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November 23, 2016

Normandy Schools see major improvements Learn & Play

A twist on a timeless dish

Community Voices

By Rick Stevens

Photo courtesy Normandy Schools Collaborative Brunetta Blackshear, teacher at Barack Obama Elementary, works with students as part of the Normandy Saturday Learning Labs. The Saturday enrichment program is one of several initiatives implemented by the collaborative to help improve student achievement. The collaborative earned 76.5 points on the state’s 2015-16 Annual Performance Report.

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Collaborative reaches provisional accreditation range on state’s annual report card By Nicholas Elmes The scores are in, and it looks like the Normandy Schools Collaborative is well on the path to academic success. The school district, which lost its state accreditation two years ago after only earning 10 out of 140 points on the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Annual Performance Report (APR), has made considerable improvement, reporting that its most recent APR score is equivalent to a “Provisionally Accredited” level. On the most recent report, released in late October, the district earned 76.5 out 140 points, marking the second year in a row they have achieved double-digit improvements on the state assessment. “We have been blessed to have the outcomes we’ve seen in the last two years,” said Normandy Superintendent of Schools Dr. Charles J. Pearson. “Our students and staff have made the sacrifices, doing what was needed to improve instruction and learning. We have also been very fortunate to be a part of a community who stepped up and asked, ‘how can we help.’ Now we have a network of

nonprofits, corporations, individuals and other school districts – all a part of the team to bring the best education to our students. It’s been a partnership of resources, efforts and goodwill from multiple providers. We are extremely grateful; they all have had a role in our resurgence.” He said the collaborative had seen growth in all of its schools in specific grade levels. “In the elementary schools this is attributed to the Balanced Literacy approach to teaching English Language Arts. Reading is the key to success in all subjects,” Pearson said. “Balanced Literacy requires a focus on reading and writing using small group instruction. We are now applying that small group instruction model in teaching math as well. Grades seven and eight had progress in targeted academic areas — ELA, but not as widespread. In each case, what worked to generate growth — focus on vocabulary, reading, writing and support of wraparound partners for children struggling with trauma. Growth

occurred in the high school in English Language Arts and Biology in terms of academics. There was significant growth in the areas of attendance across the district, graduation rate at the high school See IMPROVEMENTS page 2

School

Girls take control of social media

Movie: No turkeys here: Thanksgiving movies 2016 16 FREE Online Subscription at mycnews.com

Around Town Vol. 95 No. 47

In This Issue... Town 3 Around Boeing celebrates 100

years of military heritage along with the Gemini Program and more.

5 Business Local credit union teaches students how to save and more.

Section 6 Special Holiday Shopping Guide

8 School Hazelwood East Middle

girls basketball wins championship game and more.

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

12 What’s Happening 14 Classifieds 16 Movie No turkeys in the newest batch of Thanksgiving movies.

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

November 23, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

IMPROVEMENTS from cover and other measures of college and career readiness.” Pearson pointed out several key changes the district had made in recent years after losing accreditation. He said staff examined operations and met with parents and staff, determining a need to establish a kindergarten center, to move sixth grade into elementary schools, to reinstate Advanced Placement and dual enrollment courses at the high school, provide small group instruction for ELA and reading classes and to use more data to carefully evaluate student progress to provide more support and additional instruction where needed. But while two years of solid growth is great news for the district, Pearson was quick to point out that they were just a starting point and not the end goal. “The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) wants districts to sustain these levels of performance consistently before granting accreditation,” he said. “So, while our scores are significantly improved, they must remain above the Provisionally Accredited level for the foreseeable future before we are granted that status” He said the district would have to maintain scores in the provisionally accredited or accredited range for two consecutive years before it could request reclassification as an accredited district. “The process is developing as we progress,” he said. “If we follow the current process that Riverview Gardens School District is following, we must have two consecutive years of performance in the accredited range with high performance in all standards; the fund balances need to be above 10 percent for two consecutive years; and school climate as indicated by out of school suspensions and other culture measures need to be improved as well. If we have the second

year of progress, then the collaborative will make the request of the state board to grant accreditation to the district.” He said the school system needed to have a clear focus on financials. “We are currently spending $8 million in tuition payments and transportation as part of the mandated transfer program,” he explained. “This is causing us to do deficit spending, although our reserves are still above 10 percent. Despite the large outlay to other districts, we have focused our budget on academics. We have restored programming such as the gifted program, and added staff such as instructional coaches and teacher’s assistants at the Early Childhood Center and Kindergarten Center.” At a public hearing on the school’s accreditation status held by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education last week, parents and community members had a chance to share their hopes for the future of the school system. “Participants provided feedback on how to continue forward movement in each of the assessed areas—academics, college and career readiness, attendance (where we scored points for the first time in three-years) and graduation rate, where we received the maximum points for our progress,” sad Pearson. Pearson said he was extremely proud of the success the school district, teachers, staff, parents and students had achieve in the past two years. “Normandy Schools Collaborative is committed to educating all students so they are equipped to face the challenges of the 21st century,” he said. “Our long-term goal is a great school, an effective teacher, in a vibrant learning environment every day for every child.”

