CrossRoads: December 2020 by Community News

Home holidays for the

DECEMBER

2020 writers

VOL 16 | NO 12

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 2019 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 | DECEMBER 2020

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.

DECEMBER

2020

contents

Around Town Local news and events

Nonprofit Profile 2020 holiday festivities at the National Museum of Transportation

Feature Story Home for the holidays COVID-19 has impacted the holiday season in St. Charles County as citizens look to celebrate safely

Always an Adventure Building dams

Moore on Life Wish list

Automobile Alley The 2020 Ford Mustang powers up a classic American car brand

Entertainment New films debuting simultaneously on streaming services and in theaters

For the Love of Food Popping up festive holiday fun

Community Calendar: December

On the Cover: Submitted photo

DECEMBER 2020 | CROSSROADS | 3

Around Town

St. Charles County Executive urges residents to change behaviors immediately to stop COVID spread With the number of positive COVID-19 cases rising drastically in the county, St. Charles County Executive Steve Ehlmann is sending a stern message to residents: Change your behaviors immediately to stop the spread. “Our county is facing a severe rise in positive cases and hospitalizations, as well as an increase in deaths,” says Ehlmann. “I am calling on each county resident to do what is necessary to help us get this virus under control.” Ehlmann did not order the closing of any restaurants or bars at the onset of COVID-19 in the spring, and instead entrusted residents to limit their activities to work and those they found essential. The county was successful in keeping its numbers down, but as people relaxed their healthy practices in the summer and early fall, infections are soaring. “One of the biggest issues we have is that people are not limiting their contacts,” Ehlmann says. “We all must be doing that immediately so we can keep our kids in school and our businesses open. Our hospitals tell me they are on the verge of being at capacity, and if that happens, there won’t be beds available for anyone, no matter what health care issue they are facing.” Ehlmann says the spread of COVID-19 is such that the actions we take today will prevent new outbreaks 14 days from now.

“I am not asking people to stop living their lives,” he says, “but I am asking them to limit their activities to the critical things such as work and school. By doing so, we can better ensure that the community can enjoy a happy and healthy holiday season.” Ehlmann is advising everyone to do the following: • Limit daily activities to work, school and necessary errands. • Avoid bars and restaurants where you can’t social distance. • Use carry-out rather than dining in. • Wear a mask in public or when around people outside of your household. • Keep weekly contacts to less than 10 people. • Avoid groups that exceed 10 people. • Frequently sanitize commonly touched surfaces. • Wash your hands often. “It shouldn’t be any surprise to anyone that these are things we need to do,” Ehlmann says. “We just need to do them. All of them. All of us.” For more information on COVID-19, visit sccmo.org/COVID, or call the Department of Public Health hotline at 636-949-1899.

St. Charles City-County Library supports students, parents, and schools As coronavirus precautions continue to create challenges for students, the St. Charles City-County Library is committed to supporting parents and teachers as they search for effective ways to educate and inspire. Parents and students can access Tutor.com, an online resource available at myLibrary.org, for free one-on-one tutoring and homework help. Customers can use their library cards to access: • One-on-one tutoring by qualified, trained tutors in over 40 subjects. • On-demand help with homework, including essay proofreading. • Individualized coaching for parents of virtual learners.

4 | CROSSROADS | DECEMBER 2020

• College entrance exam (SAT/ACT) test prep and study tools. The library has also partnered with area schools to offer a One Read shared community reading experience featuring “The Radium Girls” by Kate Moore. Students will use the book at school for critical thinking through book discussions, as a starting point in a study of workers’ rights, and to explore local environmental issues. At the same time, the library will offer virtual One Read events, and provide other books, articles, and movies that will help readers of all ages explore the lives of “the shining women.” Register to read at myLibrary.org/ one-read. Whether students are just starting preschool or they are in their final years of formal learning, parents and caregivers are an integral part of their educational journey. The library has created a new “Resources for Parents” page on the library’s website. This page offers a one-stopshop featuring library services and resources that support learning, whether students are in the classroom or learning at home. The page will be updated regularly with new information, so parents and caregivers are encouraged to check in often at myLibrary.org/resourcesparents. Students, parents, and teachers can count on access to free library resources that promote and encourage education in any learning environment. Visit the library’s website or stop by any branch to check out materials that will challenge and entertain students of all ages.

