November 23, 2016
History looking for a home Around Town
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Boeing celebrates history
Special Section
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Holiday shopping guide
Photo courtesy city of O’Fallon The city of O’Fallon is looking for a buyer for the Krekel House, a downtown landmark on the corner of Main and Civic Park Drive that has been identified as the first building in O’Fallon.
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Wentzville Middle receives grant
The city of O’Fallon is looking for a buyer for the historic Krekel House, identified as the first building in the city By Brett Auten The city of O’Fallon just isn’t sure what to do with the Krekel House. A downtown landmark, the white, two-story building parked on the corner of Main and Civic Park Drive has been identified as the first building in O’Fallon. Built by Nicholas Krekel, who was also the town’s first resident in 1856, the building sits at 103 North Main Street. Krekel was a literal a jack of all trades and the face of the town, serving as O’Fallon’s first postmaster, railroad agent and business owner. John Griesenauer is the administrative services director with the city and his great-grandmother lived in the house before the family eventually sold it. During – and after – Krekel’s time the space was a general store and then for decades Happy Time daycare facility. The building has been standing empty since 2007.
“We would love to see someone wiling to buy it and restore it to its former glory,” Griesenauer said, “or at least the desire is to keep the outside original and not have it torn down. The city wants to see it remain. The Krekel House was important to our growth.” With its high ceilings, large rooms and downtown location, Griesenauer believes the historic home could be anything from a small business to fully-restored living quarters. “It would take somebody who has a love for old homes or restoring,” he said. “It’s a unique home and it will take someone who can see what it can become.” In 2007, the O’Fallon City Council authorized the spending of $275,000 to buy the house for historical preservation. Soon the recession hit and delivered blows to the town’s budget. Hopes and ideas for renovations were either delayed or never came to fruition. “There were talks of a possible mu-
seum or meeting space,” Tom Drabelle, O’Fallon Director of Public Relations, said. “The cost benefit just wasn’t there.” The Request for Proposal (RFP) is See HISTORY page 2
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A twist on a timeless holiday dish
Movie: Thanksgiving movies 2016
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Around Town Vol. 18 No. 47
In This Issue... 3 Around Town
St. Charles Sister Cities delegation travels to Germany and more.
6 Special Section
Holiday Shopping Guide
8 School
Francis Howell students recognized as National Merit Semi-Finalists and more.
9 Business
Local unemployment falling again amidst wage pressures and hiring wave and more.
10 Sports
Local sports with Gary B.
11 Learn & Play
Featuring recipe and crossword.
12 What’s Happening 14 Classifieds 16 Movie
No turkeys in the new batch of Thanksgiving movies.
November 23, 2016 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
HISTORY Continued from cover available on the city’s website, www.ofallon.mo.us. In addition to instructions for submissions, the RFP also contains details of the building’s history, size and other data, and the terms, conditions and limitations on the use of the property. Currently the site is zoned R-3, Garden Apartment and Condo, but the city would consider rezoning the property for a suitable commercial use. Facility tours of the property are available upon request. If no offers or inquires make sense, for the city it
Photo courtesy city of O’Fallon The city of O’Fallon is looking for a buyer for the Krekel House, a downtown landmark on the corner of Main and Civic Park Drive that has been identified as the first building in O’Fallon.
Admission wristbands are available now for O’Fallon’s Celebration of Lights walk-through Avoid the wait at the gate by purchasing admission wristbands in advance for the OldFashioned Holiday Stroll on Dec. 12 and 13. The walkthrough will be held from 6 – 9 p.m. in Fort Zumwalt Park, and the cost is $3 for ages three and up, and free for younger children. Wristbands can be purchased through Dec. 9, at the Parks and Recreation Administration Office located at 400 Civic Park Drive (across the street from Civic Park), Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information call 636-379-6514. On these two nights, millions of lights will be twinkling along a route lined with whimsical holiday scenes featuring favorite movie and storyland characters, inspiring nativities, and more. Along the way, warm up with a cup of cocoa, visit with Santa, listen as carolers fill the air with music, and catch the excitement of fireworks over
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Published weekly since 1921. Serving St. Louis, St. Charles and Lincoln Counties. Publisher Robert J. Huneke Editor Mathew DeKinder Production Manager Rebecca Brockmann Production Assistants Lisa Moran, Melissa Nordmann Staff Writers Brett Auten, Nicholas Elmes Columnists Gary Baute, Steve Bryan, Cindy Moore Cartoonist John Hanna Staff Photographer Ray Rockwell Social Media Lori North Classified Advertising Brooke Tolle Display Advertising Randy Davies, Heather Deatz, Susan Faust, Doug Garbs, Bob Huneke, Norm Merchant, Tony Mooney, Christy Parks, Laurie Simon, Ty Taylor, Christy Weber Circulation: Distributech, Dominion Distribution, Papers Unlimited, Josh Blasingame Community News is a Registered Trademark of Huneke Publications, Inc. Neither the advertiser nor the publisher is responsible or liable for misinformation, misprints, typographical errors, etc., herein contained. Huneke Publications, Inc. reserves the right to accept or reject all news and advertising copy which in the sole judgement and discretion of the publisher/editor is not suitable or deemed appropriate for publication. Copyright 2016 Huneke Publica tions, Inc. with all rights reserved. No part of the publications may be reproduced in any form without permission in writing from the publisher/editor. Publication of advertising contained herein does not necessarily constitute endorsement. Signed columns are the opinion of the writers and not necessarily the opinion of the publisher. Entire Contents Copyrighted
will be on to Plan B. “We will go back to the drawing board,” Drabelle said. “Maybe it was a timing issue? What’s our best option? We have had inquires on it in the past. Let’s see if we can get any bids now.” All inquiries and questions concerning the Request for Proposals shall be directed to Julie Moellering, Purchasing Agent city of O’Fallon, at 636379-5527 or jmoellering@ofallon.mo.us.
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Lake Whetsel (7:25 p.m.). Visitors also can: • Step into the historic Heald Home and shop for hand-crafted holiday gifts, decorations, winter wear, blankets, jewelry and baked goodies. • Visit the St. Charles Model Railroad Club’s display of working model trains rolling past miniature city and country landscapes. www. stcharlesrailroadclub.org/ Pedestrians are welcome to bring strollers, wagons, walkers and wheelchairs, but no pets or dogs (except service dogs), motorized hoverboards, kids’ scooters, bikes or skateboards will be allowed. Watch for signs near the park for free parking and shuttle service from the First Baptist Church, 8750 Veterans Memorial Parkway, and O’Fallon Christian Church, 9380 Veterans Memorial Parkway.
www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • November 23, 2016
Around Town
St. Charles Sister Cities delegation travels to Germany By Janet Antonucci
In 1956 President Dwight D. Eisenhower envisioned a “people-to-people” program where different cultures would celebrate and appreciate their differences and build partnerships that would create bonds to promote peace and prosperity in hopes of lessening the chances of conflicts. Sixty years later, with the support of the most recent presidents, Eisenhower’s dreams continue to flourish. In September 2016, the community of St. Charles proudly celebrated their 20th Anniversary with their Sister City in Ludwigsburg, Germany. Some residents of St. Charles including eleven members of the German Chapter, Marilyn Otto, Carol Hertensteiner, Neal and Pat Lang, Ruby and Paul Woerner, and Janet Antonucci; Sister Cities President, Joe Daues, along with Mayor Sally Faith, enjoyed the many festivities and delicious German delicacies. But what stood out the most was the friendliness, the graciousness, and the bonding among the mayors and representatives from the other Sister City delegations of Montbeliard, France; Novy Jicin, Czech Republic; and Caerphilly, Wales. They came to share and celebrate this milestone including giving gifts to the mayor. Five country delegations dined together and toasted to their countries’ health, well-being, and peace. When the German Lord Mayor, Werner Spec broke out his accordion, Mayor John Bevan from Wales told us this was his cue to sing. Thereafter, each mayor took turns singing a song representing their country. Everyone joined in
(when they could). The Venetian Fair was in full swing during the stay, and during the opening ceremonies, the St. Charles delegation was personally honored by the Lord Mayor. St. Charles Sister City Founder and President, Joe Daues, is grateful to be working with a city that offers such “beauty, culture, and most importantly, incredibly hospitable and friendly German friends.” He continues: “Someday our (exchange) students will be the people of our future. Long live our partnership.” Joe was also very moved “that Ludwigsburg placed so much emphasis on our 20th anniversary and invited an official delegation from each of their other sister cities. They paid us such an honor.” Mayor Sally Faith agreed that the German Sister Cities Program is a big success. “Upon being elected Mayor, I had not experienced the benefits of reaching out, as well as other countries reaching out to St. Charles. It is such a wonderful opportunity to learn, grow, and touch so many lives. I especially enjoy hearing the students’ responses and the opportunity to have them in my office and looking at my hometown the way I do every day. Visiting Ludwigsburg with my grandson was a wonderful opportunity for both of us. The visit was a lifelong bonding opportunity and exposure to ideas we had never thought of. Returning to Ludwigsburg to celebrate the 20th anniversary, made me realize that we are all part of a very large interesting world.”
