CN: January 25, 2017

January 25, 2017

St. Louis honors Dr. King

Around Town MDC reminds residents to exercise caution during and after ice storms, offers treecare tips. P.3 Cindy Moore will make you laugh with “Leader of the pack”. P.5 Check out the Best of North County Ballot and vote for your favorite North County area business. P.7 A stranger’s gift of life. P.9

Community Voices By Dr. Charles J. Pearson. P.2 A variety of performances and speeches calling for greater social justice in the region took place in St. Louis’ historic Old Courthouse on Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

Photo by Nicholas Elmes

City, county mark MLK Day with calls to justice and action

Learn & Play

By Nicholas Elmes Organizations throughout the St. Louis region honored the memory and ideas of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. last week with calls for action in the community and events aimed at improving social justice. The largest celebration, heralded as the second largest in the country, kicked off with over an hour of rousing speeches and performances at the historic old courthouse in downtown St. Louis before participants marched through the city streets. Leaders from throughout the region warned that events from the past couple of years proved that Dr. King’s dream had not yet been achieved and encouraged those in attendance to fight against racism and injustice in a non-violent manner. “When I think about Dr. King’s dream of equality I have to ask: is that dream realized or is it a dream deferred?” said City License Collector Mavis Thompson. “Despite our progress, we find ourselves being revisited by the ghosts of the past. Old battles against racism, indifference and injustice are still being waged.” Thompson said the region must also do more to address homelessness and provide for those less fortunate. “The struggle is not just black,” she said. “The struggle is for equality. Let’s go out and fight injustice together and in love.” City Comptroller Darleen Green said that fight or justice also revolved around how funding was spent in the region. “I cannot subsidize a stadium, I cannot subsidize a hotel, I cannot subsidize an office tower before I consider our young people,” she said. “When we subsidize we are short

changing our young people in the classroom. We could have better teachers and pay them better salaries. We could improve facilities at the schools. We could improve police training. We cannot gamble our young people’s future. We must recognize our young people need our help and our hope. “We must face our challenges head on,” she added, joining other speakers in saying that growing gun violence in the metro area was one of those biggest challenges. “In 2015 we had 188 murders and in 2016 we did not do any better.” “Go back into your communities and tell your cousins, your brothers, and your uncles that we must keep the dream alive by not taking a life,” said St. Louis NAACP President Albert Manson, Sr. “Tell them to put the gun down. It is bad when your grandmother cannot safely operate her vehicle in the street without fear of them being taken from her because of some knucklehead with a gun.” Khatib Waheed, a national presenter, facilitator and education consultant, provided a list of concerns that stemmed from racism and poverty in the area. “In St. Louis, we are still ranked in the top 10 of the most racially segregated cities and regions in the country,” he said, noting the variety of disparities between those living north of Delmar Boulevard and those living in the southern part of the city. But Waheed said that with every concern he also saw opportunities to address inequality, racism, and issues of poverty. In the county, two churches in disparate neighborhoods worked together on Martin Luther King Day to facilitate discussion

across the county about just those issues. “Typically Martin Luther King Day is a day when are off from work, but for the past several years at Wellspring Chruch we have been trying to make Martin Luther King Day a day to be on,” said Nickie Reinhart-Swierk, the coordinator of Institutional Readiness at the Center of Social Empowerment – a nonprofit which arose from Wellspring Church’s involvement in the the Ferguson protests. “Martin Luther King Day is a day about justice in our communities and we have been encouraging people to not use the day to sleep in, but instead to go out and improve the world.” She said in previous years the church has spearheaded community volunteering on the day. “That was all good and important work, but we kind of realized that that was not the work that changes the world,” said ReinhartSwierk. “We wanted to do more and really infuse justice into the day.” So this year the church partnered with The Gathering in Clayton, and The Walker Leadership Institute at Eden Theological Seminary to create a day of learning and engagement centered on conversations to generate positive social engagement. “We started with two different workshops in the morning,” said Reinhart-Swierk. “Our artist in residence David Winningham led a workshop on art and justice where he had participants do pinch pots where every different quality of the pot, the color, texture, shape, represented one part of your identity. So the color of the pot represented your racial See ‘DR. KING’ page 2

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January 25, 2017 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

COMMUNITY VOICES Educating for the future, changing lives today By Dr. Charles J. Pearson As I write this piece, I have attended four-holiday concerts in our schools in the recent days. Children proudly walk on stage, sit with backs straight as they play their instruments and stare intently at the music on the stand in front of them. Teachers, directors and other caring adults position themselves on the stage in front of children or stand quietly by offering guidance and support during a performance. Students take the stage with memorized lines and a clear focus of where they need to be on stage when the curtain opens or closes on a scene in the play. And then there are the organizations that have shown themselves to be true partners in our work. Kindergarten classrooms each received a free classroom set of books. The young learners each received a library card and a personal book to take home. And all of this was presented by a master juggler that entertained children while sharing the power of reading and visiting the library. The Governor of Missouri visited the high school along with Missouri AT&T leadership to announce additional sup-

port for the Jobs for American Graduates program at the high school – a program that supports students graduating high school and pursuing either a career or college. As we continually focus on preparing our children for the future, while meeting their many daily needs, I remind each of us – educators and families alike – to take time to appreciate all that is happening and celebrate all that we are being blessed to accomplish. For each of us that spend time with family, amid all of the celebrations, keep talking with young children. Play math games with them, let the child help cook, make lists for gifts, prepare meals, write cards and thank you notes, or add up how much you are spending (they can really keep us honest there!). Read to children, or have older children to read to the younger ones. Have young readers to make up different endings for stories, or better yet write and illustrate their own stories about the family. This type of activity keeps children alert and engaged while they are out of school. It helps stu-

dents to learn the language, show what they know and problem solve. These opportunities will really help children to stay engaged in learning and filled with great stories to share. I always come back to this truth – parents are the first and best teachers of their children. Schools support homes and homes support schools. Enjoy the time together! Dr. Charles J. Pearson is currently the Superintendent of the Normandy Schools Collaborative. He has been committed to serving in the public education arena for over 35 years. Pearson received his doctorate in Educational Leadership from St. Louis University in 2007. He is married to Betty and they have three adult children and live in Normandy. The opinions expressed in this column are the columnist’s alone and do not reflect the opinion of the owners or staff of Community News.

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‘DR. KING’ from cover identity and you would share with people at your table about your race and what that meant to you. The texture represented your abilities and you would talk about what it is like to live with or without an ability. It helps us understand that each of us are made up of all of these different qualities and you cannot generalize people.” “It is a pretty complex topic focused on intersectionality and how we each come from many different places,” said Winningham. The second workshop was based on a book by Wellspring Pastor Willis Johnson called “Holding Up Your Corner.” “We worked on acknowledging our place in racist systems and affirming those who are suffering under those systems,” said Reinhart-Swierk. “We talked about how the upheaval in Ferguson was portrayed a crazy riot instead of this outcry from a hurting community. Then we ended with a reading of “Letter From Birmingham Jail” and talking about what we could do tomorrow to start to create justice.” In the afternoon Johnson led an informal discussion between area faith leaders and contemporary theologian Will Willimon, professor of the Practice of Christian Ministry and former dean of the chapel at Duke University. Willimon, a white Southerner who describes himself as a “recovering racist,” talked about what it was like growing up in a racist community in the south and how he had dedicated his life to fighting for justice and greater social consciousness. Willimon, who also provided a service at Wellspring Church later in the evening, said the issues of justice and inequality that had risen in the past couple of years were a good opportunity for those of faith to rededicate themselves to the true meaning of Christianity. “I don’t believe the church has a social policy,” he said. “I believe the church is the social policy. There are a lot of good people out there that are worried and aware. They would love for somebody to say, we have a program and a proposition and something you can do.”

