February 7, 2018
Bringing hope to the homeless
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Warren County Senior Center receives Cuivre River Electric Cooperative grant. P.4 Play and Learn with St. Charles county parks. P.5 Free tax prep available for low and moderateincome households. P.5
School WSD students artwork showcased at SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital. P.8 Francis Howell School District establishes lunch heroes program. P.8
Learn & Play Photo by Brett Auten Sts. Joachim and Ann Social Service staff members (from left) Kirsten Lacroix, Juanita Schultz, and Laura Steinhoff prepare to take goods out to the homeless as part of the Street Outreach Program. The Street Outreach Program began in April 2016 with case managers reaching out to those in need where they are.
Sts. Joachim and Ann Care Service’s Street Outreach Program seeks out the homeless and brings basic needs to them By Brett Auten An offshoot of a long-established, longtime main player in homeless services in the tri-county area is trying to ease the homeless situation one visit at a time. Sts. Joachim and Ann Care Service launched the Street Outreach Program in April 2016 to not only serve those in crisis but also reduce homelessness. The program came from a need to assist, in particular, single men in St. Charles, Lincoln and Warren counties who are homeless and providing them with an array of basic needs, case management, housing options and access to health care. The Street Outreach Program works like this: a staff member either seeks out, or has already identified and built a relationship with, an individual who is unsheltered to identify their needs, which could be aplenty; from simple housing, food, clothing, or in some cases, medical attention. “In those early days, we were out in the woods, walking along the river banks,” Laura Steinhoff said. “It has really evolved, grown and thrived and have seen lot of these guys actually housed.” Building the must-needed trust is not
something that can be done overnight. It takes being there, rain or shine – both in actuality and metaphorically. “It has taken weekly visits and I meet them right where they are,” Steinhoff said. “I meet them when they’re drinking. I meet them when they’re sad. And I meet them when they’re sober and happy. I’m there every week, sometimes twice a week and I have just built this relationship with them. It used to be when I pulled up, and they would kind of scatter. Now it’s like, ‘Laura’s here.’ So now it’s good and some of them are the kindest, most gentle human beings I have met in my life.” SSM Health St Joseph Hospital – St Charles agreed to partner with the Care Service. A St. Joseph Hospital emergency medical technician, nurse or other health care professional accompanies case managers on outreach visits to provide medical and psychiatric support, performing anything from checking vitals or tending dress wounds to the need emergency care. “We provide these important resources to groups within our community who are most in need,” Mike Bowers, president of SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital – St. Charles, said. “It’s our hope that serving
these people in a proactive manner will help lead them to healthy and stable lifestyles.” The spirit of the Street Outreach Program is that you cannot wait for those who are already in crisis to find their way to care or information. Although other organizations operate street outreach programs for youth and veterans, according to Pam Struckhoff, Director of Programs, there are no other efforts of this kind in the area for single men. Struckhoff said that a street outreach program that works primarily with single men is something the community has wanted but until now has never been able to achieve. Looking forward, Struckhoff would like to work with other health systems and have more landlords buy into the “housing first” concept. Continue to grow and house people we have and get most vulnerable off the street and make tri-county a better place The Care Service currently manages six transitional properties in which clients are monitored extensively on all aspects of being a good tenant. See ‘HOMELESS’ page 2
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February 7, 2018 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
‘HOMELESS’ Continued from cover Struckhoff spoke of the need for more affordable housing. “A duplex would be great. An apartment building would be great,” she said. “We need housing that our families can afford. If we could get more properties to manage or help get people in.” The Outreach Team finds safety in num-
bers when charting potentially dangerous terrain. Steinhoff, an Air Force veteran, though, hasn’t felt the possibility of peril. “Not one time,” she said. “Because I feel this need is so great and it has really opened my eyes. I know all their stories. I know why they are where they are. And they’re all different. The hardest part is that I leave them.
I’ll see them next week or I’ll see them tomorrow. But I go home on the couch with my nice warm blanket and my mind starts thinking about them being out there. That’s probably the hardest part about this job.” For more information or to donate, contact the Sts. Joachim and Ann Care Service at 636-441-1302, ext. 263.
Summer Library Program Grant awarded to St. Charles CityCounty Library Missouri Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft announced that the St. Charles City-County Library has been awarded a Summer Library Program Grant of $16,485. “Libraries are an integral part of our communities, providing Missourians an opportunity to learn and grow through the wealth of knowledge and services they offer,” Ashcroft said. “Grants like the one St. Charles City-County Library will receive are important to ensuring our libraries have the resources they need to provide the best services and programs to their patrons.” The library will use the grant to conduct
a nine-week summer reading program for all ages. The program will focus on the importance of early literacy skills to parents of pre-readers and combat the “summer slide,” the tendency for students to lose some of the achievement gains they made during the previous school year, for schoolaged children. This will allow adults to set a strong standard for the importance of reading to children. The library will also provide story times, educational presenters and book discussions for their summer reading program. Summer Library Program Grants help li-
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braries expand opportunities for children, teens and adults to improve their reading skills. They also assist libraries in enriching summer learning experiences and enhancing opportunities to reach unserved summer populations. The Missouri State Library has approved a total of 66 grant applications in the 2018 fiscal year, totaling $620,846 in federal awards that the secretary’s office has distributed to libraries throughout Missouri. The grants are funded by the Library Services and Technology Act through the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services.
www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • February 7, 2018
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St. Charles County Council approves committee recommendation; names new park ‘Veterans Tribute’ The St. Charles County Council unanimously approved the name Veterans Tribute Park for the new park currently under construction between Pitman Hill and Kisker roads. The name was recommended to the council by a committee created to find an appropriate way to honor service men and women from St. Charles County who have been killed in action. The committee was formed after several residents spoke to the council last year, suggesting that the park be named to honor all or certain members of the military. The county council, as well as County Executive Steve Ehlmann agreed that they would like to see these heroes honored in an appropriate manner. “I want to thank all those from St. Charles County who served, or are serving our country,” said Ehlmann. “Your sacrifices do not go unnoticed or unappreciated, and we are honored to name this park for you, and for our fallen heroes.” The county is finalizing plans for a memorial garden at the site. Flags to honor the five branches of the armed forces, along with plants and trees, will create a flowing pathway that will end at a plaza where an American flag will fly. Preliminary plans are to move and rededicate the World War I monument presently located in front of the St. Charles County Historic Courthouse on Second Street in St. Charles, and incorporate it into the garden. Similar stone monuments will be created to recognize conflicts since World War I in which military from St Charles County have given their lives. They will all border the pathway to the garden. Veterans Tribute Park is 120 acres surrounded by residen-
www.Byerlyrv.com Image courtesy St. Charles County This artist’s rendering shows what the new Veterans Tribute Park will look like upon completion.
tial development and joins the St. Charles County Heritage Museum at Heritage Park in St. Peters, College Meadows near Cottleville, and the Youth Activity Park near Dardenne Prairie, as county parks in suburban settings. The land is being developed into a new park with amenities for residents of all abilities and expected to open later this year. “In 2014, we surveyed residents on what they would like to see in the park,” says Ryan Graham, Director of the St. Charles County Parks Department. “We held a public meeting to unveil conceptual plans and gather further feedback. This is going to be an amazing attraction for the community.” Highlights of the park include: • A walking and biking trail system -- a 1.6 mile trail on the perimeter of the park with smaller trails inside the property. • A destination playground for children of all abilities that encompasses social/emotional, physical, sensory, cognitive, and communication development. The playground is divided into zones: interactive water play featuring play
initiated by motion; music play; adventure play with climbing features; inclusive swings and a hillside slide. • Two lakes stocked with fish. • An off-leash dog park divided into small and large dog areas. • Three open-play fields encompassing six acres. • A 100-person signature picnic shelter overlooking one of the lakes and surrounded by a garden and another 50-person picnic shelter. The existing silo on the property is being preserved and integrated into the playground design. A boardwalk from the silo will span out into the park, allowing visitors to have a full scenic view from the top of a hill to the playground below. Initially, 90 acres of the park are being developed, with the remaining 30 acres reserved for future development. Estimated construction cost of the park is $7 million, which is covered by the county’s Parks Fund. Money from the fund is through a local use tax approved by voters in 1997, and is dedicated to park acquisition, development and operations.
St. Charles County Direct Support Professionals Conference to be held at SCC St. Charles Community College will host St. Charles County Direct Support Professionals Conference from 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. March 14 and March 15, in the Daniel J. Conoyer Social Sciences Building located on SCC’s campus in Cottleville. Both sessions cover the same material, so attend the day that works best for you. The event is open to all direct support professionals, families and caregivers of those with development disabilities. Keynote speakers Mike Berkson and Tim Wambach from Handicap This! will share their stories of help and support. Conference will cover topics include independent living, self-advocacy, de-escalation, accessing benefits, mind-
fulness, sensory integration, women and autism, acceptance for LGBQT individuals, the DSP as a professional and people first. Prices vary from $25-55: $25 for keynote and breakfast only; $35 early-bird registration for St. Charles County residents (ends Feb. 13); $45 early-bird registration for out of county residents (ends Feb. 13); prices increase by $10 ($45/$55) after Feb. 13. Funding for the conference is provided by the Development Disabilities Resources Board of St. Charles County. Support is provided by the Coalition of Service Providers of St. Charles County. For more information, call 636-922-8233.
