CN: July 7, 2021

July 7, 2021

The gift of a bike

Around Town

COMMUNITY VOICES

By Dr. Nick Holekamp Pg. 3 ‘Board & Explore St. Louis’ summer fun kickoff. Pg.4

School

UMSL students tour part of Ag Coast of America. Pg.7

Features Photo courtesy All Nations Church On June 26, in collaboration with University City School District and Helmets First of Columbia, Illinois; All Nations Church hosted a University City Bike Giveaway event for pre-selected recipients at 7860 Olive Blvd.

Community comes together for the University City Bike Giveaway to give 50 deserving students a brand new bicycle

By Charlotte Beard While many churches make an impact in the community by giving food to those in need, a church in University City decided to take community giving a step further on June 26. In collaboration with University City School District and Helmets First of Columbia, Illinois; All Nations Church hosted a University City Bike Giveaway event for pre-selected recipients at 7860 Olive Blvd.

“Driving around University City, I started to notice a lot of kids walking to get to places and remembered how much of my childhood was spent on my bike,” stated Chris Paavola, Pastor of All Nations Church. “Since one of the values of All Na-

tions Church is to be ‘a church that prospers the city,’ I started to think about how a bike giveaway could help us do just that! So, I reached out to the School District of University City and asked them if they could identify 50 students we could give ‘the bike they need for the summer they deserve.’ In a matter of moments, the wheels were quite literally ‘in motion’ to make a Bike Giveaway! One week after we put a call out for donations, donors from All Nations and Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in Brentwood raised the $10,000 we needed.”

Paavola added that donations from the metropolitan St. Louis community are included in the funds raised which put them over the $10,000 needed.

According to Paavola, Superintendent

Sharonica Hardin had strong desires for helmets being included in the bike giveaway and stressed that she cares deeply about student safety. Jade Jameson, one of All Nations Church’s team members, contacted Helmets First, an organization of which she was aware. Helmets First donated all the helmets given with the bikes.

Each of the 50 children that were selected to receive a bike would also receive a lock and bicycle safety training provided by the University City Police Department.

“The School District of University City chose which students would receive a bike based on need, academic progress, or allaround perseverance during a challenging

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Around Town

July 7, 2021 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Get your event or good news published in Community News: email your information in calendar and article formats to editor@mycnews. com.

Photos courtesy Gary Spiller with The School District of University City On June 26, in collaboration with University City School District and Helmets First of Columbia, Illinois; All Nations Church hosted a University City Bike Giveaway event for pre-selected recipients at 7860 Olive Blvd.

‘BIKE’ from cover school year,” stated Paavola.

The school district also supported the event in assembling the bikes and conducting the helmet fittings. Paavola states

the district insured each child would receive their bike and helmet, whether they attended the event.

Paavola states that the bikes were pur-

CONCERT REVIEW:

chased in bulk to be shipped from WalMart because the team wanted kids to experience the joy of a new bike.

By Scott Shy

The Big Top is back Our city’s own iconic Big Top in Grand Center and Circus Flora venue is back with variety. In the spirit of a true variety show, “The St. Lou Revue” featured a host of local St. Louis artists and performers. The Kranzberg Arts Foundation (KAF) and the Big Top have completed a rigorous program to become Missouri ArtSafe-certified.

As we all inch our way back to public events, it is so refreshing to experience thrills and laughter in community.

I am always impressed with aerial artists, which included Mariel A La Mode performing and singing and Laura Lippert performed hanging by her hair. Circus Harmony’s St. Louis Arches provided exceptional acrobatics and we were introduced to Chauncy Kroner who has a unique style of hoop diving.

Circus Flora’s own “Clowns on Call,” provided their own humorous take on CDC regulations and the “Purina Incredible Dog Team” demonstrated their flying disc

skills to the awe of the crowd. “Mostly Tap” brought their tap dancing flair while Elliana Grace demonstrated hula-hoop expertise.

When Kellin wasn’t hosting he was juggling or making us concerned for his safety. Beautiful soulful music was provided by singer Ahsa-Ti Nu. The balancing act by Thom Wall was one of the best I have ever seen. He balanced a candelabra on a balloon on a knife that he held in his mouth, then popped the balloon and caught the candelabra on the knife! As with any Big Top show, the behind-the-scenes team that hold it all together is deserving of much credit.

Also coming soon to the Big Top on June 25 through June 27 is the Emerson Spring To Dance Festival 2021.

Please mark your calendars to join Circus Flora this fall when they gather the best circus acts from around the world on Oct. 7 through Oct. 31, for “The Trial of the Century” in the Big Top!

Photo by Scott Shy

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • July 7, 2021

Around Town

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Covenant House Missouri receives $1 million gift to support expanding program operations Covenant House Missouri’s Chief Executive Officer, Jessica Erfling, announced that Covenant House Missouri has received the largest single private gift in the organization’s history. Supporters Tim and Robin Wentworth have donated $1 million to Covenant House Missouri in support of the organization’s campus expansion.

Tim Wentworth serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Evernorth (Express Scripts and Cigna). Tim and Robin are expanding their support of Covenant House Missouri at a time when homelessness among youth is skyrocketing. The Wentworths have supported the Covenant House Missouri mission since 2015, and have co-chaired Sleep Out: Executive Edition, the

organization’s largest fundraising event.

“The entire Covenant House Family is overwhelmed with gratitude. Since the pandemic began, our waitlist for services has more than doubled. A gift of this magnitude will make it possible to continue to provide the best level of support for the young people living and thriving at Covenant House,” Erfling shares.

“We are honored that Tim and Robin have generously increased their support of our mission as our organization grows. This transformational investment in young people will allow us to work with more youth on their journey from homelessness to hope.”

