October 23, 2019
Educator house calls
Around Town
COMMUNITY VOICES By Angela Clabon. Pg. 2 Oct. 26: Gateway Arch hosts ‘Frights & Heights’ Halloween celebration. Pg. 3
Business Ameren MO bringing solar generation to neighborhoods across the state. P.7
Features
Teachers and families sit together at a HOME WORKS! family dinner event at Hazelwood Southeast Middle School.
Submitted photo
HOME WORKS! program has teachers from Hazelwood School District paying visits to the homes of their students to help families engage in their children’s education By Charlotte Beard According to a local teacher home visit program, many states in the U.S. require home visits before a child’s first year of school. It also states that programs in Texas and California report results of increased academic achievement and test scores, improved attendance and homework completion, a significant increase in family involvement and improved attitudes about school by both the student and the family. As a result of the findings (and the founder’s visit to observe the program in Texas), it inspired the creation of St. Louis’ Home Works! Program in 2007. The program is utilized in nine school districts in Missouri, including North County’s Hazelwood School District. Karen Kalish, Founder and CEO of the Home Works! Program states that the program was created to get parents and families engaged in their children’s education, including partnering with their teachers.
“Children are learning how to read from birth to eight years old,” stated Kalish who is a former teacher with years of community service focused on literacy. “But from fourth grade on they must read to learn, and if they don’t have those skills it’s very, very tough for them, which leads to the problems that we’re having (in education) and the drop-out rate. We need these children desperately for our future workforce.” The HOME WORKS! program has three components: home visits, family dinners (sponsored by the program), and parent-teacher learning team meetings. All schools must implement one home visit, one family dinner, and one other component which may include a second home visit or a parent-teacher learning team meeting. “(The teachers) have to go through (threehour) training because they’re going into homes that are often very different from their
own,” stated Kalish. “We love it when the school districts allow anyone that wants to go (on a visit), including the lunch (servers) or custodians. Anyone that is trained can go on the visit. There are two people on every visit; one is the classroom teacher and she or he must know the academics of that child. The co-visitor can be anyone in the building who has been trained. We really talk about race (in the training) because 85 percent of the teachers in America are white women. We strongly urge that at least one of the two (visitors) look like the family on the other side of the screen door. Now, it doesn’t mean that two white people cannot make a great home visit – they have, they are and they will. But it jumpstarts the relationship when one of them looks like you.” Kalish shared that depending on the level See ‘HOUSE CALLS’ page 2
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Around Town
October 23, 2019 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com
‘HOUSE CALLS’ from cover of the parental involvement with the school, the initial one or two visits may just focus on parent-teacher relationship building. Discussions may involve the child’s attendance, one-on-one reading with the child, and information about the child’s skill levels. Every visit occurs on a case-by-case basis with teachers remaining cognizant of boundaries to encourage parent-teacher trust. Teachers are urged to visit the homes of students who are functioning below grade level, have an attendance or tardiness issue, English is a second language for the child, the child has disciplinary problems at school, or the child is a new student at the school. Kalish shared some of the challenges in getting parents to be open to the home visits, not limited to parents’ fear of judgment in how they manage home. “The children, especially the elementary, are so excited to have their teachers in their home. We use that excitement to tell the kids to talk their mom into (an invite). Keep asking until she finally says okay. The kids want their teachers there so bad that they don’t notice anything at home that would make a mom, dad or grandma say ‘no.’ So, we’re getting into more homes and the par-
ents are scared.” Kalish further shared that when parents come to realize that the teacher visits are not in place to look in refrigerators or look under beds, for example, there is more opportunity to build the parent-teacher relationship. As more parents share positive changes in their child due to the visits, more parents have become open to welcoming the teacher visits. Kalish also shared that the teacher visits may start off at a library, community center, playground or other neutral ground that allows the parent and teacher to build trust. “One by one we start breaking (down those walls). We have dinners at school that we pay for and we have testimonials.” Kalish shared that the program has experienced some difficulty in being implemented for some schools across districts due to some teachers feeling overwhelmed by the undertaking of home visits. In Hazelwood, the program is being implemented in four schools. “We started out at Southeast Middle, Grannemann, and Twillman,” stated Kalish. “Southeast Middle had a very special principal that would not give up on this (program). We’ve had a core of teachers there who have done a phenomenal job.” Only 40 percent participation of classroom teachers at a school is required to implement the home visit pro-
COMMUNITY VOICES
Submitted photo Teachers and families sit together at a HOME WORKS! family dinner event at Hazelwood Southeast Middle School.
gram. According to Kalish, Home Works! discontinued its program with Grannemann due to the level of needed involvement. The program continues to be active at Southeast Middle, Twillman Elementary, Arrowpoint Elementary and Hazelwood East High. “We really want to bring about a change in the schools and wider community.” The home visit program functions due to the support of donors. The nonprofit staffed by 10 individuals consisting of professional educators, administrators, and advocates, is located on 1968 Innerbelt Business Center Drive in St. Louis. To donate online or for more information visit https://www.teacherhomevisit.org. By Angela Clabon
To vape or not to vape? As the Chief Executive Director of CareSTL Health I am always concerned about the health and well-being of the community. Growing up in urban St. Louis I am well aware of the trauma and struggles our communities face. CareSTL Health serves those areas. I am a product of this community. I have family and friends who have faced every health crisis there is. Our communities are seemingly inundated with issues such substance abuse, mental health or opioid use or some form of addiction. The latest epidemic to arise is vaping. How did we get here? Health officials are confronted with new lung injury cases reportedly associated with e-cigarettes and vaping daily. As a community health center, we are closely monitoring these cases because we offer free smoking cessation classes. While we do not offer e-cigarettes as a form of cessation, it is important to remain knowledgeable. How much did we really know about e-cigarettes and vaping? Do you know what vaping means? Is it less hazardous than tobacco? Vaping is defined as inhaling of a vapor created by an electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) or other vaping device such as the popular e-hookahs, vape pens, tank systems, mods and electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS). I was fascinated to learn the first electronic cigarette was developed in America by Herbert A. Gilbert in 1963. Reports vary on which year Gilbert was granted a
patent for the non-tobacco cigarette but it was in either 1965 or 1967. It was touted as a “smokeless non-tobacco cigarette.” While it was nicotine free the e-cigarette produced a flavored vapor. The first successful commercial e-cigarette was created in China in early 2003. Hon Lik was a Chinese pharmacist who is credited with the first generation e-cigarette that would later be sold in the United States. It was thought to be a safer and cleaner way to inhale nicotine. The idea was to market it as a tobacco cessation resource. Lik created it after his own father died from lung cancer. Since then e-cigarettes have been a pretty popular cessation method and in recent years have gained momentum and popularity. Health officials have been fairly skeptical of the so-called benefits from the beginning. Each drop of e-liquid will last for approximately seven puffs, so two drops is roughly equal to one cigarette (14 puffs). There are 20 drops per ml of e-liquid. Today we are learning that health official’s skepticism was correct. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) confirms 12 deaths due to vaping in 10 states. There have been 805 lung injury cases reported from 46 states. The CDC has data on 771 patients in the latest confirmed reports. In Missouri, the CDC has reported between 10 to 29 cases of lung injuries but the numbers are much higher in Illinois with a reported 50 to 99 cases. All of the reported patients have a history of e-cigarette or vaping use from March 31 to Sept. 21.
