O’Fallon Update The Official Quarterly Publication of the City of O’Fallon, Missouri Summer 2012 • www.ofallon.mo.us
Help available for O’Fallon’s low-income homeowners Could you use an extra $5,000 to help with home repairs? Projects like replacing an aging heating/cooling unit, repairing a roof or replacing windows are a few of the eligible repairs for O'Fallon's Home Improvement Loan Program. Low- to moderate-income homeowners may apply for a five-year forgivable loan of up to $5,000 to address City code violations and make home improvements. More information about O'Fallon's Home Improvement Loan Program is available at www.ofallon.mo.us/Grants. Or, call 636379-5411, or email jhawkins@ofallon.mo.us.
In this issue 3
Heritage & Freedom Fest
6
Upcoming Events
8
Police Bulletins
9
Roscoe’s Den
10 Senior Corner
Heritage & Freedom Fest highlights a summer of entertainment
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t’s time to join your neighbors and celebrate America at the annual Heritage & Freedom Fest on July 2 – 4 at the Ozzie Smith Sports Complex. This year’s event will again feature great music, fun shows, carnival rides, free activities for the kids and spectacular fireworks displays. On July 4th, we’ll start the day off with one of my favorite events of all, the Heritage & Freedom Fest Parade. There’s nothing quite like looking down Main Street and Tom Ginnever Avenue and seeing the throngs of people clad in red, white and blue, waving flags and cheering as the floats pass. Check out page 3 for all of the details on this year’s event. Of course, there’s a whole lot more going on this summer in O’Fallon. The River City Rascals are back in action with affordable tickets, lower concession prices and lots of great giveaways. There’s no better way to spend a relaxing summer night. Don’t forget to try one of my special “Mayor Bill’s Big Dogs” the next time you are out at T.R. Hughes Ballpark. Tuesday nights are filled with music at the free Jammin’ concerts in Civic Park. Each week features a great local band, so check out the schedule on page 25 in the Parks & Rec Guide and bring your lawn chair out to the hill for an evening of great music. O’Fallon’s parks are looking better than ever too. Brendan’s Playground in Westhoff Park already is the best playground in the area, and it’s about to get better as we complete a new splash pad this summer. And, Alligator’s Creek Aquatic Center is open all summer long if you need to cool off. You can find it all here in the “O,” so get out and have a great time all summer long! And, please remember to shop your local O’Fallon retailers and restaurants. They make all of these great events possible.
Bill Hennessy, Mayor
Brendan’s Playground gets new splash pad Brendan’s Playground in Westhoff Park has quickly become one of the most popular places for children in the entire City of O’Fallon, and now, it’s getting “cooler.” Work already has begun on a new splash pad at the playground. Kids of all ages will be able to cool off on those hot summer afternoons without ever leaving the playground. The splash pad should be open in just a few weeks.
11 Focus on O’Fallon 12 City Calendar
See reverse for Summer Parks & Rec Guide
Elected Officials
Mayor Bill Hennessy 636-379-5500 bhennessy@ofallon.mo.us
Ward 1 Councilmembers Bill Gardner 636-379-5581 bgardner@ofallon.mo.us
Rick Lucas 636-379-5582 rlucas@ofallon.mo.us
Ward 2 Councilmembers Rose Mack 636-379-5591 rmack@ofallon.mo.us
Jim Pepper 636-379-5583 jpepper@ofallon.mo.us
Ward 3 Councilmembers Richard “Rick” Battelle 636-379-5586 rbattelle@ofallon.mo.us
John Haman, Jr. 636-379-5585 jhaman@ofallon.mo.us
Ward 4 Councilmembers Bob Howell 636-379-5587 bhowell@ofallon.mo.us
Jeff Schwentker 636-379-5580 jschwentker@ofallon.mo.us
Ward 5 Councilmembers Mike Pheney 636-379-5584 mpheney@ofallon.mo.us
Michael Snowden
Helpful Numbers
636-379-5588 msnowden@ofallon.mo.us
Citizens First Center 636-379-5553
City Hall 636-240-2000
Police (Non-emergency) 636-240-3200
O’Fallon Senior Center 636-272-4180
Trash and Recycling 636-272-0477
O’Fallon Water & Sewer 636-281-2858
Utility bills merged; O’Fallon Water and Sewer office moved to City Hall With the recent consolidation of O’Fallon’s water, sewer and trash billing, residents now will receive only one bill for all of their City of O’Fallon utility bills. These bills can be paid online at www.ofallon.mo.us, via mail or in person at the O’Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall). The former O’Fallon Water and Sewer offices on Elm Street have been closed and moved to City Hall, so residents can pay everything in one place.
