December 26th, 2019 Edition

St. LouiS AmericAn

Using black children’s literature to improve reading

Fourth Believe Room opened at Confluence Academy-Old North

By Rebecca Rivas Of The St. Louis American

Sixth grader Andre Turner leaned up against a wall-size mural of the new reading center at Confluence Academy-Old North. His head rested on the “B” about a foot taller than him that helped to form the word “Believe.” Turner was trying to stay out of the way as representatives from IKEA, Scholastic, Nine Network, Ready Readers, We Stories and leaders

A7

Kennedy at the Symphony

Soloist Kennedy Holmes is “Pretty In Pink” during the start of the second half of the St. Louis Symphony’s annual A Gospel Christmas Thu. Dec. 19, 2019 at Powell Symphony Hall in Grand Center.

Tevin Wilson, a facilitator at Nine Network, and Angela Spittal, executive director of Ready Readers, talk with Confluence Academy-Old North first grade students Jermya Walker and Ziya Branom at the Believe Project reading room’s grand opening on Dec. 19.

Clay on impeachment, presidential primary

‘McConnell wants to sweep all of the evidence under the rug’

By Chris King Of The St. Louis American

When U.S. Rep. Wm. Lacy Clay (D-Missouri) was driving to work on Capitol Hill on December 18, he called his father at

n “McConnell wants to sweep all of the evidence under the rug and have a brief show trial that acquits the president.”

– U.S. Rep. Wm. Lacy Clay

home in Silver Springs, Maryland.

“It was kind of surreal,” Clay told The American, “driving to the Capitol knowing I

was going to take this monumental vote that would indelibly be a part of American history.”

The vote in question was whether or not to impeach President Donald Trump for abuse of power and obstruction of Congress. Clay would vote yes on both articles of impeachment, which would pass the U.S. House 230 to 197 and 229 to 198, triggering a trial process to be conducted by the U.S. Senate. Clay called his father, retired Congressman

Krewson halts airport process after lawsuits are filed

‘Had we won, it could have unwound the whole thing,’ attorney claims

By Rebecca Rivas Of The St. Louis American

n “Had we won on either, it could have unwound the whole thing.”

– Mark Pedroli, Sunshine and Government Accountability Project

Various people are speculating that Mayor Lyda Krewson – despite her announced reason of lack of support in the community – decided to pull the plug on the airport privatization deal on December 20 because she knew the city was going to lose the pending lawsuit on the lack of transparency, said attorney Mark Pedroli, founder of the Sunshine and Government Accountability Project. All Pedroli knows, he said, is that they had a very strong case, alleging that St. Louis officials violated the law when they closed public records and public meetings regarding the privatization process of St. Louis Lambert International Airport. And the second lawsuit they were planning on filing this week was going to be equally strong.

“Had we won on either, it could have unwound the whole thing,” Pedroli said, “and made them restart again in a way that was compliant with not only the Missouri Sunshine Law but also the St. Louis City Charter and the city ordinances.” Had they won the first lawsuit suit, filed on December 6, they would have asked the court to order that all actions taken by the Airport Working Group during improperly closed meetings or in

More than 25 percent of needed signatures have been gathered

By Sarah Fentem Of St. Louis Public Radio

The petition to put a Medicaid expansion in Missouri to a statewide vote has garnered more than 25 percent of the needed signatures to place the measure on the November 2020 ballot, according to campaign officials. The effort to extend eligibility for the state-sponsored health insurance program to those making up to $18,000 a year also has received support from several high-profile state organizations, including Washington University and BJC HealthCare. Public health officials also are supporting the effort led by Healthcare for Missouri. St. Louis Health Director Dr. Fredrick Echols said earlier

Photo by Wiley Price

Photo by Lance Thurman

“Our

Best Wardrobe Solutions owner Cedric Cobb dressed the groom for his special day.

Will Jussie return for ‘Empire’ finale?

Earlier this year Jussie Smollett was written out of the series after allegedly staging a hate crime hoax in Chicago. According to showrunner Brett Mahoney, there is hope for Smollett to return for the series

“It would be weird in my mind to end this family show and this family drama of which he was such a significant part of without seeing him,” Mahoney told TV Line. “It’s fair to say it’s being discussed,

but there’s no plan as of yet to bring him back. There’s been no decision made.”

Bill Cosby’s camp is not amused with Eddie Murphy

Over the weekend comedian Eddie Murphy returned to host “Saturday Night Live” for the first time in 35 years and roasted jailed comedian Bill Cosby in his opening monologue.

“If you had told me 30 years ago that I would be this boring stay at home house dad and Bill Cosby would be in jail, even I would have took that bet,” Murphy said. “Who Is America’s Dad now,” Murphy continued while doing a spoton Cosby impersonation.

the destruction of Black Men in Hollywood. Remember, Mr. Murphy, that Bill Cosby became legendary because he used comedy to humanize all races, religions and genders; but your attacking Mr. Cosby helps you embark on just becoming click bait. Hopefully, you will be amenable to having a meeting of the minds conversation, in order to discuss how we can use our collective platforms to enhance Black people rather than bringing all of us down together.”*

*Spelling and grammar as it appeared in original post.

R. Kelly pleads not guilty to charges related to Aaliyah

Eddie Murphy

Andrew Wyatt, Cosby’s PR representative issued a statement Sunday in response to the jab.

It reads as follows:

“It is sad that Mr. Murphy would take this glorious moment of returning to SNL and make disparaging remarks against Mr. Cosby. One would think that Mr. Murphy was given his freedom to leave the plantation, so that he could make his own decisions; but he decided to sell himself back to being a Hollywood Slave. Stepin Fetchit plus cooning equals

Earlier this month R. Kelly was slapped with new charges in relation to his brief marriage to then 15-yearold singer Aaliyah. According to reports this week R. Kelly pleaded not guilty to charges that he bribed someone to make a fake ID for Aaliyah so they could get married. Kelly entered the plea in New York on Wednesday via video feed from Chicago. The case is ongoing.

Sources: People.com, TVLine.com, TMZ.com

Jussie Smollett

Trina Braxton

County Council votes to create Affordable Housing Trust Fund

Bill also expands and diversifies County Housing Resources Commission

By Jason Rosenbaum Of St. Louis Public Radio

The St. Louis County Council voted Tuesday, December 17 to establish a fund aimed at creating more affordable housing.

While the initial amount of money in the trust fund is small, the sponsor of the legislation believes the vote marks a big policy shift in the state’s largest county.

During the council’s final meeting of 2019, council members voted 4-3 for Councilwoman Lisa Clancy’s bill establishing the trust fund. It would empower the St. Louis County Housing Resources Commission to give money to developers, programs and local governments that are seeking to expand affordable housing.

“It would go towards eligible recipients that could be nonprofits, that could be developers, that could be other governmental agencies that are working to alleviate some of the cost burdens associated with housing,” said Clancy,

D-Maplewood. “And that could include things like building new housing or improving housing that already exists. It could be home repair. It could be lots of different things.”

The bill also increases the amount of members and specifies criteria for who serves on the housing commission. That commission currently provides funds to help alleviate homelessness.

For instance, two appointees from the county executive would have to come from the “most highly distressed areas of the county” in terms of poverty, crime, unemployment and homeless rates.

Three members would have a background in “legal services, fair housing, homeless services, disabled services, lending, or other services related to affordable housing or community development.”

“We’re going to have subject matter experts related to things like housing and real estate law joined with folks who’ve got lived experience with what it’s like to be in situations where

you’re experiencing limited access to affordable and quality housing,” Clancy said.

At first, the trust fund will get some money from a sales tax on medical marijuana — which Clancy estimates will

Affordable Housing Trust Fund for roughly 20 years. And much of the money for that comes from the city’s use tax on out of state purchases. The county’s Affordable Housing Task Force pointed out that a

n “I am grateful that finally we seem to be recognizing the need for housing – affordable, habitable housing.”

– Susan Alverson, Legal Services of Eastern Missouri

be about $50,000 a year. But she added there will likely be further discussions about how to bring a more robust revenue stream into the fund.

“What we’ve carved out so far with this medical marijuana sales tax revenue is a baby step,” Clancy said. “We’re going to need to do some hard work in the near future and in the long term to make sure that this fund has more funding.”

St. Louis has had an

0.125 percent sales tax increase and the imposition of a use tax would raise about $30 million a year for the trust fund.

Clancy’s bill passed 4-3 after a series of negotiations and changes to the legislation. A number of supporters of the measure called for its implementation over the past few months at the council’s meetings.

“I have represented tenants in thousands of different

eviction proceedings, with the goal of preventing that eviction or if it’s inevitable due to lack of funds,” said Susan Alverson, an attorney with Legal Services of Eastern Missouri.

“It has seemed to me over the 30 years that I have been doing this that things have not been getting better. I am, however, grateful that finally we seem to be recognizing the need for housing – affordable, habitable housing.”

All three of the council’s Republicans, Tim Fitch, Ernie Trakas and Mark Harder, voted against Clancy’s legislation.

Fitch said he couldn’t support the final bill because he contends it will lead to tax increases.

“When I think of taking tax money from people, I think of my 84-year-old father,” said Fitch. “So are we going to say that he should have less of his own money to spend so that money can go into a pot for government to then spend for affordable housing? I don’t think that’s the right thing to do.”

Chris Krehmeyer, president and CEO of the nonprofit Beyond Housing, said creating more affordable housing can help stabilize communities throughout St. Louis County.

“By giving families an opportunity to have a decent, safe place to come home to every night – to have children have a place where they feel safe and they feel confident, and they have their parents nurturing them — good things happen,” said Krehmeyer, whose organization has helped create affordable housing units throughout the Normandy Schools Collaborative.

The bill now goes to County Executive Sam Page, who is expected to sign the measure.

“This is a good step toward increasing the availability of safe and affordable housing in St. Louis County,” Page said. “Making housing more accessible to our vulnerable residents is the right thing to do.”

Follow Jason on Twitter: @ jrosenbaum.

Reprinted with permission from news.stlpublicradio.org.

St. Louis County Councilwoman Lisa Clancy got her affordable housing bill passed over the opposition of all three Republicans on the council, including Tim Fitch and Ernie Trakas.

File photo by Carolina Hidalgo / St. Louis Public Radio

Editorial /CommEntary

Christmas spirit in a time of impeachment

Thank God for faiths that can help overcome addiction, loneliness or stress; for institutions that can help raise the children among us. Those were never meant to be easy, ephemeral tasks. And they may be religion’s true reward. As Jesus himself prayed to the Father before he died, “Not my will, but thine, be done.”

– Newsweek, Dec. 17, 1990

Christmas is celebrated widely by believers and nonbelievers alike because of the impact of the birth and teaching of Jesus Christ on humankind.

In the spirit of the anniversary of His birth, we have a special obligation to remember His mission to feed the hungry and heal the sick. He taught His followers to serve others. Whether or not you are a Christian, Jesus’ message of love and compassion should strike a universal chord. In this blessed land of material plenty, a deepening poignancy and irony centers on the plight of the growing numbers of homeless and hungry. Many conservative Americans – not to mention supporters of President Trump –profess to be children of God, yet offer disdain and ridicule for the poor and powerless in our society. They see themselves as waging a battle against the secular, anti-religious views of the political left, while ignoring the Bible’s message of charity and love toward one’s fellow man, very much including the poor and weary travelers from distant lands – values more often enshrined in policy stands of the left than the right.

We see this in the hateful tenor of the contemporary conversation about accepting refugees from Latin America and Syria. Xenophobia, racism and fear of terrorist acts committed by radical jihadists drives many

conservative Americans to oppose our offering safe haven to people fleeing wars and atrocities perpetuated by our common enemies – or by regimes we have empowered. To brand all Latin Americans or Muslims as unwelcome –or “rapists,” as President Trump has branded Mexican immigrants – is a profoundly hateful and therefore unchristian attitude.

Further, many conservative Christians appear to be galvanized by almost nothing but opposition to the abortion option for women.

Their self-announced “pro-life” values appear to end at birth, as they support candidates working to undo affordable health care for all Americans and sluggish to refund a state health insurance program that insures low-income children or (a nightmarish, unchristian policy stand if ever there was one) even willing to defund a program that offers free lunches to poor children in public schools.

The current abomination of a U.S. president – and his countless violations of the spirit and practice of Christ, despite his allegedly “Christian” support – leads an administration that even directed the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to remove “vulnerable” from all publications and communications. If Christ watches us, He must weep. If He watches the presidential impeachment process, he must hope.

Of all the seasons, Christmas compels all of us to reach out to the less-fortunate with tangible help, not just pious expressions of sympathy, let alone the cold indifference, tinged by outright malice and racism, of Trump’s Republican Party. “What the Lord requires of you,” wrote the Prophet Micah, “is to do justice, love and mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” We wish you and your family peace and prosperity in this holiday season of impeachment.

As I See It - A Forum for Community Issues

County Police Diversity and Inclusion Unit must be diverse and inclusive

By the Ethical Society of Police

For The St. Louis American

The Ethical Society of Police is asking for an inclusive process during the implementation of the newly formed Diversity and Inclusion Unit within the St. Louis County Police Department. The head of the Diversity and Inclusion Unit should have a strong history of being a champion for racial diversity, inclusion, equity and demonstrated the prerequisites that would lead him/her to be selected as the most qualified employee.

It is from that lens that we are extremely disappointed with Chief Jon Belmar’s selection for the Diversity and Inclusion commander. The fact that there was no selection process held for such an important assignment signals to us the lack of sincerity in the department’s commitment to address diversity and inclusion for all of its employees.

The St. Louis County Police Department lags behind many police departments nationwide with regard to Diversity and Inclusion, as noted in the findings of the 2015 U.S. Justice Department’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) collaborative review of the department. Moreover, Chief Belmar has been consistently tone-deaf to the concerns raised by African Americans regarding discriminatory practices and disparate treatment of minorities relative to hiring, selection to specialized units, disciplinary actions and promotions.

The creation of a unit dedicated to addressing the aforementioned issues is a step in the right direction. However, we question the strength of the motivation for meaningful change as the creation of the unit came only after the department was hit with a multi-million dollar civil lawsuit brought by thenSergeant Keith Wildhaber, who has been chosen to head the new unit. In 2013 when then-

Lieutenant Rick Hayes was terminated for instructing several St. Louis County Police Department officers to racially profile and arrest African Americans in the South County area, there was no thought of a Diversity and Inclusion Unit. By the way, Hayes is back on the force. In 2017 when Officer Nikki Brown, a black female officer, filed a detailed 21-page complaint stating St. Louis County Police Department employees not only subjected her to sexual harassment but discriminated against her (and also several African-American recruits within the police academy), there was no thought of a Diversity and Inclusion Unit. In 2018 when E.S.O.P. expanded into the St. Louis County Police Department and explained how many African-American officers felt marginalized within the department and provided

As I See It - A Forum for Community Issues You can defend Donald Trump –or you can defend the Constitution

By U.S. Rep. Wm. Lacy Clay For The St. Louis American

I rise today to hold Donald John Trump accountable for his repeated abuse of power, his deliberate obstruction of the House’s constitutionally-mandated oversight responsibilities, and his unprecedented misuse of the presidency to undermine the rule of law, weaken the separation of powers and subvert our Constitution by dangling $391 million in congressionally appropriated tax dollars over the head of an embattled ally in order to coerce a fraudulent investigation into a potential political opponent. Our founders feared a lawless, amoral president who willfully puts national security at

risk for his own personal gain. Abuse of power and obstruction of Congress may not be flashy – but the actions of this president are perhaps the most basic examples of unconstitutional.

several examples of such treatment, there was no thought of a Diversity and Inclusion Unit.

The St. Louis County Police Department had a race issue long before Chief Belmar; however, he has done little to adequately address the problem. We wish the Diversity and Inclusion Unit could have occurred sooner when African Americans were soliciting help and repeatedly met with him. And, thus far, the implementation has failed to properly address the divisive issues that exist in the department.

To proceed into a more racially inclusive environment, the Ethical Society of Police strongly suggests mandatory cultural competency and implicit and explicit bias training for all ranks within the department and for a diverse group of employees to be included in the new Diversity and Inclusion Unit.

Forty five years ago, I was an 18-year old House intern, and I became a witness to history. Richard Nixon also believed he was above the law and that the Constitution granted him unlimited power. In 1974, members of the Republican leadership acted courageously by confronting Mr. Nixon to make it clear that their ultimate loyalty was not to one man, but to upholding the Constitution. But today, that courage seems nowhere to be found. The inescapable and uncontested evidence is that Donald Trump violated his Oath of Office. My friends, you can defend Donald Trump, or you can defend the Constitution. History will not permit you to do both. For the sake of our republic, do your duty.

Letters to the editor

Dictator privilege

The question to all of President Trump’s base is: Why are they satisfied with all of his cover-ups, lying and deception? Thousands of taxpayers’ hard-earned money spent on impeachment, attorney fees and a possible trial.

President Trump is not making it easy if he has nothing to hide by blocking the simple process of clearing his name.

John Bolden and other key witnesses are not being allowed to testify. This should alert some sense into most intelligent people’s heads. The Republican party has sat through an impeachment inquiry acting like a pack of raging wolfs, as the Democrats calmly presented the facts.

Who are the Republicans trying to protect? When history is written, the question they may ask themselves is: Who was this man we were trying to protect? The conscience of all of Trump’s followers must eventually prevail to awaken some sense of right and wrong.

All of the things he has done to women and children – the name calling, racist rhetoric and now seeking aid from a foreign country to rig the 2020 election is above and beyond white privilege.

It would seem that Donald Trump has deemed himself above the law and does not owe an explanation to anyone, not even his base.

This is dictator privilege, pure and simple. Donald Trump has gone from con man to president and now he is working on dictatorship. This is a very impressive resume to say the least.

Dorothy Dempsey, St. Louis

Vote for Medicaid expansion

Republican Governor Mike Parson, who I am sure has excellent health care for himself and his family, shows no empathy for children whose Medicaid coverage has been cut off. Some 100,000 children in Missouri have lost their Medicaid coverage, more than in any other state in the nation, while Missouri is giving General Motors $50 million in incentives for its Wentzville midsize-truck plant.

“So trucks are more important than kids having health care?” asked a child.

I urge anyone reading this letter who has children, grandchildren, nieces, or nephews to vote for Medicaid expansion in Missouri in the November 2020 election.

Linda Caravelli, Florissant

Everyday racism

Many people of color experience implicit bias from others constantly every

day, especially in the school disciplinary systems. For example, black students are expelled three times more than white students. This was stated by the ACLU of Missouri. And it’s not because the students who are black have worse behavior, it is because the students are stereotyped because of the color of their skin.

Many white people tend to not want to deal with the problem because it doesn’t resonate towards them. Many people in the juvenile court system will never finish school, meaning when they get out of the system or if they get out of the system they will not be secured a job, and if so it’s more than likely it will be a very low-paying job. Meaning that they might not be able to provide for themselves or their family.

So what? This information is so valid and important because people of color have been mistreated at a very young age, and this is not only a problem for African Americans but it is a problem for people who are Native American, Mexican, mixed-race and more.

Although a lot of people think they know everything about racism, most of the things they think are completely wrong. Many Caucasians believe that the huge problem is the white supremacist groups –for example, the Ku Klux Klan.

But the moment we blame other people for the problems we become almost as bad as them. Wake up, people!

Amissa Blumenthal

St. Louis

Reversing 40 years of progress

Clarence Thomas’

Prepared for delivery on the U.S. House floor on December 18.

U.S. Rep. Wm. Lacy Clay represents Missouri’s 1st Congressional District.

appointment to the high court and his aligning with the other ultra-conservative justices in cannibalizing civil rights issues gave validity to negative charges alleged at the senate confirmation hearings. It appeared that his confirmation was designed to make it easier for one black justice to negate the progressive record and positive memory of another black, Thurgood Marshall. Thomas’ support of cruel, unsympathetic decisions, written in mean-spirited fashion, vividly contrasted with the intelligent prose used by Justice Marshall to shatter misguided, illfound interpretations of the Constitution. Thomas sided with the court faction that imposed racial, religious and sexual constraints restricting group and individual opportunities.

Several months after donning the prestigious black robe of a high court member, fears expressed at Senate hearings of the damage that Thomas’ presence on the court would do to the fabric of society materialized in short order. Without Justice Sandra Day O’Connor there as a restraining force to the excesses of her fellow conservatives, prior court rulings guaranteeing rights for women, minorities and the poor – those traditionally deprived, depressed and denied – were repealed, revised or severely curtailed. The newly emboldened reactionary majority went on a rampage to reverse and destroy 40 years of unprecedented, progressive decisions in the field of minority advancement.

Bill Clay Silver Springs, Maryland

Guest Columnist Wm. Lacy Clay

Photo by Lawrence Bryant

St. Louis County Police Chief Jon Belmar

STEM winners at Normandy High

As this year’s math coach at Normandy High School, Mama Lisa has established several new initiatives to instill a greater sense of teamwork and a deeper appreciation for math. December 12 was the kickoff of the STEM Competition for Mathematics. Mixed teams competed to solve Princeton Review questions and to create new friends for a lasting support system across the curriculum and throughout the students’ tenure at Normandy. Many thanks to the math department teachers, Principal Pablo Flinn, Beyond Housing, and the St. Louis Community Foundation RV Fund for the grant to keep the students excited about math. Pictured are some of the winners receiving accolades for a job well done.

February 14 deadline for Missouri State Parks grants

There is a February 14 deadline to apply for grants from the Land and Water Conservation Fund and the Recreational Trails Program administered by Missouri State Parks.

Land and Water Conservation Fund grants are available to cities, counties, public school districts and public universities to be used for outdoor recreation projects.

Recreational Trails Program grants fund public trail-related projects and are available to local and state governments, public school

districts, public universities, private schools, for-profit and non-profit organizations and businesses. For more information about either of these programs, to download the grant applications and to register for a grant application workshop, visit mostateparks.com/ page/55065/outdoor-recreation-grants. For questions, contact grants management staff at mspgrants@dnr.mo.gov or call 573-751-0848 or 573-751-8661.

Lincoln U. Social Work program gets reaccreditation

The Lincoln University Social Work program has received reaffirmed accreditation through 2026 from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). The program has been accredited by the CSWE since 2011. The reaffirmation process includes students meeting learning outcomes in a total of nine areas of competency which prepare students for professional social work practice. Lincoln University’s program recorded an average of 90 percent of students meeting those outcomes. The process also includes a site visit. Site

visitors are members of the Council on Social Work Education who serve as full or part-time social work faculty at a CSWE-member school. The CSWE is an association of social work education programs and individuals with a mission to provide quality education to promote social and economic well-being for all. The association includes more than 800 bachelor and master’s degree social work programs, as well as educators, practitioners and agencies.

Return to redlining

By Charlene Crowell For The St. Louis American

Amid the tinsel and garland celebrating the holiday season, two important federal financial regulators are planning how the future financial needs of low-and-moderate income communities will be met. In an effort to “modernize” the 1977 Community Reinvestment Act, on December 12 the board of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) endorsed a proposed Notice of Public Rulemaking offered by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC).

The rulemaking move has also triggered forceful and diverging views from a host of organizations, lawmakers, and even a member of FDIC’s board. The effects of such a financial regulatory change bring potential impacts on bank branch locations and services, as well as the types and quality of credit and investment that will be conveniently available.

From its enactment, the 1977 Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) was intended to provide an enforcement provision that supported earlier civil rights laws. The law also made a federal commitment to underserved communities – both urban and rural. Even so, over the years, CRA has been contentious for deposit institutions rated for compliance.

But apparently the large stakeholder groups OCC consulted with has yet to include the U.S. House Financial Services Committee.

“He thinks that he has the authority to do this without having to interact with us and, no matter what he thinks, we think we have a responsibility to make sure that CRA is doing what it was intended to do,” said Congresswoman Maxine Waters, chair of House Financial Services.

Waters sought but has yet to schedule OCC’s Otting to testify before the committee. Additionally, she is one of several House Members who want the 60-day comment period doubled to 120 days.

According to OCC, a meeting is still being planned but no date has yet been finalized.

Additionally, one FDIC board member, Martin Gruenberg, issued a statement of opposition to the proposal during its December 12 meeting, criticizing the proposed one-ratio measurement, noting existing “credit deserts” and the lack of consideration of a bank’s efforts to provide affordable products and services LMI consumers and those without bank accounts could access.

