May 10, 2017
Schools ready for makeover
Around Town Alpha Players conclude season with classic comedy ‘Harvey’. P.3 Operation Food Search to host School of Cooking and Sharing’s first class. P.4
Community Voices By John A. Wright, Sr. PhD. P.2
School Hazelwood Central student nominated for FIRST Robotics Deans List Award. P.9
Learn & Play
Photo courtesy Normandy Schools Collaborative Volunteers Lodean Cotton (center) and Andrea Flynn call registered voters on April 1 to inform them of the Proposition N no-tax-rate increase bond issue on the April 4 ballot. Prop N passed with more than 68 percent of voters’ approval.
Simple ways to produce healthy habits. P.11
After passage of two bond propositions, school districts set stage for major facility improvements
Movie
By Nicholas Elmes When county voters approved two zerotax-increase $23 million bonds through Proposition N and Proposition K in April, they set the stage for years of school improvements in the Normandy and Pattonville school districts. “This is a huge deal,” said Normandy Schools Collaborative Superintendent Dr. Charles Pearson. “First of all, our children deserve the best facilities possible. Secondly, when our children begin to return to the school system from the transfer program, they should be able to come back to improved facilities and those facilities will support the improved instructional model that we have created. Finally, there was discussion at some point about whether or not the Normandy school district would be around, but not only are going to be around but we are building programs and planning for the future. The community came along side us and said ‘Yes, you are going to be here and we are going to support that.’” Pearson said the new bond funding would allow the school district to make major renovations at two aging elementary schools and build a new middle school campus, as well as
make other security, technology and structural improvements at other schools in the district. Jefferson and Washington elementary schools will each receive new science labs and libraries, but Pearson said the final plans for those facilities depended on what their communities said they needed. “We want to make sure the community has a chance to tell us what they want,” he said. “The architects will come in with some general ideas of what could be done, like the fact that both schools need a revamp in terms of egress and access, but we will also be holding sessions at each school where people will be able to talk from their school’s point of view about what is needed. Then we will solidify some of those ideas into the final plan.” Pearson said he hopes that the renovations of the two schools can begin during the next school year. “We know that presents some challenges, but we also know the community will want to see us begin as soon as possible,” he said. “There are ways to do it where it will be as undisruptive as possible. The new middle school facility will take
longer to open its doors, with a projected opening during the 2019-20 school year, but Pearson said that community input would be needed this summer in order to keep that project on its projected timeline. He said the details of where and what that new school will be will be based on what the community says it needs. “We currently have a seventh and eighth grade center and we know that that building needs to be replaced,” he said, noting that the district still needed to figure out which grade levels would be included in the new school. “When you start talking about the location and programing at the school, they you start talking about the possibility of rezoning attendance areas and that has to be done with community input. Near the end of our discussion about the upgrades at the two elementary schools we will start having a discussion with community about what we believe the two best options are for the new building.” Pearson said decisions on location and grade levels included would need to be made See ‘MAKEOVER’ page 2
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May movies serve up pirates, aliens and The Rock. P.16
Weather FRIDAY Partly Sunny 67/49 SATURDAY Mostly Sunny 72/51 SUNDAY Mostly Sunny 75/54 FirstWarn Weather
prepared by meteorologist Nick Palisch. For the latest updates visit www.facebook.com/nickswx.
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Around Town
May 10, 2017 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com
COMMUNITY VOICES St. Louis has played a part in striving to keep America’s promise By John A. Wright, Sr. PhD Since the killing of Michael Brown in Ferguson the St. Louis community has been thrusted again into the spotlight. A light that has shown some times brighter than others as attempts have been made to challenge America to live up to her promise of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness as presented in the Declaration of Independence. A promise that was reaffirmed by President Abraham Lincoln at Gettysburg when he stated that this nation was “conceived in liberty and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.” Since this was not for whites only, there has been an ongoing pursuit by those of color to claim that promise. As early as 1847, an enslaved man of color by the name of Dred Scott sued for his freedom only to have the United States Supreme Court declare that he was not a citizen of the United States and had “… no rights which white men are bound to…” Since the Scott case St. Louis has been one of the
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leading cities in major and landmark court cases in housing, education and employment. In Shelly v Kreamer in 1948, the U.S. Supreme Court ended the use of race restrictive covenants in the selling of homes. Later in Jones v Alfred H. Mayer Co., in 1968, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that private developers could not bar nonwhites from purchasing homes. In 1972, the court ruled that the city of Black Jack was in violation of the Fair Housing Act. The pursuit of a quality education has been ongoing. In 1938, the U.S Supreme Court ruled in Missouri ex. rel. Gaines v. Canada that the University of Missouri had to admit Lloyd Gaines into its law school or open one for African Americans. In 1975 the U.S. District Court ruled that the students in the Kinloch School District were the victims of discrimination. The same held true in the case of Liddell v Board of Education of the City of St. Louis in 1975. Discrimination was also an issue in Green
v. McDonnell Douglass, where the courts made it the responsibility of employers to prove their practices were not discriminatory. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once stated he had attempted to cash a check on America’s promises and it came back insufficient funds. The question is when will there be enough funds in America’s promise account for all Americans to make a withdrawal? John A. Wright, Sr. PhD is a retired school administrator, Fulbright Scholar and author. He presently serves as the honorary Consul for the Republic of Senegal and Vice Dean of the Consul Corps College in Washington, D.C. The opinions expressed in this column are the columnist’s alone and do not reflect the opinion of the owners or staff of Community News.
Gateway Arch tram rides resume operations Journey to the Top tram rides at the Gateway Arch have reopened to the public. The trams closed in late 2016 to replace the motor generator sets and improve the tram electrical system. Currently the south tram is operating, while the north tram is undergoing the upgrade. Trams are expected to be at 100 percent capacity in the coming weeks. “We are happy to welcome visitors back to the top of the Arch,” says Rhonda Schier, Chief, Museum Services and Interpretation, Jefferson National Expansion Memorial. “The Arch stands as a monument to exploration and adventure, and our visitors tell us that a tram ride to the top offers a multi-sensory adventure like nothing else that culminates in a sky-high view equal to none. The vast stretch of Illinois to the east, the city landmarks to the west, and the
mighty Mississippi directly below are significant to regional history and the national story.” The Old Courthouse is the Arch Ticketing and Visitor Center during construction and the start of guests’ Gateway Arch experience. It hosts free exhibit galleries focusing on early St. Louis, Lewis and Clark’s Corps of Discovery expedition, and the settlement of the Great Plains, as well as restored original courtrooms, and an exhibit gallery focused on Dred and Harriet Scott and their freedom suit. Visitors can also explore the revitalized Gateway Arch park grounds, and enjoy more than five miles of new pedestrian pathways, a diverse mix of trees, and the North Gateway, a 7.5- acre park space that includes the Lewis & Clark Explorers’ Garden and a raised walkway featuring views of the Eads Bridge and Mississippi River.
‘MAEKOVER’ from cover by early fall in order to make sure the building opened on time. He asked parents and community members to be on the lookout for announcements about meeting for feedback for both the two elementary schools and the new middle school, noting that there would also be opportunities to provide feedback on the district’s website. “We are moving in the right direction in terms of improving instruction and we believe the timing of this bond issue means that we can improve our facilities appropriately,” said Pearson. “I want to personally thank our families and the community for their support. This is another step in our short-term goal of accreditation and helps us build on the progress made so far.” The Pattonville School District plans to use their $23 million bond initiative to make a wide swath of improvements in schools across the district as well as creating a new early childhood center at the former Briar Crest Elementary School. “We are pretty excited about getting started on these projects,” said Pattonville School District Director of School-Community Relations Mickey Schoonover, noting that that district-used bond issues like this one to provide regular maintenance and improvements to its facilities. “We did the community engagement upfront on this. Each of our schools has a school improvement team made up of half parents and half staff members and each team embraced looking at what they needed at their own school, knowing that we needed to stay within that $23 million limit. We got input from parents and staff and principles and we also had industry experts do some studies. We came up with a pretty detailed list of what we wanted to do because we wanted people to know what they were approving on the bond issue.” A key issue was to expand capacity at elementary schools by moving early childhood education to a stand-alone facility. “This is one of the bigger and more visible improvements the bond will fund,” she said. “We have had early childhood programs at all of our elementary schools but they have become so popular that it has hit a breaking point where we needed more space.” She said moving those programs to the former Briar Crest Elementary School would free up space for the traditional K-5 pro-
grams at all of the district’s elementary schools. Less visible, but equally important is about $6 million in energy efficiencies planned at schools throughout the district including roof repairs or replacements, upgraded HVAC systems and more energy efficient lighting. Schoonover said studies showed that those improvements and upgrades would pay for themselves over time with reduced power and heating bills for the district. Another key focus of the bond initiative is safety and security. “We are taking a look at security throughout our district,” said Schoonover, noting that improvements included upgraded locking systems, new security cameras, and changes in traffic flow at some schools. “We are also making renovations at for the physical education facilities at both of our middle schools and the high school. We have had a long-term focus on getting kids more involved in activities after school.” She said that several studies had shown that getting kids involved beyond the life of the school day led to better behavior, academic performance and attendance. Finally, Schoonover said over $1.5 million of the bond would be used to completely renovate the Community Auditorium at Pattonville High School. “That was built in the 1980s and has not had any real updates since that time,” she said, noting that the renovations would include replacing the seats, refurbishing the stage and making a variety of behind the scenes upgrades. As exciting as the upgrades are, Schoonover said parents, staff, and students would, in most cases, have to wait until the 2018-19 school year to see them become a reality. “Our optimal time to do renovations to existing schools is during the summertime,” she said, adding that because of the time it would take time to get architectural plans and secure bids, it was unlikely any major projects would begin this summer. “You will see the majority of the work beginning the summer of 2018.” She said the new early childhood center would likely not open until the 2019-20 school year.
