Tuesday, March 20, 2012

The Greatest Game Ever?

By Steve Stranghoener

I’ve been following Suburban North Conference sports for a long time, even before I had a chance to participate myself as a Hazelwood Hawk back in the early 1970s. Someone asked me recently what I thought was the greatest single game of all time. Under furrowed brow, I massaged my chin as my brain engaged and lurched through a process of elimination. So many sports to choose from! How about those great Ritenour baseball teams; perhaps a game featuring Jerry Reuss who later played for the Cards? Or how could I overlook the Huskie’s grapplers with that amazing string of state wrestling championships back in the day? Why not basketball, track & field, volleyball, hockey or cross country? Well, I thought, football is my favorite sport so let’s start there. 

Next I had to zero in on one local school. McCluer won two state titles under Steve Pisarkiewicz before he left for Mizzou and was later drafted in the first round by the St. Louis Football Cardinals. St. Charles High, a former SNC member, terrorized opponents with running back extraordinaire Curtis Brown who also went on to Mizzou before replacing infamous NFL legend OJ Simpson in Buffalo. Hazelwood Central won it all in 1985 with one of the best players ever to come out of this area, Tony Van Zant. As the Parade All-America Player of the Year this galloping gazelle was destined to boost Mizzou’s sagging fortunes before his ill-fated knee injury in his final high school all-star game. Has anyone had more success than Coach Rick Gorzynski at Hazelwood East in developing players for NCAA Division I and NFL careers? Selfishly, I wanted to peg my Hazelwood team’s 1972 trip to the state championship against Kansas City Southwest. We still own the distinction of the only state championship game to end in a tie. And a young Rick Gorzynski was an assistant coach on that team. Nah, come to think of it, that was one of the most depressing games of all times. To come that far, for the first time in school history, and have to settle for a tie because of the horrendously sloppy field conditions at Washington University’s Francis Field still leaves a sour taste in our Hawk beaks. It would not be fair to single out one school on the basis of accomplishments, statistics, excitement or sheer entertainment value. These things are all open to debate among reasonable people so I’ll just have to go with my heart. 

Although I was a Hawk through and through, I have adopted Pattonville since all my kids attended there. You’d be right in branding me as biased but at least I’m honest about it … my heart bleeds Pirate green. Whew … with that settled we still have quite a task ahead. PHS has a rich gridiron tradition, especially under legendary Coach Don Greco who grew up in the SNC patrolling the trenches at Riverview Gardens before starring at Western Illinois and carving out a stellar NFL career clearing the way for Billy Sims with the Detroit Lions. Under Coach Greco, the Pirates had many memorable seasons, outstanding records, conference championships and a long string of playoff appearances. They pulled off some stunning upsets along the way too against powerhouse teams. But one season stands out for the simple reason that it was the only time in Pattonville’s storied past that they made it all the way to the state finals in 2000. Are you ready to move on? Well, not so fast! We still need the winnowing fork. Unfortunately, PHS lost in the final to a very talented Rockhurst team led by freshman phenomenon, Tony Temple, in a competitive effort. Is there another game that stands out in this most special season? Unfortunately, there are two that stick out in my mind so, with tongue firmly in cheek; I’ll have to recount the two “greatest games” if you’ll afford me that discretion. 

The first game was actually a loss. What, you say … how can a Pirate defeat be deemed “greatest”? Bear with me sports fans and I think you’ll understand. There was electricity in the air as the juggernaut from Columbia Hickman invaded Pirate Nation on Friday night, September 29th, 2000. Fireworks erupted early and often in this epic shootout as the two titans traded touchdowns like two heavyweights exchanging haymakers toe-to-toe in the middle of the ring. On more than one occasion the Kewpies led the home town heroes by two touchdowns only to see the boys in green come roaring back. The stands were packed with delirious fans who cheered wildly as one magical moment after another crashed all around like relentless waves pounding the seashore. As the clock wound down on this marathon thrill-fest, the score stood at an incredible Hickman 63, Pattonville 56. There was less than a minute left and Hickman had the ball near mid-field. It was time for the fans to catch their breath since the end was inevitable with Hickman holding the ball near mid-field and the Pirates without a timeout remaining. But, against all odds and reason, hearts were still pounding with the faint hope that one more miracle would occur. Then on fourth down with just a few seconds left, the unthinkable happened. Hickman’s QB dropped back and scurried out of the pocket to run out the clock and a Pattonville defender swooped in and knocked the ball loose. It bounded away like a jack rabbit only to be scooped up by an opportunistic Pirate. As the gun sounded, he sprinted toward the end zone to tie the game and send it into overtime. The Kewpie QB had the angle and met the sprinting Pirate inside the five yard line and barely knocked him out of bounds to preserve Columbia Hickman’s victory. Yes, it was a Pirate loss but the game was a masterpiece of guts, determination, iron will and thrills. Many records were set that night. At 119 points it still stands as the fifth highest combined score in state history and, as far as I know, the highest in the large school record books. Losing such a hard fought nail biter could have been devastating to the team but it brought out the best in them. They made it through the fire and were refined as gold, preparing them to make history in the season ahead. 

