CN: March 16, 2022

March 16, 2022

Flying high

Around Town

Circus Harmony’s positive impact as a St. Louis institution is celebrated in a photo exhibit at the Lambert Gallery in St. Louis Lambert International Airport

COMMUNITY VOICES

By Basia Skudrzyk. Pg. 2 Mar. 18: Free, pop-up health fairs being held at the Emerson Park and North Hanley Transit Centers . Pg. 4 A SENIOR MOMENT. Pg. 5

By Wendy Todd If you’ve ever had dreams of flying the trapeze with greatest of ease there’s a place where those dreams can come true. Circus Harmony is a nonprofit organization and only location in St. Louis that provides circus training.

The inclusive school is an arts education and youth development organization that uses circus arts to motivate social change. A photo exhibit featuring the performers will be at the Lambert Gallery in the St. Louis Lambert International Airport beginning March 15.

Circus Harmony was started in 2007 by Jessica Hentoff after her first circus troupe, the St. Louis Arches, which was a community outreach program for Circus Flora, came to an end due to lack of funding. Hentoff wanted to continue the mission.

“By inspiring individuals and connecting communities with our circus education and entertainment programs we have a positive impact on the St. Louis area and beyond,” said Hentoff.

Themes of social change are woven into the curriculum by teaching community and cooperation. Students from all backgrounds are taught to work with and support each other as they learn circus skills and tricks.

Personal development is also a part of the experience as students learn valuable life skills such as perseverance, focus and teamwork.

“Through circus arts we help every student find their strengths, realize their creativity, and learn to accept and encourage themselves and others to be the best they

Special Section NORTHWEST NEWS Parkway School District selects teachers of the year. Pg. 7

Features

Recipe, Movie & Sudoku.

Pg. F-1 Submitted photo A photo exhibit featuring the performers of Circus Harmony will be at the Lambert Gallery in the St. Louis Lambert International Airport beginning March 15.

can be both in and out of the circus ring,” says Hentoff. “Our alumni will be the ones to ensure a more inclusive world by finding a place for everyone, connecting people from different communities, and helping to find creative solutions to real world issues.”

Prior to the pandemic Circus Harmony, in addition to providing training, put on over 700 shows a year with over 1,200 children. The organization has also performed globally in regions such as Puerto Rico and Germany. Being an arts education program, it seemed fitting to feature its players in an

artistic event such as the photography exhibit, “Watch Out for Flying Children”, at the Lambert Airport gallery.

“The point of this exhibit opportunity from Via Partnership and Regional Arts Commission is to present the best of St. Louis arts and culture,” Hentoff says. “We were honored to be chosen. We do think our students are St. Louis’ bounciest ambassadors. We not only change the perception our students have of themselves regarding See ‘FLYING’ page 2

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Around Town

March 16, 2022 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

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their own capabilities, but we also change the perception of the people who watch them, or will see this exhibit, about what young people are capable of accomplishing.”

Though there is a strong youth component Circus Harmony offers classes from beginner to advanced levels in a wide assortment of circus arts for all ages.

“Currently, our students range in age from 3-92 years old,” says Hentoff.

Classes are year-round at City Museum as well as other off-site locations throughout St. Louis.

Performances are at the City Museum every week and additional locations around the St. Louis Metropolitan areas. The group can also be seen performing with Circus Flora every year.

The photo exhibit at the Lambert Gallery will be available through Sept. 15.

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League of Women Voters hosts Normandy school board candidate forum March 21

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The League of Women Voters of Metro St. Louis will host a candidate forum on Monday, March 21 at 5:30 p.m. featuring candidates for the Normandy Schools Collaborative Joint Executive Governing Board (JEGB).

The public will vote for candidates for the JEGB on the April 5 ballot, beginning Normandy Schools Collaborative’s transition from an appointed school board to an elected one. NSC has been under state control since 2014, and the governing board is currently made up of seven members appointed by the Missouri Board of Education. The April election will replace two of the appointed Normandy board members, Sara Foster and Mike Jones, with new members chosen by the voters.

During the forum, candidates will be given an opportunity to speak and answer questions submitted by community members in advance. Questions can be submitted at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/ 1FAIpQLS cxyBfqgB Q wnUAq8rRUkE8UIQnqFf02AgK6BJxnWALT4VzAVg/viewform The candidate forum will take place at Barack Obama School at 3883 Jennings Station Road. Seating will be limited due to COVID restrictions and can also be attended virtually via Zoom. The Zoom link will be posted on the district’s website.

Seven candidates filed to be on the April 5 election ballot to fill two open seats on the Normandy school board. Those who filed are: Christopher Petty, Marcieta Reed, Harlan Hodge, Violet Taylor, Catasha Jones-Moran, Joseph Zenon and Robin Blount. To find more information about the candidates, please visit https:// www.normandysc.org/Page/1830.

COMMUNITY VOICES:

By Basia Skudrzyk

Helping the homeless through workforce development St. Patrick Center provides opportunities for self-sufficiency and dignity to people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.

Individuals and families build permanent, positive change in their lives through safe and affordable housing, sound mental and physical health, employment and financial stability.

St. Patrick Center’s Workforce Development Team supports this mission by helping clients achieve meaningful, sustainable employment through training, mentorship, occupational therapy and coaching. Workforce development not only improves clients’ prospects in life, but also leads to benefits for the family and the community at large. We work with community partners to help people achieve success.

Workforce development is an ongoing process of educating and empowering people so they can tackle the workplace problems of tomorrow and grow towards achieving their goals. In addition to employment training, we introduce clients to mentors and networks to promote long-term success and support.

One-on-one coaching helps clients create custom employment plans to help achieve their maximum potential.

About 60 people each month participate in St. Patrick Center employment programs. As-

sessment tools allow our client to consider a variety of employment opportunities beyond the traditional model of janitorial and fastfood industries only.

Three training sessions focused on up-skilling and re-skilling are offered:

Pathways to Progress, Precision Recovery, Building Union Diversity, Missouri Department of Corrections, Criminal Justice Ministry, Duo Dogs, LaunchCode, Saavy Coders, Saint Louis University, Spire, Missouri Botanical Garden, Fresh Thyme and others.

