Mid Rivers Newsmagazine December 16, 2009

Santa, baby

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Ma n n in o ’ s M a rke t

THOMAS SOWELL

Jobs or snow jobs?

President Barack Obama keeps talking about the jobs his administration is “creating” but there are more people unemployed now than before he took office. How can there be more unemployment after so many jobs have been “created”?

Let’s go back to square one. What does it take to create a job? It takes wealth to pay someone who is hired, not to mention additional wealth to buy the material that person will use.

But government creates no wealth.

Ignoring that plain and simple fact enables politicians to claim to be able to do all sorts of miraculous things that they cannot do in fact. Without creating wealth, how can they create jobs? By taking wealth from others, whether by taxation, selling bonds or imposing mandates.

However it is done, transferring wealth is not creating wealth. When government uses transferred wealth to hire people, it is essentially transferring jobs from the private sector, not adding to the net number of jobs in the economy.

If that was all that was involved, it would be a simple verbal fraud, with no gain of jobs and no net loss. In reality, many other things that politicians do reduce the number of jobs.

Politicians who mandate various benefits that employers must provide for workers gain politically by seeming to give people something for nothing. But making workers more expensive means that fewer are likely to be hired.

During an economic recovery, employers can respond to an increased demand for their companies’ products by hiring more workers - creating more jobs - or they can work their existing employees overtime.

Because workers have to be paid timeand-a-half for overtime, it might seem as if it always would be cheaper to hire more workers. But that was before politicians began mandating more benefits per worker.

When you get more hours of work from the existing employees, you do not need to pay for additional mandates, as you would have to when you get more hours of work by hiring new people. For many employers, that makes it cheaper to pay for overtime. The data show that overtime hours have been increasing in the economy while more people have been laid off.

There is another way of reducing the cost of government-imposed mandates. That is

I opinion I 3

DECEMBER 16, 2009 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

by hiring temporary workers, to whom the mandates do not apply.

The number of temporary workers hired has increased for the fourth consecutive month, even though there are millions of unemployed people who could be hired for regular jobs, if it were not for the mandates that politicians have imposed.

Economists have long been saying that there is no free lunch, but politicians get elected by seeming to give free lunches, in one form or another. Yet there are no magic wands in Washington to make costs disappear, whether with workers or with medical care. We just pay in a different way, often a more costly way.

Nor can these costs all be simply dumped on “the rich,” because there are just not enough of them. Often people who are far from rich pay the biggest price in lost opportunities.

A classic example is the minimum wage law. Minimum wage laws appear to give low-income workers something for nothing - and appearances are what count in politics. Realities can be left to others, so long as appearances get votes.

People with low skills or little experience usually get paid low wages. Passing a minimum wage law does not make them any more valuable. At a higher wage, it can just make them expendable. Raising the minimum wage in the midst of a recession was guaranteed to increase unemployment among the young - and it has.

None of this is peculiar to the current administration. The Roosevelt administration created huge numbers of government jobs during the 1930s - and yet unemployment remained in double digits throughout FDR’s first two terms.

Constant government experiments with new bright ideas is another common feature of Obama’s “change” and FDR’s New Deal. The uncertainty that this unpredictable experimentation generates makes employers reluctant to hire.

Destroying some jobs while creating other jobs does not get you very far, except politically. But politically is what matters to politicians, even if their policies needlessly prolong a recession or depression. © 2009 Creators.com

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4 I OPINION I

DECEMBER 16, 2009 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

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l ette r s t o t h e e d i t o r Merry Christmas To the Editor: I just wanted to tell you how very good I think your publication is. I look forward to getting it each week - especially the great commentary by Mr. Thomas Sowell. The paper is very well put together, and I read it from cover to cover, including the ads from our local establishments.

Thanks again for the great job you all do. Please continue to provide great, common-sense commentary and news on local events. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Thomas Becker O’Fallon

less investment capital available for home, business and college loans as investors “retire” from the market.

Taxing the rich trickles down to everyone.

We can expect more “farm aid” concerts, jobs summits, small business grants, tax loop holes and even a reduction in the tax increase to 45 percent; but, in the end, wealth built up over generations will be redistributed and more people will be dependent on government.

Politicians do not create prosperity; just more government. Rather than die or divest, dedicate this next year to electing conservatives who will cut taxes and regulations and let free enterprise create wealth and generate prosperity.

Michael F McCarthy

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To the Editor: Several weeks ago, the CEO of General Motors stated that GM lost $1.5 billion in the third quarter. He went on to say that was good news. The bailout was working; the losses were predicted to be higher.

What he neglected to say was there were layoffs at GM manufacturing facilities, facilities closed, manufacturing stopped for Saturn, dealerships closed across the nation, and a loss of jobs as the results of this good economic news.

Now, let’s take a look at Ford. Profits in the third quarter were $1.2 billion. That is right, a positive number. And Ford did not accept any government bailout or intervention. And Ford is building new facilities in India and Detroit, and continues to upgrade facilities and Ford products. Look at the stock market to compare GM with Ford.

Is government intervention a good thing?

Herb Jones St. Charles County

Publisher Doug Huber

General Manager Tim Weber

Managing Editor Terry Dean

Marketing Director Sharon Huber

Business Manager Erica Ritter

Graphic Designers

Angela Carmody Chris Conley Steve Glover Ellen Thomas

Advertising Manager Vicky Czapla Advertising Account Executives

K&N continues

To the Editor: I want to take this opportunity to respond to Mr. Keith Reel’s letter in your recent issue, (Mid Rivers Newsmagazine, Nov. 18, 2009, Letters to the editor).

First, and foremost, before he sits in judgment of those people, he needs to know that the K&N Patriots are not a “small group of very well-off people.” I happen to know because I stand with these patriots on Saturdays so I know the background of a good many of them.

Just one example of the very well-off that Mr. Reel spoke of happens to be a retired police officer, living on 40-percent less of his less-than-huge salary. This man is married to a wheelchair-bound spouse that he takes care of.

Mr. Reel is deluding himself about the reason that these Americans gather weekly.

Is it about the proposed health care bills that are before Congress right now? Yes, but it goes far further than that; they are protesting “cap and tax,” ever increasing Death tax government takeovers in the private sector, To the Editor: and the movement of our country toward It’s a good time to die... if you own a socialism. This is about our government farm, business or stock valued at more than over stepping its constitutional authority $1 million. The “death tax” is scheduled to and taking more and more control of our expire Jan. 1, 2010, with no tax estate tax lives. until it returns to “life” on Jan. 1, 2011 a Our constitution limits the power of the tax rate of 55 percent. However, we now federal government, giving sovereignty to have a $10 trillion debt so Democrats will each state. act quickly to re-impose the estate tax.

Evidently Mr. Reel would instead prefer As a result, family farms will have to a set of rules where the federal government be sold because the land is valued in the dictates to each one. millions; employers will have to downJane Hogan size or sell the business; and, there will be St. Peters

Sheila Bennett Hope Cohagan Vivian Fortunato Linda Hauhe Sharon Huber Mairian King

Roger Koch Joe Ritter Christine Rogers Jim Ross Fran Swigunski Michael Watson

Classified Advertising Sales Kathleen Farrow Writers Amy Armour Casey Godwin Mary Ann O’Toole Holley Sue Hornof Jeannie Seibert

355 Ozark Trails Drive, Suite 1 St. Louis, MO 63011 (636) 591-0010 ■ (636) 591-0022 Fax newsmagazinenetwork.com Please send Comments, Letters and Press Releases to: editor@midriversnewsmagazine.com Mid Rivers Newsmagazine is published 24 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 Rivers 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 2009.

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DECEMBER 16, 2009 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

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6 I Holiday Spirit I

DECEMBER 16, 2009 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

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Scenes from the season...

A breakfast meal benefiting the Foster Adoption Support Group along with donated gifts from the staff at the Saint Charles Convention Center.

The O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce collected funds for our deploying military troops, purchasing much needed supplies of lip balm and sunscreen.

A young visitor, named Dane, from St. Charles, brings Santa canned goods and shares his Christmas list with Santa at Mid Rivers Mall.

Jenny Zeik of O'Fallon brought toys to Mid Rivers Mall for the toy drive benefiting the Salvation Army.

Gussie Freese has been creating memorable holiday buntings for newborn infants at St. Luke’s Hospital for the past 12 years. Her volunteer work combines her love of crafts with her fondness of babies.

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DECEMBER 16, 2009 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

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News Br iefs St. Peters Felony against elderly A local businessman has been charged with seven counts of stealing by deceit and one count of attempted stealing from his elderly clients.

Kevin Cullinan, owner of the KC Clock and Watch Shop, was charged with the eight felony charges on Dec. 1. Cullinan is accused of repeatedly deceiving an elderly Alzheimer’s victim by charging for work on numerous clocks and pocket watches which he never fixed. The clocks were shown to independent experts who determined no repair work had been completed.

More than $41,000 was acquired from false and duplicate billing services, police said. Cullinan also allegedly received several thousand dollars for yard work and replacing the victim’s kitchen sink.

Police said Cullinan has an extensive criminal history and dozens of civil suits involving similar incidents at KC’s Clock Shop. “We have only taken one report about this scam, however after this was written about in the Post, we received approximately 25 phone calls from people who felt they have been scammed,” said Police Officer Melissa Doss. “Detective Beckman is currently looking into these claims to see if anything criminal happened

in those cases.”

Cullinan was arrested on Dec. 1 and was held at the St. Charles County Jail on a $35,000 bond.

St. Charles Pet holiday Lots of puppies and kittens hope to find a home for the holidays at the St. Charles Police Department Animal Control Division’s third annual Holiday Pet Adoption.

The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sat., Dec. 19, at the City Animal Shelter located at 2835 W. Randolph.

“We’re hoping to get some puppies. We will have some dogs, cats and some kittens,” said Teresa Gilley, lead animal control officer. “We also have a rabbit.”

A gift bag will be given with each adoption and a photo taken with the new addition to your family.

For more information, call 949-3395 or visit stcharlescitymo.gov.

Robbery suspect at large The Circle K convenience store and gas station was robbed on Dec. 5.

Police said the suspect entered the store located on Harry S. Truman Drive about

11:40 p.m. and displayed a small hand gun.

He demanded cash from the register and from a customer in the store.

The clerk and the customer handed the suspect an undetermined amount of cash and the suspect fled the business in a smaller, white four door passenger car.

“No one was injured in the incident,” said Officer Derek Piasecki. “We have not had any robberies similar to this recently.”

Police are looking for the public’s help to identify the suspect who is described as a black male, 20 to 30 years of age, wearing a grey stocking hat, maroon jacket and gloves. Anyone with information relative to this crime is asked to contact the St. Charles Police Department Investigative Services at 949-3320.

Anonymous tips can be left through St. Charles CrimeStoppers at 949-3333.

St. Charles County Vaccine available for all An increase in vaccine supply in Missouri will help provide anyone with the H1N1 vaccine, regardless of risk status.

