April 25th, 2024 e-Edition

There is something heartening and encouraging about a mayor, born and raised in North St. Louis, addressing opportunities for progress in that section of the city. This was on full display Tuesday during Mayor Tishaura Jones’ press conference held at the headquarters of Better Family Life, Inc. on Page Blvd in the city’s 13th Ward. Think about it historically. In 200 years, since the election of St. Louis’ first mayor, William

Nelly and Ashanti engaged with one on the way

Ashanti (43) proudly showed her first baby bump while her song “Sweet Baby” played in a short video clip on Instagram. St. Louis’ Nelly first hinted at a pregnancy at their 11th Black and White Ball. Nelly placed his hand on Ashanti’s stomach; she made a heart over it before sharing a laugh.

“This new year of my life is such a blessing full of love, hope, and anticipation. Moth erhood is something that I have looked forward to, and sharing this with my family, fiancé, and loyal fans, who have been so supportive of my career, is an amazing experi-

ence,” Ashanti said. The baby will be Nelly’s third; his two other children from a previous relationship are Chanelle, 29, and Cornell Haynes III, 24.

Nelly also adopted his sister, Jackie Donahue’s kids, Shawn and Sydney Thomas, after she passed away from leukemia.

Pam Grier project could involve Cardi B and pole dancing

Pam Grier, the iconic actress who soared to stardom in 1970s films including “Foxy Brown” and “Coffy,” then took Hollywood by storm with Samuel Jackon in the 1997 Quinten Tarantino hit “Jackie Brown,“ recently shared with Andy Cohen a movie project she would still like to complete.

During an appearance on “What Happens Live with Andy Cohen,” a fan asked about a project she

wrote for herself and rapper Cardi B “I really wanted to work with [Cardi]. It’s perfect for her because she’s a great mom,” Grier said. BET reports that the film would involve “some exciting pole dancing.” “I’m now learning how to pole dance and it’s taken a minute, but it’s a lot of fun,” said Grier, who added she would portray “a pole dancer mom with a heart of gold. I’m the pole dancer, and [Cardi B] teaches me.”

Jill Scott sparks backlash for supporting Chris Brown’s ‘artistry’

merly Twitter, “So, after the new song came out, Jill tweeted, “@chrisbrown is amazing. How does ANYBODY sing like THAT? Dance, look, Act and Rap… like THAT? Beyond gifted. It appears that exceptional people have to go through exceptional ‘fire emoji’. There’s nothing to debate.”

Ever since his 2009 assault on Rihanna, Brown has been consistently embroiled in assault cases and legal issues.

In the wake of Chris Brown’s umpteenth controversy, he released a diss record about Migos rapper Quavo, allegedly dating Brown’s ex, Karrueche Tran

Jill Scott took it upon herself to let her admiration for Chris Brown be known loud and clear. Soon after the song’s release, Scott jumped on X, for-

When a fan told Scott they couldn’t “look past”

Chris’s problematic history, Jill declared she’s “not here to fight anyone else’s battles.” “If/since women hear the stories, they should avoid that street.

Running backward in moving traffic makes zero sense.

Therapy for every damn body.”

Brown dated Karrueche until he impregnated another woman. Then he was recorded bothering Karrueche in public, begging for forgiveness and targeting Omarion and Victor Cruz, who have been linked to her.

Sources: Entertainment Tonight, Buzzfeed, BET

Ashanti and Nelly Jill Scott

Pam Grier

AT&T opens Connected Learning Center at BGC Herbert Hoover location

By Alvin A. Reid St. Louis American

Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis (BGCSTL) Club members are enjoying the new AT&T Connected Learning Center (CLC) at BGC Herbert Hoover Club, 2901 N. Grand Blvd.

The new center expands a partnership with AT&T and Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis to provide access to high-speed Internet, Dell Technologies computers, and digital learning resources. In addition, AT&T contributed $50,000 to BGCSTL for programming support.

“Thank you, AT&T, for your commitment to providing youth with the tools needed to enable them to realize their full potential in the digital space,” said BGCSTL President Flint Fowler.

“We hope this is not the last Connected Learning Center to open at Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis.”

In St. Louis, it is estimated that nearly half of city households are affected by the digital divide. On a national scale, one in five households lack connection to the internet, and 35% of Americans do not have the digital literacy skills needed to navigate the online world.

“Club members were delighted to receive free laptops distributed by AT&T at Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis

Teen Center of Excellence in Ferguson last year,” Fowler said.

“At Boys and Girls Clubs, we know that when we equip our youth with the tools they need to succeed, they can build great futures.”

Community leaders, AT&T representatives, volunteers, and local and state lawmakers were on hand to celebrate the unveiling of the new CLC. Included were state Sens. Karla May and Steve Roberts, and state Rep. LaKeySha Bosley (District 79), a former BGC Herbert Hoover Club kid. BGC Herbert Hoover Club member Jessie Jones, who spoke during the ceremony, said, “It’s exciting to see the new room; everything was so old. Now everything is new & nice.”

“This new AT&T Connected Learning Center is just one element of our nationwide effort to get more Americans – and more Missourians – connected and make an impact in the communities we serve,” said AT&T Missouri President Craig Unruh.

This is the second Connected Learning Center in the St. Louis area. The first was unveiled in October at the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis regional headquarters in the former Victor Roberts Building at 1408 North Kingshighway. “The Urban League understands the importance of empowering communities with resources that create pathways

to economic self-reliance,” said Jacqueline Carter, the Urban League center director at the October opening.

“Access to technology, connectivity, and digital education are essential components for educating communities, producing quality workers, and improving life outcomes. Whether someone needs basic computer skills, Microsoft Office applications training, or a professional development course, we help make success possible.”

Earlier in the week, AT&T teamed up with the Urban League to distribute 300 laptops to area families and students, including students enrolled in an entrepreneurship program at Harris-Stowe State University. The latest distribution was done in collaboration with Compudopt. And, on April 10, AT&T teamed up with

NPower to open a technology help desk for individuals in the St. Louis area. Last year, AT&T also distributed laptops to families at the Urban League facility in North St. Louis; the Boys and Girls Club of Greater St. Louis Teen Center of Excellence in Ferguson; and the Gene Slay Boys and Girls Club. The resources at the center provide students with content and activities to support learning outside the classroom and help parents and caregivers build skills and confidence using technology. Included is The Achievery, a free digital learning platform created by AT&T, as well as free digital literacy courses and workshops created with the Public Library Association. AT&T employees and community leaders also provide

for programming support and distributed 200 free laptops to K-12 students served by the Club.

tutoring and mentoring.

“The AT&T Connected Learning Center initiative allows Dell and AT&T to bring our core competencies to bear, creating opportunities for communities to access technology, connectivity, and learning resources that are not readily available otherwise,” said Maia Wagner, Dell Technologies director of giving and impact. “We are thrilled our collaboration can extend to St. Louis and increase adoption and success in today’s digital economy.” There are now 38 centers in the U.S, and AT&T plans to offer more than 50 locations by mid2024. In 2021, the company launched its three-year, $2 billion commitment to help narrow the digital divide.

Photo by Wiley Price I St. Louis American

Help stop this monstrous man

The fact that exit polls showed that Donald Trump received 9 percent of the Black vote in 2016, the highest number since George Bush in 2000 and then won 12 percent in the presidential race in 2020 should be a cause for concern.

Moreover some recent polls surprisingly showed that if the presidential election was held today, 17 percent of Black voters say they would vote for Trump and even more troubling is 20 percent say they would vote for someone other than either Trump or President Biden. Black voters have been the largest and most loyal voting bloc for Democrats for years, but there has been a shift in the number of Black voters who consider themselves Democrats.

That trend could be explained partially by a number of younger Black voters with no direct experience with the civil rights movement. They have scant knowledge and no direct personal memory. They feel disappointed with Democrats and the Biden administration and seem willing to consider Trump despite his blatant and toxic racial baggage.

and duplicitous Trump who has shown repeatedly that he is an instigator of racial hate. Any relationship he has with Black voters has been deceptive and disingenuous.

Fortunately, the overwhelming majority of Black voters can not be bamboozled or deceived because we know the record of his stance on healthcare with his recent attacks on Obamacare, opposition to greater diversity in the workplace and efforts to restrict our voting rights as well as his racist, conspiracist “birther campaign” that sought to undermine the then-president, Barack Obama.

n A Trump victory would be a grave threat to the well being of Black Americans for certain.

This disconnection with the Democratic party is felt most strongly with some young Black males, many in critical battleground states like Michigan, Wisconsin, Georgia, Arizona, Pennsylvania and North Carolina where Democrats need every vote. Most of these states have large concentrations of Black voters in their urban areas.This is a special issue in close races like this one because the Electoral College gives Republicans a massive advantage in federal elections. This system allows them to govern with a minority of the popular vote.

However there is also data that shows that the Democratic candidate for president over the last five presidential elections since 2000 has averaged 90% of the Black vote with an average of only 8% for the GOP candidate. In addition, the overwhelming concern of most Black voters continues to be race and racism with a particular aversion to the reprehensible

Still we can’t simply ignore the reports that Trump is possibly making inroads with Black voters while Biden is losing support from us. Granted polls have been shown not to be reliable predictors of what Black voters will do. Actually our biggest worry should probably be third-party voting (third party presidential candidates have no chance of winning. This is a binary election and only a Democrat or Republican can win) and potential voter apathy, despite the high stakes in this contest to determine whether Donald Trump is elected again.

Clay Cane, a Sirius XM radio host rightly says that the 2024 presidential election is not just a choice between the lesser of two evils, but this is an election to see if we can stop Trump and his pernicious plans to institute a future dictatorship to carry out his vile policies. A Trump victory would be a grave threat to the well being of Black Americans for certain.

In any case, the Democratic party must recognize the seriousness of the disenchantment of many Black voters who don’t feel motivated to make it to the polls and campaign more directly and intentionally in our community.

Furthermore we ourselves must make an unprecedented and determined push to get to the polls in greater numbers to help stop this monstrous man and his MAGA minions from regaining control of the White House.

As I See It - A Forum for Community Issues

A Black vote for Trump is just plain stupid

By James Clingman

While our overall political status leaves much to be desired, I want to hone in on one slice of it: The slice called DEI. Donald Trump and others are constantly railing against Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. In my opinion, it’s the new N-word.

It’s hilarious that Trump thinks DEI is bad when he uses it to boost his popularity. Diversity? Inclusion? He has insulted Hispanics by calling them rapists and criminals. He said they are poisoning the blood of this country.

He insults women in so many ways, questioning their intelligence and competency when it comes to what they think is right for their bodies.

He insulted Muslims when he issued a ban against their entrance to this country.

He insulted Jews by questioning their beliefs and saying those among them who vote for Democrats are not Jewish.

countries by calling them S---hole nations, which is also an insult to our ancestors. It’s obvious Trump knows nothing about African history, but even if he did it would not change his insults.

He knows nothing about the greatness of Songhai, Mali, Timbuktu, Kemet, Ethiopia, and many other African nations of then and now.

What really hurts is the fact that some members of our group will also vote for Trump. With folks like Clarence Thomas, Byron Donalds, Candace Owens, and Tim Scott leading the way, some pitiful Black people will follow them to the gallows. That staged event in Atlanta was certainly one for the books. Trump plants a Black stooge in a Chick-fil-A, who hugged and swooned over him. It was set up.

Do you know how many Black workers there are in government jobs? Trump and Steven Miller have plans to downsize when they get back in charge. Black unemployment increase? You betcha.

“It’s insulting that Smith seems to compare Trump’s four criminal indictments to legal attacks on iconic Black historical figures.”

Stephen A. Smith should be ashamed

By Keith Boykin

Stephen A. Smith has apologized for remarks last week suggesting that Trump was receiving support from the Black community because we relate to his legal woes.

“A lot of folks in Black America seem pretty pissed at me right now,” said the controversial ESPN host. “For that, I sincerely apologize.”

But it wasn’t really an apology.

Smith claimed that his words were “misconstrued, “taken out of context,” and misrepresented him in a way that he found “every bit as insulting and disrespectful as folks in Black America evidently felt about what they thought I said.”

No one likes to be misquoted, so let’s go back and revisit what Smith actually said.

Smith appeared on the Fox News “Hannity” show on April 18 and discussed Trump’s claim that “Black folks find him relatable because what he is going through is similar to what Black Americans have gone through.” Trump “wasn’t lying,” Smith said. “He was telling the truth.”

signed to delay his cases to the struggle of ordinary African Americans simply trying to pay their bills and not get harassed by the police. “We relate to you when you’re suffering like that cause we know we have,” Smith told Hannity.

Perhaps Smith forgot that Trump is not the hero fighting against racial profiling and targeting of Black people but the villain who’s openly encouraging it, who teargassed peaceful Black Lives Matter protesters, threatened to shoot looters on the spot, and encouraged police brutality by telling cops “don’t be too nice” when making arrests, even though people are supposed to be innocent until proven guilty.

“When you see the law…being exercised against him, it is something that Black folks throughout this nation can relate to with some of our historic, iconic figures,” Smith told Fox News viewers.

How, exactly, was that taken out of context? That’s not a statement about how Trump sees Black America but how Smith sees Black America responding to Trump’s trials.

Of course, Black people were upset. It’s insulting that Smith seems to compare Trump’s four criminal indictments and 88 felony charges to the legal attacks on iconic Black historical figures. Trump, on the other hand, is facing two criminal cases for fighting against Black people by trying to throw out millions of Black votes in Atlanta, Detroit, Philadelphia, and other cities with large Black populations in states he lost in 2020.

