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FEBRUARY 8, 2012 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

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FEBRUARY 8, 2012 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

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Getting nowhere, very fast

California has a huge state debt and Washington has a huge national debt. But that does not discourage either Governor Jerry Brown or President Barack Obama from wanting to launch a very costly highspeed rail system.

Most of us might be a little skittish about spending money if we were teetering on the brink of bankruptcy. But the beauty of politics is that it is all other people’s money, including among those other people generations yet unborn.

The high-speed rail system proposed for California has been envisioned as a model for similar systems elsewhere in the United States. A recent story in the San Francisco Chronicle used the high-speed rail system in Spain as an analogy for California.

Spain is about the same size as California, and has a similar population density – and population density is the key to the economic viability of mass transportation, from subways to high-speed rail.

It so happens that I have ridden on Spain’s high-speed rail system. It was very nice, especially since I did not have to pay the full costs, which were subsidized by the Spanish taxpayers.

While the Spanish government has been subsidizing the passengers on its highspeed rail system, the European Union has been subsidizing the Spanish government.

Someone once said that government is the illusion that we can all live off somebody else. Spain’s high-speed rail system is not even covering its operating costs, never mind the enormous costs of setting up the system in the first place. One reason is that half the seats are empty in the high-speed trains in Spain.

That is what happens when you don’t have the population density required for passengers to cover the operating costs.

You would need the hordes of Genghis Khan riding the high-speed rail system to cover the additional costs of the rails and the trains.

An economics professor at the University of Barcelona says that Spain “has not recovered one single euro from the infrastructure investment.”

The most famous high-speed rail system is in Japan, one of the most densely populated countries in the world. The “bullet train” between Tokyo and Osaka has 130 million riders a year. Tokyo alone has more than three times the population of San

Francisco and Los Angeles put together.

In California, an element of farce has been added to the impending economic tragedy, if the envisioned high-speed rail system actually materializes.

The first leg of the system is planned to run between Fresno and Bakersfield.

If those names don’t ring a bell with you, there is a reason. They are modest-sized communities out in the agricultural San Joaquin Valley, well removed from San Francisco or Los Angeles.

You can bet the rent money that highspeed rail traffic between Fresno and Bakersfield will never come within shouting distance of covering the operating costs.

Some people have analogized putting such a rail line between these two towns to the infamous “bridge to nowhere” in Alaska.

Why are they doing it? Because they can.

If they began this project where they want it to go – between San Francisco and Los Angeles – they would run into so much opposition from the environmentalists, and from local politicians influenced by the environmentalists, that the delays could take the high-speed rail advocates beyond the time limit for using the federal subsidy money. But the green fanatics have not yet taken over politically out in the San Joaquin Valley.

The only reason for even thinking about building a high-speed rail line between Fresno and Bakersfield is just to get the project underway with federal money, making it politically more difficult to stop the larger project for a similar rail line between San Francisco and Los Angeles.

In other words, they are going to start wasting money out in the valley, so that they will be able to waste more money later on, along the coast. This may not make any sense economically, but it can make sense politically for Jerry Brown and Barack Obama.

An old song ended, “You’ve been running around in circles, getting nowhere – getting nowhere very fast.” On high-speed rail.

© 2012 Creators.com

I opinion I 3

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4 I OPINION I

FEBRUARY 8, 2012 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

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into office blaming Wall Street and the rich for our economic problems. Many in the administration believed that socialistic To the Editor: I am writing in regard to (Jeannie) Seib- policies were the way to go. His adminisert’s article (Jan. 25, 2012, MRN) regarding tration threw money at the unemployment the proposed group home for person’s with problem, but it remained high. They came disabilities in Lake Saint Louis. The fact up with new taxes, rules and mandates for that there are people so adamantly against businesses and banks, which created more someone different than them living in their business problems, and drove industry to neighborhood saddened me. People with find ways to produce their goods and serdisabilities have the same rights as you vices with fewer employees.

Now many of you may think I’m talking and I and deserve to have their place in the about President Obama and his adminiscommunity.

In a month where we are to celebrate tration, but I’m not. Economists and hisand remember Dr. (Martin Luther) King’s torians have written books, before Obama message of equality for all, shouldn’t we was president, looking back with 20/20 as a community be beyond spreading hate hindsight at the Great Depression and the and discrimination? As a family member mistakes made by President Franklin D. of a person with a disability who also lives Roosevelt.

First they concluded the Great Depresin a community-based group home and an advocate for persons with disabilities, I am sion was not caused by Wall Street and ashamed of the response some members of the rich, but by the federal government’s my community have had to this proposed incorrect actions to several incidents, and its inability to act quickly when needed. legislation.

Secondly they concluded the above menPeople with disabilities should not be locked up and hidden away as they were in tioned actions by FDR actually extended the past. Rather, they should be valued for the depression longer that it should have their contributions to and take their right- gone.

I once heard, “Those who don’t study ful place in the community. As for these concerned residents of Lake Saint Louis, I history are doomed to repeat it.” You hope that you never have to feel the pain of decide, has our country repeated history?

Jim Heim having others judge your family member St. Peters simply because of the way they were born.

Perhaps a home in this neighborhood may teach some residents a much needed Not on the hook lesson in compassion, understanding, and To the Editor: (Regarding) the editorial “Kodak and the respecting the differences in others.

Casey Jones Post Office,” (Thomas Sowell, MRN, Jan. 25, 2012), it seems in today’s electronic age of e-mails and tweets, the once hallowed bastion of journalistic reporting and MRN’s fault newspapers has succumbed to the same To the Editor: Your reporter’s name calling in what I indifference for fact-checking as superassume was supposed to be a news story pacs and political sound bites.

The taxpayers are not on the hook for on the approval of a group home in Lake Saint Louis was offensive and insulting costs incurred by the post office. The (Jan. 25, 2012, MRN. “Group Home for Postal Reorganization Act of 1970 took the disabled persons to open despite protest.”) post office off taxpayer rolls and placed it Citizens were well within their rights in the position of being the only governto oppose this invasion into their neigh- mental agency required to self-sustain and borhood, zoned for single family homes. required to operate under a break-even According to the article, they followed the business model. The legislation passed proper process in going from staff level to by President George W. Bush requires the the Planning and Zoning Commission and post office to prepay all their employees finally to the Board of Aldermen as they retirement.

The federal government has for years attempted to protect their neighborhood taken this pre-funding and used the money and home values.

Bill Sparacino to mask the true size of the National deficit.

Because it is easier to point fingers and fail to report the facts this practice has become the elephant in the room everyone ignores.

Repeating history To the Editor: Doug Adkins The President, a Harvard graduate, came

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Classified Advertising Sales Ellen Thomas Writers Amy Armour Jonathan Duncan Brian Flinchpaugh Sue Hornof Mary Ann O’Toole Holley Jeannie Seibert 7544 Spirit 40 Park Drive Chesterfield, MO 63005 (636) 591-0010 ■ (636) 778-9785 Fax newsmagazinenetwork.com Please send Comments, Letters and Press Releases to: editormidrivers@newsmagazinenetwork.com Mid Rivers Newsmagazine is published 25 times per year by 21 Publishing LLC. It is direct-mailed to more than 61,000 households in St. Charles County. Products and services advertised are not necessarily endorsed by Mid Riverts Newsmagazine and views expressed in editorial copy are not necessarily those of Mid Rivers Newsmagazine. No part of Mid Rivers Newsmagazine may be reproduced in any form without prior written consent from Mid Rivers Newsmagazine.

All letters addressed to Mid Rivers Newsmagazine or its editor are assumed to be intended for publication and are subject to editing for content and length. Mid Rivers Newsmagazine reserves the right to refuse any advertisement or editorial submission. © Copyright 2012.

6 I OPINION I

FEBRUARY 8, 2012 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

EDITORIAL

Jobs get off the mat Turn off the spin machine for a moment, please.

Last week’s report that unemployment came in at 8.3 percent suggests that things are better. Better, not good yet, but better. They are not Republican-better or Democrat-better, just better.

In an election season – or any other season for that matter – politicians in both parties will be inclined to claim this positive information as a result of their own hard work and offer further “help” to rectify the situation.

Oh, dear, dear politicians, please do not help! The economy added these jobs, capitalism added these jobs, unencumbered business owners added these jobs, the resilience of the great American consumer added these jobs – all government did was shed jobs.

Maybe, just maybe, if the American public stays very quiet in their reaction to the better report – simply whistle a tune and walk down the street, look down and avoid direct eye contact with any elected official – just maybe the country can avoid the impending disaster of greater political intervention into economic policy.

In a speech at the end of last week, President Obama echoed these sentiments exactly, saying to Congress, “Do not slow down the recovery we are on.

Don’t muck it up.”

Precisely, Mr. President! But you said this in a speech, and you are the Presi-

Happy Valentine’s Day Valentine’s Day is February 14.

Go ahead, be romantic.

dent, and it is an election year, so perhaps are you politicizing the issue by acting as though you are de-politicizing the issue?

Yes, that might be the case.

Well, at least it is still possible that Congress can take the high road on this issue.

“With the President having ‘mucked up’ the economy pretty well over the last three years, we appreciate his perspective,” said a spokesperson for Speaker John Boehner.

Oh no! It is too late for the public to act as though we haven’t noticed. What next then?

Seriously, everybody, we live in the greatest country in the world and are part of the greatest economy in the world.

That has not been particularly obvious of late, but it is no less true. We must have faith that, left to its own devices, the recovery will happen. We must have the knowledge that, left to their own devices, politicians will “muck” this up. They will meddle. They will make grandiose claims.

Tthey will be inspired to further action.

Remind them at every opportunity that it is the people and their power to overcome which will repair all the damage done by meddling.

This better news is a testament to the power of our economy, not to the power of our policies. That must be remembered and reinforced.

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8 I NEWS I

FEBRUARY 8, 2012 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

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players, coaches, alumni and other regional volunteers. The outreach project is a collaborative effort of Basket of Hope, Riley Children’s Foundation, and former Indianapolis Colts Coach Tony Dungy.

“These necklaces will remind every mother each day that she does have hope and other people do care about them,” said Angela Brunette, national executive director for Basket of Hope.

emergency medical services, the use of a breathing air pack and how a fire is put out. Classes will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesdays, and during the last session of the academy participants will conduct a live action exercise at the CCFR training facility.

Participants must be residents of the CCFR District, be at least 21 years old, have proof of current health insurance and complete a short application process.

There is also a $25 fee to cover the costs of materials for the course.

For more information, visit www.centralcountyfire.org.

Fire academy dates

Lake Saint Louis

News Br iefs St. Peters Super gifts U Design Jewelry teamed up with the Super Basket of Hope program and the 2012 Super Bowl to help make a difference in the lives of others. U Design Jewelry of St. Peters, and its representatives around the U.S., donated 7,000 “Hope Necklaces” – a total retail value of $280,000 – through the Super Baskets of Hope program.

Super Baskets of Hope, which was approved by the NFL and the 2012 Super Bowl XLVI Host Committee, delivered 7,000 baskets filled with inspirational and entertainment items as well as The Hope Necklace from U Design Jewelry to critically ill children and families at hospitals throughout Indiana and in each of America’s 32 NFL cities.

“This is the first Super Bowl project to reach across the entire country, including right here in metro St. Louis, and U Design Jewelry is proud to partner with them, the NFL, and the 2012 Super Bowl,” said Jennifer Bonacorsi, the company’s president.

“I have seen first-hand the impact these baskets have on the lives of these kids and families, and this is probably the most exciting thing I have ever been able to be a part of.”

The baskets were delivered by NFL team

Residents in the Central County Fire & Rescue District can learn about fire rescue in a hands-on fire academy this spring.

The Citizen Fire Academy — which begins on April 17 — is a unique program geared to give community members the education and experience to safely understand the operations and functions of the fire department.

“Participants are given a chance to interact with the firefighters, learn about the fire service, and receive hands-on experience with some of the tasks and tools used to fight fires and save lives,” said CCFR Chief Russ Mason.

The six-week academy will teach participants about the history of the fire service and CCFR, tools, equipment and search and rescue. Students will also learn about

Healthy hospital SSM St. Joseph Hospital West is stepping up its efforts to make health care safer and less costly by participating in the “Partnership for Patients” initiative. The federally approved and federally supported initiative is geared to make hospitals across the United States safer.

Partnership for Patients was established by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Innovation Center (CMS) as a public-private partnership that offers support to physicians, nurses and other clinicians working in and out of hospitals to keep patients from getting injured or sicker while in the hospital so they can heal without complications.

As a member of the Partnership for

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O’Fallon Bald is beautiful A group of residents will shave their heads in March in an effort to raise money for seven-year-old Nicole Burton who is battling leukemia for the second time.

The team, “SHAVE it off to the MAXX,” sponsored by Pepsi Max, will host its annual fundraiser from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Feb.

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Patients initiative, SSM St. Joseph Hospital West and all SSM Health Care hospitals will focus on reducing preventable readmissions to hospitals by 20 percent and reducing preventable hospital-acquired conditions by 40 percent over the next three years.

“SSM St. Joseph Hospital West already has a strong reputation for eliminating infections and preventing other types of complications while patients are healing,” said Dr. Scott Endsley, vice president and chief medical officer for SSM Health Care’s Patient Safety and Quality Center. “By participating in the Partnership for Patients initiative, we are renewing our focus and dedication to providing safe, high-quality and cost-effective patient care.”

CMS estimates this partnership has the potential to save 60,000 lives and reduce millions of preventable injuries and complications in patient care during the next three years. It also has the potential to save as much as $35 billion, including up to $10 billion in Medicare savings.

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FEBRUARY 8, 2012 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM 25, at Timber Creek Bar & Grill located at 1120 Technology Drive in O’Fallon. Visitors will have the opportunity to meet the “shavees,” eat dinner and bid on silent auction items.

Team Member Melody Black, who is also Burton’s cousin, is selling candles as a fundraiser. The funds raised will be used to help ease the family’s overwhelming medical bills.

“All the proceeds from that fundraiser, go to the Burton family,” Black said.

For more information, visit www.stbaldricks.org.

St. Charles County Grandkids save family A St. Charles County family lost their home in a fire last month, but all six family members escaped the burning home safely.

The Cottleville Fire Protection District responded to a call of a reported fire in the 500 block of Highfield Drive at 1:10 a.m. on Jan. 28. Firefighters arrived to find 60 percent of the home consumed in fire, but all six occupants of the home had escaped.