O’Fallon welcomes Mike Hurlbert as Economic Development Director Michael Hurlbert has joined O’Fallon’s staff as the Economic Development Director. He brings nearly 20 years of experience in economic development, real estate, planning and project management to O’Fallon. He previously has worked at the firm of Peckham, Guyton, Albers & Viets, Inc. (PGAV), where he served as Senior Project Manager since September 2008; as a Planner and Economic Development Administrator for the City of Creve Coeur; and as a Project Planner for the City of Chesterfield. He also has held other private sector positions in real estate. “To have an opportunity to represent the City of O’Fallon is a tremendous honor,” said Mike Hurlbert. “On a personal level, I really feel like this position is bringing my career full circle. My family moved to St. Charles County many years ago so my father could work in O’Fallon. Later, I started my career working on projects in and around the City. I have seen this area grow from a small community of about 15,000 people to one of ‘America’s Best Places to Live’ and one of the largest cities in the State of Missouri. I am also excited to work with the City staff, the elected officials, the Chamber of Commerce and the vibrant business community to continue to expand and support O’Fallon’s great quality of life.” Mr. Hurlbert holds a Master of Arts degree in Urban Affairs from Saint Louis University and a Bachelor of Arts in Business Management. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Planners, the American Planning Association (APA) and the APA’s Economic Development Division.
Festival District declared for July 2, 3 and 4 Residents living near the festival grounds can view information about road closings and other restrictions online at www.heritageandfreedomfest.com. Or contact the City Clerk at 636379-5555 for more information.
28th Annual Firecracker Run Wednesday, July 4, 7 a.m. The O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce is proud to host the 28th Annual USATF-Certified Firecracker Run at T.R. Hughes Ballpark. Visit www.ofallonchamber.org/firecracker to register for the 10K, 5K and 1-mile Fun Run/Walk.
Media Center Get the most up-to-date news in your inbox Stay connected to O’Fallon with the electronic version of the O’Fallon Update. These weekly emails will keep you informed on the latest news, events and information about your hometown. And, it’s all free! Just go to www.ofallon.mo.us and enter your email address in the registration box. All the latest news is only a click away.
Celebrate freedom!
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www.heritageandfreedomfest.com
Celebrate America’s birthday with an explosion of fun and music at O’Fallon’s Heritage & Freedom Fest
Monday, July 2 • “Family Night” 5 – 10 p.m. Carnival and midway open. No fireworks.
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’Fallon’s 2012 Heritage & Freedom Fest at the Ozzie Smith Sports Complex will open with a colorful carnival on July 2 and go out with a bang on July 3 and 4.
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On Monday July 2, from 5 – 10 p.m., the carnival will be the focus of the evening with exciting rides for all ages and a colorful midway. On Tuesday and Wednesday, the Freedom Fest will become the greatest show in St. Charles County, with nationallyrecognized musicians and a grand celebration. Enjoy family-friendly side shows, free kids’ activities, carnival rides, crafters and vendors, festival food and beverages, and fireworks lighting up the night sky. Admission is free, and free parking and shuttle service will be provided on Tuesday and Wednesday.
O’Fallon’s Heritage & Freedom Fest Parade Wednesday, July 4, 9:30 a.m. Dress in red, white and blue and join the crowd along Main Street and Tom Ginnever Avenue in cheering for the largest, most patriotic Independence Day parade in St. Charles County. Prizes and trophies will be awarded for parade entries which best exemplify the theme, “Salute Our American Heritage.” The 2.1 mile parade route begins at the corner of Main and Third Streets, heads north on Main Street, turns east on Tom Ginnever Avenue, and ends at T.R. Hughes Boulevard near the festival grounds.
Tuesday, July 3 5 – 11 p.m.
5:00 – 6:00
Borderline
6:30 – 7:45
Jamie O’Neal
8:45 – 10:15
David Nail
10:15 Jena “Dusty” Mielke Fireworks Spectacular
Wednesday, July 4 Noon – 10 p.m.
2:15 – 4:45
Fat Pocket
4:45
Parade awards
5:45 – 7:00
Carolina Liar
8:00 – 9:30
Vertical Horizon
9:30 Jena “Dusty” Mielke Fireworks Spectacular The Jena “Dusty” Mielke Fireworks Spectacular is presented by
Get a discount on carnival tickets Save time and money by purchasing carnival tickets in advance at 50% off. The half-price tickets will be good July 2 – 4, and will be sold June 11 – 30 at the Renaud Spirit Center and at the O’Fallon Parks and Recreation office. Ride tickets are non-refundable.