Around Town

Two WSD educators named regional physical Product pantry fills void for area education teachers of the year Two Wentzville School District physical education teachers, Ami Schulte of Timberland High School and Jennifer Werner of Wentzville Middle School, have been named SHAPE America Central District Physical Education Teacher of the Year for their respective grade levels by the Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE) America. Schulte and Werner were both selected among state teachers of Photos courtesy Wentzville School District the year to represent the Central Ami Schulte of Timberland High School District which includes nine states: Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming. They are both now eligible for SHAPE America National Physical Education Teacher of the Year at their grade level. “To have two Central District recipients from the same school district for two consecutive years is unprecedented,” said Executive Director of the Missouri Associa- Jennifer Werner of Wentzville Middle School tion for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance Dr. Thomas Loughrey. “This continues the Wentzville School District tradition of being representative of the highest quality educators.” Schulte, who has worked for the WSD since 2002, is well known for her innovative teaching strategies and zest for creating strong relationships with her students. “This is a tremendous accomplishment for Mrs. Schulte and Timberland High School,” said Dr. Kyle Lindquist, principal of Timberland High School, “We are extremely proud of Mrs. Schulte and this wonderful accomplishment.” Werner has only worked for the WSD since 2019, but according to Principal Kelly Mantz, she has quickly found ways for her students to become involved in new learning, diligent in finding ways to be inclusive of all students and always seeks new paths for students to succeed. “We were thrilled when Jennifer joined our PE staff because of the positivity, passion, and commitment that she has been able to share with our staff and our students. She deserves to be recognized for her dedication to our students,” Mantz said. Schulte and Werner will undergo a series of interviews with national leaders in the field. The National Teachers of the Year will be announced during the 2021 SHAPE America National Convention and Exposition to be held in Baltimore in April 2021.

Submitted photo New Salem Baptist Church Product Pantry was recently awarded a $3,000 Operation Round Up grant. The women’s ministry is the only outreach program in eastern Lincoln County to distribute non-perishable items for personal hygiene and cleaning products.

While there are multiple food pantries in Lincoln County, New Salem Baptist Church has found a niche and is filling a gap that others do not. Several years ago, the Winfield church, located on Highway EE, opened its product pantry, which distributes nonperishable items for personal hygiene and cleaning products. The pantry is the only outreach program in eastern Lincoln County that provides families with items such as paper towels, toilet paper and trash bags. Most of the items the pantry distributes cannot be purchased with food stamps or any other government assistance. “We are grateful to have the opportunity to help others in a way that God has led us,” said Evelyn Head, product pantry director and chairperson. The pantry, which assists over 600 families per year, has filled a void for low-income individuals and families and also when disaster or unforeseen situations arise in the community. This year’s COVID-19 pandemic has increased the need as well. Since fundraisers have been canceled, the pantry organizers were thrilled to be awarded a $3,000 Operation Round Up grant in September to offset some of the group’s financial losses. Monetary donations can be mailed to the church at 1383 Highway EE, Winfield, MO 63389. The goal of Operation Round Up is to help address needs in the areas of health, ed¬ucation, home weatherization, youth, com¬munity and emergency services that cannot be met with other resources.

WWW.DARDENNEPRAIRIE.ORG

DECEMBER 2020 | CROSSROADS | 5

Around Town The Boeing Employee Community Trust donated a $5,000 check to the Tri County Advisory Board to Probation and Parole. Pictured (from left) is Larry DuFour, Boeing Grant President William H. Locke Jr., Karleen Rogers and Cheryl Glass.

SUPPORTING SECOND CHANCES The Tri-County Advisory to Probation and Parole works to ensure that offenders reentering society have the right kind of advice, support and assistance By Brett Auten

It’s a hard knock life out there; especially when you have, legallyspeaking, stubbed your toe a few times too many. Since 1994, the Tri-County Advisory to Probation and Parole has done its best to ensure that offenders reentering society have the right kind of advice, support and assistance in order to make their reemergence a positive and enduring one. It is an all-volunteer army as the board members (made up of citizens and business leaders) receive zero monetary compensation for their services. Various members and the District 17 Missouri State Probation and Parole Office-St. Charles Co. donate office expenses at no cost to the organization. The individuals, who come from St. Charles, Warren and Lincoln counties, served by the board are on probation and/or parole and are often found in homeless shelters. “Society does not provide the same resources to this group of individuals,” longtime board member Karleen Rogers said. “The social impact of this is that they may return to criminal activities because they believe it is the only way for them to provide the basic daily needs. A lot are on medication, either or both, for physical or emotional reasons. We can’t let this happen for danger of reoffending.” Clients for the board are found through probation and parole case managers. The board runs a tight ship with $600 allocated per individual for the entire year. Unlike the single mother looking to get a leg up on tough time, or a military veteran needing a better job, they are not the first to get a helping hand. “These people are generally not well-received in public,” Rogers said. “The majority were incarcerated due to drugs. There are not 6 | CROSSROADS | DECEMBER 2020

Submitted photos Pictured (from left) is Sara Fueling, Tri-County Advisory Board President Mike Shea, Esther Anglos, Karleen Rogers, and Linda Johnson.

many who have violent or sexual criminal backgrounds. And some are reentering the world out of prison as senior citizens. That is a big challenge to face.” Through loans and grants the board provides assistance with chemical dependency evaluations and treatment, housing, utility assistance, medical assistance, psychological evaluations and transportation costs to treatment. “We don’t have public transportation and a lot of our clients don’t have their license or access to a vehicle,” Karleen Rogers said. “The CONTINUED PAGE 7