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February 7, 2018 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
Warren County Senior Center receives Cuivre River Electric Cooperative grant The Cuivre River Electric Community Trust Board has awarded a $4,000 Operation Round Up grant to the Warren County Senior Center. The Operation Round Up grant comes at a time when the organization has had to adjust its budget due to rising expenses. For example, in recent weeks several repairs had to be made to the senior center building, located at 501 Ashland Ave. in Warrenton. “We have also seen an increased need for our meal services, and at the same time a significant decline in contributions,” Executive Director Lindsey Boehle said. The grant will support meal services. The senior center has been providing quality meals and helpful services to senior citizens since 1974. A hot meal is prepared and served each weekday, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. at the center. For homebound clients, meals are delivered to them any day the center is open.
The Warren County Senior Center’s mission is to assist the elderly in maintaining and/ or improving independence, minimizing or if possible eliminating the need for institutional care and providing a safeguard against potential abuse or neglect by providing friendship, education and nutritionally balanced meals. The senior center assists all senior citizens in Warren County. The Warren County Senior Center is both a nonprofit organization and a charitable organization. They are governed by a nine-member board and each member is elected to a threeyear term. The senior center operates with a four-person staff and many volunteers. To learn more about the Warren County Senior Center, please visit http://www.wcseniorcenter.org or call 636-456-3379.
Submitted photo The Warren County Senior Center was presented a $4,000 Operation Round Up grant for meal services. Pictured (from left) are Margie Cook, senior center volunteer; Lindsey Boehle, senior center executive director and John Deutch, Cuivre River Community Trust board member.
MDC offers free basic archery instructor training for teachers
Photo courtesy Missouri Department of Conservation Teachers learn archery skills during a Missouri National Archery in the Schools Program basic archery instructor training class.
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If you’re interested in boosting students’ self-esteem, improving focus, raising grades, and making kids want to go to school, there’s an activity that’s right on target to make all those things happen. Archery has been proven to do all of the above for students who participate in the Missouri National Archery in the Schools Program (MoNASP). The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) will hold a MoNASP basic archery instructor training class for teachers from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on March 8, at Westminster Christian Academy at 800 Maryville Centre Drive in Chesterfield. This is a free training class and is meant for teachers who are interested in incorporating MoNASP instruction into their school’s curriculum. Teachers must attend the entire training session to receive the Basic Archery Instructor (BAI) Certification. BAI training is required for schools to participate in MoNASP and to qualify for related grant money. MoNASP is taught as a twoweek unit during the school day and makes the school eligible to compete in a Na-
tional Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) tournaments on a local, state, national and international level. Schools must qualify for the NASP competitions. MoNASP is the Missouri branch of NASP, which provides the BAI Certification. NASP is a national program that teaches International style target archery to students in grades 4-12. Statistics show school archery programs improve school attendance, increase participants self-esteem and physical activity, helps kids relate to learning subject matter and gets them outdoors to discover nature. Participants also learn an activity they can enjoy for the rest of their lives in the form of recreational target shooting or bow hunting. To register for the workshop, visit https://goo.gl/8Us4rp . For more information, contact MDC Outdoor Skills Specialist at Dennis.Cooke@mdc. mo.gov, or call 314-301-1500 ext. 4218. Registration deadline is Feb. 28. For more information about MoNASP, visit https://goo.gl/ SRxq7T.
www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • February 7, 2018
Play and learn with St. Charles County Parks The St. Charles County Parks and Recreation Department offers a variety of outdoor educational opportunities for schools, scouts, churches and other organizations throughout the year. Children ages four – 12 will discover nature and history in new and exciting ways when they participate in a group field trip in a county park. It’s easy to be a part of these unique experiences. Depending on the number of children in your group and staff availability, park activities may include a nature hike, learning about park history, exploring native plant and animal life in Missouri, discovering fishing, and learning about aquatic life and forest ecology. If you’re looking for a traditional park experience, choose one of our parks featuring natural- and paved-surfaced trails, interpretive areas, and water features for children to explore. The Certified Nature Explore Classroom at Towne Park has become a favorite destination due to its dynamic, nature-based play and learning space, which supports skill development in children by reconnecting them with the outdoors. Addi-
tional parks to consider are Broemmelsiek Park, Klondike Park, Indian Camp Creek Park and Quail Ridge Park. If your group is looking for a more cultural or traditional recreation experience, choose from The Historic Daniel Boone Home, Heritage Museum or the Youth Activity Park. These parks have exhibits, historical landmarks, rock climbing walls and more for children to enjoy. Educational Outreach Programs typically last a couple hours and are scheduled on a first-come, first-serve basis. The cost of each program may vary depending on the size of the group. A nominal fee per student will apply. Groups are encouraged to spend the rest of the day in the park after completing their activities with us. Whether it’s an end of the year celebration, or just a chance to spend the day outside and offcampus, our park outings are the perfect activities to schedule. Call the parks department at 636-949-7535 to register your group and let our park staff and volunteers guide your children through an outdoor experience they won’t forget.
Free tax preparation available for local lowand moderate-income households United Way 2-1-1 is partnering with local tax coalitions to provide free tax preparation services to St. Louis-area families with a household income of $54,000 or less in 2017. Last year, the partnership filed more than 18,700 tax returns in the St. Louis region, helping local low- and middle-income families receive nearly $18 million in tax refunds. “This partnership is a valuable resource for the community as the local tax coalitions help thousands of people in the St. Louis region,” said Debbie Irwin, community economic development director, United Way of Greater St. Louis. “Working families often struggle to save or make ends meet. We hope that the free services available through our partnership will alleviate a financial burden for a number of families this tax season.” United Way’s tax coalition partners include Metropolitan St. Louis Community Tax Coalition, Gateway EITC Community Coalition, National Association of Black Accountants, and St. Louis Tax Assistance Program. In 2017, 657 volunteers worked through the coalitions to provide services for the region, helping local households save more than $5 million in tax preparation services. The coalitions also focus on bringing awareness to local individuals and families who qualify to receive a refund through the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), a federal tax credit designed
to help people increase their financial stability. The average national EITC refund in 2016 was more than $2,470. According to the IRS, in 2017, more than 25 million workers and families nationwide received over $65 billion in EITC. Anyone interested in receiving tax preparation help and who is eligible under the $54,000 household income threshold may contact United Way by dialing 2-1-1 or visit www.211helps.org for information on qualifications, locations, dates and a list of documents required for services. Sites operate on an appointment or walk-in basis. The following locations, dates and times are available for Saturday walk-in sites; call 2-1-1 for hours of operation. For all other locations and times, individuals may call 2-1-1. United Way provides information and referral to all free income tax sites in the greater St. Louis region through its United Way 2-1-1 call center.
Around Town
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Super Saturday Sites (no appointment necessary) St. Charles County First Baptist Church – Harvester 4072 Old Highway 94 South, St. Charles Lewis and Clark Career Center 2400 Zumbehl Rd., St. Charles Spencer Road Branch Library 427 Spencer Road, St. Peters
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February 7, 2018 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
ATHENA Leadership Awards seeking nominations
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ATHENA Leadership Foundation of St. Charles County is now seeking nominations for its Annual Leadership Awards, being held on May 2. For more than 30 years, the ATHENA Leadership Foundation of St. Charles County has honored women in our community whose leadership has had a significant impact on their business, industry, community and the people around them. ATHENA has also been honored to award organizations who create, support and promote a culture of strong professional business women through programs and policy. Nominations are open and the process is simple. Nominate a deserving leader or organization by visiting, www.athenasaintcharles.org. Nomination deadline is Feb. 16. ATHENA Leadership Award winners will be honored at the Annual ATHENA Leadership Awards Luncheon on May 2 at the St. Charles
Convention Center. The awards luncheon is the grand finale of the Leadership Summit hosted by ATHENA each year. To purchase tickets or become a sponsor for the Awards Luncheon or Summit, please visit www.athenasaintcharles.org. ATHENA is encouraging and accepting nominations in three award categories: • The ATHENA Leadership Award (1 recipient annually) • The ATHENA Young Leadership Award (up to 2 recipients) • The ATHENA Organization Award (1 recipient) ATHENA leaders are business women, who are instrumental in building economically healthy, robust and vibrant communities and families. ATHENA is an international non-profit organization that seeks to support, develop and honor women leaders.
St. Louis Teen Talent Competition kicks off its eighth year
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The Eighth Annual St. Louis Teen Talent Competition will begin Feb. 17 and Feb. 18 with 170 performers taking the stage in the preliminary round of competition. “We are thrilled with the ongoing response to this event from students, parents, arts organizations and the community. The Fox Performing Arts Charitable Foundation is happy to be able to provide the opportunity for students to perform at the Fox and on other stages around St. Louis. We’re delighted that we are able to put talented young people in the spotlight,” said Mary Strauss, President of the Fox Performing Arts Charitable Foundation (FoxPACF) Board of Directors. This year’s entries represent 69 schools in the bi-state metropolitan area, plus homeschoolers, and includes acts showcasing a variety of talents including baton twirling, martial arts, aerial arts, juggling, spoken word, acting, dancing, singing and a punk rock band. Acts may include up to six students performing as a group and can perform original or published material. Students in this competition are vying for more than $40,000 in college scholarships, cash awards, and prizes as well as performance opportunities. In addition to the First Place $8,000, Second Place $6,000, and Third Place $4,000 scholarships awarded at the Final Round, restricted scholarship opportunities to Southeast Missouri State University and Webster University will also be available to students taking part in the competition. Each finalist will also be eligible for unique public performance opportunities within the St. Louis area.
