CN: April 12, 2023

April 12, 2023

Empowering cinema

Features

The 16th annual QFest, presented by Cinema St. Louis at the Hi-Pointe Theatre, will showcase films from nine countries from queer filmmakers

By Wendy Todd

One day LeeAnne Lowery was walking at the gym and noticed someone on the treadmill whose identity they couldn’t readily identify. The next day, that same person was working out right next to them. Lowery’s self-described “neurotic nosiness” took over and they began to fantasize about whether or not this person was “into them.”

This scenario was the basis of the short film, “Treadmill Switcher” by Lowery that will be featured in the 16th annual QFest, presented by Cinema St. Louis at the HiPointe Theatre, which the nonprofit acquired this year. The LGBTQ+ film festival will showcase 26 films from nine countries from queer filmmakers.

The mission of the film festival which occurs May 4-10, is to use the art of contem-

porary gay cinema to spotlight the lives of LGBTQ people and to celebrate queer culture. Nearly half of the films are by women or nonbinary directors.

“It is our wish to share these empowering stories of queer people in a safe and friendly environment at the Hi-Pointe,” said Chris Clark, artistic director at Cinema St. Louis. “Newcomers will experience a connection to community with the audiences at various films and the opportunity to network with visiting filmmakers from all over the country and Midwest.”

The festival will showcase some works by noted LGBTQ+ filmmakers featuring wellknown actors, including “L’Immenista” starring Penelope Cruz and “Monica”, starring Patricia Clarkson and Trace Lysette.

The festival gives queer filmmakers a platform they may otherwise not have in

Submitted photos

St. Louis. Having an event of this nature in Missouri is important to Lowery, who is nonbinary and has been a filmmaker professionally for nearly 10 years.

“Film is an empathy machine, made even more powerful by the theatrical experience,” they said. “LGBTQ+ film festivals in red states are more crucial than ever as the rights of transgender people are increasingly under attack.”

Chris Clark wants people to know that the festival serves as not only an opportunity to highlight creativity in the LGBTQ+ community, but also to affirm the voices and perspectives of the group.

“It is a celebration of a culture and an often maligned, hated and misunderstood community of people,” Clark said. “It is

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The 16th annual QFest, presented by Cinema St. Louis at the Hi-Pointe Theatre will showcase 26 films from nine countries from queer filmmakers.

WCCU hosts art contest for Hazelwood third, fourth and fifth graders

There was a packed house with more than 100 parents, school and community officials attending the winners’ reception of the Hazelwood School District’s Student Art show for Garrett, Lawson & McCurdy Elementary schools.

The reception was held in West Community Credit Union’s Florissant branch on Feb. 25.

“It was incredibly fun and inspiring to display the 50 pieces of artwork in our lobby the past few weeks”, said Stephanie Tyler, West Community Credit Unions Community and Business Development Representative.

Credit Union members and parents were invited to vote for their favorite piece of artwork. The students with the most votes from each school were; Reauna Mullen from Lawson Elementary, Dakari Bryant from McCurdy Elementary and Lucy Pipkin from Garret Elementary.

City of Florissant and the Knights of Columbus to co-host a Food Truck Knight event

The Knights of Columbus Duchesne Council #2951 and the city of Florissant will be co-sponsoring the first Food Truck Knight of the year on April 21 from 5 to 8 p.m. on the lot near the Old St. Ferdinand Shrine located at 50 rue St. Francois.

The trucks will serve until 8 p.m. and performing at the April event until 8 p.m. is the band Wheelhouse.

The truck line up for the evening is: Angie Burger, 2 Girls 4 Wheels, Mann Meats, The Sweet Devine, Canjun Seduction, Tuk Tuk Thai, The Tamale Man, Perfect Panini STL and MrPapas2Go.

Proceeds will benefit local nonprofit charities including the TEAM Food Pantry. Patrons are also encouraged to bring non-perishable food items for collection barrels that will be on site.

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important to gather to celebrate who we are as a part of society and to communally enjoy and focus on the good.”

Lowery echoes Clark’s sentiments and sees the festival as more than an event about films but also as a space to demonstrate and champion inclusivity.

“It’s a chance for LGBTQ Missourians and allies to come together in both celebration and solidarity,” the said. “There are pockets of Missouri that feel comfortable, but throughout the state we’re still worried when we get gas, eat out and go shopping. Coming together to share in queer storytelling in Missouri is absolutely necessary for the health of our community in trying times.”

