CN: January 31, 2018

January 31, 2018

Miles of smiles

Around Town Rett Syndrome Foundation to host 11th Strollathon. P.3 Make sure you vote for your favorite businesses in this years ‘Best of North County’ competition. P7

School

Two Bermuda Elementary students win National Great Rivers Museum Writing Contest. P.8

Food

Patients and volunteers participate in a previous Give Kids A Smile event that provides free dental care to children across the St. Louis region.

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The Give Kids A Smile organization hosts semiannual free dental care clinic for up to 600 kids

Hearty meals to bring the family together. P.9

Movie

By Charlotte Beard While many of us take going to the dentist for granted, for some families in our region, it is a luxury they cannot afford. Enter Give Kids A Smile.

“We’ve had situations where parents have lost their jobs,” shared Erica Steen. Steen, the Executive Director for the Give Kids a Smile organization provided scenarios they might encounter with parents experiencing financial difficulties. “[The parents] lost their dental insurance, but maybe they’re looking for a job and they haven’t gotten the kids signed up for Medicaid yet. Or, [there might be] a tough financial situation, where someone calls and pleads their case [because] they might not be able to afford [dental care], even though they have the insurance. They [are aware] that the dental work that needs to be done [for the child] will be above and beyond their financial means.”

The Give Kids A Smile organization is hosting its semiannual free dental care clinic for up to 600 kids on Friday, Feb. 9 and Saturday, Feb. 10 at the St. Louis University (SLU) Center for Advanced Dental Education located on 3320 Rutger Street. The focus for this free event, held in conjunction with

National Children’s Dental Health Month, are toddlers and children up to 14 years old who are Medicaid eligible, qualify for the free school lunch program, or need dental assistance due to other circumstances. The available appointment times and other details will be provided to those who call to register by this Friday, Feb. 2. The registration number is 636-397-6453.

Parents who register their child for this Give Kids A Smile Clinic can expect service from one of 250 local licensed dentists.

The dentists volunteering for this event will provide x-rays, professional cleanings, fluoride treatments, and sealants. For those who need it, other service includes fillings, root canals and oral surgery.

Steen stated of the schedules, “We make the appointments for three hours each to make sure that we can get as much dental care done

in the visit as possible. If there’s something extensive that needs to be done that can’t take place at the clinic, we will do our best to make arrangements to have that child see a dentist outside of the clinic who’s willing to help them.”

Steen shared that the pre-scheduled appointments will be spread over the course of the two days. They can serve 50 to 60 children at one time.

Dr. Fernandez (who didn’t wish to disclose his first name), one of the dentists who has been volunteering since 2003, has provided dental restorative care. He spoke to the process in cases where a child might need to be referred to care outside the clinic.

“When oral surgery is mentioned that’s just another way of saying that teeth need to be See ‘SMILE’ page 2

Serving North & Northwest St. Louis County | FREE Online at mycnews.com | Vol. 97 No. 4 | 636-379-1775

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January 31, 2018 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

‘SMILE’ from cover removed. That can be done in the clinic with local anesthetic.

The referral doesn’t imply that this is too complex or complicated to do in a clinic. [It’s consideration for] the child [not tolerating] this treatment being done with just a local anesthetic.

Sometimes due to anxiety they just won’t allow it…sometimes it’s with the younger kids but [other times] the older kids will not allow anyone to go into their mouths,” he said He explained the referral is to allow the child to receive the treatment with just general anesthesia. Fernandez stated that sometimes there are extreme cases where a child may have a few or more cavities that require the child be subdued to remove the teeth all at once.

Fernandez also described “Smile Factories” – a phrase coined for outside dental offices that the Give Kids A Smile organization has identified as pro bono providers. These providers are limited to kids who attended one of the organization’s free clinics but was not able to receive their care.

“I also receive kids in my office as a ‘Smile Factory’ provider,” he said.

Fernandez cares for children at Pediatric Dentistry of Sunset Hills. He wants parents to know that the clinic can take care of a dental need that may often require emergency room visits.

Preventative care in one of the semiannual clinics can help eliminate unnecessary ER costs and visits that will still require a trip to the dentist.

Also vital to the success of the two-day clinic is the signup opportunities for nondentist volunteers. Volunteering dentists as well as non-dentists are asked to call 636-397-6453 to sign-up.

Steen states, “No specialized training is needed for those lay volunteers, just a willingness to serve as needed, escorting children, reading stories and creating a fun atmosphere.

Individuals, small groups, teams and organizations seeking service opportunities are encouraged to consider volunteering on Feb. 9 and/or 10.”

Clinic workers are needed on either or both clinic days 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Volunteers are also needed to help set up on Thursday, Feb. 8 from 4:30 – 8 p.m. There is also an opportunity to help pack-up on Saturday from 1 – 4 pm. In addition to calling the number above, all volunteers can visit www.gkas.org.

Steen provided details of the appointment day process for parents and children arrival at SLU. “When the children get there, they [will] go through a registration process, just like you would at a normal dentist’s office,” Steen said. “The volunteers will walk [them to]

the area where they learn how to properly brush their teeth, where they have the x-rays done, and into the area [where] they will see the dentist and the hygienist. Once they’re done with their appointments, the volunteers will then escort them to a party room where their parents will be.”

Steen also shared that there will be interactive games for the children.

Submitted photos “We just really want to make and volunteers participate in a previous Give Kids A Smile event that provides free sure it’s a chance for them to Patients dental care to children across the St. Louis region. relax and to know that yes, you went to the dentist, and you members for support.

American Dental Association might have had some dental “Thank goodness we have adopted the program in 2003 and work done, but this is a safe some very supportive dentists is responsible for a nationwide place to be in,” she said. in the area who volunteer their program by the same name that Each child will be sent home time,” expressed Steen, “but has provided care to 5.5 million with a free healthy lunch dental work is expensive. So, children. and smile bag that includes a we need to make sure that “The organization has toothbrush, toothpaste, floss and even though the dentists are evolved over the years,” Steen a book courtesy of the St. Louis providing free care that we cover shared. “Each clinic is run by County Library Foundation. our supplies, our costs for the anywhere from about 400 to When Give Kids A Smile space, all the entertainers and 500 volunteers. The community clinics are not functioning in all the other things that need to really comes out to help make February and October, the happen.” a difference. We have dentists, organization of eight board The organization provided hygienists, dental assistants members and two staff members free dental care for a little over and just regular community hold two fundraising events to 700 children in 2002 when it first members who come out and support its initiatives. One of began its clinics. The Give Kids give their time to make sure that those events is a trivia night in A Smile concept was developed these kids have a healthy smile.”