Get involved in the fun!
Please note, T.R. Hughes Boulevard and Cool Springs Industrial Drive will temporarily close for one hour before fireworks shows.
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Be a part of the festival as a volunteer! Contact Volunteer Services at volunteer@ofallon.mo.us or 636-379-5507.
heritageandfreedomfest.com Summer 2012
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Heritage & Freedom Fest V+
www.heritageandfreedomfest.com
Monday night, July 2, 5 – 10 p.m.
Rock ‘n Roll dominates the Main Stage on Wednesday
With the carnival and midway the focus of this special evening, it’s a perfect time for families to go on rides together, play carnival games on the midway, and snack on funnel cakes, cotton candy, hotdogs, snow cones and other treats. Unlimited ride wristbands will be available for Special Family Night only, and must be purchased on-site.
On July 4, shake, rattle and rock on to the music of two great alternative bands. Carolina Liar (“I’m Not Over,” “Show Me What I’m Looking For”) will open for festival headliner Vertical Horizon (“Everything You Want,” “Best I Ever Had”). Popular regional band Fat Pocket will perform music throughout the afternoon.
Special Family Night at the carnival
Music, fireworks, entertainment, fun! Tuesday, July 3, 5 – 11 p.m. Wednesday, July 4, noon – 10 p.m. Hear David Nail, Vertical Horizon, Jamie O’Neal, and Carolina Liar in concert, free, at the 2012 Heritage & Freedom Fest. Bring a lawn chair or blanket for seating around the Main Stage, and listen to great music followed by spectacular fireworks displays after the final concert.
Tuesday night is country music night with Grammynominated stars Country superstar David Nail and country vocalist Jamie O’Neal will perform on July 3. Missourian David Nail is best known for the hit song “Red Light” and the 2011 Grammy-nominated “Turning Home.” His newest hit, “Let It Rain,” topped the Hot Country charts this year. Vocalist-songwriter and three-time Grammy nominee Jamie O’Neal will open for Nail. Fan favorites include the songs “There is No Arizona,” “When I Think about Angels” and “Somebody’s Hero.” High-energy country band Borderline will open Tuesday’s show. David Nail Jamie O'Neal
Vertical Horizon Carolina Liar
The Marvelous Mutts – A Canine Spectacular July 3, show times at 6, 7:30 and 9 p.m. July 4, show times at 3, 5, and 7 p.m. Did you know that some dogs can fly? Rescued from animal shelters and trained to compete as sports dogs, the athletic Marvelous Mutts love to entertain, defying gravity as they soar into the air after balls and Frisbees, fly (almost) through obstacle courses at top speed, perform tricks and interact with the audience. Don’t miss this thrilling, jaw-dropping canine spectacular. More at www.themarvelousmutts.com .
Kids’ Area – Free! July 3, 5 – 9:45 p.m. July 4, noon – 9 p.m. Enjoy hours of free family fun in the Kids’ Area, with giant inflatables for kids to romp on, a Graffiti Wall for creative writing and drawing, games, crafts and educational fun, too.
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Fun continues in the Kids’ Area Nitro Joe Science Booth Nitro Joe’s dazzling experiments show kids and adults just how fun and exciting science can be. Catch the demonstrations throughout both days whenever the Kids’ Area is open.
Hoop Connections Kids and parents, too, can “hoop it up” on Wednesday from 4 – 9 p.m. and learn how to twirl modern versions of the hula hoop.
Parking at Heritage & Freedom Fest General parking – Free parking is available at Fort Zumwalt North and Christian high schools (off Tom Ginnever Avenue). Air-conditioned buses will shuttle patrons to a drop-off point near the festival grounds. Premium parking – Want a “prime” parking spot? Park at the T.R. Hughes west parking lot and enjoy the festivities without the hassle. Available on July 3 and 4, only, the cost is $5 on a first-come, first-served basis. Disabled parking only at Westhoff Park – Disabled patrons are invited to take advantage of parking at Westhoff Park with a free shuttle to the festival entrance. A handicapped license plate or tag must be displayed for admission—no general parking will be allowed at this lot. There will be no disabled parking and shuttle service available at other parking lots.
Hone your fishing skills with the expert outfitters from Cabela’s at the free catch and release pond. Always wanted to fish, but never tried the sport? No worries, they will even bait the hook!
Tips for enjoying the festival July is typically hot and humid, so dress for comfort, drink fluids and use sunscreen. For relief from the heat, step into the air-conditioned Heat Relief Tent. Paramedics and an ambulance will be near the festival entrance to assist with overheating or injuries. Please do not bring:
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Fireworks
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Bikes, skateboards, motorized coolers or scooters, skates or rollerblades. These items cannot be ridden on festival grounds.
