


SSM Health: ‘She (Judy Wilson-Griffin) was a hero in the truest sense’
By Rebecca Rivas
‘This
SSM Health told The American that
“Judy had not been sick for several weeks,” as some other media reported. “She has been out on personal time.”
See NURSE, A6
Judy Wilson-Griffin, an AfricanAmerican nurse who worked at SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital, was the first person in the St. Louis region to succumb to COVID19. St. Louis County Executive Sam Page had identified her only as a St. Louis County woman when he announced her death on Friday, March 20, the day she died. She was the first coronavirus-related death in the county and the region. Page said she had multiple health complications prior to contracting the virus. She was tested earlier that week and diagnosed 48 hours later.
n “Judy was an incredible nurse, educator, leader and person. Her passion and dedication was second to none. She was a hero in the truest sense.”
– SSM Health
worked out in Forest Park on Wednesday, March 25, when the St. Louis region was under Stay at Home orders to stop the spread of COVID-19. The St. Louis resident, who has been cycling for more than 45 years, said he had to get out just to stay relaxed given the pressures of the COVID-19 outbreak.
By Rebecca Rivas Of The St. Louis American
Jazmond “Jazz” Dixon passed away Sunday, March 22 at age 31 due to COVID19, the first novel coronavirus-related death in the City of St. Louis.
Speaking as a representative of the family, Dixon’s cousin Belafae Johnson Jr. told The St. Louis American that she came from a large family with many aunts, uncles and cousins, who are all devastated. Dixon and her mother were “best friends.”
“We need to use Jazmond to really make an imprint in our hearts of the seriousness of this,” Johnson said. “Our health officials are laboring over what to do and what’s possible to help stop the spread. Our family is advocating for people to humble themselves and make decisions for the greater good. We don’t live on a large planet. A few weeks ago, we were hearing about this happen in China, and now this is on our doorstep. This is serious.”
On Tuesday, March 17, Dixon started feeling like she had the flu and was having trouble breathing, so she went to an urgent care clinic, Johnson said. The doctors there felt she needed more care, so she was admitted into a local hospital emergency room the
African jazz great Manu Dibango dies from COVID-19
Manu Dibango, the acclaimed Cameroonian saxophonist whose 1972 hit “Soul Makossa” would later be sampled by some of the biggest names in music – including Michael Jackson –died Tuesday from coronavirus. He was 86. His death was confirmed on the musician’s Facebook page. Dibango was hospitalized in France last week because of COVID-19.
He was born in Cameroon in 1933 and moved to Paris as a teenager.
While in France he learned saxophone and piano. Two decades later he was a staple of the European jazz scene.
He recorded his debut album in 1968. His most famous song “Soul Makossa” was released in 1972 – which would become sampled by Jackson, Kanye West, Will Smith and ATribe Called Quest.
A music icon in his own right, Dibango collaborated with such legends as Art Blakey, Herbie Hancock, Don Cherry, Sly and Robbie, Paul Simon, Peter Gabriel, King Sunny Adé, Youssou N’Dour, Hugh Masekela and Fela Kuti.
The statement announcing his passing said
that the funeral would be a private family event, but suggested a tribute would be scheduled soon.
Fans were also encouraged to send condolences to manu@manudibango.net.
Slim Thug tests positive for coronavirus
In an Instagram video, Houston rapper Slim Thug revealed to his 1.1 million followers that he tested positive for coronavirus.
In a video posted Tuesday, Slim Thug, whose real name is Thomas, explained he may have gotten the virus while out getting something to eat. He assured he took precaution while out in the public.
“No games being played,” Slim Thug said. “As careful as I’ve been self-quarantined and staying home, I might have gotten something to eat or something or did some stuff like that – simple stuff like that, nothing crazy - stayed in my truck, had masks, gloves, everything on. And my test came back positive.”
The rapper said he is in self-quarantine at home.
Slim Thug told Houston ABC affiliate ABC 13 Eyewitness News that he feels fine – but just days before, he had a slight fever and a cough.
“Take it seriously,” Slim Thug said.
“It’s real out here.”
‘Pose’ star learns about boyfriend’s secret life thanks to quarantine
Angelica Ross, who co-starred for two seasons on the FX hit show ‘Pose’ found out that she was the other woman, because of nationwide social distancing in place as a precaution from the corona-
“For those who don’t get it, Queen Angelica found this man and was dating,” the follower said. “She posted on Twitter and rejoiced in excitement. Twitter FBI probably saw the tweet and told Angelica this man had a kid and is engaged.” Ross retweeted the follower and replied with “basically.”
Idris Elba’s wife opens up to Oprah about testing positive for coronavirus
Angelica Ross
After a period of being unable to connect with her man, Ross took to Twitter to tell her followers that he had been located.
“Finally found him and have to distance myself from him,” Ross tweeted beneath an image of the two. “An early test we are committed to passing.”
She then replied to her own tweet revealing why he had been so inaccessible.
“The internet is AMAZING,” Ross said. “I’ve been talking to the mother of his son and fiancée all morning #plottwist.”
After her followers expressed confusion with the tweets, another follower broke things
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Last week actor Idris Elba announced that he tested positive for the COVID19 coronavirus.
In an interview with Oprah Winfrey on Apple TV Sabrina Elba, who was side by side with Idris during his initial announcement now confirms she too, has tested positive.
“I wanted to be with him. That’s the instinct of a wife, you want to go and take care,” Sabrina told Winfrey. “I don’t feel anything that would come to what people would now expect to be a symptom of coronavirus, which is really strange. It might change in the coming weeks, and we’ll keep everyone updated, but it is worrisome that we’re sitting here, two people, and… we’re asymptomatic.”
Sources: Instagram.com, abc13.com, Twitter.com, NPR.org, Rollingstone.com, Apple TV
By Andrea Y. Henderson Of St. Louis Public Radio
Since the spring of 2019, WNBA All-Star Maya Moore has not missed a single one of Missouri state inmate Jonathan Irons’ court hearings. Moore, a two-time Olympic Gold medalist and Minnesota Lynx forward, was among family and friends in a Cole County courtroom when Judge Daniel Green recently overturned Irons’ conviction for lack of evidence.
“[It] was just so satisfying to know that someone who has the power to do something about it actually took that step to do it,” Moore said. “So we were overjoyed, but also still sad because Jonathan is still in prison.”
Irons, who is now 40, has been in prison for 23 years. In 1997, he was arrested for burglary and assault in St. Charles County. The victim was shot in the head.
