December 15, 2021
A green gift
Around Town Dedication for Oak Grove Cemetery Veterans Memorial. Pg. 4 Family Arena offers fundraising opportunities. Pg. 4
Special Section Community Strong Spotlight. Pg. 3
School
WSD receives award for North Point High School. Pg. 6
Features
Submitted photo A donation from Keeven Brothers, LP last week is a key component in completing the Dardenne Greenway. The land is part of a 2.2-mile stretch that is needed to complete a 17-mile portion of the Greenway between I-64 and I-70.
11.13 acres of land has been donated to St Charles County that will be key to completing gaps between existing segments of the Dardenne Greenway By Brett Auten A big piece in an eco-friendly puzzle was donated last week. Mark Keeven of Keeven Brothers, LP, in St. Charles County, donated 11.13 acres of land to the county that will be key to completing gaps between existing segments of the Dardenne Greenway. The property, which includes a lake, is located on Highway K, bordered by Lou Fusz properties and adjacent to the O’Fallon Sports Park. The land is part of a 2.2-mile stretch that is needed to complete a 17-mile portion of the Greenway between I-64 and I-70. The greenway is one of many in the region overseen by Great Rivers Greenway,
an organization that connects communities together through parks, trails, and open spaces. “In a lot of ways, Dardenne (Prairie) is the backbone of the area,” Emma Klues, Vice President of Communications and Outreach for Great Rivers Greenway, said. “It connects a lot of parks, neighborhoods, and destinations along the way. It is right in the middle of so much.” The vision for Dardenne Greenway is to connect Broemmelsiek Park to Riverside Landing Park at the confluence of Dardenne Creek and the Mississippi River. Trails will connect to the Katy Trail, Veterans Tribute Park, Lakeside 370 and other points of interest.
“We are grateful to Mark Keeven for this donation and to County Councilman Joe Cronin for his work to help make this possible,” St. Charles County Executive Steve Ehlmann said. “Completing the Dardenne Greenway is our number one priority in the 2020 St. Charles County Greenway Master Plan, and this generous donation will keep us moving forward.” The Dardenne Greenway winds along Dardenne Creek in St. Charles County, and links together hundreds of acres of parks as well as neighborhoods, communities, businesses and schools. There is a paved trail in the greenway that makes it easy for you to See ‘GREEN’ page 2
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Around Town
December 15, 2021 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
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Submitted photos A donation from Keeven Brothers, LP last week is a key component in completing the Dardenne Greenway. The land is part of a 2.2-mile stretch that is needed to complete a 17-mile portion of the Greenway between I-64 and I-70. Great Rivers Greenway is a public agency connecting the St. Louis region with greenways. When complete, the concept calls for a 600-mile network of greenways connecting St. Louis City, St. Louis County and St. Charles County.
‘GREEN’ from cover leave your car behind and walk or ride to athletic fields, a dog park, St. Charles Community College or to just get outside and enjoy some fresh air. Currently, the BaratHaven to Bluebird section of Dardenne Greenway has 4.1 miles of trail, and between Highway N and St. Peters Golf Course, there are more than nine miles of trail complete or under construction. Another 1.5 miles is currently being designed. More acquisitions or easements to land are needed to complete this section of the Greenway. “We are fortunate to be able to work with the staff at Great Rivers Greenway to help connect these areas together,” Ehlmann said. “Providing a safe place to live, work and play is a top priority for St. Charles
County Government and this greenway will be a hub of parks, trails and open spaces across the county.” Great Rivers Greenway is a public agency connecting the St. Louis region with greenways. In 2000, a vote of the people created a sales tax to leave a legacy for future generations by connecting three counties together with greenways. When complete, the concept calls for a 600-mile network of greenways connecting St. Louis City, St. Louis County and St. Charles County. With collaboration by many partners and driven by input from community members, the greenways come to life piece by piece. The project has built 128 miles and counting with another almost 200 miles in planning. There are over 20 projects go-
ing at any given time and in all in various stages of planning, design and construction. Greenways provide active ways to get around town, create more places outside to explore and enjoy, make it easy to lead a healthy lifestyle, connect communities, conserve natural resources and enhance our economy. “Greenways contribute to the vibrancy of the city,” Klaus said. “Not only do you get to know your community and your neighborhoods a little bit better, but it makes it attractive for others to come and maybe stay.” Klaus encouraged those interested to visit the Great Rivers Greenway website for more information, including maps of St. Charles County Greenways that are open for exploring.
