July 13, 2011
Vol 13 No 28
February 4, 2015
‘I wanted to be a hero’
Recipes
Sweet potatoes
Photos courtesy City of St. Charles School District RIGHT: 17-year-old Noah Elliott, shows off a tattoo reminiscent of a Superman logo with a cancer ribbon instead of the “S.” Elliott, who attends the Success Campus in the St. Charles School District, was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a form of bone cancer, soon after he turned 16. ABOVE: (From left) Laurie Juergensen, Success Campus director, with Noah Elliott and Elisa Rael, Success Campus secretary.
For most people, growing up is a process. For 17-year-old Noah Elliott, growing up came with a diagnosis. Elliott, who attends the Success Campus in the St. Charles School District, was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a form of bone cancer, soon after he turned 16. He was celebrating his birthday when he injured his left leg in a skateboarding accident. While seeking medical treatment, Elliott’s doctor noticed something unusual about his left knee and suggested that he go to Children’s Hospital for further tests. On Monday, July 16th, 2013, Elliot learned he had cancer. “When you hear that, it’s so overwhelming that you’re in shock,” he said. The doctors at Children’s Hospital informed Elliott that he had osteosarcoma, a form of bone cancer that most commonly affects teenagers. Within three days of the diagnosis, Elliot was receiving chemotherapy treatments for the cancer and was confined to crutches to keep pressure off his leg, which had become delicate. In an effort to save Elliott’s leg, he was prescribed an aggressive treatment that required 4-48 hour sessions of chemotherapy a month, among other chemical treatments and surgeries to replace the cancerous bone with chrome pieces. The
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Girl Scouts get in gear
Resilient student turns cancer diagnosis into opportunity to help others
Healthy Living
extended hospital stays took a toll on Elliott’s body and mind. “Beyond the normal puking and just feeling awful, I have hearing loss and kidney damage from the chemo,” Elliott said. “When you feel bad all the time, you have waves of depression that are hard to fight through.” It was in these bouts of depression when Elliott made a conscious decision to change his mind set and evaluate how he was dealing with his situation. “I remember seeing kids who were half my age who were going through the same things I was and thinking that I should do something to help them out,” Elliot said. “From then on, when I was physically able, I went around and talked to the kids, told them jokes, did whatever I could to put a smile on their face.” “That’s why I got this,” said Elliott, pointing a tattoo reminiscent of a Superman logo with a cancer ribbon instead of the “S.” “It’s to remind me that cancer could break you or make you a hero. I wanted to be a hero.” Brightening the days of others became Elliott’s therapy; a way for him to circumvent the pain he was feeling by lessening the pain of others. The staff at Children’s Hospital took notice of Elliott’s efforts to help others and decided to reward him by nominating him for a trip to Colorado sponsored by
the Sunshine Kids, a non-profit organization that, according to their website, provides “positive group activities and emotional support for young cancer patients.” It was in Colorado where Noah Elliott fell in love; with the scenery, the Sunshine Kids organization and the other kids he met who were going through similar trials and tribulations. The people he met on the trip permanently changed the way he looked at life and what he wanted to do moving forward. See HERO on page 2
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In This Issue...
February 4, 2015 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
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2 Around Town
New Director of Community Health and the Environment appointed and more.
5 Feature Section Wedding Guide 7 Business Little Black Book starts college program and more. 8 School Proposition E placed on ballot in Wentzville and more. 9 Movie
Competition heats up for Best Song at the Academy Awards.
10 Sports and Learn & Play
Local with sports Gary B. Also, discover a new book with this week’s Novel Ideas.
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The O’Fallon Photo Club’s 2015 exhibit at the Renaud Spirit Center The public is invited to view the O’Fallon Photo Club’s 2015 exhibit in the O’Fallon Cultural Arts Gallery at the Renaud Spirit Center (RSC) located at 2650 Tri Sports Circle in O’Fallon. The exhibit will continue through Feb. 20. The exhibit showcases recent work, including landscapes, portraits and innovative photography by the club’s membership, which includes professional and non-professional photographers. Cultural Arts Gallery admission is free, with the exhibit available for viewing during regular business hours at the indoor recreation com-
plex: 5:15 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday -Thursday, 5:15 a.m.-9 p.m. on Fridays, 7 a.m.-7 p.m. on Saturdays, and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sundays. For more information, call 636-474-2732 or visit www.renaudspiritcenter.com. The O’Fallon Photo Club welcomes visitors and meets at 7 p.m. on the second Wednesday of the month at the O’Fallon Senior Center at 106 North Main Street in the O’Fallon Municipal Centre complex. Membership dues are $5 per quarter. For more information about the club, drop in on a club meeting or contact Pam Landolt at palirish@sbcglobal.net.
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HERO from Cover “His passion is the Sunshine Kids,” said Elisa Rael, secretary at the Success Campus. “That organization has done a lot for him and his ultimate goal is to work for them.” In an effort to help give back to those he believes have given so much to him, Elliott volunteered to speak on behalf of the Sunshine Kids at events in order to help raise funds for the organization. “Whether he’s speaking in front of a crowd of 20 or 400, it’s like he’s just having a normal conversation,” said Laurie Juergensen, Success Campus principal. “His transformation since this all began has been incredible and does not view his experience with cancer as a negative. He sees it as a positive and asks himself ‘What can I do to give kids hope.’” Unfortunately, Elliott’s transformation will have a physical aspect as well. Despite the doctor’s and Elliott’s best efforts, the rounds of
11 Recipes
Sweet potatoes: the versatile vegetable.
12 What’s Happening 14 Classifieds 16 Over the Fence
Joe Morice brings his unique views to the Community News.
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chemotherapy have left his immune system vulnerable and he contracted a staph infection in the same leg where the tumor was located. On Jan.30, Elliott had the leg amputated just above the knee. Forever the optimist, Elliott views this not as a loss, but as an opportunity. “The way things are now, I can’t do a lot on the rebuilt leg. I can’t run, I can’t jump,” said Elliot. “Once I get used to the prosthetic, I’ll be able to walk better, bike and, hopefully, go back to Colorado and snowboard.” “This won’t stop me; the cancer, the infection, the amputation won’t stop me. I’ve come too far to stop now,” Elliott said. And for a kid with a Superman tattoo who’s overcome so much and found a way to turn his misfortune into a way to benefit others, there’s no reason to doubt him. Story courtesy City of St. Charles School District
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www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • February 4, 2015
Girl Scouts get in gear “Girl Scouts, start your engines!” shouts a man standing on the side of a track. Teenage girls sit in high-powered electric go karts mere inches off the ground and grip the steering wheels of their vehicles. In their minds, the girls are preparing to compete against one another, zooming and zipping around the track. What they might not realize, however, is how the race they’re about to begin will help guide their future. The Girls Academy of Racing Science is one of Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri’s most popular programs in the STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) areas, and invites girls to join Pole Position Raceway and Lindenwood University in learning about cutting-edge racing technology. Scientists and engineers, who also happen to be racecar drivers, teach Girl Scouts about acceleration and deceleration, speed, mathematic formulas, engineering and, of course, racing. Girls go through four educational and hands-on stations before progressing to the raceway, where they don helmets and buckle up to put their newly learned STEM skills to the test. The girls then test their new skills in high-performance go karts
Photo courtesy Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri Girl Scouts participate in The Girls Academy of Racing Science at Pole Position Raceway.
