CN: January 3, 2018

January 3, 2018

A look back at 2017

Around Town

Hazelwood’s Community Enrichment Commission hosts 16th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Tribute. P.7

School

Ferguson-Florissant high schools receive National Athletic Trainers’ Association Safe Sports School award. P.8

Food Submitted photo St. Louis County Council District 1 representative Hazel Erby stands with Vinita Park Mayor James W. McGee and Village of Vinita Terrace Chairman Dan Clasby during the merger ceremony of Vinita Park and Vinita Terrace on May 10.

The Community News reviews the year that was for St. Louis County Looking back, 2017 was an eventful year here in St. Louis County. As we flip the calendar to 2018, we at the Community News thought it would be a good time to look back at what transpired over the past 12 months. We have collected the highlights and remember all of the difference-makers in our community in 2017.

JANUARY Heat Up St. Louis keeps area warm

“We all work together to help someone get their bills in line and turn the heat on,” she said. “There are seniors who are freezing and they don’t know whether to pay the utility bill or get medicine. We don’t want people to have to make these life-or-death choices. We are all in this together. It is not to anyone’s advantage to have someone die because they are afraid to turn the heat on. At the end of the day, you want a community that is healthy where nobody is dying because they are cold.

FEBRUARY Tuning in success

competition is a high honor, especially since KRHS TV is the only high school station in the country to have achieved consideration for Best TV Station Manager, Best Television Creative Services Director, Best TV Station Faculty Adviser (Jane Bannester), Best (TV) Sports Program and Best Sports Play-ByPlay Broadcast.

“We are very proud of our broadcast students,” said Bannester, radio, and TV broadcast teacher and advisor. “Watching them set goals for high achievement at the beginning of the year, and then going beyond that mark, has been a great learning experience for our students. I love their excitement for their work.”

MARCH Mapping your St. Louis

The New Year always starts off cold and for the past 17 years, Heat Up St. Louis has been helping to find heating solutions for the poor, senior and disabled residents of St. Louis and 13 surrounding counties.

Heat Up St. Louis Board Chair Melanie DiLeo said the organization worked closely with social services, other nonprofits and utility companies to find the best solutions for those in need.

Fresh fruit flavors. P.9

Movie

‘Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle’ honors the original.

P.16

Weather FRIDAY Mostly Cloudy 33/18

Six Ritenour High School students traveled to New York to receive recognitions for their work with the school’s TV and radio stations, KRHS-90.1 FM and KRHS TV. Being asked to attend the 2017 Intercollegiate Broadcasting System (IBS) Trophy Awards program as finalists in the

SATURDAY Mostly Cloudy 41/22

A pop-up interactive exhibit created through a partnership between the Center See ‘A LOOK BACK’ page 2

Serving North & Northwest St. Louis County | FREE Online at mycnews.com | Vol. 97 No. 1 | 636-379-1775

SUNDAY Wintry Mix 39/17 FirstWarn Weather

prepared by meteorologist Nick Palisch. For the latest updates visit www.facebook.com/nickswx.

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Around Town CORRECTION

In the Dec. 27 edition of the St. Louis County Community News the top two photos on the page were incorrectly identified as being a part of St. Norbert Catholic Church. They were actually from the Room at the Inn site in Bridgeton. Also, all photos were taken by Charlotte Beard. The Community News regrets the error.

PLEASE RECYCLE INSTEAD OF THROWING ME AWAY

Get your event or good news published in Community News: email your information in calendar and article formats to editor@mycnews.com.

January 3, 2018 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

‘LOOK BACK’ from cover of Creative Arts (COCA) and Jer Thorp’s Office for Creative Research gave participants a chance to draw their own experiences of the city on giant 10-foot by 10-foot maps.

The St. Louis Map Room used robots, infrared lights, and complex data overlays to provide the foundation for visitors to create their own map based depictions of the city.

“We focused on what happens when people author their own maps, but do it on a large scale,” said Thorp. “The size of the maps allows them to become these really physical surfaces for collaboration and discussion.”

APRIL Fighting for kids

Former world kickboxing champion Earnest Hart shares a lot with his students at Logos School – his time, his skills, his knowledge, his life experiences and real understanding that life is full of adversity and challenges.

But Hart said there is one thing in particular that he is most proud of giving his students.

“I am giving them hope and showing them that there is a different way of getting things done,” he said. “They know you don’t have to be a tough person to be good. I have given them the tools to succeed.”

MAY Joining together

On May 10 the staggering number of municipalities in St. Louis County got a little bit smaller when the city of Vinita Park and the village of Vinita Terrace officially merged, marking the first municipal merger in the county in recent history.

The merger was approved by voters in November 2016 after lots of work by both communities and with help from nonprofit Beyond Housing.

“The merger is a community-driven effort and the result of months of tireless effort by our elected officials to communicate the benefits to our residents,” said Mayor James W. McGee, city of Vinita Park. “By becoming part of Vinita Park, Vinita Terrace residents will keep the local representation they desire and obtain new professional, fulltime services such as public works, clerks, financial services and free trash service.”

JUNE Fresh in Ferguson Since 2002, the Ferguson Farmers Market has provided farmers and local artisans with a venue to share their produce and products with visitors from the surrounding communities. Fifteen years strong, the market still runs in Ferguson’s Victorian

Plaza; a bustle of hungry families and community regulars who attend the market as a weekly ritual. Special events and live music keep the atmosphere fresh each week, and while the farmers and vendors tend to stay consistent, there is something new to be seen with each visit.

“We try to keep it pretty similar, but it varies a little each year,” said Marveena Miller, Manager of the Ferguson Farmers Market. “We have a special event and a band each week. We have everything from farmers to vendors selling jewelry, pasta, candles and garden stepping stones. We just got approved for our liquor license, so we’ll be able to have wine tastings and beer for German Fest and some fun events like that.”

JULY Bridging the hunger gap

Summer school students at McNair and Grannemann elementary schools got to look forward to a healthy meal each day they attended classes this summer, thanks to a partnership between Empower North County, the Hazelwood School District and the St. Louis Area Food Bank. The efforts of volunteers and school faculty ensured that a free, well-balanced lunch was made available to every student that was involved in summer classes at each of the schools.

Empower North County is a nonprofit organization that was founded in early 2015

by Melissa Fitzgerald and Kyle Rainbolt of Trinity Church. They decided they wanted to extend their reach further into the community, and have since been hosting an affordable Christmas store and offered free lunches to kids last summer out of the church itself. After considering their options for how to increase the number of kids they could provide lunches to this summer, they decided to connect with the Hazelwood School District.

AUGUST Library turns the page

As part of the Your Library Renewed campaign, the Florissant Valley Branch Library, located at 195 New Florissant Rd, S, in Florissant, closed its doors in 2016 to have its interior completely revamped. The library, which reopened its doors on Aug. 2 after almost a year’s worth of renovations, now

boasts plenty of new, exciting features that make it a destination spot for community members of all ages.

Among the most exciting additions is the lower level, which has been completely overhauled as an area for children and toddlers. A board with magnetic letters, a pneumatic tube display and giant touch screens adorn the walls of the new Emerson Discovery Zone, is proving to already be a hit among young library goers. The Dana Brown Early Explorer’s Area offers plenty of opportunities to toddlers for educational playtime with interactive panels and reading nooks.

SEPTEMBER Honoring a local hero

A very special inductee to Ritenour High School’s Hall of Fame was honored with a ceremony at the school on Sept. 15. Sgt. 1st Class Cory Remsburg, who graduated from the school in 2001, was chosen to join the collection of portraits in light of his achievements as a U.S. Army Ranger and his remarkable recovery from critical injuries sustained during his 11th deployment in Afghanistan in October 2009. “[Cory] suffered a traumatic brain injury, and he could have very well given up, but he kept right on,” said Jerry Nolen, Activities Director at Ritenour High School. “He has been working hard, and he has been out fundraising for the organizations that helped him. He exemplifies everything that we try to instill in our students here. His dedication to serve our country, his responsibility there, the excellence that he showed as a ranger, his attitude and his perseverance in healing and getting better. Instead of folding, which he very well could have done, he said ‘I’m going to make it and I’m going to come back.’”

OCTOBER A street reborn

Developments on a half-mile segment of Pasadena Avenue in North St. Louis County began as part of a revitalization project through the community development organization Beyond Housing.

The $5.6 million venture aims to transform the stretch of road into one more visually appealing and better-suited to the needs of the surrounding community.

The Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District (MSD) contributed $3.1 million to the plan through its MSD Project Clear initiative, which aims to help manage stormwater and prevent backups in areas through the use of greenspace and bioretention basins. The other $2.5 million has been committed by the 24:1 Community Land Trust. The project is expected to be completed by summer of

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • January 3, 2018

Around Town

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St. Louis Regional Traffic Safety Council presents awards to Hazelwood police officers The St. Louis Regional Traffic Safety Council recently held its annual awards luncheon and honored two city of Hazelwood police officers for their countless hours of dedication keeping local roadways safe and educating students about the usefulness of math skills as well as the importance of using seat belts. P.O. Scott Schnurbusch received the 2017 Education Officer of the Year award and P.O. Mike Monticelli was presented with the 2017 Traffic Safety Officer of the Year award.

On Dec. 7, 2011, Schnurbusch was assigned to the Hazelwood Police Department’s Traffic Management Team. Since then, he has worked numerous hours in non-traffic enforcement activities, such as community meetings, civil disturbance responses, various teaching and training assignments, office tasks, court appearances, court bailiff duties, investigations and special details.

