STL trio finds new teams on NBA Draft Night
St. LouiS AmericAn
Science Camp at Little Creek Nature Area
By Ashley Winters
St. Louis American
School’s out for summer, but learning hasn’t stopped at Little Creek Nature Area, a program supported by the St. Louis American Foundation (SLAF). The 97-acre outdoor classroom located in North St. Louis County is drawing elementary and middle school students from across the region for a hands-on STEM exploration.
Hiking trails, restored prairies, a pond ecosystem, and a Nature Explore classroom offer young learners a chance to connect with science in the wild. Savannah Channel, 17, a mentor and student at MICDS, leads lessons on plant and animal survival. One activity had students design butterflies with camouflage patterns to blend into the classroom environment before challenging each other to spot the hidden butterflies, mimicking how creatures survive in the wild. “The kids come here to learn more about science to have a better idea of what they are learning in school,” Channel said.
By Alvin A. Reid St. Louis American
The St. Louis American garnered three first-place awards and several other recognitions in the 2025 NNPA Messenger Awards competition. The award winners were announced on Thursday June 29, 2025 during the NNPA national conference in Savannah, Georgia.
1st place for Layout and Design Broadsheet – Robert L.Vann Award
“August 22-28 edition featuring Jasmine Crockett, Democratic National Convention and local coverage.” Mike Terhaar, Art Director and Melvin Moore, Graphic Designer 1st place for Video Campaign Award “37th Annual Salute to Education Recap” Salute To Excellence in Education videos honoring the following: Lifetime Achiever Jackie Joyner-Kersee (Video by Dawn Suggs), Stellar Performer Ellicia Lanier, SEMO Counselor of The Year Kimberly Merrell and Excellence in Education Awardees (Videos by James Lebine and Raven Whitener).
By Kenya Vaughn
The
There was a brief, but touching moment that was repeated during the Tornado Relief Concert held Sunday afternoon at The Fabulous Fox. Stéphane Denève, The Joseph and Emily Rauh Pulitzer Music Director for the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra,
director Kevin McBeth shared conductor duties on Sunday afternoon. As they took turns, a hug or handshake would take place before the other stepped into the conductor’s stand. It was as if they were a tag team enthusiastically sending the other off with encouragement to get the job done.
The “pay what you can” concert raised more than $200,000 and counting. Organizations, charitable foundations and individuals worked together to
By Alvin A. Reid St. Louis American
The fate of millions of Americans’ Medicaid enrollment, including more than 200,000 in Missouri, was being debated Wednesday in the House of Representatives.
The Senate passed its version of the Budget Reconciliation Bill on Tuesday, and many medical experts and social agency representatives agree that there would be a cataclysmic impact on American healthcare if the House gives its approval.
Sen. Josh Hawley, who suggested he could not approve the Senate version of the bill, did finally vote with his fellow GOP senators to approve the bill.
Sen. Eric Schmitt also voted yes, not surprisingly as he stood with President Trump in support of the bill that guts Medicaid, SNAP benefits, while slicing taxes for the wealthy.
The Senate version passed 51-50. Vice President J.D. Vance cast the deciding vote.
“Josh Hawley & Eric Schmitt just voted to sell out the people of Missouri,” said Missouri Democratic Party Chair Russ Carnahan.
St. Louis American
Gospel veteran BeBe Winans performed alongside the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, The St. Louis Symphony Chorus and the IN UNISON Chorus for a special tornado relief benefit Sunday, June 29 at The Fox. All proceeds from the “pay what you can” concert benefited the efforts of The Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis and their support of those affected by the devastating tornado.
Boeing manufacturing engineer Travion Crutcher explains helicopter design and testing at The St. Louis American’s Summer Science Academy.
Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American
Photo by Cathy Sewell / The St. Louis American
Kerry Carter
Walter Scott of The Whispers passes at 81
Walter C. Scott Jr., who alongside his identical twin brother Wallace “Scotty” Scott founded veteran R&B group The Whispers, passed away on Thursday, June 26. He was 81.
According to a statement obtained by The Hollywood Reporter, Scott’s passing came after a six-month battle with cancer.
albums, The Whispers and Love Is Where You Find It, hit No. 1. They also landed five gold and two platinum albums.
Accuser drops civil suit against Chris Brown
The group is best known for hits such as “And the Beat Goes On,” “Rock Steady” (which hit No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100), “It’s a Love Thing,” “Lady, “Love is Where You Find It” and “Love at Its Best.”
Born in Fort Worth, Texas, in 1944, Scott later moved to Los Angeles. He and Wallace formed The Whispers in 1963 with members Nicholas Caldwell, Marcus Hutson and Gordy Harmon Walter was then drafted to serve in the Vietnam War, but he returned to The Whispers in 1969.
They earned 15 top-10 R&B singles and two of the eight top-10 R&B
Last month, Chris Brown was arrested in London on charges of grievous bodily harm after a music producer accused Chris of hitting him in the head with a tequila bottle during a 2023 bar brawl.
The music producer who accused Chris Brown of beat ing him with the bottle and then stomping on him at a London nightclub has dropped his lawsuit against the singer.
Billboard.com first reported the news. The music news outlet cited Los Angeles court documents in which Amadou “Abe” Diaw requested on Friday that his suit against Brown be dismissed with prejudice, meaning the case cannot be filed again in court. A settle ment between the two parties has not
yet been confirmed. Brown was accused of attacking Diaw in February 2023, which resulted in a hospitalization. He later filed a $16 million lawsuit related to the attack. Brown pleaded not guilty to a charge of grievous bodily harm with intent.
Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs found guilty on two counts in sex trafficking
trial
Of the five counts against him, Sean “Diddy” Combs was acquitted of three charges and convicted of two charges in the sex trafficking and running a criminal enterprise criminal case that began with his arrest last
Combs was found guilty of felony prostitution related offenses involving former girlfriends
Cassandra Cassie” Ventura and “Jane.”
The foreperson confirmed that the verdict reached was unanimous. He was convicted of transporting individuals – his girlfriends and male sex workers – to engage in sexual encounters. The convictions were a felony violation of the federal Mann Act. Combs could spend up to 10 years in prison as a result. Information from The New York Post and The Associated Press contributed to this report. Ventura’s lawyer released a statement shortly after the verdicts were read.
“This entire criminal process started when our client Cassie Ventura had the courage to file her civil complaint in November 2023,” said Douglas H Wigdor.
Sean “Diddy” Combs
He was found not guilty of the more serious charges of running a criminal enterprise and two counts of sex trafficking.
“Although the jury did not find Combs guilty of sex trafficking Cassie beyond a reasonable doubt, she paved the way for a jury to find him guilty of transportation to engage in prostitution. By coming forward with her experience, Cassie has left an indelible mark on both the entertainment industry and the fight for justice.”
Sources: Billboard.com, NYtimes. com, NYpost.com, TMZ.com
Chris Brown
Walter Scott
Clayton’s Remembrance Park honors Black authors
“At its peak in the 1940s, Clayton was home to nearly 500 Black residents, most of whom lived in a close-knit neighborhood between Hanley and Brentwood”
By Ashley Winters
The St. Louis American
City leaders in Clayton
know it’s important to keep the memories of its forgotten Black heroes alive. That’s why they invested heavily in recent renovations to Remembrance Park so that the invaluable contributions Black residents made throughout the years will never be forgotten.
Remembrance Park, which showcases a living green wall, a water feature, and community programs, honors the contributions to Clayton from the Black community and other communities whose histories have been omitted from the city’s historical narrative.
The City of Clayton wants to maintain an honest dialogue about its history and is determined to make sure it is never erased. The preservation of spaces and historical markers is a surefire way to make that happen. These efforts are important to understanding the complete history and promoting a more inclusive narrative for future generations.
Like many cities and towns across the country, Clayton’s history includes
the overlooked contributions of Black residents who shaped the community over generations.
Figures such as Richard Hudlin, who became Clayton’s first Black postmaster in 1897, and John O’Gorman, who operated a local hardware store later managed by Frank Human, reflect a legacy of Black leadership and entrepreneurship. At its peak in the 1940s, Clayton was home to nearly 500 Black residents, most of whom lived in a close-knit neighborhood between Hanley and Brentwood.
This vibrant community was highlighted by families that attended a local church and sent their children to an all-Black elementary school. But by the 1950s and 1960s, that community began to disappear. In 1952, residential areas where Black families lived were rezoned for commercial use and gradually cleared to make way for Clayton’s business district. That process led to the displacement of residents and the erasure of much of the city’s Black history. Just last year, a historical marker was installed downtown to begin acknowledging this lost chapter.
narrative.
“I hope that these plaques serve as a starting point for stories that parents tell children or friends to discuss together. Or when a visitor simply learns by coming to the park,” McAndrew said. Originally planned for 2018, the park project faced uncertainty when pandemic-related budget constraints forced the City to prioritize essential services. The Clayton Community Foundation (CCF), the official nonprofit partner of Clayton, took on the project and brought the concept to fruition. Funding was supported by the Opus Foundation, private CCF donors, grants, and a Municipal Park Grant Commission award.
According to the mayor, the park cost $970,220 to build, with the City paying for about one-third of that cost ($392,220).
The Clayton Community Foundation (CCF) provided $123,000 in donations, and Clayton received $455,000 in municipal park grants.
With the completion of a major project by the Clayton Community Foundation, downtown Clayton offers a new public space dedicated to literacy, learning, and inclusion. Located next to the Mid-County Library, the newly-opened park honors diverse authors and invites visitors to connect,
read, and reflect. The site features free Wi-Fi and will host free weekly chess lessons led by the St. Louis Chess Club, reinforcing the area’s role as a dynamic hub for community engagement and lifelong learning.
“There is a sense of peace and calm in this small pocket park,”
Clayton Mayor Bridget McAndrew said.
Plaques honoring historically diverse figures from Clayton’s past are set to be installed in the coming months. The goal is to spark conversation, reflection, and storytelling, while adding depth and inclusivity to the community’s shared historical
“Our most recent comprehensive planning effort showed that our residents tremendously value our park spaces,” McAndrew said. “Remembrance Park will serve as a wonderful place. I truly hope that the park will serve our residents and visitors for many generations to come.”
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.
Reserve your slot online in under two minutes.
bjc.org/Youth-Physicals
Photo courtesy of Clayton Parks
Clayton Mayor Bridget McAndrew recently snipped the ribbon during the opening ceremony for Remembrance Park, which honors Black authors. Joining the mayor were (left) Colleen Waterman, Clayton Community Foundation president, and Toni Siering, Clayton Parks director.
Guest Editorial Commentary
On July 4, make sure our voice still matters
By Maxine Bryant
Throughout history, the Black voice has never been silent.
It has been a voice that cried out against injustice, a voice that demanded to be heard.
Our voice has survived slavery, Jim Crow, segregation, the war on drugs, mass incarceration and systemic erasure — and still, it rises.
From Olaudah Equiano, who chronicled the brutality of slavery in the 18th century, to Marcus Garvey, who galvanized movements for Pan-Africanism and Black nationalism in the 19th century, our ancestors used their words as weapons and shields.
In the 20th century, the Black voice rang out from pulpits, picket lines, and protest songs. Marvin Gaye asked us, “What’s Going On?” while Gil ScottHeron reminded us that “The Revolution Will Not Be Televised.” Each generation found its own way to make noise, to speak truth and to demand change.
As the U.S. prepares to celebrate another July 4th, we must ask: what does this day mean for Black America in 2025?
centuries of systemic programming, keeps us from uniting against our shared oppressors.
I am compelled to use my voice to lift three powerful observations Douglass made in his 1875 speech that still demand our attention in 2025: self-hatred, the beggar mentality and the need for a strong Black press.
First, Douglass lamented how slavery had taught Black people to admire whiteness and despise themselves. That legacy of self-hatred did not die with emancipation — it mutated. It lives on today in the form of colorism, violence in our own communities, and a media landscape that often uplifts our trauma but not our brilliance.
For me, the voice that continues to challenge us with that question is Frederick Douglass. On July 5, 1852, Douglass stood boldface before an all-white crowd and asked, “What, to the American slave, is your Fourth of July?”
Ten years later, on July 4, 1862 in the middle of the Civil War, he spoke again. This time he addressed a mixed audience in New York and shared truth — that the Civil War was about slavery — not just states’ rights as it was often portrayed.
In 1875, Douglass was invited to speak on July 5 to a mostly Black audience in Washington, D.C. This was during the Reconstruction period, and Black people were trying to rebuild their lives from among the ashes of slavery.
Here is a disturbing truth: many of the issues Douglass confronted 150 years ago still haunt us today. The forces that sought to erase us from this country are still working overtime — in policy, in media, in classrooms and in law. Just like Douglass warned in 1875, there are still efforts to divide us, distract us and diminish us. Internal disunity, driven by
Yes, systemic racism is real. But until we unlearn the lie that we are inferior, we will struggle to love ourselves, and if we cannot love ourselves, we will continue to harm each other. Self-love isn’t soft — it’s radical. It’s revolutionary. Second, Douglass warned us against waiting for white benevolence. He was clear: liberation cannot be handed to us; it must be built by us. Too often, we’ve operated with a “renter” mindset — waiting for change and repair to come from someone else’s hand, someone else’s table. But we are not renters of this land, of our future or of our liberation. We must be builders. We must invest in ourselves, our communities, our businesses and our youth. We must stop begging for permission to matter.
Third, Douglass emphasized the need for a strong, independent Black press — a voice to speak for us and to us. That was lacking in his day. Today, we are blessed with outlets which continue the work of telling our stories, lifting our truth and holding power accountable. But it is up to us to support and protect these institutions.
Let July 4, 2025, be a rallying cry. When we speak, we shift the culture. When we unify, we reshape the future. And when we love ourselves, there is nothing we cannot overcome.
Our voice mattered throughout history. It still matters. And it always will.
