CNSTC: June 15, 2022 by Community News

June 15, 2022

Preparing for the worst

Around Town

Two thrift shops in St. Charles County rely on the generosity of the community to help neighbors in need. Pg. 4

Healthy Living Why you shouldn’t skip your annual wellness exam. Pg. 5

School WSD graduates awarded over $112,000 in community scholarships. Pg. 7

Features

Photo by Nathan Porter Police officers from different departments across St. Charles County participate in Multi-Assault, Counter Terrorism Action Capabilities training to respond to an active shooter situation.

Police officers across St. Charles County have been trained in the Multi-Assault, Counter Terrorism Action Capabilities program By Brett Auten It is a sad state of affairs, but it is the world in which we live. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the number of active shooter incidents across the United States increased more than 50% in 2021 compared to a year before and those incidents resulted in the highest number of deaths since 2017, the FBI said in a report last month. In St. Charles County, all officers and law enforcement agencies in the county have been trained in Multi-Assault, Counter Terrorism Action Capabilities, or MAC-

TAC, a program that is used throughout the country. St. Charles County Police Chief Kurt Frisz said selected individuals from every agency in the county went through instructor training first and then those 25 began training every officer – more than 650 – in the county. While the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Team often assists in these types of incidents, it was found that in the case of an active shooter, SWAT Teams are often too late to be effective. Training all officers ensures that any first responding officer knows how to react to the situation. The training is intense.

Gunshots boom out of loudspeakers and the blanks that are loaded inside the guns crack. Room lights are flickering and smoke is pumped into the hallways. The manpower for the training is extensive and makes for 10-to-12-hour days for those involved. The training involves multiple sections, including the initial outside movement to interior movement and positioning. “We place trainees in a variety of scenarios and make it as real as possible to make certain we can stop an active shooter in any situation,” Frisz said. But it is all worth it. See ‘PREPARING’ page 2

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Around Town

June 15, 2022 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

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

Huneke Publications, Inc. 2139 Bryan Valley Commercial Dr. O’Fallon, MO 63366 PH: 636-379-1775 FX: 636-379-1632 Published weekly since 1921. Serving St. Louis, St. Charles and Lincoln Counties. Publisher/ Editor-in-Chief Mathew DeKinder Publisher Emeritus/ General Manager Robert J. Huneke Production Manager Rebecca Brockmann Production Assistant Melissa Nordmann Copy Editor Donna Huneke Staﬀ Writers Brett Auten, Wendy Todd, Laurie Simon Columnists Gary Baute, Steve Bryan, Cindy Moore

Photos by Nathan Porter Police officers from different departments across St. Charles County participate in Multi-Assault, Counter Terrorism Action Capabilities training to respond to an active shooter situation.

‘PREPARING’ from cover Officers receive 10 hours of MACTAC training with an emphasis that incidents are spontaneous and that suspects are unpredictable and heavily armed. The trainees are also reminded that incidents occur in large environments where there are numerous people who have no way of defending themselves. The training is recurring with full training sessions and refreshers available throughout the year. “You now have several different agencies all on the same page, performing the same tactics,” St. Charles County Captain David Cathey said. “If something were to happen in St. Peters, for example, the entire region should – and does – know what we’re doing. Over the years (the training) has evolved and it is still unfolding and still getting better and better.”

Frisz said it is also important to make certain citizens receive active shooter training. His staff has focused on teachers and other school employees, as well as employees at nonprofit organizations. They receive four hours of 4E School Training: Educate, Escape, Evade and Engage – or Run, Hide, Fight. County employees also were offered the training. “For officers, it’s a reality of our job and why we serve to protect the public, but for civilians, it’s something they need to be prepared for and to think about,” Frisz said. “We want to equip them with as many tools as we can to help save their lives and the lives of those around them and in their care.” The FBI report defines an active shooting incident as when “one or more individuals actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a populated area.” The term “active”

refers in particular to the ongoing nature of an incident in which the response – of civilians or emergency services – can still affect its outcome. St. Charles County Executive Steve Ehlmann said that after the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in 2012, they found out that while law enforcement, schools and mental health personnel had talked about what they would do in such instances, they hadn’t talked with each other. “Unfortunately, there are more and more instances of active shooters and people are aware this could happen anytime, anywhere,” Ehlmann said, “Being ready is the best way to keep safe, and I want to reassure the community that our officers are both trained and prepared.”

