Issuu

December 21, 2016

Adopting ‘grandparents’ Learn & Play

Create lasting memories

Community Voices

By Dr. Rance Thomas

Around Town

School

OFS raises $9,500

Submitted photos Top Left: Villa at Riverwood resident Gisela “GiGi” Paasch sits with her “granddaughter,” UMSL women’s basketball assistant coach Emily Geary. Top Right: UMSL women’s basketball player Shawnta Johnson sits with her adopted grandmother at the Villa at Riverwood. Bottom: UMSL women’s basketball player Kaitlynn Henning chats with her adopted grandparent at the Villa at Riverwood.

UMSL women’s basketball team forge bonds with local senior citizens By Nicholas Elmes Members of the University of Missouri-St. Louis women’s basketball team have one more “family” member to be thinking about when making their Christmas lists this year. The entire team, including both coaches, have been adopted by seniors living at the Villa at Riverwood, creating a unique program to build relationships between the school and older residents in the area. “It is a great way for our players to be out in the community,” said Assistant Coach Emily Geary. “A lot of our players are from far away and it is a good way for them to feel like they have family in the area and to connect with them. “A lot of the ‘grandparents’ don’t have family in the area either, some don’t even have any family anymore, so it is a win-win for both of us,” she added. “It gives the ‘grandparents’ an opportunity to be connected with UMSL.” Senior player Jordan Boyce, who is

from the Houston, Texas area, said she wished they had had the program in place when she was a freshman. “I really think I could have developed a relationship that could be going on four years now,” she said. “It would have been something that would have been truly beneficial to my experience here and the feeling of being so far away from family and home.” But Boyce says she is making the most of the opportunity in her final year on the team. “I think it is extremely important to build relationships in the community,” she said. “It feels good to feel like I have family when I truly don’t have any blood relatives anywhere close to me.” Geary developed the Adopt-a-Grandparent program this year after enjoying a similar program at another school. “I was at Franklin College in Indiana,” she said, “and we did this with grandparents there. It was just such a great

experience for both our players and the ‘grandparents.’ I thought it would be a great thing to start here. Our head coach, Katie Vaughn, lives very close to Villa at Riverwood and mentioned it to me. I contacted their community relations person and asked if they would be interested.” They were, and Geary quickly started getting her players and coaching staff to put together brief bios to send to the seniors. “They wrote about where they were from and their backgrounds,” she said. “Then their coordinator reached out their residents and found some seniors that wanted to participate. We were matched up with little connections, like we have a player from Quincy who was matched with a ‘grandparent’ from Quincy. I played professional basketball in Germany, and got matched with a ‘grandparent’ from Germany.” See ADOPTING page 2

Young artists exhibit artwork

Movie

Mainstream studios don’t understand quality filmmaking

FREE Online Subscription

www. mycnews

Around Town Vol. 95 No. 51

In This Issue... Town 3 Around State auditor issues report on defunct Northwoods court in St. Louis County and more.

7 Business Senior living community

helps feed the needy this holiday season and more.

8 School Hazelwood students

participate in Hour of Code and more.

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

12 What’s Happening 14 Classifieds 16 Movie Mainstream studios

don’t understand quality filmmaking.

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

December 21, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

COMMUNITY VOICES North County: a great place to live, work and raise a family By Dr. Rance Thomas As many of us know, North County is viewed by many in other parts of the St. Louis metropolitan area as not the most desirable place to live, work and raise a family. However, those of us who live in this community know that this is not true and that it is a wonder place to live. Thus, it is the responsibility of each of us who live and have an interest in this area to promote the positive aspects of North County. This is very important because if families believe that this area is not a desirable place to live, they will not move to it. One of the most important and deciding factors for a family with children to move into an area is the quality of the schools. Of course, families want and have a right for their children to receive a good education and the schools in North Count have developed a negative reputation. However, with the efforts of school districts to improve their quality, the state evaluation over the last few years has concluded that our school districts have steadily improved. This is true for all the school districts in North County. Not only have the school districts of Hazelwood and Ferguson-Florissant, which have had accreditation for many years, improved; but non-accredited districts have improved significantly as well. Jennings School District received full accreditation in 2015

after making incredible improvements in its quality, and Riverview Gardens School District will be receiving a provisional accreditation in January 2017 for its remarkable improvement also. In fact, this has been true for Normandy Schools Collaborative as well. All of them have improved in quality including test scores, attendance and graduation rates. Another factor that a family considers in moving into a community is the quality of housing. Over the last 20-30 years, housing in North County has improved significantly. In fact, many newer homes have been built during these years. Thus, there are many newer moderate and highincome homes located in this part of the county. These and even low-income homes are generally well kept and very comfortable. A third factor in a family’s decision to move into a community is the crime rate. Unfortunately, when a crime is committed in any of the 47 municipalities in North County the media reports that it occurred in North County rather than name the municipality in which it occurred. Therefore, this gives North County as a community an exaggerated crime rate. Of course, the crime rate in some municipalities is higher than in North County, but not as high as some outsiders believe. Thus, individuals in other parts of the

metropolitan area tend to believe that crime is rampant in this area. Of course this is not true either because we have one of the lowest crime rates generally in the area. A fourth factor some families use in deciding to move into an area is the availability of good health care. This should not be a major concern, because we have two of the best hospitals in the state in North County. These are Christian and SSM Health Hospitals, and we have some of the best doctors and specialists in the state in this area also. In addition, we have many urgent care facilities as well. Further, North County is a place where various organizations within the community work together to deal with new and continuing issues alike. Thus, it is truly a place where individuals can become involved in dealing with various problems within the community. Dr. Rance Thomas is Professor Emeritus of Sociology/Criminal Justice and Co-founder and President of North County Churches Uniting for Racial Harmony and Justice. 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.

ADOPTING from cover Boyce said she felt her pairing was perfect. “My ‘grandmother’ is named Betty and she is quite similar to me,” she said. “She is outgoing and has a great personality and is fun to be around. I want to stay in touch with her after I graduate. I feel like we have a really strong connection and I really enjoy her friendship and would like to keep that connection for as long as I can.” After the initial pairings were made, the team visited their new “grandparents.” “We were there for about an hour and a half sitting down and getting to know each

other, just talking,” she said. “Then we came back for a game day. We played Wii Bowling with them and bunch of card games and dominos. The girls had a really good time. When we get back from Christmas break we are going to do a Christmas party with them.” Geary said that in addition to the organized visits, many of the players are also visiting with their “grandparent” on their own time. “One of the players went over with her mom to visit for Thanksgiving,” said Geary.

