Metro-east calendar: Looking for a Mardi Gras event? Plenty of options available
Noon Thursday, Feb. 20, 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.
Mardi Gras festivities
▪ Bud Light Grand Parade — 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 22. Soulard neighborhood. Free event. https://stlmardigras.org/events/bud-light-grand-parade
▪ 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. Music by The Jorrells. Five drink tickets. Tickets available at the bar or call Quail Club at 618-476-1024 or 618-234-3719.
▪ 14th annual Wordi Gras — 11 a.m. to midnight Saturday, Feb. 22. Wall St., Worden. Come to the small town for a big party. Parade at 3 p.m. Live entertainment, food, fun merchandise and drinks. riversandroutes.com
▪ Mardi Gras-Fton: Mardi Gras Grafton Style — 2-9 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22. Grafton. Parade at 2 p.m. kicks off the festivities starting at Drifters, 1505 W. Main St. Wear your Mardi Gras best; there will be a prize for best costume. Food, music and specials at most of the surrounding businesses.
▪ Mardi Gras with Bob Row and Friends — 2-4:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 23. Moolah Shrine Center, Oasis Room, 12545 Fee Fee Road, St. Louis. Beads, candy, umbrellas, parades, lots of fun for all. Members $15, non-members $20. Students with valid ID are free. Tickets available at the door. Snack and beverages available. Use the lower parking area in the rear. stlouisjazzclub.org
Events
▪ Chair Yoga — 11 a.m. to 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.
▪ Special Film Screening — 5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 20. Glen Carbon Centennial Library, 198 S. Main, Glen Carbon. Join the League of Women Voters of Edwardsville Area & the Glen Carbon Library for a presentation of a 2004 film starring Hilary Swank as Alice Paul, an American feminist fighting in the suffrage movement. This year celebrate centennial anniversaries for the 19th Amendment to the Constitution and the League of Women Voters. 618-288-1212 or glencarbonlibrary.org
▪ Mardi Graz Party — 2:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21. Cambridge House, 844 Cambridge Drive, O’Fallon. A festive day of jazz music and food. Jay Dover Jazz will perform. Enjoy the music and dance. Refreshments will be served. Free and open to the public. 618-624-9000.
▪ Talking Abstraction: An Evening with Artists — 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21. Saint Louis Art Museum, The Farrell Auditorium, One Fine Arts Drive, Forest Park, St. Louis. Chief curator Rehema C. Barber and a panel of artists represented in “The Shape of Abstraction” discuss current dialogues surrounding abstract art as well as the artists’ sources of inspiration and the evolution of their studio practices. Admission $5, free for members. Advance tickets recommended. slam.org
▪ Square Dancing sponsored by Dandy Dancers — 7-9:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21. Caseyville Township Building, 10001 Bunkum Road, Fairview Heights. Caller Kati Garrison, no rounds. Theme: New Dancer Dance Club 50. 618-420-2567.