COMMUNITY VOICES Hospitals have a role to play in sickness and in health By Rick Stevens The holiday season is traditionally a time of reflection and to give thanks. As I write this I can’t help but reflect on the warm reception I’ve received from the community since my arrival in June as the new president of Christian Hospital. I am very grateful for that and welcome this opportunity to do my part, along with the rest of the St. Louis metropolitan health care community, in the bigger picture of keeping our residents in the bi-state region healthy through population health. The role that hospitals play in the community is evolving and changing. We think of hospitals as places to go when we get sick and associate them with illness more than wellness. I am one of the people in the industry working to change that. I envision hospitals as being community hubs – places that facilitate interactions between medical professionals and the community, along with local organizations and resources – to promote health and wellness. The impact of a hospital extends far be-

yond the four walls of a building – from food and shelter, job training, smoking cessation classes to weight management and exercise programs, literacy programs and so many other resources that ultimately improve the long-term health of communities. Studies show that most of one’s health can be attributed to non-medical factors such as social, behavioral and environmental influences. In fact, experts tell us that 80 percent of health is driven by these non-medical aspects. In other words, health care is only 20 percent of the health equation, which I believe is a call to action for hospitals to take a broad population health stance. We have a responsibility to redefine our target populations to include not just the patients who come to us, but everyone within our geographic communities, and broaden our scope of action to include impacting non-medical elements of health. I truly believe that hospitals can be

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change agents through our role as good neighbors and large employers within our communities to act as catalysts – working with community-based groups, health departments and public health organizations – to improve and sustain the health of our residents. The federally mandated community health needs assessment process can provide a forum for enhanced collaboration between hospitals and their partners. I look forward to communicating with you every few months in the Community News and wish everyone a healthy and happy holiday season! Rick Stevens is President of Christian Hospital. 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 23, 2016

Hazelwood students featured in PBS documentary

Boeing celebrates 100 years of military heritage, 50 year recognition of the Gemini Program

Submitted photo Boeing welcomed Lt. Gen. Tom Stafford (US Air Force, retired) to help celebrate the greater legacy of space exploration here in St Louis, with special thanks to the veterans who helped make the dream of spaceflight a reality.

On Nov. 9, Boeing employees gathered to pay special tribute to all who have served, including those veterans who have supported the company through its 100 years of honored service and support to the United States Military. Additionally, Boeing honored the history of Space Exploration in St. Louis with a plaque commemorating 50 years since the final Gemini mission and in memory of fallen NASA astronauts. Nov. 11 marked 50 years since the final Gemini mission (Gemini 12) lifted off from Florida. McDonnell Aircraft (now part of Boeing) manufactured the Gemini spacecraft in St. Louis from 1962 through 1966. Many veterans were part of that team; more than 220 of the current and former NASA astronauts come from military backgrounds, with every branch of service represented. Two such veteran astronauts, Elliot M. See Jr (US Navy Reserve Commander) and Charles A Bassett II (USAF major), were traveling to the McDonnell

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facility to see the spacecraft in Feb. of 1966 when their aircraft crashed onto McDonnell property in bad weather. Both were killed. The backup crew – Tom Stafford and Gene Cernan – arrived safety and later flew the successful space mission several months later. Boeing welcomed Lt. Gen. Stafford (US Air Force, retired) to help remember See and Bassett and celebrate the greater legacy of space exploration here in St Louis, with special thanks to the veterans who helped make the dream of spaceflight a reality. Gen. Stafford’s other accomplishments include: four spaceflights (Gemini 6, Gemini 9, Apollo 10, Apollo-Soyuz Test Project) that included a trip around the Moon; leadership of the Air Force Research, Development and Acquisition office, including pioneering use of stealth technology; and numerous awards including the Congressional Space Medal of Honor and the Wright Brothers Memorial Trophy.

Several students in the St. Louis area have been featured in an American Graduate documentary produced for PBS, titled Gentlemen of Vision. Gentlemen of Vision is a youth mentoring program that promotes positive role models for male students. The documentary follows the young men durPhoto courtesy Hazelwood School District ing the 2015-16 school Sean Jackson-Watson, a student at Keeven Elementary year, as they compete in Hazelwood School District, was featured in a PBS docuin national step compe- mentary about a St. Louis area mentoring program. titions. “Our mentees have a 100 percent graduation rate from high school, and all of them pursue higher education, enrolling in colleges and universities across the country,” said Marlon Wharton, Gentlemen of Vision founder. Three former Hazelwood East High School students featured in the documentary are currently pursuing higher education. Darrion Brooks, is currently attending Lincoln University, Isaiah Briscoe attends Harris Stowe State University, and Kevin Wilson is a current student at Tennessee State University. In addition to servicing high school members, Gentlemen of Vision has extended its program to middle and elementary school members, Young Men of Vision. “What I like most about the program is that they help me with my homework after school,” said Sean Jackson-Watson, student at Keeven Elementary in Hazelwood School District. “It’s fun to learn the step routines and then perform the routines for others to see.” The “Gentlemen of Vision” documentary was screened in the St. Louis International Film Festival, on Nov. 10 at Ritenour High School Auditorium.

