CNSTC: August 5, 2020

August 5, 2020

Schoolyear uncertainty

Around Town

Cottleville firefighters donate $11,500 to the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Pg.3 St. Charles County Executive, mayors, chambers send plea to local businesses: require masks. Pg.3

School Fort Zumwalt board resolution requests federal stimulus for America’s schools. Pg.5

Features

Photo courtesy Francis Howell School District A student from the Kindergarten Success Program at Henderson Elementary shows off her work. School districts around the county have set forth their plans for the upcoming school year with plenty of options for families.

School districts across St. Charles County look to begin classes both online and in person as COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact the region

By Brett Auten The structure is in place but you can’t help but think that it is on shaky ground.

Amidst growing COVID-19 numbers, several St. Louis-area school districts have decided to start the school year with online-only learning with the Clayton, Parkway, Pattonville and Webster Groves districts announced last week to go online only. Also, Springfield Public Schools, the state’s largest school district, will reopen with each student attending classes for two days, and learning virtually otherwise.

As the start of the school year inches forward, St. Charles County area school districts released their plans, all of which featured options aplenty for the upcoming academic year to its anxious parents and students.

All of the school districts are offering fulltime virtual instruction but it will look significantly different than the e-learning that took place to close the spring semester. This option is a comprehensive virtual learning plan whose assessments and grading practices will be consistent with those of the in-person classroom. The time expected for

a student to participate in this option will be similar to a typical, in-person, school day. This option requires students of all grade levels to be online multiple times a day.

St. Charles School District families will have the option to enroll their students in either in-person or virtual learning options.

This choice will apply for the entire semester and families will have the ability to reassess for the second semester. If a family elects to enroll their student in in-person See ‘SCHOOLYEAR’ page 2

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August 5, 2020 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

‘SCHOOLYEAR’ from cover learning option, the district has three stages of in-person learning that could/ will be utilized based upon information/ recommendations from local health and government agencies.

The District Primary Plan is a traditional school schedule with full time in-person learning and appropriate considerations according to risk/spread levels of COVID-19.

The District Alternate Plan A is a hybrid schedule that provides students with two days per-week of in-person instruction and three days per week virtual instruction. The District Alternate Plan B is a full virtual schedule. This option would be utilized if the district was advised by local health agencies that in person instruction was untenable.

“Our number one priority is to keep our students and staff safe while providing the best educational process possible, and we believe offering families this option helps us to do so,” SCSD Superintendent Dr. Jason Sefrit said. “However, the district has alternate plans of a hybrid model or full, virtual learning for all of our students if needed. Plans can change quickly, as the situation related to COVID-19 is very fluid.”

In the Francis Howell School District, families chose between one of two learning plans.

Option 1 includes in-person classroom learning with added precautions and safe-

ty protocols. This option will have a fulltime or hybrid format depending on the state of the COVID-19 pandemic.

For the full-time model, in-person instruction will take place five days a week at the student’s school building. Although this option allows for regular classroom instruction, students and staff members will be required to follow a list of safety precautions, such as mask-wearing and social distancing in classrooms and common spaces.

The hybrid schedule will feature an A/B alternating schedule where only half of enrolled students are in physical classrooms at any given time. Students will attend in-person learning at their school building two or three days a week and engage in virtual learning remotely the other days.

According to the district’s official website, the district may elect to move from full-time classroom learning to a hybrid model, or vice versa, based on the evolving COVID-19 situation, which could happen before school starts on Aug. 24 or anytime during the 2020-2021 academic year.

According to the district, students uncomfortable with a hybrid-style format are encouraged to opt for the 100-percent virtual plan.

“Our top priority as a district is reopening schools as safely as possible,” Jennifer Jolls, Director of Communications and Community Relations for FHSD, said.

“Our Return to School plan offers a fully virtual option for families who may not feel comfortable sending their student(s) back to the classroom, along with an

in-person option that could transition to hybrid or virtual learning as we continue to monitor the COVID situation in our area.”

The Fort Zumwalt School District collaborated with several agencies and polled families before choosing its plan. The district will have two instructional options; Option One includes in-person instruction with modified schedules as needed.

This includes three potential plans labeled Level A, B and C. Level A is full in-person instruction that will take place five days a week. Students will attend in person for the whole day with added safety and health precautions in place. If the district is required to reduce the number of students or in the event of a district-wide closure, all in-person learners will move to Level B, where students will attend two days a week in-person and three days a week virtually or Level C, where students participate in full virtual instruction.

In Wentzville, there will be full virtual learning in which the student must remain there for at least a semester. The in-school options consist of three levels, Level 1 being all grade levels attend in person with health and safety precautions in place.

Level 2 is considered Blended Learning where students attend in-person two days a week and the other three are virtual.

Level Three is all students will attend virtually in case of school or district closure.

The Wentzville School District will determine the level of learning in conjunction with local health officials.

St. Charles City, County install new drive-up drop boxes for residents The city of St. Charles and St. Charles County Government have partnered to install drop boxes for residents to submit bill payments and other items. The secure boxes are located on a drive-up island on Second Street in St. Charles and provide a safe, convenient alternative to entering St. Charles City Hall or the St. Charles County Administration Building. They replace payment boxes located in front of the buildings.

“We wanted to provide residents with an option to conduct business from the comfort of their vehicles if they do not feel comfortable entering these public facilities during the pandemic,” said city of St. Charles Mayor Dan Borgmeyer. “This is just one of the many precautions the city and county have worked on together to encourage social distancing in our community.”

With real estate and personal property tax bills due annually on Dec. 31, St. Charles County Collector of Revenue Michelle McBride strongly encourages taxpayers who wish to submit tax payments in-person to use the county drop box.

“December is our busy month and we want to do all we can to avoid long lines of taxpayers who need to socially distance; we are doing everything we can to assist in keeping our community healthy,” explains McBride.

The island is located between St. Charles City Hall at 200 North Second Street and the St. Charles County Administration Building at 201 North Second Street and is now available for public use. Both city and county drop boxes can be accessed by traveling north or south on Second Street.

Following are the items that can be submitted in the drop boxes: • City of St. Charles Drop Box: Bill payments.

• St. Charles County Government Drop Box: Real Estate and Personal Property Tax payments, Personal Property Assessment forms, and original permit bonds.

The boxes will be checked and emptied by city and county staff every weekday, excluding holidays. For questions, please call the city of St. Charles at 636-949-3200 or St. Charles County Government at 636-949-7900.

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • August 5, 2020

Around Town

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Habitat for Humanity of St. Charles County launches 2020 Virtual Homebuyer Readiness Program Together with community partners, Habitat for Humanity of St. Charles County offers free financial coaching and skills through the Homebuyer Readiness Program, which began Aug. 4.

