CN: May 2. 2012

May 2, 2012 Vol. 91 No. 18

Celebrate 50 years of festivals May 3-6

Valley of Flowers Festival The Valley of Flowers Festival has been celebrated every year since 1963.

For 50 years the Valley of Flowers Festival has been the “first festival of spring” featuring a variety of events and a grand parade! This four-day weekend festival features activities for everyone, from a flower and plant sale to culturally diverse musical performances. There are baseball games, craft and flea market sales, children’s activities, a classic car show and, of course, good food. Carnival games and exciting rides are featured at the Knights of Columbus Fairgrounds.

The Tot Wheels Parade for our youngest participants and the official “Big Parade” highlight the weekend.

The Festival culminates on Sunday, May 6 with the crowning of the Valley of Flowers

Festival Fairgrounds at Knights of Columbus

IN this Issue

There will be many activities all weekend at the Knights of Columbus Duchesne Council grounds on Washington Street between St. Ferdinand and Lindbergh Blvd. (N. Hwy 67) next to the Old St. Ferdinand Shrine. The grounds are reserved for families on Thursday, May 3 for “Family Knight.” On this night only, all rides are one ticket. There will also be “Family Friendly Meal Deals.” All weekend enjoy the rides, games, great food and famous barbeque. There are even more rides available for younger children as well as the grand Ferris wheel for everyone. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday visit the beer and wine garden.

On Sunday, watch the parade, and after you experience the crowning of the queen and her court at the large pavilion, the Knights invite everyone to their charity raffle with fabulous items for the winners. The Knights will serve their delicious barbecue ribs, pork steaks, brats, hot dogs, and hamburgers Friday Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4 Business. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Valley of Flowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7

Photo by Kevin Veit

through Sunday. Other food and game booths, all sponsored by local not-forprofit organizations, will offer a variety of festival foods and games.

On Sunday, immediately following the parade, the Valley of Flowers Queen and her court will be crowned at the Knights of Columbus Pavilion. Awards will be presented to the winners of the Valley of Flowers Parade, Tot Wheels Parade, and Pretty Baby Photo contest. Activities continue on the grounds afterwards including the charity raffle. All proceeds from the raffle go to help those in need in the Florissant area.

The Knights of Columbus grounds are open from 4:30 – 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, 4 to 8:30 p.m. on Friday, 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, and noon to 8 p.m. on Sunday. Please do not park on the local shopping center lots. There is ample parking on the field on St. Charles Street or at St. Ferdinand Park and walk the path to the festival.

of Flowers Queen to reign over the fes- ing at the Knights of Columbus Pavilion tival activities for the coming year. In following the parade at 4 p.m. on Sunaddition to the queen, a first runner-up day, May 6. and three Special Maids will be selected.

Continued on page 6 Everyone is invited to attend the crown-

Movie Talk

See Movie page 9

Valley of Flowers Queen and Court Crowning

Thirteen high school juniors are competing for the honor of being the Valley 8 School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Learn & Play . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Movie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

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Community News

May 2, 2012

Proclaim His Name Editor’s note: Community News is proud to feature a monthly column by Rance Thomas, Ph.D., professor, ordained elder and president of North County Churches Uniting for Racial Harmony and Justice.

What is happening with respect to religion, or more specifically Christianity, in this country? There are an increasing number of organizations and individuals who are attempting to eliminate a reference to God and Jesus in the public arena. It has been reported recently that some organizations and individuals are attempting to eliminate a reference to God, Jesus, and scripture on the public airways, radio and television. It is reported that they are attempting to do this and prevent radio and television evangelists from appearing in these media. If successful, this would mean that all of the favorite religious leaders would not be heard from by the general public. This would include Joel Osteen and many others.

In the past, some have attempted to eliminate the phrase “In God We Trust” from our coins and to remove a reference to God in the Pledge of Allegiance. Some years ago, there was a successful effort to eliminate prayer in schools, and in some cases have barred religious oriented student groups from holding their meetings on high school campuses. However, this has been challenged and the challenges have been successful in some cases. Further, just recently some have been successful in preventing clergy from mentioning and praying to God at military funerals conducted in military cemeteries.

Why are some individuals so afraid to have a reference to God or Jesus in the public square? Are their attacks justified or misguided? Since our country was founded upon religious freedom, why can they not accept this as constitutional and part of our way of life?

For Christians this presents a special problem and concern. If they deny the existence of God or Jesus Christ, they are going against God’s commandment. For example, we are told by God in Deuteronomy Chapter 6 verses 6-11 that, “I am the Lord your God,

who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery. You should have no other God before me…..I, the Lord your God am a jealous God…… you shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God for the Lord will not hold anyone guiltless who misuse his Rance Thomas, Ph.D. name.” Further, in Chapter 11 verses 16-19, he tells them and us, “Be careful, or you will be enticed to turn away, and worship other gods and bow down to them. Thus the Lord’s anger will turn against you….Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your forehead. Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.”

What we are told here is to never give up proclaiming the presence of God and our Savior Jesus Christ no matter what we do or what others around us do. In spite of these attacks there is hope and the book of 1 Peter Chapter 4 verses 12-14 tells us, “Dear friends do not be surprised at the fierce ordeal that come on you to test you as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice in as much as you participate in the suffering of Christ. If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed for the Spirit of glory and God rests on you.” Further, in verse 16, we are told that, “if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed but praise God that you bear that name.”

Therefore, we are told by God never to miss the opportunity to proclaim his name and give him the honor and glory for our existence and his love and goodness. He will see us through any suffering and attacks that we will experience at times if we remain steadfast to his word.

Hospice Needs Volunteers Everyday people say, “I would like to be a part of helping someone.” Hospice is a special kind of care designed to provide sensitivity and support for people in the final phase of a terminal illness. Heartland Hospice’s goal is to provide palliative and supportive services to meet physical, psychological, social and spiritual needs of patients and their families in a health care facility or other residential settings. Volunteers can provide one-on-one attention to residents who are lonely or cut off from their families, thereby reducing feelings of isolation and contributing to their sense of belonging. The benefits are endless when one can make a difference.

Heartland depends on its Hospice volunteers to help them provide the extra love and care the clients and their families need at this time in their lives. Volunteers stay with the patient so family members can take a break, reading scripture to patients, or holding their hand. All assignments are in close proximity to your home, work or school. You can donate as little or as much of your time as you desire. Please contact Virginia at 314.453.0990 if you would like to bring something special into someone’s life. Be sure to inquire about the next training class.

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May 2, 2012

Community News

2012 St. Louis Fine Print, Rare Book and Paper Arts Fair The Mercantile Library presents the St. Louis Fine Print, Rare Book and Paper Arts Fair May 4 – 6. The Mercantile Library is the oldest library west of the Mississippi and is a national treasure trove of visual Americana.

“We are pleased that the Print and Rare Book Fair can aid in helping further the library’s collections development and conservation programs,” said Ruth A. Bryant, chair of the Fair Committee.

The 25 participating dealers include: The Philadelphia Print Shop, the Old Print Shop, Platt Fine Arts, Kodner Galleries, Rod Shene Books Art and Ephemera, 309 Antiques, Anthony Garnett Fine Books, Susan Teller Galleries, Clark Graves Antiques, Columbia Books, Daven Anderson Watercolors, Green Gate Farms Rare Books, Firecracker Press, Paper Birds Studio, Worthington

Galleries, Arader Galleries of Philadelphia, and Judith Haudrich Antique Prints. The dealers display works by old master, American and contemporary artists, posters, maps, photographs, and rare books. Special events include a silent auction Friday evening and free demonstrations on Sunday featuring watercolor painting, book binding and press printing.

The St. Louis Fine Print, Rare Book and Paper Arts Fair opens in the J.C. Penney Center at the University of Missouri-St. Louis on Friday May 4 with a Preview night. Tickets are $50 each or George Caleb Bingham, The County Election, 1854, Courtesy of Kodner Gallery, St. Louis. two for $90. General admission for Saturday and Sunday, May 5 and 6, is $5, and students with a valid id pay $1.50. For more information call 314.516.6740 or visit printfair.umsl.edu for a map and location of ample free parking.

Black Jack Refunds Save the City and Residents $190,000 At the last, 2012 Black Jack City Council Meeting, a member from the Investment Firm Stifel Nicolaus informed the mayor and the city council that the refunding of the city’s bonds will save Black Jack and its residents $190,000. (The term refunding is equivalent to a lower refinancing rate) .The city was also commended by Stifel Nicholaus on receiving an A1 rating, which is very unusual for a city the size of Black Jack and indicative of the excellent management of the city’s finances and future potential. Bob Ballsrud and Erick Creach from Gilmore and Bell, the underwriters for the bonds, commended the city’s staff on their hard work and diligence in cooperating with them through the rigorous process of refunding the bonds.