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Glass containers of any kind
Pets or animals, except service animals such as seeing-eye dogs
Guns or weapons of any kind Coolers are permitted but they are subject to search by police officers, park rangers and parks personnel.
Thank you for recycling!
Thank you, 2012 Heritage & Freedom Fest sponsors!
A Better Pizza AFB International Arrowhead Landscaping Bank of Old Monroe Blue Sky Café Cabela’s Chick-fil-A Community News Culligan Water Curtis, Heinz, Garrett & O’Keefe Great Southern Bank Jeremy’s Market & Meats Madison’s Café Marshall Ford Noll’s Restaurant & Lounge O’Fallon Brewery Pantera’s Pizza Papa John’s Pizza PROformance Signs & Graphics Sno-Biz Rendezvous Café & Wine Bar River City Rascals White Auto Body
Upcoming Events www.ofallon.mo.us/Events O’Fallon Jammin’ Outdoor Concert Series
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Tuesdays, June through August 6:30 – 9 p.m., Civic Park Bandstand – Free! New hours! Concerts start one hour later this year. Bring along chairs or blankets for lawn seating around the bandstand and listen or dance to different bands and genres at each concert, including rock and roll, country, rhythm and blues, Motown, pops, Big Band, swing, jazz, and Broadway show tunes. Concessions will be available, and an ADA-accessible kids’ playground and restrooms are nearby. To view the full band schedule visit page 25 in the Parks & Rec Guide or go to www. ofallon.mo.us/Jammin .
Enjoy the competition at Alligator’s Creek Aquatics Center 3rd Annual Cardboard Boat Race Sunday, July 8 4 – 6 p.m., Alligator's Creek It’s Shipwrecked Pirate Day at Alligator’s Creek Aquatic Center. Make a two-person boat out of cardboard and duct tape, bring it to Alligator’s Creek and race across the pool for prizes. Pay daily admission to get in (with or without a boat). Race entry fee is $8. For more contest details, see page 8 of the Parks & Rec Guide on the reverse side of this newsletter.
10th Annual Alligator’s Creek Triathlon
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Sunday, August 19 7 a.m. – 1 p.m. Swim, bike and run for a morning of fun right here in O’Fallon. For details, turn to page 8 of the Parks & Rec Guide on the reverse side of this newsletter, or visit www.ofallon.mo.us/ ParksandRec/Triathlon . V+ Pool Paws Dog Swim at Alligator’s Creek, Bone Hunt in Civic Park Saturday, September 8 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Tour the O’Fallon Historical Society Log Cabin Museum 2nd, 4th Sundays through September 12 – 3 p.m., Civic Park Open June 24, July 8 and 22, August 12 and 26, and September 9 and 23 Meet and chat with the people who know O’Fallon’s history best as you tour the log cabin museum. Admission is free; donations are welcome. The museum’s collection of O’Fallon artifacts includes a doll-house sized replica of Zumwalt’s Fort, Wabash Railroad items, 19th Century clothing, an immigrant’s trunk, a folding bed for covered wagon travel, small town business items and more. A history book, O’Fallon, Missouri: A Good Place to Live is available for purchase. Tours also are available by appointment by contacting info@ofallonmohistory.org . For more information, visit www.ofallonmohistory.org .
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O’Fallon Update City of O’Fallon Newsletter
Have fun with your dog, win prizes and enjoy socializing with other dog owners. More details on page 9 of the Parks & Rec Guide.
Heroes of Summer Volunteer Donor Blood Drive
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Friday, July 13 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., O'Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall) Your life-saving help is needed! Blood banks tend to run low in the summer, but the need is as high as ever. Please donate and keep local blood bank supplies ready to meet the need for blood due to accidents, surgeries, chronic illness and other emergencies. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments help speed the donation process. The blood drive is sponsored by the Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center and the City of O’Fallon. Contact Volunteer Services at 636-379-5507 or volunteer@ofallon.mo.us .
Bluegrass Concert and Ice Cream Social
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Saturday, July 28 5 – 7 p.m., Fort Zumwalt Park – Free! Bring a blanket or lawn chair and listen to George Portz and the Friends of Bluegrass perform outside the Historic Heald Home. Free ice cream! Tours of the historic Heald house will be available at $2 per person.
Patriotic Ceremonies National Day of Service and Remembrance
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Saturday, September 8 O’Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall) Sign up for projects in honor of the heroes and in memory of the victims of the attacks of September 11, 2001. Contact Volunteer Services at 636-379-5507 or volunteer@ofallon. mo.us to inquire about the following:
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Remembrance Walk, 9 – 9:30 a.m.
