Metro-east calendar: Where to take your sweetheart and other weekend fun
Noon Thursday, Feb. 13, is the deadline to appear in next week’s What’s Happening. We must receive your event in writing with a contact phone number for questions. Due to the large number of submissions, events may run only one time in print, will be edited and appear in the week before the event date.
Email: lifestyle@bnd.com. Mail to: Lifestyle, Belleville News-Democrat, P.O. Box 427, Belleville, IL 62222-0427. Questions, call Jennifer Green at 618-239-2643.
Events
▪ Chair Yoga — 11 a.m. - noon Thursdays. AgeSmart, 801 W. State St., O’Fallon. Classes are open to anyone who is interested. No yoga experience necessary. Instructor: Liana Ables. Cost: $5 per visit. No reservation required. 618-222-2561.
▪ Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center Blood Drive — 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14. Gibault Catholic High School, 501 Columbia Ave., Waterloo. bloodcenterimpact.org
▪ Exhibition: ‘Benjamin Pierce: Fairgrounds’ — Noon to 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14. The Sheldon Art Galleries, 3648 Washington Blvd., St. Louis. A self-described muralist, painter, designer and draftsman, Benjamin Pierce’s drawings and paintings bring to life creatures and characters that he creates by mixing elements of daydreams with aspects of the divided world around him. As an artist, Pierce hopes to shine a light on prejudices and misconceptions, empowering the powerless, and serving as a voice of unity. Opening reception 5-7 p.m. Admission is free. Exhibit open through April 11. For gallery hours and other information: TheSheldon.org
▪ Exhibition: ‘Mississippi River Views’ — Noon to 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14. The Sheldon Art Galleries, 3648 Washington Blvd., St. Louis. The exhibit examines the role the Mississippi River plays in our culture, history and environment, and includes work from Jennifer Colten’s “American Bottom,” Nashville photographer John Guider’s “The River Inside,” the late John Hilgert’s “Bottomland,” and an installation by Megan Singleton. The exhibit is organized to coincide with the Missouri History Museum’s Mighty Mississippi exhibition, running through April 18, 2021. Opening reception 5-7 p.m. Admission is free. Exhibit open through April 11. For gallery hours and other information: TheSheldon.org
▪ Exhibition: ‘Principal Perspectives: The Work of Phil Durham’ — Noon to 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14. The Sheldon Art Galleries, 3648 Washington Blvd., St. Louis. This survey of work by St. Louis-based architect Phil Durham pays tribute to the award-winning designer, who passed away in September 2018. The exhibit is co-organized with Washington University Libraries. A companion exhibition, “Section and Design: The Work of Phil Durham,” is on display at Washington University’s John M. Olin Library through July 6. Opening reception 5-7 p.m. Admission is free. Exhibit open through April 11. For gallery hours and other information: TheSheldon.org
▪ Philip Kennicott: ‘Counterpoint: A Memoir of Back and Mourning’ — 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14. Webster University, Sverdrup Room 101, 470 E. Lockwood, St. Louis. Webster University presents Pulitzer-Prize-winning culture critic for the Washington Post and a former Post-Dispatch writer and editor, Philip Kennicott, who will discuss his memoir on grief and Bach, “Counterpoint.” Parking available in garage on Garden Ave. For information: wrosenbl@webster.edu
▪ 8th annual Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day — 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15. Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Engineering Building, Edwardsville. Hosted by the Society of Women Engineers. For girls from grades 5-8. Participants will complete a total of five activities, covering the fields of civil, mechanical, electrical, industrial and computer science. Registration is $20 and covers activities, lunch and a T-shirt. For information: swesiue@gmail.com or facebook.com/swesiue
▪ Great Backyard Bird Count Training Event — 8:30-10:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 15. Gateway Arch park grounds, meet at the Arch’s west entrance plaza, St. Louis. Participants of all ages are invited to take part in the training, which begins with a free, guided bird hike along the Gateway Arch park grounds. Afterwards, Audubon and NPS staff will lead a training on participating in this global citizen science count and how to correctly log birds online. Participants will also discover what birds are common in the St. Louis region at this time, and how you can attract those birds to your backyard. Free and open to all ages. 314-655-1615 or erin_hilligoss-volkmann@nps.gov
▪ Book Sale — 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Feb. 15. Tri-Township Library, 209 S. Main St., Troy. Books, magazines, puzzles, games, DVD and CD donations accepted during regular library hours or on day of the sale. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library. During inclement weather, please call the Tri-Township Library at 618-667-2133 after 9 a.m. to see if book sale is canceled.
