CN: March 8, 2023

March 8, 2023

A life on the river

Around Town

March 12: The second annual Florissant St. Patrick’s Parade, Festival, and 5K Run. Pg. 3

Registration underway for the spring 2023 session of Ten Toe Express walking program. Pg. 4

Features (FLIP)

Recipe, Movie & Sudoku. Pg. F-1

CLA SSIFIEDS AND HOME & GARDEN. Pg. F-2 /F-3

Moore On Life, Lifestyle & Crossword Puzzle. Pg. F-4

Weather

By Wendy Todd

One of the most popular activities in St. Louis is going on a Riverboats at the Gateway Arch cruise along the Riverfront. The season for this family-friendly event kicked off last week, and one of the beloved captains at the helm will be Riverboat Captain Kevin East, the first African-American person in Missouri to get a license to navigate a vessel.

This year marks East’s 31st year as a riverboat captain, and East still holds that history-making moment dear.

“I felt on top of the world when I received my license in 1992,” East said. “It was a major accomplishment and an honor to be the first African American in the state of Missouri. Thirty-one years later, it still holds special meaning.”

East always loved being near water. When

he was growing up, his mother would take him to the riverfront to look at boats. He was enthralled. East went on his first boat ride at eight-years-old on The Admiral, and thought it was “the coolest thing ever.” He became intrigued by the mechanics of boating and later, at 18 got a job as a deck hand.

“I worked my way up from a deck hand to the pilot’s house,” the captain said. “To this day I enjoy operating a boat so much, it feels like a hobby instead of a job.”

Though his mother was supportive of his interest in working on a boat, when he told people about his dream of being a boat captain, he wasn’t always met with encouragement. There aren’t many Black people in the field and therefore not many examples for people to look to and validate East’s ambitions. But he used the discouragement as motivation.

“I studied hard, sought practical experience and training and ignored people’s negative comments,” East said. “My hard work and dedication paid off and I persevered.”

After getting his license and securing the role as captain, there were some racially based challenges.

“Some people would walk by and question why I was in the pilot house,” East said. “They wanted to know where the real captain of the boat was. I chose not to let that upset me and let my boat-handling skills do the talking. Occasionally, those same people who questioned why I was in the pilot house would return and say I did a good job.”

East has made such an impact with his history-making career that his jacket and hat are being featured in the collections of

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The 2023 Riverboats at the Gateway Arch cruise season kicked off March 3. One of the three captains at the helm will be Riverboat Captain Kevin East.

Riverboat captain marks 31st year at the helm after becoming the first African American in the state to receive his captain’s license

The second annual Florissant

The Florissant St. Patrick’s Parade Committee and the City of Florissant are bringing back the Florissant St. Patrick’s Parade for the second year in 2023. Last year’s inaugural event brought thousands of people to Old Town Florissant along the parade route and at the festival grounds.

The day kicks off with a 5K run at 9 a.m. which starts at the Old St. Ferdinand Shrine and winds its way through Old Town Florissant. The route this year is different from last year’s, in that it incorporates St. Patrick Lane in Florissant.

After the run the parade will begin at 12 p.m. at Duchesne Elementary. The parade route goes north on

St.

Patrick’s Parade, Festival, and 5K Run is set for March 12

New Florissant, makes a left on St. Francois, a left on Graham Road, a right on Washington, and ends at the Duchesne Home Association Grounds (The Knights of Columbus 2951). After the parade everyone is encouraged to attend the festival at the Duchesne Home Association grounds. The festival runs from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. and will have several attractions including:

Leprechaun Land – This will be a new kid’s area for the festival. This will include a face painter, balloon artist, pony rides, petting zoo, and visits from the Florissant Police and Fire Department and more.

Food and drink – There will be over 15 food truck/ drink vendors, BBQ fundraiser being put on by the St.

‘RIVER’ from cover

the Missouri Historical Society, an honor he never expected. But it’s one of a number of honors East has received, including June 4 being named Captain East Day in St. Louis by then-mayor, Vincent C. Schoemehl in 1992.

“The recognition I’ve received because of my role has been very fulfilling,” he said. “The well wishes from strangers and especially those who initially said I couldn’t do it have been very fulfilling.”

East not only appreciates the recognition he’s received over the years of his career but also making certain cruise goers enjoy the Gateway Arch Riverboat experience.

Ferdinand Charity Basketball Committee, corned beef and cabbage sold by Mann Meats, the Guinness Experience, Kona Ice, Traveling Tom’s coffee, A/B products sold by the Knights of Columbus, and much more.

Craft vendors – There will be over 40 vendors this year. These include the Kerry Cottage, the Great Irish Wolfhounds, Ozark Honey Bee Farm, Iron Rose Metal Art, and many other local vendors.

