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December 31, 2014

Serving those who serve Recipes

Delightful Ham Dishes

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Youth Stars in Tribute

Photo courtesy the USO of Missouri The USO of Missouri delivers a field lunch to troops stationed at Ft. Leonard Wood earlier this year. This is only one of the ways the USO of Missouri supports military personnel in the state.

Feature Section

USO of Missouri wins top honor for division located at Lambert International Airport

Healthy Living

By Brett Auten They are there at the most joyous of times and at the most sullen. Whether it’s that sensational reunion or escorting the families of the fallen, the USO has been a constant ally and partner in the lives of the U.S. military since the 1950s. Fortunately for those servicemen and servicewomen coming through Lambert-St. Louis International Airport, they have the best there is to offer. The James S. McDonnell USO, a division of the Missouri USO, was honored for the top U.S. Airport Center-Large Division at the 2014 TellUSO Awards. Located on the lower level of Terminal 1 at Lambert-St. Louis International Airport, the James S. McDonnell USO serves as many as 12,000 service members and their families each month along its satellite facility in Terminal 2. Since 1981, over 5 million traveling military and their families have benefited from the multitude of services offered there as the USO of Missouri provides services and smiles to more than 209,000 military personnel and their families annually. “We do the best we can to provide support and a warm, welcome environment,” said Kathy O’Conner, Executive Director of the USO of Missouri.

The USO of Missouri serves the military and their families in Missouri and the Illinois counties of Jersey, Madison, Monroe, and St. Clair. “It’s a tribute to the volunteers for all the hard work they put in,” said David Waltrip, the President of the Board of Directors for the USO of Missouri, of the Terminal facility, which is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The USO of Missouri leans on 1,200 volunteers to serve troops across the state and those traveling through Lambert. Volunteers typically log around 7,500 hours a month. Military visitors at Lambert receive free food and drinks. The USO has had to roll with the punches of the changing times and have complete WiFi access, comfortable rest areas and an assortment of entertainment options. “It’s very exciting for us and our volunteers,” O’Conner said. “Our guests continually tell us we’re the best USO they’ve been to. The award now validates what we hear every day.” What makes the award extra special is that the TellUSO awards are based on the feedback of thousands of troops who are surveyed about the USO’s programs and services at centers in the U.S., Europe, Asia and Pacific regions.

With nearby Ft. Leonard Wood, the Army is the most frequent branch that comes through Lambert, often times reaching double digits every month for servicemen and servicewomen heading to the Ozark installation. Despite all of the good vibes and positive feedback, it’s a hard financial fight to put out such a good product. See SERVING THOSE WHO SERVE page 2

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Vol. 16 No. 53

In This Issue...

Around Town Circus Harmony to take social circus program to Ferguson and more.

Feature Section Healthy Living

Business Byerly RV gearing up for a busy 2015 and more.

School STLCC hosts North County Opportunities Expo and more.

Learn and Play Discover a new book with this week’s Novel Ideas and more.

Movie Reese Witherspoon takes personal drama to the great outdoors in “Wild.”

Sports Local sports with Gary B.

Recipes Ham and Apple Butter Biscuit Sandwich.

12 14 16

December 31, 2014 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

SERVING THOSE WHO SERVE from cover The USO of Missouri and all outreach functions are governed by a board of directors and funded solely by the generosity of donors. The USO of Missouri is not funded by the government, military or the United Way and is not part of the Department of Defense and is financially independent from the National USO. So in order to defend its, title the Missouri USO will once again have to drum up funding. “In January we start back at zero,” O’Conner said. “We are blessed with community support and are able to raise our own finances.” For more information on services, volunteering or donations, call 314-429-7702 or go to www.usomissouri.org.

“Tied Up in Knotts” a daughter’s tribute to a funny and terrific dad

2015 Valley of Flowers Queen candidate applications Applications for the 2015 Valley of Flowers Queen candidates are now available. They may be picked up at the Valley of Flowers office located at 601 rue St. Charles in Florissant. Applications are also available by request at 314-837-0033, via fax 314-8375504, email valley-of-flowers@sbcglobal.net or download from the website at florissantvalleyofflowers.com Candidates must be 16 years of age by April 30, 2015, a junior in high school, and a resident of the city of Florissant. Candidates must be sponsored by a business; however, the business does not have to be located in Florissant. The number of candidates is limited to 25. Candidates will be selected in the order in which the completed application is received by the Valley of Flowers office. Rules and regulations for queen candidates are included with the application. Completed applications will be accepted until February 27, 2015. The parade theme this year is “Valley of Flowers Celebrates Those Who Serve”. Judging will take place at the James J. Eagan Center on Sunday, April 12, 2015. A dinner to recognize the candidates, sponsors and families will follow. Candidates are judged on poise and personality. The winner will be announced after the Valley of Flowers Parade on Sunday, May 3, 2015. A scholarship in the amount of $1,000 will be awarded to the queen upon completion of her reign along with many other gifts and prizes.

Hazelwood youth stars in tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King

What’s Happening Classifieds Over the Fence Joe Morice brings his unique views to the Community News.

Karen Knotts performs “Tied Up in Knotts.”

Submitted photo

The way Karen Knotts, daughter of the late, great comedian Don Knotts, sees it, her growing up years in Los Angeles were Mayberry-like in many ways. More importantly, she says, the man who created Deputy Barney Fife was “a great father.” Knotts, shares details about her life with the actor, famous for his role on the “Andy Griffith Show.” “The show is about my relationship with my dad, which was pretty extraordinary. It may be hard to believe, but he was funniest when just being himself,” said Karen Knotts who performs her one-woman show to honor her late father, beloved character actor Don Knotts. Told with affection and humor, her show is both a heartfelt behind-the-scenes look at the man who played Barney Fife and the story of her own life and career as an entertainer growing up in the shadow of one of the most beloved comedy performers of his generation. “Tied Up in Knotts” is storytelling, music, comedy and multiple characters all performed by Karen Knotts. The Florissant Fine Arts Council presents “Tied Up in Knotts” on Jan. 11 at 2 p.m. at the Florissant Civic Theatre, at Parker and Waterford Drive as part of their Applause/Applause Series, which features professional national and international companies. Tickets are $28 for adults and $26 for seniors and students. Group rates are available also. Call the box office at 314-921-5678 for tickets and information or go online at www.florissantfinearts.com.

Like many child actors who make a TV show popular, six-year-old Money Edwards of Hazelwood may steal the show when she presents The Gettysburg Address as part of this year’s 13th Annual Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., sponsored by the Hazelwood Community Enrichment Commission. The event date is Jan. 18, starting at 7 p.m. It will be held at Civic Center Photo courtesy the city of Hazelwood East located at 8969 Dunn Six-year-old Money Edwards will be a featured Road in Hazelwood. speaker at this year’s 13th Annual Tribute to Admission is free and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., sponsored by the open to the public. Guest Hazelwood Community Enrichment Commission. She will be presenting her rendition of The Getspeakers for the program tysburg Address. include the following individuals: The Honorable Judge Jimmie Edwards, 22nd Judicial Circuit Court and founder of the Innovative Concept Academy; Dr. Grayling Tobias, Superintendent of the Hazelwood School District; Hazelwood Mayor Matthew Robinson; and 2014 Miss Hazelwood Briana Barr. Special musical entertainment will be performed by the Hazelwood East High School Choir. The Reverend Desiree Davis, Assistant Pastor of The Antioch Baptist Church, will end the service with a benediction and lead the audience in a traditional candlelighting ceremony honoring Dr. King’s legacy. Refreshments will be served afterwards. For more information, contact the Hazelwood Community Enrichment Commission at 314-731-0980.