“By working with our community health care partners, we have been able to vaccinate many people at high risk from H1N1 disease,” said Gil Copley, director of the St. Charles County Department of Community Health and the Environment. “We still encourage those at high risk to get vaccinated if they haven’t already, but now that vaccine supplies are growing, we can open

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it up to the rest of the population. Vaccination remains one of the most effective tools to fight the spread of the H1N1 flu virus.”

For most people, the best place to obtain a flu vaccination is through their regular health care provider. Many pharmacies and retail outlets also offer vaccine. In addition, a number of public vaccination clinics are planned in the coming weeks.

For a listing of clinic times and locations, log on to FightTheFluMO.com and click on “Flu Shot Clinics” or call the Vaccine InfoLine toll-free at 1-877-358-4141.

Highway improvements Interstate 70 will benefit from some improvements in St. Charles County early next year.

Earlier this month, the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission (MHTC) awarded about $11 million to contractors for various roadway improvement projects in St. Louis and St. Charles counties. The $5.1 million I-70 project will consist of resurfacing the interstate ramps and outer roads at the I-70 interchanges at Fifth Street, Zumbehl Road, Cave Springs Boulevard, and Mid River Mall Drive. The project was awarded to Fred Weber Inc. for $5,164,627.09.

This project is expected to begin in February 2010 and should be completed by September 2010.

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DECEMBER 16, 2009 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM time to pay taxes.

All personal property tax bills and real estate tax bills were mailed in November and must be paid by Dec. 31 to avoid penalties.

County Collector of Revenue Michelle McBride said property owners need to make sure that mortgage companies holding escrow accounts pay the bills on time because the property owners are still liable.

If you did not receive a tax bill and lived in St. Charles County on Jan. 1, 2009, check the county website at scco.org to see if a bill exists for you or call the Collector’s Office at 949-7470.

O’Fallon Sodomy charges A 36-year-old O’Fallon man has been accused of exposing himself and touching a 7-year-old girl.

Phillip Ray Parker was arrested in his O’Fallon home on Dec. 2 after the victim’s mother, who was also Parker’s girlfriend, brought the allegations from the child to local police. Parker was babysitting the victim at her home when he allegedly exposed himself and touched her inappropriately.

Parker has been charged with first degree statutory sodomy. A $500,000 cash-only bond was set.

Coach arrested A Fort Zumwalt West coach was arrested on Dec. 8 after allegations of inappropriate behavior with a 16-year-old female student.

Reginald Hicks, 23, is an employee and coach at Fort Zumwalt West High School.

The O’Fallon police department received a call on Dec. 7 that alleged Hicks had an inappropriate relationship with an underage female student off campus.

Officer Diana Damke said that Hicks did not have a previous criminal record to her knowledge. And since the allegations, “No one else has come forward,” Damke said.

Hicks has been charged with nine counts of statutory sodomy 2nd and two counts of statutory rape 2nd. His bond was set at $50,000.

Drunk driver sentenced A 30-year-old man was sentenced to 15 years in prison for involuntary manslaughter and leaving the scene of an accident.

Chad E. Frazer, formerly of O’Fallon, was driving 120 mph when he smashed his 1991 Mustang into the back of 51-year-old Robert Wood’s 1990 Mercury Topaz on Feb. 19. Wood was killed on impact.

After crashing into Wood, police said Frazer fled the scene. After police found him in a nearby neighborhood, his blood

alcohol level ranged from .176 to .203 percent. The legal limit in Missouri is 0.08.

A gift of history Back by popular demand, the O’Fallon Historical Society is again offering its calendar of vintage O’Fallon for Christmas gift-giving. Featured in the 2010 calendar are the volunteers and highlights of the O’Fallon Fire Protection District from past to present.

Accompanying the sepia-toned photos recalling a bygone era are interesting facts from O’Fallon’s history. Each calendar costs $5.

For ordering and delivering information call 272-8160 or see the Web site at ofallonmohistory.org.

time to jingle d time to mingle

Runner dies after race A 32-year-old Wentzville woman collapsed and later died after completing a half-marathon in Tennessee earlier this month.

Molly Trauernicht collapsed shortly after completing the 13.1 mile road race which was a fundraiser for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Trauernicht was pronounced dead at Methodist University Hospital. The cause of death has not been determined.

d d

f

d Thursday, December 17

Driven to distraction Costumed people carrying signs promoting pizza may have to keep the advertising away from the streets in Wentzville.

The city of Wentzville is considering a ban on ‘walking’ billboards near the West Pearce Boulevard and the Wentzville Parkway. So workers carrying signs or dressed up to attract attention from drivers may have to find a new way to advertise.

The Wentzville Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended prohibiting the ‘walking advertisements’ to the Board of Aldermen.

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“The donated food items will go to Sts. Joachim and Ann Care Services who operate the area’s largest food pantry,” said City Administrator Michael Padella.

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DECEMBER 16, 2009 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

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I NEWS I 11

Dardenne Prairie goes on the hunt for missing taxes Resident proposes process to identify and claim taxes due to the city

By Jeannie Seibert Like nearly every family, organization and governmental jurisdiction these days, everyone is trying to do more with less and thinking outside the box is encouraged.

With projected revenues looking flat in 2010, a proposal from a constituent has Dardenne Prairie Mayor Pam Fogarty and the Board of Aldermen all ears.

Patrick Nasi, of Development Dynamics, suggested City Hall contract with his company to search for opportunities to recover tax revenue that may have been inadvertently paid to other jurisdictions.

A prime example would be when a personal property sales tax payment is made at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) the sales tax is credited to the wrong jurisdiction.

It isn’t an unusual occurrence because each jurisdiction is assigned a code. A clerk at the DMV fills in the address of the taxpayer and the code is automatically assigned according to the individual’s address.

While a number of residents actually live within the Dardenne Prairie city limits, because the post office gives them an O’Fallon address, the computer automatically designates that sales tax payment to the city of O’Fallon when it is actually due to the city of Dardenne Prairie, Nasi said.

He said the same scenario could extend to some real property taxes.

Fogarty has begun to wonder if that couldn’t occur with telecommunications companies as well.

“There are a surprising number of people who actually live in Dardenne Prairie but because of the post office they have an O’Fallon address,” Fogarty said.

To the question of how much he thought could be recovered, Nasi said. “We just won’t know until we get into it.”

Nasi presented his proposal as a win/ win for the city. “If we don’t recover any revenue, we don’t get paid,” he said, suggesting Development Dynamics only be compensated a percentage of what is actually recovered.

That percentage rate is what will need to be negotiated.

But the idea was inspired by the city of Weldon Spring who, Nasi said conducted a tax recovery audit in 2008.

“They recovered almost $30,000,” Nasi said, which got the board’s attention after having reviewed a dreary projection of revenue and expenses for 2010.

According to Weldon Spring City Admin-

istrator Michael Padella, Nasi’s estimation istrator Jack Strick. jurisdictions have contacted Weldon of recovered tax revenue is accurate.

“Jack had one done in 2002 and that Spring City Hall to learn more about the “We started a program similar to what worked out well,” Padella said. Following tax recovery program.

Patrick Nasi is proposing – not exactly the Strick’s example, Weldon Spring began “It’s a lot of work; it does take additional same – at the end of 2007 and collected working with area DMVs, coordinating resources,” Padella said. “But, in times of the revenue in November of 2008 of about through the Missouri Department of Rev- tight budgets, you’ve got to get creative.” $30,000.” enue.

Should the Dardenne Prairie Board of While he would like to take the credit for Because it had been about five years Aldermen elect to proceed with a contract having had the innovative idea in the first since the last audit, Padella said the city with Development Dynamics, an ordinance place, Padella said it was actually a repeat “saw a pretty good windfall – it spanned will have to be passed giving the mayor the of an audit Weldon Spring City Hall con- multiple years.” authority to negotiate the details – likely to ducted at the behest of former City AdminPadella said since that success, other come up as early as January.

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12 I ‘Jobs, jobs, jobs’ continue to be a challenge for economic development DECEMBER 16, 2009 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

By Jeannie Seibert During a recent Board of Aldermen meeting, St. Peters Engineering and Development Services Manager Cathy Pratt spent a great deal of time at the podium updating elected officials and senior staff members on three commercial districts in which the city has invested extensive infrastructure upgrades.

Then she brought up a future challenge that looms to those committed to economic development.

Pratt provided an overview of the annual tax increment financing (TIF) committee report which compiles the revenue generated within the city’s three special taxing districts. The full report is posted on the city’s Web site, she said.

As to future development, Pratt discussed the possibility of creating yet another special district to give a shot in the arm to an older commercial area.

As a working title, the Cave Springs Redevelopment District (which has yet to be created) is suffering. Pratt projected numerous photos of commercial buildings and strip centers in decline or evidencing gaping holes. Commercial vacancies in the area are high and even include the former

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

City Hall building, she said She said possible fixes include community improvement districts (CIDs), transportation improvement districts (TDDs) or yet another TIF. Redevelopment districts direct tax revenue from a defined area into infrastructure upgrades for that area. For years, these methods have proven to be successful tools to fine tune and set the stage for economic development, or business creation which, in turn, creates jobs.

City Administrator Bill Charnisky said City Hall has long been dedicated to promoting job creation – which was the idea The dome on the new St. Peters Justice Center is put in place. Currently, most construction jobs are found with the public sector. that spawned the Lakeside 370 developthousands of man-hours in construction Supreme Court ruled on an appeal from ment. “(Former Mayor) Tom Brown deserves jobs. Between an unanticipated recession Great Rivers Habitat Alliance (GRHA). the credit” for seeing the possibilities and incessant legal challenges, the robust The first hearing for GRHA’s long-sought of Lakeside 370,” Charnisky said. Four economic development engine former jury trial is set to be held in Cole County mayors ago, the project was launched with Mayor Tom Brown had envisioned has Circuit Court “probably sometime in April voter approval. Since then it has evolved stalled. The long hoped-for permanent jobs 2010,” he said.

This will require another round of legal from its original vision splitting into two Premier370 Business Park was to provide separate projects. The business park side are on hold while the economy recovers and consulting fees coupled with the costs of complying with the discovery process is now called Premier370, developed by and the city defends itself in court.

The lawsuits have required a great deal which, in a trial of this scope, can total tens Gundaker Commercial and Duke Realty.

The other side is scheduled to open next of money. “(Legal fees are) well over of thousands of dollars. a million dollars now,” Charnisky said. summer as Lakeside 370 City Park.

The two projects were to provide for And the meter is still running as the state See JOBS, JOBS, page 13

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DECEMBER 16, 2009 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

I NEWS I 13 I 13

JOBS, JOBS, from page 12

could spend the money on is the construcSt. Peters City Hall has a reputation for bond issues.

