CNSTC: June 22, 2022

June 22, 2022

Catch a rising star

Around Town

St. Joseph Hospital welcomes state-of-theart surgical system. Pg.3

School

Wentzville students earn fire truck rides to school for outstanding attendance . Pg. 7

Features

Submitted photo James Jones, a worship leader at O’Fallon’s SunRise Church, is Local Christian songwriter and singer, James Jones (Leader of ‘The Rescued’ Band) has made it to the second round of a nationwide contest which supports Christian song writers, artists and music groups.

O’Fallon singer-songwriter and worship leader advances in national contest for Christian musical artists

By Brett Auten Armed with a collection of catchy songs with a righteous message, O’Fallon’s James Jones is garnering-nationwide attention.

The Christian singer-songwriter has made it to the second round of a nationwide contest which supports Christian song writers, artists and music groups.

Jones, who is a worship leader at SunRise Church, entered the contest on a lark, but has suddenly found himself propelled toward the pick of the litter of the You God’s Music Showcase.

The 41-year-old Arkansas native has been

“The momentum has been insane. I think, as we’re coming out of COVID, there is an excitement, an energy, a buzz.” ~ James Jones, singer-songwriter at O’Fallon’s SunRise Church since 2014.

He is a third-generation worship leader who is well-versed and trained in various forms of music.

“The momentum has been insane,” he said. “I think, as we’re coming out of

COVID, there is an excitement, an energy, a buzz.”

Videos for the semifinalist went live over the weekend at yougodsmusic.org and voting will take place through July 3. Only the top five contestants will move onto the finals.

The winner of the You, God’s Music Showcase gets to record their single in the popular Newsboys (global Christian Rock Stars) private recording studio of the Newsboys, a global Christian rock act, in Nashville. The winner also gets to record a professional music video for the song. CeSee ‘STAR’ page 2

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Around Town

June 22, 2022 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

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

Huneke Publications, Inc. 2139 Bryan Valley Commercial Dr. O’Fallon, MO 63366 PH: 636-379-1775 FX: 636-379-1632 Published weekly since 1921.

Serving St. Louis, St. Charles and Lincoln Counties.

Publisher/ Editor-in-Chief Mathew DeKinder Publisher Emeritus/ General Manager Robert J. Huneke Production Manager Rebecca Brockmann Production Assistant Melissa Nordmann Copy Editor Donna Huneke Staff Writers Brett Auten, Wendy Todd, Laurie Simon Columnists Gary Baute, Steve Bryan, Cindy Moore Cartoonist John Hanna Social Media Lori North Classiied Advertising Brooke Tolle Display Advertising Heather Deatz, Bob Huneke, Norm Merchant, Laurie Simon Circulation 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 2021 Huneke Publications, Inc. with all rights reserved. No part of the publications may be repr duced in any form without permission in writing from the publisher/editor.

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lebrity judges include national artists from talent such as The Voice and American Idol finalist Danny Goeke as the headliner for the live show.

Jones is calling out for support of the St. Louis community to advance to the third round where the celebrity judges weigh in on who will go to the final live performance in San Antonio Texas this July. The general public will have the opportunity to cast their votes and support contestants. However, in the semifinals, 50% of the final score will be calculated from the judges’ votes, and 50% of the score will be calculated from the number of votes that contestants receive from the general public.

Jones is the leader of The Rescued, a collection of local worship leaders.

“We were searching for ways that we could collaborate,” Jones said. “We wanted to get past our little bubble.”

They have gone well-beyond that.

Submitted photo James Jones, a worship leader at O’Fallon’s SunRise Church, is Local Christian songwriter and singer, James Jones (Leader of ‘The Rescued’ Band) has made it to the second round of a nationwide contest which supports Christian song writers, artists and music groups.

The Rescued have had much success on independent Christian radio. Jones’ songs have made it to the top of the Christian music charts. “iPraise” which hit No.1 in March of 2021.

“Fill My Cup” made it to No. 1 and remained in the top 10 for

Wentzville to host Fourth of July celebration Wentzville’s Fourth of July Celebration will include a parade, free swim at Progress Park Pool (for residents and season pass holders only) and free fireworks visible from Progress Park.

We are proud to announce that this year Mark Schmitz will be Grand Marshal of the Fourth of July Parade. Mark and his wife Jaclyn are the founders of Freedom 13, a nonprofit (application pending) created to honor the life of their son, Jared Schmitz and all thirteen United States service members lost on Aug. 26, 2021 in Kabul, Afghanistan.

Freedom 13 is dedicated to improving quality of life at home for service members by providing homes, PTSD support, recreational retreats and service dogs to veterans. Through these efforts, they aim to strengthen the bonds veterans share with their families and rediscover themselves.

The parade starts at 10 a.m. at the Wentzville Ice Arena and travels south on Luetkenhaus Boulevard, turns right onto Pearce Boulevard and ends at the Wentzville Community Historical Society Museum at Pearce Boulevard and Allen Street.

Everyone is invited to participate in the parade by designing a float. This year’s theme is “Wentzville Cheers to 150 Years.” Floats will be judged for overall first-, second- and third-place, along with Mayor’s Choice and Best Musical Entry for first and second-place.

After the parade there will be a fun-filled afternoon at Progress Park, which is located at 968 Meyer Rd. From noon to 5 p.m., free swimming will be available at Progress Park Pool for residents and passholders only.

Please note: parking at Progress Park will be limited. Guests are invited to drive-in and drop-off attendees before they park off-site.

This year’s event does have changes from years past. To learn more, please visit www.wentzvillemo.gov/fourthofjuly.

the entire year. The Rescued’s music is available on all streaming platforms and more information can be found on its website, www.betherescued.com.

“It has spread past Sunrise, moved past St. Charles and beyond,” Jones said. “The ultimate

goal is to get on JOY FM with new music from the Rescued on there every four or five months.”

For more information, including how to vote for Jones, visit yougodsmusic.org.

Local school community donates over $7,000 to support Ukrainian children and families

Submitted photo

Surely a walk to remember, preschool teachers, students and parents at Primrose School at St. Charles Community College raised $7,380 for Save the Children’s Ukraine Crisis Relief Fund by collecting per-lap pledged donations for their walkathon event. The school set up an online sponsorship system for the 60 children who walked to raise money. The event even included a food truck and live music for attendees to enjoy.

