CN: Nov. 23. 2011 by Community News

November 23, 2011 Vol. 90 No. 47

Bring the entire family to Old Town Florissant on Saturday, December 3 for the annual Christmas Walk.

Christmas Walk By Shelly A. Schneider

IN this Issue

There’s no better way to spend an afternoon and evening than with family and friends in Old Town Florissant. Music, shopping, dining, Christmas lights and, of course, Santa Claus await young and old on Saturday, December 3. The Old St. Ferdinand Shrine is proud to kick off the event with a benefit concert at 1:30 p.m. The concert features authentic French Creole music. Admission is free, and donations are accepted. All proceeds from the event will be used to help restore the Shrine. Dennis Stroughmatt is the only artist in the world that tours and plays the music of the French Creoles that settled in the Midwest. His performance includes the up-tempo music, language, stories and culture secreted away in Missouri that became part of the American fabric at the time of the Louisiana Purchase. The French Creoles, both of French and Spanish descent, were Roman Catholics who were born in the colonies and created their own unique social customs and celebrations. The Shrine, #1 rue St. Francois, was built in 1821 and is the site of one of the earliest French settlements west of the Mississippi. The convent was home to St. Rose Phillippine Duchesne in 1819 when Mass was said for the first time that Christmas Eve. The Creole Christmas concert includes songs in both French and English not unlike the songs sung and performed at the Shrine during past holidays. After the performance, the Shrine will have chili and drinks for sale as well as gently-used Christmas items and special book fair event pricing of $4 per bag. Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5 School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Christmas Traditions . . . . . . . . . . 7-9

For more information about the concert or the shrine, please call 314.837.2110 or visit www.oldstferdinandshrine.com. The Christmas Walk in Old Town Florissant will be held from 2 to 5 p.m. along rue St. Francois. Many retail shops and restaurants will be open for Christmas shopping and dining. Shops open include: Stems Florist, The Silver Moon Stencil Shop, Florissant Old Town Marketplace, Village of the Blue Rose, Dooley’s Florist, Korte’s Frames and Gifts on rue St. Francois, and Sandie’s Interiors. Restaurants open include: City Diner, Helfer’s Deli and Hendel’s Market Café. Santa Claus will arrive at 2 p.m. at the Senior Dining Center. He will welcome all children for a visit from 2 to 5 p.m. There will also be story telling, face painting, pictures with Santa and more. The Senior Dining Center is located at 621 rue St. Francois. Be sure to stop by Florissant City Hall for crafts for the children, music and entertainment. Top off your day with the walking Christmas Parade. The parade will begin at 5:30 p.m. at the Senior Dining Center and will travel up rue St. Francois to City Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Joe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Shelly Schnieder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

2139 Bryan Valley Commercial Dr. • O’Fallon, MO 63366

Hall. The tree lighting ceremony takes place at 6 p.m. Mayor Thomas Schneider will throw the switch to light the tree at city hall. This is truly a Florissant tradition and one you will not want to miss.

Photo courtesy of Florissant Old Town Partners

For more information about the parade or the Christmas Walk, please call Florissant Old Town Partners at 314.837.0033.

Movie Talk

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Community News

November 23, 2011

Persevere in Tough Times Editor’s note: Community News is proud to feature a monthly column by Rance Thomas, Ph.D., professor, ordained elder and president of North County Churches Uniting for Racial Harmony and Justice. With the tough economic times we are experiencing, including the stubborn high unemployment rate, many Americans worry about the future. For those who have been unemployed for a long time and for those who are subject to lose their jobs because of the terrible economy, the worry has become intense. Of course, many of these individuals have given up and have become depressed because the prospect of finding other meaningful jobs looks very bleak. This is especially true for those middle aged and older individuals, because it is very difficult for them to find other employment opportunities. Of course, many of the lost jobs will not return; therefore, some individuals may have to undergo retraining to find jobs. It is very difficult for many to change careers or go back to school at their age. Increasingly individuals are running out of unemployment benefits and others will eventually at some point in time. Therefore, it is only natural for them to worry and

wonder what the future holds for them. In fact, the future probably looks very bleak for many. The good news is that those who believe in God and accept Jesus as their savior and obey his commands do not have to worry. Jesus told his disciples and us that “If you love me and keep my commands, I will ask the Father and He will give another advocate to help you and be with you forever.” John 14:14-15. He further tells them and us in John 14: 27 “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” Finally, Jesus says to his disciples and to us in Luke Chapter 12, verses 22-33: “Therefore, I say to you do not worry about your life, what you will eat, or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on your body…Now if God so clothe the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith.

Therefore, do not worry about what we shall eat or what we shall drink, or what we shall wear? For your heavenly Father knows that you need these things. But Rance Thomas, Ph.D. seek first the Kingdom Professor Emeritus Sociology/Criminal Justice of God and all these Ordained Elder, John Knox Presbyterian Church things shall be added to President of North County Churches Uniting for Racial Harmony and Justice you. Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow.” For those who truly believe and obey God’s commands, a loss of job is only temporary, and God has better plans for them. It just a matter of time before He provides even more abundantly for them. The key is to continually believe in the goodness of God and trust in Him no matter how difficult life becomes.

YWCA Hosts Annual Leader Lunch Tickets are still available for the YWCA Metro St. Louis 31st Leader Lunch at noon on December 1 at the Millennium Hotel, in downtown St. Louis. Leader Lunch is the premier event that recognizes the contributions of women in the workplace and the community. KMOX Radio/KMOV-TV Host Carol Daniel will serve as mistress of ceremonies for the occasion where more than 1,200 people are expected to attend and celebrate the achievements of eight Leaders of Distinction in business, a Racial Justice Leader, a Future Leader and a spe-

cial Lifetime Achievement honoree. These women will now join the YWCA Academy of Leaders, a cadre of 328 past honorees recognized for leadership in the workplace, efforts to promote racial justice and to positively influence colleagues, professional women and other community members. The luncheon also provides an opportunity for St. Louis businesses to recognize individual women in their own companies who are making significant contributions. This year, more than 50 leading companies are expected to support Leader Lunch 31 and honor 100 of their own women leaders in the workplace. Ann Prenatt, vice chancellor for human resources for Washington University in St. Louis, is chair of the Leader Lunch 31 Steering Committee, which plans the event. Event co-chair is Sara Foster, senior vice president for Commerce Bank. The YWCA Leaders of Distinction for 2011 are as follows: • Business/Corporate Management-Mary Frontczak, vice president and assistant general counsel, Peabody Energy; Wendy J. Henry, managing partner, St. Louis & Deca-

tur, BKD, LLP; Mary Ann Lazarus, senior vice president, firmwide director of sustainable design, HOK Group, Inc.; Michelle D. Tucker, senior vice president, corporate social responsibility market manager-Missouri, Bank of America; and Ronda F. Williams, senior corporate counsel, SAVVIS, Inc. • Entrepreneur/Business Owner–Lydia Padilla, president, TRC Staffing • Arts–Barbara Harbach, professor of music, UMSL • Government–Rhonda Hamm-Niebruegge, director of airport, Lambert-St. Louis International Airport • 2011 YWCA Racial Justice Leader: Jane Towater, associate national executive director, YWCA USA, retired 2011 YWCA Future Leader: Emma Mutrux, senior, University City High School • Lifetime Achievement Award: Joy Crawford Burns, retired chief executive officer, YWCA Metro St. Louis • Lead Sponsors of the luncheon are Clear Channel, Emerson, Monsanto, Scottrade and Wells Fargo Advisors. For more information about Leader Lunch 31 and how companies can recognize their own Leaders in the Workplace at the event, call the YWCA Development Department at 314.531.1115, ext. 295; email vmarshall@ ywcastlouis.org or visit www.ywcastlouis.org.