For more information on QFest, tick-

COMMUNITY VOICES:

ets and a schedule of screenings, visit www.cinemastlouis.org/qfest.

By Dr. Rhonda Key and Dr. Miranda Ming

Educators working with parents create a masterpiece

The parents are the artists and the children are the clay. Parents have the distinct responsibility of developing the shape, consistency and direction of the clay. After those initial days, weeks, or months spent between caregiver and child, children are handed over to educators. Each school has a unique mission, vision, and climate to impart skills and knowledge into the formed shape.

The shape returns to the original artist at the conclusion of each day, indented, firmed and formed by daily experiences. It is then that the artist (parents’) responsibility resumes. The physical acts of love and nurture, positive affirmations, and personal experience between a parent and a child have a huge impact on what is imprinted into the clay. Artists (parents and caregivers) who model de-escalation, emotional stability and joy imprint these positive impressions on their clay. The artists who speak embody aggression, anger, dysfunction and violence contributes to the trauma experienced by the clay (children).

Both educators and artists have the power to mold and shape the clay into a masterpiece or calamity. When the artist is unable to honor the responsibility, the educator must step in.

Educators may not always have the expertise to fulfill the responsibility of the artist and fear failing short in the development of the clay due to the many outside forces, influences, distractions. Meeting the expectations to form a masterpiece requires a concerted effort from various stakeholders. Artist and educators must work together to navigate:

1. Mental health challenges: residues for the pandemic (children and adults)

2. Learning loss of students

3. The Great Teacher Exit: teachers’ shortage

4. High stake assessments

5. Social media

6. Gun violence

The clay is shaped by artists, educators, and

outside forces. How can we create space for every tool to form, shape, and further define the clay, rather than tear it down.

Dr. Rhonda M. Key has served as a teacher and administrator in suburban, rural, and urban school districts throughout her career. Currently, she serves Assistant Superintendent of High Schools, Technology, Safety & Security; Hazelwood School District. Dr. Miranda Ming, Executive Director of Momentum Academy is a devoted educator. She attended Alabama A&M University, but obtained her bachelors, masters and doctorate degree from the University of Missouri St. Louis.

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

The 16th annual QFest, presented by Cinema St. Louis at the HiPointe Theatre will showcase 26 films from nine countries from queer filmmakers.

Submitted photos

‘CINEMA’ from

Affinia Healthcare receives grant to serve immigrant populations in St. Louis

Affinia Healthcare has received a grant for $63,000 from the Lutheran Foundation of St. Louis.

The Immigrant Health and Support Services grant will be used to improve access and utilization of healthcare services for more than 1,200 newly arrived immigrants and refugees by helping these new residents connect to Affinia Healthcare's medical, dental, behavioral health and other providers.

“Affinia Healthcare is grateful for the support of the Lutheran Foundation which allows us to continue our mission of reaching underserved populations in the St. Louis area,” said Dr. Kendra Holmes, President & CEO, Affinia Healthcare. “These funds will allow our new neighbors to access needed

and high-quality healthcare services in a welcoming environment as they transition to their new home.”

Affinia Healthcare serves as the primary care home for most of the newly arrived refugees and other immigrants who often lack health insurance access, caring for over 4,000 immigrants on an annual basis. During 2022, Affinia Healthcare saw more than 700 new refugees and anticipates approximately 800 new arrivals in the current fiscal year (Oct. 22, 2022 - Sept. 30), the majority being from Afghanistan, in addition to other immigrants. The number of new immigrant patients at Affinia Healthcare is expected to significantly increase

Families invited to discover the outdoors at WOW St. Louis outdoor skills day in Forest Park

Are you looking for a safe and easy way for you and your family to discover outdoor adventures? The WOW St. Louis Outdoor Skills Day event is for you. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is joining a host of conservation partner organizations to bring WOW back for 2023. The full day program is designed to give newcomers and first-time campers a chance to explore fishing, canoeing, archery, and more.

WOW is happening April 29 from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. in Forest Park. It’s intended as a comprehensive educational program that allows participants to select from a variety of courses and workshops. The cost to attend WOW is $10 per person, making it an affordable day of family fun. Registration fee includes equipment for all activities and lunch is provided.

