NEWS

You Easily Can Make A Better Community

People often think that they have to do something BIG in order to make a difference in the world, people’s lives, ones own life, and in the community. I am here to tell you that little things count a great deal. ‘’ A grain of mustard seed can move mountains “ is what the elders used to say! Each of us has the unique ability to make someone’s life better if we only use what we have, to make that happen. Now you may say that you barely have enough to take care of yourself ( enough money, enough time, enough clothes, enough gas, just enough of this or just enough of that) Oh, its so disheartening!

We can make our neighbor feel altogether good when we simply speak, or nod, or wave, or pick up a piece of trash that may be in front of their house. Now none of these aforementioned items cost us one dime! Think about it!

If we really set our minds to the task of finding something that we can do individually, we will soon become overwhelmed with ideas that are not wishes or bizarre, but little things that we can actually do.

Well let’s name a few to get you started and remember, if we are able to do just one thing a day, why that’s 365 things in a year! Let’s put our thinking caps on and make some suggestions like these for instance: help someone with their groceries, give a donation to the beggar, smile at someone, help someone cross the street, volunteer at a food pantry, join some auxiliary or program that needs people at a church, donate some clothes, bedding, furnishings, or furniture to charity, volunteer to help out at a school, give someone a compliment- oh, we could go on and on; however, you may realize something that you can do that is small in and of itself, but just what a certain individual needs. I know a lady that plaits another lady’s hair because the other lady has injured shoulders and can’t do it herself anymore.

Friends, its all about “ having the will to do something good” Anyone and everyone can do this and the individuals that try, will feel much better about themselves. I know this is mushy, but in these days and times, a little mush won’t hurt. It may be just the key that our society needs.

We must constantly ask ourselves the question, What can I do to make things better? Then we must act out the answer!

If you prefer, you may donate to our organization because we are constantly helping people with all kind of issues. www.gracechapelministries.org or you may email us at gracechapeldevelopment@gmail.com.

Ferguson Northern Lights – December 4

You are cordially invited to the Ferguson Northern Lights Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on Sunday, December 4, 6-8pm at the Plaza at 501 with Santa and special guest, Mrs. Claus. Including but not limited to: Christmas carolers, cookies and hot cocoa, balloon twister, juggler, and bubble bus

October is Action Time

by Rev. Larry Brown

Some of us look and wait for the opportune time to take an action. Often, that time never comes, or we miss it when it mysteriously arrives. How many times have we been found saying “ I should have done this or that then “. Sometimes, we let the moment for action pass because we are waiting for certain things to occur. These things may never occur and so we never take action or these things may occur and we may not become aware that they have happened and therefore, we have not taken action.

Sometimes this is referred to as “ procrastination”. ( Why put off until tomorrow, that which you can do today?) Sometimes we fail to take action and use the excuse “ I thought it was being taken care of “. The only real way to have the satisfaction that a needed action occurs is to do it oneself. If it has already been done, someone will let you know.

There are so many issues that need to be addressed and things that need to be done, that there is plenty room for participants and if it is obvious to you that an issue needs to be addressed, then chances are that it hasn’t been dealt with adequately.

There is no issue that is too big for you to address in some way. You may not be able to solve the entire problem, but your participation can help. We often choose not to become involved because we think that the issue is too large. If we look back at history, throughout the past, it is the action of a few that has led to the involvement of many, often over protracted and long periods of time, that have resulted in problems and issues being solved.

Somebody has got to be bold enough or committed enough to initiate or begin to address an issue.

Did you know that there are many who are “ just waiting” for someone to throw the first pitch? Then the “game is on ! “

It is very important for you to become engaged in some activity or action that will benefit the community in which you reside. Believe me, there are enough issues around wherever you reside, that you can become involved in. There are NO excuses for your failure to participate in something that will better your community (and thereby, better yourself ).

Senior citizens have needs, young kids have needs, disabled individuals have needs, churches have needs, food pantries have needs, persons who are incarcerated have needs, hospitals have needs, police departments have needs, schools have needs, neighborhoods have needs, and even businesses have needs. These are only a few of the groups who you can help.

Many issues need to be addressed and you may get involved with some of them, such as: education, politics, funding priorities for the community, keeping our streets safer and cleaner, race relations, etc. As you can see, there really is no excuse for non- involvement. If you need an organization to assist you, contact us: www.gracechapelministries.org or send an email to gracechapeldevelopment@gmail.com. You may also call us at 314-995-5013.

Ferguson offers a Plethora of Events in September!

Your Ferguson is the place to be in September!

In addition to back to school, this month Ferguson has: The Taste in Ferguson, the Biggest Yard Sale in History, Ferguson Farmers Market, the Ferguson Street fest, Cruise for First Responders, Ward 3 Steam/Creek clean-up, and the 17th annual BTC Golf Tournament!