Finalists from the past six years have performed at The Muny, Shakespeare Festival St. Louis, Chamber Music Society of St. Louis, Webster Groves Art & Air Fair, Taste of Maplewood, St. Louis African Arts Festival, Winter Opera St. Louis, and the Rising Stars Showcase. Judges for both the preliminary and semi-final rounds of competition are professionals representing a cross-section of the St. Louis performing arts community and entertainment industry who give constructive performance advice to each act individually. Each round of competition will have a panel of at least four judges who will adjudicate and advance acts to the next round. The two days of preliminary competition, at Robert G. Reim Theatre (Kirkwood) and Logan University (Chesterfield), will narrow the field from 128 to 36 acts. These acts will then compete in the semi-finals on March 25 at Kirkwood High School – Keating Center where the final 12 acts will be chosen to compete onstage at The Fabulous Fox Theatre as part of a professionally produced production, adjudicated by both St. Louis and national performing arts professionals on April 28. This final event is free and open to the public. Registration for this competition was free and open to all high school students in the St. Louis Metropolitan area. Contestants must be enrolled in the ninth through 12th grades in the 2017-2018 school year and must attend a high school/home school within a 50-mile radius from the Arch in all directions.
www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • February 7, 2018
Around Town
Yeggs
John Hanna
By John M Hanna ‘Yeggs’ is a comic series about Robert and Bill, two rabbits who have opened their own egg franchise in the Midwest (St. Louis area). We follow their day to day lives, watching as they go about the hectic task of preparing for their one big day every year. Along the way they have adventures filled with fun, comic doings and pathos.
Moore On Life
By Cindy Moore
– 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.
Along came a spider My husband had one job to do…just one. Not a list of multiple honey dos such as, take out the garbage; open the pickle jar; here smell this and tell me if it’s rotten. No! That would have required an office assistant to keep track of the multiple duties, and it would have deleted too much time out of his football-watching season. So instead, I lowered my expectations and gave him one teensie, weensie thing to do and then he would be free to go back to his life’s passion. It began like this: “A-a-a-argh!” I shrieked out in my best I’m-being-eatenby-zombies voice. “There is a Godzilla-sized, multiple legged, many-eyeballed insectoid on my ceiling. It has crab-claw sized mandibles and is getting ready to spit face-eating acid at my head! Help!” Crickets. From the depths of my husband’s man-cave, “TOUCHDOWN!” I marched downstairs and stood in front of his flat screen blocking out the field goal kick. “Hey! What’s the big idea?” he barked. “I’ll tell you what the big idea is. I almost got murdered up-
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stairs. I screamed for help and got nothing, nada-doodykins! That’s what!” “You look pretty unmurdered to me right now.” I grabbed the remote and put the game on pause then dropped it down into the unknown depths of my brassier and gave it a pat. “You’ll get this after you finish your assignment.” Eye roll. “Now what? Do you want me to taste the cottage cheese to see if it’s still edible?” “No. Grab your gun. There’s a giant intruder in the bedroom.” I ignored his mocking laughter. We entered the room and I pointed upward. “There! Kill!” He gave it a once over and said, “Ya, that’s a biggun!” “Hello? Why do you think I’ve been screaming my lungs out up here? Now make mashed potatoes out of that ugly sucker and be sure you squish the egg-sac or we’ll have its nasty bug-eyed children running all over the place!” He grabbed a tissue and positioned himself directly under the mammoth beast and prepared to punch, pinch and twist. But too late; I detected hesitation. A moment of little-girl fear
penetrated his manly, muscular, maleness! For a nano-second he imagined the toothy jaws of the spider clenching down onto his hand and delivering a paralyzing shot of poison into his thumb. He let out a tiny gasp. The spider took the opportunity and flung down on its escape strand of silk. It then scuttled off underneath the safety of the floorboards. The demon creepy-crawly is still running loose in the bedroom, but fortunately I am armed with a sturdy remote control at all times to pound it lifeless should it resurface. Cindy Moore is the mother of three superlative kids, servant of two selfindulgent 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.
See solution on page 13
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School
February 7, 2018 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
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WSD student artwork showcased in SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital art display
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Photo courtesy Wentzville School District SSM Health and the Wentzville School District have partnered to showcase student artwork in a new display called “The Art of Healing” at St. Joseph Hospital in Lake St. Louis.
SSM Health and the Wentzville School District have partnered to showcase student artwork in a new display called “The Art of Healing” at St. Joseph Hospital in Lake St. Louis. The Art of Healing gallery includes artwork created by WSD students in kindergarten through 12th grade. Art teachers from each school selected the pieces to represent their building. “We are so excited to pair with SSM to provide a space for patients, families and staff to brighten their day with bright, cheery, original student artwork,” shared Hester Menier, WSD Lead Art Teacher who works at Stone Creek Elementary. “Hopefully it will help them leave the difficulties of the world behind and spread a
little joy like only art can do.” Students whose artwork was chosen for the display were invited to a reception on Jan. 23 at the hospital to kick off what will become a rotating exhibit of student-created art. “SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital – Lake Saint Louis is proud to celebrate our neighbors. The art these students have created will bring calm to nervous patients, relief to their weary family members and smiles to our employees,” said Lisle Wescott, Hospital President. “We want this campus to be a living, breathing part of the community. Anytime we can invite you through our doors for a positive experience like celebrating the art of local students, we will always be eager to take part.”
Francis Howell School District establishes lunch heroes program
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The Francis Howell School District recently established a Lunch Heroes program to help support students and families who are struggling to provide funds for purchasing a nutritious school lunch. The Lunch Heroes program is a way for individuals to make donations to support students when they no longer have sufficient funds in their accounts to pay for meals. Thanks to generous donations from our community, more than $6,000 has been raised since the program started in December. “Every child deserves to have a healthy nutritious lunch regardless of his or her economic status,” said Dr. Mary Hendricks-Harris, FHSD Superintendent. “Being hungry has an enormous impact on a student’s ability to learn and concentrate in class, and we want to ensure that students have the fuel they need.” A typical school lunch costs about $50 a month per student. Annually, FHSD incurs about $10,000 in debt from students
unable to pay for lunch. This year, we have seen an increase in the number of students with negative balances, as well as larger negative balances. Even with negative lunch account balances, the district’s food service program is able to operate on a profitable basis. By law, these funds are separate from the district’s general operating budget and can only be spent on the food service program. The money raised through the Lunch Heroes program will help reduce these outstanding balances and ensure that all students receive a nutritious meal. Parents, staff, and community members can all make donations to the Lunch Heroes program through the district website: https://fhsdschools. revtrak.net/lunch-hero-donation/#/list. Donations can be made to a particular school or as a general donation to the district, which will allow funds to be used where they are most needed. Families with children graduating or leaving the dis-
trict can also opt to donate the remaining balance of their student’s account to the Lunch Heroes program. FHSD works to educate parents and guardians about our lunch program, policies, and financial obligations throughout the school year. Parents receive electronic and written communication once their student’s account has a negative balance, reminding them to add funds. Additionally, families are encouraged to apply for free/reduced meals if they are experiencing financial hardship. This application can be completed at any time, not just at the beginning of the school year. A family of four qualifies for free/ reduced priced meals if they make approximately $45,500 a year or less, but some families who make more than that still struggle to pay for school lunches. Currently, about 18 percent of FHSD families participate in the free/reduced meals program.