Erfling made the announcement internally at a Covenant House Missouri all-staff meeting on cam-

COMMUNITY VOICES

pus in March. Tim Wentworth attended the meeting and received a standing ovation from staff, who could feel the deep belief the Wentworths have in the work they do every single day. The gift will support ongoing expansion projects at Covenant House Missouri’s campus, detailed here.

“We fully support Covenant House Missouri’s mission and operations,” said Tim and Robin. “The staff works around the clock to provide holistic services at a critical time in young peoples’ lives. We have confidence in the leadership and direction of the organization and believe that this gift will support young people’s ability to live fulfilling lives and be contributing members of the community.”

By Dr. Nick Holekamp

Ranken Jordan opens one-of-a kind magical outdoor therapeutic playground Spending time outside in nature offers proven health benefits for the mind and body.

Ranken Jordan Pediatric Bridge Hospital has taken that concept to magical heights by creating a new Activity Canyon right in its own backyard complete with hobbit holes, animal tracks, log steppers, a wheelchair accessible merrygo-round, bongo drums, whispering trees, a tea pot garden and more. These whimsical features inspire curiosity and exploration to motivate children during therapy and play.

Ranken Jordan cares for children with the most complex medical conditions and more than 60% of the children are connected to a ventilator. The new nature-focused play area allows kids to be kids because it can be used by all children, whether they are on a ventilator, or are in a wheelchair, laying on a bed, or using a walker or crutches.

Activity Canyon opens the door to nature’s toolbox as therapists work with children in playful ways outside to improve function and develop skills and strength. Families and team members have full access to the area, too.

Expanding nature’s toolbox McCarthy Building Companies built Ranken Jordan’s latest facility addition in 2018.

The expansion included an outdoor space with an accessible turf ball field and a six-hole

putting green as part of Phase I. McCarthy also built the hospital’s newly opened outdoor nurses station, the first in the world associated with a hospital. It seamlessly connects Phase I to Phase II of Activity Canyon that was revealed May 25.

Sheltered under a butterfly-shaped canopy, the fully equipped central nurses’ station includes multiple electrical outlets to plug-on or recharge essential equipment to keep children safe when they are away from their rooms. It also includes a ceiling fan, an infrared heater, an outdoor sink and a refrigerator so kids can get drinks, take medications or receive treatments without disrupting their outdoor play time.

Partnering with McCarthy, SWT Design, a St. Louis-based landscape architecture firm, planned and designed the new Activity Canyon in close collaboration with Ranken Jordan’s therapists and other team members as part of the hospital’s Care Beyond the Bedside model that get kids out of their rooms every day for a better recovery.

Discovering new abilities Children can follow pathways through Activity Canyon that lead to various “therapy zones” with inclusive play equipment, a sound room, sensory gardens, nature wonders and more.

Along the paths, children discover hidden treasures such as stamped animal tracks and leaves native to Missouri, a roller slide, tunnels that accommodate wheelchairs, and a talk tube where children learn cause and effect.

This hillside area overlooks a basketball hoop, a merry-goround for all abilities, and various sizes of swings. Dotting the landscape are limestone boulders and log steppers in varied heights to challenge children’s stepping abilities.

Another popular area in Activity Canyon is the sound room of oversized percussion instruments. Children and adults can’t resist pounding the bongo drums and striking the colorful xylophone and hanging chimes with a mallet to create their own outdoor concert.

Nestled in a quieter shaded area are tables designed for horticulture therapy, art or other activities. Nearby, large orange saucer planters are spaced to allow children to garden from all sides of the saucers, whether children are in a wheelchair or a bed or are using a walker or crutches. Those cheery saucers will become pizza, salsa and teapot gardens with the help of therapists and the Missouri Botanical Gardens.

For the past 10 years, the Missouri Botanical Garden has partnered with Ranken Jordan to provide year-round week-

ly horticultural therapy for children. Their involvement will expand even further with multiple garden areas available within the new space.

The Activity Canyon gardens and roses around the hospital are a special nod to Ranken Jordan’s founder, Mary Ranken Jordan, who believed in the value of gardening and outdoor activities to heal children.

In 2021, Ranken Jordan is celebrating its 80th anniversary of the “MRJ Way.” Stimulating the senses Throughout Activity Canyon, a wide variety of native and ornamental flowers, bushes and trees attract important pollinators and birds. All are carefully chosen to stimulate the senses and provide beauty and wonder.

In one area that Dr. Suess himself may have created, a Contorted Filbert tree branches twist and turn into whimsical corkscrews. Even the leaves curl. Nearby is a weeping Norway Spruce that looks like it fell right off the Grinch’s runaway sled.

At the edge of the play area, the wind rustles the leaves of an Aspen tree grove to create the soothing sounds of a gentle summer rain.

Then there are the showoffs, like the tricolor beech that some call the pink lemonade tree because of its striking two-color leaves. Their blooming sidekicks in the diverse

landscape include American Yellowwoods with hanging strands of pea-like flowers and flowering cherry trees adorned with soft puffs of pink and white.

Yet all live in perfect harmony in this wondrous garden and play area at Ranken Jordan set to the happy sound track of birds singing and children laughing.

Generosity inspires progress and gratitude The newly expanded Activity Canyon at Ranken Jordan is possible thanks to the generosity of Margaret and Richard Riney Family Foundation.

The impact of the Riney family’s generous, heartfelt gift will be felt for years to come as children enjoy the healing benefits of nature and play in Activity Canyon. We’re forever grateful to the Riney family for inspiring children at Ranken Jordan to make more progress every day and to just have fun.