Save the Children’s mission is to provide children and their families with psychological and social support, hygiene kits and access to basic necessities. Giving without expectation is an essential part of Primrose’s Balanced Learning curriculum and the focus of Primrose Promise Giving events.

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • June 22, 2022

St. Joseph Hospital welcomes state-ofthe-art da Vinci Xi surgical system

Submitted photo SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital – St. Charles now offers minimally invasive robotic surgery using the da Vinci Xi surgical system.

As a dedicated community health care provider, SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital – St. Charles is committed to providing high quality care. The hospital now offers minimally invasive robotic surgery using the da Vinci Xi surgical system. Along with their dedicated and highly trained surgeons and staff, this system will allow patients to heal faster with less pain and scarring.

“SSM Health has a long and storied history here in St. Charles,” said Jake Brooks, President of St. Joseph Hospital - St. Charles. “Through the years, we have evolved to meet the changing health needs of our community. The da Vinci Robot represents a substantial commitment from SSM Health to our patients, employees, and the expert physicians who perform these life-saving procedures.”

Robotic surgery has many advantages for appropriate patients, including smaller incisions and reduced recovery times. At SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital - St. Charles, the new-

ly launched da Vinci surgical system gives the surgeon 100 percent control of the robotic-assisted system, which translates his or her hand movements into smaller, more precise movements of tiny instruments inside the patient’s body. The system’s 3D-HD vision system provides surgeons a highly magnified view (up to 10X), virtually extending their eyes and hands.

When recommended by a surgeon, the da Vinci surgical system can be used for these procedures: colorectal (colon resection, colorectal surgery), general surgery (hernia repair, gallbladder surgery), gynecology (hysterectomy for endometriosis, cancer, fibroid resection, and ovarian cystectomy), thoracic (lung resection for cancer), and urology (kidney surgery/ nephrectomy and prostatectomy for cancer).

These advancements in innovative surgical care are now available close to home for SSM Health patients in the St. Charles community.

www.agingahead.org

Around Town

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Around Town

June 22, 2022 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

Lake Saint Louis Police Department giving back to the community with Red Cross blood drive The Lake Saint Louis Police Department will host a community blood drive with the American Red Cross on June 22, from 1 to 6 p.m., at the Lake Saint Louis Civic Center at 200 Civic Center Drive.

“Lake Saint Louis Police Department is committed to strengthening our community and helping meet hospital and patient needs through blood donations,” said Officer Susie Ochs, Community Resource Officer. “This blood drive is our way of giving staff, colleagues and neighbors an op-

portunity to help save lives.”

Blood is routinely transfused to patients with cancer and other diseases, premature babies, organ transplant recipients and trauma victims, according to the Red Cross.

“The short amount of time it takes to donate can mean a lifetime to a patient with a serious medical condition. We urge eligible donors to join us in the selfless act of giving blood,” said Ochs.

As a thank you from Red Cross, all donors at this drive will receive

a $5 e-gift card to a merchant of choice and will automatically be registered to win a VIP trip for two to Graceland.

To make an appointment go to redcrossblood.org and enter sponsor code: LSLPD or call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-7332767). Completion of a RapidPass online health history questionnaire found at redcrossblood.org/ rapidpass is encouraged to help speed up the donation process.

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Fleur de Lis Garden Club presents Garden of the Month Award for June Catherine and Jim Ebone of 2823 Sundowner are proud recipients of the Garden of the Month award for June presented by the Fleur de Lis Garden Club.

They were presented with a gift card to El Mel which provides bedding plants and other garden supplies. They will also display our garden sign in their yard for the month of June.

The Ebones have nourished annuals and perennials for almost 30 years in their beautiful flower beds. A tour around their gardens provides a dazzling variety of perennials and annuals such as pansies, sundrops, brown eyed Susans, butterfly bush, blue lobelia, columbine, chrysanthemums, Stokes aster, clamatis, salvia, blue flax, catmint, anemones, daylilies, sea oats, peonies, flocks, false indigo, beard tongue, crepe myrtle, vinca, bee balm, turtle head, daisies, Montauk daisy, gloriosa daisy, berbascum, bugleweed, Japanese painted fern, Jacob’s ladder, and hummingbird trumpet vine.

This homogeneous variety of plants provides much needed nectar for pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds.

No garden would be complete without the necessary vegetable garden and the Ebones have a

Submitted photo

healthy one sporting cucumbers, tomato plants and green beans.

Catherine Ebone has been gardening for almost 30 years and was inspired by her father’s large vegetable garden when she was growing up. She is a master gardener and credits her husband Jim for his help in digging and weeding.

If you are interested in gardening and have or know of a garden in St. Charles County worthy of this award, please contact Joan, Garden of the Month Chairman at joanreed7@att.net or phone 636-373-2756 and leave a message.

The club meets on third Thursdays of the month at varied locations. More information is available at www.fleurdelisgardenclub.org.

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • June 22, 2022

Business

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BCI partners with Warren County agency to meet capacity, increase opportunities Boone Center, Inc. (BCI) – a nonprofit that improves the lives of adults with disabilities through employment opportunities – has partnered with Warren County Sheltered Workshop, Inc. (WCSW) in Truesdale, Missouri to expand job opportunities and production capacity for both organizations.

“We are proud to be seen as a center of excellence in both packaging and disability employment services, but it’s been a challenge to meet the growing demands of our packaging enterprise that supports our organizational employment program,” said BCI CEO Troy Compardo.

Headquartered in St. Peters, BCI is one of the largest contract packagers in the country and one of the largest employers of adults with developmental disabilities in the state.

The idea to add partners came out of BCI’s strategic planning process in 2021. By engaging other agencies who also employ adults with disabilities, they hoped to increase capacity and capabilities while serving everyone’s greater mission.

“Our ultimate goal is to share sustainable, meaningful work with other organizations and create more jobs for people with disabilities throughout the region,” said BCI Chief Operations Officer Jack Guthrie. “It’s a solution that helps everyone.”

BCI’s partnership with WCSW began in October and works well due to the organizations’ relatively close proximity. Located in neighboring Warren County, WCSW serves a different geographic region of adults with disabilities. However, the distance of just 27 miles between the two facilities provides seamless logistics for the supply chain.