▪ Belleville Flea Market — 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 16. Belle-Clair Fairgrounds, 200 S. Belt E., Belleville. Southern Illinois’ premier indoor/outdoor market with more than 600 tables and 300-400 vendors selling antiques, collectibles, merchandise — old and new. Parking $3. Handicapped accessible. Free admission. bcfairgrounds.net
▪ Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center Blood Drive — 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15. Roberts Motors, 4350 N. Alby St., Alton. bloodcenterimpact.org
▪ Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center Blood Drive — 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15. Walgreens, 6607 Illinois 162, Maryville. bloodcenterimpact.org
▪ Exhibit: ‘Tails of Friendship’ — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15, and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 16. The Field House Museum, 634 S. Broadway, St. Louis. Celebrate the remarkable story of pet ownership since the ancient era, the Humane Society’s protection of countless animals since 1870, and pet-themed toys from the Field House Collection. Admission: $10 adults, $9 AAA Members, $5 children ages 7-16, 6 and under free. For museum hours and other information: fieldhousemuseum.org
▪ African American Women’s Suffrage — 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15. Education Classroom at the Gateway Arch (located on lower level of Arch Visitor Center), 11 N. Fourth St., St. Louis. Lynne Jackson is a direct descendant of Dred and Harriet Scott – who famously sued for their freedom from slavery at the Old Courthouse, prior to the Civil War — and the founder and president of the Dred Scott Heritage Foundation. She will present the history of civil rights and African American women’s suffrage, and visitors will learn how the past connects the present, and how women and African Americans fought their right to vote in St. Louis. Free and open to the public. gatewayarch.com
▪ St. Joseph Men’s Club annual Chicken & Beer Dance — 7-11 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15. Parish Center, 6 N. Alton St., Freeburg. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Chicken served at 8 p.m. Bring your own side dishes. Oral auction at 9:15 p.m. featuring several sets of St. Louis Cardinals tickets, including opening day. Live music by Boulderdash. Admission is $20 per person or $35 per couple in advance/$40 at the door. Must be 21. IDs will be checked. Reservations: 618-539-3925 or 618-363-8067.
▪ Black History Month Sermon & Lecture Series: White Privilege/Black Pride – A Biblical Perspective — 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 16. New Life in Christ Church, 689 Scott Troy Road, O’Fallon. Featuring the Rev. Dr. Starsky Wilson, President & CEO of the Deaconess Foundation, Board Chair for the National Committee for Responsive Philanthropy and former Co-Chairman of the Ferguson Commission, an independent 16-member body appointed to address the social and economic conditions highlighted by protests following the shooting death of Michael Brown. 618-632-6542 or https://www.nlicic.org/
▪ Maryville Parks & Recreation Discovery Series: Art & Science of Brewing & Distilling — 1-3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 16. Maryville Community Center, 500 E. Division St., Maryville. Presented by Derik Reiser, Old Herald Brewery & Distillery, Collinsville. Discover brewing basics of both beer and spirits. Learn about different styles of beer and how hops, malt, yeast and fermentation impact taste. Free. 618-772-8555 or vil.maryville.il.us
▪ Family Sunday: Mix It Up! — 1-4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 16. Saint Louis Art Museum, One Fine Arts Drive, St. Louis. A free, family-friendly afternoon of hands-on art activities and a lively, 30-minute family tour through the galleries. Turn your idea of art on its head. Inspired by the exhibition “The Shape of Abstraction: Selections from the Ollie Collection,” experiment with traditional materials in unexpected ways. The family tour leaves at 2:30 p.m.; sign up is required and available only on-site beginning at 1 p.m. in Grigg Gallery. slam.org
▪ Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center Blood Drive — 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, Feb. 17. Anderson Hospital Platelet Drive, 6800 State Route 162, Maryville. bloodcenterimpact.org
▪ Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center Blood Drive — 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Feb. 17. SSM Health Good Samaritan Hospital - Mount Vernon, #1 Good Samaritan Way, Mount Vernon. bloodcenterimpact.org
▪ Prez Day All Day Skate — 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Feb. 17. Fun Spot Skating, 1400 West Blvd., Belleville. Admission: $12 plus skate rental. Includes all-you-can-eat pizza/soda, all day fun, all day long. No passes, coupons or Groupons. 618-234-4502.
