CNSTC: February 3, 2021

February 3, 2021

Taking the plunge

Around Town

Chimney fire damages St. Charles home. Pg. 4 Lawn mowing assistance available for seniors or residents with disabilities.

Pg. 5 Trail Assist boxes installed in St. Charles County Parks. Pg. 6

School SCCC Foundation seeking nominations for Distinguished Alumni Award.

Pg. 7

Features

Photo courtesy Special Olympics Missouri The 18th Annual Polar Plunge will be held on Saturday at Lake St. Louis Community Association, 100 Cognac Ct., Lake St. Louis. The Lake St. Louis, O’Fallon, St. Charles County, and Wentzville police departments will have representatives there as all proceeds from the event benefit Special Olympics Missouri.

The 18th Annual Polar Plunge will be held in Lake St. Louis where participants jump into freezing cold waters to benefit Special Olympics Missouri

By Brett Auten Crazy costumes and chilly waters make for an annual concoction that benefits Special Olympics Missouri.

The 18th Annual Polar Plunge will be held on Saturday in Lake St. Louis with the Lake St. Louis, O’Fallon, St. Charles County and Wentzville police departments dispatching calls for all prospective “Polar Bears.”

All proceeds from the event benefit individuals with intellectual disabilities served

by Special Olympics Missouri. This year’s goal is 380 Plungers and $90,000. Organizers across the state hope to break the mil-

lion-dollar mark this year with 11 events.

Special Olympics Missouri is a yearround life-changing program for more than 16,000 children and adults with intellectual disabilities throughout the state.

The relationship with Special Olympics Missouri is the result of a very long standing partnership between the nonprofit and the law enforcement community as a whole. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics. What started out as a one-day run in Kansas has evolved into a number of events organized by law enforcement to support Special Olympics athletes

around the globe. The Polar Plunge is one of the premier Law Enforcement Torch Run fundraising events in the state of Missouri.

“The reason the Polar Plunge is so popular is because of law enforcement,” Stacey Koeller, Director of Development of Special Olympics Missouri, said. “They make it all possible.”

Susie Ochs. Community Resource Officer with the Lake St. Louis Police Department said the success of this event can be attributed to the continued collaboration between many entities.

See ‘PLUNGE’ page 2

Serving St. Louis, St. Charles and Lincoln Counties | FREE Online at mycnews.com | Vol.23 No. 5| 636-379-1775

Recipe, Movie & Sudoku.

Pg. F-1 CLASSIFIEDS AND HOME & GARDEN. Pg. F-2 /F-3 Moore On Life, Yeggs & Crossword. Pg. F-4

Weather FRIDAY Sunny 38/25 SATURDAY Cloudy 30/7 SUNDAY Cloudy 14/7

2

Around Town

February 3, 2021 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

LET YOUR BUSINESS MEET OUR READERS

READER SURVEY RESULTS

of our readers purchased from our advertisers in the past 90 days.

For advertising

636-379-1775 info@mycnews.com

Photos courtesy Special Olympics Missouri The 18th Annual Polar Plunge will be held on Saturday at Lake St. Louis Community Association, 100 Cognac Ct., Lake St. Louis. The Lake St. Louis, O’Fallon, St. Charles County, and Wentzville police departments will have representatives there as all proceeds from the event benefit Special Olympics Missouri.

‘PLUNGE’ from cover “The Lake Saint Louis Community Association, the law enforcement agencies, and Special Olympics Missouri all work together to keep this event going year after year,” Ochs said. “Without the support of the community association, we would not have the great location we have to hold this event.”

The Polar Plunge is open to anyone 10-years-or-older who wants to have a memorable time for a good cause. The event will take place at Lake St. Louis Community Association (100 Cognac Ct., Lake St. Louis).

There are several precautions in place to ensure a safe in-person event, to include staggered start times, social distancing, sanitizing stations, and mask requirements. A virtual plunge option is also being offered this year giving people an opportunity to plunge their way. Staggered start times or Jurassic Waves are assigned to each plunger/team, with the first wave set to begin at 10 a.m. Event day registrations are welcome and will be added to Jurassic Waves in a way that is safe for all participants.

“On a typical year it is a large gathering of costumed plungers in an exciting environment,” Ochs said. “Even though the plunge will look very different this year due to COVID-19 restrictions, it will still be a lot of fun. We may not be able to have a large gathering of people and spectators, but participants will still make it fun with

their creative costumes and their enthusiasm.”

Each participant is required to raise a minimum $75 to participate in the Polar Plunge. All plungers will receive an official Polar Plunge commemorative shirt.

Participants can also receive incentives for reaching fundraising goals: $250 – Polar Plunge towel; $500 – Backpack; $1,000 – Columbia Jacket; $2,000 - $150 Visa gift card.

“On a typical year it is a large gathering of costumed plungers in an exciting environment.

Even though the plunge will look very different this year due to COVID-19 restrictions, it will still be a lot of fun. We may not be able to have a large gathering of people and spectators, but participants will still make it fun with their creative costumes and their enthusiasm.” ~ Susie Ochs Community Resource Officer Lake St. Louis Police Department The easiest and most efficient way to register and fund raise is online. Just visit

the 2021 Polar Plunge Lake Saint Louis Special Olympics Missouri link at somo. org, sign up, and email your friends and family to support your plunge. Paper registration forms are also available at the SOMO St. Louis Area Office. Mail or deliver pre-registration forms and the minimum $75 contribution to Special Olympics Missouri Plunge – 2945 S. Brentwood Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63144.

Prizes will be awarded for costumes and top fundraisers in several categories.

“People are very creative,” Koeller said. “We will be handing out our annual Plunger Awards, which are actual gold painted plungers.”