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

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Aound Town

July 7, 2021 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

‘Board & Explore St. Louis’ summer fun kickoff

Submitted photo Pictured (left to right) is Taulby Roach, president and CEO of Bi-State Development, and Kimberly Cella, executive director of Citizens for Modern Transit, handing out “Your Tickets to Board & Explore St. Louis” educational booklets and bucket hats at the Civic Center Transit Center.

Citizens for Modern Transit (CMT), Metro Transit and St. Clair County Transit District (SCCTD) launched the “2021 Board & Explore St. Louis”

campaign to highlight all the area attractions accessible via the region’s safe, reliable and robust public transit system and to encourage people to get

out and explore all the region has to offer this summer.

To encourage exploring via public transit, the partners are providing educational resources to help residents and visitors learn what attractions can be accessed from various Metro Transit centers. These resources include a “Your Tickets to Board & Explore St. Louis” booklet that will be available to area residents and customized oversized artwork that will be displayed at the various transit centers. The artwork and booklet feature a QR code, allowing individuals to access walking directions from the transit centers to area attractions and enter to win gift cards to these and other area hot spots over the summer months.

A free “Your Tickets to Board

& Explore St. Louis” booklet can be obtained at the MetroStore (801 Pine St, St. Louis), the lobby of Belleville Transit Center (718 Scheel Street, Belleville, Illinois), Citizens for Modern Transit (911 Washington, Ste. 200, St. Louis) and in an array of local businesses, attractions and hotels (a complete listing can be found at www.cmt-stl.org). Those interested in having one mailed to their attention can email their name and mailing address to info@cmt-stl.org. It is also available for digital download at www.cmt-stl.org. Each booklet includes a voucher that can be redeemed for one free ticket to explore via Metro Transit.

Individuals utilizing public transit between now and Aug.

31, can go to www.cmt-stl.org or scan the QR code on the “Your Tickets to Board & Explore St. Louis” booklet or the artwork at the transit centers to enter into prize drawings that will take place at random over the coming months. Prizes include gift cards to various attractions accessible via transit.

Throughout the campaign, CMT’s (@CMT_STL) Metro Transit’s (@STLMetro) and SCCTD’s (@SCCTransit) social media channels will feature informational posts, videos, interviews, filters, prizes and other content highlighting how to use the local transit system to access area attractions and get involved in the “2021 Your Tickets to Board & Explore St. Louis” campaign.

“The region has a robust, world-class public transportation system that can get people where they need to go – including many of St. Louis’ hottest area attractions,” commented Kimberly Cella, Executive Director of Citizens for Modern Transit. “This campaign is designed to reinforce this fact and educate individuals on some of the many area attractions accessible via transit.”

“Transit is a safe, convenient and affordable option for individuals and families to travel around the region this summer,” said Taulby Roach, President and CEO of Bi-State Development. “We are looking forward to welcoming riders back to MetroLink and MetroBus as they take part in this fun initiative.”

Managing Director for St. Clair County Transit District Ken Sharkey added, “Southwestern Illinois has an abundance of restaurants and entertainment venues, and public transit provides seamless access from both sides of the river.”

The “2021 Board & Explore St. Louis” campaign provides a valuable opportunity for the partnering organizations to interact with riders, strengthen relationships and reinforce their collective commitment to a safe, comfortable, customer-focused transit experience.

To learn more, visit www.cmtstl.org, www.metrostlouis.org or www.scctd.org.

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • July 7, 2021

Senior Living

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Gateway Arch Park Foundation to host free, virtual blues at the Arch Concert Series in August

Grab your dancin’ shoes, St. Louis, and join Gateway Arch Park Foundation for its sixth annual Blues at the Arch con-

cert series, presented by Emerson, every Friday in August.

Featuring new virtual performances each week, this popu-

lar end-of-summer celebration pays tribute to St. Louis’ storied blues history while showcasing the talents of hometown and national artists.

Produced by Gateway Arch Park Foundation in partnership with the National Blues Museum and the National Park Service, Blues at the Arch will stream free of charge on Gateway Arch Park Foundation’s website (archpark.org) and Facebook page (facebook.com/ gatewayarchpark).

“Blues at the Arch has become a signature event for Gateway Arch Park Foundation, and we are thrilled to continue to share the love and experience of blues music with our community,” said Ryan McClure, executive

Still In This Together:

director of Gateway Arch Park Foundation. “We are thankful for our partners in helping us recognize and pay tribute to our city’s beloved blues heritage.”

Blues at the Arch begins Friday, August 6, 2021. The entertainment schedule includes: • Aug. 6: The Lady J Huston Show • Aug. 13: Jontavious Willis • Aug. 20: Toronzo Cannon and The Chicago Way • Aug. 27: Mz. ShA “Emerson is proud to continue to support Blues at the Arch, which fuses two things that St. Louis is known for: blues music and the Gateway Arch,” said Akberet Boykin Farr, vice president of diversity and social responsibility at Emerson. “To-

gether with Gateway Arch Park Foundation and the National Blues Museum, we look forward to bringing the community together virtually to enjoy the best of blues music.”

Blues at the Arch is a great event for all ages and highlights the importance of music in our daily lives.

“Blues music is the heart of our city, and we can’t wait for this opportunity to honor and share the history and future of blues in St. Louis!” said Erin Simon, deputy director of the National Blues Museum.

For more information about Blues at the Arch, visit archpark.org/bluesatthearch.

By Vicki Bahr

All those simple black lines were paralyzing Last night was the final straw, when I pulled the address book out of the kitchen drawer and the rubber band holding it together snapped, spilling its pages across the floor. The binding has been broken for at least ten years, and along with the address pages and notable dates inside, school pictures and birthday invitations, thank you notes and hand-lettered Grandparents Day greetings fell to the floor.