What’s most insulting about Smith’s argument is his attempt to equate the legal troubles of a self-proclaimed white “billionaire” with an army of lawyers as-

Or maybe he forgot that Trump’s 2020 election scam targeted and endangered the lives of two Black Fulton County poll workers, Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss, who had to go into hiding to protect themselves from his vigilantes. Or that his infamous 1989 lynch mob helped to lock up five wrongly accused Black and brown teenagers in prison for years. Black people will face even greater threats if Trump is elected in November. He promises he will pardon the January 6 insurrectionists, “indemnify” crooked police officers accused of misconduct, and bring back stop-and-frisk policies that unfairly targeted Black people.

Stephen A. Smith’s non-apology “apology” mentions none of that history or policy, but he does justify his earlier remarks by citing five recent polls that show Trump leading Biden.

All polls indicate that Black people overwhelmingly reject Donald Trump, but perhaps more Black Americans would appreciate the grave danger he poses if influential Black people with popular platforms realized they have a duty to educate, not just to entertain.

“Black Vote, Black Power,” a collaboration between Keith Boykin and Word In Black, examines the issues, the candidates, and what’s at stake for Black America in the 2024 presidential election. Boykin is an author and former CNN political commentator

He insults Christians in a variety of ways, the latest of which includes hawking over-priced bibles but can’t recite one verse from it. He says he gets forgiveness by drinking a little wine and eating a cracker.

He insulted Puerto Ricans by throwing paper towels to them after they suffered one of the worst hurricanes in their history. He insulted veterans by calling their dead “suckers and losers.” He asked his general what’s in it for them (soldiers and sailors).

Now let’s look at Black people, my people. Trump called for the death penalty for five Black teens wrongly accused of crimes. He insulted Obama by questioning his citizenship. Trump has insulted others like “my African American,” and his water boy, Tim Scott, who then insulted himself by responding, “I just love you.”

To top it all off, he insulted African

Diversity and inclusion, when used as Trump does, are despicable and evil. His insults and name-calling are as diverse and inclusive as they come. Used properly, DEI is simply a tool to assist in the repair of Black people. Long overdue.

But what about Equity? Well, that simply means “The quality of being fair and impartial,” something the anti-DEI crowd would do well to learn and implement.

But please don’t allow Trump to insult your intelligence, and have enough pride and resolve not to insult yourself. C’mon people. Please don’t be stupid.

James Clingman wrote columns for the NNPA for 25 years before ALS took his ability to write. He has returned to writing at ALS News Today, www.alsnewstoday. com, though the use of an eye gaze computer.

Guest Columnist James Clingman

Guest Columnist Keith Boykin

Dellwood displays its renovated recreational center

Includes basketball, pickleball courts

St. Louis American

The City of Dellwood celebrated the re-opening of the Dellwood Recreation Center at 10266 West Florissant Avenue on Friday, April 19, 2024.

Mayor Reggie Jones called the center “a cornerstone of community engagement and recreational activities.”

Following extensive renovations, the former indoor soccer arena has been transformed into a state-of-the-art multipurpose gymnasium. The new facility includes eight basketball backboards, a three-lane indoor walking track, four pickleball courts, two new scoreboards, LED lighting, and newly painted walls.

“These upgrades enhance the center’s ability to serve as a vibrant hub for youth and community activities,” said Jones.

“This project reflects our commitment to providing high-quality recreational spaces that cater to the diverse interests of our residents.

The renovation project was supported through funding from the St. Louis County

n Following extensive renovations, the former indoor soccer arena has been transformed into a state-ofthe-art multipurpose gymnasium.

Municipal Park Grant Commission and the City of Dellwood Capital Improvement Fund. The Weis Design Group led the architectural and design efforts, with McConnell and Associates STL serving as the general contractor.

The Rec Center will offer annual memberships for both residents and non-residents, allowing full access to the facility. The city plans to host leagues and various recreational activities, further enriching the community’s social and physical well-being.

For additional information on the Rec Center and memberships, please contact Terry Wilson at twilson@cityofdellwoodmo.com or call (314) 698-3531.

The continuing fight for justice

By Marian Wright Edelman

On April 2, 109-year-olds Viola Fletcher, who recently spoke at Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville, and Lessie Benningfield Randle appeared at a Tulsa courthouse in a hearing before Oklahoma’s Supreme Court.

Mother Fletcher and Mother Randle, as they are known in their communities, are the last two known survivors of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre.

In 2020, they were part of a group of survivors and descendants who filed a lawsuit seeking reparations for the white supremacist mob violence that destroyed Tulsa’s Greenwood District on May 31-June 1, 1921, devastating Tulsa’s Black community with effects that have rippled through generations.

At the time of the massacre, Greenwood was one of the most prosperous Black communities in the country, nicknamed “Black Wall Street,” and home to Black businesses, theaters, churches, restaurants and thousands of Black citizens. By the end of the mob violence, historians estimate as many as 300 Black citizens were killed, 35 city blocks were burned down and 10,000 people were left unhoused. Instead of stopping attackers, police deputized white civilians.

In 2021, Mrs. Fletcher, Mrs. Randle and Mrs. Fletcher’s brother Hughes Van Ellis, who passed away in October, were invited to provide congressional testimony on the massacre’s centennial.

Mrs. Fletcher, who had just turned 7 when the massacre happened, said, “On May 31 in 1921, I went to bed at my family’s home in the Greenwood neighborhood of Tulsa. The neighborhood I fell asleep in that night was rich — not just in terms of wealth, but in culture, community, heritage, and my family had a beautiful home. We had great neighbors and I had friends to play with. I felt safe. I had everything a child could need. I had a bright future ahead of me. … Within a few hours, all that was gone.” Mrs. Randle, who was 6, testified about her own memories before her grandmother’s home was destroyed: “I didn’t have any fears as a young child, and I felt very safe. My community was beautiful. It was filled with happy and successful Black people. Then, everything changed. It was like a war. White men with guns came and destroyed my community. I still see it today in my mind — 100 years later.”

Last summer, a judge dismissed their case. Many observers believe their appeal before the state’s Supreme Court on whether they have the right to continue their lawsuit may be one of the final chances for Mrs. Fletcher and Mrs. Randle to receive some measure of justice and peace. They said in a joint statement, “We are grateful that our nowweary bodies have held on long enough to witness an America, and an Oklahoma, that provides [the race massacre] survivors with the opportunity to access the legal system. Many have come before us who have knocked and banged on the courthouse doors only to be turned around or never let through the door.” The fight continues.

Marian Wright Edelman is founder and president emerita of the Children’s Defense Fund.

The Rush Soccer Club “Adrenaline” is among the teams and community members who use the Dellwood Recreational Center. The center celebrated its re-opening after renovations funded by the St. Louis County Municipal Park Grant Commission and the City of Dellwood Capital Improvement Fund.

Photo courtesy of City of Dellwood

Marian Wright Edelman

public services; early childhood education, small business development and many more endeavors her administration has implemented in North St. Louis.

“I grew up in this neighborhood,” Jones said in her opening remarks.

“My cousins and I used to ride our bikes up and down Page. I used to go to youth parties at the Monsanto YMCA. My mother and her sisters had many homes around here and we’d just hop between homes and have a good ole time with our families. Those are the times that I miss about growing up in St. Louis.”

During her first State of the City address in 2022, Jones promised to spend much of the $150 million in American Rescue Plan (ARPA) funds in North St. Louis to “begin bridging the racial wealth gap” and “put St. Louis on the road to economic justice.”

Jons told the crowd: “We have received about $500 million in ARPA dollars, and we have committed over half of that to the ‘economic justice plan’ and we’re using it to build and invest in North

St. Louis…not only for this neighborhood but for every corner of our city that hasn’t seen investment in decades.” Boasting that she still lives in the 13th Ward, Jones said, “My administration is committed to bringing people together to solve problems that impact you and create change that you can see and feel in your neighborhoods.”

As a self-professed “nerd,” Jones said she loves “budget season.” She recalled her role as the city’s treasurer (2013 to 2021) when she “managed a budget of millions, increased the city’s credit rating and oversaw hundreds of workers.”

“As mayor, I still do those things but now on a larger scale,” Jones added. On the opposite side of progress, Jones took issue with GOP politicians in Jefferson City pushing legislation that would exempt certain workers outside city limits from paying the city’s 1% earnings tax and their efforts to take over the police department. “I’m talking about politicians who have never been to St. Louis other than a Cardinals or Blues game. They’re trying to tell us how to run our city. I think we know what’s best for our city,” Jones

said to exuberant applause. Describing the city’s earnings tax as “essential money that pays for our first responders, our street improvements, and other critical services. If we get rid of the earnings tax, that’s a $300 million dollar hit to our budget per year.”

With the city’s Police Chief, Robert J. Tracy, at her side nodding in agreement, Jones said, “We’re fighting like hell to maintain control of our city’s police department. Again, we don’t need these out-

Loan

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The application asks when borrowers originally took out their student loans and how much money they make each month. DesJean says

state legislators who don’t know jack about St. Louis telling us how we should run our police department. This man right here (pointing to Tracy) knows how to run our police department.”

Jones said her proposed budget, “has fully funded the Office of Violence Prevention and the Bureau of Behavioral health.” She also spoke to her administration’s work to increase public safety in the city, which includes building a “state-of-the-art” 911 facility to expedite responses to

borrowers in certain professions might qualify for public service loan forgiveness.

The path after college is often wrought with competition, persistence, and all types of debt.

An analysis last year found that Black college graduates had

emergency calls. “We’re putting (the word) ‘public’ back into public safety and making you safer in the process. We follow three tenants of public safety: ‘prevention, intervention, and enforcement. In order to keep everybody safe; it’s not just police officers, it’s not just firefighters, it’s not just EMS; it’s also behavioral health professionals and trusted messengers all working together to keep everybody safe. The mayor’s team passed out information

an average of $52,000 in student loan debt and that’s four years after college, Black students owe an average of 188% more than white students borrowed.

that specifically outlined buildings for sale in the 13th Ward; funds for potential contractors interested in her “Healthy Homes Repair” program in North St. Louis; the $6.5 million allocated for “year-round” youth jobs; grants for small businesses in the city’s 14 wards; First time homebuyers assistance; Efforts to improve air conditioning and pool services at the city’s recreational centers; a new garbage recycling program and a host of other accomplishments she’ll probably detail further during her May 14th State of the City” address. Jones said she’s working hard to change the negative narrative that has described the city for decades. Ending her remarks as a cheerleader for St. Louis, Jones urged the audience to become fellow cheerleaders who will help her reimagine the city of her youth.

“We’re putting in the work now so we can continue to share the stories of what we love about our city,” Jones stressed. “All roads go through St. Louis and it’s up to us to make sure that we are telling our own stories about the great things happening in our city. “This is the best time to be in St. Louis.”

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

The federal consolidation program is intended, in part, to improve the tracking of federal loan repayments. Borrowers are supposed to be eligible for complete forgiveness — or cancellation — after a certain amount of time.

“The Department was identifying a lot of instances where students were saying, ‘Hey, I have been in repayment for 20 years or 25 years or more, and when I call my servicer, they don’t have a record of all of my payments,” DesJeans says. “It’s a necessary thing to fix.”

A study published in 2023 found that Black students who took out loans experienced “guilt, sadness, and fatigue,” in addition to stress from courseload expectations and post-graduation goals. Another study published in 2021 found that Black female HBCU students worried significantly about their debt while on campus.

Over the years, student loan repayment has been a contentious topic, with policymakers advocating for a range of solutions — from requiring lower rates on federal and private student loans to canceling a certain amount of debt per borrower. Student loan debt has been an aggravator of the racial wealth gap, placing financial strain on Black borrowers who are experiencing other racial disparities, such as lower wages compared to their racial or ethnic counterparts.

An analysis in 2020 of the racial wage gap found that Black workers often needed more education to out-earn white workers.

Dr. Sonia Lewis, CEO of The Student Loan Doctor, works with Black clients who have master’s or doctoral degrees — some with debt between $50,000 and $990,000.

“I have to be so calm and neutral,” says Dr. Lewis, “Because there’s a lot of shame around student loan debt. When we talk to them, I never ask why. I just go into solutions.”

The Biden-Harris administration has canceled an estimated $153 billion in loans so far through various programs. This student loan consolidation program is expected to help more than 900,000 borrowers.

St. Louis Police Chief Robert Tracy responding to a question during a meeting at the Better Family Life Education Center on public safety in St. Louis Tuesday, Apr. 23. At right is St. Louis Mayor Tishaura O. Jones.

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American

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days from the purchase date to obtain a permanent license. This proposal would allow an additional 30-day extension.

“As the price of new and used vehicles continues to skyrocket, I hope this legislation will provide needed relief to taxpayers, allowing more time to pay these increased sales tax bills,” said Sen. Williams.

“We have seen a dramatic increase in traffic stops and police encounters related to expired tags. My hope is this allows more people to keep their transportation and more officers to focus on bigger issues impacting our city.”

James Clark, Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis vice president of Public Safety, supports the proposed 30-day extension –but favors pushing it to 90 days.

“This has really become a public safety crisis,” Clark said.

New sheriffs in town

New St. Louis Sheriff Deputy Derrick Johnson (R) shakes hands with fellow classmate Brandon O.Bryant following graduation ceremonies at Harris Stowe State University on Tuesday, April 16.Sixteen graduates completed the Lincoln University Law Enforcement Training Academy program to become new members of the St. Louis Sheriff’s Department.

