Hundreds marched from St. Alphonsus Ligouri “Rock” Catholic Church to the Boys and Girls Club of Greater St. Louis on Saturday, June 2 in the #WearOrangeSTL march against gun violence organized by Radio One St. Louis, Crimestoppers and Better Family Life.
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of orange T-shirts as hundreds made their way from St. Alphonsus Ligouri “Rock” Catholic Church to the Boys and Girls Club of Greater St. Louis. They were part of the #WearOrangeSTL march against gun violence organized by Radio One St. Louis, Crimestoppers and Better Family Life.
“To see senators, U.S. and state representatives, the community and people formerly from the streets come together –people who wouldn’t normally be in the same room – and stand against gun violence shows that this is a start of a movement,” said Christina Bailey, Radio One St. Louis sales manager. She is the lead of the Radio
Church gives free help obtaining IDs and birth certificates
Valid state ID now needed to vote in Missouri
By Ashley Jones For The St. Louis American
“Official identification is necessary for accessing so many things and basically navigating life,” said Christine Dragonette, director of Social Ministry at St. Francis Xavier (College) Church.
“Everything from employment, housing, social services, education, health services – a lot of time it’s a barrier that’s overlooked. It’s a gateway to all these other resources that are necessary for just living life.”
by
On May 30, Joyce Clark received free counseling from volunteer John Meyer on how to obtain needed documents as part of St. Francis Xavier (College) Church’s Social Ministry Outreach Program, 3628 Lindell Blvd. in St. Louis.
NAACP sues Trump’s Dept. of Education for new, lax civil rights policy
By Rebecca Rivas
President Donald Trump and U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos
Ever since the third grade, Dorothy Coleman’s twin daughters, now 15, have been called the N-word and bullied within the Wentzville School District – and harshly punished when they fight back, Coleman said. Her adoptive daughter who is going into fifth grade has been called the N-word since she was in kindergarten.
“It’s been so much,” Coleman said. “I have cried and gotten down on my knees and begged God to get some kind of help. It’s not just my kids; it’s other students too. But they just move out of the district instead of fighting back.” When Donald Trump became president, things only got worse.
“My daughter says, ‘It’s not just that they call us the N-word,’” Coleman said. “‘Mama, it’s the way they are saying it to us. They are saying it so dirty
Green: ‘Betrayal of progressive values the mayor sometimes pretends to hold’
By Rebecca Rivas Of The St.
Louis Mayor
St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson’s chief of staff, Tim O’Connell, is leaving his position, the mayor’s office confirmed on Friday, June 1. Krewson will replace him with City Assessor Steve Conway, previously alderman of the 8th Ward for almost three decades and Krewson’s longtime ally.
The mayor’s spokesman Koran Addo said the transition will happen in the next few weeks. O’Connell, whom Krewson hired shortly after she was elected in April 2017, is leaving to go back to practicing law, Addo said. “That is something he wanted to do,” Addo said. “The mayor is sad to see him go. No one was forced out. This is an amicable split.”
Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American
Photo by Wiley Price
Photo
Wiley Price
Woman claims Drake fathered her child in wake of rap beef
Pusha T.’s diss track that claims Drake has a secret child with an adult film star has led another woman to come forward to say that the rap star fathered her two-year-old son.
The woman used Instagram to accuse the rap star of being a deadbeat dad.
“You need to come see your son,” the Instagram user posts under the name pumpgangguyme. “Instead of making diss tracks, you need to be a father. Do you really think this is going to help And not only him, but my baby too that you helped bring into the world two years ago. It took rap to expose you to fatherhood? What kind of man is that? I don’t know, but you WILL help raise this one.”
The alleged mother also posted a picture of the toddler, who bears a
strong resemblance to the rapper.
“I’ve been trying to contact you for the last two years concerning our child and you have done nothing,” the woman said.
Tyrese seeking custody
Tyrese Gibson currently has 50/50 joint custody of his 10-yearold daughter alongside his ex-wife, Norma Gibson, but according to new court documents, it seems he is pushing for primary custody, which would see her move out to Atlanta to live with him.
According to the papers - which were
of the lack of paparazzi compared to the celebrity hotspot of LA.
“In Atlanta, we are free to move around the city without being harassed or photographed,” the papers reportedly say. Tyrese was awarded joint custody of Shayla last year after a lengthy and difficult court case which saw Norma allege that he had been physically violent to their daughter.
Janet Jackson gets the law involved
obtained by The Blast - Tyrese claims it is in “Shayla’s best interest” to relocate from Los Angeles, where she lives with her mother, to Atlanta.
The “Fast and Furious” star claims in the documents that he has “created a stable and loving environment” for his daughter, as he lives “in a 23,000 square foot home in an affluent and safe neighborhood in Atlanta.”
The star, who is expecting a second child with his wife, Samantha Lee Gibson, also claims the quality of life will be better in Atlanta, because
Janet Jackson called the police Saturday night over concern for her 1-year-old child, Eissa Al Mana, Entertainment Tonight reported.
“A watch commander with the Malibu County Sheriff’s Office tells ET that police responded to a call shortly before 10 p.m. at the Nobu Hotel, where they were called to check on the welfare of Jackson’s son, who was with his father, Jackson’s estranged husband, Wissam Al Mana. Jackson was not on the scene at the time.”
Janet’s brother, Randy Jackson, reportedly told ET that his sister called 9-1-1 after being contacted by a nanny who was helping Al Mana care for the child at the time. According to Randy, the nanny became frightened by Al Mana’s behavior which she believed was
aggressive. According to Randy, the nanny was “terrified by his behavior and locked herself in a bathroom, so she could contact Janet.”
Sources directly connected to Jackson and Al Mana reportedly told The Blast the welfare check Saturday night on the couple’s son was a result of the boy’s nanny seeking vengeance for not getting access to the hotel room’s WiFi. We’re told when Wissam refused to give her the password, she immediately called Janet and “stirred the pot” which ended with a visit from sheriff deputies.
Kim Kardashian convinces Trump to grant clemency to Alice Johnson
Last week, Kim Kardashian West visited Donald Trump at the White House to seek clemency for first time drug offender Alice Johnson, a grandmother who was sentenced to life in prison.
Yesterday, West took to her social media to share the news that her request has been granted by Trump.
“Best news ever,” West tweeted above a link to a news story that said Johnson will be released from the Alabama prison where she has spent the last 22 years.
Sources: Twitter, Instagram, The Blast, Entertainment Tonight
Tyrese
Janet Jackson
Ruby L. Bailey will become Columbia Missourian’s executive editor
Also will chair Missouri Community Newspaper Management at Mizzou
Columbia Missourian staff
A journalist whose reporting ranges from hyperlocal coverage of Michigan suburbs to the Iraq War and whose editing has spanned the evolution of print and digital editions wasnamed executive editor of the Columbia Missourian
Ruby L. Bailey, 51, a local news editor at the Sacramento Bee, will begin her new role on July 1. She will be the first woman to lead the Missourian’s coverage in the newspaper’s 109 years.
“This is an awesome responsibility, but also a privilege to represent the
industry I love and to help students prepare to take the baton and take over,” Bailey said.
“This is my chance to give back to a career and a life that has blessed me so richly and to help ensure that the function of the press remains strong. That starts in communities.” Bailey also will hold the Missouri School of Journalism’s Missouri Community Newspaper Management chair, working with community newspapers across the state to help improve their coverage and operations.
Ruby L. Bailey will be the first woman to lead the Columbia Missourian’s coverage in the newspaper’s 109 years.
“Ruby Bailey brings a rare set of skills and experience that make her the ideal next leader of the Columbia Missourian,” said David Kurpius, dean of
n “Whether interviewing a beat cop or the president of the United States, I was working to serve the readers.”
– Ruby L. Bailey
the school and publisher of the Missourian. “She cares deeply about connecting with communities, telling important stories and doing so in a way that keeps pace with the constant state of change in journalism today.”
At the Sacramento Bee, she led a team of reporters focused on increasing and improving the Bee’s digital content. She has experience covering and editing all aspects of local news, including business, entertainment and feature
coverage. Previously she worked for 16 years at the Detroit Free Press, where she was an assistant metro editor focused on improving the newspaper’s online edition. She also covered the 9/11 attacks, was embedded with the U.S. Navy to cover Operation Iraqi Freedom, was a Washington correspondent and a business and enterprise reporter. Before that, she worked as a reporter at the Detroit News and the Flint Journal. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Wayne State University.
“Ruby Bailey is the bold, innovative and experienced leader this community newspaper needs,” said Major Garrett, chief White House correspondent for CBS News and president of the Missourian Publishing Association, the non-profit Missourian’s governing board. “She is a reporter and newsroom leader who excelled as technology changed and economic
From convict to counselor
Unearned white privilege plus wealth equals self-reinvention
Five years ago I introduced you to St. Clair County Circuit Judge Mike Cook. You’ll recall that while presiding over drug court he was, hypocritically and ironically, a heroin addict himself.
He was also present when his friend and fellow judge Joe Christ died from a cocaine overdose at Cook’s family’s hunting lodge in Pike County, Illinois. Cook’s fall from grace
JUNETEENTHCelebration
challenges multiplied.” At the Missourian, students learn the practice of journalism by covering real news for a real audience. Its editors are members of the Journalism School’s faculty, but the reporting, photography, design and production of the print and digital editions are done by students of the school.
“My mission has always been to serve the readers. Whether interviewing a beat cop or the president of the United States, I was working to serve the readers,” Bailey said.
“When you come to Columbia with that kind of background, Columbia becomes home and its concerns are my concerns. Its successes and challenges are mine.” At the Columbian, Bailey replaces Mike Jenner, who has served as interim executive editor since January 2017. Jenner will return to his role on the journalism school faculty as the Houston Harte Endowed Chair.
eventually culminated in a twoyear federal prison sentence on drug and weapons charges.
Given the wealth and political influence of his father, attorney Bruce Cook, it was considered a mere slap on the wrist, especially given that he served his sentence in the “Four Seasons of prisons” in sunny Pensacola, Florida, which looks more like a college campus than jail. This “prison” has no barbed wire, guard towers or walls. Brunch is served every weekend and holidays, and it has its own movie theater, sports and recreational outlets. Prisoners are allowed to wear
civilian clothing, style their hair as they choose, and make visits off prison grounds. Prisoners (and I use the term loosely) can even work a day job and open a bank account.
Fast forward to 2018, and we now find that Cook participated in an online master of arts degree program in addiction studies during his incarceration and has been approved, via a motion by his attorney Clyde Kuehn, to travel, during his release and three-year probationary period, to complete a 700-hour clinical internship at the Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School of Addiction Studies in Center City, Minnesota.
The U.S. attorney’s office
for the Southern District of Illinois and Cook’s probation officer agreed to these terms, as well as allowing Cook to visit his wife and children on weekends. Ahhh, the luxuries of unearned white privilege in America.
I say this because I hardly think that Pookie, Man-Man or Rashad Jenkins – minus the wealth, influential daddy and uptown attorney – would have had the means or wherewithal to reinvent themselves and rebound in such glorious fashion.
No, the brother would have served his time in a less-thancomfortable prison environment and wouldn’t have had the access to the funds to complete a master’s degree and clinical program in drug addiction studies. Nor would he have been allowed to travel, as he pleased, upon release.
What would happen if universities and colleges partnered with the federal bureau of prisons to offer such opportunities, free of charge, to drug offenders and others who have the will, but lack the means, to reinvent themselves through education?
It would be a major paradigm shift, from the profitoriented prison-industrial complex mentality, to one of true prison reformation and transformation of individuals, versus simply warehousing them and repeating the cycle of recidivism. But I won’t hold my breath on that vision.
This isn’t a condemnation of Mike Cook, but it is a glaring example of the blatant disparities in the criminal justice system and also illustrative of how one may totally reinvent themselves, during incarceration, given the proper environment and access to educational opportunities, which Cook’s unearned white privilege and wealth afforded him.
Mayor Lyda Krewson’s first days in office were her best to date.
She immediately dispensed of the political liability of Police Chief Sam Dotson. We believe Dotson was more collateral damage from the police accountability protest movement than a truly bad actor himself, but the protest movement wanted him gone and Krewson sent him packing. Impressive.
The Ferguson Commission called for racial equity in every sector of society, and Krewson hired Nicole Hudson as a deputy mayor for racial equity. More impressive.
Krewson assumed power from Mayor Francis G. Slay, whose administration was dominated by the most racially divisive and bullying chief of staff in modern memory, Jeff Rainford. Krewson’s first hire for chief of staff was Tim O’Connell, an affable, likeable, liberal attorney with close friends throughout the city, skilled with working across barriers. Even more impressive. It seemed a new day had dawned.
The new day has not yet dawned.
Krewson replaced Dotson with Lawrence O’Toole, who presided, briefly, over a lawless police force that earned a federal court order to observe the U.S. Constitution and will cost city taxpayers many millions of dollars in civil judgments. Hudson has done little, if anything (that we are aware of) to advance racial equity. Not one initiative she has started has been announced to this newspaper or borne fruit. And now O’Connell is gone without doing anything to advance the city’s fortunes of which we are aware. Worse, Krewson replaced him with Stephen Conway, who is at best a low-wattage Jeff Rainford.
Conway told a reporter from The American that his policy stands are beside the point, since he was not hired as a policy advisor. While we consider that hogwash, even if it were true, it is telling that this mayor finds Conway someone worthy of her trust and her top staff job.
As longtime 8th Ward alderman, Conway voted against a bill that added pregnancy and other reproductive health decisions to the list of classes protected from discrimination. He fought for taxpayer funds to underwrite St. Louis’ most recent bid to lure yet another NFL franchise. He has been a longtime proponent of tax incentives for developers. He is a cop-hugger who sponsored Proposition P, the regressive sales-tax increase to boost police and firefighter salaries,
and publicly taunted Alderwoman Annie Rice, an independent who succeeded him in the 8th Ward, for participating in police accountability protests, saying she was just spending taxpayer dollars on police overtime.
Even more offensively, in 2000 Conway was one of only two aldermen who opposed a resolution calling on the U.S. Congress to establish a federal commission to study reparations for descendants of slaves. Conway told the Post-Dispatch that was tantamount to saying all white people were guilty of slavery, which he found “offensive.” He told the same reporter that he himself was in the victimized class as a descendent of Ireland, since the same British who drove the trans-Atlantic slave trade also oppressed the Irish.
To say Conway is yesterday would be too generous. Conway is 1950 at best. Krewson is flailing as a mayor, and leaning on Conway to right her dead-in-the-water ship is her biggest failure to date. If the progressive community can rally behind one candidate, she will be a oneterm mayor best remembered for doing too little when everything needed to be done.
Commentary
Why we are – or were? – family
By Mike Jones
Of The St. Louis American
The black community was forged in the crucible of slavery, but our modern political culture and identity were shaped in post-Civil War America on the anvil of Jim Crow. To understand the historical political development of the black community, you must recognize the only thing the defeat of the Confederacy changed for us was our legal status.
Though the 13th Amendment formally abolished slavery throughout the United States, factors such as Black Codes, white supremacist violence, and selective enforcement of statutes continued to subject black Americans to involuntary labor and considerably less than the equal protection of the law.
As Carter G. Woodson succinctly put it, “The poverty which afflicted them for a generation after Emancipation held them down to the lowest order of society, nominally free, economically enslaved.” I would argue socially enslaved as well.
It is from this reality over the next 100 years that the modern black political identity was formed. The bonds of community formed to survive slavery would also be the bulwark of the black community’s defense in apartheid America. The response to living with nominal freedom in Jim Crow America also produced a different leadership model for the black community than the one that evolved in white America.
The American cultural ideal is the preeminence of the individual over the community. America raises reverence for the individual to a religion. The most dominant strain in American political theory is that the purpose of government is not to provide for the general welfare, but to remove any constraints on the
individual, even at the expense of the common good. The 14th Amendment was drafted to insure newly emancipated blacks would be guaranteed equal protection of the law, but it has been used many more times to expand the legal rights of corporations and other commercial interests at the expense of the common good. Despite the myth-making that passes for the teaching of American political history, the American political leadership class has always been singularly focused on supporting and sustaining economic privilege. White political leaders are generally creatures of personal ambition; the key to advancing their ambition is to be of service to the economic elites that dominate American life. Because of how we were introduced into the North American narrative and the role we were assigned, we couldn’t and can’t assume that the way America works for white people is the way America works for us. While white America’s model was based upon the atomized individual, the model for black America was communal. After the Civil War we were no longer chattel property, but what emancipation and slavery had in common is we were still black and oppressed. No amount of individual initiative or personal achievement could change what it meant to be black in America. As they used to say, “What do they call a brotha with a PhD in Mississippi (or, for that matter, Missouri)?”
The black leadership model was not driven by personal ambition (though these were
talented, ambitious men and women), but by the need to change and uplift the condition of the entire black community. Black leadership understood that as long as we were oppressed as a group, the American notion of individual liberty was a fiction.
Even before emancipation, black leadership had a community-centric focus.
Fredrick Douglass and Sojourner Truth escaped slavery, yet risked their lives and freedom in the struggle to abolish slavery. Black scholars like DuBois, Frazier and Woodson devoted their lives to the serious intellectual study of black life. The artist and writers of the Harlem Renaissance were singularly focused upon the legitimacy of a black aesthetic. The honor roll of black patriots who pledged and risked their lives, their fortune and their scared honor on behalf of our struggle is too long to note.
While there were serious disagreements, even fissures, among black leadership on tactics and strategy, for 100 years there was never any argument about the mission. Even through the 1960s into the mid-1980s, the raison d’être of black leadership continued to be the protection and advancement of the black community.
It’s why in 2018 we still have this instinct, that we as a community can get behind a common agenda to advance our collective interests. But something has changed. The questions are: What? And why?
To be continued ....
Mike Jones is a former senior staffer in St. Louis city and county government and current member of the Missouri State Board of Education and The St. Louis American editorial board. In 2016, he was awarded Best Serious Columnist for all of the state’s large weeklies by the Missouri Press Association.
Dismantling the Divide
County should criminalize discrimination against Section 8
By Jane E. Oliphant
For The St. Louis American
The St. Louis region has a modest housing desegregation program, but politicians and area residents need to offer their support for the program to make a meaningful impact on our region. The Mobility Connection program operates between the city and the county housing authorities to assist families with Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) find housing in High Opportunity Areas. In St. Louis, 95 percent of families with vouchers are black, and the majority of High Opportunity Areas (with lowpoverty and little subsidized housing) are predominately White.
Mobility Connection began as a pilot program in response to the social problems highlighted by the Ferguson Commission report At Mobility Connection, we help families with vouchers find housing in low-poverty, low-crime neighborhoods that would be out of reach without a subsidy from the federal government. Families lucky enough to receive a voucher take it to the private rental market. If the family can find a willing landlord, the federal government pays a portion of the family’s rent.
Unfortunately, many families with vouchers both in the St. Louis region and nationwide end up living in the poorest and most segregated neighborhoods because so few property owners in safer, more prosperous neighborhoods accept vouchers, and because of the limited supply of moderately priced rental housing.
Federal tax dollars could offer a chance out of poverty for the 13,000 families with housing vouchers in St. Louis city and county; instead we subsidize poor families to live in poor areas. A recent study showed that when low-income children move to low-poverty neighborhoods at a young age,
they make higher incomes as adults and are more likely to attend college. Adults do better, too: they are less likely to become obese or diabetic and to experience depression. However, getting these families with housing vouchers into High Opportunity Areas is an uphill battle.
In a little over a year, Mobility Connection has helped nearly 30 families move to High Opportunity Areas, but in order to bring this program to scale, the region needs a larger supply of affordable housing and many more property owners willing to accept vouchers as a form of payment. Even with steady jobs, crimefree records and good credit scores, many of our families are denied even the opportunity to apply for affordable housing in St. Louis’s near suburbs – with good schools and affordable rent – because so many property owners refuse to accept vouchers.
In many of our neighborhoods and cities, it is both legal and common practice for property owners to discriminate against voucher holders. I commonly find “No Section 8” in the description section for available units across the region. Some cities and states have created laws to make this practice illegal.
A “Source of Income” Law would make it illegal to deny an applicant’s application due to their source of income. St. Louis city passed a Source of Income Law in 2015, but zero municipalities in St. Louis County have such a law. If municipalities like Brentwood, Chesterfield, Maryland Heights, Olivette, St. Louis County, or Webster Groves, each of
Letters to the editor
Protecting people from surprise medical bills
The passing of SB 982 on the last day of the 2018 Missouri Legislative Session is one small step for patients, but one giant leap for the MO Legislature. Protecting people from surprise medical bills is a bipartisan, commonsense issue that should have an easy time passing, yet anything is difficult when the interests of patients, providers, and insurance companies all are taken into consideration. Patients were put first. While I remain thankful to Sen. Wieland and all the legislators who worked to get this legislation passed, I am left remembering all the stories of Missourians who have received unfair surprise bills from their doctors’ offices, pharmacies, and labs. SB 982 only addresses surprise bills that come from the emergency room. But what about all the Missourians who have surprise bills from other places? Let’s celebrate this victory while also holding the MO Legislature accountable for addressing the full problem of surprise billing.