The comprehensive eight-week program consists of workshops designed to help individuals overcome financial challenges to achieve their goals of homeownership, as well as learn how to navigate the often complex process in the purchase of a home. Classes will be hosted via Zoom video conferencing. Registration at habitatstcharles.org is required.

Workshop topics include credit, debt, budgeting, setting goals, saving money, as well as a complete tutorial on how to get pre-approved for a mortgage. Benefits to participants in the Homebuyer Readiness Program include one-on-one coaching sessions that personalize the program to a participant’s specific financial needs and goals. Upon completion of the program, participants will have created a personalized budget, gained an overall understanding on ways to improve their credit and set a path toward obtaining pre-approval for a mortgage.

“The cost of homeownership has doubled in our area, making owning a home out of reach for many families that earn below $50,000 annually,”

Submitted photo Together with community partners, Habitat for Humanity of St. Charles County offers free financial coaching and skills through the Homebuyer Readiness Program, which began Aug. 4.

said Michelle Woods, executive director, Habitat for Humanity of St. Charles County. “Through programs like the Homebuyer Readiness Program, Habitat for Humanity of St. Charles County is a leader in helping to solve housing issues in our community, partnering with families and providing the greatest tools needed for homeownership: financial education. Through the help of our valued community partners, we are able to reach families in St. Charles, Lincoln and Warren Counties, and with the investment of time and hard work, the door to home ownership can open for more families in our community.”

Cottleville firefighters donate $11,500 to the Muscular Dystrophy Association

Submitted photo In an effort to fundraise despite the pandemic, Cottleville firefighters collected a donation from its members totaling $11,500 for MDA.

For over 65 years, filling-the-boot for MDA has been a firefighter tradition. Members of the International Association of Firefighters collect donations each summer to support the programs and treatments of the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

“This year is going to look different,” says Cottleville Fire District Battalion Chief Rusty Shelton, “we need to keep everyone apart. Collecting in person isn’t practical right now.”

IAFF Local 2665 and the MDA are expecting fewer donations this year due to the same concerns all across Eastern Missouri. In an effort to

fundraise despite the pandemic, Cottleville firefighters collected a donation from its members totaling $11,500 for MDA. “We hope this helps our partner to keep providing services to children that need them,” said Cottleville Fire District Shop Steward Ben Toedebusch.

The Cottleville firefighters have also encouraged other firefighters in the area to consider donating directly as well.

“We ask our community for help every year,” said Shelton, “we want the public to know that this means a lot to us.”

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August 5, 2020 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

St. Charles County Executive, mayors, chambers send plea to local businesses: require masks St. Charles County leaders have joined together to strongly request that all businesses in the county require customers to wear cloth face coverings in their establishments. This plea comes after an increase in the number of positive COVID-19 cases in the county over the past several weeks. The local leaders want to stop the spread of the virus now, before even suggesting a return to even a modified version of shelter in place.

“It is not too late to get this resurgence under control,” says Scott Tate, President & CEO of the Greater St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce. “Everyone needs to be cautious and considerate of others.

Business owners can help immensely by making mask wearing a requirement in their establishment.”

County Executive Steve Ehlmann says, “We are encouraging businesses to please require anyone who enters their place of business to wear a mask. Most national chains have done this already. Nevertheless, we believe that each businessperson, after considering their responsibility to their customers, should have the freedom to make the decision. And when they make that decision, they need to be aware of the challenges the county is facing.”

St. Charles County is not immune to the increase in COVID-19 sweeping the nation. Across the United States, cities, counties and states are asking for or

mandating the use of masks. Top health organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and numerous healthcare systems recommend wearing masks. While medical experts initially questioned the benefit of masks at the onset of the pandemic, the St. Charles County Department of Public Health has consistently recommended that residents wear cloth face coverings when in public, practice social distancing, wash hands often and sanitize common areas.

“The move to ‘mandatory masks’ is incredibly difficult to monitor and enforce,” says St. Charles Mayor Dan Borgmeyer. “But, businesses like Walmart, Schnucks, Dierbergs, CVS and others mandating masks makes the effort 100 percent enforceable. We believe the business community can make a very strong and positive statement by leading on this effort to help flatten the curve of cases in the county.

“We have asked our residents and visitors to take personal responsibility and wear a mask when they are visiting businesses,” Borgmeyer continued. “Now we need businesses to make certain that is being done. We want businesses to remain open, and with everyone’s cooperation, we can make that happen voluntarily.”

Those joining in this request to businesses, in addition to Tate, Ehlmann and Borgmeyer, include Mayor

Len Pagano, St. Peters; Mayor Bill Hennessy, O’Fallon; Mayor Jim Hennessey, Cottleville; Mayor David Zucker, Dardenne Prairie; Mayor Don Licklider, Weldon Spring; Mayor Kathy Schweikert, Lake Saint Louis; Mayor Nick Guccione, Wentzville; Wendy Berry, Executive Director, Cottleville-Weldon Spring Chamber of Commerce; Kathy Duck, President/CEO, O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce & Industries; and Tony Mathews, President/CEO, Western St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce.

“Our community works best when we work together,” says St. Peters Mayor Len Pagano. “Masking up while helping our businesses stay open and keeping our friends and neighbors on the job is the solution to stopping the spread and beating these challenges. St. Peters is proud to be a part of this united effort!”

The leaders have a message for all community residents and businesses: “Mask Up, St. Charles County.

Let’s keep St. Charles County safe and economically healthy.”

Businesses looking for a free sign to get this message across can download and print one from the County’s website at sccmo.org. For questions about COVID-19 symptoms or testing, call the St. Charles County Department of Public Health Hotline at 636-949-1899.

Inspiration Corner: “You either see the beauty or you do not. If you do not, no amount of argument can make you see it.”— Peter Marshall I was angry with the bee. The wood borer was doing what they do best; chewing a hole in my wood! Her sharp mandibles gnawed, emitting a strange scraping sound. I stood and flicked her with my pencil. The bewildered bee buzzed away in a flurry of frustration and fear.

“That’ll teach her not to destroy my awning.” I said.

And sat down to read my book.

The book was, “A Man Called Peter”, the story of Rev. Peter Marshall as told by his widow. With colorful descriptions, she remembered the man who emigrated from Scotland as a poor laborer with dreams of entering the ministry, and eventually ended up serving as chaplain to the United States Senate. It was a post he did not think he deserved, but accepted as marching orders from “the Chief,” (God).

Catherine’s prose made me feel like I knew Peter. When he stood before the congregation at New York Avenue Church in Washington, D.C., it was with a sense of utter inadequacy. The congregation was made up “mainly of government workers, GIs, and a sprinkling of Washington’s renowned.” The church had a long history of sitting presidents attending, including Abraham Lincoln. Peter was keenly aware he was not up to the task.

