yet covered can pre-order the service with no obligation.
www.gwrymca.org/capital-campaign
NOVEMBER 2021 | CROSSROADS | 9
HEAVENLY SLEEP Local chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace provides beds for children in need By Brett Auten
W
hen Bill Brunner walked into the two boys’ room, he saw the yellow foam mattress topper one had been sleeping on. Tucked away into the closet, this makeshift sleeping arrangement was starting to tatter and deteriorate. Brunner and Ken Kaibel were there to set up a brand new bunk bed for the youngsters. New everything; mattress, pillows, blankets and linens. “They were living with their grandma and dad, who had cleaned himself up,” Brunner said. “There was no mother around.” But before the sheets were pulled tight, the young man had one request. “He wanted to put that old topper on top of his brand new mattress,” Brunner recalled. “The child wanted it. I was not going to tell him no.” 10 | CROSSROADS | NOVEMBER 2021
Brunner and Kaibel launched a local chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace where the mission and the objective is simple; a bed is a basic need. Especially so for a child. “A bed provides so much more than just a place to sleep,” Brunner said. “It's a security blanket. It makes sure you're prepared for a good school day. No kid should sleep on the floor in our town.” Volunteers for Sleep in Heavenly Peace build, assemble and deliver quality bunk beds to children and families in need. While so many great charities provide clothing, meals and toys to families in need, few offer suitable beds and bedding to the kids in these families. “We were in Wentzville and one of the boys was sleeping on an air mattress and we had to wake him up and roll him out,” Brunner said. “By the time we left, he was back
SUBMITTED PHOTOS Sleep in Heavenly Peace is a group of volunteers dedicated to building, assembling and delivering top-notch bunk beds to children and families in need. The organization has grown steadily over time, and is working on opening more chapters in different states. Bill Brunner and Ken Kaibel have been constructing and delivering beds in the St. Charles County since the early part of 2021. They were inspired in to start their own chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace after attending builds at a Maryland Heights SHP chapter.
in bed with his sister next him. You should have seen the smile on their faces.” Kaibel and Brunner met at Wentzville United Methodist Church. They attended a build in Maryland Heights and then went to Iowa for a Sleep in Heavenly Peace leadership training. The Way Church in Wentzville has also teamed up to ship built beds. Kaibel, of Troy, said there are 31 beds ready to go. Over the summer, they fulfilled 20 re-
quests. “Those moments touch your heart,” he said. Brunner and Kaibel are looking for anyone interested in lending a hand in either building or finding homes for the beds they have built so far. The beds they have come from builds held in May and September. The beds come with brand new everything, as used linens and blankets are not an acceptable form of donating. “We will take bedding drives
or homemade quilts, as long as it is not used,” Kaibel said. “So far, we have been only sponsored by churches. But we would love to team with a business looking to do a team build.” The beds are twin size, stackable bunk beds. They have delivered single beds in the past. “Churches, business, high school shop classes, whoever wants to help,” Brunner said. “Right now, we are needing to find people who need the
beds. We are hoping that when word gets out, the floodgates will start to open.” If another build is scheduled for this year, it is not certain, but Brunner said to keep checking the group’s Facebook page, SHP Wentzville or email Brunner at Bill.Brunner@shpbeds.org. If you would like to request a bed, it is pertinent that you do so through the Sleep in Heavenly Peace website under the Apply For a Bed tab.