Irons — only 16 at the time — was tried as an adult. During the trial, the victim said Irons shot him and burglarized his home. The state did not present any physical evidence that would have linked Irons to the shooting or home invasion. Neither Irons’ blood nor his DNA were found on the scene, there were no eyewitnesses to the crime, and his finger and footprints were missing.
The St. Louis native was later found guilty by an all-white jury. He was sentenced to 50 years in prison. Moore, 30, first learned of Irons’ case through her godparents and her great-uncle, who had been working with Irons in a prison ministry. Moore
who are in charge of justice are not just about making the guilty ones pay justice, but exonerating the innocent ones.”
She said her advocacy will continue beyond this case.
“I also want to equip and empower other people to get involved,” she said.
said her godparents were heavily invested in Irons’ life and his case and wanted to teach her about the criminal justice system and how it treats people of color.
The Jefferson City native said she didn’t know anyone who was in prison growing up and she had no idea of any of their struggles.
“When I met Jonathan, I was 17, my eyes were open and my mind was blown to the reality of there are people in prison who shouldn’t be there,” Moore said.
Throughout college and her eightyear career with the Lynx, the four-
time WNBA champion stayed abreast of Irons’ case, and soon he became like family to her.
In January 2019, she announced that she would sit out the basketball season to work on a few personal goals and focus on freeing Irons and establishing his innocence. She did the same thing this season and will also forfeit her chance to play in this year’s Olympic games.
Though Irons’ conviction has been reversed, he is still behind bars at Jefferson City Correctional Facility. Green granted St. Charles County prosecutors 30 days to decide to
retry the case and gave the Missouri Attorney General’s office 15 days to file an appeal.
Attorney General Eric Schmitt’s spokesman said he and his team are reviewing the order from Green and evaluating the office’s next steps.
“Right now, the only thing keeping him from walking out of those doors is the attorney general’s office,” Moore said. “They have to say that they are not going to refute the judge’s ruling. And then the prosecutor’s office in St. Charles County has to also say that they’re not going to prosecute. And so we are just hopeful that those people
“You can pay attention to the values of our prosecutors instead of just only caring about who the president is. You can vote better. You can hold prosecutors accountable. You can care about conviction, integrity units in prosecutors’ offices that help prevent these things from happening. You can educate yourself. You can learn about our past.”
Follow Andrea on Twitter: @ drebjournalist.
Edited for length and reprinted with permission from news.stlpublicradio. org.
The St. Louis American is a mission-driven community news organization.
A recent review on our Facebook clearly expresses the importance of our role: “The stories about us…you give a lot of stories about the community that would never be told by other media.”
Last week we celebrated our 92nd anniversary of uninterrupted service to our community.
More than ever, we are reminded of how critical our community journalism is and how essential our readers, advertisers, program sponsors and supporters are to serving our mission.
In order to continue to serve you during these tough times and into the future, we are forced to make some changes for a limited time.
During this unprecedented health emergency caused by COVID-19, here are some of the temporary changes you will see:
* Eliminated calendar of events section (as no public events are allowed).
* Consolidating our sports section (as sports events have been cancelled).
* Re-engineered distribution system, shifting the majority of our delivery to local grocery stores, where our readers continue to visit regularly (including 62 area Schnucks stores, 64 area Walgreens stores and 11 Dierbergs)
* Dramatically expanding our content on stlamerican.com and our other social media platforms, with daily updates throughout the day, 7 days per week
In the meantime, please take care of yourself and your loved ones. We are here and we will get through these difficult times together. Let’s keep each other in our thoughts and prayers.
When it is finally safe to celebrate what was scheduled as the 2020 Salute to Excellence in Healthcare with our community, it would be proper to dedicate the event in memory of Judy Wilson-Griffin. An African-American nurse at SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital, she was the first person in the St. Louis metropolitan area to succumb to the COVID-19 pandemic. Of course, it is in the interest of social distancing to slow and ultimately halt the spread of the novel coronavirus that we postponed this year’s health salute, as countless community events are being canceled.
We mourn this healthcare worker and pray for the healing of her family. While other news media reported Judy’s name before we did (she was not named in the initial public announcement of the region’s first official death from COVID-19), we believe we may have been the first to post her photograph. We make this point not as some gruesome point-keeping about journalistic firsts regarding the tragic loss of a human life, but rather to discuss the way the community is responding to this crisis. The fact of Judy’s death before we knew her name or shared her photograph was passed over in relative silence by the readers of our website. Once her photograph was included, everyone could see that the crisis’ first victim was an African-American woman – someone who looks like any of us and our friends, sisters, wives, mothers, grandmothers. Only then did the story become something a great many people wanted to share. More than 1 million people have now read her story on stlamerican.com.
This is very important. Last week in our print edition, we reported a story with arguably more widespread and long-term impact than the region’s first tragic death from the pandemic. We reported the first evidence of community spread of the virus. Community spread means the infection could not be traced to someone traveling to another region or coming into contact with someone else known to be infected, but rather could have come from anyone or anywhere in the local community. It’s community spread that makes a pandemic, and from the first evidence of community spread we should know that we are in for the fight of our lives that had been predicted. Our community spread story pointed out that the local man coping with the disease who received it from some unknown local source is African-American. We knew his name and had a photograph of him and his wife because they had provided them to us as a trusted media source. We had every right and permission to publish their names and photograph. However, before we did so we had a conversation with them point-
ing out that using their names and photograph would have tremendous personal impact. It would credit them for righteously pushing for a better public response to the pandemic. However, they should also expect responses that would be potentially damaging to their family – including ostracism from neighbors and broadcast news teams camped at their doorstep. They decided to withdraw permission to use their names and photograph.
As we expected, that story had less impact in the community than it deserved because there was no name or face to the story. It was being able to use Judy’s photograph and her name –after all, she is now far beyond and above any harassment or suffering here on Earth – that showed our community in very obvious ways that this is a disease that can sicken and kill someone who looks just like us. As the family in our community spread story described themselves, they are ordinary working people who live unremarkable local lives. Tragically, the first COVID-19 death in the City of St. Louis, Jazmond “Jazz” Dixon, only 31 years old, was another African American who contracted the disease locally.
In the interest of community impact and, ultimately, community health, we did identify the couple dealing with community spread as African-American. One thoughtful reader wrote to us asking why we specified their race. He said, in essence, don’t we have enough reasons to be feared and discriminated against without specifying black people as carriers of this terrible disease? We explained to him our intention of driving home to everyone that this disease can happen to anyone, and it is absolutely essential for the health of all of us that we all follow the simple (yet challenging) directions for limiting community spread. After discussing this matter with his friends on social media, where most of us are living even more of our lives now while we observe social distancing, this reader wrote back that he understood our decision and supported it.
