April 18th, 2024 e-Edition

Inspiring transformation

Normandy Early Childhood Center a benchmark of success

By Sylvester Brown Jr. St. Louis American

Considering men represent only 2.5% of preschool and kindergarten teachers and 21.5% of elementary and middle school teachers in America, an email to the St. Louis American praising the accomplishments of two Black educators at Normandy Early Learning Center deserved attention and follow-up. LeDominique Rhodes, who described herself as “a parent within the Normandy Schools Collaborative for over a decade,” wrote to say she witnessed “firsthand the remarkable transformation taking place at the Normandy Early Childhood Center.” Rhodes highlighted “the leadership” of the school’s principal and assistant principal, Dr. Lanor Payne, and Aman Lado respectively for the center’s remarkable success and improvements in its “culture, climate, and academic performance.”

A member of the Ayodele Drum and Dance Company performs an acrobatic jump during the BLACK DANCE – USA tribute to Mama Safiyah Chauvin on Saturday, April 13, 2024, at COCA in University City. BLACK DANCE –USA: A Celebration in Movement was celebrated over three days and, along with the tribute concert, included dance festival classes, drumming, vendors and food at Better Family Life, Inc.

$23.5M award to Black undercover police officer beaten by colleagues

By Sylvester Brown Jr.

On Monday, St. Louis Circuit Judge Joseph Whyte awarded nearly $23.5 million to former police officer Luther Hall, who was beaten by colleagues while working undercover during a protest in 2017. The incident occurred during a time of great tension on

Haynes has short stay as Rainbow Push CEO

By Alvin A. Reid St. Louis American

Rev. Jesse Jackson served as CEO of Rainbow Push for 40 years. His predecessor lasted just three months. Pastor Frederick Haynes III abruptly resigned on Monday, catching Jackson and civil rights advocates off guard. Haynes’ decision to step down was first announced by Roland Martin on his Black Star Network. He later told The Associated Press that he submitted his resignation letter, citing personal reflection and a need to step down amid ongoing challenges. Haynes expressed gratitude to Rev. Jackson for the opportunity but did not delve into specifics about his decision. “After a time of prayer and consultation, I felt it was best to step

Minority college faculty members underrepresented

Study praises HBCUs

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire

n Despite modest increases in their numbers over the past two decades, Black and Hispanic individuals remain significantly underrepresented among college faculty.

A study conducted by the Government Accountability Office (GAO), commissioned by Congressman Bobby Scott (D-Virginia), has unveiled concerning trends regarding the representation of Black and Hispanic faculty members in higher education institutions. Despite modest increases in their numbers over the past two decades, Black and Hispanic individuals remain significantly underrepresented among college faculty. The study, which examined data spanning from fiscal years 2003 to 2021, found that while the proportions of Black

Normandy Early Childhood Center Principal Dr. Lanor Payne and Assistant Principal Aman Lado on campus Wednesday, Apr. 10, 2024.

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American

Drake and Rick Ross exchange more barbs, bringing up BBL allegations.

Drake’s alleged diss record’ Push Ups toward a few big names, including Rick Ross, Kendrick Lamar, and other rappers, leaked on social media on Saturday.

In coming for Ross Drake rapped, “I might take your latest girl and cuff her like Ricky/Can’t believe he’s jumping in, this nigga turning 50/ Every song that made it on the chart he got from Drizzy/ Worry ‘bout whatever going on with you and—,”

Ross rushed to get something out in response and mustered up the “Champagne Moments” track in a few hours.

Ross brought up Drake allegedly using ghostwriters and get-

ting cosmetic procedures, including a nose job and a Brazilian lift. Following the diss record release, Ross continued to post the hashtag #BBLDrizzy on social media.

O.J. is gone; executor runs a reverse on settlement

After first saying he would do everything in his power to prevent the payout of a $33.5 million judgment awarded by a California civil jury in a wrongful death lawsuit filed by the families O.J. Simpson’s ex-wife Nicole Simpson and her friend Ron Goldman, the executor of the Simpson estate flipped the script. Simpson died from prostate cancer surrounded by family members, and his will was filed April 12 in a Clark County court in Nevada, naming his longtime lawyer, Malcolm

LaVergne, as the executor. LaVergne told the Las Vegas Review-Journal that the entirety of Simpson’s estate has not been tallied. Under Nevada law, an estate must go through the courts if its assets exceed $20,000.

“It’s my hope that the Goldmans get zero, nothing. Them specifically. And I will do everything in my capacity as the executor or personal representative to try and ensure that they get nothing,” he said. By Monday somebody or something (his conscience?) apparently spoken to the attorney.

“I can tell you in advance, Fred Goldman’s [Ron Goldman’s father] claim will be accepted. And his claim will be handled in accordance with Nevada law,” LaVergne told The Hollywood Reporter.

LaVergne initially said the bulk of the award had not been paid by Simpson’s estate, and that there was never a court order forcing Simpson to pay the civil judgment. Simpson rose to prominence in the late 60s and early 70s. He was awarded NFL Player of the Year in 1973 and played six Pro Bowls. The Pro Football Hall of Fame inducted Simpson in 1985.

‘House Party’ stars got paltry $4K in pay for for movie

Actress AJ Johnson recently said on Jemele Hill’s “Jemele Is Unbothered” podcast that she and her leading cast mates, Tisha Campbell and Kid’n’Play aka Christopher Reid and Christopher Martin, respectively, only made $4,000 for their leading roles in the classic film, “House Party.”

BET reports that Johnson’s character, Sharane, and Play have a Romeo & Juliet-style scene, where Play tries to get Sharane to come out. He then bribes her with Burger King.

On the “Unbothered” podcast, Johnson revealed that the fast food franchise reached out to include her and Play’s scene in a commercial for the brand.

That scene became a commercial that paid the actors more than the $4,000. To AJ’s point, since the film’s 1990 release, it has become a major and classic piece of pop culture.

By the way, $4,000 in 1990 is worth about $9,474 today - which means the leads really got ripped off.

Sources: Las Vegas Review, Hollywood Reporter, BET, X (Twitter)

Metro East residents air their grievances with Veolia

‘The

By Kate Grumke St. Louis Public Radio

East St. Louis residents and members of other Metro East communities living near a hazardous waste processing facility discussed their ongoing concerns about air quality at a public meeting Monday.

Veolia Environmental Services Technical Solutions is applying to renew its Clean Air Act operating permit for its facility in Sauget for another five years. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency held the meeting to begin seeking public comment on the permit renewal.

The Veolia facility stores and burns hazardous waste, including propellants and explosives, inorganic waste and other types of hazardous materials, according to the company’s website. It has three hazardous waste incinerators at this location.

The Clean Air Act requires facilities that emit large amounts of air pollution to apply for operating permits. The permit lays out how much pollution a facility can emit and what the facility will do to control the pollution, according to the EPA

People living near the facility have had concerns about air quality for years. Terrance Taylor lived at what he called “ground zero” for pollution about 12 years ago.

“Those toxic fumes would come down on me, they would wake me up from my sleep,” Taylor said. “It was horrible. You know, you can’t even go outside and get a breath of fresh air.”

Taylor eventually moved because he did not want his son to grow up in a polluted environment. Now he’d like to see a community committee that could work directly with Veolia to address the concerns.

A representative from Veolia was at the meeting but declined to be interviewed by St. Louis Public Radio.

At the Monday meeting, organizers and others called for transparency and more regular community engagement related to the permit, including direct canvassing of the people living nearby. The EPA said there are about 165 households within a 1-mile radius of the facility.

Deeper concerns about how pollution disproportionately harms communities of color in the Metro East also came up at the meeting. The EPA acknowledges there have been long-standing environmental justice issues in the area.

Other plants in the area also release pollutants, said EPA senior environmental engineer David Ogulei on Monday. Veolia releases more nitrogen oxides than nearby facilities, but it releases less particulate matter, volatile organic compounds and toxic air pollutants.

In 2021, the EPA found Veolia was violating multiple air pollution regulations meant to control hazardous waste, including the carbon monoxide emission standard, which the EPA said “is an indication that equipment was not properly destroying the hazardous waste that was fed to it.” The EPA lays out issues with the facility in

a Finding of Violation issued on Sept. 23, 2021.

The EPA monitored air near the facility from June 2021 to March 2022 and said it “did not detect anything that would have short- or long-term health effects for people living nearby.” The agency said this was the most extensive air monitoring it was conducting in the Midwest at the time.

Still, Dale Wojtkowski said there are a lot of people in the area who are sick and don’t know why. Wojtkowski is pres-

ident of the American Bottom Conservancy, which has been involved in legal challenges involving the facility. “On any particular day, they might be able to monitor and say that the air is great, but we know that’s not always the case,” Wojtkowski said. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is also studying the potential health effects of pollution from the facility.

In 2019, U.S. Sen. Tammy Duckworth requested the CDC’s Agency for Toxic Substances

and Disease Registry conduct a health consultation in Sauget to determine whether the facility is harming the health of the surrounding community. That study is ongoing and will be more in-depth than the EPA analysis. The EPA will accept written public comment on the permit application until May 15. The facility’s current permit expires on July 18, but the facility can operate until the EPA issues a new permit.

Joshua Carter / Belleville News-Democrat

Terrance Taylor, an East St. Louis resident, watches as EPA representatives host a meeting for community feedback on Monday in Cahokia Heights. Taylor is a community advocate and vice president of Community Development Sustainable Solutions, a nonprofit based in East St. Louis.

Trump’s white privilege is on trial

By Keith Boykin

Imagine if President Obama had paid hush money to a porn star to try to cover up an adulterous affair. Imagine if he did it again with a Playboy model. Then, imagine that he falsified business records to conceal the scandal.

Almost everybody in America, Democrat and Republican, Black and white, would be upset with Obama. But that’s not the case with Donald Trump, the man who famously claimed he could stand in the middle of Fifth Avenue and shoot somebody and wouldn’t lose any voters.

As Trump’s criminal trial begins in Manhattan, Republicans are proving once again that their alleged values are really double standards.

When Obama was president, Republicans complained that simply wearing a tan suit at a press conference in the summer of 2014 was “shocking,” inexcusable, and “unpresidential,” despite the fact that many other presidents had worn tan suits in the past.

Ahh, those were the days.

fraud judgment, an $83 million defamation verdict, another $25 million fraud settlement, a $5 million sexual assault verdict, a $1.6 million corporate tax fraud conviction, a fake university shut down and his fake charity shut down after he was caught using the money to buy a lifesize portrait of himself, Trump can rely on the self-anointed “law-and-order” party to pretend like he’s the legendary crime fighter Elliot Ness instead of the infamous mob boss Al Capone.

If Obama had committed any one of the crimes of which Trump is accused, his political career would have ended immediately, and he would likely have been arrested and imprisoned long ago.

Republicans attacked Obama when he spoke about the death of unarmed Black teenager Trayvon Martin in 2012. Speaking as a Black parent of two girls, Obama said, “If I had a son, he’d look like Trayvon.” But former Republican House Speaker Newt Gingrich called Obama’s remarks “disgraceful,” and former Republican Senator Rick Santorum accused the president of trying to “divide” Americans.

Republicans also blasted Obama in 2009 when he was asked a question at a press conference about Harvard Professor Henry Louis Gates being arrested for breaking into his own home. Obama opined that the Cambridge Police had acted stupidly” by arresting him even after he showed his identification to them. Republicans pounced on Obama and even introduced a congressional resolution demanding he apologize to the police.

After 88 felony charges, eight aides convicted, four criminal indictments, two impeachments, a half billion dollar

Even when Trump admits his infidelity and moral failures, as he did in the famous “Access Hollywood” tape, it doesn’t bother his white evangelical followers who love to police Black people’s moral behavior but not their own.

In a famous 1989 article, scholar Peggy McIntosh describes white privilege as “an invisible weightless knapsack of special provisions, maps, passports, codebooks, visas, clothes, tools and blank checks.”

As state and federal courts continue to delay Trump’s trials and reduce his penalties, Donald Trump’s ability to avoid consequences for his illegal, unconstitutional, and immoral behavior epitomizes those invisible blank checks of white privilege.

For those who don’t know American politics and think the Trump campaign is just an amusing but unthreatening sideshow, it is not. This is dangerous. This has never happened before in the history of our country. This is not normal. This is white privilege.

Keith Boykin is a New York Times–bestselling author and former CNN political commentator. He is examining issues, candidates, and what’s at stake for Black America in the 2024 presidential election for Word in Black, a digital cohort of which the St. Louis American is a member.

As I See It - A Forum for Community Issues

By David W. Marshall

Despite the wide-ranging opinions and perspectives held by individuals representing different cultures and political persuasions, there is a common dominator that should connect people of goodwill.

Facts should easily be accepted by everyone, regardless of their backgrounds. But facts are easily misconstrued, downplayed, or ignored.

It is a fact that Barack Obama was the 44th president of the United States. Yet, conspiracy theories surrounding Obama’s place of birth and religion were embraced by some.

It is a fact that Joe Biden is the 46th president of the United States, yet those who embrace the false claims of a stolen election are unwilling to accept him as a legitimate president.

The deadly collapse of Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge after a container ship lost power and collided with it has created enormous repercussions for the Baltimore region and the nation.

collapse, President Biden stated, “My administration is committed, absolutely committed, to ensuring that the parties responsible for this tragedy pay to repair the damage and be fully held accountable the law will allow.

