CN: Dec. 7. 2011 by Community News

December 7, 2011 Vol. 90 No. 49

The APA offers tips to help Americans prevent holiday stress before it begins.

Making the Most of the Holiday Season Information from the American Psychological Association

IN this Issue

Given our country's economic woes, the holidays have the potential to create additional challenges this year. Few people seem to have extra resources to spend on gifts, parties and extravagances. Families are cutting back, employees are worrying about job security, and seniors are concerned about their retirement. In an online poll conducted this summer on stress, the American Psychological Association (APA) found that nearly threequarters of Americans say they experience stress at levels that exceed what they define as healthy. “It is normal to feel overwhelmed during the holiday season. The pressure to have the perfect holiday can be extraordinary,” says Dr. Katherine Nordal, executive director for professional practice at APA. “It is important to put things in perspective and realize that the materialism of the holidays isn’t the real spirit of the season. The holidays are about family and togetherness, not tinsel and presents.” Stress from the ailing economy and the increasing costs of gas, housing and healthcare can leave you especially vulnerable to increased anxiety during the holidays. However, it is important to view the current economic situation as an opportunity to enhance your psychological well-being. Remember, there are conscious steps you can take to prevent holiday stress and ensure a worry-free season. • Take time for yourself – There may be pressure to be everything to everyone. Remember that you’re only one person and can only accomplish certain things. Sometimes self-care is the best thing you can do – others will benefit when you’re stress- free. Go for a long walk, get a massage or take time out to listen to your favorite music or read a new book. All of us need some time to recharge our batteries – by slowing down you will actually have more energy to accomplish your goals. Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5 School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Christmas Traditions . . . . . . . . . . 7-9

• Volunteer – Many charitable organizations are also suffering due to the economic downturn. Find a local charity, such as a soup kitchen or a shelter where you and your family can volunteer. Also, participating in a giving tree or an adopta-family program, and helping those who are living in true poverty may help you put your own economic struggles in perspective. • Have realistic expectations – No Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanza, or other holiday celebration is perfect; view inevitable missteps as opportunities to demonstrate flexibility and resilience. A lopsided tree or a burned brisket won’t ruin your holiday; rather, it will create a family memory. If your children’s wish list is outside your budget, talk to them about the family’s finances this year and remind them that the holidays aren’t about expensive gifts. • Remember what’s important – The barrage of holiday advertising can make you forget what the holiday season is really about. When your holiday expense list is running longer than your monthly budget, scale back and remind yourself that what makes a great celebration is family, Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Joe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Shelly Schnieder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

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

not store-bought presents, elaborate decorations or gourmet food. • Seek support – Talk about your anxiety with your friends and family. Getting things out in the open can help you navi-

gate your feelings and work toward a solution for your stress. If you continue to feel overwhelmed, consider seeing a professional such as a psychologist to help you manage your holiday stress.

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“Arthur Christmas” - Photo courtesy of Columbia Pictures

Recipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Learn & Play . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Movie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

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What’s Happening . . . . . . . . . 13-14 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-15

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Community News

December 7, 2011

Reliance Bank and SLEHCRA Announce Community Reinvestment Partnership Reliance Bank and the St. Louis Equal Housing and Community Reinvestment Alliance (SLEHCRA) recently announced a Community Investment Partnership to provide financial education and new financial services and products to low-income and moderateincome individuals, families and businesses. With the Community Reinvestment Partnership, Reliance Bank and SLEHCRA member organizations are working together to broaden the delivery of mainstream financial services and help more people gain access to banking products. Through the Partnership, Reliance will broaden its offerings of financial products for low- and moderateincome individuals and families and for minorityowned businesses. These new products will include a small business lending program, expanded mortgage products and services and new checking and savings

account offerings. The initiative also includes an outreach effort to provide targeted financial literacy for businesses and individuals, with community-based classes that will provide advice on budgeting, savings, home-buying and financial planning. To achieve these goals, Reliance will expand its marketing to include African-American and Hispanic media outlets. “Reliance is committed to delivering sound financial products that will support business and community growth,” said Reliance President and CEO Allan D. Ivie, IV. “This Partnership honors the goals of the Community Reinvestment Act and fair lending laws and provides a road map to increasing financial opportunities for families and business owners.” Will Jordan of the Metropolitan St. Louis Equal Housing Opportunity Council, a SLEHCRA member organization, said the part-

nership will help meet a critical need. “Our coalition worked closely with Reliance Bank to create this plan for better banking services and resources for our community,” Jordan said. “Too many people in our community do not have access to quality and affordable financial services. Institutions need to be doing a better job at meeting these needs. We are happy that Reliance Bank is making a difference, and we look forward to working with them to meet the goals of this partnership.” The St. Louis Equal Housing and Community Reinvestment Alliance (SLEHCRA) is a coalition of non-profit and community organizations that works to increase investment in low-income and minority communities. SLEHCRA regularly works with banks to ensure they are meeting obligations under the Community Reinvestment Act and fair housing laws. Learn more at our website: www.slehcra.org.

Free Smoking Cessation Classes

SSM DePaul Health Center, partnering with St. Louis County’s tobacco-free initiative called “Let’s Face It,” is offering free smoking cessation classes to patients, employees and the community. The course will assist participants in determining their readiness to quit smoking and provide the tools necessary to increase their success rate in becoming smoke free. “In 2004, SSM Health Care facilities led the way by becoming the first health provider system in the area to go smoke free inside and out,” said Valerie Stricker, Executive Director of the SSM DePaul Health Center Foundation. “With various smoke free initiatives now on the radar it’s vital to offer services to our community to aid individuals with their decision to become smoke free.” Space is limited for these on-going classes. The next session of classes begin January 3 at SSM DePaul Health Center. For more information or to register please contact Paul Geerling, director of Outpatient Behavioral Health Serwww.jenningshistory.org vices, at 314.344.7153. www.furcentre.com

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

“I can’ t believe I’m here!” Call today to compare your current expenses to what it would cost to live at Hidden Lake. 314.363.6216 Grace Poland, loving life at Hidden Lake.