This is a tremendously difficult time to practice community journalism, and this is not the last time we will be called upon to balance the negative impact on individual people versus the proactive, positive impact on our community as a whole. We only ask that our community continue to read our work and respond to our coverage and help to guide us in the responsible practice of community journalism. The only reason we do this difficult work is to empower and protect our community; we desperately want to help you survive and thrive.
As I See It - A Forum for Community Issues
By Richard OmoniyiShoyoola
For The St. Louis American
The new coronavirus presents an opportunity for Americans to reconsider what it means to be part of a sick society. The virus’ spread is hastened by systemic poverty, as potentially expensive treatments, no national sick leave guarantee, and school closures disproportionately affect lowerincome communities.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who famously called systemic poverty one of the three evils of our society, preached in 1968 at Mason Temple church in Memphis, Tennessee: “The nation is sick. Trouble is in the land; confusion all around.” How right he was. The virus’ indiscriminate spread reveals much about the quality of our global systems of representation. Which countries have the best pandemic response plans and sick leave policies—and which don’t? What are the limits of antigovernment narratives about how political leaders should intervene to address widespread social and economic threats? What are the powers of national and state governments to mitigate the harms caused by the viral outbreaks, which are made worse by systemic poverty? Compare the Trump administration’s bumbling response to this pandemic, littered with backtracking and inaccuracies about travel bans, waived treatment costs, and the availability of testing kits, to the way that South Korea has handled the virus, with estimates that tens of thousands of South Koreans are tested daily for free at emergency drive-through health
centers.
Compare the widely reported absence of a national sick leave policy in the United States, to the pre-existing statutory sick pay in the United Kingdom.
The U.K.’s policy, enacted in 1992, kicks in if a worker has been off work for four days and lasts for up to 28 weeks. As I write, both members of Congress and the U.K.’s Parliament are proposing new sick pay legislation in response to the outbreak, but while the United States’ policy is starting from scratch and facing legislative pushback, the U.K. is building upon a pre-existing measure, having proactively considered the needs of sick workers long before a global emergency arose. Just a few weeks ago, there was much dismissive and fearful rhetoric over massive government intervention under a potential Bernie Sanders presidency. Now powerful institutions are introducing sweeping measures ranging from the Fed issuing $1.5 trillion in short-term loans for financial firms, to the executive branch announcing $50 billion in emergency funding for states fighting the virus, waived coronavirus testing costs, and waived student loan interest payments.
Amidst the chaos, the virus serves as a showcase of the substantial resources for relief and aid that U.S. government
By Pastor B.T. Rice
For The St. Louis American
The 2020 U.S. Census began collecting information on March 12, and it is important that everyone complete their survey. The Census, which only happens every 10 years, counts every adult and child living in our country. It helps our government figure out how much money each state gets for important programs, and determines each state’s representation in Congress. If we aren’t all counted in 2020, Missouri will be shortchanged for the next decade. For every person that is not counted, Missouri will lose $1,300 in federal dollars every year. Those are funds that we won’t get for our roads and bridges, hospitals, and schools. When we respond to the Census, Missouri gets more funding for safety net programs like Medicaid, SNAP (food stamps) and the school lunch program; programs for seniors like Medicare Part B and Medicaid long-term care services; and programs that support our children and families like
WIC and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
The Census is also our chance to make our voices heard. In 2010, Missouri lost a seat in Congress because not everyone was counted. If we don’t respond, we risk losing additional representation in Congress, and we know that 2020 and the years that follow will be an important time to make sure our community is represented. It’s easy to complete the 2020 Census. You may have already received instructions in the mail from the U.S. Census Bureau. Even if you haven’t, you can respond at my2020census.gov or call toll-free at 844.330.2020.
officials have available, but too often does a poor job of providing. It also highlights the wrongheadedness of conservative leaders who’ve spent years actively fighting to weaken key government initiatives, such as the administration’s recent decisions to shut down the CDC Pandemic Response Team and roll back SNAP benefits and to propose massive funding cuts to the Centers for Disease Control, the National Institute of Health, and the World Health Organization. This is akin to somebody throwing out unexpired medicine because they’re not sick.
Though it will likely depress voter turnout and delay elections, the virus has irrevocably thrust policies like paid sick leave for all workers, less stringent social service benefits, and more compassionate student loan policies beyond the realm of mere popularity. These policies are a national imperative. Although partisan disputes will continue, dysfunction must give way to long-overdue policy change.
As systemic poverty hastens the spread of COVID-19, it is no longer an abstract social ill, but a literal one. But as Dr. King continued in his speech before the Memphis congregation, “But I know, somehow, that only when it is dark enough can you see the stars.”
Richard Omoniyi-Shoyoola is a graduate of the University of Chicago with a B.A. in political science. He has a passion for political advocacy and public service and lives on the South Side of Chicago. He can be reached at romoniyishoyoola@gmail.com.
The Census asks nine simple questions about the people living in your households. The Census will not ask for your income, political party, or citizenship status. It is available in many languages, including Spanish, French, Vietnamese, Chinese and Arabic. Your information is secure - it is illegal for the Census Bureau to share your information with any other government agencies, courts or private companies. Many of you are being negatively impacted by the COVID-19 emergency. While you are social distancing at home, you can easily complete the 2020 Census. Some faceto-face phases of the Census may be delayed because of the emergency, but information is still being collected online and over the phone. When we all respond, hospitals and health care centers get the funding they need to care for all Missourians. Census data is also used for monitoring the spread of infectious diseases. I urge you all to respond today at my2020census.gov or 844-330-2020. Make sure your voice is counted!
The COVID-19 pandemic, while devastating, presents the St. Louis region with an opportunity to obtain an understanding of the comprehensive nature of schools within impoverished black neighborhoods. Under ideal (and affluent) circumstances, schools are institutions centered around reading, writing and arithmetic whose existence has no bearing on the bellies of their students.
Yet in poor neighborhoods, schools provide other vital services, such as consistent, warm meals for students who may not have food in their homes; consistent, warm shelter during the winter months for students whose families may not be able to afford to pay to heat their homes; consistent electricity for students who may not be privy to such privileges at home; and consistent and easy access to caring adults.
Knowing the dire financial state of the families of many of its students, how then can SLPS continue to justify closing schools throughout black neighborhoods? I applaud the organizations and individuals who have stepped up to assuage the hunger of children who, in absence of school attendance, would literally miss meals, yet we must remember that such outreach is only intended to be temporary. Shuttering schools in low-income areas not only impacts education, but it snatches much-needed services from the surroundings and sustenance from the stomachs of poor black kids.