on a quarter-mile racetrack, competing for the fastest lap time. Dustin Gilliland, a mechanic at Pole Position Raceway, said the company was surprised to hear Girl Scouts were interested in participating in such a program, as most of its clientele are men. “So far we’ve had nothing but extremely attentive Girl Scouts,” he said. “We were even surprised to see that the Girl Scouts can be very competitive and aggressive out on the track, which is great. [Learning about STEM] just makes for better, more-wellrounded people. Girls who participate in the Girls Academy of Racing Science have a better understanding of their own car, and so many other aspects of day-to-day life.” Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri has identified STEM as one of three main focus areas that girls will need to succeed in the future. Fostering a love
of the STEM subject areas in young girls is crucial to creating a diverse population of future leaders. While women represent half of all collegeeducated American workers, they make up only 28 percent of the science and engineering fields. Recent studies have shown that when it comes to their success in math, men typically attribute it to their own ability, while women attribute it to luck or effort. Abbey Keller, a junior at Lutheran South High School and Girl Scout Ambassador who is planning to pursue a career in prosthetic engineering, said programs like the Girls Academy of Raceway Science offer a chance for young women to do something they may not have been able to do before. “Fifty years ago, women couldn’t have jobs in STEM because they had to do work around the house,” she said. “Now that has really changed. Girls should be pushed to look at math and science more, because they’ll have fresh ideas and have more fun with it.” Girl Scouts who are interested in participating in the next Girls Academy of Racing Science on Feb. 16 can register at girlscoutsem.org and click ‘Register Now,’ or call the Help Desk at 314-400-4600.
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February 4, 2015 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
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Community Living, Inc. to host 15th annual Legacy Ball Community Living, Inc., will once again recognize the many positive contributions made by two local leaders whose dedicated efforts are benefiting individuals with disabilities across St. Charles County as the organization hosts its 15th annual Legacy Ball event. Set for March 7 at the St. Charles Convention Center, the event will kick off at 6 p.m., and will feature a four-course wine dinner, oral and silent auctions, live music and the presentation of a pair of Legacy Awards and the Community Volunteer of the Year award. Proceeds from the ball, which is one of St. Charles County’s premier gala events, benefit over 900 individuals and their families that are served by Community Living. Selected to receive Legacy Awards during the event are St. Charles leaders George Black and Mitch Hoffman. During the gala, Community Living will also present its Community Volunteer of the Year award to the Father William Pezold Council # 7198 of the Knights of Columbus. “As one of the most distinctive and sophis-
ticated galas in St. Charles County, the Legacy Ball is always a highly anticipated event, and one that plays a very important role in helping our organization continue our work to enrich the lives of people with disabilities in St. Charles County,” said Barb Griffith, President and CEO of Community Living, Inc. “We are looking forward to celebrating the remarkable contributions of George Black, Mitch Hoffman and the Father William Pezold Council # 7198 of the Knights of Columbus, and invite and encourage the community to join us for this elegant night out for a good cause.” Tickets for the gala are available at www. cliservices.org or by calling Barbara James, Annual Giving Coordinator, at 636-970-2800. Now through Feb. 6, single seats are available for $100. After that date, tickets can be purchased for $125. Tables seat ten. A number of sponsorship and advertising opportunities are also available. For information on tickets, sponsorships and other general event details, visit www.cliservices.org.
Woodson appointed Director of Community Health and the Environment
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St. Louis University’s School County Executive Steve of Public Health. Ehlmann has appointed Hope Woodson has fostered the Woodson as Director of the department’s relationship St. Charles County Department of Community Health with the community through her work on a variety of health and the Environment. The apand public safety committees, pointment was confirmed by including the St. Louis Area the County Council at its Jan. Regional Response System 26 meeting. Woodson has over 19 years (STARRS) Board of Directors, Advisory Board and Public of experience in healthcare management. She came to St. Health and Hospital Committee. In addition, she serves on Charles County Department of Community Health and the Crider Health Center’s CriEnvironment in 2002, serving sis Team and the St. Charles County Ambulance Advisory as the Public Health EmergenBoard. cy Response Planner. WoodWoodson is a graduate of son later served as Director of Photo courtesy St. Charles County the Public Health Leadership the Division of Public Health Hope Woodson has been appointed as Direcand Assistant Director, and tor of the St. Charles County Department of Institute, FOCUS St. Louis, Vision St. Charles County, most recently as acting direc- Community Health and Environment. and Heartland Centers for tor of the department. During her tenure, Woodson implePublic Health Development. mented the first adult immunization program She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Health as well as developed numerous policies and Promotion Management from Southeast Misprocedures to improve efficiency and opera- souri State University and Master’s Degree in tions. In addition to her work at the county, Healthcare Administration from Lindenwood Woodson served as an adjunct professor for University.
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The return of prom season By Elegance Made Simple Wedding Shop
It is that time of year again, prom season. That special night, when girls in colorful, elegant gowns and boys in handsome tuxedos pose for photos that they will cherish for the rest of their lives. The word prom is short for promenade, the formal parading of guests at a party. The prom can be traced back to the 19th Century. A banquet that the American universities held for each year’s graduating class; proms were not always so lavish, expensive or widespread. When high school proms began, they were relatively simple affairs. Students would come in their Sunday best, but would not purchase new clothes for the event. The occasion called for tea, socializing and dancing. During the 1920s and 1930s, American youth began to experience more freedom with the arrival of the
car and other luxury items. The high school prom expanded into a yearly class banquet at which juniors and seniors arrived in party clothes and danced. In the 1950s as Americans enjoyed the luxury of the post-war economy, proms began to become elaborate, expensive events. Teenage girls began to pay more attention to their prom dresses and made special shopping trips for the perfect outfit. In 1975 President Ford’s daughter Susan held her high school’s prom at possibly the best location ever, the White House. Today’s proms have become expensive, allnight affairs with after-prom activities. Stretch Hummers, fancy dresses and glamorous ballrooms are now prom-night standards. In practically every way, prom has moved beyond the days of strictly chaperoned, etiquette banquets to glamorous extravaganza where nearly anything goes.
The Color Room covers all pre-wedding treatments More than any other moment in your life, your wedding is a celebration of your joy, passion and the sharing of your friends and family. It is an occasion of meaningful commitment and a time to celebrate! A wonderful wedding is all in the details. Each moment creates a memory. The Color Room provides relaxation and beauty
to your special day. Our caring, professional staff is committed to providing services to create your cherished memories and make your dream become a reality. We can handle all of your prewedding treatments, including: Facials Waxing and tinting Make-up application
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Questions to ask before hiring your wedding photographer Your wedding will be one of the most memorable times of your life and no one can capture it better than a professional photographer. So how do you find the right one? As you begin the interview process, here are some questions to help you determine if you’ve found the best photographer for your wedding. 1. Does the photographer have a gallery of wedding images you can review? Reviewing sample work allows you to see the photographer’s strengths and weaknesses - don’t fool yourself, every photographer has them. You’ll also be able to get an idea of their style. Are they formal with an eye for the perfect picture or do they love to capture the hidden moments when no one is looking? Look for images that you can see yourself in. Think of three words that describe you and share those with your photographer. Every photographer has a style and reviewing their gallery can help you determine if theirs is right for you. 2. What is the photographer’s working style? Some photographers are orderly and operate like wedding planners. Others prefer to sit
back and let the events of the wedding unfold. It’s important that you find someone who can understand and meet your expectations. Discuss this ahead of time and ask away, so that you understand how well the photographer’s working style matches your own. 3. Is the photographer available for an engagement session? An engagement session does more than provide you with priceless images together be-
fore you get married. It’s also your first opportunity to work with your photographer and develop a relationship that will allow you to be completely at ease on your big day. Use this session to confirm if the photographer is indeed the right person to capture your wedding. You won’t be able to see everything that happens during your wedding day. The right photographer will capture moments you never knew existed.
