CN: December 23, 2015

December 23, 2015

Businesses with ‘Big Ideas’ Recipes

All about desserts

Community Voices

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By Adolphus M. Pruitt, II

Submitted photo The judges and winners of The Big Idea Pitch and NCI staff pictured are: (front row, from left) Joshura Davis, Best Insurance Agency, Robin Shively, Corners Frameshop & Gallery, Paul Simon Crosby, Paw Purfect Pet Salon; (second row, from left) Rebecca Zoll, North County Incorporated, Crystal Carter, U.S. Bank, Jacqueline Shultz, St. Louis Economic Development Partnership, Lillie Dumas, Commerce Bank, David Reed, St. Louis Outlet Mall, Eric Schneider, St. Louis Regional Chamber, Evan Maxwell, North County Incorporated.

Three North County businesses walked away winners in The Big Idea Pitch competition

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Record number of participants

By Sara Hardin Three businesses are proud winners of The Big Idea Pitch contest, organized by North County Inc. in an effort to promote commerce in North County. The business plan contest was put together in partnership with the St. Louis Community Foundation and the Regional Business Council, and was funded by the U.S. Bank Foundation and the Reinvest North County Fund.

As a response to the damage inflicted upon businesses due to the Ferguson unrest, U.S. Bank Foundation donated $75,000 to North County Inc. The Big Idea Pitch was organized under the same sentiment.

“The concept was for us to put together a business plan showing how we would work to grow and expand our business, the idea being that healthy businesses will help to recover from everything that had been going on in the last year in a half at the time,” said Robin Shively, owner of Corners Frameshop & Gallery and one of three Big Idea Pitch winners.

The winners included Shively, Best Insurance Agency owner Joshura Davis and Paw Purfect Pet Salon owner Paul Simon. The three received $10,000

for their efforts to be put towards the growth of their business. The process, which began in September, teamed the contestants up with a mentor who helped to develop a business plan that articulated a specific goal. The contest offered a valuable opportunity for the business owners to take a look at their businesses and make changes necessary in order to expand.

“Talking to some of the individuals who did not get as far in the process, they appreciated the process just for the opportunity to take a look at their business,” explained Davis. “Oftentimes, because we are trying to do the things that generate income, you don’t get a chance to take a step back and see what’s really going on. The opportunity to look at the market, look at the business and rethink my strategy felt great.

The funds will be targeted directly toward my idea.”

The participating businesses impressed the competition judges during their final pitch on Nov. 16 with their passion and durability through a tough time for businesses in the Ferguson area.

“Starting a business is a challenging

proposition and these entrepreneurs have shown that they have stamina and smarts,” said Kathy Siddens, Community Development Manager for U.S. Bank. “Their efforts are one of the many reasons we supported this business development competition from North County Inc.” See ‘BIG IDEAS’ page 2

Learn & Play

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Humbuggery

Movie: “The Danish Girl” FREE Online Subscription at mycnews.com

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Vol. 94 No. 51

In This Issue...

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Around Town Bellefontaine Neighbors presents Chief’s Citizen Citation Awards and more.

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Business Vantage sends gifts to hundreds of soldiers overseas and more.

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School Hazelwood students participate in Hour of Code and more.

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Learn & Play Hazelwood students participate in Hour of Code and more.

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Movie “The Danish Girl” features great performances that make it worthwhile.

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Sports Local sports with Gary B.

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Recipe All about desserts.

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What’s Happening

December 23, 2015 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

‘BIG IDEAS’

from cover

Rebecca Zoll, North County Inc. President/CEO explained that the contest’s process was a helpful step for the businesses and their communities towards growth and recovery.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our community and

helping them grow is critical to the stability of the area,” said Zoll. “NCI is thankful that through our partnership with the Regional Business Council and U.S. Bank that we were able to help these small businesses take the next step toward success.”

Trinity senior wins top honors at two prestigious competitions Trinity Catholic Senior Katie Leonard has had a successful start to the school year. In early September, Katie was chosen as a top recipient for the Do the Right Thing Award which is a community-wide program sponsored by the St. Louis County and Metropolitan Police. The program recognizes students in the Greater St. Louis community who go above and beyond to “do the right thing” and put others before themselves. This award was just one of the honors Katie received this semester.

In October, Trinity Catholic Physical and Health education teacher, Beth Clark, entered Katie and another Trinity student into the Domino’s Transformation Experience contest, a health awareness competition sponsored by Ad’Venture Capital. Katie’s ideas for health conscious improvements at Trinity won her top honors in the competition. As part of her award, Katie was flown to Ann Arbor, Michigan for an all-expenses paid Submitted photo visit to the Dominos Headquarters. Katie will work with DomTrinity Catholic Senior Katie Leonard won top honors in the Domino’s Transformation Experience inos top advisors to develop a budget and plan for improving contest. As part of her award, Katie was flown to Ann Arbor, Michigan for an all-expenses paid visit health awareness at Trinity. to the Dominos Headquarters.

Classifieds Over the Fence Joe Morice brings his unique views to the Community News.

Follow us on www.pinterest.com/mycnews

COMMUNITY VOICES Rebuilding black lives building a stadium

By Adolphus M. Pruitt, II The recession and financial crises have hurt the poor and socially marginalized populations the most. As we face the prospect of persistent black poverty we must consider the merits of various types of stimulus packages for St. Louis’ impacted populations. The fact of the matter is that by the end of 2008 African Americans had experienced the “greatest loss of wealth” in modern U.S. history. And while the rest of the country seems to be in financial recovery, the same can’t be said for the black neighborhoods in north St. Louis city and county. According to economists at the St. Louis Fed, these black neighborhoods are still suffering from the impacts.

Black community is hemorrhaging With anticipated population growth estimates showing that people of color will have the greatest growth rates in the St. Louis Region from 2010 through 2040 combined with significantly high percentages of disconnected black youths that don’t currently have jobs and are not enrolled in primary or secondary education; this is equivalent to the body hemorrhaging.

Black community in permanent recession The poverty rates in the black community are also growing, the rate of African Americans in high-poverty is double the rate of the next largest group. This results in a highly disadvantaged population due to the lack of access to a vehicle, which reduces access to education and work, and increases the rates of disconnected black youths and the unemployment rates.

Economic base theory Economic base theory holds that for black neighborhoods to prosper they must have income, which will be primarily derived from the wages that the people whom live there earn. If this does not happen they will continue to suffer from adverse outcomes

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such as poor education attainment, poor health outcomes, high crime, etc. What black neighborhoods need is what all of America needs: a stimulus package that will help average African Americans and those with the most insecure jobs. African Americans in these impacted neighborhoods would receive the most gains if their wages increased by at least 75 percent. And one sure fire way to do that, especially for disconnected black youth and ex-offenders, is the creation of high-paying construction jobs with workforce goals requiring their participation.

The construction of a new stadium; followed by the construction of a new NGA; both in north St. Louis would create roughly 8,150 construction jobs and $1.4 billion in construction wages.

With a solid “Workforce Inclusion Plan” targeting populations residing in the Promise Zone; coupled with stringent enforcement and monitoring could put $185 million in wages in their pockets; $44-63 million from stadium construction alone.

Stopping the hemorrhaging in the black community requires job creation, such as building stadiums. The enthusiasm around the inclusion plan for the $1 billion-dollar stadium would be well served with respect to insuring inclusion in the $4.7 billion currently being spent by the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District; along with city and state incentivized projects.

Adolphus M. Pruitt, II is President of the St. Louis chapter of the NAACP. 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 23, 2015

Remington students collect more than 1,000 shoes for water charity Three students in the Program for Exceptionally Gifted Students (PEGS) program at Remington Traditional School recently spearheaded a community service project to support the construction of safe water wells in remote parts of the world.

