CNSTC: December 8, 2021

December 8, 2021

The best and brightest

Around Town O’Fallon designated “Purple Heart City” by national veterans’ organization. Pg. 4 Rein in energy expenses this holiday season. Pg. 6

Healthy Living Breast cancer: your questions answered. Pg. 3

Business

The Regional Business Council Awards $100,000 to area nonprofits. Pg. 7

Features

Submitted photo Pictured above are finalists from last year’s city of Saint Charles Annual City Lights Competition. To view and vote on this year’s nominees, check out the city’s social media platforms or visit the www.stcharlescity.gov website.

The city of St. Charles is hosting its 18th Annual City Lights Competition where residents and businesses compete to have the best holiday decorations

By Brett Auten Decorating for the holiday season has become a staple of the month of December.

The blinking and twinkling strands of lights roped through bushes and trees. The red, green, and white bulbs dangling from the eves of a home. Even the oversized blowups swaying in the late fall wind, all plays a role in setting the mood for what’s to come.

The city of St. Charles is currently hosting its 18th Annual City Lights Competition. Residents and businesses within the boundaries of St. Charles compete yearly on who has the best holiday decorations and the competition is always friendly, but serious.

Ken and Sue VonAhsen are among this year’s nominees.

“We enjoy the season and we do this for others to enjoy as well,” Ken said. “We had a tree that we always decorated and that became popular in the neighborhood. When that tree died, we moved the decorating to the house. It has slowly increased as we go along.”

The VonAhsens display can be viewed at 901 Penrose Lane in St. Charles.

“Our neighbors kid us about it,” Sue VonAhsen said. “But they are fine with it.”

Of all the nominated locations, Mayor Dan Borgmeyer will pick his favorite for the “Mayor’s Choice” Award and, new to 2021, the city of St. Charles is leaving it up

to the community to decide on the remaining ten winners.

Voting will be now through Dec. 15.

Votes can be submitted through the city’s social media and via the www.stcharlescity. gov website. Winners will receive a sign for their yard as well as a special, commemorative holiday ornament.

For Carl and Liz Bobis, at 1613 Wild Goose Run, putting a smile on others’ faces is what it is all about.

“Even when we were putting everything up, people would stop and mention how (the decorated house) brings them joy,” Liz Bobis said. “I both asked and apologized See ‘LIGHTS’ page 2

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Around Town

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

December 8, 2021 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

‘LIGHTS’ from cover to our neighbors. We point our speakers away from their homes and have everything turned off by 8:30 p.m. during the week.”

While visiting the Bobis’, you can drop off any special letters in the North Pole mailbox or take a gander at their Little Free Library.

Like the others, Paul Rosell decorates not just for himself, but others. He got so good at it during Halloween and Christmas, that his neighbors in New Town waved the white flag and asked if he wanted to take over pretty much the whole block. You will be hard-pressed to miss the themed stretch of Star Wars, Frozen, and the Nutcracker at 3599 South New Town Avenue.

“You can see us as soon as you drive into the neighborhood,” Rosell said.

“You can’t miss us.”

The St. Charles Community Development Department will provide a City Lights map so residents and visitors to St. Charles can take a guided tour of the nominated displays.

“One string of lights is just as pretty as 1,000 strings,” Rosell said. “It’s about bringing joy to people’s lives.”

A virtual video tour is also available on the city’s website as well as the link to the survey for voting. Winners will be announced Dec. 21.

Submitted photos Pictured above are some of the finalists from last year’s city of Saint Charles Annual City Lights Competition.

To view and vote on this year’s nominees, check out the city’s social media platforms or visit the www. stcharlescity.gov website.

Inspiration Corner: What to do when the holidays are ‘ho hum’ The lights sparkle around St. Charles as people get into the spirit of the holidays.

But what is that exactly? Is it a feeling? Is it a grand gesture toward a friend or loved one? Is it a memory or a mood? Is it all of the above or something else entirely?

I turned on the television recently to invoke the nostalgia of my childhood and discovered a movie titled “12 Dates of Christmas.” The premise was that of a woman who had a bad blind date and then woke up to discover she was to relive that day over and over until she got it right. Was it cheesy? Yes. But I like my schmaltz extra gooey this time of year.

I won’t spoil the plot, but at one point in the movie, an important character tells Kate (the protagonist) that change is an important force in life – one she must accept in order to move forward. For those of us who do

not respond well to change, we sympathize with a character who is loathe to let go of the past. We cling to our traditions like rats to cheese, even when they do not bring us true joy. That is why many of us, like Katie, try to relive the old ways around the holidays.

Worse, people expect us to have a “happy holiday,” as if there is no alternative. But many of us are not feeling it. Some of us have lost loved ones. Others are coping with rigorous work schedules or the melodrama of family conflict. We use movies to escape our hum drum lives but when the credits roll, we sigh. We can’t discard the longing in our hearts for a love that surpasses feelings.

