CN: January 23, 2019

January 23, 2019

Supplying the tools to learn

Around Town

By Dr. Gloria J. Johnson. Pg. 2 Foundation provides funds to purchase K-9 for Hazelwood Police Department. Pg. 3

Special Section Vote for your favorite Business in North County. Pg. 4 Senior Living. Pg. 7

Features

Submitted photo

Since 2002, KidSmart has been able to provide over $57 million dollars-worth of free school supplies in the St. Louis area.

Hazelwood-based KidSmart brings school supplies into over 3,000 underserved classrooms in need

By Charlotte Beard KidSmart, currently based out of Hazelwood, is the only free educational supply store in Missouri and it was started back in 2002 by Jennifer Miller. Jill Laux, Director of Charitable Giving for the organization states that it is operated by five employees with the help of a host of volunteers and sponsors.

“Jennifer was a teacher in the Rockwood School District,” stated Laux of the founder, “and was so blown away by the fact that she had many students coming to class without school supplies – they didn’t even have the tools that are essential for learning. She was experiencing this in her own classroom and felt this passion and need to be able to provide her students with school supplies that they needed. That (passion) transformed into

figuring out that right now there are over 90,000 children in St. Louis that do not have school supplies. That’s enough to fill Busch Stadium twice.”

Laux shared that since 2002, Miller has been able to provide over $57 million dollars-worth of free school supplies in the St. Louis area.

“We rely heavily on our volunteer staff, which is amazing, and donors in the St. Louis area. We’ve got corporate volunteers and individual volunteers that (in) what they bring to the table is mind blowing – it’s awesome.”

Volunteers come to KidSmart’s warehouse to help in various ways not limited to unloading, packing and stocking school supplies.

Laux stated, “We also have corporate vol-

unteers who show up at the schools with us to deliver supplies to the kids. In 2018 we pushed into almost 3,000 classrooms; we were able to bring free school supplies directly into these classrooms.”

This school delivery program that KidSmart began last year, On the Go!, is one of their eight programs and partnerships. It is a partnership with Kids Vision for Life and Americorps VISTA. The program’s truck takes its services on the road to classrooms. A day is coordinated with each school KidSmart sponsors for the weekly program.

“In 2018, we also launched pop-up shops because we’ve seen that teachers love that See ‘SUPPLYING’ page 2

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Around Town

January 23, 2019 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

‘SUPPLYING’ from cover experience,” Laux shared of the initiative that uses approximately 100 volunteers. “We would just show up at one of our corporate sponsors’ parking lots and in three hours we were able to distribute about $300,000 worth of school supplies.”

Crafts with Conviction, another of KidSmart’s programs, utilizes over 1,000 offenders in Missouri correctional facilities every year who donate over 500,000 hours of their time to create educational and learning materials.

“Crafts with Conviction is something we do with the Missouri Department of Corrections,” stated Laux. “We have inmates working on projects for us. Some of them have told us that they enjoy working on these projects for kids because they think [their] child may be getting to use some of (the) things that (they’re) making. It’s been a really important project for us.”

Laux shared that any school that is 70 percent free or reduced lunch, is state certified, and has a self-contained classroom teacher, is eligible for KidSmart. The organization currently provides school supplies to 161 schools in the St. Louis area. The goal is to expand regionally.

“We have found that the need is great in a lot of rural areas and across the state in general,” stated Laux.

Though KidSmart’s current exact location is undisclosed to the general public, the organization is working on buying a building that will have a giant warehouse at which teachers can “shop” free for their students. A big capital campaign is underway to raise money for the building initiative.

“School supplies are consumable,” stated Laux. “(Kids) may go through a couple pencils in one month. A lot of times people will focus on that back-to-school time, but we find that teachers really need us in January, and February because

Submitted photo

the glue sticks have been gone through and the crayons are gone. So, it’s a constant need. The mobile way of delivering the supplies to the school can be costly. We’re always looking for underwriting sponsors.”

One of the biggest ways that KidSmart is financially supported, enabling them to provide school supplies for kids, is through Joe Buck’s annual back-to-school celebrity event. Plans are currently underway for the annual event.

Laux stated, “We run on donations and volunteer efforts. We truly believe that education is the way to break the cycle of poverty. So, if there are individuals, organizations or corporate groups that want to donate or be a part of volunteering for KidSmart, we would love to have them.”

KidSmart may be contacted at info@kidsmartstl.org or by phone at 314-291-6211.

Donations or volunteer sign-up is also available on their website: https://kidsmartstl.org/volunteer.

COMMUNITY VOICES Child sexual abuse is something we cannot afford to ignore

By Dr. Gloria J. Johnson Child sexual abuse is an issue that makes people extremely uncomfortable, because it hurts to think about anyone harming children. However, unreported or untreated child sexual abuse not only scars children and destroys families, it also leaves offenders free to abuse and cripple future generations.

Child sexual abuse is sexual activity with a child by an adult, an adolescent or an older child. It includes contact for sexual purposes, molestation, statutory rape, prostitution, pornography, exposure, incest or other sexually exploitative activities. When any adult engages in sexual activity with a child, that is child sexual abuse and is a crime in all 50 states.