Third-grader Gabe Rupp and fifth-graders Owen Farra and Photo courtesy Pattonville School District Patrick WhitRemington Traditional School students are shown with some of eford led a shoe the shoes collected during a service project they spearheaded. drive at Remington to raise funds for the Shoeman Water Projects. Donated shoes are sold by the charity to raise funds to build water wells and water purifying systems in third-world countries. Remington students and staff collected nearly 1,100 pairs of shoes during the drive.

Gifted education teacher Dodie Logue said the community service project tied into what the students were learning in class.

“We have been studying ‘giraffe’ heroes, people who stick their necks out for others,” she said. “The students have identified issues where they want to make a difference and are developing their own community service projects designed to involve and educate their Remington peers. Most of the students have formed multi-age groups around their common interests. This group was interested in clean water or lack of water in places around the world.”

Other student groups are exploring important issues such as child labor, endangered animals, deforestation and dog rescue operations, she said.

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The importance of planning for the holidays with Alzheimer’s The holidays, with all their joy and excitement, as singing Christmas carols or helping with gift can pose challenges for family members affected wrapping.”

by Alzheimer’s disease. The very excitement and At times it can be challenging to maintain cerhubbub that the holidays bring can be difficult to tain family traditions that require a great deal of endure for family members and caregivers and, time and effort to plan and host, especially if the most importantly, for the person diagnosed with caregiver in the family is also the host of the holithis cruel disease. day events. “A large gathering or a fancy dinner It is estimated that 5 million people are diag- would place undue stress on the caregiver and nosed with Alzheimer’s in this country, but it the person with Alzheimer’s,” states Taylor. “Altakes only one diagnosis to affect a family pro- low yourself to recognize that things are okay if foundly. they are different from the usual holiday events.

“Alzheimer’s and other related memory impair- Flexibility is important in creating a less stressful ments affect many of our residents,” comments holiday.”

Susan Taylor, administrator of NHC Maryland It is also important to make sure that all family Heights. members are aware of the current condition of Caregivers are especially trained to provide the their loved one with Alzheimer’s. best care for patients who have been profoundly “More people will be visiting during the holiaffected by Alzheimer’s and require professional days which can change the established routine. care. Maintaining routine and a peaceful envi- If you know that someone will be visiting who ronment is key to making sure residents keep has been out of town or not been able to visit, calm and reassured, and the holidays can pose you may want to call them or send them a letter significant disruption in routine. The very ben- letting them know about changes to be expected,” efits of being surrounded with family and friends recommends Taylor. can often result in anxiety and upset, so it is important to plan for maintaining calm and routine during the busy holiday season.

“When a family member is the primary caregiver for a loved one diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, these caregivers cope with the holidays by creating balance,” relates Taylor. “It is normal for caregivers to feel happy but guilty, overwhelmed, frustrated, angry but thankful during the holiday season. It www.blackjackfire.org is important for caregivers to be able to celebrate with their family and friends and include the loved one with Alzheimer’s in activities that are meaningful but not overwhelming, such

Bellefontaine Neighbors presents Chief’s Citizen Citation Awards

Photo courtesy Bellefontaine Neighbors Bellefontaine Neighbors Chief’s Citizen Citation Award was given to Nashia Coffie, standing left of Bellefontaine Neighbors Police Detective Kim Tihen, Chief Jeremy Ihler, and surrounded by her family.

Bellefontaine Neighbors Chief ’s Citizen Citation Award is awarded to a citizen whose assistance to the police department was given without regard to personal welfare and had a positive bearing on the outcome of an incident and contributed to the furtherance of law enforcement in the community.

On Oct. 16 Talor Williams’ mother, Melanie Sims, had a headache and was acting in a disoriented manner. Talor recognized that her mother needed medical attention. Without direction, Talor called her grandfather for help, who in turn called emergency services for medical help.

It was later determined that Melanie Sims had

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an infection that could have been fatal without immediate medical attention. Talor’s cognizance and swift action saved her mother’s life.

On Oct. 18 an incident occurred in which Nashia Coffie’s family members were held at gunpoint. Nashia directed her younger siblings to escape the residence through a bedroom window.

Nashia then courageously placed herself between the gunman and the adults in the residence, in an effort to protect them. Nashia remained calm and decisive during an extremely dangerous situation. Her actions and incredible bravery saved the lives of her family.

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December 23, 2015 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

NCCU inducts 23rd church into organization North County Churches Uniting for Racial Harmony (NCCU) inducted its 23d Church into its organization recently at its Annual Covenant Renewal Ceremony at Florissant Presbyterian Church in Florissant. Its new church is “The New Creation in Christ,” formerly located in Maryland Heights and now makes its home in Ferguson.

This Church has been very active in working on the Ferguson situation and has participated in many forums of ecumenical churches in an attempt to improve conditions for African-Americans in Ferguson. This congregation is led by Pastor is Rev. Karl Reinagel and his wife Carla Reinagel of an almost all African-American church.

NCCU is guided by a general principle that “If God Loves Each Person Unconditionally, How Can We Not Do the Same.” Its Covenant is with each church and with God to bind its members together as a community of believers. It was established in 1998 and has continually been involved in promoting racial understanding and social justice primarily in North County, but it has been working with a group established by EHOC titled St. Louis Equal Housing Community Reinvestment Alliance. This Organization is working in the St. Louis Metropolitan area to improve financial services for low and moderate income individuals. It consists of 13 member organizations and has formal agreements with seven banks and informal agreements with several other banks to provide more service to the above individuals most of whom are African-Americans including some in North County and Metro East.

Since the Ferguson situation erupted, North County Churches Uniting for Racial Harmony and Justice has been working with mayors, police officials, clergy, and invited others to improve relations between the police and the African-American community. The police chiefs of Clayton and Alton, Illinois have been working as part of the invited members as well as the Police Chief of St. Louis County Police Department and other members of the St. Louis County Police Department’s North County Precinct.

President Rance Thomas said that “we are glad to welcome another congregation to our organization, especially one that has been so active in improving conditions in Ferguson and North County.”

Florissant marks 27th anniversary of Project Lift-Off Holiday Party

Photo courtesy city of Florissant Pictured is Mayor Thomas Schneider, Chief Tim Lowery, Ward 2 Councilman Tim Jones and some of the 550 fifth-eighth graders that attended the 27th Annual Project Lift-Off event.

The 27th Annual Project Lift-Off Holiday Party was held on Dec. 5 at the James J. Eagan Center which was started by Mayor Thomas Schneider back in 1989 when he was a councilman. The event is a drug free, alcohol free and tobacco free youth holiday party sponsored by the city of Florissant, Youth Advisory Commission and

D.A.R.E.; and again tickets were sold out.

At the event was a large crowd of fifth- eighth graders as they participated in many activities that were available to them; such as, ice skating, swimming and games. There was a DJ on hand that rocked the crowd while the kids enjoyed pizza and soda.

Pattonville College Academy celebrates “graduates” and business sponsors

Photo courtesy Pattonville School District Graduates of the Pattonville College Academy are shown with Pattonville educators and business partners who helped make the program a success.

A dozen seniors from Pattonville High School spent a week in August getting ready for college during Pattonville High School’s annual Pattonville College Academy. Students recently celebrated their participation in the academy with a reception with business partners who helped support the program and provide sponsorships and scholarships.

Each student who graduated from the College Academy received a $100 sponsorship from Pattonville’s business partners. Pattonville also supplied funds for an annual scholarship for a College Academy participant. Senior Scarleth Rivera-Nunez won this $500 scholarship through a drawing of all participants.

The Pattonville College Academy gives firstgeneration, college-bound students support

and knowledge about the college planning and search process. The academy covered goal setting, college resume writing, how to compare colleges, how to start the college search, college admissions, scholarships, financial aid, letters of recommendation, essay writing tips and ACT test-taking tips. On the final day of the academy, students visited area college campuses. Sponsors of the program were: Commercial Bank; Fred Weber, Inc.; James Hutchison Forth and Snyder, P.C.; John Patterson from Jostens; Ranken Jordan Pediatric Hospital; and SSM DePaul Health Center.

