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March 25, 2020

Coronavirus impact hits St. Charles County

Around Town

Community Living, Inc. celebrates 20th annual Legacy Ball. Pg.4

School Holt junior to study in Austria on Rotary Youth Exchange Program scholarship. Pg.6 Wentzville student earns perfect score on ACT. Pg. 7

Features

Photo by Brett Auten Residents throughout St. Charles County are looking at empty shelves, like this one in a St. Peters’ Schnucks, for select items, mostly cleaning products like sanitizer and tissue paper. The coronavirus (COVID-19) has put a stranglehold on St. Charles County as residents and businesses look at an imminent shut down for some weeks.

Global pandemic hits home as local leaders encourage social distancing and local businesses face closure By Brett Auten It is at the forefront of everyone’s mind and it is impacting all walks of life. The coronavirus (COVID-19), the pandemic that is infecting and killing individuals around the world at an astonishing rate, has everyone reexamining all aspects of life. In St. Charles County, what were bustling streets and crowded parking lots are now hushed as government officials everywhere are pleading to all citizens to stay inside when possible. “It is like humanity has come to a standstill,” Dustin English, a St. Charles County native and business owner, said. Over the weekend in St. Louis City and

County officials reported that they will be forcing “non-essential” businesses to close. As of Monday morning, St. Charles County Executive Steve Ehlmann wasn’t willing to go that far. “I do not believe we are in a situation where government should be deciding which businesses must close and which may stay open,” Ehlmann, on the county’s website, said. “We will continue to educate our residents that they should stay home except to go to work and procure the services they feel are essential. If businesses and residents work together to do what is right at this critical time, we will be doing everything we need to do right now to slow the spread of this disease.” As of Saturday, a third positive COVID-19

case was reported in St. Charles County. The resident is a male in his 20s who traveled to Spain and he has been quarantined since his return. Public Health epidemiologists have begun contact investigations and notifications regarding this case. “I cannot express strongly enough how important social distancing is,” St. Charles County Director of Public Health Demetrius Cianci-Chapman, said “This case demonstrates how just a brief encounter with someone can cause the spread of this disease. It is imperative that every single person takes this seriously. Adhering to precautions set by the CDC and state and local health departments regarding hand washing and social distancing is crucial.” See ’CORONAVIRUS’ page 2

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Around Town

March 25, 2020 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

‘CORONAVIRUS’ from cover English is the owner of Field Box St. Charles and Field Box St. Peters (two popular sports bars) and co-owner of Chicken’s Place, an up-and-coming restaurant located in Old Town. Ehlmann signed an Executive Order that went into effect last Friday that prohibits all restaurants and bars in the county from providing on-premises consumption of food or beverages effective at 12:01 a.m., Friday, March 20. “Each business and business owner’s situation is different, but for some, they will be freaking out week one, day one,” English said. “I mean, I have a couple of thousand beers that have a shelf life. Same with food. It’s frustrating because we don’t know how long it will be. We have no timeframe. And as far as our employees, are they going to be here when we get back?” English encourages everyone to dine, when they can, either curbside or delivery from your local establishments to help keep some sort of semblance afloat. Cianci-Chapman also said that St. Charles County Public Health and hospital official’s

stress that residents should not panic and not go to hospital emergency rooms. If you have symptoms, you should either call the county’s hotline number or call your health care provider. A screening call is necessary to start the testing process. Residents who show symptoms or have questions should

call the St. Charles County Department of Public Health COVID-19 Information Hotline at 636-949-1899, which operates daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. For more information and precautions for COVID-19, as well as updates, when available, visit sccmo.org/ COVID.

Missouri State, St. Charles Community College enter partnership Missouri State University (MSU) and St. Charles Community College (SCC) are partnering to create a joint Bachelor of Applied Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant. The schools signed a Memorandum of Understanding in Jefferson City on March 4. The non-binding agreement signals the intent of the institutions to work toward creating this degree. “Missouri State University is excited to partner with St. Charles Community College,” said Missouri State President Clif Smart. “Demand for healthcare workers exceeds the numbers of students colleges can graduate. This will help meet the need for occupational therapy assistants in the St. Louis area.” The program will be accredited through St. Charles Community College and admission and financial aid with also run through the college. “This is an historic moment for higher education in Missouri as a community college and four-year university work togeth-

er to solve critical issues of employment and health care within our communities. SCC is proud to partner with Missouri State University to jointly confer a Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Occupational Therapy Assistant,” said Dr. Barbara Kavalier, president of St. Charles Community College. “The graduates of this new degree will support the many health care providers that are experiencing an increase in patients with complex health needs.” Most classes will occur at St. Charles Community College. SCC will work to obtain approval from the Missouri Department of Higher Education and the Higher Learning Commission for expansion of their mission. Missouri State will be delivering its part of the curriculum in person at SCC or online. Diplomas will be from both schools.

