CNSTC: December 23, 2020

December 23, 2020

Giving comes full circle

Around Town Options for those struggling to make mortgage payments. Pg. 3 Renovated Department of Public Health Facility to open to public Dec. 23.

Pg. 4 Missouri American Water to provide utility bill assistance. Pg. 4

School

WSD students celebrate Computer Science Week and Hour of Code . Pg. 6 Photo by Brett Auten Anthony Perry, of St. Peters, stands among the collection of donated toys for the St. Charles County Police Department’s Santa Cops program. Perry spent a large portion of his early life in the foster system in Southern Missouri and the nationally-known Shop with a Cop foundation left lasting memories during times of uncertainty. Through the St. Charles County foundation, Happiness for Harper, Perry is helping return the favor to children in need this Christmas season by donating to the SCCPD’s Santa Cops.

Features

Volunteer for the St. Charles County Police Department’s Santa Cops program once benefited from a similar program

By Brett Auten Christmas always was a remarkable time for Anthony Perry Born in Southern Missouri, Perry was split up from his eight siblings while in the foster care system beginning at the age of three. He bounced around to 15 different homes until he was nine.

Those are prime Santa Claus years.

That is where Shop with a Cop, the national police foundation, came in. The only Christmas gifts he received were from police officers through various holiday programs. Those times together made things feel a little normal during a time that definitely wasn’t.

“It was a big deal,” Perry said. “They always made it a point that everyone had something regardless. It would just lift the

atmosphere. It could be a pair of gloves and socks. It was something new.”

Perry and his brothers and sister eventually landed under all one roof in tiny Shelbyville. After high school, Perry made his way to St. Peters to chase a job opportunity.

He settled in here and even met his fiancé.

This year, Perry, 23, learned about Happiness for Harper and its partnership with the St. Charles County Police Department’s (SCCPD) Santa Cops program. For the past three years, the SCCPD has issued new toys to deserving children. Created in 2017, Happiness for Harper honors the life of Harper Pillman who died at 16 months of age from a rare condition. Over the past three years, founders Steve and Kelly Pillman have donated over 3,000 toys to the SCCPD. “We try to buy the best quality that we

can,” Kelly Pillman. “I choose what I would buy for my own. These kids deserve it.”

With Harper’s birthday in early December, the Pillmans decided to buy presents for others to honor that day. A quick groundswell resulted in around 500 toys the first year, donated to Sts. Joachim and Anns and the SCCPD. For the second year, all 800 toys went to Santa Cops.

“They were not receiving the amount of donations like the others,” Kelly Pillman said. “(SCCPD) is so involved in the community. They know the needs. It’s in real time. They were so excited about the idea and it was just the best fit.”

Pillman heard Perry’s background story when he began dating a family member, the eventual fiancé.

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‘GIVING’ from cover “It was during a Halloween toy drive and he just started talking about receiving gifts and the impact it made,” Perry said. “It was an emotional experience to hear it from him and you can see the impact that it still has on him.

“He said when things got bad he would look at the toys he got and say, I knew someone loved me enough to buy me this. And it got him through some tough times.”

Seeing Happiness for Harper in action kicked up a lot of old feelings for Perry and it became, “overwhelming to watch the organization and to realize that there was still such a need.”

Perry always wanted to be the person who delivered the toys, who brought that little piece of joy. So this year, he did the next best thing, and joined in and helped collect and deliver some of the 1,000 toys going out to children affected by the pandemic and other crisis.

“Although Anthony didn’t benefit from us specifically, he has come full circle and vows

to make the holidays better for other foster children,” SCCPD Chief Kurt Frisz said.

The families who receive the toys from Happiness for Harper and Santa Cops are a combination of recommendations from faith-based groups and officers becoming aware of an ideal situation within the community.

But these donations are not just a holiday deluge. A youngster going through a tough time, no matter what month of the year, could use a little pick me up.

“We really benefit from this all year-long,” Frisz said. “A new toy can always brighten someone’s day.”

Perry wants to reassure all who have helped out; no matter how big or small, no matter what organization, that the act of giving and caring is not unappreciated.

“I really want to encourage those who are wanting to donate or put some sort of drive together, that it does make an impact,” he said. “Regardless the gift. It’s not about how Photo by Brett Auten expensive, it’s about receiving something Anthony Perry, of St. Peters, stands among the collection that will brighten a child’s life or at least of donated toys for the St. Charles County Police bring a little light to it.”

Department’s Santa Cops program.

Local Author Profile:: Veronica C. Sharpe Veronica C. Sharpe has taken her years of experience working in corporate America and raising two daughters to write a book for children ages threethrough-eight that explores themes of unity, diversity, love and friendship.

With colorful illustrations and a meaningful storyline, “The Misplaced Bears” takes a journey with Bronx, a lost little polar bear, who has been separated from his mommy. On his quest, he crosses paths with Teigen, an American black bear, Ken-Ken, a grizzly bear, and Charlie, a panda bear. As the bears become friends, they discover that they are different, yes...but the same.

The reader finds out that Bronx’s quest to find his mommy leads him to find the biggest treasure he ever imagined.

Sharpe said that as a black woman, it was important that her first children’s book helped little ones understand that despite all of our differences, we are really the same.

Sharpe, 65, is a St. Louis native, retiree from AT&T and proud graduate of Tennessee State University. She lives in O’Fallon with her husband, Ernest, and has two daughters, Shaunita and Chanel, a son-in-law Chris, and three grandchildren, Kennedy, Teigen and Bronx.