According to OCC’s Joseph Otting, the 2019 proposal is the result of 18 months of work by staff and comments from more than 1,500 stakeholder groups with four improvements:

• Clarifying what counts as CRA credit, requiring agencies to publish a list of qualifying activities;

• Preserving some assessment areas and creating others to better reflect significant concentrations of deposits;

• Assessing what portion of a bank’s retail lending is targeted to LMI consumers; and

• Improved reporting with transparency and timeliness.

In a recent op-ed, Comptroller Otting also added a sense of urgency. “Every month this proposal is delayed prevents billions of dollars more from helping reach communities that could benefit from greater economic opportunity. The proposal is an important step in modernizing CRA, but it is not the final one,” wrote Otting for American Banker

“[T]his is a deeply misconceived proposal,” noted Gruenberg. “It would establish a CRA evaluation framework relying on a single metric approach that would allow a bank to concentrate its CRA activity in as little as 50 percent of its assessment areas, disinvest in the other 50 percent, and still receive a satisfactory or even outstanding CRA rating.”

Similar concerns came from a coalition of civil rights, consumer protection and housing industry advocates that included the NAACP, NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc., National Fair Housing Alliance and The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights.

“The proposed rules are inconsistent with the law, plain and simple,” said the leaders. “It invites a return to discrimination against communities of color and low-and-moderate income neighborhoods – a destructive, decades-old process known as redlining that the law was designed to end forever.”

Once the proposed rule is published in the Federal Register, interested parties and organizations can file public comments. What happens over the coming months will reveal whether access to sound and affordably priced credit remains a wish or becomes a reality.

Charlene Crowell is the Center for Responsible Lending’s communications deputy director. She can be reached at Charlene.crowell@responsiblelending.org.

Charlene Crowell

Continued from A1

Bill Clay, the first African American to serve in Congress for Missouri, to ask for perspective. The senior Clay had served in the U.S. House during one of the only two previous impeachments of a U.S. president. Almost 11 years ago to that day, President Bill Clinton was impeached by the House for perjury to a grand jury and obstruction of justice, with the elder Clay voting against those and two other articles that were rejected.

The elder Clay also served in the U.S. House when it initiated impeachment proceedings against President Richard Nixon, though Nixon resigned and began to cooperate with the House Judiciary Committee before the matter came to a House

Airport

Continued from A1

violation of the Sunshine Act be null and void.

The Working Group’s voting members are Budget Director Paul Payne and representatives for Krewson, President of the Board of Aldermen Lewis Reed and Comptroller Darlene Green. All are named in the lawsuit.

floor vote. Before Clinton, the only other U.S. president to be impeached was President Andrew Johnson for High Crimes and Misdemeanors in 1868.

“I just tried to get his perspective on how he viewed the proceedings,” Clay said of calling his father, who had served during the Nixon and Clinton administrations. Both Johnson and Clinton were acquitted by the U.S. Senate. Trump awaits trial. Clay said he has been fielding calls from friends and political observers impatient with Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi’s pace in proceeding.

“We’re in the process now for setting the rules for how we will proceed,” Clay said he has been telling people. He said Pelosi has to wait while Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer negotiates on the rules with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell.

Since July 2018, the Airport Working Group has held about 47 meetings to evaluate the possibility of privatizing the airport, according to the suit. During these meetings, the Working Group members have allegedly closed meetings to discuss information that should have been open to the public, it states.

On December 20, Krewson announced that she was asking her representative on the Airport Working Group to not proceed with RFP for potential leasing the airport. Krewson’s spokesman Jacob Long said that the lawsuit did not factor into her decision.

“She inherited this idea when she took office in April 2017,” Long wrote in an email. “Since then, she’s been listening intently to residents, business leaders, our partners at the airlines, and other elected officials. They have all expressed serious concerns and reservations about moving forward, and about the possibility that a private entity might operate the airport.”

“It’s not going well,” Clay said of negotiations. “McConnell wants to sweep all of the evidence under the rug and have a brief show trial that acquits the president.”

Clay, who grew up around the halls of power and has served in Congress since 2001, has many personal relationships with Republicans, and he knows some who do not vote the way they feel about Trump.

talking points of the Kremlin.”

Most of the evidence against Trump was gathered by federal intelligence agencies, which has placed Trump and his Republican supporters in the unfamiliar position, reminiscent of Nixon’s bashing the nation’s highest law enforcement agencies.

n “To think that Russia is one of our fiercest adversaries, and to hear the White House parroting the talking points of the Kremlin.”

– U.S. Rep. Wm. Lacy Clay

“I talk to some, and they cannot really justify this president’s actions and his close relationship with Russia with a straight face,” Clay said. “To think that Russia is one of our fiercest adversaries and to hear the White House parroting the

The American asked if some of the “serious concerns and reservations” she was hearing were about the lack of transparency. Long responded that, “No, and the reference to a ‘lack of transparency’ sounds like a biased judgment call. When you’re engaged in competitive processes like this one, the law allows for some information to be withheld because it is proprietary in nature.”

The American explained that the phrase “lack of transparency” has been used by U.S. Rep. Wm. Lacy Clay (D-Missouri), city elected officials, university experts and community members. Were they making “biased judgment calls”?

“No, I’m not saying that

“This is the same GOP that was once the party of law and order,” Clay said.

Clay recalled a conversation he had with U.S. Rep. Mark Meadows (R-North Carolina), former chair of the archconservative Freedom Caucus, who has said that FBI and Department of Justice officials “have some serious explaining

about them,” Long said. “They’re entitled to their opinions.”

And we asked, when the mayor said she is “listening,” was she not listening to this concern? Long said that Krewson understands and heard that many people wanted more information available.

“The law also allows for public officials to discuss said information in executive session, as public bodies have been doing for a very long, long time,” Long said. “So, no, concerns over transparency were not a driving factor in the mayor’s decision. We are ready to move on.”

He said the City Counselor’s Office is in the process of identifying additional information and seeing what

to do” about their investigation of Trump. “Look at you now,” Clay said he told Meadows, “juxtaposed to me, an AfricanAmerican Democratic member of Congress defending the FBI’s credibility after its history of atrocities against African-American leaders and the black community.”

Clay said his Republican colleagues from Missouri –including U.S. Senators Roy Blunt and Josh Hawley and U.S. Rep. Ann Wagner – stand behind Trump because he remains popular with their base. So they parrot Trump’s argument that impeachment is a merely partisan initiative.

“They don’t care to look at the facts of the case, they only want to attack the process,” Clay said of Missouri Republicans in Congress.

“They are emboldened by their base. They think this will do them no harm but only

can be released and will release it when they are able.

In a statement, Comptroller

Darlene Green said, “From the very beginning, I opposed airport privatization. Our airport is well-managed and I thank all our airport employees for their hard work and dedication. I’m encouraged that the city can now move forward. I’m grateful to the residents of St. Louis city and our region for speaking up and expressing their opinions about airport privatization.”

Documents containing the minutes of a closed-door meeting, leaked to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch on Tuesday reveal potential conflicts of interest related to one company — STL Aviation Group.

According to the minutes, the mayor’s deputy mayor on development, Linda Martinez, who represents Krewson on the Working Group, pushed back on why the company was not included on a shortlist of eight companies recommended by consultants to the group, St. Louis Public Radio reported.

STL Aviation Group is being advised by former Mayor Francis G. Slay’s campaign manager and chief of staff Jeff Rainford. Slay initiated the privatization process at the end of his term as mayor in 2017 by submitting an application to the Federal Aviation Administration.

At a recent town hall meeting, community members expressed their concern about the overall conflicts of interest involved in the privatization process. The team that is acting as the city’s consultant

strengthen their political hand.” Will this position help or hurt Wagner, who looks like she will face her toughest challenge in 2020 from state Senator Jill Schupp (D-Creve Coeur)? “It depends on who you talk to,” Clay said. As for the presidential contest, the most talked-about race in 2020, Clay is yet to pick another favorite after his candidate, Kamala Harris, dropped out of the Democratic primary.

“Right now voters are trying to decide who will offer the best challenge to Donald Trump,” Clay said. “Whomever Democrats settle on, we as a party really need to be united to get our candidate elected. We can’t have a replay of 2016 and all of those problems that cost us an election. I hope everyone in the party is mature enough to understand the ramifications of not uniting around our candidate.”

is led by Grow Missouri, Inc., an organization funded by retired conservative financier Rex Sinquefield. Grow Missouri paid for the application into the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Privatization Program. If the city privatizes airport operations, then the consultants will be paid “success fees.”

“Any fruit that could come from the process being used would be fruit from a poisoned tree,” said Ray Mundy, former director of the University of Missouri-St. Louis’ Center for Transportation Studies.

According to the city’s contract with Grow Missouri, Sinquefield would only be reimbursed if the city goes through with privatization. Krewson told St. Louis Public Radio on Friday the money would not be reimbursed.

SEIU Local 1, which represents almost 100 janitors at the airport, said that Krewson’s decision was a victory for all St. Louis residents.

“From the start, it was clear only insiders and the status quo would benefit from the privatization of St. Louis Lambert International Airport,” said Keyahnna Jackson, of SEIU Local 1. “Working people and community allies came together and fought hard to hold wealthy special interests accountable and to stop the privatization of one of our city’s most important assets. Privatization of our airport would have lowered standards for passengers, workers and our entire region.”

from his school district

excitedly milled around the brand new room.

When his fellow students return from winter break, they will get to experience a quiet, relaxing reading room filled with black children’s literature and comfortable seating.

“I like the way they put it together,” Turner said over the noise. “I think they’ll like to sit around and read books inside this room.”

But on Thursday, December 19, the room was anything but quiet for its grand opening.

The new reading room is part of the Believe Project, which is the brainchild of Julius B. Anthony, founder of the St. Louis Black Authors and Children Literature. The group became a nonprofit last August, but they have been going into schools and reading to children since 2016.

Old North’s reading room is the fourth to open since September, and Anthony expects they will have 10 or more sites by the end of 2020.

“My dream was to do only one,” Anthony said. “So much goodwill has been built around this project with the five partners, it took on a life of its own.”

The first room was established at the Ferguson Community Empowerment Center, followed by Sister Thea Bowman Catholic School in East St. Louis and Glasgow Elementary in the Riverview Gardens School District.

Three of the locations are within a Promise Zone, a highpoverty area that the federal

Medicaid

Continued from A1

Continued from A1 this month that many people in the city don’t have access to medical care and could benefit from coverage under Medicaid.

St. Louis has a significant number of people who are vulnerable and don’t have access to necessary medical services, he said.

“The evidence is our health outcomes,” Echols said.

Nearly 25 percent of the city’s residents live at or below the poverty line and can’t afford insurance, Echols said. That means when they’re faced with a medical emergency, they ignore it or go to the emergency room, which can put them in medical debt or bankruptcy.

“By expanding Medicaid,

government has selected to help improve job growth and educational opportunities and reduce crime.

“About 90 percent of the black children in public education in our region are attending a school in the Promise Zone communities,” Anthony said. “This is part of a Promise Zone community, and we really want to make sure that wherever we go we are supporting the work that was there and helping children

we’ll address a lot of these issues,” Echols told the St. Louis Board of Aldermen’s Health and Human Services Committee two weeks ago.

“Not just access to health care but financial well-being for individuals in our community.”

Advocates must gather 172,000 signatures in six of Missouri’s congressional districts by May 3 to put Medicaid expansion before voters next year.

The campaign is “on track” to qualify, said A.J. Bockelman, Healthcare for Missouri campaign manager.

Missouri is one of the 17 states that hasn’t expanded Medicaid. Most of the states that have taken the expansion did so through their state legislatures, an effort that’s been unsuccessful in Missouri.

That the issue has been discussed in Missouri for years

n “We really want to make sure that wherever we go we are supporting the work that was there and helping children fall in love with reading.”

– Julius B. Anthony

fall in love with reading. That’s what this is all about.”

In the St. Louis metropolitan region, about 75 percent of black third graders aren’t passing the state-mandated

could work in the effort’s favor, Bockelman said.

“We’re seeing that heightened public awareness around what health care has meant to people at a level that I think has been hyperfocused, because this effort has been ongoing for so long,” he said.

Last year, three states carried by Donald Trump in 2016 — Idaho, Nebraska and Utah — legalized Medicaid expansions through ballot initiatives.

After the start of the new year, the campaign will push its efforts beyond the metropolitan areas of Kansas City and St. Louis, he said.

The campaign expects wideranging support in rural areas in central Missouri, Bockelman said.

“I think in particular those rural areas, those small

exam in reading, he noted. The research shows that by the end of third grade, if students aren’t on grade level or above grade level in reading, then they have a harder time in school,

interior cities where we’ve seen nine hospitals close around the state just since 2014, you have a sense in local communities it’s impacted them in so many different ways,” he said.

Studies have indicated high uninsured rates in rural areas have contributed to declining

Anthony said. Research from Forward Through Ferguson suggests that students will go on to have a harder time navigating adult life if they aren’t good readers.

“That’s what this project is all about,” Anthony said. “It’s about using black children’s literature as a definitive strategy for improving reading for all children, particularly black children in St. Louis.”

Arionna Ralleigh, the Confluence Charter Schools’

hospital profits and closures. Bockelman noted that several progressive ballot initiatives were successful in 2018, including a measure that legalized medical marijuana and a referendum on the state’s right-to-work law.

A signature petition

curriculum coordinator, said the schools are focused on building their readers’ identities.

“The idea is that as we build them up as readers, they will also want to engage more in text,” Ralleigh said. “We are going to look at how that impacts their behavior, attendance and reading levels.”

The reading center is different than the school’s library because the books are not logged by reading level, said Leslie Muhammad, principal of Confluence Academy-Old North.

“I’m really loving the fact that they can come in and pick up a book — it doesn’t matter what book it is — and open a new world,” Muhammad said. She also believes that the students will identify with the characters in the books because they have the “same, brown skin.”

“Most importantly, it’s a family atmosphere,” Muhammad said. “That’s why you see the different types of seating areas to really give them that home environment.”

In the center of the room is a couch with end tables. There is a wooden table that resembles a kitchen table or living room table. One corner has two reclined chairs, and another corner has bean bags on the floor. The room is specifically designed for kindergarten through 4th grade.

“Teachers will be with them, but they won’t be reading to them,” Muhammad said. “They will be reading their own books. It’s just an atmosphere for community building.”

drive is underway at www. healthcareformissouri. org where you can add your name to this 2020 ballot initiative.

Follow Sarah on Twitter: @ petit_smudge. Reprinted with permission from news.stlpublicradio.org.

Confluence Academy leaders and students surround Julius Anthony, founder of the St. Louis Black Authors and Children Literature, at the grand opening of the Believe Project’s fourth reading room at Confluence Academy-Old North.

Photo by Lance Thurman

Celebrates 35 Years of Sisterhood & Service

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated®, Omicron Theta Omega Chapter celebrated thirtyfive years of sisterhood and service this year.

Omicron Theta Omega was chartered by thirty-two astute and committed women on May 27, 1984, to provide impactful programs and excellent service to the St. Louis Metropolitan community. Omicron Theta Omega has a rich history of service that includes the establishment of the Ethel Hedgeman Lyle Academy (1999-2010), supporting food drives, donating to food pantries, providing meals to families, helping children whose parents are incarcerated, providing adult school supplies, supplying welcome baskets & household items for immigrant families, partnering with organizations to dispel myths surrounding mental health in the African American community and so much more.

Omicron Theta Omega is recognized for its programs focused on cultivating and encouraging high scholastic standards among youth, empowerment through voter registration, strengthening the black family, health care, and the arts. The chapter has initiated programs that have become cornerstones within the St. Louis Metropolitan communities, such as the Fighting 4 Your Future Youth Summit, HBCU College Fair in partnership with Harris Stowe State University, and its signature Pink Pizzazz Scholarship Jazz Brunch & HBCU Party fundraising efforts to provide scholarships. Omicron Theta Omega hosts an Annual Health Fair in partnership with the Ferguson Empowerment Center, Salvation Army, and Christian Hospital to bring much-needed services and health education to surrounding communities. Additionally, the chapter partners with local financial advisors to present Fiscal Responsibility Workshops to promote/increase wealth accumulation in the African American community and organized the 365 Black Bus Tour to support black-owned businesses. Omicron Theta Omega also finds time to supports the arts by attending plays and performances as well as partnering with the Jazz at the Bistro.

In observance of Omicron Theta Omega’s 35th Anniversary, the chapter hosted a Salute to Partners Recognition Reception. The theme, 35 Years of Sisterhood & Service, honored the chapter’s legacy of service and partnerships with local organizations. The celebration honored 15 local community partners and the chapter’s charter members. One of the highlights of the evening was the display of the chapter’s history representing the services and programs extended to the St. Louis Metropolitan community through the years.

‘State control will not address racism and officer misconduct’

State Rep. Chris Carter files bill to return St. Louis police to state control

It’s not often that longtime police accountability advocate John Chasnoff, co-founder of the Coalition Against Police Crimes and Oppression, agrees with Jeff Roorda, the business agent and mouthpiece for the St. Louis Police Officers Association. But they agree that it would not be a good idea to return control of the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department to the State of Missouri.

This throwback idea was floated by state Rep. Chris Carter (D-St. Louis) in a bill filed in advance of the upcoming legislative session.

“This legislation would be a move in the wrong direction,” Chasnoff told The American “Returning to state control disempowers the community. With local control, citizens have the ability to change the city administration and demand accountability. With local control, the Board of Aldermen can have input and legislate changes if necessary. A structural change that takes away those powers would only return us to the old status quo that has proven itself to be unresponsive and dysfunctional.”

Roorda mostly offered bromides about the bravery of police and how much the general public supports them and granted that “city control has been a disaster,” but added, “I doubt that this is a serious proposal” without arguing for any merits it might have.

Police accountability activists like Chasnoff advocated for a return to local control and the Police Officers Association opposed it in November 2012, when the matter went before city voters as Proposition A. It passed by more than 15,000 votes, 76,715 votes (56.36 percent) to 59,407 votes (43.6 percent).

The Ethical Society of Police, which advocates for racial equity in police work, opposed Proposition A in 2012. Sergeant Heather Taylor, its current president, doesn’t like local control any more than Roorda, but doesn’t see any value to returning to state control either.

“There’s no one benefit to local control versus state control that makes one more appealing than the other,” Taylor told The American “However, the starting point has to occur with hiring, holding current officers accountable for misconduct, and giving officers incentives for working in the St. Louis Metropolitan City Police

Department.”

Unlike most cops, Taylor sounds more like Chasnoff than Roorda when talking about police abuse of power. She used a highly charged example to stress why state control was no better than local control.

“State control and local control have their pros and cons,” Taylor said. “Neither will stop police corruption Jason Stockley murdered Anthony Lamar Smith when we had a board of police commissioners. They didn’t see fit to immediately fire him then for his actions.” (For the record, Stockley was acquitted of murder by Judge Timothy Wilson in a bench trial, sparking months of protests and dozens of lawsuits alleging police brutality and First Amendment violations.)

Taylor sounds more like Roorda in complaining about the deterioration of the police department under local control – that is, under the control of Mayor Lyda Krewson Public Safety Director Jimmie Edwards and Police Chief John Hayden.

“Local control hasn’t lived up to the hype, and there is way too much bureaucracy in city government,” Taylor said.

“Getting simple repairs done on police vehicles can take months, if they get done at all. Some of our cars are damaged and run down, but let’s not fail to attribute that to how some officers have chosen to drive these vehicles.”

On the Ethical Society of Police’s core issue – racial equity – Taylor sees no greater or lesser accountability under Krewson, Edwards and Hayden than under the state-appointed police boards of the past.

“State control will not address racism and officer misconduct,” Taylor said. “We were founded under state control because of rampant racism; despite a Board of Police Commissioners, very little changed. The same can be said now.”

Carter justified his legislation – illogically – by claiming that under local control, the police department is not accountable to anyone.

“We feel the police department is now less responsive because they no longer answer to anyone, a committee, the state legislature, or the governor,” Carter said.

In fact, the police department answers to Hayden, who answers to Edwards, who answers to Krewson. None of these officials was mentioned by Carter.

Blast from the past: then-St. Louis Police Officers Association President Tom Walsh shakes hands with then-St. Louis Police Board President Richard Gray in 2011, when city police were still governed by a state-appointed board.

Unlike Taylor, who wants more accountability for the police, and Roorda, who wants more official respect for the police, Carter just wants more police: “more police officers, more squad cars and more uniforms in North St. Louis.”

Perhaps state Rep. Wiley “Chip” Price (D-St. Louis), who just finished his rookie session in the state House, offered the most logical perspective on the issue of the St. Louis police relative to the Missouri Legislature.

“Local control was passed by city voters by a wide margin,” Price told The American “As elected officials, it’s not about our opinions. It’s about the will of the people. The control of the St. Louis police is a decision to be made by St. Louis voters, not Missouri legislators.”

Bosley files bill to regulate ammunition sales

State Rep. LaKeySha Bosley (D-St. Louis) is not coming for anyone’s guns, but she does want ammunition sales to be better regulated in Missouri.

On Thursday, December 19 she filed House Bill 1856, which would require anyone selling ammunition to attain official designation by the

secretary of state as a licensed ammunition seller. It would also require ammunition dealers to keep records of people who buy ammo, require face-to-face transactions between sellers, deliverers and purchasers, and prohibit people from transporting ammunition purchased outside of Missouri into the state. The bill would also require anyone selling ammunition to be in an

officially designated, licensed location. California voters enacted similar policies via Proposition 63 in 2016. Currently, Missouri has no regulations regarding the sale of ammunition. The state requires no licenses for vendors, does not ensure that people purchasing ammo have a license, nor does it prohibit people ineligible of possessing

“As a state legislative body that wants to address and curb the issue of gun violence, not regulating ammunition is negligence,” Bosley said in a statement. “If we want to keep law-abiding citizens safe, we have to assure them we’re doing our part, and we can do that by passing this bill.” Bosley said that her bill is a response to a summer that saw 13 children killed in St. Louis, some of them by stray bullets.

“When we start to lose our most vulnerable,” she stated, “we have to look at what we’re doing and make changes right now that protect our children.” Knowing the opposition she can expect from the Republican-dominated legislature, particularly outstate legislators, Bosley stated that she would open to the possibility of having the law only apply to cities not located within counties. St. Louis is the

Photo by Wiley Price

State Rep. LaKeySha Bosley (D-St. Louis)

“TakingCareofYou”

Mercy Health should support Jamaa, not compete

On December 19, the following claims and demands are made by the undersigned community advocates.

As a coalition of progressive Missourians who work for health equity, to expand Medicaid and to protect access to reproductive health services, we are committed to lifting up black health care providers and centering their critical work. To that end, we write to support and amplify the voices of Jamaa Birth Village and the black leaders in our community and to urge Mercy Health stop perpetuating the colonization of midwifery, and to halt their plans of opening a competing health center in Ferguson.

From Anarcha, Lucy, and Betsey, the women who were enslaved and experimented on by an early creator of modern gynecology,

n Black women in Missouri die at three times the rate of white women. Jamaa Birth Village in Ferguson is working to change these statistics one birth at a time.

to the Tuskegee Syphilis experiment on black men that only ended in 1972, our country has a long history of experimenting on Black bodies for the “advancement” of medicine. We can see the consequences of this disturbing history undeniably linked to the current racial disparities in health care

in our community. As of October 2019, Missouri ranks 44th in the nation for maternal mortality the number of women who die due to complications from pregnancy. Among black women, the numbers are even more dire — black women in Missouri die at three times the rate of white women. Research shows that societal and systemic racism, including deeprooted racial bias in health care, is a leading driver of these health disparities, and that culturally congruent care can help remedy these inequities. Jamaa Birth Village in Ferguson is working to change these statistics one birth at a time. Since 2015, Jamaa Birth Village has

By Dr. Denise Hooks-Anderson Of The St. Louis American

It is that time of year again where healthcare providers around the nation are advising their patients about immunizations, particularly the influenza vaccine.

n Vaccines are safe. This fact has been proven multiple times. Vaccines do not cause autism.

