June 14th, 2012 Edition

Lewis Hamilton leads Formula One standings

British-born race car driver Lewis Hamilton celebrates after winning the Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal. See B3

MSD to receive ‘Community Benefits Agreement’

NAACPwants contractual guarantees to inclusion, apprenticeships

By Rebecca S.Rivas Of The St.Louis American

The Metropolitan Sewer District’s $1.6 billion construction and maintenance project – the first phase in the district’s $4.7billion system overhaul – will create more than 25,500 jobs over the next four years, according to an MSD-commissioned impact study.

College Bound graduates first college cohort

‘This program should be available for everybody’

By Rebecca S.Rivas Of The St.Louis American

One adult with a college degree can end the cycle of generational poverty in a family forever. However, fewer than nine percent of students from lowincome backgrounds receive their bachelor’s degree by age 24.

Ayriel Hadley graduated from Saint Louis University this May, and she is the first in her family to graduate from college. She said she wouldn’t have been able to navigate the college process without six years of support from local nonprofit College Bound, founded in 2006.

“The whole college process and the friendships I’ve built through College Bound, they have been important in my life and development,” Hadley said. “Without that,

But will those jobs go to low-income families who will see their sewer bills double in the next four years because of the project?

“Where the jobs come from is a question that has been unanswered,” said Don Phares, professor emeritus of economics and public policy at University of Missouri–St. Louis. Tonight at the MSD Board of Trustees

meeting, the St. Louis City NAACPwill propose a plan to ensure job training, education and employment for unemployed, low-income minorities and women.

“It is essential that the economic opportunitiesbe quantifiedandwe measure how effective MSD is in delivering the benefitsto the disenfranchised,” said

“The Community Benefits Agreement we propose isenforceable through injunctive relief, thus giving the communitythe ability to ensure that benefits are actually delivered.”

– Adolphus Pruitt,NAACP

Like father, like daughter

Tishaura

and Virvus Jones are a family that campaigns together

By Chris King Of The St.Louis American

Tishaura O. Jones has been seeing a great deal of her father approaching Father’s Day 2012. She is on the August 7 primary ballot for Treasurer of the City of St. Louis, and her dad –former city Comptroller Virvus Jones – is managing her campaign.

“He has run successful citywide campaigns, and he ran both my successful campaigns for state representative,” Tishaura said. “There was no other choice.”

Market ownertargeted forcampaign support

Senate staffer denies he threatened legal action if Nasheed sign wasn’t taken down

By

“I definitely am cut from the cloth of diversity and inclusion and that kind of politics.”

– Tishaura O.Jones

Jones was elected to represent the 63rd District in the Missouri House of Representatives in 2008 and reelected in 2010, then selected by her fellow Democrats as

shows John Bowman, legislative staff for 5th District state Senator Robin Wright-Jones, showing paperwork to Alaa Akaana, who was clerking the market counter, at approximately 1:50 p.m. on Saturday, June 9.

Bowman is wearing a golf shirt with the State of Missouri seal.

“He had a badge on his shirt.” Akaana said. “Not a badge, but the badge was part of the shirt.”

Akaana told The American that the man with the official “badge” sewn on his shirt, which Bowman admits was him, showed him some official paperwork. The paperwork stated that

Assistant Minority House Leader. She became the first African American and the first female in Missouri history to hold this position.

“I felt like I had a finger on the pulse of everything going on in the Legislature,” she said. “I attended daily meetings where we reviewed everything going on from a legislative standpoint and met regularly with the Governor’s Office.” In both the historic leadership position and her absorption in policy, Tishaura follows in her

See JONES, A7

for 5th

state

See MSD, A6

Chris King Of The St.Louis American

Jamilah Nasheed is off the ballot in the Missouri Senate’s 5th District race in the city of St. Louis,

Former St.Louis Comptroller Virvus Jones is managing his daughter Tishaura O. Jones’campaign for Treasurer of the City of St.Louis. She is on the August 7 primary ballot.

John Bowman, legislative staff

District

Senator Robin Wright-Jones, approaching a clerk at Salama Market,1525 Choteau, regarding a Jamilah Nasheed campaign sign on Saturday.

Image provided by Salama Market

Ayriel Hadley

Photo by Peter Wochniak

Photo by Wiley Price

Shaunie O’Neal ready to hang it up

In a recent interview with The Insider, Shaunie O’Neal was surprisingly candid about her disdain for the monster she created through Basketball Wives.

“Honesty, I don’t want to go back,” says the ex-wife of basketball superstar Shaquille O’Neal about the controversial, hit VH1 show that she produces. “I have no problem walking away from the franchise.I won’t take responsibility for what it has turned into.”

O’Neal says she is worried about getting physically hurt, and sick of the drama and of taking the blame, as she’s been widely criticized for not doing enough to stop the outrageous behavior.

The show’s executive producer said that changes need to be made to the cast, and that means ejecting a few from “the

game.”

“Three [from Miami],” says O’Neal. “Immediately. No questions asked. Not anything personal, just not where I’m trying to go. Not on the same page. … If I would like this franchise to keep going, yeah, three would have to go.”

Kenya Moore caught with ‘Real Housewives’

“Real Housewives of Atlanta” fans may have to wait until the new season begins to find out for sure of rumored newcomer Kenya Moore is really on the cast.

NeNe has reportedly been denying Moore’s presence because she’s sided with “Team Kandi Burruss, Kim Zolciak and Phaedra Parks).

Last month, NeNe told Wendy Williams that she hadn’t even met Moore yet.

“I don’t know where all those rumors came from,” NeNe said on the show. “I haven’t seen her.”

Moore was recently photographed with the shorter ladies of the crew at last week’s Neiman Marcus tea party. NeNe was there, and allegedly so were the reality show’s cameras. Also, allegedly Moore is already on “Team Talls” bad side after allegedly rubbing Cynthia Bailey the wrong way at a Bailey Agency event.

Kimye forever?

Kanye West thinks he’s found “The One” in Kim Kardashian. West, 35, is keen on marrying the twice-wed reality star, a source close to West recently told Us Weekly. “They’re seriously talking marriage – and yes, she would [accept his proposal].”

But tying the knot isn’t the only thing on the 18-time Grammy Award winner’s mind. “Kanye says he can’t wait to see her carrying his child,” a source revealed. “He says she will look beautiful pregnant.”

Friends for years, West patiently pursued Kardashian through her makeups and breakups until they began dating earlier this spring. “He waited for Kim,” the West associate told Us. “He knows they’re meant to be.”

Mayweather wants his freedom

he says the lock up is taking a toll on his body and he’s unable to train at a competitive level.

His doctor even expressed concern about his withering appearance and inappropriate diet. The doc says it could cause “irreversible damage to Mr. Mayweather’s physique.”

The boxer believes that he only has about two years left in his boxing career so every minute lost is a minute lost in the ring.

Daughter claims Creflo Dollar is repeat offender

Mega Church Pastor Creflo Dollar was arrested last week for allegedly slapping, punching and choking his 15 year old daughter during an argument over whether or not she could attend a party. In the 911 call that followed, the daughter is heard telling the dispatcher this is not the first

It’s only been two weeks since his life behind bars began, but Floyd Mayweather Jr. is already worried he won’t be able to bounce back from this part of his life to save his career.

Mayweather states in new legal documents that he thinks his 3-month sentence could have a detrimental effect on his life as a boxer. He’s asking the judge to allow him to serve his time on house arrest instead.

According to the documents, he spends 23 hours a day in isolation for his own safety. But

Better Family Life goes ‘Back to the Basics’

Melba Moore, Francella

Jackson co-chair

Family Week

August 4–11

American staff

Better Family Life, Inc.

will host Family Week 2012 August 4–11. The theme for this year’s festival is “Back to the Basics: Faith Family and Neighborhood.”

This theme was chosen after looking at the current social, political, economic and education realities facing the African-American community and America as a whole.

“Over the past 27 years, Family Week has been crafted to meet the needs of families from throughout the St. Louis metropolitan area,” said Malik Ahmed, founder, president and CEO of Better Family Life, Inc.

“Out of that vision, Family Week reaches thousands of families spanning Belleville, E. St. Louis, St. Louis City, St. Louis County and St. Charles County, making it a significant event.”

Ahmed thanked the 2012 Host Committee for their dedication, with a special thanks to the 2012 Co-Chairs

Melba Moore and Francella Jackson.

“These two ladies are responsible for providing resources to families in St. Louis City and East St. Louis, respectively. Because of their efforts, the needs of our challenged neighborhoods are being met, even in the face of massive budget cuts,” Ahmed said.

“In the tradition and legacy

of African-American women, the elegant and graceful women are able to make a little go a long way, and maintain a strong spirit and integrity. We are blessed to have them playing an active role this year.”

Melba Moore, Commissioner, City of St. Louis Health Department, reflected on the theme for Family Week, “Faith, Family, and Neighborhood.” Moore said, “Let us take this time to enjoy the festivities, celebrate our love for our family and stay faithful in achieving healthy and safe neighborhoods!”

Francella Jackson, Director, Community Programming, East St. Louis, said Family Week is needed now.

“Family Week is important because we’re living in a

downward-spiraling society, where family members are too busy doing everything else, except caring for one another,” Jackson said.

“Today’s families are totally dysfunctional. They are killing one another, sexual abuse is rampant, drugs and gangs have taken a grip on our neighborhoods. We must begin to provide the educational, cultural, economical and professional support that our children and adults need to succeed.”

Family Week 2012 festivities include:

* Kick-Off Reception, Wednesday, August 1, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., at City Hall

Downtown

* Metropolitan Professional Networking Expo, Chair, St. Louis City License Collector, Michael McMillan, August 9

Striver pushes blood drive

Charles Drew Blood Drive

June 23

American staff

In nearly every way, Isaac Singleton, 18, is a typical 2012 graduate from Metro Academic and Classical High School. He loves hanging out with friends, hip-hop music and basketball. He’s looking for a summer job, has an active social life, and is going to college in the fall.

At St. Louis University, he will major in political science. His life and his plans are like so many of his classmates.

Yet, unlike his fellow graduates, Singleton suffers from sickle cell disease, an inherited blood disorder. Without a monthly blood transfusion, he is at risk for stroke or worse – death.

Isaac Singleton, 18, is an American Red Cross volunteer who works to encourage blood donations in

fullest,” he said.

* PeaceFest 2012 August 12 at St. Vincent Park, featuring live entertainment with a musical tribute to Don King and Dick Clark., Who’s Who in St. Louis Softball Classic, St. Louis Kick-Ball Challenge, food, vendors, play area for kids and a cool water park.

The St. Louis Metropolitan Area Amnesty Project returns to offer relief to individuals with outstanding misdemeanor warrants. In the past this groundbreaking program was limited to traffic warrants; now, all misdemeanor warrants are covered. In 2011 close to 14,000 warrants were lifted in the 40-plus participating municipalities from throughout the St. Louis metropolitan area.

For more information on Family Week, to be a vendor or perform at PeaceFest 2012, call (314) 381-8200.

Born with the disease, Singleton has struggled with the sickle cell since he was an infant. Before his second birthday, he suffered a stroke, and he has received blood transfusions ever since. At least once a month, he spends the better part of a day at Children’s Hospital, where he receives donated red blood cells, his only real therapy for the disease

“The transfusions allow me to live a normal life,” Singleton said.

The transfusions also help prevent “pain episodes.” About once a year, Singleton experiences pain so debilitating, he is hospitalized. Several times a year, the pain is so severe, he misses school.

“Transfusions give me the opportunity to live life to the

That’s why Singleton is an American Red Cross volunteer who works to encourage blood donations in his community. He champions Red Cross Charles Drew blood drives. For years he has been the radio personality and spokesperson for the Annual Charles Drew Blood Drive. The drive is named to honor Charles Drew, the distinguished AfricanAmerican scientist who was a pioneer in the field of blood plasma preservation and storage.

On Saturday, June 23, The American Red Cross is sponsoring the 13th Annual Charles Drew Commemorative Blood Drive from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Omega Center, 3900 Goodfellow. All who attempt to donate will receive a Rock-n-Roll T-shirt and will be eligible to win a Gibson guitar. To schedule an appointment, call 1-800-RED-CROSS (733-2767).

Melba Moore

Francella Jackson

his community

Photo by Wiley Price

Editorial /CommEntary

Tough love for Father’s Day

With Father’s Day approaching this weekend, we find it appropriate to report in this week’s paper Better Family Life’s plans for its 2012 Family Week and College Bound’s celebration of its first cohort of college graduates. Both of these St. Louis organizations lead major ongoing efforts toward positive change in our community, which faces so many challenges and disparities – perhaps none more damaging to our overall well being as a people than the absent black father.

The numbers are terrifying. According to an analysis of 2010 U.S. Census data, a stunning 66 percent of black children in the U.S. are growing up in single-parent homes. In Missouri, it’s even worse, with 72 percent (nearly threefourths) of all black Missouri children growing up with only one parent in the home – in nearly every case, with only a mother, not a father. Nationally, this is nearly double the overall number of 34 percent of single-parent homes; in Missouri, it is more than double the overall statewide percentage, also 34 percent. Better Family Life seeks to support and improve our families at all points. The agency does offer marriage planning and family counseling, but it’s work is more holistic and foundational than merely talking through problems. The agency runs productive vocational programs, often in partnership with St. Louis Community College and others. So many of our young men are graduating from high school (or dropping out of it) with inadequate skills, and we badly need agencies to do the remedial work necessary to make these young men – some of whom are already fathers – employable.

College Bound is doing similar remedial training, but for students rather than workers. Founder Lisa Zarin tells us she wants “to bring the privileges that kids from high-income backgrounds have to kids from low-income neighborhoods.” Typical of College Bound’s students is Tanner Senter, who graduated from Lake Forest College in May – the first college graduate in his family. “My father has been absent in my life,” he told our reporter. “You hear about it on TV – a young black man without a father goes and becomes a criminal.” Instead, this young black man became a college graduate.

We applaud the efforts of these organizations to fill the void of our fractured families, and we can name many others, including Fathers Support Center, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Boy Scouts, the Boys & Girls clubs, and the United Way (which funds so many of them). At the same time, we must not let structural challenges

Happy

Father’s Day!

excuse us from personal responsibility. This is where our clergy – and, really, all of us –need to step forward and show some tough love to the boys and men in our community. There are too many people we know stepping out for “Grown but Sexy” nights at the club when they should be at home with their sons and daughters, overseeing their homework and simply paying positive attention to them. Ayriel Hadley said of College Bound, “Self-esteem came through building strong relationships with basically adult strangers. It was a highly supportive environment. Even when you failed, they acknowledged that it occurred and it doesn’t have to occur again.” We find it both moving that “adult strangers” are willing to dedicate their time to supporting our children – and disturbing that our children need them. It’s time to tell all of the absent and inadequate fathers in our community that failure as a father doesn’t have to occur again. It’s time to make connecting with your children and committing to their future your highest priority. Happy Father’s Day.

COMMENTARY

Obama’s accomplishments for Black America

It’s easy to sit back and criticize. Pretty much anyone, anywhere with access to a computer can spew his/her thoughts on the day’s issues, or worse yet, create hysteria where none exists. When it comes to this president, we’ve watched an unfair number of attacks launched against him from the moment he decided to run for office and throughout his time at the helm. But while vitriol from the right is expected, it’s the petty denigration from supposed progressives and those seeking to make a name for themselves that is the most troubling and disappointing.

The latest installment: a piece titled “Still Waiting For Our First Black President.” I can’t think of anything more insulting.

In 2008, we made history. Traditionally marginalized groups stood in line for hours in many cases just to cast a vote and participate in the process. And yes, we elected our first African-American President. For people to claim that President Obama’s dedication to the Black community is somehow in question is not only an affront to our Commander-in-Chief’s personal integrity, but also an outright misrepresentation for what he has achieved.

Despite facing consistent hurdles virtually every step of the way – including conservative members of the House that have attempted

to halt his every move – the President has created immense change, much to the benefit of the Black community. It’s time we start recognizing it.

Inheriting some of the worst conditions since the Great Depression, President Obama’s commitment to passing a stimulus package did in fact avert further financial catastrophe as many economists have highlighted. As the first in the line of fire, people of color were and are directly impacted by his efforts to salvage jobs, housing and this economy.

While many, like current Republican frontrunner Mitt Romney, would have liked to see Detroit go bankrupt, the president insisted on saving the auto industry, once called “an engine for the African-American middle class.” Today, Detroit is seeing a resurgence, and GM and Chrysler are making record profits while hiring thousands of new workers across the country – many of them African-American.

President Obama’s signature legislation, healthcare reform, was the first successful step in rectifying our fractured system. Creating drastic change that will allow millions of uninsured to receive health coverage (including some 7 million African Americans) the president not only understands the importance of establishing change within health care, but he has ardently fought opposition every step of the way. Even at the possible cost of his own re-election, President Obama has remained steadfast in his resolve to reform health care. Let’s not forget all the town hall interruptions, the yelling, the obstruction, the Tea Party and now the Supreme Court that

How will we educate for tomorrow?

A society that fails to invest in education fails to invest in its future. With the closing of the Imagine schools, the verdict being in on the Turner case and the reaccreditation process taking place in public schools, we must ask ourselves how will we choose to educate for tomorrow.

Will we continue to subsidize the privatization of education with public funds without attacking the underlying issues behind underperforming schools? Or will we do what is right for St. Louis and invest in public education.

Since the people we train today become the workforce for tomorrow, we must choose to invest in community-based schools, free pre-Kindergarten for all starting at age three and technology-based youth programs now, in order to have a competitive workforce for tomorrow’s jobs.

Although the reasons for poor student performance are complex, there are some research-based strategies which have been successful in improving student learning.

For example, communitybased schools are a solution that aims to provide stability

outside of the classroom.

Community-based schools provide programs and services from universities, businesses, city and state agencies all under the same roof. Programs and services are geared to help students and families with the greatest needs. A typical community school could stay open through the evening hours for extra tutoring and recreational activities for students in a safe environment.

Community partners will offer wrap-around services such as counseling programs, social services, health and dental care. All these efforts focus on the students’ stability outside the classroom, which is necessary for them to be most productive in the classroom. The research is in on the economic benefits of investing in preschool for children starting at age three conducted by both private and federal researchers. Money spent on early childhood education quadruples the benefits of money spent on adult job training programs and far outpaces investments in high school or college. Every dollar we invest in pre-Kindergarten starting at age three returns seven dollars or more back to the community. Programs that have a high impact and return to the community must be enacted if we want long-term improvement. Technology-based youth

Letters to the editor

A few Pre-K facts

It is widely recognized that an investment in early childhood education gives taxpayers the biggest bang for the buck. The Federal Reserve now estimates that for every $1 dollar invested in high quality Pre-K the community sees a $16 rate of return.

may in fact strike down all of the President’s work to assist Americans unable to pay for health coverage.

