April 5, 2017
A silent cheer
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Celebrating Missouri trees this Arbor Day. P.3 Utility tax refund applications for eligible Wentzville residents avialable April 3. P.3
Healthy Living Decoding your child’s fever. P.4 Struggling with social skills in children with ADHD. P.4
School
Mariah Green (center) stands with her mother Sheri Green and father Ben Green at the Cheer Legendz gym in Chesterfield.
Photo by Ray Rockwell
Ft. Zumwalt South cheerleader overcomes hearing impairment to compete at highest level By Brett Auten When on the stage and under the hot lights, in Mariah Green’s head there is constant counting. One-two-three-four-five-six-seven-eight. Over and over again. That cadence is the norm for most cheerleaders, but for Green, it is especially important. Green suffers from severe hearing loss since birth. As her mother, Sheri Green, tells it she was exposed to a virus when pregnant that caused Mariah’s deafness. “She wouldn’t respond to the buzzer, almost like an alarm clock, during the ultrasound so we first expected, then knew right away about her hearing loss. It was progressive and got worse pretty quickly. She’s had minimal hearing from birth.” Born in Las Vegas, as Mariah grew Sheri became aware of cochlear implants and through diligent research found that St. Louis had one of the top physicians in the country to perform the implant. At the age of three, Mariah got her first implant. By the time she turned eight, Mariah was begging for the second implant which she soon received. “Once she got the second implant she was
able to localize sounds better,” Sheri said. “She could determine where certain sounds were coming from. And in a noisy setting, it became easier for her to hear.” Cochlear implants are designed to treat severe to profound hearing loss for people who are not receiving enough benefit when using hearing aids. Cochlear implants are different from hearing aids. Where a hearing aid only amplifies sound, a cochlear implant is designed to make sounds more crisp and clear, especially in noisy environments. The Cochlear Nucleus System, the device Mariah has, consists of two components: the external sound processor and the internal implant that is surgically placed underneath the skin, behind the ear. The implant is attached to an electrode that is inserted into the cochlea to help her hear. The Nucleus Sound Processor has two synchronized microphones to help continuously capture sound. When sound is captured by the sound processor, which sits behind the ear, the sound is converted to digital information and is transmitted to the internal implant, which sends sound signals to the brain. “If I compare her progression with that of a normal hearing cheerleader, it didn’t hamper it at all,” Sheri said. “She progressed like a normal child without it.”
Mariah, 18, is a junior at Ft. Zumwalt South. She had tried soccer, swimming, and dance but not being shy about being the center of attention or about being under the lights of a stage, Green began competitive cheer at the age of eight. Currently, she does competitive cheerleading for Cheer Legendz in Chesterfield and for her high school during football and soccer season. Mariah’s gym understood that as long as her coach was facing her, Mariah could read lips and understand. “When we are working on a new routine we definitely count out loud when we’re learning it,” Cheer Legendz coach Katie Hazel said. “As she catches on she can do well on her own. She is really pro-active and will come up right away and wants to know what is going on.” Mariah practices two-times-a-week and squeezes in private sessions to sharpen her tumbling skills, usually with coach Fernando Brown. “The one thing I learned that without her aides, she can’t hear really at all,” Brown said. “During her training, I make sure my gestures are all big and animated. Her mental strength to keep going and push through is amazing.” See CHEER page 2
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CHEER Continued from cover Cheer Legendz formed its first competitive cheerleading teams in April 2006 and soon became widely known at competitions, traveling to multiple states each season and collecting trophies in mass along the way. Anthony Best is the Cheer Legendz co-owner, head coach, and chief cheerleading choreographer. “It’s very impressive what Mariah does to keep up with everyone,” Best said. “The team doesn’t really ac-
knowledge Mariah’s hearing deficit until they know they need to help out with the counting. They don’t give her special treatment.” The only time Mariah runs into concern is when the beat of the music is quicker than the norm. “It can be really hard in some parts especially if the music is really fast,” she said. “I’m trying to get on the right count and there are other kids moving around
you, it can be hectic.” Committed and driven, Mariah refuses to let a major setback keep her from doing what she loves at an extremely high level. “Nothing slows me down,” she said. “If you enjoy doing something – or actually love it – then don’t give up on that. Keep it going.”
St. Charles County tops Missouri’s ‘Healthiest Counties’ list For the eighth consecutive year, St. Charles County ranks at the top of Missouri’s “Healthiest Counties” list. The annual report, released today by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the University of Wisconsin’s Population Health Institute, places St. Charles County first in Missouri for the “Health Factors” category and second in the state for “Health Outcomes.” “As individuals and as a collective unit, our community has traditionally placed an emphasis on being healthy,” Department of Public Health Director Hope Woodson says. “Earning these high rankings for an eighth consecutive year recognizes both our department’s efforts to enhance this community and the commitment made by residents, businesses and leaders to make health a priority. Building upon an active citizenry, a strong economy and an extensive support network, we can proactively overcome potential health risks and educate residents on ways to further their quality of life.” Healthy behaviors, access to medical care and environmental surroundings influence a population’s health. St. Charles County topped the state for the fifth consecutive year in the “Social and Economic Factors” category and received high marks for “Health Behaviors” and “Clinical Care” to earn its first place ranking in Health Fac-
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tors. A low premature death rate that is among the top 10 percent in the nation and a low percentage of those reporting to be in poor or fair health contributed to the second place ranking in Health Outcomes. “Even with our continued high ranking, there is more that can be achieved to improve the health of our citizens,” Woodson notes. “Staff from the Department of Public Health actively networks with medical professionals, community leaders and our residents to assess needs, monitor threats and reduce incidences of illness. In addition, the services we offer have a direct impact on the well-being of our community.” Services provided by the Department of Public Health include: free and low-cost preventative immunizations for children and adults; the prevention, detection and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases; and nutritional counseling and assistance for growing families through the WIC program. Additionally, department staff engages in educational partnerships and outreach to counter the prescription drug and opioid drug abuse problem, address hygiene and safety issues for young children, parents and caregivers; prepare for public health emergencies and natural disasters; and much more.
This recognition furthers the notion that St. Charles County is an excellent place to raise a family or to start, grow or relocate a business. The county continues to have one of the state’s fastest growing populations, with an estimated 390,000 residents — 77 percent of whom the Health Rankings report notes as having some college education and 90 percent are high school graduates. An affordable cost-of-living and competitive operating expenses make St. Charles County home to a host of top global companies like Boeing, Citi, Enterprise Holdings, General Motors, MasterCard and Nike; which, in turn, contributes to the county having the lowest unemployment rate in the Metropolitan Area and accounts for nearly seven percent of Missouri’s total economy. The annual County Health Rankings are based upon public data collected from vital statistics and government health surveys. Health Outcomes are a representation of the current health of a community, with rankings determined by how long people live (mortality) and how healthy they feel (morbidity). Health Factors allude to the population’s health in the future and the items that influence overall well-being. The complete nationwide and Missouri-specific rankings may be viewed at www. countyhealthrankings.org.
Residents of the region invited to celebrate new Gateway Arch park landscapes CityArchRiver project partners will commemorate the renovation and reimagining of the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial with a community celebration called Spring into your Park on Saturday, April 8. Throughout 2016, almost all of the park areas have opened to the public in stages. With most of the park now open, everyone is invited to join Spring into your Park festivities celebrating renovated park areas with live music, Laclede’s Landing food and drink vendors, kids activities, lawn games and more. The celebration starts at 11 a.m. and goes until 4 p.m. Dignitaries and CityArchRiver project leaders will speak at 12:30 p.m. to officially open the newly renovated grounds at the Gateway Arch. The event leads up to the GO! St. Louis Marathon the following day on April 9,
which will start and finish on the riverfront for the first time in its history. Leonor K. Sullivan Blvd. on the riverfront has been raised and renovated through the CityArchRiver project. More than 20,000 people are expected to watch or participate in the marathon and other races that day. To showcase the transformation, visitors will be able to participate in the Discovery Map Challenge - a scavenger hunt tour of the park highlighting new park features and additions. Participants will receive special memorabilia as prizes. Discovery Map Challenge destinations include: the North Gateway elevated walkway, Lewis and Clark Explorers’ Garden, Riverwalk Pathways on the east slopes of the park, and more. National Park Service Rangers will
be performing American musical styles through history during the Mississippi River Musical Expedition at 1 - 3 p.m. at Spring into your Park. The renovation design was developed by Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates with private funding through the CityArchRiver Foundation. Construction on the renovated park landscape work is funded by the National Park Service, Great Rivers Greenway and the CityArchRiver Foundation. Great Rivers Greenway is overseeing funding provided by Proposition P, a sales tax approved by voters in April 2013 that provides funding for improvements to the Arch grounds and surrounding areas. Event information and updates are available at www.CityArchRiver.org/Spring/
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MDC encourages celebrating Missouri trees during Arbor Days in April The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) encourages Missourians to celebrate the value of Missouri trees and forests during Arbor Days in April by planting native trees and practicing proper tree care. Missouri Arbor Day is Friday, April 7. Missouri has been observing the state’s official Arbor Day on the first Friday in April since 1886 when the general assembly declared that day be set aside for the appreciation and planting of trees. National Arbor Day is recognized on the last Friday of April, which is April 28 for 2017. Get information from MDC on backyard tree care – including types of trees for urban and other landscapes, selecting the right tree for the right place, planting tips, watering and pruning info, and more -- from the department’s website at mdc.mo.gov/treehealth. MDC’s George O. White State Forest Nursery near
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Photo courtesy Missouri Department of Conservation MDC encourages people to celebrate the value of Missouri trees and forests during Arbor Days in April by planting native trees and practicing proper tree care.