May and a golf tournament in by Jeffrey Dalin, DDS; B. Ray Fernandez agreed and added, June. The organization is also Storm, DDS; Tom Flavin, DDS; “A lot of good people are doing supported by its investment of Mark Ortinau, DDS and Jan a lot of good things to care for time in pursuing grant funding Storm. It’s been stated that the their community – caring for the and reaching out to community impact was so profound that the dental needs of their children.”

2018 Valley of Flowers applications now available Since its start in 1963, the Valley of Flowers festival has grown to include dozens of events. This year Florissant celebrates the first festival of spring on May 4, 5, and 6. The 2018 theme is “Valley of Flowers Celebrates the Muny's 100th.”

Applications for the 2018 Valley of Flowers parade, craft fair, flea market, pretty baby, car show, food and game booths are now available. Applications maybe picked up from the Valley of Flowers office, downloaded from www.florissantvalleyofflowers.com or via email at office@florissantvalleyofflowers.com or fax by request to 314-837-0033/Fax 314-837-5504. The Valley of Flowers office is located at 601 rue St. Charles St. in Florissant.

Craft fair, pretty baby, flea market and food booths at the James J. Eagan Center are for May 4 and May 5. Crafter space is $75 and $10 to rent table (limited supply available), Vendors table is $100 and includes table, flea market space is $50, and the pretty baby cost is $5. The craft/vendor fair is on the covered Ice Rink Pavilion and the flea market is inside the building. All food booths are grouped together in the food tent on the grounds. The car show will be on St. Francois Street on May 5.

The parade will be held on May 6. Parade applicants do not have to be a Florissant resident or business to participate in the parade and there is no entry fee. Parade units are strongly encouraged to decorate honoring those who serve thinking about first responders, military/veterans, educators, doctors/nurses, volunteers, etc.

Food and game booth at the Knights of Columbus grounds are for

May 4 through May 6 and cost $125 per space.

Sponsorships are also available. Please contact the Valley of Flowers office for more information.

Applications for the 2018 Valley of Flowers Queen Candidates are also now available. They may be picked up at the Valley of Flowers office at 601 rue St. Charles in Florissant. Applications are also available by request to 314-837-0033, via fax 314-837-5504 or email office@florissantvalleyofflowers.com or download from the website at florissantvalleyofflowers.com Candidates must be 16 years of age by April 30, 2018, a junior in high school, and a resident of the city of Florissant. Candidates must be sponsored by a business. However, the business does not have to be located in Florissant. The number of candidates is limited to 25. Candidates will be selected in the order in which the completed application is received by the Valley of Flowers office.

Rules and regulations for queen candidates are included with the application. Completed applications will be accepted until Feb. 23.

There will be a meet and greet for the 2018 candidates on March 11 at the James J. Eagan Center and the judging will take place at the James J. Eagan Center on April 8. A dinner to recognize the candidates, sponsors and families will follow. Candidates are judged on poise and personality. The winner will be announced after the Valley of Flowers Parade on May 6. A scholarship in the amount of $1,000 will be awarded the queen upon completion of her reign along with many other gifts and prizes.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • January 31, 2018

Around Town

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Rett Syndrome Foundation to host 11th Strollathon The International Rett Syndrome Foundation (IRSF), now known as Rettsyndrome.org, will host its 11th annual St. Louis Strollathon on May 5 with registration starting at 9 a.m. and the walk beginning at 10 a.m. The one-mile family-friendly stroll, which will be held at the JCC-St. Louis located at 2 Millstone Campus Dr., includes a visit from Fredbird, entertainment and food. All proceeds will benefit Rett Syndrome research.

Each year’s event has had 500-plus participants, and more than $600,000 total has been raised from the past 10 walks. The Strollathon program, Rettsyndrome. org’s signature fundraising event, has brought families together to fundraise and to strengthen the local Rett community since 2004. Strollathons have raised a grand total of nearly $12 million nationwide for research treatments and a cure in the last 14 years.

St. Louis features a specialty clinic to care for and support children with Rett Syndrome and Rett-related disorders. The clinic is a collaboration between Washington University School of Medicine and St. Louis Children’s Hospital. Patients and their families have the opportunity to meet with several health care providers including neurology, therapy, and nutrition along with other needed specialists. The clinic – which was named one of 14 Rett syndrome clinical research centers of excellence – has a team of specialists with substantial experience in the diagnostic evaluation and treatment of individuals with Rett syndrome. By partnering with families and community healthcare providers, the clinic delivers care that is comprehensive and appropriate for a family’s individual needs.

Rett syndrome is a genetic neurological disorder that occurs almost exclusively in females and becomes apparent after 6-18 months of early normal development. It results in a regression that leads

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to lifelong impairments. Those inflicted with this disorder have multiple dysfunctions: speech is lost, seizures develop and scoliosis occurs, many develop irregular breathing patterns, and more than half of the girls and women lose their ability to walk. Those diagnosed with Rett require maximum assistance with even the most basic daily activities.

The hallmark sign of Rett syndrome is near constant repetitive hand movements while awake.

Donations are appreciated to the Strollathon, which is free and open to the public. For more information, call

Strollathon chair Joyce Opinsky at 314-346-1323, e-mail her at stlstrollathon@gmail.com, or visit the organization’s web site at www.rettsyndrome.org.

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Operation Food Search to host Schnuck Markets’ Tour Event Day

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Operation Food Search (OFS), a nonprofit hunger relief organization, will hold a Cooking Matters at the Store Tour Event Day on March 3 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Schnuck Markets located at 48 N. Florissant Rd. in Ferguson. The 20-minute self-guided interactive grocery store tour shows local families and individuals how to make healthy, affordable shopping choices.

The tour is part of OFS’ celebration of National Nutrition Month, which is a nutrition education and information campaign created annually in March by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. The campaign focuses attention on the importance of making informed food

choices and developing sound eating and physical activity habits.

The event, which is free and open to the public, will offer tours of the supermarket’s produce, bakery, meat and dairy departments.

Participants will observe a live cooking demonstration to help them learn how to prepare and cook nutritious meals at home.

Schnuck Markets will feature various food sampling stations for customers that introduce healthy, family-friendly meal choices. The first 150 participants will receive a $10 grocery gift card upon tour completion.

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January 31, 2018 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

St. Louis County Port Authority closes on purchase of Jamestown Mall property The St. Louis County Port Authority now owns all the property at the former Jamestown Mall site and has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) to redevelop the property. Interested developers are required to include a project description including dimensions, design concepts and features.

During his campaign to become County Executive, Steve Stenger promised to push for redevelopment of the mall property.

“We started working on this my first day in office and it continues to be a top priority,” he said. “There is still much to be done, but it is gratifying to see how far we have come and it is exciting to think about a redeveloped site that will provide employment and economic opportunity for area residents.”

