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December 14, 2016

Salvation Army fighting for a merry Christmas Learn & Play

Holly, jolly recipies

Community Voices

By Orvin Kimbrough

The Salvation Army Brass Band performs at the Festival of Lights which kicked off the holiday giving season in St. Louis this year.

Photo by Nicholas Elmes

Organization looks to help families in need during the holiday season By Nicholas Elmes Traditionally Christmas has been a time of bounty and joy, but for many families in the St. Louis area, figuring out how to afford to buy presents for their children can be a herculean task. Thankfully hundreds of volunteers and generous donors are there to help, many directing their kindness through the Salvation Army. This year the organization will help thousands of local families through three separate programs, according to Midland Division Director of Communications Jack Wang. He said one of the main programs, the Angel Tree Program, allows local business and shopping centers to host an Angel Tree, which is decorated with ornaments containing information about needy children. “Individual angels are adopted and items are purchased by donors specifically for that child and the gifts are returned to The Salvation Army. Parents pick up gifts from The Salvation Army site they applied at,” said Wang. “Families sign up for angel tree program through one of five Salvation Army sites; Maplewood Corps, Euclid Corps, Temple Corps, Gateway Corps or Family Haven. On the application, parents identify the toy preferences for their child.” People looking to help a needy child through the Angel Tree program can do so through the Salvation Army division

headquarters by calling the Christmas receptionist at 314-646-3159. Angels are also available at South County Mall. The Adopt-A-Family program is aimed at helping families that have dealt with a major crisis during the past year. “Families are nominated by various social service agencies because the family has had a significant challenge throughout the year (illness, fire, layoff, etc) and donors are matched to families to purchase gifts for the family,” said Wang. “Gifts are brought to The Salvation Army and families pick up the gifts at our divisional headquarters.” The final program, Toy Town, allows needy families to directly pick out toys for their children from a collection of donated toys. “Families also receive a food voucher for their Christmas meal,” said Wang. He said this year 3,000 children will be helped through the Angel Tree program, 2,000 families will be helped through Toy Town, and 150 families are up for adoption through the Adopt-A-Family program. “130 organizations will be assisted with Toys for Tots gifts representing over 16,000 children,” said Wang. “We will also provide 1,000 families without children with a grocery store voucher to purchase items for their holiday meal.” Wang said the organization’s ability to help so many people during the Christ-

mas holiday was due to key partnerships with some of St. Louis’ largest corporations and small businesses. He said hundreds of volunteers were also key to the success of the organization’s Christmas support each year. “We have several hundreds of volunteers which include individuals and corporations that are helping at our warehouse sorting and bagging toys, Angel Tree sponsors which provide a child with toys for Christmas, food pantry helpers and bell ringers,” said Wang. “ See SALVATION ARMY page 2

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Entrepreneurial Contest winner

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Movie: To spoil or not to spoil, that is the question 16 FREE Online Subscription at mycnews.com

Around Town Vol. 95 No. 50

In This Issue... Town 3 Around Florissant mourns loss of

former city council member and more.

7 Business Staybridge Suites opens in Maryland Heights and more.

8 School Hazelwood School District administrator receives Project Lead the Way award and more.

10 Sports Local sports with Gary B. & Play 11 Learn Featuring recipe and crossword.

12 What’s Happening 14 Classifieds 16 Movie To spoil or not to spoil, that is the question

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

December 14, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

SALVATION ARMY from cover He noted that bell ringers are especially important, saying that a manned donation kettle can bring in around $30 in donations per hour. Those interested in volunteering as a bell ringer should contact Volunteer Manager Shawndell Williams at 314-646-3166. But all of the work, from the time spent in the cold by bell ringers, to the money spent by generous donors shopping for an “angel” is worth it when it brings smiles, or tears, to the faces of those families who are helped through the program. “Last year through the Adopt-A-Family program we had a family of six that lost many of their belongings due to a bed bug infestation,” said Wang. “The caseworker that submitted their story wrote that the kids were sleeping on blow-up mattresses on the floor and had to discard many of their belongings. Through the generous donors of the Adopt-A-Family program, this family received five mattresses and box springs along with a two bedroom sets for the children in addition to gift items for the children and the parents. The couple was so overwhelmed by the generosity that they stood in our parking lot and cried and all of the staff present cried along with them. It was an honor to see their

holiday wish come true and know that people in our community wanted the children and parents to have comfortable beds to sleep on for the holidays.” If you would like to donate to the Salvation Army’s Christmas efforts you can do so by visiting stlsalvationarmy.org and clicking on “Ways to give,” calling 1-800-Sal-ARMY, or texting “TREEOFLIGHTS” to 41444.

COMMUNITY VOICES Giving our children a shot at success By Orvin Kimbrough For years I was a Chicago Bulls fan. Their legendary coach Phil Jackson perfected the Triangle, arguably the single most dominant offensive strategy of the past 20 years. What always amazed me in watching games unfold was the tension between the individual talent of players and their need to also leverage the system. The Chicago Bulls needed both to win, and so do ordinary people. We need individual talent and a system that works with and for us. Our country and region have long engaged in discussions related to poverty and inequality that include – yet extend beyond – the traditional lens of race. These conversations have illustrated that inequality is not simply a race issue. In “Our Kids: the American Dream in Crisis” social scientist Robert Putnam argues that what African Americans experienced in the 60s and 70s is what white

Americans and others are now facing – job loss and the instability that it creates within a traditional family structure and community. And, as we know from looking at small towns and big cities who are without work and hopefulness, the same maladies in different forms creep in. The future of our region and nation will be tied to our ability to compete on a world stage. In order to do that, we have to champion the potential of all our children in rural, suburban and urban areas. The quality of our education will, by default, pick winners and losers. Our future also will be built around our ability to be entrepreneurial, enterprising and empowered. We must foster in all young people the ability to think critically and the will to convert mountains into movements. In order to make this possibility a reality, we need more business leaders to

place this audacious goal on their shoulders. We need a few who will champion this goal publicly and generate more support and public will for child wellbeing, education and good jobs. Absent the support of our business community who are known for prioritizing and driving results – I fear we will fall short of our objective. There is talent in our neighborhoods and towns – let’s create a system that gives them a shot at success. Orvin Kimbrough is President and CEO of United Way of Greater St. Louis. Follow his blog at http://reimaginingourfuture.org/ 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.

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www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • December 14, 2016

The 19th Annual Christmas in Old Town event enjoyed by an overflowing crowd

Around Town Check out our

Home & Garden Section in Classifieds page 15

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Photo courtesy city of Florissant 2016 Valley of Flowers Queen Katie Wissler (right) stands next to Florissant Mayor Thomas Schneider and the rest of her court at the Christmas in Old Town tree lighting ceremony on Dec. 3.

The City of Florissant and Old Town Partners had another festive Christmas in Old Town event and tree lighting ceremony on Dec. 3 to officially start the holiday season. The fun began at 2 p.m. at city hall, with Santa, hot chocolate, face painting, cookie decorating, story book reading, crafts by the St. Louis County Library and Mrs. Claus creating balloon art. The event was very well attended.

The tree lighting ceremony began at 5 p.m. with Florissant Mayor Thomas Schneider wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year on behalf of the administration, Chief Lowery, city council and Judge Boyle. The 2016 Valley of Flowers Queen Katie Wissler introduced her court and then switched on the lights. The Florissant Barber Shoppers then led the gathering in Christmas carols.

