CN: January 24, 2018

January 24, 2018

Normandy bounces back

Around Town West Community Credit Union scholarships available. P.4

Community Voices

By Carl Green. P.2

Special Sections

The Golden Years. P.6

Food

Photo courtesy Normandy Schools Collaborative Sixth graders in the Normandy Schools Collaborative participated in a leadership and learning camp at Camp Wyman in Eureka. Wyman Center provides wraparound services for students and families in the collaborative.

Normandy Schools Collaborative receives provisional accreditation and prepares to welcome back students who were transitioned out of the district

Make game day a win. P.9

By Charlotte Beard Normandy Schools Collaborative (NSC) is now provisionally accredited, effective Jan. 2.

This provision acknowledges that NSC has met certain criteria – scoring in the provisionally accredited range for the past two years. Now the collaborative is doing the work to start incorporating transition students back into its schools after this 20172018 school year.

Much of the logistics for the transition phase fall under the direction of Tina Clark-Scott, Assistant Superintendent for Academics and Support Services. Scott confirmed that four districts have determined that Normandy students must return to their home district. Those districts returning students to Normandy are: Ferguson-Florissant, Hazelwood, Pattonville and Ritenour.

Superintendent Charles Pearson shared three areas of focus for NSC during remaining school year: 1) identifying the transition needs and pre-planning accordingly, 2) conducting community and parent forums, and 3) registration for transition students.

In identifying needs, the collaborative began some processes last year, starting with identifying the schools that each student is currently attending, and which schools have stated students can continue to a certain point.

As a result, this information has helped them

assess potential class sizes at the relative NSC schools, as well as any needed adjustments in the ratio of students to staff.

In addition, letters will be customized to the parents notifying them specifically of the agreement with the district from which their child will be returning. Scott shared that NSC will be collaborating with the school districts on those letters. Additionally, each school will create a brochure that will be used to inform transitioning parents and students about the school as it is now. There will be updates to NSC’s website as well, providing information about the curriculum programming and a “transition-specific” page.

“We’ll also be doing a series of community and parent forums,” Pearson shared. “The next one is going to be Jan. 30 at Beyond Housing headquarters in Normandy. We’ve already done three sessions where we had just open forums for parents to come and talk to us, get any questions they wanted answered; this was prior to our being reclassified. We want to make ourselves available to see if they have questions about our programming, if they have questions about our future planning, if they have [questions regarding] us no longer providing transportation, if they have questions about whether we’re still paying tuition…just any questions they have

about anything. We’re going to be continuing a series of public forums to answer those questions.”

Beyond Housing is located on 6506 Wright Way in Pine Lawn. The forum will begin at 6 p.m. There are plans to move the meeting location around to various locations in the district to make it convenient for all parents.

NSC is tentatively planning to do a halfday open house in April which would allow transition parents and students to go to any school in the district and talk to teachers and principals about curriculum programming.

Pearson also shared next semester’s registration plans.

“We’re going to get the transcripts from the schools…so that we can handle early registration. They can find out what classes [they will] have, what classes are similar or would be the next [option] in their request [for classes] they’d be taking if they were still at the other school. When we’re registering [returning] students in the spring for classes, our goal is to be registering those [transition] students as well,” he said.

Pearson stressed that the administration wants families to feel comfortable and informed about who NSC is now versus who See ‘BOUNCES BACK’ page 2

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Movie

Sally Hawkins goes for Oscar gold in “The Shape of Water”.

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Weather FRIDAY Sunny/ Rain Late 55/43 SATURDAY Rain Likely 51/30 SUNDAY Sunny 40/25 FirstWarn Weather

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

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Around Town

January 24, 2018 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

‘BOUNCES BACK’ from cover it was when students left.

Pearson shared that there has been both favorable and unfavorable parental responses to the transition back to Normandy. Some have stated that they are happy with their child’s return and trust NSC with their child while other parents have voiced that the collaborative should continue to pay transportation costs for children to continue at Francis Howell.

Francis Howell, in St. Charles County, is one of the schools not requiring children to return currently. There have also been parents who have congratulated the district, but prefer their child finishes in the district where they have been attending and are subsequently considering moving into that district for their child.

“All the parents recognize we are continuing to pay tuition,” Pearson stated. “There is a cap rate, but we’re still paying it, [however] we’re no longer paying transportation to transfer out. My only challenge has always been that the current law requires that money would be leaving our district and the students in our district to go somewhere else, and Photo courtesy Normandy Schools Collaborative that has an impact on the 75 percent of our children who stayed and Members of the Normandy Marching Band perform during the homecoming parade last fall. The marching band is one of several extracurthe parents who are still moving into the district. There needs to be a ricular activities offered by the collaborative. different funding formula.” what is needed so that they are able to provide it.

Pearson did stress that despite what some parents have found Pearson stated that he wants parents and students to know that the same place unfavorable, past meetings have been communicable. they left four years ago is not the same place to which they are returning.

“Individuals [are] initially pretty upset and they talk about it. At the end of our last “Our mission statement says, ‘Changing lives today.’ We’re providing services. session it was clean. It was cordial. People were able to say what they really felt, but We’re working to provide opportunities for internships, and each year – better and no one left angry,” he said.

Scott shared that Normandy is excited about students returning and feedback better programming. And in doing all that, we believe that we’re providing a solid from parents. She believes that children should be able to attend school within the education for the future of our children. So, that is what’s driving us. That’s what district where they live. Her hope is that parents will tell Normandy’s administration is going to continue to drive us,” Pearson said.

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

COMMUNITY VOICES Communicating through text and rap

By Carl Green Recently, I was promoted to Director of Marketing and Communications for People’s Family of Corporations. I realize even more now that an essential life skill is communicating effectively. Communication is the process by which we exchange information between individuals or groups of people. It is a process where we try as clearly and accurately as we can, to convey our thoughts, intentions, and objectives.

Part of my job entails being ultimately responsible for the organizations marketing activities and overseeing the development and delivery of a fully integrated marketing strategy for the business. The communications management part includes being concerned about the public’s perception of the organization and what we offer. I also direct internal communications, press releases, social media presence and connection to the press.

Recently, these responsibilities drove me to reevaluate two forms of communications widely used today: communication through texting and communicating through music; particularly rap music. Both of these have their place and believe it or not; I enjoy both. I actually do not rap, but in particular scenarios, I have to choose music for event purposes.

