CNSTC: March 15, 2017

March 15, 2017

Sharing the harvest

Hunters across Missouri donate deer meat to the Share the Harvest program to help feed the hungry

Around Town FHN student moves to finals in Teen Talent competition. P.3 Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri and Schnucks partner up. P.3 St. Charles mayor to be honored with Women in American History Award. P.6

Healthy Living

By Brett Auten It was a bountiful harvest in more ways than one. Once again, the Missouri Department of Conservation and the Conservation Federation of Missouri joined forces with the state’s deer hunters for the state’s Share the Harvest program that donates deer meat to help feed hungry Missourians all around the state. In all 4,280 hunters donated 198,277 pounds of venison to Share the Harvest program this past deer season. The process was simple. Deer hunters donated their extra venison to more than 100 participating meat processors throughout the state who would grind the deer meat into one-pound packages. The packaged venison was Submitted photo given to food banks and food An employee at Josephville Meat Processing in Wentzville wraps freshly-ground venison for the Share the Harvest Program. Josephville is one of pantries for distribution to the program’s participating processors. Missourians in need of food assistance. Mike Ohlms of Old Monroe volunteers, it was unbelievable,” deer hunting seasons, hunters don’t have a freezer big enough has participated in the program Ohlms said. “One time, due to are limited to two antlered deer or a place to put the second one. for upwards of 16 years. a rush at the processor, I made during the seasons combined. This is an opportunity to put the “As far as hunters giving back a delivery early in the morning An archer’s hunting permit al- meat to good use.” to the community, there is no and there were people waiting lows for two deer of either sex. Donations to food pantries better way to do it,” Ohlms said. in line. They all jumped in and Only one antlered deer may be are oftentimes boxed items so “For hunters to go out there helped unload and it was con- taken before Nov. 12. Only one protein is a lot harder to come and do what they enjoy doing stant ‘thank yous.’” antlered deer may be taken dur- by. Venison has been champiso much then turn around and Ohlms said, over the years, ing the entire firearms season oned for its lean, low-fat source make a donation and knowing some of the recipients have had Dan Zarlenga is the Media of protein. that he or she is feeding quite a to be nudged into trying the Specialist with the Missouri “It is also very versatile,” Zarfew families is absolutely fantas- venison. Department of Conservation. lenga said. “It can be used in a tic.” “A lot of the pantries have Zarlenga said the program was lot of different ways whether it’s Ohlms has had the unique recipes there for them to try,” started to ensure that harvested in a chili, spaghetti sauce or a perspective of not only donat- he said. “As far as a high qual- meat was put to good use. casserole. People are receptive ing but also delivering the pro- ity red meat, (the food pantries) “Hunting is the main tool to to it and the ones who are really cessed venison to the food pan- just don’t get that type of thing. manage the deer herd,” Zar- like it.” tries. Once they try it, they usually lenga said. “A number of hunt“The first time I saw the look want to come back for more.” ers already got their deer and See SHARE page 2 on the faces of the food pantry In both archery and firearm don’t really need a second or

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Screen time safety for children. P.4

Business

The Monsanto Fund presents grant to Operation Food Search. P.9 Willows Way expanding facility P.9

Movie

‘Beauty and the Beast’ P.16

Weather FRIDAY Rain Likely 58/37 SATURDAY Chance of Rain Late/Sunny 60/39 SUNDAY Sunny/Chance of Rain 64/44 FirstWarn Weather

prepared by meteorologist Nick Palisch. For the latest updates visit www.facebook.com/nickswx.

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Around Town

March 15, 2017 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

SHARE Continued from cover Jim is a client of the Saints Joachim & Ann Care Service Food Pantry in St. Peters (his last name is not included for privacy reasons). He used the venison he received to make stew and chili. Saints Joachim & Ann Care Service Food Pantry has been distributing food each week to low-income families and others in need since 1981. “In the winter time, we always went hunting and got our own deer. So it was just something I was raised on,” he said. “I think this is a very good resource for people who need food, and for the hunters

to help out that’s a good deal. It means a lot to everyone.” The program began in 1992 and since has provided about 3.7 million pounds venison. “Hunters started Share the Harvest because they saw a need in their communities,” Sara Pauley, Missouri Department of Conservation Director, said. “Hunters remain the driving force behind this popular program that helps feed our fellow Missourians who are in need. We sincerely thank the thousands of deer hunters who support Share the Harvest, along with the many participating meat processors and

sponsors.” Processing fees are covered entirely or in part by numerous local sponsors, along with statewide sponsors that include: MDC, CFM, Shelter Insurance, Bass Pro Shops, Missouri Chapter Safari Club International, Missouri Chapter National Wild Turkey Federation, Midway USA Inc., Missouri Food Banks Association, United Bowhunters of Missouri, Missouri Trappers Association, the Missouri Hunter Education Instructors Association and the Walmart Foundation.

Submitted photos A client of the Saints Joachim & Ann Care Service Food Pantry in St. Peters holds up venison donated through MDC’s Share the Harvest Program. She plans on using it to make deer meat chili for her family.

Weather from Nick’s Window

by Nick Palisch

Understanding the difference between ‘watch’ and ‘warning’

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Published weekly since 1921. Serving St. Louis, St. Charles and Lincoln Counties. Publisher Robert J. Huneke Editor Mathew DeKinder Production Manager Rebecca Brockmann Production Assistants Lisa Moran, Melissa Nordmann Staff Writers Brett Auten, Nicholas Elmes Columnists Gary Baute, Steve Bryan, Cindy Moore, Nick Palisch Cartoonist John Hanna

Severe weather season is upon us and now is the time to begin preparing. Missouri weather can deliver all the extremes from heat to cold, from snow to storms. We have it all. In an effort to better prepare yourself for threatening weather conditions, it is important to understand the difference between a “watch” and a “warning.” During severe weather the National Weather Service along with the Storm Prediction Center will issue watches when conditions favoring severe weather is possible across an area. A watch means that conditions are right to support the development of severe weather in and around the watch box. When a watch is issued this is the time to become prepared for the possibility of severe weather. A severe thunderstorm watch means that conditions are favorable for the development of severe weather including the threat of damaging winds, large hail, and/or tornadoes. A tornado watch means that conditions are right to potentially produce tornadoes in and around the watch box. A watch is not a guarantee that severe weather will occur, but it is possible. During a watch it is important to monitor weather conditions, review your severe weather safety plans, make sure your NOAA weather radio is operational and if you are planning outdoor activities

to know where to go and what to do if/ when severe weather were to develop. The Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Oklahoma is responsible for issuing severe thunderstorm and tornado watches. A typical watch box includes about 20,000 to 40,000 square miles. Sometimes the watch boxes are smaller and sometimes they are bit larger. A watch is typically issued for about six to eight hours and will be modified as necessary during the watch time frame. One thing to always remember about a watch – it means to prepare for severe weather, but as I mentioned, it isn’t a guarantee that severe weather will in fact occur within the watch box. A severe thunderstorm warning or tornado warning means that threatening weather has been reported, detected by radar and severe weather safety plans should be activated. A warning means that severe weather is occurring or will occur in the warned area. This is the time to take action! When the local National Weather Service issues the warning for severe weather it is indicated that winds of 58+ mph, hail of at least one inch (about the size of a quarter) or the threat of a possible tornado is anticipated from the severe storm. At least one of these criteria must be met before a warning is issued.

Staff Photographer Ray Rockwell Social Media Lori North Classified Advertising Brooke Tolle Display Advertising Diane Cooper, Randy Davies, Heather Deatz, Susan Faust, Doug Garbs, Bob Huneke, David McFarland, Norm Merchant, Christy Parks, Christy Weber Circulation: Distributech, Dominion Distribution, Papers Unlimited Community News is a Registered Trademark of Huneke Publications, Inc. Neither the advertiser nor the publisher is responsible or liable for misinformation, misprints, typographical errors, etc., herein contained. Huneke Publications, Inc. reserves the right to accept or reject all news and advertising copy which in the sole judgement and discretion of the publisher/editor is not suitable or deemed appropriate for publication. Copyright 2016 Huneke Publica tions, Inc. with all rights reserved. No part of the publications may be reproduced in any form without permission in writing from the publisher/editor. Publication of advertising contained herein does not necessarily constitute endorsement. Signed columns are the opinion of the writers and not necessarily the opinion of the publisher. Entire Contents Copyrighted

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A tornado warning means that a tornado has been sighted or detected by radar. When a tornado warning is issued the area under the warning is in danger of a possible tornado at any time during the warning. Warnings are issued by the NWS and relayed via media and NOAA weather radar. The warnings typically include smaller areas within or near the watch. Warnings are sometimes issued ahead of the storm for adjacent counties to provide the public with advanced warning of the impending severe weather threat. Severe weather can occur at any time in Missouri. It is important to make sure you have a safety plan in place and know the difference between a watch and warning as this can help prepare you and even save your life. Nick Palisch is a meteorologist and Missouri native who understands the weather here in our area. He currently resides in Lake Saint Louis and can be reached at nick-wx@ sbcglobal.net and you can always get the most upto-date forecast from the FirstWarn Weather page at www.facebook.com/ nickswx The opinions expressed in this column are the columnist’s alone and do not reflect the opinion of the owners or staff of Community News.