At Stenger’s urging, the St. Louis County Port Authority actively negotiated to secure all of the Jamestown property. The mall, which had multiple owners, closed in 2014. In 2015, Stenger traveled to New York to meet with owners and soon after that meeting the first parcel of property was acquired by the Port Authority.

Over the next two years other parcels were acquired, culminating in the Port Authority buying the remaining land in October, 2017. The sale of those two parcels recently closed, clearing the way for the Port Authority to request redevelopment proposals.

In late November an open house was held to give area residents more information about the site and to solicit input about what they would like to see at the site of the former mall. Several hundred people attended and

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submitted comments.

The comments gathered at the open house and through the Jamestown Mall page on the county website were considered as the Port Authority put together the RFP. This information also will be considered when a developer is chosen for the project.

The RFP is available on the St. Louis Economic Development Partnership website, http://stlpartnership. com and on the Jamestown Mall page of the St. Louis County website, http://stlouisco.com/Jamestown.

Responses to the RFP are due April 20, but those who are interested are urged to submit proposals as quickly as possible. The Port Authority reserves the right to accelerate the deadline if the highest and best proposal is time sensitive.

City of Hazelwood addresses concerns about contract with fire district during council meeting

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Photo courtesy city of Hazelwood At the last city council meeting before his retirement on Jan. 26, Hazelwood Assistant City Manager was presented with a retirement proclamation from the city of Hazelwood for his many years of public service.

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The city of Hazelwood City Council met on Jan.17. The city council welcomed new employees Lisa Powers as Assistant City Manager; the new Aquatics Supervisor Bo Hellems; and Intern Paul Feldman.

The council recognized outgoing Assistant City Manager Bob Franks, who is retiring Jan. 26. Sgt. Pat Schierbecker was also recognized for his 30 years of service with the police department, who is retiring Feb. 1. The city honored Bret Berrigan as the incoming Chair and Christina and Nathan Bennett, owners of Hendel’s, as Business Persons of the Year at the Greater North County Chamber of Commerce. The council approved ordinances for redevelopment of the Phillips 66 station at the corner of Lindbergh and Elm Grove; a bible study college; and a new contract for ambulance billing services.

After a lengthy attempt by the Hazelwood City Council to negotiate in good faith with the Robertson Fire Protection District (RFPD) to amend the contract between both parties or to merge fire services to relieve the city of an unsustainable financial burden, the council voted to terminate its contract with the RFPD. Effective Jan. 1, 2019, the city’s fire department will be providing fire and EMS services to residents living in the area once served by the RFPD. According to Hazelwood Mayor Matthew Robinson, “The city of Hazelwood has a duty to all its citizens and property owners to provide a full range of quality municipal services on a costeffective basis. But this problem with RFPD has created a financial crisis which looms over the people who live and work in Hazelwood because vital city services and the city’s solvency are being put at risk by the excessive and unnecessary fees

which the city is required to pay RFPD every year.”

The Hazelwood City Council intends to follow through with terminating the contract with RFPD. But Robinson gave a legislative report during the city council meeting that outlines ways the city can work with state legislators in developing bills to reinforce their efforts and provide other avenues for fixing a broken system.

Here is the five-pronged approach he proposed as a course of action: 1. Allow voters to vote to pay for the taxes they have approved.

2. Allow municipalities to negotiate a contract with the fire district and keep the tax levy at a regional level.

3. Since the city of Hazelwood pays for 51 percent of the tax revenue to RFPD, which is dramatically more than what other municipalities are paying for their fire and EMS services, the city should have at least three members on the board.

4. Fire districts should provide a more transparent and detailed budget. When the city of Hazelwood asked to see RFPD’s detailed budget after numerous requests and needing to file a Sunshine Law request, the fire district only provided an audit and small budget. The city’s request for detailed expenditures was never responded to. They didn’t show how RFPD spends their money or how much of their bond money has been spent.

5. Creation of a Citizen’s Review Committee to study this issue and report to citizens and State legislators on the impact of the current system and possible solutions. Residents who are interested in serving on this committee can contact the city clerk’s office at 314-513-5020.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • January 31, 2018

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11th Annual Mayors’ Shamrock Ball follows record-breaking year in monies raised The Mayors’ Shamrock Ball is coming off a terrific year in the revenues raised for Valley Industries Sheltered Workshop, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization based in Hazelwood. In 2017, the event netted Valley Industries about $40,843 which breaks the record set two years ago of $37,683. Seventy-three local companies and organizations participated as event sponsors and more than 430 individual tickets were sold.

Event organizers anticipate this year’s 11th Annual Mayors’ Shamrock Ball, scheduled for March 3, from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., to be the biggest and best one yet. Garden Villas North, at 4505 Parker Road, has generously offered its beautiful facility again. In addition, Mayor Norman McCourt of Black Jack, Mayor Tom Schneider of Florissant, Mayor Matthew Robinson of Hazelwood, Mayor James Knowles, III, of Ferguson and Mayor Robert Doerr of Bellefontaine Neighbors will be hosting this event which helps Valley Industries continue to provide meaningful employment for those with developmental disabilities.

“It’s truly a gratifying experience to walk through the production floor and watch Valley Industries’ workers man their stations and do the best of their abilities to keep the assembly line moving until the project is finished,” Hazelwood Mayor Matthew Robinson said. “The Workshop provides these individuals with an opportunity to be gainfully employed and become contributing, tax-paying members of our community.”

Valley Industries first opened its doors for business on March 13, 1967, under the name of Florissant Valley Sheltered Workshop with only 15 employees. Today, the workshop serves almost 200 adults with disabilities in a 60,000 square-foot production facility in Hazelwood.

It specializes in contract packaging, kit building, shrink wrapping, collating, assembly, inspections, and blister packaging. Valley Industries is both FDA-certified and ISO 9001:2008 certified, committed to customer satisfaction through audited quality processes.

Over the past decade, the Mayors’ Shamrock Ball has evolved into the St. Louis region’s premier formal “green tie” affair! With its Irish fare of fun, great food, and lively dance music, it has become the place to be and be seen with influential business leaders and elected officials. Individual tickets for $125 each usually sell fast because no one wants to be left out of going to North County’s biggest social soirée. Guests come dressed up to dance the night away, enjoy delicious food, and win raffle prizes - all for a good cause.

KSDK-TV’s Chief Meteorologist Craig Moeller enjoyed participating in last year’s program so much that he has agreed to be the program emcee for this year’s event.

The Mayors’ Shamrock Ball offers generous sponsorship packages to local businesses, organizations and individuals.