Licking offers Missouri residents a variety of lowcost native tree and shrub seedlings for reforestation, windbreaks, erosion control, and wildlife food and cover. Orders are accepted from Nov. 1 to April 15 every year. For more information, visit the
MDC website at mdc.mo.gov/ seedlings Communities around the state also hold local Arbor Day activities. For more information on Arbor Day and Missouri’s Tree City USA communities, visit the Arbor Day Foundation at arborday.org
Eligible Wentzville residents can apply for a city utility-tax refund beginning April 3 From April 3 through May 31, eligible residents can apply for a city-utility tax refund. To be eligible for a refund, you must rent or own your primary residence in the city of Wentzville, be at least 65 years old or considered totally disabled by Social Security, and have a maximum 2016 gross income of $39,400 for single-person households and $45,000 for married-couple households. The refund program is based on your total gross income for filing year 2016, Social Security income is included. Refunds are only available for the months when you lived in Wentzville and were at least 65 years old or considered totally disabled. The refund amount is a portion of the “City Tax” or “Franchise Tax” listed on the your electric, gas and phone bills for 2016. If you haven’t saved your gas or electric stubs, you can contact your local utilities to request a report (please note: CenturyLink does not provide this report).
• Ameren UE: Call 314-342-1111, and request the “Municipal Tax Report” for 2016. • Laclede Gas: Call 314-621-6960, and request the “Municipal Tax Report” for 2016. • Cuivre River: Call 800-392-3709, and request the “Wentzville City Tax Report” for 2016. • Phone Bills: Provide landline or cell phone bills (pre-paid phones are not eligible). Beginning April 3, residents can apply for the refund in person at City Hall (310 W. Pearce Blvd.) or at Public Works (200 E. Fourth St.). When applying for the refund, residents will need: proof of residency, income, age and/or disability, and copies of their gas, electric and primary phone bills (or the reports listed above). Residents must also present a driver’s license, Social Security card or birth certificate. Questions? Please call the Finance Department at 636-6392155.
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April 5, 2017 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
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Fevers in children
pinterest.com/mycnews By Dr. Valerie Gribben
Parents often have questions when their child gets a fever. How high of temperature is a fever? What medicine should I give him or her? When should I seek further care? By knowing the best way to take your child’s temperature and their best course of treatment, you can help you child feel better sooner. How will I know my child has a fever? A fever is a sign that your child’s immune system is working and fighting off an infection. Typically, you only need to check a child’s temperature if they look sick or feel warm. Most parents will first check for a fever in a child by feeling their forehead. However, it’s recommended all parents have a thermometer available to accurately read body temperature. Sometimes a child may feel warm, but their temperature is okay. Usually, pediatricians consider a true fever to be anything over 100.4 degrees fahrenheit.
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pediatrician’s office. Hydration is also important in managing fever, so keep children hydrated with popsicles, Pedialyte or juice. Also look for other signs of sickness such as tugging on their ears to indicate an ear infection or vomiting to indicate a flu virus.
What is the best way to take the temperature of a child or infant? In babies, the most reliable way to take a temperature is rectally. In older children, forehead and oral thermometers are fairly accurate. The St. Louis Children’s Hospital Kid Care app has more information on the most reliable way to take a temperature. The app is free and available on iPhones and Androids.
When should I call the doctor or take my child to the emergency room? While some fevers in older children can be managed at home, babies, especially those less than three months old, may have higher risks. If your baby has a temperature higher than 100.4 or less than 97 degrees, you should call your pediatrician immediately. They may schedule an appointment or recommend going to the emergency room, where more immediate care can be provided to make your child feel better more quickly.
How should I care for my child at home? Sometimes a dose of Tylenol or Motrin can make all the difference in how a child feels. Use the child’s weight to determine the right dosage of a fever reducer. Weight-based dosage can be found on the Kid Care app or by contacting your
Valerie Gribben, MD, is a Washington University and St. Louis Children’s Hospital pediatrician who sees patients in the Progress West Hospital emergency room and nursery. She also consults on other inpatient cases. To learn more about pediatrics care, visit www.bjcstcharlescounty.org.
ADHD and the struggle with social skills
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When it comes to a child with ADHD, certain social skills do not necessarily come naturally to them. Many children with ADHD lag behind their peers and also tend to be a little more immature than others their same age. There are strategies to help your child make friends and be socially interactive. And this includes places such as school, neighborhood friends and at other social activities that your child may belong to. You can demonstrate and rehearse these social interactions with your child. For example, instead of a child saying “This is boring,” teach them to say, “Can we play something else for a little while?” Progress may come slow, so make sure you
praise your child’s efforts along the way. You can also talk to your child about what makes a good friend and make sure you are close by to observe the interaction of a play date. Playing with a younger child can also give them the opportunity to “practice friendship skills” without being made fun of. And as a bonus, the younger friend will most likely look up to the older friend. This will instill self-esteem and confidence in them and give them a better chance at making friends with their peers. Keep in close contact with your child’s school teacher(s) and ask if they can be paired up with someone who they think would be patient with them to tackle some classwork and
school projects together. Working with other classmates will strongly encourage your child to practice his social skills. As your child learns new social skills, be patient and continue to gently suggest new advice. Every child may not be a social butterfly and that’s OK. Studies show that having one close friend is enough to help develop self -confidence. If you are interested in learning more about the brain of an ADHD child and how neurofeedback can actually retrain the brain in a natural way without the use of medications, come to one of our free parent information nights on either April 13 or April 27. Seating does fill up fast so call 1-855-STL-ADHD or visit www.stladhd.com.
www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • April 5, 2017
Volunteers needed for Greater St. Louis Book Fair With the 2017 Greater St. Louis Book set for May 4-7 at Greensfelder Recreation Complex in Queeny Park, volunteers are needed to serve in a variety of roles throughout the four-day event. “Whether you can give a few hours or a few days, we need your assistance,” said Marilyn Brown, Director of the Greater St. Louis Book Fair. “We are once again anticipating large crowds so this is an outstanding opportunity to share your love of books and reading by assisting our staff. Your volunteer efforts can make this fair our best ever.” Greater St. Louis Book Fair volunteer opportunities include cashier assistants, baggers, greeters, information desk, re-stockers; cart wranglers and setup/cleanup.
Volunteer shifts available: • May 4 – 3:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.; 6:30 p.m. to 9:45 p.m. • May 5 – 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.; 12:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.; 3:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.; 6:30 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. • May 6 – 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; noon to 4 p.m.; 3:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.; 6:30 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. • May 7 – 10:30 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.; 2:15 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. One of the oldest and most popular charity book sales in the Midwest, all proceeds from the Greater St. Louis Book Fair will go to area literacy and education programs. For more information about volunteering, please email Barbara at barbarabookfair@hotmail.com.
Study shows 7.1 percent of St. Louisans carpool, not far from 9.0 percent national average Results from the 2017 edition of “Where We Stand,” produced by the East-West Gateway Council of Governments, show that St. Louis is slightly behind the national average of commuters who carpool to and from work. The information, which comes from the U.S. Census Bureau, states that nine percent of U.S. workers carpool, compared to 7.1 percent of workers in the St. Louis Metropolitan Statistical Area. New economic, social and demographic changes are occurring that can and should improve St. Louis ridesharing, according to RideFinders, the region’s ridematching organization that operates in nine counties in Missouri and Illinois. The region is experiencing a shift in attitudes toward sustainable commuting, says RideFinders Spokesperson SJ Morrison. “Carpooling is serving a growing population of millennials who embrace a shared economy and commuters who are seeking ways to reduce congestion and pollution levels,” Morrison explains. “In past years, we saw spikes in ridesharing when gas prices were high or when there was increased highway construction. Now we are seeing people who want a more connected culture and also those who want a healthier place to work and live.” Carpooling and vanpooling in St. Louis can
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VETERINARY
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Miss. River Trading Post 1460 Farmham Portage Des Sioux Wed. April 12 St. Charles Co. Op. 5055 Hwy 94 Orchard Farm Thu. April 13 Bear’s Bar Hwy P (Next to Mannino’s) Flint Hill Fri. April 14 Charlies Farm & Home W. Pearce & May Rd Wentzville Sat. April 15
Pete Pratte DVM - Lake St. Louis Animal Care - 636.625.4647 www.vetmobileclinic.com
fill important roles in connecting people in areas where mass transit is not available, Morrison points out. “While our region does not have the mass transportation infrastructure of metropolitan areas like Chicago or New York, St. Louis is less than a percentage point behind Midwest cities like Columbus, Cincinnati, Milwaukee and Indianapolis in carpooling. We have the resources to make us a national leader in sustainable commuting. By sharing a ride with just one friend for one year, you can save thousands of dollars, eliminate 5,200 driving miles and reduce toxic emissions by more than 4,700 lbs.” Limited employer parking is also creating increased interest in commuter carpooling and vanpooling throughout the region, according to Morrison. More than 900 employers, colleges and other organizations participate in RideFinders at no cost as “Employer Transportation Coordinators” help thousands of commuters rideshare. Morrison says joining RideFinders is free and easy, and urges commuters to share a ride even once a week to make St. Louis healthier and more sustainable. “The best part of the RideFinders program is that we do the work and both the employee and the employer get the benefit.”