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • March 15, 2017

Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri and Schnucks announce community service partnership benefiting military service personnel Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri and Schnucks are teaming up to bring a sweet treat to military service members. For every $4 donation a Schnucks customer makes to Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri through a Scan & Give campaign at checkout, a box of Girl Scout Cookies will be gifted to the USO of Missouri. The promotion is running in all 100 Schnucks locations and seven additional Girl Scout councils are participating. The three-week promotion ends on April 2. “Schnucks continues to be very supportive of Girl Scouting and our mission of building future leaders,” said Bonnie Barczykowski, CEO of Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri. “This promotion enables our community to support Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri and potentially offers more community members the opportunity to provide a favorite national treat to our brave military service personnel.” “We are proud of our longstanding partnership with the Girls Scouts throughout our trade areas,” said Joanie Taylor, Schnucks director of community relations. “As a company, we are

dedicated to exploring new and different ways to partner with community groups, and this Scan & Give with the Girls Scouts and the USO is an excellent example of this commitment.” Girl Scout councils of Central Illinois, Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois, Eastern Missouri, Missouri Heartland, Southern Illinois, Southwest Indiana, Northern Illinois, and Wisconsin Badgerland are participating in the promotion, which will provide Girl Scout Cookies to their regional USO. To make a donation at the checkout, customers select a slip from the register tear pad and give it to the cashier to scan. The donation amount will be added to the customer’s bill. Store patrons have the option to donate in three different amounts up to $20. “We are thrilled to be the beneficiary of this great partnership between Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri and Schnucks,” said Christine Trotter, USO of Missouri Director of Development. “Our military truly appreciate these sweet treats and know that Girl Scouts are always thinking about them.”

Around Town

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O’Fallon City Administrator announces resignation O’Fallon City Administrator Bonnie Therrien announced her resignation, effective Feb. 28, in a letter to Mayor Bill Hennessy and the O’Fallon City Council. Therrien has served in that position since July 2013. Assistant City Administrator Lenore ToserAldaz has been named interim city administrator. “I am grateful to Bonnie for her service to O’Fallon, our residents and our businesses,”

said Mayor Hennessy. “Bonnie is a true professional, and she has helped our city move in a very positive direction over these past four years. She was a strong supporter of our city staff, and I appreciate all she’s done for our employees during her time with O’Fallon.” In her resignation letter, Therrien thanked the employees of the city. “Every department gives their all to the residents

in fulfilling the mission of O’Fallon,” she wrote. “I was proud and humbled to work beside each and every employee through the years.” Therrien will continue to serve in an advisory role with the city through August 2018 in order to assist with the transition to a new administrator and support ongoing projects. Recruitment for the position will begin later this spring.

Francis Howell North student moves to finals in Teen Talent Competition On March 4, 40 metro area high school acts competed in the semi-final round of the Seventh Annual St. Louis Teen Talent Competition. St. Louis performing arts professionals judged the acts and narrowed the field to 17 acts (29 individual finalists) who will move on to the finals on April 8 at 8 p.m. at The Fabulous Fox Theatre, including Francis Howell North student Rebekah Apicello. These acts are one step closer to performing on the Fox Stage and winning college scholarships, prizes and performance opportunities. “We couldn’t be happier with the level of talent this year. While we usually only advance 12-13 acts to the finals, this year is an exception and we have 17 qualifying acts!” exclaimed Mary Strauss, Fox Performing Arts Charitable Foundation Board President. The final competition is a Broadway-style show that is free and open to the public. General

admission tickets are required and available now at no charge at The Fabulous Fox box office and through Metrotix. More than $30,000 in scholarships and prizes will be distributed among the top competitors on April 8. Finalists will also have the opportunity to perform at area events throughout the year. 2017 public appearances scheduled to date include Webster Art & Air Fair, National Dance Week and the Muny. The community response to this free event has been amazing and grown over the past six years with “sold out” crowds at The Fox. Additionally, each year 120,000 viewers have watched the Nine Network’s hour-long program on the competition. The Nine Network will once again broadcast an hour-long program on the 2017 competition. Please note all seating is general admission. There is a limit of 10

tickets per transaction. Seating is first-come-first-seated, and is not guaranteed. The theater will be over-sold to ensure a full house. Please arrive early.

www.byerlyrv.com

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Healthy Living

March 15, 2017 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

www.AskTheBJCExpert.org

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Screen time safety for children By Trina Blythe, MD

With the growth of technology, young people have more options than ever to get in front of a screen. Kids and teens have access to many different types of technology, through phones, tablets, computers and television. Screen time safety is a way for parents and caregivers to be knowledgeable about what types of media their children are exposed to and checking in to be sure that media is appropriate for their age and maturity level. The good and bad of technology Technology can increase access to educational material, provide entertainment and relay news from around the world. But technology can also increase access to inappropriate content and language you do not want your child to be exposed to. There are also medical risks associated with excessive screen time. One leading concern is the risk of obesity from being sedentary, sitting in front of a screen too long instead of being active. Artificial light exposure can also increase risks of headaches and poor sleep. Too much technology use has even shown to decrease the ability to focus and self-direct and can also cause social isolation. Setting guidelines with your child To avoid the negative effects of technology, it may be necessary to establish some guidelines with children. These rules should also apply with aftercare or the babysitter. Examples of rules could include limiting technology to one or two hours or only after all homework is complete. When it comes to the internet, parents can establish an ap-

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proved list of websites that are okay for the child to visit to protect them from inappropriate content. Texting has also become a concern for many parents. For example, no texting at the dinner table might be a good rule to start with, since family meal time is very important. Another rule may be if you can talk to the person face-to-face, there’s no reason to be texting. For teenagers, it is especially important to discuss the dangerous risks of texting and driving. By being knowledgeable about screen time safety, parents and caregivers can help keep their children healthy, active and safe. Trina Blythe, MD, is a BJC Medical Group pediatrician at Way to Grow Pediatrics at Progress West Hospital. Dr. Blythe is consistently named by her peers to the “The Best Doctors” list. She is also an assistant professor of pediatrics at Washington University School of Medicine. To learn more, visit www.bjcstcharlescounty.org or schedule an appointment with Dr. Blythe at 636-344-2400.

New solutions for ADHD By Dr. Rhodes DC, BCIM The National Institute of Mental Health estimates that five million children in the United States have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). That’s about five percent of all children. While ADHD is most commonly associated with childhood, studies show that up to 70 percent of children with ADHD continue to have symptoms as adults. Often, children are prescribed stimulant medications as a way to alleviate the symptoms of ADHD as these medications help users to focus their thoughts and ignore distractions. However, there are short- and long-term effects related to these drugs. The most common side effects of ADHD medications are decreased appetite, sleep problems, headaches, jitteriness, stomach aches and social withdrawal. The long-term impact of these medications on a youthful, developing brain is not yet known. With the side effects of medications, many parents are turning to a new therapy in the treatment of ADHD called Neurofeedback. More than 30 years of university-based research has demonstrated that the brains of children and adults suffering with ADHD produce a high amount of theta waves and too few beta waves, resulting in an inability to

concentrate and pay attention. Theta waves are the predominant brain waves produced when we are just about to fall asleep; beta waves are produced when we are awake, alert and externally focused. Normal theta to beta ratios in adults is 2 to 1 and in children it is 2.5 to 1. Ratios higher than 3 to 1 suggest ADHD. In several different studies it was demonstrated that 86 percent of the children diagnosed with ADHD using traditional criteria had a theta/beta ratio higher than 3 to 1. When the brain becomes dysregulated, it sometimes produces a high level of theta waves in waking states. In these cases, it is associated with distractibility, inattention and daydreaming. In some cases, the individual will become hyperactive to compensate for the lack of focus. Neurofeedback is a non-invasive procedure to teach children with ADHD how to control their own brain waves and reduce or eliminate the symptoms associated with ADHD. For more information or to schedule your free parent seminar on either October 13 or 27, contact St. Louis Neurotherapy Institute at 314-983-9355 or visit www. stladhd.com.

