November 22, 2017
Building a bright future
Special Section
Holiday Gift and Entertainmnet Guide P.5
Around Town Francis Howell scores 99.3% annual state report card P.3 St. Charles county receives financial reporting honor P.6 Former pediatrician continues education at SCC P.6
School
The new O’Fallon Justice Center is located at 1019 Bryan Road.
Photos by Ray Rockwell
The cities of O’Fallon and Wentzville celebrate the opening of new municipal buildings with improved services By Brett Auten
realized that a justice center like this is what we Out with the old and in need to continue to be with the new. safe and provide a quality Two cities in St. Charles police department and to County have taken that meet that police departconcept when it comes to ment’s training needs. This municipal buildings. will not only give us some The bustling growth of breathing room but also O’Fallon has led to the some room to grow.” opening of a new Justice The public is invited to Center, which will be the the grand opening and home of the O’Fallon Poribbon cutting of the Juslice Department and Mutice Center, located at 1019 nicipal Court. Bryan Road, on Saturday, The Justice Center cost Dec. 2 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. $26 million and features The Community Development Public Works office is one of several agencies housed in the new Wentzville City The event will begin with more than 96,000 square Hall. a ribbon cutting outside feet of space and includes of the building at 11 a.m. state-of-the-art training Following the ceremony, tools and simulators, an indoor firing range, an underground ga- the building will be open for guests to tour the facility and O’Fallon rage and ample space for expansion as the city of O’Fallon grows Police Officers and Municipal Court staff will be stationed throughover the next 30 years. out the building to talk about its features. The building was paid for by bonds supported by a property tax According to O’Fallon Mayor Bill Hennessy, the Justice Center is increase, which more than 60-percent of O’Fallon voters supported. a testament to how much the residents and businesses value public According to the city of O’Fallon’s Communications Director safety. Thomas Drabelle, the project has been on the radar for years. “This building is truly a testament to how much our residents and “O’Fallon has grown beyond our expectations,” Drabelle said. businesses value public safety,” said Hennessy. “As our police de“Right now our population is around 86,000, and it is projected See FUTURE page 2 to reach 125,000 over the next 30 years. About eight years ago we
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Wentzville schools honor veterans P.8 Holt High School junior elected state officer of Missouri DECA P.8
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November 22, 2017 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
The Wentzville Fire Protection District partners with the Wentzville School District to provide new winter coats for students Firefighters from the Wentzville Fire Protection District (WFPD) and employees of the Wentzville School District (WSD) distributed hundreds of coats to kids in need at an event held at Wentzville’s new Fire Station #1 on Nov. 11. WFPD firefighters partnered with Operation Warm and the Wentzville School District for the fifth consecutive year to supply more than 560 brand new coats to elementary students identified by school district counselors. “This is a tremendous program and we are extremely grateful to all of the firefighters for their fundraising efforts and those who support this endeavor for our students,” said WSD Chief Communications Officer Mary LaPak. “Wentzville firefighters work very hard to make a difference in the lives of our students and families, which helps to strengthen and unite our growing community.” The coats were purchased by the firefighters mainly with proceeds from their Trivia Night event held in September. Operation Warm and the Coats for Kids Foundation were founded in 1998 on a national level to assist local organizations with providing quality, American-made coats to kids in need. “We look forward to this program every year,” said WFPD Captain Nick Box. “We are very passionate about helping the community any way that we can and providing warm winter coats is one Photo courtesy Wentzville School District way we love to help.” Over the past five years, the WFPD has sup- Firefighters from the Wentzville Fire Protection District and employees of the Wentzville School District distributed hundreds of coats to kids plied over 2,200 coats for WSD students through Operation Warm. in need at an event held at Wentzville’s new Fire Station #1 on Nov. 11.
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Francis Howell scores 99.3 percent on annual state report card The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has released the 2017 Annual Performance Report (APR) data for school districts around the state. The Francis Howell School District received a score of 99.3 percent on the “school district report card” for the second consecutive year. The Missouri School Improvement Plan (MSIP 5) is the state’s school accountability system for reviewing and accrediting public school districts in Missouri and is used to calculate APR scores. The standard of MSIP 5 measures five areas: Academic Achievement, Subgroup Achievement, College and Career Readiness, Attendance, and Graduation Rate. MSIP 5 is used to distinguish the performance of schools and districts in valid, accurate and meaningful ways so that districts in need of improvement can receive appropriate support and interventions, and high‐performing districts like FHSD can be recognized as models of excellence. The APR also uses multiple years of data to provide an accurate evaluation of school districts and charter schools. “The 2017 APR score is not a snapshot, it represents high-quality work in multiple categories over several years,” said Chief Academic Officer Nicole Whitesell. “We are certainly proud of our students and
Photo courtesy Francis Howell School District The Francis Howell School District received a score of 99.3 percent on the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education has released the 2017 Annual Performance Report “school district report card” for the second consecutive year.
their teachers, and FHSD will always work to provide rigorous instruction to ensure that our students graduate with the skills they need to be prepared for college and careers.” The comprehensive MSIP accountability system outlines the expectations for student achievement with the ultimate goal of each student graduating ready for
success in college and careers. The APR is intended to promote continuous improvement and innovation within each school district in Missouri. The MSIP 5 Performance Standards are designed to recognize the achievement and continuous growth of all students as they prepare for success in a global economy.
FUTURE Continued from cover partment outgrew its previous home in City Hall, we knew we had to ask our residents to fund the construction of a new facility through a tax increase. We are so grateful for their overwhelming support of this project, and I cannot wait for our residents to see this great new facility. The O’Fallon Police Department has proven year after year to be one of the best departments in the country. Now, they have a home that also is among the nation’s best.” In Wentzville, it is all about consolidation and convenience. After more than 30 years at its previous location, in mid-November, the Wentzville City Hall moved into its new address at 1001 Schroeder Creek Boulevard, adjacent to the Wentzville Police Department’s Law Enforcement Center at the intersection of Wentzville Parkway and Schroeder Creek Boulevard. The new 45,000 square-foot building now houses what were five separate buildings and nine different departments.
“It’s exciting and a little strange having us all in one building,” Wentzville Communications Manager Kara Roberson said. “This new design will carry us through for the next 30 years.” Aside from space, the thrust of the new central location is to better serve the citizens, allowing those to pay utility bills, attend municipal court and board meeting, and apply for permits all in one spot. The undertaking has been about ten years in the making, and the overall project budget was $15 million, and according to Roberson, paid for without debt. “It was a well, thought out plan by both the current and previous boards,” Roberson said. The former city hall building is currently housing items for a big spring auction, and the city could make it available to lease soon after.
www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • November 22, 2017
Troy Chapter DAR donates books at November meeting
Around Town
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DAR honors local volunteer with Women in American History Award
Submitted photo The Troy Chapter N.S.D.A.R. members (from left) Sara Branton, Zenda Folta, Barbara Cheatham, Jane Spies and Betty Eppard celebrated National Family Literacy Day by collecting books for the Story Link program.
The Troy Chapter N.S.D.A.R. celebrated National Family Literacy Day by collecting books for the Story Link program, a prison ministry linking mothers, grandmothers and aunts and their children through personalized recordings. Troy Chapter member Barbara Cheatham helps with this program and says there is always a need for children’s books. The chapter participated in National DAR Day of Service by holding a successful clean-up day at Cuivre River State Park. Work continues on a Quilt of Valor, which will be given to an area veteran when completed. Several members received certificates of recognition, Barbara Cheatham for 40 years of DAR service, and Zenda Folta for 25 years of DAR service. Members were urged to attend their hometowns’ Veterans Day ceremonies. The meeting ended with the program, “Rose Rocks of Oklahoma”, given by Sara Branton.
Submitted photo On Nov. 11 the Caroline Close Stuart Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution presented the Ida Marie Kruger Gerdiman with the DAR Woman in American History Award.