Job Readiness Training focuses on resume writing, career assessment, interviewing and preparing for the workforce. Employers host mock interviews and provide potential opportunities.

St. Patrick Center also offers computer literacy programming, GED training, transportation, clothing, food and cell-phones. Specialized training is also offered to clients interested in landscaping and janitorial services.

At St. Patrick Center, we believe human potential is an investment in people and in our community.

Roots of Success prepares people from communities with high rates of poverty, unemployment, environmental problems, and injustices for environmental careers and to improve conditions in their communities.

This training increases environmental literacy, prepares participants for 150-plus careers that can provide economic security, and inspires them to become activists and leaders in their communities and beyond.

Workin’ It Out is a soft skills training program designed to help justice system-impacted people prepare for the workforce. Volunteer community partners give presentations on company best practices, leadership, motivational speaking and more. Partners include Worldwide Technology, Fidelity Investments,

Basia Skudrzyk is a workforce development case manager at St. Patrick. She holds degrees in business administration, marketing, organizational behavior and international public relations. She is passionate about developing learners and leaders and creating experiences that help people transform their lives.

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 • March 16, 2022

Around Town

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Rung For Women celebrates Women’s History Month with a rally cry St. Louis based nonprofit Rung For Women exists to identify and employ solutions to the systemic economic, social, and health barriers preventing women from creating wealth.

This March, Rung is celebrating Women’s History Month and Equal Pay Day with events and collaborations. At the center is a t-shirt collaboration with woman-owned retail store Golden Gems. The t-shirt reads a resounding “Girls Just Want to Get Paid.”

Rung President Leslie Gill says the tagline is a rally cry aimed at shifting narratives and building power around money, “Women’s History Month is not just a time to celebrate the women who came before us but about standing in our power and holding space for all women to earn more money and gain more access to the lives they want to lead.”

Overall, women working full time in the U.S. make 83% of what men do. The gap is wider for women of color and for mothers. This causes a wealth gap over a woman’s lifetime that can dilute and diminish quality of life.

Women make up about two-thirds of workers in lowwage jobs (i.e., jobs that pay as low as $7.50 an hour, the federal minimum wage) though they make up slightly less than half (47%) of the workforce as a whole. Women of color are particularly overrepresented in these jobs.

Wealth is the primary vehicle to economic security, opportunities, protection against crises, and access to political power and social capital. To help women build wealth, Rung empowers their members to

break through barriers of occupational segregation by helping women make informed decisions about their career pathways, and by providing access to career development programs, mentorship, and a community of like-minded women.

Rung has been working on job training programs, including a geospatial partnership with Maryville University that won a 250,000 federal grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce to expand a training course designed to ensure that women, especially those of Submitted photo color, have access to geospatial careers.

Gill has a message to share with local This March, Rung For Women is celebrating Women’s History Month and Equal Pay Day with and collaborations. At the center is a t-shirt collaboration with woman-owned retail women looking to build wealth for them- events store Golden Gems. The t-shirt reads a resounding “Girls Just Want to Get Paid.” selves and their families, “You are worthy of the life you want to lead and there is a pathway to store located at 3108 Locust in the Midtown area of get there. If you feel stuck in the middle of your career, St. Louis City and at ShopGoldenGems.com. use my words as a sign it’s time to step into your power.

• Money is the Motive Virtual Event My hope is that our team at Rung can be a guide along March 28 at 7:30 a.m. This is a 30-minute meditation the way.” and yoga session with Andrea Cox from The CollecRung invites women throughout the metro area to tive STL, a co-designer of Rung For Women. participate in a month of festivities: • Golden Gems T-Shirt Collaboration From March 15 – 31, Rung For Women and Golden Gems have teamed up to sell t-shirts featuring the tagline “Girls Just Wanna Get Paid.” The t-shirt is $32 plus tax and will be for sale at Golden Gems’ retail

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Around Town

March 16, 2022 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Free, pop-up health fairs being held at the Emerson Park and North Hanley Transit Centers Citizens for Modern Transit (CMT), Metro Transit, St. Clair County Transit District, Bureau of Transit Police, Metro Transit Public Safety, Chestnut Health Systems University of Missouri–St. Louis and AARP in St. Louis are teaming up to host free, pop-up health fairs at the Emerson Park and North Hanley Transit Centers – on Friday, March 18.

These events are part of a joint effort encouraging transit riders, and the community at large, to “Step into a Healthier You in 2022 with Transit” by providing access to an array of health and wellness resources and reinforcing how the region’s interconnected public transit system gets residents where they need to go – including doctors’ offices, hospitals, pharmacies,

dentists, workout facilities, grocery stores and other establishments that promote health and wellness.

The pop-up health fair at the Emerson Park Transit Center (929 15th Street, East St. Louis, Illinois) will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and the one at the North Hanley Transit Center (4300 North Hanley Road) will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Those in attendance can gain access to a wide variety of resources ranging from primary physician visits during 30-minute time slots via the Chestnut Mobile Unit, healthy foods, COVID-19 vaccinations, at-home test kits and dental health supplies to giveaways from AARP in St. Louis, information about job opportunities in transit, free weekly passes from Move by BJC (a fitness center in St. Louis Cortex) and a wealth of information about community programming. Different resources will be available at the two health fairs. For a complete listing of what can be accessed where, visit www.cmt-stl.org.

“The transit system in our region can get people where they need to go – while offering a physical

activity component that isn’t top of mind for many,” commented Kimberly Cella, executive director for Citizens for Modern Transit. “These events will provide access to a wide variety of free wellness resources while educating those in attendance about the many benefits of using transit.”

As part of the morning commute on Friday, March 18, transit ambassadors and other volunteers will be at several different Metro Transit Centers handing out stress balls that say, “Ride and Relax” and information about the lunchtime health fairs taking place later that day.

This is part of the partnering organizations ongoing efforts designed to interact with riders, strengthen relationships and reinforce their collective commitment to a safe, comfortable, customer-focused transit experience.