Florissant mourns loss of former city council member, police officer Anton H. “Tony” Brockmeyer, a former member of the Florissant City Council as well as a former Florissant police officer and editor of the Florissant Valley Reporter newspaper, died Nov. 28 at age 77. Mr. Brockmeyer, a resident of St. Charles, was born and raised and lived for most of his life in Florissant. “We are saddened by the news of Tony’s passing,” said Florissant Mayor Thomas P. Schneider. “For decades Tony was a driving force in the development of Florissant into the largest municipality in St. Louis County and one of the largest cities in the state of Missouri. He selflessly gave his time and talents in many capacities, as police officer, newspaper editor and city council member, to make Florissant a wonderful place to live, work and raise a family.” Brockmeyer, a veteran of the United States Air Force, was born in a home on St. Ferdinand Street just south of St. Francois in 1939, the same year the Village of St. Ferdinand, which was founded in 1786, became known as the city of Florissant. His parents, who worked as a barber and waitress respectively, had seven children including Mr. Brockmeyer, who attended St. Ferdinand School in Old Town. Brockmeyer was hired at age 18 as a dispatcher for the Florissant Police Department. A lifelong photographer, he recalled in “A Place Called Florissant,” a special edition of the Florissant Valley Reporter published in Spring 2014, that the most unusual photo he had ever taken was when he was assisting evidence officer Sgt. Bill Fuess. He met former Police Chief Tom Walsh in a home on Washington at St. Charles, where he saw the body of a young man, who lived alone and had suffered from seizures, completely encased in ice caused by a burst water pipe. During his tenure with the Florissant Police Department, Brockmeyer was appointed by former mayor James J. Eagan to fill the unexpired

term of Ward 2 City Councilman John Chunn, who had passed away. He was subsequently elected to two additional terms before retiring from the city council. While serving on the city council, Brockmeyer was instrumental in several notable achievements. With the help of former U.S. Rep. William Hungate (D-Mo) and the Metropolitan Sewer District he was able to secure the nation’s first federal storm water grant. Because of that grant, the Daniel Boone creek in Florissant was concreted on both sides and bottom, eradicating a local neighborhood of rats that had been coming out of the creek into residential yards. When the city decided to build a new community center at the intersection of Parker and Waterford Roads, Brockmeyer joined three other city councilmen in demanding that a second community center be built as well north of Lindbergh Blvd. As a result, the city constructed both the James J. Eagan Community Center at Parker and Waterford and the John F. Kennedy Community Center in Koch Park. Brockmeyer also was instrumental in the construction of the city’s present-day city hall along with the other members of the city council. The dedication plaque is located on the wall just inside the entry door to the main floor of city hall. Brockmeyer also worked in the newspaper business for the Florissant Valley Reporter before purchasing the O’Fallon St. Peters Times. Later he purchased the rights to the Florissant Valley Reporter and started the First Capitol News in St. Charles. At the time of his death Brockmeyer was researcher, photographer and editor of the Florissant Valley Reporter, producing special editions only. Brockmeyer is survived by his wife Pat, children Terri and Chris and grandson Karston.

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Around Town

December 14, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Moore On Life

By Cindy Moore

Think outside the box Getting ahead of the Christmas rush is always a good idea, that’s why I put my tree up in November. My husband thinks it’s annoying. “Why are you putting the tree up so soon it’s not even Thanksgiving?” he yammered. “Excuse me,” I said. “But, according to the stores, I’m late. They had their holiday stuff up before Labor Day. They were mailing me Black Friday flyers while it was still Green Monday.” I explained that more importantly, decorating early gave me another full week in the month to do that other important Christmas task – mailing packages. Which is my favorite…not! I should have never allowed any of my kids move out of state. Correction, they could go as far away as they wanted without taking the grandbabies. I should have made them sign a contract while they were young and impressionable. It would state that if they ended up moving away, any future offspring would stay behind with me. Of course, I would have added an addendum that they could visit their children every other month and twice during summer vacation…I’m not a brute! So because of their foolish choices about accepting lucrative jobs and bringing in a stupid paycheck, I am forced to mail their Christmas presents out in bulk. It was easier when it was just them and a spouse, but now the g-babies are being aimed and spit out at me faster than a loaded tennis ball machine. I can’t keep their names straight let alone their sizes, ages and sexes…OY! Last year, I spent two days in a mountain of mess separating and wrapping and trying to fit boxes, bags and sacks Jenga-style into mailing containers. (Since then, two more babies have been added to the mix which means more shop-

ping, more sizes and more disremembering.) Amid the clutter and chaos, the cats would jump in the boxes and shred wrapping paper and ribbons as I kept losing scissors and would run out of tape and bows and misplace my pens. I sent my husband out to buy more. He complained until I threatened to box him up and FedEx him overnight to Norway. After Christmas, my kids called to thank us for the gifts. One said, “I think you mailed us the wrong presents. They were all girl things. Remember, we just have boys. But it worked out, they’ve enjoyed pulling off the Barbie heads and chucking them at each other like hand grenades.” From another, “Are you missing some items, because we found four pair of scissors, three rolls of tape, a bag of bows and two pens inside our box? But the kids love the cat you mailed. Fortunately, he survived on that fruitcake you sent along. Wasn’t that the one we sent you last year?” I quickly changed the subject. Of course, it was the one that we have been regifting for the last ten years. Good thing it finally found its purpose. So this year, two cheery words keep crossing my mind…Merry Christmas? Not hardly. Gift cards! Cindy Moore is the mother of three superlative kids, servant of two self-indulgent felines and wife to one nifty husband. Her ficticious occupation? Archeological Humorist: someone who unearths absurdity and hilarity in strange and unusual places including public restrooms, the lint filter, and church meetings. Most recently, she excavated a find in her neighbor’s bird feeder. The opinions expressed in this column are Cindy Moore’s alone and do not reflect the opinion of the owners or staff of Community News.

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www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • December 14, 2016

Around Town

Hazelwood Police stepping up efforts to look out for drunk drivers and keep roads safe This holiday season, Hazelwood police officers will be out looking for drunk drivers as part of a special year-end Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over enforcement mobilization. “Beginning Dec. 16 and continuing into the New Year, you will see stepped up enforcement watching closely for anyone who is driving impaired,” said Chief Gregg Hall. “We want to keep our roads safe for holiday travelers, so we will have zero tolerance for drunk driving. Our enforcement officers will include a DWI sobriety checkpoint, as well as saturation patrols which will target impaired drivers.” From 2011-2015, 14,034 people nationwide have lost their lives in motor vehicle traffic accidents during the month of December, and 28 percent (3,983) died in a crash that involved a driver with a BAC Photo courtesy city of Hazelwood of .08 or higher. “This ought to be the ‘most wonderful time of the year,’ so we will This holiday season, Hazelwood police officers will be out looking for drunk drivers as part of a special year-end Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over do what it takes to help save lives by keeping our roads safe,” said enforcement mobilization. Chief Hall. “If you choose to drive impaired, not only will you risk your safety, and that of others, but you will also face the legal consequences.” work. But the ultimate cost of drunk driving is causing a traffic crash that injuries and Drunk driving offenders often serve jail time, lose their driver’s license, are charged kills. higher insurance rates, and pay dozens of other unanticipated expenses ranging from Remember, it is never safe to drink and drive. Hazelwood police officers will be attorney fees, court costs, car towing and repairs, and lost wages due to time off from looking for drunk drivers. Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.

Hazelwood teacher wins Missouri High School Science Teacher of the Year award Dr. Jennifer Bolla, physics teacher at Hazelwood East High School, has been named the Missouri High School Science Teacher of the Year. Bolla has been teaching for 26 years, 25 of those at East High. “I am extremely honored to be named Missouri’s High School Science Teacher of the Year,” said Bolla. “It’s really humbling to have the respect of your peers and to be recognized for what you do on a daily basis. We all work so hard and it’s nice to have your individual contributions recognized.” Bolla said that she decided to become a teacher because of a calling she felt while working previous jobs. “I was not originally going to be a science teacher,” said Bolla. “I wanted to be a physical therapist. I majored in Biology and after graduation while working at multiple jobs in the area and helping my mother get her bachelor’s degree, I realized that I had a desire to be a teacher.” Bolla received a Bachelor’s of Arts in Biology from the University of Missouri – St. Louis (UMSL) and her Certification in Teaching at UMSL. She then went on to receive a Masters in Secondary School Administration from UMSL and her Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from St. Louis University.

