CNSTC: February 2, 2022

February 2, 2022

Restoring homes and lives

Around Town

St. Charles West junior earns perfect score on ACT. Pg. 5 Wentzville United Methodist Church sends ‘thank you’ to front line workers at SSM Saint Joseph Hospital. Pg. 4 St. Peters suspends yard waste collection during February. Pg. 4

Special Section Home & Garden.

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Features

Submitted photo Restore St. Charles is a faith-based, not-for-profit program that focuses on serving through building the community around them by restoring homes and properties.

Restore St. Charles is a faith-based, not-for-profit program that focuses on serving the community by restoring homes and properties

By Brett Auten With a little elbow grease, knowhow and hearts in the right place, a St. Charles organization continues to revive and energize the lives around them.

Restore St. Charles is a faith-based, notfor-profit program that focuses on serving the community by restoring homes and properties. Restore St. Charles meets the needs of individuals who have homes and properties that need repair. Some of the projects may seem small and can be completed in a weekend. But there are others that require ongoing commitment. In every case, a family is recommended or contacts them directly.

Steve Collier founded Restore St. Charles in the fall of 2007.

“A lot of people look to be in need of help,” Collier said. “If you want to change the world, what better place to start than your neighbor in need.”

Anywhere from 20-to-30 volunteers usually meet the third Saturday of the month and spread out over a half a dozen projects the group has going at any time. Restore St. Charles is based out of Dardenne Presbyterian Church but is a conglomerate of Christ’s Church, Chapel of the Lake, CrossHaven Church and Grace Community Chapel.

“It gives us more resources and volunteers when other churches participate,” Collier said. “You don’t have to be an expert to help

out. We have the experts.”

In 2021 the organization worked 66 different sites, involving 241 volunteers who amassed 1,500 hours of volunteer labor.

“We believe we represent the love of Christ when at the work sites,” Collier said. “We see that when our clients ask us to pray for them when facing adversity. We want them to know that we care for them personally, and they are not just a project to us. We are there to help and never judge.”

Project managers delegate the roles and off they go where they will do anything and everything, except roofing. The bulk of the projects are at mobile homes where floor, See ‘HOMES’ page 2

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Around Town

February 2, 2022 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

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Submitted photos Restore St. Charles is based out of Dardenne Presbyterian Church but is a conglomerate of Christ’s Church, Chapel of the Lake, CrossHaven Church, and Grace Community Chapel, and is open to other volunteers.

‘HOMES’ from cover wall and ceiling repairs are in need. Oftentimes due to code violations.

“You get a two-weeks’ notice to fix something or clean up your yard and you have no skills and no funds, that is quite the quandary,” Coller said.

Wheelchair ramps are a usual request. But

there is no task too small (tree trim, lock repair) or complex (an elevator to get a wheelchair to the front door) for the crew.

The most important part of any nonprofit effort is to rally three important resources: volunteers, sponsors, and materials. The volunteers are the lifeblood of Restore St. Charles. They show up regularly and give their all to one of the work days.

“Most show up over and over again and

THEATER REVIEW:

even contribute a few dollars toward the project,” Collier said. “Our sponsors are companies who provide us the necessary materials, through contributions and discounts, to get the project done.”

For more information, including how to volunteer or provide sponsorship, call Collier at 314-374-2130.

By Mat DeKinder

Save the last dance for “The Prom” “The Prom” is a relatively new musical, debuting on Broadway in 2018 (although, being pre-pandemic, that feels like approximately 750 years ago).

That means that most people (myself included) were introduced to the musical by the 2020 film version that debuted on Netflix.

Since it was directed by Ryan Murphy, everything got turned up to 11 and the miscast (overcast?) parade of stars including Meryl Streep, Nicole Kidman, James Corden and Kerry Washington made the show seem like an exhausting mess.

Fortunately “The Prom” is redeemed when taken back to its roots on stage, as proven by the delightful touring production now playing at the Fox Theatre through Feb. 6.

The story is a simple one of big-city hubris colliding with small-town intolerance. In New York City a group of struggling Broadway actors are looking to rehabilitate their public images.

Fading superstar Dee Dee Allen (Ashley Bruce) and fellow headliner Barry Glickman (Patrick Wetzel) are reeling after their latest show closed after just one performance. Along with struggling Julliard graduate and former sitcom star Trent Oliver (Jordan Alexander) and long, long-time chorus girl Angie (Emily Borromeo) this vain and selfish quartet are thrilled when they discover the perfect cause.

In a small town in Indiana, high-school lesbian Emma (Kaden Kearney) causes a huge

The cast of the touring production of “The Prom.”

commotion when she wants to take another girl to the prom. The townspeople, led by PTA president Mrs. Greene (Ashanti J’Aria) decide to cancel prom.

When the Broadway stars arrive, they quickly proceed to make matters worse with poor Emma and her well-meaning principal Mr. Hawkins (Christopher McCrewell) caught in the middle.

In the end, thanks to Emma’s bravery, the Broadway crew learns some humility, the townspeople learn some tolerance and we are treated to a lot of fun along the way.

The cast, in true the-show-must-go-on fashion, rallied after a handful of COVID cancel-

Submitted photo

lations and with several understudies mixed in they delivered excellent performances all around.

The songs are catchy and clever (the number “Just Breathe” starts with the line “Note to self, don’t be gay in Indiana.”) and there’s really not a clunker in the bunch.

“The Prom” is a grand time and proves itself worthy of a second look, especially if you were left unimpressed by the movie version.

“The Prom” is now playing at the Fox Theatre through Feb. 6. For tickets call (314)-534-1111 or go to metrotix.com.

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • February 2, 2022

Unprecedented funding available for Missouri families who need help paying utility bills More customers than ever before are eligible for help paying their utility bills after Ameren Missouri and the state of Missouri have expanded several utility assistance programs. As a result, families across the state can take the first step today, which is reaching out for help.

The state of Missouri recently updated its federally funded Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to provide more funding and expand eligibility requirements.

Here’s what that means for qualifying Ameren Missouri customers: • A disconnection notice is not required.

• Energy assistance payments have doubled for both LIHEAP programs.

The Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP) payment is now $1,600 in the winter and $1,200 in the summer.

• Assistance is available year-round.

“There is no better time to apply for LIHEAP and other energy assistance funding. In the last year, the state of Missouri has in-

creased the eligibility limits and doubled the amount of assistance each household can receive,” said Georgie Donahue, program administration director with the Community Action Agency of St. Louis County Inc. (CAASTLC).

“We have also made the application process as simple as possible. Customers can apply online or print out a hard copy and bring it to CAASTLC headquarters. These combined changes are significant and will go a long way in helping Missouri families,” Donahue said.