To learn more about “Step into a Healthier You in 2022 with Transit,” visit www.cmt-stl.org, www. metrostlouis.org or www.scctd.org.

www.InvinciCorp.com

Still In This Together:

By Vicki Bahr

All in the course of one God-given day

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The first text was adorable. Twin two-year-old grandboys were having a conversation while our daughter was a room away in the bathroom.

“Where mama go?” asked Brady when he realized she wasn’t in the room. Ellis replied, “Mama need more coffee.”

I laughed out loud at their cute interaction, very aware that just a few months ago, before the wonderfully patient help from their speech pathologist, those words wouldn’t have been uttered. But I barely had time to respond with a heart emoji and a laughing face emoji before I heard another ding on my phone.

“Mom, I swear I was only in the bathroom a minute, ninety seconds tops, and this is what I found when I walked back into their bedroom. And there was the unmistakable evidence: a picture of the boys’ white bedroom wall, enhanced with multi-colored spirals and squiggles, curlicues and crooked lines.

The boys both had ultra-washable crayons in their hands, but when asked who had colored on the wall, Ellis said, “No Ellis, Brady.”

And red-rubber-booted Brady blamed his stuffed bear.

Oh, there’s so much learning going on during the twelve months that toddlers are two. And most of the learning is by the parents of those two-year-olds.

No, nothing is sacred. No, you can’t expect to have anything nice until they’re ten, if then. No, the words ultra-washable don’t necessarily mean your wall will ever look the same until you repaint it, and maybe not even then. And, no, putting the twins in their high chairs with a snack while you try to clean the wall doesn’t guarantee that when you return they won’t both be stark naked and the wrong twin won’t be wearing the other twin’s glasses.

But when you text your mother that you have to laugh or you’re going to cry, the guarantee is that she will hate what you’re having to go through, she will send you a kiss emoji and so many virtual hugs

and wishes that the twins will have a very nice, very lengthy afternoon nap and wake with smiles on their faces and “Hi, Mamas” for you as you open their bedroom door.

Because while they are sleeping, you’ve been watching news coverage of bombings half a world away, stricken faces of mothers cradling their babies in improvised subway station bomb shelters, wondering where formula and diapers will come from, residents frantically imagining what the city above them will resemble when they finally venture back to their homes, fathers placing their hands on the opposite side of the glass from their crying children’s on overfilled departing trains, wondering if they will survive their homeland’s struggle for independence.

There are scenes of bloodshed and bombing, grief and disbelief, crying eyes and screaming faces, ravaged cities and burned-out buildings. And your heart is broken seeing the grief as it unfolds and your own wonderful babies sleep peacefully above you.

Tonight, there will be cardboard boxes to be colored, laughter as your boys climb through the pretend doors and windows, “cook” you pretend coffee and run on their chubby legs to deliver it to you, complete with sloppy kisses and the beautiful sounds of their voices.

And you will say your prayers together and send them heavenward with a heart that is broken and so very, very thankful.

Vicki Bahr is an inveterate word lover and story sharer, a published author in magazine, newspaper and blog forms. As a mom of four, grandma of nine, and wife of one for nearly fifty years, she finds that inspiration and wonder are everywhere.

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 • March 16, 2022

THIS WEEK’S PICK

Registration now open for the spring session of Citizens for Modern Transit’s Ten Toe Express

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Submitted photo

emps are rising, days are getting longer, people are getting back out and about – and Citizens for Modern Transit (CMT) and AARP in St. Louis announced registration is now open for the CMT Ten Toe Express. This award-winning program helps older adults and other interested individuals lead healthier lives by linking activity, sociability and exercise with the use of MetroLink and MetroBus. The spring session is 12 weeks long, running from April 6 through the end of June and costs $10 to participate. Registration can be completed at www.cmt-stl.org or at one of the many in-person registrations events being held community wide.

The Ten Toe Express program features weekly guided Ten Toe Express Walking Tours, allowing walkers to be part of a group as they become familiar with the transit system and how to utilize it to get to attractions regionwide. These walks, led by trained, volunteer walk leaders, range in length from 0.3 to five miles, depending on the group and destination.

Each starts from either the Brentwood I-64, Forest Park-DeBaliviere, Belleville, Rock Road, North Hanley or Shrewsbury-Lansdowne 44 Transit Centers. They then take the MetroLink or MetroBus to Forest Park, downtown St. Louis, the Delmar Loop, downtown Belleville and other areas (depending on the week) where they explore local attractions and stop for lunch or a snack before heading back. Special walks are scheduled periodically throughout the season. Walking maps with instructions on how to utilize transit to get to many of the region’s cultural and entertainment hot spots are available online to assist those who want to explore areas on their own.

First-time registrants receive a

walking kit containing a pedometer, maps, transit tickets and a safety tips flyer in a Ten Toe tote bag. Registration can be complete online at www. cmt-stl.org. In-person registration events are scheduled for the following dates, times and locations: • March 22 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the MetroStore: (801 Pine Street, St. Louis 63101) • March 29 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Belleville Transit Center: (800 Scheel Street, Belleville, Illinois 62221) “Ten Toe Express has been a transformational experience for a majority of the 8,000 older adults who have participated in the program since its inception in 2007,” commented Kimberly Cella, executive director of Citizens for Modern Transit. “It gets people moving, creates friendships and helps them maintain their independence and mobility. While hundreds of new people join every year, there are also hundreds of people who have participated for more than a decade – and that speaks to the impact of this programming.”

Any returning Ten Toe walker who gets a friend, family member or colleague to participate in the upcoming spring session will receive a special gift for themselves and the new registrant.

To learn more about the Ten Toe Express® program, visit www.cmtstl.org or call 314-231-7272.

Around Town

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Citizens For Modern Transit reminds commuters about its Try & Ride program as gas prices rise As prices at the pump continue to rise, Citizens for Modern Transit (CMT) is encouraging area residents to consider utilizing public transit. The organization has a free Try & Ride program that makes it easy for those who are new to MetroLink or MetroBus to familiarize themselves with the region’s integrated system to get them where they need to go.