11728 Hidden Lake Dr. n St. Louis, MO 63138 www.HiddenLakeLiving.org HiddenLakeLiving.org Independent Living

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December 7, 2011

tradition will be honored with music by Ralph Vaughan Williams. Ike Eichenberger is the vocalist, and Greg Koets will narrate "The Night before Christmas." The band will create a wintry scene with "Sleigh Ride" and a thrilling new composition entitled "Toboggan Ride." Special guests again this year will be musicians from Germany's Musikkapelle Roethenbach. More information can be found at www.northwindsband.org. Northwinds is a program of Ferguson-Florissant's Community Education program.

Support Dogs, Inc. recently received the following grants: • Assistance Dog program grants from Employees Community Fund of Boeing St. Louis ($3,500) and Simon Foundation ($5,000). • Paws for Reading program grants from Cardinals Care ($1,500); Edward Chase Garvey Memorial Foundation ($4,500); The Saigh Foundation ($5,000), and; Target Corporation ($2,000). • TOUCH program grant from Fischer-Bauer-Knirps ($1,500). • Youth Service Dog program grant from Variety the Children’s Charity of St. Louis ($5,000). Support Dogs, Inc. is a national non-for-profit organization that offers dignity, hope and independence by providing highly skilled service dogs to individuals with disabilities and uniquely trained dogs to serve the community. Founded in 1981, the organization provides many services including an Assistance Dog program which matches people with various disabilities with a canine partner, an animal-assisted therapy dog program called TOUCH (Therapy of Unique Canine Helpers), and a Paws for Reading program that places dogs in school classrooms. Support Dogs is a proud member of the United Way of Greater St. Louis. For more information, call 314.997.2325 or visit www.supportdogs.org.

Northwest Chamber Hires New President/CEO The Northwest Chamber of Commerce has announced the hiring of Robert Swank of Florissant as its new CEO and President, according to the Chairman of the Board Kevin Hall. Most recently, Swank was the Executive Director of the St. Clair Area Chamber of Commerce in St Clair, Mo. Prior to that, he had an extensive background as an Economic Development Director for several Missouri cities and the State of Missouri. He has also served as the Chamber Director in Centralia, Mo. Swank said he is “thrilled to be asked to serve in this position”. He feels that there are endless opportunities for the Northwest Chamber and the 20 cities it serves. “It is critical to build relationships with cities and foster partnerships with area businesses and organizations to continue the rich traditions

Support Dogs, Inc. Receives More Than $25,000 in Grants

Holiday Concert Florissant's Northwinds Concert Band, under the direction of Larry Marsh, will present its annual Holiday Concert featuring seasonal favorites at 3 p.m. on Sunday, December 11 at the Florissant Civic Center Theatre, Parker Road and Waterford Drive. Tickets are $8 for adults and $6 for older adults and students. Tickets may be reserved by calling the box office at 314.921.5678 or online at www.northwindsband. org. Purchase tickets for the entire family for just $12 if you order by phone. Northwinds has presented these annual holiday concerts for more than 25 years. Along with arrangements of traditional carols, the 60-piece Northwinds ensemble will explore a wide variety of styles, from the jazzy "Charlie Brown Christmas," to the Latin beats of "We Wish You a Mambo Christmas;" from the pulsing sounds of "A Fresh Aire Christmas," to the stirring "Three Moods of Hanukkah." The British brass band

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found in the Northwest Chamber’s service area,” Swank said. “Building on what is already here and bringing some new ideas and fresh perspectives to the chamber’s programs will be both challenging and rewarding. There are so many positive things going on in the area.” Hall added, “The selection committee and Chamber Board of Directors welcome Mr. Swank to the position with full confidence that he is very well qualified to lead the chamber into the future.” The Northwest Chamber of Commerce is a business organization that works to enhance the quality of life and support and build businesses within its 20 communities. Mr. Swank began his duties on November 28, 2011.

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Community News

December 7, 2011

Tips That Let You Turn Down The Thermostat (StatePoint) With today’s high fuel prices, heating your home in the cooler months can be expensive. By turning your thermostat back 10 to 15 degrees for eight hours, you can save up to 15 percent a year on your heating bill, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. “There are basic steps homeowners can take to maintain a comfortable home while living with a lower thermostat setting,” says Bob Vila, home renovation and repair expert. To help you get started, Vila offers some useful advice: Seal Your Drafts One way to make sure you’re not throwing money out the window is to ensure heat’s not escaping through it as well. From mail slots to doorways, to cracks and loose win-

dow fittings, air leaks can be found throughout the entire home, sending heated air outside. Without compromising the ventilation system or air quality, you can seal most of these leaks by applying weather-stripping. Weather-stripping comes in many forms, including adhesive-backed foam strips for door and window frames, sealants for cracks and shrink-film for windows. Many come with easy application features. Warm air can even leave a room through electrical outlets. Seal these holes tight with fire retardant plastic foam outlet covers. Gather Round “Not all rooms should be treated equally when it comes to heating,” says Vila. By targeting only frequently used rooms of the home, you can turn down the thermostat and save energy. But don’t forget to close the doors of rooms not in use. Portable heaters are ideal for zone heating because there is no installation involved, so you can create cozy spaces quickly. But traditional units can get very hot, posing a risk to pets, children, and flammable materials like

curtains and carpet. “Opt for a product with no exposed heating elements,” advises Vila. “You get the warmth you want without any risks.” For example, EdenPURE heaters don’t get hot to the touch, don’t have exposed heating elements that can cause a fire, and won’t reduce humidity or oxygen in a home. For more information, visit www.edenpure.com. Five Minute Fixes There are also many quick fixes that will help you heat efficiently. Between annual furnace check-ups, clean or replace air filters once a month. Dirt and build-up prevent systems from operating at maximum efficiency. Ensure heat registers are dust-free and clear of obstructions like drapes and furniture. Change the direction of your ceiling fan to a clockwise rotation. This forces cooler air upward, sending the warm air down into your living space. Don’t forget that thermostats need upkeep as well. Calibrate your thermostat for proper temperature readings and dust the inside and cover with a soft brush. With a little effort, you don’t need to sacrifice your family’s comfort to save a dime.