For more information on the state’s LIHEAP changes and to learn if you qualify, visit AmerenMissouri.com/LIHEAP. “The ongoing impacts of the pandemic, combined with the holiday season, can put families in a tough situation when it comes to paying their bills,” said Tara Oglesby, vice president of customer experience for Ameren Missouri. “Thousands of customers have taken advantage of these programs in 2021. In 2022, we want others to reach out for help, especially now that even more funding is available.”

For customers with moderate

incomes who don’t qualify for LIHEAP but have been impacted financially by COVID-19, Ameren Missouri created the Clean Slate program. This $1.2 million energy assistance fund has already helped thousands of Missouri families with their utility expenses. More than half of the funding is still available. Through Clean Slate, qualifying customers may receive up to $750. To learn more and apply, go to AmerenMissouri.com/CleanSlate.

Another resource available to customers is the Dollar More program. In addition to customer contributions, Ameren Missouri recently added another $50,000 to this fund for income-eligible households. If you’re struggling with energy bills – or if you’d like to donate $1 per month to help those who are, check out Dollar More.

To keep a closer eye on your energy usage every month, sign up for an online account. You can log in from your phone or computer any time to see how and when you use energy, your next month’s bill projections, and sign up for alerts to help you manage your usage.

State continues to add COVID-19 testing sites Transmission of COVID-19 continues to be high throughout most areas of Missouri. The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) is continuing to adapt to the everchanging needs among communities and provide additional free testing sites in other areas of the state, such as Hillsboro, Peculiar, Columbia and Springfield. Large testing events at the St. Charles Family Arena and Kauffman Stadium have also been extended.

At this time, these are scheduled as drive-through testing events. Some sites require pre-registration and scheduling; others allow walk-ins. The schedule of community testing events is available at health.mo.gov/ communitytest. The test used at these community testing events is a PCR test done by an anterior nares swab to determine the presence of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Once tested, individuals will be no-

tified of results no later than 72 hours from the end of the testing event.

This winter, it may be necessary for DHSS, local officials and the testing contractor to cancel a testing event or move the event indoors due to inclement weather. This is in order to protect the safety of testing staff and participants as well as maintain the functionality of the technology used. Before heading to an event, it is best to check the website to make sure the event has not been canceled or details have not changed.

Community testing sites scheduled throughout the state can be found at health.mo.gov/communitytest.

The at-home PCR test ordering program offered by the state remains available in a limited amount each day through January. DHSS would encourage those who have obtained these tests to use them by mailing in

their sample as instructed. With the high case rates and limited testing supplies available nationwide, now is the time to utilize these tests especially for those who have symptoms consistent with COVID-19 or have had exposure to a COVID-19 positive case.

Additionally, the federal government is now offering four free rapid antigen COVID-19 tests per household. These can be ordered at covidtests.gov.

It is an important reminder that testing provides information regarding the presence of the virus at that point in time and if taken too early or too late could provide a false sense of security due to lower levels of viral load. For those with COVID-like symptoms, it is recommended they stay home and avoid contact with others just as they would with other viruses.

Around Town

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Around Town

February 2, 2022 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

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Wentzville United Methodist Church sends ‘thank you’ to front line workers at SSM Saint Joseph Hospital

Submitted photos

Wentzville United Methodist Church recently provided 300 “Thank You” care packages to SSM Saint Joe Hospital’s health care workers in Lake St. Louis.

A thank you to was to express their profound appre-

ciation; while honoring and supporting nurses, physicians, and all members of their health care teams who continue to provide critical care, comfort, and compassion during this ongoing pandemic.

St. Peters suspends yard waste collection during February The city of St. Peters will suspend curbside yard waste collection during February to allow time for vehicle maintenance and repair while saving fuel at a time when yard waste volume is low.

Yard waste pickup will resume the first week of March. Visit www.stpetersmo.net/trash to get the STP Collects app for trash and recycling collection schedules and reminders.

St. Peters Earth Centre will continue to accept yard

waste during February. Hours of operation for yard waste acceptance are 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 7:30 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturday.

Earth Centre is located at 115 Ecology Drive in St. Peters. Residents are reminded to bring their Resident Privilege Card for free disposal of up to 10 cubic yards of yard waste. For information on obtaining a free Resident Privilege Card, visit www.stpetersmo. net.

St. Peters Rec-Plex kicks off the Winter Games Feb. 13 You and your kids can enjoy fun, Olympic-inspired activities fit for all ages and skill levels at the St. Peters Rec-Plex Winter Games on Feb. 13, from 12:30-2:30 p.m.

There will be ice hockey, figure skating, curling, speed skating, and slalom on the Rec-Plex’s NHLsized rink. There will also be a crafting table where you can make your own Olympic torches, and a hot

chocolate stand for everyone to enjoy.

All events will be on the north ice rink. Rec-Plex members get to enjoy activities and skate rental for free. Non-members have the activities covered by daily admission fees, and ice skate rentals will be available for $3.50 per customer.

For more information, visit www.stpetersmo.net/ rec-plex.

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • February 2, 2022

St. Charles West junior earns perfect score on ACT St. Charles West student Abhiram Kudaravalli earned a composite score of 36 on the ACT, a perfect score. Kudaravalli, a SCW junior, has been with the City of St. Charles School District since kindergarten.

“Initially I was a little nervous because I was getting my PSAT score five days before the test,” Kudaravalli said. “I was worried if I did bad it would affect my confidence, but I scored well so I felt good going into the (ACT) test.”

The ACT is made up of four tests covering English, mathematics, reading and science, with each section being scored on a scale of 1-36. Fewer than half of 1% of students who take the ACT earn a perfect score of 36. In the U.S. high school graduating class of 2020, only 5,579 out of 1.67 million students who took the ACT achieved this feat.

“Reading was the section I was most unsure of as it’s pretty hit or miss,” Kudaravalli said. “I feel if you enjoy the passage, it’s way easier, but if you don’t it’s hard to do.”

It should come as no surprise that a student with such well-rounded knowledge has a well-rounded lifestyle. When he’s not busy acing college entrance

Around Town

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Please

Please RECYCLE

this paper RECYCLE after enjoying!

this paper after enjoying!

Photo courtesy City of St. Charles School District St. Charles West student Abhiram Kudaravalli earned a composite score of 36 on the ACT, a perfect score.

exams, Kudaravalli participates in cross country/track, esports, National Honor Society, Missouri Health Occupations Students of America, and is even a junior instructor of Taekwondo.

After high school, Kudaravalli is interested in attending either Saint Louis University or University of Missouri-Columbia as in-state options or University of Washington-Seattle or University of North

Carolina-Chapel Hill as out-ofstate options. He’s looking to major in either computer science or pre-med.

