CN: Dec. 5. 2012

December 5, 2012 Vol. 91 No. 49

Trips, resources, and a hot meal. Find it all at the Florissant Senior Office.

Senior Fun in Florissant!

By Shelly A. Schneider

IN this Issue

Peggy Hogan has worked as the senior citizen coordinator for the city of Florissant for the past five years, and she has one mission: to be a resource for seniors in the community.

“We have a lot of information and phone numbers to help seniors, even if I don’t know where to send them,” Hogan said. “I can get an answer to just about anything. I may not know it while I have them on the phone, but I take their information and get back to them as soon as I can.”

Florissant offers free bus transportation for any senior resident (the senior resident must have a resident card).

“The bus service will take you anywhere in the city of Florissant,” Hogan said. “Hair appointments, grocery shopping, etc. They pick you up at your home.”

The Senior Dining Center is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. A hot meal is available at noon each day for just $5. Many seniors come early or stay late…or both.

“It’s a great way to meet other seniors, and some come as a group,” she said.

“We have computers at the dining center, and some play cards, or just hang out and socialize.”

Low-income seniors may also take advantage of the office’s food bank, offered through the state of Missouri.

The Florissant Senior Office also offers free tax preparation service by AARP tax volunteers. Hogan said the volunteers help with federal or state forms. Seniors must have an income of $50,000 or less.

“It’s a very popular service,” Hogan said. “Call our office for a reservation beginning January 22, 2013. We have the largest site in North County, and you do not have to be a resident of Florissant to take advantage of that.”

Hogan likes the residents to have fun, too.

“I offer social activities,” she said. “I Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4 Business. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Learn & Play/Movie . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Photo by Peggy Hogan

think that when seniors have things to do in their community, it makes them feel more a part of their community. We want them to get out and have things to do. I have them tell me periodically that their children live in different communities, and want them to move closer.

They don’t want to leave their friends and the activities.”

In 2012, the Florissant Senior Office sponsored eight dances. The dances are just $6 and include light snacks and live bands. Beer, wine and soda are available for a small fee.

“They have a great time for a low cost,” Hogan said.

Day trips are fun, too. Hogan said there will be two Christmas trips this year.

“We try to offer a variety of trips.

Some that are very affordable, like a recent jaunt to Kimmswick for just $5, and others are trips to the Fox Theater. One of our trips this year is to the Cathedral Basilica followed by a candlelight dinner at the Florissant Senior Dining Center on Sunday, Dec. 16. We’re also headed to the Alton Symphony at the Hathaway Cultural Center followed by School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Christmas Traditions . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9 Sprots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

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dinner at Castelli’s Moonlight Inn in p.m.

“We usually have about 200 people Godfrey, Ill. on Saturday, Dec. 15.” attend the dances,” she said. “These are Mark your calendars now for the big dance on February 9. Hogan said the Big Band dances, and we have a great Fanfare Band will perform from 7–10

See SENIOR FUN page 3

Movie Talk

See Movie page 6

“Life of Pi” - Photo courtesy of 20th Century Fox

Joe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Shelly Schneider . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Recipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

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What’s Happening . . . . . . . . . 12-13 Pet Apdoption . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-15

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2

Around Town

December 5, 2012 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

Here We Come A-Caroling The St. Louis Christmas Carols Association began in 1911, when William H. Danforth and a group of friends decided to bring joy and good will to their neighbors by caroling outside their homes. With no plans to collect, they found listeners offered them money. They donated these funds to the Children’s Aid Society to help needy youngsters, and so began a tradition that has endured for a century. Over the past 100 years, nearly $3 million in caroling donations have been given to a variety of area agencies; currently 45 metro St. Louis area agencies serving children receive funds from the St. Louis Christmas Carols Association.

Today, this tradition is continued by hundreds

of volunteer caroling groups in neighborhoods throughout the area.

The Christmas Carols Association would like to invite you, your family, friends, organization, church group, or scout troop to carol in your neighborhood. This is a wonderful way to spread the joy and good will of the season and to help those in need at the same time. Caroling supplies are available at the Greater North County Chamber of Commerce Office, 420 Washington St. from 9 to 4 p.m.

For more information, call the Christmas Carols Association 314.863.1225 or Mary Kay Gladbach, 314.409.9478.

Bring Kids to Meet Santa and Shopfor Bargains at Holiday Craft Bazaar Hazelwood offers convenient way to celebrate holidays

Opinions from Hazelwood Residents Needed for Musick Park Master Plan Meeting All residents of Hazelwood, especially those living in Ward 6, who would like to see improvements made to Hazelwood are invited to attend the next Musick Park Master Plan meeting on Thursday, December 13. This event will be held at Civic Center East, 8969 Dunn Road, starting at 7:30 p.m.

“We need residents’ input on what they want added, changed or enhanced at Musick Park to make it a more enjoyable place to go with family and friends,” Doug Littlefield, Hazelwood Parks and Recreation Division superintendent, said.

“Hazelwood recently acquired a planning grant through the Municipal Park Grant Commission for a Musick Park master plan. Architects will be there to guide them through a process of collecting ideas that will be incorporated into a preliminary master plan. Their opinions are essential to

making this process a success.”

In 2007, Hazelwood revitalized Musick Park by going through a similar master plan process. Because of the creative ideas received from the public, new amenities such as a lighted sprayground, a fully ramped play structure, a new pavilion, a fitness cluster, and a climbing rock were added.

Hazelwood residents now have an opportunity to make this park better with another master plan project.

Residents can make a difference by giving their feedback about Musick Park. They are encouraged to submit their ideas to Littlefield by December 13. They can either email their comments to him at dslittlefield@hazelwoodmo.org or send a letter to this address: Hazelwood Parks and Recreation Office, Attn: Doug Littlefield, Superintendent, 1186 Teson Road, Hazelwood, MO 63042. Let your voice be heard!

Finding it hard to do holiday shopping and taking the kids to see Santa Claus at the same time? If so, the Hazelwood Parks and Recreation Division is providing a way for people to do both by hosting its Holiday Craft Bazaar and Visit with Santa on Saturday, December 8, at the Hazelwood Community Center, 1186 Teson Road in White Birch Park. Admission is free and open to the public.

Dozens of the area’s most talented crafters will be showcasing their hand-made creations at the Holiday Craft Bazaar from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Everything ranging from crocheted items to decorated towels, stuffed animals to hand-carved wooden toys, holiday wreaths to tree ornaments, and jewelry pieces to scented candles and light boxes.

Those shopping for bargains or a unique gift should make plans to attend this event. A full-service concession stand will be serving a variety of food and beverage items.

Old St. Nick is scheduled to make his seasonal visit to Hazelwood the same morning between 10:30 a.m. and 12 p.m. Children of all ages are encouraged to stop by and share their Christmas wishes with him. Residents can bring their pets to meet Santa as well. Fees for photos taken with Santa are $2 for residents and $3 for nonresidents. Refreshments will be served.

For more information on one or both events, contact the www.cityofbn.com Hazelwood Parks and Recreation Office at 314.731.0980 or dial TDD 1-711. Also, check out the City of Hazelwood’s website at www.hazelwoodmo.org.

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www.mycnews.com • Community News • December 5, 2012

The City of Florissant Caring and Sharing Food Drive

Around Town

3

SENIOR FUN from cover

Mayor Thomas P. Schneider along with the City of Florissant have again thrown in their full support behind collecting non-perishable food items and are joining The Emergency Assistance Ministry (TEAM)’s food drive. Our Parks Department has been promoting this drive for over 15 years. These items will be collected until December 14. Given the struggling economy that faces many of us and with many people that are unemployed, there is an ever increasing need to support our food pantries.

