CN: April 16 ,2014

April 16, 2014

Storm-Chasing Contractors Recipes

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Get Together and Grill

Around Town

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Operation Christmas Child

School

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Teen Talent Competition Finalists

A severely damaged Bridgeton home is the result of the June 2013 tornado.

Photo courtesy of the BBB

Tips on how to avoid unlicensed or storm-chasing contractors this storm season With strong storms sweeping across the Midwest and causing heavy damage in some areas, Better Business Bureau (BBB) warns consumers to be on the lookout for unlicensed or storm-chasing contractors seeking to cash in on the damage.

Fly-by-night contractors often go door to door after storms, offering to help victims clear debris or patch up homes. BBB handled 6,918 complaints against general contractors nationwide in the last year, including 525 in eastern Missouri and southern Illinois. In addition, BBB received 9,097 complaints against roofers, including 339 in eastern Missouri and southern Illinois.

After previous storms, BBB has taken complaints about contractors who took deposits from consumers and did little or

no work. Some couldn’t be reached when consumers wanted refunds or were dissatisfied with the repairs. BBB has issued several warnings against individual roofers who took consumers’ money but did little or no work.

Michelle Corey, BBB President and CEO, advises consumers to check businesses out with BBB before writing a check. BBB Business Reviews give consumers vital information about how companies operate and whether they respond to complaints.

“Homeowners need to be sure that a contractor will honor promises and not just take their money and run,” Corey said. “Consumers need to make sure that the contractors are qualified and reliable See STORM-CHASING CONTRACTORS page 2

Learn & Play Beat Allergy Season

The Grand Budapest Hotel photo courtesy of Fox Searchlight Pictures

Movie FREE Online Subscription at mycnews.com

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April 16, 2014 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

Vol. 93 No. 16

In This Issue...

Around Town Local news and events like Hazelwood’s Eggstravangza and one-stop access to autism resources at Ackerman School in Florissant.

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Business Business Showcase a success with over 900 in attendance and the SBA will host a free seminar in Ferguson for aspiring entrepreneurs.

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School Pattonville High teacher and students are featured on Behind the Minds, and education news show and the Ferguson-Florissant STEM expo a was a huge success.

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Learn & Play Book Buzz, Sudoku and Community Toons 8

Movie The set pieces and Tony Revolori are the only things about The Grand Budapest Hotel that 10 deserve a recommendation.

Sports Local sport authority Gary B fills you in on the 11 weekend’s sporting events.

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Recipes Get together and Grill

What’s Happening the only events calendar you need to stay 14 entertained all week long 16

Classifieds Over the Fence Joe Morice is to Community News readers what Wilson was to Tim Taylor: enjoy a fresh perspective from our in-house blue-collar philosopher.

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

STORM-CHASING CONTRACTORS before they sign a contract or pay any money.”

BBB tips for consumers and businesses looking for contractors to make repairs: • Be cautious of door-to-door salespeople who use high-pressure sales tactics.

• Check with your insurance carrier before making major repairs. An adjuster may need to assess the damage, and the carrier may have recommendations for repairs or contractors.

• Seek at least three bids from prospective contractors based on the same specifications, materials and labor needed to complete the project.

• Ask whether the company is insured against claims covering workers’ compensation, property damage and personal liability in case of accidents. Consumers should obtain the name of the insurance carrier and call to verify coverage.

• Ask whether the contractor meets licensing and bonding requirements set by the state, county or city.

• Find out whether permits are needed before proceeding with the work. The contractor also should be aware of any required permits.

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• Ask whether the contractor will provide a lien waiver upon completion of the job. A lien waiver is a statement by the contractor that all suppliers and subcontractors have been paid for their work.

• Read and understand the contract before signing. Get any verbal promises in writing.

• Include start and completion dates in the contract.

• Remember the rule of thirds. Pay one third at the start of the project, one third when work is 50 percent completed and one third after completion.

A BBB video on hiring contractors is available at www.youtu.be/PBn5M8_RkP0.

For more information to help you make smart, informed decisions about projects around your home, check with BBB by going online to www. bbb.org or by calling 314.645.3300.

Before you do business with a charity or company, check its BBB Business Review at www. bbb.org or by calling 314.645.3300.

Around Town Young Card Makers Needed to Create a Smile If you know a 9 to 15-year-old who would be interested in sharing a smile, this may be a good opportunity. BJC Hospice at 1935 Beltway, Overland, MO, is providing times for younger helpers to get together for a “greeting card-making” party. The project is part of the campaign named “Samantha’s Gift,” an ongoing mission to provide comfort items to BJC Hospice patients. Young people will have a chance to meet others and to learn the joy of volunteering, while having fun at this easy project. Two hours of service credit will

be documented for those that would like them.

The greeting cards will be taken by our BJC Hospice staff to patients facing a terminal illness in a nursing home or at home. Hospice employees and volunteers report how receiving a bright, happy card makes such a difference to the patient.

The creation is easy. The gathering is fun. The time can be documented as volunteering for a cause for any volunteer hours that students may need.

Parties are offered on May 17, June 7 and July 12 and Sunday June 22, July 20 and August 10 from 3-5:30pm.

This BJC Home Care Services building is reached off I-170 taking the Page exit east to the left turn just before QT onto Beltway. The child needs to bring a pair of scissors, but all other card-making supplies will be provided.

If interested, the child must pre-register by e-mailing Marsha Shanker, BJC hospice volunteer, at marsha.shanker@ sbcglobal.net to be sent an application. She will ask which date(s) the youngster would like to help. Help is needed at one, any or all of the parties.

Both boys and girls can help.

www.stlcompost.com

www.mycnews.com • Community News • April 16, 2014

Florissant Electronic Recycle Event a Success

Mayor Schneider recycling a computer component with an employee from Midwest Recycle Center.

According to Mayor Thomas P. Schneider of Florissant, this year’s electronic recycle event was another success. An overflow of residents came to the event to recycle broken and unneeded electronic devices which included TVs, computer equipment, stereos and household appliances.

The electronic recycling event was held from 9am-2pm on Saturday, April 5 in the rear parking lot of St. Ferdinand Park. The Mayor thanks all of the residents who came out and would like to thank Midwest Recycling Center for co-sponsoring the event.

Midwest Recycling Center staffed the event with their employees and provided the necessary equipment which helped to make this event another success.

Around Town

$9,558 Raised During American Heart Association’s “Red Hearts” Campaign First Bank employees at all Missouri (46) and Illinois branches (20), as well as employees from First Bank’s Hazelwood, Missouri Operation Center helped raise $9,558 in February as part of the American Heart Association’s “Red Hearts” Campaign.

“We want to thank our employees, customers and everyone in their respective communities who participated in this important campaign,” said Joe Ambrose, First From left to right, Lindsay Firestone, Heart Walk director, St. Louis, First Bank’s Stacy Gauch, Terri Hogg, Bank president, St. Louis Darlene Boyer, Irene Wright, Carrie Mackey and Ana Maria Longwell.

Region, who helped cowas Lindsay Firestone, Heart Walk Director, St. ordinate the initiative with the American Heart Louis.

Association. “Their commitment was great in fighting two of this country’s biggest killers – heart disease and stroke.”

