July 24th, 2025 edition

Affinia to host three family Back-to-School bashes

St. LouiS AmericAn

Bill Clay Sr. was forceful political trailblazer

By Sylvester Brown Jr. St. Louis American

William L. Clay Sr., Missouri’s first Black congressman and a prominent civil rights leader who died last week, was one of the most consequential politicians in the state, rising to power during a period of entrenched racial discrimination that routinely relegated Black workers to low-paying, menial jobs.

Clay skillfully navigated the political and social climate of the time, launching a distinguished public service career that began with notable success as a St. Louis City alderman and led to a three-decade career in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Civil rights leader and first Missouri Black Congressman Board reviews school closure plan

“Bill, by any stretch of imagination, was really a radical politician who operated inside the system,” said Mike Jones, a former St. Louis alderman with decades of business and government experience. “His legacy

U.S. Rep. Bill Clay Sr., Missouri’s first Black congressman, served 16 terms in congress. He died last week at age 94.

A taste of the dental profession

SIU program gives teens hands-on introduction to oral health careers

By Ashley Winters St. Louis American

High school students from across the region explored what a future in healthcare might look like during Dentistry Day at Southern Illinois University’s School of Dental Medicine. The full-day event, part of the BESt Healthcare Institute’s 2025 summer program, combined interactive activities and expert-led sessions to introduce teens from multicultural backgrounds to the world of medicine and dentistry.

Paul Brown, a rising senior at Parkway Central High School, wants to pursue dermatology and was pleasantly sur-

Court of Appeals ends Homer G. Phillips Nurses Inc. lawsuit

prised by the hands-on experience. “I think I’m pretty good at filling cavities, so this might be an option.”

Tracy Machuki, a senior at Pattonville High School, also left the event with ideas about her career. “My day so far has been really, really fun,” she said. “I’ve been on the fence about pediatrics and dentistry, so I might combine them both.”

The four-week immersive program, held earlier this month, was designed to inspire the next generation of medical professionals. It was offered through a partnership between Barnes-Jewish Hospital, Express

Inc. and

By Alvin A. Reid St. Louis American

A year from now, as the 2026-27 academic year approaches, more than half of St. Louis Public Schools’ buildings could be shuttered.

The SLPS Board of Education heard a plan on Tuesday by architectural firm Cordogan, Clark & Associates that, if adopted, would close 38 of the district’s 68 schools. Included would be 27 elementary schools, five middle schools and five high schools.

If the proposed school closures move forward, private and charter schools would outnumber traditional public schools in the city.

The report predicts St. Louis’ population decline will continue over the next decade, and that the number of students in the school district also will keep falling.

The numbers are chilling: a 7% decline in St. Louis population and a 30% drop in student enrollment over the next decade.

SLPS closed the 2024-25 year with just over 18,000 students yet has the classroom space — including in schools not being used — to serve 30,000.

The May 16 tornado, which damaged

Gov. Kehoe signs bill repealing paid sick leave

By Sylvester Brown, Jr. St. Louis American

Missouri state workers will lose their accrued sick leave at the end of August under a new law signed by Gov. Mike Kehoe, following intense pressure from business groups and state lawmakers.

The measure unravels a key provision of a voter-passed proposition.

Last year, nearly 58% of Missouri voters approved Proposition A, raising the minimum wage and requiring paid sick leave. The measure boosted the minimum wage to $13.75 an hour in January and will raise it to $15 by January 2026. It also allowed state workers to begin earning one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked, starting May 1, 2025. The measure guaranteed sick leave for 728,000 workers who lacked it statewide, “or over 1 in 3 Missouri workers,” according to an analysis from the progressive nonprofit the Missouri Budget Project. In the late evening hours of May 14, 2025, the Missouri Senate passed a bill that basically repealed the mandatory paid sick leave requirements of Proposition A. Although the bill didn’t reverse the

SPORTS

STL

shines throughout America on hoops weekend

On Saturday night, Napheesa Collier’s

performance earned her Most Valuable Player honors at the WNBA All-

Game in Indianapolis.

The St. Louis County Court of Appeals has upheld the September 2024 ruling that ended the Homer G. Phillips Nurses Alumni Inc., trademark

Scripts,

Mentor coaching high school student at Dentistry Day, BESt Healthcare Institute 2025 Summer Program. A four-week summer intensive for area high school students interested in healthcare careers, hosted at Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine (SIU SDM) on Thursday, July 10.

Photo courtesy of SIU SDM

See CLAY, A6

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American

Malcolm-Jamal Warner dies at 54

Actor, poet and musician MalcolmJamal Warner drowned while in Costa Rica on a family vacation. He was 54.

He was best known for his role as Theodore “Theo” Huxtable on the classic NBC sitcom “The Cosby Show.”

Warner was just 14 when he became a permanent fixture of 1980s pop culture after being cast as Theo, a role he portrayed from 1984 until the show ended in 1992.

He voiced The Producer from 19941997 on “The Magic School Bus” and co-starred on the sitcom “Malcolm & Eddie” alongside comedian and actor Eddie Griffin. He remained a familiar face on the small screen thanks to roles in “Jeremiah,” “Sherri,” “Reed Between The Lines” and most recently “The Resident” and “9-1-1.”

He was also a Grammy winner. His win was in the Best Traditional R&B Performance category for the Robert Glasper Experiment’s 2015 song “Jesus Children,”

which also featured Lalah Hathaway.

Shannon Sharpe settles assault case lawsuit with accuser

Former NFL star-turned media personality Shannon Sharpe and the woman who accused him of sexual assault have settled their civil case, according to the accuser’s lawyer.

Tony Buzbee made the announcement on Instagram, months after his client, identified as Jane Doe made the disturbing bombshell allegations against the NFL Hall of Famer, podcast host and ESPN contributor.

“After protracted and respectful negotiations, I’m pleased to announce that we have reached a mutually agreed upon resolution,” Buzbee wrote. “All matters have now been addressed satisfactorily, and the matter is closed. The lawsuit will thus be dismissed with prejSharpe staunchly denied the allegations made by Doe in April in which she claimed he sexually assaulted and abused her as part of their years-long relationship.

Tyler Perry accuser’s case rejected by DOJ

Two weeks ago, actor Braxton Wells tagged President

Donald Trump and the Department of Justice in his social media post accusing Tyler Perry of turning a blind eye to abuse at Tyler Perry Studios.

Wells took to his social media channels to announce that the DOJ decided “not to take any further action on his complaint” upon reviewing his accusations.

“The U.S. Department of Justice just failed a survivor,” Wells wrote on his Instagram account. “Not just any survivor – a Black, 100 percent disabled Army veteran who served his country and was assaulted under false pretenses while working on a major TV show.” Perry has vehemently denied allegations.

Gala raises $1.2M for Megan Thee Stallion’s Pete & Thomas Foundation

Rap diva Megan Thee Stallion held the inaugural gala for her Pete & Thomas Foundation – and according to the organization’s Instagram account, the event raised more than a million dollars.

A-list stars such as Taraji P. Henson, Muni Long and D-Nice were among those who attended.

“The amount of love & generosity in the room was overwhelming & we raised over $1.2 MILLION to further the foundation’s work & impact,” the official Pete & Thomas Foundation IG page

said in a caption. The post also included a clip of Megan addressing the audience of the inaugural gala held on July 16 in New York City.

“I am standing here as a product of love and community,” Megan said. “Which is why I will always be committed to paying it forward.”

Former City High singer Robbie Pardlo passes at 46

Robbie Pardlo, former singer of the Grammy-nominated R&B group City High, has died. TMZ reported that Pardlo died on Thursday, July 17. No official cause of death has been revealed. Pardlo was 46.

Pardlo formed City High with his classmates Claudette Ortiz and Ryan Toby in 1999. The group began as a duo composed of Pardlo and Toby, but they soon invited Ortiz to join. The trio signed to Wyclef Jean’s label Booga Basement and in 2001 released their only album, self-titled debut that featured hits “What Would You Do?” and “Caramel” featuring Eve. City High disbanded in 2003. Pardlo was later a member of the R&B quartet First Take.

Sources: People.com, TMZ. com, Allhiphop.com, Yahoo.com, Instagram.com

Malcolm-Jamal Warner

“We’re on the 1-yard line and it’s time to get over the line. That’s what we’re focused on.”

- Washington D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser on possible Trump interference on new stadium deal for Commanders

MLK family calls release of assassination files ‘invasion of privacy’

By April Ryan The Afro

To the dismay of the children of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and other civil rights leaders, President Donald Trump has ordered the release of more than 240,000 pages of FBI documents related to the assassination of Dr. King in 1968.

“The emphasis here is to give Americans the truth,” said Trump Deputy Press Secretary Harrison Fields.

In late January of this year, President Trump signed Executive Order 14176, declassifying the records on the assassinations of President John Kennedy, Sen. Robert Kennedy, and Dr. King.

The King FBI files have been sealed since 1977. Subsequently, the civil rights leader’s two surviving children, Martin Luther King III and Bernice King, opposed President Trump’s January executive order. The King children cite the personal nature of their father’s 1968 assassination as the reason to keep the files sealed.

The Rev. Al Sharpton, the head of the National Action Network and close friend of the King family, said in a statement, “We need to be crystal clear on the fact that Trump releasing the MLK assassination files is not about transparency or justice, it’s a desperate attempt to distract people from the firestorm engulfing Trump over the Epstein files and the public unraveling of his credibility among the MAGA base.”

When Black Press USA asked Fields to comment on the timing of the release of the King files

amid furor over the Epstein files, Fields directed this news organization to the Department of Justice.

The King family requested to review the files before their release. Since the examination of the FBI files, the family declared the federal government’s investigation of their father “an invasion of privacy.”

The King family urged readers that “these files must be viewed within their full historical context.”

“During our father’s lifetime, he was relentlessly targeted by an invasive, predatory, and deeply disturbing disinformation and surveillance campaign orchestrated by J. Edgar Hoover through the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI),” they asserted. “The intent of the government’s COINTELPRO campaign was not only to monitor, but to discredit, dismantle, and destroy Dr. King’s reputation and the broader American Civil Rights Movement.”

Attacks against King’s character and reputation did not die, even after he did, his children found.

In her piece for Vanity Fair Bernice King wrote, “Our mother, Coretta Scott King, prepared us for these repeated attempts saying, ‘They keep trying to assassinate your father over and over again.’”

After the release of thousands of documents related to her father, King shared an impassive image of the Civil Rights leader on social media, with the caption “Now, do the Epstein files.”

The King family has doubted the historic narrative that convicted assassin James Earl Ray

The Martin Luther King Jr., Memorial statue in Washington D.C., was completed in 2011 and remains one of the most-visited monuments in the nation’s capital.

acted alone in the shooting death of King. The King Center released a statement on detailing legal actions following King’s Memphis assassination.

“Dr. King’s assassination was investigated by the FBI in 1968, by the House Select Committee on Assassinations from 1976 – 1978, by the Department of Justice in the 1990s, and again

with a wrongful death trial, brought by the King Family, in 1999. The Memphis civil court’s unanimous verdict in 1999 found that James Earl Ray was not that shooter. The verdict also validated the family’s belief that Loyd Jowers, a Memphis businessman, along with other parties, including various government agencies, conspired to murder Dr. King and frame Ray,” part of the statement reads.

“The wrongful death trial verdict begs the question, ‘Why would these entities conspire to murder Dr. King?’ Ensuring economic justice and racial justice, particularly in the areas of employment, livable wages, and voting rights, was the work in which Dr. King was engaged when then FBI Deputy Director, William Sullivan, described Dr. King as “the most dangerous and effective Negro in the country.” In a CNN report, reporter Chelsea Bailey writes “In the hours since the trove of documents was made available through the National Archives and Records Administration, experts have said the files do not appear to include any major revelations.

David Garrow, a historian and author of a Pulitzer Prize biography of King, told CNN the records offer an interesting procedural insight into the methods used by the FBI to surveil King, but so far, they don’t appear to offer anything that could shift his perspective on the civil rights leader.

April Ryan is the Washington bureau chief and White House correspondent for Black Press USA, which originally published this story.

Youth sports and the first day of school are right around the corner—but if your kid doesn’t get a physical, they could be left on the bench. For just $35, schedule a school or sports physical at a BJC Medical Group Convenient Care.

Same-day appointments are available at 10 locations across Missouri and Illinois.

Photo courtesy of The King Center

Editorial/Commentary

Guest Editorial Commentary

The call, the crisis, the charge

By Marc Morial

A war has been declared in this country. And the fight isn’t just for diversity, equity, and inclusion or for fair economic and criminal justice practices. It’s for the soul of America. It’s to determine which of us will have an opportunity not to prosper but merely survive in a future clouded with uncertainty at every turn. It’s for the fundamental right of Americans to protect themselves against predatory corporate practices, destructive environmental policies, and state-sanctioned violence by vigilantes and uniformed officers alike.

And it’s for the right etched in the very fabric of what it means to be an American, which is the right to vote in a fair and free democracy where every vote is counted and every vote matters. That is the war that has been brought to the feet of every American and the doorstep of the civil rights community at the top of this year. It’s the war being waged in courtrooms across this land, from local jurisdictions to the Supreme Court.

cy through every action taken by our Washington Bureau to hold elected officials accountable for their actions and inactions in this moment. We are demanding diversity through the collaborative work of our Demand Diversity Roundtable and by suing this administration for an outright racist executive order that is undermining our democracy, eroding trust in our systems, and dismantling our government.

For the Urban League movement, this state of emergency and scourge on our nation and community is a call to action.

It is no secret that we are in a state of emergency. The hard-fought victories of the Civil Rights movement, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Voting Rights Act of 1965, Equal Employment Opportunity laws, and the establishment of the Department of Education, are being systematically dismantled.