The specific chemical exposure that is causing lung injuries is unknown. Officials have not been able to point to a single product or substance in any of the lung injury cases. But the CDC, The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), state and other clinical organizations are investigating this multistate outbreak of lung injury associated with vaping. While the investigation is ongoing, the recommendation is to restrict your hookah activity, quit using e-cigarettes to quit smoking and do not return to smoking cigarettes. Visit your healthcare provider and enroll in a smoking cessation class. CareSTL Health smoking cessation classes are six weeks and they are free. Our first class begins Oct. 24. To register call 314-367-5820 and ask for Naaman Lauderdale. Quitting cold turkey is hard. But it’s worth it. You’re worth it. *Facts and additional information can be found at www.cdc.gov* Angela Clabon is the Chief Executive Officer of CareSTL Health.. A native of St. Louis, Clabon obtained a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Missouri, and later obtained a master’s degree in business administration from Webster University. She has dedicated over 33 years to the health care movement in the city of St. Louis. 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 • October 23, 2019
Gateway Arch hosts ‘Frights & Heights’ Halloween celebration Halloween comes a little early to the Gateway Arch this year! On the evening of Saturday, Oct. 26 from 6:30 to 10 p.m., the tallest monument in America will transform into the spookiest monument with Frights & Heights, a brandnew, family-friendly Halloween celebration full of tricks and treats. “We are thrilled to bring people of all ages a new way to experience the Gateway Arch,” said Mary Lamie, Executive Vice President of Multi Modal Enterprises, Bi-State Development. “We ask visitors to don their best Halloween costumes, and to join us for a night of ‘spooktacular’ fun with an experience you can’t find anywhere else in the world.” Frights & Heights features: • Trick or Tram: The Arch’s famous Tram Ride to the Top undergoes a spooky makeover. -Experience scary sights on the one-of-a-kind
• Ghoulish Gourds: Decorate small pumpkins and take them home with you. • Freaky Face Painting: Look wickedly awesome with a Halloween transformation. • Boo-loon Animals: Watch as the creepiest crawlers come to life! Candy will be distributed to children. Family-friendly costumes are encouraged. (No weapons, real or pretend. Masks must be removed for the security checkpoint.) Tickets are $17 per person (ages three and up). Purchase tickets online at gatewayarch. com or by calling 877-982-1410. Guests must enter the Arch at the monument’s west entrance plaza, which faces west toward the Old Courthouse. The Arch legs are exits only.
Molly Crawford, a 14-year Girl Scout, has recently earned the Girl Scout Gold Award demonstrating extraordinary leadership through a remarkable community service project. The Gold Award is a shining example of what a girl can achieve as these recipients have stepped up to generate long-lasting solutions for real-world challenges at local, national and global levels. Crawford was recognized with Photo courtesy Girl Scouts of Eastern other Gold Award Girl Scouts during a Missouri special ceremony at Lindenwood University in St. Charles this past June. Safety Town is an educational program designed for children to practice basic safety skills facilitated by local police. Crawford realized the buildings of her local Safety Town were worn out from decades of use. Determined to create a better learning environment, she decided to rebuild the Overland Safety Town. Crawford constructed new buildings as well as repainted the old structures to mimic the city of Overland. Once Crawford completed her project, she organized and hosted a dedication ceremony of the new Safety Town. The Overland Police Department plans to maintain the new buildings ensuring future generations understand safety procedures.
For the second year, the Regional Arts Commission of St. Louis (RAC), the largest funder of the arts in the St. Louis region, will offer the St. Louis Canvass Project, a free youth engagement program designed for local students in grades six-through-eight that uses the arts to unlock skills students need to succeed in life – problem solving, collaboration, communication, imagination and creativity – with a special emphasis on leadership development. The St. Louis Canvass Project is free to students that live in one of the following school districts: St. Louis Public Schools, School District of University City, Normandy Schools Collaborative, Ritenour School District, Jennings School District, Riverview Gardens School District, Ferguson-Florissant School District and Hazelwood School District. Students living outside of those school districts wishing to participate may do so with a fee. Seventy-five students participated in the inaugural year of the program in 2018, which took place over an eight-month period. This year, to meet the growing interests of the programs, the St. Louis Canvass Project will offer separate three-month sessions, one in the fall and one in the spring. Students have the option to register for one or both sessions. Students will meet one Saturday a month at four community host sites: • Regional Arts Commission: 6128 Delmar Blvd, St. Louis • Beyond Housing: 6506 Wright Way, St. Louis • Intersect Art Center: 3636 Texas Ave, St. Louis • Central Print: 2624 N 14th St, St. Louis During the St. Louis Canvass Project sessions, students will receive arts-based instruction from professional teaching artists, who specialize in a variety of artistic disciplines, including visual arts, music, dance and theater. The curriculum, inspired by the Lincoln Center Institute for the Arts in Education, provides students with hands-on opportunities to explore and understand the arts through “imaginative learning.” Following the classroom session, students will explore the St. Louis arts and culture scene through off-site excursions to local museums, theaters and other cultural venues. For more information on the St. Louis Canvass Project, visit stlcanvass.org.
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Overland Girl Scout rebuilds Safety Town
630-foot ride to the top of the Arch.
