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November 16, 2016

An invisible population Learn & Play

Give thanks for the slow cooker

Community Voices

By Odie Smith

Photo courtesy Bigstock

Elder orphans an increasingly growing segment of our society By Nicholas Elmes The holidays are just around the corner, and for many people that means making plans to visit loved ones, trips to grandma’s house, and maybe even making a donation to help children who have been orphaned. But a growing population of people in the St. Louis area have no loved ones to spend the holidays with, no children or grandchildren to come visit for a holiday meal, and are just as alone as the orphans we love to love to buy Christmas presents for. This segment of the population are known as elder orphans, seniors who have no children or spouses who are living the golden years of their lives alone. In St. Louis 41 percent of seniors are living alone according to the U.S. Census. “These people have no one to help provide personal care or support or to help them stay social or active,” said Carol Marak, the editor of SeniorCare.com who is working to raise awareness of this growing segment of the population. She said the number of elder orphans across the country grows every year as more and more Baby Boomers age into their senior years. “So many Boomers are divorced, and the Boomers are the largest child-free segment of the population.” She said facing your senior years alone presents a variety of issues. “The primary issue is social isolation,” she said. “So many of us live alone and in

the suburbs. When we lose our driving capabilities then we have the tendency to stay at home alone. That can develop into depression which can lead to all sorts of issues.” “Affordable housing is another concern,” she added. “Housing is very expensive and if you live alone you are having to pay all the same types of bills as two married people would.” She said that is particularly hard on elderly people if they are living primarily on Social Security benefits. Census data shows that the median household income for St. Louis seniors is only $25,029 a year, with the average Social Security income in the area coming in at $13,964 annually. Marak said some seniors face this issue by looking at other ways of sharing living costs. “Some look at opening their homes to renters, or shared housing,” she said. “Another option is co-housing where you buy a home together. Some cities are working to create more affordable housing for seniors.” But Marak said the most important issue for elder orphans is raising awareness that this segment of the population is out there. “Many people are not aware that we exist,” she said. “If you go to church with your family, start noticing who is attending and start engaging with that person. Just start becoming aware of the elderly

people in the community. They probably have no one to count on for help if they are living alone.” Marak said there are some organizations like the Agency for Aging which helps provide services for senior orphans, but noted that she is using social media to help senior orphans connect with each other. “I have a Facebook group of elder orphans (https://www.facebook.com/ groups/elderorphans/),” she said. “We give each other a lot of support and answers. I am amazed at how useful it has See INVISIBLE page 2

Moore On Life

School

Cereal offender

‘Giraffe Hero’

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Around Town Vol. 95 No. 46

In This Issue... Town 3 Around National and local partners to open new park in Wellston for community to enjoy and more.

Section 7 Special Holiday Shopping Guide

8 School Normandy High scholars

inducted into international college honor society and more.

10 Sports Local sports with Gary B. & Play 11 Learn Featuring recipe and crossword.

12 14 Classifieds 16 Movie Voting the cinematic party. What’s Happening

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November 16, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

INVISIBLE from cover

St. Louis icon passes away

become.” She gave the example of a woman who recently posted that she was getting ready to have knee surgery. “She lives alone and was asking for help,” said Marak. “People who had had the same surgery walked her through what to expect and how to prepare for it.” Marak said elder orphans in some cities are also using Meet Up to connect with other senior citizens. “It is a chance for them to meet in a public place during daylight hours and get to know each other,” she said.

By Gary Baute A legend in his time in St. Louis, a true American and great Cardinal fan passed on Oct. 21. Paul Pagano, aka “Father Time,” was 93 years young and died quietly in his sleep. Over the years, you’ve seen him at numerous fairs, parades, Cardinal games and all over St. Louis! He’s had features on TV, radio, newspapers and you may have seen him years ago driving his truck all decked out with the American flag. He would stand at the corner of Ashby and St. Charles Rock road just waving to everyone wearing his American outfit. Pagano was also a veteran of “D” Day in WWII.

Submitted photo Paul Pagano (left), aka “Father Time,” is pictured with his son John Pagano.

COMMUNITY VOICES

Surviving unemployment during the holiday season By Odie Smith Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas, Happy Kwanza, Season’s Greetings, Happy Hanukah, or Happy Holidays, whatever your pleasure, the holiday season is upon us. However, you can survive unemployment during the holidays. The holidays are a time of celebration, festivities and the gathering of loved ones, yet for millions of unemployed Americans it is a time to clarify and redefine their survival direction. Many of the unemployed may ask the question “should I suspend my job search until after the holidays?” The answer is “NO.” Just because it is near the end of the year does not mean that it is the end of your employment search for the year. There are numerous companies looking for seasonal workers to meet increased business demands. Look at it this way, your bills and creditors do not suspend near the end of the year and the holiday season, therefore neither should you suspend your employment search. Here is a list of three important things to do if you are surviving unemployment

during the holiday season: 1. Seek employers that are hiring seasonal workers; who knows, you just might get a job offer for a permanent position if you impress the employer. Moreover, seasonal work is not just for teens and college students, but it is ideal for parents and adults seeking part-time employment. 2. Keep your resumes current and compose them to reflect each employer and the position for which you apply. It would be beneficial to compose a resume for blue-collar jobs (usually considered physical labor) and white-collar jobs (usually considered office-type work) because each job type requires different skills. If creating a custom resume is challenging, seek out a local professional resume writer whose fee is in within your budget. 3. Explore and create job search accounts from the many internet jobrecruiting sites such as www.mynubeginnings.com, Careerbuilder.com, RetirementJobs.com and Indeed.com. These and other similar sites are usually

free to use. They also provide a comprehensive list of job opportunities, which may fit your profile. You can also receive email notifications when an employer has reviewed your resume and when a job opportunity matches your profile. Surviving unemployment, during the holiday season and beyond summed up in three words – “never give up.” Odie Smith is the Executive Director and Founder of Nu Beginnings Employment Organizers, a 501(c)3 employment ministry. In 2011 Odie and his wife Daval established Nu Beginnings Employment Organizers, an organization working with individuals in Missouri, Illinois and other communities in the United States by offering employment assistance and professional career guidance. 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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www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • November 16, 2016

Around Town

Farmers Insurance launches campaign to help provide suits for transitioning veterans to the civilian workforce Farmers Insurance, an organization with a longstanding commitment to helping the military that was founded by two World War I veterans, has announced the launch of its nationwide Suits for Soldiers program to help active duty military personnel transition to civilian work and life. Through Nov. 30, Americans across the country can support veterans transitioning into the civilian workforce by donating gently used and dry cleaned suits or professional attire for men and women at more than

13,000 Farmers agencies. “Suits for Soldiers is representative of our organization’s commitment to veterans,” said Jeff Dailey, CEO of Farmers Insurance. “We believe in the value veterans can bring to the workplace through their experience and training, as well as their values.” More than one million military personnel will be making the transition from the military in the next couple of years, according to the Department of Defense office of Employer Support of the Guard and

Reserve, and many of these veterans may not own appropriate business attire to go to networking events, interviews or even to work. Each piece of clothing donated brings Suits for Soldiers closer to its goal of collecting 50,000 suits that can help create an easier transition for veterans into the civilian workforce. Visit www.agents.farmers.com to find your nearest agent. For additional resources to aid in the transition to the civilian workforce visit www.farmers.com/ careers/veterans-resources/.