Jackie Schmitz Via email
Hold gun owners responsible
Concerning the school shooting in Texas, if it is true that the 17-year-old who did the shooting was using his father’s guns, why doesn’t his
which have an ample supply of affordable rental housing, were to enact Source of Income laws, more families could take full advantage of their housing vouchers. The housing voucher would not just provide the much-needed support to afford housing costs – it would be used as a tool for upward mobility and desegregation. Of course, only some areas in the St. Louis region even have affordable rental housing, or multi-family housing for that matter. Ladue zoning ordinances prohibit the development of any type of multi-family housing, and the property lot sizes beg for developers to build extravagant single-family homes that only the wealthiest among us can afford. Whether or not these policy choices were deliberately created to segregate our region, the fact is that they have and will continue to do so. The difference is that now, a new report developed by the For Sake of All and six area partners chronicles how housing policy contributes to the racial divide in the St. Louis region. Policy makers and residents cannot feign ignorance of the role we have played in creating segregated communities. It is up to the region’s leadership to decide if they have the political will to counter the social engineering of the past and to move forward to create more equitable and open communities for the future.
Do St. Louis leaders want to offer more families of color the opportunity to raise their children in the region’s most thriving communities? Only time will tell.
Jane E. Oliphant is the lead housing counselor for Ascend STL, Inc. and operates the Mobility Connection Program. This is the fifth in a series of commentaries devoted to the new report Segregation in St. Louis: Dismantling the Divide (forthesakeofall.org/ segregationinstlouis).
father bear some responsibility for not keeping his guns out of his son’s hands?
The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported: “Police say the man was suicidal and had taken his mother’s handgun. The mother told police that her son had left home in the 3300 block of West A Street ‘due to relationship problems with his girlfriend.’ After he left, the mother discovered her handgun was missing.”
Perhaps if the owners of guns are held responsible in some way for not keeping their guns out of the hands of someone who wants to use the guns to harm others, we will begin to see these shootings stop.
Linda Caravelli Florissant
Columnist Mike Jones
Photo by Jason Rosenbaum/St. Louis Public Radio
Stephen Conway
June 12 deadline for Excellence in Poverty Journalism
Awards nominations
ArchCity Defenders, a civil rights nonprofit law firm, invites the community to nominate reporters its second annual Excellence in Poverty Journalism Awards. The Awards are designed to recognize and honor in-depth reporting on race, class, and poverty, and to inspire more coverage.
The community is invited to nominate regional journalists who have published a digital/print or audio/visual piece between April 1, 2017 and May 1, 2018. Digital/ print may include newspaper, magazine, and/or online content; and, audio/visual may include podcast, TV, video, and/or radio. Nominations will be evaluated for their emphasis on centering individual experiences with poverty, classism, and racism within a systemic, historical analysis.
A three person panel will judge nominations. Finalists and honorable mentions will be publicly recognized at the Awards ceremony on Thursday, July 12 at ANEW Rooftop, 519 N. Grand Blvd., and is co-hosted by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri.
At this year’s Awards, ArchCity Defenders will honor Donald N. Suggs, publisher and executive editor of The St. Louis American, with the Lifetime Achievement Award in Poverty Journalism, for his commitment to publishing stories that raise critical awareness in the St. Louis region.
To nominate, send the reporter’s name, article headline, news outlet, and a link to the piece if it is available online to Communications@ archcitydefenders.org or tweet at @ArchCityDefense with #PovertyJournalismAwards. The nomination period is open through June 12.
Like daughter, like father
African Arts Festival at the World’s Fair Pavilion Monday, May 28. The three-day event took place in Forest Park over the Memorial Day weekend.
June 22 deadline for Student of Ethics Award
Better Business Bureau (BBB) St. Louis is accepting applicants for this year’s “Student of Ethics Award.” The award is a $2,500 college or trade school scholarship that recognizes high school students who demonstrate high ethics through leadership, community service, personal integrity and academic achievement.
Students are asked to submit an application that includes academic, leadership and service achievements as well as a 300-word essay and a letter of recommendation. A panel of independent judges will choose the winners, considering each student’s leadership qualities, academic performance, character and essay. Applications are due by June 22. For more information, visit www.bbb.org/ stlouis/student-of-ethics-awards (where you can apply online) or call Chris Thetford at (314) 645-3300.
Why I want to eliminate the office I am running for
By Dana Kelly-Franks For The St. Louis American
It’s time to build a plan that will eliminate waste, improve processes, and grow revenues with the goal of generating equitable outcomes for the people of St. Louis. I’m running for license collector with the intention of eliminating the office I hope to win. Here’s why.
I’m a mother of seven, financial professional, non-profit founder and lifelong St. Louisan. For too long, we’ve been distracted by politics when we should be focusing on people. Even now, as politicians and civically engaged citizens discuss the potential consolidation of our city’s Board of Alderman from 28 wards to 14, the primary narratives all revolve around the politician. “How much will they get paid? How much will they have to raise? How will this affect establishment politics?”
I’m not worried about politics, I’m worried about outcomes.
We should be talking about how to build a legislative body and system for constituent services and community engagement that works for everyone and guarantees representation in our segregated city where, now, it seems almost impossible. We should be asking questions and listening to the people who live here and experience the poverty and crime that plague our city. We should be brainstorming and working collaboratively to identify potential solutions that we can vet and improve together to come up with a plan that can actually affect outcomes.
This is why I’m running. That opportunity to build an equitable system isn’t limited to the restructuring of the Board of Aldermen. The separation of the License Collector, Recorder of Deeds and Collector of Revenue offices creates unnecessary operational expenses and complicates processes which prevents us from being able to increase revenues. It’s a problem. Our city has a budget crisis, a crime crisis, and a poverty crisis. We need resources for mental health services, public schools, police training, infrastructure improvements, refuse and so much more, but we can’t afford them because we choose to operate dysfunctionally. That our leadership is focused on anything other than solving these root problems is unacceptable.
The License Collector’s Office exists to generate revenue and to ensure that businesses operate safely and legally in the City of St. Louis. We are missing out on millions in revenue by letting thousands of disenfranchised independent contractors, consultants, startups and micro-businesses operate under the radar because they simply don’t know they need a license. It’s time to modernize communication and to implement policy and systems-level change to rebuild our city government so that it serves all of its people, not just a few. I’m running for license collector with the intention of doing whatever it takes to build a better system, and holding my colleagues in City Hall and the state Legislature accountable for doing the same. Every St. Louisan deserves access to opportunity and quality of life and I won’t stop until we get there, even if that means eliminating the office for which I’m running.
Dana Kelly-Franks is a candidate for license collector for the City of St. Louis.
Dana KellyFranks
Dylan Nolan 5, spent time at the arts and crafts booth under the watchful eye of her dad Kevin Nolan at this year’s
Photo by Wiley Price
Continued from A1
One Local Government Task Force and helped to organize the event.
#WearOrangeSTL was held in conjunction with National Gun Violence Awareness Day – and came two days after a town hall, co-presented by U.S. Rep. Wm. Lacy Clay, was filled to capacity.
Among the crowd Saturday were U.S. Senator Claire McCaskill, St. Louis Police Chief John Hayden, St. Louis Public Safety Director Jimmie Edwards, and Mayor Lyda Krewson. Eastern District of Missouri U.S. Attorney Jeffrey B. Jensen, who was an early partner of #WearOrangeSTL, was on-site as well. The march was molded after a similar initiative that took place in Radio One’s Columbus market. “St. Louis is one of the leading cities for homicides. I thought, ‘If anybody needs to be doing this, it’s St. Louis,’” Bailey said. “There are too many people who have been touched by this.” Bailey has been directly impacted by gun violence. Her brother Clyde Bailey Jr. was 19 when he was senselessly gunned down as a random
CONWAY
Continued from A1
Before becoming Krewson’s chief of staff, O’Connell served as the legal counsel to the Board of Aldermen since November 2015, and he was previously an associate attorney for Bryan Cave. He was also on the legal team that fought for the release of George Allen, a wrongfully convicted man who served 30 years in prison.
On November 27, Krewson appointed Conway city assessor with a salary of $125,000. He had previously
target. His assailant simply wanted to know what it was like to take a life.
“Hopefully people will be motivated by the events to come together to say, ‘Let’s work together and change this hopeless mindset,’” Bailey said. “And talk to these young people before they identify as someone capable of killing for any reason.”
The organizers put human faces on gun violence statistics. They also called on the community to work together in providing solutions for what has become a public health crisis in the African-American community.
“I was shot in the head three times,” Byron Mischeaux told the crowd as they prepared to march. “I walked out of the hospital in three days and opened my business back up in 13 months. To God be the glory.”
Like many in the crowd, Mischeaux also has lost family members to gun violence.
“I have a grandson that was murdered,” Mischeaux told the crowd. “There are three things that we need back in our neighborhoods – and that’s kindness, love and respect.”
James Clark, vice president of outreach for Better Family Life, issued a challenge to the group as they hurried to make the mile-plus march ahead of the rain.
served as 8th Ward alderman for 27 years, and he chaired the aldermanic Ways and Means Committee. Krewson believes Conway is a “strong candidate” for the position, Addo said.
“He understands how government works,” Addo said. While serving as alderman, Conway was the chief financial officer for Imo’s Pizza, a position he relinquished when he became city assessor. This experience taught him how to manage people, Addo said. Conway said that the chief of staff position came to his attention a few weeks ago, but he just got the call that Krewson would, in fact, appoint him on June 1.
“If you see a member of your family displaying at risk behavior, reach out for help,” Clark said. “Let’s not look at our nephews on Facebook holding guns and not say nothing. You are watching him take a slow walk to the penitentiary or the morgue.”
Clark said that when the sense of accountability is stabilized within the family, then it must be rippled into the community.
“We don’t have neighborhoods anymore. We have places where people live,” Clark said. “Now they are called ‘the hood.’ We’ve got to put the neighbor back in the ‘hood.”
“I’m just coming in to do some management and make sure everything is running the way it’s supposed to be running,” Conway told The American “She has got some incredible, competent people.”
2, walked down N. Grand Blvd. on Saturday, June 2, in the #WearOrange STL march against gun violence.
His comments were directed towards a young man on the sidewalk as the marchers passed. The young man was recording the marchers on his cell phone. “Tell your friends we need them too,” the man said before moving on to maintain his pace.
Soon after the crowd made it to the Boys and Girls Club of Greater St. Louis, rain came pouring down.
The programming originally scheduled for outdoors had to be moved into the gymnasium.
Resource booths for The Urban League’s Save Our Sons Program, Better Family Life and others set up shop while another group of speakers commended the marchers and called for action.
Clark then picked up toddler Karson Cole as he made his way down the portable stage outside the church and proceeded to join marchers.
“I’m holding this young man right here because he deserves to live in a neighborhood where he can go out and play,” Clark said.
Eastbound traffic was closed at Grand to make way for the marchers. There were no chants, but an African drum set the pace and marchers engaged with passers-by.
“We can do this, but we need your help,” a middle-aged man said pointing to his bright orange sign that read, “WE CAN END GUN VIOLENCE.”
Despite Krewson’s confidence in Conway, some of his former board colleagues do not see Conway as a good fit for the mayor’s office.
“The appointment of Stephen Conway once again demonstrates a commitment on the part of Mayor Krewson to
the same failed status quo policies of the last 30 years, rather than taking the opportunity to chart a new path toward a more fair and just St. Louis,” said 15th Ward Alderwoman Megan Ellyia Green.
“Staffing decisions say a lot about your values. Appointing an opponent of raising the minimum wage and other progressive reforms as the mayor’s chief of staff says a lot about how this mayor plans to govern. It’s a disappointing betrayal of the progressive values that the mayor sometimes pretends to hold.”
As alderman, Conway voted against Board Bill 203, which added pregnancy and reproductive health decisions (such as birth control, in vitro fertilization, and abortion) to the list of protected classes from discrimination in employment and housing in the City of St. Louis. Conway was also on the aldermanic team that battled for taxpayer funds to underwrite St. Louis’ most recent bid to lure yet another NFL franchise to the city, helping vote the measure out
“I’ve got over 250 friends that are dead,” said Darren Seals of the Sankofa Unity Center. “Now we are burying their sons. I’ve been shot 13 times and was out in the streets my whole life. It’s time to get our city back.”
State Rep. Bruce Franks Jr. said one of the keys to doing so is dismantling the systems that make certain communities conducive to violence and decay.
“Martin Luther King said it’s easy to condemn violence, but if we are not condemning the conditions that bring it, then we’re moving backwards,” Franks told the crowd.
of committee. He had been a proponent of tax incentives and sponsored Proposition P, the regressive sales-tax increase to boost police and firefighter salaries.
Going back further to 2000, Conway was one of only two aldermen who opposed a resolution calling on the U.S. Congress to establish a federal commission to study reparations for descendants of slaves. Conway told the PostDispatch that was tantamount to saying all white people were guilty of slavery, which he found “offensive.” He told the same reporter that he himself was in the victimized class as a descendent of Ireland, since the same British who drove the trans-Atlantic slave trade also oppressed the Irish.
The mayor’s office did not respond to the American’s request for comment on Green’s stance or on Conway’s voting record.
In response to Green, Conway told The American “I don’t have any policies or agendas personally. I’m not the person setting the policies for the city.”
Since becoming city assessor, he said that he has taken a break from commenting
State Senator Jamilah Nasheed said that a sense of pride in themselves and their communities is essential to curbing the crisis of gun violence.
“All the people here today have the power to instill a sense of pride in the young men and women walking down the street today,” Nasheed said. “All they see is hopelessness. All they see is vacant and abandoned buildings. You tell me how those individuals can have pride. So goes our neighborhoods and our blocks, then so goes our communities.” Nasheed shared details of her own life as a testament to what is possible when one has hope and pride. She grew up in the Darst Webbe Public Housing Project in what she described as “the epitome of poverty.” Her mother committed suicide by way of a gun. Her father survived the Vietnam War only to come home and have his life cut short by a drive-by shooting.
“I was motherless. I was fatherless. I was hopeless,” Nasheed said. “I didn’t believe in God – until people like Brother Anthony Shahid and the Shahid Youth Group came to the Darst Webbe and said, ‘Believe in yourself.’ Now I’m no longer a little girl that’s breaking laws, I’m a senator that’s making laws.”
on social media or engaging in politics.
“I still have political thoughts in my mind, but that aspect has dropped out of my brain,” Conway said.
When that aspect was still in his brain, Conway used Twitter to taunt Alderwoman Annie Rice, an independent who succeeded him in the 8th Ward, saying her participation in police accountability protests was just spending taxpayer dollars on police overtime. He has since deleted the tweet. O’Connell’s salary is $149,552. The position is listed at $151,814 in the upcoming budget that’s currently being reviewed, according to the city budget director. This would give Conway a bump in his wages, but he said he’s not doing it for the money.
“Lyda is a friend of mine,” he said. “I’ve known her for a long time at the Board of Aldermen. We were not on the same side on a lot of issues. She still gives me a hard time about it. I didn’t know that this was as a big deal to this many people. I’m just making sure the ship is running smoothly.”
Maria Johnson
Photo by Wiley Price
Stephen Conway
Photo by Jason Rosenbaum
RACISM
Continued from A1
and demeaning.’”
She met with Wentzville Superintendent Curtis Cain, who is black, about the racial comments and discrimination several times, Coleman said, but he remains silent during the meetings. The issue is never addressed, she said, and nothing has changed.
The Wentzville School District did not return The St. Louis American’s request for comment.
In April 2016, Coleman filed a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Civil Rights after one of her daughters was being harassed by a white male student. Since then, Coleman has been updating the federal investigator when new incidents occur.
This year, the investigator told Coleman that her case had merit, she said, but they were unable to move forward because of the new administration. Then a few months ago, her communication with the Office of Civil Rights completely ceased. It was right around the time that U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos ordered that a new policy manual for the Office of Civil Rights be put in place on March 5. The changes make it even more difficult for people of color and those with disabilities to challenge discrimination within schools, according to several advocacy organizations.
On May 31, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) filed a lawsuit – along with the National Federation of the Blind and the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates –against DeVos and the Office of Civil Rights (OCR) for the department’s rolling back of civil rights enforcement regulations.
The case was filed in
the U.S. District Court of Maryland. The organizations are fighting a new provision that states the Office of Civil Rights will dismiss complaints if they are “a continuation of a pattern of complaints previously filed” or if the complaint has been “filed for the first time against multiple recipients.” It will also be dismissed if the case places “unreasonable burden on the OCR’s resources.”
“Unlike the 2015 OCR Manual, dismissal is mandatory,” the organizations state in the suit.
There will also be no more appealing the office’s findings.
NAACP General Counsel Bradford M. Berry said in a public statement, “By summarily changing policies to allow for the dismissal of civil rights complaints and the ability of organizations to appeal their rulings, DeVos is basically saying protecting civil rights and the rights of those with disabilities no longer matter at the Department of Education.”
In an email to the American about the lawsuit, the Department of Education stated that they cannot comment on ongoing litigation.
When Coleman last spoke to the federal investigator who was looking into her daughter’s case, she was told that Trump’s administration was “handling racism differently,” Coleman said. The investigator also inferred that the Wentzville School District may have a wider-reaching problem with racism, said Adolphus Pruitt, president of the St. Louis City NAACP.
The St. Louis NAACP told Coleman to file a complaint with the federal office, as it has done with more than 60 other families who said they experienced racial discrimination within schools throughout the St. Louis region this past year. Most of those complaints have come from the western school districts, including Wentzville, Wright City and Warren County, Pruitt said. A few have been from St.
Louis County and St. Charles, as well, he added.
Because of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), students’ guardians have no way of finding out if the schools have disciplined students or staff members who have acted in a discriminatory manner. The Office of Civil Rights alone has the ability to request information and investigate discrimination cases, Pruitt said.
Coleman spoke of numerous incidents where her daughters (whom she did want named or photographed) were mistreated or suspended unreasonably.
Most recently, another girl slipped a vape pen into her daughter’s backpack because the girl was scared to get caught. Her daughter got suspended for having it, despite other students standing up for her daughter saying that they had heard the girl brag about having the pen.
About a month ago, she said, a group of white students splattered ketchup all over the cafeteria floor and then walked over to a table with black students and told them to clean it up. The principal came over and made all the students go to the office, despite the black students explaining the situation.
Prior to the new policies, the NAACP would wait until the Office of Civil Rights completed its investigation to work with the families and ensure that justice prevailed in these cases, Pruitt said. Without the office, he said, the NAACP has little power to fight for these families. The federal privacy laws make obtaining subpoenas difficult, he said.
“The person Ms. Coleman talked to told her off-therecord that our hands are tied,” Pruitt said. “Our response is, ‘While your hands are tied, ours are handcuffed.’ They are handcuffing the parents who have a right to know whether discipline and treatment is done in a nondiscriminatory manner. We can’t police them now.”
IDs
Continued from A1
St. Francis Xavier (College) Church started its Social Ministry Outreach Program (SFX Outreach Program) in 1993 to provide technical and financial support for obtaining birth certificates and Missouri state ID cards for residents in the St. Louis area.
The Missouri photo ID law that passed in 2016 and went into effect June 2017 requires voters in Missouri to possess a valid state ID. Because of that change, the State of Missouri has funding for people who don’t have IDs and need them to vote, yet can’t afford to get an ID. This could affect the outcomes of the midterm elections in Missouri.
“In addition to us covering the cost of IDs for people, we also are facilitating people accessing that state funding who are eligible, because a lot of people don’t know about the law because it’s not really out there,” Dragonette said.
“When we talk about it, people will get a lot of blank stares like, ‘I have no idea what this law is,’ so we’ll give people information on what the law is and then help them to get the free ID for voting if that’s something that they need.”
When guests attend SFX Outreach Program’s walk-in hours, they meet one-on-one with a volunteer who helps them to navigate the process of obtaining either a U.S. birth certificate (from any state), a Missouri state ID, or both documents. If guests’ needed documents require more identification than they have with them, the volunteer assists them in working through their options to prove identity.
Dragonette said the center sees between 3,250 to 3,500 people each year during its walk-in hours.
“We do see a lot of people, but we still are very intentional about seeing people one-onone, spending the time that
we need, hearing if someone just has a lot going on and just wants to share their story or has other resource needs,” Dragonette said. “We’ll work with them to figure out what their next steps are in addition to just assisting with the IDs and birth certificates.”
The vast majority of volunteers at the center are parishioners at the church. One of the newer volunteers, Mary White, joined the outreach program as part of her faith.
She taught for more than 20 years at Saint Louis University, a Jesuit institution with which the parish is connected, and recently retired in January.
“I’m interested in giving back to the community, but combining it also with my religious beliefs,” White said.
“The founder of the Jesuits talked about prayer being the basis for action, so this is a way that my prayer is reflected in
my action.” The majority of clients that the outreach center assists are African-American, homeless, or previously incarcerated. Lashuna Rancher is an AfricanAmerican woman who visited the center seeking paperwork to get her 13-year-old son registered in school, as well as assistance from the state and better housing.
“They’re giving me other resources to job searches, and they are also going to help me with some referrals for housing,” Rancher said. “I really love it. I really appreciate it, because without them I would still be in a loop of not knowing where to go.” St. Francis Xavier (College) Church is located at 3628 Lindell Blvd. For more information or to schedule a visit, contact Christine Dragonette at (314) 977-7309 or dragonettecm@slu.edu.