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November 23, 2016 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
Boeing celebrates 100 years of military heritage, 50 year recognition of the Gemini Program
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On Nov. 9, Boeing employees gathered to pay special tribute to all who have served, including those veterans who have supported the company through its 100 years of honored service and support to the United States Military. Additionally, Boeing honored the history of Space Exploration in St. Louis with a plaque commemorating 50 years since the final Gemini mission and in memory of fallen NASA astronauts. Nov. 11 marked 50 years since the final Gemini mission (Gemini 12) lifted off from Florida. McDonnell Aircraft (now part of Boeing) manufactured the Gemini spacecraft in St. Louis from 1962 through 1966. Many veterans were part of that team; more than 220 of the current and former NASA astronauts come from military backgrounds, with every branch of service represented. Two such veteran astronauts, Elliot M. See Jr (US Navy Reserve Commander) and Charles A Bassett II (USAF major), were traveling to the McDonnell facility to see the spacecraft in Feb. of 1966 when
Submitted photo Boeing welcomed Lt. Gen. Tom Stafford (US Air Force, retired) to help celebrate the greater legacy of space exploration here in St Louis, with special thanks to the veterans who helped make the dream of spaceflight a reality.
their aircraft crashed onto McDonnell property in bad weather. Both were killed. The backup crew – Tom Stafford and Gene Cernan – arrived safety and later flew the successful space mission several months later. Boeing welcomed Lt. Gen. Stafford (US Air Force, retired) to help remember See and Bassett and celebrate the greater legacy of space exploration here in St Louis, with special thanks to the veterans who helped
make the dream of spaceflight a reality. Gen. Stafford’s other accomplishments include: four spaceflights (Gemini 6, Gemini 9, Apollo 10, Apollo-Soyuz Test Project) that included a trip around the Moon; leadership of the Air Force Research, Development and Acquisition office, including pioneering use of stealth technology; and numerous awards including the Congressional Space Medal of Honor and the Wright Brothers Memorial Trophy.
Citizens for Modern Transit teams up with Enterprise to introduce Zimride to the St. Louis region
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Citizens for Modern Transit (CMT) announced the launch of Zimride by Enterprise, a service of Enterprise Rent-A-Car, in the St. Louis area. The online ride-matching service easily connects drivers and passengers with similar commutes. CMT will be working in partnership with Enterprise to administer this free program, which can benefit existing public transit users by helping them connect with likeminded commuters to extend transit trips and close the gaps that may exist between transit stations and their point of origin or destination. “The St. Louis region has a very successful, integrated public transportation system that offers access to nearly 95 percent of local jobs and educational facilities within Metro’s service area,” commented Kim Cella, executive director of Citizens for Modern Transit. “However, this doesn’t mean that all users can be picked up at their doorstep and delivered within steps of their final destination. Gaps exist. Some transit users must drive to a MetroLink station, before taking the train directly to the office. Others
may only have to walk a block to get to a MetroLink station or MetroBus stop, but once they deboard there is still a bit of a distance before they reach their final destination. Ultimately, when used in tandem with transit, ridesharing can help extend transit trips.” As a sustainable alternative to driving individually, Zimride also helps reduce vehicle emissions, traffic congestion and fuel consumption while splitting transportation costs. It is the largest web-based ridesharing and carpooling network in North America. “In addition, Zimride enables individuals to get to shopping establishments, entertainment venues and other destinations that aren’t accessible by transit alone,” added Cella. “Zimride can be used to find a single ride, as well as to find recurring rides on the same day or every day of the week.” Those interested in joining the free Zimride platform must first visit cmt-stl.org/zimride to register to be part of CMT’s closed network. Users will then receive a verification email directing them to zimride.com/
cmt where they are able to log in, create a profile and begin searching for rides or riders. Once a match is identified, users can search Zimride reviews and connect through a Facebook interface, before coordinating logistics and putting plans in place to share rides in their personal vehicles. Those interested in splitting gas costs can even do so securely through the Zimride site. “At Enterprise, we offer our customers a total transportation solution by providing a range of sustainable options,” said Enterprise Vice President Ryan Johnson, who oversees Zimride as well as other sustainable commuter options including Enterprise Rideshare and newly acquired vRide. “With Zimride, we’re pleased to offer members of the St. Louis community – our hometown – an online ridematching service to supplement and extend the city’s existing public transportation system.” For full program details and registration information, visit cmt-stl.org/zimride.
www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • November 23, 2016
Around Town
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Crisis Nursery raises $120,000 at the 11th Annual Over the Top for Tots Crisis Nursery raised a record breaking $120,000 at the 11th Annual Over the Top for Tots event. Mistress of Ceremonies was KMOV’s Claire Kellett, the event benefited the Nursery’s Healing Hearts Program, which provides art and play therapy for children who need help mending their broken spirits. Over 550 people enjoyed boutique shopping, a live auction, raffles and a semi-formal program on Nov. 4 at The Ameristar Conference Center in St. Charles. The Crisis Nursery honored community advocates for their dedication to child abuse prevention, and supporting Crisis Nursery’s work throughout the year through in-kind and monetary donations. The 2016 Healing Hearts Award was presented to Michelle McElfresh – Shower of Lover, A Program of the St. Charles County Community & Children’s Resource Board, the 2016 Children’s Champion Award was presented to StreetScape Magazine, Tom Hannegan, and the 2016 Guardian Angel Award was presented to Jillian Anderson, Asst.
Prosecuting Attorney, St. Charles County. During the event, Coca-Cola and Shop ‘N Save generously donated $10,500 to the Crisis Nursery. These funds will help feed thousands of children in the community. “This event is so special as it is focused on helping so many children receive art and play therapy, and to get such a generous donation for Coca-Cola and Shop ‘N Save is a wonderful added blessing during the upcoming holiday season” stated DiAnne Mueller, CEO Saint Louis Crisis Nursery. Co-chairs for this event were Sue Bergen, Tara Blunt, Lisa Bulczak, Connie Cissell, Camilla Collins, Jodi Lang, Amanda Linski, Charlotte McClure, Christy Mundy, Angela Owen, Raegan Parrish, Fran Pieper, Penny Rogers, Terri Rosner, Nancy Rudy, Ruthie Schaper, Melissa Socha, Heidi Sowatsky, and Jackie Vick. Major sponsors were Shop ‘N Save, SSM Health, Aetna, Aetna Better Health Missouri, Coca-Cola and StreetScape Magazine.
Consumer research company finds O’Fallon to be one of the five safest large cities in Missouri A new study comparing 123 Missouri cities rated the city of O’Fallon, Missouri, as third safest of Missouri’s large cities. Consumer research company ValuePenguin determined the rating based on its assessment of Uniform Crime Statics compiled by the FBI for violent crime and property crime. ValuePenguin staff standardized the data to reflect violent and property crimes per 100,000 people. Violent crimes are defined as aggravated assault, robbery, rape and murder/manslaughter, and property crimes are burglary, larceny or theft, vehicle theft and arson. Each of the cities received a “crime score,” with violent crimes weighted at 80 percent of the score and property crimes at 20 percent, and the score was adjusted for population size. The site developed comparison charts for small, medium and large cities by population, and rated them for safety. O’Fallon was named third safest of all large cities (population greater than 20,000). The cities also were compared overall and O’Fallon rated as Missouri’s safest city with a population of over 50,000. Read the full report at www.valuepenguin.com/2016/safest-placesmissouri “Our city can be very proud of the men and women of the O’Fallon Police Department who make sure that ours is a safe community to live, work and play,” said Mayor Bill Hennessy. “I invite everyone to stop in and meet some of O’Fallon’s dedicated officers on Saturday, Dec. 3, from 10 a.m. – noon at the department’s “Cocoa with a Cop.” The event will be hosted by the McDonald’s restaurant at 101 McDonald Lane, which is just south of I-70.”