Local Author Spotlight: Anthony Fonte Anthony (Tony) Fonte is a new beginnings coach, author, speaker, vulnerability and shame expert, and most importantly a dad. Inspired by the tragic loss of his wife in 2011 and the many life experiences he walked through, Tony began a journey of intense personal growth and vulnerability where he learned tools to help him create a new beginning for he and his daughter. He was, and still is, intentional about overcoming tragedy and his past so he can be the man, and dad, he wants to be. Now he teaches these same tools to help others achieve their new beginning and transform their lives and relationships. Tony recently published a book titled “New Beginnings: Step Into the Life You Were Created to Live.” This book shares Tony’s journey from tragedy to transformation. While reading “New Beginnings,” you will encounter four themes. 1. Embracing vulnerability to rediscover you. 2. Building a resilient mind to weather any storm. 3. Creating happiness that lasts, 4. Walking through grief. You can pick up a copy of “New Beginnings” at www.amazon.com. Tony’s passion is to help men find the courage to embrace vulnerability and build a resilience to shame. By embracing the courage to show up and be seen, they rediscover who they really are and create a new beginning in life. Tony helps men realize they are enough, which allows them to become the dad, husband, and leader they were destined to be.
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April 5, 2017 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
Agencies partner to provide infants with strong, loving start Nine nonprofit agencies throughout St. Charles County will work together in April to help its tiniest residents through the 11th annual Shower of Love. The Shower of Love provides hundreds of struggling families with infants and toddlers with the most basic needs many take for granted, like formula, diapers and wipes. Since its inception in 2006, this event has raised over $768,000 in donated diapers, wipes, formula, clothing and other baby care items, with donations assisting more than 15,000 local families in the last decade. With the help of over 300 volunteers who solicit items from local grocery stores, the items are distributed through agency partners to thousands of families each year to cover their baby care needs. “Access to basic baby-care necessities, like diapers and formula, helps to keep infants and babies healthier, and, in turn, creates a healthier environment for their parents, siblings, and caregivers. The Shower of Love was created to provide access to needed baby-care necessities, thereby reducing parental stress and lessening the risk of child abuse and neglect,” said Michelle McElfresh, coordinator of the Shower of Love event. “Donations from the Shower of Love stock the shelves of the nine nonprofit agencies with baby-care essentials for six to 12 months for St. Charles County families in need. It is our hope that every parent in need will reach out for help and give their precious child the
very best start in life.” The Shower of Love was created after the Community and Children’s Resource Board (CCRB) became alarmed about the number of critical child abuse incidences in St. Charles County. This collaborative effort benefits the following local nonprofits that work directly with these fragile families including: Sts. Joachim & Ann Care Service, Birthright of St. Charles and Wentzville, Crisis Nursery, Nurses for Newborns, Our Lady’s Inn, Mary Queen of Angels, ThriVe and Youth In Need. Local businesses, schools, churches and nonprofits will host drives in April, and volunteers from partnering agencies will be collecting baby items at local grocery stores throughout St. Charles County on April 27. The Shower of Love will collect all types of much-needed baby care items from Enfamil formula to diapers and pull-ups to nursing supplies and baby bottles. Additional donation requests include: baby wash/shampoo/lotion, diaper rash ointment, pacifiers, teething rings, digital thermometers, fragrance free or baby detergent, sippy cups, clothes, crib sheets and car seats. Cash and gift cards are also welcomed, and checks can be made payable to any of the partnering agencies. For more information, to donate, or to serve at a local store, call Michelle McElfresh at 636-9396200.
Weather from Nick’s Window
by Nick Palisch
New clouds on the horizon
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This sounds like a verse out of “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” “You know cumulus, stratus, and cirrus, but do you know the twelve new clouds announced by the World Meteorological Oganization (WMO)?” It has been more than 30 years since new clouds were identified and named by the WMO, but recently they announced a dozen new cloud types to the list. Clouds are important to us because they help to regulate the Earth’s energy balance by reflecting and scattering solar radiation. Clouds also help redistribute heat from the equator to the poles and return precipitation to Earth. There are various types of clouds depending on the level in the atmosphere which include high, mid, and low clouds. The ten most basic clouds include the cirrus, cirrostratus, cirrocumulus, altostratus, altocumulus, nimbostratus, cumulus, stratus and cumulonimbus. Clouds found high in the atmosphere include the cirrus, cirrostratus and cirrocumulus. The cirrus cloud is a wispy looking cloud high in the sky and is made from ice crystals. These clouds are transparent. The cirrostratus cloud is a transparent and whitish veil cloud and often overtakes the entire sky. The cirrocumulus cloud is a thin and white patch or sheet of clouds that lack shading and form ripple looking characteristics. Mid-level clouds include the altostratus, altocumulus and nimbostratus. Altostratus clouds are often grey or bluish and often cover the entire sky. They are a thin cloud that allows the sun or moon to shine through. The altocumulus is the most common mid-level cloud and looks like ripples in the sky. The nimbostratus cloud is a rain cloud and is often grey color because of falling rain or snow. In the low level of the atmosphere we have the cumulus, stratus, cumulonimbus and stratocumulus clouds. The cumulus clouds are the puffy clouds that dot the sky. They
can appear white or dark depending on the sunlight. The cumulus cloud can grow into the cumulonimbus cloud which is commonly known as a “thunderhead.” The cumulonimbus cloud is responsible for thunderstorms that can produce hail and even tornadoes. The stratus cloud is a blanket cloud that often produces rain and snow. These clouds are often thick enough to prevent sunlight and moonlight from radiating through them. As they break up though, the blue sky is often seen behind them. The stratocumulus cloud is a mix of the cumulus and stratus cloud and appear dark in color. One thing to remember is that there are several additional cloud types that form including the mammatus clouds, roll clouds, wall clouds and even fog; but it is important to remember they are the offspring of the more common clouds that we are familiar with in the sky. And now, let me introduce you to the new clouds added to the cloud atlas. The new list includes the volutus, asperitas, cavum, cauda, fluctus, flumen, murus, cataractagenitus, flammagenitus, homogenitus, silagenitus and the homomutatus clouds. These new cloud names just roll of your tongue, right? Until next time, keep your head in the clouds! Nick Palisch is a meteorologist and Missouri native who understands the weather here in our area. He currently resides in Lake Saint Louis and can be reached at nick-wx@sbcglobal.net and you can always get the most up-to-date forecast from the FirstWarn Weather page at www.facebook.com/ nickswx The opinions expressed in this column are the columnist’s alone and do not reflect the opinion of the owners or staff of Community News.
www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • April 5, 2017
Yeggs
John Hanna
‘Yeggs’ is a comic series about Robert and Bill, two rabbits who have opened their own egg franchise in the Midwest (St. Louis area). We follow their day to day lives, watching as they go about the hectic task of preparing for their one big day every year. Along the way they have adventures filled with fun, comic doings and pathos.
