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April 20, 2016

Boosted by the ballot Learn & Play

Balanced, flavorful meals

Community Voices

By Maida Coleman

Submitted photo Students in the Jennings School District will see more facility and program updates after a 71 percent voter approval of Proposition S. The $3 million bond will provide new flooring in the gymnasiums, playground safety upgrades, instructional equipment and supplies and other facility updates.

Voters approve several propositions that will give a financial lift to North County communities

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By Sara Hardin Several propositions passed in Ferguson, Florissant and Jennings on the April 5 ballot which will result in changes in the communities’ schools, businesses and infrastructures. Proposition E passed in Ferguson after 68.9 percent of residents voted for the Economic Development Sales Tax. The .5 cent tax will generate $1,225,000 annually. $800,000 of the generated funds will go toward general fund purposes and $425,000 will be used for capital improvement. Road and building maintenance, business recruitment and retention and police patrols in the business district will be supported by the tax increase. Proposition P failed receive the required 66.67 percent supermajority after only 56.8 percent of Ferguson residents voted in favor of the $0.40 per $100 Assessed Value property tax increase. The generated funds would have been used for general municipal purposes. “For our community to pass Proposition E with nearly 70 percent voter approval says our community is looking forward to moving forward,” said Ferguson Mayor James Knowles III. “We still have a long road ahead of us, and we know the council will have to make

some tough decisions over the next few months when it comes to our budget. But we are a resilient community and we will continue to move forward.” Jennings School District will see more facility and program updates after a 71 percent voter approval of Proposition S. The $3 million bond will provide new flooring in the gymnasiums, playground safety upgrades, instructional equipment and supplies and other facility updates. In Florissant, Propositions B.A.R. passed with 63-70 percent of voters in favor of each proposition. Proposition B, which passed with 70 percent approval, allows the city to continue collecting sales tax on motor vehicles bought from sources other than licensed Missouri dealers. Proposition A passed with 70 percent voter approval; the ordinance requires owners of residential structures in Florissant vacant for at least six months to pay a $200 annual registration fee. Florissant can better keep track of rental property owners with the passing of Proposition R, which increases the fee for a Residential Rental License of $50 per unit. The proposition was passed with a 63 percent voter approval rate. “We are delighted that the voters of

Florissant passed all three of these ballot measures with overwhelming majorities,” said Florissant Mayor Thomas P. Schneider. “Our city council unanimously recommended passage of all of these propositions in order to increase needed funding for the city’s rigorous code enforcement of vacant residential rental units as well as to continue to provide a level playing field for licensed automotive dealers in Missouri.”

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Around Town

Vol. 95 No. 16

In This Issue...

Around Town Crisis Nursery celebrates 30 years, raises $300,000 and more.

8 School Hazelwood high schools

maintain Project Lead the Way certification and more.

9 Business HBA donates $10,000 to St. Andrew’s Charitable Foundation and more.

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

12 What’s Happening 14 Classifieds 16 Movie “They Will Have to Kill

Talking with “Ethnic Mom” Lanie Kazan.

Follow us on www.pinterest.com/mycnews Get your event or good news published in Community News: email your information in calendar and article formats to editor@mycnews.com.

April 20, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Operation Food Search seeks spring and summer volunteers to assist with hunger relief Operation Food Search, a regional leader in hunger relief, nutrition education and advocacy, is grateful to its passionate and dedicated volunteers, who are essential to making a difference in hunger relief. The organization continues to grow its volunteer force and seeks spring and summer volunteers to help with food distribution, assist as cooking instructors, promote and support summer meals and help with special events. To learn more about volunteer opportunities visit www.OperationFoodSearch. org or contact Katie.Schneider@OperationFoodSearch.org or call 3140726-5355 ext. 21. “Volunteers have always been at the heart of Operation Food

Search. They are true heroes and the lifeblood of our organization,” said OFS executive director Sunny Schaefer. “Last year, 4,800 volunteers contributed more than 16,500 hours of service, saving us nearly $375,000 that we were able to use toward our programs and services! We are inspired daily by those who take part in an ongoing opportunity to help Operation Food Search provide food and essential nutrition services. We welcome individuals, groups and company employees to take action in helping us expand our capacity to feed more people and contribute to the health and wellbeing of our neighbors in need, especially children who are most vulnerable to the adverse effects of hunger and food insecurity.”

COMMUNITY VOICES The Public Service Commission plays a vital role in the lives of Missourians By Maida Coleman As a Commissioner at the Public Service Commission (PSC), we make decisions each day that affect the lives of Missourians in our state. It is a responsibility that I take very seriously and I work very hard to balance the interests of all that come before us. A vital part of our mission is consumer education and outreach. We believe it is important that consumers know who we are and what we do. I travel across the state attending local public hearings on cases before the commission, getting the chance to hear from you on how a proposed rate increase affects you and if you have any service related issues. Consumer testimony is an important part of our process and we appreciate people sharing their thoughts. At local public hearings, the PSC Staff conducts a question and answer session providing information about the commission, answering questions consumers might have about the PSC, or why a company has filed a rate case. There are a number of ways consumers can get information about the PSC.

Our website (www.psc.mo.gov) is a great source. We have several information sheets on a number of topics including the Cold Weather Rule; electric and natural gas safety; budget billing; and telephone assistance programs for low income and disabled Missourians. We also have a publication “A Guide To Help Manage Your Utility Services” as well as brochures on a number of topics including energy efficiency and your rights as a utility consumer. The commission also offers a free magazine (PSC Connection) which contains a number of interesting articles and information. That publication is available on our website or by contacting our Consumer Services Unit at 1-800-392-4211. The PSC is also very involved in communities throughout the state as part of our consumer education efforts. You may have seen us at energy, health and senior service fairs, or back-to-school fairs in your area. This is another venue to get information to you on what the PSC does and how what we do daily affects you and your family.

I hope to see you at one of these events soon. Former Senator Maida Coleman was appointed to the Missouri Public Service Commission (PSC) by Governor Jay Nixon, in August 2015. Prior to her appointment, Commissioner Coleman was the Director of the Office of Community Engagement. She previously served as Executive Director of the Missouri Workforce Investment Board at the Department of Economic Development, and in a leadership role at the Missouri Department of Labor. From 2001 until 2009, Commissioner Coleman served as a State Representative and State Senator from St. Louis, becoming the first African-American woman in state history to serve as Senate Minority Leader. Commissioner Coleman has a B.A. in Journalism from Lincoln University in Jefferson City and was awarded a Doctor of Humane Letters Degree from Harris-Stowe State University in St. Louis in 2008. The opinions expressed in this column are the columnist’s alone and do not reflect the opinion of the owners or staff of Community News.

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www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • April 20, 2016

Ferguson-Florissant School District Board of Education results announced Unofficial results of the April 5 election for the Ferguson-Florissant School District Board of Education indicate newcomer Connie Harge will join incumbent Leslie Hogshead on the Board for a three-year term. Harge received 36.48 percent of the vote, and Hogshead received 28.81 percent of the vote. Other candidates who sought election to the

board were Roger Hines, who received 23.26 percent of the vote, and Donna Dameron with 10.73 percent. Write-in votes accounted for 1.35 percent. The board will hold a reorganization meeting on April 20 following certification of the results by the St. Louis County Board of Election Commissioners.