All proceeds from the campaign will benefit the American Heart Association. On hand for the check presentation at First Bank’s Swansea, Illinois office

Hazelwood Eggstravaganza The Hazelwood Parks and Recreation Division is making Easter a fun experience for the young and eager egg hunters. A total of five age-separated hunts are being offered for kids under 10. A total of two Easter egg hunts are being offered for kids on April 19. The Easter Bunny has been busy at Valley Industries Sheltered Workshop overseeing the production of Easter eggs for both events with 14,000 ready for use at the Easter Eggstravaganza alone.

The most popular egg hunt that Hazelwood sponsors every year is the Easter Eggstravaganza, which is for kids ages 10 and under. This year’s event is set for Saturday, April 19, at White Birch Park. The admission is free and open to the public. Starting time is exactly at 10am Hazelwood’s Parks and Recreation staff will be scattering over 14,000 eggs throughout the park, and roping off the area into five sections for the following age groups: under 24 months; ages 2-3; ages 4-5; ages 6-7; and ages 8-10. One girl bike and one boy bike will be raffled off for each age group immediately after the hunt.

The Easter Bunny will be there to greet the kids, give out candy, and pose for photos with them.

In addition, the Piwacket Children’s Theater will present Three Little Pigs, a story about cooperation, in the Hazelwood Community Center gymnasium after the event is over.

For more information on both Easter egg hunts, contact the City of Hazelwood’s Parks and Recreation Office at 314.731.0980.

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These kids in the Ages 4-5 Division started out quickly collecting their eggs after the siren sounded during Hazelwood’s Easter Eggstravaganza. The City’s Parks and Recreation staff plans to hide over 14,000 eggs in White Birch Park this year, which will be roped off for five different age groups.

www.rhf.org

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Around Town

April 16, 2014 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

The Swing of Hearts and River City Ramblers Dixieland Band to Close Florissant Fine Arts Council Season The Swing of Hearts is the title of an upcoming “Romantical” evening of heart-felt song with Wayne Coniglio leading St. Louis’ finest 35 piece studio orchestra, featuring Cecil Cope from Memphis and St. Louis’ own Elsie Parker. They will appear in tandem with special guest Bob Ceccarini and the River City Ramblers. The Swing of Hearts Orchestra was founded by Cecil Cope and Wayne Coniglio to continue the spirit of the American Studio Orchestra which was so prevalent throughout the 20th century.

Audience members will fall in love all over again with the help of former Ray Charles band member and contributing arranger band leader Wayne Coniglio, who is fulfilling his dream of leading a studio orchestra featuring much of his writing. Wayne is a top player/ writer producer in St. Louis and is delighted to have his best colleagues performing in the orchestra. Cecil Cope is a member of The Jorrells, an eight piece rhythm and blues group. While pop music has been the musical center of Cecil Cope’s performances, his teenage years were filled with big band music such as Harry James, Al Hirt and Dizzy Gillespie to name just a few. Elsie Parker has been casting a spell on audiences with her voice and instrumental skills for over twenty years as leader of her band, The Poor People of Paris. Elsie has been a member of the Muny Orchestra since 2000. Elsie is a classically trained clarinetist, having recordings on Centaur Records. Joining in the fun will be The River City Gamblers, trumpeter, Bob Ceccarini, David “Red” Lehr, a most amazing tuba player and Patrick Joyce, who started playing the piano at the age of 4. Rounding out the group on the drums is Joe Buerger, Scott Alberici on clarinet known for his wonderful Dixieland style and last but not least is Bobby Grimm on the banjo.

Applause/Applause provides eight entertaining evenings of unforgettable music, theatre or dance programming ranging from magnificent classics to legendary hits and innovative contemporary shows, all presented in the beautiful and comfortable Florissant Civic Center Theatre. The Swing of Hearts on April 26, 8pm marks the last performance for this year. Tickets are $28 for adults and $26 for seniors and students. Call the box office at 314.921.5678 for tickets and information or visit www.florissantfinearts.com.

Christian Hospital Foundation Golf Outing set for June 9 The Christian Hospital Foundation is hosting their 4th Annual Golf Outing on Monday, June 9, at Glen Echo Country Club. The day includes lunch, on-course refreshments and games, and an awards reception with cocktails and dinner immediately after play.

Proceeds from the outing will help the foundation continue in its mission to provide compassionate care and clinical excellence to more than 160,000 patients who visit Christian Hospital

Local Operation Christmas Child Team Building Meeting Scheduled During the recent 2013 campaign St. Louis residents joined a 10-county St Louis & Eastern Missouri team to fill 50,771 empty shoeboxes with toys, school supplies and hygiene items. In an effort to increase the number of shoeboxes, Operation Christmas Child (OCC) is forming more local teams.

Vicki Stamps, area coordinator for the new St. Louis Area Team, invites St. Louis residents to attend a get-together on from 3-5pm on Sunday, May 4, at Fee Fee Baptist Church, 11330 St. Charles Rock Road.

For more information, call Vicki Stamps at 314.838.0462 or email her at vastamps@att.net.

Operation Christmas Child, a project of international Christian relief and evangelism orga-

nization Samaritan’s Purse, headed by Franklin Graham, is the world’s largest Christmas project of its kind. Through simple gifts and a message of hope, children learn they are loved and not forgotten. For many of these children, the shoebox gift will be the first gift they have ever received.

North County Event to Offer One-stop Access to Autism Resources April is Autism Awareness Month, and the Special School District of St. Louis County’s Parent Education and Diversity Awareness Program is sponsoring an event to help families and community members learn more about autism.

The North County Autism-Asperger-PDD Resource Fair is scheduled for 3:30-6pm on April 23 at SSD’s Ackerman School, 1550 Derhake Road in Florissant.

www.stygar.com

each year. The foundation also provides more than 11,000 area residents with free education and screenings each year.

Sponsorships are still available and cost for a foursome is $800; individual play is $200; or cocktail/dinner only is $70. For more information, please visit the website at www.christianhospital.org/golf or call the foundation office at 314.653.5162.

The fair will feature information about programs and resources from SSD and other community agencies, including the Department of Mental Health St. Louis Regional Office, Missouri Families for Effective Autism Treatment (MOFEAT), Missouri Parents Act (MPACT), the Recreation Council of Greater St. Louis and St. Louis ARC. Participants will have the chance to learn more about topics such as respite care, recreation opportunities, community summer programs, behavior support and planning for the future.

The event is free and open to the public. Registration is not required to attend. For more information, call 314.989.8194 (711 Deaf/HOH).

www.mycnews.com • Community News • April 16, 2014

Summer Shouldn’t Mean Hunger for Our Nation’s Children

By Kevin Concannon, USDA under secretary for Food, Nutrition and Consumer Services

Around Town

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NCI’s Annual Breakfast North County Incorporated (NCI) invites civic, business, community leaders and residents to celebrate their 37 years of service to the North County community at their Annual Breakfast on Friday, May 16 at the Renaissance St. Louis Airport at 7:30am.

Individual seats are available for purchase at the NCI office or at online at northstlouiscounty.com. The cost for an individual ticket is $45. For more information, call 314.895.6241 or email the office at nci@northcountyinc.com.