I found the address I needed and immediately went to the bedroom drawer where I’d stashed the perfect new address book my daughter gave me several Christmases ago. She had dealt with the old book a time too many herself and begged me to get rid of it once and for all.

Enough was enough. I’d just finished transferring doctor appointments and upcoming dentist visits to the brand-new calendar. Time to sit down and fill in the new address book, too. But before I could get past the first few pages, carefully moving names and addresses, birthdays and anniversaries, all the simple black lines got to me.

Aunts and uncles, grandparents and parents, even a friend or two, no longer with us, with

a simple black line crossing through their information, real only because they were in my old book. My grandmother’s birthday alongside twin nephews born on the same day, addresses that were so familiar which now belong to strangers.

It stopped me in my tracks.

So many lines, so many endings, so many losses. The new book was perfect, and the binding cracked with its newness as I turned the pages. But how could I simply pass over the memories in the interest of making things new and clean and pertinent? Those old addresses were filled with laughter and parties, the birthdays ways to remember the most important people in our lives. There were our kids’ college dorms and first apartment addresses, the birthday of a friend I’d known since sixth grade and her several envied cross-county moves as I’d stayed in the same starter home we bought forty years ago.

But then I realized there were so many new additions in the book, too. Grandkids and great nieces and nephews galore, wedding anniversaries on both sides of the family, lives new and renewed, all waiting their mention in the new address

book. Life as it is, with all its sorrow and elation. And suddenly, I could look beyond the black lines of loss to the newest November birthday of a treasured great-niece.

I caught the unmistakable smile of my Mom as she urged me on. “That was then, this is now. Embrace it.”

And I knew that I could.

But the old book isn’t leaving any time soon. It simply has a new address, on the top shelf of my spare bedroom closet, to be resurrected on a long snowy afternoon. Those simple black lines still hold a place in my heart.

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.thevillaatriverwood.com

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Business

July 7, 2021 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

American Medical Response launches ‘Earn While You Greater North County Chamber of Commerce supports St. Louis Learn’ program for emergency medical call takers Leading trauma professionals from Washing- regions. This is the first time the program has Community College’s Prop R

ton University School of Medicine and St. Louis University Hospital joined American Medical Response (AMR) for the launch of the first Earn While You Learn Academy for emergency medical call takers in St. Louis.

American Medical Response, part of the Global Medical Response family of companies, launched the award-winning Earn While You Learn program as a way to ease the financial transition for those wanting to become Emergency Medical Service professionals. The innovative program allows for full time, on-the-job training while taking the necessary certification courses to become Emergency Medical Dispatchers. The academy class participants will be full-time employees at AMR St. Louis Communications located within the St. Louis Abbott EMS operation.

AMR is also offering a $2,500 sign-on bonus for academy participants, to be paid out over the first year of employment.

“AMR’s innovative Earn While You Learn program makes a career in EMS more accessible and will allow for more St. Louis residents to launch a new, rewarding career while getting a paycheck,” said Dr. David Tan, M.D, FAAEM, FAEMS, Medical Director of Abbott EMS and Division Chief of EMS at Washington University School of Medicine. “After the tumultuous time our country has endured with COVID-19, this program that offers paid on-the-job training for frontline workers is the innovative antidote we need.”

The Earn While You Learn program has graduated over 400 Emergency Medical Service professionals in the Northeast, Midwest and Gulf

Northwest Views: In a change that will align its employees, donors, and volunteers of its fourstate service region under a single identity, Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center (MVRBC) has changed its name to ImpactLife.

In announcing the name change, Chief Executive Officer Mike Parejko stressed the importance of having a single, common identity.

“We are proud of our strong history and the reputation we have developed under our previous names, but the time has come to bring all of our team, donors, and volunteers under a shared identity that emphasizes the impact of our work on the communities we have the pleasure to serve.” said Parejko.

The not-for-profit community blood center is the blood provider to 120 hospitals in Illinois, Iowa, Missouri and Wisconsin, including more than two dozen hospitals across the St. Louis metropolitan region. Hospitals include: SSM Health DePaul, SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s, Mercy, St. Luke’s,

been dedicated to training Emergency Medical Call Takers. The program has made a career in emergency medical services more accessible, ensuring that a candidate is financially stable while training.

“After a year riddled with packed hospitals and a public health emergency, it is more evident than ever that our emergency call service professionals play an imperative role in saving lives when seconds matter,” said Helen Sandkuhl,Administrative Director-Nursing, EMS, Disaster, Community & Trauma Outreach at SSM Health St. Louis University Hospital “The Earn While You Learn program is an exciting opportunity to pay individuals while they train and create new jobs in the community.”

“At a time when the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have led to massive job losses, we are thrilled to support opportunities for St. Louis residents to kick start their careers while getting paid,” said Brandi Henson, Global Medical Response East Region Director of Communications. “We encourage anyone with a passion for helping people to apply to the Earn While You Learn program today to help save a life tomorrow.”

Earn While You Learn received a national honor from the American Ambulance Association in the best Employee Programs Category.

Other programs have been launched in Alabama, Mississippi, Connecticut, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, Ohio and Tennessee.

For additional information or to apply please visit www.amr.net/careers

The Greater North County Chamber Board of Directors have voted to support St. Louis Community College’s Prop R. Prop R will be on the Aug. 3 ballot to fund necessary updates to facilities and programs for the college and its students. Prop. R proposes an eight-cent tax levy increase for St. Louis Community College. If approved, the additional investment for the owner of a $150,000 home would be around $1.90 a month. This would be the first tax levy increase for the college since 1984.

“St. Louis Community College is an essential part of our community,” said Richard Dorsey, Chairman of the Greater North County Chamber of Commerce. “An educated workforce is necessary for economic development.”

