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February 8, 2017

Repairing the homefront Rehab of vet’s home just the beginning as unique partnership plans to help more veterans in North County

Around Town Free tax preparation available for local low-income households and more. P.3

Community Voices By Brenda Mahr. P.2

School

By Nicholas Elmes For over 20 years Pine Lawn resident Fred Reeves served his country as a mechanic in the military, but as he aged the veteran who had spent his life fixing things for his country found it harder and harder to fix things in his own home. His kitchen was in disrepair, there were plumbing issues, floors and walls were in need of repair and fresh paint and his front door badly needed to be replaced. Thankfully in January a group of concerned citizens and business owners in North County decided to do something for Reeves, both as a way to give back the community and to Submitted photos thank him for his service. The rehab project was the Volunteers from The Home Depot Foundation, Beyond Housing and North Counbrainchild of North County ty Police Cooperative worked together to rehab the home of Pine Lawn resident and veteran Fred Reeves. Police Cooperative Chief Tim Swope and Ferguson Home Depot Product to get some notoriety and started calls from Supervisor Danielle Zamarripa. people who wanted to help,” said Swope. “I wanted to try to get involved in the com“It really turned into something incredible munity as much as I could,” said Zamarripa, that none of us anticipated,” said Zamarripa. noting that the Home Depot Foundation “The whole community stepped forward has a history of supporting veterans. “I met and everything fell into place. The Holiday Chief Swope and we started brainstorming Inn granted Mr. Reeves a four-day stay so and came up with the idea.” he could be away while the build was hapThe pair brought in Beyond Housing, a St. pening. Best Home Furnishing out of South Louis-based nonprofit community develop- County donated a couch and chair. Thrift ment organization, and got to work in mak- stores donated a lot of hardwood furniture ing their dream a reality. that we painted so it looked brand new and After assessing the work that needed to be uniform throughout the house. The fire dedone in Reeves’ home and receiving a $5,000 partment came over and installed smoke grant from the Home Depot Foundation, the detectors and carbon monoxide alarms. partnership set a date for volunteers from The local 562 pipe fitters union showed up the police cooperative and Home Depot to with about four apprentices and worked for start the repairs. two days solid completely redoing all of the “We started with the front door,” said plumbing.” Swope. “Then we did the flooring in the livBy the end of three days of work from over ing room, we did the flooring in the kitch- 30 volunteers, Reeves had an almost brand en and the hallway. We painted all of those new house to come home to. areas. We added a ceiling fan in the dining “This is a game-changer for Mr. Reeves,” room area.” said Chris Krehmeyer, president and CEO, The volunteers also replaced all of the cab- for Beyond Housing. “So many of our vetinets and appliances in Reeve’s kitchen. erans are struggling with the upkeep of their “As we were doing all of this, we started homes either because they can’t afford re-

Hazelwood West basketball player scores 1,000th point and more. P.8

Learn & Play

Love is in the air – every day! P.11

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Pine Lawn resident and veteran Fred Reeves received thousands of dollars of repairs to his home as a thank you for his service from local community groups.

pairs or health issues keep them from doing repairs themselves.” Swope said the additional support was key in providing items that made the rehab complete. “There were things we did not even think of,” he said. “We put in the new refrigerator and looked at each other and went, how are we going to give this guy a new fridge with nothing in it?” “So Chief Swope got Dierbergs to donate all the food and we stocked his fridge and See ‘HOMEFRONT’ page 2

Serving North & Northwest St. Louis County | FREE Online at mycnews.com | Vol. 96 No. 4 | 636-379-1775

Oscar Watch 2017: Did Meryl Streep really need to be nominated again? P.16

Weather FRIDAY Sunny 54/44 SATURDAY Chance of Rain 65/46 SUNDAY Chance of Rain 53/33 FirstWarn Weather

prepared by meteorologist Nick Palisch. For the latest updates visit www.facebook.com/nickswx.

Around Town

February 8, 2017 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

COMMUNITY VOICES Finding your roots – a fascinating journey By Brenda Mahr Taraji P. Henson, star of “Empire,” producer, singer, etc. is a descendant of Matthew A. Henson. Matthew is the African American who explored the North Pole with Admiral Robert E. Peary in 1906. For a time he and Peary lived among the Inuit (Eskimo) people. The records show Mathew fathered Anauakaq with an Inuit woman named Akatingwah. Anauakaq left twenty grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The family is based in Nuuk, Northern Greenland about 90 miles from the North Pole. Clearly exploring your roots can be a fascinating journey that may connect you with relatives that may “rock your world, all over the world!” Exploring my roots connected me with a fascinating story about my great-great grandfather, Griffin Brander (1814-1888), a free man of color who travelled from Petersburg, Virginia to St. Louis in 1840. For more information: http://shsmo.org/ manuscripts/stlouis/s0355.pdf. And my “Papa Berry” connected me with a cousin, rock and roll icon Chuck Berry! Another fascinating story! Now how to get started in such an undertaking? Where might I find help? You are in luck! The St.

Get your event or good news published in Community News: email your information in calendar and article formats to editor@mycnews.com.

Louis African American and History Society (STLAAHGS) was formed in 2004 to address such questions. Meetings are held on the third Saturday of each month from 1 – 3 p.m. in the ATT Room of the History Museum in Forest Park. Come join us, the meetings are free to attend and annual membership dues are only $25. Whether you are a beginner looking for an opportunity to get your feet wet in genealogy; or an experienced family history researcher wishing to take your skills to the next level, several workshops are designed with you in mind at our upcoming conference. The growth of genealogy research companies like Afrigeneas.com, Ancestry.com, MyHeritage. com, FamilySearch.com and others has made it possible for African Americans to engage in family history research by using technology and other resources. In any case you should mark your calendar for Saturday, Feb. 18 at Harris-Stowe State University for the STLAAHGS 9th Genealogy Conference. Dr. Debbie Abbott nationally known African-American genealogist is the keynote speaker. LaCherl Cillie,

an artifacts expert, will share tips on how to value and preserve your family heirlooms. Attend workshops on beginning genealogy, basic DNA, How to use the National Archives for tips, family search with Google and other technologies for genealogy research. For further information contact Jim Vincent at 636579-8232 or Brenda Mahr at brendamahr@att.net. Brenda Mahr, MWDP is Chief Executive Officer of Employment Connection, a proud member of the United Way of Greater St. Louis. Member: St. Louis Alliance for Reentry (STAR); Community Advisory Board-St. Louis Regional Health Commission; National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice; Vashon Alumni Hall of Fame; 2015 Archdiocese St. Charles Lwanga Torchbearer Awardee. The opinions expressed in this column are the columnist’s alone and do not reflect the opinion of the owners or staff of Community News.

‘HOMEFRONT’ from cover cabinets,” said Zamarripa. “I got additional permission from my store manager to go above the grant and purchase materials for the toilet, vanity, plumbing supplies and additional paint for the bedroom.” But in the end, all of the work and planning was worth it. “We were all sore but man we felt so good when Mr. Reeves walked in and saw what we were able to accomplish,” said Swope. “How can we not keep doing that? There are so many veterans out there that need help and they are proud and often times do not want to go out and ask for help.” He said thanks to the funding support of Home Depot and the planning and organizing help from Beyond Housing he hopes to be able to do at least one rehab project every quarter, alternating between the seven municipalities that the North County Police Cooperative serves. “North County is a beautiful community and we are willing to help, to do our small part of trying to make the community better,” he said. “This is the first of many. We already have pledges with Home Depot and Beyond Housing. We are going to sit down and analyze what we can do better. We are also going to try to get donations for each individual project.” “This was a pilot,” agreed Zamarripa. “There is a whole other side to what is going on up here and I am glad people are starting to see that.” Swope said the efforts will also help to continue to improve relationships with the community and law enforcement. “It has to be more than coming to work and driving around in circles and handling calls, and at times being adversarial with the bad guys in the community,” he said. “You can’t just go to work and go home. You have to invest your off time and bring your family to events and give back. In the end that is what it is all about.” He said those efforts to be more involved with the community was being led by his leadership team, but noted that the whole department “gets it.” “We have developed relationships in the community that at times would have taken decades,” he said. “The community knows that our hearts are in it and it truly means something to us.”

Above is the kitchen of Fred Reeves before the remodel and below is the kitchen after the remodel, complete with new appliances.