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • March 15, 2017

Free your feet from pain RELIEVING HAMMERTOE SYMPTOMS Changing your footwear may help relieve hammertoe symptoms: • Wear the right size shoes or shoes with wide toe boxes for comfort, and to avoid making hammertoe worse. • Avoid high heels as much as possible. • Wear soft insoles to relieve pressure on the toe. • Protect the joint that is sticking out with corn pads or felt pads. • Exercises may be helpful. You can try gentle stretching exercises if the toe is not already in a fixed position. Picking up a towel with your toes can help stretch and straighten the small muscles in the foot.

Hammertoe is a deformity, in which the end of the toe is bent downward. Hammertoe usually affects the second toe; however, it may also affect the other toes. The toe moves into a claw-like position. The most common cause of hammertoe is wearing short, narrow shoes that are too tight. The toe is forced into a bent position. Muscles and tendons in the toe tighten and become shorter. Hammertoe is most likely to occur in women who wear shoes that do not fit well or have high heels, or children who keep wearing shoes they have outgrown. At first, you may be able to move and straighten a hammertoe. Over time, you will no longer be able to move the toe. A corn often forms on the top of the toe. A callus is found on the sole of the foot. Walking or wearing shoes can be painful. Mild hammertoe in children can be treated by manipulating and splinting the affected toe.

If the condition is treated early, you can often avoid surgery. Treatment will reduce pain and walking difficulty. For severe hammertoe, you will need an operation to straighten the joint. Most of the time, you will go home on the same day as the surgery. The toe may still be stiff afterward, and it may be shorter.

If you have hammertoe or other foot pain, call Feet for Life Podiatry: • To get instructions on the best treatment. • If your pain gets worse. • If you have difficulty walking.

For more information contact Feet for Life Podiatry Centers at 314-983-0303 or see our website www.feetforlifecenters.com. We are located in University City/Clayton at 8637 Delmar Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63124.

DNA test may reveal why you can’t lose weight Excess pounds do more than just increase your weight – they increase your risk of many other major health problems. Overweight people are more likely to have heart disease, strokes, diabetes, cancer and depression. And as a person’s BMI increases, so do the number of sick days, medical claims and healthcare costs. And why is it that we’ve all seen people who eat a lot more than we do or eat fattening foods like ice cream, cake and whatever else they want and still don’t gain weight? Researchers have shown that genetics may play a huge role in this frustrating problem. According to Dr. Brian Parks, study coauthor and a postdoctoral researcher at the Geffen School of Medicine, “We could potentially reverse obesity if we understand how genetic factors influenced so much of the population to become obese in the first place.” On one level, your weight depends on the number of calories you consume, how many of those calories you store and how many you burn up. But each of these factors is influenced by a combination of genes and environment. Both can affect your physiology (such as how fast you burn calories) as well as your behavior (the types of foods you choose to eat, for instance). Genes can contribute to obesity is several ways. They can affect your appetite, metabolism, food cravings, bodyfat distribution and how we eat when coping with stress. Research suggests that genes can actually account for just 25 percent of the predisposition to be overweight, while for other genetic influences can be as high as 70 to 80 percent. Having a rough

Photo courtesy Bigstock idea of how large a role genes play in your weight may be helpful in terms of treating your weight problems. Based on the results of your genetic testing, we will work with you to help you successfully achieve the results you want to see! So take the guess work out of your weight issue! Call today and find out more about this doctorsupervised program and let us help you feel great about your weight. This program is based on your personal DNA! There are no shakes, no pre-packaged foods and this is not an exercise dependent program. Come in for a free body composition analysis. Call 1-866-5-NEW-YOU or visit www.fatlossstl. com. Our office is located at 11710 Old Ballas Rd, Suite 205, Creve Coeur, MO 63141.

Healthy Living

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Around Town

March 15, 2017 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

St. Charles mayor to be honored with Women in American History Award The St. Charles Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution will be honoring St. Charles Mayor Sally Faith with the Women in American History Award at their March meeting. The emphasis of Women in American History is on the role of women, past and present, in American history. Chapters

are encouraged to select a notable woman from their state or community to honor. March is officially “Women’s History Month,” so chapters may wish to use this occasion to acknowledge the outstanding contributions of the woman of their choice.

Optimist Club of St. Charles cosponsors annual spelling bee The Optimist Club of St. Charles cosponsored this year’s spelling bee with the St. Charles School District. Event chairpersons were Ellen Parker and Jeff Marion (Optimist members), Kara Canning elementary leader and Stacey Stubits the Jefferson School leader. On Feb. 21 the Jefferson School event winners were recognized by the club at their weekly luncheon. On Feb. 28 the elementary level winners were recognized at the noon luncheon. This is an annual event that encourages the St. Charles School District students to participate and develop this important academic skill.

At the elementary level, each of the district’s elementary schools holds its own school spelling bee. Finalists from each school are then invited to compete against the other local elementary school winners. This year’s elementary winners are: Osvin Alaphat (fourth), Landen Stahlschmidt (third), Anishka Bhatia (second) and Jagger Ferrer (first). At Jefferson School, all students are encouraged to participate and to be a school finalist. This year’s Jefferson School winners are: Conner Vivrett (third), Isabel Lindquist (second) and Galen Krueger (first).

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Diverting THOUSANDS of TONS of waste from local landdlls!

1SDS partners the ReStore with other non-profit organizations so that items get where they need to be to best serve our community. 186 Mid Rivers Center St. Peters, MO 63367 donations@ habitatstcharles.org Wednesday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Instead of what we do take, here is what we don’t take:  Used carpeting and pad  Hazardous chemicals of any kind  Unframed glass/mirrors  Anything damaged or dirty beyond use Because old TV’s don’t sell, we recycle them and pass the $15 fee onto the donor.

(636)978-5712

www.stcharlesrestore.org www.stcharlesrestore.org

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Fort Zumwalt North High School is using grant to build stronger students Fort Zumwalt North High School in the Fort Zumwalt School District is teaming up with local farmers in its efforts to build a healthier student body. The school was one of 31 Missouri schools awarded a Dollars for Dairy grant to encourage students to choose nutrient-rich dairy foods during school meals. The award, funded by local dairy farmers, is provided through St. Louis District Dairy Council, a nonprofit nutrition education organization. The 2016-2017 school year marks the fifth year that Missouri schools have had the

opportunity to enhance the health of students through the program. A total of 135 local schools submitted proposals aimed at boosting dairy consumption in schools. After going through a competitive application review, the winning schools were notified at the start of the school year. Those 31Missouri schools are conducting a variety of projects, such as adding yogurt parfaits to breakfast menus, setting up smoothie stations in cafeterias, and moving breakfast service from the cafeteria to the classroom. Fort Zumwalt North High School

is offering students yogurt and fruit smoothies during breakfast and lunch. The projects are designed to encourage students to make smart choices at breakfast and lunch. “Joining Missouri dairy farmers to support efforts that boost student health and wellness is rewarding,” says Camille Smith, Nutrition Educator for St. Louis District Dairy Council. “Drinking milk and eating dairy foods makes it easy for kids to get the bone-building calcium and other nutrients their growing bodies need.”