Biden added, “I fully intend, as the governor knows, to have the federal government cover the cost of rebuilding this entire bridge — all of it, all of it — as we’ve done in other parts of the country in similar circumstances.”

The Port of Baltimore is one of the busiest ports in the country, and it plays a critical role in the local, regional, and national economies. The port’s inaccessibility is being felt throughout the country.

It is the largest importer/exporter of vehicles in the U.S., with 800,000 cars moving through the port in 2023. Local and national businesses are collaborating with government authorities and other stakeholders to minimize the impact on the supply chain.

Most importantly, six construction workers are believed to have fallen from the collapsing bridge into the Patapsco River. The bodies of two missing workers have since been recovered, while four are unaccounted for.

Undoubtedly, the bridge’s reconstruction funding will face major hurdles in Congress. An influential group of House Republicans has already made it known that they will place strings on any new federal funding to replace the bridge.

After taking an aerial tour of the

The response from a small group of House Republicans is not surprising. The surprise is how this unintentional maritime accident is being used as a conservative dog whistle to attack Mayor Brandon Scott of Baltimore.

One user on X, formally known as Twitter, called Scott “Baltimore’s DEI mayor” when referring to a video of the mayor speaking about praying for those affected by the deadly collapse and acknowledging the efforts of the first responders.

Phil Lyman, a Utah Republican and gubernatorial candidate, included Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, also Black, in his attack. Lyman wrote, “This is what happens when you have Governors who prioritize diversity over the wellbeing and security of citizens.”

What is Phil Lyman talking about?

What does diversity have to do with undermining the security of citizens?

It is a fact that the race of Mayor Brandon Scott and Gov. Wes Moore as Black leaders has nothing to do with the unintended collapse of the bridge.

How many people will accept that fact?

DEI has now become a racist dog whistle, detracting from the tragedy of the lost lives and the impact on the economy. This distortion of DEI gives them a reason to reject the authority of any Black elected leader.

By Carmike Jones

The problem with our schools is that we have yet to acknowledge the real problem. The schools are merely a reflection of our society at large – of us. Yes, us meaning me and you. The changes we see in schools hold up a mirror to the changes we see across our country.

The backlash against diversity, equity and inclusion is happening in the courtroom, state house and in the classroom. The book bans show the efforts of some Americans to keep themselves comfortable while other students remain uncomfortable. Some people prefer to keep the achievements and culture of Black, Latinx and Asian American children left out of the school curriculum altogether, even if it means an inaccurate telling of history that leads to bias and discrimination in the future. It feels like the diversification of classroom materials was just getting started. Now, those strides are being quickly reversed. We were only beginning to learn about the atrocities that took place from this country’s founders and the lengths they were willing to go to acquire this land. Soon we will be right back to, “In 1492, Columbus sailed the ocean blue.”

10 percent of the distribution held 72% of total wealth,” meaning the richest families own almost three quarters of the country’s wealth. Thus, some schools have way more and some have way less. Resources at schools are out of balance when the whole country is out of balance.

The biases students face when entering their respective classrooms are our biases – the adults, the taxpayers, the decision-makers. There are some classrooms where students are just being supervised instead of being taught. Very little, if any, learning is taking place. Imagine a school staff person who believes that children from a certain zip code are not as smart or capable as children on the other side of town, that can affect their students for years.

The widening education gap is keeping pace with the widening wealth gap. The rich are most definitely getting richer. In extreme cases, top earners like Jeff Bezos raked in nearly eight million dollars per hour in 2023, according to Yahoo Finance. Compare that to the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. The top one percent of Americans earn a little under $600,000 per year meaning 99% of Americans make less than that. That cannot be understated.

Nearly all Americans earn a small fraction of what the wealthy rake in annually. In 2022 the Congressional Budget Office report on wealth trends from 1989-2019 showed, “In 2019, families in the top

The bias they walked in the door with is the poison that will likely hold their students back from reaching their full potential in that classroom. Now imagine if that same staff person has the power to determine which student is sent on the gifted track and which student is sent down the special needs track. Then imagine this staff person wielding that power for years or decades. How many students would fall through the cracks under their watch? This happens all the time. I have seen it. You have seen it. And yet the phenomenon persists. It’s not the kids. It’s not the charter schools. It’s us. All of us.

We create barriers that need not exist. We create biases that help no one. We create gaps in resources instead of finding real solutions. We can do something about this problem as soon as we own it. We can start with believing in the possibility of greatness for all children – not based on their gender identity, zip code, socioeconomic status or race. Carmike Jones is Indianapolis Recorder

Guest Columnist Keith Boykin

Deltas to hold ‘Trunks Up’ community event April 27

St. Louis American

The St. Louis Delta Foundation and partners will move its spring community service work to five St. Louis area streets during its “Trunks UP Extravaganza” from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, April 27, 2024.

The Delta Foundation is working with the St. Louis Alumnae (SLA), Alpha Omega City-Wide Chapter, East St. Louis Alumnae, the St. Louis Metropolitan Alumnae chapters of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., local retailers and community organizations for the community service event like October’s Trunk or Treat.

Cars decorated with their “trunks up,” will line the streets to give away personal care hygiene products and non-perishable food items at:

· East St. Louis-St. Vincent DePaul, 3718 State St., East St. Louis, IL 62203

· Berkeley Fire Station 8404 Airport Road, St. Louis, MO 63134

· Patrick Henry Elementary School 1220

N. 10th Street, St Louis, MO 63106

· New Spring Church 10229 Lewis and Clark Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63136

· St. Philips Lutheran Church, 2424 Annie

n Cars decorated with their “trunks up,” will line the streets to give away personal care hygiene products and non-perishable food items.

Malone Dr., St. Louis, MO 63113

“This is our third year and one of our signature community events,” said Dawn Gipson, St. Louis Delta Foundation chair.

“Last year, with the help of the Black Nurses Association, we served over 800 unhoused and/or underserved residents across six locations. With the help of more community partners and volunteers this year, we expect to serve close to 1,500.”

Items that will be in the trunks include soap, deodorant, toothpaste, laundry detergent, and hand sanitizer, as well as light healthy snacks.

To donate personal hygiene products and non-perishable food items, please call (314) 274-1368 for a wish list of desired items.

By Elinor Tatum

Losing a loved one is a horrible ordeal. Losing a child can be even harder to reconcile. Last week, a friend and former colleague lost his 33-year-old son, a vibrant young man full of life and love, in a tragic accident.

When I talked to my friend shortly after the passing of his son, this grieving father said to me with a smile, “He was an organ donor. Four of his organs are being used to save other people.”

My friend is a devout man, a God-fearing man. A man who believes in something much bigger than all of us. He took some solace in knowing that from his son’s death, five others may live. Five strangers, who may have been languishing on transplant lists for months or even years, will get a chance at a long and productive life because this young man checked a box on the back of his driver’s license.

While that act of generosity will never bring his son back, I think my friend is finding a little bit of comfort in knowing a part of his child lives on.

In 2023, for example, there were a total of 23,294 donors, both living and deceased in the U.S. In that same year, there were only 3,062 Black organ donors, from whom 9,176 organs were harvested. Of those 7,516 were transplanted. That means over 21,000 Black people most likely won’t or didn’t get a transplant over the last year.

Black people represent only 15% of organ donors in the U.S. yet represent more than 23% of people on transplant waiting lists. These numbers are grim. And the reality is that they will not change unless people make a conscious decision that, should the unthinkable happen, they can still do some good.

While August is National Minority Donor Awareness Month, thousands of African Americans are in desperate need of lifesaving organ transplants.

Dr. Christopher Sonnenday, M.D., the director of the University of Michigan Transplant Center and the executive vice-chair of the Department of Surgery at the University of Michigan Medical School shared his thoughts on the organ donor need in the Black community with the Michigan Chronicle in 2022.

“While there is often discussion about hesitancy towards deceased and living donation in the Black community – [it is] understandable hesitancy based upon historic mistreatment of Black patients in American medicine,” Sonnenday said.

“The challenge is that the need for transplants in the Black community is large, and the entire transplant community – centers, organ procurement organizations, donors needs to rise to meet that challenge.

“Our goal at the transplant center is to increase engagement with Black communities around the state to better understand their needs and goals, such that we may better serve them in expanding access to transplantation.”

Checking a small box on your driver’s license can make a big difference for thousands of Black patients awaiting organ transplants

Checking that box is no small decision. It is a gut-wrenchingly hard one that will not change the outcome for one but could change the lives of many. One deceased donor can save up to eight lives.

While my friend’s heart will ache from now until eternity, he knows his son’s last act was one of generosity, kindness, and love for others. As he left this world, he gave four others the greatest gift he could: LIFE.

Elinor Tatum is the publisher of The Amsterdam News

Delta Sigma Theta Foundation and partners will celebrate the Trunks Up community event on April 27, 2024 at five locations throughout the region. From left are Tracey Carter, 2nd vice president; LaVerne Bady 1st vice president; and Dr. Bernadette White SLA chapter president.

Photo by Kelli Jordan / Courtesy DST Foundation

Elinor Tatum

Center

Continued from A1

“In the face of numerous challenges, the Normandy Early Learning Center has undergone a truly inspiring transformation under their visionary leadership,” Rhodes said. “Their campus has the highest student and staff attendance in the district, the largest academic achievement gains and 100% certified staff. At the beginning of the school year, only 9% of kindergartners were reading [at] grade level. Now, an impressive 65% are reading on or above grade level.”

The center is a collaborative that works in association with the Normandy School District. Normandy Early Learning Center opened in August of 2019, a year before the pandemic disrupted classrooms in Missouri and throughout the country.

“With COVID-19 and building construction behind schedule, this was a very difficult process,” Crystal Hunter, director of early learning at the center, told the American in 2020, adding: “However, we have a great team who all worked very hard to achieve this recognition.”

Haynes

Continued from A1

down as president and CEO of Rainbow PUSH,” he said.

“I am forever honored that the Rev. Jackson graciously considered me worthy of following him as president of the organization that he founded.”

In a statement issued

The center received its Missouri license five months ahead of its scheduled 2021 date. According to Public School Review, which provides data analysis of all public schools in the country, the school serves 310 (prekindergarten and kindergarten) students; has a student/teacher ratio of 11:1 (lower than the Missouri state level of 13:1) and has a 99% minority student body enrollment (also higher than the state’s average of 31%).

A 2020 Columbia University study titled “Exploring the Relationships Between Black Boys and Black Male Teachers in Early Childhood Education,” found that Black male teachers perceived their relationships with Black boys in early childhood classrooms as an empowering force. Respondents said they help Black boys “see their individual potential and future success in life; and added that they (Black male educators) showcase “affection that is often not expressed towards Black boys in early childhood due to implicit biases,’” by utilizing “verbal praise, loving gestures, and body language.”

Payne agrees with the University’s assessment,

on Tuesday evening, Rev. Jackson expressed his gratitude to Rev. Haynes for “his service and leadership.”

“Our relationship with Rev. Haynes has been blessed by God to last over 30 great years. We remain eternal partners in the fight for peace, civil rights and economic justice.”

When Rev. Jackson announced in July that he was stepping

adding that his staff of three other Black educators (assistant principal, teacher, and a teacher’s assistant) work to the center’s advantage.

“A lot of our students come from single-parent households. Their fathers are either not in their lives or they don’t have positive male role models. So, honestly, it helps us because, when it comes to dealing with kids with misbehavior (issues) some of our students respond better to our male staff than would do with our female staff.

n The center is a collaborative that works in association with the Normandy School District.

Normandy

Early Learning Center opened in August of 2019.

“We just wear many hats here. I tell people that ‘I’m not only a principal; I’m a father, an uncle, a pastor, a counselor, a nurse…(laughs), you know, we deal with it all.”

In response to Rhodes’ compliment about the “impressive 65%” of students who read at or above grade level, Payne credited his staff, parents and the “all-hands-on-deck atmosphere” employed at Normandy Early Learning Center.

“We really focus on and drill down on data.

down, Haynes, senior pastor of Friendship-West Baptist Church in Dallas, was announced as his eventual successor.

During his installation at the February ceremony, Haynes stated his intention to continue Rev. Jackson’s mission and work.

“I stand not in his shoes but on his shoulders, and because I stand on his shoulders, I hope you stand with me,”

We look at what our students are doing well and the areas they’re lacking in then come up with intervention plans to enhance their reading and math skills. It’s not just on the teachers. We also have parental involvement here; our parents are really invested in their kid’s education. Our families do their part at home when it comes to homework and going over certain skills their child hasn’t mastered at home as well.”

In her letter Rhodes said Payne and his staff “has created a space where students feel empowered to express their voices and make choices about their education.”

Payne stressed that there is no culturally based formula that helped achieve that goal.

“Honestly, you just have to take on a mentality of educating the whole child and getting out of that mentality where all students learn the same, because they don’t,” Payne said.

“The big factor with

Haynes told those who attended the ceremony.

Vice President Kamala Harris, at the Rainbow/ PUSH convention where Haynes was announced in July 2023, said, “I am so confident in his leadership and his ability to carry on the greatest traditions of this organization and to meet the challenges of this moment.”