The City will have three drop off sites: The James J. Eagan Center (Waterford & Parker Road), the John F. Kennedy Center (Howdershell & Charbonier) and the Florissant City Hall (955 rue St. Francois).

Mayor Schneider said, “I ask that you help support this food drive and try and donate as much as you can to help those that need our help during this Holiday Season. I am making this plea to all citizens of Florissant who are gainfully employed or have the means to purchase food for those who cannot.”

In addition to a critical need for food, there is always a need for funds to maintain the basic operations of the food pantry and to purchase food in bulk. To aid in providing financial assistance, Mayor Schneider has designated the following dates as Dress Down Days for the employees of Florissant, December 7 and December 14. All monies that are collected will go directly to TEAM. If you have donations of food or funds and cannot get to one of the drop off sites, please contact the Mayor’s office at 314.839.7601 and a volunteer will pick them up and deliver them to TEAM. Please join this effort to help the needy and meet our obligation to aid our fellow citizens.

1st Annual North County Christian School Fundraising Event - Feed the Need!

Pictured are Mayor Thomas P. Schneider and students from North County Christian School participating in the 1st Annual Feed the Need Fundraising Event that was held at the school which is located at 845 Dunn Road. The 335 students will personally make a difference by participating in a one day event where they pack, seal and box over 10,000 meals that were shipped and distributed to hungry children in Jamaica.

School Superintendent Dr. Greg Clark the event coordinator wanted the students to learn about the problem of world hunger-then participate in the solution.

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time. A lot of people dress up for them and it’s a great way for seniors to get out and enjoy other seniors in the community.”

Tickets are available at the Senior Office at City Hall. Tickets are $6 in advance, and $8 at the door. The dances are open to residents and nonresidents.

Hogan thanked the 18-mem-

ber Florissant Senior Commission, which helps her carry out many of the year’s events, including five parties a year.

“They help serve food, help out with flu shots, etc.,” she said.

“I couldn’t do it without them.”

For more information about the Florissant Senior Office, please call 314.839.7605.

North County Community Children’s Holiday Event The City of Black Jack, in conjunction with Jamestown Mall, will hold its annual Children’s Holiday event at Jamestown Mall on Saturday, December 15 at Jamestown Mall at 1 p.m. in center court.

There will visits and pictures with Santa along with several bicycles and scooters to be given away at the event. The bicycles were donated personally by Mayor Norm McCourt and members of the Black Jack City Council. Must be present with children to enter and win Giveaways. The drawings will take place promptly at 2 p.m.

Mayor Norm McCourt said “The City is proud to partner with Jamestown Mall for our City events, as we outgrew the capacity to hold the events at City Hall. All of our City events grew to become so popular, that we had overflow crowds and not everyone was able to attend due to fire code crowding regulations. Teaming up with Jamestown Mall for our events has allowed us to accommodate everyone that attends. As you have seen at every City event, the crowds have been phenomenal. This is what this partnership intended to do, give the residents of the community, City events that we can all be proud of.”

For more information on the event, please call Black Jack City Hall at 314.355.0400.

4

Around Town

December 5, 2012 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

Wii Bowling Championship at Garden Villas North On November 20, Garden Villas North hosted their Annual Wii Bowling Championship! Our residents teamed up against the Black Jack Fire Department and St. Louis County Police Department in an exciting game of Wii Bowling. The St. Louis County Police

Black Jack Police Department with Garden Villas North Director Melissa Russell

Department came in first, followed by Garden Villas North residents and last place going to the Black Jack Fire Department. Highest scoring resident was Grace Orr and highest score overall was Officer Chris Pignataro! Officer Chris Pignataro heads up Garden Villas

St. Louis County Police Department with Garden Villas North Director Melissa Russell

North’s Senior Police Academy, which is open to the public. Please call Garden Villas North at 314.355.6100 for additional information on our Retirement Community, Wii Bowling or the Senior Police Academy.

Garden Villas North residents enjoying the event

City of Black Jack’s Chris Pignataro, as Officer of the Year The St. Louis County Police Department held its Seventh Annual Officer Appreciation Luncheon at Garden Villas North to honor nine St. Louis County Police Officers as Officers of the Year. Each officer was chosen based on the distinct and special services they have provided to the North County Citizens. Neighborhood Policing Officer Chris Pignataro was bestowed the honor of Officer of the Year for the City of Black Jack Detail. Officer Pignataro has been assigned to the City of Black Jack for 12 years and has developed an unparralled relationship with City Officials, residents, and business owners within the City. City of Black Jack, Mayor

Norm McCourt stated that “We are proud of Officer Pignataro and the wonderful relationship he has developed with the residents of our City. It is an award that is well deserved and I congratulate him on receiving it. “ Several dignitaries were on hand including St. Louis County Executive Charlie Dooley, Senator Tim Green, and many other Local, State, and Federal Dignitaries.

The guest speaker of the event was John Rooney, voice of the St. Louis Cardinals.

For any more information, please contact Randy Gardner at 314.355.0400 ext. 120

Christmastime in Ireland Presented by Tony Kenny Direct from Dublin, the Florissant Fine Arts Council “Applause/Applause” Series is proud to present a return engagement of audience favorite and Ireland’s Entertainer of the Year, Tony Kenny, along with the remarkable cast of Christmastime in Ireland.

Visit the Emerald Isle at the most wonderful time of the year - where there is a celebration of family in every home, a candle in every window, and a song in every heart. Tony Kenny, Ireland’s most celebrated entertainer,

and his all-star cast bring audiences the delights of their home country in a variety show that includes comedy, song, dance, and stories from around the hearth. You will be singing, clapping, and laughing from beginning to end - a perfect way to celebrate the Christmas season.

Tony Kenny brings with him some of Ireland’s finest artists to make up a delightful holiday show. Ireland’s King of Blarney, George Casey’s, with his self-deprecating humor, tempered with his Irish brogue, has won over audiences across the country. Kathy Durkin, from County Cavan, is one of Ireland’s leading female entertainers and threetime Irish Recording Artist of the Year. The Dublin Trinity Band, one of Ireland’s best folk bands, has wowed audiences of all sizes for years from O’Connell Street to the Nawww.jeffowens-insurance.com tional Concert Hall. Also featured are Sarah

Rodgers on violin and guitar, renowned Irish pianist and composer, Andrew Darkin on vocals and keyboard.

David Haves one of the finest musical directors in Ireland on piano, and Ireland’s best accordion player, Peter Brown on button accordion. Added into this mix of Irish artists are the Jury’s Irish Cabaret Dancers. Tapping and spinning their way across the stage, these precision musical athletes will take your breath away! You won’t want to miss the warmth and spark that is Christmastime In Ireland.

To see each of these entertainers individually is a treat, but to see them perform together is magic! Christmastime in Ireland is a show not to be missed, playing on December 8 at 8 p.m. at the Florissant Civic Center Theatre located at Parker Road and Waterford Drive.

Tickets are $27 for adults and $25 for seniors and students. Call the box office 314.921.5678 for tickets and information or go online at www. florissantfinearts.com.

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www.mycnews.com • Community News • December 5, 2012

Hidden Lake Raises $19,200 More than 300 residents and friends of Lutheran Senior Services Hidden Lake senior living community raised $19,200 through the recent annual benevolent care brunch which goes toward funds to support residents who have outlived their ability to pay for the care they need.

This year’s total exceeded the goal by more than $4,000 and was helped along by a $7,500 matching gift from an anonymous generous donor.

Becky Zimmer, Hidden Lake’s stewardship director and coordinator of the annual benevolent brunch, said “the fact that a record number of new friends joined us for a wonderful Hidden Lake experience is, as they say . . . priceless!”

City of Maryland Heights: Public Hearing on Proposed Budget Set for Dec. 6 Citizens will have an opportunity to share their input on the proposed 2013 budget at a public hearing at 6:45 p.m. on Dec. 6.