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Blood Drive, 9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. (Appointments encouraged.)
Citizens United in Service, 9:30 a.m. – noon (Projects supporting First Responders)
Patriot Day Ceremony Tuesday, September 11 8:30 a.m., Outside the O’Fallon Police Department Everyone is invited to attend this stirring ceremony honoring first responders and remembering the victims of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.
Taste German Wines at the Heald Home
POW/MIA Remembrance Day Ceremony
Saturday, August 4 2 – 4 p.m., Fort Zumwalt Park
Friday, September 21 7 p.m., O’Fallon Veterans Memorial Walk
With architectural features influenced by local German culture, the historic Heald Home offers an atmospheric retreat for an afternoon of sampling German wines and finger foods provided by Rendezvous Café and Wine Bar. Learn how to distinguish the different categories of German wines and test your knowledge with a trivia game. Please register in advance for this program by calling 636-379-5606; the cost is $8 for residents and $10 for non-residents. The registration deadline is Friday, July 13.
Join in a candlelight ceremony honoring and remembering the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces who remain missing in action or imprisoned on foreign soil.
Pirate Treasure Hunt
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Fall Fest Street Dance Friday, October 12, 5 – 10 p.m. Civic Park Drive – Free admission and parking Local rock band Contagious headlines the entertainment. Concessions will be available at a nominal fee.
Saturday, September 15 2 – 4 p.m., Fort Zumwalt Park
28th Annual Fall Fest
Sign up for this outstanding pirate-themed hunt for treasure hidden in Fort Zumwalt Park. To get you started, you’ll get a clue and then navigate to hidden locations for additional clues and activities, and a puzzle piece, too. When you find all the pieces, put them together to zero in on the hidden treasure. The cost is $5 for residents and $7 for non-residents. The registration deadline is Friday, August 24.
Enjoy live music and entertainment, kids’ activities, shopping at arts, crafts, and specialty booths, and festival food and beverages, too. Artists and crafters are invited to apply for booth space. Visit www.ofallon.mo.us/FallFest for details.
V+ indicates opportunities for volunteers.
Contact Volunteer Services at 636-379-5507 or volunteer@ofallon.mo.us.
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Saturday, October 13, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Civic Park – Free admission and parking
10th Annual Fall Fest 5K Fun Run
V+ Saturday, October 13 7:30 – 8:30 a.m., Start/finish at Municipal Centre (City Hall) Set your own pace in this 5K (3.1 mile) run/walk for all ages. Cost varies from $13 to $20. Register online at www.ofallon. mo.us/FallFest5K or call 636-379-5606.
www.ofallon.mo.us Summer 2012
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Police Bulletins O'Fallon Police Department Briefs Lost a pet? Whether you’ve lost a pet, found a stray, or have a wildlife concern, the O’Fallon Police Department’s Animal Control Division offers several options that can help.
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Leave a voice message describing the problem by calling 636-240-3200; press 1 for Animal Control/Dispatch
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Check www.facebook.com/ofallonanimalcontrol to see if a lost pet has been picked up.
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Get information about reclaiming an impounded pet and City animal control ordinances and procedures at www. ofallon.mo.us/PD .
Adopt a stray dog or cat Take your pick of dogs, cats, kittens and puppies in need of homes at Animal Talk Medical Center, the veterinarian facility that houses strays and unwanted animals picked up by O’Fallon’s Animal Control Division. When strays are not claimed by their owners, they are put up for adoption for a limited time. To see photos of adoptable pets online, visit Animal Talk Medical Center on Facebook. Or, go to Craigslist at http:// stlouis.craigslist.org/pet and then search for “Animal Talk.” The facility is located at 12678 Veterans Memorial Parkway in Wentzville. To visit one-on-one with adoptable animals, call 636-332-5900. To adopt a pet, you must be at least 18, possess a valid driver’s license and pay a flat fee that covers spaying or neutering, all vaccinations and a microchip implant. Nonhomeowners also need permission from their landlords or the home’s legal owner(s).
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www.ofallon.mo.us/PD
Sign up for free disaster preparedness training to be held in September If a natural disaster or fire should strike your home or neighborhood, would you know what to do? Learn how to take care of your home, family and much more with a free course, the O’Fallon Police Department’s Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training, which will be held September 21 – 23. The hands-on training, which is also available for community groups, takes place on Friday 6 – 10 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Topics include:
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Disaster preparedness Fire safety Disaster medical operations; assessing and treating injuries Light search and rescue Team organization Disaster psychology Terrorism and CERT Final exercise
For additional information, visit www.ofallon.mo.us/PD/ CERT . To register, contact Police Officer Andrew Stowers at 636-379-5686, or astowers@ofallon.mo.us .