When BCI approached WCSW Executive Director Jami Washburn with the idea, she had a list of 20 individuals with disabilities waiting to start work.

The ISO-certified organization just needed the right mix of work to employ them.

Through discussion and analysis of WCSW’s capacity and future capabilities, BCI was able to bring on a new customer that matched the skills and capabilities of their new partner.

“Warren County Sheltered Workshop has been working with BCI as an outsource location for a while now,” said WCSW Executive Director Jami Washburn. “The partnership is important to our shared mission to inspire and support people with disabilities.

We help people with disabilities to be successful and perform quality work for our customers.”

In addition to sharing production work, BCI also offers provides its partners with specialized training and ser-

Submitted photo Boone Center, Inc. has partnered with Warren County Sheltered Workshop, Inc. in Truesdale, Missouri to expand job opportunities and production capacity for both organizations.

vices. Under the partnership agreement, all partners must use Nulogy, a supply chain and resource-planning platform, to manage estimates, orders, inventory and scheduling. Because of this requirement, BCI provides the license and training so that their packaging customers have full visibility into the extended supply chain. Also under the agreement, BCI commits to purchase or lease equipment as well as provide maintenance support to enhance a partner’s capabilities or throughput.

Outside of production, BCI also provides four hours of social services support each month. Together, the agen-

cies can work together to tackle new employment processes, procedures or training for the partner’s adults with disabilities.

“As an agency accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities, we have met internationally recognized standards for program quality,” added Compardo.

“We believe it is important to share these practices in order to elevate and expand employment services for people with disabilities across Missouri.

That’s really something to be excited about.”

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ters that your local dollars STAY LOCAL. It matters that the decision-makers on your business account or home loan are your neighbors, friends, or the people beside you at your place of worship.

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School

June 22, 2022 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

Wentzville students earn fire truck rides to school for outstanding attendance The Wentzville School District (WSD) and the Wentzville Fire Protection District (WFPD) teamed up again this year to reward elementary students who have excellent attendance and have laid the groundwork for future success.

During the last weeks of school, one lucky fifth grader from each elementary school in the WSD got a ride to school on a WFPD fire truck as a reward for their K-5 attendance and achievement.

District students selected for the distinction this year: • Boone Trail – Nora Hodai • Crossroads – Lucas Ponder • Discovery Ridge – Noah Koh

• Duello – Victoria Cope • Green Tree – Woodson Downey • Heritage – Jaxson Davis • Journey – Ethan Callaway • Lakeview – Mia Desemone • Peine Ridge – Christian Nolting • Prairie View – Aarav Survi • Stone Creek – Avery Saunders • Wabash – Anabella Ellenbecker “We appreciate the WFPD for continuing this tradition by rewarding our students at the end of the school year in a very special and memorable way,” said Brynne Cramer, WSD Chief Communications Officer.

Photo courtesy Wentzville School District The Wentzville School District in partnership with Mercy Clinic opened an on-site medical clinic at Pearce Hall (rear entrance) at 390 West Koenig St. in Wentzville. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on May 2, to celebrate.

Wentzville School District students selected to attend American Legion Auxiliary Girls and Boys State Eleven Wentzville School District juniors have been selected to attend the American Legion Auxiliary Girls State of Missouri.

Those selected to attend from Holt High School are Emma McCarty, Jocelyn Nelson, and Catherine Gard. Those selected from Liberty High School are Arthi Kondapaneni, Sathvika Shanker, Charity Edney, Amanda Speciale, and Makayla Holland. The student selected from North Point High School is Madison Sessler. Those selected from Timberland High School are Abigail Jarman and Liv Nash.

Missouri Girls State delegates are se-

lected based on their leadership abilities, interest in government, service to others, and academics. The 2022 session of Missouri Girls State was scheduled to be held on the campus of Lindenwood University, June 11-18.

The American Legion Auxiliary Girls State program was founded in 1940 at William Woods College in Fulton, Missouri. The program is designed to change lives by bringing together dynamic young women for an intense week of learning focused on developing leadership skills, responsible citizenship, patriotism, and a sense of community.

This is the 80th session of Missouri Girls

State. http://www.missourigirlsstate.org.

Ten students from the Wentzville School District have been selected to attend the American Legion Boys State of Missouri.

Those selected to attend from Holt High School are Brayden Burthardt, Jaye Cunningham, Aden Hicks, and Fuller Young. Those selected from Liberty High School are Cade Goins and Nolan Walch. Those selected from Timberland High School are Eian Fowler, Aidan Grimes, Brett Hallemeier, and Harper Reinhardt.

The American Legion Boys State of Missouri is an eight-day, hands-on expe-

rience in the operation and fundamentals of government, and draws together the best and brightest high school students to help lead them down the path to individual success and leadership.

Since its inception in 1938, Missouri Boys State has provided over 40,000 high school students with the privilege of attending this practical laboratory in citizenship and leadership training. The 83rd session of Missouri Boys State is scheduled to be held on the campus of Lindenwood University, June 11-18, in St. Charles. https://moboysstate.org.

Six area students awarded college and technical school scholarships from SITE Advancement Foundation The SITE Advancement Foundation has awarded $15,000 in scholarships to six deserving St. Louis area students seeking to further their education at college or technical schools in the fall 2022 semester.

The scholarships are made possible through voluntary contributions from SITE Improvement Association member companies and from the SITE Advancement Foundation Scholarship Fund, which has awarded more than $350,000 in scholarships over

the past 22 years.

“With the cost of college and technical school education rising rapidly, a $2,500 scholarship can make a big impact on an aspiring student’s ability to pursue their educational and career goals,” said Jeremy Bennett, Executive Director of the SITE Improvement Association. “We are pleased to be able to support these six very deserving students and wish them well in their studies.”

High school graduates and college students with a parent employed by one of the 230 SITE member companies are eligible for the scholarships, which are based on each student’s academic achievements, involvement in the community and financial need.

The six college scholarship recipients include: • Faith Beckmann - Sponsored by Nor-Vel Grading & Excavating, LLC, Faith will be graduating from Francis Howell Central High School and plans to attend Westminster College in the fall to study history.

• Cheyenne Burt - Sponsored by Karrenbrock Construction, Inc., Cheyenne attends Linden-

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wood University where she is studying biological sciences. Cheyenne is a graduate of Francis Howell High School.