www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • February 7, 2018
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The Give Kids A Smile organization hosts semiannual free dental care clinic for up to 600 kids its. Preventative care in one of the semiannual clinics can help eliminate unnecessary ER costs and visits that will still require a trip to the dentist. Also vital to the success of the two-day clinic is the sign-up opportunities for non-dentist volunteers. Volunteering dentists as well as non-dentists are asked to call 636-397-6453 to sign-up. Steen states, “No specialized training is needed for those lay volunteers, just a willingness to serve as needed, escorting chilSubmitted photos dren, reading stories and creatPatients and volunteers participate in a previous Give Kids A Smile event that provides free ing a fun atmosphere. Individudental care to children across the St. Louis region. als, small groups, teams and organizations seeking service By Charlotte Beard do our best to make arrange- opportunities are encouraged to ments to have that child see consider volunteering on Feb. 9 While many of us take going a dentist outside of the clinic and/or 10.” to the dentist for granted, for who’s willing to help them.” Clinic workers are needed on some families in our region, it is Steen shared that the pre- either or both clinic days 7:30 a luxury they cannot afford. En- scheduled appointments will be a.m. – 4 p.m. Volunteers are also ter Give Kids A Smile. spread over the course of the needed to help set up on Thurs“We’ve had situations where two days. They can serve 50 to day, Feb. 8 from 4:30 – 8 p.m. parents have lost their jobs,” 60 children at one time. There is also an opportunity to shared Erica Steen. Steen, the Dr. Fernandez (who didn’t help pack-up on Saturday from Executive Director for the Give wish to disclose his first name), 1 – 4 pm. In addition to calling Kids a Smile organization pro- one of the dentists who has the number above, all volunteers vided scenarios they might en- been volunteering since 2003, can visit www.gkas.org. counter with parents experienc- has provided dental restorative Steen provided details of the ing financial difficulties. “[The care. He spoke to the process in appointment day process for parents] lost their dental insur- cases where a child might need parents and children arrival at ance, but maybe they’re looking to be referred to care outside the SLU. for a job and they haven’t gotten clinic. “When the children get there, the kids signed up for Medic“When oral surgery is men- they [will] go through a registraaid yet. Or, [there might be] a tioned that’s just another way tion process, just like you would tough financial situation, where of saying that teeth need to be at a normal dentist’s office,” someone calls and pleads their removed. That can be done in Steen said. “The volunteers will case [because] they might not be the clinic with local anesthetic. walk [them to] the area where able to afford [dental care], even The referral doesn’t imply that they learn how to properly brush though they have the insurance. this is too complex or compli- their teeth, where they have the They [are aware] that the dental cated to do in a clinic. [It’s con- x-rays done, and into the area work that needs to be done [for sideration for] the child [not [where] they will see the dentist the child] will be above and be- tolerating] this treatment being and the hygienist. Once they’re yond their financial means.” done with just a local anesthetic. done with their appointments, The Give Kids A Smile orga- Sometimes due to anxiety they the volunteers will then escort nization is hosting its semian- just won’t allow it…sometimes them to a party room where nual free dental care clinic for it’s with the younger kids but their parents will be.” up to 600 kids on Friday, Feb. 9 [other times] the older kids will Steen also shared that there and Saturday, Feb. 10 at the St. not allow anyone to go into their will be interactive games for the Louis University (SLU) Center mouths,” he said children. for Advanced Dental Education He explained the referral is “We just really want to make located on 3320 Rutger Street. to allow the child to receive the sure it’s a chance for them to The focus for this free event are treatment with just general an- relax and to know that yes, you toddlers and children up to 14 esthesia. Fernandez stated that went to the dentist, and you years old who are Medicaid eli- sometimes there are extreme might have had some dental gible, qualify for the free school cases where a child may have a work done, but this is a safe lunch program, or need dental few or more cavities that require place to be in,” she said. assistance due to other circum- the child be subdued to remove Each child will be sent home stances. the teeth all at once. with a free healthy lunch and Parents who register their Fernandez also described smile bag that includes a toothchild for this Give Kids A Smile “Smile Factories” – a phrase brush, toothpaste, floss and a Clinic can expect service from coined for outside dental offices book courtesy of the St. Louis one of 250 local licensed den- that the Give Kids A Smile or- County Library Foundation. tists. The dentists volunteering ganization has identified as pro When Give Kids A Smile clinfor this event will provide x-rays, bono providers. These provid- ics are not functioning in Febprofessional cleanings, fluoride ers are limited to kids who at- ruary and October, the organitreatments, and sealants. For tended one of the organization’s zation of eight board members those who need it, other service free clinics but was not able to and two staff members hold two includes fillings, root canals and receive their care. fundraising events to support its oral surgery. “I also receive kids in my of- initiatives. One of those events is Steen stated of the schedules, fice as a ‘Smile Factory’ provid- a trivia night in May and a golf “We make the appointments for er,” he said. tournament in June. The orgathree hours each to make sure Fernandez cares for children nization is also supported by its that we can get as much dental at Pediatric Dentistry of Sunset investment of time in pursuing care done in the visit as possible. Hills. He wants parents to know grant funding and reaching out If there’s something extensive that the clinic can take care of to community members for supthat needs to be done that can’t a dental need that may often port. take place at the clinic, we will require emergency room vis“Thank goodness we have
some very supportive dentists in the area who volunteer their time,” expressed Steen, “but dental work is expensive. So, we need to make sure that even though the dentists are providing free care that we cover our supplies, our costs for the space, all the entertainers and all the other things that need to happen.” The organization provided free dental care for a little over 700 children in 2002 when it first began its clinics. The Give Kids A Smile concept was developed by Jeffrey Dalin, DDS; B. Ray Storm, DDS; Tom Flavin, DDS; Mark Ortinau, DDS
and Jan Storm. It’s been stated that the impact was so profound that the American Dental Association adopted the program in 2003 and is responsible for a nationwide program by the same name that has provided care to 5.5 million children. “The organization has evolved over the years,” Steen shared. “The community really comes out to help make a difference. We have dentists, hygienists, dental assistants and just regular community members who come out and give their time to make sure that these kids have a healthy smile.”
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Sports
February 7, 2018 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
THEME: VALENTINE’S DAY
ACROSS 1. Nerds 6. *Dad’s Valentine 9. *Seal with a kiss and do this 13. Marconi’s wireless telegraphy 14. Nightcap rocks 15. Relish tastebuds’ sensation 16. Fervor 17. “Le ____ des cygnes” 18. Togetherness 19. *Botanical Valentine’s Day gift, pl. 21. *Romantic taper 23. *Princess Jasmine’s love interest 24. Per person 25. Rub-a-dub-____ 28. Distressed cry 30. Asphalt alternative 35. Native-American storytelling tradition 37. Sound of impact 39. Royal headgear 40. Morally reprehensible 41. Type of rug 43. Tennis serving whiz 44. Painter’s support 46. Dust allergy trigger 47. It “was made for you and me” 48. *He played Lara Antipova’s lover, 1965 50. Swerve 52. Is, no longer 53. Fireplace part 55. Corn unit 57. *St. Valentine, e.g. 60. *Author of earliest Valentine’s Day reference 64. Chinese silk plant 65. Fluffy accessory 67. Window treatment 68. Change the Constitution 69. Annoying pop-ups 70. Implant 71. It can turn pumpkin into carriage 72. Fishing mesh 73. Relieves
DOWN 1. Steffi of tennis 2. “Me and ____ and the Dying Girl” 3. Cocoyam 4. Native of American Great Plains 5. Very much 6. 0.001 inches, pl. 7. Mozart’s “L’____ del Cairo” 8. Hajj destination 9. Head-hiding place 10. Bad to the bone 11. Post-it slip 12. Like some martinis 15. Broad-brimmed beachwear 20. Watts events, 1965 22. Make a scene 24. Hard to pin down 25. *Avian symbol of love, pl. 26. “Umble” Heep 27. Crafter’s wood 29. Impulse 31. Iranian coin 32. Cockatoo’s cousin 33. Rome’s Colosseum 34. *Paper greetings 36. Suggestive look 38. *Valentine’s Day Get-together 42. Medicinal worm 45. Up in the air 49. Tsetse, e.g. 51. Traveling entertainer’s helper 54. Opposite of rural 56. Aung San Suu Kyi’s home 57. Vicki Lawrence’s Thelma Harper 58. Echoed by the flock 59. Source of zest 60. Those in a play 61. Uber competitors 62. “The Three Musketeers” dueling sword 63. Bolsheviks 64. Like sashimi 66. Schiller’s “____ to Joy” See solution on pg. 13
Sports you see with Gary B... Staff photographer goes to Bahamas with the Early Valentine’s present brings premier LPGA soccer for women This year will be the inaugural season for the Women’s Premier Soccer League (WPSL) who along with the St. Louis Lions of the Premier Development League (PDL) is both owned by Champion Sports Management, Inc. (CSM). St. Louis soccer legend Tony Glavin and his partners founded (CSM) in 2005 to provide a professional setting for players that desire to excel and develop their soccer careers. “I’m very excited about adding the women’s side to our St. Louis Lions. This will be a great opportunity for many young women to participate from our local high school, colleges and youth clubs, not only in the St. Charles area but the entire St Louis region.” The independent league has over 100 clubs participating from all over the United States. Sean Jones, President of the WPSL said in a statement, “We are proud to welcome the St. Louis Lions to the WPSL’s “Heartland” conference to showcase great women’s talent in the St. Louis area.” The WPSL side will be coached by TGSC Assistant Club Director, Geoff Lorimier who has Photo by Ray Rockwell been with the club since 2001. Pictured are American’s Brittney Lincicome who won the tournaCheck out the brand new website at www. ment at 12 under par and Michelle Wie finishing tied for 11th. STLLionsWPSL.com. *A kickin’ good time for the females The Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) held a tournament in late January called the Pure Silk Tournament at the Ocean Club on River City Rascals baseball Paradise Island in the Bahamas. The River City club play their Ray Rockwell the Community News Staff Phohome games at Carshield Field tographer, received a gift last year on Father’s Day with the first game on May 4. from his family of six kids (Rob, Missy, Debby, For more information go to Denny, Tim and Stacie), that was a card with www.RiverCityRascals.com enough money for a Dream Trip, “We want you *Rascal baseball in 85 days to live out your dream and go to the LPGA in the Bahamas.” Rockwell with his grandson, Noah, attended a tournament in Decatur, Illinois in June where the Gary B. will be top10 players would qualify to play in the LPGA. broadcasting the “STL Little did he know he would be up close to these Health and Wellness LIVE” show every and many other professional women golfers. Saturday from 9-11 am With about a month before his departure, he on 590 The Fan and saw in the LPGA website a need for volunteers for 590TheFan.com the tournament. The “shuttle committee” drives Gary Baute, a St. Louis players from one hole to the next tee box. He apnative, may be educated in plied and was awarded another part to his dream business but he lives and trip. breathes sports. As a fan or Rockwell commented, “To have the players an athlete, Gary is all sports you’ve watched on TV sitting next to you in a golf all the time. He hosted a radio sports program on KFNS, cart is amazing. On the first day American profesemceed the River City Rassional Cheyenne Woods got into the cart and she cals’ inaugural season, and asked me, ‘how are you doing’? I said I’m living co-hosted SportsRadioSTL.com, among many the dream, she replied, ‘So am I.’ The players were other activities. all so friendly and talkative.” *Thanks Ray for sharing your Dream Vacation
www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • February 7, 2018
Recipe:
Learn & Play
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THROW A HOT-POT DINNER PARTY
Heat up your next get-together by inviting family and friends over to try a DIY trend, the hot-pot party. It can be easy to prep and your guests can enjoy cooking and customizing their own meals. First, prepare a rich, flavored broth and serve steaming-hot in a slow cooker or multi-cooker. Next,
offer a selection of meat, seafood and veggies for dunking. Cook for a few minutes then garnish with sauces and various toppings to match individual tastes. A traditional East Asian hot-pot broth is flavored with beef stock, soy sauce, chilies, ginger and garlic. Try a Mexican-inspired version by serving
a spiced chicken broth with ancho chile pepper, cumin and oregano, or offer a taste of the Caribbean with a coconut milk broth and fresh papaya pica sauce. Learn more about this hot-pot trend and all the latest flavor trends in McCormick’s 2018 Flavor Forecast at FlavorForecast.com.