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Submitted photo (From left) Shop ‘n Save Linda Markus with Coca Cola’s Angela Owens and the Coca Cola Polar Bear.
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November 23, 2016 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
Moore On Life
By Cindy Moore
Shop or drop Aren’t we glad? The election is over and we can all settle down, take a breath, put our feet up and turn on the TV and finally watch something to put us in a less agitated and more relaxed state. That was my mood soon after the voting was wrapped up, spanked severely and put to bed. What fighting; what sass; what division, vitriol, venom and viciousness we experienced! So to ease my rattled nerves, I flipped the channel to find something much less stressful than what the country had experienced in the previous weeks. “My Cat from Hell” seemed to be just the ticket. But no sooner had I clicked on the television then I beheld such scenes that can only be described as apocalyptical! There was violence in the streets, riots breaking out, fighting for no apparent reason, people acting out irrationally, pushing and shoving. No, these tantrum-frenzied mobs were not election-related. They were created by something that brings out far worse—those ding-danged department store marketers! They were at it again pushing wild-eyed shoppers out earlier into the fray, even before Thanksgiving. Instead of Black Friday, they had come up with a not-quite-so-Black Friday, but sort of a Charcoal-Silvery Friday and on into the fifty different shades of Gray Fridays and Mondays and Tuesdays to come! Now before my bird has even been plucked and roasted; while Mr. Turkey is still naively sitting in
his pen making plans to show off his plump juicy breast and fat meaty drumsticks to the lady hens next door, Christmas shopping has been moved up yet again to get a jump on those holiday dollars. I guess we can depend on seeing from now until that solemn holiday of peace and goodwill to all men: tackling, punching, fist fighting, kicking and biting, and that’s just two women in combat over the last Flying Ninja Barbie! And not to mention the battles that will erupt over parking spaces. They alone breed the speeders; the screeching brakes; the maimed pedestrians and drivers spouting words that are so salty they would make a pretzel blush. With approximately 1,447 days until the next election, let’s hope for harmony…unless of course the Flying Ninja Barbies go on sale. Cindy Moore is the mother of three superlative kids, servant of two self-indulgent felines and wife to one nifty husband. Her ficticious occupation? Archeological Humorist: someone who unearths absurdity and hilarity in strange and unusual places including public restrooms, the lint filter, and church meetings. Most recently, she excavated a find in her neighbor’s bird feeder.
The opinions expressed in this column are Cindy Moore’s alone and do not reflect the opinion of the owners or staff of Community News.
O’Fallon mourns the passing of former mayor Ed Griesenauer Former O’Fallon Mayor Edward J. Griesenauer passed away on Nov. 14. A lifelong resident of O’Fallon, Mr. Griesenauer served on the O’Fallon Board of Alderman for 17 years, then as the city’s mayor for 10 years, from 1986 to 1995. Among his accomplishments as mayor, he organized the West 70 Commerce Center, which was the city’s first industrial park, oversaw the first phase of the widening of Highway K from two lanes to four, and signed the contract for the construction of the Bryan Road interchange on I-70. “With the passing of former mayor Ed Griesenauer yesterday, the city of O’Fallon lost one of its formative leaders,” said Mayor Hennessy. “Our
thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time. Giving nearly 30 years of his life to public service, he was instrumental in setting a firm foundation for the outstanding quality of life we enjoy in our city today. His legacy shows in his steadfast support for expanding our park system, in initiating a modern business community, and in securing access to I-70 for what is now the western half of O’Fallon. His contributions helped O’Fallon make the crucial transition from a small rural community to what is now the seventhlargest city in the state and one of the country’s best places to live.”
Vantage Credit Union staff and members are collecting items for the less fortunate
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Vantage Credit Union staff and members will be collecting items for the less fortunate during its annual Holiday Giving program. For the program, which runs until Dec. 15, Vantage collects new gifts for a Christmas party at Busch Stadium hosted by Cardinals Care, the charitable organization of the St. Louis Cardinals. Vantage is the sole provider of gifts for this annual party, which provides holiday cheer to 300 children in need. Vantage Credit Union also participates in Warners’ Warm-Up the first two weeks in November.
Started in the bi-state area in 2001, Warners’ Warm-Up collects nearly 15,000 coats each year for those in need that are then distributed through Operation Food Search across the St. Louis region. All Vantage branch locations serve as drop off points for new and gently-used winter coats and new children’s gifts. For those with no time to shop or no coats to donate, the credit union is also taking cash donations to purchase gifts and food for local charities. All donations benefit charities in each individual branch community.
www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • November 23, 2016
Around Town
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Santa’s modern-day helpers From running his workshop to delivering toys around the world, the holiday season is a busy time for Santa. To keep himself going, Saint Nick relies on some essential gadgets to stay connected, organized and entertained throughout the holidays.
keep the festivities going strong late into the night. Using the UE Roll app, you can take advantage of additional features to tune it, alarm it, personalize it and double up the sound by pairing with another UE speaker. Health trackers: After all the countless cookies and glasses of milk, Santa takes charge of his health with the Samsung Gear S2 smartwatch. The built-in S Health app empowers your active lifestyle and continuously challenges you to practice healthy habits.
Drones: To keep an eye on who’s been naughty or nice, Santa depends on his Parrot Mini-Drone Rolling Spider. The Spider flies smoothly in all directions with its sophisticated stabilizing autopilot system, and a free app with touch controls makes it easy to pilot. Thanks to the “swipe” control feature, you can execute rapid, agile aerobatics, including 90 degree and 180 degree turns, as well as forward, backward and sideways flips. An embedded vertical mini-camera lets you take snapshots from the unique vantage point. Mobile devices: Santa’s Apple iPhone 7 and Samsung Galaxy S7 help him stay connected, organized and entertained. With the iPhone’s new and advanced camera system, you’ll be able to capture memories all season long, and immersive stereo speakers will have you rockin’ around the Christmas tree – all with the
strongest battery life ever in an iPhone. If admiring holiday lights is a tradition you hold dear, you’ll appreciate the Galaxy S7’s exceptional low-light image capture, and the smartphone’s expandable memory makes it easy to grab all the photos and videos you can snap.
Wireless Bluetooth: Santa relies on the Plantronics Voyager Legend Bluetooth Headset to communicate with his elves while he navigates the world on his sleigh. The device intuitively directs calls to phone or headset, pauses music Photos courtesy of Getty Images for incoming calls and allows you to automatically answer by simply placing the Music: What’s a sleigh ride without headset on your ear. Dual-microphone Christmas music? Santa jingles all the noise-cancelling technology retains the way with the UE Roll 2 Bluetooth Speak- natural sound of your voice while three er. The speaker pumps out crisp sound layers of WindSmart technology help with deep bass in every direction to block intrusive noises. Keep up with spread holiday cheer all around. A re- loved ones in comfort this holiday season chargeable lithium-ion battery allows for with a pivoting mic boom that lets you up to nine hours of playtime, so you can wear the headset on either ear.
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School
November 23, 2016 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
Francis Howell students recognized as National Merit Semi-Finalists Francis Howell School District (FHSD) is proud to announce that 19 FHSD students have been recognized for their academic achievement by being named National Merit Commended Scholars and National Merit Semi-Finalists by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC). These high-achieving students now have the opportunity to move on in the competition for a chance to receive one of 7,500 scholarships totaling more than $33 million, which will be offered to the winners next spring. At Francis Howell North High School (FHN), Blake Coonrod and James Dohrman were both named semifinalists, and Jacob Lintner was named a commended scholar. From Francis Howell Central High School (FHC), Taylor Fawcett, Jack Hiegel and Rachel Stepanek were also selected as semi-finalists. Kayleigh Ammond, Sophie Julien and Abigail Nardi achieved National Merit commended status. Francis Howell High School (FHHS) had nine students recognized by NMSC. Anweshan Das was named a National Merit semi-finalist, and Leah Amos, Joe Aulbach, Marie Dishian, Caroline Dobert, Eric Hanson, Mikayla Hardy, Ajay Makkena, and Christen Voges were all named commended scholars. Almost 1.6 million juniors across the nation entered the 2017 National Merit Scholarship program by taking the 2015 Preliminary SAT/ National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/ NMSQT), according to a NMSC press release. The students who reached the level of semi-finalist represent less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors and include the highest-ranking entrants in each state. The final winners will be selected from this group based on their skills, accomplishments and potential success in rigorous college studies, according to NMSC.
