Tag: St. Clair Missouri

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri April 6 – April 12, 2026

Posted on by Amanda

This week there’s plenty of events centered around plants – from a class on how to forage a wild pesto from your backyard, to a plant & sip event creating a potted flower, a community gardening event, and much more. For those who love trivia and bingo, there’s a black light bingo fundraiser, plus themed trivia nights that will test your knowledge on all things Marvel, Lord of the Rings, and Route 66 Centennial info.

There’s also community dances, a Cars & Coffee event, a pop-up BBQ event, a chance to watch kites dance in the wind at a local park, and a lot more!

Just a heads up! April is prime spring shower weather in Missouri, so it might be a good idea to double check with event venues before heading out just in case an event gets canceled or rescheduled due to weather!

Did I miss an event? Tag me on Facebook or Instagram and I can share the event in my stories.

Wednesday, April 8
Bedazzle your book at Neighborhood Reads in Washington. Bring your own book from home, or buy a book from the store to bedazzle. The store will have all the supplies needed to decorate your book.
Get tickets.

Thursday, April 9
Want to learn more about small towns across the state and meet a local author? Then head to the Washington Public Library for the Friends Author Series with Author Caitlin Yager, who will sign copies of her book Small Town Missouri.
Learn more.

Friday, April 10
Head to New Haven for a BBQ Pop-Up by Josh Lang. Josh will pick a menu, make it on site and it all happens on the Pinckney Bend Distillery patio. The event is from 4-7 p.m., or until the food sells out.
Get more info.

Saturday, April 11
Kids and families are invited to free train rides aboard the mini train at Grant Station Park in Union. The rides will be from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Learn more on Facebook.

Saturday, April 11
Head to Lost Hill Lake in St. Clair for an evening of community, camping, a potluck, and breathwork.
Get your tickets.

Saturday, April 11
Attend a black light bingo fundraiser event at St. Clair KC Hall. The funds will benefit St. Clair elementary and Murray schools. In addition to bingo, there will also be a silent auction.
Get more info.

Saturday, April 11
Crooked Creek Beef in Pacific is hosting an Animalpalooza event from 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Get more details.

Saturday, April 11
Gateway Kite Club will be at Veterans Memorial Park in Union from 1-4 p.m. for Union MO Kite Fest. The whole family is invited to the park to watch professional flying demonstrations by the Gateway Kite Club.
Find out more.

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Saturday, April 11
Get a Makers Camp Preview at Vibrant Minds in Washington from 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. This preview is based on one of Vibrant Minds’ summer camp themes, Makers Week. During Makers Week, students will design, build, create, and solve problems using new, different, and recycled materials.
Get more info.

Saturday, April 11
The Smiley Face Project will have a spring craft and community garden day, in St. Clair which will be an outdoors and community focused event. There will be local vendors that will be selling a variety of items such as baked goods, handmade crafts, art, as well as live music and planting a variety of food and herbs to make a community garden that will accessible for free for those in need. The event is from 12-5 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, April 11
Bring your ride, grab some coffee, and chat with other car enthusiasts at Cars & Coffee at St. Peters UCC in New Haven. All makes and models welcome, just swing by between 8 and 11 a.m. to check out the rides in the parking lot behind the church. 
Find out more.

Saturday, April 11
The first Catawissa farmers market of the year is happening on Saturday. Find a list of the local vendors and more on Facebook.
Learn more.

Saturday, April 11
In honor of summer coming up, go to a trivia night in Sullivan with a road trip theme. The event is at the Sullivan Eagles Hall and begins at 7 p.m.
Get more info.

Saturday, April 11
Head to Hoffmann Hillermann Nursery to build your own carnivorous bog garden that mimics the plants natural environment to encourage healthier plants.
Get tickets and learn more.

Saturday, April 11
The Sullivan Athletic Club is hosting a Reptiles, Oddities, and More event. The event is from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and will feature vendors and more.
Get more info.