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Celebrating Art for Senior Engagement Festival showcases art events throughout the St. Louis region Artists don’t retire. They keep on making art. And that’s what Celebrating Art for Senior Engagement, a 10-day festival April 28 through May 7, is all about. Celebrating Art for Senior Engagement, presented by Maturity and Its Muse, is showcasing art in all its forms with 80-plus events throughout the St. Louis region. Lynn Hamilton’s Maturity and Its Muse, that’s dedicated to improving the life of seniors through the arts has worked with 60 local venues to bring St. Louis 10 days of exhibits and art-related events to highlight how art improves the aging experience. As events are continuously being added and updated, you can find an up-to-date calendar online at maturityanditsmuse.org/calendar/. The majority of events will be free, however a few may cost or ask for pre-registration. Celebrating Art for Senior Engagement is the first area-wide festival dedicated to the St. Louis region’s older adult population. From St. Louis Art Museum to several area galleries, libraries, Laumeier Sculpture Park, Missouri Botanical Garden and more, arts events and programs can be found for people of all abilities and interests. “Artists have the ability to inspire all of us to try our hand at something we had always wanted to do. Whether that’s play a musical instrument, pick up a pencil and sketch, dig in the dirt, color

in a book…do something new,” said Lynn Hamilton, creator of Celebrating Art for Senior Engagement through her nonprofit Maturity and Its Muse. “This festival is about enjoying life and having fun.” Art can keep people young in spirit and recent discoveries show that when older people become involved in culturally enriching programs, they experience a decline in depression, are less likely to fall and pay fewer visits to the doctor. The goal of Celebrating Art for Senior Engagement is twofold: • To harness the power of the arts to energize and transform the quality of life for the region’s older adults. • To attract and help build audiences for the venues involved. “What’s great about Celebrating Art for Senior Engagement is it doesn’t matter what level anyone’s ability is,” Hamilton said. “Just because something may keep someone from singing or dancing on the outside, it’s still possible to have a song in one’s heart and dance on the inside. From watching a St. Louis Symphony rehearsal to listening to poetry readings to dancing and coloring, this festival incorporates all different aspects of the arts and some are participatory while others are not.”

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Saint Louis Crisis Nursery celebrates 30 years and raises $300,000 for child abuse prevention The Saint Louis Crisis Nursery celebrated its 30th anniversary at the sold-out 2016 Razzle Dazzle “Once Upon A Time” gala. Emceed by KMOV-TV’s Emily Rau and Andre Hepkins and joined by 600 community and business supporters, the Saint Louis Crisis Nursery raised $300,000 for its mission of child abuse prevention. At the magical and fairy-tale themed event, the Crisis Nursery gave H.U.G.S. & K.I.S.S.E.S. awards to organizations and volunteers that have impacted and helped the Crisis Nursery’s vision in saving babies’ lives. The Foundation of the Year award was presented to the Saigh Foundation with JoAnn Hejna and Mary Kemp accepting the award for the organization. Dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for children in the region, the Saigh Foundation’s generous gifts to the Nursery have helped to provide care for countless children living in the city of St. Louis. The Funder of the Year award was presented to the St. Louis County Children’s Service Fund (CSF). Accepted by CSF Board chair, Terry Crow and CSF’s Executive Director, Connie Cunningham; CSF has generously supported the care for children in St. Louis County, keeping them alive and safe. The Couple of the Year award was presented to Steve and Sally Mitchell for their personal commitment to the children and families served by the Crisis Nursery. The Mitchells generously support events, underwriting costs of important special projects around the Nursery, and volunteer their time to help with day-to-day activities. The Young Professional Hero Awards were presented to Celisia Harris and Shawn Vinson. Celisia, Business Manager for the Dr. Pepper Snapple Group serves as Secretary for the Nursery’s Young

Submitted photo Crisis Nursery Board President Jim Wagner (left) stands with Celisia Harris, winner of the Hero Award.

Professional Board and contributes her time volunteering, supporting events and advocating for the children of the Crisis Nursery. Shawn, President of Vinson Mortgage Group, also a member of the Young Professional Board devotes his time and energy working to help raise awareness about the Crisis Nursery in the region, encouraging others to “get involved.” “I’m so very grateful for the years of support from the community,” said DiAnne Mueller. “Saving babies’ lives and keeping kids safe has been our mission for 30 years and to see so many join us in this mission is amazing! It’s just not right for a child to go without diapers or formula and I’m glad we’re here making sure every child is safe.”

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April 20, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Christian Hospital president to receive 2016 Leadership Award North County Incorporated (NCI) is honoring Christian Hospital President Ron McMullen with the 2016 Elmer Belsha Leadership Award for his years of leadership, commitment to north St. Louis County, and his positive impact on the community. McMullen will receive the award at the NCI Annual Breakfast and Leadership Award Ceremony on May 13. McMullen has served as Christian Hospital president since 2007 and Submitted photo has been in leadership roles with BJC HealthCare since Christian Hospital President Ron McMullenrepresentative, Rep. Margo McNeil, after partici1983. pating in STEM Day at the Capitol on March 3.

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Florissant mayor meets with assistant labor secretary Mayor Thomas P. Schneider was invited to attend a roundtable discussion on March 30 with Assistant Secretary of the Department of Labor and former Congressman from Maine, Michael H. Michaud at the Missouri State Florissant Career Center. The topic of discussion was focused on job placement for veterans from Missouri and Illinois. Officials representing Missouri and Illinois Departments of Economic Development and Workforce Development as well as representatives of the US Military discussed broadening employ-

ment opportunities for veterans in Missouri and Illinois. Schneider noted that Florissant City Hall provides an office every Tuesday for a Veterans Affairs counselor to assist veterans and their families apply for the benefits they deserve. Schneider also put in a last minute plug to the Assistant Labor Secretary, who was appointed by the president, advocating for the St. Louis site for the Geospatial Mapping Agency, saying that it is vital for the economy of St. Louis and North St. Louis County.

VP Parade returns to Downtown St. Louis for 2016 event The Veiled Prophet Organization has officially announced that the 134th annual VP Parade will take place in Downtown St. Louis, returning America’s Biggest Birthday Parade to its original location after two years in Forest Park. The parade will begin at 7th and Market streets at 10 a.m. on July 2, kicking off a weekend of Independence Day celebrations. Fair St. Louis, set for July 2-4, will remain in Forest Park for 2016 and will feature three days of family-friendly activities, food, live music, fireworks, and more. “We are deeply grateful to Forest Park for its support in hosting the parade for the past two years,” said Jim Hetlage, Grand Marshal of the 2016 parade. “The parade has historically been a civic point of pride for the city of St. Louis. We are thrilled to return to downtown and work alongside Fair Saint Louis in Forest Park to host a true, city-wide Fourth of July celebration with these events.” “Big things are happening in Downtown St. Louis, and we are delighted the 2016 VP Parade will return to its traditional location in the heart of downtown, near the new National Blues Museum and CityArchRiver,” said city of St. Louis Mayor Francis Slay. Hetlage also announced that the theme of this year’s Parade is “Hats Off to Heroes.” “We are excited to present a tribute to Americans from all walks of life whose everyday contributions make them heroes in their communities,” he said. “The parade will celebrate heroes in every shape and form, from military officers and veterans, to first responders, to blue collar workers, to school teachers, to parents, and all those in between.” “The parade is a celebration of our city, our region and our country, and a symbol of pride of the St. Louis community,” said Missy Kelley, President