Eleven-year-old Kylie and her eightyear-old brother, Austin, noticed smoke coming into the kitchen from the garage and alerted their grandparents.

“They woke grandma and grandpa, and grandma and grandpa woke the two people in the basement, one of which was their teenage daughter,” said Scott Freitag, with the Cottleville Fire Protection District.

“Kylie and Austin’s quick actions allowed everyone in the home to escape without injury. Had it not been for them doing exactly what the fire department teaches kids to do in this situation, it is very likely that the two individuals in the basement would have been trapped,” The home and three cars were destroyed in the fire.

“Unfortunately, the home is lost, but the family is intact,” Freitag said.

Investigators have ruled the fire accidental, most likely caused by smoking materials discarded in a trash receptacle in the garage.

Safe responders During the past year, ambulances, police cars and fire apparatus have been struck by motorists on the highway while first responders were performing their duties.

These collisions have left emergency personnel injured and have resulted in serious injuries, including fatalities to some of the motorists.

These safety concerns prompted CEO Ken Koch of the St. Charles County Ambulance District to host a round table discussion with area law enforcement leaders,

fire agencies and MoDOT to develop some safety solutions to an emerging problem.

“The purpose of the meeting was twofold, to identify if a problem exists and make any changes in response that could provide additional safety measures to both emergency personnel and the general public,” said Martin Limpert a spokesman for the ambulance district. “Secondly, was to create a template to establish unified response criteria for all responding agencies. This could include everything from the initial dispatching of units and creating a safer work zone to getting units off the scene ASAP to help prevent accidents that occur as traffic backs up.”

Limpert said the next step will be to form a committee representative of each public service agency and MODOT to create a customized template for responses in St. Charles County.

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I NEWS I 9

It’s Time for New Year’s Resolutions!

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Walking for a cure More than 250 people gathered at the Holiday Inn Southwest/Viking Conference Center on Jan. 29 for the JDRF annual Walk Awards Celebration.

“Congratulations to all family and corporate walk teams who participated in the 2011 JDRF Walk to Cure Diabetes. We had a great evening that honored your outstanding achievements in helping JDRF Metro Saint Louis/Greater Missouri Chapter raise $1.3 Million for diabetes research,” said Marie Davis, executive director.

To date, JDRF has awarded more than $1.6 billion to T1D research efforts that have helped or significantly improved the care of people with insulin-dependent diabetes until a cure is found.

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St. Charles ArtWalk deadline extended Artists now have until March 1 to submit an entry for the seventh annual Spring ArtWalk to be held April 27 through April 29 in St. Charles.

The Spring ArtWalk is a three-day event that features juried artists from across the St. Louis area. The artwork is housed indoors at various businesses along the north end of Historic Main Street.

Participating businesses provide display space for the artists and assist in attracting customers and sales. Proceeds from the event will benefit Saint Charles Riverfront Arts’ efforts to promote visual and performing arts throughout the St. Charles community.

There is no entry fee and no commission on the artists’ sales for this “artist-friendly” event. The 2012 Spring ArtWalk submissions can be completed online at www. saintcharlesriverfrontarts.com.

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FEBRUARY 8, 2012 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

Santorum makes surprise visit to St. Charles Community College

By Jeannie Seibert A theme has developed in GOP presidential primary candidate Rick Santorum’s campaign and it may have started in Cottleville.

The GOP presidential primary drama was unfolding in Florida as an audience hastily assembled to hear former U.S. Sen. Rick Santorum (Penn.) in Cottleville Jan. 30.

“How’s Bella,” was the first question on the minds of one of the 1,000-plus audience members.

Santorum reported his youngest daughter, Isabella Maria, 3, who had been hospitalized for treatment of pneumonia the previous weekend, was making a rapid recovery.

Bella was born with Trisomy 18, a genetic disorder resembling Down syndrome. Typically, Trisomy 18 infants live a few hours and rarely live past the first year.

Bella has survived to age 3 but remains

highly susceptible to infection.

Santorum said he was thankful to “mainstream media harassment” for compelling him to return to Pennsylvania Jan.28 to fetch his income-tax statements. While Santorum was home, Bella’s cold worsened.

By Jan. 30, she was out of the woods.

“Bella is wonderful,” Santorum said.

Glad a quirk in the campaign had sent him home, he added, “God works in mysterious ways.”

That was just one of many applause lines Santorum delivered in his trademark sweater vest and without a TelePrompTer. Another regarded jobs and the economy.

“The Democrats and some Republicans complain about jobs going to other countries,” Santorum said. “It’s time to stop complaining and start competing.”

Santorum said his first pledge if elected president would be to “Never once mention the previous president” or blame his problems on a prior administration.

The audience was very appreciative.

To aid U.S. manufacturers to be more competitive would require more job creation, Santorum said. Lower the corporate income tax to zero and levy the current 35 percent tax rate on to those companies that go overseas for cheap labor.

Pressing ahead, Santorum said the U.S. needs a president who understands the effect on the marketplace of complying with federal regulations.

“The regulatory environment is really killing this country,” he said. “Obama has implemented more regulations than any president in the history of America.”

Complying with government regulations has become an increasingly large cost of doing business in the U.S., he said.

But, “Big government loves big business,” Santorum said.

He said he would overturn the regulatory expansion under Obama and codify it so no subsequent administration could repeat the mistake.

One of the more robust applause lines came when under the regulatory topic Santorum said under his administration the Keystone XL Pipeline would be built.

“Barack Obama has literally gone out of his way to raise the cost of energy – just like he said he would,” Santorum said. “To return manufacturing to this country, we have to lower the cost of energy.”

If a competitive business environment is driven by lower costs of doing business, the same could be said for education.

Santorum said, currently, one-third of the children in America aren’t graduating high school. Because the U.S. is so great only three things are required of an individual to radically increase his or her odds of success.

He used a liberal D.C. think tank to make his point in reverse.

It’s almost guaranteed one never has to get a job if one follows the think tank’s recommendations: don’t work, don’t get married before having a child and don’t get a high school education. Do these three things and the government will guarantee a subsistence living and you won’t have to get a job, he said.

Santorum said Obama has made the teachers’ unions the beneficiary of federal and state education dollars.

“What we really need is a fundamental change in our education system,” Santorum said.

Using St. Charles Community College as an example Santorum said schools com-

peting for students create better schools and more qualified graduates. “If they don’t, the students will go somewhere else,” he added.

“We’ve spent hundreds and hundreds of billions of dollars on education and onethird don’t graduate,” he said. “There’s a 74-percent chance you will be a success in life if you graduate high school.”

Public schools are failing because public education is government-run top-down, Santorum said. Reverse the trend and let local communities fund and design school curricula to serve that community.

“Let the free market/free enterprise system work,” Santorum said. “D.C. doesn’t understand competition.”

That led Santorum to take up the federal government’s attempt to take out competition from health-insurance market.

“I’m afraid ObamaCare will go into full effect and we will become a dependency society,” Santorum said. Once that occurs it’s virtually impossible to reverse, he said.

Stressing the importance of this election, Santorum asked the audience, “Will we become the generation of people who gave up?”

Winding down, Santorum took a quick swipe at the current administration.

“Wouldn’t it be great to have a president who is proud of America and not running around the world apologizing for us?”

Santorum left St. Charles County, ending the next day, Jan. 31, in Nevada when the polls closed in Florida. He’d come in third to Romney; Gingrich was second.

From his Las Vegas campaign headquarters Santorum approached the microphone to make his concession speech. Before he could start, an audience member called out, “How’s Bella?”

O’Fallon homeowner charged with second degree arson

By Amy Armour to break, the fire district received multiple Timothy Copeland, 52, has been charged phone calls reporting the fire. with second degree arson for allegedly setAvery said the fire started in the kitchen ting his O’Fallon home on fire on Jan. 31. near the stove. The family pets that were in The fire destroyed his home in the Berk- the house when the fire started were able to shire Downs subdivision. No one was escape unharmed. injured.

Avery said the fire was under control The O’Fallon Fire Protection District within an hour and 20 minutes, but the responded to 660 Castlebrook at 9:43 a.m. home was a complete loss. on Jan. 31. When the first fire truck arrived According to a press release issued by on the scene the fire had already opened the O’Fallon Police department, a further the roof. investigation alleged, “Copeland caused No one was in the home at the time of an extensive amount of damage by setting the fire. his house on fire.”

Scott Avery, with the O’Fallon Fire ProThe St Charles County Prosecuting tection District, said the fire had burned Attorney’s Office issued a warrant on inside the house for a while before it was Copeland on Feb. 1 for the charge of arson reported. Once the fire caused the windows in the second degree, with a $50,000 bond.

Photo courtesy of Brian J. Storm Photography

FEBRUARY 8, 2012 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

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I NEWS I 13

State legislature to give ‘serious consideration’ to I-70 toll road plan

By Mary Ann O’Toole Holley Turning I-70 into a toll road has brought a lot of speculation, but according to Missouri Department of Transportation officials, the final approval could be just a few legislative meetings away.

MoDOT Special Assignments Coordinator Bob Brendel said the U.S. Department of Transportation has granted Missouri the authority to convert I-70 into a toll road, and there is every indication that the Missouri Legislature will soon be giving serious consideration to the issue.

“We have federal approval, but we have to have state approval to enter into a public/private partnership. We don’t have the authority to do that on highways, and we’re looking for that authority from the legislature,” Brendel said. “There has not been a bill filed yet, but we know there is interest in both the House and Senate and we think it will happen within the next few weeks.”

Along with Virginia, only two states have been given this provisional authority, Brendel said.

But don’t start stocking toll booth tokens just yet.

Brendel said it would be six to eight years before a toll would begin on I-70. He said tolls could not be collected until the project

was complete. If the plan is approved by the legislature, MoDOT would have to go through proposals from the private sector, design work and other actions before work could begin.

“It could be 18 months to two years before construction begins,” Brendel said.

“I think we have every indication that there will be a thorough discussion of the issue.

It’s a project Missouri needs and we have to find a way to fund it. In our current funding situation, we could not tackle a project of that magnitude.”

Brendel said if Missouri legislators give their stamp of approval to enter into a public-private partnership to operate I-70 as a toll road, a private sector firm would come in, front the money for reconstruction and operate toll collection services for whatever length of time it takes for them to recoup their investment. A consortium of companies would likely borrow money to fund the project, and tolls paid by drivers would go back to the consortium to repay the loans.

Work on the 60-year-old highway designed to last 25 years would include new pavement, bridges, interchanges and the tolling mechanism, Brendel said.

“In some places (nationwide), tolls have been established with the provision that

they go away when the initial investment is paid off,” Brendel said. “But realistically, if we were moving ahead with this we would look at a contract of 30 to 50 years – and then, the highway would require major improvements again.”

Brendel said MoDOT currently spends between $70 million and $90 million a year to maintain I-70 from the Kansas to Illinois state lines. If the toll way is in place, it would free funds for other projects in the state, he said.

Precise toll amounts are at the idea stage, but to bring in enough funding, MoDOT projects toll fees for automobiles to be about 10 cents to 15 cents per mile, with truck drivers paying about 20 cents to 45 cents per mile. Toll fees would ultimately be determined by how much the reconstruction costs.

MoDOT officials are considering various project options: A $2 billion project would replace pavement along the entire interstate and a third lane would be added in each direction; a $3 billion plan would include replacing all interchanges and adding a 100-foot wide median for later expansion.

The most expensive, a $4 billion plan, would include rebuilding I-70 with two lanes in each direction for cars and two

in each direction to be used only by large trucks.

MoDOT estimates that even if the lowest cost was initiated, it could create 6,000 construction-related jobs each year across the state during the duration of the project.

Toll fees would also free up the $75 million to $90 million in state funds to use for other projects, said Kevin Keith, director of the Missouri Department of Transportation.

MoDOT officials and community leaders have been grappling for several months trying to find ways to fund reconstruction of I-70 in Missouri.

The toll road, a regional taxing district and increased fuel taxes are among the ideas raised by labor, business and government representatives in a recent roundtable discussion. Missouri’s fuel tax is currently 17 cents a gallon, but is among the lowest taxes nationally, MoDOT said.

“The option of doing nothing is not there.

We can’t keep going the way we are,” Keith said.

Keith said the only other way to pay for rebuilding I-70 would be to raise fuel taxes, but fuel tax hikes are unpopular among Republican and Democratic lawmakers and Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon. Keith said he also believes any attempt to raise fuel taxes would be defeated by Missouri voters.

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By Brian Flinchpaugh St. Charles County sheriff’s deputies may be in line for some additional money later this year with the Francis Howell School District agreeing to pick up half the salaries of five resource officers.

The county is also waiting to hear from the Orchard Farm School District about a similar proposal to pick up half the salaries and benefits for two other resource officers.

The St. Charles County Council approved a bill on Jan. 30 that authorizes County Executive Steve Ehlmann to execute agreements with each school district. The county has been paying the total salaries and benefits for resource officers in school located in the unincorporated area.

Ehlmann sent a letter to county school districts last May informing them that it was getting increasingly difficult to pick up the total cost.

School districts pay half or more of the salaries of O’Fallon, St. Charles and Wentzville resource officers for nine or 10 months of the year.

The 2012 budget includes the first salary increase for all county employees in three years. There will be a 1-percent increase for nearly all county employees next year.

Some county employees may also get a 2-percent merit increase.

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time $1,250 salary increase for 85 deputies with 120 or more months of service.

One possible source of additional salary funding for deputies would involve Francis Howell and Orchard Farm picking up salaries and benefits.

County Finance Director Bob Schnur said after the meeting that if school districts agree to pick up the costs, as much as $185,000 might be available.

Schnur said the three-year agreement with Francis Howell means the school district would pay $31,343 in salary and benefits for each officer – amounting to about $156,715. The agreement would begin July 1 – the start of each school district’s new fiscal year -- and cover about 10 months of salaries and benefits.

County resource officers are assigned to four middle schools – Barnwell, Bryan, Hollenbeck and Francis Howell middle schools - and Francis Howell High School.

The amounts would increase to $32,283 the following year and to $33,251 in the third year of the agreement, Schnur said.

Ehlmann told the council at its Jan. 30 meeting that the county was awaiting word from Orchard Farm.

“If I’m Orchard Farm, they may want to be looking at their budget for next year first which I’m assuming they will be doing in the next month or so,” Ehlmann said. “They’ve got until July 1 to make a decision.”

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covered by a sprinkler system.

“It’s still a 50-by-100-foot store; still kindling in a fireplace waiting to ignite,” Howell said.

