Arts Today Ezine vol 3.10

Vol 3.10 |

December 20, 2016

5 Questions

with

ERIN RENÉE ROBERTS

MULTI-FACETED PERFORMANCE ARTIST, WRITER AND MODEL Photo Courtesy of: Andy Paulissen pg #28

View this and past issues from our website.

HOLIDAYS AT

HIJACKED?

BEN CARSON

pg. #12

pg. #34

pg.#68

OPERA THEATRE

DR. MALAIKA HORNE

BERNIE HAYES

In Memorium

Judge Richard Teitelman November 29, 2016 pg. 2

SUPREME COURT OF MISSOURI MOURNS LOSS OF ITS COLLEAGUE, JUDGE RICHARD B. TEITELMAN JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – It is with great sadness that the Supreme Court of Missouri acknowledges the passing

of its beloved colleague, Judge Richard B. Teitelman, at his home today in St. Louis. Judge Teitelman began his service on the state’s high court in March 2002 and served as its chief justice from July 2011 through June 2013. He was 69. In honor of Judge Teitelman, the Court cancelled oral arguments scheduled for today.

“Judge Teitelman had immense compassion for others,” Chief Justice Breckenridge said. “He dedicated himself, both personally and professionally, to ensuring that every person receives justice in our courts. He was always aware that each of his decisions impacted and changed the lives of real people, and he worked tirelessly to ensure that each decision was fair and just. He delighted in talking to both lawyers and the lay community about the law, and delighted in the success of his fellow lawyers and judges.”

Breckenridge continued, “Judge Teitelman’s love of justice and the law was paralleled only by his love of people. He provided support and encouragement to his friends in the things that mattered most to them. And he considered almost everyone he met a friend. He had a remarkable ability to retain and recall information about people and events, and to find connections with each of them. His seemingly boundless energy, enthusiasm, and empathy strengthened and gave hope to those around him in thoughtful and meaningful ways. Judge Teitelman will be missed tremendously.”

Teitelman was born September 25, 1947, in Philadelphia. He received his bachelor’s degree in mathematics in 1969 from the University of Pennsylvania and his law degree in 1973 from the Washington University School of Law in St. Louis.

He ran his own solo law practice until joining Legal Services of Eastern Missouri in St. Louis in 1975, working his way up through that organization’s leadership and serving almost two decades as its executive director and general counsel. He served as a judge of the Missouri Court of Appeals, Eastern District, from January 1998 through February 2002.

Teitelman was Missouri’s first Jewish and first legally blind judge. At his formal swearing-in ceremony at the Supreme Court, Teitelman paraphrased Helen Keller in telling the crowd, “For a committed life, one has to have fidelity to a noble purpose, and for me, that purpose has been the fight for justice.” But he added, “This installation is not about me. It is about the people I have worked with and the people I have served.”

Supreme Court Clerk Bill L. Thompson said, “Although legally blind, Judge Teitelman’s vision of compassion, generosity, and encouragement of others was perfect.”

Teitelman had a long commitment to public service and bar activities. He was a member of numerous local bar associations throughout the state and, for the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis, served as chair of its young lawyers section, chair of its trial section, secretary, vice president and president and also served as president of its bar foundation. At The Missouri Bar, Teitelman served as chair of the disabled, minority and diversity law committee of the young lawyers’ section, chair of the delivery of legal services committee, and member of both the board of governors and its executive committee. He was elected vice president and president-elect, the position he held at the time he was appointed to the Supreme Court. At the national level, Teitelman was very active with the American Bar Association. He was a past chair of its standing commission on mental and physical disability law, a member of its standing committee on pro bono and public service, a judicial division member of the standing committee on minorities in the judiciary, and was a lifetime sustaining fellow of the American Bar Foundation. He also participated in a number of civic and charitable activities, both in St. Louis as well as at the state and national levels. He also was a member of the Supreme Court of Missouri Historical Society.

In addition, Teitelman was honored with numerous awards throughout his career, including The Missouri Bar’s President’s Award, Spurgeon Smithson Award and Purcell Award for Professionalism; awards from the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis and Mound City Bar Association; and awards from the National Conference of Metropolitan Courts, the American Jewish Congress, the American Council for the Blind and the St. Louis Society for the Blind.

A memorial service for Judge Teitelman is scheduled for 2 p.m. Thursday, December 1 at Graham Memorial Chapel on the Washington University campus in St. Louis. Arrangements are under the direction of Berger Memorial Chapel, 9430 Olive Boulevard, St. Louis. ###

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

IN THIS

ISSUE:

6

IN THE NEWS POLITICAL HISTORY...

10 INFINITE SCHOLARS OP/ED

72

46 FEATURED ARTIST MARYLIN ROBINSON

OH SAY CAN YOU SEE? PIERRE BLAINE

118

94

LOVE OF FOOD: MOCK MY TAIL LENA O.A. JACKSON

FEATURED PHOTOGRAPHER MEL WRIGHT

pg. 4

LIVE / WORK / PLAY NATE JOHNSON

12

18

HOLIDAYS AT OPERA THEATRE

86

82 BOOK TOWN - USA'S YEAR ROUND SANTA VICKIE NEWTON

FEATURED ARTIST/EVENTS COCO SOUL A writer is a writer not because she writes well and easily, because she has amazing talent, or because everything she does is golden. A writer is a writer because even when there is no hope, even when nothing you do shows any sign of promise, you keep writing anyway.

Junot Diaz, Professor of Writing,

Winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, 2008

Established 2014 Volume 3.10 St. Louis, MO www.the-arts-today.com/ Layout/Design www.bdesignme.com

NOTE:

As the publishers of The Arts Today Ezine we take care in the production of each issue. We are however, not liable for any editorial error, omission, mistake or typographical error. The views expressed are those of the contributors and not necessarily those of their respective companies or the publisher.

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COPYRIGHT:

This Ezine and the content published within are subject to copyright held by the publisher, with individual articles remaining property of the named contributor. Express written permission of the publisher and contributors must be acquired for reproduction.

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pg. 6

IN THE NEWS

Your Source for Art Appreciation

Volume 2.1 March 4, 2015

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Volume 3.103.9 Volume December 20, 2016 www.the-arts-today.com November 26, 2016

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Jamaa Habari

For Your iIIInformation Kwanzaa

Desemba 26 – Januari 1

Background and History Kwanzaa is a lively, enriching, seven-day celebration of the Black value system called the Nguzo Saba, a term in the Kiswahili language of East and Central Afrika that literally means “Seven Pillars.” It is further translated to mean “Seven Principles.”

These Seven Principles are the foundations upon which Afrikan culture stands and are traced back to Afrikan antiquity.

These basic Black values can still be found in Afrikan communities throughout the Afrikan Diaspora. This survival is despite the effort by european forces to destroy all remnants of Afrikan culture and identity through the period of chattel slavery. This effort of using racial differences to subjugate a people, called racism, still continues today, thus making the celebration of Kwanzaa a clear act of cultural self–determination and pride.

Kwanzaa is in the Afrikan harvest celebration tradition and means “First Fruits.” It is celebrated from Desemba 26th through Januari 1st. Since its creation in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga and the US organization, it is estimated that over 30 million people worldwide celebrate Kwanzaa today. The holiday is celebrated to heighten our recognition and commitment to those seven basic values, passed to us by our ancestors and to provide a reinforcing, uplifting cultural celebration for Black people.

Kwanzaa is a non-religious and a non-heroic celebration.

The Nguzo Saba Umoja (Unity)- To strive for and maintain unity in self, family, community, neighborhood, nation race and world Kujichagulia (Self-Determination)- To define ourselves, name ourselves, create for ourselves and speak for ourselves instead of being defined, named, created for and spoken for by others Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility)- To build and maintain our community together and to make our sisters’ and brothers’ problems our problems, and to solve them together Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics)-To build and maintain our own stores, shops and other businesses and profit from them together Nia (Purpose)- To make as our collective vocation the building and developing of our community in order to restore our people to their traditional greatness Kuumba (Creativity)- To do always as much as we can, in the way we can, in order to leave our community more beautiful and beneficial than we inherited it Imani (Faith)- To believe with all our heart in our people, our parents, our teachers, our leaders and the righteousness and victory of our struggle

How it is Celebrated Each day of Kwanzaa is dedicated to one of the Nguzo Saba. Activities of that day reflect the principle of that day. The basic items used for Kwanzaa are the Mishumaa Saba (seven candles-3 red, 1 black and 3 green), a Kinara (candleholder) for seven candles, a Mkeka (straw mat), a Kikombe cha Umoja (Unity Cup) and Zawadi (gifts), given on the last day. The Mishumaa Saba are arranged in the Kinara–3 red on the left, 1 black in the middle and 3 green on the right. On each day of Kwanzaa, a candle is lit for that day. On the 1st day, the innermost black candle- Umoja– is lit and words are shared about Unity. Then, the Kikombe cha Umoja is passed to all present. Each person drinks from it and strongly says “Harambee!” meaning “We pull together!” On the 2nd day, the Umoja candle is lit, then the innermost red candle- Kujichagulia– then sharing about SelfDetermination. The next day, the previous candles are lit, then the innermost green candle- Ujima– then sharing. Continue outward each day, alternating colors, until all colors are lit on the 7th day-Imani. On the last day, a great celebration is held between many families called the Karamu (feast) . At the Karamu, the community comes together, eats and participates in activities centered on the Nguzo Saba.

For more information, visit our website- www.teachsociety.org, our page on Facebook, call (314)875-9277, or at ww.teachorg33@gmail.com.

pg. 8

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

pg. 10

OP / ED SECTION

Editorial Rebeccah Bennett TRUTH: This is not the first time that this country has been run by a bigot.

It is not the first time that we have experienced political isolation and social rejection.

Founder and principal of Emerging Wisdom LLC.

A

nd it is not the first time that we have had to figure out how to metabolize our grief and fear in ways that did not immobilize us, but caused us to actualize our power to change the world.