Rev. Jackson said during the convention

educating kids of color is to keep them engaged and keep them involved. You can’t expect them to just sit down, listen to you and just do their work. You must have engaging lessons and engaging activities that keep them interested and on task. It’s the same be it a Black, brown, or white student. You must be very smart and strategic about differentiating your instructions to make sure you are meeting the needs of all the learners in your classroom.”

Like Rhodes, Payne also praised his assistant principal, Aman Lado. The educator that staff and students call “Mr. Aman,” is a former U.S. marine who served seven years and a tour of combat duty during Operation Desert Storm.

“What I really love about Mr. Aman is that he has a heart and passion for the kids as well. He’s always positive and pleasant with the kids and families. He’s not a yeller or a screamer; he’s a nurturer who has the student’s best interest at heart,” Payne said.

“And he doesn’t give up on kids. He always tries to find the third way to make a student or a teacher successful. He just makes my job a lot easier.”

Payne, who’s been head of the center for only a

that the Rainbow PUSH Coalition would continue “to work for people and their right to fight for self-determination and social and economic justice.”

“We will carry on the vital work of protecting, defending, and gaining civil rights by leveling the economic and educational playing fields. Our commitment to promoting peace and justice around the world

year, isn’t satisfied with reaching an improved benchmark of students who read at or above grade level. He’s confident that the upcoming final assessment will show students’ scores will be within the 80-to-85% range. Still, he insists, some children-who may have had academic improvement-will be repeating kindergarten because they have not met their “end-of-the-year individual growth plans.”

“I tell people, first grade is the hardest grade to teach, because that’s where all the big skills are introduced. I don’t believe in sending kids to the next grade if they’re not ready.

So, I have five students who will be repeating kindergarten, and their parents are on board with that as well.”

Academic success, Payne insists, is not solely based on improved math or reading scores.

“I know a lot of parents want their kids to read (well) at the end of the school year, but, for me, a good year means a student successfully grew academically. I always tell my staff, ‘As long as we have growth, that’s what I’m most concerned with.”

Sylvester Brown Jr. is the Deaconess Foundation Community Advocacy Fellow.

remains unwavering.” Haynes has served as senior pastor at Friendship-West since 1983, which now has about 13,000 members, according to the church. Haynes said, “I hit the ground running over the summer with duties in the office.” Adding that he hoped he could collaborate with Rainbow PUSH and Jackson in the future.

Officer

Continued from A1

After the acquittal on September 17, 2017, police, who expected large groups of protesters, prepared a heavy response.

Roughly 200 officers from the “Civil Disobedience Team” were dispatched to handle protesters. It was only the first of many protests that spanned the city and county that year.

Police clashed with protesters downtown, arresting more than 120 people. Hall, who is Black, and officer Louis Naes, who is white, were embedded undercover among the marchers. Both were arrested. Naes told investigators that while his arrest “was routine,” officers dressed in heavy armor, “beat the f**k out of (Hall)…like Rodney King.” The Rev. Darryl Gray, then community liaison for the Ethical Society of Police-a police association which represents primarily Black officers-recalled how the organization immediately called on the department to investigate the assault.

“It didn’t matter that he was a police officer,” Gray said, “all they saw was his color.”

A year later, 2018, four St. Louis police officers were indicted on federal charges claiming that three of them beat an undercover colleague during protests and, according to federal prosecutors, all four then covered it up. Prosecutors

Faculty

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and Hispanic faculty members have seen slight upticks, they continue to lag behind their representation in the broader workforce, particularly among workers with advanced degrees and professionals.

“The good news is that faculty diversity has improved over the last 20 years. The bad news is that faculty diversity is still not representative of the students they teach,” Scott stated.

Further, the study highlighted a stark disparity between the racial and ethnic composition of faculty and that of the student body, indicating a systemic issue within higher education.

“Addressing the underrepresentation of Black and Hispanic faculty is not only a matter of diversity but also impacts the overall quality of

alleged that the officers, Dustin Boone, Randy Hays, and Christopher Myers threw, kicked, and beat Hall with batons “while he was compliant and not posing a physical threat to anyone.” The indictment also claimed that several of the officers exchanged messages that “expressed disdain” for protesters and “excitement about using unjustified force against them and going undetected while doing so.”

In one Sept. 15, 2017, text message, Myers wrote, “let’s whoop some ass.” Prosecutors also presented messages from Hays saying; “going rogue does feel good” and Boone replying: “it’s gonna be a lot of fun beating the hell out of these (expletive) once the sun goes down and nobody can tell us apart!!!!”

The officers faced charges of depriving Hall of his constitutional rights and conspiracy to obstruct justice. Another officer, Bailey Colletta, was accused of lying to a federal grand jury investigating the incident. Not only did she deny encountering Hall the night of his arrest, but Colletta lied when she said he was “brought to the ground very gently.” Police sources initially said Hall only suffered a bloody lip during the arrest, but Hall’s injuries were much more extensive. The kick to his face damaged his jaw to the point where he could not eat and wound up losing about 20 pounds while in recovery. Hall testified that

education and student outcomes,” study authors wrote. “It’s imperative that we hold institutions accountable for fostering inclusive environments that reflect the diversity of our society.”

The study identified the processing of employment discrimination complaints as one significant barrier. Both current and prospective faculty members have the option to file complaints with either the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Department of Education. However, the study revealed persistent delays in the referral of complaints from the Department of Education to the EEOC.

In fiscal year 2022 alone, the Department of Education processed and referred 99 complaints alleging employment discrimination at colleges, with an average referral time of 71 days—well beyond the mandated 30-day period. Such delays not only prolong the res-

STEM Festival

he also sustained an injury to his tailbone and had to have surgery to repair two herniated discs in his neck and one in his back.

Boone was eventually sentenced to 366 days in prison, Myers received a year’s probation and Colletta was sentenced to three years’ probation and two consecutive weekends in prison for lying to a grand jury about what she saw during the assault Hall sued three of his former colleagues Hays, Boone, and Myers for their roles in the attack. By that time, two of his former officers, Hays and Colletta had pleaded guilty. Officer Steven Korte, who Hays testified kicked Hall in the face, was acquitted of the

olution process but also perpetuate instances of discrimination and inequity within academia.

In response to the findings, the GAO has issued recommendations aimed at enhancing accountability and efficiency in the processing of discrimination complaints. Scott has urged swift action from both the Department of Education and the EEOC to address the systemic disparities and processing delays highlighted in the study.

According to the study authors, historically Black colleges, and universities, among other minority-serving establishments, have had success in nurturing and advancing academic members of color into tenure-track jobs, which offer greater security than adjunct or part-time employment.

The authors noted that these schools frequently prioritize the education of students of color in the recruiting and professional development of their pro-

charges against him. Hall was awarded a $5 million settlement from the city.

On Monday, Judge Whyte awarded Hall $10 million in punitive damages, $11 million for past and future physical and emotional pain and almost $2 million for lost wages. He additionally awarded Hall more than $213,000 for lost delayed retirement and insurance benefits and health insurance benefits, as well as about $366,000 for past and future medical expenses.

In response to the settlement, Lynette Petruska, Hall’s lawyer said: “Luther is grateful that Judge Whyte took his brutal assault by fellow officers

fessors. The GAO research suggests that enhancing mentorship, conducting retention studies, and providing leadership opportunities are effective strategies to enhance the retention of

and its life-changing consequences more seriously than the City of St. Louis and the St. Louis police department did.”

Rev. Gray was pleasantly surprised by Hall’s multi-million-dollar award.

“When you’re dealing with this ‘Blue Wall of Silence,’ the Police Bill of Rights (state legislation passed in 2021 that gives officers special legal protections, closes files to police misconduct and allows courts to block major cuts in police budgets) and Qualified Immunity (protects police from individual liability unless he/she violated a clearly established constitutional right), it is so difficult to hold police offi-

faculty members who are of color. The survey also discovered that a positive campus environment affected teachers’ decision to remain at their schools. The authors concluded. “Our nation’s colleges

cers accountable,” Gray said, adding: “It is almost impossible because the bar is set so high.” Gray worries that police and city officials still haven’t learned from costly settlements related to aggressive actions and the violation of protesters rights.

“Unfortunately, this happened to Luther (Hall) but it’s not uncommon,” Gray said. “That’s what we’ve been trying to say, hoping that police will acknowledge that the complaints and concerns we’ve raised over the years have been genuine.

Sylvester Brown Jr. is the Deaconess Foundation Community Advocacy Fellow.

and universities must be bastions of diversity and inclusion, and addressing the underrepresentation of minority faculty is a critical step towards achieving that goal.”

Octavia Thomas and her son Christopher Caldwell III, a second grader at Brown Elementary School in the Hazelwood School District, attend a STEM Festival at the Boys And Girls Clubs on N. Grand Friday, Apr. 12, 2024.

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American

Free contraception to be provided in 31 locations

Use of contraception has not been outlawed in the state of Missouri and Missouri Foundation for Health and Planned Parenthood officials say it is important for women to know all of their options.

es that make it easier for people in Missouri, including those who are uninsured or underinsured, to receive quality contraceptive care.

By Genoa Barrow

the future. We will continue to work with partners statewide to ensure equitable access to quality contraceptive health information and services.” The initiative is focused on offering patients same-day access to all methods of birth control and has resourc-

“Missourians concerned with the ability to get birth control in the future will have an opportunity to enshrine reproductive freedom, including birth control, into the state Constitution, if enough signatures are gathered to put the issue on the ballot,” Trupiano noted. Approximately six in ten (59%)

“Sticks and stones can break your bones, but words can never hurt you.” The old ditty seeks to empower children to ignore negative things people say, but that isn’t always easy to do. Words do have the power to cause pain and they have been particularly weaponized, and normalized, in relation to mental illness. There has been pushback with increased awareness of mental health. Here’s a brief list of some harmful words and their histories.

Retarded: The word is used in reference to someone with below average intelligence and life skills, typically from birth. The shortening of the word to “retard” is a definite diss, whether a person really has mental issues or not. Urban vernacular includes calling someone “hecka retarded” or telling someone that they’re “so retarded.”

n Retarded is viewed by some as hate speech. The politically correct (PC) term is now “intellectually disabled.” Thousands of Missourians struggle to keep coverage

In the early 2000s, the Black Eyed Peas changed their song “Let’s Get Retarded” to “Let’s Get It Started,” although the original version can still be found online. Retarded is viewed by some as hate speech. The politically correct (PC) term is now “intellectually disabled.”

Spaz: This word has been used as a verb and a noun, to describe both the act of being out of control and a person who displays such behavior. It stems from the word “spastic,” which is

Photo courtesy of welcomebaby.org

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American

Genoa Barrow

Medicaid

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other coverage — through an employer, Medicare, the Affordable Care Act’s insurance marketplace, or health care for members of the military, the survey by KFF found.

“23% is a striking number, especially when you think about the number of people who lost Medicaid coverage,” said Chima Ndumele, an associate professor of health policy at the Yale University School of Public Health.

Going without insurance, even for a short period of time, can lead people to delay seeking care and leave them at financial risk when they do.

Seven in 10 adults who were disenrolled during the unwinding process say they became uninsured at least temporarily when they lost their Medicaid coverage.

Of adults enrolled in Medicaid before the unwinding, about 35% who tried to renew their coverage described the process as difficult, and about 48% said it was at least somewhat stressful.

About 56% of those disenrolled say they skipped or delayed care or prescriptions while attempting to renew their Medicaid coverage.

“People’s current insurance status is likely

Birth control

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are concerned about elected officials in the state enacting laws that restrict people from getting birth control. In addition, almost one-third of survey respondents (31%) believe that birth control will be more difficult to get in two years than it is now.

Although 85% of Missouri residents are supportive of people 18-35 having access to all methods of birth control – including 85% of Republicans, 92% of Democrats, and 84% of Independents – about one-third (31%) of survey respondents say that policymakers in Missouri are not supportive of birth control, according to the survey data.

The survey also shows that there is widespread support for greater access to birth control, including one policy advancing in the legislature with bipartisan support. Fully 77% of respondents, believe patients should be able to get a yearlong supply of birth control, (including 75% of Republicans, 84% of Democrats, and 74% of

Barrow

Continued from A8 used in relation to people who lose motor skills due to conditions such as cerebral palsy or epilepsy that make them prone to spasms. In 2022, recording artist Lizzo received backlash for using the word in her song “Grrrls.” Lizzo later removed it, saying that as a plus-sized Black woman, she has been called derogatory names and knows that words can be hurtful.

Schizoid: There’s been online debate about this one with the general consensus being that while it is a technical term

to be very much in flux, and we would expect at least some of the people who say they are currently uninsured to reenroll in Medicaid — many say they are still trying — or enroll in other coverage within a short period of time,” said Jennifer Tolbert, a co-author of the KFF report and the director of KFF’s State Health Reform and Data Program. The survey didn’t include children, and the KFF researchers said their findings, therefore, couldn’t be extrapolated to determine how the Medicaid unwinding has affected the overall U.S. uninsured rate, which hit a record low of 7.7% in early 2023. Nearly half of enrollees in Medicaid and the related Children’s Health Insurance Program

Independents).

“The Right Time remains fully committed to reducing barriers to contraception and improving access to reliable and relatable information about birth control,” Kathleen Holmes, vice president of strategic initiatives at Missouri Foundation for Health, said.