“For some of the players it is easier to go individually because of their hectic schedules.” Of course the seniors also have a chance to visit their new “granddaughters” whenever they play a home game. “We had them at our first home game, and suddenly we had 20 more fans than normal just sitting in the front row cheering us on,” Geary said, noting that when she was at Franklin College she saw the seniors really get into supporting their team. “They lived for coming to the games. That was their life. We are going to make as much of an effort to get them to as many games as we can. We are working on getting them grandparent t-shirts.” “It was an exciting moment for us,” said Boyce. “I feel like everyone on the team really embraced the opportunity to play in front of the ‘grandparents.’” Geary said she hopes the program continues past basketball season and into future years. “Once it is in place, it is easy to build the connection and keep it going,” she said, noting that her players were getting a lot out of the experience already. “They end up being family. It is nice hearing their history and where they have been in life. The ‘grandparents have a great sense of community and they really enjoy doing things together. For our players, sometimes sharing different experiences gives them a different perspective on life. Anytime you hear from people wise than you, hopefully you can learn from it.”

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • December 21, 2016

Around Town

City of Hazelwood keeps Dr. King’s dream alive with 15th annual tribute The city of Hazelwood’s Community Enrichment Commission will be hosting its 15th Annual Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., on Jan. 15, 2017. The event is going to be held at Civic Center East at 8969 Dunn Road. Admission is free and open to the public. The starting time is 7 p.m. This year’s program will feature Dan Isom, Ph. D. Des Lee Professor of Policing and the Community, University of Missouri-St. Louis, Retired Chief of Police-City of St. Louis, as the keynote speaker. Other participants include Howard Richards, Senior Manager of External Relations, MU College of Arts and Science and Mizzou Football Color Analyst on the Tiger Radio Network, Mayor Matthew Robinson of Hazelwood and the 2017 NCCU Oratory Contest winner. Musical entertainment will be provided by David Graham, a two-time “Comedy Central” veteran, who has performed his Lionel Richie Experience Show at Hazelwood’s Food Truck Night at Howdershell Park. The celebration closes with a memorable candlelighting ceremony honoring the legacy of Dr. King. Refreshments Photo courtesy city of Hazelwood will be served afterwards. Audience members who attend Hazelwood’s 15th Annual Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr, will be participating in a moving candlelight ceremony at the end For more information, contact the Community Enrichof the program which reminds people, young and old alike, about the importance of keeping Dr. King’s dream alive. ment Commission at 314-731-0980.

State auditor issues report on defunct Northwoods court in St. Louis County Missouri State Auditor Nicole Galloway has released a report on the now-defunct Northwoods municipal court in St. Louis County, which identified a number of concerning practices. The audit found the court was charging fees on cases that were dismissed and the police department was collecting unlawful booking fees at the jail. “The fact that this court is no longer operational does not mean we can ignore their past abuses of power, which include charging unlawful fees in order to prey upon on those who can least afford it,” Auditor Galloway said. The audit was initiated after residents petitioned the state auditor to review city operations earlier this year. The city later voted to dissolve its municipal court and transfer cases to the city of St. Ann, which also manages court cases for the cities of Vinita Park and Charlack as part of

the Consolidated Municipal Courts of St. Louis County. Many of the concerns identified in the audit have been addressed through the Consolidated Municipal Courts. Auditors identified concerns with court operations, including the practice of collecting fees on dismissed cases, which is a violation of state law. In general, fees associated with the criminal justice system are only assessed if the individual is found guilty. The audit also found the police department collected a $25 booking fee, which amounted to about $1,700 inappropriately collected in 2015. This is not authorized by the law, which only allows fees to be charged if an individual is found guilty. The city still operates a police department but individuals are booked at the St. Ann jail and the booking fee is no longer collected.

www.seniorshelpingseniors.com/stlouiscentral

Fifth-through-eighth graders mark the 28th anniversary of the Project Lift-Off Holiday Party

Pictured are some of kids at Project Lift-Off on the ice at JJE.

The 28th Annual Project Lift-Off Holiday Party was held on Dec. 3 at the James J. Eagan Center. The event was started by Florissant Mayor Thomas Schneider back in 1989 when he was a councilman. The event is a drug free, alcohol free and tobacco free youth holiday party sponsored by the city of Florissant, Youth Advisory Commission and D.A.R.E.; and again tickets were sold out. At the event was a large crowd of fifth-through-

Photo courtesy city of Florissant

eighth graders as they participated in many activities that were available for them. There were plenty of fun activities like ice skating, swimming and games. Party Time DJ provided music for dancing and plenty of pizza and soda was consumed. Todd Schmidt, the Director of Parks, and his staff worked hard in making the 28th Annual Project Lift-Off another success.

www.bridgeatflorissant.com

Around Town

December 21, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Community Toons

John Hanna

John Hanna is a part time, amateur cartoonist taking his first step into the world of print and online comic media. When he isn’t drawing or working at his second job, he can be seen in and around the St Charles area. If you like his work, that is good. If you don’t like it, that is good too.

Check out our

Home & Garden Section in Classifieds page 15

Trinity Mt. Carmel clergy donate coats to Hazelwood students

www.treesbywoody.net

Photo courtesy Hazelwood School District

Pictured are Pastor Michael G. Cleveland of Trinity Mt. Carmel, Shanise Terrell, principal of Keeven Elementary, Trinity Mt. Carmel clergy members, Tatianna Ware and Keeven home school

communicator. Trinity Mt. Carmel clergy delivered coats that were donated during a coat drive to benefit students at Jury Elementary and Keeven Elementary, in Hazelwood School District.