Get your event or good news published in Community News: email your information in calendar and article formats to editor@mycnews. com.

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • March 25, 2020

Around Town

New Cliff View Branch library in planning stages

Submitted photo This artistic rendering shows the completed Cliff View Branch library.

The St. Charles City-County Library has purchased property in the western area of St. Charles County and has plans to open a new library branch. The Cliff View Branch, 10 Cliff View Drive in Wentzville Bluffs at I-70 and Hwy Z (formerly Six North Cafe), will provide a modern, light-filled space with drive-through services and outdoor spaces that are currently unavailable in any of the library’s western locations. Preliminary designs for Cliff View include features that will maximize space, usability and convenience for customers. At 3,300 square feet, the space will be flexible and adaptive with movable shelving units, a multipurpose room featuring sliding glass walls, and portable computing stations that give customers the opportunity to work anywhere in the library. Classes and events for all ages will be offered in the branch. In addition, the space will have a focus on self-service,

with after-hours lending, returns, and public computing available. It will house a collection of approximately 6,600 items. Library Director and Chief Executive Officer Jason Kuhl explains, “It is no secret that the western part of St. Charles County is among the fastest-growing areas in the state. The new Cliff View Branch is being developed with an eye toward creating a comfortable, flexible, family-friendly space that reflects what we’ve heard from our customers about what they want from library facilities. We are excited about this next step in the growth of the St. Charles City-County Library.” Renovation of the building is expected to begin in July of 2020, with architecture services provided by Product Architecture + Design and construction oversight by Landmark Contract Management. The Cliff View Branch is slated to open in the spring of 2021.

Driving lanes to be affected by City Centre entrance roadwork at St. Peters City Hall Drivers can expect daytime lane closures on Mexico Road at St. Peters Centre Boulevard in the coming weeks, as well as narrowed entry and exit lanes at the City Centre entrance in front of St. Peters City Hall. The roadwork at this intersection is part of the ongoing City Centre entrance improvement project. Concrete will be replaced on portions of the roadway into City Centre at St. Peters Centre Blvd. Weather permitting, crews will be-

gin placing concrete next week. Concrete will be placed in sections to allow for traffic to continue to enter and exit City Centre at Mexico, but the lanes will be narrower than usual. Please slow down and use caution when driving through the project area. Check the city of St. Peters website at www.stpetersmo.net for the latest news about St. Peters streets projects.

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NEXT EVENT: April 15 $ 8 per event FUTURE EVENTS: May 20 & June 17

National Council for Home Safety rates O’Fallon as Missouri’s safest large city and No. 8 overall The newest report from the National Council for Home Safety and Security again found that O’Fallon is one of the safest cities in Missouri. The National Council for Home Safety and Security named O’Fallon as the eighth safest city in the state in a report, “The Safest Cities in Missouri 2020.” With a population of more than 89,000 residents, O’Fallon was the only Missouri City with a population over 50,000 residents to be rated in the top 20. O’Fallon recorded 145 violent crimes and 952 property crimes. “We are honored to again be ranked as the

Come see why we have become St. Charles #1 Senior Group Destination!

safest large city in Missouri,” said O’Fallon Mayor Bill Hennessy. “This ranking is a testament to our residents and businesses who look out for their community and work to keep their neighborhoods safe. And, it’s further evidence of the tremendous work being done by our O’Fallon Police Department. These men and women dedicate every day of their lives to keeping us safe and secure.” The report was listed at www.alarms.org/safest-cities-in-missouri.

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Around Town

March 25, 2020 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

Community Living, Inc. celebrates 20th annual Legacy Ball Barb Griffith, president and CEO of Community Living, Inc., presents the 2020 Community Volunteer of the Year Award to Mike Elam, council member for District 3 in St. Charles County, during the 20th annual Legacy Ball held on Feb. 29. The Legacy Ball supports Community Living’s work to enrich the lives of individuals with disabilities living in the greater St. Charles County community. Submitted photo