Mayor Norm McCourt stated, “I am pleased that we were able to refund the bonds and provide a substantial savings to the residents of the city. I was particularly grateful in receiving the A1 bond rating for the city and the comments we received on the excellent financial position of the city and its operations.”

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Community News

May 2, 2012

Hazelwood Fire Department Renews Technical Rescue Training for Certification Members of the Hazelwood Fire Department recently completed a course in the ROCO Rescue Training program, which is designed to give firefighters the tools and skills needed to manage a rescue from a high angle such as a commercial building rooftop or a confined space such as a holding tank or deep culvert. This class not only provided a complete refresher for firefighters who had already taken the course before, but also involved new recruits who had not yet received the training for certification.

“We brought in a professional trainer with ‘Chief Instructor’ status from the ROCO Rescue company to oversee the training for our department,” said Hazelwood Fire Chief Dave Radel. “Battalion Chief Keith Shields has worked with us before. He is a consummate professional and has a great rapport with our firefighters.”

Shields works for a municipal fire department near Vancouver, BC, Canada, where technical rescues are made on a regular basis. During his off-duty time, he serves as an

instructor for the ROCO Rescue company training firefighters and rescuers all over North America. Shields provided four, 10-hour training days for each of the three Hazelwood crews to complete this certification.

With local business support, Hazelwood firefighters practiced rescues from the roof of the former Pillsbury building on Pershall Road. This required precision rigging of ropes and pulleys, as well as securing a simulated victim (one of the firefighters) to lower or hoist to safety. Confined space rescues were simulated using a large training prop on loan from Ameren Missouri. These types of rescues require a further layer of protective equipment and training for firefighters since these small areas often have poor air quality and other hazards associated with their normal use.

With their enhanced skills, Hazelwood firefighters will now continue with ongoing ROCO training as part of their routine cycle of training exercises on a regular basis.

Arianna String Quartet to Perform Famous Last Words at Touhill The Arianna String Quartet (ASQ) will perform Famous Last Words, featuring guest violist Victoria Chiang, on Friday, May 4, for its last concert in its 2011-12 St. Louis concert season at the Touhill Performing Arts Center. It begins at 8 p.m. in the E. Desmond & Mary Ann Lee Theater.

The audience will experience a musical odyssey through final works for string quartet written by three leviathans of the quartet repertoire. Mendelssohn: Andante and Scherzo, Op.81; Dvořák: String Quintet in E-flat Major, Op. 97, with guest violist Victoria Chiang; and Beethoven: Quartet in F Major, Op.135.

Victoria Chiang has performed as soloist, recitalist and chamber musician across North America, Europe and Asia. She is on the faculty of the Peabody Conser-

vatory in Baltimore, MD, the Aspen Music Festival, and is a founding member of the Aspen String Trio. She has given solo performances in Carnegie Hall's Weill Recital Hall and at various International Viola Congresses. “…her playing was notable for its sheer size, dusky beauty, remarkable flowing legato and flawless execution,” said the The Denver Post.

Each ASQ concert is an E3! performance, Explore – Experience – Engage. E3! preshow discussions, which begin 50 minutes prior to the performance, and post-show receptions featuring fine coffee and bakery treats are free to ticket holders.

Tickets for ASQ: Famous Last Words are $23. They

are on sale now at the Touhill Performing Arts Center Ticket Office; online at www.touhill.org; or by phone at 314.516.4949. The Touhill’s Ticket Office is located at One University Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63121.

DeSmet Bowling DeSmet Retirement Community residents enjoy friendly competition, especially when it comes to Wii bowling! Ken Rogles recently bowled a 292, and Grace Dodd bowled a 296.

Administrator Rebecca Larson awarded each bowler a trophy, and their names and scores were added to a plaque that hangs in the community room. DeSmet hosts daily bowling games and offers lessons to new community members.

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May 2, 2012

Community News

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Northwinds Concert Band Performs May 5

Oskar Bihler, Conductor of Germany's Musikkapelle Roethenbach

Northwinds Concert Band, under the direction of Larry Marsh, will present a thrilling concert at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 5 at the Florissant Civic Center Theatre. The upbeat program will feature an exciting mix of spirited music from the 60-piece ensemble, including big band tunes, music from the movies, pop tunes, and light classics. Highlights will include an exciting new piece called See Rock City. You’ve seen the signs, now hear the music!

A special Cinco de Mayo treat will be provided by Hadley Haux on euphonium as he gives a virtuoso performance of La Cucaracha. The band will play a moving arrangement about Viet Nam called “Mekong,” and two great medleys of works by John Williams, featuring his all time favorite film scores.

Northwinds is very pleased to welcome Oskar Bihler, who will fly in from Germany to conduct the American premiere of a thrilling new work by noted composer David Shaffer entitled “At the Red Creek.” The piece celebrates more than 1000 years of history of the small German town called Roethenbach (Red Creek).

Throw in bright, spirited overtures, a little ragtime and a polka by Henry Mancini and you have a guaranteed evening of fun by the best community band in St. Louis. What a great way to spend an evening during the Valley of Flowers Festival!

The concert is presented in cooperation with the German Culture Center-UMSL. Northwinds is a program of FergusonFlorissant’s Community Education Department.

Mathews-Dickey Hosts Soft Opening at Bob Russell Park Congressman William Lacy Clay, Jr. joined Mathews-Dickey at 10 a.m., Saturday, April 21, for a soft opening of its new Bob Russell Park satellite location, 1080 St. Cyr Rd., St. Louis, MO 63137. Youth Club members helped unveil the first four “Field of Dreams” naming rights partner plaques: Centric Group, Johnny Londoff Chevrolet, McDonald’s and Paul Cerame Ford-Kia. Bellefontaine Neighbors Mayor Robert Doerr provided remarks and a letter was read from County Executive Charlie Dooley welcoming the Club to North County at the one-hour ceremony.

Mathews-Dickey President, CEO & Co-Founder Martin Luther Mathews and City of Florissant Economic Director Bob Russell, Jr. threw out the first pitches, prior to youth exhibition baseball games on Fields 5 and 9. Afterwards, AmeriCorps and Commerce Bank volunteers conducted a beautification day at the concession stand and around the fields.

“Ever since the news spread that the Club was coming to Bellefontaine Neighbors, children and parents have been knocking down our doors eager to sign up,” Mathews said. “We’re very grateful to the city of Bellefontaine and all of our community partners for helping us revitalize this field to give youth the vision, courage and determination to achieve success.”

The park grounds opened to the tune of Lee Greenwood’s “God Bless the USA” by out-

standing Club alumnus and professional recording artist Jamie “King James” Dennis. Veteran Broadcaster Bill Wilkerson emceed the festivities, and Park Coordinator Jay Washington, Sr. highlighted plans to regenerate youth interest in playing baseball, boost Earn & Learn opportunities for officials and offered training in grounds keeping and gardening.

The 30 acres were officially given to the Club by Russell and the Surrey Lane Athletic Association on Oct. 18, 2011.

Since then, the Club has leveraged community partnerships to generate excitement and momentum. One hundred fifty Harris-Stowe students conducted a Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. beautification day at the park to clear brush, trash and trim tall grass. Ameren conducted a major tree-trimming effort and worked with its partners to replace dugout structures, repair backstops, infield renovations and general cleanup. Financial and in kind donations are still being sought to rebuild the concession stand, restore the fields and operate the sports and Earn & Learn programs.

Mathews-Dickey looks forward to maintaining, operating and upgrading the park to include a number of smaller baseball diamonds, and build a major league-style baseball field and football field. These programs will draw youth from Bellefontaine Neighbors, the City of St. Louis, Dellwood, Florissant, Hazelwood, Jen-

Bellefontaine Neighbors Mayor Robert Doerr, Martin Mathews, Congressman Lacy Clay, Chief Robert Pruett and Bob Russell were on hand to open Bob Russell Park.

nings, Moline Acres, Pine Lawn, Riverview, Unincorporated St. Louis County, University City and Wellston.

Mathews-Dickey is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) United Way of Greater St. Louis member agency serving more than 40,000 young men and women from a 50-mile radius. The Club’s philosophy is that “academics and athletics can and should coexist.” For more information, contact Barbara A. Washington

or Bill Fronczak at 314.382.5952, ext. 234.

For information about signing

up as an individual or team, call 314.382.5952, ext. 227.

www.golfclubofflorissant.com

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Community News

May 2, 2012

Valley of Flowers 2012 “Valley of Flowers Celebrates 50 Years of Festivals”

Queen Candidates

Delaney Callan

McCluer North High School Sponsored by NCCU

Rosati-Kain High School Sponsored by North County CYC

Hazelwood West High School Sponsored by Accessible Play Inc.