Each year, researchers and scientists around the world gather together in the winter months to determine which strains of the flu virus the next season’s vaccine should cover. This is the reason that if you receive your influenza vaccine late in the season, such as January, you are not protected against the virus in December of that same year. The components of the vaccine have changed by then. The 2018/2019 flu season was interesting in that there appeared to be two different peaks of activity, the typical fall one but also one late in the spring. Researchers noted that a new variety of the flu virus known as H3N2 had begun to spread rapidly in several countries in early 2019. In the United States, it caused a second wave of illnesses late in a flu season that had already seen the rise and fall of another strain entirely. As a result of that revelation and information from the six World Health Organization Centers that track worldwide influenza activity, this year’s influenza shot will include the H3N2 strain.

Every child from the age of 6 months old and every adult should receive a flu shot. It is recommended for everyone. Minor illnesses do not prohibit the administration of the influenza vaccine.

There are only a couple of major precautions with the flu vaccine. For example, the inactivated vaccine should not be given to people who have a moderate to severe allergic reaction to any component of the vaccine.

In the past, having an egg allergy or past history of Guillaine-Barre Syndrome, a rare neuromuscular disorder causing profound motor difficulties, would have been a reason not to receive the vaccine. However, now the guidelines say that individuals

‘This decision could take us to a dangerous and irresponsible place’

Affordable Care Act endangered by appellate court ruling in case AG Schmitt joined

By Sandra Jordan Of The St. Louis American

On the day that Donald Trump was getting impeached by the U.S. House of Representatives for abuse of power and obstructing Congress, the federal Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans handed the president a partial victory in his ongoing attack on Obamacare. The appellate court agreed with a lower court ruling that the Affordable Care Act’s individual mandate for health insurance is unconstitutional, because the mandate could no longer be considered a tax without the penalty for not having it. However, the court did not

for

n “Both the court and Eric Schmitt are wrong – not just on the law, but because this decision has the potential to deprive millions of Missourians from obtaining insurance coverage.”

– Rich Finneran

rule against the law entirely. The 2-1 ruling on December 18 kicked

See ACA, A13

ST. LOUIS AMERICAN

Denise HooksAnderson, MD

April Thomas and Cory Lampkin visited Jamaa Birth Village with their daughter Addisonkori in March.

Photo by Kae Petrin / St. Louis Public Radio

“TakingCareofYou”

ACA

Continued from A12

the issue back to the lower court (that previously ruled the entire ACA unconstitutional) to determine how much of the law can exist on its own in light of the ruling. Patient advocacy groups and states say the impact could be devastating and upset the nation’s entire health system.

After the ruling, California Attorney General Xavier Becerra, who leads a coalition of states defending the ACA against the Texas vs. U.S. lawsuit to repeal the heath care law, said, in part:

“For now, the president got the gift he wanted — uncertainty in the healthcare system and a pathway to repeal — so that the healthcare that seniors, workers and families secured under the Affordable Care Act can be yanked from under them. So close to the holidays, our nation may have just taken a giant step backwards,” Becerra stated.

“This decision could take us to a dangerous and irresponsible place, not just for the 133 million Americans with pre-existing conditions, but for our seniors who use Medicare, our children under the age of 26, and the 20 million additional Americans covered directly through the ACA marketplace. California will move swiftly to challenge this decision, because this could mean the difference between life and death for so many Americans and their families.”

Becerra pointed to health care rights and protections now in peril because of the Fifth Circuit appellate court’s decision, including 9 million people who would lose tax credits to afford insurance, 12 million who now have insurance through Medicaid expansion in their state; and Nearly $1.3 trillion in

federal funding, including Medicaid expansion and public health dollars.

The lone dissenter on the three-judge appeals panel came from Carolyn Dineen King, said sending the case back to the lower court would “prolong uncertainty over the future of the healthcare sector.”

As uncertainty remains, the ACA is expected to head back to the U.S. Supreme Court for a third time, which could also delay the impact of the lower court’s decision past the 2020 election.

Nancy Kelley, program director of Cover Missouri, said while advocates are disappointed with the ruling, it’s too early to predict the outcome.

“We understand that the courts may take months if not years to come to a final ruling. In the meantime, the health insurance landscape continues to change and adapt outside court rulings, administrative decisions, or legislative actions,” Kelley said. “We remain steadfast in our commitment to helping Missourians get, keep, and use quality and affordable health care.”

The Texas vs. U.S. lawsuit was filed by 19 republican state attorneys general, including Eric Schmitt of Missouri. Rich Finneran, who is seeking the Democratic nomination to challenge Schmitt for attorney general in 2020, spoke out against the appellate ruling.

“Both the court and Eric Schmitt are wrong – not just on the law, but because this decision has the potential to deprive millions of Missourians from obtaining insurance coverage they desperately need. The Supreme Court has already upheld the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act, not once, but twice. With today’s ruling, it looks likely that they will need to remind Eric Schmitt

Students and staff at Parkway Southwest Middle School collected 5,822 pounds of fresh food for Circle Of Concern Food Pantry. Students were asked to donate potatoes (sweet, gold, and russet), oranges, peppers, carrots, apples, bananas, broccoli, celery, melons, leafy greens, etc.

Several years ago, for a health class lesson on healthy eating, sixth-grade teacher Paulo Ribeiro invited a representative from the Circle Of Concern Food Pantry to speak to the students. The students learned about the mission and needs of the organization and that they don’t get non-perishable

and his allies of that fact a third time,” Finneran stated.

“But the real tragedy is that, as a result of Eric Schmitt’s efforts, over 220,000 Missourians are at risk of losing their health coverage, almost a third of whom are over the age of 55 but not yet eligible for Medicare. Without

protections for preexisting conditions, many of these Missourians could be forced to go without coverage.” Kelley of Cover Missouri said the legal process can take years and no final decision is expected in 2020. Additionally, she said, it is unlikely that these lower

foods donated, but their clients lack access to healthier options such as fresh fruits and vegetables. The Southwest Middle students got to work and researched the healthiest food choices and created school announcements for a fresh food drive. This is the first fresh food drive Circle Of Concern has benefited from.

Circle Of Concern feeds the hungry and provides assistance to low-income families living in west St. Louis County. For more information about Circle Of Concern, visit http://www.circleofconcern.org/.

court rulings would have a major impact on the question of whether Missouri should expand its Medicaid program.

“It’s important to know this decision does not impact current health insurance coverage,” Kelley said. “That means Missourians who enrolled in a Marketplace plan during this year’s open enrollment will have coverage in 2020, as long as they pay their monthly premiums. Any changes to the ACA or the Marketplace that result from this decision will likely take time to implement as it is expected the ruling will be appealed.”

Jamaa

Continued from A12

provided wraparound support for pregnant and parenting women in Ferguson. Through a network of trusted health professionals, they have worked with more than 400 families to provide compassionate and empowering perinatal care in a community care setting.

Mercy Hospital in Creve Coeur partnered with Jamaa Birth Village in 2018, seeking their expertise to grow Mercy Health’s ability to provide

Anderson

Continued from A12 with the formerly mentioned situations should discuss influenza vaccination with their providers. In addition to the influenza

culturally competent care at the Mercy Birthing Center in Creve Coeur. The partnership between Mercy Health and Jamaa Birth Village was one small step towards rebuilding trust between the healthcare industry and the black women who have been exploited by that system for so long. This progress has now come undone because of the secretive and underhanded way in which Mercy Health is proceeding to open a new health center just neighboring Jamaa Birth Village. Clearly Mercy Health sees the value in Jamaa

vaccine, many people now seem to be keenly aware of the pneumonia shot because of the news outlets reporting on Oprah Winfrey’s recent pneumonia infection. I just want to make clear that the pneumonia vaccine has been around for years, but as with most things, it took a

Birth Village’s work. Instead of investing in them and helping them to grow and thrive, Mercy Health is now planning to directly compete with them in their community, threatening the livelihood of the exemplary health center they have created. Despite Mercy Health’s stated commitment to the community, they have shared publicly that they are beginning a new center in an area that already has care, and stealing the Jamaa Birth Village model of care, thus undermining the expertise and desires of the very community they say they respect.

celebrity’s emphasis on it to convince people to listen.

The pneumonia vaccine is not recommended every year as the flu shot. It is recommended for people 65 years and older and in certain categories of people younger than 65. For instance, if you are a smoker, have a weakened immune

Rather than position themselves as direct competitors, we strongly urge Mercy Health to use their resources to support and collaborate with the wellestablished health providers who are rooted in the Ferguson community. And while there remain maternity care deserts across our state, we hope Mercy will bring their quality health services and commitment to addressing racial and health disparities to other communities in need.

In solidarity, Advocates of Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis

system, or have a chronic lung condition, you should get the pneumonia shot. There are two different types of pneumonia shots, PCV-13 and PCV-23. Consult with your doctor about which one is best for you. As a reminder, vaccines are safe. This fact has been proven multiple times. Vaccines do

Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital gets top nursing recognition

The American Nurses Credentialing Center has bestowed SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital with Magnet recognition.

The Magnet Recognition Program provides a framework for nursing practice, research, and measurement of outcomes. The center evaluates applicants across a number of components, including quality of nursing leadership and coordination and collaboration across specialties, as well as processes for measuring and improving the quality and delivery of care.

U.S. News & World Report’s annual showcase of “America’s Best Hospitals” includes Magnet recognition in its ranking criteria for quality of inpatient care.

Region and Southwest Missouri, Alice Chamberlain, Alison Dreith, 8th Ward Ald. Annie Rice, Brian M. Wingbermuehle, Chimene Schwach, 6th Ward Ald. Christine Ingrassia, community activist Dana Sandweiss, Daniela Velázquez, Denise Lieberman, Dianna Fine (state policy advocacy chair, NCJWSt. Louis), Jay-Marie Hill (ACLU-MO, trans justice organizer; principal, Music Freedom Dreams), Jessica Estes, social justice doula Justice Gatson, Kansas/ Missouri Dream Alliance, state Rep. LaKeySha

not cause autism. Vaccines prevent illnesses which can cause us considerable harm. Furthermore, let’s not forget that every year many people die from influenza-related illnesses. Please take my advice and talk to your provider about your immunization record.

Bosley, St. Louis County Councilwoman Lisa Clancy, 25th Ward Democratic Commiteewoman Lori Lamprich, Mallory Schwarz, 15th Ward Ald. Megan Ellyia Green, M’Evie Mead, Milkayla Allen, Missouri Abortion Fund, Missouri Democratic Party officers and staff Missouri Family Health Council, Inc., MO Political Consulting, Molly Fleming, NARAL Pro-Choice Missouri, National Council of Jewish Women - St. Louis, Robin Utz (Defending Grace), Sarah Felts, Scott Intagliata, SEIU MO/KS State Council

Getting that one little shot could save your life! Denise Hooks-Anderson, M.D., FAAFP, is associate professor at SLUCare Family Medicine and the medical accuracy editor of The St. Louis American. Email yourhealthmatters@ stlamerican.com.

Middle school students donate fresh food to food pantry

Be a Tourist in Your Own Town

St. Louis Convention and

What to do this winter in St. Louis

By Kiara Bryant

For the St. Louis American

From family-friendly entertainment to annual celebrations, don’t miss all that St. Louis has to offer throughout the winter season.

With New Year’s Eve right around the corner, St. Louis has plenty of places to celebrate at including Ballpark Village, Marriott St Louis Airport, Hollywood Casino, The Hyatt Regency at the Arch, Three Sixty Rooftop Bar, Gateway Arch Riverboats, The New Ambassador and many other locations.

We encourage you to make the most of the season as the fun is just getting started in 2020.

‘Tis the season for winter sports with ice skating at Steinberg Ice Skating Rink in Forest Park and Winterfest (until Jan. 26) downtown. This time of year is also perfect for hitting the slopes at Hidden Valley Ski Resort in Wildwood. Museums are always a good choice especially for those who’d rather stay inside. In that case, The Magic House and City Museum are great places to visit with your family this time of year. Don’t miss your chance to catch “Thomas & Friends: Explore the Rails” exhibit at The Magic House before it closes on Jan. 5. But wait, a new exhibit, “Curious George Let’s Get Curious!” opens Jan. 18 at The Magic House. At the City Museum, “Fluente – An Underseas Circus Adventure” presented by Circus Harmony takes place Jan. 18-19 and 25-26. This circus show is not just for children. While the age range of the performers is eight to 21 years old, these young people perform professional level circus arts.

As we reflect on the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on Jan. 20, the Missouri History Museum will hold a MLK Community

Celebration throughout the weekend featuring Youth Activism and Engagement Workshops, movement workshops, peace-inspired art, stories and book giveaways.

The Black Rep’s 43rd season continues in 2020 with “Two Trains Running” (Jan. 8-26).

In this show by playwright August Wilson, history unfolds around everyday lives against the backdrop of the civil rights movement.

“Nick Jr. Live! Move to the Music” arrives in St. Louis at the Stifel Theatre, Jan. 11-12 featuring your child’s favorite characters from Bubble Guppies, PAW Patrol, Dora the Explorer and more. This one-of-a-kind adventure is sure to be exciting for the whole family.

Want to browse the latest vehicles in 2020?

Look no further than the STL Auto Show featuring The Motorcycle Show (Jan. 23- 26) at the America’s Center Convention Complex. As the largest automobile event in the St. Louis area, you’ll see more than 500 new cars, trucks, SUVs and luxury vehicles all under one roof. This annual event has joined forces with the Motor Cycle Show providing you with two shows for one price.

In the various neighborhoods of St. Louis you can find many community festivals.

Happening in University City is The Loop Ice Carnival (Jan. 17-19) offering family friendly activities like game booths, ice slides, ice carving demonstrations and more.

These are just a few ideas to help you explore what awaits in your own town this New Year. The 2020 Official St. Louis Visitors Guide is coming soon, so stay tuned. For information on more upcoming events, visit www.explorestlouis.com.

Join the Art Museum for its Annual Celebrations

The Saint Louis Art Museum will present its annual Kwanzaa celebration on Sunday, December 29. The Museum’s Kwanzaa celebration is themed Unity in Diversity and the day’s activities will include a family art activity, photo booth, auditorium performance, and a self-guided scavenger hunt based on the Nguzo Saba. The activities begin at noon. The with a Kwanzaa themed scavenger hunt takes place in the Contemporary galleries and will feature works of art by prominent African American artists such as Kehinde Wiley and Kerry James

FREE KWANZAA CELEBRATION

Sunday, December 29, noon-4 pm

Learn the 7 Kwanzaa principles with a gallery hunt. Make your own zawadi (gift) art activity.

FREE PERFORMANCES

The Farrell Auditorium • Showtime: 2 pm (Doors open at 1:30 pm)

Free, but tickets are required. Tickets will be available at the Museum on December 29 starting at noon.

Kunama Mtendaji, Director of Nanfoule Folklore Society (St. Louis Chapter), Dr. Sean Nichols, Principal, Charles Sumner High School

Marshall. The scavenger hunts is is available at the Museum during the duration of Kwanzaa, from December 26 to January 1, 2020. Those families who participate in the scavenger hunt on December 29 can redeem a prize. The family art activity takes place in Grigg Gallery from noon to 4 pm. Kwanzaa: Unity in Diversity is presented in collaboration with the St. Louis Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. The event is free; tickets are required for the auditorium performance.

The Saint Louis Art Museum invites you to attend its annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Celebration on January 17, 2020. Inspired by the vision and work of Dr. King and the collection of abstract art by Black artists donated to the Museum by Ronald and Monique Ripley Ollie. Tuliza Fleming, Interim Chief Curator of Visual Arts at the National Museum of African American History and Culture, Smithsonian Institution in Washington DC will present the keynote address, The Intersection between Art and Social Justice. There will be musical performances by Dello Thedford and the Gospel Symphonic Choir and Ronald Ollie, collector and vocalist. The MLK Celebration is supported by the Ronald M. and Monique M. Ollie Education Endowment Fund for Abstraction by Black Artists and the Trio Foundation of St. Louis.

Tickets to the King Freedom Celebration are free, but seating is limited. Advance tickets recommended. King Celebration tickets may be reserved in person at the Museum’s Information Centers or through MetroTix at metrotix.com or 314.534.1111. All tickets reserved through MetroTix incur a service charge; the service charge is waived for tickets reserved at the Museum. Same day tickets, if available, can be obtained on-site only.

The City Museum is a great place to visit with your family this time of year.

Don Rice, Martin Luther King, Jr., halflength portrait, facing left, speaking at microphones, during anti-war demonstration, New York City, 1967; World Journal Tribune photo, Library of Congress Prints and

Under a new plan that St. Louis Treasurer Tishaura O. Jones will roll out in 2020, people with outstanding parking tickets who sign up quickly for a payment plan and make monthly payments on time will avoid getting booted and towed.

Coming in 2020: payment plans for parking tickets

St. Louis treasurer aims to enforce laws but avoid booting or towing

By Chris King Of The St. Louis American

If your parking tickets in the City of St. Louis has been piling up, then St. Louis Treasurer Tishaura O. Jones has a plan for you – a payment plan.

The new program, which will go into effect in 2020, will allow fines and penalties to be paid over a period of months in order to avoid booting or towing. Parkers must still follow applicable laws, sign up quickly for a payment plan, and make monthly payments on time to avoid getting booted and towed.

“Everyone cannot afford to pay for outstanding parking tickets all at once, and I don’t want someone to lose their vehicle over minor violations,” Jones said in a statement.

n “We can do two things at once: enforce local law and keep the needs of the community in mind.”

– St. Louis Treasurer Tishaura O. Jones

“Many St. Louisans depend on their cars to get to work and support their families. We can do two things at once: enforce local law and keep the needs of the community in mind.”

Jones said that the new policy answers a call to action in the Ferguson Commission report, which recommended that government officials “establish effective alternatives to jail

Monsanto is now Bayer – and the Monsanto YMCA is now the Bayer YMCA. And it will receive a $2.5 million renovation thanks to a $1.5 million grant from Bayer and an anonymous donor gift of $1 million. When completed, the Bayer YMCA, located at 5555 Page Blvd. in North St. Louis, will include an expanded Early Childhood Education Center, expanded health and wellness services, the addition of a new STEM & Teen Technology Center, community kitchen and family changing room.

An expanded fitness area and new fitness programs will allow more individuals to take part in the Y’s Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring, Diabetes Prevention and other chronic disease prevention programs to meet growing community needs.

The new technology center will offer robotics and coding classes, STEM camps and family STEM nights. This addition will also allow for increased enrollment in the Learning Labs program, which allow students who are underperforming in reading or math to improve.

The STEM Focused Community Kitchen and

Feleccia MooreDavis joined St. Louis Community College (STLCC) as campus president and chief academic officer at STLCCMeramec. She is responsible for implementing the College’s academic plan and leading daily operations of the campus. Most recently, she served as provost and vice president for academic affairs at Tallahassee Community College in Florida. She has more than 20 years of experience in higher education, from teaching to administrative roles, within community colleges.

Dalychia Saah joined the Brown School of Social Work at Washington University in St. Louis as a lecturer in the teaching track. She is a sexuality educator, writer, and speaker who is passionate about people unlearning oppressive societal norms. Saah is the co-founder of Afrosexology, a pleasure-based sex education platform that creates educational content and workshops to center the pleasure, empowerment, and liberation of black people.

time, fines, and fees for violations of municipal ordinances, including payment plans and community service.”

She said that drivers should still expect to pay all fines for violations while booting and towing practices are under review during the planning process.

Payment plans for parking ticket scofflaws is Jones’ second policy response to a Ferguson Commission call to action. In 2015, she introduced the College Kids program, which is funded with residual parking revenue, families’ contributions, and donations from the public. The commission called for “progressive universal Child Development Accounts.” Research shows these types of accounts make students three times

See TICKETS, B2

of

Alexis Burnett has joined ARCHS as director of Family Support Initiatives. She will support a portfolio of ARCHS’ funded and strategically enhanced workforce development initiatives. She will provide intensive technical support to ARCHS’ funded organizations that deliver skills training and job placement services. Most recently, Burnett served as a Contracts Compliance officer for the City of St. Louis. She has a master’s degree from Concordia University of Wisconsin and a bachelor’s degree from Maryville University.

Dominic Dorsey was appointed to chair the Illinois Board of Higher Education’s (IBHE) newly formed Disability Services Advisory Committee. He is director of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s office of Accessible Campus Community and Equitable Student Support. The group will review current policies and practices in serving students with disabilities in Illinois higher education. It consists of 18 members, 12 from public universities, four from private colleges and universities, and two from community colleges.

Nikki Spotts will be honored as Art Educator of the Year by the Arts and Education Council. She teaches at Shaw VPA Elementary School as the dance director and arts department chairperson. She has taught dance at a variety of community centers and dance studios, as well as afterschool programs, master classes, colleges and universities, and teaches in her own dance company, The Nikki Bradford Dance Ensemble. On the move? Congratulations! Send your good professional news and

Photo by Wiley Price

Tim Helm, president and CEO, Gateway Region YMCA; Brad Koeneman, board chairman, Gateway Region YMCA; Marcus Wilson, executive director, Bayer YMCA; Al Mitchell, vice president of Corporate Engagement, Bayer; St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson; Jace Williams, 4-year-old YMCA Early Childhood Student; Alderman Jeffrey Boyd; and Wendy Cornet-Marquitz, senior Vice President

Metro Transit workers approve contract offer

Contract is ‘fair and good,’ says Metro Transit executive director

By Kae M. Petrin

Of St. Louis Public Radio

Union workers for the St. Louis region’s transit agency voted on December 17 to accept Metro Transit’s latest contract proposal, ending months of negotiations.

The new contract increases wages and benefits by more than $26 million over its threeyear term. The deal will affect the wages and benefits of more than 1,500 workers across the bi-state St. Louis area, including vehicle operators and mechanics.

Jessica Mefford-Miller, Metro Transit’s executive director, said the contract is “fair and good” and “rewards our employees for the hard work that they do each year.” She said the contract also will help attract and retain employees.

The contract includes new terms for medical benefits and sick leave. Miller said she hoped those changes would address the concerns of union members who voted against previous versions of the contract.

Union members in October had turned down what Metro Transit then called its “best and final offer” and later hired a federal mediator to help with negotiations.

Reginald Howard, president of Amalgamated Transit Union Local 788, said he and the other union representatives are pleased with the contract.

“There was a lot of work put into this,” he said. “I don’t want to toot the horn.”

He said his biggest concern was the payment structure for the medical benefits. Union representatives were concerned that older versions of the plan weren’t specific

enough about what happened to overpayments. But Howard said the newest version of the contract will use overpayments to subsidize benefits. The contract also grants

drivers a 10-minute window to arrive and sign in for their shifts, he said. Howard said he thinks the new pay structure will attract more employees. Current

employees will receive raises in January and July 2020, and new hires will start at higher pay rates, he said. Howard said the union still hopes to work with Metro to

People gathered outside the Amalgamated Transit Union 788 in October after rejecting an employment contract. Union workers voted on December 17 to accept Metro Transit’s latest contract proposal.

improve safety and bathroom breaks for drivers. Follow Kae on Twitter: @ kmaepetrin. Reprinted with permission from news.stlpublicradio.org.

KAI Build to renovate Maryland Heights Fire Headquarters

KAI Build, a minorityowned business, broke ground on a renovation and addition project at the Maryland Heights Fire Protection District Headquarters Engine House One in Maryland Heights on December 10. KAI Build is the general contractor on the project, which is expected to be completed by the end of 2020. FGM Architects, Inc. was the architect on the project. Plans for the project include a complete upgrade of the existing 22-year-old, 18,902-square-foot firehouse located at 2600 Schuetz Rd., plus a 2,112-squarefoot living quarters addition

Bayer YMCA

continued from page B1

expanded community garden will provide more education and food outreach in a community recognized as a food desert and in need of

and a 4,300-square-foot apparatus support addition on the east and north sides of the building. The new design includes more capacity for emergency equipment, improved operational areas, a severe weather safe room, living quarters that promote gender equity, dedicated

healthy eating resources.

“This YMCA branch is a beacon for the North St. Louis community,” Al Mitchell, vice president of Corporate Engagement for Bayer said in a statement. “Over the years, it has provided much needed services to combat violence, health disparities and develop educational opportunities outside of the classroom.”

decontamination area with specialized gear extractors, and removal and replacement of all mechanical, electrical, plumbing and fire protection components. The fire apparatus and ambulance will continue to run out of Engine House One without disruption to

n “This YMCA branch is a beacon for the North St. Louis community.”

