CN: November 16, 2022

By Wendy Todd

Diabetes is the seventh-leading cause of death across the country and in Missouri. According to the World Health Organiza tion (WHO), the number of people with diabetes rose from 108 million in 1980 to 422 million in 2014. Over 95% of those with diabetes have Type II (non-insu lin-dependent or adult-onset).

Socioeconomic factors play a signif icant role in managing diabetes as ac cess to affordable healthcare, medication and healthy foods can be challenging for

low-income individuals. WHO data shows the rise of the disease within low to mid dle-income countries is higher than in high-income countries.

A new partnership between the St. Lou is nonprofit, Food Outreach and Mercy Hospital, one of the 25 largest U.S. health systems, has been created to launch an ini tiative that will assist eligible patients of the hospital with Type II diabetes who are experiencing food insecurity by providing medically-tailored meals.

The pilot program will include 100 Mer cy patients, serving those in St. Louis, St.

Louis County, St. Charles County and Jef ferson County. Participants will receive two free medically-tailored, from-scratch meals each day, as well as groceries and fresh produce for a year. Patients will also receive free medical nutrition therapy from registered dietitians.

Meals can either be delivered to patients or picked up at the Food Outreach grocery center where they can also order groceries from the nonprofit’s menu. All the services will be provided at no cost.

NORTHWEST VIEWS. Pg. 5

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Food Outreach is the only nonprofit offering medically-tai lored meals and nutrition counseling for those living with HIV and cancer in Missouri and western Illinois. It’s currently serv ing over 1,400 people. Its model of addressing the nutritional needs of people battling life-threatening illnesses is the only one in the greater St. Louis region. The nonprofit hopes the initiative will help ameliorate complications from untreated Type II diabetes.

“A nutrient-rich diet is the cornerstone to maintaining op timal health and managing illness. Medically-tailored meals based on the diagnostic needs of our patients with uncon trolled Type II diabetes will help improve their overall well-be ing,” said Dr. Gretchen Shull, medical director for Diabetes Care across Mercy. “By taking a proactive approach in work ing with Food Outreach, an organization with a proven track record of providing medically tailored meals and nutrition counseling for individuals with chronic illness, we are working to keep our patients healthier and out of the hospital.”

Eligibility requirements of the program include having a blood sugar level of eight or greater and living at or below 300% of the 2022 Federal Poverty Level.

Julie Lock, executive director of Food Outreach, believes this initiative and partnership with Mercy Hospital is an import ant step in assisting those who lack the resources to effectively manage their health outcomes with diabetes.

“Our community partnership with Mercy is vitally im portant for these patients, Food Outreach and the St. Louis region,” she said. “Our missions align to focus on improving health outcomes and serving people struggling with chronic illness and economic fragility. It’s our hope this pilot will help us demonstrate positive outcomes so more people can receive these nutritional interventions and the care of Mercy’s clinical teams.”

A new partnership between the St. Louis nonprofit, Food Outreach and Mercy Hospital has been created to launch an initia tive that will assist eligible patients of the hospital with Type II diabetes who are experi encing food inse curity by providing medically-tailored meals.

COMMUNITY VOICES:

By Dr. Joseph S. Davis

Equity and access for all in Ferguson-Florissant School District

One of the most exciting parts of working in education is a fresh start every year. I al ways get excited about the start of a new year. It takes me back to those first days of school each year as I was growing up. It’s a time to press reset for the year ahead.

As a district, we have reached some excit ing milestones. Over the past two years, the district and our school change teams listened to students, families, staff and community members to develop the district’s anti-racist standards. With the guidance and leader ship of our board of education, we included a broad group of stakeholder voices in the process. In January of 2022, the Board adopt ed the Ferguson-Florissant School District Anti-Racist Standards. These standards will serve as a guide to pursuing equity, disman tling racist systems within the district and ensuring all of our students have access to the highest quality education.

The development of the anti-racist stan dards worked in tandem with the board ini tiated strategic planning process to guide the district through 2027 and beyond. The dis trict has developed a new mission, vision and core values as the foundation for our strate gic plan. Ferguson-Florissant’s new strategic plan, “Equity and Access For All,” incorpo

rates the newly developed anti-racist stan dards, our graduate profile and the Missouri state standards or MSIP-6. The new strategic plan is guided by the mission “to provide high-quality instruction to every student in every neighborhood while prioritizing equity and compassionate relationships.” Each year of the plan, specific and measurable action steps will be developed, and the district will focus on six priority goal areas:

• Academics Pre K-6

• Academics 7-12 and Postsecondary Suc cess

• Well-Being

• People and Culture/Human Capital

• Financial and Operational Stewardship

• Community Engagement and Communi cation

Weaving all of the MSIP-6 standards into the strategic plan gives it strength like a wo ven braid that is stronger than its individual strands. Developing the anti-racist standards prior to and separate from the strategic plan provided a lens to guide the plan and posi tions the district to work toward a future that ensures equity for all students and the com

munity we serve.

We have come so far these last eight years, and I am excited about where our work will take us. There is still more to be accomplished in order to ensure all of our students have ac cess to the highest quality education, but this work together with the strengthening of our curriculum and instruction has positioned us so that as our new vision says, all learners will graduate believing that anything is possible and prepared to realize those possibilities.