The Urban League has doubled down on its advocacy on Capitol Hill and at the White House, and moralized in the 49th edition of the State of Black America Report, State of Emergency: Democracy, Civil Rights, and Progress Under Attack.

The National Urban League movement is not backing down.

We are defeating poverty through every program offered through our affiliates. We’re defeating poverty through the work of our Equitable Justice and Strategic Initiatives division to correct a discriminatory and punitive system that keeps our people economically and civically disadvantaged and causes our communities irreparable trauma.

We are defending our democra-

Last week at our national conference in Cleveland, we convened affiliate leaders, community advocates, and thought leaders from across the country with one mission and a unified message: we are not backing down. We shared economic strategies to equip our communities and partners with the tools needed to help navigate an employment landscape that has become increasingly hostile towards people of color, especially Black women. We provided support and training for entrepreneurs and small business owners to thrive in the face of changing economic headwinds.

We invested in our young people at our annual youth summit as a reminder that even in a state of emergency, their dreams and ambitions are worth investing in and fighting for.

We developed civic engagement action plans to prepare our communities for the midterms in 2026 and support grassroots and civic engagement groups with the resources they need to fight back against rapidly expanding discriminatory voting laws.

We are taking the time to recognize every single person in this fight, thanking them for their contributions and reminding them why we do this work.

The Urban League movement is banding together to weather the storms to come, fight for our freedoms and Democracy in the face of tyranny, and equip our leaders every day to build a nation that reflects its values and its citizens.

Marc H. Morial is president and CEO of the National Urban League.

Empathy can move our nation

By Tara D. Wallace

Someone shared a story with me recently regarding a child speaking disrespectfully to a parent in public.

As they told the story, their body language shifted, their tone tightened, and it was clear they were reliving the moment with visible intolerance. The story was presented as evidence of a parent who simply didn’t care about how their child spoke to them. That moment opened a broader discussion on parenting, “out of control” kids, and the belief that today’s parents must do better.

As a child trauma therapist, I’ve seen those moments play out more times than I can count. As a single mother many years ago, I was that parent. And every time I found myself on the receiving end of glares, unsolicited advice, or outright judgment, I hoped the people watching wouldn’t break their ankles jumping to conclusions. Instead, I prayed they’d walk, carefully, intentionally, down the path of empathy, if only for a few steps.

adult, and hopefully, they begin asking uncomfortable questions. Why did we only eat rice for dinner every night? Why did we play “indoor camping” with candles and flashlights when it was not storming outside?

While childhood protection is necessary, it allows our children to hold onto wonder just a little longer. It also can unintentionally create a bubble that limits compassion.

When that bubble stays intact too long, it can create adults who ignore a mother begging for her child to use a locked restroom because she hasn’t purchased a beverage yet. A child who needs to use the bathroom urgently shouldn’t be up for a policy debate. But when policy is prioritized over people, we become complicit in inflicting pain. Empathy is not about perfection. It is not always convenient. But it is powerful. It pauses judgment. It redirects the impulse to react and replaces it with a willingness to listen.

If they had asked (and most didn’t), they would have learned that I was a single mom working full time, going to school full time, and raising a child with undiagnosed autism. Meltdowns, yelling, boundary-testing — those were daily experiences in our home. Sometimes the goal was just to make it to bedtime without either of us breaking. I didn’t forget how I was raised. I just had to decide which battles were worth fighting.

“Pick your battles” wasn’t a parenting strategy. It was survival. I needed to save my energy for the moments that felt like life or death, not for preserving the comfort of onlookers.

There’s a kind of disconnect I often see, especially from those who’ve never had to live in survival mode, or who didn’t even realize they were in survival mode.

At some point, that child becomes an

Empathy is not a weakness or passivity. It is a radical, active force that demands courage, humility, and perspective. It is time for an empathy revolution. In our families, in our communities, and in our politics, it is not enough to observe, we must choose to understand. The next time you see a human being reaching their limit, pause without mocking or questioning their struggle. Listen to their story and then act with compassion. Because when we choose empathy, we don’t just change outcomes, we change the world. Tara D. Wallace is a licensed clinician and trauma therapist in Topeka, Kansas. She is an adjunct professor and executive director of Lighthouse TCO Foundation, a nonprofit organization working to address racialized trauma in communities of color. This article was originally published by Kansas Reflector, a part of States Newsroom.

Has mainstream media been bought off?

By Aswad Walker

The mainstream media, a supposed bastion of “balanced reporting” and “objective journalism,” has fallen.

Once mainstream –i.e. corporate –media was celebrated as a courageous watchdog willing to speak truth to power, come what may. Today, much of that body of “journalists” has become hitmen for Rupert Murdoch and those of his ilk.

They’re like a 1960s police attack dog, protecting the racist mobs and the cops, sweat-drenched from beating the black off peaceful protesters with nightsticks, yet willingly and forcefully ripping out the flesh of those their masters target as troublemakers.

Plus, today’s corporate media is more “corporate” than “media,” ruled by that almighty dollar, and the person or entity signing off on their direct deposits.

Has mainstream media been bought off? If you have to ask, you haven’t been paying attention - and the media’s counting on that.

Let’s just say the fix is in, and the receipts are digital, color-coded and stamped with the logos of billion-dollar conglomerates.

cycle: The “Hands Off” Protest, where thousands of Black, brown, and working-class folks flooded streets in opposition to war, police violence, and empire, was mostly ignored.

-Union victories led by people of color—ghosted. You’d think the media would cheer on workers… but corporate owners prefer obedient labor.

-Nearly half of unhoused individuals are employed, yet we’re supposed to believe homelessness is a personal failure and not a system-wide scam?

-The growing number of missing Black women and girls is treated like background noise. If they were blonde and missing in Aruba, we’d have a week-long miniseries.

The so-called “cable news giants.” CNN, Fox, MSNBC—different seasoning, same dish. These networks are owned by right-leaning billionaires or massive corporations with tax shelters in places where the sun never sets on the wealthy. Their golden rule? Don’t bite the hand that funds the commercials.

Think about it: Do you really expect NBCUniversal (owned by Comcast), or ABC (owned by Disney), or Fox News to challenge the economic status quo? Please.

With marching orders from those who make their direct deposits, corporate media live by the adage, “If a critical event happens anywhere on the planet and we don’t report on it, it never happened.”

There’s not enough time or space to run down all the newsworthy happenings that got swept under the rug. Don’t believe me? Just roll the tape on all the stories that somehow missed your 24-hour news

-African nations rejecting neocolonialism in favor of self-determination? Heaven forbid Americans start thinking Africa is more than a charity case or a war zone.

Big Money Media has become anti-worker, anti-living wage, anti- democracy in much of its coverage. The result: a media ecosystem engineered to maintain the illusion of democracy while gatekeeping truth. What you see is not what you get. What you get is whatever doesn’t threaten a billionaire’s bottom line.

We can fight back. You don’t have to be media-rich to be media literate. Here’s a list of ways: Support the Black Press – Outlets like Word In Black, The Black Agenda Report, The St. Louis American, The AFRO and the Defender Network tell our stories, unfiltered.

-Subscribe to independent journalism – Publications like Democracy Now, The Intercept, Grist, Truthout, and ProPublica still believe facts matter.

-Use social media critically – Follow organizers, whistleblowers, and citizen journalists. And always ask: “Who benefits from this narrative?”

-Call out media silence – Write letters. Flood comment sections. Let them know we see the bias, and we’re not buying it. Aswad Walker in associate editor of the Houston Defender Network

Guest Columnist Aswad Walker

Harriet Tubman Transportation & Beyond will have an insured, air-conditioned, GPS-connected 13-passenger minibus serving schools, churches, and youth organizations across St. Louis city and county.

Non-profit school, church bus service in gear

The Harriet Tubman Transportation & Beyond non-profit company is offering students, organizations, and church groups rides during the coming school year.

“We’re creating a safe, community-rooted alternative for transporting our most precious cargo — our children,” says Bill Monroe, CEO and founder.

“Public transit, ride shares, and other private services are not designed with students in mind. It’s time for a solution that puts our children first.”

Monroe, a veteran and former police officer, said the initiative “is more than just a bus service.”

“It’s a movement toward safety, self-determination, and empowerment for children and families.”

Harriet Tubman Transportation & Beyond will have a fully licensed, insured, air-conditioned, GPS-connected 13-passenger minibus, serving schools, churches, and youth organizations across St. Louis city and county.

Parents can track the bus location in realtime through a secure mobile app.

“Each route is managed by trained, compassionate staff who know and care about the communities they serve,” according to Monroe.

Applications for bus drivers and bus aides are being accepted. The jobs pay $25 and $15 an hour, respectively.

“Our drivers aren’t just employees — they’re protectors, mentors, and neighbors,” Monroe said.

“We’re looking for people who want to be part of something bigger: restoring trust, safety, and pride in our neighborhoods.

“Harriet Tubman never lost a single passenger. That’s the spirit we’re embracing — ensuring every child makes it to school and back home safely.”

For scheduling, call (314) 437-6662. To apply for a position, send resumes to: harriettubman.inc@icloud.com

Being a love champion for justice

By Marian Wright Edelman

For people whose hearts are broken by seeing news of parents, families and children suffering anywhere, this has been a difficult month. It was an ideal moment to be buoyed by hopeful news like the messages the King Center in Atlanta shared during their celebration of Be Love Day on July 9, as they invited people to pledge to Be Love every day in order to create and strengthen the beloved community Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. envisioned.

As part of the Be Love pledge says: “I pledge to allow love to drive my thoughts, words, decisions and actions, and honor the humanity of every individual. I pledge to speak the truth to power in love. I pledge to focus on defeating injustice and not destroying the person. I pledge to support leaders who demonstrate a love for humanity. I pledge to promote unity and refuse to perpetuate or magnify division. I pledge to demonstrate a life of courage, care and compassion as I boldly confront anything that stands in opposition to love.”

This is a needed path. Later this month, faith leaders and child advocates will gather at Children’s Defense Fund’s Haley Farm in Tennessee, CDF’s own space for building beloved community, for the 2025 Hall-Proctor Institute for Child Advocacy Ministry. Named for Rev. Dr. Prathia Hall and Rev. Dr. Samuel DeWitt Proctor, this is a place where faith, action and joy come together to build a better world, and an experience that helps participants continue the necessary, hopeful, sacred work of pursuing justice and joy for all young people.

Ten years ago, the beloved late South African Archbishop and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Desmond Tutu sent attendees a video message with a timeless exhortation for this work: “Justice needs champions. Good leaders with the ability to identify the challenges and the tenacity to address them. Good leaders driven not by personal ambition, but by an innate desire to improve the circumstances of the human family and the human condition.” Archbishop Tutu continued: “We inhabit a moral universe. Goodness, righteousness and fairness matter. We are born to love — all of us, including Black, Latino and white [children] and everyone else. As members of the human family — God’s family — we were created with equal, infinite worth for interdependence. In conditions of harmony, equity, and common purpose, the whole family thrives. God does not use strong-armed tactics to ensure justice is done. God empowers us to do the right thing. It is up to us — you, and you, and you, and me.”

He then shared what he believed was God’s dream for all children: “And God says, I have a dream. I have a dream that all of my children will discover that they belong in one family — my family, the human family — a family in which there are no outsiders; all are held in the embrace of the one whose love will never let us go; that each one of us is precious to God because each of us has their name written on the palms of God’s hands. And God says, there are no outsiders — Black, white, red, yellow, short, tall, young, old, rich, poor, gay, lesbian, straight — everyone. All belong. And God says, I have only you to help me realize my dream. Help me.”

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

Photo courtesy of Tubman Transportation

Marian Wright Edelman

will be that he was a Black political leader who occupied the space of a real political leader. He made a permanent imprint on politics, St. Louis politics in general. He was a master in the art of politics.”

Clay, a St. Louis native, saw opportunity in the city’s growing Black population and Black workers’ mounting frustration with business policies and practices that held them back economically.

He returned to St. Louis in 1955 after serving a stint in the Army. The city had reached its peak population of almost 900,000 residents at that point. Between 1955 and 1961, Clay worked as a city bus driver, real estate broker and manager of Industrial Life Insurance Co. He unsuccessfully ran for alderman in 1959 while maintaining his roles as a union official and ward politician.

By 1960, St. Louis’ population had declined to about 750,000, with African Americans making up nearly 30% of residents. By 1968, that share had grown to just under 40%, according to U.S. Census data.

With its population growth, Black voter participation increased as well. Black St. Louisans had migrated west of downtown and were a majority in some previously allwhite wards. In 1963, Clay ran for alderman for the 26th Ward, and this time he won. He wasted no time shaking up the status quo with a numbers-driven report that same year about discriminatory hiring prac-

SLPS

Continued from A1

several schools, including Sumner High, will exacerbate the decline in city and school population, the report suggests.

tices of major corporations that led to several months of protesting aimed at Jefferson Bank & Trust Co. A significant precursor to the protest was a shrewd but effective move by Clay that relied on unwitting assistance by then-Mayor Raymond Tucker.

Clay described the move to the St. Louis American in 2008: “I was a member of the board of aldermen, and I requested the employment information by saying that Mayor Tucker wanted it to hopefully structure a piece of legislation to deal with (lack of diversity),” Clay said.

He used the data to produce a report titled “Anatomy of an Economic Murder,” which revealed that local companies — including Pevely Dairy, Anheuser-Busch, the Post-Dispatch, the GlobeDemocrat and several banks — employed few if any Black workers and had no Black employees in white-collar positions.