Maxine Bryant, Ph.D., is the founder of GriotSpeaks and an author. This commentary was originally published by the Indianapolis Recorder
B. Young (1894-1993)
(1901-1988)
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Sweets (1909-2006) • Editor
STAFF
Longing for a state, country I can believe in
By Janice Ellis
As we begin the 4th of July weekend, this column is a major departure from how I have written columns for nearly four decades.
It is personal.
I have avoided using “I’ and have endeavored to remain objective and impersonal as I have addressed and analyzed myriad social, educational and political issues across race, age, gender and socioeconomic status.
Maybe the “I” in this column is a “collective I” that tugs.
I have a hunch that many of my fellow Missourians and Americans may be feeling as I do as we live through unprecedented, tumultuous, and unsettling political times.
What are you longing for?
I long for a state and country where:
• The fundamental tenets, rules, procedures and laws that have governed our democratic republic still hold true and still mean something as we function in the public square and in our everyday lives.
the good, the bad and the ugly of life in America, I have always remained hopeful and refused to give up on believing in the best of our collective humanity. When I watch DEI programs being dismantled across every aspect of American life as if the playing field is equal, I still believe in fairness and decency in spite of my experiences throughout my career — not getting jobs I was qualified for, sometimes overly qualified for, not able to buy a house in a neighborhood I could afford, on and on.
Despite those experiences, I refused to be bitter, paint the situation or future prospects with a broad brush, or feel that I would always be victimized by racism and sexism.
• Our institutions and their histories still have meaning, value, collective power and influence.
• There is real meaning and we still value representative government, where those elected really believe in respecting and fighting for the issues and concerns of those who voted for them, sent them to do the people’s bidding.
• The behaviors of the leadership in our state and nation — our governor, the legislature, our president, the halls of Congress — are shining examples to be emulated, duplicated, and cheered on.
• There is hope and a positive outlook about what each of us can achieve if we work hard enough.
Some may consider those longings naive or idealistic.
I do not.
As a Black woman, born and raised on a small farm in Mississippi, and who has lived and or witnessed first-hand
If I am a victim, it is in my belief that hope for a better humanity reigns eternal.
But today and for some time, I must admit, I am finding it difficult to not become pessimistic, to not throw up my hands and say, “What’s the use?
We see examples and reminders every day that we are allowing debased values and goals to kill the progress we have made for over two centuries.
Who are the few representatives in Jefferson City and Washington who will assume and use the power invested in them to stand up and stop the negative and destructive trajectory — of us versus them — that the state and nation is on?
No matter where we hail from, no matter our circumstances of birth, we have shared experiences that should bind us, not divide us.
Like many of you, I have voted for both Democrats and Republicans. I vote for the person and what they stand for. I am both conservative and liberal — and moderate — depending on the issue. When it comes to what is best for Missouri and America, it is about building bridges that we can all walk across to achieve the best good for the greatest number. Our collective future is dependent on it.
Janice Ellis is a columnist for the Missouri Independent
Commentary
Senate votes to let Trump go unchecked
By Marc Morial
With an intimidated Congressional majority unwilling to stand up to even the most egregious actions by the Trump administration, it falls to the courts to protect the rights of vulnerable Americans.
A provision in the “Big Ugly Bill” — the budget reconciliation bill passed by the Senate on Tuesday — would make that nearly impossible.
The provision requires anyone suing the federal government for a violation of their rights to post enormous bonds to cover any potential costs to the government before a court could issue an order that would stop that violation.
Only billionaires and massive corporations would have the means to seek justice. The right to petition the Government for a redress of grievances, enshrined in the First Amendment, would be denied to ordinary Americans.
Thune has promised not to eliminate the filibuster; on the other, he has been known to ignore the parliamentarian’s ruling.
According to Igor Bobic of HuffPost, “Republicans blocked the parliamentarian from ruling on the matter to avoid having to overrule her likely adverse opinion on the Senate floor. Senate GOP leaders repeatedly vowed that they would never do so, and they probably wouldn’t have the votes to do it anyway.”
“What they did instead on Monday was vote to support Graham’s authority as chairman of the Budget committee to use ‘current policy’ in reconciliation.”
The good news was that the Senate parliamentarian has determined that the provision violates the so-called “Byrd Rule,” which restricts the content of reconciliation legislation. The reconciliation process protects the Big Ugly Bill from a filibuster, and the majority does not have the 60 votes required to avoid one.
However, Republicans refused to allow a bipartisan meeting specifically on the use of “current policy.” They maintained that the chairman of the Senate Budget Committee, Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), has the sole authority to determine which accounting method can be used to pass legislation.
“Chair Graham has set that we will be using current policy baseline, therefore, no [reconciliation] rules are violated as Dems have suggested,” a spokesperson for Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) told HuffPost.
“I’m not the first chairman to change the baseline for different reasons,” Graham said Sunday.
“Democrats were furious and said that Republicans were going “nuclear” by blowing up the filibuster rules. Many Senate Democrats have already come out in support of eliminating the filibuster outright, and the GOP’s latest moves are likely to evoke retaliation and hasten its demise in the coming years.”
The National Urban League is among the scores of individuals and organizations who have filed at least 300 lawsuits against the Trump administration. Federal courts have at least temporarily blocked the administration’s actions at least 198 times. But the courts would be powerless to stop even blatantly violations of the Constitution unless the plaintiffs are outrageously wealthy.
Most of us learned in elementary school about the separation of powers. The legislative branch makes the laws. The executive branch enforces the laws. The judicial branch interprets the laws. But the Trump administration wants all these powers for itself. The Senate decided to not abode by the oath each Senator has sworn and defend the American people from a would-be dictatorship.
Marc Morial is president and CEO of the National Urban league
Guest Columnist Maxine Bryant
Guest Columnist Janice Ellis
Columnist
Marc Morial
The Little Bit Foundation partnered with FIRST Inspires and the Riverview Gardens School District to host an inaugural district-wide LEGO League challenge at Westview Middle School in May. Little Bit is teaming with Together Credit Union to host a month-long school supply donation drive at the credit union’s 14 branches.
Together, every Little Bit helps young students
St. Louis American
Together Credit Union is partnering with The Little Bit Foundation to host a Back to School Donation Drive throughout July at its 14 branch locations in the Greater St. Louis Metropolitan area.
Founded in 2001, The Little Bit Foundation works to remove barriers to learning for under-resourced students through partnerships and programs that serve the needs of young learners.
It provides access to essential services and educational experiences while serving 17,000 students in 54 schools in the region.
The coming school year will be more of a challenge because students have been impacted by the May 16 tornado. Currently, over 90% of the students the foundation serves are living at or below the federal poverty line.
To contribute to the Back-to-School Donation Drive benefiting The Little Bit Foundation, community members are asked to drop off new school supplies
in the collection bins located at any
Together Credit Union branch. To find a convenient branch, please visit https:// www.togethercu.org/home/locations.
The most requested items for Back-toSchool Donation Drive include:
• Backpacks
• Colored Pencils (10-12 pack)
• Markers (10-12 pack)
• Folders (with pockets)
• Binders (1-inch)
• Single Subject Notebooks (wideruled)
• Loose leaf paper (wide ruled, 150 sheet)
• Pencil cases (zipper pouch, no hard plastic)
Additional collection items can be found online at https:// thelittlebitfoundation.org/item-donationsdrives/
For more information regarding the Back To School Donation Drive, please contact Together Credit Union’s Community Impact Team by emailing communityoutreach@togethercu.org
Immigrants play essential role in America
By Julianne Malveaux
Douglas Turner Ward (1930-2021) wrote a searing play, “Days of Absence,” that depicted the way life might be like in a small Southern town where all of the Black people disappeared.
Predictably, white people could not boil water, feed their children, nor manage their own feeding. The fictional town just about falls apart in the absence of the Black labor backbone. The play ends when, the next day, one of the missing Black folks reappears and feigns ignorance about the disappearance.
“Days of Absence” won both a Drama Desk Award in 1965 and a Tony Award in 1966. It captured the notice of the Ford Foundation; they awarded Douglas Turner Ward a grant that he used to establish the Negro Ensemble Company.
The sardonic play, with no definitive conclusion, is a metaphor for those who are invisible, the people who serve our food, clean our homes, run the buses and trains, and facilitate lives of people who are seemingly too important to notice them.
Where is the 21st-century Douglas Turner Ward, the playwright or author who will write about the days of absence that immigrant workers might stage to underline their essential importance in our economy?
In agriculture and hospitality, and in science and medicine, as well as in other fields, we will be the net losers if the 47th president’s diabolical scheme to deport 3,000 people a day is successful. If ICE gets to its quota and works every day, it means that we will lose more than a million people a year.
They are housekeepers and construction workers, childcare and health care workers. About one in five workers is foreign born, and about a quarter of those are likely undocumented. Some of these undocumented people have been here for years, making lives for themselves and their families.
Others have come recently. Relatively few are receiving government service or assistance. Most live under the radar, paying taxes and receiving no benefits.
What would we do without immigrants, documented or undocumented?
Which construction projects would slow? Which hotels would experience labor shortages because housekeepers and landscapers are unavailable?
How will massive deportations affect the ways we live, and does it matter?
To be sure, the rule of law is to be respected, and those who are here illegally have been delinquent in handling their business. But most of these people are not the “dangerous criminals” that our very dangerous president rails about. He has been using them as a prop since he announced his candidacy for our nation’s highest office in 2015.
Who, really, is disturbing domestic tranquility with harsh and inhumane rhetoric, and absurd raids at schools, churches and graduations?
Who is attacking the economy with inflationary tactics that will increase wages for those in industries not heavily supported by immigrants?
Who has incited violence by targeting even legal immigrants, those who once had protected status, with hateful vitriol?
To be sure, everyone must have legal status, but bipartisan committees have twice offered legislation that provides pathways to legal citizenship. Our legislators, led by bipartisan groups of senators, have declined to move forward.
Again, what would we do without immigrants?
Julianne Malveaux is an economist, author and commentator based in Washington, D.C.
Photo courtesy of Little Bit Foundation
Julianne Malveaux
Continued from A1
of the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis as they continue to provide tornado relief services in response to the devastating storms that took place May 16.
Marie-Hélène Bernard, President and CEO of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra thanked the members of her organization for donating their time and talents. She also expressed gratitude to The Fabulous Fox for providing space to present the concert that featured Grammy winner BeBe Winans along with the orchestra, the St. Louis Symphony Chorus and the IN UNISON Chorus and The Muny for assisting with organization and logistics.
“Funds raised today will go directly to the Urban League. The Symphony, The Fox, The Muny…everyone is covering their own cost,” Bernard said as she mentioned several other names who made the event possible. “We are here today to provide support to the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis for their relief efforts. Their work is critical in supporting our communities and our neighbors and friends.”
According to Urban League President and CEO Michael McMillan, Bernard called his organization the very day the storm touched down on May 16 with a simple question. “How can the Symphony help?”
Medicaid
Continued from A1
“This bill hikes energy bills, guts health care for working families, and will force rural hospitals to
The inquiry was on brand for Bernard since her arrival in 2015.
“When she came to St. Louis, she immediately reached out and said, ‘I want to create a relationship with the Urban League,” McMillan said. “I want to bring everyone together – every race, rich, poor, young and old. She is someone who is a gem in our community.”
Every mention of his organization after that, he referred to the institution as “your Urban League.”
“Over the last six weeks, your Urban League has been at the forefront of providing food, clothing, shelter – getting 400 people into hotels at the expense of almost one million dollars a month to make sure they have some place to lay their heads,” McMillan said. “Every Saturday, we are giving away over $300,000 worth of items to 3000 people in
close all to send billions in tax breaks to the ultrawealthy and corporate special interests. It’s a direct betrayal of the people he was elected to represent.
“Despite weeks of pretending to be undecided and voicing concerns
this community. We will continue, because your Urban League is going to work harder than ever to deal with the tragedy of this tornado – and do more than we have ever done.”
The performance began with Samuel Barber’s “Adagio For Strings.”
Composed in 1938, the work is one of the world’s most famous pieces of classical music. The song has often been used as a musical response to monumental grief, including the September 11 attacks, the Orlando nightclub shooting of 2016 and the lives impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. It was broadcast following the announcement of the death of President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1945 and after the funeral of John F. Kennedy.
And on Sunday it was performed in tribute to Patricia Pendleton and others who lost their lives
about Medicaid cuts, Hawley weakly caved to GOP leadership and cast his vote in favor of the bill.”
Democratic Congressman Wesley Bell voted no on the original House version of the bill
when the devastating tornado touched down in the region.
“She was a charter member of the IN UNISON Chorus who sang with the group for more than 25 years,” McBeth said. “Ms. Pat was known throughout our community as a person who got things done. Her influence and generosity will continue to live on through our music.”
True to form, Sunday’s rendition reflected sorrow – and yet somehow provided nourishment and optimism as Denève brought the piece to a close.
“May 16 uprooted many lives in our region,” McBeth said.
In his IN UNISON origin story, he talked about how 35 partner churches joined forces more than 30 years ago to create the renowned chorus. Of those 35, nine churches
while Ann Wagner, a Republican, voted yes.
According to recent reporting and economic analysis:
• Missouri households will face $2.1 billion in higher energy costs over the next decade
BeBe Winans emerged wearing a colorful blazer he called his “Joseph jacket” and full of gratitude – particularly for David and Thelma Steward, who were among the people listed as those who helped make the concert possible.
sustained damage from the tornado. It was at Centennial Church where Pendleton was among those churches.
“A portion of the funds raised will directly help these houses of worship rebuild,” McBeth said.
The program also featured an original poem by IN UNISON Chorus member and published author Teresia Simmons and the community’s response to the storm’s impact.
“We saw love. We saw hope. We saw family. We saw the village,” Simmons read. “St. Louis, the road is long to recovery. But hope and love will (prevail) – and has prevailed.”
The responsibility to introduce featured soloist BeBe Winans fell upon McBeth since it followed his turn.
“Another aspect of today was to find a guest artist who reflected the mission of this benefit,
• 37,400 jobs will be lost by 2035
• Missouri’s GDP will shrink by $27 billion
• Up to 250,000 Missourians could lose their health insurance
“This is what politics over people looks like,” Carnahan said.