WOW offers classes in a variety of outdoor activities, each one with the goal of teaching participants how to enjoy a wide range of outdoor recreational activities while practicing personal safety and outdoor responsibility. Classes are open to anyone age nine and up; however, some classes have a safety age restriction of 11 and up. Littles WOW day camp is available for participants ages five-to-eight.

Classes for WOW 2023 include:

• Camping and cooking equipment

• Fishing

• Archery

• Paddling

The purpose of WOW St. Louis is to empower anyone new to camping and outdoor recreation with the skills, comfort, and confidence they need to take

the next steps on their own. The emphasis is on family participation; however, individuals are welcome, too. The program is part of the WOW National Outdoor Recreation and Conservation School. It’s packed with opportunities to learn skills that will enhance your outdoor experience.

Check-in will be held at the Forest Park Archery Field, next to the McDonnell Planetarium. Parking is available for attendees on a first come, first serve basis. Check in is at 8-8:30 a.m. at the Archery Field. Participants must check in before attending classes. Participants must register to attend WOW.

For more information or to request a registration packet with full details, visit the WOW website at MoStateParks. com/wow or call 314-340-5933. Deadline for returning registration materials is April 22.

WOW St. Louis is sponsored by MDC, Missouri State Parks, Bass Pro Shops, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S.D.A. Forest Service, Wonders of Wildlife Museum, National Park Service, Conservation Federation of Missouri, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Local sponsors include the City of St. Louis, Forest Park Forever, National Audubon Society, Big Muddy Adventures, STLPD Mounted Patrol and Gateway Regional YMCA.

in the next 12 months, as the International Institute of St. Louis, the local refugee relocation agency, anticipates receiving another 800 Afghan refugees and other refugees.

Lutheran Foundation of St. Louis is the grant-making ministry of 74 St. Louis area Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod congregations. The foundation’s vision is to see the church brought into the lives of hurting people and people included in the healing life of the church.

A member of the refugee community receives a vaccination at an outreach event at the International Institute last year.

Submitted photo

Sweet shamrocks celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at St. Luke’s Hospital

St. Luke’s Hospital is celebrating all the Irish Blessings, even the ‘wee ones. St. Luke’s is known as the “baby bunting hospital” because they have been providing themed baby buntings on holidays and special occasions since 1997. Made by nurses and volunteers, the adorable offerings are a sample of the many ways St. Luke’s Hospital provides a warm and caring environment for families.

Trash or treasure? Still In This Together:

We’ve all heard the stories. Some insignificant-seeming little item that’s been housed in the attic for years turns out to be a famous artist’s long-lost doodle, or a priceless piece from a European sculptor worth millions of dollars. I held onto several items over the years that I just knew would “someday” be worth something.

Then, I heard a commercial about cash in hand being better than junk in the drawer and I decided to do something about some unused wedding gifts that I just knew were silver and probably going to buy us an exotic trip somewhere. Turns out nothing was silver; it was all silver plate, and the owner of the store offered to donate the small amount of money to an autism fund that the store subsidizes. It went to a good cause, and that satisfied my “what-ifs” for a little while until I unearthed a couple more “possibly going to pay for the moving company” items in the basement while we were packing.

At least I was being practical about the use for the wealth I was sure we were finding as we went through boxes and repacked everything into other boxes. Kind of the definition of insanity rolled into the wonderful-sounding words “moving to a new home.”

Old comic books that John had been saving in a flimsy cardboard box took me to a comic book store that had just opened up next to his barber. That owner gave me the name of another guy I should contact. Turns out that Jughead and Archie weren’t worth anything other than a few laughs from our kids as they read through them.

Ditto the old View Master slides that had yellowed and disintegrated in a downstairs closet.

I was smart enough by the time I came across the old mushy-walled Christmas stable with the ancient cotton batting for the roof to know that only the ceramic figures of baby Jesus, his family and assorted manger animals were even worth keeping, and my sister was thrilled to have them as replacements for the ones in her holiday set that have been a little too lovingly played with over the years. And how wonderful for us that they had been ours as children and now her grandkids will be arranging them.

That’s when it finally dawned on me that the true value of the “treasures” was in the memories that they held for us. John’s comic books and old baseball cards were

By Vicki Bahr

important to him because they were part of his early years, when all his buddies would get together on carefree summer days to play baseball in the school lot and then read comics when the game was over.