Sydney Hartoin - Sponsored by SCI Engineering, Inc., Sydney is finishing her first year at Austen Peay State University where she is working towards an accounting degree. Sydney graduated from Triad High School in 2021.

Hayden Miller - Sponsored by Warrenton Oil Company, Hayden is heading into his second year at State Technical College of Missouri. He is a graduate of Silex High School.

Mason Neal - Sponsored by Kuesel Excavating Co., Mason will be graduating from Timberland High School. After graduation, Mason plans to attend the University of Mississippi to study mathematics.

Adelin Scanlon - Sponsored by Pace Construction Co., LLC, Adelin is a recent graduate of Marquette High School. In the fall, Adelin will be attending the University of Missouri-Columbia to study biomedical engineering.

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • June 22, 2022

School

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Wentzville students host sixth annual film festival The Wentzville School District held its Sixth Annual Film Festival April 13 at the North Point High School Theater. The festival, supported by grants from the WSD Foundation, highlights films written and produced by students in grades K-12. Winners were chosen in nine categories from 156 submissions.

“We were so excited to be able to host the Sixth Annual WSD Film Festival in person this year,” said WSD Film Festival Committee Chair and Instructional Technology Coach Samantha Hardesty Knoll.

“The film festival continues to be an amazing opportunity for our students to showcase their creativity and share their stories.”

The winners by category include: Animation • “Guardians of the Castle” by Luke Hadden, Stone Creek Elementary • “Dedicated to all the Teachers” by Sarvika Suman, Crossroads Elementary • “Magic Mishap” by Heaven Doyle and Noelle Wise, Frontier Middle School • “Carry On” by Emma Thomas, Holt High School Sports • “All Sports Trick Shots” by Tucker Swetnam, Journey Elementary • “Meet the LHS Hockey Team” by Liz Hayes, Liberty High School Informational • “Day in the Life of a Siberian Huskies” by Kelsey Barnes, Duello Elementary • “Paradigm Episode 3: Twins” by Emily Barnett, Liberty High School Music Video • “A Very Heartwarming Tale about a Very Dramatic Dinosaur Finding a Name” by Emily Greminger and Anna Greminger, Discovery Ridge Elementary • “Maybarn” by Donovan Wright and Hunter Linnenbringer, South Middle School Instructional • “Let’s Make Pizza” by Emma DeSapio, Heritage Primary • “How to Make a Scratch Music Video with Dancing Sprites” by Ariana Kleczkowski, Crossroads Elementary • “How to Make Animal Cupcakes” by Lexixxx and Aubree Pleasant and Lexi Overton, South Middle School • “How I Design my Original Characters” by Kat Schnardthorst, Liberty High School • PSA/Commercial • “Sound Button Commercial” by Abby Jones, Prairie View Elementary • “The Harm of Vaping” by Sunee Stevens and Elayna Singer, South Middle School • “Party’s Over” by Megan Smith, Holt High School

The Wentzville School District held its Sixth Annual Film Festival April 13 at the North Point High School Theater.

• • • •

“Soccer Sisters: Dempsey Girls on the Rise” by Alice Dempsey and Aubrie Dempsey, Lakeview Elementary “The Mystery Block” by Taryn McCarthy, William Head, and Mitchell Lerner, South Middle School “Crimson” by Sruthi Ramsh, Liberty High School “Thread” by Anduin Eastman, Timberland High School

News Package • “A First-Hand Account of a First Year Teacher”

by Piper Sutton, Crossroads Elementary • “Connected Over the Wire” by Shravanya Shrinivas, Wentzville Middle School • “Over the Bridge” by Sruthi Ramesh, Liberty High School Committee’s Choice • “The Miscreant” by Nolan Tucker, Andrew Stapf, and Britton Purewal, Timberland High School The logo was designed by Lillian Kraft (Liberty), and the poster was designed by Ariana Chritonenko (Timberland) and Isabelle Willyard (Holt). Avery Kuehl (North Point) and Charlie Stanfill (North Point) were selected as emcees. Films can be viewed on the Wentzville School District Film Festival website.

Please

Please RECYCLE

this paper RECYCLE after enjoying!

Story • “Frank’s Friend” by Harrison Manning, Crossroads Elementary

this paper after enjoying!

Photo courtesy Wentzville School District

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What’s Happening

June 22, 2022 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

Take Notice . . .

The events listed in this section are the latest updates as of press time, please check with individual sites for the most up to date cancellations and reschedule info.

EVENTS July 11: Bariatric Surgery Information Session

Virtually join a Washington University bariatric physician 5:30-6:30 p.m. to learn more about several surgical treatment options for weight loss at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital. To learn more call 314-542-9378 or visit BarnesJewishWestCounty.org/ Medical-Services/Bariatrics/ Bariatric-Surgery-Information-Sessions

July 11: Stroke Support Class

Whether you are a stroke survivor or taking care of a loved one, you are invited to join a monthly support group community from 1-2 p.m. Attendees have the option to join online and go to Barnes-Jew-

ish St. Peters Hospital to participate. To learn more call 636-928-9355 or visit BJCstcharlescounty.org/stroke-support-group

July 25: Bariatric Surgery Information Session

Virtually join a Washington University bariatric physician 5:30-6:30 p.m. to learn more about several surgical treatment options for weight loss at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital. To learn more call 314-542-9378 or visit BarnesJewishWestCounty.org/ Medical-Services/Bariatrics/ Bariatric-Surgery-Information-Sessions

Aug 1: Stroke Support Class

Whether you are a stroke survivor or taking care of a loved one, you are invited to join a

monthly support group community from 1-2 p.m. Attendees have the option to join online and go to Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital to participate. To learn more call 636-928-9355 or visit BJCstcharlescounty.org/stroke-support-group

Aug. 8: Bariatric Surgery Information Session

Virtually join a Washington University bariatric physician 5:30-6:30 p.m. to learn more about several surgical treatment options for weight loss at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital. To learn more call 314-542-9378 or visit BarnesJewishWestCounty.org/ Medical-Services/Bariatrics/ Bariatric-Surgery-Information-Sessions

Aug. 22: Bariatric Surgery Information Session

Virtually join a Washington University bariatric physician 5:30-6:30 p.m. to learn more about several surgical treatment options for weight loss at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital. To learn more call 314-542-9378 or visit BarnesJewishWestCounty.org/ Medical-Services/Bariatrics/ Bariatric-Surgery-Information-Sessions

Sept. 3: Car show

Trinity Lutheran Church Annual Benefit Classic Car & Truck Show takes place at 1307 Boone St. in Troy. Entry Fee: $20 per class, first 75 registered get a free dash plaque and goodie bag.