The Regional Arts Commission expands reach of St. Louis Canvass Project
Around Town
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Northwest News
October 23, 2019 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com
Local Eastern Missouri Girl Scout earns national recognition Local Girl Scout Lauren Vanlandingham, has been named by Girl Scouts of the USA as a 2019 National Gold Award Girl Scout. She is one of 10 exceptionally inspiring Girl Scouts honored nationally with the organization’s highest distinction for taking action to improve today’s most pressing issues.
www.autospaetc.com
which includes 10 individuals’ stories and advice to those looking to inspire a loved one with cancer. Vanlandingham’s book is available for purchase on Amazon—she uses the Photo courtesy Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri proceeds to print and donate copies to doctor’s offices and oncology centers across the nation. “What made my Girl Scout Gold Award so meaningful to me was that I was able to pursue my passions and make a lasting impact,” Vanlandingham said. “I’ve always loved being a volunteer in the cancer community but the Gold Award process encouraged me to look for a way to make a sustainable change in the emotional healing of those affected by cancer.” National Gold Award Girl Scout nominations underwent a rigorous multi-round review process. Finalist applications were reviewed by a panel of previous National Gold Award Girl Scouts, leaders from a diverse array of fields, GSUSA staff, National Volunteer partners, and representatives from the Kappa Delta Foundation and Arconic Foundation. This year’s National Gold Award Girl Scouts will receive a combined $100,000 in college scholarships from Susan Bulkeley Butler, founder of a women’s leadership development organization and a former member of the Girl Scouts of the USA Board of Directors. The Kappa Delta Foundation and Arconic Foundation also each generously contributed $50,000 in college scholarships for the 2019 cohort. “This year’s National Gold Award Girl Scouts have truly distinguished themselves as visionary leaders,” said GSUSA CEO Sylvia Acevedo. “In a time when an increasing number of young people are using their voices to come together and take action, these girls stand out. They have made an incredible impact in the worlds of STEM, education, agriculture, the environment, civil rights, and beyond. While they are making the world a better place, they are also investing in themselves; Gold Award Girl Scouts are more likely to earn college scholarships and achieve higher education and career outcomes, and they can enlist in the military at a higher pay grade. We’re proud to www.TheSarahCommunity.com support Girl Scouts across the country as they drive meaningful and lasting change in their communities and beyond.”
Fueled by passion, persistence, and a resistance to accept the status quo, the National Gold Award Girl Scouts were selected from an impressive pool of this year’s Gold Award Girl Scouts for their extraordinary leadership and ability to develop lasting solutions—and achieve remarkable results—for critical issues in their communities and beyond. Girl Scouts who earn the Gold Award not only change the world for the better, they change it for good. Driven by a diagnosis that affected her family among millions of others around the world, Vanlandingham addressed the mental and emotional health of cancer patients and their caregivers. She initiated a letter-writing campaign ultimately delivering thousands of hopeful messages to patients, survivors and family members. To increase her reach, Vanlandingham developed an interactive website as a platform where people can write or request a letter. Determined to ensure the longevity of her message, she then authored and distributed a book, “Stories of Hope: Be the Light,”
www.providentstl.org
www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • October 23, 2019
Northwest News
Northwest Views: Cool weather is a welcome relief for many people living with multiple sclerosis
By Christie Derbin the cost of this equipment may be tax deductible if your healthcare provider has written a prescription for it.
zations are making in our community. She is a native St. Louisan and graduate of St. Louis University.
• Use cooling products such as vests, neck wraps and bandanas during exercise or outdoor activity.
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.
Autumn is such a beautiful season in the Gateway area and many of us look forward to the cool, crisp days ahead. This is especially true for people living with multiple sclerosis (MS). MS is an unpredictable, often disabling disease of the central nervous system that disrupts the flow of information within the brain, and between the brain and body. Symptoms are variable and unpredictable with no two people experiencing the same symptoms. However, some symptoms are more common than others and as many people with MS will tell you, hot temperature can cause a temporary, worsening effect of other symptoms. Those who experience fatigue experience even greater fatigue. Some will notice changes in vision or more difficulty with movement. Fortunately, these symptoms don’t impact an individual’s long-term MS diagnosis and go away with cooler body temperature. With that being said, heat sensitivity can be a real problem for many people living with MS because even short trips outside can be dreaded and exhausting. Fortunately, there are strategies for easing the effects of heat:
More suggestions can be found on the National MS Society website (nationalmssociety.org) including a “Cooling Equipment Information & National Vendor List.” People in need of further assistance can also contact the National MS Society’s MS Navigator Program at 1-800-344-4867. Enjoy those beautiful autumn days ahead!
• Stay in an air-conditioned environment during periods of extreme heat and humidity. If an air conditioner is needed to help minimize symptoms,
Christie Derbin is the President for the National MS Society, Gateway. She has extensive experience in nonprofit management and appreciates the impact philanthropic organi-
www.stlukes-stl.com/urgent-care
• Drink cold fluids and eat popsicles. • Exercise in a cool pool or cool environment. If you are exercising outside, pick cooler times of the day, usually morning or evening. • Take a cool bath or shower to reduce core body temperature.
www.LifeCareCenterofBridgeton.com
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School
October 23, 2019 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com
Normandy celebrates new addition at Jefferson School
Normandy Schools Collaborative updates event security procedure In an effort to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment at school events, Normandy Schools Collaborative has updated its security procedures for campus events. This new procedure went into effect on Sept. 28. “We want our students, staff, families and community members to be able to have fun, relax and feel safe at our events,” said Steven Harmon, Normandy school safety and security coordinator. “Safety is our number one concern, and this new procedure will give event attendees some peace of mind and more importantly, help ensure the safety of our students and community members.” The new procedure is in line with other school districts and event facilities in the St. Louis metropolitan area. Event attendees who choose to bring a bag into an event will only be able to bring in the following:
Photo courtesy Normandy Schools Collaborative Pictured here with Jefferson students are: Karen Pierre, Normandy Joint Executive Governing Board; State Rep. Kevin Windham; Robin Vaulx-Williams, Jefferson principal; Dr. Charles Pearson, Normandy Superintendent of Schools; Sara Foster JEGB president; Chris Krehmeyer, Beyond Housing president & CEO; State Sen. Brian Williams; Pamela Westbrooks-Hodge, JEGB vice president and Sheila Williams, JEGB secretary/treasurer.
