May 19, 2021
Life returns to the Arch
Around Town
COMMUNITY VOICES By Rick L. Stevens. Pg. 2 Operation Food Search distributes one millionth child’s meal. Pg. 3
School St. Louis Community College student works to keep a promise. Pg. 7
Special Section Senior Living. Pg. 6-7 In addition to physical fitness, education and summertime fun for in-person visits, Gateway Arch National Park will include virtual activities.
Submitted photo
Features (FLIP)
As the country begins to reopen, Gateway Arch National Park looks to a summer full of activities and visitors By Charlotte Beard More businesses and attractions are reopening to the public for in-person visits, and Gateway Arch National Park has added itself to that list. In addition to physical fitness, education and summertime fun for in-person visits, the park will include virtual activities. “We welcome our park neighbors and outof-town guests to the Gateway Arch for safe and fun park experiences,” stated Pam Sanfilippo, Program Manager, Museum Services & Interpretation for Gateway Arch National Park. “We have new virtual programs and other special events that celebrate history and nature and are suited for all ages.” Sanfilippo shared that the park’s closing last year before graduating to reduced capacity in June did not put their funding in jeopardy due to Gateway Arch National Park being a federal agency; however, there was some impact to the national park’s partners. “The financial impact on our partners, BiState Development, which operates the Tram Ride to the Top, our cooperating association
that operates the gift shop, and the Arch Café, all suffered with direct loss of revenue,” stated Sanfilippo. “We worked together to reduce the impact and reopen as quickly as we could with enhanced safety protocols in place. Their operations support the park in many ways, so their losses affect park operations as well. We continue to operate with reduced capacity, so the financial impact continues as we work toward returning to full operations.” Gateway Arch Park Foundation has kicked off reconnecting with the public by producing Sunrise Yoga led by Yoga Buzz at Kiener Plaza – 500 Chestnut Street in Downtown St. Louis. The free Tuesday 30-minute class began May 18 and will continue into October weekly at 7:30 a.m. Weekly pre-registration is required at archpark.org/events/sunrise-yoga; each week is capped at 50 participants. Virtual streaming is available via Facebook Live on the Gateway Arch Park Foundation’s Facebook page. Now through May 28, National Park Ser-
vice (NPS) rangers are leading Saturday and Sunday one-hour St. Louis Riverfront Cruises, highlighting the history of St. Louis and the role the Mississippi River plays. Cruises begin at 1:30 p.m. and ticketing information is available at https://www.gatewayarch.com/ experience/riverboat-cruises/st-louis-riverfront-cruise. In addition to cruises beginning daily at noon and 1:30 p.m. on May 29, Gateway Arch National Park begins its extended summer hours of 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Also on that day, NPS will host Battle of St. Louis Commemoration 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the south reflection pond of the Arch grounds. NPS will help attendees learn about St. Louis’ role in the American Revolution and how citizens of St. Louis defended their village from the May 26, 1780 British attack. Living History volunteers will conduct musket and cannon firing demonstrations. See ‘ARCH’ page 2
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Around Town
May 19, 2021 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com
‘ARCH’ from cover On June 13, the park’s Foundation Friends Advisory Board will host a picnic/ticketed event to raise funds for conservation, education, and community programs. The fundraiser – Picnic in Your Park – invites attendees to spread out across the 91-acre grounds with their blankets and pre-selected four-course or traditional picnic lunch with drinks. Tickets and additional information are available through June 2 at www.archpark.org/ picnic. “Gateway Arch National Park is one of the most unique and beautiful urban parks in the country,” states Susan Brown, Chairwoman of Gateway Arch Park Foundation Friends Advisory Board. “We created Picnic in Your Park to be an event that encourages guests to find a favorite spot and enjoy the view of the Gateway Arch – which by design looks spectacular from every angle.” On June 19, the national park continues its Gateway to the Stars 8 – 9:30 p.m. series which began earlier in May. Each free virtual program in the series airs live on the St. Louis Astronomical Society’s Facebook page (facebook.com/stlastro). According to “Sky Ranger” Rich Fefferman of Gateway Arch National Park the programs typically begin with an educational presentation by an amateur or professional expert in the field and is followed by virtual stargazing at the Gateway Arch,
which consists of a planetarium-style tour of the current night sky, led by Fefferman. Depending upon whether the sky is clear, he states subsequent live or pre-recorded video images are provided by amateur stargazers with the St. Louis Astronomical Society. “Local astronomer Joel Allen is a former ‘Dark Ranger’ at Bryce Canyon National Park, which boasts some of the darkest skies in the United States, if not the world,” stated Fefferman. “The June 19th program, The Lives of Stars’ will discuss the various fates that stars may experience, which can range from destroying themselves in a supernova, dwindling away ever so slowly, or eventually evolving into a black hole, whose gravity is so powerful that nothing, not even light, can escape.” Returning to festivities, On July 3, the national park is inviting the public to celebrate the day 1821-style. More information will be available at facebook.com/gatewayarchnps. “The state of Missouri celebrates its bicentennial this year! Exclaims Sanfilippo. “We will be marking our state’s 200th birthday by taking a journey back in time to 1821. We are currently planning for a safe, special program at the park featuring Living History re-enactors in period clothing. We plan to share more details soon, so check our Facebook page for more information.” The national park’s remaining two summer programs in the Gateway to the Stars series – Astronomy in the National Parks and Kids Explorer Night – respectively take place July 17 and August 14. “The July 17 program will be led by Dr. Tyler Nordgren, who is an astronomer, artist and author,” stated Fefferman. “He is best known for creating vintage-like ‘travel posters’ of the national parks. He will lead participants on a virtual tour of night sky opportunities available in America’s national parks.” According to Fefferman, the format for Kids Explorer Night is still being finalized. However, the program will include the Junior Ranger Night Explorer workshop which Fefferman will facilitate for kids ages five-
COMMUNITY VOICES
Submitted photos In addition to physical fitness, education and summertime fun for in-person visits, Gateway Arch National Park will include virtual activities.