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Wentzville Middle School receives grant for girls robotics team Wentzville Middle School (WMS) has received a $2,500 grant from the EDC Business and Community Partners Education Committee for a new, all-girls robotics team. WMS Science and Project Lead the Way Teacher Ed Picone applied for the grant to encourage female students to explore tech fields. He says he was inspired after attending a training where three female engineers talked about how hands-on learning when they were younger led each of them into the field of engineering. “We have a primarily male robotics team at WMS now. The female students will at times join the team, but at this age they find it more appealing to work with an all-female group. Hands-on learning is the best way for all students to be exposed to options with regard to educational and career choices.” The grant is designed to encourage middle school students in St. Charles County to become involved in FIRST Tech Challenge Robotics competitions. According to the EDC Business and Community Partners website, the positive impact on FIRST Tech Challenge participants is well
Photo courtesy Wentzville School District Wentzville Middle School has received a $2,500 grant from the EDC Business and Community Partners Education Committee for a new, all-girls robotics team.
documented. Over 84 percent have more interest in taking a challenging math or science course and 86 percent are more interested in attending college. “We want to encourage students to explore the exciting opportunities of science, technology, engineering and math activities with the hope of their pursuing these type of studies in their high school and college years,” said Randy Schilling, chairman of the Education Committee of the EDC Business & Community Partners. “We know that the younger a student becomes
engaged in STEM-related activities, the more likely they are to pursue this type of career. These are the careers of the future.” The EDC Business and Community Partners, formally Partners for Progress of Greater St. Charles, is a civic group founded in 2001 to influence community progress and economic growth in the St. Charles County region. It is part of the EDC business and community strategic collaborative.
Wentzville Schools honor veterans
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Schools in the Wentzville School District held Veterans Day celebrations to salute the brave men and women who are currently serving or who have served in the U.S. armed forces. Boone Trail, Crossroads, Discovery Ridge, Duello, Green Tree, Heritage, Lakeview, Prairie View, Peine Ridge Elementary, as well as Wentzville Middle, Holt, Liberty and Timberland High all invited veterans to their special activities scheduled in honor of the holiday. Veterans were treated to meals, student performances, slide shows honoring past and present members of the military, and special guest speakers. At Holt High School, senior AJ Fisher read an essay entitled, “The Hero Right Down the Hallway” which was written by sophomore Alyssa Jones about teacher and coach Ethan Place, recipient of a Silver Star for his actions during combat in Fallujah. At Liberty High School, Lead Custodian Luther Morris Jr. was the guest speaker and he shared his experience as a marine medic and first responder to the Pentagon on 9-11. He urged students to show respect for those who have served to protect their freedom and to
Photo courtesy Wentzville School District Schools in the Wentzville School District held Veterans Day celebrations to salute the brave men and women who are currently serving or who have served in the U.S. armed forces.
also be respectful of those who may not always agree with your point of view. “That freedom to disagree is what veterans fought for and it’s what makes America special,” he said. At Timberland, veterans were visibly emotional as they entered the gymnasium to a standing ovation by 1,600 teenage students. Among the vets present at that assembly were five World War II veterans. Junior Alex Thomason delivered an inspiring speech, asking students to reach out and thank a veteran for their service. “The next time you walk or
drive by an American flag, I want you to think about the sacrifice that was made trying to get that flag there, because that flag does not fly because the wind is blowing it, it flies with the very last breath of every person who died protecting it.” In addition to the celebrations, schools held service projects that included making cards for current service members deployed overseas and collecting items for care packages. Schools also organized fundraisers for organizations that serve veterans like the Wounded Warrior Project, and Veterans of Foreign Wars.
www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • November 23, 2016
Local unemployment falling again amidst wage pressures and hiring wave After a temporary uptick during the summer, unemployment rates are falling again in St. Charles County, dropping to 3.7 percent in September, down from 4.1 percent in August. At the same time, employers of all sizes around the area are in the midst of a hiring wave. “A recent report from the Federal Reserve said the full employment situation in metro St. Louis is leading to wage pressure among businesses as they compete for new employees,” said St. Charles County Executive Steve Ehlmann. “Since the beginning of this year, we have been saying there are more jobs than qualified job seekers in St. Charles County. At the same time, our community is experiencing a hiring wave as local companies look for entry-level and mid-level workers for administrative, technical and service positions.” The labor force for St. Charles County grew slightly in September to 222,032, up 1,022 from the previous month. The community’s annual average labor force for 2015 was 217,392. “Currently, we are working with some of our largest employers on recruiting events and job
postings as they try to fill as many as 1,000 fulltime positions now available around St. Charles County,” said Scott J. Drachnik, Director of the County’s Department of Workforce and Business Development. He said some of the businesses eagerly hiring new employees or back-filling open positions include Nike IHM, True Manufacturing, Reckitt-Benckiser (RB Manufacturing), Wainwright Industries, Serco and Ameristar Casino St. Charles. “Our local population and labor force continue to increase at impressive rates, but so are the job orders,” Drachnik said. “It’s one of the reasons local economic development professionals and civic groups are turning their attention to the need to recruit new residents to the region because of the quality of life and the ample career opportunities in St. Charles County and metro St. Louis.” Anyone looking for a new full-time job is encouraged to visit the Missouri Job Center of St. Charles County at 212 Turner Boulevard in St. Peters to explore opportunities available in the community.
Submitted photo
Manager Karen Shine celebrated the grand opening of Cremation Society of Missouri with a ribbon cutting on Nov. 10. Joining Karen and her staff were board members and ambassadors of the Greater St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce. Cremation Society of Missouri is located at 2338 Highway 94 South Outer Road in St. Charles. They provide affordable cremation and burial services. For more information on how they can help you, please call 636-946-9896 or visit their website at www.missouricremate.com
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Cremation Society of Missouri celebrates grand opening with ribbon cutting
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Sports
November 23, 2016 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
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Home & Garden Section in Classifieds page 15
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Home Equity Loans & Lines of Credit: Subject to credit approval. Offer available on applications submitted by 1/15/17 with a minimum loan amount of $10,000 or more. Loan-to-Value (LTV) rules apply. Contact bank for details. Property insurance required. Home Equity Lines of Credit only: Introductory rate of 2.99% Annual Percentage Rate (APR) will be fixed for 12 months. The current rate that would have applied is 4.00% APR. The APR, after the introductory period may vary and will not exceed 20% APR. APR is based upon the rate published in The Wall Street Journal Money Rate table. Prime was 3.50% as of 11/1/16. Special Introductory Rate is only available in Missouri and Illinois.