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November 23, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

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Great weather for runners and walkers that participated in the third annual Race to the Shrine

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Photo courtesy city of Florissant

Hundreds of runners and walkers turned out on an outstanding autumn day to participate in the third annual Race to the Shrine on Oct. 22 at the Old St. Ferdinand Shrine in historic Old Town Florissant. The Race to the Shrine benefits multiple programs locally in the Florissant area. Following the race and walk, winners received trophies and everyone that attended enjoyed barbecue served by the Knights of Columbus as well as live music performed by local musicians

Moore On Life

on the Florissant Show Mobile. Florissant Mayor Thomas Schneider was recruited to pace the run aboard his bicycle and he did manage to finish fourth having been passed by Mike Aitken in first, Pat Faul in second and Levi Buerk in third. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, a volunteer or would like to participate in next year’s fourth annual ‘Race to the Shrine’ visit the website www.racetotheshrine.com for further details.

By Cindy Moore

Shop or drop

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Aren’t we glad? The election is over and we can all settle down, take a breath, put our feet up and turn on the TV and finally watch something to put us in a less agitated and more relaxed state. That was my mood soon after the voting was wrapped up, spanked severely and put to bed. What fighting; what sass; what division, vitriol, venom and viciousness we experienced! So to ease my rattled nerves, I flipped the channel to find something much less stressful than what the country had experienced in the previous weeks. “My Cat from Hell” seemed to be just the ticket. But no sooner had I clicked on the television then I beheld such scenes that can only be described as apocalyptical! There was violence in the streets, riots breaking out, fighting for no apparent reason, people acting out irrationally, pushing and shoving. No, these tantrum-frenzied mobs were not election-related. They were created by something that brings out far worse—those dingdanged department store marketers! They were at it again pushing wild-eyed shoppers out earlier into the fray, even before Thanksgiving. Instead of Black Friday, they had come up with a not-quite-so-Black Friday, but sort of a Charcoal-Silvery Friday and on into the fifty different shades of Gray Fridays and Mondays and Tuesdays to come!

Now before my bird has even been plucked and roasted; while Mr. Turkey is still naively sitting in his pen making plans to show off his plump juicy breast and fat meaty drumsticks to the lady hens next door, Christmas shopping has been moved up yet again to get a jump on those holiday dollars. I guess we can depend on seeing from now until that solemn holiday of peace and goodwill to all men: tackling, punching, fist fighting, kicking and biting, and that’s just two women in combat over the last Flying Ninja Barbie! And not to mention the battles that will erupt over parking spaces. They alone breed the speeders; the screeching brakes; the maimed pedestrians and drivers spouting words that are so salty they would make a pretzel blush. With approximately 1,447 days until the next election, let’s hope for harmony…unless of course the Flying Ninja Barbies go on sale. 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.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • November 23, 2016

Vantage Credit Union staff and members are collecting items for the less fortunate Vantage Credit Union staff and members will be collecting items for the less fortunate during its annual Holiday Giving program. For the program, which runs until Dec. 15, Vantage collects new gifts for a Christmas party at Busch Stadium hosted by Cardinals Care, the charitable organization of the St. Louis Cardinals. Vantage is the sole provider of gifts for this annual party, which provides holiday cheer to 300 children in need. Vantage Credit Union also participates in Warners’ Warm-Up the first two weeks in November. Started in the bi-state area in 2001, War-

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ners’ Warm-Up collects nearly 15,000 coats each year for those in need that are then distributed through Operation Food Search across the St. Louis region. All Vantage branch locations serve as drop off points for new and gently-used winter coats and new children’s gifts. For those with no time to shop or no coats to donate, the credit union is also taking cash donations to purchase gifts and food for local charities. All donations benefit charities in each individual branch community. www.midwestballettheatre.org

Local credit union teaches students how to save Arsenal Credit Union recently visited Granneman Elementary School, in the Hazelwood School District, to speak with second grade students on financial responsibility. Students learned money management, coin counting, and how to make saving money fun. During their presentation, Jennifer Remes and Ida Harrington, bankers for Arsenal Credit Union, explored the importance of Photo courtesy Hazelwood School District money management, check writing, thinking about Arsenal Credit Union recently visited Granneman Elementary School, in the Hazelwood School District, to speak with second grade students on financial responsibility. purchases ahead of time, and being rewarded for saving with interest. Harrington presented the students with Arsenal “As a community credit union, we want to Credit Union branded mementos. show students good money management and “I would like to thank Arsenal Credit Union banking skills,” said Remes. “These kids are our for visiting our second grade students and exfuture generation and it’s important to show plaining the importance of savings,” said Kimthem that saving money can be fun.” berly Beck, instructional guide at Grannemann. At the end of the presentation, Remes and

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CBIZ’s St. Louis office celebrates company’s 20th anniversary with community-based volunteer effort www.MidwestBankCentre.com

Submitted photo Dozens of employees from the St. Louis office of CBIZ, a nationally recognized professional services provider, recently volunteered at Forest Park Nature Reserve as part of CBIZ’s company-wide goal to donate 20,000 volunteer hours to benefit the communities it serves – an initiative recognizing the company’s 20th anniversary.