Cartoonist John Hanna Social Media Lori North Classiied Advertising Brooke Tolle Display Advertising Heather Deatz, Bob Huneke, Norm Merchant, Laurie Simon Circulation Dominion Distribution, Papers Unlimited Community News is a Registered Trademark of Huneke Publications, Inc: Neither the advertiser nor the publisher is responsible or liable for misinformation, misprints, typographical errors, etc., herein contained. Huneke Publications, Inc. reserves the right to accept or reject all news and advertising copy which in the sole judgement and discretion of the publisher/editor is not suitable or deemed appropriate for publication. Copyright 2021 Huneke Publications, Inc. with all rights reserved. No part of the publications may be repr duced in any form without permission in writing from the publisher/editor. Publication of advertising contained herein does not necessarily constitute endorsement. Signed columns are the opinion of the writers and not necessarily the opinion of the publisher. Entire Contents Copyrighted.

THIS WEEK’S PICK

Dardenne Presbyterian Church hosts patriotic concert All are cordially invited to attend a free patriotic concert, “Celebrating America’s Music,” at Dardenne Presbyterian Church on June 26 at 3 p.m. The program will be presented by the Chancel Choir and Instrumentalists of Dardenne Presbyterian Church with guests from the St. Peters Choral Society, the Choral Arts Singers, and musicians from our community. The concert will take place in the Christian Life Center of Dardenne Presbyterian Church at 7400 South Outer 364 in Dardenne Prairie.

Under the direction of Kathy Fenske, Band Director at Dardenne Presbyterian, the concert band will perform several pieces including “American Salute,” “National Emblem March,” “Seventy-Six Trombones,” and “Stars and Stripes Forever.” The band will also accompany the 50-voice choir, directed by Stefanie Liesman, Traditional Music Director at Dardenne Presbyterian, on a medley of tunes by Irving Berlin (There’s No Business Like Show Business, Alexander’s Ragtime Band, Puttin’ on the Ritz, Blue Skies, and Always), George Gershwin’s “They Can’t

Take That Away from Me,” and patriotic favorites “God Bless the USA,” “Salute to the Armed Forces,” and “God Bless America.” Also included will be “Thank You, Soldiers.” Quilts of Valor of Eastern Missouri will be present for the event and will give quilts to veterans who served in combat areas in previous wars or conflicts. Veterans may contact the church at 636-561-4347 for additional information. All are welcome to attend this free event. Please contact Dardenne Presbyterian Church at 636561-4347 for more information

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • June 15, 2022

St. Charles County Information Systems department receives award for excellence from Tyler Technologies The St. Charles County Information Systems (IS) Department has received the 2022 Tyler Excellence Award for implementation of the Tyler Technologies Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Human Resources Management suite. The technology aids in streamlining processes for the county’s Human Resources (HR) Department. “As a result of this collaboration with our IS team, the county is able to provide a seamless transition from application to employment,” says HR Director Samantha Shadrach. “Further, this has enabled HR to reassign resources to other projects to ensure the county’s continued growth.” Enabling applicant tracking and onboarding functionality in the software’s self-service portal resulted in a significant decrease in required work hours and communications for HR, especially for hiring and onboarding procedures for new employees. In the course of nine months after implementation, calls and emails to HR were reduced by about 50% and the county has saved more than 130 hours in staff time. “IS staff worked diligently for several months to implement this technology,” says IS Director Matthew Seeds, “and it is very rewarding to be acknowledged

Photo courtesy St. Charles County The St. Charles County Information Systems (IS) Department has received the 2022 Tyler Excellence Award for implementation of the Tyler Technologies Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Human Resources Management suite.

for excellence in this way. I am very proud of the team’s work and appreciative of the partnership with HR.” The county’s IS Department provides technical support and assists county departments in the advancement of technology to provide efficient and effective services to county residents. IS develops, maintains and protects the county’s data resources and network infrastructure, and offers services such as analytics, mapping, project management, business support, operational resources, public internet, and database services.

St. Charles County Youth Orchestra Celebrates 25 years

Submitted photo

The St. Charles County Youth Orchestra (SCCYO) celebrated its 25th anniversary in April with a Gala event. Beginning with just 30 students in a strings-only program, the orchestra has expanded to over 100 students performing in three ensembles: Primo Strings, Cadenza and Symphony Orchestra. The ensembles are led by conductors Wm. Shane Williams, Daniel Mieloch and Kyla Herbert.

Recent accomplishments include the Symphony Orchestra being chosen for the third time to perform at the Missouri Music Educators Association. The orchestra serves young musicians of all ages and skill levels throughout St. Charles and surrounding counties. Auditions for the 2022/2023 season will be held on Aug. 26, 27 and 28. For more information visit www.sccyo.org or email sccyomusic@gmail.com.