“Snuggies for Seniors” Collection on Dec. 10 Hope Hospice of St. Louis will collect items to keep senior citizens warm this winter on Saturday, December 10. The 2nd Annual “Snuggies for Seniors” Collection Drive will take place at all St. Louis area Syberg’s locations. Hope Hospice staff and volunteers will collect gloves, hats, socks, slippers, blankets, scarves and, yes, Snuggies, for residents of St. Louis area senior living facilities. Syberg’s will offer a special cocktail for the evening with a portion of the drink proceeds going to the collection drive. The Hope Hospice team will hand out party beads

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while they last and will accept cash donations. The “Snuggies for Seniors” Collection Drive will from 7 to 11 p.m. on December 10. Items may be placed in collection boxes at Syberg’s locations during the week prior to the event. Syberg’s locations are: • Dorsett at I-270 in Maryland Heights • Market Street in the Hampton Inn, Downtown • Gravois Road in Affton • Chesterfield Airport Road in Chesterfield Valley • Helen Fitzgerald’s on Lindbergh in Sunset Hills Hope Hospice is based in St. Louis County and serves patients in St. Louis City and County and St. Charles, Jefferson and Franklin Counties.

Children’s Holiday Event The annual Children‘s Holiday event hosted by the city of Black Jack and Jamestown Mall will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, December 10 in center court at Jamestown Mall. There will visits and free pictures with Santa, crafts and cookies for the children, and several bicycles to be given away at the event. The bicycles were donated personally by Mayor Norm McCourt, the Black Jack City Council, and subdivisions within the city of Black Jack. Adults must be present with children to be entered and win bicycles. “The city is proud to partner with Jamestown Mall for our events, as we outgrew the capacity to hold the events at City Hall,” Mayor McCourt said. “All of our city events grew to become so popular that we had overflow crowds and not everyone was able to attend due to fire code crowding regulations. Teaming up with Jamestown Mall for our events has allowed us to accommodate everyone that attends.” For more information on the event, please call Black Jack City Hall at 314.355.0400.

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December 7, 2011

Community News

Hawthorne Players Present Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” Hawthorne Players will again present a charming, music-filled production of Charles Dickens’ classic story “A Christmas Carol” on December 16, 17 and 18 in the Florissant Civic Center Theatre. A cast of 40 performers will sing, dance and portray the memorable characters who surround that stingiest of curmudgeons, Ebenezer Scrooge. Scrooge, portrayed by veteran actor Paul James, humbugs the holiday until the spirit of his former partner Marley, along with the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future, open his heart and mind to the reality that mankind is his business. Hawthorne’s version of this great story has become a cherished tradition since the ven-

erable theatre troupe first presented the show in 2009. Nancy Crouse adapted the Dickens’ novella and designed and directs the production which features a large cast of talented actors, singers, musicians and dancers. The musical direction is in the sure hands of Mary and Ike Eichenberger, and Julie Strathman-McCameron adds funfilled dances. The production features beautiful costumes, lovingly created by Florissant’s masterful costume designer and seamstress Jean Heckmann. The key set element is a clock face, complete with magically moving hands going both forwards and backwards.

A Christmas Carol reunites many Hawthorne stars, including John Roberson and Kathryn Weber as the Cratchits, Kay Love as the Ghost of Christmas Past, Pam Geppert as the Ghost of Christmas Present, Robert Doyle as Marley and the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come. Ike Eichenberger and Dottie Bertolino are the delightful Fezziwigs. Performances are at 8 p.m. on Friday, December 16; at 2 and 7 p.m. on Saturday, December 17; and at 2 p.m. on Sunday, December 18. Admission is $14 for adults, $12 for seniors and student,; and $5 for children 12 and under. Tickets may be reserved by calling the theatre box office at 314.921.5678. Proceeds from this show benefit the Duckie DeMere Scholarship fund which has presented over $45,000 to North County high school seniors active in the performing arts. For information visit www.hawthorneplayers.com.

Smooth Sailing with Proper Tire Safety (NewsUSA) - Don't wait until there's nothing left between you and the rain-slick pavement to check your tires. The likelihood of accidents skyrockets when combining wet, seasonal weather and poor tire maintenance. Proper tire and pressure maintenance can prevent all kinds of road accidents, but drivers must be aware of the warning signs and ongoing maintenance needs to ensure driving safety. For example, an underinflated tire might not look flat to the eye. A tire can lose up to 50 percent of its air before it begins to show visually. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), tire pressure literally changes the way the rubber meets the road, affecting traction, handling, steering, stability and braking. Similarly, NHTSA estimates that nearly 250,000 accidents occur in the U.S. per year due to low tire pressure. Statistics like these remind drivers how quickly collisions occur under preventable circumstances. Schrader, a global manufacturer of sensing and valve solutions that protect and perform, recommends the following advice to keep your tires road-ready in all conditions: • Check your tire pressure regularly, especially before any long trips. Inflation pressure changes depending on the temperature. Tire pressure drops about 1 psi for every 10 degrees F drop in ambient temperature. Additionally, tires can lose as much as 1.5 psi per month as air escapes the tire and rim naturally. It's best

to check tire pressure when the car is off and tires are coolest. • Heed the TPMS warning symbol. All passenger vehicles and light trucks sold in the U.S. from 2008 onward have a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) system installed. If the TPMS warning symbol lights up on your dashboard, one or more of your tires is 25 percent or more underinflated –a significant loss in pressure. Take caution, and do not ignore the TPMS warning symbol. • Find a safe place to pull out of traffic to stop and check your tires. If you are not having a blowout, use a tire gauge to check the pressure of each tire against your vehicle manufacturer's recommended pressure level. Inflate tires to correct pressure at the nearest service station or repair facility. The recommended pressure level can be found on the tire placard, a label located just inside the driver's side door.