“Our simple belief is that everyone should have the opportunity to pursue the future they want, including if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant.”

Dr. Colleen McNicholas, chief medical officer of Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region and Southwest Missouri, talk about how the data gathered from this survey was “not surprising at all.”

“We’ve always known that in states like Missouri, where sexual reproductive healthcare are constantly being attacked, that it wasn’t going to stop at abortion, and that birth control is the…most realistic next step and so I think that folks are concerned about the state specifically legislators attacking birth control and eliminating access for folks,” McNicholas said.

for someone diagnosed with schizophrenia, it is offensive when used as a generalization for anyone suffering from mental illness or in reference to anyone perceived to be acting as if they have a mental illness.

Crazy: Universally accepted word for someone displaying behavior that isn’t deemed to be “normal.” The word, and its widespread use, are likely here to stay.

Beyonce famously sang about being “Crazy In Love” and TLC named one of their most successful albums “CrazySexyCool.”

Psycho: Shortened from “psychopath” and derived from the Greek word “psykho,” which

are children.

The unwinding, in which states are reassessing eligibility for Medicaid among millions of Americans who enrolled before or during the pandemic and dropping those who no longer qualify or did not complete the renewal process, won’t be completed until later this year. Enrollment in Medicaid and CHIP grew to a record of nearly 94.5 million in April of last year, three years after the federal government prohibited states from cutting people from their rolls during the COVID-19 public health emergency. Nationally, states

have disenrolled about 20 million people from Medicaid in the past year, most of them for procedural reasons such as failure to submit required paperwork. That number is expected to grow, as states have a few more months to redetermine enrollees’ eligibility. Among adults who had Medicaid prior to the start of the unwinding, 83% retained their coverage or reenrolled, while 8% found other insurance and 8% were uninsured. The share left uninsured was larger in states that have not expanded Medicaid under the ACA (17%) than

n “The results of this survey make clear that many Missourians are worried about their ability to access this basic health care in the future. We will continue to work with partners statewide to ensure equitable access to quality contraceptive health information and services.”

– Michelle Trupiano, Missouri Family Health Council executive director

On other issues regarding contraceptive access in the data gathered by Initiative: nearly eight in ten (77%) are supportive of allowing pharmacists to prescribe contraception. McNicholas talked about how birth control methods are still currently legal but should be made more accessible.

“Right now, in the state of Missouri, all birth control methods are legal and available, and the Right Time Initiative partners with organizations like ourselves across the state to help provide

means “mental.” It’s used in a derogatory manner to describe a person prone to “losing their mind” and committing heinous acts. Today the word is often used in toxic relationships and can be seen as both a scary and attractive quality.

Loony: A derogatory term for the mentally ill, shortened from “lunatic.” It has been used in the past to describe a person who is considered crazy, silly or strange. Persons whose actions are unpredictable and irrational have been called “a loony tune.”

Touched: Back in the day, Black people would say a person with mental illness was “touched in the head,” or simply

access to all of those methods for folks who have financial insecurities and can’t afford the methods or are either uninsured or underinsured,” she said. The data went on to report that eight in 10 (78%) think emergency rooms in Missouri should make contraception available to survivors of domestic and sexual violence or human trafficking (including 82% of Republicans, 87% of Democrats and 72% of Independents). McNicholas said there may be steps taken to eliminate that access and

“touched.” Today there are more PC, and more tactful, terms to use like “on the spectrum,” if speaking on someone with autism.

Not right: As in, “He’s not right,” or “She’s not right in the head.” Bokeem Woodbine played a character named Can’t Get Right in the 1999 film “Life.” The usage became unpopular with time because it implies that something is “wrong” with a person with challenges or disabilities.

While not an actual word, a gesture that has fallen out of favor over the years is circling one’s finger around

disrupted. Navas said the state could not explain why her 12-year-old daughter, Camila, remained covered by Medicaid even though the children live in the same household with their parents. “It doesn’t make sense that they would cover one of my children and not the other,” she said.

in states that have (6%).

Forty states have expanded Medicaid to cover everyone with an income under 138% of the federal poverty rate, or $31,200 for a family of four this year.

The KFF survey found that nearly 1 in 3 disenrolled adults discovered only when they sought health care — such as going to a doctor or a pharmacy — that they had been dropped from Medicaid.

Indira Navas of Miami found out that her 6-yearold son, Andres, had been disenrolled from Florida’s Medicaid program when she took him to a doctor appointment in March. She had scheduled Andres’ appointment months in advance and is frustrated that he remains uninsured and his therapy for anxiety and hyperactivity has been

make it more difficult for folks to plan the pregnancies and families that they want in the future.

“There are many reasons people use birth control, pregnancy prevention certainly is one of them, but most of our birth control methods are also really good at some non-contraceptive benefits, like cancer prevention,” she said explained.

IUDs: Advantageous contraceptive or just agonizing?

“Although IUDs are incredibly effective and have increased in popularity over the last 10 years, it is true that the insertion process for some people can be uncomfortable or even painful. It’s important that as providers, we acknowledge that and we provide space too, for patients to tell us what they need in that insertion experience,” said McNicholas.

“We are going live with a new service at Planned Parenthood, where we offer to patients, from [having] their IUD inserted with the assistance of sedation, medication. We recognize that the sexual health experience, the pelvic exam, all the steps of coming to see an OBGYN

one’s ear in pointing out someone perceived to have a mental issue, as in being loopy. Stampede Stigma, an Australian campaign, offers a mental health inclusive language guide It suggests some do’s and don’ts. “None of us should be defined by our difficulties or diagnoses, or by any single aspect of who we are – we are people first and foremost,” the guide reads.

DO:

Say “a person with a mental health condition”

Say “a person who has been diagnosed with”

Say “a person with a mental health issue” or “a person experiencing a

Kate McEvoy, executive director of the National Association of Medicaid Directors, said the sheer volume of millions of people being redetermined for eligibility has overwhelmed some state call centers trying to support enrollees.

She said states have tried many ways to communicate with enrollees, including through public outreach campaigns, text, email, and apps. “Until the moment your coverage is at stake, it’s hard to penetrate people’s busy lives,” she said.

The KFF survey, of 1,227 adults who had Medicaid coverage in early 2023 prior to the start of the unwinding on April 1, 2023, was conducted between Feb. 15, 2024, and March 11, 2024. The margin of sampling error was plus or minus 4 percentage points.

KFF Health News correspondent Daniel Chang contributed to this article.

or, or a sexual health provider can be really anxiety provoking and for some people it can be really, really overwhelming.”

According to the CDC, 21% of women began using an IUD as their preferred contraceptive method between 2015 and 2019, but the IUD insertion or removal process can be uncomfortable or even painful for some patients.

Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region and Southwest Missouri began offering routine sedation for patients seeking intrauterine device (IUD) insertion and other sexual and reproductive health services at the Fairview Heights health center on April 2.

“It is all our responsibility to ensure that the community knows that right now birth control is available, it is not an abortion medication. Birth control is pregnancy prevention and doesn’t interrupt an existing pregnancy, but that they are right to be worried about what the extremist legislators might be doing next to limit access to this important medical intervention,” said McNicholas.

mental health issue”

Say “lives with a mental health condition”

DON’T:

Say “they are mentally ill” or “they are not normal.” Don’t define a person by their mental health issue.

Use terms like “suffer” or “suffering.”

Say “X is mentally ill.”

Use insensitive and hurtful words like “bonkers,” “nutter,” “loopy,” “loony bin,” “deranged,” “insane,” “mad” or “mental.”

Instead, use terms like “schizophrenic,” “bipolar” and “OCD” to describe behaviors or traits.

Genoa Barrow is senior staff writer for the Sacramento Observer

Kathleen Holmes

Chima Ndumele

The St. Louis American’s award winning NIE program provides newspapers and resources to more than 8,000 teachers and students each week throughout the school year, at no charge.

Questions or comments? Contact Cathy Sewell csewell@stlamerican.com or 618-910-9551

Students Aariah Green, Na’kyah Jenkins, Khloii Jackson, and Mariah Harris, in Ms. Stovall’s third-grade class at Gateway MST Elementary School, are observing the phases of a partial solar eclipse.

SCIENCE CORNER CLASSROOM SPOTLIGHT SCIENCE STARS

Neurobiology is the study of the brain and nervous system of humans and animals. This study allows scientists to understand how the brain functions when it is healthy and how to cope when there are different disorders or injuries that affect brain function.

What is Neurobiology?

African-American Neurobiologist

Erich Jarvis

Learning Standards:

I can read nonfiction text for main idea and supporting detail. I can make text-to-self and textto-world connections.

MRI machines allow doctors to see the brain in action and to learn more about it. Scientists believe that the brain is not fully developed until age 25. Different areas of the brain develop at their own pace. For young teens, the frontal lobe of the brain that impacts decision making and impulse control is slowly developing. That’s why many adults exclaim, “What were you thinking?” when they are frustrated with teens. Because the brain develops until the age of 25, it is especially important for young people to avoid drugs and alcohol because it is easier for this age group to get addicted and substance abuse will have a very severe and devastating impact on permanent brain development.

SCIENCE INVESTIGATION

Background Information:

In this experiment, you will see how smell affects your taste buds.

Materials Needed:

• Small Cups

• Cotton Swabs or Q-tips

• Different Foods With Similar Textures (ex: ketchup, mustard, barbecue sauce, sweet and sour sauce, and maple syrup)

• Pen and Paper for Charting

• Partner for the Experiment

• Blindfold

Taste vs. Smell

food on the taster’s tongue with a cotton swab.

r The taster tries to identify which food they are tasting as well as whether it is salty, bitter, sweet or sour.

t The tester records the taster’s answers on the chart for each food they taste.

y When the taster has tried all the foods blindfolded, they will taste them each again but with their nose plugged as well. (Make sure you have them taste the foods in a different order.)

Erich Jarvis was born on May 6, 1965, in Harlem. Both of his parents were musicians. At an early age, Jarvis was interested in music, dance, and the arts. He attended the High School of Performing Arts. After graduation in 1983, he attended Hunter College. While working on his degree, Jarvis worked as a Minority Access to Research Careers (MARC) Fellow and studied bacteria while he earned his bachelor’s degree in mathematics and biology. From 1988-1995, he attended the Rockefeller University where he earned his PhD in molecular neurobiology and animal behavior. He specialized his research in the study of songbird vocalizations.

Once Jarvis earned his PhD, he stayed at Rockefeller University as a professor, and he lead the Science Outreach Program of New York, going to inner-city schools to teach them lab skills. His goal was to inspire the students to pursue education, develop critical thinking and problem solving skills, and to seek a STEM-related career. In 1998, Jarvis left Rockefeller and became a professor for the Department of Neurobiology at Duke University. He also worked for the Department of Cognitive Neuroscience and the Center for Bioinformatics and Computational Biology.

In 2005, Jarvis led a team of 28 neuroscientists who proposed a new classification system for the bird brain as they researched the similarities between the brain of a bird and the brain of a mammal. Three years later, he received the honor of becoming an Investigator for the Howard Hughes Medical Institute. He has published more than 50 journal articles and has been a contributor to numerous books.

Procedure:

q Draw a chart for your results. Write the name of each food you are testing in separate rows along the left side.

Draw two columns for each taster. Label each column with the taster’s name and “unplugged” and “plugged.”

w Make some predictions about which foods will be easier and harder to identify by smell. Will it be easier or harder to taste the foods with your nose plugged or unplugged?

e Blindfold the taster as the tester puts a little bit of one

MATH CONNECTION

u Once the taster has tried each food with his/ her nose plugged, switch who tastes and who tests and go through it all again. When you’ve both had a chance to taste, compare your results.

Learning Standards: I can follow directions to complete an experiment. I can analyze the conclusions of the experiment and make deductions.

Math in the Music!

Did you know that you can find math in music? Time signatures tell how many beats per measure. Each note has a different numerical value. Many songs involve patterns in the music or lyrics. In honor of Jarvis’ songbird research, today’s math review is musical.

z A whole note is worth 4 beats, a half note is worth 2 beats, a quarter note is worth one beat. If a measure has 4 beats, how many different combinations can you create with these notes? ________

x Janice practiced her clarinet for 20 minutes on Monday, 35 minutes Tuesday, 10 minutes Wednesday, and 60 minutes Thursday. What is the average number of minutes she practiced each night? ________

DID YOU KNOW?

Did you know there are 4,000 species of songbirds?

c In the fifth grade classroom, each student plays an instrument. 6 students play the saxophone, 8 students play the trumpet, 3 students play the drums, and 5 students play guitar. How many students are there total? ________ Write a fraction that represents the number of guitar players. ________

v A popular R&B song is 3 minutes and 50 seconds long. If the chorus is 20 seconds and is played 3 times in the song, how many total minutes of the song are devoted to the chorus? ________ Write a fraction that represents the portion of the song that is the chorus? ________

Learning Standards: I can use addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division to solve a problem.

Songbirds have a long windpipe to create the vocal sounds.

Bird “songs” have a variety of sounds—owls hoot, whippoorwill and cuckoo repeat their phrases, bobtail quail whistle, and the African tinkerbird makes a sound like hammering on metal. All of these vocal sounds are considered songs.