Reverend Marshall –who never procured a college degree – rose to lead the cultural elite by digging away at sin-soaked congregations and pointing to the beauty of Jesus. His firm grasp on the Word of God and his humble attitude toward

Beauty and the bee people affirmatively changed lives. His poetic rendering of the glorious gospel was the most illuminating news ever to reach human ears. When Peter spoke, it was with simplicity, kindliness, and fervor. In fact, he put so much of his heart into his messages that it weakened and eventually gave out at the tender age of 46 – leaving behind his wife and young son.

“They need not fear death – who trust in Jesus Christ, who have committed themselves into His care and keeping. For we are souls living in bodies.” – Rev. Peter Marshall Preachers provoke us with their messages if they are any good at their task. They use an extraordinary book – the Bible – in hopes that next generation will be “born again” and grow into mature adulthood. Without this forward vision, the church would die. Thus, like wood boring bees they return daily to their work even when they get swatted away. Their task is not easy in a culture that denies Jesus was the Son of God. The self-sacrifice Peter epitomized prompted questions in my soul as I surveyed the wood boring bee back at her work. Her formative end bobbed up and down as the wood shavings piled up. She would soon lay her eggs and die ignobly. I considered how much I have to learn from her – and from Peter too.

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 • August 5, 2020

Renaud Center moving to members only due to increase in county’s COVID-19 cases With the number of COVID-19 cases increasing throughout St. Charles County, the city of O’Fallon announced July 26 that the city’s Renaud Center will temporarily be open to members only starting July 27. Additionally, the following recreation classes and programs have been temporarily suspended or postponed: • The final class of the Big Shots Basketball program has been cancelled. Pro-rated refunds will be provided to those registered.

• Swim lessons are temporarily suspended at both the Renaud Center and Alligator’s Creek Aquatic Center. These sessions will be rescheduled when conditions improve.

• The start of the upcoming volleyball and basketball seasons and martial arts sessions will be delayed. These sessions will begin when conditions improve.

• Tumbling classes are suspended. These sessions will be rescheduled when conditions improve.

• The Civic Dance program at Krekel Civic

Center will be suspended. These sessions will be rescheduled when conditions improve.

• The start of this year’s Renaud Center preschool program will be delayed until further notice.

• The Renaud Center’s Kids Korner and concession stand will remain closed until further notice.

“As we have done since the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak, we continue to evaluate the situation and make the best possible decisions on behalf of our members, residents and employees,” said Craig Feldt, Recreation Director. “With the continued increase in cases in our area, and the risk of impact on our programs, we made the difficult decision to suspend these programs that involve significant interaction between our staff and users. We will continue to work with our staff and the County Health Department to ensure that we provide a safe environment for everyone that uses our facilities.”

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Optimist Club of St. Charles recognizes contest winners

Submitted photos (Left) Elena Cook (left), Boys and Girls Club Sponsor, was recognized by the Optimist Club of St. Charles for her support of youth and the Optimist International Essay and Oratorical programs, and Anastasia Cook was recognized as the winner of the club’s 2020 Oratorical Contest. (Right) The Optimist Club of St. Charles recognized the winner of the club’s 2020 Essay Contest, Urias Carryl of St. Charles.

The Optimist Club of St. Charles recognized the winner of the club’s 2020 Oratorical Contest, Anastasia Cook of St. Charles.

Anastasia delivered her winning speech following the club’s weekly luncheon on July 21. This year’s oratorical topic was “Just Imagine a World Without Boundaries.” Elena Cook, Boys and Girls Club sponsor, was also recognized for her support of youth and the Optimist International Essay and Oratorical programs.

The Optimist Club of St. Charles also recognized the winner of the club’s 2020 Essay Contest, Urias Carryl of St. Charles. Following the club’s weekly luncheon on July 14, Urias read his winning essay to club and family members in attendance. This year’s essay topic was “Is Optimism the Key to Achieving the Dreams You Imagine?”

The Optimist Club of St. Charles meets weekly on Tuesdays at noon at Pio’s Restaurant in St. Charles. Persons interested in learning more about the club are encouraged to view the club’s websitehttps://scoptimists.weebly.com/or Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/Optimist-Club-of-St-CharlesMO-416164208567872/.Information on the Oratorical Contest can be found on the Optimist International website.

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Senior Living

August 5, 2020 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

Reduce your risk of another heart attack or stroke After a heart attack or stroke, as many as 1 in 4 survivors will have another one. However, lifestyle changes and working closely with your doctor to manage your health may minimize the risk of a repeat event. Sticking to secondary

prevention routines – by eating healthy, being active and taking medications as prescribed – is important as cases of COVID-19 increase.

“A heart attack or stroke is a very scary experience, and people try to avoid revisiting

“I used to work in Accounts Receivable but I have chosen to work at Seniors Helping Seniors because I thought I would be able to relate to the elderly since I am older too. I wanted to feel like I had something to offer and feel needed in a society where we are often moved aside.”

- Diane Ploussard Come be a Part of our Team

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that difficult time,” said neurologist Lee Schwamm, MD, chair of the American Stroke Association and professor of neurology at Harvard Medical School “Unfortunately, the risk of a repeat stroke is high, and lifestyle changes to reduce a person’s risk are almost always necessary to reduce those odds.”

Up to 80% of second clot-related strokes and heart attacks may be prevented by making healthy choices. Consider these tips from the American Stroke Association’s secondary heart attack and stroke prevention initiative, sponsored nationally

by Bayer.

Blood Pressure: Work with your doctor to ensure you’re maintaining a healthy blood pressure level below 130/80.

High blood pressure is both a leading cause and major risk factor for stroke and heart attack.

Cholesterol: Medication and healthy lifestyle habits can help keep high cholesterol in check.

Blood Sugar: Having diabetes, which is caused by high blood sugar, more than doubles your risk of stroke. Some people have diabetes and don’t know it until a medical emergency happens.

Medications: If you are prescribed medications for high blood pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes, make sure you take them as prescribed.

If you had a clot-related stroke or a heart attack, your doctor may recommend aspirin to help prevent another event. Aspirin is not appropriate for everyone, so talk to your doctor before beginning an aspirin regimen.

Smoking: If you smoke, stop. Smoking increases the risk of stroke and heart attack because it damages blood vessels, which can lead to blockages.

Physical Activity: Being physically active at least 30 minutes a day, most

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

days of the week or 150 minutes per week is recommended by the American Stroke Association.

Even as COVID-19 cases strain emergency medicine, calling 9-1-1 still provides access to life-saving treatments for people experiencing medical emergencies like heart attacks or strokes. Emergency medical responders can assess symptoms, begin treatment and transport the patient to the most appropriate hospital, if necessary.

Based on current information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it appears people 65 and older and people of any age with underlying medical conditions, such as heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes, are more likely to be infected and develop more severe symptoms. Stroke survivors may face increased risk for complications if they get COVID-19.