to-12. In addition to plans for another activity, Fefferman will help kids earn a special patch. “What’s great about all of our Gateway to the Stars programs,” stated Fefferman, “is that they are completely free and are a fantastic way for people of all ages to learn about astronomy and space! There is no registration required for these programs, and the programs will air live on the St. Louis Astronomical Society’s Facebook page.” Face masks are required for ages two and older in all Gateway Arch National Park buildings and facilities. For visitors to the National Park grounds, face masks are required when physical distancing cannot be maintained. By Rick L. Stevens
Getting vaccinated is our best defense against COVID-19 We’ve all been dealing with the COVID-19 virus for well over a year now and with the vaccine being widely distributed throughout our region there’s light at the end of the tunnel – but we’re not there yet. Reported upticks in COVID-19 infections that continue here and there across the state are reminders that we all need to stay the course for now. While we all should continue to wear our masks, watch our distancing and frequently wash our hands, the best defense against the virus – for each of us and for the community as a whole – is for everyone who’s eligible for the vaccine to get it. With that in mind, I want to take this opportunity to stress the benefits of getting a COVID-19 vaccine. First off, it prevents you from getting the virus or from becoming seriously ill or dying due to COVID-19. It also prevents you from spreading the virus to others. When you get the vaccine, you are added to the number of people in the community who are protected from getting COVID-19 – making it harder for the disease to spread and contributing to herd
immunity. Getting the vaccine also prevents the virus from spreading and replicating, which allows it to mutate and possibly become more resistant to vaccines. Everyone should understand that a vaccine is a protective treatment that helps your immune system learn how to defend against a virus or other pathogen – without using the virus or risking that it will infect you. We are still learning how the vaccine affects whether people can still transmit COVID-19 to others. It may be possible that a vaccinated person can still carry the virus and infect others, even if that person does not appear to be sick. This makes getting the vaccine even more important moving forward to protect yourself. People with underlying medical conditions can receive the FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccines. In fact, vaccination is especially important for adults of any age with certain underlying medical conditions, like diabetes and high blood pressure, because they are at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19.
You should ask your doctor if you have specific questions about the vaccine and your personal health, or you can call the BJC/Washington University School of Medicine hotline at 314-273-1252 for community members aged 18 years and older to speak to a registered nurse with questions about vaccine safety, side effects or getting the vaccine at all. Anyone 18 years or older can also register for the vaccine through BJC HealthCare online at bjc.org/vaccinate. My family and I have received the vaccine and I encourage everyone who is eligible to be vaccinated. Until next time, make each day count – and stay healthy! Rick L. Stevens is President of Christian Hospital. 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 • May 19, 2021
Around Town
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Missouri American Water to replace 7,940 feet of main in Bel-Ridge Missouri American Water is replacing more than 7,940 feet (1.5 miles) of water main in Bel-Ridge along Natural Bridge Rd. until August. “We are making necessary investments to support our St. Louis County water system,” said Debbie Dewey, president of Missouri American Water. “The community will see enhanced water pressure to customers’ homes and fire hydrants to support our local fire fighters.” Construction will occur on eight streets within the city of Bel-Ridge, including Boston Ave., Elmhurst
Dr., Leeward Dr., Marcella Ave., Ramona Ave., Ranch Lane, Sargent Ave. and Spur Lane until the end of August. Crews will work from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Traffic will be impacted by excavation activities and site restoration activities. While construction is occurring, motorists should use caution when driving in the construction areas and obey traffic signs, detour routes and flaggers. Missouri American Water will provide continuous updates as work occurs. These updates may be pro-
vided via door hangers as well as via Missouri American Water’s customer notification system, which contacts customers via phone, and text, or e-mail based on customer preferences. Customers are encouraged to log on to the company’s web self‐service portal at www.missouriamwater. com to enter their contact information and preferences. Customers who do not have internet access can contact the customer service center at 866-4300820 to update their contact information.
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Submitted photo Pictured (from left) are Operation Food Search team members Lucia Burton, Brooklyn Swyers, Brian Wieher and Melissa Weissler. The pictured bag contains two child meals – one breakfast and one lunch.
Operation Food Search (OFS), a nonprofit hunger relief organization, recently distributed the one millionth child’s meal through its Summer Food Service Program (SFSP). The pandemic created an emergency response need, so OFS started its continuous SFSP service in March of 2020 to provide immediate food assistance for children. SFSP, which is funded by the USDA, ensures that children continue to receive nutritious meals when school is not in session. Each daily food package contains whole grains, a full cup of fruit and vegetables, dairy, and protein. Families can pick up breakfast and lunch, for two days at a time, at any OFS partner location on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Each child can receive up to 12 meals per week. This is the ninth year OFS has managed the free program that typically runs from the beginning of June through the second week in August.
“In a typical summer, we serve 2,000 meals a week, and now we’re serving 20,000,” said OFS Director of Child and Family Nutrition Brian Wieher. “We have worked with community locations – such as libraries and community centers – and flipped our model to do drivethrough, contactless distributions three days a week. We’ve kept it consistent so the community would know they could rely on the food.” Wieher credits strong partnerships with organizations like the St. Louis County Library for making it possible to also provide meals to adults and families through summer meal distributions. More than an additional 800,000 meals and 500,000 pounds of fresh produce were provided at summer food sites to families. “These are all different programs that we’ve brought into the same space in order to be more efficient with our staff and volunteers,” Wieher said.
