CN: December 2, 2015

December 2, 2015

Games for your brain Recipes

Smart holiday indulgence

Community Voices

11

2

By Larry A. Brown

Submitted photo

John Coveyou is the founder of Genius Games.

St. Louis-based Genius Games takes science and mixes in a dose of fun

By Sara Hardin It’s no secret that science can be a difficult subject to grasp for many students. The complex language can be overwhelming, and one can easily feel lost in the dense material. Noticing these same problems in his own science classrooms, John Coveyou decided to transfer the material he was teaching into a more entertaining, interactive experience. He launched his first game, “Linkage: A DNA Card Game” on Kickstarter in May 2014. It became available to the public on Amazon that August, and Genius Games was born.

“The company was actually started in 2011, but it was just a hobby for me,” said Coveyou. “I was working as an engineer at a local consulting company in St. Louis and teaching chemistry at St. Louis Community College. I had been playing games most of my life and I was really interested in game design.

The reason why I started the company was because I saw that in my chemistry classroom it was tough for me to get my students to really grasp some of the concepts because they were intimidated by the vocabulary and the language.

I thought to myself, ‘I wonder if there’s a way I can design some games that I could actually use in my classes.’ So I designed a bunch of games early on, but most of them were pretty terrible.

For me it was just a learning process, getting better at game design. Finally, in May 2014, I published my first game

through Kickstarter called ‘Linkage: A DNA Card Game.’ It’s essentially a card game about genetics. It’s representing the process of DNA transcription.”

Linkage was subject to overwhelmingly positive reviews and was featured in “Popular Science Magazine” as one of the top 10 things in February 2015.

Genius Games followed “Linkage” with another biology-themed game called “Peptide,” which serves as a follow-up to “Linkage” by showing how RNA is translated into proteins within the body. The company’s two most recent games, “Ion” and “Covalence,” focus on chemistry themes and have also been incredibly well-received. “Ion” was praised by “Scientific American,” “Gizmodo” and “Science News,” and “Covalence” had reviewers buzzing at its reveal at the Chicago Toy & Game Fair, which “Genius Games” took place in the weekend of Nov. 21 and 22.

While educational games do exist, Coveyou explains that many are produced by educators without much background in game design. The diverse team behind Genius Games, composed of both educators and game designers, is capable of producing games that appeal both to science enthusiasts and to casual gamers, making their success explosive.

“There are no other science-based games. There are games that are loosely based on science concepts, but they’re

not actually science-based,” explained Coveyou. “The thing about our games is that they are as accurate to the science concept as possible. When I designed the games I took the principles I was teaching students in a classroom and turned them into a game. So, when you’re playing the game you’re actually playing through or replicating or mimicking some of the science that you would be taught in a traditional science course. You have a lot of educational games out there, but very few that have to do with chemistry and biology. There See GAMES FOR YOUR BRAIN page 2

Around Town

4

Scouts gather 1.9 mil food items

Over the Fence

16

It boggles the mind

Movie: “The Night Before” FREE Online Subscription at mycnews.com

9

Around Town

2

Vol. 94 No. 48

In This Issue...

3

Around Town School board candidate filing opens Dec. 15 and more.

6

Business SLMBC and St. Louis Regional Chamber merge operations and more.

7

School NCCS Student of the Month announced and more.

8

Learn & Play Cindy Moore’s take on life; also, check out the Local Author Spotlight.

9

Movie “The Night Before” is an unwelcome Christmas present you’ll want to return.

10 11 12 14 16

Sports Local sports with Gary B. Recipe Smart holiday indulgence.

December 2, 2015 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

GAMES FOR YOUR BRAIN are a lot of history and math games. One of the major things that separates us is that we are a team of both educators and scientists and science enthusiasts, and game designers. Our games are professionally designed and vetted by the educational community. We have gamers from all over the world in 41 different countries using our games in both classrooms and in gaming clubs. We have a distinct niche in that we’re vetted by both of those major communities.”

Shelley Spence, Director of Operations at Genius Games, explains that the games’ ability to create a sense of wonder in students without sacrificing accuracy is a true accomplishment of the company, and is one factor in making people eager to learn more about subjects that are often dismissed as too complicated or intimidating.

“The rules of the game are always accurate to the process of the science. We want the games to be an opportunity for students to really engage in some core concepts of science that may be intimi-

from cover

dating,” said Spence. “We want them to be able to play. In learning the rules of the game, students are actually learning rules of science. For me as an educator it’s always been really important for me to not only transfer content information to my students, but to transfer the wonder of content. That’s one thing we’ve had great success with. They capture the awe of science. That stems from the content being very accurate.”

Kickstarter has been a huge part in the publishing process for Genius Games, with each of its game ideas being presented on the platform before the physical copy is launched and made available to consumers. Coveyou’s ability to connect with those who back the company’s projects early in the development process is another reason why Spence believes the games have reached their current level of success. As an educator without a strong science background, Spence also explains that the games Genius Games produces would have been beneficial to her as a young science student, which is some-

thing she considers when reviewing a game before the final product is revealed.

“These are definitely the sort of games I wish I had back when I was learning science, because I’ve always been very attracted to things and processes that are beautiful,” said Spence. “In my time with Genius Games my mind has really been blown by the beauty of science.”

Coveyou, who is beginning to teach game design at Webster University, has several more works in plan for Genius Games with topics including cell biology and genetics. His passion for game design branches beyond the development of his games alone, and the Genius Games team often works with other companies to create games out of various concepts.

“If people have ideas and they want to hire us to design for them we’re always open to that as well,” said Coveyou.

For more information about Genius Games and their products, visit www.gotgeniusgames.com.

What’s Happening Classifieds Over the Fence Joe Morice brings his unique views to the Community News.

COMMUNITY VOICES Making sure that ‘lives matter’

By Larry A. Brown

Follow us on www.pinterest.com/mycnews

The mantras echoed in recent civil protests that “Black Lives Matter” or “All Lives Matter” are slogans that are easy to yell but difficult to impose upon everyone in the community without certain major attitudinal changes among our diverse citizenry.

These two realizations are relatively easy to accomplish; however, a return to certain basic human and spiritual principles must be restored, accepted, adopted and incorporated into our everyday behavior.

Every human being is special and important to the perpetuation of our society. Every life has a purpose. Early on, this must be taught and even drilled into our children, so that they have a sense of “self- esteem” and “value.”

Though this may occur somewhat in pre-school and elementary schooling, it must be reinforced inside the home setting, no matter what the composition of the family may be, nor its socio-economic status in the overall community. “As a man thinketh, so is he.”

Then, respect for others must simultaneously be instilled and practiced by everyone. “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Though this Golden Rule Biblical principle represents a model behavior pattern, today’s society has created masses of individuals who don’t love themselves and therefore care less about their fellow person. Recognition of this condition due to the tremendous effect mass media and information technology have upon us, requires “intentional action” on our part to offset the negative effects that we are witnessing. Simple

things like committing to do or say something good to someone every day and performing some “random act of kindness” represent a great start. Who knows but your special purpose in life could be to keep someone from being run over by a car, and that person later becoming a nationally important figure because he/she was allowed to live!

At WORKNET, we strive diligently to help restore a sense of purpose, self- importance, and self- esteem to individuals with diagnosed disabilities who desire and are capable of working in the regular corporate community. These individuals make some of the best and most dedicated employees, and the employer also receives special government incentives for hiring our clients. Employers may contact WORKNET at 314-6216300 or email: larry@worknetnow.com.

Larry Brown is Chairman of the Board and co-founder of Worknet, Inc., which has a national ten year contract with the Social Security Administration to find jobs for people with disabilities who are interested and qualified to enter the traditional workforce.

He is also co-founder and president of Grace Chapel Ministries, former president of National Cable Training Centers, and president of Woodstock Industrial Products Group.

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

www.northwindsband.org

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • December 2, 2015

School board candidate filing opens Dec. 15 Filing for positions on the Pattonville School District Board of Education begins at 8 a.m., Dec. 15 and ends at 5 p.m., Jan. 19, 2016.

Persons interested in running for a position on the Pattonville school board may file in the superintendent’s office located at the Pattonville Learning Center at 11097 St. Charles Rock Road in St. Ann. Two positions are available with threeyear terms and one position is available with a one-year term during the April 5, 2016 election.

Board members whose terms are expiring are Ruth Petrov and Bob Dillon for the regular terms

and Mary Kay Campbell, who is filling a previously vacated position, for the one-year term.

After opening filing day, filing will continue Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Except for the first and last day of filing, filing will not occur on days that the school district’s central offices are closed due to inclement weather. Candidates should call 314-213-8001 to inquire if offices are open. Filing will also not occur on the following holidays and breaks, when the superintendent’s office will be closed: Dec. 21 through Dec. 25, and Jan. 1 and Jan. 18, 2016.

Around Town

Florissant begins Sharing and Caring Food Drive Until Dec. 17 a barrel for the Sharing and Caring Food Drive will be placed at the Florissant City Hall, the James J. Eagan Center (Parker and Waterford Roads) and the JFK Community Center (Howdershell and Charbonier). All residents are encouraged to donate non-perishable and canned food donations. These donations will be given to organizations and food pantries within the city limits of Florissant.

Please help bring holiday cheer to those families who may not be as fortunate as most.

For further information, please call 921-4466 or 921-4250.

Two McNair fifth graders receive a ride to school courtesy of the Hazelwood Fire Department Usually the presence of a fire truck on a school campus is not a good thing. However with lights flashing, the big red fire truck pulled into the parking lot of McNair Elementary in the Hazelwood School District, with two students, Alison Henry and Jeffrey Ellis onboard.

Henry and Ellis, won the annual fire safety essay contest sponsored by the Hazelwood Fire Protection District. The winners of the contest earned a special ride to school on a fire truck.

The two students, who are both in Beth Brand’s fifth grade classroom, enjoyed their ride to school. Both said this was the best Friday that they ever had.

When asked to describe what riding on a fire truck was like, Henry said, it was really cool and loud. “Riding on the fire truck was a lot of fun and all of the gear is really cool,” she said. “I have never been on a fire truck or on the news, this is great!”