“Right now, it’s a really tough choice,” Kudaravalli said. “I don’t want to give up either of them.”

For a young man that is as intelligent, hardworking and determined as Kudaravalli is, there’s no reason to think he won’t be able to figure out a way to do both.

West Community Credit Union scholarships available West Community Credit Union is now accepting applications for their annual scholarship program.

There are five $1,500 scholarships available to graduating high school seniors. Online applications are available at www.westcommunitycu.org and are due March 11. West Community has been awarding scholarships to high school students for the past 25 years.

“We are committed to our members and the communities we serve, and happy to provide financial assistance to graduating high school seniors for their higher education.” States Lori Hudson, Community Outreach Specialist for West Community Credit Union.

For more information, visit online or stop by a local branch.

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City of St. Peters announces holiday hours for Presidents Day St. Peters City Hall, Cultural Arts Centre, Municipal Court, Police Records Division and Recycle City will be closed on Feb. 21, in observance of Presidents Day. The St. Peters Rec-Plex will be open on Feb. 21, but administrative offices will be closed.

Recycle City will be open for trash and yard waste disposal on Feb. 21, but Recycle City offices will be closed. The Aytes Community Recycling Center at Recycle City will be open for recycling drop-off Submitted image during daylight hours.

Trash, recycling and yard waste collection will operate on a normal schedule the week of Feb. 21. Earth Centre will be open on Feb. 21 for yard waste acceptance only. Earth Centre product sales are not available.

Animal Control will be on call during Feb. 21. For emergency calls only, after hours or during the holiday, call Police Dispatch at 636-2782222.

For normal hours of city of St. Peters services, visit www.stpetersmo. net.

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Home & Garden

February 2, 2022 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

Keeping pets safe in the garden

Keeping pets safe in the garden If you have pets that enjoy spending time outdoors, it’s important to make sure your yard is a safe place for them to be.

Consider these hazards that can negatively impact the well-being of your furry friends.

Poisonous Plants – Some common plants can be dangerous for animals, causing anything from mild oral irritations and upset stomachs to cardiovascular damage and even death. For example, these are some of the toxic plants the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) has identified as harmful for either cats or dogs: • Aloe – can cause vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, anorexia and depression • Azalea – can cause vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, weakness, coma, cardiovascular collapse and death • Burning bush – can cause vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain and weakness, as well as heart rhythm abnormalities with large doses • Caladium – can cause burn-

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ing and irritation of the mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing Daylilies – can cause kidney failure in cats Hibiscus – can cause vomiting, diarrhea, nausea and anorexia

Mulch and Compost – The decomposing elements that make compost good can be bad for pets, according to the National Garden Society. Keep compost in a secure container or fenced off area so pets can’t get to it. Cocoa mulch can be a particular problem for dogs. A byproduct of chocolate production, cocoa mulch can cause digestive problems and even seizures in dogs. Shredded pine or cedar mulch is a safer choice.

Fertilizer and Insecticides – The chemicals used to get rid of pests or make your lawn lush can be toxic to pets. Some of the most dangerous pesticides include snail bait with metaldehyde, fly bait with methomyl, systemic insecticides with disyston or disulfoton, mole or gopher bait with zinc phosphide

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

and most forms of rat poison, according to the ASPCA. Follow all instructions carefully, and store pesticides and fertilizers in a secure area out of the reach of animals.

Fleas and Ticks – In addition to using appropriate flea and tick prevention methods such as collars and sprays, make sure your yard isn’t a welcoming environment for these pests. Keep the

lawn trimmed and remove brush and detritus, where fleas and ticks often lurk.

Fleas can cause hair loss, scabs, excessive scratching, tapeworms and anemia.

Ticks can do all of that, plus bring you and your family in contact with diseases like Rocky Mountain spotted fever and Lyme disease.

Find more tips for keeping pets safe in your yard at eLivingtoday.com.

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • February 2, 2022

Home & Garden

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Get growing with an urban garden Urban living and lush gardens aren’t as mutually exclusive as one might assume. In fact, it’s possible to cultivate thriving gardens in even the smallest spaces.

The first step toward creating a successful small garden space is planning.

Sketching out your garden area with a clear understanding of the actual dimensions is important. This allows you to allocate adequate growing space for the vegetation you choose and prevent overcrowding.

Part of your planning should also take climate into account. If the sun reaches your garden area, knowing what time the sun typically hits matters. Some plants are poorly equipped to handle the strength of direct afternoon rays.

Other matters to consider are the soil quality and whether it is adequate

to nourish vegetation. If not, you may need to excavate and refill your planting areas with nutrient-rich gardening soil. Access to water is also a concern; if you’ll be forced to water by can, avoid choosing plants that would better benefit from a thorough hose soaking.

As you begin planning the actual contents of your garden, don’t hesitate to blend edibles with beauty. Many herbs offer attractive textures and colors that can add variety to a colorful selection of flowering plants. Edible plants such as strawberries offer color from blooms (and later brightly hued fruit), as well as trailing greenery that looks pretty along the edges of potted containers.

If your goal is color, give consideration to the blooming season for your selected plants. Unless you plan to enjoy your garden for just a short season,

choose a variety of plants and flowers that bloom throughout your region’s entire growing season.

Especially in the smallest garden spaces, it’s smart to make the most of vertical space. Use a trellis or other structure to encourage vining vegetation to grow upward rather than outward. Hanging baskets or buckets are ideal for inverted growth of plants such as tomatoes or peppers, and shelving or tiered plant stands are handy for creating more plant real estate in smaller garden spaces.

Beautiful gardens need not be limited to those with expansive lawns in rural communities. Though smaller in scale, urban gardens can deliver equal beauty and a surprising volume of edible bounty with proper preparation and design. Find more tips at eLivingtoday.com.

Photo courtesy of Pexels

Tips for gardening with kids After months of cool weather, the first hint of spring will likely have the whole family eager to dive into outdoor activities. This year, as you begin tackling the garden, find ways to get the youngest family members in on the action, too.

Not only is gardening an activity you can enjoy together, there are numerous ways to incorporate age-appropriate, teachable moments from counting and colors to responsible care of living things.

Creating a positive first experience with gardening can start with this simple advice: • Dedicate a spot for a junior garden, which allows you to instill a sense of pride and ownership in the little gardener while protecting your own garden areas from ambitious young hands.

• Provide appropriate tools in child sizes. Just as you would teach a child the finer points of

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baseball using a bat and glove, demonstrate the joys of gardening with tools such as a rake, hoe and trowel, all of which can be found in sizes more manageable for little helpers.