There’s only one way to top such an iconic game … and that, of course, is with a victory. With a tip of the cap to all of the other great Pirate victories, I must contend that there was never as much on the line as there was on Saturday November 18, 2000. Both teams were seeking their first trip to the state finals. When the mighty Patriots of Parkway South (10-0) rolled into Pattonville Stadium to square off with the Pirates (10-2), the stands were jammed with nearly 5,000 fans including temporary bleachers and standing room only. The buzz was palpable as we gazed upon what I’ll call a three chopper game. There were three television news helicopters and a phalanx of media in place. There was some recent history and a cross-town rivalry that the media used to stoke the anticipation for this showdown. For me, this one was personal. One of my colleagues at work had a son on the opposing squad, a tight end named Tom Marsden who would score a go-ahead touchdown for the Patriots. South’s coach, Tom Dailey, was the son of a close business associate of mine, the late Ron Dailey. Most importantly, my son, Eric, was at the helm as QB for Pattonville. 

Parkway South was still smarting from Pattonville derailing their previous unbeaten season and they were on a mission to get payback. They were loaded with talent like linebacker Emmitt Morris, QB Josh Broeker and 262 pound fullback Andre Malone. Bridgeton’s local media treasure, Rich Gould, smelled a story and dispatched a KPLR crew to dredge the details. First they visited the Patriots who were practicing inside due to the bitter cold that week. There were taunts aplenty from players and even Coach Dailey who boldly threw down the gauntlet promising to reverse their fortunes against the Pirates this time. When Channel 11 visited Pattonville they found the Pirates outside braced against the frigid winds. Coach Greco knew better than to pamper his eager charges. The news team interviewed one player, old number 12, Eric Stranghoener. Most of the talking was done by the reporter who relayed the challenges issued by South. He hoped to bait the QB into a war of words. Eric was no fool and calmly offered this short reply, “Bring it on.” When Rich Gould ran the piece on Channel 11 the night before the game he chuckled and exclaimed, “That’s my neighbor Eric and he says, bring it on.”  

Both teams held up their end of the bargain. South’s stout defense stymied Pattonville’s potent running attack featuring Mizzou-bound Tyrone Roberson and SEMO-bound Chaun Tate. The Pirates offered strong resistance too, led by Illinois-bound middle linebacker Antonio Mason and Martin Nance. The future Minnesota Viking receiver, Nance, went both ways that day. The defensive struggle resulted in an 8-6 half-time lead for Parkway South. Both offensives came out ready in the second half. South put up two touchdowns and missed a two point conversion. Pattonville went to the air and Stranghoener threw a strike to Nance and added a two point conversion. After settling for a field goal, Stranghoener teamed up with Mike Montgomery for mind blowing 56 yard TD bomb to make the score 24-20 Pattonville. South was not done and was marching toward the end zone and a go-ahead score when Nance, now on defense, intercepted his second pass of the day to preserve the victory. The Patriots did bring it on that day but the Pirates were up to the challenge and would not be denied their first trip to the Dome. I think it’s safe to say it was the happiest day in the history of PHS football. 

I offer my apologies to all of the other local schools with the many other “greatest” games that I overlooked. As I admitted, this one was from the heart. My fondest wish is for the next generation of grid iron greats to regale us with fresh grist for the legend mill. Only time will tell but perhaps Coach Greco will return someday to lead Pattonville to the Promised Land again and take that last step in securing their first state title. It would only be fitting. This I know … old number 12 is doing his best to help the Pirates reload for glory. Watch out for Cooper and Luke come 2028! I hope you’ll tuck this away and share it with your little Pirates when their time comes.

Thursday, March 15, 2012

Budweiser Renews Olympic Sponsorship

King of Beers Continues Decades of Partnership with Extension through 2016

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. and ST. LOUIS, March 14, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Budweiser and the U.S. Olympic Committee today announced that the iconic beer brand is extending its exclusive malt beverage sponsorship and renewing its commitment to the USOC and Team USA through 2016.

Budweiser's partnership with the USOC spans nearly three decades and includes 14 Olympic Games and Olympic Winter Games. Budweiser has been an Olympic supporter since 1984 when the brand served as the official beer sponsor of the Los Angeles 1984 Olympic Games.

"This is great news for Team USA," said Scott Blackmun , chief executive officer of the USOC. "Budweiser has a long history with us, and we are grateful for their continued support of our U.S. Olympic and Paralympic athletes. Budweiser's commitment will allow our athletes to compete to the very best of their ability, and that is what the Olympic Movement is all about."

In line with previous commitments, Budweiser will continue to support its USOC sponsorship with significant media buys on NBC and affiliated networks during the Olympic Games. Additionally, Budweiser will receive entitlement of the Bud Deck at the London USA House, a private facility that hosts members of the USOC, the U.S. Olympic Team, corporate partners, sponsors, suppliers and licensees.

"Team USA athletes define commitment to excellence and we are proud to show our support for them as they represent the United States in competition." said Rob McCarthy , vice president, Budweiser. "With the London 2012 Games only months away, Budweiser will join all Americans in celebrating the success of Team USA."