This is the second year that McNair Elementary has participated in the fire safety essay contest.

Photo courtesy Hazelwood School District Alison Henry and Jeffrey Ellis pose along with Hazelwood Firefighters.

McNair Principal Dr. Jennifer Roper was happy to see some community members out at the event. “This is really wonderful,” she said. “I love to see our students be recognized, especially by the greater Hazelwood community and the fire department.”

Ferguson resident celebrates 35-year career helping under-served students Ferguson resident Peppy Howard-Willms has been ferociously committed to bringing high quality educational opportunities to some of the area’s most vulnerable students.

This past month, Great Circle, one of the largest nonprofit behavioral health agencies in Missouri, honored Howard-Willms for her 35 year contribution as an educator and pioneer in spearheading services for children with emotional and behavior challenges, autism and communication challenges.

She began her tenure in 1980 as a special education teacher at Edgewood Children’s Center (now known as Great Circle) in Webster Groves teaching older boys with academic and behavioral challenges.

Through the years, Howard-Willms has worn many “hats” – teacher, principal, special education director, head of human resources, regional vice president, COO, and substitute nurse – just to name a few. Most recently she served as Great Circle’s vice president/chief program officer for education.

Her impact on students needing educational services has been extensive. In 1998 she helped save a smaller agency serving children with communication disorders and autism and facing financial difficulties by arranging its merger with Edgewood Children’s Center.

In 2009, Metropolitan School for students with social disabilities closed unexpectedly. HowardWillms responded to the needs of frantic parents and opened a school to serve those students.

As chief operating officer at Great Circle, Howard-Willms helped facilitate the merger between Edgewood Children’s Center and Boys & Girls Town of Missouri, establishing the footprint for greater growth and expansion of educational services throughout the state.

Howard-Willms oversaw the creation of a residential program for children with autism, one of

Submitted photo Great Circle honored Peppy Howard-Willms for her 35 year contribution as an educator and pioneer in spearheading services for children with emotional and behavior challenges, autism and communication challenges.

the first of its kind in Missouri, for children who are no longer able to reside in a typical family home environment.

Under her leadership the education program achieved full accreditation from Independent Schools Association of the Central States, the leading accreditation body for private schools in the Midwest.

Many school districts in the St. Louis metropolitan area have students with emotional and behavioral disorders, diagnoses on the autism spectrum or social skills deficits, but do not have the capacity to provide these services. Under Howard-Willms’ direction, Great Circle provides these services to more than 40 school districts in the metro area, including Illinois.

She has impacted the lives of thousands of students and children throughout the metropolitan St. Louis area and Missouri. Great Circle held a reception honoring her 35 year-career. She will continue to consult with the agency on a parttime basis.

3

www.kamkencare.com

4

Around Town

December 2, 2015 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Ferguson’s interim police chief submits resignation

St. Louis - 636-294-3012

www.seniorshelpingseniors.com/stlouiscentral

St. Charles - 636-333-9788

www.seniorshelpingseniors.com/stcharles www.seniorshelpingseniors.com/stlouiscentral

Andre Anderson, Interim Police Chief for the city of Ferguson Police Department, submitted his resignation effective Dec. 2. Anderson was appointed by Interim City Manager Ed Beasley to a six month contract to implement long standing improvement in the Ferguson Police Department.

“I am grateful for the opportunity that allowed me to serve as Interim Chief of the Ferguson Police Department,” said Anderson. “My number one goal when I arrived in Ferguson was to regain the trust of residents and the Police Department. Many of our policing initiatives that have

been implemented over the past few months will build a stronger relationship between the department and Ferguson residents.”

“I believe the Ferguson Police Department has made significant gains that can model policing tactics across nation,” added Anderson.

Prior to heading the Ferguson Police Department, Anderson took a leave of absence from the Glendale, Arizona Police Department where he served as a commander. He will resume that position upon his departure.

A nationwide search for a permanent police chief will begin immediately.

Harris-Stowe partners with Kansas City University to provide guaranteed acceptance to medical school

www.treesbywoody.net

Harris-Stowe State University (HSSU) announces a new program partnership with the Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences (KCU), which is the largest medical school in Missouri and one of the oldest osteopathic medical schools in the country. The new program creates a dual undergraduate and graduate degree and offers HSSU students guaranteed acceptance into medical school pending completion of a specialized four-year program and fulfillment of admission requirements.

“Harris-Stowe State University is committed to continuing academic excellence in all our programs and has been particularly focused on STEM-related curriculum for the past few years,” said Dr. Dwaun J. Warmack, president, HarrisStowe State University.

Five eligible Harris-Stowe State University students will be selected to participate each year.

Those students will attend three years at HSSU and then attend their fourth and final year enrolled at KCU where they will matriculate in the one-year Biosciences master’s program on scholarship. Therefore, in four years students will receive an undergraduate degree from HSSU and a graduate degree from KCU. They will also be guaranteed admission into the KCU-COM med-

Photo courtesy Harris-Stowe State University Dr. Marc Hahn (left), president and chief executive officer of KCU shakes hands with Dr. Dwaun J. Warmack, president, Harris-Stowe State University after announcing a new partnership between the universities.

ical school, pending fulfillment of all admissions requirements.

Scouting For Food gathers 1.9 million food items to help feed the hungry Not even snow and plummeting temperatures could keep the Scouts from collecting donated food during Scouting For Food.

Thousands of Scouts from the Greater St. Louis Area Council, Boy Scouts of America braved the elements to perform a good turn for the needy and gathered 1,955,525 food items during the 31st annual food drive. Last year, ScoutSubmitted photo ing For Food collected 1,811,354 items of Thousands of Scouts from the Greater St. Louis Area Council, Boy Scouts of America braved the elements to perform a good turn for the needy and gathered 1,955,525 food items during the 31st annual food drive. food.

One week before, over one million bags were distributed through- Ronald Green, Scout Executive/CEO of the out the region. Scouts, parents, and volunteers Greater St. Louis Area Council. “Their efforts returned to collect the bags filled with canned and our region’s incredible generosity will help and non-perishable food items. Food in the St. those less fortunate for weeks to come. As we Louis area was taken to local fire stations, where enter the holiday season and a time of gratitude, donations were sorted and boxed. Sunset Trans- we are sincerely grateful for the community’s portation provided vehicles, drivers and equip- support of Scouting For Food.”

The food collection was a combined effort ment to transport the boxed food to the St. Louis Area Foodbank for distribution to more than between the Greater St. Louis Area Council, which includes the city of St. Louis, 26 counties 500 partner agencies.

“I am so proud of the Scouts and volunteers in eastern Missouri and 10 counties in southern who persevered through today’s weather to pro- Illinois, and the Lewis and Clark Council headvide this vital service to our community,” said quartered in Belleville, Illinois.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • December 2, 2015

City of Hazelwood arranges more visits of Santa Claus this Holiday season

Around Town

5

Lutheran North senior signs letter of intent Senior Renetha Dickson from Lutheran High School North signed a national letter of intent to play basketball for The University of Tulsa. The daughter of Brandy Bunche and Marcel Dickson, Renetha has scored 1,297 points through her junior year at Lutheran North, including 190 three-pointers. She is Photo courtesy Lutheran High School North the first female Crusader basketball player to sign with a Division 1 school since 1999. She is pictured here with coaches Fehrs, Polk, and Pomerenke, and AD Jon Mueller.

Veterans Day at Delmar Gardens Photo courtesy city of Hazelwood Children living in Hazelwood will have plenty of opportunities to see Santa Claus this holiday season.

Children living in Hazelwood will have plenty of opportunities to see Santa Claus this holiday season. Santa will be making his regular stop at the Hazelwood Community Center for the annual Visit with Santa on Dec. 12, from 10:30 a.m. to noon. In addition, Hazelwood firefighters will be bringing Santa to local neighborhoods as part of their Community Outreach Program during the first two weeks in December.

Admission to the Visit with Santa on Dec. 12 is free and open to the public. Kids of all ages are invited to stop by and share their Christmas wish list with Santa at this event. Refreshments will be served. Parents are reminded to bring their cameras and take photos of their children on Santa’s lap.

Hazelwood firefighters have been working with Santa’s elves in building a new sleigh for him to use which will be mounted on a trailer and pulled by one of the department’s SUVs. The back-up ambulance will be leading the way using its emergency lights and sirens to let residents know when Santa is coming down their street. The HFD will do its best to hit every street in its service jurisdiction.

Santa’s visits to local neighborhoods will begin every week night around 5 p.m. One tour on Saturday, Dec. 5, starts at 12:30 p.m. Large signs will be placed in the neighborhood or subdivision he travels through each night for a two-week period. Small Santa Stop signs will be posted as well, showing residents where Jolly Old St. Nick will be stopping momentarily to get out of his sleigh, pass out candy canes to the kids and wish everyone a Merry Christmas.

The city of Hazelwood extends best wishes to all its residents and their families for a happy holiday season.

Delmar Gardens hosted a Veterans Day Appreciation event for the resident veterans. Al Cochran from Jefferson Barracks presented them medals; Boy Scout Troop 797 did the flag ceremony and gave them hand drawn pictures and personal messages thanking the veterans for their service.

Submitted photo

Time to renew Florissant resident cards All resident cards will expire Dec. 31. Residents may come in at any time during photo ID hours to renew resident cards for 2016 beginning Dec. 1.

A current resident card is required for the following: admission to James J. Eagan Center, JFK Center, or any other recreational facility, to obtain pavilion rental permits or to receive resident rates at Florissant pools, ice rink, classes, or room rentals.

To obtain or renew a Florissant resident card everyone in the household, including all children receiving a card, must be listed on the occupancy permit. Proof of residency includes unpaid utility bill, bank statement, paycheck stub, monthly business statement (i.e. cell phone bill) mailed to the house. Must have name and address dated within the last 30 days.

