CN: July 12, 2017

July 12, 2017

Feeding friends in Florissant Newly renovated Florissant City Diner credits success to welcoming community

Hazelwood Police Department hosts community meeting about body-worn cameras. P.3

By Sara Hardin When Max Kayo opened the Florissant City Diner for business in 2004, it was a quaint breakfast joint bringing in just enough revenue to keep its doors open. Now, 13 years later, it boasts a colorful new seating area and has solidified itself as a favorite breakfast and lunch spot for community residents. Diner regulars have familiarized themselves with the extraordinary kindness shown by both Max and his wife Dani, both of whom credit the business’s success with the incredible support they have seen from their longtime customers who frequent the restaurant at 1060 St. Francois Street in Florissant. “We wanted to do this renovation for a long time,” said Max Kayo. “Before we expanded we had pretty good business, but we always had a problem with seating. Since we remodeled, the business has increased about 40 percent. So far it’s been great. I have a lot of support through the community, from the city hall, from everybody. The same people who were coming in regularly are still coming in. We are blessed.” Renovations on the diner began in January, after the diner acquired the neighboring space left behind by its retired tenants. After three months of work, the new space more than doubled the size of the diner and featured all new flooring and colorful red and blue wall paneling. The increase in size has resulted in a completely new look and feel to the diner, ensuring that each hungry customer has a comfortable place to sit. “We had 27 seats. Now we’re up to 65,” said Dani Kayo. “We were feeling bad before, seeing families leaving. On the weekends we couldn’t seat everybody together. We were always trying to put tables together. We see now that groups and families are coming back.” Within the story of the diner also lies the story that brought the couple together. Neither Max nor Dani, both immigrants, could have imagined that their paths would have led them here when they first stepped foot in America. Max moved from Turkey 20 years ago to join two of his cousins who were living in St. Louis. After cooking for various restaurants and learning how to cook breakfast and American food through some friends, he decided to buy the Florissant City Diner from its previous owners and start his own business venture. Eventually he crossed paths with Dani, who had moved from Brazil to become a nanny for a family in St. Louis. “Six to eight months after opening the diner, I met Dani through some friends,” explained Max Kayo. “I had a roommate who

Around Town

Manpower to host hiring events in July for 150 local warehouse jobs. P.5

Community Voices By Brenda Mahr. P.2

School Hazelwood West cheerleaders hold cheer car wash. P.8

Food Photos by Sara Hardin Dani (left) and Max Kayo are the owners and operators of Florissant City Diner. Max opened the restaurant in 2004.

Pop-ular summer snacks. P.9

Movie

‘Girls Trip’ is one lousy vacation. P.16

Weather

Renovations on the Florissant City Diner began in January, after the diner acquired the neighboring space left behind by its retired tenants. After three months of work, the new space more than doubled the size of the diner.

was friends with her sister. She and I were friends for a few months and we decided to start dating, and then we got married. We had three weddings: a wedding here, a wedding in Brazil and a wedding in Turkey. I opened the business in 2004, we met in 2005 and we got married in 2006. Everything happens for a reason. God put us together, we believe.” After 12 years together, Max and Dani have

cultivated a respected, award-winning community eatery. They have recently celebrated the addition of a son and a daughter to their family, and enjoy their life together at the diner and at their home in Spanish Lake. They plan to move closer to Florissant to be closer to the diner and to the community members See ‘FEEDING FRIENDS’ page 2

Serving North & Northwest St. Louis County | FREE Online at mycnews.com | Vol. 96 No. 28 | 636-379-1775

FRIDAY Chance of Storms 89/70 SATURDAY Mostly Sunny 90/68 SUNDAY Sunny; Spot Storms 92/68 FirstWarn Weather

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

2

Around Town

July 12, 2017 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

COMMUNITY VOICES Living in poverty? Connections to jobs available now By Brenda Mahr Did you know over 23,000 African-American men over 18 are living in poverty in St. Louis City (13,351) and County (9,949). Poverty, however, impacts all races and genders and among those over 18, it is estimated that 23.51 percent in St. Louis County and 46.1 percent in St. Louis City are living in poverty. Is it any wonder crime is proliferating in our region? Employment Connection (EC), a proud member of the United Way, has been fighting crime with employment for over 40 years by developing relationships with employers, training programs, and funders advocating for those living in poverty. Employers now paying $10 per hour for full-time positions, say “We will train, GED/high school diploma not required, but no drugs, no records, and no cigarettes!” It is a difficult task to find people, especially men, meeting these benchmarks. Rather than resort to crime, let’s get to work and improve our community for our families. It can be done! Just consider this note from a former client of EC:

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

“At the time I came for assistance I was a homeless veteran with four years of service. I received support through Employment Connection with my housing and secured employment with Managed Work Service as a floor tech. I am now an environmental services specialist working full-time and receiving benefits. If it wasn’t for the outstanding assistance that the Employment Connection Staff rendered to me, I would still be homeless, jobless and maybe incarcerated. Working together with … we were able to make sure I met every qualification and had everything I needed to meet eligibility. I was determined not to be in the same state that I was when I first came through the doors and they were very eager and willing to help me. My sincerest thank you!” For those wanting to work, without a record, over 18, and who maintain sobriety, we have positions open now. With the poverty rate so high for men, we are particularly interested in employing them with starting wages of $10 an hour with a raise and full medical benefits after 89 days of “on the job training.” After one year of employment, educa-

tional reimbursement is also available. Females are also welcome. If you want to work, please call Jesse, Lisa or Jackie at 314-333-5600 or 314-333-JOBS (5627). All excess revenue from this enterprise is used to help more people living in poverty and those with records. Let’s get to work now! Brenda Mahr, MWDP is Chief Executive Officer of Employment Connection, a proud member of the United Way of Greater St. Louis. Member: St. Louis Alliance for Reentry (STAR); Community Advisory Board-St. Louis Regional Health Commission; National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice; Vashon Alumni Hall of Fame; 2015 Archdiocese St. Charles Lwanga Torchbearer Awardee. The opinions expressed in this column are the columnist’s alone and do not reflect the opinion of the owners or staff of Community News.

‘FEEDING FRIENDS’ from cover they have become so close to. “We have always been so thankful for our regular customers and all of the residents from Florissant and Hazelwood,” said Dani Kayo. “We have so many supporters.” “You can’t plan a lot of things in life. Sometimes it’s out of your control,” said Max Kayo. “But people are so nice in Florissant. We are really blessed to be here, definitely.” Visit the Florissant City Diner any day of the week between 7 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Photo by Sara Hardin The Florissant City Diner at 1060 St. Francois Street in Florissant across the street from City Hall.