Different sponsorships are available at the following levels: Event Sponsor $5,000; Emerald Sponsor - $2,500; Pot Photo courtesy city of Hazelwood of Gold Sponsor - $1,000; Leprechaun Sponsor - $600; and Shamrock Sponsor Elected mayors representing five North County municipalities will be hosting the 11th Annual - $300. Those interested in one of these Mayors’ Shamrock Ball on March 3, at Garden Villas North from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. (From left) sponsorships can pay by check or by Mayor Norman McCourt of Black Jack stands with Mayor Tom Schneider of Florissant, Mayor Matthew Robinson of Hazelwood, Mayor James Knowles, III, of Ferguson and Mayor Robert Doerr of credit card (MasterCard, Visa, American Bellefontaine Neighbors.

Express and Discover). If using a check, please make it payable to Valley Industries’ Mayors’ has earned the admiration and respect of his co-workers Shamrock Ball. Mail the check to this address: Valley and staff. In his free time, he loves to read books about Industries Sheltered Workshop; 143 B McDonnell nature and animals, camping, fishing, hunting, and Boulevard; Hazelwood, MO, 63042. especially enjoys float trips.

Those who purchase event sponsorships also McNairy, a Florissant resident, is always happy, receive individual tickets. Contact Jim Guyre, Valley smiling, polite and a pleasure to be around. Outside Industries Executive Director, at 314-731-1771 for more of work, McNairy enjoys vacationing with her family, information on sponsorship perks. The public can amusement parks and going to church. purchase individual tickets online for $125 per person.

Go to www.valleyind.net to make the transaction. There is a limit of 400 tickets available. Once they are gone, the event is sold out.

Since the first Mayors’ Shamrock Ball held 11 years ago, The Bob Kuban Band has stepped up to provide the dynamic, highenergy dance music at each of the annual fund-raisers. His professional musical group will once again keep the place hopping and the dance floor full all evening at this year’s event.

Each year, Valley Industries selects a Gentleman Worker of the Year and a Woman Worker of the Year from a pool of employee candidates who were monthly winners in 2017. This year’s honorees are Nick Wood and Barbara McNairy. They will be crowned as the King and Queen of the 11th Annual Mayors’ Shamrock Ball.

Wood, a native of Bellefontaine Neighbors, has been with Valley for about five years and

St. Louis HELP wins national award from Keep America Beautiful organization The St. Louis Health Equipment Lending Program (St. Louis HELP) has won a Keep America Beautiful National Community Improvement Award for recycling used home health equipment by collecting, revitalizing and loaning the equipment for free to anyone who needs it, and for diverting tons of unusable medical equipment from landfills.

The national award for St. Louis HELP was announced at the Keep America Beautiful National Awards Ceremony during Keep America Beautiful’s National Conference in Dallas, Texas, on Jan. 18–19.

St. Louis HELP is one of some 80 organizations recognized at the America the Beautiful National Awards Ceremony for their commitment and passion to help sustain “clean and green communities.”

“These imaginative, inspirational and transformative community leaders help bring to life creative, resourceful and meaningful actions that help make their communities more socially connected, environmentally healthy and economically sound,” said Keep America Beautiful President and CEO Helen Lowman.

In 2017 more than 2,060 people donated a total of 11,279 home medical items to St. Louis HELP.

The charitable group cleans and revitalizes new and used home medical equipment for free loans to children, adults and seniors suffering from accidents, illness or disability.

“We are extremely honored to be recognized by the Keep America Beautiful National Community Improvement Award for our continuing work to achieve our mission,” said Laura Cannon Singer, executive director of St. Louis HELP who founded the nonprofit organization in 2008.

“We collect about 11,000 items of donated home health equipment annually,” Cannon-Singer said.

“We revitalize it for free loans and we recycle unusable devices. In 2017 we diverted more than 170 tons of equipment from landfills — including home health devices that were loaned, items sent to needy organizations in other countries, and broken parts that we recycled.”

The organization operates a 7,000 square foot warehouse in St. Louis County where it cleans, revitalizes and loans home medical equipment and responds to requests from people and families throughout metro St. Louis for free use of the revitalized health equipment.

Call 314-567-4700 to inquire about free loans of available home health equipment. For more information, see the website www.stlhelp.org.

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January 31, 2018 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Old Courthouse celebrates George Washington with historic birthday ball On Feb. 24, the National Park Service honors George Washington and his significance in American history with an authentic birthday celebration. Washington’s Birthday Ball includes live, 19th-century music and a historical dance workshop.

This event is free and open to all ages, and will take place in the Old Courthouse Rotunda at11 North Fourth Street in St. Louis. Historical dress is not required to participate.

“After leading the Continental Army to victory during the Revolutionary War, George Washington was elected president of the convention that wrote the U.S. Constitution – the cornerstone of our nation’s governing

system – and eventually became our nation’s first president,” says Rhonda Schier, Chief of Museum Services and Interpretation at Jefferson National Expansion Memorial. “We’re marking this Founding Father’s birthday with a special party, and invite visitors and park neighbors of all ages to experience how St. Louisans celebrated his birthday in 1858 at the Old Courthouse.”

From 9 - 11 a.m. There will be a dance workshop featuring popular dance steps of 1858 led by instructor Deborah Hyland. From 12 - 4 p.m. will be Washington’s Birthday Ball, with live music by The Independent Silver Band and historical dancing. Cookies and hot cider will be served.

The event is free and open to the public. Visitors are encouraged to drop in as they please.

A list of downtown St. Louis parking locations within walking distance of the Old Courthouse is available at http://getaroundstl.com. Metered street parking is also available around the Old Courthouse. Visitors are encouraged to check www.gatewayarch.com/directions for up-to-date information on directions before their visit.

For more information visit www.nps.gov/jeff or www. gatewayarch.com; or call 877-982-1410. Reservations are not required, but large groups should call 314-655-1614 to alert the Old Courthouse of their attendance.

Vote Best of North County 2018

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www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • January 31, 2018

Business

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Greater North County Chamber honors business leaders of the year during awards luncheon Nathan and Christina Bennett were awarded the Business Leaders of 2018 during the Greater North County Chamber’s Installation and Awards Luncheon held at the Christian Hospital Atrium on Jan. 17.

The Greater North County Chamber has annually given the Business Leader of the Year award to individual/individuals that embody the best qualities of community leadership through the combination of business, civic and community activities. Nathan and Christina were given this prestigious award for not only the hard work they put into making Hendel’s Restaurant a remarkable eatery in North County, but also for their tireless effort in making a positive impact on the North County Community.

“Thank you to everyone for all of your comments and congrats to us on receiving the Business Persons of the Year Award. We are humbled and honored. Nathan and I love being a part of this North County community and are so grateful for all of your support to us at Hendel’s.

We are truly blessed to live, work, and raise a family in this beautiful city. Blessings to all of you for a happy, healthy, and prosperous 2018. There really is ‘No place like home,’” stated the Bennetts.