Submitted photos Volunteers worked to repair the home of veteran Fred Reeves, doing everything from scraping paint to installing new fixtures and appliances.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • February 8, 2017

Pine Lawn celebrates Dr. King with several events

Around Town

WWW.MYCNEWS.COM

www.byerlyrv.com The city of Pine Lawn held the first parade in its history on Jan. 16 by paying tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

The city of Pine Lawn held the first parade in its history on Jan. 16. Under the leadership of the current Mayor Terry Epps, the city of Pine Lawn paid tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with a parade, a Dr. King Day program and free skating at Skate King Skating Center. With the theme, “Honoring the Pioneers of the Past,” the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Parade began at Skate King with multiple businesses including Autco Home, Deer Valley Home Health Care, LLC and Friends of Normandy Scholarship Committee leading the way. The Normandy Senior High School’s marching band and majorette dancers entertained the citizens as they marched and danced through the streets. Moving northbound on Jennings Station Rd. to eastbound on Stratford Ave., the parade ended at New Life Empowerment Center, located at 6401 Stratford Ave. With the control of traffic from the North County Police Cooperative, the parade route was smooth and uninterrupted.

Photo courtesy city of Pine Lawn

Immediately following the parade there was a Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Program inside the church. Guest speakers included Dr. Ron Gregory, President of The New Millennium Group and the city of St. Louis’ very first African-American fire commissioner and chief, Chief Sherman George. After the program, the culinary students from St. Louis Job Corps, under the leadership of Chef Pat, provided a reception with a full-course meal. After the reception, everyone who received a ticket before leaving the church, were allowed to be admitted to skate at Skate King Skating Center free of charge from 3 – 6 p.m. The entire day was planned for and with the purpose of the Pine Lawn citizens and their guests in mind to come together in unity and celebrate the honor and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. “It is my desire that our great citizens will together continue to move the city of Pine Lawn forward with additional ‘community first’ collaborative events such as this one,” said Epps.

DNA tests provide first definitive confirmation of a female mountain lion in Missouri since 1994 The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) recently received DNA results from a confirmed mountain lion in Shannon County. Those results indicated the mountain lion was a female with a probable origin in the Black Hills of Wyoming and South Dakota and Northwest Nebraska. This is the first definitive confirmation of a female mountain lion being present in Missouri since 1994. “Mountain lions are still rare in Missouri,” said MDC Wildlife Management Coordinator Alan Leary. “The detection of a female increases the likelihood that breeding could occur within the state, but at this point we don’t have evidence that a breeding population exists in Missouri.” In 1996, the department established its Mountain Lion Response Team (MLRT) with speciallytrained staff to investigate reports and evidence of mountain lions. Since then, all mountain lion sightings confirmed by the MLRT have either proven to be males, or have provided insufficient evidence to determine the animal’s sex. Since 1994, MDC has recorded 68 confirmed mountain lion sightings in the state. On Jan. 21, MDC confirmed a male mountain lion was struck and killed by a vehicle on Interstate 70 in Warren County. Confirmations have become more common in recent years, likely due to a combination of factors, according to MDC Furbearer Biologist Laura Conlee. “We know the mountain lion population has grown in western states, and that could translate to more dispersing mountain lions making their way into Missouri, but we have also gotten better at finding them,” Conlee said. “As technology has advanced, we’ve seen an explosion in the numbers of game cameras across the Mis-

Photo courtesy Missouri Department of Conservation

souri landscape. We’ve also established more efficient methods for reporting and investigating mountain lion sightings. These factors all likely play a role in the increased number of confirmed mountain lion sightings in our state.” The risk of a mountain lion attack in Missouri remains highly unlikely. No mountain lion attack on a human has ever been recorded in the state. People, livestock and pets face a much greater risk from familiar dangers we encounter including automobiles, stray dogs and lightning strikes. MDC has never stocked or released mountain lions in Missouri and has no plans to do so. However, the department wants to learn more about these rare animals and encourages all citizens to report sightings, physical evidence, or other incidents so they can be investigated. Anyone with information about a mountain lion can file a report with the Mountain Lion Response Team at mountain.lion@mdc.mo.gov. To learn more about mountain lions, and to view a map of confirmed sightings in Missouri, visit mdc.mo.gov/mountain-lion.

www.MidwestBankCententre.com

Around Town

February 8, 2017 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

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Free tax preparation available for local low-income households United Way 2-1-1 is partnering with local tax coalitions to provide free tax preparation services to St. Louis-area families with a household income of $54,000 or less in 2016. Last year, the partnership helped more than 20,000 people in our region receive nearly $21 million in tax refunds. “Through free tax preparation services, we hope to again help many working families this year receive all of the tax credits they qualify for,” said Debbie Irwin, community economic development director, United Way of Greater St. Louis. “The partnership between United Way 2-1-1 and these tax coalitions is a great asset to local families and the St. Louis region, as the money saved through the free tax preparation assistance as well as refunds received through tax credits represents additional investments into our region through things like basic needs, transportation, housing and education.” United Way’s tax coalition partners include Friendly Community Tax Coalition, Gateway EITC Community Coalition, National Association of Black Accountants, and St. Louis Tax Assistance Program. In 2016, 765 volunteers worked through the coalitions to provide services for the region, helping local low-income households save approximately $5 million in tax preparation services. Anyone interested in receiving tax preparation help and who is eligible under the $54,000 household income threshold may contact United Way at 2-11 or 1-800-427-4626, or visit www.211helps.org for information on qualifications, locations, dates and a list of documents required for services. Sites operate on an appointment or walk-in basis. The coalitions also focus on bringing awareness to local individuals and families who qualify to receive a refund through the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), a federal tax credit designed to help people increase their financial stability. The average national EITC refund in 2016 was more than $2,455. According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, in 2015, over 26 million families and individuals nationwide received a federal EITC refund, which helped lift approximately 6.5 million people out of the poverty threshold. The following locations, dates and times are available for Saturday walk-in sites. For all other locations and times, individuals may call 2-1-1 or 1-800-4274626. United Way provides information and referral to all free income tax sites in the greater St. Louis region through its United Way 2-1-1 call center.

SUPER SATURDAY SITES (no appointment necessary) CITY OF ST. LOUIS

Cardinal Ritter College Prep 701 Spring Ave, St. Louis Saturdays to March 4, 8:30 – 11:30 a.m.

Cornerstone Institutional Baptist Church 4700 Washington Blvd, St. Louis Saturdays: Feb. 25; March 4, 18, 25; April 1, 8; from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Five Star Senior Center

2832 Arsenal Street, St. Louis Saturdays to March 25 from 9 a.m. – noon (closed March 4)

Friendly Temple MB Church

1400 Clara, St. Louis Saturdays to April 15 from 9 a.m. – noon

Myrtle Hilliard Davis Comprehensive Health Center 5471 Dr. Martin Luther King Drive, St. Louis Saturdays to April 15 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

New City Fellowship

1142 Hodiamont Ave., St. Louis Saturdays: Feb. 11, 25; March 11, 25; April 1, 8 from 9 a.m. – noon

UM-St. Louis – Schlafly Library 225 North Euclid, St. Louis Saturdays to April 15 from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

St. Mary’s High School

4701 S. Grand Ave., St. Louis Saturdays to March 4 from 8:30 – 11:30 a.m.

St. Louis College Prep

1224 Grattan, St. Louis Saturdays: Feb.18; March 4, 18; April 1 from 9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Westside Missionary Baptist Church 4675 Page Blvd., St. Louis Saturdays to April 8 from 9 – 11:30 a.m. (closed March 18 and 25) ST. LOUIS COUNTY

Believers Temple Word Fellowship 2115 Chambers Rd, St. Louis County Saturdays to March 4 from 8:30 – 11:30 a.m.

Lincoln University

9041 Riverview Drive, St. Louis County Saturdays to March 25 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Lucas Crossing Elementary School 7837 Natural Bridge Rd., St. Louis County Saturdays to March 4 from 8:30 – 11:30 a.m. (closed February 18)

Omega Center

3900 Goodfellow Blvd, St. Louis County Saturdays to April 15 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

RTR/DCC (Deaf Community Center)

8764 Manchester Road, Suite 201, St. Louis County Saturdays to March 4 from 9 a.m. – noon (Sign language interpreters available.)