Girl Scouts collect more than 1.3 million personal care items for families in need Girl Scouts from across eastern Missouri collected more than 1.3 million personal care items through their largest community service project “April Showers.” With generous support from their community, volunteers and parents, girls collected everything from deodorant to first aid supplies to diapers for local food pantries and shelters. The volunteer hours given to pull off this large initiative are also impressive: Girl Scouts spent more than 34,000 hours on this project while adult volunteers contributed 25,000 hours. “Our founder Juliette Gordon Low believed community service provided Girl Scouts the opportunity to develop leadership in every girl and address pressing community needs,” said Bonnie Barczykowski, Chief Executive Officer of Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri. “We are grateful to our community for their support and are committed to making sure service remains an important aspect of every girl’s experience.” The annual collection drive began in 1998, and takes place during April. Girl Scouts go door-to-door, distributing recyclable plastic bags, and return a week later to collect them. Residents fill these plastic bags with personal care items like shampoo, soap and toilet paper. Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri works with Operation Food Search to disperse the donated items to local food pantries and shelters. In 2013, Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri set a Guinness World Record for the largest donation of personal care products—1.4 million items. Since the launch of April Showers, more than 19 million items have been collected. “Girl Scouts outdid themselves with this year’s collection of 1,358,496 personal care items” said Sunny Schaefer, executive director of Operation Food Search. “It’s wonderful to see the mountains of diapers, toilet tissue, shampoo, soap, toothpaste, tooth

Submitted photo

brushes, combs, detergent and so many other items that were collected. It is an amazing synergy of thousands of Girl Scout volunteers, corporate partners and generous members of our community helping our neighbors in need.” Over 900,000 people in Missouri live below the federal poverty level. These families often must choose between buying food and paying for basic needs like housing, heating or healthcare. This choice leaves little room for purchasing personal care items, which plays a vital role in physical health and mental well-being. SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits cannot cover the purchase of personal care items and are often expensive. Good personal hygiene can reduce preventable illness and increase self-esteem.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • July 12, 2017

Around Town

3

Hazelwood Police Department hosts community meeting about body-worn cameras The Hazelwood Police Department (HPD) is inviting local residents to attend a community meeting at City Hall, at 415 Elm Grove Lane, on July 24 at 7 p.m. Department officials would like to give citizens a brief overview of their progress in developing a body-worn camera (BWC) system for their police officers. And, they would like to hear feedback from the public. In February 2016, the HPD completed the application for a federal grant from the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) for over $56,000 to help defray the costs of implementing a body-worn camera system. In October 2016, the department received notice that they had been awarded a federal 50 percent matching grant from the BJA for $56,000. The city of Hazelwood will be responsible for adding a matching amount to make the total $112,000. In addition, the HPD was given a “green light” to begin the initial steps in the Policy and Implementation Program. As part of the grant award, the HPD is required to conduct public outreach and stakeholder meetings. The department is also working with partners at the federal level as well as professionals in education, policy development, training and technical services to develop, incorporate and provide sustaining evidence-based BWC practices. Law enforcement agencies across the country and worldwide are using BWCs as a promising tool to help improve law enforcement interactions with the public. BWCs can provide a visual and audio record of interactions. Some preliminary evidence indicates that the presence of BWCs helps strengthen accountability, transparency and can assist in de-escalating conflicts, resulting in more constructive encounters between the police and members of the community. The HPD is finishing the process of developing its policy regarding BWCs. But the department wants to hear the opinions expressed from residents before its policy is finalized and sent to the BJA for evaluation and approval. During the meeting, speakers will provide the audience with a brief history of how

Photo courtesy city of Hazelwood The Hazelwood Police Department is inviting local residents to attend a community meeting at City Hall to give citizens a brief overview of their progress in developing a body-worn camera system for their police officers.

the department has used cameras and recording devices in the past. They will also describe what are BWCs and how these devices are worn on the officers’ uniforms to capture interaction during law enforcement contacts. There are various ways of wearing cameras such as on the chest, mounted on eyeglasses or the neck, and clipped to the belt. In addition, a discussion about the pros and cons of implementing a BWC program will take place as well as issues about privacy and who will have access to the camera video footage. The department’s ultimate goal is to purchase BWCs for all Uniformed Patrol Officers and Traffic Unit Officers, which would total about 45. This would include patrol supervisors as well. The HPD projects the actual purchase of cameras to take place in early to mid-2018.

Painting for Peace exhibit at the Urban League National Convention in downtown St. Louis The largest and most comprehensive exhibit to date of dozens of the original Painting for Peace boards will be featured at this year’s national Urban League convention July 26-29 at the convention center in downtown St. Louis thanks to Regions Bank. Plywood boards which covered hundreds of storefronts following the unrest in November 2014 along the streets of Ferguson, Dellwood and St. Louis city were transformed into colorful and inspiring paintings by hundreds of artists and volunteers. This exhibit is one of a kind, free and open to the public at 701 Convention Plaza in St. Louis from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. on July 27 until July 29. For three days only and on display at the convention center in downtown St. Louis, these massive paintings will create an overwhelming testimony to the healing power of art and will be seen up close by thousands of people coming in from

across the U.S. to the convention. You too can see these larger than life murals, many of which have not been displayed before, at no charge along the first floor hallway which runs from the main entrance on Washington Ave to 701 Convention Plaza. More than a dozen of these painted boards were part of the “outside/ in” exhibit last fall, spearheaded by COCA in galleries throughout St. Louis. Now the artwork will all be gathered in one place, plus several new pieces never before displayed can be seen during the upcoming three-day conference. The exhibit will take place during the Urban League convention themed “Save Our Cities” and is made possible through the efforts of Regions Bank as well as the author of the award-winning children’s book “Painting for Peace in Ferguson,” Carol Swartout Klein.

City of Florissant working with FEMA Disaster Assistance The city of Florissant has been working with MSD and FEMA to provide any and all assistance available to the victims of flooding due to the excessive rain event earlier this year. FEMA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, has several programs available for assistance as follows: • Survivors are eligible for disaster assistance even when their community does not participate in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP); however, the city of Florissant does participate in NFIP so residents and businesses are able to purchase flood insurance. Call your own insurance provider for more information. • Missouri renters with flood damage may be eligible for federal help. Renters who have sustained losses can call 800-621-3362 or go online to www.DisasterAssistance.gov for more information. Low interest loans are also available thru the U.S. Small Business Administration. • Missouri disaster survivors can apply for a SBA Loan. Low interest loans are available to homeowners and renters; for more information

call 800-621-3362 or 800-659-2955 or go on line to www.fema.gov/DRC . • How to avoid problems in rebuilding: FEMA recommends you ask for ID badges, safeguard personal information and beware of people going door-to-door. Federal workers do not solicit or accept money, FEMA Disaster Teams do visit the neighborhood and have photo IDs. Always check references, check the contractor’s insurance, always get a written estimate, ask for a written contract and pay by check. For more on consumer protection call the attorney general’s office at 800-392-8222. You can also visit FEMA’s disaster webpage at www.fema.gov/disaster/4317 . • Help remains after disaster recovery center closes in St. Louis County. Many services remain available on FEMA’s Helpline at 800-621-3362 or on line at https://recovery.mo.gov/ and at www. fema.gov/DRC . The city of Florissant will also be co-sponsoring meetings with MSD and FEMA in the very near future to further assist victims of the flooding event that occurred earlier this year.

WWW.MYCNEWS.COM

www.treesbywoody.net

4

Around Town visit

July 12, 2017 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

– TWITTER.COM/MYCNEWS

Scouting volunteers honored by Boy Scouts of America Dedicated Scouting volunteers Paul Kessler (Florissant) and Albert Ludwig (Florissant) were honored by the Greater St. Louis Area Council, Boy Scouts of America with the Silver Beaver Award during the council’s annual dinner on June 7 in Collinsville, Illinois. The Silver Beaver Award is the highest recognition a Boy Scout council can award to volunteers. The award recognizes noteworthy service that impacts the lives of youth and outstanding contributions to the scouting program. Just 23 Silver Beaver Awards were given in 2017 from a pool of nearly 15,000 Greater St. Louis Area Council volunteers. Kessler has spent Paul Kessler time as a den leader, assistant Scoutmaster, committee member, district camping chair and district commissioner. He was a constant presence at camporees often volunteering as the health and safety officer. An Eagle Scout and Order of the Arrow Vigil Honor member, Kessler is an instructor for University of Scouting and has served on staff at National Youth Leadership Training for the last four years. In addition to scouting, Kessler was active at St. Norbert Catholic Church and the Catholic Youth Council (CYC) as a sports coach and coordinator. He served as properties chair for technology at St. Norbert Catholic School and Church and