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Holiday hope renewed for Ferguson, North County children in need Children and families from Ferguson and surrounding North County communities celebrated Christmas early with a big party, hosted by the Saint Louis Crisis Nursery, on Dec. 20 at First Baptist Church of Ferguson. As special party guests, children received free coats, shoes, diapers, toys, bikes, pictures with Santa (played by former NFL star Bernard Whittington), and made arts and crafts. Parents received free grocery items, Submitted photo gift cards, and household Santa Claus (former NFL player Bernard Whittington), and hygiene items. There Mrs. Claus (Demetria Lightfoot) and a cute baby. were special appearances by popular cartoon characters, raffles and a delicious lunch spread, compliments of Hardee’s. “We are abundantly blessed and are so grateful to share holiday joy with local children and families,” said Crisis Nursery CEO DiAnne Mueller. “Every child and parent left the celebration with wonderful gifts and memories to last them for a long time.” The Crisis Nursery Ferguson Holiday Party was co-sponsored by: Hardee's Restaurants, LLC, Shop ‘n Save, Coca-Cola, First Baptist Church of Ferguson, Harvester Christian Church, and Karmic Energy.

Circus Harmony to take social circus program to Ferguson St. Louis’ own Circus Harmony made international headlines when their youth circus performers were stranded in Israel this summer at the height of the conflict with Gaza. The young acrobats were in Israel as part of Circus Harmony’s Peace Through Pyramids program with the Jewish/Arab Galilee Circus, a program they have been doing since 2007. Just a few days after the young circus artists returned to the supposed safety of St. Louis, Ferguson exploded in the aftermath of black teenager, Mike Brown, being killed by a white police officer. “It seems that Peace Through Pyramids is needed as much in St Louis as it is in Israel,” said Circus Harmony artistic director, Jessica Hentoff. “We are a social circus which means they use circus arts to promote social change by building character in individuals and bridges between communities. Of the 600 children they work with in the St Louis metropolitan area, over 70 percent are considered at-risk youth residing throughout the St. Louis metropolitan area.” Circus Harmony funds their work through grants, private donations, and performances by their acclaimed acrobatic troupe, the St Louis Arches, as well as classes at City Museum, Raintree School and elsewhere. The Regional Arts Commission has chosen Circus Harmony to be a recipient of their first ever Social Impact grants. Circus Harmony is going to take the

Could your hormones be sabotaging your weight goals? Fewer things are more frustrating than a motivated person who wants to, but can’t seem to lose weight. Motivation, and the desire to work at losing weight, quickly dries up when the scale refuses to budge. But the problem might not be in the number of calories eaten or the amount of energy expended in exercising. Instead, the culprit could be a sluggish metabolism caused by hormone imbalance. Human beings are a complex system of biological checks and balances. We are literally a chemical stew designed to work harmoniously with our environment. As we evolved into the Homo sapiens we are today, our bodies adapted to what was going into our mouths and responded in the appropriate chemical way. Our diets then were made of fresh, healthy ingredients that nourished and fueled us. That has all changed. Today, we slurp sodas, wolf down foods that have little nutritional value while we drive from one place to the next, overdose on sugar and mindlessly snack while spending hours in front of a television, computer or video game. It’s no wonder there is an epidemic of obesity in our country today! But it doesn’t end there. We’re also assaulted with environmental toxins, genetically modified foods and xenostrogens, chemicals that mimic estrogen in both women and men. Add to this the stresses we live with every day and it would appear that our bodies don’t stand a chance of being able to lose excess weight. Often, people will blame their “metabolism” for the inability to shed pounds – and they are usually right. Our metabolism is affected by what we put into and around our bodies. It’s also affected by our quality of sleep, the type of exercise (if any) we do and our general attitude about life. Underlying our metabolism are the chemical processes that keep our bodies running, which includes hormone production. If you’ve tried unsuccessfully to lose weight, it could be that your hormones are keeping you fat. Hormone imbalance in men and women can make substantial, lasting fat loss nearly impossible because

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it sets the stage for a cascade of issues that affect the entire body, not just the ability to lose weight. Below are several hormones that could be causing your body to stumble in your weight loss quest. Thyroid – The thyroid is known as the “master gland” because it affects every part of our bodies. It probably has the most impact on your weight because it is in total control of your metabolism. Low thyroid hormone symptoms include fatigue, unexplained weight gain and depression. When not enough usable thyroid hormone is produced, your metabolism can slow to a crawl. Estrogen – A high estrogen level that outpaces its counterbalance hormone progesterone can significantly increase the potential for obesity. Xenostrogens mentioned above are an external contributor to the higher prevalence of the female hormone in contemporary society. These can be found in food sources exposed to herbicides, pesticides or growth hormones, plastics that contain phalates and parabens in some skincare products. Estrogen is also produced in the body by fat cells, so the heavier you are, the more estrogen your body produces. Belly fat is a common result of excess estrogen. Cortisol – Not all stress is bad, but when it’s chronic and keeps you in a heightened state of fight-or-flight, your body is affected at the cellular level. When stress is chronic, cortisol floods the system and disables fat burning hormones. Cortisol can also lower thyroid hormone levels and make you crave comfort foods. Stubborn belly fat is also a telltale sign that cortisol is out of control. Insulin Resistance – When your diet is composed of high amounts of processed carbohydrates, high fructose corn syrup, artificial sweeteners and

children who went to Israel into Ferguson to present their Peace Through Pyramids program to the children of Ferguson, providing a starting point for creating a youth circus troupe in the Ferguson community. In addition, Cirque du Soleil is returning to St. Louis and has selected Circus Harmony to be a benefit partner because of their work with youth at risk. Cirque du Soleil donates tickets to organizations providing assistance to youth at risk with 100 percent of the profits from ticket sales supporting their work with young people. For the January 9th performance of Varekai at Chaifetz Arena, if you buy your benefit ticket through Circus Harmony, 100 percent of the ticket sales will directly support Circus Harmony’s Flying Children Scholarship Fund. People who buy the benefit tickets will also receive a ticket to see the January 24th performance of Circus Harmony’s new show, Guibilante! The benefit tickets are only available through Circus Harmony. You can get your tickets now at www.circusharmony.org to help a child defy gravity, soar with confidence and leap over social barriers, all at the same time! You can also call 314-436-7676 for tickets. For more information on the special Cirque du Soleil performance to benefit Circus Harmony at Varekai, Friday, January.9, at Chaifetz visit http://circusharmony.org/cirque-du-soleil/

By: Drs. Jen and Jason Rhodes high-sugar foods, your pancreas goes to work releasing insulin to manage all the ingested sugars. In an optimum diet, the sugars are processed into glycogen and carried to the cells for energy. But a poor diet can cause too much insulin production resulting in sugar being stored in the body (usually in the belly) as well as an inability to use stored fat as energy. Irritability, cravings, constant hunger, foggy thinking and feeling just plain awful are signs your pancreas may be working overtime. The good news is there are solutions to hormone imbalance. Join us for a free informational night on “Weight Loss Resistance” on Jan. 8 and Jan. 20 at 7 p.m. In it, you’ll learn how hormone imbalances affect every aspect of your life and how you can achieve permanent weight loss in a healthy and safe way. Space is limited, so call today at 314-983-9355 to reserve your spot or call for more information!