I feel a balanced view, and proper use of both texting and music choice is essential. First, let’s discuss texting, a vital part of communication today. Recently a friend became upset and disagreed with me on a specific issue that resulted in a text interchange that lasted about twenty minutes. After those twenty minutes, I thought, let me call this person to talk one on one.

He did not answer the phone but continued to text. Not only was this exhausting for me, but clarifications were missing, understandings were missing and a resolution was missing.

Texting certainly has its place. To name a few, it allows people the chance to send and receive short messages. Text messaging allows you to communicate with others in situations where a face-to-face or phone conversation is not possible or appropriate; like during a meeting. Texting can also be a good form of record keeping because you can refer back to the contents of a conversation. In some cases, you can save on your phone bill depending on who you use as your phone vendor. Texting may be cheaper than a voice call. Marketing results are attained through texting. But what are the disadvantages? No need to elaborate on the dangers of texting and driving. I want to talk about people reading their text and allowing their mindset to shape the interpretation of that particular text. In cases like this, the text is interpreted dramatically different from the real

intent. This form of communication becomes ambiguous at this point causing effective communication to go all the way left field.

I feel text messages should be sent in the following situations: to give someone a light compliment, when telling someone when are or where to meet, sharing a photo or when you just cannot talk to someone on the phone. I, for the most part, will not text if I’m angry with the person, or I need to have a serious conversation with them. Also, if what I need to say can be wrapped up in two-minute conversation verses a 20 minute back-and-forth exchange through text; I choose to converse on the phone.

Now let’s discuss communication through music. As previously stated, I actually enjoy some rap music. Some of the lyrics are amazing, not to mention the particular beats and how it draws attention to social and urban issues. Some of the rap artists seem like characters that demonstrate their level of creativity. But recently, I had to reevaluate my degree of selectivity when it comes to this genre of music. Think about this: a lot of mainstream rap talks about doing drugs, about how “tough” they are, and a lot of degrading remarks about women.

I realize that chivalry is not dead for some of us men who had mothers that taught us to be gentlemen as young boys.

This training as a child from my mom always makes me think that ladies should be treated the way men treat their mothers, with the utmost respect and like queens. My mom would approach a door with us boys and stand at the door waiting for us to open it for her. Honestly, I felt proud each time my mother would do this, and it was my pleasure to open the door for her.

The nature and influence of gangster rap have had on society are apparent. People agree that it is not always a good thing.

At the same time we know from a legal standpoint there is not much we can do about this. I will continue to listen to rap music and include it among my entertainment repertoire. But, ultimately, it is upon me to decide what rap music I surround myself with Carl Green currently serves as Director of Marketing and Communications for People’s Family of Corporations. He has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Communications from Washington University, St. Louis.

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 24, 2018

Around Town

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Removing a pest MDC joins partners to remove Asian carp from Creve Coeur Park Lake Visitors to St. Louis County’s popular Creve Coeur Lake Park may experience some temporary restrictions in using the park for a two-week period between Jan. 21 and Feb. 17. The long-term benefit, however, should be the near-eradication of the lake’s biggest nuisance – invasive Asian carp.

Asian carp have been damaging the Creve Coeur Park Lake fishery for years. After several attempts to remove them with limited success, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), St. Louis County Department of Parks and Recreation, U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) have formed a partnership to execute an innovative Asian carp removal project this January and February. Additionally, agency biologists will test new methods of estimating invasive Asian carp abundance, as well as tracking, herding and capturing invasive Asian carp in lake situations.

Invasive Asian carp (primarily bighead carp and silver carp) entered Creve Coeur Park Lake when the lake was flooded by the Missouri River sometime prior to 2009.

They quickly began to compete with native fish for food and space, reducing sportfishing quality. Recent fisheries surveys and angler reports suggest white crappie fishing has declined since invasive Asian carp entered the lake.

Asian carp also cause conflicts by leaping at and striking lake users, and have been the source of several nuisance fishkills.

The partnership will use a technique called the unified method, which has been adapted from proven techniques used in Asia. The unified method involves a combination of fish herding, clearing, blocking reentry, and driving actions using several boats, long nets, and dozens of staff.

Depending on weather conditions, the agencies will employ the effort over a twoweek period between Jan. 21 and Feb. 17. Winter conditions may concentrate Asian carp populations and limit their ability to jump over block nets, making removal efforts more efficient. However, ice coverage on the lake will require suspension of the project until the lake clears.

Biologists will divide the lake into cells using nets. They will herd/drive fish out of these cells with boats employing acoustic sound, localized electricity and nets. As each cell is cleared of fish, biologists will block their re-entry to that cell with nets.

This methodical process will limit access to increasingly larger portions of the lake and push fish toward a central collection point.

At the collection point, biologists will confine all fish into a large corral with nets and then herd them into a live collection net. They will sort the collected fish, and return native fish to Creve Coeur Park Lake while removing all Asian carp.

The project will field up to 12 boats and 50 staff each day during challenging winter conditions. Work on the lake and shore will require open access for equipment and people safety.

As a result,

public access to Creve Coeur Park Lake, as well as Sailboat Cove and its surrounding area (including trails) will be temporarily prohibited over the twoweek period. If weather conditions require a change, the public closure period will be altered as well.

Complete and selective Photo courtesy USFWS removal of all Asian carp from Creve Coeur Large numbers of silver carp jump in front of an electro fishing boat. MDC will join with St. Louis County, the U.S. Geological Survey, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in a cooperative, cutting-edge effort to irradiate invasive Asian carp Park Lake is virtually from Creve Coeur Lake this winter. impossible. However, the unified method has been used twice in the U.S. with fishing should re-establish within three-to-five years. success rates as high as 70 percent. Learning from those Unable to reproduce in lake situations, the remaining experiences, the partnership hopes to remove up to 90 Asian carp populations will dwindle. percent of the Asian carp from Creve Coeur Park Lake.

On a broader scale, the project could demonstrate If most of the Asian carp are removed, biologists that a successful method for removing Asian carp from expect remaining native sportfish to re-establish their lake systems exists and could be ready for future use in historic numbers and sizes. Previously good crappie Creve Coeur Park Lake and throughout the U.S.

