CN: July 27, 2022 by Community News

July 27, 2022

Strengthening families

Around Town

COMMUNITY VOICES By Rick L. Stevens. Pg. 2 July 30: Affinia Healthcare to hold community health fairs for back-to-school season. Pg. 3. Aug. 19: Florissant and the Knights of Columbus to co-sponsor a food truck event. Pg. 3.

Special Section SENIOR LIVING. Pg. 6

Features (FLIP)

Graduates of the Fathers and Families Support Center Family Formation program attend a graduation ceremony.

Submitted photo

Fathers and Families Support Center’s Family Formation program works to keep parents engaged to foster positive outcomes for children and the entire family By Wendy Todd Research shows that engaged parents are an essential component of a child’s overall well-being, including emotional, social and cognitive development. Positive relationships between fathers and their children can have an effective lifelong impact. Fathers and Families Support Center works to keep parents engaged in parenting to foster positive outcomes for children and the entire family. Last month FFSC hosted its 150th graduation for 29 men and women who partic-

ipated in the six-week Family Formation program. During the program participants learned and developed parenting skills, financial literacy and receive mentoring and information on employment opportunities and career certification resources. They also have access to a Dress for Success closet, where students can receive interview and employment attire. In addition, they are offered a host of legal services including child support modifications, legal visitation and child custody issues. FFSC offers course participants with a graduation ceremony to recognize and sup-

port their commitment to further developing their ability to be effective parents to have a positive impact on their children’s well-being. “Graduation is not only a celebration of mother and fatherhood, but for some participants who may feel as if they have yet to accomplish anything in their life, it’s a milestone and motivation to continue moving forward for the sake of their children’s future,” said Keisha Louis, FFSC special events coordinator. See ‘FAMILIES’ page 2

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Around Town

July 27, 2022 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

‘FAMILIES’ from cover The ceremony has been a tradition at the nonprofit since 1998 and presents an opportunity for graduates to experience a sense of achievement and purpose. “It’s a milestone and motivation to continue moving forward for the sake of their children’s future,” Louis said. FFSC has also had a profound effect on mothers. “FFSC is a lifeline for me and having access to their support staff for a whole year goes a long way. I know FFSC helps dads, but they also help single moms like me, including how to co-parent with the father of my kids,” said a mother who participated in the Family Formation program and graduation. “What I learned in class has transformed me in the best way for my

family.” The tools and information offered have proven to be invaluable to the fathers and mothers in the program. These tools are significant to not only the productiveness of the individual, but the holistic functionality of the family dynamic. There are also follow-up services to continue the support to those who’ve completed the program. Halbert Sullivan, the founder of FFSC, who passed away last year, developed the organization in 1997 after his own experiences as a youth caused him to be in and out of jail and struggling with addiction. After a personal awakening, he entered St. Louis Community College, went on to Fontbonne University and then Washington University in St. Louis where he received his master’s in social work from the Brown School.

COMMUNITY VOICES: Huneke Publications, Inc. 2139 Bryan Valley Commercial Dr. O’Fallon, MO 63366 PH: 636-379-1775 FX: 636-379-1632 Published weekly since 1921. Serving St. Louis, St. Charles and Lincoln Counties. Publisher/ Editor-in-Chief Mathew DeKinder Publisher Emeritus/ General Manager Robert J. Huneke Production Manager Rebecca Brockmann Production Assistant Melissa Nordmann Copy Editor Donna Huneke Staﬀ Writers Brett Auten, Wendy Todd, Laurie Simon Columnists Gary Baute, Steve Bryan, Cindy Moore Cartoonist John Hanna Social Media Lori North Classiied Advertising Brooke Tolle Display Advertising Heather Deatz, Bob Huneke, Norm Merchant, Laurie Simon Circulation Dominion Distribution, Papers Unlimited Community News is a Registered Trademark of Huneke Publications, Inc: Neither the advertiser nor the publisher is responsible or liable for misinformation, misprints, typographical errors, etc., herein contained. Huneke Publications, Inc. reserves the right to accept or reject all news and advertising copy which in the sole judgement and discretion of the publisher/editor is not suitable or deemed appropriate for publication. Copyright 2021 Huneke Publications, Inc. with all rights reserved. No part of the publications may be repr duced in any form without permission in writing from the publisher/editor. Publication of advertising contained herein does not necessarily constitute endorsement. Signed columns are the opinion of the writers and not necessarily the opinion of the publisher. Entire Contents Copyrighted.

He took his knowledge and passion and created Fathers and Families Support Center to help fathers realize their potential to become responsible contributors to their children’s lives. And through that vision FFSC has helped nearly 20,000 fathers in the region and recouped over $1 million in child support in one year from Family Formation participants. In addition to the Family Formation program, FFSC also offers mental health counseling, drug addiction resources, family trauma counseling and trauma due to gun violence. The organization hopes to continue assisting fathers, mothers achieve their goals of heathy families and thriving children. For more information on Fathers and Families Support Center go to: https://fatherssupportcenter.org/.