Prop R would provide funding to help the St. Louis region rebuild the local economy following the COVID pandemic by updating career training programs and facilities to support job growth in critical industries including healthcare, information technology, financial services, biotechnology and manufacturing. It would also provide real-world learning environments where the technology in the classroom matches the tools students will use in the workplace. It will focus on providing educational programs and services to the underserved and minority communities in the St. Louis Region. Prop R will also repurpose underutilized space to meet the needs of today’s students (many of the college’s facilities were built almost 60 years ago) and create new and modern spaces. Lastly, it will keep tuition low and affordable for students, as well as minimize student debt. The college strives to keep education affordable for unemployed or underemployed workers needing training and retraining for the high wage jobs of today.

“St. Louis Community College is a key player in educating and supporting our workforce, and they continue to help the region complete globally and are an invaluable resource,” said Venus Martz, President of the Greater North County Chamber.

ImpactLife: new name… same mission SSM Health St. Clare, SSM Health St. Joseph’s- St. Charles, SSM Health St. Joseph’s – Lakes St. Louis, SSM Health St. Louis University, SSM Health St. Mary’s, St. Luke’s Des Peres.

ImpactLife’s mission is to provide world-class blood products and services to communities in need. Blood donations are often used to help treat patients with cancer, victims of trauma and patients undergoing major surgeries. The blood collected locally makes a direct impact on the St. Louis community.

One such patient Lorraine Stippec, a professional dancer based in St. Louis, received more than 100 units after suffering serious injuries in a shooting in 2017. Following extensive treatment and physical / occupational therapy, Rain has returned to a career in dance, choreography and public speaking.

Blood components are in constant use year-round, but the rate of blood donation decreases during the summer months. This will be especially true this summer with travel plans and the world

opening back up. Support is needed now more than ever. Please consider donating this summer at a local community blood drive or at one of the ImpactLife donor centers.

LOCAL LOCATIONS: Crestwood Donor Center 980 Watson Rd Crestwood 314-966-6800 St. Peters Donor Center 4891 Mexico Rd Suite 100 St. Peters 314-291-4741 Earth City (Administration, Lab and Distribution) 3420 Rider Trail South Earth City 800-747-5401 To thank those who come to give blood at this critical time of year, everyone who registers to donate at an ImpactLife

By Jason Kempen Donor Center or mobile blood drive will receive a voucher to redeem for a $10 gift card to the recipient’s choice of Amazon.com, Dunkin’ Donuts, Lowe’s, Target, Starbucks, or Walmart. ($10 gift card voucher provided through July 11.)

For more information, see www. bloodcenter.org and find us @impactlifeblood on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and Snapchat.

Jason Kempen is the Community Development Advocate for ImpactLife Blood Center in Earth City. He promotes the mission of the blood center through community events and media engagement and leads an Associate Board of volunteers from the St. Louis area.

For more information on how to get involved with the blood center, go to bloodcenter.org or email Jason at jkempen@impactlife.org.

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 • July 7, 2021

School

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Four North St. Louis County teachers receive grants from WGU Missouri Four K-12 teachers from throughout the North St. Louis County areas of Jennings, Ferguson and Florissant have received grants totaling more than $1,880 through WGU Missouri’s “Fund My Classroom” initiative. The grants will be used to fund innovative classroom projects that foster learning in new, unique ways.

The four teachers who received the funding from the North St. Louis County area include: Dr. Dianna Isaac-Johnson, a music teacher at Northview Elementary School in Jennings, who received a $600 grant to purchase musical instruments for her “STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) Over the Digital Divide in Music” program, which will encourage her 600 students in grades K-6 to learn about technical fields in music while developing the skills to read, compose, write and produce music.

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Tasha Jordan, a science teacher at Johnson-Wabash sixth-grade center in the Ferguson-Florissant School District in Ferguson, who received a $732 grant for a hands-on science activity, where students get to act as lead scientists, studying the spread of germs and bacteria and determining which cleaning supplies are most effective against them. With the grant, she is purchasing a molecular model biochemistry kit, a bacteria science kit, a digital microscope and accessories for her students to complete this project.

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Amanda Joyce, a fifth-grade teacher at Lusher Elementary in Florissant (Hazelwood School District), who received a $300 grant to purchase diverse books for her classroom library so that her students can read about characters in uplifting story lines who look like them.

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Therese Meres, a Special School District ELA and Special Education teacher at Hazelwood Northwest Middle School in Florissant, who received a $250 grant to create a calming corner – a safe space for students who need a break – in her classroom.

The innovative classroom projects were among 52 in Missouri chosen by WGU Missouri to receive funding. The nonprofit university issued a call in March for K-12 teachers across the area to nominate proposed classroom projects for the opportunity to receive full or partial funding through its “Fund My Classroom” initiative. More than 400 nominations were received.

Most grants were awarded during Teacher Appreciation Week, which ran from May 3 – 7.

“We were happy to read about all the amazing projects our teachers have planned and are excited we can bring so many to life through our ‘Fund My Classroom’ initiative,” said Dr. Angie Besendorfer, Chancellor of WGU Missouri. “This past year has been a challenging one for both teachers and students as they were

UMSL students tour St. Louis riverfront that is part of the Ag Coast of America

Submitted photo

(From left) Cassie Bianculli, a graduate student in the Supply Chain and Analytics Program at the University of Missouri St. Louis (UMSL); Mary Lamie, Executive Vice President – Multi Modal Enterprises at Bi-State Development and head of the St. Louis Regional Freightway, and Semir Cejvanovic, a digital marketing and supply chain management student at UMSL are pictured aboard the Tom Sawyer Riverboat on a tour of the Ag Coast of America during FreigthWeekSTL 2021, which was held May 24- 28. Participants in the tour got a close up look at the St. Louis region’s freight assets and opportunities, as tour narrators highlighted the bridges, terminals, port facilities and other infrastructure that contributes to the St. Louis region’s recognition as the most efficient inland port in the nation. Bianculli and Cejvanovic were among several students from area supply chain programs invited to take part in the tour to see this unique aspect of the supply chain and logistics industry.