www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • December 15, 2021
Around Town
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Around Town
December 15, 2021 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
Dedication takes place for the Oak Grove Cemetery Veterans Memorial On Nov. 6, a veterans memorial was dedicated at the Oak Grove Cemetery located in St. Charles. Colorgaurdsmen from the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) Fernando de Leyba Chapter (FDL) and Spirit of St. Louis Chapter (SSL) presented the Colors. Members of the Saint Charles Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Chapter unveiled the memorial. Bernadette Hall of the DAR Chapter gave a welcome, American Legion Post 312 Chaplain Rich Middendorf provided the invocation, the Pledge of Allegiance was lead by DAR Chapter Regent Gail Rea, the National
Anthem was lead by Rev. Scott Mays of the Calvery Temple Church, the featured speaker was Donald Newman, Jr., American Legion Post 312 – St. Charles (The National DAR Outstanding Veteran Volunteer Award Recipient 2021), the monument was unvailed by DAR Chapter Members Cindy Finnegan and Bernadette Hall, the laying of the wreath was conducted by DAR Chapter Member Bernadette Hall, the closing prayer was provided by Ken Futch, Chaplain of American Legion Post 313 – St. Peters, a 21 gun salute was provided by members of American Legion Post 313 – St. Peters, “Taps” was played by Bugler Michael Flandermeyer and Colors were retrived by the SAR Color Guard. Over 100 people attended the dedication. Over 600 Veterans have been laid to rest in Oak Grove Cemetery. There are veterans from all wars buried in Oak Grove Cemetery starting with Warren Cottle, Sr. from the American Revolution up to present day in Afghanistan. The Memorial Stone was provided by several organizations and individuals: the Mercer & Fahey families; American Legion Post 312 of St. Charles; American Legion Riders 312; Kohl-Jeck VFW Post 2866 of St. Charles; the Fernando de Leyba SAR Chapter; the Saint Charles DAR Chapter; Gary Chronister; Wil-
Photo courtesy Dennis J. Hahn Fernando de Leyba SAR Chapter President Jim Jackson (left) stands with Saint Charles Chapter DAR Regent Gail Rea.
liam and JoAnn Gains; Michael and Christy Galba; Jim Griesenauer, Donald and Darleen Newman, and Gail Rea. Special thanks was noted to Mark Hollender, Sexton of Oak Graove Cemetery, for his invaluable support and assistance during the project.
St. Charles County Family Arena offers fundraising opportunities for nonprofits NEW CUSTOMER SPECIAL!
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Nonprofit organizations looking to raise money in a safe and exciting environment are invited to check out the Family Arena’s concessions income program. Groups can make up to $1,000 during each three-hour event. “The Family Arena is dedicated to excellence in every area of guest service including our food and beverage services,” says Sandy Femmer, General Manager. “We are looking for non-profit groups to help us maintain this level of excellence while raising money for their organization.”
Femmer says the process is easy. Once the organization registers and has been selected, they designate two coordinators who will be responsible for all communications between their group and the Family Arena. The coordinators will be notified of an opportunity a minimum of two weeks prior to an event and provided with training when necessary. Groups should plan to have between 6 and 10 workers, depending on the event. Details of the event and duties will be discussed with the group coordinators.
“Groups find this is a fun, team-building experience that helps them raise money for their organizations,” Femmer says. “The St. Charles County Family Arena is pleased to offer this opportunity to them to staff our concession areas. It really is a win-win for both of us. We find the groups are engaged in making certain our guests have a great experience.” For more information, call the Family Arena Concessions Manager at 636-896-4291.