December 3rd, 6-9 pm
Hwy 40 Brews 909 Main Plaza Dr., Wentzville, MO 633385 BrrrBASH Toy Drop Locations 63301
63304
La Chata Rack House West Bisco Music
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West County Day School
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Ultimate Fitness for Women Dynamic Life Chiropractic O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce Chiropractic Wellness Center The Wharf Pharmacy
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St. Peters City Hall St. Peters Law Enforcement Center KSLQ Cardinal Dental
Several Lindenwood wrestlers make the list at recent meet The Lindenwood wrestling team placed seven wrestlers, including a champion, in the sixth annual Joe Parisi Open sponsored by MSW Marketing on Saturday. Ronnie Gentile, who made his Lion career debut in this event, steamrolled through the 149-pound bracket, winning the title. The Lions will return to action on Dec. 1 in Hays, Kansas to take on MIAA-rival, Fort Hays State. For more information, go to www.LindenwoodLions.com ~~~ Thanks to Andrew P. Morris of Lindenwood Sports Information for the information
Professional soccer team Ambush drop home opener The team fought hard after being down 5-1 but was only able to put two more goals in the back of the net dropping the contest to the visiting Tacoma Stars Saturday night at the Family Arena. The Ambush started their scoring when their goalkeeper Casey Clark lobbed a long pass to Cody Costakis, who put the ball in the upper ninety to tie the contest. A bit of history saw the lights go out in the Family Arena for over twenty minutes, causing a stoppage in play. With the last period ticking away, the team picked up their second goal when Daniel Berko scored his first goal of the season at 12:55. With Kentaro Takada in the game as the sixth attacker, Richard Schmermund buried a restart goal at 13:36 to make the score 5-3. It was too little, too late for the Ambush as the clock ran out and Tacoma secured the victory. Playing in his first professional game, Casey
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Main Street Salon Missouri Motors Midtowne Market Streetscape Magazine Cool Touch Graphics Marie Angelique Bra & Lingerie
Wednesday Thanksgiving eve Guns ‘N Hoses Tonight the BackStoppers will raise money to support our fallen first responders. It will be held Nov. 23 at Scottrade Center. Go to www.STLGunsnHoses.com for all the details. ~~~Start the Holiday Season on a giving note
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6 North Cafe Irish Eyes Photography The Color Room Wentzville City Hall Dunns Florist Sylvan Learning Uncorked Wine Garden Fridley Chiropractic Poage Chevrolet Sunny Street Cafe Home Town Cleaners Corporate Parkway Library Parkway Family Dentistry Ultimate Art Form Hwy 40 Brews American Legion Post 323
Kelly Hill Shelter Insurance
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Little Black Book: Connect. Promote. Share. Give. Become.
Clark made 18 saves on 23 attempts for the Ambush. The Ambush are back in action this Saturday, Nov. 26, when they host the Chicago Mustangs at the Family Arena at 7:05 p.m. For more information go to www.STLAmbush. com ~~~Many games to go
Volleyball season comes to an end at UMSL The University of Missouri-St. Louis women’s volleyball club concluded its season on Friday evening with a loss to McKendree in quarterfinal round action of the GLVC Tournament. The Lady Tritons end their season with an 1812 overall record, the program’s most wins since 2011. Senior Gaylnn Jones led UMSL with nine kills and seven digs, while freshman Selena Nolte recorded eight kills, five of which came in the first set. Junior Madyson Abeyta tallied 20 assists and added two service aces, both of which came in the third set as UMSL jumped out to an early 6-1 lead. Junior Danielle Waedekin recorded nine digs, bringing her season total to 581, which ranks second on the program’s single season charts. The match marked the final contest of the careers of Jones and fellow seniors Lexi Rogers and Samantha Lewis. Rogers graduates ranking eighth all-time in career hitting percentage (.268). ~~~That’s a wrap
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, 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 • November 23, 2016
A twist on a timeless holiday dish
A
s millions of families across the country prepare to share holiday meals together, sometimes all it takes to perfect those revered moments is a twist on a timeless classic. While it may be true that no holiday dinner is complete without the green bean casserole – a classic festive favorite – your guests could fall in love with a new take on tradition. This time around, try shaking things up with bacon and
Learn & Play
11
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.
cheddar, or add some Italian flair with a differently seasoned casserole. With Bacon and Cheddar Green Bean Casserole or Green Bean Casserole Italiano, all you have to do is make a couple of simple tweaks to add that new flavor to the holiday menu. For more holiday cooking inspiration and recipes, visit DelMonte.com.
Bacon and Cheddar Green Bean Casserole Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 30 minutes
| Servings: 12
Ingredients:
2 cans (10 1/2 ounces each) condensed cream of mushroom soup 1 cup milk 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided 6 slices bacon, cooked and chopped (about 6 tablespoons), divided 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper 4 cans (14.5 ounces each) green beans, drained 2 2/3 cups crispy fried onions, divided Directions: Heat oven to 350 F. In 3-quart baking dish, stir soup, milk, 1/4 cup cheese, 5 tablespoons bacon, black pepper, green beans and 1 1/3 cups onions. See solution on page 13
Bake 25 minutes, or until bean mixture is hot and bubbling; stir. Sprinkle with remaining cheese, onions and bacon. Bake 5 minutes, or until onions are golden brown.
Green Bean Casserole Italiano Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 30 minutes | Servings: 12
Ingredients:
2 cans (10 1/2 ounces each) condensed cream of mushroom soup 1 cup milk 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided 1/2 cup chopped, well-drained sundried tomatoes in olive oil, divided
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, crushed 4 cans (14.5 ounces each) green beans, drained 2 2/3 cups crispy fried onions, divided
Directions: Heat oven to 350 F. In 3-quart baking dish, stir soup, milk, 1/4 cup cheese, 6 tablespoons tomatoes, black pepper, Italian seasoning, green beans and 1 1/3 cups onions. Bake 25 minutes, or until bean mixture is hot and bubbling; stir. Sprinkle with remaining cheese, onions and tomatoes. Bake 5 minutes, or until onions are golden brown.
“Community News hits all areas for all ages.” -Reader ’s comment, 2016
Why do you read the Community News? Pick up your copy at a newsstand today or check us out online, www.mycnews.com
Crossword Puzzle – Theme: Tourists’ Europe ACROSS 1. French abbots 6. Bag to Coco Chanel 9. Pulpit predecessor 13. Butterfly, pre-metamorphosis 14. Plays for pay 15. It died February 3, 1959 16. Wrinkles easily 17. Slippery when cold 18. Undo 19. *Home to Piccadilly Circus 21. *Home to Charles Bridge and Kafka’s grave 23. Scot’s woolen cap 24. Chinese monetary unit 25. Choose 28. Psychedelic lamp 30. Unhealthy vapors 34. Be sick 36. *Mister from Munich 38. Bar, legally 40. Like word of mouth 41. Software extension 43. Confederate soldier’s hat 44. Comforter stuffing 46. Magazine contents 47. Perceives with an eye 48. Masculine and feminine 50. Same as eon 52. Swedish shag rug 53. Related 55. Pester 57. *Where to see The Book of Kells 60. *Home to Tiergarten 63. Yankee’s relationship to Red Sox 64. Goose egg 66. Pneumonic lung rattling, pl. 68. Each and all 69. E in BCE 70. Bay window 71. Madam, to a cowboy 72. Yankee’s foe 73. *Eventual tourist feeling? DOWN 1. 100% 2. Get-out-of-jail money 3. *Home to Freedom Square 4. *Tour de France, e.g. 5. Warm weather shoe 6. “Wheel of Fortune” choice 7. *____ De Triomphe
8. a.k.a. nutria 9. *Salz____ or St. Peters____ 10. Biblical twin 11. ____ en scene 12. Expert 15. Unkind person 20. Nebraska’s largest city 22. Truck brand 24. Railyard worker 25. Symphony member 26. *Home to Notre Dame 27. Port city business 29. Sacred Hindu writings 31. Requests 32. Be at the helm 33. Languishing 35. Show the guns? 37. *Home to Trevi Fountain
39. *Home to the Leaning Tower 42. Not a soul 45. In fact 49. *Sporty tourists do it in the Alps 51. *Like a Norwegian fjord 54. Private 56. Unfriendly glance 57. Prima donna 58. Iris holder 59. Yeasty foam 60. Spill the beans 61. Pelvic parts 62. ____-do-well 63. “Losing My Religion” band 65. Boiling blood 67. Like a fox See answers on page 13
November 23, 2016 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
Send your event to editor@mycnews.com and we'll print it! EVENTS
Nov 25: O’Fallon Celebration of Lights
Get into the heart of the holidays with a tour of the dazzling, nostalgic and inspiring Celebration of Lights display in Fort Zumwalt Park at 1000 Jessup Drive in O’Fallon. The display is open from Nov. 25 through Dec. 30 (closed Dec. 25), open nightly at 6 p.m. Choose your favorite way to see the sights: cruise through the park with friends or family in your own vehicle or bundle up for a city train ride, a tractor-pulled sleigh-hayride or a ride in a horse-drawn carriage or wagon. No reservations are needed to drive through the lights display, but the specialty rides must be booked at least two weeks in advance. To get the date you want, book soon. Visit www. ofallon.mo.us/celebration-of-lights for hours and costs of the drive-through (which is not available on Mondays or Dec. 13), booking information for specialty rides, etc.
