CN: December 22, 2021

December 22, 2021

Continuing the fight against COVID-19

Around Town

COMMUNITY VOICES

By Dr. Paula Knight. Pg. 2 Collaborative bike drive sees 350 bikes collected for local children. Pg. 3

Special Section HOLIDAY GREETINGS! Pgs. 4-5 Northwest News. Pg. 6 NORTHWEST HOLIDAY GREETINGS! Pg. 7

Christian Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit has worked through staffing shortages, high volumes, and high acuities in the continuing battle against COVID-19.

Submitted photos

Features

Christian Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit takes lessons learned from nearly two years of battling the virus to better treat patients and take care of themselves

By Wendy Todd According to the New York Times Coronavirus tracking data, Missouri has over 964,000 reported cases of COVID-19, with nearly 2,000 patients being admitted to hospitals daily. Across the country hospitals have been straining to battle the pandemic and treat COVID-19 patients for nearly two years.

With resources dwindling and morale deflating, it’s been an uphill climb. Many hospitals are bracing for a potential winter wave of cases, after already trudging through a challenging year. The experience at Christian Hospital in North St. Louis County has been no different.

Though currently, Christian Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU) can accommodate incoming COVID patients, there are concerns that this may be temporary as the See ‘COVID-19’ page 2

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Around Town

December 22, 2021 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

‘COVID-19’ from cover numbers of cases continue to grow. This concern is intensified by the presence of the newest variant, Omicron, and those who are unvaccinated.

“It has been a challenging time both professionally and personally for the ICU team,” says Johanna Crawford, a patient care manager.

“The nurses and physicians have been riding a fence doing what they were called to do, taking care of patients, and worrying about keeping their families safe.”

But throughout the difficulties and worries, those on staff have remained dedicated.

“The team has truly amazed me at their resilience and fortitude,” says Crawford.

“Having worked through staffing shortages, high volumes, and high acuities, they have pulled together to get the job done.

Nurses have had to dig deep and rise to the challenge, and they have done so through the joy and through the tears.”

The ICU team has not only ris-

en to the occasion but has also tapped into their unknown reserve of strength.

“I believe that the team has learned that they are stronger than they know,” Crawford recounts. “One thing I know for sure is that I have an exceptionally talented team. I work with some of the smartest and knowledgeable nurses. I know this because we have faced a pandemic and a virus that we did not have answers for and are still learning things.”

One thing that has been learned is the importance of applying the growing practice of self-care.

“These nurses stood up and did what was necessary to take care of these very sick patients. I also think they have learned that life is fragile and we have to take care of ourselves in order to take care of others,” she said.

In addition to taking care of themselves, Christian Hospital offers resources to help staff manage the stress of dealing with the pandemic.

“We have our EAP (Employee Assistance Program), which offers counseling and work/ life services,” Crawford says, “We also have resiliency programs that are offered through our system training center for excellence.”

It seems as if the ICU team will have to continue being resilient as they predict COVID-19 isn’t going away any time soon.

I think the consensus is that COVID is here to stay,” says Crawford. “We are gathering Submitted photo tools to fight it and hopefully, one day, be able Christian Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit has worked through staffing shortages, high volumes, and to prevent it.” high acuities in the continuing battle against COVID-19.

COMMUNITY VOICES:

By Dr. Paula Knight

The powerful promise of an equitable early childhood education Many new or prospective parents start searching their communities for day care centers well before their children are born. Everything they do in preparation is to ensure that their child has the best educational jump-start they can provide, thus ensuring kindergarten readiness. However, the singular most important entity that parents can provide for their children comes a little further down the road, Early Childhood Education (ECE).

Science tells us that the brain is still forming at three and four years old. We know that the growing human body needs fresh air, nutritious food and nurturing care. Add to that an environment where young ones are encouraged to be inquisitive, to get their hands dirty, and to build on what interests them – and you have early childhood education.

The difference between preschool and early childhood education was about 25 years of learning and growth as a teacher. In preschool, caregivers work very hard to provide a safe and fun place for children to learn and explore while socializing in play with others. Early childhood education provides all those things and more. It delivers a balanced schedule of structured activities designed to actively prepare children for kindergarten. If you believe

that every child deserves a great start in life, no matter where he or she lives and no matter the parents’ education or socio-economic level, then you believe in early childhood education. Done well, early childhood education is a great equalizer.

Early childhood programs across this country demonstrate stratification of our society by race and class, compounded by centuries of systemic racism among Black and racially indigenous people. To address such inequities, a strong and sustainable early childhood program must be on a continuum of ongoing support, beginning at birth. If we, as a nation, carry a moral obligation to protect and care for the children in our country, there has to be equal access for childcare as well as dynamic early childhood programs for all. The frailties of the current educational system (even before COVID) have positioned educational leaders to look deeply into this crisis of just how fairly and equally we educate all children, beginning at birth.

So much work still needs to be done if we are really to begin looking at sustaining equitable early childhood classrooms and equitable teacher programs, specifically in mindset and teaching practices across this country.

The pandemic forced all of us to look at our practices and to push to make this educational system better for all.

Before we start to look at surface practice, let’s engage in candid discussions on the notion of equitable practices in early childhood education by analyzing the compulsory age requirements across the country, beginning with the state of Missouri. Only then, can we truly begin to level set kindergarten readiness for all children.

Dr. Paula Knight began her career with the St. Louis Public School District in 1994 as a classroom teacher at Hamilton Elementary School.

Knight has a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from St. Louis University and a Master of Arts, and a Doctorate in Education Leadership from the University of Missouri-St. Louis. As of July 1, 2021, Knight was unanimously approved by the Jennings School Board of Directors to be the Superintendent of Schools, beginning the 2021-2022 academic year.