“Public transit is a safe, convenient and cost-effective transportation option, but many shy away from it because of the unknowns – including which route or line to take, how to purchase tickets and more,” commented Kimberly Cella, executive director of Citizens for Modern Transit. “The Try & Ride program addresses these concerns head-on. It has helped more than 6,000 individuals familiarize themselves with the system and has been credited with turning many first-time transit users into regular transit commuters.”

The Try & Ride program is open to any Missouri or Illinois residents who don’t already utilize the St. Louis region’s public transportation system for their workday com-

mutes. Upon registering, each program participant receives personalized transit routes, a month of complimentary tickets, a journal to jot down reminders and a list of tips for using transit. The program requires riders to commit to utilizing the bus or train for one additional month at their own expense for a total of two months.

Registration also automatically enrolls individuals in the Guaranteed Ride Home program, which provides subsidized access, a cab ride, rental car to ride-hailing services like Lyft in the case of an emergency or unexpected schedule change at work.

“A monthly transit pass is $78 and provides unlimited rides on the MetroLink and MetroBus,” added Cella. “This is an affordable means for traveling, especially considering gas is $4 a gallon.”

To learn more about CMT’s Try & Ride Program or to register, visit www.cmt-stl.org.

Business

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March 16, 2022 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Greater North County Chamber of Commerce supports the city of Florissant’s Prop U The Greater North County Chamber Board of Directors have voted to support the city of Florissant’s Proposition U (Prop U). Prop U will be on the April 5 ballot for voters to consider, which is a Local Use Tax. “Prop U will not increase the local tax rate you pay when shopping anywhere in Florissant or anywhere else in Missouri,” stated Carl Lathan, Board Chair for the Greater North County Chamber; “It will not increase what you pay when shopping at your favorite local supermarket, florist, bakery, or hardware store.”

Prop U is a tax on the purchase of goods by Missou-

ri residents from out-of-state vendors. Products exempt from the sales tax would be exempt from the use tax. The local use tax rate is the same rate as the total local sales tax rate. If the local sales tax is reduced or raised by voter approval, the local use tax shall also be reduced or raised by the same action.

“Prop U is not a double tax, it simply requires outof-state vendors to collect our local sales tax,” said Venus Martz, President of the Greater North County Chamber.

Local food company expands to new headquarters in former Weber Grill restaurant

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St. Louis’ locally made plant-based food company rootberry has expanded its headquarters to the former Weber Grill restaurant on the northern end of the St. Louis Galleria. The expansion comes after increased demand following the company’s launch in June 2021. rootberry now occupies the entire restaurant and storefront, and will use the space for preparation and production of its line of plant-based meals, salads, shareables, and desserts. rootberry Submitted photo products are currently available for home and St. Louis’ locally made plant-based food company rootberry has expanded its headquarters to the former Weber Grill office delivery in St. Lou- restaurant on the northern end of the St. Louis Galleria. is City, St. Louis County and St. Charles County, as well as at 48 retail locaexperiences or events, we see the potential and we tions including grocery and universities across the look forward to connecting with customers in new St. Louis metropolitan area. ways in the year ahead,” continues Connor. rootberry’s new headquarters is nearly 9,000 The expansive kitchen provides new opportunities square feet and features two dining rooms, a bar, for rootberry’s culinary team, including its first coltwo patio spaces and training space. rootberry is laboration dishes with del Carmen Foods available using the space not only for preparation and pronow for purchase on rootberry’s website. The new duction but for its corporate headquarters. The new collaboration dishes include a Black Bean Hummus, location allows for collaboration including its most a tangy, velvety-smooth take on traditional hummus recent new product launch in partnership with St made with del Carmen black beans, and a Cuban Louis-based del Carmen Foods.

Beans and Rice entrée made with del Carmen black “This restaurant was impeccably designed in 2016 beans and locally-grown, long-grain rice. and the building inspires us to elevate our work, “We’re very excited for the partnership with del build our culture, and expand throughout the St Carmen Foods and we are exploring more collaboLouis region – and ultimately across the Midwest,” ration opportunities with them and other St. Louis says Marc Connor, co-founder of rootberry. “The inbrands,” says Connor. “Everything we do, whether terior design of the building will remain the same, we’re collaborating with food companies, partnering and suits the rootberry brand with its red accents for distribution, supporting non-profits or serving and warm industrial style.” our customers directly, is tied to one simple idea – In the dining room, several half walls break up the to plant seeds daily that can lead to better living on seating of booths and low-tops. Massive gray upholan individual and community level. Today our doors stered chandeliers hang from the ceiling along with are open to partnerships, and in the near future we an eye-catching fixture of clustered filament bulbs intend to open our physical doors to serve, support that offer a cozy setting. and learn from more people – so we can all enjoy “While there are no immediate plans for on-site more plants, more often.”

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • March 16, 2022

Parkway School District selects teachers of the year The Parkway School District selected its 2022 elementary, middle, high school and the district Teachers of the Year.

Paulo Ribeiro, physical education teacher at Southwest Middle, was selected as the District Teacher of the Year, as well as the district’s Middle School Teacher of the Year.

Kate Jones, physical education teacher at Hanna Woods, is the Elementary Teacher of the Year and Kara Schulte, science teacher at North High, is the High School Teacher of the Year.

All the Teachers of the Year will be recognized at the March 9 Board of Education meeting and on April 25 at Parkway’s Appreciation Evening event.

The elementary, middle, high school and district teachers of the year are selected by a committee comprised of former Parkway district-level teachers of the year. The Teacher of the Year program is sponsored by the Parkway Alumni Association and awards each teacher with a crystal apple and cash stipend.

Image courtesy Normandy Schools Collaborative Kara Schulte, science teacher at North High, was selected as the Parkway School District High School Teacher of the Year.

Northwest Views:

By Dr. Matthew Bialko

Don’t delay important women’s health screenings and checkups As we continue to get back to normal life during a pandemic, it’s time to start playing catch-up on medical checkups and preventive screenings. Routine screening tests play a major part in your annual doctor’s visit -- and for good reason. These tests could save your life by detecting pre-cancerous conditions or cancer in its early, most treatable stages and preventing other serious health conditions from sneaking up on you.