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December 31, 2014 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

An app a day keeps health problems away As a primary care physician, I know that most of my patients always have their phones nearby, and it adds great value to their visit with me if they can use it to share information about their health. However, there are many “health” apps to choose from so I’ve recommended some favorites: For diabetic management, I recommend Glucose Buddy. This free app allows patients to enter their blood glucose, carb consumption, and the amount of insulin they are using. There is also a place to add notes. For example, a patient might note a high glucose value was

By Jamie Tueth, DO (Internal Medicine)

due to eating dessert. I also like that you can print out your readings for your physician. I recommend Loseit! for someone that would like assistance in losing weight. Loseit! is a database that allows you to log meals, nutritious values, and exercise. This app makes it easy to see exactly what you put into your body compared to the number of calories you are burning on a daily basis, promoting awareness and healthier eating habits. For the hypertensive patient aiming for better blood pressure control, there is iBP Blood Pressure. This is an easy-to-use app that lets you log your blood

pressure, heart rate and make notes along the way. You can view your results in a graph and forward it to your physician’s email. On the other hand, steer clear of any app that diagnoses a patient based on their symptoms, as it can possibly be harmful. It is always safer to be diagnosed by a physician rather than an app. Jamie Tueth, DO, is a board-certified physician. She is a member of BJC Medical Group and Progress West Hospital. Please call 1-855-747-5400 or visit bjcmedicalgroup. org for more information. Note: Her recommendations are based on personal opinion.

Snacking Done Right

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What makes a healthy and satisfying snack for children? A well-balanced snack with good nutrition can help kids grow and provide them with the proper support and energy needed for school, sports and other daily activities. Parents have the best intentions when looking for nutritious options for their children, but challenges related to lack of access or knowledge of nutritious foods have contributed to an alarming trend. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, childhood obesity rates in the U.S. have more than doubled in the past 30 years, with over one-third of children currently overweight or obese. Kids and snacking: A number of factors contribute to obesity rates, with snacking as a major culprit. While parents need to consider what they provide their children for three main meals a day, what they eat in between is equally important. Research by DuPont Nutrition & Health shows that children eat two to three snacks each day. Other studies confirm that American kids are consuming more than 700 calories in afternoon and evening snacks alone. Aside from the fact that

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these calories make up a substantial part of the total daily recommended caloric intake for children, most of the snacks commonly consumed by kids are high in saturated fats or simple sugars in the form of salty snacks, candy and beverages — such as fruit drinks — according to a University of North Carolina study. Parents face many practical challenges in providing healthful snack options to kids who are onthe-go and may not have access to refrigeration or re-heating capabilities. This often leads to snacks which lack the essential vitamins, minerals and protein a growing body needs. While snacking is essential to give kids the energy they need for the day, it’s important to provide snacks that contribute to daily intake goals of nutrients to support healthy growth and development.

www.mycnews.com • Community News • December 31, 2014

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Business

December 31, 2014 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

First Bank helps blanket St. Louis area with warmth

Advertiser Profile: Byerly RV gearing up for a busy 2015 By Russ Patton, owner of Byerly RV This time of year, RVers in the Midwest either hibernate or join the great migration to warmer climates. Meanwhile dealers are winding up the year and planning for 2015. The Midwest Gateway RV Show, Jan. 29-31, promises to be another record breaker. Hundreds of RVs will be on display at Americas Center. Byerly began our holiday season with our annual Light Show Caravan which drew over 400 people. Pat and crew shuttled customers in motorhomes from Byerly up to Jellystone Campground near Six Flags in Eureka. Each year Jellystone decorates the campground with a fantastic array of lights for the holiday season. Special thanks go to Jellystone for permitting the motorhomes to go to the head of the line. Anxious attend-

Photo courtesy First Bank (From left) Jonathan Roberts (First Bank), Dennis Kelley (EnergyCare), Angela Pinex (First Bank), Ed Furman (First Bank) and James Owen (EnergyCare) all helped load blankets into the EnergyCare truck on Dec. 17.

Photo courtesy Byerly RV

ees waited in the showroom and enjoyed cocoa, cookies and had photos taken with Santa Claus. What a beautiful way to end another great year. After another bountiful year we enjoy a brief rest. Our lot is filled because we anticipate shortages and long backlogs on orders. Falling gas prices are a factor, but the compelling reason is the appeal of the family centered lifestyle provided by RVs. From $5,000 to $500,000 Byerly RV has an RV waiting for you. We call Byerly the “Center of the RV World” because customers come hundreds of miles to buy from one of the Midwest’s oldest and most reputable RV Dealers. See you in 2015. Meanwhile visit us at www.byerlyrv.com and watch for our upcoming Facebook page.

With temperatures plunging, First Bank employees donated a record 202 new electric blankets and raised $6,000 on behalf of EnergyCare, a non-profit organization located in St. Louis. “I cannot thank our employees enough for their generous donations,” said Ed Furman, First Bank Senior Vice President and Chief Investment Officer who organized the employee effort with First Bank. “Their efforts will help more St. Louisans stay warm this winter.” In addition to setting a record for most blankets collected since the EnergyCare initiative was started in 1999, First Bank and its employees set a record with over $6,000 in donations. Helping Furman load the blankets onto the EnergyCare truck on Dec. 17 was Jonathan Roberts, First Bank Executive Vice President – Director of Retail Banking; Angela Pinex, First Bank Community Affairs Officer; Xavier Koenig, First Bank IT Analyst and Project Leader; Dennis Kelley, EnergyCare Executive Director; and James Owen, Assistant to the Executive Director, EnergyCare. Since 1999, First Bank employees have donated a total of 1,933 blankets valued at nearly $52,000. In the summer, First Bank employees also donated new air conditioners to EnergyCare. Combined, First Bank has raised well over $115,000 for the non-profit during the past 15 years. EnergyCare relies on generous donations to help to keep lowincome, homebound and medically-at-risk people safe. EnergyCare provides energy-related services and information for the low-income elderly, ill, disabled and families with young children in St. Louis City and County. Donations are tax deductible. For information, please visit www.energycare.org or call 314-773-5900.