Attempts to argue that the President has done little to nothing with regards to the criminal justice system are unfounded. Recognizing the unjust sentencing disparity between crack cocaine and powder cocaine possession, the President signed the Fair Sentencing Act that for the first time altered this unjust racial discrepancy. As studies show, Whites, who were more likely to be arrested on powder cocaine offenses, received much lighter sentences, while Blacks received mandatory tough sentences for crack cocaine offenses.

Reducing this blatant disparity between crack and powder cocaine possession from a 100-to-1 ratio to 18-to1, the President is the first to pass this sort of legislation that directly acknowledges and challenges inequities within the justice system.

For years, black farmers in this country have voiced concern over unjust loan practices and discriminatory acts that robbed them of both land and farming opportunities. A collective of these farmers sued the USDA, and it was the Obama Administration that settled this litigation, known as Pigford II. Signing a bill awarding more than one billion dollars in funding to Black farmers discriminated against by the USDA, the President once again made a bold move that his predecessors failed to do.

Rev. Al Sharpton is president of the National Action Network and an MSNBC host.

Reprinted from The Grio.

Now some voices in the media are looking for controversy where there shouldn’t be any. Local parents and educators were surprised to hear the headlines on Channel 4 promoting a front-page article in the Post-Dispatch regarding early childhood education expansion in the City of St. Louis.

“St. Louis preschool boom has fallout” misses three inconvenient facts regarding the expansion.

One, our children are not radioactive “fallout” from a “boom.” The expansion of early childhood education seats in the City of St. Louis is one of the more positive narratives in public education in the state. It is a wise investment and deserves praise.

A second point – there is no shortage of children. The AFT (American Federation of Teachers) first examined data before advocating with Dr. Kelvin Adams and the Special Advisory Board for Pre-K expansion in the St. Louis Public Schools. We are very pleased to be a partner in the expansion and in targeted professional development.

We looked at census data, childcare enrollment, Head Start enrollment and Pre-K enrollment. We found that the population of live births in the City of St. Louis was nearly consistent year to year and that 56 percent of three- and fouryear-olds were not attending any of the aforementioned options. The majority of children in the City of St. Louis were not registered in any early childhood opportunity. There is no shortage of children to fill early childhood seats.

A third point is that recent polls show that voters support voluntary Pre-K at much higher levels than tax-credit scholarship “vouchers” and expanded charter schools. This was demonstrated again when city voters

programs are essential for us to create a tech-savvy workforce for tomorrow. The benefits of teaching our young people how to build websites, mobile applications and software programs are two-fold. First, these skills will give our youth the ability to attain passive income from application sales or work in development jobs, both of which create new income opportunities currently not available. And second, the development of a tech-savvy workforce of young people will drive tech businesses to open offices or even headquarters in St. Louis, creating jobs and adding to our tax base. We can prepare our workforce for the jobs of tomorrow, but it will take bold community action and a paradigm change. We must invest in our future because a failure to invest is a failure to make things better for our children as our parents have done for us. It’s not going to be easy or happen overnight. But if we attack the instability outside the classroom, start educating our children sooner and begin to teach for tomorrow, we can secure a bright future where St. Louis is the shining star of urban economic development. Samuel J. Cummings III is a candidate for State Representative in Missouri’s 78th District.

overwhelmingly approved Proposition S dollars (a bond issue that won with 76 percent of the vote) that were used in combination with desegregation suit settlement funds that the plaintiffs released for specific, targeted purposes including expansion of quality pre-K. No booms, no fallout just fact. More children attending school is a good thing and it is good for the community. The next legislative session would be a good time to address fully funding education so we can keep moving forward.

Byron Clemens Pre-K Project Organizer AFT St. Louis Innovation Fund

Accurate census specifics

I am a longtime reader of the Political EYE, though I disagree with it fairly often.

At least The American offers detailed coverage of local political issues not found elsewhere in St. Louis, even if one needs a grain of salt with the editorial “nitty gritty.”

In the May 24 EYE, you discussed recent Young Dem endorsements and referred to the City of St. Louis as one that is “some 55 percent AfricanAmerican.” According to the most recent (2010) official census, the City of St. Louis for the first time in its history has neither a white nor a black majority.

I would have thought you would find that newsworthy. Of its total population of 319,294 people, the City is currently 49 percent black and 43 percent white, with other census groups composing the remaining 8 percent. It is the very picture of diversity, with no total majority racial population. Ten years before, the same census found that the City had a black majority of 51.2 percent, which has now fallen slightly to its current total due in part to ongoing shifts in north city, where some wards lost more than one-fourth of their population between 2000 and 2010. Losses were much smaller in south city wards and downtown/central corridor wards posted population gains.

Census specifics might

not give the most meaningful picture of a city, but they are interesting and worth citing accurately.

Christian S. Saller St. Louis

Guest Columnist Samuel J. Cummings III

Teen Library Award deadline

July 31

The St. Louis County Library Foundation is seeking applicants for the third annual Sidney Johnson Learning Award. Those eligible are teens aged 12-18 who live in the St. Louis County Library District and have demonstrated outstanding service to the library. The application deadline is Tuesday, July 31. The winner will receive a $1,000 savings bond and an invitation to attend the Library Foundation’s Starcatchers Gala on Saturday, September 22, where he/she will be presented with the award.

The award will be given to one teen, age 12-18, who lives in the St. Louis County Library District and fulfills one or more of the following: employed at St. Louis County Library; a teen library volunteer; or Teen Advisory Group member.

Aprintable copy of the award application and instructions can be found online at www.slcl.org/teens. For more information please call 314 994-3300.

Bach Society

Chorus auditions

Auditions for the Bach Society Chorus will be held by appointment on Monday evenings, June 25 and August 13. Openings currently exist in all voice parts for both volunteer members and paid principal singers. An accompanist is provided for the 15-minute audition. Prospective members are expected to be experienced in choral singing, reading music, and singing in Latin and German. Abackground in instrumental music and private voice study is desirable.

Highlights for the 72nd concert season include Bach’s “Magnificat,” Rachmaninoff’s “Divine Liturgy,” and Carl Orff’s “Carmina Burana,” performed with the Nashville Ballet. Concert venues include Powell Hall, Touhill Performing Arts Center, College Church and St. Stanislaus Kostka Church.

Complete audition information is available at www.bachsociety.org. To schedule an audition, call the Bach Society office at 314-652-BACH (2224).

Brothers on the job to get a job

Congressional District Career Fair,where more than 5,000 job seekers met with representatives from more than 100 of the area’s top employers.

Ferg-FlorSchools recognized nationally

The Ferguson-Florissant School District has garnered praise from SchoolMatch, a national school selection consulting firm that ranks how well K-12 schools meet the needs of families choosing schools.

The Columbus, Ohio-based firm rates school systems in a national percentile format, making it possible for comparisons by parents, homebuyers, corporate leaders, policymakers, educators or realtors using its services.

The Ferguson-Florissant School District maintains a nationally-recognized Early Education program, award-winning Positive Behavior Support schools and approximately 85 percent of its students graduate from high school.

Located in suburban St. Louis, the Ferguson-Florissant School District is one of only 29 Missouri school districts to receive the 21st annual What Parents Want Award.

According to SchoolMatch, only 16 percent of the nation’s public school districts meet parents’expectations.

North County Community Festival

The City of Black Jack , the St. Louis County Police Department , Cars 4 Kids, and Majic 104.9FM will present the North County Community Festival at Jamestown Mall on Saturday, June 23, 2012 from 4-9 p.m.

The event will feature free inflatable rides for the kids, as well as a car show. Majic will be on site from 6-8 p.m. handing out free food to the first 200 people. There will be music and entertainment on the main stage all day long with dignitary ceremonies taking place at 6:30 p.m. The fireworks display will begin at sunset.

The event is free to the public. Everyone is invited. For further information, contact Randy Gardner at 314-355-0400 ext. 120.

Taking care of business

By Lydia Douglas For The St.Louis American

I would like to share my experience with you regarding the importance of having a pre-paid funeral plan.

I lost my husband on September 30, 2007, and his service was held on October 5, 2007. Losing my husband was a very painful and hurtful feeling. He was not sick, he was still working, so I had no forewarning at all.

Having our business in order helped to easy any confusion that I could have experienced, because I did have everything organized and in decent order.

God gave me a plan about eight years ago. I had to incorporate it in our monthly budget. I made some sacrifices, but I did it. I did not know that I would be using it as soon as I did. I thought my kids would use it later down the road for my husband or me. I am so grateful that God saw enough love and favor in me and told me what to do, and I am more grateful that I was obedient.

For the sake of knowledge and the experience that I have gone through, I hope you will give some thought to getting the business of your life or your family’s life together. Too many times we falter in the business matters of our lives.

The importance of our lives should include the preparation, accumulation of documentation of all pertinent information warranted in case a severe illness strikes and you or your family needs to be admitted to a nursing home or hospitalized for an extended period of time. Or if the ultimate death occurs.

This information should include insurance policies, computer passwords, the location of keys to security boxes, your last will and testament, insurance polices, all that is important. All of this should include a pre-paid plan.

I am a witness that it does take a lot of pressure from you. The one that is left has to live, and you will not have to depend on anyone else to help you take care of your business. I have been told that my family has insurance but the insurance company does not write the check the next day, your and your family’s life has to go on.

When God gave me the mission to get my business in order, He did not tell me my husband’s death was right around the corner. We do not know when that time of our life will end, so take time to get all aspects in order. The plan will include the casket, limousine, church service and burial service.

With the plan, you are required to make monthly payments until it is paid in full. You do not have to pay it all at once.

I put all of this information in a book titled: Taking Care Of Business What Family Members Need To Know The book is in local stores as well as Barnes and Noble Book Store and also on my website, www.booksbylydia.com.

Lydia Douglas

Tayon Moody and Brandon Moody talked with Macy’s Administrative Support Team Supervisor Shannon Douglass during Congressman Wm.Lacy Clay’s recent 1st

Photo by Wiley Price

Continued from A1

Nasheed has been taken off the ballot.

Akaana said Bowman told him that he and the company that owns the market would be sued if they did not take down the Nasheed campaign sign prominently displayed on their fence facing Choteau.

Bowman denied this claim. “I passed on information,” he told The American. “I didn’t threaten anyone. I know how these people are, so I only went in with the information. I was very friendly.”

Akaana said he told Bowman he was not the boss but would give the paperwork to his boss. When he gave the paperwork to his boss, Akram Salama, Salama took down the campaign sign.

“We took it down,” Salama told The American When Nasheed heard of the incident, she explained to a partner in the family business, Muhammad Salama, that they were not breaking the law by displaying her campaign sign –and, in fact, the person who threatened that his company would be sued if they did not take down the sign may have broken the law.

“I don’t know anything about the law,” Muhammad

MSD

Continued from A1

Adolphus Pruitt, president of the St. Louis city NAACP. In the June 5 election, St. Louis County and City residents voted 85 percent in favor of the $945 million bond issue, which will allow MSD to fix the system’s environmental hazards and raise sewer bills gradually.

Salama said. “Jamilah told me this man did not have the right to do that.”

ASt. Louis police detective interviewed Nasheed on Tuesday. By then, her campaign sign had been returned to the fence at the market.

“I did not know that he was a false – whatever,” Akram Salama said of Bowman. Asked if he threatened anyone at the market or told them to take down their sign, Bowman said, “No, no, no, no, no, no. I haven’t done anything wrong. If they say I did, I’ll have my lawyer respond to that.”

The 5th Senatorial District race will in effect be decided in the Democratic primary on August 7. Nasheed is fighting to be reinstated on the ballot, claiming that the Missouri Constitution establishes the right for her to run in the district, where she does not live, because her current district was redrawn following the 2010 Census.

Jeanette Mott Oxford, who is termed out as a state representative, also has filed in the 5th District. Informed of the incident at the market, Mott Oxford – a veteran progressive battler in the Legislature – said she has been ignoring the distractions caused by her opponents to raise funds and knock doors.

With the bond issue’s approval, residents will see their wastewater bills increase monthly from $28 to $43 by July 1, 2015. The higher rates will adversely affect lower-income families, unless MSD offsets the costs through subsidies, Phares said. Construction jobs tend to pay about 1.4 times more than the average medium-low paying job, he said. Creating employment opportunities among low-income families would be another way to indirectly take the pressure off the cost increase, he said. The $945 million bond goes towards the first phase of the district’s mandated $4.7-billion overhaul. In June 2007, the State of Missouri and the

United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) filed a lawsuit against MSD – in part because untreated sewage was flowing into the Mississippi River. In August 2011, the EPAannounced a settlement agreement that calls for MSD to spend $4.7 billion over the next 23 years to eradicate over 350 sewer overflows.

NAACP’s Community Benefits Agreement

The $945 million in construction alone will generate more than 17,000 jobs and

boost the local economy by nearly $2.2 billion over the next four years, according to the MSD-commissioned study completed by Jack Strauss, chair of economics and director at the Simon Center for Regional Economics at Saint Louis University in April 2012.

For the past several months, the NAACPhas worked with MSD to come up with a way to ensure that residents will not be paying higher rates without seeing the benefits of upcoming job opportunities. On June 14, the NAACPwill present a proposed Community Benefits Agreement with 10 principal terms.

“It incorporates living wage law requirements, first-source hiring and a strong MBE/WBE business support program that addresses the most significant impediment for M/WBEs’ growth – bonding and access to capital,” Pruitt said.

The NAACPpartially modeled the agreement after the program that Los Angeles International Airport created in 2006 during its large-scale expansion. The agreement’s guiding points came out of MSD’s ongoing stakeholders meetings, which the district has held for a year.

With the downturn in the economy, apprenticeship programs have become almost obsolete in the construction industry – making it nearly

impossible for young African Americans and minorities to obtain employment in these fields. The proposed agreement includes a provision for MSD to fund pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship programs. On top of that, MSD must also require general contractors, suppliers and other project vendors to commit by contract to hire people from the apprenticeship programs and from the “target community” (local, unemployed, low income, minorities and women).

The agreement would also allow MSD to use union and non-union workers on the project and to implement longterm contracting goals for minority- and women-owned businesses.

The proposed agreement would obligate MSD to establish an internship program at MSD facilities for public school students. The internship would be similar to a STEM program (science, technology, engineering and math) and give hiring preference to participants. An MSD-funded scholarship program would also be a part of this program.

MSD’s EPAreviews would be open to community groups through the agreement.

And most powerfully, the agreement would have the judicial teeth of enforcement through injunction or otherwise. From suppliers to architects, every entity involved in

this project will have a contractual relationship with MSD with private enforcement rights, Pruitt said.

“The Community Benefits Agreement we propose is enforceable through injunctive relief, thus giving the communitythe ability to ensure that benefits are actually delivered,” Pruitt said. “In exchange,we are prepared to agree to support the project through the approval process, to refrain from lobbying against it, and release legal claims regarding the project. Each party can enforce the other side’s promises.”

Disparity study

MSD’s disparity study is fully underway. MSD will introduce local businesses to the process and provide an overview for the purpose of this study at one of three community meetings. Ameeting will be held on Thursday, June 21 at 6 p.m. at St. Louis Community College’s William J. Harrison Education Center, 3140 Cass Ave. Two meetings will be held on June 22 at 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. at the same location. To learn more about the study and to pre-register for the meeting, contact Mason Tillman Associates, Ltd. at 754-9674 or e-mail ltran@mtaltd.com.

Akram Salama,co-owner of Salama Market,1525 Choteau,says he took down a Jamilah Nasheed campaign sign when John Bowman,legislative staff for state Senator Robin Wright-Jones,came into the store and told him he would face legal action for displaying the sign.Bowman claims he merely went into the store to inform the owners Nasheed has been struck from the August 7 ballot,pending an appeal.

Photo by Lawrence Bryant

JONES

Continued from A1

father’s footsteps.

Though not the first African American to serve as Comptroller of the City of St. Louis, Virvus Jones was the most visible and impactful person of any background to hold that position. He set the standard for elected officials fighting for minority inclusion in contracting and workforce. His fiscal prudence resulted in upgrades in the city’s credit rating, and his then-controversial stands against a generous pension package for firefighters and imprudent, one-sided deal with the St. Louis Rams for its football facility have left him looking very wise in the 21st century. His oldest daughter, born in 1972, watched his every move as she was growing up. “I definitely am cut from the cloth of diversity and inclusion and that kind of politics,” Tishaura said. “I saw my dad challenge the status quo on awarding contracts and fight to bring in more minority businesses on all levels of key projects during his tenure as Comptroller.”

Not only did his politics rub

COLLEGE

Continued from A1

I’d either be working at a chain restaurant or worse. In my environment, there are a lot of ways to make money, but they aren’t all legal and that’s the sad truth.”

On June 9, Hadley and 35 other students of the College Bound’s first college graduating class celebrated together at Cap & Gown Ball at the Hyatt Regency downtown. These students come from lowincome backgrounds and lacked the support they needed to navigate the college process. “I had been looking forward

off on her, but also her college major of finance, which prepared her well for her run for Treasurer.

“My dad exposed me to career fields I’d never have thought about, like investment banking,” Tishaura said. “I met powerful black men and women in investment banking coming into St. Louis to do business with the city when my father was Comptroller.”

The impact of his leadership spanned far beyond his own family. “I often meet people who say, ‘Your father gave me a chance when no other person or municipality would,’” Tishaura said.

Her colleague in the State House, state Rep. Sylvester Taylor, is one of many examples.

“Sylvester said, ‘Tishaura, I love your father. He gave me a chance,’” she said. “Sylvester was an electrician trying to get into an apprentice program at the same time the stadium conversation was going on, and they called him. He said they wouldn’t have called otherwise.”

‘The next generation fearless’

Virvus said he is “almost overwhelmed” to observe how

to it for weeks,” said Hadley, who was also the keynote speaker. “It was better than my high school prom.”

When Lisa Zarin founded the organization in 2006, she had just gone through the college application process with her own son. Her son had one counselor to every 20 students, and getting the paperwork together still felt overwhelming, she said. Counselors serving low-income neighborhoods often look after 500 students.

“It just kept me up at night,” Zarin said. “So I said I am going to figure out a way to bring the process and the privileges that kids from highincome backgrounds have to kids from low-income neigh-

much his daughter learned from him about politics and policy, but he also made conscious decisions as a father to prepare her for life.

“I was born in a segregated society, and I made it a point to make sure she did not grow up in a segregated society,” Virvus said.

Indeed, Tishaura graduated from Affton High School –hardly a hotbed of black consciousness – then went on to study finance at an HBCU, Hampton University. The diversity of experiences toughened her.

