CN: August 30, 2023

August 30, 2023

Celebrating Tennessee Williams

Around Town COMMUNITY VOICES By Dr.

Features

Recipe, Movie & Sudoku. Pg. F-1

CLA SSIFIEDS AND HOME & GARDEN. Pg. F-2 /F-3

Moore On Life, Lifestyle & Crossword Puzzle. Pg. F-4

Weather

The eighth annual Tennessee Williams Festival celebrates the work of the great American playwright and his time spent in St. Louis

By Wendy Todd

Tennessee Williams wrote some of the most well-known plays of our time. A number of them, “A Streetcar Named Desire,” “The Glass Menagerie,” “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” and “Suddenly Last Summer” were adapted into feature films starring some of the era’s most notable actors. His legacy of works, that feature innovative prose and provocative subject matter, lives on as an example of American literary classics.

Fans of Williams will get an opportunity to join in on the celebration of his work at the upcoming eighth annual Tennessee Williams Festival.

The festival was created by Carrie Houk, who also serves as its executive director, and

celebrates the two-time Pulitzer Prize winner’s work and life in St. Louis, where he lived for 20 years and was buried in the Calvary Cemetery in North County. She wanted to highlight the playwright in the city where he’d spent so much time and prepared him to develop his distinguished work.

Houk created the festival believing that grand recognition for Williams in a city that had been his home was long overdue.

“I had wondered for years why St. Louis didn’t have a Tennessee Williams festival or didn’t honor him in any way,” Houk said.

“He spent almost 20 formative years in our city and his time here influenced so much of his work. After producing a sell-out run of ‘Stairs to the Roof’ in 2014, I realized that it was time in St. Louis to bring this to fru-

ition. New Orleans, Provincetown, Clarksdale, Columbus and Mississippi all had a long-standing festival. I felt the time was ripe for one to be established here.”

The festival, themed “University City Years,” kicks off Sept. 7 with performances of his play, the Southern gothic, “Suddenly

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Photos courtest Christian Zarrick: Performers will bring to life the works of Tennessee Williams at the eighth annual Tennessee Williams Festival.

Around Town

CORRECTION

An ad in the Classifieds Section of the Aug. 23 edition of the Community News for Semo Pest Control listed incorrect prices for their special. The correct price is for $95 (regularly priced at $125). The Community News regrets the error.

Last Summer” at the Center of Creative Arts, which runs through the 17th. It is directed by Tim Ocel.

There are other events scheduled to engage Williams fans in his art and history, including a walking tour of University City, where he once lived with his family, a poetry slam at Blueberry Hill and a screening of “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” in collaboration with Cinema St. Louis.

Houk wants those who attend the festival to understand the impact Williams had on the literary arts.

“I want them to be reminded of how important Williams’ imprint is on American theatre,” she said. “His work is as timely now as it was when written. His beautiful use of language should continue to be savored by future gen-

erations.”

The festival offers fans and newcomers to Williams an opportunity to delve into the breadth of his art, not only his more recognizable pieces.

“There is a vast, beautiful body of work by Williams that is perhaps not as known as the top six or so plays but demands further examination,” Houk said. “We try to bring our audiences both.”

With a schedule that includes performances, events, panel discussions and more, the Tennessee Williams Festival aims to provide participants an 11day immersive experience in the playwright’s transformative collection of classics.

For more information and tickets, visit www.twstl.org.

COMMUNITY VOICES:

Overland Historical Society to host quarterly meeting with a special guest

The Overland Historical Society’s September general meeting speaker will be Shannon Howard. Howard is a native of North County who describes herself as an old house detective story teller.

She has a very knowledgeable and interesting background to base this work on as she founded the Old Ferguson West Neighborhood Association (now a National Historic District) after she and her husband bought a Victorian home in the neighborhood.

She also served as director of the downtown business association for two years.

In 2014 she was appointed to St. Louis County’s Historic Building Commission by the county council.

Before her realtor career, she was a professional writer for magazines like Better Homes and Gardens and Mary Engelbreit’s Home Companion. She also authored a book on southern architecture and design. For the last 17 years she has been a realtor specializing in vintage homes.

Although she is a very busy woman, Howard is very interested in helping others to learn how to research historical properties in our area. It’s her passion, she says.

If you know of any homes in our area that you would like to know more about please join the general meeting on Sept. 5 at 6:30 p.m. at the Overland Community Center.