Christmas tree and lights disposal program offered in Florissant Meridian Waste Solutions, Inc. will once again offer the “Christmas Tree Disposal” program to Florissant residents having real Christmas trees. Also the city’s health department will be accepting Christmas tree lights for recycling purposes from residents as well. Residents can dispose of their Christmas lights for recycling in St. Ferdinand Park near the Health Department Building until Jan. 8, 2017. The Christmas tree disposal program will include curbside pickup of real Christmas trees during the holiday season and go through the month of January. Meridian Waste Solutions, Inc. will be providing this service free of charge to any Florissant resident regardless of their having weekly yard waste service. Any Florissant resident wishing to take advantage of this free service must place their tree at their curb on the day of the week that yard waste pick-up is normally provided in their neighborhood. Trees must be free of all contaminants, such as garland, tinsel, lights and ornaments. For additional information or questions, call the Florissant Health Department at 314-839-7654 or Meridian Waste Solutions, Inc. at 314-291-3131

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Around Town

December 14, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Hazelwood City Council candidacy filing opens Persons interested in filing as candidates for election to the Hazelwood City Council for Wards 2, 4, 6, or 8 may obtain nominating petitions from City Clerk Christine Thomas, at Hazelwood City Hall at 415 Elm Grove Lane. Positions to be filled at the election on April 4, 2017 are for three-year terms. Candidates must be at least 21 years of age, a registered voter, a resident of the city for at least two years immediately prior to the election

and a resident of the ward for which the office is sought. Nominating petitions shall be signed by no less than 25 and no more than 50 registered voters eligible to vote for the candidate. These petitions must then be filed with the city clerk. Filing for candidacy closes on Jan. 17, 2017, at 5 p.m. For further information, please contact City Clerk Christine Thomas at 314-513-5020.

FFSD Board of Education candidate filing begins

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Individuals wishing to file a Declaration of Candidacy in the 2017 Board of Education election may now do so. The three-year terms of current board members Dr. Donna PauletteThurman, Robert Chabot, and Keith Brown will expire in April 2017. Declarations of Candidacy may be picked up in the Office of the Superintendent at 1005 Waterford Drive in Florissant from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on days the district is open. Filing closes at 5 p.m. Jan. 17, 2017. District offices will be closed Dec. 22 through Jan. 4, and on Jan. 16. The annual election for the Board of Education is April

4, 2017. Individuals wishing to file for candidacy for the Board of Education must be: • A citizen of the United States • At least 24 years old • A resident taxpayer of the school district • A resident of the state of Missouri for at least one year In addition, the candidate must follow these procedures: • File a declaration of candidacy • Line up for filing pursuant to district Policy 4013

FFSD purchases building to house new STEAM academy

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Photo courtesy Ferguson-Florissant School District This architectural rendering is the outside of the new Ferguson-Florissant School District STEAM academy.

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In April 2015 voters in the Ferguson-Florissant School District overwhelmingly approved Prop I, a $31 million no-tax increase bond measure which led the way for a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) academy for students. During his annual State of the District report, Dr. Joseph Davis, superintendent, announced property has been purchased and plans are underway to have students attending the new STEAM academy in August 2017. The property is located at 8855 Dunn Rd. in Hazelwood. It is within the boundaries of the Ferguson-Florissant district and formerly housed the offices of United Pentecostal Church International. The building, which includes two residential homes and a billboard that can be used by the district or leased to advertisers, was listed as $6 million. However, after inspections and strategic negotiations, it was purchased for $3.6 million. “The architects at TRi have produced a design that transforms the exterior of the building to a much more modern look while allowing the large majority of the funds set aside for STEAM education from Prop I to be invested on the interior,” said Davis as architectural renderings of the new school were unveiled. “The rough sketch you see here is a result of researching best designs and practices at STEM/STEAM schools across the country and will provide the space our students need to excel in each of those

areas.” The first class of students in the STEAM academy will be sixth graders. Eventually, seventh and eighth grade students will be added. Also housed in the building will be second-througheighth-grade students who are in the district’s PROBE program for gifted students. Sixththrough-eighth-grade students will attend PROBE full time, while second-through-fifthgrade-PROBE students will attend one day each week and the remaining days in their home school. Sixth grade students began attending PROBE on a full-time basis at the beginning of this school year. The district will sell $5 million of leasehold revenue bonds, which will pay for the price of the building over the next 20 years. Six million dollars of its $31 million approved bond sale will be used to renovate the first floor of the building and warehouse into the STEAM academy, as stated in the original Prop I measure to sell bonds. “This is going to be a busy and exciting year as we prepare, and we will share more information and continue to seek your input,” Davis told the State of the District audience. Parents and other district stakeholders will have the opportunity to provide their input on the project during a town hall forum scheduled for 7 p.m. Jan. 17 in the Little Theatre of McCluer North High School at 705 Waterford Dr.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • December 14, 2016

Vantage Credit Union announces 2016 Ready to Launch Entrepreneurial Contest winner

Business

Delmar Gardens North employees receive VOYCE caregiver award

Delmar Gardens North Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Center employees Brenda Roberts, Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), and Kim Riley, cook’s assistant, have been honored with the prestigious VOYCE Annual Caregiver Award. VOYCE recognized staff who demonstrate excellence and embody the voice of compassion in person-centered care. Since 1989, Roberts has devoted her life to caring for others as a CNA. When she decided to change the course of her career in 2000 to join Delmar Gardens North, she was looking for something more. Brenda possesses an innate desire to care for the elderly. “Her life’s passion flourished within Submitted photos the Delmar Gardens Family’s philoso- Delmar Gardens North Skilled phy of love, care and understanding. Nursing & Rehabilitation Center Brenda is the epitome of this philoso- employees Brenda Roberts (top), phy before, during and after her shift, Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), a true blessing to us and our dear resi- and Kim Riley, cook’s assistant, Submitted photo dents,” said Cathy Bono, Administrator have been honored with the pres(From left) Business partners Michael Kelly and Lorenzo Parks stand together at an awards night party. tigious VOYCE Annual Caregiver of Delmar Gardens North. Award. Vantage Credit Union announced its Ready to PreVue, the company Parks and Michael Kelly For over 15 years, Riley has baked Launch Entrepreneurial Winner, Lorenzo Parks, are developing, stemmed from watching Peri- and cooked her way into the hearts of residents at Delmar Gardens at a party in his honor Nov. 14 at TRex – St. Louis. scope and actively using eCommerce activities to North. Her perfect attendance record, her intuition and the relaParks received a $1,000 cash prize and a business make money while still in college. tionships she has formed with the residents helps her deliver care prize pack from Vantage Credit Union, along with “My dad is a used car salesmen and I wanted and service for meals, special diets or requests, late-night cravings over five hours of mentorship from local partners, to give people in the marketplace an opportunity and special treats. co-working space, and a membership to local to view a product through a 360-degree live video “Kim knows that food is the universal language and complements chambers of commerce. experience before making a purchase. We’re still it nicely with her loving demeanor and friendly smile,” said Bono. “It still feels surreal,” Parks responded when in the developmental stage creating the app and “It is inspiring to honor these people who give of themselves asked how he felt about winning. “I’m definitely have run across some challenges. But winning this and make a difference in the lives of those they care for in longprize will help us get closer to our goal.” excited. I was hopeful that I’d receive a call.” term care,” said Mary Lynn Faunda Donovan, Executive Director To participate in the contest, interested appli“Lorenzo and Michael are young entrepreneurs of VOYCE. “Each of the nominees know all too well treating those cants had to complete an online entry form at vcu. who have the knowledge, skill set, work ethic and in their care with dignity, respect and compassion does more than com/ready-to-launch, include a link to a current passion to take their company to the next level provide good service; it nourishes the soul and uplifts the spirit.” or recent crowd-funding project or an existing and beyond,” commented Kenneth DeShields, business website, and create a video demonstrat- Social Media Specialist for Vantage Credit Union. ing their vision for their business and explaining “We’re excited for them and will be cheering them why they thought they should win the contest. on their journey.”

