Edge 010710

JANUARY 7 ISSUE

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What’s Inside

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Thursday January 7_________

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Come Sail Away

Sesame Street Live -Scottrade Center, St. Louis, Mo.

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Dennis DeYoung to visit St. Charles.

The Big Apple

New York City hikes fees for filming.

10 The open road

Annual RV and travel show scheduled.

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Ricky Skaggs

Bringing bluegrass to the Sheldon.

15 Hitting the slopes Hidden Valley serves local skiiers.

16 Blackeyed peas Enjoy the tastes of the South.

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What’s Happening

The Lil' Kountry Shop A trip back in time.

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Friday January 8_________ Gregory Basco Exhibit -Mo. Bot. Gardens, St. Louis, Mo., Monsanto Hall Sesame Street Live -Scottrade Center, St. Louis, Mo. Film: Van Gogh: Brush with Genius, -St. Louis Science Center, Forest Park, various times The Language of Objects: New Works by Jane Birdsall-Lander and Jo Stealey -Sheldon Art Gallery, St. Louis.

Saturday January 9_________ Gregory Basco Exhibit -Mo. Bot. Gardens, St. Louis, Mo., Monsanto Hall Eddie Izzard

-The Fox Theatre, 8 p.m.

Sesame Street Live -Scottrade Center, St. Louis, Mo. Film: Van Gogh: Brush with Genius, -St. Louis Science Center, Forest Park, various times The Language of Objects: New Works by Jane Birdsall-Lander and Jo Stealey -Sheldon Art Gallery, St. Louis

Sunday January 10_ ______ Gregory Basco Exhibit -Mo. Bot. Gardens, St. Louis, Mo., Monsanto Hall Sesame Street Live -Scottrade Center, St. Louis, Mo.

Wednesday January 13_ ______

-Amerisports Bar & Grill, St. Charles, Mo.

Thursday January 14_ ______ St. Louis Blues vs. Columbus Blue Jackets -Scottrade Center, St. Louis, 7 p.m.

Gregory Basco Exhibit -Mo. Bot. Gardens, St. Louis, Mo., Monsanto Hall Grease -The Fox Theatre, 8 p.m.

Friday January 15_ ______ Gregory Basco Exhibit -Mo. Bot. Gardens, St. Louis, Mo., Monsanto Hall Grease -The Fox Theatre, 8 p.m.

Gregory Basco Exhibit -Mo. Bot. Gardens, St. Louis, Mo., Monsanto Hall Gray Maynard vs. Nate Diaz Fight Night

Who We Are ON THE EDGE OF THE WEEKEND is a product of the Edwardsville Intelligencer, a member of the Hearst Newspaper Group. THE EDGE is available free, either through home delivery or rack distribution. FOR DELIVERY INFO call 656.4700 Ext. 20. FOR ADVERTISING INFO call 656.4700 Ext. 35.

For comments or questions regarding EDITORIAL CONTENT call 656.4700 Ext. 30 or fax 659.1677.

Publisher – Denise Vonder Haar | Editor – Bill Tucker | Lead Writer – Debbie Settle | Cover Design – Desirée Bennyhoff

January 7, 2010

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People

Lil' Kountry Shop is a trip back in time

By JULIA BIGGS Of The Edge There’s something about an old iron skillet, an old Barbie doll or a picket fence that immediately takes us back in time to an era that seemed more relaxing and carefree. That feeling is exactly what Kathy Cook and her entire family have created in their business, A Lil’ Kountry Shop on Main Street in Edwardsville.

Everyone in Kathy’s family has a part in the success of A Lil’ Kountry Shop which offers a variety of handmade craft items made by local crafters as well as antique, country and primitive type décor.

The building, located at 307 N. Main, actually serves as two family businesses – A Lil’ Kountry Shop and Kritter Korner, a pet grooming shop that is located in the rear of the building. Kritter Korner was Kathy’s first business venture – born in her basement. “I started that long ago before my kids were born,” Kathy said. “It’s been over 20 years.”

As Kritter Korner grew, Kathy moved out of her basement and eventually into the building on Main Street.

Requiring only a portion of the building, she said they rented out the front part of the building to other businesses. Over the years that space has served as her father’s sports memorabilia shop “Field of Dreams” as well as “Cards and Comics,” a magic, card and comic book store owned by her brother in the late ‘90s.

A Lil’ Kountry Shop began when a couple of ladies rented the front of the building. They sold antiques but also solicited local crafters to rent a space in the store to display and sell their handmade crafts.

Almost six years ago the ladies decided to move on. “They both moved to different parts of the country to be with family, and we decided that we liked it so much that we just took the business over and decided to keep it going,” Kathy said. “A lot of the renters stayed from the time that those ladies had it. They still work with us, and they are great people.”

The rest of the merchandise in the store is a combination of items that are found at auctions or handmade items made by other members of Kathy’s family.

Kathy’s husband, Terry, makes a lot of the wood decorations that are on display in front of the store. “The fences that have the decorations or the yard signs – the lollipops, the candy canes – he just made some snowmen and he’s working on some gingerbread men today,” Kathy said.

“And my mom paints it.”

Kathy says that her mother, Janice McDonald, is the creative one. “We tease her that she can go out into the woods and take a bunch of

January 7, 2010

Marci Winters-McLaughlin/The Edge

Pictured at A Lil’ Kountry Shop, front left Kathy Cook, manager, front right Janice McDonald, owner and crafter, back left Terry Cook, crafter, center Kirstie Fore, Assistant Manager, back right Sean McDonald, handyman. Not pictured Wendy McDonald, crafter, Kris Fore, handyman, Brent Maher, maintenance. sticks and weeds and make it into something beautiful,” Kathy said. \ “She just has that creative gene.

A lot of the places in the shop that aren’t filled with a vendor or crafter are filled with the stuff that she’s made.”

Pointing out that the creative part of the business is left to other members of the family, Kathy chuckled and said, “I do the numbers and the business and the computer stuff – that’s my forte. I don’t have a creative bone in my body.”

One of Janice’s daily creative contributions is making the popular selling handmade potpourri. “She picks and dries everything from the wood or fruits,” Kathy said. “She hand dries everything. She makes potpourri constantly. We have five different scents right now so it’s a lot of work to keep the potpourri going.”

Kathy’s sister-in-law, Wendy, and daughter, Kirstie, provide the merchandising. “They can whip through the shop like a tornado and make creative displays and rearrange things so that it looks good,” Kathy said.

Keeping the business running is

truly a family affair. Kathy’s twin brother, Sean, an electrician by trade, works on electrical issues within the building and Kathy’s son, Kristopher, and Kirstie’s boyfriend, Brent Maher, provide all the maintenance and heavy labor.

Kathy said they do whatever she needs help with – cleaning out gutters, putting up fencing, building displays, hanging lights or making deliveries.

Although Kathy credits her family for a lot of the work that goes into the business, she also spoke very highly about the crafters whose work she displays. “We just have so many creative people,” she said.

“Nice, nice people – just wonderful people – they hand make their stuff and they work very hard at it.”

Describing some of the talents of her vendors, Kathy told about a woman who specialized in creative ways to use the scrapbooking method. “It’s not just scrapbooks,” Kathy said. “She makes ornaments, memory books, candy jars, stuff for holidays, graduation books, little address books for kids, recipe boxes – things that you’d never even think of.”

A crafty couple together make

up another vendor. The husband makes items out of wood and his wife paints it. “They work together making all this really cute stuff,” Kathy said. “Stuff that you’d put on your porch or hang in your house.

Right now we have a nativity scene built out of wood that he built and she painted. At Thanksgiving, we had pilgrims that they made.”

Another vendor makes floor cloths out of oil cloth. “She varnishes both sides,” Kathy said. “They last like 12 to 15 years and are completely waterproof.”

Yet another vendor builds oak furniture by hand. “Really fantastic stuff,” Kathy said. “He can stain it in any color. He can build to order.

Just really high quality. He takes a lot of care in what he makes. He wants it to be perfect.”

A Lil’ Kountry Shop has such a variety of items that Kathy struggled to concisely describe it. “The basic line that my mom always puts on all the advertising is home décor and more,” she said. “But that barely covers it.”

She described it best by the feeling that people have when they visit.

“People come in and always say, “Oh I like this country crafty type

stuff,”” Kathy said. “They call it decorating with a country style.

They like the barn wood stuff, things that are made out of wood, things that are old fashioned – old furniture, the old pots and pan look – things that remind you of that old homey feeling like going to grandmas.”

She went on to describe the feeling as back when times were simpler when you could sit on a rocking chair on the back porch. “They get that reminiscent feeling – like they are back at home or gone back in time,” Kathy said. “That’s the feeling they get and that’s what they like.”

A Lil’ Kountry Shop has special holiday hours. Through Christmas it will be open 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. After Christmas the store hours revert back to 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and closed on Sundays.

Parking is available in front of the store on Main Street, but there’s also ample parking behind the building.

There’s also a new rear entrance to the store that’s accessible from the rear parking lot.

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People People planner LCCC offers two real estate classes With the expectation that the Real Estate market is preparing to rebound, now is the perfect time for individuals looking for a full- or part-time job to start a career in Real Estate. Lewis and Clark is making it easy for individuals looking to get started by offering two Real Estate Transactions courses this spring in Edwardsville and Jerseyville.

The first session is being offered from 6:30-9:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays Jan. 19-March 11 on the N. O. Nelson campus in Edwardsville. The second session will meet from 6:30-10 p.m. Monday and Wednesdays Jan. 20-March 10 at Jersey Community High School, Jerseyville.

Real Estate 132 examines the nature of real estate and its ownership, titles, legal descriptions, uses, contracts, leases, taxation and values.

Upon successful completion of the course, students are qualified to take the Illinois Real Estate Salesperson Examination, which is the test required for state licensing as a real estate agent.

Students must be 21-years-old to take the test and must possess a high school diploma or equivalent.

For more information contact Kevin Botterbush at 618-466-5000 or kbotterb@lc.edu.

SWIC travel club to visit Little Rock Southwestern Illinois College is offering a chance for a summer 2010 adventure with a trip to Little Rock, Ark. The SWIC Travel Program has four action-packed days planned Thursday, June 3 to Sunday, June 6.

Take a tour and dine at the historic Marlsgate Plantation. Enjoy lunch and shopping in the River Market District. Discover the intricacies of Little Rock as you take a guided city tour and visit the William J. Clinton Presidential Center, the acclaimed exhibit “World of the Pharaohs: Treasures of Egypt Revealed,” the Heifer International and enjoy lunch at the Whole Hog Café.

Stop in Memphis, Tenn. en route back to Illinois to explore the world famous Beale Street and enjoy a southern-style lunch.

The cost per person is $839 for a single occupancy room, $689 for a double occupancy room and $639 for a triple occupancy room. A deposit of $100 is required to secure your reservation.

The cost includes three nights at the award-winning Comfort Inn; six meals, including three breakfasts and three dinners; motor coach transportation; a tour escort; and all gratuities. Final payment is due Tuesday, April 20. Space is limited so book your trip now!

For more information or to secure

January 7, 2010

your spot, contact Nancy Bauer at 618-234-4410, ext. 7020, or 314-4363218, ext. 7020.

Build your own Lincoln sites Anyone with a computer, printer, scissors and glue can now be the proud owner of five new scale models of Abraham Lincoln sites, including his Home and Tomb, joining five other scale models that debuted earlier this year.

The Illinois Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission’s “Build Your Own Lincoln Sites” project now offers HO-scale models of the Lincoln Home and Lincoln Tomb, both in Springfield; Beecher Hall in Jacksonville; the Shastid Cabin in Pittsfield; and the Vandalia Statehouse. Each of these five historic building models can be printed on your own card stock and assembled and glued together for display. The models may be accessed free of charge at www. lookingforlincoln.com or www.

Illinois-History.gov, and each has easy-to-follow assembly instructions that will have you building history in no time.

The five latest entries in the “Build Your Own Lincoln Sites” complete a series of ten and join five that debuted earlier this year: The Old State Capitol and Great Western Depot in Springfield, the Berry-Lincoln Store at Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site near Petersburg, Old Main at Knox College in Galesburg, and the Thomas Lincoln Home at Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site near Charleston.

The buildings range in difficulty and scale from the Thomas Lincoln Home measuring two-and-a-half by six inches and requiring two sheets of cardstock, to the Old State Capitol model’s more monumental 18 by 24 inches that requires 41 sheets of cardstock.

The Lincoln sites models were patterned after the historic building models that are available as part of the “Build Your Own Main Street” section at www.Illinois-History.gov.

Ten buildings from Illinois Main Street downtowns are available to download from that site.

The Build Your Own Lincoln Sites is a project of the Illinois Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission

and the Old State Capitol Foundation. The Illinois Historic Preservation Agency provided project assistance. Michael GoebelBain is the artist who designed the Build Your Own Lincoln Sites models.

Eckert’s announces $5 million expansion Nearly 100 years after Alvin O Eckert opened the first roadside farm stand, offering produce to local residents, Eckert’s, Inc. announced today plans to move forward with an expansion of the Eckert’s Country Store and Restaurant in Belleville.

The expansion will cost $5 million and is scheduled to be finished in 2010, the same year Eckert’s, which is lead by the sixth and seventh generations of the Eckert family, will celebrate its 100th anniversary.

Lawrence Group is the architect and Holland Construction Services is the contractor for the expansion project.

In the next month, Eckert’s will break ground on a new, 22,000square-foot Country Store that will boast expanded space for local produce, locally raised beef and pork in a fresh meat shop, specialty foods, an expanded bakery and a 1,200square-foot cooking and workshop classroom. The Country Store is expected to open to the public in July 2010. Once the Country Store is complete, construction will begin on renovating and expanding the current Eckert’s Country Restaurant.