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February 4, 2015 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
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By Cindy Moore
Super Brawl There is a certain sadness that has fallen upon our home. No, I have not misplaced my credit card or discovered a 25-percent-off coupon in my purse which expired the day before. Come now, that would be profound misery instead. I’m only talking about a few boo-hoos and they are coming somewhere from within the overstuffed chair in the living room. It is my husband. He is in the fetal position moaning gloomily deep down in the cushions. The chair has taken on the impression of his body because he has been planted in it since early September – the official time the football season began. For the past four months he has been burrowed in his football-viewing chair to watch every game—because each one is of the utmost vital importance! One game is between two opponents of supreme rivalry; other games will determine who plays who at what bowl; another team is sporting new
outfits for the first time; still another is exploring a new brand of hot dog to serve at its concession stand and that will undoubtedly have a crucial impact on the outcome of the game. I typically have no real interest in the sport; however, the new outfit one did intrigue me long enough to snatch a view of the uniforms and determine the colors were all wrong. Also, I will watch the Super Bowl for the commercials. I feel if I am forced to watch grown men in tights fight over a stupid ball only to have the one who started the brawl run away with it, then my time is being somewhat compensated by watching four million dollar commercials. Now the season nears an end. But my husband is not quivering in sadness because it is concluding or even because his team did not make it. It’s worse. His undershorts are in a wad because there is scandal afoot in his beloved sport.
There is another fight— again, over the ball. This time, it seems someone forgot to p u m p them up with enough air. My husband says the integrity of the game is in question. I say the sport was always full of hot air and long overdue to release some of it. Touchdown! Cindy Moore is the mother of three superlative kids, servant of two self-indulgent felines and wife to one nifty husband. Her ficticious occupation? Archeological Humorist: someone who unearths absurdity and hilarity in strange and unusual places including public restrooms, the lint filter, and church meetings. Most recently, she excavated a find in her neighbor’s bird feeder. The opinions expressed in this column are Cindy Moore’s alone and do not reflect the opinion of the owners or staff of Community News.
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Family to family, the RV connection By Russ Patton, owner of Byerly RV
The colder it gets in January the more we imagine the adventures waiting for us in spring. Families emerge from brief hibernation to attend the RV Show and visit dealer’s lots. The common theme is “family adventure.” And a common theme, at least on the Mississippi side of Missouri, is the family owned RV Dealership. The Midwest Gateway RVDA, sponsors of the St Louis RV Show, is a group of locally owned, family based businesses. For instance, Byerly RV, is starting it’s 67th year in business. In 1967 John Patton purchased the company from Walter Byerly. Today participants in the company include many Pattons- Russ, Pete, Guy, Fran, and their spouses and childrenPhyllis, Jay, Adrienne, Warren and Sarah! The theme even extends to other employees with multiple family members like, the Hawks, the Morgans, the Goetz and the Freses. But we also have adopted a lot of singles among our 46 fulltime employees. Although the recent recession has created an opportunity for national consolidators to buy up weaker dealers or owners who want to retire, the dealers in eastern Missouri are survivors and in-
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trepidly independent. There must be something about Missourians. Another example is the grocery business. Not many major markets can boast about the dominance of local stores such as Schnucks, Dierbergs and Straubs. How is this possible? Local companies know their customers, support their communities and keep their money in Missouri. For more information about Byerly RV see us on Facebook and visit us at www.byerlyrv.com. Byerly, Missouri’s largest Class A motorhome dealer and the largest independently owned towable RV dealer.
Little Black Book goes to college Southeast Missouri State University has been selected by Little Black Book: Women in Business (LBB) to be the first university to pilot a collegiate version of the professional women’s group under the guidance of Little Black Book member Dr. Erin Fluegge-Woolf. As Dr. Fluegge-Woolf trains these young women academically to be prepared to go into business as entrepreneurs and executives she will also follow the LBB model to engage them
socially and personally, equipping them with the skills they will need to excel. “Young women need to know that there is more to business than a professional marketing plan,” said Angel Magasano, co-founder of Little Black Book. “Understanding your personal marketing plan, including how to conduct yourself in every professional and social situation, is just as important when you are building and growing your career.” The founding members of
Little Black Book: Southeast Missouri State University includes Danielle Brockes, President, Jessica Janos, Taylor Kirn, Shannon Hoff, Megan Chapman, Jessica Kettler, and Noel Burke. Little Black Book: Women in Business is a non-profit professional women’s organization whose mission is to connect, promote, inspire and support women with education, skills and resources necessary for business and personal growth.
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February 4, 2015 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
Wentzville Board of Education votes to place Proposition E on ballot The Wentzville School District Board of Education has unanimously voted to place a 25 cent tax levy increase on the April 7 ballot to accommodate the continued enrollment growth of the district. “Our needs have not changed since November,” shared Superintendent Dr. Curtis Cain. “We must make room for the hundreds of new students we add each year. Most of our buildings are at or nearing capacity and new construction takes time. If we want student achievement to remain in the top 8% in the state, it’s imperative that we provide adequate space for all students to learn and thrive.” Based on voter feedback, Proposition E was modified from the November election to include additional classrooms at Holt High School and provide the funds necessary to purchase land for future school sites. Proceeds from Proposition E would also be used to construct a new elementary school, complete Phase Two of Liberty High School, construct additional classrooms at Discovery Ridge, Duello and Lakeview elementary schools, purchase equipment and furnishings for the new classrooms, upgrade security throughout the district, and upgrade science and FACS classrooms at Wentzville Middle School. The operating levy will require a simple majority from voters and
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includes a sunset clause that would expire no later than 2035. The district’s tax rate is currently one of the lowest in St. Charles County at $4.99 per $100 of assessed value. The proposed levy would increase that rate to $5.24 per $100 of assessed value. District residents who own a home with a market value of $200,000 could expect to pay an additional $7.92 per month if the proposition passes. The WSD has been the fastest growing school district in Missouri in the 21st Century. Enrollment has increased by more than 8,000 students since 2001, averaging well over 600 new students every year. According to projections in a demographic study released last year by Business Information Services, the WSD could add more than 5,000 new students over the next decade. The report’s key findings include calculations that indicate one third of the district’s schools are currently over capacity. “A primary concern in our analysis is the Wentzville District’s ability to house the anticipated number of students,” the report states. “By 2018, the district’s enrollment could be 16,832 in buildings designed to hold only 15,583 students.” The entire Demographics and Enrollment Projection Study can be found on the district website.
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The Annual STEM Celebration Breakfast to honor local high school students excelling in science, technology, engineering and math will be held 7:30 a.m. March 6 at Old Hickory Golf Club, #1 Dye Club Road in St. Peters. The event is hosted by the Partners for Progress of Greater St. Charles, a civic group founded in 2001 to influence community progress so people, businesses and institutions flourish. STEM is a national and regional effort to better prepare the workforce of tomorrow by encouraging students to engage in studies, events, and careers involving science, technology, engineering and math. All 17 public and private high schools in St.
