O'Fallon Update newsletter - Summer 2012

Help available for O’Fallon’s low-income homeownersCould you use an extra $5,000 to help with

home repairs? Projects like replacing an

aging heating/cooling unit, repairing a roof

or replacing windows are a few of the eligible

repairs for O'Fallon's Home Improvement

Loan Program.

Low- to moderate-income homeowners

may apply for a five-year forgivable loan of

up to $5,000 to address City code violations

and make home improvements.

More information about O'Fallon's Home

Improvement Loan Program is available at

www.ofallon.mo.us/Grants. Or, call 636-

379-5411, or email [email protected].

I t’s time to join your neighbors and celebrate America at the annual Heritage & Freedom Fest on July 2 – 4 at the Ozzie

Smith Sports Complex. This year’s event will again feature great music, fun shows, carnival rides, free activities for the kids and spectacular fireworks displays.

On July 4th, we’ll start the day off with one of my favorite events of all, the Heritage & Freedom Fest Parade. There’s nothing quite like looking down Main Street and Tom Ginnever

Avenue and seeing the throngs of people clad in red, white and blue, waving flags and cheering as the floats pass. Check out page 3 for all of the details on this year’s event.

Of course, there’s a whole lot more going on this summer in O’Fallon. The River City Rascals are back in action with affordable tickets, lower concession prices and lots of great giveaways. There’s no better way to spend a relaxing summer night. Don’t forget to try one of my special “Mayor Bill’s Big Dogs” the next time you are out at T.R. Hughes Ballpark.

Tuesday nights are filled with music at the free Jammin’ concerts in Civic Park. Each week features a great local band, so check out the schedule on page 25 in the Parks & Rec Guide and bring your lawn chair out to the hill for an evening of great music.

O’Fallon’s parks are looking better than ever too. Brendan’s Playground in Westhoff Park already is the best playground in the area, and it’s about to get better as we complete a new splash pad this summer. And, Alligator’s Creek Aquatic Center is open all summer long if you need to cool off.

You can find it all here in the “O,” so get out and have a great time all summer long! And, please remember to shop your local O’Fallon retailers and restaurants. They make all of these great events possible.

Bill Hennessy, Mayor

Heritage & Freedom Fest highlights a summer of entertainment

O’Fallon UpdateSummer 2012 • www.ofallon.mo.us

See reverse for Summer Parks & Rec Guide

The Official Quarterly Publication of the City of O’Fallon, Missouri

Brendan’s Playground gets new splash pad Brendan’s Playground in Westhoff Park has quickly become one of the most popular places for children in the entire City of O’Fallon, and now, it’s getting “cooler.” Work already has begun on a new splash pad at the playground. Kids of all ages will be able to cool off on those hot summer afternoons without ever leaving the playground. The splash pad should be open in just a few weeks.

In this issue3 Heritage & Freedom Fest

6 Upcoming Events

8 Police Bulletins

9 Roscoe’s Den

10 Senior Corner

11 Focus on O’Fallon

12 City Calendar

Ele

cted

Offi

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s Mayor Bill [email protected]

Ward 1 CouncilmembersBill [email protected]

Rick [email protected]

Ward 2 CouncilmembersRose [email protected]

Jim [email protected]

Ward 3 CouncilmembersRichard “Rick” [email protected]

John Haman, [email protected]

Ward 4 CouncilmembersBob [email protected]

Jeff [email protected]

Ward 5 CouncilmembersMike [email protected]

Michael [email protected]

Citizens First Center636-379-5553

City Hall636-240-2000

Police (Non-emergency)636-240-3200

O’Fallon Senior Center 636-272-4180

Trash and Recycling 636-272-0477

O’Fallon Water & Sewer636-281-2858

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Utility bills merged; O’Fallon Water and Sewer office moved to City Hall

With the recent consolidation of O’Fallon’s water, sewer and trash billing, residents now will receive only one bill for all of their City of O’Fallon utility bills. These bills can be paid online at www.ofallon.mo.us, via mail or in person at the O’Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall). The former O’Fallon Water and Sewer offices on Elm Street have been closed and moved to City Hall, so residents can pay everything in one place.

O’Fallon welcomes Mike Hurlbert as Economic Development Director

Michael Hurlbert has joined O’Fallon’s staff as the Economic Development Director. He brings nearly 20 years of experience in economic development, real estate, planning and project management to O’Fallon. He previously has worked at the firm of Peckham, Guyton, Albers & Viets, Inc. (PGAV), where he served as Senior Project Manager since September 2008; as a Planner and Economic Development Administrator for the City of Creve Coeur; and as a

Project Planner for the City of Chesterfield. He also has held other private sector positions in real estate.