Dr. Joseph S. Davis began serving the Fer guson-Florissant School District as Superinten dent on July 1, 2015.

Prior to that, he served as Superintendent of Washington County schools in North Caro lina and Deputy Chief of Schools for Chicago Public Schools. Davis has over 30 years of experience in education starting as a bus driver before teaching middle and high school mathematics and serving as as sistant principal and principal at the elementa ry, middle and high school levels. Davis and his family live in Ferguson.

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.

Submitted photos

MDC opens Columbia Bottom CA to non-managed waterfowl hunting due to water pumps failing

The water pumpstation on the Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) Columbia Bottom Conserva tion Area in Spanish Lake has experienced mechanical failure due to aging infrastructure. As a result, MDC will not be able to flood and actively manage water lev els on the area for the remainder of the 2022 Waterfowl Hunting Season.

MDC staff made hunting opportunities available to waterfowl hunters who had already successfully drawn hunting spots on Columbia Bottom through Nov. 7. Due to pumping efforts prior to the failure and recent rains, pools may still hold sufficient water for water fowl hunting during this time. MDC will continue to operate the “poor line” to enable hunters not drawn to utilize any unclaimed sites as natural water levels allow.

Columbia Bottom’s ADA blind, however, will not be available for use due to its pool’s insufficient water level.

Starting Nov. 8, MDC discontinued managed water fowl hunt drawings on the area. Columbia Bottom is available for open waterfowl hunting, allocated through self-registration. Hunting opportunities on Columbia Bottom will depend exclusively on natural water levels due to rain events and fluctuating river levels.

Hunters can call the Waterfowl Hotline at 314-8776014 to check the area’s current water levels.

Hunters choosing to participate in open waterfowl hunting on Columbia Bottom should keep the follow ing in mind:

• Waterfowl hunting opportunities will be strictly on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Habitat conditions will be variable, based on natural water levels determined entirely by rain events and

river levels.

• All hunters must self-register upon arrival and pos sess a Daily Waterfowl Hunting Tag, which must be turned in at the end of the hunt.

• Waterfowl hunting will remain restricted to designat ed waterfowl hunting zones.

• Waterfowl hunting after 1 p.m. is prohibited.

• The waterfowl refuge will continue to be enforced.

Hunters requiring the use of ADA blinds may have the opportunity to utilize the ADA blind at MDC’s Marais Temps Clair Conservation Area in St. Charles. Hunters already drawn for the ADA blind at Columbia Bottom will be contacted directly to discuss possible al ternate arrangements.

All other area users should continue to respect desig nated waterfowl hunting zone boundaries through the remainder of the 2022 waterfowl hunting season.

MDC has determined that the Columbia Bottom pump system failure is the result of age and excessive wear required to manage water levels on the area for nearly two decades, along with damage caused by mul tiple flood events in recent years. The performance of the pumps has been consistent with their projected life expectancy.

MDC is currently examining options regarding fu ture waterfowl hunting opportunities on Columbia Bottom Conservation Area.

Columbia Bottom is located at 801 Strodtman Road in north St. Louis County and can be reached by tak ing the Riverview Drive Exit from I-270 and travelling north approximately three miles.

13th Annual St. Louis Teen Talent Competition registrations are officially open

Talented teens have the chance to perform before a live audience on The Fabulous Fox Theatre Stage.

Fox Performing Arts Charitable Foundation has un derwritten and produced an adjudicated competition showcasing teens of the St. Louis region. Teens are encouraged to compete in a talent category of their choice, whether they sing, dance, act, or do something eccentric. All talent is welcome.

For the chance at $8,000 towards a college schol arship, head over to FOXPACF.ORG and complete the “St. Louis Teen Talent Competition Registration Form.” From there, registrants will be able to submit details about their act.

Registration is open until Jan. 2, 2023, there are no fees to participate.

The competition is open to high school students that live within 50 miles in any direction of the St. Louis Gateway Arch. Students must be enrolled in grades nine 10, 11 or 12 during the 2022-2023 aca demic year to participate. Performers under the age of 18 will need a parent or guardian to submit a registra tion form on their behalf.

Once registration is complete, it is time to prepare for preliminaries. Here, contestants have three min utes to show the judges what they can do. The prelim round will take place at Kirkwood High School on Feb. 4 and 5, 2023.

Visit FOXPACF.ORG for the complete competition schedule and guidelines.

St. Louis Musicians for People with DisAbilities donates $1,000 to St. Louis Arc

St. Louis Arc, a nonprofit organization that provides programs and services for people and families with dis abilities, has received a $1,000 gift from St. Louis Mu sicians for People with DisAbilities, a 501C3 nonprofit group founded in July 2022.

St. Louis Arc’s mission is to empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families to lead better lives by providing a lifetime of high-quality services, family support and advocacy.

John Taylor, St. Louis Arc Vice President of Advance ment, said, “We are so grateful for the financial gift from St. Louis Musicians for People with DisAbilities. St. Louis Arc will direct the proceeds toward our orga

nization’s music therapy programs.”