I have good news: there is a truth that transcends trauma. There is a light that shines in the darkness. There is a hope that defies despair. It is not a 12-step program – it’s a person – and His name is Jesus.

Unlike Kate, who must practice until her life is perfect in order to move forward, Jesus (who is God) accepts us as we are. Right now. At this very moment. This is something more powerful than decking the halls with bows of holly.

Love is not a feeling; it is a choice. Christmas is the time we celebrate when God came to earth to heal us and that is infinitely better than nostalgia or holiday “feels.”

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 • December 8, 2021

Healthy Living

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www.bjcstcharlescounty.org/events

Breast cancer: your questions answered

By Dr. Virginia Herrmann Last year, breast cancer surpassed lung cancer as the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the world. Now, more than ever, it’s important to educate yourself about breast cancer, understand the risk factors and know what you can do for prevention and early detection. Read on for helpful answers to some of the most commonly asked questions regarding breast cancer.

How would someone be diagnosed with breast cancer?

If a woman feels a mass or lump, it always warrants a visit to the doctor.

However, women are most commonly diagnosed today before any symptoms arise thanks to mammography.

Through a yearly mammogram, cancer can be detected at the very earliest, microscopic stage called stage zero. This is when breast cancer is most treatable and why it is so important to be screened.

What factors increase your risk of breast cancer?

Two major risk factors include a personal history of breast cancer and a family history of breast cancer – even on your father’s side. Less commonly known, women whose menstrual periods started very early, around or before the age of 11, and women who have never had a full-term pregnancy are also at an increased risk.

If you’re at risk for breast cancer, what steps should you take for your prevention?

First, consider being evaluated at a high-risk clinic, like the one at Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital or Progress West Hospital. A thorough evaluation can provide an actual risk percentage. If your risk is high enough, your doctor may recommend more frequent surveillance or an additional type of surveillance, such as an MRI scan or ultrasound. Leading a healthier lifestyle can lower your risk, and for high-risk women, there are medications that can actually lower it by 50%

Bigstock

For women with early-stage breast cancer, what are their treatment options?

With mammography as sophisticated as it is today, women are being diagnosed very early. In fact, at least 25% of women with breast cancer are diagnosed at stage zero. While treatment is tailored to each woman’s unique case, it often involves an outpatient surgery called a lumpectomy, which removes only the affected area. Some women

may require medication or radiation therapy following surgery, but their outlook is excellent. If you’re 40 or older, don’t delay your annual mammogram. Early detection is vital in ensuring a positive outcome.

Virginia Herrmann, MD, is a Washington University medical oncologist with an office on the campus of Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital. For more information, call 636-928-WELL.

Life-saving stroke procedure now available in St. Charles County Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital is now the only hospital in St. Charles County to perform thrombectomy procedures, which have already proven to save lives. They are used on patients who have experienced a stroke caused by blockage of blood flow to the brain in one of the large vessels. The goal is to restore blood flow to the brain as quickly as possible so the patient isn’t left with any permanent damage.

On Nov. 4, 84-year-old retired Marine James Aumann became the first patient to undergo a thrombectomy procedure at Barnes-Jewish St. Peter’s Hospital. That morning his right side went limp and he wasn’t able to speak. He was soon rushed to Barnes-Jewish St. Peter’s Hospital.

“He was a dead man until this procedure,” his daughter Cindy Gilmer said. “He was not going to survive the stroke with any quality of life.”

Thankfully, within in two weeks the Maryland Heights resident was back home and once again fully independent – just in time for Thanksgiving and the holidays.

“Every minute counts because time is brain,” said Dr. Brendan Eby who’s a Washington University neurologist at Barnes-Jewish St. Peter’s Hospital.

“Community access saves critical time for patients experiencing a stroke.”

Having thrombectomy available in St. Charles county is also significant because area stroke patients now no longer need to travel to Barnes-Jewish Hospital for this procedure – saving them time and possibly their life. Every 40 seconds someone in the United States has a stroke and one in every six deaths from cardiovascular disease is due to stroke.

Submitted photo Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital is now the only hospital in St. Charles County to perform thrombectomy procedures.

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Around Town

December 8, 2021 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

Missouri expands eligibility for COVID-19 booster shots to all fully vaccinated adults The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has amended the state’s standing orders for COVID-19 vaccine administration immediately authorizing use of a single booster dose for all individuals ages 18 and older after completion of primary vaccination with any FDA-authorized or approved COVID-19 vaccine. This follows the FDA and CDC’s announcements today authorizing and endorsing the use of single dose boosters for all adults.

Those who are 18 or older and fully vaccinated against COVID-19 are eligible for a booster shot: • At least two months after a one-dose vaccine of Janssen/Johnson & Johnson, or • At least six months after a two-dose vaccine of Pfizer BioNTech or Moderna.