• Don't forget the spare. Before long drives, always check your spare for any injuries or punctures. For more tips on how TPMS ensures driver safety, please visit www.TPMSMadeSimple.com.

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Community News

December 7, 2011

HSD Seniors Appointed to Inaugural Youth Cabinet Led by U.S. Rep. Clay Four seniors from the Hazelwood School District are among the first students in the area appointed to the Missouri 1st District Congressional Youth Cabinet (CYC), led by U.S. Rep. Wm. Lacy Clay. Jocelyn Redding and Jonathan Segers of Hazelwood Central High School and Devan Morton and Brittney Watkins of Hazelwood West High School are among 48 “outstanding high school students from across the City of St. Louis and St. Louis County” chosen to “advise Congressman Clay and his staff on key national and local issues that Hazelwood West High School seniors Devan Morton and Brittney Watkins are members of impact young people.” the Missouri 1st District Congressional Youth Cabinet, led by U.S. Rep. Wm. Lacy Clay. During the cabinet’s first meeting, Clay remarked, “This is not just a nice honor or a passive appointment. This is an exercise in real youth civic engagement. The new CYC will give me a direct link to the things that really matter to you and have an impact on your life. I need your voices, your energy, and your personal investment in this endeavor, to help me do my job better. You are going to discuss the most important issues facing our nation and our community.” The students learned about the Hazelwood Central High School seniors Jonathan Segers and Jocelyn Redding are members program from their teachers. of the Missouri 1st District Congressional Youth Cabinet, led by U.S. Rep. Wm. Lacy Clay.

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Filing Opens Dec. 13 for STLCC Board of Trustees Seats Filing for the Subdistrict 1 and 3 seats on the St. Louis Community College Board of Trustees opens 8 a.m. Tuesday, December 13. The seats currently are held by Margo G. McNeil and Joann L. Ordinachev, respectively. McNeil has served on the college’s board as the Subdistrict 1 representative since 2006 while Ordinachev, who resigned in October for personal reasons, was re-elected to a third term in 2007. Filing for the two seats closes at 5 p.m. Tuesday, January 17. An election will take place April 3 to fill the seats. The winner of the Subdistrict 1 seat will serve a six-year term. The winner of the Subdistrict 3 seat will serve for the one-year balance of Ordinachev’s term, which expires in 2013. A six-member board representing the four subdistricts of the college service area governs St. Louis Community College. Subdistrict 1 includes the following school districts: Hazelwood, Ferguson/Florissant, Riverview Gardens, Jennings, Pattonville, Ritenour, University City, Normandy, Clayton and Ladue. Subdistrict 3 includes southern and southwest portions of St. Louis City and the school districts of Maplewood-Richmond Heights, Affton, Bayless, Brentwood, Kirkwood and Webster Groves. Individuals seeking the trustee seats must be at least 21 years of age and must be a resident voter of Subdistrict 1 or 3 for at least one year before the April 3 election. Each declaration of candidacy must be notarized before it is returned to the office of the associate for board relations at the Joseph P. Cosand Community College Center, 300 S. Broadway. Declarations of candidacy and a description of the subdistricts are available in the office of the associate for board relations at the Cosand Center. The office is open 8 a.m.- 5 p.m. Monday-Friday; however, it will be closed December 23-January 3 and on January 16. The placement of candidate’s names on the ballot shall be determined according to the order of filing by candidates, except that a lottery system will be used to place candidates' names on the ballot for those candidates who file prior to 5 p.m. December 13. All candidates will be notified about the lottery and all other requirements for filing for office at the time they receive filing forms. For more information, contact Rebecca Garrison, associate for board relations, at 314.539.5154.

December 7, 2011

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Community News

December 7, 2011

SAINT CHARLES Christmas Traditions

Welcome to St. Charles Christmas Traditions! Information from www.stcharleschristmas.com

Christmas sparkles each year in his-

All photos courtesy of Karen Godfrey

toric St. Charles, Missouri during our one-of-a-kind Christmas Traditions festival. While you’re making holiday plans, escape to an old-fashioned Christmas with storybook characters, Victorian carolers, and Santas from around the world. There’s no better place than Main Street during a Christmas festival for a holiday stroll with your loved ones. Underneath a canopy of twinkling lights,

stroll a while. Duck into a shop or two for a little holiday shopping. Then, take a break at one of the many restaurants, dessert cafes or coffee houses. For a complete schedule, please visit www.stcharleschristmas.com. And when Santa has to leave on Christmas Eve, join us for the Santa Send-Off at 1:30 p.m. We’ll bid Santa goodbye during this last parade of the season and wish him the best as he heads back to the North Pole.

Breakfast with Santa December 10 and 17 Come enjoy breakfast at the beautiful Mother-In-Law House Restaurant for an upclose-and-personal visit with Santa. Bring your holiday wish list. Plus, don’t forget the camera to capture all the holiday fun. Doors open at 9 a.m., and breakfast is served at 9:30 a.m. Parking is free on the street and nearby lots. Tickets are $15 and reservations are required. But hurry! Only a limited number of tickets are available. To order tickets, contact the Greater Saint Charles Convention & Visitors Bureau at 636.255.6155 or via email at KGodfrey@historicstcharles. com.

The Complete Works of Christmas! December 11 and 18, 2011 Someone has killed the Grinch and now Santa’s on Trial! Who can imagine the jolly old elf with a belly that shakes like a bowl full of jelly could ever be a murderer? Come help us discover the real killer. Tickets are $62.50 and reservations are required. But hurry! Only a limited number of tickets are available. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and dinner is served at 6 p.m. Parking is free on the street and nearby lots.

December 7, 2011

Community News

SAINT CHARLES Christmas Traditions

To order tickets, contact the Greater Saint Charles Convention & Visitors Bureau at 636.255.6155 or via email at KGodfrey@historicstcharles.com.