The report set off a firestorm in St. Louis’ Black community. The timing could not have been worse for white employers who refused to hire Black employees. Clay, in a 2008 interview with Robert Joiner for St. Louis Public Radio and the St. Louis Beacon, explained how the protest became part of a nationwide phenomenon:

“The Jefferson Bank confrontation began two days after a quarter of a million people took part in the historic March on Washington to demand passage of civil rights legislation,” Clay said. “So, what happened in St. Louis was part of a national movement.”

The 1963 March on Washington marked a pivotal moment of Black sol-

idarity, even in St. Louis. Clay said most Black participants in the Civil Rights Movement “were very cautious.”

“They weren’t cowards,” he said. “But they knew the capacity of white America with power to inflict pain on those who got out of line. But young Blacks who weren’t aware of this history and really didn’t give a damn just decided that they weren’t going to take it anymore.”

“This was a complete change in the mood of Black America,” Clay continued. “There also were older Black people who were waiting for somebody to provide a different kind of leadership, a more militant leadership, than what had existed.”

Clay, who had become frustrated with the typical conservative leadership of the local NAACP, joined the Congress for Racial Equality (CORE), a newer, younger and bolder organization. CORE led the Jefferson Bank protests. Black professionals risked their careers by participating. Clay was among them, and as a result, he

spent more than three months in jail and was forced to pay a hefty fine.

“Bill was a product of the civil rights and Black power youth generations of the 1960s,” said Mike Jones, who serves on The St. Louis American’s editorial board.

The bank sought a court order to stop the protests. Because police and the courts were targeting adult protesters, CORE leaders recruited high school students to join the crusade.

Former City Comptroller Virvus Jones was one of those young protesters. The junior high school student at the time had already been recruited by Clay, who organized the NAACP’s Youth Club.

“If you were arrested as a juvenile, you didn’t stay in jail; your mom or dad would just come and pick you up,” Virvus Jones recalled. “So, Clay and the other CORE leaders sent buses and cabs to pick us up after school.”

While the Jefferson Bank protests were unfolding, another local group — younger and more vocal — was also staging public

U.S. Rep. Bill Clay Sr. shakes hands with then-President Bill Clinton. Late former Gov. Mel Carnahan looks on.

demonstrations: the Action Committee to Improve Opportunities for Negroes (ACTION), co-founded by activist Percy Green.

In July 1964, almost a year after the Jefferson Bank demonstrations, Green and fellow ACTION member Richard Daly scaled a 125-foot construction ladder on the unfinished north leg of the Gateway Arch to protest the lack of African American inclusion in the project. The six-hour climb drew national media attention.

By 1968, St. Louis was one of many cities across the country where the Black revolution was simmering. That rage erupted nationwide after the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on April 4, 1968. Race riots broke out in more than 100 cities, fueled by social unrest, segregation, poverty and a lack of opportunity for Black Americans. St. Louis, with its strong base of Black activism, somehow avoided a riot. Black frustration was not only felt in the streets — it was expressed in

voter booths. A 1963 U.S. Supreme Court ruling mandating equal populations in congressional districts paved the way for Clay, in late 1968, to run for an open seat in Missouri’s First Congressional District, which included much of majority-Black north St. Louis. His message of equal employment opportunity resonated with fedup Black voters, allowing Clay to oust 22-year incumbent Frank Karsten to become the first Black Missouri congressman. Virvus Jones, fresh from the Vietnam War, joined Clay’s campaign. Clay won and joined five other Black politicians in Congress: Adam Clayton Powell Jr. (New York), William Dawson (Illinois), Charles Diggs and John Conyers (both from Michigan) and Shirley Chisholm — the first Black woman ever elected to Congress.

Reflecting on Clay’s early years in the U.S. House, Virvus Jones said, “From 1968 to probably 1973, Bill Clay was the preeminent voice of Congress. He was the Malcolm X of Congress, who had to fight every two years to stay in office.”

St. Louis American Publisher Donald M. Suggs said Clay’s personal attributes contributed to his political rise during a time of rigid segregation in St. Louis.

“They included a bold fearlessness, an ability to organize, charisma and a sharp tongue.” Suggs said. “His sensibilities were well-suited for the activism of the Civil Rights Movement that he bravely embraced without hesitation. He belongs in the pantheon of consequential Black leaders.”

On July 18, the SLPS board and American Federation of Teachers Local 420 signed an agreement regarding the co-location of schools caused by the tornado. It will begin when the new year starts on August 18. Earlier this month, Local 420 representatives stated that it was not consulted before a co-location plan was announced.

begins;

“This collaborative effort signifies a pivotal step forward in ensuring a supportive and safe educational environment for all SLPS students,” said Ray Cummings, Local 420 president.

When the school year

-Sumner High School and Fresh Start will be located at Stevens Middle School.

-Beaumont programs will be located at Clyde C. Miller Career Academy

-Yeatman Middle School will be located

at Innovation Concept Academy at Blewett

Soldan High School will be located at Gateway STEM High School.

These changes differ from the original plan announced by SLPS and come after negotiation with Local 420.

The co-locations for elementary schools remain as originally announced, including staff numbers.

-Ashland Elementary School will co-locate with Jefferson Elementary School.

-Hickey Elementary School will co-locate with Walbridge Elementary School.

-Washington Montessori Elementary School will co-locate with Ames Visual and Performing Arts.

“This agreement marks a new chapter of cooperation and progress for our district,” said SLPS Board President Karen CollinsAdams.

“We’ve worked diligently with the AFT to create a framework that supports both our students and our dedicated educators.”

She said the agreement [ensures] that co-location serves to strengthen our school communities.

“When we work together, we can do great things,” said Cummings. “Once again, St. Louis is on the cutting edge of labor and school districts working together.”

He said the partnership with SLPS in creating the updated co-location plan “will lead to more effective and equitable learning environments.”

“The agreement is a testament to what can be achieved when open dialogue is prioritized for the benefit of students and staff.”

Collins-Adams and Cummings also signed a Memorandum of Understanding that renewed the St. Louis Plan, a teacher introduction and support program that is now in its 17th year.

“When the plan started 17 years ago, half of our new teachers left after one

year. Without support, teachers leave the profession,” said Cummings.

“The program severs as ‘gatekeeper,’ and teachers receive extensive coaching, support, and evaluation.”

The plan includes a Peer Assistance and Review process for new and veteran teachers.

“We only want the best teachers in front of our kids,” said Cummings.

SLPS Block Party August 5

St. Louis Public Schools will hold its Back to School Block Party from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday, August 5 at the SLPS Central Office, 801 N. 11th Street The free event is open to all SLPS families, whether new or retuning to the district, and will include:

Open Enrollment

Register your child for the upcoming school year Bring your child’s birth certificate, proof of residency, and parent ID

Transportation

Registration Bus transportation information will be available, and questions are encouraged.

Health Resources Access medical, dental, and vision services, including physicals

ReHousing Recovery Fair

Explore resources from the St. Louis Housing Authority

Show Me Tech Fair

Explore the latest technology in education with hands-on experiences

There will be haircuts, styles ad “glam” stations, live entertainment and a DJ, #Lit4TheLou book giveaway, free school supplies, face painting and games, tornado relief supplies, and food trucks.

To register for the Back to School Block Party, please visit www.SLPS. org/RSVP

Photo by Maurice Meredith / St. Louis American

Advocates fight for energy forgiveness for neighborhoods decimated by tornado

By Ashley Winters

St. Louis American

Advocates and grassroots organizations publicly delivered a powerful message to Marty J. Lyons, the top executive of Ameren Missouri, demanding a halt to all utility disconnections through the end of the year and debt forgiveness for households along the halfmile path of the devastating May 16 tornado.

“The communities impacted by the tornado are among the same communities who suffer from some of the highest energy burdens in the St. Louis metro area,” said Mahala Pittman, her voice steady with urgency as she read aloud an open letter to Ameren Missouri’s leadership last week. “Many of the families impacted the worst by the tornado were already struggling financially — now they face an even bigger challenge as

they try to rebuild.”

The letter paints a dire picture of overlapping crises — chronic poverty, a lack of energy affordability, and now, the destruction of homes and lives in the wake of the tornado.

“The highest concentration of energy-burdened households are located right in the path of the tornado,” Pittman said. “These families are now at an even greater risk for disconnection.”

Ameren’s communications team said the company has donated $1 million to assist recovery efforts. “We remain committed to assisting those impacted by this storm and working with the community to assist in these ongoing recovery efforts,” the company said in a statement.

Advocates argue Ameren, a billion-dollar corporation that reported over a $500,000 in profits last year, is in a unique position to help. “Ameren

Ameren resources for storm-impacted customers:

• New Start Energy Relief program, which provides up to $1,000 to reestablish service for those homeless due to the storm.

• Ameren Missouri’s Weatherization program allows for certain storm repairs.

• Ameren Missouri’s Dollar More Disaster Relief program, which provides up to $500 for customers up to 300% FPL with active service.

• Access to a special payment arrangement requiring only 20% down, available for 90 days (through August 2025), for customers impacted by storm damage.

can afford to take a small loss in the interest of investing in our communities,” Pittman read from the letter. The message was clear: The company has both the resources and the responsibility to support the recovery of residents already teetering on the edge before disaster struck.

The open letter comes at a moment of heightened public concern over energy costs and access. In the backdrop is a recently approved Ameren rate increase, the rollback of federal utility assistance programs, like LIHEAP, under the Trump administration, and a new Missouri law that makes

it easier for electric utilities to raise rates. Added to that is a summer of intensifying heat waves, making it more expensive — and more dangerous — for families to keep their homes cool.

Energy burden, a term used to describe the disproportionate percentage of income residents spend on energy bills, has long plagued north St. Louis and surrounding areas. For these communities, the tornado didn’t create a crisis — it deepened an ongoing one.

Through the letter, the coalition demands more than just a pause on shutoffs. They are urging Ameren to acknowledge its role in the long-term recovery process and to commit tangible resources to residents who need them most.

Kristan Blackmon, executive director of Tenants Transforming Greater St. Louis, said

Ameren has the financial resources to do more for storm-affected residents.

“It’s not an ask — it’s a demand for them to do the right thing at this moment.” In response to the tornado, Ameren has introduced assistance programs, including the “How to Reestablish Electric Service initiative.” Under the program, homeowners can have their electricity reconnected without paying an activation fee once they are cleared by local authorities. Ameren also has implemented Temporary Process Changes to further support storm-impacted communities. In the hardest-hit areas, the utility is pausing service disconnections for nonpayment for 60 days, through the end of July. Additionally, customers affected by the storm will not be required to pay upfront deposits for new service through the end of August.

Sheriff’s lawyers move to dismiss AG’s case to remove him

By Sylvester Brown, Jr. St. Louis American

Lawyers representing Sheriff Alfred Montgomery have asked the court to dismiss a case brought in June by Missouri’s attorney general seeking to remove him from office.

The lawyers told retired St. Louis Circuit Judge Steven R. Ohmer this week that Attorney General Andrew Bailey was attempting to overturn the will of city voters with claims that lack legal foun-

Dentistry

Continued from A1

dation and appear to be “objectively false.”

“As with any elected officeholder, voters have the right to be satisfied or dissatisfied but their remedy is at the polling place at the next free and fair election, not in a court proceeding that amounts to no more than a political stunt,” Montgomery’s attorneys said in a court filing this week. Bailey is using the same “quo warranto” legal process he used in 2023 when he attempted to remove St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner

from office. Gardner, however, resigned before the case went to court, which nullified Bailey’s lawsuit. Quo warranto has been defined as “a legal action used to challenge someone’s right to hold a public office or franchise.” It was not traditionally used to address misconduct in office but rather to determine if the person is legally entitled to hold their position.

In their filings, Montgomery’s attorneys challenged the legality of Bailey’s lawsuit, arguing that the legal route Bailey

is taking “does not apply in this matter and should not serve to oust a democratically elected sheriff.

When Bailey announced his lawsuit against Montgomery, he claimed the sheriff had abused his “authority and resources repeatedly for his own personal benefit.”

He asked a judge to force Montgomery to immediately surrender his badge, weapon and vehicle, and “forbid him from exercising any authority as an elected official, pending further proceedings.”

But at the first hear-

ing of the suit on July 9, Judge Ohmer noted that in other cases where such action had been taken, the officials had been charged with crimes. Bailey has made allegations against Montgomery, but no charges have been filed.

Ohmer called Bailey’s request for Montgomery’s immediate removal “a drastic step” and ordered the sheriff to remain in office and continue performing his official duties.

Although the first hearing was designed to develop an “informal road map” for an even-

tual trial, Montgomery’s lawyers immediately started dissecting Bailey’s charges. Retired Judge David Mason challenged Bailey’s allegation that Montgomery failed to take inmates for medical treatment by providing a copy of a contract that explicitly dictated that the city — not the sheriff’s department — is responsible for “administering, managing and supervising healthcare” for inmates Sylvester Brown Jr. is the Deaconess Foundation Community Advocacy Fellow.

“Our goal is to provide these students with valuable insights and hands-on experiences that highlight the opportunities and rewards of pursuing a career in dental health,” said Dr. Nathalia Garcia, an SIU professor and assistant dean for career development who helped facilitate the dental

Kehoe

Continued from A1 Washington University in St. Louis.

Proposition’s minimum wage mandates, it did remove the dictate that future annual minimum wage increases be based on the Consumer Price Index.

Kehoe, in a statement after signing the bill, said he did so to defend small businesses. “Today, we are protecting the people who make Missouri work — families, job creators, and small business owners — by cutting taxes, rolling back overreach, and eliminating costly mandates,” Kehoe said.

Missouri House Democratic leader Ashley Aune of Kansas City disagreed:

“The governor’s action today demonstrates the absolute disdain Republicans have for working Missourians,” Aune said. Although she criticized the governor and her Republican colleagues, Aune predicted their actions will backfire.