Schnurbusch has a desire to improve relations between students and police, and strong aspirations to instruct and teach others. In 2014, he contacted the heads of the Math and Science Departments at Hazelwood West High School. He proposed the idea of showing students and educators how science and math can be used in crash investigations. During his presentations, students learn mathematical formulas which are used in crash reconstructions. He gives sample problems which allows them to determine the speed, velocity, acceleration/deceleration rates and kinetic energy. These classroom visits also give Schurbusch the opportunity to drive home the message of using seat belts and not texting while they’re driving.

Another high school project Schnurbusch is working on involves school administrators, the National Honors Society and the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT). The program is called “Street Smart.” It is presented by local paramedics and gives students a graphic lesson in the trauma caused by vehicle crashes, as well as practical exercises which demonstrate the dangers of impaired/distracted driving and promotes the importance of using seat belts.

For Schnurbusch’s commitment to traffic safety, and efforts to keep our most vulnerable drivers safe through engagement and teaching, he was chosen as the 2017 Education/Innovation Officer of the Year winner.

Monticelli was assigned to the Hazelwood Police

Photo courtesy city of Hazelwood At a recent awards luncheon, the St. Louis Regional Traffic Safety Council presented P.O. Scott Schnurbusch with the 2017 Education Officer of the Year award and P.O. Mike Monticelli with the 2017 Traffic Safety Officer of the Year award. Pictured (from left) are Sgt. Norm Mars, P.O. Schnurbusch, P.O. Mike Monticelli, and Capt. Jim Hudanick.

Department’s Traffic Management Team on Aug. 5, 2005. In addition to having a reputation of being dependable, self-motivated and trustworthy, he has made a major contribution to keeping local roadways safe. His general, daily efforts and activities have contributed to the enhancement of traffic and pedestrian safety throughout the city.

In addition, Monticelli’s responsibilities involve other duties such as fatal crash reconstructions, leaving the scene accident follow-ups, and public relations efforts.

Another important task his fulfills is being the lead advisor with Hazelwood Police Department’s Explorer Post 9217. He is a mentor to the young men and women in the post, and he coordinates annual Traffic Stop training for all Explorers in the St. Louis area.

Monticelli is a model employee who wears many hats. He is successful in all of his endeavors, managing his time well

and handling his assignments professionally and with enthusiasm. It is for these reasons and other exemplary characteristics, he was chosen for the 2017 Traffic Safety Officer of the Year award.

‘A LOOK BACK’ from page 2 2018, and will result in a safer and more beautiful space for Pine Lawn and Northwoods residents.

really depend on the individuals, the businesses and the community to help us.”

NOVEMBER Sharing the feast

DECEMBER Working towards better policing

For the 18th year the St. Ferdinand Thanksgiving Dinner (SFTD) continued its mission – “a parish organization which brings together volunteers from area churches to serve a free, Thanksgiving Day dinner to the community. We invite all faith traditions to join with us to give thanks for our blessings and share a meal.”

The dinner took place on Thanksgiving Dayat St. Ferdinand Catholic Church in Florissant.

Ellen Lutzow, President of the SFTD committee, shared past attendance. “A lot of the older folks who come [to the dinner] really enjoy talking to some of the younger ones. A lot of folks are lonely and don’t have any place to go or can’t afford to. We’ve fed fair number also of families who can’t afford Thanksgiving dinner.

This is a way to make sure that they get to enjoy a really nice meal. We have turkey with all the trimmings. Everyone is invited – it’s all free. We

Community leaders and the law enforcement community in the St. Louis area are working together to improve policing across the region At the Berkeley City Hall, a monthly meeting with the St. Louis Area City/County Managers Association (SLACMA) was held where members of the Municipal League of Metro St. Louis, voted unanimously to approve a new law enforcement agreement to bring regional consistency to police departments. The agreement will ensure best practices for St. Louis County. There were approximately 100 meeting attendees.

Executive Director for the league, Pat Kelly, shared, “It speaks volumes that the membership approved [this agreement] unanimously. This is something that from the small cities to the big cities, the statement they want to make to the public is ‘we’re trying to re-achieve the standard.’”

www.valleyind.net

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Around Town

January 3, 2018 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Hazelwood City Council votes to terminate contract with Robertson Fire Protection District After a lengthy attempt by the Hazelwood City Council to negotiate in good faith with the Robertson Fire Protection District (RFPD) about a possible fire services merger to relieve the city of an unsustainable financial burden, the council voted to terminate its contract with the RFPD. Effective Jan. 1, 2019, the city of Hazelwood will be providing fire and EMS services to residents living in the area once served by the RFPD. Hazelwood City Council members believe this should have been the arrangement when the city first annexed the area. But the area was technically within RFPD’s jurisdiction, so the city entered into a contract in 1994 calling for the city to make payments to the district – on behalf of the residents – for their fire and ambulance services.

For the past 23 years, Hazelwood has faithfully made payments to the RFPD in accordance with the formula established by the contract. However, the city’s payments have increased from $1,160,946 annually in 1995 to $3,570,062 in 2017, an increase of 206 percent. This is mainly due to the fact that RFPD has increased its property tax rate to $2.54 in just 23 years.

“We have been pleased with the quality service that RFPD has provided for our residents in its jurisdiction. We wish we could have found a way to re-negotiate the contract so it would mutually benefit both parties,” Hazelwood Mayor Matthew Robinson said. “But the city cannot sustain paying nearly four million dollars a year for RFPD to provide fire and EMS services on top of paying for its own fire department.”

Over the past number of years, the city of Hazelwood has been forced to dip into its reserves in order to make payments to the RFPD. This has created a financial crisis which looms over the people who live and work in Hazelwood because vital city services and the city’s solvency are being put at risk by the unreasonable and excessive fees which the city is required to pay RFPD every year.

The city has a fiduciary duty to all its citizens and property owners to provide a full range of quality municipal services on a cost-effective basis. It is incumbent on the mayor and city council that the provision of these services which include police, fire,

Photo courtesy city of Hazelwood

EMS, public works, and recreation are to be balanced in such a way as to best promote the general welfare and sustainability of the community within available resources.

Terminating the contract with RFPD will enhance the health, safety and welfare of all Hazelwood residents for several reasons. The city will no longer be paying a fee of $4 million dollars per year to the RFPD. The savings can be re-directed to other areas in the city’s general budget for improvements to street maintenance, park amenities, police protection and a third firehouse (valued at $2.6 million) with additional equipment and personnel to service Hazelwood residents once covered by the RFPD. “Those living in the part of Hazelwood that was once serviced by the RFPD will see no decrease in fire protection and emergency medical services. It will be a seamless transition. There will be no change in service levels. The Hazelwood Fire Department has the same equipment as RFPD and a policy of always having four firefighters on a truck. Residents will benefit from the expansion of services offered by the department as it gears itself up to protect all the citizens of Hazelwood,” Robinson added.

The Sarah Community sets bar high for wellness The Sarah Community, a faith-based continuum of care retirement community in Bridgeton is building on its longstanding commitment to wellness with the debut of a new state-of-the-art Wellness Center. A recent ribbon cutting marked the official opening of the 1,000-square-foot addition, which features the latest fitness equipment, dedicated massage areas and space to host a series of wellness classes that promise something for everyone living and working in the community.

“Overall wellness of the body, mind and spirit has always been a primary focus at The Sarah Community,” commented Executive Director Mary Beth Hunt. “We are delighted to expand our offerings to include this new facility, which will help us to continue to deliver on our promise to be a community that is an active, vibrant and purposeful place to live.”

The Wellness Center will be utilized by the more than 300 nuns and seniors who reside in the community, as well as staff. They will have access to yoga, strength training, stretching and cardio group sessions; personal trainers; and representatives from Select Rehab, who will provide orientation and consultation on how to use the new equipment.

Transportation services will also be provided to the Bridgeton Community Center so residents can gain aquatic experience through water-based classes and activities in an Olympic-size pool.

Thanks to the Sarah Community’s commitment to overall health and wellness, residents have access to an array of additional opportunities outside of the Wellness Center. This includes programs like the Walking with Naomi experience that combines elements of both spiritual education and fitness as participants retrace the footsteps of Jesus during his lifetime. They consider the history, geography, ancient and contemporary culture of the area, as well as what Jesus did or said there. Residents who have visited these areas are invited to share their photos and stories. They gather once a month to share their mileage with each other, welcoming people who logged the miles on their own two feet or used motorized chairs or scooters for their personal journey.

The Sarah Community also has a parish nurse on staff, who is also a Presbyterian minister; in addition to offering overall healthcare consultations she holds

Submitted photo Sr. Sarah Sykes, Daughters of Charity, Mary Beth Hunt, Executive Director of The Sarah Community and Lequeshiah Young, Residency Director at the Sarah Community help to cut the ribbon celebrating the opening of the new wellness center at the community.

ecumenical services for residents and staff of all faiths.

Blood pressure check-ups, advice on insurance, and other supportive services that enable residents to remain independent longer, are provided through an ongoing relationship with St. Andrew’s Senior Solutions. Plus, DePaul Hospital is conveniently located adjacent to the Sarah Community so residents can get more comprehensive medical care as needed.