Submitted photo Dr. Dianna Isaac-Johnson, a music teacher at Northview Elementary School in Jennings, received a $600 grant to purchase musical instruments for her “STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) Over the Digital Divide in Music” program.

forced to adapt to new styles of teaching and learning.

This initiative is an opportunity for WGU to celebrate teachers and thank them for their dedication to educating and positively impacting their students, while enhancing learning for students – both in and out of the classroom.”

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What’s Happening

July 7, 2021 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

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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

RECURRING EVENTS

July 17: Recycling event

Weekdays: Food pantry volunteers needed

Spectrum Ecycle Solutions will be accepting all electronic and technology devices for secure and eco-responsible recycling from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. at 6100 Natural Bridge Rd. east of Jennings Station Rd. Items accepted include all office and home technology-related devices and electronics such as computer monitors, keyboards and hard drives.

Additional items include any size flat screen TV/monitor, any size tube or console TV and big screen TV’s. Visit the Spectrum Ecycle web site for a complete list of all accepted items.

July 21: Public speaker

In 1984, Darryl Burton was wrongly convicted of a murder in St. Louis. He was proven innocent and exonerated after serving over 24 years in prison.

Darryl travels the globe to share his story and powerful message of hope and forgiveness and will be speaking at SunRise Church (7116 Twin Chimneys Blvd. in O’Fallon) at 7 p.m. This is a free event but RSVP’s are required at sunrisefamily.org/life.

July 31: Outdoor concert and food truck festival

The Hulapoppers Outdoor Concert and Food Truck Festival takes place from 5 – 8 p.m. at SunRise Church at 7116 Twin Chimneys Blvd in O’Fallon. Free admission, food trucks cost extra.

August 14: Breakfast event

The Red Hat Society’s Eastern Missouri Queen’s Council will host a “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” event. There will be a formal coronation for all new RHS Standing Proud Queens and will be held at Marriott St Louis Airport at 10700 Pear Tree Lane between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. For more information please contact Council Queen 314-496-6625 or email ladiesinred6309532gmail.com.

Sept. 11: Fundraiser

Operation Food Search (OFS), a nonprofit hunger relief organization, will host Feast for Change at 5:30 p.m. The fundraiser, which commemorates OFS’s 40th anniversary, will be held at Kuhs Estate & Farm located at 13080 Spanish Pond Rd. in Spanish Lake.

The farm-to-fork experience includes fresh, locally sourced food, fine wine, and a live auction. Proceeds from the evening benefit OFS’s services that focus on finding solutions in response to the region’s food systems challenges. Tickets are $150 per person and $1,500 for a table of 10. For ticket details or to become a sponsor, call 314726-5355.

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: practice

Choral Arts Singers

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.

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

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.

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 636-634-6582 or (women) Denise W. at 530-417-6151.

Mondays: A cappella singers

Tuesdays: Choir rehearsals

Mondays: Workshop meetings

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

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 Legion 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 314660-1813.

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, 314-9943300. 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 infor-

mation 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: checks

Blood

pressure

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: meeting

Women’s

chorus

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 bi-state 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

www.mycnews.com • Community News – St. Louis County • July 7, 2021 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.

Sundays: meeting

Jennings

Do-Dads

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 314-291-5210 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.

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.

SilverSneakers Senior Wellness Program at the Maryland Heights Centre

A fun, energizing program that helps older adults take greater control of their health by encouraging physical activity and offering social events. A Silver Sneakers membership includes access to the city’s Fitness Centre with stateof-the-art fitness equipment and circuit training. Membership is available at little or no cost through your health plan. To find out if you are eligible, visit www.silversneakers.com or call 314738-2599.

What’s Happening

Smoking Cessation Classes:

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

SSM DePaul Wellness Center:

Classes available on strength training, nutrition and smoking cessation, 314344-6177

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, 636-9475617

Speaker’s Bureau:

SSM speakers available for organiza-

SUDOKU answers from page F-1

Wednesdays: ACES Schizophrenia Support Group 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 314-344-7220 to enroll.

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

Center for Senior Renewal:

Day treatment programs for older adults dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, loss and early signs of dementia, 314-653-5123.

Nutrition Education:

SSM DePaul registered dieticians can help you make sure your diet is right for you, 314-344-6157.

Christian Center:

Hospital

Recovery

Outpatient mental health and substance abuse treatment for adults, 314953-8100.

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.

CROSSWORD answers from page F-4

www.treesbywoodys.net

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tions, 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 - 2 p.m., 320 Forsyth Blvd., Clayton, 314-968-3477.

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Sports

July 7, 2021 • Community News – St. Louis County • www.mycnews.com

Sports you see with Gary B...

Lindenwood lacrosse player earns honors Lindenwood University and the Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC) have announced Eric McGuire as the GLVC Scholar-Athlete of the Year for women’s lacrosse for the 2020-21 season.

The award is based upon athletic accomplishments, both team and individual, and academic performance in the season upon which the award is based. Nominees must have a cumulative grade point average that meets Academic All-America standards (3.30), and freshmen and first-year transfers are not eligible for the award. Each member institution’s Faculty Athletics Representative completes the voting.

McGuire, an attacker for the women’s lacrosse squad, becomes the first female to take home the award for the Lions, and the second student-athlete overall.