– Al Mitchell, vice president of Corporate Engagement for Bayer

By whatever name, this facility has a history. After

emergency services during the construction process. The administration offices will be temporarily relocated to 11911 Adie Road in Maryland Heights, courtesy of World Wide Technology. The project was made possible by a bond passed by voters for capital purchases.

several attempts, it was founded in 1912 as the AfroAmerican Young Men’s Christian Home Association. In 1964, it’s Junior Kindergarten program, which was initiated as part of the White House’s program on early education, became a model for the national Head Start program.

“We are excited to be part of such a transformational project for the Maryland Heights Fire Protection District and the residents it serves by helping to build this state-of-the-art facility for its firefighters and staff,” said Steve Kizer, Director of Field Operations for KAI Build.

“Bayer believes health and education are great equalizers for the obstacles many families may face,” Mitchell stated. “Our hope is that this investment will continue the great work this branch has demonstrated since our initial commitment in 1981.”

Tickets

continued from page B1 more likely to attend college and four times more likely to graduate than children without savings, Jones noted. College Kids has helped over 16,000 public school students start educational savings accounts, now holding assets over $1.1 million.

Jones also asks banks who do business with the city to report annually on their progress delivering on specific recommendations of the Ferguson Commission.

College Kids is a program with the Office of Financial Empowerment (OFE), which Jones opened in 2014. She said the office has organized over 300 financial empowerment workshops with over 6,000 participants on credit and money management. It also publishes an Alternative Lending Guide that lists alternatives to payday loans.

Jones also has announced a $15 minimum wage for all departments she oversees.

Photo by Andrea Smith / St. Louis Public Radio

n “No one wants to come to Baltimore and no one wants to play us.”

— Baltimore Ravens Quarterback Robert Griffin III, on the upcoming NFL Playoff

Sports

Holiday basketball tournaments are underway

The holiday season is upon us, which means families getting together, Christmas presents being opened and of course, the glut of holiday basketball tournaments around the St. Louis metro area. Here is a brief summary of the holiday tournaments that are going on around the area: Legends of Winter, at SLUH (December 26-29)

Top Four Seeds: CBC, Cardinal Ritter, McCluer, Hazelwood Central Championship Game: Sunday, December 29, 6 p.m.

Earl Austin Jr.

Defending Champion: Cardinal Ritter Players to Watch: Caleb Love (CBC), Devon Barshow (McCluer), Jordan Nesbitt (St. Louis Christian), Nate Garrett (Hazelwood Central), Mario Fleming (Cardinal Ritter), Jalen Hampton (University City), DeMarion Shanklin (Jennings)

Coaches vs. Cancer, at Lafayette (December 26-30)

Top Four Seeds: Mehlville, DeSmet, Webster Groves, Fort Zumwalt North Championship Game, Monday, December 30, 8 p.m.

Defending Champion: Webster Groves Players to Watch: Davion Bradford (Mehlville), Dylan Branson (Mehlville), Yaya Keita (DeSmet), Ryan Campbell (Lafayette), Jacobie Banks (Webster Groves), Sekou Gassama (DeSmet), KJ Lee (Fort Zumwalt North), Braden Nett (Troy)

MICDS (December 26-30)

Top Four Seeds: Trinity, Francis

in

With James came massive expectations. Those expectations proved too much for Johnson. As he stood tasked with the tasks of firing Luke Walton and trying to negotiate a trade with the New Orleans Pelicans for Anthony Davis, Johnson got sick and tired of being sick and tired. On April 9, before the Lakers’ final game of the season, Johnson channeled his inner SpongeBob SquarePants,

Christmas season is here. Chances are, you’ve already opened your gifts, stuffed your belly, gone through the Temptations Christmas album at least nine times and spread plenty of holly, jolly Christmas cheer. I intended to send a heartfelt, thoughtful, drip-infused gift to each and every reader of In the Clutch However, the way my bank account is set up… Luckily for me, sports does not wait until Christmas time to bless us with amazing gifts. Sports give us great excitement, laughs, astonishment, joy, memories and memes all year long. Therefore I have decided to re-gift my favorite sports moments from 2020. Magic Johnson pulls a SpongeBob Magic Johnson took over as the Los Angeles Lakers’ team president in February of 2017. His mission was twofold. First, he was tasked to restore the lost luster to the storied franchise by luring superstar players. Once those players were onboard, they would need to transform the struggling team into a championship contender. Johnson achieved his primary goal by convincing LeBron James to sign a four-year deal with the

Ishmael H. Sistrunk

Cardinal Ritter’s Glenn Valentine (1) takes a one-handed shot under Mehlville’s Davion Bradford (24) at the Midwest Showdown Shootout at Roberts Gym on the campus of Webster Groves High on Saturday, Dec. 21. Mehlville went on to defeat the Lions of Cardinal Ritter 62-56.

Photo by Wiley Price

SportS EyE

With Alvin A. Reid

Celebration Bowl showcases best in HBCU athletics and academics

North Carolina A&T coach Sam Washington is the antithesis of today’s young offensive-minded head coaches being hired to lead college and NFL football teams.

He’s middle-aged, a defensive stalwart and a former defensive back for the Pittsburgh Steelers under the late Chuck Noll. He’s a no-nonsense guy and his team means business.

The second-year head coach is now 2-0 in the Celebration Bowl, the annual bowl game in Atlanta that features the respective Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) and the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) champions.

Last Saturday’s contest gave Alcorn State a chance to avenge Celebration Bowl losses to A&T in 2015 and 2018 contests. Once again, they fell short.

the game’s MVP after tossing six touchdown passes with no interceptions and adding 96 yards rushing.

Aggies running back Jah-

Maine Martin gained 110 yards, and his two touchdowns included a 75-yard scamper that opened the third quarter.

Carter’s main target was wide receiver Korey Banks, who also registered two touchdowns and 122 receiving yards.

Washington said his team “won the third quarter,” by scoring four touchdowns compared to three for Alcorn.

“It’s people. And it’s players. That’s what it’s all about,” he said.

A special game The Celebration Bowl is John Grant’s baby.

In a wild game that included a seven-touchdown third quarter, A&T prevailed 64-44 before more than 32,000 raucous fans.

A&T has played in four of the last five Celebration Bowls. You would think the Aggies would tire of this game and trip to Atlanta, but Washington nor the Aggies’ fan base are buying that.

“We’ll never have a team like that,” Washington said during a Friday press conference before the game.

“I can tell you. That’ll never happen.”

What did happen before a national TV audience on ABC (Channel 30) was a treat for viewers – and, based on last year’s ratings, there were lots of them.

QB Kylil Carter was named

It is owned by ESPN, but Grant, the game’s executive director and Atlanta civic leader makes sure its importance to Atlanta, the competing schools and college football never wanes.

“As we communicate to not only the city but also the officials of the state, there are only two Division I HBCU conferences,” Grant said in a November interview.

“There are only two. So, this game can’t be duplicated. It is an asset. There can only be one, and we now have it.”

The game, which comes early in the college bowl season, has caught on with fans –most of which have never been on an HBCU campus let alone seen a football game between HBCU schools.

According to the Football Foundation, the 2018 Celebration Bowl had a better TV rating than 13 of the FBS 39 bowl games. Its mark was nearly equal to five other

games including Auburn vs. Purdue and Minnesota vs. Georgia Tech.

Saturday’s announced attendance of 32,968 – the game’s second-highest to date – will surpass many other early bowls.

As a HBCU coach before taking the helm at A&T, Washington favored participating in the FCS playoffs. He quickly changed his mind in favor of a Celebration Bowl visit.

“When you go to the playoffs, you lose money,” Washington told the Greensboro (N.C.) News and Record last week.

“That’s the reality. We’d have to get to the quarterfinals just to break even.”

In 2016, the Aggies lost to Richmond 39-10 in the first round of the FCS playoffs and, after travel and lodging expenses, came out in the red.

Washington has not lost his zeal to compete with the best FCS teams in the nation. The Aggies will play FCS power North Dakota State next year.

The Bison have won seven of the last eight FCS national titles and are a favorite to win the 2019 title.

Top grade exposure

Todd Simmons, A&T associate vice chancellor for university relations, told the Observer the Celebration Bowl shines a light on the school’s outstanding academic achievements.

“Anytime you get national exposure for the brand, it increases the interest of folks who want to affiliate with that university, either as students or supporters,” Simmons said.

“As we’ve gone to the bowl multiple times, we’ve set records in applications and enrollment and continue to grow as the nation’s largest African American university. It puts us on national television and drives viewers to our websites. It helps all our departments and our research.”

Back on the football side, Alcorn coach and former star quarterback Fred McNair calls the game, “top-of-the-line from every angle.”

“Just playing in the Celebration Bowl (for the third time in five years) gives us an edge on some SWAC teams in terms of recruiting. It’s been good for us, man.”

Grant said, “There isn’t a (SWAC or MEAC) coach or an athletic director or a university president or chancellor who doesn’t say, ‘Our goal is to get to Atlanta.’”

See what you missed

In 2017, the Chicago Bears’ front office was so determined to draft North Carolina quarterback Mitch Trubisky that GM Ryan Pace offered the San Francisco 49ers draft picks Nos. 3, 67 and 111 picks, as

well as Chicago›s third-round pick in the 2018 to move up to No. 2 in the NFL draft.

He reportedly didn’t bother to even interview either Clemson’s Deshaun Watson or Texas Tech’s Patrick Mahomes.

Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid had spotted the gem of the draft in Mahomes and maneuvered to get him in that same draft at No. 10 – much lower than Trubisky and for far less a price.

Bears fans have been irate with their team’s shortsightedness as Trubisky continues to struggle while Mahomes and Jackson have shined.

Mahomes, the NFL 2018 MVP, showcased his talent on Sunday night in Chicago and led the Chiefs to a 26-3 win over the Beats before a soldout Soldier Field and national TV audience.

Mahomes led the Chiefs on a 15-play, 82-yard touchdown drive on their first possession of the game, capping the drive with a 12-yard touchdown run on third-and-5.

He finished 22 for 33, 251 yards with two TD passes and the rushing TD.

After Mahomes’ first touchdown pass, he ran to the sideline while counting to 10 on his fingers. It was a reminder to the Bears where he went in the draft compared to Trubisky.

Asked about it after the game, Mahomes said, “I was just out there having fun. I was just trying to enjoy it. I play with emotion. I like to go out there and have fun with my teammates.”

He said the celebration was not planned – but he was aware of the history of that 2017 draft.

“Anyone that goes about it as a competitor wants to be the first guy, but you know that there’s a process to it,” he said.

“Not everyone’s gonna be picked first. I ended up in a great situation in Kansas City, a situation where I wanted to be and an organization that took me and made me the best player that I could be at this time. I’m just excited that I’m here now.”

Matt Nagy was in his final season as Reid’s offensive coordinator during the 2017 season when Mahomes started only one game late in the season. Alex Smith was the team’s starter before he was traded to Washington and Mahomes assumed the starting role. Nagy was named Bears head coach in January 2018 – and inherited Trubisky.

“Trubisky was forgettable once again Sunday night after completing 18-of-34 passes for 157 yards (and no touchdowns),” wrote Bryan Perez of NBC Sports Chicago.

“For general manager Ryan Pace, it was an outcome he never could’ve imagined. He graded the inexperienced yet physically gifted North Carolina product as the best passer in the class, ranking him over Mahomes and Watson. Through their first three seasons in the NFL, it’s become obvious that it was a terrible decision.”

The Reid Roundup Dexter Fowler was named to the Chicago Cubs AllDecade team this week as leadoff batter. Since leaving for St. Louis following the 2016 season, the Cubs have used 17 different leadoff batters… A nice 63-56 win for Missouri over Illinois in the Braggin’ Rights basketball game last Saturday in St. Louis. Cuonzo Martin’s team was never really threatened… Also a nice win for Travis Ford and Saint Louis University over Kansas State 66-63 in Kansas City… New Orleans Saints receiver Michael Thomas set a new single-season reception record (144) in his team’s 38-28 victory at Tennessee on Sunday… While it is totally unnecessary because his team has earned home field advantage throughout the playoffs, Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson wants to play Sunday against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Hopefully coach John Harbaugh gives him a hard no… HAPPY NEW YEAR.

Alvin A. Reid was honored as the 2017 “Best Sports Columnist – Weeklies” in the Missouri Press Association’s Better Newspaper Contest and is a New York Times contributor. He is a panelist on the Nine Network program, Donnybrook, a weekly contributor to “The Charlie Tuna Show” on KFNS and appears monthly on “The Dave Glover Show” on 97.1 Talk.” His Twitter handle is @aareid.

Alvin A. Reid

In 2017, Chicago Bears GM Ryan Pace overlooked Patrick Mahomes in favor of Mitch Trubisky with the second pick in the NFL Draft. As of 2019, that decision has turned out to be a huge blunder.

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Continued from B3

stellar season was enough to Euro step his way around James Harden and propel the “Greek Freak” to become the NBA MVP at just 24 years old.

Antetokounmpo is not just resting on his laurels in the first half of the 2019-20 season either. Thus far, he is averaging 31 points, 12.9 rebounds, 5.6 assists, 1.3 steals and 1.2 blocks per game. It is clear that Antetokounmpo put in serious work on his three point shot in the offseason. This season he is knocking down 34.2 percent of his 5.1 three point attempts per game. Last season, he made 25.6 percent of his 2.8 attempts per game. Through Sunday (Dec. 22), the Bucks boasted a 27-4 record – tops in the league. That puts the team on pace to win more than 70 games this season. It is highly unlikely the Bucks will keep that pace across 82 games. Still, landing anywhere near 70 games would likely guarantee another MVP trophy in 2020.

‘Scholarship High’ wins state title

As a proud graduate of Lutheran North, I dare not leave the Crusaders’ first state championship in 20 years off the list. It’s amazing that the Crusaders had been shut out of a state title since 1999. Historically, Lutheran North has fielded strong teams on the gridiron.

When Coach Carl Reed took over the program three years ago, he helped elevate the Crusaders to another level. After limiting Ava to just three first downs and 66 total yards in a dominating 49-0 victory in the state championship game, it is safe to say the level-up is complete.

Maybe more impressively, the small 2A school continues to send its players to major Division I programs. This season, Antonio Doyle signed with Texas A&M, Itayvion Brown signed with the University of Minnesota and Cameron Griffin has committed to Western Michigan. It is likely that many other players

Continued from B3

Howell, MICDS, Parkway South Championship Game, Monday, December 30, 7:30 p.m.

Defending Champion: Trinity Players to Watch: Ryan Kalkbrenner (Trinity), Rashad Weekly-McDaniels (Trinity), Matt Schark (Francis Howell), Jaylen Boyd (Ladue), Devion Harris (Parkway Central), Jack Pronger (MICDS), Kristian Davis (Christian-O’Fallon), Sam Richardson (Hancock), Jorden Williams (Whitfield). Collinsville (December 27-30)

Top Four Seeds: Collinsville, O’Fallon, Belleville East, Springfield Southeast Championship Game: Monday, December 30, 7:30 p.m.

Defending Champion: Springfield Southeast Players to Watch: Ray’Sean Taylor (Collinsville), Shaun Riley (O’Fallon), Braxton Stacker (Belleville East), Luke Cox (Triad)

will commit and/or sign to play football at the next level in the coming months. Now, “Scholarship High” is once again championship high.

Zion breaks out

One of the biggest events in college basketball (outside the NCAA Tournament) is Duke versus North Carolina. Back in February, the two college basketball titans faced off on national TV. It was the first Duke versus UNC matchup for heralded freshman (and eventual No. 1 draft pick) Zion Williamson

Instead of the high-flying,

St. Dominic (December 27-30)

Top Four Seeds: Sikeston, St. Dominic, Fort Zumwalt South, Holt

Championship Game: Monday, December 30, 6:30 p.m.

Defending Champion: Sikeston

Players to Watch: JJ Schwepker (Fort Zumwalt South), Payton Howard (Sikeston), Anthony Lewis (St. Dominic), Jaylen Ashford (Holt), Brendan Deters (St. Dominic), Clay Steward (Sikeston), Emmanuel McLemore (Holt), Myles Estrada (Howell Central), John Wilson (St. Charles West).

Top Girls Tournaments

Visitation (December 26-28)

Top Four Seeds: Incarnate Word, Edwardsville, Parkway Central, Kirkwood Championship Game, December 28, 8 p.m.

Defending Champion: Incarnate Word

Players to Watch: Jayla Kelly (Parkway Central), Ellie Vanzanna (Incarnate Word), Saniah Tyler (Incarnate Word), Natalie Bruns (Kirkwood), Kelsey Blakemore (Whitfield), Sydney Harris (Edwardsville), Faith Bland (Metro), Jakayla Kirk (Hazelwood

Omarion Henry

Normandy – Boys Basketball

The standout junior forward had a pair of big performances in Vikings’ victories last week.

gravity-defying show that everyone expected, Williamson made memories another way.

The 6-foot-6, 285-pound freak of nature attempted to make a hard cut and his Nike shoe and disintegrated in front of thousands of fans and millions of eyes. Williamson was injured and could not finish the game.

Injuries have also postponed his NBA debut. Still, the exploding shoe is a moment that basketball fans will never forget.

Blues win the championship

As a kid, I stayed up many

Central), Brooke Highmark (Westminster), Mackenzie Rhodes (Parkway North)

MICDS (December 26-30)

Top Four Seeds: Ladue, MICDS, Fort Zumwalt North, Collinsville Championship Game, Monday, December 30, 6 p.m.

Defending Champion: Ladue

Players to Watch: Jordan Peete (Ladue), Jessica Brooks (MICDS), Mia Collins (Ladue), Zaire Harrell (MICDS), Jaden Stahl (Fort Zumwalt North), Kelsey Macker (Pattonville), Caite Knutson (Collinsville)

St. Dominic (December 27-30)

Top Four Seeds: Francis Howell Central, Lutheran-St. Charles, Holt, Fort Zumwalt South Championship Game: Monday, December 30, 4:30 p.m.

Defending Champion: Francis Howell Central

Players to Watch: Azaria Hulbert (Howell Central), Jenna Grzeskowiak (Lutheran St. Charles), Sofia Tweedie (Howell Central), Jaliyah Green (Holt), Mia Nicastro (St. Charles West), Mahya Lindesmith (Lutheran-St. Charles), Maddie Murphy (Fort Zumwalt South)

The 6’7” Henry had 30 points and 13 rebounds in a 65-51 victory over Northwest. He also had 23 points in a 65-58 victory over St. Charles West in the The ST. LouiS AmericAn PreP AThLeTe of The Week

GAC-Suburban Challenge at Lindenwood University. For the season, Henry is averaging 22 points and 6.8 rebounds a game in leading the Vikings to a 4-2 record. The Vikings will open play in their own Normandy Tournament on Thursday.

Despite a history of good teams and a 25-season streak of playoff appearance from 1980 – 2004, the Blues never won a

Stanley Cup – until 2019. To make the victory more impressive, the team went from worstto-first to pull off the staggering feat.

Once Lord Stanley’s Cup finally made its way to STL, the metro area showed up and showed out. More than 500K folks showed up downtown to witness the team’s victory parade. As 2020 approaches, this current Blues team is showing

that last season’s championship was no fluke. Through 37 games, the Blues’ 23-8-6 record (52 points) is best in the league and gives the team a real chance to repeat as champions in 2020. For more of 2019’s greatest gifts in sports, check out the latest video featuring Ishmael and Melvin Moore at youyube. com/stlamericanvideo. To follow In the Clutch online, visit stlamerican.com.

nights watching the St. Louis Blues play on Channel 11. I remember watching players like Brett Hull, Brendan Shanahan, Curtis Joseph, Grant Fuhr and Al MacInnis roam the ice for the Blue Notes. Even the great Wayne Gretzky suited up one season in St. Louis.

Photo by The St. Louis Blues

More than 500K fans flooded downtown St. Louis to celebrate the team’s first Stanley Cup championship.

Marchelle Vernell, Sarah DeWilde, Earline Shephard, Kellie Allen and Danny Ritter celebrate the National Nurses Organizing Committee/National Nurses United’s new three-and-a-half-year contract with SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital.

SLUH nurses sign three-and-a-halfyear contract

nurses at SSM Health Saint Louis

Hospital overwhelmingly ratified a new three-and-a-halfyear contract on December 13. Highlights of the contract, according to the National Nurses Organizing Committee/ National Nurses United, include:

Supporting safe staffing for safe patient care. The new contract includes new advocacy language and maintains the staffing committee to protect patients.

Short-term disability and maternity leave benefits. Nurses won a new employer-paid short-term disability plan and maternity leave.

Economic gains and health benefit protections. The new contract includes across-theboard pay increases of 8 to 31 percent, with a 19 percent median increase over the threeand-a-half-year term, with additional wage step increases. Previous wages had been 10 percent below market. The contract also retains health benefits, with no takeaways.

“Despite Missouri repealing laws and regulations on patient rights and staffing, we were able to secure in our contract RN-led staffing committees that can hold management accountable to its staffing plans,” Sarah DeWilde, an RN who has worked for three years in the ICU at the hospital, said

in a statement.

“We also won language that affirms our rights as our patients’ advocates in the facility and which allows us to speak up when management is not acting in the best interests of our patients.”

Earline Shepherd, an emergency room nurse at SLUH, said in a statement, “Through our strike vote, we won increases that will help us retain and recruit nurses who will fill the positions we need to give the safe standards of care our patients deserve.”

National Nurses Organizing Committee/National Nurses United represents nearly 700 nurses at Saint Louis University Hospital.

Financial Focus

By Harsh Patel, AAMS

A few favorites from 2019

By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American

So, it’s that time where we are expected to share what we enjoyed most – or least – about the year. In the words of Kendrick Lamar, I will “keep it on a high note” – mainly because there was so much good that I don’t have room for the bad. Local and national are in the spotlight as I look back over what I enjoyed about my entertainment experiences this year. Ready. Set. Go.

In concert – The Royalty Tour starring Mary J. Blige and Nas at Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre. The Queen of Hip-Hop Soul and a rap king gave an electrifying experience when they co-headlined at the Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre over the summer. They were both at the top of their game on stage –even if I could have stood for a few more hits from Nas.

A close second: Brian Owens’ Michael

By Kenya Vaughn

Of The St. Louis American

“I want you to keep in mind as you think about her resume and all that she’s done, that this young lady is only 15 years old,” St. Louis Symphony IN UNISON Chorus director Kevin McBeth told the crowd at Powell Hall on Thursday as he introduced the 2019 guest soloist Kennedy Holmes. She received an ovation before she emerged on stage. It was the second of an expanded twonight performance of their annual “A Gospel Christmas” holiday concert. And now among the esteemed roster of previous headliners that have included music legends, is a hometown voice that many consider to be a legend in the making after her fourth-place finish on NBC’s “The Voice” last year. And the 9th grader from John Burroughs gave a performance that will be remembered among the great ones. Somehow

Best of the year in concerts, film, music and more

McDonald Art for LIFE Arts Inc. benefit con-

cert. When Owens promoted the show with the presentation of a Lifetime Achievement Award to Ferguson native Michael McDonald for its fundraiser, I thought he was going to accept his award, sing one song and sit down. Instead, McDonald, Owens, the young artists that are involved in his program and special guest

Kennedy Holmes gave the audience an unforgettable stroll through his catalog of classics. Lizzo live at third: She was not a household name yet, but the buzz was growing to where we were lucky to book her for The Pageant to the point where the show sold-out the same day. But then the BET Awards happened and Lizzo became 100 percent that chick (edited for print) to the masses and full on phenomenon thanks to her MTV VMA performance. She kept her intimate-ish gig at The Pageant – and proved worthy of the entertainment success story of the year.

Honorable mentions: An Evening of Soul with Eric Benet, Vivian Green and Anthony Hamilton, Mariah Carey, Lenny Kravitz, Gary Clark Jr.