Inspiration Corner: There are so many things to be afraid of in life. Fear of the unknown. Fear of illness. Fear of rodents of unusual sizes. Fear reminds us we are human. We temper our fear with faith. We buy the new car because it is more reliable. We buy insurance in case our health fails. We invest in mole traps and listen eagerly for the “thwunk” that indicates the lawn wreckers have most likely expired. Because we believe in a final solution. A new engine means reliable transportation. Health insurance guarantees the insurance company won’t bankrupt us. And everyone knows rodents serve no purpose other than as food for snakes. The headline was startling. “Bungee Cord Breaks!” An adventurous Polish man was dropped from a crane while wearing a bungee cord harness. When they dropped him, the cord snapped, and his body was hurled into the safety cushion below. Unfortunately, his trust in the stretchy gizmo was misplaced. Even though he lived to tell the tale, he sustained a severe spinal cord injury and certainly months – if not years – of physical therapy. He learned an important lesson: gravity is not our friend. Neither are sketchy carnies who make a living selling rides on dubious devices. My social media feed is filled with “brave” friends who take risks for fun. Skiing. Mountain climbing. Eating at White Castle. I suppose their faith is stronger than mine. I readily assume if I risk my life I will die. Because the reality remains that all human beings die. Some of us ignore it. Others plan for it. And a quiet minority get a boob job and call it a day. Our insecurities surrounding death manifest in subtle and strange ways.

www.stpetersmo.net/rec-plex

Fear and faith So, where do you place your faith? And are you certain you have the right strategy? Is your life insurance premium paid for? Is your will clear and concise? Will your body be put in a cryogenic tank in the hopes that one day you will be resurrected? And you thought this was going to be a light and fluffy column. Bwa ha ha! But seriously, folks, where do you place your faith? I have so much respect for my friends who believe differently than I do, but I often wonder if atheists worry about the future. If all we have is today, are we confident the lights just go out? And if that’s the case, life seems rather meaningless. If there is no final consequence for what we do right or wrong in this life, what’s the point of doing anything good? Shouldn’t we all run around pleasing ourselves to the best of our abilities? But what if it does matter? What if the choices we make in this life do affect the next? And what if the choice we make determines an eternal consequence that is not entirely pleasant? I guess we better make darn sure our “bungee cord” is strong before we take the (final) leap. For more inspiration, follow me on my blog: www.destinationdiscipline.com.

Margaret Wolfinbarger is a wife and mother of three peculiar children. She lives in St. Charles and likes to shine light into dark places.

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • March 25, 2020

Around Town

School

March 25, 2020 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

WSD high school students excel at regional science and engineering fair Students from the Wentzville School District competed in the High School Honors Division of Missouri’s Tri-County Regional Science and Engineering Fair held at Holt High School on Feb. 29. Holt junior Ethan Dunsworth received first place for his project “Exploring the Mechanisms of Major Depression and Antidepressant Response Using Gene and miRNA Expression” and will advance to the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Anaheim, California, May 10-15. Dunsworth was also awarded the Air Force Research Award and Navy Research Award for his project. Holt senior Amaya Kopp won second place for her project “The effects of active experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis on wild type versus transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 knockout murine central nervous systems” and earned the Air Force Research Award and Navy Research Award for her project. Holt senior Gracyn Pietrusinski

won third place for her project “Characterization of H1N1 Influenza Virus Anti-Neuraminidase Specific Monoclonal Antibodies” and earned the Air Force Research Award and Navy Research Award for her project. Additionally, Holt senior Devanshi Patel won fourth place for her project “Iron catalysis in propargylic substitution reactions: solvent dependency of catalytic efficiency and catalyst decomposition studies” and will advance to the Genius Olympiad in Rochester, New York, June 15-19. Patel was also awarded the Air Force Research Award and Navy Research Award. Holt senior Cora Sverdrup earned the American Psychological Association Award for her project “The effect of perception of musical stimuli in major and minor keys on the facilitation of artistic creative performance.” Holt junior Jacob Kampelman received the American Society of Materials Science Award for his project “Effect of Print Temperature on Shear Strength.”

Photo courtesy Wentzville School District Holt junior Ethan Dunsworth received first place for his project “Exploring the Mechanisms of Major Depression and Antidepressant Response Using Gene and miRNA Expression” and will advance to the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Anaheim, California, May 10-15.

Timberland senior Jenna Davis received the Society of In Vitro Biology Award for her project “Determining the Effect of Caffeine Concentrations on the Heart Rate of Daphnia Magna.”