The expanded 14,000-square-foot Restaurant will accommodate nearly 400 guests, providing twice the capacity to serve both local residents and large group outings yearround. The Restaurant expansion is scheduled for completion in September 2010.

“We are appreciative of the community’s support as we move forward in building on the long established Eckert’s tradition of creating unique family experiences and lasting memories for the next 100 years,” said Chris Eckert, president of Eckert’s, Inc. “Through our expanded presence in Belleville, we hope to maintain the identity of Eckert’s that generations of customers have created family memories with, while expanding our year-round programs and offerings as a specialty grocer of quality, locally grown products.”

Immanuel

The expansion will include additional parking, to accommodate customers during peak seasons and throughout the year, and an outdoor plaza to welcome visitors to the Eckert’s experience – outstanding f re s h p ro d u c t s a n d f r i e n d l y service within a unique country atmosphere.

“The design of the new Country Store and Restaurant is intended to honor our 100-year history while enhancing our customer experience year-round,” added Eckert.

Civil rights attorney featured at MLK dinner Famed civil rights attorney Thomas N. Todd will speak at the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Fellowship Dinner on January 24 at 5 p.m. in the Young Main Lounge of the Memorial Center (104 University St., Bloomington). Known as “TNT” for his dynamic oratory skills, Todd will give a speech titled “Dr. Martin Luther King. Jr.: More Than A Dreamer.”

Tickets for the event, co-sponsored

Illinois Wesleyan and the United Community Gospel Singers of Bloomington and Normal, Illinois, are $13 for adults and $6.50 for Illinois Wesleyan students and children 12 and under. Tickets can be purchased in person at the Illinois Wesleyan University Bookstore_in Hansen Student Center_(300 Beecher St., Bloomington), or by calling the bookstore_at (309) 556-3059, Illinois Wesleyan Director of Government and Community Relations Carl Teichman at (309) 556-3429, or_the Rev. James Sims at (309) 828-4602.

Tickets are available until January 20, 2010. There will be no ticket sales at the door.

Todd is known as a pioneering civil rights lawyer, earning his law degree from Southern University’s School of Law in 1963. After serving as a lawyer in the U.S. Army, he joined the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Chicago, Illinois in 1967, and made history by developing the first criminal case against a Chicago policeman for deprivation of an individual’s civil rights. In 1969, Todd organized the first Civil Rights Office at the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

Religious Directory Bahá’í Faith

Episcopal ST. ANDREWS EPISCOPAL

Hillsboro At North Buchanan Edwardsville, IL 656-1929 The Rev. Virginia L. Bennett, D. Min. Sunday Services: 8:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist Rite I 9:00 a.m. Adult Education 9:00 a.m. Church School 10:00 a.m. Choral Eucharist Rite II Nursery Provided www.standrews-edwardsville.com

ST. THOMAS EPISCOPAL Summit at School Street, Glen Carbon, IL 288-5620 Fr. Eugene A. Stormer Sunday: Christian Education 9:30 a.m.

Holy Eucharist 10:30 a.m.

St. Thomas Child Care Center Now enrolling infants through Pre-K Call 288-5697 “Worship in the warm hospitality of a village church.”

United

Methodist Church (618) 656-4648 8 0 0 N . M A I N S T R E E T • E D WA R D S V I L L E

The Church with the Prayer Garden

Journey’s Inn Praise Service 9 am Traditional Worship 10 am • Sunday School 11:15 am

Children’s Movie Night -”UP” is showing with popcorn and soda provided.

Friday, January 8, 6:30 - 8:30 pm www.immanuelonmain.org

To Advertise: Call 656-4700, Ext. 46 Deadline: Tuesday @ 10:30 am

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Music

Sailing away with Dennis DeYoung Former Styx vocalist to appear at the Family Arena

By DEBBIE SETTLE Of The Edge If you grew up in the ‘70s and ‘80s, the voice of Dennis DeYoung is immediately recognizable. As lead singer of Styx, DeYoung has had huge success with several number one hits and has also released a number of solo albums.

Most recently, although he still is writing and producing his own music, DeYoung has added Broadway producer, composer and director to his resume. “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” is a theatrical production written, composed, and directed by DeYoung.

Now in production is DeYoung’s next musical production “101 Dalmations,” which he again is the composer and co-lyricist. The Broadway musical is currently on tour and will be throughout 2010.

More information about “101 Dalmations” can be found at www. the101dalmationsmusical.com.

During his visit to the Family Arena in St. Charles, DeYoung will perform with his five-piece band, guest Broadway vocalists and a rock band featuring such classics as “Lady,” “Babe,” “Come Sail Away,” “Mr. Roboto,” “Grand Illusion,” “Lorelei,” Suite Madame Blue,” “Rockin’ The Paradise,” “Don’t Let It End,” plus many more, including solo works and new music.

DeYoung and film composer Alan Silvestri rearranged and reorchestrated “Grand Illusion” for

For The Edge

Dennis DeYoung a symphony orchestra and rock band, which closes the IMAX film Siegfried and Roy: “The Magic Box.” His latest ventures include “Come

Sail Away” featured in the Disney movie “Atlantis,” Ja Rule covering one of his old Styx songs “Castle Walls.” Foxy Brown sampling “Light

Up.” and a spoof of “Mr. Roboto” in “Austin Powers – Goldmember.”

In recent years, DeYoung’s songs have appeared in movies and

television shows, including: Sofia Coppola’s “Virgin Suicides;” Adam Sandler’s “Big Daddy” and “8 Crazy Nights;” New Line Cinema’s “Detroit Rock City;” DreamWork’s release “Old School” starring Will Ferrell and Vince Vaughn; Comedy Central’s “South Park,” NBC’s “ED” and “ER;” ABC’s “Still Standing” and CBS’ “The King of Queens.” Volkswagen turned “Mr. Roboto” into a funny national commercial featuring two Wayne’s World-type guys jammin’ to the song.

The Family Arena performance will be on Friday, Feb. 12, at 7 p.m.

From Interstate 70, take the South Fifth Street exit and follow the signs to Arena Parkway. (Just five minutes from Riverport).

Tickets are currently on sale and can be purchased at the Family Arena Ticket Office and all MetroTix locations including Macy’s and select Schnucks video centers or on the web at www.metrotix.com.

Prices are $71 (gold circle), $48 (floor and lower level sides), $42 (lower level endzone and upper level sides), $36 (upper level endzone).

To charge by phone call MetroTix at 314-534-1111. For help purchasing accessible seating, please call The Family Arena ADA Hotline at 636896-4234.

Please call The Family Arena event hotline at 636-896-4242 for more information, or visit www. familyarena.com. Please note that the cost of parking is included in the ticket price for this event.

Suites Available For Single Events – Treat the family, reward employees or celebrate a special occasion. For info and pricing, contact Scott McCarthy at 636-896-4291.

Band Bio: Tractor Kings

By DEBBIE SETTLE Of The Edge Members: Jake “Cujo” Fleischli, 12 String Acoustic Guitar, Harp, Keys, Lead Vocals.

Johnny “Chemical” Davidson, lead and electric guitars.

Andrew Davidson: drums and percussion Aaron “Jibbski” McCallister: bass guitar, backing vocals.

J a k e F l e i s c h l i f o r m e d t h e Tr a c t o r K i n g s a s a t w o p i e c e i n 1998 with Rebecca Rury on drums. Playing local shows in the Champaign/Urbana area the two piece gained a following, and recorded its first album “Sunday Night” with Joe Stover that was released in 2001.

Jake reformed the band in 2002 to record the band’s second album “Gone to Heaven” at Matt Talbott’s (of HUM/Centaur) Great Western Record Recorders in the small railroad town of Tolono.

“Gone to Heaven” was released in 2003 and shortly after Jake moved the T-kings project up to Chicago.

Si n c e t h a t t i me , t h e g ro u p h a s re fo r m e d and c o ns is ts o f the current members. They play all around Illinois.

For more info on the Tractor Kings, or to hear some of their demos, visit www.myspace.com/thetractorkings.

January 7, 2010

For The Edge

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Music Tuning in Jazz St. Louis announces schedule Jazz St. Louis is pleased to announce the concerts scheduled for the 2010 Season. These artists reflect some of the best local and regional talent to complement our internationally recognized Jazz at the Bistro series: Date Artist Cover January 15-16, Kim Massie, $20 January 29-30, Brian Owens, $15 *February 12-14, Valentine’s Day with Mardra & Reggie Thomas, $25 February 26-27, The Bosman Twins, $20 March 12-13, Funky Butt Brass Band, $15 March 26-27, Musica Slesa, $20 April 23-24, Erin Bode, $20 May 7-8, Jazz St. Louis All-Stars, $15 May 21-22, “The Music of Miles Davis” with the Legacy Jazz Quintet, $15 Show times at 8:30 p.m. and 10:15 p.m., *except for Sunday, February 14, when there will be only one show at 8:30 p.m. Tickets for all events go on sale at 10:00 a.m.

Tuesday, December 8 via all Metrotix locations or through the Jazz St. Louis box office at 314-289-4030.

Jazz St. Louis is a not-for-profit 501 (c) (3) whose mission is to lead our community in advancing the uniquely American art of jazz through live performance, education and outreach. For more information about Jazz St. Louis, visit www. jazzstl.org.

UMSL to showcase masks, mime, music of Japan Kuniko Yamamoto will perform “Magical Mask, Mime and Music of Japan” at 8 p.m. Jan. 22 and 2 p.m.

Jan. 23 at the E. Desmond and Mary Ann Lee Theater in the Blanche M. Touhill Performing Arts Center at the University of Missouri-St. Louis. There will be two E3! Explore presentations at 7:10 p.m. Jan. 22 and 1:10 p.m. Jan. 23, which allows the audience to engage in a preperformance discussion with experts to gain a fuller understanding of the show.

A favorite performer at Disney Epcot Center and The Kennedy Center, Yamamoto’s marvelous presentations promote cross-cultural communication and understanding in an entertaining way. She will perform charming folktales with traditional musical instruments, magical masks, origami and mime to bring the stories to life in a vibrant way.

The concert is sponsored by The E. Desmond Lee Global Ethnic Collaborative at UMSL, Ei’ichi Shibusawa-Seigo Arai Professorship in Japanese Studies at UMSL, Center for International Studies at UMSL

January 7, 2010

and Blanche M. Touhill Performing Arts Center at UMSL. Tickets are $18.

Visit http://www.touhill.org or call 314-516-4949 to purchase tickets or for more information.

Gospel Festival celebrates 20th anniversary This year marks the 20th anniversary of the annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Gospel Festival. It will be held Monday, Jan. 18 from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Westbrook Auditorium of Presser Hall (1210 Park St., Bloomington).

The event, free and open to the public, honors the birth of civil rights activist Martin Luther King, Jr. This year ’s celebration will include performances by the United Community Gospel Singers Mass Choir, Gayles Memorial Mass Choir (Aurora, IL) Fantastic Jones Family (Springfield, Ill.), Union Baptist Church Adult Choir, Integrity Singers (Peoria, Ill.), Illinois Wesleyan Chapel Gospel Choir, Illinois State Interdenominational Youth Choir, Mt. Pisgah Sunbeam Choir, Loving Missionary Baptist Choir, JAM Production Choir, Boys and Girls Club Choir, Crosswinds Praise Dance Team, The Hour of Deliverance Youth Choir, the City of Refuge Adult Choir, Mt Pisgah Praise Dancers, and Mt. Pisgah Adult Choir.

Bloomington Mayor Steve Stockton and Illinois Wesleyan President Richard F. Wilson will bring welcome to the festival. Former Bloomington Mayor Jesse Smart and others will offer remembrances of the first festival.

Started in 1991 by Corine Sims as a joint effort with Illinois

Wesleyan University and the United Community Gospel Singers, the Gospel Festival found a fitting home at Illinois Wesleyan, where King spoke twice, once in 1961 before his famous March on Washington speech, and again in 1966, after he had become the youngest man to win a Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts of non-violent protest in the Civil Rights Movement.

Barbara Sims Malone, daughter of Corine Sims and the Rev. James E. Sims, said she remembered how her mother explained the idea of the festival. “She was so excited as she sat there and told us her plan to honor Dr. King, Jr. in a gospel festival of song and dance,” said Malone.

For additional information on the Gospel Festival, contact Carl Teichman at 309-556-3429 or cteich@ iwu.edu.

Millikin University Choir will peform winter concert The nationally recognized Millikin University Choir from Decatur will perform a concert at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church, located at 2300 Pontoon Rd. in Granite City on January 17, 2010 at 4 p.m. Tickets are not required but a freewill offering will be accepted.

The concert is part of the Choir’s annual winter tour showcasing i t s re p u t a t i o n f o r i n n o v a t i v e programming and tonal variety with repertoire spanning five centuries.

The concert will feature the following local students: Tim Havis of Edwardsville and Leah Schultz of Alton.

The Choir ’s extensive touring history includes performances in Scandinavia, Russia, Haiti, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic,

England, China and Taiwan. In addition, the Choir has several CDs to its credit, including this year ’s live recording of the 51st annual Vespers at Millikin, a tradition that attracts 7,000 annually.

The Millikin University Choir is under the direction of Dr. Bradley Holmes, professor of music and chair of Choral Studies. Holmes has led the choir since 1991.

Millikin’s School of Music offers a wide variety of degree programs and fields of specialization. The 53voice University Choir is one of five primary choral ensembles involving over 300 students. Choir members are chosen after highly competitive auditions among the student body and represent a variety of majors.

Millikin University is a private university that touts a diverse student population of approximately 2,300 students. Signature features of a Millikin education include an engaged, integrated, and experiential learning environment that promotes hands-on opportunities in over 50 majors from our College of Fine Arts, College of Arts & Sciences, College of Professional Studies (School of Education, School of Nursing, and Department of Exercise Science and Sport) and Tabor School of Business.