“The Misplaced Bears” can be purchased online at Amazon.com , Walmart. com , BarnesandNoble. com or SharpePictures. com ; or directly from the author by emailing vsharpe05@gmail.com

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www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • December 23, 2020

Around Town

Struggling to make mortgage payments due to COVID-19? You have options Recent data from Fannie Mae indicate that, of those homeowners most clearly affected by the pandemic and its economic impact, more than 96 percent took advantage of a forbearance plan to help manage their financial obligations.

In St. Charles County, the percentage of homeowners with a mortgage backed by Fannie Mae who have entered into a forbearance plan is below the Fannie Mae national average of 96 percent.

Under the federal CARES Act, homeowners experiencing hardship due to the pandemic are able to take a mortgage forbearance for up to one year, effectively suspending mortgage payments during that time. Homeowners with a Fannie-backed mortgage can still request a COVID-19 forbearance after Dec.31, when some protections under the CARES Act are set to expire.

If you’re having trouble paying your monthly mortgage bill due to the economic upheaval caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, you’re not alone. Millions of Americans have lost their jobs, been furloughed, had their hours reduced or have had to take time off work due to illness

or to care for a family member – with or without pay.

The good news? You have options and there is help available.

“As we confront these unsettling times, it is important to help keep people in their homes,” said Malloy Evans, Senior Vice President at Fannie Mae, the government sponsored enterprise that finances about one in every four homes in the United States. “People need clarity during what can be a confusing, stressful process, with information and tools to successfully navigate housing payment options.”

A forbearance plan can offer temporary relief. Forbearance does not erase the amount you owe, but it allows for reduction or suspension of your mortgage payments for up to 12 months.

To request forbearance or other mortgage assistance, contact your mortgage servicer – the company that manages your monthly mortgage payments. Visit KnowYourOptions.com to find resources and information about the options available if you are facing financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

www.seniorshelpingseniors.com/stlouiscentral

Thrivent and Habitat for Humanity of St. Charles County partner to help families stay in their homes Thrivent is awarding Habitat for Humanity of St. Charles County a contribution of $5,000 to help families in St. Charles County stay in their homes.

Thrivent’s donation will allow Habitat to provide mortgage relief to Habitat homeowners who need temporary assistance making their mortgage payments during the COVID-19 pandemic. With Thrivent’s support, Habitat for Humanity of St. Charles County will sustain affordable homeownership costs for more than seven families in St. Charles County.

Prior to the spread of the novel coronavirus, more than 18 million households across the U.S. were paying half or more of their income on a place to live. As the pandemic continues to cause job disruption and economic fallout, many households are enduring lay-offs, unemployment and pay cuts. This wage loss has amplified the financial burden on households to maintain essential payments and can result in families having to trade-off between bills, mortgage or medical care.

“Our Habitat for Humanity of St. Charles County homeowners go through a rigorous homeowner and affordable mortgage process to realize their dreams of having a healthy, safe home, but the current economic climate created unanticipated financial hardships,” said Michelle Woods, executive director, Habitat for Humanity of St. Charles County. “Through

Thrivent’s generous support, we are able to further assist our homeowner families as part of our ongoing mission to provide a ‘hand up’ opportunity that transforms lives, builds a strong foundation and forges lasting relationships within our communities.”

The Habitat for Humanity of St. Charles County affiliate is one of 100 local Habitat organizations across the nation partnering with Thrivent to help families stay in their homes during the COVID-19 pandemic. In total, Thrivent is donating $750,000 to Habitat for Humanity to assist with mortgage-related relief and prevent foreclosures across the U.S. “This year has been incredibly difficult for many people as financial hardship has added stress and anxiety to daily lives,” said Nikki Sorum, senior vice president of Thrivent Advisors at Thrivent. “This pandemic has underscored how important it is for people to have safe, affordable homes. Given all we have endured in 2020, we are especially honored to provide financial support to Habitat for Humanity to help people stay in their homes so they can continue to build toward financial stability.”

Habitat for Humanity and Thrivent began their partnership in 2005. Over the past 15 years, Thrivent and its clients have contributed more than $275 million to Habitat and have partnered with families to build safe, affordable homes across the U.S. and around the world.

636.978.7870 | www.krekeler.com 2938 Hwy K @ Hwy N, O’Fallon, MO

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4

Around Town

December 23, 2020 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

W W W. M YC N E W S . C O M

Renovated Department of Public Health Facility to open to public Dec. 23 Improvements to the St. Charles County Department of Public Health facility at 1650 Boone’s Lick Road in St. Charles are near completion, and the building will reopen to serve the public on Dec. 23. The department was relocated to a temporary facility in July to allow for the renovations: Improvements, which were funded by the Coronavirus, Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to provide a safer environment for the public and employees, include: • Increased clinic space.

• Enhanced disease prevention barriers to protect clients and staff.

• An on-site lab to accommodate testing procedures.

• Improved capacity to reduce the spread of infection.

Public services will close temporarily from Dec. 17-22 to facilitate the move into the facility but will reopen on Dec. 23. Appointments may be scheduled by calling:

• • • • • • • • •

Department of Public Health – 636-949-7400 Women, Infants and Children Program (WIC) – 636-949-7402 STD Testing and Treatment – 636-949-7484 Birth and Death Certificates (Vital Records) – 636-949-7558 U.S. Passport Application Assistance – 636-9497412 Immunizations – 636-949-1857 Food Permits and Inspections – 636-949-1800 Additional Consumer Service Provider Permits and Inspections – 636-949-1800 Private Water Supply Testing Assistance – 636949-1800

St. Charles County’s COVID-19 response program, including the COVID-19 Information Hotline, will not be affected during the move. For questions about the pandemic, visit sccmo.org/COVID or call the hotline at 636-949-1899. To schedule a test for the virus, visit sccmo.org/COVIDtest.