and CEO of the Downtown STL, Inc. “It’s an enduring tradition, and one of America’s oldest and largest Independence Day celebrations. We are proud to support it.” The parade will feature a procession of 130 units—including 14 major floats with live musical performances—that will march west on Market Street from 7th Street to 20th Street, involving more than 300 singers and dancers, giant helium balloons, community groups and military units. The celebration will also feature the 2016 Liberty Drum Challenge, one of the premier high school band competitions in the region, with 12 local high school bands competing for $10,000 in cash prizes. Changes to the 2016 Parade route from prior years will ensure safety for spectators in the midst of ongoing improvements and construction at the Gateway Arch and Kiener Plaza. The 2016 Parade will start at Kiener Plaza and pass by landmarks such as City Garden, the Carnahan Courthouse, City Hall, Peabody Opera House and Aloe Plaza. It will finish at the historic Union Station, located at 20th and Market. The Parade route will offer easy access for thousands of individuals and families to view the parade along Market Street. “The VP Organization and Fair St. Louis are working hand-in-hand with the National Park Service, St. Louis Police Department and Fire Department and other local, state, and federal agencies to ensure another safe and fun celebration,” said Mayor Slay. As always, parade officials will designate an accessible Special Needs Viewing Area for viewers with disabilities. Public parking information will be announced closer to the event. KMOV will broadcast the parade live from outside Union Station beginning at 10 a.m. on July 2.

Local Author Spotlight: Carolyn Mueller Carolyn Mueller was born and raised in St. Louis. Growing up an animal lover, she treasured her English Setter, found plenty of box turtles in the backyard and mourned a hamster or two. Naturally, the majority of her birthday parties were spent watching the animals of the Saint Louis Zoo. By happy accident, post-graduation, Carolyn was given the opportunity to become a Keeper in the Children’s Zoo. She fell in love with the daily routine of caring for the Zoo’s animals and working full-time for an organization that strives toward the conservation of endangered species as well as excellent standards of captive animal management. “Bubbles the Dwarf Zebu,” her first children’s book was published by Reedy Press in 2012. Carolyn’s other works include “Lily: A True Story of Courage and the Joplin Tornado,” inspired by Tara Prosser and her Weimaraner, Lily, and “Happy Birthday, St. Louis!,” a history of St. Louis for kids. Carolyn’s latest works are “Dizzy Dean and the Gashouse Gang,” which recounts the harrowing adventures of the 1934 St. Louis Cardinals, and “St. Louis Boo,” true St. Louis ghost stories for kids. Carolyn continues to balance her passions for zookeeping and writing. She enjoys working with lions, tigers, bears and more in her current position as a Carnivore Keeper and sharing her stories in the city of St. Louis.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • April 20, 2016

Around Town

By Cindy Moore

Moore On Life

Rolling in the green The first days of spring are upon us, which is giving someone a certain new “spring” in their step. That springy step belongs to my husband. He’s doing a happy dance in the living room, shaking his groove thang in the garage and will soon be arrested if he starts twerking in the grocery store aisles. Very embarrassing. What’s got his joints jitterbugging you ask? One word – lawn. Yes, he has finally uncovered the truth about turf! He can now qualify to wear the cape of, Captain Lawn Boy! Defender of growth and green, and together with his pre-emergent broadleaf herbicide, wage war against the likes of low-growing criminal life such as chickweed, spurge, dandelions, ragwort and evil crabgrass! For years, he has surrendered the care of his grass to the “experts” only to dismiss one lawn care company after another and in the process, forfeit chunks of money and patience. Time after time, the edges wouldn’t be treated, the green turned brown and the grubs marched boldly across the yard in battalions while the weeds formed roving gangs. They’d pop up everywhere and defy the weed whacker and brazenly resist Round Up. In desperation, my husband humbled himself and

consulted that all-knowing, powerful keeper of knowledge, the almighty omnipotent force…Google. (FYI: I’m confident God knows more. Just wanna get that on record so I won’t burn in the hereafter.) Finally, he found a sure-fire formula and set about to care for the greens himself. And then…boom! Christmas in April! We came home from being away for the weekend and drove past the usual houses in our neighborhood. My husband checked out the yards and commented on each. “The McMillen’s have got to water more. The Smith’s need to aerate. Those Jensen’s…need to give it up. They should pave it over and install Astroturf.” In the distance we saw a certain yard sprouting green-

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er and healthier grass than any other in the neighborhood. You could say it was even glowing. Even the Pilkinson’s, who usually have golf course quality lawn, couldn’t compare with this little patch of Eden. And who do you think owned that oasis? Us! My husband jumped out of the car and immediately put his dad dance grooves into motion. I hoped the neighbors had their blinds shut. So he’s got the lawn care thing down, but will need considerable help with his boogie woogie. Unfortunately that’s something even God or Google can’t help. 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.

By Christy Parks

‘Bridges of Madison County’ gets a confusing, middling debut at the Fox Theatre

Submitted photo

If you remember the timeless romantic tale of the 1995 movie “Bridges of Madison County” with Meryl Streep and Clint Eastwood, you also remember the forbidden love story of two lives that happened to cross paths with one another in the heart of Iowa. The book was on the New York Times best seller list for about three years and sold over 12 million copies. Now, the Broadway musical is offering a romantic tale that is much different than the book or movie. The simple stage set does give the feel of a small town atmosphere and has a lot of moving parts which are almost distracting at times. The flashbacks and the dual locations on the stage tend to be a little confusing. With the direct dialog and mention of a “covered bridge” as well as the title of the movie, the stage set of the actual “covered bridge” was disappointing. Elizabeth Stanley who played the lead role of Francesca was a little hard to understand at times especially when she was singing. But at the same time, it was understood that her character had an Italian accent. Francesca started off the show singing a song and the lyrics were not easily understood, thus hard to engage into the

first act of the show. Andrew Samonsky who played the handsome, well traveled photographer Robert, had a strong solid voice and showed a sincere passion toward Francesca’s character. There was a definite strong chemistry between the two characters on stage. The breath of refreshment came with Mary Callahan who played Marge. Her character at times gave life to the production when the show seemed to drag in other places. Some of the music seemed to be forced in with the dialog when it could have just as easily been spoken to better get the point across. Other times the musical numbers fit in very well. I did enjoy getting a little more background and the details of Francesca and Bud’s two children. The ending was confusing, especially if you have read the book or have seen the movie. Why change the story of such a beautiful, successful movie and book? Overall the production was well received but the audience around me stated that they were confused with the direction of the story line at times.

