CNSTC: Dec. 19. 2012

December 19, 2012

Vol 14

July 13, 2011

No 51

Vol 13 No 28

Westbound Blanchette bridge construction to continue until fall of 2013, MoDOT urging drivers to seek alternative routes and commuting options.

Blanchette Bridge Under Construction Until Fall 2013

By DeAnna Massie

IN this Issue

Anyone relying on I-70 as the primary route to and from St. Charles County is already aware of the major construction taking place on the Blanchette bridge. The $63 million project, which began in November, is expected to take a full year to complete. MoDOT plans on reopening the westbound span in the fall of 2013. In the meantime, traffic will be detoured to the eastbound I-70 bridge. All ramps at Fifth Street will be open except for the ramp from northbound Fifth Street to eastbound I-70.

Northbound Fifth Street traffic will have a signed detour on Veterans Memorial to Route 94 to access eastbound I-70.

Options For Avoiding Traffic Especially during the busy holiday season, the eastbound lane, which now carries three lanes in each direction with 10 foot lanes and no shoulders, is expected to be congested. Normally, the bridges carry five lanes in each direction. The reduction in lanes will also mean traffic backups during the morning and evening rush drive times. Because of the high volume of drivers on fewer lanes, MoDOT suggests adjusting your drive time to avoid peak rush and to run errands during midday or weekend hours.

Of course, commuters heading to work or school do not have the option of avoiding rush drive times, but there are some options. MoDOT suggests that motorists consider Route 370 and Route 364 as the major alternate routes to cross the Missouri River.

Photo courtesy of MoDOT

Commuters can also connect with other riders at RideFinders, the St. Louis Regional Rideshare Program. At no cost to users, RideFinders matches commuters online or over the phone.

Drivers and riders can elect to be part of a carpool or vanpool. Carpool riders share the cost of gas with the driver.

Vanpool drivers have the entire cost of gas covered by passengers. There are 8,300 carpoolers in almost 4,000 carpools in St. Louis. 900 vanpoolers take advantage of 88 RideFinders vanpools in the region.

For employers, colleges and school districts looking to make the commute manageable for employees and students, please note there is no cost or liability to participate in RideFinders.

Currently more than 900 employers/ colleges and 50 K-12 schools promote ridesharing.

To find a ride or learn more, visit www. ridefinders.org, or call 800.847.7433 (800.VIP.RIDE).

What’s wrong with the bridge?

The westbound span of the Blanchette bridge was built in the late 1950s.

Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6 Lincoln County Life . . . . . . . . . . . 7 School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9 Business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-11

Major river crossings are designed to teriorate, and expensive emergency relast approxiametly100 years. However, pairs will shut down the bridge more the lifespan of a major river crossing frequently. is dependent on a significant overhaul To ensure the bridge will be safe for at the fifty year mark. Without major See BLANCHETTE BRIDGE page 3 repairs, the bridge will continue to de-

MOVIE PEEK

Christmas Traditions . . . . . . . . 12-13 Learn & Play / Pet Adoptions . . . . 14 Movie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Joe Morice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

See MOVIE page 15

“Hitchcock” - Photo courtesy of Fox Searchlight

Shelly Schneider / Recipe . . . . . . . . .17 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 What’s Happening . . . . . . . . . . . 20-21 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22-23

2139 Bryan Valley Commercial Dr. • O’Fallon, MO 63366 P: 636.379.1775 F: 636.379.1632 E: cnews@centurytel.net

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Around Town

December 19, 2012 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

Seven Scouts Presented First Nova Awards by AT&T President

The first seven Scouts who earned the new Boy Scouts of America’s Nova Award in the Greater St. Louis Area Council were presented their recognitions by John Sondag, President of AT&T Missouri. Mr. Sondag presented the awards during an event at AT&T. “Getting young people involved in a STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) curriculum is very important. I am proud of AT&T’s continued commitment to education through our $250 million Aspire Program,” said Sondag, a member of the Council’s Executive Board. “We are partnering with the Boy Scout Council on this STEM initiative because it builds a strong educational foundation for our youth. A foundation important for them and for our country.”

Sondag presented a donation of $15,000 during the event to provide funding for the council’s new STEM initiatives. They include robotics programs, science activities and outdoor experiences.

The Boy Scouts of America’s NOVA Awards program incorporates learning with fun activities and exposure to STEM-related fields More information on the program can be found at www.stem. stlbsa.org.

Celebrate the Season with a Holiday Concert at the Foundry Art Centre Serapis and Friends New Year’s Eve Celebration Monday, December 31, 2012 – Show begins at 9 p.m., Doors open at 8 p.m.

Tickets: $25 per person Be a part of the continuing celebration of the 30th anniversary of Serapis! Don’t miss this special night of music and a chance to share some holiday cheer.

By special arrangement, the band will be playing with some of their very dear friends, Mark Moebeck, Brian Casserly and Rick Clifford. The Foundry Art Centre and Serapis would invite you to join in the fun.

Guests can bring a snack to share with friends, but the Foundry Art Centre cannot allow alcoholic beverages to be brought into the facility. There will be a cash bar available prior to and during the Serapis and Friends concert.

Get friends together and reserve a table - or grab your sweetheart and make it a date. Whatever you do, don’t miss your chance to enjoy New Year’s Eve at a beautiful location with this all-star band.

For more information or to purchase tickets for this concert, call 636.255.0270.

Tickets can also be purchased online, through the Foundry Art Centre website at www.foundryartcentre.org.

Enjoy “The Good Old Days” on this Missouri Day Trip On Wednesday, January 30, board the motor coach for an entertaining trip, “Churchill, Cars and Crane’s,” featuring the “good old days” with stops at: • The National Churchill Museum in Fulton to view a stirring film about Winston Churchill’s leadership of Great Britain in World War II, Churchill’s Finest Hour.

• The Auto World Museum to tour the museum’s collection of vintage cars and auto-related

www.mobap.edu

memorabilia • The Post Office Bar & Grill for lunch • Crane’s Museum and Shoppes (formerly Crane’s Country Store) in Williamsburg, a Missouri treasure dating to 1926 when “regulars” socialized around the potbellied stove. The museum displays generations of one family’s collectibles.

The deadline to sign up for the trip is Sunday, December 30. The cost of $85 for O’Fallon residents and $95 for non-residents includes transportation, lunch, admissions, tours, and gratuities. On the day of the trip, the motor coach will pick up travelers at 8 a.m. in the main parking lot at Civic Park, and return to O’Fallon by 5 p.m.

Please register as soon as possible to keep trips from being cancelled due to low enrollment.

Call 636.474.2732, or register online at www.ofallon.mo.us/ ParksandRec. Or, sign up in person at the Renaud Spirit Center (RSC), 2650 Tri Sports Circle, O’Fallon MO 63368, or at the O’Fallon Parks and Recreation Administration Office, 400 Civic Park Drive (63366).

For more information, contact Recreation Specialist Stacey Ostmann, 636.474.8105, sostmann@ofallon.mo.us.

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www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • December 19, 2012

New Rec-Plex Semester Offers Variety of Fitness Options & More

Around Town

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BLANCHETTE BRIDGE from Cover

If you resolve to get fit in 2013, the St. Peters Rec-Plex offers a wide range of group fitness classes that can help you reach your goals. We also have plenty of programs for kids as well as adult leagues this upcoming semester that goes from January through May. Class registration is underway now.

Rec-Plex group fitness classes give you plenty of options to get moving.

Work the entire body with Kettlebell. Go easy on your body’s joints with Aqua Aerobics. Boot-scoot yourself to a better you with a new Country Line Dancing class. Burn off the calories with Rec-Plex Xtreme (RPX) Cycling. Get stronger with weight training classes. Center yourself and build from your core with Yoga or Pilates. Take your workout to another level at Real Fitness Bootcamp classes. Choose from a wide variety of Group Aerobics classes that are FREE to St. Peters Rec-Plex members.

Rec-Plex group fitness classes are available for kids as young as 18 months through Family Fitness Classes. And, seniors can find a number of options suited for them. Our 50+ Fitness classes range from weight training to a new Arthritis Foundation Walk with Ease Program for people with or without arthritis.

Other programs open to registration at the Rec-Plex include ice skating, hockey skating, swimming, scuba diving, indoor triathlons, instructional baseball, softball pitching, classical fencing, and adult leagues for volleyball, flag football and softball.

Sign up for Rec-Plex classes by phone at 636.939.2386, ext. 1400, or in person at the St. Peters RecPlex, 5200 Mexico Road, any time Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The registration desk is closed on Sundays and City holidays. Online registration is available for most programs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, by using the Rec-Connect service at www. stpetersmo.net/rec-plex.

For more information about St. Peters recreation, parks or arts programs, the Leisure Line program guide is available at the Rec-Plex and St. Peters City Hall, as well as online at www.stpetersmo.net.

years to come, MoDOT plans to: remove and replace the existing truss spans with new trusses, replace the complete driving surface, edge barrier walls and all expansion joints, eliminate the three spans nearest to the St. Louis County end and their conversion to roadway on embankment, repair all remaining concrete substructure units and replace necessary parts, completely replace the structural steel in the first nine spans of the bridge on the St. Charles County side, repair the structural steel components of the long girder spans and truss spans and repaint all of the existing structural steel.

On Wednesday, December 5, about a thousand spectators gathered to watch the dramatic demolition of the westbound span. At mid-morning, 65 lbs. of explosives sent the bridge tumbling into the river below. As work continues, residents are still interested in seeing the transformation, but don’t have to battle traffic to see the project. MoDOT has installed a camera on the top of the Ameristar hotel that takes a photograph of the bridge approximately every 15 minutes. Pictures and more information can be found at www. modot.org/blanchettebridge.

For more information, please contact I-70 Blanchette Bridge Project Manager Tom Evers, or Community Relations Coordinator Linda Wilson Horn at 888.ASK.MODOT (275.6636)

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The City of O’Fallon presents...

Cars $9 Tuesday special $7 Person Vans $15, buses $1 Per ($25 min.)

Carriage rides reservations required! Call 636-390-4403.

Train rides and sleigh Hayrides reservations required! Call 636-379-5502 to schedule a ride.

Train rides only run on mondays!

November 23–December 30 Closed deCember 25

sun, Tues-Thu 6–9 p.m., Fri and sat 6–10 p.m. at Fort Zumwalt Park in o’Fallon, mo one night only!

$1

off

Tuesday, Dec. 11 • 6–9 p.m.

admission with a canned good

Please present coupon. offer not valid for Holiday stroll, carriage rides, train rides, hayrides or Tuesdays.

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admission $2

For more information or directions, 636-379-5614 or www.ofallon.mo.us/COL www.ofallon.mo.us/COL

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Around Town

December 19, 2012 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

City of St. Charles Announces Leadership Change in Police Department Mayor Sally Faith names Randall D. McKinley Police Chief; appointment effective January 21, 2013.

Mayor Sally Faith has named Randall D. McKinley, Chief of Police from the City of Bloomington, IL, to serve as the City of St. Charles’ next Police Chief.

Last night the City Council confirmed the Mayor’s appointment. McKinley will officially start work on January 21, 2013.

“We initiated a nationwide search for the person who will serve in this important position for the city,” said Mayor Sally Faith. “Randy quickly rose to the top of the list based on his years of experience, coupled with his dedication to the field of law enforcement and his ability to think strategically. His leadership is what we need here in St. Charles, and we look forward to having him on board in the not-too-distant future,” she said.

McKinley, who lives in the Bloomington/Normal area, is starting his 29th year with the Bloomington Police Department, where he is approaching the four-

year mark serving in the capacity of Police Chief after having been named Interim Chief of Police in January 2009. McKinley is a member of Law Enforcement Development Associates, International Association of Chiefs of Police, FBI National Academy Associates, International Association of Law Enforcement Planners, International Association of Identification and the Illinois Association of Crisis Negotiators. He also serves as Commander of Crisis Response Negotiators and Commander of the Office of Professional Standards.