Puebla Hot-Pot Broth with Avocado Crema Prep time: 45 minutes |Cook time: 45 minutes |Servings: 10
Asian Hot-Pot Broth with Tangy Chili Sauce Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 25 minutes |Servings: 10
Ingredients: Puebla Hot-Pot Broth: 3 tablespoons ancho chile pepper 2 teaspoons ground cumin 2 teaspoons oregano leaves 2 teaspoons smoked paprika 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 cup finely chopped white onion 6 cloves garlic, finely chopped 2 containers (32 ounces each) chicken stock 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes 2 ears fresh corn, shucked and cut into 1-inch rounds 2 tablespoons lime juice Avocado Crema: 1/2 medium avocado, peeled, pitted and coarsely chopped
I ngredients: Caribbean Hot-Pot Broth: 2 pounds smoked ham hocks 2 cups sliced yellow onions 1 cup diagonally sliced carrots 1/2 cup diagonally sliced celery 8 1/4 cups water, divided 1 container (32 ounces) chicken stock 1 whole chile pepper, such as Scotch bonnet or habanero 2 bay leaves 1 teaspoon thyme leaves 1 teaspoon ground turmeric 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper salt, to taste 2 tablespoons cornstarch 2 cans (13.66 ounces each) coconut milk 2 tablespoons lime juice Papaya Pica Sauce: 3 cups cubed fresh papaya 1/2 cup cider vinegar 1/4 cup chopped, seeded Scotch bonnet (chile pepper) 1/4 cup chopped yellow onion 1/4 cup yellow mustard 1 teaspoon sea salt 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1 pound uncooked bay scallops 1 pound uncooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup sour cream 1 tablespoon lime juice 1/4 teaspoon sea salt 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into thin strips 1 chayote, peeled and cut into matchsticks avocado, chopped (optional) fresh cilantro, chopped (optional) crunchy tortilla strips (optional)
minutes of cooking. Remove corn to plate. Stir lime juice into broth.
Directions: To make broth: In small bowl, mix chile pepper, ground cumin, oregano, paprika and salt. Set aside. In 6-quart stockpot on medium heat, heat oil. Add onion and garlic; cook and stir until softened. Stir in chicken stock, crushed tomatoes and 1/2 of seasoning mixture. Bring to boil. Reduce heat to low; simmer 20 minutes, adding corn during last 10
To serve, pour broth into heated 6-quart electric slow cooker or hot pot. Cook chicken and chayote in broth 4-5 minutes, or until cooked through, stirring occasionally.
cooked rice toasted shredded coconut (optional) fresh red or green bell pepper slices (optional) Directions: To make broth: Place ham hocks, onion, carrots and celery in 6-quart stockpot. Cook on medium heat 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add 8 cups water, chicken stock, chile pepper, bay leaves, thyme leaves, turmeric, allspice and pepper. Add salt, to taste. Bring to boil. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer 1 hour, skimming fat occasionally. Remove cover and simmer 30 minutes, skimming fat occasionally. Remove ham hocks and skim fat. In small bowl, whisk cornstarch and remaining water. Add to pot with coconut milk. Cook on medium heat 30 minutes. Skim fat. Stir lime juice into broth. To make Papaya Pica Sauce: In food processor on high speed, process papaya, vinegar, chile pepper, onion, mustard, salt, allspice, garlic powder, ginger and cloves until smooth. Transfer to medium saucepan. Bring to boil. Reduce heat to low; simmer, uncovered, 10-15 minutes. Pour into medium bowl. To serve, pour broth into heated 6-quart electric slow cooker or hot pot. Cook shrimp and scallops in broth about 5 minutes, or until cooked through, stirring occasionally. Place some rice in bowl then ladle broth and seafood over top. Stir in Papaya Pica Sauce and top with shredded coconut and pepper slices, if desired.
To make Avocado Crema: In food processor on high speed, process avocado, sour cream, lime juice, salt and garlic powder until smooth. Transfer to bowl; cover. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Coat chicken strips with remaining seasoning mixture.
Ladle broth with cooked chicken and vegetables into individual bowls. Top with Avocado Crema and avocado, fresh cilantro and tortilla strips, if desired.
Ingredients: Hot-Pot Broth: 2 teaspoons vegetable oil 1 large sweet onion, thinly sliced 2 containers (32 ounces each) beef stock 1/4 cup red curry paste 2 tablespoons reduced sodium soy sauce 1 tablespoon packed light brown sugar 1 tablespoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon ground ginger 2 tablespoons lime juice
Directions: To make broth: In 6-quart stockpot over medium-high heat, heat oil. Add onion; cook and stir until tender, about 3 minutes. Stir in beef stock, curry paste, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder and ginger. Bring to boil. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer 20 minutes. Stir lime juice into broth before serving.
Tangy Chili Sauce: 1/2 cup sweet red chili sauce 3 tablespoons lime juice 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced lo mein noodles, cooked assorted mushrooms, sliced (optional) baby bok choy, coarsely chopped (optional) crunchy Chinese noodles (optional)
To serve, pour broth into heated 6-quart electric slow cooker or hot pot. Cook steak in broth about 2-3 minutes, or until it reaches desired doneness.
To make Tangy Chili Sauce: In small bowl, mix red chili sauce and lime juice. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Place lo mein noodles in bowls then ladle broth and steak over top. Stir in Tangy Chili Sauce and top with mushrooms, baby bok choy and Chinese noodles, if desired.
Caribbean Hot-Pot Broth with Papaya Pica Sauce Prep time: 45 minutes | Cook time: 3 hours | Servings: 10
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What’s Happening
February 7, 2018 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
Send your event to editor@mycnews.com and we'll print it! EVENTS Feb. 9: Valentine dinner/dance
The eighth annual Valentine Dinner/ Dance and Silent Auction sponsored by Crossroads Clinic/Volunteers in Medicine will be held at The Christy Banquet Center at 9000 Veterans Memorial Pkwy in O’Fallon. Ticket includes dinner and open bar. Cost is $50 per person. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., dinner served at 7:30 p.m. and conclusion at 10:30 p.m. Please call 314-6506131 for tickets. Crossroads Clinic is a non-profit corporation located in Lake St. Louis and serves the medical needs of persons who are uninsured.
Feb. 9: Trivia night
The Child Center, Inc. will host its annual Superheroes for Kids Trivia Night at St. Peter Parish Center located at 301 First Capitol Dr. in St. Charles. Doors open at 6 p.m. and trivia starts at 7 p.m. For only $200 per table or $25 per person, each guest can look forward to 10 rounds of trivia, mulligans, beer, and soda; outside food and beverages are allowed. The evening will be packed with games, silent auction, 50/50, and prizes for the top teams. For more information or to register please visit www.thechildcenter/trivia or call 636332-0899 to reserve your team.
Feb. 10: Comedy night
Comedians K-Von and Corey Rodrigues will headline St. Charles Community College’s Comedy Night. The show begins at 7 p.m. in the theater of the Donald D. Shook Fine Arts Building on the SCC campus in Cottleville. Tickets are $10 for the general public and $5 for SCC students with a valid ID. Purchase tickets online at stchastickets.com or through the SCC box office at 636-922-8050.
Feb. 13: Pancake day
For over 65 years the St. Charles Kiwanis Club has held their Pancake Day on Fat Tuesday. This year it will be from 6 a.m. until 7 p.m. at Blanchette Memorial Hall. Tickets are $7 in advance and $8 at the door for adults and $5 for children. There will be all-youcan-eat pancakes and sausage. You can buy tickets in advance by calling John Pallardy at 636-946-7088 or from any Kiwanis Club member. All the proceeds go to supporting the St. Charles area youth. These include sponsoring the Duchesne High School Key Club, St. Charles West and St. Charles High Key Clubs along with the Sts. Joachim & Ann, St. Cletus, and Hardin Builders Clubs, plus Lindenwood University’s Kiwanis Circle K Club.
Feb. 13 Happy hour fundraiser
Happy Healthy Hearts Happy Hour takes place from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Trigg Banquet Center at 300 O’Fallon Plaza. Fundraiser to benefit savethemommies.org and to help donate Juice Plus Tower Garden Wabash Elementary School. Free to attend, atwill donations accepted. Drinks and food available for purchase cash only. Hosted by Bridgette Childress Juice Plus 636-698-3780.Up to 60 vendors. Contact Kathryn Hubbard kkfundraisingandevents@gmail.com to be a vendor. For more information visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/happyhour-event-for-happy-healthy-heartstickets-41627590243.