Find more resources to help manage your risk at stroke.org/ oneisenough.

Know the Warning Signs for Strokes and Heart Attacks Even as COVID-19 cases strain emergency medicine, experts say calling 9-1-1 is still the best way to access life-saving treatments for people who are experiencing heart attack or stroke symptoms.

Heart attacks and strokes are medical emergencies. If some-

one is experiencing stroke or heart attack symptoms, he or she should call 9-1-1. Emergency medical responders can assess symptoms, begin treatment in the ambulance and transport the patient to the most appropriate hospital, if necessary.

Hospitals have plans in place to keep potentially contagious patients away from others and keep surfaces clean. Calling 9-1-1 and activating Emergency Medical Services (EMS) ensures you have the best possible chance to beat a heart attack or stroke. EMS can begin treatment in the ambulance and take you to the hospital best suited to care for you in an emergency.

Stroke warning signs can be remembered using the acronym F.A.S.T.: • F – Face drooping • A – Arm weakness • S – Speech difficulty • T – Time to call 9-1-1 Heart attack warning signs include: • Chest discomfort.

• Discomfort in other areas of the upper body such as one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.

• Shortness of breath.

• Breaking out in a cold sweat • Nausea • Lightheadedness

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • August 5, 2020

School

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Wentzville School District buses score outstanding on state inspection The Wentzville School District Transportation bus fleet was inspected by the Missouri State Highway Patrol on May 12-13 and was found to have an approval rate of 98.8 percent for first-time presentations. For reference, the statewide average in 2019 was 90.6 percent.

Of the 179 buses presented for inspection, only two defects were identified, including one single light bulb that was out, and a crossing arm malfunction. The repairs, re-inspections and approvals were all received while the MSHP inspection team was still on site.

“Every year the Missouri State Highway Patrol conducts a thorough inspection of our fleet to ensure that our buses meet the state safety standards,” said David Wilson, Director of Transportation for the district. “Our entire team works diligently to make sure that the safety of our fleet and transportation of our passengers is at the highest standard. These results are a testament to the transportation staff ’s dedication and effort.”

Last year, WSD buses traveled over 1,536,742 miles and safely transported over 11,000 students every school day.

Photo courtesy Wentzville School District The Wentzville School District Transportation bus fleet was inspected by the Missouri State Highway Patrol on May 12-13 and was found to have an approval rate of 98.8 percent for first-time presentations.

Be Extraordinary CARES Act Grant available for students Through the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act, St. Charles Community College is offering more than $1.3 million in emergency grants to current students.

Students must be eligible for Title IV funds and have completed a 2020-21 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Additionally, students must be enrolled for nine credit hours for the fall semester in a degree or certificate seeking program.

“No matter your situation, our dedicated financial aid staff can help connect you with the resources you need to pay for college for the fall

semester,” said David Leenhouts, vice president for students’ services, “including grants, scholarships and state and federal funding options.”

Students who are eligible for the Be Extraordinary CARES Act Grant award can receive either $500.00 or $750.00. Awards will be disbursed directly to students and will be delivered through the existing SCC process.

All students have to do is fill out a simple survey at stchas.edu/caresact. Students will receive a notification if they have been approved for an award in their SCC email.

Questions can be sent to covid19fa@stchas. edu.

Fort Zumwalt board resolution requests federal stimulus for America’s schools The Fort Zumwalt School District Board of Education unanimously approved a resolution requesting federal stimulus funds for America’s schools at their regular monthly meeting on July 20. A copy of the resolution was forwarded to Missouri Sen. Roy Blunt, who chairs the Subcommittee on the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies for the Senate Appropriations Committee.

The resolution states: “Our nation’s future wellbeing relies on investing in the cornerstone of our democracy – high quality public education systems that prepare all students for college, careers, democracy and lifelong learning, even in the midst of the national and state emergencies.”

It continues: “Our nation’s school systems, colleges and universities must be adequately funded and supported in order to prevent prolonged

learning disruptions, which threaten the future of our communities and our economy.”

In an accompanying letter, Fort Zumwalt Superintendent Dr. Bernard DuBray wrote: “Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Missouri’s budget has taken a nearly $1 billion loss in revenue, much of which has been passed along to public school districts by Gov. Mike Parson, who has the constitutional responsibility of balancing the budget.

In Fort Zumwalt’s case, nearly 15 percent or $8 million in state funding has been lost in foundation formula payments and gambling and lottery revenue.”

In the past, the federal government has provided stimulus packages to help school districts through similar economic situations. In the resolution, the board supports the passage of such a package now.

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What’s Happening

August 5, 2020 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

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

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 Oct. 5: Golf tournament

Operation Food Search, a nonprofit hunger relief organization, will host its 27th annual Swing to Heal Hunger golf tournament presented by Ascension Health with registration beginning at 11 a.m. and a shotgun start at noon.

The tournament will be held at WingHaven Country Club, located at 7777 Winghaven Blvd. in O’Fallon. Tickets – which are $300 per golfer or $1,200 per team of four golfers – include 18 holes with a golf cart, golf goodie bag, lunch, dinner and an auction. Proceeds will go toward ending childhood hunger and family food insecurity in the St. Louis bi-state region. For ticket details or to become a sponsor, call 314-726-5355 or visit http://www.OperationFoodSearch.org.

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.

Mondays: Parent support group

Because I Love You, (BILY), Gateway parent support group meets every Monday at 7:30 p.m. at First United Methodist Church at 801 First Capitol Dr. in St. Charles. For information and directions, please contact the helpline at 314-993-7550 or email gateway_parent_help@yahoo.com.

BILY is a program of self-help for parents of troubled children (all ages). We are not professionals, but parents helping each other. The meetings are free to attend.

Tuesdays: Cottleville Spring Kiwanis Club

Weldon

10 a.m. - 12 noon at the ST. Charles Health Deparment in the Upper Level Conference room. Measurement Mondays is a family-friendly breastfeeding support group. We are open to all moms and moms-to-be who are breastfeeding or interested in breastfeeding. The group is supported by the St Charles County WIC program so there will be information about the program available at each meeting.

Each meeting will be a little different than the last. There will be baby weigh-ins, introductions, games, interactive education, group conversation, and even snacks.

Tuesdays: group

support

A diabetes support group meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month except November and December from 6:30 7:30 p.m. at 400 Medical Plaza, Suite 102 in Lake St. Louis. A new speaker each month. Questions? Call Amanda Meyer at 636-625-5447.

If you have mental health concerns and need support, please come on the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at Grace United Church of Christ at 8326 Mexico Rd. in St. Peters.

Mondays and Wednesdays: Tai Chi for arthritis class

Tuesdays: Kiwanis Club of St. Charles

If you have a family member or friend who is having mental health concerns there is a support group for you. It meets on the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at Grace United Church of Christ at 8326 Mexico Rd. in St. Peters.