“That’s partly where she gets her fearlessness. She’s not afraid to talk to anybody or challenge anybody,” Virvus said.

“Alot of people who were involved in the Civil Rights Movement wanted to have that happen – we wanted to make the next generation fearless. That’s why we fought segregation. We wanted our children to be able to compete in a society that looked at them as equals.”

He sees the effect of this work in her actions as a legislator.

“Some of the issues Tishaura has taken on, like changing the disparity in crack and cocaine sentencing, fight-

borhoods.”

Today, College Bound is working with 469 students attending 39 local high schools and 70 colleges and universities throughout the country.

Their seven-year program begins at the end of a student’s freshman year of high school and follows them through completion of college.

At the event, several students from the first graduating class shared their stories through a video.

“They always said I was smart, but you just don’t know. You’ve never seen anyone reach that level, so you don’t think that you could,” said Alexis Jamerison in a 2008 interview. She will graduate

ing for affordable health care –these are things she has taken up for people who can’t speak for themselves,” he said.

Virvus’civil rights activism has had a national sweep that came to benefit his daughter.

He ran the caucus in St. Louis for Jesse Jackson’s 1984 presidential campaign; as a result of that relationship, Tishaura was the only candidate for Treasurer invited to Jackson’s recent meeting with black clergy and elected officials in St. Louis.

And then there was the U.S. Senate campaign by a young Illinois state legislator named Barack Obama, where Virvus got involved early as a volunteer fundraiser. Then-Senator Obama remembered this when Tishaura met him at subsequent Democratic National Conventions. He also remembered it when he saw Tishaura most recently at the White House as sitting president.

“The President remembered who my dad was, and it wasn’t in the white paper of who I was,” she said.

Having such a remarkably supportive and nurturing father has been especially crucial to Tishaura, since he is her only living parent. Her mother passed away in November 2000. “She was my rock, and

from Saint Louis University in December.

Nelson Dorvlo graduated from Lake Forest College in May.

“We all came from the same situation but we made it out,” Dorvlo said. “We all had the same dream of being somebody. College Bound brought us together to help us achieve that goal together.”

Tanner Senter, who graduated from Lake Forest College in May, is the first college graduate in his family.

“My father has been absent in my life,” he said. “You hear about it on TV– a young black man without a father goes and becomes a criminal.”

“Every student who has

there isn’t a day that passes where I don’t think of her,”

Tishaura said.

Now the next generation is here in Tishaura’s son and the delight of her grandfather’s life, Aden Jones Jeffries. “My son is now 4 years old, and we’re preparing for him to enter kindergarten in the fall,” Tishaura said. “He’s a smart and energetic young man.”

Aden’s need for an extended family also does much to explain why his mother is leaving a leadership position in

gone through our program, they graduate from high school, and they go on to college,” Zarin said.

This year, College Bound was one of 10 organizations –out of 374 studied – that the Education Policy Institute recognized as a “blueprint of success” for pre-college outreach programs. It was also the youngest organization selected.

Zarin said some students entered the program with a 1.8 GPA.

“These kids showed that if you gave them the resources, knowledge, support and love, they could totally do what they needed to do,” Zarin said.

Hadley said, aside from academics, she learned self-

Jefferson City to run for office in the city where her father lives. But her father’s legacy –and remarkable foresight on issues that still haunt the city –make her a natural campaigner here.

Tishaura said, “I’ve been interviewed by several news outlets about city pensions and the Rams’lease, and I have been able to quote my father. He was right 15 years ago. I have been able to quote the same things he said because I feel the same way he did.”

esteem and trust in people from the program.

“Self-esteem came through building strong relationships with basically adult strangers. We trusted them with personal information. And it was a highly supportive environment. Even when you failed, they acknowledged that it occurred and it doesn’t have to occur again,” Hadley said.

“This program should be available for everybody not just people in St. Louis. It would bring up society. Because with all the outcasts, College Bound picks them up, polishes them up and puts them back in society, and that’s what we need.”

Lynne Jackson the great-great granddaughter of Dred and Harriet Scott,receives a hug from sculptor Harry Weber during a dedication ceremony of a statue of her relatives at the Old Courthouse on June 8.

descendent

Photo by Bill Greenblatt/UPI

Photos by Henry Gray

Demosthenes DuBose

Demosthenes DuBose, born November 24, 1924, was the only son and second child of Wilbert and Pauline DuBose. His parents and two sisters, Deliska Davis and Ione Green, preceded him in death.

Demosthenes was a product of St. Louis Public Schools, and institution where he would ultimately spend most of his career. He attended Crow (now Carver), Marshall and Simmons Elementary Schools and entered the U.S. Army after graduating from Sumner High School in 1943. It should be noted that during Demosthenes’ tour of duty, he and other Negro volunteers were hand selected to act as replacements in units whose ranks had been previously populated by white soldiers. After the war, in 1946, he began his college studies at Lincoln University in Jefferson City, MO, on a basketball scholarship and the G.I. Bill. He was the first person in his family to go to college. He worked various jobs including postal worker, accounting clerk and funeral home director before receiving his bachelor’s degree in education from Harris Teachers College in St. Louis in 1961. He later continued his education at Southern Illinois University in Edwardsville and Saint Louis University, receiving his Master’s degree in education from Washington University in St. Louis.

Demosthenes was united in holy matrimony on April 20, 1952 with his loving and devoted wife, Clastine Alexander DuBose. Together, they raised a son, Leslie Kent duBose, who preceded him in death.

Demosthenes was associated with the St. Louis Public School District for almost 30 years. At the start of his career, he was called once again to lead integration efforts. He was one of the first African-American teachers to work under the desegregation program mandated by the landmark Brown v. the

Board of Education lawsuit. Subsequently, he served as President of the St. Louis Teachers’ Union Local 420 and was Director of Employee Relations for the Board of Education. After his retirement in 1988, he worked part-time as a program aide in the Board of Education’s Partnership Division and as a consultant to the St. Louis Teachers’ Union.

Demosthenes was loved and admired by friends and family alike. He was known as a loyal friend and colleague for his straightforward, yet fair demeanor in dealing with those he encountered and his often dry sense of humor. He served as a mentor and counselor to many during his lifetime. During his later years, he resided at the Missouri Veteran’s Home, where niece Paula Williamson Hill went above and beyond the call of duty to assist his wife in his care.

Demosthenes made his transition from this earthly life on June 5, 2012 at the age of 87. He leaves to mourn: his wife, Clastine; daughterin-law, Sarah; grandchildren, Leslie Jr. (Daron), Derek, John-Paul, Aisha, Taisha, Abigail and Sarah; seven greatgrandchildren, Kahlyn, Edward, Kamal, Joseph, Emerald, Brittany and Clayton; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Joyce Battle

Joyce Elaine Battle, 63, died June 8, 2012. Joyce was born March 2, 1949 to the late Earl V. Graham and the late Dorothy Graham (nee Carroll). Dear mother of Annice, Salina and Montia; grandmother of Joshua, Jamiah, Jordin, Johanna and JaLondon; sister of Joseph Graham, the late Earnest Graham (Levonzell), Henry Graham (Lois), Herman Graham, Yvonne Spearman, the late Montia Graham, Clinton Graham (Susan), Robert Graham, Pearline Seawood (Lee), Andrew Graham and Aaron Graham (Andreana). Joyce obtained her LPN from Forest Park Community

College and her RN from Meramec Community College. She worked as a Registered Nurse at various hospitals and nursing agencies throughout the St. Louis area. She loved her family, especially being “Grandma Joyce”. She loved traveling, music, attending plays and going “on the boat”. A memorial service is scheduled for June 14, 2012 at Berean Seventh Day Adventist Church in St. Louis, MO. Visitation was held on June 13 at Officer Funeral Home Ellis Chapel.

Edward Julius Helenkamp

Mr. Edward Julius Helenkamp fell asleep in death on June 5, 2012 at Belleville Memorial Hospital in Belleville Illinois. He suffered a brief illness. He was a devoted husband, father, stepfather, grandfather, great-grandfather and most of all a devoted and faithful Jehovah’s Witness. He put his full trust in Jehovah. He was a very devoted worker for the United States Postal Service MPO St. Louis, IC Railroad in Illinois, Belleville News Democrat, and the city of St Louis. He received numerous awards on all of his jobs .He was truly loved by all and will be sorely missed He leaves to cherish: his wife, Patricia Helenkamp; one sister, Ms. Marion Helenkamp; five daughters, four sons-in-law; two sons , one daughter-in-law, eight grandchildren, three greatgrandchild, nieces, nephews, and a host of relatives and devoted friends.

Alfred Ray House

Alfred Ray House was born on May 26, 1952 in St. Louis, Missouri. He was the third of four children born to Jessie and Ural House, Sr. Both parents preceded him in death. At an early age, Alfred or “Ray”, as he was known by his family and close friends, was baptized on November 10, 1963 and was a member of Prince of Peace Baptist Church for many years. In addition to participating in activities such as the Boy Scouts and various sports, he also had a beautiful voice and loved to sing at every

opportunity.

Alfred was known for having a passion for mathematics and an inquisitive mind. He grew up in North St. Louis neighborhoods, attended St. Louis Public Schools and graduated in 1970 from Beaumont/O’Fallon Technical High School’s special program in radio and television electronics. Alfred was actively involved in the black awareness movement of the late 60’s, and served as co-founder and president of Beaumont’s Black Student Union. In this role, his leadership skills were unparalleled and laid the foundation for needed change in the St. Louis Public Schools. Alfred received a full scholarship to the University of Missouri at Rolla, majoring in electronic engineering. He continued his study of electronics in the U.S. Navy where he received an honorable discharge in February, 1975. He went on to receive certification as a computer technician from Control Data Institute in St. Louis. In addition Alfred attended Harris Teachers College, majoring in mathematics. He worked and volunteered as a math tutor for many years. He was dedicated to helping young people reach their highest potential. Alfred was a serious music lover and as a writer himself, supported the arts. His desire to help kids and artists will continue through the EllisHouse Farm Project – restoring

the family farm in Kentucky to its heyday as a working farm, to serve as a retreat for urban kids and artists of all ages. An avid reader, Alfred was a faithful Bible-study student and a spiritual seeker. A practicing Christian all his life, still he was open-minded and displayed an affinity with and studied the Rastafarian and Islamic religions. He was formerly a member at Transformation Christian Church, Faith Chapel in Hopkinsville, Kentucky, and attended St. Peter A.M.E. Church faithfully for the past several years, until his failing health made it impossible. Ray left a warmth and a light that will ever glow, he made a difference. A scholar, a leader, a protector, a gentle man who loved and gave to the utmost, went home to be with God on Wednesday, May 30, 2012 at the home of his family, who remain blessed with precious memories. His presence will be deeply missed by his sisters Annie Russell and Marsha (Clement) Cann, brother Ural House, Jr., nephew Michael L. (Stephanie) Russell, nieces Kemba Russell, Angela (Gboyega) Agunan, Wendy (Antonio) Settles; grand nephew Demond Lee, Jr., and grand nieces Lauren Lige’ and Logan Jackson; uncles Leslie (Cornelia) House and Willie Ray House; special cousins Marlene Galbreath, Kimberley Powe and Angelia Doudy; special sister-friends Deborah Jackson, Denise Billings, Carol Bagby; and

many other beloved relatives and friends. There will be a memorial service to celebrate his life at St. Peter A.M.E. Church (4730 Margaretta at Shreve) on Friday, June 22, 2012 at 10 a.m. Immediately following the service there will be a procession to Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery for the Military Honors Ceremony. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Ellis-House Farm Project will be appreciated and may be sent c/o Annie Russell, 1551 Quendo Avenue, University City, MO 63130.

Samuel A. Lee

Samuel A. Lee, a devout believer in God Almighty and his Son, Jesus The Christ; beloved educator and friend; devoted family member and of life, shed mortality for immortality on Sunday, June 3, 2012 at St. Clare Health Center in Fenton, Missouri. Mr. Lee was a retired educator in the University City Public School System in University City, Missouri. He is survived by: three sisters, Mary Lorraine Williams, Louise (John) Neal, both of Philadelphia, PA, and Sherry Downing of Hinesville, GA; two favorite cousins, Willie E. Dennis and Brenda L. Dennis; and a large number of nieces, nephews, love ones, church members and friends.

Attention St. Louis American Readers

community, we

Demosthenes

DuBose

Joyce Battle

Alfred Ray House

South Siders love Jeffrey!

The EYE has often said there are two political parties in the City of St. Louis: black Democrats and white Democrats. Two hot races on the August 7 Democratic primary ballot are shaking up the segregated party and making for some strange bedfellows.

The EYE already has pointed out that the white South Side machine officially lined up with the black incumbent Wm. Lacy Clay over the white challenger Russ Carnahan in Missouri’s 1st Congressional District. Racially polarizing figures like Mayor Francis G. Slay and even Sheriff Jim “Noose” Murphy were driven into Clay’s arms by their respective black challengers, Aldermanic President Lewis Reed and Vernon Betts, a former deputy sheriff who was fired for announcing his plans to run against his boss.

Of course, it helps that this is a primary and Clay is the incumbent and as such due a courtesy endorsement from fellow Democrat officeholders. It also doesn’t hurt that Russ Carnahan is the last, somewhat desperate standard-bearer of a family brand in Missouri Democratic politics that has faded fast after his sister Robin Carnahan’s historic thrashing by Roy Blunt in the 2010 U.S. Senate race and the redistricting of Russ’ former 3rd Congressional District out of existence.

Now you have some of the city’s whitest, most southwestern wards endorsing one of the two black candidates in the crowded City Treasurer primary, where two black candidates (Tishaura O. Jones and Jeffrey Boyd) and two white candidates (Fred Wessels and Brian Wahby) are gearing up to split four ways the microscopic turnout typical in primary elections – notwithstanding the plain

fact (which the voting public never seems to grasp) that city primaries decide the fate of city offices. Democrats in Democratic urban strongholds face only token opposition by Republicans, Libertarians and perennial candidate Bill Haas in general elections, when city people actually vote. The South Side 23rd and 24th Ward Democratic organizations have endorsed Boyd for City Treasurer – an African American, when there are two white men on the ballot. Can this mean the scales of racial thinking have fallen from their eyes? Not likely. Consider the numbers from November 2008, when Barack Obama was elected President. The 23rd Ward – Slay’s original home ward – voted for John McCain/Sarah Palin 36 percent – more than twice the citywide vote for Obama’s Republican challenger, which was 15.5 percent. The 24th Ward was nearly as antiObama, voting for McCain/ Palin 28 percent, more than 10 percent over the citywide tally. The voters in these wards, compared to voters in other parts of the city, did not want a black President, and the EYE is certain they do not intend to vote for a black Treasurer. The EYE hears that the endorsement of Boyd is the result of a split in support for the two white candidates, Wahby and Wessels, among the South Side committeepeople. With their support divided, the EYE is told, the committeepeople decided that the best course of action was to endorse Boyd, the only candidate who has no chance of winning. In essence, they threw away their endorsements since they couldn’t agree on who to give it to. By endorsing Boyd, the South Siders have developed the strategy that if they cannot agree on one of

the white candidates, they will endorse a weak black candidate in the hopes of defeating the stronger black candidate, Tishaura Jones.

Recorder of Deeds and 23rd Ward Committeewoman

Sharon Carpenter and other South Side Democrats have voiced their animosity to Jones, the only true reform candidate for Treasurer. Wahby is a creature of the Treasurer’s Office who is not going to rock the boat unless told to, Wessels is a South Side team player with a long tradition of popping up to give the mayor’s quote in an alderman’s voice and Boyd has long been one of Slay’s rare North Side poodles. Carpenter even had the audacity to question the qualification of Jones, calling her the leastqualified candidate in the race. This is a strange statement from someone who has a reputation of running the Recorder of Deeds Office from home, said about someone (Tishaura) with a finance degree, experience in the banking sector and a major leadership role in the Missouri Legislature.

Still, an endorsement is an endorsement, right? A throwaway endorsement is

better than no endorsement at all? Right?

Maybe not. To date, Boyd has only been able to get the endorsement of one Democratic ward organization on the North Side, his home 22nd Ward, which he represents as Alderman. So the announced support from the 23rd and 24th ward organizations could entice Boyd to spent his time and money on the South Side, where he is being led to believe his votes are. All the EYE can say is: Go for it, Jeffrey! You will succeed where Obama failed! Those white people in those far southwestern wards love you! Just like Mayor Slay loves you!

Jeffrey and Russ

Back in reality, Boyd’s problems garnering support on the North Side caused him to lash out at elected officials who he thinks are not giving him the kind of love he feels he deserves. When he saw the photo of Tishaura Jones with her father Virvus Jones’ longtime friend the Rev. Jesse Jackson, Boyd accused Congressman Clay of

Jeffrey Boyd mugged with former U.S. Senator Jean Carnahan at the campaign kickoff for her son, Russ Carnahan, who has filed against Congressman Wm. Lacy Clay in Missouri’s 1st Congressional District.

case he loses them. The most effective way to motivate them to vote Democrat would be to play the race – or, racist –card in inviting them to help him unseat Missouri’s black political dynasty. And of course, the best way for Russ to wreck his candidacy and his family name would be to play race against Clay.

EYE Drops

favoritism for not inviting him to a meeting that Rev. Jackson called with African-American church leaders to discuss the upcoming elections. When Clay told Boyd that he did not convene the meeting, Boyd responded by threatening to endorse Clay’s opponent, Russ Carnahan.

Boyd’s threat to support Carnahan might be another reason some South Side Democrats are supporting him. If so, Russ probably should not get his hopes up too high either.

In November 2008, these same South Siders had a chance to vote for Russ the same time they had a chance to vote for Obama. Especially in the 23rd Ward, they weren’t so enthusiastic. Carnahan faced a no-name Republican named Chris Sander who took 27 percent of the vote in Slay’s home ward, almost 10 percent higher than the citywide tally of 18 percent for Sander. The 24th Ward also showed slightly higher opposition to Russ, with Sander taking 21 percent of the vote. Russ is in a pickle here.

These South Side voters may well vote in the Republican primary in August, in which

The EYE hears that 2nd Ward Democratic Committeewoman Mattie Moore, who works for U.S. Senator Claire McCaskill, is going to endorse Wahby for Treasurer. Moore reportedly is splitting with 2nd Ward Democratic Committeeman Claude Brown, who has endorsed Tishaura Jones. The EYE wonders if McCaskill knows the political damage to her of her representative’s imprudent endorsement in the hotly contested Treasurer’s race, which goes against the grain of other North Side wards where “anybody but Wahby” is a rallying cry. Moore is related to Democratic operative Steve Chalmers, an employee of the Treasurer’s Office, which may explain the support for Brian “Status Quo” Wahby, a longtime contractor and consultant for the Treasurer’s Office. Chalmers reportedly has been seen chauffeuring Wahby around while on the clock working for the Treasurer. A ghost employee chauffeuring another ghost employee? Spooky!