On Nov. 11 the Caroline Close Stuart Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution presented the Ida Marie Kruger Gerdiman with the DAR Woman in American History Award. This award recognizes and honors an individual or group that has done remarkable volunteer work at the community level in preservation. Ida Kruger Gerdiman is a driving force in the Boone Duden Historical Society. A charter member who opened their doors in 1986, she has held the offices of secretary, historian, newsletter editor, and /or membership chair over the last 31 years. Her service entails cemetery location
and relocation for maps, clearing of vegetation, cleaning and repairing stones, providing signage of places in the city of New Melle and other county areas. Born in 1936, Ida is married to Carl Gerdiman and has two daughters. The emphasis of Women in American History is on the role of women, past and present, in American history. “Honoring women in our local communities is just one of the ways the DAR insures our heritage is continued,” said Chapter Regent, Helene Reece. “We are pleased to recognize such a deserving woman who had devoted her life to preserving the heritage of this part of our past.”
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November 22, 2017 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
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Third annual Hour of Code Week coming to St. Charles County For the third consecutive year, the Missouri Job Center of St. Charles County will be hosting a number of special activities to encourage interest and pursuit of information technology careers during Hour of Code Week, Dec. 4-8. Hour of Code is a global movement emphasizing computer science as a strong foundation for 21st century careers. “Hour of Code Week 2017 promises to be bigger and better than ever in St. Charles County,” says Scott J. Drachnik, Director of the St. Charles County Department of Workforce & Business Development. “We will be offering three specialized computer workshops this year, and instead of a traditional job fair, we have scheduled an IT Meet-Up at the OPO Startups in Historic St. Charles County. Along with food and prizes, this will be a great opportunity for IT employers, trainers, professionals and jobseekers to connect.” Following is the schedule of events for Hour of Code Week 2017: • Intro to Computer Coding Workshop – 9 to 10:30 a.m., Dec. 4 • Intro to Object Oriented Programming – 4 to 5:30 p.m., Dec. 6
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Cyber Security Workshop – 9 to 10:30 a.m., Dec. 7 • IT Meet-Up at OPO Startups in Historic St. Charles – 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Dec. 7 • Hour of Code Week Online Self-Tutorials • 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Dec. 4 • 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Dec. 5 • 1 to 4 p.m., Dec. 6 • 12 noon to 5 p.m., Dec. 7 • 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Dec. 8 Except for the IT Meet-Up, all events will be held at the Missouri Job Center of St. Charles County located at 212 Turner Boulevard in St. Peters. “From those who are just curious about software coding to companies looking for new IT employees, we believe Hour of Code Week 2017 offers something for everyone in St. Charles County,” Drachnik says. All events are free to attend; pre-registration is required. For more information or to register, contact Lori Myers at lmyers@sccmo.org or 636-255-6060, ext. 5260. For free and fun online tutorials in software coding for people of all ages and abilities, visit https://hourofcode.com/us/learn.
Enjoy the winter season with St. Charles County Parks ‘Tis the season for Christmas Candlelight Walks, children visiting with Santa, and a festive holiday train display – all in St. Charles County Parks. The parks department offers a variety of holiday and non-holiday activities for all ages and interests. The following park programs are scheduled during the month of December: • Bundle up for Friday Night Public Stargazing programs at Broemmelsiek Park near Defiance, and discover constellations and stars through complex telescopes. The Astronomical Society of Eastern Missouri (ASEM) hosts educational stargazing programs after dusk, Friday, Dec. 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29, in the park’s Astronomy Viewing Area, weather permitting. For more information about program times, visit www. asemonline.org. • Step back in time to observe Christmas traditions of the past at Christmas Candlelight Walks at The Historic Daniel Boone Home. Three sessions are held each night at 6, 7, and 8 p.m. on Dec. 1, 2, 8 and 9. The enchanting village, illuminated with thousands of lantern lit candles, comes to life as guests experience the traditions of different cultures of the early 1800s frontier. This year’s musical performances will be held inside the Old Peace Chapel. Tickets are limited for this popular four-night event and pre-registration is suggested by calling 636-798-2005. Admission is $10 in advance and $15 at the park. Children under four are free. Online registration is available at www.stccparks.org. Then click on “Activity Registration” and choose from Night 1, 2, 3 or 4. • Get active by nature when you ride park trails after hours! Join Gateway Off-Road Cyclists (GORC) and St. Louis Area Mountain Bikers (SLAMB) for three free Friday Night Mountain Bike Rides in the parks through the end of the year. Rides are scheduled at 6:30 p.m., Dec. 1, at Broemmelsiek Park near Wentzville, and at 6:30
p.m., Dec. 15 and Dec. 29, at Bangert Island in St. Charles. Riders must wear a helmet and have a 600 lumen light to experience park trails after hours. Register online at www.stccparks.org. Then click on “Activity Registration” and choose the date you want to ride, or call 636-949-7535. • It’s the most wonderful time of the year and Jolly Old St. Nick is visiting the Youth Activity Park in Dardenne Prairie. Children ages 4-11 can visit with Santa from 9:30 11:30 a.m., Dec. 2, at the Santa Party. Don’t forget to bring a Christmas wish list and a camera to capture this special time with Santa. Each child will receive a unique elf name, play games, create crafts and decorate their very own cupcake. Each will take home a candy-filled YAP water bottle and enough memories to make visions of sugarplums dance in their heads. Cost is $12 per child. Register early; space is limited. For more information or to reserve your spot, call the Youth Activity Park at 636561-4964 or register online at http://bit. ly/2A2p7td. • Preschoolers learn through the lens of nature at the Little Explorer Nature Program on Dec. 7. Bring your adventurous tots to Broemmelsiek Park near Defiance from 1011 a.m. for a short hike, fun activities, story time and snack. Your little explorer will experience a different theme each time! Cost of the program is $3 and pre-registration is suggested. To make a reservation, all 636949-7535 or visit http://bit.ly/2z9WfSh. • The popular Holiday Toy Train Display at the Heritage Museum near St. Charles is back this year and running from Dec. 9 through Jan. 31. The museum is open 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday and noon –5 p.m., Sunday. Admission is free. While you’re visiting, explore the museum’s current exhibit, “Our Sporting Heritage,” which features the Marksman Training Simulator. Call the museum at 636-255-6000 for more information.
www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • November 22, 2017
Around Town
Decorate, celebrate and save energy For many of us, the holidays involve twinkling lights, home-cooked meals and wonderful aromas of favorite foods and baked goods. It means bright decorations, a busy kitchen and a house full of family and friends. Cuivre River Electric Cooperative reminds us this increased activity can also mean a lot energy use. But a higherthan-normal electric bill in January doesn’t have to be the last gift of the season. These ideas from Cuivre River can help you decorate, celebrate and save energy during the holidays. To be the brightest house on the block, be energy-smart. Start with energy-efficient lighting, namely light-emitting diodes (LEDs). While a string of traditional mini-lights uses 36 watts of power, LEDs use only five watts and can last up to 10 times longer. LEDs are typically made of plastic and are not likely to break. Many are brighter than traditional mini-lights. However, a string of LEDs can cost two to three times more than traditional lights, and many homeowners have reported mixed results with performance. Unlike traditional bulbs, LEDs use computer chips to create light. Depending on the quality of the manufacturing process, the brightness and life may not be what’s expected. A good rule of thumb: cheaper is not always better. When looking for LEDs, view the lights plugged in at the store, or make sure you can return them if they do not meet your expectation. All holiday lights, whether LED or incandescent, should be placed on a timer. Simple timers cost less than $20. It’s usually best to leave lights on only from sunset until bedtime. Consider giving energy efficient gifts. Electronic gifts can be “energy vampires” — sucking electricity 24 hours a day, even when switched off. Cell phone and tablet chargers, game consoles and any device with a large square plug is likely an energy vampire. When possible, unplug electronics that are not being used, or plug them into a smart power strip. Look for a smart power strip that lets you control the flow of electricity to specific devices. You can cut the flow of electricity to unused devices such as DVD players, game consoles and stereo systems, while allowing TVs and satellite or cable boxes to remain in operation. To keep your home entertainment center running lean,
look for EnergyStar rated TVs and energy-efficient satellite or cable boxes. Try carb (carbon) cutting in the kitchen. If the kitchen is the “heart” of your holiday home, it can also help pump savings back into your wallet. According to the Department of Energy, cooking accounts for 4.5 percent of total energy use in U.S. homes. When combined with the energy needed for refrigeration, dishwashing and water heating, the kitchen can account for as much as 15 percent of home energy use. Saving energy in your holiday kitchen can have an impact on your energy bill. • When preparing side dishes, baked goods, soups and such, consider using small appliances like a crock pot, toaster oven, microwave or warming plate instead of your oven or stovetop. Small appliances are an energy-saving alternative, typically using about half the energy of a stove. • When using the oven, don’t peek! Opening the oven door can drop the oven temperature by 25 degrees and make your stove use more energy to return to the desired temperature. If your recipe calls for baking the dish more than an hour, it is not necessary to preheat the oven. Also, if your oven is electric you can likely turn it off for the last five to ten minutes of cooking and let the residual heat complete the job. Clean burners and reflectors increase efficiency, so don’t neglect this small but important task. • Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible so cold air doesn’t escape. However, leaving the door open for a longer period of time while you load groceries or remove items you need is more efficient than opening and closing it several times. • Entertaining a large group? Give your furnace a break. When your oven is working hard and you have a house full of guests, heat from the stove and the extra people can keep your house comfortable and let you to turn down the thermostat. Prevent post-holiday electric bill shock with energy-efficient decorating and cooking practices this year. The money you save can be used for the most dreaded January bills of all — credit cards.