For more information about the College Academy or preparing for college, call Michelle Luraschi, college/career counselor, at 314-2138051.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • December 23, 2015

Graduate shares how a Pattonville elementary teacher changed his life Bernard Quinn graduated from Pattonville High School in 2002 and headed off to Southeast Missouri State University to play football and earn his college degree. But he credits his Pattonville fifth-grade teacher as being the reason he made it there and eventually went on to become a teacher, coach and professional football player.

It was two simple words from his teacher’s heart that made the difference: “Don’t quit.”

Quinn shared the story of how his teacher, Kim Heumann, set the course for how his life would turn out as part of the Missouri National Education Association’s (MNEA) #TeacherWordsMatter campaign. Heumann still teaches at Quinn’s elementary school, Bridgeway Elementary School in Pattonville. She’s a kindergarten teacher there and also serves as the president of the Pattonville National Education Association (PNEA). Heumann is also a 1978 Pattonville High School graduate. Quinn submitted his story about how Heumann “saved his life” by refusing to let him give up on himself.

He shared his story via TeacherWordsMatter. org and was one of 10 winners chosen by MNEA to earn $500 and have their stories highlighted.

Heumann surprised him during the filming of his testimonial, providing a touching, emotional reunion.

“It was the most amazing thing in my whole career,” Heumann said.

Quinn now works as a health and physical education teacher and assistant football coach at Cardinal Ritter College Preparatory High School in St. Louis. He is also a defensive line-

Photo courtesy Pattonville School Pattonville elementary teacher Kim Heumann is shown with her former student and Pattonville graduate Bernard Quinn.

man for the River City Raiders (formerly the St. Louis Attack), an indoor professional football team based out of The Family Arena in St. Charles. Quinn graduated from Southeast Missouri State University in 2006 with a degree in university studies, where he also played football. He was an All-State football player while at Pattonville High School.

View the MNEA video at: https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=wxDVpQk-BZ4&feature=youtu.be

Cookie Run/Walk draws record number of participants

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Republic offers Hazelwood residents holiday tree pick-up service Hazelwood residents who enjoy decorating a real tree for the holidays won’t need to worry about where to take it for disposal. Republic Services is offering them a Holiday Tree Pick-Up Program during the first two weeks in January 2016, (Jan. 4-16).

Republic will be picking up real Christmas trees placed at the street curb, free of charge.

Residents are instructed to place their real ChristPhoto courtesy city of Hazelwood mas trees at the curb by 7 a.m. on their regular yard waste day. If the tree is over six-feet tall, it will need to cut in half. The trunk of the tree should be facing the street. In addition, all tinsel, garland, and decorations must be removed from the tree for pick-up.

After Jan. 16, Republic will charge residents $10 per tree pickup. Residents will need to call Republic Services’ Customer Service Hotline at 636-947-5959 to schedule a pick-up appointment.

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Submitted photo Girl Scouts and their families, adult volunteers and community members participated in the Girl Scouts Go: Run for the Cookies Run/Walk on Nov. 28.

Girl Scouts and their families, adult volunteers and community members worked off their Thanksgiving meals by participating in the Girl Scouts Go: Run for the Cookies Run/Walk on Nov. 28. More than 1,300 participants braced the cold for the event, surpassing last year’s total by more than 100 runners and walkers.

“Health is an important aspect of Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri, and we are so pleased to offer this opportunity for both our girls and the community to engage in fun, active events,” said Bonnie Barczykowski, Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri CEO. “Girl Scouts Go is a great chance for families and friends to get out, be together and challenge themselves, all while helping our community.”

Awards were given to the first three men and women to cross the finish line, and the first three men and women in each age group. Travis Connelly, Stephen Rhodes and John McNulty finished first, second and third, respectively, in the five-mile overall male category. Nicole Beckman,

Danielle Prince and Ana Gil Diaz placed first, second and third, respectively, in the five-mile overall female category.

All finishers received a Girl Scout “cookie” medal, and participants who registered by Nov. 18 received a long-sleeve race T-shirt. The event also included a climbing wall provided by Upper Limits, a bounce house, s’mores, hot chocolate, a DJ, costume contest for groups and special warm up led by Z Total Body’s Lisa Huseman.

Booths sponsored by The Magic House, Missouri Botanical Gardens and Signature Medical Group offered educational and healthy activities for families and participants. Community service is woven into most Girl Scouts events, and participants were encouraged to bring packages of new socks to benefit United Way agencies; the organization collected 188 pairs to help those in need stay warm this winter. The annual event garnered strong community support, including sponsorships from Centene, Fox 2 and KPLR 11.

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Business

December 23, 2015 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Advertiser Profile: Stange Law Firm has quickly risen to a place of prominence in the community In a matter of eight years, Kirk and Paola Stange have spread Stange Law Firm into one of the most prominent in the region.

With a focus and a dedication to family law, Kirk and Paola and their well-equipped staff believe in commonsense solutions. And they believe in taking bold action when necessary to achieve the best possible results.

Whether facing a divorce, legal separation, paternity action, family violence or numerous other issues that affect families, the divorce attorneys and family lawyers at Stange Law Firm, PC, are zealous with a pledge to be there for their client from the moment they take your case until the moment it concludes.

Kirk Stange was on the list of Super Lawyers for Family Law by Missouri and Kansas Super Lawyers Magazine in 2015 and multiple attorneys from Stange Law Firm have been selected to the list of Rising Stars for

Family Law by Missouri and Kansas Super Lawyers.

An interesting aspect of being a client of Stange Law is when their services are retained, they provides access to the documents involved in your case through Your Case Tracker. At any time, you can login to view pleadings and motions that have been filed, letters sent, communications received from other attorneys among others.

This access to your case helps ensure that you always know exactly what’s going on throughout the process.

Giving back has always been at the forefront. Paola and Kirk Stange were recognized in 2013 and 2014 by Old Newsboys for their donations and sponsorship to Old Newsboys, which is an organization in St. Louis that awards grants to hundreds of charities.

If you believe you have a cause in which Stange Law Firm, PC might be interested in supporting, you can send the information to 1750 South Brentwood Blvd.

Submitted photo Paola and Kirk Stange are the founders of Stange Law Firm.

at Suite 401, St. Louis, Missouri 63144 or at info@ stangelawfirm.com.

The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely upon advertisements. Kirk Stange is responsible for the content. Principal place of business 120 South Central Ave, Suite 450, Clayton, Missouri 63105.

Vantage sends gifts to hundreds of soldiers overseas Vantage Credit Union employees and members recently collected over 300 items to send to U.S. troops overseas. Among the items donated were a Keurig coffee pot, food, magazines, footballs, card games, warm socks, gloves and many other items.

The care package was assembled for A Soldier’s Wish List, an organization the credit union learned of through the St. Louis USO at Lambert-St. Louis International Airport. The USO chose an Army Chaplain’s troop serving over 500 military personnel in Afghanistan for Vantage to “adopt”.

“It’s never fun to be away from your family for extended periods of time, especially around the holidays,” said Nicole Nill, Credit Union Insurance Agency Assistant Manager. “What better way to boost their spirits than to send unexpected gifts during the holidays?”

Vantage demonstrates its commitment to the credit union philosophy of People Helping People by contributing money, time and knowledge to those who need it most. Each year, Vantage gives back to the community in a number of ways, including donating thousands of dollars to worthwhile charities, awarding 20 $1,000 college scholarships to high school seniors, and providing free financial education presentations and materials to local students.

360 IRA wishes you a Merry Christmas!

Look for our article in next week’s paper For more information on financial and retirement strategies, give us a call at 360 IRA. You can contact our office in St. Charles at 636-896-4052 or by email at info@360ira.com

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Employees from Vantage Credit Union’s CUSO, Corrin Thornton, Lisa Dirnbeck, Nikki Nill, Pamela Mondaine, Peter Brendel.