Lynch

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menu board by throwing a tray at it. Employees told him to leave and escorted him outside but violence ensued when a brawl broke out in the parking lot. The video shows Ricks grabbing the employee, dragging her by her hair

But you see hundreds of cars with expired tags. We can’t ignore the problem. How do we address it?

Clark favors an amnes-

“Vehicles with expired tags are more likely to be stolen; more likely to be used in a crime; more likely to be illegally sold or end up in a ‘chop shop.’” Clark said he knows of several families that “fell on hard times” and paying the personal property tax required to receive a non-temporary tag “becomes a major burden.’ “We do not want to remove accountability.

and then stomping on her head. As she rose from the ground, police said Ricks hit her on the head again.

Lynch’s stepmom

Shawnunique Phillips told KSDK “My 15-year-old daughter and her teenage co-workers were assaulted at their place of employment.”

“They came into the McDonald’s and began to spit on my daughter and

ty mitigation program like ones used to address traffic and child support warrants.

“You could bring your expired tags and proper identification. You would then receive a temporary tag of a certain color that would note the 90-day extension,” Clark said.

the young man at the cash register. The incident started in the drive-thru and escalated inside.” Phillips has created a GoFundMe account, which had raised over $33,000 of its $50,000 goal by noon Wednesday.

According to Phillips, Lynch suffered a skull fracture, frontal lobe damage, a broken nose, a concussion and lacerations to her head. She had surgery

He said the original 30 days plus a 90-day extension would be enough for a motorist to find the resources to get a vehicle properly licensed.

The Missouri Association of Auto Dealers recently estimated up to $60 million of taxes on vehicle sales were

on April 17, which the family said was successful.

Phillips said on the GoFundMe page that Lynch “still can’t breathe through her nose.”

“Please keep Aryiah in your prayers and let’s help to uplift her in the most positive way to help her remain in good spirits,” Phillips wrote. “She also loves school as is looking forward to

delinquent in the state. State Rep. Brad Pollitt sponsored a bill that would allow extreme measures to combat Missouri drivers with expired temporary vehicle tags. While the bill has not been passed, it could make it legal for law enforcement agents to stop, inspect, or detain a person “solely to determine whether a temporary permit is current.”

If the tag is deemed expired, the agent would be allowed to seize the tag and impose a fine of $200 for the violation.

walking the stage at graduation. The overwhelming response from friends, family and the community has already brought our family to tears.”

St. Louis County prosecutors have now charged Ricks with first-degree assault and second-degree property damage Phillips called her daughter an “ambitious, loving, sweet young lady who enjoys spending time

with her siblings and working at McDonald’s.” She said she was saving money for her upcoming birthday. “This assault has been a life changing experience for her,” Phillips wrote.

Ricks was being held on a $150,000 cash only bail as of Monday and was scheduled for a bond hearing on Thursday April 25, 2024.

Photo by Bill Greenblatt / St. Louis American

‘Taking Care of You’

Breaths of life

AirWatch STL fights for environmental justice

now serves as exec-

a

By Ashley Winters

The St. Louis American

Darian Wigfall, a long-time activist, has joined the fight against environmental racism. Wigfall, a former music label executive, is now executive director of St. Paul Episcopal Church in the Carondelet neighborhood. He is a part of the Metropolitan Congregations United (MCU) AirWatch STL program. The program is a St. Louis community-based air quality monitoring program. AirWatch STL has partnered with WashU Turner Lab and multiple congregations throughout the community to help fill the air quality data gap by equitably, scientifically, and strategically siting air quality monitors at

n “The difference between a 30-year smoker’s lungs and someone who does not smoke but lives in the city is very minimal.”

– Darian Wigfall

various congregations in the St. Louis region. The community-led campaign and actions address air quality concerns to public health.

The air monitor measures matter that float in the air, capturing data on floating pollutants. St. Paul Episcopal Church is next to a metal finishing

FDA sued for delays on menthol cigarette ban

‘Black Americans bear the greatest burden’

By Clayton Gutzmore Atlanta Voice

Several health organizations have assembled to take legal action against the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for their lack of movement on a public health matter.

The African American Tobacco Control Leadership Council (AATCLC), Action on Smoking and Health (ASH), and the National Medical Association (NMA) are filing a lawsuit against the FDA for not issuing the final rule banning menthol cigarettes. The leaders of the organizations announced

this in a virtual press conference. They explained why they had to go this route and expressed their grievances with the FDA and Biden Administration.

“We already know that tobacco is a critical public health issue that remains the leading cause of preventable death and disease. We need to keep beating the drum about how Black Americans bear the greatest burden of it, and it doesn’t have to be this way,” said Dr. Valerie Yerger, founding member of AATCLC. The Health Group virtual press

See FDA, A9

battle environmen-

plant that produces a lot of excess metal shavings that often float in the air. According to Wigfall these particles are inhaled by residents and worshippers in that neighborhood.

“The metal can obstruct your lung passages, create more mucus and asthma,” said Wigfall. He added, “The difference between a 30-year smoker’s lungs and someone who does not smoke but lives in the city is very minimal.”

“Environmental racism and environmental justice are something that impacts us all,” said Wigfall. Lead Environmental Organizer, Beth Gutzler at MCU said the 2019 Environmental Racism In St.Louis

In the spring of 2000, while working as a chief resident in family medicine, I was in my 3rd trimester of my first pregnancy. Most of my pregnancy had progressed without any concerns even though I was in a busy residency program who had no minority residents prior to me. Needless to say, my stress level was extremely high.

However, six weeks prior to my due date I started having increased lower extremity swelling, my blood pressure was high, and I was spilling protein in my urine. These were all signs of preeclampsia, a potentially life threatening condition of pregnancy. My astute OB recognized these hallmark features and took me off work and two weeks later decided that the baby needed to be delivered ASAP. Therefore, I was immediately scheduled for induction of labor.

Now, if you have not ever been induced for labor, let me tell you that it is not pleasant. In natural labor, contractions gradually increase in intensity. With medication-induced contractions, you go from 0 to 10 level pain fairly quickly. I wanted so desperately to go as long as possible without an epidural for pain. I was fine until I wasn’t.

n If you have not ever been induced for labor, let me tell you that it is not pleasant.

I remember that moment like it was yesterday. I called for the nurse and I said I needed the anesthesiologist right away. The nurse called for the doctor and my epidural was placed within a short amount of my time. I fell in love with the anesthesiologist at that moment and told him I would forever call him “Dr. Feel Good” because he made me feel so good!

I then rested for what felt like about an hour. I woke up and just felt differently. I called for the nurse again and

Dr. Valerie Yerger, founder of the African American Tobacco Control Leadership Council (AATCLC), spoke in 2019 at the Press Club in Washington, D.C. during a briefing called “The Plight of African Americans and Mentholated Tobacco Products.” Last week, her organization joined the National Medical Association and Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) in filing a lawsuit against the FDA for not issuing a final rule banning menthol cigarettes.

Darian Wigfall, the former director of operations for the FarFetched music label,

utive director of St. Paul Episcopal Church in the Carondelet neighborhood. As

member of the Metropolitan Congregations United (MCU) AirWatch STL program, Wigfall is helping

tal racism in the region.

Photo by Brian Munoz / St. Louis Public Radio

Photo courtesy of ASH

Denise HooksAnderson

FDA

Continued from A8 conference announcing the lawsuit happened on Tuesday, April 2. This is the second lawsuit in the ongoing struggle to ban menthol cigarettes.

Christopher Leung of Leung Law PLLC will represent the AATCLC, ASH, and NMA. The three health organizations are pursuing legal action for the Biden Administration and the FDA for failing to issue the ban.

The previous delay happened in December 2023, and they set the next deadline to March 2024. The White House did not make an announcement nor share an update before March was over. There is no apparent reason for this delay; many are frustrated with the two entities hindering.

“We have evidence

that shows how harmful menthol is. It’s quite frustrating for something that makes complete sense when you look at how health disparities disproportionately impact African Americans. We are not taking action on it,” said Dr. Yolanda Lawson, president of the National Medical Association.

“It’s very frustrating that the FDA themselves have on record what they think is the science and the law behind this. The fact that it has taken not one but two lawsuits from non-governmental organizations to pass this public health rule is really sad,” said Kelsey RomeoStuppy, managing attorney of Action on Smoking and Health. In 2020, the first lawsuit was filed against the FDA. That case involved the FDA determining whether or not to add menthol to the

list to ban characterizing flavors in cigarettes. After the science and evidence were presented, the FDA determined to add menthol to the list, and the health organizations withdrew their lawsuit. The result of that case was the FDA

proposing the rule in 2022. The current lawsuit concerns the FDA’s future obligation to issue the final rule. Leung explains that the menthol cigarette ban went through the complete rule-making process. Now, The FDA has a

responsibility to proceed with this rule. Suppose the health organizations win the lawsuit and the rule advances. In that case, tobacco companies will have 90 days to remove all menthol cigarettes from shelves.

“The FDA already possesses all it needs to pass a rule. It’s had a draft rule, open hearings for the community and, unfortunately, the tobacco industry, and all the time it needed. The FDA gave themselves several deadlines, but now we are in April 2024. We are now asking the court to make the FDA move forward,” said Romeo-Stuppy. The FDA menthol cigarette ban could save thousands of lives nationwide. If menthol cigarettes are taken off the market, 654,000 lives can be saved over the next 40 years, according to Tobacco-.

AirWatch

Continued from A8

Report by WashU said the report gave the organization the starting point to start the work in monitoring the air.

Congregations with which MCU has partnered have registered concerns about air quality, asthma, chronic breathing issues, and illegal dumping.

Neighborhoods that are impacted the most, according to Gutzler, are north St. Louis, north St. Louis County, and parts of south St. Louis. The report shows Black children in St. Louis make roughly 10 times more

Anderson

Continued from A8 told her that I thought she needed to check me. She told me that this was my first pregnancy and I probably had not progressed that much but nevertheless she would check me. She put her gloves on, checked to see how far dilated I was, looked up at me with wide eyes and said “don’t

emergency room visits for asthma each year than white children.

Black children make more than 42 emergency room visits per 1,000 children, compared to less than four visits per 1,000 children for their white counterparts. Also, most of the City’s air pollution sources are in neighborhoods of color, and more building demolitions – which create harmful dust that may contain asbestos and lead – occur in majority-Black neighborhoods.

Gutzler says areas that experience more traffic, and less greenery are more likely to be paralleled with the health statistics of residents

push,” the baby’s head was crowning. She scurried to prepare the room and called for the OB, and one push later my five-pound, six-ounce baby girl was born.

My pregnancy outcome was successful.

impacted by low air quality.

MCU board member

Barbara Johnson helped her church, Our Lady of Holy Cross in the Baden neighborhood, get an air monitor. Johnson believes worshippers and residents of the Baden neighborhood suffer from the impact of low air quality.

“Everywhere we are is our environment and it should be the healthiest it can be,” she said.

“Our voices and presences need to be louder.”

Johnson added that environmentalists need to be firmer when fighting for environmental justice work.

The 2019 report shows that a large number of

Black neighborhoods experience most of the city’s illegal trash dumping. Other data include that Black children in the City of St. Louis are 2.4 times more likely than white children to test positive for lead in their blood and account for more than 70% of children suffering from lead poisoning. Johnson feels there is no safe space anymore.

But all is not lost, the annual MCU community resource report for 20232024 shows that the organization raised $150,000 for the AirWatch STL program. Last year they collected 326 signatures for the Air Permit Reform Petition, and 100 signatures were collected for the

Air Monitoring Network Plan. Over 100 surveys were collected for cleanup days. Wigfall recommends more communities should become stronger neighbors–he suggests going to the plants and speaking to those in charge. Ask about the chemicals/products and ways to make them safer for the environment.

“Show them data, tell them stories of those who have been impacted by the factory,” he said.

If they still won’t listen, “Boycott them if they’re not compromising.”

What’s next in this matter is waiting for the FDA to respond to the lawsuit. Dr. Yerger and Dr. Lawson encourage the general public to call their local congressional representatives to push the White House to advance the rule. All health organizations involved in the lawsuit want everyone to pay attention to this because it could mean the most significant step in protecting Black lives from health disparities.

“When you talk about making a healthy Black America, you pay attention to this lawsuit because it revolves around creating healthier communities. When you look at healthcare costs, preventable disease, and disparities, this is an important component in the fight against eliminating health disparities,” said Dr. Lawson.

Kids health on the go

Keisha Lee, Annie Malone president and CEO, and Tesh Jewell, BJC vice president of ambulatory and clinical support, snipped the ribbon for the new Healthy Kids Express on Thursday, April 18, 2024, at Annie Malone Children and Family Services. From left are Kel Ward, St. Louis Children’s Hospital manager of community relations (blue suit); Lisa Glover Jones, Children’s Hospital manager of community health; Lee, Jewell, and Northwoods Mayor Sharon Pace (pink jacket).

Unfortunately, not all women can say that, particularly if you are Black. And before you start saying in your mind that things worked out for me because I was a doctor, there is plenty of evidence that says differently. Status, income, fame and education have not shielded Black women from maternal disparities. Just ask Serena Williams.

maternal health disparities such as bias, structural racism, and access to quality healthcare.