According to Michael Spurgeon, director of administration, the selection committee reviewed a number of well-qualified candidates for the position before making the decision to bring Chief McKinley’s name forward for confirmation. “St. Charles has an outstanding police department with an excellent reputation of protecting and serving the people who live,

work, and visit our community,” he said. “We are looking forward to Randy joining our city and leadership team. I’d also like to take the opportunity, on behalf of Mayor Faith, City Council and the entire Police Department, to recognize Larry Stulce for his service as Interim Chief of Police. We were very fortunate to have Larry with us and appreciate Randall D. McKinley his efforts and dedication to duty during his term,” Spurgeon added.

For more information, please direct all questions to Mayor Faith or Michael Spurgeon in the office of administration at 636.949.3200.

SCC Young People’s Theatre to Hold Open Auditions for ‘The Scarlet Pimpernel’ January 3 St. Charles Community College’s Young People’s Theatre will hold open auditions for the production of “The Scarlet Pimpernel.” This romantic musical, set in 18th century France, is swashbuckling, adventurous, and packed with action and comedy.

Open auditions for children ages 8-18 will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday, January 3, 2013, in the Donald D. Shook Fine Arts Building on the SCC campus in Cottleville. Callbacks will be Saturday, January 5, 2013.

A parent or guardian must be present with their child during the audition process. Middle school students and above should prepare 16-32 measures of a solo from a Broadway show. Younger students will be taught a song at auditions.

Those auditioning will be expected to do cold call readings from the script and learn a short dance combination. Students should bring dance shoes or comfortable shoes and clothing.

“The Scarlet Pimpernel” is a tale of intrigue, romance and hilarity that is set

during the French Revolution, where a small group of British men, led by the mysterious “Scarlet Pimpernel,” rescue French aristocrats from the guillotine. Everyone become curious to know the identity of the dashing hero – including an emissary of the newly established French Republic, sent by Robespierre himself.

Diversions, blackmail, swordplay and sheer tomfoolery ensue as people try to solve the mystery.

“The Scarlet Pimpernel” will be performed in the theater of the Fine Arts Building at 7 p.m. Friday-Saturday, March 15-16 and 22-23, and 2 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, March 16-17 and 23-24.

SCC’s Young People’s Theatre offers quality family theater productions through the college’s Corporate & Community Division. YPT offers children and young adults ages 8-18 the opportunity to learn all aspects of theatre production through a variety of classes and participation in live theater productions.

For more information about auditions or the play, please call 636.922.8233 or visit www.stchas.edu/YPT.

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www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • December 19, 2012

Around Town

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Foundry Art Centre Announces Call for Studio Artists

The Foundry Art Centre, located in Historic St. Charles, Missouri, is currently accepting applications for available studio space.

Studio artists will be selected by a jury panel on Monday, January 21, 2013 to rent studio space for one year, renewable after the first year. Completed applications are being accepted now, with a deadline of Sunday, January 20, 2013 for submission.

Foundry Studio Artists serve as part of the dynamic atmosphere that sets the Foundry apart from other organizations, and as such are required to commit to a moderate amount of time in their studios during operating hours and Foundry sponsored events.

Located on the mezzanine level, the glass-fronted studios afford natural light and 24 hour access. The Foundry Art Centre has studio space ranging from 375 sq. ft. to 786 sq. ft. with single studios averaging 375 sq. ft. in size.

The cost of studio space is $8.60 per sq. ft. per year for all studios and includes basic utilities and 24 hour access. Artists are encouraged to consider joint application for larger studios to help defray expenses and to meet the center’s minimum hours of openstudio time for studio residents.

An information session will be held in the Ameristar Gallery on the first floor of the Foundry Art Centre on Tuesday, January 8 at 6 p.m. This is an

optional meeting during which the jurying process will be discussed, and is a good opportunity for applicants to ask any questions they may have.

For more information about the Foundry Art Centre’s Call for Studio Artists, call 636.255.0270, or visit www. foundryartcentre.org and download the 2013 Annual Jury for Studio Space Application.

MDC Seeks Recycled Christmas Trees to Benefit Fish and Anglers Christmas trees can have a second life after the holidays by providing home for fish - and an advantage for anglers.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is accepting used natural Christmas trees to create fish habitat in Lake 35 on the August A. Busch Conservation Area in St. Charles, and in Creve Coeur Lake in St. Louis County.

So how does recycling a used Christmas tree give fish something to celebrate? Turns out, a bunch of them can create the aquatic equivalent of an underwater condominium.

“A lot of lakes we work with are manmade and there’s not much fish cover in them, so we have to figure out how to put fish habitat in those lakes,” said Kevin Meneau, MDC Fisheries Management Biologist. “Christmas trees are one of the best ways to do that in winter.”

According to Meneau, the trees provide woody cover that makes excellent habitat for invertebrates. These are an ideal food source for smaller fish, which draws them in like a magnet. This in turn brings in bigger fish and creates a situation that gives a boost to the lake’s entire food chain.

“They also help young fish,” Meneau added, “because when

the adults spawn their young can hide in those trees.”

The trees benefit some of the most popular fish that anglers like to pursue, including largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish and crappie.

Since these fish typically spawn in shallow water, the trees are tied to cement blocks and submerged at depths of four- to- seven feet to give emerging fish easy access to their cover.

The underwater brush piles concentrate fish, so the submerged trees can be a boon for anglers as well. By noting the location of the trees, astute anglers can focus their efforts in these areas to improve their odds.

Meneau said the tree tops are usually visible for five to six weeks after being put into the lake, before they become water logged and sink completely. This gives anglers until about mid-March to locate these potential fishing jackpots. Resourceful anglers often

mark the sites for future reference on maps they make themselves or by using a GPS. Meneau said it’s best to drop off the entire tree, without cutting it up or removing any branches. Tree donors are asked to remove all decorations, including lights, garland and ornaments before drop off.

Recycled Christmas trees are requested at Lake 35 on the August A. Busch Conservation Area in St. Charles. The entrance to the conservation area is on Route D, two miles west of Highway 94. Signs will guide visitors to the drop off point.

Christmas trees can be donated at these lakes between now and January 13, 2013.

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For more information about this program, including graduation and employment rates, tuition and fees, and median debt of students who have completed the program, please visit www.vatterott.edu/programs.asp.

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December 19, 2012 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

Lake Saint Louis Parks & Recreation Events

Congratulations!

2013 Lake Saint Louis Youth Baseball/Softball League This league is open to all boys and girls ages 5-15.

League games are played April-July.

Registrations for the New Horizons Sports League will be accepted beginning Monday, January 7, 2013.

Registration Fees: $94 per child Non-Resident $73 per child LSL Resident $10 discount for each additional family member For additional details or to register, visit www.lakesaintlouis.com; look under the Parks and Recreation section.

Lake Saint Louis Art Classes The Lake Saint Louis Parks & Recreation department is proud to offer 4 separate classes instructed by award winning artist Marie Donato - www.mariedonato.com.

Registrations are now being accepted for January 2013 classes!

Choose from Pastel Painting, Drawing, Watercolor or Open Studio. The next set of lessons will begin the week of January 14 and will meet for two hours each week for 6 total weeks. Cost per session is $82, and supplies are purchased separately.

Call 636.561.4620 to register, or visit www.lakesaintlouis.com; look under the parks and recreation section.

Flex & Strength Adult Yoga Registrations are now being accepted for January 2013 classes!

Join our instructor as she incorporates poses and stretches from yoga and Pilates. All skill levels welcome. Classes are ongoing, and the next session will begin on January 7 and meet for 6 weeks on Mondays and Thursdays (12 total classes.) Note: Please bring your own mat to class.

For more information and to register, visit www.lakesaintlouis.com; look under the parks and recreation section.

Levi Thomas Durant was born on November 15, 2012 at 1:21 pm. He was 7.4 ounces and 20.5 inches long. He is the son of proud parents Darian and Rebecca Durant. And the loving brother of 4 sisters: Katelyn, Savannah, Madeleine, and Julienne, and 1 brother Dominic.

Donate Blood in Honor of Anna Dennis The Lake Saint Louis Police Department is sponsoring a blood drive in honor of Anna Dennis on Wednesday, December 19, from 4-8 p.m. at the Lake Saint Louis Civic Center Council Chambers, 200 Civic Center Drive.

Who is Anna Dennis? On June 21, 2012, three days after her second birthday Anna Dennis was diagnosed with Leukemia.

Since her diagnosis Anna has received chemotherapy treatments along with numerous blood product transfusions to help her fight her battle. Anna is just one more reason why we should all join together to donate blood and show our support in helping those in need.

While walk-ins are welcome, it is recommended that donors schedule an appointment. To make an appointment or for eligibility questions, call 1.800.RED CROSS, visit www.redcrossblood.org, or call the Lake Saint Louis Police Department at 636.625.8018.

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www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • December 19, 2012

Around Town

New ECEC Ready Ahead of Schedule, Boundary Realignments to be Finalized in February Construction on the Early Childhood Education Center is ahead of schedule and will open for its students at the start of second semester in January. The new school is located on South Main Street and is a result of a successful no-tax increase bond issue in April 2012.

The second portion of the spring measure calls for a re-purposing of the eastern portion of the Claude Brown Building into a small K-5 elementary of approximately 300 students. The school will open in August 2013 and require boundary realignment for the elementary school of the Lincoln County R-III School District.

Currently, a volunteer Boundary Committee is studying enrollment projections, building capacities, “hot spots” for growth and creating a “feeder school” system.

The Boundary Committee will continue to meet with the District’s Planner, RSP & Associates, for the next several weeks. The committee will present a draft of the proposed realignment at a public forum at William Cappel Elementary on Tuesday, January 8, 2013.

After receiving public feedback, the committee will finalize recommendations for the February Board of Education meeting.

TBHS Journalism Students Honored at National Competition Several journalism students attended the Journalism Education Association Conference in San Antonio in November. The following entered into competitions in writing, photography or design: Zackary Hudgens, Jennifer Firoved, Samantha Stevenson, Olivia Grelle, Cheyenne Collins, Paige Martin, Michal Talley, Alexandria Walker, Caitlyn Burkemper, Meagan Weldon, Megan Ryba, Heather Wieman, Kelly Crandall, Allison Spence and Kara Marler.

Of the approximately 3,000 students who attended nationwide (as well as Canada, Britain and Korea), 1,734 students entered into the contests.

Of those, three students from TBHS were recognized at the Awards ceremony. They are: Caitlyn Burkemper: Honorable Mention Award, Yearbook Design: Theme; Zackary Hudgens:

Honorable Mention, Literary Magazine Design; Jennifer Firoved: Honorable Mention, Computer Design: Advertising.

LCMC offers a diabetes educational program that is convenient and close to home. Once referred by a physician, patients may be eligible for both individual and group educational sessions that teach them how to manage their disease. This comprehensive program is for diabetics who have not received any previous formal diabetes education.

Led by the LCMC health team, the Diabetes Support Group Education sessions are held on the third Thursday of every month at 6:30 p.m. Patients interested in this program should discuss eligibility with their physicians. For more information, contact a LCMC educator at 636.528.3387.

“City Lights” was the theme of this year’s Elsberry High School 2012 Christmas Dance held in the school gymnasium on Friday, Dec 7. Candidates for the coronation were Courtney Orf and Braden Spratt, seniors; Cody Galloway and Felicia Pruitt, juniors; Ben Rhoades and Kate Boedeker, sophomores; and Zae Lyskowski and Angel Henke, freshmen.

Lincoln County Christmas Day Dinner The Lincoln County Christmas Day Dinner will be held on Christmas Day, Tuesday, December 25 at St. Stephen United Methodist Church from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. This free event is offered in memory of William Dunlap. There will be a free meal for all who attend and toys for the children. Meals are available for delivery for those who cannot attend. Delivery request forms are available at St. Stephen United Methodist Church and should be returned to Coose Title, C/O Ralph Coose, 21 Prospect Circle, Troy, MO 63379.

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LCMC Diabetes Support Group Accepting New Members

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School

December 19, 2012 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

Fort Zumwalt News

Ryan Schieler of Metro Air Support spoke with students at Ostmann Elementary School in O’Fallon and showed off the Division’s new $2.1 million MD-500e helicopter. Metro Air Support works with the St. Louis Metro and St. Louis County Police Departments, the St. Charles County Sheriff’s Department, the St. Louis Port Authority and the United States Coast Guard doing search and rescue missions in the region. The new helicopter was purchased with grant money from the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Urban Areas Security Initiative.

