CrossRoads: July 2012 by Community News

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CROSSROADS JULY 2012

JULY spotlight

2012 contents

The Forecast is Fair! by Shelly A. Schneider

lifestyle

The Art of Conversation

(without a phone)

by Shelly A. Schneider

The Lesser of Two or Three Evils by Joe Morice

entertainment

Factual “For the Love of Money” Coming by Steve Bryan

VOL 8 | NO 7

food

Celebrating Summer Cuisine courtesy of Family Features

photo op Published monthly with direct mail circulation to Wentzville and Lake Saint Louis, plus newsstands in Troy.

photos by Ray Rockwell

around town

5 5

Publisher Editor Photographer Movie Critic Creative Design

Community News Shelly Schneider Ray Rockwell Steve Bryan Donna M. Huneke

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

www.mycnews.com

Wentzville Nominations for Water Quality 7 Fun in the Sun Summer Fun

Community Calendar

Wentzville Chamber News

Home Lawn Watering Needs

LSLDP Chamber News

Winnie the Pooh Box Car Movie Night Transportation Assistance Available

8 For advertising information, please contact us at:

Lake Saint Louis Concert in the Park

Crossroads is a trademark of Huneke Publications, Inc. Any published use of Crossroads implying affiliation is strictly prohibited.

JULY 2012 CROSSROADS

SPOTLIGHT

The Forecast is Fair! BY SHELLY A. SCHNEIDER

Carnival rides, animals, fun food, the demolition derby, live entertainment and more. The St. Charles and Lincoln County Fairs pack an entire vacation into a few days! Pack up the kids and head to the fair this summer. The Lincoln County Fair will be held from July 10-14 in Troy, Mo. Adult (ages 13+) season tickets are $35. Season Photo courtesy Lincoln County Fair tickets for children ages 3-12 are $25. Daily tickets are sold at the gate. The pay-one-price ticket includes admission to the grounds, all entertainment (including concerts, truck/ The St. Charles County Fair will be held from July tractor pull, demolition derby and other entertainment), 24 – July 28 in Wentzville’s beautiful Rotary Park. and carnival rides (but not the games). Food, beverages, New this year is “Remembering Our Fallen.” This carnival games, and commercial vendor items are not inphoto memorial of Missouri’s fallen from the War cluded. Tuesday night, July 10, is Kids’ Night, and children on Terror since September 11, 2001 is a traveling 12 and under are admitted free (adult tickets are just $10). exhibit. It features military and favorite personal Single ticket prices are $10 for adults and $7 for children on photos of Missouri’s fallen, and was unveiled to Wednesday and Thursday, and $20 for adults and $7 for family members last July in Jefferson City. children on Friday and Saturday. Season passes to the St. Charles County Fair are Photo courtesy St. Charles County Fair The Lincoln County Fair features Agri-Land, the Lowery $35 for adults, and $15 for children ages 6 – 12. Carnival Company, Arcadeland, horse shows, a Backyard Children 5 and under are free. Daily admission is Barbecue contest, truck and tractor pull, and of course, a demolition $10 for adults Tuesday – Thursday, $15 on Friday, and $20 on Saturderby! Motorcross and Dock Dogs are always crowd-pleasers. Craig day. Children’s daily admission is $5 each day. Seniors 60 and older are Morgan and Joe Nichols will perform on the Main Stage on Saturday, admitted for just $5 on Wednesday, July 25. All tickets include carnival July 14. The Entertainment Center features great bands throughout rides, entertainment and parking. the week, including Southern Drive, Little Dixie, Silver Wings, Faultline, This year’s entertainment includes Karaoke by CJ Karaoke, Justus, C & C All Around Sound, and Ultimatum. Black Dog and the Rainmakers, Contagious and Project 324. County fairs are known for their delicious cuisine, and the Lincoln Crowd favorites like tractor pulls, the demolition derby, Dock Dogs County Fair is no exception. Breakfast is served from 6 – 10 a.m., and and the Little Mr. and Miss St. Charles County Fair competition return lunch is offered from 12 – 2 p .m. Dinner plates are served daily startfor 2012. Visitors will also enjoy an inflatable rappelling wall, a butterfly ing at 5 p.m., and include roast beef, pork loin, rib eye steak, fish and fun house, a magician, a mule jump, a pig scramble, frog and turtle fried chicken. races, lawnmower derby and much more. Everything you need to know about the Lincoln County Fair may be Schedules and detailed information is posted online at www.stcharlefound at www.lincolncountyfair.net. scofair.org.

CROSSROADS JULY 2012

Winnie the Pooh Box Car Movie Night What could be more fun than a free night of watching everyone’s favorite bear in Disney’s full-length animated film Winnie the Pooh? How about watching it while sitting in your very own “box car?” On Friday, August 3, Wentzville will host a Winnie-the-Pooh themed Box-Car Movie Night. Youngsters are encouraged to create their own “box car” from cardboard boxes, using the Winnie-the-Pooh theme. Then they can bring their cars with them to Rotary Park on August 3 and watch everyone’s favorite cuddly ol’ bear on the big screen while sitting in their own box car—it’s a little-tykes version of the old drive-in movies. There will even be a Honey Award given that night for the best themed box car. Although the little ones will want to watch the movie from the comfort of their own box cars, moms, dads and older siblings will want to bring lawn chairs or blankets to sit on. Concessions will be available for purchase, including hot dogs, nachos, popcorn, candy and our famous Frito pies! The movie starts at 8 p.m., but be sure to come early so you can find a good place to sit, park your box cars, and purchase your snacks before the movie begins. It promises to be a fun night the little ones in your family will remember for a long time.