Compared to white women, Black women are three times more likely to die from pregnancyrelated causes. Per the CDC, more than 80% of pregnancy related deaths are preventable. Multiple factors contribute to Black

To eliminate these disparities in Black women, multiple entities such as family members, providers, hospital systems, and government must work together. For instance, family members could accompany their pregnant loved one to their visits. This allows the patient to listen more effectively to

Wigfall plans to get more people involved in environmental justice. Board member Johnson plans to connect with more clergy members, and survey pastors about the concerns of the communities they serve. MCU participated in this year’s annual Earth Day Festival, MCU congregations collected signatures for the ‘Get Out The Lead’ petition. The statewide petition is to help get kids in grades K-12 tested for lead poisoning and remediated.

the provider and allows the guest to take notes and ask questions along with the patient. Provider responsibility is to recognize their own bias and subsequently work with local organizations to learn more about the community in which they serve. Building trust, acknowledging the patient as the expert on their bodies, and providing education should be the standard of care.

“Environmental justice is a great opportunity for people of different backgrounds to come together,” said Gutzler.

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

A resource-rich country like ours should be ashamed that it allows a segment of our community like our Black women, to suffer and die unnecessarily. The call to action is simple: Black mothers deserve to see their babies grow up.

Denise HooksAnderson, MD, FAAFP can be reached at yourhealthmatters@stlamerican.com

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American

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

British-Nigerian Doctor and Emergency Helicopter Pilot Olamide Orekunrin

Learning Standards:

Background Information:

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

An entrepreneur is a person who creates and organizes a business. Famous entrepreneurs include Oprah Winfrey, who created O Magazine, Harpo productions, Oxygen Network TV, and much more. Debbi Fields created Mrs. Fields cookies which are sold in malls and supermarkets. Henry Ford was the entrepreneur who created the assembly line and Ford Motor Company. Madame C. J. Walker was the first African-American female entrepreneur who became a millionaire in 1905 when she invented products to soften and smooth African-American hair. Entrepreneurs need to be critical thinkers and problem solvers. They need to be able to work well with others. Entrepreneurs need to be creative, but they also need to be able to read and write well so that they can present their ideas and communicate with others. Finally, entrepreneurs need to be patient and persistent as they work to develop their product.

Heavy Moving!

In this experiment, you will apply problem solving skills to try to move an object (or a person) across a bare floor without carrying it.

Materials Needed:

• Piece of Plywood • Marbles • Rope • Balloons

w You are only able to use the materials listed here… nothing else!

e Develop a plan and try to move your object. Revise your plan as needed.

Extension: Try to move your object across a carpeted floor. How did you need to change your strategy?

Learning Standards: I can use trial and error to complete an experiment. I can make observations, analyze results, and draw conclusions.

16

Converting Weights!

v You can buy candy for $5.00 a pound or for 25 cents per ounce. Which is cheaper?

b Convert your weight to ounces. ________

Learning Standards: I can add, subtract, multiply, and divide to solve a problem. I can convert units of weight.

Olamide Orekunrin was born in London. Her parents were Nigerian and they chose her name based on its meaning. “Ola” means “wealth” in the Nigerian language. She attended the Hull York Medical School in London, where she graduated at the young age of 21 as a medical doctor. While she was studying medicine, she was also earning her helicopter pilot license, with a specialty in aviation medicine. She earned the Japanese MEXT scholarship which allowed her to continue her studies in Tokyo, Japan. Unfortunately, Orekunrin’s sister died due to lack of prompt medical attention. Orekunrin put her training together to form the Flying Doctors Nigeria (FDN) Limited in 2007. This was the first air ambulance service offered in West Africa. FDN offers medical evacuation services, remote site clinic management, first-aid training and other medical solutions. It saves hundreds of lives each year, especially for those working in the oil and gas industry.

She is a member of the American Academy of Aesthetic Surgeons and the British Medical Association. She is also a member of the American College of Emergency Physicians. In 2012, she received the This Day Award. One year later, she was one of the “Young Global Leaders” listed by the World Economic Forum. She has also received the Mouldbreaker’s Award, the Vanguard WOW Award, and the New Generation Leader for Africa. Orekunrin has published two medical textbooks and several medical journals and is also a TED Fellow. Orekunrin believes in charity and helping others. She works with leaders to help improve health care in Africa. She is one of the most successful business women in Lagos, Nigeria. For more information, including links to Olamide’s blog and videos, visit: http://www.lionessesofafrica.com/lioness-ola-orekunrin

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

c An average car weighs 4,000 pounds. How many tons does an average car weigh? ________

Eating

It

Iron helps carry oxygen to parts of your body in the form of hemoglobin. Not having enough can lead to iron deficiency and symptoms such as weakness and fatigue. Examples of iron rich foods include red meat, fish, chickpeas, tofu, beans and lentils.

connections.

Ranger Bob, of Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge, teaches participating students safe archery skills during The St. Louis American’s Summer Science Academy, held at Little Creek Nature Area.

Photo by Cathy Sewell

How to start or set up your small business for success

By Mikal

For many, owning a business is a symbol of the American dream. It can be exciting to imagine becoming your own boss, working for yourself and offering employment to others – all helping build financial security for your family and community.

Building a successful business requires a solid plan and lots of help along the way, however, many budding entrepreneurs soon discover that having a great idea is just the beginning of their small business journey.

Mikal Quarles, head of community business strategies for Chase Business Banking, shares tips for setting up a small business, what to do, what not to do, and what to watch out for when starting your entrepreneurship journey.

1.Before even starting your small business, what are the top considerations for aspiring entrepreneurs?

Entrepreneurs run the gamut from someone with a side gig, to someone jumping into the deep end with a business acquisition. Here are a few things that I feel apply to any entrepreneur: Passion does not convert to currency but value does. Make sure to confirm there is a demand for what you are interested in doing and a need that hasn’t been met.

Everyone doesnt want to be a CEO. Some entrepreneurs like the freedom of being paid for services rendered. We need to create different swim lanes so business owners understand their journey and how to create milestones along the way.

Your credit is the business credit. There is no other place else to look to gain understanding on how business responsibilities will be managed.

There is so much support out there, dont take this journey by yourself. Join an industry association, chamber or other resource group. Connect with others having similar challenges and remember that “Iron Sharpens Iron.”

2.Where should entrepreneurs begin to make their small business idea a reality?

Deciding to start a small business can be an exciting time. Aspiring entrepreneurs should set themselves up for success by having a solid plan before taking the leap.

A good business plan proves your idea is viable and helps you set important goals that reduce risks and avoid potential pitfalls. Here are some questions you should ask yourself before you get started:

Why do I want to start this business? What’s my reasoning or inspiration?

How does my business stand out from the competition?

What is my unique value proposition?

Who are my target customers?

How can I reach them?

Who is already on my management team? What gaps do I need to fill?

How can my business make a profit? How soon will it break even?

When I moved my family from Chicago to Los Angeles I couldn’t get to my mailbox without turning on my GPS. Just think of your business plan as your GPS.

3. What are some pitfalls for entrepreneurs and small business owners to avoid when starting their business?

There are many pitfalls that entrepreneurs can get caught in when starting a business. The most common reasons businesses fail are due to lack of capital, lack of market impact or need, unresearched pricing (too high or low), explosive growth that drains your capital and stiff competition.

To avoid these, you should have a plan to navigate the ups and downs of

entrepreneurship and a team of trusted advisors to provide expertise. All business owners should have a CPA/bookkeeper, attorney, insurance broker and a business banker they can rely on. Lastly, pivot when you see the markets have changed.

4.How can small businesses prepare for future growth?

We have talked a lot about planning but the best way to prepare for future growth is to plan for it. Growth can happen organically, through strategic partnerships or acquisitions, or through increased marketing efforts but usually doesn’t happen by accident. You have to be intentional about your growth plans for your business and take the steps to set you and your business up properly for success.

Part of planning for growth is securing the capital you need to fuel the growth when you are ready.

Often that means securing financing when you don’t need it so you have access to it when you do. But don’t forget the most critical aspect of growth…your people. Surround yourself with people that are smarter than you and trust that as you expand they will prove it!

5.What are some of the resources available to help support aspiring and current small business owners with their business needs?

There are a lot of resources – both in person and online – a business owner can tap into to help them understand trends and to see around corners. For example, business owners can head to Chase.com/ Business to see a range of free articles, courses and tools that gear business owners with everything they need to help start, run and grow their business. I also lead a consulting program for entrepreneurs, where business owners can receive one-on-one coaching from an experienced senior business consultant. We now offer the program in 21 U.S. cities and have mentored over 5,000 minority business owners since 2021.

Launching your business can be the first step toward a bright financial future, but all entrepreneurs need a great team and a great plan to make that success possible.

If you’re hoping to start your own business, start planning today, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your local financial institution to get the help you need to make it happen.

Mikal Quarles is managing director, head of Diverse Business Strategies, Business Banking at JPMorgan Chase & Co.

Supreme Court sides with Black St. Louis police officer

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire

The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled in favor of a female police sergeant from St. Louis, making it easier for workers to pursue employment discrimination claims related to job transfers.

The court sided with Sgt. Jatonya Clayborn Muldrow, who alleged she was reassigned to a less prestigious role within the St. Louis Police Department because of her gender.

Muldrow, a Black woman, sued the department under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act after being transferred from the intelligence division in 2017. In her previous role, she had been deputized as an FBI agent, worked a steady weekday schedule, and was involved in investigating public corruption and human trafficking cases. However, her new assignment lacked the same prestige and benefits.

Despite maintaining her pay, Muldrow lost her FBI privileges, had to work patrol, and was assigned weekend shifts. A male sergeant who had previously See OFFICER, B2

The court sided with Sgt. Jatonya Clayborn Muldrow, who alleged she was reassigned to a less prestigious role within the St. Louis Police Department because of her gender.

Kimberly Beck, Eleanor Higgins to be honored

Kimberly Beck and Eleanor Higgins will be honored at the 2024 St. Louis Women of Achievement Award Luncheon on Tuesday, May 14. Beck, who will receive the Community Welfare award, has experience working to improve the lives of unhoused persons throughout the region. She counsels individuals and families with addiction and mental health challenges through her work with The Salvation Army. She serves on the boards of St. Louis County Continuum of Care, Behavioral Health Network, Ivy Alliance Foundation and several other boards. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. and the National Council of Negro Women, Inc. Higgins, who will receive the Youth Enrichment award, is committed to excellence, empowerment and strategic partnering for greater community impact. Her legacy of servant leadership is embodied in her decade of volunteering and board membership with Mathews-Dickey; three decades of service and local, regional, and national leadership roles in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.; and a lifetime of dedicated service through church and other organizations.

Maclin inducted into Amateur Baseball HOF

Lonnie Maclin

Former St. Louis Cardinals outfielder and first baseman Lonnie Maclin has been inducted into the Greater St. Louis Amateur Baseball Hall of Fame. Maclin spent seven years in the Cardinals farm system beginning in 1987. Maclin attended Ritenour High School in St. Louis, where at various times he played baseball, basketball, and football, wrestled, and ran track. He was drafted by the Cardinals in the 3rd round of the 1986 amateur draft.

Maclin would go on to play for the Amarillo (Texas) Dillas in 1995 and served as player-manager in 2001. He served as manager only the following season.

Quarles Sponsored by JPMorgan Chase

Christian T. Gordon

Kimberly Beck

Photo August de Richelieu / Pexels

Eleanor Higgins

Sgt. Jatonya Clayborn Muldrow sued after transfer

Mikal Quarles

Lincoln students present research at Missouri Academy of Science Conference

St. Louis American

Two Lincoln University of Missouri students presented their research at the Missouri Academy of Science Conference, hosted at Missouri Western State University on April 12-13, 2024.

Graduating senior Samuel Ingoli, a biology major, and junior Travis Barrett presented their research at the science conference.

Ingoli, along with coauthor Dr. Manish Singh, assistant professor of chemistry, presented their research titled, “LateStage Diversification of Bioactive Molecules Using a Simple Hydrazine Reagents.” Ingoli’s research was completed under Dr. Singh’s supervision.

Ingoli and Singh wrote, “Late-stage diversification involves modifying, introducing, or transforming a functional group in the final synthetic step to efficiently produce various analogs for studying structure-function relationships.

Officer

Continued from B1 worked with Muldrow’s male supervisor took over for her.

The central issue before the justices was whether Title VII protects against all discriminatory job transfers or requires employees to demonstrate that the involuntary move resulted in a ‘significant disadvantage,’ such as

This technique holds significant importance, particularly in the fields of drug discovery and chemical biology.” “We have developed a simple method for diversifying and modifying car-

harm to career prospects or changes in salary or rank.

In a crucial clarification, Justice Elena Kagan, in her opinion for the court, pointed out that some lower courts had used the incorrect higher standard. She stated that while an employee must demonstrate some harm from a forced transfer to succeed, they need not meet a ‘significance test.’ Kagan emphasized that Muldrow’s allegations met the court’s new standard

bonyl and hydroxyl groups using commercially available hydrazine reagents. We applied this method to synthesize analogs of two important medications: atenolol, a beta blocker primarily used to

“with room to spare” despite her rank and pay remaining unchanged, and her ability to advance to other positions. Legal experts said the decision could lower the bar for employees to proceed with discrimination claims in court, potentially allowing lawsuits that failed under the previous standard to succeed.

Although the court’s judgment was unanimous, Justices Clarence

Samuel Ingoli presented his research titled, “LateStage Diversification of Bioactive Molecules

Using a Simple Hydrazine Reagents,” during the Missouri Academy of Science Conference, hosted at Missouri Western State University on April 12-13, 2024.

treat high blood pressure and heart-related chest pain, and azidothymidine (AZT), which is used in the prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDS.”