WSD Receives Meritorious Budget Award for Second Year The Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO) has awarded the Wentzville School District the Meritorious Budget Award (MBA) for excellence in budget presentation for the second consecutive year. The award is conferred only to districts that have met or exceeded the Meritorious Budget Award criteria, and last year Wentzville was one of only seven school districts in the state of Missouri to receive the award. “The MBA recognizes the District’s efforts to inform the community about our financial operations,” said Chief Financial Officer Kari Monsees. “The budget document is more than just dollars and cents, it also explains how resources are generated and allocated for the benefit of our students.” To earn this award, the school district submitted its 201213 budget for a rigorous review based on stringent criteria.

Developed by ASBO for school districts, the MBA criteria guide school business officials toward a quality school budget presentation by enhancing the school business officials’ skills in developing, analyzing, and presenting a school system budget. “Our goal as business officials is to support the learning process through fiscal responsibility and strong financial practices based on transparency, accountability, and service,” said Director of Accounting Susan Dawson. “The budget supports this goal and is also a way for us to communicate our commitment to a quality education for our students.”

The Association of School Business Officials International, founded in 1910, is a professional association of more than 5,000 members that provides programs and services to promote the highest standards of school business management practices, professional growth, and the effective use of educational resources.

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1. Fourth grade students at Rock Creek Elementary School held their annual Grandparents’ Day on November 20. This all-day celebration included grandparents being involved in P.E., music performances, library and art activities, computer lab exercises, and much more.

Pictured is Anneliese Hiezmann sharing a computer lesson with her grandmother.

2. The Leadership Class at Fort Zumwalt North High School raised $1,000 to support their turkey drive which resulted in the collection of 210 turkeys. Their efforts with this project awarded them as one of the selected winners in the 2012 Rams Effect contest. The class received 100 tickets to the Rams game on Sunday, December 2 against the 49ers. Pictured are the

students collecting the turkeys.

3. The fifth grade students at Emge Elementary School presented a Living History Museum on November 15. Each student researched a famous person from history who made a significant impact on the world and the student became that person. As visitors entered the museum, they were able to turn the wax figures “on” and watch them come to life and talk about themselves. Admission was free but donations were accepted to benefit the Ronald McDonald House. The students were able to collect $794.

Pictured is Ben Wilson portraying Christopher Columbus.

4. The students and staff at Ostmann Elementary School held their monthly “Bucket Filler” assembly to help students learn about good character traits.

They recognized students who displayed “Caring” during the month of November, as well as introduced the trait of “Giving” for the month of December.

To model the trait of caring in November, the Ostmann Student Council collected nearly 2200 canned goods and donated them to H.O.P.E. Ministries in St. Charles County in time for distribution for Thanksgiving. This month they displayed the character trait of “Giving” by collecting and donating 500 unwrapped children’s gifts to the local St. Charles County Salvation Army.

Captain Paul Ferguson, from the O’Fallon Corps, accepted the gifts and let the students know that there were just about 500 needy children in the St. Charles area that would benefit from their generosity and spirit of giving.

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www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • December 19, 2012

Timberland Soccer Player Crista Thompson Commits to Culver-Stockton College

School

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FZSD Student Signings

Timberland High School senior Crista Thompson has committed to play soccer for the Wildcats of Culver-Stockton College in Canton, MO. With her mother Donna and father Jim by her side, Thompson signed her National Letter of Intent at Timberland High School. “When I went for my visit, it just felt like home,” said the center and midfielder. “It’s small, and I already know a lot of the girls on the team.”

Thompson is a true student-athlete, and is a member of the National Honor Society while maintaining a 4.1 GPA. She has also been named to the All-Conference Academic Team for three consecutive years. Thompson plans on majoring in psychology with an emphasis on occupational therapy while at Culver-Stockton College.

Pictured L-R: (front row) Jim, Crista, and Donna Thompson (back row) Culver-Stockton Head Coach Tyler Tomlinson

Holocaust Survivor Shares his Story with Wentzville Middle School Students On Thursday, November 29, Holocaust survivor Ben Fainer shared his moving story with eighth grade students from Wentzville Middle School. In communication arts class these students are reading “Night”

by Nobel Peace Prize winner Elie Wiesel, based upon his story of survival while in the concentration camps. WMS teachers Marcus Hirsch and Scott Kiehl arranged for Mr. Fainer to visit with the students and share his own story. “My message is my experience,” said Mr. Fainer with a shrug. “I had the greatest mother in the world, and she was taken away from me when I was 9½ years old by the Nazis, and she perished in Auschwitz. So I remind these children that they should listen to their mother.”

Born Bendet Fajner in Poland in 1930, Mr. Fainer was separated from his mother and his siblings and sent to the Buchenwald concentration camp by the Nazis in 1939. He still bears the tattoo ID number 178873 on his left forearm. “To survive the camps you had to be able to walk and to work in the factory. If you couldn’t do either, you would soon be dead.” After more than six years spent in several different camps, he was finally liberated by the U.S. Army’s 26th Infantry Division in April of 1945. After the war, he lived in Ireland and Canada before settling in St. Louis. “The children in America, what they have is greater than any other children anywhere in the world. They have the world on a string.”

“I have done a lot of research on the Holocaust, but this was the first time I had heard a survivor speak,” said eighth grader Amy Smith. “It was really eye opening, and I thought he was very strong to talk about it after all he has been through, I was impressed. It’s something my kids won’t be able to experience, so I was very lucky today.” As students lined up to hug Mr. Fainer and have their picture taken with him after the assembly, student Hunter Mize said he had been moved by his presentation. “It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to listen to someone who survived, and is brave enough to tell us about his experiences. I think everyone should know what happened in WWII, how these people suffered, because what Hitler did was so evil and filled with such hatred. People need to know what the Jewish people went through in the Holocaust, www.ofallonnutrition.com so nothing like this could ever happen again.”

1. Lexi Theis, Fort Zumwalt North High tSchool senior, has signed with Lindenwood University to play softball. Pictured with Lexi (L-R), Kelly Quinones (FZN Coach), Joe Sutton (FZN Principal), Steve Siebert (FZN Coach), Ted Theis (father), Karen Theis (mother), Randy Jackson (FZN Coach), and Ted Hickey (FZN Activities Director).

2. Fort Zumwalt West High School senior, Kayla Grimm, has signed with the University of Arkansas at Little Rock for swimming. Pictured with Kayla are her parents, Susan and Steve Grimm. Pictured standing is Paul Boschert (FZW Activities Director), Mary Jane Wholer (Club Coach), Adam Grimm (brother), Erik Strom (Club Coach), Jeri Labrot (FZW Coach), Carey Gough (FZW Coach), Drew Spiegel (FZW Coach), and Neil Berry (FZW Principal).

3. Courtney Coe, Fort Zumwalt West High School senior, has signed to swim for the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. Pictured with Courtney are her parents, Theresa and David Coe. Pictured standing is Paul Boschert (FZW Activities Director), Mary Jane Wholer (Club Coach), Erik Strom (Club Coach), Jeri Labrot (FZW Coach), Carey Gough (FZW Coach), Drew Spiegel (FZW Coach), and Neil Berry FZW Principal).

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Business

December 19, 2012 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce Honors Outstanding Businesses and Business Leaders The O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize some of the outstanding businesses and leaders in our community.

For several months, chamber members were asked to submit nominations for the awardees. Earlier this month a panel of members discussed each of the nomJeff Arneson, recognized as the Sue inees and bestowed the Proost O’Fallon Chamber Person of the awards at the December Year 18 Awards luncheon of the O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce at the Trigg Banquet Center.

The Sue Proost O’Fallon Chamber Person of the Year is awarded to an O’Fallon Chamber member who has given back to the O’Fallon Community and the Chamber of Commerce through their leadership, dedication and volunteerism. Jeff Arneson is being recognized as

the Sue Proost O’Fallon Chamber Person of the Year.

Jeff and his wife Liddy are owners of JLJ Technology.

Jan’s Travel and Cruise is being recognized as the O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce 2012 Small Business of the Year because of their dedication to their clients and the community.

Mozingo Music is being honored as the O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year because of their service and dedication to the arts in O’Fallon as well as the business district of South Highway K. The O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize Progress West Healthcare Center as the 2012 Large Business of the Year. In 2012 Progress West celebrated their five year anniversary, to add to the celebration, the hospital was awarded several national awards including: the Top Performer Award, as well as five “5 Star” awards in the following areas: emergency department, outpatient, outpatient surgery, obstetrics inpatient services, and outpatient surgery unit/outpatient surgery. Progress West looks to make O’Fallon a healthier, safer community through several of their free programs like the Biggest Loser of St. Charles County and the Safety Stop for babies and children,

just to name a couple.

The O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize the St. Charles County Ambulance District as the 2012 Community Servant of the Year. The St. Charles County Ambulance District has a focused effort on serving the residents of St. Charles County outside of ambulatory needs. In its focus on the community the Ambulance District has partnered with State Farm for the Halloween Safety Program, hosted the Fill the Ambulance Toy Drive, Raised funds for Cardinal Glennon Children’s Medical Center and EMS Outreach through a charity poker tournament.

Being honored as the Ambassador of the Year is Brian Richardson. As the first line of contact with the membership of the O’Fallon Chamber the Ambassadors strengthen the membership and programming of the Chamber allowing members a welcoming atmosphere to build relationships and their business. Brian Richardson exemplifies the role of an Ambassador of the O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce.

For more information on any of our awardees, please contact the O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce at 636.240.1818.

Center for Patient Safety Welcomes Dr. Michael Handler as Medical Director Michael Handler, MD, vice president of medical affairs and chief medical officer for SSM St. Joseph Hospital West in Lake Saint Louis, Mo., has been appointed Medical Director for the Center for Patient Safety (CPS). The Center for Patient Safety is a Missouri-based, not-for-profit corporation dedicated to fostering change throughout the nation’s health care delivery systems and across the continuum of care.

lives and eliminating harm in health care settings must be a national priority. It adds up to better care and lower health care costs. I am excited to now work more closely with the Center to expand on and enhance its work with health care providers, professionals and patients.”

About Michael Handler, MD As vice president of medical affairs and chief medical officer at SSM St. Joseph Hospital West, Dr. Handler serves as liaison between the organized medical staff and administration, which advances the clinical practice of medicine for the campus. He also acts as the physician adviser to case management medicine for the campus.

Dr. Handler has been a physician in the state of Missouri since 1985. He operated a private Obstetrics and Gynecology practice in Kirkwood and Wildwood from 1989 through 2007. Dr. Handler also served as house obstetric physician for SSM St. Joseph Hospital of Kirkwood (SJHK). Additionally, he spent two years serving as SJHK’s medical director for quality improvement, during which time he implemented many successful quality improvement initiatives.

Dr. Handler earned his medical degree at University of MissouriKansas City School of Medicine.

He completed his internship and residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology in 1989 at St. Louis University Hospitals. He completed his Master of Medical Management degree from Tulane University in 2008 and is a fellow of the American College of Phywww.byerlyrv.com sician Executives.

As CPS Medical Director, Dr. Handler brings his expertise and advice to the Center’s initiatives and activities. Additionally, he will be a liaison between CPS and the physician community.

CPS Executive Director Becky Miller said Dr. Handler’s skills and experience as a physician and proponent for patient safety will enhance the Center’s resources and services.

“Dr. Handler has shown a deep appreciation and understanding of patient safety and how important it is to spread this culture across all health care settings,” Miller said. “Now, he is officially bringing his every day hands-on leadership and skills to the Center.”

Dr. Handler said working as CPS Medical Director is a natural extension of his clinical When shopping this and administrative work in the area of pasafety. holiday season... tient “To me, there are few more important issues in health care today,” he said. “Saving

Keep it in the “O”

e rs p p o h S li d a y o H lo n To: l a F ’ O f ity o C : m Fro

O’Fallon... Your Hometown

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www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • December 19, 2012

Mercy Breaks Ground Near Winghaven Community

L-R: Rose Mack, Council Member, City of O’Fallon; Donn Sorensen, president, Mercy East Region; John Hubert, president, Mercy Clinic East Region; Kurt Bahr, Member of Missouri House of Representatives; Charlie Rehm, chief administrative officer, Mercy East Region; Bill Hennessey, Mayor, City of O’Fallon; Sister Gayle Evans, director of mission services, Mercy East Region

Mercy is taking another step into St. Charles County with a groundbreaking that took place on Monday, December 10 for a new building near Winghaven, 2223 Technology Dr., in O’Fallon, Mo. The 16,500-square-foot facility will be home to Mercy Clinic pediatric and adult primary care doctors as well as lab and x-ray services. It is scheduled to open summer 2013.