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • March 15, 2017

Community Toons

Around Town

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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

THE P

By Cindy Moore

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E M I R C T C E F R E www.mastersgcr.com

I’m getting highly suspicious. Every time I come home my husband’s intently watching the TV. Nothing out of the ordinary, except that football season is over. So, what is it that has his complete attention? Murder shows! Shows about people who have offed their business partners, their neighbors and their SPOUSES! Just to make sure, I have hidden all the blunt instruments in the house and replaced the sharp kitchen knives with plastic ware. One can’t be too cautious. The other day he made me a fruit drink, out of kindness you many think? Ha! I’m on to his little plot. I’ve seen the anti-freeze smoothie episode. The woman croaked after drinking such a concoction and there was no color, taste or odor. “Mmm, this is delicious,” I say while pouring it down the sink. I will no longer drive with my husband either. I know he has cut the brake line and will merge into traffic after he jumps out of the car leaving me to face a head-on collision with a semi. No more trips to the zoo. I saw the show where the guy hands his wife a cheeseburger then pushes her into the lion pit. He will definitely question where the pillows and couch cushions have disappeared to – used in too many suffocations on those programs. I’m no idiot. The other day he came in huffing and sweating. No doubt from guilt. Most likely he’d been out purchasing a silencer or upping my life insurance

policy. I was almost in the car going to hide out at my favorite department store where it’s safe. I forgot the keys and grabbed them when he came in. “Where’ve you been?” I demand. “Forgot it was garbage day. Got the can out just as they came by.” “Hmph!” I say. No doubt a dry run for when he dumps my remains. I make a mental note to get rid of the garbage can. I head out into the garage and stop dead in my tracks. “Where’s that bag I left on the hood of the car?” “Wasn’t it trash?” As I hear the rumble of the garbage truck in the distance, I think of the bag containing my return items and Kohl’s Cash inside. I didn’t see it coming. The room is spinning; I feel my life blood slipping away. He did it, that sneaky man finally did it. 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.

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School

March 15, 2017 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

City of St. Charles School District asks citizens to vote on Proposition KIDS on April 4

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Image courtesy City of St. Charles School District If approved, the flagship project of Proposition KIDS will be the Early Childhood Center (shown here in an artist’s rendering), with a proposed location of 1301 Boone’s Lick Road.

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D U CH ESN E- H S .O RG /D R E A M H O M E www.duchesne-hs.org/dreamhome

On April 4 voters in St. Charles City will be asked to consider a proposition put forth by the City of St. Charles School District. The proposition, which is titled “Proposition KIDS”, is a $47 million no tax-rate increase bond issue that allows the district to borrow money only to be used for facility repairs, renovations and other capital projects. “We are able to ask for this bond without raising the debt service tax rate due to the district’s efforts to pay off existing bond issue debt ahead of schedule,” said Dr. Jeff Marion, superintendent of the City of St. Charles School District. “Passing this bond issue will allow us to address facility needs without dipping into our operating fund, which would greatly reduce the odds of needing a potential tax rate hike in the future. A successful bond issue helps ensure a strong financial future for the district.” If approved, the flagship project of Proposition KIDS will be the Early Childhood Center. With a proposed location of 1301 Boone’s Lick Road, the Early Child Center will feature 16 early childhood and early childhood special education

classrooms with attached bathrooms, multiple therapy rooms to serve the needs of all students, a large multipurpose room, a gross motor skills room and a large outdoor learning playground. The building of the Early Childhood Center would provide approximately 200 additional spaces for students to enroll in the district and remove some of the burden placed upon the elementary schools currently housing preKindergarten programs. In addition to the Early Childhood Center, one of the main goals of Proposition KIDS is to address the most important needs of each school building in the district. While some buildings need more work than others, every school has projects that will be addressed should the voters approve Proposition KIDS. “The passing of Proposition KIDS would allow us to continue to offer all our students and community up-to-date facilities across the district,” said Dr. Marion. “We feel it is important to be able to provide our students with the best possible learning environment.”

Holt senior selected as National Merit Scholarship Finalist

www.shoesandhope.org

www.wentzville-mo.minutemanpress.com

Matthew Brawner, from Holt High School, has been selected as a finalist in the 62nd annual National Merit Scholarship Program. Finalists represent less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors, and have the opportunity to continue in the competition for some 7,500 National Merit Scholarships worth more than $33 million. Merit Scholar designees are selected on the basis of their skills, accomplishments and potential for success in rigorous college studies. Matthew is a member of National Honor Society, is currently enrolled in six Advanced Placement (AP) courses, has scored a 35 on his ACT, maintains a 4.51 GPA, is ranked first in his class and is recognized as an AP Scholar with Distinction. He is also on the awardwinning Holt Scholar Bowl team and has attended both Missouri Scholars Academy and Missouri Boys State. In the 2017 Tri-County Regional Science and Engineering Fair, Matthew earned fourth

place for his project and also received the U.S. Air Force Certificate of Achievement Award. He has been a member of the Holt marching and symphonic bands for four years, and the jazz band for the past two years. He is a section leader for the marching band, and is a member of Freedom Percussion, a local competitive group. Matthew plans to study chemistry and music at Washington University or St. Louis University following graduation. To become a finalist, the semifinalist and their high school must submit a detailed scholarship application in which they provide information about the student’s academic record, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities and honors and awards received. A semifinalist must have an outstanding academic record throughout high school, be endorsed and recommended by a high school official, write an essay, and earn SAT/ ACT scores that confirm the

Photo courtesy Wentzville School District Matthew Brawner, from Holt High School, has been selected as a finalist in the 62nd annual National Merit Scholarship Program.

student’s earlier performance on the qualifying test. Scholarships are underwritten by NMSC with its own funds and by approximately 420 business organizations and higher education institutions that share NMSC’s goals of honoring the nation’s scholastic champions and encouraging the pursuit of academic excellence.

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • March 15, 2017

The Monsanto Fund presents grant to Operation Food Search

Submitted photo The Monsanto Fund, the philanthropic arm of Monsanto Company, recently awarded a grant of more than $16,000 to Operation Food Search that will be used for the organization’s Operation Backpack program, which will benefit food-insecure children from the School District of Washington, Missouri.

The Monsanto Fund, the philanthropic arm of Monsanto Company, recently awarded a grant of more than $16,000 to Operation Food Search (OFS), a hunger relief organization that provides food to the area’s hungry. The grant will be used for the organization’s Operation Backpack program, which will benefit food-insecure children from the School District of Washington, Missouri. The grant will enable OFS to continue directly serving 125 children at risk for weekend hunger by providing 4,000 backpacks filled with a healthy mix of foods and nutrition information throughout the 2017-2018 school year. Research shows that, compared to metropolitan areas, there are many challenges in rural communities including limited social services; higher concentration of employment in lowwage industries; greater unemployment and underemployment; decreased accessibility to public transportation networks, and; lack of available work-support services such as flexible and affordable child care. The Monsanto Fund is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to strengthening the communities where farmers and Monsanto employees live and work. This is the fifth

consecutive year the organization has provided a grant for the Operation Backpack program to serve children in the Washington, Missouri. school district. “Operation Backpack does not require additional effort from the receiving family, so this program is particularly effective for the School District of Washington where support services and long distance travel can create barriers for a food-insecure child,” said OFS Executive Director Sunny Schaefer. “Teachers report fewer absences and overall better behavior from students in schools where our backpack program is implemented. That’s because children’s hungerrelated issues are alleviated and school staff can completely focus on education.” “Healthy eating and access to nutritious food not only go a long way in helping children achieve at school, but they are essential elements to a dignified and fulfilling life for those children and their families,” said Michelle Insco, Monsanto Fund program officer. “Operation Food Search has been serving St. Louis and surrounding communities for more than 35 years, and due to both their reach and expertise, I cannot imagine a better or more impactful partner.”

Willows Way expanding facility to meet demand for unique community integration program Extensive renovations are underway at St. Charles County-based Willows Way to accommodate its growing Community Integration Program. Established several years ago, the organization’s Community Integration Program gives adults with developmental disabilities, such as autism spectrum disorder, Down syndrome and cerebral palsy, an opportunity to participate in daily structured activities that promote social networking, volunteerism, community involvement and physical activity. “The program has become so popular it has outgrown its current space,” said Willows Way Executive Director Joy Steele. “This program is so unique in its design and has such an outstanding reputation in the community that it quickly filled to its maximum capacity in the space where it is currently

housed. At this time, we have about 25 folks in the program and a growing waiting list of people who want to participate. We simply don’t have the space.” Recognizing the significant need in St. Charles County for adult day services, Willows Way looked to initially expand its program, but opted instead to expand its current facility at 800 Friedens Road to accommodate more participants. Willows Way owns the building that it occupies, but only had offices on the lower level and rented out the office space on the top floor. Over the last year, two of their tenants decided not to renew their leases allowing Willows Way the opportunity to expand within its own building rather than move to a different location. “This expansion option would be less costly and create other efficiencies,” said Steele. “We wouldn’t be remodeling a rented space, but rather one

that we own. We approached the Developmental Disabilities Resource Board for possible funding and they gave us a very generous $200,000 equity grant to offset some of the cost of the project.” Over the next few months, contractors will be renovating the building’s top floor for Willows Way’s business offices, installing stairs and an elevator to connect the two floors, and remodeling the lower level to expand the Community Integration Program, and other programs such as Realities, which provides developmentally disabled adults up to eight hours of individualized services per week. Approximately 12,000 square feet is being renovated, at a cost of nearly $575,000. Steele said she does not anticipate any disruption in services while construction is underway, and is planning an official ribbon cutting ceremony in May, 2017.