“Josh Hawley put ambition and party loyalty ahead of the health and economic security of Missouri families. Voters won’t forget this vote, and we won’t let them.”
Richard E. Besser, MD, president and CEO of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, issued the following statement in response to the Senate passage.
“As communities prepare this week to celebrate American rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, the Senate has decided to reverse generations of progress on all three. America is at its best when all families and communities have what they need to be healthy and thrive. By contrast, the Senate’s bill takes those things away, stripping people’s ability to live with dignity, security, and the assurance of having their basic needs met,” he wrote.
and would bring a level of music to the event that lifted us even higher,” McBeth said.
Winans emerged wearing a colorful blazer he called his “Joseph jacket” and full of gratitude – particularly for David and Thelma Steward, who were among the people listed as those who helped make the concert possible.
“I absolutely love when you are under – and around – people who just have hearts for giving and loving everyone,” Winans said. “You can’t help but say yes when they pick up the phone and say, ‘come to St. Louis.’” He performed the upbeat “Teach Me” and “Born for This” – a song he described as his autobiography. For the final selection, there was no “tag” between McBeth and Denève – because he was a part of the team in a different way. As the singers belted the spiritual “Freedom’s Plow” he was on the choir stand singing alongside the other tenors being directed by McBeth. The culminating moment of the afternoon was McMillan’s return to the stage to announce the initial tally of funds raised from the concert. The final count will be released on Monday, July 6.
“This is a defining moment for us in St. Louis,” McMillan said. “As the Jesuits used to tell me and others in high school every single day, you will never be remembered for what you did for yourself. Your legacy will always be what you did for others.”
inflict so much damage on the people they represent.”
Amy Blouin, president and CEO of Missouri Budget Project, said “Despite the rhetoric from DC, this bill puts Medicaid and food assistance at risk for all Missourians, even when they’re eligible, and even when they meet requirements.”
n According to Richard E. Besser, MD, the bill cuts nearly $1 trillion from essential health programs like Medicaid and SNAP.
“The bill undermines our country’s long-standing commitment to make sure families don’t go hungry. And it’s a particular blow to Missouri’s rural communities, where some health care providers may have to shut down and local economies will be hurt.”
Blouin said Missouri will struggle to pick up costs, and state lawmakers will face extremely difficult choices, like whether to get rid of SNAP in Missouri, eliminate optional benefits like home- and community-based services that keep people living in their communities, or cut funding for services like education.
According to Besser, the bill cuts nearly $1 trillion from essential health programs like Medicaid and SNAP.
“Millions of hard-working people will lose healthcare coverage and food assistance under the heavy burden of new punitive governmental red tape. By its very design, the bill will make our country sicker, put children at risk of going hungry, and make it harder for families to afford basic necessities.
“People with disabilities will lose critical healthcare coverage that allows them to work and live independently.
Rural communities across America will be decimated from hospital closures, and people will lose their lives. It is unfathomable to see policymakers intentionally
Thousands of other Missourians will lose health coverage due to other changes in the bill affecting health care insurance through the marketplace created by the Affordable Care Act.
“The harms from this bill will affect all Missourians,” said Blouin.
“When people don’t have insurance, they still get sick, but their care is more likely to be in an emergency setting. And when hospitals can’t recoup their costs, it increases the cost of healthcare and insurance for us all.”
“This entire bill is about choices. So far, Congress has made the choice to increase the nation’s deficit and prioritize the wants of the 1% over the basic needs of millions of Americans.”
Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American
Camp
Continued from A1
Elias Scott, a sophomore at Alabama A&M University, said early exposure to programs like this is critical, particularly for Black and Brown students. “They need to see that these careers are attainable,” he said. “Opportunities like this show them what’s possible.”
The science lessons also apply to life lessons that the younger kids can use over time, Scott said.
The free, 3-week program helps underserved students create a pathway that helps them build essential life skills, strengthen their environmental awareness, and combat summer learning loss through hands-on STEM projects and literacy-focused activities. Games and group activities such as archery, birding with binoculars, campfire cooking, fishing, canoeing, and animal studies help campers build social skills while gaining
Awards
Continued from A1
1st place for Original Advertising Campaign E. Washington Rhodes Award
“The Supporters Campaign”: Concept by Dawn Suggs, produced by Dawn Suggs, Donald Suggs, Apryl Piloll and Raven Whitener; original photography by Taylor Marrie; online graphics produced by James Lebine and Dawn Suggs and newspaper graphics produced by Melvin Moore
1st place for Special
outdoor experiences. The kids participate in mapping, nature journaling, and plant identification studies, which build literacy skills. Cathy Sewell, Newspaper In Education manager for the St. Louis American Newspaper and director of the Summer Science Academy, says the STEM program is a great way for kids to get more one-on-one time with instructors as well as opportunities to dive into more complex science activities.
“We have five school districts participating this year,” Sewell said. “Riverview Gardens, SLPS, and Hazelwood, to name a few, all have students in the program.”
The camp welcomes students as young as third grade, offering learning activities that spark curiosity and confidence. While the core program runs through seventh grade, middle schoolers can graduate into leadership roles, returning as peer mentors to guide the younger participants. High school students, meanwhile, have
Edition Leon W. Washington Award
2024 Diversity Issue: St. Louis American staff
2nd place for Sports –Don King Award Mike Terhaar, Art Director; Earl Austin Jr. Sports Editor; Alvin A. Reid, News Editor
3rd place for Website Excellence A. Philip Randolph Award: Digital Editors: James LeBine, Isaiah Peters and Dawn Suggs
“I want to congratulate our entire St. Louis American team for the work we put in throughout
While the Summer Science Academy runs through seventh grade, middle schoolers can graduate into leadership roles, returning as peer mentors to guide the younger participants.
the opportunity to engage through a partnership with Youth Exploring Science (Y.E.S.).
This summer, campers had a unique chance to learn directly from civil engineers with the Conference of Minority
the year. Each department of our newspaper is represented among the award winners,” said Donald M. Suggs, publisher and executive editor.
“We are especially encouraged by the effort of the American’s digital team and its two firstplace awards. A more robust website and digital presence in the St. Louis community is an essential goal for the American in the future.”
The 2025 conference theme, “Elevate: Celebrating the Black Press – 198 Years and Counting Toward 200 Years of Excellence,” included
Transportation Officials (COMTO). Each student received a LEGO set and was encouraged to design and build their own streetscape in order to learn more about urban planning and transportation systems.
Over the past eight
the Messenger Awards presentations at the JW Marriott River Landing.
The awards recognized the best in health reporting, education coverage, photography, business journalism, and digital storytelling.
The Sacramento Observer emerged as the evening’s top honoree, earning the John B. Russwurm Pinnacle Award for its “consistently high-caliber reporting and deep community engagement,” according to judges.
Shirley Ann Barber James, publisher of the Savannah Tribune, received a standing ova-
years, the camp has served nearly 200 students, many of whom are experiencing these kinds of opportunities for the first time.
“It’s just a lot of things some of these kids don’t get to do,” said Sewell. “When we take field trips to Illinois, it’s the first time some of them have ever left Missouri. Sewell says some of the students will make their own science projects at home just for fun.
According to Pew Research Center data, Black workers made up 9% of the U.S. STEM workforce in 2021 — a figure that has remained virtually unchanged since 2016. This lags behind their 11% share of the overall workforce, highlighting a persistent gap in representation. The disparity is even more pronounced in fields like engineering and architecture, where Black professionals account for only 5% of workers. In contrast, health-related STEM occupations are the only sector where Black representation matches the broader labor force, at
tion as she accepted the Publisher of the Year award.
She was recognized for her decades-long commitment to journalistic excellence and community advocacy. Her leadership, colleagues noted, has been instrumental in preserving the voice of the Black Press in Savannah and beyond.
“This is more than an awards show,” said Karen Carter Richards, chair of the NNPA Fund and publisher of the Forward Times
“It’s a celebration of our resilience, a spotlight on our excellence, and a recommitment to the mis-
around 11%.
Meanwhile, white workers comprise 67% of all STEM roles and approximately 71% of engineering jobs. The racial pay gap within STEM remains significant. In 2021, Black full-time STEM workers aged 25 and older earned a median salary of $61,100, compared to $78,000 for their white counterparts. The National Science Board underscores the urgency of addressing these disparities, stressing that a diverse STEM workforce is vital to U.S. innovation, competitiveness, and long-term leadership in science and technology.
Doug Schilling, program manager for Y.E.S., said having mentors who look like the majority of the kids being served is helping bridge that gap and developing a pathway to help them succeed.
“Y.E.S. serves the underserved African-American community, and this is a great time for the campers to see role models that can lead and show a good example of what they can do,” he said.
sion of the Black Press.”
Through partnerships with the Google News Initiative, Comerica Bank, and H-E-B, the NNPA Fund awarded scholarships to students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities and pursuing careers in multimedia journalism. Sponsors for the 2025 ceremony included Google, Comerica Bank, H-E-B, JW Marriott Savannah, and Exclusive Engravings, a Black and veteran-owned business responsible for crafting the evening’s custom awards.
Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American
The King of Market Street
When singers came in to audition, it was often Edith who decided if they were passed along.
Henry Johnson in Clarksville, Tennessee, Jesse J. Johnson became an essential part of Mill Creek Valley’s social culture and the St. Louis blues scene through his personal and business enterprise. Known as the “King of Market Street,” he was a restaurant owner, music promoter, booking agent, businessman, and entrepreneur through his business empire, DeLuxe Enterprises.
His wife, Edith North Johnson, who was born in 1903 in St. Louis, was a classic blues singer as well as a pianist and songwriter. An animated person with a lively and expressive voice, Edith recorded frequently, sometimes under the names Hattie North or Maybelle Allen. She cut 18 songs in 1928 and 1929 alone, including “Honey Dripper Blues.”
Together the Johnsons curated a social culture in Mill Creek Valley that expanded far outside of their community. DeLuxe Enterprises included the DeLuxe Taxicab Company, DeLuxe Chicken Shack, DeLuxe Music Shoppe, and DeLuxe Restaurant, all located within Mill Creek Valley. These businesses employed over 90 people and created numerous opportunities and resources for local residents, with DeLuxe Restaurant becoming a beacon of community interaction.
The St. Louis music scene owes Jesse many thanks for his work as a highly successful promoter and the only licensed music booker in Missouri. He worked with some of the biggest names in blues. Musicians like Duke Ellington, Billy Strayhorn, Juan Tizol, and Herb Jeffries joined together for jam sessions at his Club 49. He booked Cab Calloway, Louis Armstrong, and other household names for gigs in St. Louis, including Ella Fitzgerald’s performance at O’Fallon Park. Jesse was known for driving through St. Louis with musicians playing in the bed of his truck, and his DeLuxe Music Shoppe was ground zero for aspiring blues and jazz musicians in St. Louis. Edith worked alongside Jesse, keeping an eye out for local talent and honing the skills of those who stopped by the store.
On February 15, 1946, Jesse died after experiencing a stroke on a train from Chicago to St. Louis. Before his passing, he had announced plans for improvements and expansions of his promotional and business ventures. He already had a working plan for a concert with singer and saxophonist Tony Pastor at the Kiel Auditorium, and it was thanks to Edith that this event still happened as planned. Edith continued to run the restaurant and taxi company before eventually devoting her career to social work. In the late 1950s and early ’60s, she was contacted by music researchers including Paul Oliver, who interviewed her for his book Conversations with the Blues. She passed away in St. Louis in 1988.
On Thursday evening, July 17, the Missouri History Museum’s Thursday Nights at the Museum topic will be “A Seat at the Table: Black Entrepreneurship and Economic Justice.” The evening begins at 5pm with food and drinks available for purchase from Amighetti’s, vendor tables featuring Black-owned businesses, and card games. At 6:30pm, head to the Lee Auditorium to explore Black economic power in St. Louis in the form of Black businesses and entrepreneurship. Hear first from MHS Curator of Urban Landscape and Community Identity Gwen Moore as she discusses Mill Creek Valley as an epicenter of Black life in St. Louis. Moore is the curator of an upcoming exhibit, Mill Creek: Black Metropolis, opening at the Museum on November 15. Afterward there will be a panel discussion with community members representing long-standing Black businesses and community networks, including Ohun Ashe (For the Culture STL), Fred Sweets (St. Louis American), Lois Jackson and Wayne Jackson (Collier Brothers Auto Body), and Howard Denson (St. Louis Black Pages). Enjoy an enlightening conversation about the history of Black financial autonomy in St. Louis and how to protect this economic power in the present day.
Thursday Nights at the Museum is presented by WashU.
Missouri Historical Society Collections
View looking west on Market Street in Mill Creek Valley toward Grand
HealthMattersHealthMattersHealthMatters
Heat waves hit Black communities without mercy
STL facing another scorcher
The Rev. Earl Nance Jr. of Mt. Carmel Missionary Baptist Church and chair emeritus of cooldownstlouis.org said St. Louisans should use their air conditions during hot days and that Ameren has programs to help pay higher utility bills. Ameren donated 900 air conditioners last week to the cooldown.org and the area is now preparing for more scorching days over the holiday weekend.
By Jennifer Porter Gore
Word In Black
Anyone living in St. Louis, elsewhere in the Midwest, South or on the East Coast already experienced the first heat wave of the summer, a deadly weather event that’s bringing record-breaking, triple-digit temperatures to much of the country. St. Louis and other cities are bracing for a return of scorching weather over the 4th of July weekend.
On Wednesday, June 28, 2025,
n Officials blamed the heat for the death of a 55-yearold woman in St. Ann, Mo., and for buckling roads in St. Louis.
seven states including Missouri saw temperatures that tied or broke records. New York, Philadelphia, and Boston all hit or surpassed 100 degrees. In Newark, New Jersey, the thermometer reached 103 degrees before it stopped working — at a water park.
