CNSTC: Feb. 15. 2012

February 15, 2012

Vol 14

July 13, 2011

No 7

Vol 13 No 28

GECC will help families with incomes of less than $50,000 in 2011

Free Tax Preparation for LowIncome Households

IN this Issue

Need help with your tax preparation?

If you live in St. Louis City, St. Louis County, St. Charles or metro-east Illinois and your household income was less than $50,000 in 2011 you may qualify for free tax help – and you might get more money back. The Gateway EITC Community Coalition began offering free tax help to those who qualify in January. For information on if you qualify, locations, dates, and documents needed see below or contact United Way at 2.1.1 or 800.427.4626.

The average EITC return for St. Louisans was almost $1,700 last year, according to GECC. The assistance focuses on individuals or families who qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit, which is a federal tax credit designed to help people increase their financial stability numerous ways.

Locations/dates/times for Saturday sites are listed below for the GECC Free Tax Preparation for those with a 2011 household income of less than $50,000.

Weekday locations are also available and can be found online at www.gecc. us or by calling 2.1.1 or 800.427.4626.

Super Saturdays – no appointment necessary at these locations St. Charles County: Deer Run Branch of St. Charles City-County Library – with UM-St. Louis, 1300 N. Main St., O’Fallon, MO 63366 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Saturdays: February 18, February 25, March 3, March 10, March 17, March 24, March 31, April 7 and April 14 GECC prepares: form 1040; schedule B, C ($10,000 limit), EIC & R; form 1040-V; form 1040-ES; form 2441; form 8863; and form 8812. Please bring the following documents with you to the preparation:

• All W-2’s and 1099s • Social Security Card(s) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number(s) - ITIN - for all family members • Valid picture ID for taxpayer and spouse (driver’s license or state ID or passport) • Copy of your 2010 tax return • 1098 or real estate tax receipt • Proof of unemployment compensation • Copy of a voided check or bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit • Proof of child care expenses • If married and filing jointly then both spouses must be present to sign paperwork • Parcel number (Illinois homeowners only) “Up to $34 million EITC refunds may go unclaimed in the St. Louis region this year,” said Russ Signorino, GECC executive director. “This figure represents a substantial loss of revenue for our community and lost income for low-wage workers.”

In 2011, EITC partners filed 13,267

Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5 Lincoln County Life . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

tax returns totaling more than $16.9 million and EITC returns of $5.5 million.

GECC estimates that 58 percent of low-to-moderate income families or

working poor in this community pay an average of $267 for tax preparation. This results in an additional combined financial drain of more than $11 million for these local families.

MOVIE PEEK

School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Movie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Shelly Schneider / Recipe . . . . . . . 10

See MOVIE page 9

“The Vow” - Photo courtesy of Screen Gems

Joe Morice / Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 What’s Happening . . . . . . . . . . . 12-13 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-15

2139 Bryan Valley Commercial Dr. • O’Fallon, MO 63366 P: 636.379.1775 F: 636.379.1632 E: ofcnews@centurytel.net

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2 • February 15, 2012 • Community News - St. Charles County

2012 Home & Garden Show in St. Peters

Wentzville Chick-fil-A First 100 Camp Out More than 150 people gathered at 6 a.m. on Wednesday, February 1 at the new Wentzville Chick-fil-A. They came prepared with tents, computers, TVs and other gear . to be part of the Wentzville Chickfil-A First 100 Camp Out. Those lucky 100 (chosen by raffle) set up their tents and camped in the parking lot at 1918 Wentzville Parkway until Thursday, February 2 when they each received 52 free Chick-fil-A meal certificates at the grand opening.

The Greater St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce announces the 2012 Annual Home & Garden Show, Saturday, March 31 at St. Peters City Hall (next to Rec-Plex). Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free and the event is open to the public. To request Vendor Booth information or registration forms, please call 636.447.3336.

The Home & Garden Show will feature DIY clinics from Home Depot, including how to faux finish your countertops to look like granite. There will also be cabinet and trim refinishing featuring a new gel product. How to Tile 101 from prep to finish using glass/ ceramic tiles for countertops, backsplashes, etc. Ask the Pros from Pavestone – the how-to on fire pits & mailboxes. Scotts has the 4-Step Program education and gardening advice. There is also a free tree seedling giveaway from the city of St. Peters (resident privilege card required) and much more. There will be give-aways and drawings galore.

For more information or to register as a vendor, contact the Greater St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce. The St. Peters office is at 1236 Jungermann Road, 636.447.3336. The St. Charles office is at Come to Fort Zumwalt Park in O’Fallon and join in counting the birds and related activities for 2201 1st Capitol Drive, 636.946.0633 in St. Charles, MO. O’Fallon’s Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC). The park is located at 1000 Jessup Drive, O’Fallon, Missouri 63366.

O’Fallon’s GBBC will be held at various times on Friday, February 17, through Monday, February 20.

The free event includes activities and exhibits for beginning as well as experienced birders, and there is no charge for parking. Reservations are needed for those wanting to participate in the Bird Identification Program. To register, just call 636-379-5502, or email mseymour@ofallon.mo.us.

In general, the Great Backyard Bird Count aims to identify and enumerate birds wintering in the U.S. and Canada. New this year, participants are encouraged to take photos and enter the photo contest at www.birdsource.org/gbbc/photo-contest-rules.

O’Fallon’s Great Backyard Bird Count Schedule: Friday, February 17, 7 a.m. Bird Count (for serious birders).

Saturday, February 18, 10 a.m. or 12:30 p.m. Bird Identification Program (reservations rewww.vincesasianbistro.com quired), 11 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. Bird Walk and Count, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. St. Louis Audubon Society exhibit, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Kids’ activities. Sunday, February 19, 8 a.m. Bird Count (for serious birders), 10 a.m.

Bird Count (for families). Monday, February 20, 9 a.m. Bird Count (for serious birders).

To learn more about participating in the international Great Backyard Bird Count, including how to identify birds and educational activities for kids, visit www.birdsource.org/gbbc.

Directions: On I-70, take Exit 217 at Highways K / M (Main Street) in O’Fallon, drive south on Highway K for one block to the stoplight at Veterans Memorial Parkway; turn right and then drive about one mile to the Fort Zumwalt Park entrance on the left.

Great Backyard Bird Count

AARP Safe Driving Course for Seniors

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Registrations are being accepted for the four-hour AARP Driver Safety Course to be held at Lake St. Charles Retirement Community, 45 Honey Locust Lane, St. Charles, MO 63303.

The class will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Tuesday, February 28.

Seniors age 50+ will refresh themselves with the rules of the road, and learn how age-related physical changes may affect their driving skills.

The cost is $12 for AAPR members; $14 for non-members. Bring your AARP card and driver’s license to class.

Payment can be made with cash or check made payable to AARP. The class size is limited to 25. Please register by calling 636.947.1100.

Lake St. Charles is located off Pralle Lane & Hwy. 94, 2 miles south of I-70.

Community News - St. Charles County • February 15, 2012 • 3

Cage-free Paws and Relax Pet Spa Promises Zero Stress

By DeAnna Massie Jessica Uzzetta has been grooming pets for 11 years, and in that time, she’s learned a lot about what works and what doesn’t. As a groomer in large chains and overbooked boutiques, Uzzetta witnessed first-hand how stressful a visit to the groomer can be for the animals, their owners and the staff.

“In most places the animals are kept in cages,” she said. “It’s very loud and stressful – not an ideal environment for the dogs or the groomers. The animals don’t like coming in, because they aren’t used to being caged, and they aren’t always allowed out to use the bathroom.”

The stress can lead to bad situations, with dogs and groomers lashing out in frustration.