Holt junior to study in Austria on Rotary Youth Exchange Program scholarship Holt High School junior Makenna Seghers has been awarded a scholarship through the Rotary Youth Exchange Program to study in Austria. Seghers will spend an entire academic year in the country, representing her school and the United States as she learns more about the Austrian culture, traditions and language. Seghers has a firm grasp of languages; she began taking German this year and is currently enrolled in Spanish III. “I am truly grateful to have been able to receive this opportunity to go to Austria through the Rotary Club. There are so many things I hope to learn while in Austria,” shared Seghers. “I’d say I am most excited to really get to immerse myself in a new culture, a new language, and new people. I am looking forward to becoming more knowledgeable about the world as a whole, and become a more critical thinker and be able to apply my new found skills and knowledge into my community back home once I return.” “I love watching my students challenge themselves and push outside their comfort zones,” shared German teacher Sunny Ray Serna, who was an exchange student in her senior year, as well, and knows firsthand what an important opportunity this is for Seghers. “Committing to living abroad for an academic school year is a lot to take on, but I know Makenna has the drive and spirit to make the best out of this amazing oppor-

Photo courtesy Wentzville School District Holt High School junior Makenna Seghers (left) stands with her German teacher Sunny Ray Serna.

tunity the Rotary Club has to offer.” The Rotary Youth Exchange program began in the late 1920s, and now over 8,500 students participate every year from over 70 countries. Seghers’ scholarship is estimated to have a value of $20,000, including room and board, and tuition to a local high school in the host country.

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • March 25, 2020

Wentzville student earns perfect score on ACT Holt High School junior Heath Bana has earned the highest possible ACT composite score of 36. Nationally, while the actual number of students earning the top score varies from year to year, on average, only around one-half of one percent of students who take the ACT earn a 36. Among test takers in the U.S. high school graduating class of 2019, only 4,879 of nearly 1.8 million students earned an ACT composite score of 36. Bana has a 4.54 GPA, is ranked first in his class, and is enrolled in six Advanced Placement (AP) courses this year. He is a member of National Honor Society, German National Honor Society, is a three-year member of Holt’s Scholar Bowl team and two-year member of Holt’s World Quest team. Bana attend-

ed Missouri Scholars Academy last year. He has been active in Boy Scouts for seven years, and currently serves as an assistant senior patrol leader. “I’m honored to be recognized by the Wentzville School District and thankful that it provided me with the tools I needed for success,” shared Bana. The ACT consists of tests in English, mathematics, reading and science. Each test is scored on a scale of 1-36, and a student’s composite score is the average of the four test scores. The score for ACT’s optional writing test is reported separately and is not included within the ACT composite score. In a letter from ACT Chief Executive Officer Marten Roorda recognizing this exceptional achievement, Roorda stated,

Photo courtesy Wentzville School District Holt High School junior Heath Bana has earned the highest possible ACT composite score of 36.

“Your achievement on the ACT is significant and rare. Your exceptional scores will provide any college or university with ample evidence of your readiness for the academic rigors that lie ahead.”

Holt Wrestler wins back-to-back state titles

Photo courtesy Wentzville School District Holt High School sophomore Esther Han was crowned State Champion in her weight class (142) at the Missouri State High School Activities Association Girls Wrestling Championship at the University of Missouri-Columbia Feb. 20-22.

Holt High School sophomore Esther Han was crowned State Champion in her weight class (142) at the Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) Girls Wrestling Championship at the University of Missouri-Columbia Feb. 20-22. This is Han’s second consecutive championship; last year, as a freshman, she was crowned the state champion at 136 at the inaugural MSHSAA Girls State Wrestling Championship. Han won by technical fall at state over Brianna Cowherd from West Plains in the first round, and went on to beat Meriad Jorgenson from William Chrisman by fall in the quarterfinals. She defeated Rachel Rellihan from Fort Osage by fall in the semifinal round, and won by fall over Josie Wright of Lathrop in the championship round. “Esther trained hard this offseason and during the year and it has paid off,” said Holt Wrestling Coach Andrew Hammond. “She strives to be the best wrestler and teammate she can be while continuing to grow the sport of women’s wrestling.” Han’s state championship caps off her sophomore season at 31-1 with 27 pins, one technical fall and three major decisions. Han wrestled in middle school, where she lived in Illinois before moving to the WSD, and has a background in competitive judo, which she attributes in part to her success as a wrestler

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School

What’s Happening

March 25, 2020 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

Send your event to editor@mycnews.com and we'll print it!