Millikin is a residential campus, which affords its students several opportunities to be involved in fine arts, student activities, student organizations and athletics at both the intercollegiate and intramural levels.

COCAdance Alumni Concert set COCA’s student dance company, known for its professionalism and cutting edge choreography, presents the annual alumni concerts, featuring guest appearances

by recent graduates as well as professional dancers performing in national companies.

Choreographers represented in this season’s concerts include Alicia Graf (former principal dancer with Alvin Ailey now teaching at COCA) Jon Lehrer (LehrerDance, Buffalo) Lara Teeter (Webster University), freelance choreographer Kate Skarpetowska, Cecil Slaughter ( Wa s h i n g t o n U n i v e r s i t y ) a n d COCAdance alumna Amy Allen.

Showtimes are Saturday, January 9, at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. at the Founders’ Theatre at COCA, 524 Trinity Avenue, just off the Delmar Loop in U. City.

Tickets ($15 adult/$12 student) are available at the COCA Box or www.COCAstl.org.

COCAdance is an advanced level student dance company for students ages 11-18. COCAdance company members rehearse and perform at COCA and around the St. Louis region. Members perform in a wide variety of styles on account of COCA’s commitment to providing students with the experience of working with guest choreographers.

Over the years, COCAdance members have studied with Robert Battle (Battleworks), Frank Chaves and Sherry Zunker (RiverNorth Dance Co.), Lane Alexander (Chicago Human Rhythm Project), Doug Elkins (Doug Elkins Dance C o m p a n y ) , C l y d e E v a n s , J r.

(Rennie Harris Puremovement), Jason Samuels Smith (NYOTS) and Juilliard graduates Jessica Lang and Gelan Lambert, among others.

Work set on COCA students by these choreographers has become an important component of their repertoire.

COCAdance students have graduated to college dance programs including The Juilliard School,

WORK TODAY for a better tomorrow St. Louis Based Company

Contact Linda: (618) 570-9787

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Music Music calendar **If you would like to add something to our music calendar, email it to theedge@edwpub.net.

Thursday, Jan. 7 • Lady Gaga, The Fox Theatre, 7:30 p.m., St. Louis, Mo. • King Pin, Bottleneck Blues Bar, Ameristar, St. Charles, 8 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 8 • Cracker and Camper Van Beethoven, The Pageant, Delmar Loop •   D re a d Z e p p e l i n , Vo o D o o Lounge at Harrah’s, St. Louis • Joe Dirt, Bottleneck Blues Bar, Ameristar Casino, St. Charles

Saturday, Jan. 9 • Legends from Branson, Rickman Auditorium, Arnold, Mo., 7 p.m. • Memories of Elvis featuring Steve Davis and The Mid South Revival, The Pageant, Delmar Loop • Joe Dirt, Bottleneck Blues Bar, Ameristar Casino, St. Charles

Sunday, Jan. 10 • The Terry Thompson Swing Alive Band, Doubletree Hotel, 1973 Craigshire Rd., St. Louis, Mo., 1:15 p.m.-doors open

Monday, Jan. 11 • Madahoochi & Friends, Cicero’s, Delmar/The Loop, 9 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 12 • Grease, The Fox Theatre, 8 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 13 • Grease, The Fox Theatre, 8 p.m. • Open Mic w/Duct Tape Duo Trio, Stagger Inn, Edwardsville, 9:30 p.m. • Dr. Zhivegas, Bottleneck Blues Bar, Ameristar, St. Charles, 8:30 p.m. • Open Mic Night, FREE Tacos, Villa Marie Winery, Maryville, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 14 • Grease, The Fox Theatre, 8 p.m. • Bitter Pill, Bottleneck Blues Bar, Ameristar, St. Charles, 8 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 15 • Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder, The Sheldon, St. Louis, Mo., 8 p.m. • Bi-State Band, SIUE Camupus, Dunham Hall • Grease, The Fox Theatre, 8 p.m. • Kim Massie, Jazz at the Bistro, 3536 Washington Ave., St. Louis • Dr. Zhivegas, Bottle Neck Blues Bar, Ameristar, St. Charles, 9:30 p.m.

• That ‘80s Band, Bottleneck Blues Bar, Ameristar, St. Charles, 9:30 p.m. • Boulder Dash, Villa Marie Winery, Maryville, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. • Soul Kiss, The Duck Room at Blueberry Hill, Delmar Loop

Sunday, Jan. 17

• Eliane Elias, The Sheldon, St. Louis, Mo. • Grease, The Fox Theatre, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. • That ‘80s Band, Bottleneck Blues Bar, Ameristar, St. Charles, 9:30 p.m. • Owl City, The Pageant, Delmar Loop-Sold Out

• Ballet Folklorico De Mexico, 8 p.m., The Fox Theatre • The Muny Kids, Just Imagine!, 11 a.m., The Sheldon, St. Louis • Keller Williams, The Pageant, St. Louis, Mo. • Brian Owens, Jazz at the Bistro, 3536 Washington, Ave., St. Louis • King Pin, Bottleneck Blues Bar, Ameristar, St. Charles, 9:30 p.m. • Nikko Smith, VooDoo Lounge, Harrah’s, St. Louis

Sunday, Jan. 24

Wednesday, Feb. 3

• Grease, The Fox Theatre, 2 p.m. • Yo La Tengo, The Pageant, Delmar Loop

• Open Mic w/Duct Tape Duo Trio, Stagger Inn, Edwardsville, 9:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 27

Friday, Feb. 5

• Robert Schumann, w/violinist David Halen and pianist Peter Henderson, The Sheldon, St. Louis • Open Mic w/Duct Tape Duo Trio, Stagger Inn, Edwardsville, 9:30 p.m. • Tea Leaf Green, Elmwood, The Duck Room, Blueberry Hill, 8:30 p.m. • Dr. Zhivegas, Bottleneck Blues Bar, Ameristar, St. Charles, 8:30 p.m. • Open Mic Night, FREE tacos, Villa Marie Winery, Maryville, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

• Peter Martin Music, The Duo: w/Dianne Reeves, The Sheldon, St. Louis

• Grease, The Fox Theatre, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Monday, Jan. 18 • Split Lip Rayfield, The Duck Room at Blueberry Hill, Delmar Loop

Tuesday, Jan. 19 • Grease, The Fox Theatre, 8 p.m. •  A a ro n L e w i s o f S t a i n e d Acoustic, Ameristar, Bottleneck Blues Bar, St. Charles, Mo. • Nick Jonas and the Administration, The Pageant, Delmar Loop

Wednesday, Jan. 20 • Grease, The Fox Theatre, 8 p.m. • Open Mic w/Duct Tape Duo Trio, Stagger Inn, Edwardsville, 9:30 p.m. • Dr. Zhivegas, Bottleneck Blues Bar, Ameristar, St. Charles, 8:30 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 21 • Grease, The Fox Theatre, 1 p.m. and 8 p.m. • Foreigner, Bottleneck Blues Bar, Ameristar, St. Charles, Mo. • Dave Mason, VooDoo Lounge at Harrah’s, St. Louis

Saturday, Jan. 23

Thursday, Jan. 28 • Rich Mahogany, Bottleneck Blues Bar, Ameristar, St. Charles, 8 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 29

Friday, Jan. 22 • Grease, The Fox Theatre, 8 p.m. • Corey Smith, The Pageant, Delmar Loop • Winter Jam 2010, Third Day, Newsboys, Newsong, The Family Arena, Highland

• The Anvil Experience, The Pageant, St. Louis, Mo. • Ballet Folklorico De Mexico, 8 p.m., The Fox Theatre • Brian Owens, Jazz at the Bistro, 3536 Washington, Ave., St. Louis

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Saturday, Jan. 30

Saturday, Feb. 6 • Gov’t Mule, The Pageant,

Delmar Loop

Wednesday, Feb. 10 • Open Mic w/Duct Tape Duo Trio, Stagger Inn, Edwardsville, 9:30 p.m. • Robert Earl Keen, The Pageant, Delmar Loop, St. Louis

Thursday, Feb. 11 • An Evening with the Dark Star Orchestra, The Pageant, Delmar Loop, St. Louis, Mo., 8 p.m. • Kenny Rodgers, The Family Arena, St. Charles, Mo.

Friday, Feb. 12 • Patti LaBelle and The O’Jays, Fox Theatre, St. Louis, 8 p.m. • Valentine’s Day with Mardra and Reggie Thomas, Jazz at the Bistro, 3536 Washington Ave., St. Louis, Mo.

Saturday, Feb. 13 • Valentine’s Day with Mardra and Reggie Thomas, Jazz at the Bistro, 3536 Washington Ave., St. Louis, Mo.

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Saturday, Jan. 16 • Metal Studz, VooDoo Lounge, Harrah’s St. Louis • Bi-State Band, SIUE Camupus, Dunham Hall • New World Spirits, The Pageant, Delmar Loop, St. Louis, Mo., 8 p.m.

• King Pin, Bottleneck Blues Bar, Ameristar, St. Charles, 9:30 p.m.

• Grease, The Fox Theatre, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. • Kim Massie, Jazz at the Bistro, 3536 Washington Ave., St. Louis • Dr. Zhivegas, Bottle Neck Blues Bar, Ameristar, St. Charles, 9:30 p.m. • LoveHammers, The Duck Room at Blueberry Hill, Delmar Loop

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7

Movies

“Invictus”

Clint Eastwood’s latest is a sports film less about what’s on the playing field than what’s happening in the stands. It’s the story of South Africa’s sea change under Nelson Mandela (Morgan Freeman) told through the unlikely prism of sport. It comes off like a case study in leadership, perhaps a bit clinical and limited, but still deeply revealing. When Mandela takes office in 1994, he embraces the rugby national team, the Springboks, and seeks to turn a symbol of apartheid into a beacon of hope. It feels like destiny fulfilled hearing Freeman — who has long sought to play the role — speak Mandela’s halting, humble speech. No one could be better. “Invictus” is dripping with inspiration, and Eastwood’s extraordinary late period remains a good place to find it. With a blond, beefed-up Matt Damon as the rugby team’s captain and one truly terrible song from a South African boy band.

RATED: PG-13 for brief strong language.

RUNNING TIME: 132 minutes.

ASSOCIATED PRESS RANKING: Three stars out of four.

“Avatar”

James Cameron’s 3-D epic has all the smack of a Film Not To Miss — a movie whose effects are clearly revolutionary, a spectacle that millions will find adventure in. But it nevertheless feels unsatisfying and somehow lacks the pulse of a truly alive film. The plot is a little like the American frontier circa the 1800s, only transposed to the year 2154 on the faraway moon

QuickGlance Movie Reviews Pandora, the home of Native American-like, aqua blue, 10-foot tall creatures called the Na’vi.

Arriving are imperialistic humans to plunder, and scientists to study.

Dr. Grace Augustine (Sigourney Weaver) leads a team that explores in Na’vi bodies, avatars, controlled remotely. A sense of discovery — of Cameron’s digital world of Pandora, of the impressive technofilmmaking — makes “Avatar” often thrilling. The environmentalist and anti-war messages resonate with contemporary troubles, but they also seem odd coming from such a swaggering behemoth of a movie.

One senses Cameron’s zest lies in the battle, not in peace. With Sam Worthington and Zoe Saldana.

RATED: PG-13 for intense epic battle sequences and warfare, sensuality, language and some smoking.

RUNNING TIME: 161 minutes.

ASSOCIATED PRESS RANKING: Two and half stars out of four.

chipmunks, particularly worldfamous rock star chipmunks, really need a diploma? Aren’t they already smarter than Dave? While there’s no story, the movie does double the number of rodents, introducing the girl group, The Chipettes. Alvin and the boys compete against The Chipettes in a talent show, while that darned Ian (David Cross) tries to kidnap the ... oh, why bother going into detail? Just know there’s twice the chipmunks and about half the laughs of the 2007 holiday hit.

RATED: PG for some crude humor.

RUNNING TIME: 89 minutes.

ASSOCIATED PRESS RANKING: One star out of four.

“Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel”

Terry Gilliam’s film is more than a peculiar coda for Heath Ledger, the star who died midway through production. With relatively few changes, Gilliam and co-writer Charles McKeown refashioned the script so that Ledger’s part could be finished with three actors filling in: Johnny Depp, Jude Law and Colin Farrell. Farrell is the best and most dynamic of the bunch. The resulting film is an outlandish juggling act.

It teeters, creaks and breaks at the seams but somehow holds together better than you would expect. It’s overstuffed and ultimately spins out of control, but one leaves the theater impressed at Gilliam’s resilience in creating such ornate tales. Christopher Plummer plays

A movie that offers exactly two big laughs for its kiddo audience — one involving passing gas, the other a shot to the crotch. In the considerable gap between these two bits of comic invention, you have plenty of time to ponder why the movie turns on the idea of Dave (Jason Lee) sending Alvin, Simon and Theodore to high school. Do

“The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus”

Dr. Parnassus, whose traveling show leads people through a mirror and into a world of imagination (which can look something like the Monty Python cartoons Gilliam used to animate). Tom Waits plays an amiable devil in a bowler hat.

RATED: PG for violent images, some sensuality, language and smoking.

RUNNING TIME: 122 minutes.

ASSOCIATED PRESS RANKING: Two and a half stars out of four.

“It’s Complicated”

Writer-director Nancy Meyers’ latest relationship comedy isn’t what the name promises at all. It’s simple, almost as simple about grown-up romance and heartache as the average Hollywood teen comedy is about youthful love and sex. That said, a simple-minded story can benefit enormously with Meryl Streep on screen for almost an entire movie. Streep is charming as a divorced woman in an affair with her remarried ex-husband (Alec Baldwin) and a flirtation with a new man (Steve Martin). Too bad Streep puts on this nice show for such a superficial story, and for that matter, too bad for Baldwin, Martin and the rest of an earnest supporting cast led by John Krasinski. Meyers serves up fluff as light as the pastries Streep’s character bakes for a living, a story to make divorced people wish their broken marriages and the ugly aftermath could be as fun and

frolicsome as this.