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June 15, 2022 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

Two thrift shops in St. Charles County rely on the generosity of the community to help neighbors in need By Brett Auten The Community News is filled week-in and week-out with stories on those who serve for the sake of others. From constructing new beds to those without, to offering fresh venison to the homeless, and even traveling halfway across the globe to help the war-torn, citizens of St. Charles County feel the need to give. Two thrift shops at the bookends of the county have been doing their part to ease the burden of life for those who need it, one stitch of clothing at a time. 50 YEARS OF EVOLUTION IN WENTZVILLE In April, over 150 volunteers of the Mary Martha Thrift Shop, along with the mayor of Wentzville, Nick Guccione, gathered to celebrate 50 years of the shop’s opening to assist residents of the St. Charles County community. It was fifty years ago that Velma Brewer, the first registered nurse hired by the Wentzville School District, saw the need to provide winter coats to needy children. She called on friends and family for their children’s outgrown coats to begin this ministry and soon found the garage behind the Methodist Church where donations were being collected, was overflowing. She approached the Wentzville Churches’ Aid Council to set up a cloth-

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ing depot to organize the clothing and to provide for those in need. This effort led to the birth of the Mary Martha Thrift Shop in 1971, at its first official location in the Duello Building on 9 West Allen Street in Wentzville. Linda Adams, the current president of the Mary Martha Board, said the store, a nonprofit resale shop, became an outlet for families to purchase clothing at low cost. A shopper back then could fill a brown paper bag with clothing for $1.50 and household items were also offered at substantially reduced prices. Now, the cost of a filled plastic grocery bag of clothing is $5, and household items continue to be priced well below original cost. For those who struggle financially, Mary Martha accepts clothing grant referrals from thirty-three various agencies who work with those in need. In 2019, the last full year before COVID precautions, 295 grants provided 863 bags of free clothing, a bag of clothing for each household member listed on the grant. Twenty-two pairs of shoes and fifteen coats were also given to people in need, and Mary Martha continues to add agencies to their grant program upon request and approval of the board of directors. Whether it is helping out with dental costs, rent and utilities, or getting off the street, Mary Martha has evolved. “I am so proud to be associated with it,” Mary Martha board member Kathy Prewitt said. “The vision of the founder was that it would never get this big. She was just helping out kiddos without coats. Now, we are much more than coats.” Wentzville and surrounding communities have always generously donated to Mary Martha. Even in the first full year of operations, Mary Martha had enough money to contribute to the community’s Meals on Wheels program and the Wentzville Churches’ Aid Council. Today, eight churches in western St. Charles County staff and oversee the store’s operation for one week every eight weeks. In return for their members’ service, each church receives a monetary award to be used to help those who need financial assistance in their church and community. In addition, more than eleven agencies, eight food pantries, and four educational institutions receive yearly monetary awards. A few these agencies are Aging Ahead, helping to fund the Meals on Wheels program for homebound Seniors, First Step Back Home, helping the homeless to regain independence, Sleep in Heavenly Peace, providing beds for children who are sleeping on floors, and Crossroads Clinic, a free clinic for those without healthcare coverage. Throughout the years, the thrift shop has been publicly recognized for its contribution to St. Charles County. Recently, Guccione presented a proclamation from the city of Wentzville honoring Mary Martha Thrift Shop for its many contributions to Wentzville and the surrounding area over the past 50 years. It is an all-volunteer workforce as volunteers are responsible for running the store for an entire week, once every eight weeks. There is always a need for more volunteers to both sort and price items, and to work in the store for the entire week. Mary Martha has called five different locations in Wentzville home since its humble beginning. Mary

Photos courtesy TheresaL_Photo.com Beverly and Tim Evans of Helping Hands Thrift Store & Foster Care Closet, located at 416 South Fifth Street in St. Charles.

Martha was given a ninety-nine-year lease for their current property at 9 West Koenig Street. With the help of the community, volunteers built a 1,200-squarefoot shop on the Koenig site in 1985 and moved to their current location. In 2002, as the shop was growing, a 1,200-square-foot addition was added. After thirty-five years at the present location and even more generous donations from the ever-growing community, Mary Martha again needs more space, which includes more square footage for the clothing and household goods stores and more space for processing items for sale. “Wentzville has grown 11-times what it used to be,” Prewitt said. “Donations are abundant.” ‘WE’RE TIRED OF SEEING PEOPLE STRUGGLE’ Last month, a St. Charles Police officer walked through the door of Helping Hands Thrift and Foster Closet. “I guess a homeless guy tried to swim across the (Missouri) River and his clothes were soaked,” Beverly Evans, who runs Helping Hands with her husband, Tim, said. “For what reason he was trying to, I don’t know? But we gave the police officer free clothes. The officer wanted to pay, but I don’t want any money. I want to help.” Tim is a St. Charles native and Beverly came here from Kentucky. Together, they are seeing more and more coming through the door. “We’re tired of seeing people struggle,” Beverly said. “We see all of the kids out here who are hungry and don’t have nice things and there doesn’t seem to be anyone helping them.” Helping Hands Thrift Store and Foster Care Closet pride themselves on having the lowest prices in town. And its customers would testify, one of the kindest hearts. All clothing is under $2, except for jeans. And for those in the foster care system, carte blanche. “When the foster kids go into foster care, they can come in here and get whatever they need for free,” Beverly said. “We are the cheapest in town and we are here to help if you need it. If it’s a fire, or anything like that, come to us.” Helping Hands does take donations as well as volunteers.