The mission of St. Louis Musicians for People with DisAbilities is to provide financial and other support to people with disabilities by engaging talented perform ers in fundraising concerts to support organizations that help people who are disabled.

Jeff Dunlap, the group’s board chairman, said, “St. Louis Arc is a mighty fine organization that deserves lots of support.”

“20% of the U.S. population suffers with some form of disability that limits their opportunities,” Dunlap said. “St. Louis Musicians for People with DisAbilities wants to help change society’s perceptions about peo

ple with a disability, advance ability awareness for all people considered disabled, and endorse organizations that help them overcome challenges in today’s world.”

The charitable group’s inaugural fundraising concert on Sept. 25, called “A Hootenanny Benefit for People with DisAbilities,” raised funds that enabled the group’s donation to St. Louis Arc. Three of the eight musical acts featured performers with a disability.

“We hope to host a second fundraising concert in 2023,” said Dunlap.

To learn about St. Louis Musicians for People with DisAbilities email disAbledstl@musician.org. For St. Louis Arc visit https://www.slArc.org.

St. Louis Christmas Carols Association seeks volunteers to bring cheer and goodwill this holiday season

For the 111th year in a row, the St. Louis Christmas Carols Association will bring cheer and goodwill to neighbors during the 2022 caroling season.

Since 1911, St. Louis Christmas Carols Association (SLCCA) has spread cheer and good will throughout our St. Louis community by caroling in neighborhoods around the metro region. This season, volunteer carol ing groups will collect donations for 24 St. Louis chil dren’s charities as they bring community spirit to our neighborhood front doors and public spaces through the gift of song. Charity partners include Sherwood Forest, SouthSide Early Childhood Center, Unleashed Potential, Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri, Girls on the Run, Center for Hearing and Speech, and others.

“After several seasons which required adapting to

meet public health needs, we are all craving joy and community. Caroling is good for your body and builds relationships with friends and neighbors! For the past 111 years, all proceeds from donations collected by our volunteer carolers have been directed toward non-prof it agencies serving young people in our region. It’s a win for all involved!” said StLCCA Executive Director, Elizabeth Hogan. “We’re so excited for the 2022 carol ing season and we invite everyone to gather a group of friends, family or neighbors and come caroling with us. Come together to celebrate community with each other, and bring joy to those who may not be able to get out over this festive season. No experience is neces sary – the only qualification needed is a desire to spread cheer to those with whom we share our neighborhoods

and support kids in St. Louis.”

Despite only doing outdoor and masked caroling in 2021, 111 StLCCA volunteer caroling groups raised $27,000 for through caroling efforts, and this year we hope to make an impact on the lives of the commu nity’s children by doubling those numbers during this holiday season.

“We are looking for individuals who would like to join our efforts, and we encourage groups to sign up to sing together!” said Hogan. “It’s a fun, family-friendly activity that builds community and brings cheer and merriment, which we think is one of the best ways to celebrate the season.”

Volunteers are encouraged to sign-up online by Nov. 30 at www.stlchrismascarols.org/go-caroling.

At the Oct. 24 city council meeting, the city of Florissant was honored as another city in the state of Missouri as a Purple Heart City. The city was presented with a plaque and four large Purple Heart City signs to be placed in areas as you enter the city limits.

VFW Post 4105 worked with the mayor’s office to be able to make this happen. Command er Sydney Staton from the MOPH Chapter 125 presented Florissant with this honor.

City of Florissant honored as a Purple Heart City by the Military Order of the Purple Heart

Photo courtesy city of Florissant

Pictured above (from left) is Commander Sydney Staton of the Military Order of the Purple Heart Chapter 125, Florissant Mayor Tim Lowery, Councilman from Ward 4 Jeff Caputa, Councilman Robert Parson, Jr and Council President Joe Eagan.

BOO-tiful babies are sweeter than candy corn

There is absolutely nothing scary about these Hal loween treats at St. Luke’s Hospital. St. Luke’s is known as the “baby bunting hospital” because they have been providing themed baby buntings on holidays and spe

cial occasions since 1997. Made by nurses and volun teers, the adorable offerings are a sample of the many ways St. Luke’s Hospital provides a warm and caring environment for families.

Northwest Views: Reflections of a superintendent and father of four

By Dr. Jim Wipke

It’s interesting, isn’t it? Time seems to go by so fast, and we look back and wonder where it all went. Life is in constant motion around us, changing by the min ute, and we all strive to keep pace. It can be difficult at times, always trying to look ahead and anticipate what could come our way next.

But as difficult as it can be to anticipate life, I’ve found it’s equally challenging to remind ourselves to hit pause and appreciate life and all of the moments that make up our day. It’s something I see in each of our schools as well as at home with my family. Our students are on the move from class to class, building friendships, volunteering in the community, compet ing on the field – they’re busy!

Educators are busy as well, working to anticipate our students’ needs and how we can adapt to better serve them. At home, it’s no different: as my wife, Jennifer, and I have kept up with four kids over the years, it’s hard not to notice similarities between home and school life. Yet, I’ve been better about hitting the pause button recently; the hustle and bustle around the house has slowed a bit now that our youngest has entered his senior year of high school. It’s given me the opportunity to practice appreciating today instead of always focusing on anticipating tomorrow.