National and local partners to open new park in Wellston for community to enjoy

www.florissantmo.com Photo courtesy Great Rivers Greenway New playground equipment is just part of the new Trojan Park located at 6150 Etzel Avenue in Wellston and lies along the St. Vincent Greenway.

On Oct. 8 Great Rivers Greenway, the city of Wellston, the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), St. Louis County Parks and Recreation Department, Beyond Housing and the Municipal Park Grant Commission of St. Louis County celebrated the transformation of a vacant lot at the corner of Etzel and Skinker into a vibrant community park. The new Trojan Park is located at 6150 Etzel Avenue and lies along the St. Vincent Greenway. Named after the mascot of Wellston’s former Eskridge High School, Trojan Park has been designed by and for Wellston residents as a space for the community to gather and play. “The city of Wellston is thrilled to establish this new park,” said Mayor Nathaniel Griffin. “We want to do everything we can to give kids a great place to play and our whole community a space to come together.” The new one-acre park includes a family pavilion, splash plaza, butterfly gardens, three playgrounds, benches and full-size basketball and volleyball courts. It also features fitness and creative play equipment for all ages, including options for different generations to spend time together. The park was developed as part of NRPA’s 2016 Parks Build Community Initiative, which aims to demonstrate the transformative value of parks and recreation on communities across the country. Each year, NRPA builds a new park or revitalizes an existing park in partnership with recreational equipment manufacturers and community organizations within the region hosting its annual conference. Trojan Park represents the sixth Parks Build Community project aligned with the NRPA Annual Conference. “With St. Louis serving as the host region for the 2016 NRPA Conference, it’s a great opportunity to bring this park, which will serve both the city of St. Louis and Wellston, to life on the St. Vincent Greenway,” said Megan Riechmann, Great Rivers Greenway Project Manager. “Our project team has enjoyed working with area residents and leaders to build this new park for the community to enjoy for years to come.”

Trojan Park lies within the larger St. Vincent Greenway – a seven-mile corridor that will stretch from the North Hanley MetroLink Station, near the University of Missouri-St. Louis campus, all the way to Forest Park. The new park is an important component of the greenway’s master plan, serving as one of several community gathering spaces that also connect people to the greenway. Since 2014, Great Rivers Greenway has been working closely with community development organization Beyond Housing and the residents of Wellston and Pagedale on the plans to expand the St. Vincent Greenway through their communities. These residents also played a key role in designing Trojan Park. “The community feedback has been positive and enthusiastic. They have taken immediate ownership of the project; greatly influencing the design and function of the space,” says Chris Krehmeyer, President and CEO of Beyond Housing. “It will be wonderful to see Trojan Park filled with people playing, exercising or just spending time outside with their friends, families and neighbors.” Trojan Park was built with the support of many partners and sponsors. Great Rivers Greenway has collaborated with nonprofit partner Beyond Housing to engage the community, gathering critical input to form the park’s design. The Municipal Park Grant Commission of St. Louis County provided a $315,000 grant to assist with site preparation and construction. Great Rivers Greenway secured the property, invested in the design and site preparation and has served as project manager. NRPA worked with playground equipment and park amenity manufacturers from across the country to receive donated site furnishings such as playground and fitness equipment, bike racks, lighting, drinking fountains and much more. Great Rivers Greenway has also worked closely with the city of Wellston and the St. Louis County Parks Department to develop a detailed maintenance plan for Trojan Park they will implement together.

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Around Town

November 16, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Community donors provide large trailer for marching band The Pride of Pattonville marching band has a new ride. The band now has a new trailer to transport its equipment - a gift made possible by the kindness of the Pattonville community. While the trailer was donated by Steve and Sandy Ellison of Ellison Real Estate Holdings, two local businesses are official charter sponsors of the trailer: Serra’s Pizzeria and Shamel Auto and Tire. To recognize them for their sponsorship, both businesses have their names printed on the trailer. Serra’s contributed a financial donation and Shamel’s owner, Richard Shamel, not only helped guide the band throughout the donation process but has also volunteered to store the trailer at his store. As a special recognition to those sponsors, the owners of both businesses were invited to the unveiling of the trailer and a special ceremony before the homecoming game on Sept. 23. Attending the event were the Serra family from Serra’s Pizzeria and Richard and Kim Shamel from Shamel Auto and Tire. Band director Denny McFarland led the ceremony and recognized the Serra and Shamel families for their dedicated support of the band. The charter sponsors were presented with Pride of Pattonville shirts along with

Photo courtesy Pattonville School District The Pattonville High School marching band stands in front of the new band trailer along with the band charter sponsors who helped purchase the trailer.

personalized plaques to hang in their businesses. At the conclusion of the ceremony, the marching band played a mini concert, performing the school fight song. In addition to the ceremony and recognitions, the two charter sponsors also received VIP stadium chairs and lifetime passes to all varsity sporting events and the fall play and spring musicals. The two sponsors will also be treated to a one-hour performance by the marching band at an event of their choosing. There are four sponsorship levels. The highest, reserved for Serra’s Pizzeria and Shamel Auto and Tire, is the charter sponsorship. The other three are platinum director, gold drum major and silver section leader. In addition to other donors who asked to remain anonymous, additional sponsorships were received from Collier’s Funeral Home, Pat Dewitt, Jean Goetz, Glen and Carolyn Gotta, Donald Kaufman, Doug Kaufman, Jim Moll with Coldwell Banker Gundaker and Gary Nelson. The

design for the trailer was donated by Mike Engelhardt, a graphic artist. Every sponsor will have their name printed in all of the band’s programs. For those interested in donating in the future, please send an email to phsbandtrailer@ gmail.com. All donations are tax deductible. The efforts to get the new trailer was spear-headed by Pattonville senior Eddie Ellis. He brainstormed the idea and contacted trailer donor Ellison, which started the entire donation process. “Along with the practicality of this trailer, there’s an additional sense of pride for everyone involved with our band program and our school,” McFarland said. “Along with the huge enrollment in our band program (nearly 200 this school year), the quality of our students’ performances has elevated to very respectable levels. It was exciting to see our students perk up when they saw this trailer for the first time. After many years of arriving in the parking lot of a band event and seeing other schools utilizing trailers like this, it was rewarding to see the confidence it instilled in them to be ‘one of those bands.’