North County Christian School Sponsored by Gary’s Auto Service

Ashley Norton

Paola Ramirez

Katie Schonoff

Alyson Schroeder

Jackie Schultz

McCluer North High School Sponsored by Edible Arrangements

Hazelwood Central High School Sponsored by Dooley’s Florist & Gifts

Duchesne High School Sponsored by Old Town Donut Shop

McCluer North High School Sponsored by Florissant Rotary Club

Incarnate Word Academy Sponsored by Hendel’s Market Café

Kim Thro Villa Duchesne Sponsored by Sacred Heart Parish

Sadie Votruba Duchesne High School Sponsored by J. Goeke Produce

Parade

Featuring more than 120 units, the 50th Valley of Flowers parade will be very special! All parade units will depart from their designated line up positions at the same time. Since 1963, the Valley of Flowers parade has taken place traditionally on Sunday. This year, the parade begins at 1:45 p.m. on Sunday, May 6.

The parade features floats, decorated and antique cars, Valley of Flowers queen candidates, former queens, marching bands, horses, dogs and many other unique units. The parade will travel west on Parker Road to New Florissant Road. Walking units made up of District 9 Girl Scouts and Rhythmettes leave from Little Woods Park, Parker Road and New Florissant Road traveling south to rue St. Francois. At the same time, dance and gymnastic groups begin at the Government Building lot and Brown Street. The parade will continue west on rue St. Francois, turning south again on St. Ferdinand Street to Washington Street.

The parade will conclude at the Knights of Columbus grounds, where the queen candidates will be presented on stage for the crowning of the Valley of Flowers Queen and her court. The awards for the parade winners will be announced prior to the crowning. Come early to get good seats for one of the largest parades in St. Louis County.

Volksmarch

The St. Louis Stuttgart Volksmarch Club will spon-

Karyn Jones

Monica Wilson

Madison Kirk

Lauren Lemp

Courtney Brooks

Duchesne High School Sponsored by Kent Miller Photography

Best of Luck to Everyone from the

Incarnate Word Academy Sponsored by Don Henefer Jewelers

sor this Volksmarch (People’s Walk) that is a noncompetitive, recreational walk over a predetermined route and through interesting or scenic areas. It is not a contest of speed or endurance but rather a leisurely stroll.

The Volksmarch will be held on Saturday, May 5.

Participants may register between 8 a.m. and noon in the “Pavilion” located behind the Girardier House at 601 St. Charles Street (Old Town Partners/Valley of Flowers Office).

car show set against the backdrop of the historic business district of Old Town Florissant. The car show will be held from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, May 5 along rue St. Francois. There will be 50 classes featuring approximately 200 cars.

Registration for the show is $10 in advance and $12 on the day of the event. Trophies will be awarded at 3 p.m. For pre-registration and information, call 314.837.0033. If necessary, a rain date has been planned for May 12.

All visitors are encouraged to visit Florissant’s most famous landmark, the Old St. Ferdinand Shrine located at the foot of rue St. Francois. The Shrine is the oldest Catholic Church in the area that was known as the Louisiana Territory. The convent wing was built in 1819 and the church proper was completed in 1820.

During the festival, the Friends of Old St. Ferdinand will host a variety of fund raising activities with proceeds benefitting the preservation of this fascinating historic landmark. Activities at the Shrine will be held from 4 – 8:30 p.m. on Friday, May 4; from 10 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 5, and from noon to 8 p.m. on Sunday, May 6. Tours of the Shrine will be available both Saturday and Sunday from 1 – 4 p.m.

The tradition of hosting high school baseball games continues during the Valley of Flowers Festival week.

This year three games will be played at Koch Park field #1. The schedule is as follows: Friday, May 4 – 7 p.m. McCluer North vs. McCluer Saturday, May 5– 2 p.m. Dubourg vs. Trinity

Old St. Ferdinand Shrine

Car Show

Florissant Old Town Partners, a not-for-profit organization, invites you to come and enjoy a spectacular

High School Baseball Games

Pitch, Hit and Run

Children ages 7-14 are invited to participate in the Pitch, Hit and Run competition on Thursday, May 3 at Koch Park Field #2. Competitors compete in three stations: pitching, hitting and running with a chance to advance to Sectionals then Team Championships! This program is free but requires pre-registration. To register, call the JFK community Center at 314.921.4250.

Continued on next page

May 2, 2012

Community News

Valley of Flowers 2012 “Valley of Flowers Celebrates 50 Years of Festivals”

McCluer North 3rd Annual 5K Run/Walk

On Saturday, May 12, McCluer North High School will proudly sponsor the 3rd annual 5K Run/Walk in its efforts to promote health and wellness for its employees, students and community members. Race day registration will be held between 8 and 9 a.m.

The entry fee is $20. Registration forms are available online at www.florissantvalleyofflowers.com

Home Grown by the Gardeners of Florissant

The Gardeners of Florissant organization’s plant sale will offer a great selection of plants to bring life to your home and garden. Plan to arrive early to benefit from the greatest selection of flowers, vegetables, herbs and house plants. The sale will be held from noon – 9 p.m. on Friday, and from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Saturday on the ice rink Pavilion at the James J. Eagan Center. Additional information is available at www. gardenersofflorissant.com

Craft Fair and Flea Market

The annual Pre-Mothers Day Craft Fair will be on the ice rink pavilion of the James J. Eagan Center from noon – 9 p.m. on Friday, May 4; and from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. on Saturday, May 5. Local crafters and vendors bring a wide variety of products that make for the perfect Mother’s Day gift. Returning favorites include: jewelry, one-of-kind gift baskets, gourmet food mixes, unique accessories and garden ornaments plus much more.

Florissant Old Town Partners will host its annual Flea Market on the lower level of the James J. Eagan Center from noon – 9 p.m. on Friday, May 4; and from 9 a.m.

– 6 p.m. on Saturday, May 5.

Family Festival of Fun

The James J. Eagan Center will host many activities for young children and families. This is a one-of-a-kind celebration and all the performances are free. Performances will be held from 5 – 10 p.m. on Friday, and from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. on Saturday.

Visitors will find children’s entertainers on the Eagan grounds as well as entertainers who appeal to all ages. A Hispanic Festival Band will continue the music, dancing and food sales until 10 p.m. The festival features ongoing performances in large tents and on the grounds.

These free performances include storytellers, puppeteers, music, comedy and much more.

Dog Show and Canine Demonstrations

Children 13 and younger are invited to bring their favorite dog and enter our contests. Competitions begin at 3 p.m. and there is no charge.

Trophies will be awarded for several categories. Choose which contests that you want to enter your dog in when you register. Contests include: Best Costume, Best

Kisser, Fastest, Best Tail Wagger and Crowd Favorite.

Pre-register at www.florissantvalleyofflowers.com or call 314.837.0033.

The Florissant Police Department will bring the K-9 Dog for a demonstration at 2:30 p.m. All dog events will be held in the open area of Florissant Valley Park near the inflatable rides.

Tot Wheels Parade

Kids up to age 6 are encouraged to ride bikes, trikes, wagons or other wheels decorated for the parade theme: Tot Wheels Celebrates 50 Years of the Valley of Flowers Festivasl. This free event, which is fun for kids and adults, includes clowns, a gift bag and light refreshments for all who participate. Register Saturday morning at 9 a.m.

The parade steps off at 9:30 a.m.

Prizes will be awarded to the best theme

decorated unit (child + wheels). The parade is videotaped for broadcast on Florissant Cable TV channel 992. There is no charge for registration and you do not need to be a Florissant resident to participate.

Pre-register by calling 314.837.0033 or online at www.florissantvalleyofflowers.com.

Pretty Baby Photo Contest

The contest is for children 2 years or younger. The winners will receive a plaque and gift basket at the awards ceremony on Sunday, May 6 preceding the crowning of the queen and her court at the Knights of Columbus Pavilion.

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Community News

May 2, 2012

Ritenour Names New Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources and General Administration The Ritenour School District is pleased to announce the appointment of Sharonica Hardin as Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources and General Administration effective July 1, 2012.

Hardin joins Ritenour from the St. Louis Public Schools (SLPS), where she has served as Chief Human Resources Officer since April of 2007. In that role, Hardin manages all human resources functions, including staff selection and recruitment, employee relations, benefits administration and performance management for more than 4,500 employees.