“The data we released yesterday shows that vaccines are undisputedly saving lives,” said Donald Kauerauf, Director of DHSS. “These vaccines are safe and effective in preventing serious illness. I would encourage all eligible adults to seek a booster to maintain a high level of protection, especially as we enter colder months when instances of respiratory infections are more readily circulated. With the upcoming holidays, where you will come in contact with your loved ones, getting vaccinated is the way to prevent getting sick and unknowingly exposing others. Thousands of Missourians are also still choosing to receive their primary series of COVID-19 vaccinations in Missouri each week, so we are continuing to make progress as a state.”

COVID-19 booster shots are administered anywhere the COVID-19 vaccine is available. Individuals do not need to get their booster shot at the same location they received their initial series. Those seeking a booster shot can visit MOStopsCovid.com to find a nearby provider and schedule an appointment or locate a walk-in clinic.

Individuals are strongly urged to get their flu vaccine at the same time they receive the COVID-19

booster shot. Although it is still too early to determine the severity of influenza this year, there have already been multiple outbreaks on college campuses across the United States. It is recommended that individuals six months and older get their flu vaccine annually. Find a flu shot near you at MOStopsFlu.com.

Research shows that all COVID-19 vaccines authorized in the United States continue to be highly effective at preventing severe illness and death. Individuals should only get a booster shot when it is recommended, not earlier. Learn more about COVID-19 booster doses from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

How Missourians can get a free COVID-19 vaccine: • Check for vaccine appointments at Vaccines. gov, where you can search for availability by vaccine type (e.g., Pfizer).

• Call the CDC’s COVID-19 vaccine hotline at 1-800-232-0233 (or TTY 1-888-720-7489).

Help is available in multiple languages.

• Locate local vaccination events in Missouri at MOStopsCovid.com.

• Seniors and homebound adults can make arrangements using information at MOStopsCovid.com/seniors • Missouri DHSS COVID-19 Public Hotline • 1-877-435-8411 • Mon.-Fri., 7:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.

How Missourians can get a free COVID-19 test: • Walk in or schedule an appointment for a test at one of the state’s free community testing sites: COVID-19 Community Testing Sites.

• Order a test through the state’s free at-home COVID-19 testing program.

• Find a free testing option near you through the federal pharmacy locations.

O’Fallon designated “Purple Heart City” by national veterans’ organization The city of O’Fallon has received special recognition from the national Military Order of the Purple Heart, which designated O’Fallon as a “Purple Heart City” during the city’s Nov. 11 Veterans Day Ceremony.

This prestigious award is given to cities and communities that display their honor and remembrance of U.S. veterans and the sacrifices service members have made to protect America’s freedom and values.

Commander Sydney Stanton, from Fenton Chapter 125 of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, presented O’Fallon with a ceremonial plaque and Purple Heart flag during the service, which was held on the 20th anniversary of the opening of the city’s Veterans Memorial Walk monument.

“It is such an honor to be named a Purple Heart City,” said Mayor Bill Hennessy. “O’Fallon is grateful to all members of America’s armed forces – active and retired – for their courageous service, and our city has a long and proud history of recognizing those who have paid the ultimate price on our behalf.”

This designation reflects O’Fallon’s continuing com-

Photo courtesy city of O’Fallon Commander Sydney Stanton, from Fenton Chapter 125 of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, presented O’Fallon with a ceremonial plaque and Purple Heart flag during the city’s Nov. 11 Veterans Day Ceremony.

mitment to its veterans, which includes adding Purple Heart parking spaces at civic centers and city parks and public ceremonies during veterans’ holidays and observances.

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • December 8, 2021

www.gatewayfiber.com

Around Town

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Around Town

December 8, 2021 • 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

Three ways to rein in energy expenses this holiday season The holidays are fast approaching, but before you set up your inflatable snowman and turn on your lighting display, make some easy adjustments to reduce your energy expenses.

“Convenient product substitutions and personalized account options give customers the power to save money without sacrificing holiday spirit,” said Tony Lozano, director of energy solutions at Ameren Missouri.

“When combined with the cold weather, shortened daylight hours and holiday lights, the demand for energy often rises this time of year.”

Here are the top three ways you can keep your energy bills under control this holiday season: • Swap in LEDs in your lighting displays. Make sure your décor is as energy-efficient as possible by using Energy Star certified lights, which use 75% less energy per strand than incandescent lights. LED holiday lights are available for indoor and outdoor use.

• Stay updated on your energy usage online. Review your energy use on the new Account Dashboard when logging in to your account at AmerenMissouri.com from a computer or mobile device. Enroll in alerts to see your bill projections and get helpful usage and budget notifications to stay on track.

• Adjust your payment due date. You can adjust your Ameren Missouri payment due date to a

time that’s most convenient. Modify yours by logging in to your account at AmerenMissouri. com, go to the Billing Options page and select the Pick A Due Date option on the right side of the page. If you don't have an online account, registering is fast and easy.