Florissant Recognized as a Member of Tree City USA for 25th Year

As a child, I always looked forward to the carefree joy of summertime. I remember the long days of playing outside at a nearby park until I needed to come home for lunch. Unfortunately, many of our nation’s children do not experience the simple joys of summer. In fact, far too many are left worrying where their next breakfast or lunch will come from when schools are dismissed for summer break.

During the school year, about 31 million American children receive school meals through the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program every day. About 21 million of those children receive meals at a discounted rate or for free, based on their family’s income.

When summer rolls around, though, only about 3.5 million of these children participate in USDA’s summer meals programs.

That means millions of eligible low-income children are at risk of going hungry during the summer months. And we know that to thrive and reach their highest potential, children need good nutrition all year long.

USDA’s Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) is working to fill this hunger gap for children who qualify for free and reduced price meals during the school year. The program serves free healthy meals to eligible children ages 18 and under, and is made possible through the efforts of national, state, and local partners, including a cadre of energized volunteers.

While USDA has worked to increase access to summer meals for low-income children for many years, SFSP began receiving priority attention in 2013. Last summer, USDA employed a new tactic of working with partners to deliver intensive, targeted technical assistance on SFSP in five states. The result was a historic increase in the number of meals served, nationwide—7 million more than the previous year! We hope to continue building on last year’s successes with our state and local partners in 2014, and move closer

to closing the summer hunger gap.

The key to success this year will be expanding the number of sites open for summer meals.

We must spread the word to schools, parks and recreation departments, libraries, and faith and other community organizations across the nation; their participation is critical for the continued success of SFSP. The deadlines to become Summer Food Service Program sponsors vary

by State, and begin as early as April 15. Program sponsors oversee and provide meals to summer sites. In return, USDA, through the States, reimburses program sponsors for the meals served to children.

I’m sure it comes as no surprise when I say that galvanizing hundreds of faith-based groups, civic groups, recreation centers, food banks, schools, other nonprofit organizations, and volunteers takes time, effort and commitment on all sides.

For any community that treasures its youth (and I haven’t met one that doesn’t), we must organize now to fight hunger this summer.

If you or your organization is interested in helping us reduce the risk of hunger among our nation’s youth, visit our website, www.summerfood.usda.gov. The summer meals outreach toolkit includes sample outreach plans, templates, customizable flyers, door hangers, letters to parents, examples of site activities, best practices, and more. State representatives are also available to answer questions and facilitate sponsor enrollment and site registration.

This year, let’s work together to make sure every child in our great nation has a hunger-free summer.

Pictured from left to right: Lisa Allen, Missouri Department of Conservation State Forestry, Larry Gerst, City of Florissant forester, Mayor Thomas P. Schneider, Doug Shelley, city of Florissant forester and Tom Draper, Missouri Department of Conservation deputy director.

Photo courtesy city of Florissant

Mayor Thomas P. Schneider and the City’s Foresters, Doug Shelley and Larry Gerst, attended the 2014 Arbor Day Recognition Ceremony and Luncheon to honor the St. Louis area Tree City USA, Tree Campus USA and Tree Line USA recipients. This marks the 25th year that the City of Florissant has been recognized as being a member of Tree City USA. The Tree City USA, Tree Line and Tree Campus USA programs are sponsored by the National Arbor Day Foundation in cooperation with the US Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters. These programs provide direction, technical assistance, public attention and national recognition for community forestry programs.

www.searshometownstores.com

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Business

April 16, 2014 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

Business Showcase Celebrated by an Overflow Crowd

City of Woodson Terrace Wins ACPA Award

The Greater North County Chamber held its 26th Business Showcase on Saturday, March 22 at the James J. Eagan Community Center.

The Chamber again partnered with The City of Florissant and added the “Taste of North County”.

Over 900 people attended the Showcase over 400 tickets to the Taste of North County were purchased. The sold out event featured over 50 showcase vendor booths and 10 local restaurants

The City of Woodson Terrace has received an Annual Award for Excellence in Concrete Pavement from MO/KS Chapter of ACPA. This award is designed to honor quality concrete pavements constructed in US and Canada each year.

The award presentation was made to the Woodson Terrace Mayor Lawrence Bessmer

by Mr. Ken Leischeidt, Mr. Ken Leischeidt, PE of the local ACPA chapter presents PE of local chapter of Woodson Terrace Mayor Lawrence Bessmer with the an Award for Excellence in Concrete Pavement. Photo ACPA on Thursday, Annual courtesy of the City of Woodson Terrace March 20, 2014 during the Council meeting of the City. Mr. Vijay Bhasin of Bhasin Associates and Mr. Scott Kokemeyer of Bax Engineering were also presented with recognitions.

Mr. Leischeidt brought to the attention of the public and other attendees that this has been one of the four projects of this category to receive this recognition, which were completed during the calendar year 2013.

sampling their foods.

Greater North County Chamber President Carolyn Marty said everyone had a great time and joins the Mayor in thanking everyone that supported the event and to everyone that attended.

More than $250,000 in One-time Grants is Available to Local Agencies United Way of Greater St. Louis is offering nonprofits, community agencies and faithbased organizations the opportunity to apply for one-time grants. For 2014, seven grant topics tailored to address specific issues are currently available within designated Missouri and Illinois counties. Completed grant submissions are due to United Way by 5pm on the designated dates listed below. Visit www.stl.unitedway.org/ grants for an application and to find out more about the grants available.

Grant submissions for issues relating to basic needs, youth services, community needs and employment support services are due by 5pm on April 25. While grant submissions relating to stability funding gap, second generation/multi-

generational solutions and urban male employment/entrepreneur opportunities are due by 5pm on May 23.

“Our one-time grants are investments United Way makes into a specific community or an emerging need,” said Vanessa Wayne, United Way of Greater St. Louis community investment director. “United Way assesses the needs of the region and makes grants available to organizations that can help meet those needs. Thanks to the generosity of our region, United Way is once again able to make these investments in quality organizations to help people live their best possible lives.”

United Way one-time grants are open to any nonprofit agency meeting the criteria of the specific grant, not just for United Way partner agencies. In 2013, United Way of Greater St. Louis awarded 32 organizations in the region one-time community enhancement grants, totaling $248,444.

www.yacovellis.com

SBA Offers Free National Mentor Month Event in Ferguson In honor of National Mentor Month, SBA St. Louis District Office is presenting a free seminar in Ferguson titled National Mentor Month - Find Your Entrepreneurial Passion after 50 from 1:303:30pm on Monday, April 28.

SBA St. Louis District Director Dennis Melton notes, “Entrepreneurship has never been more attractive—especially to those over 50. Affordable healthcare is now available, eliminating the “job lock” that previously held many Baby Boomers back. Right now many SBA loans have no fees. As we are living longer, healthier lives, many people want to fulfill the dreams they put on the back burner when they were raising their families.”

The siminar will take place at the Florissant Valley Campus Center for Workforce Innovation, 3344 Pershall Road in Ferguson.

Reservations are required for this free event. To reserve a spot, contact Patti Guttmann at 314.539.6615 or patricia.guttmann@sba.gov.