NOVEMBER 2021 | CROSSROADS | 11
Always An Adventure
GROWTH COMES TO THE
MOUNTAINS — BY AVALANCHE
DRIVING IN TRAFFIC AS IT CRAWLED ITS WAY through the formerly small town made me think I was in a large metro area. What used to be a five minute drive took over a half-hour that day before I made my way out to the still-crowded-but-moving highway lanes to get back home. As I went through the next town of 6,000, a sign at the entrance to a townhome development under construction proudly announced that the prices of the new homes were “starting in the low $900,000’s.” Well, isn’t that nice, I thought. With wages in the area not much higher than they were in the late 1980’s, it’s no wonder that businesses are having a hard time finding employees to show up, and actually work. Staci and I used to live in that town in the 80’s, and even with house prices then, we knew we had to work hard to save up money for a decent down payment, as entry level homes cost $60,000. How times change. Turning up the two lane state highway toward home, the obscenely priced townhomes gave way to a development of “starter castles” on a golf course, then on the outskirts of town, a couple of the remaining few ranches in the area. A few more miles past that, the valley narrows down with steep canyon walls on either side separated by the river and a little flat ground, with just a smattering of smaller homes, generally owned by members of what used to be known as “the middle class.” Anywhere else in the country, most of these homes would be valued under a quarter-million dollars. Here, that figure needs to be multiplied by a factor of three or four. The local news had a story about a new 122 room motel going up, somehow sandwiched in between a ball field and a subdivision, near the development where I had just turned off to go home. Several hundred more homes and townhomes are approved to be built in every remaining nook and cranny left in the area – except our side valley, which simply doesn’t have any more space to build. Moving into the backcountry, the Forest Service is planning on going to a reservation system for camping in a significant portion of the local wilderness area. Even 20 miles away from the nearest road, overuse has taken its toll on campsites, trails, lakes and streams. Human waste and trash has become overwhelming in the most popular areas, and limiting the number of campers has become a necessity. Not long ago, it was a simple matter to load up your backpack, start hiking, and camp where ever you wanted. 12 | CROSSROADS | NOVEMBER 2021
No more. The state wildlife department recently announced that this year there were 50,000 more applications for big game hunting licenses than in past seasons. In a state that usually sees 200,000 licenses issued for big game, that’s a huge increase. Alas, there aren’t 50,000 more deer and elk, and as previously mentioned, the backcountry is already maxed out. All of these circumstances were weighing heavily on me as I drove up the highway to take the dogs out for a walk. On this morning, there were few cars on the road. As I went into the narrowest part of the canyon, I saw a Bald Eagle flying right over the river, paralleling the highway. I slowed down and matched his pace, about 30 mph. The majestic bird kept his pace and focus right over the river, probably looking for a fish for breakfast. The highway diverged from the river, and we went our separate ways. The Newfys and I enjoyed a walk along the river a few miles up valley, with the leaves turning brilliant reds and yellows. The air was crisp, and there was fresh snow on the tops of the high peaks. The creeping sprawl of “civilization” and its fallout was forgotten, and the day was ours to enjoy. The hustle and bustle was left behind; this moment was a throwback to a few decades ago, and the autumn morning peace and beauty was a welcome gift.
PHOTOS BY AVALANCHE
Moore On Life
Brain freeze BY CINDY MOORE
ANYBODY ELSE OUT THERE HAVE PROBLEMS REMEMBERING NAMES? I believe it’s a direct result of hiding away from the Corona for over a year and not a sign of age. Either way, it stinks out loud and can be embarrassing.
My husband and I were grocery shopping the other day when from around the corner came a familiar couple. I immediately recognized their faces, but was soon followed by an overwhelming feeling of dread because I had absolutely no idea what their names were. Instead of meeting them head on I did what any withering coward would do in that situation; I jumped into a bin of watermelons and burrowed under. Just my luck they were melon shopping that day. “Well hello!” said the woman. “How convenient that we ran into you. Could you pick a ripe one and hand it to us while you’re in there?” I sheepishly came out lugging their giant fruit ball then brushed myself off. She addressed my husband and me by name, then gave me that look…you know the one, “Okay, I’ve addressed you by your name. Now it’s your turn to call us by our names to test your recall skills and alert everyone within earshot of your
diminished brain function.” I did the duck and dodge – quite cleverly I might add. “Here’s your melon. Do you have a good recipe? I’d love to have it.” “My recipe” she said, “is cut and serve.” Then she tried to pin me down. “You do remember us don’t you?” “Of course I do,” I lied. “I just need one teensy beensy hint.” “How about, our son is married to your daughter.” Still nothing; I then took another play out of the old weakened brain playbook – pass the buck. “Of course! Sweetie,” I asked my husband, “you know these people, right?” His jaw went slack and his eyeballs looked like golf balls. I knew that look; the light was on in his brain but everyone inside had packed up and moved to his liver. He quickly crawled into the melon bin and hid. Just then security saved us. A big burly guy growled, “I have a report of a disturbance. I’m going to need your names.” He wrote down our names then told us to leave the store and quit harassing the melons. Before we left I snagged a copy of the report he filled out. I’ll file it under, “Names I need to remember while in the produce section.”