▪ River Styx Reading Series presents: Beth Mead, Natalie Scenters-Zapico & Alan Shapiro — 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 17. High Low, 3301 Washington Ave., St. Louis. River Styx cultivates the literary arts in St. Louis and beyond through its magazine and community programs.The River Styx Reading Series is their main recurring event during the fall, winter, and spring, in which they invite both local and national acclaimed writers to read their work for a St. Louis audience. Readings start at 7 p.m. on the third Monday of the month. $5 general admission. $4 students and seniors. This event is presented by River Styx. For more information, please visit riverstyx.org.
▪ Free Sunrise Yoga at the Gateway Arch — 7 a.m. Tuesdays. Gateway Arch Visitor Center, 11 N. Fourth St., St. Louis, located just inside the west entrance of the Arch facility. YogaBuzz instructors lead participants through a 45-minute class to relaxing music. All experience levels are welcome. Yoga is free and open to the public. No RSVP required. facebook.com/events/496774914500457
▪ Suds of Love — 5-8 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 18. Belleville East Laundromat, 1008 Carlyle Ave., Belleville. Free and open to individuals or families who need assistance accessing laundry services. Participants are eligible to use up to two standard capacity machines per family or individual or one high capacity machine at no cost to them. Detergent and fabric softener are available if needed, or participants can bring their own. 618-212-4379 or facebook.com/events/2622274764537106
▪ The Eugene B. Redmond Writers Club annual Black History Month Celebration — 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 18. East St. Louis Education Campus of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, Building B cafeteria, 601 J.R. Thompson Drive, East St. Louis. Black poets explore slavery’s origins in “From Black Kingdoms to Black Shackles to Black Self-Reliance.” Free and family-friendly. 618-650-3991 or eredmon@siue.edu.
▪ Black History Month Sermon & Lecture Series: White Privilege/Black Pride – A Biblical Perspective — 7 p.m. Wednesday. Feb. 19. New Life in Christ Church, 689 Scott Troy Road, O’Fallon. Featuring Minister Geoffrey Dudley II, Young Adult Pastor. 618-632-6542 or https://www.nlicic.org/
▪ Charles Finch: ‘The Last Passenger’ — 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 19. St. Louis County Library HQ, 1640 S. Lindbergh, St. Louis. St. Louis County Library presents bestselling author Charles Finch who will sign and discuss his new book “The Last Passenger.” 314-994-3300.
▪ Progresswomen presents: ‘We Refuse to Be Silent’ — 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 20. Ethical Society of St. Louis, 9001 Clayton Road, St. Louis. An event on democracy, gun violence and abortion. Moderated by Kimberly Norwood, Henry H. Oberschelp, Professor, Washington University School of Law. Featuring authors Charles Jaco, Sarah Kendzior and Jonathan M. Metzl. Meet the authors. Book signing after the program. Tickets: $75 for program, signed copies of both books, preferred front-row reserved seating; $25 program only; $10 students with school ID. left-bank.com
▪ Mardi Gras Party — 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22. Quail Club, 8303 Concordia Church Road, Belleville. Doors open at 6 p.m. Cajun buffet starts at 7 p.m. Five drink tickets. Tickets available at the bar or call Quail Club at 618-476-1024 or 618-234-3719.