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Around Town

January 24, 2018 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Gone to the dogs

Residence Inn and Fairfield Inn & Suites opens in Maryland Heights

Residence Inn and Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott recently opened at 11918 Westline Industrial Dr. in Maryland Heights.

Photo courtesy city of Florissant

The cast of the St. Louis Family Theatre production of “Henry and Mudge” got a visit from Eddie the Florissant Police Dog.

Residence Inn and Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott recently opened at 11918 Westline Industrial Dr. in Maryland Heights.

The 119,000-square-foot hotel, which was the previous home of Clayton Engineering, cost $25 million.

This is Marriott’s first dual-branded hotel in the St. Louis area.

The hotel includes 96 suites for the Residence Inn and 88 rooms for the Fairfield Inn & Suites. The property features a state-of-the-art fitness center, indoor pool, meetings rooms, guest laundry facilities, and backyard seating areas with a grill and pergola. Located on Page Rd. east of I-270, the hotel is adjacent to Westport Plaza, Worldwide Technology headquarters, and Edward Jones

Submitted photo

headquarters, as well as 15 minutes from Lambert International Airport.

Midas Hospitality, a premier hotel management group, will manage the hotel built by sister company MC Hotel Construction, a general contractor specializing in new hotel construction and renovations.

“This dual-branded hotel – one of the Marriott Hotels & Resorts’ finest – truly complements the growing Maryland Heights’ area,” said Rob Willard, President and Principal. “We look forward to being a part of this community, as well as catering to both extended stay and transient customers.”

More than 2,060 people donated health equipment to St. Louis HELP in 2017 www.travelsunrise.com

www.florissantmo.com

The St. Louis Health Equipment Lending Program (St. Louis HELP) is starting off 2018 with a heavy load since more than 2,060 people Submitted photo donated a total of 11,279 home St. Louis HELP volunteers help with donated home medical equipment. medical items to the nonprofit organization in 2017. truly blessed,” Cannon-Singer said.

The charitable group cleans and revitalizes No matter what home health item people may new and used home medical equipment for free need, St. Louis HELP probably has it. The group loans to children, adults and seniors suffering loans manual and power wheelchairs, scooters, from accidents, illness or disability, and has canes, crutches, walkers, shower chairs, grab begun the benevolent process to loan thousands bars, elevated toilet seats, portable commodes, of home health devices to people in 2018. lift chairs, seating cushions, back supports, “We are extremely lucky that in addition folding ramps, stair lifts and almost any other to our skilled staff we are largely assisted by type of medical device. Child-sized and supervolunteers who work more than 2,300 hours sized items are often available. each year at our warehouse – without them we “We assist hundreds of people every month,” couldn’t survive.”

Cannon-Singer said. “Calls to our warehouse All equipment donations to St. Louis HELP are for equipment loans and donor inquiries are tax deductible. “We collect about 11,000 items increasing – we handled 18, 319 incoming calls of donated home health equipment annually,” in 2017 compared to 16,867 calls in 2016.

Cannon-Singer said. “We revitalize it for loans As a small, independent nonprofit group, or recycle unusable devices. If any equipment is St. Louis HELP relies on financial donations not good enough for your grandmother to use, and grants from caring individuals, and from we won’t loan it out,” she said. businesses and community organizations, to “In 2017 we diverted more than 170 tons of support its benevolent mission. equipment from landfills – including home Every dollar donated to St. Louis HELP turns health devices that were loaned, items sent to into $10.67 of benefit for people of all ages in needy organizations in other countries, and greater St. Louis who rely on our free loans of broken parts that we recycled.” home medical equipment.

“We are fortunate that our volunteers are To support St. Louis HELP with a taxfrom every walk of life – from students to deductible financial donation, please send your working people and executives, retirees and check to St. Louis HELP, 1640 Andrew Drive, more. Everyone seems to have a special skill St. Louis, MO 63122. If you need free loans of or knowledge that they offer. St. Louis HELP is home health equipment, call 314-567-4700.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • January 24, 2018

Around Town

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Vantage celebrates 60th anniversary Vantage Credit Union recently celebrated 60 years of serving the financial needs of members in the St. Louis area. To commemorate the occasion, Vantage celebrated over a two-week period by hosting in-branch events, collecting memories from members and presenting members with giveaway opportunities, including a drawing for one $600 grand prize winner.

All Vantage members were offered giveaways at all branch locations and an opportunity to enter a drawing for additional cash prizes. From nearly 1,300 entries, Vantage congratulates Patricia Geller-Boudria on being randomly selected as the grand prize winner of $600.

Winners of the $60 cash prizes included: Billie Coon,

John Weaver, Steve Schmidlap, Eric Newman, Kathleen Rogers and Shawn Uetrecht.

“I couldn’t believe it when I received the news that I had been chosen as the grand prize winner in the 60th anniversary celebration drawing,” said Geller-Boudria.

“We’ve been long-standing members of Vantage and not only have we been pleased with the service we’ve received, but also the credit union’s commitment to the communities they serve. In this season of giving, my husband and I are fortunate enough to be able to give this money back to those in need this time of year.”

Founded in 1957 with only 17 members and $500, Vantage now serves a diverse membership of nearly

100,000 and offers a full range of financial services.

Vantage members have played a crucial role in achieving 60 years of service to the St. Louis community.

“We have proudly served the St. Louis community for over 60 years, and we have our members to thank,” said Eric Acree, President & CEO of Vantage Credit Union.

“To commemorate the occasion, we hosted celebrations and giveaways to show our appreciation.”

Vantage Credit Union is a leading, full-service financial institution with over $820 million in assets and nearly 100,000 member-owners. The credit union’s 13 locations serve the City of St. Louis and 19 counties in eastern Missouri and St. Clair County in Illinois.

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January 24, 2018 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Active Community Assistance Five helpful ways to lend a hand Social responsibility comes in all shapes and sizes, but ultimately it comes down to one common purpose: making the world a better place. From volunteering at local shelters and community centers to feeding those in need at your local food bank, there are countless ways to give back within your community.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, only 25 percent of people in the U.S. volunteered in 2015. However, studies on health and volunteering show that people who volunteer report feeling emotionally, mentally and physically better. Multiple studies show that volunteering has been linked to lower stress levels, lower levels of depression and longevity.