www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • May 10, 2017
Hazelwood gears up to host first Food Truck Night of the year
Around Town
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A mother and her son receive their menu orders from one of the participating food trucks last year.
The Hazelwood Parks and Recreation Division will be hosting its first Food Truck Night of 2017 on May 16 at Howdershell Park at 6810 Howdershell Road from 5 to 8 p.m. This event is free and open to the public. In addition to enjoying the best of St. Louis food truck cuisine, The South Side Johnny Band will be bringing another party to the park starting at 6 p.m. Blue’s Fired Pizza, Locos Tacos, Angie Burgers and Destination Desserts are the food trucks scheduled to be at Howdershell Park on May 16. The South Side Johnny Band features veteran
Photo courtesy city of Hazelwood
musicians, this group presents a blend of music that combines a variety of pop/rock, oldies, Motown, country and dance party classics. This will be the band’s second visit to the city of Hazelwood after hosting a Party in the Party last year at Truman Park. Those attending Food Truck Night are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items as donations for T.E.A.M. Food Pantry. A T.E.AM. representative will be there collecting the food and accepting cash donations. A gift basket will be raffled off with proceeds benefiting the food pantry.
Alpha Players conclude season with classic comedy ‘Harvey’
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The Alpha Players of Florissant are proud to present Mary Chase’s beloved Pulitzer Prize-winning comedy “Harvey.”
Be on the lookout for a mischievous mythical creature at the Florissant Civic Center Theatre this spring. You can’t miss him — he’s six feet high (or possibly six feet and a half) and looks like nothing you’ve ever seen before… because he’s invisible… and a rabbit. Don’t be alarmed, though; he’s really quite friendly. He answers to the name Harvey. Concluding their 2016-2017 season on a familyfriendly note, the Alpha Players of Florissant are proud to present Mary Chase’s beloved Pulitzer Prize-winning comedy “Harvey” — the story of an oh-so-pleasant man, his oh-so-unusual friend, and the havoc they unleash simply by being themselves. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. on May 19, 20, 26,
Submitted photo
and 27, and 2 p.m. on May 28, at the Florissant Civic Center Theatre, at the intersection of Parker and Waterford in Florissant. Tickets are $18 for adults, $16 for seniors and students, and $10 for children, with group rates available. More ticket information can be found at florissantmo.thundertix.com or by calling the box office at 314-9215678. The cast of “Harvey” features Preston Murchison, Jennifer Kerner, Jada Foster, Jeff Kargus, Jessa Knust, Ray Shea, Todd Micali, Tom Stone, Shirley Stewart, Gabi Maul and George Lewandowski. Danny Brown directs. “Harvey” is presented by special arrangement with Dramatists Play Service Inc., New York.
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Around Town
May 10, 2017 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com
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State auditor announces start of citizen-requested Hazelwood School District audit Missouri State Auditor Nicole Galloway has announced her office has begun an audit of the Hazelwood School District in St. Louis County. Residents of the district requested the audit through the petition process. “Missourians are demonstrating that they want to be engaged in the process of ensuring government accountability at all levels,” Auditor Galloway said. “I encourage anyone with information to contact my Whistleblower Hotline in order to better serve students and protect taxpayer dollars.” The Hazelwood School District includes 29 K-12
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schools and covers areas of Hazelwood, Florissant, Black Jack, Spanish Lake, Ferguson, Bellefontaine Neighbors and Bridgeton in St. Louis County. The petition audit required 5,000 signatures, which were certified by the St. Louis County Elections Board. Individuals who would like to provide information for consideration in this or any audit may contact the State Auditor’s Whistleblower Hotline at moaudit@auditor.mo.gov or by calling 800347-8597. Concerns may also be submitted anonymously online at auditor.mo.gov/hotline.
Hazelwood police join nationwide effort to keep young drivers sober in May The Hazelwood police will be out in full force as part of the annual nationwide Youth Alcohol Enforcement “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” crackdown on drunk driving. The crackdown, which will include high-visibility enforcement throughout the St. Louis area, will run from May 4 to May 15. Hazelwood Police Chief Gregg Hall said Hazelwood Police Officers will be aggressively looking for drunk drivers during the crackdown and will arrest anyone caught drinking drunk. “Every year, about one-third of all motor vehicle traffic deaths involve one or more impaired drivers or motorcycle operators,” Hall said. There were 196 people killed and 652 seriously injured in 2016 Missouri traffic crashes that involved at one substance-impaired driver (alcohol and/or drugs). “Research has shown that high-visibility enforcement like the ‘Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over’ campaign reduces drunk driving fatalities by as much as 20 percent. By joining this nationwide effort, we will make Hazelwood’s roadways safer for everyone,” Hall said.
Photo courtesy city of Hazelwood
Hall noted that being arrested for driving drunk brings a wide range of negative consequences into one’s life. Drunk drivers face jail time, loss of their driver’s license and steep financial consequences such as higher insurance rates, attorney fees, court costs, lost time at work and the potential loss of job. When family, friends and co-workers find out, violators often face personal embarrassment. “Driving drunk is simply not worth the risk, so don’t take the chance. Remember, we will be out in force and we will be watching, so drive sober,” Hall said.
Operation Food Search to host School of Cooking and Sharing’s first class
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Operation Food Search (OFS), a local hunger relief organization dedicated to ending childhood hunger and family food insecurity in the St. Louis bi-state region, will host the School of Cooking and Sharing’s first “Cook, Learn and Share” culinary class event on May 18 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. The monthly program will feature a culinary instructor who will cook a special dish for the audience to enjoy while simultaneously learning about OFS’ direct impact on the community. The first program, Community Pizza Night, will be led by Little Flour Microbakery owner Deborah LeMoine who also volunteers as an OFS’ culinary instructor along with The Wine Merchant owner Jason Main. LeMoine will share her recipe for homemade pizza made with whole grain dough and garden fresh toppings. She will discuss the many ways people can work together to feed those Submitted photo in their own kitchen and throughout the community. Main will share his favorite Community Pizza Night, will be led by Little Flour Microbakery owner Deborah LeMoine. wines for pairing with pizzas. Tickets are $50 per person and include delicious is only open to the first 50 registrants. To learn food, class instruction and wine. Proceeds will more about the Operation Food Search School of fund cooking and nutrition education programs Cooking and Sharing or to register for the culinary for children and families throughout the commu- class, call Operation Food Search at 314-726-5355 nity. Reservations are required since the program or visit http://www.cooklearnshare.org.
www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • May 10, 2017
Yeggs
Around Town
John Hanna
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‘Yeggs’ is a comic series about Robert and Bill, two rabbits who have opened their own egg franchise in the Midwest (St. Louis area). We follow their day to day lives, watching as they go about the hectic task of preparing for their one big day every year. Along the way they have adventures filled with fun, comic doings and pathos.