The importance of helping residents stay engaged and have the ability to continue to serve those in need is also being addressed, as plans are in the works to provide transportation for residents interested in volunteering their time and talents at a nearby homeless center.

Hunt notes that the dedication plaque in the new wellness center bears the inscription of a Corinthian verse that is at the heart of all the different components of their wellness initiative: “Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own? For you have been purchased at a price. Therefore, glorify God in your body.”

“We’re providing more opportunities every day for our residents and staff to embrace that message,” said Hunt.

Ken Dowden, who lives at Naomi House in the Sarah Community, agrees that such opportunities abound.

“There is no doubting the Sarah Community’s commitment to wellness,” said Dowden. “I have been active for most of my life, and I have always been independent. I’m 82 years old now and as my health deteriorates, I want to be as independent as possible for as long as possible. I know living an active, healthy lifestyle is part of what helps me to stay independent.

With the addition of the new Wellness Center and other fitness programs, the Sarah Community has created an environment where I can grow, thrive and keep my independence longer through their commitment to wellness.”

To learn more about the unique care environment offered throughout the entire The Sarah Community, call 314-209-7000 or visit www.thesarahcommunity.com.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • January 3, 2018

Around Town

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Down syndrome community raises awareness with “Relay and Run for 21” half marathon More than 500 runners will take to the streets of Clayton on March 25 to raise awareness and funds for the Down syndrome community. The Relay and Run for 21, held each year near World Down Syndrome Day, helps to raise money for the Down Syndrome Association of Greater St. Louis (DSAGSL) and Dads Appreciating Down Syndrome (DADS) Community Outreach Fund.

Runners and walkers are encouraged to tackle 21 Kilometers (13.1 miles) on their own or as part of a three-person relay in honor of the third copy of the 21st chromosome, the defining characteristic of Down syndrome. The event also offers a 7K, 2.1K fun run/walk, and family festival inside Clayton High School.

The half marathon course will feature three loops through the streets of Clayton

and U-City, with the start, finish, and relay exchanges taking place at Clayton High School. Race amenities include a race shirt, finisher medal, one-of-a-kind plaques, indoor festival with food and vendors, and music from the DSAGSL Rocks live bands.

Relay and Run for 21 welcomes community partners and sponsors from across the region. Past sponsors and partners include Fleet Feet Sports, McBride and Son Homes, Final Clean Construction Clean Up, Ambassador Floor Company, Rainbow Painting Company, and more. All proceeds go to serving the nearly 1800 individuals with Down syndrome in the greater St. Louis area.

For more information about Relay and Run for 21, please visit runfor21k.com or contact the DSAGSL office at 314-961-2504 or abby@dsagsl.org.

MDC and partners bring Eagle Days to the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge Jan. 13-14 – TWITTER.COM/MYCNEWS

Photo courtesy Missouri Department of Conservation

visit

Few words can describe the thrill of seeing America’s national symbol soaring through the air in the wild, or close enough to touch.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) and its partners offer the chance to discover a close connection with the bald eagle.

The Eagle Days at the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge Festival takes place from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Jan. 13, and Jan. 14.

Visitors can view eagles through spotting scopes staffed by trained volunteers at any time from the vantage point of the historic Old Chain of Rocks Bridge. The bridge is part of the Mississippi Greenway, also known as the Riverfront Trail.

On both days, the World Bird Sanctuary will be presenting an educational program featuring a live bald eagle, repeated every 20 minutes from 10 a.m. - 2:40 p.m. Programming includes a handson exhibit of local birds presented by St. Louis Audubon, a full-size replica of an eagle’s nest, and warming tent activities, including children’s art.

Guests will also enjoy Lewis and Clark living history demonstrations at both sides of the bridge.

The Missouri Bridge entrance will feature reenactors from the Discovery Expedition of St. Charles both days. Visitors can see how Lewis and Clark and their crew lived, cooked, and traveled more than 200 years ago. Demonstrations will also include a flag raising at 10 a.m. and lowering at 3 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday. The Illinois side will feature re-enactors from the Lewis and Clark State Historic Site in Hartford, Illinois on Saturday.

Visitors are encouraged to dress warmly, wear comfortable shoes (eagle viewing occurs at the center of the bridge, a half-mile walk from each bridge entrance), and leave their pets at home.

Hot food and drink will be available onsite for purchase.

Eagle Days at the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge is produced through a partnership between MDC, Illinois Department of Natural Resources and Great Rivers Greenway, and is sponsored by Cabela’s.

During the winter, the Mississippi River hosts one of North America’s largest concentrations of bald eagles; they are drawn to areas of open water in search of fish, their preferred food. The Chain

of Rocks rapids to the south of the bridge create open waters which are ideal fishing waters for eagles. This is a unique opportunity to watch them fish, ride ice floes, soar overhead and roost in nearby trees while having access to an educational program featuring a live eagle and warming tent activities.

Directions to the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge from St. Louis: Take I-270 east toward Illinois.

Exit at Riverview Drive exit and turn right. Turn left into the entrance of the Confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri Park/Missouri Bridge.

Parking at the Missouri Bridge entrance costs $5.

(See below for free parking information.)

From Illinois: Take I-270 west towards Missouri.

Exit at IL Route 3, go south to Chain of Rocks Road and follow west to the bridge entrance parking area (free). OR to park on the Missouri side, continue on I-270 west, over the Mississippi River; exit at Riverview. Drive and turn left. Turn left into the entrance of the Confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri Park/Missouri Bridge.

Parking at the Missouri Bridge entrance costs $5.

Free parking is available at two satellite lots in Missouri, the St. Louis Welcome Center at Riverview and I-270 and North Riverfront Park, off of Riverview south of the waterworks. A free shuttle will be available from both locations. Free parking is also available at the Illinois Bridge entrance.

For eagle lovers eager to see more eagles, MDC also sponsors another free Eagle Days event the following weekend at Clarksville Lock and Dam Number 24. It takes place Jan. 27, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m., and Jan. 28, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Clarksville is an exceptional location for eagle viewing. Visitors can see bald eagles through spotting scopes and at live eagle programs, along with many other educational activities. For more information on the Clarksville Eagle Days event, call 660-7852420.

For more on Eagle Days at the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge, visit http://greatriversgreenway. org/eagledays/. To learn more about bald eagle viewing opportunities throughout Missouri, go to https://nature.mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/ events/eagle-days.

www.pattersonhomeimprovement.com

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January 3, 2018 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

NOTES

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • January 3, 2018

Snowy owls from Arctic making a winter visit to Missouri

Around Town

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Hazelwood’s Community Enrichment Commission hosts 16th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Tribute

Photo courtesy Bill Graham, Missouri Department of Conservation Snowy owls are occasional winter visitors to Missouri, usually during years when food is scarce in their Arctic range. Often they are young owls. Several snowy owls have been reported in Missouri this winter. This owl was at the Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary north of St. Louis on Dec. 21.

Missouri birders are getting a winter treat. Snowy owls are being spotted in the state and throughout the Midwest. But the visit from this owl species from the Arctic is not good news for the birds, as likely a food shortage in their natural habitat has pushed them farther south than usual, experts say.

“This is an irruption likely tied to a drop in the lemming population in the Arctic this summer and fall,” said Mark Robbins, an ornithologist at the University of Kansas who also works with Audubon Christmas Bird Counts in Missouri.

The maps on eBird, a cooperative online effort by birders and researchers to track sightings for all species, shows several snowy owls have been seen across north Missouri and a few in central and southern Missouri. Snowy owls are among the largest owls and named for their white coloration. Adult males are mostly white. Females and younger owls can have black barring as well as white. Snowy owls can have wingspans topping four feet.

Harry Potter’s owl was a snowy owl.

A male snowy owl arrived at the Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary near the Mississippi River north of St. Louis on Nov. 9, said Ken Buchholz, director for the Audubon Center at Riverlands. A female appeared during the Thanksgiving holiday week. A snowy owl was spotted at Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge on the western side of the state in recent weeks.

Snowy owls last appeared in Missouri and Kansas in noticeable numbers during the winter of 2011-2012. The majority of those where age could be determined were young birds, according to a scientific paper on the irruption that Robbins helped compile. In the 2011-2012 irruption, experts found and examined some owls that died. Most owls examined were emaciated, suggesting they were having difficulty finding prey for food in unfamiliar habitat.

People are urged to minimize disturbance of the snowy owls, as they are already stressed due to food shortage in their normal winter habitat.

These tundra dwellers normally feed on lemmings, ptarmingan and waterfowl. They especially rely on lemmings. When lemming populations are high, snowy owl populations rise. The owls move south when lemming populations crash. In Missouri, they prefer grasslands as habitat and may eat rodents, rabbits, squirrels, waterfowl and other birds.

For information about owl sightings and birding, visit eBird at http://ebird.org.

To learn more about snowy owls and their visits to Missouri, visit https://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZSU.

www.byerlyrv.com

Photo courtesy city of Hazelwood At last year’s event, Community Enrichment Commission Chairperson Helena Smith (on stage) begins the special candlelighting ceremony with commission members Linda Royal (right) and Alexis Robinson (left). This part of the program has become a crowd favorite as people light each other’s candle throughout the room and reflect on Dr. King’s legacy as they sing together.

The city of Hazelwood’s Community Enrichment Commission will be hosting its 16th Annual Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., on Jan. 14, at Civic Center East, 8969 Dunn Road.

Starting time is 7 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public.