Registration: 10 a.m. to noon, participant judging: 12 - 2 p.m. and awards: 3 p.m. for first through third place. 2022 proceeds to benefit The Robertson Center and the Lincoln County Center of Aging (LCCOA).

Questions or for an entry form email trinitytroymo@gmail. com or call Bryan Gooding at 636775-0306 or Jim Lalumondiere at 636-358-4358. Vendor spots available...call Deana Von Dach at 623-734-3630 to reserve yours today. Rain date is Sept. 10.

ONGOING EVENTS Mondays: Optimist Club meetings

The Wentzville/Lake St. Louis Optimist Club meets on the second and fourth Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Wentzville IHOP, 10 Layla Lane, Wentzville, MO.. For more information contact Ed Jurotich at 314-560-1868.

Mondays: Take off Pounds Sensibly

TOPS meet every Monday at Holy Cross Lutheran Church at 8945 Veterans Memorial Hwy in O’Fallon. Meetings at 9:30 a.m. with weigh in beginning at 8:30 a.m. For more information please call Linda Wilcox at 636-447-9056.

Mondays: Parent support group

Because I Love You, (BILY), Gateway parent support group meets every Monday at 7:30 p.m. at First United Methodist Church at 801 First Capitol Dr. in St. Charles. For information and directions, please contact the helpline at 314-993-7550 or email gateway_parent_help@ yahoo.com. BILY 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: NAMI St. Louis Connection Recovery Support Group

Mondays: St. Charles County Council of the Blind meetings Business meetings are held on the first Monday of each month unless otherwise specified. Currently, during the COVID pandemic, meetings are held via conference call, starting at 6:45 pm. For more information, contact Beverly Kaskadden at 636-561-6947.

Tuesdays: Women’s AA weekly meeting

Mondays: St. Peters Rotary Club

Tuesdays: Cribbage Club

Noon at St. Peters City Hall, One St. Peters Centre Blvd. www.stpetersrotary.org.

Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays: Fitness First Exercise Class 9:30-10:30 a.m., American Legion Hall, 504 Luetkenhaus Blvd., Wentzville. 314-3696521.

Mondays and Thursdays: Bridge

If you have mental health concerns and need support, please come on Mondays at 6:30 p.m. at Friedens United Church of Christ at 1703 Old Highway 94 South in St. Charles.

St. Peters Senior Center plays bridge from 9 a.m. to noon on Monday and Thursdays, and would love to have any player, regardless of skill level, to join in. Call Mary Ann at 636-3970866 if you are interested in playing on Monday or Thursday morning.

Mondays: Anonymous

Mondays: American Legion Post 388 Meets

Alcoholics

If you want to drink, that’s your business. If you want to stop, we can help. Call Alcoholics Anonymous at 636-970-0013.

Mondays: Cottleville Weldon Spring Kiwanis Club

Cottleville Weldon Spring Kiwanis Club meets the first Monday of the month at noon at The Breakfast Club, 991 Waterbury Falls Dr., O’Fallon, MO 63368. New club looking for new members who want to better our community. Contact Christy at 314-583-0538.

Meets the fourth Monday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at American Legion Hall, 607 Westridge Dr., O’Fallon, 636219-0553.

Mondays: Mondays:

Measurement

Mondays: Seasoned eye carvers meeting

10 a.m. - 12 noon at the ST. Charles Health Deparment in the Upper Level Conference room.

Measurement Mondays is a family-friendly breastfeeding support group. We are open to all moms and momsto-be who are breastfeeding or interested in breastfeeding.

The group is supported by the St Charles County WIC program so there will be information about the program available at each meeting. Each meeting will be a little different than the last. There will be baby weigh-ins, introductions, games, interactive education, group conversation, and even snacks.

Mondays: Choral Arts Singers practice

Mondays and Wednesdays: Tai Chi for arthritis class

Meetings are held from 9 to 11 a.m. at the St. Charles Senior Citizens Center at 1455 Fairgrounds (near the Bass Pro Shop). Visitors are always welcome. For more information visit http://www.stcharlesareawoodcarvers.com/ or contact Charles Sapp at cwsapp@charter.net.

Choral Arts Singers practice on Mondays, from 7-9 p.m. at Connection ChristianChurch, 1332 Feise Road in Dardenne Prairie. New singers (high school and older) are welcome.

Auditions are not required.

See www.concertarts.org.

vent falls. For more information call 636-949-3372.

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 pre-

Candlelighters Women in Recovery meets every Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Dardenne Prairie Presbyterian Church (enter at Adam Lamb pre-School, turn left) at 7400 South Outer 364 at the corner with Bryan Road.

Meets every Tuesday, 12:30 – 3:30 p.m. at The Falls Golf Course Clubhouse. Relaxed, friendly play and is open to all.

Call 314-954-3364 for info.

Tuesdays: Optimist Club meeting

The St. Charles Optimist Club meets Tuesdays at noon at Pio’s Restaurant. For more information contact Jack Ross at 314287-0569 or jack-ross@att.net.

Tuesdays: Cribbage

Looking for an evening out?

Come and play cribbage Tuesdays at 6 p.m. at Rookies at 15358 Veterans Memorial Pkwy in Wentzville. Win prizes and awards with semiannual tournaments. ACC sanctioned. For more information contact Dee at 636-233-8032.

Tuesdays: Diabetes support group

A diabetes support group meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month except November and December from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. at 400 Medical Plaza, Suite 102 in Lake St. Louis.

A new speaker each month.

Questions? Call Amanda Meyer at 636-625-5447.

Tuesdays: Kiwanis Club of St. Charles

12:05 p.m. at Ginghams Homestyle Restaurant, 1566 Country Clcub Plaza Drive, 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 636-206-2483. You can also visit http://stcharleskiwanis.com.