‘Finally,
Pagedale agrees to consent decree to stop frivolously and illegally ticketing residents
By Jessica Karins
For The St. Louis American
After two years of legal conflict over its harsh ticketing policy, the town of Pagedale has agreed to a consent decree that aims to put an end to its policy of making money by ticketing its residents for minor, and even nonexistent, offenses.
Pagedale has agreed to stop prosecuting many in-progress cases and change sections of its municipal code making “harmless conditions” for homeowners’ property illegal, among other conditions of ending a class-action lawsuit against the city.
A consent decree is a legal agreement between two parties in a lawsuit in which the defendant agrees to change its behavior without admitting liability. The plaintiffs in the case, three Pagedale residents, can ask the court to enforce the decree’s provisions if Pagedale does not comply.
The law firm Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner (BCLP), which was involved in the case on a pro bono basis, said in a press release that it was an important milestone in the fight to confine government authority to its appropriate functions.
The Institute for Justice, a libertarian civil liberties law firm that worked on the case, agreed.
“Judge Sippel’s approval finally brings the city of Pagedale’s criminal and civil justice system into compliance
my nightmare is over’
with the requirements of the Constitution,” Bill Maurer, a senior attorney at the Institute for Justice, said.
“The consent decree provides defendants with meaningful protections as they move through the city’s justice system. We appreciate the city’s willingness to come to the table and agree to implement these critical and sweeping reforms.”
Pagedale, a small town in
important source of revenue: the city’s second largest source of revenue, in fact, making up between 16 and 23 percent of its revenue.
In 2015, Missouri lawmakers voted to limit the amount of money municipalities could make from traffic tickets to 12.5 percent of operating revenue, based partially on Ferguson residents’ allegations that their city’s police were making money by
n “Judge Sippel’s approval finally brings the city of Pagedale’s criminal and civil justice system into compliance with the requirements of the Constitution.”
– Bill Maurer, Institute for Justice
North County, has around 3000 residents. However, the city of Pagedale ticketed 18,678 different people in the period between January 2010 and October 2016. It issued a total of 32,229 tickets. This resulted in a significant number of contested tickets as well. The city’s municipal court, which meets only twice a month, heard an average of 241 cases per night it operated in 2013.
In Pagedale, where many residents live under the poverty line, ticketing became an
disproportionately ticketing black residents. Major parts of that law were struck down by a higher court in 2016.
However, even when that bill was in full effect, it did not slow down Pagedale. After the law was passed, the number of tickets Pagedale issued for housing violations instead sharply increased. Eventually, 39 percent of the town’s adult residents had received a housing ticket.
“Pagedale residents could be – and were – ticketed for such
things as not having curtains on their basement windows, having mismatched blinds, having more than three people at a barbecue, and having a basketball hoop in the front of their house,” the Institute for Justice said in a press release.
“The city even prosecuted residents for conditions that were not forbidden by the municipal code, like having a crack in one’s driveway or an untreated fence.”
Many residents did not know they had been ticketed for something that was not illegal, because they were not told what they had been ticketed for at all. This often led to their being caught in a cycle of debt to the city for infractions they did not understand, or which were not even actually illegal, the Institute for Justice said.
In 2015, three Pagedale residents filed a class-action lawsuit on behalf of themselves and others affected by the town’s draconian ticketing practices. After battling in court for two years, the parties have agreed to a consent decree and it has been approved by federal judge Rodney W. Sippel.
Provisions of the consent decree including dropping all pending cases unless there is a good reason to continue prosecution; eliminating several fines, fees and laws in its municipal code that punish impoverished residents and criminalize harmless housing conditions; no longer issuing tickets for infractions that are not actually in the municipal code; and providing information to residents on why they are being ticketed.
“Finally, my nightmare is over,” said Pagedale resident Valarie Whitner, one of the three residents to file the suit.
“Every morning I woke up worried that I’d get another ticket. Now I can sleep easy and get on with my life.” The full consent decree can be read at https://tinyurl.com/ y8alfeeh.
Lambert janitors oppose vendor awarded contract; E&A to decide on June 13
By Ashley Henderson
For The St. Louis American
Our elected leaders have been debating the long-term future of St. Louis Lambert International Airport. But there’s an issue right now that threatens the integrity of our airport.
I’ve worked at St. Louis Lambert International Airport for nearly two years. I take pride in the work I do. I like meeting the passengers who travel through our airport, and I enjoy helping keep our airport clean. But my job, and the reputation of our world-class airport, is at stake. Against the advice of janitors, on May 2 the Lambert Airport Commission voted to award the $13.5 million contract to ATALIAN Global Services and local affiliate Centaur Building Services.
Centaur faced a troubling finding for racial discrimination that makes me concerned about the company cleaning at our airport. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) found “reasonable cause to believe” the company fired an employee, a black woman, due to her race.
And the EEOC isn’t the only federal agency Centaur has faced scrutiny from. After complaints were filed with the U.S. Department of Labor against Centaur, the agency found 10 violations of federal wage and hour laws. Local courts have also found Centaur violated Missouri’s wage and hour laws.
Just last year, a St. Louis judge ordered Centaur to pay a janitor more than $500 in lost wages as well as legal costs. As a Lambert janitor, I’m scared. I’m worried that this
company would not value my work because of who I am, or that I wouldn’t be paid properly for my work. My family relies on me to support them. As a St. Louis taxpayer, I’m frustrated our airport would consider awarding $13.5 million to a company with this kind of irresponsible record. This contract heads to the Board of Estimate and Apportionment for approval on June 13. The working people of Lambert hope elected leaders recognize this for what it is: a bad deal for our entire city.
Discrimination has no place at our airport. Wage theft has no place at our airport. Do we really want problems like these at Lambert, the first place people experience when they visit St. Louis? That’s not what St. Louis represents to me or my coworkers. It’s not what our airport should represent to our region.
Lambert is moving forward. Passenger traffic is up. Approving this bad deal with an irresponsible contractor would push our airport backwards. Lambert must be a place where working people and passengers, whether white, black or brown, feel respected and valued. If those are the values we strive for as a city, they must be reflected at our airport. While St. Louis leaders debate long-term plans for our airport, they should listen to the working people who keep it running.
We’re speaking up: Respect us, respect our passengers, and reject this contract. The people of St. Louis deserve better.
Ashley Henderson lives in St. Louis and works as a janitor at St. Louis Lambert International Airport. She is a member of SEIU Local 1.
Response from St. Louis Lambert International Airport:
The concerns raised in Ashley Henderson’s op-ed, specifically the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission complaint and the National Labor Relations Board complaint regarding Centaur Building Services, Inc. - a locally, wholly owned, subsidiary of the ATALIAN Global Services Inc. - were known and reviewed by airport staff, including ATALIAN’s written explanations, prior to its making its recommendation to the Airport Commission to award the Terminal 1and Terminal 2 Cleaning Services Agreement to ATALIAN.
The Airport Commission, at its May 2, 2018 meeting - after being briefed by airport staff and after questioning of officers of ATALIAN regarding the EEOC complaint and the NLRB complaint, and assurance from airport staff that the city’s living wage laws will be strictly enforced - concurred with the airport staff’s recommendation to award the agreement to ATALIAN, a responsive and qualified bidder, that submitted the lowest and best bid in accordance with the solicitation for bids.
18 years of racial profiling
Midyear in 2000, I got a call asking me to serve on thenAttorney General Jay Nixon’s Racial Profiling Task Force. Oh no, not me. The idea of regularly traveling to Jefferson City to rub shoulders with white, rural sheriffs and smalltown police chiefs was not the least bit appealing. I was going to take a pass until the persuasive argument of safeguarding a community victory was laid on me. I was part of a community coalition that got Missouri’s first racial profiling bill passed in 2000. A community watchdog was needed to make sure the law got off on the right foot. I conceded to joining the task force.
The main goal of the task force was to ensure all police departments submitted data on their vehicle stops along with the driver’s race. Surprisingly, police departments across that state submitted their required data that first year.
The first report had black motorists being stopped 30 percent more than their white counterparts and 70 percent more likely to be searched. That was 2001.
Eighteen years later, the 2018 report, released on June 1, showed that black drivers were stopped at a rate 85 percent greater than white drivers.
The searches of black drivers were less likely to result in the discovery of contraband than the searches of whites.
For almost two decades, the racially charged data (which some believe is under-reported) has worsened with no progress in sight. Here’s the real kicker that gets lost in the chatter: Built into law so that there would be consequences, the governor can withhold state funding from agencies that don’t comply with the law.
If my math is correct, some of these departments with consistently racist data should be operating with diminished budgets right about now.
The original law was designed to do basic two things. One was to prove racial profiling had an empirical existence, that it was not based on the vivid imagination of paranoid black drivers. Two, it was to prompt departments to develop remedies where there was proven racial bias and profiling. It’s clear that in 2018 we have over-proof of the problem and
Guest Columnist Ashley Henderson
Columnist Jamala Rogers
Urban League Guild hosts Health Fair
Plan to find the van
Mobile van to offer free health screenings at four MetroLink stops
By Sandra Jordan Of The St.
Louis American
MetroLink commuters can now receive free health screenings at four stops in the city of St. Louis. Betty Jean Kerr People’s Health Centers will bring its mobile health van to four locations to provide free blood pressure screenings and other health assessments for transit riders and nearby residents on Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., alternating locations each week during the month. The first set of screenings took place Tuesday, June 5, when the van was at the
n “We are interested in putting services where the people area. That is true public health,” said Melba Moore, director of the St. Louis Department of Health.
Forest Park-DeBaliviere Transit Center, where it will be on the first Tuesday of the month. On June 12, and on the second
Tuesday of each month, the van will be at the Grand MetroLink Station. On June 19, and on the third Tuesday of each month, health screenings will take place at the Civic Center Transit Center. On June 26, and on the fourth Tuesday of each month, it will be at the Riverview Transit Center. During months when there is a fifth Tuesday, the van will go to the Civic Center Transit Center.
There are areas of the St. Louis region with populations who have lower access to health care resources and experience
See VAN, A11
‘If you target kids, then we’re going to target you’
FDA cracks down on nicotine products branded and marketed to appeal to youth
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently issued four new warning letters to manufacturers and retailers for selling e-liquids used in e-cigarettes with labeling and/or advertising that cause them to resemble kid-friendly food products, such as cereal, soda and pancakes. One of the companies receiving a warning letter was also cited for illegally selling the product to a
minor. The warning letters follow actions taken last week by the FDA and the Federal Trade Commission against 13 other makers and sellers of nicotine-containing e-liquids that look like juice boxes, candy or cookies.
“Companies putting children at risk or enticing youth use are on notice. If you target kids, then we’re going to target you,” said FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb, M.D.
“The actions we’ve taken over the last
several weeks under our new Youth Tobacco Prevention Plan are just the opening salvo in what’s going to be a sustained campaign to address all aspects of youth access and appeal of tobacco products, and in particular, e-cigarettes.”
The products outlined in the new warning letters, and being sold through multiple online retailers, include: “Frank ‘N Vape,”
See FDA, A11
Steps women can take to lower the risks of maternal deaths
By Dr. Ravi Johar For The St. Louis American
The anticipation of bringing a new bundle of joy into the world – and all that comes with it – can be both exciting and stressful for moms-to-be. But if you are an expectant black mother, there is much more at stake, according to a recent study. Having a baby comes with several risk factors, and too many black moms die during and shortly after childbirth.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that, on average, black mothers in the United States die at a rate that is three- to four-times that of white mothers – one of the widest, most striking, disparities in women’s health. According to America’s Health Ranking’s 2018 Health of Women and Children Report, this is particularly acute in Missouri, with more than 65 deaths per 100,000 live births among black moms, compared to 28 for white moms. Nationally, there are 20 deaths per 100,000 births for all mothers. There are a variety of issues that factor into these statistics. Some of these include rising rates of chronic disease such as obesity, hypertension and cardiovascular disease among minority groups. Others are broader, systemic issues. According to healthypeople.gov, factors such as access to health care and early intervention programs, educational, employment, economic opportunities, social support, and availability of resources to meet essential needs influence outcomes. Additionally, inequities in the level of medical care and gaps in patient safety for expectant black mothers play a role.
Given these disparities, we encourage expectant mothers to take a number of actions to curtail some of the risks that come with pregnancy and childbirth, including:
n If you are an expectant black mother, there is much more at stake, according to a recent study.
Black mothers in the United States die at a rate that is three- to four-times that of white mothers.
Preconception health: Healthy pregnancies begin before conception. Treatment of chronic illnesses – particularly cardiovascular diseases – before getting pregnant will ultimately result in fewer complications.
Expectant mothers should talk to their doctor about their general medical history (including their family’s), any current health issues, their diet and exercise routine, pregnancy history and any mental health concerns.
Early and consistent prenatal care: Prenatal care is associated with healthy pregnancies, especially care during the first trimester. If you know you are pregnant or think you might be, call your doctor to schedule a visit. According to womenshealth. gov, babies of mothers who do not get prenatal care are three-times more likely to have a low birth weight and five-times more likely to die than those born to mothers who do get care.
Proper nutrition: A balanced diet, taking prenatal vitamins and maintaining a healthy weight during pregnancy can improve outcomes for both mother and baby.
Affinia Health Care’s David Bradley spoke with Charlotta Hayles during the Urban League Guild’s Health Fair Saturday, May 19 at the O’Fallon Rec Center.
Dr. Ravi Johar
Photo by Wiley Price
FDA
Continued from A10
which resembles Franken Berry cereal; “Chill Purple Grape,” which resembles a grape soda can; and “Unicorn Cakes,” which includes images and cartoons of pancakes, a strawberry beverage and unicorns eating pancakes, similar to graphics and images from the “My Little Pony” television and toy franchise.
The warning letters stem from investigations that began in late 2017 of tobacco product labeling and advertising that cause the tobacco products to imitate food products, particularly those that are marketed toward and/ or appealing to children. The products are considered misbranded in violation of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act because their labeling and/or advertising imitating kid-friendly foods is misleading. The FDA has requested responses from each of the companies within 15 working days on how they intend to address the agency’s concerns. Failure to correct violations may result in further action such as seizure or injunction. In addition, misbranded or adulterated products imported into the United States are subject to detention and refusal of admission.
centers and visits to emergency rooms related to e-liquid poisoning and other liquid nicotine exposure by children younger than six, according to a recent analysis of National Poison Data System data. Severe harm can occur in small children from exposure to or ingestion of e-liquids, including death from cardiac arrest, as well as seizure, coma and respiratory arrest.
n “Companies putting children at risk or enticing youth use are on notice. If you target kids, then we’re going to target you.”
– FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb,
M.D.
The continuing rise in popularity of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) such as e-cigarettes has coincided with an increase in calls to poison control
Additionally, more than 2 million middle and high school students were current users of e-cigarettes and other ENDS in 2016, with flavor availability being one of the top reasons for use. This use by children and teens is especially concerning to the FDA because of evidence that youth exposure to nicotine affects the developing brain and may rewire it to be more susceptible to nicotine addiction in the future.
That’s why combating youth use of nicotinecontaining products is a core priority and the guiding principle behind the FDA’s Youth Tobacco Prevention Plan. In April, for example, the agency conducted a nationwide blitz of brick-and-mortar and online retailers, and issued warning letters to businesses that sold JUUL brand products to minors. The agency also sent a letter to JUUL Labs requiring the company to submit important documents to better understand the reportedly high rates of youth use and the particular youth appeal of these products.
As part of the FDA’s comprehensive plan on nicotine and tobacco regulation announced last summer, the
by Wiley Price
Teaching the breast self-exam
agency is also exploring clear and meaningful measures to make tobacco products less toxic, appealing and addictive with an intense focus on youth. This could include measures on flavors/designs that appeal to youth, child-resistant packaging and product labeling to prevent
greater barriers associated with cost of care, according to research. This not only has a negative effect on their health, but it also leads to more emergency room admissions, more hospital admissions for preventable conditions, and overall higher health care costs.
“About a year ago, we conducted a community health needs assessment with our regional partners, and one of the five strategy areas that was outlined was access to health care,” said Melba Moore, director of the St. Louis Department of Health. “We are interested in putting services where the people area. That is true public health.”
The health screenings in the city are a partnership between People’s, Bi-State Development, Metro Transit and the St. Louis Department of Health.
John Nations, Bi-State Development president and chief executive officer, said its partners “are committed to improving access to health care, and they see the amazing potential of connecting health care to public transit to reach thousands of Metro riders and residents in underserved communities.”
Health screenings on the People’s mobile van are free, with no insurance, payment or copay required and no appointment necessary. In
JOHAR
Continued from A10
accidental child exposure to liquid nicotine. Additionally, the agency plans to explore additional restrictions on the sale and promotion of ENDS to further reduce youth exposure and access to these products.
The FDA has also expanded “The Real Cost” public
addition to providing blood pressure screenings and other health needs assessments, adults will get assistance in applying for health insurance and follow-up care options at community health centers in the area.
Dwayne Butler, president and CEO of People’s, said those needing follow-up care will be directed to a site closest to their address.
“Abnormal screenings will be immediately discussed with the patient, and the patient will be encouraged to follow-up with their doctor or make an immediate appointment at one of our BJK People’s sites,”
ask
Butler said.
“This new program is strengthening our ability to bring healthcare to residents of the St. Louis community who are medically uninsured,” said Vickie Wade, executive vice president of Clinical Services with People’s. “Our goal is to educate, support and increase awareness of quality healthcare and social services.”
At the kickoff of the program on May 31, St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson said, “Addressing minor health conditions before they turn into major issues improves the quality of life for residents as well as minimizes disruptions
to our lives and helps keep down the costs of health care for everyone.”
St. Louis Department of Health said it will provide a nurse, when needed, to conduct blood pressure screenings and will have a representative to offer program literature and educational materials on sexually transmitted infections/ HIV, safe sex kits, asthma, lead, smoking cessation and tuberculosis at each location and to make community/health care provider referrals.
This is a pilot program that organizers will monitor to gauge demand for health services.
Guild’s annual Health Fair Saturday, May 19 at the
education campaign with messages focused on preventing youth use of e-cigarettes and will launch a full-scale campaign this fall.
“These tactics also hurt the e-cigarette industry and those seeking to quit smoking,” Dr. Gottlieb said. “Efforts to encourage the innovation of novel and potentially less harmful products such as e-cigarettes for currently addicted adult smokers will be severely undermined if bad actors put youth at risk in this fashion.”
Policies allow consumers to be overcharged for medicine
Generic medicines can be less expensive than co-pays, making them cheaper to buy outright than with insurance – but your pharmacist may be banned from telling you that.
The cost difference doesn’t go to the pharmacist, it doesn’t go to the drug manufacturer, it goes to the middleman: the drug benefit manager. That payback is called a clawback. Clawbacks can range from $2 to $30 a prescription, boosting profits while unfairly charging consumers.
n “Policies that prohibit a pharmacist from communicating pricing information to a patient should have no place in our state.”
– Cara Spencer, Consumers Council of Missouri
Many states are moving to block the gag clauses that prohibit pharmacists from telling customers that they could save money by paying cash rather than using their health insurance. Missouri could be the next state to join that list. HB 1542 sponsored by state Representative Lynn Morris (R-Nixa), prohibits clawbacks and eliminates gag clauses in Missouri. This bill will allow your pharmacist to tell you the least expensive way to pay for your drugs and will save Missourians money.
“With the costs of drugs skyrocketing in this country, consumers should be enabled to make informed decisions,” said Cara Spencer of the Consumers Council of Missouri. “Policies that prohibit a pharmacist from communicating pricing information to a patient should have no place in our state. HB 1542 deserves to be heard.”
moms and new parents for staying on top of their prenatal and well-baby
care. Each year, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan covers 160,000 pregnancies and births nationally. We recognize that early identification and engagement of pregnant mothers, enhanced support for care providers, an enriched health care experience, and
access to community partners who can offer additional resources are keys to healthy pregnancies and healthy babies. For more information about maternal health and mortality among expectant and new moms in Missouri and nationwide, visit the America’s Health Rankings 2018 Health of Women and Children Report from United Health Foundation at https:// tinyurl.com/y9l7krno. Dr. Ravi Johar is chief medical officer at UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Missouri.
Photo
Arthella Jefferson and Lillie Allen with the Witness Project taught Rosalyn McKissick and Roylene Taylor how to check for lumps on their breasts during the Urban League
O’Fallon Rec Center.
Dr. Tifani Sanford, a community health worker, and Rosalyn Fulton, outreach coordinator, are the Betty Jean Kerr People’s Health Centers staff who will be providing free health services on People’s Mobile Health Van at rotating MetroLink stops from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Tuesday.
Photo courtesy of Betty Jean Kerr People’s Health Centers
Greitens is gone, but Auditor Galloway is on his trail
If there is one true legacy left by former Governor Eric Greitens – despite the depravity of events that allegedly occurred in his basement, where his hairdresser testified under oath that he blocked the door and coerced her into unwanted sexual activity as she was crying uncontrollably “like a wounded little animal on the ground” – it will not be wanton brutality with women. It will be the secrecy that pervaded his campaign and every aspect of his governance.
