CN: October 19, 2022

Transforming transit

By Wendy Todd

Many public transit stations in St. Lou is likely fade into the background as com muters make their way from one point to the next. The Citizens for Modern Transit, the region’s transit advocacy organization, believe that should change and have been partnered with AARP for ten years to im prove the experience on St. Louis public transit including the “Transit Stop Trans formation Project”, which helps make

MetroLink and MetroBus transit centers livelier and more inviting.

The fourth “Transit Stop Transforma tion Project” was unveiled last week at the North Hanley Transit Center featuring dis plays of commuters, structures to provide shade, added seating and interactive ele ments. Kimberly Cella, executive director of Citizens for Modern Transit believes creating more inviting transit spaces is an essential piece of improving the public transportation experience, and thought the

North Hanley location was a great spot to continue the project.

“Transit stops are synonymous with gray space, and when we arrived at this site, it certainly wasn’t the exception,” Cella said.

“Yet today, transit riders are welcomed to a colorful, inviting, interactive and vibrant space full of energy.”

The “Transit Stop Transformation Proj ect” team converted the concrete area be

By Gloria J.

‘TRANSIT’ from cover

tween the bus bays and MetroLink entrance into an interactive, playful and engaging space which showcases a vibrant-colored “Transit: We All Ride Together” theme. The project also reflects the diverse group of rid ers who utilize the MetroLink and MetroBus. Putting a focus on the placemaking, referring to the spaces riders pass through in route to the next destination, was also important.

In addition to making the transit space more visually appealing, considerations for more senior riders were made, which un derscores the importance of partnering with AARP.

“Engaging in livable community transfor mation projects allows AARP to influence

the improvements made to ensure they are suitable for people of all ages,” said Shei la Holm, community outreach director for AARP St. Louis. “Adding improvements such as shade, seating and interactive elements to transit stops creates a more comfortable and enjoyable experience for all who use public transit, especially those over 50.”

The “Transit Stop Transformation Project” has experienced success and positive feed back that encourages further developments. The next transformation will be in East St. Louis.

“Partners are getting ready to start commu nity engagement for our next ‘Transit Stop Transformation Project’ in East St. Louis, Illi nois,” Cella said. “We are also currently seek ing ideas for the next Metro Transit Centers

or MetroBus stops beyond that as our goal is to keep the momentum going.”

The “Transit Stop Transformation Project” is about more than prettying up transit cen ters. It’s about creating a better experience for commuters that will have a healthier influ ence which includes strengthening commu nity and encouraging safer travels.

“Our goal is to transform Metro Tran sit Centers into more inviting, interactive, vibrant spaces that encourage community while helping to improve safety and security, build ridership and increase activity around public transportation,” Cella said. “These transformations are making a difference. It has been a lot of fun to see how splashes of color, music, comfortable seating, shade and artwork can impact people.”

COMMUNITY VOICES: By Gloria J. Johnson, Ph.D.

Look out for warning signs in teen dating relationships

What is relationship violence? A pattern of behavior used by one partner to maintain control over the other partner. It can be in the form of verbal, physical, emotional or sexual abuse. In this type of relationship one partner is usually afraid of the other partner.

One example is Susie. Susie is 17 years old and Richard is her first boyfriend. Richard is a senior and a popular basketball star. Her friends think she’s lucky because her boy friend, is not only cute but is also a sports figure. Richard insults her in front of his friends, he doesn’t want her to hang out with any of her friends. He threatens to break up with her if she doesn’t do as he says. Susie doesn’t want to lose Richard, so she does anything she can to make him happy. Susie does not know that this can be the begin ning of an unhealthy relationship.

Why don’t teen girls tell? Many teen girls have unrealistic views of romance and love and are also inexperienced with dating. They believe if their boyfriend is jealous or possessive, it is a sign of his love for her. Another reason for not telling is they do not know who to tell or ask for help. Most teens do not know that help is even available.

What is the motive for abuse? Some teen

boys believe they have the right to “control” their girlfriends. Others think that physical aggressiveness is masculine. Depending on who their friends are, they are afraid they may lose respect if they are not aggressive.

What can be done? Teen girls can be ed ucated to identify the early warning signs of an abusive relationship. She has to de velop a healthy self-image, recognizing she is valuable as a person and deserves to be treated with respect. If her boyfriend does not treat her with respect, she needs to real ize that he is not deserving of a relationship with her.

Parents should avoid a tendency to min imize their daughter’s relationship with her boyfriend. They should teach her that she has the right to a healthy relationship and what that relationship should look like. They must always keep their communica tion lines open and encourage her to tell them if there is a problem. Parents need to learn what resources are available for assis tance should their teen become involved in an abusive relationship.

Possible indicators that a girl is experi encing abuse in a relationship:

• physical signs of injury

• failing grades or dropping out of school

• changes in her personality, moods, or un stable emotions

• un-normal isolation from friends and rel atives

Life Source Consultants provides free support and confidential services for wom en and their children who are victims of physical, mental, emotional, verbal, finan cial, or sexual abuse. For restored hope and healing, call us at 314-524-0686.

Dr. Gloria J. Johnson is the Founder/CEO of Life Source Consul tants, the first non-resi dential African American domestic and sexual violence organization in the state of Missou ri. Motivated by a deep love and commitment to abused women and to forever change images and perceptions toward domestic violence, fam ily violence and abuse, Dr. Johnson shares true life stories of victims in her book, “I Cried Alone.”

Dr. Johnson received a master’s in biblical coun seling and a Ph.D. in marriage and family coun seling from Biblical Life College and Seminary.

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

The fourth “Transit Stop Transformation Project” was unveiled last week at the North Hanley Transit Center featuring displays of commuters, structures to provide shade, added seating and interactive elements.

Submitted photos

Powder Valley Nature Center hosts Fall Scoutacular Bonanza scouting event

Scouts, this is a one-stop opportunity to work toward 16 different merit badg es in the same day.