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Operation Food Search distributes one millionth child’s meal
www.essehealth.com
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Aound Town
May 19, 2021 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com
Northwest Views: Leftovers, etc. has weathered the storm Not only are we seeking a new location for Leftovers, etc., but we will be joined by several other nonprofit organizations with whom we have formed associations. These organizations are veteran-oriented and one works with metropolitan area youth who are in recovery from addiction by providing an outlet to continue sobriety through art. Our goal is to stay as centrally-located as possible. Our need would be a 25,000-plus sq. ft. building consisting mainly of showroom/classroom/office and warehouse space that will bring together several notfor-profit groups who wish to align their individual services and expand their outreach capabilities to better serve the St. Louis metropolitan community. We are asking for your help to reach our goal. If you know of a company who wishes to liquidate property, please contact our organization at 314-455-9424. There is a 100% tax deduction to any individual/company who assists our organizations in this endeavor. So, what has Leftovers, etc. been up to since COVID-19 hit the USA you ask? We have been busy. We have donated more than 1,000 egg cartons to both the Ritenour ? Food Pantry and the Oasis Food Pantry in St. Charles County. We have donated free rulers, pencils, paper, crayons and much more for an organization that takes daycare services to inner-city children whose parents cannot afford traditional daycare. We asked our customer base for, and received quite a few, hand-knitted scarves for an organization that keeps the homeless warm during the winter months; we have donated free school supplies to any teacher who needs items to prepare “virtual” learning kits for their students use at home; we have donated school/art supplies MYCNEWS.COM to an organization that was making kits for 20 developmentally disabled adults and children who were participating in their “virtual” art classes. We have assisted children at a private school who are building “virtual” learning kits for under-privileged
Leftovers, etc. opened its doors at its temporary location at 2065 Walton Road in Overland on Feb. 1, 2020 with a huge open house only to close down on March 14 due to the threat brought on by COVID-19. We remained closed until June 2, 2020 when we began a limited operation designating Saturdays to be our only day to accept donations and allow our clientele to shop freely. During the week, if anyone needs supplies for students, etc., an appointment is made and a staff member meets the customer at our temporary facility and assists meeting their needs. This arrangement has been the norm while we wait out the pandemic to keep our staff and clientele safe. We adhere to all COVID-19 guidelines. While we wait out the pandemic, our search for a permanent location continues. We have been advised that the best benefit for the organization would be to seek a building donation that would house our operation and would provide the building owner a generous tax deduction. The search continues.
WHERE CAN YOU GET Pick up a at all 35 Dierbergs & Schnucks stores in St. Charles County and North and Northwest St. Louis County
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By Sandy O’Dell inner-city students; we received an urgent call from a teacher in the Ferguson-Florissant School District as part of their Vocational School Program and the Special School District, who had 325 children that were going on “virtual” learning and in need of supply kits which resulted in the teacher leaving our temporary facility with a trunk and back seat full of crayons, pencils, markers, lined paper, paper tablets, 84 children’s books, construction paper and more. We are also regularly donating yarn and sewing supplies to Relief Crafters of America whose participants are making fleece booties for homeless shelters, pet beds for animal shelters and hats and scarves for “Hat Not Hate” – a school program that teaches anti-bullying. We donated every plastic egg we had in the facility, as well as game pieces/metal and Styrofoam containers, silverware, books, Kleenex boxes for an egg hunt in support of “Diamonds In the Ruff ”, an animal rescue facility in Wentzville. And we couldn’t have done any of this without the generous donations from the more than 65,000 St. Louis metropolitan area residents who faithfully saved their donations during our shutdown from our Borman location to the temporary location we presently occupy. So, what is next? We continue our search for a permanent location; we slowly begin expanding our weekly operating hours; we begin our outreach programs by presenting Girl Scout workshops and DIY classes for youth and adults alike. We introduce our new programs: Teacher Appreciation Days, Back to School Supply Packs, Monthly DIY Craft Shows and DIY Inhouse classes. And something that is very important to all of us at Leftovers: we bring our students from the Down syndrome Community back to our musical theater program through our Center Stage Performing Arts program. Sandy O’Dell is Executive Director of Leftovers, etc. 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 • May 19, 2021
School
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Normandy schools welcomes two new members to the JEGB The Normandy Joint Executive Governing Board welcomes two new members to the team. William Humphrey and Michael Jones were appointed to the JEGB Thursday in a special meeting of the Missouri Board of Education. In the meeting, the state BOE issued a proclamation allowing the addition of the two new members, whose service on the JEGB is effective immediately. The state board’s proclamation also dictates the JEGB will reorganize and hold elections for leadership within 14 days. “I look forward to working with Mr. Jones and Mr. Humphrey to build upon the foundation we’re putting in place to transform our school district,” said Marcus C. Robinson, Normandy Superintendent of Schools. “Both Mr. Jones and Mr. Humphrey have an established reputation in our community for their commitment to education and youth, and we know our students will benefit from their leadership and
insight.” Margie Vandeven, commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education, thanked Jones and Humphrey for agreeing to serve on the JEGB. “Both William and Mike are well-respected in the Normandy community for their demonstrated leadership,” said Vandeven. “We appreciate the ongoing, passionate conversation had by our State Board of Education about governance in the NSC and the best way to move forward to benefit the students in Normandy.” Humphrey recently retired from his position as a district executive with the Greater St. Louis Area Council of the Boy Scouts of America. A resident of the district, Humphrey previously served for seven years as a member of the board of education in Normandy, and his two children are Normandy graduates. He has been an active member of multiple orga-
St. Louis Community College student works to keep a promise When Annsara Watson graduates from St. Louis Community College this month with an associate degree in general transfer studies, she will be one step closer to keeping a promise. “It feels amazing to know that I am at the first completion step in my goals,” said the 52-year-old nontraditional student. “It only pushes me to work harder to fulfill the rest of the promise.” Photo courtesy St. Louis Community College Although she has tried to earn her associ(From left) Annsara Watson shares a moment with her mother, Karen ate degree since the late 1980s, Watson always Jones. Watson will graduate from St. Louis Community College with an came up short until recently. associate degree in general studies this month. In fall 2019, Watson made a promise to her mother, Karen Jones, 74, a colon-cancer survivor, promise. Karen Jones is glad her daughter is working to that before she draws her last breath, she will have better herself. her daughter’s associate and bachelor’s degrees. “She did promise me that, but I am not holdWorking to keep this promise has driven Watson to achieve academically and shine as a leader ing her to that. I’m just going along with the flow. at St. Louis Community College at Florissant Val- What she does, she does for herself, and it won’t be for me ... it will be for her,” Jones said. “She ley. A retired licensed practical nurse, Watson has adheres to that because it makes her push herself been on the dean’s list since she enrolled in spring more, but I’m not holding her to that with a yard2020. She boasts a 3.6 GPA, is a member of Phi stick. I’m not pushing her, because I may take my Theta Kappa Honor Society and a representative last breath in the next five minutes.” Jones said that if she takes her last breath befor the Student Government Association. She also owns a multimedia business, Dominating Pro- fore Watson reaches her goal, she doesn’t want her daughter to think she has failed. ductionz, LLC. “If I do, I want her to continue to do the things What is even more impressive is the fact that Watson has achieved such success despite being she wants to do before she leaves this Earth,” Jones diagnosed with cervical cancer in February 2008. said. “I’m proud of her. She has been through a “Nursing is my passion. I had originally gone to lot of things that have set her back. She has been college to become a doctor, but I’m so happy that very ill, but she has been determined to go back I chose this field instead,” Watson said. “I believe to school.” When Watson graduated from high school, that everyone has a calling and mine was nursing.” When Watson became ill with her first blood Jones did not think her daughter really applied clot to the lungs, she was unable to do the job that herself. “She met this boy and had a son. She got her she loved so much. “My mind was still willing, but my body could LPN, but now she wants to get her degree,” Jones no longer handle the stressors of the field,” Watson said. “She doesn’t have to impress me and get a degree for me to love her more, but I am proud she said. Earning an associate degree is a steppingstone is doing so well. I’m just amazed at the things she to Watson obtaining her bachelor’s degree in has accomplished and how good her grades are. I business administration and making good on her am in awe at how well she is doing.”
