SUMMARY: The Mertens family, from St. Peters, honors their late daughter Ella, who died from a congenital heart defect (CHD) eight years ago, by raising awareness and funding for CHD research. Today, on what would have been Ella’s ninth birthday, the family reflects on her life and their mission. They founded Ella’s Umbrella, partnering with Heartpoint Global to fund technological advancements and support the St. Louis Children’s Hospital’s XMR suite for complex procedures. They aim to prevent other families from experiencing their loss. Recently, a fundraiser for Ella’s Umbrella highlighted their ongoing commitment to this cause.

Friday, April 4, would have been Ella Mertens’ 9th birthday. But eight years ago, she died from a congenital heart defect, which impacts one in every 100 newborns.

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SUMMARY: Wall Street suffered its worst week since the COVID-19 crash, with the S&P 500 dropping 6% Friday after China matched President Trump’s new 34% tariffs. The trade war, escalating rapidly, threatens a global recession despite strong U.S. job growth. The Dow fell 2,231 points and the Nasdaq slid into bear market territory. Stocks tied to China, like DuPont and GE Healthcare, plunged. Oil and copper prices dropped amid fears of weakened growth. While the Fed may cut rates, inflation concerns could limit action. Trump, unfazed, suggested tariffs are a path to prosperity. Global markets and investors are bracing for more turmoil.

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SUMMARY: The 17th annual Roberts French Film Festival, running through April 13th, celebrates French cinema and cuisine. This year’s theme is food, featuring nine films over two weekends. The festival includes special food offerings, such as gluten-free macarons from Echo Dot French Pastries. Highlights include the Midwest premiere of *Holy Cow* and *The Best Feast*, both exploring food’s significance in French culture. In addition to the films, there will be activities like French lessons for kids. Tickets are available at the box office or online at sinema.stlouis.org. Don’t miss this opportunity to indulge in French culture and cinema.

Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of French cinema and delectable French pastries at the 17th Annual Roberts French Film Festival, running from April 4-13 at the Hi-Pointe Theatre.

This year, the festival takes on a delicious theme: French Cuisine. Attendees will experience not only some of the best French films, but also learn about the iconic French treat, the macaron, from Jim McKibben, owner of Le Macaron in Webster Groves.

17th Annual Roberts French Film Festival

Hi-Pointe Theatre, 1005 McCausland Avenue, St. Louis, MO

April 4 – 13, 2025

Visit CinemaStLouis.org for the full schedule and ticket information

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