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

Tourism Center at the corner of Main Street and First Capitol Drive, our Victorian Santa will bring a touch of class to this treasured memento, all at a greater value than mall photos. Photos are $12 for the first and $8 for the second. They are 5 x 7 and come in a lovely gold foil-trimmed frame. You may also purchase more photos with Santa in varying sizes online or by visiting The Tintypery at 510 S. Main Street. Photos with Santa will be open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and from noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays.

Carriage Rides Take a break from the hustle and bustle of shopping and enjoy a relaxing, complimentary carriage ride down Main Street! Our complimentary carriage shuttle will be available (weather permitting) during Christmas Traditions on Wednesday and Friday Nights, as well as Saturdays and

Sundays. The carriage rides are courtesy of the SBD and the Greater Saint Charles Convention & Visitors Bureau. To reserve a carriage for a special event or evening during the holiday season, please call 636.398.4123.

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

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

Photos with Santa Capture memories of your family’s visit to Saint Charles in a special photo with Santa. Set against a classic holiday backdrop in lower level of the

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Community News

December 7, 2011

Sports You See... With Gary B. GAC/Suburban South/West Basketball Challenge December 15, 16, & 17 The St. Charles County Family Arena is the place to be for outstanding high school basketball. Cheerleaders, dance teams, booster clubs, pep bands, coaches, parents, and basketball fans of all ages will participate in this exciting event as they cheer their favorite teams to victory. Here’s the line-up: Thursday, December 15, 2011 4:00 p.m. Rockwood Summit vs. Fort Zumwalt East 5:30 p.m. Parkway West vs. Francis Howell North 7:00 p.m. Parkway Central vs. Christian 8:30 p.m. Parkway North vs. Francis Howell Friday, December 16, 2011 4:00 p.m. Mehlville vs. St. Charles 5:30 p.m. Lindbergh vs. Fort Zumwalt West 7:00 p.m. Marquette vs. Duchesne 8:30 p.m. Webster Groves vs. Troy Saturday, December 17, 2011 9:00 a.m. Fox vs. Barat Academy 10:30 a.m Seckman vs. Warrenton 12:00 p.m. Northwest vs. Timberland 1:30 p.m. University City vs. Holt 3:00 p.m. Oakville vs. St. Dominic 4:30 p.m. Kirkwood vs. Francis Howell Central 6:00 p.m. Eureka vs. Fort Zumwalt South 7:30 p.m. Parkway South vs. St. Charles West 9:00 p.m. Lafayette vs. Washington

~~~Jam packed three days The ‘Zamboni Machine’ of the Cardinals Sighted Reitzy at Sombrero’s Last Thursday near the end of my radio show Sports Radio STL on KFNS, the former third baseman Ken Reitz of the St. Louis Cardinals was an unannounced guest. He played for the team with the ‘Birds on the Bat’ from 1972 to 1982 with stops in San Francisco, Chicago and Pittsburgh scattered in between those years. His play at third base earned him the best fielding percentage in the National League six times in his career. Reitz also played in an All-Star game and earned a Gold Glove in his career. ~~~Still looking like he could handle the HOT corner Rams Shut Out Rams 0-San Francisco 49ers 26 It was a long trip back from the west coast Sunday night for the St. Louis team after a very disappointing offensive appearance. Luckily, the defensive side of the ball played with much better success. There were a few highlights during the game that the team was proud to acknowledge: - DE Chris Long notched two sacks in the first half

Sports of play, to give him 12.0 for the season, 29.5 career. Coming into today’s game, Long was tied for fifth most sacks in the NFL and the NFC. - Long has now recorded a sack in six consecutive games, the streak started Week 8 vs. New Orleans and is a new career long. - LB James Laurinaitis sacked Smith in the second quarter for an 8-yard loss, marks his second sack of the season, seventh (7) career. - According to press box statistics, Laurinaitis split the team lead in tackles with Craig Dahl, each credited with 12 (10 solo). Dahl was also brought in one forced fumble. - RB Steven Jackson rushed 10 times for 19 yards, and caught one pass for 11 yards to bring his career all-purpose yards to 11,691, just 16 yards shy of tying Henry Ellard for third in team history. - QB A.J. Feeley made his third start of the season, completing 12-of-22 attempts for 156 yards. - WR Brandon Gibson led the team in receptions and receiving yards with four for 42 yards, a 10.5-yard average. - P Donnie Jones punted eight times for 317 yards, a 39.6-yard average, 37.3-yard net. Tallied a long of 49 yards and placed one inside the 20. NEXT RAMS HOME GAMES: Dec. 18: Noon - against the Cincinnati Bengals Jan. 1: Noon - against the San Francisco 49ers (end of regular season) Check the latest news at www.stlouisrams.com ~~~Good Defense

Editorial

“Over the Fence”

The Lesser of Two Evils A friend asked who I’m voting for president in ‘012. I told him I was writing in Bugs Bunny. He smiled and said, “No really, tell me the truth.” I said, “I am telling the truth. I’ve been voting for the lesser of two evils since Johnson and Nixon ran and I’m not doing it anymore.” He said accusingly, “You were too young to vote for one of them.” “Ummm…” He rolled his eyes and decided to play along. He asked, “Why Bugs Bunny?“ “He always wins.” “Oh,“ he said. “So who do you like for vice president?” “Daffy Duck,” I replied. “Most vice presidents and Daffy seem to have a lot in common.”