A Few Thoughts…

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The customer as guest By Tina Robinson Hospitality: the friendly and generous reception and entertainment of guests, visitors or strangers. When you throw a party or host a meal at your home you pull out all the stops to ensure that your guests have a pleasant experience. You want them to feel welcome, well-fed and wonderful. You cook and clean for days, set out the best towels, light some candles and make sure the welcome mat is in place. When they arrive you are always at the ready to make sure your guests are happy and harmonious. When I go to a store or to a restaurant, I am a guest. I assume that the place of business is clean, well-stocked, well prepared, manned with friendly employees and ready to receive me. I anticipate a pleasant experience as I wander the aisles or peruse the menu. I also expect that any problem will be handled quickly and efficiently by my “hosts.” The steak isn’t cooked well? We will fix it. There is a spill in the condiment aisle? We will fix it. But the fixing part seems to end when the problem involves other guests. You may remember the video of an altercation between a woman and a young man with a small child in his cart. They were in the checkout line at a large superstore. The woman was in line behind the young man and began berating him for his use of food stamps (EBT). He tried to put her off quietly, but she would not let up until the interchange had escalated to foul language which became a problem for not only the young son, but also for other guests. The clerk checking the items appeared to do nothing. She just let it continue. Now if this had happened at your party, it’s doubtful if you would “go quiet” and let the chips fall where they may. You would step in and “fix it,” not only for the comfort of the other guests, but also for the guest being hassled. Your thinking would be that the mistreatment of guests will not be happening in my home. But apparently this was not the thinking of the large store. Either the clerk was not educated as to how to proceed in a situation like this or she had no magic “call the manager” button. However, some-

thing should have been done rather than just let this play out to the discomfort of everyone involved. (In all fairness, I did write the company and they were already in the process of addressing this issue.) Let’s say you are at a restaurant looking forward to a delicious meal. Two tables over there is a family that decides to have a major verbal battle at the table. Apparently they do not know that these kinds of discussions should be reserved for home. Voices are raised. Profanity is used. You are now uncomfortable and beginning to wonder if you are on an episode of “What Would You Do?” expecting to see John Quinones pop out of nowhere. However, the restaurant employees and managers do nothing. They timidly approach the table and ask if they need anything. Yes! They need to be asked to quiet down or leave! In the meantime, your meal is ruined by the antagonistic and foul verbiage and the onslaught of personal information you shouldn’t be privy to. But unless you get up and leave, no one will be leaving. The restaurant would rather see four tables of uncomfortable guests than address one table that is causing the ruckus. Losing these guests is losing only trouble. This isn’t a good way to treat the other guests in your “home”. Places of business need to risk adopting a “not in my home you don’t” motto and losing the “customer is always right” rule. Because the truth is, they aren’t. Tina Robinson is a wife, a mom, a mom-in-law, and a grand mom. A California native, she now has her roots planted deep in Missouri soil. When she isn’t reading or writing, she is organizing something. Give her a cup of black coffee and a good conversation about faith and she’s in clover. 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 • November 16, 2016

Community Toons

Around Town

John Hanna

John Hanna is a part time, amateur cartoonist taking his first step into the world of print and online comic media. When he isn’t drawing or working at his second job, he can be seen in and around the St Charles area. If you like his work, that is good. If you don’t like it, that is good too.

Moore On Life

By Cindy Moore

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Cereal offender My husband and I never fight. Oh we may have the occasional eensy-beensy disagreement. But we handle it with poise and dignity and are far too mature to let it erupt into anything unpleasant. Say, for instance, if he left his dirty cereal bowl in the sink and to help out, filled it with water to let it “soak” for a few days. Even though I may have explained a gazillion times or more that cereal bowls do not require any amount of “soakage” and clarified that they needed to be put in the dishwasher immediately after use. So let’s just suppose that situation took place. I would then softly remind him that I had told him about this rule repeatedly, and in comparison to the average thinking adult his lug nuts must not be screwed on tightly enough. Of course, he would come back and say a little less softly that perhaps my pantyhose must be shutting off all circulation to my brain. Angered by such a crass insult, I would then respond sassily by throwing out the old hurtful comparison by saying, “Oh ya, well your lawn isn’t nearly as green as Mr. Pilkinson’s. I’ll just bet he fertilizes with the good stuff while you’re using that crappy buy-one-get-one-free junk. No wonder it’s browning around the edges!” After hitting a raw nerve right in the old neighborhood-grass-competition soft spot, his face

would inflame like a red hot chili pepper, leaving him no choice but to go below the belt and hotly retort with, “Well at least Mrs. Pilkinson isn’t two felines past being a crazy cat lady!” Oh, no he didn’t! After daring to compare me to the younger, fashionable Mrs. Pilkinson, I would be steaming like a cooked clam and throw back in his face, “Oh Ya! Well…why don’t you just go marry ugly, Mrs. Pilkinson! See if she’ll put up with your stupid soaking cereal bowls in the sink!” After which I would burst into tears and throw fragile items against the wall, such as breakfast bowls including an unwashed one then storm out of the room slamming the door off of its hinges. Now I’m not saying this actually happened. Far be it from me to air my dirty laundry in public, but I will say that my sink has been a lot cleaner lately and for some reason I just received some roses and a new set of cereal bowls. 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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Around Town

November 16, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Hazelwood city clerk announces retirement after 20 years of service After twenty years of dedicated service to the city of Hazelwood, City Clerk Colleen Wolf has announced her retirement effective Oct. 24. In recognition of her outstanding performance as a public servant and her devotion to the public good, the Hazelwood City Council presented her with a proclamation at a recent council meeting and gave her a standing ovation. Wolf began her employment as city clerk for the city of Hazelwood on July 1, 1996. Her prior experience included working for the city of Black Jack for nine years. “I want to thank the city of Hazelwood’s council members, city staff and our wonderful residents for giving me an opportunity to be their city clerk. I’ve enjoyed the 20 years I’ve been with the city, and I can’t Photo courtesy city of Hazelwood imagine my life taking any other path,” Wolf said. At a recent city council meeting, Hazelwood City Clerk Colleen Wolf received a standing ovation from council members, city staff and family She has received numerous awards and honors during her tenure members after accepting a proclamation acknowledging her retirement and outstanding performance over the past 20 years. as Hazelwood’s city clerk. Five years ago, Wolf was a recipient of the Missouri City Clerks and Finance Officers Association’s 2011 Outstanding City Clerk Wolf ’s dedication to helping adults with developmental disabilities find dignified, Award for being the epitome of an exceptional city clerk. In 2006, she received the meaningful employment is evident through her role as an event organizer for Valley prestigious designations of Missouri Professional City Clerk from the Missouri City Industries’ Mayors’ Shamrock Ball fund-raiser. Over the past ten years, this annual Clerks and Finance Officers Association and Master Municipal Clerk from the Inter- fund-raiser has evolved into one of North County’s biggest charity events of the year. national Institute of Municipal Clerks. With tremendous sponsorship support from the local business community, it has beHer leadership qualities have revealed themselves through her service as president come the place to be and be seen networking with influential business leaders and of the Missouri City Clerks and Finance Officers Association – Eastern Division. She elected officials. also became a member of the Missouri Municipal League Board of Directors and Colleen Wolf is married to ret. Police Chief Carl Wolf, and they share five children president of the Valley Industries Sheltered Workshop Board of Directors. and ten grandchildren.