By Dr. Otha Myles

Take time to better understand Alzheimer’s disease

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia in the United States, accounting for approximately 60% to 80% of all dementia cases. Nearly six million Americans live with the disease, doubling every five years in patients over the age of 65. Given these staggering statistics, it’s vital to understand Alzheimer’s disease and the impact it can have on families and our community.

One common misconception is that all seniors eventually succumb to Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. This is not the case. Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging, and many adults won’t suffer from this or any other type of dementia in their lifetime. As there is still no cure for Alzheimer’s, early detection and intervention are critical for slowing the progress of the disease and improving the quality of life of those affected.

Recognizing there are factors such as genetics, lifestyle and overall health that potentially can put seniors at higher risk for Alzheimer’s, I encourage my patients at ArchWell Health to focus on prevention by managing chronic conditions, engaging in social activities and playing brain-stimulating games like Sudoku and crossword puzzles. Additionally, it is suggested that seniors consider incorporating some, if not all, of

the following practices into their lifestyle regardless of diagnosis and regardless of age:

• Engage in regular physical exercise such as yoga, walking, swimming, dancing and gardening, ideally four times a week for at least 40 minutes.

• Putting safety first, learn to do new activities you haven’t tried before.

• Stimulate the brain by changing up your routine often.

• Maintain a healthy diet and make sure to include whole grains, vegetables, fruits, lean proteins and healthy fats.

• Challenge yourself by playing a musical instrument, learning a new language or traveling to a new destination of interest.

• Engage in social activities at your local ArchWell Health, or connect with your community or church through volunteer opportunities.

• Make sure to get six to eight hours of sleep each night and manage chronic conditions.

• Educate yourself about Alzheimer’s and other common diseases, and maintain open communication with your caregivers and medical providers.

The care team at ArchWell Health are experts in senior care serving communities from four centers throughout St. Louis. Focused on delivering quality primary care, the company spends above average time with each patient so they can identify lesser-known symptoms of Alzheimer’s, such as difficulties with language and problem-solving, mood and personality changes and a decline in social activities. For more information about prevention and care or to learn how to become an ArchWell Health member, visit archwellhealth.com/livewell or give us a call at 314-449-9727.

Dr. Otha Myles is a Medical Doctor with more than 20 years of experience caring for seniors. Before becoming a physician, Dr. Myles spent 13 years in the United States Army. Today he is a provider at ArchWell Health, a primary care group that delivers best-in-class care at accessible neighborhood centers where seniors can become part of a vibrant, wellness-focused community.

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.

‘CELEBRATING’ from cover

Photo courtesy Christian Zarrick

Affinia Healthcare stands ready for possible measles outbreak

In response to the recent health advisory from the City of St. Louis Health Department, Affinia Healthcare is prepared to support local federally qualified health centers (FQHC) and underserved communities in response to a measles outbreak in the St. Louis metro area.

Earlier this summer the Missouri Department of Health and Human Services granted Affinia Healthcare possession of Immunoglobulin (IG) in the event of a Hepatitis A or measles outbreak. Affinia Healthcare will be responsible for the ordering, storage, transfer and administration of Immunoglobulin (IG) on behalf of the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services for the FQHCs and underserved communities.

The City of St. Louis Department of Health is advising residents of an international travel-associated case of measles in the St. Louis region. On Aug 4, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, the St. Louis County Department of Public Health, and the St. Charles County Department of Public Health released information regarding potential exposures to the confirmed measles case.

The state is requesting Affinia Healthcare have after-hours availability to distribute the immunoglobulin if needed. This medication is used to provide protection (antibodies) against certain virus infections (hepatitis A, measles, chickenpox, rubella) in people who have not been vaccinated or have not had the infection before. It is also used to strengthen the body's natural defense system (immune system) to lower the risk of infection in persons with a certain immune system problem (immunoglobulin deficiency).

Distribution will be managed by Affinia Healthcare President & CEO Dr. Kendra Holmes and Pharmacy Director Kenyatta Johnson. Affinia Healthcare is one of five FQHCs in Missouri to be selected for this important project.

“The medical community has seen a steady increase in the numbers of cases of measles worldwide, so it is wise to prepare and focus on those most vulnerable,” said Dr. Holmes said. “The trust the state has placed in us is humbling yet speaks to the quality of care we provide daily, as well as the level of expertise of our staff. We take this responsibility extremely serious.”