With our son’s senior year underway, one way I’ve learned to appreciate today is to take every opportuni ty to converse with him, offer advice, and give him the confidence he needs to face the world head-on. To do so, I wrote him a letter recently, much like my father wrote to me when I was younger. It included a few reminders that I hope he can take with him as he sets out and makes his own way in life. To be honest, many of these reminders are also for me as a dad. In a sense, I hope they provide clarity and guidance for my son in a world with so much to offer, but one that needs people who focus on positivity, empathy, and love.

My advice to him was:

• Treat people right.

• Be a good listener.

• Push yourself past the point of being comfortable.

• Use social media to promote the positive and good in the world.

• Do something in the morning that shows a sense of accomplishment.

• Make others smile.

• Be spontaneous.

• Cherish the time and company of loved ones.

• Always listen to your parents (you’re never too old for that!)

• Never be afraid to use the word “love.”

These are lessons that I hope to adhere to whether I’m playing the role of superintendent or just “dad.” In fact, if I challenged you to list 10 thoughts that have served you well or that you might want to share with your own child, I’m willing to bet your list would touch on several of the themes in mine.

Point being, we all have the capability to lead by ex ample with compassion and empathy, whether it’s in our professional or personal lives. If we can take more time to appreciate what’s around us and embody the lessons that hold significance to us, we might not have to spend near as much time thinking about missed opportunities.

Dr. Jim Wipke is Superintendent of the Ladue School District.

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

Submitted photo

St. Luke’s Hospital is one of America’s 50 Best Hospitals for Cardiac Surgery and America’s 100 Best for Coronary Intervention, and the only hospital in Missouri to receive both of these dis tinctions in 2023, according to new re search released by Healthgrades.

These achievements reflect St. Luke’s outstanding clinical outcomes for car diac surgery and coronary intervention and puts St. Luke’s Hospital in the top 2% of hospitals nationwide for Cardiac Surgery and Coronary Interventional Procedures.

“These impressive distinctions serve as testaments to the dedication and quality of our entire St. Luke’s Hospital Heart & Vascular Institute team,” said Andrew Bagnall, St. Luke’s president and chief executive officer. “St. Luke’s commitment to excellence and inno vation in heart care is matched only by the compassionate and patient-centered care our team members provide.”

Healthgrades evaluated patient mor tality and complication rates for 31 of the most common conditions and pro

cedures at nearly 4,500 hospitals across the country to identify the top-per forming hospitals for specialty care. This year’s analysis revealed significant variation in favorable patient outcomes between America’s 50 Best Hospitals for Cardiac Surgery and 100 Best Hospitals for Coronary Intervention as compared to hospitals that did not receive this dis tinction.

“I am so pleased about Healthgrades’ recognition for five years in a row of our cardiac surgery team’s achievements that represent total dedication to quality care and exceptional patient outcomes.” said Dr. Ronald Leidenfrost, FACS, car diac surgeon and chairman of St. Luke’s Hospital’s Heart and Vascular Institute.

“The work of our heart surgeons, vascu lar surgeons, cardiac anesthesiologists, cardiologists, perfusionists, surgical as sistants, nurses and all other care team members throughout our specialized ar eas, and our alliance with the Cleveland Clinic Heart, Vascular and Thoracic Institute have made these achievements possible and demonstrate St Luke’s Hos pital’s commitment to ex cellence and efficiency in this challenging health care environment.”

Affinia Healthcare has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Ap proval for Ambulatory Accreditation. The Gold Seal is a symbol of quality that reflects a health care organization’s com mitment to providing safe and quality patient care.

Affinia Healthcare underwent a rig orous, unannounced onsite survey Aug. 9-12. During this triennial visit, a team of Joint Commission reviewers evalu ated compliance with the accrediting body’s Ambulatory Care standards, in cluding the handling of hazardous mate rials and waste, ongoing education and training, and infection prevention and control activities, among others. The surveyors also conducted onsite obser vations and interviews.

“As a private accreditor, The Joint Commission surveys health care orga nizations to protect the public by iden tifying deficiencies in care and working with those organizations to correct them as quickly and sustainably as possible,” said Mark Pelletier, RN, MS, Chief Op erating Officer and Chief Nursing Ex ecutive for The Joint Commission. “We commend Affinia Healthcare for its con

tinuous quality improvement efforts in patient safety and quality of care.”

“Fewer than one in five of the 1,400 or so community health centers across the U.S. seek and maintain this prestigious accreditation,” said Dr. Alan Freeman, Affinia Healthcare President and CEO.

“The extraordinary efforts of our staff, and the high-quality care and compas sionate service provided to our patients, set Affinia Healthcare apart.”

Freeman also commended on Dr. Kendra Holmes, Executive Vice Presi dent and COO, who led Affinia Health care’s preparation and response.

“This is yet another example of the exceptional nature of her leadership, as our organization strives to remain sur vey ready every day,” he noted.

The Joint Commission’s standards are developed in consultation with provid ers and other health care experts, and patients, and is informed by science and research. Affinia Healthcare has re mained accredited since 2004.