“In stripping workers of their legal right to earned sick leave, the governor

school’s participation. Beyond drills and dental molds, Dentistry Day offered something even more meaningful — affirmation. Students received valuable insights from a panel of dental and pre-dental students, along with a dental hygienist, assuring them that they belong in the profession. It was the first time many of the teens could see themselves in white coats. The message was clear — the future of healthcare needs more voices, faces and perspectives like theirs.

and his allies have probably guaranteed this issue will be back on the ballot next year as a constitutional amendment that will place worker protections beyond their reach.”

Aune referred to what the Missouri Independent described as “a pattern established over the past 15 years where conservative Republicans have used their majorities in the legislature to roll back or repeal measures that became law through initiatives pushed to the ballot by progressive groups.” Because the minimum wage initiative was a statutory proposition, lawmakers were able to make changes if they could muster a majority vote, which they did.

“The law should not have been messed with at all by politicians in Jefferson City or their corporate lobby buddies,” Richard Von Glahn, policy director for Missouri Jobs with Justice, said. “It was passed overwhelmingly, upheld unanimously by the Supreme Court and it went into effect over two months ago as the voters intended.” According to the

“One of our dental students shared that she never thought she was good enough for dentistry until a college professor told her, ‘Oh, you have a lot of talent to become a doctor.’ That moment made her believe she could pursue the profession because somebody believed in her potential,” Garcia said.

The SIU dental school collaboration with BESt Health Care Summer Institute was established to encourage dentistry as a career. The partnership aims to provide

Missouri Independent, the GOP’s willingness to overturn voter actions has led many initiative organizers to push their proposals as constitutional amendments, which require a statewide vote to repeal or revise.

Von Glahn, whose organization helped lead the campaign for paid sick leave, has filed a proposed constitutional amendment for the proposition on the 2026 ballot.

Lobbying firms for business groups challenged the sick leave provisions based on perceived negative economic impact on businesses in the state. In a statement after Kehoe signed the anti-sick leave legislation, Kara Corches, president and CEO of the Missouri Chamber of Commerce, described the paid sick leave proposal as a “job killer.”

“Missouri employers value their employees and recognize the importance of offering competitive wages and benefits, but one-size-fits-all mandates threaten growth,” Corches said.

State Rep. Betsy Fogle, a Springfield Democrat, challenged Corches’ posi-

high school students with resources and mentorship to ignite an interest in dental careers.

Ava Tobias, a senior at Incarnate Word Academy, said she’s been interested in medicine since she was much younger, inspired by television shows like “Doc McStuffins.” She said she’s intrigued by dentistry

“I like how delicate it is,” she said. “And the type of interaction you’re having with patients, dentistry is more positive than not.”

In 2020, the number of

tion arguing that when

“Missouri workers are successful, businesses will succeed.”

“The idea that providing workers with more protections is a business

African American dentists reached 5,039 — just 3.8% of dentists nationwide, according to The Journal of the American Dental Association. SIU dental student A’lonn Love believes the small percentage of Black dentists is a motivator for introducing high school students to the profession.

“I knew I wanted to go to dental school when I was 16,” Love said. “I knew I wanted to go there, but I didn’t know how to get there.”

In the afternoon Dental

killer is wild,” Fogle said.

“To try to make this seem like this is something that will kill business, that will keep businesses from opening, I think it’s absurd, and I think it’s

Day session, students rolled up their sleeves for hands-on exercises inside the school’s simulation lab. Guided by faculty and dental students, they practiced cavity preparation, learned how fillings are placed, and explored the basics of dental modeling — getting a real feel for the skills and precision the profession demands.

“There are no barriers. The sky is the limit,” Garcia said. “You can do whatever you want if you have passion and determination to do it.”

quite disappointing, and I think it sends absolutely the wrong message.”

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

HealthMattersHealthMattersHealthMatters

Affinia to host three family Back-to-School bashes

Vaccinations available at two

Melanie Vaughn, WIC certifier, assists a family during the 2023 Affinia Healthcare Back-to-School Bash at the 4414 N. Florissant Avenue location. This year Affinia back-to-school events will be held at the Lemp Avenue, Ferguson, and Biddle Street locations. Vaccinations and physicals will be available at the Lemp Avenue and Biddle Street events.

St. Louis American

Affinia Healthcare will host a trio of free Back-to-School Bash events for families beginning at 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, July 26 at Affinia’s 2220 Lemp Avenue in South St. Louis.

The second Bash will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, August 2 at the Ferguson health center, 3396 Pershall Road. Physical examinations and immunizations will not be available during this event.

n There will be a third Backto-School Bash held at the downtown west health center at 1717 Biddle Street from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, August 9.

There will be a third Back-toSchool Bash held at the downtown west health center at 1717 Biddle

Street from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, August 9.

“Affinia Healthcare is proud to be a part of the community and offer these vital services for families and youth,” said Dr. Kendra Holmes, Affinia Healthcare President & CEO.

“Good health is critical to doing well in school and we want to make sure that our community has the health and wellness resources necessary to show up on the first day ready to learn

See AFFINIA, A9

Obamacare consumers face major cost increases

Health insurers pushing back

By Julie Appleby Kaiser Health News

Most of the 24 million people in Affordable Care Act health plans face a potential one-two punch next year — double-digit premium increases along with a sharp drop in the federal subsidies that most consumers depend on to buy the coverage, also known as Obamacare.

Insurers want higher premiums to cover the usual culprits — rising medical and labor costs and usage — but are tacking on extra percentage point increases in their 2026 rate proposals to cover effects of policy changes advanced by the Trump

administration and the Republicancontrolled Congress.

A key factor built into their filings with state insurance departments: uncertainty over whether Congress allows more generous, Covid-era ACA tax subsidies to expire at the end of December.

“The out-of-pocket change for individuals will be immense, and many won’t actually be able to make ends meet and pay premiums, so they will go uninsured,” said JoAnn Volk, co-director of the Center on Health Insurance Reforms at Georgetown University. See OBAMACARE, A9

Checklist for backto-school

By Denise Hooks-Anderson

It’s that time of year again where parents are running around preparing for the upcoming school year. Stores are offering sales on essentials such as pencils, notebooks, and computers. Let’s not forget the new school clothes because kids are insisting that they have the latest outfits and sneakers for that first day impression.

However, might I add that these tangible items are important, but there are many more things to consider when preparing our kids and teens for back-to-school.

n The first step is to ensure kids have a preventative visit with their provider once a year.

Transitioning from summer break to the structured environment of school presents unique challenges and opportunities to promote healthy habits. Health recommendations for children and teens as they head back to school include physical, mental, and emotional well-being, aiming to support their success in and out of the classroom. The first step is to ensure kids have a preventative visit with their provider once a year. It is at this visit that immunizations can be discussed and reviewed to make sure they are up to date. For instance, children entering kindergarten typically need MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella), IPV (polio), and DTap (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis). These vaccines generally complete the series that began when they were infants. For teens, tetanus boosters, the meningococcal vaccine, and the HPV vaccines are generally given around this time.

In addition to providing immunizations, performing a physical exam is typically done as well, especially for athletes. Reviewing the growth chart and determining if the child or teen is at risk of obesity, checking their vision/ hearing, and screening for scoliosis are included in the evaluation. It is also during this time that nutrition is discussed.

See ANDERSON, A9

Photo courtesy of Affinia

Photo courtesy of archive.gov

Marcelas Owens, left, was 11 when President Barack Obama signed the historic Affordable Care Act on March 23, 2010, at The White House. Owens’ mother Tifanny was uninsured when she died in 2007 and joined his grandmother, a Washington Community Action Network member, in support of the bill. ACA consumers are bracing for a double-digit premium increase along with a sharp drop in the federal subsidies in 2026.

Denise HooksAnderson

Affinia

Continued from A8

and succeed.”

The back-to-school events will feature free school supplies, health screenings, school physicals, and immunizations, Medicaid application assistance, and community resources. No appointment is necessary; walkins are welcome.

The events are free and open to the public.

Home State Health, Healthy Blue and Shriner’s Children’s Hospital are co-sponsors for the Back-to-School Bash.

Affinia awarded $25K for community outreach

Affinia Healthcare has been awarded a $25,000 grant from the Episcopal Presbyterian Health Trust to support community outreach events for increased access to health care.

“This generous grant supports our continued commitment to delivering essential care to uninsured and underinsured individuals in our community,” said Holmes.

The funding will support 12 outreach events planned throughout the remainder of the year, with an opportunity for the

HealthMattersHealthMattersHealthMatters

grant to be renewed for two additional years.

Outreach events are held to offer Medicaid enrollment and appointment assistance.

The outreach team also organizes medical and dental events for adults and children at the various health centers, and a monthly mental health event for men. The grant will help cover expenses related to outreach initiatives including facility and security staffing, incentives, and marketing.

“Our Outreach team works to ensure everyone in the community has access to healthcare by eliminating barriers like lack of insurance,” said

Outreach Director LaDon Meriweather. “Receiving this grant helps us to continue our efforts to ensure anyone who may be eligible to receive Medicaid and access high quality healthcare, can do just that.”

On average, the Outreach Team assists with processing 120 Medicaid applications weekly.

The St. Louis Community Foundation serves as the liaison for the grant and will help to facilitate related reporting.

To schedule an appointment, please call (314) 814-8700.

Affinia has also announced it is reopening

its Pagedale health center at 6763 Page Avenue on Monday, August 4. Its hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and offers adult primary care, women’s health, pediatric care, immunizations, and lab services.

In addition to Pagedale, Affinia Healthcare operates six other health centers providing medical, behavioral, and dental services. They are conveniently located at: 1717 Biddle Street, St. Louis, 63106, Monday –Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. 4414 N. Florissant, St. Louis, 63107, Monday –Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

2220 Lemp Avenue, St. Louis, 63104, Monday –Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

3396 Pershall Road, Ferguson, 63135, Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

3930 S. Broadway, St. Louis, 63118, Monday –Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The St. Louis Dental Center, 1500 Park Avenue, St. Louis, 63104, Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Obamacare

Continued from A8

Especially if the higher subsidies expire, insurance premiums will be among the first financial pains felt by health care consumers after policy priorities put forward by President Donald Trump and the GOP. Many other changes — such as additional paperwork requirements and spending cuts to Medicaid — won’t occur for at least another year. But spiking ACA premiums, as the nation heads into key midterm elections, invites political pushback. Some on Capitol Hill are exploring ways to temper the subsidy reductions.

“I am hearing on both sides — more from Republicans, but from both the House and Senate” — that they are looking for levers they can pull, said Pennsylvania-based insurance broker Joshua Brooker, who follows legislative actions as part of his job and sits on several insurance advisory groups.

In initial filings, insurers nationally are seeking a median rate increase — meaning half of the pro-

Anderson

Continued from A8

Children/teens should be eating a well-balanced diet that includes fruits, veggies, protein, and minimal sugar. Just because the bottle says “100% juice” does not mean that it does not contain a lot of sugar. Most of these juice drinks have 30-50 grams of sugar

posed increases are lower and half higher — of 15%, according to an analysis for the Peterson-KFF Health System Tracker covering 19 states and the District of Columbia. KFF is a national health information nonprofit that includes KFF Health News.

That’s up sharply from the last few years. For the 2025 plan year, for example, KFF found that the median proposed increase was 7%.

Health insurers “are doing everything in their power to shield consumers from the rising costs of care and the uncertainty in the market driven by recent policy changes,” wrote Chris Bond, a spokesperson for AHIP, the industry’s lobbying group. The emailed response also called on lawmakers “to take action to extend the health care tax credits to prevent skyrocketing cost increases for millions of Americans in 2026.” Neither the White House nor the Department of Health and Human Services responded to requests for comment.

These are initial numbers and insurance com-

per serving. Milk and water should be the beverages of choice for children/teens. Remember, children/teens are still growing and need milk for healthy bone development. Teen years are challenging in many ways. Teens may appear as adults on the outside, but their emotional intelligence has not quite reached adulthood.

missioners in some states may alter requests before approval.

Still, “it’s the biggest increase we’ve seen in over five years,” said analysis co-author Cynthia Cox, a KFF vice president and director of its Program on the ACA.

Premiums will vary based on where consumers live, the type of plan they choose, and their insurer.

Most insurers are asking for 10% to 20% increases, the KFF report says, with several factors driving those increases. For instance, insurers say underlying medical costs — including the use of expensive obesity drugs — will add about 8% to premiums for next year. And most insurers are also adding 4% above what they would have charged had the enhanced tax credits been renewed.

But rising premiums are just part of the picture.

A bigger potential change for consumers’ pocketbooks hinges on whether Congress decides to extend more generous tax credits first put in place during President Joe Biden’s term as part of

Outside influences from friends, intimate relationships, and substance use are widespread regardless of race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status. Therefore, prior to the school year, providers should be spending some one-on-one time with these teens assessing for substance abuse, intimate partner violence, depression, and eating disorders. This is also a

the American Rescue Plan Act in 2021, then extended through the Inflation Reduction Act in 2022.

Those laws raised the subsidy amounts people could receive based on their household income and local premium costs and removed a cap that had barred higher earners from even partial subsidy assistance. Higher earners could still qualify for some subsidy but first had to chip in 8.5% of their household income toward the premiums.

Across the board, but especially among lower-income policyholders, bigger subsidies helped fuel record enrollment in ACA plans.

But they’re also costly.

A permanent extension could cost $335 billion over the next decade, according to the Congressional Budget Office.

Such an extension was left out of the policy law Trump signed on July 4 that he called the “One Big Beautiful Bill.” Without action, the extra subsidies will expire at the end of this year, after which the tax credits will revert to less generous pre-pandemic levels.

great time for the parents to share with the provider if they have noticed a change of behavior with their teens because those subtle changes could be warning signs of stress or anxiety.