Tuesdays: Quilting Guild at the O’Fallon Family YMCA 1-4 p.m. Free. Quilt for local charities. No sewing experience required.

Tuesdays: Meeting

Toastmasters

7 p.m. at the Midwest Bank Centre Board Room at 2299

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • June 22, 2022 Technology Blvd., O’Fallon, MO 63368. Info: 636-3792505.

Tuesdays: Mended Hearts

This heart patient support group provides hospital visitation support for people with any type of heart issues. The group meets at 6:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of each month at the Spencer Road St. Charles Library, at the corner of Boone Hills Dr. and Spencer Rd. For additional information please call 636-639-0875.

Tuesdays: St. Louis Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association Male Caregiver Experience

The group meets on third Tuesday of every month from 10-11:30 a.m. at the Alzheimer’s Chapter Office at 9370 Olive Blvd. 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. Registration is requested before the first meeting.

Tuesdays: Social club for widows and widowers

On the first and third Tuesday of each month a social club for widows and widowers meets from 1:00 - 3:30 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.

Tuesdays: NAMI St. Louis Connection Recovery Support Group

If you have mental health concerns and need support, please come on the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at Grace United Church of Christ at 8326 Mexico Rd. in St. Peters.

Tuesdays: NAMI St. Louis Family Support Group

If you have a family member or friend who is having mental health concerns there is a support group for you. It meets on the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at Grace United Church of Christ at 8326 Mexico Rd. in St. Peters.

Tuesdays: Dardenne Presbyterian Church Basketball

8-9:30 p.m., in the Christian Life Center, 7400 South Outer 364 in Dardenne Prairie. Open to high school and adult men.

Tuesdays: 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 second Tuesdays of the month from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Warrenton Masonic Lodge. For more info call 636279-5522 or 636-456-0776 or visit our Facebook page.

Tuesdays: 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.

Tuesdays: O’Fallon Garden Club

Meets at 6:30 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday of the month at Sunrise Methodist Church, 7116 Twin Chimney Blvd.

Info: Barb at 636.978.5930.

Club does not meet in May or November.

Tuesdays: St. Charles American Legion Post 312 spaghetti dinner.

5pm, St. Charles American Legion Post 312, 2500 Raymond Drive in St. Charles on the last Tuesday of the month. $6 per person. For more information call Post 312 at 636-947-7666.

Tuesdays and Thursdays: Tai Chi at the St. Charles County Family YMCA 10:15-11:15 a.m. No experience necessary. 636-928-1928.

Tuesdays and Thursdays: Get Fit Exercise Classes

9-10 a.m. at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church Hall, New Melle. 314-369-6521.

Third Tuesday: Luncheon for seniors

On the third Tuesday of every month there is a luncheon for seniors from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Transfiguration Episcopal Church at 1860 Lake St. Louis Blvd. For more information call 636-561-8951.

Wednesdays: TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) Club

TOPS 502 Wright City meets every Wednesday morning at First Baptist Church at 104 Hedeman Ave. in Wright City.

Weigh-in 7 - 8:30 a.m. Meeting starts at 9 a.m. For more information call 314-504-5202

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: St. Charles Area Wood Carvers

Meetings are held from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. at the Hollenbeck Middle School at 4555 Central School Road in St. Charles.

Visitors are always welcome.

For more information visit http://www.stcharlesareawoodcarvers.com/ or contact Charles Sapp at cwsapp@charter.net.

Wednesdays: Quilt guild

Every Fourth Wednesday from January to October, the Loose Threads Quilt Guild meets at 6:45 p.m. at the Cultural Arts Centre at the St. Peters City Hall on Mexico Road in St. Peters.

Wednesdays: Marine Corps League meeting

On the first Wednesday of each month the St. Charles County Marine Corps League meets at Pezold Banquet Center, 5701 Hwy N, in Cottleville at 7:00 p.m. All Marines and FMF Corpsmen are welcome. For more information visit www. stcharlesmarine.org.

Wednesdays: fishing club

Women’s

Gateway Bass ‘n Gals all women’s bass club has monthly meetings the first Wednesday of every month at JJ’s Restaurant at 1215 S. Duchesne Dr. in St. Charles at 7 p.m. Women of any fishing level please come and check out our women-only fishing club.

Wednesdays: Monthly 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 and fourth Wednesday 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.

Wednesdays: Crossroads Cribbage Club Meets at 1380 Boone St., at 12 p.m. in Troy. 636-528-8379.

Wednesdays: Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS)

Take Off Pounds Sensibly meets every Wednesday at 9:30 a.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.

Wednesdays: Men’s Golf League

Wednesdays, April - October.

5 p.m., tee off at 5:30 p.m. at Heritage of Hawk Ridge. For more information, contact the Lake St. Louis Community Association at 636-625-8276.

Wednesdays: Charity Bingo

6:45pm, Doors open at 5 p.m.

VFW Post 5077 sponsors, at VFW Hall, 8500 Veterans Mem. Pkwy., O’Fallon.

636-272-1945 or www.vfwpost5077.org.

Wednesdays: Yoga at The St. Charles County Family YMCA 6-6:55pm Any level. Info: 636928-1928.

Wednesdays: Healing

Hope &

5-6pm, Dardenne Presbyterian Rock Church, 7400 South

What’s Happening

9

Outer 364 in Dardenne Prairie on the first Wednesday of the month. Unique service of music, worship, and prayer for those in need of hope and healing.

goal weight. There is no cost for the first meeting. All are welcome. Weigh-ins begin at 9 a.m. Contact Judy Bauer at 636-541-2263 for further information.

Wednesdays: St. Charles Area Wood Carvers

Thursdays: St. Charles Rotary Club Meeting

7 p.m. – 9 p.m. Meetings are held at the Hollenbeck Middle School at 4555 Central School Road, St. Charles, Missouri on the first and third Wednesday of the month. Visitors are always welcome! For more information check the club web site: www.stcharlesareawoodcarvers.com/ or contact Charles Sapp.

Wednesdays: Take Pounds Sensibly

Off

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

SUDOKU answers from page F-1

St. Charles Rotary Club meets at noon at The Moose Lodge at 2705 Veterans Memorial Pkwy.

In St Charles. Members and guests are welcome for lunch, leadership development and to gain a better insight into our community. www.stcharlesrotary.org.