If you’re like many women, you may be overdue for your yearly checkup or recommended health screenings such as Pap tests, mammograms and pelvic exams. The longer people wait to be screened, the greater the chance that a disease is not detected until it is more advanced and may require more aggressive therapy. Delayed screening tests due to the pandemic have, unfortunately, led to higher rates of undetected cancer cases.

Women’s health screenings can help spot potentially deadly conditions before they become life-threatening. You might feel fine, but that doesn’t make screenings any less important. Everybody should be screened for cancer on an age-appropriate basis, regardless of your physical condition or family history of disease.

Here are a few recommended annual checkups and regular screening tests for women: Yearly physical. Your primary care physician can check vital signs such as blood pressure, heart rate, and cholesterol, and recommend tests or screenings that are appropriate for you based on your age and health history.

Well-woman exam. A yearly well-woman visit focuses on prevention of illness and is important to your long-term health and wellness. Your gynecologist will provide a full physical checkup, including a clinical breast exam and pelvic exam, and address any health topics or concerns you may have.

Northwest News

Two St. Louis residents took on 100-mile journey to state capitol On Feb. 27, St. Louis residents Jon Franko and Matthew Porter began a 100-mile run from St. Charles to Jefferson City as part of an event they created called the “Show Me 100.”

These friends came up with the idea to raise funds and awareness for multiple sclerosis because they both live with MS and understand the challenges this disease presents. They started their run at 5 a.m. on Feb. 27 and crossed the finish line in Jefferson City approximately 28 hours later. During their journey along the Katie Trail, they were joined by several guest runners and supported by numerous volunteers.

On March 1, they met with state representatives to advocate on behalf of all Missourians affected by MS including themselves. In particular, they advocated against Step Therapy, which is a process where insurance companies require an individual to try a medication and fail on it before being given approval to use the medication their doctor originally prescribed. To date they have raised nearly $117,000.

“We chose to do this together because there is not yet a cure for multiple sclerosis. It’s important to us that we raise awareness so everyone, especially our state legislators, understand what it’s like to live with this disease,” said Porter. “And since we still have the ability to run, why not take on this challenge to show how committed we are to fight for everyone affected by MS.” ultiple sclerosis is an unpredictable, often disabling disease of the central nervous system. There is currently no cure for MS. Symptoms vary from person to person and range from numbness and tingling to mobility challenges, blindness and paralysis. An estimated one million people live with MS in the United States. Most people are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50, and it affects three times more women than men.

To learn more about the Show ME 100 visit mssociety.donordrive.com. To learn more about MS visit nationalmssociety.org or call 800-344-4867.

Pap test. As part of a pelvic exam, this test takes a sample of cells from the cervix to check for cervical cancer. Cervical cancer and the beginning stages of the disease can be treatable if caught early. Routinely, a pap smear is done every three years.

Mammogram. A breast X-ray can find breast cancer in its early, most treatable stages. An annual screening mammogram is recommended starting at age 40 for women of average risk. Follow-up with sonogram or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may also be recommended.

Don’t delay your important checkups and screenings. Early detection can make a huge difference in the treatment and outcome of many diseases and help you stay in good health.

Matthew Bialko, MD, MPH, is a board-certified OB/GYN at Obstetrical Associates of St. Luke’s, located in Chesterfield, O’Fallon, and Eureka.. For more information on Dr. Bialko’s practice or to schedule an appointment, call 314-576-9797.

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.

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www.hoodsauto.com

8

What’s Happening

March 16, 2022 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

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

Take notice . . .

The events listed in this section are the latest updates as of press time, please check with individual sites for the most up to date cancellations and reschedule info.

EVENTS

March 26: Dinner and dancing

At 5:45 p.m., Centenary United Methodist Church’s Joyful Noise band presents “Letters Home,” a mock USO Radio Show with dinner and dancing to songs from WWII at the American Legion Post 370. Reservations due by March 17. For more information contact cumc-

lamo@gmail.com.

RECURRING EVENTS 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.

Mondays: Choral Group meetings

Arts

Choral Arts Group practices every Monday from 7 to 9 p.m. at Connection Christian Church at 1332 Feise Rd. in O’Fallon. Auditions not required. Ages high school and older are invited to join. There will be spring and fall public concerts. For more information call Marty at 636-5799227, or email concertartsa@ gmail.com.

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: meetings

Workshop

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: singers

A

cappella

All men who like to sing are invited to come sing with us, The Men of Harmony. We practice every Monday night at 7 p.m. at 5500 Parker Road which is the first house on Uthe Lane. We sing four-part harmony a capella (without accompaniment). We sing some traditional songs, as well as show tunes and more contemporary music. We do

perform for the public at various functions. Persons interested can come right on in or for more information call Al at 314-993-6134.

Mondays: Korean War Veterans Association meeting

If you had military service in Korea between Sept. 3, 1945 and the present you are cordially invited to a meeting of Chapter 4, North County Korean War Veterans Association. Meetings take place at the VFW Post 4105 at 410 St. Francois in Florissant on the second Monday of the month, starting at 7 p.m. For more information contact Walter Kaiser at 314-921-2132. For a limited period the Chapter will pay for one (1) year membership for new members.

Mondays-Thursdays: Volunteers needed

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

Tuesdays: Bingo

Florissant Elks Bingo takes place at 16400 New Halls Ferry every Tuesday. Doors open at 4 p.m., bingo starts at 6 p.m. No outside food or drinks allowed per St. Louis County. Food and drinks available for purchase. Maximum 150 players. Must wear mask to enter. Social distancing followed.

Tuesdays: singers

A

cappella

The Gentlemen of Sound are looking for men who like to sing or want to learn. They practice Tuesdays at Lady of the Pillar school at 401 S. Lindbergh from 7 – 9 p.m.

They try to do public events monthly. Always looking for new members. Come by or call Charlie at 314-954-1121.

Tuesdays: Chair Zumba

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

Tuesdays: Celebrate Recovery

Celebrate Recovery Tuesday meetings take place at 6 p.m. with a Saturday Bible Study at 9 a.m. at LifePoint Church at 424 Graham Rd. in Florissant. For more information visit www.lifepointministries. church/celebrate-recovery or call (men) Steve D. at 636634-6582 or (women) Denise W. at 530-417-6151.