Most child sexual abusers are men, and may be respected members of the community drawn to settings where they gain easy access to children like schools, clubs and churches. They come from all age groups, races, religions and socioeconomic classes. Most victims know and trust their abusers. It isn’t strangers our

children have to fear most.

If your child has been sexually abused, one of the most important things you as a parent can do is to respond in a calm manner. Listen to the words and feelings of your child. Believe them - children rarely lie about sexual abuse. It is very important for your child to know that no matter what has happened you will still love them. Also please take the time to reassure your child that he or she has done nothing wrong and that you will do whatever you can to keep him or her safe. Do not try to handle the disclosure on your own. There are resources available to help families through this difficult situation.

When a child is sexually abused, their life is forever changed. However, healing from child sexual abuse is possible. Parents can help their child the most if they not only provide unconditional love but also support from a counselor with experience Life Source Consultants provides free

support and confidential services for women, teens, and children dealing with physical, mental, emotional, verbal, financial or sexual abuse. For Hope and Healing - Call us: 314-524-0686.

Dr. Gloria J. Johnson is the Founder/ CEO of Life Source Consultants, the first non-residential African American domestic and sexual violence organization in the State of Missouri.

Motivated by a deep love and commitment to abused women and to forever change images and perceptions toward domestic violence, family violence and abuse, Johnson shares true life stories of victims in her book “I Cried Alone.” Johnson received a Master’s in Biblical Counseling and a Ph.D. in marriage and family counseling from Biblical Life College and Seminary.

The opinions expressed in this column are the columnist’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 23, 2019

Around Town

Foundation provides funds to purchase K-9 for St. Louis Regional Freightway helps raise awareness on response Hazelwood Police Department to a terrorist attack The Hazelwood Police Department (HPD) has added a new The St. Louis Regional Freightway welcomed representatives from the East-West Gateway Council of Governments, the St. Louis Area Regional Response System (STARRS) and the United States Coast Guard in December to raise awareness about preparations for a regional response plan and capstone exercise in the event of a complex coordinated terrorist attack (CCTA) in the bi-state area. This was the focus of The Freightway’s December Industry Forum, and featured discussions on how the region’s multimodal freight network could be impacted in the event of an attack, and the important role it plays in making sure the region is prepared.

Nick Gragnani, Executive Director of the St. Louis Area Regional Response System (STARRS), spoke about the organization’s role in coordination, planning and response for large-scale critical incidents in the bi-state metropolitan region.

“There is now a responsible party out there – whether it’s through a specialty response team, the urban area search and rescue team, the law enforcement tactical operation team or a team embedded within the hospitals right now – there are response units that can take on mass casualty incidents,” said Gragnani.

Althea de Guzman, Regional Program Manager with Hagerty Consulting, serves as the program coordinator for the St. Louis Regional Complex Coordinated Terrorist Attack. She spoke about the program and how the region’s multimodal freight infrastructure can play a key role in preparing for an attack.

“The whole purpose of the CCTA program is to design and manage planning, training and exercises for the region,” Guzman said. “We are currently creating operational guides for law enforcement, fire, EMS, command and control and special operation units that include SWAT, bomb and arson. We’ll then get to train and exercise them in actual response drills.”

Guzman noted that her team is being proactive in identifying gaps in the region where more collaboration is needed. One gap she noted is the needs and challenges along the Mississippi River.

This sentiment was echoed by Dale Chambers, the St. Louis region’s program manager for the Preparing Communities for CCTA and Hospital Preparedness Program (HPP) grants, who also serves as the coordinator for the regional training and exercise program. “The river creates a whole lot of challenges, and we are relying on everyone to get engaged,” he said. “That could be by providing meeting space, training opportunities or by opening up barges or boats for training exercises.”

One way those challenges are being addressed is through collaboration with the U.S. Coast Guard. Captain Scott Stoermer talked about their tactical resource role with advanced counter-terrorism. Stoermer is responsible for Coast Guard operations that include all or parts of 11 states and more than 2,200 miles of commercially navigable waterways on the upper Mississippi, Missouri and Illinois rivers and their tributaries.

“The marine transportation system is a lifeblood for the national economy and, by extension, our national security,” he said. “This discussion of the governance of the marine transportation system is critical because we’re going to double the need for the use of the maritime transportation system in only a few years. The current $4.7 trillion volume of the economy that is pushed through the maritime transportation system is only getting bigger.”

Matt Taylor has been with the St. Louis County Police Department for more than 17 years and is currently assigned to the department’s Intelligence Unit and detached to the St. Louis Fusion Center. One of three in Missouri and 79 across the nation, the St. Louis Fusion Center was born out of the 9/11 Commission to improve communications and prevent terrorism. It analyzes and responds to reports of suspicious activity and other local/national/global intelligence that is collected or reported.

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law enforcement team to its police force. The team consists of K-9 Jessie – “The Griff Dog” and handler, Officer James P. Petty.

Lt. Andy Eagan, who oversees and supervises the department’s K-9 unit introduced them at a recent city council meeting.