co-chaired the St. Norbert Auction with his wife, Sandy. He is a 17-year member of the Knights of Columbus where he is a Fourth-Degree Knight. Ludwig has held nearly every unit leadership role in scouting including committee chair, den leader, Webelos leader, Scoutmaster, and currently, Crew Advisor. He is also a member of the commissioner staff as a unit commissioner Albert Ludwig and assistant district commissioner. Ludwig has served on staff at National Youth Leadership Training for the past 10 years and will be a course director in 2017. He has received the Scouter’s Key, unit leader award of merit, district award of merit, Venturing servant leader award, and Bronze Pelican. He is also Vigil Honor in the Order of the Arrow and has been recognized with the Outstanding Arrowman award. Outside of scouting, Ludwig is a former president of the Metro St. Louis Parents Club for the U.S. Air Force Academy. He is a past president of the St. Ferdinand Parish Athletic Association for which he has also served as a coach, manager, sport coordinator, and tournament chairman. He is an active member of the St. Ferdinand Catholic Committee of Men and a member of the Fundraising committee for the LifeBridge Partnership. Submitted photos

Girl Scout Bronze, Silver and Gold Awardees honored at annual Reflections Ceremony

www.LifeCareCenterOfFlorissant.com

Recipients of Girl Scouts highest honors faced the challenge of creating meaningful, sustainable change in their local communities and triumphed. Girl Scouts’ Highest Awards represent leadership journeys that help girls develop confidence while they discover more about themselves, connect with others and take action to make a difference in their corner of the world and perhaps beyond. Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri recently presented 419 Girl Scouts with the Girl Scout Bronze Award, 288 Girl Scouts with the Girl Scout Silver Award and 48 Girl Scouts with the Girl Scout Gold Award. Five hundred and sixty-seven people were in attendance as these honorees were recognized during a ceremony at Lindenwood University in St. Charles on June 11. “We are extremely proud to honor a record number of girls who have worked hard to create lasting change in our community to make our world a better place,” said Bonnie Barczykowski, Chief Executive Officer of Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri. “By earning their Bronze, Silver or Gold Award, our Girl Scouts set themselves apart as amazing go-getters, innovators, risktakers, and leaders.” The Bronze Awardees, fourth and fifth grade Girl Scouts, either work individually or as part of a team to complete a civic-service project. This award challenges the girl and her team to imagine what can be accomplished when partnering with others. The Bronze Award requires a commitment of at least 20 hours. The Silver Award is the highest award a Girl Scout Cadette, girls in sixth through eighth grade, can earn. These Girl Scouts can choose to work individually or as part of a smaller team. Silver Award recipients demonstrate leadership skills as they stay organized, determined and dedicated to improving their communities. The minimum time to complete a Silver Award

project is 50 hours. The highest achievement in Girl Scouting is earning the Gold Award. Girl Scout Gold Award recipients are high-school-aged girls who demonstrate remarkable leadership while they work to solve a community issue. The process requires at least 80 hours of service and often spans months or even years. The Girl Scout Bronze, Silver and Gold Award projects themselves are as unique as the girls who implemented them. Many fall under Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri’s three programmatic focus areas: STEM (science, technology, engineering and math), Money Management and Health. Some of this year’s notable Bronze Award projects include donating sensory learning objects for a school with students who are severely disabled, holding a spring carnival to collect personal care items for a women’s shelter and creating coloring books for children to use during hospital stays. Several noteworthy Silver Award projects involve increasing awareness about the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, creating a map of recycling facilities for the elderly and disabled, plus revitalizing a sensory trail for equine therapy riders. Some of this year’s Gold Award notable projects include assisting in the construction of classrooms at the Light Life Freedom’s new school in New Delhi, India; leading third-grade students in a science workshop; addressing the issue of bullying and loneliness by building a buddy bench; and organizing and coaching a FIRST Robotics team for a group of sixth-graders. Nationally, six percent of all older Girl Scouts earn the prestigious Gold Award, putting them among an exceptional group of women who have used their knowledge and leadership skills to make a difference in the world.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • July 12, 2017

Florissant mayor appointed to serve on the 21st Century Missouri Transportation Task Force

Photo courtesy city of Florissant Florissant Mayor Thomas Schneider listens to the presentations being made at a meeting of the 21st Century Missouri Transportation Task Force.

On June 28, Florissant Mayor Thomas Schneider attended as a member of the first 21st Century Missouri Transportation Task Force that was held at the Missouri State Capitol Building in Jefferson City. Schneider had been recently appointed to this task force by Missouri Senate Minority Leader Gina Walsh. The first meeting discussed briefly the overall importance of transportation on the growth, population, economy, travel, health and safety for Missouri residents. The mission of the task force is to evaluate the condition of the state transportation system, including roads and bridges. The task force will evaluate current Missouri transportation funding to evaluate whether current transportation funding in Missouri is sufficient to not only maintain the transportation needs in its current

state but also to ensure that it serves the transportation needs of Missouri’s citizens as we move forward in the 21st century. Schneider served with the Navy Seabees building roads in Vietnam and holds a degree in Civil Engineering from University of Missouri-Rolla, now Missouri University of Science and Technology. He was employed as a Materials Testing Engineer by MODOT before he was appointed Florissant City Engineer by Mayor Eagan where he instituted the Florissant bridge replacement system still in place today. “I am honored to be appointed by Senator Walsh to contribute to the important work of the 21st Century Missouri Transportation Task Force and look forward to working with the distinguished members of the committee,” said Schneider.

Around Town

5

Manpower to host hiring events in July for 150 local warehouse jobs St. Louis and St. Charles County employers are experiencing exceptional job growth in warehouse, distribution, order picking and forklift operations positions. To assist with this increase in the workforce, Manpower is hosting a series of hiring events during the month of July offering over 150 immediate job placements. There will be on-the-spot interviews conducted and resumes will be reviewed to determine immediate job placements. Firm job offers will be made on the day of the events. “We are excited to continue to place large numbers of qualified candidates into these positions which provide a foot in the door and can lead to permanent placements,” said Jennifer Baile, Branch Manager for the St. Louis Manpower office. “Manpower provides access to online college courses in our MyPath program to associates that are on assignment. We also offer health, dental and 401K benefit programs as well as referral bonuses to qualified candidates. We are seeing a large increase in the number of warehouse and distribution employment opportunities available with our clients in the St. Louis and St. Charles County areas – these hiring events are an opportunity for job seekers to find great career opportunities with some of the area’s premier employers.” Candidates interested in these opportunities should attend Manpower’s Hiring Events listed below. Participants should set up an account on www.manpower.com prior to attending, be prepared for an interview and bring fresh copies of their updated resume. Friends and family are also encouraged to attend. Manpower’s July 2017 hiring events schedule: On-Site at Mid-American Displays Wednesdays: July 12, 19 and 26 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 111 Boulder Industrial Drive in Bridgeton. St. Louis Manpower Office Tuesdays: July 18 and 25 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 130 S Bemiston Ave. Suite 706 in Clayton. Located at the corner of Bonhomme Ave and Bemiston Ave. For more information call 314-721-2152. O’Fallon Manpower Office Wednesdays: July 12, 19 and 26 from 9:30 a.m. to noon at 8644 Mexico Road in O’Fallon, located at the corner of Highway K and Mexico Road. For more information call 636-240-1142.