The Missouri Department of Conser vation (MDC) is hosting a Fall Scoutac ular Bonanza event Saturday, Oct. 22 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center in Kirk wood. The event is free and open to both Boy Scouts of America and Girl Scouts.

Fall Scoutacular Bonanza will be an opportunity for participants to learn vi tal outdoor skills, connect with nature, and flex their creative muscles. It will also enable members of all scouting pro grams to earn credit towards nature-re lated badges. However, the event is open to the public and membership in a scout ing program is not required to attend.

Fall Scoutacular Bonanza will include guided nature hikes, an interview with a forester, wilderness survival skills, and much more.

Scout troops must provide their own merit badge counselors for this event and bring their merit badge cards. MDC will provide activities that apply towards badges but is not authorized to sign off on badges.

Scouts will be able to visit multiple stations on the area and complete activ ities that will satisfy a variety of badges. Merit badge stations will include:

Boy Scouts

• Fish & Wildlife Management

• Cooking

• Environmental Science

• Forestry

• Mammal Study

• Nature

• Reptile & Amphibian Study

• Wilderness Survival

• Bird Study

Girl Scouts

• Eco Friend

• Trail Adventure

• Hiker

• Outdoor Adventurer

• Camper

• Primitive Camper

• Survival Camper

Some activities will be outside, so par ticipants should dress for the weather. Participants may also want to bring a refillable water bottle and wear sturdy shoes. Registration is required for this event.

Fall Scoutacular Bonanza is free to at tend, but advanced online registration is required by going to https://short.mdc. mo.gov/4pJ. Everyone attending must be registered in advance.

Powder Valley Nature Center is lo cated at 11715 Cragwold Road in Kirk wood, near the intersection of I-270 and I-44.

Florissant’s Walk-Through History Program unveils its 55th plaque in honor of late bank president

Family and friends gathered in front of 699 rue St. Francois on Sept. 28 to unveil the 55th Walk Through History plaque in honor of the late Cyril Niehoff before the start of the last Wednesday Night Out festivities which was sponsored by Hendel’s Café.

Niehoff was a lifelong resident of Florissant. He was married to Marcella (nee Goeke) and together they raised four children. Cyril worked at the Florissant Bank for over forty years and ended his ca reer as bank president.

He was the founding partner of the Moellering and Niehoff Insurance Agency and an Assistant Chief of the Florissant Valley Fire Protection Dis trict. He was active in both Sacred

Heart and St. Dismas Catholic parish es and other civic and cultural orga nizations. Cyril loved and was proud of his family and the community he served.

This was the last Walk Through History plaque dedication for year.

The Walk-Through History Program will start up again in May of 2023.

Photo courtesy city of Florissant Family and friends gathered in front of 699 rue St. Francois on Sept. 28 to unveil the 55th Walk Through History plaque in honor of the late Cyril Niehoff.

Explore macro photography with MDC photographer at Powder Valley Nature Center

The Missouri Department of Conservation’s Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center and the Missouri Nature and Environmental Pho tographers (MONEP) will present a special program featuring MDC photographer Noppadol Paothong: “Noppadol Paothong on The Art of Close-Up Photography.” The pro gram will take place Friday, Oct. 21 from 7-8 p.m. at the nature center in Kirkwood.

Macro, or close-up photography, is one of the best ways to discover a fresh and intimate perspective on nature. It can be one of the most challenging types of photography, too. While macro photography can be highly technical, it also can be as simple as a snapshot. Paothong will share some of the techniques he uses to capture many of his images seen in MDC magazines.

While Paothong has been doing macro and close-up photography extensively for 20 years, he feels the past three years have been especially exciting due to recent advances in both camera technology and software. During his presentation he will show his work process, providing a behind the scenes look at how he captures macro imag es. He will share some of his thoughts on how and why he uses particular lenses and settings.

Paothong is a nature and conservation photographer

and is an associate fellow with the elite group of world wide photographers, the International League of Con servation Photographers (iLCP). He is also an MDC staff wildlife photog rapher and contributes his images and stories to publications including the Missouri Conservationist, and Xplor. His images also appear regu larly in many national publications, such as Audubon, Nature Conser vancy, National Wildlife, Ranger Rick and more. For over 20 years, Paothong has also been docu menting rare and endangered spe cies, primarily grassland grouse and their fragile habitat, and has published two large-format, na tional award-winning books, “Save the Last Dance” (2012) and “Sage Grouse, Icon of the West” (2017).

Paothong will share his nature photography on Powder Valley’s gi ant video wall, which is comprised of nine interlinked 55-inch LED screens. The video display is 4K resolution and capable of bringing images to life in an immersive way.

“Noppadol Paothong on The Art of Close-Up Pho tography” is free and open to ages 12 and up, but advanced online registration is required at https:// short.mdc.mo.gov/4pQ.

Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center is lo cated at 11715 Cragwold Road in Kirkwood, near the intersection of I-44 and I-270.

Updated bivalent COVID booster, flu vaccines now available at Affinia Healthcare

Individuals needing the recently approved COVID-19 bivalent vaccine booster can get it at Affinia Healthcare.

Affinia Healthcare has received the new Pfizer COVID vaccine bivalent boosters, which are designed to protect against the original COVID-19 strain and the Omicron variant (BA.4 and BA.5).

Affinia Healthcare also has this season’s influenza vaccine, which can be given alongside the COVID-19 booster vaccine. Please note:

• The bivalent boosters are available for individuals 12 years and up.

• Must have completed a first series with the original type of vaccine.

• Individuals can get the COVID-19 booster at least two months after the first series of any other COVID booster.

• Original COVID vaccines for first series will no longer to be used for booster doses.

The monovalent mRNA COVID-19 vaccines are no longer authorized for use as boosters in people ages 12 and older.

Community COVID-19 testing

Affinia Healthcare is also providing COVID-19 test ing for the community on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 to 10 a.m., at its 1717 Biddle Street location near down town St. Louis. No appointment is necessary. Upon ar riving at Affinia Healthcare, please park, then call 314443-5874. A staff member will respond and assist the person making the request.