Measles is a virus that is spread by respiratory droplets or through the air. The virus can linger indoors for up to two hours after an infected person has left the area. It is highly contagious for those who are not immune. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that symptoms appear seven to 21 days after contact with the virus (average is 14 days). Symptoms can include the following:

• High fever

• Cough

• Runny nose

• Red, watery eyes

• Rash (usually starting on the face or hairline and moving downward)

• Small white spots inside the mouth beginning 2-3 days after initial symptoms

St. Louis-area residents invited to free Alzheimer’s Educational Conference

The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) will host a free Alzheimer’s & Caregiving Educational Conference for St. Louis-area residents on Sept. 13 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Renaissance St. Louis Airport Hotel at 9801 Natural Bridge Road, as part of its 2023 national Educating America Tour.

The free conference is open to everyone and will allow participants to learn from experts in the field of Alzheimer’s disease, brain health, and caregiving. To register, go to www.alzfdn.org/tour. Advanced registration is highly recommended as registration closes on Sept. 11 at 11 a.m.

“Knowledge is a useful and powerful tool that can help make any situation easier to navigate, especially something as challenging as caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease,” said Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr., AFA’s President & CEO. “Connecting families with useful, practical information and support that can help them now and be better prepared for the future is what this conference is all about. Whether Alzheimer’s is affecting your family, you are a caregiver or just want to learn more about brain health, we invite you to join us on Sept. 13.”

Sessions during the AFA conference will include:

The Aging Brain and the Elimination of Alzheimer’s Disease – As we get older, it is only natural that we start to forget things, but this is a major difference between normal age-related memory slowdown and a degenerative disease such as Alzheimer’s. David B. Carr, MD, will talk about cognitive change, causes of dementia, and the latest diagnostic tests and treatments for Alzheimer’s disease. He will also provide tips to help protect brain health.

Carr is an Alan A. and Edith L. Wolff Professor of Geriatric Medicine, and Clinical Director, in Division of Geriatrics and Nutritional Science at the Washington University School of Medicine. He is also a clinician in the Memory Diagnostic Center and Geriatric Assessment Clinic at Washington University, where he maintains an outpatient consulting practice in dementia and geriatric care.

Cognitive Stimulation Therapy for Persons with Dementia – There are a variety of therapeutic activities and methods to try to help stimulate the brain, keep it active, and delay the progression of cognitive loss. Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) is an evidence-based, non-pharmacologic intervention for people experiencing mild to moderate cognitive impairment. Marla Berg-Weger, PhD, LCSW will explain how CST uses strategies that exercise different cognitive skills, including executive functioning, multi-sensory stimulation, and reminiscence, with the goal of improving cognitive function, through the use of word association/categorization, current affairs, food, and number games. She will provide information on accessing groups and practitioner training.

Berg-Weger is a Professor of Social Work and Executive Director of the Geriatric Education Center at Saint Louis University, as well as a Fellow in the Gerontological Society of America.

Fall, Burnout, and Isolation –Tips and Tricks for Caregivers by the Caregiver Club– Caring for a loved one with a dementia-related illness is a labor of love that often comes with many physical, mental, and emotional challenges. Alicia Behan Christopher and Jodie

Finney, DPT, CGCP, Co-Founders and Co-Presidents of the Caregiver Club, will provide a general overview of Alzheimer’s disease and its symptoms; explain why motor and gate changes occur in individuals living with dementia; and discuss risk factors. They will provide advice on how to prevent falls and modify your home to make it more dementia friendly. In addition, they will talk about combatting isolation and caregiver burnout.

Christopher and Finney founded the Caregiver Club, a nonprofit service organization, to help improve the lives of individuals living with dementia by supporting their caregivers, based on their own personal experiences of caring for a loved one living with dementia.

Free, confidential memory screenings will be conducted throughout the day.

For more information or to register for the Sept. 13 conference, visit www.alzfdn.org/tour. Those who cannot participate in the conference or have immediate questions about Alzheimer’s disease can connect with licensed social workers seven days a week through AFA’s National Toll-Free Helpline by calling 866-2328484 or web chatting at www.alzfdn.org by clicking the blue and white chat icon in the right-hand corner of the page. The web chat feature is available in more than 90 languages.