K-9 Jessie – “The Griff Dog” was born in the Netherlands on Oct. 8, 2017. She is a female Belgian Malinois. The HPD conducted a selection process for the handler position and Petty was chosen as the best candidate. He has been with the HPD for over 10 years. He came to the department with K-9 experience from another law enforcement agency.

Both of them started training together on Aug. 27, 2018, with AMPWDA Master Trainer Brian Dowdy at Dowdy Dawgs.

They graduated from this training academy on Nov. 1, 2018.

K-9 Jessie – “The Griff Dog” and Petty are certified in various illicit narcotics detection and tracking techniques. They currently serve the Hazelwood community as part of the department’s K-9 Unit which is in the Neighborhood Patrol Group.

The Ryan Griffin Memorial Foundation, which is a nonprofit group, was created by Rick and Kim Griffin in memory of their son, Ryan. Eagan introduced both of them at the city Photo courtesy city of Hazelwood council meeting where they made an oversized $10,000 check HPD’s new K-9 Handler, Officer James Petty, compresentation to the Hazelwood Police Department. Hazel- mands his partner, K-9 Jessie – “The Griff Dog” to wood Police Chief Gregg Hall was there to accept the check sit and shake hands during their introduction at a and to present a beautiful plaque to the Griffins as a gesture of recent city council meeting. the department’s appreciation for their generosity.

“We want to thank the Griffin family and the Ryan Griffin Memorial Foundation for their continued dedication to law enforcement and their drive to help combat the drug epidemic in our society,” Hazelwood Police Chief Gregg Hall said.

According to Kim Griffin, “My son, Ryan, will forever be 20 years old.” She was the one who found him dead in his room. He passed away from an accidental heroin overdose on April 28, 2007.

Since Ryan was a wrestler, his parents have used the foundation to raise money and provide $78,000 worth of college scholarships for wrestlers in both public and private high schools. In addition, the Foundation has provided funds for several police departments in the St. Louis area to purchase and train K-9s.

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Around Town

January 23, 2019 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

VOTE BEST OF NORTH COUNTY 2019

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BEST OF NORTH COUNTY Vote for your favorite business in North County!

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Winners will be listed in a special section in Community News and awards will be presented at the Chamber luncheon on March 20.

Deadline to vote is March 1, 2019 You can vote online at www.mycnews.com or you can clip this and mail to: Community News, 2139 Bryan Valley Commercial Dr., O’Fallon, MO 63366

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Apartment Complex

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Chiropractor

Child Care

Computer

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Fast Food/Carryout Restaurant

Financial/Investments

Florist

Funeral Home

Golf Course

Heating & Cooling

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Ice Cream Stand

Insurance Agent

Jeweler

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Optometrist/Vision Care

Photographer

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Remodeling/Roofing

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Specialty Shop

Travel Agent

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VOTE TODAY!

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • January 23, 2019

Northwest News

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Northwest Views: Standards and achievement are high in the Pattonville School District

By Dr. Tim Pecoraro There’s so much to be proud of in the Pattonville School District. The results we’ve achieved over the years are a direct reflection of the partnership between our school district and the community we serve. We’re proud of our students, our diversity, and our results. We have a simple mantra: all Pattonville students are capable of high academic performance.

Through this belief, we continue to be recognized for our accomplishments.

• Pattonville has been named one of the top school districts in Missouri and in the top three percent in the country for five consecutive years according to Niche.com.

• Our high school has been recognized by U.S. News and World Report as one of the top high schools in Missouri and the country every year since 2015.

• Our board of education has earned the Missouri Outstanding Board of Education award in various categories for four consecutive years.

• Pattonville was named a Top Workplace by the St. Louis Post Dispatch in each of the last four years.

This year, we ranked 10th among large employers

and for the third consecutive year, we were the highest rated school district in the category.

The momentum we built last year as our community collaborated to update our strategic plan has kept us focused on what’s most important, our students.

We’ve begun working towards developing a more personalized learning environment for all students.

The term personalized learning has many definitions in schools across the country, but for us, it simply reflects our belief that there’s more than one way for students to demonstrate understanding on defined learning. The reality is not all children walk into our schools at the same place academically. With that in mind, we shouldn’t expect them to learn at the same rate. It’s important to note this doesn’t mean there are different standards for different students. In fact, personalized learning is grounded in the belief that we have one Pattonville standard and it will remain high.

Personalized learning will provide opportunities to truly put students at the center of their education and customize learning paths to better meet their needs. I look forward to sharing our progress with personalized learning in the coming years.

I invite you to visit our website at www.psdr3.org or follow me on Twitter at @PattonvilleSupt to keep updated on what’s happening in our school district.

You’ll be amazed at what our students achieve!

Dr. Tim Pecoraro is in his first year as superintendent of the Pattonville School District. He is a 1989 Pattonville graduate. Pecoraro previously served as Pattonville’s assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction from 2007 to 2018. He joined Pattonville in 2001 when he was named principal of Briar Crest Elementary School. Pecoraro’s wife, Kim, is a 1990 Pattonville graduate. They have two children; Shelby, a senior at Mizzou, and Matthew, who is a high school junior.