“Where else can you find peace of mind at such a great value?” After raising five children on her husband’s income as a teacher, Grace Poland knows all about tight budgets. “I’m here on a school teacher’s retirement,” she says, “and it’s still very affordable for me. It’s such a good deal; sometimes I can’t believe I’m here!” At Hidden Lake Senior Living Community, you can enjoy: Maintenance-free living Wellness-inspired lifestyle g Neighbors who quickly become friends g Priority access to healthcare if ever needed g g

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November 23, 2011

The Florissant Fine Arts Council in cooperation with UMSL's German Culture Center and the Goethe-Institut are proud to present the acclaimed Calmus Vocal Ensemble in "Christmas a cappella." Founded in 1999 in Germany, this a cappella quintet, all graduates of renowned St. Thomas Church Choir School, embodies the rich choral tradition of its hometown in Leipzig. Calmus offers the unique combination of a pure soprano with four male voices ranging from bass to counter tenor. This seamless blend of these five voices lends itself to an almost limitless range of music, from renaissance and baroque masters through great German romantic works all the way to contemporary choral and popular songs in a breathtaking holiday celebration. Tickets are on sale now for the 8 p.m. performance on Friday, December 9. The concert will be held at the Florissant Civic Center Theatre, Parker Road at Waterford Drive. For more information call 314.921.5678 or visit www.florissantfinearts.com. Tickets are $27 for adults, and $25 for seniors/ students.

Florissant Police Department Announces Police Promotions Mayor Thomas P. Schneider is pleased to announce the following officers have been promoted to various ranks within the police department. Lieutenant Sean Fagan has been promoted to the rank of Captain. Sergeant Vince Godfrey has been promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. Detective Rick Pfaff has been promoted to the rank of Sergeant. “I would just like to express my sincere congratulations to these three men,” Schneider said. “All three have outstanding leadership qualities and professional skills that will contribute to the continued success of our award winning police department in keeping our citizens and their property safe. I have challenged them to share their enthusiasm, zeal and professional dedication with the entire department.”

American Red Cross Lifeguarding Course

Florissant’s Parks and Recreation Department will offer the American Red Cross Lifeguarding course from Monday, December 26 through Friday, December 30 at the James J. Eagan Center (Parker Road & Waterford Drive) Students must be at least 15 years old and pass two prerequisite swimming skills in the first class in order to continue. The first class will be held from 9 a.m. to noon on December 26. The fee for a Florissant resident is $90. The non-resident fee is $95. Registration for both residents and non-residents is in progress at the James J. Eagan Center. For more information call the James J. Eagan Center at 314.921.4466. Students must pass the following prerequisites the first class day. There is no time limit for this skill. 1. Swim 300 yards continuously using the following strokes: • 100 yards of front crawl, using rhythmic breathing and a stabilizing propellant kick. • 100 yards of breaststroke using a pull, breathe, kick, and glide. • 100 yards of either front crawl or breaststroke. 2. Starting in the water, swim 20 yards using front crawl or breaststroke, surface dive 7 to 10 feet, retrieve a 10 pound object, return to the surface, swim 20 yards back to the starting point with the object and exit the water without using a ladder or steps, within 1 minute, 40 seconds. 3. The participant must hold the 10-pound object with both hands, placing the brick on his or her chest, and must keep his or her face above the water.

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Florissant House Decorating Contest Applications for the annual Christmas House Decorating Contest will be available beginning December 1 at the James J. Eagan Center, JFK Community Center and Florissant City Hall. The contest is free and open to all Florissant residents. Prizes will be awarded to the best decorated homes, and winners will receive temporary yard signs acknowledging first, second and third place. The city will remove the signs within one week. The deadline to apply is 5 p.m. on Friday, December 9. Judging will begin at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, December 13. For more information please call 314.921.4466 or 314.921.4250.

Snowman Building Contest

Think your snowman is the best in the neighborhood? Prove it! The city of Florissant is holding a Snowman Building Contest between November 15, 2011 and February 15, 2012. Anytime there is snow, build a snowman and take a picture of yourself with your snowman. Send it off to the city of Florissant along with an application. The Youth Advisory Commission will judge the contest and prizes will be awarded. This contest is for Florissant residents ages 15 and younger. Pick up an application at the James J. Eagan Center, #1 James J. Eagan Drive in Florissant. Send it, and the photo, back to the same address, or email the photo to jsteib@florissantmo. com, along with your child’s name, address, phone number and age. For more information, please call 314.921.4466.

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Calmus Vocal Ensemble "Christmas a capella"

Community News

November 23, 2011

Classic Irish Christmas Starring Andy Cooney The Florissant Fine Arts Council is proud to present A Classic Irish Christmas starring Andy Cooney, at 7 p.m. on Sunday, December 4 at the Florissant Civic Center Theatre, Parker Road at Waterford Drive. With his outstanding voice and dynamic stage presence, Andy Cooney brings the magic and meaning of Christmas to life. George Casey, Ireland's "King of Blarney" adds great comic relief. Kate Purcell is one of Ireland's foremost folk artists. Her fresh and engaging way with a song will capture and thrill the audience. Also appearing will be Darrah Carr Dance. These exciting dancers are sure to dazzle with traditional Irish step and contemporary modern dance. Tickets are $27 for adults and $25 for seniors/students. For more information please call 314.921.5678 or visit www.florissantfinearts.com.

City Of Florissant’s Thanksgiving Holiday Special Ramona Quimby The city of Florissant’s Thanksgiving Holiday Special will bring to life on stage Two Beans Productions, New York, NY adaptation of Newbery Medal-winning writer Beverly Cleary’s “Ramona Quimby.” Hold onto your hats as you follow the latest breathless adventures of the world's most animated elementary school student. Ramona, the exasperating but lovable third-grader, has delighted young readers for more than 50 years. Now, she comes to life on the stage in Two Beans Productions’ Ramona Quimby. Performances at the Florissant Civic Center Theatre, Parker Road at Waterford Drive are at 2 p.m. on Friday and Saturday November 25 -26. Admission is $5.25 to all. Call 314.921.5678 to make reservations or for more information, visit www.florissantmo.com.