They are members of Old Town partners, North County Incorporated, and Greater North County Chamber of Commerce. Through Hendel’s they are active sponsors for TEAM Food Pantry, St. Vincent DePaul Society and St. Ferdinand Shrine In 2016 they were voted best family-owned restaurant

in St. Louis by SBA. And have each been honored as one of the 30 leaders in their 30s by North County Inc. The chamber awarded the Cathy Behlmann Volunteer of the Year award to Jon Vogt, with Catering to You. Vogt has been heavily involved in the chamber serving as chairman of the board for two terms, chairing Photo courtesy Kent Miller Photography multiple committees, Pictured (from left) are Kyle Bennett, Nathan Bennett, Christina Bennett and Kaylie Bennett. attending membership luncheons, and business after hours. He has volunteered at almost every event the every ribbon cutting and every event that the chamber chamber has, including cooking at the First Responders hosts.

Barbeque, giving out water during the Florissant Fall The chamber awarded the Ambassador of the Year Festival, helping set up and break down during Nite of award to Tom Gilliland, with Vivial. Once Gilliland Stars. joined the chamber, he became active wherever he could The chamber awarded the Rookie of the Year award to and joined the ambassador committee. He has a deep Derick Wellman, with Amore Pizza. Wellman joined the belief in giving back to the community and shows it chamber in 2015 and immediately started to participate through his commitment in giving of his time. in Leads Group 1. He has made a positive presence throughout the chamber, becoming an ambassador and now, a member of the board of directors. He is at every luncheon,

West Community Credit Union scholarships available West Community Credit Union is accepting applications for their annual scholarship program.

There are four $1,500 scholarships available to graduating high school seniors. Applications are

available at www.westcommunitycu.org and are due March 18. For more information, visit online or stop by a local branch.

2018 Chairman of the Greater North County Chamber is installed Berigan also served for several years as voluntary public relations director for the North Star District of the Boy Scouts of America – Greater St. Louis Area Council. He is an avid gardener, photographer and fitness enthusiast.

Bret and his wife, Julie, have two sons, Blake, 28, and Benton, 25.

The Greater North County Chamber 2018 Board of Directors is listed below: • Bret Berigan, Chair, Christian Hospital • Darla Tinker, Vice Chair, US Bank • Halina Conti, Treasurer, Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. • Kitty Harrison, Secretary, Johnny Londoff Chevrolet • Mike Moehlenkamp, Past-Chair, Gary’s Auto Service • Kim Bakker, SSM Health DePaul Hospital • Courtney Bond, Edward Jones • Dr. Joseph Davis, Ferguson-Florissant School District • Brian Douglas, The Husband Agency – State Farm • Rick Dorsey, Ahlheim & Dorsey • Misty Farr, Walmart • Dr. Adam Howell, Chiropractor • Ricky Hopkins, Sr., A-List Realtors • Sharon Johnson, Central Bank of St. Louis • Tasanya Johnson, The Bridge at Florissant • Derick Wellman, Amore Pizza Submitted photo

Bret Berigan, Public Relations Manager of Christian Hospital, has been named the Chairman of the Greater North County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors for 2018.

Berigan was inducted at the 2018 Installation and Awards Luncheon held the Christian Hospital Atrium on Jan. 17.

Berigan served as the 2017 Chamber’s Vice-Chair of the Board of Directors. He has been involved with the Greater North County Chamber since 1996, and helped form the organization’s first marketing/public relations committee, and has served several terms on the chamber board during the years.

Berigan has been with Christian Hospital since 1996 and has been with the BJC HealthCare since 1990. Prior to that he was a travel writer and editor for five years with the AAA-Auto Club of Missouri. He graduated from Creighton University with a bachelor’s degree in journalism, and has a master’s degree in health service management from Webster University.

“It’s truly an honor and privilege to serve as chair for the Greater North County Chamber.

I have been involved with the chamber since 1996 and will work very hard this year on behalf of our membership to uphold the chamber’s commitment to serve as the ‘Voice of Business’ that tirelessly promotes the economic development and quality of life in North County,” stated Berigan.

www.delmargardens.com

8

School

January 31, 2018 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Hazelwood School District offers free income tax filing night

Two Bermuda Elementary students win National Great Rivers Museum Writing Contest

The Hazelwood School District partnered with the St. Louis Metro Tax Coalition to host a free income tax filing night on Feb. 6 and Feb. 13, from 5 – 8 p.m. at Hazelwood East High School at 11300 Dunn Rd. The tax filing night is free and open to parents/guardians with a Hazelwood School District junior or senior. Hazelwood School District staff and faculty are also welcomed.

This event is by appointment only. To schedule an appointment, please call Sonya Smith at 314-953-5274.

Photo courtesy Ferguson-Florissant School District Zamylah Alexander and Taliyah Williams from Bermuda Elementary were the only students from the Ferguson-Florissant School District to win the “Bonkers for Birds” writing contest.

Fourth-graders Taliyah Williams and Zamylah Alexander from Bermuda Elementary were the only students from the Ferguson-Florissant School District to win the “Bonkers for Birds” writing contest. This year’s annual Masters of the Sky contest presented by the National Great Rivers Museum received over 2,102 student submissions. One winner was selected for

each bird species found in the state of Missouri.

The students will be recognized and presented with their award at a ceremony taking place on Feb. 17 at the National Great Rivers Museum.

Their winning submissions will be on display at the National Great Rivers Museum and also posted in a field journal created by students across Missouri and Illinois.

www.nccsedu.org

Hazelwood Central students making a difference one meal at a time Members of the Hazelwood Central High School, National Honor Society for Musicians (Tri-M), recently volunteered at the Ronald McDonald House at Mercy Hospital in St. Louis. Tri-M members cooked and served dinner for parents and family members of hospital patients. The menu included, spaghetti with meatballs, linguine, garlic bread, salad, brownPhoto courtesy Hazelwood School ies and cake.

Ronald McDonald House is a temporary home away from home where the families of children being treated for serious illnesses or trauma reside.

This event was the second of three Tri-M’s service projects. TriM’s other two events include, volunteering at the Hot Chocolate Run in downtown St. Louis and sorting food at a local food bank.

“I am so proud of our students for the positive impact that they are Photo courtesy Hazelwood School District making in our community,” said Hazelwood Members of the Hazelwood Central High School, National Honor Society for Musicians, recently volunCentral High School teered at the Ronald McDonald House at Mercy Hospital in St. Louis.

Principal Dr. Derrick Mitchell. “Not only are they excelling in the schedules to help others which demonstrates classroom, but they are taking time from their true leadership.”

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • January 31, 2018

Recipe:

Food

9

HEARTY MEALS TO BRING THE FAMILY TOGETHER

G

athering the family around the table with delicious, traditional meals is the ultimate combination for many home chefs like Catherine Lowe, winner of the 17th season of ABC’s “The Bachelor.”