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

Jewish Family & Children’s Service welcomes new CEO The Board of Directors of Jewish Family & Children’s Service of St. Louis (JF&CS) has appointed Miriam Seidenfeld as Chief Executive Officer effective Feb. 4. After a rigorous national search, Seidenfeld has been chosen to succeed L. Louis Albert in the role, which he has occupied for over 29 years. Albert will be stepping down as CEO but will continue to serve as a consultant for the agency over the coming months.

“This is an ideal time to welcome Miriam as our next CEO,” remarked Board President Stephen Green. “Over the past 29 years the agency has grown and evolved immensely. In addition to our core counseling services, the agency added the Harvey Kornblum Jewish Food Pantry, which now feeds over 6,500 community members each month and the Child Abuse Prevention Program which reaches over 30,000 students each year. The needs of our community are increasing and changing and our financial and operational resources are evolving. We look forward to Miriam’s visionary leadership, experience and energy as she works with our qualified staff and other local agencies to identify the challenges and further increase the positive impact JF&CS has on the lives of those in need in our community.”

Seidenfeld has more than 25 years of experience working with children and families in non-profit settings, and 15 years of nonprofit leadership experience. While Executive Director of Temple Israel in Minneapolis, the eighth

largest Reform congregation in the U.S., she oversaw a $30M capital and endowment campaign, supervised a $20M building project, and led the development and implementation of an ambitious new strategic plan. Before her time with Temple Israel, she directed an innovative career development program for middle and high school youth living in the most underserved neighborhoods in New York City. Her skills in fundraising, strategic planning, management, and operations will guide JF&CS as it expands to meet the changing and growing needs of the community.

Seidenfeld has spent the majority of her career in Minneapolis and New York City, receiving her Bachelor of Science Degree in Human Relations from the University of Minnesota and her Master of Science in Social Work from Columbia University. She is looking forward to making St. Louis her home.

“I am thrilled to be part of the next chapter of Jewish Family & Children’s Service’s uplifting story. I am honored to have been selected to lead this prominent organization that has impacted the lives of so many people over its 150-year history. I am eager to meet and learn from all who are willing to share their knowledge and experiences of the St. Louis community – and to work together to continue providing compassionate support and innovative solutions to those facing life’s challenges.”

www.aperioncare.com

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School

January 23, 2019 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

‘Street Blues’ program brings street hockey to McNair Elementary McNair Elementary students recently were introduced to street hockey thanks to the St. Louis Blues and the team’s Street Blues program.

Two members of the Blues Street Team visited the school Jan. 7 to start a week-long program of teaching street hockey during P.E. class.

Students in third, fourth and fifth grade were given lessons in stick-handling, passing, and shooting.

At the end of the lessons, students were able to take what they had learned and compete in full games against one another.

P.E. teacher Nick Scott registered McNair for the program as a way to allow students to try something new.

“I hope this gives our students an opportunity they may not have ever had,” Scott said. “I want

them to enjoy P.E. and the different sports P.E. encompasses.”

As part of the program, the school received an entire set of hockey sticks, goalie pads and masks, and two goals, allowing McNair to incorporate hockey into its P.E. curriculum in the future.

The Street Blues initiative began in 2015 as a way to get St. Louis-area students introduced to and interested in playing hockey.

Scott said it’s a great opportunity to provide an experience for students, get active, and partner with the community.

“I think it’s very important to get our students involved in our community and to have our community involved with our students,” he said. “The St. Louis Blues are an amazing organization that always wants to give back.”

Photo courtesy Hazelwood School District McNair P.E. teacher Nick Scott works with students on their passing skills

Three Normandy educators recognized for excellence in their field

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Desiree Green

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Christopher Young-El

Three educators in the Normandy Schools Collaborative have been given “Apple for the Teacher” awards from the Alpha Zeta Chapter of Iota Phi Lambda Sorority Inc. Desiree Green, a fashion design teacher at Normandy High School, Audrey Woods, a teacher at Lucas Crossing Elementary School and Dr. Christopher Young-El, principal at the Normandy 7th-8th Grade Center, all received the prestigious

Audrey Woods

awards for their exemplary work in education.

The Normandy faculty members were recognized along with their peers at a special ceremony held in November.

Iota Phi Lambda is a business and professional women’s organization founded in 1929. It provides scholarships for high school and college students interested primarily in business education.

Photos courtesy Normandy Schools Collaborative

www.ExploreCatholicSchools.org

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • January 23, 2019

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Preparing an emergency plan for your unique needs Disasters such as hurricanes, floods, fires and other emergency situations are all too common these days. In fact, about four out of five Americans live in counties hit by weather events since 2007, according to disaster declaration data from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). That illustrates how these events can impact nearly everyone and the importance of having a plan.

This is particularly true for older people and people with disabilities.

Health issues, mobility concerns and use of assistive devices can create additional challenges during emergencies. However, there are simple steps everyone can take to prepare now for what may come later.