Uzzetta wanted to create a place where dogs and their groomers could relax and be comfortable. She opened Paws and Relax Pet Spa in O’Fallon a year and half ago, where she provides grooming services for all breeds in a totally stress-free environment. Uzzetta said the secret to creating a relaxed atmosphere is maintaining a strict, cage-free policy. Paws and Relax is the only cage-free facility in the O’Fallon area.

“Some places claim to be cage-free but actually have a back room with cage banks where dogs are kept if they cause trouble,” Uzzetta said. “We don’t have a back room here. Our shop is completely open, so owners can see all the way to the back door. If there is an older dog or one who

Lake Saint Louis Parks & Recreation Activities To register for the programs listed below, or for more information, please call 636.561.4620 or visit www. lakesaintlouis.com and look under the parks & recreation section.

Lake Saint Louis Art Classes The Lake Saint Louis Parks & Recreation department is proud to offer four separate classes instructed by award winning artist Marie Donato - www.mariedonato.com.

Choose from Pastel Painting, Drawing, Portrait or Watercolor. The next set of lessons will begin the week of February 27. Classes will meet at the Lake Saint Louis Civic Center for two hours each week for 6 total weeks. Cost per session is $82 and supplies are purchases separately (a supply list for each class available).

L.S.L. Baseball/Softball League Sign ups will be accepted until February 17. Part of the New Horizons Sports League, this league is open to all boys & girls ages 5 – 14. League games are played April – July. The cost is $94 per child.

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doesn’t want to be around other dogs, we have rooms called suites with beds where they can relax.”

The spa also manages only a small number of dogs each day, by appointment, to ensure that dogs aren’t waiting all day to be seen.

As President of the Missouri Pet Groomers Association, Uzzetta maintains extremely high standards for quality and service. Including herself, she has three highly-trained groomers on staff.

“We are focused on continuing education and learning the latest information, so we attend seminars and workshops whenever we can,” she said.

Her staff specializes in breed-standard grooming and dogs with behavioral problems. Every dog is fluff-dried by hand, and has free range of the privacy-fenced, outdoor dog yard. The spa uses only chemical-free grooming products and also offers daycare and dog-sitting services at competitive prices.

“We wanted to make it better for everyone,” Uzzetta said. “It isn’t just about how the dogs look; we want the dogs, the groomers and their owners to feel good, too.”

Learn more about the products and services at Paws and Relax at paws-relax.com. The spa is located at 1330 Sunburst Drive, O’Fallon, MO 63366 (off I-70 and Bryan Road). For more information, please call 636.272.PAWS (7297).

4 • February 15, 2012 • Community News - St. Charles County

Need $5,000 for Home Repairs?

Could you use an extra $5,000 to help maintain and repair your home? Projects like replacing an aging heating/cooling unit, or fixing safety issues like a rickety stairway are eligible for O’Fallon’s Home Improvement Loan Program.

Why not find out if you qualify? The city has funds for five-year forgivable loans of up to $5,000 to help low-to-moderate income O’Fallon homeowners who meet income and other guidelines to correct code violations and improve their homes.

More information about O’Fallon’s Home Improvement Loan Program is available at www.ofallon. mo.us/CDBG. Or, contact Jessica Hawkins at 636.379.5411, or jhawkins@ofallon.mo.us.

Bald Eagle Winter Watch at Hideaway Harbor Park Join the St. Charles County Parks Department for the annual Bald Eagle Winter Watch from 8 a.m. – noon, Saturday, Feb. 18, at Hideaway Harbor Park, located on Sioux Drive, off Portage Road in Portage des Sioux. To celebrate the return of our national icon to the area, spectators will have a chance to view a group of bald eagles nesting along the mighty Mississippi River, as well as witness spectacular views of these majestic birds in flight as they feed off the open river waters. A fire ring and hot cocoa will be offered to combat the winter chill.

St. Charles County park staff will be available to answer questions about the eagle’s feeding habits, their migration patterns, as well as ex-

plain the rich history of Hideaway Harbor Park.

Park guests will also have the opportunity to walk to the outskirts of this 49-acre riverside park to get the best views of the majestic birds.

To get the full effect, the Parks Department will provide a spotting scope and binoculars for the program, but guests are encouraged to bring their own equipment for maximum viewing.

Each year, more than 2,000 bald eagles have been reported to have migrated to Missouri during the winter season. Eagle watching is usually best during the morning hours when the majestic birds are most active fishing and are frequently seen perching in trees along the river.

Directions: To get to Hideaway Harbor Park from St. Charles, take Highway 94 North from Highway 370 until reaching Grafton Ferry Road (approximately eight miles). Turn left on Grafton Ferry Road and turn right on Portage Road until you reach Sioux Drive. Turn left on Sioux Drive into the park.

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A HEALTHY YOU AWAITS

ST. CHARLES DISTRICT YMCA’S

$0 Joining Fee Offer expires Feb. 29

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Ambulance District Hosts Safety Summit During the past year, ambulances, police cars and fire apparatus have been struck by motorists on the highway while first responders were performing their duties. These collisions have left emergency personnel injured and have resulted in serious injuries, including fatalities to some of the motorists. These safety concerns prompted CEO Ken Koch of the St. Charles County Ambulance District to host a round table discussion with area law enforcement leaders, fire agencies and MoDOT to develop some safety solutions to an emerging problem.

Martin Limpert, a spokesman for the ambulance district, stated the purpose of the meeting was two-fold: to identify if a problem exists and make any changes in response that could provide additional safety measures to both emergency personnel and the general public; and to create a template to establish unified response criteria for all responding agencies. This could include everything from the initial dispatching of units and creating a safer work zone to getting units off the scene asap to help prevent accidents that occur as traffic backs up.

Limpert added that this group brings a wealth of experience and problem solving to the table. The group decided the next step would be to form a committee representative of each public service agency and MODOT to create a customized template for responses in St. Charles County.

New Tribal Fitness Challenge Tests Couples’ Resolve

You don’t need to be shipped off to some foreign land and scrounge for bugs to see if you can survive a contest of determination. The tribe will speak at the St. Peters Rec-Plex during the new Tribal Fitness Challenge for couples starting Febraury 19, 2012.

This eight-week course will burn calories as couples face weekly challenges, some added twists and tribal votes similar to the hit reality show Survivor. There will be only one couple standing at the end, but both castaways and survivors alike will get great workouts throughout the entire course, which meets from 4 to 5 p.m. on Sundays through April 15.

The first two weeks will start with boot camp-style workouts.

Challenges and voting begin in week 3. Challenges may include the water at the Rec-Plex, so get used to the pool before the games begin.

Tribal Fitness Challenge costs $35 per person. Any two adults can sign up together as a couple for this class. Register online at www.stpetersmo.net/rec-connect or at the Rec-Plex, 5200 Mexico Road, 636.939.2FUN www.meadowlandsestates.com (2386).

Community News - St. Charles County • February 15, 2012 • 5

Tommy Roberts St. Peters Alderman Most days, you turn the tap on in your home, and you instantly enjoy fresh, clean water. City of St. Peters water customers know that they can count on our Utilities Department to maintain the City-owned water line and other facilities that bring you clean, affordable water.

But, what happens when there’s a problem with your privately owned water line? The water line on your property brings the water into your home, and if it fails, the result can be a repair bill costing you thousands of dollars – as much as $4,000 or more. I know. This has happened to me, and it’s happened to neighbors.

In order to save other people from these huge water line repair bills, I worked with area legislators to make it possible for cities like St. Peters to put water line insurance on the ballot. We were able to get state legislators in Jefferson City to give cities the permission to have this ballot issue. And, in St. Peters, the Board of Aldermen approved putting the water line insurance program issue on the April 3 ballot.

