Issuu

October 24, 2018

Remaking the FFSD

Around Town

By Dr. Rhonda Key and Dr. Miranda Ming. Pg. 2 Moore On Life, Yeggs & Crossword Puzzle. Pg. 9 Recipe & Sudoku. Pg.11 CLASSIFIEDS AND HOME & GARDEN. Pg. 14-15

Photo courtesy Ferguson-Florissant School District Members of the St. Louis Chapter of The Links, Inc. assists sixth-grade students at Vogt Elementary School in the Ferguson-Florissant School District with their new Chromebooks earlier this year. Vogt is one of three schools in the district that will be closed and repurposed under the new reorganization plan.

Extensive plan calls for more early-childhood education, a STEAM high school and closing some existing buildings in the Ferguson-Florissant School District

Movie. Pg.16

School

By Charlotte Beard On Oct. 10, the Ferguson-Florissant School District Board of Education voted to restructure the district, add early education for three and four-year-olds, implement a STEAM high school and close some of its existing buildings. The hope is that these changes will create more opportunities for students to succeed academically. After having discussions in community forums and town hall meetings in prior months, Superintendent Dr. Joseph Davis presented three options for the board’s consideration (www.fergflor.org/strong). These options were the result of a multi-year effort to improve learning and achievement for students while increasing fiscal efficiency. “Ferguson-Florissant School District is the birthplace of Parents as Teachers and we are expanding on that legacy,” stated Davis. Parents as Teachers is a free family education and support program that begins prenatally

and extends through age five. “We are focused on strengthening the bookends of a strong foundation in early education and transforming high schools to prepare students for their future success in college and life,” said Davis. Due to the feedback from the community and what the board deemed to cause the least financial burden, the board voted for Option 2. Under Option 2, Pre-K education is being formed for three and four-year-olds to attend school with students up to second grade. These full-day students will attend school a full week with certified teachers. Kevin Hampton, Executive Director of

Communications and Marketing, shared that having the pre-K education will give students a strong foundation with certified educators and take away the pressure of the state testing that begins in third grade. There will be separate schools for third to fifth grade. Another component to the plan is that there will be two sixth grade schools on the campuses of the seventh and eighth grade middle schools. The sixth grade is being added to ease students’ transition and provide access to advanced middle school programming. Currently there is a sixtheighth grade STEAM Program on the first

McCluer Army JROTC promotes four cadets. Pg. 8

Weather FRIDAY Sun/Clouds; Rain Late 57/43 SATURDAY Showers; Cloudy 57/43

See ‘FFSD’ page 2

EDITOR’S NOTE:

Due to press configurations, the St. Louis County Community News will run independently of the St. Charles County Community News for the Oct. 24 edition. This week’s edition of the St. Charles County Community News can be found at www.mycnews.com.

Serving North & Northwest St. Louis County | FREE Online at mycnews.com | Vol. 97 No. 43 | 636-379-1775

SUNDAY Partly Sunny; Isolated Showers 54/41 FirstWarn Weather

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

Around Town

October 24, 2018 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

‘FFSD’ from cover

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

Alternative School will close for repurposing floor of the district’s building at 8855 Dunn to accommodate the plans. MGT of America Road. Consulting assessed the school district’s facilities In addition to including an innovation school prior to the district’s announcement of the final that will allow students to experience a nontraditional environment in career academies, plans. There is an understanding that shifting one age group in a building to a different age internships and mentor/instructors, the group creates a different level of capacity. McCluer South-Berkeley school will be “They looked at the condition of the transformed into a STEAM high school. The buildings, the site suitability, and the grounds,” remaining two high schools, McCluer and McCluer North will continue to serve grades stated Hampton. “They (also) looked at the technology infrastructures, not just how many 9-12. Hampton shared that the high school computers. We don’t need a bunch of computer labs, but we need computers readily available.” implementations will contribute to students being able to gain credits towards college. In The plan is to have a timeline by Nov. 1 for the addition, the district is especially focused on commencement of changes. The details of the curriculum for the pre-K group may be delayed. ensuring the educational improvements will The hope is that plans will soon be underway benefit all students regardless of race, gender for the 2019-2020 school year. or economic status. For as building plans to accommodate the “(This is) a game changer for the community and sets us up to lead the way for other restructuring, Hampton shared, “This option Image courtesy Ferguson-Florissant School District communities all over St. Louis and literally does not require any new construction but across the country,” said Hampton. there will need to be some work done.” Vogt and Airport Elementary Schools and Mark Twain For updates and details visit www.fergflor.org/strong.

COMMUNITY VOICES Pipeline to prison or prosperity? By Dr. Rhonda Key and Dr. Miranda Ming When you hear about a small school community of approximately 700 students, 98 percent African American, and 100 percent free and reduced lunch, there are a number of different perspectives that might come to mind. Some were label our students as disadvantaged, resilient, survivors, and etc. The challenge is to make people forget about the qualifiers and focus on the academics. In order to focus on academics, you must create an environment where distractions are few and far between. In attempting to create an environment where there is an academic climate and focus, many have said we are promoting a culture that supports the pipeline to prison. At first notion, we were shocked, even offended; but with some reflection we could understand how at first glance, you might agree. We push for the right to come to a safe, clean, and calm environment. If you believe implementing three locker visits during the day, seated lunch and a walk with a purpose hall pass policy leads to prison, you may need a reality check. Rule 1: Three locker visit schedule Unlimited visits to the school locker may seem like something that should be expected of all secondary students. What if this behavior, however, encouraged tardiness, lack of preparation and even conflict? The discipline data before implementing the three locker visits per day initiative demonstrated a large increase in such behavior. This initiative has resulted a de-