Missouri American Water to provide additional utility bill assistance Families falling behind on paying their water and sewer bills may now qualify for additional assistance through Missouri American Water’s H2O Help to Others Program.

The H2O Help to Others Program provides emergency assistance for customers who have experienced financial hardship.

Funds are made available through a partnership between Missouri American Water and the state’s community action agencies.

“We want to help our customers as COVID-19 continues to impact our state,” said Debbie Dewey, president of Missouri American Water. “While water is typically one of the lowest utility bills, we know it’s not the only one our customers manage. That’s why we’re providing additional funding to partnering community action agencies to help people get through these challenging times.”

Missouri American Water customers with incomes up to 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Level may apply for water and sewer bill assistance grants of up to $250 by contacting their local community action agency.

“We have seen a record number of people asking for help this year, and many individuals are still unable to return to work or are working reduced hours,” said Georgie Donahue, CCAP, Program Administration Director of Community Action Agency of St. Louis County, Inc. (CAASTLC). “Missouri American Water’s grant is a lifeline that will help residents have continued access to clean water and sewer service.”

The Community Action Agencies’ trained caseworkers determine the needs of families and individuals who must be Missouri American Water customers in order to receive assistance.

“I think it is great that Missouri American Water is releasing additional funding in the current situation and hopefully it will make a difference in assisting families that have been affected

by COVID-19,” said Mary Endicott, CCAP, Community Services Director of Missouri Valley Community Action Agency.

Missouri American Water reminds customers that an enhanced installment plan, which allows past-due balances to be paid over an extended period of time, is also available to both residential and non-residential customers. Details can be found on the company’s website at: https://amwater.com/moaw/customer-service-billing/payment-assistance-program.

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • December 23, 2020

Business

5

O’Fallon Hoots present proceeds from jersey auction to Cuivre River Electric Cooperative’s Community Trust Just over $700 was recently presented to Cuivre River Electric Cooperative’s (CREC) Community Trust by the O’Fallon Hoots, the prospect league baseball team based in O’Fallon, which is a part of CREC’s service area.

An online jersey auction, conducted during the Hoot’s summer season, was associated with a CREC-sponsored Hoots game.

Fans had the opportunity to bid online for specialty jerseys worn by the players. CREC’s Community Trust outreach program, Operation Round Up, was chosen to benefit from the proceeds.

General Manager/CEO Doug Tracy, who threw out the first

pitch at that game, said that partnering with the Hoots offered a great way to both engage with the community the co-op serves, and support Operation Round Up’s mission to give back.

“As an electric cooperative, we believe we have a responsibility to do more for the people we serve than just keeping the lights on,” he said. “‘Concern for community’ is one of seven cooperative principles by which we operate every day.”

"We are ecstatic to partner with Cuivre River Electric Cooperative and Operation Round Up to provide funds for those in need," said Hoots General Manager David Schmoll. "As we

Submitted photo (From left) Operation Round Up trustees John Deutch, Doug Steinmeyer, Joyce Hollaway, Kyle Shell, Redonda Heitman and Linda Whalen (not pictured, Lisa Dunham) stand with (holding the check) David Schmoll, Hoots General Manager.

continue to grow our community presence, we look forward to continuing to assist Operation Round Up for years to come."

Operation Round Up, es-

tablished in 1997, has awarded over $6 million in grants to help area families, individuals, and community organizations in need. The goal of Operation

Round Up is to assist in addressing unmet needs in the areas of health, youth, education, home weatherization, community, and emergency services.

Electro Savings Credit Union marks new construction with ground breaking

www.proacriveprintservices.com

Submitted photo

Staff from Electro Savings Credit Union joined Chairman of the Board Jim Mullineaux at the ground breaking ceremony of their first branch in St. Charles County. Electro Savings Credit Union will be located at 3235 Mid Rivers Mall Drive in St. Peters.

Joining Mullineaux in the celebration was the city of St. Peters Mayor Len Pagano, St. Peters Aldermen Melissa Reimer, Terri Violet, Rocky Reitmeyer and Greg Sartorius, Julie Powers and Ken Braunfeld with St. Peters Economic Development office. Also in attendance were am-

bassadors and staff with the Greater St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce.

Electro Savings Credit Union has been serving the St. Louis region for 80 years – with their first branch located in the basement of Union Electric. Now, with locations all over St. Louis city and county, they were excited to present their first St. Charles County location in the city of St. Peters.

For more information on Electro Savings Credit Union, visit their website at www.electrosavings.com.

6

School

December 23, 2020 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

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St. Charles Community College enters into historic partnership with Harris-Stowe State University St. Charles Community College and Harris-Stowe State University are partnering to create a joint admissions program for students in the region. This is the first such agreement between a community college and a Historic Black College and University in Missouri.

An official signing ceremony between the two higher education institutions took place on Dec. 10, on the St. Charles Community College campus.

“This historic partnership will allow students to leverage the resources and programs offered at both institutions as they prepare for their future,” said Barbara Kavalier, Ph.D., SCC president. “Students will be able to enroll in coursework at SCC and HSSU at the same time, first earning their associate degree and then a bachelor’s degree in the discipline of their choice.”

“We are creating an easier pathway for students to be successful. Our goal is to increase affordability, access and student success. We are reimagining the student transfer experience to make it seamless, collaborative and more efficient,” said Corey S. Bradford, Sr., Ph.D., presi-

dent of Harris-Stowe State University.

