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DJ Strickland Florissant Honored with Key to the City for Community Impact

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DJ Strickland Florissant presenting a $1,700 donation check to the TEAM Food Pantry with city and community representatives.

DJ Strickland Florissant TEAM Food Pantry Donation

FLORISSANT, MO — DJ Strickland Florissant was recognized this week as one of the community’s standout young leaders, receiving the Key to the City for his continued dedication to service. Presented by Mayor Timothy Lowery, the honor highlights Strickland’s recent $1,700 donation to the TEAM Food Pantry and his larger history of philanthropy throughout North St. Louis County.

How the DJ Strickland Florissant Donation Supports Local Families

Strickland, the creator of the regional “Team Tech Boy” brand, delivered the $1,700 check to TEAM (The Emergency Assistance Ministry) yesterday. The funds, secured through a partnership with the global generosity movement GivingTuesday, will help the volunteer-driven pantry continue providing essential food and financial support to families in the Florissant and Hazelwood areas.

City officials expressed their gratitude during the presentation ceremony, stating, “The City of Florissant would like to thank DJ for his kindness and generosity in helping out his community.” Mayor Lowery praised Strickland for modeling compassion and inspiring residents of all ages.

A History of Heroic Philanthropy

While this week’s recognition honored a specific donation, Strickland’s work stretches far beyond a single act of giving. He first gained national attention through Team Tech Boy Lunch Heroes, an initiative shaped by his own experiences with food insecurity in elementary school. The campaign has raised thousands of dollars to eliminate school lunch debt across the Hazelwood School District, ensuring that students are never denied a meal because they cannot pay.

In addition to his charitable efforts, Strickland is a strong advocate for education and representation in STEM fields. He is the author of the comic book series Tech Boy and Science Girl, created to encourage youth — especially those from underrepresented backgrounds — to explore careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Strengthening Florissant Through Service

The recent TEAM Food Pantry donation arrives at a critical time for local families seeking assistance. Strickland’s contribution, supported by the reach of GivingTuesday, will directly supply resources needed for the pantry’s daily operations.

By presenting the Key to the City, Mayor Lowery and the City of Florissant have affirmed Strickland’s role as a young leader making a meaningful impact. His work continues to uplift the community and reinforce the value of youth-driven service in North St. Louis County.

Craft Beer Spotlight: Narrow Gauge Brewing’s 8-Time Medal Victory

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Narrow Gauge Brewing Company sign on exterior wall

Photo by Jordan Palmer

FLORISSANT, MO – November 18, 2025 – Narrow Gauge Brewing made local and statewide history this month, earning 8 medals—including 4 Golds—at the inaugural Missouri Beer Cup. The Florissant-based brewery proved it’s more than just a hazy IPA powerhouse, taking home awards across a wide range of beer styles.

Brewing Excellence on Display

Organized by the Missouri Craft Brewers Guild, the Missouri Beer Cup is the first professional competition celebrating breweries across the state. Narrow Gauge Brewing medaled in eight different categories, earning top honors in classic styles and fan favorites alike:

  • Gold: Atlantic – English-Style Ales – Other
  • Gold: Vienna Lager – American Amber or Red / Vienna
  • Gold: Helles Gamed – Munich-Style Helles or Dortmunder
  • Gold: Old Town Porter – Porters
  • Silver: FloMO Pils – Bohemian-Style Pilsener
  • Silver: Mullanphy’s – Irish-Style Red Ale
  • Bronze: OJ Run – Juicy or Hazy Imperial/Double IPA
  • Bronze: Peanut Butter & Stout – Stouts – Adjunct

The success reflects a balance of old-world brewing precision and modern innovation. Their popular hazy IPA, OJ Run, continued its medal-winning streak, while beers like Vienna Lager and Old Town Porter showcased mastery in traditional, technically demanding styles.

From Basement Beginnings to a Full Taproom

Founded in 2016 in the basement of Cugino’s Italian Bar & Grill, Narrow Gauge Brewing quickly outgrew its small footprint. In 2024, the brewery opened its own dedicated taproom at 1545 N Highway 67. The new space offers 24 rotating taps and maintains a strong partnership with Cugino’s—customers can still order food delivered straight to their table.