crease of class tardiness in the middle of the day and conflicts at lockers. Rule 2: Sit in the cafeteria Working in a promise zone school district brings many challenges; however, it brings a number of unique opportunities for students to dream. When you enter into the cafeteria at Jennings High School, imagine you are walking into your favorite restaurant. Would you run around greeting guests at different tables? No, the contrary. You would be seated at a table awaiting the opportunity to order the meal of your choice. This environment is created within our walls. The cafeteria is a place to enjoy conversation and to interact socially. Rule 3: You must have a pass in the hallway Walking with a purpose includes no passes for the first and last ten minutes of class, always having a hall pass in the hallway and not spending excessive amounts of time out of assigned location. These expectations might sound restrictive. The goal, however, is to support the sacredness of academic time. Implementing criteria that we all know will be expected in world beyond our high school walls allows our school and district leadership to expose students to colleges, banquets, university professors, national speakers, student internships with top universities and companies, and many other opportunities. Why is it pipeline to prison for us to expect our climate to be one that promotes academics? Why would we want

our students to spend excessive amounts of time missing classroom instruction? How can we expect our students to be prepared for jobs and internships if we do not encourage promptness? Our students will be expected to demonstrate future behaviors that promote a mindset that looks beyond poverty, violence, and imprisonment. Our students will be future politicians, educators, and innovators. The behavior exhibited at Jennings High School is simply practice for their path of greatness. Dr. Rhonda M. Key has served as a teacher and administrator in suburban, rural, and urban school districts throughout her career. Currently, she serves as Principal/Director of Secondary Education- Community Partnerships in Jennings School District. Dr. Miranda Ming, Assistant Principal, at Jennings School District’s College & Career Prep Academy is a devoted educator. She attended Alabama A&M University, but obtained her Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate Degree from the University of Missouri 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 24, 2018

Around Town

City of Florissant has April 2, 2019 election filing deadline Procedure for filing for nomination for mayor and municipal judge of the city of Florissant for the election to be held on April 2, 2019. Candidates may obtain the necessary forms from the City Clerk on or after Jan. 2, 2019 at the Florissant City Hall, 955 rue St. Francois, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Candidates for municipal judge must be a registered voter of the city and shall have been a resident of the ward for at least one year immediately prior to the date of the election. Candidates for mayor must be a registered voter of the city of Florissant for at least two years immediately prior to the date of the election. Candidates for mayor must obtain 500 signatures of registered voters in the city of Florissant at large. The petitions and affidavit must be returned to the City Clerk no earlier than Jan. 2, 2019 and no

later than 5 p.m. on Jan. 15, 2019. The affidavit that accompanies the petitions must be signed by the candidate for city council and notarized. The affidavit will be signed and the time and date recorded by the City Clerk. The petitions must be signed by the candidate obtaining the signatures, but need not be notarized. The City Clerk, upon being informed by the St. Louis County Board of Election Commissioners that the nominating petitions filed by a candidate are sufficient or not sufficient, shall notify the candidate immediately upon receipt of the same. If a petition is found insufficient, the City Clerk shall return it to the person filing it with a statement certifying wherein the petition is insufficient. Within the regular filing time for filing petitions, new or supplemental petitions may be filed for the same candidate. Names will appear on the ballot in the order of completed filing.

www.nccsedu.org

Hawthorne Players present ‘A Raisin in the Sun’ Submitted photo

Hawthorne Players’ last production of 2018 will be the acclaimed play, “A Raisin in the Sun” by Lorraine Hansberry, directed by Nancy Crouse. The show will open Nov. 2 at the Florissant Civic Center Theatre, located at Parker Rd. and Waterford Dr. This moving play is as relevant as when it first appeared in 1959. Each member of an African-American family in 1950s Chicago has a dream to fulfill with money left by the father’s death insurance. Tensions increase as each try to find a way to escape the lower-class neighborhood—bringing up questions of identity, class, value, race and love—while outside forces work against them.

Crouse hopes the show “will get audiences to both listen and speak openly—and respectfully—about sensitive issues of race, gender and culture.” The show is dedicated to Dr. Sam Nwaobasi, the Nigerian accent coach, who died suddenly on Oct. 2. Performances will be at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 2, 3, 9 and 10 with a matinee at 2 p.m. on Nov. 11. Tickets are $18 for regular tickets, $16 for older adults and students, and $12 each for groups of six or more. Call the box office at 314-921-5678 or go to www.HawthornePlayers.com. A Raisin in the Sun is presented through special arrangement with Samuel French, Inc.

www.delmargardens.com

Around Town

October 24, 2018 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Comment period deadline for Florissant’s proposed Fiscal Year 2019 Community Development Block Grant Annual Action Plan A 30-day comment period regarding Florissant’s Fiscal Year 2019 Annual Action Plan for the Florissant Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program will end at 5 p.m. on Nov. 7. The plan is available for review on the city’s website or at the Florissant Government Building at 1055 rue St. Francois. The public is invited to submit written comments to comara@

florissantmo.com, or send to: CDBG Program Florissant Government Building 1055 rue St. Francois Florissant, Missouri 63031 For additional information, contact Carol O’Mara, Director Housing and Community Development at (314) 839-7680.

Jennings School District receives the CUBE Annual Award for Urban School Board Excellence

www.midwestbankcentre.com

Photo courtesy Jennings School District (From left in the front) Frank C. Pugh (National School Boards Association’s Board of Directors President) stands with Rose Mary Johnson (Jennings School District School Board Director), Reginald Hall (Jennings School District School Board Treasurer), Micah Ali (Chair and National School Boards Association’s Director), Yolonda Fountain-Henderson (Jennings School District School Board President), Miranda Jones (Jennings School District School Board Director), Thomas Gentzel (Executive Director & CEO National School Boards Association), (From left in the back) Dr. Art McCoy (Jennings School District Superintendent of Schools), Harold Austin (Jennings School District School Board Vice President), and Terry Wilson (Jennings School District School Board Secretary).