Moore On Life
By Cindy Moore
Shoptalk Men and women are definitely poured into different molds. Case in point: I attempted to sneak out of the house the other day for a little retail therapy or as commonly referred to – shopping. Unfortunately, my husband asked to tag along. I refused, but then he offered to drive and push the cart and tote my packages and carry my purse. Hmm, I was on to him. March Madness was over and he was bored. Only after he volunteered to buy lunch did I concede. We arrived at the store whereupon he made mistake number one. He spoke. “What do you need here?” “One does not necessarily ‘need’ anything in particular to shop,” I huffed. We proceeded down the first aisle when I spied some fancy scented candles in jars. I began to open lid after lid and inhale. “Are you buying a candle?” “Silly! I have plenty of candles.” “Why would you stop to open ten jars and smell them if you don’t need one?” My glare was enough to button his lips. We moved on to jewelry. I placed several pairs of earrings up against my ears and admired them in the mirror; I slung a few necklaces over my neck then tried on numerous sparkly rings. He asked, “So what did you decide on?” “Huh? I didn’t come for jewelry,” which left him with a perplexed look. We headed towards shoes. I walked around in dozens of pairs. We left without buying any. He scratched his head, but dared not mutter a peep. The new spring fashions offered an abundance
of activity. I held several shirts up to my neck and ogled at myself in the mirror turning left and right. I tried on several outfits and asked him, “Does this one make my rear look huge?” He gave me the ol’ deer in the headlight look then refused to answer without legal counsel present. I tossed the entire pile into the take-back section and moved on. “You’re not getting any of those?” he wondered. “Nope. Just looking.” “How much longer will it take?” “Three…maybe four more stores.” “But, you’ve not found anything yet!” “I’ll know it when I see it and I haven’t seen it yet.” “So, you’re shopping randomly without a purpose? Isn’t that like letting your surgeon remove multiple organs until he happens to pull out the right one?” I sat him on a bench with a smoothie and told him to sit and stay or I’d surgically remove a few of his organs. That March Madness thingy seriously needs to be extended into May! Cindy Moore is the mother of three superlative kids, servant of two selfindulgent 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.
Around Town
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School
April 5, 2017 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
FHHS Golden Girls win Class 6 Wentzville School District robotics team wins State Championship St. Louis regional competition
Photo courtesy Francis Howell School District The Golden Girls Dance Team of Francis Howell High School won the Class 6 State Championship for the second time in the past three years.
A season that started last April finally culminated in February, when the Golden Girls Dance Team won the Class 6 State Championship for the second time in the past three years. “After the very first practice, I was thinking this team reminds me a lot of our team that won two years ago,” said senior Becca Tierney. “It was such a talented group of girls; I felt it was the strongest team ever. From day one, I thought this team is special, this team is different.” Coach Courtney Kassabaum provided the choreography for the first state championship team, and has served as the head coach for the past two years. The squad that took the state title two years ago won multiple competitions leading up to the finals, and went in as the favorite. This year, the Golden Girls surprised everyone – except for themselves. “We went in as underdogs,” said Kassabaum. “We weren’t expected to win at all. Just to see the girls get rewarded for all of their hard work was more than I could have asked for.” “We overcame a lot of adversity this year,” said senior Kayla Micallef. “We have three alternates, and every single competition someone got hurt and we had to put one of our alternates in to dance. Someone was always stepping up to the plate; it was definitely a team effort!” Tierney says it all came together at precisely the right time. “At state, I just wanted to do our best. I feel like I’m pretty realistic, and there were a lot of good teams. But after our last performance, I thought there’s absolutely nothing that can stop us; our last performance was our best performance of the entire year.” The Golden Girls’ first place performances in both their jazz and hip-hop routines helped propel them to the title, and both were the result of a lot of hard work. “School spirit is our biggest priority, but we are always working on our competition dances,” said Micallef. “We are always in season! The girls in this program never stop working. So at practice we’ll work on a football routine for an hour, and then we’ll work on our competition dances.” Make no mistake, the Golden Girls do a lot more than dance. The student-athletes in the program have a cumulative Grade Point Average of 3.55, and take part in many community service projects. They are actively involved in supporting causes such as the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, First Responders Night, and Pink Out events. They also organized a toy drive during the holidays that donated over $1,500 worth of toys to St. Louis Children’s Hospital. Micallef and Tierney have learned a lot from their Golden Girls experience, and say it is something they will never forget. “I’ll always remember the excitement we had when they announced we had won state, running to hug our parents and our coaches, that’s a feeling that I can’t put into words, but I will always cherish those memories,” said Micallef. “There is something special about getting to dance and compete on stage with your 19 best friends!”
The Wentzville School District Ratchet Rockers Robotics Team was part of an alliance that won the FIRST St. Louis Regional Competition at Chaifetz Arena March 9-11. FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology), is an innovative program that encourages young people to pursue STEM education and career opportunities. Each year, FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) teams participate in a six-week build season that leads them to compete at regional, state, and world competitions. At the St. Louis Regional Competition, the Ratchet Rockers competed in a pool of 52 teams from seven states and earned a ranking of second after qualifiers, finishing the competition with a record of 13-3-0. With ingenuity, hard work and a competitive first seed alliance with FRC Team 1732 Hilltopper Robotics and FRC Team 537 Charger Robotics (both from Wisconsin), the Ratchet Rockers went undefeated in finals and earned a spot at the World Championship in April. The Ratchet Rockers Team also won the Innovation in Control Award for their vision programming and control, which was key in implementing their winning strategy.
Photo courtesy Wentzville School District The Wentzville School District Ratchet Rockers Robotics Team was part of an alliance that won the FIRST St. Louis Regional Competition at Chaifetz Arena March 9-11.
The current FIRST statistics demonstrate how the Ratchet Rockers are paving the way for innovation and technology. The Ratchet Rockers have designed one of only two robots currently competing worldwide that is consistently shooting fuel (balls) in a high goal and scoring 40 points independently. The team has worked tirelessly to improve their shooter and feeder mechanisms to meet this challenge, according to team mentors. The Ratchet Rockers are currently ranked 25th worldwide by FRC Top 25. “This level of performance doesn’t happen by accident. It happens because of dedicated, hardworking students and mentors, backed by the support of the school district and our generous sponsors,” said head coach Darrell Wodrich. “I am very proud of this team.” Once other teams at the
competition saw what the Ratchet Rockers’ robot was capable of, there was a steady stream of students, mentors and engineers studying their shooter and its accuracy. “The team is very proud to be leading the way in STEM and FIRST Robotics for the Wentzville School District,” said Wodrich. The Ratchet Rockers Team is comprised of about 50 students from all three WSD high schools: Holt, Liberty and Timberland. By winning the regional event, they have earned a spot to compete at the World Championship April 2729, 2017 at America’s Center. To learn more about the WSD Ratchet Rockers Team or to learn about sponsorship opportunities, visit their website www.ratchetrockers1706.org, or follow the team on Twitter @ FRC1706, and Facebook.com/ rr1706.
Holt student named KMOX/SEMO Student of Achievement Kelsey Brown, a junior at Holt High School, has been selected as a KMOX/Southeast Missouri State University Student of Achievement. The KMOX Student of Achievement program began 24 years ago when Hall of Fame broadcaster Jack Buck created the scholarship fund to recognize the positive accomplishments of area students. “I am super excited to have received the scholarship because it is allowing me to achieve my goal of becoming an orthopedic nurse so that I can help people,” said Brown. The annual award recognizes a select group of students throughout the St. Louis metropolitan area who have
demonstrated outstanding achievement in academics, athletics, the arts, community service and leadership. Brown has a 3.89 GPA, is a member of National Honor Society, the Holt Band, DECA and she is a Link Crew Leader. She has been on the award winning Holt Dance Team for two years and she is currently the team’s co-captain. Brown has received the Missouri Dance Team Association Academic All-State Award as a sophomore and a junior. “Kelsey is an exemplary student. She is hard working and never gives up when given a task,” said Dance Coach Lori Jones. As a result of her
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accomplishments, Brown will receive a Student of Achievement Scholarship to attend Southeast Missouri State University in the fall of 2018.
www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • April 5, 2017
Business
Battery Outfitters celebrates grand opening with ribbon cutting Curtiis Matthews and Caleb Skaggs celebrated the grand opening of their new business, Battery Outfitters, with a ribbon cutting on March 22. On hand were employees, family and friends, city of Cottleville Mayor Jim Hennessey, board members and ambassadors with the Greater St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce. Battery Outfitters is located at 4638 Mid Rivers Mall Drive and offers batteries for anything you may need – from cell phones and camcorders to RV, marine and automotive batteries. They also provide battery recycling, rebuilds,
Submitted Photo
route service and will replace your car battery for you on the spot. For more information
on Battery Outfitters, please call 636-922-7144 or visit the website at www. batteryoutfitters.com.
SITE Improvement Association awards Francis Howell student a $2,500 college scholarship Dustin Burt, a senior at Francis Howell High School planning to attend Missouri University of Science and Technology, has received a $2,500 scholarship from the SITE Improvement Association to help start his college education. He is one of six local high school seniors and college students with a parent employed by one of the 180 SITE member companies to receive a scholarship from SITE, which is based on students’ academic achievements, involvement in the community and financial need. Burt is pursuing an electrical and mechanical engineering degree. SITE scholarships are made possible through voluntary contributions by SITE member companies and from the SITE Advancement Foundation. More than $250,000 in scholarships have been awarded to 131 students since the program began 17 years ago. “Our members recognize the importance an education provides to the future leaders of our industry, and we demonstrate that by offering the scholarship program,” said SITE Executive Director Terry Briggs. “SITE has one of the longest, continuously running scholarship programs in the local construction industry.”
www.stlrv.net
Diverting THOUSANDS of TONS of waste from local landdlls!