This year’s program will feature the following guest speakers: Reverend Freddy Clark, Pastor of the Shalom Church City of Peace, is the keynote speaker. Gwendolyn Moore, Missouri History Museum Curator; and 2017 NCUU Oratory Contest Winner Trinity Lynn Cross, a sixth grade student at Northview Elementary School in the

Jennings School District, will also be present.

Hazelwood City Manager Matthew Zimmerman will be serving as the program emcee.

In addition, the entertainment will be provided

by The Coleman-Wright C.M.E. Church Angels of Praise. They will be performing a liturgical dance with music.

The celebration closes with a memorable candlelighting ceremony honoring the legacy of Dr. King. Refreshments will be served afterwards in the lobby area of the facility.

For more information, contact the Community Enrichment Commission at 314-731-0980.

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School

January 3, 2018 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Pattonville speech and debate students earn multiple honors The Pattonville High School speech and debate team hosted its annual Randy Pierce Winter Classic speech and debate tournament on Dec. 8 and 9. More than 500 students from 30 schools from across the state participated in the student-run event. Pattonville speech and debate team members had to recruit judges to cover more than 650 judging rounds. The team has celebrated numerous awards at regional competitions during the first semester of the school year.

At the Greater St. Louis (GSL) Conference Preseason Tournament, seven students received honors. Rachel McCormick and Kaliahna Carroll placed first and Harith Al Yuwaili and Mohaimen Al Yuwaili placed fourth in novice Duet Improv. Eli Card placed third in novice Impromptu Speaking. Brianna Smith and Brittany Strasburger placed sixth in varsity Duet Improv.

During the Parkway West tournament, Harith Al Yuwaili and Mohaimen Al Yuwaili placed first in Top Novice Duo Interpretation. The following students were also semifinalists: Hannah Berg in novice Radio Speaking, Emily Lu in Prose/Poetry and Edmond Zhang in varsity Domestic Extemporaneous Speaking. Bell Tucci placed fifth in novice Radio Speaking.

At the GSL Conference Tournament No. 1, Camilla Wilkerson was among the top novices in varsity Policy Debate and earned first in novice Radio Speaking. Anna de Garcia and Eden Magana Lopez placed second in novice Public Forum Debate. In addition to her honors at the preseason tournament, Strasburger earned second in Storytelling and fifth in varsity Radio Speaking.

During the Francis Howell North Events Tournament, Devin Zahner placed fifth in varsity International Extemporaneous Speaking. Harith Al Yuwaili and Mohaimen Al Yuwaili placed sixth in novice Duo Interpretation and Strasburger placed sixth in Storytelling.

At the Troy Buchanan Debate Tournament, Tajh Martin and Tucci earned second in novice Public Forum Debate. Lu placed third in novice Lincoln-Douglas Debate. And, in novice Policy Debate, Wilkerson placed fifth and Lacey Harder and McCormick placed sixth. In addition, the team won fourth place in overall Debate Sweepstakes. Additional members of the team were Krista Baught, Card, Lihn Chittakhone, Adam Kendrick, Mariyah Simpson, Xmiena Rogers Stamps, Aubrey Tendiel and James Vie. At the GSL Conference Tournament No. 2, Will Polster earned second place in Domestic Extemporaneous; Harith Al Yuwaili and Mohaimen Al Yuwaili earned sixth in Duo Interpretation; Polster and Nolan Prebianca earned second in Public Forum Debate; and Lu placed first in Novice Lincoln Douglas Debate.

At the Clayton Varsity Tournament, Polster placed first in Informative Speaking and third in Domestic Extemporaneous; Harith Al Yuwaili and Mohaimen Al Yuwaili placed sixth in Duo Interpretation; Polster and Prebianca placed first in Champion Public Forum Debate; and Devin Zahner was a semifinalist in International Extemporaneous.

At the Ladue Novice Tournament, Sarah Burke placed sixth in Interpretation; Marianne Pacheco placed fourth in Poetry; and Lu placed fifth in Poetry.

Teacher Jennifer Raymond coaches the speech and debate team.

Ernest Young shares some Christmas joy with students from McCluer High School Photo courtesy Ferguson-Florissant School District

Ernest Young (EY) invited the McCluer College MAP (Mentoring for Access and Persistence) Program scholars to their offices for some Christmas fun that included lunch, games

and buckets of cookies. Started in 2009, EY College MAP is a program that connects 23 McCluer students with EY mentors to help them get to and through college.

Ferguson-Florissant high schools receive National Athletic Trainers’ Association Safe Sports School award

Photo courtesy Ferguson-Florissant School District Head athletic trainer Nicole Fleischmann (left) at McCluer South-Berkeley stands with principal Eric Harris.

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All three high schools in the Ferguson-Florissant School District—McCluer North, McCluer South-Berkeley, and McCluer—are recipients of the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) Safe Sports School award for their athletic programs. The award champions safety and recognizes secondary schools that provide safe environments for student athletes. The award reinforces the importance of providing the best level of care, injury prevention, and treatment.

“I speak for all of the athletic directors in the district to say that we are honored to receive this recognition from NATA,” said Keith Rhodes, athletic director at McCluer South-Berkeley. “We remain committed to keeping our student athletes safe during physical education classes, team practices, and games so they can accomplish their own goals of great competition, winning records, fair sportsmanship, and good health.”

In order to achieve Safe Sports School status, athletic programs must meet the following criteria: • Create a positive athletic health care administrative system.

• Provide or coordinate pre-participation physical examinations.

• Promote safe and appropriate practice and competition facilities.

• Plan for selection, fit function and proper maintenance of athletic equipment.

• Provide a permanent, appropriately equipped area to evaluate and treat injured athletes.

• Develop injury and illness prevention strategies, including protocols for environmental conditions.

• Provide or facilitate injury intervention.

• Create and rehearse a venue-specific emergency action plan.

• Provide or facilitate psychosocial consultation and nutritional counseling/education.

• Be sure athletes and parents are educated of the potential benefits and risks in sports as well as their responsibilities.

“We remain committed to the health and welfare of young athletes in competitive sports,” said NATA President Scott Sailor. “This award recognizes the contributions and commitment of schools across the country that are implementing safe sports policies and best practices to ensure athletes can do what they love best and have the appropriate care in place to prevent, manage and treat injuries should they occur.”

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • January 3, 2018

Recipe:

FRESH FRUIT FLAVORS

W

hen it comes to fresh fruit, watermelon is a top pick in many households. It’s available yearround and makes for a nutritious snack, but its great taste is the reason most people buy watermelon, according to research from the National Watermelon Promotion Board. Not only is watermelon a tasty snack by itself, it’s a great complement to other flavors, making it easy to create flavorful pairings. This sweet take on pizza combines watermelon with a host of other good-for-you ingredients for a delicious treat. Healthy enough for breakfast and sweet enough for dessert, this pizza can make its way into your weekly meal rotation.For another nutritious option, consider this Buddha bowl

featuring watermelon, which contains higher levels of lycopene, an antioxidant, than any other fresh fruit or vegetable. Watermelon is also an excellent source of vitamin C, and it provides vitamin B6 and potassium. It’s the perfect sweet addition to balance the savory flavors of this traditional plant-based Buddha bowl.

Each of these recipes leaves plenty of room for personalization; experiment with your favorite flavors to make each dish your own. Also remember that watermelon travels well, so these recipes make for ideal take-along snacks when you’re on the go.

Find more fresh, fruity recipes to enjoy any time of year at watermelon.org.

Food

9

Crossword Puzzle Theme: The 1990s

Watermelon Buddha Bowl

Ingredients: Citrusy Tahini Dressing: 3 tablespoons tahini (ground sesame seed paste) 1/3 cup fresh-squeezed orange juice 1/4 cup rice vinegar 1 teaspoon soy sauce 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger 1/2 teaspoon salt

Sweet Watermelon Pizza Ingredients: Greek yogurt Watermelon, cut to 1-inch thick round slice Shredded coconut Mint Berries, such as blueberries, strawberries or blackberries Slivered almonds Directions: Spread yogurt to cover fleshy part of watermelon, leaving room to hold rind.

Sprinkle with coconut, mint, berries and almonds, or other toppings, as desired.

Buddha Bowls: 2 cups seedless watermelon, cubed 4 mini cucumbers, thinly sliced 1 cup sweet cherries, pitted and halved 2 avocados, sliced 2 cups cooked black rice 1 cup sliced, toasted almonds Citrusy Tahini Dressing Directions: To make Citrusy Tahini Dressing: In bowl,

whisk tahini, orange juice, rice vinegar, soy sauce, ginger and salt. If dressing seems thick, add more orange juice or water to reach desired consistency.

To arrange Buddha Bowls: Separate watermelon, cucumbers, cherries, avocados and rice in four bowls. Sprinkle with toasted almonds and drizzle with dressing. Serve immediately.

ACROSS 1. Had, with “thou” 6. Leaves in a bag 9. “____ ____ good example” 13. Chilled 14. Hole punching tool 15. John du Pont, e.g.

16. *”Private Parts” and “Miss America” author 17. Hawaiian garland 18. Faster!

19. *Highest grossing movie 21. *Popular 1990s communication device 23. Digital location marker 24. Sty cry 25. Homer’s exclamation 28. Ticket leftover 30. Perform onychectomy 35. International Civil Aviation Organization 37. Please get back to me 39. Andean pack animal 40. Aldous Huxley’s drug of choice 41. Willow twig 43. Cain’s unfortunate brother 44. Like Desmond Morris’ ape 46. Of low density 47. Cosa Nostra and such 48. Entertained 50. Yanks 52. U Rah ____!