These back-to-school physicals also provide a space to discuss the importance of hygiene. Think of schools as germ-laden environments where one virus, bacteria,

That means two things: Most enrollees will be on the hook to pay a larger share of their premiums as assistance from federal tax credits declines.

Secondly, people whose household income exceeds four times the federal poverty level — $84,600 for a couple or $128,600 for a family of four this year — won’t get any subsidies at all.

If the subsidies expire, policy experts estimate, the average amount people pay for coverage could rise by an average of more than 75%. In some states, ACA premiums could double.

“There will be sticker shock,” said Josh Schultz, strategic engagement manager at Softheon, a New York consulting firm that provides enrollment, billing, and other services to about 200 health insurers, many of which are bracing for enrollment losses.

And enrollment could fall sharply. The Wakely Consulting Group estimates that the combination of expiring tax credits, the Trump law’s new paperwork, and other requirements will result in ACA enrollment

fungus, or parasite in the classroom can spread like wildfire.

Good hand washing, knowing how to properly cover your cough/sneeze, and reinforcing that it is not ok to share water bottles or wear someone else’s hat should be discussed during this time.

Back-to-school preparation can be stressful and expensive. However, it is important not to forget

dropping by as much as 57%.

According to KFF, insurers added premium increases of around 4% just to cover the expiration of the enhanced tax credits, which they fear will lead to lower enrollment. That would further raise costs, insurers say, because people who are less healthy are more likely to grit their teeth and reenroll, leaving insurers with a smaller, but sicker, pool of members. Consumers — Democratic and Republican — have come to rely on the additional assistance. Not extending it could be risky politically. In 2024, 56% of ACA enrollees lived in Republican congressional districts, and 76% were in states won by Trump.

Allowing the enhanced subsidies to expire could also reshape the market. Brooker said some people may drop coverage. Others will shift to plans with lower premiums but higher deductibles.

“Naturally, if rates do start going up the way we anticipate, there will be a migration to lower-cost options,” Brooker said.

Dental services are available at the Biddle, N. Florissant, Ferguson locations, and the St. Louis Dental Center. To schedule a dental appointment, call (314) 833-2758. Your Health Matters is provided in partnership with

to prepare children and teens mentally, physically, and emotionally. A proactive approach to pediatric health not only supports academic achievement but also lays the foundation for lifelong well-being. Denise HooksAnderson, MD, FAAFP can be contacted at yourhealthmatters@ stlamerican.com

Religion “Faith-Filled Families”

offers insight into reaching children

Book supports Christian parenting

By Rev. Dorothy Boulware

Word In Black

Proverbs 22:6 instructs the community of faith to “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”

Great advice, sure, but some would say, easier said than done. Who knew the future would bring customized programming and funding to make it possible? But Faith-Filled Families: Christian Practice for Abundant Parenting is helping to reimagine what Proverbs 22:6 looks like in practice.

Indeed, the growing spiritual formation project, which is based at Virginia Theological Seminary in Alexandria, Va., offers a range of resources to help parents carry out their spiritual responsibility to nurture faith at home with their children.

invited the school, Virginia Theological Seminary, to apply for a Christian Parenting grant,” Sweeting says.

“It was the first time they were offering it, and my professor asked if I would help her write it.”

The idea: to help churches with preschool programs and support Christian parenting at every level. With her background directing Christian preschools in Orlando, Sweeting stepped in as project director — and brought along Dr. Missiouri McPhee, a theologian and longtime friend.

”I’m a practical theologian, but more practical than the theological part sometimes. And I knew what I needed and that she had it,” Sweeting says.

McPhee was capable and willing to be a part of this endeavor.

The initiative began with Donna Sweeting who unexpectedly found herself sitting in seminary classes during the pandemic, and always raising one key question: “How are we welcoming the children into church?”

Her questions turned into action.

“About a month before I got ready to graduate, one of my main professors told me that Lilly Endowment had

“What we are attempting to do is to create resources for families to make it not as taxing,” McPhee says. “Unfortunately, some families feel they have to be straight theologians in order to engage in faith formation with their children.

McPhee says she loves “making the Bible come to life, faith formation come to life, and parents getting it and feeling comfortable in transmitting their

faith to their children or godparents or grandparents.”

The team’s first volume of devotionals is written by clergy from Episcopal, AME, CME, and Pentecostal traditions — and even features international contributors, like a chaplain from Nagaland, India, who wrote in

both English and Sumi. One Spanish chaplain also contributed in both English and Spanish.

“We’ve had hospital, hospice, community and daycare chaplains as writers. We’ve had clergy who are leaders in their field, in terms of working with children,” McPhee says.

I used to believe that being a good leader meant being everywhere at once. On the surface, it looked like commitment. But deep down, it was fear. Fear that if I let go, I’d let people down.

It took years for me to realize: Holding on wasn’t helping. It was hurting. It was keeping others from rising. And it was weighing me down. Most leaders don’t fail from a lack of effort. They fail from doing too much of what others could do — because letting go feels like losing control.

One of the most powerful leadership lessons I’ve learned is: Do only what only you can do. It sounds simple. But it’s deeply countercultural — especially in high-achieving spaces where value is equated with output.

The Trap of Holding On Recently a leader told me he wanted to go to the next level. But he was doing most of the work himself. My response: If you don’t let go, you’ll never grow. You can’t move to the next level while clinging to the last one. Many of us struggle to let go. We cling to tasks we’re good at. But real leadership isn’t about proving your worth through activity. It’s about amplifying the worth of others. The question I learned to ask myself was: “If someone else can do this well, why am I still doing it?”

Letting Go Isn’t Losing Control

When I transitioned into the CEO role at United Way, I had a reckoning. As Executive VP, I was involved in everything. But as CEO, I wasn’t supposed to be everywhere. I was supposed to be above it — setting direction, removing barriers, and building capacity.

During a leadership assessment, the feedback was blunt: “You’re too close to the operational details. You’ve got to pull up.” That stung. But it was true. I needed to hire well, trust boldly, and focus only on the decisions only I could make.

‘Training up a child’ in faith is goal of new ministry book

In addition to the devotional there are subscription boxes and prayer cards, all available on Amazon as well as the FaithFilled Families website.

The prayer cards are a hit — especially with nervous adults.

“Have you ever asked an adult to pray in church? I mean, like an officer of the church? And you watch the color drain from their faces as they assume the position?” McPhee says. “So we came up with this concept of having the prayer cards for the parents, and we’re working on the prayer cards for the kids.”

Each prayer card uses both colors and letters for accessibility and the initiative even has a mascot named EDGE — which stands for Explain, Demonstrate, Guide and Empower. And the learning doesn’t just stay in classrooms or boxes.

“I’ve partnered with three churches and we have monthly dinners,” Sweeting says. “We put together some type of activity for the family and do that activity with them. Then we send them home with a resource they can use to build on the subject we explored — but we always start with dinner.”

Practicing Intentionality at the Bank I carry this into my role at the Bank. Every day presents dozens of opportunities to insert myself — projects I could lead, meetings I could attend, decisions I could weigh in on. But that doesn’t mean I should.

Leadership requires restraint. It requires intentionality. It requires knowing your highest value — and staying anchored there.

Systems Create Freedom

One of the most important tools in this journey is documentation — standard operating procedures, transition plans, scorecards, dashboards. These systems let me stay informed without being entangled. And they give my team the structure they need to operate with confidence.

Leadership isn’t about managing every detail. It’s about building a platform — and getting out of the way.

Challenge: A Hard Look in the Mirror Take a moment to check yourself. Look at your calendar. Your inbox. Think about what’s keeping you up at night. Now ask: Where am I the bottleneck? What am I holding on to — out of fear, ego, or habit?

True growth begins when you’re honest with yourself and brave enough to act on it. You don’t scale by doing more. You scale by creating space for others to thrive.

Final Word

In Exodus 18, Moses’ father-in-law tells him: “What you are doing is not good. You will surely wear yourself out — both you and these people with you.” He was leading alone. Doing too much. The solution wasn’t more effort — it was shared leadership. Trust. Structure. Faith.

What’s one thing you need to let go of this week? What are you holding that someone else can carry? What’s weighing you down that God never asked you to hold? Start there. Let go. Breathe. Trust. Because when you release what’s not yours to hold, others rise — and so do you.

“Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you.” – Psalm 55:22

Court of Appeals ends Homer G. Phillips Nurses Inc. lawsuit

and supporters

September 2024 ruling to end a trade infringement lawsuit against developer Paul McKee was upheld by the County Court of Appeals.

By Alvin A. Reid St. Louis Americcan

The St. Louis County Court of Appeals has upheld Judge Heather R. Cunnigham’s September 2024 ruling that ended the Homer G. Phillips Nurses Alumni Inc., trademark infringement lawsuit.

Developer Paul McKee opened a three-bed facility at 1320 N. Jefferson in St. Louis in 2023 and used the name Homer G. Phillips Hospital.

Homer G. Phillips Hospital opened in 1937 following the crusading work led by local Black attorney Homer G. Phillips. It closed in 1979, with city officials disregarding the pleas of the Black community.

At its peak, the 600-bed facility was one of the largest hospitals in the country. It employed 1,000 Black skilled and semi-skilled health care workers, including hundreds of order-

n For a period of 20 years, 75% of all Black doctors in the country interned at Homer G. Phillips Hospital. By 1961, it had trained the largest number of Black doctors and nurses in the world.

lies, aides, janitors, and ambulance drivers. In addition, it provided a training facility for educating nurses and housing.

For a period of 20 years, 75% of all Black doctors in the country interned at Homer G. Phillips Hospital. By 1961, it had trained the largest number of Black doctors and nurses in the world.

Mckee used the name despite repeated requests not to from commu-

nity members, clergy, and elected officials

Homer G. Phillips Nurses Alumni Inc. filed a trademark infringement lawsuit and arguments on the case’s merit were heard on August 8, 2024.

She ruled that the lawsuit should be dismissed, and the appeals court has backed the decision.

“We are saddened that the Court of Appeals simply copied the original order, almost verbatim and ruled that there could not possibly be “confusion” between the Homer G. Phillips Nurses Alumni, Inc. trademark and the name on the 3-bed facility,” the Nurses Alumni Inc. said in a release.

“We are disappointed in the court’s understanding and ruling. The fact remains, the Homer G. Phillips Nurses Alumni, Inc. is the only one with the trademark for the Homer G. Phillips name

City forum focuses on business recovery

‘It’s about resilience’

By Alvin A. Reid St. Louis American

Aliyah Almasri literally had her world come crashing down upon her on May 16, 2025.

The owner of Pop’s Market and The Sweet Creamery at 1107 N. Kingshighway was inside her business when the historic F3 tornado collapsed her roof and left her injured.

In addition to the structure’s major damage, her car was also damaged, leaving her without transportation.

“The insurance on the building had lapsed just two weeks before,” Almasri said.

“The building owner and insurance company are fighting. I’m trying to find out what I can do.”

Almasri and dozens of other business owners and operators impacted by the devastating May 16 tornado attended the July 17 Business Recovery Resource Forum at St. Louis City Hall.

License Collector Mavis

Thompson, whose office hosted the event, said the forum was “more than

10th Ward Alderwoman Shameem Clark Hubbard (left) speaks with Aliyah Almasri, owner of Pop’s Market at 1107 N. Kingshighway, during the Business Recovery Resource Forum at St. Louis City Hall on July 17. The forum connected affected business owners with local, state, and federal agencies, which offered guidance and support for ongoing recovery efforts.

Little Bit Foundation names new vice presidents

The Little Bit Foundation has named Lathon Ferguson vice president of development and appointed Shelly Williams to the new role of vice president of impact and community engagement. Ferguson was serving as ASLAC/ St. Jude area executive director where he led fundraising efforts that resulted in $28 million annually for the mission of St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

Williams

He is a former University of Missouri-Columbia director of advancement-corporate relations and Midwest regional director for INROADS, Inc. Ferguson holds a Master of Arts degree in management and leadership from the George Herbert Walker School of Business at Webster University and a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science from the University of Missouri-St. Louis. Williams has served as executive director of Access Academies, director of strategic marketing and community engagement for LUME Institute/ University City Children’s Center, and national and local director of the American Graduate Initiative at NinePBS, for which she earned a MID-America Emmy.

A graduate of the University of Notre Dame, Williams has served as chair for the Black Alumni of Notre Dame board and as a member of the University of Notre Dame Alumni board.

Smith named Central Middle School principal

Loretta Smith has begun her tenure as principal of Central Middle School in the Parkway School District. She was an assistant principal in the St. Charles School District, where she supported curriculum, student interventions, and schoolwide programs. Before that, she spent seven years in Parkway as an English Language Arts teacher and department chair, leading professional development and mentoring new educators at South Middle School.

Kimberly Yancey of Chase Park Plaza honored

Kimberly Yancey, a front office manager at the Chase Park Plaza Royal Sonesta Hotel, recently received a Michelin Plate Award for her excellent customer service.

Kimberly Yancey

Yancey, who joined the hotel as an assistant controller in the accounting department, has been with the hotel since June 2014.

“There are amazing people who not only work here but visit here as well. You never know who you will encounter. You get to meet so many people and hear about their experiences. It’s super intriguing and makes working here more than worth it,” she said.

photo) to areid@stlamerican.com

LAWSUIT, B2

Members

of the Change The Name Coalition & Homer G. Phillips Nurses Alumni protested outside the three-bed facility at Jefferson and Cass on April 27, 2024. A St. Louis County judge’s

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis AMerican

Photo Alvin A. Reid / St. Louis American

Lathon Ferguson

Loretta Smith

Shelly

Lawsuit

Continued from B1 by trademark law.”

