Straight Talk: ’Tis the season for all to be jolly

ROGER MONROE

ROGER MONROE

Good to see plans for two new amphitheaters and Scottish Rite; congrats to Generals Hal Fritz and Dan McDonough; now sing!

It’s the holiday season. A time to be thankful and joyful. Let’s put behind us the acrimony of the political campaigns, the scandals, the anger and the disappointments and focus on the positive accomplishments and the good news of recent days and months. Here are a few:

The Peoria Park Board approved its budget for the coming year, and it includes money for a new Glen Oak Park amphitheater. It was promised a couple of years ago. Some worried it was just talk to appease neighbors. Not true. Apparently, they had other projects such as a new golf learning center on the other more affluent side of town. The long-neglected existing amphitheater has an exciting history of events and celebrities. I remember speaking at a Woodruff High School commencement exercise on a delightful June evening. The setting could not have been more beautiful and memorable.

That occasion pales in comparison to the appearances of the Beach Boys and Fleetwood Mac in 1976. Thousands packed the park as they did for other concerts by Charlie Daniels, John Sebastian of “The Lovin’ Spoonful,” Bob Seger and the “Silver Bullet Band,” and the “Little River Band.” And don’t forget Andy Williams, who was scheduled to appear in 1974. The amphitheater next to the park’s historic lagoon certainly has its memories for many Peorians, especially for my generation.

The last time I viewed plans for the amphitheater it included a bandshell, some basketball courts and restrooms. The restrooms I understand. The connection between an amphitheater and basketball is hard to make. Nevertheless, congratulations to Peoria Park District trustees for moving forward.

Speaking of entertainment venues, Washington Mayor Gary Manier says a $12 million donation will open the way for an amphitheater in that city. Jim Hengst made the pledge with a request the project be named after his late wife, Dee. Manier said the site for the amphitheater is land near the intersection of Route 24 and Nofsinger Road. It would seat 2,000 with lawn space for another 3,000.

Then there’s the announcement that a new company will take over the historic Scottish Rite (Cathedral) Theater and reopen it as early as next March. Still owned by the KDM Group headed by developer Kim Blickenstaff, the theater will be managed by Temple Live of Arkansas. The company has a history of managing similar buildings and hopes to bring entertainers and concerts to the uniquely designed Scottish Rite Theater that’s been unused for some two years.

IN OTHER GOOD NEWS: Vietnam veteran and Medal of Honor recipient Hal Fritz was honored Friday, Nov. 15.

Lt. Colonel Fritz was recognized during ceremonies held at the Peoria County Veterans Assistance Commission for his leadership in the military and the community. The Peoria County veterans facility is now named after him. Fritz received the Medal of Honor from President Richard Nixon in 1971 for his heroic actions as platoon leader during a fire fight with the enemy. Though seriously wounded, Fritz made decisions directing positions that eventually routed the enemy to retreat. Since retiring from service, Fritz has continued to work on behalf of local veterans. Hal Fritz is truly a hero and we salute him.

Congratulations to Brigadier General Daniel R. McDonough. In ceremonies held at the 182nd Air Lift Wing, General McDonough was promoted to the rank of Major General of the Illinois Air National Guard. The promotion was announced by Major General Rodney C. Boyd, Adjutant General, Illinois Commander, Illinois National Guard. General McDonough has served as commander of the 182nd Air Lift Wing during his military service and was a regular monthly guest on “Breakfast with Roger and Friends.” Col. Rusty Ballard now handles the regular appearances on behalf of the Air Guard.

ACROSS THE RIVER: East Peoria can be proud of the continued development in the Levee District. City officials announced an agreement with Frontier Hospitality to construct a 110-room Hilton Hampton Hotel near the Bob Michel Bridge. On the other side of the bridge sits the successful Embassy Suites. The entire district is alive with retail stores and restaurants and attracts thousands this time of the year for the Festival of Lights parade and other holiday events.

We’re told there are other projects on the drawing board for 2025.

HOLIDAY EVENTS: The annual community Christmas Sing takes place Tuesday, Dec. 18 at the Riverfront Museum, featuring the talented Lee Wenger and his wife, Denise. It’s held in the lobby of the museum with seating for all and it’s free. Join the fun sing-a-long next to the beautifully decorated Christmas tree. Parking is available in the underground facility off Water Street. Thanks to Ray LaHood and executive director John Morris and his staff for making it all possible.

The Second Annual “Christmas with Roger and Friends” will be held 2 p.m., Sunday afternoon, Dec. 15, at the Baptist Church in Deer Creek. It’s an old-fashioned celebration of the season with plenty of holiday songs featuring Gospel singers Cathy Reynolds and Jason Collins, and pianist and composer, Pastor Steve Evans, who has written a song for the occasion. There’ll be Christmas readings by comedian Eddy Parker, Dr. Gene Sidler, Mike Dentino, John Meisinger, Teri Chamberlain, Mike Olson, and Kyle Varnold. I’ll be there as host and emcee. Everyone is invited to attend.

THINK ABOUT IT: It was an historic event when former President Donald Trump and current President Joe Biden met at the White House after the election. Forgotten were the sometimes vicious charges and counter-charges between the two leaders over the years. The genuine and warm smiles between the two men were what the nation needed. They behaved like two boxers embracing after trading blows in a 12-round championship battle or players after a hard fought Stanley Cup title game. The country needs to settle down, if only for the holidays.

Unfortunately, the DNA of some people will not allow it, even during the celebration of the birth of the Christ child. We pray for peace.

QUOTE OF THE MONTH: “Behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David, a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” — St. Luke Chapter 2



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