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Transportation Assistance Available A new transportation assistance program funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is available to qualifying residents of unincorporated St. Charles County, Cottleville, Dardenne Prairie, Lake Saint Louis, St. Paul, St. Peters, Weldon Spring and Wentzville. The program provides a limited number of vouchers to eligible residents for necessary medical, shopping and other essential services. To be eligible, you must: • Reside within the participating jurisdictions. • Lack access to a vehicle or be unable to drive. • Be at least 62 years of age, or be severely disabled, or have low-moderate income as established by U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development guidelines. Transportation services will be available Monday-Saturday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Medical trips to destinations outside of the county are limited to 15 miles from home or within St. Charles County and other trips are limited to destinations within St. Charles County. Transportation Services are expected to start in July and eligible residents may apply for the program by submitting an application now. Applications can be obtained from the St. Charles County Government Internet site at: http://cd.sccmo.org/communitydevelopment/ or at the offices of the various participating communities or by contacting Amy Heckart, 636.477.6600,ext. 1204.

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www.rhf.org JULY 2012 CROSSROADS

LIFESTYLE

The Art of Conversation (without a phone)

It was Friday, June 1, 2012. I was in the process of making my bed, still finding it hard to believe I actually needed my comforter the night before, when I heard someone on the television ask, “Do you allow your children to play games on their phones or tablets when the family is out to dinner? Some restaurants these days even have games for the kids.” It was then a cold shiver ran through my body – a shiver that the world’s greatest comforter could not eradicate. (Sorry, I know I could have used a much simpler word than “eradicate,” but every once in a while I like to throw something in to see if Jim reads the paper. He’ll say something like, “Oooh, eradicate. Good one, honey.”) I think the world needs to be propelled backward in time to the earlyto-mid 1900s. You know, a time when adults actually cared how their children turned out, and a time when good manners were something to emulate, not ridicule. (This column is filled with awesome words, isn’t it? Jim’s head might explode!) I’m proud to say that, while our children (ages 17, 18 and 19) all have cell phones, those phones are not allowed at the dinner table. It doesn’t matter if that table is in our kitchen, at a fast food restaurant, or at a sitdown type of establishment with real plates and silverware. I will admit, right here and now, that if my phone rings while I’m with someone else, I will check it (our daughter, Sam, has been to the emergency room too many times for me not to check it), but 9 times out of 10, I press “reject.” There needs to be a better word for that, don’t you think? Something like, “I can’t answer the phone right now but I’ll call you back soon” button. Sorry…my ADD kicked in. Oh, we’ve been tempted, believe you me. And I admit to carrying a dice game called “Left, Right, Center” in my purse at all times. We play that if it’s going to be a long wait for a table, or while waiting for our food. At least it’s a game we ALL play together. I understand the temptation. It’s why we purchased a portable entertainment system many years ago when we took a 15-day trip out west. I was admonished for that by one of our readers, but hey, at least she

BY SHELLY A. SCHNEIDER

was reading the paper. I get that sometimes you want to have a civilized conversation with your spouse, friend, brother, etc. in a restaurant. But what are we really doing when we shove your smart phone or tablet (or Gameboy) into our kids’ hands? Personally, I believe we are teaching our children that instant gratification is the best thing since sliced bread. I believe we are showing ourselves and the world that we prefer to take the easy way out. Why teach our children the virtue of patience, and the art of meaningful conversation? No, let’s just watch them demolish our high score on “Angry Birds!” I really fear for future generations. Why? Because I’ve witnessed adults in their 20s, 30s and 40s who cannot sit down for a meal without checking their phones. I attended a two-hour breakfast in May, and watched two 20 or 30-something adults bow their heads at least 50 percent of the time. Praying? To the smart phone, maybe. They couldn’t put the phone away long enough to pay attention to the program and the people around them. Oh sure, they had one ear to their surroundings and clapped at the appropriate times, but what I wouldn’t have given to have the emcee call them out by name and ask if the content on their phones was really more important than people receiving recognition at the breakfast. It’s just rude. Plain and simple. No fancy word here (sorry, Jim). You know, I started this column the instant I returned from that breakfast. I’ve learned, however, that slowing down and taking a few deep breaths is never a bad idea. I actually researched cell phone etiquette. There are plenty of blogs and articles out there with advice on that particular topic, but it really all boils down to one thing. Humble yourself long enough to consider how your behavior might affect others around you. If you still think checking your email or Googling the lyrics to a song that’s playing in the background is more important than the person or people you’re with, then I advise you to make sure you keep up with technology. Not necessarily phone or tablet technology, but the latest in lasik eye surgery. One of these days, my friend, that phone or tablet will be your only companion, and I want you to be able to enjoy it without having to put it down to search for your glasses.

