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November 30, 2016

St. Louis ArtWorks honored by nation Learn & Play

Lend a Helping Ham

Community Voices

By Charlotte R. Beard

Submitted photo St. Louis ArtWorks Executive Director Priscilla Block (left) holds the 2016 National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Award while standing next to AnnaLise Cason, a St. Louis ArtWorks apprentice and First Lady Michelle Obama.

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Organization receives 2016 National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Award from First Lady Michelle Obama By Nicholas Elmes Since it first opened in 1995 supporters and participants in St. Louis ArtWorks have known the importance and impact of the program, but on Nov. 12 that knowledge was shared with the world as First Lady Michelle Obama named the organization as one of only 12 groups to receive the 2016 National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Award. The award recognizes the country’s best after-school and out-of-school-time creative youth development programs for using engagement in the arts and the humanities to increase academic achievement, graduation rates and college enrollment. The 12 awardees – chosen from a pool of 251 nominees and 50 finalists – were also recognized for improving literacy and language abilities, communication and performance skills and cultural awareness “To realize that we were now designated as one of the top youth programs in the nation was extremely rewarding,” said St. Louis ArtWorks Executive Director Priscilla Block. “We have worked so hard over the years to continue to improve the quality of our program and to serve more and more kids. It has taken a lot of

investment from people from around the community to do this and it is sort of a validation of their investment in us.” St. Louis ArtWorks is an apprenticeship and job training program for area youth aged 14 to 19. “We use art as the vehicle to provide that job training and life skill development,” said Block. “We have youth from over 50 different high schools and 33 different zip codes.” The organization uses two dedicated professional artists to guide the youth through completing commissioned artwork for area industries, businesses and governments. “I go out and solicit the commissions and then we know if it will require skills of painting and drawing or photography and graphics or maybe someone who is good at sculpture,” said Block. “Once we know the skills that are needed, we teach those skills to our youth. We also very much teach the business side of it. “Our primary goal is to strengthen our apprentices’ core skills in science, technology, engineering, art and math; exposing them to a variety of careers. Our youth also gain professional work experi-

ence while earning a stipend and learning the importance of teamwork, social skills, life skills and financial management – all essential qualities our future workforce needs to succeed,” said Block. Ninety percent of St. Louis ArtWorks’ youth graduate high school and plan to attend college, which is a significantly higher rate than their classmates. Block made sure to bring a shining example of what the program could accomplish when she visited the White House to receive the award earlier this month, inviting current apprentice AnnaLise Cason to come with her. “She was recommended by several of our teaching artists and my program manager because of her dedication to the program,” said Block. “AnnaLise has been an apprentice with us since 2014. She has been involved with projects that have created large murals and she is currently working in a group that is creating screenprinted textiles that will be offered for sale on Dec. 10 at our holiday sale.” Cason, a junior at Confluence Academy, did not always have the extra money See ARTWORKS page 2

Students awarded scholarships

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Around Town Vol. 95 No. 48

In This Issue... Town 3 Around Boy Scouts collect food for food drive and more.

7 Business Monsanto awards

Hazelwood robotics teams a $14,500 grant and more.

8 School FFSD awards 2016-17

educational technology grants and more.

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

12 What’s Happening 14 Classifieds 16 Movie “Fantastic Beasts and

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November 30, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

ARTWORKS from cover for art supplies and was often too busy to do what she loved most – make time for her art. Being an apprentice at St. Louis ArtWorks gave her the motivation she needed not only to help paint her dreams, but also to turn those dreams into reality. “I like to use my art to capture my dreams, music I hear or something I have read in a book,” said Cason. “I want to be an illustrator, and what I’ve learned with St. Louis ArtWorks will help me in the future. I have learned to speak with more confidence and to be more of a leader.” The award was celebrated by a number of its long-time partners and supporters, including the Missouri Arts Council, the Regional Arts Commission and Emerson. “By engaging and inspiring young people, St. Louis ArtWorks is giving them not just the vision but the skills to build a new and better life for themselves and their families, and for our community,”

said Narcisa Symank, Board Chair for St. Louis ArtWorks. “These young people are learning how to use creative thinking to work as a team, to solve problems and to express themselves constructively. These are exactly the kinds of skills we want them to have to be able to succeed in school, in work and in life.” In addition to the national recognition bestowed by receipt of the prestigious award, St. Louis ArtWorks will also receive $10,000 to support its programming and engage more young people from the community. “I would like to thank everybody that supports us and encourage those that have not yet or don’t know about us to consider supporting us,” said Block. “It is those donations that fuels every opportunity we have for our kids. For more information about St. Louis ArtWorks, please visit stlartworks.org.

COMMUNITY VOICES When the tables turned By Charlotte R. Beard What’s in a name? Sitting on the set for her television talk show pilot – “Let’s Get It! Together,” it was as if I was witnessing the essence of her name being used as the backdrop for her vision. “Wisdom gathered in tranquility, dispelling the negative and encouraging one to see oneself as they really are.” If you look up the significance of a jade gem, that is one of the descriptions you’ll find. Jade Harrell – wife, mother of five, radio personality and community activist invited a live audience on Oct. 29 to turn the tables on what had been a podcast radio show to a TV talk show. As it did on that day when I sat on the front row, “Let’s Get It! Together” encourages participants and viewers to embrace the challenges of achieving understanding and solutions to real-life issues in a cohesive manner. The aim of the show is to encourage us to change the way we think about our differences and think purposely in our life decisions. Whether Jade was thinking purposely about her decisions early in life, as I talked with her it became clear to me that there was a theme. When asked how she grew up in Denver, Jade not only revealed that her father was a DJ but that she worked the turntables in high school. “…I did have a high school radio show. Our high school was like 90210,” Jade stated recalling the popular Beverly Hills show version that aired during the 1990’s. “I was very creative and I could blend genres of music. I went to a very diverse high school.”