Budweiser will also be featuring five U.S. Olympic hopefuls – Tony Azevedo, water polo; Jordan Burroughs, wrestling; Hyleas Fountain and Leo Manzano, track & field; and Sarah Groff, triathlon – on point-of-sale retail materials and will introduce a limited edition Olympic-themed 16 oz. aluminum bottle in June.

In addition to the USOC partnership, Budweiser is the official beer sponsor of the U.S. Soccer Federation and the U.S. Ski and Snowboarding teams. The beer brand will also sponsor the U.S. Olympic Team Trials for diving in Federal Way, Wash., from June 17-24; swimming in Omaha, Neb., from June 25-July 2, and gymnastics in San Jose, Calif., from June 28-July 1.

About the USOC
Founded in 1894 and headquartered in Colorado Springs, Colo., the U.S. Olympic Committee serves as both the National Olympic Committee and National Paralympic Committee for the United States. As such, the USOC is responsible for the training, entering and funding of U.S. teams for the Olympic, Paralympic, Youth Olympic, Pan American and Parapan American Games, while serving as a steward of the Olympic and Paralympic Movements throughout the country. For more information, visit TeamUSA.org.

About Anheuser-Busch
Based in St. Louis, Anheuser-Busch is the leading American brewer, holding a 47.7 percent share of U.S. beer sales to retailers. The company brews Budweiser and Bud Light, two of the world's largest-selling beers. Anheuser-Busch also owns a 50 percent share in Grupo Modelo, Mexico's leading brewer. Anheuser-Busch is a major manufacturer of aluminum cans and has been a leading aluminum recycler for more than 30 years. The company is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Anheuser-Busch InBev, the leading global brewer, and continues to operate under the Anheuser-Busch name and logo. For more information, visit www.anheuser-busch.com.

SOURCE Anheuser-Busch

Friday, March 2, 2012

March 2012 Artist of the Month

With corporate success as his springboard, Bridgeton man fulfills his dream of writing novels with suspenseful themes and inspirational messages.

Steve Stranghoener was born in St. Louis, raised in Florissant, graduated from Hazelwood High School and earned a B.S. in education with a major in history from the University of Missouri.  He taught history and coached football and track at McCluer High School and social studies at Hazelwood West High School before embarking on a business career at McDonnell Douglas Corporation.  Steve and his wife, Bonnie, moved their family to Bridgeton in 1986, the same year he joined Anheuser-Busch Companies, Inc.  The Stranghoeners are members of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bridgeton where Steve serves as chairman of the board of elders.  He earned his master’s degree in business management from Maryville University in 1987.  Steve and Bonnie’s three children graduated from Pattonville High School and the University of Missouri.  Steve is an avid sports fan and enjoys local athletics.  He helped to form the inaugural edition of the Pattonville Pirates Football Booster Club and served as the first president.

Steve left Anheuser-Busch in December 2009 to pursue his adolescent dream of becoming an author.  In the past two years he has penned four books.  He likes to bridge the gap between the secular and spiritual worlds writing fantasies, thrillers and murder mysteries from a Christian perspective.  Steve’s aim is to write tales of suspense and intrigue that can stand up to anything available in the commercial realm while delivering a thought-provoking and inspirational message based on rock solid theology.  He delights in St. Louis settings that highlight local landmarks such as St. Ann’s very own treasure, Northwest Plaza (see Tracts In Time).  Steve and Bonnie have three, soon to be four, young grandchildren that they are certain will aspire to be proud PHS Pirates someday and part of the fabric of our Rock Road Community. 

Brief overviews of Steve's novels:



In Murder By Chance, a baffling rampage by what appears to be a bloodthirsty beast serves as an unlikely backdrop for an exploration of man's origin. This whodunit takes the form of a whatdidit as forensic evidence leads to a werewolf panic and raises the question of whether we are the product of random chance or a creator God.



Asunder: The Tale of the Renaissance Killer brings to mind what might happen if you folded The Silence of the Lambs into The Shack. It's a bizarre amalgam that is repugnant while uplifting; repulsive while instilling hope with its astounding visions of heaven and hell. Asunder is a study in good versus evil and the stunning transformations that can occur as our old and new natures battle tooth and nail within our hearts, minds and souls.



In The Last Prophet: Imminent End, JD Uticus is torn from his mundane lifestyle by a miraculous occurrence, his tragic death witnessed by millions of people and astounding resurrection that thrusts him into the public eye, dubbed as the Last Prophet with a message from God about the end of the world as we know it. Its an apocalyptic thriller whose fabric is woven with an erudite treatment of the most compelling questions facing mankind ... when will this world meet its imminent end and then, what lies beyond in the eternity that stretches out ahead?



In Tracts In Time, Baker Paulson must experience a precarious journey through time to save the life of his grandson Ike. In an ironic twist, Baker and Ike encounter a time twisting memory portal in of all places, a dead shopping mall, Northwest Plaza, that holds so many fond memories from Baker's youth. In a literal race against time, Baker finds the true meaning of life in struggling to save his beloved grandson.

Steve Stranghoener's books are available at Amazon.com and BarnesandNoble.com. For more information about Steve and his links to social media, please visit : http://stevestranghoener.authorsxpress.com/