June 19th, 2025 edition by The St. Louis American

St. LouiS AmericAn

Residents file suit against state control over SLMPD

By Ashley Winters St. Louis American

St. Louis resident Jamala Rogers and Mike Milton are challenging Missouri’s legislative attempt to usurp control of the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department (SLMPD) through House Bill 495.

In a lawsuit filed on their behalf by ArchCity Defenders, Rogers and Milton maintain that the law violates the Missouri Constitution by imposing special legislation on a single jurisdiction and by levying an unfunded mandate against St. Louis City taxpayers.

“As we can see from recent legislative sessions, this is a pattern of overturning the vision of everyday people who are living and trying to make St. Louis home, despite extreme obstacles,” says Blake Strode, Executive Director of ArchCity Defenders.

“Particularly, in this post-tornado landscape, it is clear that public safety means a lot of things: we need money for things like emergency systems,

Charles Barnes marches through downtown St. Louis carrying an American flag during the ‘No Kings’ protest on Saturday, June 15, 2025. Demonstrators made their way through downtown demanding the preservation of democracy and civil liberties. “This is everyone’s fight,” Barnes said, emphasizing the shared responsibility to stand up against authoritarianism.

Ferguson defunding consent decree

County NAACP says no

By Sylvester Brown, Jr.

St. Louis American

In Aug. 2016, two years after the police shooting death of Michael Brown, Jr., U.S. District Judge Catherine Perry approved a 131-page consent agreement between the City of Ferguson and the U. S. Justice Department.

Demonstrations in 2014 over

Brown’s questionable death prompted the department’s investigation into the city’s police and court practices. The result was a 105-page report alleging patterns of illegal stops, searches, arrests and routine violations of citizen’s constitutional rights -driven partly by racial bias. The decree outlined fundamental changes including a method to track compliance, police body cameras, better

Kwame remains on scene in devastated O’Fallon Park

police training and a means to end the court’s practice of extorting money from poor people with excessive and spiraling fines.

The Ferguson City Council approved the decree in its entirety in 2016 but only after the Justice Department threatened to sue after it tried to amend parts of the decree.

Tornado relief concert held Tuesday

By Alvin A. Reid St. Louis American

Steve Ewing, founder of Steve’s Hot Dogs, was driving east from downtown toward his restaurant in the Delmar Maker District on afternoon of May 16, 2025.

By the time the usually short trek had ended, parts of the St. Louis area had been slammed by a tornado that left catastrophic damage totaling at least $1.6 billion.

“I was trying to make my way back,” Ewing said during the Build Back the Block tornado relief concert Tuesday evening at the Maker District at Delmar and Union.

“I was thinking ‘the sky looks terrible’ as I was driving.”

Steve’s Hot Dogs and The Fountain were directly impacted by the storm and, like thousands of other businesses, were forced to shut down.

Debate continues in Senate

By Alvin A. Reid St. Louis American

According to a study by Urban Institute and Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, the House-approved bill dramatically cutting Medicaid funding now being debated by the Senate would have a cataclysmic impact on American healthcare. Analysis concludes that hospitals would lose $321 billion in spending from the reconciliation process, physicians would face an $81 billion cut, and spending on prescription drugs would decline by $191 billion from 2025 to 2034.

During that same decade, U.S. hospitals would deal with a $63 billion increase in uncompensated care. services sought by patients and other providers must be delivered without reimbursement.

A high five for the departed Bennie Lewis

SPORTS

Legendary high school basketball coach Bennie Lewis, the

The Kwame Building Group and its philanthropic arm, Kwame Charitable Foundation, have constructed teams to provide immediate relief for the tornado survivors.

Jamala Rogers, co-founder and executive director of the Organization for Black Struggle.

Photo by Lawrence Bryant

Photo courtesy of ArchCity Defenders

Steve Ewing

‘No Kings’

Tyrese visits his dad in STL for Father’s Day

Singer and actor Tyrese spent Father’s Day connecting with his St. Louis family during a surprise visit that he partly documented on Facebook Live.

“I just popped up in St. Louis –where my father and my mother was raised,” Tyrese said in the video. “The majority of my physical family is out here in St. Louis.”

The Los Angeles native is a grandson of the late Bishop Willie Ellis, longtime pastor of New Northside Missionary Baptist Church. He said Ellis told him his last name is Gibson because when unwed parents had a baby, the child was automatically given the mother’s last name.

“My name would have been Tyrese Ellis,” Tyrese said. “But my father was given the last name Gibson. He was Tyrone Gibson and therefore my name is Tyrese Gibson.”

As he approached the residence, he gave context for the visit.

“My father does not know I’m here,” he continued. “My father is dealing with stage four cancer – and I’m about to

surprise him. I’ve had a strained relationship with my father over the years. But you’ve got to put all that stuff to the side.”

The actual reunion was private. Tyrese ended the video just as someone opened the door to the home.

Ananda Lewis passes at 52 Television personality Ananda Lewis passed away on Wednesday, June 11 after a courageous battle with breast cancer. She was 52.

“As the host of BET’s ‘Teen Summit,’ she didn’t just lead conversations—she sparked change, empowering a generation to speak up, love themselves, and think deeper,” BET said in a tribute to her on their social media channels. “Her impact lives on through the countless lives she touched, both on and off screen.”

Her sister Lakshmi Lewis announced news of her death in a Facebook post.

“She’s free, and in His heavenly arms,” she wrote. “Lord, rest her soul.”

Born in Los Angeles and raised in San Diego, Lewis was a graduate of Howard University, She captured the attention of mainstream pop ular culture when she became a VJ for MTV in 1997. Lewis hosted some of the network’s

most popular shows like “Hot Zone” and “Total Request Live.” In 1999, she was dubbed “the hip-hop generation’s reigning ‘It Girl’ by The New York Times

R. Kelly seeking release from prison, claims his life is in jeopardy

R. Kelly, who is currently serving a 30-year prison sentence for multiple sex crimes, is seeking to be released from prison, claiming jail officials attempted to solicit a fellow inmate to kill him.

In a court filing last week, Kelly asked a judge to be released from the Federal Correctional Institution in Butner, North Carolina.

Kelly claims a prison officer “illegally accessed and stole a series of phone calls and emails” between the former musician and a woman and his attorney, according to the motion. He also alleges a former cellmate stole “attorney-client correspondence” and shared the letters with prosecutors ahead of his trial in New York.

Kelly alleges that prison officials tried to have him killed to stop this information from being released.

“R. Kelly’s life is being

threatened because of his decision to stand up and expose the violation of his constitutional rights made by corrupt prosecutors who use Bureau of Prisons officers and cooperating witnesses to facilitate these violations,” Kelly’s attorney said in a statement shared with The Hollywood Reporter.

Silentó sentenced for killing cousin

DeKalb County District Attorney Sherry Boston announced on Wednesday, June 11 that Ricky Lamar Hawk, 27, a rapper known professionally as Silentó, pleaded guilty to charges for the 2021 shooting death of his cousin.

Hawk pleaded “guilty but mentally ill” to voluntary manslaughter, aggravated assault, possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime and concealing the death of another in connection to the death of Frederick Rooks III

DeKalb County Superior Court Judge Courtney Johnson, who presided over the plea hearing, sentenced Hawk to 30 years in prison.

Silentó is best known for the song “Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae).”

Sources: Allhiphop.com, Facebook.com, The Hollywood Reporter, WSBTV.com

Ananda Lewis

“[We] have to go as far as necessary to protect our Constitution”

- Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson’s words of warning to President Trump

NAACP County Branch holds 88th Freedom Fund Dinner

‘Keep

By Alvin A. Reid St. Louis American

The NAACP St. Louis County branch held its 88th Annual Freedom Fund Dinner on a Saturday that saw thousands St. Louis area residents peacefully protesting the Trump administration.

An evening earlier, a pair of Minnesota state legislature members were shot and killed in what are being described as “politically motivated killings,” by Gov. Tim Walz.

This June 14 was celebratory and somber for the County NAACP following the nation’s tumultuous week, which included unprovoked Israeli attacks on Iran with American assistance.

This was not lost its president John Bowman.

“I’ve had to re-write my speech five times,” he said at the Marriott St. Louis, site of the dinner.

“The historical value is why people stay connected to the NAACP. Discrimination, unfair housing, [attacks on] education; it’s like things have been rolled back to the 1800s.

“The NAACP is fully engaged. We are called freedom fighters. We are not afraid to fight.”

Bowman said, “the race-baiting message sent out by political leaders at the top,” played a role in the tragic deaths in Minnesota.

“Elections certainly do have consequences. Severe consequences,” he said.

“No one is going to save us. We must be informed. We must vote.

The NAACP offered a voter registration table prominently in the lobby outside the Mariott ballroom.

Bowman also said the recent tornado that swept through the parts of the region and caused catastrophic damage on the city’s north side “once again showed how slow and uneven the response can be when Black and brown communities are in crisis.”

“It happened during COVID. Help didn’t show up any quicker than it did this time.”

Charlie Dooley, former St. Louis County executive and NAACP County Chapter 1st vice president, said the evening of awards and recognition is important as it serves as the chapter’s largest fundraiser.

“This is a great night. It’s exciting to be here,” he said.

County Executive Dr. Sam Page was in attendance, saying, “In the NAACP’s 115-year history, it has stood up for freedoms.”

“This is a very critical time in the history of our nation. Thousands of people said, ‘we’ve had enough.’ Folks have the energy, and the NAACP will continue to be at the forefront of the conversation,” said Page.

“Our country has always responded to what is viewed to be inhumane and unjust. There is greater urgency now and people understand this moment is important.”

Wellness Center, received the Community Leadership Award.

Dr. Donald M. Suggs, St. Louis American publisher and executive editor, received the Black Press Vanguard Award.

Charlie Dooley, who was the first African American to hold the County Executive office, received the Excellence in Community Leadership Award.

Dr. Matifadza (Mati) Hlatshwayo Davis, MD, MPH, FIDSA, the former St. Louis health director and international medical contributor, received the Excellence in Healthcare Award.

Carolyn Seward, Family and Workforce Centers of America/ MET Center president and CEO, received the Community Leadership Award.

Dr. Alexander Heatrice, DDS, MPH, MS, of the Premier Institute of Oral and Facial Surgery, received the Surgical Innovation Award,

Zebrina Looney, president of the NAACP St. Charles County Branch, received the W.E.B. DuBois Civil Rights Award.

“This is a great night. It’s exciting to be here,” he said.

Bakari Sellers, a civil rights attorney and CNN political analyst delivered the evening’s keynote address.

“During the [Barack] Obama administration, we did a better job taking care of each other,” said Sellers who was elected to the South Carolina House at age 22 in 2006

“We have to return to that, anything other than that will not do.” Sellers also served on Obama’s South Carolina steering committee in 2008.

He said the political rhetoric of the present, “may have been a motivating factor” in the Minnesota violence.

Last week, Sellers said on CNN, “You can’t look at what is happening in California in a vacuum. The attacks on journalism, law firms, judges, and higher education; none are happening in vacuum.”

“We are drifting toward authoritarianism.”

The NAACP County Branch also honored a host of community icons.

Ollie Stewart, executive director and founder of the Southside

Kayla Reed, Action St. Louis co-founder and executive director, received the Leadership and Community Impact Award.

Ohun Ashe, For the Culture STL founder, received the Grassroots Community Award.

“The NAACP has remained committed to defending our rights, protecting our youth, and advocating for equity across housing, healthcare, education, and the economy,” said Bowman.

“This dinner is not only a celebration of that work, but also a recommitment to each other and the future we build together.”

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Photo by Lois Ingrum / NAACP

The NAACP St. Louis County Branch celebrated it 88th

Annual Freedom Fund Dinner ‘Keep Advancing’ on June 14, 2025, at the Marriott St. Louis Airport. From left are Olivia Martin, Freedom Fund Dinner chair; Ollie Stewart, Southside Wellness Center founder/director and Community Leadership Award recipient; and John Bowman, St. Louis County NAACP branch president

Guest Editorial Commentary

Let us honor Juneteenth with bold action

By Cicley Gay

Juneteenth, America’s newest federal holiday, was meant to symbolize a national reckoning with history and a celebration of freedom when President Joe Biden signed the bipartisan legislation into law in 2021.

Yet, just a few years later, we find Juneteenth events canceled in cities across Indiana, Illinois, and Oregon, as backlash against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives intensifies.

This is not just an administrative shift, it’s a cultural one. As some seek to erase or diminish Black joy, we must remember that indulging in joy itself has always been an act of resistance.

But Juneteenth also reminds us that freedom in America has never been granted equally. It was delayed for enslaved Black people even after it was declared. Today, for many immigrants, especially Black and brown families, freedom is once again being delayed and denied at borders, in detention centers, and through discriminatory policies. The struggle for liberation is ongoing, and it is interconnected.

Juneteenth commemorates the moment when freedom finally reached the enslaved in Galveston, Texas, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation. That delay was not just a historical footnote; it was a wound that echoes across generations.

our social media timelines following the murder of innocent young men like Trayvon Martin in Florida and Michael Brown in Ferguson, Mo.

Yet even in mourning, our communities found ways to laugh, dance, and dream together. The movement’s global resonance is rooted in this duality, the courage to confront injustice, and the audacity to celebrate life.

Juneteenth also invites us to ask, who in America is still fighting for our freedom? Black and brown immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers face family separation, lack of running water, lack of due process, unsanitary conditions, and more. Undeniably, the same forces that once delayed emancipation, white supremacy, and profit-driven policy, now shape immigration enforcement and send troops when we have the audacity to rise up in cities like Los Angeles.

The attacks on DEI and the cancellation of Juneteenth events are not isolated incidents; they are part of a larger movement to strip Black communities, and other marginalized groups, of resources and visibility. In this climate, our resistance must evolve. Our response cannot be limited to protest alone. It must also include reclaiming the right to thrive, to play, and to experience joy.

From the earliest Juneteenth celebrations to today’s block parties and art festivals, play and happiness have been tools for survival and defiance. For Black and brown communities, joy has always been revolutionary.

Black Lives Matter was founded in 2013 in response to unspeakable tragedies, ones where ruthless oppression, abuse of power, and brutalities flooded

True freedom is not just the absence of harm; it is the presence of opportunity, creativity, and fulfillment. BLM is evolving to meet the needs of our most vulnerable, investing in programs that provide access to art, wellness, and community spaces. We will continue to advocate for divestment from police, prisons, and punishment paradigms while also pushing for investment into justice, joy, and culture.