Though Jade Harrell went on to get her degree in Business Administration from Hampton University in Virginia, the tables continued to turn in her life, presenting DJ opportunities. One such opportunity came after her family moved to Atlanta. While at a night club she introduced herself to a couple of DJs and complimented them on their mix set. The DJs – Jonathan Smith, today known as music producer and rapper Lil’ Jon, and DJ Searcy, gave her an opportunity to show off her skills after finding that she was familiar with the art of mixing music. Jade started working the turntables almost every weekend with the duo. Other DJ opportunities presented themselves as well for Jade between 1992 and 1996, while she worked in corporate America during the day. Jade Harrell was evolving in the media industry when she started gaining production, host and show creator opportunities in radio and television in Atlanta. However, once again the tables seemed to turn in Jade’s life after she’d married and started a family. Because of the need to care for a family member here in St. Louis, in 2004 she and her family relocated. In 2005, a series of events and favor landed her a place in radio with iHeart Media (formerly Clear Channel Radio). I asked Jade about her most memorable experience, or favorite thing about being in radio. Her response was the opportunity to be involved in the community affairs and be part of the “Sunday Morning

Live” family here in St. Louis with iHeart Media. She mentioned legends like Kevin Pulley and Bernie Hayes. The interview that seemed to strike a chord with her most was Dr. Terrence Roberts – one of the Little Rock Nine. Dr. Roberts was one of nine African American students who in 1957 were the first black students to attend classes at Little Rock Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas. From working turntables in a Denver, Colorado high school to seeing the tables turn in her own life, Jade Harrell is living out what it means to evolve. Never settling for just using her rare gem characteristics with iHeart Media, she is aiming to take her RareGem Productions’ radio podcast – “Let’s Get It! Together” to the TV screens of homes. It will be interesting to see how far she takes “It!” Charlotte R. Beard, a St. Louis native, is a contributing writer for the Community News as well as a writer for I Am EStL Magazine. In addition to having had her inspirational writing featured in The St. Louis American Journal, in her spare time she consults as a writer for her clients. Charlotte’s collection of inspirational poetry, “Inspirations by Char,” was released under Westbow Press in February 2016. 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 30, 2016

Boy Scouts collect nearly 2.2 million food items during Scouting For Food

Photo courtesy the Greater St. Louis Area Council, Boy Scouts of America

The holidays will be a little brighter for many families in need throughout the region as the Greater St. Louis Area Council, Boy Scouts of America collected 2,195,060 items of food Nov. 19 during the 32nd annual Scouting For Food drive. It is the third-largest collection ever recorded and highest total since 2008 when Scouting For Food collected 2,196,237 food items. That number will only continue to grow as MERS Missouri Goodwill, 2016 Scouting For Food sponsor, accepted canned good donations Nov. 20-26. Over one million bags were distributed throughout the region. Scouts, parents, and volunteers returned Nov. 19 to collect the bags filled with canned and non-perishable food items. Food in the St. Louis area was taken to local firehouses

where donations were sorted and boxed. Sunset Transportation provided vehicles, drivers and equipment to transport the boxed food to the St. Louis Area Foodbank. In southeast Missouri and southern Illinois, Scouts delivered donations directly to local food pantries. Scouting For Food donations will be distributed to more than 500 food pantries and food banks throughout the region. It will keep shelves stocked for weeks and in some cases months to come providing well over 500,000 meals for those in need. The Nov. 19 food collection was a combined effort between the Greater St. Louis Area Council and the Lewis and Clark Council headquartered in Belleville, Illinois. The Greater St. Louis Area Council and Lewis and Clark Council will merge to form one unified council effective Jan. 1, 2017.

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Hazelwood School District’s Annual Performance Report yields positive trends Hazelwood School District announced that the district’s Annual Performance Report (APR) yields positive trends. The district has earned 120.5 out of 140 possible points covering 20132016 school years. The district continues to be fully accredited with one school earning 100 percent of the total points possible. Highlights of the Hazelwood School District’s continued progress include: • One school earned 100 percent of the total APR points • The total points earned in seven schools reflected an increase • The total points for nine schools demonstrate stable progress • 20 schools earned between 70 percent – 99 percent of the total possible APR points • All three high schools increased in the percentage of students scoring proficient or advanced in English Language Arts (ELA) Under the fifth version of the Missouri School Improvement Program (MSIP 5), Missouri public K-12 school districts are scored on five standards which are: academic achievement, subgroup achievement, college and career readiness, attendance rate, and graduation rate. MSIP 5 is used to distinguish the performance of schools and districts in valid, accurate and meaningful ways so that districts in need of improvement can receive appropriate support and interventions, and high-performing districts can be recognized as models of excellence. APRs are based on the performance standards and are reviewed for accreditation purposes at the district level. Status, progress, and growth, where applicable, are used to calculate a comprehensive score used to determine the accreditation level of a school district. Dr. Nettie Collins-Hart, new superintendent, expressed how pleased she was with the district’s APR progress. “We are proud of our students and teachers for the work they do every day to master the standards as set forth by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education,” said Dr. Collins-Hart. “As we have high expectations for all, the Hazelwood School District is committed to increasing the academic achievement for our students.”

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November 30, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

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Florissant Veterans’ Parade honors servicemen and women

Pictured are members of the Florissant City Council and Judge Dan Boyle.

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A veterans’ parade followed by a presentation of the Veteran of the Year award was held on Nov. 13. Fantastic fall weather provided an enthusiastic turn out to pay tribute to our veterans. This year’s parade marshal was Pat Stinnett, who was last year’s Veteran of the Year winner. The Veteran of the Year award went to John F. Demos who served in the U.S. Army and was assigned to the 173rd Airborne Brigade in Bien Hoa, Vietnam. In the mid-90s he helped

Photo courtesy city of Florissant

in bringing the VVA to Florissant by creating the VVA Chapter 794. In 2003, he and members of the VVA Chapter 794 were instrumental in bringing the Vietnam Moving Wall to Florissant. Tony Colombo from FM News Talk 97.1 was the Master of Ceremonies, the guest speaker was Frank J. Mantia and Mayor Thomas Schneider (US Navy Seabee Vet) addressed the assembly with a few remarks.

Regional School Assembly celebrates St. Louis region’s commitment to closing the school discipline gap

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Nearly 600 community members gathered Nov. 13 at the Regional School Assembly: Keeping Our Kids in the Classroom to discuss on-going efforts to eliminate out-of-school suspensions for pre-kindergarten through third grade students, a signature call to action of the Ferguson Commission’s report in 2015. “We cannot afford to be silent, complacent, or apathetic when it comes to the nation’s greatest resource, which is our children,” said Reverend Karen Anderson, President of the board of Metropolitan Congregations United. “We as a community must take creative action across the region if we are going to change the trajectory of outcomes and provide a better future for our children.” The event, held at Maplewood Richmond Heights High School, was part of a collective effort by several community organizations, including: FOCUS St. Louis Impact Fellows, Forward Through Ferguson, Metropolitan Congregations United, Ready by 21 St. Louis, West County Community Action Network, and Educators for Social Justice. At the Regional School Assembly, Stacy Clay, Deputy Superintendent of Student Support Services for St. Louis Public Schools reported on the impact of an April 2016 change in outof-school suspension policy for their youngest students. “School suspensions this year in Saint Louis Public Schools are only 20 percent of what they were at this time last year,” he shared. Representatives from 20 school districts across St. Louis City, St. Louis County and St. Charles County were present at the gathering. Superintendents and other leadership announced their support of policy changes that reduce and eliminate out-of-school suspen-