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CROSSROADS JULY 2012

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Wentzville Seeking Nominations for 2012 Water Quality Champions The city of Wentzville’s Stormwater Committee is asking the public to submit nominations for the city’s three 2012 Water Quality Champion Awards. Nominees should be individuals, businesses, developments or organizations that have helped improve water quality, prevented water pollution, or worked to control stormwater runoff in our community. The awards, which will be presented this October in honor of the 2012 Make a Difference Day, will be for Outstanding Development, Outstanding Business or Institution, and for Outstanding Individual. Both second-party and self nominations will be accepted, and applicants may submit more than one project for the same or different categories. Nomination forms and criteria for the awards are available from Wentzville’s website at www.wentzvillemo.org/stormwater.aspx. Forms are also available upon request at Wentzville City Hall, lo-

cated at 310 W. Pearce Blvd., the Utility Service Center, located at 5 W. Pearce Blvd., and the Public Works building, located at 200 E. Fourth St. To be considered for the 2012 Awards, completed nomination forms and their accompanying one-page project abstracts must be received by the city no later than September 14, 2012. Submissions can be faxed to 636.639.2057, or mailed to: Wentzville Public Works Attn: Water Quality Champion 200 E. Forth Street Wentzville, MO 63385 Anyone who has questions about the awards or the nomination process is invited to call Wentzville’s Public Works Department at 636.332.5102.

Fun in The Sun Information from the Centers for Disease Control When you’re having fun outdoors, it’s easy to forget how important it is to protect yourself from the sun. Unprotected skin can be damaged by the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays in as little as 15 minutes. Yet it can take up to 12 hours for skin to show the full effect of sun exposure. Even if it’s cool and cloudy, you still need protection. UV rays, not the temperature, do the damage. Clouds do not block UV rays; they filter them—and sometimes only slightly. Remember to plan ahead, and keep sun protection handy in your car, bag, or child’s backpack. Tan? There’s no other way to say it—tanned skin is damaged skin. Any change in the color of your skin after time outside—whether sunburn or suntan—indicates damage from UV rays. Using a tanning bed causes damage to your skin, just like the sun. Types of Skin Cancer Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. The two most common types, called basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas, are highly curable. But melanoma, the third most common skin cancer, is more dangerous. Risk Factors Anyone can get skin cancer, but some things put you at higher risk, like having— • A lighter natural skin color. • A personal history of skin cancer. • A family history of melanoma. • Exposure to the sun through work and play. • A history of sunburns early in life. • Skin that burns, freckles, reddens easily, or becomes painful in the sun. • Blue or green eyes.

• Naturally blond or red hair. How to Protect Yourself Take precautions against sun exposure every day of the year, especially during midday hours (10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.), when UV rays are strongest and do the most damage. UV rays can reach you on cloudy days, and can reflect off of surfaces like water, cement, sand, and snow. • Seek shade, especially during midday hours. • Cover up with clothing to protect exposed skin. • Wear a hat with a wide brim to shade the face, head, ears, and neck. • Wear sunglasses that wrap around and block as close to 100% of both UVA and UVB rays as possible. • Put on sunscreen with broad spectrum (UVA and UVB) protection and sun protective factor (SPF) 15 or higher. • Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps. The UV rays from them are as dangerous as the UV rays from the sun.

www.PayneFamilyHomes.com JULY 2012 CROSSROADS

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Summer Fun

Swimming is the most popular recreational activity for children. Keep them safe this summer with tips from the Centers for Disease Control.

Summer at its best involves swimming and other water-related activities. Each year, millions of people enjoy recreational water activities such as swimming in pools, lakes, and oceans, as well as relaxing in hot tubs. The benefits of water-based exercise are numerous, but to enjoy a safe swimming experience, learn how to protect yourself and others from potential dangers. Drowning is the leading cause of injury death among children 1–4 years old. Every day, 10 people die from drowning; two of those ten are children under the age of 15 years. Of drowning victims who survive and are treated in emergency departments, more than half are hospitalized or transferred for further care. These individuals often experience brain damage that might result in long-term disabilities, including memory problems, learning disabilities, or permanent loss of basic functioning (for example, permanent vegetative state). To prevent drowning: • Everyone (adults and children) should know how to swim, • Caregivers should know CPR, • All boaters and weaker swimmers should use lifejackets, and • Backyard swimming pools should be separated from the house and yard by a fence with a self-closing and self-latching gate. If you’ve never learned to swim, now’s the time to learn. And it’s always a good time to learn CPR—CardioPulmonary Resuscitation— especially if you’ll be supervising others. Always supervise young children around water. (Tip: stay close enough to reach a child at all times and avoid distractions such as playing cards, reading a book, or talking on the phone.) Drownings happen quickly, and usually silently. Avoid alcohol while supervising children and before or during swimming, boating, or waterskiing. Prevent water-related injuries and drowning by swimming with a buddy and swimming where there’s a lifeguard. And always use life jackets and secure personal flotation devices—do not substitute airfilled or foam toys for safety gear. When enjoying natural bodies of water, be aware of the local weather conditions and forecast. Strong winds and thunderstorms with lightning can be dangerous. Also watch for dangerous waves and

signs of rip tides/currents. Also know and obey the posted warnings. For example, beaches often have different colored flags (red, yellow, green) to indicate beach conditions. Pay attention to lifeguards or posted instructions. RWI Prevention You share the water you swim in with everyone who enters the pool. Contrary to popular belief, chlorine does not kill germs instantly. Once germs get in the pool, it can take anywhere from minutes to days for chlorine to kill them. Swallowing just a little water that contains these germs can make you sick with a recreational water illness (RWI). RWIs include a wide variety of infections, such as gastrointestinal, skin, ear, respiratory, eye, neurologic, and wound infections. The most commonly reported RWI is diarrhea caused by germs such as Crypto (short for Cryptosporidium), Giardia, Shigella, norovirus and E. coli O157:H7. With the number of RWI outbreaks on the rise, swimmers need to take an active role in helping to protect themselves and prevent the spread of germs. The simple steps below can help you protect yourself and other swimmers from germs in the water you swim in. Three Steps for All Swimmers 1. Don’t swim when you have diarrhea. 2. Don’t swallow the pool water. Avoid getting the water in your mouth. 3. Practice good hygiene. Shower with soap before swimming and wash your hands after using the toilet or changing diapers. Germs on your body end up in the water. Three Steps for Parents of Young Kids 1. Wash your child thoroughly (especially the rear end) with soap and water before swimming. Even invisible amounts of fecal matter can end up in the pool. 2. Check diapers every 30–60 minutes. Change diapers in a bathroom or a diaper-changing area and not at poolside. Germs can spread in and around the pool. 3. Take your kids on bathroom breaks every 60 minutes. Waiting to hear “I have to go” may mean that it’s too late.