Take Notice . . . The events listed in this section are the latest updates as of press time, please check with individual sites for the most up to date cancellations and reschedule info. EVENTS March 26: Dinner theatre (Postponed)

A one-of-a-kind dinner theatre experience will take place as the Crusader Players present “Guys and Dolls.” Dinner is at 5:30 p.m. in the Fallon Family Center, followed by curtain at 7 p.m. in the Amy Dickherber Performing Arts Center. Reservations required. Proceeds benefit St. Dominic’s performing arts programs. Register online at www.stdominichs.org/dinnertheatre.

March 29: Breakfast and blood drive

The Knights of Columbus at St. Robert Bellarmine Church at 1424 First Capitol Drive South in St. Charles will hold an all-you-can-eat breakfast from 8 to 11:30 a.m. Breakfast includes: made to order omelets, pancakes, sausages, scrambled eggs, biscuits and gravy, juice, milk and coffee. Cost for adults is $8, for children six to 11 is $4 and children five and under are free. In addition a blood drive will be held at the same time as the breakfast. Those who donate blood that day will receive a free breakfast. For additional information please call 636-946-6799.

April 3: Art exhibition

St. Charles Community College will host the MFA Invitational Art Exhibit, featuring art created by Masters of

Fine Arts students from Washington University, Southern Illinois, Fontbonne University, University of Missouri and Missouri State University. A variety of media and styles will be represented. The exhibit will run through April 3 in the Donald D. Shook Fine Arts Building gallery. Gallery hours are 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday. A free reception is open to the public and will take place from 6-8 p.m. March 25. For more information contact Brian D. Smith at 636-9228575 or bsmith@stchas.edu.

April 3: Open house

Duchesne High School will welcome seventh grade students to its campus for the fourth annual Pioneer for a Day. Students will have the opportunity to experience life at DHS and see what makes being a Pioneer so special. This free, fun-filled day with exciting activities takes place from 8 a.m. to 2:30p.m. Seventh graders will be paired up with Student Ambassadors and enjoy STEM activities, athletics, music, prayer, experiments and more.

April 3-5: Theater production

The Howell Limelight Theatre musical production of “Bye Bye Birdie” will be performed April 3-5 in the Howell Theatre. The Friday and Saturday performances are at 7 p.m. with the Sunday performance at 2 p.m. Doors open 30 minutes prior to showtime.

Questions regarding the upcoming performances can be directed to Jessica Brunts, Drama Director, at Jessica. Brunts@fhsdschools.org.

April 4: Trivia night

The Collector Car Trivia Night, hosted by the Archway Oldsmobile Club, will be held at the American Legion 312 at 2500 Raymond Drive in St. Charles. Trivia begins at 7 p.m. and ends at 11 p.m. Price is $160 per table of eight or $20 per person. Benefiting the St. Louis Honor Flight Program and Animal Welfare, the evening is packed with old car trivia and other facts, plus 50/50 raffle, silent auction, and door prizes, and a prize for the winning team. For more information or to reserve your table, please call 314-8252980, or email olsonrsa@gmail.com. Make checks payable to the Archway Olds Club, 350 Ashfari Drive, Florissant, MO 63034.

April 16: Gala fundraiser

Boone Center, Inc. (BCI) will hold its 13th Annual Behind the Mask Gala at 6 p.m. The event will be held at Bogey Hills Country Club located at 1120 Country Club Rd. in St. Charles. The black tie optional evening includes a cocktail reception, silent auction, dinner, and live music by Vote for Pedro. Proceeds will benefit the non-profits’ employment facilities and programs for adults with disabilities. Tickets are $150 per person and $1,400 for a table of 10. To purchase tickets, visit https://one.bidpal.net/bcigala2020/ welcome.

The Knights of Columbus, Cottleville will take place at 5701 Highway N in St. Charles. The doors will open at 2 p.m. and the dice will roll at 3 p.m. $20 per person includes appetizers, snacks, desserts, soda and tea. Plus two complimentary adult drink tickets. There will also be attendance prizes, basket raffles and 50/50. To reserve your seat or for additional information please email ladiesauxbunco@gmail.com.

April 20-22: Used book sale

The St. Charles Community College library will host the 27th Annual SCC Library Book Sale from 7:30 a.m.-9 p.m. April 20-22. The sale will be held in the Paul and Helen Schnare Library, located in the Learning Resource Center on the SCC campus, at 4601 Mid Rivers Mall Drive in Cottleville. Both fiction and non-fiction materials will be available for purchase. Books will be sold for $1 for paperbacks and $2 for hardbacks. The library is still accepting donations of used books. Proceeds from the sale will be used to purchase new materials for the SCC library. For more information, contact Theresa Flett at 636-922-8620 or tflett@stchas.edu.