The hearing will be held in the Council Chambers at the Maryland Heights Government Center, 11911 Dorsett Road. The proposed budget is available for public review at the Government Center, the Maryland Heights Centre and the Thornhill and Bridgeton Trails branches of the St. Louis County Library.

The budget projects total revenues for 2013 to be $38,291,250, an increase of 4.5% from 2012, primarily due to higher intergovernmental revenues of grants for specific infrastructure projects. Otherwise, revenues are projected to be stable, up about 1% overall. Increases in building permit fees, sales taxes and gross receipt taxes on utilities will be off set by expected declines in gaming taxes and investment income.

Expenditures for all funds are projected to be $41,804,678, an increase of $4.8 million (13.1%) as capital improvement projects will total $10.9 million in 2013 compared to $6.8 million in 2012. The proposed budget maintains current service levels and includes a 3% across-the-board salary increase; total employee compensation costs will rise by 3.8%. Capital improvement expenditures will be about $4 million higher in 2013, including $4.9 million in projects that were originally planned for 2012.

Significant projects in the 2013 budget include rebuilding Pheasant Run Drive, Reading Avenue and Driftwood Lane; continuation of the sidewalk infill program; conducting the biannual citizen survey; expansion of senior services; implementation of a new community development software program; expansion of the summer internship program; and increased tree planting. Once approved, the budget will be available online at www.marylandheights.com/budget.

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Business

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Recent Ribbon Cutting: Auction Warrior’s Resale Auction Warrior’s Resale held their ribbon cutting and grand opening today. The new store is located at #2 Mullanphy Gardens Shopping Center. This store is a different kind of resale shop. They carry rare and unique items, antiques, furniture (both new and vintage), electronics, DVDs, records, VHS, toys, clothing, and much more. They purchase most of their inventory from auctions, hence the name Auction Warrior’s Resale. You can visit their website at www.auctionwarriorsresale.com. Their hours of operation are Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7:59 p.m.

We welcome Auction Warrior’s Resale to our beautiful city.

6

Learn & Play

SUDOKU:

December 5, 2012 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

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.

Youngest Pick: “The Country Mouse and the City Mouse” Sometimes it’s best to be satisfied with the plate of cheese life dishes out to us. So it goes in “The Country Mouse and the City Mouse,” a fable by Aesop that will never grow old. This gorgeous redo with illustrations and words by Helen Ward is simply stunning.

Life is quite satisfactory for a bitty brown country mouse. He revels in the “ripe orchards of fall,” and “the sun-warmed earth in the spring.” But the rural rodent also knows the “aching hunger of a long, cold winter,” and the dangers that lurk in the woods.

Unrest seizes him when his city cousin comes to visit.

Suddenly, life in a metropolis sounds pretty appetizing.

With a scamper, country mouse sets off on an adventure that doesn’t quite turn out as he had planned.

Community News is proud to offer our readers “Book Buzz.” This column will feature great books for children in three categories: Youngest Pick: early childhood to the first or second grade, Middle Pick: elementary school children, and Oldest Pick: middle school children. Enjoy!

Reprinted with permission, Missourian Publishing Company. Copyright 2012.

Joke of the week:

The Mouse Family

Once there was a family of mice. One day, the mother said that they needed food. So the first mouse went to get some cheese when he came back his mom said "what kind of cheese is that?" He said, "cheddar." "How do you know?" his mom said. "It said it on the pakage" he replied.

See solution on page 13

The second mouse went out and came back with swiss cheese. His mom said "how do you know it's swiss cheese?" He said, "it's from a swiss cheese factory." The last and final mouse went out and came back with nacho cheese. His mom asked "how do you know it's nacho cheese?"

The mouse said, "after I took it, this big man was chasing me yelling “that's not yo cheese!”

Movie

“Life of Pi”

Photo courtesy of 20th Century Fox

A well-crafted story about religion, faith, and survival, “Life of Pi” is a film that may get lost in the flood of holiday films this year. With Yann Martel’s original novel to guide him, director Ang Lee crafted a cinematic world filled with hope, terror, and some beautiful animals.

The story opens with a writer interviewing the adult Piscine Molitor (Irrfan Khan)

By Steve Bryan - Rated: PG

about his unusual name and his equally intriguing life. In flashbacks, Pi (played as a teen by Suraj Sharma) recalls growing up as the son of a zookeeper in the French territory of Pondicherry.

Financial problems force the family to sell everything except the animals. After boarding a freighter for a better life in another country, Pi and his family run into rough waters while at sea. Pi is washed overboard, landing in a lifeboat with a zebra and a hungry Bengal tiger. The young man’s survival depends on finding enough food to eat while not becoming the tiger’s dinner in the process.

Whimsical and intriguing, “Life of Pi” is a very watchable film. The bulk of the action takes place on that tiny lifeboat. Director Ang Lee keeps the camera focused on Pi’s tiny universe within the boat and the surrounding water. Lee occasionally shows the beauty of the vast sea surrounding the boy, though.

Actor Suraj Sharma does an outstanding job in the title role. Like Tom Hanks in “Castaway,” Sharma is separated from the other characters for most of the story. His only companion, the tiger named Richard Parker, is mostly a computer-generated image. Ang Lee has said in interviews that the CGI was necessary to keep his leading man from getting eaten for real.

“Life of Pi” also talks about religion in great detail. Before his adventure at sea, the adult Pi recounts his efforts to find a belief system that works for him. Calling religion a house with many rooms, Pi embraces the Catholic faith and also becomes a Muslim while growing up in Pondicherry.

Definitely not the typical holiday film, “Life of Pi” is a powerful piece that may be too intense for younger members of the family. For curious viewers hungry for something different this year, however, director Ang Lee and leading man Suraj Sharma are serving up something quite special at the multiplex.

“Life of Pi,” rated PG for emotional thematic content throughout, some scary actions sequences, and peril, currently is playing in local theaters.

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www.mycnews.com • Community News • December 5, 2012

School

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Hazelwood School District Hosts the FIRST® LEGO® League Qualifier Tournament Recently, Hazelwood School District hosted the FIRST® LEGO® League (FLL®) Qualifier Tournament. Dr. Grayling Tobias, superintendent, and other HSD staff members, welcomed FLL staff, judges, parents and students from the Missouri region, including one team from Belleville, Illinois.

Dr. Grayling Tobias, Hazelwood superintendent is pictured with other There were a total of 19 teams which competed in the FLL Quali- HSD staff and Hazelwood West Middle students, team “TechnoCats” Hazelwood North Middle School “Robo Panthers” test project prior fier tournament. HSD had six teams that participated: three teams to judging from Hazelwood GALACTIC program, two from Hazelwood North Middle School and one from Hazelwood West Middle School.

Immediately following the tournament opener, teams were off, sizing-up the competition before testing their own projects.

Participating teams were challenged to develop SENIOR SOLUTIONS to improve the quality of life for people 60+ years old, by helping them continue to be independent, engaged, and connected in their communities.

Teams had to research issues and speak with local seniors to identify a problem or challenge. The team then developed a research based solution to the problem.

Hazelwood GALACTIC students, MiniBots team, put final touches on ro- Hazelwood GALACTIC students, the “RoboTechs” advanced to the The robotics field is designed to represent healthy living for se- botics project finals niors. The teams design, build and program a robot using LEGO ence, engineering and technology skills, that inspire innovation, and that foster wellMindstorms.

The FLL Challenge had three components: the Robot Game, the Project, and the rounded life capabilities including self-confidence, communication, and leadership.

“Congratulations to all HSD teams for your work in developing remarkable RoCore Values. botic solutions and for participating in this tournament,” said Tobias. “I would like The Robot Game and Project are what teams do, and the Core Values guide teams to also give special recognition to the GALACTIC team RoboTechs, for advancing through the experience. to the next round in the competition.