More than just a co-enrollment program, the new partnership will allow SCC and HSSU to jointly recruit students into a special program shared between the institutions. Students will have privileges at both institutions, allowing them to participate in campus activities and take advantage of college resources. Students will be able to take advantage of the St. Charles Community College tuition rate while taking part of the co-enrollment program.

Students will have broader access to scholarships, faculty and credit pathways. Additionally, SCC and HSSU will have the opportunity to engage in a faculty exchange program, as well as joint professional development opportunities.

“We look forward to bringing diverse ideas and perspectives to St. Charles Community College,” Kavalier said. “Celebrating diversity and preparing students to succeed in a global environment is one of our core values, and this partnership will strengthen that resolve in so many ways.”

Wentzville School District students celebrate Computer Science Week and Hour of Code Students across the Wentzville School District joined millions of other K-12 students learning computer code as part of Computer Science Education Week (Dec. 7-11). Hour of Code is a global campaign designed to get students interested in computer science – the skill that programs our modern world.

Hour of Code offers web-based lessons in computer coding that are aimed at every age group. Schools held Hour of Code sessions, and some classes took advantage of the popularity of the video games like “Minecraft” to teach coding by having elementary students code characters in these games to dance or perform other tasks.

Students used Chromebooks, iPads, and Spheros to complete programming activities and some learned to code their own video game.

“Boone Trail students have been participating in Hour of Code since its inception in December 2013,” shared Katie Strokotter, Project Lead the Way teacher. “Our current sixth graders were in preschool the year we began, and have completed Hour of Code each year of their elementary school career. Since then, we have added an additional coding unit to our computer curriculum that they will complete in fourth quarter.

Their problem-solving skills have increased significantly each year and I have seen their understanding of computer science rocket. I am excited about the abundance of well-skilled young programmers that we will be releasing into the world.”

Computer science develops students' computational and critical-thinking skills and shows them how to create, not simply use, new technologies.

Photo courtesy Wentzville School District Students across the Wentzville School District joined millions of other K-12 students learning computer code as part of Computer Science Education Week (Dec. 7-11).

"It is essential that students are exposed to the field of computer science in our K-12 system, as it is foundational in transforming the way a student thinks about the world," said Hadi Partovi, founder and CEO of Code.org, a Seattle-based national nonprofit that works to expand access to computer science and increase participation by women and minorities.

For more information, or to help your child log on, visit Code.org.

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • December 23, 2020

School

7

Two WSD educators selected as finalists for presidential teaching award Wentzville School District teachers Amy Bielke and Rebekah Messick have both been selected as finalists for the 2020 Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST).

The award is the highest recognition that a K-12 mathematics or science teacher can receive for outstanding teaching in the United States. Bielke teaches third grade mathematics at Wabash Elementary School and Messick teaches sixth grade science at Heritage Intermediate.

“What an incredible honor to be a finalist for the PAEMST. I have a passion for mathematics and truly believe that all students should learn to love math,” shared Bielke, one of only three educators in Missouri to be chosen as a state finalist in mathematics. “As educators, it is so important to create a mathematics classroom culture in which students use creative thinking, unique problem-solving methodologies, target conceptual understanding, and

promote intellectual flexibility. I am so grateful for the opportunity to work with and learn from some of the most dedicated and hard-working professionals.”

Bielke has worked for the WSD since 2004.

The awards are given to mathematics and science teachers from each of the 50 states and four U.S. jurisdictions. It recognizes those teachers who develop and implement a high-quality instructional program that enhances student learning. As state-level finalists, Bielke and Messick are both now candidates for the Presidential Award and the White House will announce those winners next year.

Those selected for this presidential honor will receive a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation and an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, DC, for an awards ceremony, educational events, and visits with members of Congress and the administration.

“I am honored to be a finalist for the Presidential Award and

I am grateful to work in a district with amazing colleagues that encourage me and help me grow,” said Messick, who has worked for the WSD for eight years. “Every year I try to be a better teacher than I was the year before, and the application process for this award gave me the opportunity to reflect on my practices more thoroughly than ever before. I am passionate about science education and I’m grateful to be recognized for something that I love.”

Messick is one of only two educators in Missouri to be chosen as a state finalist in science. Bielke and Messick represent the ninth and tenth WSD educators since 2012 to receive this prestigious recognition for excellence in teaching. Four WSD educators: Laura Parn (2012), Kathryn Schack (2014), Stacey Wade (2017) and Terri Politte (2018), were all named recipients of the Presidential Award during that time.

“Amy and Rebekah are both deserving teachers of this dis-

Wentzville School District principal named Exemplary New Principal Dr. Megan Sutton, Principal at Heritage Primary in the Wentzville School District, has been named Exemplary New Principal by the St. Louis Suburban Elementary Principals Association.

This is Sutton’s second year as a principal at Heritage. Previously, she served as an assistant principal in the WSD at Crossroads Elementary and taught kindergarten prior to that at Heritage for 10 years. Sutton was named Teacher of the Year at Heritage in 2015-2016. “(Dr. Sutton) is a consummate professional who does what is best for her students and staff every single day,” said Heritage Intermediate Principal Dr. Jodi Oliver in her nomination letter. “She is such a great model for all principals.

She is passionate about her job and has very high expectations, but she has a lot of fun along the way while asking everyone to work hard and also models hard work. Throughout this pandemic, Dr. Sutton has shown positivity, realism, and has shown she will stick through tough times with her staff. Not only is Dr. Sutton kind, knowledgeable, positive, and fun, she also just flat out loves her school and everyone knows it!”