By Rick L. Stevens

Health risks to avoid – now and always Summer is in full swing and we’re finally able to venture out of the house – responsibly, of course – to relax outdoors and enjoy family and friends now more than ever over the past two-and-half years, as the pandemic continues. But, as fun as summer can be, the season does carry some health risks. I want to take this opportunity to share with you some healthy tips to keep in mind as you continue to navigate through the summer and into the future. Whether your plans include a long-awaited family reunion, or a well-deserved respite at the lake, beach or the mountains, take a few moments to consider these safety tips regarding your eyes, the heat, using sunscreen, water safety and safe driving that will serve you well now and always for wellness and safety. Protect your eyes One of the most common misconceptions about wearing sunglasses is that they’re just a fashion statement, yet all medical experts agree that sunglasses with 100% UV protection are critically important to overall longterm eye health. One of the leading reasons why eye protection is important is to slow the progression of cataracts — when the lenses in our eyes become hard and cloudy. An increase in UV exposure can also result in scar tissue formation — called pinguecula or pterygium (growths on the eye’s clear covering over the white part of your eye). Exposure may also play a role in macular degeneration, a disease affecting the center of the retina that causes a decrease in vision. It’s also important to wear sunglasses consistently year-round. There’s a common misconception that you only need to wear sunglasses in the spring and summer months, but you should really be wearing them yearround. Any time you’re outdoors or in the car and the sun is shining, your sunglasses should be on. Heat, humidity and heatstroke Summer heat requires a different “dress code.” Wear lightweight cotton and loose-fitting, light-colored clothes to help air circulate

and allow your body to “breathe.” Clothes made with synthetic fabrics will also help keep you cool as they wick the moisture from your body. The early morning hours are the best time to exercise and work on your outdoor to-do list. The hottest time of the day is between noon and 4 p.m. On hot and humid days, replenishing your body’s fluids is a must to prevent dehydration or heat exhaustion. Spending too much time in the hot sun can be dangerous, especially for adults 65 and older. Heat-related illnesses, such as heatstroke, occur when the body is no longer able to stay cool. People 65 and up account for the most heat-related hospitalizations because they cannot adjust as well to sudden changes in temperature, making them especially vulnerable in hot temperatures. With that in mind, it’s important to know warning signs of heatstroke. While it presents in younger adults as clammy hands or a dry mouth, symptoms in older adults include: • Delayed or reduced sense of thirst • Lack of perspiration • Change in behavior • Inability to concentrate • Fainting Pick the right sunscreen Regardless of how you enjoy the warm months, it’s always important to protect your skin from the sun’s rays year-round. First and foremost, always look for sunscreen that’s labeled “broad spectrum” or mentions that it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVB rays cause sunburn and increase our risk of skin cancer, while UVA rays mainly contribute to skin damage that ages us, like wrinkles and leathery texture. The second thing to look for is the SPF level — this is how much longer it will take untanned skin to redden with the sunscreen than without it. For instance, when wearing SPF 30 sunscreen, it’ll take 30 times longer for your skin to burn than with no sunscreen at all. Values between 30 and 50 will offer

adequate protection. You should be using a quarter teaspoon of sunscreen on your face and about an ounce — approximately oneshot glass worth — for the rest of your body. If using spray-on sunscreen, apply two layers. Water safety In the “dog days of summer,” it’s refreshing to spend a day at the pool. But there can be consequences to fun, warm-weather activities if you don’t take proper safety precautions for you and your children. It’s important to keep in mind drowning is one of the leading causes of death in children ages one to four. When boating and kayaking, life jackets are at the core of safety and required by Missouri law on all personal watercrafts. Driving safety It’s truly alarming to learn that at any given daylight moment across America, approximately 660,000 drivers are using cell phones or electronic devices while driving, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Summertime means even more travel to get away spots, so when you’re behind the wheel – whether alone or with passengers – driving safely should always be your top concern. We’re more distracted than ever, so it’s crucial to know the basics of safe driving and practice them every time you’re on the road. I share all of this information with your good health, wellness and best interests in mind. In medicine, the saying “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” holds continues to prove true and can save you money and your life, Until next time, enjoy your summer – and stay healthy! Rick L. Stevens, FACHE, is Christian Hospital President. 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 • July 27, 2022

Around Town

Affinia Healthcare to hold community health fairs for back-to-school season To help families prepare for the start of school, Affinia Healthcare is hosting several events for youth and their parents. Affinia Healthcare will hold its Medical and Dental Community Day for Children 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, July 30 at its 1717 Biddle location near downtown. This will be a great opportunity for children to receive dental screenings, school physicals and immunizations. Community resources will be available as well as assistance to complete Medicaid applications. Families can also receive children’s gift packets, essential care bags, and much more. Affinia Healthcare will also hold two back-to-school events in August. The first Back to School Fair and Vaccination Event will be held Aug. 6, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

at the Affinia Healthcare location at 3930 S. Broadway. There will be two Back to School Fair and Vaccination Events 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Aug. 13 at the 4414 N. Florissant and 1717 Biddle locations. “Affinia Healthcare is proud to be a part of the community and offer these vital services for families and youth,” said Dr. Alan Freeman, Affinia Healthcare President/CEO. “Good health is critical to doing well in school and we want to make sure that our community has the health and wellness resources necessary to show up on the first day ready to learn and succeed.” The back-to-school events will feature free school supplies, community resources, and Affinia Healthcare mascot, Dottie the Dalmatian. There will be entertainment from Marvelous the Clown and a live DJ.