1SDS partners the ReStore with other non-profit organizations so that items get where they need to be to best serve our community. Submitted photo Dustin Burt (left), a senior at Francis Howell High School planning to attend Missouri University of Science and Technology, receives a $2,500 scholarship from SITE Improvement Association President Mike Kappel.
186 Mid Rivers Center St. Peters, MO 63367
SITE is an independent construction contractor group representing more than 180 contractors and businesses primarily in the concrete, earthmoving, landscaping, asphalt paving, highway/bridge, sewer/utility and specialty construction segments.
Wednesday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
St. Charles County ‘Spring Into Jobs’ fair events set for April 10, 11 and 13 The local unemployment rate is at one of its lowest points in years, but employers throughout St. Charles County are eagerly looking for fulltime, part-time, permanent and temporary workers. To help fill the need, the Missouri Job Center of St. Charles County has scheduled three special events for its annual Spring Into Jobs fair. All events are held at the Missouri Job Center at 212 Turner Blvd in St. Peters. • Curbside Event: 2 - 5:30 p.m., April 10 Job-seekers can simply drive by as staff hand out bags filled with help-wanted information. •
Spring Job Fair for Part-Time/Seasonal Opportunities: 3 - 6 p.m., April 11 Attendees should bring their current resume and be ready for on-site interviews.
•
Spring Job Fair for Full-Time, Permanent Opportunities: 3 - 6 p.m., April 13 Attendees should bring their current resume and be ready for on-site interviews.
“Now is a great time to look for a full-time or part-time job in St. Charles County,” says Scott J. Drachnik, Executive Director of the Missouri Job Center of St. Charles County. “We encourage job-seekers to visit our offices prior to these events so our career counselors can work with them on their resumes, interview skills and job goals.” Businesses interested in participating in the upcoming Spring Into Jobs fair can contact Lori Myers at 636-255-6060, ext. 5260, or at lmyers@ sccmo.org. Booths at the fair are $15; companies participating in the curbside event must provide 300 flyers in advance.
donations@ habitatstcharles.org
Instead of what we do take, here is what we don’t take: Used carpeting and pad Hazardous chemicals of any kind Unframed glass/mirrors Anything damaged or dirty beyond use Because old TV’s don’t sell, we recycle them and pass the $15 fee onto the donor.
(636)978-5712
www.stcharlesrestore.org www.stcharlesrestore.org
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10
Sports
April 5, 2017 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
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www.dpc4u.org
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Sports you see with Gary B... Pattonville High golfer shines at Augusta National Golf Club A Pattonville High School 14-year-old freshman, Momo Kikuchi, competed in the drive, chip and putt National Finals at Augusta National Golf Club recently. Overall, she finished tied for eighth out of 10 contestants. The competition is a joint initiative of Photo courtesy Pattonville School the Masters TournaDistrict ment, United States Momo Kikuchi, competed in the Golf Association and drive, chip and putt National Finals The PGA of America. at Augusta National Golf Club Kikuchi played in the female 14-15 year old category and is one of 80 top performers in the nation to qualify for the event. The contest was broadcasted live on the Golf Channel. In her first year at Pattonville this fall, Kikuchi placed 11th in the state for girl’s golf and was named All-Conference First Team. Last summer, she was the champion in her age group at the Gateway PGA’s 18-Hole Final Championship tournament. In the spring of 2015, Kikuchi was chosen by the St. Louis Sports Hall of Fame Golf Committee to receive one of its inaugural Jay Randolph Achievement Awards for her championship play as a St. Louis area amateur golfer in 2014. The award was established to honor the very best amateur youth playing the game of golf in St. Louis. ~~~Thanks to Mickey Schoonover, APR, Director of School-Community Relations-Pattonville School District Indoor football this Saturday as undefeated Raiders take the turf The River City Raiders play professional indoor football and are a member of the Arena Pro Football league with home games at the Family Arena. After an impressive win 45-34 over the Alabama Outlawz in front of the hometown fans, the squad will face the Florida Tarpons with a 7 p.m. start. DeAndre Jackson the 5’ 10” wide receiver assessed last week’s performance. “The defense came to play. We gave up a few early touchdowns on miscues. We fixed it on the drawing board (at halftime) and they basically had a shutout in the second half. Their camaraderie is getting greater and, in this game of football, it
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goes a long way, so I appreciate and want to give a big shout out to our defense.” Go to www.IndoorRaiders.com for more information and some possible free tickets. ~~~Good start to season Professional baseball starts in May The River City Rascals play professional baseball in the West Division of the Frontier League with home games at Car Shield Field in O’Fallon. May 5 at 6:35 p.m. the umpire will yell out those infamous words, “Play ball!” Many opening day activities are planned for the day and evening. Go to www.RiverCityRascals.com for more information. ~~~Come see the new turf Rascal’s invite former St. Louis Cardinals to the Legends Game The team is working hard to get former baseball Cardinals to attend a great nostalgic game perfect for all ages. Lately pitcher John Tudor was the latest addition to the Saint Louis Legends Game. Tudor spent most of his twelve years in the show with the St. Louis Cardinals. He will join former Cardinals including Rick Ankiel, Skip Schumaker, Jim Edmonds, Jason Isringhausen and Fernando Tatis as well as several local celebrities. The Saint Louis Legends game is taking place on Aug. 19 at CarShield Field. The gates will open at 10:45 a.m. for lucky fans who have secured their spot in the sold-out pre-game autograph session. The gates will reopen at noon for the 1 p.m. seven-inning game. ~~~Heroes of the game
Gary B. will be broadcasting the “STL Health and Wellness LIVE” show every Saturday from 9-11 am on 590 The Fan and 590TheFan.com Gary Baute, a St. Louis native, may be educated in business but he lives and breathes sports. As a fan or an athlete, Gary is all sports all the time. He hosted a radio sports program on KFNS, emceed the River City Rascals’ inaugural season, and co-hosted SportsRadioSTL.com, among many other activities.
www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • April 5, 2017
Learn & Play
11
Guilt-free comfort foods Low Carb Cranberry-Ginger Pork Roast Servings: 4 | Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 8 hours
Ingredients:
1/2 cup cranberries 1/8 cup sugar-free maple syrup 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger 1/2 cup chicken broth, bouillon or consomme 1/2 cup (4 ounces) water 1/8 teaspoon guar gum or xanthan gum 1 tablespoon unsalted butter stick (optional)
Cooking oil 2 pounds pork chops or roast (center rib, bone-in) 1/4 teaspoon salt, plus additional for seasoning 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus additional for seasoning 1/2 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce
– SUDOKU –
Directions:
Prepare skillet with small amount of oil over medium-high heat. Season chops or roast with salt and pepper then place into skillet and brown each side for about 1 minute, 4 minutes total, to help seal in moisture and give it color. Set aside on plate to cool slightly. Finely dice chipotle pepper and chop cranberries, if desired. In small bowl, combine syrup, diced chipotle, ginger, 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper. Rub mixture onto roast then place it into slow cooker. Add cranberries and pour chicken broth down side of pan (avoiding rinsing rub from roast). Cover and cook on low 8-10 hours.
Remove roast and set on serving platter covered with tent of aluminum foil; reserving liquid.
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.
Keep slow cooker on low and add water and guar gum or xanthan gum to reserved mixture, whisking to combine. Continue to cook on low heat until sauce thickens slightly. Once thick, enrich sauce, if desired, with butter, adding additional salt and pepper, to taste. Serve sauce over pork roast. Tip: While it is not necessary to chop cranberries (they will break down while cooking), chopping them makes sauce smoother.
Low Carb Browned Pumpkin with Maple and Sage Servings: 4 | Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 15 minutes
I ngredients: 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter stick 1/2 pound pumpkin 1/8 cup chopped shallots salt
freshly ground black pepper 1/4 cup bouillon vegetable broth 1/16 cup sugar-free maple syrup 1/8 teaspoon sage, ground
Directions:
In medium skillet over medium-high heat, heat butter. Cube pumpkin into 3/4inch chunks. Add pumpkin and shallots to pan; season with salt and pepper. Saute until pumpkin is lightly browned and shallots are translucent, approximately 5-6 minutes. Turn heat to low, add vegetable broth and simmer, covered, 8-10 minutes until pumpkin is tender. Add maple syrup and sage, tossing to combine. Serve immediately. See solution on page 13
Tip: Use fresh sage (7-8 leaves), if possible.