607 Westridge Dr., O’Fallon, 636-2190553.

Take Notice . . .

Mondays: NAMI St. Louis Con nection Recovery Support Group

If you have mental health concerns and need support, please come on Mondays at 6:30 p.m. at Friedens United Church of Christ at 1703 Old Highway 94 South in St. Charles.

Mondays: mous

Alcoholics

Anony-

If you want to drink, that’s your business. If you want to stop, we can help.

Call Alcoholics Anonymous at 636970-0013.

Mondays: Seasoned eye carvers meeting

Meetings are held from 9 to 11 a.m. at the St. Charles Senior Citizens Center at 1455 Fairgrounds (near the Bass Pro Shop). Visitors are always welcome.

For more information visit http:// www.stcharlesareawoodcarvers.com/ or contact Charles Sapp at cwsapp@ charter.net.

Mondays: Choral Arts Singers practice

Choral Arts Singers resume practice on Mondays, at 7 p.m. at Transfiguration Episcopal Church, 1860 Lake St. Louis Blvd. in Lake St. Louis. New singers are welcome. Auditions are not required. See www.concertarts.org.

Mondays: St. Charles County Council of the Blind meetings

Business meetings are held on the first Monday of each month (second Monday in September due to Labor Day) unless otherwise specified. No meetings are held in June, July, or December. Meetings are held in the Community Council Building (Second floor of the Spencer Branch Library) from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. For more information contact Beverly Kaskadden (Treasurer) at 636-561-6947.

Mondays: St. Peters Rotary Club

Noon at St. Peters City Hall, One St. Peters Centre Blvd. www.stpetersrotary.org.

Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays: Fitness First Exercise Class

9:30-10:30 a.m., American Legion Hall, 504 Luetkenhaus Blvd., Wentzville. 314-369-6521.

Mondays and Thursdays: Bridge

St. Peters Senior Center plays bridge from 9 a.m. to noon on Monday and Thursdays, and would love to have any player, regardless of skill level, to join in. Call Mary Ann at 636-397-0866 if you are interested in playing on Monday or Thursday morning.

Mondays: American Legion Post 388 Meets

Meets the fourth Monday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at American Legion Hall,

Mondays: Measurement Mondays:

Every Monday and Wednesday a Tai Chi for arthritis class, sponsored by the city of St. Charles Parks and Recreation, takes place from 9:15 - 10 a.m. at Webster Park across from the Family Arena. This is a class that is taught nationally to manage arthritis and to prevent falls. For more information call 636-949-3372.

Tuesdays: Women’s AA weekly meeting

Candlelighters Women in Recovery meets every Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Dardenne Prairie Presbyterian Church (enter at Adam Lamb pre-School, turn left) at 7400 South Outer 364 at the corner with Bryan Road.

Tuesdays: Cribbage Club

Cottleville Weldon Spring Kiwanis Club meets the first Tuesday of the month at 6:00 p.m. and the third Tuesday of the month at 11 a.m. Both meetings are at Rack House Kitchen Wine Whiskey. New club looking for new members who want to better our community. Contact Christy at 314583-0538.

Diabetes

12:05 p.m. at Ginghams Homestyle Restaurant, 1566 Country Clcub Plaza Drive, in St. Charles. Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time. The group is looking for new members who want to better our community and help its youth. If you are interested in making a positive impact in St. Charles for generations to come, please come for lunch. For more information call 636206-2483. You can also visit http://stcharleskiwanis.com.

Tuesdays: Quilting Guild at the O’Fallon Family YMCA

1-4 p.m. Free. Quilt for local charities.

No sewing experience required.

Meets every Tuesday, 12:30 – 3:30 p.m. at The Falls Golf Course Clubhouse.

Relaxed, friendly play and is open to all. Call 314-779-6892 for more information.

Tuesdays: Toastmasters Meeting

Tuesdays: Seniors group

Tuesdays: St. Louis Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association Male Caregiver Experience

Please join us on the third Tuesday of each month from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. for a gathering for senior adults. There will be lunch (no charge), cards and bingo (no charge), community program referrals, occasional health and wellness presentations and clergy available upon request. The event takes place at Church of the Transfiguration at1860 Lake St. Louis Blvd. in Lake Saint Louis. For more information call 636-5618951.

Tuesdays: Optimist Club meeting The St. Charles Optimist Club meets Tuesdays at noon at Pio’s Restaurant.

For more information contact Jack Ross at 314-287-0569 or jack-ross@ att.net.

Tuesdays: Cribbage

Looking for an evening out? Come and play cribbage Tuesdays at 6 p.m. at Rookies at 15358 Veterans Memorial Pkwy in Wentzville. Win prizes and awards with semiannual tournaments.

ACC sanctioned. For more information contact Dee at 636-233-8032.

7 p.m. at the Midwest Bank Centre Board Room at 2299 Technology Blvd., O’Fallon, MO 63368. Info: 636379-2505.

The group meets on third Tuesday of every month from 10-11:30 a.m. at the Alzheimer’s Chapter Office at 9370 Olive Blvd. For more information about Alzheimer’s disease, support, or the Male Caregiver Experience, please call the Alzheimer’s Association’s 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900 or visit www. alz.org/stl. Registration is requested before the first meeting.

Tuesdays: Social club for widows and widowers

On the first and third Tuesday of each month a social club for widows and widowers meets at 7 p.m. at St. John’s United Church of Christ at Fifth and Jackson Streets in St. Charles. On the first Tuesday there are refreshments and on the third Tuesday there is either a speaker or entertainment. The group also goes to breakfast, lunch and dinner monthly, and has a pot luck dinner each month.

Tuesdays: Monthly veterans coffee

Veterans from all branches of service are invited to the Wentzville Green Lantern Senior Center at 506 S. Linn Ave. in Wentzville on the second Tuesday of each month from 9 – 10:30 a.m. for coffee, pastries and camaraderie.

Come meet with fellow veterans who served our country and share your experience.

Tuesdays: NAMI St. Louis Connection Recovery Support Group

Tuesdays: NAMI St. Louis Family Support Group

Tuesdays: Dardenne Presbyterian Church Basketball

8-9:30 p.m., in the Christian Life Center, 7400 South Outer 364 in Dardenne Prairie. Open to high school and adult men.

Tuesdays: Central Missouri Railroad Association meeting

This unique organization is for railroad modelers, railfans, photographers and railroad retirees with layouts in O, HO, N hoping to add G scales. Meetings are on second Tuesdays of the month from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Warrenton Masonic Lodge. For more info call 636-279-5522 or 636-456-0776 or visit our Facebook page.

Tuesdays: Cancer support group

Cancer Companions Support Group is a support group for any cancer patient in treatment or post treatment, their caregiver and their loved ones that meets on the second Tuesday of each month at Dardenne Presbyterian Church at 7400 South Outer 364 in Dardenne Prairie at 7 p.m. in the parlor. Registration is not required.