6

Around Town

July 12, 2017 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

PINTEREST.COM/MYCNEWS

www.stlchristian.edu

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

www.facebook.com/Irma-Jeans-Neighborhood-Restaurant-Sports--Bar-2071523199738641

Rainbow Village receives $75,000 grant from Jefferson Foundation Rainbow Village is pleased to announce it has been awarded a second grant of $75,000 from the Jefferson Foundation in Jefferson County. The grant will provide a permanent, accessible home for three brothers living with Cerebral Palsy. Rainbow Village enhances the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities by providing safe, affordable and well-maintained neighborhood homes. The organization maintains 85 homes, throughout 27 zip codes in the Greater St. Louis metropolitan area and Jefferson County. “The boys and their father are thrilled, and relieved, to know there is hope in obtaining an appropriate housing solution to fit all of their needs,” said Michael Rea, Rainbow Village Executive Director. The Jefferson Foundation sponsored home will

be the second for the organization in Jefferson County, and the 85th home Rainbow Village has renovated for total accessibility to serve the needs of individuals with developmental disabilities. “We are deeply appreciative of the Jefferson Foundation Board of Trustees generosity, and their commitment to the well-being of Jefferson County residents,” says Rea. “We are proud to partner with them to ensure that people in Jefferson County with developmental disabilities are integrated into the community and lead safe, independent lives—one home at a time.” Rainbow Village is the only nonprofit in the St. Louis metropolitan area that focuses solely on providing long-term, affordable and quality neighborhood homes for people with developmental disabilities.

Community-supported play area celebrates one year in Ferguson Nestled in the former Ferguson Parks department offices at January-Wabash Park, Simple Positive Play offers families in the community something truly unique. Soft butterfly wings transform giggling preschoolers into fluttering insects. A large colorful foam climber in the corner inspires the imagination of those who slide down the ramp on the back of a soft dragon. The mini-maker lab brings children and caregivers together to create a masterpiece out of a piece of Play-Doh or paint together or on their own using water colors or acrylics. Occasionally there are special events, like a countdown to noon on New Year’s Day, complete with children’s musician, Celia. This July the play space is celebrating their one year anniversary with a variety of special treats and a special guest. The space is meant to serve children from birth through third grade, along with their caregivers, but often older children can be found playing with younger siblings or in the mini-maker lab using the art supplies. To an outsider it may just seem like an indoor playground, but the nonprofit’s mission is to help facilitate playful learning experiences for young people and their families while also promoting an engaged and informed community. When Jennifer Ilardi established Simple Positive Play, she intended to provide a resource that would assist with the social and emotional development of youth in the area. Simple Positive Play provides opportunities for artistic expression, community socialization and fun. As a librarian by trade, Jennifer challenges the perception of libraries. Librar-

ies promote self-guided education motivated by interests. The goal is to make the pursuit of learning and curiosity easy and pleasurable. Since Simple Positive Play opened at JanuaryWabash Park on July 17, 2016, Ilardi, her vicepresident, Monica Wideman and other volunteers have been continually working towards making it easy for children and caregivers to pursue learning and curiosity in the space. Simple Positive Play has never charged admission. As a nonprofit both Ilardi and Wideman believe the space should be community-supported, so there is a small, unobtrusive box for donations at the check-in desk, and donations can also be made through their website. The space is completely volunteer run, which means the hours vary depending on the volunteers’ availability. Typically the space is open every Sunday from 10 am to 3 p.m., and at least one Thursday evening and one Wednesday morning each month. The website, www.simplepositiveplay.org offers a calendar of all events, including monthly open art play times in Louisiana, Missouri and events such as their booth at the Food Truck Knights in Florissant in August. July Schedule, all at January-Wabash park unless otherwise noted. • July 16: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Ice Cream • July 19: 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. • July 19: 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Will Stuck Presents, Hoopla! • July 22: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Open Art Play in Louisiana, Missouri • July 24: 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. • July 30: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Local Author Spotlight: Jeremy Meyer

www.greaternorthcountychamber.com

Jeremy Meyer is the author of the book “Going Off to College.” Meyer enjoys utilizing his creativity side to write. In his spare time, Meyer enjoys traveling and the great outdoors. He is a graduate of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Meyer is a Certified Public Accountant and resides in St. Louis with his wife, dog, and one-year-old daughter that will be “going off to college” in 2034. “Going Off to College” is a humorous and advice-driven farewell for college students. In the book, there are several memorable lessons that parents often teach their children – coupled with advice on how to adapt to college life. The text is witty and provides millennials with advice that is easy to read and apply to their upcoming new chapter. Overall the general theme of the book is centered on a theme of how fast kids grow up and leave home to go to college – and how difficult that transition is for both the child and parents. Meyer hopes that the book will encourage other parents to have a conversation with their child about important issues they will face during their freshman year of college.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • July 12, 2017

Around Town

7

Florissant’s successful 4th of July celebration continues a host of summer events in the city The city of Florissant hosted another successful July 4th concert and fireworks display. The 4th of July celebration was kicked off by the Northwinds Concert Band. The band played and honored all military branches. The popular Saturday night concert series at St. Ferdinand Park Lake returns Saturday, July 15 featuring the Rockin’ Chair Band, followed on July 22 by the SSJ Rock and Roll Show and on July 29 you don’t want to miss Butch Wax and the Hol-

lywood’s featuring Theo Peoples of the Four Tops. Smash himself will be here with the Smash Band to kick off the August slate on the Aug. 5 followed by Billy Peak Aug. 12, Kitty Moeler and Fanfare Aug. 19 before the Boeing Concert Band closes the summer Saturday series Aug. 26. For more information concerning more upcoming summer concert series and other events, please visit www. florissantmo.com.

Missouri Veterans Home resident talks war By Charlotte Beard June 25 and July 27 mark a monumental period in our American and world history. The Korean War, which began June 25, 1950 and ended July 27, 1953, will never be forgotten in the mind of Missouri Veterans Home resident, William J. “Doc” Anderson. Anderson was drafted into the army for the war at the age of 21 in 1951. His service was under the 14th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division. Though William J. Anderson is fondly referred to as “Coach” today by those who know him for his post war involvement in sports, “Doc” is the name he was given as a combat medic by the men he served. Anderson, who served soldiers on the front line, wants young people to know about the pain, suffering, and casualties of war. “I do talks in all the schools and universities, [and for the] American Legion,” he stated. “Schools – they don’t even know there was a second World War…they heard about Vietnam – some of them.” Anderson has the privilege of addressing what he calls “Hell on Earth” from the vantage point of saving lives, unlike most war stories that focus on the killing. He has told of the first time he ever had to take someone’s life – ironically it was while he was giving care to a wounded soldier. “Doc you’ve got company,” he reminisced of his care receiver who warned him of his adversary. He told of the adrenaline and reflexes that quickly kicked in allowing him to fire his weapon with one hand while still in position to care for the soldier. That quick action and the kickback of the gun caused him shoulder pain for two days. Unfortunately, this war that was fought along the 38th parallel, the boundary between Korea to the north and Korea to the south, backed by the United States, involved casualties well under 18 years old. “I had a 14 and 15-year-old,” Anderson told of two soldiers for whom he cared. “They lied about their age…their parents would sign for them.” Explaining the logic of a lot of the youth that voluntarily enlisted, “Boys will be boys. They would say ‘I’m gonna go over there and kill them all mom.’ [The mother would say] ‘alright son. Boys will be boys.’ They looked 18 to me…I thought they were Italians…they shaved…” Anderson stated the 14 and 15-year-old died a year later. His voice trailed off as he ended this topic stating “war’s hell.” In addition to Anderson sharing how the military life of a combat medic was spent on the front line with soldiers, being prepared at any minute to give care to a wounded soldier and trusting surrounding armed soldiers to cover him while he provided care, he spoke of his job extending beyond the front line. “My job was 24 hours a day – medics don’t sleep. At night, I had fifty-something…I had to go in their bunkers, take their shoes and socks off and dry their feet and put powder on them. They couldn’t even do that. Outside I had a helmet on and a big thick rubber band [that secured medicine].” Anderson motioned to the areas around his head that were secured by the rubber band, “I had

www.TheVillaAtRiverwood.com www.TheVillaAtRiverwood.com

“Community News hits all areas for all ages.” -Reader ’s comment, 2016

Why do you read the Community News? Pick up your copy at a newsstand today or check us out online, www.mycnews.com