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • June 15, 2022

Safe summer fun Longer days and lighter schedules make summer perfect for relaxing, having fun outdoors and spending time with loved ones. However, more physical activity and time spent in the sun can also translate to increased health and safety risks. As you and your family enjoy the warmth and sunshine, remember these precautions from the experts at the American Heart Association. Watch for signs of heat stress On hot summer days, be alert for signs of heat illnesses, such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Even when it doesn’t seem extreme, heat and humidity can take a toll. Some signs of heat-related illness include muscle pain, cramps or spasms; heavy sweating; paleness; dizziness; headache; nausea or vomiting; confusion; fainting or unconsciousness; high body temperature (greater than 100 F) with dry skin; and rapid pulse. If you experience any of these symptoms, take a break, drink some water and find shade or air conditioning to cool off. If symptoms worsen or vomiting occurs, seek medical attention. Stay hydrated If you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors, frequently consuming water and foods with high water content – melons, lettuce and cucumbers, for example – can help replace the fluids lost via sweat. In addition, be aware of the signs and symptoms of mild dehydration, including a dry or sticky mouth; dry, cool skin; headache; or muscle cramps. More severe cases may include dry, shriveled skin; irritability or confusion; dizziness; rapid heartbeat; rapid breathing; fatigue; and unconsciousness. Learn CPR As summertime activities expose people of all ages to risks, it’s important to be trained in CPR. If performed immediately, it can double or triple a cardiac arrest victim’s chance of survival, according to the American Heart Association. However, only about 40% of people who experience out-of-hospital cardiac arrest receive help before professionals arrive. Because about 74% of adult and 87.5% of child out-of-hospital cardiac arrests happen in homes, you will likely be trying to save the life of someone you love – a child, spouse, parent or friend – if called upon to perform CPR. Hands-Only CPR is recommended for members of the general public who see someone suddenly collapse. Call 9-1-1, or send someone to do so, then push hard and fast in the center of the per-

son’s chest until medical assistance arrives. Use an AED, if available, following the prompts. Conventional CPR is the next step and involves chest compressions and mouth-to-mouth breathing but should only be used by health care professionals and those trained to perform it correctly. Protect skin from the sun While enjoying activities outdoors, remember to take steps to protect your skin from the sun’s damaging rays. Limit your time in the sun, especially during the midday hours when the rays are strongest, and wear sunscreen to help reduce your risk of sunburn, skin cancer and the early onset of wrinkles. Experts recommend sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Wearing sunglasses, a hat and cool, long-sleeved clothing can further limit exposure when outdoors for long periods of time. Play safe Each year, emergency departments treat more than 200,000 children under the age of 14 for playground-related injuries, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Choose age-appropriate parks and playgrounds for your children and keep precautions like these in mind: teach children to take turns as pushing or roughhousing can result in accidents or injuries, check metal slides before use to prevent burns, remind kids to be careful walking near moving swings and encourage them to go one at a time on slides that are clear of other children. Also be sure to use proper protective gear for other outdoor activities like biking or watersports and have a firstaid kit on-hand. Swim zafely Whether enjoying the pool, beach, lake or river, bodies of water can be dangerous if appropriate precautions aren’t taken. In fact, drowning is among the top five causes of unintentional injury death in the United States, according to the CDC. Avoid swimming alone, especially in natural bodies of water that aren’t clear and may present strong currents or underwater obstacles, and don’t overestimate your swimming ability. Designating an undistracted “water watcher,” wearing life jackets, ensuring someone in your group knows CPR and avoiding alcohol consumption are also safe practices to keep in mind while swimming. For more tips on CPR and first aid, visit cpr.heart.org or download the Knowledge Booster app.