There are other ways you can impact your energy bills, too. Using smart thermostats and advanced power strips, and unplugging energy-draining appliances when not in use can help you use less energy and save money. For a limited time, get a smart thermostat for as low as $0 plus tax and shipping on brands like Nest and Sensi. This offer requires enrollment in the Peak Time Savings program. To learn more about home energy efficiency resources and offers, visit AmerenMissouriSavings.com.

And since this is the season of giving, consider donating to Ameren Missouri’s Dollar More program.

Adding just $1 per month to your energy bill can help provide financial support to families in need. To find out more and sign up, visit AmerenMissouri.com/DollarMore.

If you’re having trouble paying your energy bill, Ameren Missouri has programs in place to help customers facing financial hardship. Go to AmerenMissouri.com/EnergyAssistance to learn more about your options.

New public works director appointed for the city of St. Charles The city of St. Charles has announced that Nicholas Galla will serve as the new director of public works.

Galla has been employed with the city of St. Charles since 2015 and has over 17 years of experience in civil engineering. Previously, he has served as the assistant city engineer for the city of St. Charles as well as interim director of public works.

Prior to the city of St. Charles, Galla was a senior transportation engineer at Olsson Associates and a squad leader at HNTB, responsible for managing a team of engineers. A local of Missouri, Galla graduated with a b.s. in civil engineering from Missouri University of Science and Technology (MS&T) and has been a licensed professional engineer with the

state of Missouri since 2009. He also grew up in the St. Charles area and graduated from Francis Howell North High School.

“I am extremely proud of our public works department and their service to our community,” says Mayor Dan Borgmeyer. “I believe Galla’s knowledge and experience will help bring a fresh perspective to the Public Works department and ensure that St. Charles remains a beautiful and safe place to live, work and play.”

The department of public works has around 90 employees that help maintain the city’s streets, water mains, sewers, facilities, and other infrastructure, along with 460 miles of right-of-way.

Public invited to open house meeting on MO 370 and Salt River Road Interchange, Ramp 1 project The city of St. Peters invites the public to an open house meeting to learn about the proposed Highway 370 and Salt River Road Interchange, Ramp 1 project.

The open house will take place on Wednesday, Dec. 8, between 5-7 p.m. at City Hall in the Cultural Arts Centre, Room A. Project exhibits will be on display and city staff will be available to answer questions during the Open House.

The Ramp 1 project is the first of two ramps planned for the existing interchange that connects Salt River Road with Highway 370 and I-70. Ramp 1 will connect eastbound Salt River Road with westbound/southbound MO 370 and I-70. A new 14-foot-wide concrete ramp will extend from the Spencer Road and Salt River Road intersection heading east to westbound/south-

bound MO 370. The project includes the addition of an auxiliary lane on MO 370 between Ramp 1 and the westbound I-70 ramp. The Route 370 bridge crossing at Premier Parkway will be widened with the project.

Construction of this project is eligible to receive 29% federal reimbursement funding, 49% Missouri Department of Transportation cost share funding, and 11% St. Charles County Road Board reimbursement funding.

The total construction cost for this project is estimated at $3.28 million. The city of St. Peters would pay about $360,800 of that estimate.

The project is planned for completion in 2022.

Learn more about this project and other transportation improvement projects at www.stpetersmo.net/ streets.

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • December 8, 2021

Business

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Buddy Bags receives more than $2,800 in groceries from Gateway Fiber at Big Sticky’s charity event As part of Gateway Fiber’s ongoing community outreach efforts, Lincoln County-based charity Buddy Bags received a donation of over $2,800 in groceries from Gateway, thanks to “Gateway Gives: Dining Out for Buddy Bags,” a customer appreciation event hosted by Big Sticky’s Barbecue in Troy on Oct. 9.

Proceeds from food sales at the event supported Buddy Bags’ continuing commitment to meet the needs of feeding food-insecure kids in the district. Since 2011, the Troy-based organization has packed bags full of non-perishable meals and snacks for kids who might not otherwise have food away from school.

“The amazing response from our customers and Big Sticky’s customers to support this great cause was terrific,” said John Meyer, Gateway’s Chief Marketing Officer. “We are honored to help support Buddy Bags’ mission.

Our customers showed their hearts are in the same place, too, through their generosity. Together we can make a

difference in the community.”

Rather than donate cash, Gateway spent the raised funds on a shopping spree at Save-A-Lot for items Buddy Bags needs the most for the students in the program, such as non-perishable meals and snacks. Each Buddy Bag costs $5.50 per bag and supplies a child with enough food for a twoday weekend. The groceries purchased with the donation filled over 500 Buddy Bags.

According to Beverly Flerlage of Buddy Bags, “We are feeding approximately 500 kids a week, so this will be a tremendous help.”