Still, I wondered about the old Lionel train pieces that I found, still packed in their original orange boxes, transformer wires long since broken and brittle, little lead figurines of a mailman and a parson still looking ready to walk down the street, and a lady holding up a baby in a long gown to watch the train as it chugged by. My gosh, the years disappeared as I remembered the fun of starting the train engine, backing it up, moving it onto a side track and setting up the whole little Plasticville city that disappeared long ago.

None of us wanted the few pieces of the set that were left, but I took pictures and sent them to a man who coowns an entire store with his brother that is filled with train engines and cars, transformers and plastic city pieces for sale, and elaborate train sets and villages set up for customers to enjoy. I swear the smell of Christmas morning is in that shop, and the years fell away as I walked through the door, wide-eyed and entranced. He offered to buy the train set and rusted track pieces I had brought, mostly interested in the lead figures which he was going to add to the store display. I recognized a kindred soul as his eyes lit up at the little lady watering flowers and the milkman carrying his milk bottles in a little metal-handled basket.

It reinforced the certainly I feel that the truest treasures are all about nostalgia…the sights and sounds, smells and memories of a sweeter time, days of childhood innocence and holidays that have never been forgotten.

You can’t put a price on those treasures. And I don’t care to anymore.

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 50 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

EVENTS

April 20-22: Book sale

FLIERS (The Friends of the Ferguson Municipal Public Library) Spring Book Sale will take place in the auditorium of the Ferguson Municipal Public Library at 35 N. Florissant Road in Ferguson on April 20 from 4 to 7:30 p.m., April 21 from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and April 22 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, contact Janie Norberg at 314-521-4663 or at jkbnorberg@gmail.com.

April 22: Shred event

The 12th Annual “Free Document Shredding Day” will be held at St. Ferdinand Park in Florissant and traffic will be directed accordingly. The event is from 9 a.m. to noon (or until trucks reach their capacity). All information will be destroyed in a manner to which it cannot be recognized or recreated. All paper will then be recycled. You may bring up to five bags or boxes. Types of boxes include copy paper boxes, banker boxes and shoe boxes. Types of bags include shopping bags, grocery bags and trash bags. No three ring binders, hanging file folders, CD’s, DVD’s or hard bound books. The event is open to the public.

April 27: Shred event

Shred Day! Drive, Drop and Donate takes place from 12 to 1:30 p.m. at Steve Robbins’ Office Parking Lot at 325 Rue St. Francois in Florissant. Help us support T.E.A.M. Food Pantry while cleaning out your old documents. If you are able, please bring a minimum of one canned food item for each bag or box you would like to shred. If you are unable to make it during this time, you are welcome to drop off your documents and canned items throughout that morning.

May 12: Trivia night

Join Youth In Need’s Young Professionals Group for its annual trivia night to benefit Youth In Need at the Bridgeton Recreation Center at 4201 Fee Fee Road in Bridgeton. Doors open at 6 p.m., and trivia begins at 7 p.m. Registration is $200 for tables of eight and includes soda, beer, wine and popcorn. Outside food and drinks are encouraged, just no glass, please. For more information about the event and sponsorship opportunities or to make an auction donation, contact Ashlee Berry, Annual Fund Director, at aberry@youthinneed.org.

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-tofour 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 314513-1674 or cbanaskavich@ jfcs-stl.org.

Mondays: Choral Arts Group meetings

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 636-579-9227, 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: 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 Raoad which is the first house on Uthe Lane. We sing four-part harmony a capella (without accompaniment). We sing some traditional songs, as well as show tunes and more contemporary music. We do perform for the public at various functions. Persons interested can come right on in or for more information call Al at 314-993-6134.

Mondays-Thursdays: Volunteers needed Community Action Agency of St. Louis County is in need of volunteers to stock

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

Tuesdays: 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: TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly)

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) meets from 10 – 11 a.m. at Expansion Church at 11150 Old Saint Charles Rd. in St. Ann. For more info, contact Pat Pinson 314-4281168 or 314-435-5898.

Tuesdays: A cappella singers

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 Kirk at 314-954-7920 .

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 636-634-6582 or (women) Denise W. at 530-417-6151.

CROSSWORD answers from page F-4 SUDOKU answers from page F-1

Sports you see with Gary B...

Ambush finished the season on the road

The St. Louis Ambush play their home games at the Family Arena in St. Charles in the MASL professional indoor soccer league.

The Ambush concluded their 2022-23 Major Arena Soccer League season with a 6-3 loss to the Florida Tropics Sunday afternoon at the RP Funding Center in Florida.