Councilman Mike Pheney (Ward 5) said he attended an O’Fallon Fire Board meeting, and according to the firefighters, under the 2009 Code, one upholstered chair in a store would require a sprinkler system.

“That’s why the amended code was brought up,” Pheney said. He ultimately voted against the change.

In December, the city lost one of its historic buildings, Aunt Rosie’s House, after an unattended spotlight surrounded by painting materials burst into flame.

Members of the O’Fallon Historical Society said a sprinkler system could have saved the structure.

O’Fallon Mayor Bill Hennessy said the city will soon be discussing placement of sprinkler systems in its historic buildings.

FEBRUARY 8, 2012 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

I NEWS I 15

County council’s pay to remain the same for next four years

By Brian Flinchpaugh St. Charles County Council members won’t be receiving any pay increases for some time.

The council voted on Jan. 30 to keep their salaries the same for the next four years. The county voted 6-0 on a bill that sets salaries for the seven council members at $14,375 annually, with the council chairperson receiving an additional $150 a month.

The council is allowed by the County Charter to raise pay for elected offices once every four years. The raises can be made the year offices are up for reelection.

County Finance Director Bob Schnur said council members received a salary increase from $12,500 to $14,375 in 2008.

Council members from even numbered districts began receiving the increase in 2009 and those from odd numbered districts in 2011.

The earliest that the council can reexamine the pay issue is 2016, he said.

Council members made note that pay increases for elected officials are a sensitive issue.

“I’d also like to make a point to say that the city of St. Louis has about the same population as us,” said Councilman Joe Cronin, District 1, as the bill was coming up for a vote. “They have four times more

Former O’Fallon resident sentenced for sending KKK-related mail A former O’Fallon resident was sentenced in federal court in East St. Louis last week for sending false threats to the O’Fallon Police Department and O’Fallon City Hall in November 2006, the United States Attorney Stephen R. Wigginton announced in a released statement.

Justin Lamar Kidd, 29, was charged earlier this year with mailing a letter in November 2006 to the O’Fallon Police Department saying, “Get all the blacks from Chevy Chase Apartments out of O’Fallon before we burn the (w)hole complex down.

KKK warning.”

About a week later, Kidd sent another letter to O’Fallon City Hall saying, “Get all the blacks out of O’Fallon before we start burning the houses down.”

Kidd sent these threats knowing them to be false and listed false return addresses on the envelopes. Kidd pled guilty to both charges in September 2011.

On Jan. 18, Kidd was sentenced to 24 months in prison, supervised release after prison of three years, a fine of $100, and a special assessment of $200.

aldermen than we have councilmen and they get paid three times more money per year than St. Charles County councilmen. I hope the newspapers pick that up.”

Freezing county elected official’s salaries is nothing new. In 2010, the council voted unanimously to keep the salaries of seven elected county officials the same for four more years, rejecting a proposed 11.8-percent increase.

The county executive, prosecuting attorney, sheriff, collector of revenue, director of elections, recorder of deeds and assessor

will not have received a raise for eight consecutive years from 2007 through 2014.

County Executive Steve Ehlmann receives a $117,362 salary; Prosecuting Attorney Jack Banas receives $109,920; Sheriff Tom Neer receives $90,455; Assessor Scott Shipman receives $79,005 and Collector Michelle McBride, Recorder Barbara Hall and Election Director Rich Chrismer receive $76,715 each.

Rank and file county employees, however, are receiving a pay raise in 2012 – the first in three years. Almost all county

employees will receive a 1-percent increase next year. Some employees may also get a 2 percent merit increase.

But Ehlmann vetoed budget provisions that would have provided an additional one-time $1,250 salary increase for 85 Sheriff’s Department deputies with 120 or more months of service.

Pay will continue to be an issue in the coming year – with county officials looking to provide some increase in pay to deputies and the council looking at examining pay inequities.

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FEBRUARY 8, 2012 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

O’Fallon ‘identity and beautification’ plans continue

By Mary Ann O’Toole Holley O’Fallon city officials began talking about hopes to develop landscape and citywide identification plan months ago, and have moved another step closer to a plan that will beautify the city.

Councilwoman Rose Mack said with O’Fallon being the largest metropolitan area in St. Charles County, and the second largest municipality in the state, she believes beautification and identity is an important issue.

Mack suggested a subcommittee be formed with one council member from each ward serving on the committee with resident input later.

“The council would prioritize and later input from residents would be solicited,” Mack said.

The council agreed to form a subcommittee to continue to address plans to improve the city.

“Initial observations are that an ‘identity plan’ needs to identify landscaping, streetscaping, way finding entrance signage and informational hubs. All have been identified as important issues,” said City Landscape Manager Bob Deardeuff.

Budget limitations will be a key aspect of the plan development, however, Deardeuff said.

Public Works Director Steve Bender said mega-projects should occur with major construction projects, such as an interchange project where enhancements can be added, otherwise, he said beautification can be a costly endeavor.

“The city has looked at the Boone’s Crossing area and other intersections reconstructed with landscaping and city identification and many are beyond the scope of what O’Fallon can do,” said City Public Works Director Steve Bender. “At Olive and 270, a cost of $3 million was added for beautification. That added landscaping and identity created is over and above the cost of the interchange.”

Maryland Heights added $1.7 million to a project similar to an interchange planned at Hwy. K and M, Bender said.

“These costs are still significantly lower than a retrofit,” Bender said. “If you wanted to do a project alone, expenses could double. It should be incorporated into other work.”

Bender said for several years the city of St. Peters has done “identification work” along Mexico Road and has other projects planned for Mid Rivers Mall.

Bender said O’Fallon needs to set standards so they can be incorporated into new projects. The city has several interchange

projects coming up, such as the Page Avenue extension slated to move through Hwy. K and Bryan Road.

“In the past, the cities have used transportation and enhancement grants, unfortunately those funds are not readily accessible anymore,” Bender said.

As a sampling of the magnitude of costs, a decorative light pole costs $8,000 to $10,000, Bender said. Decorative tree grates are about $1,200; attractive street signs can vary from a simple one to a sign costing about $25,000, he said.

City Public Relations liaison Tom Drabelle said way finding methods would use signage to direct visitors to various areas and help them find their way through the city. Signs would match a larger theme.

“Not only can it help in identification, it can help area business owners in finding their businesses,” Drabelle said. “You can estimate closer to the $2,000 to $5,000 range for what O’Fallon would be using.”

Banners can also help with way finding, but there are expensive maintenance and manpower issues, he said.

Drabelle said with the twisting boundaries of the city, it is difficult to place consistent entrance signs. He said a structure would cost about $30,000 to $1.5 million.

Deardeuff said landscaping can have

the most effect on beautification issues, saying he envisions other plantings along highways and podium-style plantings at intersections.

“Landscaping allows a relatively costeffective retrofit,” Deardeuff said, presenting several options.

Deardeuff said irrigation would also be an important factor in landscaping issues.

“Irrigation of 20,000 square foot of turf would cost about $3,000,” Deardeuff said.

Drabelle said if the city is committed to the identity process, but to do it in the least expensive way, the city needs to look far in advance at work at new intersections.

“We are looking for a long-term commitment that this is something the city wants to see,” Drabelle said. “If you’re going to spend the money, we have to be committed to keeping it looking good. There are some areas that were once landscaped, but no longer have that nice appearance.”

Pepper said when visiting Phoenix recently, he saw rocks used to create a picturescape.

“Perhaps we could use colored rocks on a hill to create a city sign,” Pepper said.

“Whether there’s a drought or heavy rain, it would still be there. Every entrance we have needs to be different because of the terrain.”

FEBRUARY 8, 2012 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

I NEWS I 17

Fewer St. Charles County residents unemployed; rate drops to 3-year low

By Jeannie Seibert The new year brought in good news for unemployment numbers in this county.

Unemployment has dipped down to 6.6 percent, according to Don Holt, director of the county’s division of Workforce Development, who was keynote speaker at the first 2012 session of the Saint Charles County Municipal League (SCCML).

For this county that’s a 1.5 percent improvement from December 2010 when unemployment was measured at 8.1 percent.

Displaying a U.S. Department of Labor chart from December 2011 – the most recent figures available – Holt illustrated how St. Charles County is faring compared to neighboring counties.

St. Louis County has a 7.3-percent unemployment rate; Franklin County – 8.9 percent; Jefferson County – 8.5 percent; Lincoln County – 9.5 percent; and, Warren County – 8.8 percent.

“We must be doing something right,” St. Peters Mayor Len Pagano said. After a brief pause he added, “See what we can do when we all work together.”

Forgivable loans still available in O’Fallon With 10 spots available in its home improvement program, the city of O’Fallon is encouraging city homeowners to find out if they qualify for help with home repairs.

The city has forgivable five-year loans of up to $5,000 available for help in addressing code violations (such as an unsafe stairway) and home maintenance and repair.

“If you are a homeowner with a lowto-moderate income, O’Fallon’s Home Improvement Loan Program can help you get a new furnace or air conditioning, a water heater, sump pump, windows, siding, roofs, and other improvements,” said Jessica Hawkins, public assistance specialist for the city of O’Fallon. “The first step is to apply to see if you qualify.”

In general, to meet qualifications, applicants must reside in O’Fallon city limits, and also: Have owned and lived in the house to be improved for at least one year Be U.S. citizens or legal aliens (but not newly-legalized) Have a low-to-moderate income, with the total gross income of all household members age 18 and older not exceeding HUD limits Be current on mortgage payments and real estate taxes, and have no pending bankruptcies or outstanding federal, state or city tax liens.

Holt concurred. His department works closely with the municipalities and credits city hall staffs’ diligence in working to accommodate new businesses coming into the area for the best unemployment news this county has had in three years.

“September, October ’08, that’s when things really started to fall apart,” Holt said.

“We peaked at 9.9 percent but it’s starting to come back together.”

Workforce Development and the Missouri Career Center stepped up during the time of high unemployment to work with

those recently laid-off residents, offering job search services, retraining to expand skill sets, even resume preparation and job interview training exercises.

Holt noted another change in the county workforce.

“More people stay in the county to work here than those who live here and leave to work,” Holt said. “We used to be in a lot of ways a bedroom community.”

Pagano was so happy at the news he ventured to predict that 2012 would be even better. Expansion of two new manufactur-

ing facilities is already underway.

“That means more jobs will be opening up,” he said. “These are good jobs, good pay with benefits jobs.”

Cottleville hosted the January dinner meeting in the new city hall facility. A proud Mayor Don Yarber gave tours to SCCML members. Rib City catered the session.

St. Charles City Hall is to host the next meeting in the last week of March. Mayor Sally Faith said details would be forthcoming.

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Griesenauer resigns from Weldon Spring board

By Amy Armour After nearly three decades of service on the Weldon Spring Board of Aldermen, Ron Griesenauer announced his resignation from the board on Jan. 26.

Griesenauer’s term as an alderman of Ward 3 would have expired in April 2012.

He said he decided to resign earlier so he could help his replacement.

With the exception of two elections, Griesenauer has served as an alderman for Weldon Spring since it was incorporated as a village in 1984. But his involvement with the city started even before Weldon Spring was incorporated.

“I’d gone to some of the meetings leading up to incorporation. When the associate judges declared us a village, I was nearby and appointed as a trustee,” said Griesenauer, who built his home in Weldon Spring in 1977. “Over the years I matured along with the village.”

Griesenauer ran for office as a member of the Board of Trustees in the next election and the rest is history.

“I just kept coming back, like a bad penny,” Griesenauer said.

Griesenauer sat out one election. He also took a nine-month break as alderman, but he spent that time serving as the chairman of the sewer committee for the city overseeing a $1.5 million project.

While on the Board of Aldermen, Griesenauer has served on the Finance Committee and the Heritage Committee. And while his time on the board is done, Ron Griesenauer Griesenauer still plans to serve his city.

“I’ll probably be involved in some way, but I have no specific plans yet,” said Griesenauer.

In his decades of serving as a Weldon Spring alderman, Griesenauer said he will miss the people most. Griesenauer said he really enjoyed working with all of the different aldermen through the years.

“We’ll miss Ron,” said Weldon Spring Mayor Don Licklider.

Lickllider said Griesenauer brought his background as an engineer to the board.

“With his engineering background, he had cold hard facts. And when he said something we knew he had the data to prove it,” said Licklider.

But Griesenauer decided it was time to retire from his long-held seat on the board.

The former engineer plans to catch up on yard work.

County considers repealing dam inspections

By Brian Flinchpaugh St. Charles County may be getting out of the dam business – dam inspections that is.

The County Council tabled a bill at its Jan. 30 meeting that would have changed its regulation of dams, requiring inspections once every three years instead of annual inspections.

But several council members were inclined toward coming back with a bill repealing the regulations entirely.

Councilman Joe Brazil, District 2, sponsored the bill amending the inspection requirements.

“What I’m trying to do is amend it so we don’t have to inspect them except every three years,” Brazil said. “But what I would like to do is repeal the ordinance entirely so we don’t inspect these dams because we’re not in the dam inspection business.”

Brazil said the county may have overreacted in developing regulations for dams in the wake of the 2005 failure of the Taum Sauk dam in southern Missouri.

Four dams for lakes have been approved under the ordinance. The ordinance requires that the owners of the permitted dams have

annual inspections performed by a licensed professional engineer and submitted to the county.

Wayne Anthony, the county’s community development director, said two of the four dams would be higher than 35 feet, requiring a safety inspection by the state.

Construction on one of the lakes with a 35-foot high dam has been completed but no safety permit has been issued. The other 35-foot dam has not been built and may be in limbo, Anthony said. He said the state doesn’t regulate dams less than 35 feet high. Brazil said there are a lot of dams in his district in the western part of the county that are not inspected at all.

“If you want to talk about being fair, why are these people being inspected when no one else is being inspected,” Brazil said.

Brazil said the county has never had a dam break. Landowners have also complained that the inspections cost $700 to $1000.

Councilman Joe Cronin, District 1, agreed. “Over 35-foot dams, I see no sense in us inspecting them when the state is inspecting them,” Cronin said.

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Council tables vote on removing absent council members

By Brian Flinchpaugh St. Charles County Council has delayed a decision on a measure that would ask voters to approve changes that could force council members to forfeit their seats if they are physically absent from four consecutive meetings.

By a voice vote at its Jan. 30 meeting, the council agreed to a motion by Councilman Joe Cronin, District 1, to table the bill.

The council’s next meeting is scheduled for Feb. 13.