Tuesdays: Show-me Stitchers Embroiderer’s Guild of America Meets at 7 p.m. on the second Tuesday of the month at the Ladue Chapel.

Info: www.showmestitchers.com.

Tuesdays: O’Fallon Garden Club

Meets at 6:30 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday of the month at Sunrise Methodist Church, 7116 Twin Chimney Blvd.

Info: Barb at 636.978.5930. Club does not meet in August or November.

Tuesdays: St. Charles American Legion Post 312 spaghetti dinner.

5pm, St. Charles American Legion Post 312, 2500 Raymond Drive in St. Charles on the last Tuesday of the month. $6 per person. For more information call Post 312 at 636-947-7666.

www.mycnews.com • Community News - St. Charles County • August 5, 2020

What’s Happening

9

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

Tuesdays and Thursdays: Tai Chi at the St. Charles County Family YMCA 10:15-11:15 a.m. No experience necessary. 636-928-1928.

Tuesdays and Thursdays: Get Fit Exercise Classes 9-10 a.m. at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church Hall, New Melle. 314369-6521.

Wednesdays: Food pantry

Food pantry open Wednesdays to the public from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Cornerstone UMC at 1151 Tom Ginnever Ave. in O’Fallon. Bread, canned goods other necessities.

Wednesdays: Talk

Veterans

Coffee

Veterans from all branches of the service are invited to attend “Coffee Talk” every Wednesday at. 9 a.m. at Grace Baptist Church, 3601 Ehlmann Rd. in St. Charles (Take I-70 to the Cave Springs exit). We will have applications for VA health care, applications for the honor flight, reports from local American Legion and VFW halls and lots of good comradery. Come join us for free coffee and donuts and enjoy an hour with your fellow veterans.

Wednesdays: St. Charles Area Wood Carvers

Meetings are held from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. at the Hollenbeck Middle School at 4555 Central School Road in St. Charles. Visitors are always welcome.

For more information visit http:// www.stcharlesareawoodcarvers.com/ or contact Charles Sapp at cwsapp@ charter.net.

Wednesdays: Marine League meeting

Corp

On the first Wednesday of each month the St. Charles County Marine Corps League meets at the American Legion 313 old town St. Peters at 7:30 p.m.

All Marines and FMF Corpsmen are welcome. For more information visit www.stcharlesmarine.org.

Wednesdays: Women’s fishing club

Gateway Bass ‘n Gals all women’s bass club has monthly meetings the first Wednesday of every month at JJ’s Restaurant at 1215 S. Duchesne Dr. in St. Charles at 7 p.m. Women of any fishing level please come and check out our women-only fishing club.

Wednesdays: Crossroads Cribbage Club

Meets at 1380 Boone St., at 12 p.m. in Troy. 636-528-8379.

Wednesdays: Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS)

Take Off Pounds Sensibly meets every Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. in the United Methodist Church at 725 N. Wall St. in Wentzville. TOPS is a national non-profit weight-loss organization that supports its members in attaining their goal weight. There is no cost for the first meeting. All are welcome.

Wednesdays: Men’s Golf League

Wednesdays, April - October. 5 p.m., tee off at 5:30 p.m. at Heritage of Hawk Ridge. For more information, contact the Lake St. Louis Community Association at 636-625-8276.

Wednesdays: Charity Bingo

6:45pm, Doors open at 5 p.m. VFW Post 5077 sponsors, at VFW Hall, 8500 Veterans Mem. Pkwy., O’Fallon. 636272-1945 or www.vfwpost5077.org.

Wednesdays: Yoga at The St. Charles County Family YMCA

6-6:55pm Any level. Info: 636-9281928.

Wednesdays: Hope & Healing

5-6pm, Dardenne Presbyterian Rock Church, 7400 South Outer 364 in Dardenne Prairie on the first Wednesday of the month. Unique service of music, worship, and prayer for those in need of hope and healing.

Wednesdays: St. Charles Area Wood Carvers

7 p.m. – 9 p.m. Meetings are held at the Hollenbeck Middle School at 4555 Central School Road, St. Charles, Missouri on the first and third Wednesday of the month. Visitors are always welcome! For more information check the club web site: www.stcharlesareawoodcarvers.com/ or contact Charles Sapp.

Wednesdays: Take Off Pounds Sensibly

Take Off Pounds Sensibly meets every Wednesday at 10 a.m. in the parish hall of Chapel of the Cross Lutheran Church at 907 Jungermann Rd. in St. Peters. TOPS is a national non-profit weight-loss organization that supports its members in attaining their goal weight. There is no cost for the first meeting. All are welcome. Weigh-ins begin at 9 a.m. Contact Judy Bauer at 636-541-2263 for further information.

Thursdays: meeting

American

Legion

On the first Thursday of each month, American Legion Post 323 meets at 7:30 p.m. at the American Legion Hall at 504 Luetkenhaus Blvd. in Wentzville. For more information call 636327-6060.

Thursdays: Lions Club meeting

Wentzville Outreach Lions Club meets the second Thursday of the month at Schnucks at 1960 Wentzville Pkwy in Wentzville at 6 p.m. Contact Jimmy Butler at 314-780-5629 or Lisa Alexander at 314-258-1069 for more information.

Thursdays: TOPS meeting

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) Club 661 Wentzville holds meetings every Thursday in room 21 at The United Methodist Church of Wentzville, 725 Wall Street. Weigh ins at 9:30, meetings begin at 10 a.m. For more information call 314-650-1014.

Thursdays: O’Fallon Rotary Club meetings

O’Fallon Rotary Club meets from 7:30 - 8:30 a.m. at Rendezvous Café & Wine Bar at 217 S. Main St. in O’Fallon every Thursday. Visitors are always welcome. For more information, call President, Lisa Muncy at 636-240-0912.

Thursdays: Optimist Club meetings

The O’Fallon Optimist Club meets on the second and fourth Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at Bank of Old Monroe T.R. Hughes Blvd. in O’Fallon.

For more information, contact CyndySchwab at 636-544-0102.

Every Thursday: Kiwanis Club of St. Peters

6:30am at IHOP (3851 Veteran’s Memorial Pkwy St. Peters).

Every Thursday: Kiwanis Club of O’Fallon

Meets at JJ’s Restaurant in O’Fallon at 12 noon, except third Thursday the group meets at 6 p.m. Info: www.ofkiwanis.com.

SUDOKU answers from page F-1

Thursdays: Lions Club meetings

St. Charles Lions Club meets every second and fourth Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. at 1144 S Benton Street in St. Charles. Contact Art for more info at 636-441-1831. New members are welcome.