Hardin has more than 15 years of educational experience as a teacher and administrator. After beginning her career as a classroom teacher in the St. Louis Public

Schools (1997-2001), Hardin was named the first principal at Adams Elementary School (SLPS) from 2001-2005. From 2005-2006, she served as Vice President for Education for the Saint Louis Science Center. In Jan. 2007, Hardin was hired as Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer for the St. Louis Public Schools.

Hardin earned an undergraduate degree in elementary education from HarrisStowe State University; a master’s degree in education administration from Saint Louis University; and is currently enrolled in a doctoral degree program at the University of Missouri – St. Louis. Hardin holds certification in Professional in Human Resource Management (PHR) from the Society for Human Resource Management.

She also participated in the Harvard University Public Education Leadership Project in 2007 and 2009.

She replaces Associate Superintendent Dr. Jack Williams, who is retiring after a 42-year educational career, including the past 26 years in Ritenour.

HSD to Begin New Student Enrollment on July 2 for 2012-2013 The Hazelwood School District will begin enrollment for new students on July 2 for the upcoming school year. Enrollment will continue throughout the summer. The first day of school is August 13.

Parents/guardians may enroll students from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. No appointment is needed. Enrollment will be held at the HSD Learning Center, 15955 New Halls Ferry Road in Florissant.

Families must reside in the District to enroll. Other items needed for enrollment include: • Original state-issue birth certificate for the student • Current immunization records for the student • Transcript for students in grades 9-12 or • Most recent report card for students in grades K-8 • Discipline record from previous school, grades 6-12 • Current drivers’ license or state ID for the parent/

guardian • Proof of residency For more information, please call 314.953.5141.

Enrollment will not take place on July 4. HSD offices and schools are closed for Independence Day. Enrollment will resume on July 5.

Paul Cerame Ford Invites You Trinity WYSE Team Brings Home to “Drive One” 4 MC, MSB State Championship

Ford Motor Company and Paul Cerame Ford are partnering to help raise up to $6,000 in support of McCluer and McCluer SouthBerkeley High Schools as part of the Drive One 4 UR School program. Members of the Florissant, Ferguson, Calverton Park and Berkeley communities will have the opportunity to raise money for the high schools by test driving a Ford vehicle. Ford Motor Company and Paul Cerame Ford will donate $20 to the schools for every person (one per household) that test drives a 2012 Taurus, Fusion, Fiesta or Mustang. The proceeds will be used for student scholarships, activities and Project Graduation 2013.

The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 12 at McCluer High School, 1896 S. New Florissant Road in Florissant.

Each test drive takes five minutes.

Participants must be 18 or older and have a valid driver’s license.

Limit one test drive per household.

At the annul Worldwide Youth in Science and Engineering state finals on April 17 at the Missouri University of Science and Technology in Rolla, the Trinity Catholic High School team finished first in the Medium School Division to capture the 2012 State Championship. This is the first WYSE state championship for Trinity after placing in the state finals seven of the last eight years. The Trinity team scored 487 points out of a possible 500 team points. Blair Oaks High School and Notre Dame High School finished second and third respectively.

Individual award winners for Trinity were seniors Mike Hilmes from St. Ferdinand (1st in English and 2nd in Math), David Redden from St. Angela Merici (1st in Engineering Graphics), Matt Colonna from St. Rose (2nd in Enginner-

ing Graphics) and Connor Walsh from St. Angela Merici (1st in Computer Science), juniors Anna Duban from St. Angela Merici (2nd in Physics) and Matt Koeller from St. Rose (3rd in Physics).

Other team members for Trinity were seniors Sarah Dawson from Blessed Teresa of Calcutta, Jeff Guerrant from St. Rose, Rachel Hunt from Christ Light of the Nations and Dillon Porzel from St. Rose, juniors Kayla Bulva from St. Norbert, Kyle Walsh from St. Angela Merici and Nolan Walsh from St. Angela Merici, sophomores Katie Driskill from St. Rose, Mike Lacy from Christ Light of the Nations and Mehghan O’Donnell from St. Rose and freshmen Alan Scheibel from St. Angela Merici and John Hilmes from St. Ferdinand. The Trinity team was coached by chemistry and physics teacher Frank Cange.

HSD Announces Summer Sports Camp The Hazelwood School District will offer summer sports camps in basketball, soccer, volleyball, football and more. Camps are offered for middle school and high school age students.

The instructional camps are scheduled to begin in June. Camps will take place at each high school in the District. Students may register for more than one program if the dates and times do not conflict. Enrollment will close after the start date of each camp.

Registration forms are available online at www.hazelwoodschools.org.

Payments must be made by cash or money order, payable to Hazelwood School District. Registration forms and payments should be mailed to the school where the camp is scheduled.

Rotary Club of Florissant to Award Scholarships

www.stlouislipo.com

www.beefeatersonline.com

Dr. Paul Detrick, president of the Rotary Club of Florissant recently announced that the club will be awarding four scholarships to seniors in the North County area. Each $2000 scholarship may be used for college or a vocational school.

Applications may be obtained from www.florissantrotary.org and must be received by the club no later than May 8.

Learn & Play

May 2, 2012

Community News

9

Statepoint Crossword Theme: Pop Music

Youngest Pick:

“‘Horsefly and Honeybee” Occasionally a relationship can get thorny. Buddies hit rough spots in the road and have disagreements with their pals. Two insects have to reach deep to settle a quarrel in “Horsefly and Honeybee,” a simple story with sunshiny illustrations by Riley Cecil.

Honeybee’s wings are dragging, and the buzzer decides to grab some shuteye in a bright-yellow lily.

But hold on there! That flower’s taken. A horsefly has claimed the blossom as its resting place. Two winged wonders in one spot are too many. Before you can say nay, horsefly and honeybee come to blows, each losing a wing in the fray.

Now the insects are really on the outs. With only one wing each they can’t fly, and so must resort to hoofing it over hill and dale. That’s all well and good until a pond appears. How is honeybee going to get across the water?

The bee receives a ride from a pesky green frog that deposits honeybee on a lily pad, right next to you know who. Now the two feuding friends must cooperate to save their skins, to keep from being ingested by the froggy fiends.

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. Copright 2012.

ACROSS 1. Gain access to, 2 words 6. *1965's "Get ___ My Cloud" 9. Benedict XVI, e.g.

13. African antelope 14. Equal to 10 liters 15. Was furious 16. "Happy Endings" actor Adam _____ 17. CSI evidence 18. Stand on end 19. Chews out 21. *Famous for her "Umbrella" 23. Likewise 24. "...partridge in a ____ tree..."

25. *Madonna's controversial garment 28. Viking writing symbol 30. Interstellar cloud 35. "A River ____ Through It" 37. Cause of Titanic's demise 39. Like a mad dog

40. "Do ____ others as you would do..."

41. Tennessee footballer 43. *Aguilera and Carey can hit a high one 44. Yuletides 46. Winter Olympic event 47. "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" author 48. Army's offensive, pl.

50. Remote Automated Weather Station 52. Used at start of new hole 53. Unstressed-stressed pattern in poetry 55. Pig's home 57. *If she "were a boy..."

61. Road less traveled 64. In the midst 65. ___ and feather 67. EU money, pl.

69. American poet James Whitcomb _____ 70. Geological period 71. Narrow mountain ridge 72. Benevolent and Protective Order of ____

73. *The ___ Hot Chili Peppers 74. *She wakes up "in the morning feeling like P. Diddy" DOWN 1. As opposed to Gross Domestic Product 2. Unfledged hawk 3. Bath powder 4. Administer 5. *"You belong with" her?

6. Betting probability 7. *Belieber, e.g.

8. Bell-bottoms bottom 9. Between larva and adult 10. Sign of something to come 11. Philadelphia's Ivy League member 12. Cocoyam 15. Hitler, e.g.

20. "No ____ about it" 22. 007 creator

24. Throw out of kilter 25. *He'd "catch a grenade for ya" 26. A sentence that goes too long 27. Poker stakes 29. First man on the moon 31. *E Street ____ 32. Lusitania's destroyer 33. Gracefully slender 34. *She "could have had it all rolling in the deep" 36. Worn from walking 38. *She "was born this way" 42. Gossipy 45. Scrooge-like 49. Cul de ___

Getting to Know “The Avengers” For nearly 50 years, the cry of “Avengers Assemble” has been heard in the Marvel Comics Universe. Created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, this superhero team brought together several of Marvel’s popular superhero characters.

In honor of the May 4 release of “Marvel’s The Avengers,” here are some additional details about the comic book versions of these superheroes: Hawkeye (Clint Barton): This hero actually was considered a villain when he first appeared on the scene.

Played by Jeremy Renner in the movie, Hawkeye is a skilled archer who sometimes uses specialized arrowheads in the heat of battle.