Gateway Arch National Park hosts annual Arch-builders reunion

The builders of the Gateway Arch will reunite in celebration of the day the final piece of the Arch was put into place and monument was completed. On Oct. 29, the National Park Service will host Gateway Arch National Park’s annual “Meet the Builders” event from 10 a.m. to noon in the Arch tram lobby, in which the public can meet the engi neers, tradesmen and support staff who contributed to the construction of the Gateway Arch.

The Arch was completed 57 years ago, on Oct. 28, 1965.

“As we reflect on 57 years of the Gate way Arch, we are reminded of the histo ry it represents and the many stories it tells, from St. Louis’ role in the westward expansion of the United States and those who shaped American history, to the builders who worked for years to con struct it, to what it means to us today,” says Pam Sanfilippo, Program Manag er, Museum Services & Interpretation, Gateway Arch National Park. “Our an

nual Meet the Builders event is the op portunity to meet history and hear sto ries of the Arch’s construction.”

At the event, a small group of builders will share memories, private memora bilia and photographs with attendees, and sign autographs. The Arch Store, lo cated in the Arch tram lobby, will sell $1 commemorative posters for autograph ing. This is a free event that is open to all ages.

Additionally, a special video featur ing interviews with multiple builders will play in advance of each screen ing of “Monument to the Dream,” the award-winning documentary that chronicles the construction of the Arch. “Monument to the Dream” plays at the top of every hour in the Arch’s Tucker Theater. (The interviews will also show on the screens in the tram lobby.) Vis itors are encouraged to explore the “Building the Arch” exhibit gallery in the always-free Museum at the Gateway Arch and take the Tram Ride to the Top.

Spicebush pupa by Noppadol Paothong.

Photo courtesy Missouri Department of Conservation

A different kind of happy endingStill In This Together:

It all started a few weeks ago when I woke to an un mistakable sound of autumn at our house. We have a pear tree outside our bedroom window that has beau tiful snowflake blossoms in the spring and small hard berries in the fall. When there is the tiniest bit of wind, the berries fall to the ground with a loud clunk, even louder when they hit the air conditioning unit, and then there is the sound of the rapid running of squirrels on the roof as they rush to gather the berries and bury them in the flower pots, recesses at the base of the tree, and little mounds of grass they find in the yard.

I smiled at the reminder that heat and humidity were on their way out, even though the weather reports said otherwise. It’s just a matter of time when you hear the berried clunking. That musing led me to anoth er memory…the leaf jar that we always filled with fall leaves and berries and stationed by the front door as an autumn decoration. Come with me for a few para graphs as I fill you in on the origin of the leaf jar.

John had an aunt and uncle who were farmers, with cattle and corn on land just outside of Hillsboro. Their daughter, John’s cousin, married a fellow named Norvel who came from good farm stock as well, and we had wonderful July Fourth get-togethers with Norvel’s parents, friends, aunts and uncles from both families, and any neighbors who happened to be free that day. Horses and hayrides, ATVs and fireworks, barbecue and massive amounts of country cooking were all included for free.

When all the aunts and uncles were getting older and downsizing, there was a huge combined coun try-style estate sale, and my mother-in-law, sister-inlaw and the youngest of our preschoolers all drove down to be part of the festivities. There were farm equipment and furniture, clothing and boxes of sew ing essentials, kitchen paraphernalia and vacuum cleaners, huge television consoles and boxes of ran dom things tossed together into boxes all sitting out side on a beautiful country afternoon waiting to be bid on. How fun it was to be given a wooden paddle to hold up when we wanted to bid on something, and how delicious the homemade lemonade tasted as we walked around the farm yard.

I didn’t have much money to spend, but I saw an old hardbound book and an even older manual typewrit er sitting in a box of unrelated objects, and I bid on it and screamed in delight a few seconds later when I was the high (and only) bidder. I was writing another newspaper column then, and I had a few articles pub lished in magazines. The broken typewriter seemed a perfect purchase, and I intended it to be a conversa tion piece to sit on the rolltop desk in the living room. The huge glass jar in the box was intriguing, but when my mother-in-law asked what I would do with the too-large-for-a-vase, shaped almost like an old metal milk container jar, I had no clue.

Until a few weeks later, when the kids and I were walking in the common ground for our usual after noon of catching leaves as they blew from the big old cottonwood tree behind our yard, searching for the largest, the prettiest and the most colorful leaves to gather, small branches with leaves and berries still at tached, and assorted other outdoor goodies that we typically left on the patio. I remembered the giant glass jar, sitting unused and purposeless in the base ment, and we were able to fit all of the outdoor gath erings into it that year and many years after that, and

it sat ceremoniously alongside the front door as an autumn family decoration. There were always friend ly competitions to find the largest, the smallest, the prettiest and the most unusually colored leaf…and the results were amazing.

Now, this many years later, I lay listening to the berries falling, and tried to remember what had hap pened to the jar. I know it isn’t with my other fall decorations, but I don’t recall it breaking, either. I called and texted our four kids, and all of them had wonderful memories of the leaf jar and how they had competed to make it more beautiful than the year be fore. Adam remembered the leaf he found that was so big it had to be gently folded to fit inside and Chris remembered counting exactly fifteen berries to add to the jar the year he turned fifteen, but none of them currently have it in their possession.

It would have been a wonderful ending if I could have found it or remembered where the leaf jar might be, but just talking with each of the kids about their memories of it gave me a different kind of happy ending.

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

By Vicki Bahr

Grand reopening celebration marks completion of new Merchants Bridge

The 133-year-old Merchants Bridge celebrated its official grand reopening Sept. 15, following the com pletion of a landmark $222 million project to replace the vital artery that links Missouri and Illinois near downtown St. Louis. Dating back to the 1890s, the Merchants Bridge serves six Class I railroads and Am trak as a bridge crossing across the Mississippi River at St. Louis, and replacement of the structure has been the bi-state St. Louis region’s top freight infrastructure priority since 2016.