Sunmitted photo

Saint Louis Crisis Nursery awarded $10,000 from Coca-Cola and Shop ‘N Save Saint Louis Crisis Nursery was awarded $10,000 in gift cards from Coca-Cola and Shop ‘N Save in support of the Nursery’s commitment to the prevention of child abuse and neglect and providing emergency intervention, respite care and support to families in crisis.

“We are thrilled to play a part in supporting the great service that Saint Louis Crisis Nursery provides to families in our area” stated Eric Hymas, President of Shop ‘N Save.

“Coca-Cola is proud to partner with Shop ‘N Save to support Sunmitted photo the Saint Louis Crisis Nursery which offers area families critical Coca-Cola’s Angela Owen and Shop ‘N Save’s Linda Markus with Crisis Nursery CEO DiAnne assistance” said Angela Owen, Mueller.

Coca-Cola Account Executive.

Louis Crisis Nursery CEO. “We are so thankful that Coca-Cola and Shop The Saint Louis Crisis Nursery is an organiza‘N Save are supporting the work that we are do- tion committed to preventing child abuse and neing. We value and appreciate their commitment glect by offering real help and real hope to families to our community!” said DiAnne Mueller, Saint in crisis.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • December 23, 2015

Hazelwood students participate in Hour of Code

Hazelwood students taking part in the Hour of Code.

The week of Dec. 7, several schools in the Hazelwood School District took part in the Hour of Code. The Hour of Code is a one-hour introduction to computer science, designed to show that anybody can learn the basics of computer science. The program is a global movement that reaches students in 180 plus countries.

Amanda Ehll, Cold Water Elementary media specialist, used this week to take her secondthrough-fifth-grade media classes to the computer lab to participate in the Hour of Code.

“Every student should have the opportunity to learn computer science,” said Ehll. “It helps develop problem-solving skills, logic and creativity.

By starting early, students will have a foundation for success in any 21st-century career path.”

Photo courtesy Hazelwood School District

To participate in the Hour of Code, no experience is needed. All coding activities are selfguided, and the lessons are for every age and experience level.

“Computer science drives innovation throughout the U.S. economy,” said Matt McClellan, special areas curriculum coordinator for HSD. “Currently, there are over 600,000 open computing jobs nationwide and last year only 38,000 computer science students graduated into the workforce.”

The Hour of Code is organized by Code.org, a public non-profit dedicated to expanding participation in computer science by making it available in schools, and increasing participation by women and underrepresented students of color.

HSD STEM Extravaganza showcases high-tech courses and career options for students

Leopoldo Yoshinari Alves Moreira, a senior majoring in Information Sciences and Computer Technology at Harris-Stowe State University, represented the school at the 2015 HBCU-Innovation Summit held in Silicon Valley, Nov. 18-21. Sponsored by the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), the second annual conference is igniting a national movement to drive innovation, entrepreneurship and access for students of color in the technology and science fields.

Photo courtesy Harris-Stowe State University Moreira, who participates Leopoldo Yoshinari Alves Moreira, a senior in the HSSU coding club and majoring in Information Sciences and Comserves on an extracurricular re- puter Technology at Harris-Stowe State Unisearch team, prevailed during a versity, represented the school at the 2015 highly competitive process. He HBCU-Innovation Summit held in Silicon Valley. was selected by UNCF to attend the S.T.E.M. conference, which introduces hundreds of students to cutting-edge leaders at tech companies, such as Google, Yelp, EBay, Pinterest, Uber, Pandora and Intuit. During the four-day conference, Moreira was able to connect with students from colleges and universities around the United States and share ideas and creative alternatives to overcome community problems using the newest technologies available in the world.

“I am very happy I got to represent my school and to meet so many people with the same energy and passion for pursuing technology careers,” Moreira said. “I am extremely grateful to HarrisStowe State University for giving me the opportunity to gain some great insights about entrepreneurship directly from people who created innovative companies that are household names. This was a chance that you get once in a lifetime.”

Moreira, who is a defender on the HSSU Men’s Soccer team, volunteered for a mock interview with engineers at mobile payment company Square. After his very favorable performance, he was encouraged to apply for an internship. He and other program participants toured and met CEOs, co-founders and engineers from several Silicon Valley companies.

“There are so many rules, restrictions and other barriers to foreign students working in U.S. companies,” Moreira said. “However, during my time at Silicon Valley, I could see for myself that it is possible. Meeting and actually engaging with leaders from these big companies that I have dreamed of working for has shown me that I can do it!”

The Hazelwood School District will host its annual STEM Extravaganza on Jan. 23, 2016, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Hazelwood Central High School.

our families to talk with representatives from educational institutions and businesses to learn what it takes to be successful in these areas.”

At the STEM Extravaganza, attendees will participate in demonstrations and hands-on activities for all grade levels, exhibits, robotics, speakers, college representatives and more. Community partners scheduled to attend include: Ameren Missouri, Boeing, Washington University in St. Louis, BJC Healthcare, U.S. Navy, Danforth Plant Science, St. Louis Community College, FIRST Robotics, Project Lead the Way, HSD Math and Science, the University of Missouri-St. Louis, and many more.

“The STEM Extravaganza exemplifies the District’s value of forming partnerships with parents and community members to ensure the success of all students,” McClellan said.

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Harris-Stowe senior demonstrates impressive skills at summit in Silicon Valley

Photo courtesy Hazelwood School District

The Hazelwood School District (HSD) will host its annual STEM Extravaganza on Jan. 23, 2016, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Hazelwood Central High School at 15875 New Halls Ferry Road in Florissant. The event is free and open to the community.

The STEM Extravaganza is a showcase of educational opportunities for students in pre-k through 12th grade in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).

“We encourage students, teachers, families and members of the community to attend the STEM Extravaganza to gain additional exposure to STEM activities, careers, and STEM related degree programs available,” said Matt McClellan, HSD curriculum coordinator for special areas. “Businesses are in need of candidates with strong skills in the STEM areas. This is an excellent opportunity for

School

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Learn & Play

December 23, 2015 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

By Cindy Moore

Moore On Life

Humbuggery It was bound to happen. It seems this time of year the haters are on the rampage as the war against Christmas once again rears its ugly head. That master of mayhem, the Grinch himself, is doing his best to wreak havoc on our holly jollies.

This time, an atrocity slipped in on Facebook. As I scrolled through my newsfeed while catching up on the latest cat videos, it appeared right before me in all its blasphemous gory glory—a gingerbread house!

Now you may ask yourself how a harmless little gingerbread house covered with every candy confection imaginable could possibly cause such holiday pain and anguish? One word—vegetables!

The second I laid eyes on the image, it was as if I were staring into some kind of alternate universe. I im-

SUDOKU:

mediately knew something was not right because in place of being covered in lemon drops, lollipops and gumdrops, a hot mess of cauliflower, cucumbers and carrots were used.

Gone were the frosted cookie shinFill in the blank squares in the grid, making gles, the licorice windows and the candy sure that every row, column and 3-by-3 box corn chimney. Instead, some deviant had includes all the digits 1 through 9. switched in a celery roof top, carrot stick siding and cucumber windows surrounded by a pathway lined with broccoli trees.

“Eat healthier this season,” the caption under the veg-house said. “Blather,” I said!

They once tried this same trick by mixing fruit in with cake, and fruitcake was an enormous success…said no one ever!

It’s especially annoying when I only get this one month out of the year to splurge on my diet. Well, there is Thanksgiving, which

means two, except if you think about Halloween, that’s three.

And then there’s February, which includes Valentine’s dinner and candy.

That’s still only four to indulge.

But, coming right on its heels is March and April and Easter, which means ham and lots of leftover ham. Of course there’s Memorial Day in May which always requires feasting preparatory for June because the summer picnics begin. Afterwards is July and August with summer barbeques and the yearend feasting for Memorial Day; then comes September with its fall harvest bounty, which somebody’s gotta eat.