If the ballot issue is approved, the water line insurance program will cost St. Peters residents $1 a month, for a total of $12 for the year. In return, homeowners won’t have to pay thousands of dollars if your water line breaks. (In comparison, we’ve seen a similar private insurance program that costs $5 per month or $60 per year.)

The water line insurance program would be similar to an existing program for sewer lateral pipes that St. Peters voters approved years ago. The sewer lateral is the privately owned pipe that runs from a home to the public sewer main. Since 2004, St. Peters has had a Sewer Lateral Repair Program that helps reduce the costs St. Peters residents have to pay for sewer lateral repairs. City residents pay a $28 annual fee that provides a maximum of $7,500 insurance coverage to pay for the sewer lateral repairs. Nearly 700 residences have benefitted from the program.

I look forward to voting “yes” on the water line insurance issue on April 3. It just makes sense to me that we go ahead and pay $1 per month rather than take the chance of paying $4,000 all at once.

Get Discards Ready for the City’s Large-Item Drop-Off O’Fallon residents with items too big for the curbside trash container may take advantage of the city’s free quarterly drop-off service from 7 a.m.-3 p.m. on Saturday, February 18. Acceptable items may be brought to O’Fallon’s waste transfer station at 1572 Progress West Lane (63366).

Drop-offs are limited to one load per household. Only cars, pickup trucks, and small trailers (10 feet or less) will be admitted. O’Fallon residents must display a current photo ID with their O’Fallon address and unload their own items.

Residents also can choose to have many large items picked up at the curb year-round. To schedule a pick-up, call 636.272.0477 or email ofallonrecycles@ofallon.mo.us. The cost is $20 per truck hopper for curbside collection.

To utilize this service, O’Fallon residents must be current customers of the city’s trash service with their account in good standing. Residents will be required to display a current photo ID showing their O’Fallon address.

The service is limited to one car, pickup or small trailer (10 feet or less) load per address for each scheduled drop-off day.

Residents must unload their

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Progress West HealthCare Center

WINTER COMMUNITY EVENTS If you would like more information or want to attend an event, call 636.344.CARE (2273) or visit www.progresswesthealthcare.org. www.progresswesthealthcare.org Registration is required for all events and is FREE unless otherwise noted.

Heart Healthy and Blood Pressure Screening Tuesday, February 21, 6-8 p.m.

Middendorf-Kredell Library 2750 Hwy K, O’Fallon, MO 63368

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own items.

Acceptable items for drop-off include: furniture, carpets, swing sets, bikes, toddler pools, sports and exercise equipment, lawn mowers (but not riding mowers), large hand tools, barbecue grills, computer monitors, televisions and fluorescent bulbs.

Unacceptable items include: appliances, automotive tires, parts and batteries, yard waste, railroad ties, liquid household hazardous waste: paints and stains, gas, oil, solvents, pesticides, fungicides, herbicides To dispose of unacceptable items, such as hazardous waste, you’re encouraged to contact St. Charles County Recycle Works at 636.949.7415.

Directions to O’Fallon’s waste transfer station: Take the North Service Road to Hoff Road (9/10 of a mile west of the Bryan Road junction). Turn north on Hoff Road, cross the railroad tracks and bear left (west). Continue on Hoff Road for about three blocks, and turn left on Progress West, which dead ends at the transfer station.

636.970.6316 Tel

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Monday - Friday 8:30 to 5:00

More than one in three adults have some form of cardiovascular disease. Are you one of them or could you be at risk?

Cindy Fortado-Clark, MD, Family Medicine, will discuss common causes, warning signs and plans of action to help prevent cardiovascular disease. At the end of the lesson you will have the opportunity to participate in a blood pressure screening.

Pharmacological Safety & Drug Interactions

Thank You For Voting Gibson Printing the #1 PRINTER in St. Charles County

Wednesday, February 29, 6:30-8 p.m.

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Prescription drugs are meant to have a positive impact on our health.Unfortunately, medications can also harm us if we are unaware of how they react with one another. Join Bradley McNew, PharmD, as he addresses the potential lifethreatening interactions of common medications. He will also discuss the appropriate questions to ask of your doctor and pharmacist to help you get the most out of your medication.

For the full Calendar of Events, visit www.progresswesthealthcare.org and select “Calendar of Events.”

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Become A Fan

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6 • February 15, 2012 • Community News - St. Charles County

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William Cappel Elementary Principal Phil Brock, and Assistant Principal Megan Crawmer, bravely confronted the chilly January weather last month to honor a challenge they set for their students. For every day a classroom received 100 percent attendance, the class would get a shot at sinking their administrators in a dunk tank. William Cappel reports the contest was a hit; students had plenty of softballs to throw, and Brock and Crawmer had several icy baths.

TBHS Volleyball Players Make Academic All Star Team

Troy Buchanan High School is proud to recognize student athletes who excel at both sports and academics. Seven Trojan volleyball team members were selected for the Academic All-State volleyball team. To qualify each athlete must have played in at least 75 percent of the team’s matches this past season and have a first semester cumulative GPA of at least 3.6.

Academic All stars include: Taylor Busse, Baylie Carroll, Samantha Hogan, Courtney Huff, Amber Mennemeyer, Jamie Pieper, and Riley Stephens.

R-III Meet the School Board Candidates Night The Missouri State Teachers Association (MSTA) and Troy National Education Association (NEA) will host a “Meet the Candidate Night” on March 8 in the lower level of the Central Office. The event will run from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

All four candidates for the Lincoln County R-III School Board will be present to meet voters and answer questions. Ron Mills, Dr. Mary Sue Thompson, Neil Pilulski, and Matthew Trader will be competing on the April 3 ballot for two open seats on the Lincoln County R II School Board. Voters are encouraged to attend so they can make informed decisions.

Cardinal’s World Series Trophy on Display at US Cellular On Tuesday, March 6 the Cardinal’s World Series trophy will be on display at the Troy U.S. Cellular store, at 143 Lincoln Drive. Public viewing will be open from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

The 30-pound trophy stands two-feet tall and features 30 gold-plated flags, one for each Major League Baseball team. Cardinal fans are welcome to bring their own cameras or devices to take pictures of the glass-enclosed trophy. For those that

forget their cameras, U.S. Cellular associates will have an HTC Flyer mobile tablet on hand to take pictures. The photos can be sent directly to their email accounts.

The Cardinal’s World Series Trophy Tour is running now through April 7. The trophy will make 53 stops at U.S. Cellular stores in communities throughout Missouri, Illinois and Tulsa, OK.

Cuivre River Electric Used in Sweepstakes Scam www.drtumanyan.com

Cuivre River Electric Cooperative is the target of an ongoing scam that goes by various titles including “Canadian Sweepstakes,” “Mega Million Sweepstakes” and “Publisher’s Clearinghouse.”

An unknown entity is sending correspondence and fake checks that appear to be from Cuivre River Electric to random out-of-state victims of this scam.

Foreign lottery fraud is currently one of the most prevalent consumer frauds according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Victims are told they have won a lottery or sweepstakes in a foreign drawing.

To collect the winnings, victims are told they must first pay various taxes and fees. Do not make any attempt to deposit the sweepstakes check or send any form of payment to the lottery or sweepstakes organizations.

Please direct questions about suspicious correspondence and financial documents to: Susan Dollins, 800.392.3709, ext. 211, sdollins@cuivre.com, or Mary Jane Clark, ext. 234, mjclark@cuivre.com.

Free Book Program Available to Troy Children www.troydentalcare.com

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The Dolly Parton Imagination Library continues to be a successful resource for Lincoln County families. This book program is free for all children ages birth to 5 living in the Lincoln County R-III School District thanks to the United Way of Greater St Louis, other generous partners and, of course, Dolly Parton.