Gateway Greening announces expansion of Florissant Community Garden

www.dschuster.com

Florisant Community Garden in Florissant was expanded in Spring of 2016 as a result of an award from Gateway Greening. Six additional raised beds were installed and filled with soil. The garden also received an arbor and one watering hose. Florissant Community Garden has 26 gardeners from the community and as a group, the garden will be able to grow 2,900lbs of produce annually, on average. This produce is used by the gardeners and informally given away to community members. “In 2013, through an introduction via Gateway Greening, the Florissant Community Garden partnered with the St. Louis Zoo to include a place for people to learn about the importance of pollinators, thus was born the Florissant Community Garden and Pollinator Park. Over the years our garden went from a simple idea of teaching others about the importance of growing healthy food, to a garden that holds 32 raised beds, a berry patch, a fruit tree orchard and a home for pollinators. The Florissant Community Garden in order to be in-

clusive, does not charge fees, and so heavily relies on the grants available through Gateway Greening. Almost all of our tools, all beds, soil, compost bin, and many plants and flowers came from Gateway Greening. Without their generosity and knowledge, I’ve no doubt we wouldn’t be where we are today.” – Lisa Scherer & Megan Moncure, Garden Leaders of Florissant Community Garden For 30 years, Gateway Greening has educated and empowered individuals to strengthen their communities through gardening and urban agriculture. Gateway Greening’s Garden Program receives many requests to start or expand community gardens in St. Louis. Projects are selected based on a number of factors including: need, the quality of the garden space, the level of community support, and the thoroughness of the plan for using the garden space. Awarded sites are typically supported with seeds/plants, garden tools, materials (hardscape and landscape), and guidance. The Florissant Community Garden is located at 601 N St. Charles Street in Florissant.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • December 21, 2016

Around Town

Operation Food Search raises $9,500 at annual Empty Bowls fundraiser Operation Food Search (OFS) recently raised $9,500 at its 18th annual Empty Bowls fundraiser. The empty bowls signify hunger in our community and bring light to this important issue. All proceeds from the sales of these handcrafted pottery items will benefit OFS’ hunger relief efforts. The fundraiser was held in conjunction with National Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week, which is always the week before Thanksgiving. It was created to show compassion to those who are experiencing homelessness, as well as to work toward a world where no one has to experience hunger and homelessness. Many local artists and studios created bowls and other art items for sale at the Empty Bowls event including Bob Allen, Marianne Baer, and Bridget McDermott Flood. Participating St. Louis students and faculty included Chaminade College Preparatory School, Christian Brothers College High School, Lindbergh High School, MICDS, Parkway West High School, St. Joseph’s Academy, St. Louis Community College – Forest Park, St. Louis Community College – Meramec, and Whitfield School. Operation Food Search recently raised $9,500 at its 18th annual Empty Bowls fundraiser.

Photo courtesy Hazelwood School

By Cindy Moore

Moore On Life

The Twelve Days of Shopping On the first day of Christmas shopping I truly gave to me…a parking spot in a fine zone. It was the last one available and it said, “Parking for Mothers with Children.” I have children. The sign didn’t say they had to be small or with me or even in the same state. A little clarification would be helpful. On the second day of shopping I truly got into the holiday dress mode: two purple gloves, an ugly Christmas sweater, bells on my stockings that lit up with every step and a pair of candy-canestripped pants. I was handed a citation by the fashion police. On the next day of shopping I drove thirty miles to a super shoe sale and discovered the only things left were three size tens. On the fourth day of shopping I called out four nasty words – to the meter maid for giving me yet another ticket for parking in the Associate of the Month’s spot. Really?! How about labeling a special space for the Distressed Psychotic Shopper Whose Head is Ready to Melt?! On the fifth day of shopping I was emaciated and stopped long enough to grab some mall food; five frozen onion rings and a case of botulism. On the following day of shopping I dealt with six clerks a lying. “Sorry ma’am, this sale ended last month.” “Too bad, that sale doesn’t start till spring.” “So sad, your coupon is only valid on merchandise that is imported from Switzerland.” And, “This one is only good on the weekend after Christmas.” After ranting, the last two called, “Security!” The next day of shopping I dealt with seven

swindlers swindling. “Ma’am, your credit has been denied.” “Sorry, your identity has been stolen.” And, “Your car is being towed away by five meter maids.” The day after I was surrounded by eight meter maids a stalkin’. Ridiculous! They had their entire SWAT team of ticketers attached to my bumper. So I parked in the Expectant Mother’s spot and tucked my purse under the front of my shirt then entered the store to find nine ladies fighting over the last Tumbling Zombie Barbie! I had already been ten stores a searchin’ in pursuit of Snakeman, the glowing action figure that shoots deadly paralyzing venom from his nostrils. I finally located the last one on the planet…in the clutches of some kid in a shopping cart. I slipped him eleven bucks for silence while his mom was busy fighting over the Barbie. She caught me midtrade off. The gig was up. I ended up with a black eye and no action figure to show for my investment. On the last day of shopping everything was gone! I purchased 12 flu shot gift cards from the pharmacy for the rest of the people on my list plus a little something for myself…a voucher to get my car out of tow! Cindy Moore is the mother of three superlative kids, servant of two self-indulgent felines and wife to one nifty husband. Her ficticious occupation? Archeological Humorist: someone who unearths absurdity and hilarity in strange and unusual places including public restrooms, the lint filter, and church meetings. Most recently, she excavated a find in her neighbor’s bird feeder. The opinions expressed in this column are Cindy Moore’s alone and do not reflect the opinion of the owners or staff of Community News.

www.ssmhealth.com/orthopedics

Around Town

December 21, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Ferguson-Florissant School District Board of Education votes to appeal judge’s order The Ferguson-Florissant School District Board of Education met on Dec. 9 to determine the district’s response to Judge Rodney Sippel’s order finding the current at-large electoral system, mandated by Missouri law, violates the Voting Rights Act. Sippel ordered the district to implement cumulative voting for the April 2017 election. President, Donna Paulette-Thurman stated, “In the time since the lawsuit was filed, district voters have elected two additional African-American board members. We are confident the present process is lawful and provides an equal opportunity for all candidates.” The district’s attorney will file the appeal with the United States Court of Appeals for the 8th Circuit. Attorney Cindy Ormsby expressed optimism that the judge’s order will be overturned. “The Court of Appeals will recognize that plaintiffs failed to meet their burden of proof in the liability phase of this case. Plaintiffs’ explanation that two of the three African-American board members were elected due to ‘special circumstances’ rather than their qualifications and hard work is, frankly, insulting. In addition, the district believes that cumulative voting is inferior to the current electoral system. According to the judge’s demographic findings, African-American representation is proportionate to the number of African-American voters in the district. In most cases, that sort of proportionality is a goal plaintiffs seek through the remedy. In this instance, it is a remedy without a problem.” Filing for board candidates began Dec. 13 for the April 4, 2017 election. check it out