Cold Weather Safety Tips from United Way 2-1-1 and Operation Weather Survival Operation Weather Survival and United Way 2-1-1 remind you to take care during cold weather advisories, warnings and emergencies. For information on what to do during a coldweather emergency, or to find warming shelters call 2-1-1 from a land line or 800.427.4626 from cell phones. All calls are free and confidential and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days per year. Below are tips, compiled by Operation Weather Survival to help keep you safe and warm during cold weather emergencies. Personal cold weather tips: • Dress in layered clothing and wear some sort of head gear/covering • Check space heaters for sufficient ventilation and wire condition • Never place space heaters close to flammable objects, such as drapes or bedding or on top of furniture or near water • Make sure fireplace flues are working properly • Check extension cords for breaks or fraying • Do not use charcoal or gas grills indoors • Check on your neighbors – especially the elderly • Keep pets inside • Never use an electric generator indoors, in-

side the garage, or near the air intake of your home because of the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning • Insulate walls and attic • Caulk and weather-strip doors and windows • Install storm windows or cover windows with plastic from the insid. • Insulate any water lines that run along outer walls (water will be less likely to freeze) • Service snow-removal equipment • Have chimney and flue inspected • Install easy-to-read outdoor thermometer • Prepare your home and car for cold weather – safety kits are available Before a winter storm hits: • Have a week’s worth of food and safety supplies • Keep a water supply • Make sure you have at least one of the following in case there is a power failure: - Battery-powered radio (for listening to local emergency instructions). Have extra batteries - National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather radio receiver (for listening to National Weather Service broadcasts) • Find out how your community warns the public about severe weather • Listen to emergency broadcasts

Saint Louis County Government Holiday Adopt-a-Family Project For the past 18 years, Saint Louis County Government employees have taken the lead to provide food, clothing, toys, household items, help with rent and utilities for more than 2,800 families living in Saint Louis County who were in need during the holidays. Businesses, groups and individuals are invited to help make this worthwhile effort a success. You can help by adopting a family or donating gift cards. Gift cards will be distributed to families who are not adopted for the holidays. Every donation helps to put a smile on a child’s face during the holiday season. A catalog of families and their needs may be found at www.stlouisco.com and clicking on the Adopt A Family icon. For information, please contact Susan Schafers at 314.615.4041 sschafers@stlouisco.com. Please note that the deadline has passed for inclusion of additional families in this project.

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November 23, 2011

Community News

Recent Maryland Heights Chamber Ribbon Cuttings Upper Limits: The Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce welcomed new business Upper Limits, located at 1874 Lackland Hill Parkway, Maryland Heights, with a ribbon cutting on November 4. Over the past 17 years, Upper Limits Rock Gym has grown to become the largest privately owned rock gym in the county. Their latest addition, a gym in Maryland Heights, offers climbers over 14,500 square feet of climbing surface, 45’ tall ceilings, two massive lead arches and an impressive top-out boulder. Gym members also have access to cardio and weight equipment, a private meeting area, childcare, a spectators’ Bastian Robotics: The Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce welcomed new business, Bastian Robotics 1 2200 Forte Court, Maryland Heights with a ribbon cutting on October 27. Bastian Robotics is an independent robotics integrator dedicated to helping customers increase their productivity and improve their processes through proven automation, information systems, sound operating procedures and the best in industrial robotics technology. As a leading source of material handling systems, Bastian provides turnkey solutions from design engineering and simulation all of the way through project management and installation. Bastian

seating area and a climbers’ lounge. The gym is truly one of the premier gyms in the Nation and something you have to see to believe. Upper Limits is sure to provide hours of family fun for beginners, while still managing to challenge even the most experienced climbers. In addition to memberships and daily passes, Upper Limits offers birthday parties, Scout programs, group adventures, team-building activities and more! Their new gym is located at 1874 Lackland Hill Parkway in Maryland Heights. Upper Limits West County can be reached by phone at 314.991.2516 or on their website at www.upperlimits.com.

specializes in the following industries: Food and Beverage, Life Sciences, Consumer Products, Automotive, Electronics, Distribution Centers and Warehousing. The Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce strives to enhance the general welfare and prosperity of businesses and citizens of the Maryland Heights area, as well as provide opportunities for its members to address economic, commercial, governmental, and educational issues. The Chamber is currently serving more than 425 businesses representing 22,500 employees. For more information on benefits and services, contact 314.576.6603 or visit www.mhcc.com.

Residents, Businesses in Franklin, Lincoln, St. Charles, St. Louis and Warren Counties Eligible for Low-Interest Disaster Recovery Loans in Response to June Storm A request by the state of Missouri to make low-interest disaster loans available to residents and businesses in five eastern Missouri counties affected by severe storms and straight line winds in late June has been granted by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). The SBA notified Gov. Jay Nixon that the lowinterest loans will available to qualified homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes and private non-profit organizations with eligible losses from the June 26-27 storm in Franklin, Lincoln, St. Charles, St. Louis and Warren counties. “Much of Missouri battled tornadoes, severe storms and flooding this year, and residents and businesses are still facing significant clean up and repair expenses,” Gov. Nixon said. “The low-interest SBA loans that will now be available in these five counties can assist eligible residents and businesses continue to recover.” The SBA has opened a Disaster Loan Outreach Center to assist residents and businesses. Customer service representatives will be available to issue loan applications, answer questions about the SBA disaster loan program and application process, and assist individu-

als complete applications. The service center location is: Sts. Joachim and Ann Care Service 4116 McClay Road St. Charles, MO 63304 Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. SBA provides low interest disaster loans to homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes and private, non-profit organizations to repair or replace real estate, personal property, machinery and equipment, inventory and business assets that have been damaged or destroyed in a declared disaster. Disaster loan information and application forms are also available from SBA's Customer Service Center by calling SBA toll-free at 800.659.2955, emailing disastercustomerservice@sba.gov, or visiting SBA's website at www.sba.gov/services/disasterassistance. Hearing impaired individuals may call 800.877.8339.

Applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via SBA's secure website at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela. The filing deadline to return applications for property damage is Jan. 9, 2012. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Aug. 9, 2012.

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Community News

November 23, 2011

More than 600 Students Expected to Participate in Annual Robotics Event The FIRST robotics season is drawing near and St. Louis Community College-Florissant Valley is gearing up for its annual competition the first weekend of December. The 2011 FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) will take place from 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Saturday, December 3, in the gymnasium on campus, 3400 Pershall Road. More than 320 high schools students are expected to participate. The FIRST LEGO League (FLL) will take place 8 a.m.4:30 p.m. Sunday, December 4, in the gymnasium. Approximately 350 elementary and middle-school students will participate in the challenge. FTC is designed for those who want to compete headto-head, using a sports model. Teams of up to 10 stu-

dents are responsible for designing, building and programming their robots to compete in an alliance format against other teams. The robot kit is reusable from yearto-year and is programmed using a variety of languages. Teams, including coaches, mentors and volunteers, are required to develop strategy and build robots based on sound engineering principles. Awards are given for the competition as for well as for community outreach, design, and other real-world accomplishments. High school students get to design, build and program robots. They apply real-world math and science concepts, and develop problem-solving, organizational and team-building skills. The participants compete and cooperate in alliances and tournaments to earn a place

Highest Rating on Annual Audit The Ritenour School District received an outstanding report for its financial practices and management, according to an audit report presented to the Board of Education on November 10. Rick Gratza, a certified public accountant with the independent public accounting firm Kerber, Eck & Braeckel, LLP, presented the firm's audit report at the meeting. Accountants from the firm spent several weeks reviewing financial records, accounting

practices and the district's compliance with state and federal requirements. The report indicates that Ritenour received an "unqualified opinion," which is the highest rating a school district can receive for an audit. "This is an outstanding report," said Superintendent Dr. Cheryl Compton. "It is very important our district be a good steward of taxpayer money. Ritenour has a long history of solid financial management and we are very pleased with this audit. Everyone in Ritenour takes our finances seriously and we will continue to work to get the most from every dollar we receive.” The Ritenour School District has received the prestigious Meritorious Budget Award for nine consecutive years. The Association of School Business Officials International presents the award to less than one percent of the nation's school districts each year.

in the World Championship and qualify for nearly to $7 million in college scholarships. FLL introduces younger students to real-world engineering challenges by building LEGO-based robots to complete tasks on a thematic playing surface. FLL teams, guided by their imaginations and adult coaches, discover exciting career possibilities and, through the process, learn to make positive contributions to society. Elementary and middle-school students get to design, build and program robots using LEGO MINDSTORMS® technology, apply real-world math and science concepts, research challenges facing today’s scientists, learn critical thinking, team-building and presentation skills, and participate in tournaments and celebrations.