“To have an opportunity to represent the City of O’Fallon is a tremendous honor,” said Mike Hurlbert. “On a personal level, I really feel like this position is bringing my career full circle. My family moved to St. Charles County many years ago so my father could work in O’Fallon. Later, I started my career working on projects in and around the City. I have seen this area grow from a small community

of about 15,000 people to one of ‘America’s Best Places to Live’ and one of the largest cities in the State of Missouri. I am also excited to work with the City staff, the elected officials, the Chamber of Commerce and the vibrant business community to continue to expand and support O’Fallon’s great quality of life.”

Mr. Hurlbert holds a Master of Arts degree in Urban Affairs from Saint Louis University and a Bachelor of Arts in Business Management. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Planners, the American Planning Association (APA) and the APA’s Economic Development Division.

Festival District declared for July 2, 3 and 4

Residents living near the festival grounds can view information about road closings and other restrictions online at www.heritageandfreedomfest.com. Or contact the City Clerk at 636-379-5555 for more information.

28th Annual Firecracker Run Wednesday, July 4, 7 a.m.

The O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce is proud to host the 28th Annual USATF-Certified Firecracker Run at T.R. Hughes Ballpark. Visit www.ofallonchamber.org/firecrackerto register for the 10K, 5K and 1-mile Fun Run/Walk.

Media CenterGet the most up-to-date news in your inbox

Stay connected to O’Fallon with the electronic version of the O’Fallon Update. These

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about your hometown. And, it’s all free! Just go to www.ofallon.mo.us and enter your

email address in the registration box. All the latest news is only a click away.

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Celebrate America’s birthday with an explosion of fun and music at O’Fallon’s Heritage & Freedom Fest

O ’Fallon’s 2012 Heritage & Freedom Fest at the Ozzie Smith Sports Complex will open with a colorful carnival on July 2

and go out with a bang on July 3 and 4.

• On Monday July 2, from 5 – 10 p.m., the carnival will be the focus of the evening with exciting rides for all ages and a colorful midway.

• On Tuesday and Wednesday, the Freedom Fest will become the greatest show in St. Charles County, with nationally-recognized musicians and a grand celebration. Enjoy family-friendly side shows, free kids’ activities, carnival rides, crafters and vendors, festival food and beverages, and fireworks lighting up the night sky. Admission is free, and free parking and shuttle service will be provided on Tuesday and Wednesday.

O’Fallon’s Heritage & Freedom Fest Parade Wednesday, July 4, 9:30 a.m.

Dress in red, white and blue and join the crowd along Main Street and Tom Ginnever Avenue in cheering for the largest, most patriotic Independence Day parade in St. Charles County. Prizes and trophies will be awarded for parade entries which best exemplify the theme, “Salute Our American Heritage.”

The 2.1 mile parade route begins at the corner of Main and Third Streets, heads north on Main Street, turns east on Tom Ginnever Avenue, and ends at T.R. Hughes Boulevard near the festival grounds.

Celebrate freedom!

Get a discount on carnival ticketsSave time and money by purchasing carnival tickets in advance at 50% off. The half-price tickets will be good July 2 – 4, and will be sold June 11 – 30 at the Renaud Spirit Center and at the O’Fallon Parks and Recreation office. Ride tickets are non-refundable.

Tuesday, July 35 – 11 p.m.

5:00 – 6:00 Borderline

6:30 – 7:45 Jamie O’Neal

8:45 – 10:15 David Nail

10:15 Jena “Dusty” Mielke Fireworks Spectacular

Wednesday, July 4Noon – 10 p.m.

2:15 – 4:45 Fat Pocket

4:45 Parade awards

5:45 – 7:00 Carolina Liar

8:00 – 9:30 Vertical Horizon

9:30 Jena “Dusty” Mielke Fireworks Spectacular

Monday, July 2 • “Family Night”5 – 10 p.m.

Carnival and midway open. No fireworks.

Please note, T.R. Hughes Boulevard and Cool Springs Industrial Drive will temporarily close for one hour before fireworks shows.

The Jena “Dusty” Mielke FireworksSpectacular is presented by

heritageandfreedomfest.comSummer 2012

www.heritageandfreedomfest.com

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Get involved in the fun!