Residents 21 and older must present photo ID (driver’s license, school ID, etc.) and must show proof of residency. Residents ages 4-20 must be accompanied by a resident parent/legal guardian (18-20 may come without a parent if they can present a bill or bank statement at the address in their own name).

Any Florissant resident 60 years of age or older is qualified to receive a Florissant Golden Age Pass resident card. An acknowledgement on their Resident Card entitles the holder to receive a discounted rate on most programs and admission fees. It also allows them a special discount at various local businesses.

Photo ID hours are 8 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. and cards can be renewed at the James J. Eagan Center (314-921-4466) or the John F. Kennedy Center Daily (314-921-4250).

www.aperioncare.com

6

Business

December 2, 2015 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

SLMBC and St. Louis Regional Chamber merge operations The St. Louis Minority Business Council (SLMBC) and the St. Louis Regional Chamber have reached an agreement to combine their operations into a new entity to help create a more inclusive and equitable St. Louis economy. The merger was officially announced at the St. Louis American Foundation’s Salute to Excellence in Business Awards luncheon.

The merger creates a new organization with a familiar and evermore important name – the St. Louis Minority Business Council, LLC. The new SLMBC’s purpose is to “develop mutually beneficial business relationships between ethnic minority businesses and major buying organizations in the St. Louis bi-state metropolitan area.”

The new St. Louis Minority Business Council will unveil more details about their strategies and programs at a celebration cocktail reception in their new offices with the Regional Chamber on Dec. 10 starting at 5 p.m. in the Regional Collaboration Center at the St. Louis Regional Chamber at 211 North Broadway, 13th Floor in St. Louis. an you believe ThanksThe announcement comes giving is already over! at the end of Global EntrepreThis of course means neurship Week, the world’s largthere are only a few weeks left in the year. Obviously this is one est celebration of innovators of the busiest times of the year and entrepreneurs. “The global and people everywhere will be economy is about innovative and diverse solutions to complex problems and needs. We need everyone participating,” said St. Louis Regional Chamber President and CEO Joe Reagan.

“Initiatives like Accelerate St. Louis and the St. Louis Minority scrambling trying to get things Business Council help more St. done. You probably do not need Louis minority entrepreneurs anything else added to your plate compete in larger markets and right now, but unfortunately the make St. Louis more competiclock is also ticking on a few fitive in the global economy.” nancial planning moves that you have to and/or may need to make According to a recent report before it is too late. on the equity of the St. Louis If you miss these deadlines, the region, racial economic dispariconsequences can be very costly ties cost the St. Louis region $14 and there is no way to turn back billion each year. As highlighted the clock and correct the miscue. in the “Forward thru Ferguson” Here are just a few areas of planreport, the St. Louis region also ning that have year-end deadranks 42 out of 50 for economic lines.

Required Minimum Distribumobility. “Prosperity exists in tions (RMDs) – If you fail to meet the St. Louis region, but not for the required amount by the right everyone. This shared reality is time, there are stiff penalties. the inspiration behind our deRoth Conversions – This popcision to join forces with the ular tax savings move is different St. Louis Regional Chamber,” than Roth contributions and has said St. Louis Minority Business to be done by year end.

Retirement Plan ContribuCouncil President Edward Brytions – In most company sponant, who continues as President sored retirement savings plans, of the new organization. you only have until year end to The new St. Louis Minority contribute and max out your conBusiness Council, powered by tributions. the St. Louis Regional ChamGifts and Charitable Contriber, will identify, develop, and butions – These have to be done implement forward-thinking by the end of the year in order to get a deduction or tax credit for strategies to best support mithe year 2015. nority business enterprises as Remember, the clock is ticking they build capacity, grow their on these and several other planwealth, and create more jobs. ning moves that you have to do, MBEs will have the profesor very well may need to do, besional community services of fore the end of the year. For dethe Council combined with the tailed information on these and other year-end planning moves resources, advocacy, and larger and strategies, give us a call at 360 membership network of the ReIRA. You can contact our office gional Chamber.

The Clock is Ticking

C

in St. Charles at 636-896-4052 or by email at info@360ira.com.

Investment Advisory Services offered through Brookstone Capital Management LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor. Investments and/ or investment strategies involve risk including the possible loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment strategy will achieve its objectives. This information is not intended to be used as the sole basis for financial decisions, nor should it be construed as advice designed to meet the particular needs of an individual’s situation. Content is provided by third parties for informational purposes only and is not a solicitation to buy or sell any products mentioned.

Paid Advertisement

New MD joins SSM Health Medical Group Amy McClintock, MD, has joined SSM Health Medical Group’s location at 12255 DePaul Drive, Suite 600. Dr. McClintock is board certified in both family and sports medicine. A graduate of Saint Louis University School of Medicine, she completed her family medicine residency at Mercy Hospital and her sports medicine fellowship training at Summa Health System. In addition to family medicine, Dr. McClintock specializes in treating sports medicine injuries.

Submitted photo

Brown Elementary and Vantage Credit Union team up with Kurt Warner to raise money Students at Brown Elementary, in the Hazelwood School District raised more than $800 and donated 37 coats for Warner’s Warm Up foundation.

Brown Elementary students spent two weeks collecting change in a contest called “Pennies for Pumpkins.” The students then paraded “pumpkin” bags filled with coins and coats to Vantage Credit Union for donation. Students collected a total of $814.17 for the foundation, which exceeded the amount from last year.

For the past three years, Brown Elementary and Vantage Credit Union have partnered to Photo courtesy Hazelwood School District raise money and collect coats for Warner’s Warm Up. Former Students at Brown Elementary, in the Hazelwood School District raised more than $800 and donated 37 coats for Warner’s Warm Up foundation.

Rams player Kurt Warner, and wife Brenda, started Warner’s Warm Up back in 2001 to provide winter coats to families in need.

NCI’s president recognized with public service award from the Maryland Heights Chamber North County Incorporated (NCI) is pleased to announce Rebecca Zoll, President/CEO of NCI was recognized by the Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce at their 2015 Business Leader of the Year & Best of Maryland Heights Awards Ceremony. Zoll was awarded the Public Service Award for the leadership she and NCI provided during this past year and a half following the civil unrest. NCI’s work to bring regional partners together to help the area’s small businesses and school districts during and after the crisis was one of the reasons Zoll was honored.

Sherry Huibonhoa, President of the Maryland Heights Chamber said of Zoll’s work, “Stepping up to the plate in a time of need in Ferguson is an understatement for Rebecca. NCI created, in partnership with the Regional Business Council, the Reinvest North County Fund. The purpose of the fund, providing assistance to small businesses impacted during the Ferguson crisis.”

Zoll also established partnerships with the St.

www.langinsurance.com

Louis Economic Development Partnership and the St. Louis Regional Chamber, to work with other local, regional and state agencies to bring needed support to area businesses. NCI became a conduit for information about the economic impact to North St. Louis County small business and assisted in coordinating aid to the area.

“Rebecca truly has passion and dedication for her work, we are grateful for all she has done. This award was given to her as a token of our appreciation. The Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce looks forward to our continuous Submitted photo partnership with NCI,” said Huibonhoa.

North County Incorporated is a regional development organization, which acts as a catalyst to define and advocate economic and community development for North St. Louis County. NCI was established in 1977. The Board is composed of community leaders and business owners. Dan Boyle, Esq., of The Boyle Law Firm is the current Chairman of the Board.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • December 2, 2015

NCCS Student of the Month announced Bryant Peppers was honored at the Northwest Chamber of Commerce membership meeting on Nov. 12. Bryant is a senior and has attended North County Christian School since fifth grade. He maintains a 3.86 GPA, is on the Principal’s List, a member of the National Honor Society and serves on the senior class fundraising committee.

Extracurricular activities of Bryant include varsity basketball, track and drama. On week-ends, Bryant can most likely be found volunteering at a homeless shelter in St. Louis. Science and math are Bryant’s favorite subjects. However, this year he loves his Advanced History class where he has the opportunity to Submitted photo participate in week-end reenactments of (From left) Greg Clark, NCCS Superintendent stands with Bryant Peppers-Student of both the Civil War and WWII. the Month and Brian Goldman, Chamber President.

Bryant plans to attend Missouri University of Science and Technology with a major in computer engineering.

Two Hazelwood West students selected for the St. Louis All-Suburban Honor Band Hazelwood West High School students, Sarah Merlenbach and Mashroor Rashid were selected for the Saint Louis Suburban Music Educators Association Concert Band. Merlenbach will play the flute and Rashid will play the baritone saxophone during the January 2016 performance.

The Saint Louis Suburban Music Educators Association Concert Band is an auditioned group of high school students from Saint Louis County and Wentzville areas. Students who are selected for the band are eligible to audiPhoto courtesy Hazelwood School District tion for the Missouri High School All-State Hazelwood West High School students Mashroor Rashid (left) and Sarah Band.

“I am very proud of these students and the Merlenbach were selected for the Saint Louis Suburban Music Educators Association Concert Band. hard work and effort they put into the audition,” said Aaron Jackson, West High School year,” Jackson said.

The students auditioned on prepared music band director. “Both Sarah and Mashroor are ready to take on the next challenge of audition- from the All-State Band set list and were required ing for the All-State Band and Jazz Band.” “I am to play musical scales from memory. Scores are tabulated and ranked in order. sure that they will both do well.”

Merlenbach and Rashid will perform at Ladue “This is quite an honor since several students auditioned. The last time we had a student make Horton Watkins High School on Jan. 10, 2016 at the honor band was during the 2007-2008 school 4:15 p.m.

7

Hazelwood West teacher receives California Casualty Award for Teaching Excellence

Photo courtesy Hazelwood School District Chris Holmes (center) being presented with a $650 check.

Chris Holmes, journalism teacher at Hazelwood West High School and Missouri Teacher of the Year, was named one of 42 public school educators who received the California Casualty Award for Teaching Excellence. This award is one of the nation’s most prestigious honors for public educators. He was recognized for this award on Nov. 4.

During the presentation, California Casualty Marketing Manager, Rebecca Stumpf awarded Holmes with a $650 check for Hazelwood West. Holmes stated that the money will be used for Project Walk, a program developed by teachers to prevent students from dropping out of school.