Kid-friendly, dog-friendly, and proudly tied to local railroad history (from which it takes its name), Narrow Gauge Brewing is now firmly planted as one of the top craft breweries in Missouri.

LIV Golf Officially Shifts to 72 Holes for 2026 Season

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LIV Golf Club 54 fans gather before tournament format change

LIV Golf will officially transition to a 72-hole tournament format, beginning with its 2026 season opener in Riyadh, marking a bold departure from the 54-hole format it has maintained since its inception.

The Saudi-backed league announced the change as part of a broader strategic alignment with traditional tours, such as the PGA and DP World Tour. While the shotgun start and 54-player field will remain, the tournaments will now span four rounds—bringing LIV closer to golf’s global standards.

“Moving to 72 holes is the logical next step that strengthens the competition, tests us more fully, and delivers more of what the fans want,” said 2024 LIV individual champion Jon Rahm.

Weekly Format Changes, But Player Count Remains

Most LIV Golf events will now run from Thursday through Sunday, though the 2026 Riyadh event will begin on a Wednesday (Feb. 4) to align with the local weekend schedule.

Despite the added round, the field will remain capped at 54 players and no-cut rules are expected to stay in place. This ensures fans will see all top players compete across all four days, while preserving LIV’s team and individual competition elements.

Focus on Rankings Drives Format Change

One of the most pressing motivations for the change is LIV’s continued lack of Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points. LIV’s original 54-hole format was a key reason OWGR denied accreditation—effectively locking out its players from rising in the world rankings.

Without ranking points, LIV stars have seen their global status and eligibility for Major Championships decline. The shift to 72 holes aims to remove the format barrier, restoring competitive parity and addressing one of OWGR’s major objections.

Players Once Opposed, Now Support the Shift

According to LIV golfer Tyrrell Hatton, sentiment among players has shifted dramatically in just a year.

“I think of everyone who filled [the survey] out, there were only three guys initially who said ‘yes’ to moving to 72 holes,” Hatton shared in a recent press conference.

Many top players, including Rahm, have since lobbied for the change—believing that 72-hole events better prepare them for the physical and mental demands of major championships.

Golf World Responds with Mixed Reactions

The announcement has received mixed feedback from the broader golf community.

Rory McIlroy, a consistent defender of traditional tours, commented:

“It certainly puts them more in line with traditional golf tournaments… but it takes away from their disruptor identity.”

McIlroy also questioned whether the format change alone will be enough to secure OWGR points, hinting that LIV players may have already lost too much ground.

What This Means for LIV Golf’s Future

The 72-hole update represents a calculated gamble. LIV Golf is redefining its trademark speed and original format in hopes of achieving long-term credibility and entry into golf’s highest levels.

“This is a win for the League and the players,” Rahm added. “We are competitors to the core, and we want every opportunity to compete at the highest level.”

As LIV heads toward 2026, all eyes will be on whether this traditional turn earns the validation the league has been chasing since launch.

Archway Engraving and Trophies: A Trusted Florissant Staple

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Archway Engraving and Trophies logo featuring stylized arch and script font

For over 50 years, Archway Engraving and Trophies has been a trusted destination in Florissant, Missouri, providing custom awards, trophies, plaques, medals, and personalized gifts for the St. Louis region.

Custom Engraving and Awards for Every Occasion

Archway Engraving and Trophies specializes in fast, local service with a personal touch. Whether you’re celebrating a student-athlete, honoring an employee, or gifting a custom-engraved keepsake, the shop delivers reliable craftsmanship.

Core Services Include:

  • Trophies, plaques, and medals for schools, sports leagues, and corporate events
  • Customized gifts such as tumblers, cutting boards, ornaments, pens, and desk accessories
  • Quick turnaround, with many orders completed in one day

A Longstanding Reputation in North County

Since its inception in 1996, Archway Engraving and Trophies has built strong community ties and positive word of mouth.