In its ruling, the Appeals Court stated “there is no competition between the parties.”

“According to the terms of its own registration, [Homer G. Phillips Nurses

Forum

Continued from B1

ance and support for ongoing recovery efforts.

Several business owners carried stacks of documentation, insurance paperwork, photos, property assessments, damage reports, and business records with them as they met with representatives of the city Assessor’s Office, Building Division, and St. Louis Development Corporation (SLDC).

Christina Garmendia, policy director for the office of Board of Alderman President Megan Green, said business owners can reach out directly to her with questions or needs for assistance.

She asked business owners, by a show of hands, the number of years they had been in operation and if they were city residents. The informal inquiry showed that most were city residents and that they had owned their businesses for more than five years.

The tornado destroyed or damaged more than 5,000 structures including businesses, homes, and churches.

Historic Black neighborhoods, The Greater Ville and Fountain Park were blasted by the storm, which caused an estimated $1.6 billion in damage,

Inc.] provides ‘association services,’ namely ‘promoting the interests of alumni nurses.’ Conversely, [McKee’s] organization is a hospital that provides healthcare to anyone in the community.

“There is no ‘degree of competition’ as no reasonable person in the community, especially in an emergency, would turn

to an alumni association to receive medical care. And, by the same token, no one would go to a hospital for membership to an alumni association.’

In its statement, the Nurses Association said, “We will move forward with greater determination to speak truth to power. We will move forward with determination to

serve the community. We will move forward with determination to make a difference in health care in every place where the name Homer G. Phillips stands for excellence, professionalism and caring.”

Homer G. Phillips Alumni, Inc., again stated that the facility’s closure was not a result of the lawsuit, adding that it is

among the highest figures for an individual tornado on record.

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) officials said the residential damage is the largest it had surveyed since the 2011 tornado in Joplin, Missouri The tornado claimed five lives, making it the first deadly tornado [in St. Louis] since 1959

Among the most heavily damaged areas of the city was its 10th Ward, which is represented by Alderwoman Shameem Clark Hubbard. “We must work col-

lectively to get resources out to the community,” she said while addressing forum attendees.

“We are ready to fight and advocate for our business people.” Hubbard added that business recovery is “case by case.”

“Wholeness is going to look different for everyone.”

11th Ward Alderwoman Laura Keys, whose home was damaged by the tornado, said she was in conversation with many businesses in her ward about expansion before the tornado struck.

only trying to halt future attempts to use the name.

“We filed a suit to have the name of Homer G. Phillips removed from the facility. We have no issue with the operation of a health-care facility at the Jefferson Ave. location.”

The facility closed less than a year after its opening. It failed to meet a deadline set by The

“One day after the storm, they took everything out of the freezer and used the food to feed people in the neighborhood. It reopened last week. They want to stay, and they want to expand.”

Other participating alderpersons were Michael Browning, 9th Ward; Sharon Tyus, 12th Ward; Pam Boyd, 13th Ward and Rasheen Aldridge, 14th Ward

Joining Thompson as co-hosts were Gregory F.X. Daly, collector of revenue; Michael Butler, recorder of deeds; Donna Baringer, comptroller; and Adam Layne, treasurer.

County Recovery Center closing

Since May 16, she said “For the most part things have been going well.”

“We have great businesses in our ward, many different kinds of businesses. As important as it is to retain our residents, we also want to keep our businesses and help them grow and thrive.”

Keys said the dedication of her ward’s business owners was demonstrated by Everybody Eats Café and Restaurant at 2812 N. Grand.

“They had only been open a few months when they were impacted by the tornado,” she said.

FEMA has announced that the two Disaster Recovery Centers in St. Louis County will be closing permanently at 7 p.m. Thursday, July 24. The three City Disaster Recovery Centers will remain open.

Union Tabernacle

M.B. Church 626 N. Newstead Ave. St. Louis, MO 63108

Monday-Friday: 8 a.m.7 p.m.

Saturday: 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Sunday: Closed

Urban League Entrepreneurship and Women’s Business Center

Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services to correct deficiencies –which included a blood supply shortage.

The state agency barred operations and the facility’s license was surrendered. Its employees, many of which had not been paid for their services for weeks, were abruptly dismissed.

4401 Natural Bridge Ave.

St. Louis, MO 63115

Monday-Friday: 8 a.m.7 p.m.

Saturday: 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Sunday: Closed

Sumner High School — Parking Lot 4248 Cottage Ave. St. Louis, MO 63113

Monday-Friday: 8 a.m.7 p.m.

Saturday: 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Sunday: Closed

Those impacted by the tornado can apply for FEMA assistance before going to the Disaster Recovery Center online at DisasterAssistance. gov or by calling (800) 621-3362.

The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is August 11, 2025.

If your home or personal property sustained damage and is not covered by insurance, FEMA may be able to provide funds to help pay for home repairs, a temporary place to live, and replace essential personal property.

At all locations, FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration are helping impacted residents with their disaster assistance applications, answering questions, and uploading required documents.

Wendy Todd of the St. Louis American contributed to this report.

Dozens of city business owners, operators and representatives attended the Business Recovery Resource Forum at St. Louis City Hall on July 17. Most of the representatives said during a show of hands that they had owned their respective businesses for more than five years.

Photo by Alvin A. Reid / St. Louis American

n “I need one there. I need it bad.”

– Texas A&M cornerback

Will Lee II, a St. Louis native, who lost at Mizzou with K-State

InSIdE SportS

With Earl Austin Jr.

STL shines throughout America on hoops weekend

It was an impressive weekend for the St. Louis basketball community.

On Saturday night, Napheesa Collier’s record-setting performance earned her Most Valuable Player honors at the WNBA All-Star Game in Indianapolis. The former Incarnate Word Academy All-American scored an All-Star Game record 36 points in leading Team Collier to a 151-131 victory over Team [Caitlin]

Clark.

Collier, a front runner for the WNBA MVP award, is the league’s top scorer and her Minnesota Lynx sport the WNBA’s best record.

Elite performance in Georgia

The lean Hornet

To cap off the weekend on Sunday night, 7-foot-1 St. Louisan Ryan Kalkbrenner helped lead the Charlotte Hornets to the championship of the NBA Summer League. The former Trinity Catholic standout had 15 points and nine rebounds in the Hornets’ 83-78 victory over the Sacramento Kings in the championship game.

Brad Beal Elite won the Nike EYBL Peach Jam 17U championship for the first time in the team’s history, defeating the New York Rens 75-55.

Forward Jamison White of East St. Louis had 16 points and eight rebounds. Guard Quentin Coleman of Principia had 14 points and seven rebounds while 6’11” forward Sheek Pearson, a Marquette commit from John Burroughs, added eight points and eight rebounds.

Tony Irons, a former coach at Vashon High who now guides Mineral Area College, is Beal Elite’s coach. Beal, the former Chaminade College Prep All-American, has signed with the Los Angeles Clippers after playing for the Washington Wizards and Phoenix Sun.

Earl’s World

Coach Dennis Gates is on a basketball recruiting roll at Mizzou. Last weekend, the Tigers got a commitment from 6’3” guard Jason Crowe Jr. of Inglewood, CA. Crowe is a 5-star prospect who is rated as the top point guard in the country. Gates and Mizzou have also received a commitment from Webster Groves standout Scottie Adkinson

The 6’3” Adkinson was the Gatorade Player of the Year in the state of Missouri as a sophomore after leading the Statesmen to a Class 5 state championship…A pair of rising seniors in the St. Louis area chose their respective collegiate basketball programs last week. Chaminade College Prep point guard Jonny Jordan committed to Omaha, while guard Kain McCaskill of Vashon committed to SIU-Edwardsville. Jordan is a 6’2” point guard who averaged 11 points a game in helping the Red Devils to a runner-up finish in the Class 6 state championship game. He also averaged

three assists and shot 42% from 3-point range. McCaskill is a 6’1” guard who started on Vashon’s Class 4 state championship team. He averaged eight points, four rebounds and three steals. He will be joining his brother Dehrio McClaskill at SIU-E… Standout Lindenwood running back Steve Hall has been selected as the Preseason Ohio Valley Conference/Big South Player of the Year. A graduate of MICDS, Hall rushed for 804 yards and

five touchdowns for the Lions last season while averaging a league-high 7.3 yards per carry. He was named the OVC/ Big South Offensive Freshman of the Year… The 5’9” Hall earned Conference Freshman of the Week honors four times last season, and was also selected the FCS National Freshman of the Week after he rushed for 259 yards and scored four touchdowns in a victory over Western Illinois… Our thoughts and prayers

SportS EyE

With Alvin A. Reid

go out to the friends and family of area girls track and field coach Mona Onyemelukwe, who recently passed away. Known to everyone as “Coach O,” she was most recently on the staff at Kirkwood High, where she coached the hurdlers. She was a standout track athlete at East St. Louis in the mid-1970’s for legendary coach Nino Fennoy. After a standout college career at Mississippi Valley State, she returned to Lincoln, where she spent

several years on Fennoy’s staff. She was a part of the Tigerettes’ dynasty which netted multiple state championships. Coach O came over to the Missouri side in 1990 where she became the head coach at Normandy High, where she spent the next 20 years. She had a remarkably successful run at Normandy, where she led the Vikings to three top four finishes in the state meet, along with numerous All-State performers.

WNBA players seek proper pay day

The most powerful performance of the WNBA All Star Game did not belong to Napheesa Collier, who starred at Incarnate Word and then Connecticut before becoming a dominant force with the Minnesota Lynx. Collier scored a WNBA All-Star Game record 36 points and collected nine rebounds in Team Collier’s 151-131 victory over Team Clark, which was led by Caitlin Clark. Her effort was topped, though, by the unity shown by All Stars who donned “Pay Us What You Owe Us” t-shirts during warmups. Fans that filled Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, home of Clark’s Indian Fever, supported the players’ cause by chanting “pay them, pay them.” According to Spotrac, a go-to website to learn salaries of pro athletes, Clark’s fever teammate Kelsey Mitchell is currently the highest-paid WNBA player with a base salary of $249,244.

Following Mitchell to round out the top 5 are Arike Ogunbowale of the Dallas Wings, and Jewell Loyd the Las Vegas Aces at $249,032. Kahleah Copper of the Phoenix Mercury nets $248,134, and Gabby Williams, Seattle Storm forward, collects $225,000. Neither Clark nor Collier is in the WNBA top 10 when it comes to base contracts. However, both have lucrative endorsement deals. Spotrac lists Clark’s four-year rookie salary at $84,514 annually, totaling $338,056. But she has earned a $28 million deal with Nike, and has endorsement contracts with Wilson Sporting Foods, Gatorade, and State Farm. Collier has received a “max-contract” extension from the Lynx that delivered a three-year deal worth $552,516 - an average of $184,172 annually. Her 2025 base salary is $214,284.

While it is not enclosed, her endorsement deal with

Jordan Brand likely tops her annual WNBA salary.

In July 2024, the WNBA announced an 11-year television package that includes ESPN, Amazon, and NBC. The $2.2 billion package begins with the 2026 season and will pay an average of $200 million a year. WNBA players and the

league are bargaining on a new contract that will hopefully deliver more money to those who perform in arenas throughout the country and create the product. Entering 2025, WNBA teams have a rather low salary cap of $1,507,100. Its franchises must spend at least $1,261,440 on

player compensation.

It is suddenly obvious why the players donned the shirts during All-Star Game weekend.

A negotiation session on Thursday, July 17, 2025, that was attended by 40 players was called “a missed opportunity,” by WNBA Players Association president Nneka Ogwumike

In an interview with ESPN, she said, “Based on what we saw and based on what we’re proposing, it’s two fundamentally different systems, and one that leans more towards a fixed percentage is what the league is responding to us with.”

“We want to have a better share where our salaries grow with the business, and not just a fixed percentage over time.”

WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert said the league wants to “significantly increase [player] salary and benefits while balancing with our owners their ability to have a path to profitability as well as continued investment.”

The Reid Roundup

Maybe the WNBA players aren’t as unified as first thought. All-Star Kelsey Plum said a meeting was held on Saturday morning before that night’s game and the t-shirt idea was approved. “Not to tattletale, but zero members of Team Clark were very present for that.”

While Caitlin Clark’s team might not have been “all in,” they did wear the shirts…Skylar Diggins, a Seattle Storm guard who played for St. Louisan Niele Ivey at Notre Dame, recorded the WNBA AllStar Game’s first triple double. She scored 15 points, with 11 rebounds and 15 assists…Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice pleaded guilty to several charges in connection with a highspeed accident that left at least two people injured last year. Rice, who fled the scene on foot, must serve 30 days in jail (over five years) and likely faces a lengthy NFL suspension…Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes is rated the NFL’s top quarterback by Associated Press writers in a preseason poll…

Earl Austin Jr.

Alvin A. Reid

Brad Beal Elite won the Nike EYBL Peach Jam 17U championship for the first time in the team’s history, defeating the New York Rens 75-55.

Courtesy photo

Angel Reese of the Chicago Sky and WNBA AllStars made a statement with their t-shirts during warmups last Saturday.

Photo courtesy of totalsports.com

STL Film Office helps bring $12M to regional economy

‘Ride or die’ filmed here

The St. Louis Film Office has supported more than 50 registered productions during the past year with combined budgets topping $12 million – work that has directly fueled local jobs, hotels, and production companies.

Passage of Missouri’s Motion Media Tax Incentive passed in 2023 has been essential, according to the Film Office, a subset of Explore St. Louis.

“The Motion Media Tax Incentive has given St. Louis a chance to prove itself on a national stage,” said Film Office manager Kelley Hiatt.

“These projects don’t just tell great stories, they create good-paying jobs, fill hotels and grow new creative businesses that keep talent here at home.”