The event marked the culmination of almost a decade of planning and advocacy and four years of reconstruc tion to modernize this critical infrastructure over the Mississippi River, which is one of the nation’s primary east-west rail corridors serving one of America’s largest rail hubs by car interchange volume and gross tonnage. This project will double the capacity on the bridge, so it can facilitate two freight trains at the same time and move freight faster, more cost-effectively and more re liably, providing a viable alternative to larger congested rail hubs like Chicago.

Elected officials and transportation leaders from Illinois and Missouri gathered with representatives from Terminal Railroad Association of St. Louis (TRRA), Bi-State Development/St. Louis Region al Freightway, Bank of America St. Louis and Walsh Construction for the celebration, which was attend ed by approximately 150 invited guests. U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senator Roy Blunt (RMO) and Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Ad ministrator Amit Bose were unable to attend but sent their congratulations in the form of a video message shared during the official program.

“The improvements made to the Merchants Bridge will further strengthen the St. Louis region’s critical role in moving goods around the country,” said Blunt. “Missouri’s location is one of our greatest economic advantages. The Mississippi River Valley is the biggest piece of contiguous farmland in the world and our state is where the nation’s major waterways, highways, and railways come together. I was proud to advocate for the investment necessary to improve this historic bridge and double its freight capacity. I congratulate all of the

local leaders and stakeholders who were instrumental in getting this project done and look forward to seeing its positive impact on the region for decades to come.”

“Merchant’s Bridge is a vital link for freight and pas senger rail in St. Louis and Illinois and beyond, and this reopening is a shining example of how the private sector, states, and the federal government can work together to deliver impactful projects,” said FRA Ad ministrator Amit Bose. “FRA will support many more projects like the Merchant’s Bridge, and thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we’re going to keep in vesting in faster, safer, and more accessible rail infra structure.”

Freight infrastructure needs and supply chain challenges have been top of mind in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, but TRRA’s work to deliver this project began long before the pandemic disrupted global supply chains in ways never before seen.

“In our 133-year history, TRRA had never previously built a bridge, but we were looking to the future and the growth in freight volumes expected in the next 30 years and knew that replacing the Merchants Bridge and adding the needed capacity would be essential for us to capture some of that increased volume and solid ify the region’s positioning as global freight hub,” said Asim Raza, Chief Legal Officer, Director of Corporate Affairs for Terminal Railroad Association of St. Louis, which owns the bridge. “Our collaboration with the St. Louis Regional Freightway to position this project as the region’s No. 1 infrastructure project priority helped garner the national attention needed to secure federal funding, and today’s celebration is a signature moment to highlight the success of the bi-state, bi-partisan, pub lic-private partnership that made this project possible.”

The Merchants Bridge required reconstruction due to speed, clearance and load restrictions. Not replac ing the Merchants Bridge would have resulted in rail traffic being rerouted out of the bi-state St. Louis re gion, potentially limiting shipping options for area rail-reliant businesses, increasing costs and lost jobs, and adding stress to an already over-burdened U.S. supply chain network.

Terminal Railroad Association (TRRA) President Brent Wood (left, holding scissors) and Venice, Illinois Mayor Tyrone Echols (right, holding scissors) officially cut the ribbon during the Grand Reopening Celebration for the Merchants Bridge on Sept. 15, as a freight train crosses the newly reconstructed bridge in the background. They are joined behind the ribbon by other elected officials and transportation leaders from Illinois and Missouri and representatives from the various partnering organizations who helped to deliver the project.

Photo Courtesy of the St. Louis Regional Freightway

Northwest Views: Tips for a healthy return to school

Summer has passed and now we are back to school. Going back to school in the last two years has not been the same, and this year will be no different. Parents, teachers and students will all have adjustments, but with everyone working together hopefully this will be a great year. Here are a few topics to help navigate re turning to school. As a reminder, be sure to schedule your child’s yearly visit with your pediatrician or fam ily doctor to keep up to date with health screenings.

Bullying: There are many different types of bully ing: physical, verbal, cyber and emotional. Make your child aware of the dangers of bullying others and edu cate them on resources available for help.

Hygiene: With all the new diseases out there, hand hygiene has never been more important. Encourage your child to wash hands after using the bathroom and whenever possible, with soap and water to reduce spread of germs. For younger children going into pu berty, discuss good hygiene skills to help as their body develops.

Face masks: Always follow the guidelines in your area for masking. Teach your children to be accept ing of others who choose to mask at school even with an optional mask policy. We don’t always know other people’s home situations. It is also very important not

to send your child to school if he or she is sick. Call your child’s doctor for an evaluation.

Sleep: Summertime can get us out of a proper sleep routine. Keep electronics out of the bedroom at night. Set alarms on regular clocks to avoid cell phones in the room. Keep the same daily routines.

Friends: Reconnecting with friends or making new ones is also important. Social interactions are an im portant part of your child’s mental health. Help facil itate healthy relationships and get to know your chil dren’s friends.

Social media: Have candid conversations about so cial media. Know which sites your child uses. Edu cate them about the dangers of social media and keep track of their contacts.

Checking in: Talk to your children about their day and what they have been doing. Kids, especially teen agers, often don’t divulge a wealth of information, so make a point to discuss your day with them as well. Keep an open channel of communication.

I sincerely hope that everyone has a wonderful and safe return to school this year. We are happy to be available at St. Luke’s for our patients, their families and the community.

Ladue Schools and LEF honor 29 distinguished alumni

Ladue Schools and the Ladue Education Foun dation and Alumni As sociation recognized a new class of Ladue Hor ton Watkins High School (LHWHS) Distinguished Alumni on Sept. 22.

To mark the 70th an niversary of LHWHS, 29 individuals were honored for excellence in their ca reers and contributions to their communities.