Students, staff, and community members took part in a ceremonial ribbon-cutting ceremony Oct. 2 at Jefferson School to celebrate the opening
of the addition which houses a new library media center, administrative and nurse’s offices, and secured entry way. Jefferson is one of two schools who received the addition, made possible by the voters’ approval of Proposition N in 2017.
• Only clear bags will be allowed. The maximum size is 12 inches by 12 inches by six inches. • Additional bags that will be allowed are small clutches no larger than 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches that fit in hand. • Medical exceptions will be considered on a case-by-case basis. • All bags will be searched, no exceptions. In addition to changes to permitted bags, no outside food or drinks are allowed, and once attendees exit the event, they will not be allowed to re-enter the event. All attendees, participants and staff may be subject to search by metal-detector wands.
STLCC-Florissant Valley president receives NCCU’s Outstanding Education Award Dr. Elizabeth Gassel Perkins is being recognized by North County Churches Uniting for Racial Harmony and Justice. NCCU honored the campus president and chief academic officer, St. Louis Community College at Florissant Valley, for her leadership and commitment to racial harmony and justice at its 15th annual awards dinner on Oct. 6. Perkins received the organization’s Outstanding Education Award for her active support of NCCU activities and the college’s sponsorship of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration, which she’s chaired the past two years. The celebration highlights the legacy of Dr. King and recognizes those who continue his work in the community. Each year the winners of NCCU’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Oratory Essay Contest deliver their speeches as part of the campus’ MLK celebration. “I recognize Dr. Perkins for her achievements in establishing partnerships to enhance the education of students,” said Dr. Rance Thomas, president, NCCU. “This is especially true with respect to the Ritenour School District with providing dual education credit to high school students and with Emerson for STEM education as well as with other organizations.” Perkins joined STLCC as provost of the Florissant Valley campus in August 2016 and served in that role until the title of provost was changed to
campus president and chief academic officer in January 2019. In addition to her role as campus president, she serves as the administrator for the college’s dual credit, dual enrollment and early college partnerships. While at STLCC, Perkins has led taskforces on developmental education redesign and waitlisting options for students and serves on a variety of committees for the college and campus. She serves as vice chair for North County Incorporated, and is a board member of the St. Louis County Workforce Investment Board and the Greater North County Chamber of Commerce. Her passion and work with developmental education redesign and removing barriers to education is fueled by her commitment Submitted photo to access for all, as these barriers disproportionately impact students of color nationwide. The intention of her work in implementing multiple measures, co-requisition remediation, and other delivery models is to create access to education and help students graduate from college. Dr. Andrew Langrehr, vice chancellor for academic affairs, wasn’t surprised Perkins was tapped for the honor. “Dr. Perkins is an excellent campus and community leader,” he said. “Her heart for students and North County is demonstrated by continuous service in community organizations and relationship building.”
www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • October 23, 2019
Business
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Ameren Missouri bringing solar generation to neighborhoods across the state Ameren Missouri, a subsidSubmitted photo iary of Ameren Corporation, is looking to spread solar generation across the state in a new way. As part of the Neighborhood Solar program made possible by a law passed by the Missouri General Assembly in 2018, Ameren Missouri will install solar generation facilities in parking lots, on roofs and in available open spaces across the state. Ideal partners in this program are nonprofit organizations, schools, institutions or other non-residential locations that act as a gathering spot in the community. “Ameren Missouri’s Neighborhood Solar program is about more than generating renewable energy, it’s about impact. We’re measuring that impact in a number of ways, including increased job training, education and investments in renewable energy in the Missouri communities we serve and call home,” said Matt Forck, vice president of community, economic development and energy solutions, Ameren Missouri. Interested organizations can learn more and fill out an application at AmerenMissouri.com/ NeighborhoodSolar. The application and review process will move quickly. Ameren Missouri will score each application as it is received, looking at factors such as amount of solar generation possible, total installation cost, support of the energy grid, neighborhood benefits, electric vehicle charging opportunities and ties to workforce training and development. Ameren Missouri will construct and maintain the facilities. Residential customers are not eligible. All customers, however, will benefit from the addition of more renewable energy coming onto the grid. Initial sites for the program may be chosen as soon as December with construction targeted
www.seniorshelpingseniors.com/stlouiscentral www.seniorshelpingseniors.com/stlouiscentral
to begin in the early part of 2020. As many as seven sites are planned to be built as part of this first application process. The total number of facilities depends on several factors, including construction costs. Ameren Missouri plans to spend at least $14 million on the program. “I expect Neighborhood Solar sites will touch all corners of our service territory across the state. It’s another way we’re transitioning to cleaner forms of generation in a responsible fashion,” Forck said. The Neighborhood Solar program is part of Ameren Missouri’s Smart Energy Plan, which includes thousands of electric projects designed to create a smarter, stronger, more reliable energy grid and introduce new sources of renewable energy, all while keeping rates stable and predictable. Ameren Missouri plans to install 100 megawatts (MW) of new solar generation by 2027. The Neighborhood Solar program, along with Community Solar and the recently announced Solar + Storage program, all fit into those plans. The additional solar generation, along with investments to own at least 700 MW of new wind generation will help Ameren Missouri achieve its goal of reducing carbon emissions 80 percent by 2050 based on 2005 levels.
www.stlcompost.com
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What’s Happening
October 23, 2019 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com
Send your event to editor@mycnews.com and we'll print it! EVENTS Oct. 23: 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.
mation on sponsorship, volunteering or to purchase tickets, visit www.thesparrowsneststl.org.
Center at 621 rue St. Francois. Call the Senior Center at 314-839-7605, for more information.
Oct. 26: Benefit dance
Oct. 26: Family Boo Bash
Oct. 25: 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.
The Breakfast Club, Inc, a breast cancer support group, is hosting its eighth annual Pink Posse Roundup for a Cure benefit dance from 8 p.m. to midnight at Machinist Hall at 12365 St. Charles Rock Rd. in St. Louis County. Tickets are $20 per person in advance or at the door. For more information visit www.breakfastclub-stl.org or call 314-972-8883.
Oct. 26: Mother son superhero carnival
Oct. 26: Halloween costume party
The Sparrow’s Nest Teen Maternity Home that serves the metro St. Louis area is hosting their second annual Mother Son Superhero Carnival fundraiser from 3 to 5 p.m. at West County Assembly of God at 13431 N. Outer Rd. in Town and Country. Moms and sons are encouraged to come dressed in their superhero costumes to experience a super-fun, superhero afternoon. This event is designed to appeal to boys ages 3-12. All proceeds benefit The Sparrow’s Nest Maternity Home. Event tickets are $35 per mom and son, with ticket cost decreasing for each additional child. For more infor-
A Halloween costume party with live music will take place at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 7 to 11 p.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information call 314-831-6121.