sions, choosing one of three levels of commitments. Maplewood Richmond Heights committed to changing their policy for next school year, 2016-2017. Normandy and Ladue committed to changing their policy for the 2018-2019 school year. Additionally, 17 school districts committed to reducing out-of-school suspensions exploring alternative disciplinary practices. Through meetings with school district officials, advocates heard that it is not enough to change school district policy around this issue. Many superintendents called for additional resources and support from the community as the districts implement alternative school disciplinary practices that keep child and teacher wellbeing at the center. “We can’t just make demands on our schools without offering to partner with them to help improve things,” said Dr. Jason Purnell, Principal Investigator and Project Director, For the Sake of All. “We are all in this together.” Affirming that changes in school discipline policies and practices will take support from more than just school districts, the event organizers and other key community partners presented their commitments to moving racial and educational equity work forward. The event featured performances from Freedom Arts and Education Center, A- Ladies A Capella Group from Webster Groves High School, and AfroKuumba dancers with Alicia Sunshine School of Dance. Organizers of the initiative are planning a series of meetings in the coming weeks with funders, districts, and community leaders to continue discussions and build a model for funding school support.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • November 30, 2016

Over $3.3 million donated to Siteman Cancer Center and St. Louis Children’s Hospital from Pedal the Cause Pedal the Cause supporters gathered at Ballpark Village as the organization presented a recordbreaking donation of $3,300,029 to Siteman Cancer Center and St. Louis Children’s Hospital at the Pedal the Cause Check Presentation Celebration. 100 percent of this donation was raised by riders, spinners, volunteers, virtual riders and kids participating in the seventh annual Pedal the Cause – a cycling challenge and weekend community celebration with the goal of curing all cancers for everyone. Pedal the Cause 2016 took place on Sept. 24 and 25 at the Chesterfield Amphitheater. “Pedal the Cause supporters have been busy fundraising all year and should be incredibly proud of not only this enormous check, but more importantly of the impact their donations are having on the state of cancer” stated Jay Indovino, Executive Director of Pedal the Cause. “Funds from Pedal the Cause have kick-started new ideas and projects that would not have received funding otherwise. These projects are producing strong results, new treatments and meriting large federal grants. We are truly changing the course of cancer.”

Moore On Life

The generous support of sponsors, led by Edward Jones, ensures that 100 percent of donations made to Pedal the Cause directly fund the best and brightest cancer research projects at Siteman Cancer Center and St. Louis Children’s Hospital. During event weekend in September, Edward Jones announced a renewed commitment of $1 million over the next three years to support Pedal the Cause’s 100 percent model. Pedal the Cause is St. Louis’ premier cycling event, where 100 percent of all donations fund groundbreaking cancer research at Siteman Cancer Center and St. Louis Children’s Hospital. In 2016, over 4,000 riders, spinners and volunteers, with the support of more than 30,000 donors, have made Pedal the Cause the region’s largest peer-topeer fundraising event. In seven years of fundraising, Pedal the Cause participants have donated $15,807,029 to beneficiaries, funding 74 cancer research projects — including 50 adult and 24 pediatric projects. Funds donated by Pedal the Cause in 2016 will be distributed to the most promising research projects in 2017.

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Leftovers The turkey carcass has been plucked to the bone; the wishbone has been snapped and our hope has come true – the election is over! The gravy is long gone, although there’s never enough of it to begin with. The pitcher had been emptied long before I could even drench my dry breast (the turkey’s… don’t even go there!) The soggy green bean casserole swimming in a pool of mushroom soup has been sent home with the relatives, who upon arrival promptly fed it to their pets. The last of the heaping mounds of mashed potatoes have been unglued from the Tupperware bowl and reheated so many times they could be used to cement bricks together. And finally, that wobbling mold of cranberries shaped like the can (which no one took a bite out of) is about to be tossed, but because no one can bring themselves to throw away a perfectly good uneaten gelatin glob, it sits on the counter. My grandmother’s voice reverberates from the grave, “Don’t you know there are starving people in China?” Then an even louder voice echoes, “And I’m not reverberating from the grave…I’m just in the bathroom!” “Sorry grandma, it sounded like you were in a tomb. But, you know those starving people in China won’t eat this either?!” I say. “Don’t you dare throw out those cranberries or

you’re out of my will!” I wedge the blobby mess into the back recesses of the fridge. It’s time to move on. The food, family, fun and friends have left. Now what do we have to look forward to? Oh, if only there were something invented to give all those groceries we consumed time to settle and grow into fatty layers, which are needed for the long winter ahead. If only there was something that would allow mankind to immerse into a state of hibernation and vegetate as the chill winds of winter blow. If only there was something that would allow man to have an excuse not to do anything worthwhile or lift a finger until the first thaw. If only this something also started with the same letter as food, family, fun and friends? Suddenly, I hear from the depths of my husband’s man cave a celebratory, “Touchdown!” Ah yes…football! Cindy Moore is the mother of three superlative kids, servant of two self-indulgent felines and wife to one nifty husband. Her ficticious occupation? Archeological Humorist: someone who unearths absurdity and hilarity in strange and unusual places including public restrooms, the lint filter, and church meetings. Most recently, she excavated a find in her neighbor’s bird feeder. The opinions expressed in this column are Cindy Moore’s alone and do not reflect the opinion of the owners or staff of Community News.

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November 30, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

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Gateway Arch tram operations temporarily suspended for system improvements Journey to the Top tram rides at the Gateway Arch will be temporarily suspended beginning Nov. 28 to replace the motor generator sets and upgrade the tram’s electrical system. The Visitor Center, The Arch Store, “Monument to the Dream” documentary film and riverfront via the Arch Grand Staircase will remain available to visitors. Tram rides will resume in spring 2017. “During this time, visitors can experience the Arch in a variety of ways,” says Rhonda Schier, Chief of Museum Services and Interpretation at Jefferson National Expansion Memorial. “Inside the Visitor Center, they can learn about the history of the Arch from National Park Service rangers; shop for westward expansion and Archrelated merchandise at The Arch Store; and watch

the newly digitized and restored award-winning documentary movie ‘Monument to the Dream’ at no charge, which chronicles the construction of the Gateway Arch.” The Old Courthouse will continue to operate normally and offers museum exhibits as well as interpretive programming. “We encourage everyone to visit the Old Courthouse to view free exhibit galleries focusing on early St. Louis, Lewis and Clark’s Corps of Discovery expedition and the settlement of the Great Plains; restored original courtrooms; and an exhibit focused on Dred and Harriet Scott,” says Schier. “Visitors can also participate in living history events with mock trials in the Old Courthouse’s restored courtrooms.”