After registering a child, parents can expect a new carefully selected book to arrive each month. Each child in the program can look forward to receiving a new book every month until he/she turns five and as long as his/her parent remains a resident of the R-III school district.

Contact the Early Childhood Education Center at 462.3020 to enroll in this amazing program.

Business

Community News - St. Charles County • February 15, 2012 • 7

YMCAs of St. Charles County Need Strong Community Partners The YMCAs of St. Charles County recently received a donation in the amount of $10,000 from UMB Bank to support its Strong Community Campaign. The YMCA Strong Community Campaign raises funds to support

scholarships for individuals and families who live in our community. The Y will turn no one away due to an inability to pay.

As a Community Partner, UMB Bank will receive banner recognition at all special events held at the St. Charles County YMCAs. Those events include Trivia Nights, Golf Tournament, 5K and Sprint Triathlon. The YMCA offers nine different levels of partnership – each with specific benefits. If your business is interested in partnering with the Y, please contact Mary Kronmueller at 636.379.0092.

The Y brings families closer together, encourages good health and fosters connections through fitness, sports, fun, and shared interests and promotes youth de-

velopment, healthy living and social responsibility.

The Y nurtures the potential of kids, promotes healthy living, fosters a sense of social responsibility and ensures that every individual has access to the essentials to learn, grow and thrive.

In order to continue on our Mission, we are seeking the support of our local community.

GM Wentzville Plant to Build New CNG Vans for AT&T Fresh on the heels of the announcement that is has deployed its 5,000th alternative fuel vehicle, AT&T* recently announced that it plans to take delivery of 1,200 Chevrolet Express dedicated compressed natural gas (CNG) cargo vans to be deployed to AT&T service centers nationwide. It is the largest-ever order of GM CNG vehicles.

“St. Louis is home to AT&T’s Fleet Operations and we have more than 200 alternative fuel vehicles in the state,” said AT&T Missouri President John Sondag.

AT&T, which has announced its intention to invest up to $565 million to deploy approximately 15,000 alternative fuel vehicles over a 10-year period through 2018, will use the vans to provide and maintain communications, high-speed Internet and television services for AT&T customers.

“CNG technology is important to AT&T because it helps us reduce our fleet-based carbon emissions,” said Jerome Webber, AT&T vice president of Fleet Operations. “It is also cost-effective and readily available in our country right now.”

According to the U.S Environmental Protection Agency, CNG-powered vans can produce approximately 25 percent fewer

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carbon dioxide emissions than similar gasoline and diesel-powered vans, which supports AT&T’s corporate commitment to minimize its impact on the environment.

In 2010, AT&T and other large U.S. fleet operators joined in the Department of Energy’s Clean Cities’ National Clean Fleets Partnership as part of a national challenge launched by President Obama to cut America’s petroleum imports by one-third by 2025. Through 2013, AT&T anticipates it will have purchased up to 8,000 CNG vehicles at an estimated cost of $350 million. Additionally, over the life of the commitment, AT&T expects to invest $215 million to replace approximately 7,100 fleet passenger cars with alternative-fuel models.

For more information about AT&T’s sustainability efforts and to view a copy of AT&T’s 2010 Sustainability Report, visit www.att.com/csr.

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School

8 • February 15, 2012 • Community News - St. Charles County

Fort Zumwalt News

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1. Fort Zumwalt North High School senior Vinnie Bockhoff, signed to play football at William Jewell Uni-

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headed for Truman State University, Drew Hare is obligated to Northern Illinois University, and Tanner Day will play for Quincy University.

5. Six seniors from Fort Zumwalt West High School have signed to play soccer next fall. Seated from L-R: Ashley Parisi will play for St. Charles Community College, Karley Thomas is headed to Missouri Southern State University, and Jordan Retzlaff will play for Central Methodist University in Fayette, Missouri. Standing from L-R: Paige Westbrook is bound for Drury University in Springfield, Missouri, Morgan Schulte will play for Lewis & Clark University in Godfrey, Illinois, and Kayla Gajewski is headed to Missouri Southern State University.

6. Andrew Lightner, Fort Zumwalt West High School senior, has signed with the University of Dayton in Dayton, Ohio to play soccer. Pictured with Andrew are his parents, Jon and Tracy Lightner, and sister, Victoria.

Standing is Paul Boschert (WHS Activities Director), Sean Baldwin (WHS Coach), and Neil Berry (WHS Principal).

7. Fort Zumwalt West High School senior Dan Gabler has signed to play baseball for Washburn University in Topeka, Kan.. Pictured with Dan are his parents, Matt and Linda Gabler, as well as Paul Boschert (WHS Activities Director), Eric Gough (WHS Coach), Matt Nagel (Coach), and Neil Berry (WHS Principal).

8. Andrew Madison, senior at Fort Zumwalt West High School, has signed with Maryville University to play baseball. Pictured with Andrew are his parents, Derek and Nicki Madison, along with Paul Boschert (WHS Activities Director), Eric Gough (WHS Coach), Nick Madison (brother), and Neil Berry (WHS Principal). www.highwaykdental.com 9. Fort Zumwalt West High School senior, Zach Hollstrom, has signed with Michigan State University to play soccer. Pictured with Zach are his parents, Greg and Amy Hollstrom, along with Paul Boschert (WHS Activities Director), Sean Baldwin (WHS Coach), and Neil Berry (WHS Principal).

versity in Liberty, Mo. Pictured with Vinnie from L-R is Joe Sutton (NHS Principal), Joe Bacon (Coach), Angie Bockhoff (mother), and Ted Hickey (NHS Activities Coordinator).

2. Amanda Wiechens, Fort Zumwalt North High School senior, has signed with the University of Missouri-Kansas City to play soccer.

Pictured with Amanda from L-R is Joe Sutton (NHS Principal), Eric Delabar (Coach), Robert Wiechens (father), Teresa Wiechens (mother), Jackie Layne (Coach), and Ted Hickey (NHS Activities Coordinator).

3. Fort Zumwalt North High School senior VJ Fitzpatrick has signed with Cornell University in New York to play football for the Big Red. Pictured with VJ are his parents, Vincent and Naomi Fitzpatrick, along with Joe Sutton (NHS Principal), Joe Bacon (NHS Football Coach), and Ted Hickey (NHS Activities Coordinator).

4. Four seniors from Fort Zumwalt West High School have signed to play football next fall. Pictured from L-R: Brett Uhlemeyer will play for Truman State University, TJ Fine is

Community News - St. Charles County • February 15, 2012 • 9

By Steve Bryan Rated: PG-13

“The Vow” Inspired by true events, “The Vow” is the story of a young married couple facing a truly unusual situation. Director Michael Sucsy is behind the camera for this tale of a husband and wife who struggle to honor their wedding vows under some unexpected circumstances.

Channing Tatum plays Leo, the devoted husband of Paige (Rachel McAdams). These two young people have been together for four years and now are talking about having a baby.

Unfortunately, a car accident on a snowy Chicago night puts all their plans on hold. Leo suffers only minor wounds, but Paige loses her memories of the previous four years, including the fact that they are married.

Leo wants his wife to come home from the hospital to help stimulate her memories of their life together, but her parents want Paige to move back in with Photos courtesy of Screen Gems them. Leo is willing to fight for his wife, though, and takes his marriage vows seriously. He may, however, be fighting a losing battle against her family’s money and Paige’s missing memories.

Beautifully acted and executed, “The Vow” is one of the most unconventional love stories to arrive in theaters in a long time. No strangers to seri-

ous romantic dramas, Channing Tatum and Rachel McAdams work well together as Paige and Leo, a husband and wife struggling to pick up the pieces of their shattered lives.