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STLCC-Florissant Valley hosts North County Opportunities Expo St. Louis Community College (STLCC) is partnering with several community organizations to sponsor North County Opportunities Expo: Trades, Training and Apprenticeships. The Expo takes place 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Jan. 13, at the Training Center on the Florissant Valley campus at 3400 Pershall Road in Ferguson. For information, call the recorded event information line at 314-539-5791. The Expo will include workshops and helpful information on how to find resources to prepare for employment in the building and skilled trades. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore various training opportunities in union trades, highly technical skilled utility work, and advanced manufacturing. Resources are available on-site to help individuals address career roadblocks. “The Florissant Valley campus is a hub for teaching, learning and opportunity,” said Ruby Curry, interim president of STLCC-Florissant Valley. “We are excited to partner with these entities to showcase all the vital opportunities that trades, training and apprenticeships can offer.” There are more than $5 billion in major construction projects already planned in the region over the next 10 years. At the same time, the building and skilled trades face significant retirements over the next five years, and industry experts project a worker shortage for high-paying construction jobs. The Expo presents an ideal opportunity to explore the trades and to learn more about joining the industry. Leonard Toenjes, president of the 400-member Associated General Contractors (AGC) of St. Louis, said, “As we plan for the years ahead and the potential growth of our region, it is important that contractors reach out into every

available resource in our community to find the construction team members they need. The St. Louis construction contracting community cannot build without the talented, hardworking people from every area of our region.” “The Laborers’ Union prides itself on being the best trained and most diverse union in the St. Louis area,” said Gary Elliott, business manager of the Eastern Missouri Laborers District Council. “We’re proud to be a part of the North County Opportunities Expo, and are excited to showcase our organization and the type of work that we perform to potential new members.” Community sponsors include 24:1, Ameren, Boeing, Associated General Contractors of St. Louis, Carpenters Joint Apprenticeship Program, Construction Careers Center, Eastern Missouri Laborers’ District Council, Missouri Office of Community Engagement, St. Louis Building and Construction Trades Council, SLATE, St. Louis Community College, and St. Louis County Workforce Development. Among the community representatives on hand to address career roadblocks are Better Family Life, Father’s Support of St. Louis and North County Forever. “The Missouri Office of Community Engagement is excited to join with our many partners, both private and public in bringing the Opportunities Expo to the St. Louis Region,” said former Missouri Sen. Maida Coleman, director of the Office of Community Engagement. “We are committed to supporting training and educational programs critical to building a stronger region. Together we are better than ever.” In the event of inclement weather, the Expo will be held on Jan. 15. For STLCC weather closings, call 314-513-4949.

Hazelwood alumni return for college and career fair

School

Three STLCC students receive the Barb McDowell Honorary Nursing Scholarship

Photo courtesy St. Louis Community College

Her colleagues used words like “insightful,” “kind” and “passionate” to describe Barb McDowell, who recently retired after 15 years as a member of the nursing faculty at St. Louis Community College. In honor of McDowell, the college faculty and staff donated to the St. Louis Community College Foundation to create the Barb McDowell Honorary Scholarship, which was presented this December to one graduating student from each of the STLCC campuses with nursing programs: Jesse Meng (Florissant Valley), Ashley Thomas (Forest Park), and Mollie Hoermann (Meramec). The scholarship is a one-time award named for an STLCC Nursing department faculty member. Nursing faculty and staff choose the scholarship recipients. Each student received $100. “Since spring 2013, we have had five faculty retire from the district nursing program,” said Karen Mayes, STLCC’s director of nursing education. “With each retirement, I have asked for donations to a scholarship to be given to one student from each campus in honor of the retiree. I ask for one-word descriptors of the faculty member, and those descriptors are compiled into a “Celebrate You” collage. Those same one-word descriptors are used to choose the scholarship recipients from each campus.” McDowell, the fall 2014 honoree, retired this past summer. “Barb was an incredibly talented faculty member who always was student-centered in all that she did,” Mayes said of McDowell. “I hope to share the qualities that helped me receive this scholarship with my coworkers and my patients, as well as their families,” said Meng. He intends to work in medical-surgical or telemetry. Thomas described Forest Park as “a wonderful experience.” Thomas hopes to work in neonatal intensive care. “I have gained some amazing friends, and have met some of the most knowledgeable nursing instructors,” she said. “I hope someday to be as great of a nurse as some of the instructors I have come across.” Hoermann said McDowell was a “kind, informative, bright and motivational teacher.” Hoermann plans to work in a trauma care unit or in cardiology.

Photo courtesy Hazelwood School District Alumni from Hazelwood East High School ranging from 1990-2008 returned to the school district to share their wisdom with Hazelwood Southeast Middle School students during its annual college and career fair.

When planning this year’s college and career fair, Hazelwood Southeast Middle School staff decided to do something a little unorthodox; they invited Hazelwood alumni to lead the event. Alumni from Hazelwood East High School ranging from 1990-2008 returned to the Hazelwood School District to share their wisdom with current students. They gave back by proudly representing numerous companies and diverse professions. The careers ranged from various fields of engineering, human resources, law, education, medical, fashion, and animation design. The alumni in attendance were: • David Gorden, Lion Forge Comics - HEHS class of 1990 • Bellande Christian, Boeing - HEHS class of 1991 • Crystal Martin-Nicholson, Centene Corporation - HEHS class of 1991 • Felicia Chatters-Boyd, Parkway School District HEHS class of 1991 • Wesley J.C. Bell, municipal court judge for Velda City, law professor at St. Louis Community College-Florissant Valley, and prosecutor for the Village of Riverview - HEHS class of 1992

• Andrea Hayes, Hazelwood School District communication arts and reading specialist HEHS class of 1992 • James Thomas, Boeing - HEHS class of 1992 • Sheldon Williams, Scottrade Center - HEHS class of 1992 • Kimberly Danchus, BJC Intensive Care Units HEHS class of 1992 • Kacey Martin-Johnson, Phillips 66 Wood River Refinery - HEHS class of 1997 • Jasmine Stocking Brown, JStocking Designs HEHS class of 2008 During the event, the East High alumni shared information about college preparation and readiness, school and career options, as well as the choices and challenges that they faced. Students were also given an opportunity to ask questions of the former students. In addition to HSD alumni and other representatives were Fox 2 News Reporter Anthony Kiekow, Pamela Simmons, St. Louis American, and Spanish Lake Fire Protection District Emergency Responders were among the special guest presenters.

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Learn & Play SUDOKU:

December 31, 2014 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

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

See solution on page 13

Historical Fiction, Tragic and Gripping The year is 1798; Daniel Dickinson is forced to leave his Quaker village in Pennsylvania, ousted by the church elders for allowing a teenage orphan girl to remain in his home after his wife dies in childbirth. Needing someone to help care for his five children, one a babe in arms, Daniel marries the orphan girl Ruth and heads south with his brood to establish a home in Virginia. It is a journey fraught with difficulties that foreshadow what lies ahead. Author Linda Spalding bases her new novel “The Purchase” on her generations-old family history, visualizing the struggles Daniel, an abolitionist, faces when he finds himself, quite by accident, in possession of a young slave boy. His “purchase” seems deemed by fate—Daniel goes to an auction to buy tools to build his house and is appalled to see slaves penned with pigs and cattle, treated as mere creatures to be sold on the block. Forces outside his control intervene at the auction, “…he felt his right arm go up as if pulled by a string.” Much to his family’s shock, Daniel returns with a slave, another mouth to feed and one devoid of any skills the Quaker needs in building a home in the wilderness. As his children age, Daniel’s troubles intensify, and his relationships suffer. Throughout this sad but riveting novel, Daniel, a man with high values, is dogged by his poor choices and happenstance. But unlike Jack in “Jack in the Beanstalk,” who trades his mother’s cow for a handful of magic beans, Daniel’s life has no fairy-tale ending replete with happiness and wealth. His “purchase” brings on tragedies that test Daniel and alienate him from those he loves. Despite his strife, loss and heartbreak Daniel retains his “high moral character.” This, then, is the ray of optimism in “The Purchase,” an engaging but dark novel that received Canada’s 2012 Governor General’s Award for Fiction. Reprinted with permission. Missourian Publishing Company. Copyright 2014.