“The most important thing is that there is transparency around the money,” Greitens told St. Louis Public Radio in an interview during his 2016 campaign. “We’ve already seen other candidates set up these secretive super PACs where they don’t take any responsibility for what they’re funding ... because that’s how the game has always been played. [But] I’ve been very proud to tell people, ‘I’m stepping forward, and you can see every single one of our donors.’”
That, of course, was a baldfaced lie. As we now know, from the very beginning of his campaign, Greitens mocked the entire notion of transparency.
One of his earliest campaign staffers, Michael Hafner, repeatedly testified under oath that Greitens planned schemes to obscure the identities of donors – even allegedly courting foreign donors, a violation of federal law –to give to shell companies through which donations to his campaign were funneled. As one political scientist noted, “When drug dealers do this, we call it money laundering.”
But that wasn’t all. It was only the beginning.
Next, Greitens came up with the deviously named LG PAC, an allegedly “independent” committee that spent millions of secret money to eviscerate
one of his primary opponents. Greitens denied any knowledge of LG PAC’s activities even though a year later the world would learn that it shared a top strategist with Greitens’ own campaign. He pulled similar stunts with SEALs for Truth, another purportedly independent committee that ended up giving nearly $2 million to Greitens – money that it received from a nebulous, Ohio-based nonprofit that – you guessed it! –was not required to disclose its donors.
Should anyone, then, have been surprised when Greitens refused to release his tax returns? Refused to disclose how much donors gave to his inaugural celebration? Refused to say who was donating millions to the dark money committee he started while governor, A New Missouri? Refused to disclose communications he had with top aides about public business, thanks to a new textmessaging app (Confide) that causes messages to instantly disappear once they are read? Even refused to say who was donating to the legal fund that paid for ten of the state’s highest-priced lawyers? And this is where State Auditor Nicole Galloway comes in.
The Missouri House of Representatives’ Special Investigative Committee on Oversight has spent most of 2018 trying to lift the veil on Greitens’ secrecy, with varying degrees of success. It’s likely that the committee’s effort to force Greitens to produce all communications between Greitens’ traditional campaign committee and A New Missouri, his so-called dark money committee which hides the identities of all of its donors, was the straw that broke Greitens’ back and led him to resign. Apparently, after five months of stonewalling,
After Eric Greitens resigned as Missouri governor, state Auditor Nicole Galloway encouraged the Missouri Legislature to both continue its investigation into Greitens’ dark money campaign and to pass legislation preventing future dark money campaigns. She also added yet another investigation of Greitens’ finances in announcing an audit of both Greitens’ office and the lieutenant governor’s office of now-Governor Mike Parson.
obfuscation, and attempts at diversion and the seemingly bottomless pit of family humiliation, Greitens showed that he is more dedicated to protecting his dark money mega-donors than protecting his family.
And unlike Mayor Lyda Krewson, who obsequiously thanked the governor “for his service” in a tone-deaf tweet, Galloway responded appropriately to his resignation by offering the political equivalent of “Don’t let the door hit you on the way out.”
“I encourage the legislature to move forward with its investigation into coordination between darkmoney organizations and state entities,” Galloway wrote in an open letter last week. She also exhorted the Legislature to combat the influence of dark money on state government by passing legislation to eliminate secret donations to and from
opposing impeachment and fighting to the bitter end.
As renowned U.S. Supreme Court Justice Louis Brandeis once said, “Sunlight is said to be the best of disinfectants; electric light the most efficient policeman.” Missouri is already the nation’s only state that allows both unlimited lobbying gifts and unlimited campaign contributions; the very least we can do is shine a light on the source of that money.
Jeffrey Boyd as grand inquisitor
the waste of taxpayer dollars.” Meanwhile, Krewson still has not responded to an offer Jones made earlier this year to transfer $6 million in her office’s funds to the city’s Reserve Fund, which would bolster the city’s long-term financial health and help stop the bleeding from its credit rating. Instead, we have Boyd trying to claw $5.8 million, one city employee’s salary at a time, to dump into the hole in the city that is the General Revenue Fund. Boyd and Jones were scheduled to meet again on Wednesday, June 6 to negotiate a grand bargain. Stay tuned
501(c)(4) political nonprofits. She also added yet another investigation of Greitens’ finances in announcing an audit of both Greitens’ office and the lieutenant governor’s office of now-Governor Mike Parson. Given the tenacity of Galloway and staff, Greitens’ likely mismanagement of the governor’s office will soon be laid bare.
While some in both parties bow to the pressure of some mega-donors who would rather not be exposed – perhaps because those donors received policy or other benefits during Greitens’ 17-month tenure – the intrepid Galloway continues her battle to shine a light on those who have been attempting to influence our government in the dark of the night. It is ironic that one of the men who may end up as her general election opponent, state Rep. Paul Curtman, was one of the Greitens dead-enders, staunchly
Alderman Jeffrey Boyd –and his allies in the fight to loot the St. Louis treasurer’s office for the city’s General Revenue Fund, Mayor Lyda Krewson and her new chief of staff Stephen Conway – has resorted to everything except armed robbery to get Tishaura O. Jones to cough up her parking revenues. The latest was a Streets, Traffic and Refuse Committee hearing held on Tuesday, June 5, chaired by Boyd in the guise of a grand inquisitor. Boyd moved his attack on Jones – which was so useful to Krewson in her narrow defeat of Jones – to trying to publicly shame her staff.
“Boyd says level of executive staff under the city treasurer is a waste of taxpayer dollars. He wants to eliminate the chief of staff, deputy chief of staff, communications director and pr assistant in Jones’ office,” a Post-Dispatch reporter tweeted. (To that list, add director of Administrative Services.)
Chelsea Merta, an attorney and former candidate for alderwoman, retorted, “I’m just going to go ahead & say that, with all the time & energy that Jeff Boyd puts into hating on @Tishaura and not into serving his constituents through the Board of Aldermen, maybe he’s
Blue tsunami in MO State Senate 17
Who expected a Democrat to win a state Senate seat by a 20-point margin in Missouri’s 17th Senate District? In his wildest dreams, state party Chair Stephen Webber could not have expected for Lauren Arthur to beat Republican Kevin Corlew 59.6 percent to 40.3 percent to become the
Families that repair together shine together
Qyk Step Shoe Repair Shop and Shining Parlor shine gets better with time in a dying art
By Ashley Jones
For The St. Louis American
Qyk Step Shoe Repair is a family-owned repair and shining parlor that originated on Redmond Road in 2004 and now is as the only full-service shoe repair/shine parlor in North County. The shop is run by the owner Keith Cooper and his mother Sharon Cooper, whom most people just call “Mom.”
“They call me ‘Mama Bear,’ and everybody calls me ‘Mom,’” Sharon said. “Even customers come in here saying it. A white man came in
By Laurie Waters Of the YWCA
and said, ‘Can I call you ‘Mom’ too?’ and I said ‘Yeah.’ It’s a nice, friendly place. I enjoy it.”
Sharon became the shop’s first AfricanAmerican shoe repair woman when she joined the team in 2011.
“Having my mom with me is a wonderful godsend,” Keith said. “It’s great because, at 76 years old, she does everything. She’s a one-woman band. She does the heel plates, the sewing, the dying, she runs my register.”
Keith encouraged Sharon to come into the shop after her husband, Keith’s father, was put into a nursing home in 2005 with Alzheimer’s disease.
“When Kenneth went into the nursing home I just kept coming up here,” Sharon said. “Keith said, ‘You need to come up here, Mom, you ain’t got nothing to do.’ And I’m still here. I keep telling him I’m going to quit. Say I’m going home, but I ain’t going home. I ain’t got nothing to do.”
Keith got into the business starting off as just a shoeshiner. His mentor, James Bush, and other historic shoe shops were factors that helped
Making a business plan to address youth violence
Gateway STEM students are taught social enterprise in YWCA Entrepreneurship competition
Just as we have seen young people across the nation take to the streets and innovate in order to address problems in their communities, some St. Louis teens are tackling the issue of youth violence. Working in conjunction with several nonprofit groups, Gateway STEM High School students Amari Taylor, Angel Stevenson, JaQuita White, Karla Medina, and Mia Noldon looked at community issues and were charged with creating a social enterprise business plan to address the issue of their choice. They decided to create a social enterprise business plan addressing youth violence. The project arose as an extension of the YWCA Entrepreneurship competition, in which selected top-scoring students participate in an internship where they use their entrepreneurial skills to address social issues. The fourmonth internship was held at the University
See VIOLENCE, B2
Jami S. Vault was promoted to English Language Arts (ELA) Curriculum coordinator in the Hazelwood School District. She will be responsible for developing and executing the ELA curriculum strategies for more than 18,000 students in grades k-12. She currently serves as the ELA secondary curriculum coach for the district.
Kelvin McLemore participated in a rite of passage at the St. Louis Kappa League (KL) Beautillion and Awards Ceremony. The event was the culmination of his affiliation with the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, St. Louis Alumni Chapter’s Guide Right/Kappa League Program. KL is a mentoring group for young males in grades 6-12. He is a Cardinal Ritter College Preparatory High School graduate who will attend Lincoln University.
Mary “Fridah” K. Mubichi joined ARCHS as an evaluation and research specialist. In her new role, she will foster the use of data/evaluation within ARCHS to better tell ARCHS’ story of positively impacting the lives of thousands of St. Louis area families who are living in poverty and facing disparities and disadvantages. Most recently, she served as a research assistant at the University of Missouri-Columbia.
Imanté Griffin received a 2018 Carl Fricks Sportsmanship Scholarship from the St. Louis Sports Commission’s young professionals group, the Sports Commission Associates. The scholarship recognizes graduating high school seniors from the region who embody outstanding sportsmanship. A graduate of Cardinal Ritter College Prep High School, where he played football and baseball, he will continue his education at Mid-America Nazarene University.
Denise Johnson was appointed and recently sworn in as the city administrator for the City of Northwoods. She has been a certified municipal city clerk and finance officer for the past 19 years. She has an A.S. Degree in Administration of Justice and a B.S. Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Missouri-St. Louis and is an alumna of the Normandy School Collaborative.
Sanford Biggers received a 2018 American Academy of Arts and Letters Award, a $10,000 award “to honor exceptional accomplishment and encourage creative work.” Biggers will exhibit at the Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis from September 7 through December 30. His art encourages meaningful dialogue around history and trauma in America through the use of a dynamic range of media including painting, sculpture, film, and performance.
Jami S. Vault
Mary “Fridah” K. Mubichi
Sanford Biggers
Denise Johnson
Kelvin McLemore
Imante’ Griffin
Sharon Cooper works on a shoe at the Qyk Step Shoe Repair Shop and Shining Parlor in North County.
Photo by Wiley Price
Gateway STEM High School students Mia Noldon, JaQuita White and Angel Stevenson discuss their social enterprise business plan to address youth violence and social media.
SHOES
continued from page B1 further his family business.
“James has been a shoe cobbler for at least 50 years. He taught me everything I know.
I was a shoe shiner at first, and having opened my other shoeshine parlor on Redmond, he’s like ‘Son, it’s going to be hard to make that $500 rent on $5, that’s 100 pairs of shoes.’ He said, ‘Let me show you how to repair shoes and make it a lot easier,’” Keith said.
“So I went under Mr. James’ wing and through some of the old historic shoe shops; I gained a lot of knowledge from them. They helped pave the way for me.”
According to the HuffPost, shoe repair shops are hard to find and getting more rare. In 1968 there were 68,000 shops in the U.S., and that number has dwindled to a mere 7,000 nationwide. The leading causes are changes in the quality and costs of new shoes.
As the only shoe repair store in North County, Qyk Step Shoe Repair keeps its prices low.
n “My favorite part is looking at the customer’s face when they come in with a pair of shoes that they were about to throw away, and then I resurrect them.”
– Randall “R&B” Brown
“A lot of people can’t afford to buy new shoes,” Sharon said. “We don’t charge them nothing but a nominal fee. Some places like out in Clayton, they charge a lot of money. My people ain’t got all that kind of money. And me, I’m so soft-hearted, I say, ‘Well, $12.’”
One of the Coopers’ employees, Randall “R&B” Brown, started shining and doing repairs in 2012. “My favorite part is looking at the customer’s face when they come in with a pair of shoes that they were about to throw away, and then I resurrect them,” Brown said. When asked about his work environment, Brown replied, “Friendly and comfortable.”
“It’s the atmosphere that you can bring your family in,” said Brown. “You can bring
“I can’t imagine if there was one on every corner like it used to be in the ‘40s, ‘50s, and ‘60s, because shoes were made good and people fixed them,” Keith said. “Now, you break a heel, you might throw it away because you only paid $20 for it, so there is no use in putting $15 into fixing it.”
your kids in while you’re getting your shoes shined. It’s a safe environment. Being the only shoe repair and shine shop
in North County, we have to stand above. If you can keep it right here in the community, that’s the best thing to do.”
Saturdays. Call (314) 9214020.
St. Louis designated as ‘Talent Hub’ for commitment to eliminating educational disparities
American staff
St. Louis is one of seven communities across the country designated as Talent Hubs by the Lumina Foundation, in partnership with the Kresge Foundation.
Each Talent Hub focuses on raising the nation’s overall post-high school attainment level to 60 percent of workingage adults by 2025. Talent Hub cities are committed to
eliminating deep disparities in educational outcomes among African-Americans, Hispanics, and American Indians, who fare poorly in contrast with white and Asian students.
The St. Louis Talent Hub is a collaboration led by St. Louis Graduates, a network of K-12 and higher education, youth-serving non-profit organizations, business and philanthropy dedicated to transforming lives through
postsecondary education equity.
“Earning a college degree provides the surest path to economic and social mobility in our society, so we need to ensure that all students are being prepared for postsecondary opportunities regardless of their race or household income,” said Alan Byrd Jr., co-chair of St. Louis Graduates and vice provost for Enrollment Management at the
University of Missouri-St. Louis.
“Receiving the Talent Hub designation is validation that this work matters, and it is vital to the future of our region. St. Louis is not likely to reach the 60 percent goal for degree attainment without eliminating educational disparities for low-income students and students of color.”
The other new
communities designated as Talent Hubs are Corpus Christi, Texas; Detroit, Michigan; Elkhart County, Indiana; Las Vegas, Nevada; Mobile, Alabama; and Rio Grande Valley, Texas.
These cities, along with 17 others selected in 2017 earned this designation by meeting rigorous standards for creating environments that attract, retain, and cultivate talent, particularly
among today’s students, many of whom are people of color, the first in their families to go to college, and from lowincome households. Lumina Foundation is an independent, private foundation in Indianapolis with the mission of increasing Americans’ attainment of college degrees and other highquality credentials beyond high school.
No short-term fix for long-term problem
By Treasurer
Tishaura O. Jones
For
The St. Louis American
The City of St. Louis
Treasurer’s Office has been working on FY 2019 budgets since the beginning of 2018. The FY 2019 Parking Division budget was first presented to the Parking Commission in April. Since then, we have responded to numerous requests for information and have answered many questions about the budget.
On May 23, we were blindsided by a request from Alderman Jeffrey Boyd that asked for $5.8 million to be
VIOLENCE
continued from page B1
of Missouri-St. Louis’ EdCollabitat and facilitated by Ida Casey of YWCA’s Prevention and Education services.
The five students researched and analyzed the reasons for youth violence, particularly at the middle- and highschool levels. They attended conferences on youth violence at UMSL, Webster University and Washington University, and attended the Youth Violence and Prevention meeting held by the United Way of Greater St. Louis’s Ready By 21 Safe and Thriving St. Louis initiative. They surveyed students and narrowed down the top three violence initiators: social media, mental and emotional needs of youth, and parental involvement.
All five students had either experienced violence themselves or knew of fellow students who had been impacted. They lost a class member to gun violence during their project, which began in
transferred from the Parking Division reserves to the City of St. Louis general revenue fund. That was the first time we’ve heard this request from Alderman Boyd, despite all of his requests for information and additional questions about this budget. This is a short-term fix for a long-term problem. The city has a revenue problem, and it can’t be solved by using reserves.
While we sympathize with the city’s position, we are committed to long-term financial health, not short-term, temporary solutions.
An overview of the FY 2019 Parking Division budget can be found at https://tinyurl.com/ ydchsua.
Recently, Moody’s downgraded the City of St. Louis’ credit rating for the third time in two years. This is in addition to the fourth credit action in four years. One of the primary reasons given was the city’s weakened reserve position. It is our belief that it is better financially to shore up the city’s reserve funds, which would help the city over a longer term, than it is to transfer money into the general reserve fund.
January and concluded in late April. The students identified a three-pronged approach for schools to combat youth violence. First, implement mentoring and counseling opportunities for students to learn about how negative messages on social media can impact social behaviors beyond
n “We must encourage and guide all youth, not just those who receive media exposure, in being advocates for themselves. Their voices must be heard and taken seriously.”
– YWCA’s Ida Casey
social media and how to address it. Second, partner with other community and youth organizations on addressing social media violence among youth. Finally, monitor potential negative social media messages and their impact, such as cyberbullying, fights, violent messages, and suicide.
The teens also came up with action items for their enterprise, like starting a Violence Prevention Club at selected schools focusing on social media, offering a professional development program for teachers and counselors, helping the school districts devise a safety plan utilizing intervention before suspensions, and informing and involving parents in these efforts. Ultimately, the students would like to have a series of youth cafes to continue their work.
“We have seen the impact that the voices of our youth can have on social issues,” said YWCA’s Ida Casey. “We must continue to encourage and guide all youth, not just those who receive media exposure, in being advocates for themselves. Their voices must be heard and taken seriously.” In addition to Casey, Gateway STEM High School instructor Ganelle Claxton, and the United Way’s Safe and Thriving St. Louis, the students received business and marketing advice from Alice Wilson of Grace Hill’s Women Business Program and Tony Davis of Made Moguls.
Sharon Cooper and her son Keith Cooper work as a team at their Qyk Step Shoe Repair Shop and Shining Parlor in North County.
Photo by Wiley Price
Qyk Step Shoe Repair Shop and Shining Parlor, located at 3240 N. Hwy 67 in Florissant, is open 9-6 p.m. Monday
through Friday, and 9-4 p.m.
n “When somebody says they don’t want to come to the White House, he disinvited them so the photo-op doesn’t look bad.”
— Kevin Durant, responding to Donald Trump canceling the Eagles visit
Sports
InsIde sports
NFL bullies its players,
Henderson Outstanding again
Former Hazelwood Central star concluding stellar career
Former Hazelwood Central girls track and field star Ashley Henderson is getting ready to conclude a fabulous collegiate career at San Diego State this weekend. Henderson will be competing in the 100- and 200meter dashes at this weekend’s NCAA Outdoor Championships in Eugene, Oregon. After a state-championship career at Hazelwood Central, Henderson went on to become one of the top female track athletes in the history of the Mountain West Conference. Henderson led the Aztecs to the women’s team championship at the Mountain West Conference Championships. She won the 100 and 200 and anchored the Aztecs to the championship of the 4x100-meter relay. She is a three-time MWC champion in the 100 and 200.
For her efforts, Henderson was named the Most Outstanding Performer of the MWC Championships, which is the fifth time she has won the award in her career. She holds the school record in the 100, which she accomplished in late April when she turned in a sizzling 10.98 seconds at the Desert Heat Classic in Tucson, Arizona. It was the fastest time in the world in 2018; plus, she became the first San Diego State woman in history to break the magical 11-second barrier.
Henderson has earned All-American honors several times during her career at the NCAA Indoor and Outdoor
In the ClutCh
With
Budding superstar
Terence ‘Bud’ Crawford moves up to welterweight to face Jeff Horn
Ever since Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Andre Ward walked away from the game, boxing has been left without a true, undisputed pound for pound king. A quick scanning of various respected pound for pound lists show Terence “Bud” Crawford, Gennady “GGG” Golovkin and Vasyl Lomachenko in the top three spots. However, the order on each list is as different and varied as the fighter’s styles. Golovkin is the stalking knockout artist. Lomachenko’s technical skills are fluid and pure. Crawford is the best of both worlds, an insanely-skilled technician with a mean streak.
rather than a career-defining victory. Golovkin hoped to clear up any confusion over which fighter was better in a rematch until Alvarez tested positive for performance enhancing drugs and got himself temporarily banned from the sport.
In December, Lomachenko began making his claim for the crown. He dominated Guillermo Rigondeaux for six rounds and forced the longtime bantamweight champion to quit on his stool.
Last September, Golovkin made his case for the pound for pound crown by out-boxing Canelo Alvarez over 12 rounds. Unfortunately, Triple G’s “Big Drama Show” played out in reality when the bout was declared a majority draw
In May, Lomachenko was forced to dig deep after he was dropped by Jorge Linares. The Ukrainian fighter bounced back by knocking out his opponent with a devastating liver shot in the Round 10. Crawford dominated the lightweight and super lightweight divisions for years. His signature performance to date was a thrilling ninth round knockout of Yuriorkis Gamboa in 2014. The Omaha native dropped the former
weight class against by going through WBO welterweight titlist Jeff Horn Horn (18-0-1, 12 KO) jumped onto the scene by earning a disputed decision victory over Manny Pacquiao last July. Though the judges’ decision was questionable, Horn’s heart and grit was not.
survived a brutal ninth round barrage from Pacquiao and remained his rugged and aggressive self for the rest of the fight. Expect Horn to fight a very aggressive and determined
Olympic gold medalist four times before the bout was halted. Since then, he has remained undefeated, stopping six of eight opponents in the process. This weekend, Crawford will make his bid as the best boxer in the world. He will move up in weight and attempt to capture a title in a third See CLUTCH, B5
could be up to 15
Earl Austin Jr.