Local business join in Shoeboxes for Seniors 2016 holiday drive Last year’s generous response of donations and support from the community and the warm positive effect the gifts boxes had on seniors has led to the continuation of the Shoeboxes for Seniors drive again this year. There are many local seniors who are living alone and unfortunately without family support. The simple things we take for granted every day brings great joy to someone when that wrapped shoebox is opened. Once again Robinwood Automotive is partnering with Dr. Robyn Lawrence and Get Well Family Chiropractic with a holiday drive for senior citizens. It is a simple idea of taking a shoe box, filling it with useful items, wrapping them up and giving them as gifts to our older adults. Here is the wish list of items for the shoe boxes: gloves, scarves, stocking hats, socks, tooth brushes, tooth paste, deodorant, bar soap, shampoo, hair conditioner, body wash, combs, hair brushes,

hand lotion, powder, disposal razors and shaving cream. To sweeten the boxes, candy bars, holiday candy, small packages of cookies and gum will also be collected. A $5 gift certificate to fast food restaurants is something they would also enjoy. If you want to make a monetary donation, the money will be used to purchase items to fill the boxes. Shoe boxes are also needed. There will be two drop off locations: Robinwood Automotive at 803 S. Florissant Road in Ferguson, 314-524-3440; or Get Well Family Chiropractic, Dr. Robyn Lawrence’s new office location at 580 N Hwy 67, Suite #5 in Florissant, 314-524-2580. Please drop off your donations by Dec. 16. The shoe boxes will be distributed to seniors by the Saint Vincent De Paul Society of Blessed Teresa of Calcutta Church at their food pantries along with other local churches and organizations just in time for Christmas.

THEATER REVIEW:

By Christy Parks

‘Fun Home’ is a riveting production that hooks you with its honesty

A guided tour of six Louisiana Churches decorated for the holidays. Listen to beautiful music performed at each location Begins at 3 p.m. at the Bethel AME Church located at 6th and Tennessee.

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I went to this new production of “Fun Home” at the Fox Theatre without any preconceived notions and had not done a lot of prior research. I knew that it was about the different stages of a young girl’s life and that much like the title, it looked light-hearted and “fun.” I began to realize that “Fun Home” (winner of five 2015 Tony Awards including Best Musical) was going to go much deeper in to one family’s story. Adapted from Alison Bechdel’s novel, the story is set in three ages of one woman’s life with the

adult Alison peering over the shoulder of her former selves. We also get to watch the transparency of her parents through grown-up eyes. This is a fresh musical that hooks you in from the very beginning with its honesty. It is moving and funny while showing all the attributes of truth, love and acceptance. While the overall tone of the show is desolation, there are also infectious moments of joy and laughter. It kept me wanting more and had me engaged throughout the entire production.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • November 30, 2016

Monsanto awards Hazelwood robotics teams a $14,500 grant

Photo courtesy Hazelwood School District Hazelwood Central High School RoboHawks received a total of $9,500 from the Monsanto Fund, the philanthropic arm of Monsanto.

The Hazelwood School District (HSD) robotics teams, the RoboHawks and Shrapnel Sergeants received a total of $14,500 from the Monsanto Fund, the philanthropic arm of Monsanto. The money received through this grant will help with supplies and parts for the robots, along with paying for registration fees for competitions. The Hazelwood Central High School RoboHawks received a total of $9,500 and the Hazelwood West High School Shrapnel Sergeants received a total of $5,000. Matthew McClellan, HSD special areas coordinator, was thrilled to hear that HSD robotics teams would be receiving this grant. The RoboHawks and Shrapnel Sergeants will use support from the Monsanto Fund grant to participate in FIRST Robotics and its educational programs and competitions. FIRST challenges teams comprised of students to design, build and

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program their own robots to perform prescribed tasks against a field of competitors – immersing young students in real-world engineering experiences. “STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) skills are essential for today’s young people, who in the near future will be the generation driving innovation and overcoming challenges through big ideas,” said Michelle Insco, Monsanto Fund program officer. “Monsanto Fund is committed to investing in the next generation of scientists and engineers through hands-on education programs like FIRST Robotics.” The Monsanto Fund, the philanthropic arm of the Monsanto Company, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening the communities where farmers and Monsanto Company employees live and work.

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Fleurissant Parc Place building in Florissant is now being used as training site for first responders A Florissant real estate development at 1475 Carla Drive that has been in limbo for eight years has found a vibrant new use as a training site for first responders. Members of the Florissant Fire Protection District, Black Jack Fire Protection District and Florissant Police Department are using the formerly derelict structure that was part of the Fleurissant Parc Place development to train first responders for real-life situations. Greg Raftery, secretary to the president of the InternationPhoto courtesy city of Florissant al Painters and Allied Trades Florissant Valley fire Protection District works on the building at 1475 Carla Drive that will be Union, has coordinated with used as a training site for first responders. Florissant resident and community supporter Rick Phillips of All-American city administrators and for residents in nearby Painting Contractors to provide union painters. homes and apartments. They will be spray painting more than 200 gallons While the three-story building is structurally of paint on the exterior of the three-story complex. sound, the Florissant Valley Fire Protection DisSteve Goldenberg and Milton Goldenberg of trict and Black Jack Fire Protection District are at Golden Management, owners of the property, have work removing windows and doors and replacing generously agreed to allow the use of the building them with painted plywood to protect the buildto first responders and also are donating the paint. ing from the weather and unauthorized personnel. Appropriate signage to identify the purpose of the They also are cleaning out the inside of the strucsite also is being donated. ture. Even with the unsightly look of the building, Senator Emeritus Tim Green, governmental af- it has remained structurally solid and the interior fairs director of the Electrical Connection for the has remained in good shape. International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers “We are delighted that Golden Management has (IBEW) Local 1, is securing high-lift platforms. generously agreed to allow first responders to use KB Electric Company, another community sup- this location as their First Responders Training porter from Florissant, is supplying and installing Center,” said Florissant Mayor Thomas P. Schneisecurity lighting for the building. Chuck Barcom, der. “The use of this building by first responders owner of Meridian Waste Management, is do- from the Florissant Fire Protection District, Black nating use of a construction dumpster for use by Jack Fire Protection District and Florissant Police workers. Department is an excellent and very important Use of the building by first responders has en- utilization for the facility. It also contributes to abled the city of Florissant to solve a problem that the safety of our residents and those throughout has been a source of annoyance for years both for North County.”

