stjoelive.com | Stories for April 2009

Most baseball fans know the story of the legendary Jackie Robinson, about how he broke Major League Baseball's color barrier by being the first black player to play professionally. What many might not know, however, is the story behind the league that led Robinson to that point. The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, located in the historic 18th and Vine district in Kansas City, Mo., wants people to know that story. It's a part of America that has been left out of the history books, according to Bob Kendrick, the museum's vice president of marketing.

Royals beat up on Blue Jays

KANSAS CITY - Zack Greinke gave up an earned run for the first time in 43 innings, but Billy Butler backed him up with two homers and the Kansas City Royals had 11 extra-base hits in an 11-3 rout of the Toronto Blue Jays on Wednesday night. Vernon Wells' RBI single with two outs in the first produced the first earned run off Greinke (5-0) since last September, a span of six starts. After throwing complete-game shutouts his two previous starts, Grienke went seven innings, allowing five hits and two runs with two walks and eight strikeouts. He leads the AL with 44 strikeouts.

Northwest men, women eye national tourney opponents

Both the men's and women's tennis teams at Northwest Missouri State kept a watchful eye on Tuesday's announcement of the NCAA Division II national tournament field, but for very different reasons. The women's team, holding an automatic berth, simply wanted to verify its opponent. The men, however, were holding their collective breath to make sure they made the field. Both are heading south to battle for their playoff lives.

High school coaching deck gets shuffled

Dustin Barnes decided earlier this month to focus more of his attention on administration duties. Fairfax's principal picked the right time. After resigning as girls basketball coach, Barnes has made three new hires in the Bulldogs ranks to replace three outbound coaches - including himself. Fairfax announced the addition of former West Nodaway coaches Matt Messick and Phil Weldele along with Sarah Jackson's promotion to head girls basketball coach. Now, Barnes can relax a little bit more.

Western softball gets No. 2 seed

Once its MIAA-record, 32-game win streak ended, Missouri Western softball focused its energies on securing the No. 2 seed for the conference tournament. The Griffons (43-8, 16-4 MIAA) achieved that end in emphatic fashion, blanking Missouri Southern and Pittsburg State last weekend to close the regular season. Western finished one game in front of third-place Emporia State - two back of regular-season champion Central Missouri, which halted the Griffons' record run. Western hasn't allowed a run in 28 innings heading into today's MIAA tournament in Overland Park, Kan.

Wednesday's college sports

Tuesday's Prep Sports

Gonzalez bids farewell to K.C., wants to be remembered as a Chief

Atlanta-bound tight end Tony Gonzalez bid Kansas City farewell Tuesday and promised that if he ever goes into the Hall of Fame, it will be as a Chief. "The only regrets I have are things I didn't do," said the 10-time Pro Bowler. "I really wish I could have been a part of something more special. I wanted to be a part of bringing a championship to this city.

Benton's Woodruff sets personal best in mile

PLATTE CITY, Mo. - When Benton coach Duane Kimble shouts, Taylor Woodruff listens. Not that she has much choice in the matter. The Cardinals' accomplished distance runner took her coach's advice to heart during Tuesday's Pirate Invitational, where she set herself up for a successful stretch run. Woodruff shattered her season-best time in the mile by 13 seconds thanks to a pivotal final lap and Kimble's booming words.

Blue Jays rebound, sent Royals to defeat

KANSAS CITY - Scott Richmond pitched seven sharp innings, Vernon Wells drove in three runs and the Toronto Blue Jays beat the Kansas City Royals 8-1 Tuesday night. Aaron Hill had three more hits to increase his major-leading total to 36 and raise his average to .371. Hill, who had two RBIs, has a hit in all but one game this season.

DVD Review: "The Wrestler"

One of the best films of 2008 is the must-see DVD of 2009

There are any number of wrestling analogies that could be used to describe the impact of "The Wrestler," but you won't read them here. Instead, it can be said that "The Wrestler" is simple storytelling and a simply amazing movie featuring Mickey Rourke giving one of the best acting performances in recent memory.