The main stage – There will be festive music all day, demos from the St. Louis Irish Pipe and Drums, and three incredible Irish dance troops, as well as a visit from Ukulele Tom and from 3 – 6 p.m. the Rusty Nail Band.

“I hope our guests have fun and learn something new,” he said. “I always enjoy when guests approach me after a cruise and tell me they had a great time and share what they learned. It’s rewarding when a returning guest says they enjoyed the cruise just as much as they did the first time.”

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THEATER REVIEW:

‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ as timely as ever

“To Kill a Mockingbird” has become ingrained in our culture. From seeing the movie several times to reading the novel in high school and college, I am well versed in the story of Scout, Atticus, Tom Robinson and Boo Radley. It’s also the reason why the word “chifforobe” is in my vocabulary.

So it’s not particularly surprising to see “To Kill a Mockingbird” turned into a play, but it is intriguing that it was done by Aaron Sorkin, the acclaimed screenwriter known for walky-talky affairs like “A Few Good Men” and “The West Wing.”

After a successful run on Broadway, the show, fully titled “Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird,” is on tour and now showing at the Fox Theatre through March 12.

The story is virtually unchanged in Sorkin’s hands, as we find ourselves in a small town in Alabama in the 1930s as the events of a summer unfold from the perspective of three childhood friends, tomboy Scout Finch (Melanie Moore), her brother Jem (Justin Mark) and their precocious neighbor Dill (Stephen Lee Johnson). The children are played by adult actors, which actually works better than I thought it would.

Scout and Jem’s father Atticus (Richard Thomas, best known for playing John-Boy on “The Waltons”) is a widower and attorney who is tasked with defending an African-Amer-

ican man named Tom Robinson (Yaegel T. Welch) who has been wrongfully accused of rape by a white woman (Arianna Gayle Stucki) and her dirtbag father (Joey Collins).

In this deeply racist society, Tom’s case seems hopeless; but, Atticus clings to the belief that decency and the justice of the law will win out.

Term papers galore have wrestled with the themes and cultural criticisms of this story for over half a century, so there’s no need for me to go too far in the weeds on that front, only to say that the story remains as powerful and heart-wrenching as ever.

Sorkin’s changes are subtle but impactful, aside from injecting some levity into the proceedings, he adds some important flourishes to the character of Atticus.

Atticus Finch has taken on an almost saintly presence in American culture as an infallible icon of humanity and compassion, thanks mostly to Gregory Peck’s portrayal in the classic film.

Here Sorkin let’s Atticus’ flaws show through and while all the attributes that make him such a beloved character stay true-blue, Atticus seems more human and relatable as a man with doubts, errors in judgement and even prejudices of his own.

The overall cast is outstanding, although my only quibble would be that the touring

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By Mathew DeKinder

production needs to invest in a dialect coach as some of the Alabama accents move from shaky to non-existent at times.

Robinson is a standout as a man on trial for his life and caught up in forces greater than anyone can control. Jacqueline Williams is also terrific as Calpurnia, the Finch’s housekeeper who is equal in emotional stature to Atticus and the only person capable of calling him to account for his shortcomings.

And much respect to Thomas, who takes on this daunting role and makes it his own in a performance full of grace and charm.

No matter how many times you’ve encountered “To Kill a Mockingbird,” this production will blow you away with a story that, sadly, feels just as timely as ever.

“Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird” is now playing at the Fox Theatre through March 12. For tickets call 314-534-1111 or go to metrotix.com.

This year marks Captain Kevin East’s 31st year as a riverboat captain. In February 1992, East was the first African American in the state of Missouri to obtain his license to navigate a vessel. East’s captain hat and jacket from his early days as a riverboat captain are now in the collections of the Missouri Historical Society.

Home Builders Association donates $16,950 to Marygrove

On behalf of the Home Builders Charitable Foundation (HBCF), 2023 HBA President Jeremy Roth (Elite Development Services/McBride Homes)

(left) presented a $16,950 donation to Marygrove development associate Annie Lorenz.

The donation will be used to replace flooring in the organization’s Rosewood and Aspen Cottages, which are part of Marygrove’s Therapeutic Residential Treatment Program and provide a home for 30 youth, ages 13-18, who are receiving the help they need to heal from their past experiences of trauma.

Marygrove serves approximately 100 children and young adults each day who are struggling with behavioral, emotional or other mental health challenges. These challenges are often the result of abuse, neglect, homelessness, abandonment, and other trauma. Marygrove offers a continuum of behavioral health programs to help the at-risk youth learn to manage their conditions and develop

St. Louis County Children’s Service Fund offers community resources

In honor of Black History Month, St. Louis County Children’s Service Fund (CSF) provided residents of St. Louis County with resources to help recognize, support and highlight the important contributions of black-led organizations within the community.