If that’s not incentive enough, lending support to organizations in your community can often bring immediate and tangible results that give you a connection and sense of community. There are some programs that even enable people to make a difference by matching them with volunteer or funding opportunities. One example is the America’s Farmers Grow Communities program, sponsored by the Monsanto Fund.

“It’s exciting to see communities strengthened by their residents,” said Angela Allen, program manager for the America’s Farmers Grow Communities program, which focuses on supporting local nonprofits in rural communities with the help of local farmers. “The good news is there are several simple and easy ways people can get involved in their communities and make a difference.”

Here are five ways that you can lend a hand: Volunteering. Nonprofit organizations rely on the support of loyal donors and volunteers to deliver on their missions to improve the communities they serve. Time and talent are among the most valuable gifts you can give a deserving cause.

One of the greatest benefits of volunteering is the chance to put your energy and abilities to use for a cause you care about, whether it’s feeding the hungry, rescuing animals or some other cause that is close to your heart. Volunteering provides a feelgood way to pursue your personal interests.

Giving blood. According to the American Red Cross, every 2 seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood. There is an ongoing need to replenish a communities’ blood supplies, whether for medical uses or in the aftermath of a tragedy. Giving blood is fast, relatively painless and can save lives.

Donating. Money doesn’t make the world go ’round, or so the saying goes. However, it can make a difference when it comes to bettering the community. Nonprofit and community organizations rely on monetary contributions not only to fulfill their existing program needs, but also to expand those services to impact more people. Rather than a single, one-time gift, consider setting up an ongoing donation so your impact continues over time. For small or rural nonprofits in particular, a little bit goes a long way. Another touching way to donate funds: give in honor of a loved one, either as a gift for a special occasion or in memoriam.

Rather than giving your parents a gift for Mother’s Day or Father’s Day, think about a small donation to their favorite charity.

www.delmargardens.com

Applying for funding opportunities. Another way to help your community thrive is by exploring avenues to create new funding opportunities for

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

nonprofits. For example, the America’s Farmers Grow Communities program provides farmers an opportunity to help a nonprofit of their choice. Eligible farmers can enroll in the program until Nov. 1 at GrowCommunities.com for a chance to direct a $2,500 donation to a local eligible nonprofit organization. Since 2010, the program has given more than $26 million to nonprofits, including food banks, emergency response organizations, youth agriculture programs and more.

Paying it forward. Not every step you take in support of your community has to be a large one.

In fact, the ripple effect of a series of smaller deeds can have a truly momentous impact. You can set the feel-good wheels in motion in your own community by simply thinking about a time when someone generously gave their own resources to benefit you and paying forward that kindness with a matching endeavor. You might let a frenzied mom go ahead of you in line at the grocery store or pay for a meal for the elderly couple behind you at the drive-thru. Small gestures spread a feelgood spirit that can encourage others to do their part to make the community a better place, as well.

These are just a few ways that you can give back.

Get out and meet with your friends and neighbors in your community to discover how you can best use your time and talents to help the greater good.

How Much Should I Give?

Many community organizations find that donors struggle with the question of how much they should contribute. Donors want to give enough to make an impact, but may fear what they can afford is too small an amount to be meaningful.

Small nonprofits will tell you that no donation is too small. If you’re uncertain, though, don’t hesitate to ask. Most organizations can offer guidance at every giving level so you can feel confident your gift will truly make a difference.

Be a Star Volunteer Volunteers are the driving force for many community causes. Get your start as a volunteer with these tips: 1. Identify a cause or organization that strikes a personal chord. Investing personally helps ensure you genuinely enjoy the time and means you’re more likely to give your best effort.

2. Explore what you can give. It may be basic labor like sorting donated items, making calls or stuffing envelopes, but there could also be room to lend your own special skills or talents, such as bookkeeping or artistry.

3. Approach your volunteer role as you would a paying job. Meet with leaders beforehand to gain a clear understanding of mutual objectives, organize a work schedule and deliver on your commitments.

4. Invite friends or family to join you to make giving back to your community an experience you can share together.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • January 24, 2018

Medicare takes aim at medical identity theft

By Seema Verna, CMS Administrator Criminals are increasingly targeting people age 65 or older for personal identity theft.

In 2014 alone, there were 2.6 million such incidents among seniors, according to the Department of Justice.

A growing offshoot of identity theft is healthcare fraud, which can result when someone unlawfully uses another person’s Medicare number. Medical identity theft can lead to inaccuracies in medical records, which in turn can result in delayed care, denied services and costly false claims.

That’s why Medicare works with the Department of Justice, taking aim squarely at would-be thieves.

In the largest law enforcement action against criminals fraudulently targeting the Medicare, Medicaid and Tricare programs, 412 people around the country, including 115 doctors, nurses and other licensed medical professionals, were charged in 2017 with bilking U.S. taxpayers out of $1.3 billion.

The next big fraud-fighting push is well underway — and its focus is protecting the personal information of senior citizens by removing their Social Security numbers from Medicare cards.

People with Medicare don’t need to take any action to get a new Medicare card. Beginning in April, 2018, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) will mail out newly designed Medicare cards to the 58 million Americans with Medicare. The cards will have a new number that will be unique for each card recipient. This will help protect personal identity and prevent fraud because identity thieves can’t bill Medicare without a valid Medicare number. To help with a seamless transition to the new cards, providers will be able to use secure look up tools that will support quick access to the new card numbers when needed.

Healthcare fraud drives up costs for everyone, but healthcare consumers can be an effective first line of defense against fraud.

Follow these tips to help protect yourself:

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• Check your Medicare statements to make sure the charges are accurate.

DON’T • Don’t share your Medicare number or other personal information with anyone who contacts you by telephone, email or approaches you in person, unless you’ve given them permission in advance. Medicare will never contact you uninvited and request your Medicare number or other personal information.

• Don’t let anyone borrow or pay to use your Medicare number.

• Don’t allow anyone, except your doctor or other Medicare providers, to review your medical records or recommend services.

• Don’t let anyone persuade you to see a doctor for care or services you don’t need.

• Don’t accept medical supplies from a door-todoor salesman.

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Learn more about how you can fight Medicare fraud at Medicare.gov/fraud, or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). You can also visit a local SHIP counselor, who can provide free, one-on-one, non-biased Medicare assistance.