Monday's Local Sports Stories

Art on display

First Friday Art Crawl lets local artists show their work

St. Joseph seems to have an abundance of artists, but not necessarily an abundance of places for them to display. The First Friday Art Crawl on Felix Street, however, displays a variety local artists each month.

St. Joe Live's Huge 2009 Summer Movie Preview

25 films to watch from May to August

How does Hollywood follow up a summer in which Indiana Jones returned to the big screen, Robert Downey Jr. shined as Iron Man and a black soldier, and "The Dark Knight" shattered box office records the world over? With giant robots, wizards, hippies, cavemen, guinea pig spies, Spock and an Austrian homosexual--that's how!

sunday's local sports stories

Royals' hitting woes continue in loss

KANSAS CITY - Brandon Inge is back at third base, and it's paying off at the plate. Inge hit a two-run homer, and Armando Galarraga pitched six solid innings to help the Detroit Tigers beat the Kansas City Royals 3-2 on Sunday.

Chiefs add defense, then speedy offensive players on draft's 2nd day

KANSAS CITY - A defense bad enough to make NFL history got all the attention on Kansas City's first three draft picks under the command of Scott Pioli and Todd Haley. Then the team's new brain trust turned to offense. Now, they'll focus on free agents, rookie free agents and any other method that may present an opportunity to take the Chiefs from the miserable 2-14 they suffered through last season to the status of Super Bowl contenders they knew in the 1990s.

Briscoe's bad luck benefits Dixon at Kansas Speedway

KANSAS CITY, Kan. - Scott Dixon followed his first Indy Racing League championship by going into a funk, dropping to 10th the next season. Two middle-of-the-pack finishes to start this season had Dixon wondering if he was headed down the same road after his second series title last year. All it took was one race to change his outlook.

Western's Allen, Northwest's Pestock go undrafted

As the seventh round of Sunday's NFL draft progressed, Roger Allen didn't want to hear his name called on television. D2football.com ranked the former Missouri Western guard as its No. 3 Division II prospect, projecting the former Western lineman to go somewhere in the fifth or sixth rounds. But when those two rounds passed without Allen's name coming up, the senior worked out a deal to sign with the St. Louis Rams if he wasn't selected by another team, according to Griffons coach Jerry Partridge.

Chiefs' 2nd-day picks include Braymer graduate Brown

KANSAS CITY - Colin Brown grew up - and up, and up - about an hour northeast of Kansas City. As a youngster, he would sit in the stands in Arrowhead Stadium and wonder how cool it would be to come running through that tunnel onto that field. Now he actually might find out. The Chiefs selected the native of Braymer, who spent the past four years blocking for Missouri, in the fifth round. Kansas City needs plenty of help on the offensive line. Brown graduated from Braymer in 2004 and joined Missouri as a walk-on.

Learning to swim at the Y

My memories of the YMCA at 10th and Faraon begin when I was 7 or 8 years old (1955-56). I attended Washington Grade School, and Principal Ruth Houston acquired free memberships for all the boys who would attend the Y. On Thursday evenings, there was also an Indian club, whose name I have forgotten.

Freedom for $10 a week

I moved into the YWCA at the end of 1959 and lived there during 1960. I had just graduated from Platt College and got my first job in St. Joe with Herschman & Douglas, Architects, in the Terminal Warehouse. My job paid $50 a week.

Two-run HRs by Laird, Granderson lead Tigers over Royals

KANSAS CITY - Gerald Laird and Curtis Granderson hit two-run homers and Magglio Ordonez a solo shot as the Detroit Tigers defeated the Kansas City Royals 9-1 Saturday night.