53. “Put that in your ____ and smoke it!”

55. *Swedish pop group, ____ of Base 57. *Human ____ Project 60. *Grunge fabric 64. Panthers 65. “Uh-uh” 67. Indian cuisine yogurt staple 68. High society 69. Genesis vessel 70. Audience’s approval 71. ‘70s hairdo 72. *Pamela Anderson’s husband 73. Rosetta Stone, e.g.

DOWN 1. *Conan debuted as one on NBC in 1993 2. Against 3. Weight watcher’s plan 4. Garbage disposal fodder 5. *Anna Kournikova’s domain 6. Barber’s supply 7. *Dolly 8. Cover story 9. a.k.a. porgy 10. Dublin land 11. Millimeter of mercury 12. Take your pick 15. Israeli monetary unit 20. Preface 22. *Emma Thompson in “Howard’s ____” 24. Eliminate 25. *Royal car crash victim 26. ____’s razor 27. 3-line poem 29. *This socialist state is no more, acr.

31. Chowder ingredient 32. *Robert Reich, Secretary of ____ 33. Single-cell animal 34. *Brandon or Brenda of “Beverly Hills, 90210” 36. Lyric poems 38. Paddington’s home country 42. Like something fit for a king 45. Remove from the throne 49. Not bright 51. Frightens 54. Prison-related 56. Perform in a play 57. *1991 war site 58. Arabian chieftain 59. *Operation Joint Endeavour mastermind organization 60. Type of fish net 61. Cairo’s waterway 62. Et alibi, abbr.

63. *”Late Night” becomes “____ Show” 64. One in a pod 66. Second person of be

10

Learn & Play

January 3, 2018 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

John Hanna

By John M Hanna ‘Yeggs’ is a comic series about Robert and Bill, two rabbits who have opened their own egg franchise in the Midwest (St. Louis area). We follow their day to day lives, watching as they go about the hectic task of preparing for their one big day every year. Along the way they have adventures filled with fun, comic doings and pathos.

By Cindy Moore

Moore On Life

Getting carded I

’m told I am getting harder and harder to buy for with each passing Christmas.

Huh? One of my family members, whose name will be kept private because this person has the power to hold hostage the pin number (which I keep forgetting) to the ATM. So let’s just call this person, Mr. Grinch – MG for short. MG’s Christmas gift-giving skillset has been waning. More so, in the last couple of years. But, he claims I’m impossible to buy for.

Really? Moi?! I thrill over the simplest of things. I’m that person who gets teary-eyed and emotional over a new pair of oven mitts (even though I’ll never use them). I get giddy and jump for joy over finding a Dr. Pepper-flavored lip gloss stuffed into my stocking! Seriously, I am not the problem here.

To be helpful, I once mentioned to my husband… oops…MG! Whatever, I wrote the ATM password down on my driver’s license with a Sharpie. I suggested he get me a gift card. Since then, it’s become a

mindset and permanently locked in his brain. I’ve received one for every birthday, anniversary, Valentine’s Day and any other holiday in between. He even gave me one last Jan. 16, which is officially, Nothing Day. God bless America when we have a day in which absolutely nothing is going on and we still celebrate its nothingness. I suppose, to prevent that poor day from feeling like a loser, someone officially felt the need to declare it as something day and so it became, Nothing Day. This ensured that Hallmark would be forced to create pricey greeting cards which in turn ensured that my husband felt guilt and would buy me another food card. Personally, I think it was to ensure he’ll be getting a meal, since I always take him along.

But it had to happen. Eventually there were no more restaurants left to try. He then moved over to car wash and tune-up gift cards. I’m expecting a colonoscopy gift card next birthday.

But, surprise, surprise! This year he went all crazy creative for Christmas. Good news! He got me some-

thing original – a Trump Chia Pet. No, no, no. That’s bad news! I don’t do plants. Plants need water. That’s the same as cooking. I don’t do oven mitts or cooking.

Plant went bye, bye.

Something tells me I’m gonna hear about this on Twitter.

Cindy Moore is the mother of three superlative kids, servant of two self-indulgent felines and wife to one nifty husband. Her ficticious occupation? Archeological Humorist: someone who unearths absurdity and hilarity in strange and unusual places including public restrooms, the lint filter, and church meetings. Most recently, she excavated a find in her neighbor’s bird feeder.

The opinions expressed in this column are Cindy Moore’s alone and do not reflect the opinion of the owners or staff of Community News.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • January 3, 2018

Sports you see with Gary B...

McCluer High swimmer’s career among best in state McCluer High School senior Drew Tallent ended his stellar high school swimming career by placing among the best in Missouri during the MSHHAA State Swim Meet, Class 1. Tallent placed fifth in the 100-yard butterfly with a time of 53.81 seconds and ninth the 100-backstroke with the fifth overall fastest time of 55.54 seconds. This was Tallent’s third trip to the state swim meet.

He consistently won events throughout his senior swim season and became a known and respected adversary for many teams in the region.

He holds school records in three individual events – backstroke, butterfly, and 500-freestyle – and broke his own school records in the backstroke and butterfly this year.

Tallent also holds the pool record at McCluer South-Berkeley, McCluer’s home pool, in the backstroke, butterfly, 500-freestyle, 50-freestyle, and the individual medley. He has accomplished all of this while maintaining a 4.34 GPA and dual enrollment at St. Louis Community College-Florissant Valley.

He has been selected by the Missouri Interscholastic Swimming Coaches Association to be part of the All-State Interscholastic Swimming Team. After graduation, he plans to attend Missouri University of Science and Technology to pursue a major in mechanical engineering. * In the water Lindenwood swim and dive team compete in Mississippi The Lindenwood swimming and diving teams competed in the Delta State Christmas Invite in Cleveland, Mississippi before Christmas.

The women’s team finished in first place out of five teams with 2,104 total points. The men’s team finished in second place out of six teams with 1,943 total points.

The Lions put together nine first-place finishes in team relay events.

In addition to being a part of multiple winning relay teams, Simone de Rijcke picked up first place honors in the 1000-yd, 500-yd, 200-yd, and 100-yd freestyle events. Simone earned herself an invite to the NCAA Nationals, putting up an NCAA Qualification time in the 200-yd freestyle on day three of the event. She also set a new school record with her qualifying time. Simone also won the female swim-

mer of the meet. Ashley Holloway picked up a first place finish in the 3-mtr dive, scoring 32 points.

Holloway also won female diver of the meet.

For the men, Matheus Isidro picked up first place honors in the 500-yd freestyle, 100-yd butterfly, and 200-yd butterfly. Isidro won the male swimmer of the meet. Cristian Vasquez finished in first place in the 400-yd IM and Grant Williams picked up a second place finish in the 1-mtr dive finals with 28 points. * Swimming in January Rascals start 20th season in O’Fallon During the 2018 season, the River City Rascals will be celebrating their 20th season at CarShield Field, formerly known as T.R. Hughes Ballpark.

In 1999, the Greys moved to from their home in Zanesville, Ohio to O’Fallon and were renamed the River City Rascals. The newly renamed team started their first season in O’Fallon with a bang and led the Frontier League in home runs that inaugural season. Both in 1999 and 2000, the Rascals were named Frontier League Organization of the Year, with over 150,000 fans in 1999. With the help of their fans, they set franchise records for attendance in 2000 and 2002.

Since opening in O’Fallon, the Rascals have won the West Division Championship in 2009, 2011, and 2014. They also had Frontier League Championship Appearances in all those years as well as 2015 and 2016 and won the Frontier League Championship in 2010 under the direction of former player and current manager, Steve Brook.

Over the past 19 seasons, four players have made it to The Show - Josh Kinney, Justin Christian, Joe Thatcher, and Brandon Cunniff. Former manager, Jack Clark, became the hitting coach for the Los Angeles Dodgers. * A lot of fun planned Gary Baute, a St. Louis native, may be educated in business but he lives and breathes sports. As a fan or an athlete, Gary is all sports all the time.

He hosted a radio sports program on KFNS, emceed the River City Rascals’ inaugural season, and co-hosted SportsRadioSTL.com, among many other activities.

Sports

11

– SUDOKU – Fill in the blank squares in the grid, making sure that every row, column and 3-by-3 box includes all the digits 1 through 9.

See solution on page 13

w w w. s e n i o r s h e l p i n g s e n i o r s . c o m / s t l o u i s c e n t r a l

Gary B. will be broadcasting the “STL Health and Wellness LIVE” show every Saturday from 9-11 am on 590 The Fan and 590TheFan.com

www.facebook.com/mycnews www.pinterest.com/mycnews https://twitter.com/mycnews

12

What’s Happening

January 3, 2018 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Send your event to editor@mycnews.com and we'll print it!

EVENTS Jan. 3: Karaoke

Karaoke at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information call 314-831-6121.

Jan. 5: Steak dinner

Steak dinner at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 4 to 7 p.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information call 314-831-6121.

Jan. 6: BB gun shoot

BB gun shoot at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 1 to 4 p.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information call 314-831-6121.

Jan. 10: Karaoke

Karaoke at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information call 314-831-6121.

Jan. 12: Country fried steak or meatloaf dinner

Country fried steak or meatloaf dinner at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 4 to 7 p.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information call 314-831-6121.