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.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • December 22, 2021

Around Town

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Maryland Heights Police Department helps prevent child abuse with facial hair

Collaborative bike drive sees 350 bikes collected for local children

Submitted photo

Submitted photo In addition to securing 350 bikes and helmets for underserved children through a collaborative bike drive, the Mechanical Contractors Association of Eastern Missouri (MCA) and Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 562 donated $7,500 to Our Little Haven. Pictured (from left) are Tim Decker, C&R Mechanical Company; Brian Nichols, Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 562; Xavier Gassier, Plumbing Industry Council; Kristy Stephens, MCA; Chris Munoz, Our Little Haven; John O'Mara, Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 562; Kim Slovacek, MCA; George Corey, Pipe and Duct Systems LLC and Kurt Voss, Integrated Facility Services.

The Mechanical Contractors Association of Eastern Missouri (MCA), Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 562 and the Plumbing Industry Council joined forces this year for their first collaborative charitable giving initiative, a bike drive through which they secured 350 bikes to be donated to underserved area children.

From Nov. 8 to Dec. 2, members of the three groups donated fully assembled bicycles and scores of helmets for children ages two to seven, with the host organizations securing the additional helmets needed to ensure one was available to donate with each bike.

In the coming weeks, the bikes and helmets will be delivered to several local organizations that will be distributing them to the children they serve to help provide a little holiday cheer. The recipient organizations include Bible Way Fellowship Church of the Living God, St. Louis Bicycle Works, Our Little Haven, Toys for Tots, Feed My People, Saints Joachim and Ann Care Service, Saint Norbert – Knights of Columbus, Jennings Do-Dads, Orchard Farm School District, city of Ferguson, Florissant Police Department, and Gene Slay’s Girls and Boys Club of St. Louis.

“The joy on the face of a young child on Christmas morning is undeniable.

For many years now, Mechanical Contractors Association and its members have been fulfilling holiday wishes for children and families helped by Our Little Haven,” said Chris Muñoz, Associate Director of Our Little Haven, a St. Louis organization focused around supporting underserved area youth.

“We are honored to share the joy each

child experiences with our community partners. Thank you for your continued support and for sharing in our mission to care for every child, mind, body, and soul.”

In addition to co-hosting this year’s bike drive, the MCA and Local 562 also made a separate $7,500 donation to Our Little Haven. This donation will be used to replace a leaky roof located at 4435 West Pine Blvd. in the Taylor Family Care Center, which serves as the offices of Our Little Haven’s foster care case managers, who help more than 90 area children currently in the foster care system find a permanent loving and nurturing family home.

“We are thrilled to continue our long-standing support of Our Little Haven and to extend our holiday giving to several other charitable organizations through this new collaboration with our industry partners,” said Kristy Stephens, Executive Director of the MCA. “It’s truly heartwarming to be able to positively impact the lives of so many children this holiday season, and we look forward to collaborating on similar initiatives for years to come.”

John Boyd, a pipefitter and the pastor at Bible Way Fellowship Church of the Living God, also shared his appreciation for the sponsoring organizations and their members, noting how they not only provide a service for the industrial community, but also take time to think of the little ones in the season of giving.

With each bike and helmet combo averaging a $130 value, it is estimated that the inaugural Bike Drive raised the equivalent of $45,000 in bikes and helmets for local children.

As an offshoot of “No Shave Novem- $4,000 was raised to help the Crisis Nursber,” the Maryland Heights Police De- ery; the Maryland Heights Police Department held its first annual “Beards for partment led over $2,800 in donations.

Babies” to benefit the Saint Louis Crisis Detective Shane Monnig is the winner Nursery and raised $4,000 to help pre- of the “best beard” and will be allowed to vent child abuse and neglect. wear his beard until the end of the year.

Chief Bill Carson has temporarily sus“Chief Carson, the Maryland Heights pended the department policy that re- Police Department, and other departstricts the wearing of beards; any officer, ments across our region know about the friend, or family member could volun- important work of the Crisis Nursery. tarily make a minimum donation of $50 We are excited about this new and fun to the Crisis Nursery and spend Novem- way for them to help us keep kids safe,” ber growing their Beards for Babies. said DiAnne Mueller, CEO of the Crisis Carson said, “We wanted to do some- Nursery. thing charitable, preferably for children and families, and at the same time support organizations that are in our community.”

The MHPD challenged other area police and fire departments to see who would raise the most money for the Saint Louis Crisis Nursery: the Hazelwood Police Department, North County Police Cooperative and Overland Police www.treesbywood.net Department all accepted the challenge. A total of

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December 22, 2021 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

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Happy holidays, neighbors. www.lifesmiledentalcare.com

Rachel Williams, Agent 9360 Olive Blvd Olivette, MO 63132 Bus: 314-485-8990 Fax: 314-485-8994 rachel@insurancequotestlmo.com State Farm Bloomington, IL 2006051

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I wish all my neighbors a safe and happy holiday season and the very best in the New Year. It’s a true joy to be part of such a wonderful community.

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.®

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • December 22, 2021

5

Winterfest hosts family-friendly New Year’s Eve Neon Nights Celebration and fireworks Bright lights, big city! Skate into 2022 with a celebration the entire family will love at the on Friday, Dec. 31 from 4 – 8 p.m. Neon Nights is presented by Gateway Arch Park Foundation with support from Missouri Lottery.

The Neon Nights celebration features fun for the entire family, including: • Skating “Wild Lights” • Winterfest ice skating juggler (4 – 6 p.m.)

• DJ MaKossa • Fire dancers (6 – 8 p.m.)

• Neon face painters • Fireworks (8 p.m.)