COVID-19 has unmasked the unsanitized truth of how quickly SLPS students can be met with hunger. Have we become immune to their cries?
Arthurine Harris St.
Louis
The League of Women Voters of Missouri believes our public officials must uphold the rights of all voters while simultaneously safeguarding the health and safety of the American people during the COVID-19 crisis. In Missouri, we can uphold voters’ rights by immediately providing for no-excuse absentee voting in upcoming elections. Missouri is one of just 11 states that require an excuse to request an absentee ballot and a notarized signature for the completed ballot.
The League of Missouri encourages elected officials
to add this pandemic to the acceptable reasons to request an absentee ballot and to waive the notarized signature required on the mailed ballots. In the current crisis, it’s urgent that voters be able to vote without jeopardizing themselves and their community. The deadline to request an absentee ballot from your local election authority is May 20 for the municipal elections that will now be held on June 2.
Proposed Missouri Senate Bill 681 would make these changes to current election law and expand early voting opportunities, but it requires both House and Senate action to become law. In the meantime, elected officials should find a way to allow more voters to cast absentee ballots as an immediate response to the ongoing pandemic.
Evelyn Maddox, president League of Women Voters of Missouri, Kansas City
Surviving the coronavirus
School closings, sports event cancellations, food hoarding: We live in a new coronavirusinduced world. Yet some personal health facts remain unchanged.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offer good advice for prevent-
Pastor B.T. Rice is pastor at New Horizon Christian Church.
ing community spread and personal infection: apply social distancing, sanitize surfaces, wash your hands, don’t touch your face. But, there’s more. Does anyone wonder why uncounted numbers of infected people develop no symptoms and only 20 percent of symptomatic people require hospitalization? It’s because they have an effective immune system able to fight off the virus. But the CDC does not talk about that, perhaps for fear of offending powerful animal food industries.
Fortunately, good advice on boosting our immune system is readily available from trusted sources like WebMD and Healthline. And the advice is always the same:
• Increase consumption of fruits and vegetables, including citrus fruits and leafy greens
• Refrain from dairy, other fatty animal products, and sugarladen foods
• Maintain daily exercise of 30-60 minutes
• Minimize your stress level and get adequate sleep.
This advice works great for all other nasty bugs as well.
Shem Pinter St. Louis
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville STEM Center Research Fellow Henriette Burns coordinated a Women in STEM event March 15 at the Christian Activities Center in East St. Louis. An electrophysics engineer, clinical pharmacist, statistical geneticist and STEM program coordinator shared personal experience and advice on overcoming challenges, believing in oneself and acting as a leader to an audience of girls ages 10-11. “It is important, especially for girls of color, to see what they can be and how women of all colors struggle and overcome,” Burns said. Female influencers in STEM fields from the St. Louis area who are interested in participating in future events may contact Burns at hburns@siue.edu.
All Missouri municipal elections previously scheduled for April 7 are postponed to June 2, Governor Mike Parson ordered after declaring a state of emergency in response to COVID-19 and a request from Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft.
Ballots already printed for the April 7 election may be used at the postponed date of June 2. Voters who have attained the age of 18 by April 7 will be allowed to cast a ballot. The closing date to register to vote in this election remains March 11. The deadline for filing as a write-in candidate for office remains March 27 at 5 p.m. The deadline to apply for an absentee ballot shall be May 20. In-person absentee ballots may be cast until 5 p.m. on June 1. Military and overseas voters must request a ballot from an election authority by 5 p.m. on May 29, and the deadline for local election authorities to make ballots available to such voters is April 18. Military and overseas ballots must be received by the election authority by June 5.
Missouri State Parks will temporarily close visitor centers, park offices and site offices to walk-in foot traffic through April 30. This measure is to protect visitors and staff from coronavirus (COVID-19) concerns based on the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.
Missouri state parks remain open to the public including all day-use areas, lodging, campgrounds, boat ramps and trails. Missouri State Parks staff will be available on-site or by phone to answer questions. Signs posted on the door will direct visitors to restrooms and other services and provide a phone number for visitors to contact staff. For more information, visit mostateparks. com.
By Miranda Avant-Elliott For The St. Louis American
Many Missouri public school districts lack an education, technology, or emergency plan for a health crisis such as the one we are currently experiencing with COVID-19. This lack of planning often impacts minority children, children with disabilities, and families living in poverty the worst.
Districts across St. Louis city and county have staggered their decisions to close schools and have decided on different dates for staff and students to return to school. In addition to these decisions, districts have varied on their approach to access food and education. With education being of utmost importance, districts are faced with barriers resulting from a lack of technology.
Recently, district leaders have published varying schedules to feed children, some of which are great while others create barriers. Districts like Hazelwood School District will have drop-off locations which place resources closest to families without transportation. Other districts have decided on food stations at their local schools. Unfortunately, with the absence of the traditional neighborhood school, districts with plans that offer meals at specific school sites will force many families to seek transportation to reach resources.
The technology crisis has been the greatest educational issue exposed during this pandemic. Few districts were prepared to offer online instruction and provide technology resources to youth and families. Some districts that are prepared for this service have not properly assessed their families’ needs to determine who lacks internet access. Additionally, many teachers lack training for online instruction nor do they have materials readily available to educate children from their homes.
To supplement this lack of technology, local districts are proposing to offer learning packets. Unfortunately, this approach abandons the instructional component of learning and does not provide teachers with a means to receive materials back to grade or provide timely feedback.
Our nation’s COVID-19 health crisis is exposing inequalities in education particularly in urban education and should further spark reform conversations and legislation. We as a community must come together with a plan to improve our educational system and continue to support learning for our youth.
Missouri leaders need to begin a think tank to work through this crisis and develop a more viable and sustainable educational plan to ensure our youth continue to learn.
Districts should arrange for students to grab food from their bus stops during their regular pick-up times and for walkers collaborate with local agencies to set-up stations for food pick-up or make their local school site the pickup location.
Districts with an online platform should purchase additional licenses and sign children up for classes. They should set up a help desk line for families who need mobile devices to access courses. They should plan through community partnerships to get families technology access. Teachers should be on call during normal work hours to assist with online classes or other instructional supports.
District leaders need to update their communication, technology, and school improvement plans with quality community input to avoid any future pitfalls.
Parents should go online and access free learning materials based on their students’ grade level or the high school courses students are currently enrolled in at their local high school.