The loss gives the Ambush a 9-13-2 final record. The game was closer than the final score would indicate, as Florida scored two goals against the sixth attacker in the final minute of the match.

The Ambush struck when rookie Zachary Druhe scored his first career goal in the ninth minute. The Ambush drew even on a restart when Lucas Almeida passed to Dom Alvarado, who got a shot past Florida goalkeer Jorge Navarrete in the fourteenth minute of the quarter to knot the score at 2-2.

St. Louis inched back from a 3-2 deficit when Druhe notched his second of the contest with a rocket launched from the yellow line in the tenth minute of the fourth period.

After a barrage of shots that were either saved by Ogaz or blocked by the Ambush defense, the Tropics scored four unanswered goals to get the win.

The 2023-2024 season is just around the corner as the Ambush retool for the future.

For more details, go to www.STLAmbush.com

* Fun and exciting times on the field

Mizzou player coming to the Hoots

The O’Fallon Hoots, proud members of the Prospect League, play their home games at the CarShield Field

in O’Fallon.

The Hoots announced the signing of right-handed pitcher Ben Smith for the 2023 summer season. Smith comes to O’Fallon as a freshman commit to the University of Missouri-Columbia (Mizzou).

The 6-foot-2, 195-pound commit attends Springfield Catholic High School in Springfield, Missouri, making his senior debut for the Fighting Irish this spring, after helping the team to a Class 3 second place finish in 2022.

Smith was a dominant two-way force in 2022, throwing two no-hitters in the district championship and quarterfinal game while hitting over .500.

The right-hander had 98 strikeouts in 61 innings pitched with a 1.14 ERA on the mound, while putting up a .522 BA, 1.487 OPS, 30 RBI, and scoring 34 runs his junior season.

The Springfield, Missouri-native finished with a 7-2 record and earned Class 3 First-Team All-State Pitcher honors as well as Big 8 East Player of the Year.

Smith continues to dominate, posting 10-K’s in six innings pitched and going 3 for 4 with 3 RBI for the Irish in their 10-0 win over Springdale High School on March 30.

* Bring it on

Lindenwood takes National Championship

For the first time since 2019, the Lindenwood University gymnastics team captured the USA Gymnastics Women’s Collegiate National Championship.

The Lions scored a 195.325 and used a strong performance on floor during the last rotation to secure the title.

The squad competed against the Texas Woman, SEMO and Air Force to bring home the trophy.

Top performers included in the Vault–Gayla Griswold, Bars-Hannah Moon, Beam-Jaly Jones and Madison Rush, Floor-Gayla Griswold and All-Around-Jaly Jones.

* Great accomplishments

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.

Recipe: Dairy good practices build a sense of well-being

WithApril marking National Stress Awareness Month, now is the time to reset habits and prioritize balanced meals, sleep and exercise to promote a sense of well-being. Consuming dairy products as part of a healthy eating pattern can build energy reserves, promote a sense of calm, boost the immune system and promote gut health. All of these factors can help battle stress. For more information on dairy’s benefits, visit www.stldairycouncil.org.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Chia Pudding

INGREDIENTS:

¾ cup chocolate milk

2 tablespoons peanut butter

¼ cup chia seeds

DIRECTIONS:

4 tablespoons whipped cream for garnish

6 raspberries for garnish

Measure the peanut butter into a small, microwave-safe bowl. Heat the peanut butter in the microwave for 45 seconds. Remove bowl from microwave. Add the chocolate milk to the bowl and whisk for a minute to combine the peanut butter and milk. Add the chia seeds to the bowl and stir well.

Cover and refrigerate the bowl overnight. The chia seeds will absorb the chocolate milk.

When ready to serve, divide the chia pudding into two serving dishes, garnish with whipped cream and fresh berries. Serve immediately.

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.

JohnLee Hancock’s 2016 biographical drama, “The Founder,” examined the origin of the McDonald’s hamburger chain. Michael Keaton starred as Ray Kroc, a milkshake machine salesman who saw his future in a popular drive-in restaurant.

Two brothers, Maurice and Richard McDonald (John Carroll Lynch and Nick Offerman) created what they called the “Speedee Service System.” Using the principles of production lines, workers made food fast and fresh for their customers. Although the McDonald brothers attempts at franchising failed, Kroc believed he could succeed and grow the company.

“The Founder” came to mind when the Golden Arches recently made headlines.