Feb. 16: Fish fry
A fish fry takes place at St. Paul’s UCC in Defiance from 5 - 7:30 p.m. There will be fish, chips, mac and cheese, cole slaw, cinnamon puffs, bread and desserts.
Feb. 17: Taste of Vegas Casino Night
The O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce & Industries Annual Taste of Vegas Casino Night takes place from 6 – 11 p.m. at Christy Banquet Center at 9000 Veterans Memorial Parkway in O’Fallon. There will be live entertainment by Griffin & the Gargoyles, gaming table, dancing with the stars, plus tastings from O’Fallon’s best restaurants. Want more action? An exclusive Texas hold ‘em tournament will give more hard-core players the chance to play for big prizes while having bar service come to you. For more information visit http://www.ofallonchamber.org/.
Feb. 17: Bowling fundraiser
The Tri County Advisory Board invites you to the 19th Annual Crazy Bowl at O’Fallon Bowling Lane at 420 Sonderen St. in O’Fallon. Registration is at 5:30 p.m. and bowling begins at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $20 per bowler and includes three games of bowling, bowling shoe rental and prizes. Cash bar available. 16 lanes have been reserved so R.S.V.P. early. 90 percent of your contribution is tax deductible as allowed by law.
Feb. 18: Smoked sausage supper
Don’t miss out on Zion’s annual allyou-can-eat sausage supper featuring delicious whole-hog smoked pork sausage, sauerkraut, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, applesauce and scrumptious desserts. Dine-in and carry-out meals are served from 11:30 a.m. until 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults and $4 for children six through 12; ages five and under are free. Zion Lutheran Church is located at 3866 S.
Old Highway 94 in St. Charles, just off Hwy 364 at the Woodstone Drive exit. For more information call 636-4417425.
Feb. 18-19: Theater auditions
Wentzville Christian Church will hold auditions for “Footloose” Feb. 18 from 1 to 5 p.m. and Feb. 19 from 6 to 9 p.m. Those auditioning should come prepared to sing 16-32 measures of a Broadway style song. An accompanist will be provided. Please bring your own sheet music in the correct key. Actors will also be asked to learn and perform a short dance. Please check the church website (www.wentzvillecc.org) for additional information. Production dates are May 4 -6. Wentzville Christian Church is located at 1507 Highway Z in Wentzville. If you have any questions, please call Tammy Rodenbaugh at 636-219-3238.
Feb. 21: Concert
Award-winning performers Deborah Sharn and Carolbeth True will take you back in time for an afternoon of music at their “Great Ladies of Song” show at 1 p.m., at St. Peters Cultural Arts Centre’s Performing Arts Theatre. Sharn and True will perform the music of female greats Doris Day, Patsy Cline, Peggy Lee and Ella Fitzgerald, as well as more contemporary artists such as Carole King and Adele. Tickets are just $10 per person. Advance registration is required. Register in person at the St. Peters Rec-Plex, by phone at 636-939-2386, ext. 1400, or online at www.stpetersmo.net/rec-connect. When registering online, print your registration form and bring it with you for admission to the show. The Performing Arts Theatre is located within the Cultural Arts Centre in the west wing of St. Peters City Hall, One St. Peters Centre Blvd.
Feb. 23: Trivia night
ShowMe Aquatics 6th annual trivia night takes place at Immanuel Lutheran Fellowship Hall at 115 South 6th Street in St. Charles. Doors open at 6 p.m., games begin at 7 p.m. Cost is $200 per team of eight ($25 per person in advance, $30 at the door). VIP Tables available for $250 per table (table of eight), which includes two large pizza’s and a dedicated table runner. Benefits ShowMe Aquatics and Fitness and Individuals with Disabilities. Make reservations early, space is limited. Call 636-896-0999 ext. 21 for Kimbra Heimerl.
Feb. 23: Art show
St. Charles Community College will display the artwork of eight regional painters Jan. 29-Feb. 23 in Abstract Rhythms: Painting Invitational. Sarah Giannobile, Jeff Hursey, William La Chance, Julie Malone, John Marksbury, Ethan Meyer, Jeremy Rabus and Nick Schleicher will be featured in the gallery of the Donald D. Shook Fine Arts Building. The exhibition is free and open to the public. Gallery hours are 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday. The gallery is located in the Donald D. Shook Fine Arts Building. Parking for patrons is free in the campus Blue and Yellow lots. For more information, contact Brian D. Smith at bsmith@stchas.edu or 636-922-8575.
Feb. 24: Gardening seminar
St. Charles County Master Gardeners will host Dig-In 2018 from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at St. Charles Community College at 4601 Mid Rivers Mall Dr. in Cottleville. The day begins with a keynote speaker on the importance of soil. Three sessions will follow with a choice of five topics in each session. Registrants will choose one topic for each session Light breakfast and a box lunch is included with registration. The cost is $35 until Feb. 16. After Feb. 16 and at-the-door registration will cost $45 – there may be limited choice of topics. Register early to guarantee your topic selection. Visit http://extension. missouri.edu/stcharles/digin.aspx for
topic descriptions and more details. Call 636-970-3000 to register. All major credit cards are accepted. Master Gardeners receive numerous hours of training from University of Missouri Extension. They volunteer their time to promote and to demonstrate good gardening principles and techniques, as well as participate in projects that enhance the beauty of our community.
Feb. 24: Trivia night
Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians St. Patrick’s Division annual trivia night takes place at St. Robert Bellermine church hall at 1424 First Capital Drive in St. Charles. Please call 636544-7418 or pat1288@aol.com for reservations or questions. Cost is $200 for a table of eight. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., trivia starts at 7 p.m.
Feb. 24: Trivia night
Trivia night takes place at St. Paul’s UCC in Defiance. Doors open 6:30 p.m. Trivia starts at 7 p.m. Cost for eight per table is $100.
Feb. 24: Trivia night
Mid Rivers Christian Church is hosting a trivia night at 828 Mid Rivers Mall Dr. in St. Peters. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and trivia will begin promptly at 7 p.m. Cost is $160 for a table of eight, or $20 per person for a partial table. Light refreshments are provided (outside nonalcoholic beverages and snacks are allowed). Donations and money raised will provide funds for Shiloh Christian Children’s Ranch, which provides a safe and nurturing home for at risk children. Register early. Space is limited.
Feb. 28-March 4: Theater production
St. Charles Community College’s Center Stage Theatre will present “You Can’t Take it With You” in the Donald D. Shook Fine Arts Building theater on the SCC campus. The show will be performed at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 28-March 3; 10 a.m. March 1 and 2 p.m. March 4. Tickets are free to SCC students with ID, or $8 general admission and $6 seniors, veterans and students. The campus is located at 4601 Mid Rivers Mall Drive in Cottleville. For more information, contact Jean Deimund at jdeimund@stchas.edu or 636-9228050. To purchase tickets, visit stchastickets.com.
March 9: Trivia night
The St. Charles Community College Employee Sponsored Program will host its annual trivia night to raise funds for SCC scholarships, campus enhancements and employee support initiatives. Doors open at 6 p.m., and trivia starts at 7 p.m. The fandom-themed event will be held in the Daniel J. Conoyer Social Sciences Building auditorium on the St. Charles Community College campus in Cottleville. Tributes, Potterheads, SuperWhoLocks and others are invited to compete for this year’s title and $200 prize. Tickets cost $25 per person or $200 per table of eight. Beer, wine, soda and water are included and teams are welcome to bring snacks. There will be a prize for best-decorated table, and costumes are encouraged. Last year’s event raised nearly $6,000 for the Employee Sponsored Program. For more information and to register, visit stchas.edu/trivia.
March 17: Quilt social
The quilters from Immaculate Conception Parish of Dardenne Prairie will be holding a quilt social in ICD parish hall (lower level of the church). Doors open at 10 a.m. with bingo beginning at noon. Come hungry as lunch with homemade desserts will be available for purchase. All over the age of 16 are welcome.
March 20: Speaker series
St. Charles City-County Library District speaker series features St. Charles County elected officials and county
staff, who address topics of interest to residents. “Let’s Talk Transportation” will feature Amanda Brauer, Manager of Roads and Traffic, and Craig Tajkowski, County Engineer at Kathryn Linnemann Branch Library at 2323 Elm St. in St. Charles. All programs are free. Registration is requested. For more information call 636-949-7900, ext. 3724, email mtdempsey@sccmo.org or visit sccmo. org/SpeakerSeries.
April 7: Bike blessing
The Third Annual Bike Blessing takes place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at St Paul UCC at 903 Meier Road in Old Monroe. Food and refreshments available. This is an alcohol and drug free event. For more information call 636-6655329.
April 28: Plant sale
The Seventh Annual Lincoln County Master Gardeners plant sale will be held at the extension office at 880 W. College St. in Troy from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m., rain or shine. There will be a variety of plants for sale including perennials, annuals, natives, vegetables and herbs. There will also be unique garden art available to purchase that will make great Mother’s Day gifts. There will be an “Ask the Gardener” booth and raffle tickets ($1each or 6/$5) for a gardeners gift basket. Drawing will be held at 1 p.m. and you do not need to be present to win. Come early for best selection. Come late for best discounts.