For more information on how the SBA can assist small businesses, contact the St. Louis District Office at 314.539.6600 or visit www.sba. gov/mo/stlouis.

www.Welsch-heatcool.com

www.mycnews.com • Community News • April 16, 2014

School

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Pattonville High School Teacher, Students Featured on Education News Show Watch Pattonville High School science teacher Rob Lamb and his students explain the benefits of the flipped classroom on HEC-TV’s Behind the Minds show by visiting www.hectv.org/video/14205/march-2014-2/.

A flipped classroom is one in which teacher instruction is recorded, and students watch the video outside the classroom allowing them to watch the instruction multiple times to grasp the concept or information.

Then during class, the students practice what they have learned under the guidance of the teacher giving the class flexibility for collaboration, one-on-one instruction and more time for projects.

The HEC-TV also features Lamb in a panel discussion flipping the classroom. The discussion airs as a companion to the news segment and was filmed on location at the Pattonville High School community au-

High School Dancers – Singers – Musicians Entertain a Full House at 4th Annual St. Louis Teen Talent Competition Finals On Friday, April 4, twelve metro area high school acts brought the crowd to their feet at The Fabulous Fox Theatre as they poured their hearts and souls out on stage at the St. Louis Teen Talent Competition Finals. Twenty students competed for thousands of dollars in college scholarships and special prizes.

The distinguished panel of performing arts professionals - with careers spanning film, TV and Broadway - had the difficult job of judging the acts.

Technical ability, stage 1st place winner Donesha Buhr performs a hula presence, interpretation hoop routine to Overture from CHICAGO during the and originality were all 4th annual St. Louis Teen Talent Competition Finals taken into consideration to at The Fabulous Fox Theatre in St. Louis. choose the following students for the top honors: 1st place ($7,000 college scholarship) went to Donesha Buhr (Fresh Start North Academy/Circus Harmony) who performed a hula hoop routine to Overture from CHICAGO. 2nd place ($5,000 college scholarship) went to “Underground Tappers” (Central Visual & Performing Arts High School) for performing an a Capella tap number.

Christopher Frey, Marquis Houston and Wes Ragland (Webster Groves High School) took the $3,000 scholarship for 3rd place as well as the new Audience Choice award for their performance of the original work Hip Hopera.

Several special awards went to finalists and semi-finalists. The group of twenty finalists will also have the opportunity to perform at a variety of events around the metro area over the upcoming year, giving them great additions to their professional resumes.

The Broadway-style show was written and directed by Tony Parise (Broadway actor/director) and choreographed by Yvonne Meyer Hare (Professional Dance Center). This year, the event celebrated St. Louis’ 250th birthday and included a performance by last year’s first place winners “Two Mellow Cello Fellows.” In addition, the Fox Tellerettes performed and emcee Ben Nordstrom (Kevin Kline Award winner) kept the program running smoothly with humor and song.

The Finals were videotaped by The Nine Network for a special St. Louis Teen Talent Competition program to be aired on Monday, May 12 at 7pm. This special presentation will give a wider audience the opportunity to see St. Louis’ talented teens perform. The 5th Annual St. Louis Teen Talent Competition at The Fox has been scheduled for April 24, 2015.

ditorium.

The HEC-TV show airs at 7pm on Wednesdays and Fridays; 11am on Mondays; and 2pm on Thursdays until June on the following cable channels: Channel 989 on Charter Cable with a converter box Channel 108.26 or 118.26 on Charter Cable with a digital TV Channel 99 on AT&T

Ferguson-Florissant School District STEM Expo a Success The Ferguson-Florissant School District held its third annual STEM Expo on Tuesday, April 15 to showcase the District’s programs and community resources related to science, technology, engineering and math, known collectively as STEM. The 2014 STEM Expo featured the top science fair projects of District students, special presentations and interactive displays related to science, technology, engineering and math. Among other attractions, attendees were able to see robots in action, observe the stars in a Planetarium and make fruit smoothies using electricity generated by a stationary bicycle.

The Expo featured information on college and career paths in STEM. Representatives from local colleges and universities, technical schools and community colleges offered information on STEM-related courses of study; local manufacturing and construction unions will be present to speak with attendees about STEMrelated trades, and recruiters from the armed forces were be on hand to discuss STEMrelated job assignments.

“We are preparing our students for today’s informationbased and highly technological society with a focus on developing their capabilities in science, technology, engineering and math,” said Eric Hadley, science curriculum coordinator for the FergusonFlorissant School District.

“The STEM Expo gives us the opportunity to showcase some of our students’ best work, demonstrate the critical importance of these fields in the 21st century and show

students how they can prepare themselves for the future.”

www.rickniblettphotography.com

www.lwcs.us

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Learn & Play

April 16, 2014 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

Community Toons

John Hanna

John Hanna is a part time, amateur cartoonist taking his first step into the world of print and online comic media. When he isn’t drawing or working at his second job, he can be seen in and around the St Charles area. If you like his work, that is good. If you don’t like it, that is good too.

SUDOKU:

Oldest Pick:

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.

“A Snicker of Magic” Community News is proud to offer our readers “Book Buzz.”

This column will feature great books for children in three categories: Youngest Pick: early childhood to the first or second grade, Middle Pick: elementary school children, and Oldest Pick: middle school children. Enjoy!

Reprinted with permission, Missourian Publishing Company.

Copyright 2014.

See solution on page 13

smsw2ladiesandamop@yahoo.com

www.byerlyrv.com

You can expect a book that’s “spindiddly” and “factofabulous” when you dig into A Snicker of Magic, a creamydouble-dip of pleasure by Natalie Lloyd.

There are enough yummy quotes in this charmer to fill a banjo case.

Felicity “Flea” Pickles is only in the sixth grade, but she’s already lived in a handful of states. Her dad walked out on her mom, leaving her to wander on the hunt for happiness. Felicity, her mama and little sister hope to find a just-right home in Midnight Gulch, Tenn., where her mother grew up.

Back then, the town was steeped in magic, but a curse stripped Midnight Gulch of its specialness. Now there’s just a “snicker of magic” left. The curse arose out of a feud between the “Threadbare Brothers,” a contest that pitted Stone against Berry, each working spells to outdo the other.

A winner was declared, but Midnight Gulch’s citizens were the true losers.

Their stories are revealed as Felicity and her do-gooder friend, the mysterious Beedle, prepare Felicity for a talent show that just might break the spell.

There’s plenty of homespun fun in this charmer.

Six Surprising Ways to Beat Allergy Season From watery, itchy eyes to unbearable congestion, allergies can certainly ruin one’s day, or even the entire season. But, there’s no reason to remain indoors in beautiful weather, say experts.

“One over-looked approach towards feeling well lies in prevention,” says Lisa Metzger, PhD. With that in mind, Metzger is offering six allergy-fighting tips: • Get exercise. It may sound counterintuitive to go outside if you suffer from airborne allergies, but moderate exercise is known to strengthen the body’s immune response.

Just be sure to watch the pollen count, and when it’s low squeeze Photo courtesy (c) Frank - Fotolia.com in a brisk walk. If pollen count is high, head to the gym instead.

• Wash up. Use baby shampoo to wash your face and eye area in the shower. During allergy season, sweat can trap the pollen and irritants in the creases of the face where they are the most irritating.