Photo by Charlotte Beard Missouri Veterans Home resident, William J. “Doc” Anderson served as a medic in the Korean War.

penicillin here, and tetanus here and morphine in the back and I could give them a shot. [I gave] them a tetanus shot [in the case of] shrapnel…” Anderson returned home to Kansas City, Missouri in the spring of 1953. “I didn’t come home with a chest full of medals for bravery, but I did come home with a chest full of pride for what I had done in saving lives,” states Anderson. He not only returned with pride but he returned with what he calls the “last words” of many soldiers which he passed on to their loved ones. “I had 75 of these,” referring to the list of last words from soldiers, “when I got home…I picked what I thought would be the closest [to what was said]. All these guys…I [knew] each one of them. They asked me if when I got home to Kansas City – Kansas City was my home – if I would see their parents…they lived in Iowa, Kansas City or close to me. All of them – I either wrote, called them or visited them personally – all these 25,” Doc referenced the “Last Words” page in his book – “Battlefield Doc: Memoirs of a Korean War Combat Medic.” “It took me a year because I had to get all their phone numbers… [These words] are what they said when I was burying them. I’d tell them you’ve got one minute to live…I knew their guts were out where I could not sew them and I would give them morphine for their pain. If I knew they were dying I would give them a double shot—that way they’d be relaxed….” Some of the one liner—last words that can be read in the book are: “Tell my wife I love her,” “Tell my mom she’s the best,” “I hope I didn’t let the troops down,” I don’t want to die alone” and “Tell my Dad I’m not coming home.” Anderson’s book, “Battlefield Doc: Memoirs of a Korean War Combat Medic,” serves as part of his mission to not let the Korean War become “The Forgotten War.” His editor and publisher, Linda Austin, did her due diligence in researching Korean War history to verify notes and accounts Doc shared with her in writing the book. If you wish to purchase a copy of the book visit Amazon.com. The book can be purchased for $12.95.

WELCOME TO OUR NEW LOCATION! 1820 1st Capitol Drive St. Charles, MO 63301

Member FDIC NMLS #685869

MidwestBankCentre.com

www.MidwestBankCentre.com (314)631-5500 | (800)894-1350

GRAND OPENING SPECIALS! 18 Month

Certiicate of Deposit (CD) Special

1.50% APY** • $1,000 minimum deposit • Fixed Rate • FDIC Insured

Interest Bearing

CHECKING ACCOUNT Up to

0.65% APY*

• Open with as little as $500 • Earn more interest with each

higher tier - up to 0.65% APY*

• Easy access to your money • Must have Online Banking with eSatements

* Super NOW is a tiered, interest-bearing account. The interest rate and corresponding annual percentage yield (APY) are tiered. If the daily balance in the account is $500.00 or less, the interest rate paid on the entire balance will be 0.05% with an annual percentage yield of 0.05%. An interest rate of 0.65% will be paid only for that portion of your daily balance that is greater than $500.00 but less than $500,000.00; with an annual percentage yield range from 0.05% to 0.65%, depending on the balance in the account. An interest rate of 0.25% will be paid only for that portion of your daily balance that is greater than $500,000.00; with an pe annual percentage yield range from 0.65% to 0.25%, depending on the balance in the account. (APY calculations are based on a total deposit balance of $10,000.00) Rates are effective as of May 19, 2017. Fees could reduce earnings. Rates are variable and are subject to change at the bank’s discretion. Rates are calculated on a daily balance method. Interest Rate and Annual Percentage Yield guaranteed for a one year period based on account open date. Must be opened with funds not previously deposited with Midwest BankCentre. Other rules and requirements may apply. Consumer accounts only. Business accounts not eligible. **Annual percentage yield (APY) effective May 19, 2017. Must be opened with funds not previously deposited with Midwest BankCentre. Minimum of $1,000 required to open. Other restrictions may apply. Penalty for early withdrawal. Rates are subject to change without notice. See a Banker for details. Consumer accounts only. Business accounts not eligible.

8

School

July 12, 2017 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Hazelwood West cheerleaders hold cheer car wash

www.rivercityrascals.com

Photo courtesy Hazelwood School District

Hazelwood West High School cheerleaders recently held a “cheer” car wash at the Hazelwood Fire Protection District. The donations only car wash helped to raise money to support activities for the cheer team. In addition, the West High

cheerleaders had fun washing the fire truck. The next cheer car wash will be held on July 22, from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. at the Hazelwood Firehouse located at 6800 Howdershell Rd. in Hazelwood.

Hazelwood School District makes organizational changes

www.caastlc.org

www.facebook.com/caastlc

w w w. t h e s a r a h c o m m u n i t y. c o m

The Hazelwood School District (HSD) Board of Education has approved the following organizational changes for the 2017-18 school year. Assistant Superintendent for Student Services – Matthew Phillips will assume the role of assistant superintendent for student services for the Hazelwood School District. He is currently pursuing his doctorate in education with an anticipated competition date in 2018. Phillips previously served as principal at Brown Elementary School. He has also taught in the Special School District of St. Louis County and the Riverview Gardens School District, before beginning his tenure with Hazelwood. Director of Finance – Aaron Grygiel will assume the role of director of finance for the Hazelwood School District. Grygiel has worked in various finance roles for the last 19 years in multiple accounting firms and educational settings. Grygiel received a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Missouri-St. Louis. Director of Transportation – Christine Wilson will assume the role of director of transportation. Wilson holds a bachelor’s degree in business management from Lindenwood University. She previously served as a school bus driver in several districts before serving as the director of transportation in the Wright City School District. Hazelwood Central High School Associate Principal – Clifton Brandon will assume the role of associate principal at Hazelwood Central High School. Brandon has been with the Hazelwood School District since 2001, serving in multiple roles ranging from teaching to most recently, as an assistant principal.. Hazelwood Central High School Assistant Principal – Dr. Nyron Edwards will assume the role of assistant principal at Hazelwood Central High School. Dr. Edwards has served as an administrator in the Hazelwood School District since 2000. Hazelwood Central High School Assistant Principal – Regina Moore will assume the role of assistant principal at Hazelwood Central

High School. Moore previously served as a counselor, assistant principal, and principal for school districts in Missouri and California. Hazelwood Central High School Activities Director – Josh Martin will assume the role of activities director at Hazelwood Central High School. Martin has been with Hazelwood Central since 2000 in multiple coaching positions. He has been a Project Lead the Way Teacher since 2001. Hazelwood West High School Assistant Principal – Terrance Manker will assume the role of assistant principal at Hazelwood West High School. Manker is currently an English teacher at West High. He served as a full time substitute for assistant principals and as dean of students for three years. Hazelwood North Middle School Principal – Dr. Tony Brooks will assume the role as principal for Hazelwood North Middle School. Dr. Brooks served as principal at Hazelwood West Middle School and interim principal at Hazelwood Central High School. Before starting his career with Hazelwood, Dr. Brooks taught in the Riverview Gardens School District, served as principal at Linton College Prep Academy, and as principal in the Cahokia School District. Hazelwood North Middle School Assistant Principal – Lisa Spann will assume the role of assistant principal at Hazelwood North Middle School. Spann previously served as assistant principal and principal in the St. Louis Public School District. Hazelwood East Early Childhood Site Coordinator – Amanda Reading will assume the role of site coordinator at Hazelwood East Early Childhood. Reading joins the district with almost 20 years of educational experience including two years as a first grade teacher in Frankfurt, Germany. “Best wishes to our new and current staff members who will assume new positions within the district for the 2017-2018 school year,” said Julia Burke, associate superintendent of human resources. “We wish them well in their new roles.”