By Cindy Moore
Moore On Life
Showtime
Nothing starts more disagreements in the Moore house than movie night. Oh sure, for most couples this is the time for a little snuggly togetherness. It’s also a chance to share a soda, box of candy and some popcorn slathered in cooking oil, which all totaled costs the same amount as that new crown will after chomping on an unpopped kernel. But the highway-robbery fees are not what makes us so cranky; it’s choosing a movie that gets our undershorts in a crumple. It’s Friday night and decision time has come. I have heard through the lady-grapevine that there is a delightful little Victorian romance flick that has just been released. I relate the plot to my husband by telling him it revolves around the dashing lord of a country manor who is out one day surveying the whole of his estate on his trusty steed. Suddenly, he spies a young lass in an enchanting bonnet from the local village gathering blossoms. He stops to take in her loveliness, when serendipitously, a gust of wind carries his top hat on the magic wings of destiny and it falls into the flower basket of yonder maiden. As the handsome, virile, wealthy and extremely muscular lord reaches down to pick up his hat, the endmost parts of his fingertips brush lightly against the exposed forearm of the damsel and love ensues. The movie had me at top hats and bonnets, but my husband looks at me as if I have shoved hot needles under his fingernails. He has an
alternate plan. Apparently, our neighbor, Mr. Pilkinson, has been filling his head with poison. He’s told him about a must-see movie whereupon an infestation of alien lizard-bots have commandeered spaceships loaded with nuclear weapons. The crazed reptilians are intent on dropping them off on various highly-populated world tourist attractions thus creating all manner of explosions and eruptions and fireballs of wicked sweet proportions. I glare at him as if he were clipping his toenails at the table in a snooty restaurant. We are at a standstill. Neither will budge. We spend the evening watching the weather channel and eating cheap microwave popcorn, which will most likely end up costing us a new crown each. Cindy Moore is the mother of three superlative kids, servant of two self-indulgent felines and wife to one nifty husband. Her ficticious occupation? Archeological Humorist: someone who unearths absurdity and hilarity in strange and unusual places including public restrooms, the lint filter, and church meetings. Most recently, she excavated a find in her neighbor’s bird feeder. The opinions expressed in this column are Cindy Moore’s alone and do not reflect the opinion of the owners or staff of Community News.
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Around Town
May 10, 2017 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com
Loop Trolley energizes system and overhead wires
w w w. s e n i o r s h e l p i n g s e n i o r s . c o m / s t l o u i s c e n t r a l
April marked an important milestone for The Loop Trolley as crews electrified the wires that will power the trolleys and the wires have officially gone live. Testing of the traction power substation and overhead wires occurred the week of April 24. Once this testing began, all wires are considered “hot” and electrified at all times, and the public will need to be mindful of the related safety precautions. With the energization of the overhead, or catenary wires, The Loop Trolley project officially transitions from its construction phase into the system testing phase in preparation for revenue operations later this year. The existing multiple grounding and bonding used during construction will be removed and a single point of grounding and bonding will be installed at the headquarters facility. More than 16,000 feet of overhead wire runs along the 2.2 mile trolley route, carrying 600 volts of direct current power from the substation through them to power the trolley. “Approval of the energy system is an important step in our progress,” said Kevin Barbeau, executive director of The Loop Trolley Company, which will operate the trolleys. “At the same time, it’s important that everyone understand these wires should be considered ‘live’ going forward, and that caution be exercised around the wires and system.” In the event of any incident that would result in a downed wire along the trolley route, any member of the public coming upon the downed wire is reminded to always call 911 immediately to notify
emergency personnel. For any work to be done to the buildings, street lights, or utilities along the Loop Trolley route, notification must be given to the Loop Trolley Company for verification of power. Any such work that would be within 15 feet of the nearest streetcar track and/or overhead wires will need to be carefully planned, executed and permitted. The Loop Trolley Company has coordinated efforts with the city of St. Louis and University City to have the Loop Trolley added to their respective permit programs. Representatives from The Loop Trolley Company are available to meet with individuals planning work, on site, to discuss the details, equipment to be used, space needed and any other aspect of the job. This process applies to all work or activities that may take place on Delmar Blvd., between Kingsland and DeBaliviere, and on DeBaliviere, between Delmar Blvd. and the History Museum in Forest Park. The need for special permits also applies to community organizations, businesses and neighborhood associations that may be working or hosting an event that would have elements that come within the same close proximity to the streetcar track and overhead wires. Examples could include the erecting of a large tent or the hanging of banners/signage from a building or pedestrian light poles. “Our goal is to help ensure the public’s safety in regards to trolley movement or any component in the trolley system,” notes Barbeau.
Weather from Nick’s Window
by Nick Palisch
How to make a flood forecast
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April brought many showers and thunderstorms to the area resulting in heavy rainfall and flooding to most of the state of Missouri. A reader asked the question on how a river level forecast is made and what criteria is used to predict flood levels and eventually crest levels at given points on area rivers. Meteorologists work closely with hydrologists to predict water levels on area waterways and with growing technology and techniques to predicting water levels on these waterways. The Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Services (AHPS) serves as an essential part of the Climate, Water, and Weather Service. Using weather models, the National Weather Service (NWS) estimates the amount and levels of water that flow through area rivers. These models are able to estimate the amount of runoff that weather events generate, then takes that amount and computes how water will move downstream. The AHPS system then predicts the flow of water at a given reporting site throughout a forecast period. Typically, these forecasts are every six hours and go out three to five days. Once a storm system begins to impact an area, precipitation amounts are gathered from rain gauges and radar estimates. At this point, the precipitation forecast values are replaced with observed totals and ingested into the river model. For prolonged weather events, similar to the one that occurred April 26-30, the river model will use both observed and forecast amounts to predict river levels. Beyond just the numerical guidance, other factors the computer models use include snowmelt, base flow and groundwater, reservoir operations and water from upstream. The saying what happens above must come down – weather events north of us impact our river levels – because all that water has to move southward. Smaller bodies of water must also be taken into account as they often
flow into the larger rivers such as the Mississippi River. Each morning, hydrometeorologists at the NWS River Forecast Centers collect and check precipitation observations and precipitation forecast to develop the models that are eventually sent to the local weather service offices. The local weather offices will then issue any flood watches and warnings as needed. Forecasts are then monitored for peak levels (crest levels) where the river is expected to be at the highest. Once the forecasted high is obtained, the crest indicates that the river will begin to fall. The flood stage is defined as the level in which the river has exceeded its banks and will overtake area not normally covered by water, thus causing inconvenience and threat to life and property. It is important to remember that flood levels and crests can change depending on additional precipitation in our area or areas that feed into our waterways. The most fundamental thing to remember is never drive through flood waters, swim in them or drink the water. Flood waters move swiftly and can wash away the ground beneath them and the debris the water picks up from run off can make individuals sick. Next time we will talk about the wrath of a flash flood. Nick Palisch is a meteorologist and Missouri native who understands the weather here in our area. He currently resides in Lake Saint Louis and can be reached at nick-wx@sbcglobal.net and you can always get the most up-to-date forecast from the FirstWarn Weather page at www.facebook.com/nickswx The opinions expressed in this column are the columnist’s alone and do not reflect the opinion of the owners or staff of Community News.
www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • May 10, 2017
Connectria Hosting holds food drive for Operation Food Search
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Submitted photo Pictured (from left) are Operation Food Search’s Director of Community Relations Judy Coyman, Director of Strategic Initiatives Lucinda Perry, warehouse assistant Perez Daniels, Executive Director Sunny Schaefer, driver Randy Carthans and warehouse assistant Darnell Grady
Connectria Hosting recently held a food drive and collected more than 12,000 pounds of food and personal care items for Operation Food Search (OFS), a hunger relief organization that provides food to the area’s hungry. The value of the donations is over $20,000 and represents enough to feed 3,042 people for one day. Founded in 1996, Connectria provides cloud hosting, remote monitoring and cloud security for more than 1,000 customers in over 30 countries worldwide. Headquartered in St. Louis, Connectria is active in giving back to the com-
munity and encourages other organizations to give as well through its “No Jerks Allowed” company philosophy and culture. “When local businesses hold area food drives, it’s a win-win situation for everyone involved,” said Operation Food Search Executive Director Sunny Schaefer. “The company’s team works together for a philanthropic cause and the community benefits from their dedicated efforts.” Schaefer added that OFS partners with many St. Louis and Illinois companies in order to raise awareness and assist the area’s hungry.