So there definitely is January, when I place myself on a strict diet up until my stomach gurgles, or I realize I have 15 Christmas gift cards to my fave restaurant – The Bacon Binge.

Now a bacon gingerbread house…that has possibilities!

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

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

Crossword Puzzle Theme: The Holidays

See solution on page 13

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ACROSS 1. Post-employment insurance 6. T-cell killer 9. Many focuses 13. Finno-____ language 14. Cassius Clay 15. Noted Impressionist 16. Russian pancakes 17. And not 18. Oxygen-containing compound 19. *Spiked holiday libation 21. *a.k.a. Timothy Cratchit 23. Not a regular teacher 24. Animal waste 25. ____ y pimienta 28. *Hanukkah dreidel has Hebrew letter on each one 30. 1/100th of a ruble 35. “____ to perfection” 37. Habitual twitches 39. Wood turning device 40. Back of neck 41. Like the north face?

43. Inmate’s weapon 44. Nashville player 46. Edible tubes 47. Prima donna’s numbers 48. Not digital 50. Wide river valley 52. Break a commandment 53. No parking ____ 55. *Done during Christmas dinner 57. *Pan-African celebration 61. *Festival of ____ 64. Relating to birth 65. Knot-tying words 67. Shoelace bunny ears 69. Skip the big wedding 70. Jean-Claude ____ Damme 71. Bar, legally 72. Familiar deciduous trees 73. Hurricane center 74. Easily irritated DOWN 1. Chicago baseballer 2. Check out 3. Place for mutinous sailor 4. Saturn’s feature, pl.

5. Just one of acini 6. *Done to ornaments 7. International Labor Organization

8. Taste for fine objects of art 9. Like Jimi Hendrix’ Lady 10. “Put a lid ____ ____!”

11. Ghana monetary unit 12. Found on a list 15. Golden Horde member 20. Newspaper notices 22. Octopus’ fluid 24. Do like Pinocchio 25. *One “chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf” 26. “Encore!”

27. Former Greek coin 29. Flighty person 31. Aaron Rodgers’ move 32. Community spirit 33. Popular cook-off dish 34. *Macaulay Culkin’s character 36. *Look for a good one on Black Friday

38. “____ ____ good example” 42. Mushroom caps 45. Hose attachment 49. India’s smallest state 51. Aerie baby 54. Like Forrest Gump or C-3PO? 56. Not these 57. Wounded ____ Massacre 58. Hit this when tired?

59. Tiny piece of anything 60. Takes a siesta 61. Like TV’s famous ranger 62. *Marines’ holiday donees 63. Dick and Jane’s dog 66. *Boxing ____ 68. Melissa McCarthy’s 2015 role

See answers on page 13

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • December 23, 2015

Movie

“The Danish Girl”

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By Steve Bryan

‘The Danish Girl’ features great performances that make it worthwhile Though Eddie Redmayne turns in yet another exceptional performance, “The Danish Girl” actually belongs to Alicia Vikander, the beautiful actress and female lead in this film from Tom Hooper. Vikander, a double Golden Globe nominee this year, plays Gerda Wegener, the compassionate and frustrated wife of a man who believes he is a woman inside.

Redmayne plays Einar Wegener, a well-respected Danish painter. Though happily married to Gerda, he discovers his passion for cross-dressing when he poses for his wife. Adopting a new persona called Lili, Elbe the painter goes out more frequently wearing a dress and makeup.

Over time, Lili becomes the dominant personality.

Based on real-life events, “The Danish Girl” tells a fascinating and heartbreaking story about an early gender reassignment case. Eddie Redmayne displays his incredible acting ability by playing two distinct characters. As Einar, Redmayne is a dignified masculine presence in Paris. After slipping on a dress, though, the actor becomes the intriguing and alluring Lili.

The person who walks away with the movie, however, is Vikander. The actress captures Gerda’s initial frustration at not breaking through in the art world. After she has her husband pose for her as Lili, the Paris art community can’t get enough of her work. At home, however,

Gerda sees her husband slipping away from her as Lili takes over.

Vikander’s expressive face and body captures Gerda’s tormented married life. She loves her husband dearly and wants to do the right thing for him. As he takes on a female personality, Gerda still wants to hold onto him. Though frustrated and fearful, she never stops loving her husband.

Vikander’s performance here even tops her exceptional work in “Ex Machina.” In that science fiction thriller, she played an artificial intelligence housed in a female robotic form. Vikander has been nominated for Golden Globes for “The Danish Girl” and “Ex Machina,” and she has an excellent chance of winning both awards.

Set in the 1920’s and 30’s, “The Danish Girl” also looks back at the early history of gender reassignment surgery. The film shows that many specialists considered men like Einar to be mentally ill and in need of treatment. In one horrifying scene, Redmayne’s character even submits to radiation therapy to cure his impulses.

Though slow-moving, the performances of both Vikander and Redmayne make “The Danish Girl” a worthwhile movie. Though gender reassignment has become more common, director Tom Hooper’s film explores a time when the process was exceptionally dangerous on both a medical and personal level.

“The Danish Girl,” rated R for some sexuality and full nudity, currently is playing in theaters.

“The Danish Girl” photo courtesy of Artemis Productions Born and raised in South St. Louis, Steve Bryan is now based in Anaheim, California, and has been allowed access to movie and television sets to see actors and directors at work. Though his writing has taken him far from St. Louis, Steve is, at heart, still the same wide-eyed kid who spent countless hours watching classic movies at neighborhood theaters.

www.VillaAtRiverwood.com www.treesbywoody.net

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December 23, 2015 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

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Sports you see with Gary B...

Rams give fans early Christmas present before heading west On primetime TV last Thursday, the St. Louis Rams outlasted the Tampa Bay Bucceneers 31-23 at the Edward Jones Dome. This was their second win in a row and the last home game of the 2015 season. The team leaves Christmas Day for Seattle to get ready for the Dec.r 27 game and will stay on the west coast as they play the 49ers on Jan. 3. May visit the wineries or look for houses while on the west coast???

Highlights included: • The last time the Rams won on Thursday night football was in 2012.

• QB Case Keenum completed 14-of-17 passes for 234 yards and two touchdowns.

• TD passes to Kenny Britt for 60 yards and Tavon Austin.

• Austin now has 10 touchdowns this season (five receiving, four rushing, one punt return) and is tied for fourth most touchdowns in the NFC. • RB Todd Gurley had 21 rushes for 48 yards and one touchdown.

• Gurley reached 1,023 rushing yards this year and now ranks third in the NFL. • The last Rams RB to have at least 1,000 yards was Steven Jackson in ’12. The last Rams rookie RB to reach 1,000 was Jerome Bettis ’93.

• Cornerback Trumaine Johnson’s interception marks his sixth of the season-the third most in the NFL. • Johnson led the team in tackles with nine (seven solo).

• Running back/Kick returner Benny Cunningham notched a career-long 102 yard kickoff return which is tied for the second longest in franchise history. Tony Horne had returns of 102 and 103 yards. * Great looking uniforms last Thursday?!?!

Men’s wrestlers of Lindenwood win invitational in Indy The wrestling team recently took the Greyhound Duals hosted by the University of Indianapolis. The invitational consisted of the Lions, Indianapolis who ranks No. 16 in NCAA Divi-

Sports

sion II, and Olivet (Michigan). The Lions currently rank No. 13.

Winners included Jared Mestas in the 141 weight match and in the 157 weight match; Terrel Wilbourn dominated his opponent with a 19-5 major decision.

The Lions also had two decision victories from Kyle Jolas and Dillon Archer from the 165 and 197 weight matches respectively.

After adding the points up, the Lions prevailed over the Greyhounds 22-19.

The Lions continued play against Olivet in the last duel of the round robin tournament. Wilbourn followed his major decision victory with a 21-5 technical fall dominating display. In the 149 weight match, Greg Jacquez pinned his opponent at the 1:19 mark.