–

pinterest . com / mycnews

FDCRC organizations offers holiday help to families This year, children and families who have experienced the uncertainty of homelessness and the stress of poverty, will benefit, during the holidays from the help of three nonprofit organizations, PAKT Community Resource Center, St. Louis Crisis Nursery and Fathers Support Center Pathways to Responsible Fatherhood and Families, all with extended offices inside the new Ferguson-Dellwood Community Resource Center (FDCRC) located at 1433 Stein Rd, Ferguson, MO 63135. “PAKT fills the need of God’s people who are living in crisis,” said Executive Director, Toni Burrow. For over 50 years, PAKT has provided programs that greatly impact the North St. Louis County area, which include educational programs, cultural enrichment, community engagement, Lights on After Dark after-school program, a robust STEM + Art summer day camp and an Adopt-A-Family Christmas Toy-Give-Away program. In collaboration with St. Marks United Methodist Church and Negwer Materials, PAKT has adopted 50 families through its Adopt-AFamily Christmas Program. St. Louis Crisis Nursery is vested in the families and children in the Ferguson community providing free short-term care when families are in crisis. Crisis Nursery assist families in Ferguson with children ranging from newborns to age 12.

It’s a safe haven that helps parents re-route their stress, preventing child abuse and neglect, resolving the crisis and empowering families with ongoing support and resources. “For over 20 years, the Crisis Nursery has been making holiday miracles throughout St. Louis, including North County,” said DiAnne Mueller, CEO of Saint Louis Crisis Nursery. “The amazing partnership with Ferguson-Dellwood Community Resource Center will allow us to serve the families and children desperately needing the services that we offer! We are excited about this holiday season in North County and about the great work we will be doing in Ferguson for years to come!” As Ferguson-Dellwood Community Resource Center continues to provide space, this holiday season is the perfect time to share a ray of light in the community. Throughout the year, PAKT, Saint Louis Crisis Nursery, and Fathers Support Center along with volunteers work vigorously in the community to offer their services. Together they will help unite and shine their light on families not only in Ferguson but in the Saint Louis region. For more information about the FergusonDellwood Community Resource Center, visit www.fdcrc.org or call 314-695-4400.

Hazelwood School District partners with parents and community members to review budget

www.byerlyrv.com

Photo courtesy Hazelwood School District HSD invited parents, teachers, staff, and other community members to serve on budget advisory subcommittees to help make recommendations about reducing the budget deficit.

Hazelwood School District has given its parents and members of the community an active voice in the budget review process. “I am delighted that more than 200 members of our community volunteered to be part of the budget review process,” said Dr. Nettie CollinsHart, superintendent. “It is important that we seek input from our community in planning for our future. “This is an extensive community engagement effort and we are committed to engaging our stakeholders, including our parents and community members. It is our desire that this process will be informative, transparent, and will allow for others to see how the budget is developed. We are committed to balancing our budget,” said Collins-Hart. The district surveyed parents, teachers, staff, and other community members, inviting all to join one of nine budget advisory subcommittees of their choice. The nine subcommittees are: • Improvement of Instruction • Business

• Operations of Facilities • Student Services • Communications/Human Resources/Print Shop • Technology • High School Instruction • Middle School Instruction • Elementary School Instruction The budget advisory subcommittees allow for the district to reestablish valuable partnerships with parents, businesses and community members. Subcommittee members have the responsibility in helping to make crucial recommendations about reducing the budget deficit, while considering the long-term impact of those decisions and prioritizing the commended actions. “As a parent, business owner and taxpayer, I am grateful that HSD is considering our voices and expertise in this process,” said Monique Norfolk, HSD parent and subcommittee cochair. “Having an opportunity to truly understand and be part of the budget balancing process is critical as we seek to move forward as a community.”

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • December 21, 2016

Business

AT&T investment assists students in Normandy and Jennings school districts Students at Normandy High School and Jennings Educational Training School (JETS) are benefiting this year from contributions made by AT&T Missouri. The contributions are supporting the Jobs for America’s Graduates program at both schools. Officials from the two schools and AT&T celebrated the grants in separate events on Dec. 13 at the two schools. Missouri Governor Jay Nixon, who serves as a vice chair on the JAG National Board of Directors, joined the event at Normandy. Jobs for America’s Graduates-Missouri (JAG-Missouri) is a state-based nonprofit organization that is part of the national JAG network. JAG is dedicated to helping young people who have potential, but who are, for a variety of reasons, at-risk for not graduating from high school. JAG-Missouri helps ensure students graduate from high school and are prepared to succeed, whether in post-secondary education, the military, or in jobs/careers. The JAG curriculum emphasizes a wide variety of employability skills. JAG-Missouri has 19 sites, including seven in the St. Louis area. Besides Normandy and JETS, the other St. Louis sites include Vashon High School, Roosevelt High School, Sumner High School, Riverview Gardens High School and Jennings High School. AT&T provided two contributions for St. Louis area JAG schools for 2016-17: $10,000 sustaining grant awarded to JETS, now in its fourth year with the program, and a $20,000 incentive grant awarded to Normandy High School, which began offering JAG this year. JETS has 24 JAG students this fall; Normandy has 23 this fall, heading toward an ultimate goal of 45-50. AT&T has been one of JAG’s longest and strongest supporters, both at the national and state levels. AT&T’s contribution to JAG is part of AT&T Aspire, the company’s signature philanthropic initiative that drives innovation in education – through technology, social innovation and relationships – to ensure all students have the skills they need to succeed in school and beyond. AT&T Aspire has impacted more than one million students since its launch in 2008.

Photo courtesy Normandy Schools Collaborative Missouri Governor Jay Nixon speaks with students in the Jobs for America’s Graduates program at Normandy High School. Nixon was at Normandy to announce a $20,000 grant from AT&T to expand the program in Normandy. Pictured here with Nixon are Normandy JAG Specialist William Tolen, and students Latajua London, Khalib Goble and Pierre Burdine.