Crisis Nursery provides a safe haven for children and families By Val Joyner, MA | Public Relations Manager at Saint Louis Crisis Nursery

For more than two decades, Crisis Nursery has served as a beacon of hope to families with children (birth through age 12) that find themselves in overwhelming emergency situations. Now operating three Crisis Nurseries in St. Charles County in partnership with the St. Charles County Community and Children’s Resource Board and SSM St. Joseph Health Center, the Nursery is a safe-haven, offering hope for vulnerable children and parents who have nowhere else to turn for support during the most difficult time of their lives. Crisis Nursery is an independent, not-for-profit that offers short-term care for children, birth through age 12, 24-hours a day, 365 days a year. While children are safe and protected in the Nursery’s homestyled safe havens, their parents receive abuse/neglect prevention services, including parenting education, confidential counseling and access to much needed basic resources. Each child who stays at the Nursery receives a full range of services necessary for their growth and wellbeing. In addition to food, formula, clothing and shoes, diapers and medical care, they also receive

therapeutic services to encourage positive self-expression. Thanks to donor and community contributions, all services are available at no cost to the parents. Four-year-old twins Maury and Mason* visited the Nursery one cold winter evening, following their family’s eviction from a one-bedroom apartment that was condemned because of sewage contamination. The twins were ecstatic to freely run around the Nursery in new superhero pajamas and slippers playing with dinosaurs and race cars. When asked how they liked being at the Nursery, Mason replied: “It smells like yummy here, and I get lots of hugs!” Meanwhile, their parents were connected with a Crisis Nursery Family Empowerment Program (FEP) staff that provided one-on-one counseling services, helped them with personal hygiene items and food, and connected them to job and housing referrals. The parents are still active with the Crisis Nursery FEP and they have a secure, stable and clean place to call home. Both parents are employed; and the twins have new friends in their safe community. As the ancient proverb suggests, it takes a village to raise a child. Agency-wide, Crisis Nursery provides cares for close to 7,000 children each year. Dedicated staff and volunteers together deliver approximately 240,000 hours of individualized support to every child in care. Not one child’s needs are unnoticed or unattended. The agency’s flexible volunteer schedule offers an opportunity for more community members to get involved. Interested volunteers can register to be a member of the “Crisis Nursery Best Friends” to help in the Nursery; shopping for children, family and Nursery needs; and to support fundraising events. Each contribution, whether its volunteer work or donating new or gently used items, helps forward

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the Nursery’s mission of saving babies’ lives, keeping kids safe, and building strong families. To learn more about Crisis Nursery and the “Best Friends,” visit www.crisisnurserykids.org. To volunteer, email Volunteer Manager MaryPat at marypat@ crisisnurserykids.org. For emergency care, call (636) 947-0600. You may also follow the agency on social media at Facebook: Saint Louis Crisis Nursery and Twitter: @STLCrisisKids. *names changed to maintain confidentially

www.mycnews.com • Community News • December 31, 2014

Movie

“Wild”

By Steve Bryan - Rated: R

rude finger gestures at the sky. Performers sometimes reach a point in their careers when they abruptly exceed Through flashbacks, director Vallée explores the events all expectations and assumptions. Julia Roberts did it, for instance, with “Erin and decisions that prompted the real-life Strayed to make Brockovich” and, years later, Santhis trek. Redra Bullock followed suit with “The ese WitherBlind Side.” This year, Reese Withspoon rises to erspoon puts romantic comedies far the challenge behind her with “Wild,” an outdoor of the role, goadventure based on the best-selling ing solo through memoir of the same name. much of the story. Witherspoon plays Cheryl Strayed, The actress captures Strayed’s battles a 26-year-old putting her life in orwith inner demons and painful memder by hiking 1,100 miles alone. To ories as she walks with that massive say her personal life is a mess would pack. be an understatement. After the Witherspoon’s character also endeath of her mother (Laura Dern), counters a variety of people in her Strayed’s drug abuse and infidelity months-long journey. Most of them destroy her marriage. Hiking the are helpful, friendly types like Greg Pacific Crest Trail is meant to restore (Kevin Rankin), who offers hiking order to a very chaotic life. tips and Snapple. When Strayed enDirector Jean-Marc Vallée folcounters a couple of crude hunters, lows up 2013’s “Dallas Buyers Club” though, the movie and her trip take with a raw, honest story of a woman on a decidedly malicious flavor. pushing herself to her limits. LackDefinitely not a vanity project ing elaborate sets or extraneous diafor Reese Witherspoon, “Wild” is logue, “Wild” is an engaging motion thoroughly engaging and inspiring. picture and a breakout role for Reese Witherspoon and Jean-Marc Vallée Witherspoon. Although the actress always keep it real and identifiable for earned an Oscar for the Johnny Cash the audience. This isn’t typical Holbiopic “Walk the Line,” this role is lywood fare, and it doesn’t have to be. light years away from anything she “Wild,” rated R for sexual content, has done before. nudity, drug use, and language, curIt’s easy to identify with Cheryl rently is playing in theaters. Strayed, a smart young woman Born and raised in South St. Louis, whose life veered off course. A hikSteve Bryan is now based in Anaheim, ing novice, Strayed buys all kinds California, and has been allowed access “Wild” photos courtesy of Fox Searchlight Pictures of hiking gear, including boots that to movie and television sets to see actors are too small. When the onscreen and directors at work. Though his writing has taken him far from St. Louis, Steve is, at Strayed makes it to a rest area, the other hikers refer to her massive pack as “The heart, still the same wide-eyed kid who spent countless hours watching classic movies at Beast.” Alone with her thoughts on the trail, Strayed is prone to yell and make neighborhood theaters.