“I’d like to make a motion to table this and do a little more work on this and get this a little cleaner or not pass it at all,” Cronin said.

As it did earlier this month when it was introduced, the bill had its supporters and detractors.

“I have talked to at least 100 people in St. Charles County and have not had anybody say they don’t support it,” said Councilman Jerry Daugherty, District 6, who sponsored the bill. “They think it should be their right to decide.”

Councilman Joe Brazil, District 2, however, said that the bill was directed at Councilman Paul Wynn, District 4, and it gets the council too involved in the election process.

“This is complicated, it’s too much government. We don’t need to be involved in this,” Brazil said. “The people choose who should be in that seat. I think this is wrong.”

The council gave a first reading to Daugherty’s bill at its Jan. 9 meeting. The bill asks voters in the Nov. 6 general election to approve amendments to the County Charter that includes the forfeiture provisions. A simple majority vote would be required for passage.

The bill would also set up new provisions for filling the resulting vacancy on the council.

A council member would forfeit their office if they are “physically absent from four consecutive meetings of the council, unless excused by resolution of the council,” according to “Proposition A” of the bill. This would apply to all council members elected on or after Nov. 1.

The second part of the bill, known as “Proposition B,” would allow the county executive to fill vacancies with the approval of the council. The person selected has to be a member of the same political party as the person vacating the seat. The person selected would hold office until Jan. 1 following the next general election when a successor would be elected for the unexpired or full term.

At the Jan 9 meeting, Wynn said the bill was directed at him because he has been frequently absent from council meetings.

Wynn took a job as a military contractor

in Afghanistan last September and missed council meetings in 2009 while working in Iraq. Wynn has listened to council meetings via phone or Internet hookup but has only been allowed to cast voice votes or votes on emergency bills.

Daugherty said the bill was not directed at Wynn because it would only affect him if he were reelected in 2012. He did say that he was concerned that Wynn took his $14,375 salary and benefits while away.

The bill is patterned after a similar ordinance in St. Louis County, he said.

Wynn said at the meeting that he would no longer be taking his salary as a council member this year although he retains his health benefits.

A complicating factor is that Missouri is one of the few states that limit the use of electronic devices by elected officials who cannot physically attend meetings.

County Counselor Joann Leykam said Wynn can participate via phone in votes on emergency bills that have not been read earlier or voice votes but he is banned from roll-call voting.

In offering his motion to table this week, Cronin said he likes some aspects of the bill as far as replacing council members.

But he questioned the vagueness about what would be acceptable excuses and the council approving resolutions.

Rather than a roll call vote, the council gave a voice vote to table the bill with Wynn participating. Council Chairperson Nancy Matheny, District 3, said the vote was 4-2 in favor of tabling the bill. County officials said Daugherty and Councilman Paul Wynn, District 7, cast the no votes.

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Bu llet i n Boa rd Francis Howell Students save dad Two students at Independence Elementary were recognized and presented with the Superintendent’s Certificate at the Jan. 19 Board of Education meeting for demonstrating “incredible responsibility” during an intense situation that occurred over the holiday break.

First grader Abbie Raga called 911 when her father began having difficulty breathing. Her brother, kindergartner Andrew Raga went to the neighbor for help. The neighbor came over and assisted with the situation while Abbie articulated exactly what was happening and answered the questions of the emergency dispatcher.

Because of Abbie and Andrew’s quick thinking, their dad was back out of danger after a few days, with no permanent injury or physical side effects.

The St. Charles County Ambulance District will be using Abbie’s 911 call as an educational tool. She will also be honored at the end of the month for her heroism.

boards of education during School Board Recognition Week, as declared by Governor Jay Nixon. The commemorative week, sponsored by the Missouri School Board Association, is designed to recognize the contributions made by Missouri’s school board members and to build awareness of the vital function the board of education plays in the community.

“It takes strong schools to build a strong community, and our board members devote themselves to making sure our schools are helping every child learn,” said FHSD Superintendent Dr. Pam Sloan. “They make the tough decisions every month and spend many hours studying education issues and regulations in order to provide the kind of accountability our community expects.”

Francis Howell Board of Education members contribute countless hours serving the Francis Howell School District children, parents, staff members, and community patrons. These public servants are elected by the Francis Howell Community and do not receive compensation.

Four file for election

Board recognized During the week of Jan. 22 through Jan. 28, the Francis Howell School District joined communities across the state honoring the dedicated service of local

Four Francis Howell School District citizens will be vying for two seats on the Board of Education in the April 3, 2012 election.

The three-year terms of Marty Hodits and

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Stephen Johnson will expire in April 2012.

In the order of their filing, as their names will appear on the ballot, the school board candidates are: Marty Hodits, Stephen Johnson, Eric Seider and Marie Haupt.

The last day to register to vote for the April election is March 7.

Coaches with character Six Francis Howell Central (FHC) High School students and four FHC coaches/ sponsors attended the “Coaching for Character” seminar sponsored by CharacterPlus on Jan. 11 at Lindenwood University.

The seminar is an interactive seminar for educators and students who have devoted themselves to extracurricular activities. Students and coaches answered the question “Why do we participate?” They reflected on what is expected from participants, coaches, referees and fans, as well as assessed the sports community.

Participants also identified obstacles and worked through dilemmas, learned related strategies from pros and developed a plan of action for implementing the philosophy and ideas developed throughout the seminar.

Wentzville New school assignments The Wentzville Board of Education voted unanimously on Jan. 19 to accept the School Assignment Committee’s proposal

for new school assignments beginning in the 2012-13 school year.

Beginning in the fall, students who will graduate in 2017 (current seventh graders) and beyond will be assigned to middle school and high school based on the following: • Students residing in the boundaries of Heritage Campus, Lakeview, and Peine Ridge Elementary Schools will go to Wentzville Middle School and Holt High School.

• Students residing in the boundaries of Boone Trail, Duello, and Green Tree Elementary Schools will go to South Middle School and Timberland High School.

• Students residing in the boundaries of Crossroads, Discovery Ridge and Prairie View Elementary Schools will go to Frontier Middle School and the new high school on Sommers Road.

Current sixth graders (Class of 2018) and current seventh graders (Class of 2017) impacted by this change may apply for consideration to stay at their 2011-12 assigned middle school using special intradistrict transfer guidelines. These guidelines do not include district transportation.

These requests can be made by email, letter, or by using the form available in each school or on the District website. If granted, the transfer would only apply for middle school and the student would still attend their assigned high school under the new alignment.

Children currently in grades five through 11, who will have a sibling at another high

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NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM school, may apply using the special intradistrict guidelines to have all siblings go to the same high school. Transportation may be provided under the special intradistrict guidelines if transportation service to the neighborhood includes the requested destination campus in any given year. No student currently enrolled in high school during the 2011-12 school year can apply for transfer under this school assignment proposal.

The district will communicate directly with the families who will be impacted by the school assignment changes to be sure that they have been notified and informed of their options. Special transfer request forms are posted on the district Web site, www.wentzville.k12.mo.us.

kindergarten in the Fort Zumwalt School District and have reached the age of six before Aug. 1, may register for the first grade on the same date and at the same locations.

A valid birth certificate, proof of residency and immunization records must be presented at the time of registration. Every child entering kindergarten in a public elementary school must also receive one comprehensive vision examination performed by a state licensed optometrist or physician.

Immunizations may be scheduled through the St. Charles County Health Department.

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Qualley named Nota Bene author

Cans for the needy DuBray Middle School Student Council members collected more than 1,000 canned goods for the O.A.S.I.S. food pantry this holiday season.

As part of the campaign “Helping Hands Bring in Cans,” students collected cans in the morning before school. For every five cans donated, students wrote their names on a handprint and placed it on the banner.

STUCO had great participation and intends to run another food drive in the spring.

Students help local residents DuBray Middle School National Junior Honor Society students participated in two service projects this holiday season.

Students created hundreds of Christmas and holiday cards for nursing home residents, writing messages in the cards and decorating the envelopes with beautiful artwork and mint candies.

Students also adopted a family that was in need. Students donated items on the list and stayed after school to wrap the items for the family. A NJHS student helped grant a special wish when she donated her guitar after paying for the restringing with her allowance money.

Registration starts March 1 Registration for incoming kindergarteners in the Fort Zumwalt School District for the 2012 -13 school year will take place from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. on March 1 at Dardenne, Emge, J. L. Mudd, Mount Hope, St. Peters, Progress South, Hawthorn, Twin Chimneys, Ostmann, Rock Creek, Mid Rivers, Pheasant Point and Westhoff elementary schools.

To be eligible for kindergarten, a child must have reached the age of five before Aug. 1. Children who have not attended

I schools I 21

SCC St. Charles Community College alumna Danielle Qualley was one of 16 Phi Theta Kappa members to be named a “Nota Bene” author. Her essay, “In the Face of Adversity,” was chosen from among 950 entries for publication in the 2011 edition of “Nota Bene,” the society’s honors anthology.

“Nota Bene” was founded in 1994 to showcase exceptional writing among community college students. Copies of “Nota Bene” are distributed to all community college libraries and to Phi Theta Kappa leaders.

Qualley received an associate of arts degree from SCC in 2011 and currently is studying psychology at the University of Missouri-Columbia. She graduated from Francis Howell High School in 2009.

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“We are planning to recruit some of the highest-rated competitors in the world,” said Tim Canavan, Lindenwood’s director of student life sports. “We are also going to recruit people who aren’t at the elite level yet, but want to get there. Our interest is competing, promoting the wonderful game of chess, and providing a way for young people to get a good education.”

Canavan said the university has been collaborating with the Chess Club and Scholastic Center of Saint Louis, which is known internationally for its quality.

Lindenwood already is on the recruiting trail, and is building a collegiate schedule with plans to compete in the fall.

For information, call Lauren Nystrom at 949-4949.

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in the Francis Howell School (please remember if you sign off, you are saying that the information in theStudents ad is correct.)

District will have the opportunity to learn

Photos taken, layout, design and/or any logos created by Flash Flyer Publications Inc., for this ad or any other Flash Flyer Advertisement are the property of a new language outside of the Flash Flyer Publications Inc. All rights are reserved. For information on how to obtain art work and/or logos for personal or business use, please contact your classroom sales rep.

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636-332-2809 phone • 636-332-6041 fax • email: info@flashflyer.com The FHSD has partnered with Rosetta This form contains information which (a) is Legally Privileged, Proprietary in nature, or otherwise protected by law from disclosureStone and (b) istointended for the useteachers, of the business listed offeronly students, parents above. You are hereby notified that by copying or distributing this information for any other use is strictly prohibited.

Rev 5/11/2011 ©Flash Flyer Publications Inc and community members the opportunity to learn one of 25 languages through a oneyear, online subscription to Rosetta Stone.

The cost is discounted to $100 per learner, as opposed to $500.

“The cost is considerably lower than normal,” said Travis Bracht, director of student learning for the FHSD. “It can be used anytime and anywhere there is a connection to the Internet.”

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While students as young as third grade could learn a new language though the online program, Bracht said it is geared toward older participants, from middleschool aged to adult.

Bracht said the online subscription will give students the ability to begin learning and being exposed to a new language in a risk-free environment, as no grades or credit are given.

“Rosetta Stone offers different languages than are traditionally offered in schools and the delivery of the instruction is also different than what they would receive in school,” said Bracht.

Bracht said it also helps a student decide if they are interested in a language before they sign up for it at school.

“This also allows students to begin learning a second language at an earlier language than is currently possible through school,” said Bracht.

The program will be offered for one year.

FEBRUARY 8, 2012 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

I schools I 23

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FZ South High School celebrates its 25th anniversary

By Amy Armour Fort Zumwalt South High School celebrated its 25th anniversary last week with a series of events designed to immerse students and staff in the history of the high school.

The school opened in the 1980s. Students got a taste of the nostalgia by listening to 1980s music played over the speakers in between classes, and by dressing in ‘80s attire all week. Photographs and mementos of the high school were displayed, special assemblies were held, and alumni students and staff toured the current school during an open house on Feb. 3.

“All week long we had activities to get the current students and staff involved in the history of the school,” said Angie Hahn, principal at South High School.

Fort Zumwalt South opened in 1987 to 684 freshmen and sophomore students.

Phase one of the high school included a wing of classrooms, shop, a choir room, and locker rooms — that were also considered the boiler room.

The original staff included just 24 teachers - two of those teachers still teach at the school today.

Special education teacher Chris Blevins and French teacher Carla Beck were honored at half time during a basketball game last week. Both teachers plan to retire at the end of this school year.

The high school now has about 1,300 students and a staff of 102 teachers. As the amount of students has grown over the years, so have the sports program and the number of extracurricular activities.

When FZS originally opened students could play all kinds of different sports at the junior varsity level, but most were not

played on campus.

Hahn said the first phase of the high school did not include a track, stadium or gymnasium. Football, track and tennis games were played at Fort Zumwalt North High school, which opened in the 1960s.

The swim team practiced at the St. Charles YMCA and South Middle School hosted wrestling meets, basketball and volleyball games.

The gymnasium was completed for the 1989-90 school year, and by the 1990-91 school year, the football stadium and tennis courts were completed. The high school could now host games and meets.

The number of clubs at the school has grown tremendously over the years. The school only originally offered nine clubs on campus. Today students can participate in as many as 38 clubs.

“We have a lot more opportunities for students to get involved in school,” Hahn said.

By the second year, as the high school added another grade level, the building expanded. In 1988-89, a two-story wing was added that included additional classrooms, a library, administrative offices and the guidance office.

The high school added more space in the 1995-96 school year with another classroom addition and a smaller gym. In 200001 the school made its latest additions—an auditorium and band room.

With all the additions and changes through the years, Hahn said the history of the school and its students makes Fort Zumwalt South special.

“A lot of our kids that have gone here, now have kids that go here,” Hahn said.

“Our school spirit is amazing.”

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FEBRUARY 8, 2012 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

Spor t s Lindenwood cagers break 20-win mark for third straight season

By Jonathan Duncan The month of January finished with a bang for the Lindenwood Lions basketball team and allowed the Lions to move into a special place for another season.

Thanks to victories over McKendree University on Jan. 25, Lincoln University on Jan. 28, and Culver-Stockton on Jan. 31, the Lions recorded its third consecutive 20-win season under Coach Brad Soderberg.

In addition, Lindenwood which entered last week with a gaudy 21-2 mark, entered the month of February with a six-game winning streak.

On the road at McKendree University in Lebanon, Ill., the Lions picked up its 20th win of the season in upending the host Bearcats 78-71.