Big Sticky’s co-owner Amber Fetter has been a huge supporter of Buddy Bags for a long time, so much so that the restaurant hosts a Buddy Bag collection station in the corner.

“Buddy Bags is an organization near and dear to our hearts,” Fetter said.

“As a former teacher, I saw the need in some of my students every day and was so glad when Buddy Bags stepped up to fill it.”

Superior Heating & Cooling celebrates second location with ribbon cutting

Submitted photo

Andrew and Tricia Mackey celebrated the grand opening of the newest location for Superior Heating & Cooling with a ribbon cutting on Nov. 18.

Joining Andrew and Tricia were staff members of Superior Heating & Cooling, ambassadors and staff with the Greater St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce.

As a business, Superior Heating & Cooling was established in 1972 by patriarch, Jack Mackey. Today, Jack’s son, Alan serves as president and Andrew Mackey continues in the family business by running their first location in St. Charles County, Superior Heating &

Cooling, located at 101 Stag Industrial Drive in Lake St. Louis.

With a focus on servicing and installing furnaces, air conditioning systems, heat pumps, humidifiers and home automation components such as Ecobee Thermostats, you can trust Superior Heating & Cooling to provide service technicians who are technically trained and professional – giving their customers the best service possible.

For more information on Superior Heating & Cooling, visit their website at www.SuperiorHVACSTL.com or call their St. Charles County location at 636926-0000.

Gateway’s mission is to positively impact the local community through better internet service in an area traditionally underserved by other providers and to be a local company committed to local causes.

“Gateway was on board from the start, as the pioneers of this event, working to make it a reality,” Submitted photo Fetter said. “Their generAs part of Gateway Fiber’s ongoing community outreach efforts, Lincoln ous contribution means County-based charity Buddy Bags received a donation of over $2,800 in groeven more kids will get ceries from Gateway, thanks to “Gateway Gives: Dining Out for Buddy Bags,” meals and snacks instead a customer appreciation event hosted by Big Sticky’s Barbecue in Troy on of going hungry.”

Oct. 9.

Being a local small business, Gateway wanted to helped another small business get a help fellow small business Big Sticky’s bump in revenue for the weekend. It boost sales by hosting the event when was a win-win for everyone.” traffic has been affected by street conBuddy Bag accepts donations all struction in downtown Troy, limiting year, not just while school is in sesparking options outside the restaurant. sion. To contribute, reach out to Bud“By holding the event at Big Sticky’s,” dy Bags on their Facebook page or the Meyer explained, “we not only raised Lincoln County R-III School District money for a great cause but also page.

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What’s Happening

December 8, 2021 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com tarts.org, for more concert details and a video preview.

Take Notice . . .

The events listed in this section are the latest updates as of press time, please check with individual sites for the most up to date cancellations and reschedule info.

EVENTS

Dec. 12: Holiday concert

The Choral Arts Singers will be performing a live holiday concert on Dec.12 at 2 p.m. at

Living Lord Lutheran Church at 500 Cedar Circle Drive in Lake St. Louis. Concerts are free, donations are appreciated. Please visit www.concer-

Dec. 12: Holiday home tour

Join the Wentzville Community Historical Society for their third annual Holiday Home Tour. The tour this year will be a driving tour, and will start at the Historical Center at 310 W. Pearce Blvd. From there you’ll be able to drive and enter several decorated homes in downtown Wentzville. Afterwards, you are invited to continue the fun at Friendship Brewery Company, where you will be given a free drink ticket, and be eligible for a lovely gift basket. There will also be 50/50 raffle tickets for sale.

The homes will be open from 3 to 7 p.m. (last tour starts at 6 p.m.). Tickets are $20, and may be purchased before the event at Ellbee’s General Store, Ehll’s Western Auto as well as being available the day of the event at the Historical Center.

Proceeds go to the Wentzville Historical Society. For more details visit www.wentzvillehistoricalsociety.org.

Dec. 18: Craft show

Handmade for the Holidays candy/cookie sale, crafts and nativity displays will take place from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Wentzville United Methodist Church at 725 Wall Street in Wentzville. For more information visit www: livelovegrow. org or call 636-327-6377.

Dec. 18: Youth orchestra concert

St. Charles County Youth Orchestra 25th Anniversary Winter Concert takes place at 2 p.m. at Missouri Baptist University Pillsbury Chapel at 1 College Park Dr., in St. Louis County. To purchase tickets contact sccyomusic@gmail. com.

ONGOING EVENTS Mondays: Optimist Club meetings

Mondays: NAMI St. Louis Con nection Recovery Support Group

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.

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: Take off Pounds Sensibly

If you want to drink, that’s your business. If you want to stop, we can help. Call Alcoholics Anonymous at 636-9700013.

Take off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS) meets every Monday from 9:30 - 10:30 a.m. Weighins 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 636-2065306.