Jan. 13: Breakfast

Breakfast at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 8 to 10 a.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information call 314-831-6121.

Jan. 13: Flea market

Flea market at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information call 314-831-6121.

Jan. 17: Karaoke

Karaoke at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information call 314-831-6121.

Jan.19: Dinner

Dinner at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 4 to 7 p.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information call 314-831-6121.

Jan. 24: Karaoke

Karaoke at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information call 314-831-6121.

Jan. 26: Chicken dinner

Chicken dinner at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 4 to 7 p.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information call 314-831-6121.

Jan. 31: Karaoke

Karaoke at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information call 314-831-6121.

Feb. 24: Trivia night

Boy Scout Troop 884 trivia night takes place at Trinity Church of the Nazarene at 3515 Shackleford Rd. Doors open at 6 p.m., trivia starts promptly at 7 p.m. Cost is $120 a table for eight people or $15 per person. Snacks and drinks are provided, no alcohol permitted. Bring extra cash for special games and mulligans. There will be silent auction gift baskets and attendance prizes. Contact Tina Thomas to reserve your table at 314-740-7607.

Feb. 28: Snowman building contest

If you think you build the best snowman in your neighbourhood, then we have a contest for you. Until Feb. 28, anytime it snows build a snowman. Take a picture of yourself and the snowman, and send it to the JFK Center Office along with an application. Prizes will be awarded. The Youth Advisory Commission will be the judges of this contest. You must be a Florissant resident to enter. For ages 15 and younger. Pick up an application, or visit our website, email a digital photo to jsteib@florissantmo. com, or send your picture with your child’s name, address, phone number and age to: Attn: Snowman Contest, JFK Community Center, 315 Howdershell Rd., Florissant, Missouri 63031.

For further information, call 314-9214250.

RECURRING EVENTS Any time: Tours at Old St. Ferdinand Shrine by appointment #1 Rue St. Francois St., Florissant. Donations accepted. Docents needed.

314-921-7582, Vicki Wittman Email: vicray01@aol.com.

Weekdays: Food pantry volunteers needed The Harvey Kornblum Jewish Food Pantry is in need of ongoing adult volunteers to sort food, stock shelves and shop with clients.

Two-to-four hour shifts are available, Monday-Friday 8:45 a.m.3:45 p.m. To learn more or to join this fun group, contact Chelsey Banaskavich at 314-513-1674 or cbanaskavich@jfcs-stl.org.

Weekdays: Volunteer drivers The St. Louis County Older Resident Programs need volunteer drivers who live in St. Louis County to give a few hours during the day to provide transportation to and from doctor’s appointments for our senior residents of St. Louis County that lives near you! No weekends and mileage reimbursement is available. Call today at 314-615-4516.

Mondays: City council meetings City of Pine Lawn holds regular city council meetings at city hall at 6250 Steve Marre Ave. in Pine Lawn on the second Monday of the month at 6:30 p.m. The meetings are open to the public.

Mondays: Workshop meetings City of Pine Lawn holds regular workshop meetings at city hall at 6250 Steve Marre Ave. in Pine Lawn on the fourth Monday of the month at 6:30 p.m. The meetings are open to the public.

Mondays: A cappella singers

All men who like to sing are invited to come sing with us, The Men of Harmony. We practice every Monday night at 7 p.m. at 5500 Parker Road which is the first house on Uthe Lane.

We sing four-part harmony a capella (without accompaniment ). We sing some traditional songs, as well as show tunes and more contemporary music. We do perform for the public at various functions. Persons interested can come right on in or for more information call Al at 314-993-6134.

Tuesdays: Choir rehearsals

The St. Louis Chordinals, a women’s a cappella chorus, rehearse every Tuesday evening from 7 - 9:30 p.m. at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church at 12397 Natural Bridge Rd. in Bridgeton (next to the Bridgeton Govern-

ment Center). For more information call Linda at 314-839-3495 or visit stlouischordinals.org.

Tuesdays: TOPS pounds sensibly)

(Take

off

From 9:15 - 10:30 a.m. located at John F. Kennedy Center/Henry Koch Ctr., Howdershell Rd. at Charbonier Rd., Florissant. For more info contact Paul or Connie McConnell, 314-831-5476.

Every 4th Tuesday of the month: Fort Bellefontaine Memorial American Legion Post 335 meeting 6:30pm, Fort Bellefontaine Memorial American Legion Post 335, at the Bellefontaine Neighbors Community Center at 9669 Bellefontaine Rd. Those interested in membership are invited to attend.

Every Tuesday: Bingo Evening at Florissant Elks Lodge #2316

Doors at 4:30pm, games begin at 6pm, Florissant Elks Lodge #2316, 16400 New Halls Ferry Rd. in Florissant. For more information, call 314.921.2316.

Wednesdays: Are you interested in losing weight?

Check out TOPS #361 Florissant group of supportive ladies. Meetings are on Wednesday mornings beginning at 9:15 am at Florissant Church of Christ, 16460 New Halls Ferry Rd. in Florissant. If interested, please contact Shirley at 314-895-3528 for more information.

Every Wednesday: Bingo Morning at Florissant Elks Lodge #2316

Florissant Elks Lodge #2316, 16400 New Halls Ferry Rd. in Florissant.

Doors at 7:30am, games begin at 9:30am. For more information, call 314.921.2316.

Bridgeton Trails Library Branch Programs:

3455 McKelvey Rd., St. Louis, 314.994.3300. Story Time: Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. 9 months to 2 yrs.

Room 1 (Lap Time); Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. Ages 3–5. Room 2; Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. Ages 3–5. Room 1.

Florissant Senior Citizens’ Bingo Clubs: 314.839.7604.

Every 1st Wednesday of the Month: Stroke Support Group

3-4pm, Center for Senior Renewal, Detrick Building 1st floor, 11133 Dunn Rd. For more information, contact Jamie Stevens at 314.653.5331.

Thursdays: Quilting guild

Every third Thursday of the month the Flower Valley Quilting Guild meets at 7 p.m. at Zion Lutheran Church at 123 Carson Road in Ferguson.

Thursdays: checks

Blood

pressure

Free blood pressure checks monthly at Life Care Center of Florissant at 1201 Garden Plaza Dr. (off Parker Rd.) in Florissant every third Thursday of the month. Call 831-3752 for more information.

Thursdays: meeting

Women’s

chorus

Every Thursday City Voices Chorus, a women’s chorus singing four-part a cappella harmony, meets at Church of the Good Shepherd at 1166 S. Mason Rd. in St. Louis. Members come from the entire bi-state region. Call Marcia at 636-274-0723 for more information or visit www.cityvoiceschorus.org.

Every Friday: Our Lady of Fatima #4429 Knights of Columbus Bingo 6:45pm, Knights of Columbus Hall,

1216 Teson Rd. in Hazelwood. For more information call 314.731.9330

attend. For more information visit www.jenningsdodads.org.

Every 3rd Friday of the month: Bingo

CHURCH

2pm, Life Care Center of Florissant, 1201 Garden Plaza Dr. For more information, call 314.831.3752.

Fridays: Celebrate Recovery

For 25 years Celebrate Recovery has been helping everyday folks find freedom from whatever difficulty you are experiencing in your life. This Christcentered, 12-step program is based on the Beatitudes. We meet every Friday at 6:15 p.m. for dinner ($5); 7 p.m. large group meeting; 8 p.m. Small groups sharing; 9 p.m. dessert at First Christian Church of Florissant at 2890 Patterson Rd. in Florissant. For more information call 314-837-2269 or visit http://www.fccf.org/ or Facebook page Celebrate Recovery-FCCF.

Saturdays: Free walk-in clinic

Salam Clinic at St. Peter’s United Church of Christ at 1425 Stein Road at West Florissant in Ferguson is a free walk-in clinic open Saturdays from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. The clinic is jointly sponsored by the Muslim Community of St. Louis (MCSL) and St. Peter’s United Church of Christ to provide basic adult medical screening, treatment and referrals free of charge for the uninsured. For more information or if you would be interested in volunteering, please call 314-521-5694 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday – Friday or visit www.stpeterschurch.org

Saturdays: Clothing sale

On the second Saturday of each month Bethany-Peace UCC at 11952 Bellefontaine Rd. in St. Louis County hosts a clothing sale from 9 - 11 a.m.

For sale are used clothing and shoes, some household items, books and toys. Fill your bag for $1.

Saturdays: Grief support group

A Way with Words Grief Support Ministry meets the fourth Saturday each month at Community Christ Fellowship (in the rear) at121 Williams Blvd. in Hazelwood from 12:30 - 2:30 p.m. For more information contact Pat Ryan at 314-605-3949.

Every Fourth Saturday’s Writer’s Workshop 10 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. at Baden Library, at 8448 Church Rd. For more information call 314-388-2400.

Sundays: Meat shoot

Come and enjoy the meat shoots at American Legion Post 444 located on 17090 Old Jamestown Road between Sinks Rd and Lindbergh starting at noon until dusk every Sunday in February and March in the spring and every Sunday in October through the second-to-last week in November in the fall - rain or shine. Great meat prizes awarded.

Sundays: AMVETS meat shoot Sundays in September through April, AMVETS Post 55, located on 8842 Natural Bridge Rd. in Bel-Ridge will be hosting meat shoots with practice beginning at 11 a.m. and rounds starting at noon. Shooters must be 18 or older and will shoot #9’s with no bull barrels or scopes and 675 minimum chokes. The shooting area is indoors and food and drink are available in the club room. For more information, contact 314-630-2671 or 314-330-7269.