www.florissantfinearts.com www.florissantmo.com

The Jennings School District was selected as one of three national recipients of the National School Board Association’s (NSBA) 2018 CUBE Annual Award for Urban School Board Excellence by the NSBA’s Council of Urban Boards of Education (CUBE). Because of their hard work and commitment to students, they were invited to attend the NSBA CUBE Awards Dinner, which took place Sept. 28 at the Renaissance Las Vegas Hotel in Las Vegas. Jennings is the first school district in the state of Missouri to receive this award in the 14 year history of this NSBA award. Schools are chosen based on demonstration of excellence in four key areas; the school board performance, academic improvement, educational equity and community engagement. NSBA’s Council of Urban Boards of Education Annual Award for Urban School Board Excellence aims to keep the focus on urban student achievement as an inspiration for other districts to model. The Jennings School District is doing just that with two health-based clinics for ele-

mentary and high school students, 100 percent graduation rate for three consecutive years, Gore Community Education Center a place for programs and services that support learning and encouraging students, families and community members to become active and involved in Jennings, a home for students in need to live, a CVS mockup pharmacy store that allow students of various ability levels to gain customer service experience and sales certifications, as well as the opportunity for internships with their local CVS Pharmacy. Also STEAM and college prep courses and summer internships with over 20 fortune 500 companies. Jennings will be featured in the American School Board Journal October 2018 Issue for this award. Jennings was featured in national, state, and local outlets, featured in a special edition of CUBE’s advocacy magazine the Urban Advocate, and in other NSBA publications and received a $2,500 monetary-prize to be used to assist with achieving more goals in the Jennings School District.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • October 24, 2018

Around Town

Live From WVL Radio Theatre, ‘The Headless Hessian of Sleepy Hollow and Other American Horror Stories’ The intrepid actors of WVI Radio Theatre are back, this time with a series of classic American horror stories, including one by Edgar Allen Poe, a creative retelling of the Lizzie Borden axe murders and of course a re-imagining of Washington Irving’s The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. Four actors, live sounds effects and original music transport you back to 1946 when the imagination created horrors far more vivid than any that might actually be lurking in your living room….or your radio station. If you are looking to celebrate Halloween early, “The Headless Hessian of Sleepy Hollow and Other American Horror Stories” is a powerhouse of entertainment. Playing Oct. 26, 7:30 pm at the Gary Gaydos Auditorium in the Florissant Civic Center, conveniently located off Highway 1-270 and 1-170, with plenty of free, well-lighted parking. Tickets and information may be obtained by calling the box office at 314-921-5678 or go

online at www.florisantfinearts.com. Season tickets can be purchased with a savings compared to single ticket prices. You will enjoy preferred seating and flexible exchange privileges. No seats are more than 23 rows from the stage. For 43 years the FFAC has fostered and promoted cultural and educational activities by sponsoring performances of music, dance, theatre and art gallery exhibits. The FFAC has hosted professional touring productions

Cinema St. Louis announces lineup for 27th Annual Whitaker St. Louis International Film Festival The 27th Annual Whitaker St. Louis International Film Festival (SLIFF) — held Nov. 1-11 — provides St. Louis filmgoers with the opportunity to view the finest in world cinema: international films, documentaries, American indies and shorts that can only be seen on the big screen at the festival. SLIFF will screen 413 films: 88 narrative features, 77 documentary features, and 248 shorts. The fest also will feature 14 special-event programs, including our closing-night awards presentation. This year’s festival has 63 countries represented. SLIFF will present our usual array of fest buzz films and Oscar contenders, including “3 Faces,” “Ash Is Purest White,” “Ben Is Back,” “Boy Erased,” “Capernaum,” “The Captain,” “The Chaperone,” “Cold War,” “Destroyer,” “Diane,” “Dogman,” “Everybody Knows,” “The Front Runner,” “Green Book,” “If Beale Street Could Talk,” “The Image Book,” “Little Woods,” “Long Day’s Journey Into Night,” “Mapplethorpe,” “Non-Fiction,” “Shoplifters,” “Support the Girls,” “Transit,” “Vox Lux,” “Widows,” “Wildlife,” and “Zama.” The festival will honor seven significant film figures with our annual awards: • Joe Edwards and John Goodman with Life-

time Achievement Awards • Jason Reitman with a Contemporary Cinema Award • Jim Finn, Jane Gillooly, and Karyn Kusama with Charles Guggenheim Cinema St. Louis Awards • Melanie Mayron with a Women in Film Award. The festival will kick off on Nov. 1, with the local premiere of “Destroyer,” directed by former St. Louisan Karyn Kusama, who will attend the screening. A 6:30 p.m. reception precedes the film and features complimentary Urban Chestnut beers, Broadside Winery wines, and cocktails. As part of the fest’s ongoing response to the Ferguson uprising, SLIFF again will feature a major stream of programming entitled “Race in America: The Black Experience” and offer a third edition of “Mean Streets: Viewing the Divided City Through the Lens of Film and Television,” which addresses the persistent issue of segregation. The fest schedule, ticket and venue information, and a complete list of films (with descriptions) are available at the Cinema St. Louis Web site (cinemastlouis.org). For more information, the public should visit cinemastlouis.org or call 314-289-4150.

in North County for more than four decades. Seasons of experience guarantee that Applause/Applause 2019 will earn your enthusiastic applause as well. FFAC presents the Applause/Applause Series with financial support from our members, Missouri Arts Council, a state agency, the Regional Arts Commission, the city of Florissant, and Employees Community Fund of Boeing St. Louis.

Around Town

October 24, 2018 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

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Hazelwood School District wraps up first community forum

Photo courtesy Hazelwood School Panel members included (from left) Superintendent Dr. Nettie Collins-Hart, Board President Mark Behlmann, Board Secretary Margo McNeil and Board Vice President Dr. Brenda Youngblood.

The Hazelwood School District Board of Education held its first Community Forum of the 2018-2019 school year Oct. 4 at Hazelwood East High School. The purpose of the forum was to create a constructive dialogue between community members, the board of education and the superintendent. Dozens of parents, community members and district staff were in attendance and submitted questions which were answered by a panel consisting of three board members and Superintendent Dr. Nettie Collins-Hart. Two main topics of discussion included the district’s plans to open a thematic school geared

toward talented and gifted students in 2019 and updates on redistricting presented at the district’s most recent Board of Education meeting. “What we saw tonight was a great example of a community coming together to support our students and our schools,” Board President Mark Behlmann said. “I invite the community to engage the district and find out how you can get involved. We always welcome parents and community members to join a district committee; there are several committees that need your participation.” The next Community Forum will take place Feb. 21, 2019 at Hazelwood West High School.