‘A loss for the community’
Richard Liekweg, DEI, health equity stalwart, retiring from BJC Healthcare
By Alvin A. Reid
St. Louis American
St. Louis and the Midwest will lose one of its prominent health care leaders on Oct. 1, 2025, when BJC Health System’s CEO Rich Liekweg retires, the nonprofit organization has announced.
While he oversaw one of the nation’s largest healthcare providers, with a St. Louis headquarters, Liekweg never lost touch with the patients BJC serves and its thousands of employees.
“It is unusual to see the CEO of a business the size of BJC never lose his empathy for the well-being of everyone. This is a huge loss for the community,” said Dr. Donald M. Suggs, St. Louis American
Officials blamed the heat for the death of a 55-year-old woman in St. Ann, Mo. and for buckling roads in St. Louis – where many remain without power for air conditioning following the May 16, 2025 tornado. n New York, Gov. Kathy Hochul, a Democrat, declared a weather-related state of emergency. Authorities in Washington, D.C., Pittsburgh, Seattle, and a dozen other locations opened cooling centers for residents who don’t have air conditioning at home. In other words, you don’t need to work for the weather service to know
See HEAT WAVES, A11
Staying cool and sun-safe this summer
By Dr. Graham A. Colditz Siteman Cancer Center
Food sizzling on the grill is one of the classic sounds of summer — right up there with kids splashing in sprinklers and the crack of a bat at the ballpark. That sizzling can also be a good stand-in for how we might feel outside on a sweltering day. With a little planning, though, we can make our time in the sun feel cooler and more comfortable — and much better for our skin. “Any amount of tan, and certainly sunburn, represents damage to the DNA of our skin cells,” said Dr. Aubriana McEvoy, a dermatologist at WashU Medicine in St. Louis. “And the more sun people get over their lives, the more of a chance there is for damaged cells to turn into skin cancer, which can affect our quality of life and, in some cases, the length of our lives.”
Too much sun can also lead to wrinkles, coarse skin and discoloration, making our skin look older than it is, she added.
n Too much sun can also lead to wrinkles, coarse skin and discoloration, making our skin look older than it is.
Some simple steps can go a long way toward lowering the risk of skin cancer while keeping our skin looking healthier as well. And everyone can benefit, from those with fair skin to those with darker skin.
Sunscreen is a great place to start. Choose one with Sun Protection Factor (SPF) 30 or higher and be sure to use a generous amount, about an ounce for an adult at the pool — reapplying every couple hours. There are a lot of sunscreen options these days, so try out a number of them to find one you and See COLDITZ, A11
publisher and executive editor who sat on several boards with Liekweg and collaborated with him on multiple projects.
The human kindness extolled by Liekweg also included his refusal to ignore the racism and social division that continues to plague the St. Louis region
In a June 1, 2020 commentary he shared with BJC Healthcare employees and the St. Louis American, Liekweg wrote:
“St. Louis is still challenged by decades of segregation, structural racism and pockets of socioeconomic despair that exacerbate health disparities between races.”
See LIEKWEG, A11
Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American
Your Health Matters is provided in partnership with
Photo by Taylor Marrie / St. Louis American
MidWest BankCentre CEO Orvin T. Kimbrough (right) takes a selfie with BJC Healthcare CEO Richard Liekweg and FOCUS St. Louis President and CEO Dr. Yemi Akande-Bartsch during the 27th What’s Right with The Region Awards program at The Sheldon on May 12, 2024. Liekweg, a champion of DEI and health equity, has announced that he is retiring on October 1.
Dr. Graham A. Colditz
Heat Waves
Continued from A10
that a heat dome has temperatures entirely out of hand. Unfortunately, the heat is likely to get worse this summer: the National Weather Service predicts higher-than-average temperatures nationwide during July and August.
And urban, predominantly Black neighborhoods — which are more likely to have buildings and blacktop that draw heat, and less likely to have tree canopies that help keep things cooler will suffer most.
The technical definition of a heat dome explains how it causes discomfort.
According to the National Weather Service, a heat dome is a high-pressure system that traps hot air underneath it, leading to prolonged, dangerously high temperatures with little relief day or night. This week, the heat dome is beating down roughly 90 million people nationwide.
From coast to coast, people agree that whatever a heat dome is, it’s unkind.
Joking aside, extreme heat can be deadly.
Shauna Thomas was found dead in a sweltering apartment in St. Ann, Missouri, a St. Louis suburb, not long after the
Liekweg
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“The shooting death of Michael Brown by a white police officer almost six years ago exposed how volatile race relations were in St. Louis. And, it placed a magnifying glass on the underlying root causes. Yet six years later, sadly, we have made little progress in improving the quality of life for those most at risk in our community.”
Liekweg also acknowledged what few CEOs and corporate leaders do.
“I can’t deny my privilege, but I can stand up, step forward, and call out these injustices that people who look like me have perpetuated, supported and promoted far too long,” he wrote.
“And I will do just that each and every day going forward. I now call on my white friends to do the same. Use the unearned privilege of birth for the benefit of all. If you cannot, then step aside, sit down, and get out of the way. The health and future of all God’s children depend on it.” Kelvin Westbrook, a former BJC board chair who helped recruit Liekweg, said the retiring CEO impressed him as “a highly talented, thoughtful, strategic, and respected leader.”
Under his stewardship, I watched BJC greatly expand its operations and increase its efforts to further its mission to ‘improve the health of the communities which it serves,” said Westbrook.
Colditz
Continued from A10
your family like.
“My favorite sunscreen is the one you will wear,” McEvoy said.
Clothes are another way to stay sun-safe. Longsleeved shirts, pants and wide-brimmed hats do a great job covering skin and don’t need to be reapplied
HealthMattersHealthMattersHealthMatters
power had been shut off. In Maryland, the number of emergency-department visits for heat-related problems surged in June. And the number of heat-related deaths nation-
wide has risen every year since 1999; in 2023, more than 21,000 people died nationwide from heat-related illnesses or causes in which heat was a factor. So, since it’s going to
be here for a while, what can you do to beat the heat?
Heat-related illnesses occur when a person’s body temperature rises faster than it
can cool itself down, says the Public Health Collaborative. These illnesses can range from heat bumps and cramps to heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Heat exhaustion symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, nausea, and rapid pulse. If it is not managed quickly, heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke.
Heat stroke is life-threatening and happens when the body’s temperature regulation system fails. Symptoms include extremely high body temperatures, throbbing headache, dizziness, confusion, and loss of consciousness.
If you must be outdoors, especially for a long time, authorities recommend staying in the shade as much as possible. Take breaks often and do outdoor activities during the coolest parts of the morning or evening.
If you’re using household fans to keep cool, make sure the indoor temperature is less than 90 degrees. At higher temperatures, using a fan can increase body temperature.
If your home doesn’t have air conditioning, find a location that
has one by dialing 2-1-1 or use the National Center for Healthy Housing’s Cooling Centers by State page. You can also contact your local health department or emergency management agency.
Keeping enough fluids in your body requires more than just drinking something when you’re thirsty. The recommendation to “drink plenty of fluids” means to sip water every 20 minutes — even if you don’t feel thirsty.
Carry a water bottle, refill it. Limit sugary beverages and drinks high in sodium, caffeine, and alcohol since they can be dehydrating. Make sure your urine color is light yellow or clear — a sign, experts say, you are drinking enough water. Teacolored or darker is an early indicator of dehydration.
Also, be sure to check on your family, friends, and neighbors, especially if you know they have chronic medical problems, are elderly, or they live alone. And don’t forget to make sure your pets are also weather-ready.
“Many WMBEs and other contractors, suppliers and vendors became more meaningful participants in BJC’s activities, including its campus renewal and other capital projects, all of which served to benefit the overall health and economy of the region.
Michael P. McMillan, Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis president and CEO, called Liekweg “a champion of DEI.”
“Rich and BJC were a partner of the Urban League on numerous projects,” said McMillan.
“We applaud him on his career and wish him the best in this next chapter of his life.”
Tony Thompson,
like sunscreen. And there are many inexpensive, lightweight options that are specifically made to protect from the sun and that have their own rating, called Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF). As with sunscreens, the higher the UPF number, the greater the protection. The combination of clothes and shade from trees or sun shelters can be particularly important
founder and chair of Kwame Building Group and a BJC Healthcare board member, called Liekweg “a good man.”
“Many women and minorities ascended to leadership during his term. He had the right personality and demeanor for such an important position,” said Thompson.
Liekweg served for 40 years in the health care industry including the past 10 at the helm of BJC Heath System.
“It has been an honor to serve and lead our team members these past 16 years as they deliver exceptional care to our patients and communities,” Liekweg stated in
for kids. Sunscreen is not recommended for children under 6 months old. And older kids can be so active that it can be hard to keep them well-covered in sunscreen, McEvoy added. Shade and lightweight, loose-fitting clothes can also help with staying cool and feeling good on a hot day summer day. And it’s hard to overstate the importance of drinking enough water. It can be
his resignation announcement.
“Together, we successfully navigated through unprecedented times in the industry, never losing sight of our singular purpose to improve the health and well-being of the communities we serve. I am deeply proud of our caregivers, the culture we have created, and the values we share that place the patient at the center of all we do.”
Liekweg joined BJC in 2009 as president of Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital and served as group president of BJC HealthCare. He was later named executive vice president and
easy to get behind on our hydration, especially on a fun-filled outing with family and friends. Try to keep a bottle close by filled with plain water or low-sugar sports drink mix. Make it as easy as possible for you and your family to stay hydrated.
For many of us, summer is the best time of year, in no small part because we get to spend so much time enjoying long days
then president of BJC HealthCare in 2015.
In 2018, he became CEO of BJC Health System. During his tenure it has grown to be one of the largest nonprofit academic health systems in the United States.
BJC is “a powerful economic engine that helps lift the entire Midwest region,” according to a release.
BJC’s 47,000 caregivers care for more than a million patients each year across 24 hospitals and more than 250 clinics and service centers located throughout Missouri, southern Illinois, and eastern Kansas.
BJC remains “a safety-net provider helping
and warm weather outside. And that’s an important part of life, McEvoy feels. Also important, of course, is doing so safely and healthfully.
When asked for one of her favorite tricks for staying cool and sun-safe in summer heat, she replied:
“If I’m at the playground or park with my kids, I’ll wear a sun-protective shirt and just wet it down. That keeps me way
ensure everyone who needs care gets care, and a trusted community partner investing more than $1.2 billion annually in community benefit to improve lives for those in communities it serves.”
Liekweg will be succeeded by Nick Barto, the system’s president.
“As Rich leaves to enjoy a well-deserved retirement, BJC is well positioned to continue to pursue its mission and I would expect his successor, Nick Barto (who has worked extensively with Rich and been an integral part of BJC since 2018), to continue to build on the successful track record he is inheriting,” said Westbrook.
cooler and protects me from the sun.”
Dr. Graham A. Colditz, associate director of prevention and control at Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and WashU Medicine in St. Louis, is an internationally recognized leader in cancer prevention and the creator of the 8ightWays® to Prevent Cancer series.
Black people living in underserved communities are more likely to be affected by extreme heat because of limited access to air conditioning and other types of relief. Make sure you carry a water bottle and refill when empty.
Photo courtesy of Word In Black
Rich Liekweg, BJC Healthcare CEO, stood with physicians, nurses, and support staff throughout the pandemic, including this Fit2Be Cancer Free event. Liekweg said the pandemic exposed the wide healthcare gaps in St. Louis and throughout America.
Photo courtesy of BJC Health Care
St. Louis launches tornado recover programs
Will help with urgent repairs, tech guidance
By Alvin A. Reid St. Louis Amerian
St. Louis Mayor Cara Spencer has announced several new recovery programs to assist residents impacted by the May 16 tornado.
“The programs address urgent repair needs, provide trusted technical guidance, and protect homeowners from fraud or further damage,” Spencer says in a release.
The programs include:
Emergency
Stabilization Program
The Emergency Stabilization Program will provide immediate weatherization to prevent further damage, including roof tarping, boarding windows and doors, hazardous tree removal, and moving debris to the right-of-way.
The program is free to eligible residents in tornado-impacted areas, with priority given to seniors, uninsured households and homes in Zones A-C. Work is completed by licensed and insured contractors.
Electricity Reconnection Program
Many St. Louis homes remain without power because of structural damage. The Electrical Reconnection Program provides free electrical assessments and repairs (up to $4,000 per household) to restore service. Eligible homes must be owner-occupied, have received a yellow safety placard from a city or MO SAVE inspector, and be safe to enter.
The city has partnered with IBEW Local 1, the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA), ArchKey/Sachs, Guarantee Electric, RJP Electric, and the St. Louis Home Repair Network for the program. Repairs are performed by licensed, union electricians. Following repairs, residents must contact Ameren to restore service; no reconnection fee will be charged.
Ask an Architect
The Ask an Architect program provides free, in-person consultations with licensed architects from the St. Louis Chapter of the American Institute of Architects to help residents understand damage and plan
Children play in Fountain Park during a Juneteenth Festival Sat. June 14, 2025 in the shadow of homes still badly damaged from the F3 tornado that touched parts of St. Louis on Friday May 16, 2025. The city has launched four programs to assist residents impacted by the storm.
their next steps. Residents can stop by during open hours to discuss structural concerns, learn how to work with contractors and get support on rebuilding plans and permits. Drop-in hours are currently on Mondays and Wednesdays from 12 to 3 p.m. at City Hall in Room 425 (Building Division).
This service is open to both homeowners and renters. No appointment is required.
Contractor Registry
To help protect residents against fraud
See TORNADO, B2
Hair stylists among first to feel tariff impact
Cost of hair grows quickly
By ReShonda Tate Houston Defender Network
Black hairstylists and their clients are bracing for price hikes and supply shortages after the Trump administration announced new tariffs on imported Chinese goods—including the synthetic and human hair products that power the multibillion-dollar Black hair industry.
The back-and-forth tariff dance is still ongoing, but many merchants have already tacked on increases for what they consider the inevitable.