▪ Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center Blood Drive — 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22. Walgreens, 100 Admiral Weinel Blvd., Columbia. bloodcenterimpact.org
▪ Lewis & Clark Habitat for Humanity ReStore Grand Opening — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22. 1950 Vandalia, Collinsville. Featuring prizes, food, kid zone activities and an unique shopping experience. 618-223-1711 or LCReStore.org
▪ George Washington’s Birthday Ball — Noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22. Old Courthouse, 11 N. Fourth St., St. Louis. Celebrate President George Washington and his contributions to American history with an authentic birthday ball in his honor. Under the historic dome of the Old Courthouse, visitors will travel back in time, as music from 1860 will fill the courthouse rotunda and living history interpreters will lead the era’s most popular dances. Free and open to all ages. gatewayarch.com
▪ Black History Month Sermon & Lecture Series: White Privilege/Black Pride – A Biblical Perspective — 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 23. New Life in Christ Church, 689 Scott Troy Road, O’Fallon. Featuring Bishop Geoffrey V. Dudley Sr., senior pastor, New Life in Christ Church. 618-632-6542 or https://www.nlicic.org/
▪ Maryville Parks & Recreation Discovery Series: Wreath Making Basics — 1-3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 23. Maryville Community Center, 500 E. Division St., Maryville. Presented by Scott Waterman, Waterman’s Loft, Maryville. Learn how to put your ideas into a welcoming door wreath and different techniques and materials to use to make it. Free. 618-772-8555 or vil.maryville.il.us
▪ Family Sunday: Mix It Up! — 1-4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 23. 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
▪ 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. Benefitting Metro East Humane Society. mehs.org
▪ Polka Dance — 2:30-5:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 23. Polish Hall, 826 Greenwood St., Madison. Music by Larry Hallar (2 Star Final). Admission: $7. Sandwiches available for purchase. 314-867-7897 or folkfire.org/polka
▪ Steve Berry: ‘The Warsaw Protocol’ — 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 24. St. Louis County Library HQ, 1640 S. Lindbergh, St. Louis. In international bestselling political suspense author Steve Berry’s latest Cotton Malone adventure, one by one the seven precious relics of the Arma Christi, the weapons of Christ, are disappearing from sanctuaries across the world. 314-994-3300.
▪ Gentleman of Vision — 7:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 24. SWIC Belleville Campus Main Complex Varsity Gym, 2500 Carlyle Ave., Belleville. Rescheduled from 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.
▪ 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/496774911167124
▪ Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center Blood Drive — 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 25. The Journey Metro East Platelet Drive, 200 Dapron Drive, Belleville. bloodcenterimpact.org
▪ Presentation: Healthpro Heritage — 10 a.m. Tuesday. Feb. 25. Cambridge House, 844 Cambridge Blvd., O’Fallon. A representative from Healthpro Heritage (therapy group) will speak about blood pressure. Learn what the numbers mean when taking your blood pressure, practice how to take your vital signs and explore six lifestyle changes you can make to help manage your blood pressure. All are welcome. 618-624-9000.
▪ Seated Exercise Class — 11 a.m. to noon Tuesdays. AgeSmart, 801 W. State St., O’Fallon. Classes are free and open to the public. Cardio, strength training and balance will be the primary focus. Instructor: April Hausmann. If weather is inclement, check the website for cancellations. 618-222-2561 or AgeSmart.org
▪ Adam Smith: ‘At the End of Your Tether’ — 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 25. Left Bank Books, 399 N. Euclid Ave., St. Louis. Left Bank Books presents Eisner and Harvey nominee, Adam Smith, who will sign and discuss his new graphic novel “At The End Of Your Tether.” This event is free and open to the public, but proof of purchase of “At The End Of Your Tether” from Left Bank Books will be required to enter the signing line. left-bank.com
▪ Kevin Salwen: ‘The Suspect’ — 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 25. Central Reform Congregation, 5020 Waterman Blvd., St. Louis. Left Bank Books welcomes author, reporter, and award-winner, Kevin Salwen, who will sign and discuss his book “The Suspect.” left-bank.com
▪ Madagascar: From Crisis to Conservation Opportunity — 7-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 25. Saint Louis Zoo, Anheuser-Busch Theater, The Living World, 1 Government Drive, St. Louis. Primatologist and lemur specialist Andrea Baden describes her recent work with Madagascar’s critically endangered ruffed lemur (Genus Varecia), an important seed disperser and indicator of rainforest health, and shares how her results are being used to inform conservation practice in an effort to save this endemic island rainforest species. Free and open to all. Parking is free in the Zoo North lot or on the street in Forest Park. academyofsciencestl.org
▪ Collinsville Empty Bowl 2020 — 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26. Gateway Center, One Gateway Drive, Collinsville. Unique fundraiser to combat hunger. Benefits the Collinsville Food Pantry. For $10, enjoy a simple soup meal, symbolizing the plight of the hungry. More than 35 meat and meatless soups donated by restaurants and licensed vendors. Choose your favorite or taste them all (at no extra cost). Carry-outs and Carla’s homemade pies/cakes available. Big silent auction, full stage program, live music, patriotic salute, special guests and more. 618-406-4350.