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • July 12, 2017

Recipe:

Pop-ular summer snacks

From casual gatherings with friends to outdoor athletic activities and leisurely time at home, all of the best summer pastimes have one thing in common: tasty snacks make them more enjoyable. Light, airy and fresh popcorn is a perfect summer snack. It’s naturally low in fat and calories, non-GMO and gluten free – all the makings of an ideal guiltfree treat. Whether you enjoy it one delicious handful at a time, sprinkled with seasonings or as an ingredient in fun summertime recipes, popcorn offers plenty of versatility for every occasion. Find more popcorn recipes perfect for summer at popcorn.org. Spice Up Summer Snacks Freshly popped popcorn is a light snack perfect for summer, and you can add just about any flavor to satisfy whatever you may be craving. Start by sampling these topping favorites then taste your way to other creative combinations. • Garlic salt • Parmesan cheese

Home & Garden Section

in Classifieds page 15

• Cumin • Oregano • Dry taco seasoning mix • Dry ranch-style seasoning mix • Lemon pepper • Italian herbs: oregano, basil, marjoram, thyme and crushed rosemary • French herbs: marjoram, thyme, summer savory, basil, rosemary, sage and fennel • Cinnamon • Brown sugar • Nutmeg

www.petesmarkets.com

Yield: 7 cups Ingredients: 2 1/2 quarts popped popcorn 1 1/2 cups light brown sugar 3/4 cup dark corn syrup 1/2 cup butter 1 tablespoon vinegar 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 package (6 ounces) chocolate pieces 1/2 cup chopped walnuts 2 pints brick-style vanilla ice cream Directions: Keep popcorn warm.

Pour syrup over popcorn; stir to coat. Add chocolate pieces and nuts; stir just until mixed.

In 3-quart saucepan, combine brown sugar, corn syrup, butter, vinegar and salt. Cook and stir until sugar dissolves. Continue to cook until hard ball stage (250 F on candy thermometer).

Pour into two 13-by-9-by-2-inch pans, spreading and packing firmly. Cool. In each pan, cut 12 rectangles. Cut each pint of ice cream into six slices. Sandwich each ice cream slice between two popcorn rectangles.

Popcorn Chipwiches Yield: 12 Ingredients: 1/2 cup whole almonds 2 medium peaches (each 2 1/2 inches in diameter) 4 ounces cream cheese 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon sugar substitute (optional) 12 thin slices prosciutto 12 basil leaves (optional) Directions: Heat oven to 350 F.

Slice each peach into six wedges and set aside. In small bowl, combine softened cream cheese with cinnamon and pinch of

sugar substitute. Add almonds; blend to combine. Lay out single slice of prosciutto, place 1 tablespoon cheese mixture on top of peach wedge and top with basil leaf. Place wedge at one end of prosciutto and roll up. Repeat with remaining ingredients.

Beach Party Popcorn Yield: 2 1/2 quarts Ingredients: 1 teaspoon soy sauce 1-2 drops hot pepper sauce 1/3 cup melted butter 2 quarts popped popcorn 2 cups assorted seasoned snacks (crackers, pretzels, etc.) 1/2 package (0.56 ounces) bacon-onion dip mix Directions: Heat oven to 350 F. Add soy sauce and hot pepper sauce to melted butter. Put popcorn and seasoned snacks in large bowl. Pour butter mixture over popcorn and snacks; toss. Sprinkle with bacon-onion dip mix; toss again.

9

Check out our

Coconut Monkey Mix

In single layer, toast almonds 10 minutes. Let cool then coarsely chop. Set aside.

Food

Spread mixture in 15 1/2-by-10 1/2-by-1-inch jelly roll pan and bake 8-10 minutes, stirring once.

WWW.JOHNSBUTCHERSHOPPEE.COM

10

Learn & Play

July 12, 2017 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Crossword Puzzle Theme: Summer Blockbusters

Yeggs

John Hanna

‘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

ACROSS 1. Q-tips 6. *”Straight Outta Compton” Cube 9. Twirled 13. Betty Page or Grable 14. Motion of approval 15. Speak up 16. Red-headed orphan 17. Rudolph’s Clarice, e.g. 18. 4:1, e.g. 19. *What Groot and Rocket were guarding 21. *”____ ____: Fury Road” 23. Like some martinis 24. Ditto 25. Perfect summer sandwich? 28. Lover’s strike 30. Dickens’ “The Pickwick ____” 35. Plural of lira 37. Zeal or elegance 39. Reduce pressure 40. Maple, to a botanist 41. Paisleys in paisley fabric, e.g. 43. Deceptive maneuver 44. Committee head 46. Tallest volcano in Europe 47. ____ en scene 48. Bean-shaped organ 50. Chows down 52. Ground cover 53. Movie-____ 55. Mont Blanc, e.g. 57. *Maverick and Goose movie 60. *Sigourney Weaver’s 1986 sequel 63. Isabel Allende’s “Portrait in _____” 64. Driver’s aid 66. Sweater style 68. Fill with optimism 69. Make mistakes 70. Follow 71. USSR to USA during WWII 72. Actor Liotta 73. Shabby and tatty

DOWN 1. Health resort 2. POTUS’ West one 3. Tolstoy’s Karenina 4. ____-a-Bear Workshop 5. Britney of “Baby One More Time” fame 6. *Dr. Jones, to his friends 7. Make a pigeon sound 8. a.k.a. dropsy 9. Canned meat 10. Hummus holder 11. Windows alternative 12. Opposite of paleo15. Trying experience 20. Vascular tissue in plants 22. Unit of electric current 24. Cover with drops 25. *B in “MIB” 26. Chinese fruit 27. Do it lightly? 29. Sunburn soother 31. Make waves 32. Tiny purses 33. *Actress Rene in “Lethal Weapon 3” and 4 34. *Keanu Reeves’ 1994 action thriller 36. Sportscaster Andrews 38. Fashion house founder Ricci 42. Bringing death 45. Bob Marley’s music 49. Texter’s u 51. Woodworker’s woe 54. *Bruce Lee’s “____ the Dragon” 56. Type of feather 57. “____ it like it is” 58. October stone 59. Feel for 60. Bald eagle’s home 61. #60 Down 62. Hare’s tail 63. *Black Pearl’s domain 65. Baseball stat 67. Anthem author See answers on page 13