Charles County are nominating students for these honors based on their STEM achievements, college and career plans. This year’s keynote speaker will be John Clark, general manager of Masterclock, a high tech company based in St. Charles that was named Missouri’s 2014 Exporter of the Year by Governor Jay Nixon. Admission to the March 6 recognition breakfast is free, seating is limited, and registration is required and going on now. This year’s generous event sponsors are BoardPaq and The Electrical Connection. For more information about the 2015 PfP STEM Celebration Breakfast and sponsorship opportunities, contact Scott Drachnik at 636-229-5284.
www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • February 4, 2015
Movie
Oscar Watch 2015: A graceful farewell from the Rhinestone Cowboy
In the weeks leading up to the Academy Awards, movie fans typically expect the acting categories to generate the most controversy. There are times, though, when the nominees for Best Original Song stir the pot more than the other categories. (Anyone remember Robin Williams performing the original song “Blame Canada” from “South Park: Bigger, Longer, Uncut” at the Oscars?) This year’s crop of original song nominees goes for the heart instead of the funny. James Keach’s wonderful “Glen Campbell...I’ll Be Me” looks at the beloved singer/songwriter’s last road tour. Suffering from Alzheimer’s, Campbell handles a grueling road schedule that some younger performers might not want to tackle. He may forget a name, but his talent remains blessedly untouched. In the film, Campbell also sings “I’m Not Gonna Miss You,” a nominee for Best Original Song. Cowritten with Julian Raymond, the music and lyrics speak to Campbell’s illness and acceptance of what is
“Glen Campbell...I’ll Be Me” photo courtesy of PCH Films
coming down the road. It’s a graceful farewell from the Rhinestone Cowboy to his fans, children and his beloved wife. “Begin Again,” a critically-acclaimed drama, serves up another nominee: “Lost Stars” by Gregg Alexander and Danielle Brisebois (She played Archie Bunker’s cute little niece on TV years ago). The movie is a funny, touching story featuring Mark Ruffalo as a disgraced music producer who stumbles into a second chance. Played over the closing credits in “Selma,” “Glory” speaks to Martin Luther King’s influence on the Civil Rights Movement, both then and now. (One line says “That’s why we walk through Ferguson with our hands up.”) With music and lyrics by John Stephens and Lonnie Lynn, “Glory” has a good chance at taking the gold this year. While a fun romp, “The Lego Movie” is, at its core, the story of a boy desperately trying to bond with his dad. In his mind, there’s a vibrant world inside the Lego cityscapes his dad has constructed in the basement. Shawn Patterson’s “Everything is Awesome”
“Begin Again” photo courtesy of Exclusive Media Group
“Selma” photo courtesy of Cloud Eight Films
hollywoodcasinostlouis.com
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By Steve Bryan
theme song is so cheerful and infectious that it had to get an Oscar nomination. “Beyond the Lights,” a 2014 love story, focuses on the relationship between a young singer and the police officer assigned to be her bodyguard. The film also yielded “Grateful,” another Best Original Song nominee. With music and lyrics by Diane Warren, the song’s chances may suffer due to lack of exposure for the film. ABC will broadcast the 87th Academy Awards on Sunday, February 22 at 7 p.m. ET, 6 p.m. Central 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.
“The Lego Movie” photo courtesy of Warner Bros
“Beyond the Lights” photo courtesy of Relativity Media
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February 4, 2015 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
Sports St. Charles Community College announces softball player additions SCC softball head coach Michelle Patrico is very proud of placing six players on the roster for the upcoming season. “We are very excited about this group of fine student-athletes. As well as being enthusiastic about the game, these players are very talented,” said the coach. “There is a good combination of speed and power that will add depth to the already solid team.” Students who signed letters of intent with SCC included Maggie Groshong, pitcher from Cape Central High School; Niki Swafford, shortstop and third baseman from Fort Zumwalt North High School; Tanner Cotner, outfielder from Warrenton High School; Olivia Boyer, third baseman from Francis Howell High School; Brianna Schatz, catcher and outfielder from Webster Groves High School; and Lindsey Lewis, outfielder and catcher from Francis Howell Central High School. The Lady Cougars play in the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) and feel confident they will be impressive in the Midwest Community College Athletic Association’s (MCCAC) Region 16 District. Since its inception as a NJCAA-certified sport, the St. Charles Community College softball team has won multiple MCCAC championships. For more information visit www.stchas.edu. * Not far away to hear the ball hit the bat Defensive tackle from Rams gets another award The St. Louis Rams player Aaron Donald was honored once again Saturday evening as he was named Associated Press NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year. “I’m thrilled to congratulate Aaron on this tremendous achievement,” Rams Head Coach Jeff Fisher said. “From the moment he arrived in St. Louis last spring, Aaron worked extremely hard to prepare himself for a great rookie season, and he certainly delivered. His production on the field speaks for itself. As an entire organization, we’re very proud of Aaron and we celebrate with him.” Donald was named to the Pro Bowl after leading all NFL rookies with 9.0 sacks this season.
SUDOKU:
Success in the pool at Lindenwood The Lindenwood men’s swimming and diving team swept the RMAC weekly awards this week. Jakub Jonczyk was the men’s swimmer of the week, while David Cochran was the men’s diver of the week. Jonczyk won two individual at Lindenwood’s trimeet last Friday. He captured first in the 200 free (1:41.81) and 100 free (46.02) events. He was also a member of Lindenwood’s “B” 400 medley relay team which place second. Jonczyk won the fastest split in that event with a 45.26 final leg. Cochran swept the one-meter and three-meter diving events. He had a mark of 269.17 in the onemeter dive and a 285.83 in the three-meter dive. * Thanks to Lindenwood’s Tyler Scheller-Sports Information Graduate Assistant Mixed martial arts offers free tickets at Family Arena Saturday The Fight Hard Nation will pack the St. Charles facility for another tremendous night of Fight Hard MMA action just as they did in October. The event will take place this Saturday, Feb. 7 at 7 p.m. They will be offering thousands of free tickets to fans through several area marketing and retail partners as well its Facebook page. There is a charge for parking. Go to www.FamilyArena.com for more details. * Always at the edge of your seat Tune into Your Health Plus Radio Show, Every Saturday at 8 a.m. on KSLQ 104.5 FM For more information go to www.YourHealthPlus.info. One-hundred percent natural products to help focus, reduce stress, more energy, curb your appetite, healthiest coffee, anti-aging serum and more… 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.
Youngest Pick:
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.
“The Smallest Girl in the Smallest Grade”
Community News is proud to offer our readers “Book Buzz.” This column will feature great books for children in three categories: Youngest Pick: early childhood to the first or second grade, Middle Pick: elementary school children, and Oldest Pick: middle school children. Enjoy!
See solution on page 13
A few weeks ago the Professional Football Writers of America (PFWA) voted him as the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year. * Not a bad way to start your football career
Reprinted with permission, Missourian Publishing Company. Copyright 2015.
Meet Sally McCabe “The Smallest Girl in the Smallest Grade.” Sally has a big heart and notices tiny details in this new book by Justin Roberts, his first and a delightful winner based on a song he wrote and performs. Sally is observant, sees all that is happening around her, from the “wildflowers tipped toward the light” to “the howl of a hound dog late one night.” This bitty child, barely big enough to see over the top of her desk, also observes her classmates’ indiscretions, how hateful they are to one another, on the playground and in the classroom. Enough, she thinks. Taking matters in her own hands, Sally calls a halt, but doesn’t merely say, “stop.” Instead she offers a suggestion, a signal of sorts, to help her classmates learn to be co-hearts. Illustrator Christian Robinson gives each classmate a unique look, adding to the charm of this Golden Rule-themed book.
www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • February 4, 2015
Recipe:
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Sweet Potatoes: the versatile vegetable
If you’re looking for a little variety to spice up your life, cooking with a versatile veggie such as the sweet potato may give your menu the satisfying kick you crave, along with a healthy dose of the nutrients your body needs. Unlike many vegetables with a peak season that comes and goes, sweet potatoes can be found at your local grocery store year round with a consistent quality and freshness. Because they are available fresh, canned or frozen, sweet potatoes offer the ultimate flexibility for healthy and delicious menu options at any meal. With virtually no fat and low in sodium, sweet potatoes, or yams, fit perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle, with major nutritional bonuses to boot. In addition to being a source of vitamin B-6, iron, potassium and fiber, the sweet potato provides twice the recommended daily allowance of vitamin A and more than one-third of the requirements for vitamin C. Sweet potatoes also rank significantly lower than white potatoes in the glycemic index, which explains why many carb-counting diets encour-
age substituting sweet potatoes for white potatoes. Tips for perfect sweet potatoes These prize-winning recipes show you how easy it is to create unique dishes with versatile, nutritious sweet potatoes. Before you get started, remember these tips from the Louisiana Sweet Potato Commission: • Fresh sweet potatoes can be stored for up to a month at 55°F to 65°F, but should not be refrigerated until after they are cooked. • Always use a stainless steel knife when cutting a sweet potato; using a carbon blade will cause the yam to darken. • One 15-ounce can of sweet potatoes equals one cup of fresh sweet potatoes. • Canned sweet potatoes are precooked, so add them at the end of a recipe. For more prize-winning free recipes, or to enter your recipe in the national Louisiana Sweet Potato Commission’s 2015 Sweet Rewards Recipe Contest, visit www.sweetpotato.org.