nizations and boards in the area, with a commitment to youth development in his community. Jones served as a member of the State Board of Education from 2011-2020. He served as senior policy adviser to St. Louis County Executive Charlie A. Dooley from 2005-2015. He also previously served as Executive Director of the Greater St. Louis Regional Empowerment Zone and was Chief of Staff and Deputy Mayor for Development for St. Louis Mayor Clarence Harmon. In the 1980s, Jones was a member of the St. Louis Board of Alderman and was Executive Director of the St. Louis Housing Authority. Other JEGB members currently include: • Sara Foster • Anthony Neal • Karen Pierre • Sheila Grimes Williams • Ronald Roberts
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Senior Living
May 19, 2021 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com
2021 air quality forecasting season kicks off as latest ‘State of the Air’ report reveals good and bad news for the St. Louis Region Just in time for daily air quality forecasting to make its return for the 2021 season, the American Lung Association’s latest “State of the Air” report indicates some nationwide progress on cleaning up air pollution, but 41.1% of the population — more than 135 million Americans — are still living in areas with unhealthy air quality. While this is 14.8 million fewer people breathing unhealthy air compared to the years covered by the 2020 report (2016-2018), there is still much work to be done to protect our local communities from the continued
risks to public health resulting from high levels of ozone and particle pollution. The Clean Air Partnership is reminding area residents of the importance of staying informed about the quality of air we breathe, whether it is in a healthy “green” range, unhealthy “red” range, or somewhere in between. For the fifth consecutive year, the St. Louis region escaped being ranked among the 25 most ozone-polluted cities in the U.S. coming in at number 26; however, the area landed in a four-way tie for the 20th spot on the list of most-polluted cities by year-round particle pollution. Rising global temperatures and disruption of both short and long-term weather patterns caused by climate change are reportedly making it harder to protect human health and putting millions more people at risk, including those in the St. Louis region and far too many other cities across the nation. Despite www.SeniorsHelpingSeniors.com/StLouisCentral the three years included in this year’s report (2017-2019) being relatively cooler than those in the previous report, they still rank among the six hottest years on record globally. Here’s a look at the latest rankings for ozone pollution across the region for counties in the non-attainment area included in the American Lung Association’s report:
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Missouri Jefferson St. Charles St. Louis County St. Louis City
D F F F
Illinois Jersey Macoupin Madison St. Clair
D C F D
“Even though it’s encouraging that the St. Louis region stayed off the list of most ozone-polluted cities with more counties receiving a higher grade in this year’s annual “State of the Air” report compared to last year, the data clearly shows we’re far from a clean bill of health for our region,” said Susannah Fuchs, Director of Clean Air for the American Lung Association in Missouri. “While weather conditions do play a significant role in our region’s daily air quality, the dramatic reductions in transportation-related emissions during the pandemic provided a compelling reminder that our commuting choices affect air quality and the health of the region, which we hope to see positively reflected in the numbers for next year’s report.” As the nation continues to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, research shows that reducing air pollution is critical for respiratory health now and in the future, especially for populations most at risk, such as children and older adults, people of color and individuals with underlying health condi-
tions. Given that some of those vulnerable populations are the same ones most at risk from the novel coronavirus, these voluntary measures take on additional significance in the current environment, particularly for the 20.7 million individuals living in counties that received an “F” grade for all three air pollution measures. “As we prepare to settle into the summer months when we’re at greater risk for higher levels of ozone pollution, the Clean Air Partnership is calling attention to the trends observed during 2020 to encourage area residents to remain steadfast in their efforts to take voluntary steps to reduce emissions,” Fuchs added. “These include the continuation of eco-friendly actions like telecommuting and, for those who do begin returning to the office, giving greater consideration to alternatives to the solo commute like the region’s public transit system and ridesharing.” With the air quality forecasting season resuming May 1, the partnership also ramps up its outreach to educate residents of the St. Louis metro area about the health risks associated with poor air quality and the impact of everyday actions on the environment. Signing up to receive the partnership’s color-coded daily air quality forecast via email at www.cleanair-stlouis.com helps to ensure St. Louisans know what the next day’s air quality will be and if they should alter their outdoor activities to minimize exposure to polluted air. Should the forecast call for poor air quality in the form of an “orange” or “red” air quality day, the hope is that people will take specific steps to further reduce emissions. Fuchs notes that actions like combining errands into a single trip, hopping on a bike for short trips instead of hopping in your car, not topping off your gas tank, avoiding vehicle idling or opting for electric vehicles can greatly impact the amount of ozone-forming emissions on any given day and help people across the region breathe easier. Likewise, there are also many other eco-friendly lifestyle changes unrelated to commuting that individuals and businesses can consider to positively impact air quality and improve lung health, including efforts to conserve energy, recycle, reduce waste, reuse items and more. The Clean Air Partnership’s website offers many other tips to help clear the air along with a wealth of information on the health effects of poor air quality. While on the site, people can also sign up to receive the Partnership’s monthly E-Newsletter and the daily forecast in their email inboxes via the Environmental Protection Agency’s EnviroFlash air quality alert system. Additional air quality information and the daily forecast can be accessed by liking the Clean Air Partnership on Facebook, or by following the organization on Twitter @ gatewaycleanair. To access the American Lung Association’s 2021 “State of the Air” report, visit www.lung.org.