Be a part of the festival as a volunteer! Contact Volunteer Services at [email protected] or 636-379-5507.

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Rock ‘n Roll dominates the Main Stage on Wednesday

On July 4, shake, rattle and rock on to the music of two great alternative bands. Carolina Liar (“I’m Not Over,” “Show Me What I’m Looking For”) will open for festival headliner Vertical Horizon (“Everything You Want,” “Best I Ever Had”).

Popular regional band Fat Pocket will perform music throughout the afternoon.

The Marvelous Mutts – A Canine SpectacularJuly 3, show times at 6, 7:30 and 9 p.m.July 4, show times at 3, 5, and 7 p.m.

Did you know that some dogs can fly? Rescued from animal shelters and trained to compete as sports dogs, the athletic Marvelous Mutts love to entertain, defying gravity as they soar into the air after balls and Frisbees, fly (almost) through obstacle courses at top speed, perform tricks and interact with the audience. Don’t miss this thrilling, jaw-dropping canine spectacular. More at www.themarvelousmutts.com .

Kids’ Area – Free!July 3, 5 – 9:45 p.m.July 4, noon – 9 p.m.

Enjoy hours of free family fun in the Kids’ Area, with giant inflatables for kids to romp on, a Graffiti Wall for creative writing and drawing, games, crafts and educational fun, too.

Special Family Night at the carnivalMonday night, July 2, 5 – 10 p.m.

With the carnival and midway the focus of this special evening, it’s a perfect time for families to go on rides together, play carnival games on the midway, and snack on funnel cakes, cotton candy, hotdogs, snow cones and other treats.

Unlimited ride wristbands will be available for Special Family Night only, and must be purchased on-site.

Music, fireworks, entertainment, fun!Tuesday, July 3, 5 – 11 p.m.Wednesday, July 4, noon – 10 p.m.

Hear David Nail, Vertical Horizon, Jamie O’Neal, and Carolina Liar in concert, free, at the 2012 Heritage & Freedom Fest.

Bring a lawn chair or blanket for seating around the Main Stage, and listen to great music followed by spectacular fireworks displays after the final concert.

Tuesday night is country music night with Grammy-nominated stars

Country superstar David Nail and country vocalist Jamie O’Neal will perform on July 3.

Missourian David Nail is best known for the hit song “Red Light” and the 2011 Grammy-nominated “Turning Home.” His newest hit, “Let It Rain,” topped the Hot Country charts this year.

Vocalist-songwriter and three-time Grammy nominee Jamie O’Neal will open for Nail. Fan favorites include the songs “There is No Arizona,” “When I Think about Angels” and “Somebody’s Hero.” High-energy country band Borderline will open Tuesday’s show.

Heritage & Freedom Festwww.heritageandfreedomfest.com

David Nail

Jamie O'Neal

Vertical Horizon

Carolina Liar

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Hone your fishing skills with the expert outfitters from Cabela’s at the free catch and release pond. Always wanted to fish, but never tried the sport? No worries, they will even bait the hook!

Tips for enjoying the festival

July is typically hot and humid, so dress for comfort, drink fluids and use sunscreen. For relief from the heat, step into the air-conditioned Heat Relief Tent. Paramedics and an ambulance will be near the festival entrance to assist with overheating or injuries.

Please do not bring:

• Fireworks

• Pets or animals, except service animals such as seeing-eye dogs

• Bikes, skateboards, motorized coolers or scooters, skates or rollerblades. These items cannot be ridden on festival grounds.

• Glass containers of any kind

• Guns or weapons of any kind

• Coolers are permitted but they are subject to search by police officers, park rangers and parks personnel.

Thank you for recycling!

Fun continues in the Kids’ Area

Nitro Joe Science Booth

Nitro Joe’s dazzling experiments show kids and adults just how

fun and exciting science can be. Catch the demonstrations

throughout both days whenever the Kids’ Area is open.

Hoop Connections

Kids and parents, too, can “hoop it up” on Wednesday from 4 –

9 p.m. and learn how to twirl modern versions of the hula hoop.

Parking at Heritage & Freedom Fest

General parking – Free parking is available at Fort Zumwalt

North and Christian high schools (off Tom Ginnever Avenue).

Air-conditioned buses will shuttle patrons to a drop-off point

near the festival grounds.

Premium parking – Want a “prime” parking spot? Park at the

T.R. Hughes west parking lot and enjoy the festivities without

the hassle. Available on July 3 and 4, only, the cost is $5 on a

first-come, first-served basis.