COVID-19 vaccinations will also be administered by appointment only. Families must also schedule appointments for the immunizations, physicals, and other vaccines. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 314-814-8700. Attendees must wear masks at all events. All events are open to the public. For more information, please

United Way awards $100,000 to nonprofits for summer learning and nutrition programs United Way of Greater St. Louis recently awarded nine one-time community enhancement grants totaling $100,000 to local nonprofits for traditional and virtual summer programs supporting youth ages fivethroug-16 through summer learning and nutrition. In total, the funding will enable organizations to support an additional 4,000 young people throughout the St. Louis region this summer. “Programs that gives children the resources to stay engaged during the summer by learning about a variety of important things including healthy eating and nutrition is invaluable to their long-term development,” said Michelle Tucker, president and CEO of United Way of Greater St. Louis. “These programs are important because healthy eating helps children become better learners and that will benefit them once the school year begins.” The following organizations were selected to provide access to healthy food to youth by supporting summer food and nutrition programs that complement summer learning loss programming: • The SoulFisher Ministries • Wesley House Association • Northside Youth and Senior Service Center • Sherwood Forest Camp • LifeWise STL • Girls Incorporated • Youth and Family Center • St. Vincent Home for Children

• St. Louis Area Foodbank Funding for these grants were provided by a generous gift from the Margaret and Richard Riney Family Foundation, which supports programs and organizations that prioritize equity in health, education, care for animals, and arts and crafts. The foundation and United Way have partnered on summer learning and nutrition programs since 2019, impacting over 6,000 young people across the St. Louis region. “We are grateful to deepen our partnership with United Way of Greater St. Louis. We believe their organization supports our local community in such a vital way,” said Margaret Riney. “These programs allow children access and education on how to engage in proper self-care, which is an essential component to their future success.” “We are incredibly grateful to the Margaret and Richard Riney Foundation for their generosity and commitment to helping young people in our community,” noted Tucker.

Florissant and the Knights of Columbus to co-sponsor a food truck event The Knights of Columbus Duchesne Council #2951 and the city of Florissant will be co-sponsoring a Food Truck Knight on Aug. 19 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 August event will be Lost Dog, who will perform until 8 p.m. The truck line up for the eve-

ning is: The Sweet Divine, Doughboys, Mann Meats, Angie Burger, Zias, Hacienda, Tuk Tuk Thai, Cajun Seduction and 2 Girls 4 Wheels. 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.

www.upstl.org

Around Town

July 27, 2022 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Missouri Public Transit Association releases findings of Statewide Transit Needs Assessment Study The Missouri Public Transit Association (MPTA released the findings of a Statewide Transit Needs Assessment Study commissioned by the Lochmueller Group – a full service, survey, planning, engineering and environmental firm – in partnership with the MPTA, its member agencies and the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT). Over the

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last 10 months, this first-of-its-kind study examined public transit access across Missouri to help identify service gaps and operational needs, guide future mobility enhancements, prioritize investments and develop policies to better deliver transit service to customers and communities. According to the study, 2,000 transit vehicles – operated by 4,500 workers – transport 156,000 riders every day in Missouri, yet there are unmet transit trip needs in virtually every corner of the state. Demand is especially acute for more rural areas that have non-programmed transportation needs or trips needed by individuals who do not qualify for Veterans Administration, Medicare and/or Medicaid. Urban areas are affected too as every operator and system throughout the state has some form of unmet needs. Total trips would need to increase by more than 39 million annually to meet derived demand estimates, costing more than $341 million a year in additional operating dollars. Historically, Missouri’s state funding has been only $0.28 per capita. Comparatively, the average transit investment of other states is $7.34 per capita. The Missouri legislature has recently approved $8.7 million, a historic level of funding not seen for more than two-decades, which increased the amount to $1.41 per capita. According to the study, concerted efforts will need to be made on the part of many stakeholders to ensure this level of investment occurs annually, and a significant amount of additional funding will need to be identified to attempt to reach the peer average and close the identified funding gap in Missouri. Beyond funding, the study found that 34 transit operators face additional challenges, including a dire labor shortage. Increasing tightness in the labor market is an issue being felt across the transit industry, as well as other markets statewide and nationally. Recruiting, training and retaining drivers takes time and effort, and the pool of applicants is increasingly small. The same rings true for mechanics and vehicle maintainers. Vehicle needs are acute. These needs, which include vehicle replacements, are valued at more than $240 million dollars to meet the Federal Transit Administration useful life benchmark. Supply chain, microchip issues and Buy America requirements are exacerbating wait times for new vehicles even when funding is available. It takes