Around Town

Bill and Karleen Rogers

services we provide are pretty broad. We can help with anything. We helped a client with some dental work just recently.” The board raises funds through government grants, private donations and fundraising Pictured are Tri County Advisory Board to Probation and Parole Board members at an appreciation dinner hosted by Probation & Parole events. But with the COVID19 outbreak, the District 17 (from left) past president Henry DeWoskin, Esther Anglos, Larry DuFour, Karleen Rogers and Jason Cleveland. once thriving fundraising events have ground to a halt. members include officers: Jenna Conley- Board President, Larry DuOne of the main goals of board members is to educate judges, the four- Board Vice President, Esther Angelo- Board Treasurer, Karleen legal community and legislatures about programs and treatment Rogers- Board Secretary. Members include: Sara Fuelling, Jennifer projects. The board continually works to maintain a partnership Hamilton, Joshua Knight, Bill Rogers, Michael Shea, and Michael between the community and the Missouri Department of Correc- Smith. District 17-St. Charles Co. Probation & Parole Liaison Katie tions. The board supports the development and implementation of Bratton, District 38-Lincoln & Warren County Probation & Parole programs related to community- based offender supervision, while Liaison Jennifer Zaiss. promoting community understanding and involvement. For more information, contact Katie Bratton at the Probation and The Tri-County Advisory Board to Probation and Parole Board Parole office at 636-940-3333.

Help control the risk of holiday season home fires In a year when large holiday gatherings may not be possible, the fire damage restoration specialists with SERVPRO in the O Fallon area say that a focus on family decorating traditions and more intimate celebrations may take on extra significance. “It’s as important to keep safety top of mind with a small family gathering as it is with a large holiday party,” says Rick Isaacson, CEO of Servpro Industries, LLC. “We all enjoy bringing the glow of the holiday season to our homes with Christmas trees or menorahs and candlelight, but these statistics from the U.S. Fire Administration show how easy it is for home decorating to turn into a home disaster.” • The top three days for home candle fires are Christmas Day, New Year’s Day and New Year’s Eve. • More than half of the home decoration

fires in December are started by candles. • A heat source too close to the Christmas tree causes one in every four winter fires. • On average, one of every 52 reported home Christmas tree fires resulted in death. In addition to exercising caution with candles and heat sources, it is important to follow manufacturers’ guidelines for holiday lighting, says Isaacson. “According to the National Fire Protection Association, electrical distribution or lighting equipment was involved in 44 percent of home Christmas tree fires. Though Christmas tree fires may not be common, they can be devastating to more than the house itself. They can destroy irreplaceable photos, mementos, and family heirlooms and even cost lives,” says Isaacson. “To help keep your holidays bright and your home and family safe, use common sense with candles and

tree placement, and follow these important home decorating guidelines.” • Only use decorations that are flame-retardant or not flammable. • Check holiday lights each year for frayed wires or excessive wear. • Don’t link more than three strands of holiday lights. “In a year when so many of the things we take for granted have changed, we know people will still come together – in person or virtually – to celebrate family and holiday traditions,” says Isaacson. “’Stay safe’ has become a common expression in the context of public health, but this holiday season, we urge all O Fallon-area home and business owners to think about ‘staying safe’ in their homes as they prepare for and enjoy the holiday season.” DECEMBER 2020 | CROSSROADS | 7

Around Town Nonprofit Profile

2020 holiday festivities at the

National Museum of Transportation The National Museum of Transportation (TNMOT) is proud to announce their 2020 holiday festivities will take place from Nov. 27 to Jan. 3, 2021. At the heart of their holiday activities are the festive model train displays that transform the visitor’s center. Over the years, the museum has amassed an extraordinary collection of model train displays shared by donors including local philanthropist E. Desmond Lee and the flagship downtown Famous-Barr store. Museum staff work for weeks to create dozens of model train displays, celebrating the winter holidays and charming visitors of all ages. This year, a new Gscale miniature train display will be set up outdoors. On weekdays, guests can tour the holiday train displays and enjoy the museum’s world-class exhibits. Each weekend, there will be additional special activities tailored for families and children of all ages. Santa’s Village will take over the plaza outside the Lindberg Automotive Building. This year, Santa Claus will be seated in a classic green truck ready for photographs. Live reindeer will visit campus and carolers from area singing groups will serenade visitors. The historic trolley and Emerson Miniature Train will tour guests around campus. Please note: due to the popularity of these festivities, advance registration is required on peak days. Visit www.TNMOT.org to make reservations today. 8 | CROSSROADS | DECEMBER 2020

TNMOT’s annual holiday festivities became a tradition more than ten years ago with the completion of the Orthwein Education and Visitor Center. Each year their holiday celebrations have grown, drawing more than 15,000 visitors in 2019. With multiple outdoor activities, TNMOT expects a high turnout in 2020 as families look for ways to celebrate the holidays while maintaining social distance and safety. About the museum Founded in 1944, TNMOT operates with a mission to be the leader in protecting and interpreting North American transportation heritage. Located in St. Louis County on a 42-acre campus, TNMOT houses one of the largest and best collections of transportation vehicles in the country. The museum’s collection of rail, air, road, and water vehicles includes more than 190 major exhibit pieces, many of them rare or sole survivors of their type. TNMOT also houses a nationally acclaimed research library of transportation-related documents. TNMOT hosts nearly 200,000 visitors each year. The museum is popular with guests of all ages and favorite destination for many St. Louis area families. Approximately 94 percent of visiting parties include a child under the age of 12.