St. Charles County Police Department to have on-site assessment for CALEA reaccreditation The St. Charles County Police Department is scheduled for an on-site assessment as part of a reaccreditation process to verify that it continues to meet professional standards for advanced law enforcement through the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA). The department has been accredited by CALEA since 2018. Anyone wishing to submit written comments about the St. Charles County Police Department’s ability
to comply with the standards for accreditation may send them to the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement, Inc. (CALEA), 13575 Heathcote Boulevard, Suite 320, Gainesville, VA 22030-2215, or via email at calea@calea.org. When emailing, please use “St. Charles County (MO) Police Department” as the subject line. CALEA was created in 1979 by the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives, the National Sheriff ’s
Association, and the Police Executive Research Forum. Its purpose is to establish and administer an accreditation process through which law enforcement agencies can voluntarily demonstrate their ability to meet professional, recognized criteria for excellence in management and service delivery. The program requires agencies to comply with state-of-the-art standards in four basic areas: policy and procedures, administration, operations, and support services.
www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • December 15, 2021
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Around Town
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School
December 15, 2021 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
WSD receives Construction Keystone Award for North Point High School The Wentzville School District was named a finalist for the 24th Annual Construction Keystone Award. The WSD was selected in the “$50 Million or More” category for the work done building North Point High School. The Keystone Awards delegate winners in categories based on general contracting, construction management, prime contractors, building construction, and project costs. A panel of five expert judges determines finalists from submissions that span ten focused categories. In the Mid-America Class, Wright Construction Services, Inc., was honored among three other ‘$50 Million or More’ Building Constructions. Wright Construction presented the Keystone Finalist award, given
Photo courtesy Wentzville School District
by Associated General Contractors (AGC), to Dr. Cain and the Board of Education at the Nov. 19 board meeting. “This project is one we are very proud of,” said Bobby Christopher, project director of Wright Construction. “We finished this job early, and with what we faced with two of the rainiest years on
record and getting hit by COVID, it was a monumental task for us to overcome.” According to AGC, innovative, resourceful, and result-oriented are just a few ways to describe the contractors executing the construction projects selected as finalists.
Tips to ace college entry exams Because most colleges and universities require applicants to submit ACT or SAT results as part of admissions consideration, prepping for the test itself can be a critical component of that process. While it can oftentimes be hard to deal with the anxiety that comes with a rigorous test meant to show your mastery of certain subjects and concepts, such as reading and mathematics, consider these test prep tips to help boost your score while simultaneously lowering stress. Register Early To allow yourself as much flexibility as possible, taking college entrance exams during your junior year of high school is encouraged. If you don’t get an ideal score, you can refine your approach and retake the exam with a better idea of what to expect. Take a Practice Test Any test prep plan should start with a practice SAT or ACT exam. Taking practice tests under realistic conditions can help you gain a better understanding of the content of the test, improve your time management and help combat test anxiety. You can use your practice test as a baseline to set goals and focus the rest of your prep on areas you would like to improve before the real thing.
Photo courtesy of Getty Images
Sign Up for a Prep Course If you find studying on your own difficult or not as successful as you’d hoped, a prep course can put you through the paces and hold you accountable. Complete with homework and in-class practice, prep classes can range from small groups to larger classes taught by test experts. Some school districts even offer after-school programs dedicated to ACT or SAT prep. Gather Supplies To help reduce test day stress, gather everything you’ll need the night before. Check the list of banned items – cellphones aren’t permitted – to make sure you don’t accidentally bring something you’re not allowed to have. Ensure your bag is packed with your admission ticket, valid photo identification, several sharpened pencils
with erasers, an approved calculator (with fresh batteries) and a watch, if allowed. Get a Good Night’s Sleep and Eat Breakfast While it can be tempting to stay up late the night before the test to cram, you’re likely to perform better with a full night’s sleep. Sleep is important for retention, and eating a balanced breakfast before heading out the door can aid in your ability to focus. To make your morning easier, prep breakfast before bed to keep an early morning from starting even earlier. Remember, the college admissions process involves more than just test scores. Visit eLivingtoday. com for more education tips and information.
www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • December 15, 2021
School
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What’s Happening
December 15, 2021 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com Mondays: Anonymous
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. 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
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 off Pounds Sensibly
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
O
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: NAMI St. Louis Con nection Recovery Support Group
If you have mental health concerns and need support, please come on Mondays at 6:30 p.m. at Friedens United Church of Christ at 1703 Old Highway 94 South in St. Charles.