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8 CROSSROADS JULY 2012

ENTERTAINMENT

Factual “For the Love of Money” Coming to Theaters, DVD This Summer BY STEVE BRYAN

Once shiny, the American Dream now is showing signs of wear and tear. Baby boomers can remember a time in the 1970s and 80s, though, when the chasing that particular dream seemed easier to reach. All one needed was determination and a heck of a work ethic to make their way in business. “For the Love of Money,” a new film from Ellie Kanner-Zuckerman and Jenna Mattison, looks back at those days through the eyes of Izek Shomof (Yuda Levi), a real-life entrepreneur who hails from Israel. Unlike action films where the hero becomes corrupted by those around him, Shomof remains true to his heritage and beliefs. The title is a direct reference to 1 Timothy 6:10, the Biblical verse that often is misquoted as simply “Money is the Root of All Evil.” In the case of Los Angeles in the 1980s, it truly was the love of money that became the root of all evil in this story. The story follows Shomof’s life in Tel Aviv, working at his parent’s bar and backroom casino. When the family runs afoul of local gangsters, Izek and his brothers head to Los Angeles to start a new life. Young Izek is quite adept at operating restaurants, turning abandoned buildings into going concerns like the D-Town Burger Bar in downtown Los Angeles. Izek tries to stay on the straight-and-narrow, making money through hard work and honest labors. Despite his efforts, his business interests come in contact with a local gangster named Mickey. His cousin Levi (Oded Fehr) can’t leave his underworld connections behind him, opting to make his money through drug trafficking. Not the typical gangster story, “For the Love of Money” focuses on a man who is strong enough to do the right thing for his family. The real-life Izek Shomof remains active in the Los Angeles business community, recently starting a renovation project on Skid Row. The film has other familiar faces in addition to veteran actor James Caan. Edward Furlong of “Terminator 2: Judgment Day” fame has a small, but essential, role as Tommy, a small-time Israeli thug who provides the catalyst for Izek to leave Tel Aviv. Nearly unrecognizable behind a scruffy beard and scowl, Furlong brings to mind Joe Pesci’s memorable performance in “Casino.” A grown-up Jonathan Lipnicki, that cute kid from “Jerry Maguire,” also has a nice role as Yoni, Izek’s cousin and best friend. It’s good to see Lipnicki in a film like this, playing one of the good guys.

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“For the Love of Money” looks at subjects that haven’t been fully fleshed out before. The story also provides a stark contrast between the race for the American Dream then and now. The lessons learned back then are even truer in today’s volatile economy. “For the Love of Money” will be available on DVD and VOD later this summer.

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JULY 2012

CrossRoads Magazine

COMMUNITY CALENDAR July 4

Wentzville Parade The parade begins at 10 a.m., traveling west down Pearce Blvd. to Wentzville Holt High School. After the parade enjoy free swimming at Progress Park from noon – 8 p.m. There will also be free inflatables, clowns, and balloon sculpting, live music, the Smash Band, and a fireworks display. For more information, please call the Wentzville Parks and Recreation Department at 636.332.9236.

dren to get outdoors and reconnected to nature this summer. Discover the outdoors and attend the Parks Explorer Kids Club Program. . This week-long nature camp allows children ages 6-12 to really explore the outdoors through inspiring nature-themed games, crafts, activities, and surprise guests. The “park explorers” meet daily, from 8:30 – 11:30 a.m., at Quail Ridge Park, 5501 Quail Ridge Parkway near Wentzville. The fee is $40 per camper. Register at www. stccparks.org or call 636.949.7535.

July 13

July 18

Movies In The Park Grab your lawn chairs and blankets and head out to Boulevard Park Amphitheater to enjoy a free movie under the stars. Movies begin at dusk (approximately 8 p.m.) This month it’s Happy Feet 2 (rated PG). For more information, please call the Lake Saint Louis Parks and Recreation Department at 636.561.4620.

July 14 and 28

Concert Series Come and enjoy these free Saturday concerts during July at Boulevard Park in Lake Saint Louis. • July 14, 7 – 10 p.m. Lenny Frisch (tropical rock) • July 28, 7 – 10 p.m. Rough Ryders (country) For more information, please call the Lake Saint Louis Parks and Recreation Department at 636.561.4620.

July 16-20

Park Explorer Kids Club The St. Charles County Parks Department offers a fun and exciting day camp for chil10

CROSSROADS JULY 2012

Helping Hands The Wentzville Parks and Recreation Department offers a free volunteer program for kids ages 10-15. The once-a-month program is held from 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. on the third Wednesday of each month. Pre registration is required. Registration deadline is one week prior to each program or when full, unless otherwise noted. To register, call 636.332.9236.

July 21

Late Skate at the Y.A.P. Open from 4 p.m. to midnight. The Youth Activity Park, 7801 Hwy. N in Dardenne Prairie is open for all ages. The cost is $5 per person, and participants must be registered members of the park. For more information, call the Y.A.P. at 636.561.4964.