“For AT&T, this is yet another investment in the future of greater St. Louis and its youth,” said John Sondag, President of AT&T Missouri. “We believe in the power of JAG, based on its 37-year history of success, and we are proud to be one of its partners. We are confident this investment will help lead to higher graduation rates and better futures for the students JAG serves.” For the class of 2015, the JAG-Missouri graduation rate was 99 percent (127 of 128), the best in the nation among the 32 states with JAG. For the class of 2016, the graduation rate is currently 95 percent (287 of 304) and will continue to rise over the next few months during the follow-up. One of the services JAG provides is monthly followup for 12 months following the senior year to assist students in their transition from high school. That includes attaining the high school diploma, placement in post-secondary education, a career or enlistment in the armed services. “I can tell you that JAG is making a different across our state,” said Nixon. “The program helps students feel better connected, which helps increase attendance, participa-

tion and graduation rates. JAG focuses on training and employability skills, which are key to these students’ success. Thanks to a combination of public and private funding, the program is meeting a need for young people who need direction and a sense of hope for their futures. That is the essence of JAG.” The school officials agree. “We are pleased with the addition of JAG to serve our students,” said Dr. Herman Harris, JETS Administrator. “In the three years we have had the program, we have seen the students in the program find their passion, develop skills, graduate and be successful after high school.” “Even in the early stages, we are seeing the positive impact the program can have,” said Dr. Derrick Mitchell, principal at Normandy High School. “We are excited to grow the program, which we believe will be easy as more and more students learn about the opportunities it offers.”

Senior living community helps feed the needy this holiday season

Submitted photo Roughly $500 of non-perishable food was loaded up by five members of the Villa management team and delivered to the Helping Hands Food Pantry of Spanish Lake.

The Helping Hands Food Pantry of Spanish Lake received an unexpected surprise from the Villa at Riverwood, and it came just in time for the holidays. Roughly $500 of non-perishable food was loaded up by five members of the Villa management team and delivered to the pantry. “What an incredible act of kindness” said Helping Hands Director, Ed Meyer, “With the holidays coming up, donations were slowing down and we worried we would not have enough food to feed our families.”

The pantry helps feed 40-50 families every week – and serves up more than 55,000 meals a year. As an independent senior living community with supportive services, The Villa at Riverwood’s Executive Director, Fran Jackson says, “Every day our employees focus on how can they can help better the lives of our residents. It’s all part of our Lifestyle 360 Wellness Program – I am so proud of our employees because this was the gift that they all agreed upon.”

www.aperioncare.com

School

December 21, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Hazelwood students participate in Hour of Code The week of Dec. 5, several schools in the Hazelwood School District took part in the Hour of Code. The Hour of Code is a one-hour introduction to computer science, designed to show that anybody can learn the basics of computer science. The program is a global movement that reaches students in 180 plus countries. Amanda Ehll, Cold Water Elementary Library media specialist, used this week to take her firstthrough-fifth-grade media classes to the computer lab to participate in the Hour of Code. In addition, a computer programmer from World Wide Technology Asynchrony will be visiting to explain coding to students. “Every student should have the opportunity to learn computer science and take part in science, technology, engineering and mathematics activi-

Hazelwood students selected as finalists in NCCU’s Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Oratory contest

Photo courtesy Hazelwood School District

ties,” said Ehll. “It helps to develop problem-solving skills, logic and creativity. By starting early, students will have a foundation for success in any 21st century career path.” To participate in the Hour of Code, no experience is needed. All coding activities are selfguided, and the lessons are for every age and experience level. During the hour, students coded their own video games on Chromebooks. “Computer science drives innovation throughout the U.S. economy,” said Matt McClellan, special areas curriculum coordinator for HSD. “Currently, there are over 500,000 open computing jobs nationwide and last year only 43,000 computer science students graduated into the workforce.” The Hour of Code is organized by Code.org, a public non-profit dedicated to expanding participation in computer science by makwww.facebook.com/mycnews ing it available in schools, and increasing participation by www.pinterest.com/mycnews women and underrepresented https://twitter.com/mycnews students of color.

Photo courtesy Hazelwood School District Catie Mertz, former student at Hazelwood East High School and winner of the 2015 oratory contest, shown with Dr. Rance Thomas, of the NCCU.

Four students in the Hazelwood School District were selected as finalist in the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Oratory contest, sponsored by the North County Churches Uniting for Racial Harmony and Justice (NCCU). Students Taylor Givens from Jamestown Elementary, Jazmin Buford from Hazelwood West Middle School, Morgan McKenzie from Hazelwood North Middle School, and Reece Ellis from Hazelwood East High School, are among ten finalist chosen from surrounding school districts. “We would like to thank all of the teachers, principals and staff for supporting the students as they wrote their oratories,” said Dr. Barbara Thompson, NCCU vice president. “We realize that none of this would happen without their dedication and hard work.” A panel of judges will chose five winners, on Dec. 17, at John Knox Presbyterian Church located at 13200 New Halls Ferry Rd. in Florissant. The program will begin at 3 p.m. Each of the winners will receive a $100 prize. The five winners will then present their oratories at the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration, held in the Terry M. Fisher Theater at St. Louis Community College at Florissant Valley on Jan. 25, 2017. The celebration will begin at 3 p.m.

Hazelwood Central and West young artists exhibit artwork at Lindenwood Three Hazelwood School District high school students had their art work featured in the “Young Artists and Their Teachers” art exhibit at Lindenwood University. The submitted art mediums included drawings, printmakings and fibers. Amelia Galbreath and Kamille Chavarin, art teachers at Hazelwood West High School and Megan Walsh, art teacher at Hazelwood Central High School entered work from their students as well as their own work. The students included: Emily Farinella, Devon Neuber, and Taylor Robin. “I am really proud of these students,” said Matt McClellan, special areas curriculum coordinator for HSD. “The students put a lot of time and effort into the art pieces. This recognition at the Lindenwood art exhibit, is outstanding.” All three students received first place awards for their art work. Farinella won first place in drawing, Neuber won first place in printmaking and Robin won first place in fibers. The “Young Artists and Their Teachers” Photo courtesy Hazelwood School District art exhibit is an annual exhibition held at Student Emily Farinella (left) stands with Hazelwood West High Lindenwood University. The exhibition is open School art teacher Amelia Galbreath at the “Young Artists and Their to high school students in the St. Louis area. Teachers” art exhibit held at Lindenwood University. Students may submit up to two pieces of their a piece of their work which would be displayed original art work and teachers may also submit with their student’s work.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • December 21, 2016

Hazelwood teachers present at national mathematics conference

School

Hazelwood Northwest Middle Student Council helps local animal shelter

Photo courtesy Hazelwood School District Students in the Hazelwood Northwest Middle School student council shown with Dana Widmer, of Stray Rescue. Students donated pet supplies to help care for rescued animals.