Baby shampoo is a safe alternative to wash away the dirt, sweat and symptoms of allergy season.

• Consider natural supplements shown in published research to help strengthen the immune system.

Allergies can be described as being caused by the immune system over-reacting to harmless

particles (like pollen). It is smart to strengthen your immune system by getting proper sleep and managing your stress. Sometimes that is easier said than done; so taking a natural supplement shown to strengthen the immune system can help.

• Limit dairy. Dairy causes the creation of phlegm, which can increase the intensity of allergy symptoms like runny nose, sore throat and cough.

• Change your diet.

Incorporate natural antihistamines into your meals. Look for foods that contain flavonoids, such as tomatoes and blueberries, as well as Vitamin A found in green leafy vegetables and squash.

• Use a saline spray for your nose. This may not sound like much fun, but using an inexpensive saline spray or rinse is an effective way to flush pollen out of your nose. Saline sprays can be purchased at any local pharmacy. As an alternative, use a neti pot salt-water rinse.

“Your immunity affects every aspect of the day, from work performance to emotional well-being,” says Metzger. “By taking proactive efforts for better health, you’ll be less likely to miss out on life this allergy season.” (StatePoint)

www.mycnews.com • Community News • April 16, 2014

Movie

“The Grand Budapest Hotel”

It’s quite easy to identify a Wes Anderson film by sight alone. The director of such critical hits as Bottle Rocket and Rushmore, Anderson blends stark colors and visuals with such talented actors as Bill Murray and Edward Norton to create an offbeat movie experience.

On a purely visual level, The Grand Budapest Hotel contains the elements that make Anderson such a great director. Unfortunately, the characters and frantic pacing here take a lot away from what could have been a charming period piece.

Tom Wilkinson plays an unnamed author who serves as the narrator of the story. He reflects back on his first meeting with Zero Moustafa (F. Murray Abraham), the eccentric owner of the Grand Budapest Hotel. Decades earlier, the writer met Moustafa at a time when the hotel was losing some of its glory.

Trusting the writer with his story, Moustafa recounts how he learned the hotel business from Monsieur Gustave H. (Ralph Fiennes), a concierge who offered more than the usual services to wealthy female guests. After Gustave pushes his luck once too often, Zero must find a way to rescue his boss from prison.

Coming off the charming Moonrise Kingdom, Wes Anderson may have lost a few steps with The Grand Budapest Hotel. Based on the works of the late Stefan Zweig, the story has far more than the usual twists and turns. Anderson’s multi-layered approach typically works quite well, but here it is more of a distraction than anything else.

After several Harry Potter appearances, it’s good to see Ralph Fiennes’ face emerge from behind The Grand Budapest Hotel photos courtesy of Fox Searchlight Pictures Lord Voldemort’s makeup.

While not necessarily as evil as the Dark Lord, Gustave H. is a morally ambiguous character.

He charms wealthy women with his sweet words and actions, but it’s clear that his true motives are wealth and prestige.

Young Tony Revolori is a

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By Steve Bryan - Rated:R charmer here, though, as young Zero Moustafa, the future owner of the Grand Budapest. Gustave H. takes the novice lobby boy under his wing, teaching him everything about guest relations. Zero also has a sweet romance with Agatha (Saoirse Ronan), the girl who works in a nearby bakery.

Bill Murray and Edward Norton are on hand once again in smaller roles as a fellow concierge and Inspector Henckels.

Yet, the true star of the film is the elegant Grand Budapest Hotel. Hats off to the set designers for capturing the charm and grace of an old world hotel. The set pieces and Tony Revolori are the only things about The Grand Budapest Hotel that deserve a recommendation.

The Grand Budapest Hotel, rated R for language, some sexual content, and violence, currently is playing in local theaters.

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.

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April 16, 2014 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

Sports

Gary Baute Lindenwood University Freshmen Gets Honors Girls basketball player Kassidy Gengenbacher continues to rake in the postseason honors.

The Women’s Division II Bulletin named Gengenbacher a member of the All-Freshman team.

The freshman from Quincy, IL was one of 10 freshmen in all of Division II to be named to the team.

Gengenbacher led the Lady Lions in scoring (16.1), steals (48), three-point percentage (.423), and free throw percentage (.807).

She also ranked fifth in scoring, second in free throw percentage, fifth in steals, and first in threepoint percentage in the MIAA. Gengenbacher led the team in scoring 17 times this season and scored in double figures 24 of 28 games she played in. ~~~Only the beginning Rascals Pick Up Catcher From The New York Yankees The River City Rascals ball club out of O’Fallon MO will start the 2014 season in 36-days.

Several changes have seen several leave and a few added to the roster.

Filling spots, Rascals Manager Steve Brook signed catcher Josh Ludy and third-baseman Taylor Ard to

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the team.

23-year old catcher Josh Ludy has two years of professional baseball under his belt in the Phillies organization where he reached High A (A+) Clearwater. Behind the plate, the catcher had an impressive fielding percentage of .977 and caught 27% of would be base-stealers. Brook notes that, “Ludy spent time as a back up catcher in both A ball and high A the past two seasons after having a breakout season in 2011/2012 with Baylor. He was named Big 12 Player of the Year in 2012.”

Third-baseman Taylor Ard, 7th-round pick by the Seattle Mariners, also joins the Rascals roster after spending two seasons in the Mariners organization where he hit .258 with 20 HR and 111 RBI. After spending the entire 2013 season at Single A (A) Clinton, “Ard brings an additional middle of the line-up RBI threat to our already versatile offense. I look for him to compete for a position at either 3B or 1B this season,” says Brook. ~~~The wheels are turning early St. Louis Attack Have Perfect Record The Attack play their home games at the Family Arena and are in the X-League Indoor Football.

On their third game of their new season, the Attacks defense again dominated to improve to 3-0 in front of over 3000 fans with a 59-42 victory over the Florida Marine Raiders. The win put the indoor football team alone in first place in the XLeague.

The St. Louis team’s secondary picked off the Raiders’ quarterbacks six times and turned three of those into touchdowns.

The Attack’s offense saw quarterbacks Mike McMullen throw for two touchdowns with another TD

by Keevis Hamilton. Wide receiver DeAndre Jackson was led the team hauling in two of the four passing touchdowns. His final TD was a perfectly placed corner route to score the only offensive points in the second half.

The dual running back threat of Keenan Miller and week one X-Factor Darryl Grady Jr. kept the defense honest and helped convert some big first downs.

“Tonight was a statement game to prove to the league that the championship runs through St. Louis,” stated X-Factor Player of the Game Marcus Dickinson. “We are the most physical team in the league and have the best offense, defense, and fans. The coaching staff did a great job preparing us for the game. We knew their tendencies and what they were going to do before they did it.”

The next home game will be on May 2nd to take on the Alabama Outlawz. The Attack defeated the Outlawz 59-39 earlier in the season.