Lowe, who partnered as a celebrity spokesperson with Bertolli to create this Roasted Garlic Marinara Braised Chicken with Linguine recipe, enjoys adding authenticity to the table with recipes that provide homemade taste and layers of flavor.

“I pride myself on my strong Italian roots,” Lowe said. “My dad taught me how to cook at a young age, and growing up, it was an event to make and enjoy dinner with his side of the family.

It’s important for me to remember and celebrate that heritage.”

Full of hearty vegetables you can see and taste, and inspired by the simple goodness of Tuscan cooking, Bertolli Rustic Cut Pasta sauces help bring homemade flavor to your table. Offered in four varieties – Marinara with Traditional Vegetables, Spicy Marinara with Traditional Vegetables, Roasted Garlic Marinara with Garden Vegetables and Sweet Peppers with Portobello Mushrooms – it’s Lowe’s secret ingredient to helping make family meals more enjoyable.

Roasted Garlic Marinara Braised Chicken with Linguine Recipe courtesy of Sean and Catherine Lowe Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 60 minutes | Servings: 4-6

Find more family-friendly recipes to bring everyone together at bertolli.com.

Three-Cheese Farmstand Cups Prep time: 20 minutes | Cook time: 15 minutes | Servings: 6 Ingredients: 2 c ups cooked mini penne pasta 1 cup small broccoli florets, cut into 1/2-inch pieces nonstick cooking spray 1/4 cup mascarpone cheese 3 e ggs, beaten 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1 jar (23 ounces) Bertolli Rustic Cut Sweet Peppers and Portobello Mushroom Sauce, divided 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

Add chicken to sauce in Dutch oven in single layer, skin-side up, with skin just above surface of sauce.

Cover and bake 40 minutes. Begin to boil water for pasta.

Let stand 3 minutes before unmolding. Warm remaining sauce and serve over top of cups with basil.

Grilled Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers Prep time: 20 minutes | Cook time: 20 minutes | Servings: 6

Reduce heat to low; cover. Cook 4 minutes, or until pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat; cool slightly.

Stir in cheese, almonds and 1/4 cup mint. Brush outsides of peppers with remaining oil. Grill 4-6

Place portion of pasta in pasta bowl and make well in middle. Spoon mushroom-kale mixture into center of well and top with one piece of chicken.

Remove chicken from skillet, leaving fat in pan. Set aside skillet to be used later.

Sprinkle tops with remaining mozzarella cheese halfway through bake time.

In medium skillet on medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon oil. Add pasta; cook and stir 2-3 minutes, or until light golden brown. Stir in broth and 1 cup sauce; bring to boil.

Directions: Heat oven to 350 F.

In large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Add chicken, skin-side down, and cook 3-5 minutes, or until skin is crisp and deep goldenbrown. Turn chicken over and cook 3-5 minutes until golden-brown on second side.

Stir in Parmesan, 2 cups sauce and 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese. Spoon 1/4 cup egg mixture over pasta and broccoli in each cup; with spoon press filling down gently. Bake 18-20 minutes, or until set.

Directions: Heat grill to high.

Cook pasta al dente according to package instructions. Drain.

In 3-quart Dutch oven over medium heat, heat sauce. Season chicken on both sides with salt and pepper.

Directions: Heat oven to 375 F. Divide penne pasta and broccoli evenly between 12 standard muffin cups sprayed with cooking spray. Whisk in mascarpone until smooth; gradually whisk in eggs.

Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided 1 1/2 cups (10 ounces) uncooked orzo pasta 1 can (14 1/2 ounces) vegetable broth 1 jar (23 ounces) marinara sauce, divided 6 ounces crumbled feta cheese 1/2 cup (2 ounces) coarsely chopped smoked almonds 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint, divided 6 large red, yellow or orange bell peppers, top 1/2 inch removed and seeded

Ingredients: 23 ounces marinara sauce 6-8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs 2 teaspoons kosher salt 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil 1 pound whole-wheat linguine 8 ounces sliced cremini mushrooms 1/2cup small diced onion 1/4 cup white wine (optional) 3 ounces baby kale Parmesan cheese

minutes, or until crisp tender and lightly marked on all sides, turning frequently; cool slightly.

Place peppers in center of 12-by-12-inch square of heavy duty foil. Bring sides of foil up and shape foil around each pepper, leaving tops open. Shape foil into stable base to secure peppers firmly. Keep upright while grilling.

Fill each pepper with 1 tablespoon sauce and about 3/4 cup orzo mixture. Grill peppers 8-10 minutes, or until filling is heated through. Remove from foil. Warm remaining sauce. Sprinkle with remaining mint before serving with warmed sauce.

To prepare peppers: Heat oven to 400 F. Prepare orzo mixture as directed but do not grill peppers.

Fill raw peppers with orzo mixture and place on foil squares. Bring sides of foil up and seal tops to fully enclose each pepper.

Arrange on rimmed baking sheet and bake 20-25 minutes, or until peppers are soft and filling is heated through.

Remove cover from Dutch oven and cook in oven 10 minutes.

Heat reserved skillet and fat over medium-high heat; add cremini mushrooms and onions; saute until lightly browned. Deglaze with white wine, if desired, and cook until dry. Add kale to mushrooms and toss gently to wilt.

Remove Dutch oven from oven and gently transfer chicken to large plate. Add pasta to sauce in Dutch oven and stir gently to coat.

Shave Parmesan cheese over dish to finish.

Substitution: Portobello, shiitake or button mushrooms may be used in place of cremini mushrooms.

Tip: Serve with creamy polenta instead of pasta.

In saucepan, combine 2 cups chicken stock, 2 cups milk, 2 tablespoons butter and 1 teaspoon kosher salt. Bring to boil and whisk in 1 cup instant polenta and cook, while stirring, 5 minutes. Add 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese and whisk to combine.

Spoon polenta into serving dish and make a well in middle. Place mushroom-kale mixture in well.

Top with marinara sauce and one piece of chicken.

10

Learn & Play

January 31, 2018 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Crossword Puzzle Theme: Winter Olympics

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. Nordic glühwein 6. *It last broadcast the Olympics in 1988 9. Sigma Phi Epsilon 13. Yokel’s holler 14. Promise to pay 15. Pre-bun state 16. Dug up 17. Luftwaffe’s WWII enemy 18. Provide with ability 19. *Country with most Winter Olympic gold medals 21. *Number of 2018 Winter Olympics sports 23. Dog command 24. Small island 25. Cul de ____ 28. Partial haircut 30. Geek and jock, e.g.

35. S-shaped molding 37. International Civil Aviation Org. 39. Best not mentioned 40. Pakistani language 41. *American skating icon 43. College cadet program 44. Crocodile ones are insincere 46. Make children 47. This and the other 48. Praise for a fearless one 50. Dispatch 52. Ornamental pond-dweller 53. Classic sci-fi video game 55. Drag behind 57. *Done on 90m hill 61. “I love the smell of ____ in the morning.”