Let the kids choose what to plant. Whether flowers or food plants, allow children to make their own decisions (within reason) about what they would like to grow. This can help them engage in the magic of watching items they selected emerge from the ground and grow into their finished forms.

Encourage exposure to unfamiliar plants that entice the senses with appealing smells and flavors. Herbs such as chives, mint and basil are good choices, or consider edible flowers such as pansies or violets.

Set an example for your child

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

to imitate by giving regular and proper care to your own garden.

Remember to bring the lesson full circle by enjoying the bounty of your

garden together, whether it’s a small hand-cut bouquet or a meal featuring your child’s fresh-grown produce.

Find more tips for gardening with your kids at eLivingtoday.com.

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What’s Happening

February 2, 2022 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

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 Feb. 26: education

Gardening

Gardening for Pollinators for the backyard gardener at the 11th annual Dig-In Gardening Event hosted by the St. Charles County Master Gardeners starting at 8 a.m. The event will be virtual this year but still includes the great classes and topics that attendees have come to expect. All sessions will be recorded to allow for later access by registrants. For more details go to: https:// www.stcharlescountymastergardeners.com/.

Feb. 26: Quilt social

Quilt social a.k.a. bingo takes place at Sts. Joachim and Ann School Cafeteria at 4110 McClay Road in St. Charles.

Doors open at 9:30 a.m., games begin at 11 a.m. No registration required. Only 16 and older allowed. All proceeds will benefit the work of St. Ann Ladies Club, Sts. Joachim and Ann Parish School, Parish School of Religion and Sts. Joachim and Ann Care Service.

For more information call or email Laura Free at 314-369-

the helpline at 314-993-7550 or email gateway_parent_help@ yahoo.com. BILY is a program of self-help for parents of troubled children (all ages). We are not professionals, but parents helping each other. The meetings are free to attend.

Mondays: NAMI St. Louis Connection Recovery Support Group

Mondays: Parent support group

Because I Love You, (BILY), Gateway parent support group meets every Monday at 7:30 p.m. at First United Methodist Church at 801 First Capitol Dr. in St. Charles. For information and directions, please contact

Noon at St. Peters City Hall, One St. Peters Centre Blvd. www.stpetersrotary.org.

Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays: Fitness First Exercise Class 9:30-10:30 a.m., American Legion Hall, 504 Luetkenhaus Blvd., Wentzville. 314-3696521.

Mondays and Thursdays: Bridge

Mondays: American Legion Post 388 Meets

Alcoholics

If you want to drink, that’s your business. If you want to stop, we can help. Call Alcoholics Anonymous at 636-970-0013.

Mondays: Cottleville Weldon Spring Kiwanis Club

Mondays: Seasoned eye carvers meeting

TOPS meet every Monday at Holy Cross Lutheran Church at 8945 Veterans Memorial Hwy in O’Fallon. Meetings at 9:30 a.m. with weigh in beginning at 8:30 a.m. For more information please call Linda Wilcox at 636-447-9056.

Tuesdays: Cribbage Club

Mondays: Anonymous

ONGOING EVENTS

Mondays: Take off Pounds Sensibly

Mondays: St. Peters Rotary Club

If you have mental health concerns and need support, please come on Mondays at 6:30 p.m. at Friedens United Church of Christ at 1703 Old Highway 94 South in St. Charles.

7631 or LauraLFree@att.net.

The Wentzville/Lake St. Louis Optimist Club meets on the second and fourth Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Wentzville IHOP, 10 Layla Lane, Wentzville, MO.. For more information contact Ed Jurotich at 314-560-1868.

left) at 7400 South Outer 364 at the corner with Bryan Road.

St. Peters Senior Center plays bridge from 9 a.m. to noon on Monday and Thursdays, and would love to have any player, regardless of skill level, to join in. Call Mary Ann at 636-3970866 if you are interested in playing on Monday or Thursday morning.

Cottleville Weldon Spring Kiwanis Club meets the first Monday of the month at noon at The Breakfast Club, 991 Waterbury Falls Dr., O’Fallon, MO 63368. New club looking for new members who want to better our community. Contact Christy at 314-583-0538.

Mondays: Optimist Club meetings

information, contact Beverly Kaskadden at 636-561-6947.

Meetings are held from 9 to 11 a.m. at the St. Charles Senior Citizens Center at 1455 Fairgrounds (near the Bass Pro Shop). Visitors are always welcome. For more information visit http://www.stcharlesareawoodcarvers.com/ or contact Charles Sapp at cwsapp@charter.net.

Mondays: Choral Arts Singers practice

Choral Arts Singers practice on Mondays, from 7-9 p.m. at Connection ChristianChurch, 1332 Feise Road in Dardenne Prairie. New singers (high school and older) are welcome.

Auditions are not required.

See www.concertarts.org.

Mondays: St. Charles County Council of the Blind meetings Business meetings are held on the first Monday of each month unless otherwise specified. Currently, during the COVID pandemic, meetings are held via conference call, starting at 6:45 pm. For more

Meets the fourth Monday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at American Legion Hall, 607 Westridge Dr., O’Fallon, 636219-0553.

Mondays: Mondays:

Measurement

10 a.m. - 12 noon at the ST. Charles Health Deparment in the Upper Level Conference room.

Measurement Mondays is a family-friendly breastfeeding support group. We are open to all moms and momsto-be who are breastfeeding or interested in breastfeeding.

The group is supported by the St Charles County WIC program so there will be information about the program available at each meeting. Each meeting will be a little different than the last. There will be baby weigh-ins, introductions, games, interactive education, group conversation, and even snacks.

Mondays and Wednesdays: Tai Chi for arthritis class Every Monday and Wednesday a Tai Chi for arthritis class, sponsored by the city of St. Charles Parks and Recreation, takes place from 9:15 - 10 a.m. at Webster Park across from the Family Arena. This is a class that is taught nationally to manage arthritis and to prevent falls. For more information call 636-949-3372.

Tuesdays: Women’s AA weekly meeting

Candlelighters Women in Recovery meets every Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Dardenne Prairie Presbyterian Church (enter at Adam Lamb pre-School, turn

Meets every Tuesday, 12:30 – 3:30 p.m. at The Falls Golf Course Clubhouse. Relaxed, friendly play and is open to all.

Call 314-954-3364 for info.

Tuesdays: Optimist Club meeting

The St. Charles Optimist Club meets Tuesdays at noon at Pio’s Restaurant. For more information contact Jack Ross at 314287-0569 or jack-ross@att.net.

Tuesdays: Cribbage

Looking for an evening out?

Come and play cribbage Tuesdays at 6 p.m. at Rookies at 15358 Veterans Memorial Pkwy in Wentzville. Win prizes and awards with semiannual tournaments. ACC sanctioned. For more information contact Dee at 636-233-8032.