Jennifer Green of the Belleville News-Democrat reported that the McDonald’s location at 4422 W. Main St. in Belleville permanently closed as of March 31. Additionally, McDonald’s announced that they were temporarily closing their U.S offices ahead of expected corporate layoffs. As Vox.com reported, McDonald’s CEO Chris Kempczinski said they were cutting staff in favor of “growing and opening new locations in the US and Europe.”

I wondered what the McDonald brothers

would think about that turn of events. Although McDonald’s quickly became synonymous with fast food, White Castle received credit for being the first fast food hamburger chain. Founded by Walter Anderson and Edgar Waldo “Billy” A. Ingram, White Castle locations were built with stainless steel interiors to promote a clean and sanitary look. St. Louis has approximately 16 locations and, on a typical night, cars will be lined up in the drive-thru. Over the years, the food choices expanded but the White Castle crews still make sliders for hungry customers.

When my father wanted fast food in the 1970s, he would sometimes go to Burger Chef, a hamburger chain that began in Indianapolis, Indiana. After creating their pat-

ented “flame broiler,” brothers Frank and Donald Thomas opened their first Burger Chef in 1957. Initially, it looked as if the Thomas brothers’ restaurant was gaining ground on McDonald’s thanks to the kid friendly “Funburger” that came with a small toy. Years before McDonald’s “Happy Meal” arrived, Burger Chef introduced the “Funmeal” that came with a burger, fries, drink, a cookie and a toy. Customers could even visit the “Works Bar” to add extra condiments to their burgers. General Foods eventually sold the chain and many Burger Chef locations converted to Hardees.

After going to the Hi-Pointe theater or the Muny, hungry people would stop at the nearby Naugles on McCausland Avenue. Dick Naugle, a former partner in Del Taco, founded the restaurant in Riverside, California in 1970. The popularity of the McCausland location led to late night traffic jams. Entrepreneur Harold Butler later purchased Naugles and expanded the chain to a reported 275 locations, but it was later merged with the Del Taco restaurant chain.

Although Naugles and Burger Chef merged with other chains, McDonald’s is still “grinding it out” as Ray Kroc would say while White Castle will keep making their square burgers for the late-night crowds.

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.

FindmorespringrecipesanddiningideasatCulinary.net.

This creamy dairy treat delivers protein and fiber. Serve it for breakfast or as a mid-afternoon snack. Prep time: 5 minutes | Yield: 2 servings

The ups and downs of fast food

Photo courtesy Bigstock

Moore on Life: Not-so-special delivery

It’sfree advice day and to celebrate the holiday I just made up, I’m going to give you some advice…for free.

If you happen to purchase some big item from a store…say an entertainment center, don’t leave without it. Take it apart and stick pieces of it in your trunk, back seat and glove box then fasten the rest to the roof. If there are leftover parts, call Uber and wedge them into the passenger seat and bribe the driver with a hefty tip and a dozen Krispy Kreme donuts.

I made the mistake of arranging an item to be delivered. Days later I got a call from the transport company.

“Hello. I’m calling to arrange a time to drop off your chair. We’ll be in your neighborhood between Monday and Friday. Will that work?”

“Yes, I’ll be here next week.”

“No, I meant next month.”

“Wait…what?”

“Can we schedule a day you’ll be home if this works out for us?”

“How about Tuesday?”

“Tuesday’s no good. That’s when Subway has two-forone day.”

“I’m confused. How does that not allow you to deliver?”

“Mrs. Moore, you’re not going to be one of those difficult customers are you?”

“No. Sorry.”

“Good. How does Thursday work for you?”

“Actually, I have a hair appointment then.”

“See if you can change it. Hair will come back. I can’t promise we will.”

“Fine. I’ll change it. What time?”

“Sometime in the early morning or mid-afternoon or

LIFESTYLE: Spring checklist for pets

Warmer weather means it’s time to spring clean, get grooming and prepare your pets’ diets to support them through the season.

Keep your furry friends happy and healthy this spring with these tips from the experts at Zesty Paws, an award-winning pet supplement brand:

Give skin and coats a little

TLC: Many pets form winter coats during the colder months to help them stay warm and comfortable then shed the coats in the spring to prepare for warmer temperatures. Some pets may need extra help maintaining their shiny, healthy coats, especially if mats have formed in their fur or if they are breeds that develop a thick undercoat. Professional grooming, athome brushing and regular bathing can all be helpful ways to speed up the process to remove some of the extra fur and decrease the prevalence of dander, dust and pollen that can attach to fur and skin through the season.