“We’ve got three construction projects tion at Lakeside 370 Park,” Pagano said. being a good employer to its staff which, in turn, provides good service to its residents right now being paid for by money from “We could go ahead with the next stage of While the city has prevailed in every even when the budget is tight. the three bond issues our voters passed in the park construction including the beach legal challenge from GRHA and its affili“We have been able to maintain the size 2006,” Pagano said of the three city facili- areas, amphitheatre, large picnic pavilions, ates (St. Charles County and Great Rivers of our workforce and continue the high ties under construction. “Because of our play ground equipment and phase two of Law Center) GRHA is also appealing a level of services our residents have come sound fiscal management we have one of the RV park. This would create some buildFederal Emergency Management Admin- to expect from St. Peters,” Pagano said. the top bond ratings,” Pagano said. “This ing construction trades jobs now. istration (FEMA) decision that aided the “When I think of what we could be doing The confidence St. Peters residents means we can borrow money at a lower Lakeside/Premier 370 developments. have in their city’s leadership is conveyed rate than other municipalities. This is very to get this park ready for everyone to use Even though the city isn’t the defendant through the ballot. Twice residents have positive for us.” and enjoy, it’s very frustrating that we’re in this proceeding, it puts a cloud over the approved City Hall to pursue major projRevenue lost to the so-far successful spending money keeping lawyers working business park. Companies considering ects – the Lakeside 370 development gar- legal defense over the Lakeside 370 TIF is when we could be putting people to work locating there are hesitant to invest in a nered over 60 percent voter approval and a real point of aggravation for Pagano. building something for everyone’s benefit,” property subject to so much legal wran- more recently a majority said ‘yes’ to three “One of the most important things we Pagano said. gling. That means construction and permanent jobs lost – or put on hold as the legal process plays out.

“What could we have done with all the money we’ve spent defending ourselves? A lot,” Charnisky said. As it is, “we’ve been quietly doing our thing and making things happen.”

The city continues to plow as much as it can back into other projects, using funds generated from the sale of the business park side of the property, Charnisky said.

Currently hundreds of construction workers are employed as the Justice Center takes shape near Mid Rivers Mall and construction has begun on the new solid-waste facility. Also underway are water and sewer upgrades, the various street projects and future workers will be required to remodel portions of the present City Hall after the Justice Center opens and absorbs some of its functions next year.

Forget those high priced nationwide tax chains. We can typically save $40 to $125 One of the biggest construction projects on your 1040 fees when compared to nationwide chains and franchises in the county right now is the Page Avenue extension, to which the city diverted some $2 million in conjunction with the county and MoDOT. “This will give the area around (Hwy.) 94 a boost,” said Charnisky, after the Page Avenue interchange at Hwy. 94 is complete.

Another project on which the city is partnering with other jurisdictions is the Salt River Road extension.

“We didn’t have this one funded,” Charnisky said. When the county approached St. Peters with the idea of an alternative east/ west connector between I-370 and Hwy. 79, the city “borrowed the money because we believe in it – it keeps the engine growing.”

Charnisky has been key to continuity as he now serves under his fourth St. Peters mayor.

Mayor Len Pagano has taken up the cause of job creation and even though times are tough, City Hall hasn’t laid off any personnel.

“We do our best to manage the city’s business conservatively,” Pagano said.

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14 I NEWS I

DECEMBER 16, 2009 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

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Motorists return in droves to I-64 on first day

By Casey Godwin Motorists wasted no time coming back to I-64 when it re-opened Dec. 7. Officials for the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) reported that traffic volumes on I-64 between I-270 and Kingshighway Blvd. were at pre-closure level during the very first morning rush hour the interstate was re-opened.

“Most of the traffic that had been on the major interstates and arterial detour routes has come back to I-64 all in one day,” said Ed Hassinger, MoDOT St. Louis district engineer. “We’re seeing volumes that are very similar to what happened before we closed the highway in 2007.”

Transportation workers officially opened I-64 in both directions at 1:30 a.m., Dec. 7.

Motorists making the morning commute were greeted by electronic signs that welcomed them back and thanked St. Louis.

While there were no major accidents or backups on I-64 the first morning, many drivers were noticeably hesitant on the newly-opened eastern portion of the project, particularly near the I-170 interchange.

“Drivers really need to drive this road like they are a visitor from out of town,” Hassinger said. “Watch the signs and drive it like you’re seeing it for the first time.”

Hanley Road and Brentwood Boulevard now are a combined exit off I-64. Traveling eastbound on I-64, northbound I-170 is in the far right lane and the Brentwood/Hanley exit is in the lane just left of that. Additionally, both northbound I-170 ramps on either side of I-64 now give drivers much more time to get over.

As traffic returns to I-64 after a two year closure, major detour routes are immedi-

ately seeing a big reduction. For example, I-44 between I-270 and I-55 has seen the largest decrease thus far, with an estimated 20 to 30 percent decrease. Officials said that I-70 from I-270 through St. Louis City saw a 10 to 20 percent decrease in traffic and I-270 between I-64 and I-44 dropped 22 percent in traffic volume.

“All of those major interstates saw a dramatic drop in volumes back to what it was before we closed (I-64),” Hassinger said. “I think the same thing can be said for local roads as well. The city and county arterial routes saw big drops in volumes and are all operating very well.”

Hassinger said Forest Park Parkway, which has served as a detour during the eastern half of the project, was “like a ghost town.”

MoDOT officials suggest that motorists visit thenewi64.org to look at the new design before venturing out onto I-64. Hassinger said that drivers will be surprised at how different I-64 is between I-170 and Kingshighway Boulevard.

Motorists traveling in the Brentwood area also should use caution navigating the new Hanley Road jug handle, as it has changed.

Hassinger said one lasting benefit of the project will be the changes to signal timing on major arterial roadways such as Forest Park Parkway and Clayton Road. Signals that were changed to accommodate heavier traffic flow on those roads will continue to favor the main roadways as it did throughout the closure. Re-striping that occurred on some of these roads for the project may be altered, but those decisions will be left up to the individual municipalities.

DECEMBER 16, 2009 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

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Area Walgreens stores to sell liquor again

Pearl Harbor Day: Teaching through remembering

By Amy Armour Local Walgreens are getting back into the liquor business.

For the first time in years, Walgreens will be offering a beer and wine selection at many Walgreens locations by spring.

“They are going to sell liquor again, like the old days,” said Weldon Spring Mayor Dick Licklider.

The Weldon Spring Board of Aldermen approved a liquor license for the Walgreens located at 1033 Wolfrum Road on Dec. 8.

The nationwide chain slowly phased out the sale of liquor in Missouri in 2004.

“We got almost completely out of the liquor business, except in the sunbelt, because it was taking up too much space,” said Bob Wood, district manager of Walgreens.

But the customers have spoken.

“The company is constantly doing surveys to its customers…and apparently customers really wanted the convenience of picking up (liquor) at the store,” Wood said. “So, Walgreens wants to meet that demand.”

Wood said the liquor department will be downsized compared to when the store offered a liquor section years ago.

The new liquor section will be much smaller, located in a 12to 15-foot space in the grocery section of the store. The aisle will stock wine, and two existing coolers will now be used to keep packaged beer cold.

Wood said that April or May 2010 is the target to rollout the new liquor section in stores nationwide.

“We want to roll it out at all the stores at the same time, and it will take awhile to get all the permits,” Wood said.

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DECEMBER 16, 2009 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

As a result of two summons issued after an Oct. 31 altercation between two individuals from opposing sides of a public demonstration at the intersection of highways K and N in O’Fallon, the first of two arraignments was held Dec. 7.

Jay Harris, 66, of St. Peters, pled not guilty to a charge of assault in the third degree at his initial arraignment in O’Fallon Municipal Court. Harris was not represented by legal counsel.

A plea of not guilty requires a trial date be set. Judge Earl Drennen ordered Harris to appear back in municipal court at 9 a.m., Feb. 17.

The second individual, Janet Wynne, 57, of St. Charles, has retained legal counsel, according to O’Fallon Municipal Court Administrator Jeff Chapple. Wynne’s attorney has requested a continuance to allow time to review the police report. A court date has yet to be assigned for Wynne’s hearing.

The altercation broke out as a result of an on-going protest at the highways K and N intersection. On the east side of Hwy. K, a politically conservative group, the K&N Patriots, has gathered every Saturday afternoon since mid-summer. As health care reform legislation began to be debated in Congress, the west side of Hwy. K was

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During the final moments of the demonstration, Harris, a member of the K&N Patriots, crossed over to the west side and allegedly became involved in an altercation with Wynne. O’Fallon police officers arrived shortly after the argument broke out, issuing summons to both Harris and Wynne, according to a police department press release.

While it does not indicate who, the press release indicates one of the two parties sustained minor injuries during the scuffle.

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Bu llet i n Boa rd Fort Zumwalt A chili cause Fort Zumwalt South Middle School held its fifth annual Chili/Soup Cookoff on Nov. 20, raising more than $600 to help South Middle families over the holidays.

More than 28 different kinds of soup and chili were sold to staff members in the library during lunch.

From the many cooks, the judges awarded Robin Frankie with first place in the chili category, Tracy Clark received first place for her white chili, and in the soup category, first place went to Linda Blackwell.

Students give thanks To give thanks to staff and teachers, the students in Melissa Costello’s class at DuBray Middle School planned and organized a formal Thanksgiving feast.

The students studied the origin of Thanksgiving during the month of November and in alignment with their study of problem solving methods for planning and organizing an event, the students presented the feast to the staff of DuBray Middle School.

No hunger here The Leadership Classes in the Fort Zumwalt high schools participated in the “No Hunger Holiday” campaign last month at the Cottleville Knights of Columbus Hall.

Boxes were filled with turkeys, potatoes, canned goods, and many other items to benefit approximately 1,500 families in the area.

Art anyone?

The public is invited to view drawings, mixed media, oils, acrylics and watercolors created by sophomores and juniors at Fort Zumwalt East High School.

The exhibit, which is under the direction of artist and teacher Jami Schoenewies, opens on Dec. 18 and continues through

Dec. 31 at the O’Fallon Cultural Arts Gallery in the Renaud Spirit Center.

Gallery admission is free. For more information about the exhibit, contact Darren Granaas at dgranaas@ofallon. mo.us or 474-8150.

Francis Howell Vaccinations complete The Francis Howell School District will not be holding additional H1N1 Flu vaccination clinics, as the vaccine is becoming more available and will soon be reaching doctor offices.

Children and adults that are in the priority groups set by the Center for Disease Control can check out several sources in the St. Charles and St. Louis area including: www.FluClinicLocator.org; www. vnastl.com or www.TakeCareHealth.com.

Holiday bookstore At the Early Childhood Center at Meadows Parkway, children enjoyed shopping at the recent Holiday Bookstore.

Students picked a book to purchase for a child in need. After paying with “pretend” money the children took the books back to their classroom to wrap. The wrapped books were placed in a collection box by the Christmas tree in the lobby.

Books will be presented to families in our community who may not have had any books this holiday season.