Creamy Smoked Sweet Potato Soup Winner in the “Fresh” Category Servings: 6–8 | Courtesy of Samantha Foglesong, New Orleans, LA Ingredients: 4 extra-large sweet potatoes (about 5 pounds) 4 cups seafood stock 2 cups heavy whipping cream 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, divided 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1 pound fresh jumbo lump crabmeat, picked free of shells 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted 1 tablespoon thinly sliced chives
In large Dutch oven, combine sweet potatoes, stock and cream. Blend on high speed with an immersion blender until smooth.
Winner in the “Canned” Category Servings: 6 | Courtesy of Michele Carl, Masonville, CO
Ingredients: 1 cup pecans 1 cup almonds 3/4 cup honey, divided 1/8 teaspoon vanilla extract 12 dried pitted dates 1/8 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, divided 1 tablespoon unsalted butter 2 cans (15 ounces each) sweet potato puree 1/2 cup apple cider 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves 1/2 cup minced crystallized ginger 2 cups miniature marshmallows Dark chocolate shavings for garnish Directions: Preheat oven to 170°F. In food processor, pulse pecans and almonds until chopped. Add 1/4 cup honey, vanilla, dates, salt, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon and butter, and process until finely chopped.
Directions: Prepare smoker to 200°F. Smoke sweet potatoes 2 1/2–3 hours. Let cool, and peel.
Sweet Potato S’mores
Heat over medium heat, and add 1/2 teaspoon salt, then cinnamon and nutmeg. Strain mixture through fine-mesh sieve into large bowl; discard solids.
Spread in thin layer on parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake until crispy, about 3 hours. Let cool, and cut into 3-inch squares. Reduce oven to 250°F. Spray a 13-by-9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. In food processor, combine sweet potato, apple cider, remaining honey, ginger, nutmeg, cloves and remaining cinnamon; process until smooth. Stir in crystallized ginger. Transfer to prepared baking dish, and cook 1 hour. Stir well, and cook 30 minutes more. Let cool to room temperature. Increase oven to 300°F. Spray rimmed baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray. Spread 1⁄2-inch layer of sweet potato butter on each cracker. Top with marshmallows, and place on prepared baking sheet; bake 10 minutes. Sprinkle with chocolate shavings and serve.
In medium bowl, combine crab, lemon juice, red pepper, remaining salt, butter and chives. Divide soup among bowls and top with crab mixture.
Piquant Sweet Potato Quiche Winner in the “Frozen” Category Servings: 6 | Courtesy of Karen McGowan, Houston, TX Ingredients: 1 bag (15-ounces) frozen sweet potato fries, thawed 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter 1 1/2 cups shredded Havarti or Monterey Jack cheese 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and diced 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese 2 cups chopped cooked ham 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh chives 4 large eggs, lightly beaten 1 cup half-and-half 1 1/2 teaspoons salt 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Directions: Preheat oven to 425°F. Spray 10-inch pie dish with nonstick cooking spray. Pulse sweet potato in food processor until shredded. Transfer sweet potato to sieve and press with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Press potato into bottom and up sides of prepared pie dish. Brush with melted butter and cover with aluminum foil. Bake until edges of crust are golden brown, 20–25 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack. Reduce oven
to 350°F. Add Havarti cheese, jalapeno, Swiss cheese, ham and chives to crust in one layer. In medium bowl, combine eggs, half-and-half, salt, paprika, pepper and cayenne. Pour evenly over cheese mixture and cover with aluminum foil. Bake until knife inserted into center comes out clean, 30–40 minutes. Let cool 5 minutes before serving.
www.PayneFamily-
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What’s Happening
February 4, 2015 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
Send your event to editor@mycnews.com and we'll print it! EVENTS Feb. 4: Movie screening The St. Charles County German Heritage Club will be showing the documentary “Utopia - Revisiting a German State in America” at 7 pm at the Stegton Regency Banquet Center (1450 Wall Street) in St. Charles. This event is free and the public is invited. This film shares the story of the thousands of the German emigrants that settled in St. Charles and the surrounding counties. Feb. 5: Adult flag-football league registration This recreational league for players ages 18 and up will begin on Feb. 15 with registration ending 10 days before the league begins or when the league is full. Your team will compete weekly on an athletic field next to Rec-Plex South on Sundays between noon and 5 p.m. Each team must have at least six players and can have as many as 15 players. The cost is $415 per team. This is a team sign-up only program. Individuals looking for a spot on a team may email mdaigle@ stpetersmo.net with your name, address, day and evening phone numbers, age, and football background. Learn more or register your team at www.stpetersmo.net/ rec-connect or call 636-939-2386, ext. 1400. Feb. 6: Registrations due Registration for the Lake Saint Louis Father Daughter Sweetheart Dance is now open! Baseball/softball registration will begin Jan. 2. Call 636-561-4620 for visit www.lakesaintlouis.com for more information. Feb. 6: Trivia night The Child Center, Inc. & Champ Assistance Dogs will host Super Hero Trivia Night. Doors open at 6 p.m. and trivia begins at 7 p.m. at the Professional Firefighters of
Eastern Missouri Banquet Center in St. Peters. The night will include beer, soda, trivia, games, auction items, and raising money for two great causes. For payment and more information go to http:// thechildcenter.com/events/trivianight/ or call Danielle at 636-3320899. Feb. 7: Father-daughter dance St. Peters Cultural Arts Centre is providing a wonderful opportunity for dads and other father figures of all ages to treat your little girls, ages 5 to 13, to a wonderful evening of music and dancing. The dance will take place from 6:30-9 p.m. at the Cultural Arts Centre located at one St. Peters Centre Blvd. in St. Peters adjacent to St. Peters City Hall. Snacks will be served, and a professional photographer will be selling picture packages at the event. Tickets for the dance are $13 per person. The professional photos will be sold separately. Advance registration is required. Register in person at the Rec-Plex, online using RecConnect, or call 636-939-2386, ext. 1400. When registering online, print out your receipt and bring it with you for admission to the dance. Feb. 7: Polar Plunge Registration begins at 10 a.m. and the plunge is at 12 p.m. at the Lake St. Louis Community Association Clubhouse. The Post Plunge Party and Awards will immediately follow on site at the Community Association Clubhouse. The Polar Plunge is sponsored by the O’Fallon and Lake St. Louis Police Departments with 100 percent of the proceeds supporting Special Olympics Missouri. Feb. 7: Trivia night The Kiwanis Club of West St. Charles County is holding a team trivia night at the Carpenter’s
Union Hall at 755 Parr Road in Wentzville, Missouri. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and trivia begins at 7 p.m. Call Erica Fiore at 636-327-5858 or Tim Hooton at 636-695-4733 or for more information.
– 4 p.m. Dinner will be served buffet style in the church’s fellowship hall. Carry-outs are also available. The cost is $10 for adults and $5 for children (ages 6-11). The public is cordially invited. For more information call 636-828-5221.