For more information on animal adoption and Members of the student council at Hazelwood Northwest Middle School raised $500 to buy volunteering with Stray Rescue, visit their webPhoto courtesy Hazelwood School District food and other items for animals at the Stray Res- site at www.strayrescue.org. (From left) Katherine Lieser, Amber Rutherford, Dr. Cheryl Lubinski and Amanda Rayfield pre- cue of St. Louis animal shelter. sented at the National Conference of Teachers of Mathematics. Jan Beck, English language Mathematics teachers from around the U.S. converge at the arts teacher, and Estela Neel, www com National Council for Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) Innov8 Spanish teacher, sponsor the student council at Northwest Conference. The purpose of the NCTM conference is to provide mathemat- Middle School. “Student council presented ics educators with professional development, academic resourca $300 monetary donation to es, and opportunities to build math communities. A team of second grade mathematics teachers from Jury Ele- Stray Rescue, and a bulk of pet mentary, in the Hazelwood School District, collaborated with re- supplies worth $200,” said Neel. Dana Widmer of Stray Restired professor emeritus from Illinois State University, Dr. Cheryl cue spoke to students about the Lubinski, to present at the conference. The conference was held in St. Louis during the month of No- health and living conditions vember. Workshops were primarily focused on topics geared to- of the animals they find on St. ward engaging the struggling learner. The NCTM conference is Louis streets. “Most of the animals we have an opportunity for teams to engage in hands-on, interactive, and here are rescued from really new learning experiences for educators. “The team shared their practical experience acquired over the bad environments, some have past year,” said Michelle Prather, principal at Jury Elementary. bad skin conditions, they’re “They also displayed student work, and discussed how they sup- skinny and suffer from malnutrition,” said Widmer. port struggling learners in the classroom.”

.MYCNEWS.

Normandy students learn coding at Microsoft store for STEM field trip

Photo courtesy Normandy Schools Collaborative

Fifth and sixth graders from Jefferson Elementary in the Normandy Schools Collaborative took a trip to the St. Louis Galleria to learn about coding at the Microsoft retail store. While at the store, students took a crash course on coding facilitated by Microsoft’s Delano Haugh-

ton. Houghton also shared information about the opportunities in the ever-growing STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields. Students were also able to use their new skills to design digital greeting cards to share holiday cheer with military personnel.

www.MidwestBankCentre.com

Sports

December 21, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Sports you see with Gary B...

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

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

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

www.mycnews.com

Pro soccer player gets early Christmas present 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’ forward Stefan St. Louis was named to the Major Arena Soccer League’s Player of the Week for week seven of the 2016-17 season. St. Louis scored two goals and an assist as the Ambush defeated the Florida Tropics Dec. 9. Although the Tropics built a 3-0 lead early in the first quarter, Stefan never gave up, scoring the first goal of the game and then putting the final nail in the coffin in the fourth quarter. This season marks his sixth in professional indoor soccer and his second stint with the Ambush. He has also played with the Detroit Waza Flo (PASL), Missouri Comets (MISL and MASL) and Milwaukee Wave (MASL). In his previous season with the Ambush (201415), Stefan tallied six goals and six assists in nine games played. Thus far this season, St. Louis has posted four goals and two assists in six games played and he leads the team in points. For more information go to www.STLAmbush.com. * Leading the way UMSL on a roll early in men’s basketball The University of Missouri-St. Louis team has improved to 7-4 overall and is 2-1 in the Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC). Eight different players have started at least one game, while eight different players have been the top scorer. Junior Steven Davis averages a team-best 10.6 points per game with 79.5 percent of his scoring from beyond the three-point line on a team. That number ranks third in the GLVC

and is 34th in NCAA DII. Davis knocked down eight of those three-pointers in a win at Webster coming up one long ball shy of tying the school record. He has made at least one three-pointer in all 11 games. * Leader of the Tritons Lindenwood football player eyes NFL Connor Harris officially became a three-time All-American when he was named to the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) AllAmerican first team at the linebacker position. Harris is statistically one of the top defensive players in NCAA Division II history, and is now one of the most decorated Lindenwood players in program history. Harris earned his second straight first-team All-American honor, and he was also a second-team All-American as a sophomore. He was a four-time all-MIAA selection, won three first-team all-MIAA honors, and was the 2015 MIAA Co-Defensive Player of the Year. Besides being an All-American on defense, Harris was a special teams star this past season. He punted 19 times for a 38.8 average, recovered two onside kicks by the opposing teams, and was a perfect 12-of-12 on PAT attempts. He was also a part-time offensive player during his career, averaging 6.8 yards per rush and having seven rushing touchdowns. Besides his on-field accomplishments, Harris was also a five-time member of the MIAA Academic Honor Roll. Harris will now set his goals on being selected in the 2017 NFL Draft. One of the first steps towards that is participating in the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl on Jan. 21. For more information, go to www.LindenwoodLions.com. * Thanks to Andrew P. Morris of Lindenwood Sports Information for the information 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 21, 2016

Recipe: Create lasting memories with holiday meals From savory starters and sides to a showstopping main course, there are so many recipes to choose from this season. The secret to creating those hallmark holiday moments – the ones that leave us with delicious memories – is choosing the right dish. Whether you’re looking for the perfect recipe for the special holiday meal, an office potluck or a simple snack to warm up with after ice skating, these recipes are an easy way to elevate any moment with tastes you’ll savor for years to come – and leftovers you’ll devour the next day.

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.

For more holiday recipes, visit PorkBeinspired. com, or try the interactive Pork Be Inspired Facebook bot that provides pork fans with greattasting recipes. Just visit the Pork Be Inspired Facebook page, open Facebook Messenger and say, “Hi.” The bot will respond by asking questions to help you find the right recipe.

Five-Spice Pork and Apple Salad Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 I ngredients: 1 pound pork tenderloin 2 teaspoons Chinese five-spice, divided 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1 Fuji apple or other sweet-tart apple 1/4 red onion 3 tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar 2 tablespoons canola oil or other neutral-flavored oil 12 cups mixed greens (about 6 ounces) Directions: Preheat oven to 425 F. Season tenderloin on all sides with 1 1/2 teaspoons five-spice powder, salt and pepper. Place tenderloin in shallow pan and roast about 20 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches between 145 degrees F (medium-rare) and 160 F (medium). While pork is cooking, core and thinly slice apple.

See solution on page 13

Thinly slice onion. While pork is resting, in large bowl, whisk together vinegar, oil and remaining five-spice powder. Add greens, apple and onion; toss. Season with salt and pepper, to taste, if desired. Arrange salad on plates or platter. Cut pork into thin slices. Arrange on top of salads and serve.