Overall, the mission of FLL is to inspire young people to be science and technol“Special thanks to Principal Dr. Gary Jansen, Hazelwood East Middle School, staff ogy leaders, by engaging them in exciting mentor-based programs that build sciand student volunteers for hosting this initial tournament,” he added.

STLCC-Florissant Valley Hosts FIRST® Robotics Weekend – Dec. 8-9 St Louis Community College – Florissant Valley continues to support Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) programs for kids of all ages. The weekend of Dec. 8-9 will see two major robotics events and over 700 elementary, middle and high school students on campus.

Saturday will be the first of four qualifying events for FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) teams in Missouri. Thirty-six teams of students in grades 7-12 will compete for a chance to advance to the Missouri FTC Championship at Missouri S&T on Feb. 23, 2013. This year’s game is called Ring It Up!. The game challenges teams to build and program robots to traverse a 12x12 field while manipulating plastic rings into scoring positions on racks while avoiding their competitors. Teams have been working on the challenge since September and are eager to see how they perform.

Sunday is the culmination of the FIRST LEGO® League season for Eastern Missouri teams. One hundred and fifty-seven teams competed in the eight qualifying events offered in November.

Now the forty advancing teams will gather for the Eastern Missouri FLL Championship event. The teams will run their LEGO

MINDSTORMS® robots on the competition table and present their research from the Senior Solutions Challenge.

Visitors are welcome to attend the events. They are FREE and open to the public.

Activities will run 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. both days. The activities will be in the gymnasium on campus, 3400 Pershall Road, and FIRST signs will point the way.

For more information about the programs, visit www.stlfirst.org.

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December 5, 2012 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

SAINT CHARLES Christmas Traditions Welcome to St. Charles Christmas Traditions!

Information from www.stcharleschristmas.com

Where Christmas Past Comes to Life Close your eyes and listen to the sounds of holiday music

world. Over 30 characters have joined in the festivities, each wearing hand crafted clothing representing their heritage from the Victorian Carolers, and the Fife & Drum Corps. and carrying trading cards to give to visitors as a keepsake.

Smell the roasting of chestnuts in the air. Capture in your Shop and dine along the brick-lined streets festively decomind a time in America when life was simpler, and Christrated with greenery and red bows. mas was elegant and magical.

The South Main Preservation Society first created this This holiday celebration is staged in a charming village on truly unique family event in the early 1970s, while an effort the Missouri River known as St. Charles. The street comes was underway to revitalize the South Main Historic District. alive with Christmas Legends and Santas from around the Now almost 40 years later, Christmas Traditions remains a favorite festival, attracting a wide range of visitors to our area. Funding for this event is provided by the City of Saint Charles, via the Greater Saint Charles Convention & Visitors Frenchtown Heritage Museum - 1121 North 2nd Street Bureau.

The Glass Workbench - 318 South Main Street For a complete schedule and many more loThe Grand Opera House - 311 North Main Street cal events, please visit www.stcharleschristmas.

Jansens Clocks - 608 South Main Street com.

Little O’s Soda Shop - 125 North Main Street St. Charles Chamber of Commerce - 2201 1st Capitol Drive The Santa Parade St. Charles Convention Center - 1 Convention Center Plaza Saturdays and Sundays during Festival St. Charles Convention & Visitors Bureau - 230 South Main Street 1:30 p.m.

Begins at 1000 S. Main Street and ends in Berthold Square at 200 S. Main Street Enjoy the pageantry of a live parade led by the Lewis & Clark Fife & Drum Corps, and topped off with Santa and Mrs. Claus in a horse-drawn carriage. Follow the procession to Berthold Square for caroling and a short, family-friendly program. Enter your child to win a ride with Santa at www.historicstcharles.com.

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Breakfast with Santa

Saturdays, December 8, 15, and 22 9 a.m.

Mother-In-Law House, 500 S. Main Street Come enjoy breakfast at the beautiful Mother-In-Law House Restaurant for an up-close-and-personal visit with Santa. Bring your holiday wish list. Plus, don’t forget the camera to capture all the holiday fun.

Doors open at 9 a.m., and breakfast is served at 9:30 a.m.

Parking is free on the street and nearby lots.

Tickets are $15 for children (12 and under) $18 for adults and reservations are required. But hurry! Only a limited number of tickets are available.

To order tickets, contact Karen Godfrey at 636.255.6155.

“A Clueless Christmas” A Comical Interactive Christmas Mystery

www.stcharlesconventioncenter.com

Dinner Show – December 9, 16, and 23 • 6 p.m.

Grand Opera House Banquet Center and Event Center , 311 N. Main Street Ever wish you could be the one to figure out who-dunnit? Come join us for this mysterious show with attendees such as Ms. Scarlet, Col. Mustard, Mr. Green, and Mrs. Peacock. Although Mr. Body may be the first to be murdered, anyone could be next! If you guess the true murderer, you could leave with

www.jansensclocks.com

www.mycnews.com • Community News • December 5, 2012

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SAINT CHARLES Christmas Traditions Photos with Santa

Saturdays during Festival 11 a.m. - 5 p.m..

Sundays during Festival 12 - 5 p.m.

222 North Main Street in tandem w/ Trains on Main Come visit Santa and his elves, and make sure he knows what you would like for Christmas! For a nominal fee you can purchase professional photos that come in a gold-foiltrimmed frame. Additional photos in varying sizes can be ordered online. Please note that Santa will join the parade from 1:15 to 2:30 p.m. each Saturday and Sunday during the festival.

Carriage Rides

Saturdays during Festival • 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Sundays during Festival • 12 - 5 p.m.

Monday, December 24 • 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Board the carriage at the Tourism Center at 230 S. Main Street. Take a relaxing carriage ride along Main Street during the holiday season (weather permitting – not operating during parade). Rides are $5 per person.

To reserve a carriage for a special event or evening during the holiday season, please call 636.398.4123.

Photos courtesy of Karen Godfrey

Trains on Main

your own fabulous Christmas gift. We’ll give you a hint... it wasn’t Col. Mustard in the Library with the Candlestick!

Dinner show tickets are $62.50 per person and lunch show tickets are $50 per person. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and dinner is served at 6 p.m. Parking is free on the street and nearby lots.

To order tickets, contact Karen Godfrey at 636.255.6155.

Decorations

Now thru December 24, Wednesday thru Friday – Noon 3 p.m., Saturday and Sunday – Noon - 5 p.m.

Hosted by Frenchtown Heritage Museum. A festive train display including a Victorian winter scene and various other themes. Admission is $2 for adults and $1 for children (ages 3 to 12 years). For more information, call 636-724-2106.

Marshmallow Roast

Fridays during Festival • 7 p.m.

Chestnut Roasters’ Fire Pit, Between 700 and 800 blocks of S. Main Street Join some of your favorite Christmas Traditions characters at the Chestnut Roasters’ fire to enjoy roasting complimentary marshmallows and listening to holiday story-telling around the fire.

Kissing Ball

Kister Park Gazebo, 400 block of S. Main Street A special bundle of mistletoe, holly, ribbon and evergreens mark the perfect spot for you to fall in love or rekindle the joys of yesteryear.

Gingerbread Village

Festival Hours until December 22 at 6 p.m.

Main Street Church, 116 N. Main Street Visit the candy filled world of Gingerbread Village. All gingerbread houses from the decorating contest will be on display for your holiday enjoyment. For more information, visit www.churchonmain.com/gingerbreadold.

Santa Send-off

Monday, December 24 • 1:30 p.m.

Begins at 1000 S. Main Street and ends in Berthold Square at the corner of First Capitol Drive and S. Main Street.