Disabled parking only at Westhoff Park – Disabled patrons

are invited to take advantage of parking at Westhoff Park with

a free shuttle to the festival entrance. A handicapped license

plate or tag must be displayed for admission—no general

parking will be allowed at this lot. There will be no disabled

parking and shuttle service available at other parking lots.

Thank you, 2012 Heritage & Freedom Fest sponsors!

A Better Pizza AFB International Arrowhead Landscaping Bank of Old Monroe Blue Sky Café

Cabela’s Chick-fil-A Community News Culligan Water Curtis, Heinz, Garrett & O’Keefe

Great Southern Bank Jeremy’s Market & Meats Madison’s Café Marshall Ford Noll’s Restaurant & Lounge

O’Fallon Brewery Pantera’s Pizza Papa John’s Pizza PROformance Signs & Graphics Sno-Biz

Rendezvous Café & Wine Bar River City Rascals White Auto Body

Upcoming Events

O’Fallon Jammin’ Outdoor Concert Series Tuesdays, June through August6:30 – 9 p.m., Civic Park Bandstand – Free!

New hours! Concerts start one hour later this year. Bring along chairs or blankets for lawn seating around the bandstand and listen or dance to different bands and genres at each concert, including rock and roll, country, rhythm and blues, Motown, pops, Big Band, swing, jazz, and Broadway show tunes. Concessions will be available, and an ADA-accessible kids’ playground and restrooms are nearby. To view the full band schedule visit page 25 in the Parks & Rec Guide or go to www.ofallon.mo.us/Jammin .

Tour the O’Fallon Historical Society Log Cabin Museum2nd, 4th Sundays through September12 – 3 p.m., Civic Park Open June 24, July 8 and 22, August 12 and 26, and September 9 and 23

Meet and chat with the people who know O’Fallon’s history best as you tour the log cabin museum. Admission is free; donations are welcome.

The museum’s collection of O’Fallon artifacts includes a doll-house sized replica of Zumwalt’s Fort, Wabash Railroad items, 19th Century clothing, an immigrant’s trunk, a folding bed for covered wagon travel, small town business items and more. A history book, O’Fallon, Missouri: A Good Place to Live is available for purchase. Tours also are available by appointment by contacting [email protected] . For more information, visit www.ofallonmohistory.org .

Enjoy the competition at Alligator’s Creek Aquatics Center3rd Annual Cardboard Boat RaceSunday, July 84 – 6 p.m., Alligator's Creek

It’s Shipwrecked Pirate Day at Alligator’s Creek Aquatic Center. Make a two-person boat out of cardboard and duct tape, bring it to Alligator’s Creek and race across the pool for prizes. Pay daily admission to get in (with or without a boat). Race entry fee is $8. For more contest details, see page 8 of the Parks & Rec Guide on the reverse side of this newsletter.

10th Annual Alligator’s Creek TriathlonSunday, August 197 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Swim, bike and run for a morning of fun right here in O’Fallon. For details, turn to page 8 of the Parks & Rec Guide on the reverse side of this newsletter, or visit www.ofallon.mo.us/ParksandRec/Triathlon .

Pool Paws Dog Swim at Alligator’s Creek, Bone Hunt in Civic ParkSaturday, September 811 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Have fun with your dog, win prizes and enjoy socializing with other dog owners. More details on page 9 of the Parks & Rec Guide.

Heroes of Summer Volunteer Donor Blood Drive Friday, July 1311 a.m. – 3 p.m., O'Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall)

Your life-saving help is needed! Blood banks tend to run low in the summer, but the need is as high as ever. Please donate and keep local blood bank supplies ready to meet the need for blood due to accidents, surgeries, chronic illness and other emergencies. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments help speed the donation process. The blood drive is sponsored by the Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center and the City of O’Fallon. Contact Volunteer Services at 636-379-5507 or [email protected] .

O’Fallon UpdateCity of O’Fallon Newsletter

www.ofallon.mo.us/Events

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Bluegrass Concert and Ice Cream Social Saturday, July 285 – 7 p.m., Fort Zumwalt Park – Free!

Bring a blanket or lawn chair and listen to George Portz and the Friends of Bluegrass perform outside the Historic Heald Home. Free ice cream! Tours of the historic Heald house will be available at $2 per person.