Polar Plunge sponsors for Lake St. Louis include: iHeart Media, BOOST 95.5, Lake St. Louis Community Association, Premier Rental, Purpose Wrecker, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Missouri, UMB Bank of St. Louis.

For more information about the Polar Plunge, contact Koellervat 314-961-7755 or email at koeller@somo.org.

“The plunge is also a unique event during a time of year when people are looking for fun things to do,” Ochs said.

“Many of the participants come back year after year, some are there to check an item off their bucket list, and many are there specifically to raise money and show support of Special Olympic athletes.”

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • February 3, 2021

St. Charles County Assessor mails 2021 personal property assessment forms The St. Charles County Assessor mailed approximately 178,000 personal property assessment forms for 2021. Completed assessment forms are due to the assessor by March 1.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, taxpayers are strongly encouraged to file personal property using contactless methods: online, by mail, or in the drive-through drop box in front of the County Administration Building at 201 N. Second Street in St. Charles.

Ways to File • Online – Individual personal property owners have the option to file online after receiving the assessment form in the mail. The e-filing website, account number, and unique secure access code for the individual personal property owner are printed in a purple box on the top third of the form. The e-filing website also will be available through the Assessor’s website, sccmo.org/Assessor. Those who filed online in previous years should note that the unique access code changes each year.

“This is the fastest and most efficient way to submit a personal property assessment, and more and more residents take advantage of this opportunity since we launched e-filing in 2013,” says Scott Shipman, St. Charles County Assessor.

“E-filing also allows personal property owners to save and print their completed 2021 assessment for their records after it’s submitted.”

• Mail – Complete the form and send to: St. Charles County Assessor, 201 N. Second Street, Room 141, St. Charles, MO 63301.

• Drop Box – Completed assessment forms must be submitted in the blue-labeled "County" drive-through drop box in front of the County Administration Building at 201 N. Second Street in St. Charles. Please note: A form placed in the “City” drop box could result in penalties for the related account if the assessor does not receive it by March 1.

• In Person – Again, taxpayers are strongly encouraged to file personal property through contactless methods due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Those who wish to file in person can do so at the Assessor’s service windows at the County Administration Building,

201 N. Second Street in St. Charles, 8 a.m.–5 p.m., Monday–Friday, excluding holidays. Forms also may be submitted in the indoor drop box located on the first floor of the Administration Building. Visitors will need to undergo a COVID-19 health screening upon entering the building and register for the assessor’s queue through the QLess kiosk in the lobby, through the QLess app on their mobile device, or through the QLess link available at sccmo.org/ Assessor or sccmo.org/QLess. Monitors in the lobby and a text notification on a mobile device will update those in the queue, and visitors will be alerted visually and audibly through the monitor or their mobile device when it is their turn to approach the windows. Staff at the security desk in the lobby are available to assist with QLess registration.

Additional Personal Property Assessment Information By state law, the assessor is charged with placing a fair market value on real and personal property, as property tax in Missouri is based on property value. Personal property assessments must be filed annually by those who own personal property and live in St. Charles County as of Jan. 1. Examples of personal property include vehicles, motorcycles, campers, boats and farm equipment. Those who fail to complete their personal property assessment may be charged a late-filing penalty up to $105. Additionally, failing to file a personal property assessment form may delay the ability to renew or register license plates for a vehicle.

“The tax rate for everyone in the county is impacted by those who do not declare their personal property,” Shipman adds. “A fair and equitable distribution of taxes is assured when everyone submits the form by the deadline.”

Residents can visit https://lookups.sccmo. org/assessor/form to verify that the assessor has received their completed assessment.

Verification of assessment receipt is posted within two business days for online filing and as soon as possible for mail and drop box submissions after the assessment is received and processed. For questions about assessments, or if you are a new resident in the county and need to be added to the assessor’s records, call the Personal Property office at 636-949-7420. For information about assessments and taxes, visit sccmo.org/Assessor.

Around Town

Like Us On Facebook facebook.com/mycnews

www.seniorshelpingseniors.com/stlouiscentral

2938 Hwy K @ Hwy N, O’Fallon, MO

636.978.7870 www.krekeler.com www.krekeler.com

3

4

Around Town

February 3, 2021 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

Chimney fire damages St. Charles home

WHERE CAN YOU GET Pick up a at all 35 Dierbergs & Schnucks stores in St. Charles County and North and Northwest St. Louis County

OR READ US ONLINE AT MYCNEWS.COM

?

When a St. Charles homeowner went to the back yard to retrieve additional firewood for her fire place, little did she know that her home was on fire. Seeing smoke coming from her attic she quickly called 911 to summon St. Charles City firefighters.

When St. Charles City firefighters arrived at approximately 3:32 p.m., they found heavy smoke and fire coming from the attic. Once they learned that everyone was safely out of the house, the team began fighting the fire.

Once the flames were extinguished, St. Charles City fire investigators spoke with the occupant and reviewed the scene. They determined that a bird’s nest located in the flue chase had caught fire and extended into the attic space. Damage to the home and contents is estimated to be over $80,000.

There were no injuries to occupants or firefighters during the fire.

“Each year several homes in the city of St. Charles are severely damaged due to birds or squirrels building nest near or in chimney flues.

That is why the St. Charles City Fire Department recommends that you have your fireplace or wood stove flue checked for damage or obstructions each year,” stated Fire Chief George Sheets.

Submitted photo St. Charles City firefighters work to put out a chimney fire.

Please contact the Saint Charles City Fire Department at 636-949-3250 for further information on home fire safety.