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April 20, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

21st Century grants are available in Missouri The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis (BGCSTL) is excited to announce that they are applying for a 21st Century Community Learning Center Program grant from the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education for a new club site in the Riverview Gardens School District. The 21st Century Community Learning Centers Program creates community learning centers that provide academic enrichment opportunities for children, particularly students who attend high poverty and low-performing schools, to offer students a broad array of en-

richment activities that can complement their regular academic programs. BGCSTL is dedicated to ensuring that our community’s youth have greater access to quality programs and services that will enhance their lives and shape their futures. For nearly 50 years, BGCSTL has provided a safe place for youth to learn and grow. Through the support of 21st Century Community Learning Centers, they can expand their reach and impact more youth to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens.

St. Louis Civic Pride Foundation announces Ultimate Tourist Contest for students

The St. Louis Civic Pride Foundation is inviting St. Louisans in grades three through 12 to participate in the 2016 Ultimate Tourist Contest, where they can win a $500 cash prize for visiting and writing about their area tourism experiences this summer. Participants must visit at least three St. Louis area attractions then write about their journeys through an essay (500 words or less) or by creating a brief video. Each entry will be judged on its own merits with the winners chosen by a selection commit-

tee comprised of St. Louis Civic Pride Foundation board members. The winning entries will be featured in Explore St. Louis’ 2017 Official Visitors Guide and posted on explorestlouis. com for a full year. The Ultimate Tourist Contest is open to students, ages 8 to 18 who will be entering grades three through 12 for the 2016-17 school year. Entries will be accepted from April 20 through Sept. 5. Limit one entry per student. For more information on contest rules, please visit explorestlouis.com/ultimatetourist.

Florissant recognized as a member of Tree City USA for the 27th year

Photo courtesy city of Florissant Pictured (from left) are Lisa Allen with Missouri Department of Conservation State Forestry and Florissant City Foresters Doug Shelley and Larry Gerst.

City’s Foresters Doug Shelley and Larry Gerst attended the 2016 Arbor Day Recognition Ceremony and Luncheon to honor the St. Louis area Tree City USA, Tree Campus USA and Tree Line USA recipients that was held at the LODGE Des Peres on April 1. This marks the 27th year that the city of Florissant has been recognized as being a member of Tree City USA.

The Tree City USA, Tree Line and Tree Campus USA programs are sponsored by the National Arbor Day Foundation in cooperation with the US Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters. These programs provide direction, technical assistance, public attention and national recognition for community forestry programs.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • April 20, 2016

Paint & Wine studios partner with ‘PAINT PAL’ program for nursing home residents

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Bringing the visual and sensory stimulation of colorful amateur paintings to our nursing home residents is the goal of the PAINT PAL program. Each resident chooses a painting of their preference from a selection to hang in their personal space and receives a greeting from an amateur artist. The PAINT PAL art program intent is to activate sensory development, stimulate resident conversations and individualize and brighten each room. The personal interaction lifts spirits and provides companionship from the PAINT PAL messages long after the visit. The Paint & Wine studios are sourcing the paintings with surplus instructor-led examples and acting as repositories for the ‘bring backs.’ Customers of the studio parties will be able to align with the nursing home program three ways: Opt to leave behind their art for the residents,

return previous art from parties-gone-by from any store, or simply leave a PAINT PAL note for a resident while onsite (supplied). The program is expecting a May launch servicing nursing homes as inventory expands.

Participating studios are: Pinot’s Palette All locations Metro Area St. Louis Painting with a Twist All locations Metro Area St. Louis Wine & Design 10212 Watson Road The Art Cellar on Main 205 Main St. That Painting Spot 12798 Olive Blvd.

Merger of Bilingual International Assistant Services and Center for Survivors of Torture and War Trauma announced Effective April 1 two local collaborative partners, Center for Survivors of Torture and War Trauma and Bilingual International Assistant Services, have united to support their common cause. Since the early 2000s, these nonprofit agencies have worked closely to help and heal immigrants and refugees in the St. Louis area and to offer assistance as they become successful contributors to the community. Going forward, Bilingual International Assistant Services will continue operations and management of the agency’s wellness, mental

health and social service programs for foreign born consumers, plus professional interpretation and translation services. The Center for Survivors of Torture and War Trauma programs shall continue to be run under the name “The Center for Survivors.” Facilities will continue to operate largely as they have, with only minor differences, if any, in service delivery. By joining forces, the two entities look forward to optimal support for new Americans in our community needing hope and healing.

Former Rams legends unite for last game at the Dome Former St. Louis Rams legends led by Isaac Bruce will reunite to compete in a flag football showdown at the Dome on July 23. Bruce will be joined by members of the Greatest Show on Turf including Kurt Warner, Dick Vermeil, Mike Martz, Orlando Pace, Mike Jones, Ernie Conwell and many more as well as other Rams legends including Marc Bulger and Aeneas Williams. The event will give the players a chance to thank fans and give St. Louis a chance to celebrate great memories. Tickets will go on sale April 21 at 10 a.m. on www.ticketmaster.com. Individual ticket prices are $15 and $20. Premium tickets that will include an on-field autograph session prior to the game are limited to 1,000 tickets and are on sale for $100. Kickoff for the game is set for 2 p.m. with gates opening at 12:30 p.m. The pregame autograph session for premium ticket holders will be from 11

a.m. - noon. “We’re excited to be able to bring together a bunch of the Greatest Show on Turf guys and other former Rams greats to be able to thank the fans for the incredible support over the years,” said Bruce. “We want to fill up the Dome one last time and really show everyone what an incredible sports city St. Louis is. We have the opportunity to raise a lot of money for the Isaac Bruce Foundation which we can then pour back into this great city and it’s really exciting.” Proceeds from the Legends of the Dome will benefit the Isaac Bruce Foundation which is committed to continuing to make an impact in the St. Louis community. Isaac launched the Isaac Bruce Foundation in 2006 which focuses on health, wellness, nutrition, fitness and education. Through the Foundation, Isaac reaches out to youth and teaches them at an early age the importance of a healthy lifestyle with an emphasis on education.

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April 20, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Hazelwood School District high schools maintain Project Lead the Way national certification Hazelwood Central, Hazelwood East and Hazelwood West high schools, earned recertification for their Project Lead The Way (PLTW) programs that were established in the Hazelwood School District in 2002. PLTW is a nonprofit organization and is the leading provider of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education programs, offering a rigorous curriculum that allows students to apply what they are learning in math and science to real-life engineering and technology projects. PLTW high school curriculum includes Pathway to Engineering and Biomedical Sciences. The PLTW recertification program recognizes

schools for successfully demonstrating a commitment to PLTW’s national standards, and for providing students with the opportunity to apply for college credit after completing select PLTW courses. The certification process involves a team of teachers, staff, students and members of the community who submit an assessment of the school’s implementation of the curriculum, and a site visit by a national PLTW certification team. Enrollment in PLTW courses has increased steadily in the district since the 2003-2004 school year. In 20152016, there were 691 high school students enrolled. Teachers are a critical component to the success of the program. All teachers are required to

complete intensive two-week professional development courses in the summer before they can teach a PLTW course. According to an Adecco Engineering & Technology report, currently there are almost two STEM job listings for every unemployed individual and 75 percent of the fastest growing occupations require STEM preparation. By 2018, there will be approximately 10 million new STEM jobs. PLTW was founded in 1997 in 12 high schools in New York. It has grown to more than 8,000 middle and high schools across the country, as well as affiliate colleges and universities.