“We are very excited for Chris to be winning this award and to be representing Hazelwood West and the Hazelwood School District as a whole,” said Hazelwood West Principal Dennis Newell.

Holmes will be honored at the National Education Association Foundation’s Salute to Excellence in Education Gala on Feb. 12, 2016 in Washington, DC. The gala attracts more than 800 of the nation’s leaders from public education, philanthropy, and the private sector.

The Missouri National Education Association nominated Holmes for this award.

www.nccsedu.org

Hazelwood students awarded $100,000 in scholarships to historically black university Students, Ayanna Miller and Tiara Coleman, of Hazelwood East High School were awarded more than $100,000 in scholarships to Fisk University. Both attended the Infinite Scholars Career Fair in September of this year, where they had the opportunity to speak with university representatives from schools across the nation.

Fisk University awarded Miller and Coleman the Clinton B. Fisk Scholarship, valued at $7,500 per year, and granted Photo courtesy Hazelwood School District to first time students with a 3.0 cumulative grade point average. Ayanna Miller (right) and Tiara Coleman, of Hazelwood East High School were awarded more In addition to the Clinton than $100,000 in scholarships to Fisk University.

B. Fisk Scholarship, Coleman was offered the its programs.”

Emerging Leadership Scholarship from the Miller was awarded the Fisk Grant as well, valuniversity. Coleman was selected to receive the ued at $20,000. Miller has dual enrollment, takscholarship based on her volunteering history. ing chemistry classes at both Hazelwood East The senior was proud to say that she has over 500 and Hazelwood West high schools, where she volunteering hours, most she gained from man- says she enjoyed the experience of extracting cafaging the boys’ basketball team at Hazelwood feine and making aspirin. “Learning about mediEast High School. cine and how it’s used to treat ailments is really Coleman wants to study computer science and cool.” she said. Miller plans to obtain a degree in had this to say, “Growing up I always enjoyed chemical engineering. computers, I love learning about the system and

School

www.stladhd.com

8

Learn & Play SUDOKU:

December 2, 2015 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

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.

See solution on page 13

Local Author Spotlight: Michael Bird Michael Bird works as a local contractor in Wentzville. Three years ago he went back to his native state of New Jersey to help with Hurricane Sandy recovery while his family stayed in Missouri. During that time he decided to write his first novel called “The Nation’s Murder” off of a whim of an idea.

He had never read a novel.

“Personally I didn’t like to read,” Bird said. So why write a novel? “I have an active imagination and had a great story to tell. So I had to teach myself how to write a book. After a lot of research and multiple drafts I came up with the first of three volumes of ‘The Nation’s Murder.’”

Bird continued, “I want to show people how when the impossible is sitting in front of you, and people don’t understand why you are trying something like this, that anyone can do their own impossible. With all the hurdles I had to go through, I defeated my impossible. I’m sure you can defeat yours.”

In “The Nation’s Murder” Agent Mick Francis takes command of a mass murder case named The Nation’s Murder that flares up through the United States; only to find that he has to deal with the realization that his deceased wife might be the one behind the plan to balance the insurance company’s earnings, by having the elder members taken out of the equation. Agent Francis leads his team to try to solve this mass murder case which spreads through the country. He finds himself not knowing who to trust when everyone around him gives him a reason not to trust them.

Can be purchased on Amazon and Barnes and Noble

Moore On Life

By Cindy Moore

Holiday leftover The Turkey Bird Day has flown the coop. Thanksgiving, that poor little “thankless” holiday, is just a memory.

It’s so unfortunate that it had the rotten luck to be in the middle of Halloween and Christmas. Being sandwiched in between those two mega holidays causes it to be steamrolled over before there’s even time to make a leftover turkey snack out of the sandwich that it’s in between.

One reason is that Christmas buying is being pushed on us sooner every year. The store decorations are up in August; the holiday flyers come out in September; Halloween hits long enough to give buyers that sugar rush needed to sustain their stamina for extreme shopping, then before Turkey Day hits, the catalogs and coupons arrive. The mailbox is overflowing with not only Black Friday ads, but pre-Black Friday ads, which I understand to mean; Green Monday, Blue Tuesday and Fuchsia Wednesday.

And worse, now many stores have the sass to open their doors on the very holiday, even before the gravy turns lumpy or the bird can baste. I suppose that makes it Brown Thursday, which leaves no time to stuff my face before stuffing myself into the car to make it to the sales before the turkey timer pops out.

But who can resist with tempting deals offered on things such as, the Wafflopper? It’s the biggest rage and latest innovation—a combination

waffle maker and floor mopper. Two amazing products in one and all for the low price of $4.99 – with store coupon – and after sending in the five-page rebate form accompanied with fingerprints, a current blood sample and purchased between the hours of noon and 12:15 p.m. I’ll need at least a half dozen for Christmas gifts!

So for me, there was little time to cook or eat before mapping out strategies according to store locations, shopping hours and timing my door buster deals.

I made it home just in time to see my angryfaced family all in a tiff just because I forgot to turn on the oven before I left. The cold, uncooked bird sat on the counter mocking me.

Holding up my new purchases I cheerily asked, “Waffles anyone?”

Cindy Moore is the mother of three superlative kids, servant of two self-indulgent felines and wife to one nifty husband. Her ficticious occupation? Archeological Humorist: someone who unearths absurdity and hilarity in strange and unusual places including public restrooms, the lint filter, and church meetings. Most recently, she excavated a find in her neighbor’s bird feeder.

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

Crossword Puzzle Theme: Holiday Songs ACROSS 1. Boreal bursts 6. Soldier’s bed 9. Microbrewery product 13. *”We all will be together if the fates ____” 14. Romanian money 15. Plural of pupa 16. Stupid and silly 17. Eyeball shape 18. Bornean ape 19. *”Feliz ____” 21. *”...with your nose so ____, won’t you guide my sleigh...”

23. Gourmet mushroom 24. Windows to the soul?

25. “Hee ___” variety show 28. Persian backgammon 30. Knowledgeable 35. Shining armor 37. Oriental ware, pl.

39. One of seven dwarfs 40. St. Louis’ Gateway 41. *”Mele Kalikimaka is the ____ to say” 43. Singer-songwriter Amos 44. Scout’s mission 46. End of line 47. Mint product 48. Mrs. Potts of “Beauty and the Beast” 50. Falling-out 52. Lamb serving 53. Thomas the Engine’s warning 55. Plays for pay 57. Part of a flower, pl.

60. *The weather is frightful but this is so delightful 64. Natural talent 65. Nightcap rocks 67. Run ____ of the law 68. Full of curd 69. *”Jolly Old Saint Nicholas, Lean your ____ this way” 70. First light, pl.

71. Algonquian people 72. Dashboard acronym 73. Wipe it clean to start fresh DOWN 1. No this without pain?

2. Longer forearm bone 3. Member of people of eastern Europe 4. Second T in T&T 5. ABBA’s home 6. Doofus 7. *”____ the fields we go laughing all the way”

8. Short and plump 9. Town 10. Sashimi choice 11. “____ Buy Me Love” 12. Liquor store pony 15. Composed and self-assured 20. Like exes 22. Christian minister, abbr.

24. Most avant-garde 25. *”It” in “...but the very next day you gave it away” 26. Come to terms 27. Neopagan religion 29. German industrial valley 31. Drilling group 32. Thread holder 33. Chill-inducing 34. *”The fire is slowly ____, and my dear, we’re still goodbying”

36. Do this until you drop?

38. Finger move 42. Charted record 45. *”You better watch out! You better ____ ____” 49. Beneficiary of holiday toy drives 51. Found on a tire 54. Basketry stick 56. Butcher’s refuse 57. Its out of focus 58. Like pink steak 59. Assistant 60. 4 years to a President 61. Caucus state 62. Litter member 63. Someone ____ 64. TV monitor, acr.

66. Part of graduate’s ensemble

See answers on page 13

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • December 2, 2015

Movie

“The Night Before”

9

By Steve Bryan: Rated - R

‘The Night Before’ is an unwelcome Christmas present you’ll want to return “The Night Before” is the type of holiday film that might make you say “Bah! Humbug!” A Christmas comedy that’s too naughty to be nice, the plot focuses more on debauchery and drugs than the true meaning of the season. Though there are positive messages in the story, the foul language and substance abuse take away from the good elements.

Joseph Gordon-Levitt plays Ethan, a young man who lost his parents on Christmas Eve in 2001. In the ensuing years, his buddies Isaac (Seth Rogen) and Chris (Anthony Mackie) made a tradition out of spending that night with him. They typically celebrate Christmas by drinking and partying, but Isaac and Chris do have adult responsibilities these days.

The three male leads are all fine actors, but even they cannot rise completely above the drug-fueled humor of “The Night Before.” Jonathan Levine, who directed GordonLevitt and Rogen in the engaging dark comedy “50/50,” steps behind the camera again, but this film lacks real focus and cohesiveness.

As a dad-to-be Isaac, Rogen embodies the fear and confusion that comes with parenthood. Given a care package of hallucinogens and narcotics by his wife, Rogen becomes a poster boy for every anti-drug campaign ever mounted. He consumes mushrooms and snorts cocaine with fearless abandon, hallucinating his way through Christmas Eve. Joseph Gordon-Levitt has some fun moments as Ethan, especially during the karaoke scenes. It’s hard to believe, though, that his more

successful friends would let him flounder through 14 years of his life. Lizzy Caplan works well opposite Gordon-Levitt as Diana, Ethan’s former girlfriend who runs into him on Christmas Eve. Caplan and the other women in “The Night Before” fare better than their male counterparts. The delight-

ful Jillian Bell plays Betsy, Isaac’s very pregnant wife who gives him a free pass for the evening.

Bell, so delightful in the recent “Goosebumps” movie, plays it straight against Rogen’s madness and adds some rare quality to the piece.

As the mysterious Mr. Green, Michael Shannon ties all the story threads together. Playing a character inspired by “A Christmas Carol,” Shannon imparts rare wisdom and unity in an unstructured story. Playing himself, James Franco makes a raucous appearance that, while funny, adds little to the overall plot.