I think we have everything happening here in your Ferguson. So come on out, enjoy your Ferguson, volunteer for your Ferguson. Don’t forget to patronize your local Ferguson businesses.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SEPTEMBER NEWS!

The 13th Annual Ferguson Twilight Run was “Excellent, Awesome, Terrific”

The one-mile, 5K, 10K, 10-mile, and inaugural FTR 13.1 races started and finished at the Plaza at 501. Individuals, families, friends, and teams gathered to enjoy the annual event that benefits local non-profits that provide healthy and active programs for North County residents. Even with the weather being hot, participants commented positively. “It was really just so much fun!,” said one race finisher in their survey feedback. Another commented that they “loved the crowd support from the neighborhoods and the route was interesting and fun.”

As in previous years (pre-pandemic), the festivities concluded with a live concert. This year, Top of the World Band, provided the energizing sounds as finishers, volunteers, and attendees celebrated. One attendee commented that “the band was very good. Love having that to listen to after that long run.”

More than 900 registered for the 2022 Ferguson Twilight Run including more than 100 individuals from 20 different states participating virtually; running at their home location and sharing their experience on social media. This year’s beneficiaries were Emerson YMCA, St. Vincent Home for Children, Girls on the Run, and A Red Circle. The profits from the race are equally distributed. Each organization received $2500 for their program. Peak Performance and Presenting Sponsors for this year’s race included Emerson, Negwer Materials, Christian Hospital BJC Healthcare, City of Ferguson and Big River Running. The planning committee thanks the City of Ferguson staff, all of the volunteers, sponsors, and especially the residents for supporting the event.

The 2023 Ferguson Twilight Run is scheduled for May 20, 2023. The committee wishes to hear the thoughts, comments, and suggestions from residents, business owners and other stakeholders as they evaluate the success, impact and future of the event. Visit https://tinyurl.com/2y4t28e8 to take the short survey.

It’s Your Turn

By Rev. Larry Brown

Often, we choose not to step in or “act” because we feel that it is not our place, not our time, or not our issue with which to become involved. We are content to let someone else, who we predetermine is more appropriate for the situation, to become the channel for solving the problem or remedying the situation. (Sometimes, that person never materializes and therefore the issue continues)

Unless the particular situation involves us directly, we very often choose not to engage! This is either for convenience’ s sake, time involvement’s sake, or we decide that it is not our issue. Until we become directly affected, we choose to remain aloof.

I wish to ask you this age – old question: If not you, then who?

We live in an age where we become affected often, by the actions of others. We are affected sometimes physically, and many times emotionally; or other’s actions or words affect our thoughts and decisions. We, therefore, should assume some responsibility for making sure that the correct and right things are seen and done because we cannot isolate ourselves and those who we hold dear, from the actions of others. We, in fact, owe it to ourselves and our posterity. ‘ No man is an island, no man stands alone “ When we see that those responsible for handling a situation are not performing effectively or can’t manage the situation appropriately, then we should offer our assistance or to put it bluntly, become involved.

This is the only way that “ right” things can prevail and wrong things can fail! Inaction is not a solution that is desirable in a wrong situation. Often, if we decide to take a positive step, others will join us because they wish to see the right thing prevail for the overall good of everyone. Today, we see an alarming increase in the number of shootings and killings in our neighborhoods. People are afraid to leave their homes and often homes become the victims of random gunshots intended elsewhere. This affects adults and children alike. It is a shame for senior citizens to have to live this way, after all that they have endured in life. Young people should not have the idea that they will die early. People should not be afraid to go to the store or to church!

We believe that “ As a person thinks, is the way that person will act”. One of the first things we must do is to return Respect for Human Life!

Sometimes, people are reluctant to become involved because they don’t feel comfortable or think that their intentions may be misunderstood, or that they may be exposing themselves to some form of danger. A way to comfortably become involved is to support organizations that are addressing the problem. You are invited to visit our website at www.gracechapelministries.org or give us a call at 314-995-5013.

13 Years! Ferguson Twilight Run

For 13 years, Ferguson Twilight Run has welcomed runners and walkers, family and friends, neighbors, visitors and so many more to enjoy a run for everyone. The annual event is Saturday, May 14 and features one-mile, 5K (3.1 miles), 10K (6.2 miles) and 10-mile distances.

A new race – FTR 13.1 – will offer participants a half-marathon distance by pairing the 5K with the 10-mile. Runners will do the 5K route first, then set off on the 10-mile course.

“We’re thrilled to come back with the full Ferguson Twilight Run experience! There’s a special energy that comes with the runners, walkers, volunteers, and neighbors who join us for the race each year, and we’re thrilled to experience that energy for the 13th year,” said Dwayne T. James, race director.

Race Start and Finish

Ferguson Twilight Run will start and finish at Plaza at 501, at the intersection of Florissant Road and Suburban Avenue.