Photos by Nicholas Elmes Top: A large crowd gathered in St. Louis’ historic Old Courthouse last week to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day. The event was kicked off with a variety of performances and speeches calling for greater social justice in the region. Middle: A large group of area civil rights leaders and activists gather outside the Old Courthouse before embarking on a Martin Luther King Day march through downtown St. Louis. Bottom: Dr. Will Willimon and Pastor Willis Johnson lead an informal discussion with area religious leaders over the place of social justice in today’s Christian churches. The event was part of a full day of activities organized by Ferguson’s Wellspring Church and Clayton’s The Gathering aimed at raising questions about and inspiring action against racism and injustice in the St. Louis area.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • January 25, 2017

MDC reminds residents to exercise caution during and after ice storms, offers tree-care tips

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Photo courtesy Missouri Department of Conservation An ice storm in December 2007 damaged these and other trees around Conservation Headquarters in Jefferson City. In the wake of a severe weather event such as an ice storm, use caution in proceeding with tree care and removal. MDC offers free resources on how to take action in a safe and responsible manner.

When winter weather hits, Missourians know to expect the unexpected. From snow and ice, to strong winds and extreme cold, severe winter weather poses a diverse set of risks to residents. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reminds Missourians to exercise caution in dealing with the effects of icy weather. When storms damage trees, clean-up and recovery can seem bewildering. Some injured trees can be trimmed to maintain their health and value to homeowners. Others should be removed. Knowing what repairs to make, how to make them, and how to avoid paying for unneeded services can help keep injury – both physical and financial – at a minimum. “Trees are a part of the character of our community and damage to them after a storm can feel traumatic,” said MDC Urban Forester Ann Koenig. “Trees are amazingly resilient, so after a storm, try to be patient.” Before taking action to trim or remove trees damaged in an ice storm, residents should consider the following advice from MDC: Safety First: Be aware of utility lines and hazardous overhanging limbs. Alert your electricity provider immediately and allow experts to assess the danger. Remove trees or limbs that have fallen on your home or are blocking access to your residence. Also, look for any hanging limbs in trees that could drop on your home. Know your skill level and do not take on more than you can safely accomplish yourself. “Slippery ice, brittle, heavy wood, and chainsaws are an extremely dangerous mix for homeowners,” said Koenig. “Leave it to professionals with proper training, experience, and equipment to take care of large trees and any work off the ground.” Be Patient: Any remaining tree damage can wait until the immediate crisis has passed. As long as there isn’t a safety risk, take your time to assess the damage and make decisions on which trees to cut and which ones to save. If a tree does not present a hazard, take the time to ensure it gets proper care and make a final decision about it in a few weeks or months. Before beginning any tree work, determine whether your insurance policy covers tree work.

Many policies will cover at least part of the cost of tree removal if some structural damage has occurred. Determine whether damaged trees need pruning or complete removal. If a valuable tree appears to be a borderline case, resist the temptation to simply cut the tree down and be done with it. Remember, time is on your side. After carefully pruning broken branches, give the tree time to recover. Often, new foliage will return the tree to its natural beauty. If not, the decision to remove the tree can always be made later. Hire a Qualified Arborist: Warning: Use caution before hiring people who knock on your door. Good arborists generally are too busy to generate business this way. Door knockers are especially common after a storm and are notorious for recommending unhealthy tree-trimming practices such as “tree topping.” “It’s best to go with a qualified arborist,” said Koenig. “Check the yellow pages under ‘Tree Service’ for International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) certified arborists who are local and established in your area.” Being listed in the directory doesn’t guarantee that companies will do good work, but means that they are locally established and should be easier to track down later if something goes wrong. Ask for proof of certification and of membership in professional organizations such as ISA. Ask for proof of worker’s compensation and liability insurance, as well as local references. Good arborists are proud of their work and can provide a list of past clients. Do not accept “take-it-now” deals. The person offering these deals may pressure you into doing something you will regret later. Good arborists do not recommend topping. Conscientious arborists also will not use climbing spikes unless the tree is to be removed or someone is hurt. These practices damage trees unnecessarily. Take Heart: Trees are amazingly resilient and often possess the ability to recover from severe conditions over time. For more information, contact your local MDC office, or go online to mdc.mo.gov/resource/tree-care-after-storms.

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January 25, 2017 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Missouri Gaming Association’s Project 21 Scholarship deadline is March 1 The entry deadline for the Missouri Gaming Association’s 21st annual Project 21 scholarship is March 1. The Missouri Gaming Association, the statewide professional association of the Missouri casino industry, invites Missouri high school seniors to compete for two $1,500 first prize scholarships and four $1,000 second prize scholarships. The scholarship application and guidelines is available for download at www. missouricasinos.org or bit.ly/MGA_Project21_2017. The Project 21 scholarship program encourages students to educate their peers on the illegality, dangers and consequences of underage gambling. Students must write and publish an original essay or article in the school newspaper, or create a poster or video. Entries must be published or displayed at the student’s

high school for at least one full week between Dec. 1, 2016 and Feb. 15. Entries will be judged for originality, content, style and educational value. The article, poster or video must focus on the issues and ramifications of underage gambling. “We want students to know it is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to gamble in a Missouri casino,” said Mike Winter, executive director of the Missouri Gaming Association. “We also want them to understand the dangers and consequences of other types of underage gambling, such as card games and sports betting.” The Project 21 Scholarship competition is open to all Missouri high school seniors planning to attend

an institution of higher education in the United States within four years of graduation. 
 All Missouri high school seniors, including those whose parents are casino employees, are eligible for the Project 21 scholarships, provided their parent is not a Missouri Gaming Association officer or a Project 21 Executive Committee member. High school seniors employed part-time (less than 32 hours per week) by a Missouri casino also are eligible. The Project 21 scholarship application is available at www.missouricasinos.org or by calling 573-6344001. Written requests for applications can be sent to PO Box 305, Jefferson City, MO 65102. Winners will be announced by March 31 and scholarships will be awarded by April 15.

Weather from Nick’s Window

by Nick Palisch

Rapping about weather lingo

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I was at a stop light when a hotrod came bouncing up next to me. Gazing over at the car and the driver I began to question whether or not the car was meant for driving or if it was a thrill ride that escaped an amusement park. “Boom, Boom” was all I could hear as we waited at the stop light. The moment hit me for my next column, a weather rap song. In meteorology, we use a plethora of fun words to describe various weather patterns and events. Drive around in a small town and you will probably find the town’s barbershop and on the outside of the shop is a barber pole. In meteorology, a “barber pole” is used to describe the grooves or channels in a cloud. These are clouds that form within an updraft (rising air) and downdraft (falling air) and have swirls in them. This swirling signature indicates rotation exists. The swirling motion makes the cloud look like a barber pole. At the local zoo you will notice the bears and the visitors are separated by a cage. This is called a bear’s cage. In meteorology a “bear’s cage” is described as an area of strong rotation in a thunderstorm which is wrapped in heavy precipitation. The term refers to the danger involved in observing this type of area visually, since it must be done at close range and with low visibility. This is a danger zone for storm chasers since a tornado could be imbedded within this zone. The same would go for someone who was in a cage with a bear – you would be in trouble! In blackjack if you go over 21 you will bust. In meteorology, when the word “bust” is used it means an inaccurate forecast was given or an unsuccessful storm chase occurred. Remember weather is a science – no one is perfect. The term “core punching” or “core plunging” is when a person drives through very heavy precipitation of a thunderstorm. If you have ever been to a water park and you took a ride on the “Tidal Wave” you know exactly how it feels to core punch. If you’ve seen a beaver’s tail, you would notice they are flat and leathery, and in meteorology a “beaver’s tail” is a low, flat cloud and believe it or not is shaped like a beaver’s tail. These types of clouds are usually found on the east or southeast side of a thunderstorm. I don’t know if I would want to be punched to find out if a punch can be dry or wet, but nonetheless a “dry punch” is a

surge of drier air, which pushes above an area of moist air resulting in the increased risk of severe thunderstorms. The next time you are driving through fog, haze or drizzle to make it to your destination a little late just tell your boss you were caught in the “gunge.” “Gunge” is the slang given to fog, haze, drizzle or anything that obscures visibility. Your boss may ask what “gunge” is and all you have to do is tell them to look outside. Put your hand in front of your face now turn it over to where you can see your knuckles. In most people they are like a little bump in the finger – in weather “knuckles” are the lumpy edges of the base of a thunderstorm. These protrusions indicate strong updraft that enhances severe weather. Turkeys are popular game birds in Missouri and are often served at Thanksgiving. From time to time you can also find “turkey towers” in the sky. A “turkey tower” is a cumulus cloud (puffy cloud) that grows into a narrow, single tower in the sky and then falls apart rapidly. When “turkey towers” are noticed in the sky it is an indicator that the cap has been broken. A “cap” is a layer of warm air, several thousand feet above the surface, which suppresses or delays the development of thunderstorms. Think of it like this: when we wear a hat we control the heat in our bodies. If the hat is removed the heat escapes. When the cap in the atmosphere breaks we will see storms begin to develop. Even though I did not understand the lingo of the young man’s music as we sat idle at the stoplight, I realized we all have different lingo depending on what we are doing. So, the next time you are out and about avoid the bear’s cage and look for a beaver’s tail in the sky, and be prepared to slow down when you have gunge outside your window. Nick Palisch is a meteorologist and Missouri native who understands the weather here in our area. He currently resides in Lake Saint Louis and can be reached at nick-wx@sbcglobal. net and you can always get the most upto-date forecast from the FirstWarn Weather page at www.facebook.com/nickswx The opinions expressed in this column are the columnist’s alone and do not reflect the opinion of the owners or staff of Community News.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • January 25, 2017