Nov. 27: Intergenerational Advent celebration
An intergenerational Advent celebration takes place at St. John UCC at 405 S Fifth St. in Saint Charles from11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. After enjoying a light lunch, adults and children will travel between stations: storytelling, Christmas ornament making, Christmas cookie decorating, and making a “Good Deeds” Family Calendar. Everyone will go home with something special to kick-off the Advent season. The event will conclude with old-fashioned Christmas carol singing. For more information contact 636-946-0961 or visit www.stjohnucc. org.
Dec. 2: Benefit fundraiser
Turning Point Domestic & Sexual Violence Emergency Shelter & Services will host a benefit evening of entertainment. The 90-minute show is at St. Peters Cultural Arts Center in St. Peters. The event features Missouriborn jazz pianist Pat Coil and his trio. He’ll be joined by Steve Houghton on drums and Bob Bowman on bass, both of Kansas City. St. Louis’s Big Muddy Dance Company will perform at the top of the evening. Jim Henry is a special guest vocalist, and big band director Jim Widner will emcee the
program. Tickets are $25 general admission and $50 for premium seating and an invitation to a champagne and dessert after party with the performers. Purchase tickets at merrylittleevening.bpt.me. Turning Point fundraises for approximately 18 percent of the annual budget. All proceeds from this event go directly to support the mission to protect and stabilize the lives of vulnerable women and children.
Dec. 2, 4 and 11: Choir performances
Choral Arts Singers will present a concert titled “The Glory – The Wonder” that includes Christmas songs such as “Angels from the Realms of Glory,” “I Wonder as I Wander” and “Jazz Gloria” on Dec. 2 at 7:30 p.m. at Zion Church of Christ at 725 Main St. in Troy; Dec. 4 at 4:30 p.m. at Assumption Chapel at 403 N. Main in O’Fallon; and Dec. 11 at 4 p.m. at Grace Community Chapel at 7661 Mexico Rd. in St. Peters. The concerts are free, donations are appreciated. Choral Arts Singers is a nonprofit organization that provides high quality music to the residents of Lincoln, St. Charles and Warren Counties and is incorporated as Concert Arts Association. For more information visit www.concertarts.org.
Dec. 3: Free electronics and appliance recycling event
A free electronics and appliance recycling event takes place from 8 a.m. – noon in the west parking lot at CarShield Field (formerly T.R. Hughes Ballpark) at 900 T.R. Hughes Boulevard in O’Fallon. The drop-off is free and available to all including schools, churches and businesses. Bring almost any item that has an electrical cord or takes a battery, such as household appliances, water heaters, furnaces, air conditioners, microwaves, kitchen appliances, computers, computer monitors (including CRTs), printers, keyboards, laptops, hard drives, scanners, DVDs, cell phones, pagers, fax machines, answering machines, radios, stereos, speakers, VCRs, power tools, lawn and garden equipment (all yard equipment must have gas and oil removed). Please do not bring: smoke detectors, glass lamps, light bulbs, VHS tapes or alkaline batteries. LED/ LCD TVs can be dropped off, free; however, a fee will be charged for each cathode ray tube (CRT) television set.
Dec. 3: Santa party
Santa Claus is scheduled to visit with children across the region during an exclusive Santa party from 9:30-11:30 a.m. at the Youth Activity Park located at 7801 Highway N in Dardenne Prairie. Children of all ages are invited to join Santa for holiday fun inside the park complex. Guests can bring their own camera to get their photo with Santa, make a festive ornament, decorate a yummy treat, drink hot chocolate and play festive games at the event. Space is limited for this holiday event that cost $10 per child. To make a reservation, visit the St. Charles County Parks and Recreation Department online at www.stccparks.org or call 636949-7535.
Dec. 3: Parents’ night out
Dardenne Baptist Church, located at 2345 Oak Drive in O’Fallon will host a parents’ night out. Everyone could use time to shop for Christmas or to just go out for a few hours and have a relaxing evening knowing that you children are being taken care of. Everything is free. Just drop you children off at 5 p.m. and register them and meet the many volunteers that will be there to serve your children. Dinner will be served at 6:15 p.m. consisting of Chick-fil-A and pizza. Before and after that time your children will play games, sing songs, do crafts, watch a video, hear a Bible story and have a rehearsal in the sanctuary. Parents can pick up children at 9 p.m. Suggested age of children is three to 12 years old. Please call 636-6252015 if you have any questions.
Dec. 4: Lessons and carols service Zion Lutheran Church and School at 3866 S. Old Highway 94 in St. Charles, invite the public to the 21st Annual Service of Lessons and Carols at 7 p.m. Celebrate the holiday season with scripture and song as performed by over 125 of Zion’s own children and adult choirs, handbell ensembles and instrumentalists. Pre-service music begins at 6:45 p.m. The Service of Lessons and Carols is a format of Christian worship that celebrates the birth of Jesus. For more information and directions, log on to www.zionharvester. org or contact Mark Thoelke, Minister of Music at 636-441-7425.
Dec. 4: Choir performance
The Chancel Choir, Children’s Choirs, and Instrumentalists of Dardenne Presbyterian Church will present Pepper Choplin’s “I Hear the Prophet Callin’ – The Christmas Story from Prophecy to Fulfillment” at 4:30 p.m. in the Sanctuary of Dardenne Presbyterian Church, located at 7400 South Outer
364 in Dardenne Prairie. A dinner will be served after the Cantata for a minimal fee to all those with a reservation. Visit the church office to make your reservations by Nov. 18.
Dec. 4: Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day ceremony
A Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day ceremony will take place at 1 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial Walk at 800 Veterans Memorial Parkway in O’Fallon. For more information visit www.ofallon.mo.us/veterans-memorial-walk.
Dec. 4: Christmas House tour
The residents of New Town at St. Charles invite you to tour their homes at the seventh annual New Town at St. Charles Residents’ Christmas House Tour from 1 – 5 p.m. The tour begins at the Town Hall at 3300 Rue Royale where you will have an opportunity to register for a door prize as well as obtain a map directing you to the houses on tour. Tickets, cash only, are $10 and may be purchased at Marsala’s Market in New Town beginning Nov. 14, or at the Town Hall on the day of the tour. Proceeds benefit a local food bank.
Dec. 6: Bone density screening
Bone density screening at Deer Run Library from 4 – 6 p.m.
Dec. 9: Holiday concert
Come to the St. Peters Cultural Arts Centre Performing Arts Theatre located at One St. Peters Centre Blvd. in St. Peters at 7 p.m. for a holiday celebration featuring the cabaret-style music of Tim Schall. Carol Schmidt will direct music. Tickets are available by calling 1-800-838-3006 or online at www.brownpapertickets.com. The cost is $12.99 each (plus service fee of 3.5 percent). If any tickets remain, tickets will be available at the door at a cost of $18 each.
Fourth Annual Christmas Cookie Sale - Fundraiser for Women’s Missions takes place from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Grace Presbyterian Church at 6308 Highway N in St. Charles. Cookies are $8 per pound and can be pre-ordered and/or delivered. For more information visit gracepca.net.
Dec. 10: Vietnam Veterans memorial ceremony
A special ceremony to honor and remember local Vietnam Veterans will be held in Wentzville on at 1 p.m. The ceremony will feature guest speaker and Missouri Vietnam Veteran George D. Newell. The hour-long event will be held at the nation’s first Vietnam Veterans Memorial, which is located in Wentzville at 209 W. Pearce Blvd. The event is sponsored by the city of Wentzville, VFW Post 5327, American Legion Post 323 and the Wentzville McDonalds.
Dec. 11: Christmas musical
Kidz Praize will perform a special Christmas musical entitled, “ The Present is the Future” at Wentzville Christian Church, at 1507 Highway Z, at 6 p.m. The presentation is free and the public is invited to attend. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. For questions or more information, call 636-327-6622 or go to wentzvillecc.org.
Dec. 11: Orchestra concert
Dec. 11: Christmas Cantata
Peace Lutheran Church in Winghaven invites your whole family to their free Breakfast with Santa from 9 - 11:30 a.m. at 9320 Phoenix Village Pkwy. in O’Fallon. Each child will receive a complimentary picture of themselves with Santa and a goody bag. Additional activities include face painting, story time, crafts and singing. Please RSVP by Dec. 4 to 636-561-8282 or kristi@ peacewinghaven.org.