Chiefs choose LSU's Jackson in first round

With his first draft selection as te hman in charge in Kansas City, Scott Pioli took dead aim at the most glaring of his new team's many needs. Tyson Jackson, a quick and strong defensive end from LSU, was taken with the No. 3 overall pick and should lend immediate improvement to a defense that set an NFL record for pass-rushing futility with only 10 sacks.

Saturday's Prep Sports

Greinke strikes out 10 in 6-1 Royals victory

KANSAS CITY - Zack Greinke got even stronger after his scoreless streak ended at 38 innings.

Maryville's Farmer takes flight

MARYVILLE, Mo. - When he burst from his blocks, John Farmer nearly took flight. With gusting winds at his back, the Maryville senior tore down the track with astonishing speed and continued to pull away from his competition as he crossed the finish line. Even Farmer had to chuckle as he saw the time on the stopwatch.

Predictions of reduced turkey harvest hold true this season

As Jim Low of the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) wrote in a recent press release, "Sometimes being right is no fun."

Outdoor Column: House mulls special turkey federation license plates

Hunters, anglers, and other outdoorsmen love to show the world they're proud of their pursuits. I challenge anyone reading this column right now to go out and take a drive around town. I guarantee you'll see more cars and trucks with some sort of hunting or fishing decal, license plate cover or other memento than you can count on both hands.

Friday's Prep Sports

Kansas Speedway oval not as easy as it seems for IRL drivers

KANSAS CITY, Kan. - Racing an oval seems simple enough: accelerate down the straightaway, turn left, do it again. If only it were that easy. Oval racing is more complicated, more intense than appears as those IndyCars go round and round on the TV. There are constant adjustments to the car, handling changing weather and track conditions, dodging other cars, staying sharp to avoid hitting the wall - all at more than 200 mph.

Maclin headlines Missouri's draft prospects

ST. LOUIS - The dividend from Missouri's rise to prominence comes this weekend. Perhaps a half-dozen Tigers could get selected in the NFL draft. Wide receiver Jeremy Maclin is a certain first-round pick, and maybe defensive tackle Ziggy Hood, too. Tight end Chase Coffman, who holds the NCAA record for career receptions at his position, could get a call on the first day. Not one but two quarterbacks could get picked, with backup Chase Patton impressing scouts perhaps more than former Heisman Trophy finalist Chase Daniel.

St. Joseph boy shoots his way to Hall of Fame

Tanner Curtin might be just 11 years old, but he's already picked up a basketball obsession. And it's helped earn him and his family a trip to Springfield, Mass., and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

Northwest's Pestock ready for shot in the NFL

For the first time in years, former Northwest Missouri State offensive lineman Tom Pestock was only a spectator - not a competitor - at the regional Golden Gloves boxing championships. He was saving himself for what increasingly looks like a legitimate shot to put on a National Football League uniform.

Allen's road to the pros

Former Western guard a likely pick in this year's draft

This week Roger Allen lived like many other 23-year-olds who just finished up with college. He moved back into his father's house and prepared to start a professional career. Next week, his peer group will shrink significantly.

You stay animated, Hollywood.

The Mirage Group is moving forward with a live-action film focusing on the origins of the pizza-loving Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. This reminds Shea of some other cartoons that should never come to life.

Ending on a high note

The Saint Joseph Symphony announces big changes at its jazzy season finale concert this weekend

After four concerts that featured three musical director finalists, two things will be certain at the Saint Joseph Symphony's one final concert of the season: The symphony will announce a permanent fixture at the conductor's stand and they'll have a good time doing it. And the good times will roll thanks to jazz from the roaring '20s for the Saint Joseph Symphony's spring pops concert "A Night on the Town" at 8 p.m. April 25 at the Missouri Theater.

From exotic India

Nelson-Atkins exhibit explores the world of Mughal emperors

They say art can take you to different worlds, transport you to far-off lands. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art's latest exhibition is one that does just that.