Home holidays for the

COVID-19 has impacted the holiday season in St. Charles County as citizens look to celebrate safely

By Brett Auten

Submitted photo Up until Dec. 7 at the Youth Activity Park at 7801 Town Square Ave. in Dardenne Prairie, children ages eight-and-under are invited to write a letter to Santa. Just bring the letter to the park along with a selfaddressed, stamped envelope to receive a letter back before Christmas. Park hours are from 12–8 p.m., Sunday– Thursday; 12–10 p.m., Friday; 10 a.m.–10 p.m.

et’s face it. COVID-19 is the last thing we want to think about this holiday season. But whether we want to admit it or not, seeking safer ways to celebrate family traditions during fall and winter holidays is the way to go about it. The St. Charles County Department of Public Health teamed with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to issue recommendations focused on staying healthy during the jingles and carols. St. Charles County Department of Public Health Director Demetrius Cianci-Chapman said that contact tracing links a growing number of COVID-19 cases to family gettogethers and community gatherings, “We must take steps to protect those at the highest risk for serious complications when we celebrate,” CianciChapman said. “We urge members of our community to take personal responsibility to help reduce the spread of illness by minimizing close contacts, wearing a mask or face covering when interacting with those outside their immediate household, washing hands and surfaces regularly and staying home if they feel sick or have been exposed.” Among the tips recommended by the St. Charles County Department of Public Health include:

The Basics: Wear a mask or other face coverings when interacting with others outside your immediate household and wash hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water or hand sanitizer and disinfect commonly touched surfaces regularly.

telling the same stories from way back when, it’s time to head out. Whittle down the duration of the gatherings and arrange spacing between seating to lessen the risk for exposure.

Room to Breathe: Host or attend outdoor activities. For indoor events, open windows or any other steps to improve ventilation and serve plated meals, instead of buffets, to reduce the handling of potentially contaminated utensils and dishware. “As the virus that causes COVID-19 is spread when an infected individual breathes, talks, coughs, sneezes or sings, celebrating holiday favorite activities outdoors or opening a window or using a fan if indoors can help disrupt transmission,” Doug Bolnick, Public Information Officer with the St. Charles County Department of Public Health, said. “Staying at least two arms’ lengths apart and wearing a mask will further minimize your risk for exposure.” The safest activities involve reducing exposure with others. And that is where the St. Charles County Parks and Recreation Department steps in. Nancy Gomer, the Marketing Coordinator for the St. Charles County Parks and Recreation Department said they had to make some major adjustments to its holiday events this year. “For everyone’s safety, we’ve implemented safety guidelines, including requiring masks and social distancing inside all St. Charles County Park buildings,” Gomer said. “We’ve also limited attendance and had to cancel our most popular event, Christmas Candlelight Walks. As an alternative,

Short and Sweet: When Uncle you-know-who starts CONTINUED PAGE 10 DECEMBER 2020 | CROSSROADS | 9

Submitted photo The Holiday Toy Train display will be open through Sunday, Jan. 10 at the St. Charles County Heritage Museum at 1630 Heritage Landing in St. Peters. Admission is free. This year’s display features multiple trains with scenes that highlight landmark park buildings, including the historic Boone Village, Hays Home, Heritage Museum, and the 1860s homestead at Towne Park.

the Parks Department added virtual programming to our Holiday Happenings lineup. Guests can now discover Christmas traditions of the past with St. Charles County Parks from the comfort of their own homes.” Gomer said that these heartwarming videos can be viewed on the Parks Facebook page every Friday in December and on Christmas Day, and are guaranteed to lift your holiday spirits. These stories step back in time at The Historic Daniel Boone Home with the award-winning interpretive staff and volunteers.

HERE IS THE VIRTUAL PROGRAMMING LINEUP: Dec. 4: Christmas adventures with Daniel and Rebecca Boone,

featuring Robert and Shirley Pecoraro, St. Charles County Parks Outstanding Volunteers and National Association for Interpretation (NAI) Outstanding Volunteer Award winners.

Dec. 11: An excerpt from Dickens’ A Christmas Carol show-

casing Anne Williams, St. Charles County Parks Outstanding Volunteer.

Dec. 18: How the slaves celebrated Christmas with Angela

daSilva, St. Charles County Parks Staff and renowned storyteller.

Dec. 24: Yuletide tunes of “Old Christmas” with William Ray,

St. Charles County Parks Lead Interpreter and NAI Region 6 Master/Distinguished Professional Interpreter Award winner.

Dec. 25: “Ghost of Christmas Present” from Dickens’ A Christmas Carol featuring Anne Williams.