As the largest children’s service fund in Missouri, CSF distributes funds to nonprofit and governmental entities that offer mental and behavioral health services to children and their families, including historically underserved communities in St. Louis County.

the skills needed to live a productive and healthy life.

The HBA is a local trade association of nearly 600 member firms representing the residential construction industry. The Home Builders Charitable Foundation, the HBA’s charitable arm, is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing housing assistance to people or organizations with special shelter needs.

Missouri adults can now earn an accredited high school diploma online for free

Over 455,000 Missourians left high school without earning a diploma. Now, through a new program from the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, those adults will have the opportunity to finish high school 100% online and at no cost through the Missouri Workforce Diploma Program.

Graduation Alliance has been selected as an adult high school diploma provider, made possible with the passage of SB718 by the 101st Missouri General Assembly. This program offers Missouri adults aged 21 and older the opportunity to earn their diploma for free while completing their coursework online, when and where it works best for them. Adult students will also receive support from teachers, 24/7 tutors, and a personal Academic Coach who monitors pace and progress.

“Going back to high school as an adult is challenging for a myriad of reasons,” Graduation Alliance CEO Ron Klausner said. “Our goal is to remove as many barriers to graduation as possible and give students access to a high-quality education with a robust support system made up of people who understand the unique challenges of adult learners.”

Graduation Alliance is accredited by Cognia, and successful graduates will receive an accredited traditional high school diploma that will be accepted

by employers, colleges and universities, and the U.S. military. Adult students also have the opportunity to earn career certifications to further their education and build employability skills while earning their high school diploma.

Graduation Alliance provides workforce diploma programs in several states and is positioned to make a positive impact on Missouri adults living without a high school diploma. Nearly a quarter (24.7%) of adults over 25 without a high school diploma were living in poverty in 2020 – the largest group of people in poverty by educational attainment – according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

“Based on survey data collected six to nine months after program completion, 76% of our graduates have access to new or better jobs or promotions,” Klausner said. “They also reported wage increases, better opportunities for continuing education, and increased access to employer-sponsored healthcare.

Graduation Alliance workforce diploma programs have a track record of improving students’ lives and the communities they live in.”

To qualify, you must be 21 years of age or older, be a Missouri resident, have access to a computer and the internet, and have not completed a GED or another high school equivalency. For more information and to sign up, visit MissouriDiploma.com.

“Black History Month is a great time to highlight some of our Black-led partner organizations and recognize the difference they make in the lives of those living in St. Louis County,” said Emily Koenig, executive director of CSF. “We are excited to share their stories and hope to spread the word about the services available to anyone in need.”

CSF is proud to support many services through its Core and Grassroots Funding Opportunities. This includes organizations like Bridging Families to Communities and Beyond.

“Black History Month allows for fuller and more accurate accounts of the many benefits that African Americans have contributed to every aspect of formulating our amazing country,” said Julia Abernathy, executive director of Bridging Families to Communities and Beyond.

“At Bridging Families to Communities and Beyond, we believe that knowledge of Black history provides all of our participants with a deeper sense of pride and strength from which they can draw encouragement for facing and overcoming the challenges they encounter in becoming successful, self-sufficient members of our society.”

Another organization funded by CSF is A Red Circle, which seeks to promote opportunities for racial equality in North County. A Red Circle offers program-

ming and services in education, healthy food, health equity and the arts.

“The community is the heart of our organization, and we welcome them to get involved in the planning and implementation of our programs,” said Erica Williams, founder and executive director of A Red Circle.

Residents of St. Louis County are encouraged to explore CSF’s list of highlighted partner organizations. For additional resources and ways to celebrate Black History Month, family-friendly books are also available and can be found at https://www.pbs.org/parents/ thrive/childrens-books-to-celebrateblack-history-month%20/.

For more information on CSF, their partner organizations and how to get involved in their funding process, visit stlcsf.org.

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Registration underway for the spring 2023 session of Ten Toe Express walking program

With the start of spring right around the corner, Citizens for Modern Transit (CMT) in partnership with AARP in St. Louis are inviting older residents who want to get out and explore St. Louis to register for the award-winning CMT Ten Toe Express program.

Featuring weekly guided tours across each 12-week session that mix walking and transit use, the program allows participants to explore multiple cultural destinations across the region in a group setting. Registration for the spring session – which runs April 6 through June 30 – is now underway and can be completed online at www.cmt-stl.org or in-person at one of the registration events taking place in Shrewsbury and Belleville throughout March. There is a registration fee of $10 that is required to cover a portion of the program costs.