The productions delivered approximately 1,500 days of filming in the region, created an estimated $6 million in local

wages, and filled more than 2,500 hotel room nights across St. Louis City and County.

A feature production also secured a short-term commercial office lease for $20,000.

Hiatt said Sony Pictures acquired Soul on Fire – the first feature film to use the new Missouri tax incentive –for a nationwide theatrical release, this fall.

The Film Office also convinced two feature films to choose St. Louis over Atlanta, one over Dallas and another over Los Angeles, “demonstrating the city’s growing appeal as a competitive, cost-effective production hub,” said Hiatt

Local productions over the past year have included a mix of feature films, television, and documentary work:

• ABC Signature’s What Would You Do filmed locally

• The Tribeca Film Festival screened Ride or Die, also filmed locally

• Independent features Greg’s Going to Rehab, Fairlight, Rough Draft and two upcoming feature length films reflect combined budgets topping $5 million

• The moving doc-

umentary Queen of the Base was produced, telling the story of a St. Charles resident who survived Taliban captivity, aided the U.S. military, and escaped Afghanistan on the final plane out in August 2021

• Public television’s Papa Ray’s Vintage Vinyl Road Show is in

production for Season 2

Beyond film crews, this wave of production has sparked local business growth supporting crew services and external funding resources, giving St. Louis a stronger competitive edge for future large-scale projects.

Hiatt said the Film Office expects to register at least 40 new projects in the coming year, with almost half already approved for the tax incentive.

The Productions are projected to add another 1,000 hotel room nights and more local jobs.

East St. Louis Metrobus Stop to receive ‘Transformation’

Citizens for Modern Transit, AARP in St. Louis and the St. Clair County Transit District have selected MetroBus Stop #13101 – located in the retail corridor of East St. Louis in front of Walgreens at 2510 State Street – for its next Transit Stop Transformation Project.

The site will be transformed into a colorful,

user-friendly space that cultivates community, promotes safety, and further increases ridership, according to Kimberly Cella, executive director of Citizens for Modern Transit.

Transit riders, area residents, elected officials and other stakeholders are encouraged to share the types of enhancements they would like to see at

the site by completing a short online survey at www.cmt-stl.org by August 30, 2025.

Public engagement will aid in the finalization of design. Construction will commence shortly thereafter with the project expected to be completed in Spring 2026.

“These projects are community-based initiatives,” said Cella.

“Local feedback is imperative to delivering a project that reflects the needs, wants and pulse of the community. We thank everyone in advance for their help.”

This will be the fifth Transit Stop Transformation Project in St. Clair County.

$750,000 has been invested to complete a total of seven transfor-

mations throughout the bi-state region, including the MetroBus Stop in Maplewood, the MetroBus Stop at 13th and Gravois Avenue in Soulard, the Emerson Park and 5th & Missouri Transit Centers in East St. Louis, the Fairview Heights Transit Center in Fairview Heights, the Belleville Transit Center in Belleville, and the North Hanley Transit Center in North St. Louis County. There has been more than $35 million in additional investment finalized or in the works around these sites, underscoring the value of placemaking and its lasting benefits for communities, Cella explained.

Photo by Taylor Marrie / St. Louis American

Filmmaker Josalynn Smith (center) filmed her movie Ride or Die, in St. Louis and helped bring more than $12 million xxx. Produced by Jamie Foxx’s company Foxxhole, Ride or Die premiered at the 2025 Tribeca Film Festival and was the first presentation of the 2025 St. Louis Film Festival.

Living It

Good vibes, great flow

Hip hop’s

diversity

was on display through Wiz Khalifa and company

By Zaria Mac St. Louis American

Wiz Khalifa, the Grammy nominated self-proclaimed captain of the Taylor Gang, brought heavy bass, bright lights, and a whole lot of smoke to the Hollywood Casino Amphitheater on Tuesday night. For the St. Louis stop, his Good Vibes Only tour starring Sean Paul, Da Baby, and other special guests was exactly what the tour’s name suggests.

Khalifa presents as an easygoing, laidback artist in interviews and on his social media channels. But his stage persona is quite the opposite. It’s as if he saves all of his energy for his performances. He was on brand with his STL return – and provided fans with a high powered show that put different spins on his catalogue of hip hop hits and club bangers.

He came with a full band that featured two guitar players who gave his songs new life. They strummed at lightning

A

look

speed –and played on opposite sides of the stage. The center was left empty for a solo mic stand, where Khalifa performed most of his set. He casually entered the stage under golden lights. He smoked a joint as he performed “What’s Hannnin,” a song from his new album “Kush +

n Wiz Khalifa was on brand with his STL return – and provided fans with a high powered show that put different spins on his catalogue of hip hop hits and club bangers.

Orange Juice 2.”

Though released in April, his fans were already familiar and rapped along in their shades of green. They only stopped to roll their own joints. He performed more music from his new album before taking it back with “We Dem Boyz.” The crowd went wild when he changed

the lyrics to say, “St. Louis girls call me sexy.” He then brought out his boys who danced with oversized inflatable joints before throwing them into the audience.

The show slowed down with “Mezmorized,” and Khalifa dipped back into his new album with tracks such as “5 Star” and “Crime Bud and Woman.” The pair of groovy, sensual songs feel like an afternoon cruise. Then he performed “Roll Up,” one of the songs that put him on the map – and made him beloved by cannabis connoisseurs around the world. As he performed the track, a screen above displayed a rotating globe with the continents covered in tall marijuana trees. Khalifa wasted no bars as he delivered a high level performance with no fluff, filler, or frills. His performance was so intense that he sweated through his shirt. He reemerged later in a leather vest that showed off his many tattoos.

His most impressive songs of the night included “The Thrill,” which

See Vibes, C3

back through the eyes of an ally

‘A Black History Tour of St. Louis’ closes 25th St. Louis Filmmakers Showcase

By Kenya Vaughn The St. Louis American

His return to the St. Louis Filmmakers Showcase in 2025 comes at the tenth anniversary of after he made his cinematic debut, but Tony West had no intentions of making another film.

However, he found the subject – and subject matter – for “A Black History Tour of St. Louis” so fascinating that he couldn’t refuse.

On Sunday, July 27, the 85-minute documentary will close out the 25th Annual St. Louis Filmmakers Showcase.

The film debuted at the Venice Under the Stars International Film Festival, where West was bestowed with an award for “Best Director — Feature Documentary.” It was also part of the Charlotte Black Film Festival.

“I’m just so excited for people to see it,” West said.

Soon after Archbishop Mitchell T. Rozanski arrived in the Archdiocese of

“They could never convince me to hate you.”

- Sexyy Red sharing her loyalty to Drake in an X post

Whoa Nelly

enjoying the inaugural National Thoroughbred League’s Nelly Cup on Saturday, July 19 at Fairmont Park Casino and Racing. The event introduced the region to its newest sports team, The St. Louis Nellies, which is here thanks to St. Louis rap star Nelly.

Inaugural NTL

race, and new local team made their debut

at Fairmont

By Zaria Mac The St. Louis American

The St. Louis Nellies, a new horse racing team, galloped into the region over the weekend. Their arrival came thanks to namesake and co-owner Grammy Awardwinning St. Louis artist Nelly. The team’s new name and home were unveiled this past Saturday during the inaugural National Thoroughbred League (NTL) Nelly Cup 2025, held at the Fairmount Park Casino and Racing – just across the bridge in Collinsville, Illinois.

The NTL Nelly Cup brought a new spin on horse racing – and spanned an entire afternoon filled with friendly competitions and fun for all ages. The afternoon kicked off with a few pre-tournament races where guests could learn more about the sport and develop a betting strategy. The stadium filled with excitement as these races went on as guests rose to their feet and cheered loudly –even if they didn’t bet.

Tony West’s award-winning documentary ‘A Black History

Louis’ will be the culminating film of the 25th

presented by

St. Louis from Baltimore, Father Gerald Kleba – known to most as Father Gerry –decided that history lesson was in order.

“He was like, ‘I’m a priest here – and I’ve been here over 50 years,’” West said.

“He said, ‘I know the city. You need to learn the city that you are living in. And I

of

am the one who can teach you.” What took place was a four-hour intensive lecture where a car became a portable classroom. Father Gerry – who is white – gave Archbishop Rozanski

See Film, C3

n The NTL Nelly Cup brought a new spin on horse racing –and spanned an entire afternoon filled with friendly competitions and fun for all ages.

Families and couples, young and old, brought out buckles and cowboy boots to the sunny Fairmount Park. Others wore linen and summer hats, which created a posh and western style scene. Some guests were even chosen from the audience to participate in a fashion show, where they showed off their summer hats and parcels as they walked the promenade.

There was even a kid’s race. Children from the audience bounced along on mini inflatable horses with “Amazing Aubrey” coming out on top. When asked about the key to her success, Aubry’s inspirational and wise response shocked the crowd.

“Stay focused and believe in yourself,” she sweetly replied in the post interview.

The tournament was hosted by Los Angeles broadcaster Peter Lurie – who expertly managed the excited crowd while introducing the racers. Though they came in sixth place overall, the St. Louis Nellies were the very first winning team of the Nelly Cup 2025. The victory created a historical moment for the team and its new owner. It began in a frenzied cluster as each horse fought for the lead. In the final

Photo by Taylor Marrie/St. Louis American

Rap star Wiz Khalifa, dancehall and pop star Sean Paul, DaBaby and others hit the stage at Hollywood Casino Amphitheater as part of the STL stop of the Good Vibes Tour on Tuesday, July 21.

Photo by Taylor Marrie/St. Louis American Tim Parker and Rachal Moore

Photo courtesy of Cinema St. Louis

Tour

St.

Annual St. Louis Filmmakers Showcase

Cinema St. Louis on Sunday, July 27.

CONCERTS

Fri., July 25, 7 p.m., Macy Gray: On How Life Is 25th Anniversary Tour, The Pageant, 6161 Delmar Blvd, Saint Louis, MO 63112. For more information, visit https:// www.thepageant.com.

Fri., Aug. 1, 8 p.m., (7 p.m. doors) Demola Live!, The Pageant, 6161 Delmar. For more information, visit www.thepageant.com.

Thurs., Aug 7, 6 p.m., Elle Varner, City Winery St. Louis, 3730 Foundry Way, St. Louis, MO 63110. Also showing at 9:30 p.m. For more information, visit https://citywinery.com.

Thurs., Aug. 7, 7:30 p.m. (6:30 p.m. doors) The Factory at The District welcomes K. Michelle, 17105 North Outer 40 Road Chesterfield, MO 63005. For more information, visit www.thefactorystl.com.

Fri., Aug. 8, 8 p.m. Jeezy with Color of Noize Orchestra, Stifel Theatre, 1400 Market St, St. Louis, MO 63103. For more information, visit https://gotickets.com.

Sun., Aug. 10 5 p.m. & 8:30 p.m. Big Daddy Kane, City Winery St. Louis, 3730 Foundry Way, St. Louis, MO 63110. For more information, visit https:// citywinery.com.

Mon., Aug. 18, The Factory welcomes Clipse, Factory at The District, 17105 North Outer 40 Road Chesterfield, MO 63005. For more information, visit www.thefactorystl.com.

SPECIAL EVENTS

Sat., July 26, 7:30 p.m. Laser Shows: Prince, St. Louis Science Center, 5050 Oakland

STL Sites & Sounds

Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110. Recurring event. For more information, visit https://www.slsc.org.

Sun., July 27, 5 p.m. I Don’t Give A Fashion, The Fabulous Fox, 527 North Grand Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63103. For more information, visit https://www. eventbrite.com.

Sat., Aug. 2, 5 p.m. The Pharrell Experience, St. Louis ArtWorks, 5959 Delmar Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63112. For more information, visit https://www. ticketleap.events.

COMEDY

Sat., July 26, 10 p.m. Josh Johnson: The Flowers Tour, The Pageant, 6161 Delmar Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63112. For more information, visit https://www. ticketmaster.com.

Fri., Aug. 1, 7 p.m. Special Event: Tommy Davidson, Helium Comedy Club, 1151 St. Louis Galleria St, St. Louis, MO 63117. Various showtimes available. For more information, visit https://st-louis. heliumcomedy.com.

Fri., Aug 1, 7:30 p.m. DL Hughley, City Winery St. Louis, 3730 Foundry Way, St. Louis, MO 63110. For more information, visit https://citywinery.com.

ST. LOUIS MUSIC SPOTLIGHT

Fri., July 25, 7:30 p.m. St. Louis Blues: A Century Of Legends And Legacy Ft. Rashad The Blues Kid, City Winery St. Louis, 3730 Foundry Way, St. Louis, MO 63110. For more information, visit https:// citywinery.com.

Sat., July 26, 8 p.m. (Doors at 7 p.m.) Chuck Flowers Birthday Celebration “Soul Songs For You,” Joe’s Café, 6014 Kingsbury Ave., St. Louis MO 63112.

Sat., July 26, 9 p.m. Let’s [Expletive] Dance, Atomic Lounge, 4140 Manchester Ave St. Louis, MO 63110. For tickets, visit www.ticketweb.com. Mon., Aug. 4, 7 p.m. Savy Jackson: Pride and Joy, Blue

Strawberry, 364 N. Boyle Ave, St. Louis, Missouri 63108. For more information, visit https:// bluestrawberrystl.com.

THEATRE

Through July 27, Ignite Theatre Company presents: Legally Blonde the Musical, Grandel 3610 Grandel Sq, St. Louis, MO 63108. For more information, visit https://www.metrotix.com.

Through Aug. 2, First Run

Theatre presents The Details, Kranzberg Arts Center’s Black Box Theater, 501 N Grand Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63103. For more information, visit https://firstruntheatre.org.