The 2022 LHWHS Dis tinguished Alumni are: Arts: Susan Schmidt Whiddington ’66, Nancy Siegel Burson ’66, Hollye Levin ’72, Ingrid Jacoby ’77, Thom Wall ‘05

Business: Gerald Held, Ph.D. ’66, Kevin Mundt ’72, Margaret Tiller Sherwood ’72, James Hamilton ’73, Scott Redler ‘78

Education: Debbie Schwartz Garden ’60, Dr. Patricia Donohue ’63, Dr. Edward M. Johnson, Jr. ‘87 Government, Political Science, and Law: Dr. Eliza beth Losos ’81, Don Calloway ’97, Miriam Estrin ‘04

Journalism: William Greenblatt ’72, Ben Solomon ’06, Ariana Tobin ‘07

Medicine: Elissa Newport, Ph.D. ’65, Dr. John D. Hirsch ‘66 (dec.), Dr. Joan Rosenberg ’73, Andrew Bremer, M.D., Ph.D. ‘90

Philanthropy: Carol Weisman, M.S.W., C.S.P. ’67,

Sally Sachar ‘77

Science: Richard Rothschild ’61, Jonathan Losos, Ph.D. ‘80

Sports: Jim Parker ’61, Becky Sauerbrunn ‘03

The evening featured comments from all honorees in attendance along with performances from Jacoby, Levin, and Wall. Distinguished alumni then partici pated in a career discussion with LHWHS students on Sept. 23 and were recognized at halftime of that night’s home football game versus Parkway North.

The Ladue Horton Watkins High School Distin guished Alumni program began in 2002 to commem orate the school’s 50th anniversary. Thirty-five alumni were recognized for making significant accomplish ments in their career fields. This honor was again be stowed on an additional 23 alumni for the 60th anni versary in 2012.

By Dr. Puja M. Natesan

Puja M. Natesan, MD, MPH, is a board-certified family medicine physician at Ballwin Family Med icine, part of St. Luke’s Medical Group. For more information on Dr. Natesan’s practice or to sched ule an appointment, call 636-6857770.

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

Photo courtesy Ladue School District

EVENTS

Oct. 20-22: Book sale

FLIERS’ (Friends of the Fer guson Municipal Public Li brary) Book Sale will take place on Thursday, Oct. 20 from 4 until 7:30 p.m.; Fri day, Oct. 21 from 9 a.m. until 5:30 p.m., and Saturday, Oct. 22 from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. in the library auditorium at 35 N. Florissant Road in Fergus on. Masks are required per library protocol. Included in the sale are fiction, non-fic

tion, art books and jigsaw puzzles. Call 314-521-4663 for more information.

Nov. 5: Rummage sale

The rummage sale is on at Calvary United Church of Christ at 2501 Hartland Avenue in Sycamore Hills. Hours of operation will be from 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. For everyone’s safety, the church is encouraging the wearing of masks.

Nov. 5: Fundraiser gala

Assistance League of St. Louis will host Imagine! Puttin’ On The Glitz Gala at the Doubletree by Hilton Chesterfield. The gala is the largest single fundraiser for Assistance League St. Louis, an all-volunteer organization whose mission is to provide programs and services to the underserved in the St. Louis metropolitan area. Event timeline: 6 p.m. – Registra tion, 6:15 p.m. – Cocktails and Silent Auction, 7:30 p.m. – Dinner and 8:15 p.m. - Live Auction. If interested in at tending, please call Assist ance League at 636-227-6200.

Nov 6: Quilt Bingo

St. Ferdinand Ladies Sodal ity Quilt Bingo, doors open 11a.m., games begin at 1 p.m. in School Gym at 1735 Charbonier Rd. in Florissant. Twelve beautiful hand-quilt ed quilts, cash prizes, raffle, pull tabs and refreshments available. Cash only and no one under 16 years of age.

RECURRING EVENTS

Weekdays: Food pantry volunteers needed

The Harvey Kornblum Jew ish 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 Chris tian 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 in formation call Marty at 636579-9227, or email concer tartsa@gmail.com.

Mondays: City council meetings

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

Mondays: Workshop meetings

City of Pine Lawn holds regu lar 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 fourpart harmony a capella (with out accompaniment). We sing some traditional songs, as well as show tunes and more contemporary music. We do perform for the public at various functions. Persons interested can come right on in or for more information call Al at 314-993-6134.

Mondays: Korean War Veterans Association meeting

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

Mondays-Thursdays: Vol unteers 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 avail able. If you are interested, please contact Cheryl Piece at 314-446-4440 or cpiece@ caastlc.org for additional in formation.

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. Max imum 150 players. Must wear mask to enter. Social distan cing followed.

Tuesdays: A cappella singers

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

They try to do public events monthly. Always looking for new members. Come by or call 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 infor mation call 314-831-0988.

Tuesdays: Celebrate Re covery

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 Floris sant. For more information visit www.lifepointminis tries.church/celebrate-recov ery or call (men) Steve D. at 636-634-6582 or (women) Denise W. at 530-417-6151.

Tuesdays: Choir rehears als

The St. Louis Chordinals, a women’s a cappella chor us, rehearse every Tuesday evening from 7 - 9:30 p.m. at Beautiful Savior Luther an Church at 12397 Natur al Bridge Rd. in Bridgeton (next to the Bridgeton Gov ernment Center). For more information call Linda at 314-839-3495 or visit stloui schordinals.org.

Tuesdays: TOPS (Take off pounds sensibly)

From 9:15 - 10:30 a.m. lo cated at John F. Kennedy Center/Henry Koch Ctr., Howdershell Rd. at Char bonier Rd., Florissant. For more info contact Paul Mc Connell, 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, em broidery, cross stitch, and more.

Every 4th Tuesday of the month: Fort Bellefon taine Memorial Amer ican Legion Post 335 meeting 6:30pm, Fort Bellefontaine Memorial American Legion Post 335, at the Bellefontaine Neighbors Community Cen ter at 9669 Bellefontaine Rd. Those interested in member ship are invited to attend.

Wednesdays: Bingo Bingo takes place every Wed nesday at American Legion Post 338 at 9655 Midland

Blvd. in Overland. Doors open at 5 p.m. For more in formation 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 con tact 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 314-921-2316.