The Walk Through History program unveils its 36th plaque in honor of the late Robert G. Lowery, Sr.

www.orthocaresystems.com

Photo courtesy city of Florissant Pictured is Florissant Mayor Thomas Schneider as he presents the mock plaque to Carole Lowery. Also in the picture is Chief Lowery, the Lowery family, friends, city council members and members from Old Town Partners.

www.zissertire.com

On Sept. 26, a ceremony was held where Florissant Mayor Thomas Schneider dedicated the 36h Walk Through History plaque in honor of the late Florissant Mayor Robert G. Lowery, Sr. Lowery began his 50 year career of service to Florissant as a police officer and advanced in rank to chief in 1979 excelling in that position. He was elected mayor in 2001 after the death of Mayor James J. Eagan and retired in 2011. Always placing public safety first, his administration was successful in delivering all municipal services and in completing major renovations to the Florissant recreation centers and facilities. Under

Lowery business development thrived and several surrounding subdivisions were annexed increasing the size and prestige of Florissant. Lowery touched the lives of countless people in and out of Florissant both as chief and as mayor, but his devotion to all things Florissant started in 1961 when he became a Florissant patrolman in a small but growing department. He saw that department grow to its present size while making the entire city part of his extended family. Following the ceremony was the final Wednesday Night Out event which was hosted by Hendel’s Café.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • October 24, 2018

Business

Thousands of items collected in annual Vantage School Supply Drive the burden of starting a new school year by providing necessary supplies.” Employees and members of Vantage came together to pitch in 2,724 items and more than $1,300 in monetary donations. This year’s supply drive benefited KidSmart, which seeks to assist children in the area who cannot afford basic school supplies, and the Foster & Adoptive Care Coalition, which helps area children impacted by

New State Farm Agency opens in Florissant Agent Alex Vogt has opened a new State Farm Agency in Florissant. “Florissant is where I call home. I was born, raised and still live in this community,” Vogt said. “This is truly a humbling experience that I now get the opportunity to serve my community through the values that my parents have instilled in me. I am excited for this journey and can’t wait to continue building strong relationships throughout this great town.” Vogt’s State Farm Agency office is located at 301 Rue St. Francois Street in Florissant. He can be reached at 314-838-3494.

foster care. “Vantage is proud to continue supporting KidSmart and Foster & Adoptive Care Coalition,” Sandifer said. “They provide necessary supplies to children when they need them the most. We’re incredibly grateful for the opportunity to help their initiatives.”

Submitted photo

Vantage Credit Union announced they received over 2,500 school supplies for its annual School Supply Drive. The event provides items to St. Louis area students and teachers, so they have the tools they need to prepare and focus on learning. “For a child in need, the beginning of the school year can bring an extra set of worries,” said Jenny Sandifer, Vantage Marketing Specialist, and School Supply Drive Coordinator. “We’re happy to help ease

www.byerlyrv.com

Christian Hospital Sleep Disorders Center at Northwest HealthCare reaccredited The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) has reaccredited the Sleep Disorders Center at Northwest HealthCare, 1225 Graham Rd. in Florissant, making it the longest AASM accredited sleep center in the north St. Louis County area. It has maintained its AASM accreditation since 2003, also making it the oldest within the BJC HealthCare system. AASM-accredited centers are recognized as providers of the highest quality of care and continually uphold the most stringent standards. In addition to in lab testing, the Sleep Lab at Northwest HealthCare has branched out

into home studies, and is always looking for new ways to better serve the community and improve their sleep health. Since it opened in 1987, the staff at the Christian Hospital Sleep Disorders Center has helped thousands of people throughout the area achieve restful sleep. The center’s physicians are Diplomates of the American Board of Sleep Medicine and its sleep technicians are registered or registry eligible. For more information or to schedule an appointment at the Sleep Disorders Center at Northwest HealthCare, call 314-953-6774.

www.TheSarahCommunity.com

School

October 24, 2018 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Two Hazelwood educators receive excellence in education awards

McCluer Army JROTC promotes four cadets to leadership roles

The St. Louis American Foundation recognized two Hazelwood School District educators, Dr. Chauncey Granger and Dr. Tamara Wells, during the 2018 Salute to Excellence in Education Scholarship and Awards Gala on Sept. 29. Granger was recently promoted to principal at Hazelwood East High School. Prior to this, he served as principal of Hazelwood Southeast Middle School. He will be recognized for his innovative work with student achievement and commitment to increasing parent and community involvement. Wells was recently promoted to a curriculum coach after serving as an instructional specialist at Twillman Elementary school. She will be recognized for empowering students to take an active role in their own learning. “We value a diverse staff that is caring, culturally component, well trained, and highly effective in their roles,” said Dr. Nettie Collins-Hart, superintendent of schools. “This is a tremendous honor. Congratulations to Dr. Granger and Dr. Wells on the prestigious award recognition.”

Parents, family members, school administrators and fellow cadets watched with pride as four McCluer Army JROTC Cadets were promoted to leadership positions during the squad’s Promotion and Assumption of Command Ceremony. The 2018-19 Comet Cadet Batallion Chain of Command are Arkayla Page who was proPhoto courtesy Ferguson-Florissant School District moted to Cadet Lieutenant Col- The cadets are (from left): Arkayla Page, Kyra Sanders, Tiara Worshim and Erin Stroud. onel and assumes duties as the Comet Cadet Battalion Commander (Top Ca- and Cadet Erin Stroud, who was promoted to det); Cadet Kyra Sanders who was promoted to Cadet Battalion Sergeant Major. Cadet Command Sergeant Major and assumes Conducting the ceremony was Lieutenant Colduties as the Comet Cadet Battalion Command onel (R) Darrell Gray, McCluer’s senior army Sergeant Major (Senior Enlisted Advisor for the instructor. Parents and other family members Corps of Cadets); Cadet Tiara Worshim who was of the cadets assisted in the ceremony by changpromoted to Cadet Major and assumes duties ing their uniforms’ rank insignias and shoulder as the Comet Cadet Battalion Executive Officer; marks.