SUDOKU answers from page F-1

ONGOING EVENTS Mondays: Optimist Club meetings

The Wentzville/Lake St. Louis Optimist Club meets on the second and fourth Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Wentzville IHOP, 10 Layla Lane, Wentzville, MO.. For more information contact Ed Jurotich at 314560-1868.

Mondays: Take off Pounds Sensibly

Take off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS) meets every Monday from 9:30 - 10:30 a.m. Weigh-ins begin at 8:30 a.m. We meet at Memorial Hall in Blanchette Park at 1900 Randolph St. in St. Charles. For more information contact Joyce at 636-206-5306.

Mondays: Take off Pounds Sensibly

TOPS meet every Monday at Holy Cross Lutheran Church at 8945 Veterans Memorial Hwy in O’Fallon. Meetings at 9:30 a.m. with weigh in beginning at 8:30 a.m. For more information please call Linda Wilcox at 636-447-9056.

CROSSWORD answers from page F-4

April 19: Bunco Bonanza Fundraiser Bunco Bonanza Fundraiser for Rural Parish Workers of Christ the King, sponsored by the Ladies Auxiliary of

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www.mycnews.com • Community News • March 25, 2020

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Sports

March 25, 2020 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

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Sports you see with Gary B... Lindenwood football player playing in the NFL reaches out to locals Pierre Desir recently signed to play cornerback for the New York Jets. In a recent act of kindness because of the world’s challenges, he donated 20,000 meals to the St. Louis Food bank. Desir was born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti and immigrated along with his family to the United States at the age of four. He attended Francis Howell Central High School in Cottleville, where he was an all-state selection at defensive back. He was first-team allleague during his junior and senior seasons and was named special teams player of the year as a senior. Desir averaged 37.8 yards per kickoff return and 8.9 yards per punt return along with being a record-breaking track runner as well. His college days saw him play college football at Lindenwood University and Washburn out of Topeka, Kansas. While with the Ichabods of Washburn for his first two years, he earned a spot on the first team all-MIAA (Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics) and his second year was earned a spot on the second team MIAA honors as a cornerback. Transferring to Lindenwood to get closer to his children, Desir was again named first-team All-MIAA and was a first-team AFCA Div. II All-American. In his final season at the university, he once again was honored with the same two awards. Desir was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the fourth round of the 2014 National Football League (NFL) Draft. Other teams that he played with were the San Diego Chargers and Indianapolis Colts in his seven years in the league. As mentioned, this past Sunday, the 30-year old signed a one-year contract to play cornerback with the New York Jets worth $5.5 million. *Keep it going

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UMSL’s men’s basketball team the best in program history We will never know how far the 2019-20 University of Missouri-St. Louis men’s basketball team could have gone, but we will always remember what they accomplished. The Tritons were ready to board their bus last Thursday to head to Indianapolis when word came from the NCAA that all championships would be canceled because of the COVID-19 pandemic. And with that news, UMSL’s historic season was cut short and they weren’t able to step foot on the court for their first NCAA Tournament appearance in 32 years. Coming off a 20-9 record a year ago, which marked the program’s first 20-win season since 1990-91, seventh-year head coach Bob Sundvold returned a solid nucleus of five players who were either starters or key reserves. The national pride saw UMSL spend 10 straight weeks in the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) Division II Coaches Top 25 Poll. UMSL earned two major GLVC postseason awards, while two Tritons were named First Team All-GLVC. Overall, they finished with a program-record 27 wins, finishing at 27-6, which including a 16-4 GLVC record, also a program-record for league wins. *Back to the chalk board Gary Baute, a St. Louis native, may be educated in business but he lives and breathes sports. As a fan or an athlete, Gary is all sports all the time. He hosted a radio sports program on KFNS, emceed the River City Rascals’ inaugural season, and co-hosted SportsRadioSTL.com, and is currently hosting a Health show on 97.1 FM, ‘Prime Time Health’ www.PrimeTimeSTL.com It broadcasts Saturday nights at 8 and Sunday mornings at 9.

www.mycnews.com • Community News • March 25, 2020

Recipe:

Make cents of a healthy diet

Feature

F-1

– SUDOKU –

Curry-Spiced Tofu with Asian Vegetables

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

Recipe courtesy of the American Heart Association Servings: 4

One of the great myths of healthy eating is that it’s expensive. Making healthier choices can actually save you money when you know how to shop smart. Ingredients: 12 ounces light, extra-firm tofu, drained and patted dry, cut into four slices 1 tablespoon, plus 1 1/2 teaspoons, curry powder, divided 12 ounces packaged fresh stir-fry vegetables 1 tablespoon water