McAdams is especially impressive here, showing the different sides of Paige. When the character is introduced to audiences, Paige is an artist who has her own studio in Chicago. The accident reveals, however, that she had an entirely different career path before she met and married Leo. Paige now seems willing to leave her current life behind and use the memory loss as a kind of “do-over.”

Channing Tatum’s battles with Paige’s parents, played by Sam Neill and Jessica Lange, also are quite intriguing. Leo knew some details of Paige’s relationship with her parents, but after losing her memory, she’s ready to abandon her husband and return to a life that she abandoned four years earlier. No matter what happens, Leo loves his wife fiercely and is willing to do anything to get her back.

Highly satisfying, “The Vow” is a nice Valentine’s Day gift for movie lovers. It’s a film that balances the sweetness with a serious dose of reality.

“The Vow,” rated PG-13 for an accident scene, sexual content, partial nudity and some language, currently is playing in theaters.

636-397-4012

www.stlouislipo.com

www.stpetersmo.net

www.duncandoor.com

www.paws-relax.com

Sports

10 • February 15, 2012 • Community News - St. Charles County

Sports You See... With Gary B. Lindenwood Basketball Player Sets Milestone Becomes Eighth Player to Achieve the Feat On a night when KRAMER SODERBERG surpassed 1,000 career points in a Lindenwood uniform, the Lions cruised to an 85-59 win over the Culver-Stockton Wildcats in St. Charles, Mo. Soderberg was just eight points away from the career milestone, and early in the second half the senior become the eighth Lion to score 1,000 on a patented drive and scoop bucket.

Soderberg led the way with 18 points and compiled three steals.

The win improves Lindenwood to 22-2 and the Lions have now won six in a row.

(Information from Lindenwood) ~~~One for the record books Holt High School Player Picked as One of the Top 33 Backs Also a Standout in the Super Combine Held at Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio TRAY MITCHELL, a running back from Holt high school in Wentzville, was recently in the mix of the top backs in the area as picked by former St. Louis Ram running back Arlen Harris of RunItPerformance.

Mitchell confirmed that he claimed his place as one of the top performers on June 11, 2011 at the Blue-Grey National Super Football Combine.

The senior stands 5 foot 11 inches, 170 pounds. He is a rising star who has yet to field an offer but has received high interest from some colleges and universities across the nation.

Mitchell was selected for Saturday’s Blue-Grey National Super Football Combine based on his stellar performance at a Regional Blue-Grey Heartland Combine at Missouri Western University at the Kansas City Chiefs’ training camp where he ran a 4.66 in the 40-yard dash, a 4.50 in the shuttle run, at 32.7" vertical jump, 3 reps of 185 pounds and broad jumped 9 feet 3 inches.

At the Super Combine, he ran a 4.43 in the 40-yard dash, a 4.29 in the shuttle run, a 34.9” vertical jump, 4 reps of 185 pounds and broad jumped 9 feet 4 inches.

Mitchell had the second fastest 40 time only beat by 2 seconds for 1st place in that event. This event housed the top 300 regional prospects from across the country.

“It felt great to compete against athletes from all over the country,” Mitchell said. “I improved in all areas based on my scores from the Kansas City Combine at the Missouri Western University versus the Super Combine in Canton, Ohio.

A couple coaches were very interested in my speed, attitude and overall athletics throughout the combine. Every combine is important to me in that is gives me a ruler to measure where I am and what I need to work on. The visibility is an

added perk. My family is very supportive; they provide me the opportunities to attend these combines and camps. Therefore, I am always grateful to my parents, a shout goes out to Mitch –aka Pops, and Karen – aka Beautiful.”

The top performers from the Canton, Ohio Combine were invited back for a nationally-televised allstar game on January 14, 2012. Tray qualified and was invited but could not attend because he was a junior and by attending that event would jeopardize his eligibility for his senior year in high school per Missouri State High School Activities (MSHAA) rules.

Pictured is Tray Mitchell, Arlen Harris and Gary B on www.SportsRadioSTL. com radio show at Westport Pizza. Photo by Gary B. ~~~Future star Football Combine Signs Four to Contracts Indoor Football Teams Add Players In a recent football combine held at Dellwood Recreational Center in Dellwood, MO, many players strutted their talents in front of several scouts and coaches.

Coaches and scouts with ties to the NFL, CFL, UFL, AFL, indoor football leagues and international leagues combined under the directions of Coach Jeff Hunt and Jarrod Rogol putting players through many drills.

The 2012 St. Louis Missouri Regional Football Combine evaluated the skills of these players and the following will be heading to camp soon: • Kelvin Rodgers (defensive back) 6’1”/180 lbs. signed with the San Jose SaberCats (AFL) • Chris Mayabb (quarter back) 6’3”/226 lbs. signed with Alabama Hammers (PIFL) • Trent Marlow (offensive/defensive lineman) 6’4” 360 lbs. signed with Evansville Rage (CIFL) • Louie Qaoud (offensive/defensive lineman) 6’7” 348 lbs. signed with Bloomington Edge (IFL) • Aaron Grimes (defensive back) 5’10” 190 lbs. signed with the Exclusive Football League of California To watch highlights of the combine go to www.SportsRadioSTL.com and click on WATCH IT next to ‘2012 St. Louis Missouri Regional Football Combine’. ~~~Never know who is watching

“Over the Fence”

Editorial

Addiction Isn’t Funny…Is It? Being a true cynic at times, I often have to hide a grin when someone brags about a big win at the track or on a gambling boat. One of my late father’s vices was betting on the horses at Fairmont Park. He often took me along and I found it fascinating to some degree. One of the most fascinating parts was when he spoke of winning after he got home and talked to my mother. Before that, on the way home, he said he was happy if he broke even, which was probably seldom. He never spoke of how much he lost but being a $2 better, it probably wasn’t all that much.

A friend of mine was an inveterate gambler. He would bet on anything from the next football play on TV to how many bugs hit his windshield in one mile of Highway such-and-such. He once won $20,000 on a gambling boat. He was ecstatic. However, me being me, I had to ask him how much he lost. He said he wasn’t sure but he explained that if he combined his

big win with his next two paychecks, he could pay off all his credit cards.

For my own part when it comes to gambling, if I’m down five dollars, I’m already nervous. If it hits twenty dollars, I’m out of there…wherever ‘there’ is.

I’m limited to an occasional lottery ticket of which the odds are too astronomical to comprehend. Betting on when an asteroid will destroy Washington DC has better odds…and perhaps a more positive effect.

There’s a question asked by many of why anyone believes the huge, extravagant, gambling boats that aren’t boats can afford to build and maintain them if so many people keep winning their money. But then, people believe what they want to believe.

Bobby Riggs thought he could beat Billie Jean King if he gobbled enough vitamin pills.

Being a confessed cynic, I have to watch myself when I hear excuses for various addictions. Laughing might not be appreciated. I knew a man that was well known for his gambling addiction and was blocked

from the local gambling boat. His credit cards were maxed and his attempts to sneak in were halted by the guards.

He said, “I tried to tell them I work undercover for the owners to watch for cheaters.”

“Is that so,” I said while trying to hide a grin.

He said, “Now look at ya’.” You’re gonna’ laugh at me too. Nobody believes me and I lost my job because of it. The owners didn’t want anybody to know they hired me so they fired me when I told the guards.”

“Wow,” I said. “Maybe you should sue them.” I scratched my nose to hide my grin. He gave me a suspicious look and said, “Maybe I should but these are casino owners. They might have me knocked off.”

I said, “Gee. I never thought of that.”

He raved on, “But the trouble is, I need a job but new employers won’t believe me when I tell them I worked undercover in a casino. Even you don’t really believe me. I can see you laughing under your breath. You’re just like everybody else.” He looked down and shook his head and sniffled. He finally said, “I don’t know what to do.”

