West Newsmagazine News

West Newsmagazine is West St. Louis County's exclusive direct-mailed community newspaper.

Despite slow start, Ellisville fundraiser will return next year

By Ted Dixon Jr.

A trivia night held April 26 at St. John’s Lutheran Church to benefit the families of the victims of the February shootings at Kirkwood City Hall was not as successful as originally hoped. However, the organizer said she will hold the same event next year.

Kelly Pavlack, wife of Ellisville City Councilmember Charles Pavlack (ward 3) said the "The Friends of Ellisville" event grossed approximately $1,400, short of the expected number.

"We had eight or nine tables, but it was better than nothing," Pavlack said.

Pavlack said she hit up several local publications and television stations to help publicize the event. She said she was disappointed with the outcome, but did not feel deterred as to continuing with the event next year. Pavlack said she was unaware that the nearby Ballwin VFW was holding a similar trivia night.

"Everyone one who came had a good time," Pavlack said.

Pavlack said that the proceeds will go to a trust fund at Eagle Bank and will be distributed to the families of Kirkwood City Councilmembers Michael Lynch and Connie Carr, Kirkwood Public Works Director Kenneth Yost, Kirkwood Police Sgt. William Biggs and Kirkwood Police Officer Tom Ballman.

The top Kirkwood official was appreciative of the efforts to assist the families of the fallen. Newly-elected Kirkwood Mayor Art McDonnell said folks from outside of Kirkwood have been very supportive of the families. He added that it speaks highly of those who wish to aid those in need.

"It's more responsible for all of us to help each other," McDonnell said.

In addition, to help the families of Ballman and Biggs, donations may be made to Backstoppers, P.O. Box 66927, St. Louis, MO 63166. To assist the children of Ballman, donations may be sent to the Tom Ballman Family Trust Fund, c/o U.S. Bank, 141 Hilltown Village, Chesterfield, MO 63017.

Accounts also have been set up for the families of Yost, Karr and Lynch. Donations made payable to "Eagle Bank" will be accepted at any Eagle Bank branch or they can be sent to Eagle Bank, 1052 S. Kirkwood Road, Kirkwood, MO 63122.