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Ferguson Youth Initiative donates Kindles to Ferguson Middle School students

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Twelve Ferguson Middle School students are the recipients of brand-new Amazon Kindle readers. The Kindles were gifted to the students by the Ferguson Youth Initiative in collaboration with Project Hart, a non-profit student group from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. The Kindles were given to students who have read the most pages this year as part of the school’s Read 4000 Initiative and to those who have made the most gains as readers – they have embraced reading by moving from reading very few pages to many. The Wi-Fi equipped devices are loaded with age-appropriate free e-books and students will be able to load additional reading material that they purchase from Amazon. “This is an event that is exSubmitted photos tremely important to us,” said Ferguson Middle Students show-off the new Kindles they received as gifts. Jorian Heal, chief executive officer of Project Hart. “Our organization’s goal wealth of knowledge.” is to cultivate a love of reading and learning. The Kindles were presented to students durEach device is an opportunity for a child to have ing a reception at the Ferguson Youth Initiative at their disposal a resource that offers them a office.

Ferguson-Florissant superintendent reaches out to celebrities to support reading initiative

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Dr. Joseph Davis watched news coverage of Ferguson, Missouri, following the 2014 shooting death of Michael Brown, and decided to be part of the solution. Dr. Davis, then superintendent of a small school district in North Carolina, applied to be superintendent of the Ferguson-Florissant Schools outside St. Louis, because he believed improving schools is the most powerful way to strengthen a community in crisis. Last year, he accepted the job and moved to Ferguson with his wife and son. Today, Dr. Davis is reaching out to celebrities across the country – including some who were outspoken about the events in Ferguson – asking for their help. Superintendent Davis has launched a $2 million campaign to promote reading among the more than 11,000 students in the FergusonFlorissant School District, where 80 percent of students are African-American, and about 76 percent live in poverty. Dr. Davis has sent letters to 170 of the biggest names in movies, television, music and sports, requesting their personal and financial support. “I believe that providing all children with a first-rate education is the single most powerful tool in eradicating bias and building commu-

nity,” Dr. Davis wrote in his letter. “I also believe that to be successful in school and in life, every student must develop a deep love of reading. My own experiences growing up as a black child in the South – and today as a parent and an educator – have taught me unequivocally that reading is the key to a bright future.” The reading initiative will infuse FergusonFlorissant’s 24 schools with four important resources: classroom libraries of new books; e-readers and interactive software; intensive literacy training for teachers; and materials to engage parents and the community in reading with kids. The celebrities include Missouri natives such as Don Cheadle, Jon Hamm, Sheryl Crow, Matt Bomer, John Goodman, Akon, and Misty Copeland, as well as notable figures who spoke out on social media about events in Ferguson, including Katy Perry, Magic Johnson, Lena Dunham, Pharrell Williams, Rihanna, Kerry Washington, and Chris Rock. “We believe this campaign can be a gamechanger in our community,” Dr. Davis wrote. “For all those who watched the events in Ferguson and said, ‘I wish there were something I could do to help,’ this is your chance.”

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • April 20, 2016

bluefrog Plumbing + Drain hops into Saint Louis area bluefrog Plumbing + Drain, an emerging plumbing and drain-cleaning, repair and replacement company, is leaping into St. Charles and St. Louis County with services that began during the latter part of March. Managed by a local resident, Kevin Lansing, the new business offers both residential and commercial services including: water heaters, garbage disposals, toilets, faucets/sinks, drains, pipes/sewers, septic systems, water softeners/ filtration, grease traps and backflow prevention. “The plumbing and drain industry is very sat-

urated, yet lacks the professionalism and courtesy home and business owners desire,” Lansing said. “bluefrog Plumbing + Drain is focused on providing a first-class customer experience while maintaining a fun personality and culture. Community members will recognize our friendly and professional service experts by our branded trucks that display our playful, brightblue frog, named Freddie.” bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Saint Louis can be reached at 636-642-1000 or visit www.bluefrogplumbing.com/saint-louis.

Business

Home Builders Association donates $10,000 to St. Andrew’s Charitable Foundation

Savile Row collects clothing for the Urban League of St. Louis Submitted photo

Pictured is Mary Jo Heydt, Savile Row Vice President, with the rack of collected clothing.

Savile Row, a custom clothier and shirt maker for men and women, recently held its annual spring trunk show event. As a part of this trunk show event, Savile Row collected gently used suits, sports coats and trousers. The clothing was dry cleaned and donated to the Urban League of Metropolitan

Submitted photo

St. Louis’ community Clothes Closet, which features work-appropriate clothing for those seeking employment opportunities. Founded in 1918, the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis empowers African-Americans and others throughout the region in securing economic self-reliance, social equality and civil rights.

On behalf of the Home Builders Charitable Foundation (HBCF), 2016 HBA President Kim Hibbs of Hibbs Homes (left) and HBCF vice president Dave Griege of Paramount Mortgage Company (right) presented a $10,000 donation to Amy McFarlin, executive director of St. Andrew’s Senior Solutions. The donation will help fund St. Andrew’s Project Independence. Project Independence addresses the increasing need for quality home repair for low-income seniors, 65 years of age and older, who live in St. Louis City and County. St. Andrew’s Charitable Foundation raises funds to support the charitable mission, purpose and activities of St. Andrew’s Resources for Seniors System and its subsidiaries. A variety of repairs are performed through this program including, but not limited, to the repair of cracked walls, replacement of corroded and leaking faucets and pipes, installation or repair of locks, replacement of doors, windows, bathroom vanities, and other measures to maintain sanitation and prevent avoidable accidents.

www.NorthStLouisCounty.com

April 20, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Sports

Sports you see with Gary B... Front office of the Rascals ready to entertain The River City Rascals play professional baseball in the West Division of the Frontier League at the CarShield Field in O’Fallon. President and General Manager Dan Dial has been working diligently during the off season to provide a lot of excitement to the game besides the game itself. Several early season promotions include: **May 6 - Education Day ** May 20-Jackpot Giveaway ** May 21-Tony La Russa Appearance Night Besides the great promotions, the Manager and Director of Baseball Operations Steve Brook has coordinated an offense and a defensive group hungry for the title. His hitting coach, former player Josh Ludy is ready to have the bats crack with excitement for the season. For more information go to www.RiverCityRascals.com * Here before you know it