The program honors outstanding elementary administrators who ensure that Missouri’s children acquire a sound foundation for lifelong learning and achievement. By promoting excellent leadership, quality education and professional growth, these awards celebrate principals

Photos courtesy Wentzville School District (Left) Wentzville School District teacher Amy Bielke has been selected as a finalist for the 2020 Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. (Right) Wentzville School District teacher Rebekah Messick has been selected as a finalist for the 2020 Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.

tinguished recognition,” said WSD Superintendent Dr. Curtis Cain. “They join a long line of outstanding and respected educational leaders in Missouri and the Wentzville School District, and we are extremely proud of their accomplishments on behalf of students.”

The PAEMST award was established by Congress in 1983, and the program authorizes the

President of the United States to bestow up to 108 awards each year. Awardees serve as models for their colleagues, inspiration to their communities, and leaders in the improvement of mathematics and science education.

The National Science Foundation administers PAEMST on behalf of The White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.

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4101 Mexico Road, St. Peters, MO | 44 Crossroads Plaza, O’Fallon, MO Photo courtesy Wentzville School District (From left) Dr. Jodi Oliver, Principal at Heritage Intermediate stands with Dr. Megan Sutton, Principal at Heritage Primary and Dr. Curtis Cain, Superintendent of the Wentzville School District.

and exemplify their outstanding achievements as a school principal. Dr. Sutton will be officially recognized at the Missouri Association of Elementary School Principals (MAESP) Leadership Conference in March.

The Missouri Association of Elementary School Principals (MAESP) is a statewide organization in Missouri that exists to serve the needs of elementary and middle school principals, assistant principals and those educators interested in becoming elementary or middle-level principals. MAESP is an affiliate of the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP).

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What’s Happening

December 23. 2020 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

Take Notice . . .

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

ONGOING EVENTS Mondays: Optimist Club meetings

The Wentzville/Lake St. Louis Optimist Club meets on the second and fourth Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Wentzville IHOP, 10 Layla Lane, Wentzville, MO.. For more information contact Ed Jurotich at 314560-1868.

Mondays: Take off Pounds Sensibly

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

Mondays: Take off Pounds Sensibly

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 (second Monday in September due to Labor Day) unless otherwise specified. No meetings are held in June, July, or December. Meetings are held in the Community Council Building (Second floor of the Spencer Branch Library) from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. For more information contact Beverly Kaskadden (Treasurer) at 636-561-6947.

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

Mondays: mous

Alcoholics

Anony-

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

Call Alcoholics Anonymous at 636970-0013.

Mondays: Seasoned eye carvers meeting

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

Mondays 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, 636-219-0553.

Mondays: Measurement Mondays:

10 a.m. - 12 noon at the ST. Charles Health Deparment in the Upper Level Conference room. Measurement Mondays is a family-friendly breastfeeding support group. We are open to all moms and moms-to-be who are breastfeeding or interested in breastfeeding. The group is supported by the St Charles County WIC program so there will be information about the program available at each meeting.

Each meeting will be a little different than the last. There will be baby weigh-ins, introductions, games, interactive education, group conversation, and even snacks.

Mondays and Wednesdays: Tai Chi for arthritis class Every Monday and Wednesday a Tai

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

Meets every Tuesday, 12:30 – 3:30 p.m. at The Falls Golf Course Clubhouse. Relaxed, friendly play and is open to all. Call 314-779-6892 for more information.

Tuesdays: Toastmasters Meeting

Tuesdays: Cancer support group

Tuesdays: Seniors group

Tuesdays: St. Louis Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association Male Caregiver Experience

Tuesdays: Cribbage Club

Tuesdays: Optimist Club meeting

9:30-10:30 a.m., American Legion Hall, 504 Luetkenhaus Blvd., Wentzville. 314-369-6521.

Tuesdays: Dardenne Presbyterian Church Basketball

1-4 p.m. Free. Quilt for local charities.

No sewing experience required.

Candlelighters Women in Recovery meets every Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Dardenne Prairie Presbyterian Church (enter at Adam Lamb preSchool, turn left) at 7400 South Outer 364 at the corner with Bryan Road.

Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays: Fitness First Exercise Class

Mondays: Parent support group

za 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.

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 636456-0776 or visit our Facebook page.

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

Mondays: St. Peters Rotary Club

Mondays: NAMI St. Louis Con nection Recovery Support Group

Tuesdays: Women’s AA weekly meeting

Please join us on the third Tuesday of each month from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. for a gathering for senior adults. There will be lunch (no charge), cards and bingo (no charge), community program referrals, occasional health and wellness presentations and clergy available upon request. The event takes place at Church of the Transfiguration at1860 Lake St. Louis Blvd. in Lake Saint Louis. For more information call 636-561-8951.

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.

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.

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.

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 636-2338032.

Tuesdays: Cottleville Weldon Spring Kiwanis Club

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

Tuesdays: group

Diabetes

support

A diabetes support group meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month except November and December from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. at 400 Medical Plaza, Suite 102 in Lake St. Louis. A new speaker each month. Questions? Call Amanda Meyer at 636-625-5447.

Tuesdays: Kiwanis Club of St. Charles

12:05 p.m. at Ginghams Homestyle Restaurant, 1566 Country Clcub Pla-

Tuesdays: Quilting Guild at the O’Fallon Family YMCA

7 p.m. at the Midwest Bank Centre Board Room at 2299 Technology Blvd., O’Fallon, MO 63368. Info: 636-379-2505.

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

Tuesdays: Social club for widows and widowers

On the first and third Tuesday of each month a social club for widows and widowers meets at 7 p.m. at St. John’s United Church of Christ at Fifth and Jackson Streets in St. Charles. On the first Tuesday there are refreshments and on the third Tuesday there is either a speaker or entertainment. The group also goes to breakfast, lunch and dinner monthly, and has a pot luck dinner each month.