Roscoe’s Den Trash and Recycling Announcements Tree limb disposal for residents If a summer storm causes branches to break off in your yard, O’Fallon residents have several options to help dispose of debris. Residents enrolled in O’Fallon’s yard waste program can bundle up the branches and leave them at the curb on their regularly-scheduled yard waste collection day. Residents who are not enrolled in the program can schedule a one-time pickup by calling Customer Service at 636-272-0477. One-time pickups cost $2 per bundle with a minimum of $20 for collection. The service is available for any type of yard waste. Also, residents not currently enrolled can sign up for yard waste collection at any time by contacting Customer Service. To make it easy for staff to handle the branches:
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Limbs cannot be any larger than 6 inches in diameter
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The bundles must not be larger than 2 feet in diameter.
Limbs must be cut down to 4 feet or less in length Branches must be tied in bundles with twine (no wire, please!)
Finally, residents can call Hansen’s Tree Service at 636379-1830 to schedule a drop off for their yard waste. Currently, Hansen’s charges 50 cents per bag or bundle or $8 per cubic yard of yard waste.
Roscoe’s Tip: Recycling saves you money. Whenever you and your family recycle cans, bottles, paper and boxes, you save our City money and keep your trash bills low.
www.ofallon.mo.us/Green
Fourth of July and Labor Day trash collection moves to next-day service O’Fallon’s trash and recycling collection will move to nextday service for the remainder of the Fourth of July and Labor Day holiday week. Service for Wednesday, July 4, will move to Thursday, and so on through the week. Service for Monday, September 3 (Labor Day) will move to Tuesday, and so on.
Bring large items to the Bulk Item Drop-Off in August, free O’Fallon residents are invited to bring acceptable items that are too large to fit into trash containers to the City’s waste transfer station at 1572 Progress West Lane between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, August 18 and 19. The service is free to O’Fallon residents with a valid photo ID and who are current on their trash/recycling bill. Please note that some items cannot be accepted by law, such as yard waste. Before bringing items to the drop off, please check www.ofallon.mo.us/ES for a list of acceptable and unacceptable goods. Residents also can choose to have many large items picked up at the curb year-round by calling Environmental Services at 636-272-0477, or contacting staff by email at ofallonrecycles@ ofallon.mo.us. Cost of the service is $20 per truck load for curbside collection.
St. Charles County offers hazardous household waste disposal options Did you know that St. Charles County residents, including O’Fallon residents, have additional options for disposal of unwanted items? The list includes fluorescent light tubes (unbroken), electronics, expanded Styrofoam packaging (“peanuts”), household hazardous waste, and automotive waste. Please visit the County’s website at www.scchealth. org/docs/es for hours, dates, maps, and a comprehensive list of accepted items that can be brought to the County’s recycling facilities.
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Recycle Works West 2110 East Pitman Avenue, Wentzville, MO 63385
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Recycle Works Central 60 Triad South Drive, St. Charles, MO 63304
Or, call 636-949-7415 weekdays.
www.ofallon.mo.us Summer 2012
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Project O’Fallon
Prescription Drug “Take-Back” Program Does your medicine cabinet contain expired or unwanted medications? If so, please take the time to drop the medicines off at O’Fallon’s prescription drug “take-back” drop box in the Police Department lobby between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. The Police Department will see they are promptly and properly destroyed. This helps protect the environment by keeping the drugs out of landfills or from being flushed into the water system. It also keeps the drugs out of the hands of others, including children. O’Fallon’s drop box helps residents dispose of unwanted medications responsibly and conveniently, at no charge and with no questions asked. For safety reasons, please do not use the drop box to discard sharp objects such as needles, or biohazardous materials.
Patriotic party at the Senior Center With the Fourth of July coming up, the O’Fallon Senior Center is having a patriotic party from 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. on Friday, June 29. Doors open at 9 a.m. The party features games and activities, with music by John Scott playing all your favorite country and western tunes from the 1940s – 1980s. The party is free to residents ages 60 and older. Call 636-272-4180 to make reservations to stay for an allAmerican barbecue lunch. The suggested donation for lunch is $3.25.