July 21

Bicycle Rodeo This program, for ages 4 - 15 years old, will educate parents and children about the safety aspects of riding a bicycle on the streets and roads. This program will include

To see your organization’s event listed here, please contact us. E-mail: cnews@centurytel.net Fax: 636.379.1632 Mail: 2139 Bryan Valley Commercial Dr. O’Fallon, MO 63366

bicycle safety inspections, tune-ups, helmet fittings, and information about the “rules of the road.” There will also be a chalked street course including “safety town” to show the children when, and how to use the rules. The program will be held from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. at the upper pavilion of Rotary Park. To register, call 636.332.9236.

July 23

Adult Art & Painting Lake Saint Louis offers four separate classes taught by award-winning artist Marie Donato. Choose from Adult Drawing, Pastel Painting, Watercolor or Open Studio. Classes meet for six weeks on Tuesdays or Thursdays. For more information please visit www.lakesaintlouis.com. The fee is $65 per LSL resident and $82 per nonresident. For more information, please call the Lake Saint Louis Parks and Recreation Department at 636.561.4620.

July 23 - 26

Lake Saint Louis COED Soccer Camp Designed for kids in grades 7 through 12, this camp will be held from 9 – 11 a.m. at Founders Park. The fee is $55 preregistration or $60 “day of” per session. Area high school coaches will lead this camp. For more information, please call the Lake Saint Louis Parks and Recreation Department at 636.561.4620.

August 9

Wentzville Water Cardboard Boat Race Wentzville Parks & Recreation is hosting its first cardboard boat race! The event will be held from 7:30 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 9 p.m. at Progress Park Pool. The fee is $10 per family. Build your boat from only corrugated cardboard and duct tape. Decorate your boat and hope it survives the race. Two people must occupy the boat during the race. Boats must be human-powered (no motors). Dispose of your boat after the event (dumpster close

by). Lifejackets are available for use and must be worn while racing. Fun awards will be given in a variety of categories. For more information, please call the Wentzville Parks and Recreation Department at 636.332.9236.

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JULY 2012 CROSSROADS 11

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WENTZVILLE - Chamber News

BY TONY MATHEWS

Wentzville Chamber’s New Location The Wentzville Chamber is proud to announce its new office in downtown Wentzville. The new chamber office is located at 210 South Linn Avenue, Wentzville, MO 63385. “The chamber is proud to be in historic downtown Wentzville,” said Tony Mathews, president/ CEO. “If you need information about our great chamber members please stop by and visit our staff. I would like to thank all the chambers who helped or donated to the office.” A ribbon cutting and open house will be scheduled for July. If you have any questions please call the Wentzville Chamber of Commerce at 636.327.6914 or visit us at www.wentzvillechamber.com.

Chamber Hosts Ribbon Cutting & Groundbreaking Ceremonies The Wentzville Chamber of Commerce hosted ribbon cutting and ground breaking ceremonies for Applebee’s, General Motors, Grassmuck Realty, Chill Yogurt Café, and Lake St. Louis Chiropractic. The Wentzville Applebee’s dedicated two parking spots at their restaurant on 1987 Wentzville Parkway, Wentzville, MO 63385 to veterans. They also donate more than 700 free meals to veterans on Veterans Day! General Motors broke ground on the 500,000 square foot expansion. The Wentzville community is excited in General Motors’ investment in the area. Sandy Grassmuck and her team at Grassmuck Realty are in their new offices in Lake St Louis. You can contact them at 100 Centre on the Lake, Lake St Louis, MO 63367. 636.634.2828 or at www. grassmuckrealty.com.

General Motors

Lake St. Louis Chiropractic

CROSSROADS JULY 2012

Chill Yogurt Cafe held a grand opening in Wentzville. Visit them at 1894 Wentzville Parkway, Wentzville, MO 63385. Great yogurt, 90 toppings, and great fun! Lake St. Louis Chiropractic celebrated its grand opening in O’Fallon. Visit Dr. Kristin Gaines-Porlier for all your chiropractic needs. The office is located at 2161 West Terra Lane, O’Fallon, MO 63366. 636.887.9003. To see videos and find out more information about these ribbon cuttings please visit www.wentzvillechamber.com and click on the Wentzville Chamber of Commerce’s Facebook page. Representatives of each business, the Wentzville Chamber of Commerce helped cut the ceremonial ribbons. For more information please contact the Wentzville Chamber of Commerce at 636.327.6914 or visit us online at www.wentzvillechamber.com.

Photos courtesy Wentzville Chamber of Commerce

Sandy Grassmuck Realty

Chill Yogurt Cafe

Photo Op PHOTOS BY RAY ROCKWELL

Concert in the Park

Photographer Ray Rockwell was on hand for the the St. Charles County Symphony Orchestra concert at Lake St. Louis Boulevard Park.