This Juneteenth, let us do more than remember the past. Let us build the future. Migration is a declaration of hope. Just as Black Americans fled the South during the Great Migration seeking dignity, safety, and opportunity, today’s immigrants are doing the same.

We call on local leaders, philanthropists, and allies to invest in Black communities and to stand in solidarity with all who are still fighting for freedom. The right to give, to gather, and to celebrate, are as vital as any policy change.

This year, and every year, let us honor Juneteenth with bold action and the unwavering belief that freedom includes the right for everyone to play, to dream, and to live fully.

Cicley Gay is Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation chair

Nathan B. Young (1894-1993)

N.A. Sweets (1901-1988)

Bennie G. Rodgers (1914-2000)

Melba Sweets (1909-2006)

STAFF

You can’t hide or change America’s history

By Janice Ellis

The Trump administration is implementing an executive order that includes removing certain historical documents, portraits and monuments from national museums and federal properties while replacing or restoring others in public spaces.

In March, President Trump signed an executive order under the guise of “restoring truth and sanity to American history by revitalizing key cultural institutions and reversing the spread of divisive ideology.”

Instead, the executive order is an attempt to erase the factual experiences, treatment and contributions of Blacks, women and others by removing documents and other evidence from the nation’s museums and institutions.

It’s purpose is to revive and glorify military leaders that led the fight to continue the oppression and disenfranchisement of Blacks.

This week as we celebrate Juneteenth — a federal holiday commemorating the emancipation of Blacks from slavery — it is a good time to reflect on what the removal, and now the impending restoration, of Confederate monuments will or will not mean for our everyday lives.

integrated schools they are disciplined and expelled at much higher rates than white children for the same behavior and infractions.

With an administration where so much of what is done with “made for TV” drama and flair, renaming and restoring visible symbols of an inglorious past under the guise of American gallantry is one more act taking center stage. The Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum, educational and research complex, opened the National Museum of African American History and Culture in 2016. It is being targeted by the Trump administration.

Confederate statutes of generals, documents and other memorabilia belong in museums and designated parks to remind all Americans of a period in this nation’s history that was detrimental, inhumane, ugly and which should never be repeated.

Those reminders need not be destroyed or revered.

It is progress to acknowledge that any period of human enslavement, oppression, servitude, and persecution in a country’s history is, indeed, a shameful and inglorious one.

The removal of some of the Confederate monuments has not closed the great racial divide that is on display all across America. Bigotry, racism, prejudices, disenfranchisement of groups of people based strictly on skin color and economic station in life are still an ugly part of America.

It has not stopped how Black people are treated by police and the criminal justice system. We are stopped more often than whites with or without a legitimate reason, and receive longer sentences than whites for the same or lesser offenses.

In hasn’t eliminated the perpetual education achievement gap where Black children are still locked in poorer inferior schools. In racially

To deny, disown or ignore it is not only crippling, but defeating. We need to make concerted efforts to preserve the facts, major periods and their impact, and to make that information available to future generations.

Future generations need to know the complete American history — the good, the bad, to build a promising future.

Only facing this scourge of racism, confronting it, and actively taking the necessary steps to make things better will have lasting meaning.

Yes, Confederate flags and monuments are historical relics that too many are trying to preserve - not because of their place in America’s history, but in an attempt to determine America’s future.

The president and his administration are leading the charge.

Janice Ellis is a columnist for the Missouri Independent

Commentary

The DEI lies exposed

By Marc Morial

“Our findings suggest that Black leaders are required to meet a higher bar for advancement and point to the need to level the playing field for advancing up the organizational hierarchy.” – researchers Seung-Hwan Jeong, Ann Mooney, Yangyang Zhang, and Timothy J. Quigley

As a hostile backlash to racial justice and gender equality wipes out desperately-needed corporate diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, the latest Fortune 500 rankings marked two revealing milestones.

Though only nine of the companies –1.8% – are led by Black CEOs and just 11% are helmed by women, both metrics are record highs in the 70-year history of the iconic list.

The nine Black CEOs are:

• Marvin Ellison of Lowe’s

• Thasunda Brown

• Duckett or Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association (TIAA)

• Toni Townes-Whitley of Science Applications International

• Christopher Womack of Southern Company

• Calvin Butler Jr. of Exelon

• Dave Bozeman of C.H. Robinson Worldwide

• Michael Bender of Kohl’s

• René Jones of M&T Bank

• David Rawlinson II of QVC Group

advancement is significantly higher for women and Black CEOs.

The qualifications of Black CEOs generally are so impressive that companies commonly see their stock prices jump in the days after their appointments are announced.

“Put simply, our study suggests that it is not enough for aspiring Black CEOs to be just as good as their white counterparts—they must be substantially better to make it to the helm of firms,” the researchers wrote

“Until this is addressed, the poor representation of Black leaders in firms, and the differential in market returns to their appointments, will likely continue.”

While Fortune noted in its announcement the significance of women CEOs breaking the 10% mark for the first time, neither the number of Black CEOs nor its implication were mentioned. In a separate article, however, the magazine reveals that only 28 of the more than 2,000 CEOs represented on the list since 1955 have been Black.

The nine Black CEOs on the 2025 list together represent more than 230 years of corporate executive experience and nine advanced degrees. The companies they lead made up more than $244.76 billion in revenue last year.

The facts are inconvenient for an administration and its allies who are actively promoting racist lies about “reverse discrimination” and “lowered standards” associated with diversity and inclusion initiatives. In reality, the bar for

The higher bar that keeps women and people of color from advancing up the corporate ladder is not only unjust, it’s bad business. More diverse companies report higher revenue and are more likely to be profitable. But, like segregationists who would rather drain their community’s pool than allow equal access for everyone, anti-diversity activists are pressuring companies to scale back or eliminate efforts to remove barriers to equity and inclusion.

My fellow civil rights leaders and I make the risks very clear in a letter we sent to Fortune 1,000 CEOs. “These capitulations weaken businesses and the American economy more broadly. And, these shortsighted decisions make our workplaces less safe and less inclusive for hard-working Americans.

“Abandoning DEI will have long-term consequences on business success — ultimately shirking fiduciary responsibility to employees, consumers, and shareholders.”

The slow progress represented by the Fortune 500 list exposes the lies in the Trump administration’s DEI propaganda. In capitulating to these lies, corporations are denying themselves access to an entire cross-section of talent and expertise, shortchanging their stockholders and customers, and lowering standards of excellence for the entire country.

Marc Morial is National Urban League president and CEO

Guest Columnist Cicley Gay

Guest Columnist

Janice Ellis

Columnist

Marc Morial

Charles Glenn, whose stirring performances of the Star-Spangled Banner have been nationally saluted, is among the entertainers who will perform during HeartLight: A Benefit Concert for Annie Malone at the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center on June 24.

Benefit concert for Annie Malone on June 24

In the aftermath of the devastating May 16th tornado, a group of St. Louis’s most celebrated musical talents will unite for a night of music and hope at HeartLight: A Benefit Concert for Annie Malone Children & Family Services.

The concert will be held at 7:30 p.m.

Monday, June 24 in the Strauss Black Box Theatre at the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center. All proceeds will directly support Annie Malone’s expanded services for children and families affected by the storm.

Organized by local musician Mitzi MacDonald, HeartLight will feature performers and musicians including Charles Glenn, Erin Bode, Joe Mancuso, Dawn Weber, Arvell, Anita Rosamond, Jim Manley, Deborah Sharn, Brian Clarke, Steve Schenkel, Jim Owens, Pete Ruthenburg, and Blake Mickens.

“Since the tornado, we’ve expanded our crisis care and free summer camp services to meet the moment,” said Keisha Lee, president & CEO of Annie Malone Children & Family Services.

“These services come with the need for more staffing and resources. We’re grateful for this event, the artists, and the community for stepping up with us.”

Through the generosity of the city of Kirkwood and the Performing Arts Center, 100% of ticket proceeds will go to Annie Malone. Additional donations—cash, checks (payable to Annie Malone), and gift cards to Lowe’s, Home Depot, or Schnucks—will also be accepted at the event for direct distribution to families in need.

Tickets are $30 and can be purchased through MetroTix.

A chance for fairness to prevail

By E. Faye Williams

Clara Adams, a sophomore high school sprinter from North Salinas High School in California, was penalized by officials who changed the rules after she won the girls’ 400 meters in a CIF State Track and Field Championship meet.

There’s no doubt that she won, but her victory was stripped because a rule was made to disqualify her after she won.

She won the state title and, as anyone would have done, celebrated her victory — something most winners do. Nobody had ever forbidden the way winners celebrated at her school.

She had run the fastest in the girls’ 400-meter finals. She crossed the finish line 0.28 seconds ahead of her closest rival. That was cause for celebration. She celebrated using a small fire extinguisher to spray her cleats as if she were putting out a fire.

The crowd loved it, but her action was deemed “unsportsmanlike.” She was stripped of her title and not allowed to compete further because officials who were no longer in charge of the track meet decided to make an after-game ruling without an appeal of a nonexistent rule.

The race was over. Clara had walked in front of the stands, found her father, who handed her the small fire extinguisher, and walked back across the track into the grass, where she sprayed her cleats. Her move was one made as a tribute to former U.S. sprinter Maurice Greene, who similarly celebrated his win in the 100 at the 2004 Home Depot Invitational.

“If the celebration was away from everyone and not interfering with anyone, I would say reinstate her,” Greene said.

Instead of being the victorious one, Clara was stripped of a title she had won, and it was given to someone else. Clara said she was just having fun. The crowd loved her celebration. She had just won her first state title and yes, she was excited, but it was all taken away from her.

Insensitive adults made her sit and watch others who came in behind her as they accepted what she would have received as the victor.

Clara meant no harm because no such rule existed. Her win in the 400 marked her first state title and insensitive adults took it away from her. She didn’t do anything wrong.

Clara’s father said the officials “were really nasty” toward his daughter. They “tugged on her arm. They were screaming in her face. They had allowed no appeal before taking the title and giving it to the second-place winner.”

Mr. Adams said, “We were asking for the rule, the specific rule of what she did, and they didn’t really give anything.”

Wouldn’t it be a victory if Madison Mosby, who was given the award, presented what she had not really won to Clara, making both girls winners? It would show the adults who unfairly took Clara’s award the meaning of fairness.

Young people have often shown adults what fairness means. Mosby has a chance now to be a real hero by presenting the award to Clara, the real winner. Both girls would forever be known as winners. Mosby doesn’t have to do it, but it would certainly be a memorable example of justice.

E. Faye Williams is president of The Dick Gregory Society (www. thedickgregorysociety.org).

Photo courtesy of Charles Glenn

E. Faye Williams

Continued from A1

forestry, streets, and housing support for families. Forcing St. Louisans to underwrite these narrow and undesired police investments is wrong and unlawful.”

“Given the context of the current political climate, it’s clear we need to fight harder for the democratic processes that defend citizen participation. We the people are being cut out of the equation — even when we win,” says Rogers, Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Organization for Black Struggle. “The unique and often unrestricted authority of police in our society sets it up to be resistant to any change, let alone genuine transformation to reimagine public safety in the eyes of the communities where we live, work, and play.”

Since 1980, the Hancock Amendment to the Missouri Constitution forbids the Missouri legislature from implementing new policies or requirements for local governments without providing funding. That’s exactly what is happening here: the Missouri legislature has required the City of St. Louis to shift and increase funding to the police department without providing the financial support to make it happen. This leaves City taxpayers on the hook for the legislature’s ideas.

The Missouri Constitution also forbids passing ‘local’ or ‘special’ laws that create

Ferguson

Continued from A1

Fast forward nine years and Ferguson’s City Council has voted 4-3 to slash spending on that decree (from $412,700 to $206,350) and eventually phase it out by the second half of the fiscal year.

Mike Milton, founder of Freedom Community Center, and plaintiff in a lawsuit seeking to stop a state takeover of the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, said during a City Hall press conference, “SLMPD is one of the deadliest police forces in the country, and state control provides less accountability, not more.”

requirements for only one municipality or county. There is no reason the State controls SLMPD but doesn’t seek to control the police in Rolla or Joplin, or Springfield.

Under the new law, the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department (SLMPD) is no longer under the direction of local officials. Instead, it is governed by a state-appointed board of commissioners, with members selected by the governor and confirmed by the state senate. The legisla-

To date, Ferguson has spent $6 million trying to complete reforms in 19 areas specified by the decree, including hiring, training and equipping dozens more police officers, increasing community engagement and practicing bias-free police work.

tion also mandates that the City of St. Louis provide additional annual funding to SLMPD, exceeding the department’s already substantial budget.

“Money that could be going to housing, to mental health care, to preventing violence before it starts, will be funneled back into a system we know doesn’t keep us safe,” Milton said when expressing his concerns about increasing the SLMPD budget. “SLMPD is one of the deadliest police forces in the coun-

try, and state control provides less accountability, not more.”

According to Milton, SLMPD police killings are nearly four times higher than cities like Chicago and Los Angeles. He says Black residents are 4.3 times more likely to be subjected to force than white residents. In Blackmajority neighborhoods, use-of-force incidents happen nearly three times more often than in white ones.

“This is not just a pattern. It is a crisis, and it

is happening in a city that is nearly half Black,” he said. “In our work, we learned that real safety doesn’t come from the state. It comes from us, interrupting harm at the root, demanding truth, and keeping power where it belongs, with the community.”

Miton is the founder of Freedom Community Center, a Black-led organization dedicated to dismantling systems of oppression and fostering community-based alternatives to incarceration.

In his current role and previously, Milton and his team at The Bail Project routinely coach individuals trapped in the legal system because they lack support to de-escalate violence, find safe and affordable housing, and achieve economic stability.

The lawsuit challenges House Bill 495, which requires the City of St. Louis to allocate even more of its annual budget to the police department, placing a growing financial burden on local taxpayers. According to the plaintiffs, this mandate violates Missouri’s Hancock Amendment, which bars the state from shifting the cost of large-scale government operations onto local jurisdictions without voter approval.

In 2012, Missourians successfully mobilized to return local control of the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department (SLMPD) to the City of St. Louis through a statewide ballot initiative. From 2013 to 2025, St. Louis residents have exercised oversight and advocacy, achieving several key reforms. These include establishing a Civilian Oversight Board, implementing community control over police surveillance, issuing executive orders, defunding vacant police positions, and exposing the shortcomings of internal investigations.

Under the terms of HB 495, the state-appointed Board has the authority to unilaterally override or alter any local policy reforms or limitations enacted by the City.

sure.

“The Ferguson City Council’s decision to fund only 50% of the consent decree’s costs raises serious procedural, legal, and strategic objections — and may expose the city to legal and reputational risks,” Bowman said in a statement sent to the American.