NOVEMBER 2021 | CROSSROADS | 13
Automobile Alley
THE 2022
HYUNDAI SANTA CRUZ
BRINGS STYLISH DESIGN TO THE CROSSOVER TRUCK MARKET
BY DAVID FINKELSTEIN WITH FINAL ASSEMBLY IN MONT- senger interior space, fuel efficiency and GOMERY ALABAMA, Hyundai Motors ease of parking.
is entering the compact sport adventure vehicle market for consumers that might be cross-shopping the Honda Ridgeline and perhaps the Jeep Gladiator. The vehicle being showcased is the modern designed, four door, five passenger 2022 Santa Cruz. This crossover truck would likely appeal to both the outdoorsy sports enthusiasts, as well as buyers that would favor the use of a small unibody-based truck for business purposes during the work week. Its bold yet highly sophisticated design and cutting-edge maneuverable chassis helps to translates to a car-like drive that's further focused towards consumers that wouldn't necessarily even consider a truck. Additionally, it's formulated on a longer, yet somewhat wider version of their new Tucson crossover platform as the SE trim level of Santa Cruz comes with front-wheel-drive and starts out at $23,990. If you upgrade to their SEL Premium and Limited models, it comes standard with full time, all-wheel-drive (AWD) and a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine. These versions show a price point of $35,680 and $39,720 respectively, while $1,185 in destination charges will need to be added for all models. State-of-the-art safety enhancements and cutting-edge connectivity also help embody this vehicle’s footprint. This new Hyundai sport adventure pickup also has features such as a "roll back" style rear cargo cover and hidden under bed freight storage compartment. Owners will also value its comfort levels, pas14 | CROSSROADS | NOVEMBER 2021
Everything about the Santa Cruz reflects a stylish purpose in its design execution. The forward view of Santa Cruz deploys a hidden lighting signature that becomes visible within the grille when illuminated. The daytime running lamps present a parametric jewel design with high-tech precision detailing. The bold, cascading grille emphasizes the front view, supported by a safety skid plate within the lower front fascia. Its sizable hood and fenders further communicate an imposing first impression. Overall, the profile of Santa Cruz signals a head turning design. Large, 20-inch alloy wheels with it's a multi-triangular design are surrounded by pronounced wheel arches that helps to convey Santa Cruz's off-road capabilities. Furthermore, powerful body side character lines helps this product to certainly stand out in its segment. Integrated into the rear bumper are corner bumper steps to help gain access to the cargo box itself. The attractive rear lighting signature embossed with “Designed in California” is a testament to the passion of Hyundai’s west coast based design team. Small, discrete "somewhat hidden" renowned details are found throughout the exterior and interior. The vehicle’s interior is quite sophisticated and refined as it hinges on a twin cockpit that circumvents the passengers. Design teams focused on ease of ingress and egress and ergonomic comfort on long drives. The premium center dash assembly further displays an easy to navigate/boarder-less 10-inch infotain-
ment screen. Positioned under the rear seats is convenient, out of sight storage. Santa Cruz offers two efficient powertrains. The standard engine is a 2.5L direct-injected in-line four-cylinder engine rated at some 190 horsepower. Also offered is their prior mentioned 2.5L direct-injected turbocharged powerplant. It has an output rating estimated at 275 horsepower. These engines are matched to an eight-speed automatic transmission, while the transmission is slightly different with the turbo setup. Standard smart sense safety and convenience features are included such as forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian and cyclist detection, automatic lane keeping assist and driver attention warning system. With over 820 U.S. based dealership network, this all new truck comes with a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty, five-year/60,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty and complimentary maintenance for three years/36,000 miles of normal oil changes and tire rotation service. EPA numbers range from; 19-MPG city, and 27-highway, depending on the driveline setup.
Entertainment
Remembering
GEORGE REEVES,
TV’s original Superman BY STEVE BRYAN
I
PHOTO COURTESY FOCUS FEATURES
and hit one of the bystanders. While the small screen Superman could laugh at gangsters and bullets, George Reeves was found dead at age 45 in his bedroom at home. The victim of a gunshot wound, his death was originally ruled a suicide but others believed he had been murdered. Former showgirl Toni Mannix, played by Diane Lane in “Hollywoodland,” had been romantically involved with Reeves, as was New York socialite Lenore Lemmon. Both women were suspected of killing the actor. “Hollywoodland” looked back at a dark chapter in Hollywood lore. Ben Affleck did a great job playing George Reeves, showing Reeves’ frustration at being typecast as a superhero. Reeves had a small role in “From Here to Eternity” and, at a screening, he heard – to his dismay – the audience yell out “There’s Superman!” Despite these frustrations, Reeves reportedly loved his young fans and did not want to tarnish his image. Rest in peace, George Reeves. You are a still a hero. “Hollywoodland,” rated R, is available on YouTube, Amazon Prime and other streaming services. PHOTO COURTESY SUPERMAN INC.