2 teaspoons canola oil 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil 1 large onion, cut into 3/4- inch wedges 4 large garlic cloves, minced 1/4 cup light coconut milk 1/4-1/2 teaspoon chili Cover loosely to keep warm. garlic sauce In same skillet, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat, swirling Directions: to coat bottom. Cook onion 1 minute, stirring frequently. Put tofu on large plate. Sprinkle tofu on both sides with 1 Stir in vegetables and garlic. Cook 1-2 minutes, or until tablespoon curry powder. vegetables are tender-crisp, stirring constantly. In large microwaveable bowl, microwave vegetables and water on high 2-3 minutes, or until vegetables are almost tendercrisp. Pour off remaining water.

Stir in coconut milk, chili garlic sauce and remaining curry powder. Bring to boil over medium-high heat. Spoon vegetable mixture over tofu.

In large nonstick skillet, heat canola oil over medium-high heat, swirling to coat bottom. Cook tofu in single layer 3-4 minutes on each side, or until browned. Transfer to separate large plate.

Nutrition Information: 151 calories; 6.5 g total fat; 86 mg sodium; 14 g carbohydrates; 4 g fiber; 4 g sugars; 10 g protein.

Find more recipes and tips to make healthy meals more affordable at fyp365.com or heart.org/healthyforlife.

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Coronavirus prompts many theater closings

Movie: By Steve Bryan

Born and raised in South St. Louis, Steve Bryan is now based in Anaheim, California, and has been allowed access to movie and television sets to see actors and directors at work. Though his writing has taken him far from St. Louis, Steve is, at heart, still the same wide-eyed kid who spent countless hours watching classic movies at neighborhood theaters.

Movies have always been a big part of my life. I came of age at a time when St. Louis neighborhood theaters such as the Granada and the Kingsland were common. These were big, beautiful movie house where I saw such diverse films as “Close Encounters of the Third Kind,” “Star Wars” and an animated version of “Charlotte’s Web.” Time and changing demographics led to their demise, however. The lot where the Granada stood now is a parking lot while the Kingsland gave way to an Aldi’s grocery store. Over the last century, movies and movie theaters have been a constant in people’s lives. Even when new technologies like television and online streaming arrived, people still went to the theater. About a year ago, Marvel Studios released “Avengers: Endgame,” a film that packed theaters and set box office records. Disney, which owns Marvel, followed up that success with “Toy Story 4” and the live-action version of “The Lion King.” It was truly a good year for Disney. The emergence of the Coronavirus has had a devastating effect on our work lives and leisure time. Ten days ago, I was watching “Onward,” the new Pixar film, at the Regal Cinema

biopic, but the couple recently announced that they both contracted the Coronavirus. As of this writing, they are still in quarantine and Warner Bros. has suspended production on the film. Even though movie theaters are not open, there are other options to help pass the time while you are social distancing. The streaming service Disney+ arrived last year and offers a free trial for new subscribers. If you are a Verizon subscriber, the company will give you 12 months to try the service for free. Otherwise, it’s $6.99 per month, which is not a Photo courtesy Bigstock bad deal. Disney+ has a good mixlocation near me with a big bucket of popcorn ture of Marvel movies, live action films and and a soda. This week, in accordance with some true classics from the Disney vault. I use a regular antenna on one of my TV sets government guidelines, Regal has shuttered its locations until further notice. AMC also is which allows me to get free, over-the-air digital following suit in some areas. With the closure broadcasts from local TV stations. I’ve done of their theme parks, the Walt Disney Studios this in St. Louis and in Orange County, California and the picture quality is quite good. It’s had a severe reversal of fortune. At the studio level, production on new films an inexpensive alternative if you don’t have a has been halted while release dates on films cable subscription. I’ve also dusted off DVD in the pipeline have been pushed back. As a copies of some of my favorite films to pass the result, “Black Widow,” “A Quiet Place Part II” time. Stay inside, stay healthy and stay safe everyand “Mulan” will arrive in theaters later than expected. Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson trav- one. I hope to see everyone at the movies very eled to Australia to work on an Elvis Presley soon.

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Yeggs

John Hanna

CROSSWORD: MARCH MADNESS

‘Yeggs’ is a comic series about Robert and Bill, two rabbits who have opened their own egg franchise in the Midwest (St. Louis area). We follow their day to day lives, watching as they go about the hectic task of preparing for their one big day every year. Along the way they have adventures filled with fun, comic doings and pathos.