For more information, please visit The Joint Commission website: https://www. jointcommission.org/

Communities and neighborhoods across the St. Lou is area are embracing alternative ways to invest in clean, renewable energy. Ameren Missouri unveiled the top five neighborhoods around the St. Louis region with the highest number of enrollments in the company’s Community Solar program. The program allows eligi ble customers to participate in solar generation without the upfront cost of installing, or ongoing maintenance of, solar panels on their property.

“This is solar made simple. For the first time, custom ers can sign up for Community Solar at any level they wish, including up to 100% of their annual energy use,” said Patrick Smith, vice president of economic, com munity and business development at Ameren Missou ri. “Enrolling in the new program is easy through the customers’ online account dashboard.”

The five communities and neighborhoods around St. Louis with the highest enrollment in Ameren Missou ri’s Community Solar Program are:

1. Tower Grove South Neighborhood in St. Louis 2. Ballwin 3. St. Peters 4. Shaw Neighborhood in St. Louis 5. St. Louis Hills Neighborhood in St. Louis

Close followers to the top 5 are the communities of Florissant, Webster Groves and Affton.

“The Community Solar Program is popular with

both homeowners and renters,” Smith said. “This pro gram provides an accessible solution for all residential customers to take part in solar generation.”

Ameren Missouri is now accepting new Communi ty Solar Program subscribers. Those interested in sub scribing can log in to their Ameren Missouri account (or create an online account and select “Programs” from the account dashboard).

Two solar facilities, located at St. Louis Lambert In ternational Airport and along Interstate 70 in Mont gomery County, Missouri, were constructed following the support of more than 2,500 customers who have already enrolled in the Community Solar program. Ameren Missouri plans to construct a third solar facil ity in support of new subscribers. Details on the loca tion are still being finalized.

“The successful Community Solar program fills a need for our customers and helps get the energy we provide as clean as we can, as fast as we can, while maintaining the reliability our customers depend on,” said Mark Birk, president of Ameren Missouri. “Ex panding solar generation is key to our goal of reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2045.”

Ameren Missouri is also targeting a 60% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030 and an 85% carbon emissions reduction by 2040, based on 2005 levels. The compa ny is currently building solar facilities in the city of St. Louis near Penrose Park, the West End neighborhood of St. Louis, Maryland Heights and House Springs.

St. Louis area neighborhoods are shining examples of solar adoption

Affinia Healthcare awarded gold-level national accreditation from The Joint Commission

St. Luke’s Hospital receives national recognition

A house filled with promise Still In This Together:

Now that I think of it, I don’t ever remember seeing the door to the house open. In my memory, I remem ber passing the house on the corner of a street I don’t even know the name of, and always seeing a man sitting in a recliner in the corner of the living room. Never met the man I don’t think; it was impossible to tell what he looked like from the driver’s seat or passenger seat of our car; but he was always there, no matter the season, no matter the time of day, looking, I presume, in the direction of a television set, because at night you could see the tell-tale light from a tv in the corner he faced.

He was always there, until he wasn’t there.

My eyes always glanced up when I passed the street on my way home from somewhere. I would smile and say a silent hello to the man, and it bothered me the first time he wasn’t there, and the next time and the next time. The house was dark, obviously empty after a while. The bushes in the front yard became overgrown, and the trees in the back yard lost branches in a storm. The paint on the house began to fade. There were stick ers that appeared on the front door after a while, in dif ferent colors, maybe a notice of an unmade delivery or a warning to stay off the property.

I didn’t want to keep looking at the house, but I couldn’t help it. The house on the corner of a street I always passed, where I man I never met used to live. And it made me sad…for the man, who I tried to imag ine went to live with a son or daughter who would help him, and for the house, that was suddenly empty and uncared for, lonely.

It’s been a few years that the bare minimum of cutting the lawn has been done there. Winter and spring, sum mer and fall, nothing changed. A shutter slipped, the

Ms. Missouri Senior America Pageant seeks contestants

If you, or someone you know, will be at least 60 years old by April 1, 2023, you are invited to partic ipate in a rewarding and memorable experience at the Ms. Missouri Senior America Pageant to be held April 30, 2023

In the pageant, contestants will:

• Recite a 35 second personal philosophy of life.

• Be interviewed by a panel of professional judges.

• Model an age-appropriate evening gown.

• Perform a two-and-a-half-minute talent presenta tion.

Initial interviews will be held late January and talent auditions in early February. A queen will be crowned, as well as a first and second runner-up se lected.

After the pageant, all participants are invited to become members of the Missouri Pageant Alumnae Club (aka, Missouri Cameo Club), a nonprofit, char itable organization, which is dedicated to enriching the lives of all seniors by performing showcases at senior facilities throughout the St. Louis metro area.

For more information, please contact Susan Pel legrino at msmosenior@gmail.com or 314-640-5789 or visit www.MsMissouriSenior.org.

windows looked cloudy, and the front yard tree leafed and then colored, and the leaves blew down the street as the seasons changed.