4th Annual St. Charles County Senior Fair
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Saturday, October 6 9 a.m. – noon, O’Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall) Mark your calendars for a great free event for seniors! Seniors and family members are invited to hear speakers on Medicare benefits, veterans’ benefits, services provided by the MidEast Area Agency on Aging and other helpful topics. The fair includes games, raffles and snacks, health screenings, fitness programs, and flu and pneumonia shots. The fair is co-hosted by the City of O’Fallon and the City of St. Peters.
Have a concern or question for the City? Visit the Citizens First Center at www. ofallon.mo.us/CFC or call 636-379-5553.
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O’Fallon Update City of O’Fallon Newsletter
Annual Slab Repair and Asphalt Overlay Program underway Keep an eye out in O’Fallon subdivisions for City crews and local contractors making repairs to local streets. Through the City of O’Fallon’s asphalt overlay and concrete slab repair programs, crews will repair more than 60,000 square yards of O’Fallon roads. For more details on where crews will be each week, check out the O’Fallon Project Management Website at www.ofallon. mo.us/projects .
New bike lanes to form 10-mile bike route Crews are adding nearly 10 miles of on-street bicycle lanes to four of O’Fallon’s busiest streets this summer. The Southside Bicycle Loop will allow for safe and easy access to many of O’Fallon’s largest neighborhoods and employers, so residents can safely ride their bikes to work or the store. The Southside Loop will start at Highway K and the 364 Outer Road, extend south along Highway K to Technology Drive, proceed west to WingHaven, head north to the 364 Outer Road and turn east back to Highway K. When completed, the Loop will cover approximately 10 miles. 364 Outer Road
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WingHaven Blvd.
Senior Corner
K Southside Bicycle Loop
Tec
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Pearl Drive water main extension complete Crews have completed a new water main extension in the northeast quadrant of the City. The new water line added more than 3,000 feet of water main, which will virtually eliminate shut downs of the water supply in this area. Prior to the construction of this line, occasional water main breaks along the area’s older mains would cause the water in the vicinity to be shut down for short periods of time, inconveniencing local residents and businesses.
Communications Director • Tom Drabelle • tdrabelle@ofallon.mo.us Staff Writer • Peggy Whetzel • pwhetzel@ofallon.mo.us Web and Design Administrator • Bryan Wieczorek • bwieczorek@ofallon.mo.us
Focus on O'Fallon • O'Fallon Update Special Feature
O’Fallon’s Community Concert Band celebrates 25 years of music and fun By Peggy Whetzel, Staff Writer
F
or 25 years, the O’Fallon Community Concert Band has filled the air in City parks with melodies by famous composers, including John Philip Sousa’s marches, Benny Goodman’s jazz and swing, and John Williams’ overtures for the Star Wars, Indiana Jones and Harry Potter films. The community band got its start in 1988 under two directors, Gary Brandes and Rob Duss. In 1996, they handed the conductor’s baton to Gene Garza, a veteran who served with the 33rd U.S. Army Band in Europe. Garza started the O’Fallon Jazz Band and also plays in several other area bands and orchestras. Under Garza’s leadership, O’Fallon’s Community Concert Band attracts 40 – 55 members who rehearse weekly from spring to fall, give free concerts in Civic Park, and perform patriotic selections in the Heritage & Freedom Fest Parade and at O’Fallon Veterans Memorial Walk ceremonies. What keeps the band going? “I love to play, and we have lots of fun,” says Stephanie Frosch of O’Fallon. From grade school on, she’s performed in various bands and orchestras. She plays flute for the O’Fallon concert band and her church band, and gives private lessons. “I’ve made some good friends in the band, and it’s a relaxed atmosphere. Gene picks some interesting and usually fun music. Every year we do some sort of theme music
from movies or a musical, and Gene will dress up for it.” She recalls Garza conducting the band dressed as Indiana Jones. Last year, he donned pirate headgear in honor of Pirates of the Caribbean. Band members say they particularly enjoy performing a range of musical genres. “Gene does a good job of selecting a variety of music, everything from swing to classical to show tunes,” said Kevin Mullins, also an O’Fallon resident. “It’s challenging and fun to play.” Mullins began piano and trombone lessons in grade school, played throughout high school and studied music in college. Currently, he plays trombone with the O’Fallon concert band, plus several other community bands and the St. Charles County Symphony Orchestra. One of the band’s signature arrangements is “Instant Concert,” billed as 34 songs played in three minutes and 10 seconds. “I sometimes catch myself whistling the tunes, especially over the winter when we are on break and I’m itching to play,” said Frosch. For a performance schedule and more information about O’Fallon’s Community Concert Band, visit www. ofallon.mo.us/ParksandRec/bands .