John Bowman, president of St. Louis County NAACP, believes the city has acted prematurely and possibly illegally.

After nine years, he added, the city has just begun to address the “community-focused work” mandated by the decree.

“If we are just now beginning to connect the community to law enforcement, wouldn’t it make sense to give it more time? This seems like a low-ball attempt to bail on

the remaining reforms,” Bowman said. “The investigation found a community that was deeply polarized, and where deep distrust and hostility often characterized interactions between police and area residents. The community’s needs still exist. The work must continue.”

There are seven Ferguson council members. Most, including Mayor Ella M. Jones (who voted against the bill) are Black. Nick Kasoff, one of the two white council members, who sponsored the bill to cut funding said the decision was more about the city’s budgetary limitations and a purge of taxpayer’s money.

“The problem that I have is there are a lot of people making money off the consent decree,” Kasoff explained. “There are a lot of $300-an-hour people flying in and staying at the Ritz- Carlton on the city’s budget. Ferguson’s not an affluent community. We’re taxing working-class people to pay for lawyers at the taxpayer’s expense.”

Kasoff said there are streets that need repairing, derelict houses that need demolition and other basic services the city won’t be able to afford if they’re mandated to keep paying money the consent decree mandates.

Despite Kasoff’s budgetary concerns, Bowman insists the council had no right to slash funding from a decree mandated by a federal court order. Reducing funding without the court’s approval, Bowman said, could be “construed as noncompliance or bad faith, especially without a “request for modification from the city.”

The Constitution’s Supremacy Clause,” Bowman added, makes federal court orders binding so that no local government can “unilaterally override or underfund them.”

One legal question that’s sure to arise is whether the city has met any or all of the requirements set out in the decree?

Kasoff admits he’s not

“I honestly can’t answer that because the information provided to council members has been so bad I can’t tell what’s been completed or what we’re supposed to do.

“One would think that after going through all that litigation and having a 131-page consent decree, there would be some sort of checklist where somebody could mark things off as they’re completed… that ain’t the way it’s gone down.”

Shortly after Donald Trump took office his Department of Justice (DOJ) announced it was dismissing consent decree cases in two cities, Minneapolis and Louisville, where police officers killed George Floyd and Breonna Taylor. Some critics believe Ferguson’s vote to slash the decree’s funding was done anticipating no pushback from the DOJ. Bowman described the move as “Trumpian” and Kasoff didn’t exactly disagree.

“I’ve heard people say they (DOJ) have a list and Ferguson’s on it, but I don’t know anything about that. I don’t know who’s going to react or how. There’s a courtroom, a judge, lawyers, DOJ attorneys. This litigation is a huge, complicated entity. So, I’m going to leave the lawyering to the lawyers.”

That “complicated entity,” Bowman wrote, will no doubt question why Ferguson provided no budgetary justification or impact statement for its decision which may be seen as a violation of “basic tenets of transparent governance.”

Kasoff, who’s been a council member for less than a year, said he protested police misconduct after Mike Brown’s death. He insists there has been “top-to-bottom, serious cultural change” in Ferguson and everyone who voted to cut the budget still wants to see and work toward “equitable change” in the city.

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

Photo courtesy of ArchCity Defenders

Ewing said both his restaurant and The Fountain received some roof damage, and windows were blown out by the powerful tornadic winds.

Whichever direction you look when standing on Delmar near Steve’s there is tornado destruction visible. While his restaurant was closed, Ewing said he and staff immediately began providing free meals and fed 750 people following the storm.

“When the tornado hit, our first thought was about helping,” he said.

Ewing had established a Feed the People program long before the tornado hit and was attempting to raise $5,000 to replenish that fund. The CITY SC MLS franchise donated $2,500 to get Ewing 50% toward the goal.

Tuesday was a cause for celebration as both the restaurants reopened on Tuesday and money was raised for businesses that were damaged along the Delmar main area.

“We’re getting focused, we’re getting fired up for the businesses right here on Delmar,” he said as the Funky Butt Brass Band prepared to entertain.

10% of the proceeds from the evening are being donated to the Build Back the Block tornado relief fund. In all, the Delmar Maker District hoped to raise $50,000.

Felice McClendon, Delmar Main Street exec-

Medicaid

Continued from A1

In Missouri, an estimated 210,000 people could lose coverage by 2034, a Congressional Budget Office (CBO) analysis revealed.

“The Medicaid cuts Congress is considering would be the largest funding reduction in the program’s history, and it is hard to overstate just how devastating the impacts would be,” said Katherine Hempstead, senior policy adviser at the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.

“Such drastic changes to Medicaid financing would have ripple effects that go well beyond people covered by the program, further squeezing hospitals, limiting access to care for entire communities, and destabilizing state and local economies.”

“As Congress considers significant cuts to the Medicaid program and ACA Marketplaces, this analysis can help state and local policymakers and stakeholders consider the potential adverse effects on healthcare coverage, access, and affordability, and the financial vulnerability of certain providers in their state,” said Fredric Blavin, senior fellow at the Urban Institute.

Healthcare spending in the United States would decline by $797 billion over the next decade— with more than one-third of the decline occurring in California, Florida, Texas, and New York—under the congressional spending bill passed by the House of Representatives. Declines in healthcare

utive director, was in her car near the Delmar and Union intersection as tornado’s fury approached her.

“A woman in her car was driving in reverse -fast right toward me. I honked the horn because I thought she was going to hit me, then I saw what she did. Trees were just being thrown all down the block,: she said. McClendon ducked down as debris smashed

spending would exceed $20 billion in nine additional states (Arizona, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, and Washington).

Hospitals see the biggest decline in spending ($321 billion) during the 2025-34 span, with physicians facing an $81 billion cut.

The United States would see a $204 billion increase in uncompensated care over the next decade.

The largest increases in uncompensated care would be in California ($27.5 billion), Texas ($15.9 billion), New York ($13.1 billion), and Florida ($11.7 billion).

Hospitals would face a $63 billion increase in uncompensated care, and physicians would face a $24 billion increase.

In addition, The Johnson Foundation warns that between 4.6 and 5.2 million adults living in states that expanded Medicaid, which includes Missouri, would lose Medicaid coverage next year under work requirements.

Kaiser Foundation studies show that more than nine in 10 adults with Medicaid expansion coverage already work, are looking for a job, attend school, are caring for family members, are in fair or poor health, or reported having a disability.

If work requirements are not explicitly limited to the Medicaid expansion population, researchers say more than 30 million adults ages 19 to 55 could be subject to them, and coverage losses would be substantially higher, according to the Johnson Foundation.

St. LouiS AmericAn June 26.

into her car and broke all but one of its windows.

“I’m blessed to be here,” she said. McClendon said the response by the community to help those impacted

by the tornado has also been a blessing.

“People are helping people they know, and that is great. We also need to help the people we’ve never met,” said

McClendon.

She said supporting small businesses in the impacted areas would help spread the recovery to more homes and households.

“For every small business impacted, there are employees. A business supporting from 10 to 100 employees means there now 10 to 100 households that no longer have a source of income.

Supporting small business is key to getting St. Louis back on its feet,” McClendon told the concert crowd.” She said it is important “to elevate the voices from the small business community to highlight the kind of help they need to get back in business.”

10th Ward Alderwoman

Shameem Clark Hubbard said each of the eight neighborhoods in the ward received heavy damage.

“Some people are recovering, while some have no place to,” she said.

“There has been a disparity in how people can respond depending on their circumstance. It is great to be able to raise money and put it right back into the community.”

Clark explained with FEMA now canvassing, the city is working with the federal agency “to make sure we are not duplicating services.”

“We must make sure we are getting the people all their relief, and that no one is missed,” she said.

Steve’s Hot Dogs and The Fountain in the Delmar Maker District were damaged by the May 16, 2025, tornado and forced to temporarily closed. However, staff members fed over 750 people in the immediate days after the storm.

Photo courtesy of Steve’s Hot Dogs

The St. Louis American Foundation Salute to Excellence in Education awards are presented annually to honor outstanding Black educators throughout the St. Louis region. Nominations are open to individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to the education and advancement of Black students. Eligible nominees may include classroom teachers, counselors, principals, administrators, support staff, and professionals in related fields such as higher education, youth development, community education, and college or career access.

4TheVille Emergency Hub still assisting tornado victims

By Jason Rosenbaum St. Louis Public Radio

It didn’t take long for Dara Eskridge and Aaron Williams to spring into action after a deadly tornado ripped through parts of north St. Louis.

Eskridge and Williams helped lead the 4TheVille Hub, which provided critical supplies and housing stabilization to people throughout north St. Louis.

Both Eskridge and Williams have deep ties to the community: Eskridge is the CEO of Invest STL, which helps financially support neighborhood development initiatives. Williams is President of 4TheVille, a nonprofit group that aims to preserve and expand the cultural history of several north St. Louis neighborhoods.

The Hub shut down earlier this month, prompting both Eskridge and Williams to reflect during a St. Louis on the Air episode on the volunteer effort’s impact –and how they plan to keep the assistance coming to tornado victims.

“We are all applauding the FEMA and the disaster declaration,” Eskridge said. “We know that’s not really a fast system, right? So it will be some time before resources start flowing to people who need it most. And so, the direct cash assistance is meant to be something that can be more immediate and far more flexible than most government programs can be.”

Williams and Eskridge are also planning on advising the city about how to pursue longer-term relief efforts. In particular, Williams said they’ve collaborated with city officials about how to efficiently place tarps and boards onto houses.

n “We all serve these communities, work with these communities, live in these communities, so we understood the assignment.

- Aaron Williams

“We all serve these communities, work with these communities, live in these communities,” Williams said. “So we understood the assignment, and all we needed was a place to gather and begin to organize with each other.”

Eskridge said Invest STL is pulling together funds for a direct cash program known as the Northside Resilience Fund, which could provide $3,000 per affected housing unit. She said the money could serve as a bridge of sorts as people wait to get more substantial aid from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, as well as the state and city.

She said the goal is to raise around $4 million for the direct cash program. Already, Eskridge said groups like the James S. McDonnell Foundation and the Missouri Foundation for Health provided around 65% of that total.

“It will mirror the same program that we were operating out of our emergency response hub, where subcontractors are assigned to specific buildings to complete a scope of work that’s defined by whoever is managing the process,” Williams said.

“I’m grateful that the city was willing to listen to us.”

In the aftermath of the tornado, nongovernmental organizations like 4TheVille, Action St. Louis and the Urban League took on many of the short-term relief efforts. Some residents questioned whether it was fair to put the onus on volunteers instead of having the city or state deal with much of the initial response.

Williams, though, said that a similar situation occurred in 1927, when a tornado killed dozens of people and injured hundreds in St. Louis.

During that disaster nearly a century ago, groups like the American Red Cross and educational institutions like Sumner High School mobilized to temporarily house people displaced by the storm.

“What history tells us, or what archives tell us, is that the community responded the exact same way, and it was an essential function of the response effort,” he said.

Gateway to Pride: Closing Words from Craig

By Cicely Hunter, Missouri Historical Society

At the Missouri History Museum, the exhibit Gateway to Pride isn’t just telling history; it’s making it. This exhibition, which opened on June 8, 2024, is dedicated to the life, activism, and triumphs of the LGBTQIA+ community in the St. Louis region and is the first of its kind to represent this comprehensive history. And one of the voices at the heart of it is Craig, a proud Black St. Louisan who identifies as LGBTQIA+.

Craig’s story is a reminder that history is not confined to books alone, but is also alive in people within our local community. He shared in a recent interview that his journey to self-acceptance didn’t come overnight. “I had to have a big conversation with myself. I had to learn to embrace me decades ago. And that’s when I had to come to that term and recognize who I am.”

That kind of honesty resonates. It’s why Craig’s presence in Gateway to Pride is more than symbolic—it’s instructive. It reminds us that history is about transformation and sometimes takes time, work, reflection, and courage.

“I have my own style, and it frees me,” Craig shared. “I’m free in my head to be who I am and what I am.” For him, fashion is not just clothing. He learned about it from the elders in his community, whose presence and appearance shaped how he defined self-expression.

Gateway to Pride doesn’t just look at one moment or movement; it invites visitors to understand the deep roots of LGBTQIA+ life in St. Louis, ranging from 19th-century masquerading ordinances to drag balls of the mid-20th century to the activist coalitions of the AIDS crisis to today’s brilliant creatives.

To Craig, the power to be seen is central to Gateway to Pride. He reflected, “I see this community. I see the exhibit serving the community by educating people that are on the fence of knowing what the LGBTQ lifestyle is about. It will take away some of their fears. Because it shows us in a light that’s normal— because we’re people who have contributed to the development of this region.”

The Missouri Historical Society is dedicated to sharing the story of all St. Louisans, and this exhibit is a testament to our commitment. Too often, different identities, especially Black LGBTQIA+ community members, have been marginalized. But Gateway to Pride shows how St. Louis has always been shaped by queer residents who are educators, performers, stylists, faith leaders, frontline advocates, and more.

“St. Louis is setting the tone and the pace for other museums around the country to do the same,” Craig noted proudly.

And he’s right. The Missouri Historical Society is demonstrating what it means to say, “We are St. Louis.”

Craig charges all of us to be bold, recognize our own light, and walk on our own runway wherever that might take us.

“And as I always say, God has given you a spotlight, the sun, and man has created a runway and that is the sidewalk, so walk in your light and power.” We have the responsibility to share inclusive history, even when the world tells us not to.

Craig invites others to embrace their identity “so when you walk out the door, honey, you’re untouchable.” These aren’t just words, but affirmations. And they speak directly to young people who may be questioning, or elders who are still healing, or families seeking to understand their loved ones more deeply.

“It is humbling for everybody to be part of something that’s so incredibly important to our community as a whole,” Craig emphasized, “not just the gay community, but our community.”

The exhibit closes on Sunday, July 6, so we encourage you to come to the Missouri History Museum for a first or final visit to Gateway to Pride

St. Louis history is LGBTQIA+ history. And when we tell a more complete story, we support the preservation of the past and make room for a more honest and inclusive future.

Visit mohistory.org/events for information about the closing weekend celebration of Gateway to Pride, July 5–6.

$5,000 MUST BE A HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR OR CURRENTLY ENROLLED COLLEGE STUDENT (UNDERGRADUATE OR GRADUATE)

Craig’s story is featured in Gateway to Pride, closing at the Missouri History Museum on July

Art, connection and healing

CVPA student artists complete mural for Danis Pediatrics in Tower Grove

They were on hand for the ribbon cutting Tuesday afternoon.