RATED: R for some drug content and sexuality.

RUNNING TIME: 118 minutes.

ASSOCIATED PRESS RANKING: Two stars out of four.

“Sherlock Holmes”

Robert Downey Jr. is so NOT Sherlock Holmes. That’s not a hindrance — in fact, it’s a big help — as he and Guy Ritchie bring Arthur Conan Doyle’s Victorian-age detective into the modern world.

Enough of the trappings are left in their brawn-over-brain action romp to make Downey a reasonably faithful embodiment of Holmes.

And of course, this is Downey, whose career resurgence rests on his ability to make the most unlikely role his own. The movie’s big failing is the drab story, a bit of nonsense revolving around a secret society and potentially supernatural doings.

But Ritchie compensates with exhilarating action, and the movie offers engaging interplay among Downey and Jude Law as Holmes sidekick Watson, Rachel McAdams as the woman in the detective’s life, Eddie Marsan as Scotland Yard Inspector Lestrade and Mark Strong as the bad guy.

R AT E D : P G - 1 3 f o r i n t e n s e sequences of violence and action, some startling images and a scene of suggestive material.

RUNNING TIME: 129 minutes.

ASSOCIATED PRESS RANKING: Three stars out of four.

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January 7, 2010

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8

Movies

NYC increases filming fees

By GLENN WHIPP Associated Press NEW YORK (AP) — Higher fees for film production companies choosing to work in some New York City buildings have taken effect with no clear word on whether it will tarnish the city’s popularity as one of Hollywood’s favorite backdrops.

One critic calls the $3,200 price tag for a permit to film at one of the city’s buildings the highest fee in the nation by a municipality.

But the city, which attracts about $5 billion in business each year through the film trade, defends it as a small increase affecting a slim percentage of productions in a place that has long been among the friendliest filming venues in the country.

The city came up with the fee over the summer as it looked to cover more costs related to film productions, according to Marybeth Ihle, a spokeswoman for the Mayor’s Office of Film, Theatre and Broadcasting. The fee took effect Wednesday.

“Private locations can charge $10,000 a day so this is pretty nominal,” she said, adding that the fee affects only about 5 percent of productions that shoot scenes in New York City.

Among the biggest users of the city buildings is the longrunning dramatic series “Law & Order,” which films frequently inside courthouses and other city buildings. NBC Universal did not immediately respond to a call for comment on reports that the show might seek to shoot some scenes in other cities.

“This one thing itself is not going to chase productions out of the

Associated Press

In this March 3, 2004, photo released by the New York City Mayor’s Office, New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, center, is joined by former Sen. Fred Thompson, R-Tenn., left, who plays District Attorney Arthur Branch, actor Sam Waterson, right foreground, who plays Assistant District Attorney Jack McCoy and other cast and crew members of the television series “Law and Order” while filming in the Blue Room at New York City Hall. On Wednesday, Dec. 23, 2009, New York City began imposing a $3,200 fee to film in city buildings, which the city says will affect only about 5 percent of filming done citywide. city,” said John Johnston, executive director of the New York Production Alliance, which represents more than half of the 100,000 people employed in New York by the film, television and commercial

production industry.

But he said he spoke out against the fees at a public hearing earlier this year because it sets a dangerous precedent that may cause other city agencies to also impose fees that

collectively would cause productions to look elsewhere to film.

Ihle said the city has moved steadily since the 1960s to make it ever more comfortable for filming in the city, including providing

free locations to shoot scenes on city streets. She said it does not charge for police officers, permits, or parking and it covers many of the administrative costs associated with filming.

A big year at the box office

By ROBERT GRUBAUGH Of The Edge A lot of the critics I read (yes, I follow certain film reviewers like others might follow newscasters or sports columnists) have become increasingly jaded about writing a best-and-worst -of year end review.

Some have gotten to the point where they hate a Top Ten format, which only gets more serious as the current decade comes to a close and the summary judgments becomes more wide-ranging. I’ve never felt this pressure, choosing in the six years that I’ve filled this page, to only rank the exceptional film experiences that I’ve had. The 2009 road was long, remarkable, and filled with so much good that winnowing down the top results was no easy task. Here are my top picks of the year. They aren’t ranked in any particular order and I have yet to see many of the most talked about films. They sit still in my “To Watch” pile: 1. District 9 - without a doubt, the most unique film of the year and a delightful blend of comedy, action, science-fiction,

January 7, 2010

and the Holy Grail of the motion picture industry: unknown actors and filmmakers that get a chance to remind us of what making a movie is all about. Their passion came right through the screen into me. Hear me loudly, it would be an absolute shame to ruin it with a sequel.

2. The Hangover - I chuckle even now, six months later, over Ed Helms’s missing tooth, Tyson’s tiger, and the fact that this movie was still funny the third time I saw it opening week.

3. ulie & Julia - Meryl Streep is now as marketable as Will Smith and her year was brilliant with her starring turn as Julia Child likely to make her a shoo-in for a Best Actress nomination.

4. Up - Not just the best animated movie of my year (in a strong year for animated movies, I also love The Fantastic Mr. Fox), but the best movie overall. Pixar Rules!

5. Up in the Air - Clooney brought his movie star to the common man, a feat I didn’t think someone of his stature could do. And Anna Kendrick got herself noticed in a way that could yield big things for the

tiny starlet. Jason Reitman’s films are now among those I will most eagerly anticipate.

6. The Blind Side - a football drama hiding inside a family comedy? That’s too simple an explanation for something as noble and good (and I’m not even talking about the performances) as this movie is. I cried even harder the second time I saw it.

There it is. Six exceptional films were released this year and I had the opportunity see each and every one of them (more than once in several cases). The Hurt Locker, (500) Days of Summer, and Precious aren’t on this list because I haven’t planned a road trip to check them out yet. Amelia isn’t either, but only because I do know something most of America doesn’t: Hilary Swank’s performance was great, but this movie was a stinker that I fought to stay awake through.

For every horrible idea like Aliens in the Attic came a gem like Avatar, the most colorful movie that has ever been made. For every stale franchise (ugh, really? Saw VI?) came one that found new and great ways to stay fresh and for that I say long live Harry Potter!

Before I wrap it up with a nice bow, I

have to wonder out loud about a few of the highlights in store for us in 2010. Tim Burton and Johnny Depp will team up for a trippy 3D version of Alice in Wonderland.

Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte, and Miranda will bring Sex-y back to the big screen.

The ‘80s get a facelift with remakes of my childhood (Red Dawn, The Smurfs, The ATeam, Tron, and The Karate Kid) going for broke. Harry will start the final showdown against Voldemort and Tyler Perry will likely have a few films worth checking out. Not the boldest of predictions, I know, but safe bets nonetheless.

The box office was a big deal in 2009, and rightfully so. Grosses are up across the board from those films that opened big (New Moon or Transformers 2) or are given the gift of life--long legs to run (like Gran Torino or Taken). I will firmly attest to the fact that this industry provided many new challenges and lots of surprises this year for those of us working in it. It will end on a strong note. In case you were doubting it, New Year’s Eve is a great time to go to the movies. And I know I’ll be there.

The Edge – Page

9

Family

Hitting the open road If it’s your dream, then the 33rd Annual St. Louis RV Vacation and Travel Show is for you

By DEBBIE SETTLE Of The Edge

January 7, 2010

Nothing like hitting the open road with no cares in the world, heading wherever suits your fancy. Especially if you are on the open road in a luxury RV with all the latest amenities.

So you may never experience carefree living completely, but you can think about owning one of the many varieties of RVs offered. At least check them out at the upcoming RV show.

The 33rd Annual St. Louis RV Vacation and Travel Show will take place Jan. 14 through Jan. 17 at America’s Convention Center, at 701 Convention Plaza, in downtown St. Louis.

After a year that has been somewhat down for many in the industry, the St. Louis area dealers are reporting that the Midwest RV and camping lifestyle is still thriving and growing.

Whether it is the idea that you can take your accommodations with you wherever you decide to vacation or the economy of camping on the spur of a moment rather than making reservations at costly resorts and hotels, people are taking another look at RVing.

St. Louis RV dealers are looking forward to an upward year in 2011. Nationally, the RV industry has recently seen signs of an upswing. Orders from dealers to manufacturers have increased in the fall and the lending institutions have stabilized.

The chairman of this year ’s show, Glenn

Thomas, of Bill Thomas Camper Sales in Wentzville, Mo., says “Dealers saw great interest in their products at the annual Fall RV Show in September and were uplifted by the success of that event.” According to Thomas, traffic at dealers’ lots in the St. Louis area was good to very good in the fall. He says, “People have discovered this is a much more affordable way of camping, travel and families being together and sharing the outdoors.

They’ll find this is a good time to buy because people will find pre-season deals and great savings on all types of RVs.” Nearly 300 vehicles are expected to be on site at the show, featuring nearly every style of recreational vehicle. On display and for sale will be motorhomes, fifth wheels, travel trailers, sport utility trailers, van campers, folding camping trailers and truck campers.

There are also exhibitors representing campgrounds, resorts, travel destinations as well as RV products and services.

The hours of the event will be on Thursday, noon to 9 p.m.; Friday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; and Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Regular admission is $8; Children ages 6 to 12 years are admitted for $3.50; Ages 5 and under are free.

On Thursday and Friday, Seniors age 60 and over are admitted for $5.

More information can be obtained from the Web site at www.stlrv.com or by calling 314355-1236.

The Edge – Page

10

The Arts

Ricky Skaggs Filling the Sheldon with bluegrass sounds

By DEBBIE SETTLE Of The Edge The name Ricky Skaggs more than likely rings a bell with country music fans. With hits in the ‘80s like “Country Boy” and “Highway 40 Blues,” Skaggs made a mark on the country music scene, enough so that he took home the “Entertainer of the Year” Country Music Association Award in 1985.

Many may have thought Skaggs just faded out of the music scene, but if you are a bluegrass fan, you know that not only has Skaggs not left the music business, he is at the top of his game.

Born in 1954 in Cordell, Ky., Ricky Skaggs’ father gave him his first mandolin when he was a very young child. Skaggs made his first live appearance at age 6 playing with bluegrass legend Bill Monroe. He later teamed up with the late Keith Whitley and both eventually joined the Ralph Stanley Clinch Mountain Boys.

He played with J.D. Crowe and the New South and later, the Emmylou Harris band. He then moved on to Nashville and was signed by Epic records to release his own debut, entitled “Waitin’ for the Sun to Shine,” in 1981. He then debuted at the Grand Ole Opry in 1982.

It was in 1997 that Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder released their debut album, “Bluegrass Rules.” That collaboration won the group a Grammy for Best Bluegrass Album.

Now, 2009 marks Skaggs’ 38th year as a professional musician. He is a 14-time Grammy Award winner, a seven-time Country Music Association award winner and has received numerous recognitions and awards from the International Bluegrass Music Association, Billboard Magazine, CMT, and others.

Kentucky Thunder is an all-star line-up of five musicians that play and tour with Skaggs.

Jim Mills of Raleigh, N.C. is on banjo. He has earned the “International Bluegrass Music Association’s Banjo Player of the Year” six times.

Paul Brewser of Knoxville, Tenn., is on rhythm guitar and at times sings lead and tenor. He has played with the Osborne Brothers, the Pinnacle Boys, the Dollywood bluegrass band and True Blue. He is an accomplished songwriter and solo artist.

Andy Leftwich of Whitehouse, Tenn., was extended an on-stage invitation to play his fiddle by Ricky Skaggs. He has played with the likes of Craig Morgan, Taylor Swift, Jon Randall, Jimmy Wayne, Trick Pony, Pam Tillis and more.

Cody Kilby of Cowan, Tenn., is not only a master guitarist, but had a Gibson Banjo endorsement by the time he was 11 years old. By the time he was 17, he earned the “National Flatpicking Championship,” playing his mother’s guitar.

While touring with Sally Jones and the Sidewinders, He caught the ear of Ricky Skaggs and joined Kentucky Thunder.

Finally, Mark Fain of Rogersville, Tenn., watched his family play music on his front porch. He learned to play bass, drums and guitar from the teaching of his uncles. He has played with a number of gospel groups, The Neelons, Gold City Gospel and others. He joins in with numerous other artists as a studio musician whenever he can.

The Sheldon will welcome Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder, on Friday, Jan. 15, at 8 p.m. in the perfect acoustics of the Sheldon Concert Hall. Ricky Skaggs has often said that he is “just trying to make a living” playing the music he loves. But it’s clear that his passion for bluegrass puts him in the position to bring this lively, distinctively American form of music out of isolation and into the ears and hearts of audiences across the country and around the world.

Don’t miss Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder, Friday, Jan. 15, at 8 p.m in the Sheldon Concert Hall. Tickets are $45 orchestra, $40 balcony and are extremely limited.

Call MetroTix at 314-534-1111 or at www.TheSheldon.org.

For more information, call The Sheldon at 314-533-9900 during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

January 7, 2010

For The Edge

Ricky Skaggs

The Edge – Page

11

Eden Village Wine Tasting & Silent Auction Join in the Fun... Friday, January 22nd 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm In the Eden Village Atrium $25 per person Call For Ticket Information (618) 205-4637

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The Arts

Coming Soon Liberty Village of Maryville

Arts calendar **If you would like to add something to our arts calendar, email it to theedge@edwpub.net.