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: Anonymous

Alcoholics

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 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

holiday performance by the Choral Arts singers

Sunday, December 5, 2:00 p.m.

Connection Christian Church 1332 Feise Road, Dardenne Praire, MO

Sunday, December 12, 2:00 p.m.

Living Lord Lutheran Church 500 Cedar Circle Drive, Lake St. Louis, MO

Admission is FREE. Donations appreciated. www.concertarts.org

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. 314-3696521.

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 636-3970866 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, 636219-0553.

Mondays: Mondays:

Measurement

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

Measurement Mondays is a family-friendly breastfeeding support group.

We are open to all moms and 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.

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • December 8, 2021 Mondays and Wednesdays: Tai Chi for arthritis class

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

For more information call 636-949-3372.

Tuesdays: Women’s AA weekly meeting

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

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.

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

Tuesdays: Social club for widows and widowers

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

Tuesdays: 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

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

Tuesdays: Presbyterian Basketball

Dardenne Church

8-9:30 p.m., in the Christian Life Center, 7400 South Outer 364 in Dardenne Prairie.

Open to high school and adult men.

Tuesdays: Central Missouri Railroad Association meeting

This unique organization is for railroad modelers, railfans, photographers and railroad retirees with layouts in O, HO, N hoping to add G scales. Meetings are on second Tuesdays of the month from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Warrenton Masonic Lodge. For more info call 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: 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. 636-9281928.

Tuesdays and Thursdays: Get Fit Exercise Classes

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

Wednesdays: TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) Club

TOPS 502 Wright City meets every Wednesday morning at First Baptist Church at 104 Hedeman Ave. in Wright City. Weigh-in 7 - 8:30 a.m.

Meeting starts at 9 a.m. For more information call 314504-5202

What’s Happening

Wednesdays: Food pantry

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

Wednesdays: St. Charles Area Wood Carvers

Meetings are held from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. at the Hollenbeck Middle School at 4555 Central School Road in St. Charles. Visitors are always welcome. For more infor-

SUDOKU answers from page F-1

9

mation visit http://www.stcharl e s are awo o d c ar ve rs . com/ or contact Charles Sapp at cwsapp@charter.net.

Wednesdays: Quilt guild

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

CROSSWORD answers from page F-4

10

Sports

December 8, 2021 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

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NEW CUSTOMER SPECIAL!

Sports you see with Gary B . . .

Class Two title goes to St. Charles High School Lutheran St. Charles head football coach and former National Football League running back Arlen Harris is proud of the great season the Cougars have had and about their 33-27 win over the Lamar Tigers in this past weekend’s Class Two state title game on Faurot Field in Columbia, Missouri. The head coach had played professionally with the St. Louis Rams, Detroit Lions and the Atlanta Falcons.

The Cougars (11-2) played in their first state championship football game against Lamar (13-0) in the title game.

With less than 10 seconds left in the state championship game against the Tigers at Mizzou, a two-yard touchdown from Arlen Harris Jr., gave Lutheran St. Charles the lead and the school’s first state football title in a 33-27 win. He added a 52-yard fumble recovery for a touchdown earlier in the game.

Harris Jr. has already committed to go to Stanford University *The Champions

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Ambush win their first game The St. Louis Ambush play their home games at the Family Arena in St. Charles.

The Ambush posted their first win of the 2021-22 season when they defeated the Dallas Sidekicks 8-4 recently at the Allen Event Center in Allen, Texas and improved to 1-2.

Just over a minute into the fourth quarter, Vadim Cojocov scored for St. Louis to make it 7-2. With the sixth attacker in play for Dallas, William Eskay scored an empty-netter for the Ambush to increase their lead to 8-2.

Dallas staged a late comeback attempt when Mo-

MEET JERAMIAH SOLES

Jeramiah Soles is a highly motivated real estate agent serving St. Charles county and surrounding areas. His past experience in the hospitality industry has contributed to his customer focused approach and attention to detail. He is loyal and understanding with his clients, while delivering service with integrity.

Growing up in Warrenton, MO and now living with his family in St. Charles, MO, he understands the appeal of both rural and city living. Jeramiah’s hobbies include gardening, outdoor activities, and adventures with his family.

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rales notched his second of the game then completed the hat trick.

It would prove to be too little, too late for the Sidekicks, as the Ambush came away with an 8-4 victory, their first on the young season. *Great win Well known player signed by the Ambush The St. Louis professional soccer team announced the signing of Kyle Swanner.

Swanner started playing soccer at the age of three and soccer is in his blood, literally. He is the son of St. Louis indoor soccer legend and current Ambush assistant coach Jamie Swanner.

Kyle played club soccer for NORCO, Swanner United and the SLSG Academy, where he played on a national championship team at age 14 and also competed in England and Holland. He chose to forego high school soccer in favor of continuing his development at the club level.