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School

November 30, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Bermuda and Central Elementary Schools receive 2016 Let’s Move! national award Bermuda and Central Elementary Schools have been honored with the 2016 Let’s Move! Active Schools National Award for their outstanding efforts in creating an active school environment. Let’s Move! Active Schools is part of First Lady Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move! initiative. The Let’s Move! Active Schools National Award is the nation’s top physical education and physical activity distinction for K-12 schools and celebrates a school’s

commitment to providing students with at least 60 minutes a day of before, during and after school physical activity. Only 544 schools across the country achieved this prestigious honor in 2016. “I would like to congratulate Bermuda and Central Elementary Schools for their outstanding work last year with their wellness initiatives. The physical education instructors/wellness champions did an amazing job with their assessments and executing action plans that benefited Ferguson-Florissant School District Photo courtesy Ferguson-Florissant School District students,” said Cedric Brown, the district’s wellness coordina- FFSD’s Wellness Coordinator Cedric Brown (center) congratulates wellness champions from Bertor. “Additionally, I would like to muda - Carl Davis (left) and Central - Devin Bryant (right) for their schools receiving the 2016 thank the principals of Bermuda Let’s Move! award. and Central for their support and dedica“We commend Bermuda and Central Elementary tion to the Healthy Schools Healthy Com- Schools’ model work around enhancing physical edumunity grant, because without their leader- cation and physical activity opportunities and inspiring ship and support, their champions would students to go from zero to sixty both in the classroom not be able to do these good works for our and in life,” said Charlene R. Burgeson, Let’s Move! Acstudents.” tive Schools executive director. Both of these schools are Powered by a national collaborative of leading the way in this generation-changing movement leading health, education and private sector that is transforming our nation’s schools into active and organizations, Let’s Move! Active Schools healthy hubs.” equips schools with the resources, proTo earn a Let’s Move! Active Schools National Award, grams, professional development and grants a school must have met significant benchmarks in five to increase physical education and physical areas: physical education, physical activity before and activity opportunities for students, and to after school, physical activity during school, staff incultivate an active school environment. volvement and family and community engagement.

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FFSD awards 2016-17 educational technology grants

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The Ferguson-Florissant School District has awarded educational technology grants to Commons Lane Elementary School and the Challenger Learning Center. The district’s Technology Services department sponsors the competitive grants. Commons Lane and the Challenger Center were among 12 buildings that submitted proposals for funding. Commons Lane will receive $8,300 to purchase MP3 players called Playaways, which are audiobooks, and a 3D printer. By purchasing over 100 audiobooks, students will be allowed to listen to literature that they would not have had the opportunity before. Once the novel is complete, they will have an opportunity to create a 3D artifact from the book using the 3D printer. “Many students want to read books outside of their reading level,” said Heather Carroll, principal of Commons Lane. “Our goal is to create technology proficient students and increase both academic and physical fitness.” Playaways offers mobility for students, who will be encouraged to walk as they listen to books to increase physical activity. The Challenger Learning Center will use its $8,875 technology grant to purchase two 3D printers and develop programs that support the district’s efforts to utilize innovative applications of technology. The printers will be primar-

ily utilized in school-based programs including simulated space missions and related workshops. They will also be integrated into other educational programs including summer camps and family workshops. “The 3D printers will be utilized in the simulated space missions in a similar way that is currently taking place in real life. In 2014, NASA created its first 3-D printed item, leading the way for further developments. In the mission, students could encounter an emergency situation that would require creating a tool or small piece of hardware to make a repair. The instructions and guidance could be provided by students in mission control to the spacecraft, where the object would be printed and installed,” said Tasmyn Front, director of the Challenger Learning Center. “This type of collaboration and communication not only emphasizes teamwork and communication, it also provides experiences that are very similar to the real world, giving students confidence and interest in pursuing degrees and/ or careers in the STEM field.” Richard Miller, the district’s director of Technology Services, along with other staff members, recently visited each site to announce their selection as grant recipients. Technology Services provides educational technology grants each year to support programs within the district.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • November 30, 2016

Hazelwood students learn mindful problem solving through the game of chess Hazelwood Southeast Middle School (SEMS) students are learning conflict resolution, through the game of chess. The Mindful Problem Solving Group is a school-based primary prevention program, which offers practical skills for helping young men learn how to think through and resolve everyday conflicts. Bryan Turner, home school communicator at SEMS, started the Mindful Problem Solving Group, and stresses that chess teaches empathy. “You have to think about why your opponent made the move that they chose. Chess also shows students that every action creates a reaction,” said Turner. “Chess encourages students involved in conflicts to slow down, stop and think to consider the results of alternative actions.”

Photo courtesy Hazelwood School District Students in the Mindful Problem Solving Group challenge each other during a game of chess.

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Two Hazelwood East students awarded more than $400,000 in scholarships Hazelwood East seniors Jada Phillips and Royshawn McClain were recently awarded $462,000 in scholarships from the Infinite Scholar College Fair. Phillips received $262,000 and McClain received $200,000 in scholarship money. To qualify for these scholarships, Phillips and McClain had to submit their grade point average and American College Testing Program (ACT) scores. Hazelwood East College Counselor Sonya Smith was overjoyed to hear about the scholarships that her students received. “These students received valuable scholarships to some of the best universities in the country,” said Smith. “They put in a lot of hard work to receive these scholarships and I am proud of Phillips and McClain. They represent the very best of Hazelwood East.” Phillips and McClain are still undecided on what university they will be attending, next fall. The mission of the Infinite Scholars Program is to provide deserving students, especially fi-

Photo courtesy Hazelwood School District

nancially-disadvantaged students and students of diversity, the guidance and access to financial resources they need to further their education and pursue degrees at institutions of higher education. www.bridgeatflorissant.com

Student recognizes principal for recognizing diversity Hazelwood West High School senior, Shahd Alyasiry, recently reached out to Hazelwood School District Administrators to recognize West High Principal, Dennis Newell for his openness towards different cultures. Newell recently attended a worship service at the invitation of several of his students, who are Muslim. “The Muslims here at Hazelwood West wanted to recognize Mr. Newell for his openness and how he honors diversity,” said Alyasiry. “Mr. Newell takes time from his day to supPhoto courtesy Hazelwood School District port his students, despite their West High Principal Dennis Newell was recently recognized by senior, Shahd Alyasiry for his different beliefs.” Newell joined in on a service openness towards different cultures. Newell recently attended a worship service at the invitation of several of his students, who are Muslim. during the Eid al-Adha Holiday. Eid al-Adha commemorates when God apNewell’s cultural awareness and willingpeared to Abraham. The day begins with morn- ness to recognize diversity, represents what the ing prayers. The celebrations continue with visits Hazelwood School District is known for. Accordto friends and family, exchange of gifts and feasts. ing to Samantha Anth, director for Gifted EduDuring his visit to the mosque, Newell ran into cation and English Language Learners, over 50 several of his former students all of whom were different languages are represented throughout happy and surprised to see him there. the Hazelwood student body, teachers and staff. “I felt quite welcomed when I visited the “We are honored that Mr. Newell attended our mosque,” said Newell. “Other worshippers in- special day. This is just another reason that the cluding, my former students came up to welcome students at West High are proud to have him for me and thank me for attending.” a principal,” said Alyasiry.