Saturday, April 11
The Franklin County Humane Society is hosting a vaccination clinic for pets.
Learn more.

Saturday, April 11
Head to East Central College for a free evening of stargazing. Join other stargazers at the lower parking lot at dusk. Bring your viewing equipment and chairs to enjoy the experience.
More info.

Sunday, April 12
Tri-County Community Senior Center is hosting a Spring Fling Dance from 2-5 p.m. Admission is $10 per person and the event includes a live band, light snacks, water, tea, lemonade, and attendees may BYOB. Tickets are not being sold in advance, so purchase them at the door. And don’t forget to dress to impress.
Find out more.

Road Trippin’

Take a little road trip to some of these events happening within a short drive of Franklin County.

Tuesday, April 7
Countryside Farm & Market in Cuba is hosting a Plant & Sip event and attendees will create their own potted flower arrangement.
Find out more.

Friday, April 10
Defiance Ridge Vineyards is hosting a Lord of the Rings trivia night beginning at 6 p.m. Test your knowledge of Tolkien with trivia specific to the books and the movies.
Learn more.

Friday, April 10
The spring daddy daughter dance called The Enchanted Lantern Ball is happening at Brookdale Farms in Eureka. Expect an evening of dancing, magical photos, and a fairy tale atmosphere, complete with a visit from Rapunzel.
Get your tickets.

Saturday, April 11
The Bourbon Area Community Center in Bourbon is hosting a Route 66 Centennial Trivia Night, with funds raised to benefit the Bourbon High School Class of 2026. The fun kicks off at 6 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, April 11
Step back into history with a guided tour of The Historic Daniel Boone Home. Experience an educational and inspiring journey through the lives of Daniel and Rebecca Boone as you explore what life was like on the early American frontier.
Get all the details.

Sunday, April 12
Prairie Barn Winery & Christmas Tree Farm in St. James is hosting a Marvel themed trivia event starting at 2:30 p.m. Come out to this trivia event that’s perfect for the whole family.
Find out more.

Sunday, April 12
Frisella Nursery in Defiance is having teaching you how to craft a pesto made from wild ingredients found in your backyard. Attendees will learn how to identify and use common species such as henbit, dead nettle, and more.
Get tickets.

Have a public event coming up? Submit your event details like time, location, and cost to attend. Be sure to include your website and social media details so I can help spread the word about your event!

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri March 30 – April 5, 2026

Posted on by Amanda

Easter’s on the horizon and this week egg hunts and visits with the Easter bunny continue to take place around Franklin County! There are free events, indoor and outdoor events, as well as egg hunts for all ages.

If you want to leave the Easter meal to someone else, there are a couple options for Easter brunch – with a buffet option at Mangia Bella in Washington or Easter brunch at Spencer Manor Winery in St. James.

Just a heads up! April is prime spring shower weather in Missouri, so it might be a good idea to double check with event venues before heading out just in case an event gets canceled or rescheduled due to weather!

Did I miss an event? Tag me on Facebook or Instagram and I can share the event in my stories.

Thursday, April 2
The Alley in Washington is having an Easter Egg-stravaganza! Decorate a wooden egg and have your photo taken with the Easter bunny, and there are egg hunts for kids and adults. Cost to attend is $5.
Learn more.

Friday, April 3
Have breakfast with the Easter bunny on Good Friday at City Park in Union. Enjoy donut holes, drinks, and an egg hunt. Advance tickets are required and can be purchased at the park office.
Learn more.

Friday, April 3
First Baptist Church in Union is having an Easter egg hunt at 1 p.m. for kids up to age 12.
Find out more.

Friday, April 3
The Scenic Regional Library St. Clair Branch is hosting a Egg-Dying Makerspace from 12-4 p.m. Leave the supplies and mess to the library, you just bring your boiled eggs! Supplies including dye, markers, tattoos, shaving cream, tissue paper are provided by the library.
Get more info.