Visit www.stlouisattack.com for more information. ~~~Strutting their stuff Gary Baute, a St. Louis native, may be educated in business but he lives and breathes sports. As a fan or an athlete, Gary is all sports all the time. He hosted a radio sports program on KFNS, emceed the River City Rascals’ inaugural season, and co-hosted SportsRadioSTL.com, among many other activities. Currently he broadcasts a radio show on 590 ‘The Man’ and 1380 ‘The Woman.’

www.mycnews.com • Community News • April 16, 2014

Recipes:

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Get Together and Grill Easy and delicious recipes for entertaining

Simplify your summer entertaining routine with quick, easy-tomake dishes that feature fresh, scrumptious ingredients.

Laid back and lovely, summer parties call for wonderful friends, flavorful foods and refreshing beverages. But having company over to enjoy the beautiful outdoor surroundings doesn’t mean you have to stress over time-consuming meals that can take all day to prepare. Luckily, there are yummy options available for every al fresco host.

Keeping it simple, fresh Make a warm weather gathering great by incorporating creative dishes that require the beloved summertime ritual of firing up the grill. Simple grilled recipes, or those that require no cooking, allow you to cut down on the prep and clean up time. Your guests will love these recipes, which all feature Sabra Hummus, a betterfor-you dip. Available in more than 10 flavors, Sabra allows you to customize to your guests’ favorite, flavorful preferences.

Serve up those summer flavors all season long. Visit www.sabra. com for more recipes that please guests and save on time while entertaining.

Grilled Flatbread with Hummus & Mixed Veggies Prep time: 5 minutes • Total time: 30 minutes • Yield: 4 servings

Loaded Chopped Salad with Chipotle-Hummus Dressing Prep time: 15 minutes • Total time: 15 minutes • Yield: 4-6 servings

Ingredients: For salad: 2 heads romaine lettuce, washed and torn into bite-sized pieces 1 red bell pepper, diced 2 celery ribs, diced 2 carrots, peeled and diced 10 grape tomatoes, halved 1/2 small red onion, diced 1/2 English cucumber, diced 2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese For dressing: 1/2 cup Sabra Chipotle Hummus, including all of topping

1/4 cup reduced fat milk 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar Directions: Place all ingredients for the salad in large bowl and toss gently to combine.

Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 clove garlic, minced 1 sweet onion, thinly sliced 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced 8 large mushrooms, thinly sliced 1 cup baby spinach 4 Indian flatbreads (naan) or pocketless pita 1 cup Sabra Hummus 4 teaspoons grated Parmesan cheese 1 cup part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded 2 teaspoons dried oregano Red pepper flakes, optional 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

room. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 8 minutes or until veggies are soft.

Remove from heat and stir in spinach. Set aside.

Place flatbread on grill or stovetop gas flame; grill for a couple of minutes or until lightly browned, turning once.

Directions: Heat oil in skillet over medium heat.

Add garlic, onion bell pepper and mush-

Whisk all ingredients for dressing in small bowl.

Pour half of dressing on top of salad and toss well to coat. Add more dressing as desired or serve extra on side.

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Place all four flatbreads on baking sheet.

To assemble flatbreads, evenly spread surface with hummus. Sprinkle parmesan cheese on top of hummus. Top with veggies then mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle with oregano and red pepper flakes.

Place in oven and bake for about 5 minutes or until cheese is melted. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar.

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What’s Happening

April 16, 2014 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

Send your event to editor@mycnews.com and we'll print it!

Events Now-April 18: Florissant Elks #2316 Fish Fry 4-8pm, Florissant Elks #2316, 16400 New Halls Ferry Road. Cod, Jack salmon and various sides and desserts will be avaliable. For more information call 314.921.2316.

April 19: Emerson Family YMCA Easter Egg Hunts Outdoors and indoors. 10:30am–1 pm, Emerson Family YMCA, 3390 Pershall Road. Free and open to the public, includes pictures with the Easter Bunny and crafts. Register by calling the Y by noon on Friday, April 18 at 314.521.1822.

April 21: Food Truck Monday on the Walk in Ferguson 11am-2pm, Plaza at 501 S Florissant Road in Ferguson.

April 22: NWCC Earth Day Picnic and Kickball Game 11am-3pm, Ferguson Sports Complex at Forest Park. For more information, or to register call 314.291.2131.

April 26: Prudential Select Properties Shred Day/Technology ECycling 10am-noon, 5494 Brown Road, Suite 113 in Hazelwood. For more information call 314.838.8661.

April 26: YMCA Healthy Kids’ Day and Camp Open House

10am-2 pm, Emerson Family YMCA 3390 Pershall Road. Free access to the Y all day, open to the community. full details, visit www. ymcastlouis/edwardjones, or call 314.521.1822 April 27: Spaghetti and Meatball Dinner benefiting Old St. Ferdinand Shrine 1-6pm, The Knights of Columbus Council #2951, 50 rue St. Francois in Florissant. Chef Don Costello will prepare spaghetti, meatballs, salad, and bread. $8 per adult, $5 per children ages 3-2. For more information email jimzak60@gmail. com or call 314.837.2110.

Every Friday until Easter: Fish Fry Florissant Valley American Legion Post 444. 4-7pm, Florissant Valley Memorial Post 444, 7090 Old Jamestown Road in Florissant. $8 for large plates and $7 for small plates; baked and fried fish offered, and dessert available. For more information call 314.741.7786.

Coming soon: Look Good…Feel Better SSM Cancer Care at DePaul Health Center, 12303 DePaul Drive. Radiation OncologyBridgeton. Attend a great makeup session sponsored by the American Cancer Society.

A licensed cosmetologist teaches a session of scarf tying, shows a parade of hats, and provides each participant with a makeup kit.

Light refreshments are served. Info: 314.344.6090.

Recurring Events Mondays: Karaoke at DeLeo’s Cafe & Deli 2782 North Hwy 67, Florissant, 8 10:30pm, 314.839.3880.

Mondays: Free Line Dancing 6:30pm, beginners welcome, RSVP 314.838.3877, St. Catherine Retirement Community, 3350 St. Catherine St. Mondays and Wednesdays: Seniors: Exercise with Melanie FREE. Classes are led by a licensed Physical Therapist. 1 pm. 3350 St. Catherine St. (near the Eagan Center) RSVP 314.838.3877 Sundays: Tours at Old St. Ferdinand Shrine #1 Rue St. Francois St., Florissant, 1 – 4pm, through October. Donations accepted. Docents needed.

314.921.7582, vicray01@aol.com 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.

Last Saturdays: Writers Workshop: 10am - 1:30pm, Baden Liberary, 8448 Church Rd., 314.388.2400 Fridays: Tai Chi for seniors free classes No class November 29. RSVP by calling 314.838.3877 Every 4th Tuesday: Fort Bellefontaine Memorial American Legion Post 335 Meeting 7:30 pm Santa Cruez K of C Hall, 800 Chambers Road. Post 335 is looking for new members.

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Church Thursday, April 17: Maundy Thursday, Trinity Episcopal Church 6pm, Agape Meal; 7:15pm, Communion; 9:30pm-12:30am, Keeping Watch. Trinity Episcopal Church, 318 S. Duchesne Drive in St. Charles.For more information please call 636 939-0160 or visit www.trinity-stcharles.org Friday, April 18: Trinity Episcopal Church Good Friday 12:30-11:30am, Keeping Watch; noon Good Friday Liturgy; 7pm, The Cross & the Prodigal. Trinity Episcopal Church, 318 S. Duchesne Drive in St. Charles. For more information please call 636 939-0160 or visit www.trinity-stcharles.org April 18: Bellefontaine United Methodist Fish Fry 4-6pm, Bellefontaine United Methodist Church, 10600 Bellefontaine Road. Children under 6 are free.