Thyme-Basted Ham with Roasted Grapes Prep time: 20 minutes | Cook time: 2-2 1/2 hours | Servings: 15-20 (4 ounces each)

Ingredients: 1 cooked, bone-in ham (6-8 pounds), trimmed pepper 1/2 cup grape jelly 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (1/2 stick), cut into 4-6 pieces 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme 3 cups whole grapes (red, green or a combination) 4 shallots, halved lengthwise and cut into 1/4inch slices Directions: Preheat oven to 325 F. Position rack in lower third of oven. In large shallow roasting pan, place ham flat-side down and score a diamond pattern about 1/8-inch deep into any fat. Season with pepper and bake 1 1/2 hours. Meanwhile, in small saucepan over medium heat,

combine jelly, butter and thyme, whisking occasionally until jelly and butter melt together and mixture comes to gentle boil, 1-2 minutes. Cover and set aside. In medium bowl, combine grapes and shallots. Set aside. Baste ham with jelly mixture. Continue baking, basting with jelly mixture and/or pan juices about every 15 minutes. When ham’s internal temperature reaches 120 F, add grapes and shallots to roasting pan, stirring to coat with pan juices. Continue baking and basting until internal temperature reaches 140 F, 15-18 minutes per pound. Remove ham from oven, transfer to cutting board and let rest 15-30 minutes. If grapes and shallots aren’t tender yet, return roasting pan to oven. Slice enough ham to serve and arrange on plates or platter. Season roasted grapes, shallots and pan juice mixture with pepper, and spoon some on top of ham. Serve remaining grape mixture on side.

Crossword Puzzle – Theme: Year in Review ACROSS 1. Minimal in magnitude 6. Club alternative 9. Angelina to Maddox 13. Cattiness 14. “___ the land of the free ...” 15. Permissible 16. 1/100 of a rial 17. Oahu greeting gift 18. Foolish 19. *”Harry Potter and the ____ Child” 21. *UK’s 2016 withdrawal vote 23. Christian minister, abbr. 24. Long, long time 25. Scottish cap 28. Sushi selection 30. African tree 35. Faubourg Saint-Honoré and Rivoli, e.g. 37. Brown seaweed 39. Latin American plain 40. Sky bear 41. Don’t go out for dinner 43. *This Barrymore got divorced in 2016 44. New Zealander 46. Ring-around-the-rosy flower 47. Prima donna’s numbers 48. George Town state, Malaysia 50. Mary’s follower 52. Born, in society pages 53. Fix a horse 55. *Ezekiel Elliott became one in 2016 57. Popular flowering shrub 60. *Cubs, e.g. 63. *Ciara, on her special day 64. Wade opponent 66. Eagerness, pl. 68. Comic book expression for fear 69. Soccer mom’s ride 70. Icy hut 71. Enthusiasm 72. Product of creativity 73. Cut one’s leg off, e.g. DOWN 1. Aldous Huxley’s drug of choice 2. “The Iliad,” e.g. 3. Hokkaido language 4. One Beatle 5. Less verbose 6. “The ____ and the Beautiful” 7. *Harper ____, 1926-2016 8. *A ____ Called Quest issued comeback

album 9. Seductive one 10. Berry high in antioxidants 11. Crème de menthe flavor 12. Absorbed, as a loss 15. Relating to spleen 20. What some smells do to memories 22. *Kardashian brother who became a dad 24. In total 25. *Election winner 26. Sign of a saint, pl. 27. Subatomic particle 29. *Like 2016 31. One of auto pioneers 32. Sacha Cohen’s middle name 33. Anoint 34. *”Major Tom” singer, 1947-2016 36. Mystery writer, ____ Paretsky

38. Site of Leaning Tower 42. Naiad or maenad 45. English in Spain 49. “Fancy that!” 51. *Olympic host 54. Caterpillar precursor 56. Opposite end of alpha 57. Seed coat 58. *Mosquito-borne threat 59. Yemeni port 60. Rapper and actor, 50 ____ 61. Rodeo Drive tree 62. ____ gin 63. Ciao in the U.S. 65. Argo propeller 67. Rolled grass See answers on page 13

What’s Happening

December 21, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

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

615-4516.

Dec. 31: Support group beginning

Mondays: A cappella singers

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 process and to sign up for the training. Volunteers will be VITA-certified and will begin volunteering at the CORP tax sites midJanuary and continue through midApril. 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 314-615-4021 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 314-513-1674 or cbanaskavich@jfcs-stl.org. Weekdays: Volunteer drivers The St. Louis County Older Resident Programs need volunteer drivers who live in St. Louis County to give a few hours during the day to provide transportation to and from doctor’s appointments for our senior residents of St. Louis County that lives near you! No weekends and mileage reimbursement is available. Call today at 314-

All men who like to sing are invited to come sing with us, The Men of Harmony. We practice every Monday night at 7 p.m. at 5500 Parker Road which is the first house on Uthe Lane. We sing four-part harmony a capella (without accompaniment ). We sing some traditional songs, as well as show tunes and more contemporary music. We do perform for the public at various functions. Persons interested can come right on in or for more information call Al at 314-993-6134.

Tuesdays: Choir rehearsals

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

Tuesdays: Lung cancer support group

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

Tuesdays: TOPS (Take off pounds sensibly)

From 9:15 - 10:30 a.m. located at John F. Kennedy Center/Henry Koch Ctr., Howdershell Rd. at Charbonier Rd., Florissant. For more info contact Paul or Connie McConnell, 314-831-5476.

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

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

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

Wednesdays: Are you interested in losing weight?

Check out TOPS #361 Florissant group of supportive ladies. Meetings are on Wednesday mornings beginning at 9:15 am at Florissant Church of Christ, 16460 New Halls Ferry Rd. in Florissant. If interested, please contact Shirley at 314-895-3528 for more information.

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

Bridgeton Trails Library Branch Programs:

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

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

Thursdays: Blood pressure checks

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

Thursdays: meeting

Women’s

chorus

Every Thursday City Voices Chorus, a women’s chorus singing four-part a cappella harmony, meets at Church of the Good Shepherd at 1166 S. Mason

Rd. in St. Louis. Members come from the entire bi-state region. Call Marcia at 636-274-0723 for more information or visit www.cityvoiceschorus.org.

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

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

Every 3rd Friday of the month: Bingo 2pm, Life Care Center of Florissant, 1201 Garden Plaza Dr. For more information, call 314.831.3752.

Last Saturdays: Writers Workshop: 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.