Greather North County Chamber of Commerce announces 2017 scholarship winners
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Submitted photo Attending the Greater North County Chamber of Commerce awards ceremony were (from left) Halina Conti, GNCC Partners In Education Chair; Sarah Merlenbach, Hazelwood West High School; Shahd Alyasiry, Hazelwood West High School; Joshua Singleton, McCluer North High School; Jasmine Woodfork, Riverview Gardens Senior High School; Brendan Farmer, North County Christian School and Mike Moehlenkamp, Chairman of the Greater North County Chamber of Commerce. Not present was Stenavia Hornbuckle of McCluer High School.
The Partners in Education Committee of the Greater North County Chamber of Commerce selected the following students for a $1,000 scholarship: Brendan Farmer, North County Christian School; Sarah Merlenbach, Hazelwood West High School; Joshua Singleton, McCluer North High School and Shahd Alyasiry, Hazelwood West High School. The committee also selected Jasmine Woodfork of Riverview Gardens Senior High School to receive a $1,000 Perseverance Scholarship. “The scholarships are funded primarily
through the chamber’s annual bowling tournament, as well as passing piggy banks during monthly membership luncheons and special events,” said Judy Taylor, president of the GNCC. “We are grateful to our generous members for supporting the student scholarship program.” Greater North County Chamber Member, Jacob’s Ladder Ministries awarded one $500 Scholarship to Stenavia Hornbuckle of McCluer High School who persevered in their studies despite facing some tough challenges.
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School
May 10, 2017 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com
Will your child be ready for kindergarten?
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Parents are their child’s first and most important teacher. During the first few years, children learn more and at a faster pace than at any other time in their life. Parents help shape their child’s future through the kinds of experiences they provide. The more extensive the parental involvement in the child’s education, the higher the student achievement. Understanding what to expect during each stage of development helps parents capture teachable moments in everyday life to enhance their child’s language development, intellectual growth, social development and motor skills so children can learn, grow and develop to realize their full potential. The Ferguson-Florissant School District’s Parents as Teachers program is designed to enhance parents’ understanding of how their child learns. Parents are supported by certified parent educators trained to translate scientific information on early brain development into specific when,
what, how, and why advice for parents. Parents can continue to enhance their child’s development by partnering with the FergusonFlorissant School District’s Early Education Program. When a child, who lives in the school district, turns three years old he is eligible to enroll in free preschool. Three-year-olds attend class two or three mornings per week; four-year-olds attend three or four half-days. A limited number of full-day openings are available. Classes are held in ten different locations. Families will continue to receive Parents as Teachers personal visits throughout their preschool experience. To ensure your child enters kindergarten ready to learn enroll your child in the Ferguson-Florissant School District’s quality early education programs. Free preschool enrollment has begun. Enroll now. Don’t wait. Call 314-506-9066 or email: Hmeyer@fergflor.org for information on Early Childhood Education programs.
North County Christian School names Student of the Month Erika Broyles was honored at the Northwest Chamber of Commerce membership meeting on April 13. Erika is a senior at North County Christian School where she has attended since ninth grade. She maintains a 3.72 GPA and is a member of National Honor Society. Erika is a busy girl on campus with her involvement and leadership in cheerleading, soccer, praise team, theatre, business team project manager and coordinator of the talent show fundraiser. Outside of the classroom, Erika has traveled to Honduras to volunteer in a girls home, leads praise and worship at St. Sophia Rehabilitation Center, participates in Toys for Tots campaign and Community Day (passing out cloths, food, school supplies, etc.). Erika plans to attend Webster University to earn a degree in film, TV and video production.
Photo courtesy North County Christian School
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Johnson-Wabash students to play with St. Louis Symphony Orchestra
Photo courtesy Ferguson-Florissant School District Johnson-Wabash third graders practice the recorder in preparation of their playing along with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra.
Sixty third-graders from Johnson-Wabash Elementary School will have the opportunity to play with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. The students’ instrument of choice is the recorder and they will join other St. Louis area students who will also play with the symphony as part of the Link Up program. Link Up introduces students to the orchestra by helping them become a part of it. Link Up is a hands-on music curriculum for students in grades three-through-five that explores orchestral reper-
toire in the music classroom while preparing students to sing and play recorders or string instruments from their seats in a culminating St. Louis Symphony Link Up concert at Powell Hall. This year’s Link Up concert is scheduled for May 16. “The students have been working really hard in preparation for this experience,” said Valerie Smith, music teacher at Johnson-Wabash. “They are really excited about visiting and playing with the symphony.”
www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • May 10, 2017
Jake Lapinski, a business teacher at McCluer North High School, has been named the John C. Whitehead Global Teacher of the Year by the Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE). He was selected from among 21 finalists from around the world. The honor comes with $5,000, which was awarded to Lapinsky during NFTE’s recently held Global Showcase in New York, New York. Lapinski has taught problem-solving, opportunity recognition and marketing for more than 10 years. He frequently uses video in his classroom to show examples of successful entrepreneurs and incorporates cell phone use for research purposes in his lessons. “Advances in technology have changed education… students are more comfortable typing with their cell phones and with the popularity of YouTube, SnapChat and Instagram, they often expect to see content in video format,” said Lapinsky. “At my core, I just want every kid to have the opportunity to succeed at something and to see that there are many ways to be successful.” In addition to his teaching duties, Lapinsky also leads McCluer North’s DECA club and coaches wrestling and volleyball. NFTE is a national organization to provide programs that inspire young people to stay in school,
Photo courtesy Ferguson-Florissant School District
McCluer North teacher is Global Teacher of the Year
to recognize business opportunities and to plan for successful futures. The program was started in 1987 in New York City and has worked with more than 700,000 students across the United States and around the world.
School
13 FFSD students selected to attend the Missouri Fine Arts Academy Thirteen students from the Ferguson-Florissant School District have been selected to attend the Missouri Fine Arts Academy (MFAA) this summer. The students, who had to submit an online audition, essay and recommendation from their fine arts teacher to qualify for selection, are among students from throughout the state to participate in the academy. The students are Amanda Baranowski, Ty’Ree Gary, Damien Howard, Tony Merritt and Alexis Wren – McCluer High School; De’Janna Hand, Ian Obst, Micah Prophete, Mallory Sifford and Kaitlynn Volkmann – McCluer North High School; and Meya-Rae Davis, Dejah Saddler and Makaiya Smith – McCluer South-Berkeley High School. The MFAA is a three-week summer residential program for highly motivated student artists in visual arts, theater, dance, creative writing and music. The academy offers an intensive schedule of classes in interdisciplinary and discipline-specific arts, and a wide range of co-curricular activities. MFAA is conducted with the support and cooperation of Missouri State University. Students who complete the academy earn three hours credit in interdisciplinary studies, which is transferable to most college or university degree programs. The concept of the Missouri Fine Arts Academy grew out of an interest in providing an opportunity and level of support necessary to challenge, motivate and empower Missouri’s most talented arts students to become future state arts leaders.
Hazelwood Central student nominated for FIRST Robotics Deans List Award Hazelwood Central High School sophomore, Kolby Davis, was recently nominated by the Central High RoboHawks robotics team to receive the For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST) Robotics Deans List Award. Davis will attended a luncheon with other nominees at the First Robotics World Championships, on April 28 where they announced the Dean’s List winner. To be nominated, each robotics team is allowed to nominate up to two 10th or 11th grade students. Once a team nominates a student they are considered a Dean’s List Semi-Finalist. Semi-Finalists are then interviewed by judges, who choose two students to advance as Dean’s List Finalists. The Hazelwood School District has had two previous Dean’s List award winners. In 2011, Luther Banner received the Dean’s List award and went on to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology with a full-ride scholarship. In 2015, Mashroor Rashid, a Hazelwood West alumnus won the Dean’s List Award.
Photo courtesy Hazelwood School District Hazelwood Central High School sophomore, Kolby Davis, was recently nominated by the Central High RoboHawks robotics team to receive the For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST) Robotics Deans List Award.
Photo courtesy Hazelwood School District
Brown Elementary students celebrate Earth Day
Several students at Brown Elementary School, in the Hazelwood School District plant seeds and care for plants growing in the Brown Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) garden in preparation for Earth Day.
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www.LifeCareCenterOfFlorissant.com
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Sports
May 10, 2017 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com
– SUDOKU – Fill in the blank squares in the grid, making sure that every row, column and 3-by-3 box includes all the digits 1 through 9.