More than 40 employees from the St. Louis office of CBIZ, a nationally recognized professional services provider, recently volunteered at Forest Park Nature Reserve as part of CBIZ’s company-wide goal to donate 20,000 volunteer hours to benefit the communities it serves – an initiative recognizing the company’s 20th anniversary. CBIZ opened for business in 1996 with 450 employees serving 6,000 clients. Today, the company comprises more than 4,000 employees who serve more than 90,000 clients. “CBIZ has remained successful because we focus on our clients and on our team members, and we choose to volunteer our time because we

care about the communities in which we live, work and play,” said Jerry Grisko, president and CEO, CBIZ, Inc. “Volunteering for local causes gives our team members an opportunity to work together outside of the office to further develop our professional and personal relationships.” Volunteers removed grapevine, invasive species, and honeysuckle as well as charted walking trails. This volunteer effort was one of many taking place at CBIZ’s 100-plus offices across the country, as each of CBIZ’s employees has been encouraged to volunteer in their local offices’ initiatives to recognize the company’s anniversary.

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November 23, 2016 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

Santa’s modern-day helpers From running his workshop to delivering toys around the world, the holiday season is a busy time for Santa. To keep himself going, Saint Nick relies on some essential gadgets to stay connected, organized and entertained throughout the holidays. This year, make your own holidays a little less hectic or someone else’s holiday a little more merry. With the help of U.S. Cellular, you can give some of Santa’s favorite gadgets.

www.SantasNorthPoleDash.com

DRONES: To keep an eye on who’s been naughty or nice, Santa depends on his Parrot Mini-Drone Rolling Spider. The Spider flies smoothly in all directions with its sophisticated stabilizing autopilot system, and a free app with touch controls makes it easy to pilot. Thanks to the “swipe” control feature, you can execute rapid, agile aerobatics, including 90 degree and 180 degree turns, as well as forward, backward and sideways flips. An embedded vertical minicamera lets you take snapshots from the unique vantage point. MOBILE DEVICES: Santa’s Apple iPhone 7 and Samsung Galaxy S7 help him stay connected, organized and entertained. With the iPhone’s new and advanced camera system, you’ll be able to capture memories all season long, and immersive stereo speakers will have you rockin’ around the Christmas tree – all with the strongest battery life ever in an iPhone. If admiring holiday lights is a tradition you hold dear, you’ll appreciate the Galaxy S7’s exceptional low-light image capture, and the smartphone’s expandable memory makes it easy to grab all the photos and videos you can snap. ALARM SYSTEMS: While Santa is away delivering presents around the world, the Nest Cam provides home security. A crisp, clear, highquality glass lens, image sensor and 8x digital clear zoom let you see every detail in full 1080p HD right on your phone, where you can also receive alerts so you know if creatures start stirring – perhaps a jolly old elf? The camera allows you to both talk and listen, and with eight infrared LED, you can see the whole room, even when the night is dark. MUSIC: What’s a sleigh ride without Christmas music? Santa jingles all the way with the UE Roll 2 Bluetooth Speaker. The speaker pumps out crisp sound with deep bass in every direction to spread holiday cheer all around. A rechargeable lithium-ion battery allows for up to nine hours of playtime, so you can keep the

festivities going strong late into the night. Using the UE Roll app, you can take advantage of additional features to tune it, alarm it, personalize it and double up the sound by pairing with another UE speaker. HEALTH TRACKERS: After all the countless cookies and glasses of milk, Santa takes charge of his health with the Samsung Gear S2 smartwatch. The built-in S Health app empowers your active lifestyle and continuously challenges you to practice healthy habits. Effortless navigation, personalization options and features like calendar notifications make it easier than ever to keep everything you need at your fingertips. WIRELESS BLUETOOTH: Santa relies on the Plantronics Voyager Legend Bluetooth Headset to communicate with his elves while he navigates the world on his sleigh. The device intuitively directs calls to phone or headset, pauses See HELPERS next page

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • November 23, 2016

Ways to get resourceful with gift wrapping After spending hours searching for the perfect gift, it’s only fitting that the wrapping is just as special as the gift itself. Luckily, elaborate wrapping doesn’t have to be pricey – you can easily find ways to perfect and personalize your gift with what you have left over from last year and everyday items around the house. 1. Use what’s around you. You don’t have to buy fancy, expensive wrapping paper to make a gift special. Use household items like newspapers, paper bags and even magazines for unconventionally wrapped gifts that still give off a wow-factor. If you have extra bakers twine, use it to create a shabby-chic bow and adorn the present with a small sprig from your Christmas tree. These household items can give gifts a handmade and homey touch that friends and family will love. 2. Don’t let anything go to waste. Get the most out of gift wrapping by using every last bit of your supplies. If you’re at the end of two rolls of different wrapping paper, use the scraps to create a perfectly mismatched present by covering 2/3 of the gift with one paper and the remainder with the other. Use Scotch GiftWrap Tape where both papers meet to create a seam that blends flawlessly into the wrapping paper and top with a bow. If you have leftover birthday paper, using it for a holiday gift is no problem. Flip the paper inside out to use the white side, then simply adorn the gift with decorative tapes to add pizazz, texture

HELPER

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music for incoming calls and allows you to automatically answer by simply placing the headset on your ear. Dual-microphone noise-cancelling technology retains the natural sound of your voice while three layers of WindSmart technology help block intrusive noises. Keep up with loved ones in comfort this holiday season with a pivoting mic boom that lets you wear the headset on either ear. Santa doesn’t have to be the only ultimate gift giver. You can find the items that keep Santa super-charged during the busiest time of the year at USCellular.com, where you can also locate a store near you. and dimension. 3. Accessorize and personalize. Embellish your present with personal touches and accessories to make it stand out. There’s no need to go out and buy fancy bows and ribbons when you can turn everyday items into personalized decorations directly related to the gift itself – like decorating with crayons if you’re giving a coloring book. For quick, DIY monogramming you can do at home, simply use stencils to cut out the letters of your recipient’s name and tape them directly onto the box. If you’re worried about choosing the perfect card, save your money and easily create your own out of cardstock or construction paper for a special touch and personalized message. Whichever way you choose, the time and care you put into personalizing your gift will not go unnoticed. Find more resourceful gift wrapping tips at ScotchBrand.com.