Southern Mission Baptist Church 8171 Wesley, St. Louis County Saturdays to April 8 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

The MET Center

6347 Plymouth Avenue, St. Louis County Saturdays to April 1 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

UM-ST. Louis – Blessed Teresa of Calcutta 120 North Elizabeth, St. Louis County Saturdays to April 8 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. (closed February 25)

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • February 8, 2017

Around Town

St. Andrew’s announces call for nominations for Lighthouse for the Blind-St. 15th Annual Ageless Remarkable St. Louisans Gala Louis Earns award from National Nominations are now being accepted for se- image of older adults. Over the past 15 years, Industries for the Blind niors to be recognized at the St. Andrew’s Resources for Seniors System’s 2017 Ageless Remarkable St. Louisans Gala. Each year, the event honors outstanding St. Louis area older adults, age 75 and up, for their many incredible contributions on the job front, and in areas such as philanthropy and volunteer service. Nominations are being accepted now through March 10 via the St. Andrew’s website at www.standrews1. com. A printable version of the nomination form is also available via the website and may be completed and mailed to the St. Andrew’s offices at: 6633 Delmar Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63130. Seniors from across the entire St. Louis metropolitan area and Metro East are eligible for recognition at the 2017 gala, which will take place Oct. 28. The Ageless Remarkable St. Louisans Gala continues to play a critical role in helping to reshape the face of aging in the region, while also transforming, enhancing and improving the

Moore On Life

more than 300 seniors have been recognized for their amazing contributions well past the traditional age of retirement. The annual gala has also raised more than $3.8 million dollars since 2003 to help meet the needs of low-income and at-risk seniors in the St. Louis area. “We are so excited to celebrate 15 years of recognizing some of the region’s most dynamic older adults,” said Mary Alice Ryan, President and CEO of the St. Andrew’s Resources for Seniors System. “Over the last decade-and-a-half, we’ve had the opportunity to showcase the incredible lives of so many diverse and outstanding area seniors who are demonstrating how truly fulfilling life can be after age 75. And, as we look forward to recognizing our 15th class of amazing honorees, we encourage individuals from across the St. Louis Metro area to nominate the many inspirational philanthropists, volunteers, business people and other notable seniors who continue to make a difference in our community.”

By Cindy Moore

Lighthouse for the Blind-St. Louis has been honored by National Industries for the Blind (NIB), the nation’s largest employment resource for people who are blind, with the 2016 Employment Growth Award. The award recognizes Lighthouse for the Blind-St. Louis’ efforts to increase employment retention, growth and upward mobility for people who are blind. “We are particularly proud to receive NIB’s 2016 Employment Growth Award because 70 percent of working-age Americans who are blind are not employed,” said John Thompson, president of Lighthouse for the Blind-Saint Louis, also known as LHB Industries, Inc. “People in the blind community are one of the nation’s greatest untapped labor resources – that is why the Lighthouse and NIB lobby for policy changes to help people who are blind become more independent through job training, education and employment to earn steady income.” Kevin Lynch, NIB president and CEO, said, “It is an honor for me to recognize Lighthouse for the Blind-St. Louis with an Employment Growth Award for 2016. Lighthouse for the BlindSt. Louis continues to lead the way in creating employment and high-growth career opportunities for people who are blind.”

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www.stlchristian.edu

Game on I was recently sent out on an assignment of the utmost importance – to buy enough provisions to feed a small country. After bringing the last bag of groceries into the kitchen, I suddenly spied my husband dressed in military fatigues positioned in front of a gigantic American flag. His hands were behind his back until the last sack hit the counter. He then marched forward crisply, clicked his boots together and stared down his nose at me. “Soldier, have you completed your mission as outlined?” I saluted and barked back, “Sir, yes Sir!” “Then fall in line and report.” “Sir, yes Sir!” “At ease.” He said as he unfolded a list and loudly called out, “Chili cheese dogs!” “Affirmative!” “Buffalo wings with ranch dressing!” “Got ‘em!” “Pizza!” “Yes Sir!” “With extra packages of those little cheesy sprinkles I like so well?” ”Nothing but the best Sir!” “Someone’s bucking for promotion. Good work! Now then, little wieners and barbecue sauce?” “Absolutely and bacon wrapped as well, Sir!” He began to giggle then felt embarrassed and clicked his heels loudly again then continued, “Baby back ribs, jalapeno poppers, chips and salsa, cheddar potato skins, beverages?” All were confirmed up until he inquired about the meat and cheese platter. “Sir, no sir”! I said.

He got so close our eyeballs touched. “Explain yourself, Soldier!” He growled. “Well,” I began, “I thought since there was enough fatty food to choke the arteries of a small herd of elephants, that it would be prudent to include a tray of carrots, kale and cauliflower.” “What!? This is the Super Bowl we’re talking about. If I want my arteries cleansed, I’ll take a fire hose and stick it down my throat full throttle! This game calls for man food and I expect full compliance when I issue a command and not some tea party snacks for sissified vegetable eaters. Are you working with the enemy? Now drop and give me 50 pushups!” “Okay Patton!” I whooped. “That’s it! You have crossed the line. All this is going back and you’re getting spinach SALAD!” He dropped to the ground and grabbed me around the knees whimpering, “Sorry! I got into character too much. How can I make it up to you?” “Alright, I’ll make the snacks, if you make sure and call me in only for the million-dollar commercials.” We reached an agreement. Isn’t this how all nations should achieve peace? 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. The opinions expressed in this column are Cindy Moore’s alone and do not reflect the opinion of the owners or staff of Community News.

www.aperioncare.com

Around Town

February 8, 2017 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

‘Grey Gardens,’ ‘Follies’ top nominations for Fifth Annual St. Louis Theater Circle Awards

www.MasterGCR.com

Max & Louie Productions’ presentation of “Grey Gardens” and The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis’ production of “Follies,” which kicked off The Rep’s 50th anniversary season, with 11 and 10 nominations, respectively, lead a glittering array of talent nominated for the fifth annual St. Louis Theater Circle Awards. The awards honor outstanding achievement in locally produced professional theater for the calendar year 2016. This year’s ceremony will be held on March 20 at the Skip Viragh Center for the Arts on the campus of Chaminade College Preparatory School at 425 South Lindbergh Blvd. Tickets are $15 apiece and can be obtained by contacting Brown Paper Tickets at www.brownpapertickets. com or at the Viragh Center box office on the night of the event. The awards event will include two new categories devoted exclusively to opera productions created by local professional opera companies. Nominees from Opera Theatre Saint Louis, Union Avenue Opera and Winter Opera St. Louis are among the contenders. The 2017 presentation will feature nominees from six companies being represented for the first time in consideration of St. Louis Theater Circle Awards. Those companies are ACT INC, Equally Represented Arts, Winter Opera St. Louis, Young Liars, the Tennessee Williams Festival

and Variety Children’s Theatre. Top contenders for awards besides “Grey Gardens” and “Follies” include “The Drowsy Chaperone” at Stages St. Louis, “42nd Street” at The Muny and “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” at Shakespeare Festival St. Louis. The Rep leads all companies with 24 nominations, followed by 12 nominations for St. Louis Shakespeare. Max & Louie Productions, Stages St. Louis, Stray Dog Theatre and The Muny each had 11 nominations, while Shakespeare Festival St. Louis garnered 10 nominations. In all, 27 local companies received nominations in 33 categories for comedy, drama, musical and opera. There are 119 individuals up for awards, led by local actor Will Bonfiglio, who is nominated in a record four different categories. With Love Caterin again will cater the event, offering pre-ordered food as well as drinks will be available on a cash basis. Tickets for the preceremony buffet must be reserved and paid for in advance. Menu description and buffet tickets can be obtained at 314-637-7907 or www.withlovecatering.com. Nominations for the St. Louis Theater Circle Awards are divided into categories for musicals, dramas, comedies and opera. More than 120 local professional theatrical productions were presented in the St. Louis area in 2016.

