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Fish fry Fridays kicks off in St. Louis to a snowy start

Some parishes canceled their events as a result, while others welcomed those who could make it out.

ST. LOUIS — Friday’s snow couldn't stop a St. Louis tradition – fish fry season. While some Catholic churches felt the need to cancel, others told the crowds to come on out.

On the opening night of fish fry season in St. Louis, there's a familiar face working the dining hall at St. Pius V Catholic Church.

"I do every fish fry,” 71-year-old volunteer, Joe Fontana, said.

He said he proudly grew up in the church and fulfilled his mission as a steward. He cleaned tables and served as a former janitor.

Fontanta's service mattered because a crowd of folks braved the slushy roads and snow to participate in the annual fundraiser.

"We like to enjoy the snow when it comes. It doesn't come very often anymore … we did some sledding, and we came to St. Pius for the fish fry,” fundraiser event attendee, Sarah Trone, said.

While some parishes canceled, St. Pius welcomed those who could make it.

"We usually have two separate lines but because of the snow, we didn't want people walking up our ramp over here so we quickly made it one line,” event organizer, Tom Knaup, said.

Supporters were greeted with a variety of fixings.

"Fried (and) baked cod, fried catfish, potato salad, green beans, mac and cheese, cole slaw and apple slaw,” Knaup said. 

"I love the catfish and the cole slaw,” Trone said. 

There’s even live Irish folk music.

"For us this is warmth. This is a neighborhood,” Knaup said. "Dozens of people working together for a common good."

The event became a benefit for the Catholic Church and created fellowship and goodwill. 

Joe would have it no other way.

Seeing guests enjoy themselves gives him the momentum to keep coming back.

"I love it. I just love it," he said.

Fish fry fundraisers will happen at area churches for the next five Fridays. To find one near you, click here.

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