▪ Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center Blood Drive — 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26. Imperial Manufacturing, 1450 Discovery Parkway, Alton. bloodcenterimpact.org
▪ Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center Blood Drive — 2:30-5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26. Governor French Academy, 219 W. Main St., Belleville. bloodcenterimpact.org
▪ West End Suds of Love — 5-8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26. Best Wash Laundromat, 6323 W. Main St., 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/594575184723011
▪ Edwardsville School District #7 Kindergarten Parent Information Night — 6:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday. Feb. 26. LeClaire Elementary, 801 Franklin Ave., Edwardsville. The second of six information meetings for parents/guardians of incoming kindergarten students. Students do not need to attend. Presentation to include overview of kindergarten experience, explanation of policies regarding half-day enrollment, general information about the school district, child’s kindergarten orientation and more. For additional meeting dates and locations (choose one that is convenient; all meetings are identical): http://ecusd7.org/district-information/registration
▪ Black History Month Sermon & Lecture Series: White Privilege/Black Pride – A Biblical Perspective — 7 p.m. Wednesday. Feb. 26. New Life in Christ Church, 689 Scott Troy Road, O’Fallon. Featuring the Rev. Dr. William Barber II, National Board Member of the NAACP and Senior Pastor, Greenleaf Christian Church, Goldsboro, North Carolina. Rev. Barber’s fight against social injustice has led many to compare him to late civil rights activist, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. 618-632-6542 or https://www.nlicic.org/
▪ Voter Services Event — 7-9 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26. Wildey Theater, 252 N. Main St., Edwardsville. Hosted by the Edwardsville Area League of Women Voters in conjunction with the Edwardsville Branch of the NAACP. Featuring primary candidates for the following offices: Madison County State’s Attorney; Madison County Board Member District 17; Appellate Court 5th District; 5th District Supreme Court; US Congressional District 12; US Congressional District 13, and US Congressional District 15. Meet the candidates before you vote.
▪ American Red Cross Blood Drive — 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 27. Southwestern Illinois College Red Bud Campus, Performing Arts Room, 500 W. South Fourth St., Red Bud. Donors must weight at least 110 pounds and be at least 17 years of age. New donors must bring ID. Presenting donors will receive light refreshments and a place to rest briefly following their donation. 618-235-2700, ext. 5561.
▪ Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center Blood Drive — Noon to 3 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 27. National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows, Conference Room, 442 S. DeMazenod Drive, Belleville. bloodcenterimpact.org
▪ CPR for Family and Friends — 9-11:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 29. Memorial’s Orthopedics and Neuroscience Center, first floor conference room, 4700 Memorial Drive, Belleville. Class video-guided by a St. Louis Children’s Hospital registered burse who uses the American Heart Association’s material, which includes a 65-page student manual. Designed for parents, grandparents and childcare providers. Must be 10 years or above to attend. Cost is $25. For information or to register: 314-454-5437, then press 3.
▪ Scholarship Fair — 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Feb. 29. University of Missouri-St. Louis, J.C. Penney Building, 1 University Drive, St. Louis. Opportunity for graduating students to meet with colleges and universities to discuss admission and scholarship opportunities. Students should bring multiple copies of transcripts, ACT/SAT scores, letters of recommendation, and essay titled “Why I want to attend college,” and a résumé. Register online at infinitescholar.org
▪ Belleville’s Got Talent — 5-9 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 29. Scottish Rite Masonic Bodies, 1549 Frank Scott Parkway West, Belleville. Belleville’s Got Talent will showcase a few local talents and restaurants in the Belleville area. The local restaurants, who will provide food at the event, are Big Daddy’s, the Abbey, Copper Fire, and the Edge. The Main course will be provided by the catering company Perfectly Plated. Tickets: $25 adults, $15 students from middle school through high school, 3 and under are free. Tickets available at eventbrite.com
▪ 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.