Sports

November 30, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Sports you see with Gary B...

www.seniorshelpingseniors.com/stlouiscentral

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

UMSL soccer players achieve excellence in the classroom and on the field University of MissouriSt. Louis senior defenders Evan Garrad and Joe Rund have been named to the 2016 CoSIDA Academic All-America Division II Men’s Soccer First Team, as selected by the College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA). Garrad owns a 3.98 grade point average in biochemistry/biotechnology, while Rund sports a 4.00 GPA in biology. Both players started all 18 games in the backfield, helping the Tritons to five shutouts and a 10-7-1 record. The duo become the first Academic All-Americans in men’s soccer in school history and are the first players to earn First Team Academic AllAmerica honors since David O’Gorman (men’s tennis) in 1992. UMSL now has 18 Academic AllAmericans in school history. Thirteen of the 33 members of the 2016 CoSIDA Academic All-America NCAA Division II men’s soccer teams have at least a 3.90 GPA, with four student-athletes maintaining a perfect 4.00 GPA. The 11 members of the first team have an average GPA of 3.91. * These are real sports’ mentors Very successful Guns ‘N Hoses still going strong after 30 years The BackStoppers will be the recipients of the money raised to support our fallen first responders’ families. The event was very successful with an overflow attending at the Scottrade Center on Thanksgiving Eve. One figure that stands out was the 50/50 raffle where there was over $51,000 collected and a lucky winner walked out with winnings of half that amount. There were 11 boxing matches and four of the recently added mixed martial arts. Local first responder participants included police officers from: O’Fallon, Michael Livia; Wentzville, Anthony Morris; St. Charles, Josh Davis; Overland, Joe Judge and Hazelwood, Ryan Counterman.

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The lone firefighter from our area was Cody Woolbright from the Cottleville Fire Protection District. The event is one of the largest in the nation. Go to www.STLGunsnHoses.com for all the details. * BackStoppers have the first responders back Basketball looks good early for Lindenwood The Lindenwood men’s basketball team is off to a 6-2 start to the young 2016-17 season. The Lions won their first three games until they fell to Simon Fraser twice. However, they’ve bounced back with victories over Douglas College, Langara College and Hannibal-LaGrange. Sophomore Chandler Diekvoss leads the team with 14.3 points per game while ranking second with eight rebounds per contest. The Lions return to action on Wednesday at 7 p.m. from Hyland Arena to face Robert Morris of Springfield. For more information, go to www.LindenwoodLions.com * Thanks to Andrew P. Morris of Lindenwood Sports Information for the information The Ambush soccer team looking for first win The St. Louis Ambush are a professional indoor soccer team that play in the Major Arena Soccer League (MASL) with their home games at the Family Arena in St. Charles. In their first two contests the team was unable to walk into the locker room with a win. Their last two games were against a team that has won both of their games, the Chicago Mustangs. Saturday’s contest saw the visiting contenders walk to a 7-4 victory. On Sunday, the Ambush had to travel to the Mustangs’ home field, but with the same result. The Ambush had the lead most of the afternoon; however, the Chicago team scored in overtime to take a 6-5 victory. For information go to www.STLAmbush.com * The first one will be the sweetest 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 30, 2016

Recipe: Lend a Helping Ham Preparing the perfect ham for all of your holiday guests to share can feel like a lot of pressure, but complementing the main dish with sides, snacks and desserts can help take a bite out of that overwhelming feeling. To help fill out your dinner table this holiday season, start with a crowd-pleasing appetizer like

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.

Bacon and Cheddar Ranch Dip that can ease everyone into the meal. Serve up a tasty side, such as Balsamic Glazed Roasted Root Vegetables, so that the ham doesn’t stand alone. Then, just as dinner’s grasp wears away, treat your guests to White Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn Bark as a delightful holiday sendoff.

Bacon and Cheddar Ranch Dip I ngredients: 1 cup ranch dressing chopped bacon, to taste shredded cheddar cheese, to taste assorted dippers Directions: Combine ranch dressing with chopped bacon and shredded cheddar cheese, to taste. Serve immediately with assorted dippers. Variations: To achieve different flavored dips, use any of the following mix-ins in place of bacon and cheddar cheese: Avocado, Basil and Parmesan cheese, Sriracha, Barbecue sauce, Dill pickles, Chili pepper and lime, Shredded chicken and hot sauce, Cilantro and jalapenos, Garden vegetables, Roasted garlic, Caramelized onions and Worcestershire sauce

Balsamic Glazed Roasted Root Vegetables Recipe courtesy of Circulon Gourmet Cookware

Ingredients: 2 onions, quartered 10 cloves garlic, unpeeled 2 cups carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces 1 celery root, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces 2 parsnips, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces 3 turnips, peeled and cut in half to about 2-inch pieces 1-2 sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 3-inch pieces 1 cup winter squash, peeled and cut into 2-inch cubes

2-3 potatoes, cut into 2-inch quarters 1-2 white or gold beets, peeled and quartered 2 tablespoons olive oil salt pepper 3 sprigs rosemary 3 sprigs thyme sheet pan Glaze: 2 tablespoons oil 3 tablespoons maple syrup 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar 1/2 teaspoon rosemary

Directions: Heat oven to 425 F. Combine vegetables, olive oil, salt, pepper, rosemary and thyme; toss well. Spread on sheet pan. Cover and bake 40 minutes. Check vegetables and cook another 5 minutes, if needed, or until vegetables are tender but not mushy. Remove rosemary and thyme; add salt and pepper. Combine glaze ingredients and cook 5-10 minutes until thickened. Pour over vegetables before serving; stir to combine.

See solution on page 13

Crossword Puzzle – Theme: Holiday Movies ACROSS 1. Group of pupils 6. Fossil fuel 9. Dust arachnid 13. Abdominal muscle, pl. 14. Grass bristle 15. Like a ballerina 16. Deflect 17. *She played wife and mom in 21 Across 18. Lazybones 19. *It happened on 34th Street 21. *Nicholas Cage ‘s “The ____ Man” 23. Wednesday’s child issue? 24. Mouthful, swallowed 25. ____ Francisco 28. ____ Verde National Park 30. Adorn the halls with holly, e.g. 35. Singer Tori 37. Jailbird’s home 39. Tax of one tenth 40. Popular e-reader 41. DNA half 43. Inmate’s weapon 44. Loose-fitting top 46. “____ and sound” 47. Performed alone, pl. 48. Madison Square Garden and STAPLES Center, e.g. 50. Snouts or beaks 52. *”____ Takes a Holiday” with Basil Rathbone (1930) 53. Inoffensive manner 55. Long time 57. *Jim Carrey’s green grump 60. *Holiday movie time traveler 64. Courtroom excuse 65. Bo Peep’s follower 67. Bus commuter 68. Object of Tiny Tim’s affection 69. Corn piece 70. Twig of a willow tree 71. Aquatic snakes 72. Pastrami partner 73. Proceeds DOWN 1. Pack like sardines 2. Denim innovator 3. Maple, to a botanist 4. Scarecrow stuffing 5. “The Goldbergs,” e.g. 6. Arc de Triomphe, e.g. 7. Leave speechless