27 days to River City Rascals baseball in O’Fallon Lindenwood sends Law to capture a big win The Lion’s baseball team defeated a tough Fort Hays State squad with a 3-0 win recently at the Lou Brock Sports Complex in St. Charles. Connor Law had one of his best pitching performances of the season after pitching a complete-game shutout en route to his fifth win of the season. He tallied four strikeouts and allowed just three hits in the nine-inning affair. The defensive supported him with two phenomenal catches by Kyle Teter in centerfield to help keep the visiting Tigers from scoring. Lindenwood improves to 15-18 on the season, and now sit at 9-15 in the MIAA. For more details go to www.Lindenwood.edu. * Drew Morris / Graduate Assistant for Sports Information

www.treesbywoody.net

Indoor football Raiders bringing excitement to the Family Arena The River City Raiders professional indoor

www.stangelawfirm.com

football team plays in the Northern Division of the American Indoor Football league with home games at the Family Arena in St. Charles. Besides the St. Louis Blues taking on the Blackhawks from Chicago, the Raiders will entertain the Chicago Blitz this Saturday with kickoff at 7:05 p.m. Free tickets can be scooped at the website below. The team finds themselves tied for third place out of 19 teams in the league with about a month left in the regular season. The Raiders have scored the more points than any other team in their division. If you are big in hearing one of the best national anthem renditions, make sure you are at the game and hear retired Navy Petty Officer Generald Wilson with his great voice. Wilson sang the national anthem at the NCAA Championship game in Houston, MLB (World Series), NHL, and NFL games all over the nation. May 8 - 3:05 p.m. against the N. Kentucky Nightmare Last game of the regular season is at the Chicago Blitz facility on May 14 at 7 p.m. For more details go to www.IndoorRaiders. com. You can listen to the game with Todd Blackstock and David Solomon on 590 AM or www.590TheFan.com. * Season winding down I will be broadcasting the “STL Health and Wellness LIVE” show every Saturday from 9-11 am on 590 The Fan and 590TheFan.com

Gary Baute, a St. Louis native, has hosted many radio shows from Health to Sports to Baby Boomer news. He was the EMCEE of the River City Rascals and St. Louis Swarm basketball team inaugural seasons and broadcasting for the indoor football teams over a decade. Has been writing sports since 1999 for the paper.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • April 20, 2016

Learn & Play

Community Toons

John Hanna

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

Recipe:

Balanced, flavorful meals for a hectic week

Weeknights: the time of the day when the sun goes down and you are left with only a limited amount of time to finish answering emails, helping the kids with their homework and, of course, getting everyone fed. Busy families know that getting nutritious and flavorful dinners on the table can be challenging when there is little-tono time to think about what to serve, let alone prepare. So when it comes to dishing up quick, wholesome meals, maximizing efficiency with preparation is key. Rather than serve your family the same go-to dish day-in and day-out, up the ante with a frozen prepared meal. Frozen foods are not only a fantastic resource for getting a delicious meal on the table in a pinch, but can help you meet the U.S. dietary guidelines for balanced nutrition, just by simply pairing your meal with a nutritious side

dish. Balance Your Plate, an educational campaign created by Nestlé, helps consumers create a nutritiously balanced meal by pairing frozen prepared dishes with a side of fresh fruit, vegetables, whole grains or low-fat dairy. When choosing the right frozen prepared entree for you and your family, look for frozen items that offer high-quality ingredients and preparation techniques that highlight flavor and simplicity. For example, Stouffer’s Lasagna with Meat and Sauce is made with freshly prepared, hand-layered pasta, hand-seasoned sauce with vine-ripened tomatoes and topped with fresh mozzarella and aged parmesan. You can pair this with a refreshing Apple and Walnut Arugula Salad to achieve a nutritiously balanced, yet flavorful weeknight meal.

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.

Fresh Apple and Walnut Arugula Salad Servings: 1 | Prep time: 10 minutes

See solution on page 13

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Ingredients: 6 cups torn mixed salad greens 2 medium apples, chopped 1/2 red onion sliced 1/2 cup dried cranberries 3 tablespoons chopped walnuts, toasted 1 garlic clove, minced salt and pepper 4 1/2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon honey 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon juice 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons crumbled goat cheese (optional)

Directions: In large bowl, combine greens, apples, onion, cranberries and walnuts. In separate small bowl, whisk together garlic, pinch of salt and pepper, balsamic vinegar, honey and lemon juice. Then slowly add olive oil, continuing to whisk. Pour dressing over greens and toss. Top with goat cheese, if desired. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

www.manorcare.com/Florissant

What’s Happening

April 20, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Send your event to editor@mycnews.com and we'll print it! Events April 20: Karaoke

Karaoke at the 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.

April 21: Healthcare conference

The state’s leading dental benefits provider and champion of improving both oral health and overall health will host futureFOCUS2016 from 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Ritz Carlton in Clayton. This conference is free to attend and will include a complimentary breakfast and a book written by the keynote speaker. Local business leaders and healthcare professionals can secure a reservation at www.futurefocusconference.com. futureFOCUS2016 will feature speakers Joe Flower and Kathryn Gilliam, RDH, BA. This event is packed with helpful information for HR executives and benefits managers, employee benefits professionals, strategic planners, CEOs, benefits consultants, agents, brokers, dentists and other healthcare professionals.

April 21-23: Spring book sale

The Spring Book Sale for Friends of Ferguson Library (FLIERS) will be on: April 21 from 1 -7:30 p.m., April 22 from 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. and April 23 from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. at the library auditorium at 35 No. Florissant Road. In addition to large stock of books, we have larger numbers of WWI and WWII, Civil War and Vietnam military collection and large amounts of audio books. No scanners. For more information call 314-521-4663.

April 22: Spaghetti or chicken alfredo dinner

Spaghetti or chicken alfredo dinner at the 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 314-8316121.

April 23: Chili cook-off

St. Mark’s United Methodist Church at 315 Graham Road in Florissant is hosting their annual chili cook-off. Free Admission, no entry fee, doors open at 4 p.m., judging begins at 5 p.m. First place for chili is $150, first place for dessert is $100 and children’s dessert competition first place is $50. There will be refreshments and lots of fun. To register call Jill at 314-695-4490 or email her at jill.a.simmons@gmail.com.

April 23: Earth Day celebration

The Ferguson-Florissant School District’s 97-acre nature preserve, Little Creek Nature Area, will host an Earth Day celebration from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Little Creek Nature Area is located at 2295 Dunn Road in Florissant. Attendees will be able to witness a rehabilitated bird release and raptor show, hike the nature preserve’s ADA-accessible trails, take an Audubon Society bird-watching walk, visit with and feed farm animals, create earth-friendly crafts and participate in educational activities at Little Creek’s pond. Guests can also create earth-friendly crafts. The event will also include a 10 a.m. presentation of the Green Ribbon School Awards to Ferguson-Florissant schools that promote sustainable practices in energy usage, gardening, recycling and waste reduction, water run-off and erosion. Earth Day at Little Creek is free and open to the public.

April 23: Pancake breakfast

The St Louis County Citizen Police Academy Alumni Association North County (CPAAA) invites you to our CPAAA Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser. The event is being held at O’Charley’s Restaurant at 13971 New Halls Ferry Road in Florissant. Breakfast served from 8 to 10 a.m. costs $8.50 for adults and $6 for children eight years old and under. Breakfast includes pancakes, sausage, orange juice, milk, coffee, tea and soda. Two one-week vacation packages to be raffled, tickets will be drawn the morning of the breakfast. One week stay in Las Vegas or one week stay in Orlando, Florida. Winners need not be present to win; cost is $20 per ticket. Proceeds benefit the on-going support of the St Louis County Police Department’s North Precinct and their Community Outreach Programs by the CPAAA.

April 23: Fine arts show

The Hazelwood School District (HSD) will host its second annual Fine Arts Show from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Hazelwood Central High School at 15875 New Halls Ferry Road in Florissant. The event is free and open to the community. The Fine Arts Show is a collective show of art work created by HSD art students in Pre-K through 12th grade.