And then, just a few weeks ago, I noticed an empty dumpster in the driveway of the house and I literal ly screamed out loud as we passed the street, turning around in my seat for confirmation. My eyes filled with tears and I couldn’t even get the words out to explain my outburst to John, who was pretty sure I had just scratched off a winning lottery ticket he didn’t even re alize I’d bought at the grocery store.

The house! The house where the old man always sat in the recliner in the corner. Someone is coming to its rescue! By the time the holidays come, it will be loved again! What perfect timing!

“It’s just a dumpster,” John said. “That doesn’t mean anything.”

Oh, but I knew differently. It meant hope, and activi ty, and the promise of a future and someone to love the house again. John just shook his head as he’s so often found reason to do over the years. But I have been right so far.

There has been a beehive of activity; the dumpster

By Vicki Bahr

has been filled with old cabinets and outdated plumb ing, worn interior doors and carpeting. There have been workers in and out of the house, and I can almost hear the walls sighing with pleasure as music blares and the front door stands open to sunshine and birdsong, sweet breezes and neighborhood bustle.

As homes fill with family and laughter for Thanksgiv ing, the house on the corner of the street I don’t know the name of is once again burgeoning with promise.

I have a feeling that by Christmas, there may very well be a family loving that house. And it makes me so very happy.

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

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Take notice . . .

The events listed in this section are the latest updates as of press time, please check with individual sites for the most up to date cancellations and reschedule info.

RECURRING EVENTS

Weekdays: Food pantry volunteers needed

The Harvey Kornblum Jewish Food Pantry is in need of on going adult volunteers to sort food, stock shelves and shop with clients. Two-to-four hour shifts are available, Mon day-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: 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 re quired. Ages high school and older are invited to join. There will be spring and fall public concerts. For more informa tion call Marty at 636-5799227, or email concertartsa@ 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 four-part harmony a capella (without accompaniment). We sing some traditional songs, as well as show tunes and more con temporary music. We do per form 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 Tues day 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.

Celebrate Re covery

Tuesdays:

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.lifepointministries. church/celebrate-recovery or call (men) Steve D. at 636634-6582 or (women) Denise W. at 530-417-6151.

Tuesdays: Choir rehears als

The St. Louis Chordinals, a women’s a cappella chorus, re hearse every Tuesday evening from 7 - 9:30 p.m. at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church at 12397 Natural Bridge Rd. in Bridgeton (next to the Bridge ton Government 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 Lu theran Church, 14088 Clay ton Road, Chesterfield, MO. Learn needlepoint, embroid ery, cross stitch, and more.

Every 4th Tuesday of the month: Fort Bellefontaine Memorial American Le gion 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 infor mation 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 (inter section of Parker and Arling ton) takes place on the third Thursday of each month starts at 2 p.m. There will be snacks and prizes. For more informa tion 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 pres sure check s

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 Chorus, a women’s chorus sing ing four-part a cappella harmo ny, 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 Columbus 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 Flo rissant, 1201 Garden Plaza Dr. For more information, call 314831-3752.

Saturdays: Yoga Yoga returns to Calvary UCC at 2501 Hartland Avenue, on Saturdays from 10:30-11:30. Masks and social distancing are required in the building and participants should bring hand sanitizer with them. For fur ther information call Angela at 314-801-8594.

Saturdays: Toastmasters meeting

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

Saturdays: Free walk-in clinic

Salam Clinic at St. Peter’s Unit ed Church of Christ at 1425 Stein Road at West Florissant in Ferguson is a free walk-in clinic open Saturdays from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. The clinic is jointly sponsored by the Muslim Com munity of St. Louis (MCSL) and St. Peter’s United Church of Christ to provide basic adult medical screening, treatment and referrals free of charge for the uninsured. For more infor mation or if you would be in terested in volunteering, 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 Com munity Christ Fellowship, rear, at 121 Williams Blvd. in Hazel wood, 1/4 mile south of Hwy 270 off Florissant Rd. There are a variety of topics monthly. You are not alone. Come help your heart heal with others. For more information call 314-605-3949.

Every Fourth Saturday’s Writer’s Workshop

10 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. at Baden 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 314330-7269.

Sundays: Jennings DoDads 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: Chapel of the Cross Lu theran Church Grief Share Support Group Tuesdays from 2 - 4pm and Thursday from 6:30 - 8:30pm, 11645 Benham Rd., 314-741-3737.

HEALTH

Every Mon. & Tues.: Healthy Meal Replace ment (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 As sociation Caregiver Sup

port 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@sb cglobal.net.

Every third Tuesday of every month: Grief Sup port Group sponsored by

DePaul Hospital

11:30am-1pm, Maryland Hgts. Comm. Ctr., 2300 McKelvey Rd. For more information, call 314344-6873.

Wednesdays: ACES Schizophrenia 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 314344-7220 to enroll.

Crisis Nursery: Committed to preventing child abuse and neglect, the Crisis Nursery provides shortterm, safe havens to children, birth through age 12, whose families are faced with an emergency or crisis. Care is available year-round and serves families throughout the greater St. Charles region.

24-hour helpline: 314-7683201. Or 636-947-0600, www. crisisnurserykids.org.

CROSSWORD answers from page F-4

SUDOKU answers from page F-1

Sports you see with Gary B...