10 | CROSSROADS | DECEMBER 2020

As for some in the flesh entertainment, before it’s too late, make sure the youngsters get their Letters to Santa. Up until Dec. 7 at the Youth Activity Park at 7801 Town Square Ave. in Dardenne Prairie, children ages eight-and-under are invited to write a letter to Santa. Just bring the letter to the park along with a self-addressed, stamped envelope to receive a letter back before Christmas. Park hours are from 12–8 p.m., Sunday–Thursday; 12–10 p.m., Friday; 10 a.m.–10 p.m., The Holiday Toy Train display will be open through Jan. 10 at the St. Charles County Heritage Museum at 1630 Heritage Landing in St. Peters. This popular display is free and open during the months of December and January. This year’s display features multiple

trains with scenes that highlight landmark park buildings, including the historic Boone Village, Hays Home, Heritage Museum, and the 1860s homestead at Towne Park. It also features a North Pole scene with Mrs. Claus’ bake shop, Santa’s Cabin, and the Elf Toy Factory. Additionally, the museum will serve as a donation site for the Toys for Tots, a program created by the United States Marine Corps Reserve. To spread some holiday cheer to children in need, please bring new, unwrapped toys to the museum through Dec. 9. The museum is open 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Wednesday–Saturday; and 12– 5 p.m., Sunday; and closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Guests must pass a temperature screening before entering and masks and social distancing are required. Call the museum at 636-255-6000 for more information. A Christmas Tree Workshop will be held Saturday, from 3:30 pm to 5 on Dec. 5 at the St. Charles County Heritage Museum at 1630 Her-

itage Landing in St. Peters. You can spruce up your knowledge about evergreens the first weekend of December with Park Ranger Jake Dean and horticulture staff at this free outdoor workshop. Guests will learn about different evergreen species native to Missouri, the history of the Christmas Tree and how to identify different conifers while enjoying hot beverages around a socially-distanced campfire outside the museum. A drawing for one free Christmas Tree courtesy of Sullivan Farms will be held after the presentation. Registration for the workshop is not required, but guests must be present to win the tree. For questions, please call the museum at 636-255-6000. For more information and to register for St. Charles County Parks’ very merry events, visit us at stccparks.org and click on “Activity Registration,” or call the St. Charles County Parks and Recreation Department at 636-949-7535.

Submitted photo The St. Charles County Heritage Museum, at1630 Heritage Landing in St. Peters, will serve as a donation site for the Toys for Tots, a program created by the United States Marine Corps Reserve. To spread some holiday cheer to children in need, please bring new, unwrapped toys to the museum through Dec. 9.

DECEMBER 2020 | CROSSROADS | 11

BUILDING DAMS BY AVALANCHE THE BRIEF TIME WHEN LATE FALL TRANSITIONS TO EARLY WINTER IS A SHORT-LIVED PERIOD OF QUIET AROUND HERE. The summer hordes of tourists, this year augmented by COVID refugees, have returned home. The trees have shed their once-colorful leaves, and snow lies in shady patches under trees and behind rocks; the thick snowy carpet blanketing the ground is still a few weeks off. The days are short, cold and damp. Humans tend to our gardens and yards, pulling up harvested plants, blowing out irrigation systems, and putting away summer tools and lawn mowers. The forest is a bit quieter as well. Hunting season is under way, with seemingly fewer visitors than normal this year. The local campgrounds are closed, but still navigable on foot, which make them a great place to walk the dogs before the snow is too deep. On a recent outing, our mutts were quite animated, with their noses twitching and leading them around the closed campsites, clearly on a mission to find the source of an unusual smell. While we couldn’t smell what they were searching for, the telltale signs of gnawedthrough trees and piles of shavings around their remaining trunks told the story. The mystery scent tormenting the dogs, and the signs of a systemic logging operation came from beavers, and busy ones at that. A number of trees had been recently chopped down and drug out into the river, where they had been moved into the current and floated downstream. None of the numerous trees were to be found near where they had been pulled and pushed into the water, but rather about 100 yards downstream, where a new pond had formed. Staci kept the dogs occupied while I went down to the new pond to investigate. There wasn’t just one pond, but a series of three cascading ponds had been created, each held back by a dam constructed of mud, logs, brush and rocks. The uppermost pond was the largest, the two lower ponds were a bit smaller, and a fourth appeared to be possibly under construction below the first three, as there was another small row of brush building up on some rocks in the stream. A den consisting of a large pile of brush and mud had been built on the river bank adjacent to the main pond; a bit unusual since beavers prefer to have their den out in the middle of water, as it keeps them safe from predators. I didn’t see any beavers working, but they’re typically nocturnal creatures. They’re quite industrious, as this riparian construction site had only been in operation for about a month. None of these trees 12 | CROSSROADS | DECEMBER 2020

Photos by Avalanche

Always An Adventure

had been cut down just a few weeks previously when the campground was open, and the stream had been free-flowing. A beaver can chew through a half-inch sapling with one bite, and can fell a 6” aspen tree in about 20 minutes. They seem to prefer aspens and willows for their projects, as there were numerous evergreen trees lining the banks where the dams were, but none had been cut. The aspens had come from much further upstream. An American native, Castor Canadensis had a population of about 100 million back in the early 1700s, was nearly wiped out by the fur trade in the first half of the 1800s, and has since rebounded to about 15 million nationwide. Not everyone is happy to see them, especially those who have property along a river and find many of their trees and landscaping disappear overnight to the large rodent’s construction projects. In addition to altering the landscape along creeks and rivers, the dams and resulting ponds provide habitat for waterfowl and other semi-aquatic mammals. The ponds also provide good habitat for fish. So, for the next couple of weeks before freeze-up, I know where to take my rod and reel; the ponds will be a great spot to fish. Once the spring runoff arrives, the dams will probably be washed out, making this fishing hole a short-lived seasonal treat for just a few of lucky local anglers. Humans are one more species that get to benefit from the busy beavers’ work ethic.