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New Quake Kare website makes disaster preparedness easier for people and organizations Quake Kare, a top provider of emergency survival kits, has launched a new website to help minimize the stress of disaster preparedness for individuals, families, schools and businesses nationwide. “The inability to predict where and when disasters may occur makes it crucial for people and organizations to prepare for emergencies with reliable products and expert guidelines that can help save lives,” said Brittney Bettonville of Quake Kare. Quake Kare is owned by Lighthouse for the Blind-Saint Louis, also known as LHB Industries, Inc. The Lighthouse is a non-profit enterprise that helps children and adults who are visually impaired maintain dignity and independence by offering employment, education and support services. All Quake Kare sales revenue directly supports Lighthouse service programs for people who are blind or visually impaired in Missouri and Southwestern Illinois. The Lighthouse currently employs 48 people who are legally blind in two manufacturing plants in St. Louis County to assemble, pack and ship Quake Kare survival kits and many other products for consumer, corporate and government customers. “Our new website provides free emergency preparedness guidelines and describes our spectrum of emergency survival kits that help people survive hurricanes, tornadoes, lockdowns, terrorist acts and other disasters that can occur anytime, anywhere,” Bettonville said. “As a not-for-profit organization, Quake Kare specializes in reducing the stress of disaster preparedness as an experienced source of dependable, affordable products that help people when emergencies occur,” she said. All Quake Kare products shown on the new website at http://www.quakekare.com are described and illustrated in detail. Two of the most popular survival kits available via the website are Quake Kare’s Family Survival Kit and School Lockdown Kit.

Moore On Life

Quake Kare, a top provider of emergency survival kits like this one, has launched a new website.

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“We now receive many requests from school officials through our website for our Safety Lockdown Container Survival Kit,” said Brian Houser of Quake Kare. With necessary emergency supplies for up to 72 hours, Quake Kare’s Safety Lockdown Container Survival Kit is equipped for use in classrooms and homes. It contains emergency food, water, lighting, first-aid, a portable toilet, and shelter supplies, as well as a solar / hand-crank powered flashlight; weather band radio; and a USB device charger that never needs batteries to charge smartphones and other USB devices. “Many people do not have a disaster plan in place. Given the uncertain environment that we live in today, it is crucial for people and organizations to prepare for surviving unexpected emergencies, whether natural or man-made,” said Houser.

By Cindy Moore

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Leader of the pack It’s been a long two plus weeks recovering from the Bubonic Plague. Okay, so maybe it was just the Bubonic Flu, but when you’re floating face down in the big bathtub of life circling death’s drain, there’s not much difference. I finally changed out of my bedspread and put on my ratty old blue robe. Don’t judge! That was progress. I hadn’t been in real clothes for days and my tangled bed head was so bad, the words ”Serta” had become imprinted on the side of my skull. And I had downed so much chicken noodle soup my husband said I started clucking in delirium at sunrise. I’m over that phase, although I still have a strange impulse to perch on the banister and peck at my dinner plate. Enough was enough. Though I had inched passed death’s door by the skins of my bicuspids; I was suffering from a new malady – a raging temperature called…cabin fever! When I was well enough to form the words, “Let’s blow this popsicle stand!” we began to pack for a short getaway. Packing created all sorts of issues. My husband threw some undies, his PJs and a t-shirt into a backpack. His Ziploc of toiletries consisted of a toothbrush, paste, razor, deodorant and most importantly, his handy nose hair clippers. Full disclosure: if those follicles were allowed to go free-range, they would sprout like Jack’s beanstalk overnight. For the sake of humanity, they MUST be controlled at all times.

He was ready to go in 31.2 seconds. Four hours later he came in to see every outfit I owned strewn across the bedroom. “What’s this? We’re only going for a few days.” “Yes, but what if it rains? What if it snows? What if it’s burning hot? What if we decide to go somewhere fancy? What if we should run into someone I need to impress, like your mother? What if I have a Slurpee and trip and it spills all over me? What if the lighting’s different and nothing matches? What if we’re stuck in traffic for three days; I’ll need something comfortable. I need to be prepared and must have coordinating footwear, purses, jewelry, scarves, shirts, pants, socks, sweaters, dresses and jackets for any and all such scenarios which might present themselves.” “You do realize, you’ve worn the same bedspread now for fourteen days and survived?” He had a point. I grabbed a t-shirt and we headed out the door. 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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January 25, 2017 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

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Pattonville board places $23 million zero tax rate increase bond issue on April ballot The Pattonville Board of Education on Jan. 10 approved a new facilities plan for the district and voted to place a $23 million zero tax rate increase bond issue to fund the plan on the April 4 election ballot for voter approval. Passage of the bond issue will not increase the district’s debt service tax rate, which is used solely to fund construction and major repair and improvement projects in the district. The new facilities plan includes projects that address the following priorities: • Enhancing school safety and security. • Ongoing maintenance and repair of aging fa-

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cilities, including energy-efficient updates. • Alleviating space issues at the elementary schools by creating an early childhood center in the former Briar Crest Elementary School. • Providing facilities to help students get involved in school and address their long-term fitness and health needs. • The facilities plan includes projects at all schools in the district. Creating an early childhood center at Briar Crest will free up classroom space at Pattonville’s elementary schools and enable the district to maintain lower elementary class sizes.

Hazelwood keeps Dr. King’s dream alive despite ice storm Photo courtesy city of Hazelwood

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The Hazelwood Community Enrichment Commission carried on its tradition of hosting a Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., for the 15th straight year on Jan. 15, at Civic Center East. This year’s program featured Dr. Dan Isom, Des Lee Professor of Policing and the Community at University of Missouri-St. Louis and retired Police Chief, as the keynote speaker. Howard Richards, Mizzou’s newly appointed Assistant

Athletic Director for Community Relations, was the master of ceremonies. Other program participants included these pictured individuals (from left) St. Louis County Executive Steve Stenger; Hazelwood Community Enrichment Commission chairperson Helena Smith; Mayor Matthew Robinson of Hazelwood; and Maj. Ken Jewson, Hazelwood Police Department.