Miranda Avant-Elliott is an educator and Ward 4 alderwoman of Bellefontaine Neighbors.
Continued from A1
“Judy Wilson-Griffin was a beloved member of our family. Our hearts break for her family and friends and we will keep them in our prayers as we cope with the loss of our cherished colleague and friend,” SSM Health said in a statement.
“One of our physicians put it best: ‘Judy was an incredible nurse, educator, leader and person. Her passion and dedication was second to none. She was a hero in the truest sense.’”
Page said that public health officials do not know if she had traveled. One public health official said they are left with
the assumption that it was “other acquired.” That may mean the woman caught the virus from within the community.
“That is the expectation that we expected to happen throughout St. Louis County,” the official said, “and we do believe that time is here.”
Officials said they couldn’t confirm that it was “community spread.” As events continued to unfold and the number of positive cases mounted, however, there was little doubt that the virus is spreading in the community.
The day that Stay at Home Orders to prevent the spread of COVID-19 went into effect in St. Louis County and city, the county reported more than 30 new cases two days in a
row. The county reported 35 new positive cases on Monday, March 23. The day before, the county reported its largest number of new cases on one day to date – 38.
There were 119 positive cases in the county as of Wednesday, March 25. The City of St. Louis had reported 53 positive cases and one death as of Wednesday. St. Charles County, where the county executive has not issued a Stay at Home order, had reported 11 positive cases and 1 death as of Tuesday. On Wednesday, St. Charles County announced an epidemiological investigation of three positive COVID-19 cases from the Frontier Health & Rehabilitation in St. Charles. Two residents are hospitalized, and one has been quarantined.
Thinking about getting a degree but worried about the cost? You’re not alone. Many people considering school for undergraduate or graduate programs worry about finances. Unless you’re able to score a full ride or have the ability to self-pay, you’ll likely need to look at a range of financial assistance: scholarships, state or federal programs and even programs through a current employer. Here are some helpful tips to funding your degree:
Start Early Before you seek financial assistance, there are a few things to prepare. First, consider the schools, programs and specialty areas that interest you. Then, begin gathering the documentation and information you will need to not only apply for those schools but also for scholarships and financial aid. You can get ahead by writing a personal statement or essay and collecting and verifying references, as those are required for most scholarships. Applications for financial assistance have strict deadlines, and the process can be lengthy. Preparation is essential to get them out the door on time.
Apply for Scholarships
When it comes to scholarships, consider applying for multiple opportunities to cover your costs. Even a $200 award could help cover expenses like textbooks. You can find scholarships through professional organizations, local community organizations and even the schools themselves. These categories can help you in your search:
SPECIALTIES
If you know that you’d like to go into a specific field or profession, look for scholarships offered by related professional organizations or companies.
MINORITY GROUPS
Scholarships are often available to students from minority groups who are underrepresented in certain fields.
NON-TRADITIONAL STUDENTS
Students who attend school later in life or as
a working parent may be eligible to apply for scholarships geared toward non-traditional students.
VETERANS & PUBLIC SERVANTS
If you or members of your family served in the military or as police or firefighters, you could be eligible to apply for certain scholarships.
SCHOOL-SPECIFIC In addition to the above categories, don’t forget to look for scholarships at the schools you’d like to attend. Many offer their own scholarships to make education affordable and attainable for students.
Look Into Financial Aid If you’re new to financial aid, learn more about the different types available, including state and nonprofit programs, and complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form at StudentAid.gov. Once you’ve applied to a school, you can reach out to their financial aid office for more specific guidance and advice.
With thousands of scholarships and funding programs available, it can feel overwhelming to find and apply for the right ones for you. The sooner you get started — and the more you prepare ahead of time — the better your experience will be and the closer you will be to making your education a reality.
If you’re considering a career in nursing, Goldfarb School of Nursing at Barnes-Jewish College offers an array of nursing scholarships, and their dedicated financial aid counselors will help you navigate the complexities of financial assistance.
The county reported its first teenager with COVID-19 and nine new cases in their twenties on Sunday. There is now little demographic or other additional information being reported on new cases in the county or city.
“Due to the volume of results now available, the ability to provide data on each positive case has diminished,” the county reported on Monday. “It is unlikely that we will be able to provide age ranges for those testing positive for COVID-19 on a daily basis with a short turnaround.”
The county said that testing facilities are located in North, South, West, and Central St. Louis County and said it will “work with testing partners to ensure that testing services are
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tise. While we commiserate with their decisions and wish them a speedy return to print publication, our first response is to cut costs by printing fewer pages rather than to suspend print publication. Because many businesses, churches, schools, and retailers are closed, we have also had to shift our print distribution. So, that means, while you may not be able to pick up The American at your usual location, we have dramatically increased our delivery to area grocery stores, pharmacies and other businesses that do remain open and where our readers continue to visit regularly.
The St. Louis American is now available at 62 area Schnucks stores, 64 area Walgreens stores, and 11 area Dierbergs stores.
We do ask our readers who find this explanation in print to share this information with those in your social network. We expect that everyone knows by now that our newspaper content, archive and much more are available online at www.stlamerican.
available to the uninsured.” Anyone experiencing symptoms such as fever, shortness of breath, and coughing should call the county testing hotline at (314) 615-2660. Many individuals in the county and city report difficulty being tested because they don’t meet all of the criteria. There is a nationwide shortage of test kits. Page said that the testing requirements at all locations are still restricted to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidelines, which are that a person must have a fever, have traveled to a high-risk location or have been exposed to a person with COVID-19.
“There are no words that can heal the pain of a loved
com. The E-edition of our print newspaper is available at no cost online. Also, we expect that most people know we post our content and other informative and entertaining content on social media: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube. The St. Louis American is easily found on all of these media platforms by searching for our name.
However, we know that not everyone has ready access to the internet in the homes where they have been ordered to remain. The valuable community institutions that offer free access to the internet, such as public libraries, are closed to them. The friends whose internet access they might borrow are advised, for all of our health, to suspend the practice of having friends over to the house.
We also know that many of our readers do not have homes or are ordered by a court to remain locked up in detention. These individuals cannot stay at home because they have no home or because a court has ordered them to stay behind bars. We will be reporting on these distressing situations and demanding that the authorities act to mitigate the suffering of the unhoused and incarcerated
one’s death. We are quickly seeing the toll that the coronavirus is taking on so many families’ lives,” Page said. “We are in this together, and it is compassion for each other that will get us through this. As one community, we will find hope.”