Spotlight on O’Fallon Plaza:
ur customers call it “The Gathering Place.” We like to call it where Magnolia Market meets American Pickers. Lisa and Tim have been junkin’ and selling for years and love everything about it. They have had many businesses through the decades, but have always loved collecting, selling and creating. Together they started this great vintage and DIY store in the older part of O’Fallon, MO. When it was time to grow to a bigger store, good friends Valerie and Scott became part of the business.. We invite you to reminisce in our store filled with unique vintage and handmade items, furniture, architectural wood, paint and much more. Attend one of our many classes or open painting times. It is also a great place for a bridal party, corporate team building, or a private DIY party with friends. You can also Shop Online for your favorite
Alcoholics
If you want to drink, that’s your business. If you want to stop, we can help. Call Alcoholics Anonymous at 636-9700013.
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 COVID pandemic, meetings are held via conference call, starting at 6:45 pm. For more information, contact Beverly Kaskadden at 636-561-6947.
Elderberry Place
handmade signs, vintage goods and Dixie Belle paint. We also have some of the best baked goods, soups, dips, honey and other great local products in our Farmer’s Market. We welcome you to visit us at:
207 O’Fallon Plaza, O’Fallon, MO 636-385-6700 www.elderberryplace.com
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.
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 jack-ross@ att.net.
Tuesdays: Cribbage
Looking for an evening out? Come and play cribbage Tuesdays at 6 p.m. at Rookies at 15358 Veterans Memorial Pkwy in Wentzville. Win prizes and awards with semiannual tournaments. ACC sanctioned. For more information contact Dee at 636-233-8032.
Tuesdays: Diabetes support group A diabetes support group meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month except November and December from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. at 400 Medical Plaza, Suite 102 in Lake St. Louis. A new speaker each month. Questions? Call Amanda Meyer at 636-625-5447.
Tuesdays: Kiwanis Club of St. Charles
12:05 p.m. at Ginghams Homestyle Restaurant, 1566 Country Clcub Plaza Drive, in St. Charles. Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time. The group is looking for new members who want to better our community and help its youth. If you are interested in making a positive impact in St. Charles for generations to come, please come for lunch. For more information call 636-206-2483. You can also visit http://stcharleskiwanis.com.
Tuesdays: Quilting Guild at the O’Fallon Family YMCA 1-4 p.m. Free. Quilt for local charities. No sewing experience required.
Tuesdays: Meeting
Toastmasters
7 p.m. at the Midwest Bank Centre Board Room at 2299 Technology Blvd., O’Fallon, MO 63368. Info: 636-3792505.
Tuesdays: St. Louis Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association Male Caregiver Experience The group meets on third Tuesday of every month from
10-11:30 a.m. at the Alzheimer’s Chapter Office at 9370 Olive Blvd. For more information about Alzheimer’s disease, support, or the Male Caregiver Experience, please call the Alzheimer’s Association’s 24/7 Helpline at 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: Dardenne Presbyterian Church Basketball
8-9:30 p.m., in the Christian Life Center, 7400 South Outer 364 in Dardenne Prairie. Open to high school and adult men.
Tuesdays: Central Missouri Railroad Association meeting
This unique organization is for railroad modelers, railfans, photographers and railroad retirees with layouts in O, HO, N hoping to add G scales. Meetings are on second Tues-
www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • December 15, 2021 days of the month from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Warrenton Masonic Lodge. For more info call 636-279-5522 or 636-4560776 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. 636-928-1928.
Tuesdays and Thursdays: Get Fit Exercise Classes 9-10 a.m. at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church Hall, New Melle. 314-369-6521.
Wednesdays: TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) Club
TOPS 502 Wright City meets every Wednesday morning at First Baptist Church at 104 Hedeman Ave. in Wright City. Weigh-in 7 - 8:30 a.m. Meeting starts at 9 a.m. For more information call 314-504-5202
Wednesdays: Food pantry
Food pantry open Wednesdays to the public from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Cornerstone UMC at 1151 Tom Ginnever Ave. in O’Fallon. Bread, canned goods other necessities.