Staybridge Suites opens in Maryland Heights

A $16 million Staybridge Suites recently opened at 25 Progress Parkway in Maryland Heights.

A $16 million Staybridge Suites recently opened at 25 Progress Parkway in Maryland Heights. The 122-room all-suites hotel will be managed by Midas Hospitality, a premier hotel management group. The hotel was built by Midas Hospitality’s sister company MC Hotel Construction, a general contractor specializing in new hotel construction and renovations. Staybridge Suites offers both one and two bedroom suites for its guests. The hotel provides fully equipped kitchens, state-of-the-art fitness center, an indoor swimming pool and plenty of amenities including free laundry facilities and

Submitted photo

complimentary breakfast. “With the full kitchens and all-suites layout, the Staybridge Suites-Maryland Heights is perfect for the extended stay and transient guest visiting the Maryland Heights/Westport Plaza area,” said Kurt Furlong, Midas Hospitality’s Principal and Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “The hotel is the epitome of convenience with easy access to Interstates 70 and 270. The hotel’s location sits proximate to the many nearby corporations including the expansive Edward Jones’ North Campus.”

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School

December 14, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Larimore third graders give to help others Check out our

Home & Garden Section in Classifieds page 15

Third grade students at Larimore Elementary, in the Hazelwood School District, recently donated multiple boxes of food and turkeys for the Helping Hands Food Pantry located at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church. Nakeesha Jenkins, third grade teacher at Larimore, and her students spent over a month collecting food items for the food pantry. Parents, family members, community members and many others helped to donate food. Throughout the month, students anxiously counted the food and made a graph detailing the items and the amount collected. The students

were eager to help families in need in their community. At the end of the month, students collected mac ‘n cheese, stuffing, can goods, cake mix, frosting, cranberry sauce, bags of beans, and all the trimmings for a holiday meal. In addition, the students were able to donate four turkeys to the food pantry. The turkeys were donated from the Spanish Lake Super Market. “The students wanted to donate food to the food pantry because they not only wanted to give back to their community, but to help families in need this holiday season,” said Jenkins.

Hazelwood West student selected for the St. Louis All-Suburban Honor Band Sarah Merlenbach, a Hazelwood West High School student, was recently selected for the St. Louis Suburban Music Educators Association Concert Band (SLSMEA). Merlenbach will play the flute during the Jan. 2017 performance at Kirkwood High School. The Saint Louis Suburban Music Educators Association Concert Band is an auditioned group of high school students from the St. Louis area. Students who are selected for the band are eligible to audition for the Missouri High School All-State Band in Columbia, Missouri.

“I am very proud of Sarah and the hard work and effort that she put into the audition,” said Aaron Jackson, West High School band director. “Sarah is ready to take on the next challenge of auditioning for the All-State Band. This is quite an honor since only 11 flutes were chosen.” The students auditioned on prepared music from the All-State Band set list and were required to play musical scales from memory. Scores are tabulated and ranked in order. Merlenbach will perform at Kirkwood High School on Jan. 8, 2017 at 4:15 p.m.

Hazelwood School District administrator receives Project Lead the Way award www.dschuster.com

Photo courtesy Hazelwood School Matt McClellan, special areas curriculum coordinator for the Hazelwood School District, was recently awarded the Missouri Project Lead the Way Outstanding Administrator of the Year award.

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Matt McClellan, special areas curriculum coordinator for the Hazelwood School District (HSD), was recently awarded the Missouri Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Outstanding Administrator of the Year award. McClellan was presented this award during the annual Missouri PLTW State Conference and awards banquet. McClellan was one of seven awardees to be recognized during the conference in Wentzville. During the conference, McClellan met with Missouri Governor Jay Nixon. In addition to the award, McClellan also received an Apple iPad compliments of Missouri PLTW. Christina Hughes, science coordinator for HSD and colleague of McClellan, nominated him to receive this prestigious award. “It was my absolute pleasure to nominate Matt McClellan for the PLTW award,” said Hughes. “He works incredibly hard to ensure the integrity of every PLTW program in the district. From

arranging professional development to strengthening teachers’ approach to PLTW, to providing time for teachers to brainstorm recruitment efforts. He is integral to ensuring the sustainability and longevity of PLTW in HSD.” Holly Putnam, director for curriculum in HSD was thrilled to learn of this award McClellan received. “The Administrator of the Year honor is awarded to the administrator who facilitates the implementation of Project Lead the Way coursework in their district to promote student advancement in the fields of Biomedical Sciences, Computer Science and Engineering.” “Matt’s continuous commitment and dedication to providing Hazelwood students with coursework opportunities in high-demand career fields was publically recognized by the Governor and I am both thrilled and proud of his accomplishment,” she said.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • December 14, 2016

School

Two McNair fifth graders receive a ride to school courtesy of the Hazelwood Fire Department

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Photo courtesy Hazelwood School District Chantrel Clayton and Kenedee Rainbolt won the annual fire safety essay contest sponsored by the Hazelwood Fire Protection District. The winners of the contest earned a special ride to school on a fire truck.

Usually the presence of a fire truck on a school campus is not a good thing. However, with lights flashing, the big red fire truck pulled into the parking lot of McNair Elementary, in the Hazelwood School District, with two students, Chantrel Clayton and Kenedee Rainbolt onboard. Clayton and Rainbolt won the annual fire safety essay contest sponsored by the Hazelwood Fire Protection District. The winners of the contest earned a special ride to school on a fire truck. The two students, who are both in Shannon Drake’s fifth grade classroom, enjoyed their ride to school. Both said this was the best Monday that they ever had.

When asked to describe what riding on a fire truck was like, Clayton said, it was really cool and loud! “Riding on the fire truck was a lot of fun and all of the gear is really cool,” she said. “I have never been on a fire truck, this is great!” This is the third year that McNair Elementary has participated in the fire safety essay contest. McNair Principal Dr. Jennifer Roper was happy to see some community members out at the event. “This is really wonderful,” she said. “I love to see our students be recognized, especially by the greater Hazelwood community and the fire department.”

Two Hazelwood teachers visit Kennedy Space Center thanks to grant Amanda Davison, third grade teacher at Garrett Elementary, and Stephanie Knight, third grade teacher at Cold Water Elementary, both schools in the Hazelwood School District (HSD), recently visited the Kennedy Space Center as part of the Lean into Learning Grant they received. Davison and Knight were awarded the Lean into Learning Grant from the Innovative Technology Education Fund (ITEF) last August. The grant covered four days of travel expenses for both Davison and Knight. In addition to the Project Lead the Way (PLTW) training they received, Davison and Knight had lunch with an astronaut, received personal tours of the center and launch pads and much more. “I am so proud of Stephanie and Amanda,” said Dr. Christa Warner, HSD assistant superintendent of elementary schools. “Grant opportunities like this allow our teachers to receive hands-on training and allow our students to receive firsthand lessons on space flight and the engineering.” During their visit, Davison and Knight toured the Apollo 8 Center, Mission to Mars exploration center, the rocket garden and the Atlantis Center which houses the retired Space Shuttle Atlantis. In addition, Davison and Knight enjoyed lunch with Apollo 15 Astronaut Al Worden. During the lunch, Worden discussed the Apollo 15 mission, answered questions and posed for a photo. Davison and Knight already have multiple lesson ideas for their students and are excited to share what they learned. “One of the lesson plans that I am thinking about is to have a Boeing engineer and/or pilot come visit my class to share the process of flight and why PLTW is an important aspect of their future,” said Knight. “Everyone at the Kennedy Space Center was so nice and was willing to sit down and talk with us and answer not only our questions, but questions that students wrote for us to ask. We will be able to share with our students about the science of flight,

www.byerlyrv.com

Photo courtesy Hazelwood School District Hazelwood elementary school teachers Amanda Davison (left) and Stephanie Knight (right) met with Apollo 15 Astronaut Al Worden (center) at the Kennedy Space Center as a part of the Lean into Learning Grant they received.

forces in motion, space including moon phases, and interesting facts about different rockets that have been used.” “This grant would not have been possible if ITEF didn’t sponsor us and I have to thank them for giving us this once in a lifetime opportunity,” said Knight ITEF is a Missouri-based charitable nonprofit foundation that supports innovation in education by funding advanced technology in the classrooms of public, private, parochial and charter schools in the greater St. Louis area.

www.ssmhealth.com/orthopedics

Sports

Why do you read the Community News?