John Bowman needs to get out of his head a little more. When The American’s managing editor called Bowman for his side of a story that is none too flattering of Bowman (see Page A1), Bowman invented an elaborate chain of cause and effect that (Bowman imagines) has The American supporting Nasheed because of the editor’s personal motives. When the editor told Bowman he didn’t care what Bowman thought of him personally, he was merely doing his job, Bowman said before hanging up the phone, “Then don’t call me again!” That would have been a stinging come back – in middle school!

Photo courtesy of MultiMedia PR News

Confluence Academy graduates first class

Grads earned collective $438K in college scholarships

American staff

When the class of 2012 walked into the brand-new Confluence Preparatory Academy High School three years ago, there was no student government, no varsity teams, no drama club, and no school traditions.

Confluence Prep students had the unique challenge of building their school’s legacy from scratch. From the sports teams, to school dances, activity clubs, and milestone ceremonies, Confluence Prep students and staff worked together to make high school a unique experience.

On May 19, the hard work paid off, as 84 seniors became the inaugural graduates of the public charter high school.

“We’re just thrilled to have our first graduating class. We’re on our way,” says Confluence Academy founder Susan Uchitelle.Emotions ran high as families and teachers watched the graduating class file into their seats in the brand new rooftop gymnasium.

“For many of the families, these students are the first in many years to graduate high school and continue on to college,” said Sonya G. Henry, Confluence Academy Board Chair. “These students have made history.”

Confluence Prep graduates

earned more than $438,000 in scholarships, with 97 percent planning to attend a two- or four-year post-secondary institution and three percent planning to enlist in the U.S. Armed Forces. Students were accepted to more than 20 colleges and universities in and outside of Missouri, including: St. Louis University; University of Missouri – St. Louis and Columbia; Missouri University of Science and Technology; Harris Stowe State University; Robert Morris University; and the Art Institute of Chicago.

“I’m overjoyed to be graduating. I’m happy to have reached this milestone and I just can’t wait to get my life started,” said graduate Brianna Ledbetter, who will major in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the University of Missouri Columbia.

Confluence Academy is a public charter school system that was established in 2003 and serves 3,600 students in grades kindergarten through grade 12. Confluence schools include: K-8 campuses in the South City, Walnut Park and Old North neighborhoods of St. Louis; Confluence Preparatory Academy, its downtown high school, as well as Grand Center Arts Academy. To visit or enroll, call 314-588-8487 or visit www. confluenceacademy.com.

Bryan S. Williams, Malek D. Cunningham, Courtney E. Gibson

Wednesday, June 27

Thursday, June 28

Friday, June 29

Monday, July 2 St. Charles County

Wednesday, July 4 St. Louis City

Thursday, July 5 St. Louis County

Friday, July 6

By Rochelle Caruthers, Romare Bearden Graduate Minority Fellow,

Saint Louis Art

Museum

Celebrating African Americans and the Visual Arts

The visual arts have a long history in the African American community. Because of a lack of options for African American artist to showcase their work, traditionally, African Americans have created their own Museums and galleries. Dr. Margaret Burrough’s founded the Ebony Museum of Negro History and art which grew into the DuSuble Museum of African American History in response to creating opportunities for presenting and preserving African American Art. Fortunately, today African American art can be found in mainstream museums around the globe. To expand upon this trend, the Saint Louis Art Museum will convene nationally renowned scholars, artists, art professionals, and art collectors in our city July 12 through July 15 for the National Alliance of African and African American Support Groups Conference 2012. The Conference, Navigating the Mainstream: Learning from the Past, Looking to the Future, will serve as a forum to discuss both the successes and challenges of the constantly evolving African and AfricanAmerican arts ield. Discussions will examine best practices for collecting, interpreting, presenting, and preserving our cultural heritage in mainstream museums.

Harper’s Pictorial History of the Civil War (Annotated) in dialogue with a selection of wood engravings from the same era as the original Harper’s publication. The exhibition was co-curated by the 2011-2012 Romare Bearden Graduate Minority Fellow.

Scholarships awarded in name of retiree

In conjunction with the Conference, Harper’s Pictorial History of The Civil War (Annotated) by Kara Walker will be on view at the Saint Louis Art Museum (May 4, 2012 – August 26, 2012). This exhibition presents two prints from Kara Walker’s 2005 portfolio

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Saint Louis Art Museum Romare Bearden Graduate Minority Museum Fellowship. Established in 1992, this fellowship aims to prepare minority graduate students for work in museums and cultural institutions. People of color make up only 1 in 5 museum staff members. Arguably many of the challenges in exhibiting African American Art and engaging minority audiences in mainstream museums could be better addressed with greater staff diversity. The Romare Bearden Fellowship was designed to address these issues. Several fellows have continued on to successful careers in the arts, thereby contributing to the rich legacy of African-American scholarship, creativity, and education. As hosts of Alliance Conference 2012, the Saint Louis Art Museum invites art supporters and art connoisseurs to join us for this historic event in celebration of the 20th anniversary of the Romare Bearden fellowship. The conference is Saint Louis’ largest convening event featuring discussions on how to conserve African American art and culture in mainstream museums throughout the country.

For a full listing of conference details and to register, please visit http://www.slam.org/Bearden 2012/. Contact Renee, renee.frankin@slam.org or 314-655-5437 if you have any questions about the conference or the many other programs sponsored by the Saint Louis Art Museum.

Ornella

Bally and

Brittany

Schuff

receive Mary Jo Giessman Scholarships

American staff

Two recent Hazelwood School District graduates received $1,000 scholarships from the Hazelwood National Education Association (HNEA). The students received the funds at a recent Hazelwood School District Board of Education meeting.

Ornella Bally, who graduated from Hazelwood East High School, and Brittany Schuff, who graduated from Hazelwood West High School, received the

Mary Jo Giessman Scholarship, named for a long-time district employee.

To win the scholarship, students had to express how teachers have influenced, motivated, encouraged and shaped them. They could write an essay of 1,000 words or less, create a threeminute video or PowerPoint presentation, develop a painting or a sculpture or display a portfolio of work demonstrating teachers’ influence.

Bally painted a selfportrait of what her teachers and education meant to her. She will attend Saint Louis University and double-major in pre-med/biology and studio art. She hopes to become a pediatrician.

Schuff created a zebra painting/drawing. She will attend St. Louis Community College on an A+ Scholarship.

Joye,

presented

scholarship. The A+ Scholarship Program is designed to provide scholarship funds to eligible graduates of A+ designated high schools who attend a participating public community college or vocational/technical school or certain private twoyear vocational/technical schools. All three Hazelwood high schools are part of the A+ Schools Program. A retiree noted for her relentless dedication to Hazelwood students and staff, Mary Jo Giessman served the district for 42.5 years. She also worked as a HNEA building representative, secretary, vice president, president and published “The Link,” a HNEA newsletter that went to every district family.

“Exodus of Confederates from Atlanta,” by Kara Walker, 2005; offset lithograph and silkscreen; 39 x 53 inches.

Brian

one of Schuff’s teachers,

her with the

Two recent HSD graduates received the Mary Jo Giessman Scholarship from the Hazelwood National Education Association (HNEA). Hazelwood East High School graduate Ornella Bally, second from right, stands with Diane Livingston, HNEA president, left, Karlton Thornton, vice president of HSD Board of Education, and Giessman, right.

BUSINESS

At the ribbon-cutting for St.Louis Community Credit Union’s first CU Excel Center,a financial literacy and life skills education center in Northwoods:Dorothy Bell (Director,St.Louis Community CU Foundation;VP-PR & Community Affairs,St.Louis Community Credit Union),Patrick Adams (President & CEO,St.Louis Community Credit Union),Congressman Wm.Lacy Clay, Gerald Brooks (Board Chairman,St.Louis Community Credit Union),Mayor Everett Thomas (City of Northwoods),Susan Katzman (Board Chairperson,St.Louis Community CU Foundation),Tom Hough (CEO,Carrollton Bank),state Rep.Clem Smith (Dist.71),Mattie Moore (Senator McCaskill’s staff) and state Rep.Sharon Pace (Dist.70).

Bank, credit union partner in underserved communities

Commit to open branch and financial literacy center and offer new loans

By Rebecca S.Rivas Of The

St.Louis American

In areas that have long been underserved by financial institutions, opening a bank takes more than just opening the doors to the building. The bank must be ready to address the needs of the community, such as making their services affordable and accessible.

Carrollton Bank will provide funds to help St.Louis Community Credit Union open and operate its 11th branch in an underserved community.

On May 16, Carrollton Bank and St. Louis Community Credit Union announced a fouryear, $800,000 collaborative agreement that will increase lending, provide greater access to affordable services, and expand financial education to underserved and low-to-moderate income St. Louis communities.

College introduces middle schoolers to pharmacy

St. Louis College of Pharmacy partners with SLPS on professional education for city kids

By Rebecca S.Rivas Of The St.Louis American

“Engaging students through early awareness programs affords them a chance to learn about pharmacy in an academic environment.”

– Freddie Wills, St.Louis College of Pharmacy

It’s never too early to introduce children to career opportunities. Although the St. Louis College of Pharmacy has been offering such opportunities to high-school students for several years, college leaders wanted to start the pipeline a little earlier this year. On June 8, about 30 middle-school students from McKinley Classical Junior Academy completed the week-long “Summer Pharmacy Academy.” This was a pilot summer camp designed to teach students about the profession of pharmacy and give them hands-on lab experience in com-

See PHARMACY, B6

PEOPLEON THE MOVE

Bill Miller, the Director of Personnel for the State of Missouri, has been appointed associate vice chancellor for human resources at St. Louis Community College. Miller, who will join the college June 25, will be responsible for the district wide human resources functions that include staffing, benefit, health and wellness, retirement, as well as compensation, classification, labor/employee relations, employee training and professional development.

The agreement includes four commitments –to open a new Credit Union branch in an underserved community, to open a new financial learning center, to increase funds for small-dollar loan programs and to add two loan programs.

“We knew combining our resources and expertise with theirs would produce a lot more good for St. Louis’underserved communities than anything we could do on our own,” said Carrollton Bank CEO Tom Hough.

See PARTNER, B2

FORECLOSURE REVIEWDEADLINE IS JULY 31

By Michelle Singletary Washington Post

If you lost your house to foreclosure, the last thing you may want to do is relive the pain. But if you suspect that something was wrong during the foreclosure process, you need to take advantage of an independent review mandated by federal banking regulators. Last year, 14 large residential mortgage servicers were required by the Federal Reserve, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency and the Office of Thrift Supervision to retain independent consultants to conduct a review of their foreclosure actions. This was the result of widespread complaints by consumer advocates and borrowers about deceitful and improper foreclosure practices by mortgage servicers.

Michelle Singletary

If consultants find fault during the review, then borrowers who suffered financial injury because of errors, misrepresentations or other problems in the foreclosure process may get money or some other remedy. At the end of 2011, a consulting firm

acting on behalf of federal bank regulators sent 4.3 million letters to individuals who might be eligible to have their foreclosure actions reviewed. Through May 17, more than 194,000 people responded asking for such a review. Another 142,000 people have been specifically selected for review because either their foreclosure related to a bankruptcy or the foreclosure might have violated the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act, which provides certain rights to military members. “If people believe they were wrongfully injured by a foreclosure error in 2009 and 2010, they should request a review,” said Bryan Hubbard, a spokesman for the OCC. “They give up no rights by requesting a review.”

To also qualify, the foreclosure had to be on your primary residence and the mortgage servicer had to come from one of the 14 participating companies.

If you received a letter, you may have thought: Why bother? You might be skeptical that anything will come of it. But don’t lose out on the chance to get some

Virginia Toliver, associate dean of Washington University Libraries, was one of four members of the Washington University in St. Louis community recently honored with the Gerry & Bob Virgil Ethic of Service Awards. The annual award, presented by the Community Service Office of the Gephardt Institute for Public Service, recognizes WUSTLcommunity members who exemplify a character of service and giving to the St. Louis region.

Cora Drew, JD, MPH, has joined Missouri Foundation for Health as health policy associate Drew assists with health policy-focused grant making and contracts; community and government outreach; and health policy-related research. She also helps Missouri health advocacy organizations become more effective. She has worked as director of research for Health Capital Consultants LLC, and as an adjunct instructor at Lindenwood University.

BUSINESS BRIEFS

St. Louis Children’s Hospital one of ‘America’s Best Hospitals’

For the tenth consecutive year, St. Louis Children’s Hospital has been recognized as one of “America’s Best Hospitals” by U.S. News and World Report. Christian ranked in all 10 specialties reviewed, and is one of only 12 children’s hospitals in the nation to appear on the elite “Honor Roll,” which is reserved for institutions ranked in three or more specialties.

U.S. News surveyed 178 pediatric centers to obtain hard data such as availability of key resources and ability to prevent complications and infections, in the following specialties:cancer, cardiology and heart surgery, diabetes and endocrinology, gastroenterology, neonatology, nephrology, neurology and neurosurgery, orthopedics, pulmonology and urology.

The full rankings and methodology are available at www.usnews.com/childrenshospitals.

Consortium forGraduate Study in Management reports MBAdiversity

The MBAclass of 2014 will include 391 of a record 1,038diversity-minded applicants to the St. Louis-based Consortium for Graduate Study in Management, a national coalition of top U.S. business schools and corporations. The Consortium’s member schools have also awarded $20 million in fulltuition, merit-based fellowships to 234 of the new MBAcandidates, bringing to more than $250million the total amount The Consortium has awarded since its 1966 founding.

The 391 new MBAstudents have exceptional academic credentials. They also have a commitment to diversity proven by their work with organizations fighting for racial and economic equality, their role as mentors for young people in need, their leadership of undergraduate groups devoted to increasing opportunities for minorities, and similar activities.

Cora Drew

Bill Miller

Virginia Toliver

Photo by Wiley Price

Mutual fund transactions can be complicated, especially with the fees and expenses that accompany the process. It’s important to understand mutual fund load, or sales, charges, and exactly what they entail so you can make informed investing decisions.

A“load” is a fee charged to an investor who buys or redeems shares in a mutual fund. It is similar to the commission that investors pay when they purchase a stock. There are two general types of sales loads. If a sales load is required at purchase, it is called a “front-end” sales load; if it is charged when shares are redeemed, it is a deferred or “back-end” sales charge.” The most common type of back-

PARTNER

Continued from B1

What is a mutual fund load?

end sales load is a “contingent deferred sales charge” or CDSC. The amount will depend on how long an investor held the shares, and it could be nothing if they were held long enough. Loads generally compensate brokers and/or salespeople for selling you a fund. For example, it might help compensate a financial professional who spends time with you at the beginning of your relationship, learning about your objectives and helping with your investment program. Brokers might also continually keep in touch with you and answer any questions you have. This communication can be particularly handy for busy people whose idea of investment tracking

By Charles Ross PERSONAL FINANCE

amounts to little more than an occasional call to their financial professionals.

Funds without load fees are called “no-load funds.”

These funds are distributed directly by the investment company and therefore do not need to charge for brokerage services.

Charles Ross

Despite this, all funds, even those with load charges, also have management and expense fees. Management fees pay for the

administration of the fund and are usually based on a percentage of the fund’s assets. There are also 12b-1 fees, or distribution fees, that compensate brokers and other sellers of mutual funds for advertising and marketing costs. These fees are typically a very small percentage of the fund’s assets, often less than a half percent.

Funds that charge loads may have lower 12b-1 fees and

administration fees, so when you are deciding which type of mutual fund to purchase, it is important to review all the costs and fees involved to see which funds may work best for your investment purposes.

Fees and expenses vary from one fund to the next. When assessing different mutual funds, a fund with higher fees and expenses would need to generate higher returns than another fund with lower fees as higher fees can lower your returns.

Mutual fund share prices fluctuate with market conditions. Shares, when sold, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Investments seeking to achieve higher rates of return involve greater risk.

Mutual funds are sold by prospectus. Please consider the investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses carefully before investing. The prospectus, which contains this and other information about the investment company, can be obtained from your financial professional. Be sure to read the prospectus carefully before deciding whether to invest.

Charles Ross is host of the syndicated radio program “Your Personal Finance.”

Contact him at P.O. Box 870928; Stone Mountain, Georgia 30087; or email to charles@ charlesross.com.

New financial education center

“There are still many neighborhoods in the St. Louis area that do not have convenient access to local mainstream banking services,” said St. Louis Community Credit Union President & CEO Patrick Adams. “We are so pleased Carrollton Bank’s support will help us establish a branch in another underserved community inside of the urban footprint.”

According to a 2009 FDIC report, St. Louis is one of the country’s most “unbanked” cities for the African-American population.

St. Louis Community Credit Union is certified by the U.S. Treasury Department as a CDFI – a specialized financial institution that works in market niches that are underserved by traditional financial institutions. Carrollton Bank will provide funds to help St. Louis Community open and operate its 11th branch in an underserved low-to-moderate income community later this year. St. Louis Community has added five branches in the past five years. These new offices were needed to keep up with the roughly 1,100 new member-customers that join the credit union every month, representatives said.

DEADLINE

Continued from B1

redemption if it turns out your mortgage servicer did some-

thing wrong. “The review can take several months and they are very detailed,” Hubbard said. There’s another bonus to finding out if you qualify for a review.

Funds will also be used to help open and operate St. Louis Community’s first CU Excel Center, a financial literacy and life skills education destination point, located in Northwoods. This center will be owned and operated by the St. Louis Community CU Foundation and will offer free financial education classes and seminars to the public.

The foundation was established to offer an outlet for financial education and empowerment, as well as to help low-to-moderate income residents improve their standard of living.

“Until now, the founda-

Requests from eligible borrowers where a foreclosure sale is imminent will receive priority attention, the OCC has said. However don’t expect too much. You still need to work with your mortgage servicer to

tion’s financial classes were held at credit union branches, local businesses or social service agency offices,” said St. Louis Community CU Foundation Director Dorothy Bell. “When we open our Northwoods CU Excel Center next month, it will be the first time we will have dedicated space to offer vital information to the community free of charge that will foster financial dignity, capability and empowerment.”

St. Louis Community and Carrollton Bank employees will teach many of these classes, with help from partner community groups.

More loan programs

determine if the foreclosure can be prevented. Although asking for a review won’t automatically postpone or stop a foreclosure process, at least the extra attention might help.