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December 31, 2014 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

Sports

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www.seniorshelpingseniors.com/stlouiscentral

Start the New Year at a rodeo Get ready for some dirt flying at the Family Arena on Friday and Saturday Jan. 9 - 10. Lone Star Rodeo Company presents fast-paced action, thrilling rides, exhilarating spills, funny jokes, play-by-play commentating, and quality family entertainment in one great place. You will see little cowboys dreams come true with fast horses and big bucking bulls waiting to show you what they can do. Cowboys from all over the surrounding states and some hometown favorites try their luck at all the great rodeo contest events including bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling, calf roping, cowgirl’s breakaway roping, team roping, cowgirl’s barrel racing, and the much loved bull riding! Go to www.FamilyArena.com to get all the details. * Ye Haaaa Rams ‘throw away’ last game of season The team traveled to Seattle with nothing to lose and trying to be a spoiler to keep the Seahawks from getting homefield advantage in the playoffs. The game started great being on the good side of a 6-0 lead at the half. But, just like most of the season, the St. Louis squad was not able to finish strong and gave up 14 points in the fourth quarter to drop the final game of the season 20-6. Two interceptions allowed the Seahawks to pick up touchdowns on both turnovers to seal the win. A few Rams highlights: • The Rams held the Seahawks scoreless in the first half of play. The last time that happened was in postseason play Jan. 13, 2012 and in regular season play Oct. 23, 2011. • Defensive tackle Aaron Donald has 9.0

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sacks this season, most among NFL rookies this season. • Linebacker James Laurinaitis led the team in tackles with nine (four solo). • The defense closed out the season with three sacks on the Seahawk QB to push their season total to 40 sacks, a great accomplishment • Punter Johnny Hekker punted five times for 247 yards-a 48.0-yard net average, his second highest mark of the season. • Kicker Greg Zuerlein kicked 33 and 52 yard field goals finishing the season converting 24of-30 field goals. * Great first half…again…better next year? Indoor football team signs Hazelwood East player The St. Louis Attack indoor football team has added a player to the 2015 roster. Signing is 6’5”, 350-pound offensive lineman Anthony Jackson who is born and raised in St. Louis. He attended Hazelwood East High School before going to Arkansas State University. He spent last season in Nashville, where he won a PIFL championship with the Nashville Venom. The 2015 season will be his fifth playing indoor football “I’m looking forward to doing my job. From my alignments to assignments and gelling with my fellow linemen and teammates,” said Jackson. “And playing for the Attack provides me a great opportunity to stay home and play the game I love in front of my family and friends. That makes both my family and me happy.” The Attack open the 2015 season on March 29 when they travel to Texas to take on the Corpus Christi Fury, and open the home season on April 4 when they host the Rio Grande Valley Sol at the Family Arena. For more information go to www.STLAttack. com * More football right around the corner Gary Baute, a St. Louis native, may be educated in business but he lives and breathes sports. As a fan or an athlete, Gary is all sports all the time. He hosted a radio sports program on KFNS, emceed the River City Rascals’ inaugural season, and cohosted SportsRadioSTL.com, among many other activities.

www.mycnews.com • Community News • December 31, 2014

ham dishes to warm Recipes: Delightful up winter While winter brings chilly temperatures and longer nights, there’s nothing that can bring a family together like a warm meal. In the hopes that everyone has a meal to share with loved ones, country music star Kimberly Schlapman of Little Big Town, has teamed up with Smithfield, encouraging others to lend a ham to those in need.

This winter, Schlapman is showing how easy it is to give back. Simply tweet your good deeds using the hashtag #LendAHam and Smithfield will make a protein donation to a local food bank, with the goal of donating up to one million servings. For more information, visit www.Smithfield. com/LendAHam.

Ham and Apple Butter Biscuit Sandwich Servings: 6 | Created by Kimberly Schlapman

Ingredients: For the Cheddar Bacon Biscuits: 8 strips Smithfield Thick Cut Bacon 1 cup onion, small dice 2 cups flour 1 tablespoon baking powder 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon paprika 1 cup buttermilk 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted 1 cup Cheddar cheese, shredded For Granny Beck’s Apple Butter: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 3 pounds assorted apples, peeled, cored and cut into 1-inch pieces 3 cups apple cider Zest and juice of 1 lemon 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon allspice For the Sandwich: 3 tablespoons butter 3 tablespoons light brown sugar 3 tablespoons maple syrup 6 slices Smithfield Hickory Smoked Spiral Sliced Ham, sliced in half Apple butter (store bought or recipe below) 6 cheddar bacon biscuits, sliced in half (recipe below) 10 ounces arugula

pan and drain on paper-lined tray. Remove all but 1 tablespoon of bacon fat and reserve. To remaining bacon fat, add onion and sauté until caramelized, about 5 minutes. In a large bowl combine flour, baking powder, salt and paprika. Mix to blend then make a well in the center of the bowl and add buttermilk, butter, bacon, onions and cheese. Mix gently with a wooden spoon until dough is combined. It will be wet and sticky. Using a 1/2 cup measure portion the batter onto a baking sheet, leaving an inch or so around each biscuit. Brush some of the reserved bacon fat on the top of each biscuit. Bake in oven until biscuits are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center of one comes out clean, 20 to 22 minutes.

Preheat oven to 425°F.

For Granny Beck’s Apple Butter: In a dutch oven over medium heat melt butter and add apples. Cook until apples are slightly soft about 5 minutes. Add cider, lemon zest and juice, cloves, cinnamon and allspice. Bring to a boil, and reduce heat to a simmer. Let simmer, partially covered and stirring occasionally for about 1 1/2 hours to 2 hours until it is reduced and thickened. Mash mixture with a potato masher until uniform. Let cool before serving.

Cook bacon until crispy. Remove from

For the Sandwich:

Directions: For the Cheddar Bacon Biscuits:

Preheat grill or grill pan to medium high. In a small pot over medium heat, melt butter, brown sugar and maple syrup until sugar dissolves. Brush mixture on ham and grill slices until charred, about 1 to 2 minutes per side. Baste the ham with more maple syrup mixture. Spread apple butter on the halved biscuits and top with grilled ham and arugula. Top with other half of biscuit to make a sandwich. Serve with more apple butter on the side.

What’s Happening

December 31, 2014 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

Send your event to editor@mycnews.com and we'll print it! Events Dec. 31: New Year’s Eve party We will have a live band and prizes at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois from 8 p.m. – 1 a.m. Please join us; all profits go to support veterans. For more information call 314831-6121. Jan. 2: Steak fry Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois from 5 – 8 p.m. All profits go to support veterans. 314-831-6121. Jan. 2: Bid Whist Card Club “Healthy Living for Seniors” series offered by Mid-East Area Agency on Aging and the St. Louis County Library at the Florissant Valley Branch from 10 - 11a.m. Jan. 5: Chair Exercises “Healthy Living for Seniors” series offered by Mid-East Area Agency on Aging and the St. Louis County Library at the Florissant Valley Branch from 10 - 11a.m. Jan. 6, 2015: Pickleball Pickleball, a paddle sport created for all ages and skill levels, will be held on Tuesdays and Thrusdays at the JJE Center Gymnasium in Florissant beginning Jan. 6, 2015 from 9 – 11 a.m. for adults 18 and older. The price for residents is $2 and for nonresidents $3. All equipment will be provided. A free clin-

ic will be held on Jan. 6 by Kathy Westerbeck, St. Louis Pickleball Ambassador. Jan. 8: Free lecture American Association of University Women (AAUW) Ballwin-Chesterfield presents “Boost Your Brain Power” by speaker Diane Ray, Vice President of St. Luke’s Hospital at Trinity Lutheran Church at 14088 Clayton Road (at Clayton & 141) in Chesterfield. Coffee and socializing begin at 8:45 a.m. followed by a business meeting, 9:30 a.m. and then the program from 10:15 - 11:45 a.m. Jan. 9: Holiday Weight Loss “Healthy Living for Seniors” series offered by Mid-East Area Agency on Aging and the St. Louis County Library at the Florissant Valley Branch from 10 - 11a.m. Jan. 9: Chicken fried steak dinner Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois from 5 – 8 p.m. All profits go to support veterans. 314-831-6121. Jan. 10: Flea Market Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Contact Richard at 314-837-7057. Jan. 10: Breakfast Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois from 8 – 10 a.m. All profits go to support veterans. 314-831-6121.