Taste German Wines at the Heald HomeSaturday, August 42 – 4 p.m., Fort Zumwalt Park

With architectural features influenced by local German culture, the historic Heald Home offers an atmospheric retreat for an afternoon of sampling German wines and finger foods provided by Rendezvous Café and Wine Bar. Learn how to distinguish the different categories of German wines and test your knowledge with a trivia game. Please register in advance for this program by calling 636-379-5606; the cost is $8 for residents and $10 for non-residents. The registration deadline is Friday, July 13.

Pirate Treasure HuntSaturday, September 152 – 4 p.m., Fort Zumwalt Park

Sign up for this outstanding pirate-themed hunt for treasure hidden in Fort Zumwalt Park. To get you started, you’ll get a clue and then navigate to hidden locations for additional clues and activities, and a puzzle piece, too. When you find all the pieces, put them together to zero in on the hidden treasure. The cost is $5 for residents and $7 for non-residents. The registration deadline is Friday, August 24.

Patriotic CeremoniesNational Day of Service and RemembranceSaturday, September 8O’Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall)

Sign up for projects in honor of the heroes and in memory of the victims of the attacks of September 11, 2001. Contact Volunteer Services at 636-379-5507 or [email protected] to inquire about the following:

• Remembrance Walk, 9 – 9:30 a.m.

• Citizens United in Service, 9:30 a.m. – noon (Projects supporting First Responders)

• Blood Drive, 9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. (Appointments encouraged.)

Patriot Day Ceremony Tuesday, September 118:30 a.m., Outside the O’Fallon Police Department

Everyone is invited to attend this stirring ceremony honoring first responders and remembering the victims of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.

POW/MIA Remembrance Day Ceremony Friday, September 217 p.m., O’Fallon Veterans Memorial Walk

Join in a candlelight ceremony honoring and remembering the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces who remain missing in action or imprisoned on foreign soil.

Fall Fest Street DanceFriday, October 12, 5 – 10 p.m.Civic Park Drive – Free admission and parking

Local rock band Contagious headlines the entertainment. Concessions will be available at a nominal fee.

28th Annual Fall Fest Saturday, October 13, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.Civic Park – Free admission and parking

Enjoy live music and entertainment, kids’ activities, shopping at arts, crafts, and specialty booths, and festival food and beverages, too. Artists and crafters are invited to apply for booth space. Visit www.ofallon.mo.us/FallFest for details.

10th Annual Fall Fest 5K Fun RunSaturday, October 137:30 – 8:30 a.m., Start/finish at Municipal Centre (City Hall)

Set your own pace in this 5K (3.1 mile) run/walk for all ages. Cost varies from $13 to $20. Register online at www.ofallon.mo.us/FallFest5K or call 636-379-5606.

www.ofallon.mo.usSummer 2012

indicates opportunities for volunteers. Contact Volunteer Services at 636-379-5507 or

[email protected].

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Police Bulletinswww.ofallon.mo.us/PD

Lost a pet?Whether you’ve lost a pet, found a stray, or have a wildlife concern, the O’Fallon Police Department’s Animal Control Division offers several options that can help.

• Leave a voice message describing the problem by calling 636-240-3200; press 1 for Animal Control/Dispatch

• Check www.facebook.com/ofallonanimalcontrol to see if a lost pet has been picked up.

• Get information about reclaiming an impounded pet and City animal control ordinances and procedures at www.ofallon.mo.us/PD .

Adopt a stray dog or catTake your pick of dogs, cats, kittens and puppies in need of homes at Animal Talk Medical Center, the veterinarian facility that houses strays and unwanted animals picked up by O’Fallon’s Animal Control Division. When strays are not claimed by their owners, they are put up for adoption for a limited time.

To see photos of adoptable pets online, visit Animal Talk Medical Center on Facebook. Or, go to Craigslist at http://stlouis.craigslist.org/pet and then search for “Animal Talk.” The facility is located at 12678 Veterans Memorial Parkway in Wentzville. To visit one-on-one with adoptable animals, call 636-332-5900.

To adopt a pet, you must be at least 18, possess a valid driver’s license and pay a flat fee that covers spaying or neutering, all vaccinations and a microchip implant. Non-homeowners also need permission from their landlords or the home’s legal owner(s).

Sign up for free disaster preparedness training to be held in SeptemberIf a natural disaster or fire should strike your home or neighborhood, would you know what to do?

Learn how to take care of your home, family and much more with a free course, the O’Fallon Police Department’s Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training, which will be held September 21 – 23. The hands-on training, which is also available for community groups, takes place on Friday 6 – 10 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Topics include:

• Disaster preparedness

• Fire safety

• Disaster medical operations; assessing and treating injuries

• Light search and rescue

• Team organization

• Disaster psychology

• Terrorism and CERT

• Final exercise

For additional information, visit www.ofallon.mo.us/PD/CERT . To register, contact Police Officer Andrew Stowers at 636-379-5686, or [email protected] .