• Balloon artist • Photo booth • Giveaways (while supplies last) including Missouri Lottery prize packs*, holiday twinkle glasses, glow neon necklaces, glow 2022 LED glasses, party hats and noise makers

• December 25 (Christmas Day): 2 – 8 p.m.

Extended Hours: December 27 – 31, 2021: Open daily from 12 – 8 p.m.

Activities: • Ice skate rentals: $12/adults; $7/children ages 3 to 15.

• Guests skate for free if they bring their own skates.

• Kids’ skate rentals are free on Fridays and daily December 25 – January 1, courtesy of the St. Louis Blues.

• S’mores kits: $15 per kit (includes ingredients for six s’mores) with access to fire pits • Igloo reservations: $250 per igloo

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For more information: Visit ArchPark.org/Winterfest for the full programming schedule and to reserve ice skates, s’mores kits and igloos.

www.valleyind.net

*Must be 18 or older to play.

GENERAL WINTERFEST INFORMATION: Gateway Arch Park Foundation’s Winterfest is presented by Bank of America and World Wide Technology and produced in partnership with the St. Louis Blues.

www.donheneferjewelers.com

Winterfest Hours: Now through January 2 • Fridays 4 – 8 p.m.

• Saturdays and Sundays 12 – 8 p.m.

www.explorecatholicschools.org

www.londoff.com

www.kaybeeelectric.com

www.DeSmetRetirement.org

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Northwest News

December 22, 2021 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Northwest Views:

By Dr. Nick Holekamp

New endowment fund helps children transition home safely Ranken Jordan Pediatric Bridge Hospital is thrilled to announce that it has received a gift over half a million dollars to grow its endowment and establish a new restricted endowment fund to facilitate patients’ transition home.

Former Ranken Jordan Board Member, Mary Ellen Brucker, who died in April 2021, gave the transformational gift through her estate. The gift will greatly enhance Ranken Jordan’s endowment which provides long-term support for the 60-bed pediatric bridge hospital, as well as establish the Mary Ellen Brucker Transitional Fund. The latter will provide funding for families to do home modifications to better accommodate their children as they return home from care and treatment at Ranken Jordan.

Ranken Jordan is a one-of-a-kind pediatric bridge hospital that serves as a critical transition stop between acute care hospitals and home. Ranken Jordan patients stay an average of 45 days,

receiving a broad spectrum of medical, therapy and support services. They practice a model called Care Beyond the Bedside which promotes getting children up and out of their beds, and engaged in play-based therapy. lay promotes healing, like no other treatment we can provide these children. I have seen children with incredibly complex diagnoses make enormous progress when they are motivated to play and be active. This kind of care just makes sense, we would love to see more hospitals adopt a similar philosophy.

This gift will help us continue to provide playful healing to many more children in the future.

Out of the over half million-dollar Brucker estate gift, $127,000 will go to the establishment of the new Mary Ellen Brucker Transitional Fund. The new fund will provide critical support when patients are medically ready to go home, but face barriers to getting there.

Ranken Jordan patients are consid-

ered medically complex, the challenges for Ranken Jordan families are great, and they continue when patients go home. Oftentimes patients need new accessibility measures put in place before they can safely return home, in addition to continued medical and therapy treatment once they get there.

The Mary Ellen Brucker Transitional Fund will help address these needs such as installing ramps, purchasing specialized wheelchairs, specialty car seats, as well as home modifications to address a multitude of accessibility issues from stairs to bathrooms. While the needs of families are extensive, and well beyond what Ranken Jordan can provide, the Mary Ellen Brucker Transitional Fund will help with this ongoing challenge and more children will get home sooner thanks to the new fund.

We’re forever grateful for Mary Ellen’s transformational gift that furthers our mission of bridging the transition from hospital to home safely. To have funds dedicated to patients’ transition needs is so impactful. The Mary Ellen Brucker Transitional Fund will help us reduce barriers so children can continue their healing journey at home — it will help them cross the finish line.

Mary Ellen Brucker was a successful public relations professional, world traveler and accomplished photographer. While Mary Ellen was involved in many organizations, she developed a special connection to Ranken Jordan after visiting and seeing the challenges that the children faced firsthand. She served on the Ranken Jordan board from 1988-2005 including a transformational time for the hospital when it transitioned from being a convalescent home to a licensed pediatric hospital.

Mary Ellen’s communications expertise was pivotal during that time.

Her children characterize her as a warm, caring, and intelligent woman with a great spirit for life. “She was ahead of her time in many ways and was very independent. She was well accomplished in her own right and was sought after on boards for her PR abilities,” shared her son, Edward Brucker.

Mary Ellen Brucker (Mellon) was born in Seattle and lived the first 10

years of her life in the Philippines from 1928-1938. She graduated from Stanford in 1947 where she was an editor on the Stanford Daily. Her writing career took her to multiple states and eventually she married Gene Brucker and moved to St. Louis, Missouri. She continued to trailblaze in public relations, was active in many local organizations as well as being a nationally recognized member of the Photographic Society of America.

Mary Ellen’s spirit was similar to another generous, independent woman — Mary Ranken Jordan, our hospital founder. Mary Ellen exemplified the character and passion of Mary Ranken Jordan who always considered children first. Mary Ellen’s gift creates another way we’re able to put children’s needs first.

Her children, Katherine Brucker of Ottawa and Edward Brucker of St. Louis carry on her traits of independence, love of travel, passion for great communication and her philanthropic spirit.

They expressed pride in their mother’s legacy gift, sharing: “Our mom had a practical side but also a very loving and warm-hearted side, her endowment gift is not for a one-time project — it will be something that lasts forever.”

Mary Ellen Brucker’s tremendous estate gift, which includes the new Mary Ellen Brucker Transitional Fund, will help Ranken Jordan continue providing children with the best place to heal through play and also help facilitate their transition home.