8. Big mess 9. Between mini and maxi 10. Short for “it will” 11. He plus she 12. “Ever” to a poet 15. Marine gastropod 20. Olden day blood-drawing equipment 22. Priest’s vestment 24. Like a knight in shining armor? 25. *Billy Bob Thorton’s was bad 26. Love, to Napoleon and Josephine 27. Nobody 29. ____ Candies, chocolatier 31. Treat without respect 32. ____ vs. pathos 33. Popular cook-off dish 34. *”Home Alone” main character 36. *Jim Carrey’s was green when he stole Christmas

38. *It’s wonderful? 42. Three-masted vessel 45. Tabby’s favorite herb 49. Pollen ____ 51. Feeling at a funeral 54. Holiday feeling 56. Hustle and bustle sound 57. Tar to feathers 58. Tiny river 59. Wading bird 60. Dried up 61. Norse deity 62. Turned to the right 63. Makes mistakes 64. Gobbled up 66. *”Jingle All the ____” See answers on page 13

What’s Happening

November 30, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Send your event to editor@mycnews.com and we'll print it! EVENTS 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. 1. Christmas luncheon

Taille de Noyer has been decorated in her holiday finery for the annual Christmas luncheon. Seating is at 11 a.m., 12:15 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. Following lunch (or before if you arrive early) guests are invited to tour all four floors of Taille, a more than 200 year old home that is the headquarters of the Florissant Valley Historical Society. Tickets are $15 each and reservations are necessary. You can order tickets by sending your check to Florissant Valley Historical Society, P.O. Box 298, Florissant, MO 63032. Reservations can also be made by calling Mary Kay at 314-409-9478, Pat at 314-440-2344 or Vicky at 314-496-2319. Please specify seating time when making reservations. Tickets will be held at the door. Seating is limited, please make reservations early.

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 314-831-6121.

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 314-9214466 or JFK Center at 314- 921-4250.

Dec. 3: Holiday concert

The Bel Canto Chorus of Saint Louis Holiday Concert, featuring “Magnificat” by Charles T. Pachelbel along with seasonal anthems and carols, takes place at 4 p.m. at Christ Church Cathedral at 1210 Locust in St. Louis.

Dec. 3: Spaghetti dinner fundraiser

Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser for St. Barnabas’ Episcopal Church’s 60th Anniversary Celebration will take place from 4 to 7 p.m. at 2900 St. Catherine in Florissant. Cost for adults is $10 and for children is $5. The menu is spaghetti, salad, garlic bread, beverage and dessert. Eat in or carry out.

Dec. 3: Christmas in Old Town

The city of Florissant and Old Town Partners will be hosting “Christmas in Old Town with Santa” from 2 to 4:30 p.m. in the Florissant City Council Chambers. There will be light refreshments and snacks to enjoy. Santa Claus will be there and fun activities are planned like face painting, a clown making balloon animals, music, storytelling and children’s crafts. Many of the retail shops and restaurants will be open in Old Town so you can enjoy dining, shopping and all the holiday festivities. At 5:15 p.m. the annual tree lighting ceremony will take place on the front lawn of city hall. From the city hall balcony Mayor Schneider and the 2016 Valley of Flowers Queen Katie Wissler and her court will do the honors of switching on the Christmas lights to official start the holiday season. For more information contact Old Town Partners at 314-837-0033 or visit their website at www.florissantoldtown.com.

Dec. 6: Wine tasting

Holiday wines with five-plus wines that pair with holiday foods including dessert, ham and turkey at 1970 Trotterway in Florissant. Cost is $20 per person. RSVP with Karen M Eye at 314-550-1641 or thevinoexperience@ att.net.

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. 7: Benefit concert

Beyond Housing presents the Home for the Holidays Benefit Concert featuring hip-hop violinist and “America’s Got Talent” finalist Damien Escobar and renowned St. Louis soul artist Brian Owens at the Sheldon Concert Hall at 3648 Washington Blvd. in St. Louis from 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. Proceeds go towards a variety of Beyond Housing’s programs geared towards helping thousands of people in St. Louis. Tickets are now on sale and start at $35. To purchase tickets or for more information visit www.beyondhousing.org/ home-for-the-holidays.

Dec. 8: Knee pain seminar

If you have chronic knee pain, you need to know your treatment options for managing your pain. Join William Schroer, MD, SSM Health DePaul Hospital orthopedic surgeon, for an informative discussion on treatments for knee pain 8 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the May Conference Center at SSM Health DePaul Hospital. He will explain non-surgical and surgical procedures, including the latest techniques and newest technology. Here’s your chance to truly understand the options when it comes to managing knee arthritis pain. Enjoy a light dinner and ask questions about treatment options for knee pain. The program is free, but space is limited and reservations are required. Please call 1-866-SSMDOCS (1-866-776-3627) to register by phone or register online at ssmhealth. com/orthopedics.

Dec. 10: Pinewood derby

The First Annual FYI Pinewood Classic at the Ferguson Community Center (located at 1050 Smith Ave. in Ferguson) starts at 1 p.m. Shape a block of wood into a sleek racing machine or showcase your creativity in the design competition. Registration is now open. All entries come with a car. Visit http:// fyifergyouth.org/fyipinewoodclassic/ for rules and sponsorship information. This event will feature three derbies, on a four-lane track beginning with the Teen Classic for ages 13 – 19 (entry fee is $5) from 1 until 3 p.m. Next, the Open Adult Classic will kick-off at 4 until 6 p.m. (entry fee $30), and No-Go Concept Competition will also take place during the event.

Dec. 10: Visit with Santa

Visit with Santa at Sunset Park Nature Lodge from 9:00 - 10:30 a.m. You may obtain tickets by showing your resident card and paying $1 or donating one canned food item per ticket. Only Florissant residents may purchase tickets. A limited number of tickets will be available. Tickets are available at the JFK or JJE centers. Light refreshments will be provided. Bring a camera for a photo with Santa at the beautiful Sunset Park Nature Lodge. For more information call 314-921-4250 or 314921-4466.

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. 10-11: Overland candlelight tour

Overland Historical Society’s Annual Candlelight Tour takes place Dec. 10 and Dec. 11 from 3-7 p.m. at the northeast corner of Lackland Rd. and Gass Ave. Cathy Lee Doll Hospital Antique Dolls displayed along with replicas of Victorian dresses by Dr. Denise Dietsch. Linda Schuetz will demonstrate quilting and Santa and Mrs. Claus are stopping by. Hot mulled apple cider and homemade cookies will be served. Donations are $3 for adults and children under 16 years of age are free.