Men’s rugby at Lindenwood even score with Army Lindenwood University was knocked out of the D1A playoffs in the semifinals by Army last spring but men’s rugby was able to earn a 36-7 victory in a rematch of the two squads recently at Hunter Stadium in St. Charles. Eduan van Heerden scored two tries and the Lions defense held the Black Knights to just one score.

In a reminder of the two pre vious games, this one again be gan with a field position battle, defense and large collisions on full display from the opening kickoff.

Lindenwood kept the pres sure in Army territory early in the first half and the Lions were finally rewarded for their efforts with a scrum, eight meters out from the endzone. Af ter Rhys Smith crashed in with a hard inside line, van Heerden picked off the back of the ensuing ruck to score the first try 13 minutes into the match for a 5-0 Lindenwood lead.

Six minutes later, the Lions struck again when scrumhalf Matteo Peignon picked a ball off the back of a scrum and darted to the side. He immediately pulled the Black Knights defender with him and cre ated enough space for Duncan Krige to blast through the gap and receive an offload. Krige raced 30 meters for the try and with the Peignon conversion, Linden wood increased its advantage to 12-0.

Late in the first half, the Lions were awarded a pen alty when an Army defender tackled a Lion support player without the ball 30 meters out. Peignon slotted the penalty attempt to make it 15-0.

After halftime, Lindenwood continued to control the match and only needed five minutes to score again. A high ball taken by Ike Wrigley ended up being passed to Runako Brynard who carried to the five-meter line. After a moment of scrambling at the goal line, van Heerden ended up with the ball and bullied his way over the try line for his second score of the night. The Peignon conversion made it 22-0 Lindenwood.

Army was finally able to break the Lions defense when a penalty at the goal line gave the Black Knights a great scoring opportunity at the 50-minute mark. A tap and carry positioned them with a great scoring opportunity, and after several phases, they crossed the try line to get on the board and cut their deficit to 22-7 with the conversion.

With Army still in reach of clawing back in the game, the Lions stopped any hope of a comeback in the 69th minute when they executed a five-me ter lineout to perfection with Kayleb O’Donoghue taking at the tail end of a maul over line. With another Peignon conver sion, Lindenwood led 29-7.

At the 79th minute, Cian Darling delivered the final blow when he arrived at a ruck and saw the Black Knights defense slow to set up along the fringes. He immediately noticed a gap and picked the ball up and sprinted 35 meters for the breakaway try. The conversion was successful making the final score 36-7 in favor of the Lions.

Head Coach Josh Macy bragged, “It was a great team effort from staff to players and fans getting a great match together against a great opponent. It was especially great to see graduating seniors from last year, who experienced a couple of bitter losses at the hands of Army, back and supporting their teammates. The support and commitment just doesn’t end.”

* Great comeback after a year

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.

Recipe: Cook up pumpkin-inspired comfort

Pumpkin Curry Turkey Soup with Rice

After a cool, blustery day, it’s hard to beat a satisfying meal that provides comfort from the inside out. Turning to a filling dish that’s easy to prepare means more time cozying up with a favorite book or movie and less time in the kitchen.

Casseroles and soups are classic options for cooking up comfort at home, and these recipes lean on the reliability of classic Minute Instant White Rice and Instant Jasmine Rice. Known for its light, fluffy texture; short, easy prep; and only 5 minutes of cook time, the rice is perfect for busy families who need quick, satisfying meals.

Simply cooked then dried with nothing added, it’s one simple ingredient: rice grown in the United States, meaning whether your loved ones go gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian or anything in between, you can count on these rice varieties all comfort food season long.

Movie:

By Steve Bryan

In 2013, actor Henry Cav ill (TV’s “The Witcher”) landed the dual roles of Su perman/Clark Kent in “Man of Steel,” a film that explored Kent’s complicated child hood. After appearances in 2016’s “Batman v. Super man: Dawn of Justice” and 2017’s “Justice League,” Cav ill did not portray Superman on-screen again until his surprise post-credits ap pearance in “Black Adam.” Cavill later confirmed that he will return as Superman in the DC Comics Extended Universe’s release of “Man of Steel 2.”

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.

Superman was originally created by Jer ry Siegel and Joe Shuster. “Action Comics #1” showed how Superman was born on a distant planet (later named Krypton) and sent to Earth by his father. Raised by kind foster parents, he gained incredible powers thanks to Earth’s environment. To preserve his identity, Superman disguised himself as reporter Clark Kent to monitor criminal ac tivity. After his first appearance in “Action Comics #1,” the iconic hero has been part of pop culture for more than 80 years.

Cavill was not, of course, the first actor to portray the Man of Steel. While Bud Colly er was Superman’s undisputable radio voice in the 1940’s, actor Kirk Alyn was credited with the character’s first on-screen portray

al in Columbia Pictures’ film serial “Super man.” For flying sequences, an animated version of Superman was used in place of Alyn. George Reeves, who was one of the Tarleton Twins in “Gone with the Wind,” played the lead in the 1950’s series “The Ad ventures of Superman.” The series was later released into syndication.