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November 22, 2017 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
St. Charles County Government receives financial reporting honor The Certificate of Achievement in Financial Reporting has been awarded to St. Charles County Government by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) for its Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) for the fiscal year ending Dec. 31, 2016. The Certificate of Achieve-
ment was presented to Bob Schnur, who has served as St. Charles County Director of Finance since 2008. The award is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management.
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St. Charles County Government has received this honor every fiscal year since 1989. The CAFR has been judged by an impartial panel to meet the high standards of the program, including demonstrating a constructive “spirit of full disclosure” to clearly communicate its financial story and motivate potential users and user groups
to read the CAFR. “For 28 years, our finance department has achieved this award, and that is a tribute to Mr. Schnur, his predecessors and the finance staff throughout the years. This achievement is an honor for the finance department and for St. Charles County Government as a whole. We take pride in our
sound financial planning and controlled spending of taxpayer dollars,” said St. Charles County Executive Steve Ehlmann. The GFOA is a nonprofit professional association serving approximately 17,500 government finance professionals with offices in Chicago and Washington D.C.
Fifth grade class at Duello Elementary chosen for pre-screening of the movie ‘Wonder’ Fifth grade students in Amber Mathews’ class at Duello Elementary were treated to an advanced screening on Oct. 26 of the movie “Wonder” at Town Square Cinema in Dardenne Prairie as a reward for being a “Certified Kind Classroom.” The #ChooseKind initiative was born out of the bestselling children’s novel by R.J. Palacio that the movie is based on. Both the movie and the book tell a heartwarming story about Auggie Pullman, a boy born with facial differences who feels as though he can’t blend in because he was born to stand out. Mathews submitted her class in the contest earlier this year when they were reading the book together and began their own challenge at Duello to spread kindness. “Our class came up with our own precepts, or words to live by, inspired by characters from the book,” said Mathews. “We have learned great lessons from this book and it has led to powerful classroom conversations.” The Certified Kind Classroom
Photo courtesy Wentzville School District Fifth grade students in Amber Mathews’ class at Duello Elementary were treated to an advanced screening on Oct. 26 of the movie “Wonder” at Town Square Cinema in Dardenne Prairie as a reward for being a “Certified Kind Classroom.”
Program was a joint effort by the author, the publisher, Gap, Inc. and the filmmaker to encourage teachers and students across the country to promote kindness. The movie “Wonder” stars Julia Roberts, Jacob Tremblay and Owen Wilson and was officially released on Nov. 17. Mathew’s class was one of 392 classrooms across the nation to be selected to view an advanced screening. “Teachers have embraced Wonder’s message to ‘choose
kind’ in such a big and powerful way, by making it a rallying cry against bullying, social isolation and the petty meanness that sometimes passes for normal in our day-to-day lives,” said “Wonder” author R.J. Palacio. “It has been a joy to watch classrooms spreading kindness, and I am honored to be a part of a program that will help champion and reward that message to schools across the country.”
From Columbia MD, to continuing education at SCC By Tyler Akins
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Despine Coulis is 81 years old. She is a former pediatrician of 39 years and now works at a
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social security disabilities office. She is a mother of one and a grandmother of three girls. Coulis took her MD from Columbia many years ago, but that has not stopped her from continuing to educate herself. For the past four years, she has taken classes at St. Charles Community College. “I am [at SCC] because I do not know how many years I have left,” she says, “So I think in the time I have left let me not waste it. It is so important. You do not realize it when you are young how we waste time. So, let me fill this [mind] up with all the pleasures that are there.” One of her favorite things about taking classes is the opportunity to surround herself with young learners. “I think the thing I love about this college is that, you know, these are all kids in the class, and I am obviously old enough to be everybody’s grandmother
– because my granddaughters are in college,” Despine said. When asked about the quality of education at SCC, Despine said that she is “very impressed with the college; I am very impressed with the teachers. I do not think I have taken a bad course yet. The course I found hardest was a philosophy course – I had never had a philosophy course.” “This semester I am taking American Fiction from 1865, and the other class is Archeology with Dr. Griffin. I have taken the two American History classes, and a class of Dr. Randal’s on Middle-East Politics.” This article is presented as part of a project between the Community News and St. Charles Community College. This article was not submitted on behalf of St. Charles Community College nor does it express the views and opinions of SCC.
www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • November 22, 2017
Yeggs
Around Town
John Hanna
www.ashfordmotors.net ‘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 Submitted photo their one big day every year. Along the way they have adventures filled with fun, comic doings and pathos.
Moore On Life
By Cindy Moore
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Operation vegetation Each year we sit around the Thanksgiving table and upon every plate is a candy corn. Everyone must say what they are grateful for and then eat the candy. Then dinner begins. I have a feeling that will be where the meal begins and ends after I announce what I just learned. Fact: Candy corn is made from gelatin. Gelatin is animal collagen. Animal collagen is a yellowish, substance made by the prolonged boiling of skin, cartilage and the jelly-goo that is found in the bones and horns of animals, particularly cows. While we all know that hot dogs are mystery meats made by sweeping up the meat packing plant’s floor then stuffing the tidbits into wiener molds to form hot dogs; candy corn is made from the unused tailings “after” hot dogs have been produced! Fact: Candy corn used to be called “chicken feed”. Anything that’s scratched up with dusty, clawed feet and pecked with a beak by a farm animal should strongly be reconsidered before consuming. Fact: Eating one candy corn is the equivalent of inhaling a
five-pound bag of sugar. (I may be off a grain or two on that fact.) Fact: Candy corn causes more tooth decay than chocolatebased candy. Why? Because when it meets up with moisture (a.k.a. mouth spit) it turns into cement, which seeps into the holes and crevices in the teeth permanently. Freaky Fact: My dentist once extracted one of my throbbing molars only to pull out a fully intact candy corn. Historical Facts: During the Depression, candy corn was ground into a powder then added to water and used to spackle the cracks in doors and window frames, thus saving on heat. Whole corns were oft times wedged into car radiators to plug pesky leaks. Candy corn was dropped en masse from fighter jets in WWII to lure the hungry enemy out of their bunkers. Once ingested, they would immediately fall into a lethargic sugar coma and become easy pickins’ to scoop up and imprison. Final Fact: Left alone in a dark room, candy corn will not disintegrate. It is un-destroyable, much like cockroaches,
dandelions, and McDairyKing French fries. I have a feeling after revealing this little-known information that going around the Thanksgiving table will be met with deathly silence. Crickets! No one will want to speak for fear of having to consume the dreaded corn. Muwahahaha! My evil plan has worked. We will then rise from the table and drive over to The Gibble Gobble diner where a full Thanksgiving buffet will be prepared with no cooking or dirty dishes for me! 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.