Wednesdays: St. Charles Area Wood Carvers
Meetings are held from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. at the Hollenbeck Middle School at 4555 Central School Road in St. Charles. Visitors are always welcome. For more information visit http://www.stcharlesareawoodcarvers.com/ or contact
Charles Sapp at cwsapp@charter.net.
Wednesdays: Quilt guild
Every Fourth Wednesday from January to October, the Loose Threads Quilt Guild meets at 6:45 p.m. at the Cultural Arts Centre at the St. Peters City Hall on Mexico Road in St. Peters.
Wednesdays: Marine Corps League meeting
On the first Wednesday of each month the St. Charles County Marine Corps League meets at Pezold Banquet Center, 5701 Hwy N, in Cottleville at 7:00 p.m. All Marines and FMF Corpsmen are welcome. For more information visit www.stcharlesmarine.org.
Wednesdays: fishing club
Women’s
Gateway Bass ‘n Gals all women’s bass club has monthly meetings the first Wednesday of every month at JJ’s Restaurant at 1215 S. Duchesne Dr. in St. Charles at 7 p.m. Women of any fishing level please come and check out our women-only fishing club.
Wednesdays: Crossroads Cribbage Club Meets at 1380 Boone St., at 12 p.m. in Troy. 636-528-8379.
Wednesdays: Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS)
Take Off Pounds Sensibly meets every Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. in the United Methodist Church at 725 N. Wall St. in Wentzville. TOPS is a national non-profit weight-loss organization that supports its members in attaining their goal weight. There is no cost for the first meeting. All are welcome.
Wednesdays: Men’s Golf League
Wednesdays, April - October. 5 p.m., tee off at 5:30 p.m. at Heritage of Hawk Ridge. For more information, contact the Lake St. Louis Community Association at 636-625-8276.
Wednesdays: Charity Bingo
6:45pm, Doors open at 5 p.m. VFW Post 5077 sponsors, at VFW Hall, 8500 Veterans Mem. Pkwy., O’Fallon. 636-272-1945 or www.vfwpost5077.org.
Wednesdays: Yoga at The St. Charles County Family YMCA 6-6:55pm Any level. Info: 636928-1928.
Wednesdays: Healing
Hope &
5-6pm, Dardenne Presbyteri-
an Rock Church, 7400 South Outer 364 in Dardenne Prairie on the first Wednesday of the month. Unique service of music, worship, and prayer for those in need of hope and healing.
SUDOKU answers from page F-1
What’s Happening CROSSWORD answers from page F-4
Wednesdays: St. Charles Area Wood Carvers
7 p.m. – 9 p.m. Meetings are held at the Hollenbeck Middle School at 4555 Central School Road, St. Charles, Missouri on the first and third Wednesday of the month. Visitors are always welcome! For more information check the club web site: www.stcharlesareawoodcarvers.com/ or contact Charles Sapp.
Wednesdays: Take Pounds Sensibly
Off
Take Off Pounds Sensibly meets every Wednesday at 10 a.m. in the parish hall of Chapel of the Cross Lutheran Church at 907 Jungermann Rd. in St. Peters. TOPS is a national non-profit weight-loss organization that supports its members in attaining their goal weight. There is no cost for the first meeting. All are welcome. Weigh-ins begin at 9 a.m. Contact Judy Bauer at 636-541-2263 for further information.
Thursdays: St. Charles Rotary Club Meeting
St. Charles Rotary Club meets at noon at The Moose Lodge at 2705 Veterans Memorial Pkwy. In St Charles. Members and guests are welcome for lunch, leadership development and to gain a better insight into our community. www.stcharlesrotary.org.
Thursdays: American Legion meeting
On the first Thursday of each month, American Legion Post 323 meets at 7:30 p.m. at the American Legion Hall at 504 Luetkenhaus Blvd. in Wentzville. For more information call 636-327-6060.
Thursdays: Lions Club meeting
Wentzville Outreach Lions Club meets the second Thursday of the month at Schnucks at 1960 Wentzville Pkwy in Wentzville at 6 p.m. Contact Jimmy Butler at 314-780-5629 or Lisa Alexander at 314-2581069 for more information.