Oct. 26: Senior citizen trip
Florissant senior citizen trip to the Kimmswick Apple Butter Festival takes place from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Tickets are $7 for residents, $9 for nonresidents – includes transportation only. Lunch is at your own expense. Tickets will be sold to residents and non-residents in the Florissant Senior
Kids, come dressed in costume and trick or treat at the James J. Eagan Center from 12 - 2 p.m. from Florissant Parks and Recreation staff, other city departments and local businesses and organizations. There will be food trucks, activities, games and plenty of treats and candy. This event is free and open to everyone. Contact Lisa Welch at lwelch@florissantmo.com for more information or call 314-921-4466.
Oct. 28: Photography lecture
Commercial, portrait and sports photography will be the focus at the seventh annual Peterson Photography Lecture Series at St. Louis Community College at Meramec. “In the Game: Four Photographic Professionals” includes Kimberly Chapman-Peluso, Scott Rovak, Tom Tussey and Marian Wyse. There will be a reception from 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. at Humanities East, Room 133 followed by the lecture from 7 - 9 p.m. at Lecture Hall, Room 103 at STLCC-Meramec at 11333 Big Bend Road. The Peterson Photography Lecture Series is free and open to the public; please RSVP to attend by contacting the St. Louis Community College Foundation at alumni@ stlcc.edu.
Oct. 30: 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.
Nov. 2: Rummage sale
Calvary UCC’s Rummage Sale takes place from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. at 2901 Hartland Avenue in Sycamore Hills, one block from Ritenour Middle School.
Nov 3: Quilt Bingo
St. Ferdinand Ladies Sodality Quilt Bingo, doors open 11a.m., games begin at 1 p.m. in school gym at 1735 Charbonier Rd. in Florissant. Twelve beautiful hand-quilted quilts, cash prizes, raffle, pull tabs and refreshments available.
Nov. 8: Trivia night
The Midas Hospitality Family Foundation will host its third annual “A Night for the Children” trivia at Orlando’s Event and Conference Centers at 2050 Dorsett Village in Maryland Heights. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and trivia begins at 7 p.m. Tickets for the trivia night are $25 per person or $200 for a table of eight. For more information or to sign up, email familyfoundation@midashospitality.com or call 314-692-0100.
Nov. 7: Twillman House Legacy Social
The Twillman House Legacy Social will be held from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. in celebration of the second anniversary of the revitalized historic home at 11840 Bellefontaine Rd., in Spanish Lake. The business-attire fundrais-
ing event includes drinks and hors d’oeuvres. Event parking is at nearby Twilllman Elementary School, 11831 Bellefontaine Rd., with shuttle service provided. The event is $25 per person, with Fund-A-Need levels ranging from $100 to $4,000. Donations from the event will provide public space for critical programs and services benefiting the Spanish Lake community. For more information go to www. spanishlakecdc.org. RSVPs are appreciated to angela@spanishlakecdc.org or 314-733-9020.
Nov. 8: Trivia night
Trivia night fundraiser for Garry Lake takes place at St. Rose Parish Hall at 2650 Parker Rd. in Florissant at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m. Beer and snacks provided. Tickets cost $20 per person or $160 for a table of eight. To Donate Directly to Garry’s Special Needs Trust, make check out to “ArcareTrust II FBO Garry Lake,” and Mail to: PO Box 12890, Overland Park, KS 662822890. For more details call Connie at 314-363-5969 or email: Wilson.joe7@ sbcglobal.net.
Nov. 9: Pickleball tournament
The city of Florissant’s Parks & Recreation Department is set to host the Third Annual Pickleball Tournament at the James J. Eagan Center. The tournament will start at 9 a.m. The cost to play is $20 per player. The format is a random draw of mixed doubles. It is a one-day tournament that will feature round robin playoffs. Please provide your t-shirt size at registration. For more information please visit www.florissantmo. com or contact either the JFK Center at 314-921-4466 or the JJE Center at 314-921-4250.
Nov. 9: Meat shoots
The Florissant Eagles 3638 is hosting weekly meat shoots on Saturdays at the Florissant Aerie located at 15245 New Halls Ferry Road in Florissant. Shoots start at noon and run until early evening every Saturday until Nov. 9. For more information call 314-838-3470.
Dec. 14: Grief share
This Grief Share 13-week session (no cost) runs every Saturday from Sept. 21 through Dec. 14 from 10 - 11:30 a.m. at Florissant Church of Christ at 16460 New Halls Ferry in Florissant. For more information contact Arthur Matthews at 314-839-1449.
RECURRING EVENTS Any time: Tours at Old St. Ferdinand Shrine by appointment #1 Rue St. Francois St., Florissant. Donations accepted. Docents needed. 314-921-7582, Vicki Wittman Email: vicray01@aol.com.
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: Tax filing program volunteers
Seeking greeters, appointment schedulers, and tax preparers to assist older adults in the St. Louis County Tax Filing Program. Training and mileage reimbursement is provided. For more information and to start the volunteer application process, contact the County Older Resident Programs and ask for Mike Nickel at 314-615-4021.
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: TOPS meeting
Come, join and take off those extra pounds. T.O.P.S.=Take Off Pounds Sensibly has meetings on Monday nights at 7 p.m. (weigh in begins at 6:35 p.m.) 9135 Shelley Avenue, Overland, MO 63114. (Entrance is in the back on East Milton). TOPS is a very inexpensive way to lose weight. You may visit a meeting for free. Any questions please call Dan Agee at 314-540-5223.
Mondays: Choral Art Singers
Choral Arts Singers resume practice on Mondays, at 7 p.m. at Transfiguration Episcopal Church, 1860 Lake St. Louis Blvd. in Lake St. Louis. This session will include performance at St. James Cathedral, Chicago on June 25. New singers are welcome. Auditions are not required. See www.concertarts.org.
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.
www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • October 23, 2019 Mondays: Korean War Veterans Association meeting
If you had military service in Korea between Sept. 3, 1945 and the present you are cordially invited to a meeting of Chapter 4, North County Korean War Veterans Association. Meetings take place at the VFW Post 4105 at 410 St. Francois in Florissant on the second Monday of the month, starting at 7 p.m. For more information contact Walter Kaiser at 314-9212132.