Tuesdays: Monthly veterans coffee

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

Tuesdays: NAMI St. Louis Connection Recovery Support Group

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

Tuesdays: NAMI St. Louis Family Support Group

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.

Cancer Companions Support Group is a support group for any cancer patient in treatment or post treatment, their caregiver and their loved ones that meets on the second Tuesday of each month at Dardenne Presbyterian Church at 7400 South Outer 364 in Dardenne Prairie at 7 p.m. in the parlor. Registration is not required.

Tuesdays: Show-me Stitchers Embroiderer’s Guild of America Meets at 7 p.m. on the second Tuesday of the month at the Ladue Chapel.

Info: www.showmestitchers.com.

Tuesdays: O’Fallon Garden Club

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

Info: Barb at 636.978.5930. Club does not meet in August or November.

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

5pm, St. Charles American Legion Post 312, 2500 Raymond Drive in St. Charles on the last Tuesday of the month. $6 per person. For more information call Post 312 at 636-9477666.

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. 314369-6521.

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.

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • December 23, 2020 Wednesdays: Marine League meeting

Corp

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

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

Wednesdays: Women’s fishing club

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

Wednesdays: Crossroads Cribbage Club

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

Wednesdays: Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS)

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

Wednesdays: Men’s Golf League

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

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.

Every Thursday: Kiwanis Club of St. Peters

Thursdays: meeting

Every Thursday: Kiwanis Club of O’Fallon

American

Legion

On the first Thursday of each month, American Legion Post 323 meets at 7:30 p.m. at the American Legion Hall at 504 Luetkenhaus Blvd. in Wentzville. For more information call 636327-6060.

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 314-258-1069 for more information.

Thursdays: TOPS meeting

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

Thursdays: O’Fallon Rotary Club meetings

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

Thursdays: Optimist Club meetings

6:45pm, Doors open at 5 p.m. VFW Post 5077 sponsors, at VFW Hall, 8500 Veterans Mem. Pkwy., O’Fallon. 636272-1945 or www.vfwpost5077.org.

The O’Fallon Optimist Club meets on the second and fourth Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at Bank of Old Monroe T.R. Hughes Blvd. in O’Fallon.

For more information, contact CyndySchwab at 636-544-0102.

Wednesdays: Yoga at The St. Charles County Family YMCA

Thursdays: Lions Club meetings

Wednesdays: Charity Bingo

6-6:55pm Any level. Info: 636-9281928.

Wednesdays: Hope & Healing

5-6pm, Dardenne Presbyterian Rock Church, 7400 South Outer 364 in Dardenne Prairie on the first Wednesday of the month. Unique service of music, worship, and prayer for those in need of hope and healing.

Wednesdays: St. Charles Area Wood Carvers

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

Wednesdays: Take Off Pounds Sensibly

Take Off Pounds Sensibly meets every Wednesday at 10 a.m. in the parish hall of Chapel of the Cross Lutheran Church at 907 Jungermann Rd. in St. Peters. TOPS is a national non-profit weight-loss organization that supports its members in attaining their goal

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

3rd Thursday: Fleur de Lis Garden Society

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

3rd Thursdays: Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 458 Meeting

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

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

Every Thursday: Dardenne Presbyterian Church Quilters

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

Members do hand quilting to quilts of any size for donation that is given to various church supported charities.

No experience is necessary to join the group. For more information, contact Brenda Kenny at 636.240.3753.

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

Meets at JJ’s Restaurant in O’Fallon at 12 noon, except third Thursday the group meets at 6 p.m. Info: www.ofkiwanis.com.

Every Thursday: Rotary Club meeting

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

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

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

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

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

3rd Thursday of each month: Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 458 meetings

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

2nd and 4th Thursdays: Lions Club meetings

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

Every Friday: Moms Play Group

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

Every Friday: VFW Fish Fry

3-8pm VFW Post 2866. 66 VFW Lane.

Call Bill Sams, 636.724.9612.

Fridays: Bingo

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

Every Saturday: Chess

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

Every Saturday: Veterans Learn guitar for FREE

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

Every Saturday: Peaceful Puppy Mill Protest

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

What’s Happening

Second and Fourth Saturday of the month: Charitable bingo

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

9

2nd Sunday: The Wheelers and Dealers Square Dance

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

Saturdays: Fruehschoppen Samstag Verein (FSV)

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

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

CROSSWORD answers from page F-4

1st & 3rd Saturday: St Peters Square Dance Club Dances

Pre ropund dance fom 7 - 7:30 p.m., dancing from 7:30 - 10 p.m. 1st United Methodist Church, 801 First Capital Dr. www.squaredancemissouri.com/ Missouri/St.Louis

3rd Saturdays: Restore St. Charles Work Day. 8am, Dardenne Presbyterian Church, 7400 South Outer 364 in Dardenne Prairie. Volunteer labor needed to provide the needy in our community with adequate living accommodations.

Continental breakfast, safety instructions, and job assignments provided before work begins.

Every Sunday: Wentzville Community Club Flea Market

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

Sundays: group

Alzheimer’s support

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

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

Sundays: Overeaters Anonymous

Do you eat when you’re not hungry?

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

2nd Sunday: Moscow Mills Lions Breakfast

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

SUDOKU answers from page F-1

10

Sports

December 23, 2020 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

Sports you see with Gary B...

Basketball player at Lindenwood earns early holiday honors Redshirt junior guard Devin Fuhring has been named the Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC) Player of the Week, the conference announced.

Fuhring becomes the third player in program history to receive the accolade and first time in her career that she has earned the award. She becomes the second player this season joining Julia Ruzevich.