Jarvis’ success in his field as a pioneer in the study of songbird neurobiology has won him many awards, including the National Science Foundation Alan T. Waterman Award, the Dominion Award, Strong Men and Women of Excellence, African American Leaders and the National Institute for the Humanities’ Director’s Pioneer Award. Also, Jarvis has served as the director of the Neuroscience Scholars Program for The Society of Neuroscience, he is a member of Duke University’s Council on Black Affairs and a founding member of the Black Collective at Duke University. Jarvis followed his passion for music and learning and it has led him to a successful career.

Learning Standards: I can read a biography about a person who has made contributions in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

MAP CORNER

Enjoy these activities that help you get to know your St. Louis American newspaper.

Activity One

Plural Words: Find 10 plural words in the newspaper and cut out. Glue them to a piece of the root word next to each (or circle the word in the newspaper and then write it on a piece of paper).

Activity Two —

Sports Team Travels: Keep track of a sports team’s travels. Find distances between cities on a map. Measure the distance between each city they visit. How many total miles did they travel?

Learning Standards: I can use the newspaper to locate information. I can identify root words. I can read a map and use addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division to solve a problem.

Photo by Ms. Stovall

Sweet &Sour

LSEM helps entrepreneurs pursue dreams

n “Even if we can’t help people with what they need. We try to get them the proper services they need.”

– Marlene Elliott

By Aswad Walker The Houston Defender

St. Louis University and the University of Missouri Science and Technology in Rolla were recently selected as one of 30 “Top Picks for the Very Best Master’s and Graduate Certificate Programs in Artificial Intelligence” by AI Degree Guide.

The schools are listed alongside some of the nation’s top tech and/or research universities, including Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Rochester Institute of Technology, Duke University, Carnegie Mellon University, and Johns Hopkins University.

That said, what does an Artificial Intelligence (AI) degree offer Black students? And what are the challenges posed by AI that need to be addressed for AI to serve as a positive tool for Black people seeking an AI degree and the Black public who use and are impacted by AI? Is AI anti-Black?

According to Abdul Alkalimat, professor emeritus, Department of African American Studies and School of See AI, B2

tomers a sophisticated and personalized experience to create their signature fragrance. It provides high-quality fragrance oils, expert guidance from a Master Fragrance Designer, and a customized process to create the perfect blend.

“We emphasize providing a luxurious and memorable journey for every customer. If a desired time is unavailable on the day you choose, join our waitlist and we will work to accommodate you,” said Farr.

LSEM has seen a surge of interest in people wanting to start their businesses. The CED Microenterprise Program prosPonsored Content

Gwen Hamer receives ANCOR service award

Gwen Hamer, a direct support professional/parent educator at St. Louis, has been named recipient of the 2024 Missouri DSP of the Year Award by ANCOR, a leading voice in Washington for community-based disability services providers.

Gwen Hamer

Recognition honors professionals exemplifying workforce that empowers community inclusion for people with intellectual, developmental disabilities

Hamer joined 54 other honorees who were honored April 10, 2024, during the ANCOR Connect ’24 annual conference in Santa Fe, N.M.

Marlene Elliott in the office of Legal Services of Eastern Missouri at Peabody Plaza. Elliott is the LSEM managing attorney of the CED Microenterprise Program.

Twinette Johnson

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American

Photo August de Richelieu / Pexels

AI

Continued from B1

Information Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, those challenges are many in academia.

“AI reflects the way the world is structured, so it carries all the bad stuff with it – racism, patriarchy and classism,” said Alkalimat.

“How should Black Studies deal with it? It is in all our classrooms right now. Our students are using ChatGPT. Do we fight it, and if so, how? Do we prepare our students to use it, and if so, how?”

New York University data journalist Meredith Broussard labels bias in AI the “civil rights issue of our time.”

Why?

“Because, in modern society, artificial-intelligence systems increasingly govern and surveil people’s lives—algorithms now routinely make decisions about health care, housing, insurance, education, employment, banking, and policing— yet racial and gender biases are deeply embedded in many of these AI systems,” Broussard explained.

In fact, a growing body of research, including that done by Latanya Sweeney, computer scientist and

Elliott

Continued from B1

vides the necessary support for them to flourish. Farr got acquainted with Elliot through The Better Family Life Business program, she came to speak with a class about the Attorney Services.

Harvard professor in the practice of government and technology, has shown that AI facial recognition programs do not accurately see dark-skinned faces.

Columbia University professor Eli Joseph suggested AI perpetuates colorism, sharing that even when using filters to darken his images, his AI pictures come out lighter. As a result, a growing body of scientists, scholars and members of the public are concluding that AI is

Elliot joined the program in 2022 when she became manager she describes the work she does to help others as “really great”. The attorney wears multiple hats, she assists in community outreach, fundraising for the microenterprise program, and lastly she’s a connector. “Even if we can’t help people with what they need. We try to get them the proper

“anti-Black.”

Black students pursuing AI degrees

These negatives, however, are viewed by some as even stronger reasons for Black people to study and pursue AI degrees –to confront and dismantle any existing biases. The Hurston/Wright Foundation recently hosted a virtual panel discussion titled “Securing the Black Voice in the

services they need,” said Elliot.

Many low-income entrepreneurs start with a small pot of money.

According to Elliot, their financial hardships can put a strain on them if they can’t pay rent, their mortgage, utilities, and other expenses. “ It’s not easy to get access to a business loan or assistance to help start up a business,” she

World of AI.” This was a gathering of writers and creatives, discussing ways to make sure the “Black voice” remains strong in the AI space.

And panelists agreed that more Black people need to gain all the AI expertise, training and credentials available.

According to the Georgetown University Center for Security and Emerging Technology, AI-related degree awards grew even faster than

said.

“Marlene has helped my business in many ways, she is currently helping me get my trademark. She had read over past business leases and created contracts for me,” said Farr.

STEM degrees as a general category at bachelor’s master’s and PhD levels. Government data and other sources on the higher education market describe the growth of AI degree conferrals as “dramatic,” increasing 120% since 2011 at both bachelor’s and master’s levels.

The University of Houston-Downtown’s Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (MSAI) program, which is among the 30, began

in fall 2022, and offers a local space for Black students open to mastering AI.

“Our MSAI is one of six graduate-level AI programs offered in Texas,” said Dr. Hong Lin, MSAI director and professor of Computer Science and Engineering Technology.

“Our program came just at the right time when the entire world saw a growing demand for AI professionals.”

UHD’s MSAI program trains graduate students in specific skills for AI applications in the industrial, business, and educational sectors. Demand for AI-skilled employees is especially increasing in such areas as machine learning, game theory, and cybersecurity.

“Our program is poised to give students an advantage in AI careers by focusing on the skills that companies are seeking, including speech recognition, sign language recognition, and prediction in machine learning,” said Lin.

“Our program trains students to apply AI algorithms and models to solve real-world problems, setting them up for success in their chosen career paths.”

For more information about UHD’s Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence, visit https:// www.uhd.edu/academics/ sciences/msai.aspx

“ We try to level the playing field,” said Elliot. She added, “Information can be free, and I’m getting that information to the people who don’t have access to it.”

Elliot has partnered with the Small Business Development Corporation,

“I love seeing her business grow,” said Elliot. Some entrepreneurs who joined the program needed assistance in legal advice, getting their products patented, or just networking and being connected to the right people.

Urban League, Better Family Life, Veteran Business Resource Center, and St. Louis County Library. These partnerships help entrepreneurs in getting small business loans and mentoring.

For more information, visit www.lsem.org

Ashley Winters is a Report for America reporter for the St. Louis American.

n “Our team is super dynamic.”

– St. Louis Battlehawks receiver Hakeem Butler following a 31-24 UFL win over San Antonio

InSIdE SportS

By Earl Austin Jr.

St. Louis American Boys ‘Fab Five’ All-Star Team

The members of the 2024 St. Louis American “Fab Five” All-Star Basketball First Team are a talented group of players that have won a lot of games and championships.

The duo of Nassir Binion and Nicholas Randall of Vashon paced the Wolverines to another Class 4 state championship. Point guard Clayton Jackson of Cardinal Ritter has spearheaded the Lions to back to back state championships. Junior point guard Zyree Collins of St. Mary’s led the Dragons to an impressive turnaround season while sophomore Tristan Reed of John Burroughs led the Bombers to their first Final Four appearance since the 1950’s.

Here is a capsule look at the members of the 2024 St. Louis American “Fab Five” All-Star First Team.

Zyree Collins (St. Mary’s): The 6’0” junior point guard is the St. Louis American Player of the Year. He had a tremendous season in leading the Dragons to a 25-4 record in what was a big turnaround year for the Dragons. Collins led the St. Louis metropolitan area in scoring at 31.5 points a game. He also averaged 6.7 rebounds, 4.4

assists and 3.4 steals while shooting 41 percent from 3-point range. He made 81 triples during the season.

Nassir Binion (Vashon): The 6’4” senior forward helped lead the Wolverines to the Class 4 state championship. He is a high-energy player with one of the best motors in the state. As a senior, he averaged 13 points and six rebounds a game while shooting 60 percent from the field. He was at his best during the Wolverines postseason run, he averaged 20 points a game, including a high of 25 points in the Wolverines victory over John Burroughs in the championship game.

Clayton Jackson (Cardinal Ritter): A 6’2” senior point guard who was the floor leader for the Lions, who won back to back state championships, including the Class 6 state title this year. As a senior, he averaged 10.5 points, 3.3 rebounds, 4.1 assists and 2.0 steals a game. He is carrying on a proud family tradition as the son of former University City and Southern Illinois women’s star player Petra Jackson. Jackson has already com-

mitted to Lindenwood University in St. Charles.

Tristan Reed (John Burroughs): The 6’8” sophomore power forward is one of the top young prospects in the state. He was a force in the paint with his scoring, rebounding and shot blocking. He led the Bombers to a second-place

finish in the Class 4 state tournament, which was the school’s first Final Four appearance in more than 60 years. He averaged 16.5 points, 9.4 rebounds and 2.8 blocks while shooting 65 percent from the field in leading the Bombers to a 27-5 record.

Nicholas Randall (Vashon): The 6’8” junior forward was the anchor inside for the Wolverines, who won their fourth consecutive Class 4 state

SportS EyE

With Alvin A. Reid

championship. The young man they call “Butta” is a skilled young player who can score, rebound and protect the rim with his shot blocking. He averaged 10.5 points and 7.6 rebounds while shooting 57 percent from the field. He also led the team with 40 blocked shots. He has received scholarship offers from numerous high

level Division I collegiate programs.

St. Louis American “Fab Five” Boys All-Star Basketball Teams

SECOND TEAM

Collin Perry 6’2”

Chaminade (Jr.)

Iziah Purvey 6’5”

Webster Groves (Sr.)

Trey Williams 6’2”

Vashon (Jr.)

Jamorie Wysinger 6’1” Collinsville (Sr.)

Nashawn Davis 6’5” Cardinal Ritter (Sr.)

THIRD TEAM

Scottie Adkinson 6’3”

Webster Groves (Fr.)

Dwayne Foley 6’3”

Ladue (Sr.)

Jaeden Rush 6’1”

O’Fallon (Sr.)

Eric Shaw 6’3”

Maplewood (Sr.)

Lee Williams 6’5”

University City (Sr.)

FOURTH TEAM

Antione Franklin 6’4”

Miller Career Academy (Sr.)

Symon Ghai 7’3”

Vianney (Soph.)

Travis Green III 6’2”

Hazelwood Central (Sr.)

Bryce Spiller 6’5”

Lutheran North (Sr.)

Christian Williams 5’11” Vashon (Jr.)

PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Zyree Collins (St. Mary’s)

FRESHMAN OF THE YEAR: Scottie Adkinson (Webster Groves)

Edwards an inspiration as USA hockey star

The best game I watched last week wasn’t a contest from the NBA, Major League Baseball or the United Football League. It was the IIHF Women’s World Hockey Championship gold medal game which featured one of the best rivalries in sports – USA vs. Canada.

Canada avenged last year’s championship game loss, near Toronto, to the American women with a thrilling 6-5 overtime win. The USA took a ‘too many players on the ice’ penalty which led to the power play goal that clinched the title for Canada.

the USA and was named the tournament’s most valuable player. Edwards became just the second player to earn MVP honors at both the U18 and senior Women’s World Championships. She also was named to the Media All-Star Team.

The 20-yearold sophomore, who stars for the Wisconsin Badgers, became the third-youngest U.S. woman to record a world championship hat trick in America’s 5-0 semifinal victory over Finland.

The tournament also officially introduced Laila Edwards as a force in international women’s hockey. Edwards, who is Black, was cheered on throughout the two-week tournament in Utica, New York by family members, friends and fans. The 6’1” Edwards hails from Cleveland Heights, Ohio and is the first Black hockey player to make either the men’s or women’s US national team roster.

A forward, Edwards recorded six goals in the seven games played by

That set the stage for the showdown with Canada. After falling behind 1-0, Edwards tallied the tying goal which brought a roar from the largely American crowd. Edwards also recorded an assist in the game and finished tied for the tournament lead in points with eight.

Before the title game, Edwards told reporters “I think (it’s) gonna be amazing.” “It doesn’t feel real. This is something I’ve grown up dreaming about.”