New Adult Education and Literacy Coordinator The Ritenour School District is pleased to announce the appointment of Javonda Quinn as coordinator for the Adult Education and Literacy Program. Quinn joins the district from Saint Louis County, where she was most recently the Youth Services Coordinator (2007-2011). In that role, Quinn was responsible for the operation of GED sites, where she assisted in student recruitment, writing grants, career planning and curriculum development. She replaces Peggy Harriman, who was named Director of the Ritenour/Pattonville Re-Entry Center in August, 2011. The Ritenour Adult Education and Literacy program assists adults in earning a GED, learning to speak English and improving basic academic skills. The program is located at the Adult Learning Center, 8762 St. Charles Rock Road, St. John, MO, 63114. For more information about the Adult Education and Literacy Program, please call 314.426.7900.

Class of 2015 Faces Stricter A+ Scholarship Program Requirements There have been some additions to the original requirements for the A+ Program, which is a scholarship program available to Missouri stu-

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dents. This Missouri Department of Higher Education program provides scholarship funds to eligible graduates of A+ designated high schools who attend a participating public community college or vocational/technical school, or certain private two-year vocational/ technical schools. Seniors graduating through 2014 need to have a 95 percent high school attendance record and a grade point average of 2.5 or higher to be eligible for A + funding. Students are also required to complete 50 hours of uncompensated tutoring and maintain good citizenship. However, the class of 2015 will have an additional requirement. This year's freshmen wishing to receive A+ Program funding must have achieved a score of proficient or advanced on the Algebra 1 End of Course Exam. If students do not meet the Algebra 1 End of Course requirement, they may regain eligibility by completing their first semester at a participating institution with a minimum of 12 hours and a 2.5 grade point average. Parents and students who want to know more about the A+ program should visit their high school counselor or dhe. mo.gov.

November 23, 2011

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Community News

November 23, 2011

SAINT CHARLES Christmas Traditions Welcome to St. Charles Christmas Traditions! Christmas sparkles each year in historic St. Charles,

Missouri during our one-of-a-kind Christmas Traditions festival. While you’re making holiday plans, escape to an old-fashioned Christmas with storybook characters, Victorian carolers, and Santas from around the world. There’s no better place than Main Street during a Christmas festival for a holiday stroll with your loved ones. Underneath a canopy of twinkling lights, stroll a while. Duck into a shop or two for a little holiday shopping. Then, take a break at one of the many restaurants, dessert cafes or coffee houses.

For a complete schedule, please visit www.stcharleschristmas.com. And when Santa has to leave on Christmas Eve, join us for the Santa Send-Off at 1:30 p.m. We’ll bid Santa goodbye during this last parade of the season and wish him the best as he heads back to the North Pole.

Opening Day Join us at the Gazebo at 400 S. Main Street (Kister Park) at 11 a.m. for the Opening Ceremony. Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive via horse-drawn carriage, escorted by the Lewis & Clark Fife & Drum Corps and the rest of the Legends of Christmas. The traditional “hanging of the greens” takes place to symbolize the beginning of the Christmas Traditions Festival. Festivities continue all day with caroling, vendors, the Legends of Christmas, and Santas from around the world, as well as old-fashioned evening shopping until 9 p.m. The lighting of the Saint Charles’ official Christmas tree will take place at 5 p.m. in Berthold Square (200 block of S. Main). As a special treat, one of the AnheuserBusch Clydesdales will join the festivities from 2 to 4 p.m. (weather permitting) on Saturday, November 26 in the 200 block of N. Main. Bring the family for a special photo opportunity.

Breakfast with Santa November 26, December 3, 10 and 17 Come enjoy breakfast at the beautiful Mother-In-Law House Restaurant for an up-close-and-personal visit with Santa.

Information from www.stcharleschristmas.com Bring your holiday wish list. Plus, don’t forget the camera to capture all the holiday fun. Doors open at 9 a.m., and breakfast is served at 9:30 a.m. Parking is free on the street and nearby lots. Tickets are $15 and reservations are required. But hurry! Only a limited number of tickets are available. To order tickets, contact the Greater Saint Charles Convention & Visitors Bureau at 636.255.6155 or via email at KGodfrey@historicstcharles.com.

The Complete Works of Christmas! November 27, December 4, 11 and 18, 2011 Someone has killed the Grinch and now Santa’s on Trial! Who can imagine the jolly old elf with a belly that shakes like a bowl full of jelly could ever be a murderer? Come help us discover the real killer. Tickets are $62.50 and reservations are required. But hurry! Only a limited number of tickets are available. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and dinner is served at 6 p.m. Parking is free on the street and nearby lots. To order tickets, contact the Greater Saint Charles Convention & Visitors Bureau at 636.255.6155 or via email at KGodfrey@historicstcharles.com.

The Santa Parade The highlight of any visit to Historic Main Street has to be the Santa Parade. On Opening Day, as well as every Saturday and Sunday, the Santa Parade starts at the corner of Boone’s Lick and South Main at 1:30 p.m. and features more than 40 costumed Victorian Carolers and Legends of Christmas who all come together for this magical event. The Santa Parade is led by the Lewis and Clark Fife and Drum Corp and culminates at the corner of South Main Street and First Capitol in Berthold Square where you will be treated to a short show featuring the talented Lewis and Clark Fife and Drum Corp as well as all the rest of our International Christmas Characters. After the show don’t miss out on the opportunity to interact with all the Santas as well as collect their Character Cards.

Decorations

www.stcharlesconventioncenter.com

Saint Charles is one of America’s great Historic Districts. There is no other place quite like South Main Street, which features 10 blocks of historic buildings, some dating as far back as the late 1700s. For Christmas Traditions, we pull out all the stops to create a festive setting the whole family can enjoy. With more than 10,000 feet of fresh greenery, 150 wreaths, 1,200 hand-tied red velvet bows, and thousands of white lights in the trees and on the buildings, you just can’t help but get caught up in the holiday spirit. In the daytime, the crisp reds and greens provide a colorful backdrop as you walk the brick streets enjoying all that Christmas Traditions has to offer. And in the evening, the white lights make a nighttime stroll or drive down Main Street one of St. Louis’ best free light displays. The holiday decor on Main Street is just one more way that Christmas Past Comes To Life in Saint Charles during Christmas Traditions.

November 23, 2011

Community News

SAINT CHARLES Christmas Traditions Photos with Santa

636.398.4123.

Las Posadas 2011: Saturday, Dec. 3

Capture memories of your family’s visit to Saint Charles in a special photo with Santa. Set against a classic holiday backdrop in lower level of the Tourism Center at the corner of Main Street and First Capitol Drive, our Victorian Santa will bring a touch of class to this treasured memento, all at a greater value than mall photos. Photos are $12 for the first and $8 for the second. They are 5 x 7 and come in a lovely gold foil-trimmed frame. You may also purchase more photos with Santa in varying sizes online or by visiting The Tintypery at 510 S. Main Street. Photos with Santa will be open the Friday after Thanksgiving and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m.