Lindenwood jumped out to an early eight-point lead but the Bearcats battled back late in the first half to keep the game close. An up and down second half pushed the Lions to the wire as McKendree pulled

to within 74-71 with just under 6 minutes to play.

McKendree would get no closer as the Lions hit four free-throws in the final minutes to slam the door shut.

Alex Bazzell led Lindenwood with 17 points while Cody Sorenson and Garrett Reeg notched double-doubles with 14 points, 14 rebounds and 14 points, 10 rebounds respectively.

Three days later, the Lions returned home to Hyland Performance Arena to face the Lincoln University Blue Tigers.

The Lions got double-figure scoring from six players and rolled to a dominating 85-61 victory over Lincoln University.

Lincoln did its scoring damage down near the basket in the first half as the Lions pumped in 18 points in the paint and rolled to a 41-26 halftime cushion.

After the intermission, Lincoln managed to claw back to within nine points of the Lions.

Shooting a robust 55 percent from the

Lindenwood’s Tyler Ressel (31) drives to the basket against Culver-Stockton’s Colt Carper (34) and Dusan Kojic (21). Culver-Stockton’s Justin Ellison (12) gets caught behind the play.

floor, the Lions peeled off 33-point outburst during an 8-minute stretch in the second half to put the game away with relative ease.

Lindenwood shot a crisp 33 percent from beyond the three-point arc as four starters scored in double figures. Kramer Soderberg paced the Lions with 17 points and four assists while Bazzell scored 12 points with a game-high seven assists.

Richie Thompson chipped in 10 points and 11 rebounds, recording his second double-double of the season and Garrett

Reeg scored 10 points.

Tyler Ressel and Michael Boos also provided a big boost off the bench scoring 14 points and 11 points.

The Lions finished out the month of January last Tuesday with an easy 85-59 home victory over Culver-Stockton. Senior guard Kramer Soderberg broke the 1,000 career points plateau in the win with a team-high 18 points.

Soderberg became the seventh Lions player all-time to break the 1,000 point career mark at Lindenwood.

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FEBRUARY 8, 2012 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

Cardiac arrest survivor delivers heartfelt message: ‘Live to Dance’

By SUE HORNOF Ellen Abramson looks like the picture of health. The 54-year-old area resident is pretty and fit. She works as a Weight Watchers leader and loves to work out.

But three years ago, Abramson was far from healthy. In April 2008, at the age of 51, she suffered cardiac arrest.

“I was literally dead,” Abramson said. “I wasn’t breathing; my heart wasn’t beating.”

It happened on a Sunday morning. She had plans to attend a Cardinals baseball game with her family and celebrate her daughter’s 27th birthday over dinner at Bristol, but those plans were not to be.

A little after 9 a.m., Abramson experienced sudden chest pain. She began sweating profusely and felt a burning sensation in her chest.

About 40 minutes after those initial symptoms, Abramson arrived at the emergency room of a local hosptial, where Dr. Greg Beirne was just beginning his shift.

According to Beirne, who recalled the details of that morning in “Live to Dance,” Abramson’s new book about women and heart disease, his patient was in the right place at the right time.

“She arrived at 10:08 a.m., experienced a cardiac arrest 18 minutes later, and was resuscitated within 30 seconds,” Beirne wrote.

“She was in the cardiac cath lab 30 minutes later. This type of scenario could not be planned better – all of the people and resources needed were in the right place at the right time. … A delay of just five or 10 minutes could have been the difference between life and death.”

In the weeks leading up to that day, Abramson knew that something was not right.

“I was trying to work full-time, and I had no energy,” she said. “I was a person who would work out at least an hour six days a week, and I couldn’t do much but lay on the couch. I was totally exhausted.”

Although she kept regular OB-GYN appointments and had an annual mammogram, Abramson was “kind of afraid of doctors” and avoided check-ups with an internist.

But the exhaustion and nagging heartburn prompted her to seek medical advice.

“I went to a ‘doc-in-the-box’ because I didn’t want a thorough exam,” she said.

“There was never a conversation about heart health. He just gave me an antacid and told me to slow down.”

Now, Abramson wants other women to know their heart disease risks, something about which she knew very little until after her ordeal.

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“Live to Dance,” by Ellen Abramson, is available at Barnes and Noble, amazon.com and authorhouse.com.

Facebook.com/midriversnewsmagazine “I got home from the hospital, I went to the computer, and I read, “One in three women die from heart disease – and I literally thought it was a man’s disease. I lost both grandfathers to heart disease, and I had no idea that I needed to concern myself.

I learned that more women die from heart disease than the top five leading causes of death.”

Still dealing with what she calls “survivor’s guilt,” she feels she is “supposed to” get the word out to other women.

“You have to be proactive, and you have to understand you your heart health risks,” she said. “Do you need to lose weight?

What is your BMI (body mass index)?

What is your waist measurement? What is your cholesterol? Do you smoke? Do you exercise? Do you have diabetes? What is your blood pressure?

“You have to go to an internist that you trust, and you need to have a conversation. Since one in three women die from heart disease, I don’t care if it’s not in your family or not – you need to have that conversation with your doctor.”

Abramson admitted that she hopes her book will scare women into being proactive about heart health.

“My children and my husband write in the book about what it’s like to watch that (cardiac arrest) happen,” she said. “The mantra of the book is me dancing at my daughter’s wedding. … Your kids want you to be there on their birthdays. They want you to be there a their weddings.”

“What’s Wrong with this Picture?”

The amazing story finally told right here…

Dear friend, You may have seen this picture before in some of my other articles. Let me tell you something about it that may be fascinating to you, and may actually help save you thousands of dollars.

What he found was shocking. The claims were divided into people that used chiropractic, and people that used medicine. The ones that used chiropractic had “significantly lower health care costs, on the order of $1,000 each over the two-year period.”

The man in the photo is me. I look pretty happy; and that’s because I am! It’s also because I have one of the best jobs in the world!

It’s the body that is the miracle worker. In fact, I’ve never healed anyone of anything. What I do is perform a specific spinal adjustment to remove nerve pressure, and the body responds by healing itself!! We get tremendous results. And it’s as simple as that!

The little girl is Reese. She’s a pretty happy kindergartener.

What if I told you that in the last ten years, I missed only 7 days of work because of sickness?

How You Can Benefit if You Act Now: When you respond to this offer you’ll receive my entire new patient exam for just $37. That’s with x-rays, thermal imaging… the whole ball of wax. This exam could cost you $350 elsewhere.

But, please call right away because this terrific offer will expire promptly on March 1, 2012.

And, what if I told you that Reese (5-years-old), unlike many of her little classmates, rarely ever gets the “common” childhood problems like ear infections, colds, and the flu?

So, what’s so wrong with the photo? What’s wrong is that only about 11% of Americans know what we know. Let me tell a story that may help explain.

It was twenty years ago when my whole world changed.

I was a just another athletic teenage boy playing with his friends in upstate New York, until I developed a series of “ear and sinus infections.”

But, then something happened that turned my world upside down.

Out of the blue, I developed deeper and more painful “sinus infections and headaches.” In my case it came on suddenly. The pain in my sinuses, ears, nose and chest was so intense that there were times when I could hardly breathe, and would have to lay down in bed. I was afraid that I’d lose my confidence in myself if the disability continued. After considering surgery (that was the only option, according to the surgeon) I decided against it. But there’s more…

That’s me (Dr. Jason Hamed) with my daughter, Reese getting her first bicycle!

Many other studies show that people save money on their health care expenses by seeing a chiropractor. If you are self-employed, you know how important being able to work is! So, no, I don’t think it’s coincidence!

Again, what’s, wrong with the picture? So many of us are blindly taking drugs that can often be dangerous, when there are often safe alternates.

Maybe everyone should be in this photo…

People from all over town come to see me with their sinus and headache problems. Also they come to me with their migraines, chronic pain, neck pain, shoulder/arm pain, whiplash from car accidents, backaches, ear infections, asthma, allergies, numbness in limbs, athletic injuries, just to name a few.

My uncle convinced my parents to try chiropractic.

The chiropractor did an exam, took some films, and then “adjusted” my spine. The adjustment didn’t hurt – in fact, it actually felt good! I got relief, and I began breathing normal again, and my headaches went away! That’s when I told my friends I was going to become a chiropractor.

Here’s what some of my patients had to say:

Some could say it’s pure luck that we enjoy such good health. Maybe, but I don’t think so. I’ll tell you why I think that. A 1994 study showed that chiropractic may double your immune capacity.

That could translate into less time off from work, less prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs, and less visits to the doctor.

“No more neck pain for me, and the entire process was painless!”

Dan Busekrus, - Troy

Here’s something else. A few years back, a researcher studied the records of 395,641 patients.

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Being a chiropractor can be tough, because there’s a host of so-called experts out there. They tell people a lot of things that are just plain ridiculous about my profession. Don’t just trust me – ask our patients! More than 90% of our patients return, and what that means is that we have massive success helping our patients!!

“I had headaches for years, and went to several specialists, did all the tests – with no results. Then I saw Dr. Jason, and within 3 weeks, I was 90% better!”

Christie Dempsey, (nurse) - St.Charles

“The back pain was excruciating and I could barely move. 2 weeks later, and I’m completely back to normal! Thank you Dr. Jason and team for caring and treating me like family!!”

Diane Papageorge, - O’Fallon

“Great care at a great value…” Please, I hope that there’s no misunderstanding about quality of care just because I have a lower exam fee. You’ll get great care at a great value! My qualifications…

I’m a graduate of both Skidmore College and Logan College. I’ve published articles in leading international journals, and I’ve been entrusted to take care of everyone from newborn babies to professional athletes. I’ve even traveled as far as the Dominican Republic to serve the people in need of care. After practicing in Tulsa for three years, I moved my practice to O’Fallon. I just have that low fee to help more people who need care.

My assistant is Nicole and she is a really great person! Our office is both friendly and warm and we try our best to make you feel at home.

We have a wonderful service, at an exceptional value. Our office is called The CHIROPRACTIC WELLNESS CONNECTION and we’re at 111 O’Fallon Commons Drive (a block from Hwy K and N intersection).

Our phone number is 636-978-0970. Call Nicole or me today for an appointment. We can help you.

Thank you.

Dr. Jason Hamed

P.S. Bring your family with you! I’ll do the same examination on them for a $10 donation to “Feed the Children” – that’s it – just a $10 donation for a great cause!

P.P.S. Can you imagine not having to wait at a doctor’s office?! Well, we know your time is valuable. That’s why we have a no-wait policy! You will be seen within minutes of your appointment – guaranteed!!

FEBRUARY 8, 2012 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

SSM St. Joseph Hospital West joins ‘Partnership for Patients’ initiative SSM St. Joseph Hospital West, in Lake Saint Louis, is stepping up its efforts to make health care safer and less costly by participating in the “Partnership for Patients” initiative, a federally approved and federally supported initiative to make hospitals across the United States safer.

Partnership for Patients was established by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Innovation Center (CMS) as a public-private partnership that offers support to physicians, nurses and other clinicians working in and out of hospitals to keep patients from getting injured or sicker while in the hospital so they can heal without complications.

All 16 SSM Health Care hospitals, of which SSM St. Joseph Hospital West is a member, have joined with the Premier healthcare alliance.

Premier, a performance improvement alliance of hospitals and other health care

organizations working together to achieve high quality, cost-effective care, is one of 26 organizations approved by CMS to participate in the initiative. More than 540 hospitals across the country are partnering with Premier to participate in Partnership for Patients.

As a member of the Partnership for Patients initiative, SSM St. Joseph Hospital West and all SSM Health Care hospitals will focus on reducing preventable readmissions to hospitals by 20 percent and reducing preventable hospital-acquired conditions by 40 percent over the next three years.

CMS estimates this partnership has the potential to save 60,000 lives and reduce millions of preventable injuries and complications in patient care over the next three years. It also has the potential to save as much as $35 billion, including up to $10 billion in Medicare savings.

Blunt cosponsors new Keystone XL Pipeline bill U.S. Senator Roy Blunt (Mo.) cosponsored bipartisan legislation Jan. 30, that was introduced by U.S. senators John Hoeven (N.D.), Richard Lugar (Ind.), and David Vitter (La.) to authorize the construction and operation of the Keystone XL Pipeline.

“More American energy means more American jobs, and this is the largest shovel-ready project in our country today,” Blunt said. “Yet, despite his rhetoric in support of an ‘all-of-the-above’ energy strategy, President (Barack) Obama opted to put politics before good policy when he rejected the Keystone XL Pipeline.

“This project would create 20,000 American jobs, generate $20.9 billion in new pri-

vate sector spending, reinforce America’s energy security, and benefit 1,400 American job creators – all without costing taxpayers a dime,” Blunt said.

“This project is good for America’s job creation and energy independence, and that’s why I’m proud to join my colleagues to co-sponsor this bill.”

In addition to Blunt, the bill is cosponsored by a bipartisan group of 44 Senators.

Despite President Barack Obama’s recent decision to block the project, the Keystone XL Pipeline continues to garner broad bipartisan and public support, because of its ability to help create thousands of American jobs and reduce America’s dependence on foreign oil, Blunt said.

Free large-item drop-off for O’Fallon residents O’Fallon residents are invited to take advantage of the city’s free quarterly dropoff service for many items that are too large to fit into curbside trash containers. Acceptable items can be brought to O’Fallon’s waste transfer station from 7 a.m. until 3 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 18. The transfer station address is 1572 Progress West Lane in O’Fallon.

Acceptable items for drop-off include: furniture, carpets, swing sets, bikes, toddler pools, sports and exercise equipment, large hand tools, barbecue grills, fluorescent tubes, computer monitors and televisions.

Lawn mowers, except riding mowers, also are accepted, but gas and oil tanks must be empty.

Unacceptable items include yard waste, appliances, tires, auto parts, batteries, gas, oil, transmission fluid, and liquid household hazardous waste: paint, solvents, pesticides, fungicides, herbicides and their containers.

Drop-offs are limited to one load per household. Only cars, pickup trucks, and small trailers measuring no more than 10 feet long will be allowed.

Residents also can choose to have many large items picked up at the curb yearround by calling Environmental Services at 272-0477, or contacting staff by e-mail, at ofallonrecycles@ofallon.mo.us. The cost for the service is $20 per truck hopper for curbside collection.