Tuesdays: Diabetes support group

A diabetes support group meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month except November and December from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. at 400 Medical Plaza, Suite 102 in Lake St. Louis.

A new speaker each month.

Questions? Call Amanda Meyer at 636-625-5447.

Tuesdays: Kiwanis Club of St. Charles

12:05 p.m. at Ginghams Homestyle Restaurant, 1566 Country Clcub Plaza Drive, in St. Charles. Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time. The group is looking for new members who want to better our community and help its youth. If you are interested in making a positive impact in St. Charles for generations to come, please come for lunch. For more information call 636-206-2483. You can also visit http://stcharleskiwanis.com.

Tuesdays: Quilting Guild at the O’Fallon Family YMCA 1-4 p.m. Free. Quilt for local charities. No sewing experience required.

Tuesdays: Meeting

Toastmasters

7 p.m. at the Midwest Bank Centre Board Room at 2299 Technology Blvd., O’Fallon, MO 63368. Info: 636-3792505.

Tuesdays: St. Louis Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association Male Caregiver Experience The group meets on third

Tuesday of every month from 10-11:30 a.m. at the Alzheimer’s Chapter Office at 9370 Olive Blvd. For more information about Alzheimer’s disease, support, or the Male Caregiver Experience, please call the Alzheimer’s Association’s 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900 or visit www.alz.org/stl. Registration is requested before the first meeting.

Tuesdays: Social club for widows and widowers

On the first and third Tuesday of each month a social club for widows and widowers meets from 1:00 - 3:30 p.m. at St. John’s United Church of Christ at Fifth and Jackson Streets in St. Charles. On the first Tuesday there are refreshments and on the third Tuesday there is either a speaker or entertainment. The group also goes to breakfast, lunch and dinner monthly, and has a pot luck dinner each month.

Tuesdays: NAMI St. Louis Connection Recovery Support Group

If you have mental health concerns and need support, please come on the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at Grace United Church of Christ at 8326 Mexico Rd. in St. Peters.

Tuesdays: NAMI St. Louis Family Support Group

If you have a family member or friend who is having mental health concerns there is a support group for you. It meets on the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at Grace United Church of Christ at 8326 Mexico Rd. in St. Peters.

Tuesdays: Dardenne Presbyterian Church Basketball 8-9:30 p.m., in the Christian Life Center, 7400 South Outer 364 in Dardenne Prairie. Open to high school and adult men.

Tuesdays: Central Missouri Railroad Association meeting

This unique organization is for railroad modelers, railfans, photographers and railroad retirees with layouts in O, HO, N hoping to add G scales. Meetings are on second Tuesdays of the month from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Warrenton Masonic Lodge. For more info call 636279-5522 or 636-456-0776 or visit our Facebook page.

Tuesdays: Cancer support group

Cancer Companions Support Group is a support group for any cancer patient in treatment or post treatment, their caregiver and their loved ones that

meets on the second Tuesday of each month at Dardenne Presbyterian Church at 7400 South Outer 364 in Dardenne Prairie at 7 p.m. in the parlor.

Registration is not required.

Tuesdays: O’Fallon Garden Club

Meets at 6:30 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday of the month at Sunrise Methodist Church, 7116 Twin Chimney Blvd.

Info: Barb at 636.978.5930.

Club does not meet in May or November.

Tuesdays: St. Charles American Legion Post 312 spaghetti dinner.

5pm, St. Charles American Legion Post 312, 2500 Raymond Drive in St. Charles on the last Tuesday of the month. $6 per person. For more information call Post 312 at 636-947-7666.

Tuesdays and Thursdays: Tai Chi at the St. Charles County Family YMCA 10:15-11:15 a.m. No experience necessary. 636-928-1928.

Tuesdays and Thursdays: Get Fit Exercise Classes

9-10 a.m. at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church Hall, New Melle. 314-369-6521.

Wednesdays: TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) Club

TOPS 502 Wright City meets every Wednesday morning at First Baptist Church at 104 Hedeman Ave. in Wright City.

Weigh-in 7 - 8:30 a.m. Meeting starts at 9 a.m. For more information call 314-504-5202

Wednesdays: Food pantry

Food pantry open Wednesdays to the public from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Cornerstone UMC at 1151 Tom Ginnever Ave. in O’Fallon. Bread, canned goods other necessities.

Wednesdays: St. Charles Area Wood Carvers

Meetings are held from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. at the Hollenbeck Middle School at 4555 Central School Road in St. Charles.

Visitors are always welcome.

For more information visit http://www.stcharlesareawoodcarvers.com/ or contact Charles Sapp at cwsapp@charter.net.

Wednesdays: Quilt guild

Every Fourth Wednesday from January to October, the Loose Threads Quilt Guild meets at 6:45 p.m. at the Cultural Arts Centre at the St. Peters City Hall on Mexico Road in St. Peters.

Wednesdays: Marine Corps League meeting On the first Wednesday of each

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • February 2, 2022 month the St. Charles County Marine Corps League meets at Pezold Banquet Center, 5701 Hwy N, in Cottleville at 7:00 p.m. All Marines and FMF Corpsmen are welcome. For more information visit www. stcharlesmarine.org.

Wednesdays: fishing club

Women’s

Gateway Bass ‘n Gals all women’s bass club has monthly meetings the first Wednesday of every month at JJ’s Restaurant at 1215 S. Duchesne Dr. in St. Charles at 7 p.m. Women of any fishing level please come and check out our women-only fishing club.

Wednesdays: veterans coffee

Monthly

Veterans from all branches of service are invited to the Wentzville Green Lantern Senior Center at 506 S. Linn Ave. in Wentzville on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month from 9 – 10:30 a.m. for coffee, pastries and camaraderie. Come meet with fellow veterans who served our country and share your experience.

Wednesdays: Crossroads Cribbage Club

Meets at 1380 Boone St., at 12 p.m. in Troy. 636-528-8379.

Wednesdays: Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS)

Take Off Pounds Sensibly meets every Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. in the United Methodist Church at 725 N. Wall St. in Wentzville. TOPS is a national non-profit weightloss organization that supports its members in attaining their goal weight. There is no cost for the first meeting. All are welcome.

Wednesdays: Men’s Golf League

Wednesdays, April - October.

5 p.m., tee off at 5:30 p.m. at Heritage of Hawk Ridge. For more information, contact the Lake St. Louis Community Association at 636-625-8276.

Wednesdays: Charity Bingo

6:45pm, Doors open at 5 p.m.

VFW Post 5077 sponsors, at VFW Hall, 8500 Veterans Mem. Pkwy., O’Fallon.

636-272-1945 or www.vfwpost5077.org.