two to five years from the time of ordering to the time for delivery, regardless of vehicle type. “The goal of the study was to not only identify the current transit accessibility landscape, but to also provide direction for next steps,” stated Shawn Dikes, Senior Project Manager for the Lochmueller Group. “We worked to help identify short-term, mid-term and long-term recommendations to hopefully be accomplished in one to five years, six to 10 years and more than 10 years, respectively.” On the funding front, the overall recommended goal is to increase funding for transit across the state to be more in line with funding levels of surrounding states. State matching funds for capital acquisitions – which are often vehicles – also needs to increase and there should be a $0 match for non-programmed rural transit providers since they have the most trouble procuring new vehicles and maintaining operations. Furthermore, the Lochmueller Group recommends the FTA 5311 reimbursement regulation that limits what can be counted as match and how MoDOT interprets the split for funding for 5311 operations and the reimbursement rate(s) be reexamined. Since this is a federal law, this could be a more complex and lengthy effort. Snapshot data produced through this Statewide Transit Needs Assessment Study is essential, but additional data will need to be collected in a consistent manner in the future to reveal trends and needs more proactively. It is also essential that factual data be disseminated and used for educational purposes among stakeholders, decision-makers, riders and the community at-large. Holding a Missouri Transit Summit focused on face-to-face networking to discuss technical issues and peer information exchange was also proposed. It was also recommended that the Missouri Rural Transit Assistance Program (RTAP) be rescoped to take on an expanded role and perhaps be the premier program to conduct transit data collection, research and outreach. Regardless of who heads the effort, there is a need for a one-stop, Missouri-centric repository for all service areas and geographies, as well as the line data and attributes, that make up transit services. An online transit planning, estimation and stimulation tool – which integrates socio-economic, land use and transit network data into a platform for scenario-based transit ridership estimation and analysis – would also be crucial to have. Incremental steps are recommended as it relates to service delivery, operations and assets. Transit providers and their partners and advocates should seek to fill 5% of unmet needs within five years, 7.5% within 10 years and 15% within 15 years. This would be an increase in the number of trips by approximately 1.9 million, 2.9 million and 3.9 million, respectively, in those timeframes. For non-programmed rural needs, this could be partially achieved by increasing the amount of revenue miles and hours that are delivered as this is the number of miles where vehicles are actively engaged in providing services. Lastly, Missouri should seek to replace vehicles in such a manner so that none of them are beyond useful life recommendations. To learn more about the Missouri Public Transit Association, visit www.mopublictransit.org.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • July 27, 2022

Business

Local organizations join Ameren Missouri in leading clean energy transformation On July 15, a group of leading organizations from across Missouri announced they’re joining Ameren Missouri, a subsidiary of Ameren Corporation, to bring more clean energy to the state. These organizations are committing to clean energy by choosing to purchase up to 100% of their total energy use from renewable generation sources. To meet these organizations’ renewable energy goals, Ameren Missouri created the Renewable Solutions program. The program would be served by a 150 megawatt (MW) solar facility being acquired by Ameren Missouri, marking another step toward its transition to renewable energy. “We know that reaching our goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2045 will take innovative solutions and partnerships,” said Mark Birk, chairman and president of Ameren Missouri. “This creative partnership with local businesses and organizations is just one of the ways that we’re working to increase the amount of clean energy on the grid while still maintaining the affordability and reliability our customers expect.” The solar facility, in White County, Illinois, is being developed by Invenergy, a leading developer, owner and operator of sustainable energy solutions. This facility, which Ameren Missouri previously announced an agreement to acquire, is expected to produce the energy equivalent to powering nearly 27,500 homes annually. The acquisition is subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions and could begin serving customers as soon as 2024. “As we advance our plans to grow renewable energy generation, locating projects in Missouri and surrounding states is necessary to maintain the reliability our customers expect and the resiliency necessary for the grid,” Birk said. All customers will benefit from the successful implementation of the program through: • Clean energy on the grid at a lower cost to all customers. • Investment in local construction jobs, suppliers and increased economic activity. • Support of Ameren Missouri’s transformative expansion of wind and solar energy as part of the transformational changes toward net-zero carbon emissions. The following are some of the 10 organizations that have committed to the growth of renewable energy in our region as part of the Renewable Solutions program: • Bi-State Development