Weather from Nick’s Window

by Nick Palisch

More weather predictors…

www.dschuster.com

Last week I talked about how our cup of coffee can help predict the weather if you want to go back in time before all the fancy and sophisticated forecasting tools. Additionally, many used other means to predict the weather, such as a halo around the moon, a red sky in the morning, the opening and closing of a pinecone and the aches in our joints. These are just a few of the many instances of weather lore that hold some merit. Does a halo around the moon tell of bad weather on the way? Yes, a circle around the moon is known as a halo, which is formed by the light of the moon refracting (or bending) as it passes through ice crystals created by high cirrus clouds. While these clouds are not moisture producing they do signal the arrival of a lowpressure system which is responsible for stormy weather. I remember back when I would sit on my grandpa’s lap and we would watch out the front window and the leaves of the maple tree would turn over and my grandpa would say, “A storm is coming” and sure enough bad weather was on the horizon. The curling of the leaves occurs when the humidity is high and we have strong winds, both of which indicate a storm is on the way. Some mornings the sunrise produces an awesome color scheme of reds, pinks and oranges. The saying, “Red sky in the morning, sailors give warning. Red sky at night, sailors delight.” does have some credibility with weather forecasting. In the United States, our weather patterns generally move west to east, so the arrival of clouds in the morning will turn the morning sky a red, which indicates a storm system could be on the way. When the storms clear and the sky begins to clear, we see a red glow giving way to

calmer weather. The cricket is a great forecaster – especially for temperatures. The faster they chirp, the warmer the weather; the slower they chirp they colder it is. If you count their chirps for fourteen seconds, then add forty you will have the actual air temperature in Fahrenheit. Unbelievably, this is very accurate! A pinecone is also a good indicator of changing weather. A pinecone will open when the weather is dry and humidity is low, but when the humidity is high and weather is wet and stormy; they will close to protect the seeds within the pinecone. Lastly, I hear it all the time, “My joints are hurting…it is going to rain.” Unfortunately, while it cannot be 100 percent verified, the theory is that low pressure causes the tissue in our joints to expand, which can put some pressure on the joints. So, when your knee starts to ache – get ready for some rain in the next day or so. The list of folklore goes on and on; some hold merit and others are just wives’ tales. Just remember our everyday environment can predict the weather and perhaps it is more reliable than all those sophisticated weather models we use today. Nick Palisch is a meteorologist and Missouri native who understands the weather here in our area. He currently resides in Lake Saint Louis and can be reached at nick-wx@sbcglobal.net and you can always get the most up-to-date forecast from the FirstWarn Weather page at www.facebook.com/ nickswx The opinions expressed in this column are the columnist’s alone and do not reflect the opinion of the owners or staff of Community News.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • February 8, 2017

Around Town

Confluence Trash Bash coming to clean up North St. Louis and North St. Louis County Confluence Trash Bash is the annual clean-up in North St. Louis and North St. Louis County and takes place March 18 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. All are welcome and no experience is required. Individual volunteers, civic groups and youth organizations are encouraged to attend. Please dress appropriately for working outside and current weather conditions. Be prepared to get wet and muddy. Transportation is available for school and other groups by contacting Colleen Scott (Colleen.Scott@ mdc.mo.gov) at Missouri Department of Conservation. Register online at www.greeenwaynetwork.org. Please bring a completed waiver with you.

Volunteers can choose from multiple locations as their starting site, after which they will be assigned to specific areas to clean. Check-in time is 8 - 8:45 a.m.

ditions). This group will be paddling across the Mississippi River to Mosenthein Island. There is limited space (20 people).

1. Old Chain of Rocks Bridge at10950 Riverview Drive in St. Louis.

4. Creve Coeur Park at 2160 Creve Coeur Mill Road in St. Louis County.

2. Missouri River Relief at 10950 Riverview Drive in St. Louis is organizing a site on the Mississippi River at Mosenthein Island (subject to change due to river conditions). There is limited space (40 people). For more information check their website at www.riverrelief.org.

5. Creve Coeur Park using boats on Mallard Lake at 2160 Creve Coeur Mill Road in St. Louis County.

3. Big Muddy Adventures at 10950 Riverview Drive in St. Louisis organizing a site on the Mississippi River at Mosenthein Island (subject to change due to river con-

6. Sunset Park at 2300 Sunset Park Drive in Florissant. 7. City of Bridgeton at 13217 Ferguson Ln. in Bridgeton. 8. For the city of Overland site only please call (314) 4272401 or (314) 662-2401 for location and registration.

Vote Best of North County 2017 www.londoff.com

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School

February 8, 2017 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Barack Obama Elementary hosts Kidsmart’s 15th birthday party

Hazelwood West basketball player scores 1,000th point

Photo courtesy Normandy Schools Collaborative Sports mascots Louie from the St. Louis Blues (left) and Fred Bird with the St. Louis Cardinals celebrate the 15th birthday of Kidsmart with students at Barack Obama Elementary in the Normandy Schools Collaborative.

Barack Obama Elementary recently hosted a 15th birthday bash for Kidsmart, a local nonprofit that provides free school supplies for teachers. For the celebration, mascots from the St. Louis Cardinals and the St. Louis Blues helped Kidsmart pass out backpacks and school supplies to Obama students. Kidsmart volunteers with Enterprise Holdings, The Place and Kids Vision for Life helped Fred Bird and Louie distribute the goods. Kidsmart President Jennifer Miller said the company chose Barack Obama Elementary because of the school’s excellent reputation. “This school is such beacon of hope in the community,” said Miller. “Students and teachers

are happy here. You can see and feel it walking into the building. Kidsmart enjoys giving back to schools who inspire a community.” Barack Obama Elementary is in the Normandy Schools Collaborative. After the big party in the gymnasium, Kidsmart volunteers teamed with teachers to continue the celebrations in the classrooms with cupcakes and crafts. BOES Principal Netra Taylor-Nichols is thankful to Kidsmart for its support. “It is an honor for Kidsmart to choose Barack Obama Elementary to celebrate its 15th birthday and to gift our students with school supplies and backpacks, I am grateful.”

Photo courtesy Hazelwood School District

Hazelwood West High School girls basketball player, Lakeita Chappel scored her 1,000th point Jan. 26 against Hazelwood East High School. Chappel was recognized with a short ceremony during the game and was presented with a plaque commemorating the accomplishment. West High went on to win 53-27.

Hazelwood third grade students get a lesson in charitable giving

Photo courtesy Hazelwood School District HSD Gifted Education students donate to HSD Bright Futures programs, a way to explore philanthropy and entrepreneurship in economics class.

www.VillaAtRiverwood.com

Third grade students in the Hazelwood School District get a lesson on philanthropy in their study of economics, as part of the GALACTIC/ Gifted Education program. “In the economics class we are preparing the GALACTIC students to be entrepreneurs,” said Michelle Binuyo, gifted education teacher. “We are exploring the act of philanthropy as we study entrepreneurship.” The third graders raised $385.90 selling products to other students at the Old Meets New Marketplace, held during December. Products were made and sold by students. Some of the products sold include, head bands, handmade necklaces, snow globes and PC game code books. “GALACTIC students are always trying to figure out how to help others and better their community, this is one of the examples of what they can accomplish,” said Binuyo. HSD social worker Raishelle Scott received the proceeds on behalf of Bright Futures. “The funds that the students donated will be used to assist HSD students and their families who may experience a crisis,” say Scott. GALACTIC is Hazelwood’s gifted program that provides special services to students in first through fifth grades living in the Hazelwood School District. The gifted program was established to meet the needs of those students who are highly capable academically, and need more rigorous intellectual challenge.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • February 8, 2017

Three Hazelwood students awarded George Washington Carver Scholarship Hazelwood East Seniors, Taylor Harmon, Alexis Glasby and Kam’Ron Battle were recently awarded the George Washington Carver (GWC) Scholarship to Iowa State University. The GWC scholarship is a full-tuition scholarship awarded to incoming multicultural first year students directly out of high school. Harmon, Glasby and Battle recently met with Iowa State faculty when they visited East High. Harmon plans to major in pre-veterinary, Glasby plans to pursue a major in athletic training, and Battle plans to major in electrical engineering. Hazelwood East College Counselor Sonya Smith was overjoyed to hear about the scholar-

ships these three students received. “These students received a valuable scholarship to one of the best universities in the country. They put in a lot of hard work to receive the GWC scholarship. I am proud of Taylor, Alexis and Kam’Ron,” said Smith. To be considered for the GWC, students must rank in the upper 25 percent of their high school class, have a 3.5 grade point average and present a minimum ACT composite score of 24 or minimum SAT score of 1100. Eligible students must identify as American Indian, Alaskan Native, African American, Asian American, Pacific Islander, Hispanic or Latino/a, or Multi-Racial on the application for undergraduate admission.