On stage – “Fire Shut Up in My Bones.” Shout out to Terence Blanchard for the opera, Kasi Lemmons for the libretto and Charles Blow for being open to share his book remixed

See 2019, C4

Art and advocacy

Griot exhibit lends visual interpretation, historical context to HIV/AIDS

By Kenya Vaughn Of

the St. Louis American

Griot Museum of Black History and Culture founder and director Lois Conley said during the opening reception for the institution’s latest exhibit, “Impact HIV/AIDS,” was rooted in aesthetics. “Initially to me the posters were just very beautiful,” Conley said. “I didn’t know much about the artist at the time and I didn’t know a whole lot about the campaign in West Africa that these were created for. I just knew that the images were very beautiful – and I was struck by the art.”

She had six posters that she wanted to display. As she began doing research and outreach to frame an exhibit around them, she learned that the artist Damballah Dolphus Smith had more of a connection to the disease than she ever could have imagined. He was living with the disease when he created the posters. He passed away from AIDS in 1992. “I was like ‘Oh wow, there’s some real meat to this story,’” Conley said. “This was not some-

See Griot, C4

between semester finals and a winter bug that landed her in urgent care just before the shows, Holmes delivered a stellar showing that proved the hype surrounding her since “The Voice” is well warranted. She had some amazing clutch players in the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, McBeth and his IN UNISON Chorus – and featured soloists. The combination made for a well-rounded Christmas concert that added flavor to some classics, while giving a purist approach in a night that illustrated black church music’s influence in celebrating the season.

Ahead of Holmes portion of the show, IN UNISON and the St. Louis Symphony set the bar high with a crop of songs that demonstrated the cross-cultural musical expression of the Christmas spirit. The music started with John Wasson’s orchestral medley entitled “Festival Fanfare for Christmas.” “Festival Sanctus,” kicked off the choral element of the show. IN UNISON then

15-year-old Kennedy Holmes brought down the house as the headliner for the 2019 St. Louis Symphony IN UNISON Chorus presentation of ‘A Gospel Christmas’ Thursday night at Powell Symphony Hall.

continued with “Ain’t That Good News” and “Hold Out Your Light” as homage to the Negro Spiritual. In somewhat of a break from traditional programming, IN UNISON paid homage to the

African influence of South America with “To the Mothers In Brazil: Salve Regina.” The drumming

See Unison, C4

Photo by Wiley Price

Photo by Lawrence Bryant

Mary J. Blige and Nas delivered the concert of the year when their Royalty Tour landed at Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre at the end of July.

How to place a calendar listing

1. Email your listing to calendar@stlamerican. com OR

2. Visit the calendar section on stlamerican.com and place your listing

Calendar listings are free of charge, are edited for space and run on a space-available basis.

holiday haps

Fri., Dec. 27, 8 p.m., Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Gamma Omega Chapter invites you to their End of the Year Jam. 12365 St. Charles Rock Rd., 63044. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.

Sun., Dec. 29, 12 p.m., St. Louis Art Museum Annual Kwanzaa Celebration. 1 Fine Arts Dr., For more information, visit www.slam. org.

Tues., Dec. 31, 7:30 p.m., BMO Wealth Management New Year’s Eve Celebration. 718 N. Grand Blvd., 63013. For more information, visit www.slso.org.

Tues., Dec. 31, 7 p.m., TSEED Executive Productions invites you to Another Harlem Nights New Year’s Eve Party. Infinite Occasions Banquet Center, 3515 N Lindbergh Blvd., 63074. For more information, visit www.eventbrite.com.

Tues., Dec. 31, 7:30 p.m., Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Upsilon Phi Omega Chapter invites you to their 2019 New Year’s Eve Gala. Omega Center, 3900 Goodfellow Blvd., 63120. For more information, visit www. stlomeganye2019.eventbrite. com.

Tues., Dec. 31, 8 p.m., Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., St. Louis Alumni Chapter New Year’s Eve 2020 Celebration with celebrity DJ Mannie Fresh. Union Station Hotel, 1820 Market St., 63103. For more information, visit www.eventbrite.com.

Tues., Dec. 31, 8 p.m., Dread Out 2019. Jamaican Style New Year’s Eve Bash featuring Infrared Rockers Roots & Culture Record Spin. Rowan Community Center, 1401 Rowan Ave., 63112. For

more information, call (314) 229-7018.

Tues., Dec. 31, 8 p.m., New Year’s Eve Countdown with Kim Massie Band. Skybar, 705 Olive St., 63101. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.

Tues., Dec. 31, 9 p.m., Afrosexycool New Year’s Eve 2020. Ring in a new decade with DJs Blvck Spvde, Makeda Kravitz, DJ Nico Marie, and ASC creator James Biko. Sophie’s Artist Lounge & Cocktail Club, 3224 Locust St., 63103. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.

Wed., Jan. 1, 10 a.m., St. Louis Progressive Missionary Baptist District Association, Inc. presents our 157th Anniversary Emancipation Proclamation Service. Greater Mt. Carmel Missionary Baptist Church, 1617 North Euclid Ave., 63113. For more information, call (314) 7460706.

Through Jan. 2, Winter Wonderland in Tilles Park, view by walking, carriage ride, or vehicle. 9551 Litzsinger Rd., 63124. For more information, visit www. winterwonderlandstl.com.

Through Jan. 4, 5 p.m., Missouri Botanical Garden presents Garden Glow. A million lights surround visitors, enjoy interactive photos, traditional holiday music and festivities, and more. 4344 Shaw Blvd., 63110. For more information, visit www. missouribotanicalgarden.org.

mlk day

Sat., Jan. 11, 6:30 p.m., The 34th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Statewide Celebration Kick-Off Program for Missouri, This year’s theme is “Music – A Universal Stepping Stone Toward Peace,” and will

The Guide

Kenya Vaughn recommends

feature Grammy Award winning Saxophonist & Recording Artist, Kirk Whalum, Harris-Stowe State University in the Dr. Henry Givens, Jr. Administration Building, Main Auditorium, 3026 Laclede.

Fri., Jan. 17, 7 p.m., St. Louis Art Museum Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration. 1 Fine Arts Dr., 63110. For more information, visit www.slam.org.

Mon., Jan. 20, 7 a.m., 35th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration. Keynote speaker, Missouri Chief Justice George Draper. Monsanto Family YMCA, 5555 Page Blvd., 63112. For more information, email charmane. brown@gwrymca.org.

Mon., Jan. 20, 10 a.m., University of Missouri St. Louis invites you to their Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Celebration. Be treated to a morning of inspirational presentation. Touhill Performing Arts Center, One University Blvd., 63121. For more information, visit www.eventbrite.com

Mon., Jan. 20, 5:30 p.m., Coalition of Black Trade Unionists – CBTU Saint Louis Chapter invites you to their 42nd Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Human Rights Awards. Sheet Metal Workers’ Local 36, 2319 Chouteau Ave., 63103. For more information, visit www. facebook.com.

concerts

Fri., Dec. 27, 8 p.m., G-Rated Entertainment presents Nle Choppa feat. Plot Da BigHomie, Buddy Luv, and Derr Derr. The Ambassador, 9800 Halls Ferry Rd., 63136. For more information, visit www.metrotix.com.

Tues., Dec. 31, 7 p.m., New Year’s Eve St. Louis Mega Blues Festival. Feat. Sir Charles Jones, Willie Clayton, Pokey Bear, and Wendell B. Ambassador, 9800 Halls Ferry Rd., 63136. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.

Sat., Jan. 18, 8 p.m., Liquid Assets presents Blac Youngsta. Pop’s Concert

The 34th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Statewide Celebration Kick-Off Program for Missouri featuring Grammywinning saxophonist Kirk Whalum. For more information, see MLK ACTIVITIES.

local gigs

Thur., Dec. 26, 8 p.m., Alvin Youngblood Hart’s Muscle Theory. Off Broadway, 3509 Lemp Ave., 63118. For more information, visit www. offbroadwaystl.com.

Dec. 27 – 28, 7:30 & 9:30 p.m., Jazz at the Bistro presents Good 4 The Soul. Jazz St. Louis, 3536 Washington Ave., 63103. For more information, visit www. jazzstl.org.

Sat., Dec. 28, 7 p.m., Shai Lynn & Phoinix Keyz: 20/20 Vision. Pop’s Concert Venue, 401 Monsanto Ave., Sauget, IL. 62201. For more information, visit www. ticketmaster.com.

Sat., Dec. 28, 8 p.m., Dr. Zhivegas performs the music of Prince and the Revolution. Delmar Hall, 6133 Delmar Blvd., 63112. For more information, visit www. ticketmaster.com.

Thur., Jan. 2, 8 p.m., Joe’s Café Concerts presents Little Dylan. 6008 Kingsbury Ave., 63112. For more information, visit www.facebook.com.

Venue, 401 Monsanto Ave., Sauget, IL. 62201. For more information, visit www. ticketmaster.com.

Sat., Jan. 11, 9 p.m., Rock House Ent. & Black Luxury Ent. present Rick Ross. 6161 Delmar Blvd., 63112. For more information, visit www. thepageant.com.

Fri., Jan. 17, 7 p.m., The Sheldon Folk Series presents Ruthie Foster with special guest Clayton Jones. 3648 Washington Blvd., 63108. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.

Sun., Jan. 17, 7 p.m., Chaifetz Arena presents the MLK Holiday Jam feat. Xscap3, Tamar Braxton, Avant, and more. 1 S. Compton Ave., 63103. For more information, visit www. chaifetzarena.com.

Sat., Jan. 25, 9 p.m., Rockhouse Ent. & Black Luxury present Jeezy. The Pageant, 6161 Delmar Blvd., 63112. For more information, visit www.ticketmaster.com.

Sat., Jan. 4, 8 p.m., Tre G: As I Am. With Katarra Parson, MAXA, Eric Donte, and sounds by DJ HoodBunny. The Grandel, 3610 Grandel Sq., 63108. For more information, visit www.metrotix.com.

Sun., Jan. 26, All Is Fair In Love: An Homage to Stevie Wonder. The Signature Club, 9002 Overland Plz., 63114. For more information, visit www.ifejacobsmusic.com.

Fri., Jan. 3, 6 p.m., Healing Women Ministries invites you to Ain’t No Family Like the One I Got Game Night. A fun night for the entire family. University City Public Library, 6707 Delmar Blvd., 63130. For more information, call (314) 690-5673.

Sun., Jan. 5, 12 p.m., The Wedding Connection Bridal Show. Featuring the top wedding vendors in the area. Chase Park Plaza, 212 Kingshighway Blvd., 63108. For more information, visit www.bridestl.com.

Sat., Jan. 11, 11 a.m., Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., St. Louis Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter invites you to their Founders Day Celebration: The Vision of the 22...Their Legacy Continues. Orlando Gardens, 2050 Dorsett Village, 63043. For more information, visit www.dstslmac.com.

Sat., Jan. 11, 11 a.m., The Pink Bride St. Louis Wedding Show. America’s Center, 701 Convention Plaza, 63101. For more information, visit www.bridescan.com.

Sat., Jan. 11, 6 p.m., 8th Annual An Evening with the Cardinals. Join Cardinals Hall of Famers Ted Simmons and Ozzie Smith, with emcee Dan McLaughlin, to raise money for families battling childhood cancer. Silent auction. Union Station Hotel, 1820 Market St., 63103. For more information, visit www.thenccs.org/ cardinals.

Wed., Jan. 15, 10 a.m., Public School Fundraiser. Join us to help us raise money to help out the public school system. City Hall, 1200 Market St., 63102. For more information, visit www. facebook.com.

Jan. 17 – 19, Loop Ice Carnival. 5800 Delmar Blvd., 63112. For more information, visit www.visittheloop.com.

Sat., Jan. 18, 8 p.m., Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., Kappa Sigma Chapter, and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Phi Nu Zeta Chapter invite you to Shades of Blue: Celebrating the Zeta Centennial. Polish Heritage Center, 1413 N. 20th St., 63106. For more information, visit www.eventbrite.com.

Thur., Jan. 30, 10 a.m., JobNewsUSA presents a St. Louis Job Fair. Meet recruiters and hiring managers from the area’s top hiring companies. Orlando Gardens Events and Conference Center, 2050 Dorsett Village, 63043. For more information, visit

www.jobnewsusa.com.

Saturdays, 8 a.m., The Ferguson Farmers Market Plaza at 501, 501 S. Florissant Rd., 63135. For more information, visit www. facebook.com.

art

Through Dec. 29, Art St. Louis presents Art St. Louis XXXV, The Exhibition. Featuring 52 artworks in all media, themes, subjects, techniques, and styles by 52 artists from Missouri, Illinois & Indiana. 1223 Pine St., 63013. For more information, visit www.artstlouis.org.

Wed., Jan. 18, 11 a.m., Artist Talk: Liz Johnson Artur. The London-based artist talks about her compelling images of the African diaspora and her ongoing Black Balloon Archive with Drew Sawyer Contemporary Art Museum, 3750 Washington Blvd., 63108. For more information, visit www.camstl.org.

comedy

Sat., Dec. 28, 8 p.m., New Year’s Weekend Comedy Festival feat. Gary Owen, Mike Epps, Tommy Davidson, Mark Curry, HaHa Davis, and Desi Banks. Chaifetz Arena, 1 S. Compton Ave., 63103. For more information, visit www. ticketmaster.com.

Jan. 3 – 4, Helium Comedy Club presents Sheryl Underwood. 1151 St. Louis Galleria St., 63117.

Fri., Jan. 17, 8 p.m., Chris Bow Stand Up Comedy DVD Recording. Special Tymes Banquet Hall, 5950 Natural Bridge Rd., 63120. For more information, visit www. facebook.com.

theatre

Through Dec. 29, The

Kenya Vaughn recommends

Repertory Theatre of St.

Louis presents Jane Austin’s Pride and Prejudice, LorettoHilton, 130 Edgar Rd. Tickets are available at www.repstl. org or by calling The Rep Box Office at 314-968-4925.

Jan. 2 – 5, Disney on Ice presents Celebrate Memories Enterprise Center, 1401 Clark Ave., 63103. For more information, visit www. enterprisecenter.com.

Jan. 9 – Jan. 26, The Black Rep presents August Wilson’s Two Trains Running, Edison Theatre on the campus of Washington University, 6445 Forsyth. Tickets are available at (314) 534-3807 or www.theblackrep. org.

Sat., Jan. 11, 10 a.m., Nick Jr. Live! Move to the Music Join the Paw Patrol pups, Dora the Explorer, Bubble Guppies,

The Black Rep presents August Wilson’s Two Trains Running. See THEATRE for details.

Blue, and more. Stifel Theatre, 1400 Market St., 63103. For more information, visit www. ticketmaster.com.

Jan. 15 – 26, Fox Theatre presents Summer: The Donna Summer Musical. 527 N. Grand Blvd., 63103. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.

Jan. 16 – 19, Ignite Theatre Company presents Peter Pan Jr. Grandel, 3610 Grandel Sq., 63108. For more information, visit www.metrotix.com.

lectures and workshops

Sun., Dec. 29, 2 p.m., Worth Kamili Hayes launches his new book, Schools of Our Own: Black Chicago’s Golden Age of Private Education

A historical chronicle of Black Chicagoans and the emergence of private schools as a force of selfdetermination. Progressive Emporium, 1108 N. Sarah St., 63113. For more information, visit www. facebook.com.

Sat., Jan. 4, 8:15 a.m., SCORE presents How to Start and Manage Your Own Business. Topics include marketing, insurance, technology, business plans, and more. Fontbonne University, 6800 Wydown Blvd., 63105. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.

Tues., Jan. 6 p.m., National Coalition of 100 Black Women and 100 Black Women present Impact of the 2020 Census on St. Louis. Lewis & Clark Branch, St. Louis County

Library, 9909 Lewis and Clark Blvd., 63136. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.

Sat., Jan. 11, 1 p.m., The Field House Museum presents Perspectives of Freedom Suits and the Dred Scott Case. Panelists include Lynne Jackson, great-greatgranddaughter of Dred Scott; Dr. David Konig, Washington University and Michael Everman, Missouri State Archives. 634 S. Broadway, 63102. For more information, visit www.fieldhousemuseum. org. Sat., Jan. 11, 1:30 p.m., International Institute invites you to Challenges to Sensationalized Language & Imagery within the AntiTrafficking Movement 3401 Arsenal St., 63118. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.

Tues., Jan. 14, 10:45 a.m., Voter Suppression Tactics: International Perspective. 9001 Clayton Rd., 63117.For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.

Tues., Jan. 14, 6 p.m., National Coalition of 100 Black Women – Metropolitan St. Louis Chapter presents the Keeping Us Safe Series: A Conversation About Safety and Human Trafficking 8136 Groby Rd., 63130. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.

health

Sat., Jan. 4, 12 p.m., Superior Health and Wellness Seminar – 2K20 Health Kick-Off Polish Heritage Center, 1413 N. 20th St., 63106. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.

Wednesdays, Weekly Free Health Fair. St. Gabriel Clinic, 6113 Ridge Ave., 63133. Free health screenings include blood pressure, weight, height, BMI, hearing and vision screening and counselling. For more information, visit www. stgabrielstl.com.

syncopated with the voices made for a sound not typically heard as part of the “A Gospel Christmas” programming. The same could be said about the “island vibe” arrangement of “O Come, All Ye Faithful.” Kennedy Holmes came on stage about six songs into the performance and was met with yet another ovation. She was downright stunning in her floor length black gown and displayed very little hints of the cold that would have impacted the performance of a lesser

trained talent. A smooth, elegant rendition of the standard “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” was balanced by “All I Want For Christmas Is You,” the upbeat pop culture classic by Mariah Carey.

The arrangements were phenomenal as were the solo performances of the choir, particularly Montel Moore’s incredible tenor vocals for the adult contemporary spin on “Silent Night, Holy Night.” Holmes returned to the stage, this time in an equally gorgeous gold floor-length gown, with a performance of “Mary, Did You Know” and Adam Maness brilliantly arranged “O Holy Night.”

“She’s ours – she belongs

to us,” McBeth said of Holmes ahead of the performance. It was a sentiment the audience never seemed to forget, from the first selection – until she sang them out the door with her “Joy to the World” encore. There have been some amazing legends to take the stage as featured celebrity headliners for “A Gospel Christmas” over the years.

But Wednesday and Thursday were a first, in that audiences were given a glimpse of the artists’ greatness on the front end of her ascension – and that the city could fully claim her as a daughter of St. Louis while witnessing her potential.

Recognizing the victims of lynching

Plus, Missouri Emancipation Day at the Missouri History Museum

By Ellen Kunkelmann

For The St. Louis American

On Tuesday, January 7, the Community Remembrance Project will be held at the Missouri History Museum, led by the Equal Justice Initiative (EJI).

The Community Remembrance Project is part of EJI’s national campaign to recognize the victims of lynching by installing historical markers; collecting soil from lynching sites; and creating a national memorial to acknowledge racial injustice, now open in Montgomery, Alabama. Work began on the memorial as EJI investigated thousands of lynchings in the American South, many of which had never been documented.

After publishing its report about lynchings in the Deep South, EJI turned its attention to other states. In 2017 EJI reported that there were 60 reported racial terror lynchings in Missouri between 1880 and 1940—the second-highest number of any state outside the Deep South. Of the 56 lynchings in Illinois during that time period, 40 took place in St. Clair County. Because many lynchings went unreported, these numbers are almost certainly higher.

The featured speaker at the Community Remembrance Project will be Professor Geoff Ward of Washington University in St. Louis. Ward, an associate professor and associate chair of African and African-American studies and a faculty affiliate in the department of sociology and American culture studies, will examine the extensive history of racial violence, its legacies, and the increasing effort toward redress. Ward’s academic work is focused on the racial politics of social control and the pursuit of racial justice, historically and today. He is also the author of The Black Child-Savers: Racial Democracy and Juvenile Justice, a book about the rise, fall, and legacy of Jim Crow juvenile justice. His current projects include the Racial Violence Archive, a digital resource for research, teaching, and engagement; and the exhibition Truths and Reckonings: The Art of Transformative Racial Justice, a teaching gallery that will open at the Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum at Washington University on February 7 and run through April 19, 2020.

Return to the Museum on Thursday, January 9, for Voices from the Grave: Missouri Emancipation Day. In conjunction with Greenwood Cemetery, the first private cemetery for African Americans in the St. Louis region, this program will give a voice to those once enslaved and celebrate their lives and

contributions to the St. Louis region.

Missouri Emancipation Day commemorates January 11, 1865, when the delegates of the Missouri state convention, led by Radical Republican Charles Drake, passed the immediate emancipation of all enslaved persons—two years after President Abraham Lincoln had issued his own Emancipation Proclamation, which had not applied to slaves in border states that had stayed loyal to the Union.

The Missouri state convention took place in St. Louis at the Mercantile Library Hall on Broadway Boulevard (formerly 5th Street) and Locust Street. The convention opened on January 6 for the sole purpose of considering emancipation amendments to the Missouri Constitution. On January 11, the 69 delegates, with four dissenters, passed an ordinance abolishing slavery and involuntary servitude “except in punishment of crime.”

According to the book Discovering African American St. Louis: A Guide to Historic Sites by John A. Wright, church bells began to ring out across the city as the news spread on January 11. African Americans gathered in their churches to sing and pray throughout the night. On January 14 an official observance was held in St. Louis, with parades, flags, large crowds of African American and white residents, and a 60-gun salute.

Governor Thomas C. Fletcher’s proclamation was read aloud: “that henceforth and forever no person within the jurisdiction of this State shall be subject to any abridgement of liberty, except such as the law may prescribe for the common good, or know any master but God.” St. Louisans cheered loudly and continued celebrating for hours longer. It was reported that St. Louis was “aglow with lights in every window and fireworks in the sky.”

Those who attend the Voices from the Grave event on December 9 will gain insights into the lives of St. Louis African Americans who experienced this historic day.

The Community Remembrance Project begins at 6:30pm in the Lee Auditorium and is free and open to the public. For more information, visit eji.org. Voices from the Grave: Missouri Emancipation Day will be presented on Thursday, January 9, at 6:30pm in the AT&T Foundation Multipurpose Room and Lee Auditorium. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, visit mohistory. org. Ellen Kunkelmann is associate editor at the Missouri Historical Society.

into an opera. And shout out to Opera Theatre of Saint Louis for allowing them to stage the world premiere. The cast was phenomenal. The story was brilliantly told. It’s no secret how overwhelmingly white the storylines and the storytellers are within the art form -and I saw this as a person who loves it. So, I know the transformative power of seeing a story so authentically African American, told by African Americans and met with critical acclaim. I’m wishing the show the best when it makes its way to the Metropolitan Opera House – and Terence Blanchard becomes the first African American compose to have an opera play there in its history, a whole 136 years.

Also noteworthy: The Black Rep’s presentation of “Canfield Drive” and the Black Rep/COCA collaboration of “Four Little Girls,” and New Jewish Theatre’s “District Merchants.”

On TV- “Watchmen.” Three words sum it up: Yahya Abdul Mateen (II). He was the bright spot in Jordan Peele’s “Us” and I was hoping that the decision makers in Hollywood saw what I did in his brief, but unforgettable appearance in the film.

Griot

Continued from C1

one just creating art. This was someone telling their own story through their art. It’s sad when you have to lose people before the full story is told. Who knows what else he would have done? What contributions he might have had and who else might have been impacted by his story?”

One of the most striking of the posters from the collection – which was created for a Red Cross campaign that paired Smith’s art with African proverbs – was an image that was a portrait within a portrait. The subject of the art was holding onto a picture of himself. Written atop of the image was the Ethiopian saying, “He who conceals his disease cannot expect to be cured.”

The poster was a tragic autobiography of sorts. His story became the springboard for expressing the narrative that she would tell visually through the exhibit. Through portraits and accompanying bios of people around the nation – and right here in St. Louis – the exhibit reveals that HIV/AIDS has impacted the region since before it was known to be a disease.

“The story is that black people have a history with HIV/AIDS that dates back 50 years,” Conley said.

An anchoring portion of the exhibit is the story of a

What a difference some months can make. I didn’t see him in “Aquaman” at the end of 2018 or “The Get down” until after he caught my attention in “Us.”

So, pardon me as I give myself more credit than I deserve in identifying the “it” factor. Either way, he is booked and busy for the foreseeable future with upcoming roles in “The Matrix 4” and “Candyman”.