Jan. 11: BB gun meat shoot Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois starts at 1 p.m. All profits go to support veterans. 314-831-6121. Jan. 12: Activities for Healthy Living “Healthy Living for Seniors” series offered by Mid-East Area Agency on Aging and the St. Louis County Library at the Florissant Valley Branch from 10 - 11a.m. Jan. 13: Free lecture The American Association of University Women, together with the Tuesday Women’s Association of the Ethical Society, will host a free lecture “The End of the Ottoman Empire, Creation of the Modern Middle East” by Dr. Tahmineh Entessar, at 10:45 a.m. at the Ethical Society of St. Louis, located at 9001 Clayton Rd. Jan. 14: Karaoke Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois from 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. All profits go to support veterans. 314-831-6121. Jan. 16: Pork Steak Dinner Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois from 5 – 8 p.m. All profits go to support veterans. 314-831-6121. Jan. 16: Heart Healthy Cooking “Healthy Living for Seniors” series offered by Mid-East Area Agency on Aging and the St. Louis County Library at the Florissant Valley Branch from 10 - 11a.m. Jan. 17: Texas hold ‘em $10.00 buy in with great prizes. Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois starts at 5 p.m. All profits go to support veterans. 314-831-6121. Jan. 23: Hamburger and fries Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois from 5

– 8 p.m. All profits go to support veterans. 314-831-6121. Jan. 23: Healthy Substitutions for Cooking and Baking “Healthy Living for Seniors” series offered by Mid-East Area Agency on Aging and the St. Louis County Library at the Florissant Valley Branch from 10 - 11a.m. Jan. 26: Exercise at Any Age “Healthy Living for Seniors” series offered by Mid-East Area Agency on Aging and the St. Louis County Library at the Florissant Valley Branch from 10 - 11a.m. Jan. 28: Karaoke Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois from 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. All profits go to support veterans. 314-831-6121. Jan. 30: All you can eat chicken dinner Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois from 5 – 8 p.m. All profits go to support veterans. 314-831-6121. Jan. 30: Medication Safety, Storage and Management “Healthy Living for Seniors” series offered by Mid-East Area Agency on Aging and the St. Louis County Library at the Florissant Valley Branch from 10 - 11a.m. Feb. 3 and 10: Introduction to Square Dancing Free introduction to Modern Western Square Dancing for couples and singles of all ages begins Feb 3 and 10, 2015, from 7 - 8:30 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, 14088 Clayton Rd., southeast corner of Clayton Rd and Hwy 141. Following the free introduction, the program continues on Tuesdays for $5 per person. Children ages 8-18 are free with paying adult. No experience necessary. Wear casual clothes. Good fellowship and great fun. Contact Jack and Mary Ann

Marincel at 314-894-2567, momarincel@gmail.com or visit www. westcountyspinners.com. Recurring Events Mondays: Karaoke at DeLeo’s Cafe & Deli 2782 North Hwy 67, Florissant, 8 10:30pm, 314.839.3880. 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. 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.

www.mycnews.com • Community News • December 31, 2014 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 Lisa Erlinger at 314.653.5331. 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. Every Friday: The Bridge at Florissant Hot Diggity Dog Build your own hot dog. 11:30am, The Bridge at Florissant, 1101 Garden Plaza Dr. in Florissant. To RSVP, call 314.831.0988. Last Saturdays: Writers Workshop: 10am - 1:30pm, Baden Liberary, 8448 Church Rd., 314.388.2400 Every Sunday beginning Sept. 28: Meat Shoots Noon until Dusk. Florissant Elks Lodge #2316, 16400 New Halls Ferry Rd. in Florissant. For more information, call 314.921.2316 Every Sundays: 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 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 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. 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. Every Monday, Health Tips With Mary Swip 11am,. The Bridge at Florissant, 1101 Garden Plaza Drive in Florissant. Sales Director Mary Swip will have a guest speaker come talk about health and wellness tips All Bridge events are free, but require reservations. Please RSVP by calling 314.831.0988. Now: 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-theart 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. 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 121124, 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.

SUDOKU answers from page 8

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. Third Tuesdays: Alzheimer’s Association At Lutheran Senior Services at Hidden Lake, 10 – 11am, 11728 Hidden Lake Dr., St. Louis, 314.292.7504 Diabetes Basics: 314.344.7024 for info 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 Nutrition Education: SSM DePaul registered dieticians can help you make sure your diet is right for you, 314.344.6157 Group at Christian Hospital To register call 314.747.9355 Tuesdays: Alcohol and Drug Information Meeting Christian Hospital Building 2, Suite 401, 6:30 – 8pm, 314.839.3171, free and open to the public.

What’s Happening

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

information. SSM DePaul Wellness Center: Classes available on strength training, nutrition and smoking cessation, 314.344.6177

Wednesdays: STEPS Schizophrenia Support Group 6:30 - 7:30pm, 314.839.3171. Center for Senior Renewal: Day treatment programs for older adults dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, loss and early signs of dementia, 314.653.5123.

SSM St. Joseph Hospital Healthy Happenings 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

Christian Hospital Recovery Center: Outpatient mental health and substance abuse treatment for adults, 314.953.8100.

Speaker’s Bureau: SSM speakers available for organizations, clubs, community and church groups for up to one hour free of charge, 636.949.7159

Volunteers Needed at Christian Hospital: Call 314.653.5032 SSM DePaul Healthy Happenings

Ongoing Support Groups

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.

Wednesdays: TOPS #361 Florissant Meetings 10 –11am, Bethel United Church of Christ, 14700 New Halls Ferry Rd., 314.831.5808. Group support to lose weight. Everyone welcome.

Diabetes Self-Management Training: Call 314.344.7220

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

Sundays: Support Group for Women Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse 6:30 - 8pm, 7401 Delmar Ave. in University City, 314.993.5421.

Smoking Cessation Classes: Free ongoing 8-week sessions, 866. SSM.DOCS to register or for more

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2014-2015 SPECIAL SECTIONS Everything Automotive

Automobile buying and selling, repair, automotive insurance and more

Powerful Readership Equals Powerful Results

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Wedding Guide

Guide to creating your perfect day. Halls, caterers, dress shops and much more 2014: 11/12

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Vacation Guide

Hotels, admission, travel and everything you need for the perfect Missouri Vacation 2015: 5/27, 7/1, 8/19, 10/14

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Holiday Shopping Guide Be an Expert in Your Field Limited Educational Article Space Available

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Healthy Living Digest

Focuses on all things health related (Fitness, Doctors, Dentists, Chiropractors, Hospitals, Nutrition and more) Here’s to your health! 2014: 12/31

2015: 1/14, 1/28, 6/3, 12/30

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Everything from home buying and selling, mortgage and title companies and more 2015: 2/11, 3/11, 4/15, 7/15

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r 14, 2007 Novembe 46 Vol. 86 No.

ON C RAZY

Inside...C OUP

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Annual The 16th Fair Women’s , Fit will be Fun us! and Fabulo

Fair Women’s By Shelly A.