• Mastercard

• bioMérieux

• SSM Health

• Emerson

• Walmart

• General Motors “It’s clear many business customers share our vision of a sustainable energy future and are seeking to power their operations with clean energy,” said Patrick Smith, vice president of economic, community and business development at Ameren Missouri. “We created the Renewable Solutions program as an easy way for these customers to take an active role in reducing carbon emissions across the region.” Subscribers will receive Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) for their participation, a tangible way to denote their own reduction in emissions. They also will benefit from predictable pricing, and the program will help them avoid the large capital investment required

to construct their own solar facilities. Future expansion The Renewable Solutions program may be expanded in the future to provide additional options for commercial, industrial and governmental customers. Small businesses and residential customers looking to increase their own renewable energy usage have several options, including Ameren Missouri’s popular Community Solar program. Both programs will help Ameren reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2045 and the company’s strong interim goals of a 60% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030 and an 85% reduction by 2040, from 2005 levels. These goals are included in Ameren Missouri’s comprehensive integrated resource plan to safeguard long-term energy reliability and resiliency while also accelerating the company’s planned additions of clean wind and solar generation by 2030. Support for the program Renewable Solutions would not be possible without the support of local organizations. “Being part of Ameren Missouri’s Renewable Solutions program to develop clean energy is fully aligned with bioMérieux’s CSR strategy. We actively work to reduce our emissions in all our operations and along the entire value chain. We are excited to partner with the energy experts at Ameren Missouri to bring this innovative concept to life,” said Bart van den Brand, Senior Vice President, Americas Operations, bioMérieux. “Emerson has established a target to achieve net-zero operations and source 100% renewable electricity by 2030. We commend the Ameren Missouri team for developing this opportunity to invest in renewable energy as businesses in our region work together toward a more sustainable future,” said Mike Train, Senior Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer, Emerson. “GM is proud to be part of this innovative and forward-thinking new program that will directly impact the region’s transition to clean energy, as well as move GM even closer to achieving our goal of powering all our U.S. facilities with 100% renewable energy by 2025. Ameren Missouri’s Renewable Solutions program is a great complement to GM’s bold environmental goals and will help us create a better future for all,” said Kristen Siemen, Chief Sustainability Officer, General Motors. “Everyone deserves the opportunity to live in a healthy environment, www.cnbstl.com free of pollution and

with access to nutritious foods and green spaces to play and work. As a faith-based, Catholic health care system, preservation of the earth is part of our Mission and Vision. This project enables us to lend our voice, and our economic resources, as an advocate for smart policies, alternative energy sources and greening our communities. We are glad to partner with others to improve our environment and help us all lead healthier lives,” said Gerry Kaiser, Vice President of Facilities and Real Estate, SSM Health.

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Senior Living

July 27, 2022 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Still In This Together: Summer doldrums set in I had just spent twenty minutes trying to find the breeziest outfit I could put together that would help me keep my cool but still look nice enough to be seen in public for our first week of the 2022 Muny, and I was in a mood. The temperature was ghastly, the heat index made it somewhere between 145 and 199 degrees, and as I walked into the family room, I was regaled by the new local meteorologist pointing to a chart which outlined the top five reasons to appreciate the hot temperatures. I just wasn’t in the mood, and I told her so, in no uncertain terms. John just looked at me and said, “Whoa!” I don’t remember all of her five reasons we should be embracing the Death Valley temps, but No. 1 was: “There’s No Snow”, and No. 5 was “The Furnace Isn’t Running”. “Who is this little chickee trying to impress?” I nastily shouted at the TV. “We’re having to deal with heat and humidity, sticking to the Muny seats and trying to catch just a whiff of a breeze. I couldn’t find any bottled water in the refrigerator, so I froze a tumbler of water to carry with me,

and I’m just starting to feel human again after our runin with the COVID that’s kept us away from humanity and our grandkids for over two weeks. I’m not in the mood.” John just muttered under his breath, “At least you’re not dancing and singing in the heat tonight. Bet the performers aren’t looking forward to it much, either.” Okay, I had to give him that. “Chicago” is an extremely upbeat, fast-dancing, loud-singing gymnastic extravaganza. And I agreed to be pleased by the “at least you’re not” comparison for the moment. But I was still not entirely on board with the “Five Positive Things About the Heat” offering, and I shared my displeasure with my sisters, my niece and my sisters’ two friends who made up our Tuesday night Muny gaggle. One of them very tentatively said she would rather be hot than cold and I reluctantly agreed, with the caveat that I be on a white sandy beach with my toes in the water, not trying to unobtrusively shift my blouse so it wasn’t sticking to me and wondering why I had chosen capris that seemed to cling just a little too tightly to the extra pounds I’ve been meaning to walk off. Except it’s been TOO HOT!! My sister said, “You know, snow cones taste better when it’s really hot, especially the rainbow ones.” My only argument to that was that cherry and lime split right down the middle are so much better. And then sister No. 2 said that a frozen bottle of water was just so much more refreshing when it was really hot, and my defenses were suddenly in question. “Nothing like cool sheets on a turned-down bed that the air conditioning has been blowing on all day,” someone offered. “Oh, and what about walking out of the heat and into