His portrayal as Cal opposite the magnificent Regina King in the HBO drama based on the graphic novel serves as a chance to see him in all his glory – like all of it – in an NC-17 way. The show had the general population shook with its overt display of racial terror against black people that kicks off with the Tulsa race riots. The acting is brilliant and story itself is a mind-bender, but so worth it.

Runners’ Up: Eddie Murphy’s SNL return comes in at second – as much for the surplus of hilarious interviews that he participated in to hype the show up as the show itself. FX’s drug crime drama “Snowfall” is in third. Close behind it is the limited series

“When They See Us,” Ava DuVernay’s interpretation of the Central Park Five case.

At the movies – I spent most of the year underwhelmed by the hyped-up films that were supposed to be defining moments in black cinema for 2019. But I was thrilled that St.

St. Louis teen named Robert Rayford. He fell ill suddenly as a teen in 1969 and died shortly thereafter from an inexplicable illness. His cells were kept for research. Nearly 20 years later Dr. Memory Elvin-Lewis revealed to the St. Louis PostDispatch that it was determined that he passed away from HIVrelated illness.

“There are a lot of underlying stories surrounding Robert’s disease – unfortunately we don’t know much about them at all,” Conley said. “Why were his samples saved?”

But the exhibit reaches beyond the casualties of the disease. The multimedia presentation ranges from posters that detail the celebrity driven campaign to build awareness and tear down stigmas to video interviews of Smith and a segment on Rayford. It also shares stories of individuals living with HIV living full lives as advocates and activists.

“What this exhibit does is that it gives me the opportunity to look up the historical ramifications of the illness,” said Conley. “It took me through the journey when there was no treatment. There was a young man who died because he didn’t get treated because they didn’t know what he had– to today. Now there are medications that are available. There’s changing in behavior that we now know that we can do that makes a difference in our lives – but we have to take those steps.” Community outreach was critical to the exhibit’s devel-

Louis native Sterling K. Brown came through in the clutch with his anchoring performance in “Waves.” The same can be said for “Dolemite Is My Name.” And while folks are rightfully kissing the ring of Eddie Murphy for bringing the heat in the title role, Wesley Snipes is not getting the credit he deserves as D’Urville Martin. I enjoyed “The Last Black Man In San Francisco” as well –especially the performance of Jonathan Majors as Monty.

In Music – Rapsody’s “Eve” was the whole entire mood from the time it dropped this summer until right now. It was such a landslide, that I am forgoing any honorable mention so that folks know for sure that no other record stood a chance after she hit us with a whole collection of black woman empowerment set to song with each title named for a separate she-ro. I really hate that “Eve” didn’t turn into a smash like “Miseducation” did for Ms. Lauryn Hill, because this career-defining record is already a classic in my book. I truly hope that Rapsody gets the “Lizzo” treatment with “Eve.” In other words, two or three years down the line everybody is tipped off to what a gem the album and the artist are. Then they pump her up to the max like she hasn’t been out her grinding with all her might completely under the mainstream’s radar.

opment – which took just over a year to complete. According to Conley, the community’s response and contribution speak to the intention of the exhibit.

“We have to stop sweeping things under the rug that are distasteful to us. We have to deal with it head on,” Conley said. “It doesn’t matter what your sexual preference is or what you do in your private life, but you need to know what your status is. Period. It’s what you do about that that makes the difference.

Conley hopes that those who visit the exhibit feel enlightened about the history of HIV/ AIDS within the black community, but also feel encouraged and courageous about putting in the work as far as the awareness and prevention efforts that are as much needed today as ever.

“It’s no longer a death sentence – and it’s not something to feel guilty about,” Conley said. “It’s an illness like any other illness. And if you don’t take care of it, you die from it. We need to pay attention to the fact that we are affected in greater proportions that other groups in the population and we need to take action. We don’t have to die from it – but we do have to be conscious.”

Impact HIV/AIDS opened at the Griot Museum of Black History and Culture (2505 St. Louis Avenue) on Wednesday, December 18. For additional information visit https://www. thegriotmuseum.com/ or call (314) 241-7057.

Photo by Maurice Meredith

A Night For Life was also a night for wonderful St. Louis soul when music legend and Ferguson native Michael McDonald took the stage alongside Brian Owens and his Art For Life team with special guest Kennedy Holmes.

Celebrations

Anniversary Wishes

I would like to say thanks to God that on January 1, 2020, Mr. and Mrs. Antonio Scaife will be celebrating our 4th wedding anniversary. It’s truly been a blessing being married to my soulmate. We are not perfect, but God has made us perfect for each other. I am looking forward to many more blessed and prosperous years with you. I love you so much!

Reunions

Beaumont High Class of 1970 is planning its 50-year reunion! We want to reach as many classmates as possible, so please share this info with other class of ‘70 alumni. Please email your current contact info to: Beaumontclassof1970@gmail. com.

Central High School Class of 1970 is in the process of planning its 50-year reunion in 2020. We are trying to locate former classmates. If you would like to receive additional information as we plan this momentous occasion, please provide your contact information to either Lillian McKinney at mamajoyce314@ icloud.com or (314) 335-9760, Eric Armstrong at elarmstr@ yahoo.com or (918) 6503385, Sabra Morris-Pernod at Saboots@centurytel.net or (314) 703-0812. Sumner High School Class

of 1957 will sponsor a Holiday Social on Friday, December 27, 5-8 pm at the Creve Coeur American Legion Hall (behind Bristol) 934 E Rue Del La Banque Dr., 63141. DJ will play oldies and line dance music for dancing. Tables available for card players. Chicken and fish dinners available for $10, cash bar.

Sumner Class of 1976 Annual Christmas Party Friday, December 21, 2018, 7pm at DEJAVU II Cafe, 2805 Target Dr., St. Louis, MO 63136. 2 for 1 Drink Specials (5:30-7:30pm), free

Debutante

On December 28, Deb Cydney Gabriella Monise Perkins will participate in the Alpha Upsilon Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc.’s 52nd Annual Debutante Tiara Cotillion. She’s the daughter of Mr. Brett Perkins and Ms. Tessa WhitfieldPerkins. At McCluer North High School, she is a member of National Honors Society, the Superintendent’s and Principal’s Advisory Councils, Captain of the McCluer North Dance Team, and Honors Orchestra among many other activities and hobbies. Her aspiration is to attend a major university to pursue a major in political science, attend law school and become a judge.

Birthday

Julianna Beatrice Thomas will celebrate her 8th birthday on December 29. She loves going to school, making friends, playing, blue slushies and going to McDonalds for nuggets. She’s a very sweet child who keeps you smiling. She is very much loved and enjoys spending time with her Great-Grandmom.

parking, band performs from 7:30-9:30pm. No cover charge; classmates and guest each pays $5 for the catered food served during intermission, whether you partake of it or not. Limited reserved seating available until 10pm. Doors open 5pm/close 1am. For more info, call B. Louis at 314.385.9843.

Vashon High School Class of 1974 is planning for its 45th reunion. We are in the process of rounding up all classmates. To provide or update your contact information, please email ljbady@gmail.com or

Do you have a celebration you’re proud of? If so we would like to share your good news with our readers. Whether it’s a birth, wedding, engagement announcement, anniversary, retirement or birthday, send your photos and a brief announcement (50 words or less) to us and we may include it in our paper and website – AT NO COST – as space is available Photos will not be returned. Send your announcements to: kdaniel@stlamerican. com or mail to:

St. Louis American

contact: Joe Verrie Johnson 314-640-5842, Jordan Perry 314-724-4563, or LaVerne James-Bady 314-382-0890.

Vashon High School Class of 1975 is planning for its 45 year class reunion. We are in process of getting all classmates to provide or update your contact information. Please email Millicent, centbyme1@aol.com or Elvis, elvishopson@att.net. You can also send information by mail: Vashon High Class of 1975, P.O. box 8735, St. Louis Mo. 63101. Keep this date open: August 7-9, 2020.

Rev. Deborah Krause to lead Eden Theological Seminary

Said

Ferguson was

‘a redemptive movement in proximity to the suffering of God’s people’

By Chris King Of The St. Louis American

Just days before Rev. Deborah Krause was announced as the next president of Eden Theological Seminary – the first woman to lead the seminary in its 159-year history –she served on a panel at a Deaconess Foundation Just 4 Kids Community Conversation. Rev. Starsky Wilson, president and CEO of the Deaconess Foundation and former co-chair of the Ferguson Commission, introduced Krause by saying that she was on the streets of Ferguson during the unrest more than he was.

Krause said she had been summoned to the streets of Ferguson by her former students, including Wilson and Pastor Traci Blackmon of Christ the King United Church of Christ in Florissant (who also is now a national leader with the United Church of Christ).

frequent presence in Ferguson, many veterans of the Ferguson unrest offered testimony in support of her.

Heather DeMian, one of the most dedicated documentarians of the Ferguson unrest and Stockley verdict protests, immediately posted a number of photos of Krause bearing witness at protests. One of those images illustrates this story.

Krause testified to the Deaconess audience about the importance of clergy “moving into spaces outside of our churches and our home villages, into spaces where people are doing reparative work.”

n Krause testified about the importance of clergy “moving into spaces outside of our churches and our home villages, into spaces where people are doing reparative work.”

“It was a redemptive movement to be in proximity to the suffering of God’s people,” she said on December 9 to a crowded room of community organizers (Kayla Reed and Sarah Watkins of Action St. Louis), elected officials (St. Louis Treasurer Tishaura O. Jones, state Senator Karla May) and activist clergy like Blackmon and Wilson.

When Krause’s elevation to president of the seminary, where currently she is a professor of New Testament studies, was announced on social media with a nod to her

She recognized Cathy Daniels in the crowd, the iconic Mama Cat of the Ferguson protest movement. “She fed a movement,” Krause said of Daniels. “She created a family home on the streets and the Andy Wurm parking lot,” a reference to Andy Wurm Tire & Wheel, located across the street from the Ferguson Police Department. The Wurm family patiently allowed protestors to operate and fellowship out of their parking lot when the shop was closed.

“Without a pastor and without a church, they gathered a movement of people,” Krause said of Ferguson protestors. “If you follow those people, maybe the church will come, too, but I promise you will meet Jesus there.”

An ordained minister of the Presbyterian Church (USA), Krause has been a member of Eden’s faculty since 1992 and served as

the multidenominational seminary’s academic dean from 2005 through 2018. Among her accomplishments over this time were a comprehensive curriculum revision completed in 2016 and inclusion efforts that have substantially boosted diversity on Eden’s campus. In her new role leading the seminary, Krause plans to “extend and expand upon its initiatives to bring people together to forge a joy-filled future for Christianity,” according to a release. In recent years, Eden has launched multiple new programs to advance its mission, retaining a strong focus on preparing tomorrow’s church leaders while also creating

and strengthening ties to the business community, civic organizations and interfaith initiatives. New offerings include a degree program in Community Leadership and Next Steps, a non-degree program designed to help retirees find new callings to support their communities.

“Eden has long served as a pillar of the Progressive Christian Movement, and I’m excited for the opportunity to help strengthen and expand its role in the months and years ahead,” Krause said in a statement. “The theological education provided at Eden empowers church and community leaders to explore their faith, pursue racial equity, promote interfaith collegiality

Rev. Deborah Krause (holding the “Blue Silence is Violence” sign) was announced as the next president of Eden Theological Seminary – the first woman to lead the seminary in its 159-year history. She is seen here on Market Street in downtown St. Louis on Monday September 25, 2017, during the Stockley verdict protests.

Photo by Heather DeMian

and strengthen the resiliency of the church. We will work to build on this foundation moving forward.”

Krause will succeed David Greenhaw, who plans to retire in the summer of 2020 after a 23-year tenure as Eden’s president. Krause will officially take on the new role on July 1, after a transition period working in partnership with Greenhaw. Krause was selected for the position after an intensive six-month search process led by Eden Board of Trustees chair and former president and CEO of Parents as Teachers Susan Stepleton and board member and retired Energizer Holdings CEO Ward Klein. Hundreds of candidates were contacted and dozens of strong candidates were given consideration.

“Deborah Krause has extraordinary gifts and brings deep wisdom to this work. She is ready to lead Eden,” Greenhaw said in a statement. “No one loves Eden more than Deb, and no one will work harder for Eden’s future.”

For more information on Eden Theological Seminary, which is located at 475 East Lockwood Ave. in Webster Groves, visit https://www. eden.edu/.

ELECTRICAL INSTRUCTOR

Seeking individual with general knowledge of all aspects of the electrical trade. Teaching / training experience and or industry certifications desirable. Computer skills required. Must have a minimum of 9 years of experience at the Journey Level and be a current member in good standing with the St. Louis, Kansas City Carpenters Regional Council Local Union 57. Send resume to address below by (date). No walk ins or email copy will be accepted.

DIRECTOR-CUSTOM APPLICATION DEVELOPMENT

Requirements:

PART-TIME MINISTER OF MUSIC NEEDED EPISCOPAL CHURCH ALL SAINTS AND ASCENSION, NORTHWOODS

We ask that this person be proficient on piano, provide leadership to choir, and show flexibility as we incorporate hymns and songs from The Hymnal 1982, Lift Every Voice and Sing, II, as well as Spirituals and some contemporary Gospel. He or she will exercise ministry at regular Sunday services and additional services as needed.

Resumes may be sent to the attention of: Priest-in-Charge Episcopal Church of All Saints and Ascension 4520 Lucas and Hunt Road Northwoods, MO 63121

SENIOR FINANCIAL REPORTING ACCOUNTANT

Ensure accuracy of SIG/SN/ Canada STAT and GAAP accounting and reporting. Prepare analyses during the month end close process, complete tasks associated with the Company’s quarterly and annual statutory and GAAP reporting requirements. Ensure accuracy of information reported to rating agencies. Research accounting guidance when new transactions arise, or when new guidance is issued. Complete special projects for the department. To apply, please visit: https://www.safetynational.com/careers-page/

NOTICE TO

gling with mental health issues. Must have personal lived experience as a Y/ YA with mental health challenges in past 10 years & demonstrated interest & skill in working with Y/YAs. More info & apply at: bhnstl.org/career-opportunities

Request for Public Comment

East-West Gateway Council of Governments (EWG) seeks comment on proposed amendments to the FY 2020-2023 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), Connected2045, and Air Quality Conformity Determination. The public comment period begins on Tues., 1/14/20. The Air Quality Conformity Determination and proposed amendments will be available on the EWG web site (www.ewgateway.org) on this date. A public open house will not be held unless requested. Requests for a public open house must be received no later than Tues., 1/28/20. If a timely request for a public open house is received, an open house will be held at EWG on Tue., 2/4/20 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Throughout the comment period, EWG staff will answer questions on the proposed amendments. Comments or questions on these documents must be received or postmarked by Thur., 2/13/20. Please send requests or comments to TIP@ewgateway.org or East-West Gateway Council of Governments, Attn: TIP, One S. Memorial Dr., Suite 1600, St. Louis, MO 63102.

Public Notice of Single Source Procurement

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is proposing to procure: INFLUENT PUMP

DRIVE UPGRADE. FRENCH GERLEMAN ELECTRIC is the only known available source for upgrade. Any inquiries should be sent to gjamison@stlmsd.com.

Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

ST. LOUIS COMMUNITY COLLEGE

St. Louis Community College will receive separate sealed bids for Contract No. F 20 405, Install Air Compressor for Science Labs, St. Louis Community College at Forest Park, until 2:00 p.m. local time, Tuesday, January 14, 2020. Bids will be publicly opened and read aloud at the office of the Manager of Engineering and Design, 5464 Highland Park Drive (Plan Room). Specifications and bid forms may be obtained from the Manager’s office, at the above address or by calling (314) 644-9770.

Pre-Bid Meeting: Voluntary

Monday, January 6, 2020, 10:00 am, Meet in C Tower 1st Floor

An Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS

Notice

SEALED BIDS

BidsforRenovate RoofSystem, LamarReadiness Center,Lamar, Missouri,Project No.T1904-01 willbereceived byFMDC,Stateof MO,UNTIL 1:30PM, 1/23/2020,via MissouriBUYS.

Biddersmustbe registeredtobid. Forspecificproject informationand orderingplans,go to:http://oa.mo. gov/facilities

SEALED BIDS

BidsforUpgrades andRenovations, MissouriVeterans H

, Missouri,Project No.U1805-01 willbereceived byFMDC,Stateof MO,UNTIL1:30 PM,1/28/2020via MissouriBUYS.

Biddersmustbe registeredtobid. Forspecificproject informationand orderingplans,go to:http://oa.mo. gov/facilities

Public Notice of Single Source Procurement

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is proposing to procure:

5 CITIES PLUS CONFERENCE 2019: FIVE CITIES PLUS INC. was used for this service. Any inquiries should be sent to gjamison@stlmsd.com.

Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS

Sealed

SEALED BIDS

BidsforReplace Roofs,Guhleman ForensicComplex, FultonState Hospital,Fulton, Missouri,Project No.M1906-01 willbereceived byFMDC,Stateof MO,UNTIL 1:30PM,January 23,2020,via MissouriBUYS. Biddersmustbe registeredtobid. Forspecificproject informationand orderingplans,go to:http://oa.mo. gov/facilities

SEALED BIDS

BidsforWindow R

n

, Administration BuildingWheelerHall, MOSchoolfor theDeaf,Fulton, Missouri,Project No.E1906-01 willbereceived byFMDC,Stateof MO,UNTIL1:30 PM,1/23/2020via MissouriBUYS. Biddersmustbe registeredtobid. Forspecificproject informationand orderingplans,go to:http://oa.mo. gov/facilitie

BIDS

Gladiator Building, 1339 Magnolia Manor Court, St. Peters, MO 63303 is seeking subcontractor bids for six (6) new construction homes at 3156 & 3158 Nebraska Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63118 and 2716, 2726, 2732 and 2736 Hickory Street, St. Louis, MO 63104.

Scopes of work include, but are not limited to: New Construction of six (6) single family homes. Section 3, Minority, Women and Disadvantaged Business Enterprises are encouraged to bid.

Project plans and specifications are available by request. Please contact Gladiator Building at (314)328 -5545, GladiatorHomes314@gmail.com.

All bids are due to Gladiator Building’s office by 1/13/19, 12 p.m. Gladiator Building is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

METROPOLITAN ST. LOUIS

SEWER

PUBLIC NOTICE

Income Based Wait List Opening

Taking Applications for 1 Bedroom Apts. Friday January 3, 2020 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Location: 600 Kingshighway St. Louis, MO 63108

Washington Apartment’s Community Room

All applicants must be 18 or older and Have a valid driver’s license or state issued ID (You will need to know all household members social security numbers)

Requests for reasonable accommodation due to a disability should be made in writing and submitted to the Washington Apartment’s Management office: 600 Kingshighway, St. Louis, Mo.63108. Washington Apartments does not discriminate on the basis of disability status in the admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its federally assisted programs and activities. The person named below has been designated to coordinate compliance with the nondiscrimination requirements contained in the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s regulations implementing Section 504 (24 CFR, part 8 dated June 2, 1988). For Section 504/disability related issue ONLY, contact:

Theresa Wood, Section 8 Compliance Manager 720 Olive Street, Suite 2500 St. Louis, MO 63101 (314) 335-2822 (voice)

INVITATION TO BID

McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. requests bids from qualified and certified MBE and WBE subcontractors and suppliers for the following project:

Washington University School of Medicine

4370 Duncan - Research Building and Garage Bid Package 2

For the following scopes of work:

Ready-Mix Suppliers, Formwork & Accessories

Suppliers, Reinforcing Steel-Erection, Reinforcing Steel-Fabrication, Waterproofing & Dampproofing, Electrical, Hauling & Disposal, Earth Retention Systems, Piles & Caissons

BIDS DUE: January 23, 2020 by 2:00 PM CST

Contact: Mike Bax at mbax@mccarthy.com or 314-919-2215

Project plans and specs can be obtained through our online Plan Room at https://www.mccarthy.com/subcontractors Prequalification

LETTING #8711

STL Cargo City Roof Replacement for Buildings 1 & 2

At St. Louis Lambert International Airport

Sealed proposals will be received by the Board of Public Service in Room 208 City Hall, 1200 Market Street, St. Louis, Mo. Until 1:45 PM, CT, on Tuesday, February 4, 2020, then publicly opened and read. Plans and Specifications may be examined on the Board of Public Service website http://www.stl-bps.org/planroom.aspx (BPS On Line Plan Room) and may be purchased directly through the BPS website from INDOX Services at cost plus shipping. No refunds will be made.

Bidders shall comply with all applicable City, State and Federal laws (including MBE/WBE policies). Mandatory pre-bid meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 7, 2020 at 10:00 AM, in the Ozark Conference Room at the Airport Office Building, 11495 Navaid Rd., Bridgeton, MO 63044.

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).

NOTICE TO

METROPOLITAN ST. LOUIS SEWER DISTRICT

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District will receive Sealed Bids in the Purchasing Division, 2350 Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63103-2555 until 11:00 a.m. on January 24, 2020 to contract with a company for: FILTERS – LIGHT/ MEDIUM/HEAVY DUTY/OFF HIGHWAY EQUIPMENT/INDUSTRIAL (RE-BID).

Specifications and bid forms may be obtained from www.stlmsd.com, click on the “MSD AT WORK” link, (bid opportunities). The bid document will be identified as 10234 RFQ. If you do not have access to the internet, call 314-768-6254 to request a copy of this bid.

Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

LETTING NO. #8713

CONCRETE & BRICK REMOVAL/ REPLACEMENT AND COMPLETE SIDEWALK INSTALLATION SP-112

Sealed proposals will be received by the Board of Public Service in Room 208 City Hall, 1200 Market Street, St. Louis, Mo. Until 1:45 PM, CT, on January 28, 2020, then publicly opened and read. Plans and Specifications may be examined on the Board of Public Service website http://www.stl-bps. org(BPS On Line Plan Room) and may be purchased directly through the BPS website from INDOX Services at cost plus shipping. No refunds will be made.

A mandatory pre-bid conference for all contractors bidding on this project will be held on January 9, 2020 at 10:00 A.M. in Room 305, City Hall, 1200 Market Street, St. Louis MO 63103. NOTE: Contractors that attended the pre-bid conference for Project SP-111 are eligible to bid on Project SP-112 without attending the SP-112 pre-bid conference.

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).

LETTING #8712

STL Cargo City Roof Replacement for Buildings 3, 4 & 5

At St. Louis Lambert International Airport

Sealed proposals will be received by the Board of Public Service in Room 208 City Hall, 1200 Market Street, St. Louis, Mo. Until 1:45 PM, CT, on Tuesday, February 4, 2020, then publicly opened and read. Plans and Specifications may be examined on the Board of Public Service website http://www.stl-bps.org/planroom.aspx (BPS On Line Plan Room) and may be purchased directly through the BPS website from INDOX Services at cost plus shipping. No refunds will be made.

Bidders shall comply with all applicable City, State and Federal laws (including MBE/WBE policies). Mandatory pre-bid meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 7, 2020 at 10:00 AM, in the Ozark Conference Room at the Airport Office Building, 11495 Navaid Rd., Bridgeton, MO 63044.

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).

LETTING #8709

CONCRETE & BRICK REMOVAL/ REPLACEMENT AND COMPLETE SIDEWALK INSTALLATION SP-111

Sealed proposals will be received by the Board of Public Service in Room 208 City Hall, 1200 Market Street, St. Louis, Mo. Until 1:45 PM, CT, on January 14, 2020, then publicly opened and read. Plans and Specifications may be examined on the Board of Public Service website http:// www.stl-bps.org(BPS On Line Plan Room) and may be purchased directly through the BPS website from INDOX Services at cost plus shipping. No refunds will be made.

A mandatory pre-bid conference for all contractors bidding on this project will be held on December 18, 2019 at 10:00 A.M. in Room 305, City Hall, 1200 Market Street, St. Louis MO 63103.

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).

SEALED BIDS

Bidsfor TindallFarms

Reclamation Project,

CITY OF ST. LOUIS BOARD OF PUBLIC SERVICE

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS for PROFESSIONAL

ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT

ENHANCEMENTS – PHASE 4, ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI, PROJECT NO. CMAQ-9901(656). Statements of Qualifications due by 5:00 PM CT, JANUARY 10, 2020 at Board of Public Service, 1200 Market, Room 301 City Hall, St. Louis, MO 63103. RFQ may be obtained from BPS website www.stl-bps.org, under On Line Plan Room-Plan Room, or call Board of Public Service at 314-6223535. 16% DBE participation goals.