December 14, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

“A good amount of coverage on a multitude of issues.” ~Reader Survey, 2016

Pick up one of our four publications at a newsstand near you, or visit us online. www.mycnews.com

I will be broadcasting the “STL Health and Wellness LIVE” show every Saturday from 9-11 am on 590 The Fan and 590TheFan.com

Sports you see with Gary B... Rascals add familiar faces to club The River City Rascals have expanded their roster with signings at a rapid pace by inking eight more contract extensions in the last month, making it 16 players returning from the 2016 Frontier League Championship runner-up. Manager Steve Brook, in his eighth year, has also added a pair of position players who will be getting their first taste of Frontier League baseball in the name of outfielder Taylor Love and shortstop Ian Yetsko. Others include three-time Frontier League All-Star catcher Josh Ludy returning as he begins his fourth goaround with the club and second as a playercoach. In his Rascals career, Ludy has held a .297 average while smacking 35 home runs and driving in 157 runs during 252 games. The lone player on the Rascals who has played more seasons with the club than Ludy is veteran right-handed pitcher Nick Kennedy. Kennedy has put on a Rascals uniform every summer since 2012 and is coming off a season where he has held an ERA under 3.00 for the third time in his career. Other pitchers that Brook has brought back for the 2017 season include starting righthander Tim Koons, lefty Dan Ludwig and back end of the bullpen guys Skylar Hunter and Shane Street. The final returning position player Brook has brought back over the past month is second baseman Jason Merjano. The experienced infielder played in 91 games and hit .291 with five home runs and 51 RBI. His 51 RBI is just one of the categories Merjano led the team in along with 354 at-bats, 22 doubles and 33 multi-hit games. * No scorecard needed for these guys Lindenwood gets new football coach Lindenwood University Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Brad Wachler announced that Jed Stugart will be the school’s new head

www.mycnews.com | 636-379-1775 info@mycnews.com

football coach. Stugart comes to St. Charles after seven seasons at NCAA Division II University of Sioux Falls. Stugart begins his position at Lindenwood immediately. For more information, go to www.LindenwoodLions. com * Thanks to Andrew P. Morris of Lindenwood Sports Information for the information Ambush wins first game of season The St. Louis Ambush are a professional indoor soccer team that play in the Major Arena Soccer League (MASL) with their home games at the Family Arena in St. Charles. The Ambush pulled off their first win of the season in dramatic fashion, staging a comefrom-behind 8-6 win over the Florida Tropics Friday night at the Family Arena. The contest did not begin the way head coach Tony Glavin drew it up, as the home team was trailing 5-2 at halftime. “Tony had some loud words of wisdom (at halftime),” said goalkeeper Casey Clark, who posted his first professional win in goal. “I wish I could take the credit,” Glavin said, “but I asked the players to believe in themselves and play like I knew they could, and I’m proud of their effort.” The team fought back to start the last period tied 5-5. As the Tropics fought back to cut the Ambush lead to 7-6, Stefan St. Louis scored an emptynetter at 14:36 to give the Ambush an insurance goal that would stick until the clock hit zero and the first win of the season was in the books. For more information go to www.STLAmbush.com * Only the beginning Gary Baute, a St. Louis native, has hosted many radio shows from Health to Sports to Baby Boomer news. He was the EMCEE of the River City Rascals and St. Louis Swarm basketball team inaugural seasons and broadcasting for the indoor football teams over a decade. Has been writing sports since 1999 for the paper.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • December 14, 2016

Recipe: Holly, jolly recipes for merry mornings This holiday season, make your mornings merry and savor time with loved ones visiting from near and far with festive recipes like Christmas Tree Waffles and Overnight Cinnamon Roll Casserole. “You don’t have to get up early to impress guests with a holiday breakfast,” said Chef Kevan Vetter of the McCormick Kitchens. “Take waffles, simply add green food color to the batter then

Learn & Play

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

dust with powdered sugar ‘snow’ to resemble Christmas trees. Or prepare a cinnamon roll casserole the night before. Soak cut-up challah bread in milk and cinnamon overnight, bake until golden in the morning. Finish off with a drizzle of cream cheese frosting.” For more Christmas tips and recipes, find McCormick on Pinterest and Facebook, and visit McCormick.com.

Overnight Cinnamon Roll Casserole Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 25 minutes | Servings: 12

I ngredients: 12 eggs 1 1/2 cups plus 3 tablespoons milk, divided 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon, divided 5 teaspoons pure vanilla extract, divided 1/4 teaspoon baking powder 1 loaf challah or brioche bread, cubed 1/4 cup butter, melted 1/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar 1/2 cup whipped cream cheese 3 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar Directions: Mix eggs, 1 1/2 cups of milk, 1 tablespoon of cinnamon, 3 teaspoons of vanilla and baking powder in large bowl with wire whisk until well blended. Add bread cubes; toss to coat well. Pour into 13x9-inch baking dish sprayed with no stick cooking spray. Cover. Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight. Preheat oven to 350°F. Remove casserole from refrigerator. Mix melted butter, brown sugar and remaining 1 tablespoon cinnamon in small bowl until well blended. Drizzle over casserole. Let stand 10 to

See solution on page 13

15 minutes. Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown. Let stand 5 minutes before serving. Meanwhile, mix cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar and remaining 2 teaspoons vanilla in small bowl until smooth. Slowly stir in remaining 3 tablespoons milk. Drizzle over casserole before serving.

Christmas Tree Waffles Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Ingredients: 2 cups waffle mix 1 1/3 cups milk 1 egg 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract 15 drops green food color confectioners’ sugar mini candy-coated chocolate pieces Directions: Preheat round waffle iron. Spray with no stick cooking spray. Mix waffle mix, milk, egg, vegetable oil, vanilla and

food coloring until blended. Pour about 1/3 cup of batter onto center of hot waffle iron. Close lid. Cook about 5 minutes or until no longer steaming. Carefully remove waffle. Repeat with remaining batter. Break each waffle into 4 triangles. Layer 3 triangles on a serving plate to resemble a Christmas tree. Sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar. Use candy-coated pieces to decorate tree as ornaments.