Orphaned at a young age, Barton was mentored by Trick Shot and became a circus performer. Later in life, Iron Man helped sponsor his Photo courtesy of Marvel membership in the Avengers.

The Black Widow (Natasha Romanoff): A skilled spy and seductress, Romanoff was trained by the Russian government and took on the mantle of the Black Widow. In the Marvel Comics Universe, Romanoff has

since become loyal to America and has been an important part of the Avengers. She and Hawkeye have a romantic history that may or may not make it into the first “Avengers” movie.

Thor: The cinematic version of the Norse God of Thunder, played by Chris Hemsworth, is somewhat different from the comic book version. The movies lack his alter ego, Dr. Donald Blake.

When Odin punished the rebellious, headstrong Thor, he sent him to Earth and gave him the identity of the lame surgeon. Blake transformed into Thor by tapping his cane upon the ground, which would also become the mighty hammer Mjolnir.

The Hulk (Bruce Banner): Mark Ruffalo takes over the role of Dr. Banner, a scientist who was trying to recreate the Super Soldier Formula that gave birth to Captain America. In the comics, however, Banner was actually working on a secret gamma

51. Mean characteristic 54. Approximately 1.094 yards 56. *James Blunt: "_____ Beautiful" 57. *____naked Ladies, band 58. Short for Emilia 59. Nutrition of an embryo 60. Dollar bills 61. Half of Brangelina 62. Greek god of war 63. Shakespearean "does" 66. "We ___ Marshall" 68. *"Under the boardwalk, down by the ___" See answers page 13

By Steve Bryan

bomb project for the government. In order to save a teenager’s life, Banner rushed onto the testing ground and was bombarded with gamma radiation. The Hulk is normally strong, but rage can significantly boost his strength levels.

Iron Man (Tony Stark): Robert Downey, Jr. has done an incredible job as Tony Stark, but his appearances as Iron Man have not explored the character in detail. During the 1980’s, for instance, the story arc “Demon in a Bottle” showed Stark’s battle with alcoholism, one that forced him to lose his company and superhero identity.

Captain America (Steven Rogers): Chris Evans is picture perfect as Steve Rogers, the brave young man who takes the Super Soldier Formula. For a time, however, Rogers refused to take direct orders from the government. He resigned his post as Captain America to become the free agent known simply as the Captain.

10

Community News

May 2, 2012

Sports You See... With Gary B. 19 Days Until Rascal Baseball Many New Faces on Roster The River City Rascals Professional Baseball Team has appeared in the championship series of the Frontier League for three straight seasons.

Because players are only allowed to stay so many years in the league and trades exist constantly, you will see many new names on the 2012 roster.

For more information on this subject, go to www.RiverCityRascals.com and the Rascal Season Preview article.

Thanks to newly hired broadcaster Jason Troop, director of Broadcasting, for information on last week’s Rascal article. ~~~Coming all together Rams Change Name of Practice Facility Will be Difficult not to Say Rams Park The facility has been located at #1 Rams Way in Earth City since the team arrived from Los Angeles. The official name has changed several times over the years as companies try to associate their business with the St. Louis Rams.

Starting with the 2012 NFL Draft, the facility will now be known as the ContinuityX Training Center.

For the next four years ContinuityX will have exclusive sponsorship rights to team practice jerseys, with its logo appearing on the jerseys and signage at the Edward Jones Dome.

“We are very excited about our new partnership with the St. Louis Rams,” said David Godwin, chief executive officer, ContinuityX. “We feel that it is an honor to be involved with a long established and successful franchise like the Rams. Our four-year agreement will provide opportunities for both organizations to develop a strategic brand that will serve both local markets and an ever growing global

Sports

environment.”

“The Rams are thrilled to partner with a burgeoning company like ContinuityX,” said Bob Reif, chief revenue officer, St. Louis Rams. “The corporate name could not be more appropriate for our organizational efforts as we continue to strive for ‘Continuity’ and ‘eXcellence’ both on and off the field.”

ContinuityX Solutions Incorporated is a unique provider of business continuity, disaster recovery solutions and IT Technology services provider. ~~~Now you know Rams Pick Defensive Tackle 1st in the Draft Comes from LSU Surprising many football fans in the Lou, the St. Louis Rams picked defensive tackle Michael Brockers in the first round of the 2012 NFL draft. Originally the team had the second round pick but traded positions and dropped to the sixth pick and at the very last moment dropped to the 14th position. Without going into details, the team picks up compensation for future draft picks by dropping two times. ~~~Time will tell WANTED: Sports Teams as Guest on Radio/Internet Show 590 The Fan KFNS The sports weekly radio show SPORTS RADIO STL that broadcasts every Thursday from 6-7 p.m. on KFNS has an opportunity for sports teams to be guests LIVE on selected shows over the next few months. The broadcast originates at different restaurants throughout St. Louis and St. Charles county area and you can bring your entire team. Selected individuals can choose to be interviewed.

The show will be filmed so you will receive the link to the archived program.

Sponsors for these shows are also being accepted.

For more information go to www.SportsRadioSTL.com ~~~Limited availability

“Over the Fence”

Editorial

Life is What We Made It A friend recently mentioned playing Monopoly when he was young. It brought back memories of marathon Monopoly games we played during the long winter months of my youth. They sometimes lasted a week. We played between other activities like school and chores.

When one of us finally approached bankruptcy, we loaned him or her money to stay in the game. There was much arguing, yelling, laughing and crying. Such was life in the days before electronics turned children into overweight zombies with Twinkie goo on their keyboards.

Summer beckoned us outdoors and baseball was

the main activity, although I admit we would have played in a blizzard if we could have found enough crazies to brave the elements. These often lasted until players quit because they didn’t like the calls or were too worn out to continue. All ages, sizes and both genders played. We didn’t discriminate.

We had cow pastures to play in. Bases were whatever we could find and sometimes it was a dried cow flop. We usually played softball because it was safer for the smaller kids. Getting hit by a line drive hardball when you were 7 years old wasn’t healthy.

What we learned from all this Monopoly, softball and the other games and activities of our youth was how to deal with success, failure and each other. We stayed much healthier because of the outdoor activity as well.

Even in winter we had haylofts in barns full of rectangular hay bales to make forts and tunnels. We also had hills for sleigh rides and ponds and creeks for ice skating. I raised Beagles and hunted rabbits that flourished in briars and brush piles until summer when they snuck into our vegetable gardens to nibble their way to

fat and sassy.

We rode single speed bicycles on gravel roads that ate tires as if they were filet mignon. We learned to remove the wheel and the tire’s inner tube, patch it and then reassemble everything in less time than it takes to milk a cow.

Lawns were mowed with non-motorized reel mowers that required pushing. A power mower was a luxury to be longed for just as two-car families and indoor plumbing.

We didn’t know we were poor, at least until we were in high school. That was when I discovered the neat patches on my jeans didn’t fit in with the trends, such as they were. My mother made my sister’s clothing and patched my blue jeans where the knees were worn and torn. Store-bought clothing was another luxury. Hand-me-downs were a way of life for my sisters. I had no brothers so I fared marginally better, but who cares about clothing when a boy sees a baseball game that needs a player or a sled that needs riding on a snowy day.

Bumps, bruises and contusions were taken care of at home. Only severe injuries such as broken bones required a trip to the town’s only doctor. When I was 5 years old, he would stop by after seeing patients all day to see if my pneumonia was healing from the new miracle drug of the era he called penicillin.

When I was a senior in high school, we moved to a nearby house with indoor plumbing. I thought I had died and gone to heaven.

Unfortunately, with four sisters, I needed an appointment for the bathroom.

Then I grew up, married and produced three wonderful daughters. I still needed an appointment to get in the bathroom but hey…life is what we made it.

Editorial

May 2, 2012

Community News

11

Reading license plates can get you in an XIDENT

Are you as easily distracted as I am? Maybe I shouldn’t admit it, because now police officers will keep an extra close eye on my vehicle when I’m running my errands around town.

Most of the time, I’m distracted by personalized license plates. I’ve been known to turn my attention away from the road and on to some funky license plates.

We moved from Illinois 13 years ago. Back then, Illinois personalized license plates cost the same as a state-issued plate. “Per­sonalized” means that the plate contains both letters and numbers. “Vanity” plates were an extra $75 (for the first year only) and contain only letters or only numbers.

Back to being easily distracted (see what I mean?).

Have you ever been driving and spotted a license plate that you knew had special meaning, but you couldn’t figure it out? Then you turn your head just for a second to try and get a second look. Crash!

Not that it’s ever happened to me. When we moved to Illinois in 1993, I was thrilled by the fact that I could put anything on my vehicle (within reason).