Hazelwood helps lead the way at MSBA Annual Conference www.treesbywoody.net

Photo Courtesy Hazelwood School District The Hazelwood East High School Girls’ Choir joined by HSD Superintendent Dr. Nettie Collins-Hart and district leadership at the MSBA Annual Conference Sept. 28

www.RMSjourney.com

The Hazelwood School District was well-represented at the Missouri School Board Association Annual Conference Sept. 27-30 in Osage Beach. The nationally-recognized Hazelwood East Girls’ Choir, under the direction of Robert Swingler, helped kick off the second day of the conference with a performance on Sept. 28. District leaders including Superintendent Dr. Nettie Collins-Hart, Deputy Superintendent Dr. Natasha Baker, Assistant Superintendent Dr. Bruce Green, and the HSD Board of Education were in attendance for the weekend full of professional workshops and growth opportunities. Dr. Collins-Hart, Board President Mark Behlmann, Board Treasurer Cheryl Latham, and Board Director Diane Livingston led a presentation at the conference titled “The Board’s Role in Strategic Goal Setting” on Sept 29. Educational leaders from across Missouri

learned from HSD about its strategies in establishing a clear purpose and direction for a school district. “This conference and the professional growth it fostered were wonderful for our district,” Dr. Collins-Hart said. “Our board of education had a chance to educate other school boards and I hope Hazelwood leadership and our schools can continue to serve as a model for other districts throughout the state.” Jeffery Cohn, an educational consultant with Brave Dialogue, presented alongside HSD administration; Cohn played a pivotal role in guiding Hazelwood School District in the development of its Hazelwood NOW Strategic Plan. Keynote speakers at the conference included former U.S. Senator from New Jersey Bill Bradley and award-winning children’s author Carmen Agra Deedy.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • October 24, 2018

Yeggs

John Hanna

Feature

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 The creeps are out and about this time of year. Yes, it’s the midterm elections, but Halloween also brings them around. Do you actually know how Halloween came to be? Trick-or-treating got its start in Washington D.C. Long ago, tax collectors would go door to door with great big pillowcases and ask for tax money with a familiar little ditty, “Trick or treat; smell our feet; give us your money or we’ll take your house and throw you in the stocks.” (The government was not very good at rhyming back then.) When out trick-or-treating today, kids know there’s always that one house where the occupants give you a piece of fruit or worse, a bag of gluten-free, salt-less, dry organic pretzels. (They learned this medieval torture tactic from the airline industry.) That house will pay by getting their windows soaped afterwards. However, when the D.C. ghouls were out and about and a poor, down-onits-luck house owner tossed in an IOU or one of their small children (usually the unruly one with freckles), the government would come back later and confiscate their tractor and cows and return the freckled kid. Soon the farming communities came up with a plan. They began carving up pumpkins with terrible frightening faces and set them around the porch lit with candles. The poor quivering tax collectors, being lily-livered and cowardly as they were, took one look and ran away. This worked for a few weeks until the poor community ended up eating the pumpkins for dinner as they had no other food. Then like flies

A brief history of Halloween

to doodies, the collectors returned. But the wise villagers came up with a new plan. They dressed themselves up like zombies, ogres, witches and bloodsucking vampires. They were convinced this would terrify the collectors and drive

them away permanently. The people all gathered in the center of town and looked especially horrifying in their creepy garb. As expected, the ghouls approached with open pillow cases in hand. On the prescribed moment, the hideous townsfolk jumped out and started howling and moaning and screeching. The tax collectors jaws dropped and eyes bulged. Then one spoke up indignantly, “Hey, no one told us Congress was meeting here today!” Alas, the planned failed. But to this very day around this time, the streets are filled with scary menacing monsters in recognition of that long ago session of Congress. 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.

ACROSS 1. Accumulate 6. To and ____ 9. Audition tape 13. October, e.g. 14. Adam's body part 15. Mountain climber's spike 16. Weasel's aquatic cousin 17. Gentry's "___ to Billie Joe" (1967) 18. Agitate 19. *Stanley Kubrick's "The ____" 21. *Ghost or ghoul 23. "____ ____ Clear Day You Can See Forever" 24. Clothing joint 25. *Nighttime radar flyer 28. European sea eagle 30. Not wholesale 35. In the sack 37. Popular dieter's foe 39. Laundromat setting 40. Carrying bag 41. Enjoy, as in food 43. Parks on a bus 44. Made a mistake 46. In 1492, it sailed the ocean blue 47. Outback birds 48. Stadiums 50. ____pit 52. Hitherto

53. Genuflecting joint 55. Feather glue 57. *She played Laurie Strode 60. *Dead one 64. Bipolar disorder phase 65. Marienbad, e.g. 67. Blind alternative 68. Give the boot 69. Breathing matter 70. Famous Bolshevik 71. London art museum 72. "Owner of a Lonely Heart" band 73. Not slouching DOWN 1. Andy's radio partner 2. Sweater eater 3. Dead against 4. Kind of pad 5. Sacred spot 6. *"Eye of newt, and toe of ____..." 7. Relieve from 8. Falstaffian in body 9. Christian of haute-couture 10. Evening purse 11. Lion's share 12. Single 15. Kindergartener's textbook 20. Drug agents 22. "____ for the course"

24. Nonprofit's purpose 25. *"Psycho" motel proprietor 26. Terminate, as in mission 27. "Four" prefix 29. Indian flatbread 31. Homemade swing seat 32. Societal breakdown of moral standards 33. October edition of "Vogue," e.g. 34. Minimum 36. Ownership document 38. *____-chilling 42. Haile Selassie's disciple 45. Stalin's order, e.g. 49. "Wheel of Fortune" request 51. Equestrian's seat 54. Op-ed piece 56. More raw 57. Vena ____ 58. g or cm 59. *"The Vampire Chronicles" author 60. *Christine and such 61. Weather ____ 62. Homer's "Iliad" 63. Monthly due 64. Came together 66. Crusty dessert SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 13

Sports

October 24, 2018 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Sports you see with Gary B...