“We want to make health care more convenient, and closer, for our patients in St. Charles County,” said Donn Sorensen, Mercy East region president. “This gathering is symbolic of our commitment to creating a new model of service and medical care in the communities we serve.”

This year, Mercy opened an outpatient center at Zumbehl Road in St. Charles and a Mercy Clinic office in Wentzville.

Mercy’s goal is to enhance health care in St. Charles, Warren and Lincoln counties and to bring services closer to patients and co-workers who live in the area. Approximately 2,200 Mercy coworkers live in the three counties, with some 50 Mercy Clinic physicians currently practicing in 10 locations. Mercy also has two urgent care facilities, an imaging center, rehabilitation services, an endoscopy center and a maternal and fetal health center in the region.

Business

Importance of Shopping Locally in St. Charles County With the holidays just around the corner, area officials are reminding residents and businesses about the importance of shopping locally because retail sales tax is a major source of funding for vital public services such as roads, parks, police, and more.

In St. Charles County, reliance on retail sales tax as a percentage of annual community budgets ranges from a low of 18 percent in Foristell to a high of 60 percent for County Government. Here is the impact for other local communities: St. Charles (21 percent), Weldon Spring (25 percent), Cottleville (31 percent), Wentzville (32 percent), O’Fallon (39 percent), St. Peters (40 percent), Lake Saint Louis (41 percent), and Dardenne Prairie (47 percent).

“Every time someone shops at a business in the community or eats out at a local restaurant, they are helping create local jobs and sharing the cost of the public services that have made St. Charles County a nationally recognized place to grow live, work, and play,” said Greg Prestemon, president and chief executive officer for the EDC of St. Charles County.

He said there is more than 19 million square feet of retail development in St. Charles County and new businesses are opening all the time. “From the new Sam’s Club in Wentzville to Five Guys Burgers and Fries in the Streets of St. Charles, shopping and dining options are abundant in St. Charles County,” he said.

Prestemon applauded efforts throughout the community to educate local residents about the importance of spending their money close to home. Two initiatives he mentioned were the “Keep it in the ‘O’” campaign from the city of O’Fallon and the “Shopping with the Saints – Saint Charles, Saint Peters & Saint Nicholas” program from the Greater St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce. “Shopping locally really does impact the quality of people’s daily lives. The more that’s understood and affects consumer habits, the better,” he said.

For more info about the local economy, visit www.edcscc.com or call the EDC of St. Charles County at 636.441.6880.

Merry Christmas

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December 19, 2012 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

SAINT CHARLES Christmas Traditions Welcome to St. Charles Christmas Traditions!

Information from www.stcharleschristmas.com

Where Christmas Past Comes to Life Close your eyes and listen to the sounds of holiday

from around the world. Over 30 characters have joined music from the Victorian Carolers, and the Fife & Drum in the festivities, each wearing hand crafted clothing Corps. Smell the roasting of chestnuts in the air. Capture representing their heritage and carrying trading cards in your mind a time in America when life was simpler, to give to visitors as a keepsake. Shop and dine along the brick-lined streets festively decorated with greenery and and Christmas was elegant and magical.

This holiday celebration is staged in a charming vil- red bows.

The South Main Preservation Society first created this lage on the Missouri River known as St. Charles. The truly unique family event in the early 1970s, while an street comes alive with Christmas Legends and Santas effort was underway to revitalize the South Main Historic District. Now almost 40 years later, Christmas Traditions remains a Look for Our Advertisers favorite festival, attracting a wide range of Frenchtown Heritage Museum - 1121 North 2nd Street visitors to our area. Funding for this event The Glass Workbench - 318 South Main Street is provided by the City of Saint Charles, via The Grand Opera House - 311 North Main Street the Greater Saint Charles Convention & Jansens Clocks - 608 South Main Street Visitors Bureau.

Little O’s Soda Shop - 125 North Main Street For a complete schedule and many St. Charles Chamber of Commerce - 2201 1st Capitol Drive more local events, please visit www.stSt. Charles Convention Center - 1 Convention Center Plaza charleschristmas.com.

St. Charles Convention & Visitors Bureau - 230 South Main Street

The Santa Parade

Saturdays and Sundays during Festival 1:30 p.m.

Begins at 1000 S. Main Street and ends in Berthold Square at 200 S. Main Street Enjoy the pageantry of a live parade led by the Lewis & Clark Fife & Drum Corps, and topped off with Santa and Mrs. Claus in a horse-drawn carriage. Follow the procession to Berthold Square for caroling and a short, family-friendly program. Enter your child to win a ride with Santa at historicstcharles.com.

Breakfast with Santa

Saturdays, December 22 • 9 a.m.

Mother-In-Law House, 500 S. Main Street Come enjoy breakfast at the beautiful Mother-In-Law House Restaurant for an up-close-and-personal visit with Santa. Bring your holiday wish list. Plus, don’t forget the camera to capture all the holiday fun.

Doors open at 9 a.m., and breakfast is served at 9:30 a.m. Parking is free on the street and nearby lots.

Tickets are $15 for children (12 and under) $18 for adults and reservations are required. But hurry! Only a limited number of tickets are available.

To order tickets, contact Karen Godfrey at 636.255.6155.

“A Clueless Christmas” A Comical Interactive Christmas Mystery

Dinner Show – December 23 • 6 p.m.

Grand Opera House Banquet Center and Event Center , 311 N. Main Street Ever wish you could be the one to figure out whodunnit? Come join us for this mysterious show with attendees such as Ms. Scarlet, Col. Mustard, Mr. Green, and Mrs. Peacock. Although Mr. Body may be the first to be murdered, anyone could be next! If you guess the true murderer, you could leave with your own fabulous Christmas gift. We’ll give you a hint... it wasn’t Col. Mustard in the Library with the Candlestick!

Dinner show tickets are $62.50 per person. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and dinner is served at 6 p.m. Parking is free on the street and nearby lots.

To order tickets, contact Karen Godfrey at 636.255.6155.

Decorations

Saint Charles is one of America’s great Historic Districts.

There is no other place quite

www.historicstcharles.com

www.jansensclocks.com

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • December 19, 2012

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SAINT CHARLES Christmas Traditions that Santa will join the parade from 1:15 to 2:30 p.m. each Saturday and Sunday during the festival.

Carriage Rides

Saturdays during Festival • 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Sundays during Festival • 12 - 5 p.m.

Monday, December 24 • 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Board the carriage at the Tourism Center at 230 S. Main Street. Take a relaxing carriage ride along Main Street during the holiday season (weather permitting – not operating during parade). Rides are $5 per person.

To reserve a carriage for a special event or evening during the holiday season, please call 636.398.4123.

Trains on Main

Photos courtesy of Karen Godfrey

like South Main Street, which features 10 blocks of historic buildings, some dating as far back as the late 1700s.

For Christmas Traditions, we pull out all the stops to create a festive setting the whole family can enjoy. With more than 10,000 feet of fresh greenery, 150 wreaths, 1,200 hand-tied red velvet bows, and thousands of white lights in the trees and on the buildings, you just can’t help but get caught up in the holiday spirit.

In the daytime, the crisp reds and greens provide a colorful backdrop as you walk the brick streets enjoying all that Christmas Traditions has to offer. And in the evening, the white lights make a nighttime stroll or drive down Main Street one of St. Louis’ best free light displays.

The holiday decor on Main Street is just one more way that Christmas Past Comes To Life in Saint Charles during Christmas Traditions.

Photos with Santa

Fridays during the Festival • 6:30 - 9 p.m.

Saturdays during Festival • 11 a.m. - 5 p.m..

Sundays during Festival 12 - 5 p.m.

222 North Main Street in tandem w/ Trains on Main Come visit Santa and his elves, and make sure he knows what you would like for Christmas!

For a nominal fee you can purchase professional photos that come in a gold-foil-trimmed frame. Additional photos in varying sizes can be ordered online. P and Santa’s going to put in a few extra hours this month…you can catch him 6:30-9 p.m. on Friday nights and yes, the Trains on Main display will be open for viewing, as well (and it’s FREE). Please note

Now thru December 24, Wednesday thru Friday – Noon - 3 p.m., Saturday and Sunday – Noon - 5 p.m.

Hosted by Frenchtown Heritage Museum. A festive train display including a Victorian winter scene and various other themes. Admission is free, however donations are accepted. For more information, call 636-7242106.

ing around the fire.

Kissing Ball

Kister Park Gazebo, 400 block of S. Main Street A special bundle of mistletoe, holly, ribbon and evergreens mark the perfect spot for you to fall in love or rekindle the joys of yesteryear.

Gingerbread Village

Festival Hours until December 22 at 6 p.m.

Main Street Church, 116 N. Main Street Visit the candy filled world of Gingerbread Village. All gingerbread houses from the decorating contest will be on display for your holiday enjoyment. For more information, visit www.churchonmain.com/gingerbreadold.

Santa Send-off

Monday, December 24 • 1:30 p.m.

Begins at 1000 S. Main Street and ends in Berthold Square at the corner of First Capitol Drive and S. Main Street.

Don’t miss the opportunity to send one final wave and cheer Santa on as he heads back to the North Pole for the big night!

Sleigh Bell Singers

Fridays during Festival Various Restaurants on N. Main Street Our own Sleigh Bell Singers join us for a night of merriment singing the songs of the 1930s and 1940s while stopping at various restaurants in the historic North Main Street district.

Marshmallow Roast

Fridays during Festival • 7 p.m.

Chestnut Roasters’ Fire Pit, Between 700 and 800 blocks of S. Main Street Join some of your favorite Christmas Traditions characters at the Chestnut Roasters’ fire to enjoy roasting complimentary marshmallows and listening to holiday story-tell-

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Learn & Play

SUDOKU:

December 19, 2012 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

Fill in the blank squares in the grid, making sure that every row, column and 3-by3 box includes all the digits 1 through 9.

Oldest Pick:

“Return to the Willows”

Community News is proud to offer our readers “Book Buzz.” This column will feature great books for children in three categories: Youngest Pick: early childhood to the first or second grade, Middle Pick: elementary school children, and Oldest Pick: middle school children. Enjoy!

Reprinted with permission, Missourian Publishing Company.

Copyright 2012.

Hold onto your hats. If you loved “Wind in the Willows”

by Kenneth Grahame, you’ll rejoice that Toad, Mole and Water Rat are back – along with some new friends in “Return to the Willows” by Jacqueline Kelly.

The action begins on the river on a trip with Mole and Water Rat, sailing along as pleasantly as can be. That is until Rat springs some news on Mr. Mole. Their buddy Toad, the reckless racecar ruffian, has a new means of transportation.

With that, Toad floats high above them in a yellow balloon.

Oh, bother, Toad is on another manic kick – if it isn’t one thing, it’s another. Madcap escapades abound, concluding in a swashbuckling finale.

Gorgeous, detailed paintings by Clint Young bring the characters and settings to life and assure that this sequel will become a classic in its own right.

Facts About Christmas See solution on page 21

Courtesy of www.christmasfacts.org

• The first commercial Christmas card was produced and sold in London in 1843.

• Americans send an estimated 1.5 billion Christmas cards each year.

• The song “Jingle Bells” was copyrighted in 1857. “Deck The Halls” is even older from the late 18th century.

• A large Christmas tree is traditionally placed every year in Rockefeller Center (Manhattan, New York City). The tallest tree placed in Rockefeller Center was a 100 foot Norway spruce from Connecticut in 1999.

• The most expensive Christmas tree was

decorated in the United Arab Emirates in 2010 at an estimated cost of over $11 million.

• The practice of Christmas gift giving was once banned by the Catholic Church. It was suspected that this tradition had roots in Paganism.

• Americans buy 25-30 million real trees and 8-12 million artificial trees to decorate each year.