Feb. 7: Poker fundraiser St. Charles’ only Women’s Flat Track Derby League, St. Chux Derby Chix (SCDC) will host its 3rd Annual Poker Fundraiser at Nightshift Bar & Grill at 3979 Mexico Road in St. Peters. Receive $500 in additional chips with paid admission before Feb. 4 Register now at www.stchuxderbychix. com, no PayPal account required. Visit our website www.stchuxderbychix.com for more information.
Feb. 9: Blood drive SunRise United Methodist Church at 7116 Twin Chimneys Blvd. in O’Fallon will hold a blood drive in the main lobby from 3:30 – 7:30 p.m. To donate, contact Rick Oliver at 636-219-9949 or go to www. bloodcenterIMPACT.org and use the sponsor code 9256. New donors and walk-ins welcome.
Feb. 7: Comedy night Comedians Pete Lee and Tracey Ashley will headline St. Charles Community College’s Comedy Night. Doors open at 7 p.m. in the theater of the Donald D. Shook Fine Arts Building on the SCC campus in Cottleville. The show is rated R. Tickets are $10 for the general public and $5 for SCC students with a valid ID. Purchase tickets online at stchastickets.com or through the SCC box office at 636-922-8050. For more information, including information about group rates, contact Mandi Smith, SCC student activities coordinator, at 636-922-8469 or asmith@stchas. edu.
Feb. 10: Soup supper fundraiser True Health Chiropractic will be hosting “Soup’s On” Soup Supper on Feb. 10 at 5:30 p.m. This event is 100 percent based on donations in order to raise money for Sierra from St. Peter’s who has intractable epilepsy. True Health Chiropractic has partnered with the Make-aWish Foundation to help Sierra get to Disney World. All donations and proceeds from the event will go to Make-a-Wish. If you have questions call 636-614-0401 or email staytruechiro@gmail.com.
Feb. 7: Book signing Authors/photographers Sheree and Russell Nielsen will be signing copies of their new book, “Folly Beach Dances” from 10 a.m. - noon at 6 North Café at 10 Cliff View Drive in Wentzville. For more information call 636-8568066 or visit www.6northcafe.com.
Feb. 11: Dinner benefit Mark your calendars as the United Methodist Church at Wentzville, located at 725 Wall Street in Wentzville, holds their annual Italian Feast! Enjoy noodles, a variety of sauces and toppings, salad and garlic bread topped off by the ever-popular chocolate dessert bar! Serving begins at 5:30 pm. A love offering will be graciously accepted, which will be used in support the church’s hand bell music program. More information, please call 636-327-6377 or visit us at www.livelovegrow.com.
Feb. 8: Chicken and dumpling dinner St. John’s United Church of Christ, located 2.5 miles west of New Melle off Hwy. D on St. Johannes Ln., will be hosting its annual Chicken & Dumpling Dinner from 11 a.m.
Feb. 12: Valentine’s trip This trip, sponsored by St. Peters Cultural Arts Centre will visit McArthur’s Bakery where you will be able to purchase special bakery goods. Next on the tour will be a visit to St. Louis County’s old-
est brick house built in 1808 by Thomas Sappington for his bride, Mary Ann Kincaid. Lunch will be at the Sappington Barn Tearoom and Restaurant. After lunch, the trip goes to Walter Knoll’s Wholesale Floral Company on LaSalle Street in St. Louis. Finally the trip will come to the Crown Candy Kitchen. The cost of this tour is $76 per person and includes transportation, lunch, admissions, gratuities, and guide. For more information or to register for this tour, call ext. 1624 at 636-397-6903 or go online to www.stpetersmo.net/ rec-connect. Feb. 13: Wentzville Parks & Recreation Job Fair From 2 – 6 p.m. at Progress Park in Wentzville, applications will be accepted for temporary summer positions for lifeguards, concessionaires, day camp counselors, recreation aides and umpires. Applicants should be prepared to be interviewed and age 16 or older by May 1, 2015. No early appointments will be provided. For more information, call the Parks & Recreation Office at 636-332-9236. Feb. 13: Dinner concert The St. Charles County Youth Choir will host “Romance is in the Air” Dinner and Concert at Calvary Mid-Rivers Christian Church. Tickets are $30 for adults; $20 for children. Call Debbie at 636-2790067 for information or reservations. Feb. 14: Valentine’s Dinner at Innsbrook Make your honey happy by reserving your place at Innsbrook’s Valentine’s Day Dinner (men are required to wear a jacket) at Innsbrook Aspen Center located at Aspen Circle Dr. in Innsbrook at 6 p.m. Overnight packages are also available. See more details at http://www.innsbrook-resort. com/vacations/valentines-day. Call 636-928-3366 ext. 0 for more information and reservations.
SPIRITELITE.COM
www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • February 4, 2015 Feb. 15: Fried chicken dinner The Lincoln County Council on Aging (LCCOA), located at 1380 Boone St. in Troy, will be hosting an all-youcan-eat fried chicken dinner from 12 - 4 p.m. Cost is $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 6-12 (children under 6 are free). All you can eat in house, or call ahead for car-side to-go service. To call ahead or for more information call 636-528-7000. Feb. 15-16: Musical auditions Wentzville Christian Church announces auditions for “Meet Me in St. Louis” on Feb. 15 from 1 – 5 p.m., and Feb. 16 from 6 – 9 p.m. Those auditioning should come prepared to sing 20-30 measures of a Broadway-style song. An accompanist will be provided. Please bring your own sheet music in the correct key. Actors will also be asked to learn and perform a short dance. Additional information can be found at wentzvillecc.org. Wentzville Christian Church is located at 1507 Highway Z in Wentzville. If you have any questions please call Tammy at 636-219-3238. Feb. 16: Deadline to apply for “Arts & Craft” festival Habitat for Humanity of St. Charles County invites artists and homebrewers to participate in their first annual “Arts & Craft” festival, a fundraising event on April 18 at 308 Civic Park Drive in O’Fallon, filled with food trucks, a beer garden, and live music by Butch Wax and the Hollywoods. Applications are available online at http://www.stcharlesrestore.org/arts--craft.html or at the Habitat St. Charles ReStore located at 186 Mid Rivers Center, St. Peters, MO, 63376. For more information, contact Andrea Hughes at andrea@habitatstcharles.org Feb. 17: Pancake day St. Charles Kiwanis Pancake Day runs from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Blanchette Park. Cost for adults is $7, for seniors/children is $5. All you can eat and drink pancakes, sausage, coffee and milk. Tickets available at the door or from the following Kiwanians: Bruce Sowatsky, ticket chairman 636-9396200; American Family Insurance, Bob Davis at 2211 Droste Rd.; Goellner Printing, John Pallardy at 636-946-7088; AASP, Ron Reiling at 636-949-5990. Feb. 19: Nutrition Series Are you setting your body up for weight gain and not loss? Learn simple tips to avoid these traps. This one-hour seminar will help you understand the basics of sound nutrition and how macronutrients work to fuel the body. Class begins at 6:30 p.m. and is $8 for Wentzville residents and $10 for nonresidents. Please call Progress Park Recreation Center at 636-332-9236 for more information. Feb. 21: Adult Painting Class Red Hat Ladies! This is for you! Join Calise Thompson for this three-hour painting class. You will leave with a painting of a one-ofa-kind hat! This class is scheduled for 9 a.m. Cost is $25 for Wentzville residents and $30 for nonresidents. Registration is required. Please call Progress Park at 636332-9236 to sign-up. Feb. 21: Trivia night 7th Annual Progress South Elementary Trivia Night, doors