Around Town

St. Vincent Greenway expansion in Wellston connects area to community resources

Community members joined Great Rivers Greenway (GRG) and its project partners Aug. 6, to celebrate the new half-mile expansion of the St. Vincent Greenway from Trojan Park at Etzel Ave to Robert L. Powell Place in Wellston.

The afternoon kicked off with a parade held along the newly completed section from the Wellston Transit Center to Trojan Park. Then GRG, the Mysun Charitable Foundation and Wellston Mayor Nathanial Griffin took part in a ribbon cutting ceremony at Trojan Park. The celebration concluded with a free concert from local band Dirty Muggs.

The greenway now extends from Trojan Park along Stephen Jones Avenue and west to the intersection of Plymouth and Suter avenues.

Community members can walk, run, push a stroller, ride a bike or use a wheelchair along the paved, accessible path that connects them to Trojan Park, Yadier Molina Field, the Wellston MetroLink Station, Metropolitan Education and Training (MET) Center, STL Partnership Business Center, and the new MetroBus

Still In This Together:

stop on Stephen Jones Ave.

“This greenway builds on our long-successful partnership with Wellston for Trojan Park,” said Susan Trautman, CEO of Great Rivers Greenway. “Even in a small section, we were able to make critical connections to transit and destinations for job training, plus create a lovely new community space along the way.”

Thanks to the support of the Mysun Charitable Foundation along with Great Rivers Greenway funds, a small “pocket” park was added at Plymouth and Stephen Jones Avenues, featuring a new deck with a seating area.

The landing overlooks a recently cleared area of Engelholm Creek and provides a view of a new rain garden with native plantings. This not only provides habitat for pollinators and welcomes visitors, but also offers a place for the water to overflow during rainstorms. Built to flood, this rain garden filters rainwater and reduces pressure on storm drains.

The park also includes solar lighting, a bike rack, a water fountain with water bottle and dog bowl features, and an emergency blue light tower.

The free-cookie lady

We were at the license bureau for the second time. The first time, we had really been looking for information on the process of changing our drivers’ licenses, knowing full well that it probably wouldn’t be as easy as we thought. And we were right.

The license office is a busy place, and the parking lot requires maneuvering worthy of being used in the parking section of the teenagers’ driver testing process, although it’s doubtful any of them would stand much of a chance of passing the driving test that way. But I digress.

At the first visit we were given a sheet of paper that listed all 477 pieces of identification we would need to produce: proof of birth, marriage, residence, and many other proofs I really wasn’t sure of. We left the office bleary-eyed, promising to return with all required information “very soon.”

And we promptly forgot about it, in the interest of preserving our marriage and our sanity. I couldn’t even find the moving box with the iron in it (oh, darn!), how could I be expected to know the whereabouts of the proper info to satisfy info required for Forms A-Z, 752-930?

I must admit, John is a wonderful hoarder of all things paper-related, and I wasn’t at all surprised when he announced one afternoon that he had a “pretty good idea” of where most of the information we needed not only for our new drivers’ licenses, but

for our all-purpose state I.D. Whoopee!!

The next morning, after a super-fun evening of sorting and unboxing and searching through fire boxes and file cabinets, dresser drawers and closet shelves, we drove to the license place with file folders and boxes filled with every piece of minutiae you could imagine, to find a sign on the door apologizing that they were short-staffed that day and it may take “longer than normal” to be processed. But we were already there, so we grabbed a very large number far, far away from the one currently being assisted, and split up to find seats in the jam-packed reception area.

I wondered how they had been able to do business during COVID restriction days, and promptly grabbed my phone to find the weather, a Wordle game, or anything that would keep me busy and prevent staring at a particularly unusual shade of hair color or a most interesting spiderweb tattoo that disappeared into the neckline of a fellow patiently-waiting patron. And the numbers flashing above the desk barely moved.

When we were called up, and I was working the kinks out of my knees to make my way forward without falling flat on my face after sitting for so long, I caught the eye of another woman at the end of the row. She had a huge brown paper bag from a local bakery I’d been curious about sitting in the aisle next to her.

Once John and I had produced every piece of info from our first-grade report cards to proof of our tsetse fly immunizations, we were separated once again so each of us could answer individual questions, take a vision test and be photographed for posterity. Without glasses this time, so that those bags under my eyes from not sleeping, packing and unpacking boxes at all hours, hosting family and friends as we organized furniture and wall hangings, and reading instruction booklets on all the features of our home into the wee hours every night, would be part of my new picture.