www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • May 19, 2021
Still In This Together: Promises kept Last September’s vacation was interrupted by a very rude hurricane named Sally. The residents at the Pensacola Beach complex where we’ve stayed nearly every year for the past thirty plus years had varying opinions on what was actually going to happen, and many of them believed it was going to veer in a different direction or was just going to be a lot or rain. But even rain is a major issue, because drainage in Pensacola Beach is nonexistent, and water climbing ever higher under a car, even a car under shelter in the parking garage, was an issue that John wasn’t willing to stick around to see the ending of, once the condo owner we’ve befriended gave us the okay to leave early with a refund for the days we would miss. Too many days missed, too much disappointment, too special the birthday with a zero I’d be missing in my happy place. I knew John was being smart, but I didn’t have to like it, not one little bit. As we pulled out of the parking lot in what turned out to be a very good decision, he looked me in the eyes and said, “Maybe we will just have to make it back before next September.” And he made it happen. The condo we usually rent from Kathy was just having final repairs finished from the terror that was Hurricane Sally, there was a chance the elevator in the building where we’d found availability one floor up might still be under repairs, and the three-mile bridge from Pensacola was still closed until the end of May. But promises were kept, problems were circumvented, and we found out that April is a lovely time in Pensacola Beach, a bit cool, but sunny and welcoming and serene. Roads were flooded the first couple of days when we tried to make our way to the National Park area beach are we love the most, just a short drive up the road from our condo. It had been a rainy couple of weeks and there is that whole drainage thing I mentioned, but the third day we drove very carefully over the remaining puddles, walked through a foot of water in the parking lot alongside the beach, and made our way past a couple of lone fishermen to a suitably isolated beach spot. We don’t need much these days: a towel for John to lie on as he reads his book, a beach chair for me to sit on at the water’s edge, a bottle of water to share, and we’re happy. No umbrellas, pop-up tents, rolling coolers or music source necessary. The seabirds and surf, sunshine and solitude are perfect. So different from the years when our children were with us. We’ve perfected the art of being alone and being blissful in our solitude. I can’t help smiling at the memories of those years, though; the games played in the back seat of the car on the long drive, the curfews tossed aside so the kids could gath-
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By Vicki Bahr
er with other teenagers at the pool after dark, the new sunglasses and swimsuits purchased to bring along once we had cleared a week from the busy summer schedule. Go Karts and jet skis, jellyfish stings and multiple bottles of suntan lotion. The ‘watch-me-mom’s’ as they worked on their dives from the side of the pool, and images of John tossing them up and over his head into the water of the gulf. And there were always buckets of seashells that made their way home each year as souvenirs. I sat with tears in my eyes as I remembered, and one insistent shell continued to nudge my foot that was dangling at the edge of the sand where the water came to meet me. One imperfect little shell that found its way home with me this April as a reminder of promises kept and dreams continued for another year. It sits on my kitchen windowsill, nudging me still, coaxing a smile, gifting a memory. 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 49 years, she finds that inspiration and wonder are everywhere.
Senior Living
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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What’s Happening
May 19, 2021 • 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 May 31: Memorial Day ceremony
Please join our North County Community in honoring our fallen service men and women at a Memorial Day Observance. This event will be at the Eagan Center in Florissant at 1 p.m. It is an outdoor event at the flag pole and memorial to all service men and women. There is limited seating available but you are welcome to bring chairs and we are handicapped accessible. Masks advised. This event is jointly hosted by the city of Florissant, the VFW, American Legion, Marine 1st Division, Vietnam Veterans of American, Korean War Veterans of American and Boy Scouts.
June 12: Fashion show
Red Hat Society’s Ladies in Red Chapter, an international women’s social society to meet like-minded friends, will host a fashion show. The show commemorates Ladies in Red fifth anniversary and will be held at Marriott Airport Hotel at 10700 Pear Tree Lane between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. For more information please contact the Ambassador/Queen 314-4966625 or email ladiesinred630953@ gmail.com.
August 14: Breakfast event
The Red Hat Society’s Eastern Missouri Queen’s Council will host a “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” event. There will be a formal coronation for all new RHS Standing Proud Queens and will be held at Marriott St Louis Airport at 10700 Pear Tree Lane between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. For more information please contact Council Queen 314-496-6625 or email ladiesinred6309532gmail.com.
Sept. 11: Fundraiser
Operation Food Search (OFS), a nonprofit hunger relief organization, will host Feast for Change at 5:30 p.m. The fundraiser, which commemorates OFS’s 40th anniversary, will be held at Kuhs Estate & Farm located at 13080 Spanish Pond Rd. in Spanish Lake. The farm-to-fork experience includes fresh, locally sourced food, fine wine, and a live auction. Proceeds from the evening benefit OFS’s services that focus on finding solutions in response to the region’s food systems challenges. Tickets are $150 per person and $1,500 for a table of 10. For ticket details or to become a sponsor, call 314-726-5355.
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: TOPS meeting
Come, join and take off those extra pounds. T.O.P.S.=Take Off Pounds Sensibly has meetings on Monday nights at 7 p.m. (weigh in begins at 6:35 p.m.) 9135 Shelley Avenue, Overland, MO 63114. (Entrance is in the back on East Milton). TOPS is a very inexpensive way to lose weight. You may visit a meeting for free. Any questions please call Dan Agee at 314-540-5223.
Mondays: Choral Arts Singers practice
Choral Arts Singers resume practice on Mondays, at 7 p.m. at Transfiguration Episcopal Church, 1860 Lake St. Louis Blvd. in Lake St. Louis. New singers are welcome. Auditions are not required. See www.concertarts.org.
Mondays: City council meetings
City of Pine Lawn holds regular city council meetings at city hall at 6250 Steve Marre Ave. in Pine Lawn on the second Monday of the month at 6:30 p.m. The meetings are open to the public.
Mondays: Workshop meetings
City of Pine Lawn holds regular workshop meetings at city hall at 6250 Steve Marre Ave. in Pine Lawn on the fourth Monday of the month at 6:30 p.m. The meetings are open to the public.
Mondays: A cappella singers
All men who like to sing are invited to come sing with us, The Men of Harmony. We practice every Monday night at 7 p.m. at 5500 Parker Road which is the first house on Uthe Lane. We sing four-part harmony a capella (without accompaniment). We sing some traditional songs, as well as show tunes and more contemporary music. We do perform for the public at various functions. Persons interested can come right on in or for more information call Al at 314-993-6134.