O'Fallon Police Department Briefs

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Fourth of July and Labor Day trash collection moves to next-day service O’Fallon’s trash and recycling collection will move to next-day service for the remainder of the Fourth of July and Labor Day holiday week. Service for Wednesday, July 4, will move to Thursday, and so on through the week. Service for Monday, September 3 (Labor Day) will move to Tuesday, and so on.

Bring large items to the Bulk Item Drop-Off in August, freeO’Fallon residents are invited to bring acceptable items that are too large to fit into trash containers to the City’s waste transfer station at 1572 Progress West Lane between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, August 18 and 19. The service is free to O’Fallon residents with a valid photo ID and who are current on their trash/recycling bill.

Please note that some items cannot be accepted by law, such as yard waste. Before bringing items to the drop off, please check www.ofallon.mo.us/ES for a list of acceptable and unacceptable goods.

Residents also can choose to have many large items picked up at the curb year-round by calling Environmental Services at 636-272-0477, or contacting staff by email at [email protected]. Cost of the service is $20 per truck load for curbside collection.

St. Charles County offers hazardous household waste disposal optionsDid you know that St. Charles County residents, including O’Fallon residents, have additional options for disposal of unwanted items? The list includes fluorescent light tubes (unbroken), electronics, expanded Styrofoam packaging (“peanuts”), household hazardous waste, and automotive waste. Please visit the County’s website at www.scchealth.org/docs/es for hours, dates, maps, and a comprehensive list of accepted items that can be brought to the County’s recycling facilities.

• Recycle Works West 2110 East Pitman Avenue, Wentzville, MO 63385

• Recycle Works Central 60 Triad South Drive, St. Charles, MO 63304

Or, call 636-949-7415 weekdays.

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Roscoe’s Den

www.ofallon.mo.usSummer 2012

Tree limb disposal for residentsIf a summer storm causes branches to break off in your yard, O’Fallon residents have several options to help dispose of debris.

Residents enrolled in O’Fallon’s yard waste program can bundle up the branches and leave them at the curb on their regularly-scheduled yard waste collection day.

Residents who are not enrolled in the program can schedule a one-time pickup by calling Customer Service at 636-272-0477. One-time pickups cost $2 per bundle with a minimum of $20 for collection. The service is available for any type of yard waste.

Also, residents not currently enrolled can sign up for yard waste collection at any time by contacting Customer Service.

To make it easy for staff to handle the branches:

• Limbs cannot be any larger than 6 inches in diameter

• Limbs must be cut down to 4 feet or less in length

• Branches must be tied in bundles with twine (no wire, please!)

• The bundles must not be larger than 2 feet in diameter.

Finally, residents can call Hansen’s Tree Service at 636-379-1830 to schedule a drop off for their yard waste. Currently, Hansen’s charges 50 cents per bag or bundle or $8 per cubic yard of yard waste.

www.ofallon.mo.us/Green

Roscoe’s Tip: Recycling saves you money. Whenever you and your family recycle cans, bottles, paper and boxes, you save our City money and keep your trash bills low.

Trash and Recycling Announcements

O’Fallon UpdateCity of O’Fallon Newsletter10

Senior Corner Prescription Drug “Take-Back” ProgramDoes your medicine cabinet contain expired or unwanted

medications? If so, please take the time to drop the medicines

off at O’Fallon’s prescription drug “take-back” drop box in

the Police Department lobby between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

Monday through Friday. The Police Department will see they

are promptly and properly destroyed. This helps protect the

environment by keeping the drugs out of landfills or from

being flushed into the water system. It also keeps the drugs out

of the hands of others, including children.

O’Fallon’s drop box helps residents dispose of unwanted

medications responsibly and conveniently, at no charge and

with no questions asked. For safety reasons, please do not use

the drop box to discard sharp objects such as needles, or bio-

hazardous materials.

Patriotic party at the Senior CenterWith the Fourth of July coming up, the O’Fallon Senior Center

is having a patriotic party from 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. on Friday,

June 29. Doors open at 9 a.m. The party features games and

activities, with music by John Scott playing all your favorite

country and western tunes from the 1940s – 1980s. The party is

free to residents ages 60 and older.