Single plate $7.50, double place $8.50. For more information, please call 314.867.

Friday, April 18: Good Friday Service 7pm, Bethany- Peace United Chruch of Christ, 11952 Bellefontaine Road.

Sunday April 20: Easter Sunday Service 10am, Bethany- Peace United Chruch of Christ, 11952 Bellefontaine Road.

Saturday, April 19: Trinity Episcopal Church Easter Eve 7:30pm, Great Vigil of Easter – Fire, Story, Water, Bread & Wine. Party Follows. Prodigal. Trinity Episcopal Church, 318 S. Duchesne Drive in St. Charles. For more information please call 636 939-0160 or visit www.trinity-stcharles.org Sunday, April 20: Trinity Episcopal Church Easter Day 8 & 10:15am, Festival Eucharist & Flowering of the Cross; 11:30am, Easter Egg Hunt and Festive

Coffee Hour. Trinity Episcopal Church, 318 S. Duchesne Drive in St. Charles.For more information please call 636 939-0160 or visit www.trinity-stcharles.org 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 April 17: Stress and Chronic Pain Workshop 7pm, Dr. Martin Schmaltz Chiropractic Office, 7161 N Lindbergh Boulevard in Hazelwood. The event is free, and open to the public but registration is required. To register, call 314.731.4383, or register online at http://bit.ly/stressworkshop.

May 3: SSM Rehabilitation Hospital Stroke Prevention Health Fair 10am-3pm, St. Louis Outlet Mall, 5555 St. Louis Mills Boulevard. For more information on the event, call 314.447.9644 Every Monday, Health Tips With Mary Swip 11am,. The Bridge at Florissant, 1101 Garden Plaza Drive in Florissant. Sales Director Mary Swip will have a guest speaker come talk about health and wellness tips All Bridge events are free, but require reservations. Please RSVP by calling 314.831.0988.

Now: SilverSneakers Senior Wellness Program at the Maryland Heights Centre A fun, energizing program that helps older adults take greater control of their health by encouraging physical activity and offering social events. A Silver Sneakers membership includes access to the city’s Fitness Centre with state-of-theart fitness equipment and circuit training. Membership is available at little or no cost through your health plan. To find out if you are eligible, visit www.silversneakers.com or call 314.738.2599.

www.mycnews.com • Community News • April 16, 2014 2nd Tuesday of Every Month: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group Meeting Meeting to be held at Sarah Care of Bridgeton Adult Day Center 11977 St. Charles Rock Road, Suite 121-124, Bridgeton, MO 63044. Join our Support Group for Mutual, Emotional Support and Education. You are not alone.

For information, contact Deborah Mabrie at 314-291-5210 or Ferd Fetsch at 314-291-3021 Email: dbland@sarahcare.com ferdfetsch@ sbcglobal.net.

Third Tuesdays: Alzheimer’s Association At Lutheran Senior Services at Hidden Lake, 10 – 11am, 11728 Hidden Lake Dr., St. Louis, 314.292.7504 Diabetes Basics: 314.344.7024 for info 314.344.7220 to enroll.

or

Crisis Nursery: Committed to preventing child abuse and neglect, the Crisis Nursery provides short-term, safe havens to children, birth through age 12, whose families are faced with an emergency or crisis. Care is available year-round and serves families throughout the greater St. Charles region. 24-hour helpline: 314.768.3201. Or 636.947.0600, www.crisisnurserykids.org Nutrition Education: SSM DePaul registered dieticians can help you make sure your diet is right for you, 314.344.6157 Group at Christian Hospital To register call 314.747.9355 Tuesdays: Alcohol and Drug Information Meeting Christian Hospital Building 2, Suite 401, 6:30 – 8pm, 314.839.3171, free and open to the public.

Sundays:

Alcoholics

Anony-

mous Group 109 11th floor conference room at Christian Hospital, 10am, 11133 Dunn Road.

Wednesdays: STEPS Schizophrenia Support Group 6:30 - 7:30pm, 314.839.3171.

Center for Senior Renewal: Day treatment programs for older adults dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, loss and early signs of dementia, 314.653.5123.

Christian Hospital Recovery Center: Outpatient mental health and substance abuse treatment for adults, 314.953.8100.

Volunteers Needed at Christian Hospital: Call 314.653.5032 SSM DePaul Healthy Happenings 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.

Diabetes Self-Management Training: Call 314.344.7220 Smoking Cessation Classes: Free ongoing 8-week sessions, 866.SSM.DOCS to register or for more information.

SSM DePaul Wellness Center: Classes available on strength training, nutrition and smoking cessation, 314.344.6177 SSM St. Joseph Hospital Healthy Happenings Free Mammogram Screenings: SSM Health Care free mammo-

gram screenings to women who have no health insurance. Appointments at 300 First Capitol Drive in St. Charles and SSM St. Joseph Hospital West, 100 Medical Plaza in Lake Saint Louis, 636.947.5617 Speaker’s Bureau: SSM speakers available for organizations, clubs, community and church groups for up to one hour free of charge, 636.949.7159 Ongoing Support Groups Wednesdays: TOPS #361 Florissant Meetings 10 –11am, Bethel United Church of Christ, 14700 New Halls Ferry Rd., 314.831.5808. Group support to lose weight. Everyone welcome.

Sundays: Support Group for Women Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse 6:30 - 8pm, 7401 Delmar Ave. in University City, 314.993.5421.

First and Third Tuesdays: Support Group for Women Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse 12:30 - 2pm, 320 Forsyth Blvd., Clayton, 314.968.3477.

Third Saturdays: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group At Delmar Gardens North, 4401 Parker Rd., Florissant, 9am, 314.355.1516, Helpline 800.272.3900 Last Saturdays: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group: Mother of Good Counsel Home, 6825 Natural Bridge, St. Louis, 10:30am 314.383.4765

What’s Happening

Wednesdays: Weekly Cancer Survivor’s Support Group H.W. Koenig Medical Building at SSM St. Joseph Hospital West, 3 4:30pm, free, 636.755.3034 12 Step Support Group for Women Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse: Meets in 4 locations in the metro St Louis area. Information: metrostlouissia@gmail.com.

Wednesdays: New Choices NarAnon Family Group at Zion Lutheran Church 12075 Dorsett Road, Maryland Heights, 7:30 – 9pm, www.NarAnon.org Thursdays: Grief Share Support Group Church of the Nazarene, 1309 N. Elizabeth Ave., Ferguson 6:30 8pm, leecedra@sbcglobal.net Mondays & Thursdays: Breathe/ for people with pulmonary disease Graham Medical Center, 1150 Graham Rd. Suite 104, 11am 12pm, $30, 314-953-6090 Wednesdays: STEPS Schizophrenia Support Group 6:30-7:30pm, 314.839.3171.