JULY 2012 CROSSROADS

LIFESTYLES

The Lesser of Two or Three Evils BY JOE MORICE

A friend asked me who I’m voting for in ‘012. I told him I was writing in Bugs Bunny. He smiled and said, “No really, tell me the truth.” I said, “I am telling the truth. I haven’t liked most presidential candidates since Truman and end up voting for the lesser of two or three evils.” He said accusingly, “You were too young to

vote for Truman.” “Thank you,” I said. He decided to go along with the gag. He asked, “Why Bugs Bunny?“ “He always wins.” “Oh,“ he said. “So who you do you like for vice president?” “Daffy Duck, I replied. “Most vice presidents and Daffy seem to have a lot in common.” “Oh…right,” he mused. How about Secretary of Defense? You gonna recommend the Tasmanian Devil?” I shook my head. “No way. We already had Donald Rumsfeld. Maybe Elmer Fudd, but he has to promise not to shoot Bugs and make rabbit stew. Besides, he likes shotguns and that should make the Pentagon and the NRA happy. Bugs can’t lose.” “I see,” he said. “What about Secretary of Commerce? Porky Pig maybe?” I said, “We already had enough pigs in commerce. Maybe he can ask Warren Buffet.” His eyebrows raised. He said, “What, no cartoon characters?” I said, “What’s the difference but hey, the other billionaires hate Warren because he openly admits paying far less taxes, percentage wise, than his secretary. Maybe he’ll help straighten it out. He‘s rich enough to offer the largest bribes…er, campaign donations to legislators and you know how they love that.” “Humph. How about secretary of State?” I said, “I’m not sure. Do you have any suggestions?” He thought about it for a minute.

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CROSSROADS JULY 2012

He finally said, “Snow White?” Having a woman negotiate with Arabs is dumb.” I said. “They think women are second class citizens. I was thinking more along the lines of Arnold Schwarzenegger or Sylvester Stallone. Terrorists would cringe in fear.” “But they aren’t cartoon characters either,” he said. “They’re close enough.” “Oh. Maybe you’re right. Who would you pick for Bugs’ press secretary?” I smiled and said, “Amos.” My friend knitted his brow and looked confused. He said, “Who is Amos?” I said, “The mouse in the movie “Ben and Me.” He was the one that helped Ben Franklin write the Pennsylvania Gazette. He’d be great with the media.” “Surely most news editors are smart enough to know Ben Franklin didn’t have a mouse help him,” my friend replied. I snorted. “What makes you think that?” “Well, there may be one or two…” He shook his head as if to clear it. He finally said, “The most feared person in politics is usually the President’s chief-of-staff. He’s the one that chooses who will get an audience with the president and who won’t. Who do you, er…no, who does Bugs have in mind for this job?” I smiled my most knowing smile. “Now that’s a good job for the Tasmanian Devil. He’ll fit right in with all the past chiefs but he’ll have one advantage they didn’t have.” I waited for him to respond. He smirked and tapped his foot before he finally said, “Okay, I’ll bite. What advantage?” I grinned broadly and said, “He’ll eat whoever gives him any lip.” “Okay wise guy,” he smirked. “What happens if Bugs gives him any lip?” I put my nose up and snootily replied, “That’s easy, he’ll use Daffy as a go-between.” He shouted, “Now that isn’t a bit funny!” I said, “Neither are the lesser of two or three evils.”

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Home Lawn Watering Needs BY BRAD S. FRESENBURG University of Missouri, Division of Plant Sciences Eighty percent of the water used around a home during the summer is for outside uses. Watering the lawn is the main outside water use. Water conservation is becoming more and more prevalent across the country and local water authorities may cut off water for outside usage. Measures of this kind are necessary and effective means to reduce water consumption and relieve the strain on city water supplies in many locations. To avoid severe loss of turf and conserve water, homeowners should manage their lawns each year with water conservation in mind. Know when to water – look for the signs Purple-blue wilting leaves, footprints that stay, and folded or rolled leaves are signs that lawns should be thoroughly watered if grasses are to remain green and actively growing. Turfgrass water use rates are high during sunny and windy days with low relative humidity. Evapotranspiration rates for turfgrasses in July and August, for central Missouri, is around 4-inches each month. In situations where lawns are not replenished with this amount of water by irrigation or rainfall, grasses first show symptoms of wilt and later turn completely brown (dormancy). When soil lacks moisture, leaves will be folded or rolled lengthwise along the blade, indicating a lack of plant water presenting a bluishpurple color. Another early sign of insufficient water in the plant occurs when footprints or wheel marks remain in the lawn for several hours. If high temperatures and dry conditions continue without rain or irrigation, the above-ground portion of grasses will turn entirely brown and senesce. Grasses are said to be dormant during this browned-out stage. Since the lower portion (crown) of the plant usually remains alive but not growing, the plant conserves moisture. Thorough watering, by irrigation or rainfall, will bring lawns out of dormancy and new leaf tissue will resume. Dormant lawns should receive at least 1 inch of water every two or three weeks during summer to prevent complete turf loss. Grasses may not show a noticeable greening, but that amount of irrigation should be sufficient to hydrate the lower plant portions and increase the recovery once adequate moisture is available.

Select a sprinkler that best fits your needs Automatic irrigation systems with pop-up sprinklers are often associated with excessive irrigation. This is not necessarily true, since properly designed and operated systems supply water uniformly over an entire area without wasted runoff. Missouri soils generally have low water infiltration rates. Automatic controllers can be set to supply several short cycles so that the total amount of water desired is supplied without runoff. The most common type of watering occurs with hose-end sprinklers. Some studies have shown that the average homeowner applies 2.5 times the amount of water that is required for turf growth when using hose-end sprinklers. There are several types of hose-end sprinklers. Select one that best fits your size and shape of lawn and then operate it efficiently. All hose-end sprinklers can be attached to inexpensive timers that can be used to shut off unattended sprinklers and avoid over-irrigation. How much water to apply Once you have decided on the best sprinkler for your size and shape of lawn, you must decide how long to operate a sprinkler in a certain location. This is best achieved by knowing how many inches of water your method of irrigation puts out in a certain amount of time. To do this, place shallow, straight-sided containers (tuna cans work well) or rain gauges in a grid pattern around the sprinkler. Operate the sprinklers (use overlapping patterns where needed) for a given amount of time and measure the amount of water captured. Then use the following example to determine your water application rate in inches per hour. For example, a sprinkler operated for 30 minutes that delivers a quarterinch of water has a delivery rate of one-half inch per hour. In the above examples, sprinklers should be operated approximately three hours in each location throughout the week to supply one inch of irrigation water per week. Most soils in Missouri will infiltrate only about ¼ to ½ inch of water per hour. If your sprinkler system delivers more than that amount, move it to a different location more frequently, after each ¼ to ½ inch of water has been applied. Repeat the process until the total amount of desired water has been applied. Continued on page 17