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.

Florissant Senior Cit izens’ Bingo Clubs: 314839-7604.

Every 1st Wednesday of the Month: Stroke Sup port Group 3-4 p.m., Center for Senior Renewal, Detrick Building 1st floor, 11133 Dunn Rd. For more information, contact Ja mie Stevens at 314-653-5331.

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

Thursdays: Quilting guild

Every third Thursday of the month the Flower Valley Quilting Guild meets at 7 p.m. in the old school at the Old St. Ferdinand Shrine, 1 Rue St. Francois, Florissant.

Thursdays: Blood pressure checks

Free blood pressure checks monthly at Life Care Center of Florissant at 1201 Garden Plaza Dr. (off Parker Rd.) in Floris sant every third Thursday of the month. Call 831-3752 for more information.

Thursdays: Women’s chorus meeting

Every Thursday City Voices Cho rus, a women’s chorus singing four-part a cappella harmony, meets at Church of the Good Shepherd at 1166 S. Mason Rd. in St. Louis. Members come from the entire bi-state region. Call Marcia at 636-274-0723 for more information or visit www. cityvoiceschorus.org.

Fridays: Fish fry

St. Ferdinand Fish Fry at 1765 Charbonier Rd. in Florissant, has resumed every Friday from 3 - 7 p.m.

Fridays: Fish fry

A fish fry takes place every Fri day at American Legion Post 338 at 9655 Midland Blvd. in Overland from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information contact Chairman Ed Hilleman at 314660-1813.

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

Every 3rd Friday of the month: Bingo 2 p.m., Life Care Center of Floris sant, 1201 Garden Plaza Dr. For more information, call 314-8313752.

Saturdays: Yoga

Yoga returns to Calvary UCC at 2501 Hartland Avenue, on Saturdays from 10:30-11:30. Masks and social distancing are required in the building and participants should bring hand sanitizer with them. For further information call Angela at 314801-8594.

Saturdays: Toastmasters meeting

Everyone is welcome to attend Toastmasters Saturdays 9 to 10:30 a.m. at Normandy United Methodist Church at 8001 Natu ral Bridge Road (across from UMSL). For more info call 314402-7025.

Saturdays: Free walk-in clinic

Salam Clinic at St. Peter’s United Church of Christ at 1425 Stein Road at West Florissant in Fergu son is a free walk-in clinic open Saturdays from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. The clinic is jointly sponsored by the Muslim Community of St. Louis (MCSL) and St. Peter’s

United Church of Christ to pro vide basic adult medical screen ing, treatment and referrals free of charge for the uninsured.

For more information or if you would be interested in volunteer ing, please call 314-521-5694 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday – Friday or visit www.stpeterschurch.org.

Saturdays: Clothing sale

On the second Saturday of each month Bethany-Peace UCC at 11952 Bellefontaine Rd. in St. Louis County hosts a clothing sale from 9 - 11 a.m. For sale are used clothing and shoes, some household items, books and toys. Fill your bag for $1.

Saturdays: Grief support

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

Every Fourth Saturday’s Writer’s Workshop

10 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. at Baden Li brary, at 8448 Church Rd. For more information call 314-3882400.

Sundays: AMVETS meat shoot

Sundays in September through April, AMVETS Post 55, located on 8842 Natural Bridge Rd. in Bel-Ridge will be hosting meat shoots with practice beginning at 11 a.m. and rounds starting at noon. Shooters must be 18 or older and will shoot #9’s with no bull barrels or scopes and 675 minimum chokes. The shoot ing area is indoors and food and drink are available in the club room. For more information, contact 314-630-2671 or 314-3307269.

Sundays: Jennings Do-Dads meeting

The Jennings Do-Dads hold meetings every third Sunday of the month (except June which is the second Sunday and no

meeting in December) at 1 p.m. at Classics Bar & Grill at 11601 West Florissant Avenue. Those interested in membership are invited to attend. For more in formation visit www.jennings dodads.org.

CHURCH

Tuesdays & Thursdays: Chap el of the Cross Lutheran Church GriefShare Support Group

Tuesdays from 2 - 4pm and Thursday from 6:30 - 8:30pm, 11645 Benham Rd., 314-7413737.

HEALTH

Every Mon. & Tues.: Healthy Meal Replacement (HMR) Program Orientation Mondays: 6–7pm Tuesdays: Noon–1pm SSM DePaul Well ness Center. Attend a free orien tation to learn: the Five Success Variables needed to lose weight, different diet options available and how important physical activity really is. Please call to register at 1-877-477-6954.

1st Tuesday of Every Month: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group Meeting

Meeting to be held at Sarah Care of Bridgeton Adult Day Center 11977 St. Charles Rock Road, Suite 121-124, Bridgeton, MO 63044. Join our Support Group for Mutual, Emotional Support and Education. You are not alone. For information, contact Deborah Mabrie at 314-291-5210 or Ferd Fetsch at 314-291-3021 Email: dbland@sarahcare.com ferdfetsch@sbcglobal.net.

Every third Tuesday of every month: Grief Support Group sponsored by DePaul Hospi tal 11:30am-1pm, Maryland Hgts. Comm. Ctr., 2300 McKelvey Rd. For more information, call 314344-6873.

Wednesdays: ACES Schizo phrenia Support Group 6:30 - 7:30pm, 314-839-3171.

Sundays: Alcoholics An onymous Group 109 11th floor conference room at Christian Hospital, 10am, 11133 Dunn Road.

Diabetes Basics: 314-344-7024 for info or 314-3447220 to enroll.

Crisis Nursery: Committed to preventing child abuse and neglect, the Crisis Nursery provides short-term, safe havens to children, birth through age 12, whose fam ilies are faced with an emer gency or crisis. Care is available year-round and serves fam ilies throughout the greater St. Charles region. 24-hour helpline: 314-768-3201. Or 636-947-0600, www.crisisnurserykids.org.