I sat down to wait while John was put through his paces and realized the lady with the brown paper bag was next to me now, handing me an individually wrapped gooey butter cookie.

Additionally, the development contributed new LED lights along Plymouth Ave., a new parking lot with permeable pavers at the corner of Stephen Jones and Etzel avenues, and a MetroBus stop with improved seating along Plymouth Ave.

“Our community is very excited to have even more of the St. Vincent Greenway to use every day,” said Griffin. “We’re proud of our partnership with Great Rivers Greenway and we love being a regional destination for our parks and greenways.”

Community members can also travel along the existing stretch of the St. Vincent Greenway, which connects them to destinations such as Ruth Porter Mall Park, the West End and DeBaliviere Place neighborhoods, businesses along DeBaliviere Ave., the Forest Park-DeBaliviere MetroLink station, and Forest Park at the Missouri History Museum.

A future path through Pagedale to St. Charles Rock Road that will connect the St. Vincent Greenway from Forest Park to the University of Missouri-St. Louis will be completed in 2024-2025

By Vicki Bahr

“Hi, I’m Stephanie,” she said with a huge smile. She could see I was about to decline the cookie, and she simply said, “Please take one. I just walked down to the little bakery and bought a bunch of them. I figured a cookie never hurts in a situation like this, does it?”

I told her I’d been wondering about the bakery, and she told me she wasn’t from here. Turns out she’s an over-the-road big rig driver, and was at the license office to get the paperwork from a truck she offered to drop off on her drive from Memphis to Chicago and she just happened to be there that morning.

She’s living her dream of independence after a bad breakup and deciding to see the country on her own terms instead of sitting alone in a too-small apartment feeling sorry for herself. And she makes a habit of striking up conversations, meeting “delightful people” and passing out cookies whenever she can. I was entranced by this wonderful woman and was disappointed when John was finished and I had to be processed. He took my seat, and I was a little worried at how comfortable he would feel talking to Stephanie.

But she charmed him, just as she had everyone around her, with a gooey butter cookie, a story of more than survival, and looking forward to each day’s unexpected occurrences, relishing opportunities to share the world with new acquaintances made in the most unusual of circumstances.

It’s doubtful that Stephanie will ever know what an impact she made on that roomful of planet-cohabitors, but I want to grow up to be just like her…coaxing a smile out of the world when we all need it most.

Vicki Bahr is an inveterate word lover and story sharer, a published author in magazine, newspaper and blog forms. As a mom of four, grandma of nine, and wife of one for 50 years, she finds that inspiration and wonder are everywhere.

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

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: 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: 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 636-5799227, or email concertartsa@ gmail.com.

Mondays: Workshop meetings

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

Mondays: A cappella singers

All men who like to sing are invited to come sing with us, The Men of Harmony. We practice every Monday night at 7 p.m. at 5500 Parker Raoad which is the first house on Uthe Lane. We sing four-part harmony a capella (without accompaniment). We sing some traditional songs, as well as show tunes and more contemporary music. We do perform for the public at various functions. Persons interested can come right on in or for more information call Al at 314-993-6134.

Mondays-Thursdays: Volunteers needed Community Action Agency of St. Louis County is in need of volunteers to stock shelves, sort food shipments and pack bags for Food Pantry Clients Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. Two

to four hour shifts are available. If you are interested, please contact Cheryl Piece at 314-446-4440 or cpiece@ caastlc.org for additional information.

Tuesdays: Bingo

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

Tuesdays: TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly)

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) meets from 10 – 11 a.m. at Expansion Church at 11150 Old Saint Charles Rd. in St. Ann. For more info, contact Pat Pinson 314-428-1168 or 314-435-5898.

Tuesdays: A cappella

singers The Gentlemen of Sound are looking for men who like to sing or want to learn. They practice Tuesdays at Lady

of the Pillar school at 401 S. Lindbergh from 7 – 9 p.m. They try to do public events monthly. Always looking for new members. Come by or call Kirk at 314-954-7920 .

Tuesdays: Chair Zumba

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

Tuesdays: Celebrate Recovery

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

Tuesdays: TOPS (Take off pounds sensibly)

From 9:15 - 10:30 a.m. located at John F. Kennedy Center/ Henry Koch Ctr., Howdershell Rd. at Charbonier Rd., Florissant. For more info

contact Paul McConnell, 314831-5476.