Barrett, also a biology major, presented his

Thomas, Samuel A. Alito Jr., and Brett M. Kavanaugh each wrote separately to explain their differing views on the decision’s impact. Justice Alito doubted that the decision would make a meaningful difference, suggesting that lower court judges should continue their current practices. Justice Kavanaugh indicated that he would not require any separate showing of harm, stating that “the

research titled, “The Risk of a New Henrietta Lacks? Increasing Awareness About the Impacts on the Consumer Because of Direct-To-Consumer Genetic Testing in a U.S.Centric Setting.”

discrimination is harm” under federal law. Thomas also asserted there was “little practical difference” between the court’s new test and the current practice of appeals court judges.

Barrett’s research was completed under the supervision of Dr. Christine E. Boston, associate professor of anthropology and sociology. Boston is also the incoming president of the Missouri Academy of Science, a position she will begin in June 2024.

“The Missouri Academy of Science Conference is a great place for students to present their research in a friendly and collegial setting,” Dr. Boston says.

“Students, including Ingoli and Barrett, had the opportunity to network with peers, faculty and professionals at other universities and institutions across the state, providing them the opportunity to expand their networks and engage with others for future research of professional opportunities.”

The Missouri Academy of Science fosters public interest in scientific matters and promotes cooperation between the scientific interests of Missouri.

The Supreme Court’s ruling in favor of Muldrow not only clarifies that Title VII does not require courts to differentiate between job transfers causing significant disadvantages and those causing lesser harm but also significantly strengthens protections against employment discrimination based on sex and other protected characteristics. Experts further opined that the landmark decision makes it easier for workers like Muldrow to pursue legal remedies for discriminatory job transfers, thereby profoundly impacting workplace diversity, equity, and inclusion programs.

Photo courtesy of Lincoln University

n “He wants to be great. He’s doing everything he can to be great.”

– Miami Dolphins GM Chris Grier on QB Tua Tagovailoa

Sports

InSIdE SportS

By Earl Austin Jr.

On the right track

Some of state’s best return to track and field in ‘24

Spring means the running, jumping and throws that thrill crowds at area track meets have returned. As the weather warms, the competition heats up in the lanes to possible individual and team state titles. Here is a look at some of the top boys’ and girls’ athletes who are making it happen on the track.

Boys

Malik Allen (Edwardsville): An elite jumper who was the IHSA Class 3 state champion in the triple jump last season. He recently broke the school record in the event.

Joseph Anderson (Westminster): A University of Iowa football recruit who was a Class 3 state runner up in the triple jump and was fifth in the long jump last season.

Kenneth Buchanan (East St. Louis): A senior sprinter who returns after earning IHSA Class 2A All-State honors in the 100- and 200-meter dashes.

Cameron Cason (Francis Howell): A talented junior jumper who returns after finishing third in the Class 5 triple jump last season.

Jackson Carter (Fort Zumwalt East): A two-

22, 2024.

sport spring standout who excels in both track and baseball. He was the state runner up in the Class 4 100-meter dash last season.

Dwayne Foley (Ladue): An All-State basketball player who was an All-State performer in the long jump last season.

Brandon Johnson

(McCluer):

Antwon McKay (Cardinal Ritter): A standout quarterback on the Lions’ state championship football team is also a standout hurdler on the track.

Jacob Oliphant (SLUH): A senior hurdler who earned All-State honors with his fifth-place finish in the Class 5 300meter intermediate hurdles last season.

Melvin Sledge (Hazelwood East): A junior sprinter who was a Class 4 state champion in the 400-meter dash and a runner up in the 200.

SportS EyE

With Alvin A. Reid

Girls

Natalie Barnard (Lafayette): The University of Missouri recruit was the Class 5 state champion in the 3,200-meter run last season.

Aniyah Brown (Cardinal Ritter): The Ohio State University recruit has been one of the state’s elite sprinters since

she began her career as a freshman four years ago.

A’Laji Bradley (Pattonville): The senior sprinter was the Class 5 state runner up in the 200and 400-meter dashes last season.

Josie Baker (Kirkwood): The middle distance and distance standout was a Class 5 state champion in the 1,600 and a state runner up in the 800 last season.

Aaliyah Elliott (John Burroughs): The senior standout returns as one of the state’s top hurdlers and jumpers this season.

Skyye Lee (Parkway Central): The senior standout was the top individual at last year’s Class 4 state meet by sweeping championships in the hurdles and sprints.

Charlye Moody (Cardinal Ritter): A senior sprinter who returns after finishing fourth in the 200and 400-meter dashes last season.

Ashley Rusthoven (Fort Zumwalt East): The North Dakota State recruit returns as one of the top returning athletes in the shot put and discus.

Kyndall Spain (Cardinal Ritter): The junior hurdler is the returning Class 5 state champion in the 300-meter low hurdles. She also finished second in the 100-meter high hurdles.

My wonderful times with Whitey Herzog

Back in the day, a black-and-white television set was rolled into elementary school classrooms around the St. Louis area in October. Students and teachers watched the World Series.

Yes, some World Series games were played on weekday afternoons. As a third-grade student and baseball lover at Robinson Elementary School, we watched two games during the 1968 World Series. The Detroit Tigers came back from a 3-1 game deficit to win the title at Busch Stadium on Oct. 10. It was a Thursday.

watched with utter joy how Herzog transformed a mediocre team living off past glory into a sensation. It was called “Whitey Ball,” and it was amazing. It was about the batting average, the tight defense, the stolen base, and the masterful use of the pitching staff.

Alvin A.

Throughout the 1969 season I had certainly followed the Cardinals attempt to repeat as National League champions. The title would go to the New York Mets. The Miracle Mets.

The Mets would beat the favored Baltimore Orioles in five games to win the World Series.

I was 9 years old.

Whitey Herzog, an architect of that Mets team as player personnel director, was 37. After managing in Kansas City for three seasons in the late 1970s, Herzog joined the Cardinals in 1980.

As a Cardinals fan, I

St. Louis won the 1982 World Series in seven games over the Milwaukee Brewers. I was in college. A year later I began my journalism career. In 1991 I was a member of the inaugural staff of USA TODAY Baseball Weekly. It was there I met a gentleman from St. Louis named Rob Rains. He was the Baseball Weekly writer who covered the National League. By the late 1990s we had both returned to St. Louis. Rains, a prolific author who had covered the Cardinals for the St. Louis Globe-Democrat during the Herzog era, offered me the opportunity to co-author a book in 2001. The book is called “Whitey’s Boys.” We contacted players and coaches from the 1982 season to update Cardinals fans on what had transpired during

the two decades since the World Series.

Herzog, Rains and I had several book signings and two golf tournament appearances during the fall of 2002. I had the opportunity to spend hours with Herzog. We talked about baseball, but he was knowledgeable on so many other topics. He hailed from New Athens, Illinois but he was a man of the world.

He [Whitey] was as funny as any man I’ve met. He was as courteous as any gentleman who rose to the heights of his chosen profession.

The Cardinals were taking on the Arizona Diamondbacks in the NL playoffs that season. As we signed books and greeted people, we also analyzed what was going on during those games. Herzog was managing and I fancied myself as his bench coach. He was more brilliant at baseball than stated in any story written about him in the last week. He was as funny as

any man I’ve met. He was as courteous as any gentleman who rose to the heights of his chosen profession. He wanted to know as much about me as I did about him. He was genuine. He was beloved. I know why, and I know why from being up close. Herzog died at the age of 92 on Tuesday, April 16, 2024. He is a member of the Baseball Hall of

Fame and the St. Louis Cardinals Hall of Fame. He’s in the Alvin Reid Hall of Fame – and trust me that’s a hard place to get into.

The Reid Roundup

Whitey Herzog had no problem with fielding Black players, regardless of how some St. Louisans felt about that. Just ask Ozzie Smith, Lonnie Smith, George Hendrick Willie McGee Vince Coleman, Terry Pendleton and so many more African Americans who were champions with the Cardinals… Centerfielder Victor Scott II was awarded his minor leagues Gold Glove last week in Busch Stadium – and was sent back to Triple A Memphis the next day…It was Jordan Walker bobble head night last Friday and Normarene Merritt, his grandmother, threw the ceremonial first pitch. After a promising rookie season, Walker had struggled through 19 games, hitting .164 with no home runs and four RBI… Bradley Beal scored 15 points in his playoff debut with the Phoenix Suns. But the host Minnesota Timberwolves thumped the Suns 120-95.

Earl Austin Jr.

Reid

Cardinal Ritter College Prep freshman shot putter Trent Price taking his best shot during a home meet Monday, Apr.

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American

A senior jumper who is one of the best in the state in the high jump. He won the Class 4 state championship in the event last season.

SLHA’s Clinton-Peabody project gets federal boost

The St. Louis Housing Authority (SLHA) has been awarded over $1.6 million in funding through the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2024. It will support SLHA’s redevelopment of the historic ClintonPeabody Apartments.

The CAA provides direct investments for homeless prevention, public health, economic revitalization projects, and other priorities, across St. Louis.

“Redeveloping the Clinton-Peabody Apartments is a priority for the St. Louis Housing Authority that requires significant investments,” said Interim Executive Director Latasha Barnes.

“This funding will enable us to continue our work in redeveloping the outdated community to better serve the needs of current and future residents.”

Located on approximately 24 acres in the historic Peabody-Darst-Webbe neighborhood, Clinton-Peabody is the oldest public housing development within the SLHA portfolio.

The property, consisting of 358 units in 31 buildings, has served as an affordable housing solution for extremely low-income families since 1942. The future development will consist of a mixed income and mixed-use development that meets the needs of modern families.

For more information about the Clinton-Peabody redevelopment, visit clintonpeabody.org.

Fed Reserve Bank fourth annual Minority Networking event on May 9

The Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis will host its fourth annual Minority Networking event from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 9, 2024 at the Bank’s Locust Street and Broadway downtown location.

Attendees will have an opportunity to network and learn about a wide variety of career paths at the St. Louis Fed. The event will feature details about the following topics:

• job openings

• career paths

• workplace culture

• diversity, equity and inclusion

• community development

• internal employee networks

• supplier diversity

Both virtual and in-person attendees will watch a short presentation about working at the bank at 6 p.m. Afterwards, all attendees are invited to continue networking until the conclusion of the event. Those wishing to attend in person at the St. Louis Fed, located at Locust Street and Broadway in downtown St. Louis, or virtually must register by May 1.

“It was great because I got to meet with people outside of the interview process,” said Brooke Loving, who attended the event in 2022 and was later hired as an associate instructional designer at the bank’s Center for Learning Innovation. More information about the bank’s commitment to workforce diversity can be found on the diversity, equity and inclusion section of its website.

For more about careers and working at the St. Louis Fed, visit the Career Central webpage.

Board of E&A approves Mayor Jones’ budget proposal; on to BOA

The Board of Estimate and Apportionment, which consists of Mayor Tishaura O. Jones, Comptroller Darlene Green, and President of

the Board of Aldermen Megan Green, has unanimously approved the recommendation of Mayor Jones’s FY2025 budget to the Board of

Aldermen. The budget goes to the Board of Aldermen for consideration and approval.

“This year’s budget prioritizes the fiscal

health of St. Louis while ensuring that city departments can continue to deliver essential services that improve the lives of our residents,” said

Jones. The Board of Aldermen has until June 30, 2024 to approve the budget. If it fails to approve the budget by

that time, the budget as passed by the Board of E&A will go into effect on July 1, 2024.

Brooke Loving

Latasha Barnes is serving as St. Louis Housing Authority interim executive director.

Photo courtesy of Community Builders Network of Metro St. Louis

CITY Block Party lineup announced

NandoSTL among headliners for pre-game concerts that feature homegrown talent

By American Staff

The St. Louis City SC pre-match tradition that brings together the community and celebrates the intersection of music and soccer will return to Lou Fusz Plaza next month. CITY Block Party has revealed its extensive roster for the 2024-25 concert series that kicks off next month.

“Culture is the thing that is so rich here in St. Louis,” St. Louis City SC Chief Brand Architect Lee Broughton told The American in February. “It is a real privilege to have a role in making that confluence where we all come together and look at the talent that is here.”

n “Last season, we welcomed tens of thousands of fans of all ages to our CITY Block Parties, which are the best way to get the party started early on match days.”

- Matt Sebek St. Louis CITY SC’s Chief Experience Officer

The entertainment lineup will feature national, regional and local musicians – including the club’s “Homegrown” artists. A collaboration between CITY SC and Grammynominated St. Louis native rap star Smino, the Homegrown program shines a spotlight on St. Louis’ music scene by amplifying five emerging local artists who highlight the diversity of talent in the region.

“These artists are super talented and represent the many sounds of St. Louis. All bring the good energy and vibes,” Smino said of Brock Seals, Hazmat, Lani Rose, Matt Jordan and Tonina. “Music is my life, and it is important to me to support my crib, give back and inspire. Working with CITY is really special, and we will give these artists a new platform as they rise up in the music world.”

The five selected artists participating in CITY SC’s Homegrown program are taking part in a discovery session with

Heather Beal-Himes Among 2024 Saint Louis Visionary Awards honorees

By Kenya Vaughn The St. Louis American

Smino, where he will provide valuable insights and expertise on how they can continue to build their careers and grow their art; perform at a 2024 CITY Block Party; perform at the CITY SC-sponsored Music at the Intersection festival kickoff at The Big Top on Friday, Sept. 13; and be featured in CITY SC-led spotlights. “I see how hard it can be for St. Louis artists to break through and get national attention,” Seals said. “So, for an organization like this that cares about the people – the artists – who are really in the city, it’s like a breath of fresh air. It keeps you

inspired to dream further. And that’s how it should be.”