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November 22, 2017 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
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Wentzville schools honor veterans Schools in the Wentzville School District held Veterans Day celebrations to salute the brave men and women who are currently serving or who have served in the U.S. armed forces. Boone Trail, Crossroads, Discovery Ridge, Duello, Green Tree, Heritage, Lakeview, Prairie View, Peine Ridge, Stone Creek and Wabash Elementary, as well as Wentzville Middle and Timberland High all invited veterans to their special activities scheduled in honor of the holiday. Veterans were treated to meals, student performances, and slide shows honoring past and present members of the military, along with special guest speakers. During the celebration at Stone Creek Elementary, students spontaneously chimed in during a slideshow of veterans featuring the song “Hallelujah” written by Leonard Cohen. Following the Peine Ridge celebration, veterans released balloons with messages from students as they have traditionally done for the past decade. Last year, the school heard from two separate veterans who both found the balloons with the messages over 800 miles away in North Carolina. At Timberland, veterans were visibly emotional as they entered the gymnasium to a standing ovation by over 1,600
Photo courtesy Wentzville School District Schools in the Wentzville School District held Veterans Day celebrations to salute the brave men and women who are currently serving or who have served in the U.S. armed forces.
teenage students. As the choir sang “Flags of our Fathers,” four theatre students marched in with the flag and dramatically recreated the raising of the U.S. Flag on Iwo Jima. Senior Carson Smith was one of the speakers who spoke about veterans who lead by example. “(Veterans) do not bother with the accomplishments and actions of themselves, but for the greater good of this country and all who live in it. Veteran is a word we should all speak with a certain level of courage and patriotism that makes us proud to be Americans.” At Liberty High school, a moving video produced by three students highlighting
the school’s principal, safety resource officer and custodian - who are all veterans - was shown to all staff and students at the start of school on Friday, November 10th. The video can be viewed on the WSD website: www.wentzville.k12.mo.us. In addition to the celebrations, schools held service projects that included making cards for current service members deployed overseas and collecting items for care packages and the local USO. Schools also organized fundraisers for organizations that serve veterans like the Wounded Warrior Project and Central Missouri Honor Flight.
Fort Zumwalt South High yearbook receives prestigious award Jamie Demeter and her yearbook staff at the Fort Zumwalt South High Southpaw was recognized by the Fort Zumwalt Board of Education and Balfour’s Liz Bardin for their multiple awards in the annual Premier Print Awards competition for printers worldwide. The awards attract more than 30,000 entries and recognize the best work in more than 50 print and finishing categories.
From the 30,000, only 11 yearbooks took home a certificate. The 2017 Southpaw received honors in yearbook specialty inks, binding and embossing categories and a PPA Certificate of Merit — Dust Jacket Finish (category). Demeter and her students are already hard at work on next spring’s edition.
Holt High School junior elected state officer of Missouri DECA Holt High School junior Julia Meyr has been selected as the Missouri DECA District 6 Vice President for the 2017-18 school year. State officers were elected and installed during the Missouri DECA Fall Leadership and State Officer Election Conference held Oct. 15-16 in Lake Ozark, Missouri. The annual state conference was attended by almost 700 high school marketing students and their teachers. The newly elected state officers were determined on the basis of their written test, screening and nominating committee interview, as well as the number of ballots cast by the voting delegates after showing their cam-
paign videos during the opening session. Serving as a state officer provides DECA members the opportunity to develop their leadership skills and professionalism that is essential for a successful career. Julia is interested in studying marketing or engineering after graduation and hopes to continue to be involved in DECA at the collegiate level. DECA is an international Photo courtesy Wentzville School District association of high school students studying marketing, fi- Holt High School junior Julia Meyr has been selected as the Missouri DECA District 6 Vice nance, hospitality and manPresident for the 2017-18 school year. agement. Missouri DECA is a nationally recognized association with close to 8,100 mem- in Missouri. For more inforbers. There are 12 DECA dis- mation, please visit the DECA tricts and 153 DECA chapters website at www.deca.org.
www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • November 22, 2017
Business
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Local veteran wins travel agency franchise in nationwide contest Dream Vacations, in celebration of Veterans Day, named St. Charles resident and Navy veteran Nicholas Johnson-Moyneur as one of five military veterans to win the sixth-annual nationwide contest “Operation Vetrepreneur: Become Your Own General.” JohnsonMoyneur received a free travel agency franchise valued at $12,700 and he will own the franchise with his wife Julie. Their travel agency will operate under the name Dream Vacations – Johnson-Moyneur & Associates. Johnson-Moyneur was one of 300 applicants to apply for this annual contest, which was open to former members of any of the five branches of the U.S. military (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard) who were retired, off active duty and/ or honorably discharged prior to the contest start date in May. Johnson-Moyneur participated in a rigorous three-part application process which included creating
a business plan, video essay and phone interviews. He worked closely with Damon Chaffin from the St. Louis Veterans Business Resource Center (VBRC) in preparation for the contest. “Julie’s previous travel sales experience, coupled with my military drive and our extensive travels to more than 23 countries, make us a great team to sell travel and we are excited to work together and realize our dream of becoming business owners,” said JohnsonMoyneur. “Our mission is to educate, inspire, and excite our clients when planning their dream vacations by exuding our passion for travel in everything we do.” Submitted photo Nicholas Johnson-Moyneur stands with his wife Julie. Johnson-Moyneur was one of five military veterans to win the sixth-annual nationwide contest “Operation Vetrepreneur: Become Your Own General.”
Streets of St. Charles plans next phase of construction in spring 2018
www.seniorshelpingseniors.com/stlouiscentral
This artistic rendering shows what the new mixed-use building at the Streets of St. Charles would look like.
Long known as the Mecca for chain restaurants and big box shopping, St. Charles has recently claimed its place among foodies, boutique shoppers and new-urban dwellers with the opening and continued expansion of Streets of St. Charles. The mixed-use development has quickly gained a reputation for bringing unique offerings to the St. Louis region, and has announced plans to begin construction on the next building on the property, a 60,000 square feet, three-story structure designed to accommodate more retail and office tenants. Design-related activities, being done by St. Louis architecture firm, Oculus, Inc., are well underway for the building and are scheduled to be completed later this year in preparation for starting construction in spring 2018. Located at the northeast corner of Beale and Lombard Streets across from Firebirds and P.F. Changs, the new building will complement other multi-story mixed-use buildings on the site. Approximately 20,000 square feet of prime retail space will be available on the ground floor, with two levels of office space totaling approximately 40,000 square feet above the ground floor retail. Pre-leasing is now underway, with anticipated tenant turnovers by fall 2018. Cullinan Properties is leasing the ground floor retail space and Balke Brown Transwestern is marketing the office space for the building. Today, Streets of St. Charles is home to many St. Louis area firsts, including Prasino, Tucanos Brazilian Grill, and Firebirds Wood Fired Grill, as well as locally owned retailers such as Leopard Boutique, Olivino Tasting Bar, and Sole & Blues, among others. The area’s newest Drury Plaza Hotel opened in August 2017, and St. Louis’ first Tru Hotel by Hilton is currently under construction.
Submitted image
“We’ve quickly learned through conversations with potential tenants, and the community in general, that Streets of St. Charles is the place people want to be,” said Kathleen Brill, Vice President and Director of Leasing for Cullinan Properties. “Our current tenants are expanding, experiencing extreme growth, and thriving in the community that’s been created here. St. Charles and the entire region have embraced the destination concept, and the many one-of-a-kind businesses located here. We expect that the latest addition to the property will fill up quickly, adding to the unique and vibrant atmosphere that is Streets of St. Charles, and have already had significant interest from retail, service and office users.” Streets of St. Charles, which opened in 2012, was developed with a vision to bridge the gap between the landscape of traditional offerings that existed in St. Charles County at the time and the untapped demand in the market for new and unique shopping, dining, service, living and work experiences. That vision has not only developed into a popular community attraction, it has also paid off for the tenants who are seeing their businesses grow. Bar Louie recently completed a 2,100 square foot expansion that includes a private event space, a second bar, and additional seating. Mission Taco, which just opened in June 2017, is already adding space to accommodate their growing needs. “This level of growth demonstrates that there was pent-up demand for a destination like Streets of St. Charles, which is attracting patrons from across the St. Louis area and beyond – demand that, quite frankly, surprised others,” said Brill. “We’re setting the benchmark in the region for this type of development. There was previously nothing to compare, and others are now looking to us as that standard.”
Friends, Family,and FREE Checking
HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE DEC 8am to 6pm!
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We’ll be Flipping up some FUN and tasty Pancakes too!
FREE GIFTS!