▪ Eckert’s 10th annual Wine & Food Festival — Noon to 6 p.m. Saturday, March 7, and Sunday, March 8. Eckert’s, 951 S. Green Mount Road, Belleville. Live music, cooking demonstrations, pairing classes, samples and more. Early bird tickets (before Feb. 29) are $18. After Feb. 29, tickets are $20. Reserve tasting early bird tickets are $28, includes an armband for access to a reserved table with reserve wines. Reserve tasting tickets increase to $30 after Feb. 29. eckerts.com
Club News
▪ Chicks with Sticks — 3-4:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 20. 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
▪ Saint Louis Astronomical Society — 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21. McDonnell Hall, Room 162, Washington University campus, St. Louis. “Probing the Sub-Microwave Universe” – an illustrated presentation by K. Michael Malolepszy of the Saint Louis Astronomical Society will be featured at the February meeting of the Society. Free and open to the public. slasonline.org
▪ M.U.S.I.C. Swing Dance Club — 5-9:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 23. VFW Hall, 1234 Vandalia St., Collinsville. One-hour free lesson with paid admission. No partner needed. Doors open 5 p.m. Lessons start 5:30 p.m. Dance 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. musicswingdance.com
▪ Women Empowering Women — 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday, Feb. 24. Bella Milano, 455 Regency Park, O’Fallon. Speaker: Melody McClellan, CEO Unwrap You LLC. Topic: How to Build Your Million Dollar Body and Business. 618-526-1600 or wewnational.com
▪ Mid-Illinois Iris Society — 6:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 24. Caseyville Township Hall, 10001 Bunkum Road, Fairview Heights. Beginning the 2020 season featuring Iris Boot Camp. You’ve bought iris rhizomes; we’ll show you what to do with them: Planting demonstration with a Tall Bearded variety and a Siberian (beardless) one with a different root system. Join us for iris answers, conversation, refreshments. For information: 618-822-6584.
▪ Granite City Senior Social Club Dance — 7-9 p.m. Monday, Feb. 24. Granite City Township Hall, 2060 Delmar Ave., Granite City. Doors open at 6 p.m. 618-877-4373, 618-797-6749 or 618-444-6771.
▪ 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
▪ Optimist Club of Belleville — 6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 25. Bellecourt Place, 120 N. Jackson St., Belleville. Annual Oratorical Contest. Guests welcome.
▪ Cookbook Club — 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 25. Glen Carbon Centennial Library, 198 S. Main, Glen Carbon. Presented by Ellora Ladd. Choose a cookbook, read it. Pick a dish, make it. Enjoy trying a variety of dishes as we discuss how we made them. Theme: Mardi Gras. 618-288-1212 or glencarbonlibrary.org
▪ 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\
▪ Metro East Treatment Talk MS Group — 7-9 p.m. Wednesday. Feb. 26. LINC, Inc., #15 Emerald Terrace, Swansea. Program: MS & Your Emotions: Staying Well. Video and discussion from the National MS Society. All are welcome. 618-235-8823 or Earhart500@aol.com
▪ Fairview Heights Woman’s Club — 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 27. Caseyville Township Building, 10001 Bunkum Road, Fairview Heights. President Tina Friederich will introduce guest speaker Dr. Chad Weber. Subject: Back and You. Hostesses: Patty Brennecke and Marion Hinkle.
▪ Alzheimer’s Association ‘In the Moment’ Support Group — 7-9 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 27. Oak Hill, 623 Hamacher, Waterloo. The video “Complaints of a Dutiful Daughter” will be shown. This documentary reveals the various stages of a woman’s Alzheimer’s disease and her daughter’s response to the illness. The second half of the meeting will be for sharing. Refreshments will be served. 618-939-3488, ext. 1248.