A Westminster, Maryland native, McGuire secured numerous achievements on the field to pair with her academic honors. She was a first-team All-Region selection this season, the team-leader in goals (45), assists (50), points (95), and was tied for the lead in

shots with 89.

The first-team All-GLVC selection was instrumental in helping lead Lindenwood to an NCAA Division II National Championship during the season.

In the classroom, McGuire accumulated GLVC Academic All-Conference accolades, her second-straight season doing so. ~~~Great accomplishment Hoots clinch playoff spot The O’Fallon Hoots are members of the Prospect Baseball League, playing in the West-Prairie Land division and began play in O’Fallon at their home field CarShield in May 2020 after relocating from Hannibal, Missouri following the 2019 season.

The O’Fallon team in their first season in the Prospect League, clinched a playoff berth Wednesday night by virtue of beating the Cape Catfish and winning the first-half title in their division.

In the contest, Brett Johnson continued his hitting rage getting two hits in four attempts.

Catcher Elias Stevens picked up two runs-batted-in with a double in the third inning to give the Hoots a lead early.

Bryce Wear pitched six innings allowing only three hits and one earned run and not walking any batter.

Reliever Masen Palmie picked up his fifth save out of six games.

The Hoots and Catfish both ended the first half with an 18-12 record, but O’Fallon owned the head-to-head tiebreaker over Cape.

O’Fallon will host the Prairie Land Division Championship game at the end of

the regular season against the division’s second-half winner. The second half began July 1.

Go to www.OfallonHoots.com for more information. *Congrats on the victory

Become a professional indoor soccer player The St. Louis Ambush is a professional soccer team that plays in the MASL east division with home games at the Family Arena in St. Charles starting in the fall.

The Ambush will hold open tryouts for the upcoming MASL soccer season.

The dates will be Aug. 7 and Aug. 8.

The location will be the Vetta St Charles facility at 1425 St. Peters Cottleville Rd. in Cottleville.

Ambush owners, coaches, and staff will be present for the tryouts both days.

For more information go to www.STLAmbush.com *Kick your way to history 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, among many other activities. I am currently hosting a Health show on 97.1 FM, ‘Prime Time Health’ www.

PrimeTimeSTL.com. It broadcasts Saturday nights at 8 and Sunday mornings at 9.

www.mycnews.com • Community News • July 7, 2021

Recipe: Master Summer Meals With An Apple And Mandarin Macaroni Salad Apple and Mandarin Macaroni Salad

Ingredients: • 2 thinly sliced chicken breasts • 1/2 package cream cheese, softened • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt • 1 tablespoon finely chopped shallot • 1 lemon, zest only • 1 tablespoon lemon juice • 1 can (10.7 ounces) mandarin oranges, drained, juice reserved • 2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus additional, to taste, divided • 20 turns fresh cracked pepper, plus additional, to taste, divided • water • 1/2 pound macaroni • 1 A pple, diced

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– SUDOKU –

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

Directions: • Allow chicken breasts to sit at room temperature 20 minutes.

• Mash softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, chopped shallot, lemon zest, lemon juice, 3 tablespoons reserved mandarin juice, chopped parsley, salt and pepper. Set aside.

• Preheat grill or saute pan to high heat. Season chicken breasts with drizzle of olive oil, salt and pepper, to taste.

• Grill chicken breasts until internal temperature reaches 165 F. If using saute pan, cook 2 minutes on each side then finish in 400 F oven 5-10 minutes. Allow chicken to cool then dice into small chunks.

• Bring medium or large pot of salted water to boil. Add macaroni and cook until tender. Drain and pour hot noodles into large mixing bowl.

• Gently stir in cream cheese mixture until noodles are well coated. Let cool slightly.

• Add diced chicken, apples and mandarin oranges; stir to combine. Serve warm or chill in refrigerator to serve cold.

Visit EnvyApple.com to find apples at a grocer near you.

SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 9

‘Galaxy Quest’ and other ‘must watch’ movies

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.

Yahoo recently announced that the “Galaxy Quest” TV series, which had been tied up in development, may actually be moving forward. Based on the 1999 homage/parody of “Star Trek,” the film featured Tim Allen as Jason Nesmith, a washed-up actor whose main claim to fame was playing Commander Peter Quincy Taggert on a space-themed TV show.

“Alien” star Sigourney Weaver starred as Lieutenant Tawny Madison, the communications officer who simply repeated what the computer said.

“Galaxy Quest” earned a modest “Galaxy Quest” photo courtesy Dreamworks Pictures. amount at the box office, but over time it became a cult classic. The King’s “Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank late great Alan Rickman of “Harry Potter” Redemption,” director Frank Darabont’s big fame was hilarious as Alexander Dane, an screen adaptation dealt with loss, friendship actor who played the alien Dr. Lazarus on and, as the title indicated, redemption. Tim the show. Dane wanted more out of his ca- Robbins played Andy Dufresne, a banker arreer than wearing makeup and uttering catch rested for murder and sentenced to two life phrases at “Galaxy Quest” conventions. The sentences. Morgan Freeman’s Red, a man cast found themselves on an actual spaceship who can get things, took a liking to Andy and dealing with deadly alien creatures. If you they became close friends over the decades. come across this film while flipping stations, Throughout the film, Andy continued to proyou may feel compelled to sit down and watch fess his innocence, however. it until the closing credits.

Space movies have been fairly common, “The Shawshank Redemption” also fell into but Ron Howard’s “Apollo 13” was rather the “Must Watch” category. Based on Stephen eye-catching with its fantastic visuals. Based

on “Lost Moon” by astronaut Jim Lovell and Jeffrey Kluger, the story opened on Lovell, played by Tom Hanks, as he and his family and friends watched Neil Armstrong take the first steps on the moon. Lovell was named commander of Apollo 13 and Lunar Module Pilot Fred Haise (Bill Paxton) was going to the lunar surface with him. Ken Mattingly (Gary Sinese) was Command Module Pilot but after exposure to the measles, he was replaced by Jack Swigert (Kevin Bacon).