Over the years, the Ten Toe Express program has helped thousands of older adults and other individuals lead healthier lives by linking activity, sociability and exercise with the use of MetroLink and MetroBus.

Each weekly Ten Toe Express walking tour is led by a trained, volunteer walk leader and ranges in length from 0.3 to five miles, depending on the group and destination.

Each tour starts from one of six area transit centers: Brentwood I-64, Forest Park-DeBaliviere, Belleville, Rock Road, North Hanley or Shrewsbury-Lansdowne

44.Participants then take the MetroLink or MetroBus to Forest Park, downtown St. Louis, the Delmar Loop, downtown Belleville and other areas (depending on the week), where they explore local attractions and stop for lunch or a snack before heading back.

Special walks are scheduled periodi cally throughout the season. Walking maps with instructions on how to utilize transit to get to many of the region’s cultural and entertainment hot spots are available online to assist those who want to explore areas independently.

First-time registrants receive a walking kit containing a pedometer, maps, transit tickets, and a safety tips flyer in a Ten Toe tote bag. Any individual who opts into receiving information on AARP also receive a special gift, while supplies last. Registration can be completed at www.cmt-stl.org or at the following registration events:

• March 8 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Shrewsbury Community Center: (5200 Shrewsbury Avenue, Shrewsbury)

• March 8 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Belleville Transit Center: (800 Scheel Street, Belleville, Illinois)

• March 10 from 10 a.m. to noon at the St. Clair County Office on Aging: (201 North Church Street, Belleville, Illinois)

arch 24 from 10 a.m. to noon at the St. Clair County Office on Aging: (201 North Church Street, Belleville, Illinois)

“The Ten Toe Express program has been a wonderful resource for older adults who want to socialize, get moving and become familiar with our region’s transit system,” said Kimberly Cella, executive director of Citizens for Modern Transit. “Since the program’s inception in 2007, more than 8,000 older adults have participated, with hundreds returning each year. Many of these individuals have built lasting friendships, while learning how to utilize transit to get to several attractions and destinations across the region – a benefit to those who want to remain independent and mobile as they age.”

To learn more about the Ten Toe Express program, visit www.cmt-stl.org or call 314-231-7272.

Yes, I will Still In This Together:

There have been some unusual finds in this whole process of cleaning out the basement that has been left to its own devices for the most part of 45 years. Oh, we shuffled things around some once in a while, and used and replaced laundry detergent, but suffice it to say that if the basement had been able to reproduce papers and nails and garden gloves and paper clips on its own, we would have been gobbled up in our sleep by them long ago.

But not all of the discoveries we’ve made have been unwelcome ones. John came across two shirts he lost a few years ago and was very convinced he had left behind in a vacation condo. It was an exciting day, to be sure.

I found the box that held my high school and college diplomas, a very sweet card that I’d saved from a bouquet of roses sent on our first anniversary of dating that said, “One for each month, and I’ve already placed an order for next year’s dozen.”

Our kids need to know that their dad really does have a tender soul, as much as he will argue the opposite.

I also found an exam paper from an elective class I took in senior year of college that I remember saving because of the words the professor had kindly written in the margins. He complimented me on one answer, writing, “I would be hard pressed to think of a better answer than you have written. Perfect.”

And, the comment that caused me to save the paper for 50 years: “This is a superior exam. It is a delight when a teacher can learn from a student’s responses to his questions.”

The impact of that statement has followed me through the years, and allowed me to believe that I could continue to pursue my personal education through a love of reading, and attempt to bring insight to others through my words.

By Vicki Bahr

And in the very back of the box, tucked inside an envelope of old family pictures, I found the truest treasure. A bookmark.

My Aunt Jo, who was an excellent crocheter, seamstress and cross-stitcher, who contributed several handmade ornaments to our Christmas tree over the years, in addition to coincidentally making the best vinegar and oil coleslaw I have ever eaten in my life, had given me a hand-made bookmark that I haven’t seen in years, and obviously needed to.

It is a simple piece of brown cross-stitch fabric with the message painstakingly stitched in green and brown and yellow letters: “When This You See, Remember Me” JR.

And there she was in the picture tucked underneath the bookmark: petite, dark-haired, fun-loving and smiling for all she was worth.

Oh, this is the best of treasures, and I thanked the heavens that this was another of those days of dust and digging through boxes I’d forgotten even existed, that was filled with love and memories and the best of gifts the years could return to me.

I stood in the middle of the basement, crying, and so very glad I’d been granted the chance to whisper aloud to my aunt, “Yes, Aunt Jo, of course I will.”

Vicki Bahr is an inveterate word lover and story sharer, a published author in magazine, newspaper and blog forms. As a mom of four, grandma of nine, and wife of one for 50 years, she finds that inspiration and wonder are everywhere.