  • Listed member of the Greater North County Chamber of Commerce
  • Consistently praised in online reviews for friendly service and attention to detail
  • Maintains a positive rating with the Better Business Bureau, though not formally accredited

Visit Archway Engraving and Trophies in Downtown Florissant

Address: 855 Rue St. Francois, Florissant, MO 63031
Phone: (314) 831-1165
Email: archwaytrophy@sbcglobal.net
Website: archwayengravingandtrophy.com

Hours of Operation:

  • Monday, Thursday, Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Tuesday & Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
  • Closed Saturday & Sunday
  • Note: Closed daily for lunch (sources vary: either 12–1 PM or 12–1:30 PM)

A Florissant Legacy: Inside Fischer’s Pro-Line Sports

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Fischer’s Pro-Line Sports storefront in Florissant, Missouri

A Community Fixture Since 1934

Fischer’s Pro-Line Sports Florissant has served North County families for nearly a century. What began in 1934 as a department store has evolved into a premier destination for sporting goods, custom apparel, and local team support, earning its reputation as both a family-owned business and a cornerstone of the Florissant community.

Founded by the parents of James “Jim” Fischer, the store relocated to South Florissant Road in 1954, where it still stands today. As national chains transformed the retail landscape, the Fischer family doubled down on local service, pro-line equipment, and community values—rebranding the shop to reflect that mission.

Fischer’s Pro-Line Sports and Florissant: Built Together

This business has always been more than a store. Jim Fischer was a civic leader, serving as a founding member of the Rotary Club of Florissant and playing a key role in local events and developments, including the “Kids Fishing” program and the North County YMCA.

Today, the next generations of the Fischer family continue to run the business with the same values. They sponsor events like the Florissant St. Patrick’s Parade, support local schools and sports teams, and offer fundraising solutions through their custom apparel programs.

What Fischer’s Offers Today

Custom Team Gear & Uniforms

Whether it’s outfitting a school sports team or printing business polos, Fischer’s provides high-quality embroidery and printing on brands like Sport-Tek and Port & Company.

Letterman Jackets

They remain a top local destination for letterman jackets—still a beloved symbol for student-athletes across the region.

Pro-Line Equipment

Fischer’s stocks major name-brand sports gear for baseball, football, and other core athletics, with top sellers from Rawlings and more.

Local Fan Apparel

Sports fans can gear up with local favorites, including Cardinals and Blues merchandise perfect for game day.

From its deep local roots to its forward-thinking services, Fischer’s Pro-Line Sports Florissant remains one of North County’s most trusted businesses—built on legacy, family, and personal service.

Visit Fischer’s Pro-Line Sports

Address: 785 S. New Florissant Rd, Florissant, MO 63031
Phone: (314) 921-6300
Hours:
Mon–Fri: 10 AM – 7 PM
Sat: 10 AM – 5 PM
Sun: 12 PM – 4 PM

Florissant Tree Planting Event 2025: Grow Together at Koch Park

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Florissant Tree Planting Event 2025: Grow Together at Koch Park

Residents Invited to Help Plant 40 Trees at Koch Park

FLORISSANT, MO – Residents are encouraged to take part in the Florissant tree planting event happening Saturday, November 8, 2025, at Koch Park starting at 10:00 AM. The initiative invites the community to “Let’s Grow Together in Florissant!” by planting 40 trees along the park’s walking path.

The event provides a hands-on way for neighbors to connect while making a lasting impact on the environment. All planting tools will be supplied by the city, along with complimentary water and snacks. Volunteers are simply asked to bring their energy—and, if they prefer, gloves.

This effort is made possible through a partnership with Forest Releaf, a nonprofit organization that donated all 40 trees for the day. Organizers describe the event as a fun, impactful way to beautify the park and contribute to the city’s green future.

Whether you’re an experienced gardener or simply looking for a meaningful weekend activity, this community gathering is a great way to give back and watch something grow—literally.

Michael Brennan Wins Bank of Utah Championship 2025

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In just his third PGA TOUR start, Michael Brennan secured a wire-to-wire win at the Bank of Utah Championship 2025, held at Black Desert Resort in Ivins, Utah. Brennan, playing on a sponsor’s exemption, delivered a final-round 5-under 66 to finish at 22-under par and take home his first professional title.