Inspiration Corner:

How to be brave

“I didn’t before know how much anybody could suffer and not die.” – David Crockett David Crockett was out of powder for his gun, but it was nearly Christmas and his family needed to eat. He had recently set up a new home in a remote section near the Rutherford Fork of Obion River after losing a gristmill, powder-mill and a distillery at Shoal Creek to a large flood. He was broke, but not helpless. He was also handy with a rifle. The only problem was the barrel of powder he needed was across the flooded Obion River and he did not have a boat.

By his own account the “the stream was at least a mile wide” but he “determined to go on over in some way or other.” His wife tried to talk him out of it but given the choice between starvation or freezing to death, he chose the latter.

The snow was four inches deep when he reached the edge of the water—”which looked like an ocean.” By skill and ingenuity, he made it across— though not before he had lost all feeling in his feet and legs. He carried a set of dry clothes in a bag and quickly put those on before he hiked the last leg of his journey—five miles to his brotherin-law’s house. And that was the easy half of the journey.

He wrote, “The next morning was bitter cold, but I knowed my family was without meat, and I determined to get home to them, or die a-trying.”

He looked out over the river of ice, but he did not despair. Instead, he mustered his will and pressed forward.

We little know the trauma of fording a frozen river, but our days are no less bleak. Many of us

have lost our livelihoods or worse – someone we love. One dear friend of mine recently welcomed an adult son home because he is struggling with crippling anxiety. Their days are fraught with emotional outbursts and a sense of helpless waiting. How do they press forward when their limbs are stiff and sore, and hope seems like a mirage in the distance?

First, we must acknowledge the challenge before us. It is real and it is frightening.

Second, we must accept that the only way to conquer the trial is to walk through it. The good news is, we don’t have to face it alone. Reach out to friends who are dealing with the same struggles and join arms to walk through it together. Support groups are one good way to manage the “unmanageable.” Churches are another. God shows no partiality when it comes to suffering and is willing and able to help us.

Third, don’t quit! I like David Crockett’s approach. He was determined to “get home or die trying.” He did that because he had people dependent on him. He also survived because he was brave. Courage is not a feeling, it’s a decision we make.

Margaret Wolfinbarger is a wife and mother of three peculiar children.

She lives in St. Charles and likes to shine light into dark places.

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • February 3, 2021

St. Charles County youth win community art contest The Community & Children’s Resource Board (CCRB) announced the selection of Minnie Adams, a senior at Francis Howell North High School and Sebastian Bierhals, a freshman at Lutheran High School as co-winners of an art contest for St. Charles County high school students.

As winners, both students will re-create their concepts on canvas and the finished artwork will be installed at the CCRB office in May 2021.

The art contest was sponsored by the CCRB as a creative way to bring in youth voice to the CCRB office and to recognize talented young artists. The CCRB was inspired by the service providers who use art therapy and other art-based programs to help youth living with mental health conditions.

In October 2020, the CCRB invited students from all area high schools, alternative programs, and homeschool students to submit a conceptual piece to be considered for display in the CCRB’s office. A total of six submissions were received from students across the county. The contest theme was “St. Charles County Youth & Community,” intended to reflect youth perception of St. Charles County or issues relevant to their lives.

Collaborative projects were encouraged and local art teachers were asked to act as a point of contact for students participating in the contest.

Adams was mentored by art teacher, Courtney Flamm, and art teacher Carla Krazl mentored Bierhals. The CCRB was impressed by the level of talent shown in all submissions, making it difficult to narrow down the selection.

Adams and Bierhals were chosen for their skill in interpreting the theme, as well as their artistic vision. Adams’ work titled “Sushi in St. Charles” features a diverse group of teens sitting together at a local restaurant. Adams is pleased at this opportunity and for her it means her hard work through the years has paid off.

Following high school, Ad-

Around Town

5

Spring and summer lawn mowing assistance available for seniors or residents with disabilities St. Peters residents who are seniors or who have disabilities could qualify to have their lawns mowed up to 10 times between April 1 and Oct. 1 through the city’s Lawn Mowing Assistance Program.

Applications for the program are available online beginning Feb. 1 and must be submitted by 5 p.m. Feb. 12.

To qualify, homeowners must meet established guidelines and income levels. Everyone living in the home must be at least 62 years old or have severe disabilities. Applicants are required to provide proof of income. The maximum household income may not exceed the following levels: • One-person household ($29,050) • Two-person household ($33,200) • Three-person household ($37,350) • Four-person household ($41,450) • To download an application for the program beginning Feb. 1, go online to www.stpetersmo.net/cdbg-programs. aspx and select Lawn Mowing Assistance.

You may also request to have an application mailed to you starting Feb. 1 by calling 636-279-8279 and choosing Option 4.

Be sure to spell your name and provide your street address, and leave a phone number that can be used to contact you.

Completed applications with required documents must be returned to St. Peters City Hall before 5 p.m. on Feb. 12. Applicants may also email completed applications, with required documents, to communityprojects@stpetersmo.net.

The city received Community Development Block Grant funds for the Lawn Mowing Assistance Program from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Funds will be disbursed based on lowest income first, then by time the applications were received.

Submitted photos (Top) Minnie Adams, a senior at Francis Howell North High School was co-winner of an art contest for St. Charles County high school students for her work “Sushi in St. Charles.”

(Bottom) Sebastian Bierhals, a freshman at Lutheran High School was co-winner of an art contest for St. Charles County high school students for his work “Masking our Feelings.”

ams said she plans “to use my artistic talent to become an exterior and interior architect. I want to use my skills and creativity to create new and inventive styles for buildings.”

Bierhals’ work, “Masking our Feelings” reflects feelings of anxiety, depression, and pain youth feel because of bullying and cyberbullying.