Annual Ameren Thanksgiving Day Parade to ring in holiday season

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Thousands will once again gather for one of St. Louis’ classic holiday traditions when the Ameren Thanksgiving Day Parade returns to the streets of downtown to welcome in the holiday season. The parade will start at 8:45 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day (Nov. 24) and will run west on Market Street from Kiener Plaza to Union Station. To recognize the 50th anniversary season of the St. Louis Blues and the 100th anniversary of the National Parks Service, the honor of serving as this year’s grand marshals has been bestowed upon St. Louis Blues’ legend Bobby Plager, Superintendents Michael M. Ward of the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial and Timothy Good of the Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site. The parade, now in its 32nd year, is organized by the Christmas in St. Louis (CISL) organization. “CISL is proud to recognize the National Parks Service and the St. Louis Blues on their monumental anniversaries,” said Kenneth Mallin, chairman of Christmas in St. Louis. “Both the Blues and our two local national parks are magnificent assets in our community and provide a great source of civic

pride for our entire region.” “We are truly indebted to the fine work being done by the hard working employees of the National Parks Service, seamlessly welcoming millions of visitors each year who come to enjoy our iconic Gateway Arch, the historic Old Courthouse and the venerable White Haven plantation,” stated Mallin. “We encourage everyone to join in the NPS’s anniversary celebration and ‘find a park’ by visiting www.NPS.gov to locate a great national park in your own community.” The Ameren Thanksgiving Parade was named one of the best Thanksgiving Parades by U.S. News and World Report, and KMOV-TV’s 2015 broadcast of the parade was honored with an Emmy. This year, more than 130 parade units will participate, including musical floats, giant helium balloon figures, animal units and marching bands. The parade will conclude with a very special appearance by Santa Claus, to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving and a Merry Christmas. The parade will be broadcast live on KMOV-TV Channel 4 for those unable to attend in person.

Hazelwood West students attend Black Energy Awareness Conference Twenty-seven Hazelwood West High School Prep students recently attended the Black Energy Awareness Month (BEAM) conference at Washington University. The conference provides an opportunity for high school students to broaden their knowledge about the energy industry as well as enhance their exposure to various career opportunities within the energy field. The BEAM conference was hosted by the American Association of Blacks in Energy (AABE). AABE is a national association of energy professionals dedicated to ensure the input of African Americans and other minorities into the discussions and developments of energy policies regulations, research and development, and environmental issues. West Prep students had to undergo a selection process to attend the conference. Their sponsor explains the selection process. “To be a West Prep member, students must have been recommended by a staff member,” said Beverly Brown, teacher and West Prep sponsor. “Other qualifications include high-achievement,

excellent citizenship, enrollment in advanced classes and a desire to attend college.” During the conference, students heard from executives currently working in the energy field who shared information about different careers in the energy field and other science, technology, engineering, and math related fields. Students listened and asked questions, worked with AABE professionals in small groups, networked with AABE members during breaks, and a working lunch. “The goal of the day was to provide an interactive learning environment for high school students to broaden their knowledge about the energy industry and new technology. It was also to help enhance their exposure to various career opportunities within the energy field,” said Karlton Thornton, Hazelwood School District Board of Education Treasurer and general supervisor of Metering Services with Ameren Missouri. “Additionally, the BEAM Conference provides a networking opportunity for students with area energy professionals.”

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • November 16, 2016

Make gifts personal with DIY labels After spending hours scouring stores for the perfect gift for each person on your list, the last thing you want to do is bury your thoughtful gesture in generic wrapping. Fortunately, with the right tools and a little creativity, you can make your gift boxes just as personal as the gifts they contain. When you opt to create your own handmade gift labels, the options are nearly endless. If there are a large number of kids in your group, try making labels with photos instead of names so even the little ones who can’t read can get in on the fun when it’s time to hand out gifts. Or for a more crafty approach, look to one of these ideas from the crafting experts at Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores, which will make your presents so pretty it almost seems a shame to open them. Find more ideas for DIY projects to put a personal touch on your presents this holiday season at joann.com.

DIY Gift Toppers Crafting time: 1-2 hours Skill level: Beginner Supplies and Tools: 12-inch paper trimmer with aluminum cut rail Cardstock Adhesive Twine Fiskars Label/Simple Double Tag Maker with Built-in Eyelet Setter Fiskars Banner Thick Materials Shape Punch Wood veneer Ribbon Alphabet stickers Fiskars Banner/Artisan Double Tag Maker with Built-in Eyelet Setter 8-inch scissors Rosette Gift Topper Use paper trimmer to cut two 3-by-6-inch pieces of cardstock. Fold each piece of cardstock accordion style then fold in half to form fan. Adhere two pieces to-

gether to create rosette, and secure at center with twine. Using label maker punch, cut simple label. After punching tag, punch hang hole using hole punch at front of tool. Glue rosette to top of gift box and attach simple label with twine. Wooden Banner Gift Topper Use the punch for thick materials to cut banner pieces from wood veneer. Tie thick piece of ribbon around gift box, and adhere wooden banner pieces to top. Apply alphabet stickers to banner pieces to spell a festive word or gift recipient’s name. Wrap twine around ribbon and banner to complete.

Align simple label on top of two banner labels, and trim flat end of banners to match angle of simple label. Adhere trimmed banner shapes to untrimmed banner shapes. Check that untrimmed banners extend beyond end of trimmed banners. Curl up points by wrapping cardstock around scissor blades or a pencil. Adhere two ends of simple labels together and glue to banner pieces to create bow loops.

Use paper trimmer to cut small piece of cardstock for bow center. Gently roll in half and adhere. Adhere bow sections together and attach to top of gift box.

Shop These Small Businesses on Saturday, Novmeber 26

Bow Gift Topper Cut two simple labels out of cardstock using label punch and four banners out of cardstock using banner punch. Gently roll two simple labels in half, avoiding putting a crease in cardstock. Use scissors to trim flat end to match angled end.

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School

November 16, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

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Normandy High scholars inducted into international college honor society Three Normandy High School students have been inducted into the Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society chapter at St. Louis Community College–Florissant Valley. Normandy High School students Kalien Boykin, junior; Lauren Bowers, and Jahon Amhad-Gol (both seniors) are participating in the Gateway to College Scholars Academy. The Scholars Academy offers special enrichment opportunities to students who have exhibited exceptional cognitive abilities, leadership qualities and have a need for a more rigorous and challenging academic experience. Through this free program, Normandy students attend classes at the community college while earning a high school diploma with the added benefit of possibly attaining an associ-

Photo courtesy Normandy Schools Collaborative

ate’s degree (or significant college credit) from St. Louis Community College. This program is one of several offerings for Normandy High School students to help prepare them for college or career options after high school. The new PTK members are shown here at the induction ceremony with Florissant Valley Provost Dr. Elizabeth Gassel Perkins.