▪ Rescuers for Rescue Chili Cook Off & Home Beer Sampling — 1-4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 23. Knights of Columbus, 7132 Marine Road, Edwardsville. Several local fire and police departments will compete for bragging rights in the chili cook off, including Edwardsville Police Department, Madison County Animal Care and Control, Highland VFW, and Collinsville Police Department. East Side Brewers home brewing club will have approximately 15 home brewers providing samples of their beer. Both categories will award a people’s choice winner. Attendees will also be able to enjoy various raffles and MEHS merchandise that will be available to purchase. Tickets are $20 for beer-only tasting, $15 for chili tasting, and $30 for both. Benefits Metro East Humane Society. mehs.org
▪ Gentleman of Vision — 7:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 24. SWIC Belleville Campus Main Complex Varsity Gym, 2500 Carlyle Ave., Belleville. Rescheduled from Wednesday, Feb. 12. Award-winning step team Gentleman of Vision will perform during halftime of the SWIC men’s basketball game. Watch and listen to a live performance of percussive dance in which the performer’s entire body is used as an instrument to produce complex rhythms and sounds through a mixture of footsteps, spoken word and hand claps. Tickets are free with a SWIC student ID, $2 for youth and $5 for adults and must be purchased at the event. 618-235-2700 ext. 5205.
▪ Mascoutah Tuesday Woman’s Club Fine Wine and Craft Beer Tasting ‘A Night at the Oscars’ — 6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 29. AG Building, Scheve Park, 905 Park Drive, Mascoutah. Doors open at 6 p.m. Tastings provided by Karen Droste, All Mart. Entertainment by Austin Ernst. Heavy appetizers included. Cost: $20 per person in advance, $25 at the door. Tickets available at Daubers, Mascoutah Library and Flowers & Balloons. For questions or to reserve tables of eight: 618-580-5395.
Club News
▪ PSOP Book Club — 10 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 13. PSOP, 201 N. Church St., Belleville. “Two Old Women” by Velma Wallis. Discussion leader: Denise Secrest.
▪ Chicks with Sticks — 3-4:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 13. Troy United Methodist Church, Room 241, 407 Edwardsville Road, Troy. Knit and crochet items for different charities and for fellowship. 618-667-7501.
▪ Stitchin’ in the Stacks — 2-4 p.m. Fridays. Glen Carbon Centennial Library, 198 S. Main, Glen Carbon. If you like to knit, crochet or embroider, gather and socialize with others who share your interest and pick up a few tips and tricks as you work your own creations. Bring your supplies. Self-directed program; no instructor. 618-288-1212 or glencarbonlibrary.org
▪ Dupo Coin Club — 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 17. Sugar Loaf Township Community Building, 240 S. Fifth St., Dupo. Please use side entrance. Coffee and doughnuts served. Member auction. All are welcome. 618-407-1994.
▪ Optimist Club of Belleville — Noon Tuesdays. Bellecourt Place, 120 N. Jackson St., Belleville. Luncheon and program. Guests and new members always welcome.
▪ GriefShare Seminar/Support Group — 2-3:30 p.m. Tuesdays. Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Conference Room, lower level, 1300 Beltline Road, Collinsville. GriefShare is a helpful, encouraging seminar for people grieving the death of a loved one. The seminar features practical suggestions and reassurance through video interviews with counselors, grief experts and others who have experienced the death of a loved one. For information or registration: 618-344-3151 or lcookparishnurse@charter.net
▪ Parents Without Partners — 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 18. Bamboo Valley, 653 Carlyle Ave., Belleville. Orientation for prospective members at 6:30 p.m. For information or directions: 618-447-6844.
▪ Marine Unit of Home and Community Educations Association — 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 18. Marine Senior Citizens Building, 101 W. Silver St., Marine. Lesson for Living: Gateway to Gut Health, given by Mary Gross and Beverly White. Hostesses are Connie Grapperhaus and Beverly White.
▪ Parents of Addicted Loved Ones — 7-8:30 p.m. Tuesdays. Breese Activity Center, 419 S, Clinton St., Breese. The PAL group provides education, support and hope to family members and loved ones of someone who has an addiction of substance use disorder. 618-567-6095 or palgroup.org
▪ O’Fallon Sunrise Rotary Meeting — 6:45 a.m. Wednesdays. O’Fallon Township Building, 801 E. State St., O’Fallon. ofallonsunriserotary.org
▪ Senior Services Plus, Inc. Memory Café — 1:30-3 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 19. Senior Services Plus, 2603 N. Rodgers Ave., Alton. Memory problems should not keep you at home. Join for an afternoon of conversation and activities to start your day off right. Led by a professional who understands the challenges memory loss causes, both for the person directly and their loved ones. Registration is requested. 618-465-3298, ext. 144 or jmorgan@seniorservicesplus.org. seniorservicesplus.org
▪ American Association of University Women — 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 19. 7400 Claymont Court, Apt. #1, Belleville. Program: Writing Your Memoirs. Guest speaker: Dee Zopp.