Mondays-Thursdays: Volunteers needed
Community Action Agency of St. Louis County is in need of volunteers to stock shelves, sort food shipments and pack bags for Food Pantry Clients Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. Two to four hour shifts are available. If you are interested, please contact Cheryl Piece at 314-446-4440 or cpiece@caastlc. org for additional information.
Tuesdays: Chair Zumba
Chair Zumba every Tuesday from 2:15 – 3 p.m. at The Bridge At Florissant at 1101 Garden Plaza Dr. (Parker @ Arlington). For more information call 314-831-0988.
Tuesdays: Celebrate Recovery
Celebrate Recovery Tuesday meetings take place at 6 p.m. with a Saturday Bible Study at 9 a.m. at LifePoint Church at 424 Graham Rd. in Florissant. For more information visit www.lifepointministries.church/ celebrate-recovery or call (men) Steve D. at 636-634-6582 or (women) Denise W. at 530-417-6151.
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: Food pantry
Every second Tuesday of the month, food pantry takes place from 9 - 9:45 a.m. and 11 a.m. – noon at St. Andrew United Methodist Church at 3975 N. US Highway 67 in Florissant. Other times by appointment, call 314-8374233.
Tuesdays: Vietnam Veterans Association meeting
Chapter 794 Vietnam Veterans Association meets on the third Tuesday of each month at VFW Post 4105 at 410 St. Francois in Florissant. Meetings start at 7 p.m. For more information contact Walter Kaiser at 314-9212132.
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, 314-8315476.
Every 4th Tuesday of the month: Fort Bellefontaine Memorial American Legion Post 335 meeting
contact Jamie Stevens at 314-6535331.
Thursdays: Bingo
6:30pm, Fort Bellefontaine Memorial American Legion Post 335, at the Bellefontaine Neighbors Community Center at 9669 Bellefontaine Rd. Those interested in membership are invited to attend.
Community Bingo at the Bridge At Florissant, at 1101 Garden Plaza Drive (intersection of Parker and Arlington) takes place on the third Thursday of each month starts at 2 p.m. There will be snacks and prizes. For more information call 314-831-0988.
Every Tuesday: Bingo Evening at Florissant Elks Lodge #2316
Thursdays: Quilting guild
Doors at 4:30 p.m., games begin at 6pm, Florissant Elks Lodge #2316, 16400 New Halls Ferry Rd. in Florissant. For more information, call 314921-2316.
Every third Thursday of the month the Flower Valley Quilting Guild meets at 7 p.m. at Zion Lutheran Church at 123 Carson Road in Ferguson.
Wednesdays: Bingo
Thursdays: checks
Bingo takes place every Wednesday at American Legion Post 338 at 9655 Midland Blvd. in Overland. Doors open at 5 p.m. For more information contact Chairman Ed Hilleman at 314-660-1813.
Wednesdays: Bingo
Life Care Center of Bridgeton, at 12145 Bridgeton Square in Bridgeton, welcome all to Community Bingo every last Wednesday of the month at 2:30 p.m. Light refreshment will be served. Please RVSP at 314-298-7444 with the month you will attend and number of people attending.
Wednesdays: TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) meets from 6 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. at St. Andrews United Methodist Church at 3975 N. Hwy 67 in Florissant. For more information contact Norma at 314-306-4731.
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 a.m. 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 7:30 a.m., games begin at 9:30 a.m. For more information, call 314-921-2316.
Bridgeton Trails Library Branch Programs:
3455 McKelvey Rd., St. Louis, 314994-3300. 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 3-4 p.m., Center for Senior Renewal, Detrick Building 1st floor, 11133 Dunn Rd. For more information,
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.
Fridays: Fish fry
A fish fry takes place every Friday at American Legion Post 338 at 9655 Midland Blvd. in Overland from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information contact Chairman Ed Hilleman at 314-660-1813.
Every Friday: Our Lady of Fatima #4429 Knights of Columbus Bingo 6:45 p.m., Knights of Columbus Hall, 1216 Teson Rd. in Hazelwood. For more information call 314-731-9330.
Every 3rd Friday of the month: Bingo
2 p.m., Life Care Center of Florissant, 1201 Garden Plaza Dr. For more information, call 314-831-3752.
Tuesdays: Celebrate Recovery
For 25 years Celebrate Recovery has been helping everyday folks find freedom from whatever difficulty you are experiencing in your life. This Christ-centered, 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: Yoga
Come check out the benefits of yoga at Calvary UCC, at 2501 Hartland Avenue, on Saturday mornings from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Call Angela at 314801-8594 for more information.
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Saturdays: Toastmasters meeting
Everyone is welcome to attend Toastmasters Saturdays 9 to 10:30 a.m. at Normandy United Methodist Church at 8001 Natural Bridge Road (across from UMSL). For more info call 314402-7025.
United Church of Christ to provide basic adult medical screening, treatment and referrals free of charge for the uninsured. For more information or if you would be interested in volunteering, please call 314-521-5694 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday – Friday or visit www.stpeterschurch.org
Saturdays: Free walk-in clinic
Saturdays: Clothing sale
Salam Clinic at St. Peter’s United Church of Christ at 1425 Stein Road at West Florissant in Ferguson is a free walk-in clinic open Saturdays from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. The clinic is jointly sponsored by the Muslim Community of St. Louis (MCSL) and St. Peter’s
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.