Remington teacher named international ‘Giraffe Hero’

Photo courtesy Pattonville School District Giraffe Hero Emily Cook (back row) is shown with PEGS students during a recognition reception at Remington Traditional School.

www.dschuster.com

A Remington Traditional School teacher has been named a “Giraffe Hero” by the international Giraffe Heroes Project. She was nominated for the award by students at her school for supporting others in need after suffering a devastating personal loss. Fifth-grade teacher Emily Cook was surprised with the news of her recognition during a special reception with students in the PEGS (Program for Exceptionally Gifted Students) program. The PEGS third graders nominated Cook for the award as part of a writing assignment after participating in a program last year called the Giraffe Project, which highlights how ordinary people have “stuck their necks out” to help others despite their own personal suffering or discomfort. Students learned about other charitable risk-takers and also conducted community service projects of their own as part of the program. “Everyone’s story is very different, but after we heard from Mrs. Emily Cook last year about her volunteer group, Parker’s Army, and the work they were doing to help others in his name, we felt she would be a good candidate,” said Dodie Logue, who teaches social studies to PEGS students.

According to Cook’s bio on the Giraffe website, “In 2012, (Cook) gave birth to a baby, Parker, with severe developmental disabilities; Parker lived only 48 days. Despite the devastating loss, Cook thought of the people who helped her during Parker’s brief life and made the decision to help others herself. She started ‘Parker’s Army’ to help newborns and their families, but she’s expanded it to assist people in need all over the St. Louis area. Parker’s Army has organized blood drives, packed thousands of meals for cancer and HIV/AIDS patients and made leg warmers, bibs, blankets and hats for newborns.” Cook works with Remington’s Student Council each year to host the school’s annual blood drive in Parker’s honor. She is also involved in committees at Remington and within the Pattonville School District and is also active at her church. Danica Johnson, her fifth-grade teaching partner, said, “As well as being a wonderful colleague, friend and mother, Emily has always helped others and given back to the community. Since the loss of her son Parker, Emily has become extremely active with volunteer work and helping the community. She, her family, and friends created Parker’s Army to fight for others in need.”

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • November 16, 2016

Hazelwood student attends three day vet training program at University of Missouri

School

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Madison Knight, junior at Hazelwood West High School, recently attended a three-day veterinarian training program held at the University of Missouri. Knight was one of 12 candidates chosen for this program. To apply for this program, Knight had to shadow a veterinarian for one year, present a letter of recommendation from a teacher, write an essay and submit her transcripts to the program. During the program Knight shadowed veterinarian students, received hands-on learning, and more. Knight even had the opportunity to work with animals during the program. Photo courtesy Hazelwood School District “When I shadowed my veterinarian, I was able to work with farm animals, horses, cats, dogs and more,” said Knight. “This Madison Knight with her congratulations letexperience has really solidified my choice in wanting to attend ter from the University of Missouri. veterinarian school and help animals as my chosen career.”

“Community News hits all areas for all ages.” -Reader ’s comment, 2016

Why do you read the Community News? Pick up your copy at a newsstand today or check us out online, www.mycnews.com

Maritz Arts and Education Council awards Brown Elementary School with a grant Brown Elementary School, in the Hazelwood School District, was awarded a $1,751 grant from Maritz Arts and Education Fund for Teachers Foundation. This grant will be used to fund the “The Maniac Magee Production” project. Students in fifth grade will read the book Maniac Magee, create a script, and then perform the play for the community. Students will learn play writing, set design, costume design and other aspects of play production. The book centers on Maniac Magee, who brings the racially divided town of Two Rivers together

through his stunts and running. “The Maniac Magee Production project will give our Brown School family another opportunity to use the arts as a means for drawing our community together,” said Principal Matt Phillips. The grant was submitted by Peter Kain, Brown Elementary teacher. “On behalf of Brown Elementary students and staff, we thank the Maritz Arts and Education Fund for Teachers, a grant program administered by the Arts and Education Council for their generosity and for selecting our project,” said Phillips.

Project for Drummond fourth graders turns into community outreach

www.MidwestBankCentre.com

Photo courtesy Pattonville School District St. Ann Police Chief Aaron Jimenez and St. Ann Police Officer Jackie Evans, the D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) officer at Drummond, greet Drummond Elementary School fourth graders at their pizza party. Chief Jimenez answered students’ questions about St. Ann and about serving as police chief.

Fourth graders at Drummond Elementary School completed a project-based learning unit on the topic of “Why where we live matters” by attending St. Ann Night Out with their teachers. Throughout the month of September, students researched the community of St. Ann, where their school is located, as part of their geography unit in social studies. Pattonville Superintendent Dr. Mike Fulton visited and spoke with students about the Pattonville School District and its impact in the community. Students also heard from the person who handles public relations for the St. Ann Police Department and were able to ask questions about the area and new developments.

Students took the information they heard from their special guests and what they had learned through online research and presented their findings at the St. Ann Night Out event at Tiemeyer Park. Nearly 70 students attended. The students prepared display boards and booklets telling visitors about their community. They shared information on new developments, government, their public school district, parks and recreation and transportation. The next week, St. Ann Police Chief Aaron Jimenez and some guests from the Pattonville Learning Center came to Drummond to celebrate the fourth-grade students and their hard work with a pizza party.

Sports

November 16, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Sports you see with Gary B...

I will be broadcasting the “STL Health and Wellness LIVE” show every Saturday from 9-11 am on 590 The Fan and 590TheFan.com

www.treesbywoody.net

www.stangelawfirm.com

Thanksgiving eve a must to be at Scottrade Center for Guns ‘N Hoses The BackStoppers always are there to support our fallen first responders so it’s our turn to give back as the event will be held Nov. 23 at Scottrade Center. Guns ‘N Hoses will feature 15 three-round bouts of boxing and mixed martial arts (MMA) matches between police officers, firefighters and emergency medical personnel from Missouri and Illinois. Both male and female fighters are scheduled. Go to www.STLGunsnHoses.com for all the details. * A great way to say thank you Football team at Lindenwood makes history The Lions’ football team had one of the best rushing days in program history recently as it defeated Missouri Southern by a 42-28 score at Hunter Stadium in St. Charles. The offense rushed for 314 yards, their best rushing day since the 2010 season, and it was the seventh-most yards in program history. The Lions averaged 5.3 yards a carry, their second-best mark this season. Half back Aaron Daniels finished the contest with a career-high 180 rushing yards, tying for the 15th-highest in school history. He averaged 6.7 yards per carry. Other backs who contributed to the attack included Connor Faddoul rushing for 78 yards, and Shakeem Wharton and Calen Campbell each had 34 yards. Lindenwood celebrated the efforts of the 19 seniors on the roster before its final home game of the year, with nine on offense, nine on defense, and one special teams player. For more information, go to www.LindenwoodLions.com * Thanks to Andrew P. Morris of Lindenwood Sports Information for the information