Bierhals explained, “The issue in the art piece I try to show is bullying is a huge issue, by showing someone being happy, but behind them is their true feelings, which can be sadness, depression, or anxiety. This pain that people go through is terrible. I made this piece to tell the viewer… that I feel your pain. Some may be on the brink of emotional

breakdown…or dying because of someone telling hem they’re not good enough…I want people to feel; feel not alone.”

The Community and Children’s Resource Board (CCRB) is the administrator the Community Children’s Service Fund, a fund created when St. Charles County passed a 1/8cent sales tax measure in November 2004. The funds are dedicated for services to St. Charles County children and youth, and are awarded to local agencies to provide services that address the growing unmet mental health needs of our community youth.

Like Us On Facebook facebook.com/mycnews

6

Around Town

February 3, 2021 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

St. Charles County Golden Games announces 2021 Trail Assist boxes installed in St. Charles County Parks plans and potential dates The St. Charles County Golden Games Board of Directors has decided to postpone the games traditionally held in the spring to the early fall; starting Sept. 17 through Sept. 23. These dates were selected to avoid conflict with other Senior Games that traditionally take place during this time. The board meets monthly and will continue to review the situation. The goal is to offer outdoor events at the very minimum.

Several factors are involved in holding the games including county statutes, the availability of facilities, and the comfort level of the numerous volunteers needed to operate the games.

Many of the Golden Games are held at senior facilities, and it is unlikely they will be able to participate at all this year.

A survey of Golden Games participants indicated the majority were not comfortable attending a banquet and supported a cancellation for one year; so, the banquet will not be held.

At this point, the following events have the

most potential to be held and are scheduled as follows: • Sept. 17: Shuffleboard, pickleball, miniature golf • Sept.18: Pickleball, soccer, track and field, specialty events • Sept. 20: Executive golf, bocce ball • Sept. 21: Golf, trap shooting, air gun, 5k run, wobble trap • Sept. 22: Shuffleboard (singles), air pistol, skeet • Sept. 23: Cycling, cornhole “We are extremely disappointed that after canceling the 2020 games we must go forward into 2021 with caution. We hope that by holding the games at a later date the senior population will be vaccinated and the environment will be safe.

We must focus on the safety and well-being of our senior participants “says Golden Games Chairman, Jeff Ford.

Submitted photo Each red or green Trails Assist box contains a road or mountain bike tube and two carbon dioxide (C02) inflators for cyclists to use when in dire need of a flat tire repair.

Soon cyclists will never be stranded with a flat tire while riding in a St. Charles County park – thanks to a donation from Trail Assist.

Christian Hon, avid cyclist and founder of the nonprofit organization, is giving back to the community by installing weather-proof boxes that contain emergency bike repair supplies along various trails throughout the St. Charles County Parks system Dedicated to assisting stranded cyclists facing “ride-threatening situations” in the park, each red or green Trails Assist box contains a road or mountain bike tube and two carbon dioxide (C02) inflators for cyclists to use when in dire need of a flat tire repair. The boxes have been installed along the Great Plains Trail and Cannon Loop Trail at Indian Camp Creek Park, 2679 Dietrich Road in Foristell, and are coming soon to Broemmelsiek, Klondike, Matson Hill, and Quail Ridge parks.

“It’s simply a way to give back,” says Hon. “The cycling community, especially in the St. Charles and St. Louis area is a great one. I have been in many difficult situations on my bike and other cyclists offered me help. This is a way to extend that helping hand when we all need it.”

As more and more people are cycling these days, Hon feels it’s important to have a network of resources like Trail Assist to help in times of a bike failure. Riders can find Trail Assist boxes by using the “Bike Network Map” on their website at trailassist.org. This interactive mapping service uses Global Positioning System (GPS) to pinpoint where each box is located. Boxes #19 and #20 at Indian Camp Creek Park are just a few of the popular biking locations on the map. Additional park and residential locations are expected to be added soon.

How can you help grow the Trail Assist network? This 501c3 organization relies on donations, grants and volunteers to build a platform for cyclists locally. To learn more about how to donate, request a box at your property or business, or register to become a box steward for St. Charles County Parks, visit trailassist.org. If you’d like to become a trail steward for the St. Charles County Parks and Recreation Department, call 636-949-7535 or visit stccparks.org.

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • February 3, 2021

WSD hires new chief communications officer The Wentzville School District Board of Education has approved the hiring of Derrick Docket as the new Chief Communications Officer, effective Feb. 1. Docket has worked for the WSD since 2018 as the Director of Marketing and replaces Mary LaPak, who has been named the new Executive Director of Communication for the Rockwood School District.

In his current role, Docket established the district’s newly created marketing department, developing and managing advertising partnerships throughout the community.

He was instrumental in the roll out of the new district logo and has supported the athletic and activities programs, as well as the graphic design needs of the WSD. He has also successfully re-

cruited and mentored students in order to live-stream sporting events and create digital programs for games and performances. Prior to working for the WSD, Docket served as the Associate Commissioner of New Media & Technology for the Missouri Valley Conference for seven years. He has a bachelor of arts in graphic design/digital imaging with a minor in advertising and promotion from Missouri State University.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the students, staff, and all stakeholders of the Wentzville School District in this role,” shared Docket.

“I’ve quickly learned that the WSD is a very special place and I look forward to sharing the stories that make our district exceptional.”

Docket is a native of St. Lou-

Photo courtesy Wentzville School District The Wentzville School District Board of Education has approved the hiring of Derrick Docket as the new Chief Communications Officer, effective Feb. 1.

is and a graduate of Parkway West High School. He lives with his wife Brittany in St. Peters and they are expecting their first child later this year.