64. UFO pilot?

65. 1973 Supreme Court decision name 67. “Complete ____’s Guides” 69. Short for incognito 70. Tokyo, in the olden days 71. Impulse transmitter 72. Indian restaurant staple 73. D.C. bigwig 74. Like a rookie

DOWN 1. *Olympic participant’s hangout 2. Been in bed 3. *8-time American speed skating medalist 4. Regular visitors 5. Long-billed shore bird 6. Well-ventilated 7. Flapper’s neckwear 8. Spots for links 9. Arial, e.g.

10. Ill-mannered 11. Malaria symptom 12. Subsequently 15. *”Agony of ____” 20. Like anchor aweigh 22. Not well 24. Ezra Pounds’ poetry movement 25. *Which Korea is 2018 Winter host?

26. Come to terms 27. Closet wood 29. Frosts a cake 31. Fence prickle 32. Kindle content 33. Powerball, e.g.

34. *2014 Winter host city 36. France’s currency 38. Shrek 42. Busybody, in yiddish 45. House cover 49. Opposite of pro 51. *Olympic no-no 54. Shrek and Fiona 56. Crane or heron 57. Jainism follower 58. Arm part 59. Isinglass 60. Lowly laborer 61. Rhymes with #60 Down 62. Plural of lira 63. Change of address 66. Lyric poem 68. X See answers on page 13

By Cindy Moore

ALARMING Seriously, two in one week?! Yet again another false alarm bomb alert went off – this time in Japan. It seems as if Kim Jong Loon has everybody trigger happy and that the fail-safe alarm buttons are not so fail-safe. Really? The safety of our entire country relies on the single press of a button?

I can’t even delete a document without being asked multiple times if it’s really what I want to do and then send in a blood sample to prove it’s actually me!

The employees of the bomb bunker buried deep within the granite mountains of unknown whereabouts on a planet far off in a distant galaxy have nothing to do but wait for the okay to push the warning button. So it must be pretty boring in between waiting for that call. How do they pass the time?

Doyle: “Go on, Darrell, I dare ya to push the button. Let’s see if this puppy really works.”

Darrell: “Bet ya 100 points it does work.”

Doyle: “Dude, bet ya 200 it doesn’t.”

“Does!”

“Ya? How we ever gonna know? What if it doesn’t work and all these years we’ve been down here with a broken button. How we gonna explain that to the world when it’s frying like bacon? Go ahead push it.”

“No way. You push it!”

“Then just bump it. You know…like an accident.”

“Throw in an extra hour of playing Candy Crush during lunchtime.”

“How about an extra hour of sleep during break time?”

“No way, last time you drew bullet holes all over

my face with a Sharpie. Give me my extra thirty points for banking that shot off of your head and into the garbage can during wastebasket ball yesterday and we’ll talk.”

“Dude, only if you’ll give me forty points for chugging down that liter of Coke and belching for a full minute during breakfast this morning!”

“Deal. Let’s see, that brings our running total of game points to…a dead even.”

“We need a deal breaker. I know, for 50 points email this picture of a naked mole rat to Kim Jong Loon and tell him it’s his Match.com date!”

“Nice try. They don’t even have the internet.”

“Then I’ll fax it to him. Here’s the number.”

“Cool. Now punch send.”

“Oops! Wrong button.”

A red glowing message says missile alert activated.

“Whoa, Dude. It really works.”

“Awesome. I get 100 points. I’m ahead!”

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 31, 2018

Sports you see with Gary B...

Former St. Louis Big Red quarterback and baseball Cardinal third baseman spotted

Sports

11

– SUDOKU – base on two Met errors in the top of the 25th inning.

Hope you enjoyed a trip down memory lane! * Thanks to Fred for all the great things he has done to make Fredrick’s an iconic location

Lindenwood’s women’s hockey team takes series The Lindenwood University club completed a two-game series sweep over the Robert Morris University (RIT) Tigers recently at Lindenwood Ice Arena in Wentzville. The Lions prevailed by a final Submitted photo score of 3-1, register(From left) Ken Reitz stands with Fred Waellter and Tim Van Galder. ing all three of their goals during the secYou just never know when you will have an ond period. The series sweep was Lindenwood’s opportunity to run into professional ball play- first since it took both games of a two-game set ers of your favorite pastime. against Penn State on Feb. 8-9, 2014.

Recently at Fredrick’s Steakhouse and PizzeGoals were scored by Lillian Marchant who ria in Bridgeton, Fred Waelter of Fredrick’s in- notched two and a single one by Hannah Alt. troduced me to two guys that I saw many times * Strong second period did the trick on the gridiron and baseball diamond.

Tim Van Galder and Ken Reitz strolled into Tryouts available for the establishment that just happened to have the River City Rascals hall-of-fame tight end, formerly with the St. The River City club Louis Football Cardinals, Jackie Smith singing will be holding a tryout several songs. on April 21 at Carshield Van Galder affectionately known as ‘TVG’, Field, the home of the played quarterback for the football Cardiac Rascals.

Cardinals in 1967, 1971 and 1972. He also had For more information a year with the New York Jets in 1974. That is go to www.RiverCityRaswhere he told me a quick story that went some- cals.com thing like this…he was going out to dinner with * Rascal baseball in 92 days some friends and his roommate on the Jets asked, “Do you mind if I can join you guys?”

TVG looked and him and said, “Sure, your more than welcome to join us.”

His roommate…..was ‘”Broadway Joe” Namath.

Ken Reitz affectionately known as ‘The Zamboni’ for his skill at scooping up ground balls, played for the Cardinals in 1972-1975 and I will be broadcasting the 1977-1980. He also played with the San Francis“STL Health and Wellness LIVE” show co Giants 1976, Chicago Cubs 1981 and Pittsevery Saturday from 9-11 am on burgh Pirates 1982. A few accomplishments was 590 The Fan and 590TheFan.com replacing Joe Torre at third base and in 1975 he won a Gold Glove Award at third base, breaking Doug Rader’s streak of five consecutive Gold Gary Baute, a St. Louis naGloves. tive, may be educated in busiReitz has a place in baseball history for one ness but he lives and breathes of the longest major league games ever played. sports. As a fan or an athlete, Gary is all sports all the time.

On Sept. 11, 1974, against the New York Mets He hosted a radio sports proat Shea Stadium, with the Cardinals trailing gram on KFNS, emceed the 3-1 with two out in the ninth and pinch runRiver City Rascals’ inauguner Larry Herndon on base, he hit a home run ral season, and co-hosted off starter Jerry Koosman to send the game into SportsRadioSTL.com, among many other activities. extra innings. The score remained tied 3-3 until Bake McBride scored the winning run from first

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

www.treesbywoody.net

www.valleyind.net

12

What’s Happening

January 31, 2018 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

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

EVENTS 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. 2: Steak dinner

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

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 information, refreshments and much more. The heart fair is proudly sponsored by the Christian Hospital Foundation.