The Lions won five decisions from Danny Swan, Hunter Haralson, Jolas, Zulkhuu, and Archer. The Lions picked up their second and final victory with a final score of 26-15. * Drew Morris / Graduate Assistant for Sports Information La Russa and Carpenter to be honored at Rascal’s games The River City Rascals will open up their 2016 season with two big names that are associated with the St. Louis Baseball Cardinals.

Tony La Russa will be honored on May 21 and Chris Carpenter will be at the stadium June 25.

Both were instrumental in bringing St. Louis their 10th World Series Crown.

Go to www.RiverCityRascals.com for more information. * Tickets will go faaaaast Tune into Your Health Plus Radio Show, Every Saturday at 8 a.m. on KSLQ 104.5 FM

For more information go to www.YourHealthPlus.info.

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

Gary Baute, a St. Louis native, may be educated in business but he lives and breathes sports. As a fan or an athlete, Gary is all sports all the time. He hosted a radio sports program on KFNS, emceed the River City Rascals’ inaugural season, and co-hosted SportsRadioSTL.com, among many other activities.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • December 23, 2015

Recipe

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All about desserts Holiday treats you can make with the family A staple of the holidays, flavorful desserts bring a seasonal spread together like nothing else, and whipping up those desserts is a perfect time to spend some quality time with your family. From cookies that are sure to quickly disappear to a classic cheesecake and a berry-inspired twist on a holiday favorite, an array of tantalizing desserts can keep your family and friends around the dinner table long after the main course has been devoured, and give your family a new activity to bond over.

Made to Vanish: When it comes to holiday baking, it’s often the simplest ingredients and classic recipes that resonate best with everyone. One of which is Quaker’s Vanishing Oatmeal Raisin Cookies – a family favorite that’s been featured under the lid of the Quaker Old Fashioned Oats canister for 20 years. A kitchen staple for 100 percent whole grain baking needs, the Quaker Oats canister is also celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. Find more oats recipes and learn more about the iconic oat canister at quakeroats.com.

Vanishing Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Prep time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 8 minutes | Makes: 4 dozen

A Holiday Classic Sure to Please: Be sure to remember around the holidays that special can be simple, and recipes do not need to be complex to be guest-worthy. Keep your kitchen stocked with a few key ingredients that can be used in a variety of dishes, such as Philadelphia Cream Cheese, which is perfect in this rich Classic Cheesecake and other desserts, but it also lends a creamy texture to appetizers and main dishes. Find more tips and recipes to make your holiday entertaining sparkle at creamcheese.com.

Classic Cheesecake Prep time: 20 minutes | Total time: 5 hours, 45 minutes (including refrigerating) | Makes: 16 servings

Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs 3 tablespoons sugar 1/3 cup butter or margarine, melted 4 packages (8 ounces each) Philadelphia Cream Cheese, softened 1 cup sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla 4 eggs 1 cup canned cherries Directions: Heat oven to 325 F. Mix graham crumbs, sugar and butter; press into bottom of 9-inch springform pan.

Beat cream cheese, sugar and vanilla with mixer until blended. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed after each until blended. Pour over crust.

Bake 1 hour, or until center is almost set. Run knife around rim of pan to loosen cake; cool before removing rim. Refrigerate 4 hours.

Top with canned cherries, if desired.

A Holiday Treat Straight From Your Freezer: For a festive twist to your holiday sweets, look no further than your freezer. Aside from a bright, joyful color, frozen red raspberries’ sweet and tart flavors allow them to complement and enhance a wide range of ingredients. They also boast the most fiber and the lowest natural sugar content compared to other berries. This Raspberry Greek Yogurt Bark is sure to warm your loved ones’ hearts with the taste of the holidays. Find more recipes worth sharing this holiday season at redrazz.org.

Raspberry Greek Yogurt Bark Recipe courtesy of NourishRDs.com

Ingredients: 2 cups plain, reduced-fat (2%) Greek yogurt 1 lemon, zest only 2 tablespoons honey 1 cup frozen raspberries 1/2 cup shelled pistachios 1/4 cup slivered almonds Directions: Line small baking pan with aluminum foil.

In medium bowl, combine first 3 ingredients. Stir until well incorporated.

Add berries, pistachios and almonds to mixture. Fold in until well incorporated. Spread mixture in baking pan and place in freezer for about 2-3 hours, or until hardened.

Once hardened, remove bark from pan and either cut or break up into pieces. Allow to thaw about 5 minutes before eating.

Notes: Store remaining bark in freezer. You can experiment with any ingredients you have on hand, such as frozen cherries with dark chocolate chunks, frozen blueberries with unsweetened flaked coconut or dried cranberries with pecans.

Ingredients: 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened, plus 6 tablespoons 3/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar 1/2 cup granulated sugar 2 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional) 3 cups Quaker Oats (quick or old fashioned, uncooked) 1 cups raisins

Add combined flour, baking soda, cinnamon and salt; mix well. Add oats and raisins; mix well.

Directions: Heat oven to 350 F.

Drop dough by rounded tablespoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheet. Bake 8-10 minutes, or until light golden brown.

In large bowl, beat butter and sugars with electric mixer on medium speed until creamy. Add eggs and vanilla; beat well.

Cool 1 minute on cookie sheets; move to wire rack. Cool completely. Store tightly covered.

What’s Happening

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December 23, 2015 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

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

Events Jan. 3: Fitness class open house The Florissant Parks and Recreation will hold an open house for some of their fitness classes and programs from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. This is an opportunity to come up and meet the instructors and learn more about different programs offered. Instructors will be there offering demos of their classes and be there to answer any questions. Demos will be offered for Aikido, Aquacize, Dance, Deep & Shallow Water Aerobics, Deep Water Running, Judo, Slimnastics, Yoga and Zumba. From 3 – 5 p.m. there will be a free open session in the pool. Proper swim attire is required for all aquatic programming and open session. Open House is free to attend and is available to both residents and non-residents. Open House will take place at the James J. Eagan Center. For questions please contact either Ryan Harrison at rharrison@ florissantmo.com or at 921-4250 or Kelly Snider at ksnider@florissantmo. com or at 839-7670.

Jan. 14: Networking series To help women stand their ground, overcome obstacles and achieve resolutions in workplace and personal conflicts, Brown Smith Wallace will host “Conflict Resolution Strategies for Women” at The Bridge from 7:30 – 9 a.m. at Hilton Frontenac. The Bridge is a networking series for professional women of all career stages. Brown Smith Wallace launched the series in 2014 to create a forum for women to congregate and learn about key business and life issues while having fun.

The Jan.14 event will be the fifth in the series. To learn more about The Bridge, visit bswllc.com/thebridge.

Jan. 21: STEAM Expo The Ferguson-Florissant School District will hold its fourth annual STEAM Expo from 5-7 p.m. to showcase the district’s programs and community resources related to science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM).

The STEAM Expo will be held at McCluer South-Berkeley High School at 201 Brotherton Lane and will feature special presentations and interactive displays related to STEAM. Among the attractions, attendees will be able

to see robots in action, observe the stars in a Planetarium and make fruit smoothies using electricity generated by a stationary bicycle. The expo will also feature information on college and career paths in STEAM. Representatives from colleges and universities, technical schools and community colleges will offer information on STEAM-related courses of study.

Schools to be represented include St. Louis Community College, Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville, Sullivan University, Truman University, the University of Missouri-Kansas and others. Manufacturing and construction unions will be present to speak with attendees about STEAM-related trades, and recruiters from the armed forces will be on hand to discuss STEAM-related jobs.

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

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

Tuesdays: TOPS (Take off pounds sensibly) From 9:15 - 10:30 a.m. located at John

F. Kennedy Center/Henry Koch Ctr., Howdershell Rd. at Charbonier Rd., Florissant. For more info contact Paul or Connie McConnell, 314-831-5476.

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

Those interested in membership are invited to attend.