The opinions expressed in this column are the columnist’s alone and do not reflect the opinion of the owners or staff of Community News

EVENTS

March 28: Long-term care planning seminar

Long-Term Care Planning event, presented by Ellen M. Lutzow, Attorney at Law, takes place at 10 a.m. at Steve Robbins’ Conference Center at 325 Rue St. Francois in Florissant. The event is free but registration is required. To RSVP call Joan at 314-8394600, email: Joan@SteveRobbinsOnline.com or register online at www.SteveRobbinsOnline.com.

April 27: Shred event

Shred Day! Drive, Drop and Donate takes place from 12 to 1:30 p.m. at Steve Robbins’ Office Parking Lot at 325 Rue St. Francois in Florissant. Help us support T.E.A.M. Food Pantry while cleaning out your old documents. If you are able, please bring a minimum of one canned food item for each bag or box you would like to shred. If you are unable to make it during this time, you are welcome to drop off your documents and canned items throughout that morning.

RECURRING EVENTS

Weekdays: Food pantry volunteers needed

The Harvey Kornblum Jewish Food Pantry is in need of ongoing adult volunteers to sort food, stock shelves and shop with clients. Two-to-four hour shifts are available, Monday-Friday 8:45 a.m.-3:45 p.m.

To learn more or to join this fun group, contact Chelsey Banaskavich at 314-513-1674 or cbanaskavich@jfcs-stl.org.

Mondays: Choral Arts Group meetings

Choral Arts Group practices every Monday from 7 to 9 p.m. at Connection Christian Church at 1332 Feise Rd. in O’Fallon. Auditions not re-

quired. Ages high school and older are invited to join. There will be spring and fall public concerts. For more information call Marty at 636-5799227, or email concertartsa@ gmail.com.

Mondays: City council meetings

City of Pine Lawn holds regular city council meetings at city hall at 6250 Steve Marre Ave. in Pine Lawn on the second Monday of the month at 6:30 p.m. The meetings are open to the public.

Mondays: Workshop meetings

City of Pine Lawn holds regular workshop meetings at city hall at 6250 Steve Marre Ave. in Pine Lawn on the fourth Monday of the month at 6:30 p.m. The meetings are open to the public.

Mondays: A cappella singers

All men who like to sing are invited to come sing with us, The Men of Harmony. We practice every Monday night at 7 p.m. at 5500 Parker Raoad which is the first house on Uthe Lane. We sing four-part harmony a capella (without accompaniment). We sing some traditional songs, as well as show tunes and more contemporary music. We do per-

form for the public at various functions. Persons interested can come right on in or for more information call Al at 314-993-6134.

Mondays-Thursdays: Volunteers needed

Community Action Agency of St. Louis County is in need of volunteers to stock shelves, sort food shipments and pack bags for Food Pantry Clients Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. Two to four hour shifts are available. If you are interested, please contact Cheryl Piece at 314-446-4440 or cpiece@ caastlc.org for additional information.

Tuesdays: Bingo

Florissant Elks Bingo takes place at 16400 New Halls Ferry every Tuesday. Doors open at 4 p.m., bingo starts at 6 p.m. No outside food or drinks allowed per St. Louis County. Food and drinks available for purchase. Maximum 150 players. Must wear mask to enter. Social distancing followed.

Tuesdays: A cappella singers

The Gentlemen of Sound are looking for men who like to sing or want to learn. They practice Tuesdays at Lady of the Pillar school at 401 S. Lindbergh from 7 – 9 p.m.

They try to do public events monthly. Always looking for new members. Come by or call Kirk at 314-954-7920 .

Tuesdays: Chair Zumba

Chair Zumba every Tuesday from 2:15 – 3 p.m. at The Bridge At Florissant at 1101 Garden Plaza Dr. (Parker @ Arlington). For more information call 314-831-0988.

Tuesdays: Celebrate Recovery

Celebrate Recovery Tuesday meetings take place at 6 p.m. with a Saturday Bible Study at 9 a.m. at LifePoint Church at 424 Graham Rd. in Florissant. For more information visit www.lifepointministries. church/celebrate-recovery or call (men) Steve D. at 636634-6582 or (women) Denise W. at 530-417-6151.

Tuesdays: Choir rehearsals

The St. Louis Chordinals, a women’s a cappella chorus, rehearse every Tuesday evening from 7 - 9:30 p.m. at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church at 12397 Natural Bridge Rd. in Bridgeton (next to the Bridgeton Government Center). For more information call Linda at 314-839-3495 or visit stlouischordinals.org.