Sundays: meeting

Jennings

Do-Dads

The Jennings Do-Dads hold meetings every third Sunday of the month (except June which is the second Sunday and no meeting in December) at 1 p.m. at Classics Bar & Grill at 11601 West Florissant Avenue. Those interested in membership are invited to

Tuesdays & Thursdays: Chapel of the Cross Lutheran Church GriefShare Support Group Tuesdays from 2 - 4pm and Thursday from 6:30 - 8:30pm, 11645 Benham Rd., 314.741.3737

HEALTH Every Mon. & Tues.: Healthy Meal Replacement (HMR) Program Orientation Mondays: 6–7pm Tuesdays: Noon– 1pm SSM DePaul Wellness Center.

Attend a free orientation to learn: the Five Success Variables needed to lose weight, different diet options available and how important physical activity really is. Please call to register at 1.877.477.6954.

Every Monday-Friday: Evening Front Desk Volunteers Needed

4-7pm, Christian Hospital, 1225 Graham Rd. in Florissant. For more information, please contact Lee Shields at 314.653.5032.

2nd Tuesday of Every Month: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group Meeting

Meeting to be held at Sarah Care of Bridgeton Adult Day Center 11977 St. Charles Rock Road, Suite 121-124, Bridgeton, MO 63044. Join our Support Group for Mutual, Emotional Support and Education. You are not alone. For information, contact Deborah Mabrie at 314-291-5210 or Ferd Fetsch at 314-291-3021 Email: dbland@sarahcare.com ferdfetsch@ sbcglobal.net.

Every third Tuesday of every month: Grief Support Group sponsored by DePaul Hospital 11:30am-1pm, Maryland Hgts.

Comm. Ctr., 2300 McKelvey Rd. For more information, call 314.344.6873.

Wednesdays: ACES Schizophrenia Support Group 6:30 - 7:30pm, 314.839.3171.

Sundays: Alcoholics Anonymous Group 109 11th floor conference room at Christian Hospital, 10am, 11133 Dunn Road.

Diabetes Basics:

314.344.7024 for info or 314.344.7220 to enroll.

Crisis Nursery:

Committed to preventing child abuse and neglect, the Crisis Nursery provides short-term, safe havens to children, birth through age 12, whose families are faced with an emergency or crisis. Care is available year-round and serves families throughout the greater St. Charles region. 24-hour helpline: 314.768.3201.

Or 636.947.0600, www.crisisnurserykids.org

Center for Senior Renewal:

Day treatment programs for older adults dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, loss and early signs of dementia, 314.653.5123.

Nutrition Education:

SSM DePaul registered dieticians can help you make sure your diet is right for you, 314.344.6157.

Christian Center:

Hospital

Recovery

Outpatient mental health and substance abuse treatment for adults, 314.953.8100.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • January 3, 2018

Volunteers Needed at Christian Hospital: Call 314.653.5032 Nicotine Anonymous

Nicotine Anonymous is a 12 Step Program, free and available to all seeking recovery from nicotine addiction based on principals of AA. Only requirement is a desire to stop using nicotine. Voluntary contributions are accepted. For further info call 314822-2066 or visit WWW.NicotineAnonymous.org.

Look Good…Feel Better

SSM Cancer Care at DePaul Health Center, 12303 DePaul Drive. Radiation OncologyBridgeton. Attend a great makeup session sponsored by the American Cancer Society. A licensed cosmetologist teaches a session of scarf tying, shows a parade of hats, and provides each participant with a makeup kit. Light refreshments are served. Info: 314.344.6090.

SilverSneakers Senior Wellness Program at the Maryland Heights Centre

A fun, energizing program that helps older adults take greater control of their health by encouraging physical activity and offering social events. A Silver Sneakers membership includes access to the city’s Fitness Centre with state-of-the-art fitness equipment and circuit training. Membership is available at little or no cost through your health plan. To find out if you are eligible, visit www.silversneakers.com or call 314.738.2599.

Smoking Cessation Classes:

Free ongoing 8-week sessions, 866.

SSM.DOCS to register or for more information.

SSM DePaul Wellness Center:

Classes available on strength training, nutrition and smoking cessation, 314.344.6177

Free Mammogram Screenings:

SSM Health Care free mammogram screenings to women who have no health insurance. Appointments at 300 First Capitol Drive in St. Charles and SSM St. Joseph Hospital West, 100 Medical Plaza in Lake Saint Louis, 636.947.5617

Speaker’s Bureau:

SSM speakers available for organizations, clubs, community and church groups for up to one hour free of charge, 636.949.7159

ONGOING SUPPORT GROUPS Sundays: Support Group for Women Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse

6:30 - 8pm, 7401 Delmar Ave. in University City, 314.993.5421.

First and Third Tuesdays: Support Group for Women Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse

12:30 - 2pm, 320 Forsyth Blvd., Clayton, 314.968.3477.

Third Saturdays: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group

At Delmar Gardens North, 4401 Parker Rd., Florissant, 9am, 314.355.1516, Helpline 800.272.3900

Last Saturdays: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group:

Mother of Good Counsel Home, 6825 Natural Bridge, St. Louis, 10:30am 314.383.4765

Last Tuesdays: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group

Missouri Veterans Home, 10600 Lewis & Clark, St. Louis, 1pm, 314.340.6389

Wednesdays: Weekly Cancer Survivor’s Support Group H.W. Koenig Medical Building at SSM St. Joseph Hospital West, 3 - 4:30pm, free, 636.755.3034

12 Step Support Group for Women Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse: Meets in 4 locations in the metro St Louis area. Information: metrostlouissia@gmail.com.

Wednesdays: New Choices NarAnon Family Group at Zion Lutheran Church

12075 Dorsett Road, Maryland Heights, 7:30 – 9pm, www.Nar-Anon. org

Thursdays: Grief Share Support Group

Church of the Nazarene, 1309 N. Elizabeth Ave., Ferguson 6:30 - 8pm, leecedra@sbcglobal.net

Mondays & Thursdays: Breathe/ for people with pulmonary disease Graham Medical Center, 1150 Graham Rd. Suite 104, 11am - 12pm, $30, 314-953-6090

Wednesdays: STEPS Schizophrenia Support Group 6:30-7:30pm, 314.839.3171.

Calcium Scoring Heart Scan Program

SSM DePaul Health Center. This program uses advanced (CT) imaging to scan the arteries around the heart and measure or score the amount of calcium present in the plaque deposits.

This screening, in combination with other heart disease risk factors (high cholesterol, high blood pressure, cigarette smoking, physical inactivity, etc.) can help determine an overall picture of your current heart health and your risk for developing heart disease. Call 314.344.6030 to learn more about the heart scan program or to schedule an appointment.

SSM St. Joseph Health Center & Hospital West Auxiliary Non profit organization assisting the hosp. by holding fund raisering activities, being of service to patients, families, employees & physicians and acting as good will ambassadors to community. We welcome new member. Call Barb Hutchinson 636.947.5466.

The Barnes St. Peters Hospital Auxiliary is looking for New Members If you would like to become a member please call 636.916.9664.

Gateway to Hope Program

The Gateway to Hope Program arranges care for individuals diagnosed w/breast cancer who are either uninsured or underinsured and reside in MO. Gateway to Hope serves as a breast cancer lifeline for those who do not qualify for government sponsored programs & are unable to afford treatment. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed w/breast cancer & cannot access treatment call Gateway to Hope at 314.569.1113 or www. gthstl.org.

Every Wednesday Take Pounds Sensibly Group

Off

Take Off Pounds Sensibly meets at Christ the King Lutheran Church, 414 S. Church St., St. Peters. Weigh-ins at 8:30 a.m. Business mtg at 10 a.m. Call 636.397.1727 or 636.272.4995 for more info.

Every Tues. 6:30–8 p.m. Chemical Dependency Mtg. Christian Hospital. 314.839.3171.

Every Tues.: 9–10:30 a.m. TOPS Meetings

Take Off Pounds Sensibly. John F. Kennedy Community Center, 315 Howdershell Rd., Florissant. 314.921.7582.

Every Tues.: 5:30–6:30 p.m. Free Pilates Class for Cancer Patients & Families

Bring own mat. Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hosp., 150 Entrance Way, St. Peters.

636.921.9920.

4th Tuesday of each month: 6:30-7:30 p.m. Diabetes Support Group

Hear from experts on how to better manage diabetes & enjoy a healthier life. Located at the H.W. Koenig Medical Bldg., St. Joseph Hospital West.

Call 636.625.5447 for more info.

First Thurs. 10:30–11:30 a.m. Caregiver Class from BJC Home Care Services, free to public, Topics: care, stress relief, legal issues, Siteman Cancer Cntr., Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital conference rm. Info. 314575-3983.

Every Sun.: 6:30 p.m. Every Mon.: 9:30 a.m. Survivors of Incest Anonymous Meetings

Women only. Sundays at Holy Communion Episcopal Church, 7601 Delmar, U. City. 314.993.5421 or 636.561.1407. Mondays in Wentzville, call 636.561.1407.

1st Thur.: 6:30–7:30 p.m. Conquer: A Support Group for Adults with Cancer

Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hosp, 150 Entrance Way, St. Peters. 636.916.9920.