With a common sense approach to protecting health information, senior citizens can be effective partners in fighting Medicare fraud.

DO • Treat your Medicare number like a credit card.

• When the new card comes in the mail next year, destroy your old card and make sure you bring your new one to your doctors’ appointments.

• Be suspicious of anyone offering early bird discounts, limited time offers or encouraging you to act now for the best deal. That’s an indicator of potential fraud because Medicare plans are forbidden from offering incentives.

www.voycestl.org

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

• Be skeptical of free gifts, free medical services, discount packages or any offer that sounds too good to be true.

• Only give your Medicare number to doctors, insurers acting on your behalf or trusted people in the community who work with Medicare, like your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP).

• Report suspected instances of fraud.

www.seniorlifestyle.com

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School

January 24, 2018 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Hazelwood School District hosts community engagement workshops on redistricting As the Hazelwood School District begins to lay the foundation for a possible redistricting project, first, they would like to engage students, parents, staff, and members of the community. To give a sense of timing on the redistricting project: 2017-2018 school year is for planning and engagement; 2018-2019 decisions made on boundary changes, and 2019-2020 students will transition to new schools as needed.

The district will host a series of community engagement workshops in 2018 to share and receive feedback from district residents. Community engagement workshops will take place on the following dates: • Feb. 5, 6 – 8 p.m. at Hazelwood West High School at #1 Wildcat Lane in Hazelwood.

• Feb. 7, 6 – 8 p.m. at Hazelwood East High School at 11300 Dunn Road in St. Louis County.

Due to limited space, individuals should attend one workshop, which will allow space for more community members to participate. Engagement workshops are open to the entire community, no need to RSVP. If you have questions, please contact Kimberly McKenzie, director of communications, at 314-953-5005. visit

Hazelwood teachers to perform at Powell Hall Three Hazelwood School District teachers were selected to rehearse and perform with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra (SLSO) under the direction of Resident Conductor, Gemma New. The teachers include Kyla Herbert, Hazelwood West Middle School orchestra teacher; Kimberly Jackson, Hazelwood Central High School orchestra teacher; and Thomas Schwartz, Russell Elementary School orchestra teacher.

Herbert, Jackson, and Schwartz were selected for this professional development opportunity as part of the Extra Credit on Stage Program at Powell.

The Extra Credit on Stage program allows Herbert, Jackson and Schwartz and other selected music educators to play side-by-side with

symphony musicians during a special concert in February.

The St. Louis Symphony started the Extra Credit program to honor and celebrate the men and women who teach music in schools across the area. Applicants needed to provide information about their musical background and also explain their music philosophy.

“The benefits of music education in our schools are numerous and well documented,” said Jackson. “Extra Credit on Stage at Powell provides an opportunity to celebrate the educators who inspire their students every day in music classes.

Herbert, Jackson, and Schwartz will perform on Feb. 2 at Powell Hall. The concert is free and open to the public.

Hazelwood School District announces 2018 high school graduation commencements

– TWITTER.COM/MYCNEWS

Photo courtesy Hazelwood School District

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The Hazelwood School District High School commencements will take place on May 19. Ceremonies will take place at the University of Missouri-St. Louis in the Mark Twain Building, at the following times: • Hazelwood West High School - 10:00 a.m.

• Hazelwood Central High School - 2:30 p.m.

• Hazelwood East High School - 7:00 p.m.

www.ExploreCatholic Schools.org

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • January 24, 2018

Recipe:

Food

MAKE GAME DAY A WIN

I

t’s game day, which means your party needs food and needs it fast. Use recipes that can pump up the crowd this season and make every game a win.

These quick recipes for an Olive Bar Flatbread and a Mediterranean Nacho Bar can leave the fans in your home screaming for more.

Your fans will almost assuredly be dipping, diving and running for these simple snacks

created with fresh ingredients like Sabra Hummus, which is available in more than a dozen flavors in the deli section of your grocery store. Spread it on fluffy flatbread with your favorite veggies to create a snack that fans can go crazy over, or set it out buffet-style for everyone to munch on at halftime.

Find more game day recipes at sabra.com.

Mediterranean Nacho Bar

“Community News hits all areas for all ages.”

-Reader ’s comment, 2016

Ingredients: Hummus Diced tomatoes Chopped green onions Chopped zucchini (1/4-inch chunks) Chopped Greek olives Chopped pepperoncinis

Shredded lettuce Crumbled feta cheese Grilled chicken Pita chips Directions: Assemble hummus, tomatoes, green

onions, zucchini, olives, pepperoncinis, lettuce, cheese and chicken in buffet format.

Serve with pita chips.

Olive Bar Flatbread Prep time: 15 minutes | Servings: 2

Ingredients: 3 tablespoons roasted red pepper hummus 1 flatbread 1/2 cup desired vegetables, chopped (olives, roasted peppers, peppadew or artichokes) 3 miniature mozzarella balls, sliced 2 cups arugula

2 t ablespoons lemon juice 1 tablespoon olive oil ½ teaspoon salt 1 t easpoon pepper

Place hummus on flatbread. Top with desired vegetables and mozzarella.

Directions: Heat oven to 400 F.

Toss arugula with lemon juice, olive oil, salt and pepper. Place on flatbread and serve.

Bake on lower rack 10-12 minutes, or until crispy and browned.

Why do you read the Community News?

Pick up your copy at a newsstand today or check us out online, www.mycnews.com

9

10

Learn & Play

January 24, 2018 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Crossword Puzzle Theme: Super Bowl

Yeggs

John 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.

Moore On Life

ACROSS 1. Got ready for a close up 6. Cookbook abbr.

10. *Super Bowl number ____ 13. Flow-controlling device 14. Like pulling teeth 15. *Tight one?

16. Do like ivy 17. Half human, half cobra in Hinduism 18. Ring like a bell 19. Flying north in fall, e.g.

21. High school breakout 22. Distress signal 23. Choice word 25. One who increases bid 29. One of “12 Angry Men” 31. Kick out 32. Extinct flightless birds 34. Tony on a cereal box 38. Of short duration 40. *Extra point 41. Blood vessel 42. Drawing support 43. Life saver 45. ____ ____ ____, precisely 46. Minimal in magnitude 48. Mortar and ____ 50. “____, ____!” said Piglet 53. Winter blues, acr.