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Sports visit us at
October 23, 2019 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com
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www.byerly.com
Sports you see with Gary B... Indoor soccer team Ambush make trade for quality player The St. Louis Ambush is a professional indoor soccer team that plays in the Major Arena Soccer League (MASL) with home games at the Family Arena. A recent event saw the team trade forward Zach Reget to the Florida Tropics for forward Andre Braithwaite. Braithwaite comes to the Ambush with four seasons of professional indoor soccer experience. Andre has played two seasons with the Missouri Comets (2013-15) and Kansas City Comets (201718), before splitting the 2018-19 season between the Florida Tropics and Utica City FC. The 28-year-old native of Kingston, Jamaica has played forward and defender in his 62 game professional indoor soccer career. He has appeared in 62 games, compiling 39 goals, 15 assists and 13 blocked shots. Reget joined the Ambush for the 2017-18 season, which he spent on the reserve roster. He advanced to the major league squad for 2018-19, posting 22 goals and 10 assists on his way to capturing the MASL Rookie of the Year honor. Ambush majority owner and CEO Shelly Clark said, “This club has been working diligently since last winter to identify and secure players who are dedicated not only to the sport, but to the team and city that we operate in. Our fans and the existing signed players of the Ambush deserve to have players who are 100 percent committed to this organization. Andre calls Missouri home, he understands what it means to be from the Midwest, and he’s ready, willing and able to embrace our community.” Go to www.STLAmbush.com for more details. * He fits right into the scheme of things Lindenwood women’s soccer team squeezes by a top-ranked team The Lindenwood women’s soccer team defeated
the No. 24 Rockhurst Hawks recently at Hunter Stadium in St. Charles. The Lions prevailed by a final score of 1-0, improving their record to 5-6-1 and 4-5-1 within the GLVC. Rockhurst created six corners in the first 10 minutes of play, while hitting the crossbar twice. Lindenwood had six shots on goal in the first 45 minutes of the match. Both teams created chances in the first half, as shots were 11-6 in favor of the Hawks. Lindenwood goalkeeper Megan Swanson stopped all four Rockhurst attempts on goal in the first half. The Lions got on the board early in the second half when Maggie Miller scored off a free kick from Kaleigh Kastberg in the 54th minute. That was Miller’s team-leading fifth goal of the young season. Lindenwood had five total shots on goal in the second half, while limiting the Hawks to just two shots on goal in the final 45 minutes of play. Swanson and the Lion defense protected the one goal lead for the rest of the match, helping Lindenwood to knock off Rockhurst, the top-ranked team in the GLVC. Swanson stopped all four shots on goal, picking up her fifth win of the season and fifth shutout of the season and has now blanked opponents in three of the last four matches. * A real nail biter Gary Baute, a St. Louis native, may be educated in business but he lives and breathes sports. As a fan or an athlete, Gary is all sports all the time. He hosted a radio sports program on KFNS, emceed the River City Rascals’ inaugural season, among many other activities. I am currently hosting a Health show on 97.1 FM, ‘Prime Time Health’ www. PrimeTimeSTL.com. It broadcasts Saturday nights at 8 and Sunday mornings at 9.
www.mycnews.com • Community News • October 23, 2019
Recipe:
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Shop local with fall flavors
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.
Pumpkin Cheesecake Smoothie Yield: 6 servings
N
ow that autumn is officially upon us, there are countless opportunities to celebrate the season with meals and snacks full of unique flavors. Choosing locally grown foods will not only taste delicious, but can help save money and support the local economy. Purchasing dairy, fruits, vegetables, and other locally produced foods can amp up your nutrition, and support nearby farmers. This season choose fall flavors that pair well with dairy foods to help meet the required three servings a day of milk, cheese, and yogurt. The Pumpkin Cheesecake Smoothie is a perfect combination of warm fall flavors and dairy deliciousness and is a great way to kick off the day or to savor a nutritious dessert.
Ingredients:
Directions:
1 can (14 ounces) pumpkin, chilled 3 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese 1 container (6 ounces) lowfat vanilla yogurt 2 cups lowfat milk 1/4 cup brown sugar 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg 6 teaspoons graham cracker crumbs, optional
For dairy-rich recipes visit
Place all ingredients (except graham cracker crumbs) in a blender and blend until smooth. Pour 1/6 of mixture into glasses. Top each serving with a teaspoon of graham cracker crumbs (optional). Enjoy!
www.stldairycouncil.
SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 9
‘Jexi’ may cure smartphone addiction
C
Movie: By Steve Bryan
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.
an you remember a time before smartphones, when pay telephones were plentiful and no one reminded us to silence our devices before the movie started? Early cellphones were somewhat basic, allowing users to make phone calls and send simple text messages, but not much more. Criticizing these early devices as “junk,” Apple’s designers came up with the iPhone, a multi-purpose device that was easy-to use and could perform multiple functions. The iPhone and other smartphones have since become essential appliances, but ironically, they hinder communication instead of fostering it. It’s easy to see people walking down the street, heads bowed as they read text messages and play games while ignoring other people. After this genie was let out of the bottle, distracted driving has become all too common. “Jexi,” a rough-around-the-edges comedy, had a beautiful opportunity to tackle these technological issues, but directors Jon Lucas and Scott Moore (“Bad Moms”) may have been too busy texting on their phones to produce a relevant film. Adam Devine plays Phil, a talented writer who is suffocating at a mind-numbing job. Like many people, Phil loves his cellphone, but it inhibits his social growth. He’d rather
“Isn’t It Romantic?” In “Jexi,” he’s reduced to playing an awkward loner who really needs to get a life. His cellphone helps him make friends but Jexi also sabotages his love life and career. The saving grace here is Alexandra Shipp as Cate, a smart and attractive lady who brings out the best in Phil. After a few false starts, he impresses Cate enough to get a date with her and their relationship blossoms. Jexi can’t believe how inept Phil is with women, but his bumbling ways Photo courtesy CBS Films and chemistry with Cate are the heart of the story. go home, order food on his phone and spend It’s also hard to determine Jexi’s real motivathe evening by himself. One day, Phil literally bumps into a pretty lady named Cate (Alexan- tions in the plot. Does the disembodied voice dra Shipp), but his precious cell phone is dam- care about her owner or want to destroy him? aged in their clash. He’s more concerned about Actress Rose Byrne gives Jexi a wicked and that device than checking to see if the very hu- acerbic personality but it’s hard to tell if Phil’s phone houses an angel or demon. The film man Cate is injured. Unable to get his phone repaired, Phil buys a could have been an edgy comedy about cellnew one that comes complete with a digital as- phone addiction, but the story collapses under sistant called Jexi. Unlike Apple’s Siri, Jexi likes the crudeness and slapstick. Adam Devine and Alexandra Shipp are great giving orders instead of obeying them. In the process, she turns Phil’s life upside-down and together on-screen but even their charm can’t makes his life equally better and worse at the silence the shrillness of “Jexi.” In technological terms, the film is more of a flip phone than a same time. Adam Devine is a talented, funny guy who smartphone. “Jexi,” rated R for strong crude sexual content deserves better than “Jexi.” Earlier this year, the actor was rather charming starring oppo- and language throughout, some drug use and graphic nudity, is currently playing in theaters. site Rebel Wilson in the funny and touching
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October 23, 2019 • Community News • www.mycnews.com
HELP WANTED
COLLECTIBLES CUSTODIAL/DISHWASHER
SENIOR CENTER O’FALLON, MO
RECORDS WANTED Cash paid for 78, 33 & 45 RPM records
House calls made Call Bob 636-296-5240
EOE
LEGAL NOTICE HELP WANTED
NOVENA Notice is hereby given that the City Council of the City of St. John, Missouri will conduct a Public Hearing regarding the addition of real property to the St. Charles Rock Road Community Improvement District (“District”) in accordance with the Community Improvement District Act, Sections 67.1401 to 67.1571 RSMo. The public hearing will be held on Monday, November 4, 2019, at 7:00 PM in the City Council Chambers at St. John City Hall, 8944 St. Charles Rock Rd., St. John, Missouri, 63114. A petition for the amendment to the District has been led with, and deemed proper by, the City Clerk. The added pr property to the District is entirely within the City of St. John and includes frontage on St. Charles Rock Rd, generally bounded on the east by the east parcel line of St. Louis County parcel number 14K221080, on the west by the west parcel line of St. Louis County parcel number 14k240973, on the north by the south right-of-way line of St. Charles Rock Road, and on the south by the southern Municipal boundary line of the City of St. John. A map illustrating the boundaries of the District is shown below. A copy of the petition is available for public inspection at the Office of the City Clerk at 8944 St. Charles Rock Rd., St. John, Missouri, 63114, Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. All interested persons shall be given an opportunity to be heard at the public hearing.