By Zaria Mac

The St. Louis American

Restorative beauty is the end result of a collaboration between Central Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA) High School and SSM Health Cardinal Glennon. A 60-foot mural now spans the west wall of the SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Danis Pediatrics building in Tower Grove. Created by two CVPA students – Jovi Vaughn and Micajah Carr – in just under 22 hours, the mural sends a message of strength and resilience.

n A 60-foot mural now spans the west wall of the SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Danis Pediatrics building in Tower Grove. Created by two CVPA students – Jovi Vaughn and Micajah Carr.

shot by police. Vaughn and Carr were freshmen at the time of the shooting.

“This wasn’t just an art project,” said Saint Louis Public Schools Superintendent, Dr. Millicent Borishade at the signing and ribbon cutting. “It was a therapeutic journey. It allowed our scholars to grieve, to express, and to heal through the power of art, and the result; healing, happiness, and acceptance.”

Missouri needs commission on boys and men

By Anthony J. Nixon Jr.

June is a significant time for men’s health.

In addition to Father’s Day, June is both Men’s Health Month and Men’s Mental Health Month, and includes both Juneteenth and LGBTQ Pride. All this provides a great opportunity to reflect on the challenges that men and boys face and how we can better support their health and well-being. And it should be more than just celebrating fathers or reminding men to get their check-ups. We must take a closer look at how our state and society are supporting the lives of boys and men and consider whether Missouri is ready to take a new step by establishing a Commission on Boys and Men.

A growing conversation is taking place across the country.

n Nationally, boys are struggling in school Young men are disconnected from work or education.

In community meetings, classrooms, and places of worship, people are quietly naming a set of challenges that have been building for years. Nationally, boys are struggling in school. Young men are disconnected from work or education. Fathers are trying to stay involved but feeling shut out by systems. Men experiencing mental health crises in silence.

“This mural will now stand as a permanent reflection of what it means to care for one another,” said CVPA Principal Amy Phillips at a mural signing and ribbon cutting event last Tuesday (June 10). “It’s a promise that even in the hardest moments we can still choose beauty, connection, and love” The mural is located on Arsenal Street facing the entrance of CVPA High School. Every day that the students return to the building that was the site of a tragedy, they will also pass this beautiful mural that serves as a reminder of their resilience – and a comfort to the young patients who arrive for treatment.

On October 24, 2022, a former student opened fire on students and staff. Two were killed and seven were injured before the gunman was fatally

‘Big Beautiful Bill’ is ugly for

Black America

By Jennifer Porter Gore

Word In Black

The so-called “Big Beautiful Bill,” currently being debated by the Senate after narrow passage in the House — confirms that beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

Among the GOP House members that approved the bill was Congresswoman Ann Wagner, who represents parts of St. Louis County in the 2nd congressional district. Should the Senate not dramatically alter healthcare and safety net budget cuts, the future won’t look good for Black Americans.

Danis Pediatrics has been a tremendous support to the surrounding community. Nearly 20,000 patients have been served since the Tower Grove location was established in the fall of 2023. Vaughn, Carr, and Evan Wagman – an artist and educator at CVPA who had the pleasure of directing this project – took a tour of the recently opened clinic before starting the mural. They received a better understanding of the patients and treat-

See ART, A11

These are not new problems, but we are finally starting to acknowledge them out loud. These stories cross racial, economic and geographic lines. And they matter – not just for the people involved, but for families and communities who need boys and men to be healthy, present and supported.

A statewide Commission on Boys and Men would allow Missouri to examine these same issues through a community-based lens. We could begin See NIXON, A11

The bill takes a chainsaw to government programs that members of the Black community depend disproportionately on for healthcare. It calls for hollowing out Medicaid, as well as a legislative sleight of hand that all but repeals the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare. Experts say those two provisions alone could cause 14 million people, a sizable percentage of whom are Black, to lose access to healthcare insurance. But the bill also calls for deep cuts to public health agencies, as well as See BILL, A11

Central Visual and Performing Arts students Micajah Carr and Jovi Vaughn designed and created the 60-foot mural on the Arsenal Street side of SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Danis Pediatrics building in Tower Grove.

Photo by Alyssa Coffey / Courtesy of SSM Health Cardinal Glennon

Photo courtesy of Planned Parenthood Dr. Serina Floyd, chief medical officer for Planned Parenthood of Metropolitan Washington, D.C., testified before a Senate committee in 2024 on women’s reproductive rights. She says the proposed U.S. budget bill passed by the House could be disastrous for Black women, especially those who receive Medicaid benefits.

Anthony J. Nixon Jr.

Continued from A10

ments they receive.

While on the tour, Vaughn was inspired by the strong will of the children she saw battling ailments. Carr was intrigued by the portraits of animals she saw and wanted to expound upon.

“Originally envisioned as a visual commentary on the community of Danis Pediatrics, this mural evolved into something even greater,” Wagman said. “[It became] a daily reminder that beauty can rise anywhere, that we are stronger together, and that art has the power to connect, to uplift, and to heal.”

The vibrant new mural depicts a diverse mixture of children and young adults with various physical challenges, all playing in a lush green field under a clear blue sky. The image captures the whimsy and playfulness of childhood. There are also bright flowers and animals lounging in the field creating a sense of ease and comfort for young patients as they enter the parking lot.

“The colors and expressive design reflect the strength of our youth, the power of art, and will inspire everyone who sees it,” said Dr. Hossain Marandi, President of Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital and Assistant Vice President of pediatrics at SSM Health, “It is our hope that each student who looks upon this wall is reminded of joy, beauty, and the steadfast support surrounding them.” At the center of the mural is the image of a woman holding a baby under a rainbow with the phrase “Our Health Is

Bill

Continued from A10

slashing the budget for the anti-poverty program known as food stamps and ending government reimbursements to nonprofits that provide Black women with free or reduced-cost reproductive healthcare.

These cuts, experts say, will disproportionately hurt Black Americans and will push the poor deeper into poverty, while the wealthy will benefit.

Six Nobel prize-winning economists said as much last week in an open letter published on the Economic Policy Institute website.

“The most acute and immediate damage stemming from this bill would be felt by the millions of

Nixon

Continued from A10

to chart a path forward by gathering data, listening deeply, and elevating voices. The commission would bring together researchers, community leaders, practitioners, and people with lived experiences to study the challenges boys and men face and recommend impactful solutions.

The commission would ask questions that too often go unspoken in policymaking: How do we help young boys thrive in schools? How do we better support fathers who are struggling? What would it look like to create mental

‘Taking

Worth the Effort” in bold, white bubble letters. The poignant, yet assertive phrase effectively communicates the value of lives in the Tower Grove community.

American families losing key safety net protections like Medicaid and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits,” they wrote. “The Medicaid cuts constitute a sad step backward in the nation’s commitment to providing access to health care for all.”

The combination of cuts to key safety net programs and tax cuts for the wealthy means the bill “constitutes an extremely large upward redistribution of income,” they wrote. “Given how much this bill adds to the U.S. debt, it is shocking that it still imposes absolute losses on the bottom 40% of U.S households.”

As the centerpiece of President Donald Trump’s legislative agenda, the bill has drawn fire from the

health services that men are more likely to use?

The State of Missouri has councils, committees, and departments that help children, women, veterans and older adults. These organized groups recognize the importance of addressing specific needs and developing solutions tailored to these populations. A commission focused on boys and men would help fill a gap in how we understand and respond to urgent issues.

To be clear: Supporting boys and men doesn’t mean turning away from the needs of women and girls. In fact, the health and well-being of men is closely connected to the

“This mural is a bold and beautiful reminder of our commitment to be here, to be present, and to always make the effort,” said Cardinal Glennon pediatrician Dr. Joshua

left and the right for its potential to harm lower-income Americans.

Still, it has already been passed by the House of Representatives. The Senate is currently considering it, and Trump wants it on his desk by July 4.

The bill cuts $700 billion from the Department of Health and Human Services — which controls the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, among others — and calls for $300 billion in cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, a.k.a. SNAP, which helps the food insecure buy groceries. Both proposals, experts say, will worsen healthcare in low-income Black communities.

But the biggest point of contention is what the bill could do to Medicaid, the

health of families and communities. When boys are supported in school, it creates better classroom environments for everyone. When men are healthier and more emotionally engaged, their partners and children benefit. When fathers are involved, children are more likely to do well across a range of outcomes.

To achieve this goal, we must accept that things can be complex. We have to be willing to talk about gender and identity, social isolation, economic shifts and generational trauma –without judgment, but with respect and compassion.

We have to ask what it means for men to seek help, express emotions,

“Josh” Arthur. “This neighborhood has endured its share of hardships – but has also shown remarkable resilience, compassion, and unity.” Arthur said SSM Health

venerable health insurance plan.

Budget analysts estimate cuts to Medicaid, which provides health insurance coverage for a disproportionate number of low-income Black households, will force some 10 million people to go without coverage because of the cuts.

Besides limiting access to primary healthcare, the bill also could be disastrous for Black women’s reproductive health.

Medicaid provides health insurance coverage for low-income Americans, pays out-ofpocket health costs for low-income retirees and provides nursing home and in-home care services for the elderly. But it also pays for more than 40% of the births in the United States — including more

and build relationships in a culture that has not always encouraged them to do so. And we have to be ready to design policies that reflect these complex realities.

Other states and cities have already started this work. The State of Washington has a grassroots campaign to pass legislation. California established a Select Committee on the Status of Boys and Men of Color in 2011. Cities including Washington, D.C. and Boston have launched initiatives to support boys and men.

And this year, the Missouri House passed legislation to establish the “Missouri Fathership

is honored to be a part of this community – and represent a piece of the community’s network of support.

“This mural is a message to everyone that

than half of all births in Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, and Oklahoma.

Then there’s the Medicaid-funded reimbursements to organizations like Planned Parenthood for America, which provides free or low-cost reproductive healthcare. One out of every three Black women has relied on Planned Parenthood for services like breast cancer and cervical cancer screening, contraceptives, and testing for sexually transmitted infections.

Dr. Serina Floyd, chief medical officer for Planned Parenthood of Metropolitan Washington, D.C., says the budget cuts put women’s health at risk.

Studies show Black women are more likely to be diagnosed with cer-

Project” with the state social services department to promote fathership and empower fathers to become successful in fathership, though the bill died in the Senate.

Missouri could be among the first states in the Midwest to take this seriously, to say, “We see you. We hear you. And we are committed to understanding what’s happening and what needs to change.”

walks past that we’re still here, we’re still growing,” Principal Phillips said. “And [that] we’re not defined by what happened to us, but how we rise in its aftermath.”

vical cancer at a later stage and face a lower five-year survival rate. Roughly 4,320 American women will die from cervical cancer this year, and the mortality rate for Black women is nearly 65% higher than for white women.

“Patients come in for their pap smear screening and have had abnormalities with that testing and require follow-up testing, and in some cases require treatment to prevent the advancement to cervical cancer — that can be fairly costly,” Floyd says. For Medicaid insurance patients, she says, having access to that care is “hugely significant. “Losing access to coverage for that care is devastating,” she says.

As we observe Men’s Health Month, we have an opportunity to shift the narrative. We can create a new story, to move beyond short-term programs and one-off initiatives and toward a more intentional, informed, and inclusive approach. A Commission on Boys and Men wouldn’t just be a policy win. It would be a turning point. Maybe this June, in between cookouts and celebrations, we can take a moment to ask: What would it look like to truly support boys and men in Missouri? And what might change if we tried? That’s a question worth exploring. And a commission could help us find the answers.

Anthony J. Nixon Jr. is a perinatal epidemiologist and PhD student in the public health sciences program at Washington University in St. Louis. This commentary was originally published by the Missouri Independent

SLPS Superintendent Dr. Millicent Borishade shared remarks at the ribbon cutting for the new mural created by CVPA High School students Micajah Carr and Jovi Vaughn at the SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Danis Pediatrics building in Tower Grove on Tuesday, June 10.

Photo by Alyssa Coffey / Courtesy of SSM Health Cardinal Glennon

JUNE 19 – 25, 2025

Kwame remains on scene in devastated O’Fallon Park

‘Support with dignity’ after tornado

The Kwame Building Group and its philanthropic arm, the Kwame Foundation, immediately formed crews

volunteers to help clear streets and repair damage in the O’Fallon neighborhood following the May 16,

By Alvin A. Reid St. Louis American

Since its founding by Anthony “Tony” Thompson, chair and CEO of the Kwame Building Group, the Black-owned business has made community service an integral part of its operation.

Through hundreds of college scholarship and philanthropic support for non-profits and other organizations, Thomspon said Kwame wants to be a leader in community action

The commitment has been evident

during the four weeks following the deadly EF-3 tornado that tore through sections of the St. Louis area on Friday St. Louis on May 16, 2025.

The Kwame Building Group and its philanthropic arm, Kwame Charitable Foundation, have constructed teams to provide immediate relief for the survivors.

Thomspon said the massive effort would not be possible without partners, which have provided equipment, supplies and volunteer hours to aid Kwame’s efforts. They include Archview Services,

C. Rallo Contracting Co, Inc., North Park United Methodist Church, Nutriformance, LLC, Simmons Bank, St. Louis Police Foundation, and the United Way of Greater St. Louis’ Volunteer Center.

In addition, many St. Louis area residents and organizations have individuals offering cash donations, essential supplies, food, water, and physical labor to clean debris from the storm.

“Teamwork and thoughtful planning propelled this campaign in giving support with dignity to every recipient,” said

Managing the high costs of buying or leasing a vehicle

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Thompson.

Thompson said teams surveyed the affected neighborhoods, and selected the interior streets of the O’Fallon Neighborhood as the site it would first help.

“With a canopy tent, tables, and truckloads of donated supplies, our goal is to alleviate the trauma experienced by these residents. In this densely populated area, many of the homeowners are elderly and homebound, unable to access the resources being distributed on major streets,” Thompson explained.

“We have deployed teams to do wellness checks over the past four weeks, making personal interaction a top priority. These individuals have survived a life-altering tragedy, and we want them to know that we are deeply concerned about their overall well-being.”

Lydia Pye Huston, Kwame Foundation exec-

JPMorgan

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monthly payments, they usually come with higher interest rates, which typically ends up costing you more over time. If available, opt for a shorter loan term to save on interest.

Looking for ways to better plan for or even reduce insurance, gas, and maintenance costs?

Though these costs are generally unavoidable, there are a few simple ways that you can minimize the impact on your wallet, including:

utive director, said, “We were determined to have a regular presence in the O’Fallon Neighborhood and the collective effort of the Kwame team has been awe-inspiring.”