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.

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 8:00 a.m., games begin at 9:30 a.m. For more information, call 314921-2316.

Bridgeton Trails Library Branch Programs: 3455 McKelvey Rd., St. Louis, 314-994-3300. Story Time: Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. 9 months to 2 yrs. Room 1 (Lap Time); Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. Ages 3–5. Room 2; Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. Ages 3–5. Room 1.

CROSSWORD answers from page F-4

SUDOKU answers from page F-1

Sports you see with Gary B...

Hoots crowned home run champion in season finale victory

The O’Fallon Hoots play their home games at CarShield Field in O’Fallon and play in the Prospect League.

The Hoots (1830,13-18) wrapped up their 2023 regular season with a match up with the visiting Springfield Lucky Horseshoes (25-29,14-13) on Aug. 5.

In a season finale that featured 28 total runs, the Hoots hit five home runs en route to an 18-10 victory over the Lucky Horseshoes.

• Drew Mize’s two-run home run, gave the Hoots a league-leading No.58 home runs on the season

• Michael Long hit home runs No. 13 and 14 to claim sole possession as the 2023 Prospect League home run leader

• Chase Beattie and Tucker Platt each hit a home run as well

• Six Hoots batters have multi-hit performances

* Great way to end the season on high notes

High school football finals

As the season begins you will see a few scores being posted. If you want to contact me for additional stories on your team, email me at: info@mycnews.com.

• Parkway Central 49/Parkway South 28

• Holt 21/Troy Buchanan 35 * 2023 season is upon us

UMSL soccer team slated for a strong 2023

The University of Missouri-St. Louis men’s soccer team was picked to finish ninth in the 2023 Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC) Preseason Poll announced recently. The poll was voted on by the league’s 14 head coaches and per league policy coaches were not eligible to vote for their own teams.

Maryville is the favorite to repeat as conference champions as the Saints received 158 total points and nine first-place votes. Indianapolis edged out Illinois Springfield and Lewis for the second spot as the Greyhounds garnered 147 points and one first-place vote while the Prairie Stars were picked third receiving 146 points and a first-place vote. The Flyers received two first-place votes and picked up 145 points.

The league’s 14 teams will compete in a 13-game, round-robin schedule that begins on Sept. 15 and runs through Oct. 29.

The 2023 GLVC Championship Tournament begins on November 5 at campus sites with the semifinals and finals to be held at Corwin Clatt Stadium in East Peoria, Ilinois, Nov. 10-12.

UMSL is coming off a 5-8-3 record including 4-6-2 in 2022. The Tritons 2022 season was highlighted by a win over GLVC runner-up and NCAA Tournament participant Lewis and a draw against Maryville.

UMSL is under the direction of first year head coach Josh Alderson and returns 15 players from last year’s team including three of its top six scorers from a season ago in Jack Meuse, Gabe Stanislawski and Nick Schreiber. Austin Reis returns in goal after making 56 saves and posting two shutouts last season.

The Tritons kick off their 55th season of intercollegiate play on Sept. 3 traveling to Owensboro, Kentucky, to take on Kentucky Wesleyan at 3:30 p.m. UMSL kicks off its home slate on Sept. 29 hosting Indianapolis at 7:30 p.m. at Don Dallas Field.

* Exciting times

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 sea son, among many other activities. I am currently host ing a Health show on 97.1 FM, ‘Prime Time Health’ www.PrimeTimeSTL.com.

It broadcasts Saturday nights at 8 and Sunday mornings at 9.

RECIPE : Bring brunch favorites to the table

Few things go together like the weekend and brunch. Whether that means gathering with family, friends or a combination of both, it’s the perfect time to slow down and bring your loved ones together for a lighthearted meal.

Catering to a variety of different palates requires a diverse menu of dishes ranging from fresh fruit and baked goods to proteins and more. A key ingredient to bring any spread together: Envy apples, which are a natural cross between Braeburn and Royal Gala apples. With their beautifully balanced sweetness, uplifting fresh aroma, delightfully satisfying crunch and bright red skin that sometimes features a golden blush, they can be served fresh or paired with other

BRUNCH BOARD with a Twist

brunch favorites in shareable dishes like the Brunch Board with a Twist. Plus, their naturally white flesh doesn’t brown as quickly as other apples, making them easy to savor while enjoying time with loved ones.

Find

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.