Six UMSL soccer players earn GLVC honors The University of Missouri-St. Louis women’s soccer team had six players earn All-Great Lakes Valley Conference honors, announced on the eve of the GLVC Championship Tournament. Senior back Kayla Delgado was a second team selection, while senior midfielder Kirsten Crabtree, sophomore forward McKayla Harder, junior back Emily Mosier, senior forward Miriam Taylor and senior midfielder Taylor Tosovsky were all named to the third team. Delgado is repeat selection to the second team who was honored as a forward last season. This year, in her move to the backfield, she helped the defense to a goals-against average of 0.73 with three shutouts. Crabtree in her lone season with the Tritons, started 13 of the 16 games scoring goals in two of UMSL’s last three games. Harder also a repeat selection to the AllGLVC Third Team, scoring a team-high seven goals and added two assists for 16 points. She scored six goals in GLVC games, tying for thirdmost in the league. Mosier a mainstay at center back, also helped the defense to a low goals-against average. Taylor was a First Team All-GLVC honoree a year ago who netted six goals, including five game-winners, and has also recorded four assists for 16 points. Tosovsky has started all 16 games in the midfield, where she is the co-team leader with four assists and also has two goals for eight points. UMSL, which is currently 12-3-1 overall, finished GLVC play with an 11-3-1 record to garner the No. 3 seed in the postseason tournament. * Kickin’ good time 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 • November 16, 2016

Recipe: Give thanks for the slow cooker Want to spend more time with loved ones this Thanksgiving? Ditch the perfectly timed oven schedule and put your slow cooker to work. It’ll deliver the familiar flavors of your favorite holiday stuffing, sauces and desserts in a new, more convenient way. “Take advantage of the hassle-free slow cooker for sides and desserts and leave the oven free for your turkey,” said McCormick Kitchens Executive Chef Kevan Vetter. “Top a mixture of apples, brown sugar and cinnamon with seasoned oat crumbles for a warm Oatmeal Apple Cobbler – an ooey gooey dessert that will fill your kitchen with an irresistible, sweet and spicy aroma while it slow cooks.” For more time-saving tips and recipes for your Thanksgiving feast, check out McCormick.com and visit McCormick Spice on Facebook and Pinterest.

Learn & Play

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.

Slow Cooker Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Sauce Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 3 hours, 35 minutes | Servings: 16 Ingredients: Pumpkin Cake: 1 package (2-layer size) yellow cake mix 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter, melted 1/4 cup milk 2 eggs 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice 1 cup chocolate chips Caramel Sauce: 1 cup firmly packed brown sugar 1/2 cup heavy cream 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice Directions: Spray inside of 6-quart slow cooker with no stick cooking spray. For the Cake, mix all ingredients in large bowl. Pour into greased slow cooker. Place towel over slow cooker and cover with lid. Cook 3 1/2 hours on low or until cake is almost set.

Meanwhile, for the Caramel Sauce, cook and stir all ingredients in small saucepan on medium-high heat 5 minutes or until sauce is smooth. Carefully remove slow cooker insert and place on wire rack. Pour 1/2 of the Caramel Sauce over the cake. Let stand 10 to 15 minutes to cool slightly. Serve cake with remaining sauce and ice cream or

Slow Cooker Cranberry Sauce Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 3 hours, 45 minutes | Servings: 8

Ingredients: 1 package (12 ounces) fresh or frozen cranberries 2/3 cup sugar 1 seedless orange, peeled and sectioned 2 bay leaves 1 cinnamon stick

Directions: Place all ingredients in 4-quart slow cooker. Cover. Cook 3 hours on high, stirring every hour. Uncover. Stir well. Cook, uncovered, 30 to 45 minutes longer on high or until slightly thickened.

Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 1 hour, 25 minutes | Servings: 12 (2/3-cup servings)

Ingredients: 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter 2 cups chopped celery 1 cup chopped onion 1/2 pound mild (sweet) Italian sausage, casing removed 1 cup chicken stock 2 teaspoons rubbed sage 1 teaspoon crushed rosemary 10 cups cubed French bread (1-inch pieces)

Directions: Melt butter in large skillet on medium heat. Add celery and onion; cook and stir until softened, about 5 minutes. Add sausage; cook and stir until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Spray inside of slow cooker with no stick cooking spray. Add stock and herbs; stir to blend. Stir in bread cubes and sausage-vegetable mixture. Cover. Cook 45 minutes on high. Uncover and stir. Cook, uncovered, 30 minutes longer.

whipped cream, if desired.

See solution on page 13

Substitution: Use 1 cup chopped candy bars in place of the chocolate chips.

Crossword Puzzle – Theme: Thanksgiving ACROSS 1. Take a base 6. Comic book expression for alarm 9. Locus, pl. 13. L on clothes 14. Grazing spot 15. Chose between competitors 16. Pseudonym 17. Matterhorn, e.g. 18. Opposite of cathode 19. *Wampanoag Thanksgiving feast contribution 21. *Original Plymouth resident 23. Flanders of “The Simpsons” 24. Sunrise on compass 25. Part of tennis match 28. Like happy people’s glasses 30. River in Asia 35. Saintly glow 37. Actress Perlman 39. Aqua-Lung user 40. Europe/Asia mountain divide 41. Do-reh-mi-fa-so-la-ti 43. ____ Scotia 44. Same as comae 46. Leopard or such 47. Capital of Ukraine 48. Sprightliness 50. Sold in bars 52. *Like an overcooked turkey 53. Whip strike 55. Pump offering 57. *Thanksgiving pie filling 61. Courage or valor 65. Accustom 66. Intersects blvd.? 68. “A Confederacy of ____,” sing. 69. Climber’s spike 70. Shiny wheel part 71. Grouchy Muppet 72. Old flames 73. Mouth piece 74. India’s first P.M. DOWN 1. Eastern European 2. Tall one is a lie 3. Poetic name of Ireland 4. “Encore!” 5. “Children of a ____ God” (1986) 6. Panache 7. Unagi

8. Fraternity K 9. Ding-a-____ 10. Either fragrance or stench 11. Ghana monetary unit 12. Footnote word 15. *Preserved the old-fashioned way 20. Plural of #10 Down 22. School of thought suffix 24. Blinking cilia 25. *Cranberry ____ 26. Continental money 27. Charlie Chaplin’s character 29. *What to do on Friday 31. Hose problem 32. Egg-shaped 33. Never say what? 34. *Boat contents 36. Winglike

38. 1970s hairdo 42. “Time is money,” e.g. 45. Smooth and shiny 49. Chi precursor 51. *Presidential Thanksgiving act 54. Angry growl 56. Drink excessively 57. Dream sucker? 58. Type of operating system 59. No volume 60. Major-leaguers 61. Cannabis plant 62. Mark of a ruler 63. “The Lion King” villain 64. Himalayan peak 67. Roman numeral 7 See answers on page 13

What’s Happening

November 16, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Send your event to editor@mycnews.com and we'll print it! EVENTS Nov. 16: Food pantry fundraiser

TEAM Food Pantry is having a fundraiser at Chipotle’s from 1 to 6 p.m. Chipotle’s is located at 2391 N. Highway 67 in Florissant (in with all the restaurants right across the parking lot from Target). When you come to Chipotle’s that day you can just tell the cashier you’re supporting the cause for TEAM. Chipotle will donate 50 percent of the proceeds to TEAM Food Pantry.