“Our sole purpose has been to make life better for those impacted by the tornado, and within the past four weeks, we have united as a family. The bond we have formed with the residents, volunteers, donors, and corporate partners is unbreakable.”

Diamond Spence grew up on the city’s north side and was among the first team members to help her former community.

“This work is deeply personal to me. I see my family, my friends, and my younger self in the faces of those affected, said Spence, Kwame diversity specialist.

“Our community has always shown up for me in my most vulnerable moments, so giving back is not just a choice, it’s a responsibility. I’ve long been inspired by Mother Teresa’s words: “Do not wait for leaders; do it alone, person to person.”

1. Shopping around for insurance. Shopping around for rates can help you compare different insurers, as rates can vary widely between providers. This way, you have a better chance of finding a policy to suit your needs at a price that won’t break the bank.

2. Fuel-efficient driving. Perhaps an unexpected way to use less gas is through your driving habits. Avoid making hard stops and starts. For long stretches of uninterrupted miles, cruise control will help your car use less gas by maintaining a steady speed.

Simmons Bank employee volunteer teams joined the Kwame effort to help the O’Fallon neighborhood on the city’s northside by distributing cleaning supplies. paper products, diapers and essentials to distribute on two separate days.

The tornado reached peak strength in North St. Louis City with winds as high as 152 mph, as it continued northeast through the Metro East, according to the report.

More than 5,000 buildings were damaged or

3. Maintaining your car regularly. Routine check-ups can also help you save money on gas but also help prevent expensive repairs in the future. Changing the oil regularly, checking tire pressure, and following the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule are great ways to keep your car and wallet happy.

How should someone approach the true cost of car ownership before buying a car?

The total or true cost of car ownership typically goes beyond just the sticker price—although the sticker price is typ-

destroyed along the nearly 23-mile-long tornado track.

Just a few hours after the tornado blasted the area, Eli Candela, Kwame project engineer, was on the scene organizing contractors and excavation

ically the largest of all the expenses associated with buying a car. Other expenses that usually get bundled into the total cost include sales taxes, vehicle registration fees, maintenance and running costs, car insurance and financing.

Be sure to do your homework before stepping on the lot. There are many tools available that can help you plan for additional costs, such as sales taxes, registration fees, and insurance—which can vary depending on the car make, model and even the color.

For more auto budget-

to clear nearly five miles of debris from residential streets in the O’Fallon neighborhood.

“Tony organized the big picture, and I am proud to be part of the boots-onthe-ground efforts, to bring a little hope back to peo-

ing tools and tips, visit autofinance.chase.com/.

For informational/ educational purposes only: Views and strategies described in this article or provided via links may not be appropriate for everyone and are not intended as specific advice/ recommendation for any business. Information has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but JPMorgan Chase & Co. or its affiliates and/ or subsidiaries do not warrant its completeness or accuracy. The material is not intended to provide legal, tax, or financial advice or to indicate the

ple who have lost nearly everything,” said Candela. Corrie Riggs, a Simmons Bank business banker, formed employee volunteer teams, armed with cleaning supplies. paper products, diapers, and essentials to distribute on two separate days.

“While serving, one of the most impactful moments is witnessing the resilience of those affected by destruction. The words of one resident stayed with me: when we asked how she was, she replied, ‘Blessed and highly favored,’” Riggs said.

“Simmons Bank is grateful to be a part of the St. Louis community, and we truly are better when we are working together. Thompson said FEMA’s presence and support coming from the state, city and Rams settlement money will not change Kwame’s commitment to the neighborhood.

“While the needs are now shifting, with local and federal resources being approved, we still plan to have a presence in the O’Fallon Neighborhood,” said Thompson.

availability or suitability of any JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. product or service. You should carefully consider your needs and objectives before making any decisions and consult the appropriate professional(s). Outlooks and past performance are not guarantees of future results. JPMorgan Chase & Co. and its affiliates are not responsible for, and do not provide or endorse third party products, services, or other content. Deposit products provided by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. Equal Opportunity Lender. © 2025 JPMorgan Chase & Co.

Photo courtesy of Kwame

n “Everyone loves each other, everyone wants the best for each other.”

– Seth Jones on winning the Stanley Cup with the Florida Panthers

Sports

InSIdE SportS

With Earl Austin Jr.

A high five for the departed Bennie Lewis

Legendary high school basketball coach Bennie Lewis, the architect of the East St. Louis Lincoln boys’ basketball dynasty during the 1980s, passed away last week. He also had a nice run at East St. Louis Senior High for three seasons between 1998-2000.

Here are my five best moments from watching the Bennie Lewis years at both Lincoln and East St. Louis Senior High schools.

1. The 1989 Class AA state championship game between Lincoln and Peoria Central is still the best high school game I’ve ever watched in person. The triple-overtime game came down to the final seconds with the score tied at 57-57. With time winding down, the ball went to senior guard Vincent Jackson, who dribbled between the legs and let fly a 17-foot jumper that swished as time expired to give Lincoln the state championship and a legendary three-peat. It was the only time in my career that I broke the media’s code of cheering in the press area. I just jumped-up yelling “Oh, My God!! They Did It!!, It’s a THREE-PEAT!!”

guard Mike Hampton attempted a jumper. The shot was swatted off the glass by Lincoln star forward Tyrone Jackson and the ball bounced out to guard Calvin Phiffer, who threw down a two-handed transition dunk to seal the state championship for the Tigers. I still remember Jackson wearing a cowboy hat at the post-game celebration.

Earl Austin Jr.

3. One of the special games that I got a chance to cover came during the 1999 season when East St. Louis played Vashon at Martin Luther King Day Classic, which was hosted by the late Earl Wilson and the St. Louis Gateway Classic. The game was held at the then-Kiel Center downtown. Lewis was the coach at East St. Louis and Vashon was led by head coach Floyd Irons in a battle of legendary coaches. A snowstorm had hit the area, but nearly 17,000 people showed up to watch this epic showdown. The atmosphere was electric from start to finish. In the end, the Darius Milesled East St. Louis Flyers edged Vashon in a tremendous game.

Bennie

tive Class AA

2. In 1982, Lincoln won the first of its four state championships of the decade when it defeated Chicago Mendel Catholic 56-50. I remember watching this game on WGN-TV. Mendel Catholic had the ball trailing 53-50 when star

4. Back in the day, the KMOX Shootout in St. Louis was one of the top high school basketball events in the country. In the 1987-88 season, Lewis’ Lincoln team was matched up against Indian River (VA) in the featured contest. It matched up a pair of All-American big

men in LaPhonso Ellis of Lincoln and Alonzo Mourning of Indian River. It was a classic matchup and both men showed up and showed out. Indian River won a close game, but Ellis was tremendous with 27 points and 12 rebounds, plus he put the Lincoln program in the national spotlight.

5. Lincoln faced East Aurora in the state quarterfinals in the 1989 opening

led

game. East Aurora had the ball with the score tied at 70-70 and were holding for a final shot to win the game. They could have ended Lincoln’s three-peat dreams on the first day. However, junior forward Cuonzo Martin stole a pass and threw it down to the other end of the court. Senior forward Sharif Ford chased the ball down and in one motion, threw the ball at the basket. The ball went in, and Lincoln

SportS EyE

With Alvin A. Reid

scored an improbable win at the buzzer to keep their hopes alive.

Earl’s World

The Orlando Magic’s search for a shooting guard ended with Memphis’ Desmond Bane. The blockbuster trade sent Kentavious CaldwellPope Cole Anthony and four first-round draft picks to the Grizzlies… The Phoenix Suns Kevin

Durant drama continues. Durant reportedly seeks a deal to either the Miami Heat, San Antonio Spurs, or Houston Rockets. He also had the New York Knicks on the wish list but the Knicks are not interested… Jake Fisher of The Stein Line reports that no team is interested in acquiring the Suns’ Bradley Beal and the $111 million left on the STL native’s salary.

Myles Rowe in a fast lane toward IndyCar series

Myles Rowe is a rising star with Indy NXT, the developmental racing series that often produces the newest IndyCar competitors.

Rowe took a major step toward becoming the third Black driver to compete the Indianapolis 500 when he finished second in the St. Louis Grand Prix on Sunday at World Wide Technology Raceway.

Rowe acknowledged the sacrifices his family made for his career. This includes his parents selling their wine store to help finance their son’s dream.

Alvin A.

Rowe’s driving skills and intelligence were essential as he maneuvered his No. 99 car from fourth on the grid at the race’s start to a second-place finish. It was Rowe’s best Indy NXT performance and marked his third podium appearance of the 2025 season.

“You had to have your thinking cap on. It was a bit of a chess game out there,” Rowe said of his run toward second with just five laps left in race.

“I wish we could have come away with a first. I think we could have done a little bit more. But it’s great to be on the podium on Father’s Day. I’m really blessed.”

Rowe’s father, Wayne, was in attendance, and

Rowe drives for the African American-owned Force Indy team. It was founded by former advertising executive Rod Reid in 2020 as part of the Race for Equality & Change diversity initiative by IndyCar and Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

IndyCar CEO Roger Penske selected Reid to assist with the development of young Black drivers, and he has become a mentor and strategist for Rowe.

Rowe became the first Black driver to win an IndyCar-sanctioned race on August 29, 2021, when he took the checkered flag of the second leg of the Cooper Tires USF2000 Grand Prix tripleheader in New Jersey Motorsports Park.

A move up from USF2000 to Indy NXT meant Rowe needed considerably more money to compete at a level two steps higher – and one step from IndyCar.

Rowe raised $250,000 through a GoFundMe campaign, and Reid convinced Penske to kick in a few hundred thousand dollars. It only covered Rowe for three Indy NXT (formerly Indy Lights) races.

Rowe had to show he had the right stuff for the tougher racing, which he did.

His drive on Sunday in St. Louis led Reid to call Rowe “a super smart driver.”

“Myles was very fantastic today. We could not ask him to do better,” said

Reid. Reid also touched on the importance of “representation” by Rowe, a young Black driver, in IndyCar racing.

“We know a lot of people are watching us as to what we’re trying to accomplish. We gotta win races. We know that our representation is very important.” Rowe, 24, missed three seasons of racing leading up to his USF2000 berth.

During his hiatus, Rowe began working towards the degree in film and screen

Myles Rowe was a cool customer minutes before the start of the St. Louis Grand Prix Indy NXT race on Father’s Day at World Wide Technology Raceway. He would finish second, the best result in his Indy NXT career.

winning smile and gave a thumbs up gesture to the St. Louis crowd.

The Reid Roundup

studies he earned from Pace University in New York. The second-place finish was Rowe’s best performance of the season and left him with 186 driver’s points, 87 behind Indy NXT points leader Dennis Hauger.

Australian Lochie Hughes won the St. Louis event, and Caio Collett was third.

After trophy presentations, the three celebrated by spraying champagne.

It’s a taste that Rowe enjoyed, as he flashed his

Myles Rowe is driving to join Willy T. Ribbs (1991) and George Mack (2002) as Black drivers to compete in the Indianapolis 500…The St. Louis Cardinals will celebrate Black Heritage Day on Sunday, June 22. Fans who purchase a special theme ticket for the game against Cincinnati will receive a St. Louis Stars replica jersey… According to nbadraftroom.com, St. Louis native and former Arizona star Caleb Love will go 54th overall to the Indiana Pacers in the second round of the NBA Draft…DC Defenders head coach Shannon Harris became the first HBCU alumnus to win a professional football championship in the U.S after leading DC to a 58-34 win over the Michigan Panthers in the UFL Championship game last Saturday in St. Louis…Angel Reese, 23, became the second-youngest WNBA player to tally a triple double last Saturday. Caitlin Clark did it twice last year at 22.

Reid

Coach

Lewis (far left)

the 1989 East St. Louis Lincoln Tigers to a historic third consecu-

state championship in the state of Illinois.

Courtesy photo

Photo by Alvin A. Reid / St. Louis American

City issues RFPs for work on tornado recovery effort

The City of St. Louis Building Division is soliciting proposals from firms interested in providing general contracting services (hiring, supervising and overseeing subcontractors) to perform work on properties in the city “for the purpose of protecting the health and safety of the public.” It also has issued RFPs for soliciting proposals from firms interested in providing program management services.

In addition, the Land Reutilization Authority in conjunction with St. Louis Development Corporation (SLDC) and in partnership with the Building Division is requesting proposals from St. Louis-certified eligible plumbing contractors for the destruction of up to 50 water taps of tornado-damaged buildings.

Contracting firms have until Friday June 20, 2025 to submit proposals for the projects, two of which will hire multiple contractors.

All three RFPs came from the city’s building divi-

sion. The tornado zone will be divided into three areas, according to documents for the general contractor RFP. The general contracting work will

be awarded to up to three firms “with the ability to immediately mobilize project teams in response to the disaster,” according to the city website.

Companies interested in

reviewing the requirements and applying for the RFPs can view all documentation on the City of St. Louis’ Supply Division website, stlouis-mo.gov/ government/departments/

The city has issued RFPs from firms to help with the massive recovery effort that is just beginning in St. Louis. It is seeking proposals for general contracting services, plumbing work, and management services.

supply For more updates, follow: The City of St. Louis Tornado Recovery website, stlouis-mo.gov/ tornado

FEMA: Here is process following assistance application

If you were affected by either of two recent federally declared disasters in Missouri – March 14-15 or May 16 – you may be eligible for assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

How to apply

To apply for FEMA disaster assistance, go online to DisasterAssistance. gov, call toll-free (800) 621-3362, or download the FEMA App

What to expect after applying A FEMA inspector may contact you to schedule a home inspection. To be prepared for the visit, please have the following documents:

• Identity: Social Security number, state driver’s license, state ID, or voter registration card.

• Proof of ownership and occupancy.

• Receipts of any items purchased prior to inspection.

• Pictures of any dam-

age that may now be repaired or cleared off the property.

During the appointment, FEMA inspectors will:

• Present their official FEMA ID badges.

• Confirm your FEMA case number.

• Review structural and personal property damage.

FEMA inspectors will not:

• Determine eligibility

• Take any money or

ask for credit card information.

• Take the place of an insurance inspection.

If you suspect that someone is not a legitimate FEMA inspector, do not provide your personal information, and contact local law enforcement about your concerns.

Your determination letter After the inspector’s visit, you will be sent a determination letter from FEMA either by mail or email.

FEMA will explain in the letter whether you are eligible for assistance, how much, and how the assistance must be used.

If your letter says your application cannot be approved, it does not mean you’re denied. The letter explains how to appeal the decision if you do not agree with it. For an overview of the appeal process, visit How Do I Appeal FEMA’s Decision?