The pregame concerts begin Saturday, May 11 and continue through October 5. Also among the headlining talent is St. Louis native NandoSTL, who was signed to Grammy Award-winning music star T-Pain’s Nappy Boy Entertainment label in 2022.

“Last season, we welcomed tens of thousands of fans of all ages to our CITY Block Parties, which are the best way to

What would global culture look like without the contributions of East St. Louis? Thank God we will never know.

It was the “City of Champions” that groomed Miles Davis into a music icon – and where Ike met Tina. Hip hop has East St. Louis airwaves to thank for its introduction to commercial radio. Before they were filmmakers, Reginald and Warrington Hudlin had their educational and creative talents nurtured through The Katherine Dunham Center for the Performing Arts.

gotta Love it

Love Bank Park reopening celebrated on Cherokee

Restauranteur William Porter spent years thinking about how to transform two vacant Cherokee Street lots into a recreational public space for the neighborhood.

In 2015, he started heading across the street from his restaurant, Master Pieza, to Cherokee Street and Nebraska Avenue to clean the lots. When the first basketball hoop was installed that year, he wrote

“Love

saw empty space that had a bunch of

like that,” Porter said. “I just started cleaning and as I’m cutting down trees and stuff, people were willing to even chip in.” After years of planning and development, Porter and other Cherokee Street leaders and community members reopened Love Bank Park Sunday afternoon to play basketball, chess, hear live music and eat.

Developers started renovating the public space in 2022. The $1.3 million projYou

ect was funded primarily by donations from business owners, community members and the Cherokee Street Community Improvement District. Incarnate Word Foundation and the Missouri Department of Conservation also supported the project. Designers from Patterhn Ives were the lead architects. The space includes the region’s first water-permeable basketball court that directs water into the ground to prevent sewage overflow. The community improvement district received a grant from the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer

District’s Project Clear initiative for the park.

“I think that when you have basketball courts, that says to people of color, and especially black people that you are welcome here, and you have a place here, and we invite you,” Alderwoman Alisha Sonnier, who represents the ward where the park is located said. “This is a very diverse community, it’s a community of color. And I liked that we leaned into

A generation after the Hudlins attended, The Dunham Center was where a five-year-old Heather Beal-Himes (then Beal) stepped foot on the path to her destiny. “My teacher, Ruby Streate, told me, ‘Your mission – your purpose in life – is to continue the legacy of Katherine Dunham,’” Beal-Himes said.

n “Some of the women that I admire most have received a Saint Louis Visionary Award. So, to have my name listed alongside theirs is amazing.”

- Heather Beal-Himes

On Monday, she will be celebrated for her world-renowned work within the field of dance. BealHimes is among the 2024 cohort for the Saint Louis Visionary Awards, which happens on April 29 at Grand Center’s Sun Theater.

“Some of the women that I admire most have received a Saint Louis Visionary Award,” Beal-Himes said. “So, to have my name listed alongside theirs is amazing.”

Beal-Himes will be recognized as this year’s Outstanding Working Artist. She’ll share the spotlight with Elizabeth Mannen Berges (Major Contributor to the Arts), Shawna Flanigan (Outstanding Teaching Artist), Meredith McKinley (Outstanding Arts Professional), Luisa Otero-Prada (Community Impact Artist) and Alexa Seda (Emerging Artist). “The great joy of this is lifting up women with these amazing stories, who are making change in our communities through the arts – and to share this gift,” Saint Louis Visionary Awards board member Sara Burke told The American in 2016.

Several prior recipients will surely be on hand to celebrate Beal-Himes and the 2024 Visionaries for the ceremony that will be hosted by Min Jung Kim, Saint Louis Art Museum’s Barbara B. Taylor

Photo by Wiley Price/St. Louis American NandoSTL at the Wall on Washington Mon. Jan 9, 2022. The emerging rap star and St. Louis native is among the headlining artists for St. Louis City SC’s CITY Block Party concert series that kicks off next month and continues through October.

Photo by Emily Woodbury / Courtesy St. Louis Public Radio Pacia Elaine Anderson, left, and Eric “Prospect” White, right, are two of the core leaders of Love Bank Park’s redevelopment.

Photo by Lois Ingrum

Heather Beal-Himes will be recognized as the Outstanding Working Artist at the 2024 Saint Louis Visionary Awards on Monday, April 29th at the Sun Theater in Grand Center.

CONCERTS AND LIVE SHOWS

Brittany Howard: What Now Tour

4/26/2024 8:00pm

The Pageant 6161 Delmar Blvd St. Louis, MO

$46.00 - $61.00

The Maze “All White” Experience 4/28/2024 5:00pm

The Maze “All White” Experience Backstreet Jazz & Blues Club

614 Westport Plaza Drive St. Louis, MO

$25.00 - $45.00

Free - Timeless Gospel Concert 4/27/2024 3:00pm

Free - Timeless Gospel Concert

The power of gospel music in person with special guests Stellar Award nominated Erica Reed and guitar legend Greg “Happy Guitar” Haynes. Sun Theater 3625 Grandel Square St. Louis, MO Free

The Legend Singers Choral Ensemble Spring Concert 4/28/2024 5:00pm

Back By Popular Demand: The Legend Singers Choral Ensemble returns to the Episcopal Church of St. Michael and St. George to present a spring concert. The program consists of Traditional arrangements of Spirituals, Jazz and Contemporary Arrangements of Spirituals as part of their 83rd Season of Performances. Choral Director: Maestro Dwayne A. Buggs, featuring Director Emeritus Dr. Doris Jones Wilson. Episcopal Church of St. Michael and St. George

STL Sites & Sounds

6345 Wydown Boulevard Clayton, MO Free

ART ACTIVITIES, EXHIBITS AND MUSEUMS

Dance performance by Pack Dance Company 4/26/2024 6:00pm

This two-part dance performance explores synchronicity between two exhibitions: Matisse and the Sea at the Saint Louis Art Museum and Paul Chan: Breathers at Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis, both of which feature Matisse’s Bathers and playful movements of shape and color. The first part featured a limited-seating performance at CAM around Chan’s Breathers series, and the second part on Friday will present an expanded performance at SLAM. Both pieces are conceived of and created and performed by Pack Dance Company, formerly Consuming Kinetics Dance Company.

Saint Louis Art Museum One Fine Arts Drive St. Louis, MO Free

RE: Deep Breathing 5/1/2024 6pm

This program takes inspiration from Paul Chan’s exhibition, Breathers, and includes guided breathwork with artist Simiya Sudduth; an exploration of the extraordinary breath control used by opera singers; and a discussion about the metaphor of breathing as creative social exchange, guided by Dr. Timothy Huffman.

Doors open at 5:30 pm.

Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis 3750 Washington Blvd St. Louis, MO

(314) 535-4660

Register at https://camstl.org/ event/re-deep-breathing or call (314) 535-4660

COMMUNITY

Cities in Harmony 4/27/2024 11am Belleville District 118 and other school districts in the surrounding area have collaborated to host Cities in Harmony, a family-centered inclusive event.

Southwestern Illinois Justice and Workforce Campus 2300 West Main Street Belleville, IL.

Brownpreneurs Entrepreneurship

Academy (BEA) 4/27/2024 11:00am

Networking, and learning

Interactive workshops, hear from successful entrepreneurs, and hands-on activities

St. Louis Community College - Forest Park 5600 Oakland Ave St. Louis, MO Free

Community Oral Health Event 4/27/2024 10:00am

The St. Louis Dental Center, in partnership with Affinia Healthcare, is pleased to present a family day of free dental and health screenings, vaccines (no outof-pocket costs), and WIC and Medicaid enrollment assistance –

in addition to food, face painting, music, and more.

St. Louis Half Marathon & Relay. St. Louis Dental Center 1500 Park Ave St. Louis, MO

Free AAPI Scavenger Hunt 5/1/2024

Learn about different Asian and Pacific Island countries in celebration of AAPI Heritage Month. Cliff Cave Branch 5430 Telegraph Rd. St. Louis, MO

RELIGION

Vigil of Remembrance 4/27/2024 11:00am to 12:30 PM.

The Crime Victim Center and the Homicide, Ministers & Community Alliance will host their 14th Annual vigil for families of homicide victims.

Saint Josephine Bakhita Church 2401 North Grand Blvd St. Louis, MO Free

Marian Middle School’s fundraising gala

Marian Magic 2024 4/27/2024 5:00pm-7:00pm

Marian Middle School is an all-girls Catholic school that provides students from low-income backgrounds with quality education, enrichment, and Graduate Support.

The Ferrara Theatre at the America’s Center Convention Complex 701 Convention Plaza St. Louis, MO

For tickets, go to https://e. givesmart.com/events/AuE/ or call 773-396-4416

Photo courtesy of CAM

An exploration of the extraordinary breath control used by opera singers; and a discussion about the metaphor of breathing as creative social exchange takes place at CAM on May 1. The program takes inspiration from Paul Chan’s exhibition, Breathers. Please register in advance.

By Barry Draper

The 1904 World’s Fair and Twilight Thursdays Return to the Missouri History Get Up and GO

Spring is the best time to savor all that St. Louis has to offer, from powerful performances to tasty traditions – and festivals galore! For more things to do in St. Louis, visit explorestlouis.com.

Cinco de Mayo Festival• May 4

Over the years, the Cinco de Mayo Festival on Cherokee Street has evolved into one of the largest and most diverse festivals in the St. Louis region, bringing more than 30,000 people together to celebrate the eclectic community in the surrounding area. Expect six blocks of festivities, including two stages and a lucha libre wrestling ring!

St. Louis Battlehawks

• May 4 and 19

At their first home game of the 2024 season, the St. Louis Battlehawks broke the attendance record for spring football –again! Let’s continue to show our support at home games next month. Ka-Kaw!

Laumeier Art Fair • May 10 to 12

For three days in May, you can shop for one-of-a-kind artwork, savor tasty food and drinks, enjoy live music and entertainment and get creative with hands-on activities at one of the most unique attractions in St. Louis. Laumeier Sculpture Park is one of the first and largest dedicated sculpture parks in the U.S. – and the perfect setting for this exciting event. Attracting more than 17,000 patrons annually, the Laumeier Art Fair showcases 150 juried artists from across the country, who exhibit work in 10 media categories.

Timbuktu! • May 15 to June 9

Opulent beyond man’s dreams, travelers died crossing the Sahara Desert in search of Timbuktu! Set against this exotic locale, the St. Louis Black Repertory Company presents the story of the Poet; his beautiful daughter, Marsinah; an evil Wazir of Police; his restless Wife of Wives, Lundanda; and The Mania of Mali, Bobo. While wandering incognito, Bobo meets Marsinah and instantly falls in love. Still, the twisted twine of fate must unravel in many thrilling and exciting ways before the two lovers can finally tie the knot.

Bacon Fest 2024 • May 19

Bacon lovers, rejoice! Alpha Brewing Co. is hosting a sizzling event on May 19. Tickets to Bacon Fest include all the

bacon and beer that you can consume –plus, live music from two bands.

Explore STL Fest

• May 22

Taking over Together Credit Union Plaza at Ballpark Village, Explore STL Fest will feature appearances and giveaways by beloved local attractions, entertainment venues, restaurants and hotels. This is your chance to be a tourist in your own town! Local media will broadcast live from the event, helping to spread the word about everything that makes St. Louis such a special destination. Festivities begin at 10 a.m.

St. Louis African Arts Festival

May 25 to 27

The St. Louis African Arts Festival aims to increase awareness of the global contributions that African people and people of African descent have made through artistic, cultural and educational programs. In its 33rd year, the festival is held at the World’s Fair Pavilion in Forest Park, drawing locals and visitors together to celebrate the rich and diverse cultures of African and African American people. Attendees can enjoy the African marketplace with arts and crafts, clothing and jewelry, alongside cultural demonstrations, traditional foods and African films.

MJ • May 28 to June 9

The music. The moves. The icon. Now, the unparalleled artistry of the greatest entertainer of all time comes to St. Louis as MJ, the Tony Award-winning new musical centered on the making of the 1992 Dangerous World Tour. Created by Tony Award-winning director and choreographer Christopher Wheeldon and two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage, MJ goes beyond the singular moves and signature sound of the star, offering a rare look at the creative mind and collaborative spirit that catapulted Michael Jackson to legendary status. MJ is startin’ somethin’ at The Fabulous Fox next month.

SLAM Underground: UNCOVERED

May 31

Want to solve a mystery? Discover the secret stories behind certain works at the Saint Louis Art Museum during this celebration of the exhibition Concealed Layers: Uncovering Expressionist Paintings, which runs until Aug. 4. During the event, you can also enjoy music, performances, artmaking and other activities as you test your sleuthing abilities.

The

History Museum’s revitalized 1904 World’s Fair exhibit opens this Saturday, April 27. Be among the first to see the new exhibit and enjoy an opening weekend full of splendor as you are reintroduced to the Fair and its complex legacy in a way you’ve never experienced before.

Opening weekend will include car displays, marching bands, a tea ceremony, outdoor cultural performances, a Confluence Chamber Orchestra concert featuring music performed at the World’s Fair, photo opportunities, walking tours through Forest Park, vendors serving up everything from multicultural food to fairy floss and ice cream cones, and a family zone with art activities and storytelling. At 1:30pm and 3:30pm on both Saturday and Sunday, there will also be performances of The Unfair Fair: Prejudice on the Pike, a Mary Meachum Celebration production.