There are some rules for personalized plates, as stated in the brochure obtained at the Driver’s License Bureau. For example, you cannot intermix numbers and letters on a personalized plate. I82MUCH (which is how I feel after dinner most nights). That would

Recipe:

have to be a Vanity plate. You can use 82MUCH. There can be no space in between num­bers, no lower case letters, no symbols (!?@#, etc.) and, perhaps most important, no combination of letters and/or numbers deemed offensive by the Secretary of State’s office.

I decided to express my pride in Florida State University on my license plate. Drivers are allowed to write down three choices. I eagerly wrote down FSU 1, NOLESR1 and NOLES 1.

So what did I end up with? NOLES 5. Please tell me who in the state of Illinois has NOLESR1. Maybe, but I doubt it. And NOLES 5? It took friends, co-workers and even family a long time to figure out what in the heck that plate meant.

“Is that your maiden name?” asked one friend.

“Does that mean ‘no less than 5’?” inquired another (I’ve got three kids, and that’s plenty, thanks.)

I’ve seen quite a few clever plates around Illinois (we go back to visit Grandma at least once a month).

Most of the plates in Quincy relate to golf. BLO PAR, TNOFF, etc.

There’s one plate from Missouri that I found interesting ... SUG-DAD. Don’t think I’d be admitting that unless the guy was in the candy-making business.

Here are some more to test your license plate knowledge.

3 QTPIES (my kids)

IOU 000 (If you own your car outright) 1DRFUL (If you’re awful fond of y our­self) 2ISHN (Jim and I when all our kids are in college) AV8 (Pilots) BZ MOM (Any mom) GR8SCOT (Sean Connery) IML82 (me, most of the time) WANNAD8 (Heidi Fleiss) 4GIVEME (Tiger Woods, John Edwards, etc.)

UPNATM (Your mom) 4TDAYS (Noah, of ark fame) IM BIZR2 (Dennis Rodman) A1ANDA2 (Lawrence Welk — this one’s true) FAST1 (Anyone who races cars for a living) BITEU2 (Mike Tyson) BYTEME (Bill Gates) There are so many creative, and clean, ways to express yourself.

But watch out. Like trying to read a bumper sticker that’s just a little too far away, trying to figure out the true meaning of a license plate can get you into an XIDENT.

Cookies 101: Bake Your Way to Perfection (Family Features) From Snickerdoodles to classic chocolate chip, cookies are the go-to dessert for all occasions.

Following are simple tips and tricks to make the perfect batch of cookies every time!

• Build a great foundation of basics. That means using high quality butter, large eggs and pure extracts.

This will help make runny or lumpy batter a thing of the past. As for bake ware essentials, rimless light-colored baking sheets produce golden cookie bottoms and cookie scoops make picture perfect batches.

• Go nutty. To add extra crunch to nuts, try toasting them first to bring out their natural flavor and aroma.

Stir small amounts over medium heat until fragrant, or for larger quantities place the nuts in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet and bake at 350 degrees for 10-15 minutes. Cool, chop, enjoy!

• Gift and share the love. Send travel-ready bar

cookies, tea cakes and biscotti to loved ones who live afar. Wrap cookies with plastic wrap or wax paper before placing in resealable baggies to secure contents during shipping. Use a sturdy box packed with cushion filler and wait for that excited “thank you” phone call!

• Bake your own chocolate chip cookies. America’s favorite - Nestlé Toll House - comes in all shapes and textures. For soft and cakey cookies, use 3/4 cup butter and reduce brown sugar to 1/2 cup. For thinner, crispy cookies, increase butter to 1 1/4 cups and sugar to 1 1/4 cups. For a richer taste, try substituting Nestlé Toll House Dark Choc-

olate Morsels made with 53% Cacao real dark chocolate for the traditional semi-sweet morsels. And for extra-chocolatey cookies, add the following recipe to your collection: For more baking inspiration, and to become a Very Best Baker, visit www.VeryBestBaking.com

Ultimate Chocolate Chocolate Chip Cookies Makes: 48 Cookies Ingredients: - 4 cups (two 12-oz. pkgs.) Nestlé Toll House Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels, divided - 2 2/3 cups all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon baking soda - 1 teaspoon salt - 1 cup (2 sticks) butter or margarine, softened - 1 cup packed brown sugar - 1/2 cup granulated sugar - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 3 large eggs

Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in melted chocolate. Gradually beat in flour mixture. Stir in remaining 2 cups morsels. Drop by rounded tablespoon onto ungreased baking sheets.

4. BAKE for 8 to 9 minutes or until cookies are puffed. Cool on baking sheets for 2 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely.

Directions: 1. PREHEAT oven to 375°F. 2. MELT 2 cups morsels in small, heavy-duty saucepan over low heat; stir until smooth. Remove from heat.

3. COMBINE flour, baking soda and salt in medium bowl. Beat butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar and vanilla extract in large mixer bowl.

www.stcharlesconventioncenter.com/MothersDay

Make it Your Way Cookie Cups Makes: 12 Cookie Cups • Prep: 10 mins • Cooking: 20 mins Ingredients: - 1 package (16.5 ounces) NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Refrigerated Chocolate Chip Cookie Bar Dough Directions: 1.PREHEAT oven to 325° F. Grease twelve 2 1/2-inch muffin cups.

2. PRESS two squares of dough together. Place in prepared muffin cups.

3. BAKE for 20 to 24 minutes or until golden brown. Cool completely in pan on wire rack*. Center of cups will indent slightly upon cooling. With tip of butter knife, remove cookie cups from muffin pan.

5. FILL cookie cups as desired.

Yogurt & Fruit Cookie Cups: Top each with a spoonful of yogurt and cut-up fresh fruit of choice.

Ice Cream Cookie Cups: Top each with a small scoop of DREYER’S or EDY’S® SLOW CHURNED® Light Ice Cream (any flavor). Sprinkle with NESTLÉ® TOLL

HOUSE® Semi-Sweet or Premier White Mini Morsel Toppers. * Rocky Road Cookie Cups: Immediately after cookie cups come out of the oven, top with a mixture of NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels, mini marshmallows and chopped nuts.

12

Community News

Church May 5: Girls Night Out Live 7 p.m. Cross Keys Baptist Church, 14255 New Halls Ferry Rd. Florissant, is hosting the Girls Night Out Live program. It will be a night of fun, faith and fellowship for women in our community.

Tickets are $10 and may be purchased at the church in advance or at the door. For more information call 831-0643 or visit our website at crosskeysbaptistchurch.org.

May 5 and every 1st Sat. of the month all year long: Basement/ Breakfast/Tailgate Sale

May 2, 2012

At Northside Christian Church, 9635 Hwy. 367 (Lewis & Clark Blvd.), St. Louis, MO. Pancakes & sausage or 2 biscuits & gravy, juice & coffee. Times: Basement/ Tailgate is 8 a.m. - Noon; Breakfast is 8-10:30 a.m. Breakfast is $4. A double parking spot for tailgaters is $10. Info 314.868.5722.

May 9 – June 27: Lifestyle for Living 2-4 p.m. Lutheran Church of the Atonement - Fellowship Hall. 1285 N. New Florissant Rd. Lifestyle for Living is an interactive 8-week program to help you improve your health. During this time you will

have fun: learning how to read nutrition labels; planning healthy menus; learning how to make better choices when you’re on the go; preparing fun and nutritious foods; converting favorite recipes for better health; and learning relaxation techniques. We encourage families to take this course together. No charge for course, but please register ahead by calling the parish nurse office at 314-837-1090. *This project is funded in part by the Lutheran Foundation of St. Louis.

Saturdays: ESL Classes 10 – 11:30 a.m. at Immanuel Lutheran Chapel, 11100 Old Halls Ferry Road, St. Louis. Free. All are welcome. Info: 314.849.6949.

Events May 5: PALS, a Local Animal Shelter, will be Hosting a Schwans Fundraiser 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. At Ponderosa in Troy. This is a great opportunity to purchase some of their delicious products for that special Mother’s Day dinner or graduation party and help PALS to provide food and

Free Admission (some rides and booths may charge) There will be various wineries for free wine tastings, live band, childrens activities, various booths, raffles, BBQ, bakeoffs, and horseshoe tournaments.

More info call 573-678-2442 or www.wild-life-rehab.com for map and directions.

May 11: Spoken-word Ballet Touhill Performing Arts Center.

Explores the impact of Alzheimer’s disease on three generations of one woman’s family. Info: Sara Krenski at 314.801.0416 or sara.krenski@ alzstl.org.