Mondays: 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, start-
ing at 7 p.m. For more information contact Walter Kaiser at 314-9212132. 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: 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 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 636-634-6582 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 pounds sensibly)
(Take
off
From 9:15 - 10:30 a.m. located at John F. Kennedy Center/Henry Koch Ctr., Howdershell Rd. at Charbonier Rd., Florissant. For more info contact Paul McConnell, 314-831-5476.
2nd Tuesday Sept.-June: Showme 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 Lu-
theran 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 314-298-7444 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 314-921-2316.
Bridgeton Trails Library Branch Programs:
3455 McKelvey Rd., St. Louis, 314994-3300. Story Time: Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. 9 months to 2 yrs. Room 1 (Lap Time); Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. Ages 3–5. Room 2; Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. Ages 3–5. Room 1.
Florissant Senior Citizens’ Bingo Clubs: 314-839-7604. Every 1st Wednesday of the Month: Stroke Support Group 3-4 p.m., Center for Senior Renewal, Detrick Building 1st floor, 11133 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: checks
Blood
pressure
Free blood pressure checks monthly at Life Care Center of Florissant at 1201 Garden Plaza Dr. (off Parker Rd.) in Florissant every third Thursday of the month. Call 831-3752 for more information.
Thursdays: meeting
Women’s
chorus
Every Thursday City Voices Chorus, a women’s chorus singing four-part a cappella harmony, meets at Church of the Good Shepherd at 1166 S. Mason Rd. in St. Louis. Members come from the entire bi-state region. Call Marcia at 636-274-0723 for more information or visit www.cityvoiceschorus.org.
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 314-8018594.
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 314402-7025.
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
www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • May 19, 2021 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: meeting
Jennings
Do-Dads
The Jennings Do-Dads hold meetings every third Sunday of the month (except June which is the second Sunday and no meeting in December) at 1 p.m. at Classics Bar & Grill at 11601 West Florissant Avenue. Those interested in membership are invited to attend. For more information visit www.jenningsdodads.org.
CHURCH Tuesdays & Thursdays: Chapel of the Cross Lutheran Church GriefShare Support Group Tuesdays from 2 - 4pm and Thursday from 6:30 - 8:30pm, 11645 Benham Rd., 314-741-3737
HEALTH Every Mon. & Tues.: Healthy Meal Replacement (HMR) Program Orientation
Mondays: 6–7pm Tuesdays: Noon– 1pm SSM DePaul Wellness Center. Attend a free orientation to learn: the Five Success Variables needed to lose weight, different diet options avail-
able 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 121124, 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.
Center, 12303 DePaul Drive. Radiation OncologyBridgeton. Attend a great makeup session sponsored by the American Cancer Society. A licensed cosmetologist teaches a session of scarf tying, shows a parade of hats, and provides each participant with a makeup kit. Light refreshments are served. Info: 314-344-6090.
SilverSneakers Senior Wellness Program at the Maryland Heights Centre
A fun, energizing program that helps older adults take greater control of their health by encouraging physical activity and offering social events. A Silver Sneakers membership includes access to the city’s Fitness Centre with stateof-the-art fitness equipment and circuit training. Membership is available at little or no cost through your health plan. To find out if you are eligible, visit www.silversneakers.com or call 314738-2599.
Wednesdays: ACES Schizophrenia Support Group
Smoking Cessation Classes:
Sundays: Alcoholics Anonymous Group 109
SSM DePaul Wellness Center:
11th floor conference room at Christian Hospital, 10am, 11133 Dunn Road.
Classes available on strength training, nutrition and smoking cessation, 314344-6177
Diabetes Basics:
Free Mammogram Screenings:
6:30 - 7:30pm, 314-839-3171.
314-344-7024 for info or 314-344-7220 to enroll.
Crisis Nursery:
Committed to preventing child abuse and neglect, the Crisis Nursery provides short-term, safe havens to children, birth through age 12, whose families are faced with an emergency or crisis. Care is available year-round and serves families throughout the greater St. Charles region. 24-hour helpline: 314-768-3201. Or 636-947-0600, www. crisisnurserykids.org
Center for Senior Renewal:
Day treatment programs for older adults dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, loss and early signs of dementia, 314-653-5123.
Nutrition Education:
SSM DePaul registered dieticians can help you make sure your diet is right for you, 314-344-6157.
Christian Center:
Hospital
Recovery
Outpatient mental health and substance abuse treatment for adults, 314953-8100.
Volunteers Needed at Christian Hospital: Call 314-653-5032 Nicotine Anonymous
Nicotine Anonymous is a 12 Step Program, free and available to all seeking recovery from nicotine addiction based on principals of AA. Only requirement is a desire to stop using nicotine. Voluntary contributions are accepted. For further info call 314-822-2066 or visit www.Nicotine-Anonymous.org.
Look Good…Feel Better
SSM Cancer Care at DePaul Health
Free ongoing 8-week sessions, 866-SSM-DOCS to register or for more information.
SSM Health Care free mammogram screenings to women who have no health insurance. Appointments at 300 First Capitol Drive in St. Charles and SSM St. Joseph Hospital West, 100 Medical Plaza in Lake Saint Louis, 636-947-5617
Speaker’s Bureau:
SSM speakers available for organizations, clubs, community and church groups for up to one hour free of charge, 636-949+7159
ONGOING SUPPORT GROUPS Sundays: Support Group for Women Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse
6:30 - 8pm, 7401 Delmar Ave. in University City, 314-993-5421.
First and Third Tuesdays: Support Group for Women Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse 12:30 - 2 p.m., 320 Forsyth Blvd., Clayton, 314-968-3477.