Saturday, April 4
Create a stained glass sheep at Shattered Glass Designs in Washington. The event begins at 10 a.m. and registration is required to attend.
Learn more and register.

Saturday, April 4
Hear live music performed by Tom Norton at Hangout Entertainment Bar & Grill in St. Clair from 6-9 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, April 4
Point Labaddie Brewery in Labaddie will have Papillion Perennials Spring Plant Sale from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. There will also be music by Gage Seitz and food by Hot Tamales Love at First Bite.
More info.

Saturday, April 4
The Lions Club of New Haven will host an Easter egg hunt beginning at 1 p.m. at the city park.
Find out more.

Saturday, April 4
Andy’s Produce Too in Union is hosting a free Easter event. Have your photo taken with the Easter bunny, take part in an egg hunt, plus there will be a kids vendor event and a seafood boil.
Get all the details.

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Saturday, April 4
Over 6,000 eggs will be scattered like treasure on the Harney Mansion’s lawn in Sullivan. Find a golden egg and win a prize! The Easter Bunny will be there, ready to strike a pose with your little ones. The fun begins at 11 a.m.
Find out more.

Saturday, April 4
American Legion in Union is having an adult egg hunt beginning at 6:30 p.m. The cost is $25 per person and includes food and drinks, plus egg hunting fun.
More info.

Saturday, April 4
The Alley and Cinema 1 Plus in Washington are teaming up to bring the community a Mario Kart Tournament on the big screen. The cost $8 per and the fun starts at 9 a.m.
Get more details.

Saturday, April 4
The Moose Lodge in Union is hosting an Easter Carnival from 2-4 p.m. The event will have fun and games for kids inside the hall, with a possible egg hunt outdoors at 1 p.m., weather permitting.
Stay up to date on the event.

Saturday, April 4
The annual Riverside Short Film Festival is happening in downtown New Haven, beginning at 2 p.m. Tickets are required to attend due to limited seating.
Find out more.

Saturday, April 4
Create a resurrection garden at Hoffmann Hillermann Nursery & Florist. The event begins at 11 a.m. and costs $40. Registration required to attend.
Register for the event.

Saturday, April 4
Head to the Knights of Columbus Hall in Washington for an Easter egg hunt at 10 a.m.
Learn more.

Sunday, April 5
Enjoy Easter brunch at Mangia Bella in Washington. This open seating buffet-style meal is $40 per adult and $25 per child and coffee, tea, and juice are included with bottomless Mimosa and Bloody Marys available for an additional $30.
Find out more.

Road Trippin’

Take a little road trip to some of these events happening within a short drive of Franklin County.

Friday, April 3
The “Non-Newlywed Game” Show is an event happening in Salem. In this couple vs. couple hilarious version of the classic game show, you will discover just how much the couples playing the game know (or don’t know!) about their spouse!
Learn more.

Saturday, April 4
Brookdale Farms in Eureka is hosting its annual Easter egg hunt and pancake breakfast. The egg hunt is for kids, but the breakfast is open to the whole family.
Learn more and purchase tickets.

Sunday, April 5
Spencer Manor Winery in St. James is having an Easter brunch filled with great food, springtime vibes, and good company. Enjoy a delicious spread of brunch favorites, and fresh flavors, while gathering with friends and family to celebrate the season.
Find out more.

Posted in News and Features

American Street Edge, a Self-Defense School Led by Fourth Degree Kenpo Karate Blackbelt Instructor, Now Open in St. Clair

Posted on by Amanda

Earlier this month American Street Edge, a self-defense school, opened in St. Clair. The school focuses on practical street safety, situational awareness, de-escalation, boundary-setting, and character-building for kids ages 6 to 12 as well as adults. 

With a 40 year martial arts background that spans across multiple disciplines including Kung Fu, Taekwondo, and a fourth degree black belt in American Kenpo Karate, owner and instructor Tim Fancher has a passion and commitment to helping people increase their personal safety and security. 