Disbursement

When filling out your

application, you can select how you want to receive your assistance funds: physical check in the mail, direct deposit into your bank account, or a form of digital payment.

Homeowners and renters affected by the May 16 disaster in St. Louis City, St. Louis County and Scott County may also be eligible for FEMA assistance that includes rental assistance, lodging expenses reimbursement, home repair and other needs.

Photo courtesy of KSDK

Living It

Muny’s ‘Bring

It On:

The

Musical’

shines despite storyline missteps

By Kenya Vaughn The St. Louis American

From the first scene of “Bring It On: The Musical,” the first production of The Muny’s 107th season, it becomes clear why they received a Tony Award two weeks ago.

It’s as if Jonalyn Saxer was created in a lab to play Campbell for this production. She instantly draws the audience in with her portrayal of the high school senior who is on the verge of having the senior year of her dreams by becoming captain of the Truman High School cheerleading squad.

“What I Was Born to Do,” demonstrates the vocal acrobatics of the cast before any bodies fly through the air in the perfectly executed cheer routines. The

cheer performances are stunning. They are tossed so far in the air that the audience’s reactions are more along the lines of the gasps that ensue during gravity defying stunts of circus acrobats, tightrope walkers and aerialists.

The bar is set so high by the first cheer routine, that it feels impossible to be eclipsed. Yet they do, with precise movements in perfect sync and an overload of charm.

By the reprise of the third song, “One Perfect Moment,” there is an overwhelming feeling of “No matter what happens next, I’m going to love it.”

At this very instant, the problematic creative liberties taken by “Bring It

On: The Musical” writer Jeff Whitty begin. His antics serve up cringeworthy moments that would dampen the experi-

ence if the production wasn’t so stellar from a technical and performance standpoint.

Because of the show’s title, those who attend are more than likely expecting the story to follow – or at least be similar to – the “Bring It On” film franchise that premiered twenty five years ago. The original on-screen story was rooted in the frustration of an inner-city cheer team having their routines appropriated by a suburban high school team, who is lauded for the stolen moves.

Midway through the first act, The Muny audiences learn the difference between “inspired by” and “based on.” The 2011 musical is described as “loosely based” on the film. The storyline con-

See Muny, C3

Raising funds and lifting spirits

June 29 tornado benefit concert to feature BeBe Winans with SLSO at The Fox

By American Staff

Grammy Award-winning gospel veteran BeBe Winans had one question when he bid farewell immediately following the IN UNISON 2024 “Lift Every Voice” Black History Month Concert.

“St. Louis, can I come back,” Winans said. “A resounding ‘yes’ rang through Stifel Theatre as the audience leapt to their feet for a standing ovation. He kept his word – and for a worthy cause. Winans will join The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra (SLSO) and The Fabulous Fox as they team up for a paywhat-you-wish performance featuring Winans at 3 p.m. on Sunday, June 29.

SLSO Music Director Stéphane Denève and IN UNISON Chorus Director Kevin McBeth will lead the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra alongside members of the St. Louis Symphony IN UNISON

“It was the most exhilarating feeling in the world.”

- ‘F1’ actor Damson Idris on driving Formula 1 race cars

A 10th trip to Worlds

Cheerleading Worlds in Orlando Florida.

Platinum level championship cheering in the sunshine state

By Taylor Marrie

The St. Louis American

As I boarded a plane for Orlando, Florida on Thursday, April 24, my trip wasn’t to take advantage of the sites and experiences that have made the city a global tourist attraction. The purpose of my visit was tied to my lifelong passion for cheerleading. I celebrated the milestone of my tenth year of competing at the Cheerleading Worlds, which was held April 25- April 28 at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex this year.

Though I am no stranger to Worlds, the awe and wonder of the experience feels like it’s the very first time. 2025 was a bit different for me because it was my first year with a new gym. This year, I suited up with Platinum Athletics, a nationally renowned gym in Maryland Heights.

Chorus and the St. Louis

“Music has the unique ability to provide comfort and healing, and build bridges between communities,” said

BeBe Winans as he performed with the IN UNISON Chorus, under the direction of Kevin McBeth, for their annual ‘Lift Every Voice’ Black History Month program on Feb. 23, 2024 at Stifel Theatre. The Grammy winner will once again share the stage with SLSO and IN UNISON for a special benefit concert on June 29 at The Fabulous Fox to benefit the tornado relief efforts of the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis.

By Wiley Price/ St. Louis American

Marie-Hélène Bernard, SLSO President and CEO. “This special concert honors and assists our friends and neighbors in need, while supporting the vital work of the Urban League in the aftermath

See SLSO, C3

n Though I am no stranger to Worlds, the awe and wonder of the experience feels like it’s the very first time.

Platinum required us to room with our teammates. Originally, I was a little bit nervous about it because of the extended amount of time together. But this was a really nice change. The bond that’s created when rooming with your teammates makes everyone remain on the same page and come together as teammates for the competition.

Friday morning, our team got up early and had a 30-minute practice on the hotel grass. Stunting in the grass allowed us to get accustomed to the sun and heat in Florida while getting used to warming up in the grass instead of a spring floor. My team was very enthusiastic about starting the weekend with a good mindset.

Many people on our team had never been to the world championships before but they were determined to work as hard as they could until the moment they took to the stage. This was my tenth time appearing at the Worlds, but this team’s drive and hard work was different from what I had experienced in prior years. I was used to having one practice in Florida to prepare for the competition, but with this team, we had multiple practices every day leading up to the performance.

I woke up with my roommate David ripping back the curtains and enthusiastically yelling “WAKE UP! IT’S COMP DAY!” David was my closest friend on the team and he was also in my stunt group for the competition – meaning that

Symphony Chorus. Winans will be a featured guest for the community-centered special event that will be held at The Fabulous Fox.

Photos by Taylor Marrie

St. Louis American’s own Taylor Marrie competed with Platinum Athletics, and they placed fifth at the 2025

Photo by Phillip Hamer/Courtesy of The Muny

The Muny opened its 107th season with the high energy ‘Bring It On: The Musical.’ St. Louis’ own Kennedy Holmes is among the stars of the production that continues through June 22 at The Muny in Forest Park.

Photo

JUNETEENTH FESTIVITIES

Thurs., June 19, 9 a.m.

Juneteenth at the Garden, Missouri Botanical Garden, 4344 Shaw Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63110. For more information, visit https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org.

Thurs., June 19, 12 p.m. House of Soul presents 6th Annual Juneteenth Festival, House of Soul, 1204 Washington Ave, Saint Louis, MO 63103. For more information, visit https:// www.instagram.com/houseofsoulstl/reels/.

Thurs., June 19, 6:30 p.m. Juneteenth Blues Jam with Kasimu Taylor, National Blues Museum, 615 Washington Ave, St. Louis, MO 63101. For more information, visit https:// www.nationalbluesmuseum.org/ live-music.

CONCERTS

Thurs., June 19, 7:30 p.m.

Ledisi with special guest Marsha Ambrosius: Love You Too, The Tour, Stifel Theatre, 1400 Market St, St. Louis, MO 63101. For more information, visit https://www.ticketmaster. com.

Sun., June 22, 8 p.m. Smino - Kountry Kousins, St. Louis Music Park, 750 Casino Center Dr, Maryland Heights, MO 63043. For more information visit https://www.ticketmaster. com.

Mon., June 23, 6:30 p.m., University City’s Starlight Concert Series welcomes national recording artist and St. Louis’ own Lynne Fiddmont, Heman Park. For more information, visit www. ucitymo.org.

Fri., June 27, 8 p.m. The Mixtape Unplugged Tour with Ja Rule, Chaifetz Arena, 1 S Compton Ave, St. Louis, MO

STL Sites & Sounds

63103. For more information, visit https://www.ticketmaster. com/.

SPECIAL EVENTS

Through June 22, Circus Flora: Urban Legend, Circus Flora, 3401 Washington Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63103. Various Showtimes available, for more information visit https://circusflora.org.

Fri., June 27, 7 p.m., The St. Louis County Library Foundation’s Westfall Politics & History Series presents An Evening with Former U.S. Senator Carol Mosley Braun, Clark Family Branch, 1640 S. Lindbergh, St. Louis MO 63131. For more information or for tickets, visit www.slcl.org.

Sat., June 28, 8 p.m. Schlafly’s Sunset Cinema, Schlafly’s Bottleworks, 7260 Southwest Ave, Maplewood, MO 63143. For more information, visit https://explorestlouis.com.

COMEDY

Wed., June 25, 7:30 p.m.

Special Event: Tahir Moore, Helium Comedy Club, 1151 St. Louis Galleria St, St. Louis, MO 63117. For more information, visit https://st-louis.heliumcomedy.com.

Sun., June 29, 7:30 p.m.

Special Event: The Underdogs of Comedy, Helium Comedy Club, 1151 St. Louis Galleria St, St. Louis, MO 63117. For more information, visit https://st-louis. heliumcomedy.com.

Thur., July 3-6, 7 p.m. Special Event: Rodney Perry, Helium Comedy Club, 1151 St. Louis Galleria St, St. Louis, MO 63117. Various showtimes available. For more information, visit https://st-louis.heliumcomedy. com/events/115252.

ST. LOUIS MUSIC SPOTLIGHT

Sat., June 21, 9 p.m. Golliday: Stripped at The Dark Room, The Dark Room, 3610 Grandel Sq, St. Louis, MO 63103. For more information, visit https:// kranzbergartsfoundation.org/ calendar/.

Through June 25, 5:30 p.m.

Live Art Market, City Foundry, 3730 Foundry Way, St. Louis, MO 63110. Wednesday only For more information visit www. cityfoundrystl.com.

Sat., June 28, 9 p.m. HOLLAAA! A Missy BDAY Tribute W/ Biko FKA Needles, Sophie’s Artist Lounge, 3333 Washington Ave, St. Louis, MO 63103. For more information, visit https://kranzbergartsfoundation.org/calendar/.

THEATRE

Through June 22, The Muny presents Bring It On: The Musical starring Kennedy Holmes, One Theatre Drive in Forest Park. For more information, call 314.361.1900 or visit muny.org.

Through June 21, 8 p.m. Rent, The Marcelle Theater, 3310 Samuel Shepard Dr. Saint Louis, MO 63103. For more information, visit https://kranzbergartsfoundation.org.

Sun., June 22, 7 p.m. This Will Be: The Spirit and Soul of Natalie Cole featuring Kimmie Kidd, Christina Yancy and Dereis Lambert, Blue Strawberry, 364 Boyle Ave. St. Louis, MO 63108. For more information, visit https://bluestrawberrystl.com/.

Through June 29, 7:30 p.m. Opera Theatre of Saint Louis presents This House, LorettoHilton Center, 130 Edgar Rd. Webster Groves, MO 63119. For more information, visit https:// opera-stl.org.

ART

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

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

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

University City’s Starlight Concert Series welcomes national recording artist and St. Louis’ own Lynne Fiddmont. See CONCERTS for more information.

we lift people together. After our roommates were awakened, we put on our routine music to get in the mindset to compete. One the bus ride over we continued playing our routine music as I sat in the back of the bus. Looking up to the front, I saw my team’s arms waving in the air as if they were doing the routine. The music played on repeat all the way to the venue – and my team practiced all the way. We pulled into the parking lot and saw the big red globe. Everyone knew it was time! After grabbing our bags, we went to the soccer field of the venue to get some extra stunt reps in. The sun was especially hot, but we stayed focused. We used chalk to keep the grip on the flyers shoes since the sun was making everyone sweat. It was then time to head to the practice room. This practice room is filled with the best cheerleading athletes in the world – which is especially daunting. But the team maintained their tunnel vision of our goal – focusing on ourselves instead of the competition. Our

SLSO

Continued from C1

of the May 16 tornado. The effort fortifies years of collaboration with the Urban League to uplift the community. We’re grateful to Fabulous Fox for opening its doors to the community for this event.”

All funds raised will benefit the Urban League and support the most immediate needs of people displaced or impacted in north St. Louis, including:

• Large-scale food distribution

• Temporary hotel housing

• Necessities such as toiletries and personal care items

• Emergency building supplies

“The Urban League is incredibly proud to partner once again with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and the Fabulous Fox for our neighbors in need who have suffered tragic losses from the recent tornado,” said Michael P. McMillan,

other mission was completing our routine with no mistakes or “hitting zero” (zero deductions). We were the next team to take the stage as David peeped out to the crowd.

“Guys it’s super chill out there, no reason to be nervous,” David said. “The crowd isn’t even that big.” David intentionally lied to keep our team calm, because as we took the stage the crowd erupted with cheers. As our music started, a calm gathered over the team and you could tell we were focused. There were little moments on the stage that stuck out to me. I threw my flyer up in the air and when she came down, she stuck her tongue out to David – and we all laughed as we were performing. Towards the end of the routine, everyone on stage was screaming as we looked to the crowd and our coaches held up a big Zero with their arms meaning we “hit zero” or had zero mistakes. After our music ended my team immediately started crying with joy and ran backstage to celebrate. Our coaches ran back to greet us and congratulate us. After we watched a video of our perfect routine my team chanted all the way down the hallways until we got outside.

President and CEO of The Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis.

“All of the proceeds from this amazing afternoon of music will go to our Disaster Relief Fund, providing much needed assistance to our community.”

Funds will also support partner churches affected by the tornado in the SLSO’s IN UNISON program, which has connected congregations primarily in north St. Louis to the orchestra for more than 30 years. Nine of the SLSO’s partner churches sustained damage from the tornado. Patricia Penelton, a charter member of IN UNISON Chorus, tragically passed away in the collapse of the Centennial Church on May 16. The program includes music of reflection, hope, and resilience in a performance that celebrates Penelton’s great life, and partner institutions’ enduring community bonds and a shared commitment to help neighbors recover, rebuild, and heal.

When we woke up on Sunday for early morning practice, Our bodies were very tired and sore. We practiced in the tent on the spring floor for two hours. We made our routine harder to gain more points. We then had a practice from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. that night. That practice didn’t end very well. One of our athletes had a broken hand, one had a pulled hamstring. Another had multiple jammed fingers. One couldn’t get off the ground during the end of practice because they hurt their back. The team seemed pretty scared but were hopeful that a good night’s rest would help us recover.

We took the stage on Monday. Everything went better than the first day until one of our stunts fell out of the air. The rest of the routine was perfect, but the team was disappointed in our performance. We gathered after our performance and tried to encourage each other and acknowledge that we’ve worked really hard and we were proud of each other. At the awards ceremony we learned we came in 5th place in the world. We agreed that everyone will try to be on the team for the next year to achieve our goal of getting top 3 in the world.