Trains on Main

During the day from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. the normal Saturday Festival takes place. At 6 p.m. a beautiful re-enactment of the Spanish tradition of Las Posadas finds Mary and Joseph looking for shelter as they process down South Main Street with thousands of visitors carrying luminaries and singing carols. The procession begins at the corner of S. Main Street and Boone’s Lick Road. Las Posadas culminates along the riverfront in Frontier Park with a re-telling of the Christmas Story in narrative and song, a live nativity scene, and carols sung around the Yule Log bonfire.

Carriage Rides Take a break from the hustle and bustle of shopping and enjoy a relaxing, complimentary carriage ride down Main Street! Our complimentary carriage shuttle will be available (weather permitting) during Christmas Traditions on Wednesday and Friday Nights, as well as Saturdays and Sundays. The carriage rides are courtesy of the SBD and the Greater Saint Charles Convention & Visitors Bureau. To reserve a carriage for a special event or evening during the holiday season, please call

Shop These Saint Charles Businesses!

Be sure to visit Trains on Main located at the “North Main Train Station” at 222 N. Main Street. This year’s display will include a Victorian winter scene, a circus scene, Katy coal train, Union Pacific Big Boy, Polar Express, and so much more. Features HO, O, N and G gauge trains. Admission is $2 for adults and $1 for children ages 3-12. Children under 3 are free. Proceeds benefit the Frenchtown Heritage Museum. Trains on Main is open during regular festival hours. For more information, call 636.724.2106.

Community News

November 23, 2011

Sports You See... With Gary B. Wednesday, November 23 At Scottrade Center Guns ‘N Hoses 17 boxing matches with the male and female Cops vs Firefighters with all proceeds going to BackStoppers. Go to www.STLGunsandHoses.com for all the details. ~~~Great way to start the Holiday Francis Howell North Football Standouts Best Of The Best Honors were past out recently on the team’s standouts. FIRST TEAM: Terron Givans-Running back/SECOND TEAM: Malik Shipley-Defensive back; Brady Hawkes-Punter; Alex Walker-Linebacker; Jake Hurrell-Offensive line/HONORABLE MENTION: Bobby Garner-Wide receiver; Andrew Smith-Offensive line: Philip Snipes-Defensive back Congratulations also to the Academic All-Conference football players of Howell North with a cumulative 3.0 GPA: Corey Bruns, Jason Barth, Tyler Chinn, Kevin Doeren, Jonah Elliot, Terron Givans, VJ Goddard, Jake Haubner, Alex Heigl, Jake Hurrell, Andri Kruger, Drake Kruep, Justin Marsh, Daniel Martchink, Matt Matyi, Braxton Perry, Jonathon Schwab, Mackenzie Seivert, Philip Snipes, Kyle Thompson, Cody Vogt, Alex Walker ~~~Hard work gets results Timberland’ Swimmers Excel Sansoucie and Marler Lead The Way Andrew Sansoucie had a huge day on Saturday, November 12 at the Missouri Boys Swimming and Diving Championships held at the St. Peters Rec-Plex. Sansoucie came away with two state titles, with a personal best time of 20.69 in the 50-yard Freestyle and a state record-breaking time of 48.14 in the 100-yard Butterfly. He was also named Outstanding Swimmer of the Meet. Junior Justin Marler took second place in the 100-yard Backstroke and the Timberland team finished 10th overall. ~~~Cutting the water Former Timberland High Football Player Stars in College Montee Ball Class Of 2009

Sports

Ball set the Big Ten Conference single-season touchdown record on Saturday, November 12 when he scored for the 27th time as the 16th-ranked Wisconsin Badgers beat Minnesota 42-13. He gained 166 yards on 23 carries and crossed the goal line three times. ~~~NFL material??? Offense not Clicking for Rams Rams 7-Seattle Seahawks 24 The Rams were hoping to have an easier schedule playing teams in their own division. So far it has just made certain players on the team think deep within themselves. Quarterback Sam Bradford’s comments on what a losing season is like for him right now: “I’m beyond frustrated right now. I’ve never been on a team that has been in this situation. I don’t like it. I hope this is the only time in my career that I’m ever in a situation like this. I do know this. I know we have six games left in the season, and I’m going to continue to do everything I can to help this team win. I’m not going to quit. I’m going to continue to push our guys to continue to work, and I think that’s all we can do right now. Obviously, it’s not what we envisioned it to be at the beginning of the year, but that doesn’t mean that because we are 2-8 right now that we can give up. There are no excuses. We’ve got to continue to fight, and we’ve got to figure out a way to win games.” NEXT RAMS HOME GAMES: November 27: Noon - against the Arizona Cardinals December 18: Noon- against the Cincinnati Bengals January 1: Noon- against the San Francisco 49ers (end of regular season) Check the latest news at www.stlouisrams.com ~~~Gut check Former Ram Vince Farragamo Honored Quarterback of the Los Angeles Rams Farragamo (pictured with yours truly) played in the late 70s and early 80s. He presently owns Touchdown Real Estate in southern California. ~~~Still looks like he could lead an offense

Editorial

“Over the Fence” Winter Driving Rules Revisited Various safety organizations, committees and, for all I know, the Flat Earth Society, have for many years issued advice and rulesof-thumb for winter driving. These rules-of-thumb shouldn’t be confused with rules-ofdumb which pertain to licensing procedures that end up licensing nearly everybody including nearsighted morons and child molesters. Since we’ve already experienced the first blast of arc-

If you find yourself facing an icy uphill grade, slowing down before you get to it doesn’t work well, but it happens when some white-knuckled booby slows down in front of you. In this case, you should have bought a large all-wheel drive, knobby-tired truck with a huge steel bumper on the front to bump slowpokes out of your way. Since you didn’t, close your eyes and pray that seat belts and air-bags work when you bounce off the white-knuckled slowpoke and careen into a bridge abutment. Rules for dealing with macho morons in four-wheel drive trucks and SUV’s are important, too. They have better traction for driving on slippery roads but haven’t a prayer of stopping while showing off their macho wagons by weaving through traffic as if they were in the “Blues Brothers” movie. Thus, it’s safer to mount a remote-controlled anti-aircraft gun on your car roof to destroy approaching macho wagons you spot in your mirror. If they’re knocked out of commission, it’s o.k., inasmuch as they’ll soon land in the ditch or crash into a white-knuckled booby anyway. If, by happenstance, you find yourself in a fenderbender, do not admit guilt even if you went airborne over a hill and landed on another car. If there are no injuries as happens when the crashee discovers the crasher has no insurance, get the cars off the road if possible. If there are injuries, call 911 on your cell phone and wait for an ambulance while the passing, rubber-neckers stare in murderous contempt. Perhaps a Kevlar vest should be added to your list of safety devices but standing at port arms with an assault rifle will only bring the S.W.A.T. team and any number of holes in your anatomy. Good luck winter drivers, and may your air bags never jam your cell phones up your nose. www.stcharles.rightathome.net

tic weather, it behooves me to join the ranks of safety folks and give advice to drivers. Such as: If the roads are icy, stay home. This is in lieu of other suggestions for driving on slippery roads like advising drivers to steer into a skid. What fun is that? If you steer away from it and tromp the accelerator, you can do spinouts. When we were teenagers, it was great fun to spin the family car end-for-end on icy streets. We tried to see how many revolutions we could complete before running out of momentum or encountering immovable objects, cops or irate parents. Since working folks are often obliged to show up in spite of blizzards, monsoons, tornadoes and earthquakes, they should learn to deal with driving in them. It’s almost as easy as dealing with lane hogs jabbering on cell phones. My rules include: if you have to stop fast on slippery roads, you can’t…or if you have to turn quickly on slippery roads to avoid stalled traffic or drivers that stopped to mix a cocktail, you can’t do that either. If you see a semi bearing down on your tail on slippery roads, look for a soft place to dive into. Watch for a large snow drift or perhaps an off ramp long enough to stop before getting T-boned sliding through an intersection.