Teachers earn high credential The Francis Howell School District recently announced 15 teachers have earned the highest credential in the teaching profession, National Board Certification.

The district now has 73 teachers that have achieved this distinction, more than any other district in the state.

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children learn,” said Superintendent Renée Schuster. “We are very proud of our members who have gone through the demanding process that leads to National Board Certification.”

The certification, through the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards, is a voluntary process in which teachers work to advance the quality of teaching and learning. The process is a stringent one that takes more than a year to complete.

The teachers will be recognized for their accomplishment at the Jan. 7 Board of Education meeting.

Wentzville Green Tree principal honored Dr. Todd Kraft has been selected as the Outstanding Assistant Principal by the St. Louis Suburban Elementary Principals Association (SLSEPA). Kraft, the assistant principal at Green Tree Elementary School in Lake Saint Louis for the past four years, is considered a mentor and exceptional leader by his students and staff.

Fellow faculty members describe him as organized, child-centered, energetic, having a warm personality and wonderful sense of humor and as someone who models positive character traits.

“Green Tree Elementary is such a great place to work and I am fortunate to have the opportunity to contribute to our school environment,” Kraft said. “I enjoy coming to school each day because I have the opportunity to help our students grow socially and academically. It’s always a great experience developing positive relationships with our students and staff at Green Tree Elementary.”

Kraft will be recognized by SLSEPA at a regional meeting on Jan. 21, and then again at the Missouri Association of Elementary School Principals (MAESP) state conference in March.

SWAT school Two members of the Saint Charles County SWAT Team paid a visit to seventh grade DARE students at Frontier Middle School earlier this month.

Officers Joe Litzinger and Ed Smith, who

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They brought two of the team’s SWAT vehicles and a variety of equipment to show the students.

Officer Smith explained that their vehicles and equipment are paid for with money seized during drug arrests and he invited students inside one of the armored vehicles and spoke about its many protective features.

Frontier’s Security Resource Officer Bill Dolan, who arranged for the visit, said it is important that students understand police officers’ vital role in the community.

“Unfortunately, kids think all police officers do is write tickets, when in actuality, that is only a small portion of their job. I want them to see up close what these officers do every day to protect us and keep our community safe,” Dolan said.

More than 200 seventh-grade DARE students from the Wentzville School District participated in the demonstration.

Final Shot Students in the Wentzville School District will have their last chance to receive the H1N1 vaccination on Sat., Dec. 19, at Holt High School.

Children who are between 3 years and 9 years of age who have received an initial vaccination during one of the previous clinics can receive either the FluMist or the injectable vaccine from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. on a first come, first serve basis.

Community residents between the ages of 3and 21 who live within the district boundaries can receive the vaccine on a first come, first serve basis from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines recommend that children less than 9 years of age get a second vaccination separated by at least 28 days.

All children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

The State of Missouri has an H1N1 hotline to answer questions regarding flu symptoms, when to receive medical care, and questions about the vaccination. For questions, call 1-877-FLU-4141.

DECEMBER 16, 2009 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

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22 I NEWS I

DECEMBER 16, 2009 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

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By Jeannie Seibert Facing an already bleak prospect for 2010, St. Charles County government officials received yet another blow during the ongoing budget sessions when the October sales tax numbers came in the first week of December.

According to county Finance Director Bob Schnur, sales tax revenue for January through October 2009, already projected downward, came in at 5.78 percent below 2008.

“That’s a little more than 3 percent down from our estimates,” Schnur said.

Still, Schnur is holding out hope that an inordinate number of businesses have just been late in making sales tax payments.

Either way, it results in a hard blow to an already battered budget.

County officials are trying to give at least minimal raises in 2010 to those employees whose salaries were determined to be lower than the market average based on a pay study made in 2008. The budget proposal includes a larger contribution to all employees’ health insurance and retirement funds as well.

Anticipating the economic downturn would continue to affect county government revenues well into 2010, County Executive Steve Ehlmann, at the outset of the budget process, requested all department heads submit flat budgets or, expenditures for 2010 to be held to about the same level as in 2009 and no additions to staff for at least another year.

Other requested allocations in the initial budget proposal were made but almost all at an amount less than the requested amount - some were even below the 2009 allocation.

As an example, University of Missouri Extension requested $175,000 and the recommended budget allocation was for $131,250. Now, even that may be in jeopardy.

Between the Dec. 1 and Dec. 7 budget sessions, the October sales tax revenue report came out. In response to the lower than expected income, two council members submitted recommendations for even more budget cuts.

Council member Nancy Matheny (Dist.

3) found 14 items that could be reduced or reevaluated. Her proposal notes indicate printing and utilities estimates could be a little too high, for instance. Another, $80,000 for Economic Development Center (EDC) marketing, Matheny suggested be held for now and funded at a later date. In all, Matheny recommended $423,500 in cuts.

“We may make a lot of people angry,” Matheny said. “Some of us may be running

for re-election next year but now is the time to make some difficult decisions.”

Council member Paul Wynn (Dist. 4) is more than ready to make some difficult decisions. But, from his vantage point in Iraq he is only able to make recommendations to the other council members.

Communicating his input via e-mail, Wynn asked the council to consider cutting completely 10 line items amounting to a little more than $637,000 including: University of Missouri Extension, Community Assistance, the Economic Development Center, Mideast Area Agency on Aging, St. Charles County Fair, St. Charles County Historical Society, St. Charles County Symphony, Volunteer Clearing House, Regional Chamber and Growth Association (RCGA) and Workforce Development.

“These items may be nice to have during positive economic times,” Wynn wrote. “… they are not necessities during this current stressed economy. …the best way to provide charity and help for those who need it is to allow the private sector to step forward and provide assistance for our fellow citizens in need. This is not the role of government.”

It appears that Matheny has the preferable recommendation however. The majority is leaning toward reductions in more line item allocations rather than a complete shut-off with no advance notice to a handful of recipients.

Matheny also suggested revising the assumption that there would be an economic recovery starting in the latter half of 2010. “(The) budget was built on a 3 percent reduction of sales tax, whereas it now looks like a reduction of 5.78 percent,” Matheny said. “The budget we are looking at assumes a 1 percent increase in estimated 2009 sales taxes. Now we know that 2009 was estimated too high.”

She also recommended county government look at ways to assist local retailers and commerce centers as an economic stimulus.

The initial budget recommendation included a mini-stimulus plan as well.

Of all the reductions and spending holds placed on virtually every department, only the highway department was to receive some increased spending in 2010.

Schnur reflected the concern felt throughout the courthouse when the sales tax revenue report came out the first week in December.

“It’s tough right now with revenue sources diminishing,” Schnur said.

The total recommended budget expenses from all revenue sources came in at $251 million. This may be rolled back before the budget is finalized on Jan. 1.

DECEMBER 16, 2009 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

I NEWS I 23

Weldon Spring

Residents troubled by burglaries

By Amy Armour A string of small burglaries have hit some Weldon Spring subdivisions.

One of the victims—Al Schroer —attended the Weldon Spring Board of Aldermen meeting on Dec. 8 to complain about a lack of police involvement.

Schroer lives in Whitmoor, the upscale gated community located off Kisker Road.

The subdivision currently has the gate closed at night, 24-hour video surveillance and a police presence in the area. But that didn’t stop thieves.

Schroer said the burglars entered the unlocked garage and stole items from the unlocked cars. Schroer said his daughter’s wallet was stolen. Two other burglaries took place recently, he said.

“There’s been no breaking in. They are coming into the garage and going through the cars in the garage taking small items like sunglasses, iPods, wallets, purses and cash,” Schroer said. “They’re only taking small items they can carry.”

Schroer said a neighbor has video surveillance which captured footage of two teenagers on foot, with backpacks, who read the sign stating video surveillance and quickly backtracked. Schroer said the footage was taken right around the time his car was burgled.

“The police were called. We filled out a

police report and the police were interested in the video surveillance, but then there’s been no response,” Schroer said.

Alderman Don Stelling, who is a former police officer, said he is 100 percent sure the burglars are local kids.

“These are local kids on foot,” said Stelling. It’s a crime of opportunity, with no forced entry, he said.

Jim Gallagher, who lives in Highland Estates, said two of his neighbors’ houses have been burglarized.

“I know we pay for a police presence, but I’m sorry to say I don’t see it,” Gallagher said.

The city contracts with the St. Charles County Sheriff’s Department, which provides the city with four hours of police presence a day.

“We encourage (the police) to hit every street,” said Mayor Don Licklider.

Gallagher questioned why the city did not have its own police department because Cottleville—which is half the size of Weldon Spring—has its own police department.

Licklider said Cottleville charges property taxes—and Weldon Spring does not.

Gallagher suggested starting a property tax in Weldon Spring to pay for a police department, but Licklider said that would be up to a vote from the public.

99 Corners Spin-off rally site starts in Wentzville as K&N Patriots begins ‘spin-off’ campaign

By Jeannie Seibert St. Louis Tea Party founder Bill Hennessy was so motivated after attending a few K&N rallies, held from noon until 2 p.m. each Saturday, that he put out the word through the St. Louis Tea Party Web site challenging his followers to follow Janet Allquist’s lead. Allquist was the original protestor at K&N. Setting a goal of establishing regular rallying sites at 99 heavily trafficked intersections, Hennessy urged his group to adopt Allquist’s successful model as a method to heighten awareness of pending legislation that, as the group states, could have unintended consequences to an already burdened economy.

“This is a very important project and will have an immediate impact on the national debate,” Hennessy wrote in his action alert post on the Web site.

The Tea Party followers are rising to the challenge. According to the Web site, regularly scheduled rallies like the K&N

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Wentzville Patriots include, from left, founder Susan Koob, Wentzville, Jeff Wells, Troy and his daughter Allison who have answered the challenge of the 99 Corners project.

Patriots protest are springing up all over the metro area. From Florissant to Arnold, Alton to Warrenton, small groups are staging their own version of the K&N Patriots.

Organizers Susan and Ed Koob have set up shop in front of Walgreens each Saturday from 3 p.m. until 4 p.m. and have attracted about 30 fellow travelers so far.

They also get encouragement mixed with the occasional universal symbol of disapproval from passers-by.

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24 I NEWS I

DECEMBER 16, 2009 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

O’Fallon joins St. Louis County in questioning AmerenUE’s rate hike proposal Communities concerned that rate hike could go as high as 18 percent

By Casey Godwin AmerenUE won’t get a rate hike without a fight. The St. Louis County Municipal League, along with municipalities including O’Fallon, Ballwin and University City, recently began taking steps to oppose the possible rate increase, which could be as high as 18-percent. By filing an amicus to oppose the increase, county and city officials are hoping to get the utility to finally answer questions about residential street light fees.

The goal for many municipalities has been to find a cost reduction solution for street lights, which are rented from AmerenUE. However, without understanding the charges that have been in place sometimes for decades, many officials have not been able to find a way to cut costs.

Tim Fischesser, executive director for the Municipal League, said cities have approached AmerenUE with alternatives, but that these alternatives somehow cost the same as keeping the current street light scenario.