PERSPECTIVE: Right

and forefathers lived through horrors that were generational in scope and scale. They persisted through times when there was little chance of a better tomorrow, much less a better life – not even for their kids. Yet they responded to their lot in life by creating resistance movements, aid societies, educational and religious institutions, banks and co-ops, art forms, innovations and spiritual practices that continue to make our lives

now it might do us some good to call upon our ancestors for wisdom, strength and guidance. Our foremothers Copyright © 2016 - All rights reserved.

better today. Remember that their blood is our blood. Their strength is our strength. They are the ROOTS and we are their FRUITS.

PRAYER:

We call upon our ancestors, those upon whom the sky fell.

We call upon our ancestors who experienced all manner of degradation, humiliation, violation and death. We call upon our ancestors, people who swung from trees and were forced to live on their knees. We call upon our ancestors, many of whom persisted, survived and endured without destroying themselves or others. May whatever it is that nourished and sustained them come more fully alive in us. Ashe.

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

The Holidays at Opera Theatre:

Caroling, Artist Tour, Fundraising Celebration, Chocolate and Single Ticket Advance Sale during December pg. 12

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE OTSL website: www.ExperienceOpera.org

St. Louis, MO, November 30, 2016 – Opera Theatre of Saint Louis offers a range of ways to celebrate the holiday season this year. From an exclusive holiday opportunity to pre-purchase single tickets to the 2017 Festival Season before they go on sale to the general public to caroling at senior living communities in Webster Groves by OTSL Monsanto Artists-in-Training, Opera Theatre will present special events and offers during the month of December to make the holiday season brighter. Details continue below and on the pages to follow.

SINGLE TICKET ADVANCE SALE & HOLIDAY GIFT PACKAGE Now – Thursday, December 22 Box Office, Opera Theatre of Saint Louis Give the gift of opera and gourmet chocolates this holiday season with OTSL’s holiday gift package. This year’s beautifully packaged gift set includes a special, first-time offer – advance single tickets to the 2017 Festival Season, which features Puccini’s Madame Butterfly, the American premiere of Philip Glass and Christopher Hampton’s The Trial, the premiere of a new performing version of Ricky Ian Gordon and Michael Korie’s The Grapes of Wrath, Mozart’s Titus (La clemenza di Tito), and the annual Center Stage showcase concert by Gerdine Young Artists.

The gift package also includes delectable chocolate truffles from St. Louis’ own gourmet chocolatier Kakao Chocolates, available in quantities of 6 (for single tickets priced between $100-$249) or 16 (for tickets totaling $250 or above). Orders of $500 or more include a

set of 16 truffles and a commemorative set of Opera Theatre photography notecards. A flash drive containing general director Timothy O’Leary’s preview of the upcoming season with behind-the-scenes commentary is also included.

Holiday gift packages are available by ordering online at ExperienceOpera.org/HolidayGift or by calling the box office at (314) 961-0644. Gift sets can be picked up at the OTSL box office. For an additional $5, they can be mailed to the recipient’s home address. The last day to place an order for the holiday gift set for home delivery is Monday, December 19, 2016. Orders can be purchased for pick up at the box office through Thursday, December 22, 2016.

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

ANNUAL HOLIDAY CELEBRATION Sunday, December 11 at 6:00 p.m.

Old Warson Country Club. Ticketed event.

Opera Theatre hosts its annual Holiday Celebration, a black-tie event that features the annual tradition of guests caroling with OTSL’s Artists-in-Residence, followed by an elegant dinner and special performance by one of OTSL’s upcoming season artists – this year, tenor René Barbera. The OTSL Holiday Celebration chairmen are Daria and Ray Stranghoener. Tickets to the Opera Theatre Holiday Celebration are $250 per person and are nearly sold-out. To purchase tickets, or for more information, please contact Cameron James, OTSL Manager of Special Events, at (314) 963-4223 or by e-mail at cjames@opera-stl.org.

ARTISTS-IN-RESIDENCE ST LOUIS TOUR Tuesday, November 29 – Sunday, December 11 Various St. Louis area locations. Private event.

Former Gerdine Young Artists, soprano Katherine Jolly and baritone Robert Mellon with pianist Gail Hintz, present selections from wellknown opera and operetta repertoire, as well as Broadway and musical theater favorites. The 45-minute performance concludes with a question and answer session with the artists. The tour includes 18 private performances in Saint Louis area schools, senior living facilities, and juvenile detention centers. For more information, please visit www.opera-stl.org/explore-and-learn/for-teachers/artistsin-residence-2016.

pg. 14

CAROLING BY ARTIST-IN-TRAINING STUDENTS Wednesday, December 21 Webster Groves, Missouri. Private event.

Opera Theatre brings back a fun holiday tradition that began several years ago as Monsanto Artists-in-Training students sing carols for residents living at assisted senior living communities in Webster Groves, including Bethesda Orchard Senior Living, Pacific Place Senior Living and Sisters of Loretto. It’s a great opportunity for the Artists-in-Training students to sing and spend time together while sharing holiday cheer.

About Opera Theatre of Saint Louis Opera Theatre of Saint Louis is one of the leading American opera companies, known for a spring festival of inventive new productions, sung in English, featuring the finest American singers and accompanied by members of the St. Louis Symphony. As of its 2016 Festival Season, Opera Theatre has presented 25 world premieres and 26 American premieres — which may be the highest percentage of new work in the repertory of any U.S. company. Described by the Sunday Times of London as “one of the few American companies worth the transatlantic fare,” Opera Theatre of Saint Louis annually welcomes visitors from nearly every state and close to a dozen foreign countries. Although the size of the theater typically limits box office income to less than a quarter of the budget, the company has consistently produced work of the highest quality while never accumulating a deficit.

Opera Theatre also has a long tradition of discovering and promoting the careers of the finest operatic artists of the current generation. Among the artists who had important early opportunities at Opera Theatre are Christine Brewer, Susan Graham, Nathan Gunn, Patricia Racette, Thomas Hampson, Jerry Hadley, Dawn Upshaw, Matthew Polenzani, Sylvia McNair, Erie Mills, Dwayne Croft, Kelly Kaduce, and Lawrence Brownlee. Opera Theatre has always been known for distinguished leadership: founding general director Richard Gaddes was succeeded in 1985 by general director Charles MacKay, with famed British stage director Colin Graham as artistic director and Stephen Lord (1992 – present) as music director. Timothy O’Leary was named general director in October 2008 with acclaimed stage director James Robinson succeeding the late Colin Graham.

Opera Theatre of Saint Louis is funded in part by the Regional Arts Commission, Arts and Education Council, National Endowment for the Arts, and the Missouri Arts Council, with audience building programs supported by The Wallace Foundation.

Generous leadership support for the services of the St. Louis Symphony is provided by Jack C. Taylor and the Taylor family.

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

pg. 16

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

IVE WORK PLAY

Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016 St. Louis

L

et me first offer a thousand apologies for being away from you for so long. Fortunately, the real estate market has been keeping me and the team at Real Estate Solutions pretty busy helping our clients achieve their goals. Speaking of my team, our newest member, Joi, recently said that The autumn season brought golden sunshine and a kaleidoscope of leaves that dropped from the trees to lay a colorful tapestry at our feet.

After I wiped the tears from my eyes, I realized that I just have to let you know about some of the Fall activities to enjoy around St. Louis. The upcoming holidays and winter months, likewise, will kindle a spirit of excitement for things to do around town. There's a chill in the air, so bundle up as you head out the door... Join Real Estate Solutions as we take in some of the magic that St. Louis has to offer!

DECEMBER

5

thru

DECEMBER

11

On Monday and Tuesday morning, Whole Foods in Town and Country will host a free Story Hour Holiday Parade and Pizza with Santa!

Wednesday, attend Sip, Sketch, And Socialize: Design In Color with Aiden Douglas at the World Chess Hall of Fame starting at 6:30pm. $5.00 at the door. Free for members.

Rod Picott, a former construction worker, is building a name for himself with the guitar instead of tools.

He will perform soulful arrangements at The Stage at KDHX Thursday night, 7:30pm.

Friday marks the first in a 3-day series of appearances by Ambassadors of Harmony, a 140man chorus from St. Charles, performing "Sounds of the Season". Shows also on Saturday and Sunday.

At the Saint Louis Art Museum, yesterday's social norms as portrayed on television are analyzed in two video artworks by Dara Birnbaum: Technology/ Transformation: Wonder Woman and Kiss the Girls: Make them Cry. Hurry... on view through the end of this week, Sunday, December 11. Gallery 301.

Join me on Saturday to listen and learn from great speakers. TedxGatewayArch has scheduled various personalities to engage and educate at the Skip Viragh Center, (Chaminade High School).

Take a trip to the North Pole on the The Santa Express Train Ride Wednesday through Sunday, now through December 30, at Union Station. Also enjoy family-friendly indoor activities at the station,

pg. 18

Local Events DECEMBER

including toy making with Elfin, fudge making with the elves, and gingerbread house decorating at Gingerbread Junction.

Sweet!

Holiday Lights Be sure to check out the annual Garden Glow at the Missouri Botanical Garden, which features a million lights surrounded by unique installations. Take advantage of photo opportunities, traditional holiday music, food, and drinks in this winter wonderland. The display continues through New Year's Day. The Garden will be closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Also, check out the Wild Lights at the Saint Louis Zoo, which boasts top ratings in holiday zoo lighting as surveyed by USA Today. Also, we have compiled a list of our top Ten Sights for Holiday Lights that you can check out on the LivingSTL website.

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

IVE WORK PLAY

Start your work week right Monday night. Nobodys perform punk rock at Fubar, 3108 Locust Street, 7:30pm.

Tuesday evening there's bawdy comedy at Playhouse@Westport. Dixie's Tupperware Party will have you rolling in your seat. Showtime 7:30pm. Check the schedule for recurring shows through this Sunday, December 18.

DECEMBER

12 thru

DECEMBER

18

Finding Neverland will delight and inspire at the The Fabulous Fox on Wednesday.

Performances continue through Sunday, December 18.