There are many ways to support the children at Ranken Jordan, including donations to the endowment, annual gifts, tribute and memorial gifts, attending or sponsoring events, hosting fundraisers, and more. For more information, visit www.rankenjordan.org/giving or call 314-872-6414.

Nick Holekamp, MD, is Chief Medical Officer at Ranken Jordan Pediatric Bridge Hospital.

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.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • December 22, 2021

Northwest News

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Parkway community survey shows high levels of satisfaction Parkway recently surveyed community residents, parents and staff about a number of issues facing the future of learning for students and priorities for future facilities improvements.

Over 5,600 stakeholders completed the survey.

Here are the survey results: Satisfaction • Over 82% of respondents gave Parkway a grade of an A or B overall (compared to 43% for other public schools in Missouri) • About 80% strongly or somewhat agree that residents get excellent value for the taxes paid to Parkway • Over 75% gave Parkway’s response to the pandemic

an A or B Statements • 75% of respondents strongly or somewhat agree that many of the district’s buildings are old and need maintenance, repair and renovation • 95% strongly or somewhat agree that it’s important to keep our school buildings up-to-date and in good condition to protect our community’s investment School Improvement needs • Around 90% of respondents said the following should be a priority – Keeping classroom instructional technologies upto-date and upgrading technology infrastructure to

provide more reliable internet – Energy-efficient upgrades and replacement of aging equipment like heating and cooling systems, plumbing, roofs, windows and doors – Upgrading air ventilation and controls to improve air quality • Around 80% of respondents said the following should be a priority: – Improvements to increase accessibility for children with special needs – Renovating aging restrooms and locker rooms – Updating playground surfaces for safety and durability

Happy holidays, neighbors.

Rachel Williams, Agent 9360 Olive Blvd Olivette, MO 63132 Bus: 314-485-8990 Fax: 314-485-8994 rachel@insurancequotestlmo.com

I wish all my neighbors a safe and happy holiday season and the very best in the New Year. It’s a true joy to be part of such a wonderful community.

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.®

State Farm Bloomington, IL 2006051

www.colliersfuneralhome.com

www.hoodsauto.com www.Pro-Fit.Health

8

What’s Happening

December 22, 2021 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

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

Take notice . . .

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

EVENTS

Dec. 24: Christmas Eve service

Calvary UCC at 2501 Hartland Avenue is back this year for in-person worship on Christmas Eve. This traditional service, which includes candle lighting and communion, begins at 11 p.m., with some preservice music beforehand. All are welcome, but as of now masks and spacing are required. Call 314-429-7464 with questions.

RECURRING EVENTS Weekdays: Food pantry volunteers needed

The Harvey Kornblum Jewish Food Pantry is in need of ongoing adult volunteers to sort food, stock shelves and shop with clients.

Two-to-four hour shifts are available, Monday-Friday 8:45 a.m.-3:45 p.m.

To learn more or to join this fun group, contact Chelsey Banaskavich at 314-513-1674 or cbanaskavich@jfcs-stl.org.

Mondays: TOPS meeting

Come, join and take off those extra pounds. T.O.P.S.=Take Off Pounds Sensibly has meetings on Monday nights at 7 p.m. (weigh in begins at 6:35 p.m.) 9135 Shelley Avenue, Overland, MO 63114. (Entrance is in the back on East Milton). TOPS is a very inexpensive way to lose weight.

You may visit a meeting for free. Any questions please call Dan Agee at 314-540-5223.

Mondays: Choral Arts Singers practice

Choral Arts Singers resume practice on Mondays, at 7 p.m. at Transfiguration Episcopal Church, 1860 Lake St. Louis Blvd. in Lake St. Louis. New singers are welcome. Auditions are not required. See www.concertarts.org.

Mondays: City council meetings

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

Mondays: meetings

Workshop

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

Mondays: A cappella singers

All men who like to sing are invited to come sing with us, The Men of Harmony. We practice every Monday night at 7 p.m. at 5500 Parker Road which is the first house on Uthe Lane. We sing four-part harmony a capella (without accompaniment). We sing some traditional songs, as well as show tunes and more contemporary music. We do perform for the public at various functions. Persons interested can come right on in or for more information call Al at 314-993-6134.

Mondays: Korean War Veterans Association meeting

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

Mondays-Thursdays: Volunteers needed

Community Action Agency of St. Louis County is in need of volunteers to stock shelves, sort food shipments and pack bags for Food Pantry Clients Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. Two to four hour shifts are available. If you are interested, please contact Cheryl Piece at 314-446-4440 or cpiece@ caastlc.org for additional information.

Tuesdays: Bingo

Florissant Elks Bingo takes place at 16400 New Halls Ferry every Tuesday. Doors open at 4 p.m., bingo starts

at 6 p.m. No outside food or drinks allowed per St. Louis County. Food and drinks available for purchase. Maximum 150 players. Must wear mask to enter. Social distancing followed.

Tuesdays: A cappella singers

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

They try to do public events monthly. Always looking for new members. Come by or call Charlie at 314-954-1121.

Tuesdays: Chair Zumba

Chair Zumba every Tuesday from 2:15 – 3 p.m. at The Bridge At Florissant at 1101 Garden Plaza Dr. (Parker @ Arlington). For more information call 314-831-0988.

Tuesdays: Celebrate Recovery

Celebrate Recovery Tuesday meetings take place at 6 p.m. with a Saturday Bible Study at 9 a.m. at LifePoint Church at 424 Graham Rd. in Florissant. For more information visit www.lifepointministries. church/celebrate-recovery or call (men) Steve D. at 636634-6582 or (women) Denise W. at 530-417-6151.