Business

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Sports

March 15, 2017 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

Sports you see with Gary B... GAC Outstanding Boys’ Basketball Athletes The following are the recipients of the first, second, All Academic and Sportsmanship teams for boys’ basketball of the Great American Conference.

GAC Outstanding Girls’ Basketball Athletes The following are the recipients of the first, second, All Academic and Sportsmanship teams for girls’ basketball of the Great American Conference.

GAC Boys Central

GAC Girls Central

E.J. Bellinger (Ft. Zumwalt South); Jaylen Sims (Liberty); Anthony Jones (Holt); Marco Powells (Ft. Zumwalt North) Not Pictured - Kaleb Overall (Liberty)

Rachel Pudlowski (Ft. Zumwalt North); Hannah Karl (Ft. Zumwalt South); Kyra Hardesty (Washington); Reese Arnold (Washington); Jackie Arnold (Washington)

GAC Boys North

GAC Girls North

Trent Champagne (St. Charles West); Caleb Strauss (Warrenton); Trevor Alberternst (Warrenton); Matt Burgess (Orchard Farm); Codi Whitlock (St. Charles)

Jenny Jansen (Warrenton); Kayla Nelson (Warrenton); Jamie Hopkins (Orchard Farm); Emma Poindexter (St. Charles West); Alexa Chairs (St. Charles)

GAC Boys South

GAC Girls South

Jake Hampton (Ft. Zumwalt West); Justin Matthews-Wiliams (Francis Howell North); Mike Brohm (Francis Howell); Grady Daniels (Timberland); Brandon Bassham (Troy Buchanan)

Adene Edwards (Troy Buchanan); Tionne Taylor (Francis Howell); Natalie Rushing (Ft. Zumwalt South); Yani Curry (Francis Howell Central); Jordyn Armstrong (Timberland)

Submitted photos

A great amount of gratitude goes to Paul Boschert Athletic Director, Fort Zumwalt West High School who is the President of the Gateway Athletic Conference. ~~~Bright future for these athletes www.stpetersmo.net/rec-plex

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.

Meet the indoor football organization and get free tickets The River City Raiders are a member of the Arena Pro Football league with home games at the Family Arena. The team is inviting fans to come meet your 2017 River City Raiders players, coaches, and staff Tuesday, March 21 from 8 - 10:30 p.m. at Lamborghini Gold Coast Athletic Centre in historic St. Charles. Lamborghini is located at 49 Lawrence Street in St. Charles. Fan fest admission is free. Fans can get autographs, photos and get to know the players, coaches and staff from 8-9 p.m. Practice will begin after that and fans are encouraged to stick around to watch. Your Raiders staff will also have free tickets for the home opener Saturday, March 25 at 7 p.m. at the Family Arena verses the Alabama Outlawz. Go to www.IndoorRaiders.com for more information. ~~~Football is back See solution on page 13

Women’s college hockey playoffs at Family Arena The 2017 NCAA Women’s Frozen Four will be held Friday, March 17 and Sunday, March 19 at the Family Arena in St. Charles. The top four teams in women’s college ice hockey will come to the Gateway City to compete for the national championship. The two semi-final games will be played on Friday, March 17 at 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. and the championship will be on Sunday, March 19 at 2 p.m. Lindenwood University and the St. Louis Sports Commission host the Frozen Four competition. Go to www.STLSports.org/wff for more information. ~~~Elite women’s hockey Gary B. will be broadcasting the “STL Health and Wellness LIVE” show every Saturday from 9-11 am on 590 The Fan and 590TheFan.com 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 co-hosted SportsRadioSTL.com, among many other activities.

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • March 15, 2017

Learn & Play

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Simplify fish Fridays with sheet pan dinners

I

f you’re observing Lent, Friday fish dinners could be in your future, but that’s no reason to feel limited by what you can cook. Seafood pairs well with all sorts of flavors – from chili seasoning to lime extract – and bakes quickly on a sheet pan with minimal cleanup. Follow these simple tips from Dr. Wendy Bazilian, McCormick Health Advisor and Registered Dietitian, to get

your family asking for good-foryou proteins like salmon and shrimp all year long: Wh i l e l e m o n i s a gre at complement to seafood, think about pairing with other citrus flavors like orange and lime. Try marinating shrimp in a mixture of lite coconut milk, lime extract, ginger and red pepper. Add color ful vegetables like zoodles or asparagus to your sheet pan to boost

both seafood and vegetable servings. You don’t need a spiralizer to make zoodles because many grocery stores offer pre-made zoodles in the produce section. Keep shrimp in your freezer to pull out for stir fries, pastas or this Coconut Lime Shrimp with Zoodles recipe. Explore more recipes to enjoy during Lent, spring and beyond at McCormick.com.

Crossword Puzzle: THEME: HOBBIES

Coconut Lime Shrimp with Zoodles Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4 Ingredients: 1/4 cup coconut milk (regular or lite) 1 teaspoon ground ginger 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper 1/4 teaspoon pure lime extract 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined 1 small zucchini, cut into thin noodles with spiralizer 1 medium yellow squash, cut into thin noodles with spiralizer 1 medium carrot, cut into thin noodles with spiralizer 2 tablespoons oil 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper Directions: Heat oven to 375 F. In large, re-sealable plastic bag, mix together coconut milk, ginger, garlic powder, crushed red pepper and lime extract. Add shrimp; turn to coat well. Refrigerate 15-30 minutes. Remove shrimp from marinade. Discard any remaining marinade. In center of large,

shallow, foil-lined baking pan, arrange shrimp in single layer. In large bowl, toss vegetable noodles and oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper; toss to coat well. Spread noodles around shrimp in pan.

Bake 10-15 minutes, or until shrimp turn pink and are cooked through and noodles are tender. Serve shrimp over vegetable noodles. Test kitchen tip: For faster prep, use 4 cups store-bought spiralized vegetable noodles instead of spiralizing them yourself.

Orange Chili Sheet Pan Salmon Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 20 minutes | Servings: 8

Ingredients: Nonstick cooking spray 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 teaspoons pure orange extract 2 pounds salmon fillets, skin removed 1 pound asparagus, ends trimmed 1 medium red bell pepper, cut into strips 1 package chili seasoning mix 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar

Directions: Heat oven to 375 F. Spray foil-lined, 13-by-9-inch baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray.

mix and brown sugar. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons seasoning mixture over vegetables. Sprinkle both sides of salmon evenly with remaining seasoning mixture.

In small bowl, mix together oil and orange extract. Place salmon and vegetables on separate sides of baking sheet. Brush vegetables with 1 teaspoon extract mixture. Brush both sides of salmon with remaining mixture. In small bowl, mix together seasoning

Bake 20 minutes, or until fish flakes easily with a fork and vegetables are tender.