Nov.16: 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.

Nov. 17: Blood pressure check

Free blood pressure check at Life Care Center of Florissant at1201 Garden Plaza Dr. (off Parker Rd.) Call 314-8313752 for more information.

Nov. 18: Pork steak dinner

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

Nov. 18: Bingo

Bingo from 2 – 3 p.m. at Life Care Center of Florissant at 1201 Garden Plaza Dr. (off Parker Rd.) in Florissant. Call 314-831-3752 for more information.

Nov. 19: Charity dinner and silent auction

The Rotary Club of Florissant, a notfor-profit civic organization, is hosting its Annual Charity Dinner and Silent Auction Fundraiser at 6 p.m., in the Atrium in the Paul Detrick Building on the Campus of Christian Hospital located at 11133 Dunn Road in St. Louis. The event is open to the community; tickets are $85, which includes: dinner, open premium bar, and dessert. The event highlights include a silent auction, live auction and 50/50 raffle. Dinner attendees will have an opportunity to bid on items such as: seven nights at a Palm Beach Condo, or a vacation on Simpson Bay Beach overlooking the pool, beach and ocean. Dinner attendees could also have an opportunity to win an iPad Pro with keyboard and magic pen, one of a kind artwork and for animal lovers, a new pet puppy. To purchase tickets, donate auction items or for sponsorship or advertising opportunities, please email florissantro-

tary@yahoo.com. Proceeds from this fundraising event will help to support the Rotary Club’s philanthropic programs, student scholarships, and funding for other North County not-forprofit organizations.

Nov. 19: Meat shoots

The Florissant Eagles Aerie3638 at 15245 New Halls Ferry Rd. will be hosting meat shoots starting Sept. 17 and running through Nov. 19. No bull barrels, 670 minimum chokes. Shooting # 9s. The shoots run from noon until dusk.

Nov. 20: Meat Shoot Sundays

From Sept. 18 through Nov. 20 there will be Meat Shoot Sundays at Florissant Valley American Legion Post 444 at 7090 Old Jamestown Rd. from noon until dusk. Food and drinks will be available. There will be a children’s play area as well.

Nov. 20: BB gun meat shoot

BB gun meat shoot at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, starts at 1 p.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information call 314-831-6121.

Nov. 23: 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.

Nov. 26: Charity run

Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri is excited to host Girl Scouts Go: Run for the Cookies, its annual five-mile and one-mile run/walk event at the Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri Service Center at 2300 Ball Drive in St. Louis County at 8 a.m. Community organizations will educate attendees on healthy-living options with fun and informational booths. Participants and their families will also enjoy a climbing wall and bounce house along with other children’s activities. Finishers receive a commemorative, unique medal featuring the beloved Do-si-Do Girl Scout Cookie. For more information or to sign up, visit girlscoutsem.org/ girlscoutsgo.

Nov. 26: Small Business Saturday Shopping in Old Town Florissant

Small Business Saturday is the Saturday after Thanksgiving each year that shows support for the small business owner. Old Town Florissant will be having special discounts, give-a-ways and more at the shopping and eating

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

places in Old Town. Like Florissant Old Town Partners on Facebook for more info.

Nov. 27: Historic Florissant Christmas House Tour

Historic Florissant Inc. sponsors this self-guided house tour from 2 to 6 p.m. each Christmas season. Tickets are $12, and are available at Dooley’s Florist & Gifts, Korte’s Custom Framing & Antiques and The Gettemeier House. There are five private homes on the tour this year, which be decorated for Christmas with refreshments. Additionally, the log cabin at Tower Court Park will be on tour this year. The Meyer House will have a display of beautiful artwork. The Gettemeier house will be showing off their newly restored parlor and history research area. Dooley’s Florist & Gifts will be celebrating 50 years and Korte’s Custom Framing & Antiques 70 years with refreshments and specials. Tickets can be purchased in advance or the day of the tour.

Nov. 29: Networking fundraiser

A free happy hour/networking and shopping extravaganza to support the Alzheimer Association will take place from 5 – 7 p.m. at the American Legion Hall Creve Coeur at 934 E Rue De La Banque (behind Bristol’s Restaurant). Donations will be accepted.

Nov. 29: Trivia and spaghetti dinner

Trivia and spaghetti dinner at BelRidge AMVETS Post 55, located on 8842 Natural Bridge Rd., is sponsored by the Sons of AMVETS Post 55. Spaghetti dinner will be served from 6 to 8 p.m. and trivia begins at 7 p.m. for teams of eight or less at $20 per team. A 50 percent payback and round drinks will be awarded to the first place team. Please join us for one or both of the events which are open to the public. For more information, contact 314-423-5557.

Nov. 30: 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.

Dec. 2: Steak fry

Steak fry at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 4 to 7 p.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information call 314831-6121.

Dec. 2: Senior citizen Christmas dance

Listen to the beautiful sounds of the 10-piece St. Charles Big Band or dance the night away at the city of Florissant Senior Citizen Christmas Dance from 7 – 10 p.m. at the James J. Eagan Center. All residents and non-residents are invited. Tickets are $8 each for residents and non-residents if purchased prior to the dance and $10 at the door. Tickets are sold in the Senior Office in Florissant City Hall. Call the Senior Office at 314839-7605, for more information. Ticket price includes admission, entertainment and light snacks. Beer, wine and soda are available for purchase.

Dec. 2-3: Christmas sale fundraiser

The annual sale to benefit Library Friends of Ferguson, Trinkets, Treasurers and Treats, will be held on Dec 2 from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Dec. 3 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Ferguson Library Auditorium at 35 North Florissant Road.

Dec. 2, 4 & 11: Get in the Christmas Spirit!

Choral Arts Singers will present a concert titled “The Glory – The Wonder” that includes Christmas songs such as “Angels from the Realms of Glory, “I Wonder as I Wander” and “Jazz Gloria” on Friday, Dec. 2 at 7:30 pm at Zion Church of Christ, 725 Main St., Troy; Sunday, Dec. 4 at 4:30 pm at Assumption Chapel, 403 N. Main, O’Fallon; and Sunday, Dec. 11 at 4 pm at Grace Community Chapel, 7661 Mexico Rd., St. Peters. The concerts are free - donations are appreciated. Choral Arts Singers is a non-profit organization that provides high quality music to the residents of Lincoln, St. Charles and Warren Counties and is incorporated as Concert Arts Association. See www. concertarts.org.

Dec. 3: Christmas in Old Town with Santa

Sponsored by Florissant Old Town Partners and the city of Florissant, Santa and Mrs. Santa will be at Florissant City Hall from 2 - 4:30 p.m. to see all the good boys and girls. Cookie the Clown will make figure balloons, crafts for the kids, cookie making, storytelling, hot cocoa, face painting and more. All of this is free thanks to Florissant Old Town Partners and the city of Florissant. Only cost would be if you want a picture taken with Santa. Mayor Schneider will “flip the switch” for the lighting of the tree and lights at 5 p.m. Like Florissant Old Town Partners on Facebook for more info.