Tuesdays: Choir rehearsals

The St. Louis Chordinals, a women’s a cappella chorus, rehearse every Tuesday evening from 7 - 9:30 p.m. at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church at 12397 Natural Bridge Rd. in Bridgeton (next to the Bridgeton Government Center). For more information call Linda at 314-839-3495 or visit stlouischordinals.org.

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 McConnell, 314-831-5476.

2nd Tuesday Sept.-June: Show-me Stitchers: Show-me Stitchers is the local chapter of the Embroiderers’ Guild of America. We meet on the second Tuesday, Sept.June at 6:30 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, 14088 Clayton Road, Chesterfield, MO. Learn needlepoint, embroidery, cross stitch, and more.

Every 4th Tuesday of the month: Fort Bellefontaine Memorial American Le-

gion Post 335 meeting

6:30pm, Fort Bellefontaine Memorial American Legion Post 335, at the Bellefontaine Neighbors Community Center at 9669 Bellefontaine Rd. Those interested in membership are invited to attend.

Wednesdays: Bingo

Bingo takes place every Wednesday at American Legion Post 338 at 9655 Midland Blvd. in Overland. Doors open at 5 p.m. For more information contact Chairman Ed Hilleman at 314-660-1813.

Wednesdays: Bingo

Life Care Center of Bridgeton, at 12145 Bridgeton Square in Bridgeton, welcome all to Community Bingo every last Wednesday of the month at 2:30 p.m. Light refreshment will be served. Please RVSP at 314-298-7444 with the month you will attend and number of people attending.

Wednesdays: TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly)

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) meets from 6 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. at St. Andrews United Methodist Church at 3975 N. Hwy 67 in Florissant. For more information contact Norma at 314-306-4731.

Every Wednesday: Bingo Morning at Florissant Elks Lodge #2316

Florissant Elks Lodge #2316, 16400 New Halls Ferry Rd. in Florissant. Doors at 7:30 a.m., games begin at 9:30 a.m. For more information, call 314921-2316.

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

3-4 p.m., Center for Senior Renewal, Detrick Building 1st floor, 11133 Dunn Rd. For more information, contact Jamie Stevens at 314-653-5331.

Thursdays: Bingo

Community Bingo at the Bridge At Florissant, at 1101 Garden Plaza Drive (intersection of Parker and Arlington) takes place on the third Thursday of each month starts at 2 p.m. There will be snacks

and prizes. For more information call 314-831-0988.

Thursdays: Quilting guild

Every third Thursday of the month the Flower Valley Quilting Guild meets at 7 p.m. at Zion Lutheran Church at 123 Carson Road in Ferguson.

Thursdays: Blood pressure checks

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

Thursdays: Women’s chorus meeting

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

Fridays: Fish fry

A fish fry takes place every Friday at American Legion Post 338 at 9655 Midland Blvd. in Overland from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information contact Chairman Ed Hilleman at 314-660-1813.

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

Every 3rd Friday of the month: Bingo

2 p.m., Life Care Center of Florissant, 1201 Garden Plaza Dr. For more information, call 314-831-3752.

Saturdays: Yoga

Yoga returns to Calvary UCC at 2501 Hartland Avenue, on Saturdays from 10:30-11:30.

Masks and social distancing are required in the building and participants should bring hand sanitizer with them. For further information call Angela at 314-801-8594.

Saturdays: Toastmasters meeting

Everyone is welcome to attend Toastmasters Saturdays 9 to 10:30 a.m. at Normandy United Methodist Church at 8001 Natural Bridge Road (across from UMSL). For more info call 314-402-7025.

Saturdays: Free walk-in clinic

Salam Clinic at St. Peter’s United Church of Christ at 1425 Stein Road at West Florissant in Ferguson is a free walk-in clinic open Saturdays from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. The clinic is jointly sponsored by the Muslim Community of St. Louis (MCSL) and St. Peter’s United Church of Christ to provide basic adult medical screening, treatment and referrals free of charge for the uninsured. For more information or if you would be interested in volunteering, please call 314-521-5694 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday – Friday or visit www.stpeterschurch.org.

Saturdays: Clothing sale

On the second Saturday of each month Bethany-Peace UCC at 11952 Bellefontaine Rd. in St. Louis County hosts a clothing sale from 9 - 11 a.m.

For sale are used clothing and shoes, some household items, books and toys. Fill your bag for $1.

Saturdays: Grief support

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

Every Fourth Saturday’s Writer’s Workshop

10 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. at Baden Library, at 8448 Church Rd. For more information call 314-388-2400.

Sundays: Meat shoot

Come and enjoy the meat shoots at American Legion Post 4445 located on 17090 Old Jamestown Rd. between Sinks Rd. and Lindbergh starting noon Sept. 15 thru Nov. 17; and in the spring, Feb. 2 thru March 8 rain or shine.

Great meat prizes awarded.

Sundays: AMVETS meat shoot

Sundays in September through April, AMVETS Post 55, located on 8842 Natural Bridge Rd. in Bel-Ridge will be hosting meat shoots with practice beginning at 11 a.m. and rounds starting at noon.

Shooters must be 18 or older and will shoot #9’s with no bull barrels or scopes and 675 minimum chokes. The shooting area is indoors and food and drink are available in the club room. For more information, contact 314-630-2671 or 314-330-7269.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • December 22, 2021 Sundays: Jennings DoDads meeting

The Jennings Do-Dads hold meetings every third Sunday of the month (except June which is the second Sunday and no meeting in December) at 1 p.m. at Classics Bar & Grill at 11601 West Florissant Avenue. Those interested in membership are invited to attend. For more information visit www.jenningsdodads.org.

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 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.