ACROSS

DOWN

1. Tetanus symptom 6. Second mo. 9. Wild guess 13. Ottoman Empire bigwig 14. Unit of length of yarn 15. *Rock collector’s pick-up 16. Blockbuster starring Sigourney Weaver 17. “____ the President’s Men” 18. Lively 19. *Bibliophile’s pastime 21. *Knit or purl 23. Sigma Alpha Epsilon 24. *Birdwatching site 25. Prohibit 28. *Coin collectors amass it 30. Red Sea nation 34. ____ Andrews, sportscaster 36. ____meter or ____scope 38. Caterpillar hairs 40. Cogito ____ sum 41. *Collector’s item to a philatelist 43. One of deadly sins 44. Respected Hindu 46. Boris Godunov, e.g. 47. Buenos ____ 48. Spaghetti ____ 50. In a frenzy 52. Actor Stallone 53. Quiet time 55. Lamb’s mother 57. *Crossword, e.g. 60. *Hobbyist, technically 64. East Asia country, pre-1945 65. Grass bristle 67. Cagey 68. Abraham’s sacrifice 69. Be a witness 70. “Siddhartha” author 71. “Don’s ask, don’t ____” 72. Shape with an ax 73. Domains

1. Practice in the ring

2. Opposite of sun-kissed 3. Most populous continent 4. Storage place, pl. 5. “Flashdance” song 6. *Vexillology subject 7. Underwater electricity generator 8. *Model-builder’s wood 9. Let it stand, to proofreader 10. Cleopatra’s necklace 11. Egyptian hieroglyph for “life” 12. Turkish title of respect 15. Kerri Walsh’s moves 20. Some tides 22. “___ your hand at...” 24. ____ verb, like “ask around” 25. *What an apiarist likes 26. Woven wall hanging 27. *When backyard astronomers gaze 29. Cobblestone 31. Mix together 32. Tiny purses 33. Like Flonase 35. Type of film 37. Mosque V.I.P. 39. *Crafters’ e-outlet 42. Preface 45. Novelist Honoré de ____ 49. 1/100 of afghani 51. Zambian or Malawian money 54. Fido’s restraint 56. Olden day anesthetic 57. Assume a posture 58. Russian mountain range 59. Eagerness 60. Again 61. Alleviate 62. Celestial bear 63. Whiskey grain, pl. 64. *Model-builder’s purchase 66. Diminutive See solution on page 13

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What’s Happening

March 15, 2017 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

Send your event to editor@mycnews.com and we'll print it! EVENTS March 8: Parent Night for Straight Talk on Teen Issues of Suicide, Anxiety and Depression

All parents are invited to attend Parent Night for Straight Talk on Teen Issues of Suicide, Anxiety and Depression. This panel discussion will take place at 7 p.m. at St. Dominic High School’s Amy Dickherber Performing Arts Center at 31 St. Dominic Drive in O’Fallon. Panelists include professionals from a variety of fields, including a pediatrician, counselor, law enforcement officer and representative from the American Federation of Suicide Prevention.

March 9: Credit seminar

West Community Credit Union invites you to attend a free seminar on “Improving Your Credit Score” at 6 p.m. at their O’Fallon Branch located at 4161 Highway K. Attendees will learn how credit scores are calculated, how they can affect you, how to read a credit report, and how to improve a score, ultimately saving you money! Staff will be available following the presentation to review your personal credit report. Light finger foods will be provided. Limited seating available so RSVP today. To reserve your seat, contact Lori Hudson at LHudson@ westcommunitycu.org or call 636720-2402.

March 9-11: Theater performance

Timberland High School Theatre will present Christopher Gieschen’s “The Wild Wild Wildest West.” This musical spoof will be performed by an all-school cast and crew each evening beginning at 7 p.m. The performance will be held at the Carl E. Reininger Theatre. Admission is $6 for adults and $5 for students and tickets will available at the door.

March 11: Drama camp for kids

Francis Howell High School’s Limelight Theatre Soon To Be A Star! Drama Camp for kids takes place from 11 a.m. to approx. 3:30 p.m. at Francis Howell High School at 7001 Hwy. 94 South in St. Charles. Your child can be an actor or actress in a real play, see how lights and sound work on a real theatre stage, discover how stage make-up is applied, try on costumes, choose the right prop to make his or her character come to life and so much more. At the end the day is a fun performance that parents are invited to watch. Lunch and a snack are provided and all participants receive an event T- shirt. Lunch will be cheese or pepperoni pizza a Rice Krispy treat and Capri Sun drink (If your child would prefer to bring their own lunch for dietary issues, please label the lunch with their name.) There will also be a snack of goldfish or fruit snacks. Applications to participate are available by contacting FHHS Limelight Theatre at karenglimelight@gmail.com.

March 11: Park closure

Fort Zumwalt Park in O’Fallon will be closed to the public from 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. for the Smokin Aces Disc Golf Tournament. The tournament will be played on the park’s disc golf course, The Fort. To learn more about the tournament, visit http://smokinacesdg.com/p/2017-smokin-aces-tour.

March 16: Fundraiser trip

The Friends of SSM St. Joseph Auxiliary is promoting a fundraiser for the auxiliary by hosting a trip to the Fox Theatre. Cost is $100 a person which includes the bus transportation, plated lunch and the performance of “Cabaret.” Please call 636-947-5466 if you would like to participate or need more information.

March 16: Job fair

If you’re looking for a summer job, O’Fallon’s Parks and Recreation Department is holding a job fair from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for part-time seasonal and part-time year-round positions. The job fair will be held at the Renaud Spirit Center (RSC) at 2650 Tri Sports Circle in O’Fallon. To prepare, applicants are strongly encouraged to fill out an application at www.ofallon. mo.us/hr in advance of attending the job fair. Applicants also should come prepared for an interview, and in some cases could be hired the same day. Attendees also will have an opportunity to complete an online application at the fair. Available Parks and Recreation positions include lifeguards, swimming instructors, concessions sales, camp counselors, pool cashiers and seasonal park maintenance (April – September). These positions are either part-time seasonal or part-time year round, and are not eligible for benefits. Training is available. Except for park maintenance applicants who must be 18-plus, applicants must be at least 16 years of age and able to work a flexible schedule that can include evenings, holidays and weekends. For FAQs about applying with the City and a list of current job opportunities, including those to be offered at the Job Fair, visit O’Fallon’s Human Resources webpage, www.ofallon.mo.us/hr.

March 17: Scholarship deadline

West Community Credit Union is accepting applications for their annual scholarship program. There are five $1,500 scholarships available to graduating high school seniors. Applications are available at www.westcommunitycu.org and are due March 17. For more information, visit online or stop by a local branch.

March 17: Trivia night

Music Trivia Night to benefit LTM Missions (Lord Tabernacle Ministry) takes place at Wentzville Community Center at 500 West Main Street. Doors open at 6 p.m., trivia begins at 7 p.m. Bring snacks, beer available for sale. For general questions call Bob Bristow at 636-357-9789; for tickets go to eventbrite.com/e/music-trivia-nighttickets-31920838086.

March 17: “Wearing O’ the Green” dance

The St. Peters Cultural Arts Centre will host the “Wearing O’ the Green” dance featuring the music of Fanfare. The dance begins at 7 p.m. Tickets are $7 per person at the door. Show a St. Peters Resident Privilege Card at the door and receive a discount of $1 off admission. Soda will be available for purchase. Feel free to bring your own snacks. The St. Peters Cultural Arts Centre is located at One St. Peters Centre Blvd. in St. Peters. For more information call 636-397-6908, ext. 1624.

March 17-26: Theater performances

Young People’s Theatre will perform “Disney’s The Little Mermaid” at 7 p.m. March 17 and March 24; 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. March 18, and March 25; and 2 p.m. March 19, and March 26, in the Donald D. Shook Fine Arts Building theater on the St. Charles Community College campus. The campus is located at 4601 Mid Rivers Mall Drive in Cottleville. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at stchastickets. com, in the Continuing Education office in Humanities Building Room 103 or by calling 636-922-8233.

March 19: Band concert

The St. Charles Municipal Band presents the 2017 Spring Concert at 2 p.m. at St. Charles High School at 725 N Kingshighway in St. Charles. This free family-friendly concert is in a

new venue, and features the concert band and the big band in performance of new repertoire and other audience favorites. For further information, please call 636-949-2590 or 314-8785296, or visit www.stcharlesband.com.

March 21: Theater performance

It’s theater time when the Time for Tea series returns to the St. Peters Cultural Arts Centre from 1 - 3 p.m. Come see “Julius Caesar,” a play adapted and directed by Joanna Battles and presented by the Shakespeare Festival St. Louis Education Tour. The cost is $10 per person and includes dessert, tea and/or coffee. St. Peters Cultural Arts Centre members receive $1 off admission. Register in person at the St. Peters Cultural Arts Centre or by phone at 636-397-6903, ext. 1624. When registering, be sure to mention any dietary restrictions. The St. Peters Cultural Arts Centre is located inside St. Peters City Hall at One St. Peters Centre Blvd. in St. Peters.