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School

November 23, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Ferguson-Florissant School District’s 2016 state assessment scores announced Results from the 2016 Missouri Annual Performance Report (APR) for the Ferguson-Florissant School District show an increase in the district’s overall score. Ferguson-Florissant received 98.5 points out of a possible 140 points on the state’s annual assessment, or 70.4 percent. Ferguson-Florissant remains fully accredited. This year’s score of 70.4 percent is a .8 percent increase from last year’s score of 69.6 percent. Ferguson-Florissant School District showed growth and earned 100 percent of the points for Standard 1 English. Strong growth in Government scores resulted in100 percent for Standard 1 social studies. This is a significant increase over the past two years and demonstrates the effectiveness of increased collaboration among teachers through Professional Learning Communities within the district. Nine Ferguson-Florissant schools showed improvement in their APR over the previous year, and nine schools scored over 80 percent including all three district high schools. “While we are pleased that we remain fully accredited, we are not satisfied with the rate of improvement. We realize that significant change takes time, but we want more for our students now,” said Ferguson-Florissant’s Superintendent, Dr. Joseph Davis. “Over the past year we have evaluated current practices, implemented several new initiatives based on our findings and proven practices elsewhere, and established new leadership in many of our schools. We fully expect to see the results of those changes in the coming year.”

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Metro Academic and Classical High School finishes first in international high school knowledge competition WorldQuest is a high school knowledge competition where dozens of high schools from the St. Louis and Metro East area compete for an all-expenses paid trip to Washington D.C. to represent St. Louis in a national competition involving over 45 cities. Metro Academic and Classical High School won the trip which will take place in April 2017. Second place was won by Edwardsville High School and both Marquette High School and Clayton High Submitted photo School finished in third place due to a tie. Liberty High School Winners from Metro Academic and Classical High School included (from left) Denye Mickens, took the “Rookie of the Year” Alex Boehme, Court Climes and Cameron Roe. honor. All winners receive financial prizes and part in this “free of charge” competition. personalized trophies. The WorldQuest competition is intended to Twenty-nine schools competed in this year’s stimulate interest among young people in learnWorldQuest which took place on Nov. 3 on the ing more about and being more involved in globcampus of Webster University, a title sponsor of al matters; a core purpose of the council. This the event. The participating schools were a good program has continued to grow in size and sigdistribution of both public and private schools nificance over the years and will be staged again with all high schools in the region invited to take in November 2017.

Hazelwood East Middle girls basketball wins championship game

Photo courtesy Hazelwood School District

The Hazelwood East Middle girls’ basketball team took home the championship trophy during a tournament played on Oct. 29 and Oct. 30. The tournament was hosted by the basketball program at St. Charles High School. Games were held at Hardin Middle School and St. Charles High School. D1 United STL had a score of 32-20, the basketball program is led by Larry Hughes, former St. Louis Billiken and National Basketball Association (NBA) star. The score for St. Charles High

was 34-22, and 22-12 for Fort Zumalt West. The 2-1 record for East Middle, was the determining factor in being awarded first place. “For many of the girls this was their first experience playing organized basketball,” said Michael Zitzer, East Middle coach. “I’ve been coaching at East Middle for four years, and this is the first championship of any kind for the girls’ team at East Middle. We will likely participate in two tournaments the winter seasons.

North County Christian School names student of the month Jeremiah Emanuel was honored at the Northwest Chamber of Commerce membership meeting on Oct. 13. Jeremiah is a senior at North County Christian School where he has attended since second grade. He maintains a 4.0 GPA and is a member of the National Honor Society, Honor Roll and Principal’s List. Outside of the classroom JeremiPhoto courtesy North ah plays baseball, is a member of the County Christian School school orchestra, praise team, student council and serves as chaplain and treasurer of his class. In the community, Jeremiah plays guitar on the church worship team and leads the youth band at Hazelwood Baptist Church. Jeremiah hopes to attend Missouri Baptist University with a major in music performance and education.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • November 23, 2016