• There are two towns in the United States with the name of Santa Claus but only one named North Pole. They are located in Georgia, Indiana and Alaska, respectively.

This Weeks Shelter: PALS - Pets Alone Sanctuary 4287 Hwy 47, West Hawk Point, MO 63349 • 636-388-1818 • www.Pal-Pets.com If you’ve adopted a new family member that you saw in Community News, send us a picture of you and your new pal. Also include a brief story about your pet’s background and how they’re doing now. We’d love to share your happy story with other readers!

Community News, 2139 Bryan Valley Commercial Dr., O’Fallon, MO 63366 or cnews@ centurytel.net.

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The U.S. Humane Society estimates 6 to 8 million dogs and cats enter shelters each year, and 3 to 4 million are euthanized. Please do your part to control overpopulation and to limit the number of unwanted animals. SPAY AND NEUTER YOUR PETS!

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • December 19, 2012

Movie

“Hitchcock”

Photo courtesy of Fox Searchlight

Anthony Hopkins turns in a carefully-nuanced performance as the title character in “Hitchcock,” a love letter to the legendary Alfred Hitchcock. Set during the filming of the director’s greatest triumph, this motion picture offers a fascinating look at the man whose work continues to haunt his fans.

As the story opens, the studios and the press corps are quietly pressuring a sixty-ish Alfred Hitchcock to step aside for younger talent. Desperate to find his next film, he sees a press clipping about the real-life inspiration for Robert Bloch’s novel “Psycho.” Intrigued, he reads the book and, upon finishing it, decides to make the film adaptation.

At the time, Hitchcock is under contract at Paramount Pictures, but the bean counters aren’t willing to bankroll a risky project like “Psycho.” The director and his wife Alma (a wonderful Helen Mirren) mortgage their house and risk their entire livelihood to finance the picture. Alma is afraid, though, that her husband will go chasing after his new leading lady Janet Leigh (Scarlett Johansson) as he has done so many times in the past.

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By Steve Bryan - Rated: PG-13

A brilliant character study from director Sacha Gervasi, “Hitchcock” is a quiet film that will make a bold move as the Oscar ceremony draws closer.

Transformed by makeup into the Master of Suspense, Anthony Hopkins captures the essential elements of the character. Hopkins also displays Hitchcock’s wicked sense of humor that came out in films like “The Trouble with Harry” as well as his television anthology series.

Helen Mirren deserves a standing ovation for her portrayal of Alma Hitchcock, the great director’s wife. “Hitchcock” shows her sometimes forgotten contributions to her husband’s success, especially on the set of “Psycho.” Frustrated by Hitch’s weakness for his leading ladies, Alma is shown having a potential dalliance with another writer, but she always remains faithful to Hitch.

Though she doesn’t get much screen time, Scarlett Johansson does a nice job as Janet Leigh, the actress forever linked with “Psycho.” Johansson definitely captures the mannerisms and look of the character, as does Jessica Biel as Vera Miles. Neither actress can hold a candle to Helen Mirren in this production, though.

Though it is easy to overlook his contributions to the story, James D’Arcy turns in a solid performance as Anthony Perkins, the actor who brings Norman Bates to life. D’Arcy definitely studied his real-life alter ego because his mannerisms and posture are frighteningly close to how Perkins behaved in public.

“Hitchcock” is a must-see for any film lover, especially those who enjoyed the Master of Suspense and his films. Though it is a loving tribute to the man, this movie does not shy away from his flaws or weaknesses.

“Hitchcock,” rated PG-13 for some violent images, sexual content, and thematic material, currently is playing in theaters.

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Etc.

December 19, 2012 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

Joe Morice

“Over the Fence”

Editorial

Withdrawal and Shiny Toys I’ve been riding motorcycles for a number of years and I usually enjoy it. I included ‘usually’ because if I get caught in the rain, only a masochist could enjoy it. In a vehicle with four wheels, losing traction usually only means sliding around a bit unless you’re one of the maniacs who believe driving 90 in a storm is great fun. With a motorcycle on two wheels, losing traction means you better have good health insurance.

After riding all over the good old US of A and learning the weather Gods are more fickle than a teenaged girl with six boyfriends, I threw in the proverbial towel. I sold the motorcycle. I had already seen and experienced everything in the bi-state area from years of riding around in it. Unless I took a trip across the country, it became a tad boring. Taking a bike trip in the winter is a bit dicey at best, weather wise. I seldom ride when the temperature drops below fifty degrees. I never believed Santa doesn’t have a top on his sleigh, either.

Being without a motorcycle lasted about 24 hours before my boy-toy radiator overheated. I stared at the empty space in the garage and my head started spinning. My heart pounded. I felt as if I was tied to a railroad track and heard a fast freight approaching. I held my head and screamed obscenities at the empty space where the bike once sat. I had often heard, “He with the most toys wins.” I hadn’t heard the one with the least has withdrawal symptoms.

I drove past a car dealer and saw a black Mustang GT convertible sitting in front.

Its shiny paint glittered in the sunlight. It was beautiful. It was powerful. It was fast. I could put the top down on nice days or put it up if it rained. I didn’t even need a helmet!

I careened into the lot, ran to the Mustang, got on my knees and hugged it. I caressed the horse emblem. It whinnied.

A salesman walked by and asked me if I was sick. He offered to call an ambulance.

I hugged his leg and gasped, “Where do I sign?”

It soon sat in my garage where the motorcycle once rested. I checked on it every hour or so to make sure it was happy.

Suddenly it hit me.

I had bought another black car after swearing I would never buy another one. They are too hot when parked in the summer sun because black paint soaks up heat.

They’re also too hard to keep clean. A black car is beautiful. A dirty black car is like a fashion model who suddenly turned into a bag lady on her honeymoon.

I looked in the bathroom mirror at my miserable face.

I saw a dummy that wouldn’t ride a motorcycle in the rain because he might crash and burn who then bought a black Mustang and won’t drive it in the rain because it’s too hard to keep clean.

I called my old friend, the psychologist and blubbered my tale of woe as if he were a famous guru on a mountaintop. I begged him for help. “I think I lost my cottonpicking mind,” I shrieked.

After several minutes of listening to me sob and beg, he finally said, “You certainly do need help but first let me ask, ‘Do you read bumper stickers?’”

I said, “Wha…huh?”

He said, “If you do, you probably saw that popular one that said, “You can’t fix stupid.” He hung up.

Arrrrgggghhhh!!!!

Text Alerts and an Improved App Put MoDOT Traveler Information at Your Fingertips Text Alerts MoDOT has added a text alert option to its popular “E-update” email subscription system. This means travelers can get urgent road information sent straight to their mobile device.

“Text alerts from our real-time traffic services -- Kansas City Scout and Gateway Guide -- are popular in Missouri’s metropolitan areas,” said Matt Hiebert, MoDOT production manager. “Now motorists in the rest of the state can also benefit from these notifications.”

Just visit www.modot.org/eupdates to sign up for the service. You don’t even need a smartphone ... just one that can receive text messages.

Signing up is easy. If you already have an E-update account, just login and add your provider information and cellphone number. That’s it! If you’re new to Eupdates, create an account and choose which counties, routes and regions you want to know about.

Current E-update subscribers just need to go to the sign-in page and supply their cellphone number and provider name. Their subscriptions will carry over.

When there’s trouble on a road or region you’ve added, whether it’s weather-related or an incident, our staff will send notifications to everyone who’s signed up.

You’ll get a short message telling you what’s going on.

And if you want to opt out of the service later, just log in to your account and remove your cellphone information.

A MoDOT E-update account is required and data charges may apply depending on your cellphone package.

Even if you don’t opt in for the text alert option, E-updates can keep you informed of road conditions, project information and other transportation-related info through email.

MoDOT App MoDOT has upgraded its free iPhone and Android Traveler Information app so motorists can get road condition information faster and easier. The upgrade addresses feedback from users on the original Traveler Information app MoDOT launched last year and adds features to make the tool even more useful.

“We’ve made the app easier to navigate and added other features users requested,” said Matt Hiebert, MoDOT customer relations production manager. “We’ve improved the pinch and zoom function and added the ability to create a personalized route list so users can quickly see the routes they travel most often.”

“My Routes” lets users add the routes they travel most to a text report. That way, they can view these roads and highways with a single tap on the screen rather than having to navigate to a frequently traveled region.

The Traveler Information App will also work with iPads and Android-compatible tablets, another feature requested by users.

MoDOT reminds everyone who uses the app to check road conditions before they leave for their destinations.

“Our traveler map app lets you check road conditions and work zones anywhere you go - but don’t use it while you’re driving,” said Hiebert. “Distracted driving is a leading contributor to traffic crashes, so check the map before you go. Put the phone down, and concentrate on the road.”

To download the new Traveler Information app, just visit the iPhone or Android app stores and type “MoDOT” in the search field.

Users of the earlier iPhone and Android versions will receive a prompt screen that links them to the app stores of their respective device. From there, they can download the new version.

For information on road conditions across the state, safe traveling tips, and other winter weather information, visit www.modot.org.

MoDOT reminds everyone that distracted driving is a major conwww.aaaheatingcooling.com tributor to traffic crashes and this feature should NEVER be used while driving.

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • December 19, 2012

Editorial

Etc.

17

Shelly Schneider

Snow Cones Anyone?

Volunteer. The word, according to the dictionary, means a person who gives of himself or herself to service without the obligation to do so. I love volunteerism, and over the years Jim and I have worked to instill that spirit into our children. It’s true…20 percent of the people do 80 percent of the work, but I love to volunteer. As you ponder New Years resolutions, please consider giving back to your church, school or community. I began to see the light at the end of the tunnel for school volunteering a couple of years ago, so for Christopher’s senior year I decided to dive into the Grad Night Committee. We’re a small but dedicated group of men and women working to keep high school seniors happy and safe on the most important night of their lives.

My first real school-related volunteer experience came along when my oldest was in kindergarten. We lived in Quincy, Ill. at the time. Each year the school produced Arts in the Park, a one-day fundraiser for the fine arts program.

The call for volunteers arrived one day via Christopher’s backpack. It takes more than just a few people to run this extravaganza, and so there were more than a few opportunities. I could work at the Book Fair. No, better not. I’d be too tempted to buy everything in sight. I could work at an arts and crafts booth. No. I recalled another year’s Arts in the Park and the disproportionate amount of paint that wound up on my kids compared to their art projects. I really wasn’t into paint.

Then I saw it. My eyes were drawn to that magical word…food! I could help out with the food. There are more reasons than I can count not to help with the food, the biggest one being that I would end up acting like a contest judge at a county fair, sampling just about everything. Nevertheless, I signed my name on the dotted line, and offered to serve food during the third shift, 3:30 - 5 p.m.

Closer to the actual event, I received a call from the food chairperson. Could I please work in the snow cone booth?

“At least it’s not the cotton candy booth,” I muttered to myself after I agreed to dish out the frozen treat.

Over the years I’ve come to realize that I’m not a gooey person. You know, the kind of person who likes to dig in the mud, plant things, knead bread with her bare hands,

Recipe:

or finger paint. It’s just not me. For the most part, I like to keep my hands clean, and the cotton candy booth would have been a sticky, messy, and thoroughly unenjoyable experience.

We were truly blessed on that particular Sunday, weather wise.

Oh, the clouds were out in full force on that day, but the rain stayed away. The temperature, though cool, was bearable.

“This is perfect,” I muttered to myself as I trekked my way across the park to the snow cone booth. “No one will want snow cones with the temperature this cool.”

One of these days I’ll learn to keep my predictions to myself, and not verbalize them.

I met my partner, Darrell, and the previous snow cones gurus gave us a 30-second lesson on how to crush ice, squirt the flavoring and where the money was to be kept.

“Easy,” I thought to myself. But that was before I glanced down at the hands of my predecessor. She was covered up to her elbows in red and orange snow cone syrup.

Eeeeeew. I didn’t know which was the lesser of two evils: scooping the ice into the cup (which could turn your hands blue inside five minutes on this chilly day), or dispensing the flavoring. I decided red and orange by artificial flavoring was better than blue

by Mother Nature.

“When you run out of syrup, you’ll have to close down,” added the nice lady who was ending her shift.

“Darrell, if you tell, I’ll deny it,” I whispered, “but I’m thinking that there might be an unfortunate mishap with this last bottle of syrup.”