Thursday, Jan. 7 â&#x20AC;˘ Film: Van Gogh: Brush with Genius, St. Louis Science Center, Forest Park, various times â&#x20AC;˘ The Language of Objects: New Works by Jane Birdsall-Lander and Jo Stealey, Sheldon Art Gallery, St. Louis â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;ŻDeck Your Walls exhibit, Main Street Art Gallery, 237/239 N. Main St., Edwardsville â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;ŻIan Weaver Exhibition, Saint Louis Art Museum, Forest Park

Friday, Jan. 8 â&#x20AC;˘ Film: Van Gogh: Brush with Genius, St. Louis Science Center, Forest Park, various times â&#x20AC;˘ The Language of Objects: New Works by Jane Birdsall-Lander and Jo Stealey, Sheldon Art Gallery, St. Louis â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;ŻGregory Basco Exhibit, Mo. Bot. Gardens, St. Louis, Mo., Monsanto Hall â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;ŻDeck Your Walls exhibit, Main Street Art Gallery, 237/239 N. Main St., Edwardsville

Saturday, Jan. 9 â&#x20AC;˘ Film: Van Gogh: Brush with Genius, St. Louis Science Center, Forest Park, various times â&#x20AC;˘ The Language of Objects: New Works by Jane Birdsall-Lander and Jo Stealey, Sheldon Art Gallery, St. Louis â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;ŻGregory Basco Exhibit, Mo. Bot. Gardens, St. Louis, Mo., Monsanto Hall â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;ŻDeck Your Walls exhibit, Main Street Art Gallery, 237/239 N. Main St., Edwardsville

Sunday, Jan. 10 â&#x20AC;˘ Film: Van Gogh: Brush with Genius, St. Louis Science Center, Forest Park, various times â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;ŻGregory Basco Exhibit, Mo. Bot. Gardens, St. Louis, Mo., Monsanto Hall

Monday, Jan. 11 â&#x20AC;˘ Film: Van Gogh: Brush with Genius, St. Louis Science Center,

January 7, 2010

Forest Park, various times â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;ŻGregory Basco Exhibit, Mo. Bot. Gardens, St. Louis, Mo., Monsanto Hall

Tuesday, Jan. 12 â&#x20AC;˘ Film: Van Gogh: Brush with Genius, St. Louis Science Center, Forest Park, various times â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;ŻGregory Basco Exhibit, Mo. Bot. Gardens, St. Louis, Mo., Monsanto Hall

Wednesday, Jan. 13 â&#x20AC;˘ Film: Van Gogh: Brush with Genius, St. Louis Science Center, Forest Park, various times â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;ŻGregory Basco Exhibit, Mo. Bot. Gardens, St. Louis, Mo., Monsanto Hall

Thursday, Jan. 14 â&#x20AC;˘ Film: Van Gogh: Brush with Genius, St. Louis Science Center, Forest Park, various times â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;ŻGregory Basco Exhibit, Mo. Bot. Gardens, St. Louis, Mo., Monsanto Hall

Friday, Jan. 15 â&#x20AC;˘ Film: Van Gogh: Brush with Genius, St. Louis Science Center, Forest Park, various times â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;ŻGregory Basco Exhibit, Mo. Bot. Gardens, St. Louis, Mo., Monsanto Hall â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;Ż Wa t e rc o l o r C o l l a g e f o r m Abstract Realism course, Mo Bot Gardens, St. Louis, Mo.

Monday, Jan. 18 â&#x20AC;˘ Film: Van Gogh: Brush with Genius, St. Louis Science Center, Forest Park, various times â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;ŻGregory Basco Exhibit, Mo. Bot. Gardens, St. Louis, Mo., Monsanto Hall

Tuesday, Jan. 19 â&#x20AC;˘ Film: Van Gogh: Brush with Genius, St. Louis Science Center, Forest Park, various times â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;ŻGregory Basco Exhibit, Mo. Bot. Gardens, St. Louis, Mo., Monsanto Hall

Wednesday, Jan. 20 â&#x20AC;˘ Film: Van Gogh: Brush with Genius, St. Louis Science Center, Forest Park, various times â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;ŻGregory Basco Exhibit, Mo. Bot. Gardens, St. Louis, Mo., Monsanto Hall

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Thursday, Jan. 21 â&#x20AC;˘ Film: Van Gogh: Brush with Genius, St. Louis Science Center, Forest Park, various times â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;ŻGregory Basco Exhibit, Mo. Bot. Gardens, St. Louis, Mo., Monsanto Hall

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The Edge â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Page

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The Arts Artistic adventures FOTAD plans trivia night The 10th Annual Friends of Theater and Dance (FOTAD) Trivia Night is set for 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 16, at the James F. Metcalf Theater on the campus of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.

FOTAD is a support organization for the SIUE Department of Theater and Dance. The doors will open at 6 p.m., with the game scheduled to begin promptly at 7. Proceeds from the event benefit FOTAD’s student merit award fund for qualified SIUE students majoring in theater and dance at the University.

Winners of the competition will receive 1st ($160), 2nd ($80), or 3rd prize ($40) for scoring the most points per table. Reservations may be made for tables of eight. The evening will offer challenging trivia, during the regular question-andanswer sessions and during survivor trivia. Free popcorn and pretzels will be offered; also, soft drinks will be available for purchase.

Tickets are $10 per person; a table of eight, $80. A $40 deposit must be received by Jan. 16 to guarantee a table will be held. Make checks payable to the SIUE Foundation and send it to Greg Conroy, 217 N. Buchanan St., Edwardsville, IL 62025-1740.

To m a k e re s e r v a t i o n s , c a l l 618.692.0874; participants must arrive by 6:50 p.m. or their reservation may be given away, unless a 50 percent deposit has been received.

New Art in the Neighborhood program takes shape The Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis is excited to announce it is now accepting applications for the New Art in the Neighborhood (NAN) program for the Spring 2010 semester. New Art in the Neighborhood is a scholarship-based art training program for high school students in the St. Louis area. NAN provides the opportunity for teens from a variety of backgrounds and experiences to explore new media and contemporary issues while

working with professional artists and instructors.

Students in this program get the unique opportunity to meet with the artists exhibiting at the Contemporary, gaining insights into their creative process and finding out what it takes to be a working artist today. Past graduates from the New Art in the Neighborhood program have gone on to study art at leading institutions, exhibit their work throughout the Midwest, and create new venues for contemporary art.

New Art in the Neighborhood meets for twelve consecutive Saturdays during the school year from12:00 noon – 4:30 pm at the Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis beginning January 23, 2010.

Interested candidates should visit http://www.contemporarystl.org/ new_art.php for more information and to download the application.

As part of the application process, students are asked to write a short essay about why they would like to participate in the program, send two to three photocopies of examples of their artwork, as well as obtain a letter of recommendation from a teacher, employer, or other adult.

Applications must be received by December 4, 2009.

New Art in the Neighborhood is generously supported by Emerson; Missouri Arts Council, a state agency; the Employees Community Fund of Boeing St. Louis; and Bank of America Charitable Foundation.

U n i v e r s i t y ’ s E d i s o n T h e a t re .

The one-time-only performance, which begins at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 16, will launch Edison’s annual ovations for young people series, which presents specially priced matinees for audiences of all ages.

Ti c k e t s a r e $ 1 0 , t h o u g h subscriptions to all four ovations f o r y o u n g p e o p l e e v e n t s a re available for $6 each. Tickets are available at the Edison Theatre Box Office and through all MetroTix outlets. Edison Theatre is located in the Mallinckrodt Student Center, 6445 Forsyth Blvd.

For more information, call (314) 935-6543 or email edison@wustl. edu.

Circus INcognitus Combining a dancer ’s grace with a silent film star ’s manic e n e rg y, A d k i n s u s e s m o d e s t , everyday objects to fashion elaborate circus routines that are at once funny, breathtaking and surprisingly poignant.

The hour-long show begins with Adkins entering a dark and nearly empty stage, flashlight in hand, searching for a comically long light switch. Dressed casually

in baggy pants and suspenders, h e i s t o o s h y t o a d d re s s t h e waiting microphone but allows his physical gifts to speak for him as he struggles to articulate ideas about what a performance should be.

Things begin simply enough.

A ping-pong ball bounces on a wooden chair seat. A crumpled p i e c e o f p a p e r re f u s e s t o b e discarded. A bowler hat twirls up and down Adkins’ arms. Yet the routines grow increasingly spectacular and outrageous as Adkins duels with a pair of wildly roaming ladders and does handstands atop a not-so-verytight rope. “ T h o u g h M r. A d k i n ’ s b e s t routines draw OOHS and AHS, he is just as successful at drawing laughs,” notes The New York Ti m e s . T h e N e w Yo r k D a i l y Gazette adds that, “Adkins hasn’t reinvented juggling or clowning, he’s just made them more interesting to watch through the powers of personality and grace.”

Jamie Adkins Adkins began his career at the age of 13 as street performer in his native San Diego. He then

joined San Francisco’s Pickle F a m i l y C i rc u s , a n i n f l u e n t i a l cooperative that mixes traditional circus skills with music, drama, dance and humor (while eschewing live animals and other three-ring tropes).As a member of Cirque Éloize, which he joined i n 1 9 9 8 , A d k i n s w a s f e a t u re d in more than 500 performances of Excentricus, the company’s first international touring show.

He then teamed up with the Cirque Éloize offshoot Theatre T & Co. to produce and star in the screwball duet Typo (2004), which follows a Chaplinesque playwright struggling to outfox writer ’s block. Nominated for three Drama Desk Awards, Typo won the admiration of critics and audiences and toured the world for more than 200 performances.

Additional credits include a starring role in WinTuk, Cirque du Soleil’s annual winter holiday show, now in its third season at New York’s WaMu Theater.

His many honors include both the Annie Fratellinni Clown Prize and a Bronze Medal at the prestigious Festival International du Cirque de Demain in Paris.

Wash. U. to host Circus INcognitus Jamie Adkins can walk on wire, stand atop unsupported ladders, do handstands off the back of a chair and juggle just about anything.

But in Circus INcognitus, this internationally acclaimed clown, balancing artist and acrobat — a featured soloist with Cirque du S o l e i l a n d M o n t re a l ’ s C i rq u e Éloize — must attempt the one thing he fears most: public speaking.

Next month Adkins will bring Circus INcognitus, his family friendly solo show, to Washington

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The Edge – Page

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Travel Travel briefs Bon Appetit: Food specialty shops now offering in-store dining NEW YORK (AP) â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Food markets and specialty stores are no longer just places to buy supplies for making meals at home. Many now offer dining on the premises as well, according to Bon Appetit magazineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s December issue.

Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s good news for tourists, who may enjoy strolling through a famous food market but have no way to prepare or enjoy fresh produce or raw ingredients if theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re staying in a hotel.

Here are some of what Bon Appetit calls the best dining spots in stores around the U.S.: â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Surfas, in Culver City, Calif., a restaurant supply store with an adjacent cafe. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Oxbow Public Market, in Napa, Calif., which has five restaurants, plus a micro-winery, culinary bookstore, and specialty

tea store. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Il Cane Rosso, an eatery in San Franciscoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ferry Building Marketplace in the Embarcadero, where youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll also find retailers like Sur La Table and Culinaire antiques. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;B&G Oysters and The Butcher Shop, eateries that are among four foodie places in Boston, all at the intersection of Waltham and Tremont streets. The others are Stir, which offers cookbooks and a demonstration kitchen, and Plum Produce, a shop for specialty foods. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Midtown Global Market in Minneapolis, which offers more than 40 locally owned shops under one roof, including Taqueria Los Ocampo. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Despana, in New York City, a boutique in Soho specializing in the foods of Spain. But thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also a hidden lunch counter serving tapas, sandwiches and small-plate appetizers. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Bolsa in Dallas, which hosts a farmer â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s market and a cafe with wine and local products like chocolate, cookies and coffee.

Capitol Visitor Center sees 2.3 million visitors in first year WASHINGTON (AP) â&#x20AC;&#x201D; The Capitol Visitor Center has hosted 2.3 million people since opening a year ago on Dec. 2, 2008.

Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s twice the number of people who visited the Capitol in the year before the visitor center existed. In the past, before the center â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Exhibition Hall and Restaurant existed, people who visited the Capitol typically waited on line outside â&#x20AC;&#x201D; sometimes for hours â&#x20AC;&#x201D; for a tour. Now, visitors can make a reservation ahead of time for a tour, or they can even walk in and get on the next available tour.

The visitor center includes a 13minute film about Congress and the building of the Capitol, and the 16,500-square-foot Exhibition Hall offers unusual artifacts and documents related to Congress and

the Capitol.

The center premises include a 500-seat restaurant, gift shops and restrooms.

I n D e c e m b e r, t h e c e n t e r introduced a new attraction: On Wednesdays at noon, curators, historians and educators from the Capitol, National Archives, and the Library of Congress are giving 15minute talks about Congress and the Capitol. Lectures are free; no reservations required. The center plans to continue the 15-minute talks in 2010.

Also new is an audio tour of the visitor centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exhibition hall, available by using a cell phone, beginning at the plaster model of the Statue of Freedom, located directly in front of the entrance to the hall.

D e t a i l s a t h t t p : / / w w w. visitthecapitol.gov.

Jersey Shore for winter visitors: Not like the MTV show RED BANK, N.J. (AP) â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not summertime and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nothing like the MTV reality show.

But the Jersey Shore does offer plenty to do for visitors this time of year: Main Street shopping, outlet malls and holiday activities.

Jersey Shore Premium Outlets in Tinton Falls and Jackson Premium Outlets in Jackson both have bus departures from Manhattanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Port Authority and NJ Transit stops.

For Main Street shopping, check out Cookman Avenue in Asbury Park and the downtowns of Ocean Grove, Toms River, Spring Lake, and Red Bank. For antiques, hit Point Pleasant Beach for the Antique Emporium.