U FAB

July 11, 2007

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Movie Talk

Spor ..... ........ Cheese . . 16 7 . . . . ... ........ 6 ...... St. Peters........... Better You 9 ........ It’s About .. 17 ...... 10 2139 Bryan...................... Movie Review Valley Commer cial23Dr. • O’Fallon .22, , MO 63366 eds ...................... P: 636.379.1775

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COMMUNITY NEWS

COMMUNITY NEWS - St. Charles County

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

CROSSROADS MAGAZINE

addresses in its service area, plus online subscribers. It is a

Wentzville and Lake St. Louis areas. It is direct mailed with

commerce news plus articles on the economy, technology, human resources, and marketing.

plus online subscribers.

First published in 1921, Community News is the longest published weekly newspaper in the St. Louis metropolitan area and has established a large audience of loyal readers. Community News circulates across a broad geographic region with newstands, home throw and online subscription.

Published weekly with a powerful circulation combination of newsstands, home throw, and online subscription. The St. Charles County edition features countywide coverage including the cities of: St. Charles, St. Peters, Cottleville, Weldon Spring, O’Fallon, Dardenne Prairie, Lake St. Louis, and Wentzville, plus Troy.

This monthly lifestyle magazine covers the’N fast-growing Published bi-monthly, Our Town is direct mailed to all business Our FREE publications are available in over 500 convenient locations, including every Dierbergs, Schnucks and Shop Save. -

Vol 9 No 28

Missouri is home to about mosquitoes. Some live less 50 species of while others than may live several a week, months. Community Health and ment states the Environ it is only the female mosqui that “bites” and she does to so blood meal needed to lay to obtain the viable eggs. While mosqui more than drive toes usually do little the family from doors to the the outindoors, they carriers of are sometim dangerous es d isea may contrac t malaria, yellowses. Humans gue, and encepha fever, denlitis; and dogs heartworm. may get Most of these the exceptio diseases, with n of canine heartwo human encephalitis and rm, have been eliminated fairly well from Health officials the entire United States. said outbrea to borne encepha ks of mosqui litis have periodic occurred in ally Missou “Canine heartwori. rm is an problem, with endemic costs to ers escalatin animal owng each warned. “Effecti year,” health officials measures includinve mosquito control g the elimina swamp areas, tion of to keep road and maintenance efforts ditches clear have done and much to control water free mosquito for disease transmission.”

S LOU

Schneider

C o o li n g It

Shelly A. Schneid

FIT!FUN!

o busy, e it gets to to dies, befor is the time corner. La for you. Now ovement and take a day impr se for selffun in the set a cour and to have s self-awareness n will find the answer process! Wome health, family, career, ns on the 2007 at to questio , and more image, fashion – Fun, Fit, and FabuSt. Fair Nov. 17, at Women’s ay, for Saturd . lous – set unity College Charles Comm in partnership the college St. Joseph sented by ey and SSM take with JCPenn -Hospital West, will StuHealth Center a.m.-3 p.m. in the 8:30 Campus, 4601 place from on the SCC ille. dent Center in Cottlev Mall Drive the area Mid Rivers throughout reWomen from day of education, for a will gather and fun, includfood, laxation, prizes,eminars, a fashion show than 50 ing nine mini-s r, and more speake e ts and serand keynot ing produc vendors display vices. a continental seminars and and s exhibit a fashion tickets include urse cial $20 VIP speaker, and full-co e in show, keynot Grappa Grill and catered by luncheon st, exhibits, the breakfa consecutive addition to For the fourththe lunchtime seminars. ey will host ages year, JCPenn with styles for all fashion show,

Follow the se tips to kee p your family and pets safe from mosquitoes . Mosquito Sea son By

IN THIS ISSUE

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By Joe Morice

Over the Fence

Things I Miss Once again, it’s New Year’s. It makes us older folks miss things from long ago when we were young and our whole lives were in front of us. It was a simpler time when our population was about half what it is now and expectations were less. Houses were smaller, cars rarely had air-conditioning and families usually owned only one. St. Louis had safe public transportation that actually worked well. My list of the things I miss the most from the past hasn’t changed: • Locally owned newspapers sold at intersections. • Front porches where residents sat and gabbed with neighbors and waved at passersby. • Beat cops that knew everybody in the neighborhoods. • Sports announcers that announced the games instead of reading insignificant player statistics between oodles of commercials. • Movies without car chases, unlikely gun fights, robotic killers, blood and gore and charisma-challenged, unshaven stars. • Lakes not overwhelmed with multi-storied condos, boat docks every few feet and multi-engine boats the size of semis. • Drug stores with soda fountains. • Local diners instead of fast-food chains • Locally owned hardware and grocery stores. • Businesses that didn’t sell out or were forced to sell out to corporate monopolies. • Kids that mowed lawns and delivered newspapers from bicycles. • Doctors that made house calls. • TV news commentators that read the news without pretending they’re at an office party. • News media that exposed crooked politicians and power mongers. Where are the Edward R Murrows and the Woodwards and Bernsteins? • TV without multitudinous advertising that makes viewing intolerable. • Radio music stations that play music without incessant advertising and DJ’s that sound like fawning groupies. • Kids playing ball outdoors instead of texting each other from darkened bedrooms. • The sound of rain on a tin roof. • Family farms before they were swallowed by huge corporations. • The sound of birds chirping and roosters crowing at dawn. • Eggs from hens that scratch about outdoors. • Home-cooked fried chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy and corn-on-the-cob fresh from the garden.

• Neighborhoods where children were safe when they walked to the school bus or visited friends. • The smell and sound of a summer thunderstorm marching across the countryside. • The chirping of crickets on a summer evening. • The unobstructed view of stars after dark. • The smell of fresh mown hay. • Fishing with a cane pole in a nearby stream clean enough to drink from. • Sock hops at high schools without fear of gangs and violence. • Churches without power and money hungry clergy. • Politicians that didn’t sell their votes to fund their campaigns. • Police that weren’t revenue tools of politicians. • Jobs that paid enough to raise families. • Small towns bustling with activity before big box stores invaded. • Sleigh-riding down a nearby hill after a winter snow storm. • Wood stoves with tops glowing red on cold winter days. • Ice skating on a frozen pond or creek. • Going to a single theatre to see first run movies preceded by news clips and cartoons that were actually funny. • Gasoline for twenty cents per gallon. • A job well done providing better satisfaction than abusing drugs and more important than money and power. • Tolerance of other races, creeds, colors, religions and political views. Some of these, especially the last one, were a problem back in those days as well as now but the ugliness hadn’t overwhelmed the naivety levels yet. I admit that level of naivety gave us Indians riding around circled wagons until they got shot, Old West six-guns that shot fifty times without reloading and good guys who wore white hats. Obviously, there are things we don’t miss…or shouldn’t. Naivety may be one of them. Happy New Year…I hope. Joe Morice is Community News’s blue-collar philosopher. He was born and raised in Missouri and spent most of his childhood on a farm and adulthood operating heavy equipment. He has no formal training as a writer, unless a lifetime of writing about any and everything counts. The opinions expressed in this column are Joe Morice’s alone and do not reflect the opinion of the owners or staff of Community News.

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