Like Us On Facebook

facebook.com/mycnews

Bedlam Be careful of salesmen. They are crafty bunch who will try and upsell you at the drop of a queen-sized mattress. We thought it might be time for a new bed. First hint: we noticed our mattress had a deep gorge in the middle. My husband and I would go to sleep on the far side of the bed and I’d wake up in the center of it entangled with arms, legs and a snoring head wrapped around me tighter than an octopus on a breakfast clam. We soon tired of bungee cording ourselves to the outermost edges of the bed and lured by a free TV sale, we wandered into the local furniture store. We were accosted by a clerk who wanted us to immediately jump into bed. Oh my, without even bothering with silly details like courtship or waiting to get our jammies on, off we went. Like a seasoned professional, he wheeled us away from the Plain Jane mattresses on sale and hurriedly guided us towards the deluxe, highend costly models. So, in the middle of the afternoon lying flat on our backs in bed, there we were in front of strangers milling around staring at us. It was just like being at a funeral. People walked by looking down at us weirdly and poked to see if we’d flinch. And I thought it was just me who did that. Our salesman nodded to the pile of bargain items stacked behind us and began his spiel, “You know Oprah has a custom-made mattress and wouldn’t let her goats chew on one of those foam rubber cheapies. You can bet she’s never going to throw out her spine. You deserve

no less consideration. So I’m not going to let a few dollars come in between you losing all the jelly between your vertebrae and living out the remainder of your days hanging suspended in traction. You need a good mattress with memory and a dual support coil system handmade by tiny elves in the black forests of Europe.” “Ummm, aren’t those the same ones who specialize in cookies and live in trees?” “Possible, but everyone has to diversify nowadays in this economy. Now then, this adjustable beauty modifies with a flip of the switch to fold to a sitting position and also curls up on the bottom to offer leg support. You can relax while watching television and eat, read and basically never leave your bed until you’re carried out on a stretcher to the morgue.” I was sold on it, but my husband decided on the goat food. It’s amazing how unimportant spine jelly is when a 36” flat-screen is thrown into the mix. Cindy Moore is the mother of three superlative kids, servant of two self-indulgent felines and wife to one nifty husband. Her ficticious occupation? Archeological Humorist: someone who unearths absurdity and hilarity in strange and unusual places including public restrooms, the lint filter, and church meetings. Most recently, she excavated a find in her neighbor’s bird feeder. The opinions expressed in this column are Cindy Moore’s alone and do not reflect the opinion of the owners or staff of Community News.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • July 12, 2017

Sports you see with Gary B... River City has two players on all-star roster 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. The team announced that third baseman Josh Silver and catcher Mike Jurgella have been named to the Frontier League All-Star Game that will take place at Joliet’s Silver Cross Field on Wednesday, July 12. Silver a former minor leaguer with the Chicago Cubs, has compiled a .326 batting average through 45 games, all at third base. The thirdyear Rascal also leads the team in runs, hits and is top five on the team in home runs, RBIs and total bases. “This honor shows that the hard work’s paid off through the first half of the season,” Silver said. “It’s a big honor and I am excited for it and ready to have a good time.” Jurgella has also been one of the hottest hitters for the Rascals and especially as of late, batting .385 (15-39) with two home runs over his last ten games. Overall, Jurgella is hitting .290 with eight doubles, six round trippers, 27 RBI, 23 runs scored and is a perfect 7-7 on the base paths. “It’s an honor. There is a lot of talent in this league and to make the all-star team is something special that I’m very grateful for. I’m also thankful for my teammates for their support and help along the way,” Jurgella said. The team has a record of 25-27, in third place, seven and one half games out of first place at the All-Star break. NEXT HOME GAMES • Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday, July 18/19/20 against the Lake Erie Crushers • Friday/Saturday/Sunday, July 21/22/23 against the Traverse City Beach Bums All games at 6:35 p.m., 4:05 p.m. on Sundays Go to www.RiverCityRascals.com for more information. * Great picks for the big game Women hockey players excel on ice and in classroom Twenty-three members of the Lindenwood women’s hockey team were named to the CHA All-Academic Team. In addition to the conference-leading total of 23 All-Academic selections,

the Lady Lions established a new conference record with seven co-Student Athletes of the Year. To qualify for the CHA All-Academic Team, the student-athlete must post a 3.0 GPA or better in all academic semesters in which her team was actively competing. In its four years as a member of the CHA, 81 Lindenwood student-athletes have been named to the CHA All-Academic team, and 20 have been selected as co-CHA Student-Athletes of the Year. * Great combination

Sports

11

– 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.

SLAM play for conference championship The SLAM is the area’s women’s tackle football team that plays in the Women’s Football Alliance. They will be playing against the Mile High Blaze from Denver, Colorado for the Division II Championship with the possibility of advancing to the nationals in the playoff series. The Blaze have a perfect regular-season record and a defense that allowed exactly zero points over that time, this has been a banner year for the Blaze. They knocked off the team that ended their playoff run last season to advance to their first conference championship. Aside from a single loss to the Chicago Force, St. Louis has put dominance on display this season, even defeating a Division 1 team. It appears that the SLAM, the reigning Division 2 champions, have not lost focus on what it takes to win. They look even stronger than last season. * Rock it women

See solution on page 13

Gary B. 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.byerlyrv.com

www.dschuster.com

12

What’s Happening

July 12, 2017 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Send your event to editor@mycnews.com and we'll print it! EVENTS July 12: 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.

July 14: 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.

July 15: Flea and farmer’s market

Old Town Partner’s Flea & Farmer’s Market takes place from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Knights of Columbus Park at 50 St. Francois St. in Florissant.

July 19: 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.

July 18: Speaker

Gary Jackson presents: “The Real James Bond” at 2 p.m. at Villa at Riverwood at #1 Pratt Pl. in Florissant. Was he really just the imagination of author, Ian Fleming himself… or did this fellow actually exist? This is a free event open to the public, but space is limited. Please RSVP at 314839-5000.

July 20: Bingo

Bingo 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.

July 20: Blood pressure check

Free blood pressure check at Life Care Center of Florissant at 1201 Garden Plaza Dr.(off Parker Rd.) Call 314-8313752 for more information.

July 21: Pork steak 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 information call 314-831-6121.

July 26: 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.

July 27: Summer social

A summer social will take place at 6:30 p.m. and be hosted By DeSmet Retirement Community at 1425 N. New Florissant Rd. in Florissant. There will be live music, raffle and free refreshments. RSVP at 314-838-3811.

July 28: 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.

Sept. 14: Art fundraiser

The Eighth Annual Art from the Heart is a special fundraiser benefiting the local nonprofit, Friends of Kids with Cancer takes place at Mungenast Lexus of St. Louis at 13700 Manchester Rd. in Ballwin) from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.. The event, sponsored by Mungenast Lexus of St. Louis, features a silent auction of over 60 pieces of art created by kids with cancer in St. Louis. Friends’ Art Therapist, Tasha, works with these kids throughout the year on their artwork for this fundraiser. 100 percent of proceeds support Friends’ Art Therapy program. Tickets are $50 per person. For more information visit https:// www.friendsofkids.com/art.html.

Sept. 16: Prostate cancer awareness walk

The End of Prostate Cancer joins forces with St. Louis Urological Surgeons and Arch Cancer Care to host the ZERO Prostate Cancer Run/Walk this September. The goal is to create Generation ZERO – the first generation of men free of prostate cancer. Participants will run and walk together on Sept.r 16 to fight a disease that takes the life of an American man every 20 minutes. Run/walk participants will receive tech shirts, refreshments, and the opportunity to connect with others who are impacted by prostate cancer. Funds raised for this year’s run/ walk event will go toward national efforts to provide research for new treatments, to enhance patient support resources, and to educate men

and families about prostate cancer. The race will take place at Creve Coeur Park - Sailboat Cove. For more information, visit www.zeroprostatecancerrun.org/stlouis.

Sept. 30: Charity golf tournament

The Hazelwood School District Foundation will host its Third Annual Charity Golf Tournament at the Old Florissant Golf Course at 50 Country Club Lane in Florissant. This event will take place with a shotgun start at 8 a.m. The cost of the tournament is $100 per golfer. This cost includes entry into all events, 18-holes of golf, cart, breakfast, snacks, lunch and a chance to win several prizes. Proceeds from the tournament will benefit the following programs: Hazelwood Bright Futures, HSD Food 4 Thought, and Care to Learn-Hazelwood, which share the same mission – to help provide basic necessities for students in areas of health, hunger and hygiene. To register your team or for sponsorship information, contact Alecia White at 314-953-5016 or by email at info@hazelwoodschools.org.