Feb. 3: BB shoot

$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 9: Country fried steak or meatloaf dinner

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

Feb. 10: Breakfast

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

Feb. 10: Flea market

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

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 314-429-7464.

Feb. 14: Karaoke

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

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. 7: Karaoke

Feb 16: Fish dinner

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.

Fish dinner at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 3 to 7 p.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information call 314-831-6121.

Feb. 8: Open house

Feb. 17: Chili cook-off and desert competition

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 – one-third 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

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 314-2104774 for more info.

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

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.

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. 19: Alzheimer’s discussion

March 31: Suits for soldiers

Feb. 17: BB gun shoot

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

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.

Feb. 21: Karaoke

April 28: Poetry and open mic

“Alzheimer’s – A Family Challenge” will be the program for the meeting of the Ferguson-Florissant Branch (North County) American Association of University Women. Mrytis Spencer, Community Outreach Coordinator, and Andrea Denny, JD, who work for the Knight Alzheimer Research Center of Washington University will be the program presenters. The meeting will be at 10 a.m. at Immanuel UCC at 211 Church Street in Ferguson. The program is free and open to the public. For more information, call 314-522-0413, 314-831-5359 or 314-831-6884.

Feb. 21: Heart screening

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. 23: Fish dinner

Fish dinner at Florissant Valley VFW Post 4105, located at 410 St. Francois, from 3 to 7 p.m. All profits go to support veterans. For more information call 314-831-6121.

Feb. 24: Trivia night

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

Feb. 24: Free concert

Free concert featuring Justin B. Funk & The Funk Session Band takes place at the Blockhouse Saloon at 8124 St. Charles Rock Rd. from 9 p.m. – 12 a.m. Free food until it’s gone.

Feb. 28: 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. 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

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.

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.

Every Wednesday: Bingo Morning at Florissant Elks Lodge #2316

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

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

Bridgeton Trails Library Branch Programs:

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

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

Florissant Senior Citizens’ Bingo Clubs: 314.839.7604.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • January 31, 2018

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.

Fridays: Celebrate Recovery

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

Saturdays: Free walk-in clinic

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

Saturdays: Clothing sale

On the second Saturday of each month Bethany-Peace UCC at 11952 Bellefontaine Rd. in St. Louis County hosts a clothing sale from 9 - 11 a.m. For sale are used clothing and shoes, some household items, books and toys. Fill your bag for $1.

Saturdays: Grief support group

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

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

Sundays: Meat shoot

Come and enjoy the meat shoots at

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

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

Sundays: meeting

Jennings

Do-Dads

The Jennings Do-Dads hold meetings every third Sunday of the month (except June which is the second Sunday and no meeting in December) at 1 p.m. at Classics Bar & Grill at 11601 West Florissant Avenue. Those interested in membership are invited to 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 year-round and serves families throughout the greater St. Charles region. 24-hour helpline: 314.768.3201.

Or 636.947.0600, www.crisisnurserykids.org

Center for Senior Renewal:

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

Nutrition Education:

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

Christian Center:

Hospital

Recovery

What’s Happening

formation.

SSM DePaul Wellness Center:

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

Free Mammogram Screenings:

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

Speaker’s Bureau:

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

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

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

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

Volunteers Needed at Christian Hospital: Call 314.653.5032

First and Third Tuesdays: Support Group for Women

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.

SUDOKU answers from page 11

Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse

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

Third Saturdays: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group

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

Last Saturdays: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group:

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

Last Tuesdays: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group

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

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

CROSSWORD answers from page 10

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 in-

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January 31, 2018 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

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

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

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January 31, 2018 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

“Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri” ‘Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri’ is an Oscar front-runner

M O V I E

By Steve Bryan

This year’s Oscar race for Best Picture contains films written by talented storytellers such as Martin McDonagh. The writer/director behind “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri” tells a compelling story of justice and redemption set in the Midwest. It’s a solid piece with just a few flaws that can be overlooked in light of its great performances.

Frances McDormand plays Mildred, a divorced mom whose daughter was murdered months earlier. Scraping together some cash, Mildred rents three billboards just outside of town to send a message to Sheriff Bill Willoughby (a superb Woody Harrelson). The grieving mother simply wants to know why local law enforcement has made no arrests in the case.

Willoughby is a popular guy, so the messages have a polarizing effect on the town. The billboards also prompt the sheriff to review the case file on the murder. Officer Jason Dixon (an impressive Sam Rockwell) has the most trouble with the billboards, though. His momma (Sandy Martin) is not the caring and nurturing type, delivering zingers and insults between sips of beer.

At its heart, “Three Billboards” is a simple story set in a quiet town where everyone knows everybody’s business. Frances McDormand’s razor-sharp performance is the high point of the film. Mildred steadfastly refuses to take down the messages despite threats to her and her friends.

McDormand also embodies Mildred’s vulnerability when dealing with abusive ex-husband Charlie (John Hawkes).

Woody Harrelson is outstanding as Sheriff Willoughby. The peace officer is a complex guy who passionately loves his two daughters and his wife, Anne (Abbie Cornish). Despite their differences, there’s obvious respect between Mildred and Bill, who genuinely wants to solve the case.

Willoughby also is dealing with some health issue as well.

Sam Rockwell turns in one of his best performances as Jason Dixon.

Still living with his mother, Dixon wants to become a detective, but he sabotages his own career. Disorganized and extremely racist, the officer can be found reading comic books at his desk and also misplaces his badge. Rockwell handles Dixon’s story arc beautifully here.

Caleb Landry Jones (“X-Men First Class) deserves special mention for his work as Red Welby, the young man whose company owns the

billboards. Red may come off as something of a hick, but he’s actually a sharp character. He stands up to increasing pressure from the police and bravely faces an intoxicated Officer Dixon. This young man also is capable of incredible compassion.

“Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri” tells a complicated story.

Mildred wants the killer found and punished. Officer Dixon has led a questionable life but gets a shot at redemption. Red, who didn’t even know the billboards existed, helps take up Mildred’s cause in his own way. These complex characters and performances make this film Oscarworthy.

“Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri,” rated R for violence, language throughout and some sexual references, currently is playing in theaters.

"Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri" photo courtesy Fox Searchlight Pictures Born and raised in South St. Louis, Steve Bryan is now based in Anaheim, California, and has been allowed access to movie and television sets to see actors and directors at work. Though his writing has taken him far from St. Louis, Steve is, at heart, still the same wideeyed kid who spent countless hours watching classic movies at neighborhood theaters.

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