I NEWS I 29

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Go ahead and make a splash

By SUE HORNOF Technically speaking, the kitchen backsplash has a function: It provides a washable surface for kitchen splatter. But from a style standpoint, the backsplash also works as an accessory – a design element that makes a statement and can add an exclamation point to the room’s overall design.

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Pictured are a close-up of a sample design (inset) and a rendering of the installed backsplash.

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Julie Baum, owner of BaumHouse Design in Valley Park, which specializes in kitchens and baths, said today’s hottest trend in backsplashes is to incorporate glass tiles into the overall design.

“Glass tiles, depending on pattern and size, are not inexpensive, but we are seeing them used in conjunction with other porcelain or ceramic tile, which makes the cost affordable,” Baum, a past president of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), said.

Glass tiles can be combined also with natural stone products, as illustrated in this photo of a glass and slate backplash. Glass tiles are easy to clean and maintain, are available in an infinite color palette, and, Baum said, as much as to 97 percent of glass tile is made from recycled pre- and post-consumer materials.

(Photo courtesy of BaumHouse Design)

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The “Bouillabaisse” backsplash from Gnosis illustrates the flexibility of designing with stone mosaic tiles. The Atlanta, Ga.-based company crafts mosaics to specification in a single piece, then cuts and numbers pieces for shipping and on-site installation by a professional.

(Photo courtesy of Gnosis)

FEBRUARY 8, 2012 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

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32 I DECOR I

FEBRUARY 8, 2012 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

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Why do bathroom fans sometimes not What causes condensation on windows, work properly?

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NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

I DECOR I 33

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34 I cover story I

FEBRUARY 8, 2012 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

Long-distance

By Mary Ann O’Toole Holley A candlelight dinner for two; champagne and chocolates at the door; a robust hug and an “I love you” all fill the bill for a beautiful Valentine’s Day. This Valentine’s Day, however, love will span the miles for many, and heartfelt sparks will sail through cyberspace as many paramours enjoy a virtual relationship with only a few helpful hints and the help of the computer program Skype and webcams.

Ron Hawley, 23, will be sitting with his feet up in his Chicago apartment on Valentines Day and his girlfriend, Heather Frank, 24, will be comfortably lounging in St. Charles County. Still, they will dine together, watch a romantic movie or two and maybe even wrap it up with a little cyber romance.

“It’s not as bad as it used to be when you’re separated by the miles,” says Hawley. “Oh, sure, I love it when my girlfriend is in Chicago physically with me, but I’ve got graduate school and responsibilities. So, we do what we can to be together and keep the relationship going.”

Every Wednesday night, Hawley and his girlfriend watch their favorite TV shows together and even comment or laugh together about certain scenes when the time is right.

“Well…We can’t exactly watch the TV shows together because my TV is about 10 seconds ahead of his, so we had to come up with rules so we didn’t give away what would happen next,” Frank said.

But in the corner of the screen is a live feed of their faces with the help of Skype, an online video calling service that bills itself as a service that “makes it easy to be together, even when you’re not.”

“We text and email throughout the day and talk every night. We also often have pseudo-dates where we will go do the same thing in our own respective towns,” Frank said. “For example, we often have ‘movie dates’ where we rent the same movie and watch it at exactly the same time. During the movie, we can watch each other’s facial expressions and text each other silly quotes or observations.”

When the show is on, Frank said, they mute Skype and watch the movie together. During commercials or breaks, they talk.

“We traded pillows. He has one of mine and I have one of his,” said Frank, noting that it makes them feel closer.

“We just make sure to talk to each other as much as possible. We make sure we know each other’s schedules, and it’s almost like being together.”

Frank, a graduate of Lindenwood University has a bachelor’s degree in psychology, and says studies have shown that it makes a person feel better when they know what their beloved’s day is like or what the weather is like where that person lives. Frank tracks the Chicago weather on her smartphone, so she always knows what it’s like in Chicago.

She said she believes it’s paramount to defy the distance. Relationship experts say as a long-distance couple, it’s important to do other things together besides the usual phone call. In a longdistance relationship, interaction over the phone can become dull in the long run. Incorporating other forms of interaction is important.

People in short-distance relationships do not spend the majority of their time talking, but rather doing things with each other. Experts urge long-distance couples to try to replicate regular relationships by finding fun things to do together—or at least simultaneously.

“We registered on a game site, ‘pogo. com’ and we play dominoes, but there are a bunch of other games on there, so we do have some fun interactions,” Frank said. “You can do a pop out window for the Skype, so that I still have his image on the screen, even when we play the games.”

Frank says with today’s technology, it’s a far cry from when her parents or grandparents were dating and when her grandfather went off to war.

“My grandma has a box of frayed letters rubber banded in an old box,” Frank said. “That’s romantic in an old-fashioned way, and I guess we won’t have Skype rubber banded in our closet as we age, but if we didn’t have this, I don’t know what we’d be doing. Even now, we can call with cell phones and not pay.

Free texts help send our thoughts.”

Tashi Trulgu has a much longer distance issue, complete with opposite time zones. He does, however, continue his relationships back home in the Himalayan Mountains of India with the help of webcams and technological advances.

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

Love “You can send pictures from your phone to show your friends what you’re doing,” Trulgu said. “Facebook helps a lot, but Skype offers free calling, and I can speak with my girlfriend from India at her school in New York.”

Trulgu said he and his girlfriend often watch sporting events taking place in Brazil while they are both sitting at opposite points of the world.

Hammering out the art of the longdistance relationship is an important aspect to consider. Experts in the art say it’s important to layout relationship expectations and to become fabulous communicators. Communication through technology also helps couples become great listeners, a characteristic that can pay off in relationships in the long run.

There are several Web sites that can advise young couples on keeping up their long-distance relationships. One suggests taking a virtual romantic vacation.

Pick the places you’ve always wanted to take a trip to and explore at 360Cities. net where various city sites allow you to click on any image from city site homepages and your browser will open a full, 360-degree panorama visualization of a street scene, museum, neighborhood, restaurant, bar, hotel and more. In the side bar you’ll see a thumbnail list of nearby locations. Start clicking and take a virtual tour through the area.

Google Maps can take you on a similar stroll down a busy New York Street, the shopping district on Honolulu or to a bar along Bourbon Street.

For a really cheap thrill, ask your faraway boyfriend or girlfriend to walk past a public live webcam at his or her college. Most schools have them, and if they don’t, there are websites that locate particular webcams.

This Valentine’s Day, even if you’re still looking for love, there are options.

Of course you could sign on to a video dating service and try to meet someone, but you can also go to live chat rooms where someone just might spark your fancy.

“My son has been wanting to meet someone, and he goes online and usually does pretty well finding someone to chat with,” said Mary Keene of St. Charles County. “As long as you keep an eye on things, it’s been working out well.”

Use paper?

Add some extra ‘Love’ to your Valentine

By Mary Ann O’Toole Holley If you could sift through the contents of an average U.S. Postal Service mailbag, about 50 percent is junk mail, 40 percent business and about 10 percent personal letters. But on Valentine’s Day, the Postal Service pulls out its big bags.

Valentine’s Day is the second most important greeting card occasion of the year besides Christmas. According to Hallmark Cards, Americans typically send more than 150 million cards for Valentine’s Day, and many of those cards are usually adorned with the Postal Service’s expected annual “Love” stamps.

“I don’t think the Love stamp is intended for Valentine’s Day. More typically, it’s used on wedding announcements,” said Valerie Hughes, the Metro St. Louis Postal Service media relations representative.

To order call 800-782-6724 or visit USPS.com.

Hughes said the official dedicating ceremony is on Feb. 14, but due to popular demand, the stamps will be released prior to the originally scheduled date.

But there are other ways to be creative in expressing your love.

Every year as Valentine’s Day approaches U.S. postmasters in places like Loveland, Colorado 80538; Romance, Arkansas 72136; Valentine, Texas 79854; and Loving, New Mexico 88256, receive thousands of Valentines through the Postal Service’s re-mailing program so that their love-related postmarks will surprise recipients.

To get a romantic postmark on your special Valentine, place your stamped, addressed Valentine’s Day cards in a larger envelope and mail the package to Postmaster (town name of choice), Valentine re-mailing, city, state and ZIP code.

Other towns involved in the Valentine re-mailing program are: Bliss, New York 14024; Darling, Mississippi 38623; Eros, Louisiana 71238; Heart Butte, Montana 59448; and Kissimmee, Florida 34744.

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Auto Mall Drive O’Fallon, MO 63368

636-946-6300

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36 I Mature focus I

FEBRUARY 8, 2012 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

When hearing aids fail, cochlear implants may help

By SUE HORNOF Hearing loss can have a profound impact on one’s quality of life. Those who struggle to hear are limited in their ability to communicate with family and friends, and that can cause a person to feel isolated, which can quickly lead to feelings of loneliness and depression. Because hearing loss limits a person’s ability to understand a doctor’s advice or hear sirens and alarms, it also poses safety concerns.

According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, one in three people older than 60 and half of those older than 85 have hearing loss. Hearing aids provide benefits for many people, but for those not helped by them, cochlear implants might be a solution.

“Cochlear implants can be an option for individuals with severe to profound permanent hearing impairment who receive limited benefit from well-fit, traditional hearing aids,” said Dr. Kathy Holtman, an audiologist at Central Institute for the Deaf in St. Louis. “There are FDA guidelines regarding who is considered a candidate

for cochlear implantation. … Both a medical and an audiologic evaluation are necessary to determine whether FDA guidelines have been met.”

The implant device consists of an internal component and several external components that are surgically implanted by an ear, nose and throat (ENT) surgeon. The surgeon places the internal piece beneath the skin behind the outer ear and threads its array of electrodes through the inner ear into the bends of the cochlea.

External components – which include the magnet/transmitter, a cable, speech processor and a battery source – look similar to a behind-the-ear hearing aid.

Cochlear implant surgery takes about two to five hours, and there is an outpatient, post-surgery hospital stay of 24 hours or less, Holtman said.

“The patient typically leaves the hospital with a dressing on the incision site and returns to the surgeon within approximately two weeks for a post-operative check-up,” she said. “The surgical site swelling must subside and healing begin prior to the activation of the implant. For this reason,

The external components of a cochlear implant look similar to a behind-the-ear hearing aid.

(Photo courtesy of Med-El)

the external components are not delivered – and no sounds are activated – until two to four weeks post-surgery.”

After a post-operative visit with the surgeon, the implant user begins a series

of appointments with an audiologist who programs the electrodes, and that is when results become apparent.

See COCHLEAR IMPLANT, page 37

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FEBRUARY 8, 2012 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

I mature focus I 37

Mature Focus

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

Area woman connects generations through legacy letters

By SHEILA FRAYNE RHOADES Peggy Greenwood knows how important a late loved one’s history can be to surviving family members. Greenwood’s own mother recently passed away, at which time family and friends celebrated her life at a memorial mass. The program included an eloquently written memoir by Greenwood herself, and it laughter and tears to an already touching story.

Greenwood, a local, professional personal historian, has found a niche writing similar pieces – which she calls legacy letters. A legacy letter, Greenwood explained, is a document that chronicles the uniqueness, personal history, beliefs or achievements that an individual wishes to preserve. It may be a letter, an ethical will, a personal story, a poem, short reminiscences, life lessons and more.

Greenwood’s philosophy is simple: Every ordinary person has an extraordinary story waiting to be told. She believes that story is the most valuable gift a person can present to his or her family. She tailors her work to meet the wishes and personality of each client.

In other words, as she has posted on her website, “A last will and testament hands down valuables, a legacy letter hands down values.”

“Legacy, sometimes called ‘personal history,’ is the name given to the recording of the stories of contemporaries, as opposed to the family stories that are family histories,” Greenwood said. “Just as impor-

tant as preserving physical items for descendants is the preservation of values. It is a personal story of achievements, struggles, victories, defeats, joys, sorrows, hobbies, Peggy Greenwood beliefs and/or values to be treasured long after any material inheritance is dispersed.”

Greenwood’s professional background includes a bachelor’s degree in history and a master’s degree in sociology, with an emphasis on social history. She taught for 10 years at the high school and college levels and has written dozens of articles for newspapers and magazines.

“For the past 30 years, I’ve been passionately involved in genealogy, having completed research for clients as far away as Venice, Italy,” Greenwood said. “I have worked for lawyers searching for legitimate heirs and heirs seeking the provenance of a family heirloom. Along the way I encountered story after story that needed to be recorded. I began telling people of the importance of composing their own family stories, and recording them while they had the chance.”

More on creating a legacy letter to pass down to loved ones can be found at visheritage.net.

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COCHLEAR IMPLANT, from page 36

removed in the (surgeon’s) office prior to Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and “The programming of the electrodes is then replaced,” she said, adding that the called ‘mapping’ and consists of listening external device should be removed at airfor the electrical pulses until audible and port security checkpoints, and the ENT’s comfortable,” Holtman said. “The first recommendation should be sought regardmapping is a productive one, and after ing contact sport activities that might cause about an hour of listening, the person does head injury. leave with an active map. In other words, The cost of getting a cochlear implant is this is when the patient first hears sounds.” more than $30,000, but the bulk of that is There are several more mapping appoint- rarely out-of-pocket, Holtman said. Payments over the course of several weeks, ment is requested through insurance comand follow-up visits might include audi- panies or other third-party payers, and tory rehabilitation appointments to teach Medicare and Medicaid have policies in the individual how to listen with the new place regarding coverage.

While a cochlear implant does not restore implant.

Asked about limitations for cochlear normal hearing, “it does help to re-establish implant users, Holtman said there are sur- audibility of soft sounds and ease spoken communication,” Holtman said. prisingly few.

For the person who strains to hear on a “Depending on which internal implant is placed, the internal magnet may need to be daily basis, that sounds pretty good.

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TriCounty Family YMCA No smoking texts for teens 636.332.5574 drinks could be endangering their health. www.ymcastlouis.org/tricounty According to a study presented at the ymcastlouis.org/ofallonIt is never to soon to quit smoking – and American Heart Association’s Scientific that applies even to those who are still in TriCounty Family YMCA ymcastlouis.org/stcharles Sessions 2011, women who had two or their teens. But according to Dr. Yvonne 636.332.5574 High numbers on high blood pressure more sugar-sweetened beverages a day had Hunt, a teen smoking expert with the higher risk of developing those lesions www.ymcastlouis.org/tricounty High blood pressure is a huge problem in when they get older. The study indicates a four times greater risk of developing type National Institutes of Health, smoking YMCA’S America, according to the latest numbers that the risk of what is called “benign breast 2 diabetes than those who had only one cessation programs often are designed for from the U.S. Department of Health and disease” rises even more among teens who sugary drink a day, and they also put them- adults, and teens think and talk differently Human Services’ Agency for Healthcare drink. selves at a higher risk for heart disease. than adults and even have different smokResearch and Quality (AHRQ).