His four-shot victory over runner-up Rico Hoey earned him the $1.08 million winner’s share of the $6 million purse and a two-year PGA TOUR exemption through the 2027 season.

Brennan’s Win Was Historic

The 23-year-old former Wake Forest standout is the first sponsor exemption to win on the PGA TOUR since Nick Dunlap in January 2024. Brennan’s front-nine performance on Sunday—featuring five birdies and zero bogeys—showcased a level of poise and consistency beyond his years.

What This Means for Brennan’s Career

With this win, Brennan:

  • Skips the Korn Ferry Tour entirely
  • Gains immediate PGA TOUR status
  • Secures entries into elite events like the PGA Championship and RBC Heritage
  • Joins a rare group of players since 1970 to win a TOUR event within their first three starts

This moment caps an already impressive year for Brennan, who topped the PGA TOUR Americas standings with three wins earlier in the season.

How Battling Together Turned Tragedy Into Action

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Green memorial bench with the inscription “Remember To Keep Living The Dream” in honor of Randy Brandt

Battling Together fights blood cancer by transforming loss into action, purpose, and hope. Born from the passing of Randy Brandt in 2021 due to Lymphoma, this nonprofit’s mission is both personal and powerful. Through fundraising, community involvement, and their annual golf tournament, the organization fuels critical work to support the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS).

Honoring a Life, Fueling a Mission

Battling Together is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded by Randy Brandt’s family and friends after his passing. Determined to continue his legacy, the organization focuses on funding research, supporting patients, and raising awareness for leukemia and lymphoma. Randy’s personal motto, “Living the Dream”, remains a guiding light in all that the nonprofit does.

The Randy Brandt Memorial Golf Tournament

The annual Randy Brandt Memorial Golf Tournament is the organization’s flagship fundraising event. It brings community members together not just for a day of golf, but to take meaningful action in the fight against blood cancer.

  • All proceeds go directly to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society
  • Funds support research for new treatments and potential cures
  • Donations provide patient services, advocacy, and family resources

How the Community Makes a Difference

Participation in the golf tournament takes many forms. Whether you’re playing, sponsoring, or donating, each contribution supports critical progress in the battle against leukemia and lymphoma. The tournament offers:

  • A unifying event rooted in hope and remembrance
  • A direct way to turn grief into impact
  • An opportunity to grow awareness and mobilize support

Living the Dream: A Legacy in Action

“Living the Dream” wasn’t just something Randy said—it’s a philosophy Battling Together has adopted as its own. That spirit is present in every swing of the club, every donation, and every story shared. The tournament is more than a game—it’s a movement grounded in purpose.

Why It Matters

Battling Together continues to grow its reach and amplify its mission. As blood cancers continue to affect thousands each year, this grassroots effort plays a vital role in supporting scientific breakthroughs and compassionate care. The organization shows how one life—and one community—can make a lasting difference.

How Team Europe Clinched the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black

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Team USA golfers watch the scoreboard during the final day of the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black

Team Europe defeated the United States 15–13 at the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black, marking their first win on American soil since 2012. While the final score suggests a close contest, Europe dominated the early stages, and Team USA’s furious comeback on Sunday ultimately fell just short.

Europe’s Fast Start Sets the Tone

Team Europe established firm control over the first two days of the competition, entering the Sunday singles with a commanding 11.5–4.5 lead—the largest two-day advantage in Ryder Cup history.

  • Rory McIlroy and Tommy Fleetwood were unstoppable, forming one of Europe’s most effective pairings and setting the tone early.
  • Fleetwood finished as Europe’s top point scorer for the week.
  • On the American side, World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler failed to win any of his team matches, going 0–4 on Friday and Saturday.

Sunday Singles: Team USA Almost Makes History

Despite the deficit, Team USA delivered an inspired performance during the singles matches. The Americans won the session 8.5–3.5, coming within one point of completing the greatest comeback in Ryder Cup history.