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“Won’t work,” I said. “Sending Hillary Clinton and Condi Rice to negotiate with Muslim countries where women are considered second class citizens was dumb. Better to appoint Arnold Schwarzenegger or Sylvester Stallone.” “But they aren’t cartoon characters either,” he said. “They aren’t?” “Humph. Who would you pick for Bug’s press secretary?” I smiled and said, “Amos.” My friend knitted his brow and looked confused. He said, “Who is Amos?” I said, “The church mouse in the cartoon movie “Ben and Me.” He helped Ben Franklin write the Pennsylvania Gazette. He’d be great with the media.” He snorted. “Surely news editors won’t believe a cartoon mouse.” “What about TV news editors?” “Well, there may be one or two…aaagghh!” He shook his head as if to clear it. He finally said, “The most hated person in the Whitehouse is usually the president’s chief-of-staff. He’s the one that’s hangs around the oval office snarling at everybody. Who do you have in mind for this job?” I smiled my most knowing smile. “Now here’s where we can use the Tasmanian Devil. He’s just as mean and tough as all the past chiefs but he’ll have one advantage they didn’t have.” I waited for him to respond. He smirked and tapped his foot before he finally said, “Okay, I’ll bite. What advantage?” I grinned and said, “He’ll eat whoever gives him any lip.” He grimaced. “Okay wise guy, what happens if President Bugs gives him any lip?” I put my nose up and snootily replied, “That’s easy. He can use Daffy as a gobetween.” He growled, “Ya’ know, this whole thing is ridiculous.” I said, “So is the lesser of www.stcharles.rightathome.net two evils.”

“Oh…right,” he mused. “How about Secretary of Defense? Bugs gonna appoint the Tasmanian Devil?” I shook my head. “We already had Donald Rumsfeld. Maybe Yosemite Sam. His six-guns shoot hundreds of times without reloading, and that would thrill the Pentagon and the NRA, but he always misses Bugs and that might please the animal rights people.” “Elmer Fudd’s shotgun does the same thing,” he said. “Yeah, but he has this fetish about rabbit stew.” “Whatever. What about Secretary of Commerce?” He smirked. “Porky Pig maybe?” I said, “We already have too many pigs in commerce but maybe we can ask Warren Buffet. He seems less piggish, somehow.” He guffawed and said, “What, no cartoon characters?” I said, “Not much difference but hey, the other billionaires hate Warren because he jests about paying far less taxes, percentage wise, than his secretary. Maybe he’ll help Bugs make legislators see the error of their ways. Besides, he‘s extremely rich and you know how legislators love rich people… almost as much as becoming one of them.” “Might work. How about Secretary of State?” I said, “I’m not sure. Do you have any suggestions?” He thought about it and finally said, “Snow White?”

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Editorial

December 7, 2011

Community News

Just sit right back... Lately I’ve been praying for the desire to be more holy. And during the beautiful season of Advent, I try to put that desire into practice. I’m human, though, and being holy isn’t even a day-to-day thing…it’s a minute-by-minute thing. There are many, many days when I choose to be right, not holy. I grew up watching the shows that TV Land and “Nick at Nite” now call “classic.” Does it make me feel old? You bet. Do I care? Of course not. I can’t remember if I watched the originals or reruns of family favorites like “The Andy Griffith Show” and “Gilligan’s Island.” I just remember loving them dearly. So why transport you back in time to Mayberry and an island somewhere in the Pacific? Theme songs. All three kids were in the van when the theme song from “The Andy Griffith Show” flooded our ears. Music always puts a smile on my face, and in this case, I was grinning from ear to ear. Almost giddy, you might say. I don’t know why, but hearing the whistled tune brought a big, goofy smile to my face. My head was bopping from side to side I was rudely snatched from the 1960s and thrown headfirst into the year 2009 when my oldest son, Christopher, decided he knew more than I when it came to theme songs.

Recipe:

Colorful Cookie Icing: - 1 cup confectioners’ sugar - 3 to 4 teaspoons milk - 1/2 teaspoon McCormick Pure Vanilla Extract - 3 to 4 drops McCormick Assorted Food Colors & Egg Dye

one who still watches them on “Nick at Nite” or TV Land. “Gilligan’s Island goes like this,” I said. “Just sit right back and you’ll hear a tale, a tale of a fateful trip, that started from this tropic port, aboard this tiny ship.” I’ll spare you the rest of the song, but believe you me, I sang the entire song. The desire to be holy flew out the van window, and was promptly replaced by the desire to be right. It’s something I’m foolishly proud of. I couldn’t recite the preamble to our nation’s constitution if you offered to pay my children’s college tuition, nor could I remember more than the first line to the Gettysburg Address, but I can sing every syllable of Gilligan’s Island, by golly! Later that evening I knelt beside Christopher’s bed, apologized for the desire to rub in (grind in is more like it) the whole Gilligan vs. Andy Griffith theme song thing, and asked for his forgiveness. Hmm… maybe the whole desire to be holy thing didn’t fly out the van window that day after all.

Share the Spirit of the Season with Holiday Cookies

(Family Features) The holidays are a season of sharing - sharing memories, sharing recipes and sharing the holiday spirit by making and giving homemade cookies. This year, the baking pros at McCormick are collaborating with cookie-sharing expert Kim Ima, owner of New York City’s The Treats Truck and author of the new “The Treats Truck Baking Book,” to make sure flavorful cookies are at the top of everyone’s gift list.

Spiced Holiday Sugar Cookies Ingredients: - 2 1/3 cups flour - 1 teaspoon baking soda - 1 teaspoon McCormick Ground Cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon McCormick Ground Nutmeg - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar - 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened - 1 egg - 2 teaspoons McCormick Pure Vanilla Extract

“Hey!” Christopher said really loud. “That’s the song from Giggilan’s Island!” Fortunately, I was off the monstrously busy Hwy. K, and had turned into a subdivision. Why fortunately? Because the unforgivable mistake caused me to hit the brakes, nearly propelling all three seat-buckled kids into the very radio that was playing, remember? The theme from “The Andy Griffith Show.” “What?” I said. “You think that’s the theme song to WHAT?” “Giggilan’s Island,” he said, real matter-of-fact like. “First of all, the show is ‘Gilligan’s Island,’” I said. “Gill-i-gan’s Island.” Second of all, that is NOT the theme to Giggilan’s, I mean Gilligan’s, Island. It’s the theme to the Andy Griffith Show.” “No, mom, it from ‘Gilligan’s Island.’ I heard it before.” This is where I get myself in trouble. Do theme songs really matter in life? Of course not. Should I allow a silly argument like this to continue? Of course not. Did I morph from a typically wise and calm mother into an I’ll-get-the-last-word-if-it’s-the-last-thing-Ido maniac? Of course! I wanted to leave no doubt in my son’s mind as to what was what. After all, I’m the one who grew up with these programs, and I’m the