The review isn’t just for folks whose home sold through foreclosure. Consultants will be looking at cases where homes were slated for foreclosure but the process stopped because payments were brought up to date, the borrower entered a payment plan or modification program, or the home was sold in a short sale or given back to the lender. But you have to act soon. The deadline for requests to get a review by an independent consultant is July

Carrollton will provide a $500,000 loan fund to be used to make more small-dollar loans that include Payday Loan Alternative and Credit Builder. These loans will be originated by St. Louis Community lenders at their offices just as they are done now.

Carrollton will also offer two loan programs that are currently not offered at the St. Louis Community. Carrollton lenders will offer low-downpayment FHAhome loans at all St. Louis Community offices, and commercial loans to area business owners.

While the two institutions operate under different charters that would normally pit them against each other, Hough and Adams have found that their

31. Additional letters will be sent out in early June, Hubbard said. And to increase awareness of eligibility, the Federal Reserve has put together a short video that can be found on YouTube by searching for “Independent Foreclosure Review PSA.”

Here are some additional things that might have gone wrong in your foreclosure action that consultants will examine:

ï The mortgage balance was listed incorrectly.

ï The foreclosure occurred while someone was waiting for a modification even though the person submitted all of the paperwork on time.

institutions are much more similar than different. For example, both institutions have been financially strong during the recent downturn that allowed them to add offices and personnel. Both have a penchant for innovation, exemplified by this agreement that will be the first time a St. Louis credit union and bank have partnered on a project of this magnitude. Both have a desire to make a difference, on a sustainable basis, in the communities that need

ï Aborrower believes the mortgage payment and/or the fees that the servicer charged were inaccurate.

The review is free, so don’t let anyone persuade you that you have to pay for it. There is just one review process. Go to www.IndependentForeclosure Review.com for a list of the 14 mortgage servicers and for more information about the review and claim process. You can mail your request form or submit it online. To get the form online, you have to click on the link for your servicer. The company you sent your monthly mortgage payments to is your mortgage servicer. If you need help completing the form or if you have questions you can call (888) 952-9105. Put your request in. You really have nothing to lose and possibly something to gain.

“I can’t worry about what people say about my game, about who I am as a person.People have their own opinions, and rightfully so.”

– LeBron James

Hamilton leads

Formula One standings

By Fred Sweets Of The St.Louis American

Don’t forget your earplugs: an engine capable of 700 horsepower makes a lot of noise.

British-born race car driver Lewis Hamilton, the only black person ever to compete in a Formula One race, now leads the point standings in a sport dominated by Europeans after winning the Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal. Hamilton, 27, was named for Olympic gold medalist Carl Lewis. Hamilton, the 2008 world champion, earned his first win of the season in seven tries, making last Sunday’s win his Lucky 7. For those more familiar with NASCAR and NHRAdrag racing events, this is different. Formula One races are run on courses and public roads designed for the fastest circuit cars in the world. Hamilton’s Mclaren-Mercedescan reach speeds up to 230 mph on the straightaway and slow quickly to 30 mph to negotiate a hairpin turn. It can stretch an engine to 18,000 rpm using a 7-speed transmission. In other countries, F1 racing enjoys huge popularity. Twenty Grand Prix races, each with a distinctive circuit, are held each year on five continents with F1 returning to the U.S. this November in Austin, Texas.

If you think you would like the roar of engines in a beautiful locale where the A-listers hang out, plan a vacation to a Grand Prix stop: Montreal, Monte Carlo, Belgium, Bahrain, Shanghai, Sao Paulo, Abu Dhabi and Austin, with many exotic stops in between. Admission tickets can be pricey, depending on the venue, ranging from $95 on the low

INTHE CLUTCH

With Ishmael H.Sistrunk

end to upwards of $2,500 for premium seats with occasional access to the cars and drivers before the race. For more information on Formula 1 racing, visit www.formula1.com.

PACQUIAOBEATS BRADLEY – ANDLOSES

If boxing judges were given pre-fight ring walks, entrance music and entourages, I imagine Duane Ford, C.J. Ross and Jerry Roth would’ve strolled down the aisle last Saturday, heads bobbing in unison, to a live performance of Let’s Plan a Robbery by a reunited Three 6 Mafia. At least then, fans and spectators would’ve been given some sort of warning as to what was about to happen. With their disastrous decision to gift Timothy Bradley Jr. a win over Manny Pacquiao, the three blind mice have supplanted Crunchy Black, DJ Paul and Juicy J as the most known unknowns. After a so-so bout against arch

H.

nemesis Juan Manuel Marquez, in which he earned a disputed decision, Pacquiao bounced back by dominating the undefeated Bradley over twelve rounds. By Compubox stats, Pacquiao landed more total punches (253 to 159), power punches (190 to 108) and a higher percentage of punches (34 percent to 19 percent) than his opponent. To the objective eye, after the second-

round it seemed if Bradley had finally gotten a proper taste of Pacquiao’s vaunted speed and punching power and realized he had bitten off more than he could chew.

It’s not that Bradley ever gave up, he gave a gallant effort and showed real heart and determination during the bout, fighting through foot problems. But after a few rounds, the challenger was visibly discouraged by the hearty serving of straight left hands and became less aggressive. He was admittedly hurt and dazed numerous times during the middle rounds. On the

INSIDE SPORTS

With Earl Austin Jr.

It it hard to believe that we are celebrating the 20th anniversary of “The Dream Team” which was the great collection of athletes in the history of sports. Yeah, I said it. The 1992 United States Olympic men’s basketball team was the best team ever put together in any sport at any time. Period.

If you are a basketball fan who happens to have the NBATVnetwork on your cable television, they are now running a documentary on the Dream Team on its 20th anniversary. The show began running this week on NBATV, but there will be plenty of opportunities to watch it.

Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, Michael Jordan, Charles Barkley, Karl Malone, John Stockton, Scottie Pippen, Chris Mullin, Patrick Ewing, David Robinson, Clyde Drexler and Christian Laettner. The names speak for themselves.

The 1992 United States Olympic men’s basketball team was the best team ever put together in any sport at any time.Period.

For years, we had heard the stories about the selection process of the team as well as the ultracompetitive practices between these superstars. Now, we all get a chance to get an inside look at these basketball legends from the moment they were brought together to the time they stood of the gold medal stand in Barcelona, Spain. What a special group this was. I can remember in ’92 when the networks came up with this concept called the Olympic Triplecast, where the games were shown on three different networks. You can purchase whatever channel you favorite event had so you could see all of them without missing anything. Naturally, I got the channel with the Dream Team and I didn’t miss a single second of them. I could not get enough of them. Neither could the rest of the world.

Not only were these the basketball Gods coming to Spain, but they were the ambassadors of USAbasketball spreading good will and the fundamentals that coaches have been teaching to international players for decades.

It was ironic that back then the only people who resisted the use of NBAplayers in the Olympics were Americans. Many people wanted to continue using the college kids, despite the fact that they

Earl Austin Jr.

Manny Pacquiao,left,andTimothy Bradley exchange punches in the 12th round of their WBO world welterweight title fight Saturday night in Las Vegas.Bradley won a very controversial split decision.

Photo by Fred Sweets

Ishmael

Sistrunk

Photo courtesy of The Gazette/Dario Ayala

Lewis Hamilton,the only black person ever to compete in a Formula One race,now leads the point standings in a sport dominated by Europeans after winning the Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal.

Britishborn race car driver Lewis Hamilton celebrates after winning the Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal.

CLAIB’S CALL

With Mike Claiborne

The parades are forthe team

Whenever you have a sport that rolls into its playoffs, you will always hear the banter about individual players and their greatness. It seems that the only thing that seems to count is the number of championships they have won.

Mike Claiborne

At last check when commissioners David Stern, Gary Bettman, Roger Goddell and Bud Selig award the champions of their leagues, it’s always given to the team. Yes, there is a Most Valuable Player award, but the rings and the parades are for the team.

I bring this up because it appears that unless Lebron James is on a championship team then is all his greatness just a mirage?

I bring this up because it appears that unless Lebron James is on a championship team then is all his greatness just a mirage?

Too many times you hear the statement from media types, “Yeah, but how many rings does he have?”

Perhaps the most asinine statement ever made.

In most cases, players have very little say so in the construction of their teams and coaches. They just play and play hard; after all, that is what is expected of them. Sometimes they win as a team and sometimes they lose as a team. In the end, it is still a

CLUTCH

Continued from B3 team. Coaching

other side of the ring, Pacquiao who’s never been considered defensive wiz, blocked and avoided many of Bradley’s shots, leading to the aforementioned paltry 19 percent landing percentage. Bradley was simply outclassed. The Associated Press had Pacquiao winning 117-111. ESPN’s Dan Rafael scored it 119-109 for Pacquiao and called the decision “an absolute absurdity.” Bradley’s mother probably couldn’t have found more than three rounds for her son.

It seemed surreal when the

decision was rendered. At the fight party I attended, people joked about how quickly the tabulation of scorecards would take place. One buddy, who had apparently laid down a few wagers on a Bradley victory sat sullenly as he mentally prepared for a few weeks of peanut butter or bologna sandwiches in lieu of his soon-to-be lightened bank account. When the first pro-Bradley score was announced, head-shaking ensued.

the ring thing on a player as confirmation

their

ness. Lebron’s not

and

Try

feared the wrong decision would be made. Even the announcement of Roth’s 115113 pro-Pacquiao score garnered grumbles for being too close.

The three blind mice have supplanted Crunchy Black, DJ Paul and Juicy J as the most known unknowns.

But knowing there’s often one “crazy” judge, nobody

“What fight were they watching?” somebody asked. When the last score was read, the room was filled with silence ... then anger and disbelief. To make matters worse, this didn’t happen at a smoke-filled club or in a ESPN-level fight on a Tuesday night. People shelled out $70 bucks to see the gross injustice. During the post-fight interview, Bradley acknowl-

Weather Report

The Thunder versus the Heat in the NBAFinals. That is some serious weather when it comes to what this championship is all about. The two premiere players in the league with their teams playing for the NBAchampionship. What more could you ask for if the Lakers are not in it?

Kevin Durant and Lebron James are the future faces of the league. They both represent well on and off the court, they are signed to long-term deals and they have given new life to league for what they stand for, on and off the court.

Must-watch TV, for sure.

But turn the sound down and try ESPN radio. No one is better than Dr. Jack Ramsey.

Fight fix?

For all the chumps who continue to support the boxing industry by buying pay per-view-events, when will you learn? Being had again by the Timothy Bradley vs. Manny Pacquiao fight should teach you a lesson. You are out of $69.95, some beer and that dish for the viewing party.

When one of the biggest culprits in promoter Bob Arum says someone should investigate, that should tell you all you need to know. Arum says the government should be involved. Sorry, Bob, but there are more pressing things the government should focus on.

Lesson learned? Probably not.

know how that works out. Ernie Banks was not great? Get a two ball, one strike count on him and see how far he can hit it.

edged he wasn’t satisfied with his performance. Neither was the crowd, who booed raucously. This fight wasn’t a close bout that ended in a disputed decision (see Pacquiao –Marquez III), it was Usain Bolt setting a world-record in the 100m final only to be told he finished second to the fat, slow guy who hadn’t crossed the finish line yet.

Of course, boxing didn’t fall from its high graces from past generations by accident. Corruption, scandal and gross incompetence reign supreme in a sport where world champions were once revered by all. Now many of them aren’t even recognized. The sport of boxing has been battered for far too long to still rack up black eyes. This decision was a vicious shot to the gut. With disgusted fans leaving in droves, it’s becoming more and more difficult for the sport to recover and catch its breath.

You can follow In the Clutch on Twitter @intheclutchstl and online at www.stlamerican.com.

Spare me with the talk that this opens the door for MMA to move in. Fight fans will shy away from something they can see on any parking

lot at various drinking establishments at closing time.

Legend lost Olympic boxing champion Teofilo Stevenson passed this week. An international legend, Stevenson won four Gold medals as a heavyweight boxer. His chiseled look and devastating right hand was one that put many to sleep. Stevenson turned down offers to leave Cuba to fight as a professional as many thought he would be a great rival for Ali or Foreman. He chose life on the island and was hailed as an icon. Stevenson, according to reports, passed of a heart attack at the young age of 60.

Racism abroad

Racism is alive and well in the sport of soccer. You know, the sport that the rest of the world plays. Soccer hooligans make street gangs here look like Cub Scouts. Players, referees and fans not only fear for their safety but also their lives. Players of color are regularly taunted by fans who do everything from throw bananas on the field to make the sounds of monkeys when a black player gets near the ball. Hard to believe in 2012.

Games have been suspended, fans have been ejected and teams have been fined – in many cases to no avail, as it now seems to incite other cities to do it more.

I have found it surprising that with all of the passion that is shown for soccer in the U.S., that neither lovers or experts ever utter a word about this travesty. So the next time you see the ESPN highlights that show a great goal, ask yourself how many people of color on that play were insulted by the mental midgets we call racist?

Lebron’s not great? Try guarding him,and let me know how that works out.

Manny Pacquiao (right) of the Philippines measures Timothy Bradley (left) of the U.S.during their WBO welterweight title match at the MGM Grand Arena on Saturday night in Las Vegas.Unbeaten Bradley ended Pacquiao's long unbeaten run with a controversial split decision victory over the Filipino ring icon.

Local vets earn medals at national games

LaRoy Smith and James Smith excel at 26th

National Veterans Golden Age Games

American staff

More than 700 veterans from across the country descended on St. Louis last week to compete in the 26th National Veterans Golden Age Games. This annual Olympicstyle sports competition is for veterans at least 55 years old and offered 14 events ranging from air rifle, to cycling, to dominos.

The Golden Age Games is designed so veterans of all ability levels and physical conditions can participate.

Veterans with a variety of disabilities are commonplace and compete in all the events along with the other veterans.

Veterans with a variety of disabilities are commonplace and compete in all the events along with the other veterans. Thirtynine veterans from the host city participated, bringing home 38 medals. Two of those veterans, LaRoy and James Smith (no relation), each brought home a medal in the bowling competition and had a great time doing it.

Army veteran LaRoy Smith was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1986. Now 61, LaRoy does not let his physical condition keep him from doing the things he loves and competing against his fellow veterans. He said he had a great time at his first Golden Age Games and would like to go again next year.

“It was very uplifting as far as competing with other veterans. It gave me a sense of purpose, so to speak,“ said LaRoy, who brought home a silver medal in the 60-64 age group wheelchair category with at two-game combined score of 190. The Department of Veterans Affairs hosts six national rehabilitation events. VASt. Louis holds local versions for three of these events: Golden Age

Games, Wheelchair Games and Creative Arts Festival. LaRoy has participated in all three at both the national and local levels.

James Smith, a 78-year-old navy veteran, bowled a combined two-game score of 144 at the Golden Age Games. James had spinal cord surgery in 2011, but that did not keep him from winning the gold medal in the 75-79 age group and competing in the horseshoes competition, a sport he had never played before.

Navy veteran James Smith takes aim during the horseshoes competition at the 26th National Veterans Golden Age Games.James, 78,is recovering from spinal cord surgery and also won the gold medal in bowling.

LaRoy Smith,61, poses with his bowling silver medal.LaRoy was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1986.

According to James, his rehabilitation is going well. He can stand and walk, but he does not have his balance back quite yet. He used the Golden Age Games to help with his rehab and to motivate him to try something new.

“It was a delightful experience. The camaraderie was nice with all the vets and their families,” said James. “The competition was fierce. There was a guy that was very good at horseshoes and he beat me, then beat five other players.”

It was ironic that back then the only people who resisted the use of NBA players in the Olympics were Americans.

were getting beaten regularly by the seasoned international professionals. However, the rest of the world was ready to see the best that the USAhad to offer. And we were obligated to give it to them. How else could you explain every opposing team posing with pictures and acting like wide-eyed school children after a 60-point loss to the Dream Team. These men were idolized in every corner of the world as much as they were here in the USA. To be able share the same 94x50’space with a Magic Johnson or Michael Jordan for a couple of hours

Cheyenne signs with Buckeyes

Affton High girls track star Cheyenne Hoerr signed a national letter of intent to attend The Ohio State University this week.Hoerr won four gold medals at the recent Missouri Class 3 state championships in Jefferson City.She led the Cougars to a second-place finish in the team standings.Cheyenne (front row,middle) is joined in the front row by her father Lonnie Hoerr and grandmother Linda Hoerr.In the back row are Tim Hill (head coach),Holly Speaks (aunt),Tamela Ugent (aunt) and Devon Ford (coach).

Alumni fever

By Earl Austin Jr. Of The American

There will be two big alumni basketball events taking place here in town in the next two weeks.

The first event will be the Big Game Alumni Classic, which will be held on Saturday at Maplewood High School. The Classic will feature eight games with 16 schools participating.

The schedule goes as follows:

University City vs. Wellston, 12:15 p.m.;

Beaumont vs. Jennings, 1:25 p.m.;

Soldan vs. McCluer, 2:35 p.m.;

Gateway Tech vs. Riverview Gardens, 3:45 p.m.;

Normandy vs. Berkeley, 4:55 p.m.;

Hazelwood Central vs. Hazelwood East, 6:05 p.m.;

Vashon vs. Cardinal Ritter College Prep, 7:15 p.m.

Admission for the games is $5. For more information, you can call (314) 497-3547 or (314) 440-7847.

The next event will be the City vs. County B-Ball Bragging Rights Classic, which will be held on

Saturday, June 23 at Crossroads High School (500 DeValiviere Ave.). There will be four games, beginning at 3 p.m. with the Class of 2000s playing each other. That will be followed at 4 p.m. by a women’s game.

The 1980’s will play at 6 p.m. with the 1990’s game rounding out the event at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults and $2 for children.

Surge ahead

The St. Louis Surge will continue its Women’s Blue Chip Basketball League

Schedule on Sunday afternoon against Indiana at 3 p.m. on Father’s Day. The game will be played at the University of Missouri-St. Louis. The Surge are currently 5-1 on the season.

Angels in Illinois

Also in WBCBLaction, the Illinois Shooting Stars will host the Missouri Arch Angels on Saturday afternoon at 2 p.m. at Lewis and Clark College in Godfrey, Ill. Admission is $7 for adults, $3 for children 6 and up and free for children under 5.

showtime, but there was ball movement, passing, fundamentals in team play. The Dream Team represented the basketball values that so many coaches and players taught to the international players when they put on clinics around the world. The world listened, learned and brought its game up as well to the point where the game of basketball is truly a global one. It was a magical two weeks of basketball that none of us will ever forget. Now, thanks to NBATV, we will all get a chance to walk down memory lane with the Dream Team.

The 1992 U.S. Olympic Dream Team.