Score one for life with the St. Louis Blues and Red Cross

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The St. Louis Blues, Fox Sports Midwest, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and the American Red Cross encourage donors to help patients get back in the game by donating blood Wednesday, Feb. 1 at the annual St. Louis Blues Blood Drive. Fans will have the opportunity to give blood at eight locations in Missouri and Illinois. Everyone who presents to donate will receive a specially designed 50th Anniversary Blues logo T-shirt, while supplies last. This year’s Blues Blood Drive comes at a critical time as there is a shortage of blood products due to severe winter weather. In addition, the ice storm that hit the Missouri-Illinois Region earlier in January forced the cancellation of 20 blood drives resulting in over 650 donations of blood that went uncollected. “We have a vital need for blood donations to help ensure patient needs continue to be met,” said Todd Wagner, Director of Donor Recruitment, American Red Cross, Missouri-Illinois Region. “We are extremely grateful to the Blues and each of these locations for helping us answer the call at a critical time.” The St. Louis Blues Blood Drive will be held Feb. 1 from 1 - 7 p.m. at the following locations. Appointments can be made by downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting redcrossblood.org and entering sponsor code “Blues” or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

St. Louis Blues Blood Drive • Painters District Council 58, 2501 59th St. in St. Louis • The Pointe, 1 Ballwin Commons Circle Drive in Ballwin • The Heights, 8001 Dale Ave. in Richmond Heights • River Chase, 990 Horan in Fenton • Meramec Arnold Elks Lodge, 1515 Miller Road in Imperial • The Mills, 5555 St. Louis Mills Blvd. in Hazelwood • Calvary Church, 3898 Mid Rivers Mall Drive in St. Peters

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • January 25, 2017

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Advertiser Profile: The art of living

By Russ Patton, owner of Byerly RV

When we designed the new Byerly in 1999 we wanted to celebrate life on the road, the RV way. Two local artists, Jay Ferger and Debbie Ferris captured the dream in giant, hand-painted murals decorating our showroom. They are a pictorial journey representing the four cardinal points and mounted on their respective walls. Each picture evokes an expression. What do they say to you? We cover the four directions, the four seasons with eleven murals. We could say that there is one for every month of the year. Perhaps the missing one is for you to create. Can

you picture yourself RVing into the world of “Natural Light?” Never before has the natural beauty of America been so accessible. There is no substitute for being there. Go for it! Your RV is your second home on wheels. And since 1948, Byerly RV has been your gateway to adventure and family memories. Byerly RV, the Center of the RV World. Check us out at Byerlyrv.com and Facebook. Just two miles east of Six Flags in Eureka, Missouri. 1-800-8RV-DEAL.

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January 25, 2017 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Hazelwood students and teachers celebrate positive behavior

Photo courtesy Hazelwood School District Students, teachers, and staff at Hazelwood Northwest Middle School celebrate 90 percent student attendance as part of the PBIS program, an initiative of the Missouri Department of Secondary Education.

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Hazelwood Northwest Middle School teachers and staff honored students with an in-school Positive Behavior Intervention Support (PBIS) celebration to encourage positive behavior. PBIS is an initiative of the Missouri Department of Secondary Education. There were 650 students who had 90 percent attendance, and no discipline infractions attended the “Knights of Fun” event. The event was held at the school on a Friday evening. “This event is our way of celebrating our students’ positive behavior, to encourage them to

continue on the right path” said Dr. Kevin M. Martin, assistant principal at Northwest Middle. “It is very important that we honor our students’ successes by rewarding them with enjoyable activities.” PBIS is a process of creating safer and more effective schools, by structuring the learning environment to support the academic and social success of all students. The process supports the adoption and longterm implementation of efficient and effective discipline throughout the school environment.

Catholic schools collaborating: What does that mean? In many areas, Catholic elementary schools are known more for their competition than collaboration, but in North County that is no longer the case. Since the 2010-11 school year, Catholic parishes and schools have been working together as the Federation of Catholic Schools, building relationships and establishing the foundation for working together even more in the future. One of the flagship collaborative programs of the Federation is called “Professional Learning Teams (PLTs).” Teachers of the same grade level and/or subject area gather to share best practices and support one another in solving classroom challenges. “PLTs give me the support of another teacher when I am (usually) the only one of my grade level in my building. We use each other as resources, and we have shared our success stories and lesson ideas with others in the group,” said Kendra McFail, fifth grade teacher at St. Ferdinand School. “We have a student-centered goal and use the time together to come up with ways to help our students become successful in several areas. It brings us together. It is a true collaboration effort that I believe benefits both the teacher and the student.” In addition to proving the opportunity for teachers to share best practices and resources, PLTs also provide an opportunity for community engagement. For the third year SSM Health DePaul Hospital will sponsor the CatholicFIT program in the spring, where all third and sixth grade students learn about the connection be-

www.ExploreCatholicSchools.com

tween faith and fitness in their P.E. classes. Fitness trainer and coach Dave Reddy, creator of the program, sees a strong connection between faith and fitness, between spiritual and physical health, and notes that elementary school is an ideal time for kids to start noticing and reflecting on this connection. “CatholicFIT is not about being super holy and/or super fit—it is about offering universal, values-based programs for our children so when they struggle in either area throughout life, they look back upon this experience for guidance and support,” says Reddy. This collaborative spirit lays the groundwork for future planning, as the schools look forward to embracing the “Renaissance” for Catholic Education that the Archdiocesan School Oversight Committee is working on throughout the Archdiocese of St. Louis. Details of the proposed plan are being shared with parishioners and school families throughout North County at meetings in January. The committee is collecting input and will provide updates to the recommended plan in February. The nine Catholic elementary schools in North County that participate in the Federation of Catholic Schools are: Blessed Teresa of Calcutta School, Christ Light of the Nations School, Our Lady of Guadalupe School, Sacred Heart School, St. Ann School – Normandy, St. Angela Merici School, St. Ferdinand School, St. Norbert and St. Rose Philippine Duchesne School.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • January 25, 2017

Around Town

9

A stranger’s gift of life Warrenton woman donates kidney to one-year-old she had never met By Brett Auten Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital in St. Louis was the location last week for a special reunion. A year ago, on Jan. 18, 2016, a virtual stranger donated a kidney to the Bahr family of Arnold and gave this family the gift of life to their then 14-month-old son, Blake. Heather and Nick Bahr were told they were having a baby boy, but they also found out the baby only had one kidney and the kidney he had was in bad shape due to severe hydronephrosis. Baby Bahr was monitored in utero around the clock and the medical team decided to deliver at 36 weeks. In November 2014, Blake Bahr was born. On his second day of life, Blake went into kidney failure and was taken by ambulance to Cardinal Glennon. At three days old, Blake had his first surgery to place a dialysis catheter. Blake needed dialysis to survive because This side-by-side picture of Blake Bahr were both taken on New Year’s Eve one year the one kidney he was born with was only apart. On the left Blake was on dialysis and full of fluid from his treatments along with needing a feeding tube. On the right he is tube free and in good health. functioning at seven-to-10-percent and Submitted photos the Bahrs spent six weeks in the hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Laurie Jansen holds Blake Bahr, the little boy to whom she donated a kidney. The two had A medical battle never met until Jansen read about Blake’s medical needs on Facebook. There were complications with the catheter leaking so the family was sent home to give Baby Blake time to heal before the dialysis process was started full force. changed for me. I did gain more family and hopefully raised awareness.” Two weeks later, they returned to the hospital to start dialysis. In total, the Bahrs As far as Blake and the Bahrs, life as never been better. Gone are the days of Blake spent two and a half months in the hospital to work Blake up to a large enough vol- throwing up 10-to-15 times a day and being incredibly lethargic. ume so they could eventually use a home dialysis machine for 16 hours a day. Dur“Blake is doing absolutely amazing,” Heather Bahr said. “Since Laurie donated ing this time Blake contracted a respiratory virus that landed him in the hospital’s her kidney to him a year ago our family has completely avoided hospitalizations. Pediatric Intensive Care Unit for 10 days. It was during this PICU stay Blake was Before the transplant, Blake was on a feeding tube 18 hours every day and hooked tested by genetic doctors who discovered the baby had two, rare genetic conditions, up to dialysis for 13 hours every night to survive. Now he is completely tube free. Jacobson Syndrome and Overgrowth Syndrome. He wasn't able to take a bath while he had a dialysis catheter so his first bath was at During his first year of life, Blake spent 135 days in the hospital, faced five sur- 14 months old and now he loves it. Blake eats and drinks everything in sight and it's geries and spent over a year on peritoneal dialysis anywhere from 13 to 24 hours a true miracle to watch.” every day. Heather Bahr said the majority of children with his condition remain on feeding Heather and Nick started thinking about the mounting expenses the family tubes for life to keep up with the high fluid requirements for their new kidney, but had encountered to date and would continue to encounter due to Blake’s inevi- not Blake. Last week he also started walking completely on his own. Prior to transtable kidney transplant. It was during this time that the family began to research plant, he was not mobile at all. Blake has had physical therapy three times a week the Children’s Organ Transplant Association (COTA). There were many family since he was born and his therapists are blown away. He no longer needs a walker or members, church friends, work colleagues and neighbors who were very anxious canes for support. He has so much more energy and is just a different kid all around. to find something they could do to help. Early on in Blake’s transplant journey, “Every day we’re excited to wake up and see what is next for Blake because of LauHeather used a Facebook page called “Brave Blake’s Battle” to regularly share rie's life-saving gift to him,” Heather added. “We are beyond blessed to have Laurie updates about Blake’s health as they waited for ‘the call’ that a kidney had been as part of our son. She saved his life and there will never be a day that goes by that found. Brave Blake’s Battle Facebook effort grew exponentially and had followers we don't thank God for bringing her into our lives. Our families have become so from all over the world. close through this journey and I know that will continue as Blake grows up. He loves An unexpected hero looking at pictures of Laurie and watching videos of them together. They will have One of those followers was Laurie Jansen of Warrenton. One night, Jansen was a very special lifelong bond.” having a tough time sleeping so she pulled out her iPad and was drawn to the Brave For more information about the Children’s Organ Transplant Association Blake’s Battle Facebook page. Jansen reached out to Heather and offered to become (COTA), or to find a COTA family in your area, please email kim@cota.org. a living kidney donor. Blake's story hit home with Jansen. In 1997, Jansen’s mother received a kidney from a deceased donor and did very well post-transplant. Seventeen years after that transplant, Laurie’s mother needed a second kidney and Laurie wanted to be her mom’s donor. However, her mom passed away unexpectedly due to complications from End Stage Renal Disease (which is the same disease Blake has) but the idea of being a kidney donor stuck with Laurie. After months of testing, Laurie turned out to be a perfect match for Blake and the transplant occurred on Jan. 18, 2016. “My family was scared and nervous but very supportive,” Jansen said. “They knew that this was very important to me. You see a lot of stories like this (on Facebook) and my heart goes out to them. I knew this was something I could do.” Obviously, the two families became close and once they got to know each other, found an odd coincidence. Heather Bahr grew up in St. Charles and in fifth grade moved to Warrenton where she went to the same elementary school where Jansen is now the school nurse. A happy, healthy ending Fast forward to 2017 and all parties are doing more than fine. “I feel great,” Jansen said. “You never would have known I had surgery. A couple weeks after it I was back at work.” Quick to shun the spotlight and attention, Jansen said the focus of this story should be Blake and others like him and the importance of organ donation. “Aside from the testing, it was about two weeks out of my life to www.VillaAtRiverwood.com be able to change this little boy's life forever,” she said. “To see the drastic changes in Blake, it was a no-brainer. Nothing (physically)