On Thursday, Sara Evans makes a stop in St. Louis on her country music tour at the River City Casino & Hotel. Performance at 7pm. Tickets $39-$49.

A Holiday Benefit for Refugees & Immigrants will be a worthwhile event at The Heavy Anchor (5226 Gravois), Friday 7:30pm-1:00am. All proceeds go to The International Institute with a suggested donation of $7 and/or goods at the door will provide entry. Highlights include Chris Ward, The Vigilettes, The MERCS, Traveling Sound Machine, among others. Needed donations: gently used clothing and shoes in all sizes (including children's), winter items, furniture, household goods (towels, bedding, rugs, lamps, kitchenware), toiletries, toys, and diapers.

The St. Louis art scene confronts hot topics in the Kelly Walker exhibitions at the Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis: Schema and Direct Drive . What's all the talk about? Check it out now through December 31. The museum is closed Mondays.

Your pooch will enjoy a holiday event Saturday 12-2:30pm at Celebration of the Dog. Visit the American Kennel Club Museum of the Dog for photos with Santa, dog games, and talent contests, silent auction, raffle, food, free nail trimming and ear cleaning. Microchipping available for $25. Take part in the Ugly Sweater Contest for both dogs and humans! All breeds welcome. Must be on leash and

have shots up to date. Free.

Also on Saturday, I will be teaching "The Keys to Homeownership" at The Heights. This free monthly seminar is designed to educate people about the process of achieving home ownership. Real Estate Solutions believe that educating our clients is the best way to ensure that they are prepared to make good real estate decisions.

Children young and old will delight in a Swedish Breakfast with Santa, Sunday at IKEA in midtown, 9:30am to 11am.

pg. 20

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

IVE WORK PLAY

What happened The Night the Toys Came to Life at Bob Kramer's Marionnettes?

Find out this Monday through December 31.

I can't wait to check out The 442s Holiday Spectacular on Tuesday, featuring Jeremy Davenport, Erin Bode, Peter Martin, and others in concert at the E. Desmond Lee Concert Hall.

DECEMBER

19 thru

DECEMBER

25

Wednesday, don your warmest -- and ugliest -- sweater at the Ugly Sweater Party at Howl at the Moon, where dance and party beats will get you groovin' in your knits. Drink specials include Cinnamon Toast Shots. $200 cash/prizes for ugliest sweater. Think zig-zag patterns.

Meet author Richard Newman at the Webster Groves Public Library Thursday from 7-8:30pm. Newman is past editor of River Styx and other publications. He will read from and sign copies of his first novel, Graveyard of the Gods.

Get some Fresh Heir, as the band presents Believe, with Divine Hours, at Delmar Hall (next door to The Pageant) in The Loop. Friday at 7pm. Cost $10. Spirited sounds for all ages.

On Christmas Day, Pere Marquette Lodge prepares A Christmas Feast for you and your family! Take a scenic drive and a break from the kitchen. Enjoy a bountiful meal in a beautiful setting. 10am-4pm. Reservations required for parties of six or more. Prices vary.

pg. 22

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

IVE WORK PLAY

Candyland at ArtScope is part of School Daze Camp 2016-2017. Monday, 9:00am-3:00pm. Kids will construct sweetscapes like Gumdrop Forest, Peanut Brittle House, Candy Castle, and more.

DECEMBER

26 thru

DECEMBER

31

Check out the St. Louis Mercantile Library is Audubon and Beyond showcasing, through interactive programs, the library's contributions to St. Louis' exploration and education of the natural world.

Mark your calendar for Wednesday's Kwanzaa Celebration in the Delmar Loop, an event celebrating African culture and traditions at 4pm in the Market Plaza.

Take in the Kinara Lighting Ceremony and a performance by students from Bertha Knox Gilkey Pamoja Prep. Academy at Cole.

The Saint Louis Galleria hosts the Virtual Reality By Facebook roadshow event on Thursday, which continues through January 5, 2017. This is an innovative exploration into computerized virtual reality -- put on a headset, go to another place, stay where you are. East Garden Court, 7pm.

Visit the Missouri History Museum to view "Route 66: Main Street Through St. Louis", an exhibition highlighting our city's role in the making of this historic roadway. Also see "Toys of the '50s, '60s and '70s" and reminisce about favorite childhood playthings including Slinky, Gumby, Barbie, and more. Both exhibits are free.

Saturday is New Year's Eve! Ring in 2017 at Powell Symphony Hall. St. Louis Symphony New Year's Eve Celebration at 7:30pm. There's also Bollywood Night in Chesterfield at St. Louis Marriott West, 660 Maryville Centre Drive, 9pm-1am.

As you can see, there are plenty of great ways to enjoy St. Louis over the next month. I hope that you have a lovely holiday season, and a safe and prosperous new year! Please don;t hesitate to let me know if there is anything that I can do for you.

All the best. -Nate Nate K. Johnson ABR,CRS,GRI Broker/Owner Real Estate Solutions 314-575-7352 Direct 314-558-6025 Fax 314-514-9600 x 102 nate@livingstl.com | www.livingstl.com

pg. 24

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

Exhibit Opening: The Colored Section.

Provocative title. Provocative work

Visual artist John K. Blair opens his solo show tonight at UrbArts featuring 17 paintings from his collection.

Join us from 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm to view the art, for the artist talk, for open mic, and beat curation by Siddall tha Selecta. This event is free and open to the public.

About the Artist John K. Blair is a photographer and an artist. He's also a contributing writer for All the Art. He describes his work as deeply rooted in postmodern perspective and assumes that meaning is primarily subjective, created between the interaction of what is observed and experienced. pg. 26

An intensive writer’s workshop for writers who are at the final stages of completing their project, but need time, space, and professional assist to push through. The retreat also includes a professional development module that will cover publishing, and marketing processes to make sure your work gets out to the world.

C O M P L E T E T H A T W O R K I N P R O G R E S S Submit application and writing to: nightwritersstl@gmail.com 6 tuition paid spots available Submissions due by: December 1, 2016 by 11:59pm Retreat at Paul Artspace: January 20-22, 2017 & January 28-29, 2017 www.stlnightwriters.com

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

pg. 28

5

Questions with

ERIN RENÉE ROBERTS

Erin Renée Roberts is a multi-faceted performance artist, writer and model. Born and raised in St. Louis, she trained in ballet, jazz, tap, and contemporary dance from an early age. Erin expanded from dance training into theatrical performance. She trained with Slightly Askew Theatre Ensemble and is a lifetime member and follower of their Viewpoints & Suzuki ensemble training techniques. Erin also trained in physical theater styles of Lecoq, Biomechanics, and stage combat. She obtained her BFA in Theater-Acting from Seattle’s Cornish College of the Arts (CCA) in 2013 and premiered her one-woman thesis show, “Love Lessons Learned”. Since then she has toured the show to the Seattle Fringe Festival, St. Lou Fringe in St. Louis, Missouri and New York City.

needed to interact with Edward in such a way that he ends up launched/tossed/thrown into his next lesson.

As a child I loved to read and watch classical Hollywood movies.

I was a very smart, gifted student, so when it came time to figure out what I wanted to do as a career, I couldn't decide. I wanted to be everyone and everything. This is my favorite thing about this show...I play everything from a crow to a waitress from a little boy to an old lady.

Currently, she is starring in Metro Theater Company’s production "The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane” at the Missouri History Museum from December 9-30. Based on the multi-award winning book by Newbery Award-winner Kate DiCamillo, author of "Because of Winn Dixie” and "The Tale of Despereaux," and adapted for the stage by playwright Dwayne Hartford, the play explores love, family, friendship and adventure, and is best enjoyed by families, adults and children. It tells the story of Edward Tulane — a toy rabbit who cares for nobody but himself. Ripped from the arms of the little girl who adores him, this privileged toy rabbit is thrown into a life-changing adventure. From the depths of the ocean to the top of a garbage heap, Edward discovers what it means to love others on his extraordinary journey home. With themes of family, home and redemption, this play is the perfect way to celebrate the warmth of the holiday season.

1)

Arts Today: Tell us about your role in the “The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane.” What do love most about the play and your character?

Erin Renée Roberts: My role or character in Tulane is first and foremost Traveller who serves as the narrator. Added bonus: I am also weaving in and out of the story as Pellegrina the woman responsible for Edward's manufacturing.

She, as you will see or read in the play or book respectively, may be magical enough to be the reason why Edward goes on this miraculous journey.

The third tier of my role is as whatever character is

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2)

Arts Today: “The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane” is for audiences young and old, and it’s a fitting production for the holidays. In addition to the public performances, it’s also being presented to thousands of schoolchildren in the St. Louis area. Do you prepare your character and delivery differently knowing there are more children and young people in www.the-arts-today.com

Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

5 QUESTIONS... cont.

the audience?

Erin Renée Roberts: Short answer: No. Long answer: I've always treated kids like adults as far as attention and connecting is involved. I speak to them with respect and allow room for them to form their own opinions of the situation, not just to go along with what I say or do. I also watch and learn and do what seems to make sense to them so they can know the value their actions have on influencing me. So preparation is the same... same amount of commitment to script and character development. The frame of this script is à la Princess Bride...where I am checking in with the audience and making sure they are following along. I provide commentary, which is just as much for the adults as it is for the young audience members.

3)

Arts Today: In recent years you toured your one-woman show “Love Lessons Learned” around the country, and in the past year you performed with The Black Rep in “Sunset Baby” and Shakespeare Festival St. Louis’ production of “The World Begun.” What is it like for you to be back your hometown working with various local theatre companies?

4)

Arts Today: How does your strong background in dance affect your sense of and display of movement on stage?

Are you utilizing or incorporating those skills in this production?

Erin Renée Roberts: I like to approach my characters with shapes and rhythms. Moving with grace, with spacial awareness, and internalizing the characters theme songs (made up by me in the process of rehearsing and reading the script) makes my movement for each character different. Dance is the filter through which I am able to choose these movements. I haven't taken a formal dance class in years and to remedy that loss, I incorporate dance into every moment of every day... including my work on this production.