She and her sister Chayla, a graduate student who also plays for

Wisconsin, participated in figure skating as children. Both moved to hockey with the younger Edwards now becoming an international star.

When the day comes when Edwards no longer plays hockey, she could become a sports or news columnist.

In a brilliant essay on the University of Wisconsin website entitled “Finding my place on ice; and history,” Edwards shares her story of being a young Black woman finding her way in the world of

hockey.

Her writing is inspirational and moving. “When my dad signed me up for figure skating, it was so I would eventually be ready for hockey,” she wrote.

“When I left my hometown at age 13 to attend a boarding school in Rochester, New York, separating me from friends, family and everything else I had known up to that moment, it was for hockey.” She states in the essay, “I remember trying to find

ways to blend in, despite always knowing I stood out.”

“I often wonder if having an existing blueprint to follow, would have altered my path.

But when I reflect on conversations with parents about how I’ve inspired their child to play hockey, it reminds me of the path I get to create for others. “For me, it’s always been hockey. But now I understand it’s never just been hockey.”

The Reid Roundup

Jackie Robinson Day was celebrated throughout MLB on Monday, April 15. The St. Louis Cardinals started three Black players –outfielders Victor Scott II Jordan Walker and shortstop Masyn Winn Jayson Tatum and the Boston Celtics are betting favorites to win the NBA title. Tatum, who averaged 26.9 points, 8.1 rebounds and 4.9 assists per game, is second to Denver’s Nikola Jokic as favorite to win NBA Finals MVP honors… Bradley Beal and the Phoenix Suns will open a Western Conference firstround series at Minnesota on Saturday, April 20. Beal, who played in just 53 games because of various injuries, averaged a respectable 18.2 points, 4.4 rebounds and five assists per game…Caitlin Clark was selected by Indiana with the first pick of the WNBA Draft on Monday. It was the mostwatched WNBA draft in the league’s history… Toriano Porter of the Kansas City Star wrote he thinks the Chiefs should part ways with receiver Rashee Rice, who left the scene following an illegal street racing crash that left several people injured.

Earl Austin Jr.

Alvin A. Reid

Laila Edwards was named MVP of the IIHF Women’s World Hockey Championship tournament.

Photo courtesy of USA Hockey

Zyree Collins of St. Mary’s is the 2024 St. Louis American Player of the Year.

United Way leading statewide $5 million grant

United Way of Greater St. Louis (UWGSL) is leading a statewide $5 million grant in partnership with the Missouri Association of United Ways (MAUW) to help support the immediate basic needs of families in crisis.

This is the first time UWGSL has received a state allocation of $5 million to distribute across Missouri in partnership with MAUW.

“By leading this partnership, the impact investing strategy will expand existing programs and infrastructure statewide to improve the trajectory of Missouri families and their communities,” said Michelle Tucker, United Way president and CEO.

“This one-time grant will support the immediate basic needs of families in crisis. Hundreds of thousands of people throughout Missouri live in poverty, and this funding distribution will be used to empower them by helping with stable housing and food, jobs and financial mobility, and more. Tucker thanked state Sen. Brian Williams for his assistance in securing this funding.

“This financial investment in UWGSL reflects the trust in our organization to be good stewards of the funding we’ve received and the positive impact it will have on Missourians,” she said.

The St. Louis Regional Financial Empowerment Coalition and United Way of Greater St. Louis are partnering to offer free events and classes on financial education and money management throughout April.

Free financial empowerment events continue in April

State Sen. Brian Williams was instrumental in the United Way of Greater St. Louis receiving a $5 million grant from the state. From left are Todd Jordan, United Way of Kansas City vice president of community impact and 211 executive director; Precious Stargell Cushman, United Way of Kansas City chief impact officer; Regina GreerUnited Way of Greater St. Louis chief impact officer; Sen. Williams; Michelle D. Tucker-United Way of Greater St. Louis president and CEO; and Heather Dawson, United Way of Greater St. Louis chief administrative Officer.

Upcoming events include: Money Smart Month is a community education program sponsored by the St. Louis Regional Financial Empowerment Coalition in partnership with UWGSL, area libraries, community organizations and financial institutions. “These events are great because they are free to the public and you’ll get information from industry experts including real estate agents, mortgage lenders and banking partners who are there to provide insight and guidance with all things related to money,” said Nakischa Joseph, Money Smart Month co-chair. “Whether it’s purchasing a home, opening a checking account or exploring other banking opportunities, you’ll get first-hand access to these experts who are able to guide you towards a better understanding of what money is and how it really works.”

Saint Louis Public Schools has unveiled a Verizon Innovative Learning Lab at the Academy of Entrepreneurship Studies Middle School at L’Overture (AESM).

The partners are also

Verizon and SLPS partner to provide new learning labs

celebrating an additional lab coming to Pamoja Preparatory Academy. The labs are made possible by Verizon, through a partnership with Heart of America and the J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute at

Arizona State University.

The labs give students and teachers access to emerging technology such as augmented and virtual reality, 3D printing and artificial intelligence (AI). The new labs join those locations at

Long Middle School and Yeatman-Liddell Middle School. Verizon collaborates with its nonprofit partners to provide free technology, free internet access and firsthand learning experiences to

help students in under-resourced communities receive the education they deserve to help prepare them for today’s digital economy.

“So many students across the nation lack the access to technology and

resources they need to be successful in today’s digital world,” said Mario Acosta-Velez, Verizon East Region senior director of local engagement, corporate social responsibility and public policy.

Photo courtesy of the United Way

Rap stars at NASCAR

Luda, T-Pain among headliners for Confluence Music Festival at WWT Raceway

St. Louis American Staff

T-Pain has been added to the expansive lineup of headlining acts for the third annual Confluence Music Festival when the event returns to the St. Louis area June 1-2 as part of NASCAR Cup Series Weekend at World Wide Technology Raceway.

Confluence Music Festival announced on Tuesday (April 16) that the chart-topping, Grammy Award-winning singer-rapper would join fellow Grammy Award-winner Ludacris as a part of the headlining artists.

More than 30 national and local acts –including Adam Wainwright, Big & Rich with Gretchen Wilson & Cowboy Troy, Brittney Spencer and Tim Dugger – are scheduled to perform.

“It’s always our mission to present a lineup that offers something for everyone to enjoy, and this year’s Confluence Music Festival really delivers,” said Kwofe Coleman, executive producer for the festival. Coleman also is president and CEO of The Muny, which assists with the production of Confluence Music Festival. “We’re grateful especially to WWT and the Steward family, and to the many individuals and organizations that have committed their support to make this community event a reality for the third year.”

The Confluence Music Festival is a showcase of innovation, talent and live entertainment. The festival attracts fans from across the country to help welcome NASCAR, the pre mier form of motorsports in the Unit ed States, to WWTR. Live per formances on the Enterprise Main Stage, Fan Zone Stage, Coors Light Stage and Jim Beam Stage take place before, during and after the daily racing events.

Ticket holders for the NASCAR Cup Series

Enjoy Illinois 300 will have access to Confluence Music Fes tival concerts, plus interactive entertainment displays, a STEM education showcase, car displays

SLSO brings sounds of South America to the Pulitzer

By Chris King

For the St. Louis American Live at the Pulitzer – the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra series that turned 20 this season – challenges its curator to program new chamber works around the art on exhibition at the Pulitzer Arts Foundation. For the April 9 concert that closed the 20th season, the art on display was Delcy Morelos: Interwoven, which opened a month before. For this concert, there was no getting around the visual art – literally.

To get to the music, you had to skirt a labyrinth made from more than three tons of soil sourced from St. Louis that Morelos created for the exhibit.

There was no getting around Morelos’ work for the curator, either. “I was so inspired by the work in this exhibition,” said Christopher Stark, the St. Louis-based composer on faculty at Washington University who curated his first Live at the Pulitzer series this season. Morelos works with basic materials and makes bold statements – turning a museum gallery into a labyrinth of mud, sea-

and live interviews with St. Louis-area sports legends. Nearly 100,000 fans attended the festival and race in 2023. Neither of the headlining hip hop heavyweights is a stranger to St. Louis. T-Pain was the headlining talent for St. Louis’ own Nelly for the star-studded tenth anniversary celebration for his Black and White Ball.

And although he was raised in the ATL (Atlanta), Ludacris has a special connection to the NASCAR Cup Series Enjoy Illinois 300 thanks to the little known fact that he was actually born in Champaign, Illinois. Luda also has ties to the hip hop community of St. Louis. His Disturbing tha Peace record label signed an emerging rap star by the name of Chingy back in 2003. DTP released Chingy’s debut

See NASCAR, C8

The global art of sport

St. Louisan

has vision of healing the world through Ra | Naissance

By Lacretia Wimbley St. Louis Public Radio

St. Louisan Genera Moore considers herself a futurist. A jack of many trades with an entrepreneurial spirit, she founded a global art brand called Ra | Naissance in 2021 while overseas, and she’s traveled the world hosting art exhibits across the U.S., as well as in Ghana and Dubai.

Now she’s planning to open a new exhibit in St. Louis as part of a fresh art tour centered on soccer legends that she hopes will bring healing to the St. Louis region. The exhibit will also showcase art in honor of St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones, she said.

soned with cinnamon and clove, strikes me as bold. The artist is Colombian and continues to make Bogotá her home. Stark responded to her striking work by curating a program of earthy, bold music, all by living composers, drawn from all over the Americas.

Stark opened the show in native North America (a perspective from which, as Leslie Marmon Silko showed us in Almanac of the Dead, our current national boundaries are the provisional results of wars, crimes and war crimes). Raven Chacon, a Diné man born in 1977, was

the first native composer to win a Pulitzer Prize for Music in 2022 for Voiceless Mass. Stark programmed an earlier work by Chacon, The Journey of the Horizontal People; it’s nice, at a classical concert, when a piece composed in 2015 qualifies as “earlier work.”

Stark introduced Chacon’s piece by saying it “challenges the notion of what music is or can be,” which serves as an apt prelude for hearing any new music.

n “It’s art that highlights the soccer renaissance, which is the No. 1 sport in the world and is rapidly expanding in the United States ”

- Genera Moore

She’s hoping to build connections and curate an art exhibition now, two years ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Six cup games will be hosted in Kansas City, including five group stage matches and a quarterfinal. “Ra | Naissance is showing the world how to heal through the arts,” Moore said. “‘Ra’ is what they would call the sun in Egypt. So, if you look at the sun, what does the sun do? It heals, it provides, it has this creative life force energy that exists in all things. And this is what this whole thing is about when it comes to a [soccer] renaissance. We’re honoring legends. We’re celebrating honoring legends and healing through the arts.” Moore, 41, grew up in south St. Louis and graduated from Ladue High School in 2000. After leaving high school, she studied computer science at St. Louis Community College–Forest Park but left and went to Clark Atlanta University in 2001.

She spent two years there before transferring to Georgia State University, where she ultimately got her bachelor’s degree in business management. She’s the second youngest of her six siblings and the daughter of Cornelius Moore, who pastors the Fountain Temple Church of God in Christ near Fountain Park. Moore said she’s passionate about the World Cup and the economic gains that can be obtained through it, by way of art. She completed an art tour in Ghana in 2022 during the FIFA World Cup called Ghana Feels Good.” Through the tour, her art company Ra | Naissance honored world football greats, including Brazil

Photo by Lawrence Bryant Music star T-Pain was a main attraction at the 10th anniversary celebration of Nelly’s Black and White Ball at The Four Seasons in

Photo courtesy of The Pulitzer Arts Foundation

Columbian artist Delcy Morelos works with basic materials and makes bold statements – turning a museum gallery into a labyrinth of mud, seasoned with cinnamon and clove.

Photo by Eric Lee/St. Louis Public Radio Genera Moore, founder of Ra | Naissance, poses for a portrait on Thursday in Tower Grove Park. Moore is working to curate a new exhibit showcasing art of soccer legends in St. Louis ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be partly hosted in the United States.

Ludacris

CONCERTS AND LIVE SHOWS

Omarion:Vbz on Vbz Tour

4/20/2024 8:00pm Concert Stifel Theatre 1400 Market Street St. Louis, MO

$59.50 - $99.50

Black KrayWhen Doves Kry Tour

4/19/2024 8:00pm

4/20/2024 8:00pm

Pop’s Concert Venue 300 Monsanto Ave Sauget, IL

$20.00 - $75.00

Ryan and Ryan Piano Duo 4/22/2024 7:30pm

The Intercultural Music Initiative (IMI) will present the Ryan and Ryan Piano Duo for the final concert in its 2023-2024 season.

Father-son piano duo that blends classic and contemporary music into an enthralling concert experience combining a blend of old and new schools. Parkway Baptist Church 12465 Olive Rd. St. Louis, MO

$5.00 - $25.00

JJ Grey & Mofro: Olustee Tour With Support From Cedric Burnside

4/20/2024 7:30pm

Chesterfield Amphitheater 631 Veteran’s Place Dr Chesterfield, MO $220.00

The Jazz Story

4/23/2024 10:30am

Sheldon Concert Hall and Art Galleries 3648 Washington Blvd St. Louis, MO

Free

Rickey Smiley Live!