PHS teacher named Missouri Outstanding Biomedical Science Teacher Pattonville High School educator Kyle McFarland has been chosen to receive the Missouri Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Outstanding Biomedical Science Teacher Award for 2016. McFarland has been instrumental in growing the nationally certified PLTW biomedical science program at Pattonville High School. The program features a rigorous four-course sequence that gives Pattonville students the opportunity to investigate the roles of biomedical Photo courtesy Pattonville School District professionals as they study the concepts of human medicine, Kyle McFarland presents a white lab coat to a student during the recent Biomedical Science Inphysiology, genetics, microbiol- duction and White Coat Ceremony at Pattonville High School. This year, students in their fourth year of the ogy, public health and forensic science. This year, program take the capstone course Biomedical InPattonville will be the first high school in the St. novations. Everyone in the class participates in Louis region to offer its students the opportunity externships. At least two days a week, they leave to earn Life Science Laboratory Assistant Certischool and go to a lab to work on their project for fication through its biomedical science program. a few hours. During the externships, the students After earning this certificate, students will be are conducting research in multiple areas. One able to work in the biomedical science industry student is working on a project at Washington straight out of high school. University researching what components in cells “It is a very exciting program,” said McFarland, allow a cancer tumor to be resistant to chemowho will be recognized at the state PLTW confertherapy treatments. Many students are working ence. He will receive a plaque of recognition and at BRDG Research Park at The Danforth Plant an iPad, compliments of Missouri PLTW and its Science Center. Their projects include developaffiliate program at Missouri University of Sciing new DNA primers and investigating genes ence and Technology. “The level and complexrelated to Parkinson’s disease. ity (students) are working at is on par with what they do in college and in their career.”

Hazelwood Middle School girls take control of social media

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Photo courtesy Hazelwood School District HOT 104.1 radio personalities, Princess Storm and Meghan-O, shown with Marquita Weber, assistant principal at Hazelwood Southeast Middle School, and Karen Cook, eighth-grade counselor at Hazelwood Southeast Middle School.

Hazelwood Southeast Middle School empowerment group, Girls In Control, inspires middle school girls to make wise choices to impact future life goals, foster self-awareness, and maintain a positive self-image. Digital citizenship, which can be defined as the norms of appropriate, responsible behavior with regard to technology use, is a main focus of the program. “We started Girls In Control, because we felt that there was a need to encourage some of our girls to make positive and healthy life choices,” said Marquita Weber, Southeast Middle School assistant principal. Topics that are covered during group meetings include, how to build and maintain healthy

relationships, recognizing positive and negative influences and goal setting. At a recent meeting, HOT 104.1 radio personalities Meghan-O, and Princess Storm, spoke to the girls about self-respect, and protecting selfimage while using social media. “We thought it would be a great idea to invite the radio personalities, because of their expertise in social media, and their connection to the youth in the community,” said Karen Cook, eight-grade counselor. The Girls In Control group, meet once a month after school at Southeast Middle School. Future topics include: financial awareness, budgeting and credit repair.

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Sports

November 23, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Sports you see with Gary B... Wednesday Thanksgiving eve Guns ‘N Hoses Tonight the BackStoppers will raise money to support our fallen first responders. It will be held Nov. 23 at Scot-

trade Center. Go to www.STLGunsnHoses.com for all the details. * Start the Holiday Season on a giving note

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

Several Lindenwood wrestlers make the list at recent meet The Lindenwood wrestling team placed seven wrestlers, including a champion, in the sixth annual Joe Parisi Open sponsored by MSW Marketing on Saturday. Ronnie Gentile, who made his Lion career debut in this event, steamrolled through the 149-pound bracket, winning the title. The Lions will return to action on Dec. 1 in Hays, Kansas to take on MIAA-rival, Fort Hays State. For more information, go to www.LindenwoodLions.com * Thanks to Andrew P. Morris of Lindenwood Sports Information for the information Professional soccer team Ambush drop home opener The team fought hard after being down 5-1 but was only able to put two more goals in the back of the net dropping the contest to the visiting Tacoma Stars Saturday night at the Family Arena. The Ambush started their scoring when their goalkeeper Casey Clark lobbed a long pass to Cody Costakis, who put the ball in the upper ninety to tie the contest. A bit of history saw the lights go out in the Family Arena for over twenty minutes, causing a stoppage in play. With the last period ticking away, the team picked up their second goal when Daniel Berko scored his first goal of the season at 12:55.

www.byerlyrv.com

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With Kentaro Takada in the game as the sixth attacker, Richard Schmermund buried a restart goal at 13:36 to make the score 5-3. It was too little, too late for the Ambush as the clock ran out and Tacoma secured the victory. Playing in his first professional game, Casey Clark made 18 saves on 23 attempts for the Ambush. The Ambush are back in action this Saturday, Nov. 26, when they host the Chicago Mustangs at the Family Arena at 7:05 p.m. For more information go to www.STLAmbush.com * Many games to go Volleyball season comes to an end at UMSL The University of Missouri-St. Louis women’s volleyball club concluded its season on Friday evening with a loss to McKendree in quarterfinal round action of the GLVC Tournament. The Lady Tritons end their season with an 1812 overall record, the program’s most wins since 2011. Senior Gaylnn Jones led UMSL with nine kills and seven digs, while freshman Selena Nolte recorded eight kills, five of which came in the first set. Junior Madyson Abeyta tallied 20 assists and added two service aces, both of which came in the third set as UMSL jumped out to an early 6-1 lead. Junior Danielle Waedekin recorded nine digs, bringing her season total to 581, which ranks second on the program’s single season charts. The match marked the final contest of the careers of Jones and fellow seniors Lexi Rogers and Samantha Lewis. Rogers graduates ranking eighth all-time in career hitting percentage (.268). * That’s a wrap 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 23, 2016

Recipe: A twist on a timeless holiday dish As millions of families across the country prepare to share holiday meals together, sometimes all it takes to perfect those revered moments is a twist on a timeless classic. While it may be true that no holiday dinner is complete without the green bean casserole – a classic festive favorite – your guests could fall in love with a new take on tradition. This time around, try shaking things up with bacon

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.

and cheddar, or add some Italian flair with a differently seasoned casserole. With Bacon and Cheddar Green Bean Casserole or Green Bean Casserole Italiano, all you have to do is make a couple of simple tweaks to add that new flavor to the holiday menu. For more holiday cooking inspiration and recipes, visit DelMonte.com.