Horn
See TRACK, B5
Ishmael H. Sistrunk
Ishmael H. Sistrunk
Photo by Wiley Price
At the Missouri High School Track Championships Sat. May 26, the Class 4 men’s 100-meter dash was won by Joshua Sutton (1292), a junior from M.I.C.D.S., with a winning time of 10.62. Weston Wendt (1120) from Carl Junction was second at 10.83, Michael Nweke (1201) from Grandview was fourth at 10.95 and Mathew Robbins (1253) from Kirksville was fifth at 11.02.
With Earl Austin Jr.
Terence ‘Bud’ Crawford’s best victory to date came over Yuriorkis Gamboa in 2014. Crawford dropped Gamboa four times before the fight was finally halted.
SportS EyE
With Alvin A. Reid
NFL bullies its players, then gets bullied by the president and won’t fight back
Black NFL players are being bullied by their respective owners through the new policy outlawing protests during the national anthem.
Most don’t like this extortion, but it remains to be seen what action they will take once the season begins.
The NFL is being bullied by President Trump, yet again, and it remains to be seen what action it will take in the wake of Monday’s latest nonsense out of the White House.
Faced with the realization that less than 10 players from the Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles were going to show up for a celebration at the White House on Tuesday, Trump cancelled the event on Monday.
Of course, Trump played to his base and lied about why the event was cancelled.
His statement said the Eagles “disagree with their President because he insists that they proudly stand for the National Anthem, hand on heart, in honor of the great men and women of our military and the people of our country.”
of different views. The men and women that wanted to go should’ve been able to go. It’s a cowardly act to cancel the celebration because the majority of the people don’t want to see you,” he shared on Twitter. Smith also wrote, “So many lies. Here are some facts 1. Not many people were going to go 2. No one refused to go simply because Trump “insists” folks stand for the anthem. 3. The President continues to spread the false narrative that players are anti-military.”
Trump’s ego would let him lead a celebration that featured about one-sixth of a team. He probably could care less about the absence of black players, but the fact that white players were passing on the visit really stung.
He, once again, is trying to create his own reality.
The sad part is that the NFL and the Eagles organization are letting him get away with it.
Rather than challenge Trump’s action, the Eagles released this statement which does not mention Trump:
Note to St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson; this is what a real mayor sounds like.
our Salute to Service, breast cancer awareness or anything else,” he said.
endorsement opportunities last year because he was not the starting quarterback.
which 10 seasons were with the St. Louis Rams, receiver Torry Holt caught 920 passes for 85 for touchdowns.
He is now passing some of his knowledge to the Los Angeles Rams receiving corps. Holt has been working as a coach during Rams OTAs and likes the feeling of being back on the field.
“(I’m) just trying to get a feel for coaching, and if this is something that I want to pursue maybe going forward,” Holt told the L.A. Times. Holt is participating in the Bill Walsh Diversity Fellowship program, which exposes minority coaches to team operations as coaches and in the front office. He has already created a compilation of strengths of each Rams’ receiver and how they can improve.
This total and complete balderdash.
The Eagles had no players kneel during the 2017 season. Malcolm Jenkins and Rodney McLeod stood during the anthem with a fist held in the air. Former St. Louis Ram Chris Long stood with his hand on his heart, but with his other hand on Jenkins’ back. That was the extent of the Eagles’ protest.
Both Jenkins and Long made it clear last February that they would not attend a White House celebration. Reportedly, no black players were headed to the White House and few white ones.
Jenkins, a vocal critic of Trump, has been stalwart in working with Congressional members of both parties and local officials on social justice issues. Long blasted the president for his support of NeoNazis and KKK members who attacked peaceful protestors in Charlottesville, Virginia last summer.
Former Eagle wide receiver Torrey Smith rightfully called Trump cowardly for his action, which the Eagles learned via the media.
“There are a lot of people on the team that have plenty
“It has been incredibly thrilling to celebrate our first Super Bowl Championship. Watching the entire Eagles community come together has been an inspiration. We are truly grateful for all of the support we have received and we are looking forward to continuing our preparations for the 2018 season.”
Owner Jeffrey Lurie reportedly blasted Trump’s statements regarding players who were protesting and was critical of the president in a private NFL meeting last fall. He was planning on attending the White House ceremony, as were coach Doug Pederson and his wife.
Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney issued a statement that included, “Fans all across the country rallied behind (the Eagles) because we like to root for the underdog and we feel joy when we see the underdogs finally win.
“I’m equally proud of the Eagles’ activism off the field. These are players who stand up for the causes they believe in and who contribute in meaningful ways to their community. They represent the diversity of our nation-a nation in which we are free to express our opinions.”
Note to the NFL; it’s time to take on the president like you take on anyone or anything else that gets in your way.
Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk said Tuesday the NFL should quit turning its tail and running.
“You have two options when dealing with a bully. You can ignore him and hope he finds someone else to bully and leaves you alone. Or you can fight back.
“The NFL should be using the second option because they are using the first and it’s obvious it’s not working. The NFL keeps placating, it keeps capitulating. Stand up for yourself and fight.”
The same NFL that chose to bully its players is getting the same treatment from the president.
Last week, when the new anthem policy was announced, Long said, “I think it was driven by fear of a diminished bottom line. And the underlying factor is that they are afraid of the president.”
Jenkins called out the NFL for targeting a specific group of players.
“We don’t have these types of policies for the other causes that we support, whether it is
“It’s just when you start talking about black folks. It’s disheartening.”
The players don’t like being bullied, and it sounds like many of them are willing to fight back.
The owners don’t like being bullied, but they are either to chummy with the president or too scared of him to act.
Standing Pat
When the Kansas City Chiefs moved up in the 2017 draft to select Patrick Mahomes it was clear that he would be taking over for incumbent starting quarterback Alex Smith sooner rather than later.
Smith was traded to the Washington Redskins during the offseason and Mahomes, one of a growing number of black quarterbacks in the NFL, will be at the Chiefs’ helm.
There is a buzz in Kansas City as the season nears.
Mahomes is often spotted at Royals games, concerts and community events. He is a fan favorite after starting – and winning – just one game last year. It came out this week that Mahomes turned down several
“We talked about how the first year the goal was to integrate into the team, and the only way to do that is to pay deference to the incumbent veterans and try not to go into the situation with a high profile,” Mahomes’ agent Leigh Steinberg told ESPN.
“We intentionally didn’t do endorsements that would run in the Kansas City area even though they were offered. We didn’t want him to be on billboards and everything when he wasn’t even playing.”
Charles Goldman of USA TODAY’ ChiefsWire wrote, “(Mahomes) wants to make sure everyone knows how serious he is about being great in the league. I think turning down truck loads of endorsement money is probably a pretty good indication of how serious he is about being a great player.”
I agree with Goldman’s assessment. For the first time in a long time, I plan to travel to Kansas City to see a Chiefs game, primarily to see Mahomes in action. I probably won’t be alone.
Holt catching on as coach During his 11-year career, of
“They want to figure out how they can improve their position, their craft and that’s what I talk to them about –details, improving, asking questions, being a student of the game,” Holt said. Holt was a seven-time Pro Bowler, had at least 1,300 receiving yards from 2000-05 and topped 1,000 yards eight times. He helped the Rams win the Super Bowl in 1999 and set a record for rookie reception yards in the game.
“He brings a unique perspective from a player that’s had as much success as anybody, understanding the nuances of the receiver position, how to separate,” coach Sean McVay said.
The Rams being in L.A., and not St. Louis, doesn’t bother Holt, unlike many bitter fans in this area.
“They were awesome last year,” Holt said of the Rams’ 11-5 season and playoff appearance.
“I’m looking forward to them being better with the details and going another step further. That’s what it’s all about.”
Alvin A. Reid was honored as the 2017 “Best Sports Columnist – Weeklies” in the Missouri Press Association’s Better Newspaper Contest and is a New York Times contributor. He is a panelist on the Nine Network program, Donnybrook, a weekly contributor to “The Charlie Tuna Show” on KFNS and appears monthly on “The Dave Glover Show” on 97.1 Talk.” His Twitter handle is @aareid1.
Surge begin quest to regain championship
By Earl Austin Jr. Of the St. Louis American
The St. Louis Surge are embarking on their seventh season as a member of the Women’s Blue Chip Basketball League. Under the leadership of owner Khalia Collier, the Surge is one of the most successful franchises in the WBCBL. They have won multiple national championships and have been at the top of the league in attendance throughout its existence. After winning national titles in 2014 and 2016 and three regional championships, the Surge barely missed repeating as national champions last season. They suffered a heartbreaking one-point loss to the Georgia Soul in the national championship game last season in St. Louis.
The Surge’s quest to regain the championship begins on Saturday evening as they open their home schedule against the Midwest Flyers Elite at Washington University. Tip-off is scheduled at 7:05 p.m. with the doors opening at 6 p.m. Head coach Tony Condra has done a tremendous job of taking over a successful program in the Surge and bringing it to another level of excellence on the court. With Condra at the controls, the Surge plays a very entertaining brand of basketball that can light up the scoreboard. They can routinely put up 100 points with several talented players sharing the ball and getting buckets. Through three games this season, the Surge is currently 2-1 and averaging 90 points a game. The leader of the team is 5’8” guard Rebecca Harris, who has been the team’s showcase performer in recent years.
The former Mascoutah and University of Illinois standout is currently averaging 31 points a game. A true stat-sheet stuffer, Harris is also averaging 6.7 rebounds, 4.7 assists and 1.3 steals while shooting 57 percent from the field and 50 percent from 3-point range.
averaging 11 points a game. The rest of the Surge roster consists of 5’7” guard Bianca Latham, 6’2” forward Mariah King, 5’6” guard Jordan Jones, 5’11” forward Leti Lerma, 5’9” guard Kelsey McClure and 6’1” forward Sherise Williams. Tickets are on sale for Surge games for $10 at the door. Season tickets can also be purchased on line at stlsurgebasketball.com.
St. Louis Surge Remaining Schedule (Home games in Caps at Washington University)
The standout sprinter won the 100-meter dash at last weekend’s Great Southwest Invitational in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Sutton posted a winning time of 10.7 seconds in the event. The previous week, he made history at the Missouri Class 4 state championships when he won the 100- and 200meter dashes, thus becom-
ing the first male athlete in the history of MICDS to win those events.
Sutton posted winning times of 10.62 in the 100 and 21.25 in the 200. He holds the school record in both events in addition to his state championships. As a sophomore, Sutton finished third in the 100 and fourth in the 200 at the state meet.
Former Alton High and Georgetown standout Jaleesa Butler has also been a strong contributor for the Surge for several seasons. The 6’1” Butler is currently averaging 15.3 and 6.1 rebounds a game while providing versatility at several positions. Another local product is former Incarnate Word Academy standout Brittany Carter who swings between forward and guard. The 6’0” Carter averages 10.3 points, five rebounds and three steals a game.
Providing even more scoring for the Surge are 6’1” forward Kristi Bellock and 6’0” guard Laura Johnson, who are both
June 9: MIDWEST FLYERS ELITE, 7:05 p.m.
June 16: at Georgia Stampede, 7 p.m.
June 17: at Atlanta Monarchs, 2 p.m.
June 23: ATLANTA MONARCHS, 7:05 p.m.
June 30: TOLEDO THREAT, 7:05 p.m.
July 7: GEORGIA STAMPEDE, 7:05 p.m.
July 15: MUSIC CITY ICONS, 2:05 p.m.
Alvin A. Reid
Malcolm Jenkins and Rodney McLeod stood during the anthem with a fist held in the air. Former St. Louis Ram Chris Long stood with his hand on his heart, but with his other hand on Jenkins’ back.
SLPS to name gymnasium at McKinley for Jo Jo White
Saint Louis Public Schools
celebrated the life and legacy of Joseph Henry “Jo Jo” White at its Special Administrative Board meeting on May 30 by announcing plans to name the gymnasium at McKinley CLA High School in his honor. The 14-by-4-foot banner that will be mounted in the gym was displayed for attendees.
White’s sister, niece, great niece and great nephew were in attendance, with niece Sandra Callier accepting proclamations from the St. Louis Mayor’s Office and U.S. Rep. Wm. Lacy Clay’s Office and speaking on the family’s behalf.
White, who passed away on January 16, competed for Vashon High School, McKinley High School, the University of Kansas, the Boston Celtics and the Gold Medal-winning 1968 Olympics USA Basketball Team.
Along with being a key part of district championship teams while playing for SLPS, White was a twotime All-American at Kansas, won two national titles with the Celtics, was named the 1976 NBA Finals MVP and was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2015.
CLUTCH
Continued from C5
He’s also utterly unpredictable. At any given moment he’s likely to pepper his opponents with a swift jab, a digging hook to the body or a looping shot to the dome. He effortlessly switches between orthodox and southpaw stances and is remarkably effective at both. At times, he seems content to outbox his opponents. Other times, he’s not satisfied unless he goes toe-to-toe and emerges as the last man standing.
ESPN’s Mark Kriegel did a profile on Crawford that took a deep dive into Bud’s backstory. His uncle was stabbed to death. His aunt served time in prison for cocaine possession. His home life was filled with plenty of alcohol and arguing by his parents. He estimates that he has been shot at approximately eight times throughout his life. That total includes the time he took a bullet in the head in 2008. Each incident made him hungrier, angrier and more dedicated to hurting people inside the squared circle. In the ring, Crawford has the total package. He’s aggressive but smart, swift yet powerful.
INSIDE
Continued from C5 pounds on fight night) to disrupt Crawford’s night. Unlike Pacquiao, Crawford is in his prime. Pacquiao’s deadliest days are far behind him. Horn’s shoulders, elbows and head butts may have very well discouraged Pac-Man from trying to take off the Aussie’s head. Against Crawford, those tactics will only ensure that his head rolls further.
Championships. She was second in the 200 and fifth in the 60-meter dash at this year’s Indoor Nationals. As a sophomore, Henderson also qualified for the U.S. Olympic Trials in the 200.
Ben McLemore Giving Back
Despite being the WBO champion and a highly-ranked welterweight, from a skill standpoint, Horn is certainly overmatched. He’s a considered a titlist while Crawford is a champion. I fully expect Crawford to end the hardnosed Aussie’s night around Round 7 on Saturday night. Once he gets Horn in trouble, he won’t fail to capitalize as Pacquiao did.
Even with an impressive KO victory, Crawford’s status as the man won’t likely be cemented on Saturday night. However, his foray into the stacked welterweight division will certainly help clear up whether he can outshine Lomachenko or Golovkin in his quest for pound for pound
Former Wellston high basketball star and current National Basketball Association player Ben McLemore of the Memphis Grizzlies is giving back to his community with a weekend full of excellent activities. On Friday, McLemore will be hosting a backpack giveaway and a free basketball clinic for kids at the Redman Center in Wellston. On Saturday, there will be a Community Career Fair from noon to 2 p.m. There will also be an Awards Banquet from 6 p.m.-9 p.m. at the University City High School Auditorium to honor distinguished students from University City and Normandy high schools. The event will also honor people in the community who are making a difference with area youths. The final event of the weekend will be a celebrity basketball game, which will be held on Sunday at Normandy High School.
supremacy. If he gets past Horn, enticing matchups await. Fight fans should salivate at the potential of watching Crawford climb into the ring with Keith
McLemore was one of the top players in the rich basketball history of Eskridge High in Wellston, which closed its doors in 2011. He went on to have a great freshman season at Kansas before being a NBA lottery pick with the Sacramento Kings. He joined the Grizzlies for the 2017-18 season as a free agent.
R.I.P. C.M. Newton
College basketball coaching legend C.M. Newton died this week at the age of 88. C.M. Newton was one of the most important men in the history of the Southeastern Conference. A quiet and humble man, Newton was a socially conscious individual who made many bold
Thurman, Errol Spence Jr. or Danny Garcia
There has even been talk of a possible bout between Crawford and Pacquiao. That bout would surely serve as
and progressive moves for African-Americans during his iconic career in athletics in the deep South.
As the head coach at Alabama in 1976, Newton fielded an all-black starting five that won the SEC and nearly upended Indiana’s undefeated season during the NCAA Tournament. I really
a boost to Crawford’s bank account and give him a sizeable audience to prove why he should be considered the best fighter in the world.
Terence Crawford took a bullet to the head in 2008. That didn’t stop him for earning world championships in the lightweight and super lightweight divisions.
Crawford vs Horn will be televised on ESPN+ Saturday, June 9 starting at 8:30 CST. Follow Ishmael and In the Clutch on Twitter @ishcreates.
loved that team that featured Leon Douglas at center, Reggie “Mule” King and Rickey Brown at forwards with T.R. Dunn and Anthony Murray in the backcourt. They were an outstanding team to watch. More than two decades later, as the athletic director at the University of Kentucky, Newton hired Tubby Smith as the first African-American coach of the school’s storied basketball program. Smith went on to lead the Wildcats to the NCAA national championship in 1998.
C.M. Newton was a great coach, great administrator and a great man.
The family of Hall of Fame basketball star Joseph Henry “Jo Jo” White displays proclamations from the St. Louis Mayor’s Office and U.S. Rep. Wm. Lacy Clay’s Office and a resolution from the St. Louis Board of Aldermen. Pictured from left: Lavoughnda White, great niece; Michael Callier, great nephew; Adlean Foster, sister; Alderwoman Marlene Davis; and Sandra Callier, niece.
Clay to host career fair June 11 at Harris-Stowe
U.S. Rep. Wm. Lacy Clay (D-Missouri) will present his 13th annual First District Career Fair 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Monday, June 11 at Harris-Stowe State University’s Emerson Physical Education & Performing Arts Center, 3026 Laclede Ave. This free event will feature over 100 of the St. Louis area’s top employers who are seeking to fill more than 1,000 job openings.
“They’re looking to fill more than 1000 job openings at all skill levels,” Clay said. “We’re also offering great job opportunities with federal, state and local government agencies. Last year, thousands of eager job seekers attended. I would advise guests to arrive early, dress for success, and have your resumes ready.” For those interested in public service, the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency, the Federal Aviation Administration, the Social Security Administration and the U.S. Census Bureau will attend the Clay Career Fair. The St. Louis Vet Center will also be on hand to help veterans find
the right job.
Private-sector St. Louis employers who will be on hand include the Boeing Company, Enterprise, Caleres, Monsanto, Mercy Healthcare, World Wide Technology, Centene, Express Scripts, iHeartRadio, Hollywood Casino, United Parcel Service, Federal Express, Emmis Communications, Radio One, Spectrum, CitiBank and Regions Bank.
For more information, call (314) 367-1970 or visit www. lacyclay.house.gov.
Financial Focus
By Ana Stringfellow
Here’s a checklist for changing jobs
U.S. Rep. Wm. Lacy Clay thanks the team from Boeing, one of the over 100 employers that will be participating in his 13th annual Career Fair at Harris-Stowe State University on Monday, June 11.
‘Romeo and Juliet’ for today’s generation
By
Contrasted by a traditional Italian funeral processional, the contemporary scenery and the pace of the opening fight scene of Shakespeare Festival St. Louis’ presentation of “Romeo and Juliet” creates curiosity from the very beginning. But when Reynaldo Piniella eases on the stage as Romeo, he snatches the attention of the audience and never lets them go. His Romeo has some serious swag – and beyond the skinny jeans, leather jacket and dark glasses of his costume. Even in chill mode, his energy and presence starting from when he introduces himself to the audience set the tone for director Elena Araoz’s production that speaks to all ages – even the millennial.
Shakespeare Festival St. Louis’ presentation of “Romeo and Juliet” continues through Sunday, June 24 at Forest Park’s Shakespeare Glen.
Piniella shines in stimulating SFSTL production that speaks to millennials
Shakespeare purists may be put off by the modernization of the play, which runs through June 24 at Shakespeare Glen in Forest Park. But the true gift of history’s greatest playwright
is his timelessness. Shakespeare Festival St. Louis repackages “Romeo and Juliet” so that his words hit home – and creates a production that manages to engage even those digital natives who live in a constant state of distraction.
Just about everyone – including those who haven’t seen the production – is familiar with the play’s premise. Two teens from enemy families fall in love. A series of unfortunate circumstances deny them their happily-ever-after, but serves as a wake-up call for the warring houses of Capulet and Montague.
Some might compare this production to Baz Luhrmann’s film adaptation starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes. Even if meant as a compliment, it sells Shakespeare Festival St.
See ROMEO, C4
‘It’s a party with a purpose’
Grammy winner Norman Brown headlines 2nd annual Eta Boule benefit concert
By Kenya Vaughn
Of The St. Louis American
“Last year we felt the energy in the room – from the audience and from the men being honored,” said Johnny Furr, president of the Eta Boule, the local chapter of Sigma Pi Phi. “It was their night. It was a way for us to salute the men.”