School

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Donations to the Jennings School District allows 700 students to view the new movie ‘Hidden Figures’ Thanks to the generosity of Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity, the St. Louis Trust Company, Maxine Clark and the Jennings Board of Education, over 700 students saw the new movie “Hidden Figures” and engaged in cultural and gender-based conversations about success in life. Sigma Pi Phi, which leads a speaker’s series and Big Brothers Big Sisters mentorship at Jennings Junior High School (JJH), rewarded students for making their highest achievement in attendance and academics. Sigma Pi Phi led the way by donating $3,000. The students viewed the movie in genderspecific cohorts of 200 females and 200 males. Students participated in conversations regarding achievement, tenacity and grid, the Jim Crow era, STEM and college and career pathways for success. Thanks to a $1,000 donation from the St. Louis Trust Company and Maxine Clark, a group of students from Jennings Senior High had the op-

portunity to view the film. The group consisted of members from the Women of Success Organization, Men on Business, My Brother’s Keeper and the College Prep Academy. Lastly, the Jennings School Board wanted to give a gift to students during the state-recognized Board Appreciation Week (Jan. 22 through 28); as such, they decided to support 200 elementary fifth and sixth graders to be a part of this event from the savings of reduced board travel and conference. Overall, 704 students and over 30 staff members viewed the movie “Hidden Figures” on Jan. 27 as well as on Feb. 3 at 24:1 Cinema in Pagedale. Through the donations of generous community leaders, the Jennings School District was able to fully fund an educational reward to students to see the new movie as well as engage in culturally relevant topics on pathways to college and career success offered at schools across Jennings and persevering for success despite the odds.

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Hazelwood principal fosters a collaborative community through home visits with parents Hazelwood School District (HSD) has set high academic expectations for student success. Those expectations, however, are also extended to families who have children attending schools in the district. One HSD principal has made his focal point to engage parents, family members and community members, to contribute to the academic successes of students. Chauncey Granger, principal at Hazelwood Southeast Middle School, stresses to teachers and staff the importance of parent involvement in a child’s education. Granger encourages teachers and staff members to make home visits in order to strengthen relationships with parents. “Many of our students are dealing with external factors that prevent them from excelling in school,” explained Granger. “Home visits allows a teacher the opportunity to get to the bottom of some those issues, and with that perspective we can began to build upon, and strengthen relationships with our students and parents.” To achieve this, Granger is partnering with a local nonprofit Home Works, a teacher home visit program founded by Karen Kalish. Kalish is a “serial social entrepreneur,” having started several businesses that focus on improving literacy, closing the academic, opportunity and achievement gaps and ending discrimination. Home Works provide teachers and other staff with in-depth training sessions that prepare them for potential challenges. The Home Works home visit program permits teachers and staff to meet with parents in more relaxed environments, including public places such as coffee shops, libraries and community centers.

Photo courtesy Hazelwood School District

“We want our parents to be as comfortable as possible during visits, so that we can build trust and understanding about the benefit of forming a partnership between teachers and parents is a commitment to student success in education,” said Granger. “Our goal is to continue to strengthen relationships with teachers and parents, and drive home the idea that student success in education is a community effort.” For Granger, partnering families with teachers for student success has led to an increase in student attendance, class participation and homework participation. “Here at Southeast Middle teachers and staff who are dedicated to partnering with parents have reported to me a 90 percent increase in homework participation as a result of the home visits,” said Granger.

www.stladhd.com

Sports

February 8, 2017 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

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Check ou

ection S n e d r a G & e m Ho in Classifieds page 15

I will be broadcasting the “STL Health and Wellness LIVE” show every Saturday from 9-11 am on 590 The Fan and 590TheFan.com

www.treesbywoody.net

Sports you see with Gary B... UMSL tallies 19 against top softball rivals The No. 22 ranked University of MissouriSt. Louis women’s softball team scored 19 runs in 10 innings of play recently picking up two victories at the Gulf Coast Invitational in Gulf Shores, Alabama. The Tritons (3-1) defeated Miles College, 9-1, and Barry, 10-1, both in five-inning shortened games. Senior Alex Stupek became the program’s alltime career leader in runs scored in the second game and has now crossed the plate 139 times, passing Jena Boudreau (2012-15) who scored 138 career runs. Go to www.UMSLTritons.com for more details. * One for the record books Be part of Cottleville’s parade by running The ninth annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade is March 11 and the run will take place prior to the parade, winding down highway N in Cottleville. Run Director Tom Smoot invites you to register online register online to beat the crowd. Go to www.StPatParade.org for all the details. * Buy those running shoes Ambush score ten to no avail The St. Louis Ambush had their highest-scoring game of the season recently at the US Cellular Arena in Cedar Rapids, but it still wasn’t enough to post a win. The Ambush dropped the contest 13-10 against the Rampage dropping their record to 1-15. Ambush Head Coach Tony Glavin was happy with the team’s scoring efforts, but disappointed

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in the outcome. “We fought hard and mounted a good comeback attempt in the second half but we also gave up silly goals and if you give up silly goals, you lose,” Glavin commented. * Back to the drawing board Women at Lindenwood score best for the season – again The Lady Lions gymnastics team collected a team score of 194.125 on Sunday in Denton, Texas, a tenth of a point better than last week’s season-best mark. The team also won four individual titles and defeated Texas Woman’s in a MIC dual. Lindenwood won the vault and beam in the dual meet, while the Pioneers won the bars and floor. The big difference came on the beam where the Lady Lions excelled. Kierstin Sokolowoski had a big afternoon for the Lady Lions, winning the vault and beam competitions. She tied for first on the vault and won on the beam with a fourth finish on the bars. Ryan Henry competed in the all-around for the first time in her career, and won that competition. She participated on the vault, bars, beam, and on the floor. The other individual winner for the Lady Lions was Katey Oswalt who captured the floor title. Her score tied for the best overall score in the event. Other top scores on the day included Aubree Horn on the bars and Breanna Franklin on the beam. Lindenwood has now won three straight competitions, and is 5-4 on the season. The Lady Lions will be in action next Friday at Missouri, in an event that also includes Iowa State and George Washington. * Thanks to Andrew P. Morris of Lindenwood Sports Information for the information Gary Baute, a St. Louis native, has hosted many radio shows from Health to Sports to Baby Boomer news. He was the EMCEE of the River City Rascals and St. Louis Swarm basketball team inaugural seasons and broadcasting for the indoor football teams over a decade. Has been writing sports since 1999 for the paper.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • February 8, 2017

Recipe: Love is in the air – every day! Chocolates? Roses? Been there, done that. Everyone wants to make sure the special someone in their lives knows how much they care. Here are some easy and fun ways to prove that he or she is number one in your book. Make a Playlist of “Your Songs” Whether it was playing when you first met or is the soundtrack to your favorite movie, every couple has songs that mean something special to them. In the car, leave a CD or MP3 player stocked with your most memorable tunes as a special surprise and a suddenly-better commute. Do the house chores. Seriously. Fix that item you’ve been saying you would fix forever. Empty the dishwasher and clean the bathroom. When they get home, have all the chores done, that way the only thing left to do is enjoy each other’s company. Put Pen to Paper Hide little notes with heartfelt sentiments on the refrigerator, on the nightstand, taped to the computer screen – any place they might stumble upon it throughout a typical day. Your note might be found after a long meeting or last-minute deadline, providing a moment of reprieve and happiness during a hectic day.

Learn & Play

SUDOKU: Fill in the blank squares in the grid, making sure that every row, column and 3-by-3 box includes all the digits 1 through 9.

Barefoot Bubbly Ruby Red Bliss Makes: 2 servings

Ingredients: 3 ounces cranberry juice 1/2 ounce lime juice 6 ounces Barefoot Red Moscato Champagne 2 skewer cranberries for garnish Directions: Place chilled juices in flutes. Top with Barefoot Bubbly Red Moscato. Garnish with cranberries.

Raise a Glass and Indulge – Together Toast each other with some tasty treats. Pop some bubbly, then enjoy mixing these recipes together. For more delicious and romantic wines and recipes, visit www.barefootwines.com.

Sweetheart Dark Chocolate Brownies Prep: 20 minutes | Cook: 25 minutes | Makes: 10+ servings

Ingredients: For the brownies: 1/2 cup butter, cut into pieces 4 ounces dark chocolate, chopped 2 eggs, at room temperature 3/4 cup white sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

after each addition.

For the glaze: 2 ounces semisweet chocolate 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

While brownies are baking, melt together semisweet chocolate and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter for the glaze. Once melted, set aside.