“There have been lots of studies, includ- ing patterns.

That is what Washington University’s ymcastlouis.org/ofallon ymcastlouis.org/ofallon ymcastlouis.org/ofallon “One in every four adults, representing To help teens kick the habit, Hunt and Dr. Graham Colditz saw in data on more ing this one, that have shown that higher ymcastlouis.org/stcharles ymcastlouis.org/stcharles some 55 million Americans, was treated consumption of sugar-sweetened beverher co-workers developed a texting tool than 6,000 girls followed from ages 9-15 ymcastlouis.org/stcharles ymcastlouis.org/ofallon for high blood pressure in 2008,” said to 18-27. ages can lead to the development of car- called SmokefreeTXT. Teens who sign up ymcastlouis.org/stcharles Karen Davis, AHRQ analyst.

“Avoiding alcohol intake clearly will diovascular disease and its risk factors,” for the program receive six weeks of teenymcastlouis.org/ofallon That number accounts only for those prevent the accumulation of breast cancer said Christina Shay, of the University of friendly texts, which are sent to their cell who ymcastlouis.org/stcharles sought treatment. Because high blood risk – period,” Colditz said.

Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. phones. pressure has no symptoms, the real total Sugar-sweetened drinks used in the They can register at teen.smokefree.gov includes those who are not even aware that study included soda, flavored water and or enroll via a mobile phone by texting Text4baby they have the problem.

“QUIT” to “IQUIT” (47848).

Pregnant women and mothers of new- non-alcoholic beer.

High blood pressure can lead to heart borns carry more than babies; motherhood attack and stroke but can be controlled brings big responsibilities – and plenty of es with medication and can even be prevented questions. by diet and physical activity. Research has To answer questions that pregnant shown that those who exercise vigorously women and new moms are likely to have, for 30 minutes or more at least three times the U.S. Department of Health and Human a week are one-third less likely to have Services and other partners have develhigh blood pressure. oped Text4baby, a program that sends free text messages to cell phones. The messages Reducing breast cancer risk early provide health tips for pregnancy and for A study conducted at Washington Uni- caring for a baby up to 1 year old, and they versity in St. Louis suggests that for some are timed to match where the recipient is in teenagers, there now is another reason to pregnancy or her baby’s age. avoid alcoholic beverages – breast cancer To sign up for the service, text “baby” risk. to 511411.

Teenage girls in families with a history of breast cancer, or of breast lesions that Sweet danger sometimes lead to breast cancer, have a Women who consume too many sugary St. Charles County Family YMCA 636.928.1928 www.ymcastlouis.org/stcharles ST. CHARLES DISTRICT YMCA’S

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CREVE COEUR - SATURDAY FEBRUARY 25 & SATURDAY MARCH 31 WASHINGTON - SATURDAY MARCH 10 & SATURDAY APRIL 14

FEBRUARY 8, 2012 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

Your guide to new homes prime. I 39

40 I prime. Your guide to new homes

FEBRUARY 8, 2012 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

Five reasons to buy a home this year Kevin Weaks

Home prices and mortgage interest rates are at their lowest points in years and are likely to remain attractive throughout 2012.

That means good opportunities for homebuyers. Here are five reasons why you might want to buy a new home or get a new mortgage this year: 1. Homes are more affordable - According to the National Association of Realtors, homes are at their most affordable level since 1971, but many home buyers are unable to take advantage of low prices and favorable borrowing costs due to stricter mortgage standards.

2. Lots of choices - In many places it is taking months to sell a home, creating loads of inventory — from new homes to existing homes to foreclosures.

3. Mortgage rates are historically low It’s not just the price of the home that will affect affordability; mortgage terms will also affect your monthly payments.

4. Appreciation – This is the big one!

Even though real estate is not the investment it once was, buying a home now can almost ensure your home’s appreciation in the future. Because mortgage rates are near historic lows and home prices are down, this is the perfect recipe for home appreciation.

5. Deals, deals, deals – Homebuilders and realty firms are doing handstands to get your attention. That includes great deals that may never happen again.

and one year for addressing any issues that don’t seem right. Maintenance.

Payne Family Homes is participating in the union stimulus program. “The high quality of union workmanship has been a big part of our growth,” noted Payne President Ken Kruse. “We are excited to continue that partnership and provide our homebuyers this historic buying opportunity.” Payne has just announced that it is offering 44 attached villas priced from the $130’s in Walden Pond, an established community located off Elaine Drive north of I-70 in O’Fallon, Mo. Ever think you’d like to live in a resort?

Thomas & Suit Homes’ master-planned Wyndgate Forest is the next best thing. The neighborhood is in its wintertime glory right now with the trees providing the perfect backdrop for the homes. There are 55 acres of spectacular wooded common ground, four parks perfect for outdoor activities, and scenic trails for a jog or walk, and even sports court and covered pavilion with picnic tables. Lots range up to 3/4 acre. Wyndgate Forest, from the $290’s, and the Enclave at Sommers Pointe, from the $240’s, have walkouts, level lots and cul de sacs available. visit www.tshomes. net.

At Pulte Homes’ Reserve at Chesterfield Crossings, move-up home buyers seeking McKelvey Homes asks, what’s better to buy a new home in a community with than $20,000 in free options or huge sav- picturesque open spaces, extensive trails, ings on an inventory home? Answer: Up the prestigious Rockwood School District to $10,000 in cash at closing! McKelvey and quick access to major shopping and has partnered with several of the area’s entertainment districts, will find everybest homebuilders and nine trade unions thing they want and more. This community to create a stimulus program to encourage offers single-family homes ranging in size new-home ownership. It is the first program from 2,500 to over 4,000 square feet and of its kind in the United States. Depending priced from the low $500’s. Designs from on the sale price of the home, buyers can the Pulte’s national product portfolio at get from $2,000 to over $10,000 contrib- The Reserve include four new Life-Tested uted by the unions to use towards their new home designs.visit www.pulte.com/stlouis home. www.mckelveyhomes.com.

If you’ve always wanted to live in wonWhy would you buy an old home when derful New Town but didn’t think you you can buy a new one? Consort Homes could afford it, listen to this: Now for just has a whole list of reasons for potential $2,500 down and around $650 a month homebuyers to consider. Among them is (principle and interest) you can move into energy efficiency – New homes built by a brand new single-family home with four Consort are typically more than 40% more bedrooms. “This is no condo. It’s a real efficient on energy bills. And then there’s house with a garage,” said Greg Whittaker the warranty – Consort Homes offers a war- of Homes by Whittaker. For more informaranty for up to 10 years on structural issues tion visit www.homesbywhittaker.com.

Your guide to new homes prime. I 41

FEBRUARY 8, 2012 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

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PEOPLE Joe Anatra, has been named the performance improvement consultant for Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital and Progress West HealthCare Center.

Anatra Previously at BarnesJewish Hospital, Anatra worked as a resource assistant for the orthopedic division within Surgical Services.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Washington University in St. Louis. Anatra is a lean facilitator and currently is pursuing his master’s degree

in Business Management from Washington University.

PLACES Tinder Box, which sells fine cigars, tobacco, pipes, smoke accessories and gifts, has relocated to 5286 Hwy. N in Cottleville.

AWARDS & HONORS The National Cancer Institute has recognized Washington University in St. Louis cancer specialist Dr. Timothy J. Pluard, assistant professor of medicine, for being a

A-1 CONCRETE

top enroller of patients in clinical trials designed to improve cancer care.

Recruiting 21 patients for studies conducted by the NCI’s Cancer and Leukemia Group B Pluard research group, Pluard and his team received a Certificate of Outstanding Achievement from the NCI’s Cancer Trials Support Unit.

Pluard serves as medical director of the Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center at BarnesJewish St. Peters Hospital.

••• St. Charles County Pediatrics has received the Above and Beyond Award for employers who go “above and beyond” in their support of coworkers who are on deployment. One of their coworkers, Medical Assistant Melissa Wittneben, a sergeant in the Army Reserve, nominated them for

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the award. Bob Schure, with the awards committee for the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, part of the Department of Defense, presented the award.

For the past year, Wittneben has been deployed to Qatar, serving with the 332nd Medical Logistics Company. She has been a member of the Army Reserve for the past five years, but this was her first deployment overseas. While she was deployed, she and other members of her unit received multiple care packages, emails, letters and cards from her friends and supporters in the medical practice back home. She said the support meant the world to her while she was overseas.

••• Cathy Hartman Photography, of St. Peters, has been selected as a 2012 winner in The Knot Best of Weddings, a special section in The Knot St. Louis magazine and on theknot.com, a wedding resource for brides.

The Missouri Winefest Saturday, February 11th & Sunday, February 12th Noon to 5:00 p.m. at Westport Plaza (Indoor Pavilion)

Save 50 to 70% Over Replacement • Driveways • Patios • Steps • Any Slab!

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Staff members at St. Charles County Pediatrics surround their co-worker Melissa Wittneben (center, front), who nominated them for the Above and Beyond Award. Also pictured is Schure.

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Artesian Springs Winery Cedar Lake Cellars

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Proceeds Benefit:

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For more information visit www.westportstl.com To Inquire About Reserving a VIP Table contact the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society at 314.878.0780.

AND MORE…

FEBRUARY 8, 2012 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

I 43

Come CELEBRATE Our Anniversary!!!

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VISIT US ONLINE AT WAXCENTER.COM

1/30/12 3:51 PM

44 I EVENTS I

FEBRUARY 8, 2012 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

MARDI GRAS FAMILY STYLE AT YMCA TROUT LODGE 1-888-FUN-YMCA www.troutlodge.org

February 17-19, 2012 MARDI GRAS WEEKEND Enjoy Fat Tuesday the family-friendly way at YMCA Trout Lodge. King Cake, Creole traditions and Mardi Gras fun that’s appropriate for all members of your family! The celebration culminates with our very own YMCA Trout Lodge Mardi Gras Parade!

Find us online!

SPRING BREAK and SUMMER activities are also available on our online Events Calendar!

Y membership not required to enjoy Trout Lodge.

Com mu n it y Event s BLOOD DRIVE A community-wide blood drive will be held from 3:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Wed., Feb. 22, at Morning Star Church, 1600 Feise Road in Dardenne Prairie. Donors will be treated to refreshments and light snacks. A reservation is appreciated, and can be made by calling 561-5680.

MEETINGS The St. Charles County Pachyderm Club’s regular meeting will be held from noon to 1 p.m. on Fridays at the Golden Corral, 1850 Zumbehl Road in St. Charles.

For more information, call Bernie McCann at 544-5955.

••• The Tri-County Women’s Connection Luncheon and Program will be held from 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wed., Feb. 15, at the Christy Banquet Center, 9000 Veterans Memorial Parkway in O’Fallon. For reservations and cancellations, call Joan at 561-0956.

RECYCLE EVENT An Electronics Waste Recycling Event will be held from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sun., Feb 12, in the parking lot at Immaculate Conception Church, 7701 Hwy. N in Dardenne Prairie. Bring any electronic waste item and get $1 off of our bulk sausage sale from our Sausage Dinner. For more information, call 561-6611.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Crescendo Concert Series presents BRRRASS - Free Children’s Program, at 11 a.m., Sat., Feb. 11, at First United Methodist Church Atrium, 801 First Capitol Drive in St. Charles. Children of all ages are invited to join members of the Clarion Brass Ensemble for a program of fun music with brass instruments. Children are encouraged to bring a canned good or one dry packaged food item for the hungry. For more information, call Beth Morris at 7248270.

••• A Sausage and Beef Dinner will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sun., Feb. 12, at Immaculate Conception Church, 7701 Hwy. N in Dardenne Prairie. The buffetstyle meal is $10 for adults and $5 for kids, ages 5 to 12 years. Carry out is available and bulk or link sausage can be purchased for $3 a pound. For more information, call 561-6611.

••• A father/daughter dance will be held at 6 p.m. on Sat., Feb. 18 at the Lake Saint Louis Community Association, 100 Cognac Court. Lake Saint Louis residents can enjoy dinner, dessert and dancing with a live DJ. The event, sponsored by the Lake Saint Louis Mothers Club, is $60 per couple. For more information, call 625-6251.

••• St. Louis-based artists are putting on a benefit concert from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Sat., Feb. 18 at St. Charles Presbyterian Church, 131 S. Gamble Street. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $15 at the door.

Cash is preferred, but checks are accepted.

Proceeds from the event will go to the St. Charles Homeless Alliance, an organization of ministers, civic leaders and concerned citizens that joined together in 2010 to address the needs of the growing homeless population in St. Charles.

••• An opening reception for ‘Reflections’ will be held from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thurs., Feb. 23, in the Boyle Family Gallery in Lindenwood’s J. Scheidegger Center for the Arts at 2300 West Clay Street.

‘Reflections’ is the latest exhibition by Zeuxis, a grassroots organization of painters formed in 1995 to explore the contemporary possibilities of the still life. The exhibit will be open through March 18. For more information, call 212-924-6153 or e-mail zeuxispf@aol.com.

••• A Book Club will be held from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Tues., March 6, at the St. Charles County Heritage Museum located at 1630 Heritage Landing. The club engages the group of readers to a diverse library of

fiction and non-fiction works from many different authors. All books are selected by the group the previous month, alternating months between fictional and non-fictional works. For more information, call Ryan Graham at 949-7535.

HEALTH SEMINARS “Her Heart: Every Beat Counts!” will be held from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Fri., Feb. 10, at the Heart of St. Charles Banquet Center located at 1410 South Fifth Street.

Join the SSM Heart Institute to learn about the unique heart risks women face.

Enjoy complimentary breakfast and lunch, take part in healthy heart screenings, talk with heart experts and receive a free gift.

Healthy heart screenings are available for $10 by appointment only. The screening includes total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and blood glucose. Fasting is not required.

To register, call 1-866-SSM-DOCS. ••• “Healthy Connections…connecting how proper physical and spinal development affect a child’s total health” will be held from 10:15 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Tues., Feb. 28, at the Chiropractic Wellness Connection located at 111 O’Fallon Commons Drive. Learn how to support the important milestones in your child’s development and if your child’s spine is growing properly.

The event is free and open to the public. To RSVP, call 978-0970.