Games
▪ Bridge — 11:45 a.m. Thursdays. Collinsville Senior Center, 420 E. Main St., Collinsville. To participate, must have played bridge before. 618-310-1289.
▪ Euchre Tournament — 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14. Everyone welcome. Smithton Senior Center, 711 S. Main, Smithton. 618-233-3370.
▪ Friends of Belleville Public Library Trivia Night — 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15. Althoff High Heritage Hall, W. Main St. and Frank Scott Parkway, Belleville. Doors open at 6 p.m. Emcee: Roger Schlueter. Cash prizes, mulligans. Bring your own snacks. Soda for purchase; no alcohol will be sold. Cost: $12 per person. Six to eight players per table. Reservations: 618-234-7169 or mgmurf@yahoo.com
▪ Highland VFW Auxiliary Euchre Tournament — 1 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 16. Highland VFW, 1900 VFW Road, Highland. Admission is $5. There will be a cash payout and a 50/50 drawing. Proceeds help our veterans.
▪ Althoff Catholic Fathers & Friends’ Bingo — 7-10 p.m. Mondays. CK & L of I Country Club, 2800 N. Illinois St., Swansea.
▪ Bridge — 11:45 a.m. Tuesdays. Senior Center, 10025 Bunkum Road, Fairview Heights. Sponsored by Caseyville Township. 618-310-1289.
▪ Xtreme Bar Bingo — 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 18. KC Hall, 402 E. U.S. 50, O’Fallon. No cost, no cover bingo consisting of nine games. Players could win prizes such as a 50-inch TV, iPad, $100 cash, St. Louis Cardinals tickets and more. facebook.com/events/1321610498021685
▪ Cribbage Club — 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays. 1 Columbus Plaza, KC Club, Collinsville. Nine games played against nine different opponents. Yvonne Bright 618-344-1521 or John Bilski 618-398-1029.
▪ Family Game Night — 4-7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 19. New Athens District Library, 201 N. Van Buren St., New Athens. For all ages. Take your pick of any game set up throughout the library and enjoy time with your family. newathenslibrary.org
▪ Euchre Tournament — 7 p.m. Wednesdays. Agriculture Building, Scheve Park, Sixth Street and Park Drive, Mascoutah. 618-401-8858.
▪ Movie Trivia Night with the Collinsville Middle School Band — 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21. Caseyville Community Center, 909 S. Main St., Caseyville. Doors open at 6 p.m. Cash prizes, silent auction, 50/50 raffle. Bring your own snacks and beverages. Cost: $100 for a table of 10 or less. Price increases after Friday, Feb. 14. To reserve a table: joyce.votava@gmail.com or melissa@sweitzer.cc
▪ Madison County Child Advocacy Center 15th annual Trivia Night and Silent Auction — 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 29. Madison County Firemen’s Hall, 9510 Collinsville Road, Collinsville. Doors open at 6 p.m. Silent auction items, raffles, cash prizes and more. Tables of eight available for $140. After Feb. 21, price increases to $175 per table of eight. To register: madco-cac.org
▪ Trivia Go-Go — 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 29. Bluff Grange, 8567 Illinois 163, Millstadt. Doors open at 6 p.m. Decorate your table and wear your ‘60s grooviest. Prizes for the best table and best dressed guy or gal. Silent auction, 50/50 raffle, booze basket raffle, attendance prizes. Bring your own snack and drinks. Cost: $15 per person, eight per table. No reservations needed. To reserve a table or for information: 618-363-3060. facebook.com/events/2683195445105971
Theater/Concerts
▪ Singer/Songwriter Thursday at The Abbey — 7-10 p.m. Thursdays. The Abbey, 5801 W. Main St., Belleville. Enjoy live music at The Abbey every Thursday night. thebellevilleabbey.com
▪ Valentine’s Day Comedy Massacre — 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14. American Legion, 109 N. Penn St., O’Fallon. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Prime rib dinner at 7 p.m. Live comedy. Hosted by Ashley Montes. Featuring Cori Stewart, Matthew Barnes and Rich Braun. Tickets are $20 per person. Presented by the Women of the Moose. For tickets call 618-406-1092.