With so much talent in the cast, “The Night Before” should have been something unique and special for the holiday season. In reality, it’s like opening up a beautifully-wrapped package on Christmas morning and finding a lump of coal inside.

“The Night Before,” rated R for drug use, language throughout, some strong sexual content and graphic nudity, currently is playing in theaters.

“The Night Before” photos courtesy of Columbia Pictures 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.

www.TheSarahCommunity.com

www.concertarts.org

10

December 2, 2015 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Sports

twitter.com/mycnews Silent auction for student athlete awards The 4th Annual Junior National Elite Student Athlete Awards (JNE) Banquet and Auction will take place on Sunday, December 6 at Orlando Gardens Banquet Center in Maryland Heights from 5 to 9 p.m.

The mission is to develop well-rounded athletes both inside the classroom and on the football field and to provide an experience that enhances their lives and the lives of their family members.

Sponsoring or supporting the JNE Banquet and Auction is a great way for you to share your business or branding while helping this fundraising event to be a blockbuster.

The JNE banquet honors the top football players/student scholar athlete’s finalists from sixth, seventh and eighth grade as well as the top high school players. * Making a brighter future for some outstanding individuals

www.byerlyrv.com

Guns ‘N Hoses a big hit The event Thanksgiving Eve saw celebrities and common people sharing the same goal to assist first responders who have given their lives in the line of duty. Backstoppers directs the funds to the families of these fallen heroes.

With 15 boxing matches and two mixedmartial-arts bouts, the police won the majority of the events.

Much thanks go out to the volunteers who orchestrate the event.

Part of this group includes former third baseman of the Cardinals David Freese and John Sanders pictured.

dium. The naming rights to the stadium will be changing shortly, more to follow on that story.

Congratulations to Tim McConkey who has been promoted to Sr. Director of Ticket Operations of the team.

He is excited for the upcoming season and cannot wait to bring fans new promotion nights and fresh exciting in-game promotions.

Tim enjoys selling group tickets the most, “It’s rewarding when I go check on the fans that buy group tickets and they are enjoying themselves at a Rascals game.”

Go to www.RiverCityRascals.com for more information. * Have fun Indoor football team Raiders add local coach to staff Head coach Corey Bethany of the River City Raiders has strengthened his group by adding a local coach to the squad.

Greg Purdum is the head football and track coach of Troy Buchanan High School.

The Raiders play in the American Indoor Football league and will start the season around February in their home field the Family Arena.

The team is in the Northern Division of the league along with 10 other teams. The Southern Division also has 10 teams. The league has been in existence going on four years.

For more information go to www.IndoorRaiders.com * Great addition UMSL Announces 2016 Sports Hall of Fame Class The University of Missouri-St. Louis class features four student-athletes, one team and one coach.

The inductees include: • Allyson DeFosset (softball) • Josh Morgan (baseball) • Dennis Spitzer (baseball) • Dale Westerholt (baseball) • The 1968-69 men’s basketball team • Denise Silvester (former volleyball coach) * Not easy to do Tune into Your Health Plus Radio Show, Every Saturday at 8 a.m. on KSLQ 104.5 FM

Photo courtesy John Sanders David Freese (left) and John Sanders at Guns ‘N Hoses.

* First class event A guided tour of six Louisiana Churches decorated for the holidays.

Listen to beautiful music performed at each location

168 days to the 2016 season of the River City Rascals The team will be starting their 17th season in the Frontier League in O’Fallon playing at Ozzie Smith Sports Complex, TR Hughes Sta-

For more information go to www.YourHealthPlus.info.

One-hundred percent natural products to help focus, reduce stress, more energy, curb your appetite, healthiest coffee, anti-aging serum and more…

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, and co-hosted SportsRadioSTL.com, among many other activities.

Begins at 3 p.m. at the Bethel AME Church located at 6th and Tennessee.

www.Louisiana-Mo.com Pinterest.com LouisianaMO

888.642.3800 Facebook.com VisitLouisiana

www.StCharlesConventionCenter.com

www.matadordiamond.com

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • December 2, 2015

Recipe

11

Smart holiday indulgence With all the hustle and bustle of the holidays, great tasting foods that feature healthy ingredients, such as whole fruits and vegetables prepared in unique and interesting ways, can help deliver healthful indulgence fit for a celebration.

Grapes from California are naturally beautiful and come in three vibrant colors that add a pleasing crunch and light touch of sweetness to main dishes, sides, salads and desserts. The recipes included here showcase the unique way in which fresh grapes can help create palate-pleasing dishes. Heart-healthy grapes are also an

ideal snack on their own and a refreshing break from the indulgent holiday fare present at many celebrations.

California grapes are available throughout the holiday season and into January. For more delicious grape recipes, visit GrapesfromCalifornia.com.

Healthy Holiday Snacking Tips • Take a practical approach to your holiday munching to keep over-indulging in check.

• Focus on people first, food second.

• Have a healthy snack before the party, so you don’t arrive hungry. Fresh grapes and

cheese, or hummus are tried and true options.

• Be picky. Choose only the indulgences that are truly worth it or special to you.

• Contribute a simple, but healthy item to the holiday table. Fresh grapes are an easy choice: they are lovely to look at and sweetly satisfying.

Feta Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Grape-Port Sauce Servings: 4

Fresh Fruit Pizza Tart Servings: 10 Ingredients: 16.5 ounces sugar cookie dough, prepared 4 ounces nonfat cream cheese, softened 1/4 cup low-fat sour cream 3 tablespoons granulated sugar 1 1/4 cups black California grapes 1/2 cup red California grapes 2 kiwifruit, pared and sliced Directions: Heat oven to 350 F. Pat cookie dough into bottom of greased 10-inch tart pan. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool completely.

In electric mixer, beat cream cheese and sour cream. Gradually add sugar; beat until completely mixed and fluffy. Spread mixture over entire surface of each pan of baked cookie dough.

Arrange grapes and other fruit as desired, covering entire surface with fruit; press gently. Refrigerate until chilled.

Nutrition information per serving: 275 calories (35% calories from fat); 11 g total fat (3 g saturated fat); 4 g protein; 41 g carbohydrate; < 1 g fiber; 20 mg cholesterol; 214 mg sodium.

Roasted Squash and Grape Salad with Tahini

Directions: Make pocket in each chicken breast by cutting horizontally from thickest side almost to opposite side. Spoon cheese into each pocket. Secure pockets with wooden skewers, if desired. Brush chicken pieces on both sides with 1 teaspoon olive oil.

Sprinkle with salt and red pepper flakes.

Servings: 4 Ingredients: 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 pounds), peeled, seeded and cut into 1/2-inch-thick slices 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil salt and freshly ground black pepper 2 tablespoons sesame tahini 1 small clove garlic, minced 1 tablespoon lemon juice 2 1/2 tablespoons hot water pinch of cayenne pepper 1 cup halved red California grapes 1/2 teaspoon za’atar spice blend Directions: Heat oven to 475 F.

baking sheet lined with foil or parchment. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, and roast until squash is tender, about 20 minutes. Transfer to platter.

In large nonstick skillet, heat 2 teaspoons of remaining oil over medium heat. Add chicken. Cook uncovered for 12 minutes, turning once. Carefully add 1/4 cup chicken broth to skillet. Cook covered for 3-5 minutes more or until chicken is no longer

In small bowl, whisk together tahini, garlic, lemon, water, cayenne pepper, salt and pepper, to taste. Sprinkle grapes over squash and drizzle with tahini sauce. Sprinkle with za’atar and serve.

Nutrition information per serving: 225 calories (44% calories from fat); 11 g total fat (1.6 g saturated fat); 4 g protein; 31 g carbohydrate; 5 g fiber; 0 mg cholesterol; 238 mg sodium.

Toss squash with oil and spread on

Beets, Grapes and Walnut Salad Servings: 4 Ingredients: 6 small beets (a mix of red, Chioggia and golden), washed well 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, divided salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 small clove garlic, minced 1 tablespoon rice vinegar 1 teaspoon tamarind concentrate 3 tablespoons walnut oil 3 cups arugula 1 cup halved green California grapes 1/4 cup toasted walnuts Directions: Heat oven to 400 F. Peel beets, cut into 1/2-inch wedges and toss with olive oil, salt and pepper, keeping red and yellow beets separate. Place beets on foil- or parchmentlined baking sheet. Roast until sharp knife pierces beets easily, about 35-40 minutes. Let cool.

While beets are roasting, whisk together garlic, vinegar, tamarind, walnut oil, salt and pepper, to taste. Toss beets with some dressing. Divide arugula among 4 serving plates and top with beets. Sprinkle with grapes, drizzle with more dressing, sprinkle with walnuts and serve.

Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (about 6 ounces each) 1/2 cup (2 ounces) crumbled feta cheese 4 teaspoons olive oil, divided 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes 1/2 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth, divided 1 cup thinly sliced onion 2 cups red California grapes 1/4 cup port wine 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary

Nutrition information per serving: 257 calories (63% calories from fat); 19 g total fat (2 g saturated fat); 4 g protein; 21 g carbohydrate; 4.5 g fiber; 0 mg cholesterol; 247 mg sodium.

pink. Remove chicken from skillet. Cover chicken to keep warm. If any liquid remains in skillet, gently boil until liquid evaporates.

Carefully add remaining 1 teaspoon oil to skillet.

Stir in onion. Cook uncovered over medium-high heat until onion is soft. Add grapes. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, about 3 minutes or until grapes begin to split. Remove and set aside about 3/4 of grape-onion solids, leaving liquid and remaining grape-onion mixture in skillet.

Stir remaining 1/4 cup chicken broth, port wine and vinegar into grape mixture in skillet. Bring to boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered 3-5 minutes or until liquid portion is reduced to about 1/3 cup. Stir in reserved grape-onion solids.

To serve, remove wooden skewers from chicken, if using. Place chicken on serving plates and spoon grape mixture over chicken. Garnish with rosemary.