• Discuss your plan. Talk about preparedness with friends, neighbors and family members. Contact your city or county emergency management office as well as service providers, such as meals programs. Discussing the topic can help you create a support network, find local resources for preparation and identify contents for a custom emergency kit.

• Create a contact list. Make a list of people and places you can turn to for support in an emergency, including people you may need to help or notify of your safety. Include phone numbers, email addresses and physical addresses. Also include insurance providers, health care professionals and medical supply companies. Keep one copy on hand and put another copy in a watertight container in your emergency kit.

• Prep for power outages. Ask your health care providers about how to prepare for power outages, especially

if you depend on medical devices that use electricity, such as oxygen, dialysis or a power wheelchair. Write down your plan, along with information about your devices, and keep a copy in your emergency kit.

• Make a list of all medications and medical supplies. Keep a list of your medicines, including dosages and allergies, along with other essential supplies like extra eyeglasses, hearing-aid Photo courtesy of Getty Images batteries and at least a week’s supply of all prescription medicines in your emergency kit.

extra batteries, blankets, cash, extra clothing and personal hygiene items. Keep your emergency kit in an easy-to-access location.

Learn more about preparedness at acl.gov/programs/ emergency-preparedness.

• Plan for transportation. Have a plan in place in case you need to evacuate or get to health care services during an emergency. Know what equipment you need and how you will transport it. Perhaps a neighbor or family member can include you in their evacuation plans. Set this up beforehand and plan how to coordinate in the event of a disaster.

• Plan for pets and service animals. Include food, medications and other supplies your pets may need in your emergency kit, too.

www.LifeCareCenterOfFlorissant.com

• Pack the essentials. In addition to your medical information and needs, don’t forget essentials such as non-perishable food, water, a weather radio, a flashlight,

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www.BridgeAtFlorissant.com

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What’s Happening

January 23, 2019 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

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

EVENTS Jan. 26: Health fair

Vitendo4africa invites all to a health fair. Mercy Mobile mammogram van will be on site to offer free mammogram screening. Call 314-251-6300 to set appointment.The event will be held at Christ Covenant Church at 3465 Shackleford Rd. in Florissant from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Jan. 26: Weight loss challenge

Just Lose It Weight Loss Challenge begins Jan. 26 at Christian Hospital in the Detrick Building Atrium at 11133 Dunn Rd. from 9-11 a.m. Join your neighbors in this friendly competition to get active, eat healthier and make the lifestyle changes you have been putting off. The incentive?

If having more energy and looking and feeling healthier aren’t enough of a reward, there are prizes too. Registration is required. Space is limited.

Requirements for entry are: you must be 18 years of age or older, pay $20 entry fee, register for the Jan. 26 kickoff by calling 747-WELL (9355) and attend the Jan. 26 kick-off. To register for Just Lose It, call 314-747-WELL (9355) or toll-free 1-877-747-WELL (9355).

Jan. 26: Art exhibition

“150: A Visual Meditation on the Psalms” opens at Good Shepherd Arts Center at 252 S. Florissant Road in Ferguson, on Saturday, Jan. 5 with a reception from 3 - 5 p.m. This exhibit features artists local to the St. Louis metro region. It will run through Jan. 26. Admission is free and open to all. Call 314-522-1155 for details or go to https://www.goodshepherdarts.org.

Jan. 27: Catholic Schools open house The national celebration of Catholic

Schools Week begins Jan 27. Each of the schools in North County will be hosting an open house that Sunday, welcoming visitors to explore the school community and facility and find out more about enrolling their child(ren) in preschool through junior high. Throughout the week they will also celebrate with special activities and events. For more information visit www.explorecatholicschools.org, which features a map of the schools and lists contact information and open house hours for each school.

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.

Monthly: Free legal services

Every month CORP Legal Services provides: legal document preparations such as wills, deeds and power of attorneys at no cost to St. Louis County seniors 60 years and older.

There is an income limit. Contact the coordinator at 314-615-0931 for more information.

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: Choral Art Singers

Choral Arts Singers resume practice on Mondays, at 7 p.m. at Transfiguration Episcopal Church, 1860 Lake St. Louis Blvd. in Lake St. Louis. This session will include performance at St. James Cathedral, Chicago on June 25. New singers are welcome. Auditions are not required. See www.concertarts.org.

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.

Mondays-Thursdays: Volunteers needed

Community Action Agency of St. Louis County is in need of volunteers to stock shelves, sort food shipments and pack bags for Food Pantry Clients Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. Two to four hour shifts are available. If you are interested, please contact Cheryl Piece at 314-446-4440 or cpiece@caastlc.org for additional information.

Tuesdays: Chair Zumba

Chair Zumba every Tuesday from 2:15 – 3 p.m. at The Bridge At Florissant at 1101 Garden Plaza Dr. (Parker @ Arlington). For more information call 314-831-0988.

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

Tuesdays: Vietnam Veterans Association meeting

Chapter 794 Vietnam Veterans Association meets on the third Tuesday of each month at VFW Post 4105 at 410 St. Francois in Florissant. Meetings start at 7 p.m. For more information contact Walter Kaiser at 314-921-2132.