Swanner’s collegiate career included SIUE in Edwardsville, Illinois, Lewis and Clark Community College in Godfrey, Illinois (where he was team captain) and Quincy University in Quincy, Illinois. He has primarily played midfield and defender thus far.

Ambush co-owner and General Manager Jeff Locker said, “We’re pleased to welcome the next generation of the Swanner soccer legacy and are excited to watch Kyle develop as a member of the Ambush.”

Kyle said, “I’m excited to play for the Ambush. It’s a great opportunity to push myself and I can’t wait to get started and make a contribution to bring the Ambush back to the top because the fans deserve our very best.” *Great addition to the squad

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 • December 8, 2021

Recipe: ’Tis the holiday baking season Walnut Pumpkin Cream Cheese Tart

F-1

– SUDOKU –

Directions:

Total time: 2 hours, 30 minutes | Servings: 12

Feature

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.

To make sweet tart crust: In medium bowl, stir flour, walnuts and powdered sugar. Stir in butter and egg. Using fork, stir well until soft dough forms. Gather into ball and wrap tightly.

Refrigerate at least 1 hour, or until dough is easy to handle.

Preheat oven to 350 F and coat 9-inch tart pan with removable bottom with nonstick cooking spray.

Lay pastry dough on lightly floured board and roll into 11-inch circle. Press dough into bottom and sides of prepared pan and poke with fork on bottom and sides. Bake 20 minutes.

Ingredients: Sweet Tart Crust: 1 1/4 cups flour 1/3 cup California walnuts, finely chopped 1/3 cup powdered sugar 1/3 cup salted butter, softened 1 large egg nonstick cooking spray

Filling: 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin 4 ounces low-fat cream cheese, softened 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 egg, plus 1 egg yolk 1/2 cup California walnuts, coarsely chopped whipped cream, for serving (optional)

To make filling: In medium bowl, whisk pumpkin and cream cheese until smooth.

Add brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, egg and egg yolk, beating until incorporated.

Pour into prepared crust and top with walnuts.

Bake 40 minutes, or until filling is set when pan is gently tapped.

Remove from oven and let cool. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Serve each slice with dollop of whipped cream, if desired.

To discover more festive dessert ideas, visit walnuts.org.

SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 8/9

‘Ghostbusters: Afterlife’ almost gives up the ghost

“G

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.

hostbusters: Afterlife,” the latest installment in the classic franchise, is a decent, yet underwhelming reboot with the same humor and action that made the original film successful.

After viewing the film; however, it’s clear that Jason Reitman and father Ivan didn’t plot out the story very well. Seeing all the classic scientific equipment and the ECTO-1 is great, but the pacing, characters and resolution leave a lot to be desired.

The story opens on Callie (Carrie Coon), a single mother who, along with her two children, are evicted from their home. Callie’s father was Egon Spengler (the late Harold Ramis), one of the legendary Ghostbusters who rid New York City of pesky spooks, specters and ghosts in the 1980s. Callie and her dad had a falling out years earlier and, after learning he has passed away, she takes her family to live in his broken-down farmhouse.

Egon Spengler had good reasons for moving to that rural area, however. Ivo Shandor (J.K. Simmons), the notorious Gozer worshipper, set up a mining operation designed to bring Gozer back to Earth. Callie’s children, Phoebe (Mckenna Grace) and Trevor (Finn Wolfhard), also discover the legacy their grandfather left

teacher who is amazed at her technical knowledge. To advance the plot, Grooberson suffers the same fate that Louis Tully (Rick Moranis) did in the original film. Grooberson is an interesting character that needed more screentime. Carrie Coon’s Callie also gets pulled into supernatural maelstrom along with her children and their friends.

Arguably, the best parts of “Ghostbusters: Afterlife” feature the original cast members. Dan Aykroyd “Ghostbusters: Afterlife” photo courtesy Columbia Pictures reprises his role as Ray Stantz while Bill Murray’s Peter Venkman, now a behind. When ghostly things happen, Phoebe, married man, is snarky as ever. Ernie Hudson, Trevor and their new friend Podcast (Logan though, is outstanding as Dr. Winston ZeddeKim) use Egon’s gear to ward off the bad spirits. more. In the original film, Hudson’s character Fans of the 1984 original will find lots to like was out-of-work, but he later became a powerin “Ghostbusters: Afterlife.” Phoebe learns to ful and influential businessman. He also shows use Egon’s gear while Trevor, with a little spir- strong affection for the ECTO-1.

Although McKenna Grace and Finn Wolfitual help, gets the ECTO-1 in running condition. The Ghostbuster vehicle contains a few hard are logical choices to carry the franchise surprises, though, including a gunner’s chair forward, a post-credits scene points to two that Phoebe puts to good use. The hatch in the characters who could easily carry the “Ghostbottom also is quite useful for releasing mobile busters” torch in a future sequel. Suffice it to ghost traps. The children even wear the same say, there’s more than a ghost of a chance of that happening. classic jumpsuits as the original 1984 cast.