Thursdays: TOPS meeting
TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) Club 661 Wentzville holds meetings every Thursday in room 21 at The United Methodist Church of Wentzville, 725 Wall Street. Weigh ins at 9:30, meetings begin at 10 a.m. For more information call 314-650-1014.
www.midlandsb.com
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Sports
December 15, 2021 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com
Sports you see with Gary B . . .
Ambush win their first game The St. Louis Ambush play professional indoor soccer in the MASL with their home games at the Family Arena in St. Charles. After winning their first game of the season defeating the Dallas Sidekicks 8-4, the team returns home to host the Milwaukee Wave Dec. 19 at 4:05 p.m. *Keep the winning streak going Home games to be broadcast on local radio station for the Ambush The St. Louis team announced a partnership with The Big 550 KTRS that will bring fans radio broadcasts of the team’s remaining 11 home games of the 2021-
22 season. Broadcasts will begin with the next Ambush home game on Dec. 19, when the Milwaukee Wave come to town. The Ambush broadcast team of Joey Zanaboni and Matt Rocchio will bring fans all the action on KTRS 550 AM with live streaming available at ktrs.com and via the SoundCloud app. Ambush co-owner and CEO Shelly Clark said, “This partnership is another way we can bring coverage of Ambush games to our fans and gain more exposure for the exciting sport of professional indoor soccer. We’re thrilled to partner with KTRS.” Mark Dorsey, President and General Manager of KTRS said, “The Big 550 KTRS is proud to be celebrating 25 years of live and local programming and we are extremely excited to partner with the St. Louis Ambush this season and broadcast home games on 550 KTRS.
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This continues our commitment to live and local programming, supporting soccer in St. Louis and our local teams. The St. Louis Ambush have a rich history and we are thrilled to be partnered with them for the 2021-22 season.” Ambush co-owner and General Manager Jeff Locker said, “For a quarter of a century, KTRS has been a mainstay on the St. Louis radio dial and we couldn’t be happier to partner with them to deliver St. Louis Ambush home games to our fans as we continue our efforts to broaden our fan base.” *Hear the games LIVE Lindenwood University has the top ranking in their association The Lindenwood Lions remained No. 1 in the country in the latest American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA) Men’s Division I Ranking. It was the third ranking in a row that Lindenwood claimed the top spot. Lindenwood finished the semester with an overall record of 11-3-0, the only three losses coming against NCAA foes. The Lions sit at 6-0-0 in the CSCHL with eight conference games remaining on the season.
Highlights include: • Andy Willis leads the Lindenwood offense with 12 goals and 28 points total for a 2.15 points per game average in ACHA play. • Ryan Finnegan leads the team with 18 assists and has 25 points overall. • Kyle Jeffers has 13 assists and 17 points overall. • Caige Sterzer also has 17 points with 11 assists. • Aiden Yakimchuk also has 11 assists. • Freshman Trent Burnham has accumulated the most minutes between the pipes at 416, compiling a .906 save percentage and 2.31 goals against average. • Junior Stephen Friedland has played 244 minutes, posting a .890 save percentage and 3.20 goals against average as goalie. • Sophomore Ethan Paulin-Hatch has only played 120 minutes, but has a solid 1.00 goals against average and .846 save percentage also between the pipes. *Great start
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 15, 2021
Recipe: ’Add grapes to your holiday gatherings
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– SUDOKU –
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Peanut Butter Grape Bites Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 5 minutes | Yield: 12 pieces
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dd a special touch this holiday season with simple yet stunning small plates that add beauty and flavor to gatherings with friends and family. Available into January, California grapes offer a way to make the season special as an ingredient in your favorite recipes or as decoration for a festive centerpiece. Pops of red, green and black provide a seasonal touch and they’re perfect as an easy, fresh, healthy snack. Plus, you can dip grapes in nut butter and finish with coatings of coconut, dark chocolate and almonds to make these Peanut Butter Grape Bites for a holiday treat that’s simply divine – without spending hours in the kitchen. Ingredients: 12 California grapes, chilled 1/3 cup natural peanut or almond butter 1/4 cup shredded coconut 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate 1/4 cup chopped almonds
Directions: Place sheet of wax paper on baking sheet. Dip each grape in nut butter to coat half then dip in either coconut, dark chocolate or chopped almonds. Transfer to sheet then chill until ready to serve. Nutritional analysis per serving: 70 calories; 2 g protein; 4 g carbohydrates; 5 g fat (64% calories from fat); 1.5 g saturated fat (19% calories from saturated fat); 0 mg cholesterol; 25 mg sodium; 1 g fiber.