May 15: Speaker series
St. Charles City-County Library District speaker series features St. Charles County elected officials and county staff, who address topics of interest to residents. “St. Charles County: Past, Present and Future” will feature County Executive Steve Ehlmann at Kisker Road Branch Library 1000 Kisker Rd. in St. Charles. All programs are free. Registration is requested. For more information call 636-949-7900, ext. 3724, email mtdempsey@sccmo.org or visit sccmo.org/SpeakerSeries.
ONGOING EVENTS Mondays: Take off Pounds Sensibly
Take off pounds Sensibly (TOPS) meets every Monday from 9:30 - 10:30 a.m. Weigh-ins begin at 8:30 a.m. We meet at Memorial Hall in Blanchette Park at 1900 Randolph Street in St. Charles. For more information contact Joyce at 636-206-5306.
Mondays: Take Off Pounds Sensibly
TOPS meet every Monday at Holy Cross Lutheran Church at 8945 Veterans Memorial Highway in O’Fallon. Meetings at 9:30 a.m. with weigh in beginning at 8:30 a.m. For more information please all Linda Wilcox at 636-447-9056.
Mondays: Parent support group
Because I love you, B.I.L.Y., Gateway parent support group meets every Monday at 7:30 p.m. at First United Methodist Church at 801 First Capitol Drive in St. Charles. For information and directions, please contact the helpline at314 993 7550 or email gateway_parent_help@yahoo.com. B.I.L.Y is a program of self-help for parents of troubled children (all ages). We are not professionals, but parents helping each other. The meetings are free to attend.
Mondays: mous
Alcoholics
Anony-
If you want to drink, that’s your business. If you want to stop, we can help. Call Alcoholics Anonymous at 636970-0013.
Mondays: Choral Arts Singers practice
Choral Arts Singers resume practice on Mondays, at 7 p.m. at Transfigura-
www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • February 7, 2018 tion Episcopal Church, 1860 Lake St. Louis Blvd. in Lake St. Louis. This session will include performance at St. James Cathedral, Chicago on June 25. New singers are welcome. Auditions are not required. See ww.concertarts. org.
1st Monday: St.Charles County Council of the Blind meetings
Business meetings are held on the first Monday of each month (second Monday in September due to Labor Day ) unless otherwise specified. No meetings are held in June, July, or December. Meetings are held in the Community Council Building (2nd floor of the Spencer Branch Library) from 6:30 - 9 p.m. For more information contact Beverly Kaskadden (President) at 636561-6947.
Mondays: St. Peters Rotary Club
Noon at St. Peters City Hall, One St. Peters Centre Blvd. www.stpetersrotary.org.
pella chorus that meets at First United Methodist Church at 801 first Capitol Dr. in St. Charles every Tuesday evening beginning at 7 p.m. Call 636-2566823 for more details.
Tuesdays: Optimist Club meeting
The St. Charles Optimist Club meets each Tuesday at noon at Pio’s Restaurant. For more information contact Jack Ross at 314 287-0569 or jackross@att.net.
Tuesdays: Cribbage
Looking for an evening out? Come and play cribbage Tuesdays at 6 p.m. at the IHOP at 3851 Veterans Memorial Dr. in St. Peters. Win prizes and awards with semiannual tournaments. ACC sanctioned. For more information contact Dee at 636-233-8032.
Every Tuesday: Kiwanis Club of St. Charles
The Seasoned Eye Carvers meet every Monday from 9am to noon at the St. Charles Senior Citizens Center, 1455 Fairgrounds (near the Bass Pro Shop). Visitors are always welcome! For more information check the club web site: www.stcharlesareawoodcarvers.com/ or contact Charles Sapp.
Noon – 1pm at Tubby’s Bar & Grill at 506 Droste Rd. in St. Charles. Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time. The group is looking for new members who want to better our community and help its youth. If you are interested in making a positive impact in St. Charles for generations to come, please come for lunch. For more information call 636-448-4277. You can also visit http:// stcharleskiwanis.com.
Mondays, Wednesday and Friday: Fitness First Exercise Classes
Every Tuesday: St. Charles Optimist Club
Mondays: Seasoned Eye Carvers Meeting
9:30-10:30am, American Legion Hall, 504 Luetkenhaus Blvd., Wentzville. 314-369-6521.
Mondays: Chronic pain support group
American Chronic Pain Association is a support group for and by people experiencing chronic pain. Group meets 2nd and 4th Mondays of every month at 3 – 5 p.m. at the Spencer Road Library in St Peters. Important: This is an anonymous group (first names only).
2nd Monday: Winghaven Civil War Round Table 6:30pm, Midwest BankCentre board room, 2299 Technology Dr. O’Fallon. For more informaiton call Mike at 314.276.5018.
3rd Monday of Each Month: Life After Loss support group
Support group for families who have lost a loved one to heroin/opiate addiction. 7 - 8:30 p.m. at Barnes Jewish St. Peters Hospital Campus in Room 212 of Professional Building 1. Contact: geevigna@charter.net. No registration required
4th Monday: American Legion Post 388 Meets
6:30 pm at American Legion Hall, 607 Westridge Dr., O’Fallon, MO 63366 636.219.0553.
Mondays and Wednesdays: Tai Chi for arthritis class
Every Monday and Wednesday a Tai Chi for arthritis class, sponsored by the city of St. Charles Parks and Recreation, takes place from 9:15 - 10 a.m. at Webster Park across from the Family Arena. This is a class that is taught nationally to manage arthritis and to prevent falls. For more information call 636-949-3372.
Every Tuesday: Cribbage Club
1 – 4 p.m. at The Falls Golf Course Clubhouse. Relaxed, friendly play and is open to all. Call 636-561-2970 for more information.
Tuesdays: Lions Club meeting
St. Peters Lions Club meets the first and third Tuesday of every month at 7 p.m. in Old Town St. Peters on Park Street.
Tuesdays: Gateway Chorus Rehearsal
Spotlight
Gateway Spotlight is a women’s a ca-
Noon-1pm at Pio’s Restaurant.
Every Tuesday: Quilting Guild at the O’Fallon Family YMCA
1-4pm Free. Quilt for local charities. No sewing experience required.
Every Tuesday: Meeting
Toastmasters
7pm at the Renaud Spirit Center, 2650 Tri Sports Circle, O’Fallon. Info: 636.379.2505.
Every Tuesday: Gateway Spotlight ChorUS 7:15-9:45pm at First United Methodist Church, 801 First Capitol Drive in St. Charles. Info: www.gatewayspotlight. org or 636.256.6823.
Tuesdays: St. Louis Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association Male Caregiver Experience
The group meets on fourth Tuesday of every month from 10-11:30 a.m. at the Spencer Road Library at the Community Commons, 427 Spencer Rd. For more information about Alzheimer’s disease, support, or the Male Caregiver Experience, please call the Alzheimer’s Association’s 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900 or visit www.alz.org/stl.
Tuesdays: Social club for widows and widowers
On the first and third Tuesday of each month a social club for widows and widowers meets at 7 p.m. at St. John’s United Church of Christ at Fifth and Jackson Streets in St. Charles. On the first Tuesday there are refreshments and on the third Tuesday there is either a speaker or entertainment. The group also goes to breakfast, lunch and dinner monthly, and has a pot luck dinner each month.
Prairie. Open to high school and adult men.
1st Tuesday: Fleur de Lis Garden Society
6:30pm at various locations. Info: www. fleurdelisgardensociety.org; Jeanne at 314.605.8563.
1st & 3rd Tuesday Book Study Group
Book study group will meet from 7 to 8:30 pm at Denny’s 1300 Lake Saint Louis Blvd near I-70. They would like as much diversity in the group as possible, so men and women of all religions or no religion are welcome. Questions or to order the book Email: MartyJan@ Gmail.com or Call or Text: 314-7040616
2nd Tuesday: Central Missouri Railroad Association meeting
This unique organization is for railroad modelers, railfans, photographers and railroad retirees with layouts in O, HO, N hoping to add G scales. Meetings are on Tuesdays from 7 to 9 p.m.; locations posted on our website www.angelfire. com and on our Facebook page. For more info call 636-279-5522 or 636456-0776.
2nd Tuesday: Cancer support group
Cancer Companions Support Group is a support group for any cancer patient in treatment or post treatment, their caregiver and their loved ones that meets on the second Tuesday of each month at Dardenne Presbyterian Church at 7400 South Outer 364 in Dardenne Prairie at 7 p.m. in the parlor. Registration is not required.
2nd Tuesday: Show-me Stitchers Embroiderer’s Guild of America
Wednesdays: Women’s fishing club
Gateway Bass ‘n Gals all women’s bass club has monthly meetings the first Wednesday of every month at Rookies Bar and Grill at 3721 New Town Rd. in St. Charles at 7 p.m. Women of any fishing level please come and check out our women-only fishing club.
Wednesdays: TOPS meeting
TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) Club 661 Wentzville holds meetings every Wednesday at 9:15 p.m. at Elder Court community meeting room. For more information call 314-650-1014.
Every Wednesday: Crossroads Cribbage Club 10am Meets at 1380 Boone St., Troy, MO 63379. 636.528.8379.
Wednesdays: Kiwanis Club meeting
Cottleville/Weldon Spring Kiwanis Club meets the first Wednesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at Bemos and the third Tuesday of the month at 7 a.m. at Breeze Park. This is a new club looking for new members interested in working to better our community. For more information call Christy at 314583-0538.
Every Wednesday: Men’s Golf League
5pm, tee off at 5:30 pm at Heritage of Hawk Ridge. www.lakesaintlouis.com, under the parks and recreation section.