5)

Erin Renée Roberts:

To be back in St Louis working with so many great artists is absolutely amazing.

I'm satisfied in a way I never have been here or anywhere before. However, I am always ready to explore new places and learn more forms and meet new people, so St. Louis sometimes feels too comfortable or too familiar or the things that turn me off about St. Louis as a city, not as an art community...lead to me exploring and not working in Saint Louis as constantly as the local companies would like me to. But this past year has been an amazingly steady one for me and I couldn't be more grateful for working with The Black Rep, Shakespeare Festival St. Louis, starting my own company Creative Inhabitor, writing for Slightly Askew, doing Every28Hours...I have nothing to complain about and am NOT taking these experiences for granted.

pg. 30

Arts Today: What do you think audience will enjoy most about “The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane”?

Erin Renée Roberts: Seeing the different Edward costumes. Meeting the new characters. The music. Seeing this book come to life...there are so many more magical things that occur in the book that aren't in our 75 minute piece, but the main nuggets are there and I think the fans of the book will be happy to see who shows up next.

“The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane” is the perfect holiday treat for kids and families.

Public performances are December 9-30, 2016 at the Missouri History Museum’s Lee Auditorium.

For tickets or more information, visit www.metroplays.org.

To follow Erin Renée Roberts, visit erroberts.tumblr.com.

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Looking for a new TEEN READ for your young reader?

Check out Quincy Rules by DuEwa Frazier!

Mystery + teen sleuthing...

Imagine receiving mysterious letters and cards with no return address, only colorful stamps from all around the world. These letters and cards tell little about the person who sends them, other than the fact that the sender, is the father you have never met. Quincy Lyles is a 15-year old teen who mastered yoga at a young age, gets straight A's in school and never gets into trouble. That is, until she starts to search for her birth father.

New blog post by DuEwa at Goodreads!

Writing Outside of Who You Are Upcoming 2017 Programs featuring DuEwa Frazier: February - Writes of Spring @ Maryville University March - School Visit @ Webster Groves High School April - Teen Book Club @ Kirkwood Library

Wishing You a Blessed NEW YEAR!

DuEwa World, P.O. Box 26183, Brooklyn, NY 11201 SafeUnsubscribe™ ibj1960@aol.com

pg. 32

KWANZAA

Mask and Masquerade Sunday, January 1, 2017, noon–4:00 pm. Free Join us for an afternoon of activities to celebrate an African American holiday tradition at the Saint Louis Art Museum. Presented in collaboration with the St. Louis Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Noon–4:00 pm Museum Galleries

• Zawadi (gift) hands-on activity for children • Self-guided tour and scavenger hunt

2:00–3:30 pm The Farrell Auditorium Free, but tickets are required. Tickets will be available at the Museum on January 1.

• Spoken Word, Dr. Elaine Woodson • Nan Foule Folklore Society, St. Louis Chapter & Special Guests • Drumming and dancing by Moja Moyo & Company • African-inspired refreshments following performance Visit slam.org/learn for more information.

Family Sundays are sponsored by Wells Fargo Advisors.

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

Is

Being Hijacked?

Is Black Lives Matter Being Hijacked?

Black Lives Matter, the group formed to bring public

attention to excessive police violence, has become embroiled in sharp polemics and attacks. Instead of an uplifting message, galvanizing a community into action, something is going sideways. More specifically, a justifiable message is being marred, distorted and even turning on its head. Hence, it’s becoming painfully obvious that hostile forces are pushing back to highjack the movement, vilifying it as anti-police and even racist.

Take Blue Lives Matter and All Lives Matter, many contend is a kneejerk and shrill reaction. The Black Lives Matter movement, in all fairness, addresses the senseless police murders of unarmed African Americans such as Michael Brown, Eric Garner, Sandra Bland, Freddie Gray and many more. Hence, organizers must now deal with outrage of self-styled groups that negatively influence and confuse the public about their motives.

To cut through the noise that could be neutralizing its effectiveness, a panel discussion, titled, Black Lives Matter, was held Wednesday, December 7, 2016 at the University of Missouri–St. Louis. Its purpose was to convey “the reasoning for the movement and the challenges it faces, especially in the aftermath of this election cycle.”

pg. 34

The panelists were: Dr. Chris Sullivan, an UMSL clinical psychologist, Timothy Lewis, UMSL doctoral candidate and Mustafa Abdullah, lead organizer for the ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union) of Missouri.

But it (BLM) doesn’t exclude other lives.

It means Black lives matter too, not other lives don’t matter.

While supporters may ignore (albeit a few) BLM demonstrators saying vile things to officers or hurling tear gas canisters back at them, opponents smear the entire group as extremist. “The movement faces serious obstacles,” Timothy Lewis said to an audience of 100 mostly students, faculty and staff. “But it doesn’t exclude other lives. It means Black lives matter too, not other lives don’t matter.” By the same token, he chided BLM for not having a clear message, lacking a visible leader and with no economic impact.

Sure enough, the first Q & A comment came from a White male, saying he’s a member of the Guardian Angels, leveling accusations at it for being anti-police and racist. A few members of the audience shouted him down and he quickly left.

The history of police killings of African Americans in the country has so shocked the conscience that it could be viewed as “ethnic cleansing.” Over the years, adversaries have reacted to protests with withering scorn (including lynching) as if it’s simply the cost of doing business or collateral damage. Until now, police brutality and

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IS BLACK LIVES MATTER... cont.

murders have been frightening and seemingly intractable. Yet on that fateful day of the Michael Brown murder in Ferguson with the raw and gruesome images of a teenager lying in the street for four hours with blood running into the gutter, the community rose up and social media went wild and viral.

“It was unexpected and we weren’t prepared,” said Mustafa Abdullah who has done extensive work to address police accountability, racial profiling and mass incarcerations. “On that day (August 9, 2014), I had hundreds of emails,” Abdullah said, adding that people were “realizing that systematically something is going on wrong.” As a result, he said the work of ACLU has substantially increased.

For example, the National Lawyer’s Guild started training legal observers to monitor in a neutral manner police behavior. The ACLU also challenged a “big case” -- as he described it -- regarding the “5 second rule” where police threatened protesters with arrests for standing more than five seconds on the sidewalk. This was ruled as unconstitutional, violating protesters’ First Amendment rights. The ACLU also challenged police indiscriminately throwing tear gas at protesters, now they must give a warning.

Yet this is not just happening in North St. Louis County. Abdullah said in Kirkwood (in West County) with a seven percent Black population, 24 percent of consent searches target African Americans.

pg. 36

Racial profiling and disproportionate stops of African Americans are rampant in the St. Louis area. Abdullah said that of all the people he talked to, “Not one single person had a positive experience with law enforcement.” He added that police “do not have probable cause for a search and Blacks are 1.6 times more likely to be stopped, searched and arrested.”

According to a recent St. Louis Post Dispatch article, ArchCity Defenders has filed four lawsuits since August alleging that municipalities have been operating a “debtor’s prison.” In the latest case, a 34 year-old woman was found to have arrest warrants in Dellwood, Hazelwood and Floirstell. She was transported to each jail, ending up at the St. Louis County Justice Center in Clayton. She then borrowed money from a relative to pay her bail. Instead of being released, Floristell officers transported her to St. Charles County jail where she was ordered to pay $1,758. For 11 days she was locked up before she had an opportunity to tell the judge she couldn’t afford to pay it. ArchCity asked the judge to reduce it to $700. Her mother then had to borrow the money from her life insurance policy for her freedom.

Abdullah said the ACLU is working on updating the state’s racial profiling law, particularly the part where officers are not required to document a consent search. In other words, police are not required

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pg. 38

ACTORS

in support of

The John E. & Regina S. Nance Memorial Scholarship Fund presents…

Dennis Lebby

“I’ve Been to the Mountaintop” Directed by Fannie Lebby

Peggy Calvin

Washington Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church 3200 Washington Avenue ~ St. Louis, Missouri 63103

Tickets: $10.00 "I've Been to the Mountaintop" was Dr. Martin Luther King's final speech delivered at the Mason Temple Church of God in Christ on the eve of his assassination April 3, 1968. This interactive performance transports the audience back to Mason Temple where 3,000 plus crowd came to hear Dr. King's address during the sanitation worker's strike taking place on the streets of Memphis, Tennessee! Music arranged by Marvin Cockrell.

The John E. and Regina S. Nance Memorial Scholarship Fund is a ministry of Washington Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church that helps support high school seniors as they enter college..

You may purchase tickets in advance from any Nance Scholarship Committee Member or you may pay at the door. For more information or if you just want to make a donation contact the church at (314) 533-8763.

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Gregory Carr

Jason Little

Thomasina Clarke Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

IS BLACK LIVES MATTER... cont.

to ask to search someone’s car, the search implies consent. Since many drivers don’t know their rights, they passively go along with these practices, not realizing they can object, in other words they can say they do not give consent.

Problems of this sort are not just happening in North St. Louis County. For example, Abdullah said in Kirkwood (in West County) with a seven percent Black population, 24 percent of consent searches target African Americans. While panelists said a number of law enforcement agencies are trying to do the right thing, such as improving hiring practices and creating community partnerships, there is a long way to go.

February 28, 2017 is Lobby Day in Jefferson City. Abdullah invited the audience to sign up to go to the capital to lobby to update the racial profiling law. “Know your rights,” he said, urging them to attend ACLU workshops.

Abdullah’s father is from Egypt. He and his father view Malcom X as a hero and credit the African American Muslim and human rights leader with raising their consciousness. He also spoke passionately about his concern for the attacks on Muslim Americans, particularly during the recent presidential election.

A recipient of the ACLU award as one of the “21 Kickass Muslims Changing America,” yet he agonized whether to accept an invitation

pg. 40

to talk to a church of White conservatives right after the election.

Most had voted for Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, saying he felt “deeply uncomfortable and his feelings were still too raw.”

“People have wholly different experiences that influence their perceptions. People will walk away from the conversation if they disagree,” he said. So with some apprehension he agreed to go. But his bravado was in full form as he was very direct in expressing his concerns and fears about Trump denouncing Muslims including the targeted prohibition of an entire ethnic group. To his astonishment, he said some of them told him: “He didn’t mean anything he said.”