PUBLIC NOTICE

Donald Maggi, Inc. is accepting bids from Disadvantaged Business Enterprises for subcontracting opportunities on the City of Salem Sidewalk TAP-9900 (510) located in Salem MO

Bid Date and Time: Thursday, January 9, 2020 at 1:30 Plans and specifications are available for purchase from: Archer Elgin, 310 E 6th St, Rolla MO 573-364-6362

www.questcdn.com

Project # 6619714

Or may be inspected at our office at 13104 South US Hwy 63, Rolla, Missouri 65401

Request for Email copies of plans and specs can be sent via drop box Our telephone number is 573-364-7733; fax 573-341-5065. An Equal Opportunity Employer. Email: maggiconst@gmail.com

Donald Maggi, Inc.

HOUSE FOR RENT

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Project #CP191921 Gas Turbine Building –

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BidsforRoof Replacements–Various,Mount VernonTreatment Center,Mount Vernon,Missouri, ProjectNo. H1910-01 willbereceived byFMDC,Stateof MO,UNTIL1:30 PM,1/2/2020via MissouriBUYS. Biddersmustbe registeredtobid. Forspecificproject informationand orderingplans,go to:http://oa.mo. gov/facilities HOUSE FOR RENT 2 Sty., 3BR.,2 Car Gar., All Appliances, No Smoking, No Pets, Ser. Animals Ok. $1,000/mo 314-540-3092 FOR RENT North City Section 8 1 BR & 3 BR Apts. Al-Cell 314-518-5898 FOR RENT 1&3 BED APT AVAILABLE $400-$600/mo +$1,000 Deposit 618-781-7968

StructSure Projects requests subcontractors bids from MBE, WBE, DBE, SDVE and Veteran Owned Businesses for the project listed above. Diverse firms are defined in Article 1 of the General Conditions of the Contract for Construction from the University of Missouri, August 2018 Edition. The diverse firm must be certified by a State of Missouri public entity.

Plans and specifications are available at the following locations: • http://operations-webapps.missouri.edu/pdc/ adsite/project.php?project=CP191921&format=html • By requesting electronic plan room access from StructSure Projects. Please call 913-647-9400.

Subcontractor bids are due at 4:00pm on January 13th, 2020, and may be submitted through the online plan room, faxed to 913-647-9500, or sent to estimating@structsureprojects. com.

Swag Snap of the Week

A quick programming note. Just so you know, because of this year’s wonky calendar that has all these holidays falling in the middle of the doggone week, I will do my “Best of” for the January 2 edition and my New Year’s Eve Party coverage will come the following week. I know, I know. But if you want to blame somebody, let the Greeks, Romans or whoever came up with the calendar we follow. Merry Christmas! The power of DELUX. The DELUX Power 100 was once again the place to be for the young black and fabulous came through with all sorts of glamour, honey. Honestly, I was expecting to see some 100 Black Men Gala and Salute formalwear repeats, but y’all came in so fresh, so clean and unrecycled to the Chase on Sunday night. I could make this a DELUX Power 100 edition if I got into naming names and who wore what and so, forth and so on. Instead, I will tip my hat to all the nominees and attendees for the style, grace and swag y’all brought to the evening. Y’all came with it so proper that I can’t really pick a best dressed. But I will say that the Honorable Betty Thompson had one of the best beats up in there. And I must have an affinity for navy/ blue formalwear this whole year, because those ensembles were the ones that spoke to my soul – on this night it was through Larry Blue, Cedric Cobb, Wesley Bell and Brendolyn Marie. And I know Partyline is for grown people, but can I have a second to talk about how I was getting life from the daddy moments I caught while at the 2019 Power 100? It kicked off for me with DELUX brainchild Keith Griffin and his son DJ Tril. But then there was the adorable overload of Jermaine Wooten and his son in those custom-made matching suits. And that Teddy BFree and his beautiful baby boy that can say cheese and pose on command like only a photographer’s son could. Also watching Darryl Frierson enjoy daddy and daughter time pulled at my heartstrings – not enough for me to crank up this defunct baby factory, but close. I do have to shout out honoree Naretha Hopson for that headwrap repurposed from somebody’s catwoman suit. She was serving a young Lady Eloise from “Boomerang” – and I got every bit of my life from it and the single-sleeve black gown it complimented! I kept envisioning her saying “Marcus darling…” every time she walked past me. But seriously, the Keith and his whole Power 100 organizing team deserve a nod for pulling off an event that gets better each year – and for doing it so close to Christmas! How have y’all been shopping, sleeping or holidayin’?

Ginuwine in mint condition. I scooted out of the Power 100 just in time to catch veteran R&B seducer Ginuwine work the stage at Ballpark Village. I was expecting a fuller crowd – especially after how Bone packed it out. It was respectable, but not at capacity. Ginuwine gave one of the best shows he’s given in recent years. That hair was silky. And so was that facial hair. If it were anybody else, I would say that I can’t believe that Ginuwine’s beard had that same bump as my church bangs – and if I’m not mistaken, the same foam roller crease that cut them in the middle and would never allow them to fully be great. Seriously, who has a press-n-curl beard? If it were anyone else, I would be shocked and set aside. But because its him, I expected him to take his grooming practices to the next level, based on the supple tresses of his fade and the legendary baby hair game. He came out dressed like one of the Snow Patrol villains of that tragic “Super Fly” reboot. I mean seriously, all that was missing was a custom white assault weapon. I must say that he gave a good show – and he shouted out St. Louis for their continued support. He reminded folks that he cut two albums here and that St. Louis has been rocking with him for almost 25 years. And shoutout to him for bringing out Chingy and shouting out AyeVerb. I enjoyed everything else, but I absolutely cannot co-sign that life-sized Ginuwine bobblehead/mascot – mainly because the hair on it wasn’t processed. Just kidding, but not really. HeyLuv for the holidays. Saturday night I was able to squeeze into the pre-Christmas edition of HeyLuv at .Zack just in time to show some birthday love to Rhashad. I had a ball when I got there. I’m telling you that I really get my life from a party that incorporates a quiet storm segment that allows the folks to body roll to our favorite slow jams. Saturday night was a prime example of the seductive power of a groove. When I tell you, I never thought I would have the opportunity to move these hips to the beat of Jason Weaver’s “Love Ambition.” That was the Christmas gift I never knew I needed. Haute holiday house parties. Speaking of the holidays, I was able to slide through a couple of spots where my favorite influencers opened their doors in the name of the holiday spirit for exclusive and intimate gatherings. Vincent Flewellen and Cory Clines’ annual Ugly Christmas Sweater party was indeed about that life! I ran into more than a few of my faves, including the hosts themselves. Tammie Holland and Marie Simone were just a couple of the VIPs that were perched and having a great time. After sitting with them a bit, I headed over to the lovely home of Angela Brown and her holiday spread with sounds curated by the one and only DJ Nune. BJ The DJ and his lovely wife Gina, Steve Lacy of Christopher Stevens Salon, Kevin Johnson of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch and Angela’s sister Cassandra Brown-Ray were just a few of the tastemakers in the place. Both parties were a grand time – and I’m so thrilled that I could squeeze them in with my regular activities.

Get well soon Frank-O. I just wanted to make sure that before I did anything else that I take a moment to send thoughts and prayers to Franchot O’Neal (also known as Frank-O or Thrill) who was injured on the job while performing his duties as a firefighter. For the sake of privacy, I didn’t want to say anything while he was admitted to the hospital, including the ICU. But now that he’s home, I can issue a praise report and let him know that we will be praying for him while he’s on the way to the full recovery we are claiming in advance.

Gail, Brenda and Valencia brought a little holiday cheer to the KAPPA Champagne Sip Sunday @ The Kappa House

Teonna, Tameecia, Dallas, Terrill and Kris as they welcomed guests of the 2019 DELUX Power 100 attendees Sunday @ The Chase Park Plaza

Brittany and Shanika had a chance to chop it up with veteran soul producer and musician ZO! During a special listening party for his latest album Saturday @ Sophie’s

Nikki, Diana and Tiffany met up for a white elephant gift exchange during Brunchish Sunday afternoon @ Quattro

Precious, Mariah, Meesha, Melissa and Toni enjoyed a pre-holiday girl’s night at Ballpark Village on Sunday

Brittani and Mo were in the mix as the Vibes party rocked Dos Salas Saturday night

@THE_BOSS_TEAM_TBT and @ Rocko2Real just as the rapper arrived to play for a packed house Saturday @ The Marquee

Gerald and Jasma couldn’t help but catch the groove being served up by HeyLuv Saturday @ .Zack

Rickey Smiley Morning Show personality Juicy playfully photobombed the ladies of Arrie P Boutique Saturday during the WAKANDA RUNWAY SHOW @ Jewel

Chingy and BJ The DJ caught up backstage at Ballpark Village during Ginuwine’s show Sunday night

Valarie was able to meet and greet with R&B veteran Ginuwine following his show Sunday night at Ballpark Village

Photos by V. Lang

Progress, opposition and impeachment in 2019

JANUARY

1 – Wesley Bell is sworn in as St. Louis County prosecutor, the first African American to hold the position.

The minimum wage in Missouri increases from $7.85 an hour to $8.60 an hour as part of the staggered increases mandated by Proposition B. Judge Robin Ransom becomes the presiding judge of Missouri’s 22nd Circuit Court, which covers the City of St. Louis. She will be appointed to the Missouri Court of Appeals a week later.

3 – Democrats take charge of the U.S. House of Representatives, and U.S. Rep. Maxine Waters becomes the first black and first woman to chair the House Financial Services Committee.

4 – When filing closes for the March 5 municipal primary elections, incumbent aldermanic President Lewis Reed faces two challengers: state Senator Jamilah Nasheed and Alderwoman Megan Ellyia Green.

5 – The formal application process to get into the new medical marijuana business in Missouri opens.

8 – St. Louis County prosecutor Wesley Bell announces expanded diversion programs and alternative courts intended to decriminalize addiction and mental health issues.

9 – “Canfield Drive,” a dramatization of the Ferguson unrest by Kristen Adele Calhoun and Michael Thomas Walker, premieres at the Black Rep.

10 – Tyrone Christian, a St. Louisan who led the effort to create a national monument to the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, passes at 64.

12 – Missouri kicks off its 33rd annual celebration of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King’s Birthday.

13 – Rev. Ronald L. Bono delivers his final sermon as pastor of West Side Missionary Baptist Church after 32 years in the pulpit.

25 – KTVI Fox 2 newscaster Kevin Steincross announces he is leaving the station a week after he said “Martin

Our timeline for 2019 begins with the swearing-in of St. Louis County Prosecutor Wesley Bell, and it ends with the impeachment of President Donald Trump. That pretty much sums it up.

St. Louis was either out of step with the nation or leading the nation towards a better future in 2019. Bell joined St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kimberly Gardner in establishing progressive, black leadership in matters of criminal justice. At the same time, the leadership of Trump’s Department of Justice led the way in obfuscating the misdeeds that led to his impeachment.

Not that Bell and Gardner did not face determined opposition. Bell faced media leaks from staff loyal to the long-time prosecutor he defeated, while Gardner became the target of a status quo legal system represented by a judge, a city counselor, the police, and powerful private attorneys. Her fate at their hands hangs in the balance as 2019 concludes.

As progressive prosecutors worked to address crime in a new way, the streets bled. So many young people were killed over the summer that it became

Luther Coon” on live television.

27 – The Berkeley High School track programs are inducted into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame.

28 – ArchCity Defenders and co-counsel file a federal suit claiming the 22nd Circuit Court in St. Louis has unconstitutional policies for pre-trial detention.

Better Together St. Louis releases its proposal for a merger of St. Louis city and county.

St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kimberly Gardner writes a letter to Police Chief John Hayden claiming police obstructed her investigation of one police officer fatally shooting another, Katlyn Alix

29 – The Ferguson City Council votes to fill the seat vacated by Wesley Bell with Byron Fry, who posted about busting protestors’ skulls during the Ferguson

national news – and an occasion for backlash when the city’s Public Safety director dismissed these young victims as “sophisticated criminals.” Five years after the police killing of Michael Brown sparked a national movement, police continued to kill people.

The public could claim some local victories in 2019. The U.S. Attorney’s Office brought down corrupt St. Louis County Executive Steve Stenger in a sophisticated undercover operation. Stenger’s downfall triggered two positive developments: he was succeeded by Sam Page, who started a series of progressive reforms, and it led to the dissolution of Better Together, which would have erased the City of St. Louis and made Stenger the unelected mayor of a merged citycounty.

St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson, who had agreed to the erasure of the city and enthronement of Stenger, remained mayor at her midterm. Will a new, emergent progressive majority that elected Gardner coalesce around a progressive mayoral challenger who will signal a new beginning for the city?

unrest.

31 – The St. Louis American endorses Jamilah Nasheed for St. Louis aldermanic president.

FEBRUARY

1 – Missouri releases its Annual Performance Report on public schools; 97 percent of public schools score in the fully accredited range.

8 – U.S. Rep. Maxine Waters keynotes the kickoff of Missouri’s statewide MLK celebration.

9 – Tony Scott returns to St. Louis airwaves on 95.5 FM.

10 – “Kehinde Wiley: St. Louis” closes at the St. Louis Art Museum.

11 – St. Louis Comptroller Darlene Green hosts a blood drive at City Hall in honor of Dr. Charles Drew

13 – African students at Saint Louis University protest the campus appearance of Apartheid-era South African leader F.W. de Klerk

20 – Washington University Chancellorelect Andrew D. Martin announces a new Center for the Study of Race, Ethnicity & Equity with Vice Provost Adrienne Davis as its founding director.

21 – The St. Louis American Foundation presents its 9th annual Salute to Young Leaders.

CareSTL Health opens its fourth schoolbased health clinic at Hoech Middle School in the Ritenour School District.

24 – Thanks to “Black Panther” among other films, black talent has an historic night at the Oscars award podium.

26 – Aldermen Brandon Bosley and John Collins-Muhammad call for a recall of St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson for her support of Better Together in a press conference at City Hall. Neither the recall effort nor Better Together will go anywhere.

27 – Nathaniel Taylor, best known for playing Rollo Lawson on “Sanford and Son,” passes at 80.

MARCH

1 – Trailblazing educator Mary Attyberry Polk passes at 91.

4 – Circuit Attorney Kimberly Gardner fights a search warrant of her office issued by special prosecutor Gerard Carmody, claiming he is acting as an agent of the police against the will of the people who elected her.

5 – “The status quo won again” is The St. Louis American headline as Lewis Reed, who was endorsed by Mayor Krewson, wins re-election as aldermanic president with only 36 percent of the vote.

7 – Circuit Attorney Kimberly Gardner joins Public Defender Mary Fox and activists in a public forum calling for an end to pretrial detention just because a suspect can’t post cash bail.

11 – St. Louis County Library adds a

wide array of musical instruments to its lending collection.

12 – Judge Michael K. Mullen allows special prosecutor Gerard Carmody — a private attorney — to seize confidential records from the elected prosecutor against Gardner’s objections filed with the court.

16 – The East St. Louis Flyers win their first state basketball championship.

Mariah Carey performs in St. Louis for the first time in more than 15 years.

17 – Rev. Anthony L. Riley is welcomed as new senior pastor of Central Baptist Church, its 14th leader in 173 years of worship.

18 – House Speaker Nancy Pelosi stumps for voter rights in Ferguson with U.S. Rep. Wm. Lacy Clay

19 – Black clergy publicly pray over Circuit Attorney Kimberly Gardner, who is under attack by the police and a special prosecutor allied to the defense team of the former governor she charged with a felony.

22 – “Us,” directed by Jordan Peele, opens. It will set a new box office record for the opening weekend of an original horror film.

26 – Better Together abandons its plan to install St. Louis County Executive Steve Stenger as the mayor of a merged metro city after Councilman Sam Page publicly discloses a federal subpoena of records related to deals Stenger made with campaign donors.

The ACLU of Missouri hosts a voter education forum in the FergusonFlorissant School District to explain the new cumulative voting process that it forced though a lawsuit.

30 – Longtime photojournalist for the American Wiley Price is inducted into the St. Louis Media Hall of Fame.

APRIL

2 – Adam Layne and Tracee Miller are elected to the St. Louis Public School Board.

Leslie Suzanne, a white incumbent member of the Ferguson-Florissant School Board, holds onto her seat in the April 2 election, and a black challenger

April 25 – St. Louis County Executive Steve Stenger is indicted on three federal counts of bribery, mail fraud and theft of honest services.

Sheila Powell-Walker is newly elected.

4 – Marissa Warren of Incarnate Word Academy is named the 2019 St. Louis American Player of the Year.

11 – With the comedy “Little,” 14-yearold Marsai Martin makes history as the youngest-ever executive producer in Hollywood.

12 – Preschoolers from Dunbar Elementary parade through the JeffVanderLou neighborhood to bring attention to the school’s fight to remain open for the upcoming school year.

15 – Seven Washington University students and a member of the clergy are arrested after occupying Chancellor-elect Andrew Martin’s office, as part of the Fight for $15 movement.

16 – The Missouri State Board of Education unanimously votes to give governing power of the Saint Louis Public School District back to a seven-member elected board, after 12 years of being under state control.

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson becomes the NFL’s highest-paid player in 2019, with his four-year, $140 million contract extension.

24 – Community members meet to

discuss police accountability on the sixyear anniversary that 25-year-old Cary Terrell Ball Jr. was shot 25 times by St. Louis city police in the neighborhood just north of downtown.

Ernie and Ronald Isley are inducted into the St. Louis Walk of Fame in the Delmar Loop.

25 – St. Louis County Executive Steve Stenger is indicted on three federal counts of bribery, mail fraud and theft of honest services, following a yearlong undercover federal investigation.

The National NAACP suspends St. Louis County NAACP president John Gaskin III, citing his conflict of interest in the Better Together merger plan as one of the reasons.

29 – In a 5-1 vote, the St. Louis County Council selects Sam Page, the council’s former chairman, as Stenger’s replacement.

30 – Missouri State Auditor Nicole Galloway calls on the state legislature to step up and provide law enforcement with the tools they need to expose public corruption.

MAY

1 – St. Louis Alderman John CollinsMuhammad Jr. and advocates for the Muslim community call on board chair David Heyen of Lewis and Clark Community College to resign over a series of Islamophobic, racist and antiimmigrant messages he posted online.

The white Ladue cop, Julia Crews, who shot a 33-year-old black woman in the Ladue Schnucks parking lot on April 23 is charged with assault in the second degree.

6 – Seventh in line of succession to the British throne, Archie MountbattenWindsor is born to Prince Harry and Meghan, Duke and Duchess of Sussex.

Tiger Woods receives the Presidential Medal of Freedom at the White House, just the fourth golfer to earn the honor.

7 – St. Ann Police Department comes under fire after a viral video shows a white officer breaking a car window with his elbow and then pulling a young African-American man through broken glass shards.

13 – Hazel Erby resigns from her council position to become the director of diversity, equity and inclusion under interim County Executive Sam Page.

16 – Michael McMillan, president and CEO of the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis (the nation’s largest affiliate), is inducted with his footprints at the International Civil Rights Walk of Fame unveiling in Atlanta.

State Rep. Bruce Franks Jr. announces he will step down from his St. Louisbased seat, citing a need to deal with his anxiety and depression.

17 – Missouri Auditor Nicole Galloway announces on May 17 that her office will accept the St. Louis County Council’s request to conduct an audit of county government following federal charges against former County Executive Steve Stenger and others.

19 – Billionaire investor Robert Smith announces during his commencement speech at Morehouse College that he will pick up the student loan tab of the HBCU’s entire class of nearly 400.

21 – Blues fans rejoice as the St. Louis Blues clinches its first Stanley Cup Final appearance in 49 years.

23 – St. Louis County Prosecuting

Attorney Wesley Bell announces that he will not issue criminal charges against jail medical personnel in the two deaths at the St. Louis County Justice Center, citing lack of evidence.

24 – The community celebrates the historic Shelley House, at the heart of the landmark U.S. Supreme Court case on restrictive covenants, being added to the African American Civil Rights Network.

Missouri’s Republican Gov. Mike L. Parson signs legislation banning abortions at eight weeks of pregnancy with an exception for medical emergencies, but not for rape or incest.

JUNE

1 – The historic black neighborhood of Babre Park in Webster Groves is honored with a sculpture located at the corner of Elm and Kirkham Avenues by nationally known sculptor Preston Jackson which celebrates the historical significance of the community.

3 – Hip Hop Architecture Camp hosts its second design camp for St. Louis youth June 3-7.

9 – Actor Andre De Shields wins his first Tony Award at age 72, as Best Actor in a Musical for his role as Hermes in “Hadestown.”

10 – Harris-Stowe State University announces that President Dwaun J. Warmack will be leaving the university to become the new president of Claflin University in Orangeburg, SC.

12 – The St. Louis Blues defeat the Boston Bruins 4-1 in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final to win their first Stanley Cup.

14 – Missy Elliot becomes the first female rapper inducted into the Songwriter’s Hall of Fame.

U.S. Judge Audrey G. Fleissig orders the City of St. Louis and the 22nd Circuit Court to hold 30 detention hearings a day, in an attempt to give the approximately 700 pretrial inmates the opportunity to tell a judge whether or not they can afford the bond amount that has been set for them.

17 – Police officer Milton Green sues the white St. Louis city cop who shot him in the arm two years before while Green was trying to assist at a crime scene in his neighborhood.

A grand jury indictment charges William Tisaby — the investigator hired by St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kimberly Gardner to help in the criminal investigation of then-Missouri Gov. Eric Greitens — with seven felony counts, including multiple perjury charges.

18 – Circuit Attorney Kimberly Gardner announces that she has placed 22 St. Louis police officers on her office’s exclusion list — known as a Brady List — that prohibits those officers from presenting cases to the prosecutor’s office, following the racially charged social media posts of current and retired city police officers revealed by the Plain View Project.

21 – Cure Violence trainer Marcus McAllister makes a presentation to public officials and community members in St. Louis on its violence prevention model.

The only abortion provider in Missouri, Planned Parenthood, loses its license, but a circuit judge rules that the injunction keeping the clinic open will remain in effect.

A Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights predicts an undercount of as high as 4 million people of color in the upcoming 2020 U.S. Census, with a possible accompanying over-count of whites.

track; Staciana Stock in girls volleyball; Parker Perry in golf; Rylea Smith in softball; Emma Opoku in field hockey; Journey White in girls tennis; E. J. Liddell in boys basketball; Marissa Warren in girls basketball; Jacob Bullock in wrestling; Justin Robinson in boys track; Alicia Burnett in girls track; Chase Nwanu in boys tennis; Nick Moten in baseball; Aaliyah Brown in girls soccer; and Donovan Parker in boys volleyball.

28 – Planned Parenthood seeks administrative remedies and seeks injunction after Missouri denies license renewal for abortion services to Reproductive Health Services

29 – Operation Clean Sweep 2019 begins with hundreds of community volunteers demolishing and clearing out derelict buildings in St. Louis. This is the third year of the project by Better Family Life.

24 – St. Louis County Prosecutor Wesley Bell rolls out a new Conviction and Incident Review Unit that reports directly to him, to review cases involving claims of wrongful prosecution or conviction and all matters involving police-involved shootings or misconduct.

25 – City of Ferguson passes over interim Police Chief Frank McCall and hires Jason Armstrong from Forest Park City, Georgia as its next police chief.

25 – Following a year of “Fight for $15” protests, Washington University announces it will raise its hourly minimum wage to $15 for regular employees and basic service contractors by July 1, 2021.

27 – Community members rally at St. Louis City Hall in support of City Prosecutor Kimberly Gardner with demands to Mayor Lyda Krewson and City Counselor Julian Bush to stop obstructing payment of legal fees and to appoint a special prosecutor to look into Gardner’s allegations of tampering with a judicial official.