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The Edge â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Page

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Travel

Hitting the slopes is easier than you might think Hidden Valley offers skiing close to home

By DEBBIE SETTLE Of The Edge The “swoosh” sound of the skis coming down the slope, the cold damp burst of snow hitting your face, the laughter above your head of other skiers on the lift. Where are you? Vail? Lake Tahoe? How about Wildwood, Mo. Hidden Valley Ski Area in Wildwood has opened for the season and is ready for the winter athletes to hit the slopes.

This marks the ski area’s 27th season. The St. Louis area ski facility attracts skiers from throughout eastern Missouri and southern Illinois.

An extensive machine snowmaking system is used to cover the slopes at Hidden Valley with a deep blanket of white from December through March. Skiers, snow boarders and sledders alike are able to enjoy the white stuff at Hidden Valley, even when the rest of the local area is not.

While winter conditions vary from mild to brutal in the St. Louis area, the ski area’s 88 snowmaking machines are primed and ready to churn a fresh “crop” of snow whenever temperatures drop below freezing.

Ideally with low humidity and temperatures in the low 20s, the ski area can lay down a foot of snow in 24 hours. For every 10 degree drop in temperature, snowmakers can double the output.

By building a base of several feet by January, Hidden Valley can generally “weather” mild midwinter warm spells and operate into March most seasons.

Hidden Valley offers a number of events throughout the “ski” season. Either individuals or large groups can make their plans to head out and enjoy the many events.

Light Up Winter Nights While some may prefer to stay

January 7, 2010

indoors on a cold night, outdoor winter enthusiasts can revel in the night air at Hidden Valley, which is brightly illuminated

Day. Hidden Valley offers discounted rates many days, and special group rates all season.

rates Jan. 7 through Jan. 8; “Military Appreciation” is every day and “College Appreciation” every Wednesday.

For The Edge

The snow gun at Hidden Valley means the slopes are always ready for skiiers. by stadium lights. “Moonlight marathon” sessions are scheduled Friday and Saturday from 6 p.m. to 3 a.m., starting on Christmas

Beginners may want to come Feb. 2 for Learn-to-Ski Day at reduced rates. Police and firefighters can ski for nominal

The ski area also has added several colorful new events this season including a breast cancer awareness fashion show at 1 p.m.

on Saturday, Feb . 6 – wear pink and receive $5 off lift tickets or rentals.

Amenities at Hidden Valley include three chairlifts; stadium lights for night skiing; a gentle “carpet lift” for the beginner area; and a spacious ski and snowboard rental area. Overall facilities include a natural hill with a 310-foot vertical drop, a ski lodge and a restaurant.

Hidden Valley’s terrain encompasses multiple runs for all levels of skiing and snowboarding. In total, the ski area consists of about one-third beginner, one-half immediate and the remaining area dedicated to advanced and expert skiing and boarding.

As conditions permit, Hidden Valley creates “terrain parks” for snowboarders. Terrain parks provide the younger crowd of snowboarders with many of the same thrills they would find in larger ski areas in the West, including features such as “rails, boxes and jumps.”

Future plans include “snow tubing.” Hidden Valley is working with the local municipality, Wildwood, to add runs for “tubing” by next season. essentially swishing downhill in an over-sized inner tube, with no skills required.

Hours are 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Saturday; 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Sunday; 1 to 9:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday; and 1 to 10 p.m. Friday. Midnight sessions 10 p.m. to 3 a.m., Friday-Saturday, 10 p.m. to 3 a.m.

From I-44, take Eureka exit. Go north on Highway 109 for 3 1/2 miles; take a left onto Alt Road; travel 1 mile; take a right onto Hidden Valley Drive.

Information about rates and hours is available online at www. hiddenvalleyski.com, or call 636938-5373 or the Snow Line 636938-6999.

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Dining Delights

Blackeyed Peas Hoppin’ John a New Year’s favorite What’s with the Blackeyed Pea? Why does this little black-and-white legume garner so much attention during the New Year? Frieda’s Specialty Produce distributes thousands of Blackeyed Peas to p ro d u c e d e p a r t m e n t s a ro u n d the country each year, including Schnucks and Logli, in preparation for New Year ’s feasts featuring Hoppin’ John and other traditional comfort foods.

G ro w n a l l o v e r t h e w o r l d , Blackeyed Peas (BEPs for short) have a special place in Southern U.S. cuisine, where they are believed to bring good luck and traditionally eaten on New Year ’s Day. It is believed that the Blackeyed Peas’ reputation for luck may originate from the U.S. Civil War. Some say that when most of the food sources were destroyed and pillaged in the war-ravaged South, Blackeyed Peas provided sustenance, thereby earning their “good luck” status.

Whether cooking up a soulful pot of Hoppin’ John with Blackeyed Peas, bacon and collard greens, or whipping up a batch of Texas Caviar with BEPs marinated in dressing, Frieda’s high-quality, U.S.A.grown Blackeyed Peas are the key ingredient for a prosperous New Year’s feast.

Unlike other dried beans, Blackeyed Peas don’t require presoaking overnight and are relatively quick to cook. (A quick-soak method can be completed within 1 hour.)

And of course, no other legume can

January 7, 2010

deliver the earthy, creamy, savory and satisfying taste that BEPs have to offer. Not to mention their nutritious assets – Blackeyed Peas are an excellent source of calcium, folate, vitamin A, fiber and protein.

Try Frieda’s version of Hoppin’ John with a spicy kick from Habanero peppers: Frieda’s Hoppin’ John 1 6.5-oz. package Frieda’s Dried Blackeyed Peas, prepared according to package directions 11/2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice 41/2 cups water 1 Tbsp. fresh thyme, minced, or 1 tsp. dried thyme 1 bay leaf 6 strips bacon 1 cup onion, chopped 1 cup red or green bell pepper, chopped ½ cup celery, minced ¼ cup parsley, chopped 1 clove garlic, minced 1 Frieda’s Fresh Habanero Chile, seeded and finely minced (or Dried Habanero, reconstituted according to package directions) Salt and pepper to taste In a Dutch oven, place rice with pre-soaked Blackeyed Peas and water. Stir in thyme and bay leaf.

Cover and bring mixture to boil.

Uncover and reduce heat; simmer 15 to 18 minutes or until rice and beans are tender, checking to make sure mixture does not boil dry.

Meanwhile, in a medium skillet, cook bacon until crisp. Drain bacon on paper toweling reserving 2 tablespoons drippings in skillet.

Add onion, bell pepper, celery, parsley, garlic and chile to drippings in pan. Sauté about 3 minutes or until vegetables are tender. Crumble bacon; add to skillet. Remove from heat.

When rice and beans are done, drain off any excess liquid. Remove bay leaf. Stir bacon mixture into rice and beans. Add salt and pepper to

taste. Makes 4 servings.

Blackeyed Pea Salad Serve this salad at barbecues or over lettuce, mixed with juliennesliced cheeses or other vegetables for a simple main course.

6.5-oz pkg. Frieda’s Dried Blackeyed Peas, cooked according to package directions (makes 1 1/4 cups) 1 red or green bell pepper, seeded and chopped 2 Frieda’s Shallots, peeled and finely chopped 2/3 cup olive oil or vegetable oil 1/2 cup tomatoes, diced 1 tsp. fresh thyme, chopped, or 1/4 tsp. dried thyme, crushed 1 tsp. fresh rosemary, chopped, or 1/4 tsp. dried rosemary, crushed 1 clove garlic, minced 1/2 tsp. salt 1/8 - 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper In a medium bowl, stir together blackeyed peas, garbanzo beans, bell pepper, and shallots. For dressing, place remaining ingredients in blender or food processor; cover and process until smooth. Pour mixture over bean salad; toss well to coat.

Cover and chill 2 to 24 hours to blend flavors. Drain off marinade; serve at room temperature or chilled. Makes 4 servings.

Source: www.friedas.com Looking for more Blackeyed Pea recipes? Log on to www.friedas.com for more: Antipasto Bean Salad Blackeyed Pea & Garbanzo Salad Blackeyed Pea-Chicken Salad With Roasted Garlic Dressing Blackeyed Pea-Habanero Dip Chopped Salad with Blackeyed Peas Habanero Chile Chili Hoppin’ John Pasta y Fagioli (Pasta With Beans) Texas Burritos White Blackeye Chili Look for Dried Blackeyed Peas in your local grocery store’s produce department, or online at www. friedas.com

Photos couresty of Frieda’s Inc., Marliese Ward.

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NISSAN

January 7, 2010

The Edge – Page

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Passat Sed Passat Sed Passat Sed Passat Sed Passat Sed Passat Sed Passat Wag Phaeton Phaeton Phaeton Phaeton Rabbit Routan Tiguan Tiguan Touareg Touareg Touareg TOUAREG Touareg 2 Touareg 2

2009 2007 2007 2006 2006 2005 2007 2006 2005 2004 2004 2007 2009 2009 2009 2006 2006 2005 2004 2009 2009

$26,950 $20,950 Call $16,950 $13,977 $16,950 $19,950 $54,950 $33,950 $42,950 Call $16,950 $33,950 $32,950 $24,950 $29,950 $27,950 $25,950 $17,995 $44,950 Call

8332 116002-1 8388 99011-2 Y316 8151 8283-1 111111 8201 8216 96113-1 8282 8359 8089 8131 8158 8305 8360 T90517BB 8111 8392

Dean Team Volkswagen Dean Team Volkswagen Dean Team Volkswagen Dean Team Volkswagen Bommarito Volkswagen of St Loui Dean Team Volkswagen Dean Team Volkswagen Dean Team Volkswagen Dean Team Volkswagen Dean Team Volkswagen Dean Team Volkswagen Dean Team Volkswagen Dean Team Volkswagen Dean Team Volkswagen Dean Team Volkswagen Dean Team Volkswagen Dean Team Volkswagen Dean Team Volkswagen Dave Sinclair Buick Pontiac GMC Dean Team Volkswagen Dean Team Volkswagen

877-258-2931 877-258-2931 877-258-2931 877-258-2931 866 377 3110 877-258-2931 877-258-2931 877-258-2931 877-258-2931 877-258-2931 877-258-2931 877-258-2931 877-258-2931 877-258-2931 877-258-2931 877-258-2931 877-258-2931 877-258-2931 866-401-2564 877-258-2931 877-258-2931

C70 S40 S40 S40 S40 S60 S60 S60 S60 S60 S60 S60 S80 S80 S80 V40 V50 V70 V70 XC70 XC70 XC90 XC90 XC90

2007 2007 2006 2006 2005 2009 2007 2007 2007 2006 2006 2004 2008 2008 2006 2004 2006 2006 2004 2007 2006 2008 2007 2007

$31,848 $19,712 $18,812 Call $13,217 $25,923 $21,923 $20,849 Call $16,934 Call $13,878 Call Call $15,843 $9,373 $15,903 $22,462 $14,872 Call Call $36,537 $33,768 $29,950

V10058A 21371 21396 21352 21362 21391 21390 21376 8245-1 21272 21403 21354 21402 21404 21363 21325A 21320 21331 21372 21387 21398 21351 21392 8338

$15,996 $15,988 $15,788 $14,045 $13,995 Call $10,866 $8,995 $26,995 $26,988 $26,988 $24,495 $21,988 $18,998 $17,995 $12,990 $13,500 $16,488 Call $20,990 $20,495 $18,990 Call $17,988 $16,950 $15,995 $11,995 $23,488 $21,488 $21,995 $21,495 $20,688 $18,888 Call $5,995 $13,903 $28,995 $24,988 $22,988 $26,488 $17,995 $6,995 $14,333 $24,995 $22,988 $17,995 Call $24,988

T7769 T7798 T7799 T7627 15072 6998 21355 22832A 15074 T10519A T7801 T7707 T7777 P7052 15037 1941-1 4718-1 T7784 8358-5 100324A T7743 DP7100 15103 T10474A 114001-1 22789A 22861A T7755 T7811 T2012A T7693 T7847 T7813 118013-1 22886A 00044AA 15043 T7580 T7812 T10644A 15027 6909 V100035A 15082 T7868 15044 6967 T7789

January 7, 2010

15085 15095 T7698 T7736 15034 Y319 15041

VENGEANCE Dean Team Volkswagen

877-258-2931

VOLKSWAGEN 100638A 8227 Y292 8165 92005-1 8373 Y315A 7800-2 8243 8250 7797-1 7841-1 V100061A Y341 Z90561A 8366 V9042A 8362 8330 13017-1 V100095A 7511-2 21294A 6789 4765 7143A 100461B 8168 8164 P7223A 7910 DP7119 DP7070 10073B

St Louis Honda Dean Team Volkswagen Bommarito Volkswagen of St Loui Dean Team Volkswagen Dean Team Volkswagen Dean Team Volkswagen Bommarito Volkswagen of St Loui Dean Team Volkswagen Dean Team Volkswagen Dean Team Volkswagen Dean Team Volkswagen Dean Team Volkswagen Bommarito Volkswagen of St Loui Bommarito Volkswagen of St Loui Dave Sinclair Buick Pontiac GMC Dean Team Volkswagen Weiss Brentwood Volvo Dean Team Volkswagen Dean Team Volkswagen Dean Team Volkswagen Bommarito Volkswagen of St Loui Dean Team Volkswagen Weiss Brentwood Volvo Underwood Motors Federico Chrysler Dodge Jeep Crossroad Motors St Louis Honda Dean Team Volkswagen Dean Team Volkswagen Dave Sinclair Buick Pontiac GMC Dean Team Volkswagen St Louis Honda St Louis Honda St Louis Honda

877 584 1058 877-258-2931 866 377 3110 877-258-2931 877-258-2931 877-258-2931 866 377 3110 877-258-2931 877-258-2931 877-258-2931 877-258-2931 877-258-2931 866 377 3110 866 377 3110 866-401-2564 877-258-2931 866 801 9462 877-258-2931 877-258-2931 877-258-2931 866 377 3110 877-258-2931 866 801 9462 866 485 3136 877 817 9753 888 245 5532 877 584 1058 877-258-2931 877-258-2931 866-401-2564 877-258-2931 877 584 1058 877 584 1058 877 584 1058

VOLVO Weiss Brentwood Volvo Weiss Brentwood Volvo Weiss Brentwood Volvo Weiss Brentwood Volvo Weiss Brentwood Volvo Weiss Brentwood Volvo Weiss Brentwood Volvo Weiss Brentwood Volvo Dean Team Volkswagen Weiss Brentwood Volvo Weiss Brentwood Volvo Weiss Brentwood Volvo Weiss Brentwood Volvo Weiss Brentwood Volvo Weiss Brentwood Volvo Weiss Brentwood Volvo Weiss Brentwood Volvo Weiss Brentwood Volvo Weiss Brentwood Volvo Weiss Brentwood Volvo Weiss Brentwood Volvo Weiss Brentwood Volvo Weiss Brentwood Volvo Dean Team Volkswagen

866 801 9462 866 801 9462 866 801 9462 866 801 9462 866 801 9462 866 801 9462 866 801 9462 866 801 9462 877-258-2931 866 801 9462 866 801 9462 866 801 9462 866 801 9462 866 801 9462 866 801 9462 866 801 9462 866 801 9462 866 801 9462 866 801 9462 866 801 9462 866 801 9462 866 801 9462 866 801 9462 877-258-2931

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Classified Help Wanted Medical

308

Hitz Memorial Home is looking for a R.N. Full Time Day Charge Nurse and a Part Time LPN/RN. You may apply in person, Fax a resume to (618) 488-2361 or $500 REWARD! BRING HIM email to HOME FOR CHRISTMAS! sergle@hitzmemorial.com LOST: Meridian Rd., Timberwolfe Subdivision.