Nutrition information per serving: 368 calories (28% calories from fat); 11 g total fat (3 g saturated fat); 42 g protein; 20 g carbohydrate; 2 g fiber; 108 mg cholesterol; 378 mg sodium.

12

What’s Happening

December 2, 2015 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Send your event to editor@mycnews.com and we'll print it!

Events Dec. 5: Christmas with Santa Old Town Florissant Christmas with Santa will take place from 2 – 4:30 p.m. and concludes with Christmas Tree Lighting at 5 p.m. The festivities begin at 2 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall with seasonal music. The tree lighting at the end of the activities concludes the day. Santa Claus will arrive at City Hall at 2:15 p.m. and welcomes all children to visit him. (There is a charge to have your picture with Santa). You can also make a craft (sponsored by the St. Louis County Library), decorate a cookie donated by Helfer’s, have your face painted by the Valley of Flowers Queen and her maids, let Cookie the Clown make your very own balloon sculpture, listen to a Christmas story, listen to wonderful seasonal music and of course have cookies and cocoa. There

may even be a surprise! Shops will be open along rue St. Francois.

Dec. 5: Project Liftoff Project Liftoff is a drug free, alcohol free, tobacco free holiday D.A.R.E party sponsored by the city of Florissant and Florissant Youth Advisory Commission from 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. at the James J. Eagan Center for 5th – 8th grade. There will be DJ music, a game room, ice skating, swimming, contests and door prizes. Refreshments include free pizza and Pepsi products. Admission is $6 in advance, $8 day of event.

A Florissant resident card is required to purchase ticket. Tickets required upon entry. Tickets are on sale now at the JFK Center or JJE Center. Tickets will not be sold at the door. For more information call the James J. Eagan Center at 9214466 or JFK Center at 921-4250.

Dec. 6: Christmas tree lighting ceremony Join the city of Overland to celebrate the Sixth Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6 p.m. at Erickson Plaza (located on the corner of Woodson Road and Midland Blvd). There will be hot cocoa, Christmas cookies, and Christmas carols available following the lighting. This is no admission cost for this event and is open to the public.

Dec. 6: Christmas house tour The 2015 Ferguson Twilight Christmas House Tour is scheduled from 3 – 7 p.m. This very popular Christmas event brings holiday visitors from all parts of Missouri and Illinois to view a nice selection of exceptional homes decked out for Christmas. The 2015 tour includes examples of Arts and Crafts bungalows, mid-century moderns and cedar shingled “Capes”. Exactly 100 percent of the

tour proceeds are donated to the Ferguson Caring League. Tickets are $12 in advance or $15 on tour day. Tickets can be purchased at City Hall, Corner Coffee Shop or Paul’s World Famous Market. On Dec. 6, tickets can be purchased from noon until 4 p.m. and all tickets and maps will be picked up at Pearce Neikirk and Partners Realtors at 427 S Florissant Rd. in Ferguson. For more information call Pearce at 314 495-2304 or email pearce4homes@yahoo.com.

Dec. 9: Health seminar Whether you have arthritis pain in your fingers, nerve pain from carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow or a sore shoulder, Dr. Aaron Weber can suggest a solution. The seminar will take place on Wednesday, Dec. 9 from 6 to 8 p.m. at DePaul Hospital’s May Conference Center at 12303 DePaul Drive. Register to attend Dr. Weber’s seminar and enjoy dinner as he discusses the latest surgical and nonsurgical treatments for bone or joint pain from your fingertips to your shoulder. Bring your questions with you! The program is free, but space is limited and reservations are required. Please call 1-866-SSMDOCS (1-866-776-3627) to register by phone or register online at ssmhealth. com/orthopedics.

Dec. 10-12: Christmas Light Trolley It’s that time again for you to be the judge on the “Christmas Light Trolley” ride, scouting for the best Christmas Light display in Overland. Tour dates are set for Dec. 10, 11, and 12 with trolleys leaving at various times each night.

Space is limited and tickets will go on sale starting Nov. 28 at 10 a.m. at the Overland Community Center. Tickets are $4.50 per person. (Note: Children 5 years and younger may ride free as long as they sit on a parent’s lap during the entire ride) Please call the Overland Community Center for ticket availability. Tour Times are as follows: Dec. 10 at 6 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Dec. 11 at 6 p.m., 7:30 p.m., and 9 p.m. and Dec. 12 at 5:30 p.m., 7 p.m., and 8:30 p.m.

Dec. 11-13: Christmas Celebrations at St. Ferdinand Shrine On Dec. 11 begin in the Schoolhouse at 6 p.m., view the decorations, enjoy food and drink, purchase Christmas Items, raffles will be held for some Christmas decorations. Take your nighttime tour of the Shrine, (first time ever offered) given by people representing the 1880’s. Reservations are required for the Friday events. Only 200 ticket packages will be sold. The package cost is $20 per person. Note: It is recommended children under the age of 12 do not take the nighttime tour. Call the office at 314-837-2110 to make your reservations for the tour or email at oldstferdinandshrine@gmail.com. Include your phone number in the email.

Tours last 25 minutes. Carriage rides will run from 6:30- 9:30 p.m. On Dec. 12 the Schoolhouse will be open from 1 - 4:30 p.m. Tours of the Shrine are available for everyone with people from the 1880’s telling you the story. The Schoolhouse will be beautifully decorated and all activities listed for Friday will be available on Saturday except the Carriage Rides. The cost of the tour and all other “happenings” is $5 per person.

Advance reservations are not needed.

On Dec. 13 the weekend ends with the annual Christmas Concert beginning at 3 p.m. in the Church. The concert features the choirs of St. Ferdinand Parish, plus The Christian Community Choir with voices from both Catholic and Protestant Churches. After the Concert there will be a reception for everyone in the schoolhouse hall. Concert is free but there is a free will collection.

www.LaserLipoAndVeins.com

Dec. 17: Blood Drive Maryland Heights to host blood drive on from 2 - 6 p.m. at Maryland Heights Centre at 2344 McKelvey Road in Maryland Heights.

Dec. 17: Christmas house decorating contest Applications for the Christmas House Decorating Contest are free to Florissant residents and will be available beginning Nov. 23 at the James J. Eagan Center, JFK Community Center and Florissant City Hall. Parks and Recreation prizes are awarded to the best decorated homes. Temporary yard signs acknowledging 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners will be posted. The city will remove the signs within one week.

Deadline to apply is Dec. 14 at 5 p.m.

Judging will begin at 6 p.m. on Dec 17.

Dec. 19: Visit with Santa Visit with Santa at Sunset Park Nature Lodge from 9 - 10:30 a.m. You may obtain tickets by showing your resident card and paying $1 or donating one canned food item per ticket. Only Florissant Residents may purchase tickets. A limited number of tickets will be available. Tickets will be available at the JFK or JJE centers. Light refreshments will be provided. Bring a camera for a photo with Santa at the beautiful Sunset Park Nature Lodge. For more information call 921-4250 or 921-4466.

Dec. 19: Blood drive The city of Bellefontaine Neighbors with the American Red Cross will be conducting a Blood Drive from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Hazelwood Central High School at15875 New Halls Ferry Rd. This event is sponsored by the city of Bellefontaine Neighbors and Sickle Cell Association. The purpose of this drive is to promote registration of minorities with the National Registry for Bone Marrow.

Jan. 23: STEM Extravaganza The Hazelwood School District STEM Extravaganza is a showcase of educational opportunities in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) for students in kindergarten through 12th grade. The event will take place on from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., at Hazelwood Central High School at 15875 New Halls Ferry Road in Florissant. At the STEM Extravaganza, attendees will participate in demonstrations and hands-on activities for all grade levels, exhibits, speakers, college representatives and more. Participants scheduled to attend include: Boeing, Ameren Missouri, and Washington University in St. Louis, BJC Healthcare, U.S. Navy, Danforth Plant Science, St. Louis Community College, FIRST Robotics, Project Lead the Way, and Hazelwood School District math and science departments. This event is free and open to the public.

Recurring Events Mondays: A cappella singers Men of Harmony a cappella singers meet at Salem Evangelical Free Church at New Halls Ferry at Pohlman Road at 7 p.m. Not church affiliated. Group is always looking for new members. Call Al at 314-993-6134 for more information.

Tuesdays: TOPS (Take off pounds sensibly) From 9:15 - 10:30 a.m. located at John F. Kennedy Center/Henry Koch Ctr., Howdershell Rd. at Charbonier Rd., Florissant. For more info contact Paul or Connie McConnell, 314-831-5476.

Every 4th Tuesday of the month: Fort Bellefontaine Memorial American Legion Post 335 meeting 6:30pm, Fort Bellefontaine Memorial American Legion Post 335, 800 Chambers Road in Bellefontaine Neighbors.

Those interested in membership are invited to attend.

Every Tuesday: Bingo Evening at Florissant Elks Lodge #2316 Doors at 4:30pm, games begin at 6pm, Florissant Elks Lodge #2316, 16400 New Halls Ferry Rd. in Florissant. For more information, call 314.921.2316.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • December 2, 2015 Wednesdays: Are you interested in losing weight?

Check out TOPS #361 Florissant group of supportive ladies. Meetings are on Wednesday mornings beginning at 9:15 am at Bethel Providence Christian Church located at 14700 New Halls Ferry Rd in Florissant. If interested, please contact Shirley at 314-895-3528 for more information.

Every Wednesday: Bingo Morning at Florissant Elks Lodge #2316 Florissant Elks Lodge #2316, 16400 New Halls Ferry Rd. in Florissant. Doors at 7:30am, games begin at 9:30am. 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 Citizens’ Bingo Clubs: 314.839.7604.

Every 1st Wednesday of the Month: Stroke Support Group 3-4pm, Center for Senior Renewal, Detrick Building 1st floor, 11133 Dunn Rd. For more information, contact Jamie Stevens at 314.653.5331.

makeup session sponsored by the American Cancer Society. A licensed cosmetologist teaches a session of scarf tying, shows a parade of hats, and provides each participant with a makeup kit. Light refreshments are served. Info: 314.344.6090.