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. 21. Everyone welcome. Smithton Senior Center, 711 S. Main, Smithton. Partner Night. 618-233-3370.
▪ 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 Feb. 14. To reserve a table: joyce.votava@gmail.com or melissa@sweitzer.cc
▪ Family Trivia — 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22. Agricultural Building, Scheve Park, Mascoutah. Doors open at 6 p.m. Silent auction, mulligans, raffle. Bring your own snacks. No outside beverages. Soda and water available for purchase. Cost: $100 per table of eight. Children under 5 are free. Sponsored by St. Clair County Extension and Education Foundation. Reservations: 618-939-3434 or mkrahn@illinois.edu
▪ Bunko — 6:30-8:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 24. Eckert’s Country Restaurant, 951 S. Green Mount Road, Belleville. Cost: $5 per person, includes game, prizes, beverages and snacks. Open to the public. No reservation required. 618-233-0513, ext. 3 or eckerts.com
▪ 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. 25. 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/1321610561355012
▪ 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.
▪ Euchre Tournament — 7 p.m. Wednesdays. Agriculture Building, Scheve Park, Sixth Street and Park Drive, Mascoutah. 618-401-8858.
▪ 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
▪ Trivia Night Benefiting Got Your Six Support Dogs — 7 p.m. Saturday, March 21. Madison County Fireman’s Hall, 9510 Collinsville Road, Collinsville. Doors open at 6 p.m. Cash bar, bring your own snacks. Silent auction, 50/50 drawing, barrel of booze raffle. VIP table $200, table $160, eight players per table. Registration deadline is Sunday, March 1. To register: 618-977-8070 or amanda@gyssd.org
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
▪ ComedySportz Match — 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21, and Saturday, Feb. 22. 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/515189109346945
▪ The Trophy Mules — 9 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22. The Heavy Anchor, 5226 Gravois Ave., St. Louis. The Trophy Mules with The Tulip Rebellion and Sean Conway.
▪ The Metropolitan Orchestra of St. Louis — 7 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 23. First Presbyterian Church of Kirkwood, 100 E. Adams Ave., Kirkwood, Missouri. The Metropolitan Orchestra of St. Louis presents an exciting young pianist, Jerry Chang, performing Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 21. The concert will be led by Conductor Laureate, Allen C. Larson. Also on the program Elgar Serenade and Beethoven Symphony No. 7. Tickets range from $20 general admission to $5 students. moslmusic.org
▪ St. Louis Symphony Orchestra College Connections Chamber Concert with special guests the USAF Band of Mid-America — Noon Monday, Feb. 24. The Hettenhausen Center for the Arts, 400 N. Alton St., Lebanon. Free. Reservations recommended. thehett.com
▪ $2 Movies at the Wildey: ‘On the Town’ — 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 25. Wildey Theatre, 252 N. Main St., Edwardsville. Lobby opens at 6 p.m. Tickets only available the day of the show starting at 5 p.m. Cash or check only. (Charge/Debit cards accepted for concessions) All seats general admission.
▪ Jazz at the Gaslight: Vehachi featuring Joel Vanderheyden, Vincent Varvel and Joe Pastor — 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 25. 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
▪ National Geographic Live! Brian Skerry, Underwater Photographer: ‘Ocean Soul’ — 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26. The Hettenhausen Center for the Arts, 400 N. Alton St., Lebanon. Tickets are $20 adult/senior, $10 student/child, McKendree students free. thehett.com
▪ A Season for the Child presents ‘The Ever After’ — 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 29. Dunham Hall Theater, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. A cheesy talk show host invites traditional fairy tale characters who have been estranged for 20 years to reconcile on live TV. Individual tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for children. Tickets will be available for purchase in the Theater lobby beginning at 5:30 p.m. on Feb. 29.