Center for Senior Renewal: Day treatment programs for older adults dealing with anx iety, depression, grief, loss and early signs of dementia, 314-6535123.

Nutrition Education: SSM DePaul registered dieticians can help you make sure your diet is right for you, 314-344-6157.

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

Volunteers Needed at Chris tian Hospital: Call 314-6535032.

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

Look Good…Feel Better SSM Cancer Care at DePaul Health Center, 12303 DePaul Drive. Radiation Oncology Bridgeton. Attend a great make up session sponsored by the American Cancer Society. A

licensed cosmetologist teaches a session of scarf tying, shows a parade of hats, and provides each participant with a makeup kit. Light refreshments are served. Info: 314-344-6090.

SilverSneakers Senior Well ness Program at the Mary land Heights Centre

A fun, energizing program that helps older adults take greater control of their health by en couraging physical activity and offering social events. A Silver Sneakers membership includes access to the city’s Fitness Cen tre with state-of-the-art fitness equipment and circuit training. Membership is available at little or no cost through your health plan. To find out if you are eli gible, visit www.silversneakers.

com or call 314-738-2599.

Smoking Cessation Classes: Free ongoing 8-week sessions, 866-SSM-DOCS to register or for more information.

SSM DePaul Wellness Center: Classes available on strength training, nutrition and smoking cessation, 314-344-6177.

Free Mammogram Screen

ings:

SSM Health Care free mam mogram screenings to women who have no health insurance. Appointments at 300 First Cap itol Drive in St. Charles and SSM St. Joseph Hospital West, 100 Medical Plaza in Lake Saint Louis, 636-947-5617.

CROSSWORD

Sports you see with Gary B...

Lindenwood gets first victory with men’s hockey in Division 1

Lindenwood Uni versity’s hockey team earned its first win as a NCAA Division I program over Air Force.

The men’s hockey team scored five un answered goals, in

cluding three in the third period to pick up a 7-6 win over Air Force in their first Division I home game on Friday night from Centene Community Ice Center in Maryland Heights.

Air Force got on the board first, grabbing a 1-0 lead at the 6:28 mark of the opening period. Lindenwood responded shortly after, netting the equalizer just over two minutes later as David Gagnon finished off a one-timer on the man advantage, assisted by Ryan Finnegan and Kyle Jeffers. A minute later, the Lions grabbed the lead when Andy Willis found the back of the net, giving the Lions a 2-1 lead. Kieran Ruschiens ki and Mitch Allard picked up assists on the goal. The Falcons tied the game late in the period as the score was 2-2 after 20 minutes of play.

Air Force scored four quick goals in the second pe riod to jump out to a 6-2 lead. The Lions kept battling, as Max Neill cut the lead to 6-3 at the 13:08 mark of the frame. He was assisted by Adam Conquest and Caleb Price. Lindenwood earned a late powerplay op portunity, which they converted. Jeffers was assisted by Willis and Joe Prouty on the man advantage with 58 seconds left, cutting the lead to 6-4, which would be the score after 40 minutes of play.

The score remained 6-4 in favor of the Falcons until Hunter Johannes injected life into the building, scor ing a shorthanded goal at the 12:54 mark of the final period. Shortly after Gagnon scored again, assisted by Finnegan and Coltan Wilkie on the powerplay, tying the game 6-6. Lindenwood pushed for the go-ahead goal and got it with less than two minutes to go as Finnegan was assisted by Drew Kuzma and Gagnon, taking the 7-6 lead. The Lions withstood an empty-net push from the Falcons, picking up their first NCAA

Division I win

Leader of the pack:

• Gagnon (two goals, one assist)

• Ryan Finnegan (one goal, two assists)

• Andy Willis (one goal, one assist)

*Great start in the new league

Lindenwood football team took down Central Ar kansas on the road

The Lions took the ball to start the game, as a 63yard run by Andrew Martin on the first play set the tone.

Cade Brister later ran the ball in for six-yards out to take an early 7-0 lead.

The Lindenwood offense continued to roll, as the Brister capped off an eight-play, 75-yard drive with his one-yard touchdown run. After another Bears touchdown to tie the game, Lindenwood came back with a 10-play drive. Brister found Kobe Smith for a 14-yard pitch and catch to make it a 28-21 lead for the Lions. Central Arkansas answered the bell each time, and tied the game at 28-28 nearing the end of the half. Lindenwood was able to sneak in another one-yard touchdown run by Brister to take a 35-28 lead after 30 minutes of football.

“There is no doubt we’re going to watch film and see the things that we need to keep improving on,” said head coach Jed Stugart. “But, sometimes a team just needs to figure out a way to win. I know we didn’t get a lot of stops defensively tonight, but they stepped up and got the stops when it counted. That’s figuring out a way to win.”

*Kept the momentum until the end

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 activi ties. 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.

1

Recipe: A sweet treat for fall

Ingredients:

Nonstick

Directions:

Preheat

In

Movie:

By Steve Bryan

Pumpkin Bread with Chocolate Chips

Pour

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.

Falling in love with movie theaters: The Granada Theater

People love many di verse things: puppies, babies, friends, money and good books. But is it possible to fall in love with a theater? Speaking for myself, I became enchanted with the Granada Theater on the South Side of St. Lou is when I was still in grade school. In the 1970s, several movie theaters were operating in the area, includ ing the Kingsland and the Avalon, but I always stopped to see what was playing at the Granada, especially when they had a double feature. According to “Cinema Treasures,” a great theater resource, the Grana da opened in 1927 with the Ronald Coleman film “Beau Geste.” Over the years, the theater opened and closed under new management more than once, even becoming a dollar theater at one point. The Granada closed for good in 1986 after showing the Michael Keaton/ Gedde Watanabe comedy “Gung Ho.” There were attempts to restore the theater, but it was razed in December 1992.

Granada Theatre

Looking back at this almost-forgotten landmark, the Granada really was an inter esting place to see a movie. In 1982, when the first “Porky’s” movie came to town, Bevo Area residents lined up to see what the fuss was all about. (They learned quickly!) Long lines of patrons waited on the sidewalk hop ing to find open seats inside. The Granada

also hosted Three Stooges movies and lots of Disney films featuring Kurt Russell, Don Knotts and Tim Conway.