I said, “I have a suggestion.” He looked up hopefully and said, “What?”

I said. “Don’t tell anybody.”

He looked confused.

Then he coughed and looked around. He said, “But….er…um…I’m not sure….um…er…can I borrow twenty bucks?

“No.”

Editorial

Community News - St. Charles County • February 15, 2012 • 11

Nobody told me…

I believe we have the ethical and moral duty to share with people. (Here is where general statements tend to get me in trouble, so do me a favor and keep reading, even if the kids are bugging you or the phone is ringing.) I’m not talkin’ share as in gossip. And I don’t mean share as in walk up to a pregnant lady and share each of your five pregnancy horror stories with her (when she never even asked for advice, thank you very much).

I mean share as in a few little pieces of information that would be more than helpful as you navigate your way through life.

There’s a book, “All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten.” It’s a great read for adults on life’s more common sense lessons (things like sharing, for instance…only here I think the author means things like crayons, a cup of sugar, etc.).

Then there’s the book, “What to Expect When You’re Expecting.” It was a great book to have when I was pregnant with my first child and had no clue what to expect.

There are books out there that deal with raising teenagers, seven steps to a great marriage, etc. So, I wouldn’t be shocked that there is a book in my local library that deals with aging. I’m sure there are hundreds of books that touch on this topic.

But you know what? I don’t have time to read books right now, so here’s my thought. There needs to be some method of notifying human beings of the vital information we need, exactly when we need it. (Like a warning bell, or a giant billboard in your head.) My mother would be a great resource, except she forgets exactly what happened to her around the age of 40 (which, coincidently, is one of the things that DOES

Recipe:

happen around 40…forgetfulness).

I made a list. If you happen to be 40ish, then this is for you right now. If you’re mid-30ish, read it anyway, because you likely haven’t reached the forgetfulness stage and you might remember the list when these things start happening to you. If you’re 50ish, 60ish, 90ish…then just sit back and giggle as I take you on a trip back in time. We’ll call it (drum roll, please) “Shelly’s list of things that started to happen the day she turned 40.”

• You have to hold the bottle of Excedrin at arm’s length to be able to read it.

• You go to a discount store the very next day and buy a cheap pair of reading glasses because your arm hurts from holding it out and trying to read print that is just way too small for human eyes.

• You go to the discount store again the following day, because you forgot where you put the pair of reading glasses you purchased the day before.

• You continue to consume as many glasses of water/ juice/soda as you did the day before you turned 40.

• You wake up at 1 a.m. and again at 5 a.m. to use the bathroom. This starts the day you turn 40, too, just like the reading glasses thing.

• You cut off all liquids after 7 p.m. the next day in an effort to sleep through the night.

• You wake up at 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. to use the bathroom and decide to cut off liquids after 5 p.m. It doesn’t work and you simply resign yourself to the fact that you will never again sleep through the night.

• Your kids actually plan ahead and ask early in the week for permission to sleep over at a friend’s house.

You say “Thank you for not waiting until the last min-

ute! Now remind me on Friday or write it on the calendar because 10 minutes from now I’ll forget you even asked.”

• You walk into the kitchen on Friday to look at the calendar, but get sidetracked by a dust bunny in the dining room. Consequently, you forget to look at the calendar, and become perturbed when your child asks for a ride to his friend’s house on Friday night.

• Hairs begin to appear in places they’ve never appeared before (I pluck mine, thank you very much, and to this day cannot understand why my grandmother chose to leave that chin hair in place like it was some sort of aging trophy).

• The hair on your head decides to advertise your age to the world. (I think I went from five gray hairs to 5,000 in less than three months.)

• Your legs begin to resemble the road atlas you used on your last vacation (thank goodness you can’t see them unless you put on those reading glasses!).

So, there you have it…my brief list. I’m writing from a woman’s point of view, you understand, but I’m guessing men experience much of the same. Now… print this off (make the font size at least a 14 so you won’t have to hunt for the reading glasses), put it on your refrigerator (somehow I never forget to eat…so the refrigerator is the best place for really important papers!), and feel add to it from time to time. Your duty?

Share the list with friends and family when they’re 40ish, too. I could have saved myself a lot of worry had someone done the same for me six, no seven, no six years ago (I can’t even remember how old I am!).

Bring Mardi Gras to Your Table, Celebrate Food and Family (Family Features) Bring the fun and flavor of Carnival season to your table by creating a “Big Easy” celebration at home. Revel in the true meaning of Mardi Gras with good music, good friends and a tasty menu of festive favorites like classic dirty rice, jambalaya with a twist and traditional King Cake.

Tips to Jazz Up Your Celebration Mardi Gras is a tradition steeped in celebrating with family members gathered around a meal. Bring the party home by spending time together and enjoying flavorful dishes that are easy to prepare. Tap into the authentic way of celebrating with these festive ideas: • Lead the Potluck Parade: Create a potluck-style party and ask everyone to bring their favorite Mardi Gras dishes like Jambalaya Maque Choux, Red Beans & Rice Tortilla Casserole and Mardi Gras Dirty Rice. Make sure to have guests bring copies of their recipes so they can swap secrets with friends and find new favorites.

• Don’t Forget the Kids: Welcome young Mardi Gras revelers to the celebration by inviting them to create their own bead necklaces or use shoe boxes to craft parade floats by adding construction paper, feathers and glitter.

• Get Your Dancin’ Shoes On: New Orleans jazz isn’t just for listening – it’s also for dancing. Keep lively music playing throughout the gathering from the Zatarain’s free online Pandora station.

• Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth: Put a tiny twist on the traditional King Cake dessert by making King Cake Cupcakes. Kids can

join in on the decorating fun by adding traditional Mardi Gras colored frosting, sprinkles and candy in purple, green and gold.

For more information on how to jazz up your Mardi Gras celebrations, wherever you live, visit www.facebook.com/zatarains and follow Zatarain’s on Twitter (@MyZatarains) for authentic recipes, online tools and party tips to let the good times roll.

Jambalaya Maque Choux Makes 6 servings Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 30 minutes Ingredients: - 1 tablespoon oil - 1/2 pound andouille sausage, cut into 1/4-inch slices - 1/2 cup chopped celery - 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper - 1/2 cup chopped red onion - 2 1/2 cups water - 1 can (14 1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained - 1 package Zatarain’s Jambalaya Mix - 1 cup frozen corn Directions: 1. Heat oil in large skillet on medium-high heat.

2. Add sausage; cook and stir 2 minutes.

Add celery, bell pepper and onion; cook and stir 3 minutes or until sausage is browned and vegetables begin to softened.

3. Stir in water, tomatoes and rice mix.

Bring to boil. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer 20 minutes.

4. Stir in corn; cover and cook 5 minutes longer or until rice is tender, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat. Let stand 5 minutes. Fluff with fork before serving.

www.ofallonnutrition.com

www.elegantsalon.com

12 • February 15, 2012 • Community News - St. Charles County

CHURCH February 18: 3 Central Benefit Concert 8-10 p.m. at St. Charles Presbyterian Church (131 S. Gamble St. next to Lindenwood University in St. Charles). Doors open at 7:30 p.m. $15 at the door.

Cash preferred, but checks accepted. No credit cards, please.

The smooth jazz trio 3 Central and gospel singer Erica Reed are joining comedians Brother Dré and Davey Dave for a night of inspirational music and clean laughter. Proceeds will go to the St. Charles Homeless Alliance.

February 19: CrossHaven Church New Location Celebration 10 a.m. O’Fallon YMCA (3451 Pheasant Meadow Dr., O’Fallon 63368). Lunch, inflatables, pictures with Fredbird and full access to the YMCA after the worship service. Info: www.crosshavenchurch.com, 636.327.5217.