INGREDIENTS:

2 Envy Apples, sliced boiled eggs, halved cooked bacon bananas, sliced berries miniature pancakes edible flowers, for garnish

2-3 Envy Apples, for garnish

DIRECTIONS:

On breakfast platter, artfully arrange sliced apple, halved boiled eggs, bacon, bananas, berries and pancakes. Garnish with edible flowers and whole apples.

Remembering opening credits from classic TV shows

American Heroine” did not, unfortunately, lead to an ongoing series.

allowed me to receive regular broadcast stations as well as classic TV channels such as MeTV.

I noticed that shows from the 1960’s, 70’s, 80’s and 90’s had clever opening sequences designed to grab the viewer’s attention. “The Bob Newhart Show,” for instance, showed Newhart walking to his office in Chicago, taking the train home and, along the way, interacting with other commuters. Lorenzo Music, who was a writer, producer and musician for the show, wrote the title theme with his wife Henrietta.

“The Bob Newhart Show” was a classic sitcom that made me want to explore other classic shows. Over 10 seasons, “Friends” examined the lives of six young New Your City residents. The opening credits featured the main cast splashing around in an ornate outdoor fountain.

Throughout the series, the audience learned more about the main characters. Jennifer Aniston’s Rachel Green, for instance, ran away from her wedding day and moved in with chef

Monica Geller (Courtney Cox). Guest stars such as Tom Selleck, who played dentist Richard Burke, made appearances on the show. After its initial primetime run, “Friends” found a comfortable home in syndication.

On March 18, 1981, “The Greatest American Hero” arrived on the small screen. William Kat starred as Ralph Hinkley, a dedicated teacher who attracted the attention of benevolent aliens. They gave Ralph a powerful suit with incredible abilities, but he lost the instruction book more than once. Opening credits for the series showed Ralph flying (and crashing) multiple times, but he gained control of his powers over time. After the world accidentally learned of his abilities, the aliens wanted him to pass the suit on to another worthy person. A pilot episode of “The Greatest

With its catchy opening montage, “Blossom” was a true 1990’s sitcom. Mayim Bialik, who had a memorable role in the 1988 film “Beaches,” played Blossom Russo, a teenager who lived with her father (Ted Waas) and her two brothers, Joey (Joey Lawrence) and Tony (Michael Stoyanov). The opening credits featured Bialik dancing to the show’s theme song and, over time, the rest of the main cast joined her in the montage as well. “Blossom” was a fun show and, as a fan of “The Big Bang Theory,” having Mayim Bialik play Amy Farrah Fowler was a rather intelligent move.

The opening credits for the sitcom “Head of the Class” showed history teacher Charlie Moore (Howard Hessman) navigating his way through New York to make it to his classroom of geniuses on time. In the early seasons, Moore taught his students much more than what was shown in books. Hesseman left the series in 1990 and Billy Connoly took over the class as teacher Billy MacGregor for what became the final season. Connolly’s character later appeared in the spin-off series “Billy” but it only lasted a half-season.

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.

Moore on Life: Eat words

My husband came in from doing some yard work tired and sweaty, but still had enough energy to say those important three little words to me. I love you? No, not hardly but, “What’s for dinner?”

Yup, that’s the state of romance in our house nowadays. And nothing sounds more romantic than, “Woman me need meat!”

“What are you talking about?” I said. “We just had lunch.”

I looked at the clock and it was 5:30 p.m. Ugh! Time flies when you haven’t defrosted any hamburger for dinner.

Okay think, think. “Well, you caught me off guard. Just grab some leftovers from yesterday’s dinner.”

“Yesterday I grabbed leftovers from the yesterday before yesterday's dinner. The leftovers are over,” he said.

“Okay, okay…hmm. Right, well there should be a doggie bag from when we ordered Chinese. It’s yours.”

“Nope. Strike two. We ate that for lunch yesterday. Keep going.”

“Well, then there should be that extra sandwich…”

“Nada. Ate it for lunch this afternoon. Strike three. You’re out and have run out of options. Now what?”

I had to think fast or else I’d be pick axing some frozen mystery meal out of the depths of our freezer and trying to thaw it out in a pot of boiling water.

By Cindy Moore CROSSWORD: FOOTBALL

“Alright, alright already. It just so happens it’s your lucky day. I remembered tonight is bowl-of-cereal-night. You get to choose from Puffy Sugar Lumps or Frosted Sparkly Circus Animals.”