recently watched several episodes of “The Adventures of Superman” on a free digital broadcast station. In this classic 1950’s television series, George Reeves played both intrepid reporter Clark Kent and his heroic alter ego Superman. Unlike the mild-mannered comic book character, Reeves portrayed Kent as a stand-up guy who often took charge of investigations. Even though Clark and Superman were very much alike, his co-workers never guessed the truth. “Hollywoodland,” a 2006 drama, examined the life of George Reeves and the mysteries surrounding his death. Born Jan. 5, 1914, Reeves became an actor and appeared in “Gone with the Wind” as one of the “Tarleton Twins” who courted Scarlett O’Hara (Vivian Leigh) in the opening scenes. This was a small but eye-catching role for Reeves, who had to dye his hair red to play the part. In the 1940’s, Reeves also appeared in several “Hopalong Cassidy” westerns and other “B” films. The actor first put on cape and tights for “Superman and the Mole Men,” a 1951 theatrical release that also served as the pilot episode for the TV series. Though Superman serials were shown to children in theaters, this was the first feature-length film about the Man of Steel. The series ran until 1958, but when I was grade school, the show made a return to afternoon television. Though he had passed away years earlier, Reeves entertained a new generation of fans after his death. Reeves’ career included films such as “The Adventures of Sir Galahad” and a role in a “Jungle Jim” picture. As Superman, though, Reeves became the idol of countless children. “Hollywoodland” recreated an incident where a young fan brought a gun to an event see if the actor was really invulnerable. Still in character, the quick-thinking Reeves explained that while he was bullet-proof, the bullet might ricochet
Look, up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's Superman! NOVEMBER 2021 | CROSSROADS | 15
For the Love of Food
SPECIAL CENTERPIECES FOR F
holiday celebrations
ew things bring family and friends together quite like the holidays, and serving up an elegant, seasonal meal centered around a mouthwatering main dish is a recipe for creating lasting memories with the ones you love. Forging a fabulous holiday experience for the special people in your life starts
with choosing a flavorful, tender cut of meat to serve as the centerpiece of the meal. Hand-cut by expert butchers, options like Spiral-Sliced Ham, Boneless Heart of Prime Rib Roast and Butcher’s Cut Filet Mignons from Omaha Steaks can serve as the focal point of a memorable holiday dinner. Flash frozen
to capture freshness and flavor, you can select a standout cut of meat from the comfort of your home and have it delivered directly to your door in time to put together a tender, juicy main course. Find more holiday recipe inspiration at OmahaSteaks.com/blog/recipes.
RUM AND COLA HOLIDAY HAM Recipe courtesy of Omaha Steaks Executive Chef David Rose PREP TIME: 30 MINUTES COOK TIME: 80 MINUTES SERVINGS: 10-12
INGREDIENTS: HAM: 1 Spiral-sliced ham (8 pounds) GLAZE: 1 cup cherry fruit spread 3/4 cup dark spiced rum 3/4 cup cola 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
DIRECTIONS: To make ham: Thaw frozen ham in refrigerator 24-48 hours. Remove from refrigerator and let ham come to room temperature, about 30-45 minutes. Preheat oven to 325 F. Remove ham from foil and film. Return ham to foil wrapping and place in oven-safe roasting pan. Roll
16 | CROSSROADS | NOVEMBER 2021
foil down leaving 2 inches of foil around bottom of ham. Place roasting pan with ham in oven on lower rack and heat uncovered 60-75 minutes, until ham starts to brown. While ham cooks, make glaze. To make glaze: In medium saucepot, whisk fruit spread, rum, cola, Worcestershire sauce,
Dijon mustard and salt until well incorporated. Bring to boil then reduce heat to medium. Simmer over medium heat 10 minutes then remove from heat. Cool to room temperature. During last 15 minutes of cooking, glaze ham every 5 minutes.
For the Love of Food
DIJON-HERB PRIME RIB ROAST with Garlic Butter Mushrooms
INGREDIENTS: DIJON-HERB RUB: 1/4 cup minced fresh Italian parsley 1/4 cup minced fresh oregano 1/4 cup minced fresh thyme leaves 1/4 cup minced fresh rosemary leaves 3 fresh garlic cloves, minced 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 1/2 cup canola oil 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika PRIME RIB ROAST: 1 Boneless heart of prime rib roast (4 pounds), thawed kosher salt, to taste ground black pepper, to taste 1/4 cup canola oil GARLIC BUTTER MUSHROOMS: 6 tablespoons olive oil 1/2 cup small diced yellow onion 4 fresh garlic cloves, minced 1 pound button mushrooms, cleaned and quartered 1 pinch kosher salt, plus additional, to taste, divided 1 pinch ground black pepper, plus additional, to taste, divided 1/2 cup chicken stock 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 1/4 cup finely chopped Italian parsley
Recipe courtesy of Omaha Steaks Executive Chef David Rose PREP TIME: 15 MINUTES | COOK TIME: 3 HOURS | SERVINGS: 4-6
DIRECTIONS: TO MAKE RUB: In medium bowl, whisk parsley, oregano, thyme, rosemary, garlic, Dijon mustard, oil, salt, black pepper and paprika until well incorporated. TO MAKE PRIME RIB ROAST: Pat prime rib roast dry on all sides with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper, to taste. Allow roast to come to room temperature about 30 minutes. Rub Dijon herb rub all over prime rib roast and allow to stand 10 minutes. Preheat oven to 250 F. In large cast-iron pan, warm oil over mediumhigh heat. Sear roast on all sides until golden brown, 2-3 minutes per side. Place seared prime rib on wire rack-lined sheet pan and place in oven.