See solution on page 13
www.treesbywoody.net
Forrest Keeling Nursery 800-356-2401 www.forrestkeeling.com forrestkeeling.com
Sports you see with Gary B... River City Rascals start season this Friday The River City Rascals play professional baseball in the West Division of the Frontier League with home games at Car Shield Field in O’Fallon. It has been a long off-season and the “boys of the summer” are anxious to get back on the new field and play their hearts out for their fans. The Rascals start the 2017 campaign against the Normal CornBelters with a 6:35 p.m. start time on Friday, May 12. All the hoopla will start late in the afternoon with many surprises by different celebrities. Go to www.RiverCityRascals.com for more information. * Ready for action Rascals need bat and ball kids The River City team is looking for energetic, baseball enthusiasts to join the team as B45’s Bat Kids or Ball Kids for the 2017 season. For these positions you will get to experience first hand interaction with all of the players and coaches from both teams. You will also get first hand experience on how a professional baseball team operates on a daily basis. Some of the main benefits include: *$10 Rascals bucks per game plus two tickets for your family. *Work and interact with professional baseball players. *View the game from the field as a Rascals players. *Get “tips and tricks” about pro baseball from an inside prospective. *The best summer job anyone can ever have! Want more information, contact Megan Norkunas at MNorkunas@rivercityrascals.com to sign up. * You will be right in the middle of all the action Indoor football this Saturday The River City Raiders are a member of the Arena Pro Football (APF) league with home games at the Family Arena. Based in St. Charles the River City Raiders are one of the nation’s premier professional indoor football franchises. The Raiders are a community-driven organization and focus their advertising and marketing efforts towards growing their extremely loyal fan base. The Raiders are the only professional indoor football organization in the world to offer thousands of free tickets to all of their action-packed
home games. This Saturday the squad takes on the Myrtle Beach Sharks at 7 p.m. Go to www.IndoorRaiders.com for more information. * A lot of action in at the arena Lindenwood lacrosse team seeded No. 1 in NCAA The Lindenwood women’s lacrosse team earned a spot in the NCAA Division II National Tournament after being selected as the No. 1 seed in the south region. The Lady Lions earned a bye through the first-round of the NCAA tournament, and will host the first and second-round matchups at Hunter Stadium in St. Charles for the secondconsecutive season. Lindenwood has won a single-season program record 20 games this season With its eight home wins this season, Lindenwood has extended its home winningstreak to 32 consecutive games. The Lady Lions are led by a balanced scoring attack which boasts seven different scorers with at least 40 points this season. Sophie Buelow is Lindenwood’s top goal scorer with 44 goals, while Rachel Benzing has dished out a teamhigh 29 assists. Benzing and Buelow have each tallied a team-leading 58 points. Rachel Ortell has started 14 games in goal for Lindenwood, compiling a .502 save percentage and a 8.67 goals against average. For more information go to www.lindenwoodlions.com * And they keep rolling on
I will be broadcasting the “STL Health and Wellness LIVE” show every Saturday from 9-11 am on 590 The Fan and 590TheFan.com
1999 for the paper.
Gary Baute, a St. Louis native, has hosted many radio shows from Health to Sports to Baby Boomer news. He was the EMCEE of the River City Rascals and St. Louis Swarm basketball team inaugural seasons and broadcasting for the indoor football teams over a decade. Has been writing sports since
www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • May 10, 2017
Recipe: Simple ways to produce healthy habits If getting your kids to embrace healthy eating habits feels like a constant uphill battle, take heart in knowing you’re not alone. However, modeling smart choices in the kitchen and at the grocery store may be just the nudge your kids need. One of the biggest hurdles many families face when it comes to healthier eating is getting started. These tips show how subtle changes can make it simple to introduce healthier choices the whole family can enjoy. • Mornings are a busy time for families, and it can be difficult to make a nutritious breakfast and get out the door. Even so, skip the packaged breakfast foods that are loaded with sodium and calories. Instead, make and freeze your own healthy breakfast foods ahead of time. These breakfast burritos are easy for reheating and eating on the go.
Learn & Play
11
Crossword Puzzle Theme: Famous Mothers
• A common misperception is that eating healthfully takes too long. Set a good example for kids to follow by preparing healthy dinners at home. This one-pot turkey skillet is ready in less than 25 minutes to make dinner and cleanup a breeze. • When kids are empowered to choose what they eat, they’re more likely to enjoy it. One easy way for kids to identify smart choices in the produce department is by looking for foods with the Produce for Kids logo. Not only are these items an important part of a balanced meal, shoppers who support the products are giving back to local organizations that help children and families. To find additional tips to encourage your family’s healthy eating and more than 300 registered dietitian-approved recipes, visit produceforkids.com.
Make-Ahead Freezable Breakfast Burritos Recipe courtesy of Produce for Kids | Prep time: 20 minutes | Cook time: 20 minutes | Servings: 14
Ingredients: 2 teaspoons olive oil, divided 16 ounces lean turkey breakfast sausage 1 medium red bell pepper, finely chopped 1 small Vidalia onion, finely chopped 1 large tomato, finely chopped 12 large eggs 1/2 teaspoon pepper 1 cup low-fat shredded cheddar cheese 14 whole-wheat tortillas (8 inches each) Directions: In nonstick skillet over medium heat, heat 1 teaspoon oil. Add sausage and cook 5-8 minutes, or until cooked through. Transfer to plate and set aside. In same skillet, add remaining oil, bell peppers, onions and tomatoes, and cook 3-5 minutes, or until softened. Add tomatoes and cook 2 minutes. In large bowl, scramble eggs and pepper. Add to pan and cook, stirring regularly, 3-4 minutes, or until eggs are set. Remove from heat and mix in sausage and cheese. Let cool.
Fill tortillas with 1/2 cup egg mixture, roll into burrito and lay seam-side down on parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze 1 hour. Transfer to freezer-safe re-sealable bag and return to freezer.
To reheat burritos, remove from freezer, wrap in paper towel and microwave on high 1-2 minutes.
One-Pot Healthy Turkey Skillet Recipe courtesy of Produce for Kids | Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil 1 pound ground turkey 1 medium green bell pepper 1 medium sweet onion 3 Roma tomatoes 8 ounces whole-wheat elbow macaroni, cooked according to package directions 1 can (15 1/2 ounces) kidney beans, rinsed and drained 2 teaspoons cumin 2 tablespoons chili powder 1/4 teaspoon salt Directions: In nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil. Add turkey and cook 10 minutes, or until no longer pink. In food processor, pulse bell pepper, onion and tomatoes until chunky. Add vegetable mixture, noodles, beans, cumin, chili powder and salt to skillet and let simmer 15 minutes.
ACROSS 1. ____ of cookies 6. Accident 9. Art ____ 13. Greeting from Don Ho 14. Gone by 15. One who needs a muzzle 16. Sign of bad news 17. Hula dancer’s ornament 18. Chopin’s composition 19. *Little Women’s mother 21. *Mrs. Borden’s stepdaughter 23. R in rpm 24. Sign of a saint 25. 1960s British subculture 28. Sub station 30. Lay to rest 35. War god in Norse mythology 37. Standard 39. Shinbone 40. Staff note 41. Abdominal exercise 43. Cashier’s call 44. Wisdom tooth, e.g. 46. Location 47. Singing club 48. In any way whatsoever 50. *Bébé’s mother 52. Dog tags 53. Highlands hillside 55. Rub the wrong way 57. *Queen Elizabeth I’s mother 60. *Anderson Cooper’s mother 63. Load carrier 64. *Queen Mother Elizabeth’s afternoon drink 66. *”Mamma Mia!” mother 68. Be 69. Snowmobile runner 70. Furnish with a fund 71. Benign lump 72. Thus far 73. Israeli statesman Moshe
DOWN 1. Ovine cry 2. Reunion attendee 3. Roman robe 4. Trill like a bird 5. Injured 6. “____ and hearty” 7. Hoariness 8. Southern chicken stew 9. Flighty one 10. Red carpet purse 11. Surrender territory 12. Miner’s bounty 15. Byzantine Empire coin 20. Not odds 22. Choler 24. Broadcaster’s item for sale 25. *Big ____, Martin Lawrence’s character 26. Theater in ancient Greece 27. Indistinctly 29. *TV mom of Meg, Chris and Stewie 31. Sound of a bell 32. Plural of obelus 33. Like some greens 34. *Mrs. ____, a “boy’s best friend” 36. Russell Crowe’s 2014 role 38. Remote control option 42. State of danger 45. Redford or De Niro 49. Like dry humor 51. What river did to bank 54. On pins and needles 56. Swedish money 57. Square-looking 58. Singer “on the dock of the bay” 59. For fear that 60. Gallop or trot 61. Hoosier State’s capital, for short 62. Dwarf buffalo 63. “Law & Order” character 65. Augment 67. Barley bristle See answers on page 13
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What’s Happening
May 10, 2017 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com
Send your event to editor@mycnews.com and we'll print it! EVENTS May 10: Karaoke
Karaoke at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information call 314-831-6121.