Call 636-272-4180 to make reservations to stay for an all-

American barbecue lunch. The suggested donation for lunch

is $3.25.

4th Annual St. Charles County Senior FairSaturday, October 69 a.m. – noon, O’Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall)

Mark your calendars for a great free event for seniors! Seniors

and family members are invited to hear speakers on Medicare

benefits, veterans’ benefits, services provided by the Mid-

East Area Agency on Aging and other helpful topics. The fair

includes games, raffles and snacks, health screenings, fitness

programs, and flu and pneumonia shots. The fair is co-hosted

by the City of O’Fallon and the City of St. Peters.

Project O’FallonAnnual Slab Repair and Asphalt Overlay Program underwayKeep an eye out in O’Fallon subdivisions for City crews and local contractors making repairs to local streets. Through the City of O’Fallon’s asphalt overlay and concrete slab repair programs, crews will repair more than 60,000 square yards of O’Fallon roads.

For more details on where crews will be each week, check out the O’Fallon Project Management Website at www.ofallon.mo.us/projects .

New bike lanes to form 10-mile bike routeCrews are adding nearly 10 miles of on-street bicycle lanes to four of O’Fallon’s busiest streets this summer. The Southside Bicycle Loop will allow for safe and easy access to many of O’Fallon’s largest neighborhoods and employers, so residents can safely ride their bikes to work or the store.

The Southside Loop will start at Highway K and the 364 Outer Road, extend south along Highway K to Technology Drive, proceed west to WingHaven, head north to the 364 Outer Road and turn east back to Highway K. When completed, the Loop will cover approximately 10 miles.

Pearl Drive water main extension completeCrews have completed a new water main extension in the northeast quadrant of the City. The new water line added more than 3,000 feet of water main, which will virtually eliminate shut downs of the water supply in this area. Prior to the construction of this line, occasional water main breaks along the area’s older mains would cause the water in the vicinity to be shut down for short periods of time, inconveniencing local residents and businesses.

Communications Director • Tom Drabelle • [email protected] Writer • Peggy Whetzel • [email protected] and Design Administrator • Bryan Wieczorek • [email protected]

Have a concern or question for the City? Visit the Citizens First Center at www.

ofallon.mo.us/CFC or call 636-379-5553.

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364 Outer Road

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Southside Bicycle Loop

Technology Dr.

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F or 25 years, the O’Fallon Community Concert

Band has filled the air in City parks with melodies

by famous composers, including John Philip Sousa’s

marches, Benny Goodman’s jazz and swing, and John

Williams’ overtures for the Star Wars, Indiana Jones

and Harry Potter films.

The community band got its start in 1988 under

two directors, Gary Brandes and Rob Duss. In 1996,

they handed the conductor’s baton to Gene Garza, a

veteran who served with the 33rd U.S. Army Band in

Europe. Garza started the O’Fallon Jazz Band and also

plays in several other area bands and orchestras.

Under Garza’s leadership, O’Fallon’s Community

Concert Band attracts 40 – 55 members who rehearse

weekly from spring to fall, give free concerts in Civic

Park, and perform patriotic selections in the Heritage

& Freedom Fest Parade and at O’Fallon Veterans

Memorial Walk ceremonies.

What keeps the band going?

“I love to play, and we have lots of fun,” says

Stephanie Frosch of O’Fallon. From grade school on,

she’s performed in various bands and orchestras.

She plays flute for the O’Fallon concert band and her

church band, and gives private lessons. “I’ve made

some good friends in the band, and it’s a relaxed

atmosphere. Gene picks some interesting and usually

fun music. Every year we do some sort of theme music

from movies or a musical, and Gene will dress up for

it.” She recalls Garza conducting the band dressed as

Indiana Jones. Last year, he donned pirate headgear in

honor of Pirates of the Caribbean.

Band members say they particularly enjoy

performing a range of musical genres.

“Gene does a good job of selecting a variety of

music, everything from swing to classical to show

tunes,” said Kevin Mullins, also an O’Fallon resident.

“It’s challenging and fun to play.” Mullins began

piano and trombone lessons in grade school, played

throughout high school and studied music in college.

Currently, he plays trombone with the O’Fallon

concert band, plus several other community bands

and the St. Charles County Symphony Orchestra.

One of the band’s signature arrangements is

“Instant Concert,” billed as 34 songs played in three

minutes and 10 seconds. “I sometimes catch myself

whistling the tunes, especially over the winter when we

are on break and I’m itching to play,” said Frosch.