ENTER to WIN
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Simply Free Checking: No minimum balance and no monthly service charge on active accounts. Free gifts may be reported on a 1099-INT or 1099-MISC. Free gifts provided at the time of account opening. We reserve the right to substitute a gift of similar value. Minimum opening deposit is $50. Other fees such as NSF, overdraft, dormant fee on inactive accounts, etc. may apply. See fee schedule for details. Drawing: Entries must be made at a Providence Bank from 11/25/17 to 12/9/17, by 12 Noon CST. No account opening is required and will not increase your chances of winning. Employees and immediate family members of Providence Bank are not eligible to win. Entrants must be 18 years of age or older. One entry per person. Need not be present to win. Drawing will be held 12/11/17 at 8 am. The odds of winning depend on the total number of entries received. Taxes, if applicable, are the responsibility of the winners. Value of the gift may be reportable on a 1099-MISC or 1099-INT.
10
Sports
November 22, 2017 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
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Sports you see with Gary B... Timberland Junior Wolves name MVP Coach Lin Hart Jr shared his knowledge of the running back position for the Wolves this season. One offensive back included Lewie Sisay who also doubled as a linebacker when the coaches called his number. Sisay was named the 2017 Team MVP as Hart comments, “I had the pleasure of being in a picture with Lewie Sisay who is an overall great guy. I was blessed to coach the running backs this season and work with our offense. Congratulations and continue to be a leader in the classroom and on the field. A very proud moment for me as a coach.” ~~~Thanks to the coach for sharing
Guns N Hoses tonight-November 22 There is only one place to go to get tickets to this fundraiser that will be held at the Scottrade Center starting at 6:30 p.m. this evening. The boxing event that pits male and female first responders boxing three rounds and a few mixed martial arts MMA events are close to a sellout. Scottrade Center and Ticket Master are sold out of tickets. Steve Holley organizer, states you have to call 314-713-6031 to obtain tickets to this great event. For more information go to www.STLGunsNHoses.com ~~~What a way to say Thank You
“Community News hits all areas for all ages.” -Reader ’s comment, 2016
Why do you read the Community News? Pick up your copy at a newsstand today or check us out online, www.mycnews.com
Rascals name new hitting coach When spring training starts in about five months, the River City team will have a familiar face on the bench assisting the team with his experience a hitter.
– 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.
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
www.pbtc.net See solution on page 13
Josh Ludy, former Frontier League All-Star catcher, will serve as the new Rascals’ hitting coach during the 2018 season alongside manager Steve Brook and assistant coach Alex Ferguson. For the past four seasons Ludy has been the catcher for the Rascals and has proven his capabilities as a player and more importantly, as a team leader. He was in the thick of things to help guide the Rascals to two Frontier League Championships in 2014, with a batting average of .362, 16 homeruns, and 50 RBI’s, and in 2015 with 15 homeruns and 56 RBI’s. Ludy ended his final season of Frontier League eligibility with a .288 batting average, seven homeruns, and 49 RBI’s. In his college days Ludy had his playing career with Baylor University of the Big 12. His last season with the Bears was highlighted with a .362 batting average, 16 homeruns, and 71 RBI’s. In 2012, Ludy was drafted in the eighth round by the Philadelphia Phillies, where he played for three seasons, ending with a batting average of .255, 2 homeruns, and 20 RBI’s. Ludy was signed by the Oakland Athletics during the 2014. ~~~Tons of experience Lady Lions Win again on the court The Lindenwood women’s basketball team is a perfect 4-0 this young season as they had an impressive victory in Springfield, Illinois 77-64 against the Prairie Stars. Sophomore forwards Kallie Bildner had 19 points and 15 rebounds and Gabby Walker dropped in 23 points with 11 rebounds. Other hightlights: -Lindsey Medlen had eight points and 10 assists. -Senior Jerricah Butler scored eight points with seven rebounds. -Lindenwood’s bench outscored the Stars bench 31-9 --The Prairie Stars bench did not score in the second half. ~~~Great start
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 • November 22, 2017
Tips for using leftover holiday wine
W
hether it’s a semi-full bottle of crisp white or a h a l f - e mpt y bottle of leftover red, there are creative ways to make the most of unused wine after all the holiday parties come to an end. The World Wine Guys and Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits offer these ideas to help you put your leftover wine to good use this holiday season:
Make Red Wine Vinegar Impress your guests by adding homemade red wine vinegar to your next dish. Add one part raw vinegar to two parts leftover red wine then store your mixture in a dark, cool place. Monitor periodically and keep
testing until you get the desired vinegar smell, strain and refrigerate. Use as desired on salads and in homemade sauces and marinades. Create Wine Ice Cubes If you can’t use your leftover white wine right away, pour the remaining liquid into ice trays and freeze. Next time you’re enjoying a glass, add some of the cubes to your wine to keep it cold. This trick can also work with a rosé or sparkling wine like Josh Cellars California Rosé or Enza Prosecco. Using the frozen wine cubes instead of ice can prevent what you pour from becoming too watered down.
Learn & Play
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Theme: THE 1980S Wine-Based Recipes Both red and white wines can be used in a variety of different dishes from appetizers to desserts. Keep in mind that open bottles should be used within 2-3 days, so look to use your leftovers sooner rather than later. Try adding wine to a seasonal side dish like these White Wine Glazed Carrots. It can also be used as a savory addition to main courses such as this classic Red Wine Tomato Sauce. For more information on wines for the holidays, visit WineFix.com.
Red Wine Tomato Sauce Recipe courtesy of Deutsch Family and the World Wine Guys, authors of “Red Wine”
I ngredients: 1 teaspoon olive oil 1 medium onion, finely chopped 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 can whole, peeled tomatoes 1/8 cup Villa Pozzi Nero D’Avola 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper 1/2 teaspoon dried sea salt 1/2 teaspoon oregano 1/2 teaspoon thyme 1/2 teaspoon basil Directions: In medium-size pot, heat olive oil. Add onion and saute 4 minutes then add minced garlic and saute 1 minute. Add tomatoes, wine, vinegar, red pepper, sea salt, oregano, thyme and basil; reduce heat and simmer about 40 minutes.
White Wine Glazed Carrots Recipe courtesy of Deutsch Family and the World Wine Guys, authors of “Red Wine”
Ingredients: 6 medium carrots, halved lengthwise and cut into 2-inch pieces 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil 1 1/2 cups water 1 tablespoon honey 2 tablespoons pinot grigio salt, to taste pepper, to taste
Directions: In large skillet, combine carrots and olive oil; add water. Cook over medium-high heat until carrots are tender. Add honey and white wine; cook and stir 2 minutes until carrots are glazed. Add salt and pepper, to taste.
ACROSS 1. The lowest voice 6. Bottom line? 9. Composer Johann 13. Blood of the gods, Greek mythology 14. Mesozoic one 15. Joanna Gaines’ concern 16. Landowner 17. Rainbow, e.g. 18. ____ vs. pathos 19. *Intercontinental musical benefit in 1985 21. *Brat Pack director 23. Type of English course, for short 24. Not all 25. *John Mahoney to Ione Skye in “Say Anything...” 28. Former Speaker of the House 30. *”Purple Rain” performer 35. Amount of measurement 37. a.k.a. Red Planet 39. *Ed Koch, e.g. 40. *”Lifestyles of the ____ and Famous” 41. Winter driving hazard 43. Stag party guest 44. “To death” in France 46. Latticework wood strip 47. U.S.S.R plus countries of the Warsaw Pact, e.g. 48. As opposed to nurture 50. *”Star Trek II: The Wrath of ____” 52. *Rocker Adam 53. Bald eagle’s nest 55. Form of Anna 57. *”Out of ____,” movie 60. *Chernobyl disaster location 64. Diego Rivera creation, e.g. 65. Janitor’s tool 67. Free from 68. Golf bunkers 69. Knot-tying words 70. Out in the open 71. Giant kettles 72. Poetic “even” 73. Gradually deprives
DOWN 1. *His company launched Windows 2. Antioxidants-rich berry 3. Gangster’s blade 4. Julien of Stendhal’s “The Red and the Black” 5. Appoint a priest 6. Seat of intellect 7. “To ____ is human” 8. *Randy Savage, a.k.a. ____ Man 9. Short for Elizabeth 10. Dull pain 11. Avian messenger’s sounds 12. Store posting, for short 15. Get rid of bugs? 20. Agenda entries 22. Behind the plate 24. Like amateur’s paint job? 25. *Duran ____ 26. Carl Jung’s inner self 27. Monocot’s alternative 29. *It fell in Europe 31. Shakespeare’s metrical unit 32. African antelope 33. Part of gastro-intestinal system 34. Raise a barn, e.g. 36. “Through” in text message 38. Comedian Rogan 42. Give gratitude 45. “Happy ____” by Dale Evans 49. Common Market initials 51. Like a Norwegian fjord 54. Chinese silk plant 56. Innocent 57. Radiant light 58. Short for brotherhood 59. *What Blondie does in “Rapture” 60. Second word in fairytale? 61. Brainchild 62. Fate of Norse mythology 63. Newts in terrestrial stage 64. *Music videos channel 66. “____ to Joy”
See solution on page 13
12
What’s Happening
November 22, 2017 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
Send your event to editor@mycnews.com and we'll print it! EVENTS Nov. 22: Job fair
Whether you’re looking for a parttime job in a fun environment that looks great on your resume, or looking ahead for your next summer job, the St. Peters Rec-Plex is the place for you. Check out what the Rec-Plex has to offer at their job fair from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. held at the Rec-Plex. Find parttime work now, or nail down a great summer job by interviewing in person for the following open positions at the job fair: lifeguard, summer camp counselor, front desk (evening and weekend shifts), food court, beverage server, swim instructor and swim team coach. St. Peters Rec-Plex is located at 5200 Mexico Rd. For more information on employment opportunities with the city of St. Peters, visit www.stpetersmo.net or call 636-2872244.