1st Tuesday of Every Month: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group Meeting Meeting to be held at Sarah Care of Bridgeton Adult Day Center 11977 St. Charles Rock Road, Suite 121-124, Bridgeton, MO 63044. Join our Support Group for Mutual, Emotional Support and Education. You are not alone. For information, contact Deborah Mabrie at 314291-5210 or Ferd Fetsch at 314-291-3021 Email: dbland@ sarahcare.com ferdfetsch@ sbcglobal.net.

Every third Tuesday of every month: Grief Support Group sponsored by DePaul Hospital

11:30am-1pm, Maryland Hgts.

Comm. Ctr., 2300 McKelvey Rd. For more information, call 314-344-6873.

Wednesdays: Schizophrenia Group

ACES Support

6:30 - 7:30pm, 314-839-3171.

Sundays: Alcoholics Anonymous Group 109

11th floor conference room at Christian Hospital, 10am, 11133 Dunn Road.

Diabetes Basics:

314-344-7024 for info or 314344-7220 to enroll.

Crisis Nursery:

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

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

Center for Senior Renewal:

Day treatment programs for older adults dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, loss and early signs of dementia, 314653-5123.

Nutrition Education:

SSM DePaul registered dieticians can help you make sure your diet is right for you, 314344-6157.

Christian Hospital Recovery Center:

Outpatient mental health and substance abuse treatment for adults, 314-953-8100.

Volunteers Needed at Christian Hospital: Call

314-653-5032.

Nicotine Anonymous

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

Look Good…Feel Better

SSM Cancer Care at DePaul Health Center, 12303 DePaul Drive. Radiation OncologyBridgeton. Attend a great 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.

for Women Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse

SilverSneakers Senior Wellness Program at the Maryland Heights Centre

Third Saturdays: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group

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 state-of-the-art fitness equipment and circuit training.

Membership is available at little or no cost through your health plan. To find out if you are eligible, visit www.silversneakers. com or call 314-738-2599.

Smoking Classes:

Cessation

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

SSM DePaul Center:

Wellness

Classes available on strength training, nutrition and smoking cessation, 314-344-6177.

Free Mammogram Screenings:

SSM Health Care free mammogram screenings to women who have no health insurance.

Appointments at 300 First Capitol Drive in St. Charles and SSM St. Joseph Hospital West, 100 Medical Plaza in Lake Saint Louis, 636-947-5617.

Speaker’s Bureau:

SSM speakers available for organizations, clubs, community and church groups for up to one hour free of charge, 636-9497159.

ONGOING SUPPORT GROUPS Sundays: Support Group for Women Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse

6:30 - 8pm, 7401 Delmar Ave. in University City, 314-993-5421.

First and Third Tuesdays: Support Group

SUDOKU answers from page F-1

12:30 - 2 p.m., 320 Forsyth Blvd., Clayton, 314-968-3477.

At Delmar Gardens North, 4401 Parker Rd., Florissant, 9 a.m., 314.355.1516, Helpline 800-272-3900.

Last Saturdays: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group:

Mother of Good Counsel Home, 6825 Natural Bridge, St. Louis, 10:30am 314-383-4765.

Last Tuesdays: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group

What’s Happening Wednesdays: Schizo-phrenia Group

STEPS Support

6:30-7:30pm, 314-839-3171.

Calcium Scoring Heart Scan Program

SSM DePaul Health Center. This program uses advanced (CT) imaging to scan the arteries around the heart and measure or score the amount of calcium present in the plaque deposits.

This screening, in combination with other heart disease risk factors (high cholesterol, high blood pressure, cigarette smoking, physical inactivity, etc.) can help determine an overall picture of your current heart health and your risk for developing heart disease. Call 314344-6030 to learn more about

the heart scan program or to schedule an appointment.

SSM St. Joseph Health Center & Hospital West Auxiliary

Non profit organization assisting the hosp. by holding fund raisering activities, being of service to patients, families, employees & physicians and acting as good will ambassadors to community. We welcome new member. Call Barb Hutchinson 636-947-5466.

The Barnes St. Peters Hospital Auxiliary is looking for New Members

If you would like to become a member please call 636-9169664.

Missouri Veterans Home, 10600 Lewis & Clark, St. Louis, 1 p.m., 314-340-6389.

Wednesdays: Weekly Cancer Survivor’s Support Group

H.W. Koenig Medical Building at SSM St. Joseph Hospital West, 3 - 4:30pm, free, 636755-3034.

12 Step Support Group for Women Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse:

Meets in 4 locations in the metro St Louis area. Information: metrostlouissia@gmail. com.

Wednesdays: New Choices Nar-Anon Family Group at Zion Lutheran Church

12075 Dorsett Road, Maryland Heights, 7:30 – 9 p.m., www.

Nar-Anon.org

Thursdays: Grief Share Support Group Church of the Nazarene, 1309 N. Elizabeth Ave., Ferguson 6:30 - 8pm, leecedra@sbcglobal.net.

Mondays & Thursdays: Breathe/for people with pulmonary disease Graham Medical Center, 1150 Graham Rd. Suite 104, 11am 12pm, $30, 314-953-6090.

CROSSWORD answers from page F-4

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www.InvinciCorp.com

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Around Town

December 22, 2021 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

WWW.MYCNEWS.COM

Still In This Together:

By Vicki Bahr

Christmas is what you make it You all know what I know. It was early October and the alert came out that required seasonal spices were going to be in short supply this year. And suddenly, I felt it was imperative to bake a pumpkin pie. I raced to the grocery store to buy what I needed, and added a few spices I’ve never used before in my life, just because they might not be available for long. And when I noticed there was a limit of one on paper towels and toilet paper again, I grabbled one of each just to be sure.

And just as radio stations began playing unlimited Christmas music in early November, there were warnings about supply chain worries. If we consumers were looking for a particular gift this year, we’d better hurry. They might not be available at all. Hurry, hurry, rush, rush, or it might not happen. Christmas will be ruined and the implication is that it will be our own fault.