www.curbappealconcrete.com www.curbappealconcrete.com JULY 2012 CROSSROADS 15

FOOD

Celebrating Summer Cuisine, All-American Style (Family Features) It’s that time again – cookouts, picnics, family reunions and backyard parties are happening all over the country. Grocery carts are getting filled with hot dogs, fresh fruit and condiments galore, all in anticipation of some outdoor fun. Looking for some inspiration for a get-together? Look no further than time-tested and always versatile potato salad. There are many variations of this classic side, from mayonnaise-based dressings to zesty vinaigrettes. But it’s the dish’s delicious “accessories” that make it a crowd pleaser. Black olives are a popular addition to American potato salad. Known for their versatility, black olives are the perfect accessory to potato salad, adding a subtle, savory flavor to this party staple. And here’s something you might not know – 95 percent of the nation’s black and green ripe olives are grown on family farms in California, making them a true allAmerican ingredient. Here’s an easy recipe for your next gathering. While red, yellow and purple potatoes provide the ideal canvas, it’s the California Ripe Olives that make this potato salad a winner. For more recipe ideas, visit www.calolive.org.

Red, White and Blue Potato Salad Makes 4 servings INGREDIENTS: 1/2 1/2 1/4 2/3 1/3 1/3 1

pound red potatoes, diced pound Yukon Gold potatoes, diced pound purple potatoes, diced cup California Ripe Olives, halved cup green onions, chopped cup celery, diced tablespoon red wine vinegar

2 2 3 1/2 1 2

teaspoons Dijon mustard teaspoons capers, drained tablespoons extra virgin olive oil teaspoon salt pinch freshly ground black pepper tablespoons flat-leaf parsley, chopped

DIRECTIONS: In large pot, boil water and potatoes. Cook until tender, drain and cool to room temperature. Combine potatoes, olives, green onions and celery in a large mixing bowl and set aside. In medium bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar, mustard and capers. Gradually whisk in olive oil, then season with salt, pepper and parsley. Pour dressing over potato mixture and toss until evenly coated.

16 CROSSROADS JULY 2012

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Home Lawn Watering Needs Once the decision has been made that a lawn has sufficiently wilted and irrigation is needed, supply enough water to last a week. Depending on the type of sprinkler and soil water infiltration rate, several sprinkler changes may be required over a two- or three-day period to supply the amount of water desired. If no rainfall occurs, continue to irrigate on a weekly schedule. If rainfall occurs, delay the next irrigation until symptoms of wilt is present. Even though water application is discussed on a weekly basis, it is not crucial that water be applied every seven days. Keep the application schedule flexible and irrigate based on the determination of lawn wilting and soil moisture. Use the following table to determine the amount of irrigation that will be needed for your lawn situation. Table 1. Approximate water requirements for various lawns Lawn type Green Turf¹ Dormant Turf2 inches of water/week inches of water/week Tall fescue Kentucky bluegrass 1.0 0.6 Kentucky bluegrass 1.2 0.7 Tall fescue 0.8 0.5 Zoysia or bermuda 0.5 0.2 Buffalograss 0.3 0.2 ¹Lawn remains green and growing ²Lawn may turn brown, but will not die

(continued)

be used to determine where and when there is a need for irrigation. Conserve water with these practices • The best time to water a lawn is from 6 to 8 a.m. During this time the water pressure is highest, disruption of the water pattern from wind is low, and water lost to the atmosphere by evaporation is negligible. Watering early in the morning also has the advantage of reducing the chance of turfgrass diseases that require extended periods of leaf moisture. Avoid irrigation during mid-day and windy conditions. • Move sprinklers frequently to avoid puddles and runoff. • Water only when the plant tells you to. Become familiar with areas of the lawn that wilt first (blue/purple leaves, rolled leaves, foot printing). Water within a day of observing these symptoms. • Water problem areas by hand to postpone the need for irrigation of the entire lawn. Some areas of a lawn usually wilt before others. These areas, or “hot spots,” may be caused by hard soils that take up water slowly, slopes, southern exposures and warmer areas next to driveways and walks. Lawns that have unusual shapes also may require some hand watering to avoid unnecessary watering of paved surfaces, mulched beds and buildings. Soaker hoses that have a narrow pattern and supply water at a slow rate may be useful in these areas.