▪ ComedySportz Match — 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14, and Saturday, Feb. 15. CSz St. Louis, 524 S. Main St., St. Charles, Missouri. Outrageously funny improv played like a sport. A perfect combo of funny and sports creating an explosion of laughter and competition on stage. Tickets available at the door on online at cszstlouis.com/tickets. facebook.com/events/515189102680279
▪ The Redemptions — 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15. Nazarene Community Theatre, 400 N. Central Ave., Roxana. A love offering will be taken. Suggested donation of $7 per person. Come early for good seating. 618-616-2815 or stcadle1@aol.com
▪ Chamber Music Serenade — 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15. Union United Methodist Church, 721 E. Main St., Belleville. Ivan Numerov, Russian virtuoso violist, and Barbra Duvall Baker, Philharmonic principal flutist, are featured in this delightful evening featuring the myriad colors drawn from the orchestra. Cost: $20 general admission, $18 senior/military, youth free. For reservations: 618-235-5600 or bellevillephilharmonic.org
▪ Jazz at the Gaslight: Big Mike Aguirre and The Blu City All Stars — 7:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 17. Gaslight Theater, 358 N. Boyle Ave., St. Louis. Mardi Gras Special: Tickets $10 and FREE beans & rice. Tickets available via Ticketmaster.com, by phone at 800-982-2787 or the Theater box office one hour before the show. Gaslighttheater.net
▪ Blue Mondays at the Gaslight: Klaus Bank and Friends — 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 18. Gaslight Theater, 358 N. Boyle Ave., St. Louis. Tickets are $15 and available via Ticketmaster.com, by phone at 800-982-2787 or the Theater box office one hour before the show. gaslighttheater.net
▪ St. Paul Fine Arts Series: Jazz Winds of Patagonia Trio — 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 20. St. Paul UCC, 115 W. B St., Belleville. The trio includes Bill Molenhof, percussion, Maria Guala, piano & voice and Carl Kominski, bass. Bill and wife, Maria, currently reside in Argentina. Their music has been described as a vibrant kaleidoscope of musical impressions from North and South America. There is no charge; however, a free will offering will be received. 618-233-3303.
▪ Zombie Love Murder Mystery Dinner — 6:30-9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21. Grafton Winery & Brewhaus, 300 W. Main St., Grafton. The Murder Mystery Dinner Theater that thinks outside of the coffin. This show has it all — High drama! Comedy! A love story … and of course, zombies! Guests can play a part in the show or just sit back and laugh out loud. Tickets include the show, the lodge’s famous fried chicken dinner buffet, taxes and gratuity. Tickets are $45 per person and can be purchased online or by calling Arielle at 618-786-2331, extension 338.
▪ An Evening with Kathy Mattea — 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21. The Sheldon Concert Hall, 3648 Washington Blvd., St. Louis. Singer-songwriter Kathy Mattea is one of today’s most honored Americana artists, with two Grammy wins, four Country Music Association Awards, four #1 country singles, and five gold albums to her credit. Best known for the enduring country hit, “Eighteen Wheels and Dozen Roses,” Mattea draws inspiration from her Appalachian roots, presenting a mix of folk, bluegrass, Celtic, pop and country music in a warm, heartfelt performance. Tickets start at $35. TheSheldon.org
▪ Saint Louis Philharmonic Orchestra — 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21. J. Scheidegger Center for the Arts at Lindenwood University, 2300 W. Clay St., St. Charles, Missouri. Performance conducted by Robert Hart Baker. Tickets $15-30. 314-421-3600. stlphilharmonic.org
▪ A Night to Remember with Melba Mooire and Howard Hewett — 8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22. The Sheldon Concert Hall, 3648 Washington Blvd., St. Louis. Melba Moore is a prolific, five-octave singer and award winning actress. Broadway, contemporary soul/R&B, pop, rock, jazz, gospel and classical – Melba Moore was destined to be a star! Howard Hewett is one of the most gifted vocalists in the Post-Marvin Gaye era of pop R&B. He is an audience favorite, as he is constantly touring and intermittently releasing new music. Tickets start at $60. TheSheldon.org
Food
▪ Waterloo VFW Fish Fry — 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Fridays. Metzger Crook Post 6504, 406 Veterans Drive, Waterloo. Sold by the pound, sandwich or plate. Cod, catfish, walleye, salmon and shrimp. Carry-outs. 618-939-7999.