10

Sports

January 25, 2017 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

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www.seniorshelpingseniors.com/stlouiscentral

Sports you see with Gary B... Wanted: baseball players for independent baseball teams The River City Rascals play professional baseball in the independent Frontier League in O’Fallon at CarShield Field. The annual Frontier League Tryout Camp and Draft will be held on April 24 and April 25 at GCS Ballpark in Sauget, Illinois, home of the cross-town rivals Gateway Grizzlies. All 12 Frontier League teams will be represented at the workouts and scouts from multiple Major League Baseball teams also attend. The workouts officially begin at 9 a.m. on April 24 and will feature: • 60-yard dash • fielding and throwing drills for infielders, outfielders, and catchers • batting practice for position players • pitchers will throw 15-20 pitches Following the first day the field managers will post a list of players invited back for inter-squad games on April 25. At the conclusion of the games’ action will break for 30 minutes as clubs and prepare for the draft. An average of 40 players each season have been drafted and signed to spring training contracts over the past eight years. To get more details go to www.frontierleague. com * Break out the baseball equipment Wanted: quarterbacks for indoor football Raiders at Family Arena The River City Raiders play Champions Indoor Football League (CIF) at the Family Arena with first home game on March 11. In a recent Facebook post by Lin Hart Jr. Vice President/General Manager, the team is in the process of looking for quarterbacks to fill the position for the upcoming 2017 season. The twelve game season has all Saturday night home games at 7:05 p.m. Contact Lin at 314-507-0468 for more information.

www.dschuster.com

Go to www.IndoorRaiders.com for more details on the team. * Break out the cleats and mouth guard Students excel in the classroom and on the field at Lindenwood The Lindenwood University student-athletes had their best semester in department history this past fall. As they return to the classrooms for the upcoming start of the 2017 spring semester at Lindenwood, the group has a tall order to repeat. The NCAA student-athletes look to repeat their academic accomplishment. Lindenwood student-athletes had a 3.34 overall GPA for the fall semester. Over 100 studentathletes had a perfect 4.00 GPA, 287 had a GPA of 3.5 or higher, and 453 student-athletes had a GPA of 3.0 or higher. The women’s golf and women’s volleyball teams both had a 3.80 team GPA, the highest overall in the athletic department. Golf had the highest GPA on the men’s side with a 3.57 mark. Sixteen Lindenwood student-athletes completed their undergraduate degrees in December. Half of those players came from the football team, two were baseball players, and one each were from the men’s track and field, women’s track and field, men’s golf, men’s tennis, field hockey, and women’s basketball teams. For more information, go to www.LindenwoodLions.com *Thanks to Andrew P. Morris of Lindenwood Sports Information for the information I will be broadcasting the “STL Health and Wellness LIVE” show every Saturday from 9-11 am on 590 The Fan and 590TheFan.com Gary Baute, a St. Louis native, has hosted many radio shows from Health to Sports to Baby Boomer news. He was the EMCEE of the River City Rascals and St. Louis Swarm basketball team inaugural seasons and broadcasting for the indoor football teams over a decade. Has been writing sports since 1999 for the paper.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • January 25, 2017

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.

See solution on page 13

Learn & Play

11

Recipe: A blended take on family favorites It’s not always easy to create meals that are vegetables and nutty grains, beans and pulses, and both nutritious and satisfying. Managing intake top with a simple vinaigrette or squeeze of citrus. For lightened-up versions of classics such as of added sugar and saturated fat takes effort and planning, but transforming your favorite recipes burgers and meatballs, try adopting a culinary into more nutritious family meals can be simpler technique known as “The Blend.” Simply chop any than you imagined. mushroom variety to match the consistency of The nutrient-dense mushroom masterfully ground meat, blend the mushrooms into the meat bridges that divide, offering rich and meaty flavor and cook the mushroom-meat blend to complete while still being fat-free, low-calorie and low- the recipe. Substituting at least 25 percent of the sodium. All mushrooms contain vitamin D at meat for mushrooms can enhance the taste of various levels, which helps build strong bones. your favorite meaty meals, deliver an extra serving Additionally, mushrooms are a source of B of nutrient-rich vegetables and trim calorie and fat vitamins, including riboflavin and niacin, which intake. help provide energy by breaking down proteins, For additional mushroom recipes that fats and carbohydrates. incorporate the blending technique, visit “Mushrooms are an incredibly versatile mushroominfo.com. ingredient,” said Mary Jo Feeney, MS, RDN, nutrition research consultant for the Mushroom Mighty Mushroom Blended Burger Council. “They can be the Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4 meaty star of a vegetarian dish or a nutritious complement to burgers and other hearty recipes.” For a healthy weekday lunch, consider building a salad bowl around the earthy mushroom. Pair roasted or marinated mushrooms with crunchy

Crossword Puzzle – Theme: Super Bowl ACROSS 1. Chewing noise 6. Unit of work or energy 9. Alternative to knit stitch 13. Flu symptom 14. “We will, we will rock ___” 15. The color of some old photos 16. Crème de la ____ 17. Pilot’s estimate 18. Often-missed humor 19. *Team that’s never been in Super Bowl 21. *Team with most appearances but no wins 23. Articulate 24. *Washington’s Super Bowl MVP, ____ Rypien 25. Protestant denom. 28. Uncontrollable anger 30. Lung pouch 35. a.k.a. The Islamic State 37. Tibetan monk 39. “Semper Fidelis” to U.S. Marines, e.g. 40. *Pittsburgh’s Super Bowl MVP, ____ Swann 41. Jerry Maguire, e.g. 43. “For” in Spanish 44. Reduce pressure 46. Those not in favor 47. Larger-than-life 48. Seabiscuit’s house 50. Big top 52. “Fat chance!” 53. “The Sun ____ Rises” 55. Horse poker 57. *Companies pay big for it on Super Bowl night 61. *One of 4 teams with no appearances 64. Sad face 65. Girls’ night out, in text 67. Shipping box 69. R2-D2, e.g. 70. Container for ashes 71. Remove location from IMap 72. Singles 73. Bird-to-be 74. Boris Godunov and Nicholas Romanov DOWN 1. Chlorofluorocarbon 2. *____ Adderley, appeared in 4 of first 6 Super Bowls 3. Last word on walkie-talkie 4. Advisories or reminders 5. Antebellum 6. Windows to the soul?