From wounded to whole

'The Color Purple' comes to Kansas City's Music Hall

When the idea for making a musical of "The Color Purple" was first proposed, producers, singers and actors had their doubts. Kimberly Ann Harris was not one of those people.

Camping out in the States

Aussie duo An Horse cranks record store tunes

When they were working at a little record shop in Brisbane, Australia, Kate Cooper and Damon Cox had no idea they would be moving to the U.S. just a few years later. They felt the relocation was necessary to gain more listeners, although they are still adjusting.

The Shuffle: Sounding off on Swift

As a man and a music lover, I tend to exude behaviors and tastes that are very guy-like. I get pumped up when I hear Slipknot, Metallica or Foo Fighters during workouts. My two favorite spectator sports are football and mixed martial arts, and I have at least one tattoo. But lately, I've had songs floating around in my head about princesses, Romeos and thoughts of unrequited love from a teenage girl's perspective.

South Side eatery offers a Grand Slam

If you've been to Hyde Park in the past two years, you couldn't help but notice the Grand Slam Ice Cream Company on the west side of the park. The bright red and white colors will make you scream for ice cream.

St. Joe native goes from reporter to 'Play'

Many people went to see the political thriller "State of Play," starring Russell Crowe and Ben Affleck, last weekend. Jackie Crawford of St. Joseph was one of them, but she wasn't there to see A-list actors. She was looking for "Reporter #5," played by her granddaughter and St. Joe native, Denae D'Arcy.

This is: Pig Farmer

Entertainment briefs for April 24, 2009

Sizemore's homer leads Indians over Royals

CLEVELAND - A day after grumbling about Cleveland's inability to produce good at-bats, Grady Sizemore took matters into his own hands.

We recommend for April 24, 2009

Savages rample bases for win

After watching his teammates tee off all game long, Bryce George wasn't about to miss his turn in the extra-base hit parade.

Calendars for April 24, 2009

Falcons acquire Gonzalez from Chiefs

The Atlanta Falcons boosted their hopes for another trip to the playoffs by acquiring tight end Tony Gonzalez from the Kansas City Chiefs on Thursday for a draft pick next year. The Chiefs insisted they also improved their chances for success in 2009 by making the trade.

Warner propels Benton in soccer

SAVANNAH, Mo. - Heavin Warner didn't spend all of Thursday's match against Savannah in a forward position. Just long enough to provide Benton with the necessary offense for an upset.

Thursday's Local College Box Scores

Thursday's Prep Sports

Move over vampires, the wolf pack is here

New 'Twilight' photos and updates

The new 'Twilight' wolf pack gives the vampires some competition.

LeBlond tennis makes a statement with victory against Benton

Locked in a tight match, Bishop LeBlond's Matt Lierz had more to play for than just a win at the No. 3 singles position. This was about making a statement. The Golden Eagles swept their way through all six singles matches against Benton during an 8-1 win against their city and conference rival Wednesday at Noyes Tennis Complex. After losing twice to the Cardinals a year ago, LeBlond established itself as frontrunner in the Midland Empire Conference race during its first season in the league. "This was big for us," Lierz said. "It's a good rivalry, and we wanted to be able to be a presence."

Family heritage inspires Northwest track and field star

Bagpipes, kilts and plenty of muscle. Those are the things on display when the McKim brothers get together. Holding true to their Scottish heritage, Northwest Missouri State thrower Ben McKim and Bearcat alum Daniel McKim have found a competitive outlet in the Highland Games.

Savannah freshman bests veteran teammate

There were two golfers under par through six holes in the opening foursome during Wednesday's triangular between Savannah, Bishop LeBlond and Lafayette. Neither was named Derek Baade, Savannah's 2007 Class 2 state champion. Instead, LeBlond senior Steven Culver and Savannah freshman Ryan Hand embarked on a nine-hole shootout with both carding the best score of their high school careers. Hand's birdie-birdie-birdie start at Fairview Golf Course proved the difference, and Culver's shot into the water on No. 8 helped Hand to take medallist honors.