For example, AmerenUE said that even retrofitting existing street lights with energy efficient bulbs would still equate to the same rate.

“We just have to pay a certain amount per month per each light,” said Fischesser.

“That became frustrating because Ameren is saying put in whatever you want to put in, but your bill is not going to go down.”

O’Fallon decided to join the fight to ward off the cost of an 18-percent rate hike.

“An 18-percent increase in electricity bills could lead to about $100,000 more a year on what the city pays for street lights,” said O’Fallon spokesperson Tom Drabelle.

Drabelle said the city has spent the last year evaluating their residential street-light system to find ways to cut back on costs.

“We saw that we had a few surplus street lights that we did turn off this year,” Drabelle said. “That actually went very well, but it’s an ongoing process that we’re going to be looking at regardless of the increase.”

Ballwin has tried to take another approach.

As one of AmerenUE’s largest residential street light customers, the city tried to find cost reduction by purchasing street lights from the utility. AmerenUE offered the city 15 street lights at $5,000 each, but did not clarify how the cost was obtained.

Ballwin city administrator Robert Kuntz said he has not been able to determine if the cost includes depreciation of the equipment or whether the equipment is even in good repair.

“We don’t know where they got that number from,” Kuntz said. “Was it a negotiated rate? Would it apply to other municipal fixtures or just those 15 in Ballwin?

We’re really left with more questions than answers.”

The concept of purchasing light fixtures from the utility is new and AmerenUE is under no obligation to sell any of its lights.

Other cities have also recently looked into the idea, but have run into the same problem – too many questions and not enough answers.

Fischesser said because AmerenUE hasn’t presented any records of maintenance on lights, there’s no way to tell if owning the lights would really equate to cost savings.

Currently, most cities pay about $19 a month for each light fixture. The energy cost for each is usually only a small portion of that bill, typically around $3 to $5.

“Cities have been looking at the street lighting costs with a general goal of trying to lower costs 15 or 20 percent,” said Fis-

chesser. “So then the rate increase came along and not only did we not lower the bills, we’re now looking at an 18 percent rate increase.”

In July, the utility filed a request with the Missouri Public Service Commission (PSC) for an 18-percent rate hike. The commission has one year to decide how much of an increase, if any, AmerenUE should get.

“We’re looking at about $450,000 (annually) if this rate hike goes,” Kuntz said.

“We’re about a little over $400,000 right now. We don’t know if the rate hike only affects the energy cost.”

Fischesser said that if AmerenUE does get the requested increase, many cities may be forced to turn off certain percentages of lights in order to cut costs.

At Mid Rivers Newsmagazine press time, AmerenUE had not responded to questions.

The Municipal League and municipalities that filed the amicus have not yet met with the PSC, but hope that AmerenUE might turn over requested records to resolve these issues without the intervention of the PSC. “It may be that during this process Ameren can negotiate with us and if that is satisfactory, then we’ll no longer intervene in the rate case,” Fischesser said.

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Restaurant & Bar

Customer Appreciation

ChristmAs PArty Free Dinner saturday December 19 6pm to 8pm roast Beef, turkey, ham and much more!

Absolutely Free must be 21

$

50

Per tiCKet inCluDes:

• top shelf Open Bar • Full Buffet 7-9pm • Champagne toast • entrance to show Ticket Does Not Include A Seat Or Table Reservation All Table Reservations $75 Per Ticket

4744 Mid Rivers Mall Dr. Cottleville MO 63376

For Tickets Call Paul 636-477-7468 or 636-219-6607

www.theBabylonclub.com

DECEMBER 16, 2009 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

Gift tes a c fi i t r Ce le!

Availab

Best

I 25

Selection in Town Over 30 Styles to Choose From!

S hoeS Y ou L ove T o W ear

10 OFF

$

00

Any Regular Priced Pair of Boots or Shoes

Must present coupon. Not valid with other offers. Expires 12/31/09

Holiday Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-7pm • Saturday 10am-4ish

On Hwy K between O’Fallon Rd. and Hwy N (Next to Lou Fusz Dodge Chrysler Jeep)

636-379-4600

Introducing the all-new

Newsmagazine Network com

www.HeartAndSole.com

Featuring: • Daily updates on the local news that matters to you.

• Extended coverage of our print stories.

• Digital version of the latest print editions.

• More local and national opinions.

• Expanded coverage of prep sports.

• Calendar of upcoming area events.

• Exclusive content on the issues and ideas that impact your life.

We’ve made the internet just small enough to fit in your backyard.

NewsmagazineNetwork.com Now the official Web site of West and Mid Rivers Newsmagazines.

26 I Gift guide I

DECEMBER 16, 2009 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

Massage

Waxing

Holiday Gift Cards Available with special rewards

Pro Lipo Acrylic Nails Botox

Makeup

Manicure & Pedicure

an essential part of your daily routine

Boutique

Laser Hair Removal

Hair Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy

newsmagazinenetwork.com is updated daily with the local news, events and information that impact your world.

Facials

636-625-8772 2327 Technology Dr. O’Fallon www.spawinghaven.com

NewsmagazineNetwork.com is now the official Web site of West Newsmagazine and Mid Rivers Newsmagazine

Holiday Sparkle For Her We buy gold - receive cash or double the cash value towards any stock item.

Arcobasso Jewelers 2917 Highway K • O’Fallon (636) 978-9888 • www.arcobassojewelers.com

Give The Gift Of Good Taste At C.R. Frank Popcorn customers will find the most unique gourmet popcorn tins in town.

The perfect gift for families, friends & associates!

C. R. Frank Popcorn 5757 N. Lindbergh Blvd • St. Louis (one mile north of I-70) (314) 731-4500 •www.crfrankpopcorn.com

C.R. Frank Popcorn & Supply Co.

Spa Gift Certificates For BOTOX, Hormone Replacement Therapy, Laser Services, Skin Care, Hair, Nail Care and Massage.

Spa WingHaven Day and Medical Spa 2327 Technology Drive • O’Fallon (636) 625-8772 • www.spawinghaven.com

Need a Last Minute Holiday Gift?

G i v e The Gif t of Good Taste!

Gourmet

Old Fashioned

Popcorn

Carmel Corn

Tins Made

Cheese Corn Kettle Corn

to Order

A Jewelers

Butter Corn

C. R. Frank Popcorn & Supply Co. Conveniently located 1 mile north of Hwy. 70 & Lindbergh at 5757 N. Lindbergh

2917 Highway K. • O’Fallon, MO 63368 www.arcobassojewelers.com

2917 Highway K. • O’Fallon, MO 63368 www.arcobassojewelers.com • (636) 978-9888

314-731-4500 or 1-800-467-2653 Mon-Fri: 8am-4:30pm • We Ship Anywhere

www.CRFrankPopcorn.com

WE BUY GOLD

2917 Highway K. • O’Fal lon, MO 63368 www.arcobassojewelers .com

Extended Holiday Hours!

Mon-Fri 10-6pm • Sat 10-4pm • Sun 12-4pm

DECEMBER 16, 2009 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

I gift guide I 27

Think Christmas Think Willow Lake!

Sweets For The Holiday Exceptional quality cakes beautifully decorated for the holidays. 1/4 sheet cakes for $15.99 or 8” decorated cakes for $11.99 The Bakery Shoppe 2956 Hwy. K • O’Falllon Crossing Shopping Ctr. Hwy. K & N • O’Fallon (636) 294-4331

Give A Gift Certificate With Real Choices Full service salon & spa services, beauty products and unique gifts! $10 Bonus with any gift certificate of $50 or more!

The Powder Room 311 Main St. • St. Peters (636) 970-0010 • www.apowderroom.com

Holiday Gifts For All Wine Lovers Choose from wine stockings, gift baskets, handpainted glasses, plus delicious assortment of wines.

10% Off Wine Holders Vintners Cellar 973 Waterbury Falls • O’Fallon (636) 300-9960 • Vintnerscellarofallon.com

636.294.4331 2956 Hwy K - O’Fallon

O’Fallon Crossing Shopping Center at Hwy K & N

Exceptional Quality Cakes

Home Decor Antiques & More Voted Best Antique Store in St. Charles County - 2nd year in a row

1/4 Sheet Cakes $15.99 8” Decorated Cakes $11.99 New York Style Cheesecake $14.99 Fresh Baked Apple Pies $6.98 Fresh Baked Cookies • Holiday Stollens Christmas Party Trays OPEN DAILY 5am-5pm OPEN Christmas Eve until 3pm

Excellent Stocking Stuffers Tokyo Milk Lip Balm – Soothing, healing sensation for those dry cracked lips. As seen on “Oprah’s Favorite Things”. Starting at $11.95 Willow Lake 1120 Technology Dr., Suite 113B • O’Fallon (636) 300-3349

Say It a boutique Winery On Wine WHY GIVE A BORING BOTTLE OF WINE? CUSTOM LABELED BOTTLES ARE: MEMORABLE —“For Xmas all our family members get a bottle of wine with our family picture” FUN and UNIQUE—“We gave one with a picture of Jim at the casino and that’s what everyone talked about the rest of the party!”

AFFORDABLE—“We expected the wine and labels to be Expensive - this is inexpensive” Prices start at $15 for the label and bottle of wine PRIVATE PARTIES—“You feel like you’re at home, without the clean up and set up!” “You step in here and feel like you are in another world - it’s adorable”

Labels Created While You Wait.

Our Minimum is ONE!

112o Technology Dr • O’Fallon

Persimmon Pointe Market • Suite 113b (Hwy K & 40 across from Cracker Barrel)

636-300-3349

Happy Holidays from the Powder Room

$10 Bonus Card

With every $50 gift certificate purchase Gift Certificates available to purchase & print at www.APowderRoom.com

Gift Certificates Available 973 Waterbury Falls Dr. O’Fallon, MO (636) 300-9960 www.vintnerscellarofallon.com

NEW LOCATION! Just one store around the corner

(636) 970-0010 311 Main St. • St. Peters

Unique Gifts, Salon & Spa

28 I Gift guide I

DECEMBER 16, 2009 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

Merry Christmas From

Ozenkoski’s

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

Home Decor & Gifts

Bakery

Featuring Tie the Knot Cakes

A Great Holiday Tradition Kringle Stollens, a rich Danish dough filled with Kringle filling of almond paste. Hand rolled and shaped into a beautifully decorated Christmas tree.

Starting at $8.95 Ozenkoski’s Bakery 350 Mid Rivers Mall Drive • St. Peters (636) 387-7044

Baking Memories Since 1963 Home of the Best Gooey Butter Coffee Cakes!

• Pies • Rolls • Cakes • Stollens • Danishes • Cupcakes • Brownies

& More!

Kringle Stollens Now Available!

• Seasonal Decor • Gift Baskets • Huge Selection of Holiday Gourmet Foods • Lamps • Art • Mirrors • Accessories • Stocking Stuffers • Handcrafted Hutches & Furniture • Missouri Made Products

Planet Fun Gift package includes $25 Gift Certificate, T-shirt, and a 50-token voucher.