54. Getting warm 55. *Only undefeated NFL team 60. Marchers in a kids’ song 61. Albany-Buffalo canal 62. Royal topper 65. *”The ____ Bowl” in 1967 66. Actress Campbell 67. Happen 68. Communist color 69. Three-____ sloth 70. Button on electrical outlet

DOWN 1. Pipe material 2. Crew propeller 3. Multitude 4. Never without “n” 5. Remove from a throne 6. Grabbing tool 7. Fine, in Scotland 8. It’s a long story 9. *One of 11 on field 10. River-dwelling phlebotomist 11. Absurd 12. Lazybones 18. *Team with most Super Bowl appearances 20. “Cheers” regular 24. Itty-bitty bit 25. Sonia Sotomayor’s garb 26. Heavenly glow 27. a.k.a. The Islamic State 28. *Team with most Super Bowl wins 29. *Justin’s “Wardrobe Malfunction” partner 30. Drug abuser 33. Sounds of amazement 35. Little cave 36. Et alibi 37. Birth ____ or mortality ____ 39. Pestilence pest 44. Moonfish 47. Impassioned 49. Author’s co-worker 50. Broadcast in progress 51. From this time 52. Old hat 53. r in d = rt 56. Sandwich cookie 57. *Like Super Bowl broadcast 58. Cote d’Azur locale 59. Pouches 63. Poe’s Morgue 64. *Former Ravens owner or HOFer Donovan See answers on page 13

By Cindy Moore

Highfalutin gluten

News flash! A gluten-free diet can actually be harmful. And after all these years of going out of the way to avoid gluten much like kale at the allyou-can-eat buffet?!

This had me extremely concerned when I heard the news since like the majority of the population I have come to fear the dreaded glutens. And like the majority of the population, the first thing that ran through my mind was, “What the heck’s a gluten anyway?”

Then like the majority of the population, the next thing I did was call on the Google gods.

I punched it in on my phone and brought up “images.” I had to see what I might not be eating that might be causing harm to my body by not eating it without knowing I wasn’t eating it.

Gasp! That little circle thingy on the top of my phone kept going round and round like it was thinking and searching and couldn’t come up with anything.

Desperate times call for desperate actions. I deferred to Siri.

“Siri, what is gluten?” I wailed.

She answered. “Alright, here’s what I got. Gluttons are people who eat lots of food until they explode. Gluttons are ba-a-ad people!”

“Show me a picture.”

Up came a picture of fatty-boy Kim Jong Un in a tiny bathing suit.

“No, Siri! Not glutton…glo-o-oten.”

“Okay! Guten. German for good, easily, fine.

As in, Guten Tag – good day!”

Arrrgh! “Siri, slo-owly now. What. Is. GLUTEN?” “Siri cannot answer that, but if you have stu-

pidly not been eating them you are in big trouble.

Siri is shutting down now. Bye, bye.”

“Hmm,” I thought. “I need to ask people who know everything. Aha! Teenagers!”

I borrowed some from the Pilkington’s next door.

Desiree twirling her hair: “Like it’s a kind of leader of Russia. He’s a bad dude that Vladimir Gluten.”

Her brother, Dax with the spiky faux hawk: “No sis, you’re wrong. A gluten is a type of couch. Remember when I slept on our gluten for a year in the basement until Dad made me go find a job?”

“I think you mean, futon,” I corrected.

“Whatever.”

So we’ve already been told that flossing is not all that it’s cracked up to be and that chocolate is actually healthy for us. What are we to disbelieve next; a text message that an incoming nuclear bomb is on its way?!

Nah…that’ll never happen.

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 24, 2018

Sports you see with Gary B...

Lindenwood women’s gymnastics starts season on high note The Lindenwood University gymnastics team won its home opener recently on Friday night at Hyland Arena. The Lady Lions scored a 194.500 and came out ahead of the tri-meet over Alaska Anchorage and Centenary.

Lindenwood had their second-highest point total of the season, and recorded their highest score of the year on the beam with a 48.725. They scored over 48 in all four events, including a 48.425 on the vault, a 48.625 on the bars, and a 48.725 on the floor. Alaska Anchorage was second at the event with a 188.300, and Centenary finished with a 184.125.

The Lady Lions were led by Kierstin Sokolowski and Ryan Henry. Sokolowski had two 9.825 scores on the vault and beam, and scored a 9.750 on the bars. She finished first overall on the vault and beam, and tied for third on the bars. Henry recorded a pair of 9.800 scores on the bars and beam, and had a 9.750 on the floor. She was first overall on the bars, and second in the other two events.

The final individual champion for the Lady Lions was Breanna Franklin who won the floor competition with a 9.800 mark. Other gymnasts to place included Kyndall Baze, who finished second on the floor (9.750) and third on the vault (9.700) in her first collegiate home event. Jordan Boogerd was second on the vault (9.750),Andavea Alexander was second on the bars (9.775), Samantha Borges was third on the bars (9.750), and Emily Milliet was third on the beam (9.775).

For more information go to www.LindenwoodLions.com * Great start Rascals add several to roster On Jan. 5, the River City Rascals signed right handed pitcher Lucas Williams. Williams is 6’3”, 180 lb, right handed pitcher from Grain Valley, Missouri. Williams was a stand-out reliever for the University of Central Missouri, helping the team make it to the 2016 Division II College World Series. Soon after he was drafted in the 40th round of the 2016 MLB Amateur Baseball Draft by the Houston Astros. Williams pitched for the Class A Quad City River Bandits in 2017, going 1-1 with a 2.75 ERA over 55 innings. Williams was on the

mound to convert the final out for the Bandits as they captured the 2017 Midwest League Title over the Fort Wayne Tincaps. This is Lucas’ first year pitching for the Rascals.

Four days later the team signed two more right handed pitchers Scott Grist and Ethan Westphal.

Grist is a 6’4”, 180 lb. right handed pitcher out of Sugarland, Texas. Grist attended Texas State University where he started 27 games and compiled 179 innings over his career. The Milwaukee Brewers drafted Grist in the 38th round of the 2015 MLB Amateur Draft. Grist pitched three years in the Brewers Organization making it to High A+ Ball for the Carolina Mudcats in 2017. Overall Grist totaled three minor league seasons to a 9-4 record with a 3.66 ERA. This is Scott’s first year in the Frontier League pitching for the River City Rascals.