By Vicki Bahr a cool house, or a good old-fashioned water balloon fight?” Over the next few days, I found myself polling the grandkids on the subject, and honestly being surprised at the persuasive arguments they presented, with No. 1 being, “At least we’re not in school.” Couldn’t argue with that. The two-and-a-half-year-old twins seem enamored with wearing shorts, especially if the shorts have pockets they can stick their hands into and balloon out as they dance around, and just as enamored with frozen ice pops as their big brother. Our Omaha ten-year-old, Aidan, was in camp the past week and loved being allowed to play in the mud and coat himself “like a pig wallowing in it,” and then winning a tug of war contest with the other team. His thirteen-year-old brother, Conor, was invited by a buddy to the opening day of the College World Series and swore it just wouldn’t have been the same if it hadn’t been hot. Our North Carolina grandkids have a subdivision pool, and are thrilled that the weather’s been so conducive to somersaults and cannonballs into the water. I had a little bit of backup from the two in-town grand-girls, but then they broke the spell by talking about riding their bikes as fast as they could and running into the movie theater where “It’s like 20 degrees it’s so cold!!” I’ve been shamed: me the positive one, always looking for the bright side and the silver lining and eternal proponent of happy endings. Just now, I watched as the lightning bugs began to rise en masse from the backyard grass. I’m pretty confident they arrived earlier than usual this year because of the heat and humidity, and they are a smile-inducing sight to behold. I’m never going to enjoy the summer heat, but I guess it’s wise to appreciate its few perks if we have to endure it. And summer will, in a couple of months, usher in the all-things pumpkin spice season. Can’t be all bad….

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.

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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 • July 27, 2022

What’s Happening

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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

Aug. 26: Trivia night

The Center for Head Injury Services – a nonprofit that empowers those with brain injuries, autism, and other cognitive disabilities – will host its 16th annual “Gray Matters” trivia night at the Maryland Heights Community Center located at 2300 McKelvey Rd. in Maryland Heights. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and trivia begins at 7 p.m. Proceeds from the event will benefit the nonprofit’s programs and services. Tickets are $25 per person and $200 for a table of eight. Premier tickets – which are $40 per person and $320 per table of eight – include a chef-prepared menu of snacks, appetizers, salad, entrée, dessert, beer and soda. For more information or to register, call 314-983-9230 or visit www. headinjuryctr-stl.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: meetings

Workshop

City of Pine Lawn holds regular workshop meetings at city hall at 6250 Steve Marre Ave. in Pine Lawn on the fourth Monday of the month at 6:30 p.m. The meetings are open to the public.

Mondays: singers

cappella

All men who like to sing are invited to come sing with us, The Men of Harmony. We practice every Monday night at 7 p.m. at 5500 Parker Road which is the first house on Uthe Lane. We sing fourpart 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 314993-6134.

Mondays: Korean War Veterans Association meeting

If you had military service in Korea between Sept. 3, 1945 and the present you are cordially invited to a meeting of Chapter 4, North County Korean War Veterans Association. Meetings take place at the VFW Post 4105 at 410 St. Francois in Florissant on the second Monday of the month, starting at 7 p.m. For more information contact Walter Kaiser at 314-9212132. For a limited period the Chapter will pay for one

(1) year membership for new members.

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

M o n d a y s -T h u r s d a y s : Volunteers needed

Tuesdays: Choir rehearsals

Tuesdays: Bingo

Tuesdays: TOPS (Take off pounds sensibly)

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

Tuesdays: singers

cappella

The Gentlemen of Sound are looking for men who like to sing or want to learn. They practice Tuesdays at Lady of the Pillar school at 401 S. Lindbergh from 7 – 9 p.m. They try to do public events monthly. Always looking for new members. Come by or call Charlie at 314-954-1121.

Tuesdays: Chair Zumba

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

Tuesdays: Celebrate Recovery

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

SUDOKU answers from page F-1

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.

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

www.midwestbankcentre.com/digital-cd

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. CROSSWORD answers from page F-4

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Sports

July 27, 2022 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

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Sports you see with Gary B... Hoots pitcher takes two pressures on during the season The O’Fallon Hoots is a baseball team that plays in the Prospect League in the Prairie Land Division playing their home games in O’Fallon at CarShield Field. Logan Mantz thriving under pressure as pitcher and hitter. Hitting a baseball is one of the hardest things to do in sports. Pitching is one of the hardest things to do in sports. Doing both at the same time? Very few can do that successfully. However, UMSL product Mantz has found success both at the plate and the dish this season for the Hoots. Coming to the team listed as a two-way player, Mantz knew he could be relied upon to eat some innings. With the high amount of infielders on the roster at certain points this season, the innings responsibility has only grown. Mantz has taken the challenge headon, and found success. While Mantz has had one start, his other six appearances have come out of the bullpen. Coming out of the bullpen usually means coming into the game in high-leverage, pressure-filled situations. Most people succumb to that kind of pressure or get defeated by it, but not Mantz. “When I come out of the bullpen, most of the time I’m coming into pressure situations,” said Mantz. When Mantz was asked to elaborate on his mindset when under pressure, he said all he tries to do is his job. “When I come in from the bullpen I think, I think we can (make the playoffs),” said Mantz. “I think we still have enough guys on the team that are power hungry and get that playoff spot to play in the middle of August.” Mantz also wanted to share that he has greatly enjoyed playing for the Hoots and the level of competition he’s played against. “This has been a great experience coming off of what I did last year,” said Mantz. “This is a lot more of a competition for me, I love playing for the Hoots and it’s a great environment.” * Putting pressure on himself makes him excel