open at 6:30 p.m. at O’Fallon Elks Lodge. Cash and prizes awarded. More info at www.psepto.org. Feb. 21: Book signing Local author James K. Lehman will be signing copies of his new book, “Maneuvering Your Career” from 10 a.m. - noon at 6 North Café at 10 Cliff View Drive in Wentzville. For more information call 636-8568066 or visit www.6northcafe.com. Feb 21-22: Snowball tournament “Snowball” tournament will get you back into the swing of things before the season begins. This tournament will follow USSSA rules and all bats must be USSSA approved. The tournament will be held at Progress Park. Cost is $160 per team. All team members must be 16+. You may register by calling 636-332-9236. Feb. 22: Youth soccer registration deadline This six-week soccer league is offered for children of all abilities. Children will be placed on co-ed teams based on age. Children ages 3 – 10 are welcome. Participants will receive uniform, socks, soccer ball and an award at the end of the season. Game times vary each week beginning no earlier than 9 a.m. Games will begin March 21. Please register by calling 636-332-9236. Feb. 27: Trivia night The St. Charles Community College Employee Sponsored Program will host its annual trivia night to raise funds for scholarships, campus enhancements and employee support initiatives. Doors open at 6 p.m. and trivia starts at 7 p.m. The event will be held in the Daniel J. Conoyer Social Sciences Building Auditorium on the St. Charles Community College campus at 4601 Mid Rivers Mall Drive in Cottleville. Cost is $25 per person or $200 per table. For more information contact Peggy Schnardthorst at 636-922-8278, pschnardthorst@stchas.edu, or visit stchas.edu/trivia. Feb. 28: Dinner auction St. Theodore Church’s 27th Annual Dinner Auction is dubbed “A Night at the Races.” Viewing of items begins at 5 p.m. Dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m. For more information please call Jamie Hammond at 636-332-0494 or email jhammond205@gmail.com. Feb. 28: Book signing Author Becky Lewellen Povich will be signing copies of her book “From Pigtails to Chin Hairs: A Memoir and More” from 10 a.m. - noon at 6 North Café at 10 Cliff View Drive in Wentzville. For more information call 636-8568066 or visit www.6northcafe.com. Feb 28: Music concert Area resident, Rebekah Thoelke, will perform with the Concordia
University Chicago Concert Choir, Kapelle, as part of its annual U.S. tour. The concert will be held at Zion Lutheran Church at 3866 Harvester Road in St. Charles at 7:00pm. This event is part of the Music at Zion concert series for 2014-2015. For more information and directions, log on to www.zionharvester.org or contact Mark Thoelke, Director of Worship and Music at 636-441-7425. March 5: Kindergarten registration Fort Zumwalt School District kindergarten registration for the 2015-2016 school year takes place from 7:30 a.m. - 7 p.m. at the following schools: Fort Zumwalt Dardenne, Emge, Hawthorn, J. L. Mudd, Mid Rivers, Mount Hope, Ostmann, Pheasant Point, Progress South, Rock Creek, St. Peters, Twin Chimneys and Westhoff Elementary Schools. Registrations is for children who will be 5 years of age on or before July 31, 2015. March 7: Book signing Thistle and Clover invites you to come meet Frank Muhm, author of “Passage to 2838.” Frank will read from his book and sign copies from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Thistle and Clover is located at 407 South Main Street, in Saint Charles.
What’s Happening
the parks office at 636-755-5308.
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up, please contact Melissa at the parks office at 636-755-5308.
March 13: Art show Artists, St. Peters Cultural Arts Centre, located inside St. Peters City Hall at One St. Peters Centre Blvd. in St. Peters, invites you to be a part of the About Face all media art show and competition from March 13-May 4. The show is open to youth and adult, amateur and professional artists. Artwork must contain an element of the face. Prizes will be awarded. The cost to enter as an Arts Centre member is $15 for up to four pieces. Non-members can submit up to three pieces for $20. The youth entry fee is $5 per piece. Artwork will be received on March 10, from 9 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. The opening reception will take place on March 13, from 6 - 8 p.m. For more information on this show, call 636-397-6903, ext. 1624, or visit us online at www.stpetersmo.net.
March 28: The Bunny Run 5k & Cottontail Fun Run Put on your speed enhancing bunny ears and tie up your laces as you race around beautiful Rotary Park after the Easter Eggstravaganza! In addition to the Bunny Run 5k, we will have the Cottontail One Mile Fun Run/Walk. Registration starts at 3 p.m. and the race starts at 4 p.m. Cost is $35 per entrant if you sign up early and $45 on the day of the race. For more information please visit wentzvillemo.org or call Progress Park office at 636-332-9236. April 7: Community forum A panel of professionals will respond to questions about transportation needs and options in Franklin, Lincoln, Montgomery, St. Charles and Warren Counties from 6 – 8 p.m. at Pitman Reception Center at 1543 Wentzville Parkway in Wentzville. Please RSVP to Deana Tucker Dothage at ddothage@boonslick.org or by phone 636-359-4656. Visit www.morides.org for more information. Space is limited - reservations requested.
March 26: Educational seminar “Pizza and Preplanning” offered by Baue Funeral Home starts at 10 a.m. The event is free and will be held at Dardenne Prairie City Hall. Pizza and drinks will be served. For more information, or to sign
March 12: Educational seminar “Understanding Memory Loss” offered by Lutheran Senior Services starts at 10 a.m. The event is free and will be held at Dardenne Prairie City Hall. Coffee and muffins will be served. For more information, or to sign up, please contact Melissa at
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February 4, 2015 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
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PRAYER TO ST. JUDE
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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.
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Annual The 16th Fair Women’s , Fit will be Fun us! and Fabulo
Fair Women’s By Shelly A.
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July 11, 2007
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toes: floodwa ter and perman If you believe mosquitoes. ent water Floodwater ing problem you have a mosquito breedmosqui their eggs on damp soil where toes lay sure, please on your property, but will occur are not call the Departm flooding or, in some munity Hea ent of Comcases, above water line lth and the the in tree holes, Environme tainers, or nt. Ofartificial con- ficials will make an inspecti other small on and evaluabodies of water. tion appointment, When rain and then recomm fills these areas (ARA) and floods the possible solution. end a - National St. Charles County resident Friendship stages, broods can upload s have the of mosquitoes greatest prevention method Day is Aufingertips. a two-mintoes are mainly Proper maintens right at their gust 5 and - propert of the ance ute video pest y is the first variety, and the first to of the in light of emerge in the are step toward describ ing mosquito spring months prevention. All trash Many of these a recent and refuse that . mosquitoes how a close ers and may are strong flycould survey that range up to propert friend lights ten miles or more drained y should be adequately i n d i c ate s up their life graded and , a blood meal to prevent women any pools or to lay .....................3 water that may to www.ra puddles of r story............. eggs. last place high Cove County mosqui ten days or longer. diance ribtheir eggs directly ....................6 to v a l u e control officer ider.... McCauley lists on the water bons.com. Barry Shelly Schne several things 9 on , surface, their may do to homeowners cies in this Florissant ..........8 friendships, group do - their summekeep mosquitoes from test closes Old Olay is offering venture ruining theirTown r: breeding sites. not ..10,far11from a chance to Aug. treat themsel women Charles......... 31, ves with a trip to New Explore St. York City. in October. .................12 See MOSQUITO No Olay is hosting City . . . . ............ Town page 3 sary. For official purchase is neces........ a summer On the ......... called “Light . 414 contest www.ra contest rules, School . . Up Chamb .Gary . . . .Baute. Your visit dianceribbons. er. . . . . . ...... Life.” Women ts with ..... Religion 5 com.