Ingredients: 1/2 pound any variety mushroom 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided 1 pound ground beef 1/2 teaspoon salt 4 buns

Remove from heat and cool 5 minutes. Transfer cooled mushrooms to medium bowl. Add ground beef and salt, mixing until combined. Make four patties.

Directions: Finely dice mushrooms or gently pulse in food processor.

Add remaining olive oil to pan and cook burger patties on medium-high heat until internal temperature reaches at least 160 F. Plate and add desired toppings to bun.

In skillet, warm 1 tablespoon olive oil on medium-high heat and add mushrooms, cooking 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown.

Recommended toppings include: pickled red peppers, crumbled blue cheese and watercress greens.

Roasted Mushroom and Wheat Berry Salad with Orange Curry Vinaigrette Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

7. Decompose 8. Exotic jelly flavor 9. ____wig or ____winkle 10. Second word in a fairytale? 11. *”The ____ is the thing” 12. Big name in chips 15. Former Himalayan kingdom 20. African antelope 22. Part of investment portfolio, acr. 24. Reminder of past 25. *Suffered 4 consecutive Super Bowl losses 26. Heretofore 27. Santa Maria’s companion 29. *She’s a Lady 31. Tug-of-War prop 32. Locker room infection? 33. Courtyards 34. *Vince Lombardi, e.g. 36. Give the cold shoulder

38. Casino chip 42. Hint of color 45. Lamentation 49. Freddy Krueger’s street 51. Popular political promise 54. Smooth transition 56. Mends a sock 57. ‘70s hairdo 58. European “curtain” 59. Justice’s garb 60. Deuces 61. Chinatown gang 62. Wine country 63. Recipe command 66. *____ Stadium in Houston 68. Lt.’s subordinate See answers on page 13

I ngredients: 8 ounces white button mushrooms, halved 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil 1/2 teaspoon finely ground sea salt 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper 2 cups cooked wheat berries, warm 2 green onions, sliced 2 tablespoons dried cranberries, chopped Dressing: 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice 1 teaspoon curry powder 1/4 teaspoon finely ground sea salt

Directions: Heat oven to 400 F. Place mushrooms on baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss to coat. Bake 10 minutes. Carefully stir mushrooms and bake 5 more minutes, until tender. Transfer mushrooms to medium bowl. Add wheat berries, green onions and cranberries. In small bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients. Pour dressing over salad. Toss to mix all ingredients. Serve warm.

12

What’s Happening

January 25, 2017 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Send your event to editor@mycnews.com and we'll print it! EVENTS Jan. 25: Karaoke

Karaoke at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information call 314-831-6121.

Jan. 25: Book signing

Dale Wiley, author of “The Intern and Sabotage,” is hosting a book signing to promote the launch of his newest thriller “Southern Gothic.” The event will take place from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Barnes and Noble in the West County Mall, located at West County Center at 113 W County Center in Des. For more information please call 314-835-9980.

Jan. 27: Chicken dinner

Chicken dinner at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 3 to 7 p.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information call 314-831-6121.

Jan. 28: Health fair

V4A Health Fair takes place at Christ Covenant Church at 3465 Shackelford from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Free screenings, Mercy StL Mammography, diabetes, cholesterol, dental, vision and more.

Jan. 31: Heath insurance enrollment help

The open enrollment period for the Missouri Health Insurance Marketplace began on Nov. 1, 2016 and lasts until Jan. 31, 2017. Vitendo4africa in Partnership with Bilingual International Assistant Services are helping people to sign up for the Affordable Care Act. Call 314-645-7800 or 314252-0488 to schedule an appointment today. To help bilingual Missourians understand their options for affordable health care and successfully enroll in the marketplace, make an appointment with a trained bilingual assister (navigator) who is fluent in the following languages: Bosnian, Spanish, Swahili, Vietnamese, Russian, Korean, Mandarin Chinese, Albanian, Dari/ Farsi, Arabic, French, etc. You can also come into the office on Tuesdays from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. at 7220 N. Lindbergh Blvd. in Hazelwood.

Jan. 31: Scholarship application deadline

The Florissant Rotary Club and Rotary District 6060 are seeking Ambassadorial Scholars for the 2017-2018 academic year. The purpose of the Ambassadorial Scholarship Program is to

further international understanding and peaceful relations among people of different races, nationalities, ethnicities and religions while pursuing a program of higher education either here or abroad. Two different kinds of Rotary District Scholarships are available: The District Scholarship is available in any field, but preference is given to study in a humanitarian field. Applicants must have earned their bachelor degree prior to applying and $25,000 is available to pay for tuition, fees, room and board and transportation. Global Scholarships are available only to applicants whose field of study is in one of six focus areas: peace and conflict resolution, disease prevention and treatment, water and sanitation, maternal and child health care, basic education and literacy, economic and community development. These scholarships provide $30,000 for tuition, fees, room and board and transportation. The deadline for applications is Jan. 31 and must be submitted to Richard Dorsey, President, Florissant Rotary Club, 1650 Shackelford Rd. #1188, Florissant, MO 63031. Applications and additional information may be found at www.rotary6060.org and then by clicking on Foundation Programs, then Educational Programs, then Rotary Ambassadorial Scholarships. Normally, no more than one District Scholarship Award and/or one Global Scholarship are awarded each year.

Jan. 31: Choral rehearsals

Love to sing? New singers are welcome to join. Auditions are not required. Choral Arts Singers begin weekly rehearsals on Jan. 9 at 7 p.m. Please stop by rehearsal and consider joining. Rehearsal is located at Transfiguration Episcopal Church at 1860 Lake Saint Louis Blvd. in Lake St. Louis. Concerts are being planned with local high schools to be presented in late April or early May.

Feb. 1: Karaoke

Karaoke at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information contact 314-831-6121.

Feb. 2: Open house

North County Christian School, located at 845 Dunn Rd. in Florissant, invites you to attend an open house for prospective students and their families at 7 p.m. The open house will provide an opportunity to meet and interact with teachers, administrators and stu-

Business Spotlight A place to find out a little more about your local businesses!

dents, as well as tour campus. NCCS is currently enrolling students from preschool age three through 12th grades for the 2017-2018 school year. To enroll or obtain more information about NCCS, please attend the open house or contact Wayne Moss at 314-972-6227 Ext. 105, w.moss@nccsmo.org.

Feb. 10: Chicken fried steak or meatloaf dinner

Feb. 3: Steak fry

Feb. 11: Flea market

Steak fry at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information contact 314-831-6121.

Feb. 4: Trivia night

Boy Scout Troop 884 trivia night takes place at Trinity Church of the Nazarene at 3515 Shackleford Rd. Doors open at 6 p.m., trivia starts promptly at 7 p.m. Cost is $120 a table for eight people or $15 per person. Snacks and drinks provided, no alcohol permitted. Bring extra cash for special games, mulligans, silent auction gift baskets and attendance prizes. Contact Tina Thomas to reserve your table today at 314-740-7607.

Feb. 8: Karaoke

Karaoke at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information contact 314-831-6121.

Feb. 9: Fundraising event

Saint Louis Crisis Nursery invites you to Eat. Shop. Love. from 5 to 7 p.m. at Plaza Frontenac’s North Court outside of Saks Fifth Avenue. Kicking off the event will be Honorary Chair, Y98’s Sherry Farmer. The event is free and benefits Crisis Nursery mothers. Guests are invited to donate new or gently used handbags, and guests are asked to fill them with lotions, sanitizers, toiletries, gas cards and other items our mothers may not be able to afford. New this year, they will be collecting jewelry and accessories… necklaces, bracelets, sunglasses and scarves. Last year over 300 purses were collected, all of which were shared throughout the year with moms who are working so hard to create long-term stability for their children. As a bonus, each purse donated enters you to win a new Kate Spade bag (valued at over $200). You must be present to win raffle items. There will be discounts at several stores that evening and raffle drawings every 30 minutes and complimentary appetizers by BRIO. For more information and to RSVP, please visit www. crisisnurserykids.org.