He laughed, but I bet deep down he was hoping I’d really do it.

My diabolical plan never came to fruition. Darrell ran out of snow cone cups within an hour. My left hand was covered in syrup, and my white tennis shoes were now orange and red.

What I wouldn’t give to have that third shift snow cone booth back. I’m sure Grad Night will have a third shift spot available for chaperones, but instead of 3:30 to 5 p.m., it will be 2 to 5 a.m. I won’t offer, but if given that particular time slot, I won’t complain, either. Volunteering for my children’s school functions has been a joy and a privilege.

Fifteen-Minute Holiday Treats (Family Features) Holiday time means cookie time, but with the demands of the holiday season it’s not always possible to spend hours baking. This year, try fast and fun holiday cookie-inspired Chex Party Mix recipes that bring your favorite flavors to life in just 15-minutes in the microwave.

Iced Pumpkin Chex® Mix Prep: 15 min • Start to Finish: 15 min • Makes: 14 servings cup each) Ingredients: - 2 cups Cinnamon Chex® cereal - 2 cups Wheat Chex® cereal - 2 cups Honey Nut Chex® cereal - 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds - 1/4 cup brown sugar - 1/4 cup canned pumpkin - 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice - 1/4 cup butter - 2 teaspoons vanilla Cream Cheese Icing: - 1 square (1 oz) premium white chocolate - 1 ounce cream cheese, softened Directions: 1. In large microwavable bowl, mix cereals and pumpkin seeds.

2. Line cookie sheet with waxed paper or foil.

3. In small bowl, mix brown sugar, pumpkin

and pumpkin pie spice; set aside.

refrigerator.

4. In 2-cup microwaveable measuring cup, microwave butter on High about 30 seconds or until melted. Add pumpkin mixture; microwave about 30 seconds, or until hot. Stir in vanilla.

Tip: For easy drizzling, spoon the glaze into a small food-storage bag. Snip off one bottom corner and squeeze over the cereal mixture.

Sugar Cookie Chex Party Mix and Iced Pumpkin Chex Mix are delicious, fun and easy to make, whether you are entertaining or gift giving. For a quick and easy hostess gift, line seaso.nal tins with tissue paper and fill them up with your favorite mix. Or, try packaging your mix in cellophane bags or festive cupcake cups, and then decorate them with festive ribbons and stickers for a fun holiday party treat.

Get more 15-minute Chex Party Mix recipes and entertaining tips at www.chexpartymixchange.com.

5. Pour pumpkin-butter mixture over cereal and seeds, stirring until evenly coated. Microwave uncovered on High 5 minutes or until mixture begins to brown, stirring every minute. Spread on waxed paper to cool.

6. While mix is cooling, melt white chocolate in microwave on High 30 seconds; stir in softened cream cheese. Drizzle over top of mix; refrigerate 5 minutes or until set. Store in airtight container in

www.something-printed.com www.facebook.com/somethingprinted

Sugar Cookie Chex® Party Mix Prep: 15 min • Start to Finish: 15 min • Makes: 14 servings (1/2 cup each) Ingredients: - 6 cups Rice Chex® cereal - 1/4 cup butter or margarine - 1/4 cup granulated sugar - 2 tablespoons corn syrup - 2 teaspoons pure vanilla - 1/4 cup powdered sugar - 1 ounce white baking chocolate or 1/4 cup vanilla milk chips - 1 to 2 teaspoons colored edible glitter or sugar sprinkles Directions: 1. Measure cereal in large microwaveable bowl. Line a cookie sheet with waxed paper or foil.

2. In 2-cup microwavable measuring cup, microwave butter uncovered on High 30 seconds

or until melted. Add sugar and corn syrup; microwave uncovered on High 30 seconds until mixture is heated and can be stirred smooth.

Stir in vanilla. Pour over cereal, stirring until evenly coated.

ply powdered sugar, pour sugar into a large freezer zip-type bag. After removing snack mix from microwave, let stand in bowl 1 to 2 minutes to cool, then pour into bag and shake.

3. Microwave uncovered on high 2 minutes, stirring after1 minute. Sprinkle with powdered sugar; mix well.

4. Spread on waxed paper or foil. Microwave white chocolate on High 30 seconds or until it can be stirred smooth; drizzle over top; sprinkle with edible glitter or colored candies.

Tip: For an easy way to ap-

w w w. p a y n e f a m i l y h o m e s . c o m

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Etc.

December 19, 2012 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

Sports

Gary Baute

Family Arena Bring Some Cowboys To Town ***The Floor Will be Covered in Dirt Lone Star Rodeo Company will come to St. Charles on January 4 & 5 to provide quality family entertainment in one great place.

Both evenings promise to be fast-paced action, thrilling rides, exhilarating spills along with the antics of the rodeo clowns.

Cowboys from all over the surrounding states and some home town favorites will compete in many great rodeo contest events.

Bareback Riding, Saddle Bronc Riding, Steer Wrestling, Calf Roping, Cowgirl’s Breakaway Roping, Team Roping, Cowgirl’s Barrel Racing, and the much loved Bull Riding! For more info www.FamilyArena.com ~~~Ride ‘em cowboy Lindenwood Basketball Season Is Underway ***Lions and Lady Lions Hit the Hardwood The men’s and women’s basketball teams are underway at Lindenwood University and have played the first two MIAA contests in the history of Lindenwood basketball.

Under the direction of Brad Soderberg, the Lindenwood men’s basketball team is currently 4-3 and 0-2 in the MIAA. Both conference contests have gone to overtime with the Lions coming up just short in both games.

Senior Alex Bazzell is leading the Lions offensively as he is averaging 18.1 points through the first seven games. Richie Thompson is leading the squad in rebounds, snatching 8.4 per game.

The Lindenwood Lady Lions, under the direction of Tony Francis, are 1-6 on the season and 0-2 in the MIAA. Lindenwood traveled to Northwest Missouri for its inaugural MIAA game in school history and fell to the Bearcats 69-40 after being down just two at the half. On Saturday, December 8, the Lady Lions hosted No. 11 Pittsburg State. The Lady Lions were down by as many as 19 before a late second half run brought the team within six of the nationally ranked squad. The Lady Lions ultimately fell 82-65.

Lindenwood is led by freshman Tori Kuhn, who is averaging 11.7 points and 8.6 rebounds per game.

Both teams will travel to Missouri S & T on December 19 for a double-header non-conference match-up. ~~~Thanks to Jen Lawson, Sports Information-Graduate Assistant of Lindenwood

Missouri Monsters Start Indoor Football ***Team to Have a Lot of Local Talent Your Missouri Monsters (UILFmonsters.com) will take the turf at the Family Arena in St. Charles for their first home game Friday March 8.

Head Coach John Parker The past two tryouts have brought some very talented athletes to the field to strut their stuff.

Head Coach John Parker will lead the new team that will Phil Staback. Photos by Gary B. be playing in the Ultimate Indoor Football League (UIFLfootball.com). Greg Moore aka Chief Greg Moore aka Chief will be helping the coaching responsibilities with his vast background with the St. Louis Bulldogs outdoor football team.

Local talent formerly from Lindenwood University and who has played in the IFL is quarterback Phil Staback. ~~~Football Back At The Family Arena Rams Herd The Buffalo Bills To Notch Three Wins In A Row ***Rams 15-Bills 12 The St. Louis Rams continued to improve under the tutelage of veteran coach Jeff Fisher as they won in a defensive battle at Buffalo.

Quarterback Sam Bradford tossed a touch down pass with running back Steven Jackson (SJ39) rushing for the other score. The team was successful on a two-point conversion that set up an exiting finish.

Something to watch: In the near future, Jackson will surpass 10,000 rushing yards in his career only accomplished by a handful of greats. He is also creeping toward a 1,000 season again. Will we see #39 on the field in a Rams uniform next year? ~~~A long time coming

Keep Electric Safety in Mind this Holiday Season Cuivre River Electric Cooperative reminds everyone to be safe with electricity during the holidays. Cuivre River Safety Coordinator Doug Bagby says, “A little thoughtful planning and common sense will help everyone enjoy the holidays safely.” This festive season offers some unique potential electrical hazards.

“Remember to thoroughly check electrically operated decorations before plugging them into an outlet,” Bagby adds.

“Many accidents may be prevented by just following a few simple safety steps.”

Cuivre River Electric Cooperative offers these tips to help area residents have a safe and happy holiday season: • Use waterproof outdoor cords for outdoor lights and decorations. Keep con-

www.stlpremier.com

nections above ground and out of water or snow, and remember to use a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protected outlet.

• Remember to keep indoor lights and decorations inside.

• Don’t overload electric outlets.

• Check decorative lights for frayed wiring and loose connections.

• Look for the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) mark on decorative lights and other electrical items. The UL mark shows that these models have been tested and meet UL’s rigorous safety requirements.

• Watch for sharp edges that could cut wiring if attaching lights to gutters.

Avoid using staples, nails or tacks to secure lights.

• Resist connecting multiple extension cords together. If needed, purchase a longer extension cord to prevent a possible fire hazard. Avoid placing extension cords under rugs or in high traffic areas.

• Unplug decorative lighting when leaving home and before going to bed.

• Keep Christmas trees away from heating sources and electrical appliances.

• If decorating outside, remember to always look up for power lines and maintain at least a 10-foot safety zone away from lines.

• Use ladders safely when installing lights or decorations. Secure the ladder base on solid ground or level with flat, solid boards. Be sure to have a helper hold and secure the ladder.

Please contact Cuivre River Electric Cooperative at 636.528.8261, 636.695.4700, 800.392.3709 or visit www.cuivre.com if you have questions or concerns about electric safety during the holidays.

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • December 19, 2012

Health

19

Watch for the 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease Over the Holiday Season Early Detection Empowers Families to Plan for the Future The holiday season is a time families gather and right word. developing Alzheimer’s disease begins to increase sigspend quality time with loved ones. It is also a time 7. Misplacing things and losing the ability to re- nificantly,” said Cheryl Wingbermuehle, Family Serthat can raise questions about the cognitive health of trace steps. A person with Alzheimer’s disease may vices Director at the Alzheimer’s Association St. Louis aging family members. With Alzheimer’s disease in put things in unusual places. They may lose things Chapter. “Knowing the warning signs of Alzheimer’s particular, it is important to know what is and what and be unable to go back over their steps to find them and getting diagnosed early is vital to receiving the is not normal aging. Below is a list of warning signs again. Sometimes, they may accuse others of stealing. best possible care and support.” along with examples of normal aging. If you notice This may occur more frequently over time.

Early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or other deany of the warning signs in your aging family memWhat’s typical: Misplacing things from time to time, mentias is an important step in getting appropriate bers, it is recommended that you see a doctor. such as a pair of glasses or the remote control. treatment, care and support services. Additional benAlzheimer’s Association 10 Warning Signs of Al8. Decreased or poor judgment. People with Al- efits to early diagnosis are as follows: zheimer’s zheimer’s may experience changes in judgment or Benefits of an early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s dis1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life. One of the decision-making. For example, they may use poor ease most common signs of Alzheimer’s is memory loss, judgment when dealing with money, giving large • Benefit from treatments that may improve sympespecially forgetting recently learned information. amounts to telemarketers. They may pay less attention toms and help maintain a level of independence lonOthers include forgetting important dates or events; to grooming or keeping themselves clean. ger asking for the same information over and over; relying What’s typical: Making a bad decision once in a • Have more time to plan for the future on memory aides (e.g., reminder notes or electronic while.

• Increase chances of successfully finding a clinidevices) or family members for things they used to 9. Withdrawal from work or social activities. A cal drug trial through Alzheimer’s Association Trialhandle on one’s own. person with Alzheimer’s may start to remove them- Match, helping advance research What’s typical: Sometimes forgetting names or ap- selves from hobbies, social activities, work projects or • Participate in decisions about their care, transporpointments, but remembering them later. sports. They may have trouble keeping up with a fa- tation, living options, financial and legal matters 2. Challenges in planning or solving problems. vorite sports team or remembering how to complete • Develop a relationship with doctors and care partSome people may experience changes in their ability a favorite hobby. They may also avoid being social be- ners to develop and follow a plan or work with numbers. cause of the changes they have experienced.