Earlier this year, the U.S. Trade Representative’s office levied tariffs as high as 145% on certain Chinese imports. Although that figure was later reduced to 30%, industry leaders say the damage is already done—and Black-owned businesses are taking the hit.
“Everything from the shampoo to the thread to sew the wigs have gone up because of tariffs,” said Houston stylist Davion Anderson, who specializes in custom wig making. “In fact,
Stylist Davion Anderson says he will have to increase his prices because of tariffs on hair that is imported from China. The hair he buys for clients’ wigs has gone up over 40%.
the hair I usually buy for my clients to make their wigs has gone up 40%.” Warren Broadnax, CEO of She’s Happy Hair—a national Black-owned beauty brand with five retail locations—says his company has been pushed to the brink by the unpredictable, rising costs. “Without a sustainable tariff rate being set, we can’t forecast how to set our prices,” Broadnax explained. “That cuts into our margins. At first, we tried to eat some of the costs. But when tariffs jumped aggressively, we had no choice but to raise prices just to stay in business.” In 2024 alone, the U.S. imported more than $1.6 billion in wigs, weaves, and hairpieces—most of it from China. This includes synthetic and human hair bundles, braiding hair, lace-front wigs, clo-
See STYLISTS, B2
Hamilton returns to law firm Dowd Bennett
Sheena Hamilton
Former St. Louis City Counselor Sheena Hamilton has rejoined law firm of Dowd Bennett LLP as a partner after serving as St. Louis city counselor during the administration of former Mayor Tishaura Jones. Hamilton previously worked for the Clayton-based law firm for nearly seven years, starting as an associate in 2015 and making partner in 2020. She left in September 2021 when then-Mayor Jones made Hamilton the first Black woman to serve as St. Louis city government’s chief attorney.
Mathew Kimaku honored for leadership
Mathew Kimaku
University of Missouri student Mathew Kimaku was recently honored in St. Joseph, Mo., as a Remington R. Williams Award recipient for outstanding leadership The award honors Remington R. Williams, who served as student representative to the Board of Curators from 2020 until his untimely death in June 2022. Kimaku is pursuing a degree in health science, nutrition and exercise physiology and minors in chemistry and biology in the College of Health Sciences.
Bryant named FOCUS STL board president Edward Bryant
FOCUS St. Louis has announced that Edward Bryant, Heartland CocaCola vice president, public affairs and communications will serve as board president during the 2025-26 fiscal year. His fellow board officers are, Executive Vice Chair – Matthew Blakely, Vice President, Corporate Social Responsibility & Sustainability, RGA Reinsurance; Vice Chair – Missy Kelley, Chief Growth Officer, Anders; Treasurer – John McClelland, Portfolio Manager, Acropolis Investment Management LLC; Secretary – Sara Stock, CEO, Stock Legal, Co-Founder, Legal Back Office; Member-at-Large – Stephen Lee, Vice President & Interim General Counsel, Ameren.
Chris Pickett goes back to UB Greensfelder
Chris Pickett
Chris Pickett has rejoined UB Greensfelder as a partner and is a member of the Business Litigation practice. Pickett served as global head of non-compete agreements at Amazon since 2022. He was a trial lawyer, chief diversity officer and a member of the board of directors at Greensfelder, Hemker & Gale PC from 2012 to 2022. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from Saint Louis University in 1996 and his law degree from SLU in 2001.
Promotion, board appointment, new hire, award... please submit your People on the Move item (including photo) to areid@stlamerican.com
Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American
Photo courtesy of Davion Anderson
Tornado
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and ensure recovery work is done safely, the city has established a Contractor Registry.
Registered contractors receive a City-issued placard with a QR code linking to their verified license, insurance, and credentials. Residents should always ask to see the placard before hiring a contractor, scan the QR code and verify credentials at www. stlcitypermits.com/stlrecoversregistry
The registry allows residents to search by trade and confirm contractor status. While registration does not imply City endorsement, it does confirm license and insurance status, helping protect residents from contractors who might not be qualified to do the required work.
Full verification may take up to two weeks, and contractors who submit their information are given conditional verification until that process is complete. Conditional placards will include a QR code without a City seal. After verification, the contractor will receive an official placard that contains a QR code with the City seal.
Stylists
Continued from B1
sures, and even the packaging and tools required to create and maintain protective styles.
According to a study by Market.us, Black women spend six times more on hair care than other ethnicities. Protective styles are not a luxury—they are essential. But for stylists and hair businesses, the new tariffs have disrupted
“These programs are part of the city’s ongoing effort to respond quickly and comprehensively to the tornado’s impacts,” said Spencer.
City officials continue to coordinate closely with FEMA, the Missouri State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), nonprofit partners and local businesses, whose leadership and support have been invaluable in shaping
an already fragile ecosystem.
“My business has tapered off,” Anderson said. “People are having to choose between essentials and getting their hair done. And Black women often put their needs on the back burner to take care of their families.”
Broadnax echoes that sentiment and warns the problem runs deeper than just price hikes. “We’ve missed sales because we’re paying for inventory we don’t have,” he
and delivering recovery resources. As recovery needs evolve, additional services and support will be rolled out to ensure every resident and neighborhood can move forward safely.
Those needing assistance can call 311 or submit a Tornado Property Damage Assistance Request online through the Citizens’ Service Bureau. Residents who
said. “We’re one of the few companies that pays up front before receiving inventory. So when shipments are delayed two to three weeks while FedEx or DHL decide how much in tariffs we owe, that’s money sitting in limbo— and it’s impacting our ability to pay employees.”
Sometimes, he added, carriers show up with inventory only to demand thousands in fees on the spot. “We’ve literally had drivers show up with boxes and say, ‘You owe
Many city residents have visited the disaster recovery center tent at Sumner High School after it opened last week. Mayor Cara Spencer announced that the city has established four new tornado recovery programs to help residents impacted by the May 16, 2025 tornado.
16 tornado and storms.
At all locations, FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration will help impacted residents with their disaster assistance applications, answer questions, and upload required documents.
St. Louis County Library Mid-County Branch 7821 Maryland Ave. Clayton, MO 63105
St. Louis County Library Prairie Commons Branch 915 Utz Ln. Hazelwood, MO 63042
Urban League Entrepreneurship and Women’s Business Center 4401 Natural Bridge Ave. St. Louis, MO 63115
previously submitted damage reports through the Citizens’ Service Bureau, United Way 211, Crisis Cleanup, or by completing a Community Needs Assessment are already in the system and do not need to reapply.
Tornado recovery site temporarily closing
The Disaster Recovery Center at Union
$3,000 in tariffs and I need a money order right now,’” Broadnax said.
“Our staff doesn’t handle large amounts of cash, and we’re caught scrambling. That delay puts us further behind on sales.”
The delays and price fluctuations are not just hurting profits—they’re damaging consumer trust.
“Our customers have come to know us as reliable,” Broadnax said.
“We’re open seven days a week, and we keep the shelves stocked. But
Tabernacle M.B. Church, 626 N. Newstead Ave., St. Louis, MO 63108 will temporary close from July 6-13 due to a previously scheduled event at that location.
The site will reopen on July 14.
Four additional Disaster Recovery Centers are open in St. Louis City and St. Louis County to assist residents and businesses affected by the May
now, customers walk in looking for their favorite bundle and we don’t have it. That’s something we’ve worked 13 years to avoid.”
And even though inflation is affecting everyone, Broadnax says Black-owned businesses often don’t get the benefit of the doubt.
“If a $100 bundle becomes $240 overnight because of tariffs, most customers aren’t watching CNBC. They’re not thinking about trade
Sumner High School — Parking Lot 4248 Cottage Ave. St. Louis, MO 63113 The St. Louis County Library site hours are Monday-Thursday: 8 a.m.7 p.m. Friday-Saturday: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday: Closed. The Urban League and Sumner Highs School site hours are Monday-Saturday: 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday: 8 a.m.-6 p.m.
wars—they think we’re trying to get rich off them,” he said. “So some of these increases, we take on the chin. We’re resilient, but I don’t want that to make people think it’s easy. It’s anything but easy.” “These tariffs aren’t just about goods—they’re about our livelihoods, our self-worth, and our communities,” Anderson said. “And for Black women especially, hair has always been political.”
Photo by Lylee Gibbs / St. Louis Public Radio
n “When you get rebounds, it’s never a negative.”
– Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese after notching her WNBA record fourth consecutive double-double
InSIdE SportS
Earl Austin Jr.
With
St. Louis trio finds new teams on NBA Draft Night
A trio of former St. Louis area prep basketball standouts learned of their new professional futures during last week’s NBA Draft night. Former Trinity Catholic standout Ryan Kalkbrenner was selected by the Charlotte Hornets in the second round with the 34th pick. A 7’0” center, Kalkbrenner was a fourtime Big East Conference Defensive Player of the Year at Creighton.
Former CBC standout Caleb Love signed a two-way contract with the Portland Trailblazers as an undrafted free agent. Love enjoyed a tremendous career at North Carolina and Arizona. Former Vashon High standout Keshon Gilbert signed with the Washington Wizards as an undrafted free agent. Good luck to all three players as they try to make their NBA dreams come true.
TJ Hargrove gets a Mile High experience
Former East St. Louis and Saint Louis U. standout Terrence Hargrove will be playing in the NBA Summer League with the Denver Nuggets.
Hargrove attended a twoday camp with the team and was signed to a summer contract to play for Denver, which will begin play in the Las Vegas Summer League on July 10.
Hargrove spent this past season in Denmark, where he helped lead the Bakken Bears to the Basketligean Championship. St. Louisan Napheesa Collier of the Minnesota Lynx will be one of the team captains of the upcoming WNBA All-Star Game.
Haywood brings home the gold Sophomore girls’ basketball standout Jordyn Haywood of MICDS earned a gold medal as a member of Team USA at the recent FIBA U16 Americup Tournament in Mexico. The 6’1 guard averaged seven points and two assists a game for an undefeated Team USA squad. Her best performance of the tournament came on June 20 in a victory over Panama. Haywood scored 20 points on eight of nine shooting and a perfect four of four from 3-point range. She also had six assists in the game.
Collier and star guard Caitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever earned their captain’s roles by garnering the most fan votes. Clark received 1,293,526 fan votes to lead the way, while Collier was second with 1,176,020. Collier, the former Incarnate Word Academy star, is enjoying another tremendous season and is considered one of the early front runners for the Most Valuable Player award. She is averaging a career high 24.5 points, along with 8.4 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 1.8 steals and 1.5 blocks while shooting 51% from the field. She has led the Lynx to a league-best 14-2 record heading into this week. The All-Star Game will be held on July 19 at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.
Earl’s World
A trio of talented high school basketball players with NBA family lineage are transferring to new schools in the St. Louis area for the 2025-26 season. Seniors Jamison and Jahidi White Jr. are now at East St. Louis after playing the past three seasons at Chaminade College Prep. They are the sons of former Cardinal Ritter
star Jahidi White, who played nine seasons in the NBA. They were starters on Chaminade’s teams that played for the Class 6 state championship in each of the past two seasons. Both have already suited up for the Flyers in respective Romeoville and Rockford, Ill. events in June…Brock Bass-Bonner is also on the move. He announced on social media that he will attend Cardinal Ritter
SportS EyE
With Alvin A. Reid
Photo courtesy of ArizonaSports.com
College Prep. A 6’8” junior forward, Bonner is the son of former Vashon High and Saint Louis U. star Anthony Bonner who played several seasons in the NBA. Brock Bass-Bonner played his past two seasons at North Cobb Christian in Georgia, where he was an All-State selection. He averaged 18.7 points and 6.2 rebounds in leading his team to a berth in
the state championship game last season… Angel Reese of the Chicago Sky finished fifth in the 2025 WNBA All-Star fan voting for frontcourt players as the full list of starters was officially revealed and did not earn a starting spot. The fans voted her in, but when media votes were added, she missed by one spot. The 12 All-Star reserves will be announced on July 6.
My new place in the American’s starting lineup
Several times during the St. Louis Cardinals’ season a three-game home series ends with a day game on Wednesday.
I’ve often thought “I’d like to be there.” Alas, the St. Louis American goes to press on Wednesday evening. The next morning, editions are headed to dozens of locations throughout the St. Louis area.
The “free paper” is far from free. The work that goes into the 52 publications a year begins on Thursday and ends on Wednesday. It includes weekend coverage, online updates, and continues dedication.
The American remains not only one of the best Black weekly newspapers in the nation, but it is also recognized among the best weekly newspapers in Missouri and America.
None of this happens without Publisher and Executive Editor Donald Suggs. In fact, I seriously doubt there would be an
American without Dr. Suggs. On July 5, 1983, I took a shuttle from Manhattan, Kansas to Kansas City International Airport destined for Chicago and then Danville, Illinois. When I returned to Manhattan that night I had my first daily newspaper job at the Danville Commercial News. Newspaper jobs in Lansing, Michigan, Little Rock, Arkansas followed. Then, USA Today Baseball Weekly and Emerge magazine in Washington.
Four years ago, I returned to help lead the American, the publication I first worked for from 1996 to 2009. As news editor, I reveled in the responsibility of keeping the newspaper relevant, entertaining, serious, and always aware of its importance in the Black community. If this sounds like an obituary, it isn’t. When I say I’m transitioning, my service to the American is not deceased.
I’m changing roles, and a new person will fill my old one as I take a more online presence, focusing primarily on sports news. We’re going to make readers make stlamerican.com a must-read every morning. (Say that three times fast, LOL)
It’s a news challenge, and one I look forward to beginning soon.
I will be proud to still see my byline in this newspaper and to see this news-
The married duo of Tyler Kagley and Bryson Reid and yours’ truly modeled our St. Louis Stars jerseys on St. Louis Cardinals Black Heritage Day on June 22 at Busch Stadium.
paper’s name with mine on the Nine Network’s most popular show, Donnybrook. So, if you need me at 1:15 p.m. Wednesday, August 13, 2025, I’ll be at Busch Stadium watching the Cardinals and Colorado Rockies.