While entry to the exhibit is free, capacity is limited. Free timed-entry tickets (limited to six per person) may be reserved when the ticket desk opens at 9am each day. Tickets will be available for that day only, first-come, first-served, with first entry into the exhibit at 10am and continuing every half hour thereafter. Visit mohistory.org/events for the full schedule.

Next week ushers in the long-awaited return of Twilight Thursdays. This popular, free outdoor concert series takes place on the Museum’s newly renovated North Plaza and brings a lineup of spectacular shows from local musicians and bands. The Museum’s galleries—including The 1904 World’s Fair and Coloring STL will be open late, and some of the area’s best food trucks will be on hand. Concerts take place from 6pm to 8pm on May 2, 9, 16, and 23.

On May 2, follow the career of Grammy winner and Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Chaka Khan, the “Queen of Funk,” with lead vocals by Cherise Louis Mason. The music director for this concert is Jeremiah Allen. Scheduled food trucks include Farmtruk, Jaaise Grubb, Pure Catering STL, St. Louis Kettle Corn & Funnel Cakes, and Zacchi.

On May 9, welcome Anita Jackson as she sings the greatest of classic R&B, with music director Phil Graves Scheduled food trucks include Bougie Bites, the Crooked Boot, Enoch’s Funnel

Cake Express, I’m Thirsty, Salt + Smoke, and Soul Burgers.

The sound of War is immediately familiar, from the melodic vocals of “The World Is a Ghetto” to the rhythm of percussion- and bass-driven “The Cisco Kid” and “Why Can’t We Be Friends?”

On May 16, don’t miss this performance featuring Jim McClaren on harmonica. Terry Coleman is the music director for this concert. Farmtruk, Jaaise Grubb, Pure Catering STL, St. Louis Kettle Corn & Funnel Cakes, and Zacchi food trucks will be on hand. The Twilight Thursdays series concludes on May 23 with “Teena Marie Catalog.” From the catchy dance beats of “Square Biz” and “Lovergirl” to the ballads “Casanova Brown” and the unforgettable “Fire and Desire,” this performance with lead vocals by Saman Swanson and music direction by Ken Black will be an evening to remember. Scheduled food trucks include Bougie Bites, the Crooked Boot, Duchess Rose Royal Street Food, I’m Thirsty, Street Dogz, and Wing and a Prayer.

All concerts begin at 6pm. Plan to arrive early to explore the Museum’s exhibits, which will be open until 8pm, and to save a spot on the North Lawn at Lindell Boulevard. Blankets, lawn chairs, tables smaller than 3 by 3 feet, and well-behaved dogs on leashes are permitted. Tents, large umbrellas, and barbecue grills are prohibited. Pack a picnic basket or small cooler with snacks, soft drinks, water bottles, and alcoholic beverages (no glass bottles, please), or save time and support a local small business by visiting one of the many food trucks that will be available each week. (Food truck schedules are subject to change.)

Parking is available within Forest Park and on Lindell Boulevard. The Museum’s west lot is available on a first-come, firstserved basis and is partially reserved for accessible parking. In addition, there are 400 parking spots in the twin lots across from the Dennis & Judith Jones Visitor and Education Center and alongside the Dwight Davis Tennis Center. Nearby public transit stops provide additional options. In the event of inclement weather, call the Twilight Thursdays Information Hotline at (314) 454-3199 after 2pm or listen to iHeartMedia radio stations.

For additional information, visit mohistory.org/twilight-thursdays.

By the Missouri Historical Society

Missouri

Religion Finding faith on Instagram with Marissa Farrow

By Dorothy S. Boulware Word in Black

Rev. Marissa Farrow presents a tiny frame and a humble persona that can easily be misleading. When she stands at the sacred desk and proclaims God’s word, she towers above and thunders throughout with an unmistakable trumpet sound.

Rev. Howard-John Wesley recently invited her to Alexandria, Va., to preach for Alfred Street Baptist Church’s March Gladness Spring Revival.” I wanted to hear her preach,” he said.

“I could not wait to invite her to Alfred Street Baptist Church. I hope y’all get something out of it too.”

Farrow grew up in Baltimore in the home of Bishop Robert and Evangelist Jacqueline Farrow and has been soaked and shaped by the power of prayer and the worship of God. The senior Farrow is pastor of Mt. Calvary Church and Ministries in Baltimore, so church is what Marissa Farrow has always known.

But who knew she’d flourish at such a youthful age into an international preacher who, at 34, is still envisioning the ministry God has shaped her for?

“I’ve never known anything else. When we got up in the morning, we prayed. When we left for school, we prayed. When we got ready to travel, we

prayed,” she says. “Prayer for us is everything.”

Thus, “The Morning Cup,” the prayer ministry Farrow shares on Instagram, attracts more than 1.5 million people on a weekly basis — with an audience that is among the youngest on social media.

And they’re the ones in her heart when she talks about mission.

One of her connections is to campus ministry. She is aware of the needs students often encounter, even basic daily needs, and she’d like to expand her ministry in that space.

For the last 11 years, Farrow has been under the tutelage of the Reverend Doctors Floyd and Elaine Flake, senior pastors of the 23,000-member Greater Allen Cathedral in Jamaica, Queens, New York, an experience she cherishes deeply.

“I couldn’t have learned anywhere else what I’ve gotten from being in practice and praxis with them,” says Farrow, who began as a preaching intern. “Even now, I’m preaching, teaching, and serving as the social media manager. It has been invaluable.” Not to mention the marvelous preachers to whom she’s been exposed.

She has also written two books, “Delivered From Dysfunction: A Seven-Step Guide to a Better You!” and “The Amaz-

ing Weight: The Gift, Grief and Glory of the Called.”

This year marks the 110th year that ministers from around the world, including military chaplains and university professors, gather on Hampton University’s campus in Virginia, during the first full week of June for the Hampton Ministers Conference.

It is a premier gathering for teaching, preaching, rejuvenating, fellowshipping, and having the freedom to worship without the constraints of ministry obligations. News is announced, books and films are released, and the best of Black preaching is shared along with a phenomenal communion service. Farrow is one of the featured

preachers for the 2024 conference. This honor is usually reserved for preachers with many years of experience and a professional ministry degree, a Master of Divinity, which she’ll earn this year from the Samuel Dewitt Proctor School of Theology at Virginia Union University.

“I really couldn’t believe it when they asked me last year to preach,” she says. “It’s still hard to believe, but I’m praying, and many others are praying with me.”

Hampton University Minister’s Conference

The Rev. Farrow will speak with other clergy members during the 110th Annual Hampton University Minister’s Conference June 2-6, 2024, in Hampton, Va.

The conference preacher is the Rev. Frederick Haynes, who surprisingly stepped down as Rainbow Push Coalition president and CEO last week after just over three months in the position.

Roland Martin, Black Star Network CEO, told a Chicago CBS affiliate that the Rev. Jesse Jackson may have retired but did not surrender control of the organization.

“You had the friction there. [Haynes] did not have the full authority to actually do the job,” said Martin, who knows both men.

“You can’t continue to frankly have the reins of an organization when you turn it over to somebody else. That’s really what you had here.”

FAMILY SUPPORT SPECIALIST II

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.

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-45d0-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.

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.

DATA ENGINEERING DELIVERY MANAGER (REF#MG24) RESP

Ascension Health-IS, Inc. d/b/a Ascension Technologies has openings for the following: Data Engineering Delivery Manager (ref#MG24) resp for managing data engr team to implmnt cloud tech to supp the mgmt of data, ops cost optimiz’n, & integrtn w/ data gov platfrm. MS/equiv in MIS, CS, CE or rel field + 3 yrs exp as a data engr/dev or in a comp pos in IT + dem exp. Sr. Specialist Tech (ref#SB24) to create cloud-native ent apps in hlthcare software indust. BS/ equiv in applied CS, CS, CE/rel field + 5 yrs exp as a SW dev/ any comp pos in IT + dem exp. 100% remote pos, rpt to HQ in St. Louis, MO. To apply, send resume to ascension.org,mostl-recruitment@ incl. ref code.

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 JOINING US:

Competitive Pay

11 Paid Holidays

Paid Vacation and Paid Sick Leave

Medical, Dental and Vision Plans

Pension Plan and Deferred Compensation Plan Life and Long-Term Disability Insurance provid- ed Wellness Program

Employee Assistance Program

STARTING PAY: $18.00 PER HOUR

If you can meet the requirements listed above, we need you! Our application process is quick and easy. Apply now and take the first step toward a fulfilling career! PERSONS REQUIRING AN ACCOMMODATION TO APPLY FOR A JOB OPENING SHOULD CONTACT THE CITY CLERK AT 314-726-1200.

THE CITY OF PAGEDALE IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER AND PARTICIPATES

CHURCH PART-TIME SOUND ENGINEER

Love Church is hiring a part-time Sound Engineer. To apply or for more information, please DM us or contact us at Love@lovechurchstl.com

Love Church Sound Engineer Description

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.

Responsibilities:

• Provide proper soundchecks to include Front-of-House mix, monitor mixes, gain settings, proper volume settings and EQ/mixing process for all church services, livestream, live performances, designated events, Praise and Worship sessions, band sessions and choir sessions

• Diagnose, troubleshoot, and resolve all sound equipment issues

• Train all Sound Ministry sound board volunteers

• Coordinate with Minister of Music and Worship Leader for song structure to enhance mix for Sunday services, designated events, Praise & Worship, and choir

• Provide stage and audio set-up for all church services and designated events to include audio needs for guest speakers, musicians, and singers

• Provide proper volume levels and sound quality during recording using

Pro Tools and console

• Receive audio requirements for timely execution of all upcoming church services and designated events

• Manage all audio engineers within the Sound Ministry

• Communicates with Premiere Event Center’s audio engineer/tech person regarding all sound equipment issues/ updates

• Responsible for

audio

www.stlamerican.com

LETTING #8770

RENOVATIONS TO PAVILION AT LINDENWOOD PARK ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI

Electronically sealed bids will be received by the Board of Public Service through the Bid Express Online Portal at https://www.bidexpress.com/businesses/20618/home?

agency=true . Proposals must be submitted before 1:45 PM, St. Louis Time, on Tuesday, MAY 21, 2024. The proposals will then be publicly opened and read.

The bidder must pay $40 to submit a bid through the Bid Express service. Monthly subscriptions are available.

Plans, Specifications, and the Agreement may be examined online through Bid Express at https://www.bidexpress.com/businesses/20618/home?

agency=true and may be downloaded for free.

An optional pre-bid conference for all contractors bidding on this project will be held at the Lindenwood Park Pavilion located at 6701 Lindenwood Ave., Saint Louis, MO 63109 on April 30 th at 11:00 AM. All bidders are strongly encouraged to attend the pre-bid meeting.

Bidders shall comply with all applicable City, State, and Federal laws (including MBE/WBE policies.)

The right of the Board of Public Service to reject any or all bids is expressly reserved.

LETTING NO. 8771

TERMINAL 1 DEPARTURES BRIDGE OVER BAG CLAIM DRIVE AT ST. LOUIS LAMBERT INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Electronic bids submitted through the Bid Express Online Portal will be received by the Board of Public Service until 1:45 PM, CT, on May 21, 2024, then publicly opened and read. Proposals must be submitted electronically using “Bid Express Online Portal” at https://www.bidexpress.com/businesses/20618/home

Plans, Specifications, and the Agreement may be examined and downloaded online through Bid Express.

A mandatory pre-bid conference for all contractors bidding on this project will be held April 30, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. The pre-bid conference will be held in Ozark Conference Room, 4 TH Floor of the Airport Office Building, 11495 Navaid Rd., Bridgeton, MO 63044.

Bidders shall comply with all applicable City, State and Federal laws (including MBE/WBE policies).

All bidders must regard Federal Executive Order 11246, “Notice of Requirement for Affirmative Action to Ensure Equal Employment Opportunity”, the “Equal Opportunity Clause” and the “Standard Federal Equal Employment Specifications” set forth within and referenced at www.stl-bps.org (Announcements).

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

SEASONAL SECURITY SERVICES GATEWAY ARCH RIVERFRONT ST. LOUIS, MO

The City of St. Louis Port Authority will receive Sealed Proposals on 5/17, 2024 For more info. Visit https://www.stlouis-mo.gov/government/ departments/sldc/procurement/index.cfm

will receive sealed bids for Structural Repairs & Related Work at 6306 West Florissant Ave.

firm(s) will provide comprehensive services to address several critical aspects of infrastructure rehabilitation and maintenance. Primarily focus is scaffolding, and repair/ replacement of fence. Responses will be received at 1520 Market Street Suite 2000 St. Louis, Missouri 63103 (Attention: 6306 West Florissant Ave. RFB), until 4:00 PM on May 16, 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

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.

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.

SEALED BIDS

Bids for Sewage Lift Stations, Thousand Hills State Park, Project No. X2302-03 will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, May, 21, 2024. For specific project information and ordering plans, go to: http://oa.mo. gov/ facilities

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

The Leadership School is accepting proposals for contracting out the Food Service Program with a Fixed Price contract for the 24-25. A pre proposal meeting will be 4/25 @ 2pm. Requests for Proposals are due by 6/3 @ 3pm. For questions and bid specifications, please contact The Leadership School at 314-492-2301. The Leadership School reserves the right to reject any or all bids.

https:// stlouiscountymovendors. munisselfservice.com/ Vendors/default.aspx, until 2:00 PM on May 22, 2024. Plans and specifications will be available on April 22, 2024 from the St. Louis County Web Site (www.stlouiscountymo.gov)

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE:

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

director of the

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sure that those folks feel welcomed, and that there’s activities for them.”