Directions: Preheat the oven to 350°F. In small pot over low heat, melt 1/2 cup of butter and 4 ounces of dark chocolate together until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, and whisk to combine

Add sugar and vanilla and stir to combine. Add flour, cocoa powder and salt and stir until smooth. Transfer batter into a 9 x 9 aluminum foil lined baking pan and place it into the oven for 25 minutes and bake until done.

When brownies are done, let them cool. Once cooled, drizzle glaze over brownies, and spread it on top using an offset spatula.

See solution on page 13

Crossword Puzzle – Theme: Black History Month ACROSS 1. a.m. slice 6. “____ humbug!” 9. French Sudan, today 13. Opposite of bonjour 14. *Jesse Owens’ team 15. Take exception to 16. Brightest star in Cygnus 17. Snowmobile runner 18. On the rocks 19. Highest level 21. *”Hidden ____,” movie (2016) 23. ____ Luis Obispo 24. Goes with rave 25. Scepter’s partner 28. Heat in a microwave 30. Greek poet from Lesbos 35. Road shoulder 37. Irritate 39. Lively olden-day dance 40. Diva’s delivery 41. *Public ____ hip hop group 43. Wild ox of India 44. Tropical smoothie flavor 46. Charades, e.g. 47. ____ Pound, poet 48. Chest pain 50. Pop group “’N ____” 52. Mary Kay’s last name 53. A long walk 55. To boot 57. *Emancipation Proclamation President 61. *Dodgers’ Rookie of the Year in 1947 64. Perfect 65. Lennon’s wife 67. Hop-drying kilns 69. Facial growth 70. “Is,” no longer 71. Express a thought 72. Fill beyond full 73. Indefinite degree 74. Seventh month of Hebrew calendar DOWN 1. Little bit 2. Lyric poem, pl. 3. Hokkaido native 4. “____ Like Old Times” 5. *Railroad conductor 6. Portrait sculpture 7. Pose a question 8. Israeli port

9. Carte du jour 10. Gulf V.I.P. 11. Playwright Clare Booth ____ 12. Wraths 15. Soldier’s ID 20. Habituate 22. Opposite of outs 24. News announcement to the press 25. *44th President 26. Was rebroadcast 27. Carry something 29. *Espoused civil disobedience 31. 1950s pin-up Bettie 32. Eloise’s residence 33. Meryl Streep’s “The ____”(2002) 34. *Philanthropist Winfrey 36. Gaspar, Balthasar and Melchior 38. *Harry Belafonte, first African-Ameri-

can to win one (1960) 42. Gossipmonger 45. Wait on a phone 49. Be unwell 51. Pupa’s shelter 54. “Little ____ fact” 56. Giraffe’s cousin 57. “Mad ____” word game 58. Lightbulb over head? 59. Whiskey without water 60. Nurse’s attention 61. *____ Gibson, “the black Babe Ruth” 62. a.k.a. The Islamic State 63. Europe’s highest volcano 66. *1831 slave rebellion leader 68. *Obama before becoming President See answers on page 13

What’s Happening

February 8, 2017 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Send your event to editor@mycnews.com and we'll print it! EVENTS Feb. 8: Karaoke

Karaoke at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information contact 314-831-6121.

Feb. 9: Fundraising event

Saint Louis Crisis Nursery invites you to Eat. Shop. Love. from 5 to 7 p.m. at Plaza Frontenac’s North Court outside of Saks Fifth Avenue. Kicking off the event will be Honorary Chair, Y98’s Sherry Farmer. The event is free and benefits Crisis Nursery mothers. Guests are invited to donate new or gently used handbags, and guests are asked to fill them with lotions, sanitizers, toiletries, gas cards and other items our mothers may not be able to afford. New this year, they will be collecting jewelry and accessories… necklaces, bracelets, sunglasses and scarves. Last year over 300 purses were collected, all of which were shared throughout the year with moms who are working so hard to create longterm stability for their children. As a bonus, each purse donated enters you to win a new Kate Spade bag (valued at over $200). You must be present to win raffle items. There will be discounts at several stores that evening and raffle drawings every 30 minutes and complimentary appetizers by BRIO. For more information and to RSVP, please visit www.crisisnurserykids.org.

Feb. 10: Chicken fried steak or meatloaf dinner

Chicken fried steak or meatloaf dinner at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information contact 314-831-6121.

Feb 10: Senior citizen Valentine dinner/dance

A Senior citizen Valentine dinner/

dance will take place from 5 – 9 p.m. at the James J. Eagan Center in Florissant. Start with a dinner of roasted sliced pork with rosemary gravy, baby buttered potatoes, country green beans with bacon, garden salad with creamy peppercorn dressing, rolls and butter and cherry pie. Dance the night away or sit and listen to all your favorite tunes performed by Rocky & Michelle. Ticket sales are open to residents and non-residents and are available in the Senior Office in Florissant City Hall through Feb. 7. Tickets for Florissant residents are $12 and non-residents are $15 which include admission, dinner and light snacks. Beer, wine and soda will be available for purchase. There will be no ticket sales at the door. Call the senior office at 314-839-7605 for more information.

Feb. 11: Flea market

Flea market at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. To reserve a table or info contact the post at 314-8316121.

Feb. 11: Breakfast

Breakfast at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 8 to 10 a.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information contact 314-831-6121.

Feb. 13: Bake sale

Bridgeton seniors are having a bake sale from 9 a.m. till sold out at 4201 Fee Fee Rd. For more information call 314-739-5572.

Feb. 15: Karaoke

Karaoke at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information contact 314-831-6121.

Feb. 16: Blood pressure check

Free blood pressure check at Life Care Center of Florissant at 1201 Garden

Plaza Dr.(off Parker Rd.) in Florissant. Call 831-3752 for more information.

Feb. 17: Pork steak dinner

Pork steak dinner at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information contact 314-8316121.

Feb. 17: Bingo

Bingo will take place from 2 – 3 p.m. at Life Care Center of Florissant at 1201 Garden Plaza Dr. (off Parker Rd.) in Florissant. Call 831-3752 for more information.

Feb. 18: Christian Hospital Heart Fair

Christian Hospital Heart Fair will take place in the Christian Hospital Detrick Building – Atrium from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. (Registration closes at 11 a.m.) Space is limited and registration is requested, so call 314-747-WELL (9355) and register today. Get ready to laugh with the hilarious “Siren of Stress” that young and old (and everyone in between) just can’t resist –Loretta LaRoche. She is an internationally acclaimed stress management and humor consultant, devoted to raising the humor potential in all of us and helping to teach us how stress relief can reduce the risk of heart disease. Come out and learn how to recognize the signs and symptoms of a stroke from neurologist Carlos Yu, MD. Then, cardiologist Aaron Dimmitt, MD, will educate you on heart disease and what you can do to help prevent it, followed by Sue Hofmann, nurse practitioner and certified diabetes educator, who will give you the 411 on diabetes. Make plans to attend this free event that features: free screenings for cholesterol, glucose and blood pressure, a guided tour of the CH Surgery Center, informational displays, ask the experts, stress and heart disease information, refreshments and much more.

Feb. 18: Art exhibit and sale

The Christian Hospital Foundation is hosting an art exhibit and sale from 1 8 p.m. in Professional Building 1, Suite 300N at 11133 Dunn Rd. Wine and hors d’oeuvres will be served. Business casual attire is requested. Please RSVP by Feb. 15 to mindy.copp@bjc. org or 314-653-4410. Sale proceeds will benefit the Christian Hospital Foundation to fund efforts such as patient care, advancing medicine and technology, community benefit pro-

Business Spotlight A place to find out a little more about your local businesses!

grams and staff education. The exhibit and sale is being held in partnership with Golden Galleries & Art by Golden and features more than 150 pieces on exhibit and for sale by the following artists: Ametria Stamps, Najee Dorsey, Richard Mayhew, James Denmark, Elizabeth Catlett, Sam Gilliam, Paul Goodnight, George Hunt, Thomas Lockhart, Kevin Williams, Alonzo Adams, Charly Palmer, Charles Bibbs, William Tolliver and many more.