The one-mile starts at 4 p.m.; the 5K and FTR 13.1 distances start at 4:45 p.m. The 10K and 10-mile distances start at 5:15 p.m. Routes are USATF-certified by Big River Running Company.

Free Concert

The free post-race concert returns with high-energy party dance band Top of the World. The concert starts at 7 p.m. at Plaza at 501.

Virtual Participation

All distances are offered virtually with unlimited participation; virtual races can be completed on your own schedule during race week, May 9-15, 2022.

A Run for Everyone

Ferguson Twilight Run debuted in May 2010 as the first evening race in North St. Louis County. Since the beginning, the run encourages a sense of community while supporting a common interest. Proceeds are donated to nonprofits in north St. Louis County that promote the healthy and sustainable benefits of fitness. To date, more than $100,000 has been given to community organizations through the Donnie White Sr. Memorial Beneficiary Award. The 2022 recipients are A Red Circle, Emerson Family YMCA, Girls on the Run St. Louis Ferguson-Florissant School District, and St. Vincent Home for Children.

Volunteers and Sponsors

Ferguson Twilight Run relies on countless community volunteers to plan and coordinate every aspect of the event – from the planning committee to cheer stations, water stations and road closures, start and finish area, packet pick up, informing neighborhood residents and more – to make it a success.

Ferguson Twilight Run will follow the health and safety guidelines recommended by public health and local government officials. If any changes are necessary, details will be posted online.

CONTACTS

Dwayne T. James, 314-325-2197 racedirector@fergtwilightrun.com
Nez Savala, 816-678-9071 miss_tv@yahoo.com

Wabash Neighborhood Community Garden Plots Available

By Jennifer Krupp

Never having gardened before, it was a new experience to rent a plot in a community garden. I liked the idea of growing my own food knowing there wasn’t any pesticides on it. Growing things I would eat like cucumbers, tomatoes, lettuce, and strawberries has proven – well, fruitful.

Community gardens are a great place to garden for experienced and beginner gardeners. It is an excellent way to meet neighbors, share gardening tips, and have fun in the process.

The Wabash Neighborhood Community Garden is located on the corner of Dade and Abston in Ferguson. Plots are currently available. Each plot is 4×8’ and just $15 for the year. There is also a community plot that all the gardeners take care of and anyone in the community can enjoy. Along the fence are raspberry and blackberry bushes also for your pleasure.

As a group, the Wabash gardeners gather once or twice a month to help with general tasks such as weeding the community plot and spreading mulch. Anyone can come and help! You don’t need a plot to jump in.

If you want to rent a plot, volunteer, or have any questions, please contact Shonnette at sdenisemor@hotmail.com.

So – Who’s ready to be called “gardener”?

Lion or Lamb?

“After the Storm” photo by Jeanette McDermott

Most of the holidays I enjoy are the ones that include specialty foods. This March has two of my favorite holidays: Mardi Gras with great Jambalaya & St. Patrick’s Day with green beer & corned beef and cabbage – we are all Irish for a day. No matter where I have lived throughout my life, I MUST have corned beef and cabbage on this day. Here is a little “magic” trick: before pouring a beer, place a drop of green food dye in the bottom of a glass so it turns green as it is poured. Okay, not really a trick but it looks cool and will amaze the little ones.

March is a month of cold wind, snow, rain, sleet, hail, and tornadoes, and not necessarily in that order. It also signals the beginning of trout season which can either be freezing rain, snow, or warm enough to be in shirt sleeves. In just a few weeks spring will arrive and the warm weather will follow.

As I write this, we have just received our second snow fall – this one with a lot of ice under the minor accumulation. It looks like we are to get another round this week which makes me wonder if March will come in like a Lion or a Lamb.

Stay warm, stay safe… and kids, don’t be getting in bad.

Papa Deau

Baby, It’s Cold Outside!

As I write this, the temperature is 7 degrees but sunny. I love winter.

My grandson asked me yesterday what my favorite season is. I told him spring because everything seems to be coming alive again. But I love all the seasons here in Missouri. That is one of the reasons I love Missouri: it has all the seasons. Winter is pretty much in full swing in February which gives us a good reason to snuggle with our love ones while we enjoy a warm fire, movies, and hot chocolate.

Groundhog day, although not a holiday we get off for, gives us hope that winter will soon be over and we will be dreaming of warmer weather, longer days, and a chance to shed our extra layers of clothes. But I absolutely love February because it has Valentines day and after this short month: trout season opens.

February also gives us the cold weather that attracts the eagles along our great river-ways which is a good reason to get outside and enjoy the beauty of our world.

I pray you all have a wonderful February. Stay safe, stay warm, and stay connected with your family and loved ones.

Papa Deau

CONTACT

FERGUSON CITYWALK
110 Church Street
Ferguson, MO 63135
(314) 524-5197
EMAIL

 

CONNECT

facebook_lg twitter_lg