April 23: “Focus on Love, Neighbors and Forgiveness” First Baptist Church of Ferguson, at 333 N. Florissant Road, will host a

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

special event featuring shoebox gift recipient, Alex Nsengimana from 2 – 4 p.m. Growing up in the throes of an unstable Rwandan government, Alex experienced first-hand the travesties of his nation’s genocide. In 1994 he witnessed the murder of his grandmother and uncle. Fleeing for his life, he escaped and ended up in an orphanage. A year after arriving at the orphanage Alex received a shoebox from Operation Christmas Child and remembers being so excited to have a gift to call his own. Alex now serves with Operation Christmas Child as a national spokesperson, sharing the story of hope and love he received through a shoebox gift.

April 23: Trivia night

The annual Trivia Night Fundraiser for TEAM will be held in the parish hall of Sacred Heart Catholic Church located at 751 N. Jefferson St. The trivia night is being sponsored by the Florissant License Office – Florissant Rotary Club. Entry fee is $200 per table with a maximum of eight people per team. Entry fee includes drinks, popcorn and attendance prizes. Doors open at 6:15 p.m., trivia starts promptly at 7 p.m. Checks should be made payable to TEAM and mailed to Pat Piotrowicz, TEAM Trivia Night, 9 Beaujolais, Florissant, MO 63031. To register, volunteer, sponsor, or make a donation, please contact Pat Piotrowicz at p.piotrowicz1@yahoo.com. All proceeds benefit TEAM – The Emergency Assistance Ministry, a 501c3 organization. The mission of TEAM is to serve the poor and the hungry in the Florissant and Hazelwood areas. To learn more about how to donate or receive assistance, please visit our website teamfoodpantry.com.

April 23: Free document shredding

The Fifth Annual Florissant Resident “Free Document Shredding Day” will be held at St. Ferdinand Park- rear parking lot from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.. Bring your sensitive tax, bank or financial records from home to be shredded right in front of you. Cintas Document Management Company will professionally shred your information. All information will be destroyed in a manner to which it cannot be recognized or recreated. All paper will then be recycled. What to bring to be shredded: bank statements, tax records, credit card statements, invoices, anything with your name and address on it and no need to remove paper clips, binder clips or

staples. You may bring up to five bags or boxes. Types of boxes include copy paper boxes, banker boxes and shoe boxes. Types of bags include shopping bags, grocery bags and trash bags. No three ring binders, hanging file folders, CD’s, DVD’s or hard bound books. Open to the public.

April 26: Card and game party

Annual card and game party will be held at Holy Trinity Catholic Church at 3400 St Gregory Lane in St Ann. Doors open at 11 a.m., games start at noon. The cost is $7 which includes cake and coffee or tea. Other food items will be available for purchase. Many great attendance prizes will be awarded. Also Pot of Gold and raffle prizes, including a quilt raffle. For reservations call Mary Cornwall at 314428-3236 to reserve your table.

April 27: Karaoke

Karaoke at the 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.

April 29: All-you-can-eat chicken dinner

All-you-can-eat chicken dinner (dinein only) at the 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.

April 30: Trivia night

St. Barnabas’ Episcopal Church Trivia Night takes place at 2900 St. Catherine Street in Florissant. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., trivia begins at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $160 per table, maximum eight people per table with a 16 table limit. To reserve a table call Marlene at 314837-7113.

April 30: Florissant Garage Sale

Florissant residents can haul down the clutter from their attics and treasures from their garages and organize accumulations from their barns for the 6th Annual Florissant Garage Sale. The garage sale will be held at the James J Eagan Ice Rink area from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Each applicant will only receive one space. Only Florissant residents receive a space to sell. The selling of craft items will not be approved. Fill out an application and return it by April 22.. Applications will be available at the JJE and JFK Center and

at www.florissantmo.com. Space is limited. The fee is $20 per table. The Florissant Garage sale is free to attend. For additional information call 314921-4250 or 314-921-4466.

April 30: Florissant Garage Sale

Florissant residents can haul down the clutter from their attics and treasures from their garages and organize accumulations from their barns for the Sixth Annual Florissant Garage Sale. The Garage Sale will be held at the James J Eagan Ice Rink area from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Each applicant will only receive one space. Only Florissant residents receive a space to sell. The selling of craft items will not be approved. Fill out an application and return it by April 22. Applications are available at the JJE and JFK Center and on our website www.florissantmo.com. Space is limited. The fee is $20 Per table. The Florissant Garage sale is free to attend! For additional information call 314921-4250 or 314-921-4466.

April 30: Purse auction and pamper party

Beauty Impact Accessories and Mizz Piggys’ presents “All Moms Matter” Purse Auction & Pamper Party at 1F North Oaks Plaza in St. Louis County. This event will have a live auction of items from various local small businesses. For entertainment several serviced-based businesses have volunteered their services for women who have lost a child. The proceeds from this event are being donated to St. Louis Children’s Hospital Parent Bereavement Program. The organizers of the event, Brittany Raji and Catherine Harvey, hope to give the grieving women time to relax, feel appreciated and supported. This event is free and open to the public. Women who have lost a child can come and receive massages, manicures and mini- makeovers.

May 2: Hospice volunteer training

Mercy Hospice will be conducting new volunteer training in St. Louis on four consecutive Mondays; April 11, 18, 25, and May 2 from 12:30 – 4 p.m. Trained volunteers provide a variety of different services including companionship and caregiver relief for patients and families, administrative assistance and grief support. To register or inquire, please contact Paula Minogue at 314-729-4415 or Paula. Minogue@mercy.net.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • April 20, 2016 May 5: Pitch, hit and run

Kids ages seven-14 (as of July 17, 2016) are invited to participate in the Pitch, Hit & Run competition at 6 p.m. at Koch Park field number four. Participants compete in three stations: pitching, hitting, and running with a chance to advance to sectional competitions, team championships at a Cardinal’s game, and the national finals at the 2016 MLB All Star game. Metal spikes are not allowed. For further information, please call 314-921-4466.

May 14: Washers tournament

Florissant Eagles at 15245 New Halls Ferry Rd. will be holding the 5th Annual Washers tournament. There will be five lanes to choose from with a payout of first place 50 percent, second place 30 percent and third place 20 percent payout. Event starts at 1 p.m. Cost is $10 per two-person team. Come enjoy our beer garden and have some fun. Get there early to register your team.

May 14: “Shoot for a Cure” event

Make plans now to join the Friends of the Saint Louis University Liver Center for the Eighth Annual “Shoot for a Cure” fundraising event at the beautiful Strathalbyn Farms Club. Located on 140 pristine acres in the Weldon Spring area of St. Charles County, Strathalbyn Farms Club offers a unique private club environment for this benefit shooting event. The event is geared towards intermediate and experienced shooters. Event registration begins at 8 a.m. with a required safety meeting at 9:15 a.m. and shotgun start at 9:30 a.m. Breakfast will be served at 8:15 a.m. Sponsorships are available at various investment levels – for more information, contact the Friends of the Saint Louis University Liver Center at 314-576-3078. Teams may register for the event at a cost of $1,250 for a four member team, 100-shot course with 14-stations. Included in the team price is breakfast, clays and shells and beer and pretzels after the shoot. Proceeds will benefit the Friends of the Saint Louis University Liver Center. For more information about the “Shoot for a Cure” event and associated sponsorship opportunities, or to register a team, please contact the Friends organization at 314-576-3078 or via email at lduff@friendsoftheslulc.org.