Visit grapesfromcalifornia.com to find more holiday recipe inspiration.
SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 9
Will ‘Daredevil’ finally make his way to the Marvel Cinematic Universe?
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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.
hile growing up in St. Louis, the public library was an almost daily destination for a bookworm like me. Though I loved young adult books written by the late Beverly Cleary and Carolyn Haywood, comic books have always been my favorite reading material. Because libraries typically didn’t carry them, my friends and I would head to grocery stores and confectionaries to buy Marvel and DC comics. While the cover price back then was 15 cents, today’s superhero adventures will set a reader back at least $3 or $4. Though the “Fantastic Four” was my favorite superhero team, the character I admired most was Daredevil, a blind vigilante. In 1964, the late great Stan Lee and artist Bill Everett introduced readers to Matt Murdock, a brilliant attorney who fought crime in the Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood of New York. As a teenager, Matt saved a man from being hit by a car but, in the process, Matt was exposed to radiation that blinded him. Although sightless, his other senses were enhanced and he developed a form of echolocation similar to what bats use for navigation.
of crime. During interviews for the film, Duncan said that Affleck looked like a “pixie” in his red costume. For three years beginning in 2015, Charlie Cox played the sightless superhero on a Marvel Television series for Netflix. Recently, Marvel’s Kevin Feige said Daredevil would appear in future projects and that Cox would reprise his role in those projects. That announcement opened up a world of possibilities, especially when it came to “Daredevil” photo courtesy Netflix Spider-Man. A team-up with Tom Holland’s Spider-Man would be amazing to watch on screen. Matt could be Superheroes can fly, smash buildings or an incredible mentor for Peter as well. turn invisible, but, in my humble opinion, Though Feige may be a bit elusive about Matt Murdoch has been Marvel’s coolest his announcements, any news about Darecharacter ever. Matt trained himself to be- devil is good news. The Marvel Cinematic come physically strong and use his abili- Universe is heading into its next phase and ties to fight crime on the streets and in the Matt Murdoch deserves his place alongside courtroom. In 2003’s “Daredevil” movie, the other heroes. In 2008, Feige and his Ben Affleck played both Murdoch and his team started a MCU storyline in the original crimefighting alter ego. An amazing Jennifer “Iron Man” movie that wasn’t complete until Garner was Elektra Natchios, a skilled mar- 11 years later. Matt Murdoch and Daredevil tial artist and love interest for Matt. The late definitely deserve a place in the next phase of Michael Clarke Duncan stole the show, how- superheroes. ever, as Wilson Fisk, the notorious Kingpin
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December 15, 2021 • Community News • www.mycnews.com
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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, have mercy on us. St. Jude, Worker of Miracles, Pray for us. St. Jude, Helper of the Hopeless, Pray for us.
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The City of St. John currently has an opening for a full time Court Clerk. Regular hours would be 8am-5pm, Monday thru Friday. Court days will require additional hours based on the length of the court for that particular day. Main duties include working with the: public, police department, attorneys and prosecuting attorney’s office. Job duties include, but are not limited to, answering phones, processing communications and correspondence for the Judge, court notices to defendants, organization, ling of les and attendance at all courts. The successful candidate sel must be a self-motivated person. Prior experience in the municipal court eld is highly desired. Certiication with IMDSPlus and experience with the Show Me Courts softwares are a deenite plus. Must be proocient in Windows 10 Pro, MS Word and Adobe PDF, as well as general computer skills. An attractive beneet package includes fully paid health insurance for employee along with a percentage for dependents’ cost; thirteen paid holidays throughout the year, vacation and sick leave beneets, term life insurance, retirement plan in LAGERS, service and longevity awards, a tuition reimbursement policy including college incentive pay. Starting salary is $31,200. Apply at the City of St. John, 8944 St. Charles Rock Road, Suite 100, St. John, MO 63114 or send resumes to Connie Poteet, Asst. City Manager (cpoteet@cityofstjohn.org). Applications will be acc accepted until the position is lled.