Prep Time: 20 minutes • Cook Time: 8 to 10 minutes per batch • Refrigerate: 2 hours • Makes 6 dozen or 24 (3 cookie) servings

2. Roll out dough on lightly floured surface to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into shapes with cookie cutters. Place on greased baking sheets. 3. Bake in preheated 375°F oven 8 to 10 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool on baking sheets 1 minute. Remove to wire racks; cool completely.

5. To ice cookies, hold cookie by its edge and dip top of cookie into icing. (Or spoon icing onto cookie using a teaspoon.) Place iced cookies on wire rack set over foil-covered baking sheet to dry. (The foil-covered baking sheet will catch drips.) To add

decorative details to cookies, spoon tinted icing into resealable plastic bag. Snip off tiny piece of corner. Squeeze icing through hole in plastic bag to decorate cookies. If desired, colored sugar may be sprinkled onto freshly iced cookies.

Test Kitchen Tip: Mix 1/4 cup flour and 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar to use for dusting surface.

4. For the icing, mix all ingredients except food colors. (Stir in additional milk as needed to thin icing or more confectioners’ sugar to thicken, if needed.) Place small amount of icing into small shallow bowls, using one bowl for each color desired. Stir drops of food coloring into icing until desired shade is reached.

Directions: 1. Mix flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt in medium bowl. Set aside. Beat granulated sugar and butter in large bowl with electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla; mix well. Gradually beat in flour mixture on low speed until well mixed. Refrigerate dough 2 hours or overnight until firm.

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SUDOKU:

Learn & Play

December 7, 2011

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.

Youngest Pick: “Stars”

Book Buzz ! Hello, Friends: Newsbee’s the name, reading’s my game. Each month, I select three books - preschool through eighth grade chosen to fit a particular theme. These are my Book Buzz Picks and I announce them in the newspaper. A honey of an idea, don’t you think? What better place to introduce kids to good books than on the pages of their local newspaper? Community News is proud to offer our readers “Book Buzz.” This column will feature great books for children in three categories: Youngest Pick: early childhood to the first or second grade, Middle Pick: elementary school children, and Oldest Pick: middle school children. Enjoy! See solution on page 14

Eyes and hearts will light up when reading “Stars,” a poetic picture book by Mary Lyn Ray, with illustrations by Marla Frazee, one of Newsbee’s special pals. The team has combined their talents to create a wondrous book of insurmountable beauty that’s a joy to read aloud. “A star is how you know it’s almost night. As soon as you see one, there’s another and another. And the dark that comes doesn’t feel so dark.” So begins a grateful nod to the sparkly friends that greet us each evening, dotting the night sky with diamonds. But stars aren’t only found by looking up to the heavens. Ray and Frazee remind us that stars abound all around – in the shapes children cut out from construction paper, and in our natural world, in delicate blossoms that lead to juicy strawberries, in five-pointed flowers that become happy pumpkins, and in dandelions and snowflakes. All the magic that a star provides is on display thanks to Frazee’s marvelous illustrations, and Ray’s rich writing. Readers of all ages will reach for “Stars” again and again.

Movie “Arthur Christmas” Aardman Animations, the studio that produces the awardwinning “Wallace and Gromit” short films, explores the inner workings of the North Pole in “Arthur Christmas.” This holiday adventure is a fast— paced, funny story that has real appeal for both children and adults. Arthur (voice of James McAvoy) is Santa’s son, a young man who loves Christmas more than anyone else in the world. A tad clumsy and overeager, Arthur works in the letters department at the North Pole, answering questions and inquiries from children all over

By Steve Bryan

(PG)

the world. Unlike Arthur, Steve (Hugh Laurie), his big brother, is the model of military efficiency. Over the years, he has streamlined the entire gift-delivering system so that Santa doesn’t actually deliver all the gifts himself. As his father approaches retirement age, Steve fully expects that he will become the new Santa. This year, however, a little girl named Gwen (Ramona Marquez) is overlooked on Santa’s annual holiday delivery schedule. Trying to sweep the error under the rug, Steve wants to send the gift later via messenger, but Arthur insists that each child must receive a present on Christmas morning. Unfortunately, he only has a few hours before the Sun comes up and Gwen loses faith in Santa. A well-executed comic adventure, “Arthur Christmas” has all the trademarks of an Aardman Animation film. The story moves along at a fast clip and is filled with some completely outrageous situations. James McAvoy brings just the right amount of earnestness to Arthur, the oftenoverlooked son of Santa Claus. Arthur

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has, however, more holiday spirit than his father and brother combined. He takes his work seriously, writing personal responses to children who have questions or doubts about whether or not Santa is real. Hugh Laurie from television’s “House” delivers a sharp, crisp performance as Steve, the favorite son. As the second-in command, Steve has the elves operating at top efficiency, but he has squeezed all the joy and happiness out of the process. Steve is so sure that he will become the new Santa that he has a custom-made, Versace suit ready and waiting in his closet. In many ways, Bill Nighy steals the show as Grandsanta, the previous Santa Claus who used to do the whole route with nothing more than a wooden sleigh and eight reindeer to pull him. Grandsanta volunteers to help Arthur make that one last but vital delivery of the night. Although holiday movies are quite common this time of the year, “Arthur Christmas” is a delight, highlighting the magic of the season that sometimes gets overlooked. “Arthur Christmas,” rated PG for some mild, rude humor, currently is playing in theaters.