Crossword Puzzle: THEME: OUTDOOR FUN ACROSS 1. Big Ben’s face 6. “C’____ la vie!” 9. Hefty competitor 13. Water-resistant wool cloth 14. William F. Cody, ____ Buffalo Bill 15. Domenikos Theotokopoulos, a.k.a. El _____ 16. Food-borne bacteria 17. Bro to sis or sis to bro 18. Bat dwelling? 19. *It lights up the sky 21. *S’more cooker 23. Turkish title of respect 24. Sensational promotion 25. *Take a first aid one on a camping trip 28. Lover of Aeneas 30. *____ and field 34. Singular of #26 Down 36. Lagerlöf’s “The Wonderful Adventures of ___” 38. Where there’s trouble? 40. Ripped 41. Labored breaths 43. 43,560 square feet 44. *Done to get in a race 46. Stash in the hold 47. Multicolored horse 48. Type of car
50. Greek Hs 52. *Picnic invader 53. Make like a cat 55. Nuke 57. *High ride 61. *Requires luring 65. Roundish 66. Variable, abbr. 68. “Roots” author 69. Shoe binders 70. Shoshonean 71. Discrimination against seniors 72. Soon, to a bard 73. The day before 74. “The Second Coming” poet DOWN 1. Staff leader 2. Places 3. Carbon monoxide lacks this 4. “The Late Show” guest 5. Stabbed 6. No problem 7. *Used on powder and water 8. Brindled kitty 9. Tennis great Steffi 10. First name in jeans 11. Maple, to a botanist 12. Doctor’s order
15. Genus in plural 20. What Pinocchio was doing? 22. Make a choice 24. Gun sleeve 25. *On a string 26. Paintings in an Orthodox church 27. Layered cake 29. “Days” in Havana 31. At a great distance 32. Served hot in winter 33. God’s revelation to Muhammad 35. Financial aid criterion 37. Dick and Jane’s pet 39. *Camping abode 42. Mbabane native 45. *Shoot this? 49. Teresa of Calcutta, e.g. 51. Move sideways 54. A variety show 56. Bacteriophage, informally 57. French novelist Émile 58. Popular Russian name 59. Little bit, in Mexico 60. Right to a property 61. “Born ____,” movie 62. Pelvic parts 63. Home on a limb 64. Fitness centers 67. *For any terrain
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What’s Happening
April 5, 2017 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
Send your event to editor@mycnews.com and we'll print it! EVENTS April 6-8: Theater performance
The Francis Howell High School’s Award Winning Limelight Theatre proudly presents their Spring Production of the Pulitzer Prize winning play “Crimes of the Heart” by Beth Henley. Performances will take place April 6, 7 and 8 beginning at 7 p.m. nightly with an additional 1 p.m. matinee on April 8 in the Auditorium of Francis Howell High at 7001 Hwy. 94 South, St. Charles. Tickets are $5 per person for all shows and are available at the door. For more information, please contact Edward Cole, Theatre Director at Edward.cole@fhsdschools.org.
April 7: Underwater egg hunt
What’s pools of fun for kids ages fourto-12? It’s the O’Fallon Parks and Recreation Underwater Egg Hunt at the Renaud Spirit Center (RSC) at 2650 Tri Sports Circle in O’Fallon. The event will be held from 6 – 8 p.m. and the Easter Bunny is sure to be there. The cost is $12 for O’Fallon residents and $15 for non-residents, and preregistration is required by March 31. For the hunt, kids will be divided into age groups to search for eggs, and prizes will be awarded after the eggs are collected. Kids should bring swim goggles and a waterproof container for egg gathering. Parents can register kids at the Renaud Spirit Center, or online at www.ofallon.mo.us/ parks&rec. Select “Special Events” and look for Underwater Egg Hunt, course number 410104-A. Family members who want to swim but who are not participating in the egg hunt can register for $5 (410104-B). For more information, please call front desk staff at 636-474-2732.
April 7: Adult Easter egg hunt
O’Fallon’s Adult Easter Egg Hunt takes over Sports Park from 7 – 10 p.m. in O’Fallon. An expected 400 attendees will hunt for Easter eggs, but instead of candy, each egg will represent a different craft beer, completing a mixand-match six-pack at the end of the hunt. Prior to and post-hunt, attendees will have the opportunity to sample beers from local and regional craft breweries. Attendees will have the opportunity to win door prizes, including additional beer, throughout the event. Food trucks will be onsite for purchase. Tickets are $18 in advance and $20 at the door, if they are not sold out prior to the event. Each ticket includes up to six craft beers, an event tshirt and a commemorative pint glass. All participants must be 21 or older. The hunt will be held rain or shine. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit www.1065thearch. com.
April 7: Fish fry
A fish fry will take place at All Saints Parish at 7 McMenamy Road in St. Peters each Friday evening during Lent except Good Friday from 4 - 7 p.m. sponsored by the Knights of Columbus. Eat in, carry out and drive-up service available.
April 8: Veterans connect event
Veterans Connect is a special, one-ofa-kind, free event that will connect our local veterans with the benefits that are available to them at the St Charles Community College/Student College Center Building at 4601 Mid Rivers Mall Dr. in Cottleville from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. The event will have several information booths and companies providing free suits for veterans for job interviews. Provided by Dress for Success/Connections to Success. They will also provide information stating all the benefits and classes they provide for veterans. Money Management Education; there will be classes how to rebuild your credit, and a lot more. Education Information; veteran friendly schools, St Charles Community College and Ranken College will be there providing class information and to answer questions regarding the GI Bill. Free food will be provided. Veteran information will be provided by the following attendees: St Charles County Workforce Development, Missouri Veterans Commission, St. Louis Police Academy Recruiter, VA Home Loan Specialist, Commerce Bank, St. Joachim & Ann. Many other veteran related information will also be provided. For more information visit http://veteransconnectevent.weebly.com/.
April 10-12: Used book sale
The St. Charles Community College library will host its 24th annual used book sale from 7:30 a.m.-10 p.m. April 10-12. The book sale is part of the celebration for National Library Week, which is April 9-15. The sale will be in the Paul and Helen Schnare Library, located in the Learning Resource Center on the SCC campus, 4601 Mid Rivers Mall Drive in Cottleville. Both fiction and non-fiction material will be available. Books will be sold for $.50 for paperbacks and $1 for hardbacks. Faculty, students and friends of SCC have donated books, and other books are withdrawn from the library’s collection. The library is still accepting donations of used books. Proceeds from the sale will be used to purchase new materials for the SCC library. For more information, call Theresa Flett at 636-922-8620.
April 14: Good Friday service
Ministry to Men is holding their annual Good Friday Service at Grace
Community Chapel St. Peters at 7661 Mexico Rd. in St. Peters. Featured speaker is Michael Burke author of “Waiting to Die, Running to Live.” Doors open at 7 a.m. and the service concludes at 11:30 a.m. Refreshments provided, all men are welcome. For more information contact Derrill Martin at dmartin@ministrytomen. net or call 636-720-1202.
636-922-8050. To purchase visit stchastickets.com.
tickets,
April 21: Spaghetti dinner
St. John UCC Music Ministry presents “Requiem” by Gabriel Faure, featuring St. John Chamber Choir, orchestra, and soloists at 7 p.m. Cantata will also have an original Holy Week narration written and read by Dr. Candice Coleman. St. John United Church of Christ is located at 405 S Fifth Street in St. Charles. For more information visit www.stjohnucc.org.
The Optimist Club of St. Charles will host its’ 46th Annual Spaghetti Dinner. Lunch/dinner will be served at Memorial Hall (lower level) at Blanchette Park in St. Charles from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Patrons will enjoy a traditional Italian Spaghetti Dinner with all the trimmings. The Italian cuisine from Pio’s Restaurant will be featured. Salad, drinks and dessert are included. Wine for adults and soft drinks will be available for all. One price for all is $10 (Children five and under are free). Tickets are available from any Optimist member, at the door or by calling Dale Westby at 314-550-7723, Sharon North at 636-724-0148, or Gerry Prinster at 314-973-2928.
April 14: Spring Fling Carnival
April 21, 23: Choir concert
April 14: Good Friday Cantata
The Holt High School DECA Chapter will be hosting the 18th Annual Spring Fling at Holt High School from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. This year’s event will feature egg hunts, food, prizes, a coloring contest, a bounce house, games and appearances from local mascots and the fire department. Admission is free and game tickets are five for $1 with plenty of prizes available for the winners. There will also be a raffle for themed baskets, and tickets for the basket raffle are $1 each or six for $5. The free egg hunts will be broken down into two age groups; preschool through first grade beginning at 11 a.m., and second - fifth grade beginning at 12 p.m. All proceeds from the event will go towards the local scholarship fund for Holt DECA National Qualifiers to help with expenses at the International DECA competition. For more information, please contact the event coordinator Jolene Wofford at 636-327-3876, extension 26422 or jolenewofford@wsdr4.org.