Westphal is a 5’10”, 170 lb. right handed pitcher from Winterset, Iowa. Ethan attended Martensdale St. Marys High School where he went 48-1.

During this time he was a three-time All-State honoree, two-time Super Team All-State honoree, as well as earning three all-conference honors and five letters during his HS career. He was also selected to the Iowa Senior All-star Game. In 2016, Westphal was signed as an undrafted free agent for University of Central Missouri by the Colorado Rockies. While at UCM he finished the season with a 2.6 ERA going 11-4 through the 2016 season. In 2017 he was assigned to Boise (A-). This is Westphal’s first season pitching for the Rascals. * Opening day will be here before you know

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

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 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.

www.byerlyrv.com

www.westcommunitycy.org

www.cedarhurstliving.com

12

What’s Happening

January 24, 2018 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

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

EVENTS 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. 28: Open house and book fair

Sacred Heart Kindergarten will hold an open house from 12 to 3 p.m. Present and prospective students and their parents are invited to visit during this time to meet the teachers and learn about the program at Sacred Heart.

Samples of the students’ work will be on display. Those attending will have an opportunity to purchase books from the Scholastic Book Fair and possibly win an attendance prize. The fair will be held in the Art Room. Registration for Sacred Heart kindergarten, prekindergarten and the threeyear-old program will begin on Jan. 28. For additional information call 314-837-6939 and leave a message or you may call Mrs. Gladbach at 314409-9478.

Jan. 28 - Feb. 1: Used book sale

JCC Used Book Sale takes place at the Jewish Community Center Staenberg Family Complex – Arts & Education Building at #2 Millstone Campus Dr. in Creve Coeur. Preview Day is from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Jan. 28. First day cost is only $10 at the door. Jan. 2931 hours are 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. On Feb. 1, from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. fill a bag for $5. Thousands of titles include mystery and intrigue, novels, biographies, politics, religion, sports, cookbooks, history, animals, art, science, science

fiction, business, women’s issues, foreign languages, gardening, poetry, psychology, self-help, humor…the list goes on. The opening day $10 fee helps underwrite expenses for the sale.

Books are priced from 50 cents to $3.

Special books—collectibles, art books, antique books—are priced as marked.

Line ticket sales will begin at 9 a.m.

Jan. 28. Doors open at 10 a.m. Children 16 and under are free. There is no cost to shop the remaining days of the book sale. For more information, contact Zelda Sparks at 314-442-3169 or visit https://jccstl.com/programs/ used-book-sale/.

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. 3: 2018 Christian Hospital Heat Fair

2018 Christian Hospital Heart Fair, “Stress and Your Heart Health” takes place at Christian Hospital Detrick Building – Atrium from 8:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Registration closes at 11 a.m.

Space is limited and registration is requested, so call 314-747-WELL (9355) and register today. Learn ways to reduce and manage stress as well as learn about one of Christian Hospital’s most advanced procedures — transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Cardiovascular interventionalist Deepak Koul, MD, will talk about this minimally invasive procedure available at only a handful of hospitals nationwide. Joanie Coleman, physical therapist, will demonstrate some light stress-reducing exercises. Then get ready to relieve some stress with laughter as The Healthy Humorist, Dr. Brad Nieder, takes the stage. Make plans to attend this free heart fair that includes free screenings for cholesterol, glucose and blood pressure, along with informational displays, ask the experts, stress and heart disease infor-

mation, refreshments and much more.

The heart fair is proudly sponsored by the Christian Hospital Foundation.

Feb. 8: Open house

An open house takes place at North County Christian School at 845 Dunn Road in Florissant at 7 p.m. Visit the open house for an opportunity to see the school, review curriculum and meet staff, teachers and parents. For more information call 314-972-6227.

Feb. 8: Food packing event

Operation Food Search, a nonprofit hunger relief organization, will host its “Share the Love” Rap ‘N Pack from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at OFS’ headquarters located at 1644 Lotsie Blvd. The cost is $10 in advance and $12 at the door.

Participants ages 21 years of age and older will help pack food for food insecure children and their families. Volunteers will enjoy upbeat music, appetizers and adult beverages. They will learn more about the nonprofit organization that feeds more than 200,000 individuals on a monthly basis – onethird of which are children – through a network of 330 community partners in 31 Missouri and Illinois counties.

To sign up for the Rap ‘N Pack, visit http://www.OperationFoodSearch. org or call 314-726-5355.

Feb. 9: Valentine dinner/dance

Fanfare Band will entertain at the Florissant Valentine Dinner/Dance from 5 – 9 p.m. at the James J. Eagan Center at #1 James Eagan Drive in Florissant. Cost is $12 residents and $150 non-residents. Price includes admission, dinner and light snacks.

Watch the performance or dance the night away! Everyone is welcome – residents and non-residents. Dinner of Passion Chicken, au gratin potatoes, vegetable Normandy, salad, rolls/ butter and cherry pie will be served at 5:30 p.m. Light snacks will be on the tables and beer, wine and soda will be available for purchase. Tickets are sold in the Senior Office in Florissant City Hall at 955 St. Francois. There are no ticket sales at the door. Please call the Senior Office at 314-839-7605 for more information.

Feb. 14: Ash Wednesday service

The season of Lent begins with Ash Wednesday. Calvary United Church of Christ at 2501 Hartland Ave. invites the community at 11 a.m. for its Ash Wednesday Service. The service will include the imposition of ashes and communion. All are welcome to participate. Questions call 314429-7464.

Feb. 17: Chili cook-off and desert competition

St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, at 315 Graham Road in Florissant, is hosting their Fourth Annual Chili Cook-off and Dessert Competition.

Doors open at 4 p.m.; judging begins at 4:30 p.m. You must deliver your entry by 4:30 p.m. for it to be judged. It is free to enter your chili or dessert and free to eat. Local celebrity judges will award first-place winners: $250 prize for best chili, $100 for best dessert and $50 in prizes for best kids dessert.

Feb. 17: Bunco tournament

Soroptimist International of Greater St. Louis is pleased to announce its annual Bunco Tournament at Florissant’s JFK Center at 315 Howdershell.