Planet Fun 5849 Suemandy Dr. • St. Peters (636) 397-7700 • www.gotoplanetfun.com

Open Christmas Eve Until 3pm 350 Mid Rivers Mall Dr.

Tues-Sat: 6:30-6pm

www.TieTheKnotCakes.com

Sun-Mon: Closed

636-387-7044

Relax From Head to Toe 1-hour Elemental Nature Massage with a Classic Pedicure at a 10% savings! Priced at $99 Salon De Christe’ (636) 946-2805 2880 West Clay • St. Charles (636) 939-2229 3901 MidRivers Mall Dr. • St. Peters www.salondechriste.com

Mon.-Sat. 10-6pm • Sun 12-5pm

636-332-3888

1155 Wentzville Pkwy Suite 107

(in Rizzo’s Plaza, 1/2 mile from 40/61)

The Ultimate Salon & Day Spa

10% OFF*

All Gift Certificate Purchases!

Good for 5 years! No fees, No chargebacks.

Hair Care Services • Massage Skin Care • Style Makeovers Nail Services • Body Treatments

A Gift For Everyone Personalize your gift with monogrammed wine stoppers, wine glasses, cocktail napkins, mats, coasters, tumblers and jewelry. Great gifts for everyone on your list.

Priced from $9.99 - $19.99 The Wooden Door - Home Decor & Gifts 1155 Wentzville Pkwy. Suite 107 • Wentzville (636) 332-3888

12,000 Sq. Ft. of FUN!

Order Gift Certificates for the Holidays online! www.SalonDeChriste.com

2880 West Clay

St. Charles One block east of Zumbehl off Hwy 70

636-946-2805

636-397-7700

3901 Mid Rivers Mall

5849 Suemandy Dr.

636-939-2229

(in the Mid Rivers Plaza) visit: www.gotoplanetfun.com

3 miles south of 70,

*Not to be combined with other offers. Valid thru 1/15/10.

for info on parties, group events, & more! locally owned & operated

Book Your Birthday Party for 2010 by 12/31/09 and SAVE!

DECEMBER 16, 2009 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

Carerra Digital Race Car Set Race set includes 3 cars for passing and lane changing. New technology, more action for ages 8+. Other sets available. Priced at 195.99 A Pocketful of Toys 9987 Winghaven Blvd. • O’Fallon (636) 561-3222

Caerleon Rings Caerleon – the evolution of fine jewelry. Twenty Styles.

Multiple metal choices. Hundreds of interchangeable centers. What more could you want? Starting at $600 Krekeler Jewelers 2938 Hwy. K • O’Fallon (636) 978-7870 • www.krekeler.com

Why?

Jobs and Wages.

Locally owned businesses create more jobs locally and, in some sectors, provide better wages and benefits than chains do.

I gift guide I 29

... for that extra

special gift

We Carry Miche Bags!

• Handcrafted Jewelry • Miche Handbags • Baby Gifts • Childrens Gifts • Webkinz & Japanese Erasers

• Whimsical Holiday Decor • Cheryl Mackay Designs • Tina Shackleford Designs • Accessories

5343 HWY N In Historic Cottleville 636-939-3070 Find out more: newsmagazinenetwork.com

www.poshuniqueboutique.com Extended Holiday Hours November - December Monday - Saturday 10 - 5 Thursday 10 - 7 • Sunday 12 - 4

Interchangeable Handbags Miche handbags available in Classic or new Big Bag style. Large assortment of interchangable shells.

Classic Bag starting at $62, Big Bag starting at $78 Posh Unique Boutique 5343 Hwy N • Cottleville (636) 939-3070 • www.poshuniqueboutique.com

great

Available at

family games for ages 3-103!

9987 Winghaven Blvd. • O’Fallon

Holiday Hours: Mon-Sat: 10am-8pm • Sunday: 12pm-5pm

636-561-3222

ViSit Our WildWOOd tOy StOre

unique toy And Game • 16530 Manchester rd.

www.uniquetoyandgame.com

2938 Hwy. K at Hwy. N • O’Fallon, MO 63368 (Behind Steak & Shake) 636-978-7870 • www.Krekeler.com

30 I Gift guide I

DECEMBER 16, 2009 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

Makes Studying Fun is designed to Sales and Repair “It 25% OFF* engage the student Any One Item!

$10

in learning.”

*not valid with any other offer, discount, or coupon. Not valid on G.C.’s, books, in-homes, or sp. orders. Valid thru 12-24-09

Jeff Minnis, StudyX creatorEXPIRES

in store or remote repair

One coupon per visit and must present the original coupon

Expires 12/16/09 14360 Manchester Rd Manchester, MO 63011

(636) 256-7901 jeffcomputers.com

2

$60

UniqueforGift Items!

Holiday Tableware Ornaments For Exchange Expires 12/16/09 Initial Items Hand Painted Wine Glasses Everyday Decor Celtic Collection Wreaths Holiday Arrangements

3070 Winghaven Blvd. • Lakeside Shoppes near Hwy 40/61 (636) 561-4611 • www.TheWhiteHare.com

The Perfect Study Mate StudyX is designed to engage the student in learning.

Makes studying fun. Complete Sales & Service of all computers. Priced at 2 for $60 Jeff Computer 14360 Manchester Road • Manchester (636) 256-7901 • www.jeffcomputers.com

studyx.com (636) 256-7901 The Gift For Her Choose from a full line of bareMinerals by Bare Escentuals make up and skin care. Make a special package for your loved ones on your holiday list. Starting at $12 Salon Visions 854 Bryan Rd. • O’Fallon (636) 978-3150 • www.salonvisions.com

Mon-Thu 10-7, Fri & Sat 10-8, Sun 12-5

Now Available at Beautiful Initial Items Monogrammed garden flags! A perfect gift for anyone.

Each flag is hand-crafted and done in a beautiful cream and black applique stitching. Priced at $16.99 The White Hare 3070 Winghaven Blvd. • O’Fallon (636) 561-4611 • www.TheWhiteHare.com

Massage, Schedule a Free

Haircuts Color Matching and Today! more...

Makes Studying Easy

Sales and Repair 636.978.3150 854 Bryan Rd. OFallon Mo 63366

$10

Jeff Minnis, StudyX creator

in store or remote repair

One coupon per visit and must present the original coupon

Expires 12/24/09 14360 Manchester Rd Manchester, MO 63011

“It is designed to engage the student in learning.”

(636) 256-7901 jeffcomputers.com

$34.99 Expires 12/24/09

studyx.com (636) 256-7901

DECEMBER 16, 2009 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

I 31

Check Out the

FITNESS FEST

Jan. 9 • 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

www.stpetersmo.net • 636.939.2FUN

Bu si ness

Grand opening

PEOPLE Jason Wiegand, of Lake Saint Louis, has joined St. Louis-based Guarantee Electrical Company as director of preconstruction services.

Wiegand

NETWORKING & WORKSHOPS The eWomen Network will hold a Holiday Networking and Shopping Extravaganza from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Fri., Dec. 18 at Bogey Hills Country Club in St.

Charles. Accelerated networking rounds and shopping are featured. For more information and to register, call Donna Gamache at 314-968-9664 or visit ewomennetwork. com.

• • • St. Charles Community College will present “Buff and Polish: How to Portray a Professional Image” from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Thurs., Jan. 14 at St. Charles Community College’s College Center Rotunda.

For more information and to register, visit edcalliance.com.

• • • University of Missouri Extension Small Business Development Centers will offer

The mother/daughter team of Gail Logsdon and Nicole Moss on Nov. 18 celebrated the grand opening of Moss, a specialty clothing and alterations boutique located at 424 S. Main Street in historic St. Charles. The owners were joined by family, friends and St. Charles Chamber of Commerce ambassadors and board members.

“Introduction to QuickBooks,” a twosession computer workshop featuring hands-on learning in a computer lab, from

6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Tues., Jan. 19 and Thurs., Jan. 21 at 260 Brown Road in St. Peters. Call 970-3000 before Jan.12.

ZEI s ER k I a Y E a R END s a L E s E V EN T NO MONE Y DOWN PRICING!

Zeiser

2009 SORENTO 4WD LX OWN fOR $329/MO*

Auto Group

Zeiser KIA North County 955 N. Lindbergh Blvd.

Florissant, MO 63031 314-831-6590 (2.25 miles north of I-270 on N. Lindbergh serving St. Louis County)

#K2190

OWN fOR $259/MO* rnmen 5 Star gove

The Ultimate Buying Experience!

Zeiser KIA St. Peters 4955 Veteran’s Memorial Parkway St. Peters, MO 63376 (On the I-70 South Outer Road between Cave Springs and Mid-Rivers Drive)

2009 OPTIMA LX

#K2246

t Safety

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Six airbags, a/C, aM/FM/CD/MP3/Satelli

2009 RIO LX

2010 fORTE LX

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Over 50 In Stock! te Ra

dio

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SaLe PRICeS INCLuDe aLL INCeNtIVeS wIth NO MONey DOwN OR tRaDe. NOt eVeRyONe quaLIFIeS FOR aLL INCeNtIVeS. MONthLy PRICINg FOR 72 MOS @ 5.74% FINaNCINg wIth aPPROVeD CReDIt. thIS IS $16.45 FOR eaCh $1,000 FINaNCeD. taxeS, tItLe, LICeNSe, aND aDMINIStRatIVe FeeS extRa. exCLuDeS aND CaNNOt Be COMBINeD wIth OtheR OFFeRS aND PRIOR SaLeS. See DeaLeR FOR DetaILeD waRRaNty INFORMatION. SaLe eNDS 01/04/10.

www.STLOUISKIA.COm

636-926-2110

32 I health matterS I

DECEMBER 16, 2009 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

Healthy holiday appetizers

By SUE HORNOF Those trays of tempting appetizers that seem to lurk everywhere this time of year can spell disaster for those with diabetes or heart disease and for anyone who is trying to shed some extra pounds. Here are some healthful recipes that guests can enjoy without the guilt.

Red and Green Bell Pepper Boats Serves 8; 3 pieces per serving Flavorful toasted almonds and zesty lemon-pepper contrast nicely with crisp bell pepper pieces in this festive appetizer.

1 medium green bell pepper

Wanting to stay independent? Place your trust in us.

Our Caregivers are:

Typical Services Include:

• Compassionate & Loving • Dementia Disease Trained • Carefully Screened & Selected

• Bathing, Personal Care & Dressing • Walking & Exercise Assistance • Meal Preparation/Clean-up • Light Housekeeping/Laundry • Medication Reminders/Set-up • Assistance with Errands/Outings • Emotional/Spiritual Support • Nurse & Manager On-Call 24/7

(636) 447-9393 Celebrating Four Years In Business!

2 minutes, or until creamy. Add the ground almonds and beat for 10 seconds, or until combined.