March 21: Candidates forum

The Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council (MYAC) will host a candidates’ forum at 7 p.m. for the mayoral and city council candidates on the ballot in the O’Fallon general municipal election on April 4. The forum will be moderated by the MYAC, and each candidate will have two minutes to respond to questions posed by MYAC members. Candidates also will have an opportunity to make opening and closing statements of three minutes each. The candidates’ forum will be held in the City Council Chambers at the O’Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall) at 100 North Main Street in O’Fallon. The public is welcome to attend the event, which also will be broadcast live on O’FallonTV via Charter cable channel 991 and AT&T U-verse channel 99, and on the city’s website at www.ofallon.mo.us.

March 24: Country music concert

Country artists Leona and Ron Williams will appear at the St. Peters Cultural Arts Centre Performing Arts Theatre at 7 p.m. Advance tickets are available through Brown Paper Tickets for $13.99 (plus service fee of 3.5 percent) by calling 1-800-838-3006 or online at brownpapertickets.com. Any seats still available will be $20 at the door. The St. Peters Cultural Arts Centre is located at One St. Peters Centre Blvd. in St. Peters.

March 24: Trivia night

Trivia night at Fort Zumwalt North High School to benefit the Scholar Quiz Team will take place from 6:30 – 10 p.m. at 1230 Tom Ginnever Ave. in O’Fallon. The theme is “Passports” and cost is $90 for a table of eight (includes mulligans!). Soda and water are provided Bring snacks. This is a no alcohol event. Please call Ms. Gianini to reserve your spot at 636-272-4447.

March 25: Guitar lessons for veterans

Franks Heroes is a nonprofit foundation that has offered beginner and intermediate guitar lessons to veterans for the past four years. The location for classes is at the Foundry Art Centre on Main Street in St. Charles. Sponsors of Franks Heroes have been the Mel Bay Company and the James Burton Foundation. On March 25 Bill Bay will speak about the Mel Bay story and also do some guitar “picking.” Helping out with guitar instructions are Bill Dennis, Jim Huckelberry, John Baker and Rick Brunk. Classes are presently on Saturdays, 10 to 11 a.m. Starting in April classes will move to Sunday 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. through the end of May. Classes will be suspended in June, July and August and resume in September.

March 25: German heritage group meeting

Fruehschoppen Samstag Verein (FSV) the last Saturday of every month: At-

tendees are predominantly German born/raised people who get together at 11 a.m. in St Charles to speak German, eat a late breakfast or early lunch and sip a cool drink or two. Wir treffen uns auf ein Bier (und vielleicht Mittagessen), und geniessen ein Gespräch auf deutsch. Over 50 percent of attendees were born or raised in Germany and over 50 percent live in St Charles County. March meeting location will be Culpepper’s Restaurant at 3010 W Clay St. in St Charles (South side of I-70 at Zumbehl Road).

March 28: Speaker event

St. Charles Presbyterian Church is hosting a speaker event on “Bullying in Social Media.” This free event is open to everyone and will be held at 7 p.m. at St. Charles Presbyterian Church located at 131 Gamble St. adjacent to Lindenwood University. RSVPs are appreciated but not required. A RSVP is required if babysitting is needed. RSVPs can be made to the church office by calling 636-946-4467. Mark Norwine from Chad’s Coalition will be speaking about ongoing social media pitfalls, bullying trends, and proper ways to deal with and report bullying situations to end mistreatment to others. More information can be found on the church’s website at www.scpcusa.org.

March 26: Fundraiser event

Bring the family to the Leaps of Love Spring Fundraiser to benefit children with cancer and their families at Rose Hill at 11122 Olive Blvd. in Creve Coeur from 2 – 4 p.m. There will be free admission, vendors, karaoke, door prizes, auction and more. For more information contact Kathy Hubbard at 314-378-6129 or kkfundraising2014@gmail.com.

March 28: Business ethics panel

Local community leaders, faculty, staff and students will have an opportunity to attend an informative, engaging, free Business Ethics Panel at Lindenwood University in St. Charles in Dunseth Auditorium in Harmon Hall at 209 South Kingshighway in St. Charles from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. The session, which will focus on real-life ethical dilemmas experienced by local business professionals, will also include their firsthand, personal approach to resolution. The event is sponsored by the Liberty & Ethics Center at the Hammond Institute for Free Enterprise in partnership with the St. Charles Rotary Club. As a part of the panel discussion, there will be an opportunity for an interactive Q&A. The upcoming ethics panel is free and open to the general public. Light refreshments will be served; registration is not required. For questions or more information, please call Carol Felzien at the Hammond Institute at 636-627-2915 or via email at CFelzien@lindenwood.edu.

March 30-April 1: Theater performance

Liberty Theatre will present Pat Cook’s “You Can’t Beat the House” on March 30, 31 and April 1. This comedy is performed beginning at 7 p.m. each evening. Performances will be held in the Liberty High School Commons. Admission is $5 for adults and $4 for students.

April 1: Easter musical

Kidz Praize of Wentzville Christian Church will present an Easter musical entitled “Easter Praise Parade.” The free performance will be at 6 p.m. and everyone is invited to attend. Join the group of 25 elementary students as they portray a group of friends trying to organize a neighborhood parade to celebrate the true meaning of Easter. The 45 minute production includes lots of great music, humor and choreography. Wentzville Christian Church is located at 1507 Highway Z in Wentzville. For more information call 636-327-6622 or visit the website at wentzvillecc.org.

April 6-8: Theater performance

The Francis Howell High School’s Award Winning Limelight Theatre proudly presents their Spring Production of the Pulitzer Prize winning play “Crimes of the Heart” by Beth Henley. Performances will take place April 6, 7 and 8 beginning at 7 p.m. nightly with an additional 1 p.m. matinee on April 8 in the Auditorium of Francis Howell High at 7001 Hwy. 94 South, St. Charles. Tickets are $5 per person for all shows and are available at the door. For more information, please contact Edward Cole, Theatre Director at Edward.cole@fhsdschools.org.

April 7: Underwater egg hunt

What’s pools of fun for kids ages fourto-12? It’s the O’Fallon Parks and Recreation Underwater Egg Hunt at the Renaud Spirit Center (RSC) at 2650 Tri Sports Circle in O’Fallon. The event will be held from 6 – 8 p.m. and the Easter Bunny is sure to be there. The cost is $12 for O’Fallon residents and $15 for non-residents, and preregistration is required by March 31. For the hunt, kids will be divided into age groups to search for eggs, and prizes will be awarded after the eggs are collected. Kids should bring swim goggles and a waterproof container for egg gathering. Parents can register kids at the Renaud Spirit Center, or online at www.ofallon.mo.us/ parks&rec. Select “Special Events” and look for Underwater Egg Hunt, course number 410104-A. Family members who want to swim but who are not participating in the egg hunt can register for $5 (410104-B). For more information, please call front desk staff at 636-474-2732.

April 7: Fish fry

A fish fry will take place at All Saints Parish at 7 McMenamy Road in St. Peters each Friday evening during Lent except Good Friday from 4 - 7 p.m. sponsored by the Knights of Columbus. Eat in, carry out and drive-up service available.

April 8: Veterans connect event

Veterans Connect is a special, one-ofa-kind, free event that will connect our local veterans with the benefits that are available to them at the St Charles Community College/Student College Center Building at 4601 Mid Rivers Mall Dr. in Cottleville from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. The event will have several information booths and companies providing free suits for veterans for job interviews. Provided by Dress for Success/Connections to Success. They will also provide information stating all the benefits and classes they provide for veterans. Money Management Education; there will be classes how to rebuild your credit, and a lot more. Education Information; veteran friendly schools, St Charles Community College and Ranken College will be there providing class information and to answer questions regarding the GI Bill. Free food will be provided. Veteran information will be provided by the following attendees: St Charles County Workforce Development, Missouri Veterans Commission, St. Louis Police Academy Recruiter, VA Home Loan Specialist, Commerce Bank, St. Joachim & Ann. Many other veteran related information will also be provided. For more information visit http://veteransconnectevent.weebly.com/.