▪ Millstadt Fish Fry and Jam Session — 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Fridays, Millstadt VFW Post, 200 Veterans Drive, Millstadt. 618-476-1180.
▪ Swansea Fish Stand – 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. 216 Service St., Swansea. Cod, walleye, catfish, shrimp and more. Saturday: fried chicken. 618-222-7171.
▪ Collinsville Fish Fry — 3-8 p.m. Fridays, Collinsville American Legion, 1022 Vandalia St., Collinsville. North Atlantic cod, whole catfish, sides, desserts. 618-345-2508.
▪ Caseyville Fish Fry — 4-7 p.m. Fridays, Caseyville VFW Post 1117, 415 N. Long, Caseyville. Fish plates, desserts, sandwiches, burgers and more. Bingo at 7 p.m.
▪ St. Joseph Church Fish Bake & Fry — 4-7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14. St. Joseph’s Parish Center, 6 N. Alton St., Freeburg. Baked cod, fried cod loins (plate, sandwich or pound), shrimp, grilled cheese, spaghetti, baked potato, green beans, fries, homemade slaw, mac and cheese, stewed tomatoes, desserts and refreshments. Eat-in or carry-out. 618-539-4720.
▪ Troy VFW Fish Fry — 4-7 p.m. Fridays. Troy VFW Post 976 and Auxiliary, 123-A W. Market St., Troy. Cod, catfish, jack salmon, baked fish, chicken strips, shrimp. Dine in or carry out. 618-667-8387.
▪ Collinsville Fish Fry — 4-7:30 p.m. Fridays. Knights of Columbus Hall, 1 Columbus Plaza, Collinsville. Eat in or carry out. Fried/baked cod, catfish, sides. 618-345-1492.
▪ Friday Fish Fry — 4-8 p.m. Fridays. Millstadt Sportsmen’s Club, 4915 Schmidt Lane, Millstadt. Cod, shrimp, walleye, salmon patties, baked fish, desserts. Carry-out available. 618-476-1891.
▪ Highland Fish Fry — 4-7:30 p.m. Fridays. VFW Post 5694, 1900 VFW Road, Highland. Eat in or carry out. 618-654-6367.
▪ O’Fallon Fish Fry — 4-8 p.m. Fridays. Knights of Columbus Hall, 402 E. U.S. 50, O’Fallon. Cod and tilapia, hamburgers, hot dogs, pork steaks, pizza and additional side dishes. Eat in or carry out. Now accepting credit cards. 618-632-6229.
▪ Aviston Legion Fish Fry — 4:30-7 p.m. Fridays. American Legion Post 1239, 601 S. Clinton, Aviston. Fried and baked cod, catfish, shrimp, chicken strips, sides. Eat in or carry out. 618-228-7311 or avistonlegion.com
▪ Mascoutah Fish Fry — 5-8 p.m. Fridays. Mascoutah VFW Post 7682, 620 Donaphan St., Mascoutah. Dine in or carry out. 618-566-2288.
▪ O’Fallon Fish and Chicken Fry — 5-8 p.m. Fridays. O’Fallon American Legion, 109 N. Penn, O’Fallon. Carry-outs available. 618-632-8879.
▪ Shiloh Fish Fry — 5-8 p.m. Fridays. 100 Eagle Drive, Shiloh. Cod, walleye, catfish, shrimp, chicken wings. Eat in or carry out. Auxiliary bake sale for charity. 618-624-5412.