www.TroyFurnitureCo.com

Editorial

November 23, 2011

Community News

Keep a Journal? Nah. Just skip it. Many people, including our priest, Fr. Joe Kempf, advocate the use of a journal. Not in the sense of keeping track of daily events…although if you have that kind of discipline, go for it! If nothing else, journals are great pick-me-ups on those days when the kids are screaming, the telemarketers seem to only know one number (yours!), and everyone in the neighborhood has a reason to ring your doorbell. No…the type of journal Fr. Joe mentioned was a thankfulness journal. So what got me going on this? Did I experience some great epiphany? Not really. Did some family near miss make me drag out my notebook and start keeping the journal? No. Was I guilted into it by my mother? Thankfully, no. I have my precious daughter, Samantha, to thank. She skipped. Not as in skipping a stone across a pond (although something that simple is definitely worth entering into a journal), and not skipping school or church or any important event. She just skipped. You know, one foot in front of another with a little hop thrown in for good measure. I watched her at the park, as we made our way down a hill. I walked. Actually, I lumbered. It was not a particularly hot day…I just wasn’t in any hurry to get to the bottom of the hill. “Come on, Mom!” Sam invited. “Skip with me!” Are you kidding? I thought to myself. I haven’t skipped since I was … her age. Then I figured what the heck. Sure, there were teenagers there who snickered at the 46 year-old woman thoroughly making a fool of herself skipping, but as I grabbed my girl’s hand, all doubt and fear of rejection left my body. We skipped. All the way down the hill. Somehow, I was not completely out of breath when we

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reached the bottom. (I won’t lie – I needed to sit down for a minute. But at least I didn’t keel over.) When do we start worrying about what others will think? When do we stop doing things just for fun? Last night I sat down in front of my nightstand (knowing my bones would creak and pop the instant I tried to stand up), and dug through the pictures and papers stuffed in the drawer. After a minute or two, I found a brand new journal. The point of a thankfulness journal is to write down, at the end of each day, three things for which you are thankful. The tricky thing is you’re not supposed to repeat the same stuff day after day. Most people tend to start out with the big stuff – thankful for husbands or wives, or children or a wonderful mother-in-law (I slid that one in pretty good, didn’t I?). Pretty soon, though, one is required to put some real thought into the journal, and keep up with it, even when there are days when it seems there is nothing to be thankful for. Here goes my first entry. First? Skipping. I’m thankful for skipping. Second…my daughter who reminded me that it’s the simple things in life that bring the greatest joy. Third…well, since the first two were much more prolific and poetic than I needed to be in the very first journal entry, I decided to come back down to Earth. So third is the chocolate bar I consumed the night before. Every once in a while you have to be thankful for chocolate.

Lovin’ Turkey Leftovers

(Family Features) Make sure you buy a big turkey this year, because you’ll want plenty left over to make these tasty post-holiday recipes. For more great ways to love your leftovers, visit www.hellmanns.com.

“Stuffing” Crusted Turkey Cutlets: A Bobby Flay Recipe Serves: 4 • Prep Time: 15 min. • Cook Time: 10 min. Ingredients: - 2 cups panko or plain dried bread crumbs - 3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley - Salt and freshly ground black pepper - 1/4 cup Hellmann’s® or Best Foods Real Mayonnaise - 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard - 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning - 4 turkey cutlets (about 1/2 inch thick) - 4 tablespoons canola oil, divided Directions: 1. Combine bread crumbs, parsley, salt and pepper in large shal-

Turkey Turnovers Serves: 8 • Prep Time: 15 min. • Cook Time: 12 min. Ingredients: - 2 ups shredded cooked turkey - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (about 4 ounces) - 1 cup chopped cooked broccoli - 1/2 cup Hellmann’s® or Best Foods Real Mayonnaise - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper - 2 packages (8 ounces each) refrigerated crescent rolls Directions: 1. Preheat oven to 375°F. 2. Combine all ingredients except crescent rolls in large bowl. 3. Separate each package crescent rolls into 4 squares; press diagonal perforations to seal. 4. Spoon turkey filling onto center of each square. Fold dough diagonally over filling to form triangles; press edges firmly to seal. 5. Arrange turnovers on baking sheet; brush tops lightly with additional mayonnaise. 6. Bake 12 minutes or until golden. Serve warm.

Leftover Turkey Super Sandwiches Serves: 4 • Prep Time: 10 min. Ingredients: - 4 tablespoons Hellmann’s® or Best Foods Real Mayonnaise - 8 slices whole grain bread - 1/2 cup prepared stuffing - 1/2 pound sliced leftover or deli turkey - 1/2 cup cranberry sauce or whole berry cranberry sauce - 1 small apple, cored and sliced Directions: Spread mayonnaise generously on 4 bread slices. Layer stuffing, turkey, cranberry sauce and apple on bread slices. Top with remaining 4 bread slices.

low dish; set aside. 2. Combine mayonnaise, mustard and poultry seasoning with wire whisk in small bowl and season, if desired, with salt and pepper. 3. Season turkey, if desired, with salt and pepper. Brush 1 side of each turkey cutlet with mayonnaise mixture, then coat in bread crumbs. 4. Heat 2 tablespoons oil in 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and cook 2 turkey cutlets, bread side down, 3 minutes or until golden brown and a crust has formed. Turn over and cook an additional 2 minutes or until turkey is thoroughly cooked. Repeat with remaining oil and turkey.

www.ofallonnutrition.com

Community News

Learn & Play

November 23, 2011

SUDOKU:

Fill in the blank squares in the grid, making sure that every row, column and 3-by-3 box includes all the digits 1 through 9.

The Mississippi Wild and Wonderful It’s referred to as Old Man River in song and is known as the American Nile, but to voyageurs of yesteryear, who poled keelboats on its waters or manned flatboats loaded with goods, the Mississippi had a different moniker – Wicked River, so writes author Lee Sandlin. Sandlin has adopted that nickname for the river in a book that makes history about the Mississippi come alive. Readers are sure to enjoy “Wicked River, the Mississippi When It Ran Wild,” even if they’ve never beat their feet in the Mississippi mud. After an early introduction covering the reasons why the river isn’t the same as it was when Mark Twain wrote about it, Sandlin launches into chapters that cover everything imaginable regarding this navigational wonder, that we who live so close to its banks often take for granted. Chocked full of information and engrossing details, Sandlin follows the river down through history. River life gave birth to a plethora of hard-drinking, hard living, ribald characters and their stories are all here. Of particular interest are the chapters on how folks adapted to its ever rising and changing waters, and to the New Madrid earthquake and ensuing aftershocks. Also fascinating is the section on the steamboat era, when the “white-tiered wedding cakes” adorned its muddy waters, vessels that have been romanticized but which were actually quite dangerous. Though the Mississippi River, like the Old Gray Mare – ain’t what she used to be – the history that developed on and around its shores, makes for a good read with wide appeal.