▪ Broadway Pops! — 3 p.m. Sunday, March 1. The Hettenhausen Center for the Arts, 400 N. Alton St., Lebanon. Everyone’s favorite Broadway musicals plus a jazz trio. Tickets start at $10. singmasterworks.org
▪ Chamber Music Society of St. Louis: ‘Baroque Brass’ — 7:30 p.m. Monday, March 2. The Sheldon Concert Hall, 3648 Washington Blvd., St. Louis. Nicholas McGegan brings his energy, humor and expertise to lead a program that features music for trumpet, horn and strings. Tickets: $38 general admission. 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.
▪ 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
▪ Holy Cross Lutheran Church Fish Fry — 4:30-7 p.m. Fridays through April 3. Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 460 Church St. Livingston. Alaskan white fish, cod, catfish or shrimp. Sides include mac and cheese, cole slaw, homemade potato salad, baked beans, or fries. Cost: $10 regular dinners, $7 senior dinners. Children’s dinners and sandwiches also available. Carry-outs available. 618-637-2146 or facebook.com/HolyCrossFishFries
▪ Scottish Rite Fish Fry — 4:30-7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21. Scottish Rite Masonic Bodies, 1549 Frank Scott Parkway West, Belleville. By the pound, plate and sandwich. 618-235-3350.
▪ 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 through April 10. 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
▪ Spaghetti Dinner — 4-7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22. First United Methodist Church, 603 W. St. Louis St., Lebanon. Featuring sauce by Viviano’s. Tickets $10 adults, $4 kids 5-10, 4 and under free. Hosted by Lebanon Rotary Club. facebook.com/events/228005164888035
▪ Millstadt Boy Scout Troop 622 All-You-Can-Eat Pancake Breakfast — 7:30-11:30 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 23. St. James Parish Center, 423 W. Madison St., Millstadt. Pancakes, sausage, eggs, biscuits and gravy. Adults (age12 and up) $8, children ages 5-11 $3, under 5 eat free.
▪ 31st annual Chicken & Dumplings Dinner — 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 23. Trinity United Church of Christ, 47 N. Douglas Ave., Belleville. All-you-care-to-eat fresh, homemade chicken and dumplings, green beans, corn, homemade cole slaw, applesauce, roll, iced tea or coffee and one dessert. Quilt drawing, bakery, boutique and baskets. Adults: $10, children 5-12 $5, 4 and under free. 618-233-2941 or trinity-ucc.org
▪ SS Peter & Paul Parish Wurstmarkt & Bingo — 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 23. SS Peter & Paul Parish, 204 W. Mill St., Waterloo. All-you-can-eat pork sausage dinner 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dine in or carry-out. Quilt bingo at 1:30 p.m. in the school gym.
▪ Maeystown Fastnacht German Sausage and Pancake Dinner — 4:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 25. St. John UCC, 1301 Franklin St., Maeystown. Family-style dinner of pancakes, sausage, applesauce and doughnuts. German music provided by the New Hanover Deutschmeisters from 5-7 p.m. Cost: $10 for adults, $5 children 6-12. Under 6 are free. 618-580-5875.
▪ Spaghetti Dinner — 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 25. Calvary Lutheran Church, 6606 W. Main St., Belleville. Dinner includes spaghetti with sauce, dinner salad, bread, iced tea or lemonade, dessert. Free will offering. For information: 618-397-4989.
▪ St. Elizabeth Church Fish Fry — 4-7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26, and Fridays through April 10. St. Elizabeth Church, 2300 Pontoon Road, Granite City. Cod, catfish, pollock, jack salmon, shrimp. Eat-in or carry-out.
▪ St. Michael, Paderborn Fish Fry — 4-7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26. St. Michael, Paderborn Parish Hall, 4576 Buss Branch Road, Waterloo. Mass at 7:30 p.m.
▪ All-You-Can-Eat Fried Chicken — 4-8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26. Millstadt VFW Post, 200 Veterans Drive, Millstadt. 618-476-1180.