April 16: Community Prayer Wall
Continuing until Easter Sunday, St. John UCC, at 405 S Fifth Street in St. Charles, will have a Community Prayer Wall outside the church along Fifth Street. People from the community are encouraged to write prayers on strips of cloth and tie them to the Prayer Wall.
April 19-23: Theater performance
St. Charles Community College’s Center Stage Theatre will present “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” in the Donald D. Shook Fine Arts Building theater on the SCC campus. The show will be performed at 7:30 p.m. April 19-22; 10 a.m. April 20; and 2 p.m. April 23. Tickets are free to SCC students with ID, or $8 general admission and $6 seniors, veterans and students. The campus is located at 4601 Mid Rivers Mall Drive in Cottleville. For more information, contact Jean Deimund at jdeimund@stchas.edu or
Choral Arts Singers, Francis Howell North High School Concert Choir, and members of the St. Charles Symphony will perform Joseph Haydn’s “Kleine Orgelmasse mass in B/Bflat Major” and other selections on April 21 at 7:30 p.m. at Zion Lutheran Church at 3866 S. Old Hwy 94 in St. Charles, and April 23 at 2 p.m. at Assumption Chapel at 403 N. Main in O’Fallon. Admission is $7 for adults and $3 for children (ages six-18). For more information visit www.concertarts.org.
April 22: Plant sale
The Lincoln County Master Gardeners sixth annual plant sale takes place from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. in the front parking lot of Valvoline Express Care at The Plaza in Troy. (Rain date April 29). For more information, please call 636528-4613 or check out the Facebook page, Lincoln County Master Gardeners.
April 22: Alzheimer’s workshop
Would you like to know the 10 early warning signs of Alzheimer’s Disease and separate myth from reality on this subject? Plan to attend a workshop on this subject from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Cornerstone UMC at 1151 Tom Ginnever Avenue in O’Fallon. For more information call 636-379-5334.
April 22: Trivia night
Ryan Martin Foundation trivia night will be held at the American Legion Hall at 504 Leutkenhaus Blvd. in Wentzville. The proceeds will benefit meningitis awareness. Registration will be at 6:30 p.m. and trivia will begin at 7 p.m. Cost is $20 per person up to eight per team. Prizes for first, second and last place. Mulligans $2 each/10 max per team, 50/50 raffle and auction items. Bring your own snacks and there will be a cash bar. Call 636-7752231 or Courtney at 636-346-5747 or ryanpaulsmom@yahoo.com for more information.
April 23: Country music show
The Gateway Country Music Association presents their Spring Show at Wentzville Holt High School C. H. Jones Auditorium at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 and available at door or reserved sears by calling Beverly at 636384-0916 or Dean at 636-795-2014.
April 23: Gospel concert
Bring the Family to experience The Lesters in concert at Dardenne Baptist Church at 2345 Oak Dr. in O’Fallon at 5:30 p.m. They are often referred to as “St. Louis’ First Family of Gospel Music.” Admission is free. For more information visit www.dardennebaptistchurch.org.
April 25: Band concert
The After Hours Community Band, founded in 1986, under direction of Carol Commerford and Sandra Stoeckel will perform their annual Spring Concert at 7:30 p.m. at Calvary Church at 3998 Mid Rivers Mall Drive in St. Peters. The selection of music for the evening will include show
tunes, marches, movie themes and always featured is a composition by Missouri composer, Claude T. Smith. Admission is free. More information at www.ahcb.org or call Joyce at 636946-7848.
April 27: Alzheimer’s awareness breakfast
Church of the Shepherd in St. Charles is hosting the Alzheimer’s Association’s Shedding Light on Alzheimer’s breakfast to raise awareness of the sixth leading cause of death. The faith community is invited to attend the educational event from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Shedding Light is a breakfast for faith leaders, clergy, Stephen Ministers, lay stewards, parish nurses, ministerial alliance members, chaplains and concerned community members. Attendees will learn to identify the signs and symptoms of dementia, discover ways to help congregants through the journey of Alzheimer’s, an overview of Alzheimer’s disease and learn ways to support Alzheimer’s families in their congregation facing Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. This event is free but registration is required. To RSVP, contact Rev. Regina Lowe at rlowe@ alz.org or call 800-272-3900.
April 28: Trivia night
Girlfriends for Good will hold its seventh annual trivia night to benefit Youth In Need at the Machinists’ Hall in Bridgeton at 12365 St. Charles Rock Road. Tables of eight are $200 and include beer, soda and snacks. Doors open at 6 p.m., trivia begins at 7 p.m. Sponsor a round for $50. All proceeds benefit Youth In Need. For more information, contact Cody Finan, Community Engagement Coordinator, at cfinan@youthinneed.org or 636-7579334.
April 29: Benefit shrimp boil
Friedens UCC, at 1703 Old Hwy 94 S in St. Charles, is hosting its annual Benefit Shrimp Boil at 6 p.m. 100 percent of the proceeds will benefit the Back Bay Mission in Biloxi, Mississippi. Call 636-724-1918 to get your reservations, seating is limited. For more information go to www.friedens-ucc. org.
April 29: Motorcycle rally
St. Charles H.O.G. Chapter #2527 presents Hot Hogs Spring Rally 2017. Register from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Saint Charles Harley-Davidson. Ride starts at 10 a.m. and ends at 3:30 p.m. Event includes scenic ride, hot dogs, live band, attendance prizes and a blessing of the bikes. This is an open ride, all bikes are welcome. There will be a $150 first prize, $100 second prize and $50 third prize. Rain date will be May 6. For more information Contact Gene Manning at gman151@centurylink.net.
April 29: That ‘80s Run
That ‘80s Run and its coordinating wellness expo – Exporama – is set on the St. Charles Community College campus, Great River Greenway trails and the streets of Cottleville. Once again featured at the annual run event will be the popular 10K Race (6.2 miles), 5K Race (3.1 miles) and Radical Mile. The 5K/10K will start at 7:30 a.m. in front of the SCC Student Center in the Green Parking Lot and finish in the same location. The Radical Mile will start at 9:15 a.m. near the entrances to the Red and Green parking lots on campus and will finish in the same location. Participants are encouraged to dress in ‘80s clothes or as their favorite ‘80s pop icon. Music from the era will be played by Precision Health Group and other ‘80s fun includes a photo booth, custom throwback finisher medals, dry-tec Tshirts (guaranteed for registrations received by April 8) and special surprise awards. The entry fee for the Radical Mile is $20, late registration (April 1-21) is $25 and race-week registration (April 22-29, including day-of) is $30. Entry for the 10K and 5K is $30,
www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • April 5, 2017 late registration (April 1-21) is $35 and race-week registration (April 22-29, including day-of) is $40. The entry fee includes a dry-tec T-shirt (guaranteed for registrations received by April 8), refreshments and tickets into the prize basket drawings. For more information or to register, please visit the event website, that80srun.org.
April 30: All-you-can-eat breakfast
The Knights of Columbus at St. Robert Bellarmine Church at 1424 First Capitol Drive South in St. Charles will hold an all-you-can-eat breakfast from 8 to 11:30 a.m. Breakfast includes: madeto-order omelets, pancakes, sausages, scrambled eggs, biscuits and gravy, juice, milk and coffee (cost for adults is $7, children six to 11 are $4, children five and under are free). In addition a blood drive will be held at the same time as the breakfast. Those who donate blood that day will receive a free breakfast. For additional information please call 636-946-6799”
April 30: St. Peters Choral Society Spring Concert
St. Peters Choral Society under the direction of John H. Smith, will present its 26th annual Spring Concert; “America! United We Stand” at 2 p.m. at the Fort Zumwalt South High School Auditorium at 8050 Mexico Road in St. Peters. Tickets are available from members: $10 for adults and $5 for kids 12 and under. Tickets also available at the door until sold out. Go to www.stpeterschoralsociety.org for further information or call 636-4475341.
May 1: Card party
St. Robert Bellarmine Ladies Council is hosting their annual card party. Doors open at 10:30 a.m. with lunch being served at 11:30 a.m. Price is $12 (lunch included). There will be attendance prizes. For reservations contact Cathy at 636-723-0436. St. Robert Bellarmine is located at 1424 South First Capitol Dr. in St. Charles (at corner of S. Hwy 94 and Sherman Dr.).
May 3: Mercy Hospice new volunteer training
Mercy Hospice is currently seeking volunteers to offer support and comfort to patients and families in your community. Volunteers are matched with opportunities to serve according to their schedules, skills, comfort levels and geographic areas. Volunteer opportunities include: caregiver relief, companionship, bereavement support, administrative assistance, and other opportunities. The next free four week training at the St. Louis office will be Tuesdays – May 2, 9, 16, and 23, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. The next free three week training at the Washington office will be Wednesdays – May 3, 10, 17, and 24, 1 – 5 p.m. To register or ask any questions please contact Mercy Hospice Volunteer Coordinator, Paula Minogue, at 314-729-4415 or Paula. Minogue@mercy.net.