See solution on page 14

Movie “The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1” “The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 1” is the penultimate installment in a film franchise that divided moviegoers over the last four years. Based on the popular novels by Stephenie Meyer, the previous films have been roundly criticized for their lack of production values and pacing. The acting of the three young leads also has been referred to as wooden in various reviews. While not an Oscar contender, the first part of “Breaking Dawn” is actually fairly entertaining at times. It also is a film designed specifically for the countless fans of the “Twilight” books and movies. You really can’t walk into this film with no previous knowledge of the series or the characters. The story opens with preparations for the wedding of Bella Swan (Kristen Stewart) and her true love, the youthful vampire Edward Cullen (Robert Pattinson). Jacob Black (Taylor Lautner), the werewolf who also has strong feelings for Bella, must come to grips with her choice of life partner, but he isn’t taking the news very well. In an unexpected turn of events, Bella quickly becomes pregnant on the honeymoon and her body becomes host to a fast-growing fetus. The hybrid baby soon turns life-threatening, breaking bones and literally sucking the life out of his mother’s body. A horrified Edward tries to find historical precedents for a human/vampire birth, but the answers are almost too horrifying to contemplate. Jacob is equally horrified, blaming Edward for this unholy conception. Jacob

By Steve Bryan

(PG-13)

also swears to defend Bella and the Cullens against his wolf pack, who plan to attack the unborn baby. A hybrid human/vampire child is an unknown quantity and the wolves are taking no chances. Extremely slow and plodding, “The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 1” doesn’t really get interesting until halfway through the story. The makeup artists work overtime on Kristen Stewart, turning her in a gaunt, dark-eyed mother-to-be with an overly large pregnant belly. The wedding scenes are more than a little awkward, with minor characters like Jessica (Anna Kendrick) and Charlie Swan (Billy Burke) delivering wedding speeches that sometimes do not make any sense. It’s almost as if director Bill Condon let the supporting cast write their own Photos courtesy of Summit Entertainment wedding toasts to give them a few precious minutes of screen time. Fans of the whole “Twilight Saga” will love the first part of the finale, but moviegoers who don’t want to play catch-up with the story may find their time best spent elsewhere. “The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 1,” rated PG-13 for disturbing images, violence, sexuality, partial nudity and some thematic elements, currently is playing in theaters.

www.parksideretirementliving.org

November 23, 2011

Church Nov. 26: Sacred Heart Parish Christmas Ornament On sale before and after each Mass November 26/27 or from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays at the Parish rectory. $20 or $25 with a stand. Info: 314.838.5234 or 314.409.9478. Mondays in Advent: Waiting with Mary Advent Prayer Series 7 to 8 p.m. at the Pallottine Renewal Center Chapel November 28 and December 5, 12, and 19. Info: Angela at 314.387.7100. Every Thursday (through December 1. 6:30 to 8 p.m. Grief Share Support Group At Ferguson Church of the Nazarene, 1309 N. Elizabeth Ave. Ferguson, Mo. Info 314.522.3388 or leecedra@sbcglobal.net. Dec. 3 and every 1st Sat. of the month all year long: Basement/ Breakfast/Tailgate Sale At Northside Christian Church, 9635 Hwy. 367 (Lewis & Clark Blvd.), St. Louis, MO. Pancakes & sausage or 2 biscuits & gravy, juice & coffee. Extra sausage is 50 cents more. Church basement sale with lots of new items and tailgate sale to sell your own treasures. Times: Basement/Tailgate is 8 a.m. - Noon; Breakfast is 8-10:30 a.m. Breakfast is $4. A double parking spot for tailgaters is $10. Call 314.868.5722, to reserve your tailgate spot.

Duchesne Parish Hall, 1220 Paddock Dr. in Florissant. Free admission. Attendance prizes and raffle items. Dec. 3: Pancakes with Santa 9 – 11 a.m. at Florissant Valley Christian Church, 1325 N. U.S. Highway 67 in Florissant. Breakfast, story by Santa and crafts. $5 per person (3 and under are free). Info: 314.837.6767. Dec. 10 Fair-Trade Christmas Gifts 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. at Florissant Valley Christian Church, 1325 N. U.S. Highway 67 in Florissant. Shop for unique gifts by artisans in third world countries. All money goes to the artisans who made the products so they may be able to support their families. Info: 314.837.6767. Jan. 7: Trinity Trivia Night 7 p.m. in the TCHS cafeteria. Doors open at 6 p.m. $120 for table of eight. Beer and soda provided. Must be 21. Proceeds benefit production of Godspell in February. Reservations: Diane Merz at 314.869.6371 or dianemerz@sbcglobal.net. Sept. 22, 2012: Jennings High School Class of 1972 Reunion To be held in St. Charles, Mo. We need your current contact information. Please call 636.583.9778 or email jhs1972@gmail.com. Inviting All Florissant Senior

Citizens To Join One Of The Bingo Clubs With The City Of Florissant!! Please contact the Florissant Senior Office for more information at 8397604. • Monday Club: Meets every Monday for Bingo from 11:30-2:30 on the lower level of the James J. Eagan Center. Bring a sandwich - coffee and tea are available. Interesting day trips to St. Louis Area locations are also scheduled. • Florissant Older Adult Club: Meets the second Tuesday of each month from 11-1:30 on the lower level of the James J. Eagan Center. Bring your lunch! Bingo, Trips, Speakers and special events are planned. • Wednesday Club: Meets every Wednesday for Bingo from 11:302:30 on the lower level of the James J. Eagan Center. Bring a sandwichcoffee and tea available. Interesting day trips to St. Louis Area locations are also available. 1962 Hazelwood High School Reunion Graduates from the class of 1962 are invited to attend the 50th Reunion in June 2012. Please contact Shirley at 314.799.1147 (cell phone) for more info.

union in 2012. Please contact Kay at 1967hhshi@gmail.com or 636 7452601 for more information. Every Saturday: 8-10 a.m. Chess Chess is played every Satuurday from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. or later, at MidRivers Mall in the food court. Come join us for some interesting games! 3rd Thursday of each month: 12:15 NARFE Chapter 1229 - Meeting for all Active and Retired Federal Employees At Golden Corral, 1850 Zumbehl Road, St. Charles, MO. For more info, call Sandy Luber at 636-4624297. 1st and 3rd Wed.: 7 p.m. St. Charles Area Wood Carvers Diverse group of people has a wide variety of carving skills ranging from novice to professional. Meetings include brief business mtg. followed by carving session. At Weldon Spring Site Remedial Action Project, 7295 Hwy. 94 South, St. Charles. Visitors always welcome!

Community News

Every Weekend: Orchard Farm Radio Controlled Flying Club Public invited & welcome every weekend to watch our flying model airplanes. Bring the family. Directions to the field at www.orchardfarmrc.com or call 636.300.1480. Every Thursday Evenings: 7:30 p.m. St. Charles Municipal Band Frontier Park, .stc-muny-band.com Every 3rd Monday of the Month: 6:30 p.m. Neighborhood Watch Visit our wesite for location, http:// ca.groups.yahoo.com/group.neighborhoodwatch_FlorissantMO or call 314.830.6042. Health and Meetings St. Chatherine Retirement Community Events 3350 St. Catherine St., Florissant. To RSVP to events call 314.838.3877 Each Monday: Line Dancing with Minnie 5:45 p.m. Beginners welcome.