Two former Hoots drafted by Diamondbacks and Braves A few former O’Fallon Hoots are flying their way up to professional baseball. 2021 Hoot and 2022 CarShield Collegiate League (CCL) members Brett Johnson and 2020 Hoot Andrew Keck have been selected in the 2022 MLB Draft. Johnson was selected in the 10th round, 288th overall by the Arizona Diamondbacks. The SIUE senior outfielder hit .350 this past season for the Cougars, clubbing 23 home runs and driving in 63. Johnson has also spent time in O’Fallon, playing for the Hoots in 2021, and the St. Louis Prospects of the CCL this summer. As a member of the Hoots last season, Johnson hit .315 across 38 games. He hit four home runs in the regular season, and hit a two-run home run in the Hoots’ lone playoff game. Johnson also swiped 14 bags last season. This year for the Prospects, Johnson continues his strong play with a .393 average in nine games. He’s hit five home runs, has 13 RBI’s, and is 3-3 in the stolen base category. Keck, a catcher at SEMO and a St. Louis native, was selected in the 10th round, 305th overall by the Atlanta Braves. The Redhawk hit .326 with 17 home runs, 68 RBI and 11 stolen bases in 57 starts in 2022. The backstop earned Second-Team All-OVC for his efforts in 2022. He played in 21 games, hitting .286 with three home runs, 14 RBI’s and had an OPS of 1.007. For more information, visit www.OFallonHoots. com. * Remember us in the Bigs

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 • July 27, 2022

Recipe: A cobbler full of summer flavors Oh-So-Berry Cobbler Servings: 8

Ingredients: 2 cups strawberries, sliced 2 cups blackberries 2 cups blueberries 2 tablespoons lemon juice 3 tablespoons cornstarch 2 cups flour 1 teaspoon baking powder

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– 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.

1 1 1 1/2 2

teaspoon salt cup butter, softened cups brown sugar teaspoons vanilla extract nonstick cooking spray ice cream

Directions: Heat oven to 350 F. In large bowl, mix strawberries, blackberries and blueberries then add lemon juice and cornstarch; mix to combine. Refrigerate 20 minutes. In medium bowl, whisk flour, baking powder and salt. Set aside. In bowl of stand mixer, beat butter, brown sugar and vanilla extract on medium speed until blended. Gradually add flour mixture until crumbles form. Spray 9-by-13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Pour berries into bottom of dish. Top berries with crumbles. Bake 30-40 minutes, or until lightly browned. Serve with ice cream.

Find more summer recipes at Culinary.net

SEE ANSWERS ON STL PAGE 7

Peter Dinklage will star in ‘Hunger Games’ prequel

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.

n 2008, The heroine of the series was “ T h e Katniss Everdeen, a young womHunger Games,” an played by Jennifer Lawrence Suzanne Collins’s inin the films. After her father triguing young adult died in a coal mining accident, novel, was published. she used her bow and arrow to It was set in Panem, hunt game that she could sell at a North American the black market. Katniss’ world country consisting of turned upside-down when, the wealthy Capitol during the annual reaping, her and 12 less affluent sister was selected to participate districts. Each year, a in the games. Katniss quickly boy and a girl in each volunteered to take her place and district were chosen put herself in mortal danger. She by lottery to partichad an ally in Peeta Mellark (Josh ipate in the Hunger Hutcherson), the son of bakers Games, a brutal comwho was in love with Katniss. petition conceived Set 64 years before the events as punishment by (Left) ‘ The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’ photo courtesy of Lionsgate. (Right) Peter Dinklae photo courtesy Bigstock. of the first novel, “The Ballad the government. of Songbirds and Snakes” also The contestants featured Coriolanus Snow, the were taken to the Capitol for training before go- Casca Highbottom, the Dean of the Academy, a future President of Panem. In his youth, Snow ing into the lethal arena created by the Game- school for the children of the rich and powerful. had been part of the Peacekeepers, the group Panem segregated the wealthy residents of that kept order in Panem, and later became an makers. the Capitol from the working class. The coun- apprentice Gamemaker. Snow rose to power as After the success of “The Hunger Games,” Coltry originally had 13 districts until one was de- he became older and turned into a cruel dictator. lins wrote two sequels, “Catching Fire” and stroyed after a rebellion against the government. He wasn’t quite prepared for an enemy as skilled “Mockingjay, which continued the story. Each district focused on agriculture, coal min- and determined as Katniss, though. All three novels became feature films and ing, manufacturing and other trades, but the resThe” Hunger Games” novels and movies were “Mockingjay” was later released in two parts. idents didn’t fully benefit from their labors. Each intriguing and it will be interesting to see how More recently, Collins’ “The Ballad of Song- year, the annual “Hunger Games” reminded ev“The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes” will look in birds and Snakes,” was published and will be eryone to obey the Capitol. In a process called theaters next year. Peter Dinklage’s performance adapted for the big screen for a 2023 release. “reaping,” each district sent “Tributes” to the as Casca Highbottom should be interesting to “Game of Thrones” star Peter Dinklage will play games where only one child would survive. watch.