Those with general questions regarding COVID-19 in the county should call (877) 435-8411 or visit www.stlcorona.com. City residents may reach the City of St. Louis Department of Health at 314-657-1499 (seven days a week, 8 a.m.-10 p.m. or email health@stlouis-mo.gov. The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services hotline can be reached at (877) 435-8411.
during this unprecedented time of social upheaval.
Readers of our online publication may notice a new addition to the ends of our online stories: “The St. Louis American is a black-owned, mission-driven news organization. We use the tools of journalism to inform, educate, inspire, empower and defend the black community in the St. Louis region.” While this statement is as old as this newspaper, the need to proclaim it is new. As we noticed during the Ferguson unrest, many new readers find us during times of unrest and upheaval. Since we practice journalism according to the same industry standards as any professional news organization, the way we focus on race and prioritize racial issues in our coverage sometimes needs some explaining to new readers. None of us knows what the future holds – at any time, but especially at this time. But we do know one thing. For absolutely as long as we can continue to operate as a viable business, we will use the tools of journalism to inform, educate, inspire, empower and defend the black community in the St. Louis region.
By Rebecca Rivas Of The St. Louis American
The St. Louis County Council approved $1.5 million in COVID-19 response funding to protect first responders, pay for testing costs for the uninsured and for medical supplies, at the Tuesday, March 24 council meeting.
“This emergency appropriation is critical, as the risks
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be provided while supplies last.
The preferred pick up method is drive-through. Those who cannot drive must practice social distancing, meaning keep a distance of about 6 feet from other people.
Meals are provided on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Highland Elementary, 174 Shepley Dr. (9:30-10:30 a.m.), Central Middle School, 9800 Patricia Barkalow (11 a.m.noon) and at Lemasters Elementary School, 1825 Crown Point Dr. (12:30-1:30 p.m.).
Meals are provided on Wednesdays and Fridays at Glasgow Elementary School, 10560 Renfrew Dr. (9:30-10:30 a.m.), Meadows Elementary School, 9801 Edgefield Dr. (11 a.m.-noon) and at Westview Middle School, 1950 Nemnich (12:301:30 p.m.).
This schedule will not interfere with the district’s normal bi-weekly food distribution events.
For more information, visit www.rgsdmo.org.
Normandy has free meals and laptops
The Normandy Schools
Continued from A1 same day. By Thursday, she was on a ventilator, and she passed away on Sunday evening. Her family is not aware of any major health issues that could have contributed to COVID-19 being her cause of death.
Dixon had not traveled recently. She could have caught the virus anywhere between family functions, work or social gatherings, Johnson said.
“That’s what makes it so unnerving,” Johnson said. “That’s why we wanted to get out and share her story and give out the most accurate information as we can.”
Dixon was a biomedical services employee at the American Red Cross Blood Center on Lindell Avenue, who did not come into contact with donors or other members of the public as part of her daily job duties, according to a statement from the American Red Cross.
posed to the community by COVID-19 are too significant to wait for other funding sources,” St. Louis County Executive Sam Page wrote in a March 20 letter to the council. Page requested $1 million to help the county’s public health department respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. That includes $430,000 for testing supplies and protective equipment for healthcare workers.
The request also includes $200,000 for the Regional Health Commission to administer COVID-19 testing for uninsured residents, and $50,000 for the United Way’s 211 24/7 call center. The remaining amount will go towards additional staff to conduct medical screenings, contact tracing, return phone calls and contact monitoring, according to a letter from the health department.
Page also requested $500,000 from the St. Louis County Emergency Fund for the police department for personal protective equipment.
In an interview with The St. Louis American, Page said that the county has been working on its pandemic response for two months.
“I put together a technical advisory committee to guide me through this crisis,” Page
said. The committee includes health experts, lawyers and a racial-equity consultant, among others. The county has been sharing the advice developed through this team with surrounding counties, in order to best coordinate regional efforts, Page said.
The dramatic increase in the city’s and county’s COVID-19 cases over the March 21-22
Collaborative is distributing to-go breakfasts and lunches for students. Meals are being dropped off with students and families at bus stops through-
Her LinkedIn profile states that she was an equipment systems technician, who “managed the computerized maintenance management system.”
“Our hearts and greatest sympathies go out to the family and friends of this employee during this difficult time,” the American Red Cross said in a statement.
One other employee who worked in the same building also tested positive for the virus, the St. Louis PostDispatch reported, and another staff member is presumed to be positive through a medical assessment but has not been tested.
The American Red Cross stated that there is no known exposure risk to donors who have visited the Lindell center.
“We want to emphasize that donating blood is a safe process and that Red Cross staff already adhere to the highest standards of safety and infection control,” the American Red Cross stated.
Dixon’s death is further evidence that COVID-19 is now
out the district beginning at 10 a.m. Meals also are available at drive-through pick-up locations at each school (except CASA) between the hours of 11 a.m.
community spread, meaning that it is being contracted from others in the area rather than being strictly travel-related, said Dr. Fredrick Echols, director of the city’s health department.
“There’s been rumors and myths circulating in the community,” Echols said. “One of those myths is that young people can’t get it. This case is evidence that young people can get it and that it can cause death.”
As of Tuesday, March 24 the city had reported 37 cases of COVID-19.
As of March 23, all city and county residents have been ordered to stay at home until April 22. The order means that everyone in the city and the county — including incorporated and unincorporated areas — must stay home, except for making essential trips or outdoor recreation. Everyone must abide by social distancing guidelines at all times, including staying six feet from other people outside of their households.
and 12:30 p.m.
Also, families who do not have computers at home may check out district Chromebooks (one per family) to support
It also means that all county businesses and city businesses are required to cease all activities, except for “minimum basic operations” and working from home. The order restricts travel to things like going to work at an “essential business,” to buy food, to care for other people, and to get learning materials or meals from schools.
remote learning. Pick-up times are 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Wednesday, March 25 and 2 p.m. - 5 p.m. Thursday, March 26 at Lucas Crossing School
The goal is to stop the spread of the disease, St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson said, and to prevent other deaths.
Krewson said, “On behalf of myself, my team, all of us here in the city, I send my deepest condolences and sympathy to this individual’s family, friends and loved ones.”
Dixon was a graduate of Harris-Stowe State University and earned a master’s degree from Lindenwood University in business administration. She also was a 2007 graduate of Jennings High School.
“Our hearts are broken for the loss of one of our warriors,”
weekend only confirmed that leaders made the right decision in ordering all residents to “stay at home” — orders that went into effect on March 23, he said.