Ease back into exercise: The change in weather means more time for outdoor adventures with your pets, but don’t forget to cool down and warm up as you and your pets ease back into the season. Planning for short, leashed walks and timed play sessions can help

evening.”

“That’s awfully vague.”

By Cindy Moore CROSSWORD: ANATOMY 101

“Do I detect sass? That’s a definite hit on my sass-ometer. We just may have to drop your chair off at the nearest interstate off-ramp and believe me, it will be raining.”

“I profusely apologize.”

“Now, let’s try again. Next month between Monday and Friday between daylight and midnight.”

“Hey! I thought you said Thursday?”

“Next month’s looking bad…maybe July.”

“I beg your humble forgiveness!”

“Accepted. Let me suggest you just stay home the entire month of May. Now if you are not there when we come to your house you will be charged a fifty-dollar inconvenience fee. Afterwards, I’ll take the furniture home and let my kids spill red Kool-Aid on your throw pillows and allow Clyde, my Rottweiler, to use the legs as chew toys. Is that clear?”

Never schedule delivery. Happy free advice day everyone. That’ll cost you fifty bucks!

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.

your pets gradually prepare their hips and joints for fun, warm weather activities.

Watch out for pet pests: Once temperatures start to rise, the tiny, creepy critters start crawling. Fleas, ticks and other pests can cause serious health concerns for pets. This spring, make sure your pest control programs are primed and ready for added protection. Talk to your veterinarian about the best routine and products for your pets.

Freshen up bedding and bowls: It’s important to keep a clean environment by scrubbing, sweeping and vacuuming regularly to decrease allergens in the home. When you’re tackling this year’s spring cleaning, remember to put your pets’ bedding and bowls on the list, too. Updating or disinfecting your pets’ blankets, litter boxes, toys and other supplies is a good way to keep them feeling safe and comfortable in the home.

Schedule an annual vet visit: Spring is a good time to schedule your pets’ annual vet visits. Make sure they’re up to date on all vaccinations, get their dental health checkups and re-evaluate nutrition plans.

Find more advice for keeping your pet healthy and happy at zestypaws.com.

ACROSS

1. Emir, alt. sp.

6. Comic book cry

9. *One of 27 in hand

13. Dhaka, formerly

14. Half man, half goat

15. Pressure ulcers, e.g.

16. Type of wrap

17. Old fashioned "before"

18. Do like ivy

19. *Smooth, skeletal or cardiac

21. *"Gray's ____"

23. Gardener's tool

24. Detected by olfactory system

25. Acronym-named sandwich

28. Sore throat voice

30. Retires from military service

35. Steak option

37. Place at angle

39. Double, in French

40. *Certain apple's namesake

41. Fork pokers

43. Heavy metal's Quiet ____

44. *Pelvis bone

46. *Hardened keratin plate

47. Wedding promise?

48. Mandela

50. *Part of eye, not flower

52. Tokyo, formerly

53. Alpine transport

55. Cuckoo

57. *Vein to "go for"

61. *Cell body, axon and dendrite

64. Use the other side of pencil

65. Caviar alternative

67. Mafia's top dogs

69. "The best laid schemes o' mice

an' men gang aft ____"

70. Fuss

71. Modern correspondence 72. Opposite of want 73. Japanese currency 74. Pep gathering

DOWN

1. Annoying pop-ups

2. "Yes, ____!"

3. Beige

4. E-wallet content

5. Resentment

6. Musketeer's sword

7. *Smallest bones location

8. Work the dough

9. Diamond in a cutting tool

10. "Wonderfilled" cookie

11. a.k.a. Indian Lilac

12. Grammy of sports

15. Like a Haunted Mansion visitor?

20. Minimum

22. Endorsement 24. Alfresco

25. *It contains cerebellum and parietal lobe

26. Big Dipper shape

27. Hiker's path

29. *Largest organ

31. Fogginess

32. Speak one's mind

33. *AB+ or B-

34. Vigorous fight

36. Outback birds

38. Dam-like structure

42. Snail trail

45. Like certain Crüe

49. Giannis' league

51. Cup holder

54. Orderly arrangement

56. Popular movie genre

57. J in B. J. King

58. Serve as motive

59. Em's and Dorothy's last name