Dec. 12: Christmas house decorating contest

Applications are free to Florissant residents and are available at the James J. Eagan Center, JFK Community Center and Florissant City Hall. Parks and recreation prizes are awarded to the best decorated homes. Temporary yard signs acknowledging first, second and third-place winners will be posted. The city will remove the signs within one week. Deadline to apply is Dec. 12 at 5 p.m. Judging will begin at 6 p.m. on Dec. 14.

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. 15: Letters from Santa

For a personal reply from Santa, send a self-addressed stamped envelope to: Santa c/o JFK Community Center, 315 Howdershell Road, Florissant MO 63031. Please include some personal information about the child. Santa will respond with personal letters throughout the holiday season. All letters need to be received by Dec. 15 for Santa to have enough time to reply.

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 314615-7430 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 314-615-4516. Mondays: A cappella singers

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

Tuesdays: Choir rehearsals

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

Tuesdays: Lung cancer support group

Beginning on Dec. 2 and continuing through Dec. 16 a barrel for the Sharing and Caring Food Drive will be placed at the Florissant City Hall, the James J. Eagan Center (Parker and Waterford Roads) and the JFK Community Center (Howdershell and Charbonier). All residents are encouraged to donate non-perishable and canned food donations. These donations will be given to organizations and food pantries within the city limits of Florissant. For further information, please call 314-921-4466 or 314-9214250.

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.

Dec. 31: Support group beginning

Tuesdays: TOPS (Take off pounds sensibly)

Dec. 16: Food drive

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 mid-January and continue through mid-April. Volunteers can choose where they would like to help out

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.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • November 30, 2016 Wednesdays: Are you interested in losing weight?

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

Every Wednesday: Bingo Morning at Florissant Elks Lodge #2316

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

Bridgeton Trails Library Branch Programs:

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

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

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

Thursdays: Blood pressure checks

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

Thursdays: meeting

Women’s

chorus

Every Thursday City Voices Chorus, a women’s chorus singing four-part a cappella harmony, meets at Church of the Good Shepherd at 1166 S. Mason Rd. in St. Louis. Members come from the entire bi-state region. Call Marcia at 636-274-0723 for more information or visit www.cityvoiceschorus.org.

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

CHURCH

Hospital: Call 314.653.5032

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

Nicotine Anonymous

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 314-291-3021 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.

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

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

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 Rd., Florissant, 9am, 314.355.1516, SUDOKU answers from page 11

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

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

CROSSWORD answers from page 11

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

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:

Sundays: meeting

Nutrition Education:

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.

ONGOING SUPPORT GROUPS

Mother of Good Counsel Home, 6825 Natural Bridge, St. Louis, 10:30am 314.383.4765

Diabetes Basics:

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

Do-Dads

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

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

Last Saturdays: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group:

Sundays: Alcoholics Anonymous Group 109

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

Jennings

SilverSneakers Senior Wellness Program at the Maryland Heights Centre

Speaker’s Bureau:

Helpline 800.272.3900

Wednesdays: STEPS Schizophrenia Support Group

Every 3rd Friday of the month: Bingo

10am - 1:30pm, Baden Liberary, 8448 Church Rd., 314.388.2400

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.

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

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

6:30 - 7:30pm, 314.839.3171.

Last Saturdays: Writers Workshop:

Look Good…Feel Better

Free Mammogram Screenings:

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

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

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

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 314822-2066 or visit WWW.NicotineAnonymous.org.

What’s Happening

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

Christian Center:

Hospital

Recovery

Outpatient mental health and substance abuse treatment for adults, 314.953.8100. www.naa.org

Volunteers Needed at Christian

www.newspapermedia.com

November 30, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

HELP WANTED

NOVENA

SERVICES

PRAYER TO ST. JUDE

PET CEMETERY

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

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

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

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

www.everyonebenefits.com/GaryB

CLASSIFIED SPECIAL! For Garage Sales, Moving Sales, Yard Sales, or Sale of Items.

CALL 636-697-2414

STATEWIDE CLASSIFIEDS

Check it Out! www.MYCNEWS.com

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • November 30, 2016

LIEN SALE

CLASSIFIEDS

www.treesbywoody.net

www.scrubbydutch.com

www.HomeWashersStl.com

www.cozyhomecleaners.org

November 30, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Movie

“Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them”

By Steve Bryan

‘Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them’ is as fantastic as advertised J.K. Rowling is a writer who doesn’t waste a single word. Throughout the “Harry Potter” series, Rowling included details and places that seemed like throwaway references but later became important plot points. Wand lore and the fact that wands choose their wizards, for instance, helped defeat Lord Voldemort in the final novel. “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them,” the top box office draw in its opening weekend, started out as a simple reference in “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.” The title refers to one of Potter’s textbooks when he was studying at Hogwarts. In 2001, Rowling wrote the textbook under the pseudonym “Newt Scamander,” with a large portion of the proceeds from sales going to charity. In the film adaptation, Eddie Redmayne plays the globe-trotting “magizoologist,” who lands in New York for what should have been a brief time. His encounter with Jacob Kowalski (Dan Fogler) leads to his magical creatures escaping into the city. Newt and Jacob, classified a “no-maj” due to his lack of powers, do their best to round them up. In many ways, “Fantastic Beasts” answers several questions about the wizarding world created by Rowling. Gellert Grindelwald, an infamous dark wizard, plays a huge part in this story and the planned sequels. In the “Harry Potter” books, Grindelwald and Albus Dumbledore were friends who sought the Deathly Hallows, three objects that could make someone the “Master of Death.” Eddie Redmayne plays Newt Scamander as a somewhat offbeat wizard who passionately loves his magical creatures. Tina (Kather-

ine Waterston), a disgraced American auror, doesn’t quite know what to make of this wizard, but she learns he is a decent and sincere person. Tina allies herself with Newt and Jacob to round up the creatures. As a friend, none come better than Jacob Kowlalski. As played by Dan Fogler, Jacob learns to roll with the challenges of the wizarding world as they come at him hard and fast. Jacob also develops a very sweet relationship with Queenie (Alison Sudol), Tina’s sister who can “read” a person’s history by looking at them. For those who devoured the seven original novels and related books, “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” is a wonderful continuation of the series. J.K. Rowling is an excellent author, skillfully tying Harry Potter’s story to Newt’s. It’s a more mature film that the previous movies, but one that is certainly satisfying and intriguing. “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them,” rated PG-13 for some fantasy action violence, currently is playing in theaters. “Fantastic Beasts & Where to Find Them’” photos courtesy Warner Bros. 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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