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Dec. 10: Christmas cookie sale
Dec. 10: Breakfast with Santa:
Wholesale Batteries is open to the public and offers great pricing and selection for all of your battery needs!
O’Fallon
Santa will be visiting West Community Credit Union’s O’Fallon location from 9 a.m. to noon. Bring your children by for a free picture with Santa and enjoy snacks, crafts, and more.
A Day of Play community event takes place from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the O’Fallon YMCA.
Dec. 10: A Day of Play
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Dec. 10: Pictures with Santa
St. Charles County Youth Orchestra Winter Concert with special guest vocalist Angel Townsend will take place at 6:30 p.m. at the J. Scheidegger Center for the Arts main stage. Tickets are $5 for adults, $2 for children ages six18 and five-years-and-under are free. For more information, email sccyo@ sccyo.org, call 636-916-0515 or visit www.sccyo.org.
Cool Springs
What’s Happening
TR Hughes
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E Terra Ln
308 South Cool Springs Rd O’Fallon, MO 63366 636 978 5455 www.wholesalebatteries.net
Christmas Cantata – Sing We Now of Christmas takes place at St. John UCC at 405 S Fifth St.in St. Charles at 3 p.m. in the church sanctuary. St. John Concert Series will present Howard Helvey’s Sing We Now of Christmas. Cantata performed by St. John Chancel Choir, readers, and orchestra. Tasting party to follow. For more information contact 636-946-0961 or visit www.stjohnucc.org.
www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • November 23, 2016 Dec. 11-15: Parish mission
Sacred Heart Parish, located at 100 Thompson Dr. in Troy, is hosting a renewal program entitled “Face of the Father’s Mercy” beginning Dec. 11 at 6 p.m. It is being conducted by Fr. George Knab, a Missionary Oblate of Mary Immaculate from Belleville, Illinois, the site of the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows. The mission continues each evening at 7 p.m., ending Dec. 15 with a Celebration of Mass. For more information call the parish office at 636-528-8219.
Dec. 12-13: The Old-Fashioned Holiday Stroll
The Old-Fashioned Holiday Stroll will take place Dec. 12 – 13 from 6 –9 p.m. at Fort Zumwalt Park at 1000 Jessup Drive in O’Fallon. See the sights, hear the music and rediscover the magic of the holidays with your family on two special walk-through nights at the Celebration of Lights. Sparkling lights, unique holiday scenes and fireworks over the lake (at 7:25 p.m.) will add wonder and excitement to the night, and you can stop along the way to visit with Santa and shop for handmade gifts, hot cocoa and treats. Cost is $3 for ages three and older and parking is free. No reservations are needed, but you can avoid the line at the gate by pre-purchasing admission wristbands, which will be available Nov. 14 through Dec. 9 at the Parks and Recreation Administration Office at 400 Civic Park Drive, Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Dec. 13: Holiday concert
Start a great tradition by joining the St. Charles Municipal Band for our fifth annual “Holiday Concert at Scheidegger” at The Lindenwood Theater of the J. Scheidegger Center for the Arts, at 2300 West Clay St. in St. Charles, readily accessible from I-70. There is free parking and easy handicapped access. St. Nicholas will make a special appearance at this free family friendly event. See www.stcharlesband.com and Facebook for more information, or call 636-949-2590 or 314-878-5296. Dec. 22: Healing Christmas service Blue Christmas: A Service of Light Amidst the Darkness takes place at St. John UCC at 405 S Fifth St.in St. Charles at 7 p.m. in the church sanctuary. Not everyone is joyful and cheery for the holiday season. This service will be reflective, accepting where we really are and surrounding each other with healing and hope. For more information contact 636-946-0961 or visit www.stjohnucc.org.
Dec. 17: Food drive
Cornucopia of Care Food Drive takes place now through Dec. 17. Donations of nonperishable food and personal care items will help area food pantries support local families in need this holiday season. Drop-off sites include O’Fallon City Hall at 100 N. Main and Renaud Spirit Center at 2650 Tri Sports Circle in O’Fallon. Additional locations can be found at www.ofallon. mo.us/volunteer.
Dec. 30: O’Fallon Celebration of Lights
Get into the heart of the holidays with a tour of the dazzling, nostalgic and inspiring Celebration of Lights display in Fort Zumwalt Park at 1000 Jessup Drive in O’Fallon. The display is open from Nov. 25 through Dec. 30 (closed Dec. 25), open nightly at 6 p.m. SUDOKU answers from page 11
Choose your favorite way to see the sights: cruise through the park with friends or family in your own vehicle or bundle up for a city train ride, a tractor-pulled sleigh-hayride or a ride in a horse-drawn carriage or wagon. No reservations are needed to drive through the lights display, but the specialty rides must be booked at least two weeks in advance. To get the date you want, book soon. Visit www.ofallon. mo.us/celebration-of-lights for hours and costs of the drive-through (which is not available on Mondays or Dec. 13), booking information for specialty rides, etc.
Dec. 31: Mouse races and dance
The St. Francis of Assisi/Immaculate Conception Parishes are sponsoring The Great Mouse Race/Dance at the St. Francis Memorial Hall in Portage Des Sioux. The doors open at 6 p.m., the Mouse Races start at 7 p.m. and the dance starts at 10:30 p.m. Music will be provided by Waarp-D. Beer and setups are included. Cost is $25 per person, must be 21 to attend. For tickets call Gail Dreyer at 314-623-3299, the Parish House at 636-899-0907 or any of the Parish Council Members.
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.
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.
1st Monday: Gardeners of St. Charles County Monthly Meeting 6:30pm. Location varies. 314.304.7480.
1st Monday: St.Charles County Council of the Blind meetings
Business meetings are held on the first Monday of each month (second Monday in September due to Labor Day ) unless otherwise specified. No meetings are held in June, July, or December. Meetings are held in the Community Council Building (2nd floor of the Spencer Branch Library) from 6:30 - 9 p.m. For more information contact Beverly Kaskadden (President) at 636561-6947. CROSSWORD answers from page 11
2nd Monday: Winghaven Civil War Round Table 6:30pm, Midwest BankCentre board room, 2299 Technology Dr. O’Fallon. For more informaiton call Mike at 314.276.5018.
4th Monday: American Legion Post 388 Meets 6:30 pm at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 8945 Vets. Mem. Pkwy. 636.219.0553.
Every Monday: St. Peters Rotary Club
What’s Happening
1st Tuesday: Fleur de Lis Garden Society
6:30pm at various locations. Info: www.fleurdelisgardensociety.org; Jeanne at 314.605.8563.
2nd Tuesday: Show-me Stitchers Embroiderer’s Guild of America
7pm at the Ladue Chapel. Info: www. showmestitchers.com.
Last Tuesday of every month, St. Charles American Legion Post 312 spaghetti dinner.
Noon at St. Peters City Hall, One St. Peters Centre Blvd. www.stpetersrotary.org.
5pm, St. Charles American Legion Post 312, 2500 Raymond Drive in St. Charles. $6 per person. For more information call Post 312 at 636.947.7666.
Every Monday: Seasoned Eye Carvers Meeting
4th Tuesday: O’Fallon Garden Club
The Seasoned Eye Carvers meet every Monday from 9am to noon at the St. Charles Senior Citizens Center, 1455 Fairgrounds (near the Bass Pro Shop). Visitors are always welcome! For more information check the club web site: www.stcharlesareawoodcarvers.com/ or contact Charles Sapp.
Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday: Fitness First Exercise Classes 9:30-10:30am, American Legion Hall, 504 Luetkenhaus Blvd., Wentzville. 314.369.6521.
Mondays: Chronic pain support group American Chronic Pain Association is a support group for and by people experiencing chronic pain. Group meets 2nd and 4th Mondays of every month at 3 – 5 p.m. at the Spencer Road Library in St Peters. Important: This is an anonymous group (first names only).