May 9 – June 27: Lifestyle for Living 2-4 p.m. at Lutheran Church of the Atonement - Fellowship Hall. 1285 N. New Florissant Rd. 8-week program to help improve your health.

Nutrition labels, planning menus, making better choices on the go, etc. Free. Register in advance by calling 314.837.1090.

May 12: S.W.A.T. Mouse Races 7 p.m. at Wild Acres Hall, 2500 Ashby Road in Overland. $15 per

www.troyflooringcenter.com

RSC Fitness Festival & fiesta 5K fun Run

Saturday, may 5 ~ Cinco de mayo Enjoy thE RSC faCilitiES fREE all day, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.

RSC Fiesta 5K Run at 7:30 a.m.

Visit www.renaudspiritcenter.com/5K for details and to register. Costumes are encouraged!

s

on’ Fall

O’

From 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Cinco de Mayo refreshments For kids – Face painting, inflatables, a rock wall and a balloon artist Free raffles and prizes Family Fitness Challenge sign-ups Health screenings, health/fitness products and services Blood drive – Walk-ins welcome

10% discount on Annual Memberships purchased on May 5!

www.renaudspiritcenter.com • 636-474-2REC (2732) 2650 Tri Sports Circle • O’Fallon, MO 63368

Both events sponsored by

Parks Night parks and and Rec Rec night at Ballpark at t.R. t.R. hughes Ballpark

Sunday, may 20

4 p.m. (Game at 6:05 p.m.)

River City Rascals vs. Rockford RiverHawks

Tickets: $10.00 child (ages 3–10), $15.00 (ages 11+) On sale at the RSC, Parks & Rec Office and www.renaudspiritcenter.com. Includes:

• • • • • • •

Reserved seat behind the Rascals’ dugout Buffet before the game Day Pass to the Renaud Sprit Center (up to $7.25 value) $5.00 coupon for an O’Fallon Parks and Rec program First 100 kids to purchase a ticket receive a RSC T-shirt Face painting bounce houses Games, demonstrations and more!

Sing the National Anthem YouTube Contest! www.ofallon.mo.us/parksandrec for details.

Video must be no longer than 2 minutes. Visit www.ofallon.mo.us/ParksandRec

www.stcharlesconventioncenter.com shelter for the homeless and abandoned animals in Lincoln County.

A portion of the sales will be donated to PALS. For further information about PALS, please call 636.338-1818 or visit our website at www.pals-pets.com.

May 5: The Grape Escape 3-9 p.m. Bardenheier Wine Cellars Annual Spring Fund Raiser Benefiting St Vincent DePaul Society and the Wildlife Rehabilitation Clinic. At the St. Stephens Hall & Picnic Grounds Richwoods MO.

ticket. 21 and older. Proceeds benefit S.W.A.T. Girls’ Softball Team.

Info: Amy Duncan at 314.324.9947.

May 15: Luncheon 1 p.m. The Bridge at Florissant is hosting a McDonnell Douglas Retiree Luncheon. Retiree & Spouses are welcome to join us . This is a free lunch please RSVP no later than Tues., May 8. The Bridge at Florissant, Senior Living Community, 314.831.0988.

May 19: Singles Dance

7:30 – 11:30 p.m. at the Moolah Shrine Hall, 12545 Fee Fee Road, St. Louis, MO 63146. Sponsored by Singles Again support group. $10.

May 19: Springtime Spectacular 2 p.m By St. Louis Chordinals, an a cappella womens’ chorus plus Those Three Guys, a gospel bluegrass band at Church of the Master, 1325 Paddock & Parker, Florissant, MO. Handicap accessible and light refreshments served.

Tickets: Group of 10 – $8, Advance single $10, Door $12. Contact Mary:314.428.8307, cut-off May 9.

Doors open 1:30 p.m. Directions/ Info: Ann, 314.831.8127.

May 19: Twice As Nice Flea Market 8 a.m. -3 p.m. Clean out the closet, basement, bring in the antiques or sell your handmade crafts. Admission is free. There will be concessions for sale. Advance registration required. Fee is $15 per table. 314615-8839.

May 19: Ferguson Twilight 5K 5 p.m. - 1 mile fun run, 6 p.m. - 5K run/walk, 6:30 p.m. - concert, 7:30 p.m. - awards. $25 registration - $5 discount for ages 19 and under.

Info: www.LiveWellFerg5K.com or LiveWellFerg5K@gmail.com.

May 19: Florissant Document Shredding Day 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. At St. Ferdinand Park in the back parking lot by the lake. CINTAS, a Document Management Company, will provide the shred trucks. There will be a 5-box or 5-bag limit per car.

Types of boxes include copy paper boxes, banker boxes or shoe boxes.

Types of bags include shopping bags and trash bags. You must have a Florissant Resident Card to participate. Thanks to the “Bridge at Florissant”, the new senior living community in Florissant, for sponsoring the event and Meridian Waste Services for the donation of a recycle dumpster for the event. Call the City of Florissant Senior Office 314-839-7604 for more info.

May 26: Knights of Columbus BBQ and Car Show 10 a.m. at K of C grounds, 50 rue St. Francois in Florissant. Rain or shine. $20 entry fee. Lots of classes for stock and modifieds. Info: Jerry Herbert at 314.837.5526.

June 2: MFA Oil Poker Run Grab your motorcycle, rev up your sports car or load up your minivan for the second annual MFA Oil Poker Run.All Poker Run proceeds

May 2, 2012

will be split equally between Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mid-Missouri and University of Missouri Children’s Hospital. There will be five routes to choose from, with starting points in Columbia, Jefferson City, Sedalia, Lake Ozark and O’Fallon. All routes are approximately 100 miles and include seven stops, with a live auction and announcement of winners following lunch at Memorial Park in Jefferson City. Lunch starts at noon. Individual Entries (includes lunch): $20 each (through May 11) $30 each (May 12 thru event day) Multiple hands may be purchased.

18 or older to register. $5 entry fee for lunch only avail. for purchase on event day. For more info on the MFA Oil Poker Run, email us at khauser@mfaoil.com.

June 8: Greater North County Chamber Golf Tournament 12 p.m. at the Golf Club of Florissant. $99 per golfer includes: golf, cart, lunch, dinner, six drink tickets, and prizes. Register online www.greaternorthcountychamber. com or call 314.831.3500.

June 23: Fiesta in Florissant A Latin festival in Florissant, Missouri that celebrates Latin culture!

Free admission! Local and some national Latin bands, dance groups and entertainers. Children’s pavilion with pony rides, face painting, pinata, and magician. Various Latin foods available with margaritas, cervezas(Latin beers) along with crafts. Come out and enjoy all the fun and learn about Latin culture!

Sept. 22: Jennings High School Class of 1972 Reunion To be held in St. Charles, Mo. We need your current contact information. Please call 636.583.9778 or email jhs1972@gmail.com.

Sept. 28-30: The Ferguson High School Class of 1957 They are planning a 55th reunion for Sept. 28, 29 & 30, 2012. Please contact Lynette (Dolce) Sona at 314-838-1751 or sewlyn39@juno. com or Susan Krueger at 314-5220475 or susiekrueger@yahoo.com for more information. The committee is looking for the following classmates: Bill Joe Atkisson, Nancy Ann Blackburn, Margaret Ann Brewer, Walter J. Britton, Betty Jean Butler, Jack Clarke, Evelyn Constantine, Alice Dueing, Ruth Ellis, James Graham, Wilbur Hampton, Louis Meyer, Jr., Loretta Miller, Edward Muckerman, Gail Phillips, Janet Phillips, Joe Polivick, Jr., Nancy Proctor, Nancy Ray, Dolores Richardson, Janie Richardson, Kathleen Roth, Judith Schaefer, Charlene Schmidt, Roberta Steel, Carolyn Tate, Mary Ann Waldschmidt, Ron Warzeniak, Camille White.

Oct. 27: Hermann London Halloween 5k Run/Walk 10 a.m. Race-Day Check-In: 9 a.m. at the Marietta parking lot, 7359 Marietta Ave, Maplewood, MO 63143 Awards Ceremony: 11:30 a.m. Marietta Parking Lot Proceeds Go To: The Women’s Safe House and The Woman’s Place Race Information: Starting and Ending Points at Marietta Parking Lot, 7359 Marietta Ave, Maplewood, MO 63143 Awards: Best Overall Costume, Best Group Costume, Best Pet Costume, Highest Fundraiser, Fastest Times Timing: Timing and Race Management will be provided by Big River Running For more details please visit http:// www.hermannlondon.com/5k Every Sunday Now-Oct.: Free Tours at Old Ferdinand Shrine 1-4 p.m. #1 Rue St. Francois St., Florissant, MO. Also, on Fri., Sat. and Sun. on May 4, 5 & 6. For info,

call: Vicki Wittman 314-921-7582 or email: vicray01@aol.com.