STL Sites & Sounds

4/19/2024 7:00pm

The Factory 17105 North Outer 40 Road St. Louis, MO

$35.00 - $85.00

Beethoven’s Second Piano Concerto

4/20/2024 7:30pm

Marie-Ange Nguci, “one the most promising talents of her generation,” makes her SLSO debut with Beethoven’s Second Piano Concerto.

Blanche M. Touhill Performing Arts Center One University Blvd St. Louis, MO

BoyWithUke - Lucid Dreams Tour 4/20/2024 8:00pm Concert

The Pageant 6161 Delmar Blvd St. Louis, MO $29.50

FAIRS AND FESTIVALS

ThurtenE Carnival

4/19/2024 4:00pm 4/21/2024 11:00am

ThurtenE Carnival is the nation’s oldest and largest student-run carnival held at Washington University every spring. Washington University in St. Louis 1 Brookings Dr St. Louis, MO Free

Tower Grove Park Beer and Cocktail Garden 4/19/2024 4:00pm

Powered by St. Louis Barkeep and Schlafly, come join us on Fridays from April - October in Pond Loop near the Ruins for drinks and entertainment.

Tower Grove Park 4257 Northeast Drive

St. Louis, MO

Virginia Avenue Spring Fling Block Party 4/20/2024 12:00pm Pocket Park at Ave. and Liberty St St. Louis, MO

NIGHTLIFE

The Anita Baker Experience 4/21/2024 5:00pm

The Anita Baker Experience Backstreet Jazz & Blues Club 614 Westport Plaza Drive St. Louis, MO $25.00 - $45.00

FAIRS AND FESTIVALS

Office of Violence Prevention (OVP) Kickback

April 20, 2024 4/20/2024 2:00pm

Fairground Park 3715 Natural Bridge Ave St. Louis, MO

Free

The Office of Violence Prevention (OVP) Kickback 4/20/2024 2:00pm

Park 3715 Natural Bridge Ave St. Louis, MO

Trivia Night honoring National Crime Victims Rights Week 4/20/2024 6:00pm Crime Victim Center for our 20th Annual Trivia Night to honor National Crime Victim Rights Week 2024. John F. Kennedy Community Center 315 Howdershell RD. Florissant, MO $250.00 - $300.00

ART ACTIVITIES, EXHIBITS AND MUSEUMS

Fluid Perspectives: Pack Dance Performance (at CAM)*

4/18/2024 7:30pm-8:30pm

This two-part dance performance explores the synchronicity between two exhibitions: Matisse and the Sea at the Saint Louis Art Museum (SLAM) and Paul Chan: Breathers at Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis (CAM) 3750 Washington Blvd St. Louis, MO (one of two performances. The other takes place at St. Louis Art Museum on April 26) For more information and to reserve a free ticket, visit SLAM’s website

ASL Tour 4/19/2024 2:00pm

Join Angela Botz, a Deaf docent, for a tour of CAM’s exhibitions in American Sign Language (ASL). This program is offered in partnership with DEAF Inc. as part of the Deaf Visual Arts Festival. Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis 3750 Washington Blvd St. Louis, MO

Kahlil Robert Irving: Archaeology of the Present 4/19/2024 11:00am 4/20/2024 11:00am 4/21/2024 11:00am 4/22/2024 11:00am

St. Louis–based artist Kahlil Robert Irving creates assemblages made of layered images and sculptures composed of replicas of everyday objects. Mainly working in ceramics, Irving critically engages with the history of the medium and challenges constructs around identity and culture in the Western world.

Kemper Art Museum

1 Brookings Dr

St. Louis, MO Free

Office of Violence Prevention (OVP) Kickback takes place on April 20, 2024 this month at Fairground Park, 3715 Natural Bridge Ave at 2:00 pm.

legend Edson Arantes do Nascimento, popularly known as Pelé.

“It’s art that highlights the soccer renaissance, which is the No. 1 sport in the world and is rapidly expanding in the United States,” Moore said. “This year [2024] would be a perfect opportunity for St. Louis to have a pre-World Cup marketing strategy to attract tourists and international media exposure.”

Moore focuses on heart-centered communication, she said, which simply means she is following her heart.

“Following your heart, it will show you why going after your creativity and passions within you can unlock a world you didn’t know existed,”

SLSO

Continued from C1

Moore said. “But you can’t give up.” But art isn’t Moore’s only pursuit. As a matter of fact, she didn’t get into curating art exhibits until 2021.

In 2009, she organized bookings for Janet Jackson to appear at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. “For them, a lot of people didn’t have contacts, and I kept my integrity and I knew how important it was to keep my word while working with people,” Moore said. “That’s how I was able to grow. It was about building relationships, that’s how it worked.”

She left after organizing that event and eventually moved to Dubai in the United Arab Emirates in 2011. Then she started booking different artists and entertainers at various events and helping other event organizers plan events. She worked as a

live event manager with the government in Dubai from 2013 to 2014. But soon after, she felt she hit her ceiling with planning events and left Dubai in late 2015 to pur-

started going to networking events and connecting with people involved in the automotive industry, which included shipping in oil and auto parts to and from Nigeria.

n “Following your heart, it will show you why going after your creativity and passions within you can unlock a world you didn’t know existed. But you can’t give up.”

- Genera Moore

sue the automotive business, leading her to create an auto parts company called MotorParts Nation. “Dubai is a big international trading hub,” Moore said. “A lot of people that travel from other countries would buy auto parts and trade, which is a huge source of revenue for Dubai.” She said she

In February 2018, Moore joined the National Black MBA and went on a trip to Ghana as a member. While there, she began sharing and selling her auto part samples while networking. She eventually partnered with Eco Bank to help mechanics get approved for loans to be able to learn financial

literacy, as well as helping them set up retirement accounts. She also helped them get loans for diagnostic equipment and tools that mechanics need to fix vehicles.

She said her goal was to transform the auto industry. Moore made the move to Ghana official in 2020, she said.

With networking at the core of what she does, Moore eventually shifted gears again. While in Ghana, she was inspired to begin curating art by one of her colleagues who hosted a networking event and showcased work by a local artist, she said.

“I’ve organized concerts and other social and art events in Atlanta; Washington, D.C.; and Beverly Hills, but I’ve never done one here,” she said. “It’s time.

“Art exhibits can boost any city’s economy. If art built the world, then you best believe art is going to help build soccer, by honoring legends.”

“I saw how amazing the art was, and began discussing ideas with him about how to showcase the work.” Within two weeks, they had curated an art event at a creative space in Accra, Ghana, called the Mix Design Hub — a multifunctional space that also hosts a restaurant. She came back to St. Louis in May 2023 and is now looking forward to curating a soccer-focused art exhibition in her hometown.

This article has been edited for brevity, and was published with permission from https://www.stlpr. org/ as part of a content sharing partnership between The St. Louis American and St. Louis Public Radio.

Chacon compelled the musicians – a nimble string quartet comprised of Erin Schreiber and Shawn Weil on violin, Shannon Williams on viola and Bjorn Ranheim on cello – to play around with the textures of their strings and bow hairs to make what sounded more often like sound effects than conventional music. I heard a glass harmonica – not easily conjured on strings! – the ascending roars of sirens, and the sounds of music failing. This was not the sound of musicians failing, but rather the sound of musicians expertly performing the sounds of music failing. “No instruments were harmed in that performance,” Stark quipped when the musicians fell silent. Stark introduced the next piece, Mariel by the Argentine composer Osvaldo Golijov, by referencing the aromatic spices embedded in Morelos’ sculptures, which perfumed the performance space. Stark said he wanted to “fill the museum with these sounds” the way the sculptures filled it with smells, and he cited the way that sound, like smell, “unlocks memories.” For the composer, they were memories of a departed friend, Mariel Stubrin. “I attempted to capture that short instant before grief, in which one learns of the sudden death of a friend who was full of life: a single moment frozen forever in one’s memory,” Golijov wrote. Golijov composed his memorial portrait as a duet between marimba (Alan Stewart) and cello (Ranheim). I was struck by the deft variations in rhythm versus melody between the two instruments: the marimba held down a repeating pattern while the cello erupted in plaintive melody, then the cello played a droning pattern while the marimba sang lead. I also enjoyed the unusually clear view of an SLSO percussionist performing – these guys are usually rushing around between their various, hulking instruments at the far back of the concert stage.

In Molly Herron’s Three Sarabandes, the music started to move out of the head and into the body. Stark explained that the sarabande was first a

dance form in Panama – so raucous that it was once banned in Spain. By the end of the third movement, Williams was dancing with her viola, though Herron thought her way to dance through that challenging “what music is or can be” thing. As the musicians plucked their strings in strange ways and slapped them with their bows and played on their instruments’ bridges (which sounded like rushing surf and wind), it occurred to me that masterful musicians are much better at making disturbed sounds than an untutored person messing around on an instrument. There is an art to making noise – or, at least, these musical noises.

Melody and dance flourished with less inhibition from new-musical motives in Clarice

Assad’s Canções da America (2021), which closed this inventive and exciting program. Stark’s transAmerican vision came full circle here. While Golijov, from the birthplace of tango, remembered his friend with the Brazilian music Mariel loved, Assad, a Brazilian, busted out a tango in the middle of her celebration of Latin song. After a night of technical finesse and what seemed at times to be a strategic resistance to playing a fully voiced note, Assad warmed the Pulitzer with dynamic melodic interplay – she took these stellar players on four melodic adventures with occasional points of contact and crashes to a close. Schreiber and Williams danced with their instruments in their seats. I learned the hard way that

you can’t really dance in your seat if it’s made out of concrete like the steps at the Pulitzer where I was sitting to watch this show. So, I got up and walked around Morelos’ earthen labyrinth. I let the music permeate me as I breathed in the spices Morelos had mixed with St. Louis soil. I thought of something Stark had said: “Sound waves exist forever; they just keep floating further away.” I liked the idea –the fact – of being there, then, so close to those sounds, then, so close to that art, there, so close to that orphaned earth, even as it all was dissolving and going away.

Delcy Morelos: Interwoven, closes August 4. Visit https://pulitzerarts. org.

Religion

Black pastors carry a heavy load in service to community health issues

Some face mental health issues

By Eric M. Brown Healing From Within Blog

The disproportionate amount of deaths in the Black community, combined with the viral videos of the killing of Black bodies during 2020, placed a tremendous emotional burden on Black persons who have made it their life goal to care for the well-being of the Black community.

This has been and continues to be true for leaders within the Black church. Many Black persons report their preference for sharing their emotional pain with a religious leader over going to a mental health professional when suffering from mental illness (Adofoli & Ullman, 2014; Hays 2015).

may result in not only burnout but secondary traumatic stress (Roggenbaum).

Which leaders are most vulnerable?

By Eric M. Brown

As a result of justifiably high levels of medical mistrust in the Black community, Black pastors have long been the first responders to Black mental illness. One study revealed that close to two-thirds of Black pastors were engaged in pastoral counseling with persons suffering from suicidal thoughts (Payne, 2014). Given that most Black clergy and other ministry leaders (e.g. deacons, bible school teachers, choir directors, etc. ) have jobs outside of the church, caring for persons who may be struggling with mental illness can be exhausting and

In a study of 124 Black clergy and ministry leaders, we found that over half of these African American church leaders endorsed experiencing moderate to severe levels of secondary traumatic stress. We also discovered that 28% of these leaders endorsed moderate to severe anxiety symptoms, 12% endorsed moderate to severe depressive symptoms, and 26.5% endorsed experiencing at least one of five symptoms of PTSD. Moreover, we found that these leaders report having slightly higher levels of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) in their past than the average person in the Black community.

ACEs describe 10 different childhood experiences that, if they occur between birth and age 18, may have a detrimental effect on one›s physical and mental health well into adulthood. We found that church leaders with higher rates of ACEs (4 or more) were much more vulnerable to anxiety, depression, PTSD, burnout, and secondary traumatic stress.

We also found that for church

Because many Black church leaders serve congregations from communities that are froth with violence and social injustice, there is an emotional burden they carry – and it is taking a toll.

leaders with a higher number of ACEs, those who suffered from high levels of negative religious coping (i.e. questioning God’s love, or believing God is punishing them) during times of hardship had even greater chances of suffering from trauma and other mental illness. In other words, ministry leaders who wondered whether God had abandoned them or felt punished by God because of their lack of devotion were significantly

more likely to suffer from trauma symptoms. This indicates that despite one’s public theology (i.e. what one preaches or teaches about God), one’s intrapersonal theology (i.e. what one believes in their heart and mind about God relating to them) has a more significant effect on one’s emotional wellbeing. A second predictor of traumatic symptoms, for those who suffered from childhood adversity, was feeling as if their

church was not emotionally supportive of them. Not surprisingly, the relationship that a leader has with her congregation has significant implications for her well-being.

What can be done to help

What we do know is that the relationship one has with their congregation has the potential to be healing despite one’s suffering from ACEs. Those who felt their congregations were emotionally supportive were less likely to suffer from traumatic symptoms despite experiencing painful events in childhood, even when they suffered from negative religious thoughts such as believing God was punishing them for their lack of devotion.

Conversely, ministry leaders who engage in positive religious coping (i.e. believe in God›s love for them in the midst of suffering) tend to suffer less trauma, even if they have suffered numerous childhood adversities.