Chicken fried steak or meatloaf dinner at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information contact 314-831-6121. Flea market at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. To reserve a table or info contact the post at 314-8316121.

Feb. 11: Breakfast

Breakfast at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 8 to 10 a.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information contact 314-831-6121.

Feb. 13: Bake sale

Bridgeton seniors are having a bake sale from 9 a.m. till sold out at 4201 Fee Fee Rd. For more information call 314-739-5572.

Feb. 15: Karaoke

Karaoke at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information contact 314-831-6121.

Feb. 17: Pork steak dinner

Pork steak dinner at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information contact 314-8316121.

Feb. 20: Free skate session

The city of Florissant is hosting a free skate session for its residents from 2 – 4 p.m. If you have always wanted to skate or if you are a regular, this is the perfect opportunity to get out on the ice. Come with your friends or family. Non-residents are welcome to participate by paying the non-resident rate. Remember to bring your current Florissant resident card to get in for free. There will be free popcorn and soda for all in attendance.

Feb. 22: Karaoke

Karaoke at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information contact 314-831-6121.

Feb. 24: Chicken dinner

Chicken dinner at Florissant Val-

ley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information contact 314-8316121.

April 14: Fish Fry

American Legion Post 444 in Florissant Valley will host a fish fry every Friday from Jan. 27 until April 14.

RECURRING EVENTS Weekdays: Food pantry volunteers needed The Harvey Kornblum Jewish Food Pantry is in need of ongoing adult volunteers to sort food, stock shelves and shop with clients. Two-to-four hour shifts are available, Monday-Friday 8:45 a.m.-3:45 p.m. To learn more or to join this fun group, contact Chelsey Banaskavich at 314-513-1674 or cbanaskavich@jfcs-stl.org. Weekdays: Volunteer drivers The St. Louis County Older Resident Programs need volunteer drivers who live in St. Louis County to give a few hours during the day to provide transportation to and from doctor’s appointments for our senior residents of St. Louis County that lives near you! No weekends and mileage reimbursement is available. Call today at 314615-4516. Mondays: A cappella singers

All men who like to sing are invited to come sing with us, The Men of Harmony. We practice every Monday night at 7 p.m. at 5500 Parker Road which is the first house on Uthe Lane. We sing four-part harmony a capella (without accompaniment ). We sing some traditional songs, as well as show tunes and more contemporary music. We do perform for the public at various functions. Persons interested can come right on in or for more information call Al at 314-993-6134.

Tuesdays: Choir rehearsals

The St. Louis Chordinals, a women’s a cappella chorus, rehearse every Tuesday evening from 7 - 9:30 p.m. at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church at 12397 Natural Bridge Rd. in Bridgeton (next to the Bridgeton Government Center). For more information call Linda at 314-839-3495 or visit stlouischordinals.org.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • January 25, 2017

The Lung Cancer Networking Group is open to anyone affected by lung cancer and meets at Christian Hospital at 11133 Dunn Rd. every second Tuesday of the month from 6 - 7:30 p.m. in Room 2100. No RSVP required. Christian Hospital has partnered with the Cancer Support Community of Greater St. Louis to provide this group meeting. Drop-in to the monthly meetings to discuss, ask questions and learn how others manager side effects, symptoms and the day-to-day of cancer. Connect with other care partners who are learning about cancer and how it impacts their friends and family members. Share and hear stories from others who “get it.” Discover the power of group support when you meet with a licensed facilitator, other people (family, friends, patients) affected by a cancer diagnosis.

Tuesdays: TOPS (Take off pounds sensibly)

From 9:15 - 10:30 a.m. located at John F. Kennedy Center/Henry Koch Ctr., Howdershell Rd. at Charbonier Rd., Florissant. For more info contact Paul or Connie McConnell, 314-831-5476.

Every 4th Tuesday of the month: Fort Bellefontaine Memorial American Legion Post 335 meeting 6:30pm, Fort Bellefontaine Memorial American Legion Post 335, 800 Chambers Road in Bellefontaine Neighbors. Those interested in membership are invited to attend.

Every Tuesday: Bingo Evening at Florissant Elks Lodge #2316

Doors at 4:30pm, games begin at 6pm, Florissant Elks Lodge #2316, 16400 New Halls Ferry Rd. in Florissant. For more information, call 314.921.2316.

Wednesdays: Are you interested in losing weight?

Check out TOPS #361 Florissant group of supportive ladies. Meetings are on Wednesday mornings beginning at 9:15 am at Florissant Church of Christ, 16460 New Halls Ferry Rd. in Florissant. If interested, please contact Shirley at 314-895-3528 for more information.

Every Wednesday: Bingo Morning at Florissant Elks Lodge #2316

Florissant Elks Lodge #2316, 16400 New Halls Ferry Rd. in Florissant. Doors at 7:30am, games begin at 9:30am. For more information, call 314.921.2316.

Bridgeton Trails Library Branch Programs:

3455 McKelvey Rd., St. Louis, 314.994.3300. Story Time: Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. 9 months to 2 yrs. Room 1 (Lap Time); Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. Ages 3–5. Room 2; Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. Ages 3–5. Room 1.

Florissant Senior Citizens’ Bingo Clubs: 314.839.7604. Every 1st Wednesday of the Month: Stroke Support Group

3-4pm, Center for Senior Renewal, Detrick Building 1st floor, 11133 Dunn Rd. For more information, contact Jamie Stevens at 314.653.5331.

Thursdays: Blood pressure checks

Free blood pressure checks monthly at Life Care Center of Florissant at 1201 Garden Plaza Dr. (off Parker Rd.) in Florissant every third Thursday of the month. Call 831-3752 for more information.

Thursdays: meeting

Women’s

chorus

Every Thursday City Voices Chorus, a women’s chorus singing four-part a cappella harmony, meets at Church of the Good Shepherd at 1166 S. Mason Rd. in St. Louis. Members come from

the entire bi-state region. Call Marcia at 636-274-0723 for more information or visit www.cityvoiceschorus.org.

able and how important physical activity really is. Please call to register at 1.877.477.6954.

Every Friday: Our Lady of Fatima #4429 Knights of Columbus Bingo

Every Monday-Friday: Evening Front Desk Volunteers Needed

6:45pm, Knights of Columbus Hall, 1216 Teson Rd. in Hazelwood. For more information call 314.731.9330

Every 3rd Friday of the month: Bingo

2pm, Life Care Center of Florissant, 1201 Garden Plaza Dr. For more information, call 314.831.3752.

Fridays: Celebrate Recovery

For 25 years Celebrate Recovery has been helping everyday folks find freedom from whatever difficulty you are experiencing in your life. This Christcentered, 12-step program is based on the Beatitudes. We meet every Friday at 6:15 p.m. for dinner ($5); 7 p.m. large group meeting; 8 p.m. Small groups sharing; 9 p.m. dessert at First Christian Church of Florissant at 2890 Patterson Rd. in Florissant. For more information call 314-837-2269 or visit http://www.fccf.org/ or Facebook page Celebrate Recovery-FCCF.

Every Fourth Saturday’s Writer’s Workshop 10 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. at Baden Library, at 8448 Church Rd. For more information call 314-388-2400.

Sundays: Meat shoot

Come and enjoy the meat shoots at American Legion Post 444 located on 17090 Old Jamestown Road between Sinks Rd and Lindbergh starting at noon until dusk every Sunday in February and March in the spring and every Sunday in October through the second-to-last week in November in the fall - rain or shine. Great meat prizes awarded. Sundays: AMVETS meat shoot Sundays in September through April, AMVETS Post 55, located on 8842 Natural Bridge Rd. in Bel-Ridge will be hosting meat shoots with practice beginning at 11 a.m. and rounds starting at noon. Shooters must be 18 or older and will shoot #9’s with no bull barrels or scopes and 675 minimum chokes. The shooting area is indoors and food and drink are available in the club room. For more information, contact 314-630-2671 or 314-330-7269.