Between his extensive martial arts knowledge and drawing on a diverse professional background and numerous degrees that include criminal justice, theology, and sociology, Tim uses his professional experiences as a former police officer, private investigator, church security instructor, and a unique thirst for knowledge to form the American Street Edge program, which is a methodology that differs from many other self-defense courses and martial arts schools. 

Instructor Tim Fancher poses inside his newly opened St. Clair self-defense school. Photo credit: The Socialite_Amanda Bretz

American Street Edge focuses on equipping students by helping them to recognize predatory behavior as well as body language and behaviors that are often pre-fight indicators. Students also learn how to de-escalate situations and manage due to fear tense scenarios and daily life.

“I can’t stand unwarranted fear and when someone is feeling afraid in everyday situations. I know if someone can give me a couple of hours, I can make a difference,” he says.

As someone who has been in high adrenaline situations, he’s taken an academic approach to study the psychological and physiological effects of fear on the body by reading countless books on the subjects. Tim helps his students learn through scenario-based training that replicates situations that have been in the news, and helps them understand what to do, as well as what not to do, if they face a similar situation.

Bringing American Street Edge to Franklin County

While Tim has operated American Street Edge schools before in other parts of Missouri and in Oklahoma, the St. Clair school has been a long time in the making.

American Street Edge focuses on fear management, self-defense, and de-escalation strategies. Logo via American Street Edge on Facebook.

Before he opened the current location, Tim offered some instruction sessions at St. Clair gym Priority Fitness and credits gym owner Jennifer Gratzer with encouraging him to open a school.

“From the very beginning Jennifer told me, ‘you’ve got to open a school.’”

The motivation to get the martial arts school off the ground significantly increased after a health related issue he experienced in the fall of 2025 put him in the hospital in critical condition. Tim recalls that sobering moment with clarity months later. 

“I was lying in the hospital bed and facing the possibility of life-altering surgery the next day and that’s when I really broke down in tears. I remember thinking ‘am I ever going to be able to teach again?’” 

He points to that moment as the shift that changed everything and reignited his commitment to teaching self-defense.

“I made a decision that if I got my health back, that I’d take American Street Edge to a level it’s never been before and I began to think about legacy and what I will leave behind,” Tim shares. 

Working with Kids

Part of that legacy-building includes his drive to equip kids with self-defense tactics against would-be child abductors. The core of his teachings stems from a belief that most child safety and self-defense courses are rooted in fear. Rather than focusing on the “stranger danger” model that advocates that children have what he considers an unhealthy suspicion of all unknown adults, the American Street Edge model focuses on instilling skills and confidence, while also giving kids a practical framework that keeps them safe.

Tim instructs kids ages 6-12 at the St. Clair martial arts school. Photo via American Street Edge on Facebook.

While instructing a group of children of varying ages after a long day of school or other commitments can come with challenges for any teacher, Tim handles it with grace and a confident demeanor. He gently guides kids to keep them engaged with the lessons by reminding them to “focus their mind” and retain their defensive stance and posture throughout the 45-minute session. 

“I call it the Mr. Myagi effect,” he says. “Kids really respond to instruction and guidance because they’re often craving that.”

Looking ahead, Tim will speak at a Mental Health Conference, which is happening May 15-16 at First Christian Church in Union. The conference is free, and open to the community and will feature keynote speakers, breakout workshops, and community resource access. 

Currently, the school is open a few evenings a week, with group classes offered for adults and kids each day that it is open. Tim has offered Small Town Socialite readers a way to try the school for free. Contact American Street Edge and mention this article to gain one-time free admission to a group class. 

American Street Edge is located at 960 Plaza Dr. Suite B, in St. Clair. Reach out to Tim to learn more about American Street Edge via email at americanstreetedge@gmail.com. You can also visit the website or follow the school on Facebook to learn more and find the current class schedule.

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri March 23 – March 29, 2026

Posted on by Amanda

The Easter bunny is hopping into Franklin County this week! There are bunny-themed breakfasts, Easter-themed activities, games, and more happening around the area. There are also egg hunts for kids, teens, and the young at heart!