Spoon the mixture into a piping bag fitted with a wide star or round tip. Or, snip the corner off a re-sealable plastic bag (a plastic freezer bag works well) and spoon in the mixture. Pipe about 1 teaspoon of the mixture onto each bell pepper piece. Garnish with the sliced almonds.

Nutrition analysis (per serving): 57 1 medium red bell pepper calories, 4 g fat (1.5 g saturated fat, 0 g 1/4 cup sliced almonds 4 ounces low-fat cream cheese, softened trans fat, 0.5 g polyunsaturated fat, 1.5 g 1 teaspoon salt-free lemon pepper sea- monounsaturated fat); 8 mg cholesterol; 43 mg sodium; 3 g carbohydrates; 1 g fiber; soning blend 1 g sugars; 1 g fiber; 2 g protein. Dietary 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice exchange: 1 fat.

(Recipe © 2006 by the American Heart Cut each bell pepper in half lengthwise; discard the stems, ribs, and seeds. Cut each Association, courtesy of the American half into six pieces. Arrange the pieces with Heart Association’s Go Red For Women the skin side down on a decorative serving movement. Additional recipes can be found in American Heart Association platter. Set aside.

In a medium skillet, dry-roast the cookbooks and online at americanheart. almonds over medium heat for 3 to 4 org/cookbooks.) minutes, or until golden brown, stirring occasionally. Transfer 1 tablespoon of the almonds to a small plate and reserve for garnishing. Process the remaining almonds For more healthy appetizer recipes, in a food processor or blender for 15 to 20 including Roasted Red Bell Pepper and seconds, or until finely ground.

Artichoke “Tapenade” and Creamy Black In a medium mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, lemon pepper seasoning blend, and Bean Stack Dip, visit newsmagazinenetlemon juice with an electric mixer for 1 to work.com.

Ultimate 12 Week Physique Transformation

INNE W R

636-922-5320 636-300-9010 6047 Mid Rivers Mall Dr. Cottleville Weight loss body Composition

1120 Technology Dr. Suite 117 O’Fallon

before Competition

after

208 lbs.

175 lbs.

44.3%

31.3%

lean ( +3.7)

116.4 lbs

120.2 lbs

Fat (-36)

91.6 lbs.

54.8 lbs.

Rebekah Olsen

How did you get started with FT? Rebekah has always been health and fitness conscience and knew what she needed to do but had to have the accountability and the motivation to follow through with it. Right before she started Fitness Together she was working long hours at her job and started realizing she needed to do something for herself.

What did you like about FT the most? Rebekah needed the accountability to follow through with a consistent exercise plan. Fitness Together gave this to her and allowed fitness to become a lifestyle and something she missed when she wasn’t able to work out regularly.

What made you decide to enter the contest? It was a “no brainer” since she was working out anyway.

What do you credit your success? Rebekah credits a lot of her success to the trainer’s knowledge about fitness and general nutrition. She also benefited from the friendly personal setting which made it fun to workout on a regular basis. “For about 3 years I was pouring my heart into a job working anywhere from 60 to 70 hours per week which turned into eating a lot of junk food, not spending anytime to care of myself, and gaining a lot of weight. The problem wasn’t that I didn’t know what to do it was that I didn’t have the accountability, discipline, and motivation to follow-through with what I knew. The other problem was that going to a regular gym was completely unattractive to me. Then I discovered Fitness Together and it all came together. FT had expert trainers who really cared about my health and pinpointed my fitness and nutritional needs. They also gave me that accountability that was always missing as well as a close family atmosphere that made me feel I didn’t want to let the trainers as well as myself down.”

DECEMBER 16, 2009 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

GAS-N-SHOP

I 33

Career training close to home!

CONVENIENCE STORES

3601 Harry S. Truman Blvd. • St. Charles MO 63301

636-949-2885

Now enrolling in the fields of

Computer Technology, HVAC and Electrical Mechanics

Cigarettes • Liquor • Wine & Beer Low Price Cigarettes: EDGEFIELD, DECADE, EXETER: $ 17.99 CT $ 1.99 PK

Harry S. Truman Blvd Cave Springs

West

MARLBORO & CAMEL:

NEWPORT: $ 4.19 A PK

WHEN YOU BUY A 2 PK

$

Enrolling Now...

Call Today!

3.99 A PK

Large Variety Liquor Selection Cold Wine Money Orders Only 49¢ Hunts Brother Pizza

I-70

I-70

MARLBORO: $ 33.99 CT

We are also enrolling in our Medical Assistant Associate of Occupational Studies Program!

East

Everyday Low Price FOUNTAIN SODA 32oz. OR 44oz. 69¢ COFFEE 16oz. 79¢

4¢ OFF

1-877-206-5844 www.vatterott-college.edu

Per Gallon On Gas or Diesel

50¢ OFF $100 OFF On Pizza Slice

Limit 15 Gallon Expires 12/31/09

Expires 12/31/09

On A Pizza

Expires 12/31/09

We have flexible day, evening and weekend classes available, call to learn more!

927 E. Terra Lane O’Fallon, MO 63366

$1500 Tax Credit

Free Digital Thermostat or Humidifier with Any System Purchase

e You

o Serv

Since

t rucks er 40 T

v

1963 O

New Carrier Furnace Installed Only...$995 or Complete Carrier System Only...$2,995

2 1/2 Ton 13-seer 70,000 BTU 80% AFUe

St. Louis 314-732-0601 • St. Charles 636-224-4565 www.schneiderservice.com

6 MONTHS

INTEREST FREE FINANCING

Available on select Carrier systems with approved credit. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Ask for details. Expires 1-21-10.

$68.00

FALL FURNACE TUNE-UP

Not valid with any other offer. With this ad only.

Please present ad at time of service.

Expires 1-21-10.

$25 OFF ANY REPAIR

(Excludes Diagnostic Charge) Not valid with any other offer. With this ad only.

Please present ad at time of service.

Expires 1-21-10.

We Service All BrAndS!

24 Hour emergency Service 7 dAyS A Week

100% Satisfaction Money Back Guarantee

If for any reason you, the original purchaser, are not satisfied with your Carrier system, as the original installing contractor Schneider, we will repair the problem to your satisfaction or remove the Carrier products and refund the purchase price. This guarantee will remain in effect for one year after the original installation date. Price does not include ductchanges, electric modifications or refridgeration lines,or gas lines

34 I

DECEMBER 16, 2009 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

“Uncle” Merle Schneider

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

Your Uncle Wants YOU to have Cash to Buy a Home ...

GET THE FACTS NOW

Call 1(800) 240-6298 ext. 2051 for 24-hr Hotline and Recorded Informational Message

First Time Buyers Get $8,000 or if you Have Owned a Home for 5 Consecutive Years of the last 8 Years Get $6,500

Com mu n it y Event s

LUNCHEONS

HOLIDAY ‘Drop ‘n Shop’ will be offered from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m., Dec. 18, for children age 3 through fifth-graders, at Dardenne Presbyterian Church, Hwy. N at Winghaven/Bryan Road. Parents are invited to drop their kids off on the last Friday before Christmas and do a little last minute shopping or go on a date. The children will enjoy pizza and games as well as Christmas songs, crafts, and a movie. This event is totally free to the community, but reservations must be made in advance. To RSVP, e-mail Brenda@crosshavenchurch.com; or call 639-6775

ONGOING Grief Education Classes will be held from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Tuesdays from Jan. 12 to March 23, and at 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Fridays from Jan. 15 to March 26 at Baue Funeral Homes located at 608 Jefferson Street in St. Charles. Advanced registration is required for the free classes. For additional information or to register, call 328-0878 or e-mail kellyk@baue.com.

• • • The Youth Hunter Education Challenge (YHEC) Program at the August A. Busch Conservation Area is accepting applications from young outdoor enthusiasts for

the 2010 season of activities. Participants learn the fundamentals of shotgun, rifle, archery and muzzleloader shooting. Additionally, they learn Wildlife Identification, map and compass Orienteering and more.

YHEC participants get hands-on training in eight outdoor skill areas. There are no fees to join, however, participants are asked to make the commitment to develop their skills in all eight areas of challenge.

Those interested should call Frank Scott at 673-1283 or fsyhec@yahoo.com.

• • • Survivors of Suicide Support Group will meet from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. on the first and third Monday of each month at Baue Funeral Homes located at 608 Jefferson Street in St. Charles. This support group, led by Life Crisis Services, is appropriate for adults. Advanced registration is required for the free classes. For additional information or to register, call 328-0878 or e-mail kellyk@baue.com.

• • • Young Widows Group will be held from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on the first and third Wednesday of the month at Baue Funeral Homes located at 608 Jefferson Street in St. Charles. This program is designed to educate men and women and provide emotional support to the unique experience of young widowhood. Advanced registration is required for the free classes. For addi-

A Full Service Mobile Veterinary Clinic!

NEW

CLIP & SAVE THIS AD!

15% OFF 1st Visit WITH COUPON

Dr. Jaime Plappert

tional information or to register, call 3280878 or e-mail kellyk@baue.com.

Christmas Puppy Owners ...

Call Us!!!

If your visits to the veterinarian are stressful to you and/or your pet, then our practice could be the perfect answer.

MobileVet

“Veterinary care in the comfort and convenience of your home”

314-566-6545 www.stlouismobilevet.com

Global Spectrum and The Saint Charles Convention Center invite struggling families and neighbors to a free luncheon from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sat., Dec. 19, at the convention center. A variety of donated items will be available for distribution, including winter coats. Families can learn more about the community services available to assist them, while enjoying an elegant holiday buffet. For more information, call 669-3000.

ART The Oak Leaf Artist Guild will hold its 2009 Holiday Art Show “People and Places at Christmas” through Mon., Jan. 25 at the St. Peters Community and Arts Center located at 1035 St. Peters Howell Road. For more information, visit oakleafartistguild.org.

CONTEST The “Big Read” will include a Mark Twain essay contest and book cover design contest. Both competitions have an entry deadline of Jan. 15, 2010. For the essay contest, participants are asked to organize their ideas around a thesis about the novel “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer.” Entries will be judged in three categories: student entries (grades 4-8), student entries (grades 9-12), and adult entries. Winners will receive a gift card to an area bookstore. The book

636-946-5553 Ext 237

cover design contest gives participants an opportunity to design their own version of a book cover for “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer.” Selected illustrations will be published as the covers for the winners of the essay contest. Essay topics as well as entry forms, rules and regulations for both contests are available at foundryartcentre.org.

TRIVIA The seventh annual Sports Trivia Championship Presented by Budweiser will be held on Fri., Feb. 12 at the Chaifetz Arena at Saint Louis University. Sports celebrities and broadcasters will be on hand and an ultimate sports prize package will be given away. The night will benefit the St. Patrick Center. For more information, call 314-802-5445 or visit stpatrickcenter.org.