Green Tree art teacher named Missouri Elementary Art Educator of the Year Green Tree Elementary art teacher Pam Winter has been named the 2021 Elementary Art Educator of the Year by the Missouri Art Education Association (MAEA), an organization dedicated to keeping quality visual arts education in Missouri schools.

Winter has taught in the district since 2005 and has been the art teacher at Green Tree Elementary for 14 years. In 2016, she was named Green Tree’s Teacher of the Year. Last year, Winter received the Alpha Delta Kappa Missouri Excellence in Education Award, the South-Central Region’s Excellence in Education Award, and is now in the running for the International Excellence in Education award, which will be announced in July of this year.

“I am honored and humbled to win this award,” shared Winter. “I work with so many amazing educators at Green Tree, within Wentzville School District, and across the state of Missouri who have shared

ideas that continue to enrich the experiences of my students in the art room. I love facilitating creative experiences and adventures for my students at Green Tree.”

The Missouri Elementary Art Educator of the Year Award is presented annually to recognize the efforts of teachers who have contributed significantly to art education in Missouri. Key criteria for the award include commitment, activities involvement, honors and service, leadership roles and accomplishments, publications and/or exhibits, and outstanding teaching-related contributions and services.

“Pam is so deserving of this award.” shared WSD Lead Art Teacher Hester Menier. “She’s always looking for opportunities to make her classroom a place where students want to be, where they can learn about the value of visual art in their lives. In class, she focuses on student relationships and meeting the needs of students.

She reaches out to members of

Photo courtesy Wentzville School District Green Tree Elementary art teacher Pam Winter has been named the 2021 Elementary Art Educator of the Year by the Missouri Art Education Association.

the greater art education community to share her knowledge and offers a safe place for them to meet and discuss issues that concern them.”

Winter will be recognized at an Awards Ceremony at TanTar-a resort in Osage Beach, Missouri on March 27.

School

7

St. Charles Community College Foundation seeking nominations for Distinguished Alumni Award The St. Charles Community College Foundation is seeking nominations of former SCC students who have become leaders in their professions and positively impact their community. The following are the criteria an individual must meet to be considered for the Distinguished Alumni Award: • Attended SCC – degree preferred but not required.

• Esteemed among peers as a leader in his or her field, with demonstrated commitment to community.

Many outstanding people have come through SCC’s doors, from inspiring professionals to industry leaders and leading academics. The SCC Foundation recognizes these stars among our alumni with the Distinguished Alumni Award. Those chosen for this award have done exceptional work and shown exemplary dedication to their communities.

While the foundation is always accepting nominations for the award, the deadline for 2021 is Feb. 28.

To nominate a deserving SCC alum, fill out the online form at stchas.edu/distinguishedalumni.

For more information contact Peggy Schnardthorst, advancement officer at SCC, at 636-922-8278 or pschnardthorst@stchas. edu.

8

What’s Happening

February 3. 2021 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com prevent falls. For more information call 636-949-3372.

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.

ONGOING EVENTS Mondays: Optimist Club meetings

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 314560-1868.

Mondays: Take off Pounds Sensibly

Take off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS) meets every Monday from 9:30 - 10:30 a.m. Weigh-ins begin at 8:30 a.m. We meet at Memorial Hall in Blanchette Park at 1900 Randolph St. in St. Charles. For more information contact Joyce at 636-206-5306.

Mondays: Take off Pounds Sensibly

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.

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 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 Con nection Recovery Support Group

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.

Mondays: mous

Alcoholics

Anony-

If you want to drink, that’s your business. If you want to stop, we can help.

Call Alcoholics Anonymous at 636970-0013.

Mondays: Seasoned eye carvers meeting

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

Mondays: St. Peters Rotary Club

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. 314-369-6521.

Mondays and Thursdays: Bridge

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 636-397-0866 if you are interested in playing on Monday or Thursday morning.

Mondays: American Legion Post 388 Meets

Meets the fourth Monday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at American Legion Hall, 607 Westridge Dr., O’Fallon, 636-2190553.

Mondays: Measurement Mondays:

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 moms-to-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

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

Tuesdays: Cribbage Club

Meets every Tuesday, 12:30 – 3:30 p.m. at The Falls Golf Course Clubhouse.

Relaxed, friendly play and is open to all. Call 314-779-6892 for more information.

Tuesdays: Seniors group

Please join us on the third Tuesday of each month from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. for a gathering for senior adults. There will be lunch (no charge), cards and bingo (no charge), community program referrals, occasional health and wellness presentations and clergy available upon request. The event takes place at Church of the Transfiguration at1860 Lake St. Louis Blvd. in Lake Saint Louis. For more information call 636-5618951.

Tuesdays: Optimist Club meeting

The St. Charles Optimist Club meets Tuesdays at noon at Pio’s Restaurant.

For more information contact Jack Ross at 314-287-0569 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: Cottleville Spring Kiwanis Club

Weldon

Cottleville Weldon Spring Kiwanis Club meets the first Tuesday of the month at 6:00 p.m. and the third Tuesday of the month at 11 a.m. Both meetings are at Rack House Kitchen Wine Whiskey. New club looking for new members who want to better our community. Contact Christy at 314583-0538.

Tuesdays: group

Diabetes

support

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 636206-2483. 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: Toastmasters Meeting

7 p.m. at the Midwest Bank Centre Board Room at 2299 Technology Blvd., O’Fallon, MO 63368. Info: 636379-2505.

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 at 7 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: Monthly veterans coffee

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 Tuesday 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.

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

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 636-279-5522 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: Show-me Stitchers Embroiderer’s Guild of America

Meets at 7 p.m. on the second Tuesday of the month at the Trinity Church.