“We are honored to collaborate with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra to host this special benefit concert at The Fabulous Fox,” said Jeff Antrainer, The Fabulous Fox President & CFO. “In the wake of the recent tornadoes that have impacted our community, it’s imperative that we come together to support those affected. Partnering with the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis allows us to directly contribute to the relief efforts and aid in the recovery process. We hope this event will not only raise essential funds but also uplift the spirits of our neighbors during this challenging time.”

The special benefit concert will take place at 3 p.m. on Sunday, June 29 at The Fabulous Fox. Paywhat-you-wish general admission tickets are available now at SLSO. org. Donations can be made directly to the Urban League’s Disaster Relief Fund at www.ulstl.com/ benefit-fund.html#/

Muny

Continued from C1

nection between the film and the musical is about as loose as waistband elastic on the favorite sweatpants of a couch potato.

In an outlandish turn of events, Whitty decides to flip the script in a manner that turns Campbell into the saving grace of her urban counterparts. “Bring It On: The Musical” belongs in the canon of well-intentioned, yet problematic works that lean on stereotypes and lack authenticity or context with respect to characters with diverse backgrounds. It belongs right alongside “West Side Story” and “Porgy and Bess.”

The difference is that the aforementioned staples were originally produced decades before cultural sensitivity was a thing in the United States – or anywhere else. In all fairness to him, until the recent political climate there was a fast track towards inclusion in the past decade that made certain perfectly acceptable tropes, stereotypes and insensitive humor of that time elicit instant cringes.

But The Muny’s production is so top tier that the storyline could never

make the audiences not root for the show, or applaud performances that captivate from start to finish.

And Kennedy Holmes deserves – and received – a standing ovation for her portrayal of Danielle. When she enters, “Bring It On: The Musical” the already top-notch production is elevated to the stratosphere. And by the second song, “We Ain’t No Cheerleaders,” audiences will say the same thing they’ve been repeating since her portrayal of Little Inez in The Muny’s production of “Hairspray” just over a decade ago.

“Kennedy Holmes is a star.” As she enters adulthood, it is clear that Holmes has been putting in the work to ensure that her skills match her natural talent. She is a triple threat, quadruple if one counts cheerleading. And each scene she’s in seems to elevate the performance of her costars. Saxer and Holmes have impeccable chemistry – which is the case for the entire cast.

The stamina of the ensemble for this production cannot be overstated. They sing. They dance. They act. They cheer. They make doing them all at the same time look easy – which is more impressive when one considers

the vocal demands of the musical numbers. The cast must belt out high notes with complex improvisations and runs after a dance number or cheer routine that would prove too much for many singers belting them out while standing still.

Holmes, Saxer and Katy Geraghty are among the best in show among an ensemble of vocal athletes.

The production value also delivers big for “Bring It On: The Musical.” Ann Beyersdorfer’s set design, Tristan Raines’ costume design and Caite Hevner’s video design work together to create a visually stimulating experience. Director Denis Jones deserves a nod for his intentional pacing that keeps the sting from cringeworthy moments at a minimum. Cheer consultant and choreographer Ryan Martin O’Connor deserves his own Tony Award for how he masterfully orchestrated movements that cheerleaders usually have an entire gymnasium floor to perform within the confines of The Muny stage.

The Muny’s presentation of “Bring It On: The Musical” continues through June 22. For more information, call 314.361.1900 or visit www.muny.org.

Photo by Phillip Hamer/Courtesy of The Muny

Taylor Sage Evans, Kennedy Holmes and Jonalyn Saxer in a scene from The Muny’s production of “Bring It On.”

SLDC IS EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

The St. Louis Development Corporation (SLDC) is eagerly seeking candidates to join our team as we endeavor to bring economic justice to St. Louis City residents and communities that were disproportionately impacted by the coronavirus pandemic.

There are multiple 2-4-year limited term positions available, term of employment will vary for each position.

These positions will assist in the administration and implementation of various Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund (SLFRF) Programs targeted for households, small businesses and communities adversely impacted by the pandemic.

All positions will be funded in whole or in part through an allocation of Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) from the US Department of the Treasury and the City of St. Louis’ Community Development Administration.

To apply online and see a full job description go to https://www.developstlouis.org/careers and then click “Open Positions & Apply Online.”

LOUIS SEWER DISTRICT

The Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District’s Board of Trustees is accepting resumes for appointment to the District’s Civil Service Commission. Candidates must be a resident and registered voter in St. Louis City or County for three years prior to appointment and for the duration of their term on the Commission. Ideal candidates must have daytime flexibility and some Human Resources experience. Civil Service Commissioners convene several times a year for personnel administration and employee disciplinary hearings in accordance with MSD’s Civil Service Rules and Regulations. Each Commissioner is compensated $25 per meeting, with a maximum annual sum of $600.

Please submit cover letter and resume before 6/30/2025 to:

Tracey R. Coleman, Director of Human Resources Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District 2350 Market Street St. Louis, MO 63103 Information may also be emailed to: CSCommissioner@stlmsd.com

CITY OF PASADENA HILLS REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

The City of Pasadena Hills, Missouri is requesting proposals for the Construction of Pasadena Hills Pond Deck. Specifications of the bidding process, inclusive of (General Scope of Work, Drawings and Proposal Requirements) may be obtained on the City of Pasadena Hills website. www.pasadenahillsmo.us

Sealed bid proposals should be submitted no later than June 29, 2025, at: 4:00 pm at:

3915 Roland Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63121. Office Hours: Monday -Thursday 10:30 am- 4:30p.m (314) 382-4453

The proposal shall be titled and addressed:

Proposal - Pasadena Hills South Pond Deck Replacement City of Pasadena Hills

3915 Roland Blvd. Pasadena Hills, Missouri 63121

ATTN: City Clerk

To schedule a Contractors Site Walk or questions contact:

Mr. Jim Schulte, City Project Manager Pasadena Hills Building Commissioner

Email Address: jas7450@yahoo.com Cell: 314-972-2100

MANUFACTURING ENGINEER I

Purem Novi, Inc. seeks a Manufacturing Engineer I for a position in St Louis, MO. Qualified candidates must have 2 yrs exp as a Process Technician or a sub. sim. position. Email resumes to: Katherine.Gutzeit@purem.com

SENIOR DEVELOPER

World Wide Technology Holding Company, LLC has openings for Sr. Dvlpr rspnsbl to Dsgn, dvlp, and mntn effcnt data pipelines to ingst, clean, trnsfrm, and prpre data for analysis, model training and infrnc. Req Bach deg. In cmptr scnc or a clsly rltd fld, + 5 yrs. of exp as a sftwr dvlpr or in any occptn in which the exprnc was gained. This pstn is 100% rmte and can be prfrmd from any home office in the US. The pstn rprts to hdqrtrs in Mrylnd Heights, MO. Send resume to Adam.Crider@wwt.com, reference ID No. WWT-047 in email.

LETTING NO. 8790

DEMOLITION OF MISSOURI AIR NATIONAL GUARD, JET LINX, AND CREDIT UNION BUILDING ST. LOUIS LAMBERT INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Electronic bids submitted through the Bid Express Online Portal will be received by the Board of Public Service until 1:45 PM, CT, on JULY 15, 2025, then publicly opened and read. Proposals must be submitted electronically using “Bid Express Online Portal” at https://www. bidexpress.com/businesses/20618/home.

The bidder must pay $50 to submit a bid through the Bid Express service. Monthly subscriptions are available.

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

An optional pre-bid conference for all contractors bidding on this project will be held in the Ozark Conference Room on the 4th floor of the Airport Office Building (AOB) located at 11495 Navaid Road, Bridgeton, MO 63044 on June 24th, 2025 at 10:00 AM. All bidders are strongly encouraged to attend the pre-bid meeting.

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

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

St. Louis Univ. PhD Bus. Admin. w/ emphasis in Op Mgt, Mgt Sci, Bus Analytics, or related, or PhD in emphasis area (can be foreign eq.); proficiency math. modeling & optimization, teaching skills, research record; full descr. & apply slu. wd5.myworkdayjobs. com/Careers

PUBLIC NOTICE REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

-DBE

SUBCONTRACTORSWrightServices,Construction Inc. is soliciting DBE subcontractors for the projectfollowing Lambert C&D Concourse Reactivation –Package A. To acquire plans and specs please call us at 636.220.6850. Please submit bids by June 30th, 2025 to Bids@ WrightConstruct.com

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

St. Louis Development Corporation (“SLDC”) is seeking proposals for executive recruitment services to assist with locating qualified applicants for its President & CEO. Firms interested in providing these services are encouraged to download SLDC’s Request for Proposals at the link below. Responses to the RFP are due not later than July 11, 2025. https://www.stlouismo.gov/government/ departments/sldc/ procurement/executiverecruitmentservices-rfp_.cfm

HOUSING PROGRAM MANAGER

The Housing Partnership, Inc. is seeking a Housing Program Manager who will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Homebuyer Services program. For details go to www. TheHousingPartnershipSTL. org. Please submit a cover letter and resume to The Housing Partnership, Inc., 729 Lemay Ferry Rd, St. Louis, Missouri 63125 or via email to amy@thpstl. org. Apply by Monday, July 7, 2025. An Equal Opportunity Employer.

REQUEST FOR BIDS

Hankins Construction Co. is requesting bids from MBE/WBE/SDVE/DBE Subcontractors and Suppliers for our proposal on the Saint Louis County Queeny Park Playground Area Amenities Phase 1 & 2. A diversity goal of 25% MBE and 12% WBE has been established for this project. To access the bid documents, or if you have any questions, please email/call Nicole at Office@HankinsMidwest. com /314-426-7030 Please submit bids to Bids@ HankinsMidwest.com by 10:00 AM on 6/26/2025. Hankins Construction Co. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

The School District of University City is seeking sealed proposals for Flynn Park Elementary School Gymnasium Improvements. Proposals are due by 2:00 PM on July 7th, 2025. A mandatory pre-bid walkthrough will be held at 10:00 AM on June 27th, 2025, at Flynn Park Elementary School, located at 7220 Waterman Avenue, University City, MO 63130. For more information and the complete RFP package, please contact Likitha Kaki at lkaki@ kwamebuildinggroup.com.

St. LouiS american Bids &

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

# 57825168, MODULAR CLASSROOM FACILITY

Harris-Stowe State University (HSSU) is requesting proposals from qualified individuals or organizations to provide and install a Modular Classroom Facility. If interested, a copy of the request for proposals can be obtained by emailing Barbara A. Morrow at email address: morrowb@hssu.edu

Proposals must be emailed no later than 10:00 a.m. CST on Tuesday, July 1, 2025 (there will not be a public opening), and must be emailed to: morrowb@hssu.edu

The University reserves the right to accept or reject any or all responses received, or to cancel this request in part or in its entirety if it is in the best interests of the University to do so.

CITY OF ST. LOUIS BOARD OF PUBLIC SERVICE

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS for PROFESSIONAL SERVICES FOR CONSOLIDATED RECEIVING AND DISTRIBUTING FACILITY (CRDF) AT ST. LOUIS LAMBERT INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT. Statements of Qualifications due by 5:00 PM CT, WEDNESDAY, JULY 2, 2025 through the Bid Express online portal at https://www.bidexpress.com/ businesses/20618/home?agency=true. RFQ may be obtained from BPS website https://www.stlouis-mo.gov/ government/departments/ public-service/bps-onlineplan-room.cfm under On Line Plan Room-Plan Room, or call Board of Public Service at 314-589-6214. MBE/ WBE goal is 25% and 5%, respectively.

CITY OF ST. LOUIS BOARD OF PUBLIC SERVICE

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS for PROFESSIONAL SERVICES FOR OWNER CONTROLLED INSURANCE PROGRAM SERVICES AT ST. LOUIS LAMBERT INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT. Statements of Qualifications due by 5:00 PM CT, MONDAY, JUNE 30, 2025 through the Bid Express online portal at https://www.bidexpress.com/ businesses/20618/home?agency=true. RFQ may be obtained from BPS website https://www.stlouis-mo.gov/ government/departments/ public-service/bps-onlineplan-room.cfm under On Line Plan Room-Plan Room, or call Board of Public Service at 314-589-6214. MBE/WBE goal is 25% and 5%, respectively.

SEALED BIDS

Bids for Phase II Electrical Replacement & Replace Generators & Transfer Switches, Infrastructure, Algoa Correctional Center Project No. C240201 will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, July 10, 2025. Project information available at: http://oa.mo. gov/facilities

SEALED BIDS

Bids for Upgrades and Renovations, Project No. U180501 will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, 7/8/25. Project information available at: http:// oa.mo.gov/ facilities

NORMANDY SCHOOLS COLLABORATIVE NORMANDY HIGH SCHOOL VIKING HALL AND ATHLETIC FIELD IMPROVEMENTS REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS Normandy Schools Collaborative (NSC) will be

sealed bids from qualified bidding General Contractors (GC) for the construction improvements for the Viking Hall and Athletic Field concession stands, restrooms and miscellaneous improvements including HVAC, Plumbing and Electrical work at the Normandy High School. The entire bid package will be available electronically on Monday, June 9th by contacting TR,i Architects via email at dave.yancik@ triarchitects.com or karen.huntington@kai-db.com Estimated Construction Value is $600,500.00. The project includes Business and Workforce Diversity Goals. One (1) mandatory Pre-Bid Informational Meeting will be held Tuesday, June 17th @ 2:00 pm. (CST). At this meeting, subcontractors, suppliers and vendors will receive project information and meet the qualified bidding GC’s. Only qualified bidding GC’s are eligible to submit bids. All subcontractors, suppliers and vendors are eligible to submit proposals to qualified bidding GC’s. To download the entire Advertisement for Bid please visit the listed Plan Rooms or contact Dave Yancik with TR,i Architects at dave.yancik@ triarchitects.com or Karen Huntington with KAI at karen.huntington@kai-db.com

PUBLIC NOTICE

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

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

EVENT TENT RFP 2025

The Saint Louis Zoo seeks bids from qualified firms to submit proposals. Bid documents are available as of 6/18/25 on the Saint Louis Zoo website: stlzoo.org/vendor

SOLICITING BIDS

Great Rivers Greenway is soliciting sealed bids via Bid Express for River des Peres: Signage Replacement Project in St. Louis, Missouri. Go to https:// greatriversgreenway. org/bids/ submit by July 22, 2025.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

ALL HAZARDS COMMUNICATIONS TECHNICIAN COURSE FOR UASI PROGRAM

East-West Gateway Council of Governments is seeking submittals from consultants to provide an All Hazards Communications Technician Course for the UASI Program, funded by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security/FEMA. Submittals are due no later than 1:00 p.m. on July 18, 2025. D/S/W/MBEs are encouraged to submit proposals. Find submittal details at www.ewgateway.org.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS COMPLEX COORDINATED TERRORIST ATTACK EXERCISE SERIES FOR UASI PROGRAM

East-West Gateway Council of Governments is seeking submittals from consultants to design and conduct an Exercise Series related to the Complex Coordinated Terrorist Attack project for the UASI Program, funded by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security/FEMA. Submittals are due no later than 1:00 p.m. on July 18, 2025. D/S/W/MBEs are encouraged to submit proposals. Find submittal details at www.ewgateway.org

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE:

Advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, imitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial\status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.