Lewis, who is Black, specializes in politics of discriminated groups, particularly African-Americans and members of the LGBTI community or lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex. He raised serious concerns about the movement focusing only on heterosexual males. Rarely does it focus on Black victims of police murders such as Dwone Anderson Young, Seattle, Deon Brown, Nashville, or Dionte Green, Kansas City, Missouri. All were gay.

White people don’t really listen to other people’s pain. Your pain is not real.

Chris Sullivan, who is White, said that there is a role for White allies, yet he bristles at the term, because it implies that he has the choice of being involved and then pulling away. By the same token, he had

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IS BLACK LIVES MATTER... cont.

criticisms of too many Whites. “White people don’t really listen to other people’s pain. Your pain is not real.”

Abdullah said ”A lot of people think police can’t do anything wrong.”

Rendering historical analysis, he said there is an “Institution of policing” dating back to the slave patrols. Yet, erasure of this history can leave people unaware and unsympathetic to such movements as

Black Lives Matter.

He mentioned a speaking engagement to a predominantly White audience in Springfield, Missouri. Like many other White communities, it’s experiencing a raging drug epidemic. They were complaining about police mistreatment of those suspected of drug possession, including asset forfeiture, a Department of Justice program that seizes property of criminals and their associates to prevent further criminal activity. At the end of the program, an audience member cracked: “How are those thugs in Ferguson.”

Startled at first, then he replied: “I’m one of them, I’m one of those Ferguson demonstrators.”

The long and short of the panel discussion was that ethnic groups should have more dialogue, discussions and civil debates, keeping the passion but leaving out the negative emotions. An exemplar is comedian Trevor Noah of The Daily Show who panelists praised for inviting to his show Tomi Lahren, a young ultra conservative. “I’m in

pg. 42

the lion’s den” she could be heard muttering. “Yet he was a model almost to perfection of how to have a conversation,” said Abdullah.

A member of the audience, Dr. Jerome Morris, E. Desmond Lee Endowed Professor in Urban Education at UMSL, commented during Q & A about the growing conservatism among young Whites and the miseducation and lack of racial consciousness among too many young Blacks. He was also responding to other comments and questions during the Q & A session about these concerns. The general consensus was that schools (mostly segregated) are not doing a good job in giving an accurate history or depiction of race relations in this country.

“The educational system, no, the schooling system,” correcting himself, “de-culturalizes, depoliticizes and de-racializes. Their purpose is to indoctrinate,” Morris said.

(For more information, go online to Black Lives Matter Policy

Agenda: https://policy.m4bl.org/.)

Malaika Horne, PhD, is a journalist and academic writer

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pg. 44

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

Featured

Artist

Submission

pg. 46

Marylin

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Robinson

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Artist Statement: “Capturing the infinite beauty of ‘Nature’ and ‘Cultural Compositions™’, is the essence of my painting and fine art photography. My art is the ultimate visual avenue for exploring, sharing, and celebrating my own spirituality and deep appreciation and love of nature’s complex beauty and the artistry of African Ancestry cultures. My particular passions are: macro florals and capturing images of little known, unique, Caribbean & New Orleans culture compositions.”

Marilyn L. Robinson

As a self-taught artist, with sociological interests, Robinson attempts to manifest complex and unique artistic aspects of “Cultural Compositions™” into her acrylic paintings and fine art photography. She prefers printing her fine art photographic images, on artist canvas, and often enhances them with metallic paint, textured gels, beads, wire, and fabric, to create particularly unique compositions.

Robinson’s formal education and professional experiences are in the field of sociology. She earned a BA in Social Welfare; MSW in Clinical Social Work; and EdD in Human Services (HS) Administration. After a highly successful HS career, she retired in 2010, and is now able to devote full time to her lifetime passion of producing exotic and unique fine art, multi-media, artworks.

Inspired by her own culture, her travel experiences, sociology/anthropology college studies, art classes, and human services career, Robinson’s fine art photography and paintings illustrate her fascination with the incredible complexity, artistry, and “spiritual beauty” of today’s cultures, that have grown out of African Ancestry. She enjoys sharing and celebrating that “beauty”, through her art. She has published six photo art books, documenting the artistry of her “nature” and “culture compositions” fine art photography. Her DVD & photo art books are available at www.Amazon.com.

Dr. Robinson received a highly competitive, “Artist Support Grant”, from the St. Louis Regional Arts Commission to produce a DVD, featuring her photographs, documenting the history and artistry of the “Black Indians of New Orleans”. She was selected to show the DVD, at the University of Missouri-St. Louis’, Women in the Arts 2014 Conference. The video was also shown at the St. Louis Art Museum in 2015. Her abstract painting “Urban Blizzard”, was one of three artworks, selected to be featured on the promotional poster for the “Hands Up, Don’t Shoot”, St. Louis, City/County-wide, 14 gallery, art exhibit, featuring the works of over 100 national artists.

A slide show presentation, featuring her photographs, documenting 6 months, Post-Katrina New Orleans, was selected to be featured at the “Ten Year Katrina Anniversary” exhibit at the Vaughn Cultural Center.

Robinson has been jury selected to exhibit her Fine Art Photography and Original Paintings at: The St. Louis Artists Guild, Phillip Slein Gallery, Art St. Louis Gallery, Edwardsville Art Center (IL), Salon 53, Portfolio Art Gallery, 10th Street Gallery, Vaughn Cultural Center, Webster Groves’ Old Orchard Gallery, 14th Street Gallery, St. Louis Development Corp., St. Louis Regional Arts Commission, Art in Transit/Metro, BlackArtInAmerica.com, Chesterfield (MO) Arts, Framations Art Gallery in Old St. Charles, MO, and Jacoby Art Gallery in Alton, Illinois.

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

SEVEN IN

SEVENTEEN!!

It has been said that a dollar stays in the Black community for less than a day. How’s that possible you might ask?? Here’s one potential scenario. The very second a payroll direct deposit hits, or the moment we get our paycheck in our hot little hands, that money is rushed to cover already committed purchases of products and services that Blacks had no role in providing or manufacturing. In this scenario, we’re supporting and strengthening everyone else’s economy, to the tune of over a trillion dollars a year, at the expense of building our own.

If I purchase a product from a Black retail outlet, and the owner of that outlet hires a Black plumber/electrician/painter contractor, and that contractor hires a Black attorney, and that attorney hires a Black caterer, who then proceeds to hire a Black janitorial firm to clean up after each event, one dollar has passed through the hands of a Black business AT LEAST FIVE TIMES!!!

Controlling and directing our spending toward African-American businesses that understand “how” to conduct business is the quickest and easiest way to stimulate the Black economy and strengthen the African-American community. But let’s not stop at five. In 2017, let’s make SEVEN our goal: one dollar changing hands from one African-American to another AfricanAmerican at least SEVEN times!

On the first two Sundays in December, you will have two opportunities to practice what I’m preaching.

“OH BUY THE WAY” is sponsoring tours of African-American owned and operated retail outlets:

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 4

GET IN THE LOOP!

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11 LET’S GO DOWN…..TOWN! LADIES, if you need to impress or search for that awesome dress, then “GET ON THE BUS!!” Explore St. Louis’ many boutiques with styles and fashions that will make heads turn!

GENTLEMEN, who do you need to buy presents for? A daughter, mother, sister, lover, side-chick or significant other?? Then “GET ON THE BUS!!” We’ll help you find something to satisfy them all!!

For more information, and to purchase tickets, check out the attached flyer!

ADVANCE PURCHASE TICKETS ONLY!!

See you on the “BUS” in December!!!

Oh Buy the Way

“Neighborhood Business Tours” www.ohbuytheway.us

844-STL-TOUR

844-785-8687

pg. 64

Gifts for you, me and everybody!!

"GET IN THE LOOP!" FEATURED BOUTIQUES: Such A Lady, Bentil's Jahz Art, Simpson & Company Tailoring, Miss M's Candy, Calla Lily, Cocktailz.....A Beauty Bar, Femme Fatale

What a cute t-shirt!!!

Bus Departure Time: 1:30pm Departure Location: Legacy Books & Cafe, 5249 Delmar 63108 (At Union - In Delmar Plaza) Arrive early at Legacy so you can eat, drink and get merry before the tour!!!

Sunday, 12/04/16, "GET IN THE LOOP!" Tickets: "Click Here" "LET'S GO DOWN....TOWN!" FEATURED BOUTIQUES: 10th Street Gallery, The Dollhouse Studios, Le Divine Collection, Domi More, Progressive Emporium, A Taste of Luxurie, Miss M's Candy Wish I had more money to spend! I'm definitely coming back here again!!!

Departure Time: 1:30pm Departure Location: The Rustic Goat, 2617 Washington 63103 (park in lot across the street) Arrive early to The Rustic Goat so you can eat, drink and get merry before the tour!!!

Sunday,12/11/16, "GO DOWNTOWN!" Tickets:"Click Here!"

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

PRIVATE

SHOOTING LESSONS FROM A CERTIFIED INSTRUCTOR.

One Hour Lesson includes ammunition and use of a firearm.

Call for an appointment.

Ernest Jones 314.791.6820

Concealed weapon classes available also. pg. 66

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

Is Ben Carson a of Clarence Thomas

C LO N E

?

By: Bernie Hayes

pg. 68

President-elect Donald Trump has chosen Dr. Ben Carson as his nominee to lead the Department of Housing and Urban Development in his incoming administration. Yet most people agree that the neurosurgeon who backed Trump after he gave up on his own bid to become president, is utterly unqualified to head the agency. Carson argues because he grew up in the inner-city of Detroit makes him qualified for the HUD appointment.

In almost every gathering I attend, I am hear comparisons of Dr. Ben Carson, and U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, and the similarities are not complimentary, typically among African Americans. How do they match?

Let us compare some of their ideals and principles.