Moore On Life

t s i l Wish Y MO O BY CIND

of e. Think in p d n a e d es OV E R . kin pie P: pump randma’s favorit 0 TO BE 2 le 0 ip 2 r R T item is into g S IS FO RISTM A ar’s hot holiday ashing head-on H a C R O sm is ye e e d o on NT F d p s Th n A . a d s W e e le I v in d r L AL sequ mas ed can lind cu ell. Pass. ecked out in his ait! Ugly Christ he scent n rounding a b m s e h t w Forget t is d gly ee neither showing Santa g lights… tend it as an u g evergr … y in in t k t d n e e r li e p b p as ful ot in ater no t in color result is na did n knit swe sert. The ss on the bulky lphins wreathed hough Aunt Fio time a o en t h a hard re v c e u , s e e n I’ll also p rrounded by d v o a t rers h mixtu d su keep tha now it. anufactu hristmas. It’s a m k surfboar e totally in. I’ll e n e Th . v C minty tions ar pical idn’t e ell like a m s sweaters e’s so hip and d erfumed body lo ent is called, Tro ll I’ . g into Sh ep erim f yule lo hat and toss it p o x t e n ’s e sweater. I will pass on th r c a s is ye ering no to t r, scents. Th nd an overpow g to say Howeve w in e o n g h m it a up w y cane ashes. I’ coming go, cand ed in fireplace n a up, m , a roll , “Wake n . ly e it t e n e b of banan v le ’s lo t io g me v lad tha na will roaning jungle sa g pile. Aunt Fio ne shakin moaning and g o e m o s iftin were g with the re-g t I wish: ristmas mornin nightmare. You a h w ’s e cra z y on Ch So her wake up g some kind of o fires t awake. t n a Iw king me arthquakes then ll, havin a e h s ’r u is o a Y ! no t a ere e t Fion wake up ing. Aun reamed there w t me. And that’s cked p g.” s a in g k d ie r n a d h and s am. I We sto flying -eyed a t us virus. hornets rrific dre o bleary I come t aid. “I had a ho ust and demon ind – a murdero here were stree t s c k I n t lo e s ” e d then “Woah, ths. Th obs wer the wor for mon rywhere. The m torms an ent a plague of s e r id le s il k in ev e and stay tity s calamity e evil en e had to n then som lies because w e was chaos and . Come o m a e r p r d e p h u d t s a , tup on burning f TP.” as all a b of Eggnog scen e w r e it w t u s B ie dde d riots, cit er the last rolls o le,” said Fiona. “ smelling bottle cake. I a y it v t ib u r o e r r f e g e y t w in s lt ecia fight olida that’s ou a a little h of my sp . I got y or thing “You po ok at your gifts here, try some les this year for nd eed ’s lo p.” now let m deodorant. A in some pine n p my na r d u a e r s h e s is d o t n n fi u d ed er an d just auliflow ances an h c y m spiced c e g to tak .” I’m goin surprise k in h t I ow, “You kn DECEMBER 2020 | CROSSROADS | 13

Automobile Alley

The 2020

FORD MUSTANG A powers up a classic

ositioned as one of the world’s bestselling sport coupes, Ford Motor Company is advancing the momentum of their Michigan-built, four-passenger, rear-wheeldrive Mustang with more options. This includes; added personalization, user friendly smart new technology and an exciting new color palette to select from for 2020. This is coupled with numerous engine and performance levels to choose from as well. From the entry level Mustang EcoBoost that gets an all new performance package to the ultimate spirited Shelby GT500 with the Carbon Fiber Track Package, Ford is offering enthusiasts nine separate performance variants of its iconic fastback and convertible. And let’s face it, many of us likely owned a Mustang or certainly knew friends or family that drove one as their daily means of transportation. The performance, high-revving 2.3-liter turbo four engine is derived from the legendary Focus RS. It cranks out 330 horsepower and 350 lb.-ft. of torque. This is the most powerful four-cylinder sports car by any American automaker, including its closest competitors, the Chevy Camaro and the Dodge Challenger. This turbo setup package gains functional aero ground effects, suspension upgrades and heavy- duty brake components from the Mustang GT. 14 | CROSSROADS | DECEMBER 2020