Healthy Living

Around Town

June 15, 2022 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

West Community Credit Union announces 2022 scholarship winners

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West Community Credit Union has awarded it’s 2022 scholarships. This year’s recipients are Sabastian Ashman (MICDS-Mary Institute and St. Louis Country Day School), Logan Forrest (Duchesne Catholic High School), Chloe Kaplan (Francis Howell High), Nirmita Vijayalingam (Brentwood High School) and Christina Guyre (Fort Zumwalt West). 2022 marks the 27th year West Community Credit Union has given out scholarships to well-deserving high school seniors. “Each year we are amazed at the quality of the candidates. Every application is filled with merit, community service and exceptional recommendation letters from teachers and community leaders,” states Lori Hudson, Communi-

Submitted photo (From left) Jason Peach (CEO West Community Credit Union) stands with Sabastian Ashman (MICDS), Logan Forrest (Duchesne), Chloe Kaplan (Francis Howell High), Nirmita Vijayalingam (Brentwood), Debbie Geringer (Board & Scholarship Committee Member) and Trinetta Taylor (Board & Scholarship Committee Member). Not pictured is Christina Guyre (Fort Zumwalt West).

ty Engagement Manager at West Community. “It’s challenging to narrow it down to the final five, which is a good testament to the potential of our future work force!” West Community Credit Union

scholarships are awarded base on a short essay, financial need, GPA, curriculum, recommendations and extracurricular activities. Applications are available in January of each year.

Positive test for tuberculosis in St. Charles County

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An individual at Hollenbeck Middle School in St. Charles has been diagnosed with active tuberculosis (TB), according to the St. Charles County Department of Public Health (SCCDPH). Health officials are working with school representatives to identify students and staff who might have been exposed to the illness. Health officials will be testing close contacts on site at the school; students must have parent permission to be tested. Health officials stress that the public should not be concerned. Those identified as close contacts are being notified and tested by the

SCCDPH. TB is a disease spread through the air from one person to another during prolonged, repeated, and close contact with an individual who is infected with active tuberculosis. People are most likely to spread it to those they spend time with every day. It is not spread by shaking someone’s hand, sharing food or drink, touching bed linens or toilet seats. Symptoms include a bad cough that lasts three weeks or longer, chest pain or coughing up blood or phlegm from deep inside the lungs. Weakness, fatigue, weight loss, loss

of appetite, chills, fever and sweating at night can also be symptoms. Not everyone infected with TB bacteria becomes sick. A person with inactive or latent TB does not feel sick, does not have symptoms, and cannot spread it to others. Individuals who test positive for latent TB can prevent infectious disease by completing a regimen of antibiotics. St. Charles County residents who wish to be tested for TB can do so by calling the Health Department at 636-949-7484 to make an appointment. Cost is $20.

MODOT identifies $190 million for St. Charles County projects, asks for public comment on draft STIP Infrastructure has long been a priority for St. Charles County Executive Steve Ehlmann. The growing county needs safe roads to carry more traffic and to do that, new roads must be built, and old roads must be improved. The Missouri Department of Transportation (MODOT) is asking for public comment on its Fiscal Year 2023-2027 Draft Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) that includes more than $190 million in improvements for St. Charles County. Residents have an opportunity to provide feedback to MODOT regarding projects that have been prioritized for funding. “St. Charles County Government has been asking for more funding from MODOT for several years,” Ehlmann says. “This STIP includes funding for significant projects in our county that need improvement as we continue to grow. I am grateful for MODOT’s respon-

siveness to our needs and encourage residents to take advantage of the comment period being offered.” The comment period is open until June 17. Comments can be sent to STIPcomments@modot.mo.gov. The Draft STIP is a sizable document that covers the entire state of Missouri’s transportation system; MoDOT’s St. Louis District is on pages 295-358 and the St. Charles County projects are found as listed below: • Interchange improvements at 64/70/40/61 (Partial), page 665 • Additional capacity (from 4 lanes to 6 lanes) on I-64 between I-70 and Route K, page 664 • Significant safety improvements on US-61 between Route P and the St. Charles County line (Partial), page 664 For information on all St. Charles County projects, visit https://www.modot.org/st-charles-county-construction.

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • June 15, 2022

School

Wentzville graduating seniors awarded over $112,000 in community scholarships The Wentzville School District Class of 2022 has been awarded over $112,000 worth of local scholarships this year. These deserving students from Holt, Liberty, and Timberland high schools received their diplomas on June 5, before they continue on with their post-secondary education. Individual amounts of these awards range from $500 to $4,000. "These scholarships are a reflection of the tremendous work that goes on in the Wentzville School District,"

said Dr. Curtis Cain, WSD superintendent. "We look forward to watching these soon-to-be graduates follow their dreams and continue to achieve greatness for years to come. Thank you to our community for their continued support.” The scholarships were awarded at the WSD Community Scholarship Awards Ceremony, which was held on May 4 at Liberty High School. The event was the district’s first joint awards ceremony.

AAUW St. Charles presents 2022 local scholarships

Submitted photos (Left) Rose Ann Weeks presents a scholarship awards to Sophia Prost. (Right) Rose Ann Weeks presents a scholarship awards to Sarah Goldstein.