“Not a chance. I’ve been out all day working my tail end off and I need protein…red meat and potatoes not some sugary kiddie breakfast food that’s going to give me the diabetes.”

He had me there. He was right. The poor guy was famished. What a good hard worker. He needed a man meal. Something to bring vitality back into his bloodstream and mass back to his depleted muscles and at the same time maybe some romance back into our life.

There was only one solution. I said three of the most romantic words I could think of to solve all of our problems, “Let’s eat out.”

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.

LIFESTYLE: Keep your home office organized for increased productivity

Withschool starting back it might be time to tackle some projects around the house. While big projects like windows are hard to overlook, don’t forget smaller areas that need attention, too, such as your home office.

Making sense of a year’s worth of paperwork and clutter can take some serious time, especially as many people have been working from home more than normal, but getting organized can help you tackle home management tasks more efficiently. Making the office a priority can reduce frustration when it comes to spending additional time in your office while working from home.

These five tips can help get you started:

1. Make sure you have furniture that can adequately store your stuff, including plenty of space for files, reference books and computer equipment. Pieces need not be costly to be functional and there are plenty of attractive options available online and at both small and major retailers.

2. Arrange the space with its intended use and your own work style in mind. For example, if you don’t need ample space to spread out over a large, flat work area, eliminate that space – it’s simply an invitation

for clutter.

3. Place items you rely on frequently, such as a calculator or ruler, within arm’s reach so they can easily be put away between uses. Capture these items in containers and bins to keep the space looking neat and free of clutter.

4. Establish a filing system that lets you keep track of important papers you need to keep and have a shredder handy to help you discard any sensitive documents. Whether you alphabetize, color code or use some other method, group paperwork into segments for categories such as bills, banking, health care, auto, insurance and so on for easy access in the future.

5. Tangled cords can make even the most organized spaces look messy, and they may pose a fire or tripping hazard. Get control of your cords by storing devices you don’t use regularly and securing the remaining cords with twist ties or clips. Remember to use a surge-protected power strip to minimize the chance of damage should a power surge occur.

Find more tips to make your workspace tidy and organized at eLivingtoday.com.

ACROSS

1. Brainchild

5. Gravestone wish

8. Paleozoic one

11. Pressing tool

12. Senegal's neighbor

13. Literary theme

15. Scissors sound

16. Final notice

17. *Notre Dame's Fighting ____

18. *Home of the first Super Bowl winners

20. National League Pennant series, acr.

21. Steer clear

22. "Glee" actress ____ Michele

23. Befuddled

26. *One of 4 NFL teams sharing a home field

29. Fish story

30. Stockings

33. "Doggone it!"

35. Rand McNally book

37. Mozart's "L'____ del Cairo"

38. Whiskey drinks?

39. Comedy act

40. Be more of a fox

42. Dead or Black, e.g.

43. Obliquely

45. Roof supporter

47. High or low card

48. Employer's good news

50. Hyperbolic tangent

52. *College player not using eligibility

55. Beastly person

56. Double-reed instrument

57. *Nike Pegasus 39

59. Smidgeons

60. Paddleboarding acronym, pl.

61. Seaside bird

62. *Thirty-____ teams in NFL

63. *Ravens' or Lions' time, acr.

64. *Rushing unit

DOWN

1. "____ Now or Never"

2. "Shoot!"

3. Arabian bigwig

4. Fund-raising letter

5. Torah teacher

6. Homer's famous poem

7. Feel for

8. Larger-than-life

9. A Supreme singer

10. Emerald ____ borer

12. Poet's death lament

13. Fungal skin infection

14. *Home of the Citrus Bowl in Florida

19. Not odds

22. Lily, in French

23. Unfortunately, exclamation

24. *a.k.a. Iron Mike

25. Charcuterie stores

26. Nibble away

27. Have faith

28. Ranee's wrap

31. Lummox

32. Calendar abbr.

34. Russian autocrat

36. *Home to College Football Hall of Fame

38. Secret supply

40. *Extra point

41. Van Gogh flowers

44. Partners of pains

46. Spirited

48. Puzzle with pictures and letters

49. Take as one's own

50. Think, archaic

51. Grand theft target

52. *The oldest college football Bowl

53. Actress Perlman

54. Millimeter of mercury

55. Took the bait

58. *Defensive one

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