Tuesdays: TOPS (Take off

pounds sensibly)

From 9:15 - 10:30 a.m. located at John F. Kennedy Center/ Henry Koch Ctr., Howdershell Rd. at Charbonier Rd., Florissant. For more info contact Paul McConnell, 314-8315476.

2nd Tuesday Sept.-June: Show-me Stitchers: Show-me Stitchers is the local chapter of the Embroiderers’ Guild of America. We meet on the second Tuesday, Sept.June at 6:30 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, 14088 Clayton Road, Chesterfield, MO. Learn needlepoint, embroidery, cross stitch, and more.

Every 4th Tuesday of the month: Fort Bellefontaine Memorial American Legion Post 335 meeting 6:30pm, Fort Bellefontaine Memorial American Legion Post 335, at the Bellefontaine Neighbors Community Center at 9669 Bellefontaine Rd. Those interested in membership are invited to attend.

Wednesdays: Bingo Bingo takes place every Wednesday at American Legion Post 338 at 9655 Midland Blvd. in Overland. Doors open at 5 p.m. For more information contact Chairman Ed Hilleman at 314-660-1813.

CROSSWORD answers from page F-4

SUDOKU answers from page F-1

Sports you see with Gary B...

Hoots get new brain trust at the top

The O’Fallon Hoots, proud members of the Prospect League, announced the hiring of Jeff Wetzler as the team’s Manager for the 2023 summer season.

Wetzler comes to O’Fallon after his first season as Southwestern Illinois College’s Hitting and Strength and Conditioning Coach. He replaces previous manager, Bailey Vuylsteke, who took a full-time position in minor league baseball (MLB).

“I want to thank Bailey for his efforts in starting this 2023 Hoots team,” Hoots General Manager David Schmoll said. “I am very excited for Jeff to step into the role and watch how he continues to build the team as we prepare for our summer season. He is someone who is determined to create a culture of success for our players, while also bringing an energy to our stadium that will excite fans. I’m looking forward to him leading our team back to the top of our division and bringing a championship to O’Fallon.”

Wetzler echoed Schmoll’s excitement.

“I’m fired up to be with the Hoots.” Wetzler said. “This is a great league to be in and I’m excited to lead this team this summer!”

The Newburgh, Indiana-native is a Castle High School graduate who played collegiately at Parkland College in Champaign, Illinois for two seasons, where he made a trip to the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Baseball World Series in 2016. Wetzler then transferred to McKendree University (Illinois) where he started in 35 of 39 games on the left side of the Bearcats’ infield. After his playing career ended, the infielder began his coaching career as the hitting coach and strength and conditioning coordinator at Parkland College in 2018, helping move 17 players to NCAA and NAIA schools. Wetzler then took over as the head coach for Combine Academy High School in North Carolina. In 2022, Combine Academy went 31-7 and was

ranked 12th in the nation among high school baseball teams. Wetlzer is now a member of Southwestern Illinois College’s (SWIC) coaching staff, serving his first season as the Blue Storm’s Hitting and Strength and Conditioning Coordinator.

* Hoots shake up from the top

New catcher for 2023 campaign for the Hoots

The O’Fallon Hoots recently announced the signing of catcher Matthew Arnold for the 2023 summer season.

Arnold comes to O’Fallon as a redshirt sophomore from Maryville University.

The six-foot, 200-pound, right-handed catcher attended Marquette High School, graduating in 2020. The Ballwin, Missouri-native went on to play two seasons at St. Charles Community College (SCC), where he had a career .255 AVG, .383 OBP, and .329 SLG in 149 at-bats and 57 games played behind the dish for the Cougars. Following his time with the Cougars, Arnold committed to play at Maryville University. The redshirt sophomore made his debut for the Saints on Feb. 18, where he had one hit and one RBI.

Season starts at home on May 31 against the Cape Girardeau Catfish at 6:35 p.m.

* A new backstop

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, among many other activities. I am 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.

Recipe: A sweet seasonal shake

St.

Patrick’s Day may call to mind hearty meals and pots o’ gold, but that doesn’t mean sweets can’t be part of the equation, too. Add dessert to your celebration with this green Minty Shake, a cold, refreshing way to honor the colorful tradition.

INGREDIENTS:

1 cup whipping cream

1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract

2 teaspoons powdered sugar

1/2 cup milk

1 3/4 ounces Baileys Irish Cream liqueur

3 scoops mint chocolate chip ice cream

DIRECTIONS:

chocolate syrup

chopped sugar cookies, for garnish (optional)

pistachios, for garnish

(optional)

mint chocolate candy, for garnish (optional)

Minty Shake

Using mixer, whisk whipping cream until soft peaks form. Add peppermint extract and powdered sugar; mix until well blended. Set aside.

In blender, blend milk, liqueur and ice cream until smooth.