I started remembering all the holidays that weren’t quite perfect and how I always thought the next year would be better. The kids would be older, no one would be sick, the turkey would be perfectly cooked, the family Christmas picture wouldn’t include a crying child, all wishes would be granted, and the lights on the Christmas tree would all miraculously be working.

I spent so much time thinking about next year that I missed the perfection right under my nose. The red and green construction paper chains we made to count down the days were so much fun, the beard for Santa that we added one cotton ball to each day in December was exciting, as was the daily discussion whose turn it was to move the little mouse into the new pocket on the cloth Advent calendar each morning. And it was all so magical.

One of the best Christmases my sisters and I still remember each December was the year our dad decided to be the first on the block to buy a “reusable tree.”

It was a brand-new concept, and he was so proud, that he kept the receipt to show everybody he’d paid $15 for the bristly green wires that were so realistic (NOT!), so easy to put together (NOT!), and so much easier to deal with. There was no longer a need to

water the tree, no more dry needles covering the floor, no fire concerns, and we could keep the tree up longer, conveniently rebox it, and store it in the basement for years.

The first issue was the booklet of directions that was difficult to decipher. Dad decided after a few minutes to just “wing it.” Couldn’t be that hard. (Yes, it could!) Everyone lost interest pretty quickly, and Dad was left on his own to put the tree together and wind lights in and out of the fake branches in an attempt to make it look a little more realistic. I was in the next room doing homework, and popped in periodically for support. I was there when he found that the middle row of predrilled holes wouldn’t hold the branches without them falling back out onto the floor. The predrilling wasn’t far enough into the wooden post, so Dad went downstairs to his workbench and retrieved his electric drill to make the holes just a little deeper.

Bet you’ve already guessed this story isn’t going to go well. Dad had to put some shoulder into the drill to get it to bore deeper, and pushed just a bit too hard on one of the holes, drilling through the entire pole. Which necessitated electrical tape, lots and lots of electrical tape, to hold the post together, made the tree lean a bit, necessitated it be covered in some spots with very large ornaments, and led to the tree’s nickname: “The Charlie Brown Tree.”

We kept the tree for years, and we’ve shared the memories even longer.

Merry Christmas everyone! Make it memorable, and enjoy some pumpkin pie! The grocery store freezers are suddenly full of them.

Vicki Bahr is an inveterate word lover and story sharer, a published author in magazine, newspaper and blog forms. As a mom of four, grandma of nine, and wife of one for nearly 49 years, she finds that inspiration and wonder are everywhere.

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

www.mycnews.com • Community News • December 22, 2021

Recipe: Butter makes it better

B

utter not only adds incredible flavor to everything it touches, its unique properties are key to preparing many classic sweet and savory dishes. We all know that butter is delicious, but it is more than just a tasty fridge staple.

Feature

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– SUDOKU –

“This creamy dairy ingredient is responsible for the texture and quality of many favorite holiday foods,” notes Amanda Marsh, registered dietitian with St. Louis District Dairy Council.

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.

Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies This dairylicious cookie melts in your mouth and is the perfect example of how butter makes it better. Add this recipe to your lineup of holiday treats—along with plenty of ice cold milk!

Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes Yield: 24 cookies Ingredients: 1/2 cup salted butter, softened 1 8 oz package cream cheese, softened 1-1/2 cups granulated sugar 1 large egg, room temperature 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2-1/4 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 cup confectioners sugar 3 teaspoons baking powder 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar, for rolling cookie dough in

Directions:

gradually beat into creamed mixture.

Preheat oven to 350°F.

Using a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop, scoop dough and then roll in confectioners’ sugar.

Place approximately 6 dough balls on parchment paper-lined baking sheets.

In a large bowl using a hand-held mixer, beat butter, cream cheese and granulated sugar until blended.

Add in egg and vanilla.

Add in flour, baking powder, and 1/2 cup confectioners sugar. With the mixer on low,

Bake until they no longer appear wet on top, 8-11 minutes. After about 5 minutes, place on wire racks to cool.

Visit www.stldairycouncil.org for more information about butter.

SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 9

Rita Moreno, Rachel Zegler, Ariana DeBose shine in ‘West Side Story’ remake

O

Movie:

By Steve Bryan

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.

ne of the greatest directors of all time, Steven Spielberg, put his mark on a variety of genres. In 1975, his terrifying aquatic adventure “Jaws” kept people out of the water. The simple teaser trailer for 1982’s “E.T. The Extra Terrestrial” didn’t show how popular Elliot and his little alien friend would become. The groundbreaking “Close Encounters of the Third Kind” proved that music really was the universal language. The World War II drama “Schindler’s List” was so powerful, heartbreaking and moving that many audiences left theaters in complete silence.

One has to wonder, though, why Spielberg stepped behind the camera for a “West Side Story” remake. In 1961, directors Jerome Robbins and Robert Wise adapted the stage play for the big screen with Natalie Wood as Maria.

An urban take on Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” the story focused on Maria and Tony, two young lovers caught in a battle between two street gangs. Tony tried to stop the violence, but things turned out badly. As the closing credits rolled, there were lots of questions, but no satisfaction or resolution.

Anyone who watched the 1961 original will

she shared an apartment with her brother Bernardo, she didn’t want to let Tony (Ansel Elgort), a member of the Jets gang, get close to her. Maria’s heart won out and she planned to leave with Tony for a hopefully better life.

It would be a serious cinematic crime if Zegler doesn’t get accolades and awards for her performance.