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

Former Rams player coaching at Lutheran St. Charles Lutheran High St. Charles (LHS) has quietly put former St. Louis Rams running back Arlen Harris into action as their varsity head coach. His offensive backfield consists of two rugged running backs Anthony Heard and AJ Harris, both who average over 100-yards per game and almost 10 yards per carry. They also have a pretty effective quarterback by the name of Aaron Coffey who has plenty of talented receivers to choose from. In a recent gridiron game, the Lutheran Cougars found themselves behind by eight points against the Jennings Warriors in the fourth quarter. Coffey brought the team down the field, thanks in part to a completion to Harris for a 24-yard gain. Next was Kyle Taylor pulling in a pass and taking it to the house for a 23-yard touchdown. On the next possession, Heard found his opening from the backfield in route to a 26-yard touchdown run to give the Cougars its first lead of the game and the second touchdown in 29 seconds. Heard was not done as he ran in for another score with a short five-yard jaunt and ended the night with 127 yards on 21 carries. The 19 points in the final quarter gave LHS the win 25-14. “Every team that plays us knows that we run the ball effectively, and they always try to stack the box and eliminate those big runs,” Harris said. “We were able to go in at halftime, make some adjustments, switch up some personnel and the kids responded.” The LHS Cougars have compiled a 7-2 record this season and have scored 339 points in those games. LHS hosts Soldan International Studies this Friday in a non-conference game. * Play as I say and did

Guns ‘N Hoses less than a month away Go to www.STLGunsnHoses.com for all the details. * Back the Backstoppers and the First Responders Veteran indoor football league coach Pat Pimmel is back Coach Pat Pimmel will come out of his football retirement to participate in the inaugural season of the National Gridiron League, as head coach of the St. Louis Stampede, playing at the Family Arena. With nearly 30 years of coaching experience, he brings a wide range of technical knowledge and professional maturity to the team. Most recently in 2015, he was brought in mid-season to assume the head coach position for the St. Louis Attack, turning a losing season into a respectable third place finish. In 2009, he was named the head coach for the River City Rage. The Rage, under Pimmel’s leadership, went on to win the conference championship and was the United Bowl runner-up. In 2008, he was an assistant coach under former Green Bay Packer Ken Stills with the Rage reaching the conference championship. Pimmel is a St. Louis native where he attended Hazelwood East High School and resides in St. Charles County. He is very involved in his community and all levels of football. He is married to Stephanie, and they have four children, Josh, Danielle, Jessica and Patrick along with three grandchildren Cadence, Kylee, and Sophia. * Thanks to Stephanie for the great bio Gary Baute, a St. Louis native, may be educated in business but he lives and breathes sports. As a fan or an athlete, Gary is all sports all the time. He hosted a radio sports program on KFNS, emceed the River City Rascals’ inaugural season, and co-hosted SportsRadioSTL.com, among many other activities.

I (Gary Baute) will be broadcasting the

“STL Health and Wellness LIVE” show every Saturday from 9-11 a.m. on www.aperioncare.com

590 The Fan and 590TheFan.com

Gary Baute, a St. Louis native, may be educated in business but he lives and breathes sports. As a fan or an athlete, Gary is all sports all the time. He hosted a radio sports program on KFNS, emceed the River City Rascals’ inaugural season, and cohosted SportsRadioSTL.com, among many other activities.

www.mycnews.com • Community News • October 17, 2018

Recipe:

Feature

Simple, satisfying weeknight solutions

Green Bean, Asparagus and Goat Cheese Salad with Honey Dijon Vinaigrette Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 3 minutes | Total time: 13 minutes | Servings: 4 Ingredients: Honey Dijon Vinaigrette: 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar 1 shallot, minced 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh tarragon 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard 2 teaspoons honey 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

Green Bean, Asparagus and Goat Cheese Salad: 1/2 pound green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces 1/2 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces 6 cups baby arugula 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper 1/4 cup diced sundried tomatoes in oil

Directions: To make Honey Dijon Vinaigrette: Whisk together white wine vinegar, shallot, tarragon, mustard, honey, salt and pepper; whisk in olive oil. To assemble Green Bean, Asparagus and Goat Cheese Salad: In steamer basket, steam green beans and asparagus 3-5 minutes, or until tender-crisp. Rinse under cold water and drain well. Transfer to large bowl; add arugula and goat cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Toss salad with vinaigrette. Garnish with sundried tomatoes and chives. Tip: If desired, omit green beans and double asparagus.

Honey-Balsamic Glazed Salmon Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 20 minutes | Total time: 25 minutes | Servings: 6 Ingredients: 1 salmon filet (about 2 pounds) 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar 2 tablespoons honey 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 1 clove garlic, minced pinch of chili pepper flakes 1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon (optional)

Inspiration Corner:

Heat oven to 400 F. Season salmon with salt and pepper; place on parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Whisk together vinegar, honey, mustard, garlic and chili pepper flakes; brush over salmon. Bake 18-20 minutes, or until fish just starts to flake easily with fork. Sprinkle with chopped tarragon, if desired. Tips: Substitute maple syrup for honey, if

desired. Omit chili flakes and season with freshly ground pepper.

When a light yet filling meal is attainable in less time, you can focus on nutritious choices even on the busiest of evenings. Find more quick, simple recipe ideas at FilippoBerio.com.

– SUDOKU –

The joy of being a good neighbor It was early Friday evening and I was preparing for dinner guests. I threw the pork steaks in the pot and promptly realized I had forgotten to buy barbecue sauce. Panic ensued. I still had to prepare vegetables and clean the house. Yes, I am a procrastinator. No, I will never learn. I texted several neighbors. “Do you have any barbecue sauce I can have? I’ll pay you back.” One responded right away. “Sure. Be right over.” She stepped onto my porch and I could tell something was wrong. We hadn’t talked in a few months and so she caught me up. A serious health issue and minor surgery were wreaking havoc on her body. Especially poignant was her slowed metabolism and the fact that her clothes no longer fit. “It’s not bad enough that I’m getting older, but now, no matter how careful I am with food, I gain weight.” I can relate. I had a hysterectomy in my mid-thirties due to chronic health issues and now if I even look at bread my pants give me a lecture. But weight gain was the least of her problems. An important relationship in her life had broken down through no fault of her own. Someone she loves very dearly has broken off the relationship and left her to simmer in suffering. My neighbor cried and I did too. It is a special kind of pain when we endure the cold rebuke from a friend who refuses to reconcile. Ten months have passed since that day and there is still no resolution. The acute heartache has abated and now an uncomfortable acceptance has taken its place. We talked over the fence and lament-