Crossword Puzzle – Theme: Winter Fun ACROSS 1. *e.g. “A Winter’s Tale” by Mark Helprin 6. Bag in Paris 9. *Cold-weather lip trouble 13. Speak one’s mind 14. “What?” 15. What phoenix did 16. Used a lot in sports 17. ____ of Aquarius 18. Misrepresent 19. *Troika ride 21. *Has two eyes made of coal 23. Beluga yield 24. Found in a wall 25. Reggae precursor 28. Whiskey without water 30. Mother of Calcutta 35. What little kittens did with their mittens 37. Computer operating system 39. Ascetic holy Hindu 40. Hippocrates’ promise 41. Chemically induced waves, pl. 43. Good obtained illegally 44. Garment fold 46. Sandwich alternative 47. Northern freshwater fish 48. No, they don’t really crawl in one’s ear 50. Substance abuser 52. Neither 53. Type of tide 55. Jamie ____ Curtis 57. *Popular cold weather fabric 61. *Desired winter destination, pl. 64. Don McLean: “Drove my chevy to the ____” 65. *Elf on the Shelf, e.g. 67. *Remove its furniture in winter? 69. Like a Harvard building? 70. Call to Bo-peep 71. Painter Degas 72. Mrs. Lincoln’s maiden name 73. Weary traveler’s destination 74. Lofty homes DOWN 1. Us, in Mexico 2. Prefers 3. Tiny bottle 4. “C’mon in!” 5. Wound 6. Persian king

7. Precedes Sep. 8. Maiden’s “hope” storage 9. Captain’s team 10. Islet in a river 11. Half-way around the world 12. Part of a hammer 15. Residences 20. “Faster!” to a horse 22. *Roast a chest____ over an open fire 24. Cavalryman’s foot holder 25. #61 Across, sing. 26. Bear Down Under 27. In the Asteraceae family 29. Again 31. Wood file 32. Buzz Aldrin’s first name 33. Plumed military headdress 34. *Ice Angler’s drill

36. *Warm winter day occurrence 38. *Winter Holiday, for short 42. Abracadabra, e.g. 45. Preserved in a can 49. “Fancy that!” 51. Go back into business 54. Cover story 56. Horace’s poem 57. Dart 58. Prefix in levorotary 59. Like a zealous fan 60. Pauper’s permanent state 61. Bridge 62. Units of work 63. Cut and run 66. *Gingerbread creation 68. 60 mins., pl. See answers on page 13

What’s Happening

December 14, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Send your event to editor@mycnews.com and we'll print it! EVENTS Dec. 15: Letters from Santa

For a personal reply from Santa, send a self-addressed stamped envelope to: Santa c/o JFK Community Center, 315 Howdershell Road, Florissant MO 63031. Please include some personal information about the child. Santa will respond with personal letters throughout the holiday season. All letters need to be received by Dec. 15 for Santa to have enough time to reply.

Dec. 15: Free blood pressure check

Free blood pressure check takes place at Life Care Center of Florissant at 1201 Garden Plaza Dr. (off Parker Rd.) Call 831-3752 for more information.

Dec. 16: Bingo

Bingo takes place from 2 – 3 pm. at Life Care Center of Florissant at 1201 Garden Plaza Dr. (off Parker Rd.) in Florissant. Call 831-3752 for more information.

Dec. 16: Food drive

Beginning on Dec. 2 and continuing through Dec. 16 a barrel for the Sharing and Caring Food Drive will be placed at the Florissant City Hall, the James J. Eagan Center (Parker and Waterford Roads) and the JFK Community Center (Howdershell and Charbonier). All residents are encouraged to donate non-perishable and canned food donations. These donations will be given to organizations and food pantries within the city limits of Florissant. For further information, please call 314-921-4466 or 314-921-4250.

Dec. 31: Support group beginning

A PFLAG chapter in North County is starting very soon, and is looking for parents and individuals interested in getting it off the ground running. If you are interested in helping start this support group for parents of GLBT individuals and the individuals themselves contact Josh Privitt at nocopflag@gmail.com or 314-521-5694.

Dec. 31: Volunteers needed

St. Louis County is now seeking volunteers for the St. Louis County Older Resident Programs’ (CORP) 2016 tax preparation. Applications are now available to begin the pro-

cess and to sign up for the training. Volunteers will be VITA-certified and will begin volunteering at the CORP tax sites mid-January and continue through mid-April. Volunteers can choose where they would like to help out of eight sites, days, position as a tax counselor, appointment scheduler or customer greeter/intaker. Mileage reimbursement is available. Call today to get started with the volunteer application process. Interested individuals should contact Sheryl Trask at 314-615-7430 for north of I-64 locations or Kathy Paulsen at 314-6154021 for south county locations.

RECURRING EVENTS Weekdays: Food pantry volunteers needed The Harvey Kornblum Jewish Food Pantry is in need of ongoing adult volunteers to sort food, stock shelves and shop with clients. Two-to-four hour shifts are available, Monday-Friday 8:45 a.m.-3:45 p.m. To learn more or to join this fun group, contact Chelsey Banaskavich at 314-5131674 or cbanaskavich@jfcs-stl. org. Weekdays: Volunteer drivers The St. Louis County Older Resident Programs need volunteer drivers who live in St. Louis County to give a few hours during the day to provide transportation to and from doctor’s appointments for our senior residents of St. Louis County that lives near you! No weekends and mileage reimbursement is available. Call today at 314-615-4516. Mondays: A cappella singers

All men who like to sing are invited to come sing with us, The Men of Harmony. We practice every Monday night at 7 p.m. at 5500 Parker Road which is the first house on Uthe Lane. We sing four-part harmony a capella (without accompaniment ). We sing some traditional songs, as well as show tunes and more contemporary music. We do perform for the public at various functions. Persons interested can come right on in or for more information call Al at 314-9936134.

Tuesdays: Choir rehearsals

The St. Louis Chordinals, a women’s a cappella chorus, rehearse every Tuesday evening from 7 - 9:30 p.m. at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church at 12397 Natural Bridge Rd. in Bridgeton (next to the Bridgeton Government Center). For more information call Linda at 314-839-3495 or visit stlouischordinals.org.

Tuesdays: Lung cancer support group

The Lung Cancer Networking Group is open to anyone affected by lung cancer and meets at Christian Hospital at 11133 Dunn Rd. every second Tuesday of the month from 6 - 7:30 p.m. in Room 2100. No RSVP required. Christian Hospital has partnered with the Cancer Support Community of Greater St. Louis to provide this group meeting. Drop-in to the monthly meetings to discuss, ask questions and learn how others manager side effects, symptoms and the day-to-day of cancer. Connect with other care partners who are learning about cancer and how it impacts their friends and family members. Share and hear stories from others who “get it.” Discover the power of group support when you meet with a licensed facilitator, other people (family, friends, patients) affected by a cancer diagnosis.

are on Wednesday mornings beginning at 9:15 am at Florissant Church of Christ, 16460 New Halls Ferry Rd. in Florissant. If interested, please contact Shirley at 314-895-3528 for more information.

Every Wednesday: Bingo Morning at Florissant Elks Lodge #2316

Florissant Elks Lodge #2316, 16400 New Halls Ferry Rd. in Florissant. Doors at 7:30am, games begin at 9:30am. For more information, call 314.921.2316.

Bridgeton Trails Library Branch Programs:

3455 McKelvey Rd., St. Louis, 314.994.3300. Story Time: Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. 9 months to 2 yrs. Room 1 (Lap Time); Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. Ages 3–5. Room 2; Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. Ages 3–5. Room 1.

Florissant Senior Citizens’ Bingo Clubs: 314.839.7604. Every 1st Wednesday of the Month: Stroke Support Group 3-4pm, Center for Senior Renewal, Detrick Building 1st floor, 11133 Dunn Rd. For more information, contact Jamie Stevens at 314.653.5331.

Thursdays: checks

Blood

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.

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.

Every 4th Tuesday of the month: Fort Bellefontaine Memorial American Legion Post 335 meeting

Thursdays: meeting

Women’s

Tuesdays: TOPS pounds sensibly)

(Take

off

6:30pm, Fort Bellefontaine Memorial American Legion Post 335, 800 Chambers Road in Bellefontaine Neighbors. Those interested in membership are invited to attend.

Every Tuesday: Bingo Evening at Florissant Elks Lodge #2316

Doors at 4:30pm, games begin at 6pm, Florissant Elks Lodge #2316, 16400 New Halls Ferry Rd. in Florissant. For more information, call 314.921.2316.