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

Wednesdays: TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) meets from 6 p.m. -7:30 p.m. at St. Andrews United Methodist Church at 3975 N. Hwy 67 in Florissant. For more information contact Norma at 314-306-4731.

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 a.m. 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

Dunn Rd. For more information, contact Jamie Stevens at 314.653.5331.

Thursdays: Bingo

Community Bingo at the Bridge At Florissant, at 1101 Garden Plaza Drive (intersection of Parker and Arlington) takes place on the fourth Thursday of each month from 2:30 - 3:30 p.m. There will be snacks and prizes. For more information call 314-831-0988.

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: Korean War Veterans Association meeting If you had military service in Korea between Sept. 3, 1945 and the present you are cordially invited to a meeting of Chapter 4, North County Korean War Veterans Association. Meetings take place at the VFW Post 4105 at 410 St. Francois in Florissant on the first Thursday of the month, starting at 7 p.m. For more information contact Walter Kaiser at 314-921-2132.

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 6:45 p.m., Knights of Columbus Hall, 1216 Teson Rd. in Hazelwood. For more information call 314.731.9330

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

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

Every 3rd Friday of the month: Bingo

Bridgeton Trails Library Branch Programs:

Fridays: Celebrate Recovery

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

3-4 p.m., Center for Senior Renewal, Detrick Building 1st floor, 11133

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

For 25 years Celebrate Recovery has been helping everyday folks find freedom from whatever difficulty you are experiencing in your life. This Christ-centered, 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.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • January 23, 2019 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

On the fourth Saturday of each month, grief support meeting “A Way With Words Ministry” meets at 12:30 p.m. at Community Christ Fellowship, rear, at 121 Williams Blvd. in Hazelwood, 1/4 mile south of Hwy 270 off Florissant Rd. There are a variety of topics monthly. You are not alone. Come help your heart heal with others. For more information call 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 314-6302671 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 attend. For more information visit www.jenningsdodads.org.

CHURCH

mentia, 314.653.5123.

Tuesdays & Thursdays: Chapel of the Cross Lutheran Church GriefShare Support Group

Nutrition Education:

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.

1st 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 de-

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

Christian Center:

Hospital

What’s Happening

9

Sundays: Support Group for Women Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse

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

SUDOKU answers from page F-1

CROSSWORD answers from page F-2

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

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

Recovery

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

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 314-822-2066 or visit www.Nicotine-Anonymous.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

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

10

Sports

January 23, 2019 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Sports you see with Gary B...

Pitcher from the Rascals signed by Cleveland Indians The River City Rascals are your professional baseball team that plays home games in O’Fallon at CarShield Field.

Recently they announced that 2018 All-Star pitcher Hector Hernandez has signed a minor league contract with the Cleveland Indians.

Hernandez, 27, played the 2017 and 2018 seasons with the Rascals, compiling an 18-15 record with a 3.55 ERA. The 2018 All-Star led the Rascals pitching staff last season in complete games (two), innings pitched (117.0) and strikeouts (107).

Originally a 10th round draft pick of the St. Louis Cardinals in 2009, the southpaw from Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico played parts of the 2015 and 2016 season with AAA Reno. He joins the Indians organization after posting a 2.18 ERA in six starts with Santurce of the Puerto Rican Winter League.

The defending West Division champion Rascals begin the 2019 campaign against the Washington Wild Things on May 9. * Going to the Bigs Rascals will return to CarShield Field for the upcoming season The city of O’Fallon and the River City Rascals have agreed on new lease terms, ensuring the team will return to CarShield Field for the 2019 season.

The team will be playing their 21st season in O’Fallon.

“The Rascals have been a prime attraction for O’Fallon and St. Charles County residents for 20 years, and we are proud to continue serving our fans with affordable, family-friendly entertainment in 2019,” said Rascals Team President Dan Dial.

“Countless O’Fallon residents have attended Rascals games and events over that time and it is our strong desire to remain a part of our community and provide this unique experience for many years to come.”

“We are pleased to have the River City Rascals back for the 2019 season,” said Tom Drabelle, Communications Director for the city of O’Fallon. * It’s official

www.TheSarahCommunity.com www.westcommunitycu.org

Ambush players pick up honors for week six The St. Louis Ambush is your professional indoor soccer team that plays in the Major League Soccer League with their home games at the Family Arena.

The Ambush forward Zach Reget has earned Team of the Week honors from the Major Arena Soccer League for Week Six of the 2018-19 season. It marks the second time Reget has earned the weekly accolade.

Three other Ambush players, goalkeeper Paulo Nascimento and defenders Axel Duarte and Felipe Silva, received honorable mention from the MASL in the awards.

The Ambush played one game during Week Six, a 5-4 win over the Florida Tropics at the Family Arena on Jan. 5.

Reget tallied two goals, including the game-winner, in that contest. He is having a stellar rookie season thus far. Zach is tied for fourth in the league in goals scored overall and also leads all rookie players in that category.

Duarte helped the Ambush stave off a Tropics’ comeback by blocking three shots in Saturday’s game. He currently leads the league in blocked shots with 13.

Felipe contributed to the team’s offense and defense on Saturday, posting his first goal and first assist of the season while blocking two shots.