In 1993, former football player Dean Cain wore the cape and tights to star in “Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Su perman.” Cain played opposite Teri Hatch er’s Lois Lane, who didn’t learn that Clark and Superman were the same person until later seasons. In 2001, the “Smallville” TV series focused on Clark Kent (Tom Well ing) and his long journey to become a hero. Welling’s character was not allowed to fly or wear tights until the end of the series, but that rule was sometimes broken.

– SUDOKU –

Arguably, the late Christo pher Reeve was the best Su perman ever. Reeve embod ied Clark Kent’s meekness as well as the confidence of his super alter-ego. His per formance in “Superman 2” showed the character’s deep desire to become human and marry Lois Lane (Mar got Kidder), but a fight with a truck driver proved that he needed his powers. In “Superman III,” Reeve even shared the screen with co median Richard Pryor, who played techni cal genius Gus Gorman.

Superman may be faster than a speeding bullet, but a reduced budget could slow or halt production on CW’s existing shows. Nexstar Media Group bought up the CW Network, including the popular series “Su perman & Lois.” The premise shows Clark Kent (Tyler Lee Hoechlin) and Lois (Eliz abeth Tulloch) returning to Smallville to raise their two sons, Jonathan (Jordan El sass) and Jordan (Alex Garfin). Unlike Jon athan, Jordan inherited superpowers from his father.

It’s safe to say, though, that the Man of Steel won’t be going away anytime soon, especially with Henry Cavill returning to the big screen with “Man of Steel 2.” Here’s hoping that “Superman & Lois” find a home as well.

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.

‘Man of Steel’ photo courtesy Warner Bros.

WORLD Moore on Life: Subservient

I’m in big trouble. I missed a very critical event which puts me in the proverbial doghouse. No, it wasn’t my wedding anniversary, something far more important… National Cat Day!

I need to come up with a really good excuse or my cats will ig nore me more than they usually do. But then again, they’re just a bunch of overpampered fuzz balls who don’t pay rent. It’s time I stood up to these free loaders and let them know who’s really boss. I called them together.

Me: “Okay kitties, I suppose you’re wondering why I’ve called this meeting today.”

Fat one: “This better be good, I was just about to nib ble my kibble.”

New kitten: “What’s the deal lady? When I signed on to this gig, I was promised three hots and a cot. Now I’m expected to attend meetings during my cat nap? I need to see my lawyer.”

“Now listen you two, I’ve just about had it up to here with your sass. You need to who’s in charge. You are only here because of my kind generosity. I’m not here to serve you.”

The Fat One spoke. “Ri-i-ight and who is it that fills our food bowl with tasty treats?”

“Me, but that’s only because you have no jobs and you can’t open your food bags without thumbs.”

Fat One: “Well, no one is going to hire us without thumbs so you’re stuck.”

“But I am not your maid!”

Kitten: “Hmm, who dainties us up by bathing and combing us and clipping our toenails?”

Due to their small size and heavy usage, bathrooms can become messy, cluttered areas for many families.

For those with smaller bathrooms, storage solutions can be even harder to find. Consider these organization tips to make your bathroom a clean and functional space for every member of the family:

Assess the mess: Go through all the cabinets and draw ers to clear out unused makeup, health care products and medications. Make sure the items you keep are used on a regular basis. Items used sparingly should be placed in an alternate location.

Go vertical: Medicine cabinets can quickly get stuffed when combs, toothpaste and other toiletries are stored horizontally. Use organizer cups with suction adhesives to contain items vertically and save space.

Hang up in style: Old coat racks and ladders make per fect solutions for larger families to hang multiple tow els. Snag an old one from a thrift store and paint it a bright hue, like red or turquoise, for a stylish bathroom accent piece.

By Cindy Moore CROSSWORD:

“That’s to keep your fur from flying all over and so you won’t claw my face and furniture into shreds. But I am still in control here and you need to show me some respect.”

“Hmph,” they both grunted. “Someone who forgets National Cat Day deserves no such thing.”

“Listen little fuzzy faces, I am the queen of this castle; the em press of your domain and you need to understand that.”

“You missed one,” said the kitten.

I scooped up the messy clump from their cat box and spritzed it with some lavender deodorizer then asked if I might be excused.

“After you bring us a few salmon patties for restitu tion and then we’ll talk about you taking so many un necessary breaks.”

The meeting was adjourned. I returned to the dog house.

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.

Avoid spills and squirts: Hair products, such as gels, mousses or hairsprays, can create sticky, tough-to-clean messes if liquid escapes the container in a drawer or cab inet. Avoid such mishaps by placing these types of items in plastic tubs instead of directly in the drawer or on a shelf.

Divide and conquer: Bath room drawers can become unruly if not organized. To keep items separate and tidy, insert dividers, such as those used for kitchen utensils. These often come in fun materials, such as bamboo or stainless steel, to add a fresh look.

Assign cabinets or drawers: Try to use a large enough cabinet so each member of the family has his or her own space or drawer. This can help limit the amount of items high-maintenance family members can bring into the small area. Plus, it makes it easier for everyone to find their things.

Find more tips to transform your bathroom into a clean, organized environment, regardless of its size, at eLivingtoday.com.

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

Photo courtesy Bigstock