In 2017, St. Louis’ representatives of the oldest African American Greek letter organization presented their inaugural Eta Boule Salute to Fathers and Mentors concert. In addition to the musical experience, the evening honors community leaders and proceeds from the night fund initiatives of their Eta Boule Foundation.
“We are back at it again,” Furr said. “It is an excellent way to kick off Father’s Day
Going out with a jam
present Jam and Preserves Sunday, June 10 at the Sheldon Concert Hall.
Music educator Stanley Coleman to celebrate retirement with concert featuring former students, renowned jazz pianist
By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American
After more than 30 years as a music educator, Stanley Coleman said farewell at the end of the 2018 school year. He taught in the Wellston, Jennings and St. Louis Public Schools – and spent twenty years at University City, where he was instrumental in forming the jazz program at Brittany Woods Middle School.
As an encore, Coleman decided to go out with a bang by way of his Jam and Preserves featuring Alexis Lombre at 2 p.m. on Sunday, June 10 at the Sheldon Concert Hall. He broke down how his students inspired the clever title of his show.
Grammy Awardwinning jazz guitarist Norman Brown will headline the 2nd Annual Eta Boule Salute to Fathers and Mentors concert Friday, June 15 at Sheldon Concert Hall.
n “Not only has it fed me emotionally and spiritually, but I also had an opportunity to feed my students’ lives.”
“The deal is, I taught my kids songs that they could go to anybody’s jam session and play,” Coleman said. “The preserve part is to preserve the legacy of playing live jazz music. The art of black musicians playing what is inherently theirs is dying, and I want to preserve it.” Lombre, an internationally renowned Chicago-based pianist Coleman calls “the truth,” will headline the show that also features 2018 “American Idol” top 50 finalist Christina Jones. Several former students and young musicians Coleman has mentored throughout the years will come from all over to join in the jam.
“It’s going to be fun. I’m going to give them the music, I’ll count it off and we’ll just go –that’s how it’s going to be,” Coleman said. “To be honest, I don’t know what to expect – which is a beautiful thing.”
He’s introduced countless young people to the art of musicianship. His passion for it stems back to his own childhood.
“I went to Wentzville, Missouri – to a country club across from Chuck Berry’s farm and say Benny Sharp and the Sharpies when I was 10 years old,” Coleman said. “I heard this live sound. I ran to the edge of the stage. My mom had to pull me from the front. I told her, ‘This is what I want to do,’ and she went out and got me a saxophone.”
He learned from the best musicians St. Louis had to offer – like Oliver Sain and Willie Akins.
See COLEMAN, C4
Kenya Vaughn
Of The St. Louis American
Stanley Coleman, who recently retired after more than 30 years as a music educator, will
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juneteenth festivities
Sat., June 16, 9:30 a.m., Juneteenth Community Ride. Missouri History Museum, 5700 Lindell Blvd., 63112. For more information, visit www. trailnet.org/calendar.
Sat., June 16, 11 a.m., Sabayet 12th Annual Juneteenth Celebration African dancing, vendors, bands, a Juneteenth play, and more. 4000 Maffitt St., 63113. For more information, visit www.sabayet.org.
Sat., June 16, 2 p.m., The Juneteenth Block Party. Celebrate our heritage while visiting vendors, listening to guest speakers, doing free health screenings, and more. For more information, visit www.facebook.com.
Sat., June 16, 5 p.m., Missouri Historical Society Juneteenth Celebration.
A family-friendly outdoor festival featuring live entertainment, spoken word, a film screening, and much more. 5700 Lindell Blvd., 63112. For more information, visit www.facebook.com.
concerts
Fri., June 8, 5:30 p.m., Hot 104.1 Super Jam. Feat Post Malone, 21 Savage, Remy Ma, SOB X RBE, DJ Luke Nasty, & Derez De’Shon. Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre, 14141 Riverport Dr., 63043. For more information, visit www. topeventpromoter.com.
Fri., June 9, 9 p.m., First Class LLC presents G Herbo: Kickin’ Tour. Ambassador, 9800 Halls Ferry Rd., 63136. For more information, visit www.metrotix.com.
Sat., June 10, 1 p.m., U City Jazz Festival. Feat.
The Fusion Warriors, Mo Egeston All-Stars, Soul Café, and more. Heman Park, 7210 Olive Blvd., 63130. For more information, visit www. ucityjazzfestival.com.
Sun., June 10, 6 p.m., PreFather’s Day Concert feat. Bloodstone with Lamont Hadley. Grandel Theatre, 3610 Grandel Sq., 63103. For more information, call (314) 4967751.
Sun., June 10, 7 p.m., Soulful Sunday Father’s Day with Carolyn Mason. National Blues Museum, 615 Washington Ave., 63101. For more information, visit www. nationalbluesmuseum.org.
Tues., June 12, 7 p.m., Mike Judy presents Sir the Baptist. Old Rock House, 1200 S. 7th St., 63104. For more information, visit www. oldrockhouse.com.
Thur., June 14, 8 p.m., SiriusXM Shade 45 presents Tech N9ne. The Pageant, 6161 Delmar Blvd., 63112. For more information, visit www. thepageant.com.
Fri., June 15, 7 p.m., The Eta Boule Foundation Salute to Fathers & Mentors feat. Norman Brown. With comedian James Stephens III, Denise Thimes, and Tim Cunningham Sheldon Concert Hall, 3648 Washington Blvd., 63108. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.
June 15 – 17, Jazz St. Louis presents Father’s Day with The Bosman Twins. Jazz at the Bistro, 3536 Washington Ave., 63103. For more information, visit www.jazzstl. org.
Sun., June 17, 7 p.m., AJ Mack Entertainment and VBBM Entertainment welcomes The “MY LEVEL”TOUR starring Stokley Williams former lead singer of Mint Condition, Touhill Performing Arts
Kenya Vaughn recommends
details.
Center. For more information, visit https://www.touhill.org/ events/detail/stokleys-mylevel-fathers-day-concert
Sun., June 22, 5:30 p.m., The Ready Room presents Trill Sammy. 4195 Manchester Ave., 63110. For more information, visit www. topeventpromoter.com.
local gigs
June 8 – 9, 8 p.m., 3rd Annual Miles Davis Festival First night features Miles Davis Quintet. Second night features the Miles Davis Sextet and Randy Holmes Sextet. Ozark Theatre, 103 E. Lockwood Ave., 63119. For more information, call (314) 962-7000.
Sat., June 9, 1 p.m., U City Jazz Festival. Feat. The Fusion Warriors, Mo Egeston All-Stars, Soul Café, and more. Heman Park, 7210 Olive Blvd., 63130. For more information, visit www. ucityjazzfestival.com.
special events
Christopher Harris Youth Violence Prevention Day March. Compton Hill Reservoir Park, S. Grand Blvd., 63104. For more information, visit www. facebook.com.
Fri., June 8, 9 a.m., MSD Rate Commission Public Hearing. Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District, 2350 Market St., 63103. For more information, visit www.stlmsd. com.
Fri., June 8, 4 p.m., Sauce Magazine’s Food Truck Friday. More than 20 trucks join the festivities. Tower Grove Park, 4256 Magnolia Ave., 63110. For more information, visit www. facebook.com
June 8 – 10, Fair U City. U City Jazz Festival, vendors, carnival rides, and more. Heman Park, 975 Pennsylvania Ave., 63130. For more information, visit www. fairucity.com.
Sat., June 9, That Purple Stuff: A Prince Tribute. Performances by Blvck Spvde, The DJ JMO James Biko, and more. 2720 Cherokee St., 63118. For more information, visit www.eventbrite.com.
Sat., June 9, 7:30 p.m., Afriky Lolo presents Bring on the Beat: Celebrating the Footwork of the Ancestors The Grandel, 3610 Grandel Sq., 63108. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.
Sun., June 10, 2 p.m., Stress Free Day Party. The Palamino Lounge, 5876 Delmar Blvd., 63112. For more information, email maj_826@yahoo.com.
Sun., June 10, 4 p.m., Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Gamma Omega presents the SophistAKAted Sunday Day Party. Central West End Bed & Breakfast, 4045 Washington Blvd., 63108. For more information, visit www. akagostl.com.
Sat., June 9, 5 p.m., Central West End Cocktail Party. Enjoy live entertainment, a spirited cocktail competition and, more. Euclid Ave Between Maryland and McPherson, 63108. For more information, visit www. cwecocktailparty.com.
Fri., June 15, 5:30 p.m., Nightlife 3rd Annual Father’s Day Weekend Peace Walk. West Side MB Church, 4675 Page Blvd., 63113. For more information, visit www. facebook.com.
Fri., June 15, 7 p.m., Wells Fargo Advisors presents A Zoo Ado. Eat and drink while strolling around the Zoo, rock out at the main stage, and help support our conservation efforts. 1 Government Dr., 63110. For more information, visit www.stlzoo.org.
Sat., June 16, 10 a.m., Emmanuel Temple Church presents a Summertime Bazaar. Join us for food, fellowship, and shopping. 4935 Union Blvd., 63115. For more information, call (314) 5988187.
Sat., June 16, 6 p.m., TLT Productions presents #BlackBoyJoy. Some of STL’s hottest young artists hit the stage to promote men of color in music, entertainment and visionary aspects. St. Louis Post-Dispatch Pop Music Critic Kevin C. Johnson will receive The Vanguard Award.Zack, 3224 Locust St., 63103. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.
Sat., June 23, 11 a.m., Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Omicron Theta Omega Chapter presents Pink Pizzazz Jazz Scholarship Brunch. Renaissance Airport Hotel, 9801 natural Bridge Rd., 63134. For more information, visit www. pinkpizzazz.eventbrite.com.
Sat., June 23, 12 p.m., Tower Grove Pride. Over 100 local artists, performances, activities, food trucks and much more. Tower Grove Park, Arsenal and S. Grand, 63110. For more information, visit www.facebook.com.
Sun., June 10, 2 p.m., Stan Coleman’s Jams & Preserves. Celebrate the career of musician and educator, Stan Coleman, as he performs with current and former students. Sheldon Concert Hall, 3648 Washington Blvd., 63108. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.
Thur., June 14, 4:30 p.m., Matt Carpenter Baseball ProCamp. Westminster Christian Academy, 800 Maryville Centre Dr., 63017. For more information, visit www.procamps.com/ mattcarpenter.
Thur., June 14, 6:30 p.m., Metropolitan Congregations United presents Jammin’ For Justice 2018. Music by The People’s Key, door prizes, and more. The Ready Room, 4195 Manchester Ave., 63110. For more information, visit www. mcustlouis.org/events.
Fri., June 15, 5:30 p.m., Urban League St. Louis presents the Salute to Women in Leadership Gala. Honoring 19 distinguished women, including Cathy
Sat., June 23, 3 p.m., Great Moments in Black Music IV, African American Musicals The Legend Singers celebrate 78 years. Prince of Peace Missionary Church, 9350 Natural Bridge Rd., 63134. For more information, call (314) 524-9086.
Thur., June 7, 6 p.m., Hughes, founder of Radio One. Marriott St. Louis Grand, 800 Washington Ave., 63101. For more information, visit www. ulstl.com.
Sun., June 24, 7 p.m., House Quake “A Tribute to Prince”. Voce, 212 South Tucker Blvd., 63102. For more information, visit www. regaltix.com.
Through Aug. 10, Operation Food Search’s Summer Meals Program. The mobile meal vans will serve 33 locations via three routes. A daily dose of nutrition, along with a variety of games, arts, crafts, and STEM projects. For more information, visit www. operationfoodsearch.org.
comedy
June 8 – June 10, Helium presents Benji Brown, Helium Comedy Club, 1151 St. Louis Galleria Street, St. Louis, MO 63117. For more information, call (314) 7271260 or visit http://st-louis.
St. Louis County Library hosts author Zinzi Clemmons. See LITERARY for
heliumcomedy.com
Sun., June 17, 6 p.m., Comedian Willie C presents Laughin’ Wit Yo Daddy. Feat. Charles Spinks, Kym D., Jimell Jones, and more. Blueberry Hill, 6504 Delmar Blvd., 63130. For more information, visit www. blueberryhill.com.
June 21- June 24, Helium Comedy Club presents Tony Rock, Helium Comedy Club, 1151 St. Louis Galleria Street, St. Louis, MO 63117. For more information, call (314) 727-1260 or visit http:// st-louis.heliumcomedy.com
literary
Sun., June 10, 4 p.m., Left Bank Books hosts author Keith Hernandez, author of I’m Keith Hernandez. The former Cardinals first baseman takes us along on his journey to baseball immortality. 399 N. Euclid Ave., 63108.
Sat., June 9, 3 p.m., Official Book Launch of No More Lemons Join self-published author Latosha Carter for an afternoon of fellowship and the release of her testimonial book. Regional Arts Commission, 6128 Delmar Blvd., 63112. For more information, visit www. latoshacarter.com.
Tues., June 12, 7 p.m., St. Louis County Library hosts author Zinzi Clemmons author of What We Lose Headquarters, 1640 S. Lindbergh Blvd., 63131. For more information, visit www. slcl.org.
Wed., June 13, 7 p.m., Maryville Talks Book hosts author Dan Abrams, author of Lincoln’s Last Trial: The Murder Case that Propelled Him to the Presidency Maryville University Auditorium, 650 Maryville University Dr., 63131. For more information, visit www. left-bank.com.
Mon., June 18, 7 p.m., St.
Louis County Library hosts author Ben Rhodes, author of The World As It Is: A Memoir of the Obama Administration Library Headquarters, 1640 S. Lindbergh Blvd., 63131. For more information, visit www. slcl.org.
Wednesdays through June 27, Weekly Writers Workshop. Students in the 6th - 9th grade will work on improving their grammar and essay writing. Eyeseeme, 7827 Olive Blvd., 63130. For more information, visit www. eyeseeme.com.
Thur., June 28, 7 p.m., St. Louis County Library hosts Dr. Mona Hanna-Attisha, author of What the Eyes Don’t See. Dr. Mona proved Flint’s kids were exposed to lead. Library Headquarters, 1640 S. Lindbergh Blvd., 63131.
theatre
Through June 24, Shakespeare Festival St. Louis presents “Romeo and Juliet,” Shakespeare Glen in Forest Park. For more information, visit www.sfstl. org
June 19 – 25, The Muny presents The Wiz. 1 Theatre Dr., 63112. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.
art
Fri., June 22, 10 a.m., Art Auction. Paintings, prints, photographs, lithographs, and more. Preview June 21 at 3 p.m. 1325 N. Warson Rd., 63132. For more information, visit www.auctionzip. com/3dauctions.
Through June 24, From Caricature to Celebration: A Brief History of AfricanAmerican Dolls. Field House Museum, 634 S. Broadway, 63102. For more information, visit www.fieldhousemuseum. org.
Through August 19, Contemporary Art Museum hosts the opening reception for 2018 Great Rivers Biennial Featuring artists Addoley Dzegede, Sarah Paulsen, and Jacob Stanley, Amy Sherald, and Claudia Comte. On view through August 19. 3750 Washington Blvd., 63108.
lectures and workshops
Wed., June 13, 6 p.m., Hispanic Leaders Group of Greater St. Louis presents A Meeting with Hon. Mark Parson, Lt. Governor of Missouri. St. Louis Community College at Forest Park, 5600 Oakland Ave., 63110. For more information, visit www.facebook.com.
Wed., June 13, 7 p.m., Community Conversations: Net Neutrality. Kirkwood Public Library, 140 E.
Jefferson Ave., 63122. For more information, visit www. kirkwoodpubliclibrary.org.
Sat., June 16, 2 p.m., Josephine Baker: A Modern Women featuring Olivia Lahs-Gonzales. Kirkwood Public Library, 140 E. Jefferson Ave., 63122. For more information, visit www. kirkwoodpubliclibrary.org.
Sat., June 23, 11 a.m., Candidate Forum for 79th District State Representative. Meet the candidates, hear the platforms, and ask questions. Mission St. Louis, 3108 North Grand, 63107. For more information, visit www.hydeparkstlouis. org.
health
Sat., June 9, 7 a.m., Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. Join us for the 20th anniversary 9288 Dielman Industrial Dr., 63132. For more information and
to register, visit www. komenmissouri.org/STLRace.
Sun., June 10, 7 a.m., St. Luke’s Hospital presents the Tour de Wellness. Reststops along the course, food, music, and interactive booths, health and wellness screenings, and more. St. Lukes Desloge Outpatient Center, 121 St. Luke’s Center Dr., 63017. For more information, call (314) 576-2345.
Sat., June 23, 7:30 a.m., The Epilepsy Foundation of Missouri and Kansas presents the Seize the Day 5K Run/Walk. Kirkwood Park, 111 S Geyer Rd., 63122. For more information, visit www.crowdrise. com/2018SeizetheDayStLouis.
Sat., June 23, 8:30 a.m., Walk to Defeat ALS. Forest Park, Upper Muny parking lot, 1 Theatre Dr., 63112. For more information, visit web.alsa.org/ stlouis.
Through June 10, Shining Light Pentecostal Church Pastoral & Elect Lady 32nd Pastoral Anniversary. 3054 Sheridan Ave., 63106. For more information, visit www. facebook.com.
Fri., June 8, 6 p.m., Shalom Church City of Peace Church & Pastor Anniversary Signature Gala. St. Charles Convention Center, 1 Convention Center Plz., 63303. For more information, visit www. shalomccop.org.
Sat., June 16, 10 a.m., Emmanuel Temple Church presents a Summertime Bazaar. Join us for food, fellowship, and shopping. 4935 Union Blvd., 63115. For more information, call (314) 598-8187.
Sat., June 16, 5 p.m., A Night of Gospel Jazz with Saxophonist Rod Tate. First Baptist Church of St. Louis City, 3100 Bell Ave., 63106. For more information, call (314) 533-8003 or (636) 9780800.
June 18 – 22, 23rd Annual Jurisdictional AIM Convention: Breaking the Chains that Bind. Kennerly Temple Extension COGIC, 8810 Midland Blvd., 63114. For more information, visit www.facebook.com.
June 19 – 22, Power Conference & Holy Convocation. Hilton St. Louis Airport, 10330 Natural Bridge Rd., 63134. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.
Thur., June 21, 7:30 p.m., The Presbyterian Foundation presents Kirk Whalum. The Gospel according to jazz. America’s Center Convention Complex - Ferrara Theatre, 701 Convention Plaza, 63101. For more information, visit www. ga-pcusa.org.
Kenya Vaughn recommends
Helium Comedy Club presents Tony Rock. For more information, see COMEDY.
Louis’ production short. Araoz brings diversity to the stage from every angle. David Heron and Patrice Foster look as if they could be Piniella’s biological parents as Lord and Lady Montague. Meanwhile AfricanAmerican actress Cherie Corrine Rice’s Lady Capulet couldn’t look more different than her stage daughter Juliet, played by the blonde-haired Sigrid Wise.
The same goes for Margery and Peter Spack’s scenic design that blends bold colors of the nightlife district in a thriving metropolis with the towering architecture of a historic estate, and Dottie Marshall Englis works the same hybrid magic with her costumes. This “Romeo and Juliet” also has a soundtrack of original music by the Dust Ensemble that hints at hip-hop, neo soul and rock in addition to Medieval orchestrations over the course of the show.
Actors take varying approaches that are blended with respect to style to reflect both classical and contemporary approaches to Shakespeare.
Terrell Wheeler takes goes urban with his Mercutio, while Jane Paradise’s Nurse, Michael James Reed’s Lord Capulet and Gary Glasgow’s Friar Laurence (a brilliantly comic turn) echo the classical theater experience. Antonio Rodriguez’s Benvolio lies somewhere in the middle. The chemistry is authentic even as they present their respective characters from the style that best suits them.
Piniella’s Romeo takes the biggest risk – and yields the greatest reward. As he speaks, he gives Romeo an intentional drawl that gives his words the opportunity to marinate with the audience. He slows Romeo down, and one can’t help but soak him in.
Young people of color will find themselves reflected on stage – and youth from all backgrounds who see “Romeo and Juliet” will connect with production as the
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in St. Louis in a while,” Furr said of the Kansas City native.
“I saw him at the Newport Jazz Festival about a year ago and he just rocked the house and thought ‘we have to bring him to St. Louis.’”
The show will also feature local jazz favorites Denise Thimes and Tim Cunningham –and nationally renowned comedian James Stevens III.
“The value for your ticket is unbelievable,” Furr said about the event, which also includes an afterparty and an opportunity to praise men making a difference in the community by way of a brief awards program. This year’s community service honorees include Dr. Nathaniel Murdock, David Price, Wayman Smith and Dr. Donald M. Suggs.
The value stretches beyond what guests will get when they attend the show. Their dollars are sowing into the lives of young African American future leaders. Proceeds from the event fund the initiatives of the Eta Boule Foundation, particularly the Young Men of Achievement program at Jennings Junior High School and the Leadership Development Program at
COLEMAN
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play. At the 7:15 p.m. Green Show on Thursday through Sunday nights, the festival’s youth ensemble, Shakespeare Squadron, performs a brilliantly conceived 25-minute version of the play under Gad Guterman’s direction, with the incredibly talented teens rearranging sets while delivering Shakespeare’s ornate and tricky English.
Shakespeare Festival St. Louis lives up to its promise to pay the gift of Shakespeare
forward to a new generation –by creating a production that is an illustration of the world we now live in.