Don’t miss the opportunity to send one final wave and cheer Santa on as he heads back to the North Pole for the big night!

Sleigh Bell Singers

Fridays during Festival Various Restaurants on N. Main Street Our own Sleigh Bell Singers join us for a night of merriment singing the songs of the 1930s and 1940s while stopping at various restaurants in the historic North Main Street district.

Saint Charles is one of America’s great Historic Districts.

There is no other place quite like South Main Street, which features 10 blocks of historic buildings, some dating as far back as the late 1700s.

For Christmas Traditions, we pull out all the stops to create a festive setting the whole family can enjoy. With more than 10,000 feet of fresh greenery, 150 wreaths, 1,200 hand-tied red velvet bows, and thousands of white lights in the trees and on the buildings, you just can’t help but get caught up in the holiday spirit.

In the daytime, the crisp reds and greens provide a colorful backdrop as you walk the brick streets enjoying all that Christmas Traditions has to offer. And in the evening, the white lights make a nighttime stroll or drive down www.ohbanquets.com Main Street one of St. Louis’ best free light displays.

The holiday decor on Main Street is just one more way that Christmas Past Comes To Life in Saint Charles during Christmas Traditions.

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www.SantasNorthPoleDash.com

www.historicstcharles.com

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Etc.

December 5, 2012 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

Sports

Gary Baute Indoor Football Monsters Hold Impressive Tryouts ***Owner Andrew Haines In The House Your Missouri Monsters will take the turf at the Family Arena in St. Charles for their first home game Friday March 8.

First, need to get players and that is what they did last weekend with over 50 on the turf. Coaches and owners evaluated every position with stopwatches and clipboards.

Several in the mix showed off their speed and agility.

Moms, dads and friends were in the stands cheered their favorite player. Pictured are Felicia, her son D’Andre and his buddy Oreon. ~~~Run all the way through Another Tryout THIS Saturday For Indoor Football ***At St. Louis Sports Arena Go to the website www.uiflmonsters.com to get all the details for this unique opportunity to play for the Missouri Monsters professional indoor football team. ~~~Another change to strut your stuff Gymnastics Set To Host Mizzou For Scrimmage ***Lady Lions The Lindenwood women’s gymnastics squad is set to host Mizzou in a dual scrimmage on December 9 at 2 p.m. This year marks the first year for the Lady Lion gymnastics team.

The roster for the Lady Lions entails 10 freshmen and one transfer junior. The team comes from all over the United States, including members from Texas, Colo-

Joe Morice

rado, California, Nebraska, Georgia, Florida, Illinois and Missouri.

On the regular season schedule for the Lady Lions, they will have eight dual meets and two tournaments. The inaugural dual meet for the Lady Lions is scheduled for January 5 at the University of Denver. The team will host three regular season meets, with one against in-state opponent Southeast Missouri State University on January 18, one against Bowling Green State University on February 9, and one against Texas Woman’s University on March 10th.

The Lindenwood gymnastics team is a member of the Midwest Independent Conference. ~~~Thanks to Jen Lawson, Sports Information-Graduate Assistant of Lindenwood Rams Heat Up In The Desert ***Rams 31-Cardinals 17 The St. Louis Rams beat the Phoenix Cardinals 31-17 to remain unbeaten in the four games played within the division.

Many highlights were found on both sides of the line of scrimmage: *The last time the Rams beat out their opponent by a 14 point margin was vs Washington (9/26/10) *Running back Steven Jackson rushed for 139 yards on 24 carries, marks his second game this season with 100-plus yards and 33rd of his career. His 139 yards is his 10th highest total of his career *Quarterback Sam Bradford completed eight of 17 passes for 205 yards, and two touchdowns for a 106.2 passer rating. His second highest rating of the season *Corner back Janoris Jenkins recorded two interceptions both for a touchdowns *Jenkins is the first Ram to record two interceptions for touchdowns in a game and is the fourth rookie in NFL history with two interceptions for touchdowns in a single game *Line backer James Laurinaitis made his first interception and returned for 18 yards *Safety Craig Dahl registered his fourth interception of the year in the third quarter and returned it 38 yards *The four interceptions marks the fourth highest interceptions total since the Rams moved to St. Louis. ~~~Keep up the scoring

“Over the Fence”

Editorial

Non-Conforming Conformists Do you remember the old witticism, “If you remember the sixties, you weren’t part of them”? It referred to the era of young people we referred to as “Hippies” or “Non-conformists“. You remember those. They were the younger generation that deplored the so-called, “Establishment” and dropped out, so to speak. They were usually college students, many of whom resented the draft and believed the war in Viet Nam was a political sham. They grew long hair, wore strange clothing and the drug world began in earnest. Many parents were horrified.

I dubbed them NCC’s; short for non-conforming conformists.

Many of my generation were on the fence in one respect or another. By the time Viet Nam escalated into a sizable police action (sic, war), the military preferred

www.HiddenLakeLiving.org

slightly younger people than myself.

A non-conforming conformist college student I knew grew his hair long and burned his draft card. He said he was going to Canada. His father, an army veteran, threatened him with severe bodily harm. Out of spite he enlisted in the Marine Corp. His name is among those on “The Wall” in Washington DC. When I was a teenager, I tried to be an NCC. I grew sideburns and combed my locks into what was called a “Duck’s Butt.” This was a flat-top hairdo with long sides slicked rearwards to meet each other with the aid of Brylcreem. ‘A little dab’ll do ya’…or a big dab. My hair reflected moonlight.

Then my father saw it. He made me realize that conforming to my peer group wasn’t non-conforming. Conforming to his was okay, though. Later, the barber repaired my angry-father scissors damage with a clippers and a knowing grin.

These days, NCC’s bring new inspiration to their groups. They have tattoos and baggy pants down below the gluteus maximus (thankfully, they wear undies), jewelry spiked through various parts of their anatomy, strange hairdos with one side purple and the other side bare or spiked hair that looks like tiny Christmas trees and so on. I doubt Brylcreem could make hair stand up like that. Maybe they use axle grease.

While being more bizarre than my generation, they’re still NCC’s. Peer groups still clutter the teenage world more than ever.

From gang colors to goofy hairdos, it’s still, “Look at me, I’m different”…but not really.

I’m not scorning NCC’s, however. If everybody was the same, what a boring world this would be.

The recent Palestine/Israel conflict was another form of NCC’s battling another over religious differences. To me, it seemed more about the lust for power by leaders with naïve adolescent views of war. It reminded me of the street gangs here at home. Usually, they’re boys with weapons fighting other boys with weapons over slights, real or imagined. The Palestinians in Gaza obtain newer versions of weapons every few years and can’t wait to use them.

Like street gangs, the ones with the best or most weapons wins but ultimately, the people who are killed and maimed do not. It makes bragging rights a bit hard for their families.

Viet Nam’s conflict eventually passed on to another of history’s wars fought and suffered by young heroes, non-conforming or otherwise. Some of us wondered why all the fuss about a small country that wasn’t a real military threat. Since then, it’s been overshadowed by new wars with even deadlier weapons.

We also have new youngsters to use them or die trying. Will there be a new wall with names for their friends and families to look for? It seems appropriate. Conformism or non-conformism won’t matter. Remembering them will.

www.mycnews.com • Community News • December 5, 2012

Editorial

Etc.

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Shelly Schneider

Driving Lessons Christopher and Michael have their driver’s licenses, and our 17 year-old daughter, Sam, will test for the license any day now. There are so many thoughts that bounce around in my head when I realize that the person sitting next to me in the Mocha Machine (our pet name for the 2000 Pontiac Montana that we own) was expelled from my womb just yesterday (or so it seems). I think about her youth, my aging; her safety, my safety; her sheer exhilaration, my sheer terror…you get the idea.