  • Cameron Young, a New York native, defeated Justin Rose 1-up with a clutch birdie on the 18th.
  • Justin Thomas stayed undefeated in Ryder Cup singles by beating Fleetwood 1-up.
  • Scottie Scheffler redeemed his early-week losses with a 1-up win over McIlroy.
  • Bryson DeChambeau staged a remarkable rally from five down to halve his match with Matt Fitzpatrick.

Hovland’s Injury Adds Late Drama

Just before the singles began, Europe’s Viktor Hovland withdrew with an injury, resulting in a halved match and giving Team USA a crucial point without playing. The score moved to 12–5, putting more pressure on the European side.

Shane Lowry’s Birdie Retains the Cup

With the Americans closing in, Ireland’s Shane Lowry delivered a critical half-point, draining a six-foot birdie putt on the 18th hole to tie his match against Russell Henley. That put Europe at 14 points—enough to retain the Ryder Cup.

Hatton Secures the Win for Europe

The final full point came when Tyrrell Hatton halved his match with Collin Morikawa, officially giving Europe the 14.5 points needed to win the Cup outright.

Bethpage Black: New York’s Premier Public Golf Destination

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Warning sign at Bethpage Black golf course advising that the course is extremely difficult and recommended only for highly skilled golfers

Bethpage State Park in Farmingdale, New York, is widely regarded as one of the top public golf destinations in the country. Best known for its legendary Black Course, the park features five 18-hole layouts and a rich history of hosting major championships. As the site of the upcoming 2025 Ryder Cup, Bethpage Black continues to solidify its reputation as a crown jewel of American public golf.

A Historic Park with a Championship Legacy

Bethpage State Park was established in the early 1930s when the Bethpage Park Authority purchased the Lenox Hills Country Club and surrounding land. Famed architect A.W. Tillinghast was commissioned to design three new courses: the Black, Red, and Blue. The existing Lenox Hills course was redesigned into today’s Green Course, and in 1958, the Yellow Course was added by Alfred Tull to meet growing demand.

Bethpage Black: A True Test of Golf

The Black Course is considered one of the most challenging public golf courses in the world. A warning sign greets players at the first tee:
“WARNING – The Black Course Is An Extremely Difficult Course Which We Recommend Only For Highly Skilled Golfers.”

Known for its narrow fairways, deep rough, steep bunkers, and fast greens, the course is a walking-only course, adding physical demands to its strategic difficulty. Its reputation draws skilled amateurs, professionals, and golf fans from around the globe.

The Overnight Line and Booking Process

Playing the Black Course is a bucket-list experience, and securing a tee time is famously competitive. One of golf’s most enduring traditions lives in the overnight car line, where golfers sleep in their vehicles in numbered parking spots to secure limited “walk-up” tee times for the next day.

While online booking is now the primary method for making reservations, securing a tee time remains challenging. New York residents can book up to seven days in advance; non-residents can book up to five days in advance. Tee times often sell out within minutes, keeping the overnight line tradition alive for those who miss out on online sales.

A Proven Championship Venue

Bethpage Black has hosted some of golf’s most prestigious events, including:

  • 2002 U.S. Open – The first truly public course to host the championship
  • 2009 U.S. Open – Returned after the success of 2002
  • 2012 & 2016 The Barclays – FedExCup Playoff events on the PGA Tour
  • 2019 PGA Championship – Further cemented Bethpage’s status as a major venue

Looking ahead, Bethpage Black will host the 2025 Ryder Cup, followed by the 2028 KPMG Women’s PGA Championship and the 2033 PGA Championship.

The Other Courses at Bethpage

While the Black Course gets the spotlight, the other four layouts offer diverse playing experiences for golfers of all skill levels:

  • Red Course – A Tillinghast design featuring tough par-4s and a challenging opening hole
  • Blue Course – A mix of difficulty and forgiveness, especially with a more relaxed back nine
  • Green Course – Originally Lenox Hills, this is a flatter, beginner-friendly course
  • Yellow Course – The newest and most forgiving layout, though still featuring some elevation

A Public Gem with Championship Prestige

Bethpage State Park has earned its nickname as “The People’s Country Club.” With five unique courses, a celebrated history, and an unmatched reputation in public golf, it stands among the most accessible yet challenging golf destinations in the world.