The price per player is $25. Players are welcome to bring their own food and beverages. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and bunco starts at 7 p.m. There will be a 50/50 raffle and cash prizes for the winners. Proceeds from the Bunco Tournament benefit local women and children’s charities. Past recipients include Helping Hand Me Downs, Girls in the Know, ALIVE (Alternatives to Living in Violent Environments), Dewight E. Patton Jr. Foundation, and Kathy J. Weinman Shelter for Victims

of Domestic Violence. Visit www. sorpoptimiststlouis.com for more information regarding registration and sponsorship. Feel free to email questions to info@soroptimiststlouis.com.

Feb. 17: Monthly writing workshop

Writing workshop at Jamestown Bluff branch of St. Louis County Library at 4153 N. Highway 67 in Florissant from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Bring work to read and share with group. Free event sponsored by Write Sistahs Literary Group.

Email writesistahs@yahoo.com or call 314-210-4774 for more info.

Feb. 17: BB gun shoot

The Florissant Eagles #3638 will be holding an indoor BB gun shoot. All ages welcome and open to the public. Must use house guns. Located at 15245 New Halls Ferry Rd.

Feb. 21: Heart screening

Free healthy heart screening from 10 - 11:30 a.m. at Crystal Creek Rehab Ctr. at 250 S. New Florissant Rd. in Florissant.

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.

March 17: Monthly writing workshop

Writing workshop at Jamestown Bluff branch of St. Louis County Library at 4153 N. Highway 67 in Florissant from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Bring work to read and share with group. Free event sponsored by Write Sistahs Literary Group.

Email writesistahs@yahoo.com or call 314-210-4774 for more info.

March 31: Suits for soldiers

500 Suits For 500 Soldiers will take place at Greg Mans Farmers Agency at 9335 Gravois Road, Suite C in St. Louis. Since over one million military personnel will be making the transition to the civilian workforce in the next couple of years, Sons of American Legion Post 397 and H.E.R.O.E.S Care have 500 suits, shirts and ties to donate to St Louis veterans and active military to help their transition easier.

All veterans and active military can pick up a complimentary suit between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. They will also have free haircuts onsite, donated by Clipper- Mobile Salon and Farmers Insurance. First come, first serve between 9:30 a.m. -1:30 p.m. Veterans Affairs representatives will be onsite to answer questions. Refreshments will be served. For more information contact 314-638-8890.

April 28: Poetry and open mic

Poets, storytellers, dancers, singers invited for “Northern Lights,” a community arts program celebrating National Poetry Month and all arts in North St. Louis County. This event will be On Facebook live. Hosted

by Write Sistahs Literary Group at Jamestown Bluff branch of St. Louis County Library at 4153 N. Highway 67 in Florissant from 1-3 p.m. Email, call or text to sign up at writesistahs@ yahoo.com or 314-210-4774.

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 314615-4516.

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 ww.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.

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.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • January 24, 2018

Tuesdays: TOPS (Take off pounds sensibly)

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.

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

Every Wednesday: Bingo Morning at Florissant Elks Lodge #2316

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.

Bridgeton Trails Library Branch Programs:

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.

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.

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: Blood pressure checks

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

Every 3rd Friday of the month: Bingo

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

Saturdays: Grief support group

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

CHURCH 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 yearround 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.

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

What’s Happening

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: SUDOKU answers from page 11

13

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.

CROSSWORD answers from page 10

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January 24, 2018 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

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January 24, 2018 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Sally Hawkins goes for Oscar gold in “The Shape of Water”

G

M O V I E

By Steve Bryan

uillermo del Toro, one of Hollywood’s most engaging storytellers, outdoes himself with “The Shape of Water.”

Co-written with Vanessa Taylor, this Cold War love story is absolutely charming and stunning with the exquisite Sally Hawkins in the female lead. The actress has a face that draws the viewer’s attention like a magnet and refuses to let go.

Hawkins plays Elisa Esposito, a young woman who lives above a movie theater and works third shift at a government research center. Unable to speak, Elisa communicates with friends and co-workers through sign language. Her life is fairly regimented, performing the same tasks at precisely the same time each day. Even the moments she allows herself to feel real pleasure almost seem routine.

One day, a new government asset is brought to the facility: a humanoid creature that can breathe underwater and also survive on land.

Richard Strickland (Michael Shannon), who found the amphibian man in South America, tortures and torments him. Elisa, on the other hand, reaches out with sign language, compassion and kindness. The two of them bond over hard-boiled eggs.

Sally Hawkins has a beautiful, expressive face that speaks volumes with a single expression or glance. She turns in a highly nuanced performance as Elisa Esposito, who was found by the river when she was little (the Esposito surname was sometimes given to orphaned children). Her moments with the captive creature are quiet and beautiful.

Always brilliant under layers of makeup, Doug Jones also shines here as the creature who wins Elisa’s affections. Like her, he uses

"The Shape of Water " photo courtesy Fox Searchlight Pictures

sign language to communicate, demonstrating incredible intelligence and love in the process.

Being a fish out of water, so to speak, makes for some darkly comic moments when the creature encounters a neighbor’s pet. Guillermo del Toro filmed Jones in prosthetics for many scenes with Hawkins, enhancing the footage with digital effects.

If Ward Cleaver had a government job and a bad attitude, he would resemble Michael Shannon’s Richard Strickland. In post-World War II America, the government agent has the perfect nuclear family and acquires status symbols, including a Cadillac. He is demeaning to his colleagues and his wife and especially cruel to the amphibian man. He proves to be more of a monster, though, than the creature he guards.

Richard Jenkins and Octavia Spencer provide solid support as Elisa’s friends and confidants.

Jenkins plays an artist name Giles who lost his job and makes do with freelance work.

Spencer’s Zelda Fuller works alongside Elisa at the lab, but her home life is frustrating. It’s

unfortunate that director Guillermo del Toro did not have enough time to explore their backgrounds in more detail.

“The Shape of Water of Water” already earned Golden Globes for its beautiful score and del Toro’s skillful direction. This film has emerged as a real contender and will surely earn more than a few Oscar nominations. It also ranks highly on the list of beautiful cinematic romances.

“The Shape of Water,” rated R for sexual content, graphic nudity, violence and language, currently is playing in theaters.

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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