3rd Thursday: Fleur de Lis Garden Society

Meets third Thursday of the month, 6:30 pm at the McClay Library in St. Charles. Info: www.fleurdelisgardensociety.org;

3rd Thursdays: Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 458 Meeting

7pm, Amvets Post 106, 360 Brown Rd in St. Peters.

Those who served in any branch between 1962 and 1975 are welcome.

Every Thursday: Dardenne Presbyterian Church Quilters

9am-2pm, Dardenne Presbyterian Church, 7400 South Outer 364 in Dardenne Prairie.

Members do hand quilting to quilts of any size for donation that is given to various church supported charities.

No experience is necessary to join the group. For more information, contact Brenda Kenny at 636.240.3753.

CROSSWORD answers from page F-4

10

Sports

August 5, 2020 • Community News - St. Charles County • www.mycnews.com

Sports you see with Gary B...

Seeing baseball in O’Fallon will end in about a week The O’Fallon Hoots, among other teams, play wood-bat baseball at T.R. Hughes until Aug. 14.

Mostly local college players show off their talent in front of possible scouts to earn a position in a higher league.

Go to www.OFallonHoots.com to get the entire schedule. *Entertainment at a great price

www.ofallonhoots.ccocm/tickets/miniplans!

Lindenwood football ranked high in the polls Lindenwood University’s football team has been nationally recognized in multiple preseason polls, while Drew Seers is featured on the College Football American Yearbook Division II Preseason Starting Lineup.

The Lions as a team were slated in the No. 27 spot of the 2020 Division II Preseason Top 30 in the College Football America poll. Of the 30 teams in the poll, three fell victim to the Lions in 2019 including Ouachita Baptist who was selected in the No. 12 spot. This year, Lindenwood is set to face three teams picked in the polls. Along with Truman State and UIndy, the Lions will take on Tiffin University who is one spot behind the Lions at No. 28.

In other polls, Lindenwood was ranked 13th in the 2020 Street and Smith Preseason Poll, while earning the No. 17 spot in the LINDY’S Sports Preseason Poll.

Seers earned a spot on the preseason starting lineup, after an outstanding 2019 campaign. The St. Louis native earned first-team All-American honors across three media outlets, while being named the GLVC Defensive Player of the Year. He earned GLVC Player of the Week accolades three different times throughout the year and ranked second in the country with 13.5 tackles per game.

A product of Parkway West, Seers set a new school record with 17.0 tackles for loss in 2019, and compiled 99 assisted tackles.

Lindenwood is set to open the 2020 season on Sept. 12 against Kentucky Wesleyan in St. Charles. *Lets see if it comes about

www.Langinsurance.com

UMSL tennis excels on the court and in the classroom The 2019-20 University of Missouri-St. Louis men’s and women’s tennis teams combined to have 12 student-athletes earn Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) Scholar-Athlete honors, as announced by the organization.

Each program was also recognized as an All-Academic Team, accumulating at least a 3.2 GPA as a team. However, the Tritons far exceeded that mark with the women posting a 3.88 and then men a 3.71.

In order to earn ITA Scholar-Athlete status a player must earn a minimum 3.5 GPA over the academic year. *Not easy to accomplish Soccer team signs special assistant The St. Louis Ambush, members of the Major Arena Soccer League (MASL), has resigned their mascot, Bushwhacker, to a one-year deal, the team announced.

Bushwhacker has been the official mascot of the current Ambush franchise since the team’s inception in 2013. A previous version of Bushwhacker also served as mascot for the original St. Louis Ambush club, which played in the old NPSL from 1992 to 2000.

Ambush Head Coach Hewerton said, “Although Bushwhacker isn’t a player, he helps our team by spreading enthusiasm and positive vibes during our home games.” *eader of the pack 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 • August 5, 2020

Recipe:

Take the fear out of fish

If you’re not familiar with buying and cooking seafood, there’s nothing to fear. Frozen seafood is an affordable, nutritious and sustainable protein that can earn a spot in your kitchen. Good food pioneers chef Nora Pouillon, a James Beard Lifetime Achievement Award winner, and her daughter, Blue Circle Foods product director Nina Damato, offer these recommendations for sustainable frozen seafood, from defrosting techniques to cooking tips and seasonal pairings.

Feature

F-1

– SUDOKU –

Why buy frozen? Frozen seafood is just as high quality as fresh since modern techniques like flash-freezing preserve fish moments after it is caught. Stores generally carry a larger selection of frozen fish and it’s typically less expensive than fresh seafood. Because frozen fish keeps longer, you can find greater variety and more sustainable options. Plus, it’s convenient – use exactly the portion you need and save the rest for later – making it perfect for meal planning.

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.

Pumpkin Seed Crusted Salmon Recipe courtesy of chef Nora Pouillon Ingredients: 2 cups frozen sweet corn 1 can (4 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained 1 red bell pepper, diced 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon smoked chili (optional)

salt, to taste pepper, to taste 1 cup pumpkin seeds 4 teaspoons pumpkin seed oil or olive oil 2 tablespoons sliced scallions 2 Frozen Atlantic salmon fillets

Directions: Preheat oven to 375 F. Mix corn, black beans, bell pepper, cilantro, ground cumin and smoked chili, if desired. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Spread onto baking dish.

In blender, pulse pumpkin seeds, oil, sliced scallions and salt and pepper, to taste, until paste forms.

Coat frozen salmon fillets with pumpkin seed paste.

Place fillets in baking dish on top of black bean and corn salad. Bake 2530 minutes.

SEE ANSWERS ON PAGE 9

To learn more about frozen seafood and purchase

Movie studios, theaters and restaurants adapt to current climate

I

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.

n today’s climate, entertainment options are always subject to change. Prior to the ongoing pandemic, for instance, a traditional movie distribution system was in place. New releases like “Avengers: Endgame” would arrive in theaters and, approximately 90 days later, studios had the option to make it available on home video or through Video-on-Demand.

After cities and states went on lockdown and theaters closed, movie studios examined other options to release new films.

In April, Universal Studios decided to release “Trolls World Tour” through Video-on-Demand, a move that worked out well for the studio as well as parents looking for new movie options for their children. Universal was so happy with the results that their CEO Jeff Shell said that after theaters reopened, they would release movies in “both formats. That meant that moviegoers could see Universal films in theaters when they reopened or by paying to view it through a premium service.

Adam Aron, chief executive of AMC Theaters, was originally unhappy with that decision because it violated the long-established

‘Trolls World Tour’ photo courtesy

90-day release window. At that time, Aron announced that they would no longer show Universal releases. The theater chain and studio recently came to an understanding that could be mutually beneficial, though. They agreed to shorten the traditional release window to 17 days and allow new films to show up on premium on-demand services.

AMC Theaters also delayed reopening their theaters because highly anticipated films like Christopher Nolan’s “Tenet” and “Wonder Woman 1984” have shifting release dates.