Thursdays: American Legion meeting

On the first Thursday of each month, American Legion Post 323 meets at 7:30 p.m. at the American Legion Hall at 504 Luetkenhaus Blvd. in Wentzville. For more information call 636-327-6060.

CROSSWORD answers from page F-4

10

Sports

June 22, 2022 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

Sports you see with Gary B . . .

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Local hockey player heads to the Stanley cup The hometown hero Pat Maroon “Big Rig’ is headed to his fourth straight Stanley Cup Final as the Tampa Bay Lightning eliminated the Rangers in six games. In 2019, he was part of the St. Louis Blues and their first time Stanley Cup victorious season. Since then, he has collected two more Stanley Cup rings with the Lightning.

I use to cover Maroon as a sports writer with the Community News when he played at the Hardy’s Ice rink in Chesterfield.

After growing up in south St. Louis and attending Rogers Elementary, Oakville Middle School and Oakville High School, several professionals saw some potential.

In 2005-2006, former St. Louis Blues Kelly Chase and Al MacInnis who had recently purchased a North American Hockey League (NAHL) team, the Texarkana Bandits, had him join their roster.

The next year, he moved up and played with the St. Louis Bandits who played in Chesterfield in 2006 and 2007 of the NAHL and scored a whopping 95 points and also collected 152 minutes of penalties.

At the age of 20 he moved onto Ontario to play for a season and then was drafted by the Philadelphia Flyers.

Maroon is married to Francesca Vangel, another St. Louis native whose family runs a restaurant called Charlie Gitto’s. During the COVID-19 pandemic in Missouri, they distributed food from the restaurant to the Clayton Missouri Police Department and the City of Clayton Fire Department. Maroon has a son from a previous relationship. *Go for that fourth ring

hitting on the team batting a scorching .486 with three homeruns and nine runs batted in playing in 13 games.

On the hill, Nick Schmidt a senior, has notched two wins pitching eight innings only allowing four hits and has 13 strike outs.

Check out www.OfallonHoots.com to get all the details *Starting to gel

Hoots on the doorstep of first place The O’Fallon Hoots is a baseball team that plays in the Prospect League in the Prairie Land Division playing their home games in O’Fallon at CarShield Field.

With a five-game winning streak the club is two games behind the Alton River Dragons with about six weeks left in the season.

Freshman outfielder Patrick Clohisy is leading in

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, and is currently hosting a Health show on 97.1 FM, ‘Prime Time Health’ www.PrimeTimeSTL.com It broadcasts Saturday nights at 8 and Sunday mornings at 9.

Lindenwood athlete achieves grades and sports excellence Lindenwood University’s softball student-athlete Amanda Weyh was named the 2022 CoSIDA Academic All-America Team Member of the Year, the organization announced on Tuesday.

The accolade is the highest academic achievement the organization awards on a yearly basis, which is handed out in all three NCAA divisions and NAIA for each sport.

Weyh is a junior majoring in elementary education and maintains a perfect 4.00 GPA. On the diamond she is a dominant pitcher who led Lindenwood to a 35-13 record and a berth in the Midwest Regional.

She hit .293 with two home runs, 23 RBI, and eight stolen bases. *Grades out weighs sports achievement any day

www.mycnews.com • Community News • June 22 , 2022

Recipe: A savory, crowd-pleasing breakfast

Feature

F-1

– 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.

W

hen you need a breakfast to feed a large group, this Biscuit-Sausage Mushroom Casserole is a perfect option. The savory aromas of sausage and bacon are almost sure to have your guests standing in line with a plate and fork in hand.

Biscuit-Sausage Mushroom Casserole Ingredients:

1 package (8 ounces) mushrooms, sliced

1 package (16 ounces) pork sausage

12 eggs

1 package (12 ounces) bacon, chopped

1 can (5 ounces) evaporated milk

8 tablespoons butter, divided

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup flour

nonstick cooking spray

4 cups milk

1 can (12 ounces) flaky biscuits

Directions:

sausage, bacon and mushrooms; mix well.

Set aside.

In pan over medium-high heat, cook pork sausage until thoroughly cooked, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and drain sausage. Set aside.

In large bowl, combine eggs, evaporated milk and salt. Using whisk, beat until blended.

Chop bacon into small pieces. In separate pan over medium-high heat, cook bacon until thoroughly cooked. Remove from heat and drain bacon. Set aside.

In saucepan over medium heat, melt remaining butter. Add egg mixture; cook until firm but moist, stirring occasionally.

In saucepan over medium heat, melt 6 tablespoons butter. Add flour; whisk until smooth. Cook on low heat 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually stir in milk.

Spray 13-by-9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

Separate biscuit dough and cut into quarters. Top sauce with biscuit quarters, points facing up.

Spoon half the egg mixture into bottom of baking dish. Top with half the gravy

Bake 20-25 minutes, or until mixture is heated and biscuits are golden brown.

Cook until bubbly and thickened. Add

Heat oven to 350 F.

mixture. Repeat layers.

For more breakfast recipes, visit Culinary.net

SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 9

‘Lightyear’ explores the origins of the popular space ranger

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Movie:

By Steve Bryan

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.

hen watching animated films and cartoons, viewers often were unaware of the character’s backstories.

The “Tom and Jerry” cartoon series, for instance, featured a cat and mouse at odds with each other, but it wasn’t clear how they met and why they were always fighting. In contrast, “Lightyear,” a Pixar film about everybody’s favorite space ranger, arrives in theaters and tells the backstory of Buzz Lightyear, the inspiration for the children’s toy.

The origin of “Lightyear” is tied into the powerhouse “Toy Story” franchise. In 1995, the film about the secret life of toys became a monster hit during the Thanksgiving/Christmas holidays. Until that time, Disney Studios relied on traditional, hand-drawn animation for films such as “The Little Mermaid,” “Aladdin,” “Beauty and the Beast” and the impressive “Lion King.” “Toy Story” was such a game changer that Woody (Tom Hanks), Buzz (Tim Allen) and the rest of the toys appeared in three more feature films.

According to Disney, “Lightyear” was considered a spin-off from the “Toy Story” universe and showed why Andy was so enamored of Buzz after seeing a film all about his hero. Chris Evans, who played Captain America in multiple Marvel Cinematic Universe films, came on board to play Buzz, a test pilot who ultimately became a hero. Andy really wanted a Buzz Lightyear action figure for his birthday, which made Woody rather jealous.