▪ The Orchards Fish Fry — 5-9 p.m. Fridays. The Orchards Golf Club, 1499 Golf Course Drive, Belleville. Buffet features fresh cod and a great assortment of sides. Cod plates include two sides. Dinners always accompanied by great customer services from both the food and bar staff. Cost: buffet $15.95 per person, cod plate $10. Carry-out options available. 618-233-8921 or info@orchardsgolfclub.com
▪ Breakfast — 8-11 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 16. Albers American Legion, 600 N. Bertha St., Albers. Pork sausage, ham, pancakes, eggs, fried potatoes, biscuits and gravy. Cost: $9 adults, $4 child aged 6-12, 5 and under free. Carry-out available. Proceeds for Legion youth programs. 618-248-5505.
Reservations Required
▪ AARP Taxaide — 9 a.m. to noon Friday, Feb. 14. Glen Carbon Centennial Library, 198 S. Main, Glen Carbon. Appointments required. Call or come in to schedule. This service is intended for low- to moderate-income taxpayers of any age. You do not have to be a member of AARP. 618-288-1212 or glencarbonlibrary.org
▪ Exploring Acrylics — 1-2:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15. Glen Carbon Centennial Library, 198 S. Main, Glen Carbon. Instructed by Greta Pastorello. Acrylic paints have been a popular medium among artists ever since their introduction in the 1960s. The medium itself encourages experimentation and involvement, which is probably why artists subsequently develop their own unique technique to work with. Call library or check website for supply requirements. Registration required. 618-288-1212 or glencarbonlibrary.org
▪ Medicare Q&A — 6-7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 17. Glen Carbon Centennial Library, 198 S. Main, Glen Carbon. Presented by Jon Bergmann. Bring your questions on how to register and what is covered when you sign up for Medicare. Registration required. 618-288-1212 or glencarbonlibrary.org
▪ 8th annual Art of Soul — 7-9 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 20. Evangelical Church of Christ, Social Hall, 2520 Poplar St., Highland. Five-week event. Each workshop will offer instruction in a specific artistic medium. Cost: $40 for all five weeks, includes all materials. Presented by the Highland Arts Council. 618-558-0054 or highlandartscouncil.org/art-of-soul
▪ Your Journey Begins Here — 6-8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 28. Belleville Philharmonic Hall, 116 N. Jackson St., Belleville. Learn about the St. Clair County Historical Society’s bold new initiative to connect out community with its amazing story. Project debut at 7 p.m. Enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres and refreshments, pop-up exhibit, project debut and a new video on the society. Attire: business casual. RSVP by Feb. 14 to stcchs.curator@gmail.com or 618-234-0600.
▪ Take a Leap with Us: Leaps of Love 10-Year Anniversary Event — 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 29. Copper Dock Winery, 498 White Oaks Lane, Pocahontas. Doors open at 6 p.m. Ages 21 and older. Drinks available for purchase; appetizers provided. Silent auction, all-request Dueling Pianos. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. Purchase tickets by Saturday, Feb. 15 for a free entry into the all-inclusive Reflect Krystal three-night giveaway. Tickets can be purchased online at LeapsOfLove.org
▪ Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s College Student Personnel Administration Program’s Visit Day — 8:15 a.m. Friday, March 6. Evergreen Hall, SIUE, Edwardsville. Includes continental breakfast, lunch, networking reception and graduate assistant interview fair. For information or to pre-register: siue.edu/cspa-visit-day
Worth the Drive
▪ Masters of the Sky — All day Saturday, Feb. 15. National Great Rivers Museum, 2 Lock and Dam Way, Alton. Live raptor shows where visitors can learn all about the adaptations that make raptors special. Shows will cost $5 per adult and $3 per child and be limited to the first 85 participants. Showtimes are 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. with a special live eagle view at noon. This is a kid friendly event with crafts and activities set up through out the museum gallery. There will be a unique opportunity to view wild eagles and other birds from atop of the dam. visitalton.com
▪ Toy Train Show 2020 — 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15. Franklin Masonic Lodge, 1513 Washington Ave., Alton. Model train displays. Buy, sell and trade from dozens of displays. Seller tables are free. 618-372-4465 or visitalton.com