Boys & Girls Club inducts Alumni Hall of Honor

Alumni honoree Eric Kendall Banks visits with Boys & Girls Club of Greater St.Louis board member Jerry Garbutt and the club’s executive director Flint Fowler at its 2012 Recognition Event held June 7 at Herbert Hoover Club.An attorney who operates his own firm,Banks Law LLC,Banks was inducted into the Alumni Hall of Honor alongside Ashley Barnes,Claude Bond and Howard Richards.

Last year’s Member of the Year

Mathew Stewart,last year’s Boys & Girls Club of Greater St.Louis Member of the Year, introduced the new group of inductees into the Alumni Hall of Honor at the 2012 Recognition Event held June 7 at Herbert Hoover Club. Eric Kendall Banks, Ashley Barnes,Claude Bond and Howard Richards were inducted.

PHARMACY

Continued from B1 pounding medicines.

The program originated from a conversation between College President Dr. John Pieper and St. Louis Public School Superintendent Kelvin Adams. They decided to start with students from McKinley, a SLPS magnet school, and expand from there if all goes well.

“It’s about working with the people who live in the City of St. Louis and their children to talk about opportunities in pharmacy and to engage them to a trajectory that will prepare them to be competitive,” Pieper said. “We want them to get some sense of how science education is important.”

D’Ajeane Love, 13, said her week in the pharmacy academy was one of the most memorable in her life. She plans to get her PhD in psychology; however, she enjoyed getting to know her peers better and increasing her understanding

of science.

“Many of the students were able to get a better idea of what they wanted to do in the future,” she said. “I think many of them are thinking about going into pharmacy.”

The college funded the program, which cost about $15,000, Pieper said. Students learned about how prescription and over-the-counter medicines affect the body and how medicine dosages are calculated. They also learned medical terminology and abbreviations and created their own lip balm and calamine lotion.

Freddie Wills, director of diversity at the college said, “Engaging students through early awareness programs affords them a chance to learn about pharmacy in an academic environment. The goal is to introduce pharmacy and peak an interest in the profession for the students.”

The college also has two programs that focus on 10th through 12th graders. The BESt program is collaboration between Barnes Jewish, Express Scripts and the col-

On June 8, about 30 middleschool students from McKinley Classical Junior Academy completed the week-long “Summer Pharmacy Academy,”a partnership between the St.Louis College of Pharmacy and the St.Louis Public Schools. Luke Trask and D'Ajeane Love work together to make calamine lotion.

lege, and it focuses on minority students. The Walgreens Explorer program is a direct employment initiative. The high school students spend six weeks in a summer college program, and at the end of it, they come out of it as pharmacy technicians. Walgreens also commits to hire them.

“I believe we have to mirror the community we live in, and the fact is we simply have not,” Pieper said. “We have to put in place programs that reach out and recruit strong groups of students that reflect our community.”

Pieper said Missouri is among the nine states that still have a high demand for pharmacists. Last year, 75 million Baby Boomers hit 65 years of ago, which will make the demand even higher, he said.

“The pharmacy industry is evolving from being productoriented to being more patient education and coaching adherence in chronic disease managements,” he said. “There’s a huge shortage of primary care physicians. We feel that pharmacists are in a sweet spot.”

Photo by Wiley Price

Photo by Wiley Price

Underground hiphop support system

S.L.U.M. Festival

seeks to build relationships in local rap game

By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American

“The music business functions on relationships – people don’t seem to understand that in St. Louis,” said rapper Tef Poe.

“I had this one cat say, ‘I guess it’s all about who you know.’ And I’m like, ‘Exactly. You hit the nail

on the head, brother.’”

This Saturday, the 3rd Annual St. Louis Underground Music Festival, or SLUMfest, will present the opportunity for local artists to get to know one another. More than 60 artists will perform on four stages, and MCs, b-boys, DJs and graffiti artists will cross-pollenate with the essential elements of hip-hop.

A mix-tape to highlight the featured artists and a preview party at the Gramophone will serve as the sneak preview.

“SLUMfest is planned to be a networking event and a showcase event for artists that are trying to get on,” said co-creator and SLUMfest host Finsta.

“SLUMfest is meant to be for the community, so you can become

Curvy girl in a summer world

Sizzling frumpfree styles that accentuate and

flatter

By Danie Rae For The St. Louis American

When the temperature heats up, it’s time to break out the sleeveless tops, floral pants, and sexy frocks. Let your curves speak for themselves by accentuating them in all the right places.

Being a “curvy” girl myself, I find challenges in finding figure flattering clothes for the summer months. During the winter it’s easy because layers are a girl’s best friend, but when it heats up, and the layers have to shed, it’s hard to hide the not so pretty lump or bump. But with the right fabrics, silhouettes, and colors a curvy girl can be the “belle of the ball” for any occasion.

Fabrics: Silks/Chiffons, and Cotton

These fabrics have the ability to drape, which is not only aesthetically pleasing, but they also give you room to move! Cotton is every girl’s friend when

more essential to hip-hop in your city. If nobody outside of your neck of the woods, your neighborhood –your house – knows you, you have a lot of people that you do not know, but you need to know on all levels.”

Poe – on the bill since the first SLUMfest – has graduated from

it comes to summertime styles. If you sweat like me, cotton can “breath” and act as your personal air conditioner. Try and avoid a lot of nylons or polyester blends. These fabrics aren’t the best when trying to hide not so perfect shapes. They also hold heat, and don’t allow air to pass through.

Silhouettes: “Accentuate Your Best Feature”

If you have an “hour glass figure” you might not be faced with the dilemma of making sure you’re emphasizing your right body parts. But if you’re like the majority of us who might have a little “extra” here and there, you have to draw the attention to your best assets.

For the “top heavy” woman, you have to avoid choosing clothing shapes that make you look like an upside down pyramid. The “A-line” silhouette will be your best friend. You want to balance the bottom half of your body, with the top, while showing that you have a waist line.

the line-up and is returning as an “esteemed alumni” to present his “War Machine 2” release.

Skeema, a long time underground fixture from the Hi-Pointe days, is now trying his hand as a solo MC.

By Rebecca S. Rivas

By Kenya

I couldn’t help but piggyback on Desiree’s topic of sex minus commitment and add another component that a small percentage of the ladies may or may not relate to (insert sarcastic side-eye).

Somewhere in the universe there is a woman in a similar situation of being propositioned with “commitment-free” sex. But instead of standing her ground and saying, “This is not what I signed up for,” she says, “You know what, I don’t have anything else going on, he’ll do for tonight.”

She does want commitment, but the man she’s decided to hook up with is by no means even on her radar as a potential for anything other than a temporary bed buddy. “Guys do it all of the time,” she resolves in her mind. “Plus, he’s cute … and I need it. That doesn’t make me a slut … right? What’s the worst thing that could happen? Men do it all the time!”

HIV, herpes or a baby by a lightweight stranger are among the top three.

But right up there with that ungodly trifecta is that feeling once you run into the man you threw caution to the wind with. I don’t care what any girl says, if she goes for it she’s quietly hoping to NEVER see this man again. But she always does and it’s usually the worst, most awkward of encounters.

No matter what he says when you two meet in broad daylight, in your heart you feel like he’s coming at you like a common street trick.

“Hey, sexy,” the man says to you. Somebody else would see it as a compliment, but because of your history, you think to yourself, “Sexy …? We are in the grocery store, uggh. Why did I do this to myself?”

Because he essentially let you know the play (mostly non-verbal) and you were beyond compliant during your nightcap, he thinks everything is cool.

“I’ve been calling you,” he says. “Did you get your number changed or something?”

“Yes, I did,” you say.

Vaughn Of The St. Louis American

St. Louis native Andre Boyd plays drums in Cirque du Soleil’s Quidam, which hits the Chaifetz Arena June 20 to 24.

Photos by Matt Beard.

Costumes by Dominique Lemieux

1.Email your listing to calendar@stlamerican.com OR 2.Visit the calendar section on stlamerican.com and place your listing

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

concerts

Thur., June 14, 7 p.m., Grace Hill presents WhitakerUrban Evening Series feat. Soulard Blues Band. Free family event, food vendors, face painters, and more. St. Louis Place Park, Rauschenbach & St. Louis Ave., 63105. For more information, call (314) 584-6904.

June 15 – 16, Jazz St. Louis and Wells Fargo Advisors present Tim Cunningham Jazz at the Bistro, 3536 Washington Ave., 63103. For more information, call314289-4030 or visit www.jazzstl.org.

Fri., June 15, 8 p.m., Gateway Men’s Chorus “extrABBAganza.” The award winning Gateway Men’s Chorus will turn the Edison Theatre into a disco palace. Don your ABBAapparel and help us bring back the 70s. Edison Theatre, Washington University, 6445 Forsyth, 63105. For more information, call (314) 289-4169.

Sun., June 17, 6 p.m., VMBB Productions presents The Dramatics feat. LJ Reynolds. The Ambassador, 9800 Halls Ferry Rd., 63136. For more information, call (314) 4564826.

Sat., June 23, 8 p.m., Third Annual Lee “The Rose Man” Nixon Tribute Party feat. Kim Massie and more. The Ambassador’s Club Klymaxx, 9800 Halls Ferry Rd., 63136. For more information, call

(314) 495-7307.

Sun., June 24, 4 p.m., Sonic Safari Concert. Aconcert of music in African languages from a diverse selection of African cultures. Learn how to say hello in Swahili, a few new dance moves, and what an instrument called the “udu” is. Union Memorial United Methodist Church, 1141 Belt Ave., 63112. For more information, call (314) 652-6800.

Sun., June 24, 8 p.m., Disco Donnie & Live Nation present Afrojack. The Pageant, 6161 Delmar Blvd., 63112. For more information, call (314) 726-6161.

Tues., June 26, 7:30 p.m., The Sheldon presents “Notes From Home” feat. Coco Soul and Friends & The Soul Academy of Music. The Sheldon Concert Hall and Art Gallery, 3648 Washington Ave., 63108. For more information, call (314) 533-9900 or visit www.thesheldon.org.

Sat., June 30, 8 p.m., The Pageant presents Will Downing. 6161 Delmar Blvd., 63112. For more information, call (314) 726-6161.

Sun., July 15, The Summer Music Festival feat. Maze with Frankie Beverly, Pattie LaBelle, The O’Jays, Babyface, and Tank. Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre, 14141 Riverport Dr., 63043. For more information, visit www.ticketmaster.com.

Sun., Jul. 22, 6 p.m., Mindless Behavior with spe-

CALENDAR

cial guests Jacob Latimore and Lil Twist, The Fox Theatre.

Tues., July 31, 7 p.m., Peabody Opera House presents Nicki Minaj. 1400 Market St., 63103. For more information, call (314) 4997600.

Missouri Botanical Garden presents WhitakerMusic Festival, every Wednesday at 5:30 p.m., through July 25. Enjoy free outdoor concerts; pack a picnic or purchase food and beverages on site.4344 Shaw Blvd., 63110. For more information, call (314) 5775100.

local gigs

Through June 25, Missouri History Museum presents Twilight Tuesdays. Free OutdoorConcerts. Lindell and DeBalivere in Forest Park. For more information call 314746-4599 or visit www.mohistory.org.

special events

Fri., June 15, 7 p.m., Wells Fargo Advisors presents A Zoo Ado 2012: Flamingo Fling. Creative casual party benefits the Saint Louis Zoo. Evening includes dinner, live music, dancing, silent auction and more. Reservations required. Ages 21 and up only. St. Louis Zoo, One

Government Dr., 63110. For more information, call (314) 781-0900.

Fri., June 15, 10 p.m.,

Firefighters Institute for Racial Equality hosts Rolling ForBackstoppers. The Jazz Loft, 3112 Olive, 63103. For more information, call (314) 393-3231.

June 15 – 17, The Doctorate Group presents St. Louis Greek Weekend. Greeks young and old” will come together and make new acquaintances, network and celebrate during this eventfilled weekend. Over $4000 will be rewarded during the weekend. For more information, visit www.stlgreekweekend.com.

Fri., Jun. 15,, 5:30 p.m., St. Louis City of NAACP hosts their Annual Freedom Fund Dinner: “Affirming America’s Promise.” Renaissance Grand Hotel, 800 Washington Ave., 63101. For more information, call (314) 361-8600 or (314) 367-8739.

Sat., June 16, 6-Mile Fun Ride with Ronald McDonald. Bike around Forest Park to support families of seriously ill children. St. Louis Community College at Forest Park, 5600 Oakland Ave., 63110. For more information, call (314) 932-4132.

Sat., June 16, 8 a.m., Firefighters Institute for Racial Equality hosts Roll Out Remembrance. Motorcycle ride in remembrance of the fallen Police,

Sun., June 17, 7:30 a.m., GO! St. Louis All-American 5K & Fun Run. This 5k race (3.1 miles) & Fun Run (1-Mile) promises to be pure AllAmerican fun, complete with Apple Pie and Ice Cream, and is open to all ages and fitness abilities. Kirkwood YMCA, 325 N. Taylor Ave., 63122. For more information, call (314) 727-0800.

June 21 – 24, Jack and Jill of America hosts Mid-Western Region Teen Leadership Conference. America’s Center, 701 Convention Plaza, 63101. For more information, call (314) 241-9090 or (314) 3425036.

Fire, and EMS workers. Skate King to Forest Park, 6100 Natural Bridge Ave., 63120. For more information, call (314) 393-3231.

Sat., June 16, Delta Dental of Missouri and the St. Louis Cardinals host The 2012 Smiles LEAGUE Coaches’ Choice High School Seniors All-StarBaseball Game Admission to the game is free and gates will open after the conclusion of the Cardinals game.Raffle ticketsbenefittingCardinals Care, Give Kids ASmile and Delta Dental Health Theatreare currently on sale at www.smilesleague.com. Busch Stadium, 700 Clark Ave., 63102. For more information, call (314) 436-9090.

Sat., June 16, 2 p.m., St. Louis Underground Music Festival 2012. The biggest Hip Hop Festival in the Midwest is going down again with a 12hour celebration. With over 60+ local artists performing, 11 DJ’s spinning and setting the mood, a slew of graffiti artists doing live displays, and more. Atomic Cowboy, 4140 Manchester Ave., 63110. For more information, call (314) 442-8749.

Sat., June 16, 8 p.m., KISS Fitness Studios hosts Champagne and Stilettos. Wear your city chic attire and stilettos and come enjoy drinks, refreshments, and a sexy dance lesson. KISS Fitness Studio, 3230 Parker Rd., 63033. For more information, call (314) 276-4125.

Sat., June 23, 1 p.m., H.A.L.O. hosts Family Fun Day. This Family FUN Event is open to the public, designed for Adult and Youth Empowerment and pleasure. Free Refreshments, Vendors on site for various nonprofit fundraisers benefiting St. Louis City & County Youth summer programs, Free games, activities, resource information, and door prizes. Bring 2 can goods and be entered into the Baseball Cardinals Tickets/Pointer Pizza Drawings. Can Goods to benefit local food pantries. St. Vincent’s Park & Rec Center, 7335 St. Charles Rock Rd., 63133. For more information, call (314) 691-4053 or visit www.haloproject2010.com. Sat., June 23, 7 p.m., ALIVE Magazine and Bud Light present ULTRAWhite Party: STLPride Fest Weekend. Erney’s, 4200 Manchester Ave., 63110. For more information, call (314) 652-7195. Fri., Jun. 29, 5:30 p.m. United Way of GreaterSt.

MBB Productions presents The Dramatics feat.LJ Reynolds at The Ambassador. See CONCERTS for more information.

more information, call (314) 534-5400.

Wed., July 4, 7 a.m., FairSt. Louis. Freedom 4 Miler and a one-mile family fun run. Followed by, the 135th annual Veiled Prophet Parade themed “Around the World.” At noon, the first of two air shows, including top civilian performers and military aircraft, will take place. Also local and national entertainment, Kids Town and other activities. Evening concludes with fireworks display at approximately 9:15 p.m. Gateway Arch Grounds. For more information, call (314) 434-3434 ext. 2001.

Through August 19, Missouri Botanical Garden presents Lantern Festival: Art by Day, Magic by Night.

Elaborate outdoor sets crafted of silk and steel celebrate Chinese culture through bold color, dazzling light and striking design.The exhibition offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness a spectacle rarely staged outside of Asia. 4344 Shaw Blvd., 63110. For more information, call (314) 577-5100.

Berkeley Class of 1982 is celebrating its 30 year class reunion August 17-19, 2012 and is seeking classmates to attend the reunion and reunion planning meetings. For more information about the reunion please call Anthony Wilder 314-479-0110, Portland (Matthews) Whitlock 314-7669108, or Tammy Davis 314302-1339.

literary

Thur., June 21, 7 p.m., Schafly Public Library will host author Ellen Abramson, author of Live to Dance. 225 N. Euclid Ave., 63108. For more information, call (314) 206-6779 or visit www.slpl.org.

Fri., June 29, 9 a.m., KMOX and Fontbonne University Book Club host author Janet Evanovich. Best known for her numbered series of thrillers, starting with “One for the Money” starring Bounty Hunter Stephanie Plum. Now, this New York Times best-selling author turns to “Wicked Business” in the latest installment of her Lizzy and Diesel series. KMOX’s Charlie Brennan will interview live at this event. Stages St. Louis, 111 S. Geyer, 63122. For more information, call (314) 3676731 or visit www.kmox.com.

comedy

Sat., June 16, 7 p.m. & 9 p.m., Lumiere Place Casino & Hotels hosts Eddie Griffin 999 N. Second St., 63160. For more information, call (314) 881-7777.

theatre

Sat., June 16, 7:30 p.m. & Sun., June 17, 3 p.m., StarFire Productions presents Dinner, Drama and Dessert, Bridgeton Community Center, 11419 Fee Fee Rd. For more information and tickets, visit www.starfirehot.com or call (314) 7325146.

Sun., Jun. 17, 3:30 p.m. & 6 p.m., WHO KILLED THE CHURCH? The Missouri History Museum in Forest Park. Visit WWW.WHOKILLEDTHECH URCH.COM

Through Jun. 17, 8 p.m. Shakespeare Festival St. Louis presents Othello Shakespeare Glen in Forest Park (Fine Arts Drive).

Through June 23, Opera Theatre of St. Louis presents Carmen. Loretto-Hilton Center, 130 Edgar Rd., 63119. For more information, call (314) 961-0644 or visit www.experienceopera.org.

Through June 24, The Black Repertory Company presents Insidious. Atorrid dark comedy of down-low terrorism in the age of AIDS. Taboo twists and turns, a gripping scenario, a shattering climax. (For mature audiences only). Grandel Theatre, 3610 Grandel Sq., 63108. For more information, visit www.metrotix.com.