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

Wednesdays: Are you interested in losing weight?

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

Every Wednesday: Bingo Morning at Florissant Elks Lodge #2316 Florissant Elks Lodge #2316, 16400 New Halls Ferry Rd. in Florissant.

Doors at 7:30am, games begin at 9:30am. For more information, call 314.921.2316.

Bridgeton Trails Library Branch Programs: 3455 McKelvey Rd., St. Louis, 314.994.3300. Story Time: Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. 9 months to 2 yrs.

Room 1 (Lap Time); Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. Ages 3–5. Room 2; Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. Ages 3–5. Room 1.

Florissant Senior Citizens’ Bingo Clubs: 314.839.7604.

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

Every Friday: Our Lady of Fatima #4429 Knights of Columbus Bingo

6:45pm, Knights of Columbus Hall, 1216 Teson Rd. in Hazelwood. For more information call 314.731.9330 Every 3rd Friday of the month: Bingo 2pm, Life Care Center of Florissant, 1201 Garden Plaza Dr. For more information, call 314.831.3752.

Last Saturdays: Writers Workshop: 10am - 1:30pm, Baden Liberary, 8448 Church Rd., 314.388.2400 Sundays: Meat shoot Come and enjoy the meat shoots at American Legion Post 444 located on 17090 Old Jamestown Road between Sinks Rd and Lindbergh starting at noon until dusk every Sunday - rain or shine. Great meat prizes awarded.

Every Sunday: Tours at Old St. Ferdinand Shrine #1 Rue St. Francois St., Florissant, 1 – 4pm, through October. Donations accepted. Docents needed. 314.921.7582, vicray01@aol.com Church Tuesdays & Thursdays: Chapel of the Cross Lutheran Church GriefShare Support Group Tuesdays from 2 - 4pm and Thursday from 6:30 - 8:30pm, 11645 Benham Rd., 314.741.3737 Health

Now: SilverSneakers Senior Wellness Program at the Maryland Heights Centre A fun, energizing program that helps older adults take greater control of their health by encouraging physical activity and offering social events. A Silver Sneakers membership includes access to the city’s Fitness Centre with 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.

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

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 314822-2066 or visit WWW.NicoteneAnonymous.org

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

Every Monday-Friday: Evening Front Desk Volunteers Needed 4-7pm, Christian Hospital, 1225 Graham Rd. in Florissant. For more information, please contact Lee Shields at 314.653.5032.

Crisis Nursery: Committed to preventing child abuse and neglect, the Crisis Nursery provides short-term, safe havens to children, birth through age 12, whose families are faced with an emergency or crisis. Care is available year-round and serves families throughout the greater St. Charles region. 24-hour helpline: 314.768.3201. Or 636.947.0600, www. crisisnurserykids.org

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

BREWERS TRUE VALUE

915 Jungermann Road St. Peters (Just South of Willot Rd.) M-Sat 8-8, Sun 9-6 636-477-7799

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.

www.LaserLipoAndVeins.com

Diabetes Basics: 314.344.7024 for info or 314.344.7220 to enroll.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • December 23, 2015 Nutrition Education: SSM DePaul registered dieticians can help you make sure your diet is right for you, 314.344.6157.

Smoking Cessation Classes: Free ongoing 8-week sessions, 866.

SSM.DOCS to register or for more information.

Group at Christian Hospital To register call 314.747.9355

SSM DePaul Wellness Center: Classes available on strength training, nutrition and smoking cessation, 314.344.6177

Tuesdays: Alcohol and Drug Information Meeting Christian Hospital Building 2, Suite 401, 6:30 – 8pm, 314.839.3171, free and open to the public.

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

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

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

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

Volunteers Needed at Christian Hospital: Call 314.653.5032 SSM DePaul Healthy Happenings 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.

Diabetes Self-Management Training: Call 314.344.7220

SSM St. Joseph Hospital Healthy Happenings 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, 636.949.7159 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 for Women Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse 12:30 - 2pm, 320 Forsyth Blvd., Clayton, 314.968.3477.

Third Saturdays: Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group At Delmar Gardens North, 4401 Parker Rd., Florissant, 9am, 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 Missouri Veterans Home, 10600 Lewis & Clark, St. Louis, 1pm, 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, 636.755.3034 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 – 9pm, 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 Wednesdays: STEPS Schizo-phrenia Support Group 6:30-7:30pm, 314.839.3171.

What’s Happening

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 314.344.6030 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 636.916.9664.

Gateway to Hope Program The Gateway to Hope Program arranges care for individuals diagnosed w/breast cancer who are either uninsured or underinsured and reside in MO. Gateway to Hope serves as a breast cancer lifeline for those who do not qualify for government sponsored programs & are unable to afford treatment. If you or someone you know

SUDOKU answers from page 8

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has been diagnosed w/breast cancer & cannot access treatment call Gateway to Hope at 314.569.1113 or www.gthstl.org.

Every Wednesday Take Off Pounds Sensibly Group Take Off Pounds Sensibly meets at Christ the King Lutheran Church, 414 S. Church St., St. Peters. Weigh-ins at 8:30 a.m. Business mtg at 10 a.m.

Call 636.397.1727 or 636.272.4995 for more info.

Every Tues. 6:30–8 p.m. Chemical Dependency Mtg. Christian Hospital. 314.839.3171.

Every Tues.: 9–10:30 a.m. TOPS Meetings Take Off Pounds Sensibly. John F. Kennedy Community Center, 315 Howdershell Rd., Florissant. 314.921.7582.

Every Tues.: 5:30–6:30 p.m. Free Pilates Class for Cancer Patients & Families Bring own mat. Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hosp., 150 Entrance Way, St. Peters.

636.921.9920.

CROSSWORD answers from page 8

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Follow the se tips to kee p your family and pets safe from mosquitoes .

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Mosquito Sea son

By Shelly A.

FIT!FUN!

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o busy, e it gets to to dies, befor is the time corner. La for you. Now ovement and take a day impr se for selffun in the set a cour and to have s self-awareness n will find the answer process! Wome health, family, career, ns on at the 2007 to questio more and , image, fashion – Fun, Fit, and FabuFair at St. Women’s ay, Nov. 17, Saturd for . lous – set unity College Charles Comm rship in partne the college St. Joseph sented by ey and SSM take with JCPenn -Hospital West, will StuHealth Center a.m.-3 p.m. in the 8:30 Campus, 4601 place from on the SCC ille. dent Center in Cottlev Mall Drive the area Mid Rivers throughout reWomen from day of education, for a will gather and fun, includfood, prizes, fashion show laxation, eminars, a than 50 ing nine mini-s and more sere speaker, and keynot ts and ing produc vendors display vices. a continental seminars and exhibits and a fashion tickets include urse cial $20 VIP speaker, and full-co e in show, keynot Grappa Grill and catered by luncheon st, exhibits, the breakfa consecutive addition to For the fourththe lunchtime seminars. ey will host ages year, JCPenn with styles for all fashion show,

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Missouri is home to about mosquitoes.

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

Community Health and ment states the Environ it is only the female mosqui that “bites” and she does to so blood meal needed to lay to obtain the viable eggs.