Info: www.showmestitchers.com.

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 August 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. 314-3696521.

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

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.

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.

Tuesdays: Dardenne Presbyterian Church Basketball

Wednesdays: Marine League meeting

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

Corp

On the first Wednesday of each month the St. Charles County Marine Corps League meets at the American Legion 313 old town St. Peters at 7:30 p.m.

All Marines and FMF Corpsmen are welcome. For more information visit www.stcharlesmarine.org.

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • February 3, 2021 Wednesdays: Women’s fishing club

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: 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 weight-loss 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. 636272-1945 or www.vfwpost5077.org.

Wednesdays: Yoga at The St. Charles County Family YMCA 6-6:55pm Any level. Info: 636-9281928.

Wednesdays: Hope & Healing

5-6pm, Dardenne Presbyterian 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 Off Pounds Sensibly

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: meeting

American

Legion

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 636327-6060.

group meets at 6 p.m. Info: www.ofkiwanis.com.

Thursdays: Lions Club meeting

Every Thursday: Rotary Club meeting

Thursdays: TOPS meeting

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

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 314-258-1069 for more information.

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 Society

Meets third Thursday of the month, 6:30 pm at the McClay Library in St. Charles. Info: www.fleurdelisgardensociety.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.

Every Thursday: Kiwanis Club of St. Peters

6:30am at IHOP (3851 Veteran’s Memorial Pkwy St. Peters).

Every Thursday: Kiwanis Club of O’Fallon

Meets at JJ’s Restaurant in O’Fallon at 12 noon, except third Thursday the

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

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

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

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.

Every Friday: Moms Play Group

10am at LSL Community Association, 100 Cognac Ct., Lake Saint Louis, MO 63367. 314.479.0306, andreacrislip@ gmail.com or www.lslmothersclub. com.

Every Friday: VFW Fish Fry

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

What’s Happening

Saturdays: Fruehschoppen Samstag Verein (FSV)

Last Saturday of every month Fruehschoppen Samstag Verein (FSV) meets at 11 a.m. at Bar Louie in St. Charles. Wir treffen uns auf ein Bier (und vielleicht Mittagessen), und geniessen ein Gespräch auf deutsch.

We’re meeting for a beer (and maybe lunch), and enjoying a conversation in German. April, June and September meetings are held at different locations. See https://www.facebook.com/ groups/472022532983525/

9

Hwy Z in Wentzville hosts shotgun meat shoots every Sunday at noon.

Fourteen rounds consist of seven meat rounds and seven money rounds. First Sunday of the month is open shoot.

Other Sundays are .680 minimum choke. House gun available and shells supplied. For more information, please call 636-639-1648.

CROSSWORD answers from page F-4

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.

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: group

Alzheimer’s support

The group meets the third Sunday of the month (unless it’s a holiday, then they meet the following Sunday) from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome.

This is a Church of the Shepherd support group and meets at the McClay Adult Day Center at 3821 McClay Road in St. Peters (upstairs). For more information, please call Nancy Young at 636-875-3457.

Sundays: Overeaters Anonymous

Do you eat when you’re not hungry?

Do you go on eating binges for no apparent reason? Is your weight affecting the way you live your life? Contact Overeaters Anonymous. No dues. No fees. No weigh-ins. No diets. There are meetings every day of the week. Please call 314-638-6070 or email bistateoal@ prodigy.net.

2nd Sunday: Moscow Mills Lions Breakfast

7am - noon, September - April. Moscow Community Center, Hwy C. $7/ adult, $4/child, under 6 free. www.e-clubhouse.org/sites/moscowmills.

2nd Sunday: The Wheelers and Dealers Square Dance

7-9:30 p.m. at Memorial Hall at Blanchette Park, 1900 W Randolph St. Participants must have taken dance lessons before attending. For more information, visit www.squaredancestcharles.com or call Lucy at (636)3913822.

Sundays: Meat shoot

Wentzville VFW Post 5317 at 1414

SUDOKU answers from page F-1

10

Sports

February 3 2021 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

Sports you see with Gary B . . .

North wins beating an undefeated team Fort Zumwalt North boys basketball in St. Charles county had to go to overtime to pick up a big win.

With the help of K.J. Lee scoring 19 points, including a crucial three-point play in overtime, the Panthers knocked off previously unbeaten MICDS 66-58 in the Fort Zumwalt North Tournament championship recently at North.

The day was exceptionally noted as this was the first time the Panthers who have won 15 out of 17 games this year and are ranked the number nine team in the high school ratings of large-schools.

www.proacriveprintservices.com

www.treesbywoodys.net

They are bragging that have won their own tournament for the only time this century.

The athletics director Ted Hickey of North said after the game it was the first home tournament title for the Panthers in his 23 years at the school. ~~~Great accomplishments

Three wins in a row for the Ambush The St. Louis Ambush plays their home games at the Family Arena in Sat. Charles in the Major Arena Soccer League (MASL).

The Ambush handed the Florida Tropics their first loss of the season in an 8-4 rout this past Sunday afternoon at Axius Field at the Family Arena. The win improved the Ambush to 4-3 on the season, while Florida dropped to 6-1. It also allowed the Ambush to avenge the 8-3 loss at the hands of the Tropics Friday.

The Ambush goals were netted by: • Max Ferdinand • Tony Walls (hat trick-3 goals) • Vadim Cojocov (2) • Stefan Mijatovic • Corey Adamson In earning the win in goal for St. Louis, Brett Petricek stopped 13 shots in 17 opportunities for a .765 save percentage.

The Ambush return to action with backto-back home games this weekend, hosting the Ontario Fury Friday, Feb. 5 at 7:35 p.m. with a return engagement slated for Saturday, Feb. 6 at 7:05 p.m.