Drizzle chocolate syrup inside soda glass. Pour ice cream mixture into glass. Top with whipped cream and garnish with cookies, pistachios and mint chocolate candy, if desired.

FindmoreseasonaldessertrecipesatCulinary.net.

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.

Servings: 8

Woody Harrelson’s ‘Champions’ has a good heart, weak legs

What happens when actors who portrayed beloved sitcom characters suddenly pass away? In 1985, the cast of “Cheers” was shocked and saddened by the death of Nicholas Colasanto, the character actor who portrayed the lovable, scatter-brained “Coach” Ernie Pantusso in the early seasons of the show. To fill the gap, a youthful Woody Harrelson came on board as Woodrow Huckleberry Tiberius “Woody” Boyd, a bartender who had corresponded with Coach. Harrelson was the perfect fit for the character and he fleshed out his role even more over the years.

The actor had even greater success in movies such as “The People vs. Larry Flint,” “Natural Born Killers” and “White Man Can’t Jump.” That last basketball-themed movie came to mind while watching a preview of “Champions,” a sports comedy from director Bobby Farrelly (“Dumb and Dumber,” “Shallow Hal.”) Reportedly based on a 2018 Spanish film, the film reminded me of “The Ringer,” a cringe-worthy Johnny Knoxville vehicle where the “Jackass” star pretended to be a Special Olympics participant.

In “Champions,” Harrelson starred as Marcus, a basketball coach who wanted to advance to the big leagues. After clashing

with his friend and fellow coach Phil (Ernie Hudson) on the court, Marcus was caught driving drunk and assigned 90 days of community service coaching a basketball team with intellectual disabilities. He befriended Johnny (Kevin Iannucci), a player whose sister Alex (Kaitlin Olson) became involved with Marcus. Over time, the team christened themselves “The Friends.”

Sitting through “Champions” felt like being stuck in the world’s longest traffic jam. Woody Harrelson has a great reputation as a film star and his work in the “Hunger Games” franchise was amazing, but the actor floundered in this sports comedy. His onscreen relationship with Alex had touching moments, especially when he went to

her home for dinner to meet her mother. Along the way, Marcus made some serious ethical choices about what direction his life should take.

“Champions” had a good heart, but its weak legs can’t keep the story moving. With director Bobby Farrelly behind the camera, there’s usually a mixture of heartwarming comedy and projectile vomiting. Matt Cook did a nice job as assistant coach Sonny, but his role in the film didn’t allow his character room to mature.

I also wondered if it was necessary for almost all members of “The Friends” to have potty mouths.

“Champions” did have nice moments, though. Marcus originally thought his 90day sentence was a punishment, but his team changed his attitudes about differently abled people. The maturing relationship between Alex and Marcus was a nice touch, but some members of “The Friends” don’t get enough screen time to explore their backstories. Johnny had a nice subplot about wanting to live away from home, but the other characters didn’t get the same chance to grow.

“Champions,” rated PG-13 for “Crude, Sexual References and Strong Language,” opens in theaters on March 10.

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.

“Champions” photo courtesy Gold Circle Films

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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, have mercy on 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. L.M.

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, have mercy on 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. K.B.

Moore on Life: Friday night fights

It was a typical Friday night at our place. That’s when the action starts around here and by action, I mean inaction.

Of course, it was date night so my husband and I changed into our fancy evening wear: he in his baggy sweats and I in my flannels. We grabbed our blankies and pillows and a heaping bowl of ice cream each and settled in for a night of intellectual discussion, which consisted of debating over what program to watch on TV.

Problems arose right away since there were bajillions of choices to make. We tried to narrow it down using logic. First, which provider do we start with: Netflix, Amazon, Hulu or HBO. After ten minutes and much debate we used logic and decided to go alphabetically; Amazon it was.

Next, we had a lengthy argument over which show. Things got real testy and our ice cream melted down to chunky pudding.

I thought we should watch a cooking show, “The Battle of the Skillets” sounded competitive and fun.

He sneered and suggested a documentary about a psychopathic killer who ate his victims.

I reminded him that I already opted for a cooking program and was sneered at. I then recommended a comedy because I could have used a good laugh.

He proposed a news show and said the way our country was being run was a huge laughing matter.

I scrapped his idea and soon we both decided to watch a movie – progress. Our ice cream was soupy.

We then scrolled through numerous genres: thriller,

By Cindy Moore CROSSWORD: THE OSCARS

romance, horror, animated, suspense and new releases. From there, we debated the merits of each and finally used logic to go alphabetically; animated…nope! We used reverse logic and started at the end of the alphabet; thriller it was.

From there we combed through dozens of titles and shouted out instructive comments for each: “Seen it.” “Sounds boring.” “Dumb plot.” “Nope!” “Hate that actor.”