Moore On Life These are tough times. The great toilet paper apocalypse has come to pass. Because of it, people have turned into raging wolves and completely forgetting any common decency. My husband and I turned on the TV to see mass pandemonium. There were long lines with people crying and tears streaming down their faces; crowds were lunging forward, mayhem, screaming, fighting, pushing and shoving. It was an old rerun of the Beatles appearing on the Ed Sullivan show. I guess nothing much has changed when it comes to a hot commodity. We turned the channel to something more calming – the news on the lung-eating virus. It sounded serious. “Wow. I’m going to fill up some emergency water jugs. You go to the store and get some necessities,” my husband said. I drove to the store and saw long lines, pushing, shoving and mayhem. “Hmm,” I thought to myself. “The Beatles must be making a big comeback appearance.” I elbowed my way into the mob and tried to find a shopping cart. Not one in sight. I’d have to make like a chipmunk and shove things into my cheek pouches until I got to the checkout counter. It took me an hour, but I made it out alive. Back home my husband unloaded my sack and held up a bottle. “What the heck’s this?” “Pickled jalapenos.” “What for? Are you constipated?” “Don’t be silly. There wasn’t anything left in the vegetable section except a few of those bottles. We’ll have to make do.” He then pulled out a box of hair dye. “Mind explaining this?” “I believe you did say ‘necessities?’ We may

By Cindy Moore

Mob mentality be in the midst of a zombie apocalypse, but that doesn’t mean I have to look like one.” He continued to rummage through packs of Oreos, cartons of ice cream and numerous packages of kibble and cat treats. “Where’s the toilet paper?” “There wasn’t any.” “You’re kidding! What are we going to do for you know when after we do you know what?” “Not a problem. I’ve got a whole basketful of mismatched socks I’ve been saving since the kids were little. I knew they would come in handy someday.” Cindy Moore is the mother of three superlative kids, servant of two self-indulgent felines and wife to one nifty husband. Her ficticious occupation? Archeological Humorist: someone who unearths absurdity and hilarity in strange and unusual places including public restrooms, the lint filter, and church meetings. Most recently, she excavated a find in her neighbor’s bird feeder. The opinions expressed in this column are Cindy Moore’s alone and do not reflect the opinion of the owners or staff of Community News.

ACROSS 1. Cutlass or Delta 88, for short 5. Passports and driver’s licenses 8. Bit of smoke 12. Narcotics agent, for short 13. Type of coffee maker 14. Sashay 15. Austin Powers’ antagonist 16. Creole cuisine staple 17. Designer Calvin 18. *Last year’s winning coach 20. Red-encased cheese 21. Prepared 22. Drunkard’s sound? 23. Source of white meat 26. They are often grand 30. “Ever” to a poet 31. Mrs. Potts of “Beauty and the Beast” 34. Cough syrup balsam 35. Russians, e.g. 37. A shot could prevent it 38. Up and about 39. Lake ____caca, South America 40. Plant disease 42. *Member of University of Utah team 43. Autumnal zodiac sign

45. Rooster, e.g. 47. Rare find 48. Campus VIPs 50. Razor-____ 52. *Lowest seed 54. In good health 55. 2017 Oscar-winning animated film 56. “____ for thought” 59. Essential oil derived from iris 60. Nasal input 61. Pre-swan state? 62. *NCAA basketball team with most titles 63. *7 seed opponent in round 1 64. Prospector’s mother DOWN 1. *Top seed 2. Abbreviation on a bathroom door 3. Precedes drab 4. Part of an eyeball 5. Vexed 6. Eastwood’s _____ Harry 7. Quarrel 8. *Lowest seeded team to win championship 9. Part of ideal 10. Fit for a skinny one 11. Mightier than sword? 13. Give to St. Vinny’s

14. Yarn store unit 19. Does like Matryoshka 22. *An airball doesn’t do it to either rim or net 23. Outdoes 24. Thing of the past 25. One of the Muses 26. *Final ____ 27. India’s sacred flower 28. *Like last eight 29. More sure 32. Like Bob Ross’ hair 33. Layer 36. *Cavaliers’ state 38. Make amends 40. Slow-witted 41. Demosthenes, e.g. 44. Waits for approval, e.g. 46. Being of service 48. D in LED 49. Former prisoner 50. Rigid necklace 51. Catapult 52. One from Glasgow 53. Canceled 54. Olden-day French coin 57. Goes with borrowed and blue 58. Indigo extract

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