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Yeggs
John Hanna
CROSSWORD: YEAR IN REVIEW
‘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 It’s not hard to be unlikable lately. Anything can get you blackballed or scrubbed nowadays. So it is with my Christmas card list. Back in the day when postage was affordable my list ran for pages. The long-lost cousins who I wasn’t even sure we were related to would get one as well as high school friends I barely saw anymore or neighbors two streets over. Heck, even the crabby guy around the block who never mowed his lawn would get some Christmas cheer. Well times they be a changin’. The price of everything is going up: gas, heating fuel, new and used cars and food. Of course, the cost of postage went up again. Well, something’s got to give and that right there is going to put the Grinch in my giving. Stamps rose from 55 to 58 cents. So basically, anyone who was worth 55 cents last year and isn’t worth three pennies more this year doesn’t make the cut. I studied my list. First, remove any person who didn’t send me a card last year. Oh yes, I keep track and don’t think I don’t pay close attention. I have a spread sheet. Off they go! That put thirty cents in the bank. Second, anyone who has made me mad. For starters, Aunt Fiona! She criticized my mashed potatoes at Thanksgiving. She said they tasted like the boxed kind. Rude! They totally came
from a packet. She’s so off the list. But then again…I just might be in her will. I’ll give her one more shot. But she owes me three cents and an apology! Next, neighbors. The guy with the shaggy grass has been terminated…much like his lawn. How about the lady across the street that keeps giving us dried up fruitcake? Hmm, maybe if I cancel her card she’ll cancel the cake. Done! Let’s see now. It looks like I’ve saved a whole dollar. Great! I can go to the dollar store and buy…wait! I just remembered that the dollar store has gone up too. They’ve raised prices to $1.25. Grrr, back to the list.
You have been unliked
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. Coalition of countries 5. King trump-er, sometimes 8. Cuckoo bird 11. ____ weevil 12. Smelting waste 13. Kitchen-wear 15. Coke or Pepsi 16. Check-in via text, email, etc. 17. Settler transport 18. *2021 Super Bowl winner, two words 20. Before long, to Shakespeare 21. Jeopardy 22. Auction action 23. Puts down 26. Coroner’s performance 30. Band booking 31. Snicket of “A Series of Unfortunate Events” 34. Stravinsky’s “The ____ of Spring” 35. Mine passages 37. *Build Back Better ____ 38. Eucharist plate 39. Table hill 40. Good review 42. “Tit for ____” 43. Buck feature, pl. 45. *First female VP 47. Evergreen creeper 48. It goes with gin,
according to Snoop Dogg 50. Mongolian desert 52. *COVID-19, e.g. 55. Poison ivy or Poison oak 56. International Civil Aviation Org. 57. Distinctive smell 59. House coat 60. Asian cuisine food thickener 61. Pelvic parts 62. Gallery display 63. Self-proclaimed greatest boxer 64. Count on
23. Old World lizard 24. *January 20th honoree 25. Anti-elderly one 26. Those not in favor 27. Pita, alt. sp. 28. Take without asking 29. Gossiper, Yiddish 32. *Perseverance landing spot 33. Edible tuber 36. *Kabul’s organization in power 38. *The Nobel ____ Prize was awarded to Ressa and Muratov 40. Snoop around 41. Snowmobile brand DOWN 44. Give the boot 1. “Monty Python” broadcaster 46. *”Stronger” by Cindy McCain, e.g. 2. Rioter’s take 48. Southwestern hut 3. Cantina pot 49. Sushi restaurant staple 4. Fasteners or holders 50. ____ gum, food 5. Cover story 6. *Suez ____, too tight for additive 51. Leave out Ever Given 52. Home to the Leaning 7. Like custard Tower 8. Mythological ship 53. Not in use 9. “High” time 54. One in mattress 10. Wayside stop 55. Spot for a facial 12. Thinly spread 58. *Actor Liotta, star in “The 13. Look forward to Many Saints of Newark” 14. *____ Papers, leaked offshore account information 19. Banana refuse, pl. 22. Exchange for money SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 9