Bacon and Cheddar Green Bean Casserole Servings: 12 | Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 30 minutes

Ingredients: 2 cans (10 1/2 ounces each) condensed cream of mushroom soup 1 cup milk 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided 6 slices bacon, cooked and chopped (about 6 tablespoons), divided 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper 4 cans (14.5 ounces each) green beans, drained 2 2/3 cups crispy fried onions, divided Directions: Heat oven to 350 F. In 3-quart baking dish, stir soup, milk, 1/4 cup cheese, 5 tablespoons bacon, black pepper, green beans and 1 1/3 cups onions. Bake 25 minutes, or until bean mixture is

See solution on page 13

hot and bubbling; stir. Sprinkle with remaining cheese, onions and bacon. Bake 5 minutes, or until onions are golden brown.

Green Bean Casserole Italiano Servings: 12 | Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 30 minutes

Ingredients: 2 cans (10 1/2 ounces each) condensed cream of mushroom soup 1 cup milk 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided 1/2 cup chopped, well-drained sundried tomatoes in olive oil, divided 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, crushed 4 cans (14.5 ounces each) green beans, drained 2 2/3 cups crispy fried onions, divided

Directions: Heat oven to 350 F. In 3-quart baking dish, stir soup, milk, 1/4 cup cheese, 6 tablespoons tomatoes, black pepper, Italian seasoning, green beans and 1 1/3 cups onions. Bake 25 minutes, or until bean mixture is hot and bubbling; stir. Sprinkle with remaining cheese, onions and tomatoes. Bake 5 minutes, or until onions are golden brown.

Crossword Puzzle – Theme: Tourists’ Europe ACROSS 1. French abbots 6. Bag to Coco Chanel 9. Pulpit predecessor 13. Butterfly, pre-metamorphosis 14. Plays for pay 15. It died February 3, 1959 16. Wrinkles easily 17. Slippery when cold 18. Undo 19. *Home to Piccadilly Circus 21. *Home to Charles Bridge and Kafka’s grave 23. Scot’s woolen cap 24. Chinese monetary unit 25. Choose 28. Psychedelic lamp 30. Unhealthy vapors 34. Be sick 36. *Mister from Munich 38. Bar, legally 40. Like word of mouth 41. Software extension 43. Confederate soldier’s hat 44. Comforter stuffing 46. Magazine contents 47. Perceives with an eye 48. Masculine and feminine 50. Same as eon 52. Swedish shag rug 53. Related 55. Pester 57. *Where to see The Book of Kells 60. *Home to Tiergarten 63. Yankee’s relationship to Red Sox 64. Goose egg 66. Pneumonic lung rattling, pl. 68. Each and all 69. E in BCE 70. Bay window 71. Madam, to a cowboy 72. Yankee’s foe 73. *Eventual tourist feeling? DOWN 1. 100% 2. Get-out-of-jail money 3. *Home to Freedom Square 4. *Tour de France, e.g. 5. Warm weather shoe 6. “Wheel of Fortune” choice 7. *____ De Triomphe

8. a.k.a. nutria 9. *Salz____ or St. Peters____ 10. Biblical twin 11. ____ en scene 12. Expert 15. Unkind person 20. Nebraska’s largest city 22. Truck brand 24. Railyard worker 25. Symphony member 26. *Home to Notre Dame 27. Port city business 29. Sacred Hindu writings 31. Requests 32. Be at the helm 33. Languishing 35. Show the guns? 37. *Home to Trevi Fountain

39. *Home to the Leaning Tower 42. Not a soul 45. In fact 49. *Sporty tourists do it in the Alps 51. *Like a Norwegian fjord 54. Private 56. Unfriendly glance 57. Prima donna 58. Iris holder 59. Yeasty foam 60. Spill the beans 61. Pelvic parts 62. ____-do-well 63. “Losing My Religion” band 65. Boiling blood 67. Like a fox See answers on page 13

What’s Happening

November 23, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Send your event to editor@mycnews.com and we'll print it! EVENTS 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 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 Bel-Ridge 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 vet-

erans. 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 314-839-7605, 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 non-residents. 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.

Dec. 13: Light tour and dinner

www.delmargardens.com

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 VITAcertified and will begin volunteering at the CORP tax sites mid-January and continue through mid-April. 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 314993-6134.

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 314839-3495 or visit stlouischordinals.org.

Tuesdays: Lung cancer support group

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.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • November 23, 2016 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: Women’s chorus meeting

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.

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

Sundays: Jennings Do-Dads meeting

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

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.

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.

Wednesdays: STEPS Schizophrenia Support Group 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.