Goalkeeper Paulo stopped eight Florida shots in 12 attempts in earning his third win of the season on Saturday.

The next Ambush home game is slated for Feb. 1 at 7:05 p.m. at the Family Arena when the Florida Tropics comes to town again.

For those unable to attend in person, all MASL games are webcast live at masl.tv. * Nice hardware 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, among many other activities.

www.mycnews.com • Community News • January 23, 2019

Recipe: Warm up with sweet and savory comfort food Mocha-Rubbed Duck Breast with Cherry and Red Wine Pan Sauce

Feature

F-1

– 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.

Prep time: 2 hours, 10 minutes | Cook time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4 Ingredients: Mocha Rub: 2 tablespoons brown sugar 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika 1/2 teaspoon ground coffee 2 teaspoons kosher salt 1 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/2 teaspoon cocoa powder 4 duck breasts, thawed

Cherry and Red Wine Pan Sauce: 2 tablespoons reserved duck fat 1/2 cup minced shallots 3/4 cup dry red wine 1 1/2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar 1 1/2 teaspoons granulated sugar 5 ounces frozen dark sweet cherries, thawed and halved 5 sprigs fresh thyme salt, to taste ground black pepper, to taste toasted sliced almonds, for garnish

Directions: To make Mocha Rub: In small bowl, mix brown sugar, paprika, coffee, salt, pepper and cocoa powder. Set aside.

Pat duck breasts dry and score according to package directions. Use half of rub on meat side of breasts. Cover breasts and refrigerate at least 2 hours or overnight.

In cold saute pan, place duck breasts skin-side down. Place pan over lowmedium heat 8-12 minutes, or until fat is rendered and skin is crisp and brown.

Turn breasts over and sprinkle remaining rub on skin side. Cook breasts 1-2 minutes skin-side up. Turn breasts back to skin-side down 1-2 minutes to caramelize rub. Reserve approximately 2 tablespoons duck fat for sauce.

Heat oven to 350 F. Place duck breasts skin-side up on rimmed baking sheet; bake 5-6 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 155 F. Let breasts rest 4-5 minutes before slicing. Temperature will rise during resting period to reach 165 F. To make Cherry and Red Wine Pan Sauce: Place saute pan with reserved duck fat over medium heat. Add shallots and cook until softened. Add wine to pan to deglaze. Stir in balsamic vinegar, sugar, cherries and thyme sprigs; simmer until reduced. Remove thyme sprigs.

Add salt and pepper, to taste.

Serve sauce over cooked duck breasts. Garnish with toasted almond slices.

SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 9

Find more comfort food recipes and tips for cooking with duck at mapleleaffarms.com

‘Captain Marvel’ is the 21st Marvel Cinematic Universe release

W

Movie:

By Steve Bryan

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.

ho ever thought that a playboy in a metal suit would usher in a new age in superhero movies? In 2008, Jon Favreau directed “Iron Man,” the live action adaptation of the long-running Marvel comic book series.

Unlike Ang Lee’s “Hulk” and the “Fantastic Four” films, this heroic adventure hit all the right notes by staying true to the source material.

Nearly 11 years and 20 films later, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) shows no sign of slowing down. In terms of box office returns, 2019 could be a banner year for Marvel Studios and the Walt Disney Company, possibly exceeding the successes of “Avengers: Infinity War” and “Black Panther.” That’s saying a lot since the latter movie could become an Oscar contender.

“Captain Marvel,” the 21st MCU film, is a solo outing featuring one of Marvel’s strongest female characters. In the original 1970’s comic book, Carol Danvers, played by Brie Larson in the film, was caught in an explosion with Captain Marvel, a warrior from a race called the Kree. That accident passed some of Marvel’s powers and abilities to her, and she became the hero called “Ms. Marvel.”

The comic book truly was a product of the 1970s, with Danvers showing more skin in costume than her male counterpart ever did.

Photo courtesy Marvel Studios

An encounter with Rogue, a villain at this time in the Marvel Universe, drained her powers and most of her memory. Carol later

allied herself with the “X-Men” and, during one outer space encounter, she acquired new powers and became Binary.

Carol Danvers may have started as a background character in her first 1960’s appearances, but her own comic title added depth to the character. The “Captain Marvel” movie is set in 1995, a time when pagers were more prevalent than cell phones (you had to find a pay phone to answer the page.) That’s why Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson) sends a distress call to Captain Marvel at the end of “Avengers: Infinity War” on an antiquated pager.

Based on the trailers, the movie stays in line with Carol’s struggles with her identity. She has incredible abilities from the explosion, but she suffers from some memory loss. Nick Fury is on hand to ask for her help and, along the way, old memories bubble to the surface. The reality she knows has some cracks and gaps in it.

“Captain Marvel” is a strong addition to the MCU as Phase 3 of the Marvel movies comes to a close (“Spider-Man: Far from Home” opens Phase 4.) Based on the trailers, Brie Larson embodies Carol Danvers and her struggles quite well. This one is going to be good.

“Captain Marvel” is set for wide release on March 8.