Nov. 23: Thanksgiving service
First Church of Christ, Scientist at 1875 S. 5th Street in St. Charles will hold a Thanksgiving Day Service at 10 a.m. Expressions of gratitude will be shared as a part of the service. No collection will be taken. For more information call 636-949-2696.
Nov. 24: Holiday Night Lights Drive-Thru | 5:30-9:30P
The annual Wentzville Holiday Night Lights display at Rotary Park opens on Nov. 24 for the holiday season. Enjoy a one-mile light display that features large illuminated commercial scenes and tunnels of twinkling lights. This holiday display is a great way to experience the magic and joy of a winter wonderland close to home. Drivethru admission is only $8 for vehicles holding up to six passengers; $1 per additional person after the sixth. On Saturday evenings (only) at the Kolb Building, you can enjoy a visit with Santa and see beautifully decorated trees on display from various businesses and organizations. From Nov. 24-Dec. 10, the display is open Thursday through Sunday only; beginning Dec. 14, the drive-thru is open nightly until Dec. 30 (except Dec. 25). Hours are 5:30 – 9:30 p.m. each night.
Nov. 25-26: Nativity display
“Scenes of the Nativity,” hosted by St. Joseph Catholic Church will take place at 1355 Motherhead Road in Cottleville. There will be a display of
over 200 parishioner-owned nativities at St. Joseph School Cafeteria on Nov 25 from noon to 7 p.m. and Nov. 26 from 9a.m. to 5 p.m. Start off your Advent season by viewing nativities from eight different countries, made of crystal, pewter, wood, ceramic, lace and silver plated. This free event is open to the public and includes crafts for children and an opportunity for your family to have their photo taken as a living nativity (internet access is needed for retrieval). For more information call Judy at 314-608-6077 or Mary Jo at 636-219-9713.
Nov. 30-Dec.2: Christmas dinner theater
Wentzville Christian Church presents “A Charlie Brown Christmas” dinner theater Nov. 30 and Dec. 1 at 6 p.m., and Dec. 2 at 12 p.m. and 6 p.m. Tickets are $15. For more information and to purchase tickets go to wentzvillecc. org/charliebrown.
Dec. 1: Pet adoption day
Providence Bank is partnering with Five Acres Animal Shelter and having a pet adoption day on Dec. 1 from 3 to 5 p.m. at their branch at 460 Hawk Ridge Trail in Lake St. Louis. They will also be collecting supply donations for them now through the end of December.
Dec. 1-2: Holiday vendor and craft fair
A holiday vendor and craft fair takes place Dec. 1 from 4 - 7 p.m. and Dec. 2 from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Community Fitness Center at Warrenton Outlet Mall (Old Nike Store) at 1000 Outlet Mall, Ste. #2 in Warrenton. For more information contact Peggy Privett at 636-456-7474 or email pprivett@ warrencountymo.org.
Dec. 2: Visit with Santa
Get your kids’ wish list together and visit Santa for free at the Log Cabin in Old Town St. Peters from 1-3 p.m. Santa will also have hot chocolate, tasty treats and holiday fun for the whole family. Free horse-drawn carriage rides through Old Town St. Peters will also be available – so dress warm! And don’t forget to bring your camera to capture some great memories with St. Nick! The Log Cabin is located at 141 Gatty Drive across from Old Town Park. Please dress appropriately, this is an outdoor event. For more information visit www.stpetersmo.net.
Dec. 3: Christmas house tour
The residents of New Town at St. Charles are inviting you to visit their homes at the eighth annual New Town at St. Charles Residents’ Christmas House Tour. Mark your calendars to attend from 1 - 5 p.m. The tour will begin at the town hall at 3300 Rue Royale, where you will have an opportunity to register for a door prize as well as obtain a map directing you to the houses on tour. Tickets are $10 and may be purchased at Marsala’s Market beginning Nov. 15 or at the town hall the day of the tour Proceeds benefit St. Charles City/County charities.
ents for all the children on Christmas. Parents, bring your children ages two through eight for Breakfast with Santa at St. Peters’ Rec-Plex South. Doors open at 8:30 a.m. with the continental breakfast starting at 9 a.m. Santa will be around for crafts and a sing-along of popular Christmas songs until 10:30 a.m. Parents and grandparents, don’t forget to bring a camera to get some memorable photos with Santa. The cost for the event is $12 per child and $6 per adult. Advance registration is required and ends Dec. 4, or when the event is full. To register, call 636-939-2386 ext. 1400 or sign up in person at St. Peters Rec-Plex, 5200 Mexico Road.
Dec. 3: Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day Ceremony
Dec. 10: Christmas cantata
Everyone is welcome at this ceremony hosted by the O’Fallon Veterans Commission in memory of the victims and survivors of the bombing of the U.S. Pacific Fleet at Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941 that will take place at 1 p.m.at the O’Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall) at 100 North Main St. in O’Fallon.
Dec. 4: Arts and crafts fair
Francis Howell Marching Band Arts and Craft Fair will take place from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Booth space still available. For more information visit http://www.bit.ly/marchingVikings.
Dec. 4 Holiday Night Lights Walk-Thru
This walk-thru event allows participants to enjoy the Wentzville Holiday Night Lights display at Rotary Park at a slower, more intimate pace from 5-8 p.m. Attendees will stroll through the one-mile light display, experiencing enchanted scenes, twinkling lights and holiday-themed music. After walking the illuminated route, participants will enjoy: refreshments, photo booth fun, beautifully decorated Christmas trees on display and a photo with Santa. Decorated trees are donated by local businesses and organizations. To donate a tree from your business or organization, please call 636-639-2085. Cost is $3 in advance and $5 at the door, per person. Inclement weather date is Dec. 5.
Dec. 7: Pearl Harbor Day ceremony
On Dec. 7, 1941, more than 2,000 service men and women lost their lives during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, during World War II. Join the St. Peters Veterans Memorial Commission in commemorating our heroes, their families and friends at the annual Pearl Harbor Day Ceremony beginning at 10 a.m. at St. Peters Cultural Arts Centre at City Hall. The Pearl Harbor Day Ceremony is free to the public and refreshments will be provided. The St. Peters Cultural Arts Centre is located at One St. Peters Centre Blvd. in St. Peters. For more information visit www.stpetersmo.net.
Dec. 8: Christmas tree decorating
Make your own ornament and help decorate the St. Peters Police Department’s tree from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at St. Peters Justice Center. Everything you need to make an ornament will be supplied, plus enjoy hot cocoa and cookies, all for free. This event is recommended for ages 3-12, however, all ages are welcome. No reservations needed. St. Peters Justice Center is located at 1020 Grand Teton Dr. Visitor parking is across the street in the Mid Rivers Mall parking lot. For more information, call 636-278-2244, ext. 3550.