1967 Hazelwood High School Reunion: We are looking for classmates of Class of 1967 Hazelwood High School. We are having a 45th re-

Events Nov. 26: Chappel House Book Signing 12 – 3 p.m. at 4560 Washington Street in Florissant. “The Funny Monkey Meets Santa Claus” by Angela and Joseph Huneke. Other children’s items and artists on site. Info: 314.838.0100.

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Dec. 3: Shopping and Craft Fair 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at St. Rose Philippine

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Community News

November 23, 2011

CLASSIFIEDS Every Monday and Friday: Fit to Go Exercise 1 p.m. Free. Classes led by personal trainer with the use of weights and resistance bands (provided). Nov. 29: Buck Wurth Presents Snakes Alive! 10:30 a.m. and Happy Hour at 11:30 a.m. followed by complimentary lunch. SSM DePaul Healthy Happenings Every Monday (6-7 p.m.) and Tuesday (noon -1 p.m.) in Octo-

ber. Weight loss HMR Program Orientation. Register at 1.877.477.6954.

DePaul Health Center. For patients and candidates. Info: ssmweightloss.com or 1.877.477.6954.

First and Third Mondays: Sharing Losses through Bereavement 1 – 2:30 p.m. SSM Home Care & Hospice, 1187 Corporate Lake Drive. For families and friends who want to help understanding and coping with the death of a loved one. Register at 314.SSM. DOCS (776.3627).

Volunteers needed at Christian Hospital Christian Hospital is calling out for volunteers that can do a significant amount of walking to run errands within the hospital. Discover the rewards of volunteering! If you’re looking for a rewarding way to spend your time, volunteering at Christian Hospital is an ideal match. Volunteer positions are available in many different areas. You’ll meet a variety of interesting

Nov. 16: General Weight Loss Surgery – Support Group 5:30 – 7 p.m. May Center at SSM

people while making a difference in our community. Applications are available at www.chrisitianhospital.org in the Volunteer Office, located off the hospital’s main lobby. For more information, call the Christian Hospital volunteer office at 314-653-5032. 12 Step Support Group for Women Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse Meets in 4 locations in the metro St Louis area. Can email for further information: metrostlouissia@ gmail.com. • Every Sunday: 6:30-8 p.m.

7401 Delmar Ave. in University City; lower level of Holy Communion Episcopal Church; contact 314993-5421. • 1st and 3rd Monday: 9:30-11 a.m. 500 Medical Dr in Wentzville; doctors dining room of St Joseph Hospital; contact 636-561-1407. • 1st and 3rd Tuesday: 12:30-2 p.m. 320 N. Forsyth Blvd in Clayton; lower level in Samuel United Church of Christ; contact 314968-3477. • 2nd and 4th Tuesday: 6:30-8 p.m. 2 Progress Point Parkway in O’Fallon, MO; 4th floor conference room of Progress West Hospital; contact 636-561-1407.

Sudoku Solutions from page 12

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Billy Hoelscher

PRAYER TO ST. JUDE May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world, now and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus, Pray for us. St. Jude, Worker of Miracles, Pray for us. St. Jude, Helper of the Hopeless, Pray for us.

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Community News

November 23, 2011

MoDOT Ready for Ol' Man Winter Missouri Department of Transportation crews are once again kicking into high gear in preparation for the upcoming snow and ice season. They are busy checking and repairing equipment, stockpiling supplies and testing emergency preparedness operations to ensure motorists get where they're going safely when winter weather hits. "Snow removal is one of our top priorities, and our maintenance workers are well-trained in handling winter weather emergencies," Assistant Chief Engineer Don Hillis said. "When snow or ice hit, we'll mobilize our people and equipment to get the snow off the road, and we'll stay with it until all roads have been plowed." Hillis said the department has worked hard to be

more efficient in its snow removal activities, and those efforts have paid off. The department used 69,733 tons less salt last winter despite a statewide average of six more inches of winter precipitation. "We had a record snow on February 1 that closed Interstate 70 for the first time in history, and still spent $11 million less on snow and ice removal last year than we did the winter before,” he said. “That means more money for projects." Hillis said MoDOT's statewide plan of attack remains the same as in previous years. Crews will focus on getting roads drivable in bad weather by treating the highest-traveled major roads and regionally significant roads first until they are mostly clear. All the remaining

Keeping Pets Safe During the Holidays As the pages of the calendar flip and we move closer to the holiday season, pet owners should be aware of common – but hidden – dangers to their pets as we transform our homes for the celebrations to come. “The holidays are supposed to be a time of joy for our families, but in preparing for the season, many pet owners run the risk of exposing their pets to household

dangers that could present potential life-threatening hazards to their pets,” said veterinarian Lori Pasternak, of Helping Hands Affordable Veterinary Surgery and Dental Care (www.helpinghandsvetva.com). “These latent hazards could derail a family’s holiday season if their pets become ill as a result of these hidden perils.” Pasternak’s list of prospective risks include: • Decorations – While holiday decorations can make a home feel more festive, they can be tantalizing traps for pets. Pet owners should keep decorations and ornaments higher up on trees so they are not consumed by pets. If a pet decides the colorful garland or tree trim might make a tasty snack, they can and will get stuck in your pet’ intestines, necessitating immediate surgical removal. Moreover, exposed www.blackjackfire.org cords from electric lights can cause electrocution or oral burns if chewed. • Gift Wrap – When it’s time to pull all the gifts out of hiding to be wrapped, take care that your pet isn’t in the room as you spread out all the wrapping paper, bows and ribbons. If a cat should starting gnaw-

less-traveled roads will be plowed to allow for two-way traffic, concentrating on hills, curves and intersections. MoDOT crews will again be using plows that can cover more roads in a single pass such as TowPlows, wing plows and 14-foot plows. The best plan of attack for drivers when winter weather hits is to consult MoDOT's Traveler Information Map at modot.org. When snow and ice are falling, the map lets travelers know whether a highway is closed, covered, partly covered, mostly clear or clear. For information on road conditions across the state, road condition pictures, safe traveling tips and a diagram on driveway clearing techniques, visit modot.org or call 888.ASK.MODOT.

ing on the ribbon, it will literally "stitch" the cat’s intestines together as it is being passed through the gut. Surgery is one holiday gift you don’t want to give your family pet. • Holiday Feast – While turkey and ham make up the majority of traditional holiday meals, turkey and ham bones can become lodged in the intestines if swallowed in large pieces. Be careful that your guests don’t give in to the holiday spirit too much and choose this time to offer table scraps to your pets. Your pet could become seriously ill or even choke to death. • Flowers – The poinsettias many choose to use as holiday centerpieces are also toxic to most household pets if they are chewed and swallowed in large enough quantities. The level of toxicity is completely proportionate to the size and weight of your pet, but instead of doing the math on that equation, it’s better to choose other types of floral arrangements that don’t endanger your pets. “The holidays should be a time for fun, not an unscheduled trip to the animal hospital,” Pasternak added. “If something does happen, don’t hesitate to take your pet to the nearest animal hospital, and know that if you come to ours, we work with our pet owners on affordable payment structures in emergency cases. But we’d rather not see you this season. The best holiday gift you could give your pet is a hazard-free household so they can enjoy the warmth and joy of your celebrations safely and soundly.”