Thomas said “Perhaps some are confused because they have stereotypes of how blacks should be and I respectfully decline, as I did in my youth, to sacrifice who I am for who they think I should be.” You must remember that Thomas is a conservative justice and has come down against Roe v. Wade and school desegregation.

In addition Thomas dissented in the Supreme Court’s landmark decisions in June 2015 to uphold the federal tax subsidies of the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, and the constitutional rights of gay couples to get married. This is only a sample of the rulings of Justice Thomas.

Let us now compare him to Dr. Ben Carson. After graduating from Yale in 1973, Carson enrolled in the School of Medicine at the University of Michigan, choosing to become a neurosurgeon rather than a psychologist.

Recent controversial statements have surfaced contradicting his choice of a career when he said “I was offered a full scholarship to West Point. I didn’t refuse the scholarship outright, but I let them know that a military career wasn’t where I saw myself going”. Some media outlets indicates that he had misrepresented the facts surrounding the West Point offer.

is making all of us subservient to the government, and it was never about health care. It was about control.”

In 1998 in which he discussed his belief that the pyramids in Egypt were built as granaries, not as tombs for pharaohs.

“My own personal theory is that Joseph built the pyramids to store grain. Now all the archaeologists think that they were made for the pharaohs’ graves. But, you know, it would have to be something awfully big if you stop and think about it. And I don’t think it’d just disappear over the course of time to store that much grain”. And to the opportunity of a Muslim becoming the President of the United States, Carson stated “I would not advocate that we put a Muslim in charge of this nation. I absolutely would not agree with that.”

While both Carson and Thomas identify themselves as African-American, their beliefs, mannerisms and basic behavioral patterns may vary slightly from people who are depicted as black. I hope that Carson nor Thomas will not hold themselves separately from some form of ethnic influence, nor from the development of social, political, economic, and educational interactions of our time.

Carson’s performance, attitude, and language, indicates his desire to be a party follower and supporter, and he demonstrates his desire to go along with the standards of the Republican Party, so he will be accepted as an elite individual.

My personal opinion is that Carson and Thomas will try to conform to whatever group they are in at the time. They appear to obey and adopt to impress or gain favor or acceptance from the Tea Party and other people.

Likewise they seem to be motivated by the need for social rewards rather than the threat of rejection, and so it appears that their cultural identity is the foundation or groundwork on which every other aspect of their being is built.

It is the cornerstone of what makes them who they are and they seem to share a sense of companionship that involves the same beliefs, interests and basic principles of existing that are not in the interest of the African American community or the nation.

With issues such as terrorism, politics and religious differences overwhelming the media these days, the need for cultural awareness should become more important for Carson’s and Thomas’ sense of self and how they relate to others.

Carson and Thomas share the same view of the Affordable Care Act when Carson said in October 2013, “Obamacare is really I think the worst thing that has happened in this nation since slavery. And it is slavery in a way, because it Copyright © 2016 - All rights reserved.

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Would you like a printed copy(s) of an issue mailed to your home?

Send your request to us by email **Remember to include the volume/issue** Cost may vary per issue.

pg. 70

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

SEE OH SAY CAN YOU

By Pierre Blaine

Oh say, can you see, by the dawn’s early light, what so proudly we hail at the twilight’s last gleaming, whose broad stripes and bright stars through the perilous fight, o’er the ramparts we watched, were so gallantly streaming?

And the rockets’ red glare, the bombs bursting in air, gave proof through the night that our flag was still there. O say, does that star-spangled banner yet wave, o’er the land of the free and the home of the brave?

H

ow as a nation can we be in such disagreement as to whether or not we are headed backwards and others see this past election as moving the country forward? The rhetoric of Anti- Immigrant, Anti- Mexican, AntiMuslim, Anti-Refugee, Anti-Black, seems to be going back to a checkered history of this country to the Alien and Sedition Acts of 1798, the KnowNothings of the mid 1800’s and the Anti- Asian sentiments of the 19th and early 20th century. And we as a people have no collective memory of what we are looking at in the 21st century.

The recession that President Barack Obama inherited coming into office in 2008 increased the isolationism, callousness, and greed of corporations and the 1% at the cost of low wages for working people in this country. And yet they were so angry pg. 72

that they gave the keys of the governance back to the very people that put them in the precarious predicament in the first place. The republicans knew that and simply did not govern to improve those lives by simply saying no to every proposal that would have increased the lot of the working people but that was not important until they were back in power. Now that they are back in power, is putting the 1% in cabinet positions really going to change the lot of working people when they really did not do anything wrong?

The new administration inherits an economy that is not in free fall but is growing even though it is slow growth because the Congress did not do its job to contribute to growth over the past eight years. We now have people in office who want to make America great again by making it an all-white ethno country. What does that mean for a country whose best ideals embraces – give

me your tired your poor your huddled masses that yearn to be free…

In my book: Movement: Race, Power and Culture in America, I argue that we cannot allow the racial politics of racial resentment to propel the nation into a Pre-Civil War neurosis. America must remake itself in the 21st century by understanding its collective unconsciousness and expose the complexes of this nation by telling the truth.

First, all individuals who are currently not covered by health insurance should enroll in the Affordable Healthcare available and dare the republicans to dismantle it.

Second, write your democratic senator and tell them to block all nominations to the Supreme Court to the United States for 4 years and let the people decide who will be the next justice after the next election for president.

Third, organize advocates for public education schools in the country and support students in higher education by increasing funding for Pell Grants.

Fourth, tell the new Attorney General to support the Justice Department’s agreements all over the country to improve policing in communities which currently have entered those agreements to implement community policing.

Fifth, support the Paris Agreement and demand that the United States lead the world in supporting activities to improve Climate Change in the world.

Pierre Blaine is author of Movement: Race, Power, and Culture in America available on Amazon.com

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

Media Contact: Mary Schanuel mschanuel@synergy-pr.com 314.961.9772 December 1, 2016 Gitana presents “Faces of Love Concert and Dinner” Valentine’s celebration concert and dinner with international flavor

ST. LOUIS, MO – Gitana Productions will present “Faces of Love Concert and Dinner,” an international-flavor Valentine’s celebration concert and dinner on Saturday, February 18, at the Ethical Society of St. Louis, 9001 Clayton Rd. The dinner will feature authentic dishes from three leading St. Louis ethnic restaurants along with candlelight, champagne and chocolates beginning at 6:30 p.m. The concert with original music by Aska Kaneko and Dawn Weber follows at 7:30 p.m. Tickets for the dinner and concert are $50; tickets for the concert only are $25. Call (314) 721-6556.

Aska Kaneko, an internationally known violinist from Japan, and well-known St. Louis trumpeter and entertainer Dawn Weber will collaborate to create a unique, cross-cultural performance. Both classically trained artists have ventured into jazz and contemporary styles of music, are talented vocalists and have received critical acclaim for their versatility and quality performances.

“This musical collaboration clearly demonstrates that innovation and cross-cultural engagement is not just cultural but also spans creative styles, musical backgrounds and disciplines,” said Cecilia Nadal, executive director of Gitana Productions. “We are

pg. 76

excited to see where these two talented artists will go creatively with their shared compositions and improvisation.”

Aska Kaneko Is is a virtuoso violinist, a composer, musical director, producer and vocalist.She directs Aska Strings and is a member of Gaia Cuatro, a JapaneseArgentinian group that tours Europe and Japan. She is a renowned musical director of major music theatre products in Japan and has composed music for theatre and television. Aska has collaborated with a wide range of professional artists, including a duo project with harpist Amy Camie of St. Louis whom she met at a Gitana Productions Faces of Love Concert called “Celebration of the Divine Feminine.”

Dawn Weber is a world-class entertainer, trumpeter, composer and stylish vocalist. She has performed with popular St. Louis bands Vargas Swing, Urban Jazz Naturals, and Mo and Dawn (The Remix Project) and currently leads her own bands including the Electro Funk Assembly, The Dawn Weber Trio, Naked Rock Fight and others. She has performed with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and with Latin, contemporary, and avant-garde bands, with styles ranging from electronic to blues, swing, brass and jazz.

Special guest musicians and dancers also will perform, and the concert will be recorded live for Gitana’s upcoming theater project, BETWEEN WORLDS IN ST. LOUIS: AN AMERICAN JOURNEY, coming in May /June 2017.

Links to video performances by Aska Kaneko and Dawn Weber are available at www.gitana-inc.org.

The Valentine’s event is the 19th Faces of Love event of international and local artists presented by Gitana Productions since 1997. Other concerts have featured multicultural presentations such as the China National Orchestra working with the local African American Cameron Youth Orchestra; local Jewish rock artist Rick Recht teamed with Copyright © 2016 - All rights reserved.

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

GITANA PRESENTS... cont.

Muslim artist Hassan Hakmoun; and Karamu: A Fiesta of Latin and African American Music with Denise Thimes, the Bosman Twins, Bokulaka, a Congolese dancer and drummer and Latin Fire lead by Herman Semidey.

The Regional Arts Commission, Missouri Arts Council and Arts and Education Council have provided partial funding to support many of Gitana Productions events.

ABOUT GITANA PRODUCTIONS Gitana Productions, Inc. is a not-for-profit arts and education organization dedicated to creating a diverse and dynamic community through cross-cultural awareness using drama, music and dance. Gitana events present a rarely seen diversity of international and local artists exhibiting an array of traditional and innovative artistic expressions. For more information, visit www.gitana-inc.org or call Gitana Productions at (314) 721-6556.

Media Contact Mary Schanuel mschanuel@synergy-pr.com 314.961.9772

# # #

pg. 78

CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS AT THIRD FRIDAY!

We're right smack dab in the middle of the holiday season -- gift buying, party planning, winter break activities for the kids -- the list goes on and on. And you deserve a break!

Come to Third Friday! It's our FREE monthly open house the whole family can enjoy. Put aside your holiday stresses for a fun night of hot glass, cool entertainment, and plenty of unexpected gifts from our gallery! Here's what we've got going on this Friday, December 16: Hot glass roasting in an open furnace: watch our artists craft gorgeous works of art during our glassblowing demonstrations! Demos start at 6:15, 7:30, and 8:45.