Dec. 9: Breakfast with Santa
Santa arrives early in St. Peters to spread some holiday cheer – and have a little breakfast with good boys and girls – before he returns with pres-
St. John UCC Christmas Cantata takes place at 3 p.m. at St. John United Church of Christ, 405 S Fifth St. in St. Charles in the church sanctuary. Join St. John’s Chancel Choir as they lead the audience in singing the great “Christmas Classics” with full orchestra. Tasting party will follow in the fellowship hall. There will be a free will donation. For more information call 636-946-0961 or visit www.stjohnucc. org.
Dec. 11-12: The Old-Fashioned Holiday Stroll
On this Celebration of Lights walkthrough, you’ll hear holiday music, and follow an illuminated drive past holiday scenes that are merry and bright on Dec. 11–12 from 6–8:30 p.m. at Fort Zumwalt Park at 1000 Jessup Drive in O’Fallon. Admission is $3 for ages three and older; free parking. At 7:25 p.m., fireworks bursting over the lake will add wonder and excitement to this magical walk-through. Along the way you can stop to visit Santa, and refreshments will be available for purchase. Sorry, no pets are allowed and there will be no carriage rides on these two special nights for pedestrians, only. Rain or shine. Park free at the First Baptist Church of O’Fallon at 8750 Veterans Memorial Parkway and the O’Fallon Christian Church at 9380 Veterans Memorial Parkway. No reservations are needed for the Holiday Stroll. But you can avoid the line at the gate by pre-purchasing admission wristbands at $3 each for ages 3 and older. Starting Nov. 13 through Dec. 8, wristbands will be sold at the Parks and Recreation Administration Office at 400 Civic Park Drive, Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Sorry, wristbands are non-refundable.
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 636-279-5522 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 Memorial Hall in Blanchette Park at 1900 Randolph Street in St. Charles. For more information contact Joyce at 636-206-5306.
Mondays: Take Off Pounds Sensibly TOPS meet every Monday at Holy Cross Lutheran Church at 8945 Veterans Memorial Highway in O’Fallon. Meetings at 9:30 a.m. with weigh in
beginning at 8:30 a.m. For more information please all Linda Wilcox at 636-447-9056.
Mondays: Parent support group
Because I love you, B.I.L.Y., Gateway parent support group meets every Monday at 7:30 p.m. at First United Methodist Church at 801 First Capitol Drive in St. Charles. For information and directions, please contact the helpline at314 993 7550 or email gateway_parent_help@yahoo.com. B.I.L.Y is a program of self-help for parents of troubled children (all ages). We are not professionals, but parents helping each other. The meetings are free to attend.
Mondays: mous
Alcoholics
Anony-
If you want to drink, that’s your business. If you want to stop, we can help. Call Alcoholics Anonymous at 636970-0013.
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 636-561-6947.
Mondays: St. Peters Rotary Club
Noon at St. Peters City Hall, One St. Peters Centre Blvd. www.stpetersrotary.org.
Mondays: Seasoned Eye Carvers Meeting
The Seasoned Eye Carvers meet every Monday from 9am to noon at the St. Charles Senior Citizens Center, 1455 Fairgrounds (near the Bass Pro Shop). Visitors are always welcome! For more information check the club web site: www.stcharlesareawoodcarvers.com/ or contact Charles Sapp.
Mondays, Wednesday and Friday: Fitness First Exercise Classes 9:30-10:30am, American Legion Hall, 504 Luetkenhaus Blvd., Wentzville. 314-369-6521.
Mondays: Chronic pain support group American Chronic Pain Association is a support group for and by people experiencing chronic pain. Group meets 2nd and 4th Mondays of every month at 3 – 5 p.m. at the Spencer Road Library in St Peters. Important: This is an anonymous group (first names only).
1st Monday: Gardeners of St. Charles County Monthly Meeting
6:30pm. Location varies. 314-3047480.
2nd Monday: Winghaven Civil War Round Table
6:30pm, Midwest BankCentre board room, 2299 Technology Dr. O’Fallon. For more informaiton call Mike at 314.276.5018.
3rd Monday of Each Month: Life After Loss support group
Support group for families who have lost a loved one to heroin/opiate addiction. 7 - 8:30 p.m. at Barnes Jewish St. Peters Hospital Campus in Room 212 of Professional Building 1. Contact: geevigna@charter.net. No registration required
www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • November 22, 2017 4th Monday: American Legion Post 388 Meets
6:30 pm at American Legion Hall, 607 Westridge Dr., O’Fallon, MO 63366 636.219.0553.
Every Tuesday: Cribbage Club
1 – 4 p.m. at The Falls Golf Course Clubhouse. Relaxed, friendly play and is open to all. Call 636-561-2970 for more information.
Tuesdays: Lions Club meeting
St. Peters Lions Club meets the first and third Tuesday of every month at 7 p.m. in Old Town St. Peters on Park Street.
Tuesdays: 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: Gateway Chorus Rehearsal
Spotlight
Gateway Spotlight is a women’s a capella chorus that meets at First United Methodist Church at 801 first Capitol Dr. in St. Charles every Tuesday evening beginning at 7 p.m. Call 636-2566823 for more details.
Tuesdays: Optimist Club meeting
The St. Charles Optimist Club meets each Tuesday at noon at Pio’s Restaurant. For more information contact Jack Ross at 314 287-0569 or jackross@att.net.
Tuesdays: Cribbage
Looking for an evening out? Come and play cribbage Tuesdays at 6 p.m. at the IHOP at 3851 Veterans Memorial Dr. in St. Peters. Win prizes and awards with semiannual tournaments. ACC sanctioned. For more information contact Dee at 636-233-8032.
Every Tuesday: Kiwanis Club of St. Charles
Noon – 1pm at Tubby’s Bar & Grill at 506 Droste Rd. in St. Charles. Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time. The group is looking for new members who want to better our community and help its youth. If you are interested in making a positive impact in St. Charles for generations to come, please come for lunch. For more information call 636-448-4277. You can also visit http://stcharleskiwanis.com.
Every Tuesday: St. Charles Optimist Club Noon-1pm at Pio’s Restaurant.
Every Tuesday: Quilting Guild at the O’Fallon Family YMCA 1-4pm Free. Quilt for local charities. No sewing experience required.
more information about Alzheimer’s disease, support, or the Male Caregiver Experience, please call the Alzheimer’s Association’s 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900 or visit www.alz.org/ stl.
Tuesdays: Social club for widows and widowers
On the first and third Tuesday of each month a social club for widows and widowers meets at 7 p.m. at St. John’s United Church of Christ at Fifth and Jackson Streets in St. Charles. On the first Tuesday there are refreshments and on the third Tuesday there is either a speaker or entertainment. The group also goes to breakfast, lunch and dinner monthly, and has a pot luck dinner each month.
Tuesdays: 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 Tuesday of each month from 9 – 10:30 a.m. for coffee, pastries and camaraderie. Come meet with fellow veterans who served our country and share your experience.
Every Tuesday: Dardenne Presbyterian Church Basketball
8-9:30pm, in the Christian Life Center, 7400 South Outer 364 in Dardenne Prairie. Open to high school and adult men.
1st Tuesday: Fleur de Lis Garden Society
6:30pm at various locations. Info: www.fleurdelisgardensociety.org; Jeanne at 314.605.8563.
2nd Tuesday: Show-me Stitchers Embroiderer’s Guild of America
7pm at the Ladue Chapel. Info: www. showmestitchers.com.
The group meets on fourth Tuesday of every month from 10-11:30 a.m. at the Spencer Road Library at the Community Commons, 427 Spencer Rd. For
Gateway Bass ‘n Gals all women’s bass club has monthly meetings the first Wednesday of every month at Rookies Bar and Grill at 3721 New Town Rd. in St. Charles at 7 p.m. Women of any fishing level please come and check out our women-only fishing club.
Wednesdays: TOPS meeting
TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) Club 661 Wentzville holds meetings every Wednesday at 9:15 p.m. at Elder Court community meeting room. For more information call 314-650-1014.
Every Wednesday: Crossroads Cribbage Club
10am Meets at 1380 Boone St., Troy, MO 63379. 636.528.8379.