PAGEANT AUDITION The 2012 Ms. Missouri Senior America Pageant will be held on Sun., July 8, at the Florissant Civic Center Theatre. Currently, the state directors are looking for candidates to audition to become contestants in the pageant this year. Ladies must be at least 60 years old and have a talent that can be presented in 2 1/2 minutes on stage. There are also three other areas of competition - personal interview with the judges before the pageant begins, model an evening gown, and recite your 35 second philosophy of life. Auditions will be held

in late February. For more information, call Christine DeHart, co-state director, 391-5678.

HUGS Local FOX television personality Tim Ezell will be at Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital, from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 a.m., Feb. 14, to give hugs to people. Ezell will be in the hospital lobby attempting to give 214 hugs within a 15-minute time range, to help the hospital raise awareness for Heart Health Month.

TRIVIA A Trivia Night to benefit the PTO at Warren Elementary will be held from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Fri., Feb. 10, at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Cottleville.

The cost is $160 for a table of eight or $25 per person. Prizes will be awarded for best decorated table and first place.

The event will also include raffle baskets, attendance prizes, 50/50, mulligans and games between rounds. The price includes a limited choice of adult beverages and soda. Additional adult beverages will be available for purchase, but outside adult beverages are prohibited. Participants may bring in food. Registration forms are available in the school office. For questions, contact Lyndi Osborn at HYPERLINK “mailto:lyndilu@gmail.com” lyndilu@ gmail.com.

••• The Kiwanis Club of West St. Charles County will hold its “All About Kids” Trivia Night Fundraiser on Sat., Feb. 11, at the National Equestrian Center, 6880 Lake Saint Louis Boulevard in Lake Saint Louis. The tournament will benefit the Friends of the Wentzville Parks, an organization whose mission is to bring world class parks to the city of Wentzville. A table of eight costs $160 and includes beer, wine, soda and snacks. To register, visit HYPERLINK “http://www.wscckiwanis. org” \t “_blank” www.wscckiwanis.org or call Kristie Freed at 288-3236.

FEBRUARY 8, 2012 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

I 45

Good times not optional at Ballyhoo Restaurant & Bar

By SUZANNE CORBETT “Ballyhoo” is an unusual word that has proven perfect by definition for Ballyhoo Restaurant & Bar, the latest operation of Steve Surplus and Mike McDonnell.

“The definition of ‘Ballyhoo’ is a clamorous and vigorous attempt to win customers,” Surplus said. “It also means a noisy, confused or nonsensical situation, which for us means having a good time. And that’s what you’re going to find here – a good time. Check us out. We’re not your usual bar.”

Ballyhoo features a variety of entertainment diversions, such as DJs and live music and special events that have been known to include nonsensical elements, like a confetti cannon.

Sports fans can watch the big game while movie buffs can view clips from Ballyhoo’s 1,000-clip film library.

Just call up the clip you like and catch it on one of the eight flat-screen TVs strategically placed throughout the spacious bar and main stage/dining area.

While weekly entertainments vary, Ballyhoo’s star, everyday attraction is its menu.

Ballyhoo Restaurant and Bar 1048 Wolfrum Road • Weldon Spring 636-244-6900 Kitchen: 4-10 p.m., Monday-Thursday; 4-11 p.m.

Friday-Saturday Bar: 4 p.m. to 1:30 a.m., Monday-Saturday www.letseat.at/BallyhooSTL

“Our food is phenomenal,” said Surplus, who credits the creative menu to the talents of Chef Robert Bryant.

Bryant has combined bar food favorites with gourmet touches. The result: inspired dishes like the Guinness-laced, three cheese Beer Cheese Soup and salads dressed with housemade apple cider vinaigrette. My Big Fat Greek Salad expands on the classic, tossing romaine with a generous mix of green peppers, roasted grape tomatoes, kalamata olives and feta in creamy Greek-style vinaigrette. Even the house salad gets gourmet touches of bleu cheese crumbles and almonds. Each salad has the add-on option of grilled chicken or sirloin.

“All of the beef we serve, from hamburgers to our steaks, is certified Angus top choice prime.

Nothing is better,” Bryant said. “That’s what makes our steak sandwich a cut above others. Ballyhoo Restaurant & Bar co-owners, Mike McDonnell (left) and Steve We grill to order and serve it on a New York Surplus (right) with their chef, Robert Bryant.

Kaiser roll dusted with cornmeal.”

Ballyhoo’s half-pound burgers are built to order. A top own segment on the Travel Channel’s “Man vs. Food,” is burger pick is the bacon cheeseburger topped with bleu a burger tower made with four eight-ounce patties, a half cheese or provolone, but those with petite appetites will pound of bacon, provolone, cheddar cheese and garnished appreciate the two-ounce slider, which allows room for with onion rings. According to management, anyone who another house delicacy: hand-cut and breaded onion can finish it is rewarded with 50 percent off his or her rings. Hefty appetites can tackle The Big Kahuna – two check. half-pound patties topped with provolone, cheddar cheese, Ballyhoo’s winning menu and plentiful bar selections double bacon and crowned with an onion ring. are designed to feed the hungry and ignite good times.

While The Big Kahuna may appear to be Ballyhoo’s ulti“Ballyhoo is all about having fun,” McDonnell said. “We mate food challenge, it is not. The Challenge, worthy of its insist that everyone has to have fun here.”

The Best InSinceItalian Cuisine 1971

ristorante

old World italian Cuisine

1/2 OFF LUNCH

Carry Out Special

1/2 OFF

FREE Large Dinner Salad with purchase of a large 2 topping or more pizza

Buy One Lunch Pasta and 2 Beverages, Get One Lunch Dine in only. Valid Mon-Fri 11am-4pm. Excludes Valentine’s Day. Valid thru 2-14-12. *Free pasta of equal or lesser value with coupon. Limit 1 coupon per table.

Not valid with other offers or discounts.

Carry Out Only. Valid Sunday thru Thursdays only. Excludes Valentine’s Day. Limit 1 coupon per person. Limit 1 FREE salad per order.

Not valid with other offers or discounts. With coupon. Expires 2-14-12

Monday all you Can eat pasta 4pm-9pm. Select Group of Pastas.

636-949-9005 2061 Zumbehl Rd. Bogey Hills Plaza St. Charles www.fratellisristorante.com

s ’ o i r E

Our Gift To You!

4

$

00

Off any purchase!

Valid at all locations

Not valid with any other offer. Not valid Valentine’s Day. Taxes and gratuities extra. Not redeemable for cash.

Offer expires 2-29-12.

fresh Chilean Sea bass, battered fried lobster tails, Ribeye Steak & Chicken Speidini Specials friday, february 10th through tuesday, february 14th

Serving Certified Angus Beef Everyday

Ristorante

951 Jungermann Rd • St. Peters

Call today for reservations

928-0112

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(Reservations Recommended) Log onto www.AmisPizza.com for more information.

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A Special Valentine’s Dinner Pizza, Pasta, Steaks, Seafood

Special valentine’s Day entrees

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(636) 329-8787 1266 Bryan Rd. • O’Fallon

(636) 980-3333

9824 Manchester Rd. • Rock Hill

(314) 963-1822

Happy Hour Everyday 3-6pm Get 2nd Half Off Appetizer & Drink Specials of equal or lesser value with purchase of 2 beverages Full Bar Buy 1 Entree

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1 coupon per table. Dine in only.

Not valid with other offers or discounts, happy hour or gift card.

Expires 2/21/12

Closed Tues. • Sun. - Thurs. 11am - 9:00pm Fri. & Sat. 11am - 10:00pm Dine-In • Carry Out • Catering

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2 OFF with $10 purchase

$

636.272.4429

1 Coupon per table. Dine in only.

Not valid with other offers, discounts, happy hour or gift card. Expires 2/21/12

Valentine’s Weekend Special One FREE Dessert for couples Fri. 2/10/12 - Sun 2/12/12

46 I

FEBRUARY 8, 2012 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

DINING

GRAZIE

Thank you, Readers, for voting us

Best Italian Restaurant Best Server • Best Bartender

Jenna Rodgers/Server, Jim Curry/Chef, Terra Charles/Server, Barb and Don Baker/Owners

636.591.0010

8653 Hwy N Lake St. Louis 636.561.6966 www.DonatellisBistro.com

Taking your wife or girlfriend to your "own restaurant" for Valentine's Day is not an option!

Boy, you guys are luckier than me!!!!

Home of the Dollar Drink Menu The moTher of all meal deals.

Your choice of appetizer, entrée and dessert. Start with either a Mixed Greens Salad or Tortilla Soup.

Then, for your main course, choose from Grilled Chicken Fajita Tacos, Lunch-Sized Chicken Fajitas or any Two-Item Combo. Top it all off with either a mini flan or mini deep-fried ice-cream for dessert.

plus

Award Winning Food Live Entertainment omestic Buckets D 0 1 $

strawberry margaritas $3 Voted Best Chips & salsa in town 17 Years in a row!

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in the Cantina only

Drink Specials starting at $3 Appetizers starting at $5

3072 Winghaven Blvd.

Lakeside Shoppes Plaza

636-561-5202

Moto Sushi Bar & Grill

Enjoy a romantic evening of fine dining and song with us.

Seating times and Special Menu Choices at 5pm / 5:30pm / 7pm / 7:30pm / 9pm / 9:30pm

FREE bottlE oF winE

Lunch Specials

$

10 OFF

695

St. Peters

(Located at Jungermann & McClay)

www.mymotosushi.com

|

5 OFF

(With Any Purchase of $25 or More) Dine-in only. With coupon. 1 coupon per table. Not valid with other offers.

Exp. 3/1/12

1320 Triad Center Dr.

Reservations strongly recommended

$

with purchase of $25 or more Mon.-Thurs.

With purchase of $30 or more Fri. & Sat. Excluding Holidays

starting @ $

Special menu available Friday & Saturday February 10th & 11th 8653 Hwy N Lake St. Louis 636.561.6966 www.DonatellisBistro.com

Moto Mileage Point Card Available starting February (call for details)

636.922.4444

(With Any Purchase of $50 or More) Dine-in only. With coupon. 1 coupon per table. Not valid with other offers.

Exp. 3/1/12

FEBRUARY 8, 2012 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

I 47

M I D R I V E R S H O M E PA G E S

THE FAN MAN

When you want it done right the first time...

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LINE AD: 8 lines of text with 3035 words in this size type. West Newsmagazine is direct-mailed to 68,000+ homes in St. Louis County and Mid Rivers Newsmagazine is direct-mailed to 62,000+ homes in St. Charles County. Call 636-591-0010.

• RN • LPN • CNA • NA • Companion Care • Full time • Part time • Live-In • No Contract Required

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emAil: clAssifieds@newsmAgAzinenetwOrk.cOm Electric

Help Wanted

Painting Services

Tax Services

The FAN Guy - Trained & experienced tradesman available for light electrical services: ceiling fans, installation & repairs, new outlets/switches, attic fans/ lighting. Fair, dependable & honest. Call Paul 636-734-8402.

RESIDENTIAL SALES - local solar energy firm hiring residential sales professional. Must have successful track record in sales and be able to generate own leads. Requires roof-top work.

Send resume and cover letter to jobs.sales.residential@gnostix. net. Commission.

Karen's Painting Looking for a job done right the first time? On time? Neat & organized? Someone who respects your home like her own? Interior & exterior painting. Free estimates. Discounts on empty properties. Call KAREN 636-352-0129.

Sederburg & Associates Tax Services 636-928-1040 www.

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Plumbing

Storm Damage • Trimming • Pruning

Call Ellen

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Providing In Home Care for Seniors and the Disabled

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Home Improvement

february 16 for feb. 22 issue Classifieds

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A 2 Z Cleaning - Residential & Commercial. Insured & Bonded.

Professional and Thorough Customized Cleaning. FALL Special: 20% off of 2nd & 4th cleaning!

Free estimates.

Call Vicki (314) 283-1185 or a2zcleaning2@yahoo.com.

V

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Classifieds

636.591.0010 A

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St. Charles Junk is your local bulk and container service company catering to the St. Charles and surrounding counties. We haul it all... basement and garage cleanouts, appliances, yard waste, construction debris, and NOW OFFERING CONTAINERS! For the best service and pricing call St. Charles Junk at 636-697-7825 www.stcjunk.com.

n l i n e

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J. Snyder Tree Service Specializing in:

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(636) 384-0663 Insured

Next DeaDliNe:

february 16 for feb. 22 issue

Prayers Novena to the Holy Spirit

Holy Spirit, you who make me see everything and show me the way to reach my ideals. Give me the divine gift to forgive and forget them all who have done wrong to me. I, in short dialogue, want to thank you in everything and confirm once more that I never want to be separated from you no matter how great the material desires may be. I want to be with you and my beloved one in our perpetual glory. Thanks for favors.

Pray this prayer for three consecutive days without asking for wish. After third day, wish will be granted no matter how difficult.

Promise to publish this dialogue as soon as your favor has been granted. FS

"Let us go out on a limb...

For You"

Waterproofing Top Notch Waterproofing & Foundation Repair LLC. Cracks, sub-pump systems, structural & concrete repairs. Exterior drainage correction. Serving Missouri for 15 yrs. Free estimate 636-2816982. Finally, a contractor who is honest and leaves the job site clean. Lifetime Warranties.

Wedding Services

Anytime...

Anywhere...

ST. JUDE NOVENA

Hauling Cleaning Services

ANYTHING IN PLUMBING - Good Prices! Basement bathrooms, small repairs & code violations repaired. Fast Service. Call or text anytime: 314-409-5051.

only $45 per inch

Showroom to

Yes, we are bonded and insured Call Right At Home www.stcharles.rightathome.net

COMMERCIAL SALES – local solar energy firm hiring commercial sales professional. Must have successful track record selling projects over $50,000 and be able to generate own leads.

Send resume and cover letter to jobs.sales.commercial@gnostix. net. Commission.

Tree Services

n

Landscaping

Early Bird Specials!

Mower Tune-ups Free Plug & Oil

Lawn Mowing

One FREE Cut/Season

636-978-0292

lawnandmowerdocllc.com

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, Help of the Hopeless, pray for us. Say prayer nine times a day; by the 8th day prayer will be answered. Say it for nine days. Then publish. Your prayers will be answered. It has never been known to fail. Thank you, St. Jude. dc

e w s m A g A z i n e

n

Marriage Ceremonies Renewal of Vows Baptisms

~ Full Service Ministry ~

Non-Denominational

(314) 703-7456

e t w O r k

.

c O m