Dec. 3: Project Liftoff

Project Liftoff XXVII, a drug free, alcohol free, tobacco free holiday D.A.R.E party sponsored by the city of Florissant, Florissant Youth Advisory Commission, D.A.R.E (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) taught by Florissant Police Officers in Florissant area schools, will take place from 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. at the James J. Eagan Center for fifth – eighth graders. There will be DJ music, game room, ice skating, swimming, contests and door prizes along with free pizza and Pepsi products. Admission is $6 in advance, $8 the day of event. A Florissant resident card required to purchase ticket. Tickets required upon entry. Tickets are on sale now at the JFK Center or JJE Center. Tickets sales day of event from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. at JJE only. Tickets will not be sold at the door. For more information call the James J. Eagan Center at 314-921-4466 or JFK Center at 314- 921-4250.

Dec. 6: Concert and lunch

Conservatory concert and lunch takes place at the Mother-In-Law House from 9:15 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Enjoy a private Christmas Concert by the Confluence Chamber Orchestra at one of the most beautiful venues in the St. Louis Area – The Conservatory on St. Charles Main Street. There will be a lunch of chicken cordon bleu with rice, garden salad and peach pie alamode. Cost is $35 for residents and $37 for nonresidents. Tickets will be sold in the Senior Office in Florissant City Hall to residents and non-residents. Call the Senior Office at 839-7605 for ticket availability.

Dec. 10: Winter Wonderland Sales Extravaganza

This event will take place at The Sanctuary at 965 Anglum Rd. in Hazelwood from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. There will be crafters, food, singing, free giveaways and much more. Applications for vendors will be accepted through Nov. 26. For more information contact Rachel Carson at 314-614-8711 or BQcraftfair@ yahoo.com.

Dec. 10: Art show

Good Shepherd Gallery’s last 2016 show will be “God’s Creative Diversity.” The exhibit will present the artwork of Sr. Elizabeth Slenker, Sparkill Dominican. It will open Nov. 26 with a reception from 2 - 4 p.m. and will run through Dec. 10. Sr. Elizabeth taught for thirty-five years (all grades, including Graduate School), and worked as an art therapist and family counselor.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • November 16, 2016 Dec. 13: Light tour and dinner

Start out your holiday season with a visit to Our Lady of the Snows from 3:45 – 9 p.m. Enjoy a buffet dinner at the famous Shrine Restaurant. Then drive through the breathtaking Way of Lights Christmas Display, focusing on the Birth of Christ. Cost is $29 for residents, $31 for non-residents and includes transportation, donation to the Shrine for the lights and dinner. Tickets will be sold in the Senior Office in Florissant City Hall. Call the Senior Office at 314-839-7605 for ticket availability or more information.

Dec. 31: Support group beginning

A PFLAG chapter in North County is starting very soon, and is looking for parents and individuals interested in getting it off the ground running. If you are interested in helping start this support group for parents of GLBT individuals and the individuals themselves contact Josh Privitt at nocopflag@ gmail.com or 314-521-5694.

Dec. 31: Volunteers needed

St. Louis County is now seeking volunteers for the St. Louis County Older Resident Programs’ (CORP) 2016 tax preparation. Applications are now available to begin the process and to sign up for the training. Volunteers will be VITA-certified and will begin volunteering at the CORP tax sites midJanuary and continue through midApril. Volunteers can choose where they would like to help out of eight sites, days, position as a tax counselor, appointment scheduler or customer greeter/intaker. Mileage reimbursement is available. Call today to get started with the volunteer application process. Interested individuals should contact Sheryl Trask at 314-615-7430 for north of I-64 locations or Kathy Paulsen at 314-615-4021 for south county locations.

RECURRING EVENTS 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 314-6154516. 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

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

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 314839-3495 or visit stlouischordinals.org.

Bridgeton Trails Library Branch Programs:

Tuesdays: Lung cancer support group

Florissant Senior Citizens’ Bingo Clubs: 314.839.7604.

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

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.

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.

Sundays: meeting

What’s Happening 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

Every Monday-Friday: Evening Front Desk Volunteers Needed 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.

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

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

SUDOKU answers from page 11

CROSSWORD answers from page 11

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

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

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.

Last Saturdays: Writers Workshop:

10am - 1:30pm, Baden Liberary, 8448 Church Rd., 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 - rain or shine. Great meat prizes awarded.

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

Florissant Elks Lodge #2316, 16400

www.mycnews.com | 636-379-1775 info@mycnews.com

November 16, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

HELP WANTED

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

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November 16, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Movie

By Steve Bryan

Voting the cinematic party

Here in California, people have taken to the streets to protest Donald Trump’s unexpected victory in the presidential election. In a hotly contested race, the businessman and television star won the Electoral College while Hillary Clinton received more actual votes. In January, despite the protests, the Trump presidency will begin. Popular culture has produced even better presidents, ones who can dictate foreign policy while kicking butt. In 1997, Harrison Ford starred as President James Marshall in “Air Force One,” a satisfying action adventure film. After terrorists take over his plane, Marshall, a combat veteran, takes on the attackers. Glenn Close has some great scenes as Kathryn Bennett, the vice president who refuses to give up on him. When aliens attack, America needs a leader like Thomas J. Whitmore (Bill Pullman), the commander in chief during “Independence Day.” Whitmore, a Gulf War veteran, had been criticized for not being an aggressive leader, but he stepped up after extraterrestrial invaders arrived. During the final battle, he climbed into the cockpit of his own fighter jet to defend humanity. Many times, the POTUS makes tough decisions, but none quite as difficult as those in “2012.” Upon learning of an upcoming extinction-level event, President Thomas F. Wilson (Danny Glover) leads an effort to build giant arks for humanity. As earthquakes and tsunamis destroy civilization, Wilson stays in D.C. helping survivors until the end finally comes.

As some newscasters have said, Donald Trump’s victory proves anyone can become president. It helps, though, if you actually look like the POTUS. In 1993, Kevin Kline played a dual role in “Dave,” a clever political comedy. The actor portrays philandering President Bill Mitchell as well as Dave Kovic, the owner of a Washington D.C. temp agency who wants everyone to have a job. The impersonation goes to the next level after the POTUS has a stroke and Dave ends up in charge. He brings common sense and compassion to the job, even asking an accounting friend to go over the budget. Power doesn’t corrupt him, though, and he steps aside to the let the vice president take over. If a comet heads towards Earth, Morgan Freeman is the person we need in the White House. In “Deep Impact,” Freeman plays President Tom Beck, who prepares the world for potential annihilation. Beck authorizes a shuttle mission to destroy the comet as well as bunkers to ensure humanity’s future. If Donald Trump’s presidency doesn’t work out, maybe Ford, Close, Pullman, Kline or Freeman would take the job. Photos courtesy Columbia Pictures, Twentieth Century Fox, and Warner Brothers. 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 wideeyed kid who spent countless hours watching classic movies at neighborhood theaters.