Calcium Scoring Heart Scan Program SSM DePaul Health Center. This program uses advanced (CT) imaging to scan the arteries around the heart and measure or score the amount of calcium present in the plaque deposits. This screen-

Last Tuesdays: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group Missouri Veterans Home, 10600 Lewis & Clark, St. Louis, 1pm, 314.340.6389

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This Month’s Shelter: The Humane Society of Missouri’s Chesterfield Valley Center at Boone’s Crossing 17357 Edison Avenue, Chesterfield, MO 63005 •www.hsmo.org www.hsmo.org If you’ve adopted a new family member that you saw in Community News, send us a picture of you and your new pal. Also include a brief story about your pet’s background and how they’re doing now. We’d love to share your happy story with other readers!

Community News, 2139 Bryan Valley Commercial Dr., O’Fallon, MO 63366 or editor@ mycnews.com.

The U.S. Humane Society estimates 6 to 8 million dogs and cats enter shelters each year, and 3 to 4 million are euthanized. Please do your part to control overpopulation and to limit the number of unwanted animals. SPAY AND NEUTER YOUR PETS!

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ing, in combination with other heart disease risk factors (high cholesterol, high blood pressure, cigarette smoking, physical inactivity, etc.) can help determine an overall picture of your current heart health and your risk for developing heart disease. Call 314.344.6030 to learn more about the heart scan program or to schedule an appointment.

SSM St. Joseph Health Center & Hospital West Auxiliary Non profit organization assisting the hosp. by holding fund raisering activities, being of service to patients, families, employees & physicians and acting as good will ambassadors to community. We welcome new member. Call Barb Hutchinson 636.947.5466.

The Barnes St. Peters Hospital Auxiliary is looking for New Members If you would like to become a member please call 636.916.9664.

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April 16, 2014 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

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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.

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Mosquito Seas on

FIT!FUN!

By Shelly A.

Schneider

Missouri is home to about mosquitoes.

Some live less 50 species of while others than may live several a week, months.

FofIT online cnews@centurytel.net Our publications use a combination US! FUN!subscription, ULO Fair www.mycnews.com Women’s FAB ofcnews@centurytel.net Combined Women’s

By Shelly A.

Fair

C o o liConolgin It Follow these tips to keep your family and pets safe from mosquitoes.

g It

July 11, 2007 July 11, 2007

Vol 9 No 28

Vol 9 No 28

Mosquito Season

By Shelly A.

Schneider

Missouri is home to about mosquitoes.

Some live less 50 species of while others than may live several a week, months.

Community Health and ment states the Environit is only the female mosquito that “bites” and she does so blood meal needed to lay to obtain the viable eggs.

While mosquitoes usually do more than drive little the family from doors to the the outindoors, they carriers of are sometimes dang may contract erous diseases. Hum ans malaria, gue, and encephalitis; yellow fever, denand dogs may heartworm. get Most of these the exception diseases, of human encephalitis with canine heartworm, have been fairly and eliminated well from Health officials the entire United States. said outbreaks to borne encephalitis of mosquihave periodically occurred in Missouri.

“Canine heartworm is an endemic problem, with ers escalating costs to animal owneach warned. “Effective year,” health officials measures including mosquito control the elimination swamp areas, of to keep road and maintenance efforts ditches clear have done and much to control water free mosquito for disease transmission.”

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St. Charles

By Shelly A.

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IN THIS ISSUE

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IN THIS ISSUE

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Our FREE publications are available in over 500 convenient locations, including every Dierbergs, Schnucks and Shop ’N Save.

because the majority of voluntary readers are occasional readers.

Over time, these unique 58206_CirMap.indd 2 groups add up to a readership size about three times greater than the print run.

CROSSROADS MAGAZINE MAGAZINE Or, signOUR upTOWN for a FREE ONLINE SUBSCRIPTION at Published bi-monthly, Our Town is direct mailed to all business This monthly lifestyle magazine covers the fast-growing Wentzville and Lake St. Louis areas. It is direct mailed with addresses in its service area, plus online subscribers. It is a www.mycnews.com additional copies available in newsstands, unique business-to-business magazine featuring chamber of commerce news plus articles on the economy, technology, human resources, and marketing.

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16

April 16­, 2014 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

Joe Morice

Over the Fence

Is TV Training Bullies?

Bullies have probably been around since humans learned to use physical force. These days they seem to have increased in numbers, percentage wise. The blame is often shared by parents, schools, TV and so on. Personally, I blame TV for many modern iniquities but I still believe behavior traits start at home at a very young age.

Aside from that, one of my pet peeves is cage fighting that now dominates TV sports if indeed, it is a sport. To me it appears as scientific barroom brawling without the broken beer bottles. The TV cage brawlers unusually appear noisy, arrogant, tattooed and hostile.

But more than anything, they remind me of the scary teenaged bullies from my youth. One either kowtowed to them or suffered severe beatings.

I often watched professional boxing and some believed it wasn’t humane either. Perhaps they were right but compared to cage fighting, it seems tame. If a boxer is knocked down, his opponent is made to stand in a neutral corner while the referee counts to ten. In cage fighting, the fight sometimes continues on the floor until the loser is beaten into incoherence.

Upon winning, there ensues more chest-beating and posturing while the loser is carried off.

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The alarming part is the children and their parents who cheer them on.

If there was ever a clearer encouragement of bullybehavior, I haven’t seen it. What’s worse, schools that are left with dealing with bullies have little chance of expelling them nor can they always count on parental cooperation. It presents a “Catch 22” situation. Several parents I spoke with claim parental guidance has become expected of teachers and police instead of parents and obviously, it’s not working.

There was a time TV producers would have hesitated before airing this sort of brutality but that was long ago during a kinder, gentler era. I doubt there is any limit to what today’s TV producers would air were it not for creating total public outrage or lawsuits. It seems obvious that any concerns about promoting violence among children seldom precedes those of the obscene profits that have become the norm for network television.

The definition of a bully varies a bit as well. Most kids ran from them but when someone finally fought

them off and won, they were accused of being a bully by the bullies. It was a no win situation. I also discovered they were usually cowards. Their bullying only occurred when their cronies were available to help them beat up some unfortunate kid that couldn’t avoid them. Either that or the bully was far bigger and stronger than his or her victim. When I say ‘her’, it’s another alarming faction of gang-styled bullying among females that has cropped up in recent years I often wonder if some of history’s worst dictators grew up as bullies or were instead, their victims. Perhaps our nation’s most notorious gangsters started that way.

This is not to say those cage fighters are cowardly bullies. They are actually talented athletes. Even TV wrestlers who often have the same showboating proclivities for chest-beating and noisy bravado are good athletes. It’s the disturbing behavior they represent to gullible TV viewers who would emulate their violent behavior that is in question.

Some may disagree, but to me letting children watch cage fighting on TV is the same as teaching them how to be more effective bullies.

“By the time a child reaches out to an adult, the vast majority of kids have been dealing with the bullying and trying to ignore it for a long time.” -Rosalind Wiseman Joe Morice is Community News’s blue-collar philosopher.

He was born and raised in Missouri and spent most of his childhood on a farm and adulthood operating big machines. He has no formal training as a writer, unless 60 years of writing about any and everything counts.

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The opinions expressed in this column are Joe Morice’s alone and do not reflect the opinion of the owners or staff of Community News.