Directions:

ed the grief that comes when someone refuses to forgive us. It is a helpless feeling; withering and odious. Yes, we move forward, but we also remain suspended in a state of unwarranted ambivalence. Each of us carries within us the scars of relational wounds. Whether we are the perpetrator or victim, we all ache. We cannot undo what has been done. We can only walk forward and try to learn from the experience. A wise man once said, “The heart knows its own bitterness, and no stranger shares its joy.” I think what this means is that a good neighbor helps carry the burden of heartache and is rewarded with the residual joy friendship brings. I have prayed for my neighbor and her situation because I care for her. I am also hopeful that one day she will experience the relief of reconciliation with her friend. It is true that anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad. Today, if it is at all within your power, forgive someone who has hurt you, hug a brokenhearted neighbor, give freely of your barbecue sauce. No one ever regrets the gift of kindness. For more inspiration, follow me on my blog: www.destinationdiscipline.com. Margaret Wolfinbarger is a wife and mother of three peculiar children. She lives in St. Charles and likes to shine light into dark places.

Fill in the blank squares in the grid, making sure that every row, column and 3-by-3 box includes all the digits 1 through 9.

SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 13

What’s Happening

October 24, 2018 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Send your event to editor@mycnews.com and we'll print it! EVENTS Oct. 24: Karaoke

Karaoke at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information call 314-831-6121.

Oct. 25: Fall family festival

The Hazelwood School District will host its Annual Fall Family Festival from 5 - 7:30 p.m. at Hazelwood Central High School, located at 15875 New Halls Ferry Road in Florissant. The Fall Family Festival is free and open to all HSD families. The festi-

val will include entertainment, arts and crafts, carnival booths, games, a complimentary light meal, and more. Families will also have the opportunity to gather valuable information and resources during the community resource fair.

Oct. 26: Chicken dinner

Chicken dinner at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 4 to 7 p.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information call 314-831-6121.

Oct. 27: Halloween events

Holy Ghost Hallowed Hallway Trick or Treat will take place in the halls of Bellefontaine United Methodist Church, which will be filled with decorations and treats for children ages 12 and under at 6 p.m. Also at that time, the Young Leader’s Ministry will have free food, frosty drinks, fright and fun from 6 to 8 p.m. with Meltdown Presents Apocalypse. This may not be suitable for children under 12. Both events will take place at Bellefontaine United Methodist Church at 10600 Bellefontaine Road in St. Louis.

Oct. 27: Family Boo Bash

Kids, come dressed in costume and trick or treat at the James J. Eagan Center from 12 – 2 p.m. for the Family Boo Bash 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. Local businesses and organizations are invited to participate in the first-ever Family Boo Bash. You will be provided with a space to distribute coupons, flyers and any other marketing material you wish and all you have to do is pass out candy or treats to the community attending this event. Spaces are limited, so secure yours today. Best decorated business space will receive an advertising package from the department. Contact Beth Carr at bcarr@florissantmo. com for more information.

Oct. 27: Trivia night

Down Syndrome Association of Greater St. Louis Trivia Night’s Halloween theme will be a devilishly good time, complete with Halloween themed questions, costume contest, auction, wine pull, games, raffles and very special guest emcee Randy Karraker. VIP, General and sponsorships are still available. Call the DSAGSL office for details at 314-961-2504 or visit http://dsagsl.org/events/trivia/.

Oct. 27: Rummage sale

Calvary United Church of Christ, at 2501 Hartland Avenue, is inviting the community to its Fall Rummage Sale. This is one week earlier than normal. Doors open at 8 a.m. For more information call 314-429-7464 Monday-Thursday from 9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Oct. 31: 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.

Oct. 31: Halloween Swim and Skate

New this Halloween the ice rink and indoor pool at James J Eagan Center in Florissant will remain open so you and your family can enjoy our amenities after you trick or treat from 7 – 9 p.m. The building will be decorated for Halloween and the recreation staff will have plenty of candy to pass out so make sure to visit them for a few treats as well. Participate by paying the regular daily admission for the ice rink and the pool. It will also be resident family night for both locations. A resident family with valid resident cards living in the same household can get into either the pool or ice rink for only $4 total.

Nov. 4: 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 quilts, cash prizes, raffle, pull tabs and refreshments available.

Nov. 3: Road rally fundraiser

Soroptimist International of Greater St. Louis, a volunteer organization for business and professional women, is pleased to announce its first Road Rally fundraiser and is looking for participants and sponsors. Participants in the Road Rally will leave from the Knights of Columbus grounds beginning at 10 a.m. and embark on a journey through Florissant and Hazelwood. The Road Rally will end at an undisclosed location where the fun will continue with lunch, live music provided by Dennis Schilligo and activities for the young and young at heart. The entry fee is $50 per car up to four adults and $10 for each additional adult (kids under 12 free). Each team must have a least two people, a driver and a navigator. This is a family friendly event, no pets or alcohol allowed. Prizes will be awarded to the top three teams. This is not a race. Turn by turn instructions are clear and concise with fun riddles and witty route specific questions between turns. The emphasis is on safety, accuracy, observation and fun. Sponsors are also needed to make this a successful event. Sponsorship levels are VW Bug $100, Jeep $250, Escalade $500 and Tesla $1,000. Complete rules, registration and additional information including sponsorship benefits are available on Soroptimist’s website, Facebook and LinkedIn pages.

Nov. 10: Gospel concert

At 8 p.m. at Touhill Performing Arts Center, the Soweto Gospel Choir will be performing to bring an evening of award-winning and inspirational music, singing and dancing. For ticket prices, contact Touhill ticket office at 314-516-4949 or visit touhill.org.

Nov. 10: Vendor and craft sale

A vendor and crafts sale, food and bake sale, sponsored by the Presbyterian Women of John Knox Church at 13200 New Halls Ferry in Florissant, will be held from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Nov. 10: Craft fair

Blessed Teresa of Calcutta Church, at 150 N. Elizabeth Ave. in Ferguson, is inviting you to their First Annual Craft Fair. Doors open from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Crafters are needed. Please contact Laura Steinmann at Laurasteinmann@yahoo.com or cell 314488-0527.