5pm, St. Charles American Legion Post 312, 2500 Raymond Drive in St. Charles. $6 per person. For more information call Post 312 at 636.947.7666.
Every Tuesday & Thursday: Tai Chi at the St. Charles County Family YMCA
8-9am & 10:15-11:15am. No experience necessary. 636-928-1928.
Tuesdays & Thursdays: Get Fit Exercise Classes
9-10am and 5:30-6:30pm at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church Hall, New Melle. 314.369.6521.
Wednesdays: Food pantry
Veterans
Coffee
Veterans from all branches of the service are invited to attend “Coffee Talk” every Wednesday at. 9 a.m. at Grace Baptist Church, 3601 Ehlmann Rd. in St. Charles (Take I-70 to the Cave Springs exit). We will have applications for VA health care, applications for the honor flight, reports from local American Legion and VFW halls and lots of good comradery. Come join us for free coffee and donuts and enjoy an hour with your fellow veterans.
Thursdays: Lions Club meeting
Wentzville Outreach Lions Club meets the second Thursday of the month at Schnucks at 1960 Wentzville PWK in Wentzville at 6 p.m. Contact Jimmy Butler at 314-780-5629 or Lisa Alexander at 314-258-1069 for more information.
Thursdays: Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS)
Take Off Pounds Sensibly meets every Thursday at 6 p.m. in the United Methodist Church at 725 N. Wall St. in Wentzville. TOPS is a national non-profit weight-loss organization that supports its members in attaining their goal weight. There is no cost for the first meeting. All are welcome. For more information call Mary Stassi at 636-357-1387.
Thursdays: Optimist Club meetings
The O’Fallon Optimist Club meets on the second and fourth Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at Bank of Old Monroe T.R. Hughes Blvd. in O’Fallon. SUDOKU answers from page 11
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Thursdays: Lions Club meetings
St. Charles Lions Club meets every second and fourth Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. at 1144 S Benton Street in St. Charles. Contact Art for more info at 636-441-1831. New members are welcome.
3rd Thursdays: Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 458 Meeting 7pm, Amvets Post 106, 360 Brown Rd in St. Peters. Those who served in any branch between 1962 and 1975 are welcome.
Every Thursday: Dardenne Presbyterian Church Quilters
9am-2pm, Dardenne Presbyterian Church, 7400 South Outer 364 in Dardenne Prairie. Members do hand quilting to quilts of any size for donation that is given to various church supported charities. No experience is necessary to join the group. For more information, contact Vickie Young at 636.928.7348, or Brenda Kenny at 636.240.3753. CROSSWORD answers from page 11
Wednesdays: Kiwanis Club meeting
Cottleville/Weldon Spring Kiwanis Club meets the first Wednesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at Bemos and the third Tuesday of the month at 7 a.m. at Kisker Road Library. This is a new club looking for new members interested in working to better our community. For more information call Christy at 314583-0538.
Every Wednesday: Men’s Golf League
5pm, tee off at 5:30 pm at Heritage of Hawk Ridge. www.lakesaintlouis.com, under the parks and recreation section.
1st Wednesday: Hope & Healing
Wednesdays: Talk
Tuesdays: St. Louis Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association Male Caregiver Experience
Wednesdays: Women’s fishing club
Last Tuesday of every month, St. Charles American Legion Post 312 spaghetti dinner.
6:30pm at Sunrise Methodist Church, 7116 Twin Chimney Blvd. Info: Barb at 636.978.5930.
Every Tuesday: Gateway Spotlight ChorUS
7:15-9:45pm at First United Methodist Church, 801 First Capitol Drive in St. Charles. Info: www.gatewayspotlight. org or 636.256.6823.
On the first Wednesday of each month the St. Charles County Marine Corps League meets at the American Legion 313 old town St. Peters at 7:30 p.m. All Marines and FMF Corpsmen are welcome. For more information visit www.stcharlesmarine.org.
Every Wednesday: Charity Bingo
7pm at the Renaud Spirit Center, 2650 Tri Sports Circle, O’Fallon. Info: 636.379.2505.
Toastmasters
Corp
4th Tuesday: O’Fallon Garden Club
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.
Every Tuesday: Meeting
Wednesdays: Marine League meeting
What’s Happening
6:45pm VFW Post 5077 sponsors, at VFW Hall, 8500 Veterans Mem. Pkwy., O’Fallon. 636.272.1945 or www.vfwpost5077.org. 5-6pm, Dardenne Presbyterian Rock Church, 7400 South Outer 364 in Dardenne Prairie. Unique service of music, worship, and prayer for those in need of hope and healing.
1st and 3rd Wednesday Each: St. Charles Area Wood Carvers
7pm – 9pm. Meetings are held at the Hollenbeck Middle School at 4555 Central School Road, St. Charles, Missouri. Visitors are always welcome! For more information check the club web site: www.stcharlesareawoodcarvers. com/ or contact Charles Sapp.
2nd Wednesday: Free Financial Education- Money Matters
6:30pm at the O’Fallon Family YMCA. PNC Bank and The O’Fallon Family YMCA have partnered to provide monthly free financial education courses for members of the community. Info (including a list of topics): call PNC Bank at 636.272.2449.
Wednesdays: Take Off Pounds Sensibly
Take Off Pounds Sensibly meets every Wednesday at 10 a.m. in the parish hall of Chapel of the Cross Lutheran Church at 907 Jungermann Rd. in St. Peters. TOPS is a national non-profit weight-loss organization that supports its members in attaining their goal weight. There is no cost for the first meeting. All are welcome. Weigh-ins begin at 9 a.m. Contact Judy Bauer at 636-541-2263 for further information.
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November 22, 2017 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
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November 22, 2017 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
Hollywood is scrubbing names, cleaning house
M O V I E
In the comic book world, “retroactive continuity” (“retcon” for short) has been a useful tool for writers. Back in 1986, for instance, the folks at DC comics rebooted the “Superman” line of comics to humanize the character. At that time, the Man of Steel could travel through time and visit historic figures. By squeezing a lump of coal with enough force, he also could create a diamond. Those abilities were reduced or removed as part of the reboot, as if Superman never possessed them. Hollywood also made effective use of retcon, especially in TV shows such as “Bewitched” when one performer replaced another in a key role. On “Roseanne,” Lecy Goranson played eldest daughter Becky until she left to pursue a college degree. Actress Sarah Chalke took over the role, but Roseanne gave a sly wink to the audience indicating that she knew she wasn’t fooling anyone with the casting change. Retcon also is at work in “All the Money in the World,” an upcoming film about the kidnapping of J. Paul Getty III and how his grandfather, played by Kevin Spacey, balked at paying a ransom. Mr. Spacey is not a popular guy these days, so director Ridley Scott made the costly decision to reshoot all the actor’s scenes with Christopher Plummer. As Hollywood.com pointed out, Plummer originally auditioned for the role but lost to Spacey, so the casting has come full circle. Scott has just weeks to reshoot the scenes featuring the elder Getty and his efforts will cost an additional $10 million. Based on the trailers, this is a wise, albeit expensive, move. Michelle Williams looks to be the breakout star playing Gail Harris, the mother of young J. Paul Getty III. Leaving Spacey in a key role would
By Steve Bryan
surely alienate movie fans who are appalled at Spacey’s alleged behavior. It’s a safe bet that had his performance remained in the film, many movie lovers would have boycotted the film. Harvey Weinstein, who has been accused multiple times of harassment, is being retconned as well. Weinstein, who helped produce films like “Scream” and “The English Patient,” now has a name that is toxic in Hollywood. IndieWire reported that his name will be “scrubbed” from current TV projects and possibly upcoming movies as well. The Weinstein Company also is looking to rebrand and rename itself to distance itself from him. Kevin Spacey, Harvey Weinstein and others have had brilliant careers in Hollywood, but their behind-the-scenes antics will no longer be tolerated. Spacey gave brilliant performances in “The Usual Suspects” and “American Beauty.” Harvey Weinstein was a champion of films like “Good Will Hunting” and “Pulp Fiction” while he worked at Miramax. Thanks to the accusations surrounding both men, their names could be forever stricken from the record. “All the Money in the World” photo courtesy Sony Pictures Entertainment 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.
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