Oct. 7: Arts and crafts festival

St. Ann Catholic Church at 7530 Natural Bridge Rd. in Normandy is hosting an arts and crafts festival from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. The proceeds from the festival support the efforts of the St. Vincent DePaul conference in helping neighbors in need. At the festival there will be presentations on praying with art and insights into the artwork of the St. John’s Bible. Artists are invited to sell their artwork and sacred art at the festival. Table rental for artwork displays is $30 per table. Table rental payments are collected at the church office. For more information call 314-385-5090.

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

Weekdays: Volunteer drivers The St. Louis County Older Resident Programs need volunteer drivers who live in St. Louis County to give a few hours during the day to provide transportation to and from doctor’s appointments for our senior residents of St. Louis County that lives near you! No weekends and mileage reimbursement is available. Call today at 314615-4516. 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 314-993-6134.

Tuesdays: Alcoholics Anonymous

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.

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.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • July 12, 2017 Thursdays: checks

Blood

pressure

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 ac-

cepted. 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.

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 Center:

Hospital

Recovery

Outpatient mental health and substance abuse treatment for adults, 314.953.8100.

CHURCH

Volunteers Needed at Christian Hospital: Call 314.653.5032

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

Nicotine Anonymous

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.

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 serves families throughout the greater St. Charles region. 24-hour helpline: 314.768.3201. Or 636.947.0600, www.crisisnurserykids.org

Center for Senior Renewal:

Day treatment programs for older

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 314822-2066 or visit WWW.NicotineAnonymous.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.

Smoking Cessation Classes:

Free ongoing 8-week sessions, 866. SSM.DOCS to register or for more information.

SSM DePaul Wellness Center:

Classes available on strength training, nutrition and smoking cessation, 314.344.6177

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

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

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

Third Saturdays: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group

At Delmar Gardens North, 4401 Parker Rd., Florissant, 9am, 314.355.1516, Helpline 800.272.3900

What’s Happening

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:

Meets in 4 locations in the metro St Louis area. Information: metrostlouissia@gmail.com.

Wednesdays: New Choices NarAnon Family Group at Zion Lutheran Church

12075 Dorsett Road, Maryland Heights, 7:30 – 9pm, www.NarAnon.org

SUDOKU answers from page 11

13

Thursdays: Grief Share Support Group

Church of the Nazarene, 1309 N. Elizabeth Ave., Ferguson 6:30 - 8pm, leecedra@sbcglobal.net

Mondays & Thursdays: Breathe/ for people with pulmonary disease Graham Medical Center, 1150 Graham Rd. Suite 104, 11am - 12pm, $30, 314-953-6090

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

Calcium Scoring Heart Scan Program

SSM DePaul Health Center. This program uses advanced (CT) imaging to scan the arteries around the heart and measure or score the amount of calcium present in the plaque deposits. This screening, in combination with other heart disease risk factors (high cholesterol, high blood pressure, cigarette smoking, physical inactivity, etc.) can help determine an overall picture of your current heart health and your risk for developing heart disease. Call 314.344.6030 to learn more about the heart scan program or to schedule an appointment.

CROSSWORD answers from page 10

14

July 12, 2017 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

HELP WANTED

NOVENA

SERVICES PET CEMETERY

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.

www.applitrack.com/fhsd/onlineapp

www.dawcstl.com

Say this prayer 9 times a day for 9 days, then publish. Your prayers will be answered. It has never been known to fail.

P.S. Thank you St. Jude, R.H.

www.everyonebenefits.com/GaryB

CLASSIFIED SPECIAL! For Garage Sales Moving Sales Yard Sales or Sale of Items

“Stuff ” Piling Up? Let

15.00

$

help advertise YOUR sale! Call Brooke at 636.697.2414

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

CALL 636-697-2414 STATEWIDE CLASSIFIEDS

http://careers.fivestarliving.com/

facebook.com/mycnews

Check it Out! www.MYCNEWS.com

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • July 12, 2017

15

CLASSIFIEDS

www.cozyhomecleaners.org

Published Every Week Since 1921 Family-Owned & Operated

www.HomeWashersStl.com www.treesbywoody.net

www.scrubbydutch.com

Our FREE publications are available in over 700 convenient locations, including every Dierbergs, Schnucks and Shop ’N Save.

16

July 12, 2017 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

“Girls Trip”

‘Girls Trip’ is one lousy vacation

M O V I E By Steve Bryan

In June, actress Elizabeth Banks called out prolific director Steven Spielberg for a lack of female leads in his films. After learning that Spielberg had indeed directed three films (“The Sugarland Express,” “The Color Purple” and “The BFG”) with strong female protagonists, Banks apologized for her original remarks. A film with female leads is no guarantee of quality, though. Even with four talented actresses to work with, Malcom D. Lee, director of “Girls Trip,” let this picture veer off the road. Billed as a comedy, it is crude, disgusting and completely offensive. It definitely shows that actresses can indeed make movies as morally bankrupt as their male counterparts. Regina Hall plays Ryan, a successful self-help author who appears to have the perfect marriage. She uses her upcoming trip to the annual Essence Festival in New Orleans to reunite with her childhood friends: working mom Lisa (Jada Pinkett Smith), gossip blogger Sasha (Queen Latifah) and wild child Dina (Tiffany Haddish). It’s an effort to mend fences and reconnect with their lost youth set against a Louisiana backdrop. On paper, this sounds like a familiar tale that could have been handled with grace, charm and humor. Instead, director Malcom D. Lee takes his female protagonists on a sleazy tour of the Big Easy. Tiffany Haddish’s Dina, for instance, is a non-stop chatterbox talking about body parts and encouraging Jada Pinkett Smith’s more reserved Lisa to hook up with a man or two while at the Essence Festival. To her credit, Regina Hall gives the character of Ryan a semblance of complexity and depth. Hiding marital troubles from her fans, the well-respected author tries to build up her personal brand as her home life falls apart. She also reconnects with Queen Latifah’s character, who struggles not to use her friendship with Ryan for personal gain. “Girls Trip” is essentially an extended dirty joke that lasts over two hours. A scene where the ladies zipline between buildings becomes a true gross-out moment about Lisa’s weak bladder. The opinionated Dina keeps talking about a sexual technique called “grapefruiting” that later leads to a painfully demented onscreen moment.

The ladies also are immune to the consequences of their actions, especially Dina, who is ready to incite violence at the drop of a booze bottle. Fistfights, power drinking and foul language are typically associated with male-oriented comedies, but these actresses leave their counterparts in the dust. If these are the types of female leads Elizabeth Banks wanted, then mission accomplished. Films like this one must be the new norm, with Scarlett Johannsson’s “Rough Night” leaving theaters as “Girl’s Trip” arrives on the next flight. Airlines typically recommend travel insurance, and that same recommendation applies to this film because it is one lousy vacation. “Girls Trip,” rated R for crude and sexual content throughout, pervasive language, brief graphic nudity and drug material, opens in theaters on Friday, July 21. “Girls Trip” photo courtesy of Universal Pictures Born and raised in South St. Louis, Steve Bryan is now based in Anaheim, California, and has been allowed access to movie and television sets to see actors and directors at work. Though his writing has taken him far from St. Louis, Steve is, at heart, still the same wide-eyed kid who spent countless hours watching classic movies at neighborhood theaters.

www.aarp.org/stlouis

www.aperioncare.com