For a performance schedule and more information

about O’Fallon’s Community Concert Band, visit www.

ofallon.mo.us/ParksandRec/bands .

11Communications Director • Tom Drabelle • [email protected] Writer • Peggy Whetzel • [email protected] and Design Administrator • Bryan Wieczorek • [email protected]

Focus on O'Fallon • O'Fallon Update Special Feature

O’Fallon’s Community Concert Band celebrates 25 years of music and fun By Peggy Whetzel, Staff Writer

Visit the City of O’Fallon’s website, www.ofallon.mo.us, for the latest news and meeting agendas. Most meetings are broadcast live and on demand at www.ofallon.mo.us/OFallonTV .

20 Blank Canvas Exhibit Cultural Arts Gallery in the RSC, through Aug. 31

24 Jammin’ concert with Seven Bridges Road, 6:30 – 9 p.m.

25 Municipal Court, 9 a.m.

O’Fallon Convention & Visitors Bureau, 5 p.m.

26 City Council, 7:30 p.m., workshop, 5:30 p.m.

28 Bluegrass concert and Ice Cream Social, 5 – 7 p.m. Historic Heald Home, free

30 Municipal Court, 6 p.m.

31 O’Fallon Jazz & Community Concert bands, 6:30 – 9 p.m. Civic Park bandstand, free

August1-31 Exhibit: “Blank Canvas,” mixed media Cultural Arts Gallery in the RSC

1 Advisory Green Council, 5 p.m.

2 Planning and Zoning Commission, 7 p.m.

4 Wine and Cheese Tasting 2 – 4 p.m. Historic Heald Home, $10 per person

7 Jammin’ concert with Ticket to The Beatles, 6:30 – 9 p.m.


Board of Adjustment, 5:30 p.m.


12 Auditions for Steel Magnolias, noon, City Hall


14 Parks Board, 7 p.m.

Jammin’ concert with Stray Bullet, 6:30 – 9 p.m.

15 Senior Advisory Committee, 2:30 p.m.

Public Works Commission, 7 p.m.

17 Veterans Commission, 7 p.m.

18 Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council, 5:30 p.m.

18-19 Free Bulk Waste Drop off, 7 a.m. – 3 p.m. O’Fallon waste transfer station, 1572 Progress West Ln.

19 Alligator’s Creek Triathlon, 7 a.m. – 1 p.m., Civic Park

21 Jammin’ concert with Vote for Pedro, 6:30 – 9 p.m.




September3 Labor Day, City Hall, RSC CLOSED


June14 City Council, 7:30 p.m., workshop, 5:30 p.m.

18 Veterans Commission, 7 p.m.


Jammin’ concert with The Others, 6:30 – 9 p.m.


Senior Advisory Committee, 2:30 p.m.

Public Works Commission, 7 p.m.

23-24 Family Camping Night, 6 p.m. – 10 a.m. Fort Zumwalt Park


26 O’Fallon Jazz & Community Concert bands, 6:30 – 9 p.m. Civic Park bandstand, free


July2 Family Night, Heritage & Freedom Fest, 5 – 10 p.m. Ozzie Smith Sports Complex, free

3 Heritage & Freedom Fest, 5 – 11 p.m. Ozzie Smith Sports Complex, free

4 Heritage & Freedom Fest Parade, 9:30 a.m. Main Street to Tom Ginnever and T.R. Hughes Blvd.

Heritage & Freedom Fest, noon – 10 p.m. Ozzie Smith Sports Complex, free

City Hall and Renaud Spirit Center CLOSED (holiday)

Alligator’s Creek OPEN noon – 5 p.m.

5 Planning and Zoning Commission, 7 p.m.

8 3rd annual Cardboard Boat Race, 4 – 6 p.m. Alligator’s Creek Aquatic Center

10 Parks Board, 7 p.m.

Jammin’ concert with Well Hungarians, 6:30 – 9 p.m.


Board of Adjustment, 5:30 p.m.


13 Heroes of Summer Volunteer Donor Blood Drive, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., City Hall


Veterans Commission, 7 p.m.


Jammin’ with Laytham & Holmes Duo, 6:30 – 9 p.m.

18 Senior Advisory Committee, 2:30 p.m.

18 Public Works Commission, 7 p.m.

12

Calendar All public meetings and Municipal Court proceedings are held at O’Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall), 100 North Main Street, unless otherwise noted.

www.ofallon.mo.us/Events

Documents

O'Fallon Update newsletter - Summer 2012