Since 1938, AAUW St. Charles Branch (American Association of University Women) has awarded scholarships to high school senior women. Applications which meet the qualifications are accepted from any high school in St. Charles County. The committee reviews the applications and selects two recipients who are

invited attend the May AAUW meeting along with parents. Committee chair Rose Ann Weeks presented the scholarship award to Sophia Prost from St. Charles West High School. Unable to attend the meeting, Sarah Goldstein received her award at Holt High School in Wentzville.

Spotlight on O’Fallon Plaza: GRACE’S MERRY-GO-ROUND

e are the premier consignment shop in the St. Louis area. We are a full family consignment shop, meaning we accept gently used women’s, children’s, young men’s, accessories, household miscellaneous, toys, furniture, holiday clothing and decor. We have new items being dropped off every minute of every day so our inventory is ever changing. We hope to provide customers and consignors alike with the best possible consignment experience. We welcome you to visit us at: GRACE’S MERRY-GO-ROUND

130 O’Fallon Plaza, O’Fallon, MO (636)281-4555 www.gracesmerrygoround.com

www.stpeters.watermarkcommunities.com

What’s Happening WWW.MYCNEWS.COM

June 15, 2022 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

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 June 20: Bariatric Surgery Information Session

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Aug. 22: Bariatric Surgery Information Session

Take Notice . . .

Virtually join a Washington University bariatric physician 5:30-6:30 p.m. to learn more about several surgical treatment options for weight loss at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital. To learn more call 314-542-9378 or visit BarnesJewishWestCounty.org/Medical-Services/Bariatrics/Bariatric-Surgery-Information-Sessions.

July 11: Bariatric Surgery Information Session

July 11: Stroke Support Class

Whether you are a stroke survivor or taking care of a loved one, you are invited to join a monthly support group community from 1-2 p.m. Attendees have the option to join online and go to Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital to participate. To learn more call 636-928-9355 or visit BJCstcharlescounty.org/ stroke-support-group

July 25: Bariatric Surgery Information Session

Aug 1: Stroke Support Class

Aug. 8: Bariatric Surgery Information Session

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 314-560-1868.

Mondays: Take Pounds Sensibly

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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 Connection 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: Anonymous

Alcoholics

If you want to drink, that’s your business. If you want to stop, we can help. Call Alcoholics Anonymous at 636970-0013.

Mondays: Cottleville Weldon Spring Kiwanis Club

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: 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 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 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. 314369-6521.

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, 636-219-0553.

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • June 15, 2022 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.

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

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 314-954-3364 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 314-287-0569 or jackross@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 636233-8032.

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 800272-3900 or visit www.alz. org/stl. Registration is requested before the first meeting.

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What’s Happening CROSSWORD answers from page F-4

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 636-6255447.

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: Mended Hearts

This heart patient support group provides hospital visitation support for people with any type of heart issues. The group meets at 6:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of each month at the Spencer Road St. Charles Library, at the corner of Boone Hills Dr. and Spencer Rd. For additional information please call 636639-0875.

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

www.heritageandfreedomfest.com

Sports

June 15, 2022 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

Sports you see with Gary B . . . Hoots looking to recover from a three-game losing streak The O’Fallon Hoots play baseball in the Prospect League in the Prairie Land Division. Recently they have hit a skid they are looking to recover from with the top-notch team that that they have assembled in their roster. Check out www.OfallonHoots.com to get all the details. *A promising group of players

www.drmarcycooper.com

Lindenwood Women’s rugby team excel Lindenwood University’s women’s rugby defeated Life University 19-7 Sunday night in New Orleans to win a fourth straight CRC March Madness Sevens title. In doing so, Lindenwood completed a triple crown of championships this spring, having already won the Collegiate Rugby Association of America (CRAA) Women’s D1 Elite 15’s title and the USA Rugby Collegiate Sevens title. Demi Allen Named Co-MVP with Sativa Tarau-Peehikuru The Lions and Running Eagles not only arrived at the championship game undefeated, but neither had given up a single point in the previous three games at the event, so something had to give. It looked like it might be Lindenwood as Life controlled most of the possession the first two minutes. A few minutes into the second half featured multiple drives from both teams, but they all ended in turnovers. With about two minutes remaining, the Lions brought in several “finishers” to put some fresh legs on the pitch, but another yellow card left Lindenwood short-handed again. Life pushed the ball deep into Lions territory and ultimately was rewarded with a penalty try with no time left on the clock. The conversation gave the Running Eagles seven points, but the outcome was decided with a Lions title. Kathryn Murrell, Sativa Tarau-Peehikuru and Demi Allen were named Co-Most Valuable Players at the championship and Tarau-Peehikuru, Eti Haungatau, and Amy Brice were selected to the Top Seven Tourna-