Wednesdays: Yoga at The St. Charles County Family YMCA 6-6:55pm Any level. Info: 636928-1928.

Wednesdays: Healing

Hope &

5-6pm, Dardenne Presbyteri-

an Rock Church, 7400 South Outer 364 in Dardenne Prairie on the first Wednesday of the month. Unique service of music, worship, and prayer for those in need of hope and healing.

Wednesdays: St. Charles Area Wood Carvers

7 p.m. – 9 p.m. Meetings are held at the Hollenbeck Middle School at 4555 Central School Road, St. Charles, Missouri on the first and third Wednesday of the month. Visitors are always welcome! For more information check the club web site: www.stcharlesareawoodcarvers.com/ or contact Charles Sapp.

Wednesdays: Take Pounds Sensibly

Off

Take Off Pounds Sensibly meets every Wednesday at 10 a.m. in the parish hall of Chapel of the Cross Lutheran Church at 907 Jungermann Rd. in St. Peters. TOPS is a national non-profit weight-loss organization that supports its members in attaining their goal weight. There is no cost for the first meeting. All are welcome. Weigh-ins begin at 9 a.m. Contact Judy Bauer at 636-541-2263 for further information.

Thursdays: St. Charles Rotary Club Meeting

St. Charles Rotary Club meets at noon at The Moose Lodge at 2705 Veterans Memorial Pkwy. In St Charles. Members and guests are welcome for lunch, leadership development and to gain a better insight into our community. www.stcharlesrotary.org.

Thursdays: American Legion meeting

On the first Thursday of each month, American Legion Post 323 meets at 7:30 p.m. at the American Legion Hall at 504 Luetkenhaus Blvd. in Wentzville. For more information call 636-327-6060.

Thursdays: Lions Club meeting

Wentzville Outreach Lions Club meets the second Thursday of the month at Schnucks at 1960 Wentzville Pkwy in Wentzville at 6 p.m. Contact Jimmy Butler at 314-780-5629 or Lisa Alexander at 314-2581069 for more information.

Thursdays: TOPS meeting

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) Club 661 Wentzville holds meetings every Thursday in room 21 at The United Methodist Church of Wentzville, 725 Wall Street. Weigh ins at 9:30, meetings begin at 10 a.m. For more information call 314-650-1014.

Thursdays: O’Fallon Rotary Club meetings

O’Fallon Rotary Club meets from 7:30 - 8:30 a.m. at Rendezvous Café & Wine Bar at 217 S. Main St. in O’Fallon every Thursday. Visitors are always welcome. For more information, call President, Lisa Muncy at 636-240-0912.

Thursdays: Optimist Club meetings

The O’Fallon Optimist Club meets on the second and fourth Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at Bank of Old Monroe T.R. Hughes Blvd. in O’Fallon. For more information, contact CyndySchwab at 636-544-0102.

Thursdays: Lions Club meetings

St. Charles Lions Club meets every second and fourth Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. at 1144 S Benton Street in St. Charles. Contact Art for more info at 636-441-1831.

New members are welcome.

3rd Thursday: Fleur de Lis Garden Club

Meets third Thursday of the month, 10:00 a.m. at the McClay Library in St. Charles.

Club does not meet in December. Info: www.fleurdelisgardenclub.org;

3rd Thursdays: Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 458 Meeting

7pm, Amvets Post 106, 360 Brown Rd in St. Peters.

Those who served in any branch between 1962 and 1975 are welcome.

Every Thursday: Dardenne Presbyterian Church Quilters

9am-2pm, Dardenne Presbyterian Church, 7400 South Outer 364 in Dardenne Prairie.

Members do hand quilting to quilts of any size for donation that is given to various church supported charities. No experience is necessary to join the group. For more information, contact Brenda Kenny at 636.240.3753.

1st and 3rd Thursday: Kiwanis Club of O’Fallon Meets at JJ’s Restaurant, 200 Fort Zumwalt Square in O’Fallon at 12 noon Info: www.ofkiwanis.com.

Every Thursday: Rotary Club meeting

7:30am, The Rendezvous Café at 217 South Main St. in O’Fallon. We welcome existing and potential members to visit and have breakfast with us. www. ofallonmo.rotary-clubs.org

What’s Happening

Every Thursday: Active Older Adults Game Day at the O’Fallon Family YMCA

Every Friday: Moms Play Group

2nd and 4th Thursdays: Alexander Chapter #242 Order of the Eastern Star Meetings

Every Friday: VFW Fish Fry

10a.m. - 2 p.m. in the Family Hall. Free for members. Bring a favorite snack to share. Anybody welcome.

7:30pm, St. Charles Masonic Lodge, 2051 Collier Corporate Parkway in St. Charles.

3rd Thursday of each month: Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 458 meetings 7pm, Amvets Post 106, 360 Brown Rd in St. Peters.

2nd and 4th Thursdays: Lions Club meetings

St. Charles County Lions Club meets second and fourth Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at 1144 S Benton in St. Charles. New members welcome.

Fridays: Frühschoppen Stammtisch Verein (FSV)

The last Friday of every month the Frühschoppen Stammtisch Verein (FSV) meets at 11 a.m. at a designated location within St Charles County. Wir treffen uns auf ein Bier (und vielleicht spät Frühstück oder früh Mittagessen) und geniessen ein Gespräch auf Deutsch.

At present we do not have a specific Stammlokal. The FSV Month meeting location can be found on Facebook at (https://www.facebook.com/ groups/472022532983525) alternately it can be requested from the FSV coordinator at (d.yarolimek@sbcglobal. net). Hoffenlich sehen wir uns irgendwann. Bis dann, bleib gesund.! Alles gute!

10am at LSL Community Association, 100 Cognac Ct., Lake Saint Louis, MO 63367.

314.479.0306, andreacrislip@ gmail.com or www.lslmothersclub.com.

3-8pm VFW Post 2866. 66 VFW Lane. Call Bill Sams, 636.724.9612.

Fridays: Bingo

The American Legion Post 312, located at 2500 Raymond Dr. in St. Charles hosts bingo, every Friday night. This is a non-smoking hall with games starting at 6:15 p.m. and includes two progressive bingo games per night. See more at www.alpost312mo.org

Every Saturday: Chess

9-12 at Middendor-Kredell Library on Hwy K.

Every Saturday: Veterans Learn guitar for FREE

9:30am in Historic St. Charles. Info: Bill Dennis at 314.479.5750.

Every Saturday: Peaceful Puppy Mill Protest

11am - 12:30pm at Petland, 6131 Ronald Reagan Drive, Lake St. Louis. banmo.puppymills@yahoo.com.