Large SHELTIE (like Lassie). 14yrs.-old. Help wanted Needs medication.

Office 315 618-205-3294

Lost & Found

125

FOUND yellowish tan & white 2 month old kitten, friendly in vicinity of 200 block W. Main, Glen Carbon. Minor injuries to mouth. Call 618-288-2639 or 618-288-2638 to claim.

PT CUSTOMER SERVICE REP/ BOOKKEEPER: must be customer-focused, multitasker, proficient with QuickBks, working knowledge of basic accounting principles. Exp. w/construction industry beneficial. Ferguson Construction: 288-7710

Situations Wanted Trucks, Vans, & SUV's

330

Gifted masseuse, services/prices vary. Call for details. Leave message@6182001 CHEVY TAHOE LT, 4WD, 606-0440. pewter/tan leather, moonroof, all power, OnStar equipped.

108,xxx.

Great condition. $11,500/OBO. 618/655-0249 (2/17/10)

Motorcycles

210

220

Carrier Routes 401

2004 PolaresATV, Predator90: CARRIER NEEDED! w/helmet. Excellent condition.

Low hours. $1,500/OBO. Rt. 3 - Newspaper carrier needed in the area of Randle St, 618/980-4564 Warren St. W High St, Grand Ave, N Charles. There are approximately 23 newspapers on this route. Papers need to be delivered by 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and by 8:30 a.m.

Help Wanted on Saturdays. If you are interGeneral 305 ested in this route, please call the Intelligencer at 656-4700 ext. 40.

COORDINATOR FT individual needed to man- Individual needed to deliver age a program providing ser- Madison County Homes books vices for people being released every other week. The area from prison and supervising includes: Edwardsville, Glen outreach workers. Lutheran Carbon, Maryville, Troy, Social Services of Illinois, Collinsville, E Alton, Wood CSAC: Metro East, 1616 W. River, Alton, Godfrey. Pick up Main St, Marion, IL 62959. books at the Intelligencer and Fax: 618-997-6843; Email: deliver to approximately 204 Michael.Davis@lssi.org or locations. Deliver needs to be John.Holmes@lssi.org. EOE done every other Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

Hiring Now! Route will take approximately 2 Warehouse Packagers, days to complete. Delivery Must pass background needs to be done during regular & drug screen. Call Toll-Free business hours. If interested, 1-877-800-JOBZ (5629) EOE please contact The NEED EXPERIENCED Edwardsville Intelligencer at UNDERGROUND MINERS 656-4700 ext. 20.

(EMT HELPFUL) FOR THE SOUTHERN ILLINOIS AREA. NEED INEXPERIENCED MINERS. MUST HAVE MSHA SAFETY TRAINING TO APPLY.

Help Wanted Medical

308

Dental Receptionist Do you have outstanding communication skills and experience in a dental office? Our growing dental practice is looking for you! This position entails patient education and scheduling, as well as financial and computer bookkeeping skills.

Be a part of a team providing dentistry in a caring environment. Excellent compensation.

Resumes to PO Box 21 Highland, IL 62249.

Misc.

Merchandise

426

DJ equipment carry case, PERFECT CONDITION. $100. Call 656-1322.

FIREWOOD: Oak, split, delivered and stacked, large amount $90. 618-667-2025.

Apts/Duplexes For Rent

710

Edwardsville - Silver Oaks II LUXURY 2 Bedroom W/ Garage, Sec Sys, New Fitness Center, $790/mo. Bluff View.

Immediate Availability (618)830-2613 www.vgpart.com

FIREWOOD: seasoned hard1 & 2 BR Aparttments available woods. 4ft.X8ft. stack, delivered January 2010; 50 Devon Ct., and stacked $100.

618/459Edw. Water/sewer/trash paid; 3943; 618/581-1487.

618-656-7337 or 618-656-4102 1 BR APTS: $675, incl. all util., in Edw, close to post office, banks, & shopping. 692-9284 leave msg.

Cleaning

532

FLOODING FROM BROKEN PIPE? We’re Fast! WET CARPET? We’re Fast! SEWAGE BACK-UP? We’re Fast! We’re Fast! Call 1-8OO FAST HELP (1-8OO-327-8435) for the fastest emergency CLEAN UP services in town. Home and property emergencies are all we do. Call 1-8OO FAST HELP 24 hours a day - WE’RE FAST!!

426

26” Stereo television $100 VERY GOOD CONDITION. 656-1322.

1 BR CONDO, cozy, remodeled: near 55/70; st. level, fp, aplnces, W/D hkup. $525/mo.: incl. w/s/t; lse, dep. No pets. 618-345-9131

Lake Front Homes For Rent or Sale! 3BD 2BA available. Pontoon Beach Location! Starting at $697 per/month. 618-7976034 Apply Online www.aboutarc.com <http://www.aboutarc.com> OAC

Commercial Space For Rent 720 3000 sf office space, Edw, near WalMart: ample prkng, rest rms.

8 offices, separate or together.

Negotiable. 618/692-1794

Office Space For Rent

725

Collinsville/Maryville-Hwy. 159 2 BDR duplex in Troy. Garage, Up to 1080 sq. ft., starting at w/d hookups, fenced yard. No $495/mo. (618) 346-7878 HOME CLEANING/HOME CARE (N.A. pets $590 month. 656-5674 www.osbornproperties.com cert): holidays min. 4 hrs., Mon.-Fri. Deep/light cleaning 2 bedroom apts, large, deck.

Edwardsville close to down$15/hour. Jill: 618/288-2573 town. Starting at $500 per mth.

Avlb immediately 618-980-6913

Houses For Rent

2 BR LOFT, newly remodeled: DW, micro, stove, frig, garbge disp, w/d hkup. New kit/ba/wi/dr $715 incl wt/sw/tr 618/593-0173

705

www.maryvilleilapartments.com

FSBO or lease. Exec. villa, Ginger Crk., Edw.: 4BR, 3BA, w/o wooded lot, sunrm., FR, formal LR/DR, wet bar. 618/977-5089

Now Available- 2 bdrm townhomes in Eville. Limited time only, $795 at Spyglass property. We have 3 other locations starting at $825. Restrictions apply. 618-692-9310 www.rentchp.com

Furnished Cottage w/lake view, 4’ White Pine Trees: delivered, suitable for 1 person. No smokplanted, mulched. $64.50 per ing, no pets. $400/mo. + dep, tree. Buy 10, get 1 free. Other utilities not incld. 618/288-9200 sizes/shade trees.

Call SILVER OAKS I (217)886-2316; leave message.

2 BR, 1 BA, washer/dryer hook Apts/Duplexes up, w/s/t included $655/mo.

Eddie Bauer Pac-N-Play—$45; For Rent 710 618-830-2613 www.vgpart.com White baby bed—$45; Storage closet, woodgrain—$45. 6181 excellent 3BR, 1200 sq.ft. TH: 288-1505.

Collinsville, near 157/70; 12 Roommates 712 FIREWOOD: No Junk wood- min. to SIUE. FP, DW, W/D, ceilSeasonal Oak. Delivered & ing fans, cable, sound walls, offStacked. $75.00 a row, 7’ wide st. prkng. Sm pets OK, yr. lse. FEMALE ROOMMATE to share 36” tall cut 16 inches. 288-7919 $780/mo. Ask discount pricing! 2-Bedroom 1-bath apartment, no pets.

Move in special. Sect. 8 ok. Edwardsville, $400month/includes utilities.

618/345-9610: AM/PM phone.

Avlb immediatley 217-556-5614.

January 7, 2010

JOB FAIR

715

1 Bdrm 1 bth apt. uptown Edw, main floor of house. 1 car gar. Commercial Space Available.

Nice space, $500mo + dep. 1yr 500-2400sq. ft. Can be used as lease, W/S/T incl 618-655-1338. office or wearhouse space.

Located on Kettle River Dr., 1 Bdrm Loft Style Apt, Main St., Glen Carbon. Was previously a Edw, w/t/s pd. All new, w/stove beauty & barber shop. 618-917& fridge. 1-year lease $575 9132 618/407-3139.

2 BR Quail Hollow - Glen Carbon Apt., w/d hk-ups $645. www.osbornproperties.com 2 BDR, 1 BA, Glen/off 162, quiet/ 618-346-7878 wooded area; remodld; w/d incl.; shed; all util. but elec. pd.; 2 BR Townhome: quiet Glen $650/mo. + dep. 618/307-4876 Cbn. area, Very Clean! All appliances. No pets. $675/mo.

2 BDR, 1 Bath, 116 N. Fillmore, plus dep 314-378-0513.

Edwardsville: W/D hookup; stove, refrig included. Pets OK. 2 BRs, Glen Cbn., Cottonwood Sub., w/d hk-ups, APTS starting $650mth. 618-401-4664 at $625, TH $675, LOFT $685, 2 BDRM 2 BA, completely DUP $715 (618)346-7878 remodeled: 400 S. Fillmore, www.osbornproperties.com Edwrdsvlle. $725/mo. + deposit, lease. 618-409-4925; 616-1124 2BR TOWNHOMES, Edw. 1.5 BA, w/d hook up, all kit appliances.

2 BR, full basemnt, frshly paint- No pets. $775 w/out gar, $820 ed, new carpet; stove, fridge w/gar. 618/659-2188; 978-2867 included; W/D hook-up. No pets. $850 + dep. 618/488-7785 3BR Very nice Duplex Eville, 2Ful BA, Gar. W/D hookups.

2BD 1BA all appliances includ- Ava Feb1. 1600sf new Jun ‘09. ing W/D. Quiet neighborhood, $1300/m 221 H st. 3093038459 pets okay. $695/month. AvailGlen Carbon 2 bdrm with loft able ASAP. 314-680-0681 family room. $625. No pets 2BR, lg. MBR w/walk-in closet; 344-1838.

CA, frig, DW, stove, W/D hookup, bsmt, quick access to Interstate, LERCH PROPERTIES — GOSHENSIUE. $800/mo. 618/580-3021 VIEW TOWNHOMES, GLEN CBN.: 2 BR, 1 BA, w/d facility, Glen Cbn. area, $525/mo. 2 BR Townhome, 1 BA & 1 half BA, w/d Furniture 410 hook up, $695/mo. 288-3108 Apts, Duplexes, & Homes New Luxury Apartments COUCH, 3 Tables, 2 LazyBoys, Visit our website Quiet residential neighborhood.

Armoire, TELEVISION: www.glsrent.com 656-2230 2 BR; all appliances incl. $1,000/OBO. wshr/dryer; w/s/t.

Collinsvle—1530 Franklin, frnt: 4 Call 618/978-5996 Garages available. $750/mo.

BR,clean, nice neighborhd, A/C, 2 BR units avlb—Collinsville frig, stve, w/d hook-up. $785/mo + Call 618-343-4405 or go to: Misc. dep. Look then call 288-0048.

Merchandise

Mobile Homes For Rent

Homes For Sale

Certified Nurse Assistants, Licensed Practical Nurses & Dining Service Workers Meridian Village is having a Job Fair for all LPNs, CNAs and Dining Service Workers.

Date: January 13th, 2010 • Time: 7:00am - 5:00pm Address: 27 Auerbach Place, Glen Carbon, Illinois, 62034 Please call Rob Luhrsen at 618.205.4237 for more details. Snacks and refreshments will be provided.

Interested LPNs, CNAs and Dining Service Workers should apply online at: www.LSSmo.apply2jobs.com Choose Meridian Village as the “Location” and click the search button.

A Lutheran Senior Services community, we share in an unmatched 150-year legacy of Christian service and financial stability.

Recently named “Best Place to Work in St. Louis,” in the St. Louis Business Journal.

805

Cross-Town or Cross-Country: EdwardsvilleHomes.com.

Home Buyers Relocation Services. Exclusively for buyers!