Third Saturdays: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group
At Delmar Gardens North, 4401 Parker Rd., Florissant, 9 a.m., 314.355.1516, Helpline 800-272-3900
Last Saturdays: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group: Mother of Good Counsel Home, 6825 Natural Bridge, St. Louis, 10:30am 314383-4765
Last Tuesdays: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group
What’s Happening
9
Missouri Veterans Home, 10600 Lewis & Clark, St. Louis, 1 p.m., 314-340-6389
12075 Dorsett Road, Maryland Heights, 7:30 – 9 p.m., www.Nar-Anon.org
Wednesdays: Weekly Cancer Survivor’s Support Group
Thursdays: Grief Share Support Group
12 Step Support Group for Women Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse:
Mondays & Thursdays: Breathe/ for people with pulmonary disease
Wednesdays: New Choices NarAnon Family Group at Zion Lutheran Church
Wednesdays: STEPS Schizo-phrenia Support Group
SUDOKU answers from page F-1
CROSSWORD answers from page F-4
H.W. Koenig Medical Building at SSM St. Joseph Hospital West, 3 - 4:30pm, free, 636-755-3034
Meets in 4 locations in the metro St Louis area. Information: metrostlouissia@gmail.com.
Church of the Nazarene, 1309 N. Elizabeth Ave., Ferguson 6:30 - 8pm, leecedra@sbcglobal.net
Graham Medical Center, 1150 Graham Rd. Suite 104, 11am - 12pm, $30, 314953-6090
6:30-7:30pm, 314-839-3171.
10
Sports
May 19, 2021 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com
Sports you see with Gary B... Lindenwood baseball team on a roll The No. 11 Lindenwood University team is 31-7 and picked up its second win at the GLVC Tournament, with a 10-2 victory over Southern Indiana who is 23-19. The Lion’s Tyler Cassmeyer earned the starting nod in the team’s contest on recently pitching 5.1 innings
of shutout ball, and striking out four. Kyle Hentis came on in relief to the tune of 1.1 scoreless innings and two strikeouts. Logan Katen tossed the final 2.1 innings of the game for Lindenwood, allowing two earned runs, and striking out a team-high five. The Lions and Screaming Eagles traded scoreless frames for the first two innings; however, with Lindenwood going ahead, 1-0, on a wild pitch that scored Austin Schmitt. In the top of the fifth, the Lions added another run on a Will Lanxon groundout to the second baseman, bringing in Schmitt for his second run scored. A pair of Southern Indiana errors in the top of the sixth extended the Lindenwood lead to 4-0, on runs from Karter Schulte and Alex Gauspohl. The final of the Lindenwood scoring came in the seventh inning, a frame that witnessed the team break out offensively, and pour on six runs. Beau Collier kicked off the run parade for the Lions with a single to shortstop alongside an RBI single from Schulte. A Screaming Eagle error, a wild pitch, and a groundout to the USI shortstop finished the scoring for the team. * Great tourney ball Hoots sign three local players The O’Fallon Hoots are members of the Prospect League, playing in the West-Prairie Land division and began play in O’Fallon in May 2020 after relocating from Hannibal, Missouri following the 2019 season. Pitchers Trent Glidewell and Mason Palmier along with infielder Nick Hofmann have signed contracts with the team The O’Fallon Hoots, members of the
Prospect League, today announced the signing of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville right-handed. Glidewell throws from the right side and in 41-innings pitched he tossed a 1.19 ERA for Goreville HS in 2019. The Class 1A all-state pick and MVP of the BDC West conference kept opposing hitters at a .143 average while striking out 75 and only allowing 21 hits. Missouri Baptist University’s right-handed pitcher Palmier is from Ballwin has posted a career 2.93 ERA in two years with MO Bap. Previously, at Hutchinson Community College, the 6’3” athlete collected 30 Ks in the 2018 season. Hofmann in his sophomore year at Maryville University, started 11 games in a shortened 2020 season for the Saints, collecting seven hits with one of the team’s two triples. He also led the team with five steals on five attempts and in the 2021 season so far, Hofmann has posted a .748 OPS in 25 games. Go to www.OfallonHoots.com to get more details. * Ready to strut their stuff May 27 O’Fallon will have baseball at CarShield Field The Hoots will officially start their season next week at their home stadium with a group of talented collegians. Go to www.OfallonHoots.com to get more details. * Many talented athletes 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 • May 19, 2021
Recipe:
May is National Mediterranean Diet Month
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.
Dessert Nachos Servings: 6 Modified from eatingwell.com
B
ake cinnamon tortilla chips until crispy, then top with yogurt topping and berries. This easy recipe boasts fiber, protein and antioxidants with just a few ingredients.
Ingredients
3 1 2 1/8 ¾ ¾ 1 1/8 3 2 1
(8 inch) whole wheat flour tortillas tablespoon butter, melted teaspoons sugar teaspoon ground cinnamon cup fat free Greek yogurt, plain cup frozen light whipped dessert topping, thawed teaspoon vanilla teaspoon ground cinnamon cups fresh raspberries, blackberries and/or strawberries tablespoons sliced almonds, toasted tablespoon grated semisweet chocolate
Directions: Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. In a small bowl, stir
together yogurt, dessert topping, vanilla, cinnamon. Cover and chill while preparing tortillas.
Lightly brush both sides of each tortilla with melted butter. In a small bowl, stir together sugar and 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon; sprinkle over tortillas. Cut each tortilla into 8 wedges; arrange
on two ungreased baking sheets. Bake for 5 to 8 minutes or until crisp. Cool completely. To serve, divide tortilla wedges among six dessert plates. Top with berries and yogurt mixture. Sprinkle with almonds and grated
For more info on the Mediterranean diet, visit www.choosemyplate.gov
SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 9
Tiffany Haddish and Billy Crystal bond in ‘Here Today’
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.