Second and Fourth Saturday of the month: Charitable bingo

Bingo starts at 6:30 p.m., doors open at 4 p.m. at the Wentzville Community Club located at 500 West Main in Wentzville. For more information visit www.wentzvillecommunityclub.com or www.facebook.com/wentzville-community-club

1st & 3rd Saturday: St Peters Square Dance Club Dances Pre ropund dance fom 7 - 7:30 p.m., dancing from 7:30 - 10 p.m. 1st United Methodist Church, 801 First Capital Dr. www.squaredancemissouri. com/Missouri/St.Louis

3rd Saturdays: Restore St. Charles Work Day.

8am, Dardenne Presbyterian Church, 7400 South Outer 364 in Dardenne Prairie.

Volunteer labor needed to provide the needy in our community with adequate living accommodations. Continental breakfast, safety instructions, and job assignments provided before work begins.

Sundays: Flea market

Wentzville Community Club’s Sunday Flea Market set up is at 6:30 a.m. and selling starts at 7 a.m. every Sunday through 1 p.m. at 500 West Main Street in Wentzville. Buyers and sellers welcome. More information can be found at www. wentzvillefleamarket.org.

Every Sunday: Wentzville Community Club Flea Market

5:30 a.m.-1pm, 500 West Main St. in Wentzville. For more information, call 636.357.4328.

Sundays: Alzheimer’s support group

The group meets the second Sunday of the month from 1:00-2:30 pm. Everyone is welcome. We meet at Clarendale Senior Living at 10 Dubray Drive in St. Peters.

For more information, please call Nancy Young at 636-8753457.

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

SUDOKU answers from page F-1

9

CROSSWORD answers from page F-4

10

Sports

JFebruary 2, 2022 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

Sports you see with Gary B . . .

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Ambush at halfway point in season The St. Louis Ambush play professional indoor soccer in the MASL with their home games at the Family Arena in St. Charles.

The league is playing an abbreviated season hitting the field only 24 times for the 2021-2022 campaign.

Thus far the team finds themselves with five wins to go with seven defeats landing them in second place in the Central Division.

Statistics for the team: *Mohamed Ndiaye is leading the team with eight goals and 15 assists with 23 points playing in 11 games. *JT Thomas has found the back of the net 12 times with five assists with 17 points in nine games. *Vadim Cojocov has registered 10 goals with three assists picking up 13 points on the field in 10 games. *William Eskay has 10 goals and two assists with 12 points in 12 games. *Ado Jahic has seven goals and four assists with 11 points playing in 11 games. *Eduardo “Pollo” Cortes playing as a goalie, has been between the pipes in four games starting three of them and has racked up three wins-he has had 84 shots-to-the-goal at him and with only 20 getting by him.

Interim head coach Jeff Locker and his team plenty to work on as they embark on the second half of the season.

The Ambush returns to The Family Arena to host The Savage on Feb. 11.

Visit www.STLAmbush.com for more details. *Find the magic streak Lindenwood sets 19 records and win three events at replays Lindenwood University’s track and field teams took small contingents on a short trip across the river to compete in the Principia Relays recently in Elsah, Illinois.

The Lions came away with three first place finishes including a career best in the weight throw from Ashley Shoemake. Her weight throw of 15.64 meters (51.3 feet) was good enough to win the competition and moved her up to fifth place in the school record books.

On the men’s side, Jameel Walkes-Miller won the 60-meter race (65.6168 yards) in a time of 6.88 seconds, which tied him for the ninth fastest time in school history, while Logan Kulinski continued his impressive season with another NCAA provisional mark while winning the weight throw.

Other notables included: *Shot put – Alea Farmer 11.30 meters (12.3 yards) good enough for fourth place *Pole vault – Gage Rowland (3.95m) placing third *Excellent results from a lot of practice UMSL pick up a few accolades at the relays The University of Missouri-St. Louis track and field team also participated in the Principia Relays in Elsah, Illinois as well.

A major member of the track team was Benjamin Vandenbrink who took first place in the mile run with a time of 4:25.55.

The men’s distance relay team placed second with a time of 10:41.79 and Haeley Johnson placed 13th in the 60m.

On the women’s side, Lily Wagemann placed eighth in the mile run with her time of 5:57.52. *A lot of action on the track and field

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, and is 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 • February 2, 2022

Recipe: Take a bite of a better-for-you energy booster

W

hether you’re a runner, a workout warrior or simply looking for a quick pick-me-up before heading to the office, graband-go foods can supply the energy you need for an active day.

Skipping salty snacks and opting for nutritious options can put you ahead of the game. Due to their high carbohydrate content, sweetpotatoes provide a sustaining option both before and after exercise sessions. Plus, with antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and aid in the muscle repair process, they help both your endurance and recovery.

No-Bake Sweetpotato Coconut Ginger Energy Bites

Feature

F-1

– 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.

Recipe courtesy of Sarah Schlichter, MPH, RDN, on behalf of the North Carolina SweetPotato Commission

Total time: 45 minutes | Yield: 14 bites (1 bite per serving)

Ingredients: 1

cup cooked sweetpotato

3/4 cup rolled oats 1/2 cup peanut butter (or desired nut butter) 3

tablespoons honey

stir until well combined.

1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

Refrigerate bowl about 20 minutes to firm.

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut

Directions: In large bowl, combine sweetpotato, oats, peanut butter, honey, ginger and cinnamon;

Line baking sheet with parchment paper.

Remove dough and portion into snack-sized bites. Gently roll bites in shredded coconut and refrigerate 15-20 minutes or freeze 10 minutes.

Remove from refrigerator or freezer and serve.

Nutritional information per serving: 115 calories; 7 g fat (11% daily value); 3 g saturated fat (19% daily value); 1 g polysaturated fat; 2 g monosaturated fat; 49 mg sodium (2% daily value); 129 mg potassium (4% daily value); 11 g carbohydrates (4% daily value); 2 g fiber (8% daily value); 5 g sugar (6% daily value); 3 g protein (6% daily value); 1,348 IU vitamin A (27% daily value); 1 mg vitamin C (1% daily value); 11 mg calcium (1% daily value); 1 mg iron (6% daily value); 9 g net carbohydrates.

Find more nutritious recipe ideas at ncsweetpotatoes.com.

SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 9

The pressures of child stardom

D

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.

uring the Christmas season, families have looked forward to watching “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” a beloved holiday special that debuted on CBS in 1965. Reportedly, the creative minds behind the animated classic were convinced that it would flop on national TV, but the combination of animation and wonderful music made it a huge hit.

Ownership of the holiday special changed hands over the years and now Apple TV+ holds the rights.

However, Apple agreed to let PBS show “A Charlie Brown Christmas” every year during the holidays.