April 21, 23: Choir concert

Choral Arts Singers, Francis Howell North High School Concert Choir, and members of the St. Charles Symphony will perform Joseph Haydn’s “Kleine Orgelmasse mass in B/Bflat Major” and other selections on April 21 at 7:30 p.m. at Zion Lutheran Church at 3866 S. Old Hwy 94 in St. Charles, and April 23 at 2 p.m. at Assumption Chapel at 403 N. Main in O’Fallon. Admission is $7 for adults and $3 for children (ages six-18). For more information visit www.concertarts.org.

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • March 15, 2017 April 14: Good Friday service

Ministry to Men is holding their annual Good Friday Service at Grace Community Chapel St. Peters at 7661 Mexico Rd. in St. Peters. Featured speaker is Michael Burke author of “Waiting to Die, Running to Live.” Doors open at 7 a.m. and the service concludes at 11:30 a.m. Refreshments provided, all men are welcome. For more information contact Derrill Martin at dmartin@ministrytomen.net or call 636720-1202.

April 22: Plant sale

The Lincoln County Master Gardeners sixth annual plant sale takes place from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. in the front parking lot of Valvoline Express Care at The Plaza in Troy. (Rain date April 29). For more information, please call 636528-4613 or check out the Facebook page, Lincoln County Master Gardeners.

April 28: Trivia night

Girlfriends for Good will hold its seventh annual trivia night to benefit Youth In Need at the Machinists’ Hall in Bridgeton at 12365 St. Charles Rock Road. Tables of eight are $200 and include beer, soda and snacks. Doors open at 6 p.m., trivia begins at 7 p.m. Sponsor a round for $50. All proceeds benefit Youth In Need. For more information, contact Cody Finan, Community Engagement Coordinator, at cfinan@youthinneed.org or 636-7579334.

April 29: Benefit shrimp boil

Friedens UCC, at 1703 Old Hwy 94 S in St. Charles, is hosting its annual Benefit Shrimp Boil at 6 p.m. 100 percent of the proceeds will benefit the Back Bay Mission in Biloxi, Mississippi. Call 636-724-1918 to get your reservations, seating is limited. For more information go to www.friedensucc.org.

April 30: All-you-can-eat breakfast

The Knights of Columbus at St. Robert Bellarmine Church at 1424 First Capitol Drive South in St. Charles will hold an all-you-can-eat breakfast from 8 to 11:30 a.m. Breakfast includes: madeto-order omelets, pancakes, sausages, scrambled eggs, biscuits and gravy, juice, milk and coffee (cost for adults is $7, children six to 11 are $4, children five and under are free). In addition a blood drive will be held at the same time as the breakfast. Those who donate blood that day will receive a free breakfast. For additional information please call 636-946-6799”

May 5: Job fair

St. Charles Community College will host Job Fair 2017 from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. in the College Center, located at 4601 Mid Rivers Mall Drive in Cottleville. Admission is free to all job seekers. This fair provides opportunities for job seekers to find job leads, job training and job search information and networking opportunities. Job seekers are encouraged to bring copies of their resume. Interested employers may register online at www.stchas.edu/jobfair, beginning March 1. Space is limited, so register early. Employer registrations will be accepted until April 28. The fair is open to business and industry employers from profit and nonprofit organizations. The annual event is sponsored by three cooperating St. SUDOKU answers from page 10

Charles County agencies and institutions. Last year, 330 area job seekers attended the event. A registration fee of $70 for nonprofit organizations or $95 for profit organizations includes one 2.5’x6’ table, two chairs, a continental breakfast, up to two box lunches and all advertising for the event. For more information about the fair, Jenny Hahn Schnipper, 636-922-8244 or jschnipper@stchas.edu.

May 5-7: Theater performance

Wentzville Christian Church proudly presents a community theater production of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.” The church will offer four performances of the musical: May 5 at 7 p.m.; May 6 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. and a special matinee on May 7 at 2 p.m. Admission to the performances is free and open to the public. Seating is first come, first served. Doors open 30 minutes before each performance. Wentzville Christian Church is located at 1507 Hwy. Z (1 mile south of I-70). For more information call 636327-6622 or visit the church website at wentzvillecc.org.

May 13: Pancake breakfast

The Knights of Columbus council 7198 Ladies Auxiliary will host a Chris Cakes Pancake Breakfast at Knights of Columbus Pezold Banquet Center at 5701 Highway N in Cottleville from 8 to 11 a.m. The price is $7 for adults and $4 for kids which includes all-you-caneat pancakes, sausage, orange drink and coffee. There will also be specialty cakes for sale for Mother’s Day.

Sept. 9: Craft fair

Tri County Advisory Board to Probation and Parole, Probation and Parole District 17, Missouri Department of Correction invites you to their Fifth Annual Christmas in September Craft Fair at Calvary Church at 3998 Mid Rivers Mall Drive in St. Peters from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Crafters are needed, please contact Esther Angelos at marlofan@charter.net, 636-441-0329 or 314-477-5096

ONGOING EVENTS Sundays and Tuesdays: Central Missouri Railroad Association meeting

The Central Missouri Railroad Association meets at Suite 20 in the Warrenton Outlet Mall. 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 Sundays from 1 to 5 p.m. and Tuesdays from 7 to 9 p.m. For more info call 636-2795522 or 636-456-0776.

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 Blanchette Park at 1900 Randolph Street in St. Charles. For more information contact Grace at 636-9464687.

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 CROSSWORD answers from page 11

beginning at 8:30 a.m. For more information please all Linda Wilcox at 636-447-9056.

1st Monday: Gardeners of St. Charles County Monthly Meeting 6:30pm. Location varies. 314.304.7480.

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.

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March 15, 2017 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

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March 15, 2017 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

“Beauty and the Beast”

By Steve Bryan

‘Beauty and the Beast’: a tempest in Mrs. Potts?

M O V I E

Disney’s new live-action adaptation of their animated “Beauty and the Beast” stands to knock out the competition at the box office. With Emma Watson, Josh Gad and Kevin Kline in the cast, this is a definite crowd pleaser with a built-in audience. Fans who grew up with the original are almost sure to take their children to see this one. Some die-hard Disney lovers aren’t happy about a few pre-release revelations, though. In the adaptation, the always enjoyable Josh Gad plays LeFou, the sidekick of this piece’s villain, Gaston (Luke Evans). Unlike the typical bromance in most films, LeFou is in love with his egotistical buddy, making him one of the first openly gay characters in the Disney Universe. That revelation has some folks up in arms, pointing to a possible LGBT agenda. Surprisingly enough, the same argument was made over “Frozen,” a monster hit from the House of Mouse. Russian authorities are even talking about a ban of the film. On the home front, at least one Alabama theater owner has said he will not show it at his drivein because of the relationship

between LeFou and Gaston. Having an openly gay character in “Beauty and the Beast” is a bold move for the studio, which has been conservative about such things in the past. The legendary Walt Disney tried to keep things safe and familyfriendly, especially with projects like Disneyland. In the 1980’s, Disney did start the Touchstone label for edgier material, but still kept their animated projects as kid-friendly as possible. The reimagined LeFou does represent modern society, though, as same-sex marriages and partnerships become more common. The venerable Walt

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photo shoot in “Vanity Fair.” The shoot, to be honest, was well-done, but some fans took exception to her exposing her cleavage. They felt that such exposure contradicted Watson’s strong feminist beliefs. She’s a UN Goodwill Ambassador, but she’s being taken to task for one photo. When it comes right down to it, all this furor is just a tempest in Mrs. Potts, the teapot. “Beauty and the Beast” is a movie, Photo courtesy Walt Disney Pictures plain and simple. People can and will express their feelings at Disney Studios is simply chang- the box office, but this film will ing with the times. Even last be highly successful despite the year’s monster hit “Zootopia” outrage. featured two characters that “Beauty and the Beast” opens apparently were in a same-sex on Friday, March 17. marriage. Emma Watson, much beloved Born and raised in South St. as Hermione Granger in the Louis, Steve Bryan is now based in “Harry Potter” franchise, also Anaheim, California, and has been found herself awash in a sea of allowed access to movie and telecriticism. The actress plays the vision sets to see actors and direccoveted role of Belle in the ad- tors at work. Though his writing has taken him far from St. Louis, Steve aptation and photos of her in is, at heart, still the gold ball gown are stunning. the same wideShe seemed like the right choice eyed kid who for one of Disney’s most beloved spent countless hours watching heroines. classic movies Recently Watson, a self-pro- at neighborhood claimed feminist, posed for a theaters.