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 314-831-5476.

McConnell,

2nd Tuesday Sept.-June: Show-me Stitchers:

Show-me Stitchers is the local chapter of the Embroiderers’ Guild of America. We meet on the second Tuesday, Sept.-June at 6:30 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, 14088 Clayton Road, Chesterfield, MO. Learn needlepoint, embroidery, cross stitch, and more.

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.

Wednesdays: Bingo

Bingo takes place every Wednesday at American Legion Post 338 at 9655 Midland Blvd. in Overland. Doors open at 5 p.m. For more information contact Chairman Ed Hilleman at 314-660-1813.

Wednesdays: Bingo

Life Care Center of Bridgeton, at 12145 Bridgeton Square in Bridgeton, welcome all to Community Bingo every last Wednesday of the month at 2:30 p.m.

Light refreshment will be served. Please RVSP at 314298-7444 with the month you will attend and number of people attending.

Wednesdays: TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly)

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) meets from 6 p.m.

- 7:30 p.m. at St. Andrews United Methodist Church at 3975 N. Hwy 67 in Florissant.

For more information contact Norma at 314-306-4731.

Every Wednesday: Bingo Morning at Florissant Elks Lodge #2316

Florissant Elks Lodge #2316, 16400 New Halls Ferry Rd. in Florissant. Doors at 7:30 a.m., games begin at 9:30 a.m. For more information, call 314921-2316.

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.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • March 16, 2022 Florissant Senior Citizens’ Bingo Clubs: 314-839-7604.

Every 1st Wednesday of the Month: Stroke Support Group

3-4 p.m., Center for Senior Renewal, Detrick Building 1st floor, 11133 Dunn Rd. For more information, contact Jamie Stevens at 314-653-5331.

Thursdays: Bingo

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

Thursdays: Quilting guild

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

Thursdays: 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: Women’s chorus meeting

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 bistate region. Call Marcia at 636-274-0723 for more information or visit www.cityvoiceschorus.org.

Fridays: Fish fry

A fish fry takes place every Friday at American Legion Post 338 at 9655 Midland Blvd. in Overland from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information contact Chairman Ed Hilleman at 314-660-1813.

Every Friday: Our Lady of Fatima #4429 Knights of Columbus Bingo 6:45 p.m., Knights of Columbus Hall, 1216 Teson Rd. in Hazelwood. For more information call 314-731-9330.

Every 3rd Friday of the month: Bingo

2 p.m., Life Care Center of Florissant, 1201 Garden Plaza Dr. For more information, call 314-831-3752.

Saturdays: Yoga

Yoga returns to Calvary UCC at 2501 Hartland Avenue, on Saturdays from 10:30-11:30.

Masks and social distancing

are required in the building and participants should bring hand sanitizer with them. For further information call Angela at 314-801-8594.

Saturdays: Toastmasters meeting

Everyone is welcome to attend Toastmasters Saturdays 9 to 10:30 a.m. at Normandy United Methodist Church at 8001 Natural Bridge Road (across from UMSL). For more info call 314-402-7025.

Saturdays: Free walk-in clinic

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

Saturdays: Clothing sale

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

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

Saturdays: Grief support

On the fourth Saturday of each month, grief support meeting “A Way With Words Ministry” meets at 12:30 p.m. at Community Christ Fellowship, rear, at 121 Williams Blvd. in Hazelwood, 1/4 mile south of Hwy 270 off Florissant Rd. There are a variety of topics monthly. You are not alone. Come help your heart heal with others. For more information call 314-605-3949.

Every Fourth Saturday’s Writer’s Workshop

10 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. at Baden Library, at 8448 Church Rd. For more information call 314-388-2400.

Sundays: Meat shoot

Come and enjoy the meat shoots at American Legion Post 4445 located on 17090 Old Jamestown Rd. between Sinks Rd. and Lindbergh starting noon Sept. 15 thru Nov. 17; and in the spring, Feb. 2 thru March 8 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: Jennings DoDads meeting

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., 314-7413737.

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.

1st Tuesday of Every Month: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group Meeting Meeting to be held at Sarah Care of Bridgeton Adult Day Center 11977 St. Charles Rock Road, Suite 121-124, Bridgeton, MO 63044. Join our Support Group for Mutual, Emotional Support and Education.

You are not alone. For information, contact Deborah Mabrie at 314-291-5210 or Ferd Fetsch at 314-291-3021 Email: dbland@sarahcare.com ferdfetsch@sbcglobal.net.

Every third Tuesday of every month: Grief Support Group sponsored by DePaul Hospital

11:30am-1pm, Maryland Hgts.

Comm. Ctr., 2300 McKelvey Rd. For more information, call 314-344-6873.

Wednesdays: Schizophrenia Group

ACES Support

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 314344-7220 to enroll.

Crisis Nursery:

Committed to preventing child abuse and neglect, the Crisis Nursery provides short-

What’s Happening 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: 314-7683201. 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, 314653-5123.

Nutrition Education:

SSM DePaul registered dieticians can help you make sure your diet is right for you, 314344-6157.

SUDOKU answers from page F-1

9

Christian Hospital Recovery Center: Outpatient mental health and substance abuse treatment for adults, 314-953-8100.

Volunteers Needed at Christian Hospital: Call

314-653-5032.

Nicotine Anonymous

Nicotine Anonymous is a 12 Step Program, free and available to all seeking recovery from nicotine addiction based on principals of AA. Only requirement is a desire to stop using nicotine. Voluntary contributions are accepted. For further info call 314-822-2066 or visit www.Nicotine-Anonymous.org.

CROSSWORD answers from page F-4

10

Sports

March 16, 2022 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Sports you see with Gary B...

Hoots sign two players from local colleges to roster for 2022 The O’Fallon Hoots play their home baseball games at CarShield Field in O’Fallon and are members of the Prospect League.

The team added an outfielder and a pitcher to their roster recently.

Their first announcement was the signing of Lindenwood University outfielder Bailey Crump for the 2022 summer season.