“We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.” Call Angelita Houston at 314-289-5430 or email ahouston@stlamerican. com to place your ads today!

NOTICE OF FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT AND NOTICE OF INTENT TO REQUEST RELEASE OF FUNDS

Date of Publication: 6/19/2025

City of St. Louis: Community Development Administration (CDA) 1520 Market Street St. Louis, Missouri 63103 314-657-3700 / 314-589-6000 (TDD)

These notices shall satisfy two separate but related procedural requirements for activities to be undertaken by the City of St. Louis (“The City.”)

REQUEST FOR RELEASE OF FUNDS

On or after 7/7/2025, the City will submit a request to the U.S. Dept. of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) for the release of the City’s Federal HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) funds under Title II of the Cranston – Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act of 1990, as amended, to undertake the following project:

Project Title: Fields Place at Natural Bridge

Purpose: New Construction of one (4) four-story residential building. When completed, this development will contain a total of fifty (50) residential units for Seniors 62 + comprised of fourteen (14) one-bedroom, twenty-six (26) two-bedroom units.

Location: 4300 Natural Bridge Avenue, Saint Louis, MO 63115

Estimated Cost: Total development cost of this project is approximately $17,858,464, with approximately $400,000 of funding coming from St. Louis City’s Year 2022 Federal HOME Program Funds, Grant #M-22-MC-29-0500.

FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT

The City has determined that this project will have no significant impact on the human environment. Certain conditions will apply to this project. Therefore, an Environmental Impact Statement under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) is not required. Additional information for each project is contained in the Environmental Review Record (ERR) on file at the City CDA, at the above address, where the ERR is available for review and may be examined or copied, weekdays 8 A.M. to 4 P.M., or visit https://cpd.hud.gov/cpd-public/ environmental-reviews to review the HUD ERR.

PUBLIC COMMENTS

Any individual, group, or agency may submit written comments on the ERR to Trey McCarter, Community Development Planner III, CDA, at the address listed above. All comments received by 7/6/2025 will be considered by the City prior to authorizing submission of a request for release of funds. Comments should specify which notice they are addressing.

RELEASE OF FUNDS

The City certifies to HUD that, Nahuel Fefer, in his capacity as Executive Director, consents to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal Courts if an action is brought to enforce responsibilities in relation to the environmental review process and that these responsibilities have been satisfied. HUD’s approval of the certification satisfies its responsibilities under NEPA and related laws and authorities and allows the City to use the City’s above-referenced HUD program funds.

OBJECTION TO RELEASE OF FUNDS

HUD will accept objections to its release of funds and the City’s certification for a period of 15 days following the anticipated submission date or its actual receipt of the request (whichever is later) only if they are on one of the following bases: a) the certification was not executed by the Certifying Officer of the City; b) the City has omitted a step or failed to make a decision or finding required by HUD regulations at 24 CFR Part 58; c) the grant recipient has committed funds or incurred costs not authorized by 24 CFR Part 58 before approval of the release of funds by HUD; or d) another Federal agency acting pursuant to 40 CFR Part 1504 has submitted a written finding that the project is unsatisfactory from the standpoint of environmental quality. Objections must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the required procedures (24 CFR Part 58.76) and shall be addressed to the HUD St. Louis Field Office, CPDRROFSTL@hud.gov. Potential objectors should contact HUD to verify the actual last day of the objection period.

Nahuel Fefer Certifying Officer

NOTICE TO CONSULTANTS

The St. Louis County Department of Transportation is requesting the services of a highly-qualified consulting engineering firm to perform professional engineering services for the Hanley Road – Litzsinger Road to Manchester Road & Parker Road – Rte. 367 to Bellefontaine Road projects (St. Louis County project numbers AR-1926 & AR-1823).

Full details for these projects, including submittal requirements and deadline, will be available on June 16, 2025 from the St. Louis County Vendor Self-Service portal: https://stlouiscountymov endors.munisselfservice. com/Vendors/default.aspx

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS

Alpha Terrace Apartments 6105 Etzel Avenue St. Louis, MO 63133 1-bedroom income-based rent apartments. *Age restrictions apply. Stop by the office or call 314-862-5668 for more details. Applications can be returned to the office Monday-Friday, 8am-4:30pm.

Religion

STL Ecumenical Council to honor, support non-profits

By Alvin A. Reid St. Louis American

They are struggling so The Ecumenical Leadership Council of Mo—St. Louis Chapter is hosting a reception for a trio of small non-profits that are continue their respective effort of providing meals and offering accommodations for families now homeless following the May 16, 2025, tornado.

The reception will be held at 6 p.m. Friday June 27, 2025 in the Rotunda at St. Louis City Hall, 1200 Market Street.

Small non-profits to be recognized at the reception include Wesley House, which has been feeding displaced residents; Annie Malone Children’s Home, which is providing a safe and secure environment for the children, and Hope House STL, which has been housing families that found themselves homeless and without home insurance (Hope House STL).

Bishop Lawrence M. Wooten, Ecumenical Leadership Council president, said “Although there are many local agencies providing help during this crisis, we selected Hope House STL, Wesley House, and Annie Malone Children’s Home because of their efforts to reduce the challenges faced by those impacted by the tornado.”

“We are grateful for the help of Alderwomen Pam Boyd and Laura Keys in addition to Kelley Hoskins of KTVI for helping to bring the idea of a fundraiser to reality.”

Wooten, pastor of Williams Temple Church of God In Christ, also thanked musicians Bell Darris and the Readus

Miller Project “for adding their talents to the event’s entertainment”.

Tickets will be available at the three non-profits, at the door on June 27, and by calling (314) 721-2288.

City Hall is an appropriate place for the reception because the Ecumenical Society was founded following one of St. Louis most controversial political actions.

According to the Society website, the organization was formed in response to the wrongful and racially fueled demotion of then - Fire Chief Sherman George by former Mayor Francis Slay in 2007.

George, the city’s first African American fire chief in the history of the City of St. Louis, had battled Slay over several issues including racially bias tests for promotion.

Rather than accept the demotion, George resigned the position.

The ELC was formed to “thoughtfully but aggressively address issues of racial grievances as a clergy body.”

“The thought was that pastors have both the moral authority, and the economic independence to be able to request and even demand that the system change.”

More than 700 churches with an array of denominations from throughout Missouri and the Metro East are represented by the Ecumenical Council.

Centennial congregation in temporary home

Centennial Christian is meeting at Florissant Christian

Church on Sundays for worship, according to Rev. Chris Franklin.

“[The congregation] voted Sunday to continue to worship in our building until they can rebuild in the community of their old church,” said Franklin.

“We are a sister disciple church and have a long relationship with Centennial Christian. We exchanged elders once a month in the 70s for Communion.”

Rev. Dietra Wise Baker told the St. Louis American following the devastating May 16, 2025 tornado that insurance will cover some of the rebuilding expenses, but the church must raise most of the funds needed for the extensive demolition and reconstruction project that is expected to take at least four years. She is steadfast that the church will not leave the Fountain Park neighborhood and

Freedom was declared. But arrival came late. And for some, it still hasn’t come.

June 19, 1865. Picture this: the blistering sun over Galveston, Texas. The smell of saltwater clinging to the breeze. A barefoot man hears words that ripple through the stillness — “You are free.”

Two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed, the last of our ancestors finally received the news. But freedom, as we’ve come to learn, is more than the absence of chains. Freedom is access. Freedom is agency. Freedom is ownership.

On that sacred day, we were promised a beginning — 40 acres to till and a mule to move forward. But what we received was a mirage. The Freedman’s Savings Bank opened with promises of security. We poured the modern equivalent of $20 million into it — our dreams, our faith, our future. And when it collapsed, so too did the hopes of a generation.

But we are still here. Still building. Still rising. Still sowing seeds in soil once salted by betrayal — turning grief into growth, and pain into principle.

So on this Juneteenth, we recommit. Not just to remembrance — but to the rebuilding of a covenant. A sacred, generational commitment to build Black wealth, pass down legacy, and shape a future where our descendants never start from scratch again.

And to our allies reading this — our neighbors, co-workers, board members, and friends — this isn’t just Black history. It’s American history. It’s not just our work — it’s an invitation. Because when any community rises, we all gain stability, creativity, and strength.

Every week, I meet people who are as diverse as the world — people who understand these principles for themselves and in their context. They’re trying to start businesses, buy homes, and claim dirt.

Not too long ago, I facilitated a session on Black Liberation Finance. In that class, I knew of people trying to make moves their grandparents didn’t even dream of making.

I hear people often talking about reparations — but they’re reframing it not as something that is given, but as something that is taken through work, labor, investment, and long-term, next-generation thinking.

That’s what covenant living looks like. Let these be our marching orders.

Let these be our covenant:

The 10 Black Commandments for Legacy and Liberation

1. Thou Shalt Own Property and Land Ownership is power. Our ancestors worked soil they did not own. Today, we must claim what they could not. Land is not just dirt — it is leverage, identity, and the cornerstone of generational wealth.

2. Thou Shalt Engage in Politics — From the Block to the Ballot Freedom without a voice is fragility. From zoning laws to school boards, local policies shape lives. We will vote with intention, run with conviction, and hold power accountable.

3. Thou Shalt Be Educated — In Mind, Trade, and Spirit

We were once punished for learning to read. Now, knowledge is our rebellion. From Ivy League halls to trade schools to barbershops — we will learn, teach, and liberate.

4. Thou Shalt Own and Champion Black Enterprise and Leadership Freedom must have a storefront — and a seat at the table. From

Acclaimed violinist Bell Darris will perform during a reception hosted by the Ecumenical Leadership Council of Missouri—St. Louis Chapter to support three non-profits helping victims of the May 16, 2025, tornado. Saxophonist Readus Miller will also provide entertainment at the City Hall rotunda reception.

will offer more community support once it is resurrected.

It will include a co-working space, a space that can be rented out for events, and a medical and affordable housing unit. Partnerships with private donors and other organizations, she believes, can help make this vision a reality.

“Affordable housing is going to be a major need now more than ever,” Wise Baker said.

The church, which is adjacent to Fountain Park, the site of the state’s only statue of Martin Luther King Jr., has served the area for decades by providing housing for seniors, healthcare assistance, and a preschool program.

Centennial is partnering with three regional and national organizations to help fund the rebuild. Disciples of Christ Pension Fund, National Benevolent Association, and the National Convocation of

the Christian Church will each donate $10,000 to the church’s recovery fund.

Metropolitan Congregations United (MCU) has also donated $100,000 to support both the church and the residents of Fountain Park.

Killed in the May 16 tornado was church moderator Patricia Penelton, a beloved member of the congregation and volunteer. DeMarco Davidson, MCU executive director, and Centennial leader Sherrill Jackson were pulled from the rubble of the church. They were meeting to discuss church community engagement plans.

“Our church has always been a place of refuge, prayer, and service to the community,” said Wise Baker.

“We are heartbroken by the damage but grateful for the outpouring of love and support from the community,”

corner hustles to corporate headquarters, Black entrepreneurship and executive leadership are resistance in motion. We will build, buy, believe in, and support Black — whenever and wherever possible. Celebrate those who walk into boardrooms with braids, brilliance, and boldness. Entrepreneurship and presence in positions of power are the new Underground Railroad.

5. Thou Shalt Work Hard and Work Smart

We come from people who worked for nothing. Now, every hour must mean something. We will outwork doubt. Outthink scarcity. Outmaneuver systems built to slow our stride. Strategy + Sweat = Legacy.

6. Thou Shalt Be Present in the Lives of Our Children Legacy doesn’t start in boardrooms. It starts in living rooms. We will mentor, model, and mold the next generation. We are the shoulders they can stand on. Everyone can invest in a child’s future — through mentoring, supporting early learning, or creating family friendly workplaces.

7. Thou Shalt Pass Down Knowledge and Wealth

If we die with our wisdom, we’ve failed. We will pass down more than money — stories, blueprints, habits, relationships, and ambitions. Let our last name open doors our first name never could.

8. Thou Shalt Master Financial Literacy and Strategy

Wealth that isn’t managed is wealth that disappears. We will budget without shame, invest with purpose, and diversify with wisdom. We will think longterm, act strategically, and teach others to do the same. Real estate. Private stock. Public stock. Side hustles. Land. We’ll learn the game — and change how we play it. Stack it. Grow it. Protect it. Pass it on.

9. Thou Shalt Build Networks and Influence Institutions

Wealth cannot thrive in isolation. We will move as a collective — building bridges in corporate towers and community centers alike. We will support the intrapreneurs — those reshaping power from within. We will not climb alone. We will lift as we rise. But rising requires more than presence. It requires partnership. Connect with those who genuinely want to see you win — regardless of what they look like. Find your allies. Forge coalitions built not just on identity, but on integrity, alignment, and shared purpose.

10. Thou Shalt Be Anchored in Faith and Purpose

We are not chasing riches. We are chasing purpose. Faith is our foundation. God is our guide. With every dollar, every decision, every dream — we honor something bigger than ourselves. Wealth is not the end. It is the means to bless others, break chains, and build the kingdom.

Final Word: From Emancipation to Empowerment

Juneteenth is not just about what was lost. It’s about what we are still building. From the ashes of broken promises, we forge unshakable principles. From the silence of systemic theft, we birth a symphony of strategy and strength.

This is our covenant. Not just a list of goals — but a spiritual contract with the generations that came before, and those yet to come. Let these commandments live in our homes. Let them breathe in our businesses. Let them anchor our schools, our churches, our policies. Let them guide our rise.

Your Charge: Choose one commandment. Live it this week. Share it with someone you love. Post it. Preach it. Pass it on. Then do it again next week. And the next.

May our labor yield legacy. May our faith birth freedom. And may our children never know the chains we broke — only the doors we built.

Photo courtesy of belldarris.com

Juneteenth and the Covenant of Economic Liberation

ORVIN T. KIMBROUGH Chairman and CEO, Midwest BankCentre

The Next MOVE