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Feature

January 23, 2019 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

HELP WANTED

SINGERS WANTED

NOVENA PRAYER TO ST. JUDE May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world, now and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus, Pray for us. St. Jude, Worker of Miracles, Pray for us. St. Jude, Helper of the Hopeless, Pray for us.

www.algonquinnurses.com

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

It has never been known to fail.

Thank you, St. Jude. R.H.

SERVICES

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

STATEWIDE CLASSIFIEDS

Check it Out! www.MYCNEWS.com

www.mycnews.com • Community News • January 23, 2019

Feature

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CLASSIFIEDS

www.treesbywoody.net

www.scrubbydutch.com

Dannegger Brothers Contracting, Inc • Foundation & Basement Repairs • Waterproofing • Piering • Mudjacking • Stress Bracing • Concrete Flatwork

314-993-1833

www.DanneggerBrothers.com www.danneggerbrothers.com Insured | Experienced | Local | Quality

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

www.cozyhomecleaners.org

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Feature

January 23, 2019 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

Yeggs

John Hanna

Crossword: Superbowl

‘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 So, kids today are taking on a risky and daring challenge. “Setting their phones aside for more than an hour,” you say? We all know that would cause irreparable damage to their eye-hand coordination; their eyeballs would permanently cross and their texting fingers would curl up and atrophy within moments.

How about a second guess? “Tide Pod challenge?” Oh please, that was so last year.

Nope and nope. This time around they’re taking dares based on the Netflix horror movie “Bird Box.” The premise of the show is to stay blindfolded to keep from seeing some sort of horrific apparition on the prowl that would force them into doing unspeakable acts – like surrendering their cellphones. To avoid this peril, they must cover their eyes to complete daily tasks. Of course, this has spurred bored people to also try their luck at it and wander aimlessly throughout the city dodging traffic and light poles. One reckless dimwit even hopped into a car and drove blindfolded through traffic until one of those pesky light poles stopped all her fun.

Many kids have jumped onboard this new craze thinking, “Hey, this might be fun instead of doing my homework or mowing the lawn or cleaning my room or taking a bath.”

What’s with today’s kids? Silly old-fashioned me. There’s probably an app on their phones to get someone to do their homework and household chores and even take baths for them.

Back in the day I had a risky and daring challenge. It was to sneak into the house when my mom was watching soap operas. If caught, she

Bird brains

would engage me in the wooden spoon challenge. The object was to see how many licks I could sustain before making it safely outdoors.

Mom had no mercy.

Me: “But Mom, I have to use the bathroom!”

Mom: “That’s what

the fields are for!” Slam.

The only pod challenge we kids engaged in was eating milkweed pods. It was out of necessity because it was past lunchtime and Mom hadn’t left our bologna sandwiches out on the milk box yet.

After eating our lunch we’d rinse it down with a gulp straight from the garden hose then ride off on our bikes to parts unknown until sunset; all done without checking in with our parents on our cellphones.

Now that I think of it, I guess dangerous challenges haven’t changed much.

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.

ACROSS 1. Hose hue 5. Flower precursor 8. Gershwin brother 11. Scottish valley 12. After hedge or mutual 13. Headquartered 15. *Cleats, helmet, pads 16. Hip bones 17. Road-tripping guide 18. *Hometown of first Super Bowl winner 20. Big Bang’s original matter 21. Be 22. Bygone bird 23. *Last year’s Super Bowl champions 26. Came around the corner 30. 100% 31. Donate, 2 words 34. Salty drop 35. #50 Down, pl.

37. Mythical giant bird 38. Latin dance 39. A famous Amos 40. Packing a punch 42. In the know 43. Relating to River Styx 45. Sodium ____, or NaI 47. Needlefish 48. Beta’s follower

50. Phishing attack 52. *NFL Trophy name 55. Completely or exactly 56. Adam and Eve’s son 57. U, on the road 59. Casts a ballot 60. Barn top?

61. Do like exhaust pipe 62. *2019 Super Bowl broadcasting network 63. Tally 64. *Player’s 40, e.g.

DOWN 1. Bird-to-be 2. Horsefly 3. Infantry’s last rows 4. Unwind 5. Precursor to #5 Across, pl.

6. Uniate church member 7. June 6, 1944 8. Small island 9. Paper unit 10. *As entertaining as Super Bowl game?

12. Last line to cross 13. Louisiana swamp 14. *Home of MercedesBenz Stadium 19. *Goodell and such 22. “My” in French 23. Sunrise side, pl.

24. Give out

25. 1989 Civil War drama 26. *Player with most Super Bowl points scored 27. Capital territory of India 28. Alleviated 29. Window treatment 32. *Grid____ 33. Leprechaun’s gold holder 36. *Popular Super Bowl nickname 38. Pore in a leaf 40. Even ____ in golf 41. Jack be that!

44. Poetic feet 46. Flitted 48. Spoil 49. Change the Constitution 50. No neatnik 51. Butcher’s piece, pl.

52. Mount Veniaminof output 53. Russian governmental agency 54. Pupil controller 55. Pipe material 58. Indefinite degree

SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 9