Every Wednesday: Charity Bingo
6:45pm VFW Post 5077 sponsors, at VFW Hall, 8500 Veterans Mem. Pkwy., O’Fallon. 636.272.1945 or www.vfwpost5077.org.
4th Tuesday: O’Fallon Garden Club
1st Wednesday: Hope & Healing
6:30pm at Sunrise Methodist Church, 7116 Twin Chimney Blvd. Info: Barb at 636.978.5930.
Last Tuesday of every month, St. Charles American Legion Post 312 spaghetti dinner. 5pm, St. Charles American Legion Post 312, 2500 Raymond Drive in St. Charles. $6 per person. For more information call Post 312 at 636.947.7666.
Every Tuesday & Thursday: Tai Chi at the St. Charles County Family YMCA 8-9am & 10:15-11:15am. No experience necessary. 636-928-1928.
Tuesdays & Thursdays: Get Fit Exercise Classes
9-10am and 5:30-6:30pm at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church Hall, New Melle. 314.369.6521.
Wednesdays: Food pantry
Food pantry open Wednesdays to the public from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Cornerstone UMC at 1151 Tom Ginnever Ave. in O’Fallon. Bread, canned goods other necessities.
Wednesdays: Talk
Veterans
Coffee
Veterans from all branches of service are invited to the Wentzville Green Lantern Senior Center at 506 S. Linn Ave. in Wentzville on the second Tuesday of each month from 9 – 10:30 a.m. for coffee, pastries and camaraderie. Come meet with fellow veterans who served our country and share your experience.
Every Tuesday: Dardenne Presbyterian Church Basketball
Wednesdays: Marine League meeting
8-9:30pm, in the Christian Life Center, 7400 South Outer 364 in Dardenne
313 old town St. Peters at 7:30 p.m. All Marines and FMF Corpsmen are welcome. For more information visit www. stcharlesmarine.org.
7pm at the Ladue Chapel. Info: www. showmestitchers.com.
Veterans from all branches of the service are invited to attend “Coffee Talk” every Wednesday at. 9 a.m. at Grace Baptist Church, 3601 Ehlmann Rd. in St. Charles (Take I-70 to the Cave Springs exit). We will have applications for VA health care, applications for the honor flight, reports from local American Legion and VFW halls and lots of good comradery. Come join us for free coffee and donuts and enjoy an hour with your fellow veterans.
Tuesdays: Monthly veterans coffee
What’s Happening
Corp
On the first Wednesday of each month the St. Charles County Marine Corps League meets at the American Legion
5-6pm, Dardenne Presbyterian Rock Church, 7400 South Outer 364 in Dardenne Prairie. Unique service of music, worship, and prayer for those in need of hope and healing.
1st and 3rd Wednesday Each: St. Charles Area Wood Carvers
7pm – 9pm. Meetings are held at the Hollenbeck Middle School at 4555 Central School Road, St. Charles, Missouri. Visitors are always welcome! For more information check the club web site: www.stcharlesareawoodcarvers. com/ or contact Charles Sapp.
2nd Wednesday: Free Financial Education- Money Matters
6:30pm at the O’Fallon Family YMCA. PNC Bank and The O’Fallon Family YMCA have partnered to provide monthly free financial education courses for members of the community. Info (including a list of topics): call PNC Bank at 636.272.2449.
Wednesdays: Take Off Pounds Sensibly
Take Off Pounds Sensibly meets every Wednesday at 10 a.m. in the parish hall of Chapel of the Cross Lutheran Church at 907 Jungermann Rd. in St. Peters. TOPS is a national non-profit weight-loss organization that supports its members in attaining their goal weight. There is no cost for the first SUDOKU answers from page 7
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meeting. All are welcome. Weigh-ins begin at 9 a.m. Contact Judy Bauer at 636-541-2263 for further information.
Thursdays: Lions Club meeting
Wentzville Outreach Lions Club meets the second Thursday of the month at Schnucks at 1960 Wentzville PWK in Wentzville at 6 p.m. Contact Jimmy Butler at 314-780-5629 or Lisa Alexander at 314-258-1069 for more information.
Thursdays: Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS)
Take Off Pounds Sensibly meets every Thursday at 6 p.m. in the United Methodist Church at 725 N. Wall St. in Wentzville. TOPS is a national non-profit weight-loss organization that supports its members in attaining their goal weight. There is no cost for the first meeting. All are welcome. For more information call Mary Stassi at 636357-1387.
Thursdays: Optimist Club meetings
The O’Fallon Optimist Club meets on the second and fourth Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at Bank of Old Monroe T.R. Hughes Blvd. in O’Fallon.
Thursdays: Lions Club meetings
St. Charles Lions Club meets every second and fourth Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. at 1144 S Benton Street in St. Charles. Contact Art for more info at 636-441-1831. New members are welcome.
3rd Thursdays: Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 458 Meeting
7pm, Amvets Post 106, 360 Brown Rd in St. Peters. Those who served in any branch between 1962 and 1975 are welcome.
Every Thursday: Dardenne Presbyterian Church Quilters
9am-2pm, Dardenne Presbyterian Church, 7400 South Outer 364 in Dardenne Prairie. Members do hand quilting to quilts of any size for donation that is given to various church supported charities. No experience is necessary to join the group. For more information, contact Vickie Young at 636.928.7348, or Brenda Kenny at 636.240.3753.
Every Thursday: Kiwanis Club of St. Peters
6:30am at IHOP (3851 Veteran’s Memorial Pkwy St. Peters). 636.328.4941.
Every Thursday: Kiwanis Club of O’Fallon
11:45am Meets at JJ’s Restaurant in O’Fallon. Info: www.ofkiwanis.com.
Every Thursday: Rotary Club meeting
7:30am, The Rendezvous Café at 217 South Main St. in O’Fallon. We welcome existing and potential members to visit and have breakfast with us. www.ofallonmo.rotary-clubs.org
Every Thursday: Yoga at The St. Charles County Family YMCA 7-7:55pm Any level. Info: 636.928.1928.
Every Thursday: Active Older Adults Game Day at the O’Fallon Family YMCA 10am Free. Bring a favorite snack to share. Anybody welcome.
CROSSWORD answers from page 10
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February 7, 2018 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
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P.S. Thank you St. Jude, J.L.
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.
P.S. Thank you St. Jude, J.M.R.
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February 7, 2018 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
‘Black Panther’ leads a bumper crop of 2018 Marvel movies
M O V I E
The Marvel Cinematic Universe roars back into theaters this year with “Black Panther,” a film that received praise and critical acclaim after its big Hollywood premiere. Chadwick Boseman stars as T’Challa, a prince from Wakanda, an African nation known for its technology and the rare metal called Vibranium. After the death of his father, T’Challa will become the new king while still performing his duties as the heroic Black Panther. Two Marvel Comics legends, Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, created the character in “Fantastic Four” #52 back in 1966. Over the last 50 years, he has been a member of the Avengers, fought alongside many Marvel heroes and even married Ororo Munroe, the mutant hero known as Storm. The character currently has his own ongoing Marvel Comic book series and “Black Panther” marks his first solo cinematic adventure. Boseman definitely was the logical choice to play the role, especially after portraying real-life heroes such as Jackie Robinson in “42” and Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall in 2017’s “Marshall.” The actor first appeared as Black Panther in “Captain America: Civil War” and his new film takes viewers to the character’s technologically-rich homeland. Black Panther will join dozens of Marvel characters in the upcoming “Avengers: Infinity War,” which could become the ultimate superhero adventure. Intergalactic bad guy Thanos (Josh Brolin) wants to collect all the so-called “Infinity Gems” in order to obtain incredible cosmic power. It will take the efforts of Iron Man, Captain America, the Guardians of the Galaxy and others to stop him. The after-credits scenes here could take three times as long to show up. Paul Rudd’s Ant-Man is part of “Infinity War” as well a new adventure featuring Evangeline Lilly as his partner, the Wasp. The original “AntMan” was a fun romp with a lesser-known Marvel character, one that has been around for over 50 years. Director Peyton Reed has the right touch
By Steve Bryan
for this hero and wisely reassembled the original cast for “Ant-Man and the Wasp.” One notable Marvel anti-hero may not be fighting Thanos this year, however. In “Deadpool 2,” Ryan Reynolds returns as Wade Wilson, the mercenary with a scarred face and incredible healing powers. The original film exceeded all expectations with its sharp writing and Reynold’s hilarious performance as Deadpool. The Walt Disney/Fox deal means that Deadpool could join the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but perhaps not for “Infinity War.” In “Deadpool 2,” Josh Brolin does double-duty for Marvel as Nathan Summers, an important part of the X-Men universe. It’s good to see Brianna Hildebrand returning as Negasonic Teenage Warhead, an X-Man who can release explosive bursts from her body. Morena Baccarin returns as Vanessa, Wade Wilson’s love interest, and Leslie Uggams is on hand as Blind Al, Deadpool’s roommate. Based on this lineup, the Marvel Cinematic Universe is set to dominate the box office in 2018. “Black Panther” opens on Friday, February 16, 2018. “Avengers: Infinity War” opens on Friday, May 4, 2018. “Deadpool 2,” opens on Friday, May 18, 2018. “Ant-Man and the Wasp” opens on Friday, July 6, 2018. Photo courtesy Marvel Studios 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.
www.lindenwood.edu/itstime