Read More

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

Black Archaeologist in

Nubian Gladiatress A new episode of Black Archaeologist (Nubian Gladiatress) is up on our fan page called, I LOVE BLACK ARCHAEOLOGIST, other episodes, and seasons are available on our website BlackArchaeologist.com https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wQoEUaA0I

pg. 80

PLAY CHANNEL PHOTOGRAPHY Let us show your smile to the world

Connect with me on Social Media

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

Book Town, USA’s Year-Round Santa

By Vickie Newton

I

n the back of the mall in Pine Bluff where a department store once welcomed crowds of shoppers eager for the latest fashions, there is now a new attraction with an educational focus. They call it Book Town, USA, and it’s the only place in the mall where you don’t need money.

initiative.

“Everything in here is free,” says Dr. Robert Anderson who started Book Town more than two decades ago. “There’s not a bookstore in Jefferson County or surrounding areas. The first Saturday of every month, we have a storyteller, sometimes a puppet show, and we give each child a book.”

Anderson is a spry senior whose light-brown eyes twinkle with a quick wit and a devotion to children. He remembers his childhood and cites his determination not to work on the family farm as motivation to get an education.

He attended college at the tender age of 14, and by the time he was 16, he had earned a place on the faculty at Tennessee State. Not long after, he graduated from Vanderbilt University with his Ph.D. His love for children brought him back to the Delta and led

Kiana Ward, who also has a two-year-old son, echoes Williams’ appreciation. “It’s helped Bryce a lot. He’s more sociable, talks more, and can identify his colors. Whereas before the program, he was quiet and kept to himself,” Ward explains.

Bailey-Jefferson talks enthusiastically about the program’s

“There will be conflict and chaos in life, but it’s how you respond that matters.” She potential to “change the trajectory” of a child’s life.

and Anderson are concerned about the “dislodged” family unit and its impact on children.

Teachers like Sarah Perry support the program’s mission of helping the youngest children. Perry describes how her students have “responded to the routine of the program” and points out that within a matter of months her students have demonstrated progress in their learning and social skills.

There are grandparents, parents, and friends milling around Book Town for the gathering. Christmas music fills the air as does the possibility of a brighter future for the children standing near the trees and decorations. It is a departure from the past for many, and the man responsible moves around the room like an elf clad in a blinking Christmas sweater. Perhaps, the best gift Robert Anderson will give is free, and it isn’t under the tree.

“People stopped reading and stores couldn’t afford it so they went out of business,” Anderson recalls. “We know we have made a difference because we have children who to Book Town.

have come and learned to read and children who come to read and don’t want to leave.”

Book Town is a home for all things family. During the holidays, it hosts a celebration for the children, families and staff from 15 daycares in the area. Anderson is a professor at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff where he is also involved with Head Start. He and Dr. Marilyn BaileyJefferson collaborated to bring a program to the Delta to specifically address the educational and social needs of the youngest children, ages newborn to 36 months.

Tiffany Williams attended the Christmas program. She says her two-year-old son, Ja’carion, “knows his numbers and his ABC’s” as a result of the new early childhood

pg. 82

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pg. 84

CAM City Wide “Open Studios

10.09.16

10th Annual Open Studios STL This year marks the tenth anniversary of Open Studios STL, featuring over 200 St. Louisbased artists and art spaces; sponsored by the Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis.

The Jewelry, Poetry, Art, Carvings, project sketches and ideas of artisan David A. N. Jackson will be on display in The 2nd Floor Boutique 5555-5557 Etzel Avenue 63112 and in workshop display areas of the location. “This marks my first year of participating in OPEN STUDIOS (2016) so I hope to make it exciting, thought-full, thought provoking, & on point.

Portions, illustrations, and considerations of continued dialog are being created in reflection, response, and interreaction to what the world

and current climate environs asks, expects, and demands of Black/ African-n-America artists and persons of color. There are and will be some extra arts & music expression for you to InJoy by members, musicians and friends of PEPAA –(the Progressive Experimental Positive Arts Association).

Stop on by. Shop and buy. Sit, Look, Listen, and Chill Out.

https://www.facebook.com/events/1306956772671767/ Copyright © 2016 - All rights reserved.

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

FEATURED

Coco SOUL Upcoming Events

CHRISTMAS EVE

COCO SOUL

S H O W

L I V E !

at the

12/

at

1/

24

MO ALL-STARS

7

disco nights

at the

10

Velvet Lounge

Coco Soul presents...

S H O W 1/

Judy's

at the

1/ pg. 86

28

coco soul

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

“Acting White”

Share your Story Dear friends: I have been asked to write a chapter in a book that will address colorism in education. My chapter will focus on “acting white.”

Specifically, when I was growing up, I was a “smart” student. My top performance in school, doing homework, raising my hand to answer questions, etc. often drew the accusation from my African American classmates and friends that I was “acting white.”

Now, I know there are psychologists out there who say this is not true and does not exist. But alas, it was absolutely true for me. I have written about this in past works. I will do so again for this new book. I do know that many young folks today who continue to have such allegations hurled at them so feel free to share this email with whoever and have folks email me directly.

I did a survey on this very question about 7 years ago and the results were consistent with my experiences decades ago. I’d like to update my earlier survey. I would love to hear from anyone out there who has a similar/related story either involving yourself or someone you know. I would like to include your story in the chapter. I will conceal your identity if you request.

Do you have a story to share? If so, please email to me at: norwood@wulaw.wustl.edu.

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”

Margaret Mead Kimberly Norwood , Professor of Law | Washington University School of Law pg. 88

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

THE LAMBERT BROTHERS presents:

Black Way

In Time Series

Black Archaeologist, the Black History Cartoon.

WAY BLACK IN TIME SERIES, part # 9, Scottish Black Moores.

Purchase any or all three seasons on dvd at our website...

BlackArchaeologist.com

pg. 90

Facebook

watch now Copyright © 2016 - All rights reserved.

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

Featured

Photography

Submission

pg. 94

Mel

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Wright

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

For African American Youth & Young Adults Ages 13 – 24 Living in St. Louis City and County

FREE 6-WEEK EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOP SERIES

   

Get Educated About Substance Use, HIV/AIDS, & Hepatitis Design Community Prevention Social Marketing Campaigns Create Bonds as a Big Brother/Sister or Little Brother/Sister Receive Free Health Counseling, Substance Use Screenings, and HIV, STD, & Hepatitis Testing

LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD! SPEAK PREVENTION THROUGH SOCIAL MEDIA! FEMALE ONLY SESSION! FEMALES

DATES

Workshop Dates

Oct. 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, 27 Nov. 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17 **REGISTER BY OCT. 4TH**

Orientation

October 8, 2016

MALE ONLY SESSION! MALES

DATES

Workshop Dates

Jan. 18, 19, 25, 26 Feb. 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23 **REGISTER BY DEC. 31ST **

Orientation

January 14, 2017

TIMES

LOCATION

TIMES

LOCATION

11:30am – 2:30pm 5:30pm – 8:30pm (each day)

11:30am – 2:30pm 5:30pm – 8:30pm (each day)

UMSL ITE Building 4633 World Parkway Circle, St. Louis, MO 63134

UMSL ITE Building 4633 World Parkway Circle, St. Louis, MO 63134

For Additional Program Information call 314-516-8491

REGISTER ONLINE

Sponsors & Partners

www.ProjectY-ChatNow.org

pg. 104

Holiday Fun in Old North The holidays are here and UrbArts will provide hours of activities for children this Saturday from noon to 4:00 pm. For the schedule of activities please visit UrbArts.org or see the image below.

Beginning January, we'll host a monthly children's series call Run the Gallery where children can participate in arts & crafts, sing-alongs, and dance activities.

It's the end of the year, and you may be thinking about offering donations to worthy nonprofits. Please consider making a tax-deductible donation to UrbArts and support programs like Run the Gallery and VerbQuake Youth Poetry Slam Donate today.

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

Aliyah ~LotusMoon~ NOW on SoundCloud

Listen!

nagchamp009 pg. 106

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

FREE CONCERT

TOURS

SERIES

EVENTS

LIVE MUSIC AUGUST 2016 pg. 108

S.L .A .M.

St. Louis Art Museum

ART COLLECTIONS

EXHIBITS

EVENTS

Admission to the Museum is free every day.

Hours:

Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 am–5:00 pm

|

Friday, 10:00 am–9:00 pm

|

Closed Monday

w w w. s l a m . o r g

One Fine Arts Drive - Forest Park, Copyright © 2016 - All rights reserved.

St. Louis, MO 63110-1380 314.721.0072

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

pg. 110

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

“Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’

Matthew 25:34-40 NIV

We seek to impact the world with the love of Christ one life at a time!

Hopelessness and desperation are on the rise in a world where the greatest segment of the population possesses the least amount of resources.

We need your help! Please help us fight this epidemic by sending your tax deductible donations/contributions to: For His Glory Ministries of St. Louis P.O. Box 1942 Maryland Heights, MO. 63043 http://calvarychapelslc.com/homeless-ministry/ For other ways in which you can help please contact Pamela Ford at pamelaford98@gmail.com or 314-216-0744. pg. 112

t e e w T t e e w T t e Twe t e e w T t e e w T t e e Tw t e e w T t e e w T t e e Tw t e e w T t e e w T t e e Tw t e e w T t e e w T t e e Tw Follow us Tweet t e e w T t Twee t e e w T t e e w T t e e Tw t e e w T t e e w T t e e Tw @ArtsTodayez

#artstodayEZ

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

Portfolio Fundraiser Moves to Artist's Studio Janet Riehl's "Women & Wardrobe: The Riehl Collection" exhibit has finished it's successful run at The Portfolio Gallery and Education Center. It brought in $2,000 to help with much-needed building repairs. Many people went home with framed ($150) and unframed ($50) prints they love, and a good time was had by all.

Folks have said they would have loved to have seen the show, and were sorry they missed it. Janet has decided to host At Home evenings on Wednesdays from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. so you can! Come visit, enjoy the work, and of course buy whatever calls to you.