May 12: Country fried steak or meatloaf dinner
Country fried steak or meatloaf dinner at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 4 to 7 p.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information call 314-831-6121.
May 13: Trivia night
The Parents Advisory Council at the Child Development Learning Center at St. Louis Community College-Florissant Valley will hold a trivia night fund-raiser at the James J. Eagan Community Center in Florissant. The Eagan Center is located at Parker Road and Waterford Drive. Doors for the event will open at 5:30 p.m., with the trivia contest following from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tickets are $20 apiece or $160 for a table of eight if purchased before April 14. After April 14 tickets are $25 apiece or $200 for a table of eight. For more information, e-mail CDLC.PAC@gmail.com, call 314-513-4525 or contact Torie (Rocket) or any classroom PAC representative at the Child Development Learning Center.
May 13: Scholarship run
The Hazelwood Parent Teacher Association PTA Council invites students, families and the entire community to participate in the 36th Annual Hazelwood PTA Scholarship Run/ Walk event. Registration begins at 7 a.m. The first race begins at 8:30 a.m. All activities will take place at Hazelwood Central High School at 15875 New Halls Ferry Road in Florissant. The event will also include a health and wellness fair with several vendors, student entertainment, and concession stands. To register for this event or to make a donation toward the scholarship fund, go to the Hazelwood PTA Council website at www.hazelwoodptacouncil.com or the Hazelwood School District website at www.hazelwoodschools.org. Volunteers are needed to make the run/walk event a success. Many op-
portunities are available to assist the PTA Council as the race approaches. For additional details on participating in the race or to become a volunteer, please call 314-953-5000.
May 15: Golf fundraiser
Christian Hospital Foundation is hosting their seventh-annual Golf Outing at Norwood Hills Country Club. The day includes lunch, shotgun start, 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 service, compassionate care and clinical excellence to directly improve the health and wellness of our community. The foundation supports efforts such as patient care, advanced medicine and technology, community benefit programs, community health access and staff education. Sponsorships are still available and cost for a foursome is $900; individual play is $225; or cocktail/dinner only is $75. Event day packages, which includes mulligans, on-course game participation and raffle tickets, are $50 per person. For more information, please visit the website at http://www.christianhospital.org/golf or contact Mindy Copp at 314-653-4410 or Mindy. Copp@bjc.org.
May 17: Karaoke
Karaoke at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information call 314-831-6121.
May 18: Blood pressure check
Free blood pressure check takes place at Life Care Center of Florissant at 1201 Garden Plaza Dr. (off Parker Rd.) Call 314-831-3752 for more information.
May 19: Bingo
Bingo takes place from 2 – 3 p.m. at Life Care Center of Florissant at 1201 Garden Plaza Dr. (off Parker Rd.) in Florissant.Call 314-831-3752 for more information.
May 19: Pork steaks dinner
Pork steak dinner at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 4 to 7 p.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more in-
formation call 314-831-6121.
information call 314-831-6121.
May 20: Graduation ceremonies
May 31: Karaoke
The Hazelwood School District High School commencements will take place at the University of MissouriSt. Louis in the Mark Twain Building, at the following times: Hazelwood Central High School at 10 a.m., Hazelwood East High School at 2:30 p.m. and Hazelwood West High School at 7 p.m.
May 21: Gospel concert
Coleman-Wright CME Church invites you to its Women’s Day Concert, “Sing for Joy,” at 3 p.m. at 9777 Halls Ferry Road. Rev. Janci Finkley, Sr. is the pastor. Everyone welcome.
May 24: Karaoke
Karaoke at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information call 314-831-6121.
May 26: Chicken dinner
Chicken dinner at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 4 to 7 p.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information call 314-831-6121.
May 27: CDM Mind and Body 5K
The fifth annual CDM Mind and Body 5K – A Focus on Health Awareness, hosted by Christ Deliverance Ministry challenges St. Louisans to implement lifestyle change with a 5K run/walk through Tower Grove Park that will feature the Tower Grove Farmer’s Market and to challenge themselves to a butt-kicking boot camp. Check-in begins at 7 a.m.; race shotgun at 8 a.m. Registration cost is $40 for 5K race; all other events are free and open to public. Briant K. Mitchell of BKM Boot Camp leads the 5K – A Run in the Park. There will also be Fredbird photo opportunities, a $500 prize to the first place finisher registered for the race and a breakfast to kick off the 5K provided by Whole Foods Market-Galleria. For more information about the event and to register for the 5K race, please visit www. cdmmindandbody.org.
May 29: Memorial Day ceremony
Memorial Day ceremony at 11 a.m. at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois. For more
Karaoke at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information call 314-831-6121.
June 22: Tasting event fundraiser
Kids In The Middle will host its 11th annual “Swirl, Sip & Savor” fundraiser from 6:30-9:30 pm. The tasting event will be held at The Magic House at 516 S Kirkwood Road in St. Louis County. The evening features hors d’oeuvres from various local restaurants, unlimited wine tastings, beer tastings from Urban Chestnut and a raffle prize of a vacation for two to Sonoma Valley wine country. All proceeds provide counseling services for kids and families in the middle of a separation, divorce or remarriage. Sponsorships are available. Tickets are $75 per guest or $100 at the door. For more information visit www. kidsinthemiddle.org or call 314-9099922.
RECURRING EVENTS Weekdays: Food pantry volunteers needed The Harvey Kornblum Jewish Food Pantry is in need of ongoing adult volunteers to sort food, stock shelves and shop with clients. Two-to-four hour shifts are available, Monday-Friday 8:45 a.m.-3:45 p.m. To learn more or to join this fun group, contact Chelsey Banaskavich at 314-5131674 or cbanaskavich@jfcs-stl. org. Weekdays: Volunteer drivers The St. Louis County Older Resident Programs need volunteer drivers who live in St. Louis County to give a few hours during the day to provide transportation to and from doctor’s appointments for our senior residents of St. Louis County that lives near you! No weekends and mileage reimbursement is available. Call today at 314-615-4516. Mondays: City council meetings City of Pine Lawn holds regular city council meetings at city hall at 6250 Steve Marre Ave. in Pine Lawn on the second Monday of the month at 6:30 p.m. The meetings are open to the public. Mondays: Workshop meetings City of Pine Lawn holds regular workshop meetings at city hall at 6250 Steve Marre Ave. in Pine Lawn on the fourth Monday of the month at 6:30 p.m. The meetings are open to the public. Mondays: A cappella singers
All men who like to sing are invited to come sing with us, The Men of Harmony. We practice every Monday night at 7 p.m. at 5500 Parker Road which is the first house on Uthe Lane. We sing four-part harmony a capella (without accompaniment ). We sing some traditional songs, as well as show tunes and more contemporary music. We do perform for the public at various functions. Persons interested can come right on in or for more information call Al at 314-9936134.
Tuesdays: mous
Alcoholics
Anony-
Alcoholics Anonymous Informational Meeting takes place every Tuesday at 8 p.m. at 7222 N. Lindbergh Blvd. (behind the Holiday Inn Express off
the Taylor Rd. exit) in Hazelwood. This free meeting is for anyone who is interested in learning more about Alcoholics Anonymous, how it started, what it’s all about and how it works. This is an hour-long meeting with a short presentation, followed by a question and answer session with current members. For more information call 314-731-4854.
Tuesdays: Choir rehearsals
The St. Louis Chordinals, a women’s a cappella chorus, rehearse every Tuesday evening from 7 - 9:30 p.m. at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church at 12397 Natural Bridge Rd. in Bridgeton (next to the Bridgeton Government Center). For more information call Linda at 314-839-3495 or visit stlouischordinals.org.
Tuesdays: Lung cancer support group
The Lung Cancer Networking Group is open to anyone affected by lung cancer and meets at Christian Hospital at 11133 Dunn Rd. every second Tuesday of the month from 6 - 7:30 p.m. in Room 2100. No RSVP required. Christian Hospital has partnered with the Cancer Support Community of Greater St. Louis to provide this group meeting. Drop-in to the monthly meetings to discuss, ask questions and learn how others manager side effects, symptoms and the day-to-day of cancer. Connect with other care partners who are learning about cancer and how it impacts their friends and family members. Share and hear stories from others who “get it.” Discover the power of group support when you meet with a licensed facilitator, other people (family, friends, patients) affected by a cancer diagnosis.