May 16: Golf fundraiser

The Christian Hospital Foundation is hosting their sixth-annual Golf Outing at Norwood Hills Country Club. The day includes lunch, shotgun start, oncourse refreshments and games, and an awards reception with cocktails and dinner immediately after play. Proceeds from the outing will help the foundation continue in its mission to provide compassionate care and clinical excellence to more than 160,000 patients who visit Christian Hospital each year. The foundation also provides more than 10,000 area residents with free education and screenings each year. Sponsorships are still available and cost for a foursome is $800; individual play is $200; or cocktail/dinner only is $70. For more information, please visit the website at www.christianhospital.org/ golf or call the foundation office at 314653-5162.

May 20: Charity golf tournament

Soroptimist International of Greater St. Louis is pleased to announce its 18th annual All Women’s Charity Golf Tournament at the Golf Club of Florissant. Individual entry fee is $65 and includes nine holes with cart, dinner, attendance prizes and awards for longest drive and closest to the pin. Registration begins at 1 p.m., shotgun start scramble at 2 p.m. with dinner and awards at 5 p.m. The Golf Club of Florissant is located at 50 Country Club Lane in Florissant. This year’s theme is Tropical. Proceeds from the golf tournament benefit women and children’s charities. For more information please contact Margie Heppermann at 314-839-0565, Grace Zykan at 314-837-4881 or visit their

website at http://www.soroptimiststlouis.com/.

June 11-12: Beaumont High School Reunion

Beaumont High Schools graduating class of January and June 1946 will be holding their 70th reunion this June. This will be the final reunion for the Beaumont graduating classes of 1946. The reunion will consist of dinner at Clayton Plaza on June 11, followed by a lunch at the DoubleTree Hotel in Chesterfield on June 12. For more information contact Martha Strehle at 636-386-5587 or Marsha Hoeman 314839-5156.

June 20: Charity golf event

The annual Jim Butler Charity Golf classic, benefitting the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis, will be at the Country Club of St. Albans at 3165 St. Albans Road in St. Albans. The event will be a fun-filled tournament experience that includes afternoon tee times, golf, lunch, live and silent auction, dinner and awards program. Both courses will be available for the tournament. For more information, or to register, visit www.bgcstl.org.

June 20: Coed softball leagues registration

The city of Overland will offer adult coed recreational slow-pitch softball leagues Monday through Thursday at a cost of $450 per team for six week double headers and $300 per team for eight week single-header games. All leagues will be recreational and do not include playoffs. League games are set to start on August 1 - 8, 2016. Registration will be accepted starting June 20 through July 22 at the Overland Community Center at 9225 Lackland Road, during normal business hours. To reserve you spot in our upcoming leagues a 50 percent deposit or full payment is required along with a completed registration form. All remaining league fees must be paid before your second game. To obtain more information, please call 314-428-0490 or check us out online at: http://www.overlandmo.org/231/ Adult-Softball-Leagues.

July 14: Charity golf tournament

United 4 Children announces their Annual charity golf tournament will be held at the Norman K. Probstein golf course in Forest Park at 6141 Lagoon Drive. This important event raises over $50,000 to help children who are atrisk develop and thrive regardless of their fragile environments. Golfers will join us beginning at 12:30 p.m. with a shotgun start, followed by 18 holes of golf and an awards banquet at the club house. Tickets are $125 per player. Check out United4Children.org to register.

Recurring Events Mondays: A cappella singers

Men of Harmony a cappella singers meet at Salem Evangelical Free Church at New Halls Ferry at Pohlman Road at 7 p.m. Not church affiliated. Group is always looking for new members. Call Al at 314-993-6134 for more information.

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: 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 Bethel Providence Christian Church located at 14700 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.

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: meeting

Jennings

Do-Dads

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

Church Tuesdays & Thursdays: Chapel of

What’s Happening

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 mous Group 109

Anony-

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

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. SUDOKU answers from page 11

April 20, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

aUCTION

Consignment

hELP wANTED

SERVICES help wanted

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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Statewide Classifieds

www.lifecarecenters.com

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • April 20, 2016

CLASSIFIEDS

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AreAs of CirCulAtion Published Weekly since 1921 st. charles county

st. louis county

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

April 20, 2016 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Movie

By Steve Bryan

Talking with ‘Ethnic Mom’ Lainie Kazan As a fan of Lainie Kazan, it’s difficult to pin down a favorite performance. Her turn as Rose, an older law student, on Showtime’s “The Paper Chase,” was exceptionally memorable. In the episode entitled “The Big D,” for instance, Rose represented herself during her own divorce proceedings. “That was one of my favorite, favorite jobs. Oh my God, what a wonderful job that was,” Kazan said when reached by phone for an interview. “I was out with my girlfriend, who was producing and directing it. We were having lunch and I said to her ‘You know, I would like to just get a part that’s not an ethnic mother. I’ve been everybody’s mother, and I just want a part where I have problems and I’m a person.’ And she wrote that part for me. She wrote that part for me and I got nominated for an Ace Award.” Speaking of ethnic mothers, the prolific actress/singer recently returned as Maria in “My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2.” The original film, produced by Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson, was a cultural and box office phenomenon. During the film’s theatrical run in 2002, word-of-mouth turned this engaging romantic comedy into a huge success. “I’m a Greek mother, and I love it! And I am so happy and I am so grateful and I am so pleased with the fact that we did this movie again,” she explained. “Because it is a feel good, warm, delicious film and I think people love the characters.” Windex, which became a character in the first film, also plays a part in the sequel. Michael Constantine’s Gus returns with more uses for the popular cleaning product. “Did you know that Windex put money up for the movie? I was in shock. They had Windex on every table at the opening, at the premiere. They had Windex with bows on them for the people who came. It was hysterical,” she said, lauging.

The original “Greek Wedding” was so popular, in fact, that it became a series on CBS with most of the original characters. Unfortunately, it barely made it through the first season. “It didn’t work; it was a very sad thing. First of all, our leading man (John Corbett) wasn’t there. He wasn’t in the series. I think the guy who directed it and helped write it, he had no ethnic sensibility. He just didn’t understand anything Greek and he whitewashed it. I think that was the problem with it, which was sad,” she explained. Kazan has high praise for Nia Vardalos, who wrote and starred in the films. “She’s wonderful, a wonderful woman. I love her. She took care of us,” Kazan added. “She wanted us to have wonderful roles. She’s just a caring, fabulous person. I really appreciate her.” The idea of a sequel, Kazan said, came up every time they had dinner: “She never bit; she never really wanted to do it. She felt she didn’t know what to write about. She didn’t know what to say. Then, all of a sudden, we were going to have dinner one night. She came to me and said ‘Let’s get everybody together; I want to talk to you all.” “My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2,” rated PG-13 for some suggestive material, is currently playing in theaters. Lainie Kazan photo courtesy of Bigstock “My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2” photo courtesy of HBO Films 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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