merican car brand

Factory engineers also included unique performance tuning that impacts throttle control, chassis enhancements and elevated transmission shift tactics. An available high performance handling package adds electro/ mechanical dampers, muscular 265/40R Pirelli P summer tires mounted on wide 19x9.5inch rims, stiffer sway bars and a “track ready” limited slip rear end differential housing. Additionally, the all-new 2020 Shelby GT500 is at the top of the performance spectrum. It too was developed for both street usage as well as in a competitive setting. With an impressive 760-horsepower supercharged 5.2-liter V8 engine, acceleration is close to being on par with a NASA rocket launch. This setup is matched with a seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmission. Additionally, to slow things down a bit, it gets massive 16.5inch two-piece brake rotors with six-piston Brembo front brake calipers. Add the Carbon Fiber Track Package with carbon fiber wheels, GT4 track aero wing and custom Ford Performance spec Michelin Pilot Sport tires for the ultimate on track performance. The Shelby GT500 takes the crown as the most powerful street legal Ford ever. The updated colors for ‘20 add to the car’s interest which further enhances Mustang’s rich curb appeal. But getting down to basics, I test drove this coupe with the 2.3-liter

BY DAVID FINKELSTEIN

Eco-Boost four cylinder engine and six-speed manual transmission. EPA numbers reflected 21-MPG city/30-MPG highway. Be advised that this set-up is recommended to operate with premium/high octane fuel. Some turbo engines have a bit of a turbo lag with launch; however, that wasn’t the case here. The throttle response was instantaneous. On the other hand, I would have welcomed a tighter shift gate with the gear linkage. T his model had dual exhaust, capless fuel fill, LED foglamps, automatic on/off head lights, Mustang Pony projection side mirrors, sequential tail lights, intermittent wipers and Ford advanced safety/security amenities. Pushbutton start is included as well as selectable drive modes, rearview camera, digital instrument cluster, dual-zone climate control, leather trimmed seats, split fold forward rear seats, tilt/telescope steering column and power door locks and windows. Backseat accommodations are somewhat tight and the coupes stiff drive characteristics may prove to be a turn off for some. The base bumperto-bumper warranty is three-years/36,000 miles, the powertrain warranty is for fiveyears, 60,000 miles. Window sticker pricing reflected $35,850 after $3,000 in additional equipment and $1,095 for shipping charges.

Entertainment

New films debuting simultaneously on streaming services and in theaters BY STEVE BRYAN

lthough summer traditionally has more than its fair share of blockbuster movies and family-friendly options, the endof-the-year holidays are equally important on the movie calendar. Last December, for instance, “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker” and “Jumanji: The Next Level” packed theater seats, providing a great return on investment for their respective studios. Thanks to its Christmas Day opening, Greta Gerwig’s “Little Women” crossed the $100 million mark and earned six Academy Award nominations. A year can make one heck of a difference, though, because the entertainment industry currently is shifting gears. Theater chains such as Regal Cinemas shut down the bulk of their locations but kept seven venues in California open. Due to a lack of new films to show moviegoers, Regal finally closed their remaining theaters, including the newly refurbished location in the Irvine Spectrum. Normally, that Regal Cinema would have done a booming business in the weeks to come.

Though vaccine news has been highly promising, I am wondering if this is the end of traditional moviegoing, especially when Hollywood studios have been changing their operating models. The Walt Disney Company has pulled the promising comedy “Free Guy” from its scheduled Dec. 11 release. In that film, Ryan Reynolds plays Guy, a video game character who learns that his game will be shut down forever. As of this writing, Guy’s fate, like that of many theaters, is up in the air. A few months ago, Disney also caused a stir when it released the live-action version of “Mulan” on the Disney+ streaming platform for $30. That was in addition to their monthly $6.95 subscription fee. The studio even made a large investment in a recorded version of the stage play “Hamilton” but released it on Disney+ at no additional charge. “Soul,” the latest Pixar offering, also will show up on the streaming service on Christmas Day. Warner Bros. has one of the most highly an-

ticipated movies of the year in Patty Jenkins’ “Wonder Woman 1984.” The sequel to the popular 2017 adventure shows Diana Prince (Gal Gadot) facing a new villain known as the Cheetah (Kristen Wiig) and discovering that her lost love Steve Trevor is alive, well and still youthful in 1984. This film’s release date was shuffled more than a deck of cards until Warner Bros. decided to release it simultaneously on their HBO Max platform and in theaters on Christmas Day. Back in April, Universal Studios released “Trolls World Tour” as a Premium Video-onDemand title instead of having a theatrical release. At the time, that seemed like a scandalous idea but seven months later, more studios are embracing the idea of digital releases with or without a theatrical release. Will this become the “new normal” for the movie industry? Only time will tell, but the fact that prolific writer Stephen King still loves going to the movies gives me some hope.

DECEMBER 2020 | CROSSROADS | 15

For the Love of Food

festive holiday fun POPPING UP D

uring a holiday season that may not quite feel the same for many families, you can add a magic touch to at-home festivities with activities and treats that get everyone involved. Creating decorative holiday sweets allows little ones and grown-ups alike to take part in the fun, and the end result is delicious desserts for all to enjoy. Start with a main ingredient like whole-grain, freshly popped popcorn. At 30 calories a cup, it’s naturally low in fat, non-GMO and gluten-free for a nutritious alternative to traditional holiday indulgences. It’s a clever way to create artsy representations of the season at hand that celebrate festive flavors like peppermint, coconut, chocolate and other sweet eats. For example, Coconut Popcorn Snowballs add fun and flavor to wintertime with a coat of sweetened coconut “snow” and candy cane handle while easy-to-construct Holiday Popcorn Snowmen are sure to be a hit with your children. Add to the holiday spirit throughout your home with wintery Jingle Balls that call for colored sugars to create a magical sparkling effect then take the creativity to the next level by encouraging kids to make their own red-nosed, sleigh-pulling team of Chocolate Popcorn Reindeer. Discover more decorative dessert recipes at popcorn.org.