Feb. 20: Film screening

The media presentation “One AAUW – Changing the Climate” will be shown at the February meeting of the Ferguson-Florissant (North County) AAUW meeting. The video reviews the current and upcoming initiatives and programs of AAUW, including work on STEM activities for women, pay equity initiatives and AAUW’s extensive grant and fellowship programs. The American Association of University Women meeting will be at 10 a.m. in the Educational Building of Immanuel UCC Church at 211 Church Street in Ferguson. The program is free and open to the public. For more information call 314-5220413, 314-831-5359 or 314-831-6884.

Feb. 20: Free skate session

The city of Florissant is hosting a free skate session for its residents from 2 – 4 p.m. If you have always wanted to skate or if you are a regular, this is the perfect opportunity to get out on the ice. Come with your friends or family. Non-residents are welcome to participate by paying the non-resident rate. Remember to bring your current Florissant resident card to get in for free. There will be free popcorn and soda for all in attendance.

Feb. 21: Veterans town hall meeting

Veterans, service-members, National Guard, Reservist and family members are invited to participate in a town hall meeting scheduled for 5 p.m. at VFW Post 3944 in the Bingo Hall (top of the hill) at 10815 Midland Blvd. in St. Louis. The town hall will serve as an open forum for all service members and a listening session for VA leadership, with the goal of ensuring veterans, their families, and beneficiaries have the opportunity to be heard, and have their concerns addressed by senior VA officials. Representatives from the St. Louis VA Regional Office will be in attendance to provide information on benefits and offer claims assistance. A representa-

tive from Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery Administration will also be in attendance to answer questions and offer assistance. The town hall is open to the public, including veterans, family members, or other beneficiaries, as well as, congressional stakeholders, Veterans Service Organizations (VSO), Non-Governmental Organizations and community partners. The Department of Veterans Affairs will hold a concurrent resource fair and will have individuals on site to answer questions about health care eligibility, applying for benefits, information on mental health services, burial benefits and much more.No registration is required and the event is free to attend.

Feb. 22: Karaoke

Karaoke at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information contact 314-831-6121.

Feb. 24: Chicken dinner

Chicken dinner at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information contact 314-8316121.

Feb. 24: Choral singers

Ladies! Do you enjoy singing? Having fun? Women’s a cappella chorus would love to share their music with new singers! All parts welcome. For more information contact the St. Louis Chordinals at 314-780-2322.

March 3: Women leaders lunch

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis will hold its annual women leaders lunch, Table for Four, from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Chase Park Plaza. An individual ticket is $125, the cost to host a table is $500. In its history, St. Louis area women leaders, the Table for Four committee and sponsors have raised over $270,000 to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis mission and the young women aided by its programs. Proceeds from this event support activities and experiences designed to help girls develop healthy lifestyles, positive self-esteem and make good decisions. Over 200 guests are expected to attend. Event co-chairs are Adella Jones (Centene Corporation) and May Scheve Reardon (Missouri Lottery). And, Carol Daniel (KMOX) will serve as the emcee. For more information, visit www. bgcstl.org.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • February 8, 2017 March 4: Bunco tournament

Soroptimist International of Greater St. Louis will hold its annual “Ladies Night Out” Bunco Tournament at Florissant JFK Center at 315 Howdershell in Florissant. Table sponsorships are available for $50. The price per player is $25. Wine, beer, soda and water will be provided. Players are welcome to bring their own food and beverages. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and Bunco starts at 7 p.m. There will be a 50/50 raffle and cash prizes for the winners. Proceeds from the Bunco Tournament benefit local women and children’s charities. Additional information is available at http://www.soroptimiststlouis.com/. Questions can be sent to info@soroptimiststlouis. com.

March 18: Fundraiser gala

The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, St. Louis Chapter (AAFASTL) will hold its signature gala, Orchid AAFAir at the Four Seasons Hotel. The event will feature a live and silent auction, dinner, program presentation and an awards ceremony. AAFA-STL will honor Susan Stith, Vice President of Diversity, Inclusion & Corporate Giving at Express Scripts, and Robert Fruend Jr., Chief Executive Officer of St. Louis Regional Health Commission, with this year’s “Orchid Award,” for their steadfast commitment and service to the organization and St. Louis community. Our AAFA-STL Board President & Partner at Deloitte, Brett Johnson and his wife Theresa Johnson, along with Kevin V. Roberts, Senior Vice President & CFO of BJC Healthcare, will serve as co-chairs for this event. Funds raised from the gala will help support AAFA-STL’s life-saving programs. For tickets and other information, please visit http://aafastl.org/orchid.

April 1: Fundraising banquet

Ferguson Youth Initiative’s “All Hands In” Banquet will be hosted at the Norwood Hills Country Club (at 1 Norwood Hills Country Club Dr. in St. Louis County). The cost to attend is $50 per adult, or $30 per teen and college student. Each annual banquet creates and opportunity to showcase youth’s involvement, and to share their ideas with the broader community. Businesses and organizations interested in sponsoring this event can www.fyifergyouth.org for an information packet and registration. Anyone needing more information can contact FYI’s executive director, Aaron M. Harris, at 314.749.5379, or e-mail him at aaron@fyifergyouth.org.

April 14: Fish Fry

American Legion Post 444 in Florissant Valley will host a fish fry every Friday from Jan. 27 until April 14.

April 15: Meat shoots

The Florissant Eagles Meat Shoots take place every Saturday from Feb. 11 through April 15. It will run from noon until dusk. They are located at 15245 New Halls Ferry Rd in Florissant. No bull barrels. For more information call the Florissant Eagles at 314-8383470.

RECURRING EVENTS Weekdays: Food pantry volunteers needed The Harvey Kornblum Jewish Food Pantry is in need of ongoing adult volunteers to sort food, stock shelves and shop with clients. Two-to-four hour shifts are available, Monday-Friday 8:45 a.m.3:45 p.m. To learn more or to join this fun group, contact Chelsey Banaskavich at 314-513-1674 or cbanaskavich@jfcs-stl.org. Weekdays: Volunteer drivers The St. Louis County Older Resident Programs need volunteer

drivers who live in St. Louis County to give a few hours during the day to provide transportation to and from doctor’s appointments for our senior residents of St. Louis County that lives near you! No weekends and mileage reimbursement is available. Call today at 314-615-4516. Mondays: A cappella singers

All men who like to sing are invited to come sing with us, The Men of Harmony. We practice every Monday night at 7 p.m. at 5500 Parker Road which is the first house on Uthe Lane. We sing four-part harmony a capella (without accompaniment ). We sing some traditional songs, as well as show tunes and more contemporary music. We do perform for the public at various functions. Persons interested can come right on in or for more information call Al at 314-993-6134.

Tuesdays: Choir rehearsals

The St. Louis Chordinals, a women’s a cappella chorus, rehearse every Tuesday evening from 7 - 9:30 p.m. at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church at 12397 Natural Bridge Rd. in Bridgeton (next to the Bridgeton Government Center). For more information call Linda at 314-839-3495 or visit stlouischordinals.org.

Tuesdays: Lung cancer support group

The Lung Cancer Networking Group is open to anyone affected by lung cancer and meets at Christian Hospital at 11133 Dunn Rd. every second Tuesday of the month from 6 - 7:30 p.m. in Room 2100. No RSVP required. Christian Hospital has partnered with the Cancer Support Community of Greater St. Louis to provide this group meeting. Drop-in to the monthly meetings to discuss, ask questions and learn how others manager side effects, symptoms and the day-to-day of cancer. Connect with other care partners who are learning about cancer and how it impacts their friends and family members. Share and hear stories from others who “get it.” Discover the power of group support when you meet with a licensed facilitator, other people (family, friends, patients) affected by a cancer diagnosis.

Tuesdays: TOPS (Take off pounds sensibly)

From 9:15 - 10:30 a.m. located at John F. Kennedy Center/Henry Koch Ctr., Howdershell Rd. at Charbonier Rd., Florissant. For more info contact Paul or Connie McConnell, 314-831-5476.

Every 4th Tuesday of the month: Fort Bellefontaine Memorial American Legion Post 335 meeting 6:30pm, Fort Bellefontaine Memorial American Legion Post 335, 800 Chambers Road in Bellefontaine Neighbors. Those interested in membership are invited to attend.

Every Tuesday: Bingo Evening at Florissant Elks Lodge #2316

Doors at 4:30pm, games begin at 6pm, Florissant Elks Lodge #2316, 16400 New Halls Ferry Rd. in Florissant. For more information, call 314.921.2316.

Wednesdays: Are you interested in losing weight?