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a grand tic entry into al beauty basas well as automa g – a person prize drawin JCPenney. y of ket courtes emiants nine mini-s fair gives participfrom including inforcare, nars to choose e, fitness, breast surexercis mation on and plastic nence, and urinary inconti al improvement person and bra fitting gery. Other topics include for holiday awareness “dos” “ups” and and the “spirit wardrobe, p made easy, hair, makeu
Movie Talk
Spor ..... ........ Cheese . . 16 7 . . . . ... ........ 6 ...... St. Peters........... Better You 9 ........ It’s About .. 17 ...... 10 2139 Bryan...................... Movie Review Valley Commer cial23Dr. • O’Fallon .22, , MO 63366 eds ...................... P: 636.379.1775
Classifi topics to ercial Dr. the spirit. Valley Comm sessions (threetime frame) 2139 Bryan Seminar MO 63366 during each O’Fallon, a.m., and 1:30 choose from 636-379-1632 s a.m., 10:40 9-1775 • FX: t begin at 9:30 P: 636-37 centurytel.ne 1:15 p.m. E-Mail: cnews@ and runs until - 2007 at 11:45 a.m. 8:30 a.m. page 17 Wonderland at Christmas in the lunTAINMENT Doors open Film Group’s See ENTER feature duringigh-energy Electra in Yari Carmen special and h A ea Chris Kattan lin. year will b cheon this Dan Cough by author page 3 presentation N’S FAIR See WOME
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COMMUNITY NEWS
COMMUNITY NEWS - St. Charles County
OUR TOWN MAGAZINE
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Wentzville and Lake St. Louis areas. It is direct mailed with
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plus online subscribers.
First published in 1921, Community News is the longest published weekly newspaper in the St. Louis metropolitan area and has established a large audience of loyal readers. Community News circulates across a broad geographic region with newstands, home throw and online subscription.
Published weekly with a powerful circulation combination of newsstands, home throw, and online subscription. The St. Charles County edition features countywide coverage including the cities of: St. Charles, St. Peters, Cottleville, Weldon Spring, O’Fallon, Dardenne Prairie, Lake St. Louis, and Wentzville, plus Troy.
This monthly lifestyle magazine covers the’N fast-growing Published bi-monthly, Our Town is direct mailed to all business Our FREE publications are available in over 500 convenient locations, including every Dierbergs, Schnucks and Shop Save. -
Vol 9 No 28
Missouri is home to about mosquitoes. Some live less 50 species of while others than may live several a week, months. Community Health and ment states the Environ it is only the female mosqui that “bites” and she does to so blood meal needed to lay to obtain the viable eggs. While mosqui more than drive toes usually do little the family from doors to the the outindoors, they carriers of are sometim dangerous es d isea may contrac t malaria, yellowses. Humans gue, and encepha fever, denlitis; and dogs heartworm. may get Most of these the exceptio diseases, with n of canine heartwo human encephalitis and rm, have been eliminated fairly well from Health officials the entire United States. said outbrea to borne encepha ks of mosqui litis have periodic occurred in ally Missou “Canine heartwori. rm is an problem, with endemic costs to ers escalatin animal owng each warned. “Effecti year,” health officials measures includinve mosquito control g the elimina swamp areas, tion of to keep road and maintenance efforts ditches clear have done and much to control water free mosquito for disease transmission.”
S LOU
Schneider
C o o li n g It
Shelly A. Schneid
FIT!FUN!
o busy, e it gets to to dies, befor is the time corner. La for you. Now ovement and take a day impr se for selffun in the set a cour and to have s self-awareness n will find the answer process! Wome health, family, career, ns on the 2007 at to questio , and more image, fashion – Fun, Fit, and FabuSt. Fair Nov. 17, at Women’s ay, for Saturd . lous – set unity College Charles Comm in partnership the college St. Joseph sented by ey and SSM take with JCPenn -Hospital West, will StuHealth Center a.m.-3 p.m. in the 8:30 Campus, 4601 place from on the SCC ille. dent Center in Cottlev Mall Drive the area Mid Rivers throughout reWomen from day of education, for a will gather and fun, includfood, laxation, prizes,eminars, a fashion show than 50 ing nine mini-s r, and more speake e ts and serand keynot ing produc vendors display vices. a continental seminars and and s exhibit a fashion tickets include urse cial $20 VIP speaker, and full-co e in show, keynot Grappa Grill and catered by luncheon st, exhibits, the breakfa consecutive addition to For the fourththe lunchtime seminars. ey will host ages year, JCPenn with styles for all fashion show,
Follow the se tips to kee p your family and pets safe from mosquitoes . Mosquito Sea son By
IN THIS ISSUE
St. Louis
P 636.379.1775 F 636.379.1632
r 14, 2007 Novembe 46 Vol. 86 No.
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February 4, 2015 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
Over the Fence
Joe Morice Oral anti-cancer drugs The recent news coverage of the state legislature’s bill to limit the cost of anti-cancer chemotherapy tablets beginning Jan. 1 seems to have left something out unless I missed it. Probably not their fault since they were hearing the current batch of Missouri legislators of dubious plunder. They did indeed pass this law to make the tablets affordable. According to many experts, they have less side effects and better results. However, it seems they didn’t make them affordable for Medicare patients, which purportedly consists of the majority of cancer victims. In other words, it was, “Let the federal government pay the outrageous prices” as heard from those same state legislators that hate taxes, to add a little irony. In this case, since the majority of cancer patients are insured by Medicare, this means the taxpayers are paying big while private medical insurers are billed at $75 per pill minus co-pays for less than half the patients. Since I’m one of those Medicare patients that have suffered through three different infusion cures over the years that produce some very unsettling side effects, I thought I’d try the chemo tablets since they were now affordable. Little did I know. My first offering of Revlimid had a co-pay of just under $3,000.
I had read three different news articles that raved passage of this new law to cap the outrageous prices of these tablets at $75 each. It was one of the few bills passed in years that would help middle and low income folks instead of whichever billionaires were throwing money around the state capital at the time. Until then, Revlimid was offered locally at just under $14,000 for 28 tablets. That’s four weeks worth at almost $500 per tabelt. I wonder if the producer of Revlimid’s CEO at Celgene can get along okay with his puny salary and benefits totaling $45,370,554? On a fixed income, there is no way I can pay for these tablets but then, I intensely dislike making pharmaceutical CEO’s richer at the expense of the sick and wounded. Some other pharmaceutical CEO’s are paid even more, the top being, $168,858,557 according to Paul Hodgson of Fortune’s website. Remember when the federal legislature passed a bill making it illegal for Americans to buy much cheaper prescription drugs from Canada? Remember when pharmaceuticals started changing the names and shapes of their tablets to forestall letting them become generic? To be fair, their alleged 800 percent average profit margins are for research and development. I remain unsure if it includes limo service and private jets for the researchers, FDA officials, off-shore bankers and etc.
If I seem sarcastic in this diatribe, I apologize. However, American pharmaceuticals, with all their expertise in creating great drugs, seem to have even greater expertise in creating huge profits by preying on U.S. citizens in need of prescription medicines. Of course, it’s the same expertise enjoyed by many other large corporations that have tentacles inside state and U.S. legislatures. Robert Hugin, the CEO of Celgene, who‘s also on boards of several other corporations for even more salary and benefits, allegedly has an MBA from the University of Virginia and an AB degree from Princeton. I couldn’t find any degrees relating to pharmaceuticals. This is often the case of giant corporations in these days of corporate plundering. The CEO’s with huge salaries and benefits sit on the boards of other corporations with CEO’s enjoying the same. Seldom do we find hands-on expertise in the actual products or services they render. We almost always find expertise in awarding each other with huge salaries and benefits. Joe Morice is Community News’s blue-collar philosopher. He was born and raised in Missouri and spent most of his childhood on a farm and adulthood operating heavy equipment. He has no formal training as a writer, unless a lifetime of writing about any and everything counts. The opinions expressed in this column are Joe Morice’s alone and do not reflect the opinion of the owners or staff of Community News.
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