During production of the special, child actor Peter Robbins became the first person to give Charlie Brown a voice. Sadly, Mr. Robbins, who reportedly had a history of mental illness, committed suicide this month. In addition to the Christmas special, Robbins also voiced the famous character in “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” and the wonderful 1969 feature film “A Boy Named Charlie Brown.” Over the years, Robbins appeared at various comic book and pop culture conventions and met with his fans.

Reading about Robbins’ struggles brought

children who moved in with their Uncle Bill (Brian Keith) after their parents were killed. The popular series ran for five seasons and Jones’ Buffy character was a hit with children watching the show.

As a teenager, she auditioned for other projects, including the lead role in 1973’s “The Exorcist,” but she became frustrated and felt typecast as Buffy. In 1976, Jones sadly died of a drug overdose.

Some retro TV channels broadcast “Dennis the Menace,” a sitcom Submitted photo: Peter Robbins based on Hank Ketcham’s popular comic strip character. Jay North played the title role, a mischieto mind Paul Petersen, the actor who played Jeff Stone on the 1950’s sitcom “The Donna vous, curious boy who inadvertently caused Reed Show.” Petersen began his career as a trouble for his long-suffering neighbor, Mr. Mouseketeer on the TV series “The Mick- Wilson. However, North’s happy onscreen ey Mouse Club” and had recorded some hit grin masked physical and verbal abuse delivsongs. After former child star Russell Craig ered by his aunt and uncle, who were his on“Rusty” Hamer from “The Danny Thomas set guardians. In one video interview, North Show” committed suicide in 1990, Petersen said his relatives kept him sequestered in his founded “A Minor Consideration,” a non- dressing room between scenes. He said he felt profit organization that reached out to former like he was in prison and, ironically, he later child stars who had difficulty transitioning to took a job in a prison.

Acting is a tough business, especially for adult roles and other careers. child actors. It’s good to know that Paul PeDecades before that organization was founded, Anissa Jones starred on the sitcom tersen’s “A Minor Consideration” is around to “Family Affair.” She played Buffy, one of three help.

F-2

Feature

COLLECTIBLES

February 2, 2022 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

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

It has never been known to fail.

Thank you, St. Jude. R.H.

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February 2, 2022 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

Yeggs

John Hanna

CROSSWORD: Super Bowl

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

By Cindy Moore

Moore on Life People beware.

Technology is overtaking our lives.

Between email and text notifications and app and social media alerts, we’re becoming consumed with noise and notices.

Sounds like other people’s problem. I know I can handle it.

The other day I got an incoming ding-ding from an app which lets me receive videos from the grandkids. My grandson’s tooth fell out and he needed to show me his toothy grin.

Soon after, a ring-ring sounded. It was a FaceTime alert. Yup, my grandson again. He wasn’t sure the video gave his tooth the justice it deserved. He wanted me to see a live close-up of the bloody socket from where the tooth detached, but mainly it was to remind me that I promised him five bucks when it fell out.

Next, I got a chirpy-chirp from Pinterest. What?!

Someone had just pinned something that I repinned from someone who had re-pinned from someone who…whatever, I still had to check it out. After all, it was so validating. I think it means I’ve arrived. I don’t know where to, but it’s somewhere and I just might be there.

Then I got a ping-a-ping from my Facebook account. Oh joy! Someone liked a post I shared.

Really?! It was a picture of my cat in his New Year’s Eve hat and glasses. But that was weeks ago. Still, I checked because someone liked me; they really, really liked me and you know…validation!

While I checked the number of likes my cat post received, I got a ting-a-ling. A friend request!

Someone wanted to be added to my group. More

validation.

Hmm, I was a little suspicious. It came from someone in Ooglazistan.

Where the heck’s Ooglazistan? Probably a little island off the coast of Nebraska, but my spidey-senses were sending out signals to beware.

Not so fast! I am so-o aware of these lame scams. After all, I have a very close online contact.

I pay him big bucks to filter out just such con jobs.

Money well spent. I shouldn’t brag, but I might add that he’s a Nigerian Prince and we’re pretty tight business partners.

So, this alert overload hubbub is a non-issue for me.

Well, gotta go. I’ve got a chirp-pop to answer. It’s my new friend from Ooglazistan – an upstanding young man, according to the Prince. He needs a loan to invest in a cat farm. Sounds totally legit to me.

Going ding batty

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. Shout from a ship?

5. Shout from the bleachers 8. ____ and don’ts 11. Infamous Henry’s number 12. One with COVID, e.g.

13. Fighter jet button 15. Resting stops 16. Not guilty, e.g.

17. One of Singapore’s official languages 18. *Home of last year’s Super Bowl winners 20. Armor chest plate 21. *Given name of 2011 Super Bowl MVP 22. African grazer 23. Greek woodland deities 26. Ramones’ hit “I Wanna Be ____” 30. Big fuss 31. Like certain Chili Peppers (2 words) 34. Cattle call goal 35. Scatterbrained 37. Bonehead 38. In a different direction 39. Jeté in ballet 40. More so than eggy 42. Conducted 43. Christmas firewood (2 words) 45. Annotator and

commentator 47. Soda-pop container 48. Unpleasant and offensive 50. SWAT attack, e.g.

52. *Super Bowl I and II winning coach 55. Pertaining to a pope 56. Cain’s unfortunate brother 57. Gives a hand 59. Anoint 60. Bébé’s mother 61. Season to be jolly 62. *Most Super Bowl wins by one team 63. Snoop 64. Carhop’s load DOWN 1. *Roman number of this year’s Super Bowl 2. “___ Misbehavin’” 3. Santa Maria’s traveling partner 4. Despair in the face of obstacles 5. “The Hobbit” hobbit 6. “Caribbean Queen” singer 7. Colloquial approval 8. Cold cuts counter 9. South American tubers 10. Pig’s digs 12. Not dense 13. Make corrections

14. *Florida team with no Super Bowl appearances 19. Return punch 22. Come and ____ it 23. Lamentably 24. Bye, to Edith Piaf 25. Bottom line 26. *2022 Super Bowl stadium 27. Upholstery choice 28. *Archie to Super Bowl MVPs Peyton and Eli 29. Exploits 32. *Super Bowl Halftime show Snoops’s “last name” 33. Hardly a beauty 36. *Like some teams 38. Oenophile’s concern 40. Many, many moons 41. Empower 44. Big Dipper’s visible shape 46. Oppressive ruler 48. On the wagon 49. Nail salon board 50. Feminine of raja 51. Mt. Everest to Earth 52. Aladdin’s light 53. Christian of fashion 54. Result of a brainstorm 55. Rudolf Nureyev’s step 58. Stallone’s nickname SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 9