Fuhring averaged a team-high 27.5 points per game in Lindenwood’s first two home wins of the season, over Missouri S&T and Truman State. Against Truman State, Fuhring put up a career-high 33 points, which is tied for the fourth-highest scoring output in a single-game in team history. She also scored 22 points in just 25 minutes on Thursday vs. the Miners.

The 5’-9” guard out of St. James, Missouri. also averaged 4.5 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 2.0 steals, and one block over the two-game span for Lindenwood. From the field, Fuhring hit on 19-36 shots (.528), including 8-11 (.727) from deep. She shot 9-11 (.818) at the charity stripe, as she is now tied for ninth in the GLVC in free throw percentage.

Her 10 field goals and five three-pointers made against Truman State tied previous career-high marks. She also tied her career-highs for single-game rebounds with eight against Missouri S&T. Fuhring moves up to No. 12 in the conference in scoring with 17.0 points per game. She is also No. 4 in three-point field goal percentage (.500) and ninth in three-pointers made per game (2.20) in the GLVC. ~~~Leading the pack Cheerleading tryouts for indoor football The St. Louis Bandits are scheduled to take the field in early spring and will be a part of the American Arena Football league.

Tryout applications need to be submitted by Jan. 15, 2021 on line and will be held at the Per-

forming Arts studio in O’Fallon.

Go to www.StLouisFootballBandits.com for more details. ~~~The Banshees will lead the crowd Women’s basketball team at UMSL gain second victory The University of Missouri-St. Louis women’s basketball team wrapped up a four-game season-opening home stand on Friday night by earning a 68-51 wins over Lindenwood in GLVV play.

The Tritons limited the visiting Lions to 31.4 percent shooting and forced 18 turnovers.

Senior Alex LaPorta scored a season-high 20 points, while adding eight rebounds, three steals and three assists.

The Tritons held an 18-16 lead after the first 10 minutes, which saw a combined 10 fouls, including seven by UMSL. They owned a 34-24 advantage at the half after limiting the Lions to just 24.1 percent shooting.

A 12-3 start by the Tritons to the third quarter helped UMSL outscore its guests, 25-11, in that frame to take a 59-35 lead into the final quarter.

Other contributors included Junior Kiara Stewart who added 15 points, seven rebounds and two steals.

UMSL shot 45 percent, held a 37-34 rebounding advantage and collected a season-high 12 steals.

The Tritons outscored the Lions, 17-8, in second chance points, and 19-13 in points off turnovers.

This young season finds UMSL with two wins and losses. ~~~Tough defense 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 23, 2020

Recipe:

Feature

F-1

– SUDOKU –

A special sweet-tart treat for the holidays

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.

Grape Frangipane Tart Servings: 10

A

ll kinds of holiday celebrations, whether with immediate family or joining loved ones virtually, can be made better with sweet treats that add special meaning to the occasion. Including fresh fruit in your treat can make it an even tastier take on seasonal tradition.

For example, fresh California grapes are available into January and are perfect for the holiday season. Enjoy them as a fresh, healthy snack or side dish, or as an ingredient to add taste and visual appeal to recipes to make the season feel special.

This Grape Frangipane Tart offers a simple solution when your sweet tooth calls for a dish to share with family. Everyday ingredients likely already in your pantry combine with fresh grapes for a sweet-tart twist worthy of the holidays.

Ingredients: 1 t art pastry, single crust (10 inches) 3 1/2 cups red or black seedless grapes 2 o unces almond paste 1 l arge egg 1/4 cup sugar 1/4 cup butter 2 t ablespoons flour 1 p inch salt confectioners’ sugar

Directions: Preheat oven to 375 F. Line 10-inch tart pan with pastry. Arrange grapes snugly in decorative rings in pastry. With electric mixer, combine almond paste, egg, sugar, butter, flour and salt until smooth to create frangipane. Carefully spread over arranged grapes and bake 35 minutes until tart is golden brown and cooked through.

When tart is cool, remove from pan and dust with confectioners’ sugar.

Nutritional information per serving: 151 calories; 2 g protein; 8 g fat; 46% calories from fat; 19 g carbohydrates; 34 mg cholesterol; .8 g fiber; 86 mg sodium.

SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 9

Find more holiday dessert recipes at grapesfromcalifornia.com

Disney’s live adaptation of ‘Mulan’ focuses on action, not music

I

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.

n 2019, Walt Disney Pictures released live-action adaptations of two animated blockbuster from the 1990’s: “Aladdin” and “The Lion King.” Following in the wispy blue footprints of the late Robin Williams, Will Smith’s take on the Genie was funny and engaging, especially when it came to singing the iconic songs. For “The Lion King,” director Jon Favreau and his crew created photorealistic computer-animated characters voiced by the likes of Donald Glover, Seth Rogen, Chiwetel Ejiofor and Alfre Woodard.

Both films did exceptionally well at the box office, so Disney had high hopes for the live-action version of “Mulan.” Though the film’s premiere was held at the Dolby Theater in Hollywood on March 9, the theatrical release was rescheduled a few times due to the pandemic. In a move that has become common, the adaptation was released to Disney+, the company’s streaming service, at a premium price of $29.99. As of Dec. 4; however, it is available for free to all active Disney subscribers.

Unlike the directors of Disney’s other adaptations, Niki Caro (“The Zookeeper’s Wife,” ”Whale Rider”) made a bold move to

a valuable member of the army. She does have to disguise her true gender from the other recruits, though, and cannot bathe with them. At one point her poor hygiene prompts them to tell her that she stinks.