Cook until internal temperature is 10 F below desired cooking doneness. Rest 15-20 minutes before slicing. TO MAKE MUSHROOMS: In large pan, warm olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced onions and saute about 1 minute. Add minced garlic and lightly saute until fragrant, about 20 seconds. Add mushrooms and pinch of salt and ground pepper to pan. Saute 3-4 minutes, or until mushrooms are tender. Add chicken stock and reduce to one-third in volume, 3-4 minutes. Add butter and parsley to pan and saute until butter is melted and incorporated. Immediately remove from heat and season, to taste, with salt and pepper. Serve mushrooms with prime rib roast. CONTINUED PAGE 18 NOVEMBER 2021 | CROSSROADS | 17
For the Love of Food
SUYA-DUSTED FILET MIGNON with “Red Rice” Risotto
Recipe courtesy of Omaha Steaks Executive Chef David Rose PREP TIME: 15 MINUTES COOK TIME: 1 HOUR SERVINGS: 4
INGREDIENTS: SUYA DUST: 2 cups roasted cashews 1 tablespoon chicken bouillon 1 tablespoon, plus 1 teaspoon, smoked paprika 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon ground black pepper 2 teaspoons ground ginger 2 teaspoons garlic powder 2 teaspoons onion powder “RED RICE” RISOTTO: 3 tablespoons canola oil 1/2 cup diced yellow onion 3 fresh garlic cloves, smashed 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper 1 tablespoon tomato paste 1 large beefsteak tomato (about 1/2 pound), chopped 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus additional, to taste, divided (optional) 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper, plus additional, to taste, divided (optional) 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice 4 cups warmed chicken stock, divided
(continued) 1/2 cup finely chopped Italian parsley 1 cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese
FILET MIGNON: 4 Filet mignons (6 ounces each) kosher salt ground black pepper
DIRECTIONS: TO MAKE SUYA DUST: In food processor, blend cashews, chicken bouillon, paprika, cayenne pepper, bell pepper, black pepper, ginger, garlic powder and onion powder into fine powder. TO MAKE “RED RICE” RISOTTO: In medium saucepan, warm canola oil over medium-high heat. Add onions, garlic and red bell pepper, sauteing until lightly caramelized, about 1 minute. Add tomato paste to pan and saute until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add chopped tomato, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper; continue sauteing until tomato starts to break down and soften, 3-4 minutes. Reduce heat to simmer and cook 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and finely blend in food processor. Set aside. In separate medium saucepan, warm olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add Arborio rice and stir until slightly nutty and
18 | CROSSROADS | NOVEMBER 2021
4 tablespoons canola oil 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 clove garlic 1 thyme sprig
translucent, about 1 minute. Add pureed tomato-pepper mixture and 1 cup chicken stock; bring to boil then reduce heat to medium. Add 1 cup stock each time Arborio rice absorbs almost all broth. Continuously stir risotto each time stock is added to rice. Keep adding stock until risotto is al dente and still viscous then stir in parsley and Parmesan cheese. Season, to taste, with salt and pepper, if desired. TO MAKE FILET MIGNON: Pat steaks dry with paper towels and liberally season with salt and ground black pepper on both sides. In large cast-iron skillet, warm canola oil over medium-high heat. Place filets in skillet and sear 3 minutes. Flip steaks and add butter, garlic clove and thyme. Baste steaks with butter and allow filets to finish cooking, 3-4 minutes for medium-rare doneness. Rest filets 7-8 minutes. Serve over “red rice” risotto and sprinkle suya dust over filets.
Community Calendar
NOVEMber 2 Election Day
11 Veterans Day
7 Daylight Savings Time Ends
25 Thanksgiving Day
10 Marine Corps Birthday
29 First Day of Hanukkah
26 Black Friday
NOVEMBER 2021 | CROSSROADS | 19
WWW.TREESBYWOODY.NET
WWW.PROACTIVEPRINTSERVICES.COM
FREE Online Subscription at www. MYCNEWS