Through July 1, Stages St. Louis presents Ain’t Misbehavin’. The swingin’ nightclubs of 1930s Manhattan come to life in this musical revue. 444 Chesterfield Ctr., 63017. For more information, call (314) 821-2407 or visit www.stagesstlouis.org.

arts

Fri., June 15, 6 p.m, “The Third Dimension” Exhibition Opening Reception. The exhibition runs June 15 – July 20. Sculptures of all shapes, sizes, media and forms will be on display. Foundry Art Centre, 520 N. Main Center, 63301. For more information, call (636) 255-0270 or visit www.foundryartcentre.org.

Through Sept. 3,Missouri History Museum presents

Fire! Friend and Foe. Using artifacts from its extensive collection and local collectors, the Missouri History Museum examines the mystifying duality of fire. Visitors will learn the history of St. Louis’volunteer and professional firefighters. They will gain an understanding of the horrors and heroism of fires—including the Great Fire of 1849. For more information call 314-746-4599 or visit www.mohistory.org.

lectures

Through Jun. 15, 9 a.m., Intensive with Michelle Jarvis, Michelle Jarvis, Associate Dean and Professor of Dance at Butler Jordan College of Fine Arts leads this ballet intensive for high intermediate and advanced dancers (ages 14-22). COCA, 724 Trinity Blvd. For more information, visit www.cocastl.org

Saturdays (Jun. 16 – Aug. 11), 8:30 a.m., College Tutors hosts Free ACTPractice Test. College Tutors will proctor this simulated examination for students to learn what they can expect on the college admission tests. Students must preregisterforthis test; space is limited. College Nannies & Tutors, 5988 Mid Rivers Mall Dr., 63304. For more information and to register, call(636) 926-2681.

health

Sat., June 16, 7:30 a.m., Epilepsy Foundation of

Jazz St.Louis and Wells Fargo Advisors present Tim Cunningham at Jazz at the Bistro. See CONCERTS for details.

Missouri & Kansas hosts

Seize the Day Epilepsy 5K Run/1 mi. Walk. $20 adult registration fee; $5 children’s registration fee. Kirkwood Train Station, 110 W. Argonne Dr., 63122. For more information, call (314) 781-4949 or visit www.seizetheday.kintera.org.

Sat., June 16, 10 a.m., Circle of Light Church Health Fair, Several local agencies will provide free services, 8759 Annetta Ave. St Louis, MO 63147. For more information, call (314)435-0683.

Wed., June 20, 8 a.m., Free Mammogram Screenings. Free mammograms, clinical breast exams and breast-care education are available for those who qualify. Women must be 40 or older with no insurance or insurance that doesn’t pay for mammograms, and never had a mammogram or haven’t had one in more than 13 months. SSM St. Mary’s Health Center, 6240 Clayton Rd., 63117. For more

information, call (314) 7688697.

Wed., June 20, 8 a.m., Heart Screenings. Screen for cholesterol, blood pressure, body fat analysis, and more for $20. SSM DePaul Medical Center, 12303 DePaul Dr., 63044. For more information, call 1-(866) 776-3627 or visit www.ssmhealth.com/heart.

Wed., June 20, 6:30 p.m., Infant Care Class. Helps parents with the care of an infant by demonstrating bathing, feeding, immunizations, and more. SSM DePaul Medical Center, 12303 DePaul Dr., 63044. For more information, call (314) 776-3627.

Fri., June 22, 6 p.m., Caliente forthe Cure 2012 Zumba Fitness Event. 2Hour Zumba®Fitness Event where 1005 of the registration fees goes directly to the Susan G Komen for the Cure St. Louis Affiliate®. There will be raffles, door prizes, vendors, t-shirt sales & special guests. Simon Recreation Center, SLU Campus, 3639 Laclede Ave., 63108. For more information, call (314) 724-7283.

Sat., June 23, 6:30 a.m., Wells Fargo Advisors presents The 14th Annual Susan G. Komen St. Louis Race forthe Cure. Raises funds for the local fight against breast cancer, celebrates breast cancer survivorship, and honors those who have lost their battle with the disease. Seventy-five percent of the net money raised stays in the St. Louis community to fund breast cancer screening, treatment, education and support programs. The remaining 25 percent goes toward breast cancer research. Downtown St. Louis, Market St. and Tucker Blvd., 63190. For more information, call (314) 5693900.

Sat., Jun. 23, 10 a.m. 13th Annual Charles Drew

Commemorative Blood Drive, Omega Center, 3900 Goodfellow St. Louis, MO 63120. For more information, call 1-800-RED CROSS

Sat., Jun. 16, 11 a.m., Bostick Temple Church of God in Christ Community Day, Free food, clowns, community info, health and wellness, live music, prayer station,games, giveaways, fun and prizes 1448 Hodiamont Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63112. For more information call (314) 2613766.

June 18 – 22, National Baptist Convention USA, Inc. hosts Congress of Christian Education 107th Annual Session. America’s Center, 701 Convention Plaza, 63101. For more information, call (718) 346-9290 or (314) 342-5036.

Sat., June 23, 9 a.m., The Union Missionary Baptist Church celebrates its annual 100 Women in White. 2957 Dayton St., 63106. For more information, call (314) 5357839) 377-9183 or (314) 3425036.

Through June 21, Entry deadline for TOPSCREEN FILM FESTIVALCONTEST, The festival is a one day event July 4, 2012 showcasing Christian student and non-student/professional or amateur film shorts (films 30 minutes or less) that reflect values such as: Love, Peace, Faith, Joy, Temperance, Humility, Goodness, Patience, Longsuffering, Redemption, Spirituality, Dignity, Equality, Diversity, Forgiveness, and in some way tells a Christian Story or is a spiritually inspiring story that appeals to the human spirit. Visit www.topsdachurch.org for entry details (click on “TOPSCREEN FILM FESTIVAL” tab)

“Man, I’m so proud of this guy,” Skeema said pointing to Poe. “I’m learning from him now, and I’m just so blessed to be a pupil again.”

That type of exchange between artists was the premise of SLUMfest’s creation.

“I believe in camaraderie more than competition,” Finsta said. “Because when there is more unity involved, everybody wins.”

They started out nearly 20 years ago as the odd men out. They blended together from different parts of St. Louis – plenty from South City –when North City was hot in the streets of hip-hop.

“We were the guys who didn’t fit on either side of it, and St. Louis hip-hop is divided like the civil war,” Skeema said.

“We couldn’t fit with the

Continued from C1

imaginary world – the world of Quidam – where she meets characters who encourage her to free her soul.

It’s not too far from Andre’s story, in a musical sense.

For 11 years, Andre had been making his living as a full-time local musician, playing with rich talent including jazz divas Denise Thimes and Mae Wheeler.

But when the recession hit, his three or four regularly weekly gigs turned into one gig a month. Gwendolyn, Andre’s wife, remembers counting change in the ashtray for gas money.

“We were just the ‘working poor’ and knew life had more to offer, but you have to put your feet on the floor and go for it,” she said.

In March 2009, Andre and Gwendolyn went to New York City for an audition with Cirque du Soleil. They had no money for a hotel room. He and Gwendolyn flew in with $60 in their pockets. For three days, they slept among the homeless in the LaGuardia airport.

North and we couldn’t fit with the South, and we just kind of busted out being who we were.”

They weren’t the typical hardcore ‘hood rappers, but not all the way underground either. Based on their experience, they took it upon themselves to build a unified front.

“It’s hard for us to get a foundation because of the ‘crabs in a barrel’ effect in St. Louis with rap,” Skeema said. “You have to know that you have to do whatever you can to get your home behind you.”

These days, there seems to be a trend where acquiring Twitter followers and Facebook friends can be mistaken for building an authentic fan base. But both the artists and the organizers hope that SLUMfest will become an essential stepping stone to the hip-hop scene.

More than anything, the point of SLUMfest is to get the hip-hop artists back to the basics of the craft.

“Worry about your talent

“It was a humbling experience,” he said. “We would try to find little areas to be by ourselves. We were constantly moving around for three days.”

Andre was the last person to audition out of about 100 people. And he got the gig. Cirque du Soleil hired him to perform as a full-time drummer on Quidam’s permanent world tour.

On Dec. 5, 2010 Andre began rehearsing in Montreal, Canada for the show. He traveled all over North America in 2011 and 2012, surrounded by top musicians and performers from around the world.

“I’m playing everyday,” he said. “From a professional standpoint, I’ve been able to acquire drum sponsorships and do videos and lot of things that I wouldn’t have been able to do before the circus.”

Boyd got his first taste of drumming when he was two years old, sitting on the lap of the pastor’s son at church. Drumming for church services became his life as soon he was able to reach the floor of the stool. His mother, Pastor Linda Boyd, founded the New Life Outreach Ministries, 3833 Saint

first – your skill – and just polish yourself,” Poe said. “Know what kind of person you want to present, what kind of rapper you want to be. Be honest. Know who you are and your total blueprint, and put that in your music. If you wouldn’t go to the store and buy it, then why put it out?”

This type of advice will be spoken and implied as they come together – for the sake of fellowship, learning opportunities and a good time in the name of hip-hop.

“All of us feel the same way about helping the hiphop community in St. Louis,” Finsta said. “For some of them, this is major – to get their shine on and make connections with some artists out there.

St. Louis Underground Music Festival 2012 will take place on Saturday, June 16 at 2 p.m. at the Atomic Cowboy, 4140 Manchester Ave., 63110. For more information, call (314) 442-8749.

Ferdinand Ave., in 1998.

“I’m getting a chance to go home to perform for my family and peers,” he said.

“Doing as much as I did in the music scene, going back to perform is really great.”

As part of the tour, Andre travels to a different city every Sunday.

“It’s definitely work,” he said. “but it’s rewarding. It’s a lot of fun to meet so many people from different nationalities and countries.”

In that sense, Andre is also living out another theme of the show. Quidam is defined as: a nameless passer-by, a solitary figure lingering on a street corner, a person rushing past and swallowed by the crowd.

“This is the place that beckons – a place for dreaming and genuine relations where all quidams, by proclaiming their individuality, can finally emerge from anonymity,” the show’s website states.

Andre said he’s excited to have his home community experience his new life and passion. He said the show has an allnew cast.

“We have so much fun,” he said. “It’s one of the circus’ masterpieces as far as artistry goes. I want to convey to my home, ‘Come out and support your homegrown.’”

Summer Jam 2012

The one and only Master P brought the house down at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre as one of the featured performers of Hot 104.1 FM’s Super Jam 2012 Saturday. He had the crowd amped from start to finish with classic hits from his No Limit rap dynasty.

Photo by Lawrence Bryant

FASHION

Continued from C1

If you are heavier on the bottom half of your body or “pear shaped”, you have to be careful about wearing shapes that make you look bigger on the bottom. Choosing tops that have a “blousy” effect will help balance out your upper body. Also, wearing jeans with a normal waist, and high pockets will make your bottom half look proportioned to the top.

Color: “Bold, Bright, Not Too Much White”

I LOVE color! It can be a “curvy” girl’s best friend. When paired with the right shape, color can be the easiest way to maximize your particular look.

SINGLE

Continued from C1

No, you didn’t. And when you told that bald-faced lie you didn’t think about how you’ll have make up a fake number –one that will ring on command when he says, “Let me call you from it right now, so I can lock you in.”

Bold and bright colors like coral, yellow, and fuchsia can be attention grabbing, and flattering when paired with the right fabric and clothing shape. If you aren’t comfortable being in bright blocks of color, a floral print can add “texture” to your look while still giving you that pop. Whether it be a dress or jeans, the floral print is a sure fire way to incorporate color into your look without being overwhelming.

I am not a big fan of WHITE! It’s not forgiving nor does it add dimension to your look. White acts as a highlighter and brings attention to your flaws. White can be paired with other colors to create a balance of color, but I would refrain from wearing it on your problem areas.

No matter what your body shape/type is, you can always look “HOT” during the summer. Once you learn what types of clothes work for your

You tell him that you’ve changed your number three times since you saw him last and you don’t remember it – and you left your phone at home. He asks if he can get at you on Facebook.

Just as you weasel your way out of the close encounter of the awkward kind by promising a Twitter direct message with your new phone number as he toys with his phone trying to erase the old contact number, your phone rings … it’s him.

Caught!

“Look, did I do something wrong?” he says, trying to make sense of your dust mission. “I thought things went great. I’m not trying to sweat you; I just want to figure out … I thought we were cool, that things were good. I’m not trying to be a lame, but I don’t know … what did I do?”

“Nothing,” she replies. It was the truth.

But seeing him reminds her

body, you don’t have to hide your curves during the summer months. As long as you are conscience of your body type you can try new styles and trends. You can be stylish, daring, and ultimately gorgeous from head to toe all while claiming your curves.

Pairing a white pant with a bright top can add balance to your color pallet without washing you out. Yellow chiffon is a beautiful fabric and color

be afraid to

a

It can be a sophisticated,

look, while still keeping you cool during these hot months. If you’re going on a date, or making power moves, this dress can be ideal for all body types. It has structure, so it holds you in, giving your curves definition. You can pair it with a light cardigan for the day time or a funky blazer for the evening.

of what she did. She knows she gave someone else the power – no, she didn’t; she took it from herself – to go against everything she believes in for the sake of a meaningless tryst. It’s the pits. Despite what they say, most women aren’t built to deal with the aftermath of a one-night stand – even if they’ve built up a resistance.

“How do I tell him I don’t like him without feeling like a bad person?” she thinks to herself. “I don’t want to hurt his feelings, he might really like me.” He doesn’t care. But he knows by acting like he does and getting YOU into YOUR feelings, he has a small window to transition casual sex into sympathy sex. And as your emotional rollercoaster continues for a man you could truly care less about, he’s just along for the free ride.

By Melanie Adams

‘The Civil War, so what?’

History Museum’s Teens Make History Players open new play

The year marks the 150th anniversary of the Civil War which gives us an opportunity to reflect on the war’s lasting legacy. As a border state, Missouri’s legacy with the war is one of divisiveness that is still felt today. The Missouri History Museum’s Teens Make History Players explore this legacy of the Civil War in their new play, The Civil War, So What? which opened on Saturday, June 9 at 11:30 a.m.

The Teens Make History Players are a group of students who research, write, and perform their own plays based on historical events. In the past they have tackled subjects such as the East St. Louis Race Riots and the legacy of Katherine Dunham. In those plays the students use the Museum’s library and research center to help craft their script and develop their characters. Instead of turning to the history books to learn about the legacy of the Civil War, the students spent the last year talking to museum visitors and staff as well as historians about their thoughts on the Civil War. These thoughts were then compiled and put into a 40 minute play targeted at middle and high school students. In addition to listening to the public’s responses, the students also had some of their own thoughts on the Civil War.

“In learning about the Civil War, I realized that we are still affected by the decisions that were made back then. If the war never happened, Interracial couples would never have been allowed. Being bi-racial I wouldn’t be here today.”

“The most intriguing aspect of the Civil War is the determination displayed by former slaves, such as Spotswood Rice. Rice risked his life and the lives of his family in order to fight for the freedom of blacks.”

“The Civil War matters today because of the simple fact that the struggle for equal rights is still being fought and debated over today.

Learning about the Civil War in Civil War, So What? has affected my current viewpoint on my nation’s past.”

The play follows the journey of Avery Kid (get it, Every Kid) as he tries to figure out why he

The Missouri History Museum’s Teens Make History Players opened their new play The Civil War, So What? on Saturday, June 9 at 11:30 a.m.

should study Civil War. As with most students, the question on his mind is “How will this help me in later life?”

(and “Is this on the test?”) On his journey he encounters individuals who share their thoughts and beliefs about the war, and he comes to see the war as not only history, but as something that has an effect on his present situation.

The Teens Make History Players are a group of diverse high school students who spent six weeks in the Museum’s Teens Make History Academy learning about the different departments within a museum. After the six weeks the teens were then able to audition to become members of the Teens Make History Players. To make sure they get the recognition they deserve for their hard work, below is a list of the students selected to be a part of this year’s theater group:

• Kayla Moore, Mary Institute Country Day School

• Johari Gillespie, Life for Life Academy

• Stanford Cooper, Crossroads Academy

• Claire Tschampel, University City

• Zibiah Hoskins, University City

• Xavier Bady, Central VPA

• Will Moore, Clyde C. Miller Academy

• Elie Hudson, University City

• Totyanna Allen, McCluer High School.

This year we also have four students graduating whom we will be sending off to college in the fall. They are serving as mentors to the new students over the summer:

• Hadiyah Edwards, graduate of Whitfield High School, attending Cornell University

• Romyius Gause, Graduate of University City High School, attending American Academy for Dramatic Arts

• Lisa Parker, graduate of University City High School, attending University of Missouri-Columbia

• Douglas Bell, graduate of Soldan High School, attending Globe Institute of Technology

Civil War, So What?

Teens Make History Players Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays 11:30 a.m. Lee Auditorium • FREE 45 minutes (with discussion)

Two reasons to celebrate

Beaumont High School’s 50th reunion forJanuary and June classes of 1962 will be held on September 15, 2012. Addresses needed: Send name, address, phone number and email address to: beaumontclass@comcast.net.

Hadley Tech Classes of “6263” will be celebrating their 50th class reunion at the Marriott Hotel St. Louis Airport, October 12-14, 2012. For more information contact: Hellon Jefferson at 314-3073681, Virdell Stennis at 314773-8177 or Wilhelmina Baker at 314-588-0779.

Kinloch Reunion; June 29, 30, July 1, 2012 at St Louis Renaissance Hotel. For infor-

~ CELEBRATIONS ~

Birthdays

PeterJames Jackson (4) —June 12

mation contactBernice Noah Fortune 314-303-9618.

Northwest High School Class of 1972: Friday, July 20, Rooftop Party, 7 pm at Moonrise Hotel on Delmar in the Loop. No cover, open to public, food/drinks on your own. Saturday, July 21, Mount Pleasant Winery in Augusta, MO. Bus leaves at 1 pm ($25) from Signature Room parking lot, 9006 Overland Plaza, Live band at 5 pm, Dinner ($45) at 6 pm with music by classmate Billy Tyler. Wine tasting at your own expense. Call “Wine” at 314-420-7301 for more information.

O.N.R.I Wanted: New members to join Old Neighborhood Reunion, Inc . Streets: Cass, Elliot, Garrison, Glasgow, Leffingwell, Madison, Sheridan, The Huts. Call 3822038, 660-9981 or 534-2282.