The Reid Roundup
St. Louisan Jayson Tatum released several video clips of rehab
workouts this week as he recovers from a ruptured Achillies. “This is some (stuff)” he says in one… Tatum’s Boston Celtics will look different next year with the team dealing Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis in money-saving moves… USMNT rising star Malik Tillman scored on a penalty kick to help the USA top Costa Rica last Sunday and advance to a July 2 Gold Cup semifinal match against Guatemala at Enterprise Stadium in St. Louis. Check www. stlamerican.com for the results of that contest… Victor Scott II broke up Pittsburgh hurler Andrew Heaney’s no hitter in the seventh inning of a 7-0 loss St. Louis Cardinals loss on Monday and continues to impress. Scott’s home run Sunday helped cap a weekend sweep of the Cleveland Guardians. He was hitting a respectable .245 with four home runs, 28 RBIs and 22 stolen bases on July 1… Coach Mike Tomlin and the Pittsburgh Steelers first signed Aaron Rodgers to play quarterback and on Monday traded safety Minkah Fitzpatrick for former All-Pro defensive back Jalen Ramsey and tight end Jonnu Smith LeBron James opted to stay with the L.A. Lakers for about $52 million next season. It is the first time in his 23 years that James didn’t opt out and receive a raise or leave the team he was with… Denver traded former Missouri player Michael Porter Jr., and a future No. 1 pick to Brooklyn for budding star forward Cameron Johnson. The Nuggets won that trade… Washington Nationals outfielder James Wood, 22, was issued four intentional walks by the L.A. Angels last weekend and became the first player since Barry Bonds in 2004 to receive the respectful honor… New Orleans moved up 10 spots in the NBA Draft via trades to questionably select former Maryland star Derik Queen No. 13 overall. The Pelicans landed former Oklahoma star Jeremiah Fears at No. 7. They’ll like St. Louis.
Earl Austin Jr.
Alvin A. Reid
Former University of Arizona guard Caleb Love of St. Louis has signed a two-way contract with the Portland Trail Blazers. He joins a Portland team featuring guards Jrue Holiday, Shaedon Sharp, Scoot Henderson and Deni Avdija.
Photo courtesy of the Kagley Reid family
Schnucks Round Up at Register garners $110K for tornado relief
Schnuck Markets, Inc. has announced that Schnucks customers and the company raised $110,000 to support St. Louis tornado victims following a “Round up at the Register” that concluded on June 10. The two-week campaign allowed customers to choose to round up their grocery purchase to the nearest dollar. Thanks to the generosity of Schnucks customers and the company, 100% of the donations will be split evenly between the United Way of Greater St. Louis and Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis to support the relief efforts for those affected by the tornado last month.
In addition to the round up campaign, Schnucks hosted a personal care item drive in St. Louis-area stores where customers were encouraged to bring in or purchase personal care items and leave them in each store’s respective collection bin.
Thanks to the kindness of Schnucks shoppers, 20 pallets of some of the most sought-after items have been
donated directly to those in need, according to Schnucks Chair and CEO Todd Schnuck.
“Seeing our community step up in such a big way, both by rounding up their purchases and donating personal care items, truly is inspiring. It’s a powerful reminder that nourishing people’s lives goes beyond our aisles – it’s about supporting our communities when they need us most,” said Schnuck.
“The devastation from the tornado was immense, but the spirit of generosity from our Schnucks customers and teammates gives us strength. This is a great start, but our work isn’t done. We remain committed to standing with our community partners and continuing to help those affected as they rebuild and recover.”
Schnucks has mobilized in the hardest hit neighborhoods with teammates having logged hundreds of volunteer hours helping to deliver thousands of meals to the community with many truckloads of food donated.
Metro available for Celebrate St. Louis transportation
With thousands of fairgoers expected in downtown St. Louis on Thursday, July 3, and Friday, July 4, for Celebrate St. Louis, MetroLink is available for area residents headed downtown to the festivities. Metro is recom-
Todd Schnuck, Schnucks Chair and CEO, presented Michael McMillan, Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis president and CEO, a check for $150,000 raised through a spring 2022 Round Up at the Register campaign. A recent Round Up at the Register to support the Urban League tornado assistance effort raised $110,000.
mending visitors use the Laclede’s Landing MetroLink Station for Celebrate St. Louis, as it is located directly next to all the 4th of July action at Gateway Arch National Park.
With 21 free ParkRide lots holding more than 10,000 parking spots at MetroLink stations in Missouri and Illinois, Metro’s goal is to “always be the best choice for anyone traveling to major events in the region,” according to a release.
Fairgoers are encouraged to download the Transit app to easily plan their Metro trip to the
celebration and avoid lines by purchasing a $5 Day Pass on their mobile device, good for round-trip travel to and from all the festivities downtown. Metro will have extra public safety personnel, transit personnel and employee ambassadors on the transit system on July 3-4 to assist riders. Extra MetroLink trains will be available if needed to help get everyone home after the fireworks. Customers are also advised to check the weekend MetroLink schedule in advance for departure times, as the last trains leave down-
Photo courtesy of Schnucks Markets
Living It
CommUNITY Pride at 45
“I didn’t lose weight to fit a beauty standard. I did it because I love myself and I want to feel my best.”
- Lizzo on maintaining her healthy diet
Restrictions.”
LGBTQIA+ parade and festival powered through without legacy sponsor
By Zaria Mac
The St. Louis American
When Pride St. Louis lost the sponsorship of Anheuser-Busch ahead of its 45th anniversary presentation, the organization gained a $150,000 deficit. They carried on, and adopted the notion that “canceling PrideFest is not an option.” Out of the loss came an opportunity for patrons to get involved and have a sense of ownership. Pride St. Louis President Marty Zuniga and board members created the 45for45 Fundraising.
Every person that donated $45 or more received a commemorative anniversary lapel pin to proudly display their support for the community and St. Louis’ signature Pride event.
Support came in droves from LGBTQIA+ community members, allies, and local businesses. The 45th anniversary celebration went off without a hitch this weekend. Donations secured top acts such as rising duo Flyana Boss and Grammy nominated singer and actress
Jordin Sparks –who closed day one of the festival.
“I asked you for your help, and when I did you stood up to help us,” said President Zuniga before the concert. He
n “Pride has happened this year because of our Community. That’s what happens when we come together as a unifying group no matter how we identify, or who we love.”
- Pridefest host Desiree Declyne
then directed attention to the tall scrims that lined the sides of the stage. “I want you to look at that very top logo.” He pointed out a bold arch in black with the words “Community Pride” in the middle with a rainbow of people underneath.
“That logo is representative of you, the community,” he continued, “This is your pride, this is your celebration, and going forward your logo will be at the top of these scrims if I have anything to do with it,” he declared.
“Pride has happened this year because of our Community,” added Pridefest host Desiree Declyne, “That’s what happens when we come together as a unifying group no matter how we identify or who we love.”
Immediately following their address, Flyana Boss took the stage. The two friends who decided they wanted to become stars while working at a dispensary. They began to make catchy tracks like “See Sumn,” which they performed at Pride. They danced around the stage in white cropped jerseys with an exaggerated pink ruffle trim on the bottom. They created a party with “yeaaa”, “Miss Me” and “Mango Bananas.” The
See Pride, C3
Black pride 365
6th Annual WerQfest makes space for queer talent
By Kenya Vaughn The St. Louis American
The fact that WerQfest, a musical experience that celebrates Black queer culture, takes place two weeks after Pride month ended is intentional.
“It’s a continuation of pride in a sense” said Tre’von Griffith, WerQfest co-founder. “It’s kind of like with Black History Month – we celebrate in February, but we are Black 365 days a year.”
What makes Griffith and fellow WerQfest co-founder Shelton BoydGriffith most proud is that they are making space for the Black queer community – and showcasing the root of its influence on mainstream culture.
“It’s basically a big, Black queer family reunion with joy, with fun and great entertainment,” Griffith said. “It really is just a great night of us celebrating us.”
Starting at 5 p.m. on Saturday, July
12, WerQfest will bring creatives from the St. Louis community and the national scene to Atomic by Jamo.
“Six years ago, we never imagined WerQfest would grow into something that resonates with audiences nationwide,” Griffith said. “In times like these,
‘Iyanu’ is number one
‘Iyanu,’ the acclaimed animated series produced by Lion Forge Entertainment has enjoyed impressive ratings in the U.S. and across Africa. The series was recently renewed for a second season in the U.S. and debuted in the UK on July 3.
Series produced by Lion Forge Entertainment leads ratings across U.S. and Africa
By Kenya Vaughn The St. Louis American
A week before its U.S. premiere on the Cartoon Network, “Iyanu” creator and showrunner Roye Okupe referred to himself as “the luckiest guy in the world.” The gratitude stemmed from being able to have an animated series reflect his African roots – and have it produced by one of the world’s leading Blackowned animation studios, Lion Forge Entertainment.
Upon its releases on Max and Cartoon Network in April, “Iyanu” ranked as the number one kids series on Cartoon Network and a Top 10 Kids & Family series on Max. The success led Cartoon Network and Max to greenlight season two – and two feature films.
R&B singer and Broadway star Avery Wilson will headline the 6th Annual WerQfest, which happens at 5 p.m. on Saturday, July 12 at Atomic by Jamo.
Two months later, Okupe’s “Iyanu” blessings continue. Released across 44 countries in Africa on June 13, “Iyanu” surpassed international children’s series “Knuckles” among youth viewership. In doing so, the series became the top-rated children’s show in Africa, less than a week after its premiere on Showmax.
“Iyanu’ is a story deeply rooted in Yoruba history, culture, and mythology— and that cultural authenticity is something we’re incredibly proud of,” said Okupe, who also serves as an executive producer. “But as I always say, ‘Iyanu’ is for everyone – kids, adults, and families from all walks of life.”
it’s more important than ever to keep creating spaces where Black queer joy and truth can thrive unapologetically.”
A local music spotlight will feature Golliday, Soumir, DJ Naybahood, Anansi
Photo courtesy of WerQfest See WerQfest, C3
The 10-episode series, adapted from Roye Okupe’s acclaimed graphic novel series Iyanu: Child of Wonder is set in Elu, the last surviving city in a magical version of Yorubaland. Against this backdrop, Iyanu – a young orphan living in isolation with her guardian Olori – embarks on a quest to uncover her origins and harness the magical powers that mark her as The Chosen. Over the course of the season, Iyanu activates her divine powers and is relentless in her efforts to save her community.
Two years, five continents, hundreds of people working thousands of hours was what it took to bring Okupe’s graphic novel series “Iyanu: Child of Wonder” from the page to the screen.
“Iyanu” features an all-Nigerian voice cast, including Okey Jude, Samuel Kugbiyi, Blossom Chukwujekwu, Stella Damasus, Shaffy Bello, and more.
“I grew up watching cartoons and even now as an adult I love watching cartoons,” said Serah Johnson, who voices Iyanu. “But I never got to see people like See Iyanu, C3
Photo by Taylor Marrie/St. Louis American
Jordin Sparks took the stage and performed several of her old hits and songs from her new album “No
CONCERTS
July 12, 5 p.m., 6th annual WerQfest, headlined by R&B vocalist and Broadway star Avery Wilson. The STLmade lineup includes Golliday, Soumir, DJ Naybahood, Anansi Spins, S.A.Y., MASC_ ERROR, and Strawberry Bounce, plus resident DJ, DJ PBNJEFFY, Atomic Pavilion by Jamo, 4140 Manchester Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110.
Fri., Jul. 18, DJ Jazzy Jeff with DJ Mahf Presented by Jamo x MATI Festive and Conference, Atomic Pavilion, 4140 Manchester Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110. For more information, visit https://www.thegrovestl. com.
Fri., Jul. 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.
Thurs., Aug. 7, 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
SPECIAL EVENTS
Thurs., Jul 3-4, 4 p.m.
Celebrate St. Louis, Gateway Arch, 11 N Fourth St, St. Louis, MO 63102. For more information, visit https://www.celebratesaintlouis.org.
Fri., Jul. 4, 5 p.m. Fourth
STL Sites & Sounds
of July Freedom Festival, Kirkwood Park, 111 S Geyer Rd, Kirkwood, MO 63122. For more information, https://www.kirkwoodmo.org.
Sat., July 5, 11 a.m., The Coalition Launches All Boots on the Ground Canvassing & Insurance Claim Hub for Tornado Relief, The Ville and Greater Ville Neighborhood Canvassing and Crown Food Mart Parking Lot – Stationary Insurance Claim Hub, 4608 Dr. Martin Luther King Dr., St. Louis, MO 63113. The Insurance Claim Hub will be stationed in the heart of the Ville neighborhood, while door-to-door canvassing will cover both the Ville and Greater Ville neighborhoods to ensure full outreach coverage. For more information, visit https://bit.ly/ TheCoalitionFacebookPage
Sat., Jul. 12, 8 p.m. Movie Night By iFX, The Improve Shop, 3960 Chouteau Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110. For more information, visit https://theimprovshop.com.
COMEDY
Thur., Jul. 3-6, 7 p.m. Special Event: Rodney Perry, Helium Comedy Club, 1151 St. Louis Galleria St, St. Louis, MO 63117. Various showtimes available. For more information, visit https://st-louis.heliumcomedy. com.
Thurs., Jul. 10, 7 p.m Special Event: Jalen Hinton, 1151 St. Louis Galleria St, St. Louis, MO 63117. For more information https://st-louis.heliumcomedy. com.
THEATRE
Through July 2, 8:15 p.m. The Muny presents Come From Away, The Muny, #1 Theatre Drive, St. Louis, MO 63112. For more information, visit https:// muny.org.
Thurs., July 3, 7:30 p.m.
This Will Be: The Spirit and Soul of Natalie Cole featuring Kimmie Kidd, Christina Yancy and Dereis Lambert, Blue Strawberry, 364 Boyle Ave. St. Louis, MO 63108. For more information, visit https:// bluestrawberrystl.com/.
Sat., July 12, 4 p.m., A Great Gospel Musical Volume One: The Book of Joel, Grandel Theatre, 3610 Grandel Square. For more information, visit www.jpek.org.