Tuesdays: TOPS pounds sensibly)
(Take
off
From 9:15 - 10:30 a.m. located at John F. Kennedy Center/Henry Koch Ctr., Howdershell Rd. at Charbonier Rd., Florissant. For more info contact Paul or Connie McConnell, 314-831-5476.
Every 4th Tuesday of the month: Fort Bellefontaine Memorial American Legion Post 335 meeting
6:30pm, Fort Bellefontaine Memorial American Legion Post 335, 800 Chambers Road in Bellefontaine Neighbors. Those interested in membership are invited to attend.
Every Tuesday: Bingo Evening at Florissant Elks Lodge #2316
Doors at 4:30pm, games begin at 6pm, Florissant Elks Lodge #2316, 16400 New Halls Ferry Rd. in Florissant. For more information, call 314.921.2316.
Wednesdays: Are you interested in losing weight?
Check out TOPS #361 Florissant group of supportive ladies. Meetings are on Wednesday mornings beginning at 9:15 am at Florissant Church of Christ, 16460 New Halls Ferry Rd. in Florissant. If interested, please contact Shirley at 314-895-3528 for more information.
Every Wednesday: Bingo Morning at Florissant Elks Lodge #2316
Florissant Elks Lodge #2316, 16400 New Halls Ferry Rd. in Florissant. Doors at 7:30am, games begin at 9:30am. For more information, call 314.921.2316.
Bridgeton Trails Library Branch Programs:
3455 McKelvey Rd., St. Louis, 314.994.3300. Story Time: Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. 9 months to 2 yrs. Room 1 (Lap Time); Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. Ages 3–5. Room 2; Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. Ages 3–5. Room 1.
www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • May 10, 2017 Florissant Senior Citizens’ Bingo Clubs: 314.839.7604. Every 1st Wednesday of the Month: Stroke Support Group 3-4pm, Center for Senior Renewal, Detrick Building 1st floor, 11133 Dunn Rd. For more information, contact Jamie Stevens at 314.653.5331.
Thursdays: Blood pressure checks
Free blood pressure checks monthly at Life Care Center of Florissant at 1201 Garden Plaza Dr. (off Parker Rd.) in Florissant every third Thursday of the month. Call 831-3752 for more information.
Thursdays: meeting
Women’s
chorus
Every Thursday City Voices Chorus, a women’s chorus singing four-part a cappella harmony, meets at Church of the Good Shepherd at 1166 S. Mason Rd. in St. Louis. Members come from the entire bi-state region. Call Marcia at 636-274-0723 for more information or visit www.cityvoiceschorus.org.
Every Friday: Our Lady of Fatima #4429 Knights of Columbus Bingo 6:45pm, Knights of Columbus Hall, 1216 Teson Rd. in Hazelwood. For more information call 314.731.9330
Every 3rd Friday of the month: Bingo 2pm, Life Care Center of Florissant, 1201 Garden Plaza Dr. For more information, call 314.831.3752.
Fridays: Celebrate Recovery
For 25 years Celebrate Recovery has been helping everyday folks find freedom from whatever difficulty you are experiencing in your life. This Christcentered, 12-step program is based on the Beatitudes. We meet every Friday at 6:15 p.m. for dinner ($5); 7 p.m. large group meeting; 8 p.m. Small groups sharing; 9 p.m. dessert at First Christian Church of Florissant at 2890 Patterson Rd. in Florissant. For more information call 314-837-2269 or visit http://www.fccf.org/ or Facebook page Celebrate Recovery-FCCF.
Saturdays: Clothing sale
On the second Saturday of each month Bethany-Peace UCC at 11952 Bellefontaine Rd. in St. Louis County hosts a clothing sale from 9 - 11 a.m. For sale are used clothing and shoes, some household items, books and toys. Fill your bag for $1.
Saturdays: Grief support group
A Way with Words Grief Support Ministry meets the fourth Saturday each month at Community Christ Fellowship (in the rear) at121 Williams Blvd. in Hazelwood from 12:30 - 2:30 p.m. For more information contact Pat Ryan at 314-605-3949.
Every Fourth Saturday’s Writer’s Workshop 10 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. at Baden Library, at 8448 Church Rd. For more information call 314-388-2400.
Sundays: Meat shoot
Come and enjoy the meat shoots at American Legion Post 444 located on 17090 Old Jamestown Road between Sinks Rd and Lindbergh starting at noon until dusk every Sunday in February and March in the spring and every Sunday in October through the second-to-last week in November in the fall - rain or shine. Great meat prizes awarded. Sundays: AMVETS meat shoot Sundays in September through April, AMVETS Post 55, located on 8842 Natural Bridge Rd. in Bel-Ridge will be hosting meat shoots with practice beginning at 11 a.m. and rounds starting at noon. Shooters must be 18 or older and will shoot #9’s with no bull barrels or scopes and 675 minimum chokes. The shooting area is indoors
and food and drink are available in the club room. For more information, contact 314-630-2671 or 314-330-7269.
Every Sunday: 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
Sundays: meeting
Jennings
Do-Dads
The Jennings Do-Dads hold meetings every third Sunday of the month (except June which is the second Sunday and no meeting in December) at 1 p.m. at Classics Bar & Grill at 11601 West Florissant Avenue. Those interested in membership are invited to attend. For more information visit www.jenningsdodads.org.
CHURCH Tuesdays & Thursdays: Chapel of the Cross Lutheran Church GriefShare Support Group Tuesdays from 2 - 4pm and Thursday from 6:30 - 8:30pm, 11645 Benham Rd., 314.741.3737
HEALTH Every Mon. & Tues.: Healthy Meal Replacement (HMR) Program Orientation
Mondays: 6–7pm Tuesdays: Noon– 1pm SSM DePaul Wellness Center. Attend a free orientation to learn: the Five Success Variables needed to lose weight, different diet options available and how important physical activity really is. Please call to register at 1.877.477.6954.
Every Monday-Friday: Evening Front Desk Volunteers Needed
4-7pm, Christian Hospital, 1225 Graham Rd. in Florissant. For more information, please contact Lee Shields at 314.653.5032.
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.
What’s Happening
serves families throughout the greater St. Charles region. 24-hour helpline: 314.768.3201. Or 636.947.0600, www. crisisnurserykids.org
Smoking Cessation Classes:
Center for Senior Renewal:
SSM DePaul Wellness Center:
Day treatment programs for older adults dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, loss and early signs of dementia, 314.653.5123.
Nutrition Education:
SSM DePaul registered dieticians can help you make sure your diet is right for you, 314.344.6157.
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 Nicotine Anonymous
Nicotine Anonymous is a 12 Step Program, free and available to all seeking recovery from nicotine addiction based on principals of AA. Only requirement is a desire to stop using nicotine. Voluntary contributions are accepted. For further info call 314-822-2066 or visit WWW.Nicotine-Anonymous.org.
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.
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-the-art 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.
Free ongoing 8-week sessions, 866. SSM.DOCS to register or for more information. Classes available on strength training, nutrition and smoking cessation, 314.344.6177
Free Mammogram Screenings:
SSM Health Care free mammogram 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
Last Saturdays: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group: Mother of Good Counsel Home, 6825 Natural Bridge, St. Louis, 10:30am 314.383.4765
Last Tuesdays: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group
Missouri Veterans Home, 10600 Lewis & Clark, St. Louis, 1pm, 314.340.6389
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:
ONGOING SUPPORT GROUPS
Meets in 4 locations in the metro St Louis area. Information: metrostlouissia@gmail.com.
Sundays: Support Group for Women Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse
Wednesdays: New Choices NarAnon Family Group at Zion Lutheran Church
6:30 - 8pm, 7401 Delmar Ave. in University City, 314.993.5421.
12075 Dorsett Road, Maryland Heights, 7:30 – 9pm, www.Nar-Anon. org
First and Third Tuesdays: Support Group for Women Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse
Thursdays: Grief Share Support Group
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
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, 314953-6090
SUDOKU answers from page 10
Tuesdays: Alcohol and Drug Information Meeting Christian Hospital Building 2, Suite 401, 6:30 – 8pm, 314.839.3171, free and open to the public.