Jim graciously accepted the role of driving instructor, and he did an amazing job.

I didn’t think there would be much for me to do after Sam got used to driving Hwy. K and Mexico Road. She even drove I-70 on a recent Saturday morning trip to grandma’s house. I now know that my biggest contribution to a would-be licensed driver is to watch my Ps and Qs. BC (before children for this column’s sake), I used to yell at less-than-attentive drivers. We all do it at some point in our lives. Hopefully, by the time we reach 40, we’ve grown out of it. In my 20s I yelled things like, “Hey, moron! Where’d you get your license…Kmart?” AC (after children) I used to mumble little gems like, “It’s called a turn signal, you idiot.” And ACWLAC (after children who listen and copy) I toned it down to something like, “Nice one, bud/chick.”

I’ve learned that no one is perfect, and anyone can have a bad day. So if someone cuts out in front of me and drives 20 mph in a 40 mph zone, I just think to myself, “That’s o.k., honey.” And, especially when the kids are in the van I do things like wave to someone who is kind enough to let me into traffic.

This school year, however, has (at times) brought me full circle to BC Shelly. I still drive Sam to high school every once-in-a-while. Our goal is to make it out the door by 7:10 a.m. I think we’ve managed to meet that goal once or twice this year. But we still get out the door early enough for the Sam to get to her locker and into her first-hour class on time. I turn left out of our subdivision onto Knaust, which is usually backed up from a stop sign at Progress South Elementary School south to street from which I turn. Knaust is a two-lane street, with a turn lane in the middle. Most of us, I’m sure, are acutely aware that the turn lane is for left turns. And the majority of us know that we are supposed to drive in the turn lane for a few hundred feet before making a left turn. There are those, I’ve discovered, who think the left turn lane is their own personal express lane to South Middle School. These people drive in the turn lane for at least two-tenths of a mile before turning into South Middle School to drop their child(ren) off for the day.

Recipe:

The Perfect Holiday Roast

(Family Features) When it comes to holiday entertaining, there is nothing more elegant – or easy – than serving a beautiful roast. The elegance factor we can all understand, but easy? It’s true. There is no need to be intimidated by a roast ever again.

Blue Cheese and Cabernet Sauvignon Demi Glace Serves 4 to 6 Ingredients: - 1/2 teaspoon olive oil - 2 tablespoons shallots, finely chopped - 1 teaspoon garlic, finely chopped - 1/2 cup Cabernet Sauvignon - 1 cup Demi Glace* - 2 ounces Maytag Blue Cheese, crumbled

That annoys me. Why? Because these people seem to consider themselves so important that the rules of the road (and of etiquette, by the way) don’t apply. The people I’m talking about are repeat offenders. Or at least they used to be. The lady who drove the green minivan hasn’t done it in a while. She used to…on a daily basis. And for the past few weeks I’ve watched someone in a dark gray Dodge drive past me in the turn lane.

I think it just annoys me because these people have some superiority complex. I’m still careful of the words I choose, but I do think it needs to be discussed when the kids are in the van. So we talk about being polite while driving, about following the law, and about the dangers of driving in a turn lane for two-tenths of a mile.

This morning Sam noticed an O’Fallon police officer in the Boonslick State School for the Severely Handicapped, located just south of Progress South Elementary and South Middle School. Not 1.4 seconds later the dark gray Dodge passed us in the turn lane.

“Yes!” I exclaimed with a fist pump as we all watched the police officer turn on his lights and pull the Dodge over. I then promptly apologized to my children for the emotional display (it was more than a “Yes!” with a fist pump…I think some Vincent Price-type laughter may have been a part of the scene).

I used to be a “Do as I say and not as I do” kind of person. Don’t be that kind of person. It doesn’t work. Be the kind of person you want your child to be. You will mess up from time to time, and that is where humility must be the dominating force, not self-righteousness.

While still glowing from the Dodge’s misfortune, I rolled through the three-way stop sign (something I used to do way too much…a Florida stop I call it).

“Hey, Mom,” Sam said from the passenger seat.

“Yeah, sweetie?” I asked, still grinning from ear to ear.

“You didn’t come to a full and complete stop,” she said.

Here is where the Holy Spirit gave me the grace to think before speaking. Humility, remember?

“You’re absolutely correct,” I said. “It’s a good thing the police officer is busy. We should never be in such a hurry that we don’t stop at a stop sign.”

Sam is learning to drive. Shelly is learning that children notice just about everything we say and do. Let’s be careful out there.

Tender roasts are always cooked uncovered using dry heat methods, which results in producing the flavorful, deep brown crusty exterior. It’s also important to allow the roast to rest before carving to ensure that the juices in the center have time to redistribute for maximum flavor and tenderness.

This recipe for Blue Cheese and Cabernet Sauvignon Demi Glace is easy to make and just the right touch for the perfect holiday roast.

Roast Buyer’s Guide Use this rule of thumb to determine how much meat you need to purchase per serving: • Boneless Roast: 1/2 pound, uncooked • Bone-In Roast: 1 pound, uncooked • Standing Rib Roast, also known as a Prime Rib Roast: allow 2 servings per rib For a free “Great Gathering Guide and Cookbook” filled with delicious recipes from Omaha Steaks, call 1-800228-9055, or visit www.OmahaSteaks.com.

such as Omaha Steaks.

Directions: 1. In a sauce pan heat olive oil. Sauté shallots and garlic until transparent.

2. Add Cabernet Sauvignon to pan and reduce by half.

3. Add Demi Glace to pan and slowly bring to a boil.

4. Stir in blue cheese.

5. Serve with Beef Roast or Steak. www.bridgeatflorissant.com *Demi Glace can be made from scratch or purchased from a specialty food store

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What’s Happening

Church Jan. 5: Basement & Tailgate Sale At Northside Christian Church, 9635 Hwy. 367 (Lewis & Clark Blvd.), St. Louis, MO. Church basement sale, Tailgate sale to sell your own treasures. LOTS of New items have arrived. Basement/ Tailgate is 8 a.m. - Noon. $10 for a double parking spot to sell your own treasures. Call: 314.868.5722, to reserve your tailgate spot.

As we move into the Christmas season, families have multiple opportunities to enjoy Breakfast with Santa: • At St. Angela Merici in the Gym on Saturday, Dec. 1, 9 a.m. Noon. Please contact Veronica 314.921.3348 for information, tickets are available for sale now and at the door on Dec. 1.

• At St. Norbert (16475 New Halls Ferry Rd., Florissant) in the gym on Saturday, Dec. 1, 9-11 a.m. For tickets, call Sheila at 314.921.7489.

• At Sacred Heart (751 N. Jefferson St., Florissant) on Saturday, Dec. 1, 8 a.m. - Noon. Limited spots available, contact Leila at 314.413.1429 for information and reservations.

• At St. Sabina (1625 Swallow Ln, Florissant) on Sunday, Dec. 2, 10 a.m. - Noon. Check the parish’s bulletin for details and a reservation form (due Nov. 29).

December 5, 2012 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

• At St. Rose Philippine Duchesne Parish Hall (1220 Paddock Dr) on Saturday, Dec. 8, 9-11:30 a.m. For more information call Maria at 314.830.9878.

• At Holy Name of Jesus Community Center (10235 Ashbrook, 63137) on Saturday, Dec. 8, 9 a.m. - Noon - proceeds benefit the Holy Name of Jesus/Our Lady of the Rosary youth group’s trip to Washington DC for the March for Life. For more information or reservations, contact Judy Krenn at 314.761.6570.

• At Blessed Teresa of Calcutta (150 N. Elizabeth Ave, Ferguson) on Saturday, Dec. 8, 9-11 a.m. in the school cafeteria. For reservations contact Susie at 314.363.7512

by December 3.