In the business world, a precept called “The Law of Diminishing Returns” often comes into play. If, for example, eight workers in an office setting are highly efficient, adding two more workers to the mix might actually decrease production. In “Here Today,” it’s obvious that law applies to acting as well. Stars Tiffany Haddish and Billy Crystal are consistently funny performers, but putting them together in this comedy/drama dilutes their considerable efforts. Crystal plays Charlie Berns, a long-time writer for a sketch comedy show that looks suspiciously like a “Saturday Night Live” knockoff. Charlie has been in the writer’s room for more than 40 years, but, despite his talents, some of the younger staff members think he should retire. The longtime comedy writer also is working on a book about his family, but he’s having memory issues that slow his progress. One afternoon, Charlie meets Emma Payge (Haddish), a singer whose boyfriend idolizes Charlie’s comedy writing and won a private lunch with him. To annoy her significant other, Emma steals the invite and joins Charlie at the table. Unfortunately, Emma’s seafood
Lindsey (a wonderful Audrey Hsieh). The relationship between Charlie and Emma actually is believable since Crystal doesn’t make their relationship physical or romantic. Emma is honestly fond of Charlie and is willing to stand by him no matter how bad his condition becomes. Crystal does throw in way “Here Today” photo courtesy Astute Films too many subplots, especially the sequences featuring his wife Photo courtesy Bigstock allergy sends her to the emergency room and Carrie (played in flashbacks by Louisa Krause). leaves Charlie responsible for her medical bills. Carrie passed away prior to the start of the This comedy-of-errors forms the foundation film, but Charlie is reluctant to acknowledge of an interesting relationship. what happened to her. Charlie’s adult kids, Haddish and Crystal give it a valiant try but, especially Francine (Laura Benanti), keep him unfortunately, “Here Today” may be gone to- at arm’s length despite the fact that Lindsey morrow from theaters. Directed and co-writ- adores him. Crystal also gives himself a star ten by Crystal, his cinematic efforts fall short turn where Charlie does a tirade on camera due to Anthony Hopkins’ recent Academy while his show is going out live. It’s a bit overAward-winning performance in “The Father.” the-top. Hopkins’ character suffered from memory “Here Today” has so much potential that is loss so severe that he lost all sense of time and never recognized. Tiffany Haddish and Billy identity. Arriving in theaters a few weeks after Crystal have great chemistry that gets dilutthe Oscars with a similar theme, “Here Today” ed through the course of the movie. There’s a looks like an also-ran. good movie in here somewhere, but it will take Still, there are magical moments that light up some effort to find it. the screen, especially when Haddish livens up “Here Today,” rated PG-13, is currently the Bat Mitzvah for Charlie’s granddaughter only available to watch in theaters.
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Feature
ACTIVE BUYER
May 19, 2021 • Community News • www.mycnews.com
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Feature
May 19, 2021 • Community News • www.mycnews.com
Yeggs
John Hanna
Crossword: EUROPEAN CAPITALS
‘Yeggs’ is a comic series about Robert and Bill, two rabbits who have opened their own egg franchise in the Midwest (St. Louis area). We follow their day to day lives, watching as they go about the hectic task of preparing for their one big day every year. Along the way they have adventures filled with fun, comic doings and pathos.
By Cindy Moore
Moore On Life It’s spring cleaning time. No silly, not because it’s spring, that will have to wait until next winter. It’s because my motherin-law is coming over to stay for a few days. I know her standards. She cleans under the washer and dryer with a yardstick. To her it’s considered a regular chore. I clean underneath mine too, but it’s considered “moving day”. Every time we move I make sure and clean under them; I’m no schlub. Of course, there’s enough lint underneath to crochet a few dozen pot holders. I find some missing socks--never in pairs always mismatched singles. Hmm, maybe I can crochet matching socks with that extra lint. I find more lost treasures: a button and a few dozen cat toys. I once found a dollar. I guess that was payment for all the laundry I’ve done over the years. Yay! Looks like the price of doing laundry has gone up. When I get the news that my husband’s mother is coming I finally get to those projects I’ve been putting off forever like making the bed. At least those jobs I’ve been nagging my husband to do will get done. The plumber came – finally. The downstairs sink has been leaking for months now. I asked him to fix it when it first started to drip. He claimed he didn’t have the right instrument. “First I need to find a round-tuit,” he says. “Oh, is that a special plumbing tool?” I ask. “Yes, very important. And as soon as I get around to it, I’ll do it.”
Always trying to be a comedian. “Don’t quit your day job!” I yell. “Too late, I’m already retired.” That was months ago. But now there’s a plumber here fixing it. What changed? My subtle urging? “Get that thing fixed or so help me I’m going to bring another cat into this family!” Nope. Bribery? “Sweetie, if you fix that sink I’ll put ice cream on your waffles.” Wrong again, he does that on his own. No, his mama is coming over and she needs a sink that doesn’t leak so it’s urgently being fixed. I’m upstairs carrying a yardstick. “Now what are you up to?” my husband asks. “Gonna search from some missing cat toys and hopefully find one of those round-tuits.”
Spring a leak
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. RPM gauge 5. Have a bawl 8. *”Neutral” capital 12. Paella pot 13. Mend, healthwise 14. Deadly snake of southeastern Asia 15. Multicolored horse 16. Estimator’s phrase (2 words) 17. “The Addams Family” manservant 18. *Northernmost European capital 20. One of British Isles 21. EUR, pl. 22. Ensign, for short 23. Pieces of glass, e.g. 26. Vacuum cleaner alternative 30. “____ the land of the free...” 31. Oxygenate, as in lawn 34. Insane, in Spain 35. Just harvested, e.g. 37. A in IPA 38. Church song 39. Tiny amount 40. Military marksman 42. Fake tooth 43. Devoid of liquid 45. Jet setters’ vessels 47. Address abbreviation 48. Sports stadium 50. Japan’s highest mountain
52. *Capital that hosts Nobel Prizes 56. Sophia ____, Italian actress 57. Genesis twin 58. Curved molding 59. Tequila source 60. Non-permanent office worker 61. Like dental surgery 62. *Capital on a fjord 63. Possesses 64. Big top DOWN 1. Unit of pressure named after Torricelli 2. Post sun-bathing relief 3. Wallace & Gromit modeling material 4. Desire 5. Aussie gas station 6. Desert wanderer’s hope 7. Alexander Alexandrovich ____, Russian poet 8. *Also the capital of European Union 9. James ____ Jones 10. Paddy grain 11. To the ____ degree 13. Like voice after a pep rally 14. “A Fish Called Wanda” actor Kevin 19. Judea, alt. sp. 22. Mama sheep
23. *Bulgarian capital and actress Vergara’s given name 24. Long-necked bird 25. Rocky ridge 26. Pas 27. Hunt illegally 28. Audience’s approval 29. Frolics 32. “Atlas Shrugged” author Ayn 33. Cassius Clay 36. *Balkan capital and 1984 Olympics location 38. Practical joke 40. Canine command 41. Eyeball washing vessel 44. Offer two cents 46. Collusion 48. Away from harbor (2 words) 49. Drifts 50. *London was famous for these pea soup particulars 51. Russian mountain chain 52. Comedian Rogan 53. Shrek, e.g. 54. Not fatty 55. Patty ____ 56. ____ Tzu
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