February 24: 180 General Assembly Meeting 9:30 a.m. at Calvary Church, 3998 Mid Rivers Mall Drive, St. Peters, MO 63376. Guest speaker Jack Banas, St. Charles County Prosecuting Attorney will talk on prosecution, alternatives and reentry. Info: email Karleen Rogers krogers@sccmo.org February 25: CTK Trivia Night Doors open at 6:30 p.m., trivia starts at 7 p.m. Christ the King Lutheran Church (414 S Church St, St Peters 63376). $60/table of 8, $10/person. Soft drinks & light snacks provided. Attendance prizes & games. All proceeds benefit Children’s programing.

Great if you are new to trivia, we will show you the ropes. Registration form is available at www. ctklutheran-elca.org.

EVENTS February 18: Kid’s Night Out, St. Charles County YMCA & Early Childhood Education Center

www.krekeler.com

6:30-10:30 p.m. Ages 5-12.

Swimming, playing games and arts & crafts. $20 in advance, $25 at the door. Ages 6 months-6 years can come to the Y’s Early Childhood Education Center for fun activities, movies & games. $25, $20 for Y Members. Call 636.928.1928 to register.

February 21: St. Charles Kiwanis Club Pancake Day Formerly held on Fat Tuesday. 6 a.m. - 7 p.m. at Blanchette Memorial Hall. $7 for adults, $5 for children. All you can eat Pancakes & Sausage. Tickets available in advance by calling John Pallardy at 636.946.7088. All proceeds go to supporting the St. Charles area youth.

February 23: Mom’s Afternoon Out, O’Fallon Family YMCA 1-4 p.m. for ages 6 weeks to 5 years. $10/child. Registrations must be received by noon on Wednesday before the scheduled date. Info: 636.379.0092.

February 24: FZS Grad Night

Trivia Night 7 p.m. at the Elks Lodge, 1163 Tom Ginnever Blvd., O’Fallon, MO. Table of 8 is $160. Must be 21. Heads or Tails, basket raffle, and more. Proceeds benefit 2012 Grad Night celebration. Register by calling Kathy Fenske at 636.281.8552 or email kathyfenske@charter.net.

February 24: Fort Zumwalt South Band Boosters 5th Annual Trivia Contest Trigg Banquet Center (300 O’Fallon Plaza in downtown O’Fallon). Doors open at 6:15 p.m., 10 rounds of 10 questions begin at 7 p.m. $160/table of 8 players. Adults only. Soda & beer provided; wine & mixed drinks for $3 each; no outside beverages allowed. Snacks furnished but you may bring your own.

50/50 drawings, basket raffle, dead or alive, heads or tails, and cash prize for the first place table.

Reserve your table by contacting Tammy Paneitz at 314.306.6891 or tmypan@charter.net.

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February 25: Kid’s Night Out, O’Fallon Family YMCA 7-10 p.m. For ages 6+. Rock Wall. $10/child in advance, $15/ child at the door. Swimming, crafts, rock wall, bingo & more.

Concessions available for purchase. Info: 636.379.0092.

February 25: Tot’s Night Out, O’Fallon Family YMCA 7-10 p.m. $15/child in advance.

Registrations must be received by 5 p.m. the Friday before the event to ensure a spot. Ages 6 weeks to 5 years. Info: 636.379.0092.

February 27: Blood Drive 3-7 p.m. The American Red Cross will be collecting blood at Dardenne Prairie City Hall.

Please join us to donate blood and help others! Walk-in’s welcome. Call 636.755.5335 to schedule an appointment.

HEALTH February 22: Know the 10 Signs 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Katheryn Linnemann Library (2323 Elm St., St. Charles, MO 63301). Reviews the 10 warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, and discusses the importance of early detection as well as treatment options. Free. Features an interactive lecture. You will also learn how to tap into the Alzheimer’s Association for information and support, and learn ways to reduce the risk factors for Alzheimer’s. Preregistration required. Register at www.alz. org/stl or call 800.272.3900.

Now - June 21: LIVESTRONG at the O’Fallon Family YMCA Trained instructors will lead small groups to help cancer survivors improve daily functional ability. The program will focus on reducing the severity of treatment side effects, preventing unwanted weight changes and improving energy levels and self-esteem.

• Now - March 29, Tues & Thurs, 5:30 p.m. - 6:45 p.m.

• February 20 - May 9, Mon & Wed, 11:15 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Info: Kristi Bradley at 636.379.0092.

Exercise Classes for Cancer Patients & Survivors

www.changescapeweb.com/cnewsad www.stcharlesconventioncenter.com

Community News - St. Charles County • February 15, 2012 • 13

Free for breast cancer survivors/patients, discounted for all other cancer survivors/patients.

All participants must have a referral from their SSM Cancer Care or SSM Breast Care physician. Stop by the YMCA service center or call 636.928.1928 (St. Charles YMCA) or 636.379.0092 (O’Fallon YMCA) to register.

Diabetes Self Management Training (DSMT) Includes a series of three classes over a three- to four- month period held at SSM St. Joseph Health Center. DSMT is available with a doctor’s order. Info: 636.949.9600 or Patty Shelton at 636.947.5573.

Medical Nutrition Therapy A nutritional diagnostic therapy and counseling service held at SSM St. Joseph Health Center for disease management with a licensed, registered dietitian. Available with a doctor’s order only.

To register call 636.949.9600.

Info: 636.947.5163.

Free Mammogram Screenings SSM Health Care offers free mammogram screenings to women who have no health insurance, by appointment only.

Must meet qualifications. Appointments are available at SSM St. Joseph Health Center, 300 First Capitol Drive in St. Charles, SSM St. Joseph Hospital West, 100 Medical Plaza in Lake Saint Louis, SSM St. Joseph Medical

Park, 1475 Kisker Road in St. Peters, and SSM St. Joseph Health Center-Wentzville, 500 Medical Drive in Wentzville. For more information, call 636.947.5617.

12 Step Support Group for Women Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse Meets in 4 locations in the metro St. Louis area. Info: metrostlouissia@gmail.com.

• 1st and 3rd Monday: 9:30-11 a.m.

500 Medical Dr in Wentzville; doctors dining room of St Joseph Hospital; contact 636-561-1407.

• 2nd and 4th Tuesday: 6:30-8 p.m.

2 Progress Point Parkway in O’Fallon, MO; 4th floor conference room of Progress West Hospital; contact 636-561-1407.

Support Groups February 15: ICD Support Group 6:30 p.m. Open to individuals with an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator, also known as an ICD. This group meets on the third Wednesday of alternating months, ending in October. Info: 636.947.5682.

1st & 3rd Mondays: Sharing Losses Through Bereavement 1-2:30 p.m. at SSM Home Care & Hospice, 1187 Corporate Lake Drive. For families/friends who want help understanding and coping with the death of a loved

www.kslq.com

www.rhf.org

one. To register, please call 314.

SSM.DOCS (776.3627).

Every Mon.: 7 p.m. Tobacco Free for Life Support group. Free. St. Peters City Hall. 636.947.5304.

1st Mon.: Better Breathers Club Those w/chronic lung disease. St. Joseph Health Cntr., 300 1st Capitol Dr., St. Charles. Free lunch.

636.947.5684.

4th Tues: 6:30-7:30 p.m. Diabetes Support Group At HW Koenig Med Bldg, St Joseph Hosp. West. 636.625.5447 Last Tues.: 7–8:30 p.m. HOPE (Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Support Group) Sponsored by SSM St. Joseph Health Cntr & SSM, at Harvester Christian Church, Rm CH–104, 2950 Kings Crossing.