Check out TOPS #361 Florissant group of supportive ladies. Meetings are on Wednesday mornings beginning at 9:15 am at Florissant Church of Christ, 16460 New Halls Ferry Rd. in Florissant. If interested, please contact Shirley at 314-895-3528 for more information.

Every Wednesday: Bingo Morning at Florissant Elks Lodge #2316

Florissant Elks Lodge #2316, 16400 New Halls Ferry Rd. in Florissant. Doors at 7:30am, games begin at

9:30am. For more information, call 314.921.2316.

Bridgeton Trails Library Branch Programs:

3455 McKelvey Rd., St. Louis, 314.994.3300. Story Time: Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. 9 months to 2 yrs. Room 1 (Lap Time); Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. Ages 3–5. Room 2; Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. Ages 3–5. Room 1.

Florissant Senior Citizens’ Bingo Clubs: 314.839.7604. Every 1st Wednesday of the Month: Stroke Support Group

3-4pm, Center for Senior Renewal, Detrick Building 1st floor, 11133 Dunn Rd. For more information, contact Jamie Stevens at 314.653.5331.

Thursdays: Blood pressure checks

Free blood pressure checks monthly at Life Care Center of Florissant at 1201 Garden Plaza Dr. (off Parker Rd.) in Florissant every third Thursday of the month. Call 831-3752 for more information.

Thursdays: meeting

Women’s

chorus

Every Thursday City Voices Chorus, a women’s chorus singing four-part a cappella harmony, meets at Church of the Good Shepherd at 1166 S. Mason Rd. in St. Louis. Members come from the entire bi-state region. Call Marcia at 636-274-0723 for more information or visit www.cityvoiceschorus.org.

Every Friday: Our Lady of Fatima #4429 Knights of Columbus Bingo 6:45pm, Knights of Columbus Hall, 1216 Teson Rd. in Hazelwood. For more information call 314.731.9330

Every 3rd Friday of the month: Bingo

2pm, Life Care Center of Florissant, 1201 Garden Plaza Dr. For more information, call 314.831.3752.

Fridays: Celebrate Recovery

For 25 years Celebrate Recovery has been helping everyday folks find freedom from whatever difficulty you are experiencing in your life. This Christcentered, 12-step program is based on the Beatitudes. We meet every Friday at 6:15 p.m. for dinner ($5); 7 p.m. large group meeting; 8 p.m. Small groups sharing; 9 p.m. dessert at First

What’s Happening

Christian Church of Florissant at 2890 Patterson Rd. in Florissant. For more information call 314-837-2269 or visit http://www.fccf.org/ or Facebook page Celebrate Recovery-FCCF.

Ferdinand Shrine

Saturdays: Grief support group

Sundays: meeting

A Way with Words Grief Support Ministry meets the fourth Saturday each month at Community Christ Fellowship (in the rear) at121 Williams Blvd. in Hazelwood from 12:30 - 2:30 p.m. For more information contact Pat Ryan at 314-605-3949.

Every Fourth Saturday’s Writer’s Workshop 10 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. at Baden Library, at 8448 Church Rd. For more information call 314-388-2400.

Sundays: Meat shoot

Come and enjoy the meat shoots at American Legion Post 444 located on 17090 Old Jamestown Road between Sinks Rd and Lindbergh starting at noon until dusk every Sunday in February and March in the spring and every Sunday in October through the second-to-last week in November in the fall - rain or shine. Great meat prizes awarded. Sundays: AMVETS meat shoot Sundays in September through April, AMVETS Post 55, located on 8842 Natural Bridge Rd. in Bel-Ridge will be hosting meat shoots with practice beginning at 11 a.m. and rounds starting at noon. Shooters must be 18 or older and will shoot #9’s with no bull barrels or scopes and 675 minimum chokes. The shooting area is indoors and food and drink are available in the club room. For more information, contact 314-630-2671 or 314-330-7269.

#1 Rue St. Francois St., Florissant, 1 – 4pm, through October. Donations accepted. Docents needed. 314.921.7582, vicray01@aol.com

Jennings

Do-Dads

The Jennings Do-Dads hold meetings every third Sunday of the month (except June which is the second Sunday and no meeting in December) at 1 p.m. at Classics Bar & Grill at 11601 West Florissant Avenue. Those interested in membership are invited to attend. For more information visit www.jenningsdodads.org.

CHURCH Tuesdays & Thursdays: Chapel of the Cross Lutheran Church GriefShare Support Group

Tuesdays from 2 - 4pm and Thursday from 6:30 - 8:30pm, 11645 Benham Rd., 314.741.3737

HEALTH

Every Mon. & Tues.: Healthy Meal Replacement (HMR) Program Orientation

Mondays: 6–7pm Tuesdays: Noon– 1pm SSM DePaul Wellness Center. Attend a free orientation to learn: the Five Success Variables needed to lose weight, different diet options available and how important physical activity really is. Please call to register at 1.877.477.6954.

Every Monday-Friday: Evening Front Desk Volunteers Needed

Every Sunday: Tours at Old St.

4-7pm, Christian Hospital, 1225 Graham Rd. in Florissant. For more information, please contact Lee Shields at 314.653.5032.

SUDOKU answers from page 11

CROSSWORD answers from page 11

February 8, 2017 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

HELP WANTED

www.delmargardens.com/careers

STATEWIDE CLASSIFIEDS

NOVENA PRAYER TO ST. JUDE May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world, now and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus, Pray for us. St. Jude, Worker of Miracles, Pray for us. St. Jude, Helper of the Hopeless, Pray for us. Say this prayer 9 times a day for 9 days, then publish. Your prayers will be answered. It has never been known to fail. Thank you, St. Jude. R.H.

SERVICES PET CEMETERY

over 2,500 pet burials; over 6 acres; over 40 yrs old. 314-576-3030 www.memoryparkpetcemetery.info www.memoryparkpetcemetery.info

www.everyonebenefits.com/GaryB

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • February 8, 2017

LIEN SALE

CLASSIFIEDS

www.cozyhomecleaners.org

www.scrubbydutch.com

www.treesbywoody.net

www.HomeWashersStl.com

February 8, 2017 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Movie

Oscar Watch 2017

By Steve Bryan

Did Meryl Streep really need to be nominated again? There are some actors and actresses that elevate just about any movie to a new level. For the most part, Meryl Streep falls into that category, turning in memorable performances in the heartbreaking biopic “Silkwood” as well as the amusing “It’s Complicated.” Her work in “The Devil Wears Prada” embodies every horrific boss that ever appeared on screen or in a real-life office. The actress has also been honored with multiple Academy Award nominations, taking home three statues over the years; the Golden Globes have also been appreciative of her talents. Streep’s 20th Oscar nomination this year for “Florence Foster Jenkins,” however, is a huge mistake. While the subject matter is fascinating and Streep does a credible job in the title role, this is an extremely tedious film. In real life, Jenkins was a wealthy socialite with dreams of becoming a great singer. Though blessed with ambition and desire, her singing voice was, by many accounts, painful to endure. Still, thanks to her generous donations to the arts, Jenkins was able to perform in many venues, including a final concert at Carnegie Hall. To her credit, Streep captures the passion of Florence Foster Jenkins throughout the film. Yet, Hugh Grant, as Jenkins’ long-time companion St. Clair Bayfield, turns in a much more compelling performance than Streep. Bayfield created a fantasy world for Jenkins, allowing her to fulfill her dreams without cold reality creeping in. Whether those actions were kind or cruel is still hard to determine. “Florence Foster Jenkins” might be

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worth adding to a Netflix queue but, like the title character, it is not Streep’s best work. Unquestionably the actress has abundant talent, making Miranda Priestly an extremely delicious cinematic villain in “The Devil Wears Prada.” As Sister Aloysius Beauvier in “Doubt,” she is positively chilling confronting a priest over his relationship with a young student. To be brutally honest, Streep’s competition in the Best Actress category is far more worthy this year. Coming off several noteworthy performances, Emma Stone is an odds-on favorite for her work in “La La Land.” Stone has worked hard and brought her A-game to this charming musical, which resonates strongly with every Hollywood hopeful. It would be a crime if Streep took this one away from Stone simply because she is a Hollywood icon. Meryl Streep continues to surprise and amaze movie lovers, but she doesn’t always have to have a turn at bat, especially not for such a disappointment as “Florence Foster Jenkins.” Stone deserves the gold this year; Streep does not. Photos courtesy 20th Century Fox 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.