With no production numbers and show-stopping songs, the focus here is on the story, characterizations and the action. Donnie Yen is solid as Commander Tung, leader of the Imperial Army who appreciates Mulan’s skill on the battlefield. Jason Scott Lee (“Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story”) makes Bori Khan, leader of a group of Rouran warriors, an impressive and terrifying figure. Rosalind Chao also deserves praise for her performance as Hua Li, Mulan’s mother.

Without a doubt; however, this is Liu Yifei’s movie from start to finish. Though I love animation, I did not miss the production numbers or even Eddie Murphy as the Chinese Dragon Mushu from the animated feature. Yifei is powerful and commanding in a role that is as compelling as Gal Gadot’s Wonder Woman, if not more so. This is a fantastic family film and one that truly deserved a full theatrical release.

The live-action version of “Mulan” is now available to Disney+ subscribers.

Photo courtesy Walt Disney Studios

use instrumental versions of the songs from the animated feature. This means you will not hear Donny Osmond sing “I’ll Make a Man Out of You,” but the action and characters more than make up for it. Harry Gregson-Williams composed the score and Christina Aguilera recorded a new version of the song “Reflection” from the original animated feature.

Both versions of “Mulan” are based on a Chinese folk tale. Mulan, magnificently portrayed by Liu Yifei, takes her ailing father’s place when Imperial soldiers arrive to conscript men into the Emperor’s army. Mulan didn’t do well when she met with a matchmaker, but her skills as a warrior make her

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Feature

ACTIVE BUYER

COLLECTIBLES

December 23, 2020 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

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NOVENA PRAYER TO ST. JUDE

HELP WANTED

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

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

It has never been known to fail.

Thank you, St. Jude. R.H.

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Feature

December 23, 2020 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

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 Crazy mad mayhem. Those are the words for this time of year. Christmas errands are piling up and there’s no time left. If you haven’t gone to the post office before now then prepare for a torturous experience.

The line was long. How long?

Even longer than the one at the restroom at our family reunion after eating Aunt Fiona’s jalapeno crab dip surprise. The bathroom was out of order.

Surprise!

Yes, yes. I should have mailed my things earlier in the month. “Get your packages and cards mailed out early,” the crabby voice inside my head said; “the lines together with COVID are going to cause delays,” it said. I poo-pooed it and listened instead to the polite voice that whispered, “There’s plenty of time. It’s barely past Thanksgiving. You still have leftover giblets. Grab a Dr. Pepper and read a book.”

So I read my book and finished up my drink then checked my watch. The time was Dec. 20!

Holy fruitcake! I jumped up and scribbled Happy Thanksgiving on the Christmas cards and…

Oopsie! Oh well, an early greeting for next year. I then shoved a few things in a box to mail off to the grandkids and grabbed my husband.

He picked up a package. “Why is this one meowing?”

I didn’t have time to answer silly questions. We headed out the front door and saw a line of people standing there.

“Excuse me, what is going on here?’ I asked.

“Line for the post office,” a woman said.

“No, no. This is my front yard.

The post office is two miles away.”

“Right.

I’ve been here since Wednesday.

I thought I was safe. I still had leftover giblets.”

I stood my husband behind her and periodically brought him out snacks and beverages and hand warmers and threats not to get out of line or else I’d feed him some jalapeno crab dip.

After several days he made it back home ragged and exhausted.

“We did it!” I exclaimed.

“Yes we…I did. The clerk said they should make it to their destination by mid-January.”

“Well it’s the spirit of the thing isn’t it? By the way, have you seen the fat cat?”

“No but, I told you one of the boxes was meowing.”

“Oh well, the grandkids were asking for a pet.”

Surprise!

Red letter day

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. *New wardrobe accessory 5. *RIP, ____ 8. Flock’s echo 12. Reply from a tunnel?

13. Feline noise 14. Edward Teller’s “baby” 15. Beat 16. Competently 17. Savory jelly 18. *Blue vs. red competition 20. One third of a threepiece suit 21. Mailed greetings 22. Long time 23. ____ biloba 26. Anointing oil 30. Nurses’ org.

31. Leafy vegetable 34. “Cogito, ____ sum” 35. Mooring spots 37. Bring into play 38. Old Brazilian coins 39. Prefix with ‘graph’ 40. *Joe’s running mate 42. PGA peg 43. What bees did 45. Fixes firmly 47. Summer mo.

48. R in NPR 50. Widespread

52. *WHO’s March announcement 55. Cliffside dwelling 56. Drop-off spot 57. Sonic sound 59. Sports figures, e.g.

60. Persian backgammon 61. Water carrier 62. *Late basketball legend 63. *____ lightning, cause of California wildfires 64. X-ray units DOWN 1. Copy cats 2. Flu symptom 3. Synagogue 4. 1/100th of a ruble 5. Bid again 6. Western neckwear, pl.

7. Gwyneth, to friends 8. *Like a vote during lockdown 9. What Joy Mangano does on TV 10. Do like exhaust pipe 11. *”Transplant” network 13. ____ of honor 14. It’s often wreaked 19. Zoo enclosures

22. Compass dir.

23. Labored breaths 24. *Jared Kushner to Donald Trump 25. Nigerian money 26. Part of an eye 27. About to explode 28. Looked at, amorously 29. Smelling organs 32. Two of the same 33. Philosopher’s study 36. *Best Picture Oscarwinner 38. China grass 40. Party barrel 41. Having a cover 44. *What Zoom host does to guests, sometimes 46. Type of jacket 48. “M*A*S*H” character 49. Ticked off 50. *President Trump used this power in 2020 51. United ____ Emirates 52. Be undecided 53. *Caucus state 54. Like most universities 55. Pose a question 58. Robinson or Doubtfire SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 9