The 6-foot-3 junior OF played at Missouri Western University this past season. While at MWU, he had a batting average of .255 in the 39 games he played and

he slammed 12 home runs last year.

Also signed was Maryville University pitcher Gavin Racer for the summer season as well.

The 6-foot-5 right-handed pitcher attended Pacific High School, where he helped lead a team that won eight of their last 11 games his senior year. In eight appearances as a pitcher, Racer threw 32.1 innings, and struck out 50 batters, while posting a 3.03 earned run average.

Manager Matt Brown along with assistant coaches Scott Brown, Drake Salsman and Jonathan Turek are excited on the acquisitions. * Opening day is not that far away UMSL swim team has several participants receive honors The University of Missour-St. Louis men’s and women’s swimming team had five swimmers earn All-American status in the four-day NCAA Division II National Championships in Greensboro, North Carolina.

The UMSL women’s 200 freestyle relay team of Serena Brizard, Franziska Hauptmann, Ava Boehning, and Kate Nelson earned Honorable Mention All-America honors by finishing 16th.

Zara Konstapel was named a First Team All-American for placing seventh in the Women’s 100 Breaststroke final.

The UMSL men’s 400 freestyle relay team finished 17th in the final event of the NCAA DII Championships held Saturday evening. Jon Osa, Guillem Masjuan Roca, Austin Stevenson, and Aiden Clark were 15 hundredths of a second from placing 16th.

The UMSL women’s swimming team finished with a team score of 14 points to place 30th in the NCAA DII National Championships. * A great trip with super results Men’s basketball at UMSL move up in tourney play The 5-seed University of Missouri-St. Louis men’s

basketball team upset the host and top seed, Walsh University, in convincing fashion Saturday night in the NCAA Division II National Tournament Midwest Region.

UMSL went off in the first half, scoring 50 points, and cruised to the 87-58 victory. It was the Tritons second win over Walsh this season, with the first being the very first game of the season at home, 80-76.

The Tritons (26-6) were down by two points when Walsh (24-7) fouled Jose Grubbs on a three-pointer with 16:55 to play in the first half. Grubbs knocked down all three free-throws to put the Tritons up by one.

It was all UMSL after that.

With 20 seconds left before the half, Grubbs quieted the home crowd with an and-one to give the Tritons a 50-27 lead at halftime.

The Tritons went on to outscore Walsh 37-31 in the second half and complete the 87-58 upset.

Jose Grubbs led all scorers with 19 points. Yaakema Rose Jr. recorded a double-double with 18 points and 12 rebounds. Marty Jackson scored 12 points. Shane Wissink and Marquis Collins both knocked down three triples. Wissink scored 11 points while Collins finished with nine points.

The Tritons have won 12 games in a row. The UMSL record for consecutive wins is 13. The Tritons are also one win away from tying the most wins in a season set two years ago.

The win advances UMSL to the Midwest Region Final against 3-seed Hillsdale College on 3-14 at 7 p.m. in North Canton, Ohio. * Bring it on

Gary Baute, a St. Louis native, may be educated in business but he lives and breathes sports. As a fan or an athlete, Gary is all sports all the time. He hosted a radio sports program on KFNS, emceed the River City Rascals’ inaugural season, among many other activities. I am currently hosting a Health show on 97.1 FM, ‘Prime Time Health’ www.PrimeTimeSTL.com. It broadcasts Saturday nights at 8 and Sunday mornings at 9.

www.mycnews.com • Community News • March 16, 2022

Recipe: Make your St. Patrick’s Day spread green with envy

F

reshen up your St. Patrick’s Day menu with easy, light sandwiches inspired by the traditional color of the festivities. These open-faced noshes can be perfect for lunch, snack time or even as an ap-

petizer for get-togethers with friends and family.

Layered with a smooth cream cheese and mozzarella mixture then topped with crisp cucumber and a stem of green bell pepper, these St. Patrick’s Day

Sandwiches are easy and cute, which makes them a fan favorite at nearly any green gathering. They’re also sprinkled with lemon juice to add a little acidity and create a nice, light bite.

Directions:

Place three cucumbers on each “shamrock,” one on each “leaf.” Use green pepper slice as stem. Place cilantro leaf on top of each sandwich.

Feature

F-1

– SUDOKU –

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

St. Patrick’s Day Sandwiches Yield: 8 sandwiches

Ingredients: 8 ounces plain cream cheese spread, softened 1 cup finely shredded mozzarella cheese salt 4 English muffins 24 slices cucumber 8 thin slices green pepper fresh cilantro leaves lemon juice lemon slices, for garnish (optional) arugula

In bowl, mix cream cheese spread, mozzarella cheese and salt well.

olive oil (optional)

Split English muffins in half. Cut each muffin half into shamrock shape.

lemon juice (optional)

Spread cheese mixture over each muffin half.

Sprinkle sandwiches with lemon juice and add lemon slices, for garnish, if desired.

For more festive recipes and ideas at Culinary.net.

SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 9

Cross-pollination between Broadway and the big screen

C

Movie:

By Steve Bryan

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

ross-pollination cal was adapted for the screen with between movie stars John Travolta, Christopher studios and live theater proWalken and Michelle Pfeiffer in the ductions has been around for a long cast. Travolta even got into drag time. Case-in-point: “Harry Potter to play Tracey Turnblad’s mother. and the Cursed Child,” a stage play Wearing a glittery red-and-gold set in the magical universe created gown, he fearlessly got on stage for by author J.K. Rowling. The story the big dance finale. Travolta was was set 19 years after Harry, Hermigreat in the role, but there was still one and Ron grew up and had famsomething unforgettable about Harilies. Harry and wife Ginny named ris Milstead in Edna’s house dress. one of their sons Albus Severus after In 1993, Robin Williams starred two brave Hogwarts wizards but, in “Mrs. Doubtfire,” a funny, someunlike his parents, Albus was sorted times-edgy comedy, about a diinto Slytherin House and dealt with vorced father. Williams played the pressure of being his famous fa- “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child”photo courtesy Sonia Friedman Productions, Colin Callender and Harry out-of-work voice-over artist Danther’s son. iel Hillard who had a childlike spirPotter Theatrical Productions Late last year, director Chris Coit. Separated from his wife and lumbus, who directed the first two “Harry Pot- for instance, director John Waters achieved a children, Hillard impersonated an English ter” films, said he wanted to film a big screen theatrical trifecta with “Hairspray,” a funny housekeeper to be closer to his children. The adaptation of “Cursed Child” with original movie starring Harris Glenn Milstead, who film was adapted for the Broadway stage, but stars Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Ru- was better known as cross-dressing diva Di- no actor could give it the same heart and enpert Grint because they were now the same age vine. In the original film, Waters cast Milstead ergy that Williams did. To be honest, online as their characters in the play. That would be in two key roles: Edna Turnblad, the mother of stills of actor Rob McClure in drag were rather a brilliant move on Warner Bros. part to bring Tracy Turnblad (Ricki Lake), and TV station frightening. together the original cast and the fresh-faced owner Arvin Hodgepile. Critics praised MilOn another note, time will tell if the talented young people playing their children. It could stead’s performance, but he passed away a few Beanie Feldstein fills Fanny Brice’s shoes as well weeks after the film premiered. even expand the franchise. as Barbara Streisand did in the Broadway reIn 2002, “Hairspray” was adapted for the vival of “Funny Girl.” Feldstein was outstandWith its “Dream Team” casting, a “Cursed Child” film would be sensational, but that Broadway stage with the hilarious Harvey Fi- ing in 2019’s “Booksmart,” so she does have the hasn’t been the case for other films. In 1988, erstein as Edna Turnblad. In 2007, the musi- talent to own that role.

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Feature

COLLECTIBLES

March 16, 2022 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

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Feature

March 16, 2022 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

Yeggs

John Hanna

Crossword: The Oscars

‘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

By Cindy Moore

Gasbag T

o say that the price of gas has increased would be an understatement. That’s like me saying my stomach has “inched” up after binge eating during the holidays. In reality, I had to attach an additional measuring tape to the first one to get an accurate reading.

So let’s talk facts: the price of gas has doubled compared to a year ago and it’s expected to keep rising – prices have literally exploded! (Oopsie, never say explode when talking about gas!)

The time has come to take drastic measures (Especially when measuring my paunch. I’ve run out of extra tape measures). Gas conserving is now in order.

I went to the service station the other day and tried to make a purchase. The line stretched around the block, not for the pumps, but for the loan agent.

I finally made it to his desk.

“Hello,” he said. “Isn’t it a lovely day?”

“What’s so lovely about it?” I barked. “Gas is so expensive I had to walk here to buy a gallon to walk it back to my car.”

“Well from the looks of that belly you’re toting you could use a good walk,” he sneered.

Then the dollar signs shown in his eyes as he rubbed his hands together, “As I was saying…a lovely day! Now then, what kind of collateral can we expect from you for today’s purchase?”

“Collateral? I just need a gallon,” I held up my little red jug to show I was serious.

“Right. Now for that much, we’ll require the deed to your house or your soul, whichever is of most value.” He eyed me up and down then said, “I’m going to pass on your soul and go for the house. You’ll need to sign this stack of documents and then we’ll get that container topped off for you. Oh, and until the paperwork is approved, I’m going to need your wedding ring as a deposit; provided it’s real gold and not aluminum.”

I stormed out of his office with my little red jug and aluminum ring. I didn’t need that kind of abuse; besides my birthday was coming up.

I’ll request a gallon of liquid gold, giftwrapped of course.

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

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

ACROSS 1. “In the Hall of the Mountain King” composer Edvard ____ 6. Marlboro debris 9. *Academy Award ceremony audience sound 13. Botch 14. Sigma ____ fraternity 15. Ten million, in India 16. Embryo sacs 17. Literary “even” 18. Tax evader’s fear 19. *Most nominated streamer in this year’s Oscars 21. *Most-nominated Black actor in Oscar history 23. Opposite of yang 24. Lard cousin 25. *Milk ___ movie snack 28. Poetic source of Norse mythology 30. 2020 demographic event 35. Arrival times, acronym 37. Baseball points 39. Camelot to King Arthur 40. Actress Campbell 41. *Where Oscar-winner “Slumdog Millionaire” was set 43. Not in favor 44. *What Halle Berry did when she won an Oscar in 2002 46. Jet black 47. Lively 48. Paid killers (2 words)

50. Upon 52. Rally repeater 53. Sweet-talk 55. Not outs 57. *Total Oscar nominations for “The Power of the Dog” 60. *One of this year’s Oscar hosts 64. Exotic juice flavor 65. *Jamie Foxx won an Oscar in 2005 for this flick 67. Bizet’s “Carmen,” e.g.

68. Off kilter 69. *1942’s “Holiday ____,” Oscar winner 70. Admit (2 words) 71. Afterward 72. And so on acronym 73. Took the Kool-Aid DOWN 1. J. Edgar Hoover’s man 2. Ice on a window 3. Antonym of “is” 4. Enlighten 5. Puck stopper 6. Kilimanjaro top, e.g.

7. Pronoun 8. Hinduism follower 9. *”Parallel Mothers” nominee Penelope 10. Prospector’s mother 11. Seed coat 12. Lassie, e.g.

15. Type of horse gait 20. Lemur from Madagascar

22. European Economic Community 24. Playground attraction 25. *”Belfast” nominee, “Shakespeare in Love” winner 26. First cradles 27. Lifeboat support 29. *Denis Villeneuve’s sci-fi nominee 31. Type of tide 32. Not so crazy 33. Extremist 34. *”King Richard” nominee, once a fresh prince 36. Give an impression 38. Land of Israel 42. Shenanigan 45. Remove claws 49. Presidential election mo.

51. Waiting on the phone (2 words) 54. Eagle’s nest 56. Like the Incredibles 57. Backside 58. Boat track 59. Not odd 60. Update, as in a FitBit 61. Formerly Facebook 62. *Julia Robert’s 2001 Oscar-winning role 63. Colonel or captain 64. Gangster’s gun 66. ____ eater or ____ hill SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 9