“Ghostbusters: Afterlife,” rated PG-13, curMarvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) star Paul Rudd plays Mr. Grooberson, Phoebe’s science rently is playing in theaters.

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December 8, 2021 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

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

It has never been known to fail.

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Thank you, St. Jude. K.B.

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.

COLLECTIBLES

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. L.M.

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December 8, 2021 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

Yeggs

John Hanna

CROSSWORD: Happy Holidays

‘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 There’s nothing that drains a person’s energy like preparing for Thanksgiving dinner.

No wonder Black Friday is the day after. We need some stress-free relaxation after that traumatizing ordeal.

The meal prep alone for Thanksgiving took days in advance. First came the great turkey hunt. They’re rare this year. They must have found better hiding places. I had to fight a mob to grab my bird.

Crowds of people surrounded the turkey cooler. I was jostled and nearly trampled to death. I had to act fast. I plunged my arm in and grabbed hold of a big one and then got slugged for grabbing someone’s rear end cheek. I thought it was too squishy to be a frozen turkey.

I reached in again and pulled out someone’s purse. Oopsie! The third time was a success and I hurried home to get started.

First, the bean casserole. Oh no, not the canned stuff covered in gooey creamed glop. I might as well serve my guests sewage – fresh beans only.

The sweet potatoes were made from real yams with no marshmallow. If my company wanted s’mores I’d lock them outdoors by the fire pit armed with sticks.

The mashed potatoes and gravy and rolls all were made from scratch; as were the pies. None of the store-bought kind that are most likely made from polyester.

I then got out my fancy table decorations; and by that I mean a clean tablecloth. The table was set with the once-a-year china and crystal so my visitors would think we’re high class and don’t use

paper plates every other day.

By the time dinner was ready my bones, muscles and mind were gone and ready for a convalescent home.

The hungry hoard converged upon the meal like a swarm of ravenous sandworms and devoured everything in sight within five minutes flat. They then selected a movie to watch and immediately collapsed into a tryptophan coma.

I was left with dishes stacked to the ceiling and dinner remains scattered about like the aftermath of a massive school food fight. There were bloated bodies lying around the living room floor in various states of slumber. It looked like a murder scene of giant slugs.

I was too ginned up to relax, but not so exhausted I couldn’t plan next year’s festivities…early seating at Cracker Barrel.

Winner, winner, turkey dinner

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. Pilgrim’s destination 6. Make a scene 9. Rubik’s puzzle 13. Hawaii environs 14. Toothy fish 15. Cone-shaped dwelling 16. White Swan in “Swan Lake” ballerina 17. ____-Wan Kenobi 18. *Decorate with wreaths and holly, e.g.

19. *Either dessert or source of heat (2 words) 21. *____ Day, or second day of Christmastide 23. Land parcel 24. Strauss of denim fame 25. Broadband access overseer, acr.

28. Clarified butter 30. Acute one and obtuse one 35. Southeastern Asian country 37. Jouster’s breastplate 39. Shrewdness 40. Caspian basin river 41. *Pasadena’s Tournament of ____ 43. Tel ____, Israel 44. Native American emblem 46. “Why not?”

47. Hitchhiker’s quest 48. Omits when speaking

50. Hard to find 52. Bear’s winter quarters 53. Hoodwink 55. Scepter’s partner 57. *Number of days in Christmastide 60. *”Ugly” holiday party garb?

64. Prepare a letter 65. “Bingo!”

67. Hunger for 68. Pass-the-baton race 69. *Cranberry sauce sometimes comes from it 70. Same as tori 71. Raise the roof 72. German river 73. Stall sound DOWN 1. Whiny and miserable 2. Shade of beige 3. Finish a ceiling, to a plasterer 4. Marlboro alternative 5. Not digital 6. Bug-eyed 7. Not Uber 8. Social group 9. Ghana monetary unit 10. Second word of many fairytales 11. Cause of Titanic’s demise 12. Poetic “even” 15. Burdensome

20. Not this or that 22. Lab eggs 24. Time off 25. *Champagne holder 26. *Wassailing composition 27. Raccoon’s South American cousin 29. Feeling of superiority, pl.

31. ____ gum, food additive 32. Furiously angry 33. Exclude or omit 34. *Number of candles in kinara, Kwanzaa 36. *Troika vehicle 38. “Will be,” according to Doris 42. Asian goat antelope 45. Potpourri 49. Chevy Suburban, e.g.

51. Builds 54. *Popular holiday wish 56. Munchausen’s title 57. *Bedecked arbor 58. Shakespeare, to his friends?

59. And others, for short 60. Minus 61. Tropical edible root 62. Anon’s partner 63. Take a load off 64. Like some humor 66. *Traditional main holiday dish SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 9