Wednesdays: Are you interested in losing weight? Check out TOPS #361 Florissant group of supportive ladies. Meetings

pressure

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

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

Tuesdays from 2 - 4pm and Thursday from 6:30 - 8:30pm, 11645 Benham Rd., 314.741.3737

HEALTH Every Mon. & Tues.: Healthy Meal Replacement (HMR) Program Orientation

Mondays: 6–7pm Tuesdays: Noon– 1pm SSM DePaul Wellness Center. Attend a free orientation to learn: the Five Success Variables needed to lose weight, different diet options available and how important physical activity really is. Please call to register at 1.877.477.6954.

Every Monday-Friday: Evening Front Desk Volunteers Needed

4-7pm, Christian Hospital, 1225 Graham Rd. in Florissant. For more information, please contact Lee Shields at 314.653.5032.

2nd Tuesday of Every Month: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group Meeting

Meeting to be held at Sarah Care of Bridgeton Adult Day Center 11977 St. Charles Rock Road, Suite 121-124, Bridgeton, MO 63044. Join our Support Group for Mutual, Emotional Support and Education. You are not alone. For information, contact Deborah Mabrie at 314-291-5210 or Ferd Fetsch at 314-291-3021 Email: dbland@sarahcare.com ferdfetsch@ sbcglobal.net.

Tuesdays: Alcohol and Drug Information Meeting Christian Hospital Building 2, Suite 401, 6:30 – 8pm, 314.839.3171, free and open to the public.

Every third Tuesday of every month: Grief Support Group sponsored by DePaul Hospital

11:30am-1pm, Bridgeton Trails Library, 3455 McKelvey Rd. For more information, call 314.344.6873.

6:45pm, Knights of Columbus Hall, 1216 Teson Rd. in Hazelwood. For more information call 314.731.9330

Wednesdays: STEPS Schizophrenia Support Group

Every 3rd Friday of the month: Bingo

Sundays: Alcoholics mous Group 109

Last Saturdays: Writers Workshop:

Diabetes Basics:

2pm, Life Care Center of Florissant, 1201 Garden Plaza Dr. For more information, call 314.831.3752.

10am - 1:30pm, Baden Liberary, 8448 Church Rd., 314.388.2400

Sundays: Meat shoot

Come and enjoy the meat shoots at American Legion Post 444 located on 17090 Old Jamestown Road between Sinks Rd and Lindbergh starting at noon until dusk every Sunday - rain or shine. Great meat prizes awarded.

Every Sunday: Tours at Old St. Ferdinand Shrine

#1 Rue St. Francois St., Florissant, 1 – 4pm, through October. Donations accepted. Docents needed. 314.921.7582, vicray01@aol.com

Sundays: meeting

Jennings

Do-Dads

The Jennings Do-Dads hold meetings every third Sunday of the month (except June which is the second Sunday and no meeting in December) at 1 p.m. at Classics Bar & Grill at 11601 West Florissant Avenue. Those interested in membership are invited to attend. For more information visit www.jenningsdodads.org.

6:30 - 7:30pm, 314.839.3171.

Anony-

11th floor conference room at Christian Hospital, 10am, 11133 Dunn Road. 314.344.7024 for info or 314.344.7220 to enroll.

Crisis Nursery:

Committed to preventing child abuse and neglect, the Crisis Nursery provides short-term, safe havens to children, birth through age 12, whose families are faced with an emergency or crisis. Care is available year-round and serves families throughout the greater St. Charles region. 24-hour helpline: 314.768.3201. Or 636.947.0600, www. crisisnurserykids.org

Center for Senior Renewal:

Day treatment programs for older adults dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, loss and early signs of dementia, 314.653.5123.

Nutrition Education:

SSM DePaul registered dieticians can help you make sure your diet is right for you, 314.344.6157.

Christian Center:

Hospital

Recovery

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

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • December 14, 2016

Nicotine Anonymous

Nicotine Anonymous is a 12 Step Program, free and available to all seeking recovery from nicotine addiction based on principals of AA. Only requirement is a desire to stop using nicotine. Voluntary contributions are accepted. For further info call 314822-2066 or visit WWW.NicotineAnonymous.org.

Look Good…Feel Better

SSM Cancer Care at DePaul Health Center, 12303 DePaul Drive. Radiation OncologyBridgeton. Attend a great makeup session sponsored by the American Cancer Society. A licensed cosmetologist teaches a session of scarf tying, shows a parade of hats, and provides each participant with a makeup kit. Light refreshments are served. Info: 314.344.6090.

SilverSneakers Senior Wellness Program at the Maryland Heights Centre

A fun, energizing program that helps older adults take greater control of their health by encouraging physical activity and offering social events. A Silver Sneakers membership includes access to the city’s Fitness Centre with state-of-the-art fitness equipment and circuit training. Membership is available at little or no cost through your health plan. To find out if you are eligible, visit www.silversneakers.com or call 314.738.2599.

Smoking Cessation Classes:

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

SSM DePaul Wellness Center:

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

Free Mammogram Screenings:

SSM Health Care free mammogram screenings to women who have no health insurance. Appointments at 300 First Capitol Drive in St. Charles and SSM St. Joseph Hospital West, 100 Medical Plaza in Lake Saint Louis, 636.947.5617

Speaker’s Bureau:

SSM speakers available for organizations, clubs, community and church groups for up to one hour free of charge, 636.949.7159

ONGOING SUPPORT GROUPS Sundays: Support Group for Women Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse

6:30 - 8pm, 7401 Delmar Ave. in University City, 314.993.5421.

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

Third Saturdays: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group

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

Last Saturdays: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group: Mother of Good Counsel Home, 6825 Natural Bridge, St. Louis, 10:30am 314.383.4765

Last Tuesdays: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group

Missouri Veterans Home, 10600 Lewis & Clark, St. Louis, 1pm, 314.340.6389

Wednesdays: Weekly Cancer Survivor’s Support Group

H.W. Koenig Medical Building at SSM St. Joseph Hospital West, 3 - 4:30pm, free, 636.755.3034

12 Step Support Group for Women Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse: Meets in 4 locations in the metro St Louis area. Information: metrostlouissia@gmail.com.

Wednesdays: New Choices NarAnon Family Group at Zion Lutheran Church

12075 Dorsett Road, Maryland Heights, 7:30 – 9pm, www.Nar-Anon. org

Thursdays: Grief Share Support Group

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

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

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

Calcium Scoring Heart Scan Program

SSM DePaul Health Center. This program uses advanced (CT) imaging to scan the arteries around the heart and measure or score the amount of calcium present in the plaque deposits. This screening, in combination with other heart disease risk factors (high cholesterol, high blood pressure, cigarette smoking, physical inactivity, etc.) can help determine an overall picture of your current heart health and your risk for developing heart disease. Call 314.344.6030 to learn more about the heart scan program or to schedule an appointment. SSM St. Joseph Health Center & Hospital West Auxiliary Non profit organization assisting the hosp. by holding fund raisering activities, being of service to patients, families, employees & physicians and acting as good will ambassadors to community. We welcome new member. Call Barb Hutchinson 636.947.5466.

The Barnes St. Peters Hospital Auxiliary is looking for New Members If you would like to become a member please call 636.916.9664.

Gateway to Hope Program

The Gateway to Hope Program arranges care for individuals diagnosed w/breast cancer who are either uninsured or underinsured and reside in MO. Gateway to Hope serves as a breast cancer lifeline for those who do not qualify for government sponsored programs & are unable to afford treatment. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed w/breast cancer & cannot access treatment call Gateway to Hope at 314.569.1113 or www. gthstl.org.

Every Wednesday Take Pounds Sensibly Group

Off

Take Off Pounds Sensibly meets at Christ the King Lutheran Church, 414 S. Church St., St. Peters. Weigh-ins at 8:30 a.m. Business mtg at 10 a.m. Call 636.397.1727 or 636.272.4995 for more info.