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July 27, 2022 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

Yeggs

John Hanna

Crossword: SUMMER DAYS

‘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 My husband was yammering on about something the other day as I nodded up and down like a bobble-head doll and tossed out a cursory uh-huh every now and then to make him think I was listening. I was nose-deep in my phone trying to solve the day’s Wordle and was on the verge of snagging my answer in three tries. If I did, I would be champion for the day on my puzzle thread. I needed this one to beat out Aunt Fiona and her sassy-pants friends. Such juvenile babies, they were all so-o-o competitive. Of course, I did it strictly for the enjoyment and to stimulate my brain. You know, keep it sharp and from becoming oatmeal. But these ladies were cutthroats. Fiona, Felicia and Nadine: the trinity of trouble. Fiona has discovered a way to find the answer almost always in three to four guesses. She will not share her secret. Felicia would never divulge her word guesses even though the rest of us revealed ours. I guess she figures she has unearthed a lost Aztec language with newly undisclosed five-letter words. As for Nadine, she always congratulates the others on wins, but has never given me any praise on the rare occasion I even come in second place. But this day was my chance for redemption. Everyone had posted their scores. It was a tricky word and they all got fives or sixes. I needed a solid three today or I’d be wearing the cone of shame and the three shrews would rub it in mercilessly or worse, offer fake sympathy: “Don’t punish

yourself for not being astute in English. I’m sure you’ll find something you’re good at.” I had bitten the eraser head off from my pencil and was nearing a breakdown when my husband tried again to get my attention. “What?!” I said snapping my pencil in two. “Arrgh, you know how those old biddies treat me at this game. Just once, I’d like to beat them.” He scowled and said, “Hey, don’t take it out on me. I was about to tell you that I heard if you played it on the computer first you could solve the puzzle then next play on your phone and know the answer. But of course, that wouldn’t be fair…” Information like that is priceless or around the cost of a new set of golf clubs. I’ll have them delivered on Thursday.

Gaming the System

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. Candy bar Baby 5. New York baseball player 8. *____ days of summer 11. Southern cuisine pod 12. Austin Powers’ charm 13. Phlegms 15. Finish with plaster 16. Balanced 17. Shy 18. *Usually June 21 20. Wood sorrels 21. Between septet and nonet 22. Stir fry pan 23. *”Out” for most kids in summer 26. Popular white fish 30. ___ Tsu 31. Pavlov’s conditioned ____ 34. Part of cathedral 35. Dwelling 37. *It’s often hot and muggy in summer 38. Be in accord 39. Physicist Niels ____ 40. Like some wedding cakes 42. A Bobbsey twin 43. Comparative of staid 45. *Like waterskier’s dream lake surface

47. Jean-Claude ____ Damme 48. Not our 50. *Dangle them in the pool? 52. *Tossing around, pl. 55. Drunkard 56. Falling out 57. Like one deserving of a Christmas gift 59. On and on (2 words) 60. Black tropical cuckoos 61. Bob ____ of boxing industry 62. JFK’s brother 63. “Owner of a Lonely Heart” band 64. Typically 5 of these in a men’s tennis match DOWN 1. “Arabian Nights” bird 2. Luau strings 3. Crosby, Stills and Nash, e.g. 4. Attention-grabbing shout 5. *Summer blockbuster 6. DVD player button 7. Muscle quality 8. Russian parliament 9. “Sittin’ On The Dock Of The Bay” singer 10. Cowboy’s heel prod

12. Courage to carry on 13. Counter seat 14. *Summer activity: berry ____ 19. Game status 22. Car wash option 23. Granite store units 24. Explorer John ____, a.k.a. Giovanni Caboto 25. Commotion 26. German mister 27. Farm structure, pl. 28. Part of an eye, pl. 29. *Adjective for bikini? 32. *County event 33. Tall tale 36. *#5 Down venue 38. Improvise 40. Sophomore’s grade 41. Antonym of ingests 44. Old hat 46. NBA venues 48. Threesome 49. No-distortion sound reproduction, pl. 50. Arctic floater 51. Augmented 52. Brawl 53. Republic of Ireland 54. Hare’s tail 55. *Uninvited picnic guest 58. Ambulance squad, acr. SEE ANSWERS ON STL PAGE 7