1st Thur.: 7 p.m. Parents W/O Partners, North County Chapter

What’s Happening

healthier life. Join the group and discover how to increase circulation, relaxation, learn the myofascial effects such as increased mobility & tissue elasticity. Free. H.W. Koenig Medical Building at St. Joseph Hospital West.

Register: Call 636.625.5447

Every Wednesday, 3-4:30 p.m.: Weekly Cancer Survivor’s Support Group.

Join other survivors to discuss dealing emotionally w/treatments; managing anxiety, depression; sexuality; finding strength & hope; family and financial pressures; more. Free. At H.W. Koenig Medical Bldg, St. Joseph Hosp.

West. Register: Call 636-639-8600

Every Monday, 7 - 8 p.m. Tobacco Free for Life Support Group.

For those who want to quit smoking, & those who have successfully quit.

Info about how to quit & find reassurance & support. Free. At St. Peters City Hall, One St. Peters Centre Blvd., 63376. Register: Call 636.947.5304 .

Christian Hospital Community Programs

11133 Dunn Rd./I-270/Hwy. 367 interchange, St. Louis, MO 63136, 314747-WELL.

AARP Driver Safety Course

AARP Driver Safety Program is the first & largest refresher course for drivers 50+. Four-hour class will help tune up your driving skills & avoid injury. Christian Hosp., Detrick bldg.

Atrium B (I-270/Hwy. 367 interchange).

Every Tues. 6:30–8 p.m. Chemical Dependency Information Meeting

General Mtg, 2435 Creve Coeur Mill Rd. 314.739.0880.

Help is here to live a drug-free life & cope with life’s challenges. Call 314.839.3171.

2nd Wed. 6–7:30 p.m. Talking Man to Man about Prostate Cancer

Every Wed. 6:30–7:30 p.m.

STEPS Schizophrenia Support Group

Support group for men diagnosed w/ prostate cancer at any stage. Barnes St. Peters. 636.916.9947.

3rd Tues.: 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

Grief & Loss Support Group— DePaul Hospital

Share experiences of grief & loss w/ those who share similar feelings. Led by trained coordinators & Pastor David Boyle. Bridgeton Trails Library, Rm 2. 314.344.7356. Nurses & company. Flu shots avail. for small cost. 115 Piper Hill Dr., St. Peters.

Nationally recognized program provides education & support for those w/schizophrenia. Group facilitated by experienced STEPS nurse. Call 314.839.3171.

SUDOKU answers from page 11

13

Every Sun. 10 a.m. Alcoholics Anonymous Group 109

Meeting held on 11th floor conference Rm. at the Christian Hosp. Open meeting for alcoholics, drugs addicts & their family & friends.

Mental Evaluations

Psychiatric & chemical dependency evaluations are confidential & offered free by the Christian Hospital Cntr. for Mental Health. Christian Hosp. has a geriatric psychiatric unit dedicated to serving mental health needs of geriatric patients.

Free Lung Function Screenings.

Christian Hospital Breathing Cntr. offers free lung function screenings. At Northwest HealthCare, 1225 Graham Rd. Call 314.953.6040.

Every Sunday 10 a.m. Alcoholics Anonymous

11133 Dunn Road at the I-270/Hwy. 367 interchange. Group 109 meets in 11th floor conference room, Christian Hospital. Open meeting for alcoholics, drug addicts, their family & friends.

Every Tuesday, 6:30 - 8 p.m.

Chemical Dependency Information Meeting

Help is here to live a drug-free life & cope with life’s challenges. Call 314.839.3171.

Every Wed., 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

STEPS Schizophrenia Support Group

Nationally recognized program provides education & support for those with schizophrenia. Group is facilitated by an experienced STEPS nurse. For more information, call 314.839.3171.

Christian Hospital Health Evaluations

Mental

Psychiatric and chemical dependency evaluations are confidential and offered free by the Christian Hospital Center for Mental Health. Christian Hospital has a geriatric psychiatric unit dedicated to serving the mental health needs of geriatric patients. Call 314.839.3171.

CROSSWORD answers from page 10

Every Tues.: 5:30–6:30 p.m. Free Pilates Class for Cancer Patients & Families

Bring own mat. Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hosp., 150 Entrance Way, St. Peters.

636.921.9920.

Weekly 6:30 p.m. Survivors of Incest Anonymous Mtg.

12 Step Program for Women sexually abused in childhood. At Holy Communion Episcopal Church, 7601 Delmar, University City. Lower Level.

Call 314.993.5421.

1st & 3rd Tuesdays of the month 12:30 p.m. Survivors of Incest Anonymous Mtg. 12 Step Program for Women who were sexually Abused in Childhood. Meeting held at the Samuel United Church of Christ, 320 N. Forsyth Blvd., Clayton. Meet in Lower Level. For more information, call 314.968.3477.

ST. JOSEPH WEST HOSPITAL 4th Tuesday of each month 6:307:30 p.m.: Diabetes Support Group.

Hear from experts to learn how to better manage diabetes & enjoy a

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January 3, 2018 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

HELP WANTED

NOTICE TO BID

NOVENA PRAYER TO ST. JUDE May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world, now and forever.

Sacred Heart of Jesus, Pray for us. St. Jude, Worker of Miracles, Pray for us.

St. Jude, Helper of the Hopeless, Pray for us.

Say this prayer 9 times a day for 9 days, then publish. Your prayers will be answered.

It has never been known to fail.

P.S. Thank you St. Jude, R.H.

SERVICES www.dawcstl.com SINGERS WANTED www.everyonebenefits.com/GaryB

PET CEMETERY

over 2,500 pet burials; over 6 acres; over 40 yrs old. 314-576-3030 www.memoryparkpetcemetery.info www.memoryparkpetcemetery.info

Call Brooke at 636.697.2414

facebook.com/mycnews STATEWIDE CLASSIFIEDS

CLASSIFIED SPECIAL! For Garage Sales, Moving Sales, Yard Sales, or Sale of Items.

$15.00

CALL 636-697-2414

Check it Out! www.MYCNEWS.com

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • January 3, 2018

15

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Our FREE publications are available in over 700 convenient locations, including every Dierbergs, Schnucks and Shop ’N Save.

16

January 3, 2018 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

“Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle”

T

M O V I E

By Steve Bryan

‘Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle’ honors the original

he late Robin Williams was a living, breathing special effect, which made him perfect for 1995’s “Jumanji.”

Based on the book by Chris Van Allsburg, the film focused on a mystical, jungle-themed board game that altered reality. Williams played Alan Parrish, the adult version of a boy who was sucked into the game and didn’t return until 26 years later. Williams’ physical comedy skills and acting ability made this film a family-friendly hit.

It’s a rare event when a sequel matches the success of the original, but “Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle” does this with ease. With a warm-hearted nod to Mr. Williams, this film captures the fun and excitement of the first movie while providing a comedic showcase for a quartet of talented performers.

The story opens in 1996 as Alex (Nick Jonas) gets his hands on the Jumanji board game discarded at the end of the first film. A dedicated videogame player, he dismisses it at first, but the board transforms itself into a game cartridge. Alex starts playing and ultimately is transported to the jungles of Jumanji like Alan Parrish before him. His disappearance becomes a local legend in his hometown.

Twenty years later, four high school students find the Jumanji cartridge and start to play. Like their predecessors, the quartet also becomes part of the game. Additionally, they take on the physical appearances and abilities of the game characters. That becomes a problem for Bethany (Madison Iseman), a pretty girl who becomes the very male Dr. Shelly Oberon (Jack Black).

Director Jake Kasdan keeps the “Jumanji” franchise alive with a lively follow-up that stays true to the original concept. “Zathura,” a 2005 spaced-themed adventure based on another

Chris Van Allsburg book, failed to recapture the magic even with Kristen Stewart, Dax Shepherd and Josh Hutcherson in the cast.

Kasdan deserves high praise for revisiting the themes of the 1995 original. The game reaches out to those who are troubled and working through issues. Young Alan Parrish had conflicts with his father, but his time in the jungle and subsequent return helped him change for the better. He found inner courage and a new appreciation of how much his dad truly loved him.

The same thing holds true for Spencer (Alex Wolff), a smart guy who wants friends. He does the homework of football star Fridge (Ser’Darius Blain) just to hang out with him.

He also likes Martha (Morgan Turner) but has trouble expressing those feelings. The aforementioned Bethany is completely selfabsorbed and can’t function without a phone.

Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Hart, Jack Black and Karen Gillan play the video game avatars once the teenagers go into the game. These adults do an excellent job as characters completely out of their depth. Johnson nicely captures Spencer’s nervousness and his ultimate acceptance of his

new muscular body. Jack Black plays a teen girl extremely well and Kevin Hart is hilarious as always. Gillan, who is a stand-out in the “Guardians of the Galaxy” movies, gets to kick even more butt here.

“Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle” is the perfect sequel and one that leaves the door open for other adventures. Here’s hoping we don’t have to wait two decades for the next chapter.

“Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle,” rated PG13 for adventure action, suggestive content and some language, currently is playing in theater.

"Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle " photo courtesy Columbia Pictures Born and raised in South St. Louis, Steve Bryan is now based in Anaheim, California, and has been allowed access to movie and television sets to see actors and directors at work. Though his writing has taken him far from St. Louis, Steve is, at heart, still the same wide-eyed kid who spent countless hours watching classic movies at neighborhood theaters.

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