Once the decision has been made to irrigate, use the above recommendations to guide irrigation scheduling and how much water to supply. Should puddles or runoff occur before the total amount of water is applied, stop irrigating and resume only after the ground has absorbed the free moisture. Lawn areas that are moist, firm and have no visible water are ready for a repeat irrigation cycle. Areas that are soft and produce squashy footprints when walked on are not ready to receive additional irrigation. Check a few locations in the yard the day after watering to determine how well your irrigation program is distributing water. With a shovel, cut a slender 2-inch wedge 6 to 8 inches deep. This wedge of soil, roots and turf can be replaced easily without damage to the lawn after inspection. Estimate the moisture content at different depths in the soil profile by pressing together a golf-ball-sized amount of soil. If drops of water can be squeezed from the soil ball, you may be irrigating too much or too often. Soils that hold together without crumbling and appear moist have been irrigated properly. Soils that appear dry, dusty and do not form a ball when squeezed have not received enough irrigation or the water is running off the surface of the lawn and not into the root zone. Adequate soil moisture at 6 to 8 inches deep is sufficient to maintain grasses during the summer. A foot-long slender screwdriver pushed into the ground in several locations can also give a quick assessment of the moisture condition of the soil. The screwdriver will easily penetrate a soil, which has received sufficient water. The screwdriver test can also JULY 2012 CROSSROADS 17

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LAKE SAINT LOUIS - DARDENNE PRAIRIE BY GENA BREYNE Chamber News Whether you are looking for goods or services or just something for the family to do, The Lake Saint Louis Dardenne Prairie Area Chamber of Commerce website is a great resource. Take time to visit us at www.lsldpchamber.com. All of the businesses that are members of the Chamber help to support the economic vitality of the community. Please give special consideration to these businesses when choosing where to shop, play or stay.

Welcome New Members The Lake Saint Louis Dardenne Prairie Area Chamber of Commerce is excited to present our newest members. These new members join the more than 250 local businesses that are proud to be known as members of the LSLDP Area Chamber. To find more information on any of our members please visit www.lsldpchamber.com. Tri County Fence & Deck - Jerry Engelhard - GM 1902 E. Service Rd., Highway 61 N Wentzville, MO 63385 - 636.887.4030

Pub N Grub LLC - Mrs. Nicol Potter & Jason Armbruster Dardenne Town Square, Dardenne Prairie, MO 63368 636.625.4800

RMS Enterprise LLC (dba JanKing), Rhonda Schulte - Owner/Pres.

P. O. Box 504, Troy, MO 63379 636.295.5905

Ribbon Cuttings The Lake Saint Louis Dardenne Prairie Area Chamber of Commerce would like to congratulate members that have held recent ribbon cuttings. The following business and organizations celebrated grand openings or ribbon cutting ceremonies: Mers Goodwill Nike Lake St. Louis Mrs. Vicki Mcknelly - District Manager Stephanie Celeslie General Manager/Head Coach 913 Robert Ramond Drive, Lake Saint Louis, MO 63367 25 Meadows Circle Drive, Suite 502, Lake St. Louis, MO 63367 636.625.4256 636.625.0846 The City Dardenne Prairie Grassmuck Realty, LLC. Garden Club and Seniors Group Mrs. Sandy Grassmuck 2032 Hanley Road, Dardenne Prairie, MO 63368 100 Centre on the Lake, Lake Saint Louis, MO 63367 636.634.2828 To find more information on each of these ribbon cuttings please visit www.lsldpchamber.com. Representatives of each business, the Lake Saint Louis Dardenne Prairie Area Chamber of commerce and the city helped cut the ceremonial ribbons. For more information please contact the Lake Saint Louis Dardenne Prairie Area Chamber of Commerce at 636.755.5335 or visit us online at www.lsldpchamber. com Photos courtesy LSL/DP Chamber of Commerce

Nike Lake St. Louis

Music in the Park

CROSSROADS JULY 2012

City of Dardenne Prairie Garden Club

Mers Goodwill

Grassmuck Realty

City of Dardenne Prairie Seniors Group

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www.rivercityrascals.com JULY 2012 CROSSROADS 19

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Blockbuster @Home (1 disc at a time): Only available with new qualifying DISH service activated between 5/21/12 and 7/31/12. For the first 3 months of your subscription, you receive a bundle of Blockbuster @Home for $5/mo (regularly $10/mo) and your programming package at a promotional bundle price. Promotional prices continue for 3 months provided you subscribe to both components of the bundle and do not downgrade. After 3 months, then-current prices apply to each component (unless a separate promotional price still applies to your programming package). Requires online DISH account for discs by mail; broadband Internet to stream content; HD DVR to stream to TV. Exchange online rentals for free in-store movie rentals at participating Blockbuster stores. Offer not available in Puerto Rico or U.S. Virgin Islands. Streaming to TV and some channels not available with select packages. • Digital Home Advantage plan requires 24-month agreement and credit qualification. Cancellation fee of $17.50/month remaining applies if service is terminated before end of agreement. With qualifying packages, Online Bonus credit requires AutoPay with Paperless Billing, email opt-in for DISH E-Newsletter, and online no later than 45 days from service activation. After applicable promotional period, then-current price will apply. $10/mo HD add-on fee waived for life of current account; requires 24-month agreement, continuous enrollment in AutoPay with Paperless Billing. 3-month premium movie offer value is up to $132; after 3 months then-current price applies unless you downgrade. Free Standard Professional Installation only. Upfront fee, monthly fees, and limits on number and type of receivers will apply. Limitations apply to recording hours. Prices, packages, programming and offers subject to change without notice. Additional restrictions may apply. Offer available for new and qualified former customers and ends 7/31/12. HBO®, Cinemax® and related channels and service marks are the property of Home Box Office, Inc. SHOWTIME is a registered trademark of Showtime Networks Inc., a CBS Company. STARZ and related channels and service marks are property of Starz Entertainment, LLC.