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Calendar
All public meetings and Municipal Court proceedings are held at O’Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall), 100 North Main Street, unless otherwise noted.
www.ofallon.mo.us/Events
June
20
Blank Canvas Exhibit Cultural Arts Gallery in the RSC, through Aug. 31
City Council, 7:30 p.m., workshop, 5:30 p.m.
24
Jammin’ concert with Seven Bridges Road, 6:30 – 9 p.m.
18
Veterans Commission, 7 p.m.
25
Municipal Court, 9 a.m.
19
Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council, 5:30 p.m.
O’Fallon Convention & Visitors Bureau, 5 p.m.
Jammin’ concert with The Others, 6:30 – 9 p.m.
26
City Council, 7:30 p.m., workshop, 5:30 p.m.
20
Municipal Court, 9 a.m.
Senior Advisory Committee, 2:30 p.m.
28
Bluegrass concert and Ice Cream Social, 5 – 7 p.m. Historic Heald Home, free
Public Works Commission, 7 p.m.
30
Municipal Court, 6 p.m.
31
O’Fallon Jazz & Community Concert bands, 6:30 – 9 p.m. Civic Park bandstand, free
14
23-24 Family Camping Night, 6 p.m. – 10 a.m. Fort Zumwalt Park 25
Municipal Court, 6 p.m.
26
O’Fallon Jazz & Community Concert bands, 6:30 – 9 p.m. Civic Park bandstand, free
28
City Council, 7:30 p.m., workshop, 5:30 p.m.
July 2
Family Night, Heritage & Freedom Fest, 5 – 10 p.m. Ozzie Smith Sports Complex, free
3
Heritage & Freedom Fest, 5 – 11 p.m. Ozzie Smith Sports Complex, free
4
August 1-31 Exhibit: “Blank Canvas,” mixed media Cultural Arts Gallery in the RSC 1
Advisory Green Council, 5 p.m.
2
Planning and Zoning Commission, 7 p.m.
4
Wine and Cheese Tasting 2 – 4 p.m. Historic Heald Home, $10 per person
7
Jammin’ concert with Ticket to The Beatles, 6:30 – 9 p.m.
8
Municipal Court, 9 a.m.
Heritage & Freedom Fest Parade, 9:30 a.m. Main Street to Tom Ginnever and T.R. Hughes Blvd.
Board of Adjustment, 5:30 p.m.
9
City Council, 7:30 p.m., workshop, 5:30 p.m.
Heritage & Freedom Fest, noon – 10 p.m. Ozzie Smith Sports Complex, free
12
Auditions for Steel Magnolias, noon, City Hall
13
Municipal Court, 6 p.m.
City Hall and Renaud Spirit Center CLOSED (holiday)
14
Parks Board, 7 p.m.
Alligator’s Creek OPEN noon – 5 p.m.
Jammin’ concert with Stray Bullet, 6:30 – 9 p.m.
5
Planning and Zoning Commission, 7 p.m.
15
Senior Advisory Committee, 2:30 p.m.
8
3rd annual Cardboard Boat Race, 4 – 6 p.m. Alligator’s Creek Aquatic Center
Public Works Commission, 7 p.m.
10
Parks Board, 7 p.m.
17
Veterans Commission, 7 p.m.
Jammin’ concert with Well Hungarians, 6:30 – 9 p.m.
18
Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council, 5:30 p.m.
11
Municipal Court, 9 a.m.
18-19 Free Bulk Waste Drop off, 7 a.m. – 3 p.m. O’Fallon waste transfer station, 1572 Progress West Ln.
Board of Adjustment, 5:30 p.m.
19
Alligator’s Creek Triathlon, 7 a.m. – 1 p.m., Civic Park
12
City Council, 7:30 p.m., workshop, 5:30 p.m.
21
Jammin’ concert with Vote for Pedro, 6:30 – 9 p.m.
13
Heroes of Summer Volunteer Donor Blood Drive, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., City Hall
22
Municipal Court, 9 a.m.
16
Municipal Court, 6 p.m.
23
City Council, 7:30 p.m., workshop, 5:30 p.m.
Veterans Commission, 7 p.m.
27
Municipal Court, 6 p.m.
17
Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council, 5:30 p.m.
Jammin’ with Laytham & Holmes Duo, 6:30 – 9 p.m.
18
Senior Advisory Committee, 2:30 p.m.
3
Labor Day, City Hall, RSC CLOSED
Public Works Commission, 7 p.m.
5
Municipal Court, 9 a.m.
18
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September
Visit the City of O’Fallon’s website, www.ofallon.mo.us, for the latest news and meeting agendas. Most meetings are broadcast live and on demand at www.ofallon.mo.us/OFallonTV.