Every Sunday: Tours at Old St. Ferdinand Shrine

#1 Rue St. Francois St., Florissant, 1 – 4pm, through October. Donations accepted. Docents needed. 314.921.7582, vicray01@aol.com

Sundays: meeting

Jennings

Do-Dads

The Jennings Do-Dads hold meetings every third Sunday of the month (except June which is the second Sunday and no meeting in December) at 1 p.m. at Classics Bar & Grill at 11601 West Florissant Avenue. Those interested in membership are invited to attend. For more information visit www.jenningsdodads.org.

CHURCH Tuesdays & Thursdays: Chapel of the Cross Lutheran Church GriefShare Support Group

Tuesdays from 2 - 4pm and Thursday from 6:30 - 8:30pm, 11645 Benham Rd., 314.741.3737

HEALTH Every Mon. & Tues.: Healthy Meal Replacement (HMR) Program Orientation

Mondays: 6–7pm Tuesdays: Noon– 1pm SSM DePaul Wellness Center. Attend a free orientation to learn: the Five Success Variables needed to lose weight, different diet options avail-

4-7pm, Christian Hospital, 1225 Graham Rd. in Florissant. For more information, please contact Lee Shields at 314.653.5032.

2nd Tuesday of Every Month: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group Meeting

Meeting to be held at Sarah Care of Bridgeton Adult Day Center 11977 St. Charles Rock Road, Suite 121-124, Bridgeton, MO 63044. Join our Support Group for Mutual, Emotional Support and Education. You are not alone. For information, contact Deborah Mabrie at 314-291-5210 or Ferd Fetsch at 314291-3021 Email: dbland@sarahcare. com ferdfetsch@sbcglobal.net.

Tuesdays: Alcohol and Drug Information Meeting Christian Hospital Building 2, Suite 401, 6:30 – 8pm, 314.839.3171, free and open to the public.

Every third Tuesday of every month: Grief Support Group sponsored by DePaul Hospital

11:30am-1pm, Bridgeton Trails Library, 3455 McKelvey Rd. For more information, call 314.344.6873.

Crisis Nursery:

Committed to preventing child abuse and neglect, the Crisis Nursery provides short-term, safe havens to children, birth through age 12, whose families are faced with an emergency or crisis. Care is available year-round and serves families throughout the greater St. Charles region. 24-hour helpline: 314.768.3201. Or 636.947.0600, www. crisisnurserykids.org

Center for Senior Renewal:

Day treatment programs for older adults dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, loss and early signs of dementia, 314.653.5123.

Nutrition Education:

SSM DePaul registered dieticians can help you make sure your diet is right for you, 314.344.6157.

Christian Hospital Recovery Center: Outpatient mental health and substance abuse treatment for adults, 314.953.8100.

Volunteers Needed at Christian Hospital: Call 314.653.5032 Nicotine Anonymous

Nicotine Anonymous is a 12 Step Program, free and available to all seeking

Look Good…Feel Better

SSM Cancer Care at DePaul Health Center, 12303 DePaul Drive. Radiation OncologyBridgeton. Attend a great makeup session sponsored by the American Cancer Society. A licensed cosmetologist teaches a session of scarf tying, shows a parade of hats, and provides each participant with a makeup kit. Light refreshments are served. Info: 314.344.6090.

SilverSneakers Senior Wellness Program at the Maryland Heights Centre

A fun, energizing program that helps older adults take greater control of their health by encouraging physical activity and offering social events. A Silver Sneakers membership includes access to the city’s Fitness Centre with state-of-the-art fitness equipment and circuit training. Membership is available at little or no cost through your health plan. To find out if you are eligible, visit www.silversneakers.com or call 314.738.2599.

SUDOKU answers from page 11

CROSSWORD answers from page 11

6:30 - 7:30pm, 314.839.3171.

Sundays: Alcoholics Anonymous Group 109

11th floor conference room at Christian Hospital, 10am, 11133 Dunn Road.

Diabetes Basics:

314.344.7024 for info or 314.344.7220 to enroll.

6

Winner of Six Awards

Missouri Press Foundation Better Newspaper Contest

Best Columnist – Humorous First Place – Joe Morice

Honorable Mention – Cindy Moore

Best Education Story First Place – Sara Hardin

Best Magazine/Alternative Publication Second Place – CrossRoads Magazine

Best News/Feature Obituary Third Place – Robert Huneke for Joe Morice Obituary

Best Military Story

Honorable Mention – Sara Hardin

13

recovery from nicotine addiction based on principals of AA. Only requirement is a desire to stop using nicotine. Voluntary contributions are accepted. For further info call 314-822-2066 or visit WWW.Nicotine-Anonymous.org.

Wednesdays: STEPS Schizophrenia Support Group

2016 WINNER

Tuesdays: Lung cancer support group

What’s Happening

14

January 25, 2017 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

FOR SALE

HELP WANTED

NOVENA

SERVICES

PRAYER TO ST. JUDE

PET CEMETERY

May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world, now and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus, Pray for us. St. Jude, Worker of Miracles, Pray for us. St. Jude, Helper of the Hopeless, Pray for us.

over 2,500 pet burials; over 6 acres; over 40 yrs old. 314-576-3030 www.memoryparkpetcemetery.info www.memoryparkpetcemetery.info

Say this prayer 9 times a day for 9 days, then publish. Your prayers will be answered. It has never been known to fail.

P.S. Thank you St. Jude, R.H.

HELP WANTED

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facebook.com/mycnews OBITUARY

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www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • January 25, 2017

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Our FREE publications are available in over 700 convenient locations, including every Dierbergs, Schnucks and Shop ’N Save.

16

January 25, 2017 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Movie

By Steve Bryan

‘A Dog’s Purpose’ under fire for animal cruelty For decades, the “No Animals Were Harmed in the Making of This Film” tag during a movie’s credits has been a source of comfort for animal lovers. It means that an American Humane Association (AHA) representative was on set to make sure no creatures were injured or killed during production. Any incidents would be reported and swiftly handled by AHA. Reportedly, AHA monitoring came about after Jerry Lewis’ disastrous 1981 film “Hardly Working.” Lewis’ return to the big screen featured a scene where hundreds of rabbits fell out of a mail truck onto hot asphalt. Rumors coming from the set indicated that many bunnies were trampled or hurt during that climactic scene. “A Dog’s Purpose,” a feel-good family film set to open on Friday, recently came under fire for animal abuse. TMZ obtained a video showing Hercules, a German Shepherd, refusing to jump into some fast-moving water. The footage, available online, shows a handler shoving him into the water against his will while crew members laugh. Star Josh Gad and director Lasse Hallstrom each came out with statements saying they were shocked because they did not witness this act of cruelty. Amblin Entertainment also issued a statement saying Hercules was not forced to do anything, but the video paints a pretty damaging picture. PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) has called for a boycott of the film. So are the AHA watchdogs falling asleep on the job? Their job involves monitoring and reporting any inhumane treatment of working animals. The Hollywood Reporter (THR) did

an investigation a few years about the seemingly lackadaisical attitude of the AHA employees. On the set of “The Life of Pi,” for instance, a Bengal tiger named King almost drowned on set. THR’s piece features a quote from Gina Johnson, the AHA monitor during the shoot, mentioning the incident and her attempts to downplay it. Much of the film was done with computer graphics, but there were scenes where the director needed a live animal interacting with a human actor. So why can’t CGI be used in place of real creatures? Andy Serkis does a heck of job in the “Planet of the Apes” movies, playing the leader of a simian culture thanks to computer graphics. Human actors, especially stunt people, knowingly work on dangerous movies, but they make a conscious decision to do so. Animals rely on their handlers to keep them safe. Will a boycott of “A Dog’s Purpose” do any good? The Twitterverse currently is up in arms over the incident, but things like this have been going on for years. Perhaps this footage may lead to some real changes for the performers who can’t speak for themselves.

www.cedarhurstliving.com

“A Dog’s Purpose’ photos courtesy of Universal Pictures Born and raised in South St. Louis, Steve Bryan is now based in Anaheim, California, and has been allowed access to movie and television sets to see actors and directors at work. Though his writing has taken him far from St. Louis, Steve is, at heart, still the same wide-eyed kid who spent countless hours watching classic movies at neighborhood theaters.

www.fatlossstl.com