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December 7, 2011

Church

their families. Info: 314.837.6767.

Mondays in Advent: Waiting with Mary Advent Prayer Series 7 to 8 p.m. at the Pallottine Renewal Center Chapel December 12, and 19. Info: Angela at 314.387.7100.

Jan. 7: Trinity Trivia Night 7 p.m. in the TCHS cafeteria. Doors open at 6 p.m. $120 for table of eight. Beer and soda provided. Must be 21. Proceeds benefit production of Godspell in February. Reservations: Diane Merz at 314.869.6371 or dianemerz@sbcglobal.net.

Every Thursday (through December 1. 6:30 to 8 p.m. Grief Share Support Group At Ferguson Church of the Nazarene, 1309 N. Elizabeth Ave. Ferguson, Mo. Info 314.522.3388 or leecedra@sbcglobal.net. Jan. 7 and every 1st Sat. of the month all year long: Basement/ Breakfast/Tailgate Sale At Northside Christian Church, 9635 Hwy. 367 (Lewis & Clark Blvd.), St. Louis, MO. Pancakes & sausage or 2 biscuits & gravy, juice & coffee. Extra sausage is 50 cents more. Church basement sale with lots of new items and tailgate sale to sell your own treasures. Times: Basement/Tailgate is 8 a.m. - Noon; Breakfast is 8-10:30 a.m. Breakfast is $4. A double parking spot for tailgaters is $10. Call 314.868.5722, to reserve your tailgate spot.

Sept. 22, 2012: Jennings High School Class of 1972 Reunion To be held in St. Charles, Mo. We need your current contact information. Please call 636.583.9778 or email jhs1972@gmail.com. Inviting All Florissant Senior Citizens To Join One Of The Bingo Clubs With The City Of Florissant!! Please contact the Florissant Senior Office for more information at 8397604. • Monday Club: Meets every Monday for Bingo from 11:30-2:30 on the lower level of the James J. Eagan Center. Bring a sandwich - coffee and tea are available. Interesting day

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

Community News

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

from novice to professional. Meetings include brief business mtg. followed by carving session. At Weldon Spring Site Remedial Action Project, 7295 Hwy. 94 South, St. Charles. Visitors always welcome! Every Weekend: Orchard Farm Radio Controlled Flying Club Public invited & welcome every weekend to watch our flying model airplanes. Bring the family. Directions to the field at www.orchardfarmrc.com or call 636.300.1480. Every Thursday Evenings: 7:30 p.m. St. Charles Municipal Band Frontier Park, .stc-muny-band.com Every 3rd Monday of the Month: 6:30 p.m. Neighborhood Watch Visit our wesite for location, http:// ca.groups.yahoo.com/group.neighborhoodwatch_FlorissantMO or call 314.830.6042.

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

Events Dec. 10 Fair-Trade Christmas Gifts 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. at Florissant Valley Christian Church, 1325 N. U.S. Highway 67 in Florissant. Shop for unique gifts by artisans in third world countries. All money goes to the artisans who made the products so they may be able to support

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Community News

December 7, 2011

CLASSIFIEDS Health and Meetings St. Chatherine Retirement Community Events 3350 St. Catherine St., Florissant. To RSVP to events call 314.838.3877 Dec. 7: Entertainment by “Those Three Guys” 6 p.m. St. Catherine Dining Room. Refreshments served.

Dec. 8, 15, 22 & 29Tai Chi for Seniors - FREE classes 10:30 a.m. Reduce stress, strengthen joints, develop balance and coordination.

Music 10:30 a.m. Entertainment by Buck & Ron at Happy Hour 11:30 a.m. Followed by Complimentary Lunch.

Dec. 8: “How To Stay Young” 9:30 a.m. Presented by Straughn Chiropractic. Complimentary Breakfast 9 a.m. Dec. 13: Christmas Cheer and

Dec. 15: Blood Pressure Clinic 10 a.m. Refreshments served Dec. 20: Entertainment by “Boeing Balladeers” 6 p.m. St. Catherine Dining Room. Refreshments served Every Monday* and Friday : FIT TO GO Exercise - FREE classes 1 p.m. Classes are led by a person-

al trainer with the use of weights and resistance bands that will be provided! Be prepared to GET FIT! No class on Monday, Dec. 26. A make-up class will be held on Wed., Dec.28. *No meeting in Dec: Project Hands Volunteers needed to knit, crochet, and quilt for various children’s organizations-the last Friday of every month* SSM DePaul Healthy Happenings Every Monday (6-7 p.m.) and

Tuesday (noon -1 p.m.) in October. Weight loss HMR Program Orientation. Register at 1.877.477.6954. First and Third Mondays: Sharing Losses through Bereavement 1 – 2:30 p.m. SSM Home Care & Hospice, 1187 Corporate Lake Drive. For families and friends who want to help understanding and coping with the death of a loved one. Register at 314.SSM. DOCS (776.3627). Nov. 16: General Weight Loss Surgery – Support Group 5:30 – 7 p.m. May Center at SSM DePaul Health Center. For patients and candidates. Info: ssmweightloss.com or 1.877.477.6954.

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Community News

December 7, 2011

Menagerie of Animals Rescued

Working in cooperation with the Missouri Department of Agriculture (MDA), the Humane Society of Missouri Animal Cruelty Task Force recently rescued 40 dogs and 52 other animals including doves, Conyer parrots, cockatiels, love birds, a Ringneck parrot, hamsters, cats, chinchillas, ferrets, rats, and rabbits from a property in Branson, Mo. in Taney County. The animals were living in very unsanitary conditions with the overwhelming smell of urine obvious to rescuers as they entered the house. Animals not free roaming were housed in substandard cages, crates and kennels throughout the house and outside of the ownerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s personal residence. Several of the dogs and birds appeared to be very thin and one dog has a long-standing, untreated injury to its paw. According to the owner, she was operating a personal animal rescue service. The owner agreed to voluntarily surrender the animals to the MDA, who transferred custody to the HSMO for vet treatment and sheltering. The animals arrived on Nov. 30 at the HSMOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Headquarters on Macklind Ave. in St. Louis, Mo. As they become healthy over the next several weeks, as many of them as possible will be made available for adoption. Interested adopters are asked to visit often the HSMO website www.hsmo.org to see all adoptable animals.