Through Aug. 10, Steel Magnolias a Tesseract Theatre Production, The Marcelle Theatre, 3310 Samuel Shepard Dr, St. Louis, MO 63103, For more information, visit https:// kranzbergartsfoundation.org.

Through Aug. 17, 7:30 p.m., Saint Louis Zoo and St. Louis Shakespeare Festival presents Romeo and Zooliet, St. Louis Zoo, for more information, visit stlzoo.org.

ART

Through July 27, Roaring: Art, Fashion and the Automobile in France, 1918–1939, Saint Louis Art Museum, 1 Fine Arts Dr, St. Louis, MO 63110. For more information, visit www.slam.org.

Through July 27, Veronica Ryan: Unruly Objects, Pulitzer Arts Foundation, 3716 Washington Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63108. For more information, visit https://pulitzerarts.org.

Through Aug. 10, Like Water, Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis, 3750 Washington Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63108. For more information https:// camstl.org/.

Through Sept. 27, The Gallery at The Kranzberg presents a new exhibition, Nyuso: A Celebration of African Artistry & Afrofuturism, by Kranzberg Arts Foundation Resident Artist Moraa Nyaribo. 501 N. Grand Blvd. For more information, visit kranzbergarts foundation.org

Photo by Lawrence Bryant

Rap veteran Jeezy will commemorate the 20th anniversary of his trap music classic ‘TM:101’ with a special show featuring the Color of Noize Orchestra at Stifel Theatre on Friday, August 8. See CONCERTS for more information.

featured smoke columns and shimmering lights to match the high energy of the song. He performed while his band rocked out behind him. The rockinspired arrangements gave the songs new life. Fans couldn’t help but dance and rap along – and jump up and down with their hands in the air.

Featured act Da Baby also brought the good vibes. He shocked the audience when he performed several songs from the crowd. The set was in stark contrast to his reputed mean streak with fans. Da Baby immersed himself fully within the audience. He even shook hands and passed the mic off to fans – who stammered over the lyrics in excitement.

He took the stage in red and black striped overalls, oversized to play on the “baby” look. His dancers twerked as he performed “SHAKE SUMN” and “Crybaby” in bedazzled shorts and cropped Cardinal’s t-shirts with a white swim top underneath. They told a story with each song they performed. There was even a theatrical fight scene choreographed for his debut single “Suge.”

Co-headliner Sean Paul brought the island vibes thanks to his charttopping dancehall hits that seamlessly crossed over into the mainstream. His backup dancers waved

Film

Continued from C1

an overview of Black St. Louis history as he unfolded the Catholic church’s role in the founding of St. Louis.

It was a history Father Gerry learned in his more than 20 years of leading parishes in North St. Louis, including Visitation Parish and St. Bridget of Erin. Archbishop Rozanski was astonished– and thought others could benefit from the tour. He suggested to Father Gerry that he extend the gesture to others. He did. The response was similar to Archbishop Rozanski’s feelings about it, even among St. Louis natives.

Father Gerry asked West – who he knew from participating in West’s debut film “The Safe Side of the Fence” – to take the tour and capture the experience on film.

“I think I’m about to make a little video for him and the church, because I respect him,” said West. “But then he sent me about 15 pages the night before and said, ‘This is what I’m going to be talking about.’”

The next morning, West gets into the car with Father Gerry.

“Going into the tour I think,’ ‘I’m a Black man. I’ve been in St. Louis my whole life. I work in television. I’m going to know pretty much everything that is going to be talked about,’” said West.

the Jamaican flag as they performed in hats that read “Dutty Rock.” Paul was adorned in an icy chain to match as he provided a blast from the past with tracks such as “Get Busy” and “Gimme the Light”. Fans sang along and slowly whined like the islanders of Paul’s native country. As he continued his performance, each song flowed directly into the next – including his features on songs like “Cheap Thrills,” “No Lie” and “Push to Start.” He followed up the featured segment with a series

A veteran videographer and University City native, West was introduced to filmmaking as a child by his older brother Marlon West – who grew up to be an award-winning animator, and Head of Effects, and VFX Supervisor at Walt Disney Feature Animation Studios.

Marlon taught Tony the basics of filmmaking when they were children and he assisted Marlon in his filmmaking endeavors. As a grown man, Father Gerry offered West additional knowledge about his people’s place in the city.

“Less than halfway through [the tour], and I’m already blown away,” West said. “We talked about all kinds of stuff I didn’t know.”

Before the tour ended, West knew that he had to make more than “a little video.” He wanted to recreate the experience and share it so Father Gerry’s Black history lesson could be shared with the masses of people that he couldn’t lead on personal tours individually.

“It was just so fascinating,” said West.

“Especially how he strategically discussed how racism can affect every aspect of life – housing, education, all of it.”

The documentary includes a discussion about the Supreme Court cases involving Dred Scott and Shelley vs. Kramer. It also discusses how the Catholic church was a trendsetter with the integration of their schools in St. Louis nearly a decade before

of throwback hits like “Temperature” and “I’m Still in Love With You.”

The crowd’s reaction to the songs displayed the timeless nature of his music.

The tour also featured DJ Bonics, Fedd the God, and Chevy Woods, who brought a party that set the tone for the good vibes that followed. They also demonstrated a true appreciation for the St. Louis cohort of the Taylor Gang that continued with the show’s headliners.

Nelly

Continued from C1

stretch, Sassy and Bold pushed forward to take the win.

The following race was won by the New York Knights. Their horse Busk took the lead early on. Others tried their best to keep up. Some came close to passing, however, they were no match for his speed.

Brown vs. The Board of Education.

For the film adaptation of the tour, West featured other individuals with a keen sense of Black St. Louis history – like Lynne Jackson, the great-great granddaughter of Dred and Harriet Scott and “The Last Children of Mill Creek” author Vivian Gibson.

“The hardest part of making this film was cutting things out,” West said. “Everything that everyone said was so important, and powerful.”

Father Gerry is the main subject, though.

“He lays it all out there,” West said. “And I’m just gonna keep it real – Father Gerry being a white person talking about racism might be heard by different ears than if it was me talking about racism.”

Father Gerry also proves the point West hopes is the major takeaway from “Black History Tour of St. Louis.”

“You can be an ally in this fight for equality, no matter what race you are,” West said. “And you want to be on the correct side of history.”

Tony West’s “A Black History Tour of St. Louis” will screen at 3 p.m. on Sunday, July 27th at The High Pointe Theatre (1005 McCausland Avenue) as part of the 25th Annual St. Louis Filmmakers Showcase. To purchase tickets, or for a full schedule of programming, visit www.cinemastlouis.org.

The crowd began to yell and even galloped along as Busk raced past the finish line. The final race was won by Lucky Boss – who ran for the San Francisco Unicorns. The race began with no clear winner as the horses ran in a tight group. The crowd erupted as Lucky Boss shot out from the pack and maintained the lead around the bends. Some grunted angrily as he cruised past the finish line.

The Nelly Cup gave guests a chance to try their luck while participating in a historical moment in St. Louis horse racing. The event has the potential to become a cultural hallmark – where diverse communities are brought together for a fun afternoon of chance and excitement.

For more information about the National Thoroughbred League, visit https://ntl.racing.

Photo by Taylor Marrie/St. Louis American

Rapper Da Baby immersed himself fully within the audience. He even shook hands and passed the mic off to fans – who stammered over the lyrics in excitement.

Photo by Taylor Marrie/St. Louis American

The NTL Nelly Cup was held at Fairmount Park on July 19th, 2025.

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT/ OFFICE MANAGER

Great Rivers Greenway is hiring an Executive Assistant/Office Manager. Go www.greatrivto ersgreenway.org/ careers/ submit by August 13, 2025.

SOLICITING BID

Reinhardt Construction LLC is Soliciting Bids from MBE/WBE/DBE/ Veteran/SDVE for the following: CP2400920 Medical Science Building 7th Floor East Renovation

Contact: Mike Murray ; mikem@ reinhardtconstructionllc. com

Phone: 573-682-5505

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

The St. Louis Economic Development Partnership (“SLEDP”) issues this Request for Qualifications from professional services firms to support SLEDP’s Accounting Department with special projects as needed. A copy of the RFQ is available at https://stlpartnership.com/ rfp-rfq/. SLEDP will accept proposals on a rolling basis. The initial review of qualifications will begin on Friday, August 15, 2025

St. Louis Economic Development Partnership Equal Opportunity Employer

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District Requests for Quotes, Bids and Proposals are posted online for public download. Please navigate to www.msdprojectclear.org > Doing Business With Us > View Bid Opportunities

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

REQUEST FOR BIDS

Hazelwood School District is seeking bids for installing a new concrete pad for a future Greenhouse at Hazelwood Central High School. A mandatory pre-bid meeting will take place on Tuesday, July 29, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. Proposals are due by August 5, 2025 at 10:00 am via the district’s online submission portal. For access to bid specifications, please visit the district’s online portal accessible at https://www. bidnetdirect.com/private/ buyer/solicitations?target= clear or contact the Director of Purchasing and Supplier Diversity at 314-953-5050. Questions regarding proposals or the process must be submitted through the online portal. The Hazelwood School District reserves the right to reject any or all proposals.

SEALED BIDS

SOLICITING BIDS

Great Rivers Greenway in partnership with St. Louis County Department of Parks and Recreation are soliciting bids for Gravois Greenway Bridge Repair and Replacements Projects. Go to www.greatriv ersgreenway.org/bids/ submit by August 20, 2025.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

REDEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY

The Land Clearance for Redevelopment Authority of the County of St. Louis (“LCRA”) requests proposals to purchase and redevelop LCRA-owned property located in the Lulu Heights neighborhood in the City of Wellston, St. Louis County, Missouri 63133. The property contains approximately 5.08 acres, consisting of more than 40 lots. Further information, including the complete RFP and informational packet, is available at https://stlpart nership.com/rfp-rfq/ or upon request at LCRA’s offices. Proposals must be received no later than 3 PM CT on Friday, August 29, 2025.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

REDEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY

The St. Louis County Port Authority (“Port”) requests proposals to purchase and redevelop real property located at 6900, 7100, and 7120 North Market Street & 6823 and 6825 St. Charles Rock Road in the cities of Pagedale and Wellston, St. Louis County, Missouri 63133. The property contains approximately 20 acres. Further information, including the complete RFP and informational packet, is available at https://stlpartnership.com/ rfp-rfq/. Proposals must be received no later than 3 PM CT on Friday, August 29, 2025.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

Parking Operator On the Improved Wharf of the City of Saint Louis, MO 63102

The City of St. Louis Port Authority Will Receive Sealed Proposals on 8/25/2025. For more Info. Visit https://www.stlouis-mo. gov/government/ departments/sldc /procurement/index.cfm

INVITATION TO BID

McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. requests bids from qualified contractors for:

Phelps Health Emergency Department Addition

Bid Package 2 – Shell & Interior Build-out

which includes the following scopes of work: Earth Retention System, Concrete/ Flatwork, Structural Steel, Fireproofing, Waterproofing, Masonry, Metal Panel, Glazing, Roofing, Drywall, Ceilings, General Works, Flooring, Painting, Pneumatic Tube, Elevators, Asphalt Paving

The new addition is approximately 80,000 SF and includes a fully fit-out Emergency Department, shelled spaces and support areas.

BID DATE: August 12 by 2:00 PM CDT

Bid Documents will be available by 7/21/25. All contractors interested in this project must contact Mary Peterein via email at: mpeterein@mccarthy.com

McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. is proud to be an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. 12851 Manchester Road | St. Louis, MO 63131

Bids for New Premium 63 Site Loop Campground at St. Francois State Park, Project No. X2317-01, will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, August 28, 2025. The State of Missouri, OA-FMDC, hereby notifies all bidders that it will affirmatively ensure that in any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, businesses owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, religion, creed, sex, age, ancestry or national origin in consideration for an award. Federal Land and Water Conservation Funds are being used in this project, and all relevant federal, state and local requirements apply. Project information available at: http://oa.mo.gov/ facilities

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS

Sealed bids for the Castle Point Improvements project, St. Louis County Project No. CR-1847, will be received electronically thru the County’s Vendor Self Service portal at https:// stlouiscountymovendors.munisselfservice.com/Vendors/default.aspx, until 2:00 PM on August 13, 2025

Plans and specifications will be available on July 14, 2025, from the St. Louis County Web Site (www. stlouiscounty mo.gov) or by contacting Cross Rhodes Print & Technologies, 2731 South Jefferson Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63118 (314) 678-0087.

ACTING DIRECTOR OF PROCUREMENT AND ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES ST. LOUIS COUNTY

BID NOTICE

Bids for installation of city street lighting in the Grand Center Arts District. ‘Grand Center Arts District Lighting Upgrades –Project number 165000.000’. Bids will be received on August 6th, 2025, until 3:30pm CST. Full project information package available by contacting McClure Engineering, Steve Dietiker. 314-806-0236 or https://www. grandcenterinc.org/ or https://mcclureeng.com/

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

The Heartland Regional Investment Fund, LLC issues this Request for Proposals to retain a firm or firms to assist with the preparation and filing of its 2025 New Market Tax Credit Application. A copy of the RFP is available at https://stl partnership.com/rfp-rfq/ Proposals must be received no later than 3:00 PM on Friday, August 29, 2025.

St. Louis Economic Development Partnership Equal Opportunity Employer

SEALED BIDS

Bids for Interior Renovation, Project No. U1503-01 will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, 8/12/25. Project information available at: http://oa.mo. gov/facilities

SEALED BIDS

Bids for Replace Multiple Electronic Systems at George Washington Carver State Office Building, Project No. O2427-01, will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, August 19, 2025. Project information available at: http://oa.mo. gov/facilities