Having Universal’s films available to them would greatly help with their reopening plans.

Other theater chains have expressed concerns, displeasure with that kind of deal, though. As AMC had pointed out, it goes against what had

been an established release window.

Still, the increased cooperation between movie studios and theaters shows how various businesses are adapting to the current climate. Retailer Walmart is showing its creativity by setting up pop-up drive-ins on the parking lots of their Supercenters. These socially-distanced events should start appearing in August and DreamWorks Animation should be a good summertime option for families and friends.

The lockdown also affected restaurants as well. Those that could offer takeout were able to keep their doors open, but others shut down.

Several weeks back, some restrictions were lifted and places like Dave & Busters were able to reopen. A surge in virus cases forced dining rooms to close once again. Owners got creative and set up outdoor dining options that have become quite popular in my area. Instead of home cooking or takeout, families and friends can dine out in the fresh air at various establishments.

Tough times can bring out the best in people and show how we ingenious we can be. Stay safe and I hope to see everyone at the movies very soon.

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ACTIVE BUYER

August 5, 2020 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

COLLECTIBLES

HELP WANTED

RECORDS WANTED

SERVICES PET CEMETERY

Cash paid for 78, 33 & 45 RPM records

over 4,000 pet burials; over 6 acres; over 60 yrs old. 314-576-3030 www.memoryparkpetcemetery.info www.memoryparkpetcemetery.info

House calls made Call Bob 636-296-5240

Check it Out! www.MYCNEWS.com

SINGERS WANTED

HELP WANTED

NOVENA PRAYER TO ST. JUDE May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world, now and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus, Pray for us. St. Jude, Worker of Miracles, Pray for us. St. Jude, Helper of the Hopeless, Pray for us.

Say this prayer 9 times a day for 9 days, then publish. Your prayers will be answered.

It has never been known to fail.

Thank you, St. Jude. R.H.

Let help advertise YOUR sale!

Call Brooke at 636.697.2414

STATEWIDE CLASSIFIEDS

CLASSIFIED $ SPECIAL! For Garage Sales, Moving Sales, Yard Sales, or Sale of Items.

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AREAS OF CIRCULATION Our FREE publications are available in over 700 convenient locations, including every Dierbergs, Schnucks and Shop ’N Save.

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Feature

August 5, 2020 • Community News • www.mycnews.com

Yeggs

John Hanna

CROSSWORD: Who Said It?

‘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

By Cindy Moore

Change, the subject So apparently the country has run out of change. There’s a national coin shortage. Signs are popping up all over: Exact change please; We need your change; or, credit card only. Even the “Leave a penny, take a penny” cups have been decimated and left…penniless.

Of course this weird occurrence is happening.

After all, it’s only August and 2020 isn’t quite done with her shenanigans.

But why this?

Duh…the virus.

Among other places, people have been avoiding laundromats and buses transit hubs. Places that usually take in lots of coinage. Also stores have been closed and coin deposits in banks are down 50 percent. All this adds up to a drop in circulation. On top of it, the U.S. mint which makes them has decreased staffing in response to pandemic. Then as businesses started to reopen, demand for change exceeded supply, which led to a shortage.

It’s created one hot mess.

Tooth fairies have been hit especially hard.

Toothless tots are waking up expecting to find a few shiny quarters underneath their pillows only to get gypped and find a piece of fruit or IOU’s.

This is not making the children happy. They are arming themselves with fly swatters lying in wait to ambush the penny-pinching fairies.

Football games are coming up, which leaves a big question. What to do about the essential opening coin toss? I know. How about tossing a hot dog? Standy-ups you win, siders you lose?

Or, rock, paper, scissors—GO! And this is happening. People who once used

to scoff at the random penny in the street and pass it by are now having street fights over it.

“Back off! I saw it first.”

“No! It’s definitely mine!”

“OK, ok. We’ll flip a coin for it. Dang! No coins.

Never mind. I know. Rock, paper scissors—GO!” Even the panhandlers in the street with signs that once read, “Buddy can you spare some change?” are now forced to revise their message to, “Buddy can you lend me your credit card?”

Just more chaos to deal with. As for me, I have never passed by a nice shiny penny in the street.

But now there’s the added dilemma: pick up the scarce coin from the ground or risk getting corona from an unknown surface?

Rock, paper, scissors—GO! 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. Involuntary twitch 6. World’s oldest national broadcaster 9. Pilgrimage to Mecca 13. Pacific island greeting 14. “____ the ramparts...”

15. Prefix relating to sun 16. Not so crazy 17. Maiden name indicator 18. Greet the day 19. Mentally prepared for something scary 21. *”There’s no place like home” 23. Liveliness 24. Answer to this clue, e.g.

25. Winter bug 28. Hatha or bikram 30. Incense burner, in a church 35. Bubonic plague spreaders 37. Bottle plug 39. Part of TNT 40. Bad luck predictor 41. *”D’oh!”

43. Cleopatra’s necklace 44. Red Cross supply 46. Have supper 47. Female crab, or crybaby in Australia 48. Belonging to Cree, e.g.

50. Byproduct of combing wool 52. Be nosey 53. Spilled the beans

55. Band booking 57. *”I have always depended on the kindness of strangers” 61. *”The caged bird sings of freedom” 65. Acoustic output 66. Polar toy-maker 68. Oodles 69. *”Everyone wants to be Cary Grant. Even I want to be Cary Grant.”

70. “Funny or ____” 71. Tutor’s student 72. Withered 73. Use a Singer, e.g.

74. Not be frugal DOWN 1. Fresh talk 2. Surveyor’s work 3. Excellent 4. Pen dweller 5. *”Don’t worry ‘bout a thing, ‘cause every little thing is gonna be alright.”

6. *”A martini. Shaken, not stirred.”

7. Samantha of “Full Frontal” 8. Words to live by 9. Submarine sandwich 10. Climbed down 11. Potluck offering 12. *”It’s a moo point” 15. Habituate, like a plant 20. Historical period 22. Tolkien humanoid

24. Global problem?

25. *”Two roads diverged in a yellow wood” 26. Coeur de ____ ____, “Titanic” 27. Embryo cradles 29. Well-behaved 31. Lice eggs 32. “Sesame Street” prominent architecture feature 33. Not right 34. *”Yo, Adrian!”

36. Give the cold shoulder 38. Bingo-like game 42. 1837 to 1901, to Queen Victoria 45. Ronald McDonald or Mickey Mouse 49. ____-di-dah 51. Hanukkah’s eight 54. Must-haves 56. “Faster!” to a horse 57. Tea servings 58. Fishing decoy 59. Month before Nisan 60. Half a golf round 61. “____ ____Good Men” 62. Like the White Rabbit 63. Inviting sign 64. Like a hand-me-down 67. Baron Munchausen’s statement

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