Every Tues. 6:30–8 p.m. Chemical Dependency Mtg. Christian Hospital. 314.839.3171.

Every Tues.: 9–10:30 a.m. TOPS Meetings

Take Off Pounds Sensibly. John

F. Kennedy Community Center, 315 Howdershell Rd., Florissant. 314.921.7582.

Support group for men diagnosed w/ prostate cancer at any stage. Barnes St. Peters. 636.916.9947.

of Christ, 320 N. Forsyth Blvd., Clayton. Meet in Lower Level. For more information, call 314.968.3477.

Every Tues.: 5:30–6:30 p.m. Free Pilates Class for Cancer Patients & Families

3rd Tues.: 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. Grief & Loss Support Group—DePaul Hospital Share experiences of grief & loss w/ those who share similar feelings. Led by trained coordinators & Pastor David Boyle. Bridgeton Trails Library, Rm 2. 314.344.7356. Nurses & company. Flu shots avail. for small cost. 115 Piper Hill Dr., St. Peters.

ST. JOSEPH WEST HOSPITAL

Bring own mat. Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hosp., 150 Entrance Way, St. Peters. 636.921.9920.

4th Tuesday of each month: 6:30-7:30 p.m. Diabetes Support Group Hear from experts on how to better manage diabetes & enjoy a healthier life. Located at the H.W. Koenig Medical Bldg., St. Joseph Hospital West. Call 636.625.5447 for more info.

First Thurs. 10:30–11:30 a.m. Caregiver Class from BJC Home Care Services, free to public, Topics: care, stress relief, legal issues, Siteman Cancer Cntr., Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital conference rm. Info. 314-575-3983. Every Sun.: 6:30 p.m. Every Mon.: 9:30 a.m. Survivors of Incest Anonymous Meetings Women only. Sundays at Holy Communion Episcopal Church, 7601 Delmar, U. City. 314.993.5421 or 636.561.1407. Mondays in Wentzville, call 636.561.1407. 1st Thur.: 6:30–7:30 p.m. Conquer: A Support Group for Adults with Cancer Siteman Cancer Center at BarnesJewish St. Peters Hosp, 150 Entrance Way, St. Peters. 636.916.9920.

Every Tues.: 5:30–6:30 p.m. Free Pilates Class for Cancer Patients & Families Bring own mat. Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hosp., 150 Entrance Way, St. Peters. 636.921.9920. Weekly 6:30 p.m. Survivors of Incest Anonymous Mtg. 12 Step Program for Women sexually abused in childhood. At Holy Communion Episcopal Church, 7601 Delmar, University City. Lower Level. Call 314.993.5421.

4th Tuesday of each month 6:307:30 p.m.: Diabetes Support Group. Hear from experts to learn how to better manage diabetes & enjoy a healthier life. Join the group and discover how to increase circulation, relaxation, learn the myofascial effects such as increased mobility & tissue elasticity. Free. H.W. Koenig Medical Building at St. Joseph Hospital West. Register: Call 636.625.5447 Every Wednesday, 3-4:30 p.m.: Weekly Cancer Survivor’s Support Group. Join other survivors to discuss dealing emotionally w/treatments; managing anxiety, depression; sexuality; finding strength & hope; family and financial pressures; more. Free. At H.W. Koenig Medical Bldg, St. Joseph Hosp. West. Register: Call 636-639-8600

1st & 3rd Tuesdays of the month 12:30 p.m. Survivors of Incest Anonymous Mtg. 12 Step Program for Women who were sexually Abused in Childhood. Meeting held at the Samuel United Church

Every Monday, 7 - 8 p.m. Tobacco Free for Life Support Group. For those who want to quit smoking, & those who have successfully quit. Info about how to quit & find reassurance & support. Free. At St. Peters City Hall, One St. Peters Centre Blvd., 63376. Register: Call 636.947.5304 .

SUDOKU answers from page 11

CROSSWORD answers from page 11

1st Thur.: 7 p.m. Parents W/O Partners, North County Chapter General Mtg, 2435 Creve Coeur Mill Rd. 314.739.0880. 2nd Wed. 6–7:30 p.m. Talking Man to Man about Prostate Cancer

6 2016 WINNER

Volunteers Needed at Christian Hospital: Call 314.653.5032

What’s Happening

Winner of Six Awards

Missouri Press Foundation Better Newspaper Contest

Best Columnist – Humorous First Place – Joe Morice

Honorable Mention – Cindy Moore

Best Education Story First Place – Sara Hardin

Best Magazine/Alternative Publication Second Place – CrossRoads Magazine

Best News/Feature Obituary Third Place – Robert Huneke for Joe Morice Obituary

Best Military Story

Honorable Mention – Sara Hardin

December 14, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

CONSIGNMENT

HELP WANTED

NOVENA

WANTED

PRAYER TO ST. JUDE

www.climateexpress.com

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.

P.S. Thank you St. Jude, M.G.T.

SERVICES HELP WANTED

PET CEMETERY

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

www.everyonebenefits.com/GaryB

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

CALL 636-697-2414

STATEWIDE CLASSIFIEDS

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www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • December 14, 2016

CLASSIFIEDS

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

December 14, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Movie

By Steve Bryan

To spoil or not to spoil, that is the question After watching the trailer for “Passengers,” the new Chris Pratt/Jennifer Lawrence sci-fi adventure, I wanted to know more about the plot. Unfortunately, the Internet contains way too much information posted by people who have access to the original script. I read one interesting plot point before I made myself stop reading anything more. “Spoilers” like the ones I encountered are aptly named because they take away from the movie-going experience. In one memorable “Peanuts” strip, Linus was watching the classic “Citizen Kane” for the first time when big sister Lucy walked in and told him exactly what “Rosebud” was. The final panel shows Linus screaming “Augh!” and tearing his hair out. Online film reviewers such as myself are cautious about movie spoilers; half the joy of going to the movies is the shock and surprise. In 1999, some colleagues attended advance screenings of “The Sixth Sense,” telling me that the big reveal at the end is incredible. While watching it, I kept thinking about what the twist could be until it hit me halfway through the film. The rest of the story was rather anticlimactic. Ronnie Roy, my former colleague at the St. Louis Suburban Journals, is an entertaining writer who is careful with details. Still, as he

recounted to me, a reader took him to task in 1998 for revealing the boat sank during the epic film “Titanic” (true story). Sometimes, a writer simply can’t win, even when they diligently follow the rules. There also are untold shooting scripts and screenplays available online. Confidentiality agreements on the set and during press screenings don’t always work. Some people seemingly are willing to put their jobs and careers on the line to break these agreements. When I worked the press junket circuit, I signed a few agreements and was always cautioned about putting critical details in any review or feature. However, what do die-hard movie fans think about spoilers? When “The Force Awakens” came out last December, fans desperately wanted to know the parental history of Rey, the character played by Daisy Ridley. Some theories argue that, with her incred-

ible command of the Force, Luke Skywalker obviously is her father. Other websites say she is the granddaughter of Obi-Wan Kenobi. Arguably, the Internet and rabid fandom fuel this quest for information ahead of time. In the pre-digital world of 1980, “Dallas” fans waited an entire summer to find out who shot J.R. Ewing. No one involved with the TV show would really speak about it, and the excitement grew. These days, with some diligent searching, it is all too easy to find details months before a TV show or film debuts. I still believe a viewer should go into the theater with as little information as possible. Reviewers still need to use good judgement when writing reviews and doing press interviews. Anticipation makes a film that much sweeter. “Passengers” photo courtesy of Columbia Pictures Born and raised in South St. Louis, Steve Bryan is now based in Anaheim, California, and has been allowed access to movie and television sets to see actors and directors at work. Though his writing has taken him far from St. Louis, Steve is, at heart, still the same wideeyed kid who spent countless hours watching classic movies at neighborhood theaters.

l r i c s t c h ar o t s i h . w ww

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