Every third Tuesday of every month: Grief Support Group sponsored by DePaul Hospital
11:30am-1pm, Bridgeton Trails Library, 3455 McKelvey Rd. For more information, call 314.344.6873.
Wednesdays: STEPS Schizophrenia Support Group 6:30 - 7:30pm, 314.839.3171.
Sundays: Alcoholics Anonymous Group 109
11th floor conference room at Christian Hospital, 10am, 11133 Dunn Road.
Diabetes Basics:
314.344.7024 for info or 314.344.7220 to enroll.
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
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www.BridgeAtFlorissant.com
CROSSWORD answers from page 11
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May 10, 2017 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com
GARAGE SALE
HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
Call Brooke at 636.697.2414
facebook.com/mycnews
PUBLIC NOTICE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION Spire STL Pipeline, LLC
Docket No. CP17-40-001
NOTICE OF AMENDMENT TO APPLICATION FOR CERTIFICATE OF PUBLIC CONVENIENCE AND NECESSITY (May 1, 2017) Take notice that on April 21, 2017, Spire STL Pipeline LLC (Spire), 700 Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63101, filed an amendment to its application filed on January 26 pursuant to section 7(c) of the Natural Gas Act (NGA) and Parts 157 and 284 of the Commission’s Regulations. Specifically, Spire is amending the application to propose a route alternative under which Spire would construct a new sixmile, 24-inch diameter pipeline for the final segment of its proposal (referred to as the North County Extension) instead of acquiring and refurbishing an existing seven-mile pipeline (known as Line 880) from its affiliated local gas distribution company, Laclede Gas Company (Laclede). The North County Extension would extend approximately six miles from the current terminus of the proposed 59-mile, 24-inch pipeline at the Laclede-Lange interconnect in St. Louis County, Missouri, through the northern portion of St. Louis County, and terminate at a new interconnection point with both Enable Mississippi River Transmission, LLC (MRT) and Laclede that would replace the existing Laclede-MRT interconnection at Chain of Rocks. The total length of the proposed project would be approximately 65 miles. The filing may be viewed on the web at http://www.ferc.gov using the “eLibrary” link. Enter the docket number excluding the last three digits in the docket number field to access the document. For assistance, contact FERC at FERCOnlineSupport@ferc.gov or call toll-free, (886) 208-3676 or TYY, (202) 502-8659. Any questions concerning this application should be directed to Scott Jaskowiak, Vice President, Spire STL Pipeline LLC, 700 Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63101, phone: 314-516-8588, email: scott. jaskowiak@spireenergy.com. Pursuant to section 157.9 of the Commission’s rules, 18 CFR 157.9, within 90 days of this Notice the Commission staff will either: complete its environmental assessment (EA) and place it into the Commission’s public record (eLibrary) for this proceeding, or issue a Notice of Schedule for Environmental Review. If a Notice of Schedule for Environmental Review is issued, it will indicate, among other milestones, the anticipated date for the Commission staff’s issuance of the final environmental impact statement (FEIS) or EA for this proposal. The filing of the EA in the Commission’s public record for this proceeding or the issuance of a Notice of Schedule will serve to notify federal and state agencies of the timing for the completion of all necessary reviews, and the subsequent need to complete all federal authorizations within 90 days of the date of issuance of the Commission staff’s FEIS or EA. There are two ways to become involved in the Commission’s review of this project. First, any person wishing to obtain legal status by becoming a party to the proceedings for this project should, on or before the comment date stated below, file with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, 888 First
Street, NE, Washington, DC 20426, a motion to intervene in accordance with the requirements of the Commission’s Rules of Practice and Procedure (18 CFR 385.214 or 385.211) and the Regulations under the NGA (18 CFR 157.10). A person obtaining party status will be placed on the service list maintained by the Secretary of the Commission and will receive copies of all documents filed by the applicant and by all other parties. A party must submit 5 copies of filings made with the Commission and must mail a copy to the applicant and to every other party in the proceeding. Only parties to the proceeding can ask for court review of Commission orders in the proceeding. However, a person does not have to intervene in order to have comments considered. The second way to participate is by filing with the Secretary of the Commission, as soon as possible, an original and two copies of comments in support of or in opposition to this project. The Commission will consider these comments in determining the appropriate action to be taken, but the filing of a comment alone will not serve to make the filer a party to the proceeding. The Commission’s rules require that persons filing comments in opposition to the project provide copies of their protests only to the party or parties directly involved in the protest. Persons who wish to comment only on the environmental review of this project should submit an original and two copies of their comments to the Secretary of the Commission. Environmental commenters will be placed on the Commission’s environmental mailing list, will receive copies of the environmental documents, and will be notified of meetings associated with the Commission’s environmental review process. Environmental commenters will not be required to serve copies of filed documents on all other parties. However, the non-party commenters will not receive copies of all documents filed by other parties or issued by the Commission (except for the mailing of environmental documents issued by the Commission) and will not have the right to seek court review of the Commission’s final order. The Commission strongly encourages electronic filings of comments, protests and interventions in lieu of paper using the “eFiling” link at http://www.ferc.gov. Persons unable to file electronically should submit an original and 7 copies of the protest or intervention to the Federal Energy regulatory Commission, 888 First Street, NE, Washington, DC 20426. Comment Date: 5:00pm Eastern Time on May 22, 2017. Kimberly D. Bose, Secretary.
www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • May 10, 2017
HELP WANTED
NOVENA
PUBLIC NOTICE
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SERVICES
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.
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PET CEMETERY
Say this prayer 9 times a day for 9 days, then publish. Your prayers will be answered. It has never been known to fail.
over 2,500 pet burials; over 6 acres; over 40 yrs old. 314-576-3030 www.memoryparkpetcemetery.info www.memoryparkpetcemetery.info
P.S. Thank you St. Jude, D.M.
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May 10, 2017 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com
May movies serve up pirates, aliens and The Rock
M O V I E By Steve Bryan
May typically brings warmer weather, blooming flowers and the first crop of summer movies. Hollywood studios especially love to take advantage of the three-day Memorial Day Weekend, releasing popcorn movies designed to fill auditoriums and sell lots of merchandise. Some will do well while others will, of course, fail miserably. Last year’s May pairing of Ryan Gosling and Russell Crowe in “The Nice Guys,” for example, barely covered its budget of $50 million. This year, Disney led the way with “Guardians of the Galaxy,” the sequel to the surprise 2014 late summer hit. Stars Chris Pratt and Zoe Saldana return along with Vin Diesel, who can really milk a single line. This obscure Marvel Comics team had a cult following and the original film resonated well with teenagers and adults. Reviews have been good, so this looks like another winner for Marvel Studios. Disney doublesdown on May 26 with “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man Tell No Tales,” the latest entry in their popular film franchise. Johnny Depp reprises the role of Captain Jack Sparrow, the freespirited, eccentric pirate who always ends up in trouble. This time, he must search for the trident of Poseidon. After a few cinematic misses, Depp embraces one of his most popular characters once again. On May 19, Ridley Scott’s “Alien: Covenant” reaffirms that in space, no one can hear you scream. This prequel picks up after “Prometheus,” which took place before the original 1979 “Alien” film. Katherine Waterson and Michael Fassbender star in the story of colonists who find a beautiful planet perfect for human life. Unfortunately, the colonists are not alone. “Prometheus” was intrigu-
ing and, with the delightful Ms. Waterson on hand, this one could be the summer’s thrill ride. If aliens aren’t your thing, take the kids to see “Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul,” the latest adaptation of Jeff Kinney’s series of young adult books. Title character Greg and his family take a trip to see Grandma on her 90th birthday, but things don’t go quite as planned. Kinney is an engaging writer and his books translate well to screen. It’s also nice to see Alicia Silverstone, who had a breakthrough performance in “Clueless” 20 years ago, on hand as Greg’s mother. After years in television syndication, it was inevitable that someone would make a “Baywatch” movie based on the series. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson heads to the beach to play Mitch Buchannon, who leads a team of young and beautiful people. No one questions the fact that Mitch and his team always get involved in solving crimes until newcomer Matt Brody (Zac Efron) joins the team. David Hasselhoff, the original Mitch Buchannon, also is on hand for the big screen adaptation. The May crop of movies looks good this year, so grab some popcorn and claim a seat. Photo courtesy Disney and 20th Century Fox B o r n 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 wideeyed kid who spent countless hours watching classic movies at neighborhood theaters.
www.stlcompost.com