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. Say this prayer 9 times a day for 9 days, then publish. Your prayers will be answered. It has never been known to fail.
Thank you, St. Jude. R.H.
www.everyonebenefits.com/GaryB
PET CEMETERY
over 2,500 pet burials; over 6 acres; over 40 yrs old. 314-576-3030 www.memoryparkpetcemetery.info www.memoryparkpetcemetery.info
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October 23, 2019 • Community News • www.mycnews.com
Yeggs
John Hanna
Crossword: Halloween
‘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 So this happened. A cat café was broken into. In case you didn’t know what a cat café was; it’s a place where lonely people like me go to eat their sandwich joined with a little bit of furry company. And by furry company I mean a few stray cat hairs inside the BLT. Along with the wafting fur strands comes the complete cat, which you can freely interact with. These pampered felines are allowed to free-range it and nest atop bookshelves, sunbathe on windowsills, catnap in random baskets scattered about or scamper atop ceiling-high cat ramps all while they contemplate the right moment to bare a claw and snatch up your tuna on toast. Other than that, it’s a very non-threatening environment. So why would anyone want to break into such an establishment? Umm, I believe I just covered that. Please review the non-threatening environment phrase above. Yes, burglars are quite familiar with the cat’s laid-back reputation. Here’s most likely how the cat burglars (Ha! That was a good one and you know it!) went about their thievery. Cat burglar #1: “The lock’s broken and…we’re in.” Cat burglar #2: “Great work. Now what?” #1: “We rob the place blind. GO!” Fifteen minutes later: #1: “What have you got?” #2: “I made a haul: an awesome feather tied
to a string on a stick, three jingle balls and a chewed up stuffed mouse.” “Dimwit! I mean checks, money, credit cards and valuables not cat toys.” “Not so fast, what about this bag of green shredded herbs? We’ve hit the motherlode. I think this place is manufacturing its own wacky weed.” Suddenly the twenty plus feline inhabitants come out from their hiding places and surround the burglars then begin to meow loudly, and claw at the intruder holding the herb bag. “Idiot! You’ve found the stash of catnip. RUN before the noise triggers the alarm!” So attention all cat cafés. This time you got off easy, but next time I suggest if you want safety and peace of mind, forget Puss ‘n’ Boots instead get Smith ‘n’ Wesson.
Cat’s meow
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, he 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.
ACROSS 1. *Birds of ill omen 6. Comes before flow 9. Hair styling products 13. B on Mendeleev’s table 14. Variable, abbr. 15. Lace loop 16. *Cemetery slab 17. Paleozoic or mesozoic 18. Orderly arrangement 19. *Vampire’s bed 21. *Trick-or-treating garb 23. Tan purveyor 24. Best ____ secret 25. What highwaymen do 28. Rossini’s “La Scala di ____” 30. 1 1/2 calorie breath mint 35. Copycat 37. Rotterdam or Singapore, e.g. 39. Expressing an assertion 40. Wine, to Pliny 41. Hiker’s path 43. Ship to Colchis 44. Finish 46. Serengeti antelope 47. Wyatt Earp action? 48. Like Matryoshka inside Matryoshka 50. Bagpiper’s tartan 52. Hankering
53. ____ E. Coyote 55. Precedes Sept.. 57. *Full of ghosts 61. *Fearful reaction 64. Acquiesce 65. Metal-bearing rock 67. Observatory observations 69. *Parents’ postHalloween nightmare? 70. Epitome of easiness 71. Phrase of explanation 72. House of Lords member 73. Mar. follower 74. Lively DOWN 1. Gayle King’s network 2. Drilling grp. 3. Sandwich cookie 4. CNN’s Blitzer and Accept guitarist Hoffmann 5. Blunders or bloopers 6. Fifty-fifty 7. Fly hangout? 8. Ankle support, e.g. 9. Horizontal wall beam 10. Common hosiery shade 11. Type of rich soil 12. Eye affliction 15. Anise-flavored spirit 20. All thumbs 22. Make a choice 24. James Corden’s kind
of singing 25. *”Once upon a midnight dreary” bird 26. Express a thought 27. Gives in 29. Suit material? 31. Republic in Africa 32. Leave slowly 33. Pond buildup 34. *Funny to some, scary to others 36. Overwhelming defeat 38. Cone-shaped quarters 42. Whitman’s famous flower 45. Not silver 49. *Marilyn Manson: “Trick or treat till the neighbors gonna ____ of fright” 51. *Traditional alternative to pumpkin 54. Parkinson’s disease drug 56. Glittery stone 57. Door fastener 58. Malaria symptom 59. Egg on 60. Not far 61. *Palm reader, e.g. 62. Affirm 63. *Fake face 66. *Gravestone wish 68. Chester White’s home SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 9