While mosqui more than drive toes usually do little the family doors to the from the outindoors, they carriers of are sometim dangerous es disea may contrac t malaria, yellowses. Humans gue, and encepha fever, denlitis; and dogs heartworm. may get Most of these the exceptio diseases, with n of canine heartwo human encephalitis and rm, have been eliminated fairly well from Health officials the entire United States. said outbrea to borne encepha ks of mosqui litis have periodic occurred in ally Missou “Canine heartwori. rm is an problem, with endemic costs to animal ers escalatin owng each warned. “Effecti year,” health officials measures includinve mosquito control g the elimina swamp areas, tion of to keep road and maintenance efforts ditches clear have done and much to control water free mosquito for disease transmission.” toes: floodwa ter and perman If you believe mosquitoes. ent water Floodwater ing problem you have a mosquito breedmosqui their eggs on damp soil where toes lay sure, please on your property, but will occur are not call the Departm flooding or, in some munity Hea ent of Comcases, above water line lth and the the in tree holes, Environme tainers, or nt. Ofartificial con- ficials will make an inspecti other small on and evaluabodies of water. tion appointment, When rain and then recomm fills these areas (ARA) and floods the possible solution. end a - National St. Charles in the larval County resident Friendship stages, broods greatest can upload s have the prevention of mosquitoes Day is Aumethod fingertips. a two-mintoes are mainly Proper maintens right at their gust 5 and - propert of the pest variety, ance of the ute video y the first to is the and are first step toward in light of emerge in the describ ing mosquito spring months prevention. All trash Many of these a recent and refuse that . mosquitoes how a close ers and may are strong flycould survey that range up to propert friend lights ten miles or more drained y should be adequately i n d i c ate s up their life graded and , to prevent a blood meal ..........3 w any o to m pools lay ........... en water that may to www.ra or puddles r story............. eggs. of last place high Cove County mosqui ten days or longer. diance ribtheir eggs directly ....................6 to control v a l u e ider....

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31, ves with a trip to New Explore St. York City. in October. .................12 See MOSQUITO No Olay is hosting City . . . . ............

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

Up Your Life. contest www.radiancer contest rules, visit Chamber. .Gary . . . .Baute. . . . . . . ” .. 5 ........ ibbons.com.

Women ts with Religion Spor .

‘Light Up Your invites Wom Life’ Contest en to Honor Friendships

Our publications use a combination of online subscription, Huneke Publications, Inc. offers four publications: two weekly newspapers direct mail, home delivery, and voluntary circulation methods.

Movie Talk and two news magazines, each Voluntary refers to a circulation method where readers covering a unique market segment “voluntarily” choose to pick up a publication to read. This within St. Louis County and St. method is powerful because locations are carefully chosen Charles County. As a member of and newsstands are monitored for 100% pick up. Community the Missouri Press Association, all News has developed a network of over 650 convenient of our publications feature verified locations including every major supermarket chain. Our circulation and an earned credibility voluntary method is powerful for three reasons: among our peers.

1 QUALITY READERS A voluntary reader is an interested reader, actively outside of the home, in stores, seeking out information about the community 2 TOTAL UTILITY 100% pick up assures no wasted COMMUNITY NEWS COMMUNITY NEWS - St. Charles County papers. Every paper reaches an interested reader, yielding a First published in 1921, Community News is the longest Published weekly with a powerful circulation combination of full value for the entire print run. published weekly newspaper in the St. Louis metropolitan newsstands, home throw, and online subscription.

3 EXPANDING SET Every print run reaches a unique area and has established a large audience of loyal readers.

The St. Charles County edition features countywide coverage group of readers, Community News circulates across a broad geographic region including the cities of: St. Charles, St. Peters, Cottleville, because the majority with newstands, home throw and online subscription.

Weldon Spring, O’Fallon, Dardenne Prairie, Lake St. Louis, of voluntary readers and Wentzville, plus Troy. are occasional readers.

Over time, these unique CROSSROADS MAGAZINE OUR TOWN MAGAZINE This monthly lifestyle magazine covers the fast-growing groups add up are to aavailable Published Our Town islocations, direct mailed toincluding all business every Our FREE publications in over bi-monthly, 500 convenient Dierbergs, Schnucks and Shop ’N Save.

Wentzville and Lake St. Louis areas. It is direct mailed with addresses in its service area, plus online subscribers. It is a readership size about additional copies available in newsstands, unique business-to-business magazine featuring chamber of three times greater plus online subscribers. commerce news plus articles on the economy, technology, than the print run. human resources, and marketing. a grand tic entry into al beauty basas well as automa g – a person prize drawin JCPenney. y of ket courtes emiants nine mini-s fair gives participfrom including inforcare, nars to choose e, fitness, breast exercis plastic surmation on nence, and inconti ement and urinary personal improv fitting and bra gery. Other topics include for holiday awareness “dos” “ups” and and the “spirit wardrobe, p made easy, hair, makeu

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E-Mail: cnews@ and runs until - 2007 at 11:45 a.m. 8:30 a.m. page 17 Wonderland at Christmas in the lunTAINMENT Doors open Film Group’s See ENTER feature duringigh-energy Electra in Yari and Carmen h A special a e Kattan b l l Chris lin. year wi cheon this Dan Cough by author 3 presentation FAIR page N’S See WOME

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Over the Fence

By Joe Morice

The “Reality Weight-Loss Diet” To the advantage of our insatiable advertising industry, diet concepts may be one of the larger moneymakers. We are a nation of fat people, to hear experts tell it.

Seeing my profile in the mirror offers depressing evidence. I truly believe that when I quit smoking years ago I lessened the lung cancer risk, but would instead die from the resulting obesity.

When I became overweight, besides losing my chest to my waist, I noticed an added factor of lower self-esteem. Perhaps it’s caused by the lack of self-control and prematurely wearing out my refrigerator door hinges. In any event, dieters have become great targets for the pharmaceutical industry’s Madison Avenue ad campaigns and other modern brainwashing methods. The profits must be huge. Diet drugs and supplements added to their cash cows because we have waistlines like cows. The shame of it makes me want to hide my head in my stash of pizza coupons.

The pharmaceutical industry, perhaps the largest exploiter of human suffering, has been blasting their ads for every variety of pill and potion since long before “I Love Lucy” became reruns.

If it wasn’t pain relievers of various labels, it was some sort of feel-good elixir that cured even more ills than Old West snake oil for improving one’s health between shoot-outs. I remember Serutan sponsoring a 50s TV show. It made our neighbor lady feel wonderful. Containing 22 percent alcohol, it was no surprise except to her husband who found her swilling the stuff while singing soprano off-key with their Beagle.

I believe we’ve become a nation of pill-poppers, thus making the pharmaceutical industry wealthier than

pharaohs. They can now buy their own congressmen, which actually may be true considering Congress passed laws against buying prescription drugs from Canada. After decades of constant barrages of advertising we’ve become pill junkies. It opened the door to being taken to the cleaners by modernized snake oil

salesmen who offered us diet pills, some of which bordered on dangerous.

In the ongoing blame game about who is responsible for our national health care dilemma, the pharmaceutical industry may be one of the biggest stinkers. The profiteering has risen to the oil industry’s level of “obscene.” A bottle of name-brand aspirin or acetaminophen may possibly cost the consumer many times production costs. Excuses are offered that research and development costs are very high. The costs of changing names and pill shapes to cancel generic drug offerings weren’t mentioned.

The amusing aspect of this bulging dilemma is the hundreds of diet books written and sold by everyone from Doctor Atkins to Jane Fonda. The “Atkins Diet” was quite popular until he died of a heart attack. I’ve tried that one myself, albeit I never gave in and bought the book. Paying for it would prove I was concerned about being overweight and drop my selfesteem even further down than my overtaxed belt buckle. I borrowed it instead.

Did it work? Funny you should ask. It seemed easy enough until I discovered that it would only work if I exercised. Silly me. Here I was thinking I found a diet miracle. As usual, I didn’t read the fine print. I still had to go out and waddle around the block.

The diet equation remains; if food intake exceeds calorie burning, it’s blimp city. The books, tummy-tucks, pills, and tonics are great for keeping publishers, surgeons and pharmaceutical executives in Bentleys, but you would probably lose more weight walking to and from the places that sell these flab cures than by trying them. Unless, of course, there’s a Dairy Queen along the way...

Joe Morice is Community News’s blue-collar philosopher.

He was born and raised in Missouri and spent most of his childhood on a farm and adulthood operating heavy equipment. He has no formal training as a writer, unless a lifetime of writing about any and everything counts.

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

Editor’s note: Joe Morice is currently recovering from illness and has taken some time off. Until his return we will run some of Joe’s favorite columns.

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