Any profit realized will continue to benefit Portfolio Gallery.

If you'd like to come, please contact her at janet.riehl@gmail.com.

Janet and Robert Powell, director of Portfolio Gallery and Education Center appeared on Fox 2 news. http://fox2now.com/2014/07/29/women-wardrobe-and-art-on-a-cell-phone-atportfolio/# Janet and her art was featured in the Alton Telegraph. http://www.thetelegraph.com/news/home_top-lifestyle-news/50095336/Artists-workmakes-Riehl-results#.U-Tbf1Ao7qC

Come on out! Meet some new people and enjoy some playful, colorful, and sensuous art inspired by African Women.

pg. 114

OLIVE BAR ROOFTOP O P E N TO N I G H T Click to RSVP COMPLIMENTARY ENTRY 10PM-11:30PM(ladies) and 11:00 (Men)

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pg. 116

John Jennings Associate Professor Visual Studies SUNY Buffalo tumblr: http://jijennin70. tumblr.com/

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

pg. 118

ART OF FOOD

Mock My

Tail

It's that time of the year again!!!

Family + friends are gathering for quality time & traditional quality time. Now I love a good cocktail, but there was a 4 month span this year where i wasn't able to drink. So this month's article is for those who love cocktails but may not be able to consume alcohol due to medications, pregnancy, etc. There are some twists to some classics & some new drinks to try. While I would like to take credit for these recipes, most of them I found online & a few are favorites amongst my friends. There are non-alcoholic wines & champagnes that can easily be substituted in your favorite drink of even the ones I'm sharing today. Always tweak it and make it work for you! ~Léna O. A. Jackson Culinary Arts To contact me, get more recipes, find out about events I’m apart of, or to even order some of my food: www.facebook.com/gspDore www.instagram.com/gspDore gspDoreinfo@gmail.com

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

Cran-Raspberry

Martini 1 Tbsp Raspberries, crushed 2 Tbsp Fresh Lime Juice ½ C Raspberry Flavor Sparkling Water

Moscow

Mule

½ C Club Soda ¼ C Ginger Ale 3 Tbsp Fresh Lime Juice Garnish: Lime Wedge & Mint Sprig

pg. 120

Jingle Juice

Mock-Tail 1 jug/59 fl. oz Tropicana Watermelon Juice 1 jug/59 fl. oz Tropicana Tangerine Lemonade 1 jug/59 fl. oz Tropicana Orange Juice 2 Liters Club Soda 1 bag Pebble Ice Garnishes: 3 Cinnamon Sticks 1 bag Cranberries, fresh 1 Red Grapefruit, sliced 1 Navel Orange, sliced 1 Lemon, sliced 1 Lime, sliced

Santa's

Helper 1 btl Champagne 1 btl Cranberry Juice 1 C Granulated Sugar 1 C Frozen Lemonade, thawed 1 C Frozen Orange Juice, thawed Water

Garnishes: Lemon Slices, Cranberries & Rosemary Sprigs

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

Sherbert

Mimosa ~2 scoops Sherbert 1 Tbsp Clementine Vodka as needed Champagne

Fill the champagne glass ¾ full with sherbert.

Next add 1 Tbsp of Clementine Vodka or any flavored vodka that will compliment the sherbert flavor(s).

Then add champagne to top the glass off.

Jungle Juice

Punch

1 btl/750mL Whipped Vodka 1 btl Pink Champagne/Sparkling Rosé 2 Liters Cherry 7-Up Garnish: Cranberries

pg. 122

The

Grinch 3 oz Peach Schapps 3 oz Bacardi 151 Rum 12 oz Orange Juice 4 oz Sprite 3 oz Blue Curacoa Liquer

Doré

Bon Appétit,

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

pg. 124

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

R A T S L AL M O TO R S , I N C .

2012 Ford Focus SE 24,xxx

2006 Dodge Dakota SLT 70,xxx

4 dr Sedan

4 dr

for more info visit us online

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KEVIN TAYLOR (314) 427-6550 office (314) 540-8618 cell (314) 423-9133 fax sales@allstarmotorsinc.com kevin.taylor.sales@gmail.com

2014 Chevrolet Impala 25,xxx miles 4 dr

for more info visit us online

OVER 100 VEHICLES

FOR SALE

WE SELL VEHICLES FOR CASH. PRICES ARE NEGOTIABLE. 9201 ST. CHARLES ROCK RD. \ ST. LOUIS, MO. 63114

MAKE ME AN OFFER. www.Allstarmotorsinc.com pg. 126

Rickkita Edwards teaches Core:Cardio & More @ North Co.Rec Center

every Mon-Wed- Fri.

5:30 PM-6:30 PM

She also teaches "WaistNWeights" every Mon

@ Faith Miracle Temple

7:15 PM-8 PM

Contact me today for personal training sessions!

314-566-9125 I.G WaistNotFitness | FB WaistNotFitness | Email:WaistnotFitness1@yahoo.com Copyright © 2016 - All rights reserved.

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

Book of Poetry by Lenard D. Moore

th on 30 iti d Ed ite ry Lim ersa niv

An

http://www.mountainsandriverspress.org/Home.aspx pg. 128

From all of us at Bruno David Gallery & Bruno David Projects. We wish you a very happy holiday season and a joyful new year. We thank you for your support in 2016, and we look forward to continue bringing exciting contemporary art to our supporters and visitors in 2017 Ashley Lee Bruno L. David Charis Schneider Cleo Kelly Liu Xizi Paula Stevenson Copyright © 2016 - All rights reserved.

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

ART OF HEALING

Your Ad or Article could be here!

Contact us if you have a contribution to the ART OF HEALING.

pg. 130

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

Ajuma Muhammad Author of 101 Proven and Effective Strategies for Empowering Black Boys

WATCH NOW!

1 0 Strategies

f o r E m p o w e r i n g B l a c k B oy s 1. Black boys should maintain a healthy relationship with God. 2. Black boys should honor and always respect their parents.

3. Black boys should embody greatness in everything they do.

4. Black boys should take pride in their history and culture.

5. Black boys should empower their community through leadership and service.

6. Black boys should be role models in their communities.

7. Black boys should honor, respect and protect the black woman.

8. Black boys should work to establish an economic foundation in their communities.

9. Black boys should travel internationally to better understand their place in the world.

10. Black boys should love themselves!

www.ajuma.org

pg. 132

Copyright © 2014 by Ajuma Muhammad

RICKKITA EDWARDS

CARDIO-CORE & MORE AT NORTH COUNTY REC. CENTER

TIMES: MON WEDS FRI 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM

She teaches a class 2 Mondays a month at Faith Miracle Temple 7:15 pm - 8:00 pm.

(ALL CLASSES ARE FREE)

COMING SOON! WAIST-NOT FITNESS PERSONAL TRAINING #GETWAISTEDBYRICKKITA

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

pg. 134

Walking the Blue Line: A Police Officer Turned Community Activist Provides Solutions for the Racial Divide

By Terrell Carter Bettie Youngs Book Publishers

$15.00 paperback

“As I recall my experiences, I find it incredulous that people in law enforcement honestly believe and say that a racial divide and racial profiling don’t exist. An officer’s mind is divided: first, between the police and the general public and second, between the police and minorities.”~ Terrell Carter Walking the Blue Line follows the author’s experiences growing up as a black child in St. Louis, MO, a racially charged city still trying to overcome its divided past, and his five year journey as a law enforcement officer which led him to reevaluate his views on citizens and police alike. Readers are taken on a compelling journey as he details personal stories of the challenges of navigating this new world, including how he had to testify against a former partner for falsifying a major drug arrest.

Terrell details the thoughts and tactics of police officers based on their training in the police academy and lessons they learn on the streets and how this information can help citizens better understand why officers do what they do while still holding them accountable for protecting and serving their communities.

Walking the Blue Line can be ordered from www.terrellcarter.net, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and traditional booksellers.

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

pg. 136

VIDEO: bell hooks + Kevin Powell conversation on manhood, trauma, hiphop, violence against women, healing, more:

Click below to watch now!

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

PREMIUM BLACK CAR SERVICE

RIDE IN STYLE WITH OUR EXPERIENCED, WELL TRAINED AND PROFESSIONAL DRIVERS.

BLACK CAR SERVICE

THE ULTIMATE IN LUXURY AND STYLE

Services Include:

AIRPORT TRANSFERS CORPORATE TRANSPORTATION NON-AIRPORT TRANSFERS PARTIES SPECIAL EVENTS/WEDDINGS/GRADUATIONS FLAT RATES AND HOURLY RATES AVAILABLE

SEDANS & SUV’S AVAILABLE CALL 314.565.8907 FOR YOUR FREE QUOTE. pg. 138

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

OPPORTUNITIES

pg. 140

CLICK HERE TO VIEW AD

The Bernie Hayes Show Talk and interviews about affairs of the day with a St. Louis slant.

The Bernie Hayes Show can be seen: Friday’s at 9 A.M. Saturday’s at 10:00 P.M. Sunday’s at 5:30 P.M.

PUT SOMETHING CLEAN ON YOUR TV! Copyright © 2016 - All rights reserved.

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pg. 142

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pg. 144

Closing in on my goal for “Fire this Time” - if everyone would do two things 1) support the making of this film with just a $20.00 donation and 2) encourage 2 of your friends to do the same - it will allow me to license some additional footage and photos - you can donate now by going here: http://www.cmt-tv.org/#!join-the-team/c1195 CMT-TV.org is a 501c3 non-profit organizations thus your donations are tax deductible - thank you - the making of this film will help me attract more resources which will allow real community filmmaking in STL -Phillip W. Johnson Producer of the #Ferguson Film Fire this Time

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Volume 3.10 December 20, 2016

CAREERS pg. 146

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pg. 148

A big Thank You to our CONTRIBUTERS

&

SPONSORS

For information on sponsoring or Advertising in ARTS-TODAY email us at ATadvertise@aol.com . To contribute articles email us at ArtsTodayInfo@aol.com. www.the-arts-today.com

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pg. 150