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

What’s Happening

Rd., Florissant, 9am, 314.355.1516, Helpline 800.272.3900

Last Saturdays: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group: Mother of Good Counsel Home, 6825 Natural Bridge, St. Louis, 10:30am 314.383.4765

Last Tuesdays: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group

Missouri Veterans Home, 10600 Lewis & Clark, St. Louis, 1pm, 314.340.6389

Wednesdays: Weekly Cancer Survivor’s Support Group

free, 636.755.3034

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

Wednesdays: New Choices NarAnon Family Group at Zion Lutheran Church

12075 Dorsett Road, Maryland Heights, 7:30 – 9pm, www.Nar-Anon.org

Thursdays: Grief Share Support Group

H.W. Koenig Medical Building at SSM St. Joseph Hospital West, 3 - 4:30pm,

Church of the Nazarene, 1309 N. Elizabeth Ave., Ferguson 6:30 - 8pm, leecedra@sbcglobal.net

SUDOKU answers from page 11

CROSSWORD answers from page 11

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

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 stateof-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.

www.nine2fivestl.com

Smoking Cessation Classes:

Free ongoing 8-week sessions, 866. SSM.DOCS to register or for more information.

SSM DePaul Wellness Center:

Classes available on strength training, nutrition and smoking cessation, 314.344.6177

Free Mammogram Screenings:

SSM Health Care free mammogram screenings to women who have no health insurance. Appointments at 300 First Capitol Drive in St. Charles and SSM St. Joseph Hospital West, 100 Medical Plaza in Lake Saint Louis, 636.947.5617

Speaker’s Bureau:

SSM speakers available for organizations, clubs, community and church groups for up to one hour free of charge, 636.949.7159

ONGOING SUPPORT GROUPS Sundays: Support Group for Women Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse

6:30 - 8pm, 7401 Delmar Ave. in University City, 314.993.5421.

First and Third Tuesdays: Support Group for Women Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse 12:30 - 2pm, 320 Forsyth Blvd., Clayton, 314.968.3477.

Third Saturdays: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group

At Delmar Gardens North, 4401 Parker

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

November 23, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

HELP WANTED

NOVENA PRAYER TO ST. JUDE 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. 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.

SERVICES PET CEMETERY

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

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Movie

By Steve Bryan

For many people, Thanksgiving means turkey, football and family time over a very long weekend. When the kids grow restless or Black Friday gets to be too much, many families head to the movies. Hollywood recognizes that fact with a slate of new and notable films, some of which are potential Oscar winners. In fact, there are no turkeys evident in the 2016 lineup. Eddie Redmayne always lands in high-profile movies, and “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” is no exception. “Harry Potter” author J.K. Rowling turns the Hogwarts textbook of the same name into a potential new franchise. Redmayne plays Newt Scamander, the book’s future author who gets involved with the American magical community. Even for muggles, high school can be an especially trying time. “Edge of Seventeen” captures that frustration and angst in a fun and relevant story. The talented Hailee Steinfeld plays Nadine, a high school student whose brother starts dating her best friend. Woody Harrelson adds humor to the story as Mr. Bruner, Nadine’s teacher and a somewhat sympathetic ear. Director Ang Lee returns this year with the very contemporary “Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk.” Joe Alwyn plays the title role, a teenager who served in the Iraq war and came home to accolades. The story, based on the novel by Jean Christophe-Castelli, shows what really happened during the heat of battle. Steve Martin, Vin Diesel and Chris Tucker round out a rather impressive cast. Miles Teller typically appears in notable film franchises and indie movie sensations. Though 2015’s “Fantastic Four” reboot crashed and burned, Teller was front and cen-

NO TURKEYS HERE: Thanksgiving movies 2016

ter in 2014’s “Whiplash,” an intense film about an aggressive music teacher. In 2016, the actor teamed up with the prolific Jonah Hill for “War Dogs,” the true story of two young and inexperienced arms dealers. Teller goes for broke in “Bleed For This,” a film based on real-life boxer Vinny Pazienza. Now known as Vinny Paz, the boxer was an up-and-comer in 1991 when he broke his neck in a serious car accident. Teller’s performance captures Paz’s road to recovery and his desire to get back into fighting shape. The actor also may have a shot at Oscar gold with this performance. Currently ranking 100 percent fresh on “Rotten Tomatoes,” Disney’s “Moana” looks like the perfect family choice for the holiday weekend. Newcomer Auli’i Cravalho lends her voice to the title role, as a would-be sailor looking for a legendary island. Dwayne Johnson’s Maui, a demi-god, joins her on her seafaring quest. With quality Disney animation and great voices, this one is a potential crowd pleaser. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!

Photos courtesy (clockwise from top left) “Fantastic Beasts & Where to Find Them’, Warner Bros.; “The Edge of SEventeen”, Gracie Films; “Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk”, Bona Film Group; “War Dogs”, Green Hat Films; “Bleed for This”, Verdi Productions; “Moana”, Walt Disney Born and raised in South St. Louis, Steve Bryan is now based in Anaheim, California, and has been allowed access to movie and television sets to see actors and directors at work. Though his writing has taken him far from St. Louis, Steve is, at heart, still the same wide-eyed kid who spent countless hours watching classic movies at neighborhood theaters.

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