As of March 25, the county had 119 positive cases. When Page announced the Stay at Home order on March 21, there were 17 cases. However, there are likely more, Page stated in a dire letter to the council.
Complex, 7837 Natural Bridge Rd.
There is a $25 deposit required for devices. Devices must be picked up by enrolling parents/guardians with proper identification. For the device pickups, parents will remain in the car and the devices will be brought to the car. Though the current order calls for public schools in the region to close through Wednesday, April 22, districts also are preparing for a longer interruption of education in classrooms.
Normandy Schools
Collaborative Superintendent
Charles Pearson told St. Louis Public Radio that his district is in phase one right now, getting kids set up to learn online for the next three weeks. They are also planning for a phase two, when distance learning is a sustained reality.
Another superintendent who spoke to St. Louis Public Radio on the condition of anonymity, citing a desire to not speak out of line with other school leaders in the region, said, “I don’t think there’s any chance of kids coming back to school. I think we’re done for the semester.” For more information, visit www.normandysc.org.
Last week we reported on remote-learning meal plans for other area districts, including St. Louis Public Schools. The SLPS meal schedule is available at www.slps.org/meals.
said Art McCoy, superintendent of the Jennings School District. “She was a beautiful young lady who stayed connected to her teachers. We are prayerful, and we will get through this but we have to make sure we take care of each other in this critical time.” The City of St. Louis Department of Health is available 8 a.m.-10 p.m. seven days a week at 314-657-1499 or health@stlouis-mo.gov. Visit https://tinyurl.com/STLCOVID19.
On Thursday, March 19 – six weeks before the previously announced retirement of St. Louis County Police Chief Jon Belmar – the Board of Police Commissioners announced his replacement. It will not be the county’s first black police chief, as many in the community pushed for (and more than one highly qualified black candidate wanted the job). However, a trail will be blazed: Lieutenant Colonel Mary Barton will become the first woman to serve as the county’s top cop. Barton has commanded the North County Precinct and was recently assigned to the West County Precinct. She joined the department in October 1978 and has held numerous positions, including patrol (officer and supervisor), Bureau of Drug Enforcement detective, Bureau of Special Investigations detective, Bureau of Communications supervisor, Patrol lieutenant, and bureau commander in Staff Services, Security Services, and Logistical Support. Barton was praised by another trailblazer: the first person who identifies as “gender queer” to serve on a local police board (or in any other official capacity in Missouri that we know of). Dr. Laurie Punch, a surgeon and community advocate appointed recently by St. Louis County Executive Sam Page, said in a statement, “Lieutenant Colonel Barton is an experienced leader with a clear vision of an equitable future for both the department and the community we serve.”
for the entirety of its existence – but also gender equity (one would hope Barton could cover that base) and sexual orientation. Sexual orientation has to be a primary issue, given the $20 million awarded by a jury to Sergeant Keith Wildhaber in his discrimination suit.
Wildhaber, who has since been promoted to lieutenant (funny how that worked), was discriminated against in the department for being gay. Belmar, who reportedly was considering retirement before the damning testimony about his leadership in Wildhaber’s trial, had little choice but to spend more time with his family after the jury’s decision.
The Wildhaber case makes the new chief’s sexual orientation a relevant issue. A spokesman for the department said that Barton is married to a man.
Relevant to the Wildhaber fiasco, Barton has instructed classes at the County and Municipal Police Academy in Cultural Diversity, Interpersonal Communications, and Workplace Survival. If police leadership and rank-and-file had a better grasp of those subjects, Wildhaber would have been promoted to lieutenant without filing a lawsuit and Belmar’s retirement would have been a little less interesting.
guys with Belmar and Stenger, who is currently a confessed felon and federal inmate in no position to discriminate against anyone. Of course, E.S.O.P. pushed for a qualified black police chief; though “advocates for racial and gender equity,” its emphasis has been on racial equity.
The short list of candidates for Belmar’s successor included two respected black police leaders, Deputy Chief Kenneth Gregory and Lieutenant Colonel Troy Doyle. The sting to Page can be best explained as payback for the police board that he reshaped after the Wildhaber fall-out overlooking two qualified black candidates in replacing Belmar.
Former state Representative Betty L. Thompson sent a statement to The American expressing what many black officials and citizens are thinking.
“While it is an honor to make history by having our first female chief of police, we should consider factors other than gender. Lt. Col. Troy Doyle has faithfully served St. Louis County for close to 30 years. He currently oversees the department’s overall operations, the police academy, dispatch services, and the emergency center, along with other duties,” Thompson stated.
Alease Dailes, Beverly Hills Mayor Brian Jackson, Rodney Patrick , Linda Schmerber, Earnestine Brown, Steve Pakorny, Jennings School Board President Rev. Harold Austin, LaChrista Wilson, Caira Ann Parker, Hazel Erby, Cool Valley Mayor Viola Murphy Moline Acres Mayor Michelle Deshay Demetrious Johnson Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis President Michael McMillan, Northwoods Alderman Errol Bush, Cornell Young, Pat Washington, Alice Wilson, Shonte Young, Ted Gatlin, Ferguson Alderwoman Ella Jones, Erica Williams Pinelawn Mayor Terry Epps and former state Representative Sharon Pace
Note the generic term “equitable,” which would encompass not only racial equity – a burning issue with the department
The Ethical Society of Police (E.S.O.P.) – an association of police officers, park rangers, and civilians that advocates for racial and gender equity in the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department and St. Louis County Police Department – made a lot of noise after the Wildhaber settlement, and for good reason. As previously reported here, E.S.O.P. can
cite chapter and verse on many black cops in the county making credible claims of racial discrimination against the department going back several police chiefs. None of them got a $20 million jury award, promotion or satisfaction of sending the chief who presided over their being discriminated against into early retirement.
Note that E.S.O.P. does
include “gender equity” in its mission statement (though not sexual orientation, something that should be considered). So, it should be expected to offer some celebration of Barton’s appointment – and it did, saying the association “congratulates Chief Barton on her selection as chief.” Then straight to past grievances and the path forward.
“African-American officers have faced unbelievable challenges with our voices being heard under former Chief Jon Belmar, former County Executive Steve Stenger and the current County Executive Sam Page,” E.S.O.P. stated. “We hope that going forward our members will be heard by Chief Barton. We are more than willing to work with Chief Barton, and we will support efforts with fairness, diversity and inclusion for all officers and citizens.”