In the trailers, Buzz came across as a straight-shooter and a great guy, but the film took some hits in the press. Patricia Heaton, known for her work on “Everybody Loves Raymond” and

‘Lightyear’ photo courtesy Disney Pixar

“The Middle” said the character had been “castrated” by not casting Tim Allen, the original voice of Buzz. In truth, Evans had the right background and voice to play the hero while Allen’s interpretation of the character was more lighthearted and fun. A controversial same-sex kiss also was removed from the film, but Disney reportedly restored it.

Origin stories have typically been intriguing and fun. In “Toy Story 2,” the animators and crew created a great backstory for Woody. While being the cowboy hero, Woody tried to save Wheezy, a squeeze toy penguin with a broken squeaker,

during a yard sale but, unfortunately, Woody landed in the hands of a devious toy collector. While being held by the collector, Woody met Jessie (Joan Cusack) and Bullseye the horse. His new friends told him they had been characters on a TV series where Woody was the star.

Despite Patricia Heaton’s complaints, the trailers for “Lightyear” were rather good. The film showed real potential and an ongoing Disney+ series seemes like a given after seeing the footage.

“Lightyear,” rated PG, currently is playing in theaters.

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Feature

COLLECTIBLES

June 22 , 2022 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

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Say this prayer 9 times a day for 9 days, then publish. Your prayers will be answered.

It has never been known to fail.

Thank you, St. Jude. K.B.

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www.mycnews.com • Community News • June 22, 2022

Feature

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Feature

June 22, 2022 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

Yeggs

John Hanna

Crossword: At the Beach

‘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.

By Cindy Moore

Moore on Life Our sweet fatty cat went to that great litterbox in the sky. Although we are very sad, we’re also confident he went straight to cat heaven. He was such a good boy. It’s got to be a lovely place up there.

We’re sure the streams run gently and are filled to the banks with warm milk – and whole milk not that nasty 1% mixed with WhiteOut and water stuff either. The food bowls never run low and are full to the brim with kibble; the expensive kind too with creamy fishy-filled centers.

We know he’s doing fine. All good animals go to heaven, cats and dogs alike. And they’ll discover they really like each other too. They’ll be extremely happy because they still get housekeepers.

Yes, all the cats up there still have personal wait staff, that hasn’t changed from Earth life. The only difference – the bad people who have been sent down to the fiery pit must first serve part of their sentence as a servant to the heavenly cat residents.

That is punishment enough.

Cat: “Servant, bring me warm cream in a saucer!”

“Gag! Too warm! (Tosses it in the servant’s face). Bring me a grilled pork chop--medium rare, pronto!”

“Ugh! This is a grilled pork chop--medium rare. I wanted a salmon and butter patty--raw!”

Servant: “But you specifically said…”

“Egads man, this is heaven! We can read minds up here. And my mind specifically said a salmon and butter patty! (Bites servant on the back of the calf.)

“Servant, now rub my belly. Not two rubs, not three rubs only four rubs.”

Servant reads cat’s mind and rubs five times.

“Gadfry man! What’s with the extra rub?!”

All good cats go to heaven “But your mind specifically said five.”

“That was five tuna treats. Read it right!”

(Scratches servant’s retinas.)

Most of those people plead to be sent down to the underworld’s inferno before their term ends.

So, for now we have a hole in our hearts and our other cat is pretty lonely. Soon we’ll be in the market for another kitty. Not a replacement, nothing can replace perfection, but two’s a good number for cats.

My mind says four. Good thing my husband can’t read minds down here.

Cindy Moore is the mother of three superlative kids, servant of two self-indulgent felines and wife to one nifty husband. Her ficticious occupation?

Archeological Humorist: someone who unearths absurdity and hilarity in strange and unusual places including public restrooms, the lint filter, and church meetings. Most recently, she excavated a find in her neighbor’s bird feeder.

The opinions expressed in this column are Cindy Moore’s alone and do not reflect the opinion of the owners or staff of Community News.

ACROSS 1. Like a certain eagle 5. *Beach-goer’s protective acronym 8. “To ____ and to hold” 12. Arabian bigwig 13. Indian lentil staple 14. Wild West grazer 15. TV prize 16. Between Illinois and Nebraska 17. Quick and light on one’s feet 18. *Wooden walkway by the beach 20. Not this 21. Unwritten examinations 22. Cherry middle 23. Relating to a rib 26. *Beach suit type 29. Kanye’s genre 30. Pool hall mishap 33. 52 cards 35. *Sunny Dutch Caribbean vacation destination 37. Be unwell 38. Eagle’s home 39. Precedes carotene?

40. Twisted or meandered 42. Chill, with ‘out’ 43. Seat by day, bed by night 45. Modifies 47. *Just out of the water

48. Parallel grooves 50. Arrival times 52. *Wave rider 56. Nitrogen, in the olden days 57. In ____ of 58. Hipbones 59. Parcel of land 60. Et alibi 61. Auctioneer’s exclamation 62. A.C.T. section 63. Tie the knot 64. *Casual beach tops DOWN 1. British Broadcasting Corporation, colloquially 2. Shells in a magazine 3. Capital of Peru 4. Fungus damage (2 words) 5. *Same as sandbar 6. Catch for a ratchet’s notch, pl.

7. Criticism 8. *Water at its highest (2 words) 9. The largest continent 10. Retired electric Chevy 11. Compass dir.

13. Hindu Festival of Lights 14. Dyed fabric 19. Type of TV show

22. Eating contest staple 23. *Decapod on a beach 24. *Propelled like a paddle board 25. Plural of sputum 26. Type of bin in a grocery store 27. Bundle of axons 28. Slipperier 31. *Building material found at the beach 32. Jack Ryan’s and Jason Bourne’s org.

34. Barrels of beer 36. *Hasselhoff’s beach TV show 38. Improvise 40. Exercise group 41. Upbraiding 44. Annoy 46. Lao Tzu follower 48. Hotel room option 49. Metallica’s “Don’t ____ On Me” 50. Poet Pound 51. To perfection (3 words) 52. A bunch 53. *End-of-day summertime soother 54. Rub the wrong way 55. Pops 56. Cash dispenser SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 9