In addition to the Easter festivities, there are craft events, a pop culture trivia night, the first farmers market & craft fair of the season at Kaleidoscope Consignment in Pacific, plus this weekend it’s the 45th Annual Wurstfest in nearby Hermann, a mother-daughter event at Brookdale Farms in Eureka, the Outdoor Spring Flea Market at Half Crocked Antiques in Bourbon, and much more.

Pro tip: minimize disappointments and save gas (hello, price increase!) by double checking with event venues before heading out just in case events sell out or get rescheduled due to unforeseen circumstances!

Did I miss an event? Tag me on Facebook or Instagram and I can share the event in my stories.

Thursday, March 26
The Union Branch of Scenic Regional Library is having a “Crafternoon” event at 2 p.m. Attendees can bring a craft project of their choosing and work among other craft-loving people. What could be better than working on a project and making new friends in the process?
Learn more.

Thursday, March 26
Clark Street Cafe & Bakery in Sullivan is hosting a Craft Night. Attendees will create a DIY painted tote bag from 5-6 p.m. and cost is $25 per person.
Find out how to register.

Friday, March 27
The Washington Public Library is having a teen Easter egg hunt inside the library from 6-6:30 p.m.
Get more info.

Friday, March 27
Teens, grab your friends and get ready for a fun night under the lights at Liberty Field in Pacific. Try your luck at finding the “Golden Egg” at the 4th Annual Teen Easter Egg Hunt.
Find out more.

Saturday, March 28
Easter Eggstravaganza at First Baptist Church Washington will feature egg hunts, games, crafts, food, prizes, and much more. It will be a fun-filled afternoon for the whole family, and everything is completely free!
Learn more.

Saturday, March 28
Head to Gerald Legion Park for an Easter egg hunt beginning at 10 a.m.
More details.

Saturday, March 28
Make a fleece tie blanket to help a child in need at Project Linus of Franklin & Crawford County’s Make a Blanket event at the Union Branch of Scenic Regional Library. The event is from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
RSVP to attend.

Saturday, March 28
St. Clair’s annual community Easter egg hunt at Orchard Park is happening at 11 a.m. Attendees can expect hot dogs, chips, and drinks while supplies last.
Get more info on Facebook.

Saturday, March 28
Have breakfast with the Easter bunny at Miller’s Grill. Enjoy scrambled eggs, bacon, pancakes, with orange juice, milk or coffee from 8 – 9:45 a.m. Children big and small have the opportunity for a FREE photo with the Easter Bunny and get an Easter cookie with the purchase of a breakfast.
Learn where you can purchase tickets.

Saturday, March 28
Get ready to time-travel through pop culture at the Pop Culture, Decades of Trivia at the Pacific Eagles. Trivia questions will range from the swinging sixties to the tech-savvy 2000s as well as exploring iconic moments, unforgettable music, groundbreaking movies, and the trends that defined each era.
Get tickets and learn more.

Saturday, March 28
The Knights of Columbus Hall in Washington is hosting the Franklin County Backstoppers Dinner Auction to assist families of fallen first responders.
Learn more.

Saturday, March 28
Fitness Made Fun in Washington is having an Open Gym from 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. and it’s the perfect chance for kids to jump, tumble, climb, and play in a high-energy, supervised environment. It’s all about moving, laughing, and having a blast with friends—new and old!
Find out more.

Saturday, March 28
Pacific Community Park is the place to be for an adult glow-in-the-dark egg hunt you won’t want to miss! Registration begins at 6:30 p.m. and the fun starts at 8 p.m.
Advance ticket purchase required.

Saturday, March 28
Triple 3 Vineyard is having a five-course dinner crafted by Chef Alex, and the menu is perfectly paired with selections from Triple 3 wines. Following the meal, guests will have the unique opportunity to tour the vineyard’s production facility. Don’t miss this memorable evening of fine dining and wine exploration.
Get tickets and learn more.