Northwest athletes earn nationals' berths

The Kansas Relays were kind to a couple of Northwest Missouri State athletes. Thrower Ben McKim automatically qualified for the NCAA National Championships in the shot put by winning his event last weekend, while Audrey Bailey earned an automatic bid to nationals with her second-place performance in the 400-meter hurdles. The efforts were good enough for both to earn MIAA athlete of the week honors, as announced Wednesday.

The Big Read

National event promotes reading, literacy and community involvement

How long has it been since you read a good book? Whether you haven't picked up a book since high school or you just got back from a trip to the library, the Allied Arts Council wants you to get reading. Reading "The Great Gatsby," to be specific. The AAC, along with the Rolling Hills Consolidated Library and St. Joseph Public Library, is hosting The Big Read during the month of May. A nationwide event, The Big Read is a program by the National Endowment for the Arts that encourages reading and literacy.

Bannister makes impressive return for Royals

CLEVELAND - Brian Bannister was excited to be back in the major leagues - and even more delighted his first start came in Cleveland. Bannister (1-0) and two relievers outpitched reigning AL Cy Young Award winner Cliff Lee, and the Kansas City Royals beat the Indians 2-0 Wednesday night. "I just seem to have a feel for this team and do like to pitch in this ballpark," said Bannister after improving to 3-0 with a 1.44 ERA in four career starts at Progressive Field.

Getting a little revenge

Partridge pitches Savannah into Pony Express final

Travis Partridge had a multitude of motivations to mow his way through Benton's lineup time and time again - not least of which was avenging his only loss of the season. Sometimes the most logical explanation is the simplest one. Crediting nothing but solid mechanics, Savannah's three-sport star looked sharp from top to finish and tossed a three-hit, complete game shutout during a 4-0 victory Tuesday afternoon at Hyde Park No. 6. He struck out a career-high 15 batters and propelled the Savages into the finals of the Pony Express Tournament for the first time since 2004.

LeBlond set to interview for football coaching position

Bishop LeBlond officials plan to interview three candidates today for their vacant football coaching position. Activities director Greg Kastner declined to name the prospective employees but stated one is a local, another a young coach who played in St. Joseph, and the third has extensive experience in Catholic education and coaching in the Kansas City area. The list doesn't include Central coach Tony Dudik, who has repeatedly said he plans to coach one more year with the Indians.

Under the influence

National touring acts reveal what got them into music

It doesn't matter how influential or original an artist is in music, there was somebody out there who they admired. The Beatles had Chuck Berry. Bob Dylan had Woody Guthrie. And many of the artists and bands we have talked to that have come to our area have them to. Here is some of early influences that got them into music.

MIAA presidents prepare to vote on Rockhurst admission

Just about every MIAA team drives by Rockhurst during its respective conference season. In less than two months, they all will find out whether those league trips will include future stops at the Kansas City university. The MIAA's presidents will vote on Rockhurst's application to join the conference June 12.

LeBlond pitcher throws 2nd-straight no-hitter

Less than one week after throwing a no-hitter against South Nodaway, Andrew Nellestein worked his same magic on the mound. This time, the Bishop LeBlond junior didn't receive the same run support. Nellestein threw his second straight no-hitter Tuesday night at Bartlett Park in a 3-1 win against Maryville in the consolation semifinals of the Pony Express Tournament. But unlike last Wednesday's easy win against South Nodaway, Nellestein nearly drew a loss against Maryville.

Western's Bell tears her other ACL

Alicia Bell underwent surgery on her right knee Thursday - likely sidelining the Missouri Western point guard for the next six months. It's the second time in the past year and a half that the Benton graduate tore an anterior cruciate ligament. Bell blew out her left knee in December 2007 as a freshman at Northwest Missouri State. She rehabbed last year, while sitting out the season to transfer to Western.