We finally hit upon several we thought would interest us. Of course, we had to watch trailers for each one.

The clock struck midnight when we agreed on a movie. We used straws to suck up our liquified ice cream as the movie credits started.

Five minutes into the show we both fell soundly asleep snoring like chainsaws. Another romantic date night for the books.

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.

LIFESTYLE: How to host a college hoops watch party

It’s tournament time, and that’s the perfect reason to gather with your fellow fans and watch both the top-seeded teams and Cinderella stories shoot their way to the top.

Get ready to host this season’s most memorable college basketball watch party with these tips:

Show your colors: Get your house game ready and show your team spirit by decorating in the colors of the team you’ll be cheering to victory. Since the tournament spans multiple rounds, you don’t need to go all out; just grab some simple decorations like streamers, balloons and disposable tablecloths to add some energy. If you’ll have guests cheering on both sides of the court, mix and match your decor and let guests pick their plate and cup color to root for their favorite team.

Break out the brackets: The entire tournament hinges on brackets, so be sure your guests have a chance to fill out their own bracket to predict the winning teams. You can find printable versions online and make copies for everyone. For a little extra fun, have everyone chip in a set amount to play, and the person who predicts the most winning teams wins the pot.

Take a seat: When the game is underway, gathering everyone around the screen can get crowded. Make

sure everyone is comfortable by offering additional seating. You can use stools, chairs from other rooms and even folding chairs or camping chairs if you need to create more space. If you need to resort to floor space for seating, make it extra comfy with some pillows or blankets for padding.

Multiply the screen time: Chances are high your guests will scatter throughout your home, spilling out of the living room into your kitchen and dining spaces, or maybe even outdoors. Set up extra screens to show the game in multiple rooms, whether that’s extra TVs, monitors or laptops. That way, even if someone steps away from the main screen, he or she won’t miss any of the excitement.

Make snacks a slam dunk: Every party needs a menu, but you can keep it simple for a watch party. Guests typically want quick bites they can grab during timeouts and commercial breaks, so stick to finger foods and apps guests can self-serve quickly. Wings are a party staple, and chips and dip are always a hit. Be sure to offer some indulgent options, as well as foods for those who have special dietary needs. You can also make your food game easier by asking everyone to bring a dish to share instead of taking it all on yourself.

Find more entertaining tips and advice at eLivingtoday.com.

ACROSS

1. Adam and Eve’s son

5. Blink of an eye, for short

8. Tricep location

11. Laughing on the inside, in text

12. ____ bowl, frozen dish

13. Bid on a house, e.g.

15. Show off

16. Actor’s role

17. Nostrils

18. *”Everything Everywhere All At Once” or “The Fablemans” nominee

20. Trampled

21. Humpty without t

22. *Cate Blanchett’s 6-time nominated movie

23. Store in a silo

26. Tiny crustacean

30. Chop off

31. Not digital

34. Cut with a beam

35. Empty spaces

37. Not good

38. Relating to pond scum

39. Capri or Catalina

40. Lament

42. ____ Khan

43. Full event

45. *He’s won the most academy awards

47. Jump key

48. Not yes, nor no

50. Male sibs

52. *”The Fablemans” composer John ____, 53-time nominee

55. Resin-producing tree

56. Call to Mary

57. Get-out-of-jail money

59. Bye, in Castile

60. Ages and ages

61. Competitive advantage

62. Appetite

63. Farm female 64. Fender-bender damage

DOWN

1. Key often used with ctrl

2. Gold rush, e.g.

3. Purse with notions

4. Leechee, alt. sp.

5. Dandruff locale

6. This bird gets the worm?

7. Give a traffic ticket

8. Big do

9. Cattail, e.g.

10. *”____ Harris Goes to Paris,” Best Costume Design nominee

12. Tarzan and such

13. Like beer at a kegger (2 words)

14. *”The Banshees of Inisherin” nominee

19. Polynesian dance, pl.

22. Dress like Ancient Greeks

23. *Austin Butler’s gyrating character 24. Gallows loop

25. Oil crisis

26. *Last year’s Best Picture winner

27. Like a Druid, e.g.

28. Missouri River tributary

29. Flying nuisance

32. Lend a hand in crime

33. Order’s partner

36. *”Guillermo ____ ____’s Pinocchio”

38. “My wife can vouch for me,” e.g.

40. Address to a boy, slangily

41. Bucolics

44. Desert traveler’s hope 46. Bikini Bottom locale 48. Variation of meow 49. Skirt shape 50. Past tense of bid 51. Roman remain, e.g. 52. Cry of glee 53. Like a full-fledged Mafia man 54. Leo or Libra 55. Jared’s competitor 58. Allow