636.928.7651, x. 115.

3rd Wed. KidsCan! 6:30–8 p.m. Siteman Cancer Center, Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hosp., 150 Entrance Way, St. Peters. Support children 4–12 w/ parent/significant caregiver w/ cancer.

1st Thurs.: Conquer 6:30–7:30 p.m. Support Group for adults w/cancer. Siteman Cancer Cntr, Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hosp., 150 Entrance Way, St. Peters. Call 636.916.9920.

2nd Thurs.: 4 p.m. Support Group for Alzheimer’s Delmar Gardens, 7068 S. Outer 364, O’Fallon. Call: Jennifer Krpan, Ralph Covinsky 636.240.6100.

4th Thurs.: 6:30–8 p.m. Breast Cancer Support Group Siteman Cancer Cntr, BarnesJewish St. Peters Hosp., 150 Entrance Way. 636.928.WELL

(9355) or 800.392.0936. http:// siteman.bjsph.org.

3rd Sun. 12:45-1:45 p.m. Alzheimer’s Meeting Morning Star Church, 1600 Feise Rd., O’Fallon. Faith-based for caregivers, family of those w/ memory loss. 1.800.272.3900.

Gateway to Hope Program Arranges care for individuals diagnosed w/breast cancer who are either uninsured or underinsured & reside in MO. Gateway to Hope serves as a breast cancer lifeline for those who do not qualify for government sponsored programs & are unable to afford treatment. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with breast cancer & cannot access treatment call Gateway to Hope at 314.569.1113 or visit www.gthstl.org.

Sudoku Solutions from page 16

14 • February 15, 2012 • Community News - St. Charles County

Daffodils Provide Hope Through American Cancer Society Program For more than 35 years, the American Cancer Society Daffodil Days® program has been making a difference in the fight against cancer and providing hope for those facing the disease. Although Daffodil Days involves offering daffodils to donors every spring in appreciation for their contributions, it is about more than just giving beautiful flowers; it is an opportunity to share hope for a world with less cancer and more birthdays, where cancer never steals another year from anyone’s life.

St. Louis metropolitan residents have until Tuesday, February 21 to place requests for daffodils. For a donation of $10, supporters will receive a bouquet of fresh-cut daffodils and, more importantly, the knowledge that they are helping fight cancer. Other products are also available, including an exclusive Boyds Bear and a special Daffodil Days vase.

The American Cancer Society is also looking for volunteers– anyone from school children to corporate CEOs – to assist in taking requests, packing and delivering daffodils during February and March at work, in neighborhoods, in schools, and around town.

“The daffodil is the first flower we see in the spring; it gives us hope of the bright, warm weather ahead. Our Daffodil Days program provides that same hope for people facing cancer in our region,” said Fran Miley, American Cancer Society staff for the program.

Dollars raised through Daffodil Days provide the Society with much-needed funds to save lives by helping people stay well by preventing cancer or detecting it early; helping people get well by being there for them during and after a cancer diagnosis; by finding cures through investment in groundbreaking discovery; and by fighting back by rallying lawmakers to pass laws to defeat cancer and by rallying communities worldwide to join the fight.

For more information about Daffodil Days, to place an order or to get involved with the program, please contact the St. Louis office at 314.286.8148 or visit www. cancer.org/daffodils.

State Seeking Organizations to Serve Meals to Children During Summer Months The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services is looking for organizations throughout the state to help feed thousands of children who would otherwise go without meals during the summer months when school is not in session.

The Summer Food Service Program reimburses organizations for meals they serve to children who are at risk of not having enough to eat. The program is one way Missouri is working to fight childhood hunger.

“This program is so important for Missouri children. For some of them it’s the only nutritious meal they receive daily during the school year. We want to make sure that doesn’t end for these children just because school is out for the summer,” said Margaret Donnelly, director of the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.

The summer food program provides nutritious meals to children under age 18 during the summer months when school breakfast and lunch programs are not operating.

Organizations eligible to participate in the program include schools, faithbased organizations, camps, private nonprofit agencies and local governments.

The sites are required to be located in areas where at least half of the children are eligible to receive free or reduced-price meals.

The federally funded program is administered by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. The department will accept applications March 1 through May 15 to participate in the program. Organizations interested in becoming sponsors are required to attend training.

More information about the Summer Food Service Program is available online at www.health.mo.gov/sfsp , by telephone at 888.435.1464 (toll-free) or through RELAY MISSOURI for the Hearing and Speech Impaired at 1.800.735.2966. Potential sponsors may also write to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, Summer Food Service Program, P.O. Box 570, Jefferson City, MO 65102.

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Community News - St. Charles County • February 15, 2012 • 15

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16 • February 15, 2012 • Community News - St. Charles County

Oldest Pick: “Second Fiddle”

Community News is proud to offer our readers “Book Buzz.”

This column will feature great books for children in three categories: Youngest Pick: early childhood to the first or second grade, Middle Pick: elementary school children, and Oldest Pick: middle school children. Enjoy!

Reprinted with permission, Missourian Publishing Company.

Copright 2012.

SUDOKU:

Fill in the blank squares in the grid, making sure that every row, column and 3-by3 box includes all the digits 1 through 9.

There’s trouble for a musical trio in “Second Fiddle,” by Rosanne Parry, an author who spent time in Germany and so felt right at home creating a book based on that country in 1990, just after the fall of the Berlin Wall.

Middle-schoolers Jody, Vivian and Giselle become enmeshed in a web of international espionage when they save the life of a young Estonian soldier they’ve fished from the river in East Germany, a locale they’re not even supposed to visit.

But these girls are independent and worldly-the daughters of American servicemen stationed in Germany during a time of unrest when the Soviet Union was exerting its force and trying to prevent Estonia, Latvia and other Baltic States from breaking away from the mother land.

Jody relates the story of the girls’ last chance to compete together--a madcap trip to Paris to compete in a string contest, and the problems they encounter when they decide they must help the young soldier by taking him along. Of course this is done on the sly, without any of their parents knowing.

So begins a whirlwind series of encounters in Paris that prove unforgettable for the friends, a trip fraught with danger that will keep readers glued to the page.

Make Exercise a Healthy Habit Making exercise a habit is not easy for most people. It seems everyone is motivated to start the New Year off right and begin a healthy lifestyle, but many fall of that wagon. Here are some simple steps to increase motivation and maintain that healthy lifestyle.

What are some of the reasons we become unmotivated? One of the main reasons I hear from members is they do not have enough time, and outside forces make it difficult to get to the gym. Sometimes people make too many goals and become overwhelmed. They get frustrated from not seeing results fast enough. This day and age people want a quick fix and unfortunately, a long-term healthy lifestyle change does not come overnight.

By Sarah Gildehaus

Making exercise a priority is not easy, especially for someone who has lead a sedentary lifestyle, but it can be done. Some key motivators to starting and staying on track include making small, realistic goals for yourself. Track your workouts and food journal so you can reward yourself later. Read success stories from other people. Sign up for an activity like a race and train for it (this will give you a goal). Finally, and most important, find a workout partner. It is very easy to miss a workout if you are the only one counting on you showing up, but if a friend is counting on you to be there you will not let them down.

Once you have successfully worked exercise into your

See solution on page 13

lifestyle, you will start to see benefits, but keeping it going for the rest of your life can be another obstacle. Try to think about all of the benefits of working out instead of the negatives (especially before your workout when you do not want to and during when it is too hard). Remember how you will feel after the workout. Visualize how you are going to look, how you’ll fit into new clothes, and how you’ll feel reaching your goals.

This is all easier said than done, but these simple steps will get you on the right track for success. You are the only person holding yourself back from leading a healthy lifestyle.

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