Shakespeare Festival St. Louis’ presentation of “Romeo and Juliet” continues through Sunday, June 24 at Forest Park’s Shakespeare Glen. The green show begins at 6:30 p.m. and the mainstage begins at 8 p.m. For more information, visit https://www.sfstl.com or call (314) 531-9800.
Late trumpeter Floyd LeFlore was his first jazz teacher. He and young fellow musicians formed Youngblood Inc., which later became Constellation. The band was quite popular on the black music circuit in the region and beyond. He also made a name for himself as a saxophonist aside from the group. He played on Broadway. He was the go-to saxophonist for musicals produced by the Black Rep for several years.
Harris-Stowe University in particular.
For the past seven years, the men of Eta Boule have had a mentoring program at Jennings Junior High School. They adopt a class of 60 students. The goal is to inspire them to succeed academically and in life. They take them outside of the classroom for additional experiences, including college tours and managing peer pressure, conflict resolution and etiquette.
“There are some young men who are 14 and 15 years old and don’t even know how to tie a tie,” Furr said. “We believe that there are some excellent young men in this community that just need to be supported. Some of the problems faced in the community are huge, but if given the proper support and proper nurturing, they can succeed.”
The other Eta Boule Foundation program supported by proceeds from the Salute to Fathers and Mentors concert is their leadership development at Harris-Stowe State University. The program includes a lecture series that includes careerspecific and life skills topics and their 20 for 20 mentoring initiative that gives one-on-one mentoring to 20 male students.
“We connect with them as juniors and we stay with them through their senior year,” Furr said. “They receive scholarships. They receive career and
As he gigged, Coleman continued with his education.
He was fresh out of Webster when he returned to his alma mater Halter High School in the Wellston School District. A former teacher told him that if he went back to get his master’s degree, there would be a job waiting for him – so that’s what he did. At 23 years old, Coleman took his graduate degree and got to work shaping the minds of young people by helping develop their sound.
“This is what I was supposed to have done,” Coleman said of his career in music education.
“Not only has it fed me emotionally and spiritually, but I also had an opportunity to feed my students’ lives.” Coleman said that music is crucial to a well-rounded education because it is an important asset to critical thinking and multitasking.
“You have to really listen,” Coleman said. “It makes you do eight or nine things at one time,
workforce readiness training, internships in the summer. We are trying to get them ready for graduation and career readiness going forward. Our whole mission is to support and foster the achievement and excellence in young men within the St. Louis region.”
Furr said the evening is to praise the African American men who have gone above and beyond to reach back, pay forward and lay the foundation for others to succeed – sometimes without any credit.
“We have uncles, we have cousins and brothers who have stepped in the gap and supported African American men,” Furr said. “We want people to come out support them and fathers – and we want to pay homage to four great leaders who are great fathers, mentors and role models. The value for your ticket is unbelievable – and its’ going to help support African American men. It’s a party with a purpose.”
The 2nd Annual Eta Boule Salute to Fathers and Mentors concert will take place on Friday, June 15 at The Sheldon Concert Hall, 3648 Washington Blvd. A reception will take place at 6 p.m. The program begins at 7 p.m. Tickets are available at www.metrotix.com and by phone at (314) 5341111.
when most people can’t walk and chew gum.”
He is proud of the music he helped his students discover. But he is even more proud of the people he has watched them become.
“Everybody is not a musician – I have students who have gone on to become officers in the Navy, to work at AnheuserBusch and at Stanford working on their MBA,” Coleman said. “They don’t have to be a musician for me to be happy – just productive citizens and good people.”
Coleman says his next chapter includes getting back into the groove of being a full-time musician, which will kick off with Jam and Preserves next Sunday at The Sheldon.
“I just want to say goodbye –and hello again,” Coleman said. Stan Coleman’s Jam and Preserves featuring Alexis Lombre will take place at 2 p.m. on Sunday, June 10 at The Sheldon Concert Hall, 3648
Reynaldo Piniella’s Romeo takes the biggest risk – and yields the greatest reward. As he speaks, he gives Romeo an intentional drawl that gives his words the opportunity to marinate with the audience.
Celebrations
School of Character
Brown Elementary School in the Hazelwood School District received the School of Character Honorable Mention award for the second year in a row. Schools of Character are recognized for their efforts to positively shape the social, emotional, and character development of students.
Pictured: Counselor, Kenneth Woods; 5th Grade Teacher, Pete Kain; Reading Specialist, Darnetta Wafford; Instructional Specialist, Chris Spanberger; Principal, Marvin Talley
Reunions
All reunion announcements can be viewed online!
Beaumont High School Class of 1968 will celebrate its 50 year Class Reunion June 22-24, 2018 at the Sheraton Westport Chalet, 191 Westport Plaza. For more information, please contact Vanetta Cobbs, 314-869-5665 or email vanetta.cobbs@sbcglobal.net.
Beaumont High Class of 1973 will celebrate its 45th reunion, Aug. 10-12, 2018! To register contact: Dr. Liz Franklin at,
mychoice2succeed@yahoo. com or (636)293-9553. Also, check out the BHS Facebook page.
Beaumont Class of 1978 40th Reunion Extravaganza Save the Date: October 5-7, 2018. Call or text Marietta Shegog Shelby at 314-799-5296 for further details.
Homer G. Phillips and St. Louis Municipal School of Nursing all class reunion will be held June 22-24, 2018. All major activities will be held at the St. Louis Airport Hilton, 10330 Natural Bridge Rd, St. Louis, MO 63134. Awarding of nursing scholarships will be Saturday, June 23, at the banquet. For information please e-mail asims4@charter. net or call (314)261-2800 or (314)868-0288.
McKinley High School Class
Anniversaries
Joseph and Frances Varner celebrated 47 years of marriage on June 1. Both are retired and they are members of Chris our Redeemer SME Church in Black Jack, Mo. They are the proud parents of three children, six grandchildren and two great-grands.
of 1978 40th Class Reunion will take place July 27-29, 2018 at the Embassy SuitesAirport Hotel in St. Louis, Missouri. Classmates from all McKinley H.S. classes are invited. Registration is required. To register, contact Barbara Lindsey, Barbara_ Lindsey@icloud.com or Marvin Woods, mwoods@ projectcontrolsgroup.com or (314) 647-0707.
Northwest High School Class of 1978 is planning its 40 year reunion for next year. PLEASE reach out to our classmates, tell them get ready for this. If you have any questions please contact Sly at (314) 397-0311 or email us at northwestbluedevils@78gmail. com. Check us out on Facebook Northwest High School-Class of 1978.
Northwest Class of 1979
Lonnell and Janice Jamison will celebrate 40 years of marriage on June 11, 2018. They will enjoy a cruise to Belize, Honduras, Guatemala, Cozumel, and Cuba to celebrate this beautiful milestone.
is planning on cruising for our 40th class reunion and would love for you to join us! Date to sail is set for July 20, 2019 and you can feel free to contact: Duane Daniels at 314-568-2057 or Howard Day at 414-698-4261 for further information. Please don’t miss the boat!
O’Fallon Tech Class of 1983 will have its 35-year reunion. June 8: Ballroom Gala at Infinite Occasion Banquet. June 9: Picnic/BBQ Bash at McDonnell Park. Weekend Cost: $85 Alumni/$45 Non-Alumni. June 16–20: All-inclusive trip to Riviera Maya, Cancun, Mexico Cost: Double Occupancy starting at $944/$1888. For more information, contact April at 314-307-9114 or Sharon at 314-623-3435 or checkout OFT Class of ’83 Facebook page.
FREE OF CHARGE
Do you have a celebration you’re proud of? If so we would like to share your good news with our readers. Whether it’s a birth, wedding, engagement announcement, anniversary, retirement or birthday, send your photos and a brief announcement (50 words or less) to us and we may include it in our paper and website – AT NO COST – as space is available Photos will not be returned. Send your announcements to: kdaniel@stlamerican. com or mail to:
St. Louis American Celebrations c/o Kate Daniel 2315 Pine St. St. Louis, MO 63103
Sumner High School Class of 1973 will have its 45th year class reunion the weekend of June 22-24, 2018. More info to follow outlining the details. If you did not receive a newsletter in January, please contact Marsha Joseph-Williams (314606-8701) or Dorris SimmonsMcGhaw(314-541-2462). You can also inbox Sid S. Shurn or Dorris on Facebook.
Sumner Alumni Association will have its 10th Scholarship Awards Luncheon & Fashion Show on June 9, 2018, Noon4 pm honoring Mr. Marvin Neals, Ph.D. Dr. Lynn Beckwith, Jr. our Master of Ceremony and KMJtheDJ. The cost is $50 to attend and includes a cash bar, free parking, attendance prizes and more. For more info, contact B. Louis at 314.385.9843 or email: sumneralumniassn@ yahoo.com.
Reunion notices are free of charge and based on space availability. We prefer that notices be emailed to us! However, notices may also be sent by mail to:
Kate Daniel, 2315 Pine St., St. Louis, MO 63103
Deadline is 10 a.m. on Friday. If you’d like your class to be featured in a reunion profile, email or mail photos to us. Our email address is: reunions@ stlamerican.com
Boyz II Men sang the Symphony down. Listen, I stopped by Powell Symphony Hall to relive my 90s by way of Boyz II Men– and got my whole entire life in the process. I haven’t been so fanatical over them since they opened for M.C. Hammer at The Arena back in ‘91. Yes, while y’all were all up on Jodeci, I was team MotownPhilly for life. Based on how the folks cut up (in a good way) in that fancy concert hall that is reserved for Bach and Brahms and ‘nem, I’m clearly not the only one. I have been to Powell Hall more times than I can count. And I can say with authority that I’ve never seen grown women try to rush that stage before Shawn, Nate and Wanya made their Powell Hall debut Thursday night. When the Symphony Orchestra started playing the intro for “I’ll Make Love To You,” the girls lost it and sprinted towards the stage like somebody was chasing them. It was the Boyz II Men version of Beatlemania – just one example of the magic that happened when R&B harmony and the brilliant musicianship of St. Louis Symphony joined forces. I was banking on having a good time on the strength of the orchestral accompaniment for “Water Runs Dry” and “On Bended Knee” alone. But there was life to be had all night long from the moment they graced the stage. Shout out to all the wonderful musicians and IN UNISON director Kevin McBeth, who conducted for the night. In related news, did y’all know that the general population gets all sentimental when they hear “A Song For Mama?” I thought that only black folks knew about the go to “get all the way in your feelings and raw emotional about your mama/grandmama/god mama/play mama” song for Generation X. Don’t you dare judge me. I didn’t know the “Soulfood” soundtrack was a mainstream crossover. And y’all know those “End of the Road” harmonies, don’t y’all? The only messy thing I have to say is that I kept wondering if Wanya would still be able to sing if his hands or neck had a cramp. That arm, finger, face, neck and shoulder choreography that came with every note leads me to say no.
It’s Super Jam eve. That’s right, tomorrow (Friday, June 8) I will be baking under the sun of the Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre for Super Jam 2018 presented by Hot 104.1 FM. Is it me, or are the folks super-duper geeked about the lineup – which includes 21 Savage, Remy Ma, Post Malone and plenty more folks? I know it’s not me. I only have one more day to suffer through it, but I feel like I have to express my frustrations in Partyline so that nobody gets read for dear life to the point where we can’t recover. First, I do not have ANY tickets to Super Jam … not a nary one. I understand that it would be a great graduation gift. I know that Remy Ma is your chick [edited for Partyline]. Yes, I know that Derez DeShon has family roots in St. Louis. Good for you that he is your cousin. But wait a minute – if that’s the case, why you pressing me for tickets instead of him? If you know he would want to see you there, sounds shaky bakey if you have to try to force me into being your ticket plug. There’s no point in asking me, or anybody else but the box office at this point. There I’ve said it. Also, I don’t know who the surprise guest is. I wouldn’t tell you if I did, because it would ruin the surprise. That being said, the folks at Hot 104.1 FM should be over the moon because of the buzz. Folks have grown up going to Super Jam. I’m so glad folks have continued to check for it from the very beginning to right now.
Café Soul’s Trap Soul Paint moves to Troy’s. I have been waiting for weeks to get over to the House of Soul for Café Soul’s presentation of Trap Soul Paint this upcoming Sunday (June 10). Well for those of you who might not know, there has been a venue change. They’ve moved things over to The Gallery By Troy (4519 Olive in the Central West End). I will be in the building to support because I tend to have the time of my life when I partake in things even remotely associated with the Café Soul brand. Trap soul paint sounds especially enticing. You’ll get a chance to sip and socialize as your favorite trap soul selections provide the soundtrack in the background. The party kicks off at 5 p.m. with a mixer. Seating starts at 5:30 and the paint/soul/sip session starts promptly at 6 p.m. This should be fun. Visit https://www.eventbrite. com/e/trap-soul-paint-day-party-tickets-46391686784?aff=eac2 for tickets.
Spoken word meets Shakespeare. I have a cautionary tip for the folks who decide to stop through and see my boy Corey Black bring spoken word to the Shakespeare Festival St. Louis experience. Give yourself at least an hour to find parking. His open mic kicks off at 6:30 p.m., but prepare to miss it if you are not in the vicinity to find a park by 5:30 p.m. I was so excited to get my Poetic Justice flavor a few weeks early that I called myself really doing something by getting to the park by 6 p.m. By the time I find a place to park and finished hiking over the river and through the woods, I had missed the whole doggone thing. I am not joking, and I’m still sad about it. The good news is that he will be back every Sunday at 6:30 p.m. for the run of “Romeo and Juliet” to offer a poetical appetizer to Shakespeare. Since I’m giving advice – please heed it by getting there early – I might as well continue. Y’all should clear your schedule so you can stay for the mainstage show. Even if you don’t “do Shakespeare,” you will love it. I promise. See you in a few days Corey Black.
DJ Kut and DJ Stanfield supported #WearOrange STL presented by Radio One St. Louis, Better Family Life and Crimestoppers Saturday @ Boys
Tee and Keisha enjoyed Corey Black then kicked back to take in Shakespeare Festival St. Louis’ presentation of ‘Romeo and Juliet’ Sunday in Forest Park
Antonio and Dallas made a date night of ‘Romeo and Juliet’ Sunday evening @ Shakespeare Glen
Corey Black was all smiles after kicking off his presentation of Poetry in the Park Sunday in conjunction with Shakespeare Festival St. Louis @ Forest Park
Bishop V Luv and Young Dip were in the building for #WearOrangeSTL Saturday @ Boys and Girls Club of Greater St. Louis
April Lindsey of Radio One St. Louis and Dr. Punch of Washington University @ #WearOrangeSTL Saturday @ Boys and Girls Club of Greater St. Louis
Namibia and Robert were ready for some Shakespeare as the curtain call came for ‘Romeo and Juliet’ @ Forest Park Sunday
Jessica and Kyle captured the vibe of The Corner featuring DJ Nune Monday evening @ The Dark Room
Beauties Mary and Shia delighted in the wonderful weather and scenery Sunday @ Shakespeare Glen in Forest Park
Lamar Harris aka DJ Nune as he got his spin on for The Corner on the patio of The Dark Room Monday Night
100.3 The Beat personalities Jess Live and Osei The Dark Secret showed plenty of love to YouTube sensation turned national recording artist Queen Naija, who was the special guest for Behind The Beat, a live experience that allows fans to get up close and personal with their favorite stars.
print advertising, online advertising, social media advertising, special sections, events, sponsorships, etc.
Full time opportunity, with health benefits. Salary plus commission. High earnings potential.
For information, contact: Kevin Jones, Chief Operating Officer The St. Louis American kjones@stlamerican.com
(Absolutely no phone calls will be accepted)
GALLERY ATTENDANT
Saint Louis Art Museum. Full Time Gallery Attendant. Apply online at slam.org
Big Brothers Big Sisters Job Openings
Do you have a passion for working hard to make a difference in your community?
BBBSEMO has several FULL-TIME and PART-TIME CASE MANAGEMENT positions open that work with adult volunteers, caregivers and youth. Bachelor’s Degree required.
BBBSEMO is an innovative and empowering work environment. Benefits include immediate and 100% coverage on health and dental insurance for full-time employees, flexible work schedule, and opportunities for advancement.
To Apply: Please visit www.bbbsemo.org to view full job descriptions. Then send cover letter, resume, and at least three professional references to HR@bbbsemo.org .
ORGANIZING DIRECTOR
Missouri Health Care for All is seeking an Organizing Director! Visit mohealthcareforall.org for info.
CLIENT SERVICE SPECIALIST
Computer & Customer Service Experience needed. Part-Time hrs. Dental & Vision Benefits, 401k, Competitive Wage, Vacation & Holiday Pay. No prior banking experience necessary. Apply at www.royalbanksofmo.com
COORDINATOR-UNDERWRITING-TECHNICAL
SUPPORT OPERATIONS
Responsible for planning, organizing, documenting and training end users of the policy administration systems, various software applications, re-engineering projects, and continually aiding in the assessment and improvement of all Underwriting system support including testing. Responsible for the preparation of scheduled reports and queries as defined by Underwriting Department Management, as well as, the creation and distribution of ad-hoc reports needed and requested by other department personnel. To apply, please visit: www.safetynational. com and click on the Careers tab.
QUALITYASSURANCE LEAD
This is a senior-level professional position which contributes to the accomplishment of I.S. practices and objectives that will achieve business goals and objectives.AQualityAssurance Lead is responsible for effectively implementing Safety National’s QualityAssurance Lifecycle on the projects to which he or she is assigned. Works alongside technical and project management to ensure high quality system releases. Performs thorough inspection and methodical examination of all CommercialAutomobile, General Liability, Excess and Primary Workers’ Compensation system changes released to the various testing environments for proper operation and freedom from defects. This process will follow all prescribed QualityAssurance rules and testing guidelines. To apply, please visit: www.safetynational.com and click on the Careers tab.
PROGRAM MANAGER
St. Louis ArtWorks seeks applicants for Full Time Program Manager Starting July 18, 2018
St. Louis ArtWorks (SLAW) is a 23-yearold, nonprofit arts organization that provides paid apprenticeships to primarily underserved teens from the St. Louis metropolitan area. The Mission of SLAW is to broaden educational and career opportunities for local youth region through apprenticeships in the arts and through community collaborations.
Responsibilities of Program Manager
The Program Manager reports to the Executive Director and oversees site supervisors, teaching artists, program interns and upkeep/organizing of the ArtWorks studios. The Program Manager is responsible for developing and implementing effective and efficient operational functions of the ArtWorks apprenticeship program.
Reports to Executive Director. Works with staff to establish and maintain good working relationships with community groups, board members, parents/guardians, apprentices, collaborative partners and others to help achieve the goals of SLAW
Responsible for
• All aspects of program including recruiting, hiring and training of youth and artists
Evaluation
• Works with Assistant Director to coordinate implementation of evaluation process
Employment Training & Special Events
• Designs and implements employment training and Life Skills related activities for all programs including securing speakers, logistics, evaluation, and conducting workshops
Knowledge in: Microsoft Excel, Word, Access, Internet, PowerPoint, Must have reliable personal transportation to be able to perform recruitment responsibilities For more information & to apply please send resume & references to Priscilla. block@stlartworks.org
Perform a variety of entry and analytic processes inherent in the underwriting of prospective and current Excess Workers’Compensation business and policy life cycle maintenance thereafter. Work performed adheres to established process procedures, guidelines, and customer service standards set by the organization with flexibility allowed in completion of tasks. To apply, please visit: www.safetynational.com and click on the Careers tab.
NURSES
RN/LPN full time positions at the St. Louis City Family Court Juvenile Division - Includes Full Benefit Package - detailed info at www.stlcitycircuitcourt.com EOE
SEEKING - NORTHWOODS POLICE CHIEF
The candidate for Northwoods Police Chief should be a career professional with at least five years of street patrol and administrative experience combined. He/She is required to provide administrative support to the Mayor and CityAdministrator and guide the development of the PoliceAccreditation process to completion. Aminimum of anAssociate College Degree is also required. The candidate should be able to plan, direct and supervise daily activities, projects and operation of the Police Dept. Salary and essential detailed duties will be discussed during interviews. This position is full time with benefits. Applications should be picked up at the Northwoods Police Dept.4608 Oakridge Blvd.-Northwoods, Missouri 63121. Return completed application w/your resume, Attn: Mayor-Rev. Everett R. Thomas at the address above.