ment Dream Team. Lindenwood advanced to the title match with a convincing 27-0 win over rival Penn State earlier on Sunday. The two teams played a competitive first half, but as the game continued, the Lions took over and raced away from the Nittany Lions. The Lindenwood Lions started the tournament with two shutouts on Saturday, stopping Boise State 38-0 in the opening round and then adding a 31-0 victory over Notre Dame College in the quarterfinals. Head Coach Billy Nicholas reflected on the season, “Speaking from experience, this team has overcome a lot of adversity over the course of the year and it hasn’t been an easy ride by any means, but with our growth-minded focus, we stayed patient and took things day by day and ended up with the results we were hoping for. The seniors went out with the perfect season, a feat that is ever elusive in any sport, and for everyone else in the program here, it was an incredible experience to be a part of. I’m very proud of the team and coaching staff, not just for the results, but for their drive to continue to want to be better and grow alongside one another. It’s truly a special thing to be a part of and I’m grateful for that’.” The Lions completed the 2021-22 season undefeated in both 15’s and sevens play, continuing a regular season streak that began several years ago. Women’s rugby has now won national titles in 11 straight championships in which the team competed. With the 2022 “triple crown,” the Lions have now accomplished that feat in three different seasons. *Very impressive season

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 • June 15 , 2022

Recipe: Celebrate Dairy Month with cheesy treat

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– SUDOKU –

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

une Dairy Month honors hardworking farmers who produce wholesome dairy foods. 2022 marks a milestone anniversary for St. Louis District Dairy Council, the organization charged with promoting dairy on behalf of farmers in Missouri and Illinois. As we move through June Dairy Month, remember the health benefits that milk, cheese and yogurt deliver. Starting your day with a hearty breakfast will keep you moving along to finish all of your chores (or to-do’s). Bake ahead and reheat in the morning to save some time on your way to the barn (or the office).

Cheesy Breakfast Pizza Directions:

Ingredients: 1 (8 ounce) package refrigerated crescent rolls

5 eggs, beaten ¼ cup milk

1 cup frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed

½ tsp. salt

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 ½ Tbsp. grated Parmesan cheese

½ tsp. black pepper

½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Grease a 9 X 13-inch baking pan. Unroll crescent roll dough and press into the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle hash browns, mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the crescent roll dough. Whisk eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper together in a bowl; pour over potato-cheese layer. Top with Parmesan cheese. Bake in the preheated oven until eggs are set in the middle and cheeses are melted, about 30 minutes.

Find more drink recipes at Culinary.net

SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 9

No crying in baseball? Amazon will reboot ‘League of Their Own’

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.

lthough it might be hard to imagine, in the late 1980’s and early 1990’s Geena Davis had more star power than Tom Hanks. The actress starred opposite Jeff Goldblum in the well-received 1986 remake of “The Fly” and followed that with “Beetlejuice, a funny 1988 film about the afterlife where Michael Keeton played the title character. Davis made her mark in 1988’s “The Accidental Tourist,” a comedy-drama where she was the love interest of William Hurt. Davis’ portrayal of the eccentric Muriel Pritchett in that film earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. Coming off 1991’s groundbreaking “Thelma & Louise,” Geena Davis starred in “A League of Their Own,” a Penny Marshall film. The plot honored the women of the All-American Girls Profession Baseball League (AAGPBL), a baseball league founded by gum magnate Philip K. Wrigley. The league and the dedicated players kept baseball alive during wartime and continued to play until 1954. Thirty years later, Amazon revealed plans for an eight-episode series set in 1943. Although billed as a comedy, the TV series, like the original movie, won’t shy away from the deadly impact of World War II. When looking back at Marshall’s “A League of

ceptional baseball player for a local dairy. After a scout (the hilarious Jon Lovitz) arrived to look at the “farm girls,” Dottie and her little sister Kit (Lori Petty) traveled to baseball tryouts and became part of the Rockford Peaches. Dottie emerged as the brightest star in the league and received press coverage, which made sister Kit rather jealous. Hanks’ portrayal of Jimmy Dugan, a former Cubs player who had a drinking problem, was intriguing. The friction between Dugan and Dottie was very evident at first because she thought he was washed up. Dottie finally shamed him into doing his job and they eventually ‘A League of Their Own’ photo courtesy Columbia Pictures became friends on the road. In later scenes, it seemed that something romantic between them Their Own,” it indicated how Hanks and Davis while her husband Bob (Bill Pullman) was overheaded in different directions after the film. Da- seas. Years later, a visibly saddened Dottie came vis took roles in “Cutthroat Island” and “Stuart across Jimmy’s player photo, which showed the Little” while Hanks left comedies such as “Joe vs. date of his death. the Volcano” to take a serious role in “Philadel“A League of Their Own” had the perfect blend phia.” of characters, especially when it came to Dottie His interpretation of Forrest Gump, a charac- and Jimmy. Davis and Hanks inhabited those ter created by author Winston Groom, became characters quite well and, whenever I thought of so memorable that it spawned a chain of seafood the film, their relationship always came to mind. restaurants. Hanks also won Oscars for his work Here’s hoping the Amazon series finds that same in “Philadelphia” and “Forrest Gump.” kind of chemistry. In 1992, though, Geena Davis had the star power and talent to play Dottie Hinson, an ex-