Every Monday, Health Tips With Mary Swip 11am,. The Bridge at Florissant, 1101 Garden Plaza Drive in Florissant. Sales Director Mary Swip will have a guest speaker come talk about health and wellness tips All Bridge events are free, but require reservations. Please RSVP by calling 314.831.0988.

Every 3rd Friday of the month: Bingo 2pm, Life Care Center of Florissant, 1201 Garden Plaza Dr. For more information, call 314.831.3752.

Every Friday: The Bridge at Florissant Hot Diggity Dog Build your own hot dog. 11:30am, The Bridge at Florissant, 1101 Garden Plaza Dr. in Florissant. To RSVP, call 314.831.0988.

Every third Tuesday of every month: Grief Support Group sponsored by DePaul Hospital 11:30am-1pm, Bridgeton Trails Library, 3455 McKelvey Rd. For more information, call 314.344.6873.

Last Saturdays: Writers Workshop: 10am - 1:30pm, Baden Liberary, 8448 Church Rd., 314.388.2400

Diabetes Basics: 314.344.7024 for info or 314.344.7220 to enroll.

Sundays: Meat shoot Come and enjoy the meat shoots at American Legion Post 444 located on 17090 Old Jamestown Road between Sinks Rd and Lindbergh starting at noon until dusk every Sunday - rain or shine. Great meat prizes awarded.

Crisis Nursery: Committed to preventing child abuse and neglect, the Crisis Nursery provides short-term, 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: 314.768.3201. Or 636.947.0600, www. crisisnurserykids.org

Every Sunday: Tours at Old St. Ferdinand Shrine #1 Rue St. Francois St., Florissant, 1 – 4pm, through October. Donations accepted. Docents needed. 314.921.7582, vicray01@aol.com Church Tuesdays & Thursdays: Chapel of the Cross Lutheran Church GriefShare Support Group Tuesdays from 2 - 4pm and Thursday from 6:30 - 8:30pm, 11645 Benham Rd., 314.741.3737 Health Nicotine Anonymous Nicotine Anonymous is a 12 Step Program, free and available to all seeking recovery from nicotine addiction based on principals of AA. Only requirement is a desire to stop using nicotine. Voluntary contributions are accepted. For further info call 314-822-2066 or visit WWW.Nicotene-Anonymous.org Every Monday-Friday: Evening Front Desk Volunteers Needed 4-7pm, Christian Hospital, 1225 Graham Rd. in Florissant. For more information, please contact Lee Shields at 314.653.5032.

Look Good…Feel Better SSM Cancer Care at DePaul Health Center, 12303 DePaul Drive. Radiation OncologyBridgeton. Attend a great

SSM DePaul Healthy Happenings

SUDOKU answers from page 8

CROSSWORD answers from page 8

Every Mon. & Tues.: Healthy Meal Replacement (HMR) Program Orientation Mondays: 6–7pm Tuesdays: Noon– 1pm SSM DePaul Wellness Center.

Attend a free orientation 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.

www.VillaAtRiverwood.com

Nutrition Education: SSM DePaul registered dieticians can help you make sure your diet is right for you, 314.344.6157 Group at Christian Hospital To register call 314.747.9355 Tuesdays: Alcohol and Drug Information Meeting Christian Hospital Building 2, Suite 401, 6:30 – 8pm, 314.839.3171, free and open to the public.

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

Wednesdays: STEPS Schizophrenia Support Group 6:30 - 7:30pm, 314.839.3171.

Center for Senior Renewal: Day treatment programs for older adults dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, loss and early signs of dementia, 314.653.5123.

Christian Hospital Recovery Center: Outpatient mental health and substance abuse treatment for adults, 314.953.8100.

13

Volunteers Needed at Christian Hospital: Call 314.653.5032

Now: SilverSneakers Senior Wellness Program at the Maryland Heights Centre A fun, energizing program that helps older adults take greater control of their health by encouraging physical activity and offering social events. A Silver Sneakers membership includes access to the city’s Fitness Centre with stateof-the-art fitness equipment and circuit training. Membership is available at little or no cost through your health plan. To find out if you are eligible, visit www.silversneakers.com or call 314.738.2599.

2nd Tuesday of Every Month: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group Meeting Meeting to be held at Sarah Care of Bridgeton Adult Day Center 11977 St. Charles Rock Road, Suite 121-124, Bridgeton, MO 63044. Join our Support Group for Mutual, Emotional Support and Education. You are not alone. For information, contact Deborah Mabrie at 314-291-5210 or Ferd Fetsch at 314291-3021 Email: dbland@sarahcare. com ferdfetsch@sbcglobal.net.

Every Friday: Our Lady of Fatima #4429 Knights of Columbus Bingo 6:45pm, Knights of Columbus Hall, 1216 Teson Rd. in Hazelwood. For more information call 314.731.9330

What’s Happening

www.lindenwood.edu

14

December 2, 2015 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Consignment

Lien Sale

help wanted

FOR Rent

help wanted

NOVENA

Real Estate

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.

Say this prayer 9 times a day for 9 days, then publish. Your prayers will be answered.

It has never been known to fail.

Thank you, St. Jude

R.H.

Let help advertise YOUR sale!

Call Brooke at 636.697.2414

SERVICES PET CEMETERY

over 2,500 pet burials; over 6 acres; over 40 yrs old. 314-576-3030 www.memoryparkpetcemetery.info www.memoryparkpetcemetery.info

Check it Out! www.MYCNEWS.com

www.everyonebenefits.com/GaryB

15

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • December 2, 2015

CLASSIFIEDS

www.treesbywoody.net

www.scrubbydutch.com

www.HomeWashersStl.com

www.cleancarpetworkofart.com

Statewide Classifieds

2139 Bryan Valley Commercial Driv O’Fallon, MO 63366 P 636.379.1775

PublishedSt.Weekly Since 1921 Louis St. Charles Combined

F 636.379.1632 www.MYCNEWS.com cnews@centurytel.net ofcnews@centurytel.net

2139 Bryan Valley Commercial Drive O’Fallon, MO 63366

St. Charles

Combined St. Louis

St. Louis

St. Charles

Combined

Our publications use a combination of online subscription, direct mail, home delivery, and voluntary circulation methods.

Voluntary refers to a circulation method where St. readers Louis “voluntarily” choose to pick up a publication to read. This method is powerful because locations are carefully chosen and newsstands are monitored for 100% pick up. Community News has developed a network of over 650 convenient locations including every major supermarket chain. Our voluntary method is powerful for three reasons: 1 QUALITY READERS A voluntary reader is an interested reader, actively outside of the home, in stores, seeking out information about the community 2 TOTAL UTILITY 100% pick up assures no wasted papers. Every paper reaches an interested reader, yielding a full value for the entire print run.

3 EXPANDING SET Every print run reaches a unique group of readers,

Published Every Week Since 1921 Family-Owned & Operated St. Louis

St. Charles

Combined

FREE Online Subscription at

www.mycnews.com -

58206_CirMap.indd 2

www.mycnews.com

N C RAZY

Inside...C OUPO

Follow thes e tips to keep your family and pets safe from mosquitoes.

for 86 Years 1921 - Weekly d Established s & Operate Family Owned & St. Charles Countie Louis Serving St.

news.com www.myc

C o o li n g It

July 11, 2007

Vol 9 No 28

Mosquito Seas on

Annual The 16th Fair Women’s , Fit will be Fun ! lous and Fabu

!

By Shelly A.

Schneider

FOUR GREAT PUBLICATIONS

Missouri is home to about mosquitoes.

Some live less 50 species of while others than may live several a week, months.

FofIT online cnews@centurytel.net Our publications use a combination FUN!subscription, Fair Women’s ofcnews@centurytel.net Combined

Community Health and ment states the Environit is only the female mosquito that “bites” and she does so to obtain blood meal the needed While mosquito to lay viable eggs. more than drive es usually do little the family from doors to the the outindoors, they carriers of are sometim dang es may contract erous diseases. Hum ans malaria, yellow gue, and encephal fever, denitis; and dogs heartworm. may get Most of these the exception diseases, with of canine heartwor human encephalitis and m, have been eliminated fairly well from Health officials the entire United States. said outbreak to borne encephal s of mosquiitis have periodica occurred in lly Missouri “Canine heartwor . m is an problem, with endemic ers escalating costs to animal owneach warned. “Effective year,” health officials measures including mosquito control the eliminati swamp areas, on of to keep road and maintenance efforts ditches clear have done and much to control water free mosquito for disease transmission. ” toes: floodwat er and permane If you believe mosquitoes. nt water Floodwater ing problem you have a mosquito breedmosquitoes their eggs on on your property, lay sure, damp soil where but are not please call will occur flooding the Departm or, in some munity Hea ent of Comcases, above water line lth and the the in tree holes, Environme tainers, or nt. Ofartificial con- ficials will make an inspectio other small n and evaluabodies of water. tion appointment, When rain and then recomme fills these areas (ARA) and floods the possible solution. nd a - National St. Charles in the larval County residents Friendship stages, broods greatest can upload have the prevention of mosquito Day is Aumethods right es fingertips a two-mintoes are mainly at their . gust 5 and - property Proper maintenance of the pest variety, ute video the first to and are preventio is the first step toward of the in light of emerge in the describi ng mosquito spring months.

Many of these n. All trash a recent and refuse that mosquitoes how a close ers and may are strong flycould survey that range up to property should friend lights ten miles or be adequate more drained, i n d i c ate s ly graded and up their life a blood meal to prevent any women ................3 to lay eggs. pools or puddles water that may to www.rastory.................. of last ten days place high Cover .6 or County diancer longer. their eggs directly mosquito control ibv a l u e er.......................

McCauley lists bons.com. officer Barry Shelly Schneid on the water surface, several things 9 on their may do to cies in this Florissant ..........8, keep mosquito homeowners friendships, group do es from ruining test closes Old Olay is offering venture0,far theirTown 11from their summer: breeding sites. not...........1 a chance to Aug. treat themselv women Charles 31, trip to New es with a Explore St. York City. in October. ...............12 See MOSQUIT No Olay is hosting City . . . . ..............