And yet for leaders who had lower levels of positive religious coping, the perception of their congregation’s support was an even more significant predictor of their mental well-being. Finally, we found the practice of positive religious coping was so significant that it had the potential to compensate for the lack of emotional support from the congregation.

Eric M. Brown, Ph.D., is an assistant professor of Mental Health Counseling and Behavioral Medicine in the Department of Psychiatry at Boston University’s School of Medicine.

Photo courtesy of Psychology Today

Guest Columnist

SLDC IS EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

The St. Louis Development Corporation (SLDC) is eagerly seeking candidates to join our team as we endeavor to bring economic justice to St. Louis City residents and communities that were disproportionately impacted by the coronavirus pandemic.

There are multiple 2-4-year limited term positions available, term of employment will vary for each position.

These positions will assist in the administration and implementation of various Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund (SLFRF) Programs targeted for households, small businesses and communities adversely impacted by the pandemic.

All positions will be funded in whole or in part through an allocation of Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) from the US Department of the Treasury and the City of St. Louis’ Community Development Administration.

To see the full job description of positions available and to apply online go to: http://www.stlouis-mo.gov/sldc/ and click on “Careers at SLDC.” SLDC is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity.

JR81166 Purchasing/Receiving Assistant - McDonnell Genome Institute (MGI)

This position is responsible for receiving and/or purchasing storeroom supplies, including upkeep of inventory tracking system for assigned department. Asset tracking, review, and acceptance for assigned department. Assisting as needed for Preventative Maintenance visits to orchestrate between lab and vendor. The ideal candidate will meet the following required qualifications: High school diploma or equivalent high school certificate. One year of prior work experience. University required EH&S certificate of training specific to department (to be completed on the job). Depending upon department, possess or obtain prior to employment Missouri Class E driver’s license or equivalent.

JR81346 - LPN Opportunities

WashU is seeking LPNS with current or recent hospital or clinic experience to work at one of our many clinic locations. Preferences: Experience with Epic documentation and current/recent hospital or clinic experience.

Our openings include Orthopedic Surgery, Otolaryngology, Pediatrics, Urological Surgery and Gastroenterology.

INDIVIDUAL GIVING MANAGER

Forest Park Forever has a position open for an Individual Giving Manager. The position is responsible for cultivating and maintaining relationships with individual donors to secure financial support to advance the mission and objectives of Forest Park Forever. Please visit https://www. forestparkforever.org/jobs for full details and to apply online.

FAMILY SUPPORT SPECIALIST II

Urban Strategies, Inc is seeking applicants for the Family Support Specialist II position. To view the full job description for the Associate Project Manager, visit https://workforcenow.adp.com/ mascsr/default/mdf/ recruitment/recruitment. html?cid=a2c37eec-f84c-45 d0-ac24-4ca57894e7dc&ccId=19000101_000001&jobId=535345& source=CC2&lang=en_US . After entering our website, click on Who We Are and select Join Our Team to find career opportunities. USI is an Equal Opportunity employer, and this position is funded in whole or in part with Choice Neighborhood Initiative grant funds from the US Department of HUD.

JOB ANNOUNCEMENT

PERMIT CLERK/FRONT DESK

ABOUT THE CITY OF PAGEDALE

Our mission is to provide the highest quality ser- vices to our residents, and we do so by fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and inclu- sion. Join us for the opportunity to contribute to our community and develop a bright future with the City of Pagedale.

HERE IS WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING:

Be responsible for providing public relations, and clerical services including issuing permits and collecting fees for permits and licenses, answer- ing routine building and housing code questions from the general public, and the scheduling of inspections.

OUR IDEAL CANDIDATE HAS:

At least two years of experience in general office work. Construction or code enforcement background is desirable. Some knowledge of con- struction practices, building permit processing, and code enforcement procedures is required. Must be able to learn and use a variety of com- puter applications. Must be able to handle mul- tiple tasks with accuracy and attention to detail and frequent interruptions. As well as to maintain the privacy and confidentiality of information received and provide courteous, accurate and timely information to the public. Must have some knowledge of business correspondence formats, record keeping and filing systems. We are will- ing to train the right candidate.

OUR WORKING ENVIRONMENT: Indoor office environment. THE MANY PERKS OF

Statements

Qualifications are due by 5:00 PM CT, Wednesday, May 1, 2024, through the Bid Express online portal at https://www.bidexpress. com/businesses/20618/ home?agency=true. RFQ may be obtained from the BPS website https://www.stlouis-mo. gov/government/departments/public-service/ bps-online-plan-room.cfm under OnLine Plan RoomPlan Room, or call Board of Public Service at 314589-6214. 25% MBE and 5% WBE participation goals.

STRUCTURAL REPAIRS, ROOF TARPING, RUBBISH REMOVAL, AND FINISH REMOVAL

ISSUED APRIL 18, 2024

RESPONSES DUE MAY 9, 2024

The Land Reutilization Authority of the City of St. Louis, Missouri (“Authority”) will receive sealed bids for Structural Repairs & Related Work at 6111 Dr. Martin Luther King Dr. Selected firm(s) will provide comprehensive services to address several critical aspects of infrastructure rehabilitation and maintenance.

Primarily focus is on Structural Repairs, Exterior Rubbish Removal, Interior Finish Removal, and Roof Tarping.

Responses will be received at 1520 Market Street Suite 2000 St. Louis, Missouri 63103 (Attention: 6111 Dr. Martin Luther King Drive RFB), until 4:00 PM on May 9th, 2024.

The Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) allocated to SLDC, passed through the St. Louis City Community Development Administration, may provide funding for certain projects. SLDC is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity.

The full invitation and all other documents may be downloaded at: https://www.stlouis-mo.gov/ government/procurement.cfm

POLAR BEAR CHILLED WATER PIPING REPAIRS

RFP 2024

The Saint Louis Zoo seeks bids from qualified firms to submit proposals. Bid documents are available as of 4/17/24 on the Saint Louis Zoo website: stlzoo.org/vendor

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

The 22nd Judicial Circuit seeks proposals for community-based adult pretrial services. Proposals should be submitted no later than 10:00 a.m. on May 20, 2024. Interested providers may obtain the proposal specifications at www .stlcitycircuitcourt.com, under the General Information tab.

CITY OF ST. LOUIS BOARD OF PUBLIC SERVICE

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS FOR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES WATER

Statements of Qualifications are due by 5:00 PM CT, May 17, 2024, through the Bid Express online portal at https://www.bidexpress. com/businesses/20618/ home?agency=true. RFQ may be obtained from the BPS website https://www. stlouis-mo.gov/government/ departments/public-service/, under BPS RFQ and RFP Announcement, or email Board of Public Service at bryanth@stlouis-mo.gov 25% MBE & 5% WBE participation goals.

The Twenty-Second Judicial Circuit is currently soliciting proposals for Contract Security Services under the direction of the Circuit Court in the Family Courts Building, 920 N. Vandeventer, St. Louis, Missouri 63108; Juvenile Detention Center, 3847 Enright Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63108; and Juvenile Annex, 3827 Enright Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63108.

The Request for Proposal is available on the Court’s website http:// www.stlcitycircuitcourt. com, click on General Information, then Request for Proposals.

Proposals must be received no later than 10 a.m. on May 28, 2024.

SEALED BIDS

Bids for Replace Fire & Smoke Detector System at Harry S Truman State Office Building, Project No. O2001-01, will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, May 16, 2024 via MissouriBUYS. Bidders must be registered to bid. Project information available at: http://oa.mo. gov/facilities

SEALED BIDS

Bids for Replace Fire Alarm Panels - Multiple Assets, Southeast Correctional Center, Project No. C2310-01 will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, May 16, 2024. For specific project information and ordering plans, go to: http://oa.mo. gov/facilities

INVITATION TO BID

The Twenty-Second Judicial Circuit is currently soliciting proposals for Garage Door and Moving Gate Service under the direction of the circuit court in the Carnahan Courthouse, 1114 Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63101; Civil Court Building, 10 N. Tucker Blvd., St. Louis, Missouri 63101; and Juvenile Family Courts Building, 920 N. Vandeventer, St. Louis, Missouri 63108;

The Request for Proposal is available on the Court’s website http://www. stlcitycircuitcourt. com, click on General Information, then Request for Proposals. Proposals must be received no later than 10 a.m. on May 21, 2024.

INVITATION TO BID

REQUEST FOR BIDS

Alberici Constructors, Kwame Building Group and the Saint Louis Zoo seek bids from qualified firms to submit proposals for a project at the Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Park. The project consists of subcontractor scopes of work related to the following categories:

1. Miscellaneous Site Work

2. Visitor Entrance Building

3. Vehicle Maintenance, Loading, and Parking

4. Event Center

5. Giraffe Feeding

6. Lodging Cabins

7. Animal Health Center

8. Distribution Center

9. Outdoor Activity Area

To request bid documents, please send an E-mail to stlzoobids@alberici.com.

with sustainable economic opportunities through developing the adjacent land and other government programs Information

The Twenty-Second Judicial Circuit is currently soliciting proposals for Door Maintenance under the direction of the circuit court in the Carnahan Courthouse, 1114 Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63101; Civil Court Building, 10 N. Tucker Blvd., St. Louis, Missouri 63101; Juvenile Family Courts Building, 920 N. Vandeventer, St. Louis, Missouri 63108; Juvenile Detention Center, 3847 Enright Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63108; and Juvenile Annex, 3827 Enright Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63108.

The Request for Proposal is available on the Court’s website http://www. stlcitycircuitcourt.com, click on General Information, then Request for Proposals.

Proposals must be received no later than 10 a.m. on May 21, 2024

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS

Sealed bids

ADVERTISEMENT/ NOTICE

Bids for New Laboratory Campus Multi-Agency, Project No. O2301-01 will be received by McCownGordon Construction at the office of OA/FMDC, State of MO UNTIL 2:00PM, May 8, 2024. Project location is 135 N Chestnut St, Jefferson City, MO 65101. Bid Package 01 Scopes of work including: Earthwork, Site Utilities, Concrete, and Caissons. Bid Package information available at: https://app. buildingconnected.com/public/565cdb606895000f004164f2 MBE participation goal of 10% and WBE participation Goals of 10% and SDVE participation goal of 3% are included. OA/FMDC reserves the right to reject any and all bids and to waive all informalities in bids. McCownGordon Construction is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

INVITATION TO BID

The Twenty-Second Judicial Circuit is currently soliciting proposals to replace the existing fencing at the Juvenile Annex at 3827 Enright Avenue, St. Louis, Missouri 63108 under the direction of the Circuit Court;

The Request for Proposal is available on the Court’s website http://www. stlcitycircuitcourt. com, click on General Information, then Request for Proposals.

Proposals must be received no later than 10 a.m. on May 14, 2024.

8

2024. For specific project information and ordering plans, go to: http:// oa.mo.gov/ facilities

INVITATION TO BID FERGUSONFLORISSANT SCHOOL DISTRICT ASBESTOS AIR MONITORING A VARIOUS SCHOOLS

Sealed bids are being requested from the Ferguson Florissant School District and will be received and publicly opened on Monday, April 22nd cst at 1:00pm @ 8855 Dunn Rd. Hazelwood, MO 63042. Bid specs must be obtained at http://new.fergflor. k12.mo.us/facilities-rfq. Contact Matthew Furfaro @ mfurfaro@fergflor.org for further information/ questions.

Advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, imitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial\status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.“We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.”

Call Angelita Houston at 314-289-5430 or email ahouston@stlamerican.com to place your ads today!

Continued from C1

album “Jackpot” as a joint venture with Capitol Records. The album went on to sell nearly 3 million copies and solidified Chingy as a certified rap star. Confluence Music Festival acts from across the region also will include Blinded by Stereo, the Bobby Ford Band, Dave Grelle’s Playadors, DJ Mahf, DJ Mo Samba, DJ Nune, Dr. Zhivegas, Fanfare, JC Supercar, Lamar Harris’ Georgia Mae, Malena Smith, Matt Jordan, Red and Black Brass Band, St. Boogie Brass Band and We Are Root Mod. There also will be special performances

by BeBe Winans, J Creek Cloggers, the Madison High School Marching Band, Caroline Geringer, TJ Staten, The Muny Teens, the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and more. “WWTR takes great pride in hosting NASCAR and bringing the thrill of motorsports to Illinois and Missouri,” said WWTR Owner and CEO Curtis Francois. “Our goal is to curate a music lineup for the greater St. Louis area that mirrors this excitement, creating the ultimate intersection of music and motorsports.” Confluence Music Festival upgrade packages include front-of-stage/Fan Zone access. Adult Sunday ticket packages start at just $67.

“The Steward family and World Wide Technology have brought a world-

class event to the St. Louis area that continues to energize fans of motorsports and live music,” said Jason Hall, CEO of Greater St. Louis, Inc. “The NASCAR Enjoy Illinois 300 and Confluence Music Festival provide a tremendous economic shot in the arm for the region and are a boon for downtown hotels, restaurants and attractions, adding to the momentum building in St. Louis.” A full Confluence Music Festival entertainment schedule with performance times will be announced.

For tickets and more information, call World Wide Technology Raceway at (618) 215-8888, visit WWTRaceway.com or follow @WWTRaceway on social media. NASCAR

Photo courtesy of World Wide Technology Raceway