Arbolope Studio helped design water permeable asphalt, pavement and planting beds while also creating a space that attracts people from various backgrounds.

Arbolope Studio Founder and Principal Irene Compadre moved to the city nearly 21 years ago. She said the studio

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approached designs for the park by thinking of a Venn Diagram that reflected the diversity of the street. “It almost brings me to tears, I’ve wanted to be a part of the Cherokee Street community since I moved here” Compadre said. “This was the only place that I could find in St. Louis that had a Mexican grocery store, that had Mexican restaurants. This is sort of the Chicano heritage district. So this place felt like home, like it felt like there was a place for me here.”

The park includes outdoor performance space, chess tables and murals.

get the party started early on match days,” said St. Louis CITY SC’s Chief Experience Officer Matt Sebek. “Our entertainment lineup is stacked with incredible artists who cross multiple genres and sounds, including NandoSTL and our rising homegrown musicians who represent the best of St. Louis. Whether you have a ticket to the game or not, gather your friends and family and come down to the plaza for live music, fun activities, local food and drinks, and good vibes before match kickoff.”

The pre-match CITY Block Parties take place on Lou Fusz Plaza (located on the eastern side of CITYPARK) and include local food and beverage

Cherokee Street Community Improvement District Executive Director Emily Thenhaus said the park is an example of grassroots community-led investment outside of city funding.

“Over the years, a lot has happened in this space, without the support, people made it happen, but through a lot of really hard work,” Thenhaus said “I’m really excited to see people come together in an easier way. Events, community gatherings, a way for our community to celebrate together in a way that they feel supported and celebrated.”

vendors, fan giveaways, and games and activities for all ages. The block parties are free and open to the public – no tickets are required.

More information about CITY Block Parties will be shared on St. Louis CITY SC’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram (@stlcitysc), the STL CITY SC app, and at www.stlcitysc. com/blockparty ahead of matches.

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Continued from C1

Director and Margaret McDonald, Senior Principal at the global architecture firm HOK.

“I’m happy I will be in a room full of love,” BealHimes said.

By the time she was 12, Beal-Himes was fully committed to the call that Streate had placed on her life. She was taught by some of the greatest practitioners and educators with respect to the world-renowned Dunham Technique. Streate, the late Theo Jamison and Doris Bennett-Glasper were among them. “Modern dance the way we see it would not exist the way we see it without the labor of Katherine Dunham,” Beal-Himes said. “Our bodies wouldn’t move the way we move had it not been for the work that she did – particularly the work that she did building and codifying her technique on the bodies of the people of East St. Louis in the 1970s.”

She is grateful to her grandfather, Leonard Beal, who left his roots Bealsville, Florida and arrived in East St. Louis, where she thrived thanks to the community’s “village” approach when it comes to nurturing young people.

“I never understood why he left the sun – and a city named after his people – until I received a spiritual reading,” Beal-Himes said. “I was told, ‘He came here for you.’ Dancing because I like to dance versus knowing that I am

living and walking in my purpose is a completely different feeling.”

Her intention is to pass that energy along.

“I am teaching children the same way I was invested in,” Beal-Himes said. “I am pouring into students so that they see themselves reflected back to them.”

A certified Dunham Technique instructor – as well as a choreographer, actress, director, and curator – Beal-Himes received her B.A. in dance

n “I want to make sure that I am making my mother, my family and my ancestors proud that I am walking in my purpose.”

- Heather Beal-Himes

from Columbia College Chicago and her MFA in Dance from Washington University in St. Louis. She considers herself a lifelong student of the Dunham Technique and says she learns something new every time she teaches. A recent message came courtesy of the Dunham Walk.

Legend has it that the step was inspired by Ms. Dunham watching women in Haiti come down the mountain carrying everything that they had to sell at the market.

“They are stepping over rocks, but they can’t lose anything that they are carrying, because they have

to sell it,” Himes said. “It made me think of how in life you have to step over obstacles but you can’t lose anything important while you are carrying them. I was like, ‘Come on Ms. Dunham with the life lessons.’”

When she delivers her remarks in front of family, friends and supporters – there is one person in particular Beal-Himes will have her eye on.

“I’m really excited to see the look on my mama’s face,” she confessed. “I always think about the sacrifices my mother made. Performance parents don’t get the flowers they deserve. They are the ones who truly supply the shoulders for us to stand on.”

Her mother, Cheryl Beal, will be in the crowd cheering her on – as usual. So will her husband Ron Himes and their children Ronald and Vivian Himes.

“I want to make sure that I am making my mother, my family and my ancestors proud that I am walking in my purpose,” Beal-Himes said. “I’m especially excited for my daughter to be able to see something like this.

And for everyone to know that while my grandaddy might have been guided here for me, the things that I do are for my children – and to show them that they can soar.”

The 2024 Saint Louis Visionary Awards will take place at 6 p.m. on Monday, April 29th at The Sun Theater, 3625 Grandel Square in Grand Center. For tickets or additional information, visit https:// www.vizawards.org/.

Emily Thenhaus, executive

Cherokee Street Community Improvement District, introduces William Porter, owner of Master Pieza, during the opening of Love Bank Park on Sunday, April 21, 2024.

Photo by Eric Lee / St. Louis Public Radio

Photo by Lois Ingrum

The 2024 Saint Louis Visionary Awards Honorees (Left to right): Elizabeth Mannen Berges, Alexa Seda, Luisa Otero-Prada, Meridith McKinley, Shawna Flanigan and Heather Beal-Himes will be celebrated on Monday, April 29 at the Sun Theater in Grand Center.

HealtH & Wellness HealtH & Wellness

Nine nifty ways to support mental wellness

(StatePoint) When it comes to overall wellness, focusing on mental health is critical, especially for older adults, according to experts.

“As people age, they may experience stressors such as serious illness, losing close friends and family members, managing life on a fixed income, and coping with concerns about their own mortality. While seniors may show resilience to these dimensions of vitality, when they’re compounded, these losses and stressors can result in a myriad of behavioral health issues, including depression, anxiety, stress, and insomnia,” says Dr. Lindsay Evans-Mitchell, board certified adult psychiatrist and behavioral health medical director for Cigna Healthcare’s Medicare Advantage business.

Dementia, which includes memory loss and language difficulties, is another issue often more pronounced with age, and in earlier stages, it can often mimic some symptoms of depression.

Fortunately, Dr. EvansMitchell says making healthy choices can improve your quality of life, including your overall mental well-being, and potentially reduce your

risk of both depression and dementia:

Practice good nutrition: There is evidence that plant-based diets are associated with better

health, including better emotional health. That’s another reason to add more green, leafy vegetables to your diet.

Exercise: Regular

exercise can positively affect cognitive ability.

If you have a Medicare Advantage (MA) plan offering access to a fitness program at no extra cost, then make sure to

take advantage of it. You can learn about Cigna Healthcare’s MA plans at cignamedicareinformation. com.

Hydrate: Drink plenty of water. Dehydration can negatively affect cognitive performance. Even mild dehydration can drain energy and cause fatigue.

Enjoy some sunshine: Sunlight provides needed vitamin D. Getting sunshine may increase your serotonin and help you stave off depression caused by Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD. Also, according to the Alzheimer’s Association, exposure to vitamin D can lower dementia risk by as much as 40%. Of course, make sure to take proper precautions, such as wearing a hat, using sunscreen, and wearing eye protection that shields against UV light.

Get plenty of rest: Older adults need seven to nine hours of sleep

What expecting mothers needs to know about their heart

(StatePoint) Over the last three decades, the United States has seen pregnancy-related deaths rise nearly 140%, and heart disease continues to be the leading cause. Furthermore, women who have prenatal complications, such as high blood pressure or gestational diabetes, have a significantly higher risk of heart disease and stroke later in life, yet many are not getting the care they need.

According to the National Collaborative for Infants & Toddlers (NCIT), an advocacy collaborative working to pass policies that make it possible for all expectant parents, infants and toddlers to thrive, the United States is in the midst of a maternal health crisis. This sentiment is echoed by “Opportunities in the Postpartum Period to Reduce Cardiovascular Disease Risk Following Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes,” a new scientific statement from the American Heart Association (AHA), which was recently published in “Circulation,” the Association’s flagship peer-reviewed journal. “Healthcare professionals and the public alike often think of heart disease as a man’s disease. While heart disease is also the leading cause of death for women, fewer than 50% of women identify it as such. This is creating a dangerous situation for women, especially during higher-risk periods of their life, as their symptoms often go undiagnosed and untreated,” says Dr. Sadiya

S. Khan, one of the statement’s authors. “As adverse pregnancy outcomes become increasingly common, it’s important for women to be aware of their risk for heart disease, the actions they can take to lower their risk if they experience pregnancy complications, and for birth justice policy interventions to take place that will improve their care during their pregnancy, and throughout their lifetimes.”

Many women face significant barriers in accessing primary care after delivery. Up to 40% of women do not access postpartum care, and only

an estimated 18% to 25% of postpartum patients with pregnancy complications or chronic health conditions are seen by a primary care clinician within 6 months of delivery. Women of color, and women in rural areas are disproportionately impacted by barriers to care that could leave them vulnerable to further health complications.

n “As adverse pregnancy outcomes become increasingly common, it’s important for women to be aware of their risk for heart disease.”

– Dr. Sadiya S. Khan

According to NCIT,

policy interventions such as expanded Medicaid coverage for 12 months postpartum in all states, expanded income eligibility for health insurance programs, paid family and medical leave, community-based doulas, and evidence-based home visiting programs can help promote ethnic, racial and socioeconomic birth equity, and help ensure all expectant and new parents

have access to insurance, care and the supports needed to thrive.

Also supporting women in all stages of life, and all stages of pregnancy is Go Red for Women, an AHA initiative empowering women to take charge of their heart health. One way they can do that, according to the initiative, is by understanding their heart disease risks, and coming to their doctors’ appointments prepared to discuss their personal and family health history and other factors that could impact their chance of a healthy pregnancy.

Women can also proactively manage their

heart disease risk factors during pregnancy and after delivery using the AHA’s Life Essential 8 cardiovascular health metrics as a framework. These include: eating better, being more active, quitting tobacco, getting healthy sleep, managing weight, controlling cholesterol, managing blood sugar and managing blood pressure.

“Stemming the tide of this maternal health crisis is vital for families, and it starts with bringing light to the tremendous need for better delivery of care to moms and soon-to-be moms with a focus on heart health,” says Dr. Khan.

Protecting Americans’ access to high-quality health care

(StatePoint) Accepting

Medicare is becoming increasingly unsustainable for physicians, which has resulted in many practices refusing to take new Medicare patients, or even to shutter their doors. At the same time, millions of additional Americans are projected to rely on Medicare in the coming years. With a 3.37% reduc-

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tion to Medicare imposed at the start of this year, the American Medical Association (AMA) says that reforms are needed to protect millions of Americans’ access to their physicians.

“After three consecutive years of Medicare cuts, physicians and patients are at a crossroads. Physicians have faced reductions in Medicare payments each

each night, according to the National Institutes of Health. People who get six hours of sleep or less a night are at greater risk of developing dementia later, the organization says. Additionally, poor sleep could be a sign of depression and should be discussed with your doctor.

of the past four years on top of steeply rising practice costs and the burdens of nearly four years of COVID-19. Continuing down this road is unsustainable for many physicians, particularly those in smaller private practices,” says Jesse M. Ehrenfeld, MD, MPH, president of the AMA.

An AMA analysis of Medicare Trustees data

finds that Medicare physician payments increased by just 0.4% a year between 2001 and 2023.

Meanwhile, the cost of running a medical practice—including office rent, employee wages and insurance premiums—went up by 47% during that same period. Today, physicians are the only Medicare providers who do not receive an annual inflationary

update, hindering their ability to adequately pay staff, purchase new equipment and invest in their practices.

Struggling physician practices nationwide have already been forced to make such tough choices as refusing to accept Medicare, absorbing their practices into larger companies, and even shutting down operations

entirely. As a result, some Medicare patients—like Dr. Ehrenfeld’s own parents, who recently struggled to find a new physician—will increasingly be left without access to high-quality care, with the largest burden on rural and underserved areas. New cuts will erode this access even further.

To learn more, visit FixMedicareNow.org.

Pick up a hobby: Hobbies like gardening, cooking and solving puzzles can help improve your memory and your physical and mental health.

Stay away from harmful substances: Dealing with behavioral health issues in unhealthy ways, such as abusing prescription or illicit drugs or alcohol, will only worsen the situation. According to the National Institutes for Health, research shows heavy alcohol use can increase the risk of both dementia and depression.

Be social: Isolation can lead to depression, which only worsened for many during the COVID-19 pandemic. Reach out to friends and family in person, via video chat, or over the telephone.

Find help if you need it: Keep your regular medical appointments, and don’t hesitate to seek additional help from your network,

if you need it. This may take the form of a financial advisor, a clergy member, or a mental health professional. Medicare generally covers the cost of behavioral health services, including depression and addiction treatment, as well as talk therapy. Virtual services are often available to those living in rural areas. And if you’re

experiencing a crisis that includes suicidal thoughts, call 988 immediately.

“For some older adults, seeking help can be difficult,” says Dr. EvansMitchell. “But getting help is a sign of strength, not weakness. There’s no benefit to suffering in silence when help to improve your life is within reach.”