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 314291-3021 Email: dbland@sarahcare. com ferdfetsch@sbcglobal.net.

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

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

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

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

Sundays: Alcoholics Anonymous Group 109 11th floor conference room at Christian Hospital, 10am, 11133 Dunn Road.

Diabetes Basics:

314.344.7024 for info or 314.344.7220 to enroll.

Crisis Nursery:

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

Center for Senior Renewal:

Day treatment programs for older 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 Hospital Recovery Center:

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

Volunteers Needed at Christian Hospital: Call 314.653.5032 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 314-822-2066 or visit WWW.Nicotine-Anonymous.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

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • December 21, 2016

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, 314953-6090

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.

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.

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 Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hosp, 150 Entrance Way, St. Peters. 636.916.9920. 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 Support group for men diagnosed w/ prostate cancer at any stage. Barnes St. Peters. 636.916.9947. 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. 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. 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 of Christ, 320 N. Forsyth Blvd., Clayton. Meet in Lower Level. For more information, call 314.968.3477. ST. JOSEPH WEST HOSPITAL 4th Tuesday of each month 6:30-7:30 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

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

Every Wed. 6:30–7:30 p.m. STEPS Schizophrenia Support Group Nationally recognized program provides education & support for those w/schizophrenia. Group facilitated by experienced STEPS nurse. Call 314.839.3171.

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 .

Every Sun. 10 a.m. Alcoholics Anonymous Group 109 Meeting held on 11th floor conference Rm. at the Christian Hosp. Open meeting for alcoholics, drugs addicts & their family & friends.

Christian Hospital Community Programs 11133 Dunn Rd./I-270/Hwy. 367 interchange, St. Louis, MO 63136, 314747-WELL. AARP Driver Safety Course AARP Driver Safety Program is the first & largest refresher course for drivers 50+. Four-hour class will help tune up your driving skills & avoid injury. Christian Hosp., Detrick bldg. Atrium B (I-270/Hwy. 367 interchange).

Mental Evaluations Psychiatric & chemical dependency evaluations are confidential & offered free by the Christian Hospital Cntr. for Mental Health. Christian Hosp. has a geriatric psychiatric unit dedicated to serving mental health needs of geriatric patients. Free Lung Function Screenings. Christian Hospital Breathing Cntr. offers free lung function screenings. At Northwest HealthCare, 1225 Graham Rd. Call 314.953.6040.

Every Tues. 6:30–8 p.m. Chemical Dependency Information Meeting Help is here to live a drug-free life & cope with life’s challenges. Call 314.839.3171.

Every Sunday 10 a.m. Alcoholics Anonymous 11133 Dunn Road at the I-270/Hwy. 367 interchange. Group 109 meets in 11th floor conference room, Christian Hospital. Open meeting for alcoholics, drug addicts, their family & friends.

SUDOKU answers from page 11

CROSSWORD answers from page 11

Every Wednesday, 3-4:30 p.m.: Weekly Cancer Survivor’s Support Group.

6 2016 WINNER

Free Mammogram Screenings:

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 21, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

HELP WANTED

SERVICES PET CEMETERY

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

www.climateexpress.com

www.everyonebenefits.com/GaryB

NOVENA

WANTED

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

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

$15.00 CALL

636-697-2414

STATEWIDE CLASSIFIEDS

facebook.com/mycnews

Check it Out! www.MYCNEWS.com

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • December 21, 2016

CLASSIFIEDS

www.HomeWashersStl.com

www.cozyhomecleaners.org

www.scrubbydutch.com

Published Every Week Since 1921 Family-Owned & Operated www.treesbywoody.net

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

December 21, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Movie

By Steve Bryan

Mainstream studios don’t understand quality filmmaking Skimming through the recent Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild (SAG) award nominees, it’s painfully clear that mainstream Hollywood still doesn’t understand quality filmmaking. Throughout the year, people go to the movies, but their choices at the multiplex are typically limited to the latest action blockbuster or the likes of “Sausage Party” and “Neighbors 2.” Despite this box office exposure, the big award nominations often go to smaller films which play at the so-called “art house theaters.” Eddie Redmayne did amazing Oscar-caliber work in “The Theory of Everything” and “The Danish Girl,” but they didn’t play as wide as “Bad Grandpa,” “London Has Fallen” or “Inferno.” Why can’t a “Manchester by the Sea” play the biggest auditoriums? Why did “Room” and “The Imitation Game” make less during their run than “Suicide Squad” earned in its opening weekend? What happened to the days when “E.T.” could hold court for months instead of low-rent horror or comedy? The big studios and theater chains evidently think audiences only want popcorn fare with crude jokes or cartoonish violence. Granted, Marvel Studios does incredible work with their superhero films, but “Office Christmas Party” is a disgusting morass of unconnected and irrelevant sexual innuendo. Why can’t a simple yet elegant film like “Brooklyn” get as much play as that one? The Walt Disney Companies has the magic formula though. They make big money with Marvel while creating memorable animated pieces such as “Zootopia,” “Moana” and “Finding Dory.” The House of Mouse will, of course, expand

their fortunes with “Rogue One,” which is not a bad thing. That keeps the “Star Wars” franchise alive while funding other notable projects. Disney/Marvel also hit the right notes with “Deadpool,” a diabolically brilliant adaptation of the comic series. It was indeed crude and offensive but also clever and extremely funny. Ryan Reynolds is at his best playing an anti-hero with incredible skills and the power to heal. Reynolds even nabbed a Golden Globe nomination for his work. Fortunately, a few Oscar-quality pieces make it to the multiplexes this year. Though snubbed by the Golden Globes, Tom Hanks did an amazing job in “Sully,” portraying the hero pilot who made a miraculous water landing in the Hudson River. Andrew Garfield earned accolades in Mel Gibson’s “Hacksaw Ridge,” a violent and graphic World War II adventure based on real events. Going forward, everyone needs to get on the same page when making movies. Nudity, crudeness and unnecessary roughness can’t compare to good writing and performers focused on making a great film. “Hacksaw Ridge” photo courtesy of Summit Entertainment; “Brooklyn” photo courtesy of 20th Century Fox; “Room” photo courtesy of A24; “Bad Grandpa” photo courtesy of Paramount Pictures; “Office Christmas Party” photo courtesy of Paramount Pictures; “Sausage Party” 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 wide-eyed kid who spent countless hours watching classic movies at neighborhood theaters.

quality vs. Crude