• Benefit from care and support services, making it They may have trouble following a familiar recipe or What’s typical: Sometimes feeling weary of work, easier for them and their family to manage the disease keeping track of monthly bills. They may have diffi- family and social obligations.

If you have questions about Alzheimer’s or a reculty concentrating and take much longer to do things 10. Changes in mood and personality. The mood lated dementia, call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 than they did before. and personalities of people with Alzheimer’s can Helpline, at 800.272.3900. Local experts are available What’s typical: Making occasional errors when bal- change. They can become confused, suspicious, de- to take calls from individuals concerned with their ancing a checkbook. pressed, fearful or anxious. They may be easily upset own cognitive health as well as from family members 3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, at home, at work, with friends or in places where they and friends who may be concerned about a loved one at work or at leisure. People with Alzheimer’s of- are out of their comfort zone. and are seeking resources. ten find it hard to complete daily tasks. Sometimes, What’s typical: Developing very specific people may have trouble driving to a familiar location, ways of doing things and becoming irrimanaging a budget at work or remembering the rules table when a routine is disrupted. of a favorite game.

“Last year, the first wave of baby boomers What’s typical: Occasionally needing help to use the begins turning 65 – the age that your risk of settings on a microwave or to record a television show.

4. Confusion with time or place. People with Alzheimer’s can lose track of dates, seasons and the passage of time. They may have trouble understanding something if it is not happening immediately. Sometimes they may forget where www.drmarcycooper.com they are or how they got there. www.powershealthmart.com What’s typical: Getting confused about the day of the week but figuring it out later.

5. Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships. For some people, having vision problems is a sign of Alzheimer’s. They may have difficulty reading, judging distance and determining color or contrast. In terms of perception, they may pass a mirror and think someone else is in the room. They may not realize they are the person in the mirror.

What’s typical: Vision changes related to cataracts.

6. New problems with words in speaking or writing.

People with Alzheimer’s may have trouble following or joining a conversation. They may stop in the middle of a conversation and have no idea how to continue or they may repeat themselves. They may struggle with vocabulary, have problems finding the right word or call things by the wrong name (e.g., calling a “watch” a “hand-clock”).

What’s typical: Sometimes www.innovarehealth.com having trouble finding the www.stpetersmo.net

20

What’s Happening

CHURCH December 23: Cantata and Service of Solace at Trinity Episcopal Church Free. 318 S. Duchesne, St. Charles. 9:15 a.m. Holy Eurcharist Rite I when the choir will perform the Emmanual Cantata. 11 a.m. Brunch and Hanging of the Greens. 4 p.m.

Service of Solace to comfort those facing a loss or misfortune with prayers, words of comfort from Scripture, lighting of candles and singing.

Fellowship and cookies afterwards. All are welcome. Info: 636.949.0160, www.trinity-stcharles.org or Facebook.

December 19, 2012 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

Services at Trinity 318 S. Duchesne in St. Charles.

Dec. 24: 5 p.m. Pageant and Communion; 10:30 p.m. Carols with Choir; 11 p.m. Festival Holy Eucharist. Dec. 25: 11 a.m.

Carols and Communion. Dec. 26, 6:30 p.m. Holy Eucharist, Christmas Reflection Homily, LOVE, Nancy Noel. Dec. 30: 8am Holy Eucharist, 10:15 a.m.

Service of Lessons and Carols (No Communion). Everyone is welcome. Info: 636.949.0160, www.trinity-stcharles.org or Facebook.

December 24: Dardenne Presbyterian Church Events Various Christmas Eve Worship events 4 p.m. - 11 p.m.

Info: 636.561.4347 or www. dpc4u.org.

January 27: 10th Annual Hymn Festival at Zion Lutheran Church 3866 Harvester Road in St. Charles. 3 p.m. This event is part of the Music at Zion concert series for 2012-2013. Info: www.zionharvester.org or contact Mark Thoelke, Minister of Music at 636.441.7425.

December 24: Christmas Eve Services at The United Methodist Church at Wentzville 725 Wall Street. 4-5 p.m. Live Nativity and Petty Zoo, 5 p.m. Family Service, 7 p.m.

Traditional Service, 11 p.m.

Lessons and Carols. Candlelight, Communion and “Silent Night” at each worship service.

Info: 636.327.6377 or www. livelovegrow.org.

Every Thursday at 7 p.m. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Friends and Family Support Group Open to anyone who has a loved one suffering from any kind of addiction. Held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 66 Oak Valley Drive, St. Peters. For more information, email ARP-stln@ hotmail.com.

December 24-30: Christmas

Operation Backpack - United

Methodist Church, Wentzville Food search program to provide food to at-risk children over the weekend when they don’t have access to free breakfast & lunch at local schools.

Info: 636.327.6377.

Truth Matters!! Free Bible Correspondence Course Call: 636.294.9468 or 636.272.3013. Come Learn God’s Word with us. Sun. 9:30 am. - Bible classes 10:20 am.

- Worship; Sun. 5 pm. - Worship; Wed Eve 7 pm. 2309 Markoe Avenue, Wentzville, MO 63385.

3rd Tues: Luncheon for Seniors.

Seniors 55+ enjoy free lunch, cards, games, bingo. From 11 am - 2 pm at Transfiguration Episcopal Church, 1860 Lake St. Louis Blvd. Info: 636.561.8951.

2nd Wed: Noon Luncheon Shiloh United Methodist Church, 1515 Hwy T, Foristell.

United Methodist Women provide main entree & bevs.

636.673.2144.

Ongoing Events 4th Monday: 6:30 p.m.

American Legion Post 388 Meets At Holy Cross Lutheran

Church, 8945 Vets.

Pkwy. 636.219.0553.

Mem.

Every Monday: Adult Volleyball 6-7 p.m. at the St. Charles County Family YMCA, 3900 Shady Springs Lane, St. Peters. Non-competitive, co-ed, free and open to the public.

Just show up with your friends and enjoy a fun-filled evening.

Info: 636.928.1928.

1st Tuesday: Fleur de Lis Garden Society 6:30 p.m. at the Kisker Road Library, 1000 Kisker Road. Info: Jeanne at 314.605.8563.

4th Tuesday: 6:30 p.m.

O’Fallon Garden Club.

Meets at Sunrise Methodist Church, 7116 Twin Chimney Blvd. More info call Barb at 636.978.5930.

Every Tuesday: Kiwanis Club of St. Charles Noon - 1 p.m. at the Columns Banquet Center in St. Charles.

Every Tuesday: Quilting Guild at the O’Fallon Family YMCA 1-4 p.m. Free. Join us every week to work on quilts “One Stitch at a Time” for local charities. Anybody welcome, no sewing experience required.

Every Tuesday: Toastmasters Meeting 7 p.m. at the Renaud Spirit Center, 2650 Tri Sports Circle, O’Fallon, Mo. Toastmasters gives all members the opportunity to grow their skills, which fosters self-confidence and personal growth. St. Charles County Toastmasters is open to the public and looking for new

GIVE THE GIFT OF HEALTH Y GIFT CARDS ST. CHARLES DISTRICT YMCA’S Gift cards from the Y are a great way to encourage those you care about to become more healthy.

Great for holiday gifts or everyday giving needs.

Can be used for membership, activities and sports.

Gift cards are available for purchase at the service center.

www.ymcastlouis.org/ofallon ymcastlouis.org/ofallon www.ymcastlouis.org/stcharles ymcastlouis.org/stcharles

www.dpc4u.org

members. Info: 636.379.2505.

Every Tuesday & Thursday: Yoga at The St. Charles County Family YMCA Tuesdays 7:30-8:30 pm., Thursdays 7-7:55 p.m. Any level.

Info: 636.928.1928.

Every Wednesday: Crossroads Cribbage Club 12 p.m. Meets at Rizzo’s Bar & Grill, Wentzville, MO. Every Wednesday: Charity Bingo 6:45 p.m. VFW Post 5077 sponsors, at VFW Hall, 8500 Veterans Mem. Pkwy., O’Fallon.

Cash prizes awarded. Support Vets & other worthwhile charities. Now a non-smoking facility. Info: 636.272.1945 or www. vfwpost5077.org.

1st & 3rd Wednesday: St. Charles Area Wood Carvers 7 p.m. Diverse group of people has a wide variety of carving skills ranging from novice to professional. Meetings include brief business mtg. followed by carving session. At Weldon Spring Site Remedial Action Project, 7295 Hwy. 94 South, St. Charles. Visitors always welcome!

Every Thursday: Kiwanis Club of O’Fallon 11:45 a.m. Meets at JJ’s Restaurant in O’Fallon. Info: www. ofkiwanis.com.

Every Thursday: O’Fallon Rotary Club Lunch Noon at The Holy Cross Lutheran Church (8945 Veterans Memorial Pkwy, across from Fort Zumwalt Park). Visitors welcome. Info: Darryl Sandweg, 636.980.1777.

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • December 19, 2012

Every Friday: Moms Play Group 10 a.m. at LSL Community Association, 100 Cognac Ct., Lake Saint Louis, MO 63367.

Playgroup is a great opportunity to teach our children how to play and share while in a welcoming environment. Info: Andrea Crislip at 314.479.0306 or andreacrislip@gmail.com, or visit www.lslmothersclub. com.

Every Friday: VFW Fish Fry 3-8 p.m. VFW Post 2866. 66 VFW Lane. Call Bill Sams, 636.724.9612.

Every Saturday: Chess 8-10:30 a.m. or later in the food court at Mid Rivers Mall in St. Peters. Come play!

Every Saturday: Veterans Learn guitar for FREE 9:30 a.m. in Historic St. Charles. Info: Bill Dennis at 314.479.5750.

Every Saturday: Senior Singles 3 p.m. Dinner at 4 p.m. Upcoming dates: 12-8: Choy’s (8 Wentzville Ctr.), 12-15: Mr. Lucky’s (3603 N. St. Peters Pkwy) Info: Pat at 636.240.7898 or Wanda at 636.561.9100.

Every Saturday: Charity Bingo 7 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Wentzville Community Club (500 West Main, Wentzville 63385). No games Easter weekend & Christmas. $3,600 in cash prizes each week. Progressive game, Derby tickets, pull-tabs, 505/50, bar & food.

Info: www.wentzvillefleamarket.org, www.facebook.com/ wentzville-community-club.

Chapter #369 Meeting 6:30 p.m. at Saint Joseph Health Center (300 First Capitol Dr.) in the doctors dinning room, next to the cafeteria. Topic: Healthy Eating.

Exercise Classes for Cancer Patients & Survivors Free for breast cancer survivors/patients, discounted for all other cancer survivors/patients. All participants must have a referral from their SSM Cancer Care or SSM Breast Care physician. Stop by the YMCA service center or call the St. Charles YMCA at 636.928.1928 or the O’Fallon YMCA at 636.379.0092 to register.

Diabetes Self Management Training (DSMT) Includes a series of three classes over a three- to four- month period held at SSM St. Joseph Health Center. DSMT is available with a doctor’s order. Info: 636.949.9600 or Patty Shelton at 636.947.5573.

Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) A nutritional diagnostic therapy and counseling service held at SSM St. Joseph Health Center for disease management with a licensed, registered dietitian. Available with a doctor’s order only. To register call 636.949.9600. Info: 636.947.5163.

Free Mammogram Screenings SSM Health Care offers free mammogram screenings to women who have no health insurance, by appointment only.

Must meet qualifications. Appointments are available at

SSM St. Joseph Health Center, 300 First Capitol Drive in St. Charles, SSM St. Joseph Hospital West, 100 Medical Plaza in Lake Saint Louis, SSM St. Joseph Medical Park, 1475 Kisker Road in St. Peters, and SSM St. Joseph Health Center-Wentzville, 500 Medical Drive in Wentzville. Info: 636.947.5617.

Support Groups Daily: 12 Step Recovery Club 204 G West Pittman, O’Fallon.

Info: Mike at 636.240.1722 or www.212club.org.

Every Monday: BILY (Because I Love You) Parent Support Group 7:30 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 801 First Capitol Dr., St. Charles. For parents only. Free. Focus on teens/ young adults who act out. Help Line 314.993.7550.