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COLLECTIBLES

June 15 , 2022 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

HELP WANTED

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www.mycnews.com • Community News • June 15, 2022

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Feature

June 15, 2022 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

Yeggs

John Hanna

Crossword: CARS

‘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 The world is getting pretty messed up out there. Between weird viruses and wars and inflation it’s becoming a total creep out. I’m old enough to remember a bad day. It happened when the tape on my cassette recording became unwound. I’d have to grab a pencil and stick it into one of the little cartridge holes then manually rewind the thing. Of course, there would always be that one annoying crease formed that wouldn’t unwrinkle. It caused a permanent hiccup in the tape; usually in the middle of the best song. The struggle was real, but we pressed on. Yes, those were hard times during the good old days. But today we’ve got an issue that has plagued the country with a vengeance! It has spread faster than creamy peanut butter on hot toast. What is it? Corona virus? Pshaw! That was so last year…and the year before…and...nope. Omicron virus? Omi-who? Nah, a mere blip. What we’ve been hit with is more troubling. It is far more disturbing. What I’m talking about is “on-hold music”! Every single time I make a call and need to be put on hold the most ear-grinding, nerve-rattling, mind-grating noise pollution is played as I wait! It’s never jaunty little ditties to make my waiting a pleasure…NO! It’s the worst! Jarring, tinny noise that sounds like it’s been lifted from one of my dusty old cassettes after the tape has been pulled out and tangled up then placed in the microwave. Here we are with the greatest inventions of

all time to include electric cars, smart phones, and stuffed crust pizza. We have advanced so far since my tunes in that plastic box, BUT we still cannot get decent sounding on-hold music. Why is that? Why can I take a funny video of my cat with my telephone and send it instantaneously to my daughter six states away, but technology still hasn’t advanced enough to get an adequate sound system through the phone lines? I know. I’ll ask a teenager. They know everything. “Teenager, why is it that the on-hold music has not advanced with the 21st century?” “Dude, it’s stuff left over from the Civil War. No one’s replaced it ‘cause no one actually uses the phone anymore except you Boomers. “ Question answered.

Music to my ears

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

ACROSS 1. Fountain treat 5. Pharaoh’s cobra 8. “____ the Woods,” movie 12. Gulf V.I.P. 13. Native American tent 14. Rapper Dogg 15. Hindu princess 16. *Used to alert when driving 17. “____ ____ me, then who?” 18. *Corvette, e.g. 20. Cambodian money 21. *Like Stephen King’s Christine 22. “Some Nights” (2012) band 23. *Aston follower 26. State legislature’s home 30. 7th letter of Greek alphabet 31. *What I used to step on the gas 34. Lowest brass 35. Salon offerings 37. Exclamation of surprise 38. Fathered 39. Do like phoenix 40. Underarm 42. The Jackson 5’s “____ Be There” 43. 3 or 6 in 3+6=9

45. Knit cap 47. Shed tears 48. Winter Olympics participant 50. Embarkation location 52. *Earth traveler (2 words) 56. 2-time NBA Champion Rajon 57. Double-reed instrument 58. Muscovite or biotite 59. Lopsided 60. Undesirable dwelling 61. Causing pain 62. Like certain military tent 63. Between “ready” and “go” 64. #63 Across, pl. DOWN 1. J. Lo’s ex 2. Wet nurse 3. *Don’t cross it when driving 4. Hot dish stand 5. Garlicky mayonnaise 6. Shopping ____ 7. Pub offering 8. *Car name that sounds like “unending” synonym 9. Opposite of all 10. Hammer or sickle 11. Choose or select 13. Like a rosebush 14. Maple goo, alt. sp.

19. French city, popular coronation location 22. Like a certain Tuesday 23. First ‘M’ in MGM 24. Aweigh 25. Turn toddler into an adult 26. Chicken house 27. Home of famous shroud 28. Obelus, pl. 29. Soup server 32. *Car company founded by a Henry 33. Unit of electrical resistance 36. *German luxury car 38. *Driving maneuver 40. Take your pick 41. In the same place, in a footnote 44. Cupid’s ammo 46. Smells 48. Expensive fur 49. Type of whip 50. Do like a model 51. Squid’s defense, pl. 52. Death, to some 53. Kamala Harris, e.g. 54. Not counterfeit 55. Dose of sunshine, pl. 56. *Car name that also means Aries SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 9