3rd Monday of Each Month: Life After Loss support group
Support group for families who have lost a loved one to heroin/opiate addiction. 7 - 8:30 p.m. at Barnes Jewish St. Peters Hospital Campus in Room 212 of Professional Building 1. Contact: geevigna@charter.net. No registration required
Every Tuesday: Cribbage Club
1 – 4 p.m. at The Falls Golf Course Clubhouse. Relaxed, friendly play and is open to all. Call 636-561-2970 for more information.
Tuesdays: Lions Club meeting
St. Peters Lions Club meets the first and third Tuesday of every month at 7 p.m. in Old Town St. Peters on Park Street.
Tuesdays: Monthly veterans coffee Veterans from all branches of service are invited to the Wentzville Green Lantern Senior Center at 506 S. Linn Ave. in Wentzville on the second Tuesday of each month from 9 – 10:30 a.m. for coffee, pastries and camaraderie. Come meet with fellow veterans who served our country and share your experience.
Tuesday and Friday Evenings: Tae Kwon Do Classes
Dardenne Presbyterian Church, 7400 South Outer 364 in Dardenne Prairie. For more information, call 636.561.4347.
6:30pm at Sunrise Methodist Church, 7116 Twin Chimney Blvd. Info: Barb at 636.978.5930.
Every Tuesday: Kiwanis Club of St. Charles
Noon-1 p.m. at Bogey Hills Country Club at 1120 Country Club Rd. in St. Charles. Membership in Kiwanis offers you the opportunity to benefit your community and its youth by serving with like-minded people. If you are interested in making a positive impact for generations to come, please join us. For more information please call 636-448-4277. You can also find us at http://stcharleskiwanis.com
Every Tuesday: St. Charles Optimist Club Noon-1pm at Pio’s Restaurant.
Every Tuesday: Quilting Guild at the O’Fallon Family YMCA
1-4pm Free. Quilt for local charities. No sewing experience required.
Every Tuesday: Meeting
Toastmasters
7pm at the Renaud Spirit Center, 2650 Tri Sports Circle, O’Fallon. Info: 636.379.2505.
Every Tuesday: Gateway Spotlight ChorUS
7:15-9:45pm at First United Methodist Church, 801 First Capitol Drive in St. Charles. Info: www.gatewayspotlight. org or 636.256.6823.
Tuesdays: St. Louis Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association Male Caregiver Experience
The group meets on fourth Tuesday of every month from 10-11:30 a.m. at the Spencer Road Library at the Community Commons, 427 Spencer Rd. For more information about Alzheimer’s disease, support, or the Male Caregiver Experience, please call the Alzheimer’s Association’s 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900 or visit www.alz.org/ stl.
Tuesdays: Gateway Chorus Rehearsal
Spotlight
Gateway Spotlight is a women’s a capella chorus that meets at First United Methodist Church at 801 first Capitol Dr. in St. Charles every Tuesday eve-
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ning beginning at 7 p.m. Call 636-2566823 for more details.
Tuesdays: Cribbage
Looking for an evening out? Come and play cribbage Tuesdays at 6 p.m. at the IHOP at 3851 Veterans Memorial Dr. in St. Peters. Win prizes and awards with semiannual tournaments. ACC sanctioned. For more information contact Dee at 636-233-8032.
Every Tuesday & Thursday: Tai Chi at the St. Charles County Family YMCA
8-9am & 10:15-11:15am. No experience necessary. 636-928-1928.
Tuesdays & Thursdays: Get Fit Exercise Classes 9-10am and 5:30-6:30pm at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church Hall, New Melle. 314.369.6521.
Wednesdays: Talk
Veterans
Coffee
Veterans from all branches of the service are invited to attend “Coffee Talk” every Wednesday at. 9 a.m. at Grace Baptist Church, 3601 Ehlmann Rd. in St. Charles (Take I-70 to the Cave Springs exit). We will have applications for VA health care, applications for the honor flight, reports from local American Legion and VFW halls and lots of good comradery. Come join us for free coffee and donuts and enjoy an hour with your fellow veterans.
Every Wednesday: Dardenne Presbyterian Church Basketball
8-9:30pm, Dardenne Presbyterian Christian Life Center, 7400 South Outer 364 in Dardenne Prairie. Open to 6th grade and up. Bring a light and dark shirt for different teams.
1st Wednesday: Hope & Healing
5-6pm, Dardenne Presbyterian Rock Church, 7400 South Outer 364 in Dardenne Prairie. Unique service of music, worship, and prayer for those in need of hope and healing.
Wednesdays: Women’s fishing club
Gateway Bass ‘n Gals all women’s bass club has monthly meetings the first Wednesday of every month at Rookies Bar and Grill at 3721 New Town Rd. in St. Charles at 7 p.m. Women of any fishing level please come and check out our women-only fishing club.
Every Wednesday: Crossroads Cribbage Club 10am Meets at 1380 Boone St., Troy, MO 63379. 636.528.8379.
Every Wednesday: Men’s Golf League
5pm, tee off at 5:30 pm at Heritage of Hawk Ridge. www.lakesaintlouis.com, under the parks and recreation section.
Every Wednesday: Charity Bingo
6:45pm VFW Post 5077 sponsors, at VFW Hall, 8500 Veterans Mem. Pkwy., O’Fallon. 636.272.1945 or www.vfwpost5077.org.
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November 23, 2016 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
HELP WANTED
NOVENA PRAYER TO ST. JUDE May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world, now and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus, Pray for us. St. Jude, Worker of Miracles, Pray for us. St. Jude, Helper of the Hopeless, Pray for us. Say this prayer 9 times a day for 9 days, then publish. Your prayers will be answered. It has never been known to fail.
P.S. Thank you St. Jude, R.H.
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November 23, 2016 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
Movie
By Steve Bryan
No turkeys here: Thanksgiving movies 2016 For many people, Thanksgiving means turkey, football and family time over a very long weekend. When the kids grow restless or Black Friday gets to be too much, many families head to the movies. Hollywood recognizes that fact with a slate of new and notable films, some of which are potential Oscar winners. In fact, there are no turkeys evident in the 2016 lineup. Eddie Redmayne always lands in high-profile movies, and “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” is no exception. “Harry Potter” author J.K. Rowling turns the Hogwarts textbook of the same name into a potential new franchise. Redmayne plays Newt Scamander, the book’s future author who gets involved with the American magical community. Even for muggles, high school can be an especially trying time. “Edge of Seventeen” captures that frustration and angst in a fun and relevant story. The talented Hailee Steinfeld plays Nadine, a high school student whose brother starts dating her best friend. Woody Harrelson adds humor to the story as Mr. Bruner, Nadine’s teacher and a somewhat sympathetic ear. Director Ang Lee returns this year with the very contemporary “Bi l - ly Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk.” Joe Alwyn plays the title role, a teenager who served in the Iraq war and came home to accolades. The story, based on the novel by Jean Christophe-Castelli, shows
what really happened during the heat of battle. Steve Martin, Vin Diesel and Chris Tucker round out a rather impressive cast. Miles Teller typically appears in notable film franchises and indie movie sensations. Though 2015’s “Fantastic Four” reboot crashed and burned, Teller was front and center in 2014’s “Whiplash,” an intense film about an aggressive music teacher. In 2016, the actor teamed up with the prolific Jonah Hill for “War Dogs,” the true story of two young and inexperienced arms dealers. Teller goes for broke in “Bleed For This,” a film based on reallife boxer Vinny Pazienza. Now known as Vinny Paz, the boxer was an up-and-comer in 1991 when he broke his neck in a serious car accident. Teller’s performance captures Paz’s road to recovery and his desire to get back into fighting shape. The actor also may have a shot at Oscar gold with this performance. Currently ranking 100 percent fresh on “Rotten Tomatoes,” Disney’s “Moana” looks like the perfect family choice for the holiday weekend. Newcomer Auli’i Cravalho lends her voice to the title role, as a would-be sailor looking for a legendary island. Dwayne Johnson’s Maui, a demi-god, joins her on her seafaring quest. With quality Disney animation and great voices, this one is a potential crowd pleaser. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! Photos courtesy (top to bottom) “Fantastic Beasts & Where to Find Them’, Warner Bros.; “The Edge of Seventeen”, Gracie Films; “Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk”, Bona Film Group; “War Dogs”, Green Hat Films; “Moana”, Walt Disney; “Bleed for This”, Verdi Productions; 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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