Till Dec. 14: Caring & Sharing Food Drive for T.E.A.M. Food Pantry Drop off your canned goods at The Eagan Center, JFK Community Center, or Florissant City Hall .

First and Third Fridays: Fish Fry 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. at Bellefontaine United Methodist Church, 10600 Bellefontaine Road, St. Louis, Mo. 63137. Single entrée $7, double entre $9. Kids under 6 are free. Info: 314.867.0800.

Dec. 6: Florissant Valley Historical Society Christmas Luncheon Taille de Noyer will be decorated in her holiday finery for the annual Christmas Luncheon to be held on Thursday, December 6. Seatings are at 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. Following lunch (or before if you arrive early), guests are invited to tour all four floors of Taille. The lower area houses many treasures from early Florissant including one of the first street lights, a pair of wooden shoes made locally and fixtures from Wiethaupt’s General Store (now Dooley’s Florist) and Miss Bright’ Hat Shop, both former businesses in Old Town. The 1st and 2nd floors contain furnishings that reflect the different periods of the house and the 3rd floor Costume Room boasts a collection

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

Events

Dec. 6: Christmas Auction Slient auction and preview begin at 8:30 a.m. Sweet breads and coffee.

Regualr auction at 9:30. Luncheon will follow this auction. Only handcrafted items will be offered.

Tickets $10. Please make luncheon reservations by calling the church office at 314.837.9404, by Nov. 29.

Childcare reservations may be made by calling the church office as well. Please bring a sack lunch for your child. Snack will be provided.

of clothing that spans more than a hundred years. Tickets are $15 each and reservations are necessary. You can order tickets by sending your check to Florissant Valley Historical Society, P.O. Box 298, Florissant, Mo. 63032. Resrvations can also be made by calling Mary Kay, 409.9478 or Carol, 838.4536.

Please specify seatings time when making reservations. Tickets will be held at the door. Seating is limited so please make reservations early.

Dec. 8: Nagle’s Variety Store Open House 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. “Live” Reindeer, Sleigh and Santa from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. #19 Patterson Plaza (63031) Dec. 7-8: Trinkets, Treasures & Treats Sale Freiends of Ferguson (FLIERS) is having their Annual Trinkets, Treasures & Treats Sale. Dec. 7 from 3-6:30 p.m. and Dec. 8 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Held in the Library Auditorium, 35 No. Florissant Rd. Dec. 10: “Sights and Sounds of the Season” Concert 7:30 p.m. Residents are invited to celebrate the holiday season with the Maryland Heights Community Chorus at the Maryland Heights Centre. The free “Sights and Sounds of the Season” concert will feature favorites like “White Christmas,” “Home for the Holidays” and many more. The performance will conclude with refreshments and a meet and greet. For more information, call 314. 738.2599.

Business Spotlight A place to find out a little more about your local businesses! www.Welsch-heatcool.com

Dec. 15: North County Community Children’s Holiday Event at Jamestown Mall 1 p.m. in Center Court. For more information call 314.355.0400.

Saturdays: Veterans: Learn guitar for FREE! We meet every Saturday at 9:30 am in Historic St. Charles. Call Bill Dennis for more information 314.479.5750.

Calling All St. Augustine’s Classmates Planning is underway for an All School Reunion. If you attended St. Augustine’s School located at Herbert & Lismore streets in the city of St. Louis we want to hear from you. Please contact a member of the planning committee: Sandy Tricamo (‘66) 314.791.7714; Leo Neuner (‘65) 972.951.4853; Don Becker (‘68) 636.399.0088; Tom Hartnett (‘66) 314.623.9950.

You can also register on Facebook as you reminisce viewing the old parish pictures which have been posted. Search for: St. Augustine Catholic School - St. Louis Mo. Bridgeton Trails Library Branch Programs 3455 McKelvey Rd., St. Louis, MO 63044. Info: 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.

Inviting All Florissant Senior Citizens To Join One Of The Bingo Clubs With The City Of Florissant!!

Please contact the Florissant Senior Office for more information at 839-7604.

• Monday Club: Meets every Monday for Bingo from 11:30-2:30 on the lower level of the James J. Eagan Center. Bring a sandwich coffee and tea are available. Interesting day trips to St. Louis Area locations are also scheduled.

• Florissant Older Adult Club: Meets the second Tuesday of each month from 11-1:30 on the lower level of the James J. Eagan Center.

Bring your lunch! Bingo, Trips, Speakers and special events are

www.mycnews.com • Community News • December 5, 2012 planned.

• Wednesday Club: Meets every Wednesday for Bingo from 11:302:30 on the lower level of the James J. Eagan Center. Bring a sandwichcoffee and tea available. Interesting day trips to St. Louis Area locations are also available.

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

Come join us and let us help you with your dream. We have Authors, Songwriters, Playwrites, Teachers and more. Meet at the Baden Liberary 8448 Church Rd. For more info call 314.388.2400.

Health Dec. 6: Caregiver Classes If you are someone’s caregiver or will be a caregiver in the near future, come to this caregiver class, free to the public. 10:30-11:30 a.m., Siteman Cancer Center conference room at Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital campus. Learn more about legal documents and relations, qualifications for assistance and deductions from an elder law attorney.

Christian Hospital To register call 314.747.9355 Dec. 8: “The Basics: Memory Loss, Dementia & Alzheimer’s” 10 a.m. - Noon. Christian Hospital Detrick Building Atrium (11133 Dunn Rd. 63136). Registration is required - Call 314.653.9355.

Dec. 19: American Red Cross Blood Drive Christian Hospital is teaming up with the American Red Cross to host a Blood Drive open to the general public. Stop by to roll up your sleeve and give blood to help save

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

• Location: Christian Hospital Detrick Building Atrium, 11133 Dunn Rd. 63136 Registration: www.redcrossblood. org and use the sponsor code: christianhospital: or contact Sandy Barnes at slm9123@bjc.org Dates: Dec. 19 Time: 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

• Location: Northwest HealthCare Community Room, 1225 Graham Rd. 63031 Registration: www.redcrossblood. org and use the sponsor code: northwesthealthcare; or contact Mindy McLain at mlm7458@bjc. org . Date: Dec. 19 Time: 12-4 p.m.

Dec. 6: A Really ‘Bazaar’ Christmas in The Village 1-3:30 pm. Join us at this holiday bazaar with items and services for purchase from a variety of vendors and enjoy a warm atmosphere, delicious holiday treats and shimmering decorations. Bring a friend or make a new one. Location: Village North Retirement Community, 11160 Village North Dr., 63136 (just west of Christian Hospital off Dunn Rd.). Cost: Free. Registration is required by calling 314.747.

WELL (9355).

Dec. 8: The Basics: Memory Loss, Dementia & Alzheimer’s Disease 10 a.m. - noon. Christian Hospital Mental Health Services is partnering with the Alzheimer’s Association to provide this informative program on detection, cause and risk factors, stages of the disease, treatment and much more. Location: Christian Hospital Atrium, 11133 Dunn Rd. 63136. Cost: Free.

Registration is required by calling 314.747.WELL (9355).

Dec. 19: Healthy Holiday Tips 9-10 a.m. Now is the perfect time

to invest in your health and take control of your food choices. Learn how the food choices you make today can affect your health and wellbeing for life. Join us and learn tips and suggestions on how to maintain a healthy lifestyle during the holidays. Location: Jamestown Mall Food Court. Cost: Free. Call 314.747.WELL (9355) to register.

Volunteers needed at Christian Hospital Christian Hospital is calling out for volunteers that can do a significant amount of walking to run errands within the hospital. Discover the rewards of volunteering!

If you’re looking for a rewarding way to spend your time, volunteering at Christian Hospital is an ideal match. Volunteer positions are available in many different areas.