Soldan All Class Alumni Picnic 2012; Alumni from Soldan/Blewett , Soldan, Soldan International; August 18, 2012, 10 a.m.—6 p.m. at Blanchette Park, 1900 W. Randolph St., St. Charles, MO; Food/Music/Prizes/Memorabili

Princess Naia turns 5

Naia Ta’Shay Edwards will turn 5 on June 16, 2012. She will be a Kindergartener at Ashland Elementary School for the 2012-13 school year. We love you and hope you enjoy your special day! You are our beautiful princess! Love, Mommy & Daddy (Kimberly & Kenneth Edwards)

Valeda Keys and Vanessa Robinson (40)—June 18

a; Adults $15 / Children $8 (412); Tickets can be purchased at Legacy Book / Cafe’, 5249 Delmar (at Union); 314-3612182; Visit Website: http://www.70cos.org/. Everyone is welcome.

SumnerHigh School Class of 1952 will hold its 60th class reunion August 10-11, 2012 at the Renaissance St. Louis Airport Hotel. We would like to hear from all graduates. For more information, contact: Mary McCauley at 314-3835017 or email mmccaul8@sbcglobal.net.

SumnerClass of 1964 Reunion Committee sponsoring a Nite at the Races at Fairmont Park, Sat. July 14, 610; Leaving Buzz Westfall Plaza at 6pm; first come first served for transportation. cost $45.00 includes buffet at the track and entry; money orders only made payable to Class of 64 and send to PO Box 8204, St. Louis, 63156. Contact Fannie Rogers (Clark) 3554337.

SumnerClass of 1992 planning group is getting ready to celebrate their20th Class

Centenarian

Keanna Smith (15)—June 18

Reunion on July 20, 21, 22, 2012. For more information contact Karen Pickensat (314) 378-8270, Patricia Matz at(314) 610-4343, Melissa Baylarckat (314) 276-3262 or Joe Westbrook at (314) 2655631 for questions.

Vashon 1943 classes looking to hold their 70th reunion in the year 2013. We would like to know your interest in attending, as soon as possible, so that we can move forward with plans. Contact: Beatrice (Anderson) Bell, (314) 9185973, email: jaybee47@swbell.net or Alonzo Bouie, (314) 385-1937.

Vashon High School Class of 1977 is planning its 35th reunion for August 10-12, 2012 and looking for all class-

Bernice Berry will celebrate her 101st birthday on June 18, 2012. She lives independently and still does her own cooking. She is a member of Memorial Missionary Baptist Church. Mother Berry says she has been traveling this road for a long time and she’s not tired yet!

mates to participate with the planning.For more information email your contact information to Vashonclassof77@yahoo.co m.

SumnerHigh School classes of 1946-1951 will be celebrating their “ninth” fouryear reunion August 24-26, 2012, at the Airport Marriott Hotel, 10700 Pear Tree Lane in St. Louis. We’re still in the process of rounding up all of our graduates and would like very much for you to contact us, as soon as possible if you would like to be included in this much anticipated event. Call Barbara Campbell Hunt for additional information at 636-561-6796.

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

Reunion notices are free of charge and based on space availability. We prefer that notices be emailed to us! However, notices may also be sent by mail to:

Kate Daniel, 4242 Lindell Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63108. Deadline is 10 a.m. on Friday.

If you’d like your class to be featured in a reunion profile, email or mail photos to us. Our email address is: reunions@ stlamerican.com

Tim and Sharon Lewis will celebrate their 23rd wedding anniversary on June 17, 2012. Sharon will also celebrate her birthday on June 18.

Church, school offer free summer meals

ASA Christian Academy partners with Christ Our Redeemer AME Church

By Sandra Jordan Of The St. Louis American

Many children get their best meals at school. Now that school is out, a North St. Louis County church and a private school are providing nutritious meals to schoolaged kids over the summer break.

The Summer Feeding Program at Christ Our Redeemer AME Church in Blackjack, Mo. is welcoming all children, youth and teens between the ages of 6-18 for free breakfast and lunch three days per week. Breakfast is served from 8:15 a.m. – 9:00 a.m., and lunch is served from 11 a.m. until 12:15 p.m. every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from Friday, June 1 through Friday, August 10. The church is located at 13820 Old Jamestown Rd.

No proof of residency or income is required.

Rev. Edmund E. Lowe Sr., pastor at the church, said the program is governmentfunded based on the number of children eligible for free and reduced lunch at the nearest elementary school. Jamestown Elementary is next door to the church, where Lowe said 68 percent of students are eligible for free or reduced lunch.

“The program is a stop gap for those families who traditionally would have been receiving free or reduced meals during the school year,” Lowe said. “It’s an opportunity for them to still receive lunch and breakfast.”

Each meal includes milk, a grain, a protein and a vegetable/ fruit.

Children will also be able to keep their learning skills sharp during the summer months. Between breakfast and lunch on Wednesdays at the church, children can participate in story-telling, reading enrichment and math.

“Beginning the third week, we’ll have it every day Monday, Wednesday and

Friday,” Lowe said. “The high school students are using this for their community service hours, so this is working out very nicely.”

The feeding program at the church is in partnership with ASA Christian Academy, which is also offering a Summer Feeding Program between 8-9 a.m. for breakfast and 11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Monday –Friday.

ASA Christian Academy is located at 8390 Latty in Hazelwood. Between meals, ASA is offering youth a summer sports camp.

“In between breakfast and lunch they can play different sports – basketball, soccer and softball,” said Janet Strickland, head of school.

Volunteers are working both locations and more volunteers are needed.

Calling in advance is preferable, but not necessary if you plan to bring youth to ensure adequate preparation and meal counts.

Contact Christ Our Redeemer AME Church at 314-741-4222 or contact ASA Christian Academy at 314-524-4272.

The Religion News Service

The Religion News Service, headquartered in the University of Missouri School of Journalism, has launched a network of websites to cover national and local religion news.

Religion News Service is a national wire service that recently converted from a for-profit to a nonprofit news outlet. In January, RNS re-launched its website, making all its content directly available to the public for the first time in its 78-year history.

The main RNS website, www. religionnews.com, incorporates religion news and blogs from experts on different religious topics.

The title used for this article is a partial citation from Paul’s powerful message (Acts 17:24-28). To clearly and effectively communicate the thoughts that will follow, there is the need to define two terms that will serve as themes.

First, the term substance is defined as: what a thing consist of; matter; the main or important part of a person. In regards to the true identity of those that have encountered the bornagain experience, our identifiable substance is Christ. This Christ is our substance! Christ’s character serves as our Light to this world.

This divine Substance of ours can be confirmed by the scripture that says that, “Christ lives in me;” (Gal. 2:20). Not only does God give us His Spirit, we also have His indwelling nature that comes to us in the form of Christ. Due to this wonderful manifestation that God orchestrates through our faith, we have a priceless treasure on the inside of us. This heavenly process is acknowledged as man’s spirit becoming re-generated. What a glorious Substance we have in the form of Christ Jesus! Christ living in us becomes that matter; that important thing; that real thing that showcases my new life. Praise God!

Message

From a natural perspective, every living organism must have an energy source of life if it is going to function properly. This ideology must also be woven into the belief systems of Christians. If we, God’s saved citizens, are expected to function properly while dealing with all the challenges of this life; we need to have some sustenance.

Secondly, the term sustenance is defined as: the means of be sustained; nourishment; means of living. Since we regard Christ “in us” as being The Substance reflected to a God-less generation; we should aim toward establishing sustenance for our lives with Christ. A spiritual intimacy (prayer) with The Lord. This is coupled with having daily fellowship in The Lord’s Word and special times given toward fasting. Christianity that is practiced with total abandonment involves expressing the Substance within us and hungering for the Sustenance that preserves us. We should practice what our inward Substance (Christ) requires. We should sacrifice the things that would get in the way of having spiritual fellowship. My dear friends, some storms have our name written upon them! Christ is our Substance. Let our spiritual fellowship help create our sustenance.

The American is accepting Inspirational Messages from the community. Send your column (no more than 400 words) as a Word document and pasted text to cking@stlamerican.

Julius Simms

ASA Christian Academy Executive Director Janet Strickland serves lunch to neighborhood children Aniya and Anisha Cheeks, both 8, with Jayce Barnes, 9. The academy partners with Christ Our Redeemer AME Church in Blackjack, Mo. to participate in the government-funded program that is based on the number of children eligible for free and reduced lunches at the nearest elementary school. Photo by Wiley Price

ST. LOUIS AMERICAN

UMSL’S Bridge Program receives national award

Also, Summer Entrepreneurship Academy for Area High School Students

American staff

After years of presenting hundreds of awards to students and their organizations, Curt Coonrod got to accept one for his team.

The Bridge Program at the University of Missouri–St. Louis was recognized by the College Board for its commitment and efforts to positively impact the African-American community. Coonrod, UMSL’s vice provost for Student Affairs, accepted the Dr. Asa G. Hilliard Model of Excellence award on April 27 at the College Board’s 2012 A Dream Deferred: The Future of African American Education conference in Los Angeles.

“I am extremely proud of the tremendous work the Bridge Program has done for more than 26 years preparing young students for postsecondary educational opportunities,” Coonrod said.

“Receiving the Dr. Asa G. Hilliard award is an incredible

honor and recognizes the significant impact the Bridge Program has had and continues to have on the lives of young people in the St. Louis metropolitan region.” Millions of students each

year use College Board programs and services to transition into college. They include the widely used SATand PSATtests and the Advanced Placement Program.

The Bridge Program also was recognized for encouraging the African American community to strive for academic success. As the growing rate of

Curt Coonrod,(center),vice provost for student affairs, recently brought home the Dr.Asa G.Hilliard Models of Excellence Recognition for the UMSL Bridge Program for their commitment and efforts to positively impact AfricanAmericanstudents.Coonrod presented the award to the Bridge team (from left): Kimberly Edwards,coordinator; Channon Peoples,assistant director;Natissia Small, director;Lester McQuaid, coordinator;and Lisa Sturgeon, office support staff.

students unprepared for college steadily increases, Bridge offers effective programming to address and equip area students with competencies critical for the transition to college. Bridge maintains an unmatched 100 percent college matriculation rate. On average, 41 percent of Bridge participants have sought majors in

math, science, engineering and technological fields.

“We are honored to receive recognition by the College Board for our commitment to serve students and parents in the St. Louis community,” said Natissia Small, assistant dean of students and director of the Bridge program.

“It is our charge to continue to offer services necessary for addressing barriers that impede college access.

In its 26th year, the precollegiate program provides a Saturday Academy consisting of intensive academic programs for students in grades 9 through 12; a four week Summer Academy for students in grades 9 and 10; Saturday Parent Academy and Support Group providing workshops to promote parental engagement and success of their collegebound students. It also offers after-school clubs in selected schools throughout the region dedicated to research and competitions in math and science.

Summer Entrepreneurship Academy

The Center for Entrepreneurship at Saint Louis University’s John Cook School of Business will host the 2012 Allsup Summer Entrepreneurship Academy Monday-Friday, July 23-27, at John and Lucy Cook Hall, 3674 Lindell Boulevard.

The week offers high school students (incoming freshmen to outgoing seniors) an opportunity to learn entrepreneurial concepts and principles, including how to start their own businesses. The academy uses experiential learning, problem solving and case studies to educate young people on how to start and operate a business while instilling an understanding of the entrepreneurial mindset.

The goal of the academy is to help students develop a business concept. The class also provides interaction with entrepreneurs and local professionals to develop possible mentor relationships and internship opportunities.

The academy will meet from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. MondayThursday. Friday will be spent presenting the business concepts created by the students to a panel of judges and cash prizes are awarded.

The tuition for the academy is $495. Scholarships are available based on high school GPA, activities in and out of the school environment, financial need and the desire to attend. Enrollment is limited. Go to http://www.slu.edu/ Documents/business/ssce/Allsu pSummerEntAcademy.pdf for a 2012 brochure and registration form.

For additional information contact Jeanne Rhodes in the Center for Entrepreneurship at rhodesja@SLU.EDU or (314) 977-2538.

Photo by August Jennewein

Lewis Hamilton, 27, Formula One points leader takes a walk between racing action with his girlfriend, Nicole Scherzinger,33, of Pussycat Dolls and “Dancing with the Stars” fame last weekend in Montreal. Hamilton reunited with Scherzinger earlier this year after briefly dating the former Miss Grenada, Vivian Burkhardt,26. Courtesy of The Gazette/ Dario Ayala

Super Jam 2012: The Introduction. I must say that I didn’t expect it, but Hot 104.1 FM’s SJ 2012 has quietly become my favorite Super Jam to date. The afternoon line-up started on the lowest of notes thanks to the OTY (Old, tired young) OMG Girls. I’m sorry to do this to one of my favorite hip-hop couples’ offspring, but nobody bothered with what they were selling. My little niece’s 6th grade slumber party talent showcase was servin’ more than those tired do-overs they were whipping those assorted colors of weave to. And that one with the tutu nestled under her armpits was just... Anyway, Elle Varner did fair enough, but the folks were still in underwhelmed-mode because of the OTYs. But thanks to repping STL/ESL, Fresco Kane and all 943 members of his on-stage entourage got the crowd hype with hits from his Gena days. And in what has become a Super Jam tradition, Murphy Lee stepped out and St. Louis jumped out of the seats – this time during Fresco’s set. Diggy was cute – and got the tween girls into it as he rapped along to his greatest hits. While his cat face has a hold on my soul, Miguel didn’t give me life with his set. And though Master P deserves his props for tearin’ the house down, Few Chainz – not to be confused with Two Chainzz – was all the rage among the 12-17 age group and had the kids bustlin’ back to their seats.

SJ: The main attractions. Few Chainz was the perfect set up for what would be the segment of SJ 2012 that STILL has people talking. When Master P’s No Limit and Luey V Gang stepped on stage the entire Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre went BANANAS. He did the classic No Limit and reminded me why I used to be posted up at Streetside EVERY Tuesday! And when Romeo went topless I thought I was going to need the paramedics for heat exhaustion treatment. I hadn’t seen a non-headliner get so much love ever in Super Jam history…and rightfully so! Somebody asked me how Super Jam was and my reply was “uhhhhhhh na na nan na.” Don’t tell anyone, but now I’m kind of regrettin’ backing out of getting “No Limit” tatted across my back in 1996. I wasn’t blown away by Wale, but the folks seemed pleased enough. I didn’t get into him until my beloved Miguel Meow came back out and redeemed himself with “Lotus Flower Bomb.” But Jeezy came out and the second half came full circle – from No Limit’s OG Trap Music, to Jeezy’s current standing as Trap rap master. Folks sat tight through his WHOLE SET too – which I can’t say for last year’s headliner Ludacris. By the time Luda got to “Throw them Bows” I was bumpin’ elbows with the atmosphere because of the mass exodus. But SJ 2012 had the folks put until the encore thanks to Jeezy and his ratchet rap classics. I’m willing to bet somebody was singing “Lose My Mind” in their head at altar prayer the next morning.

Super Jam: The after party (ies). I feel like this was the Super Jam edition of Partyline, but I think it was warranted. Anyway, after leaving the Verizon Amphitheatre I made my rounds and y’all must have changed into your freakum wear while waiting in the parking lot’s exit line because by the time I arrived in the streets y’all were already out and about. The Loft had a line all the way to the Pappy’s and the folks were tearing the club up in rare form. The City seemed to have the star power though. Fresco, Wale and Miguel were in the house and the girls were waving glowsticks in all forms and fashion-clamorin’ for a seat in VIP. To this I must offer a tidbit of advice. Ladies, if you are going to hunch, hop and do the most to let everyone know you’re in the booth with the stars please be mindful of your undergarment game (or lack thereof) if it’s one of those raised level situations. Because while you’re putting in work trying to be seen, somebody below is seeing all of your business.

Living through I am A Survivor. As much as I ADORE Orlando “Pretty Boy” Watson and what he was trying to do with his 2nd Annual Survivor Party/ Cancer Awareness Event, I must say that the evening was a miss. It was set up to be a grand slam with the sexy venue, worthy cause and a-list people. And Orlando typically stays winning, but I’m charging this one to the game of poor event planning. First off people came to party, but because all of the speakers were grouped together in the first part of the evening the energy never quite kicked off. For next year what I recommend is: speaker, performance, music, speaker, music, music, dance floor. The guests were unruly after what felt like 90 minutes of straight lecture and had their own side conversations louder than the folks at the podium. I don’t think they would have been that blatantly out of pocket had the sound not been so bad that the speakers sounded like Charlie Brown’s teachers on the microphone. The sound spelled trouble for Aloha MiSho and Carl Thomas’ performances too. I really could barely hear Aloha at all and by the time Carl Thomas hit the stage in his glorious white denim TAPS (tight [expletive] pants), the folks had eased on down the road and he was performing to 1/3 full house. He clearly was giving his all, but sounded like he was singing over the phone via satellite from Europe through the receiver of a worn out rotary device. The folks looked delightful though. I will say that Orlando hit the ball out of the park by the type of people who came out. It was a perfectly blended crowd of the young, black and fabulous and grown and sexy. Everybody looked so good that it was hard for me to decide who did it best. But I’m going to say that fashion designer Sherrell Hall and her Jane Jetson inspired swag gave me the most life. The way the folks were serving in their white also gave me a tough time determining the fashion disaster. But it was a three-way tie from these girls who obviously made their outfits from the same roll of white lamee spandex material. They managed to pull together two freakum dresses and some hot pants, but quite honestly they looked like some solid gold dancers who lost a battle with a bottle of Clorox.

Father’s Day with the Dramatics. For those of y’all with fathers that catch life from live music, the Ambassador is the place to be for them with a show that features good old soul classics. The Dramatics with LJ Reynolds will be headlining – and y’all KNOW how they do. But Kim Massie isn’t to be slept on either! The show is on Sunday, June 17 at the Ambassador. The doors open at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 7:15 p.m.

Rapper Fresco Kane with 104.1’s A-Plus after Kane’s SJ 2012 performance Saturday afternoon @ The Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre

The Stunning Jarrece and Meyl were visions in white Sunday night @ The I’m a Survivor Cancer benefit party @ The Planetarium

Chastity and Nikki get up close and personal with R&B singer Miguel @ Hot 104.1’s Super Jam Saturday afternoon

Two lucky fans enjoyed a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to strike a pose with No Limit’s Romeo Miller Saturday night @ The Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre

DNA Clothing Store owner Nate and his brother Will celebrate the store’s grand opening Friday night

Kayla and Jada got in on the Super Jam afterparty action Saturday night @ The Loft

and Shirmond peep the threads that will now

St. Louis’s own Murphy Lee with fellow hit makers R&B Singer Elle Varner and rapper Wale backstage @ Super Jam 2012 Saturday @ Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre

Orlando Watson and his lovely wife Michelle with R&B Singer Carl Thomas before his concert segment @ the 2nd Annual I’m A Survivor All White Party Sunday night @ the James S. McDonnell Planetarium

LLC group members Larry, Lamont, and Charles were eager to take the stage for their Back Together Again performance Friday night @ The Ambassador Celebrity Swagger Snap of the Week

Photos by Lawrence Bryant