The 2021 take on “West Side Story” had lots of fresh talent, but the brightest star in the film was Rita Moreno, the recipient of Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony Awards (EGOT). Sixty years after playing Anita in the 1961 “West Side Story” photo courtesy 20th Century Studios film, Moreno didn’t miss a step in the remake. She was a mother-figure to see similarities in Spielberg’s work. To his Tony and stood tall when gang members took credit, the remake captured the passion that’s over the drug store that her character ran with inherent in the story. Ariana DeBose played her late husband. When it comes to acting, no Anita, the passionate, outspoken girlfriend of one lights up the screen quite like Rita Moreno.

Bernardo (David Alvarez), the leader of the Although Steven Spielberg covered familiar Sharks. DeBose resembled a force of nature territory in the remake, Rachel Zegler, Ariana in the dance scenes and should easily receive DeBose and Rita Moreno gave the film its heart a Best Supporting Actress Oscar nod. Anita and soul. This “West Side Story” was worth a was a complex character, but DeBose rose to look just for the performances of these three the challenge. incredible actresses.

With all due respect to the late Natalie Wood, “West Side Story,” rated PG-13, currently is Rachel Zegler, with her beautiful singing voice, playing in theaters. transformed into Maria on screen. Because

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Feature

December 22, 2021 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

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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, have mercy on 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.

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December 22, 2021 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

Yeggs

John Hanna

CROSSWORD: Winter Fun

‘Yeggs’ is a comic series about Robert and Bill, two rabbits who have opened their own egg franchise in the Midwest (St. Louis area). We follow their day to day lives, watching as they go about the hectic task of preparing for their one big day every year. Along the way they have adventures filled with fun, comic doings and pathos.

By Cindy Moore

Moore on Life Well it looks as if the old Grinch might have won trying to steal away our Christmas.

First came the shipping cargo container crisis. I hear they’re still out there circling around the port trying to find a parking spot.

The solution to my parking problems is simple.

I ease up to the store’s exit and stalk out my target. I’ll choose someone coming out with a bag of groceries…not a cartload, which will take forever to unload. Then I’ll stealthily drive behind them until they get to their car and quickly slam on the brakes and throw on the blinker.

I have just marked my territory and claimed my spot. (Consider this your Christmas gift from me to you, but if we should meet up in the same parking lot, forget everything I’ve told you.)

Next, the energy prices. It costs a fortune for home heating and to fill up the gas tank. Then once at the store, I’ll find the shelves are barer than Old Mother Hubbard’s.

The grinchy supply chain crunch has put the squeeze on gift giving. Forget trying to find an XBox. Heck, I’d even take a cheap knock off A, B or C Box, but they’re gone too.

I have a feeling everyone’s getting a package of toilet paper this year. I stocked up after the last TP panic and have plenty on hand. But I’m writing down names. In case there’s a shortage again I’ll know where to go and issue a recall on my gift.

The next bit of humbuggery came with the food shortage. The turkeys flew the coop. No roasted beast for our feast. Can you believe, even ketchup

packets are a scarcity? Good thing I saved all mine and had the common sense not to give them out at Halloween.

There’s rumored to be a pet food shortage. I tried to explain that to my pampered felines. The fat one licked his chops then chortled and said, “What shortage? I see the backup supply standing right in front of me.”

But fear not, if you find coal in your stocking be merry; that’s another day of heat for the home. Or if you only find ketchup packets, stick a straw in them and consider them tiny juice boxes.

The holiday will come without the XBox or the cardboard box without the toilet paper or the wrapping paper. So give your loved ones a hug, (but maybe not the pets if they’re looking at you like a double cheeseburger) and have yourself a merry little Christmas!

Nah humbug

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.

ACROSS 1. Rope fiber 5. Mai ____ 8. Russia’s Terrible one, e.g.

12. “What ____ Happened to Baby Jane?”

13. Tattled 14. Actress Reed 15. Internet share-able 16. Inwardly 17. Black tropical hardwood 18. *Winged impression in winter 20. Home of the Hawkeyes 21. Investigative report 22. Chicken or this?

23. Not dense 26. Early-day supercontinent 30. Afternoon shut-eye 31. Even though 34. Picture on a coat 35. Anti-seniors sentiment 37. Jean of Dadaism 38. Crewneck alternative 39. Half-man, half-goat 40. Arm cover 42. Victoria Beckham ____ Adams 43. Lacking sense of moral standards 45. Flying high

47. Often part of disguise 48. Queen-like 50. Wood file 52. *____ ____ Plunge 56. Secret stash 57. Damien’s prediction 58. Not at work 59. Opposite of cation 60. Abbreviated seconds 61. Precedes stated rank 62. Moon pull 63. *Like toddy or cocoa 64. Trans-Siberian Railroad city DOWN 1. Shortens pants 2. Like fair share 3. Short for memorandum 4. Antebellum 5. Polynesian kingdom 6. Ten-pin establishment 7. Bucolic poem 8. *Ride on runners 9. *Winter building material 10. Tolstoy’s Karenina 11. R&B Charles 13. *Glittery decor 14. Condescend 19. Indian black tea 22. Nibble 23. Big mess

24. Like a Druid, e.g.

25. Celery, technically 26. *Snowman’s corn cob accessory 27. Are not 28. Wedding singer, e.g.

29. Questioned 32. *Snow____, ammunition 33. *”But I heard him exclaim, ____ he drove out of sight...”

36. *Winter walking aid 38. Type of consonant 40. Actors’ grp.

41. a.k.a. strict vegetarians 44. Mature, as in fruit 46. Like Silas of “The Da Vinci Code” 48. Young Montague 49. Decide at the polls 50. Jasmine of “Aladdin” 51. Turns blue litmus red 52. #42 Across, once 53. Cheese from Netherlands 54. Contributions to the poor 55. Stink to high heaven 56. *Arctic ____, snowmobile brand

SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 9