You’ll meet a variety of interesting people while making a difference in our community. Applications are available at www.chrisitianhospital.org in the Volunteer Office, located off the hospital’s main lobby. For more information, call the Christian Hospital volunteer office at 314-653-5032.

SSM DePaul Healthy Happenings Dec. 4: Stroke Support Group 1 – 3 p.m. May Center at SSM DePaul Health Center. A presentation and educational session for stroke survivors and their family members or caregivers. Call 314.344.7392 for more info.

Dec. 5: Adjustable Gastric Banding Group 5:30 – 7 p.m. May Center at SSM DePaul Health Center.

Call 1.877.477.6954 for more info. Please check the website at ssmweightloss.com for updates or

What’s Happening

cancellations of meetings.

Dec. 13: Mighty Hearts and Lungs – Support Group Noon – 1 p.m. SSM DePaul Health Center. For patients and family members coping with cardiac and pulmonary health issues; learn how to better manage your condition for a healthier life. Call Larry Buhr at 314.344.6023 to register or for more info.

Dec. 19: I Can Cope 8:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. May Center Room A at SSM DePaul Health Center. This group provides education and support to those facing cancer. It is held the third Wednesday of every other month.

Continental breakfast and lunch included. 314.344.6090 to register or for info.

Every Mon. & Tues. in Dec.: Healthy Meal Replacement (HMR) Program Orientation Mondays: 6 – 7 p.m. Tuesdays: Noon – 1 p.m. SSM DePaul Wellness Center. Attend a free orientation to learn: the Five Success Variables needed to lose weight, different diet options available and how important physical activity really is. Please call to register at 1.877.477.6954.

Ongoing 8-week sessions: Smoking Cessation Classes SSM DePaul Health Center SSM DePaul, partnering with St. Louis County’s tobacco-free initiative called “Let’s Face It,” is offering free smoking cessation classes to the public. The 8-week course assists

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participants in determining their readiness to quit smoking and provide the tools necessary to increase their success rate in becoming smoke free. Space is limited for these on-going classes. Call 1.866.

SSM.DOCS to register or for info.

SSM DePaul Wellness Center Tired of getting locked into longterm memberships that you never use? Join the DePaul Wellness Center and receive a personalized program for your specific needs.

Classes available on strength training, nutrition and smoking cessation. Call 314.344.6177 for details.

SSM St. Joseph Hospital Healthy Happenings Speaker’s Bureau Our SSM speakers are available for organizations, clubs, community and church groups. Our health professionals will speak up to one hour free of charge. A variety of health care topics can be presented to your group or organization. Call 636.949.7159 for more information.

Answers from page 8

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December 5, 2012 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

This Weeks Shelter: All Paws Rescue • PO Box 1274, O’Fallon, MO 63366 PAWS Line: 636-288-2999• Email: adopt@allpawsrescue.info If you’ve adopted a new family member that you saw in Community News, send us a picture of you and your new pal. Also include a brief story about your pet’s background and how they’re doing now. We’d love to share your happy story with other readers!

Community News, 2139 Bryan Valley Commercial Dr., O’Fallon, MO 63366 or cnews@ centurytel.net.

www.gibsonprinting.com

The U.S. Humane Society estimates 6 to 8 million dogs and cats enter shelters each year, and 3 to 4 million are euthanized. Please do your part to control overpopulation and to limit the number of unwanted animals. SPAY AND NEUTER YOUR PETS!

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www.mycnews.com • Community News • December 5, 2012

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Novena PRAYER TO ST. JUDE May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world, now and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus, Pray for us. St. Jude, Worker of Miracles, Pray for us. St. Jude, Helper of the Hopeless, Pray for us.

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

Thank you, St. Jude. K.B.

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FYI

December 5, 2012 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

A Little White “Shadow” Arrives at the Saint Louis Zoo’s Primate House A black-and-white colobus (CAHL-uh-bus) monkey was born at the Saint Louis Zoo’s Primate House on Halloween, Oct. 31, 2012. Her name is Kivuli (pronounced Kih-VOOlee), which is Swahili for ghost or shadow.

Colobus infants are born with all white hair and a pink face. In contrast, adults are primarily black, with white hair encircling their face and half of their tail. They have a distinctive mantle of long white hair extending from their shoulders around the edge of their back. Infants will change color gradually until they reach adult coloration at about 6 months.

Cecelia, age 13, is raising her first baby under the watchful Photo by Ray Meibaum Saint Louis Zoo eye of the group’s matriarch, Roberta, age 25, who has two offspring of her own – 1-1/2-year-old male, Mosi (MOH-zee), and 5-month-old female, Pili (PEELee).

“Primates rely heavily on learning through experience,” says Joe Knobbe, Saint Louis Zoo manager of primates. “Cecelia is being m o a great mother to her infant .c o itureC royFun .T w w thanks to the wonderful examw ple of parenting she’s learned from Roberta.”

The family of six, including father Kima, age 6, is now on view at the Primate House. Visitors can see the infant poking its head out to look at its new world.

Colobus monkeys are found throughout the forests of east and central Africa. The birth is part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Colobus Species Survival Plan (SSP), a program to manage a genetically healthy population of black and white colobus monkeys in North American zoos.

Start Your Season of Giving at December Blood Drive Make the first gift you give this holiday season the gift of life by donating at the city’s winter blood drive from noon to 3 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 10. The drive will be held in the Municipal Courtroom at the Government Center, 11911 Dorsett Road.

Sponsored by Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center, the drive will help meet an immediate need for blood in the St. Louis community. Although walk-ins are welcome, donors may schedule their own appointments online at www.bloodcenterimpact.org with location code 9407. Donors may also schedule appointments by calling 314.738.2204 or emailing Sara Berry.

Adopt a Homeless Animal this Holiday Season and Receive Missouri Lottery Scratchers Tickets for a Chance to Win Up to $1,000 Adopt a homeless animal this holiday season and you could really be a lucky dog! Now through December 31, pet adopters at St. Louis’ three largest animal care organizations – the Humane Society of Missouri, Animal Protective Association of Missouri, and St. Louis County Animal Care and Control – will receive 10, $1 Missouri Lottery Santa Paws Scratchers along with their furry new friends. The top dog prize for this limited time Scratchers game is $1,000.

During the promotional period, Santa Paws Scratchers will feature a holiday pet scene. The specially designed Scratchers will also be available to the general public for $1.00 each. Scratchers can be redeemed at any of the 5,000 Missouri Lottery retailers across the state. For further details visit www.molottery.com. Pet adoption fee information is available on each of the three animal care organizations’ websites: www.hsmo.org; www.apamo.org; www.stlouisco. com.

“We are proud of this first-time partnership which encourages people to adopt homeless pets in Missouri and give them forever homes,” said May Scheve Reardon, executive director, Missouri Lottery. “Many people consider adding a new pet to their lives during the holiday season and we feel this is a nice reward for those who choose to get their pets from animal shelters.”

The City of O’Fallon presents...

Cars $9 Tuesday special $7 Person Vans $15, buses $1 Per ($25 min.)

Carriage rides reservations required! Call 636-390-4403.

Train rides and sleigh Hayrides reservations required! Call 636-379-5502 to schedule a ride.

Train rides only run on mondays!

November 23–December 30 Closed deCember 25

sun, Tues-Thu 6–9 p.m., Fri and sat 6–10 p.m. at Fort Zumwalt Park in o’Fallon, mo one night only!

$1

off

Tuesday, Dec. 11 • 6–9 p.m.

admission with a canned good

Please present coupon. offer not valid for Holiday stroll, carriage rides, train rides, hayrides or Tuesdays.

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admission $2

For more information or directions, 636-379-5614 or www.ofallon.mo.us/COL www.ofallon.mo.us/COL