656-5588, 800-231-5588 Lease w/option to buy: 93K, 220 Summit Av., Glen Cbn. 2BR, lg. rms., CA, new aplncs & carpet; lg. fnced back yd 618/580-3021

GA

A9F=8=5B J=@@5;9 @IH<9F5B G9B=CF G9FJ=79G

Located @ 27 Auerbach Pl, Glen Carbon, IL Call Rob Luhrsen at 618-205-4237 for more details.

Apply online today at www.LSSLiving.org EOE

Positions For Hire

Our mission is to provide opportunities for persons with barriers to employment to work and live more independently in the community. We currently have the following opportunities:

Career Counselor

Location: Aftergut (Federal & State Residential Re-Entry Center) Provide career counseling to all residents and develop relationships with business to hire residents.

Bachelor’s degree required. Experience with case management and job development required, 1 year experience preferred.

Employment Specialist (EOS Placement)

Location: St. Charles Rehab Assist individuals to identify, obtain, and/or maintain employment commensurate with their social, psychological and medical needs and abilities. Assist consumers with any necessary paperwork such as applications, and pre- and post-employment paperwork. Identifies possible barriers to employment and/or job retention and makes the necessary recommendations. Maintains regular contact with the consumer. Maintains attendance records and monthly reports and submits on a timely basis. Maintains ongoing communication with referral sources. Assist with job coaching and bus training, as assigned.

Bachelor’s Degree in rehabilitation counseling, psychology, education or related field or work experience equivalent. Minimum of one year experience in working with individuals with disabilities.

On call Job Coach (Part-Time)

Location: Farmington Rehab Work onsite with individuals with developmental disabilities to assist in learning job tasks and acclimating to the work environment and co-workers through monitoring and providing instruction.

High school diploma required, Bachelor’s degree preferred. Experience working with individuals with disabilities required. Current Driver’s License and insurance required.

JRT Instructor/ Retention Specialist

Location: Lippman Assist individuals in obtaining and maintaining employment commensurate with their social, psychological and medical needs and abilities; assist employers to facilitate the successful employment of people with disabilities; provide classroom instruction to assist individuals with obtaining employment.

High School Diploma; combination of education and experience comparable to two years of college; two years work experience; ability to communicate well verbally and in written form; Bachelor’s Degree preferred.

Director

Location: North County Rehab Office Supervise Evaluation, Placement, Supported Employment, and Skills Training programs to monitor the flow of referrals and quality of services provided in the programs, maintaining relationships with referral and funding sources, and attending to revenue and expenses generated by the programs. The position will also include direct service duties with an active caseload.

Bachelor’s degree required, Master degree in Counseling or related field strongly preferred. Experience with case management and psychometric testing required, experience supervision of staff preferred.

To Apply, please visit us at www.mersgoodwill.org

The Edge – Page

22

Classified

PICTURE IT SOLD

Jewelry

922

John Geimer Jewelry 229 N. Main St. Edwardsville 692-1497 Same Day Ring Sizing Jewelry Repair Diamond & Stone Replacement

WE BUY GOLD AND JEWELRY Cleaning

958

Painting

960

2001 CHEVY TAHOE LT, 4 WD, Pewter/Tan Leather, Moon Roof, All Power, OnStar Equipped 108, xxx Miles, Great Condition $11,500/OBO 618-655-0249

Meeting & Exceeding your Expectations!

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL • Bonded & Insured • Customized Cleaning TRUSTWORTHY, ENERGETIC & PROFESSIONAL

(2/17/10)

Call us today for a free quote on a weekly, biweekly or monthly cleaning

Interior / Exterior Decks (Powerwashing and Staining) Wallpapering Woodwork (Staining and Varnishing)

Keith 654-5096 John 654-9978 Cell 618-971-7934

961

SCHON

Sunny Surface Cleaning • New Construction • Move In/Move Out Cleaning • Residential • BA Degree

Stove, microwave and fridge included. Queen in bedroom, couch makes into double bed, kitchen table makes into a single bed, A/C, heater, awning, shower/tub, toilet.

Clean and in good condition. $4,000 or best offer 1-618-972-8655 (2/24/10)

SELL YOUR CAR FOR LESS!

ONLY $39.00 PER LISTING CALL THE “ I ” 656-4700 January 7, 2010

• Free estimates • Licensed • Bonded

656-4520

A GENTLE TOUCH IN YOUR HOME GLEN CARBON & EDWARDSVILLE

Interview me....

Joyce Tel: 618-980-6858 Painting

960

JIM BRAVE PAINTING 20 Years Experience!

• Wallpaper • Specialty Painting • Inside or Outside Work • Power Washing • Deck Refinishing Call: (618) 654-1349 or cell phone: (618) 444-0293

Pick The Service You Need From The Classifeds!

• Mowing • Fall Clean-Up • Fertilizing • Landscape Installation • Landscape Maintenance 656-7725 GatewayLawn.com

966

Garner’s

MASTER CRAFTSMAN Carpentry, 30 Years Decks, Garages, Remodeling, Home Repair Basement Finishing Ceramic Tile Small Jobs Welcome Reasonable Rates Insured Andy 618-659-1161

Air Conditioning/ Heating 976

Foster & Sons Lawn Service Lawn Cutting & Trimming Tree Removal Bush & Shrub Trimming &

Proudly servicing the area for over 25 years.

Removal Landscape Mulching

Fully Insured

Free estimates Financing available Repairs and installations

618-459-3330 618-973-8422

Call us for all of your heating and cooling needs.

Residential & Commercial

Handyman

969

#1 Handyman Service in the Nation

Bonded & Insured Background Checks On All Technicians & 15+ Years Experience Professional, Safe & Reliable

ON TIME. DONE RIGHT. ®

618-659-5055

www.mrhandyman.com

RON GARNER CERTIFIED ARBORIST

656-5566 967

BREWSTER LANDSCAPING AND EXCAVATING Specializing In ........

• Landscaping • Snow Removal • Retaining Walls • Excavation • Grading • Hauling • Brush Removal • Seed and Sod Free Estimates Fully Insured (618) 977-6409

969

www.garwoodsheating.com

Home Improvements

979

SKILLED CRAF TSMAN

Since 1974 Licensed - Bonded - Insured Tree & Stump Removal Complete Property Maintenance Bucket Truck Track Hoe - Bob Cat

Lawn & Home Care

Handyman

656-9386

TREE SERVICE INC.

ATTENTION CONTRACTORS & MANAGERS!

1987 Yellowstone 38 ft. Fifth Wheel Travel Trailer

Serving Edwardsville since 1978 • Roofing • Siding • Aluminum soffit & fascia • And etc.

Tree Service

COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL

Insured

Roofing & Siding

(618) 920-0233 www.pristine-cleaning.biz

967

HUG PAINTING

CONSTRUCTION, INC.

PRISTINE CLEANING

Lawn & Home Care

BOB’S HANDYMAN SERVICE Remodeling & Repair Drywall Finished Carpentry Painting Ceramic tile Build & Repair Decks Exterior House And Deck Washing Landscaping Blinds & Draperies Light Fixture & Ceiling Fans No Job Too Small Insured Call Bob Rose 978-8697

LET ME FIX IT! HANDIMAN SERVICE • Carpentry • Pressure Washing • Lighting & Ceiling Fans • Drywall • Painting • Windows & Doors

Call Lee: (618) 581-5154

* $30 PER HOUR *

• Home Improvements • Remodeling • Custom Woodwork • Small Engine Repair • Insured Contractor W.R.N. SERVICES SERVICES

(618) 974-9446 Electrical

981

Randy Moore Repair Service, Inc. “24 Hour Emergency Service” 35 Years Experience - Troubleshooting - Service Repairs And Upgrades - All Electrical Items - Install Lights & Fixtures - Complete Rewire

www.randymoore repairservice.com

618-656-7405 Cell 618-980-0791

Find The Service You Need In The Classifieds!

The Edge – Page

23

Television Blagojevich joins "Celebrity Apprentice" Maybe not so interesting: the comedian-actor Sinbad and Australian TV chef Curtis Stone.

“I’m certainly not a household name,” said comedianauthor Carol Leifer, but she sounded confident. “I’m not surprised that Joan Rivers won (last season), because, as a standup comic, you’re a one-man band — it makes you very prepared for stressful situations to be able to react to a lot of pressure. Humor is a weapon anywhere and everywhere!”

Former Poison vocalist Bret Michaels declared that, with a party-hearty rock singer’s image, he would be assessed as the season’s “super-underdog.”

“But I’ve been my own boss since I’ve been 19 years old,” said the 46-year-old former star of the “Rock of Love” reality show. “For better or worse, I’ve been on my own, I’ve learned to roll with the punches.”

Then the pro wrestler-actor who calls himself Goldberg issued fair warning.

“I know I’m going to explode during this show at some point and say things I probably don’t mean,” he said. “I

NEW YORK (AP) — Donald Trump boasted that the upcoming season of “The Celebrity Apprentice” is the best ever and promised the star power of its cast “blows ‘Dancing With the Stars’ away.”

Yes, it’s a new cycle for the Trump-hosted competition show, which won’t premiere until March 14 but threw an introductory news conference way back last October, with sworn-to-secrecy members of the media meeting the contenders.

Now NBC says it’s time to unveil that roster of 14 participants, who will likely spur responses ranging from “Wow!” to “Huh?” Maybe the most interesting (to use Trump’s pet adjective) participant is former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich. Vaulted to infamy by headlines and punch lines, he is charged with scheming to auction off President Barack Obama’s former U.S. Senate seat, campaign fundraising abuses and other offenses. He was removed from office last January, but has denied wrongdoing.

realize that about myself. I’m human and have flaws.”

Baseball great Darryl Strawberry, rock-star wife and TV personality Sharon Osbourne, and Olympic gold-medal sprinter Michael Johnson will also be competing, along with singer Cyndi Lauper, actress Holly Robinson Peete and Victoria’s Secret model Selita Ebanks.

As they spoke, the contestants were scheduled to begin taping “Celebrity Apprentice” the next day, and WWE wrestler-model Maria Kanellis was asked if they were already sizing up each other.

“Of course, we are!” she replied.

The celebrities won’t be vying for a job with Trump, as in the old, civilian-cast “Apprentice,” but instead will compete in business-oriented tasks around Manhattan to raise money for (and publicize) their favorite charities.

“I live a fairly normal life. I’m a mom with two kids,” said Olympic swimmer Summer Sanders, who is championing the Right to Play, an organization that uses sport and play to improve the lives of disadvantaged children.

Shopper Stoppers “Why Trust Your Repair To Just Any Body Shop?”

Hardwood • Ceramic • Vinyl • Carpet • Laminate • Natural Stone

excellence guaranteed

13x13 Laufen Roca 12x12 CERAMIC TILE Sedona Ocre Marazzi Verona Porcelain Tile Ceramic Tile Close-Out Cartons

Insurance Claims Specialist FREE ESTIMATES • 24 HR. TOWING NOW AVAILABLE - CAR DETAILING Packages Starting At $29.99

Caulk’s Collision Center 7157 Marine Rd. • Edwardsville 618-656-1093 Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-5pm

O Inventory Clearance Sale! utlet

69

¢ per

39

¢ per

sq. ft.

12x12 Peel & Stick Vinyl Tile 39¢ per sq. ft.

OF COSMETOLOGY • Classes for Men and Women • Day & Evening Classes Available • Financial Assistance If Eligible Pell Award Will Cover Almost Entire Tuition

REGISTER NOW FOR UPCOMING CLASSES!

We Also Feature: You must register 1 month • CEU Training • Instructors Training in advance of next session

333 S. Kansas Edwardsville

656-2593

Close-Out Cartons 3/4”

1

$

99per

sq. ft.

Solid 3/4” x 3” Oak Plank

sq. ft.

CARPET

HARDWOOD ALVAREITA’S COLLEGE

99

¢per

starting at

Close-Out Cartons

¢ per

sq. ft.

Textured Stain Resistant Plush

89 99¢ 2 INSTALLED SOLID $

per sq. ft.

per sq. ft.

Textured Saxony Oak Plank Gunstock or Saddle INSTALLED w/Pad

5

$

99 per sq. ft.

1

$

12’ Wide Congoleum Resilient Sheet Vinyl 89¢ per sq. ft.

LAMINATE

Textured Loop Pile

69

sq. ft.

59sq.perft.

starting at

79

¢ per

sq. ft.

7 Colors w/20 Year Warranty

69 1 3 Colors INSTALLED $

per sq. ft.

MARK

THE TRUSTED MUFFLER PROFESSIONALS

SHOP

Since 1983

AUTO REPAIR BRAKES OIL CHANGE ALIGNMENT For All Your Automotive Needs Call

692-0700 Geothermal Heating & Cooling

“Let the Ground you walk on Heat and Cool your home.”

Geothermal energy is recognized by the Environmental Protection Agency as the most energy-efficient system on the market!

TAX CREDITS MAY APPLY!

Find Out More! Call Today!

• Heating • Cooling • Air Quality Products

633-2244

w/FREE Underlayment

2

$

99 per sq. ft.

415 East Vandalia Street Edwardsville, IL 62025

50% Off reg. All carpet remnants • 60% Off reg. Vinyl remnants select • 70% Off reg. Pallet Close-out merchandise

M F www.finishingtouchdecorating.com

HURRY IN WHILE SUPPLIES LAST!

Help Make A Birthday Wish Come True with Flowers from

HOURS: Mon.-Wed.-Fri. 9am-7:30pm Tue. & Thurs. 9am-5:30pm Sat 9am-4pm

Floor Design Center & Outlet Blinds and Shades • Furniture • Custom Draperies Accessories • Design Services

January 7, 2010

Mark Vallow Seth Renken

656-7788

222 First Ave., Edw.

Call 656-9292

www.vallowfloor.com

www.billsmontclairefloral.com

1009 Plummer Drive • Edwardsville (Hwy 157 Across from Bella Milano) The Edge – Page

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