DIRECTOR OF
MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS
The Missouri Historical Society has a position opening for a Director of Marketing and Communications. Visit www.mohistory.org for position details and to apply. An Equal Opportunity Employer
RESOURCE PROTECTION SUPERVISOR-SOLDIERS MEMORIAL
The Missouri Historical Society has a position opening for a Resource Protection Supervisor for the Soldiers Memorial Military Museum. Visit www.mohistory.org for position details and to apply. An Equal Opportunity Employer
REQUEST FOR BIDS
The Land Clearance for Redevelopment Authority of the County of St. Louis (“LCRA”) is soliciting bids from qualified firms for the demolition of certain residential structures in Wellston, Missouri. The work generally consists of asbestos surveys of all structures, abatement of asbestos containing material, demolition of the structures, removal of demolition debris, site clearing and grading. The project will be funded in whole or in part by a Community Development Block Grant under Title 1 of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended. All applicable federal regulations shall be in full force and effect. A MBEparticipation goal of 20% will apply to this project. LCRA will accept sealed bids for the work at 7733 Forsyth Blvd., Suite 2200, Clayton, MO 63105, Attn: Howl Bean II until Thursday, June 28, 2018, at 3:00 PM, at which time and place bids will be publicly opened and read aloud. Bid documents and a complete listing of potential demolition sites are available at www.stlpartnership.com Any questions should be directed to Howl Bean II at (314) 615-7663 or hbean@stlpartnership.com. St. Louis Economic Development Partnership
NOTICE OF AUCTION
The following people are in debt to Gateway Storage Mall of Belleville, Columbia, & Dupo. The contents of their storage unit(s) will be sold at auction to compensate all or part of that debt. Auction will be held on site with Jersey County Auctions on June 21, 2018 at 10:00 am. A cash deposit will be REQUIRED for all winning bids. Units Bel. D03 – Changa Jones, Bel. F02/23 – David Stahl, Bel. A14 – Allen Klingelhoefer, Bel. F22 - Leeah Meeks, Bel. B05 –JaNerra Carson-Slaughter, Bel. B11 – Drew Elbe, Bel. 101 – Cecelie Holmes, Bel. 636 – Daryl Jones (Jules Johansen), Bel. 406 Rachael Hettenhausen, Bel. 638 – Michael Yakich, Bel. 510 – Reginal Rowery, Bel. 614 and 615 – Gwen Lasenby, Bel. 319 – Tameka Lilton, Col. 11 – Jamie Hurst, Col. 30 – Brian Killingsworth, Dupo 85 – Dee Jerashen, Dupo 57 and 92 – Steven Dengler, Dupo 28 –Mark Howard, Dupo 205 - Will Leroy, Dupo 117 & 118 – Kevin Mitchell, Dupo 139 – Aubrey Murden Dupo 65 – Jennifer Goforth, Dupo 70 – Mark Ratterman. For all rules, regulations and bidding process, contact Jersey County Auctions. All other questions, please call 618-421-4022 or mail PO Box 81, Dupo, IL 62239.
LETTING #8671
PEDESTRIAN STREET LIGHTS
Sealed proposals will be received by the Board of Public Service in Room 208 City Hall, 1200 Market Street, St. Louis, Mo. Until 1:45 PM, CT, on June 26, 2018, then publicly opened and read. Plans and Specifications may be examined on the Board of Public Service website http:// www.stl-bps.org/planroom.aspx (BPS On Line Plan Room) and may be purchased directly through the BPS website from INDOX Services at cost plus shipping. No refunds will be made.
A pre-bid conference for all contractors bidding on this project will be held on June 5, 2018 at 11:00 A.M. in Room 305 City Hall.
Bidders shall comply with all applicable City, State and Federal laws (including MBE/WBE policies).
All bidders must regard Federal Executive Order 11246, “Notice of Requirement for Affirmative Action to Ensure Equal Employment Opportunity”, the “Equal Opportunity Clause” and the “Standard Federal Equal Employment Specifications” set forth within and referenced at www.stl-bps.org (Announcements).
St. Louis Treatment Court 22nd Judicial Circuit City of St. Louis, Missouri Request for Proposal RFP-FY18-06
The St. Louis Treatment Court is seeking proposals for the following opportunities to work with participants of the St. Louis Adult Treatment Court and/or Veteran Treatment Court:
• Trauma Specialist
• Substance Abuse Assessment Clinician
A copy of the Request for Proposal can be obtained by writing to: Treatment Court Administrator, Room 526, 1114 Market St., St. Louis, Missouri 63101 or calling 314-589-6702 for a mail out copy. Interested providers may obtain the proposal specifications by accessing www.stlcitycircuitcourt.com on that website click on Drug Court to find the RFP. Proposals should be submitted no later than 4 p.m. on June 27, 2017 in Room 526, 1114 Market St., St. Louis, Missouri 63101.
Public Notice of Single Source Procurement
Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is proposing to procure: Motorola RadioDigital, Analog, and Connect Plus. The District is proposing single source procurement to Electric Controls Company Inc (ECC) for this equipment because ECC is a Motorola Reseller authorized to seller Fixed Data Products in the St Louis area. Any inquiries should be sent to ameyer@stlmsd.com. Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Public Notice of Single Source Procurement
Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is proposing to procure: REPAIR OF #3 TRICKLING FILTER PUMP/ HIDROSTAL/ WEMCO PUMPS.
The District is proposing single source procurement for this equipment because VANDEVANTER ENGINEERING is the only known available source for the equipment. Any inquiries should be sent to gjamison@stlmsd.com.
Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
ST. LOUIS CELEBRITY SENIORS, INC. INVITATION FOR BID FINANCIAL AND/OR VOLUNTEER ASSISTANCE
St. Louis Celebrity Seniors, Inc. is accepting written narrative applications from St. Louis Metropolitan area 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations that seek volunteer services and/or financial assistance for social service, scientific or educational programs for the year 2018/2019. Narratives must not be more than 500 words and must include proof of non-profit status.
Applications accepted June 1 through 30, 2018
St. Louis Celebrity Seniors, Inc. P.O. Box 4113 St. Louis, MO 63136
NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS
CITY OF ST. LOUIS
Public Hearing Notice and Draft Substantial Amendment and 2019 CDBG/HOME Funding Priorities Available for Review and Comment
The City of St. Louis is soliciting comments on two draft documents: (1) the Draft Substantial Amendment to its 2015 – 2019 Consolidated Plan/2017 Annual Action Plan and (2) the Draft 2019 CDBG/HOME Funding Priorities. The Substantial Amendment proposes the reprogramming of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding allocated and unspent in previous funding years. The 2019 Funding Priority document details the types of activities that the City proposes to fund in 2019 with CDBG and HOME Investment Partnership (HOME) funds.
Public Hearing Notice/Public Comment Period
The Community Development Administration (CDA) will conduct three public hearings to solicit public comments and answer questions pertaining to the Substantial Amendment and 2019 CDBG/HOME Funding Priorities:
Wednesday, June 27, 2018
O’Fallon Recreation Center 4343 West Florissant (63115) 6:00pm – 8:00pm
CDA Boardroom 1520 Market Street – Suite 2000 (63103) 2:00pm – 4:00pm
Documents Available for Review
1. The Substantial Amendment to the 2015-2019 Consolidated Plan/2017 Annual Action Plan will be available in draft form for review by any interested citizen on June 15, 2018 at the Central Branch of the St. Louis Public Library located at 1301 Olive Street. The Amendment will also be available for review at CDA, located at 1520 Market Street, Suite 2000. Copies of the amendment may be downloaded from the City of St. Louis website at https://www. stlouis-mo.gov/government/departments/community-development/documents/2018-substantial-amendment-draft.cfm. Written comments will be accepted until 11:00am on July 16, 2018.
2. The 2019 CDBG/HOME Funding Priorities document will be available on June 15, 2018 in draft form for review by any interested citizen at CDA, located at 1520 Market Street, Suite 2000. Copies of the priorities may be downloaded from the City of St. Louis website at https://www.stlouis-mo.gov/government/departments/community-development/documents/2019-funding-priorities.cfm. Written comments will be accepted until 5:00pm on July 2, 2018.
3. The 2019 CDBG/HOME Funding Timeline will be available on June 15, 2018 on the City of St. Louis website at https://www. stlouis-mo.gov/government/departments/community-development/documents/2019-funding-timeline.cfm.
Written Comments
The views of citizens, public agencies, and other interested parties are strongly encouraged. Written comments or suggestions may be addressed to Ms. Alana Green, Executive Director, Community Development Administration, 1520 Market Street, Suite 2000, St. Louis, MO 63103, or via e-mail at GreenA@stlouis-mo.gov.
Other Information
Persons with special needs or accommodations relating to handicapped accessibility or foreign language should contact Ms. Green via email at GreenA@stlouis-mo.gov or by phone at (314) 6573835 or (314) 589-6000 (TDD). Interpreting services are available upon request for persons with hearing disabilities. Interested parties should contact the Office on the Disabled at (314) 622-3686/ voice or (314) 622 3693/TTY.
CDA is an equal opportunity agency (employer). Minority participation is encouraged.
Public Notice of Single Source Procurement
Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is proposing to procure: Kerry Actuator and control panel for the Baden Pump Station. The District is proposing single source procurement to the Kerry Company for this equipment because they are the sole authorized service provider
St. Louis, Inc.
3701 Grandel Square St. Louis, MO 63108
(314) 615-3608
lmiller@urbanleague-stl.org
Pre-Bid Conferences: June 13, 2018 at 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM
Bid Due Date: June 20 at Noon Bid Opening: June 20 at 2:00 PM Funding on behalf of Missouri Department of Economic Development, LIHEAP, Ameren, and Spire Gas.
“ELECTRONIC PLANROOM.” Plans and Specifications are also available for viewing or purchase at Cross Rhodes Reprographics located at 1712 Macklind Avenue, St. Louis MO 63110. All bidders must obtain a set of plans and specifications in order to submit a bid in the name of the entity submitting the bid. The Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Advertisement for:
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
The City of St Louis Department of Health is seeking proposals from attorneys licensed in Missouri to provide hearing services for personnel matters (pre disciplinary and pre-termination reviews), animal control appeals, and administrative fine appeals. Requests for Proposals may be obtained beginning May 22, 2018 from the City of St. Louis Department of Health, Jeanine Arrighi, 1520 Market Street-Suite 4051, St. Louis MO 63103, (314) 657-1507. Proposals may also be downloaded from the City of St. Louis website at http://www.stlouis-mo.gov/ The deadline for submitting proposals is June 19 2018, by 4:00 P.M. at the address listed above. The Department of Health reserves the right to reject any or all responses with or without cause.
THE LAMBERT INTERNATIONAL BOULEVARD BRIDGE OVER COLD WATER CREEK AT ST. LOUIS LAMBERT INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT. Statements of Qualifications due by 5:00 PM CT, June 29, 2018 at Board of Public Service, 1200 Market, Room 301 City Hall, St. Louis, MO 63103. RFQ may be obtained from BPS website www.stl-bps.org, under On Line Plan Room-Plan Room, or call Board of Public Service at 314-622-3535. 25% MBE and 5% WBE participation goals.
Sealed
NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS
NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS
com), or by contacting County Blue Reprographics, Inc., 1449 Strassner Drive, St. Louis, Missouri 63144, (314) 961-3800. DIRECTOR OF PROCUREMENT AND ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES ST. LOUIS, COUNTY
until 02:00 PM on Wednesday, June 20, 2018, at a place designated. Bids will be received only from companies that are pre-qualified by the District’s Engineering Department for: DEEP SEWER CONSTRUCTION – St. Louis County drainlayer’s license required Or TUNNELING / TRENCHLESS Plans and Specifications are available for free electronic download. Please go to MSD’s website and look for a link to “ELECTRONIC PLANROOM.” Plans and Specifications are also available for viewing or purchase at Cross Rhodes Reprographics located at 1712 Macklind Avenue, St. Louis MO 63110. All bidders must obtain a set of plans and specifications in order to submit a bid in the name of the entity submitting the bid. The Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
for Replace Roofs, Academy Dormitory
801 Edwin Street St. Louis, MO. 63103
Due date: June 12 at 2:00 pm
Pre-bid walkthrough: May 29 at 9:00 and June 5 at 9:00 A historic renovation of three buildings (A, B, C). Building A is 6 stories with 31 units and a basement level for underground parking. Building B is a single-story building where the leasing office and bike storage will be located. Building C is also a single-story building that will have 2 additional units. (note that Demo is by owner, Fire Protection, Plumbing, HVAC, and Electrical scopes have been awarded)
Call or email Chris Anderson for the link to the plans and specs at 314-783-8000 ext. 7 or chris@pinnaclecontracting.com
will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, 6/21/2018. For specific project information and ordering plans, go to: http://oa.mo. gov/
practices, SLDC desires to understand the St. Louis area market’s ability to participate in, and benefit from, efficiently deconstructing buildings in a more environmentally sustainable, yet still economically profitable way. SLDC wishes to understand the area’s deconstruction potential in terms of potential market actors, market supply and demand for reused materials, building stock participation viability, profitability, and other potential benefits to current and future stakeholders of demolition work.
Bids will be received until 5:00 PM June 29th, 2018 at St. Louis Development Corporation.Attention Peter Phillips, 1520 Market Street Suite 2000, St. Louis, Missouri 63013. The full invitation, relevant dates, and all other documents related to this opportunity may be downloaded at: https://www. stlouis-mo.gov/government/departments/sldc/rfp-deconstruction-market-research-analysis.cfm
METROPOLITAN ST. LOUIS
SEWER DISTRICT
Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District will receive RFQ’s in the Purchasing Division, 2350 Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63103-2555 until 10:00 a.m. on June 20, 2018 to contract with a company for: NEW 2018 Model Forklifts Specifications and bid forms may be obtained from www.stlmsd.com, click on the “MSD AT WORK” link, (bid opportunities). The bid document will
REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS FOR TAX SALE LEGAL SERVICES
St. Louis Development Corporation (SLDC) is seeking proposals from firms that are qualified to provide legal services associated with the acquisition of properties deeded to the Land Reutilization Authority of the City of St. Louis, Missouri (LRA) as a result of tax foreclosure Sheriff’s sales. The complete RFQ can be viewed online at: www.stlouis-mo.gov/ government/departments/sldc/ procurement.cfm or emailed/faxed by contacting Bonnie Wade, SLDC Law Department at WadeBo@ stlouis-mo.gov or 314-657-3759.
SEALED
BIDS
for Replace Tunnel Utilities, Hearnes Forensic Complex, Fulton, Missouri, Project No. M141705 will be received by FMDC, State of MO, vFor specific project information and ordering plans, go to: http://oa.mo. gov/ facilities
ROOMS
SAINT LOUIS ZOO 2018 LAKESIDE BOILER REPLACEMENTS RFP
The project scope outlined within this project is to remove two water boilers currently being used for domestic hot water, and replace with two PVI High Efficiency water heaters. The work will need to be performed in stages so as not to shut down the food service operation during the replacement. This is a turnkey job. Pro Press fittings are permitted.
MANDATORY PRE-BID MEETING & SITE INSPECTION: On 6/5/2018 at 9:00AM at The Living World building on Government Drive in Forest Park, lower level. Sealed bids marked with project name will be accepted on or before 6/13/2018 at 1:30 PM and opened immediately after in the Facility Management Conference Room. Documents can be found on 5/24/2018 at: https://www.stlzoo.org/about/contact/ vendoropportunities/
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR TRAINING SERVICES
East-West Gateway Council of Governments is seeking a qualified consultant to provide an Urban Staging Area Manager Training Course. Funding for this project will be provided by the U.S. Dept. of Homeland Security. Proposals due 4:00 p.m. June 18, 2018. Late proposals will be returned. Details can be obtained at www.ewgateway.org or by calling 314-421-4220 ext. 208.
Public Notice of Single Source Procurement Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is proposing to procure: ARI Air Release Valves. The District is proposing single source procurement to Core & Main LP. Any inquiries should be sent to dlegrand@stlmsd.com. Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Public Notice of Single Source Procurement Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is proposing to procure: CUES GRANITE NET Software. The District is proposing single source procurement to CUES for this program because CUES is the developer and software maintenance provider as the current CUES program in use by the District, CUES GRANITE XP, is obsolete and being replaced. Any inquiries should be sent to ameyer@stlmsd.com. Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity
Christian Activity Center teaches math skills to ESL youth
Plus,
New Life in Christ awards $23K in scholarships
American staff
Thanks in part to a recent Wells Fargo Gives grant of $10,000, Kindergarten through 5th grade youth of the Christian Activity Center in East St. Louis will have access to degreed teachers, math software/games, and “manipulatives” like flash cards, clocks, etc. Through the Everyday I’m Calculatin’ Math Program, almost 200 youth learn gradelevel math skills (counting, addition, subtraction, multiplication and division) and master advanced applications of these skills (fractions, time, money, etc.) afterschool during the school year and between 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. this summer. The program provides small group and one-to-one instruction to remediate math skills and prevent summer slide in math skills. Additionally, staff works to increase the involvement of parents and caregivers in their child’s math education.
“The Everyday I’m Calculatin’ Math Program helps our kids close the gap between Common Core math expectations and their ability to perform math skills they should be learning in East St. Louis elementary schools,” said Chet Cantrell, executive director.
“Children make decisions regarding their capacities to learn in elementary school –they need math competence and confidence. The Wells Fargo
Through the Everyday I’m Calculatin’ Math Program, almost 200 youth at the Christian Activity Center in East St. Louis learn grade-level math skills and master advanced applications of these skills.
Gives grant supports educator salaries and math software, which in addition to teaching the basics, make math learning fun.”
By increasing math competence and confidence in the center’s youth, the Wells Fargo’s support of the Everyday I’m Calculatin’ Math Program is also helping the Christian Activity Center meet its goal of high school completion and at least two years of post-secondary training or education for East St. Louis youth. For more information, visit https://www.cacesl.org.
New Life in Christ awards scholarships New Life in Christ Interdenominational Church in O’Fallon, Illinois awarded scholarships totaling $23,000 to nine area high school
graduates during its 15th annual Celebration of Education Worship Service on Wednesday, May 30.
The event, which will be held in the church’s newly expanded sanctuary, also recognizes New Life members who are graduating from high school, college and graduate school as well as those transitioning from elementary and middle school.
“As college tuitions continue to rise, parents and students are often burdened with finding financial solutions to cover costs,” said Bishop Geoffrey V. Dudley Sr., New Life in Christ’s senior pastor. “Our congregation appreciates the opportunity to recognize academic excellence while also providing financial assistance for college bound students.”
Nearly 50 students from across the St. Louis region
applied for the scholarships. The nine recipients were chosen based on their high academic achievement and their ability to demonstrate a love for serving others as well as their communities. To date, $246,000 in scholarships has been awarded.
The 2018 New Life in Christ scholarship recipients are:
• Anya Jones, Alton High School, Bishop Geoffrey V. Dudley, Sr. Pastoral Scholarship of Excellence, $5,000, attending University of Kansas
• Emmanuel Brown, SIUE/ East St. Louis Charter School, John H. McCants Hope Scholarship, $5,000, University of Indianapolis
• Hannah Teverbaugh, Belleville Township High School East, Bishop Leamon and Ida Dorothy Dudley Memorial Scholarship, $2,500, Xavier U.
• David Walter, Hazelwood East High School, Minister Sheila Renee Swygert Memorial Scholarship, $2,500, Purdue University
• Jazmine Brown, Althoff Catholic High School, NLICIC Life Changer Scholarship, $2,000, Eastern Illinois U.
• Millenia Wells, Mascoutah High School, NLICIC Life Changer Scholarship, $2,000, attending University of Illinois
• Huey Dunomes, Belleville Township High School East, NLICIC Life Changer Scholarship, $2,000, undecided
• Bailey Conner, Belleville Township High School East, The Chyriell Drain Hill Memorial Scholarship, $1,000, attending University of Alabama, and
• Brittney Glover, Belleville Township High School East, The Chyriell Drain Hill Memorial Scholarship, $1,000, attending Murray State University.
The Message
Ambush Satan
I am remember working with a young man who had been incarcerated for a short while and he, by his testimony, got a lot closer to God during this trial in his life. He says prison is, indeed, the devil’s playground. Due to his attempt to walk with God, he claimed to be under constant attack.
I’ve heard many a minister in my time say there is one sure way to get Satan’s attention and that is to turn your life over to Christ. Your lifestyle is what gives Lucifer access to your world. As long as you engage in the negative side of life, he doesn’t need to spend any time struggling for your soul. Succumbing to life’s trials and temptations is sentence enough to insure that you will die and live void of God’s presence. And life without God is the quintessential definition of hell.
Dealing with all we have to deal with in the physical world makes it easy to sometimes lose sight of the obvious. A life without purpose is a life wandering aimlessly on a highway headed straight to hell. The devil does not have to expend any energy trying to gain access to this kind of a life. He can merely set up a toll booth at hell’s entrance and collect unsuspecting souls on the way by.
Many of us can’t even remember the night before. We just try to deal with the headache of the morning after. Perhaps we should at least try to make the devil sweat just a little bit, put in some work, if he’s to add you to his trophy cabinet. On the other hand, a life dedicated to purpose, anchored in faith, lived with integrity means Satan has his work cut out for him. That makes you a target for attack, as my incarcerated friend described. But it also guarantees your victory.
I’m trying to ambush the devil everyday by appealing to the Lord to allow me to do His will. Satan is coming for anyone who tries to hear and respond to God’s Word. It’s his job.
“Some people are like seed along the path where the Word is sown. As soon as they hear it, Satan comes and takes away the Word that was sown in them.” Mark 4:5. If we know this, what are we doing to arm ourselves against his assault? Remember, Satan is liar. He’s good at what he does. “And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light.” 2 Corinthians 11:14.
As a believer, you have a neon sign that shines brightly in all kingdoms of this world and the next. I just hope and pray that you recognize your next challenge as nothing more than a speck on the windshield of your life, a mere spattered piece of nothing trying to stand in your way to the Promised Land. “For, as I have often told you before, and now say again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach and their glory is their shame.”