All Ambush home games are at Axius Field at the Family Arena. Visit www.

STLAmbush.com for more details. ~~~Riding the wave early in the season

Think baseball in February, with the Hoots signing a Billiken The O’Fallon Hoots, members of the Prospect League, play their home games at CarShield Field in O’Fallon.

The Hoots recently announced the signing of a St. Louis University infielder Matt Dunham for the 2021 summer season.

Dunham, a sophomore, played in 26 games for the Hoots in the CarShield Collegiate League last summer and will continue in 2021. He collected 15 RBIs on 16 hits while a very high on-base-percentage rating.

In a shortened 2020 season at Jefferson College, the first baseman hit for a .301 average with 22 hits before transferring to SLU for the upcoming 2021 season.

Go to www.OFallonHoots.com for more information. ~~~What a great addition Indoor football coming to the Family Arena in April Stay tune for the St. Louis Football Bandits to be loaded with talented players and top notched coaches as they play in the American Arena Football League (AAL) in 2021.

For more details go to www.StLouisBanditsFootball. com ~~~Non stop action 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 3, 2021

Recipe:

Feature

F-1

– SUDOKU –

A fresh, flavorful take on family dinner

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.

Cuban Chicken with Salsa Fresca Servings: 5

Ingredients: 1 cup grapefruit juice 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 teaspoons garlic powder 2 teaspoons cumin 2 teaspoons paprika 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper 1 1/4 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts Salsa Fresca: 1 cup grapefruit segments 1/2 jicama, cubed 1/2 red onion, chopped

Directions:

3/4 cup grapefruit juice

Heat oven to 400 F.

4 tablespoons olive oil

In large bowl, mix grapefruit juice, oil, garlic powder, cumin, paprika and red pepper until combined. Add chicken to bowl and turn to coat. Refrigerate 30 minutes or longer.

1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped 1 jalapeno pepper, chopped

To make salsa fresca: In medium bowl,

mix grapefruit segments, jicama, red onion, grapefruit juice, olive oil, cilantro and jalapeno pepper until combined.

Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Remove chicken from marinade. Place chicken in baking dish. Bake 25-30 minutes until chicken is cooked through.

Serve chicken with salsa fresca.

Find more recipes and family dinner ideas at Culinary.net

SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 9

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.

In 1973, CBS arguably had the best block of television programming on Saturday night. The groundbreaking “All in the Family” started the ball rolling and “The Carol Burnett Show” was the closer, the show that most people stayed awake to watch.

Between these comedic gems were the critically acclaimed “M*A*S*H” and the low-key comedy of “The Bob Newhart Show.” Other networks later laid claim to other nights, but this Saturday night lineup was special.

That programming block also introduced many viewers to the talented Cloris Leachman. The actress, who passed away on Jan. 26 at the age of 94, played Phyllis Lindstrom, the downstairs neighbor of Mary Richards on “The Mary Tyler Moore Show.” Leachman’s recurring character made quite an impact on audiences and she left the show to star in the “Phyllis” spin-off. Unfortunately, that series only lasted a few seasons but she did win a Golden Globe for her efforts.

A multi-talented comedian and actress, Leachman makes a memorable appearance in “It’s a Good Life,” an episode of Rod Serling’s classic anthology series “The Twilight Zone.”

The actress plays Mrs. Fremont, a frustrated mother whose son Anthony (Bill Mumy from “Lost in Space”) has incredible mental powers.

Leachman reprised her role in “It’s Still a Good Life” during UPN’s “Twilight Zone” revival.

Photo courtesy Bigstock

Remembering Cloris Leachman

Unfortunately, Anthony now has a daughter named Audrey (Liliana Mumy) who shares his incredible and dangerous abilities.

Leachman also made her mark during the final seasons of “The Facts of Life,” a situation comedy where a very young George Clooney played the recurring character of George the handyman. A spinoff of the popular sitcom “Diff ’rent Strokes,” the premise had Edna Garrett (Charlotte Rae) becoming the housemoth-

er at a private all-girls school. As the young cast grew older, the focus was on Mrs. Garrett and a core group of former students who worked for her.

Rae left the series at the start of the eighth season as Cloris Leachman came onboard as Beverly Ann Stickle, Mrs. Garrett’s sister.

During her tenure, Beverly Ann legally adopted Andy (Mackenzie Astin), an orphan who had been in foster care. Beverly later adopted an Australian girl name Pippa McKenna (Sherrie Kren). The series wrapped up in Season 9 as Blair Warner (Lisa Whelchel) bought Eastland Academy and made the school co-ed.

Leachman also was accomplished on the big screen in hits such as “Young Frankenstein.” In Mel Brooks’ classic take on horror films, Leachman played Frau Blücher, the housekeeper to the late Baron Beaufort von Frankenstein. After Dr. Frederick Frankenstein (Gene Wilder), his grandson, arrived at his relative’s estate he continued his grandfather’s work in reanimating the dead. Throughout the film, anytime someone said the name “Frau Blücher,” horses within earshot began to whinny.

Cloris Leachman had an incredible, award-winning career that spanned decades.

At times like these, we all could use a laugh from the lady who gave us Phyllis Lindstrom, Frau Blücher and Beverly Ann. Rest in peace, Ms. Leachman.

F-2

Feature

ACTIVE BUYER

February 3, 2021 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

HELP WANTED

SERVICES

PET CEMETERY

COLLECTIBLES

over 4,000 pet burials; over 6 acres; over 60 yrs old. 314-576-3030 www.memoryparkpetcemetery.info www.memoryparkpetcemetery.info

www.dawcstl.com

Call Brooke at 636.697.2414

HELP WANTED

MUSIC LESSONS

STATEWIDE CLASSIFIEDS

NOVENA PRAYER TO ST. JUDE May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world, now and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus, Pray for us. St. Jude, Worker of Miracles, Pray for us. St. Jude, Helper of the Hopeless, Pray for us.