May 5: Job fair
St. Charles Community College will host Job Fair 2017 from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. in the College Center, located at 4601 Mid Rivers Mall Drive in Cottleville. Admission is free to all job seekers. This fair provides opportunities for job seekers to find job leads, job train-
SUDOKU answers from page 11
ing and job search information and networking opportunities. Job seekers are encouraged to bring copies of their resume. Interested employers may register online at www.stchas.edu/jobfair, beginning March 1. Space is limited, so register early. Employer registrations will be accepted until April 28. The fair is open to business and industry employers from profit and nonprofit organizations. The annual event is sponsored by three cooperating St. Charles County agencies and institutions. Last year, 330 area job seekers attended the event. A registration fee of $70 for nonprofit organizations or $95 for profit organizations includes one 2.5’x6’ table, two chairs, a continental breakfast, up to two box lunches and all advertising for the event. For more information about the fair, Jenny Hahn Schnipper, 636-922-8244 or jschnipper@stchas.edu.
May 5: Job fair
St. Charles Community College will host Job Fair 2017 from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. in the College Center, located at 4601 Mid Rivers Mall Drive in Cottleville. Admission is free to all job seekers. This fair provides opportunities for job seekers to find job leads, job training and job search information and networking opportunities. Job seekers are encouraged to bring copies of their résumé. Employers already registered to attend the event include: Ameristar Casino, Brinton Vision, Central Bank of St. Louis, Charter Spectrum, Delmar Gardens of O’Fallon, Dierbergs, Easterseals Midwest, Enterprise Fleet Management, First Bank, Lowe’s, Mercy, Midwest Petroleum Company, SSM Health, St. Charles Parks Department, St. Charles Police Department, True Manufacturing and UPS. For a full listing of registered employers, visit stchas.edu/jobfair.
May 5-7: Theater performance
Wentzville Christian Church proudly presents a community theater production of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.” The church will offer four performances of the musical: May 5 at 7 p.m.; May 6 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. and a special matinee on May 7 at 2 p.m. Admission to the performances is free and open to the public. Seating is first come, first served. Doors open 30 minutes before each performance. Wentzville Christian Church is located at 1507 Hwy. Z (1 mile south of I-70). For more information call 636327-6622 or visit the church website at wentzvillecc.org.
May 6: Pancake breakfast
Wentzville Rainbow Assembly #114 for Girls is sponsoring an all-you-caneat pancake fundraiser breakfast from 7 to 11 a.m. at Troy Masonic Lodge at 611 Main St. in Troy. Advance tickets are $5 or $7 at the door. Children under three are free. Contact angie. dodson96@gmail.com for tickets or takeout orders.
in being a vendor or sponsor, please email winfieldmarketonmain@gmail. com or call 636-668-8100. The market will operate on Saturday through October 28.
May 13: Pancake breakfast
The Knights of Columbus council 7198 Ladies Auxiliary will host a Chris Cakes Pancake Breakfast at Knights of Columbus Pezold Banquet Center at 5701 Highway N in Cottleville from 8 to 11 a.m. The price is $7 for adults and $4 for kids which includes all-you-can-eat pancakes, sausage, orange drink and coffee. There will also be specialty cakes for sale for Mother’s Day.
What’s Happening
Mondays: Take off Pounds Sensibly
Take off pounds Sensibly (TOPS) meets every Monday from 9:30 - 10:30 a.m. Weigh-ins begin at 8:30 a.m. We meet at Blanchette Park at 1900 Randolph Street in St. Charles. For more information contact Grace at 636-9464687.
Mondays: Take Off Pounds Sensibly
TOPS meet every Monday at Holy Cross Lutheran Church at 8945 Veterans Memorial Highway in O’Fallon. Meetings at 9:30 a.m. with weigh in beginning at 8:30 a.m. For more information please all Linda Wilcox at 636-447-9056.
Get your event or good news published in Community News:
email your information in calendar and article to editor@mycnews.com.
May 23-24: Theater auditions
Center Stage Theatre will hold open auditions for “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” at 7 p.m. May 23-24. Auditions will be held in the Donald D. Shook Fine Arts Building theater on the St. Charles Community College campus. Callbacks will be at 7 p.m. May 25. Six roles are available: Charlie Brown, Lucy Van Pelt, Linus Van Pelt, Snoopy, Sally Brown and Schroeder. The audition will consist of singing 16 bars of a traditional show tune and a cold reading from the script. Please bring your own sheet music. Monologues are encouraged but not required. The show will be performed at 7:30 p.m. July 26-29 and 2 p.m. July 29-30. Tickets are free to SCC students with ID, or $8 general admission and $6 seniors, veterans and students. The campus is located at 4601 Mid Rivers Mall Drive in Cottleville. For more information, contact Lynne Snyder, director, at lsnyder@stchas.edu or 636922-8352.
Sept. 9: Craft fair
Tri County Advisory Board to Probation and Parole, Probation and Parole District 17, Missouri Department of Correction invites you to their Fifth Annual Christmas in September Craft Fair at Calvary Church at 3998 Mid Rivers Mall Drive in St. Peters from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Crafters are needed, please contact Esther Angelos at marlofan@charter.net, 636-441-0329 or 314-477-5096
ONGOING EVENTS Sundays and Tuesdays: Central Missouri Railroad Association meeting
The Central Missouri Railroad Association meets at Suite 20 in the Warrenton Outlet Mall. This unique organization is for railroad modelers, railfans, photographers and railroad retirees with layouts in O, HO, N hoping to add G scales. Meetings are on Sundays from 1 to 5 p.m. and Tuesdays from 7 to 9 p.m. For more info call 636-2795522 or 636-456-0776.
www.wentzvillecc.org
May 6: Market on Main opening day
Market on Main opening day will take place at 210 E. Main Street in Winfield (at the intersection of Elm and Hwy 79/Main Street) from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Farmers and artisans market vendors include Penrod’s Meat, Argentville Dairy, J&L Farms, Brushy Creek Farms, Forever & Always Sweets and Treats and much more. If interested CROSSWORD answers from page 11
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Celebrates our Assisted Living Open House
Join us for an evening of Jazz Wednesday, April 12, 2017 3:30 - 6:30 p.m. Hor D’oeuvres ~ Cocktails ~ Music ~ Tours Call 636-946-4966, ext. 1130 to RSVP 2150 W Randolph Street | St. Charles, MO 63301 | (636)946-4966
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April 5, 2017 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
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“Wonder Woman”
By Steve Bryan
Can ‘Wonder Woman’ restart the cinematic DC Comics universe?
M O V I E
Coming off the wild success of their 2014 “The Guardians of the Galaxy” movie, “Saturday Night Live” poked fun at Marvel Studios and their incredible success with obscure characters. “Guardians” was so popular, in fact, that the sequel earned a coveted May release date this year. Not bad for a team containing Rocket Raccoon and a hero who loves 1980’s mixtapes. And who doesn’t love a Baby Groot? In contrast, the folks adapting DC Comics characters had a rough time as of late in their movies. Christian Bale’s Batman dominated the box office in three films years ago, but Ben Affleck, the latest man in the cape and cowl, was not as well-received. It’s also difficult to tell if “Suicide Squad,” a DC cult favorite from the 1980’s, was a hit or a miss. Rabid fans loved it and attacked the critics that panned it, but the box office totals were not outstanding. “Wonder Woman,” due for a June 2 release, should be a good indicator of how the DC Comics Universe will do going forward. Created in the 1940’s
by William Moulton Marston, Princess Diana came from an island of Amazonian warriors where men were not allowed. She arrived in the United States in time to battle the Nazi’s and join her place in what would eventually become DC’s legion of heroes. Patty Jenkins steps behind the camera for the film adaptation, using a script that was partially developed by Zack Snyder. A polarizing figure with comic book fans, Snyder directed both “The Watchmen” and “Batman v. Superman,” but his efforts in both were heavily criticized. His work on the up-
coming “Justice League” movies will either redeem or break him for good. Though the script deviates from the original Wonder Woman history, the trailers for the film have been exceptionally good. Gal Gadot, who debuted as the character in “Batman v. Superman,” brings a sharper edge to her performance than predecessor Linda Carter did in the 1970s. Chris Pine also seems to be a better fit for Steve Trevor, Diana’s love interest, than Lyle Waggoner was back in the day. The story also has some light touches as well. Lucy Davis is
Photo courtesy DC Entertainment
perfectly cast as Etta Candy, the lady who becomes a good friend to Wonder Woman. Etta tries to help Diana adapt to a world where the skirts are not suitable for fighting and long swords should never be carried in public. “Wonder Woman” makes her debut in June, which seems like the right time in the summer movie calendar. The Amazonian princess will pave the way for the “Justice League” movie if she can win over fans and deflect the bullets of critics with her bracelets. Maybe she can use her golden lasso of truth to get some honest reviews as well. 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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