Reservations Required
▪ Bald Eagle Days at Pere Marquette — 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21, Friday, Feb. 28, and Friday, March 6. Pere Marquette State Park, 13112 Visitor Center Lane, Grafton. Informative programs about bald eagles. Learn to distinguish between immature and mature bald eagles, what eagles eat, why they spend winter months in the area and much more. Reservations are required. 618-786-3323 or visitalton.com
▪ Metro East Veteran Writing Workshop — 6-8 p.m. Tuesdays, Feb. 25, through March 24. Metro East Vet Center, 228 West Point Drive, Swansea. Over five sessions, participants will build creative writing and narrative skills to empower them to tell their stories, whether they be true-life accounts or original tales. Workshop facilitator, Kent Walker, combat Army veteran with an MFA in writing, will lead participants through writing exercises with encouraging feedback. Beginners to advanced writers welcome. Participants are not required to focus their writing on military experiences. Light Refreshments will be provided. Free parking. Registration is free, but space is limited. 618-825-0160 or mohumanities.org/veterans-writing-workshops
▪ Gardening for the Birds — 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 25. Glen Carbon Centennial Library, 198 S. Main, Glen Carbon. Presented by Mitch Leachman, St. Louis Audubon Society, who will discuss how to create a bird sanctuary of your own. Registration required. 618-288-1212 or glencarbonlibrary.org
▪ Suicide Prevention Training — 8-10 a.m. and 10-11 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 27. Memorial Hospital Belleville, BJC Healthcare, 4500 Memorial Drive, Auditorium, Belleville. This training will help attendees learn how to talk with other healthcare workers/colleagues when depression and suicide are a concern. Free registration with continental breakfast. Register: bit.ly/suicide_prevention2020
▪ Emotional Wellness Workshop — 10-11 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 27. PSOP, 201 N. Church St., Belleville. Cora Hughes, Spiritual Services & Volunteer Manager with Touchette Hospital will speak about the significant benefits of emotional wellness on healthy aging. To make a reservation for this free workshop, call 234-4410, ext. 7081. This workshop is sponsored by the St. Clair County Office on Aging and Touchette Hospital.
▪ AARP Taxaide — 9 a.m. to noon Friday, Feb. 28. 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
▪ Heart 101 Presentation — 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 28. Memorial’s Orthopedic and Neurosciences Center Community Room, 4700 Memorial Drive, Belleville. A light lunch and Heart 101 presentation. Dani Schrage, care coordinator and Melissa Rehkemper, NP, of Memorial’s Transitional Care Clinic will discuss heart basics, common disease processes and testing as well as offer tips for keeping your heart healthy. Seating is limited; please call 618-257-5649 to reserve your seat.
▪ 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. Tickets can be purchased online at LeapsOfLove.org
▪ Plethora of Pens — 6:30-7:30 p.m. Monday, March 2. Glen Carbon Centennial Library, 198 S. Main, Glen Carbon. Facilitated by Susan Carsell. This writing group encourages each other’s creativity and gives support to one another’s work. Registration required. 618-288-1212 or glencarbonlibrary.org
▪ 38th annual ISCYPAA — Friday, March 13, through Sunday, March 15. Four Points by Sheraton, 319 Fountains Parkway, Fairview Heights. The Illinois State Conference of Young People in Alcoholics Anonymous is an annual conference for members of A.A., Al-Anon, and Alateen. Featuring speakers, meetings and fellowship over a three-day weekend. All are welcome. For information or to pre-register: iscypaa.org or mesypaa@gmail.com
▪ Understanding Japan’s Criminal Process: What Can We Learn From the Carlos Ghosn Case? — 6-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 18. 103 Anheuser Busch Hall – College of Business, UMSL North Campus, St. Louis. Featuring Dr. Shigenori Matsui, professor and Director of Japanese Legal Studies at the Allard School of Law School of University of British Columbia. Free and open to the public. Seats are limited to 70. 314-516-5754 or jasstl.org