Sun., Jul. 6-14, 8:15 p.m. The Muny presents Disney’s Frozen, The Muny, 1 Theatre Drive St. Louis, MO 63112. https://muny.org.
ART
Through Jul. 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.
ST. LOUIS MUSIC SPOTLIGHT
Thur. Jul 3, 7:30 p.m. This Will Be: The Spirit and Soul of Natalie, Blue Strawberry, 364 N Boyle, St. Louis, MO 63108. For more information, visit https://
Fri., Jul. 11-12, 7 p.m. Special Event: George Wallace, Helium Comedy Club, 1151 St. Louis Galleria St, St. Louis, MO 63117. Various showtimes available. For more information, visit https://st-louis.heliumcomedy. com
bluestrawberrystl.com.
Fri., Jul. 11, 9 p.m. Rents Due, Atomic by Jamo, 4140 Manchester Ave St. Louis, MO 63110. For more information, visit https://www.ticketweb.com.
Fri., Jul. 11, 8 p.m. Po. Mia with Hodge + Francis Roman, The Dark Room, 3610 Grandel Sq, St. Louis, MO 63103. For more information, visit https:// kranzbergartsfoundation.org.
Through Jul. 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/.
Comedian, actor and media personality George Wallace will be headlining Helium Comedy club for a two-night, four-show special engagement. See COMEDY for more details.
Photo by Taylor Marrie/St. Louis American
The 45th anniversary of Pridefest went off without a hitch this weekend, and support came in droves from LGBTQIA+ community members, allies, and local businesses.
beamed brightly as he rapped T-Pain’s verse on “Forever,” another track from her new album.
Continued from C1
crowd danced along, bouncing left to right in unison and flapping their fans to the beat. Then they gave nostalgic Cheetah Girls vibes with their new single “[c-word expletive].” They finished with “You Wish,” the song that launched them into the public sphere.
Jordin Sparks took the stage in a big center part curly ponytail with jewels lined from her temple to crown. She also wore a jersey, which was stoned in shades of pink with black and white stripes down the arms. She gave a performance of her old hits and songs from her new album “No Restrictions.”
Among her new music was “Where There’s Smoke…” Sparks and four high-energy back up dancers grooved to the track that was an intersection of 80s Funk and 2010s pop. She also performed the albums namesake “No Restrictions.” She sensually played with her hair as she sang the song. She shared that the song was written with her husband Dana Isaiah in mind. Isaiah came out to join Sparks on stage. He danced alongside her and
WerQfest
Continued from C1
Spins, S.A.Y., MASC_ ERROR, and Strawberry Bounce. Resident DJ, DJ PBNJEFFY will bring signature sounds all day long.
“WerQfest has always been about giving our community a shining night to revel in our own creativity and culture,” Boyd-Griffith said. “Every year, we raise the bar for how we celebrate our stories, our artistry, and each other.”
These artists embody WerQfest’s mission to uplift Black queer artistry from St. Louis and beyond.
The 2025 headliner is R&B singer and Broadway star Avery Wilson. He was seen most recent-
She paid homage to one of her “divas” with a tribute to the late Whitney Huston. Sparks, who co-starred with Houston in the remake of “Sparkle” sang “I Wanna Dance with Somebody.” She whirled around the stage and down the catwalk into the audience before a stream of colorful confetti gently fell over the crowd at the song’s climax. Sparks dipped into her own crates with “One Step at a Time” and “Battlefield.” Her voice was just as clear as when she originally released them. She performed “No Air” entirely a cappella. The vocal mastery she displayed created an eruption from the audience.
Pride 45 excitement continued into day two with the Grand Pride Parade proceeding down Market from 10th to 15th street. It began with the St. Louis Fire Department carrying a U.S., Missouri and St. Louis flag followed by BandTogether, St. Louis’ LGBT+ Band and Color Guard since 1997. Members twirled pink metallic flags backed by a full band that played Missouri native pop star Chappell Roan’s “Pink
ly in the latest revival of “The Wiz,” in which he was a co-star alongside Deborah Cox and Wayne Brady. He’s not a household name quite yet, but his incredible vocal skills will make him one soon enough.
In 2023, they welcomed R&B vocalist Durand Bernarr – which was his first festival headlining gig.
“I really want WerQfest to become a place of discovery,” Griffith said.
“It started off as a passion project and it really turned from that into a whole movement. I’m just so excited that the community has rallied behind it.”
As far as queer culture’s contributions to the arts, Griffith says, “we’ve always been here.” And everybody knows it to be true. From the
Pony Club” as they marched down the street.
This year’s parade sponsor Vivent Health offered an extravagant presentation. An HIV medical care provider for more than 40 years, they brought out big red letters to spell the organization’s name. These letters led the charge – which were followed by drag queens, families, and community members who carried a large rainbow parachute that resembled a wave as it rippled in the wind. Their procession ended with a pickup truck wrapped in the organization’s banner topped with a dramatic rainbow balloon display that resembled fireworks.
The Pride STL 2025 Royal Court was also a parade main attraction. Each member rode on top of their own convertible in shades of blue. Vanessa Frost, who was crowned 2025 Ms. Pride, ended the convoy wearing a baby blue beaded and sequined lace gown waving an American flag that faded into the LGBTQIA+ flag.
Despite the loss of a historic sponsor, organizers, Zuniga, the Pride St. Louis board and volunteers came together with members of the community, local business, and allies once again presented a festival where love, strength
fashion, to the slang to the artistry – and everywhere else.
“Sometimes you can’t wait for other people outside of the community to see us and celebrate us,” Griffith said. “We have to see ourselves first. It is a shame that it takes us to do it for ourselves. But sometimes that’s just what you have to do – and people will catch on later.”
The 6th Annual WerQfest will take place at 5 p.m. on Saturday, July 12 at Atomic by Jamo and includes several attractions leading up to the main event – and an afterparty. For tickets, additional information or a full schedule of events, visit www.instagram.com/ werqfestl
Iyanu
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me – with our food and our culture and wearing our kinds of clothes. Being the voice behind that is so surreal. I get goosebumps just talking about it.”
The show is gearing up for its UK release on July 3 through ITVX.
“I can’t wait for audiences in the UK to experience the magic and wonder of ‘Iyanu,” Okupe said. “A series that’s already capturing hearts around the world.”
“Iyanu” is also executive produced by David Steward II, Stephanie Sperber, Kirsten Newlands and Matt Heath of Lion Forge Entertainment, Roye Okupe of YouNeek Studios, Erica Dupuis of Impact X Capital, Ryan Haidarian of Forefront Media Group and Doug Schwalbe of Superprod.
“This premiere marks a major step in the franchise’s global journey and ITV has been an incredible partner in helping us bring this culturally rich,
action-packed story to even more viewers,” said Lion Forge Entertainment Founder and CEO David Steward II. “We’re confident ‘Iyanu’ will connect deeply with UK audiences
looking for bold, original storytelling.”
For more information on “Iyanu,” visit www. iyanutheseries.com.
iBrain Technologies, an IT Consulting Services Firm in Chesterfield, MO seeks professionals:
• Software Developer with MS degree in Comp. Sci., Info. Tech. or Bus. Intellig. & Analytics. plus completed college coursework in Introduction to Data Mining; Web Analytics; Python Programming; Con & Pract of DSS Modeling; Analytics w/ Machine Learning; Data Warehousing and Data Mining. Ref# IT-2025-001
• Software Developer with MS degree in Comp. Sci. or Info. Tech. plus completed college coursework in Data Structures; Data Mining; Artificial Intelligence; Big Data Analytics; Machine Learning; Network Security. Ref# IT-2025-002
• Software Developer with MS degree in Comp. Sci., Info. Tech. or Mgmt Info. Sys. plus completed college coursework in Info Tech Proj Mgmt; Applied Business Analytics SAS; C PRG. & Data Structures; UNIX and Shell Programming; Object Oriented Analysis and Design. Ref# IT-2025-003
Must be willing to work at unanticipated worksite locations for all positions. Telecommuting permissible. The positions do not require travel in order to perform the duties of the position. Resumes to: Recruiting, iBrain Technologies, Inc., 1018 Wilmas Hollow Drive, Chesterfield, MO 63005 or ibjobs@ibrain-tech.com
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
RESIDENTIAL REDEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY
The Land Clearance for Redevelopment Authority of the County of St. Louis (“LCRA”) requests proposals to purchase and complete a residential redevelopment of the property located at the 6300 block of Wagner Avenue in the City of Wellston, St. Louis County, Missouri 63133. The property contains approximately 2.8 acres on either side of Wagner Avenue, consisting of more than 20 residential lots. Further information, including the complete RFP and informational packet, is available at https://stlpartnership.com/rfp-rfq/ or upon request at LCRA’s offices. Proposals must be received no later than 3 PM CT on Monday, August 4, 2025.
Vizva Tech Solutions, LLC, an IT Consulting Services Firm in Chesterfield, MO seeks professionals:
• Software Developer with MS degree in Comp. Sci., Info. Tech. or Elec. Eng. plus completed college coursework in Computer-Aided Analysis/ Design; Database Systems; Neural Network/Fuzzy Logic Sys; Management Science; Computer Networks; Computer Architecture & Organization. Ref# IT-2025-001
• Software Developer with MS degree in Comp. Sci. or Info. Tech. plus completed college coursework in Adv Prog & Data Str; Image Processing; Data Visualization; Linux Programming; Database Management Systems; Java Programming. Ref# IT-2025-002
Must be willing to work at unanticipated worksite locations for all positions. Telecommuting permissible. The position does not require travel in order to perform the duties of the position. Resumes to: Recruiting, Vizva Tech Solutions, LLC., 1018 Wilmas Hollow Drive, Chesterfield, MO 63005 or vijobs@vizva-tech.com
litem training as required by the Supreme Court of Missouri. Note: This position is subject to continued availability of funding.
To apply, please send a current resume, along with a cover letter, to SLCCourtJobs@courts.mo.gov or to the following address (application materials must be postmarked by July 30, 2025): Family Court of St. Louis County, Attn: Human Resources Department, 105 S. Central Ave., Clayton, MO 63105. EOE. Please contact the Human Resources Department at 615-4471 (voice) or RelayMo 711 or 800-735-2966 if you need any accommodations in the application process, or if you would like this posting in an alternative form.
DATA ENGINEER
World Wide Technology Holding Company, LLC has openings for Data Engineer rspnsbl to cllbrt w/ a multi-dsclpnry team of sltn archtcts, engnrs & data scntsts on a wide range of bsnss prblms. Req Mstrs deg. In cmptr scnc, infrmtn systms, or a rltd acdmc fld, + 2 yrs. of exp as a data engnr or in any occptn in which the exprnc was gained. This pstn is 100% rmte and can be prfrmd from any home office in the US. The pstn rprts to hdqrtrs in Mrylnd Heights, MO. Send resume to Adam.Crider@wwt.com reference ID No. WWT-116
INVITATION TO BIDS
Sealed bids for the University City (hereinafter “Owner”) Pershing Avenue Sidewalk Improvements, STP-5402(620) (hereinafter “Project”) will be received by University City City Hall, 6801 Delmar Boulevard, University City, Missouri 63040, until 10:00 a.m. local time, on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at which time the bids will be publicly opened and read aloud. The Scope of Work includes street improvements to Pershing Avenue within University City and provides for pavement preparation, asphalt overlay, concrete sidewalks, curb and gutter, driveway approaches, pavement striping, traffic control and other incidental items and work described in the Project Manual, or reasonably inferable therefrom. University City anticipates issuing notice to proceed in the late summer/early fall of 2025. To ensure that you receive all addenda, request the bid documents by email from Becky Toney at btoney@cochraneng.com. Bid packages will be distributed electronically at no cost to the bidder. When requesting the documents, you will be required to provide your company name, a contact person and phone number, a complete company address and an e-mail address to be added to the Plan Holders List and for receiving official bidding communications and addenda. If you are not on the Plan Holders List, you will not receive any addenda issued. Hard copies will not be available for purchase. Bidders may make printed copies of the bid documents (plans, project manual, and a bid packet) at their own expense.Project and bidding questions shall be conducted exclusively via e-mail. Any questions regarding this project must be submitted to: mspalding@cochraneng.com, by 4:00 pm local time on July 29, 2025. No written questions after this date or any verbal questions will be recognized. A bid security in the amount of five percent (5%) of the bid amount must accompany each bid, in accordance with the Instructions to Bidders. For a contractor to be awarded this project the contractor must have a fully responsive contractor questionnaire on file with the Missouri Highway and Transportation Commission at least 7 days prior to the bid opening date. All bidders must be on MoDOT’s Qualified Contractor List per Section 102.2 of the 2024 Missouri Standard Specifications for Highway Construction. The wage rates applicable to this project have been predetermined as required by law and are set forth in this specification. When Federal wage rates are applicable and included, this contract is subject to the “Work Hours Act of 1962”, (P.L. 87-581: 76 Stat. 357) and implementing regulations. When state and federal wage rates are both required the higher of the two for each job classification shall be used. Effective January 1, 2009 and pursuant to RSMo 285.530 (1), No business entity or employer shall knowingly employ, hire for employment, or continue to employ an unauthorized alien to perform work within the state of Missouri. The successful bidder must submit a sworn affidavit and documentation affirming the business entity’s
NORMANDY SCHOOLS
COLLABORATIVE
NORMANDY HIGH SCHOOL
VIKING HALL AND ATHLETIC FIELD IMPROVEMENTS
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
Normandy Schools Collaborative (NSC) will be accepting sealed bids from qualified bidding General Contractors (GC) for the construction improvements for the Viking Hall and Athletic Field concession stands, restrooms and miscellaneous improvements including HVAC, Plumbing and Electrical work at the Normandy High School. The entire bid package is available electronically by contacting TR,i Architects via email at dave.yancik@triarchitects.com or karen. huntington@kai-db.com. Estimated Construction Value is $600,500.00. The project includes Business and Workforce Diversity Goals. An additional mandatory Pre-Bid Informational Meeting will be held Tuesday, July 8, 2025 @ 2:00 pm. (CST). At this meeting, subcontractors, suppliers and vendors will receive project information and meet the qualified bidding GC’s. Only qualified bidding GC’s are eligible to submit bids. All subcontractors, suppliers and vendors are eligible to submit proposals to qualified bidding GC’s. To download the entire Advertisement for Bid please visit the listed Plan Rooms or contact Dave Yancik with TR,i Architects at dave.yancik@triarchitects.com or Karen Huntington with KAI at karen.huntington@ kai-db.com
CITY OF ST. LOUIS
BOARD OF PUBLIC SERVICE
REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS FOR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES FOR CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT AT RISK FOR CONSOLIDATED TERMINAL PROGRAM GARAGE AND ROADWAYS AT ST. LOUIS LAMBERT
Statements of Qualifications due by 5:00 PM CT, JULY 15, 2025 through the Bid Express online portal at https://www.bidexpress.com/ businesses/20618/home?a gency=true. RFQ may be obtained from BPS website https://www.stlouis-mo.gov/ government/departments/ public-service/bps-onlineplan-room.cfm under On Line Plan Room-Plan Room, or call Board of Public Service at 314-589-6214.