27 – Earl Austin Jr. picks The St. Louis American’s Prep Athletes of the Year: Kyren Williams and Isaiah Williams in football; Braden Johnson in boys soccer; Malik Stewart in cross country

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June 25 – Following a year of “Fight for $15” protests, Washington University announces it will raise its hourly minimum wage to $15. missouri.wgu.edu | 855.948.8493

30 –Trap Soul & Paint, created by Nichol Stevenson, Angela Brown and Rochelle “Coco Soul” Walker hosts its One Year Anniversary at the House of Soul on Washington Ave.

JULY

1 – Judge George W. Draper becomes Missouri’s next chief justice, the state’s second African-American chief justice. Saint Louis Public Schools, the New Height Community Resource Center in Florissant, and the Children’s Mercy Kids Eat Free Program in Kansas City each earn a silver Turnip the Beet award from the USDA for serving healthy summer meals.

The State of Illinois raises the legal age to buy tobacco products, e-cigarettes and vapes to age 21.

The Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis opens a training center for persons seeking jobs in the food and hospitality industry in a former Lion’s Choice restaurant in Florissant.

2 – St. Louis Police officer William Olsten is charged with three counts of 3rd degree assault, a Class D felony, for pepper spraying civilians during a September 29, 2017 Jason Stockley verdict protests.

4 – Fair St. Louis returns to downtown after a five-year hiatus in Forest Park

while the Gateway Arch Park grounds and museum underwent a $380 million renovation.

5 – Johnny Gill and Keith Sweat make it happen as the night’s R&B entertainment for Fair St. Louis.

8 – The gag order in the William Tisaby case expires, and Roy Austin, St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kimberly Gardner’s attorney, states two days later: “From start to finish, this process has been a thinly veiled attempt by St. Louis’ old boy’s network to manipulate the law in order to exact political revenge for Circuit Attorney Gardner’s efforts to reform the criminal justice system, conduct full and fair investigations of police misconduct, and hold former Governor Eric Greitens accountable for his personal actions.”

A three judge panel upholds the constitutional right of Missourians to a voter referendum in a suit filed by the ACLU; ruling Jay Ashcroft acted illegally by rejecting a referendum petition that challenges the Missouri abortion ban and it ordered Ashcroft to allow the signature petition to move forward.

10 – St. Louis County Executive Sam Page refuses to sign off on the Trump administration’s plan to demolish about 200 public housing structures in Wellston, Mo.

12 – The documentary “Toni Morrison: The Pieces I Am” that explores the life of the Noble Prize-winning literary giant opens in theatres nationwide.

13 – Former St. Louis Rams standout Az-Zahir Hakim returns to the Lou as a wide receiver coach to hold tryouts for the XFL Summer Showcase, where invited athletes auditioned for spots for one of the franchises.

15 – Composer Terrance Blanchard and filmmaker and librettist Kasi Lemmons set to classic music “Fire Shut Up in My Bones,” adapted from the memoir of author and New York Times columnist Charles Blow, opens at Opera Theatre of St. Louis.

16 – At the suggestion of acting director of County Justice Services Lt. Troy Doyle of the St. Louis County Police Dept., St. Louis County Executive Sam Page asks the County Council to eliminate six types of fees considered predatory against persons in custody, including those related

to booking, bond and medical care.

18 – The U.S. House of Representatives passes a bill that headed to the U.S. Senate that would gradually increase the minimum wage to $15 an hour by the year 2025.

19 – Prosecutors from St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kimberly Gardner’s office file a 57-page motion to ask a judge to set aside the 1994 murder conviction of Lamar Johnson, who they allege was wrongfully convicted of murdering Marcus Boyd with police-fabricated evidence.

20 – In Las Vegas by unanimous decision, boxer Manny Pacquiao defeats Keith Thurman to win the WBA World Welterweight title.

22 – A settlement is reached for ClintonPeabody residents in a lawsuit filed on behalf of the public housing residents against the St. Louis Housing Authority and property manager McCormack Baron Salazar, for unhealthy and unsanitary living conditions, including infestations of mice, cockroaches and mold.

25 – The Songbook Tour brings diva Diana Ross to The Fabulous Fox Theatre.

28 – The legendary group Earth Wind and Fire performs at the Stifel Theatre in St. Louis.

Local filmmaker John Alexander digitally releases his latest film, “Nature of Sound,” that combines the region’s musical artists and the beauty and variety of St. Louis terrain.

The St. Louis Department of Health

July 19 – Prosecutors from St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kimberly Gardner’s office file a 57-page motion to ask a judge to set aside the 1994 murder conviction of Lamar Johnson, who they allege was wrongfully convicted of murdering Marcus Boyd with police-fabricated evidence.

Rep, “Canfield Drive,” opens at The National Black Theatre Festival in North Carolina, one week before the five year anniversary of the Mike Brown killing that sparked the uprising.

3 – The State of Missouri begins accepting medical marijuana facility applications.

11-year-old Mekenzie Rogers of the St. Louis Express wins three gold medals in track and field for the 100-, 200- and 400-meter dashes in her division at the Amateur Athletic Union Junior Olympics at North Carolina A & T University in Greensboro, N.C. St. Louis area athletes net national titles in 11 events.

5 – Nobel Laureate and literary legend Toni Morrison dies at age 88 in a New York hospital after a brief illness.

begins vaccinating persons held in city corrections facilities for hepatitis A due to a nationwide outbreak. Hep A is preventable but once contracted, is highly contagious.

29 – Former Cahokia High School track and field star Ja’Mari Ward wins the national championship in the long jump with a first place leap of 26 feet, 73/4 inches, at the U.S. Outdoor Track and Field Championships in Des Moines, Iowa.

31 – State Rep. Bruce Franks Jr. officially leaves office and leaves St. Louis to restore and improve his mental wellbeing.

Nas and Mary J. Blige perform at St. Louis Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre as part of their Royalty Tour.

AUGUST

1 – U.S. District Judge Nanette Laughrey orders more than 20 changes to the Missouri Parole Board, so it can stop violating the U.S. and state constitutions in its handling of juvenile cases.

A Brown School Washington University and Forward Through Ferguson study, “Falling Through the Cracks,” indicates that being black, male or having a disability places students at a 24.6 times higher risk of getting out-of-school suspension than white girls with no disability.

The theatrical production about Ferguson that premiered in January at the Black

Former Co Jesu Academy girls basketball star and Notre Dame assistant coach Niele Ivey accepts a job as an assistant coach of the NBA’s Memphis Grizzlies.

6 – Democrats former state Sen. Rita Heard Days in District 1 and Kelli Dunaway in District 2 win seats on the St. Louis Council, giving the body democratic control following scandalplagued Steve Stenger’s resignation as county executive. Dunaway is filling the unexpired term of Sam Page, who was appointed county executive after Stenger resigned. Days will serve the unexpired term of Councilwoman Hazel Erby, who resigned to lead diversity and inclusion efforts in Sam Page’s administration.

Mathews-Dickey Boys and Girls Club Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities junior division baseball team finishes second to the Chicago White Sox RBI in the Central Region Tournament in Minnesota.

9 – Michael Brown Sr. and his family hosts “As I see You: A Tribute to Mike Brown Jr.” at the Urban League’s Empowerment Center in Ferguson. The killing of his unarmed teenaged son by a Ferguson police officer Darren Wilson sparked months of demonstrations in St. Louis and around the globe against police brutality and killings of black and brown men and boys and demands for social justice.

Lezley McSpadden-Head lays a wreath at the grave of her son Mike Brown commemorating five years since the unarmed teenager was shot and killed

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by then Ferguson police officer Darren Wilson on August 9, 2014.

10 – Craig “Craig Blac” Shields holds his 19th annual back to school event, Community Cuts for Kids in St. Louis and East St. Louis, Illinois, which teams with area barbers and stylists to provide free haircuts and styles and school supplies for children ages 5-18.

15 – Rasheen Aldridge is nominated by the Central Democratic Committee to replace Bruce Franks Jr. in the 78th district in the state House of Representatives.

St. Louis firefighters rescue three children, all under age four, home alone during a fire at the Lafayette Family apartments.

Eric Schmitt, Missouri attorney general, files a motion claiming St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kimberly Gardner has no authority to ask the 22nd Circuit Court for a new trial for Lamar Johnson.

Barnes-Jewish Hospital opens a new 44-bed, Level 1 Neuro-Critical Care Unit, becoming one of the largest Neuro-ICUs in the country.

17 – St. Louisans marked the 40th anniversary of the closing of Homer G. Phillips Hospital, a training ground for black doctors and nurses and the largest employer in north St. Louis with two events at Better Family Life, sponsored by the Campaign for Respect, Fairness and Human Dignity and co-sponsored by The St. Louis American Newspaper and several other noted organizations and esteemed individuals.

20 – St. Louis lands a Major League Soccer franchise, awarded to the first female majority ownership group, which includes Patty Taylor, Jo Ann Taylor Kindle, Carolyn Kindle Betz and Chrissy Taylor

27 – The Ethical Society of Police begins its free 10-week Pre-Academy Recruitment Program course for persons interested in a career in law enforcement.

13 – Billionaire rapper Jay-Z announces a partnership with his company, Roc Nation and the National Football League, saying “I think we’re past kneeling. I think it’s time we go into actionable items,” to the dismay and anger of social justice activists.

22 – Iyanla Vanzant packs the Touhill

August 9 – Michael Brown Sr. and his family hosts “As I see You: A Tribute to Mike Brown Jr.” at the Urban League’s Empowerment Center in Ferguson.

Performing Arts Center to celebrate the 25th anniversary of her book “Acts of Faith” on her “Acts of Faith: Remix Tour.”

23 – St. Louis Community College celebrates the opening of the Center of Nursing and Health Sciences at its Forest Park campus.

26 – State health officials and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warn of the dangers of vaping as nearly 200 cases of severe lung illness in 22 states is associated with using e-cigarettes.

28 – The community holds a vigil for at least 15 children killed in gun violence this summer in St. Louis.

29 – The Brad Beal Elite 16U wins the basketball championship at the Jayhawk Summer Finale held in Overland Park, Kansas.

SEPTEMBER

3 – St. Louis Black Restaurant Week returns for its second year to ignite a renewed love for dining out.

A new report by the Washington University School of Law’s Interdisciplinary Environmental Clinic

says black St. Louisans are exposed to considerably greater environmental risks than white residents, contributing to stark racial disparities regarding health, economic burdens and quality of life.

4 – Healthcare for Missouri, a statewide coalition of healthcare professionals, launches a petition drive to get the Medicaid expansion question to voters in the 2020 election.

St. Louis-area native and star RB Ezekiel Elliott ends his holdout and becomes the highest paid running back in NFL history after he and the Dallas Cowboys agree to a six year, $90 million contract extension.

The Black Rep opens its 43rd season with “Don’t Bother Me I Can’t Cope” at the Edison Theatre at Washington UniversitySt. Louis.

5 – House of Miles, the childhood home of jazz great Miles Davis in East St. Louis Illinois, celebrates the first phase of renovations and the premier of the documentary “Miles Davis: Birth of the Cool” by filmmaker Stanley Nelson

6 – Rap star Nelly draws a home town crowd at nearby Alton Amphitheatre in Alton, Illinois.

9 – Michelle Sherod, longtime staffer for

former U.S. Senator Claire McCaskill, enters the race for the open seat of term limited Sen. Jamilah Nasheed’s Missouri’s 5th Senate District. Sherod is soon joined in the race by state Rep. Steve Roberts and St. Louis Alderwoman Megan Ellyia Green.

10 – St. Louis Comptroller Darlene Green calls on Mayor Lyda Krewson and the St. Louis Board of Aldermen to support up to $2 million for the Cure Violence program.

A St. Louis Crime Summit takes place behind closed doors at City Hall, with Mayor Lyda Krewson, Governor Mike Parson and County Executive Sam Page, with law enforcement and public safety leaders, without invitations extended to the black elected prosecutors, Circuit Attorney Kimberly Gardner and County Prosecutor Wesley Bell.

The St. Louis County Library partners with the St. Louis Area Diaper Bank to provide a one-time supply of diapers and assistance agency referral at its Florissant Valley and Lewis and Clark branches.

12 – Beyond Housing unveils its $10.5 million new affordable housing development, Pine Lawn Manor, site of 41 single family, three bedroom homes. Cure Violence reports back on its June 18 assessment of how the health-based violence prevention program could work in St. Louis.

14 – The Mother’s March to End Gun Violence takes place in Fairgrounds Park, nearly 300 strong, supported mother’s groups, Children’s Hospital, elected leaders, clergy and social justice organizations.

14 – Comedian J. B. Smoove brings his “circus performance” to The Pageant in St. Louis.

Team USA beats Poland for 7th place in its worst finish ever in the FIBA World Cup held in Beijing.

16 – Former Incarnate Word Academy girls basketball star Napheesa Collier earns 2019 Rookie of the Years honors by the WNBA.

17 – A class action lawsuit is filed against all 343 St. Louis police officers who worked the “kettling” arrests of 123 people during the officer Jason Stockley verdict protests.

20 – During the Global Climate Strike, hundreds gather at City Hall in St. Louis to march for action against climate change and Missouri’s environmental problems, including extreme heat and floods.

21 – The St. Louis American Foundation celebrates its 32nd annual Salute to Excellence in Education, including marquee Lifetime Achiever honors to Charles R. and Shirley Bowden Brown, Stellar Performer Valerie Bell, and other outstanding educators from area at America’s Center downtown.

OCTOBER

2 – Former Dallas police officer Amber Guyger found guilty of murder, receives 10 years for fatally shooting Botham Jean in his home.

3 – Washington University Chancellor Andrew Martin announces that qualifying low-income students in Missouri and Southern Illinois will receive free undergraduate education starting in 2020. Teen Center of Excellence, operated by Boys and Girls Club of Greater St. Louis, opens in Ferguson.

Schnucks announces that it will suspend tobacco sales in its supermarket.

4 – St. Louis County Prosecutor Wesley Bell files murder charges against Dawan Ferguson in the case of Christian Ferguson. The 10-year-old went missing in 2003.

5 – Tyler Perry holds a grand opening for 330-acre Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta.

8 – Community groups condemn St. Louis City Public Safety Director Jimmie Edwards for demonizing deceased children victims of gun violence.

16 – Retired Missouri Highway Patrol Captain Ron Johnson is appointed as law enforcement liaison by St. Louis City Circuit Attorney Kimberly Gardner.

18 – The Steward Family Plaza opens at the Sheldon Concert Hall.

19 – Memorial service held for local civil rights legend Norman R. Seay

Cardinal Ritter College Prep High School suspends football program for season and fires coaching staff after it is found that ineligible player suited up for team.

28 – YWCA receives $1.3M grant from

HUD to re-house women who became homeless due to domestic violence, sexual violence and stalking.

29 – The St. Louis County Board of Police Commissioners votes to initiate an independent review of St. Louis County Police after nearly $20M is awarded in a discrimination suit.

31 – Ameren Missouri breaks ground on $20M operating center in North St. Louis.

NOVEMBER

1 – Affinia opens substance use clinic at its Lemp Avenue location.

2 – Church of God In Christ convenes for 112th Holy Convocation. After several years in St. Louis, COGIC heads back to Memphis for its annual international convention after 2020.

4 – Siteman Cancer Center opens in North County.

5 – Rasheen Aldridge is elected to replace Bruce Franks Jr. as representative of the 78th House District.

Barnes Jewish Hospital in West County begins operations.

7 – Special prosecutor does not charge counsel for former governor Eric Greitens for threats against Circuit Attorney Kimberly Gardner when she refused to drop her case in 2018.

8 – Mayor Lyda Krewson announces that City Department of Health will lead violence prevention program Cure

December 18 – The U.S. House of Representatives votes to impeach President Trump.

25 – UAPO and family of Terry J. Tillman hold press conference to show new video evidence in shooting death of Tillman, who was fatally shot by a Richmond Heights Police officer.

26 – Thomasina Hassler and Dr. Laurie Punch are approved as members of the St. Louis County Board of Police Commissioners.

National Geospatial Agency breaks ground on $1.75B facility in North St. Louis.

30 – East St. Louis captures ninth state football championship with win against Crystal Lake Prairie Ridge.

DECEMBER

Violence, and receive $8M in city funds over three years.

Danielle Kain is named Boys and Girls Club of Greater St. Louis Youth of the Year.

St. Louis Metropolitan Police Officer Randy Hays pleads guilty to beating undercover cop Luther Hall during Jason Stockley verdict protests.

ArchCity Defenders commemorate 10th anniversary with gala featuring actor and activist Danny Glover

11 – Sumner High School Football program and coach Lawrence Walls inducted into St. Louis Sports Hall of Fame.

15 – Basketball legend Bill Russell finally accepts his Hall of Fame ring when Chuck Cooper, the first African American drafted by the NBA, is inducted.

16 – Colin Kaepernick works out for group of NFL teams in the hopes of getting signed. He began kneeling in protest of police killings of African Americans in 2016 and hasn’t played a game since going unsigned as a free agent in 2017.

18 – SSM St. Mary’s Health Hospital opens newly expanded emergency room featuring 9,000 additional square feet for patients and staff.

21 – 20th annual St. Louis American Foundation Salute to Excellence in Business honors best and brightest in the local business community.

3 – U.S. Senator Kamala Harris (D-California) ends her presidential bid.

4 – Missouri AFL-CIO endorses Missouri state auditor Nicole Galloway for governor.

6 – The ACLU asks U.S. Supreme Court to review lawsuit against prominent Ferguson activist DeRay McKesson that ruled in favor of a Baton Rouge, LA police officer.

Lawsuit is filed by transparency advocates alleging that St. Louis officials when they closed public meetings and public records regarding airport privatization deal. Lutheran North captures sixth state championship with win against Ava in the Class 2 state football championship.

10 – Family of Lamar Johnson and community activists demand Missouri AG Eric Schmitt to allow St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kimberly Gardner to try evidence that she says proves he is not guilty in the 1994 murder that has him behind bars for more than 25 years.

13 – House Judiciary Committee sends articles of impeachment against Donald Trump to the House floor.

Pioneering urban radio personality Tom Joyner bids farewell to listeners with the final broadcast of his eponymous syndicated morning program after 25 years.

18 – The U.S. House of Representatives votes to impeach President Trump.

In Memoriam 2019

JANUARY

10 – R&B and Pop Chart hit “Float On” singer and “The Floaters” cofounder Larry Cunningham dies at age 67 in Tucson, Arizona.

13 - Charmaine Savage, a retired U.S. Naval commander and founder and editor of the magazine “I Am East St. Louis,” dies of cancer at age 51.

community activist Nipsey Hussle, shot and killed at age 33 outside of his clothing store in Los Angeles.

15 – Tony Awardwinning “Hello Dolly” Broadway star and film actress Carol Channing dies at age 97 at her home in Rancho Mirage, California.

22 – Comedian and TV comedy series “Kel” co-creator Kevin Barnett dies in Mexico at age 32.

29 – Grammy nominated Soul and R&B singer James Ingram dies at age 66 of brain cancer in Los Angeles.

FEBRUARY

3 – “Young and the Restless” CBS soap star Christoff St. John dies at age 52 in San Fernando Valley, California.

6 – R&B and Funk record producer, songwriter and executive Lonnie Simmons at age 74 in Los Angeles.

MARCH

Diehl Trio) jazz drummer, dies in a domestic violence incident in New York City at age 37.

6 – Six-time Grammy winner and Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Dr. John (Malcolm John Rebennack Jr.) dies of a heart attack at the age of 77 in New Orleans.

9 – Richard Stephen Shaw, known professionally as rapper Bushwick Bill from the rap trio Geto Boys, passes at 52.

16 – St. Louis theatre actress Linda Kennedy of The Black Rep dies at age 68 after a battle with cancer.

APRIL

8 – Negro League veteran Samuel Taylor of East St. Louis and the former catcher for the Kansas City Monarchs dies at 92.

13 – Cheryle DylePalmer, Parents as Teachers leader, dies at 69.

18 – Julius Graves, who was tased and sedated by St. Louis police and fire department personnel on April 13, dies at 43.

29 – “Boyz in the Hood” director, film and TV producer John Singleton, dies at age 51 in Los Angeles following a stroke.

MAY

4 – Jaylon McKenzie, a Belleville eighth-grader who was regarded as a football phenom, is shot in Venice, Ill. and dies at 14.

12 – Agnes Marie Jackson, an angelic soprano voice from the choir of Newstead Avenue Missionary Baptist Church, dies at 87.

30 – Cataract laser treatment inventor, ophthalmologist Dr. Patricia Bath dies of cancer in California at age 76.

18 – R&B singer and songwriter Andre Williams dies of colon cancer in Chicago at age 82.

31 – Rapper, songwriter and

JUNE

2 – Lawrence Leathers, a Grammy Award-winning (Aaron

22 – Look Magazine and civil rights era photographer John Shearer dies of prostate cancer at age 72 in Eastham Massachusetts.

JULY

1 – Pioneer in black fashion, designer Arthur Lee dies in New York at age 86 following a prolonged illness.

9 – Phil Freelon, the Durham, N.C. architect who led the design the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington D.C. dies at age 66 of ALS.

SEPTEMBER

6 – Robert Mugabe, ex-president of Zimbabwe, dies at age 95 in a Singapore hospital.

6 – Black hair care Johnson Products cofounder, Joan Johnson, dies at age 89 in Chicago following a lengthy illness.

8 – Theatre, TV and film actor John Wesley, who played Dr. Hoover on “The Fresh Prince of Bel Air,” dies at age 72 after a long battle with multiple myeloma.

15 – Pioneer pilot Azellia White, who opened a flight school with her husband and two other Tuskegee Airmen after WW2 and helped pave the way for black women in aviation, dies at age 106 in Houston, Texas.

17 – Civil rights leader, educator and Alzheimer’s research advocate Norman Seay dies in St. Louis at age 87.

14 – Olympic Gold Medalist and Welterweight boxing champion Pernell “Sweet Pea” Whitaker dies at age 55 in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

22 – Art “Poppa Funk” Neville dies at age 81 in New Orleans. Neville was a founding member of the Neville Brothers and the Meters.

AUGUST

5 – Nobel laureate Toni Morrison dies at age 88 in New York following a brief illness.

12 – “Brown Girl, Brownstones” novelist, author Paule Marshall, dies at age 90 in Richmond, Va.

30 – International opera star, four time Grammy Award winner Jessye Norman dies in New York at age 74.

OCTOBER

4 – “Julia” TV star, Oscar nominated actress, Tony Award winner and singer Diahann Carroll dies of cancer at age 84 in Los Angeles.

17 – House Oversight and Reform Committee Chairman U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings of Maryland dies at age 68 after extended illnesses.

25 – Lion King actor Andile Gumbi dies at age 36 of cardiac arrest in Israel.

27 – Former U.S. Rep. John Conyers, founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus, dies in Detroit Mich. at age 90.

29 – “Pops,” from the “Friday” movies, comedian and actor John Witherspoon dies in Sherman Oaks, California, at age 77.

NOVEMBER

25 – Civil rights activist and Catholic priest, Rev. George Clements, the first priest in the Chicago area to adopt a child, dies at age 87 following a stroke and heart attack.

27 – Trailblazer and retired nurse Barbara Hillary, the first black woman to reach the North and South Poles, dies at age 88 in Queens, N.Y.

27 – Rev. Clay Evans, spiritual leader and gospel music icon, age 94.

28 – Retired longtime CEO of the St. Louis Metro Urban League James H. Buford dies at age 75 in St. Louis.

28 – Theo Jamison, renowned dancer and Dunham Technique instructor, dies of colon cancer at age 66 in Belleville, Ill.

DECEMBER

8 – Rapper Juice WRLD dies at age 21 after suffering a seizure following a flight to Chicago on his private jet.

7 – Jazz saxophonist Joe McQueen dies of cancer at age 100 in Ogden, Utah.

8 – “Big Bird” and “Oscar the Grouch” – retired Sesame Street puppeteer Carroll Spinney dies at age 85 in Woodstock, Connecticut.

12 – Comedy Central comedian Chris Cotton dies of an undisclosed illness at age 32.

12 – “Do The Right Thing” and “The Godfather, Part II” actor Danny Aiello dies at in New Jersey at age 86 after a brief illness.

Carol Channing

Norman Seay

Elijah Cummings

John Singleton

Diahann Carroll