1st & 3rd Mondays: Sharing Losses Through Bereavement 1-2:30 p.m. at SSM Home Care & Hospice, 1187 Corporate Lake Drive. For families/friends who want help understanding and coping with the death of a loved one.

Registration: 314.SSM.DOCS (776.3627).

Every Mon.: Tobacco Free for Life 7 p.m. Support group. Free. St. Peters City Hall. 636.947.5304.

1st Mon.: Better Breathers Club Those w/chronic lung disease.

St. Joseph Health Cntr., 300 1st Capitol Dr., St. Charles. Free lunch. 636.947.5684.

What’s Happening

Women Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse Meets in 4 locations in the metro St Louis area. Info: metrostlouissia@gmail.com.

• 1st and 3rd Monday: 9:30-11 a.m.

500 Medical Dr in Wentzville; doctors dining room of St Joseph Hospital; contact 636-5611407.

• 2nd and 4th Tuesday: 6:30-8 p.m.

2 Progress Point Parkway in O’Fallon, MO; 4th floor conference room of Progress West Hospital; contact 636.561.1407.

4th Tues: Diabetes Support Group 6:30-7:30 p.m. At HW Koenig Med Bldg, St Joseph Hosp.

West. 636.625.5447 Last Tues.: 7–8:30 p.m. HOPE (Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Support Group) Sponsored by SSM St. Joseph Health Cntr & SSM, at Harvester Christian Church, Rm CH–104, 2950 Kings Crossing.

636.928.7651, x. 115.

3rd Wed. 6:30–8 p.m. KidsCan! Siteman Cancer Center, Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hosp., 150 Entrance Way, St. Peters.

Support children 4–12 w/parent/significant caregiver w/ cancer.

1st Thurs: Conquer 6:30–7:30 p.m. Support Group

12 Step Support Group for

HEALTH

www.paws-relax.com

January 8: Mended Hearts Sudoku Solutions from page 14

www.welsch-heatcool.com

21

for adults w/cancer. Siteman Cancer Cntr, Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hosp., 150 Entrance Way, St. Peters. 636.916.9920.

2nd Thurs: Support Group for Alzheimer’s 4 p.m. Delmar Gardens, 7068 S. Outer 364, O’Fallon. Call: Jennifer Krpan, Ralph Covinsky 636.240.6100.

4th Thurs: Breast Cancer Support Group 6:30–8 p.m. Siteman Cancer Cntr, Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hosp., 150 Entrance Way. 636.928.WELL (9355) or 800.392.0936. www.siteman. bjsph.org.

3rd Sun: Alzheimer’s Meeting 12:45-1:45 p.m. Morning Star Church, 1600 Feise Rd., O’Fallon. Faith-based for caregivers, family of those w/memory loss. 1.800.272.3900.

Gateway to Hope Program Arranges care for individuals diagnosed w/breast cancer who are either uninsured or underinsured & reside in MO. Gateway to Hope serves as a breast cancer lifeline for those who do not qualify for government sponsored programs & are unable to afford treatment.

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with breast cancer & cannot access treatment call Gateway to Hope at 314.569.1113 or visit www.gthstl.org.

22

December 19, 2012 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

ATTORNEY

help wanted

help wanted

Novena

Public Notice

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

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

It has never been known to fail.

Thank you, St. Jude. K.M.F.

www.saintcharlesfamilylaw.com

SERVICES

Thank You

PET CEMETERY

over 2,500 pet burials; over 6 acres; over 40 yrs old. 314-576-3030 www.memoryparkpetcemetery.info www.memoryparkpetcemetery.info

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Drivers:

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Consistent Freight, Weekly Home-Time for Solo’s and Teams!

Werner Enterprises:

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Holiday Services

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Music Lessons help wanted

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23

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • December 19, 2012

CLASSIFIEDS

www.scrubbydutch.com

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Call

636.697.2414 to place your ad!

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Published Every Week for 91 Years Family-Owned & Operated

2139 Bryan Valley Commercial Drive 2139 Bryan Valley Commercial Drive O’Fallon, MO 63366 O’Fallon, MO 63366

St. Charles Combined St. Charles Combined

cnews@centurytel.net cnews@centurytel.net ofcnews@centurytel.net ofcnews@centurytel.net www.mycnews.com www.mycnews.com

St. Louis St. Louis

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St. Charles Combined St. Charles Combined

St. Charles Combined St. Charles Combined

Our publications use a combination of online subscription, Our publications use a combination of online subscription, direct mail, home delivery, and voluntary circulation methods. direct mail, home delivery, and voluntary circulation methods.

Voluntary refers to a circulation method where readers Voluntary refers to a circulation method where readers “voluntarily” choose to pick up a publication to read. This “voluntarily” choose to pick up a publication to read. This method is powerful because locations are carefully chosen method is powerful because locations are carefully chosen and newsstands are monitored for 100% pick up. Community and newsstands are monitored for 100% pick up. Community News has developed a network of over 650 convenient News has developed a network of over 650 convenient locations including every major supermarket chain. Our locations including every major supermarket chain. Our voluntary method is powerful for three reasons: voluntary method is powerful for three reasons: 1 QUALITY READERS A voluntary reader is an interested 1 QUALITY READERS A voluntary reader is an interested reader, actively outside of the home, in stores, seeking out reader, actively outside of the home, in stores, seeking out information about the community information about the community 2 TOTAL UTILITY 100% pick up assures no wasted 2 TOTAL UTILITY 100% pick up assures no wasted papers. Every paper reaches an interested reader, yielding a papers. Every paper reaches an interested reader, yielding a full value for the entire print run. full value for the entire print run.

3 EXPANDING SET Every print run reaches a unique 3 EXPANDING SET Every print run reaches a unique group of readers, group of readers, because the majority because the majority of voluntary readers of voluntary readers are occasional readers. are occasional readers.

Over time, these unique Over time, these unique groups add up to a groups add up to a readership size about readership size about three times greater three times greater than the print run. than the print run.

FOUR GREAT PUBLICATIONS FOUR GREAT PUBLICATIONS Huneke Publications, Inc. offers four

Huneke Publications, Inc. offers four publications: two weekly newspapers publications: two weekly newspapers and two news magazines, each and two news magazines, each covering a unique market segment covering a unique market segment within St. Louis County and St. within St. Louis County and St. Charles County. As a member of Charles County. As a member of the Missouri Press Association, all the Missouri Press Association, all of our publications feature verified of our publications feature verified circulation and an earned credibility circulation and an earned credibility among our peers. among our peers.

C

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2011 May/June 2011 May/June

COMMUNITY NEWS COMMUNITY NEWS First published in 1921, Community News is the longest

COMMUNITY NEWS - St. Charles County COMMUNITY NEWS - St. Charles County Published weekly with a powerful circulation combination of

OUR TOWN MAGAZINE OUR TOWN MAGAZINE

CROSSROADS MAGAZINE CROSSROADS MAGAZINE

First published in 1921, Community News is the longest published weekly newspaper in the St. Louis metropolitan published weekly newspaper in the St. Louis metropolitan area and has established a large audience of loyal readers. area and has established a large audience of loyal readers.

Community News circulates across a broad geographic region Community News circulates across a broad geographic region with newstands, home throw and online subscription. with newstands, home throw and online subscription.

Published weekly with a powerful circulation combination of newsstands, home throw, and online subscription. newsstands, home throw, and online subscription.

The St. Charles County edition features countywide coverage The St. Charles County edition features countywide coverage including the cities of: St. Charles, St. Peters, Cottleville, including the cities of: St. Charles, St. Peters, Cottleville, Weldon Spring, O’Fallon, Dardenne Prairie, Lake St. Louis, Weldon Spring, O’Fallon, Dardenne Prairie, Lake St. Louis, and Wentzville, plus Troy. and Wentzville, plus Troy.

Published bi-monthly, Our Town is direct mailed to all business This monthly lifestyle magazine covers the fast-growing Our FREE publications are available in over 500 convenient locations, including every Dierbergs, Schnucks and Shop Save.

This monthly lifestyle magazine covers the’N fast-growing Published bi-monthly, Our Town is direct mailed to all business Wentzville and Lake St. Louis areas. It is direct mailed with addresses in its service area, plus online subscribers. It is a Wentzville and Lake St. Louis areas. It is direct mailed with

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plus online subscribers.

24

FYI

December 19, 2012 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

Driving Safety Expert Douglas Horn Alerts Drivers to Holiday Driving Hazards Dangerous driving behaviors could make December most dangerous month ever Driving safety expert Doug Horn says motorists not only need to exhibit extra caution while encountering treacherous road surfaces and reduced visibility during the weeks ahead, they also need to stay on high alert for four dangerous driving behaviors, which he says could make December 2012 one of the most dangerous months ever for motorists.

“When accompanied by poor road conditions, these four dangerous behind-the-wheel behaviors combine into a perfect storm of risk for drivers,” says Horn, founder of the driving safety program “Drive

by Example” (www.drivebyexample.com).

The Winter Holiday’s Four Most Dangerous Driving Behaviors: 1. Distracted Driving “This includes driving while using cell phones for both talking and texting holiday messages to friends, co-workers, and family,” Horn says. “It also includes driving while checking out store hours and locations using a smart phone to surf the web.”

2. Impaired Driving “Year end dinners, parties and celebrations typically involve consumption of alcohol, and in too many cases, use of drugs,” says Horn. “An increase in the number of impaired drivers using the roadways during the winter holidays has been well-established

by law enforcement, and the loss of life resulting from impaired driving is also well-established.”

3. Pressured Driving “The winter holidays typically bring with them increased pressures, especially financial pressures and the stress created by trying to do too much in a short time span. Drivers often react to these pressures by driving too fast for conditions, making aggressive lane changes, failing to yield right-of-way, and generally disregarding the needs and safety of others using the road,” he says.

4. Fatigued Driving “Increased demands and activities during the winter holidays often mean significantly reduced sleep schedules,” Horn says. “According to a study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, people who slept six to seven hours a night were twice as likely to be involved in a crash as those sleeping eight hours or more, while people sleeping less than five hours increased their risk four to five times.”

Horn says it’s not uncommon for a single driver to manifest all four dangerous driving behaviors at the same time, especially in the final 10 days of the year.

“Drivers in warm climates with good road conditions also need to be alert to these dangerous behaviors,” Horn says. “During sunny days when roads are clear, drivers become ‘risk averse’ and drive faster while taking their attention off the physical activity of driving. Putting your vehicle on ‘autopilot’ is extremely dangerous at anytime of the year, but especially so during the holidays when traffic volume increases.”

To help motorists stay accident-free over the holidays, Horn has compiled some tips for safe driving which he says

can and should be used 365 days-a-year by every motorist: Drive Alert: “This is especially crucial at intersections where failure to notice traffic control devices can result in violent collisions and pedestrian injuries,” Horn says.

Drive Buckled: “The use of seat belts reduces risk of crash fatality by 45 percent according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Organization,” Horn says.

Drive Cautious: “Drive at safe speeds for conditions, keep proper distance between vehicles, obey traffic signs, and signal all turns,” he says. Resist the temptation to make a sudden lane change or another risky maneuver.

Drive Defensively: “When you drive alert, buckled and cautious, you are effectively protecting yourself, your passengers and other motorists against risk of violent collision, injury and fatality,” he says.

Drive by Example: “When drivers model safe driving behaviors, they are in the best position to protect themselves, their passengers, and others on the roadway,” Horn says.

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If you need extra cash this holiday season, we can help.

We are offering Fast Cash Holiday Loans for up to $1,500 through December 31, 2012.

• Great for holiday gifts, events and entertainment • Rates as low as 9.9% APR* • 12-month loan term*

Don’t delay! Apply online, call Member Services at (636) 720-2400, option 3, or stop by a branch and give your loved ones the holiday season they deserve. *APR = Annual Percentage Rate. All loans subject to approval. Rates, terms and conditions may vary based on creditworthiness, qualifications and other conditions. For a $1,500 loan at 9.9% APR and a term of 12 months, the payment would be $131.79 for 11 months with a final payment of $131.76. Offer ends 12/31/12.

Federally insured by NCUA. Additional coverage up to $250,000 provided by Excess Share Insurance Corporation, a licensed insurance company.

4161 Highway K, O’Fallon | (636) 720-2400 | www.westcommunitycu.org westcommunitycu.org