Going to the Granada also was education al. Lou Jobst, my high school religious study teacher, shared his insights about “Close En counters of the Third Kind,” a science-fic tion epic that packed theaters. A talented musician, Lou spoke to our class about the power of music and how it can break down

communication barriers, even when visitors from outer space were involved. The Granada also showed Martin Scorsese’s docu mentary “The Last Waltz,” which covered the last performance of the Canadian/American group called the Band.

There were times, howev er, when the Granada Theater struggled to hang on. There was enough family fare on the sec ond-run circuit to fill seats, but the movie industry was chang ing. After closing for a while, we were able to see Mel Brooks’ com edy “Blazing Saddles” when they reopened. George Lucas’ “Star Wars” made it to the South Side in 1978 and packed the Granada once again. When I was in high school, I even saw “Animal House,” much to the surprise of my classmates.

Although many people loved this theater as much as me, my heart was broken when I saw the Granada being torn down. Inside, it was beautiful and ornate with candy machines built into the lobby walls and an awesome balcony. Streaming services are fine, but I would love to go back and spend some quality time with the theater that I really loved.

If you, like me, were fond of a specific the ater, let us know.

TO

PET CEMETERY

October is the time of year when that giant orbital fruit (insert your least favorite politician’s name here) takes over the entire month. No, I don’t mean (politician’s name again), of course I’m talking about that massive bucket-o-chunk, the pumpkin.

However, did such a funny squash get so high up in the rankings that an entire month has become dedicat ed to its flubbery flesh?

Apparently, according to Irish folklore, a chap named Stringy Jack made a deal with the devil then double crossed him. You really don’t want to do that. So, when Jack died the devil was spittin’ mad. So mad that he wasn’t allowed downstairs to the fiery furnace. Well, ap parently God was in a tiff as well and wouldn’t allow him upstairs to the pleasantly air-conditioned clouds either.

Stringy Jack was then forced to wander the earth in an eternal night with a burning coal inside a carvedout turnip to light his way. Thus, his name; Jack of the Lantern, or now, Jack-O-Lantern.

From then on, kids began to carve up turnips and beets and potatoes with the most terrifying and hid eous faces. They were placed on their doorsteps to ward off Stringy Jack and other unwanted visitors.

That is, until one day the mothers of the house stomped their feet, threw a fit and each declared, “Aye then, how am I supposed to make me Irish stew if all me finest vegetables are cut up to look like me motherin-law rottin’ away on the stoop?!”

“Aw, but Ma,” cried the sad Irish children. “Whatever

As parents, one of your top priorities is the safe ty and well-being of your children. With all the potential pitfalls of day-to-day life, however, navigating the risks can be difficult.

These everyday safety tips can help you navigate ev erything from car seat safety to baby-proofing and safe sleep, keeping your child out of harm’s way as much as possible from birth through his or her toddler years.

Car seat safety

• Always use a valid (typically less than 6 years old), federally approved car seat in motor vehicles.

• Ensure the seat is properly installed. Refer to the in struction manual with any questions.

• If you use an infant carrier, strap your child in on the floor, never a counter or tabletop.

• For at least the first two years of your child’s life, the car seat should be rear-facing.

• The safest location for a car seat is in the middle of the back seat.

Choking prevention

• Avoid giving your child nuts, popcorn, hard candies, hot dogs and raw fruits and vegetables, such as grapes or carrots, that may present a choking hazard.

• Never prop up a bottle and leave your baby unattended.

• Inspect toys often to ensure they’re not broken and do not have small pieces that could easily become de tached.

• Be cautious of strings and buttons on clothing.

Safe sleep

• The safest place for your baby to sleep is on his or her back, which reduces the risk for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

• Avoid placing anything in the crib or bassinet that may suffocate your child, such as pillows, blankets or

By Cindy Moore CROSSWORD:

will we cut up to chase away the wicked wanderers and fiendish visitors?”

Suddenly, the mothers had an idea and said, “Go now children, gather up them big worthless orange gourds in the garden which taste of rubbish and are round like yer father’s beer belly.”

Thus, the practice of cutting up perfectly good veg gies came to a halt and the carving of perfectly useless pumpkins came about.

And this is why we still place these monstrous, toothy, grotesque carvings lit up with candles on our porches during this time of year, to ward off demons, evil do ers and fiendish visitors; which inadvertently coincides with the mid-terms and those politicians making doorto-door house calls.

Coincidence? I think not.

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 Humor ist: someone who unearths ab surdity and hilarity in strange and unusual places including public restrooms, the lint filter, and church meetings. Most recent ly, 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.

bumpers.

• Keep your child’s room at a moderate temperature and dress him or her appropriately to avoid overheating.

• Never leave your baby alone on a bed, couch, chang ing table, swing or infant seat.

Water safety

• Set your hot water heater no higher than 120 F.

• Test the temperature of bath water before setting your baby in the tub.

• Never leave your baby unattended in the bathtub.

• Keep toilet lids down and consider installing toilet lid locks.

Baby-proofing

• Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors on ev ery level of your home and in every sleeping area.

• Secure cords on blinds and drapes out of reach.

• Keep sharp objects, such as knives, scissors and tools, and other hazardous items, like coins, beads and pins, in a secure place out of baby’s reach.

• Store cleaning products and medications in locked cabinets. Never store potentially toxic substances in containers that could be mistaken for food or drink.

• Cover all electrical outlets.

• Cushion hard edges and sharp corners of furniture and decor.

• Secure cords to electrical items along baseboards us ing electrical tape.

• Attach heavy or tall furniture to the wall and avoid placing items that could fall, like electronics or lamps, on top of dressers or shelves.

Install safety gates with straight, vertical slats securely in front of all stairwells.

more tips and ideas to keep your children safe at

and on the go at eLivingtoday.com.