Saturday, March 28
Boles Fire Protection District in Villa Ridge is having a free breakfast with the Firefighters, Chief Officers, and Board of Directors as well as a special visit from Good Bunny.
Learn more.

Sunday, March 29
Kaleidoscope Consignment in Pacific is hosting the first Farmers Market & Craft Fair of the season from 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. You’ll find sourdough, plants, crafts, and more. Enjoy food from Hot Tamales Love at First Bite food truck.
Learn more.

Sunday, March 29
Head to Muddy Banks Brewing in Sullivan for an Easter themed cookie decorating class that kicks off at 2 p.m. Decorate half a dozen cookies under the guidance of the instructor and take home your cookies at the end of class.
Register for class.

Back view of white two-story home with a covered patio
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Road Trippin’

Take a little road trip to some of these events happening within a short drive of Franklin County.

Wednesday, March 25
Enjoy an evening with your friends or that special someone in one of the historic buildings at The Historic Daniel Boone Home in Defiance. The venue will provide the candlelight, a table to sit by the fire, tabletop activities and the ambiance—you bring dinner and drinks. After dinner, take a scenic walk through the Boone Home to watch the beautiful sunset. The event is for ages 18 and up; cost is $5 per person.
Pre-registration is required.

Friday, March 27-Sunday, March 29
The 45th Annual Hermann Wurstfest celebrates the town’s 160-year sausage-making history. From sausage sampling and competitions to kraut-making classes, German dancing, live music, and the highly-anticipated Wiener Dog Derby, dog costume contest, and talent show – there’s something for everyone.
Find out more.

Friday, March 27
It’s Mother-Daughter Ranch Night at Brookdale Farms in Eureka. Enjoy BBQ, games, animal encounters, and more.
Get more info.

Saturday, March 28
Half Crocked Antiques in Bourbon is having an Outdoor Spring Flea Market. The event is from 7 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, March 28
Heartland Farms in Bourbon is having a helicopter Easter egg drop. This ticketed event includes hunting for the 10,000 filled eggs dropped from a helicopter, as well as pictures with the Easter bunny, ziplines, slides, and much more.
Get tickets.

Saturday, March 28
Marthasville Area Chamber of Commerce is having an egg hunt at the ball fields at 10 a.m. Egg hunts will be organized by age groups, and kids ages 0-10 can participate. There will also be opportunities to get photos with the Easter bunny.
Find out more.

Saturday, March 28
Brooks and Young Realty in Warrenton is hosting a Bunny Fun Day from 1-3 p.m. Take pictures with the Easter bunny, play games, and more.
Get more info.

Saturday, March 28
Balducci Vineyards in Augusta is having a very special Easter celebration! There will be plenty of prizes and an egg-hunting activity for children followed by Instagrammable moments with Sunny The Bunny! Free for kids and the Egg hunt begins at 11:30 a.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, March 28
Take your kiddos to the Youth Easter Egg Hunt at Kircher Park in Eureka from 10 a.m. – noon. There will also be a pancake breakfast provided by the Knights of Columbus, crafts, photos, and more.
Get all the details.

Saturday, March 28
Marthasville is having an adult Easter egg hunt from 6-8 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, March 28
Head to Warrenton for an Easter Eggapalooza at Fellowship Baptist Church. The event will feature an egg hunt, bounce house, horse rides, face painting, obstacle course, food, music, and prize giveaways!
Get more info.

Sunday, March 29
The Outfield Bar & Grill in Marthasville is having a Cornhole Tournament beginning at noon. Cost is $10 per person.
Find out more.

Sunday, March 29
Berry Park in Eureka is hosting an Easter egg hunt from 1-3 p.m. Play games, find eggs, kiddos can get their faces painted, and much more.
Find out more.

Have a public event coming up? Submit your event details like time, location, and cost to attend. Be sure to include your website and social media details so I can help spread the word about your event!