Last Saturday of Each Month: Writers Workshop 10 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Looking for new Authors and Songwriters.

Come join us and let us help you with your dream. We have Authors, Songwriters, Playwrites, Teachers and more. Meet at the Baden Liberary 8448 Church Rd. For more info call 314-388-2400.

1962 Hazelwood High School Reunion Graduates from the class of 1962 are invited to attend the 50th Reunion in June 2012. Please contact Shirley at 314.799.1147 (cell phone) for more info.

1967 Hazelwood High School Reunion: We are looking for classmates of Class of 1967 Hazelwood High School. We are having a 45th reunion in 2012. Please contact Kay at 1967hhshi@gmail.com or 636 745-2601 for more information.

Health May 5: Senior Health Fair 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Immanuel Lutheran Chapel, 11100 Old Halls Ferry Road. Free. For people 55 and older. Live entertainment and refreshments. Register with Lillie Mixon at 314.355.6114 or Vernida Summers at 314.520.5129.

Christian Hospital May 2-3: Designer Direct Jewelry Sale The Christian Hospital Auxiliary will be hosting a jewelry sale featuring a variety of gold, silver, gemstone jewelry as well as watches. Most items under $20.

All proceeds benefit patient care.

Location Christian Hospital lobby, 11133 Dunn Rd. May 2, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.; May 3, 7 a.m.–3 p.m.

May 16: Lung Function Screening 9-10 a.m. An estimated 10 million people in the United States have asthma. This disease is becoming more widespread. Asthma rates are rising in Missouri and are higher than the national average.

Stop by the information booth and you will have an opportunity to participate in a free lung function screening. In the Jamestown Mall Food Court . Free. Call 314-7479355 to register.

May 17 & June 5: American Red Cross Blood Drive Christian Hospital is teaming up with the American Red Cross to host a Blood Drive open to the general public. Stop by to roll up your sleeve and give blood to help

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save lives. Walk-ins are welcome but appointments have priority.

Free. May 17: noon-4 p.m. Northwest HealthCare, 1225 Graham Rd. Registration: www.redcrossblood.org and use sponsor code: NorthwestHealthcare; or contact Mindy McLain at mlm7458@bjc. org. June 5: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Christian Hospital Detrick Building Atrium, 11133 Dunn Rd. Registration: www.redcrossblood.org and use the sponsor code: christianhospital; or contact Sandy Barnes at slm9123@bjc.org .

SSM DePaul Healthy Happenings Ongoing 8-week sessions: Smoking Cessation Classes SSM DePaul Health Center SSM DePaul, partnering with St. Louis County’s tobacco-free initiative called “Let’s Face It,” is offering free smoking cessation classes to the public. The 8-week course assists participants in determining their readiness to quit smoking and provide the tools necessary to increase their success rate in becoming smoke free. Space is limited for these on-going classes. Call 1-866-SSM-DOCS to register or for more information.

May 17 & June 5: Blood Drive Christian Hospital and Northwest HeathCare are teaming up with the American Red Cross to host a blood drive. March 15 & June 5 from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. in the Detrick Building Atrium. May 17 from 12 - 4 p.m. at Northwest HeathCare.

For more info or an appointment call 1.866.236.3276.

Answers from page 8

www.facebook.com/mycnews

www.historicstreets.com

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Community News

May 2, 2012

CLASSIFIEDS HSMO Adoption Event at Rung Boutique

Shop for secondhand gems & give a pet a second chance WHO/WHAT: The Humane Society of Missouri will host an adoption event at St. Louis’ chic resale boutique, Rung. Adoptable cats and dogs will be available.

Rung’s mission is to bolster the confidence of women in the business world by offering professional attire at affordable prices in a boutique atmosphere. Rung donates 100% of its net profits to the Women’s Foundation of Greater St. Louis to support programs for atrisk women and their children.

WHEN: Sunday, May 6 • Noon - 4 p.m.

WHERE: Rung Boutique, 9739 Manchester Rd. St. Louis, MO, 63119. For directions visit, www.shoprung.org COST: FREE to attend; fees for adoptable animals vary For a list of all HSMO adoptable animals, visit www.hsmo.org ADOPTION INFORMATION: Adoption fee includes all necessary vaccinations, spay or neuter surgery and nationally registered microchip.

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!

CLASSIFIEDS

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May 2, 2012

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Community News

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Drivers:

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Consistent Freight, Weekly Home-Time for Solo’s and Teams!

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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.

Thank you, St. Jude. J.S.T.

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16

Community News

May 2, 2012

Sixth Annual Youth and Family Resource Fair

The Spanish Lake Community Association and the Hazelwood School District will host the Sixth Annual Youth and Family Resource Fair from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 5 at Twillman Elementary School, 11831 Bellefontaine Rd. in Spanish Lake.

The fair includes 40 exhibitors with information on summer camp, education, health and other social services available to the community.

Health screenings, prizes, free books, fun activities and job readiness workshops are all a part of this free event. The first 60 children attending will receive a free bicycle helmet. For more information, please call 314.741.4100.

SSM Heart Institute Makes History - Again!

Surgeon performs area’s first robotic-assisted surgery to repair atrial septal defect Another St. Louis cardiac surgery “first” was performed recently at SSM DePaul Health Center in Bridgeton, where two patients underwent robotic-assisted surgery to repair atrial septal defects of their hearts.

Noted SSM Heart Institute cardiovascular surgeon David Theodoro, M.D., performed the procedures using DePaul Health Center’s state-of-the-art da Vinci Robotic Surgical System. The two surgeries represented the first instances in St. Louis in which the repair procedure was performed minimally invasively using advanced robotic technology.

An atrial septal defect (ASD) is a hole in the wall between the two upper chambers of the heart. The condition is present from birth (congenital). Smaller atrial septal defects may close on their own during infancy or early childhood.

Large and long-standing atrial septal defects can dam-

age the heart and lungs. An adult who has had an undetected atrial septal defect for decades may have a shortened life span from heart failure or high blood pressure in the lungs.

Utilizing a surgical robotic system instead of the handoperated instruments to perform the repair, Dr. Theodoro was able to complete a complex operation through incisions that are much smaller and less traumatic than those used with traditional “open” surgical approaches. Recovery times following the procedure are often significantly reduced with minimally invasive surgery. There is also less risk of infection, less scarring and blood loss, a shorter hospital stay and quicker return to normal activities.

Dr. Theodoro is also the first and only cardiothoracic surgeon in St. Louis using robotic technology to perform minimally-invasive mitral valve repair and replacement surgery.

Spring Pet Care Spring is here! It’s time to get outside and enjoy the weather with the family, including the family dog. Head down to the park, go for a drive in the country, throw the Frisbee in the back yard, or do what you can to get outside and celebrate spring. Pack up a lunch and plenty of water, and go for a picnic. Take the kids and the dog out for some exercise…

What? Don’t have a dog? Well, there are adoption options out

www.ssmhealth.com/heart

there whether you are looking for a youngster or a more mature dog. There are many dogs that are searching for their forever homes, and would love to meet you. Pets of every size, shape, color, sex, and age are usually available. Concerned about potty training a puppy with both of you working? Will the dog get enough exercise and socialization being alone while its owners are at work?

Dr. Barbara Eichler said Community Animal Hospital provides a safe and fun environ- Dr. Barbara Eichler and Sunny. ment for dogs – Doggie Day Care. Puppies spend the day going outside, playing with staff, and socializing with new friends. They may also be potty-trained and leash trained, so owners may enjoy taking them on walks.

“This is also important for the older dog,” Eichler said. “They need to void more frequently to avoid damaging ‘senior’ kidneys as well as exercise to strengthen muscles and lessen arthritis pain and stiffness.”

Keep in mind that with the very mild winter, fleas and ticks are going to be in abundance this spring, summer, and fall. Be prepared for those potential invaders with top of the line products, such as Vectra 3D, and Trifexis. Online pet medicine pharmacies are convenient, but the products have been diverted, and as such are not guaranteed by the manufacturer if not purchased through a veterinarian. It only takes one flea to set off an allergic reaction, or a production factory of baby fleas.

When pet owners protect their pets with preventative care such as vaccinations, heartworm and parasite protection, they can include their pet in lots of outdoor family friendly activities. Canine Influenza is new to Missouri this year, so owners may want to include it in the vaccinations your dog receives. Consider a new furry family member and get out there and celebrate spring – you’ll be glad you did!

For more information, please call Dr. Barbara Eichler at Community Animal Hospital, 314.838.7500.