CHARITY “Rise to the Knead,” an evening with Fr. Dominick Garramone, host of the popular PBS show Baking Bread with Fr. Dominic, will be held on Sat., Jan. 2 in the parish hall at Immaculate Conception of Dardenne located at 7717 Hwy. N. Come listen to Fr. Dom weave together stories, Christian reflections and Scripture while incorporating the traditions of baking. Proceeds benefit the local St. Vincent de Paul Society.

Tickets are $25 per person and include dinner of an assortment of soups, salad, a plethora of bread and a holiday cookbook.

To order tickets call the parish office at 561-6611.

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for a sure slugfest between two of the best teams in the area.

Francis Howell – Last season the Vikings advanced to the quarterfinals of the Challenge Cup and should be solid again this season. Players to watch this season are senior Sean Smith (7 goals, 2 assists) and junior Andrew Helbig (5 goals, 2 assists).

Francis Howell Central – Before Mid Rivers Newsmagazine went to press on Friday afternoon; the Spartans carried a six-game winning streak. Senior Alex Syrigos (8 goals, 1 assist) and sophomore Chase Rey (8 goals, 6 assists) are Howell Central’s main scoring threats. Senior Daniel McPeak (5 goals, 5 assists) and junior Jalen Krogman (5 goals, 6 assists) are also known to put the puck in the net for the Spartans.

Francis Howell North – The Knights are off to a solid 5-1-2 start with senior James DeMarco Jr. (11 goals, 4 assists) proving to be one of the top offensive threats in the area. Juniors Michael Pavolka (7 goals, 5 assists) and Andrew Ortscheid (7 goals, 7 assists) are two more scoring threats in the Howell North lineup this season.

St. Charles West – While the Warriors have won just four of their first 10 games of the 2009-10 season, that hasn’t kept senior Benjamin Ward from racking up 10 goals and 7 assists this season. Junior Michael Pelts (7 goals and 2 assists) is also known for putting the puck in to the net and lighting up the lamp.

Wentzville Holt – At 5-3 this season, the Indians should prove to be one of the solid teams in the St. Charles conference. Sophomore Cory Kettler (8 goals, 4 assists) is a solid scoring threat this season along with classmate Austin Flynn (4 goals, 5 assists).

Wentzville Timberland – The Wolves have been up and down at the start of the season with a record of 3-4-1. But some bright spots on the Timberland roster are senior Joseph Starke (8 goals, 1 assist), junior William Quillman (2 goals, 5 assists) and senior Tyler Anglim (5 assists).

Schnucks

By Stephen Glover With Old Man Winter finally here, the start of the high school hockey season is only fitting for many hockey fans as schools prepare for a run into the playoffs this coming March.

Duchesne – The Pioneers reached the semifinal round of the Wickenheiser Cup last season before losing to MICDS 4-3, 3-1. Duchesne fans should keep an eye on seniors Blake Caimi (7 goals, 4 assists), Ethan Muffett (5 goals, 2 assists) and Ross Hester (5 goals, 7 assists) during the 200910 campaign. Mark Jan. 4 on your calendar as Duchesne takes on Ft. Zumwalt West at the St. Peters Rec Plex South at 8:45 p.m.

The Pioneers will try to avenge an 11-2 loss to the Jaguars earlier this season.

Ft. Zumwalt East – Zumwalt East will try to climb up the standings of the MSCHA North Division with junior Nicolas Arella (7 goals, 4 assists) and freshman Alex Klaesner (6 goals) providing a good portion of the Lions offensive firepower this season.

Ft. Zumwalt North – After opening the season at 0-4, the Panthers proceeded to win three of their next five games. Senior center Thomas Wilson knows how to serve up a good goal situation with three goals and 17 assists this season. Other players to keep an eye on this year are senior rightwinger Brett Adame (8 goals, 3 assists) and senior left winger Brendan Dugger (8 goals, 6 assists). Juniors Schandler Rogers (5 goals, 3 assists) and Sam Crowder (5 goals, 2 assists) have also proven to be offensive threats in the Zumwalt North lineup this season.

Ft. Zumwalt South – The Bulldogs lost to St. Louis University High in the first round of the Challenge Cup last season, and figures to be solid again for the 200910 campaign. Junior Alex Mundt (8 goals, 6 assists) and sophomore Timothy Livingston (5 goals, 3 assists) provide a good amount of offensive firepower to the Zumwalt South lineup. Also look for seniors Mitch Iken (3 goals, 6 assists) and Justin Lincoln (4 goals, 2 assists) to knock in a goal or two every couple of games.

Ft. Zumwalt West – The Jaguars are going to be tough this season. In fact, don’t be surprised at all if Zumwalt West makes it to the Challenge Cup semifinals this season. Senior Ryan McGrath (11 goals, 14 assists) is one of the best players in St. Charles County. Also keep an eye on seniors Jon Crocker (6 goals, 10 assists) and Joseph Bostic as well as juniors Dylan Clark (7 goals, 3 assists), Alex Wetteroth (6 goals, 8 assists). Check out the Jaguars Jan. 9 game at 8 p.m. against CBC in Affton

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36 I Lucky Spring is a lucky find DECEMBER 16, 2009 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

Lucky Spring features tableside service from a menu written in both English and Chinese. There are standby favorites such as Lo Mein, Sweet & Sour Pork and General Tao’s Chicken, all prepared fresh when ordered, but such American favorites are the mere tip of the menu options.

The renowned gourmet Chinese delicacy is Beijing Duck, and Lucky Spring has it on the menu seven days a week. Beijing (a.k.a. Peking) Duck traditionally takes days of prep before actual cooking – hence its limited availability at most Chinese restaurants. Cai’s Beijing Duck arrives beautifully bronzed, thinly sliced with its crispy skin attached. Served with lighter than air steamed buns and a hoisin-flavored dipping sauce with shaved scallions, it is an unforgettable treat.

Also seldom seen on a menu and well worth exploring are the Lucky Spring Shrimp Balls. (Think shrimp hushpuppy, only larger, lighter and delicately flavored.)

“Shrimp Balls are one of our customers’ favorites,” Lucky Spring Bu said. “They make a good 1350 Triad Center Drive • St. Peters appetizer or a good light (636) 928-0380 dinner.”

Hours: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday-Thursday; Another good shrimp dish 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday-Saturday is the Walnut Shrimp – large

By SUZANNE CORBETT Lucky are those who travel off the beaten path and discover Lucky Spring, the authentic Chinese eatery tucked along Triad Center Drive just off Jungermann Road.

“We’re a little hard to find, but once here, our customers are happy they found us,” said Richard Bu, who along with Lucky Spring owner Lily Yuan promises diners the most authentic Chinese dining experience in St. Peters.

“We specialize in Szechuan and Cantonese foods,” Yuan said as she described the menu overseen by Lucky Spring’s Chef Cai. “Mr. Cai brings to the area a chance to taste real authentic Chinese food culture.”

Cai, a native of China, spent 10 years honing his culinary skills in California before coming to St. Louis. When Yuan and Cai met and discovered one another’s culinary talent, they decided to launch the restaurant, which opened in October.

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shrimp glazed with a mild white sauce, topped with sugar-glazed walnuts and garnished with steamed broccoli flowerets.

For those looking for something spicy hot, there is the Sliced Fish with Black Bean Sauce.

Soups and appetizers always are a great source for exploring new tastes, and exceptionally good among Lucky Spring’s offerings are the Sizzling Rice Soup, Barbecue Pork and Chicken Lettuce Wraps.

The diversity of Lucky Spring’s menu is the result of Cai’s extensive knowledge and the quality ingredients that he uses. To further expand the menu, dim sum recently was added on weekends.

“It’s just another thing we wanted to do to bring things up to another level,” Bu said, adding that Cai is a master of dim sum.

With both catering and gift cards available, Lucky Spring can solve those holiday party menu and gift-buying dilemmas, too.

“We’re lucky,” Bu said. “Not everyone Expertly prepared, authentic Chinese food can do what we can do here, and that’s such as Walnut Shrimp (pictured) is served tableside at Lucky Spring. what makes us different.”

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38 I

DECEMBER 16, 2009 MID RIVERS NEWSMAGAZINE

NEWSMAGAZINENETWORK.COM

Tree lighting ceremony draws record crowd to St. Peters City Hall St. Peters Voice Lab under the direction of Ron Jones and Libby Schlosser; the Ft. Zumwalt East High School Orchestra, Chris Torretta, director; and, the St. Peters Choral Society, director John Smith.

A particularly dramatic note was hit when the high school musicians provided the orchestration for the choral society, drawing an enthusiastic standing ovation from the audience.

“It may not be (politically) correct to say so but in St. Peters, we say ‘Merry Christmas,’” Mayor Len Pagano said, adding another ‘Merry Christmas’ in sign language.

Giving credit where it’s due, Pagano thanked the second longest-serving member of the Board of Aldermen, Jerry The Ft. Zumwalt East High School Orchestra, Hollingsworth, for his fundraising work Chris Torretta, director; and, the St. Peters that kicked-off the first tree lighting cerChoral Society, directed by John Smith. emony years ago.

The event has grown every year since to The bulk of the main floor of City Hall was taken up with various presentations now include an elaborate lighting display and holiday traditions, but the biggest on the lawn of City Hall “This is City Hall’s Christmas present to attraction by far was the performances of Christmas classics and new arrangements the residents of St. Peters,” Pagano said. by local musical groups including: the “This really is my favorite season.”

By Jeannie Seibert St. Peters City Hall was packed on the night before Thanksgiving, the official kick-off to the holiday season marked by the lighting of the city’s Christmas tree.

The FHC Spartan Regiment performing at Mizzou.

Spartan Regiment headed for Gator Bowl

By Amy Armour The Francis Howell Central High School Spartan Regiment marching band and Color Guard will be performing at the Gator Bowl in Jacksonville, Fla., on Jan. 1, 2010.

The band will compete in a parade and field competition against marching bands from around the country. The winner of the field competition will be allowed to perform during the pre-game festivities of the Gator Bowl.

“This is one of those fun experiences for the students who have worked really hard throughout the fall season,” said Nathan

Griffin, director of bands at FHC. All teams that compete will take part in the halftime show at Jackson Municipal Stadium. The competition is an exciting opportunity for students, but it doesn’t come without cost.

Each member of the band will need to raise $300 for band fees and $700 for the Gator Bowl trip. Students have been working to raise funds for the trip since May. The last national competition for the Spartans, in 2007, resulted in a national championship at the Cotton Bowl. Previous Spartan marching bands had also won Orange Bowl competitions.

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I 39

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r e a l e s tat e

New Listing!

Open 2-4 Sunday 12/20/09 406 St. Thomas Isle Harbors at Lake Chesterfield Manchester to Old Manchester Lft, to Pierside, Lft to Waterside, Rt. to Waterfront to ppty - Completely updated w/ HVAC, roof, siding , wood floors, finished LL w/ rec-room and two offices - Priced to sell fast at $286,000

Coleman & Cole Realty Connie Cole 314-503-4799

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