Coconut Popcorn Snowballs Yield: 8 balls (4 inches) Ingredients:

Directions:

mix well until coated.

2 cups shredded or flaked sweetened coconut

Place large sheet wax or parchment paper over work surface. Spread coconut on paper.

Spray hands with cooking spray and press mixture firmly to form into balls. Place balls on coconut; roll and press coconut to coat. While holding popcorn balls, gently press candy cane into each ball.

nonstick cooking spray 3 quarts popped popcorn 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter or margarine 3 cups miniature marshmallows 1 teaspoon coconut or vanilla extract 8 candy canes or candy cane sticks (about 3-4 inches)

16 | CROSSROADS | DECEMBER 2020

Spray large mixing bowl lightly with nonstick cooking spray and place popcorn inside. In medium saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Stir in marshmallows until melted and mixture is smooth. Pour over popcorn and

Serve immediately or wrap individually in plastic wrap for storage.

For the Love of Food

Jingle Balls Yield: 12 cups

Chocolate Popcorn Reindeer Servings: 8

Ingredients:

1/4 teaspoon salt

8 cups unsalted, unbuttered, popped popcorn

16 pretzel sticks

2 1/2 cups mini marshmallows

8 red candy-coated

1/2 cup chopped dark chocolate or dark chocolate chips

chocolate candies

16 eyeball candies

Ingredients:

3 cups mini marshmallows

Nonstick cooking spray

1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract

12 cups popped popcorn

assorted colored sugars

2 tablespoons butter or light olive oil

6 tablespoons butter or margarine

Directions:

Place popcorn in large mixing bowl.

Spray large mixing bowl lightly with nonstick cooking spray. Add popcorn.

In saucepan over medium heat, heat marshmallows, chocolate, butter and salt, stirring often, until smooth. Toss marshmallow mixture with popcorn until well combined.

Spread plastic wrap on cookie sheet; set aside.

Scoop 3/4 cup popcorn mixture into ball. Repeat with remaining mixture to make eight balls. Place each ball in paper muffin cup liner.

In medium saucepan, melt butter and marshmallows; stir until mixture is smooth. Stir in peppermint extract. Pour over popcorn, mixing until well coated. Let cool 2 minutes.

Insert one pretzel stick on each side of ball to resemble antlers, attach two eyeball candies for “eyes” and one red chocolate candy for “nose.” Repeat with remaining balls. Let cool completely.

Spray hands with nonstick cooking spray and form popcorn mixture into 3-inch balls. Gently press colored sugar onto balls. Let sit on prepared cookie sheet until cool and set.

Holiday Popcorn Snowmen Yield: 5 snowmen Ingredients:

greasing hands

licorice (optional)

1 package (1 pound) large marshmallows

1 teaspoon vanilla

gum drops (optional)

10 cups popped popcorn

cinnamon candies (optional)

1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter or margarine, plus additional for

sprinkles (optional)

Directions: In large saucepan, melt marshmallows and 1/4 cup butter. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla. Let stand 5 minutes.

Pour marshmallow mixture over popcorn and stir. Butter hands well and form into balls. Decorate with sprinkles, licorice, gum drops and cinnamon candies, if desired.

DECEMBER 2020 | CROSSROADS | 17

Advertiser Profile

Wentzville EDC Business Spotlight Indoor Comfort Specialists

Heating and Air Conditioning

636-887-0971

Elite Heating and Cooling is located at 13 W. Allen St., Suite B in Historic Downtown Wentzville near West Allen Grill, but will be relocating to 108 Hamilton Industrial Ct. to better serve our customers. The business is owned by Tim Schellert and provides heating, cooling, and water heater service to residential. The business also provides gas inspections, restaurant kitchen inspections and Old Hickory Smokers service for its commercial customers. The business likes to give-back to the community through its participation in a variety of charitable causes such as Little Black Book and Habitat for Humanity. As a Lennox dealer they are also involved in the Lennox Feel the Love program which provides a new heating and air conditioning unit to a deserving family free-of-charge. Elite has been in business since 2003. We invite you to give us a call to respond to all of your heating and cooling needs. Phone is: (636) 887-0971

18 | CROSSROADS | DECEMBER 2020

Community Calendar

r e b m e Dec

St. Nicholas Day

Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day

Hanukkah (first day)

National Guard Birthday

Bill of Rights Day

Wright Brothers Day

First Day of Winter

Christmas Eve

Christmas Day

New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve

DECEMBER 2020 | CROSSROADS | 19

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