“Apollo 13” was not just a film for space enthusiasts.

Director Ron Howard delved deeply into the lives of the astronauts and their families.

As Marilyn Lovell, Kathleen Quinlan showed how the astronaut wives took care of things at home while fielding interview requests from the press. Ed Harris played Gene Kranz, the flight director who coordinated an effort to get the crew back home. Even though I know how it ends, I always watch to make sure to watch to the end.

Everyone has their list of “Must Watch” films and “Galaxy Quest” is one of my favorites. Hopefully, the TV adaptation will make it broadcast TV or streaming services sometime in the next year.

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July 7, 2021 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

ACTIVE BUYER

HELP WANTED

RECORDS WANTED Cash paid for 78, 33 & 45 RPM records

House calls made Call Bob 636-296-5240

COLLECTIBLES

HELP WANTED www.marygrovechildren.org

www.dawcstl.com SINGERS WANTED

Do you have lots of unwanted “Stuff?”

Let help advertise your sale!

Call Brooke at 636-379-1775

www.mycnews.com • Community News • July 7, 2021

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July 7, 2021 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

Yeggs

John Hanna

Crossword: SUMMER OLYMPICS

‘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.

Moore on Life

By Cindy Moore

LEFT HOLDING THE BAG

Shopping is a great stress reliever for me. If I ever need to decompress I just grab a friend (her name’s VISA) and we go out on the town and soon feel lots better.

On the way we picked up my annoying Aunt Fiona. She had asked me to go out to lunch with her the week before, but I made up a lame excuse about having to water the lawn. She quickly reminded me that I had an automatic sprinkling system. Darn her photographic memory! I was forced to repent and reschedule.

We soon stopped at one of my favorite stores along the way. It’s an outlet and carries all kinds of interesting one-of-a-kinds. If you find something you better grab it because it won’t be there the following day.

We split up then met later. Fiona was having a great time, better than me apparently. Her shopping basket was half full while I could still see the bottom of mine.

“What’s the matter dear?” she asked. “Not having much luck?”

“Hmph,” I muttered. “I’ve got my eye on a few things.”

She was always trying to one up me on something.

We rounded the corner when something caught our attention mid-shelf—an adorable bag. We both grabbed onto it at the same time. I smiled so she could see I was clearly the better person, but tightened my grip just the same. She grinned as well, but clenched her teeth and gave the object of

our desire a forcible tug.

Hmm, the old girl was going to play tough, huh?

Well I wasn’t about to release my grasp either since her cart was half full and I deserved the item much more than she did.

I saw that her will was strengthening as well as her hold. I had to think fast. I gave the object a wicked twist; her poor arthritic hands could not withstand such a maneuver. I won the battle and

came home the victor.

My husband spied my purchase and examined it closely then chortled, “What in the name of all that’s ridiculous do you need a cat-carrying bag for?”

I pretended I knew exactly what it was.

“Oh calm down. Aunt Fiona’s birthday’s next week.”

I guess she’d won after all.

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. Welsh dog breed 6. With juice, or au ____ 9. Pirate’s yes, pl.

13. What a subordinate does 14. Cigarette residue 15. Chimney cleaner 16. Coffin holders 17. “Sheep be true! ___-ram-ewe!”

18. Poisonous Christmas berry 19. *First U.S. city to host Summer Olympics 21. *Swimmer with most Olympic medals 23. Part of a min.

24. *Field hockey’s stick and ball, e.g.

25. Gayle King’s network 28. Capital of Latvia 30. *Canoeing: slalom and ____ 35. Rhine tributary 37. Building annexes 39. A in AV 40. Three-ply cookie 41. *Madison cycling, e.g.

43. *Light ball tap, in volleyball or tennis 44. What hoarders do 46. Not happening (2 words) 47. Half-rotten 48. *Martial art debuting in

Olympics in 2021 50. Make a plaintive cry 52. Short for although 53. Luau instruments 55. Street in Paris 57. *____ horse in gymnastics 60. *One of pentathlon events 64. Kentucky Derby drink 65. Rock in a glass 67. Small Asian ungulate 68. Spy’s cover 69. Not a win nor a loss 70. Run off to marry 71. Pat dry 72. Eastern Standard Time 73. Between shampoo and repeat DOWN 1. Corn units 2. Final notice?

3. Rod attachment 4. Greek sandwiches 5. Federal Reserve in relation to U.S. currency 6. *Boxing moves 7. *All-time Olympic record holder in medal count 8. Popular fitness magazine 9. Military no-show 10. Crowd-sourced review platform 11. Mature elvers 12. I do this with my little eye

15. Tibetan mountaineer 20. Slipperier 22. ____-been 24. London’s Tyburn Tree, e.g.

25. Kick the bucket 26. Thailand’s neighbor 27. Give sheep a haircut 29. A valley in Scotland 31. “Ant-Man” leading actor 32. Dostoevsky’s “The ____” 33. Beethoven’s famous symphony 34. *2021 Olympic host 36. Civil Rights icon 38. Long adventure story 42. ____ welcome!

45. Tree cutters’ leftovers 49. ____ out, as in victory 51. One suffering from tuberculosis 54. Chosen few 56. Food safety threat 57. *Threat to muscles 58. Mixture 59. Source of protein 60. Pedal pushers 61. Golf club 62. Midday slumbers 63. High school club 64. #6 Down, sing.

66. Post-Soviet Union union

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