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

It has never been known to fail.

Thank you, St. Jude. R.H.

Check it Out!

www.MYCNEWS.com

www.mycnews.com • Community News • February 3, 2021

Feature

F-3

CLASSIFIEDS

Dannegger Brothers Contracting, Inc • Foundation & Basement Repairs • Waterproofing • Piering • Mudjacking • Stress Bracing • Concrete Flatwork

314-993-1833

www.DanneggerBrothers.com www.danneggerbrothers.com Insured | Experienced | Local | Quality

www.scrubbydutch.com

Heating & Air Conditioning

314-739-1600 2550 Harley Drive Maryland Heights, MO 63043

Published Every Week Since 1921 Family-Owned & Operated www.treesbywoody.net

AREAS OF CIRCULATION Our FREE publications are available in over 700 convenient locations, including every Dierbergs, Schnucks and Shop ’N Save.

www.semopest.com

F-4

Feature

February 3, 2021 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

Yeggs

John Hanna

CROSSWORD: VALENTINE’S DAY

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

By Cindy Moore

Moore On Life Well it happened! I was full on exposed to the Corona.

I and a few girlfriends were daring and went to lunch. We took all the regular precautions: masked up, sanitized our hands and stayed six feet away from any germ-carrying strangers we encountered. Good job us!

Not so good. One of the ladies came down with symptoms and tested positive. She contacted everyone she had exposed. We’d have to quarantine.

I called my Aunt Fiona for some compassion.

“Hi Fiona, just wanted to tell you I’ve been around a friend who had the COVID. Won’t know anything for about ten days.”

“Whaaat?! You’ve got the virus, the big V! We shouldn’t be talking.”

“No Fiona. It doesn’t get passed through the phone.”

“That’s what you think. This is a super bug. Why, I’m sure it’s figured out how to maneuver through the fiber optic lines by now. I’ve got to go Purell myself!” CLICK! For precaution, my husband and I lived apart, which is nothing unusual as he typically stays buried downstairs in his man cave. We also had to wear masks around each other.

Me speaking to him from behind my mask, “Mfpt wen proomf gnug?”

Him shrugging his shoulders and speaking from behind his mask, “Wud? Huh? Gnug foo dunk!”

Me rolling my eyes; I pointed to my phone indicating I would text him.

I waited impatiently for the days to pass—torture.

I texted my husband from my bed: “I think I got it. I have no feeling in my left leg. Never mind. The fat cat slept on it and I lost all circulation.”

Me: “This is really it. I can feel it coming on. I’ve

Exposure disclosure got stomach issues and can’t smell.”

Husband: “Did you eat any of your Aunt Fiona’s casserole she sent over?”

“The jalapeno crab surprise?”

“Yes. It’s notorious for tearing up stomachs and destroying nasal passage linings.”

Later, I coughed once and had an itchy foot. I was convinced it was the onset of the Rona.

Day ten: no symptoms.

I called Fiona. “Good news, I’m clean.”

“That’s great!” Then she let out a vigorous sneeze.

I hung up immediately and Purelled myself. I wasn’t taking any chances with those fiber optic smart bugs.

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. “You’re the ____!”

5. Horse color 8. Interesting person, acr.

11. *Feeling of the heart 12. Nevada city 13. City in Belgium 15. Use a whisk 16. Greek H’s 17. *Popular Valentine’s Day delivery, pl.

18. *”Love means never having to say you’re sorry” movie 20. Ballpark calls 21. Strong adhesive 22. Greek letter N, pl.

23. Lord’s subordinate 26. Given to drinking 30. Ovine mom 31. Old storage medium 34. Fairy-tale beginning 35. Politician Pelosi 37. Tokyo, once 38. Bone hollows 39. Sky bear 40. Fitted with a name tag, e.g.

42. “Ever” to a poet 43. With more seeds 45. Attic 47. Summer sandwich?

48. Fraternity letter 50. Medieval headdress 52. *Only day more

popular than Valentine’s for card giving 56. Like blue sky 57. Walk the Pacific Crest Trail, e.g.

58. Samoan money 59. *Dionysus’ pipeplaying companion 60. Affirm 61. Give off 62. Plays for pay 63. *Color of Valentine’s Day 64. *Lovers’ reunion DOWN 1. Cry like a baby 2. Canyon sound 3. Convict’s weapon 4. Conical dwellings 5. Get on juice diet, e.g.

6. Opposite of binary 7. Like a gossipmonger 8. Exterminator’s target 9. Change for a five 10. Part of T.G.I.F. 12. Like an abridged classic 13. Tiler’s paste 14. *”I Will Always Love You” singer 19. Stupefied 22. Us, in Mexico 23. *Cupid’s mother 24. In the know

25. Common thing?

26. Smoke plus fog 27. Lay to rest 28. Rocks at mountain base 29. *Symbol of Valentine’s Day 32. Infantry’s last row 33. Roulette bet 36. *Chocolatier, pioneer of the heart-shaped box 38. ____ apple 40. Risk something 41. Between eggy and eggiest 44. Feeling worse than before 46. Gave away 48. Thin piece 49. Annoyed 50. Russia’s alternative to caesar 51. Aries or Taurus, e.g.

52. Burn to a crisp 53. MADD member, colloquially 54. Climbed down, as from a carriage 55. Fill beyond full 56. Pharaoh’s cobra

SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 9