REQUEST FOR PUBLIC COMMENT/NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING
East-West Gateway Council of Governments (EWG) is inviting public review and comment on the draft of its updated FY 2026-2029 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). Bi-state area residents will have the opportunity to engage with this important regional planning document by visiting designated information hubs across the St. Louis region or by attending four in-person meetings. The draft TIP is organized by county and includes detailed maps, project statuses, and funding information. The TIP outlines planned or active state and federal transportation projects throughout the region over the next four years. These projects, including roads, bridges, transit, and supporting infrastructure, are aligned with the region’s Long-Range Transportation Plan, also produced by EWG.
The public comment period begins Friday, 6/27/25, and ends Friday, 8/1/25. The draft TIP will also be posted online for comment at www. ewgateway.org on 06/27/25. Residents are encouraged to provide feedback by completing a short comment form available on the website, at each information hub, or during scheduled public meetings. Completed forms can be submitted in a drop box on site or by scanning a QR code to access the online form, by email to TIP@ewgateway.org, or by mail to East-West Gateway Council of Governments, Attn: TIP, 1 S. Memorial Drive, Ste. 1600, St. Louis, MO 63102. Public input is a vital part of the regional planning process, helping ensure that transportation investments reflect the needs and priorities of local communities. Throughout the comment period, EWG staff will answer questions on the document. Comments or questions must be received or postmarked by midnight, Friday, 8/1/25.
The public is invited to view these documents and supporting materials at a series of open house meetings. Dates and locations are listed below.
• Thursday, 7/10/25 – Online chat, 12:00 p.m., check EWG’s website for further details.
• Wednesday, 7/16/25 – Arnold Rec Center- 1695 Missouri State Rd, Arnold, MO 63010, 4:30-6:30 p.m.
• Thursday, 7/17/25 – East St. Louis City Hall- 301 River Park Dr., East St. Louis, IL 62201, 4:00-6:00 p.m.
• Wednesday, 7/23/25 – St. Peters Rec-Plex- 5200 Mexico Rd, St. Peters, MO 63376, 4:30-6:30 p.m.
• Thursday, 7/24/25 – St. Louis City Public Library Divoll Branch4234 N Grand Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63107, 4:30 – 5:45 p.m.
Information Hubs are accessible public locations where TIP materials are available for review and comment on a walk-in basis during regular business hours. Comment forms will be provided for residents to share their thoughts and QR codes linked to the Public Comment webpage will offer additional information and opportunity to engage. Information Hubs are located at the following sites:
• Belleville City Hall- 101 S Illinois St., Belleville, IL 62220
• Chesterfield City Hall- 690 Chesterfield Pkwy W, Chesterfield, MO 63107
• Edwardsville City Hall- 118 Hillsboro Ave, Edwardsville, IL 62025
• Festus City Hall- 711 W Main St., Festus, MO 63028
• Florissant Community Center- 1 James J Eagan Dr., Florissant, MO 63031
• Olivette City Hall- 1140 Dielman Rd. Olivette, MO 63132
• Pacific City Hall- 300 N Hoven Dr., Pacific, MO 63069
• St. Louis City Library Main Branch- 1301 Olive St., St. Louis, MO 63103
• Webster Groves Library- 301 E Lockwood Ave., Webster Groves, MO 63119
• Wentzville City Hall- 1001 Schroeder Creek Blvd, Wentzville, MO 63385
EWG is committed to ensuring that all meetings are both ADA and LEP accessible. To request a reasonable accommodation for the open house meetings please contact EWG’s Title VI Coordinator at least 48 business hours prior to an open house meeting at (314) 421-4220 or (618) 274-2750 or titlevi@ewgateway.org
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.
SEALED BIDS
Bids for REBID Replace Fire Alarm Panels - Multiple Assets, Project No. C232501 will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, 7/31/25. Project information available at: http:// oa.mo.gov/ facilities
SEALED BIDS
Bids for Replace Flooring & Renovate Front Entrance, Missouri Geological Survey –Buehler Building, Rolla, Missouri Project No. W2303-01 will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, July 31, 2025. Project information available at: http://oa.mo. gov/facilities
SEALED BIDS
Bids for Fire Sprinkler System Upgrade; Higginsville Habilitation Center; Higginsville, MO, Project No. M2405-01 will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, August 7, 2025. Project information available at: http://oa.mo. gov/facilities
Sealed bids for the NFL Fund Subdivision Program, Package 1 project, St. Louis County Project No. CR-1908, will be received electronically thru the County’s Vendor Self Service portal at: https:// stlouiscountymov endors. munisselfservice.com/ Vendors/default.aspx, until 2:00 PM on August 6, 2025
Plans and specifications will be available on June 30, 2025 from the St. Louis County Web Site (www.stlouiscountymo.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/
AmberStones at Old North is now leasing beautiful, affordable apartment homes in the heart of North St. Louis! This newly renovated community offers spacious 2, 3, 4, and 5-bedroom units for families who qualify under the Section 8 Project-Based Housing program.
At AmberStones, rent is based on 30% of your household income, making it a great opportunity for families in need of high-quality, income-based housing. Our homes are designed with comfort and community in mind, offering modern layouts and access to nearby schools, public transportation, and local services.
Don’t miss your chance to live in a vibrant, supportive neighborhood that puts you first. AmberStones at Old North is committed to providing safe, affordable, and welcoming homes to families in St. Louis.
For leasing information and eligibility requirements, contact Property Manager Celzy Dunn at (314) 574-3583. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
Apply today and make AmberStones at Old North your new home!
Religion
Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Day of Service on July 3 in Richmond, Va.
By Dorothy S. Boulware
Word In Black
Ten thousand American Muslims will gather in Richmond, Virginia, on Thursday July 3, for an annual convention.
But they’ll also be engaged in service by tending to a neglected cemetery where African American graves have been forgotten and overgrown.
Indeed, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community will spend the morning before their 75th annual convention cleaning headstones and clearing brush from graves in East End Cemetery that have received little care or funding, in stark contrast to the well-maintained section where white Americans were historically buried.
“It’s a cemetery that’s been pretty much run over, hasn’t been cared for, doesn’t really get funding,” Harris Zafar, national spokesperson for the community, tells Word In Black. The service effort, in partnership with Friends of East End, is a continuation of the restoration work begun last year.
Ahmadiyya Movement in Islam
Offers America,” emphasizes how faith drives service to others, with sessions exploring topics, including Islam and modern capitalism, civic service, and spiritual leadership.
The convention, the longest-running annual Muslim gathering in the United States, brings together members from the community’s 65 chapters nationwide.
Along with the July 3 Day of Service, the gathering will examine topics including: • Islam and Modern Capitalism — exploring economic justice and ethical equity
• The Giving Hand — understanding how Islam inspires civic service
• The Role of Khilafat-eAhmadiyya — examining spiritual leadership and global Muslim unity
“The event will bring together American Muslims of all backgrounds, alongside faith leaders, civic officials, academics and community members, in a spirit of dialogue and unity,” according to Zafar.
to compassion, civic duty, and patriotism.”
The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, which has 25,000 to 30,000 members in the United States, operates under centralized leadership with a Khalifa based in the United Kingdom. Harris describes the community as “the oldest, or at least one of the oldest, Muslim communities in America,” having recently celebrated its 100-year anniversary.
“We partner with the host city of our convention,” he says, and are “working with several organizations to explore the needs of Richmond.”
An estimated 15,000 African Americans are buried at the cemetery, which Zafar says was “not kept at all. And so, we spent time, we toiled and sweated a lot in the heat,” to restore it.
The cemetery restoration is part of the community’s annual “Jalsa Cares” day of service that precedes their Jalsa Salana convention at the Greater Richmond Convention Center.
This year’s convention theme, “The Giving Hand: What the
Beyond cemetery restoration, volunteers will also clean debris along the James River and work with local organizations, including the American Red Cross, RVA Community Fridges, and the Fonticello Community Food Forest, to address food insecurity.
“This is no ordinary gathering,” says Amjad Mahmood Khan, national secretary of public affairs.
“It’s a demonstration of how Islam in America is deeply tied
And restoring the cemetery is certainly needed. Last year’s restoration effort revealed “some beautiful headstones, some broken headstones, and people who’ve been forgotten,” Zafar said.
“It’s a kind of preserving history, giving respect back to those who have died.”
The clergy and ICE Amid ongoing immigration
crackdowns by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, and faith leaders of every denomination are calling for action.
On June 8, the 47th president federalized the California National Guard to quell protests against ICE raids, over the objection of Governor Gavin Newsom. The agency has detained individuals outside of churches, courthouses and schools, due to a January 21 directive by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), allowing ICE to enter what it calls “sensitive areas.”
The AFRO spoke with Reverend James Tait, pastor of the Village Church in Washington, D.C. about the duty of faith leaders when it comes to protecting immigrants at risk. Tait has been a member of the strategy team for the Washington Interfaith Network (WIN) for seven years.
Tait said that when cruelty masquerades as policy, faith organizations in the WIN must stand with immigrants and “lift
What End? Rethinking Equity, Health, and Human Flourishing
KIMBROUGH Chairman and CEO, Midwest BankCentre
As a Commissioner with the National Academy of Medicine, I’m often asked to examine problems through a systems lens — how they work, who they serve, where they break. But no matter the complexity, I find myself returning to one clarifying question: To what end?
It doesn’t ask what we believe — it asks what we’re building. And in a time of cultural division, fractured narratives, and social fatigue, that question is more important than ever.
Shared Goals, Splintered Language
Most of us want the same things: meaningful work, good health, safe neighborhoods. These are not partisan values. They are human ones. But too often, our language works against us. Words like equity, access, diversity —though rooted in justice — can feel divisive. For some, they inspire action. For others, they signal exclusion. Not because the ideas are flawed, but because we’ve stopped meeting in the middle.
We need a smarter message. One that invites, not indicts. One that aligns people around outcomes instead of dividing them with labels.
Health: The Front Door to Productivity Health is a critical factor in economic strength, community resilience, and long-term prosperity. If people are healthy, they can work. If they can work, they can earn. If they can earn, they can provide, invest, and contribute.
We need to reframe the conversation — with health as the fuel for everything we care about: business vitality, educational attainment, family stability, and national productivity.
Clarity Over Complexity
Volunteers are working in Richmond, Va., to clear brush and debris from the thousands of African American gravesites in East End Cemetery. They will be joined by hundreds of members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community during a Day of Service on July 3, 2025.
our voices in holy protest.”
“We say unequivocally that no child should be snatched from their mothers’ arms in the name of national security,” Tait told Ali Halloum of The Afro.
“The Washington Interfaith Network stands in solidarity with immigrant communities across the country, from east of the river in D.C. to Central California’s migrant camps.” According to Tait, WIN is a “power building” organization that represents 45 churches, mosques, synagogues, community organizations and labor unions in the District.
He said that as an African American clergyman, he is especially aware of the “dangerous dance” between racism and immigration policy in the United States, noting the similarities between ICE’s “surveillance and criminalization of immigrants” as part of the same system that is over-policing Black communities and “chokes justice at every turn.”
Increase the number of healthy, productive earners. Not just workers — earners. People who thrive and ripple out impact in their communities. People who are supported, equipped, and positioned to participate in society. When that’s the goal, everything else finds synergy. Health initiatives become workforce strategies. Education becomes economic development. That clarity builds coalitions, invites unlikely allies, bypasses rhetoric in favor of results.
A Note on Framing — and Courage
None of this means we avoid difficult truths. Equity still matters. Disparities still exist. But if we want lasting progress, we must speak in a language that moves people — not just those who agree with us.
Equity should not be a trigger word or a wedge. It should be a tool for alignment — grounded in clarity, framed by purpose. This isn’t abandoning values. It’s delivering them more effectively. There is power in being the voice that rises above noise to say, “Let’s focus on what we can build together.” What Brings Us Together
People are tired of being pushed into corners. They want purpose, not polarity. They need a focal point that transcends political shorthand and speaks to everyday concerns.
This is a call to realignment — to focus on building more earners. If your mission doesn’t lead to human flourishing, reexamine it. Because we don’t move society forward by being louder. We move it by being clearer, more courageous, and more connected.
The Invitation If you’re in business, government, philanthropy, education, or simply care about the future, ask yourself: Are we building systems that help people thrive as earners? Are we focused on outcomes that bring people together? Are we framing our messages to invite collaboration?
We don’t need more policy. We need more clarity of purpose. Imagine if every nonprofit, business, government agency, and community group aligned around one measurable outcome:
Health isn’t just a moral imperative. It’s a strategic one. And equity isn’t just about fairness. It’s about the alignment required to unlock human potential.
So let’s speak wisely. Act boldly. Aim for outcomes that make progress. Let’s keep asking: To what end? To
Photo courtesy of East End Cemetery
ORVIN T.