O page 3 Town sary. For official purchase is neces........ a summer On the . .......414 called “Light School . .

Up Your Life. contest www.radianceribbcontest rules, visit Chamber. . . . . .Baute... ...... ........ ” Women s with Gary ons.com.

Religion.

5 ...

Sport

Huneke Publications, Inc. offers fo publications: two weekly newspape direct mail, home delivery, and voluntary circulation S! methods.

LOU U B and two news magazines, eac Voluntary refers to a circulation method where readers www.mycnews.com FA covering a unique market segme “voluntarily” choose to pick up a publication to read. This within St. Louis County and S method is powerful because locations are carefully chosen Charles County. As a member and newsstands are monitored for 100% pick up. Community FOUR GREAT PUBLICATIONS the Missouri Press Association, News has developed a network of over 650 convenient Huneke Publications, Inc. offers four of our publications feature verifie locations including every major supermarket chain. Our publications: two weekly newspapers circulation and an earned credibili voluntary method is powerful for three reasons: Movie Talk and two news magazines, each among our peers.

St. Charles Combined 1 segment QUALITY READERS A voluntary reader is an interested covering a unique market reader, within St. Louis County andactively St. outside of the home, in stores, seeking out Charles County. As a information member ofabout the community 2 TOTAL the Missouri Press Association, all UTILITY 100% pick up assures no wasted COMMUNITY NEWS papers.

Every paper reaches an interested reader, yielding a of our publications feature verified First published in 1921, Community Ne circulation and an earned fullcredibility value for the entire print run. published weekly newspaper in the St. L among our peers.

3 EXPANDING SET Every print run reaches a unique area and has established a large audien group of readers, Community News circulates across a br because the majority with newstands, home throw and online of voluntary readers are occasional readers.

COMMUNITY NEWS COMMUNITY NEWS - St. Charles County Over time,weekly these unique First published in 1921, Community News is the longest Published with a powerful circulation combination of OUR TOWN MAGAZINE published weekly newspaper in the St. Louis metropolitan newsstands, throw, subscription. groups addhome up to a and onlinePublished bi-monthly, Our Town is dire area and has established a large audience of loyal readers.

The St. Charles County edition features countywide coverage addresses in its service area, plus onlin readership size about Community News circulates across a broad geographic region including the cities of: St. Charles, St. Peters, Cottleville, unique business-to-business magazine three times greater with newstands, home throw and online subscription.

Weldon Spring, O’Fallon, Dardenne Prairie, Lakenews St. Louis, commerce plus articles on the eco than the print run. and Wentzville, plus Troy. human resources, and marketing.

St. Charles

By Shelly A.

Schneider

o busy, e it gets to to dies, befor is the time corner. La for you. Now ovement and take a day impr se for selffun in the set a cour and to have self-awareness will find the answers process! Women health, family, career, s on at the 2007 to question and more image, fashion, – Fun, Fit, and FabuFair at St. Women’s , Nov. 17, for Saturday lous – set nity College.

Commu Charles hip in partners the college St. Joseph sented by y and SSM take with JCPenne ospital West, will StuHealth Center-Ha.m.-3 p.m. in the 8:30 Campus, 4601 place from on the SCC lle. dent Center in Cottlevi Mall Drive out the area Mid Rivers through reWomen from day of education, for a fun, includwill gather food, and laxation, prizes, inars, a fashion show 50 ing nine mini-sem and more than speaker, s and serand keynote g product vendors displayin vices. tal a continen seminars and and exhibits a fashion tickets include rse cial $20 VIP speaker, and full-cou in show, keynote Grappa Grill and catered by t, exhibits, luncheon the breakfas consecutive addition to For the fourththe lunchtime seminars. y will host ages year, JCPenne with styles for all show, fashion

‘Light Up Your invites Wom Life’ Contest en to Hono r Friendship

s

E

IN THIS ISSU

a grand ic entry into l beauty basas well as automat – a persona prize drawing JCPenney. of ket courtesy iants nine mini-sem fair gives participfrom including inforcare, nars to choose tness, breast exercise, fi plastic surmation on ence, and and urinary incontin l improvement persona and bra fitting gery. Other topics include for holiday awareness “dos” “ups” and and the “spirit wardrobe, made easy, hair, makeup

IN THIS ISSUE

St. Louis

P 636.379.1775 F 636.379.1632

14, 2007 November 46 Vol. 86 No.

It’s About

........ . . 6 16 Peters...............

St.

2139 Bryan........................

17

....

Cheese . .

7 ........ ......

Better You 9 ........ ......

10

Movie Review Valley Commercia l Dr. • O’Fallon, ..........22, 23 MO 63366 fieds .............

Classi cial Dr. topics to the spirit.

Valley Commer sessions (threetime frame) 2139 Bryan Seminar MO 63366 during each O’Fallon, a.m., and 1:30 choose from 636-379-1632 s a.m., 10:40 -1775 • FX: begin at 9:30 P: 636-379 centurytel.net 1:15 p.m.

E-Mail: cnews@ and runs until - 2007 at 11:45 a.m. 8:30 a.m. page 17 Wonderland at Christmas in AINMENT the lunDoors open Film Group’s See ENTERT feature duringigh-energy Electra in Yari and Carmen A special ill b e a h Chris Kattan w r a n. e y s i cheon th Dan Coughli by author 3 presentation ’S FAIR page See WOMEN

Movie . . . ........ ......

Sports . . .

12 ........ . . . . . . 14 Real Estate/A utomotive . . . . 15

P: 636.379.17 75 F: 636.379.16 32 E: ofcnews@ centurytel.net

Coupon Crazy ....

What’s Happeni . . . . . . . . . . . 16 ng . . . . . . . . . 18 Classifieds ........ .......

22

www.mycnews.

com

1 ne 201 May/Ju

Our FREE publications are available in over 500 convenient locations, including every Dierbergs, Schnucks and Shop ’N Save.

because the majority of voluntary readers are occasional readers.

Over time, these unique 58206_CirMap.indd 2 groups add up to a readership size about three times greater than the print run.

CROSSROADS MAGAZINE MAGAZINE Or, signOUR upTOWN for a FREE ONLINE SUBSCRIPTION at Published bi-monthly, Our Town is direct mailed to all business This monthly lifestyle magazine covers the fast-growing Wentzville and Lake St. Louis areas. It is direct mailed with addresses in its service area, plus online subscribers. It is a www.mycnews.com additional copies available in newsstands, unique business-to-business magazine featuring chamber of commerce news plus articles on the economy, technology, human resources, and marketing.

plus online subscribers.

7/5/11 3:30 PM

16

December 2, 2015 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

By Joe Morice

Over the Fence

It boggles the mind If you draw to bring it about as many believe...or A small child who totters across a meadow and a line straight as some of my more skeptical acquaindiscovers a butterfly landing on a wildflower looks across a graph tances believe, aliens from a different the length of a city world made it all happen. Who knows? on in round-eyed curiosity. block and then mark Perhaps Captain Kirk and Mr. Spock one inch of it at the end, cruised by in the Starship Enterprise it’s a good comparison of how long our and seeded our planet. civilization has been on Earth; one inch Yet this is the fun of it! It’s not knowworth. Staggering, right? Try this: If we ing and searching for the truth with fit that one inch of time into the entire open minds. When I see a person or universe, it might compare to an atoma group of people proclaiming their ic particle among all the uncountable concept of life is the end all, be all of numbers in our solar system. It boggles existence, I feel sorry for them. They’ve the mind. closed their minds to the great wonders Given all this mind-boggling, I can’t of the world and often live in fear and understand what makes us underestiintolerance of those who haven’t. By mate the kazillion-to-one odds against asking no questions and refusing their the delicate, unimaginable process that own curiosity, they’re missing all the took place to create our fragile planet fun. and its consequent civilization.

A small child who totters across a It’s said that five million, million (whatever that is) minutes. meadow and discovers a butterfly landing on a wildHuman beings share many of the instincts of ani- flower looks on in round-eyed curiosity. Our exisatoms can fit on the head of a pin. The number that mals, such as the herd instinct, survival instinct and tence relies on this open-minded curiosity and the makes up the human body would most likely consist of too many zeros to fit on this page. Yet all those ka-zil- so on. But we’ve been gifted with the ability to reason ability to learn…and we’ve only just begun. lions of atoms came together to become a functional, that would overcome the base instincts of animals “Satisfaction of one’s curiosity is one of the greatest that would kill one another to control their groups, incredibly complicated machine called a human being. sources of happiness in life.” -Linus Pauling In fact, billions of them were created. They can walk, or kill other groups of similar species to steal their Joe Morice is Community News’s blue-collar philosotalk, think and do just about anything including build- food or territories. Of course, admittedly, some of our pher. He was born and raised in Missouri and spent most ing extremely complicated machines to help them sur- species doesn’t always overcome those base instincts of his childhood on a farm and adulthood operating heavy as proven by terrorists and dictators most foul. vive and advance society...or destroy it. equipment. He has no formal training as a writer, unless a There is another incredibly large number to con- lifetime of writing about any and everything counts.

Oddly, in the last 100 years or so, our society has advanced far more than the previous hundreds of sider; many scientists who study such things agree The opinions expressed in this column are Joe Morice’s alone centuries since man huddled in caves in fear of the the odds against all of the aforementioned happening and do not reflect the opinion of the owners or staff of Community night. Even more extraordinary, human beings are become greater as they advance their understand- News. pound for pound, the weakest of all Earth’s creatures ing of the process. It might compare to the odds yet they are perhaps the most successful because they against finding a needle in a haystack the size of JuEditor’s note: Joe Morice is currently recovering from have the ability to reason. I said ‘perhaps’ because piter. The events that brought all this about are so illness and has taken some time off. Until his return we will run some of Joe’s favorite columns.

I once watched a Jerry Springer TV show for a few complex, perhaps there really was a supreme being

www.StCharlesChristmas.com