Nov. 10: Meat shoots

Florissant Eagles, Aerie #3638 Meat Shoots will start on Sept. 8 and run through Nov. 10 at 15245 New Halls Ferry Rd. Shoots start at noon and rounds go fast so get there early. There is a length limit and 670 choke maximum. $3 per shot. $5 big money round. Beer specials. All are welcome.

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.

Monthly: Free legal services

Every month CORP Legal Services provides: legal document preparations such as wills, deeds and power of attorneys at no cost to St. Louis County seniors 60 years and older. There is an income limit. Contact the coordinator at 314-615-0931 for more information.

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 314-615-4516.

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.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • October 24, 2018 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.

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: 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: 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 314-921-2132.

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, at the Bellefontaine Neighbors Community Center at 9669 Bellefontaine Rd. Those interested in membership are invited to attend.

Every Tuesday: Bingo Evening at

Florissant Elks Lodge #2316

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 314.921.2316.

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, 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

3-4 p.m., Center for Senior Renewal, Detrick Building 1st floor, 11133 Dunn Rd. For more information, contact Jamie Stevens at 314.653.5331.

Thursdays: Bingo

Community Bingo at the Bridge At Florissant, at 1101 Garden Plaza Drive (intersection of Parker and Arlington) takes place on the fourth Thursday of each month from 2:30 - 3:30 p.m. There will be snacks and prizes. For more information call 314-831-0988.

Thursdays: Quilting guild

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. Thursdays: 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 first Thursday of the month, starting at 7 p.m. For more information contact Walter Kaiser at 314-921-2132.

Thursdays:

Blood

pressure

checks

Free blood pressure checks monthly at Life Care Center of Florissant at 1201 Garden Plaza Dr. (off Parker Rd.) in Florissant every third Thursday of the month. Call 831-3752 for more information.

Thursdays: meeting

Women’s

chorus

Every Thursday City Voices Chorus, a women’s chorus singing four-part a cappella harmony, meets at Church of the Good Shepherd at 1166 S. Mason Rd. in St. Louis. Members come from the entire bi-state region. Call Marcia at 636-274-0723 for more information or visit www.cityvoiceschorus.org.

Every Friday: Our Lady of Fatima #4429 Knights of Columbus Bingo 6:45 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.

What’s Happening

not alone. Come help your heart heal with others. For more information call 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.

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.

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 SUDOKU answers from page 11

www.TheVillaAtRiverwood.com

CROSSWORD answers from page 9

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 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: Free walk-in clinic

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 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: 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

On the fourth Saturday of each month, grief support meeting “A Way With Words Ministry” meets at 12:30 p.m. at Community Christ Fellowship, rear, at 121 Williams Blvd. in Hazelwood, 1/4 mile south of Hwy 270 off Florissant Rd. There are a variety of topics monthly. You are

www.RMSjourney.com

October 24, 2018 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

HELP WANTED

NOVENA PRAYER TO ST. JUDE May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world, now and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus, Pray for us. St. Jude, Worker of Miracles, Pray for us. St. Jude, Helper of the Hopeless, Pray for us. Say this prayer 9 times a day for 9 days, then publish. Your prayers will be answered. It has never been known to fail.

Thank you St. Jude C.W.

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www.mycnews.com • Community News • October 24, 2018

CLASSIFIEDS

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Details overlooked in ‘First Man’

M O V I E

In 2014, Damien Chazelle wrote and directed “Whiplash,” the compelling story of an eager music student who runs afoul of a demanding and abusive instructor. With Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling in the lead roles, Chazelle’s “La La Land” was a tip of the director’s cap to those classic “boy meets girl” musicals. That film also was part of an accidental Oscar controversy where it was incorrectly declared the Best Picture winner. With Damien Chazelle and Josh Singer as director and writer of “First Man,” I had high hopes for this biopic of Neil Armstrong, the first man to walk on the moon. Though they created a beautifully shot motion picture, the story itself, like the title character, lacked passion and fire. To paraphrase a NASA employee in Ron Howard’s “Apollo 13,” Chazelle and Josh Singer made the moon race seem as exciting as a trip to Cleveland. Gosling did an excellent job playing Neil Armstrong, who lost his two-year-old daughter to a brain tumor years before he became an astronaut. As portrayed by Gosling, the astronaut was haunted by her passing throughout his career, especially when he set foot on the moon. When dealing with his wife and sons, Armstrong is portrayed as subdued and distant, focusing more on work than family. Gosling’s performance seems accurate, but other details about the space race are glossed over. Ed White, played by Jason Clarke in the

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By Steve Bryan

Slayton eventually flew in space on the 1975 Apollo-Soyuz mission, but other astronauts were out of the corps long before Armstrong walked. Mercury veteran Wally Schirra along with Donn F. Eisele and Walter Cunningham went into space in Apollo 7 about 20 months after the Apollo 1 fire. The trio successfully tested the redesigned Apollo capsule, but they argued with the ground crew over procedures. Schirra retired, but Eisele and Cunningham were not allowed to fly in space again. “First Man” is, of course, Neil Armstrong’s story, but ignoring important details took away from the quality of the film. Armstrong was the first to set foot on the moon, but other people took the steps to help him get there. They deserved more representation here. “First Man,” rated PG-13, currently is playing in theaters. “First Man” photo courtesy Universal Pictures

film, was considered the successor to John Glenn in the astronaut corps. During a Gemini mission in 1965, White was the first American to walk in space, but he almost didn’t make it back into the capsule. White remains simply a background player in “First Man,” even after his death in Apollo 1 is shown on screen. Kyle Chandler is solid here as Deke Slayton, but he also is relegated to the background in “First Man.” Chief of the Astronaut’s Office and former Mercury astronaut, Slayton was grounded because an irregular heartbeat. He oversaw training and crew selections while trying to get back in the astronaut rotation himself. During a “plugs out” test of Apollo 1, Slayton heard astronaut Roger Chaffee say there was a fire in the cockpit. Slayton’s good friend Gus Grissom perished on the launchpad along with Chaffee and Ed White.

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.