It must sting for Page to be included in this list of bad
“As I consider his character, experience, loyalty, contributions and deep connections to the St. Louis community, it is troubling for me that a man of his stature was not selected. Lt. Col. Troy Doyle is well respected, well liked and the most qualified candidate for the position. As a civil rights leader and advocate who has been on the battlefield for over 50 years, I did not walk, march, protest and picket to see such atrocities happening in my own community. I wonder what the police commission was thinking?” Thompson is far from alone. A letter calling for Doyle’s appointment was sent to the police board and Page. It was signed by Jennings City Councilman Terry Wilson, Jennings Mayor Yolanda Austin, Jennings City Councilman Gary Johnson Jennings City Councilman Alan Stitchnote, Hazelwood School Board Director Mark Behlmann, Dellwood Mayor Reggie Jones, Bellefontaine Mayor Tommie Pierson Sr., Bellefontaine Alderwoman
To be clear, Thompson’s statement lets Page off the hook, which suggests the disgruntled black advocates for Doyle are not looking for the county executive’s blood in this election year. It’s not his appointment to make, technically, but you don’t reshape a police board in short order and then have no influence in the largest decision it can possibly make. Anyone who understands county politics knows the predicament Page is in with this appointment. The plain fact is that a tremendous amount of deeply entrenched racism remains in St. Louis County, very much including its leadership, despite some remarkable advances, particularly in Page’s position and the County Council. Those racists, with whom Page must deal every day, look at the St. Louis County Prosecutor’s Office and see a black man, Wesley Bell. Those racists will feel a lot more comfortable if they look at the top cop and see anything other than a black person. But wait, we know what you’re thinking. For as long as there have been county prosecutors and police chiefs – that is, up until Bell’s historic election – there has been a white prosecutor and a white top cop. Why can’t there be both a black prosecutor and a black police chief?
That’s why they call it racism. It’s a highly virulent and deadly virus – very contagious, too. Washing your hands, avoiding your face and social distancing won’t help you with this virus.
By Lisa Weintraub Schifferle Of FTC
Teleworking during the Coronavirus outbreak?
While working from home can help slow the spread of the virus, it brings new challenges: juggling work while kids are home from school; learning new software and conferencing programs; and managing paper files at home. As you’re getting your work-at-home systems set up, here are some tips for protecting your devices and personal information.
n If you’re able to work from home, thanks for helping slow the spread of the Coronavirus.
Start with cybersecurity basics. Keep your security software up to date. Use passwords on all your devices and apps. Make sure the passwords are long, strong and unique: at least 12 characters that are a mix of numbers, symbols
and capital and lowercase letters. (See https:// tinyurl.com/t5cx664.)
Secure your home network. Start with your router. Turn on encryption (WPA2 or WPA3). Encryption scrambles information sent over your network so outsiders can’t read it. WPA2 and WPA3 are the most up-to-date encryption standards to protect information sent over a wireless network. No WPA3 or WPA2 options on your router? Try updating your router software, then check again to see if WPA2 or WPA3 are avail-
See TIPS, A14
Robinson held up a sign for her son, St. Louis firefighter Gavin Alfred, to see as he walked across a parking lot after graduation ceremonies at the St. Louis Fire Academy on Friday, March 20. Robinson and all family members of the 40 graduates were unable to attend graduation ceremonies because of social distancing guidelines instituted by the State of Missouri and the City of St. Louis.
fares
Customers can refrain from paying on MetroBus and Metro Call-A-Ride through March 31
Beginning March 21 and continuing through March 31, Metro Transit is temporarily waiving enforcement of cash fares on MetroBus and Metro Call-ARide. Customers using all other fare types can also refrain from using the farebox. These changes were introduced to minimize personal interactions and exposure to COVID-19. All MetroBus customers are required to board and exit buses using the rear doors, except in cases where customers require an accessible entrance at the front of the bus. In addition, to ensure safe
n These changes were introduced to minimize personal interactions and exposure to COVID-19.
and
passengers need to have a valid fare in their possession when riding the light rail system. Also, as of Monday, March 23, all Bi-State Development and Metro Transit employees will be required to have their temperature screened when they report to work. Any employee who has a temperature above 100.4 will be sent home and asked to contact their doctor. Employees will be allowed to return to work once they are fever-free and have a medical statement from their physician. This policy is being implemented to reduce potential exposure for Metro Transit riders and other employees. Metro also is making various service adjustments based on decreased ridership in the pandemic. For information, visit metrostlouis. org. Metro Transit Information also is available Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. by text at 314207-9786 and by phone at 314-2312345.
Funds established to help people affected by COVID-19
The St. Louis Community Foundation is hosting two funds that aid St. Louisans affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Gateway Resilience Fund, which is being funded by individual donors and entities like the Downtown Community Improvement District, will provide short-term monetary relief to employees and owners of independent bars, restaurants, and shops in the St. Louis area affected by the COVID-19 outbreak.
The COVID-19 Regional Response Fund will direct aid to nonprofits already working with the elderly, those isolated and/or quarantined, and children who no longer receive free and reduced lunches. A coalition of more than 25 St. Louis area funders established it.
To date, both funds, which are housed at the St. Louis Community Foundation, have raised $1.4 million. Grants from each will be guided by advisory committees unique to the mission of each fund. Details for applying for grants will be posted on stlgives.org.
For information on donating, visit https://stlgives.org/COVID19/ or email info@stlgives.org.
“TakingCareofYou”
BJC HealthCare medical staff examined a person in the drive-up coronavirus testing center on the parking lot Friday, Mar. 20, near the intersections of Clayton and Boyle avenues.
Health care organizations join in creating more widely available
BJC HealthCare opened its first COVID-19 specimen collection center in the Cortex corridor on Thursday, March 19 as health care organizations join in creating more widely available testing resources throughout the region. The center is available to those who are being referred by BJC providers after screening and those who have been pre-screened using U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines. BJC is planning to open additional sites in North St. Louis County and the Metro East in the coming
n The center is available to those who are being referred by BJC providers after screening and those who have been prescreened using CDC guidelines.
weeks. “The collection center will help better serve our community and reduce potential exposures in hospitals and clinics where patients are being treated for other kinds of medical issues,” said Clay Dunagan, MD, BJC senior vice president and chief clinical officer. BJC encourages the public to be proactive in protecting their health by practicing infection prevention techniques, which can be found at bjc.org/coronavirus. For any specific health concerns, contact your health provider.
‘You don’t want to be known as
Pandemic is forcing churches to worship and tithe at a social distance
By Sandra Jordan
Of The St. Louis American
The COVID-19 worldwide pandemic is where health and religious expression is clashing for some clergy, who are struggling with adapting to socially distant ways to reach their members. Most leaders are following social distancing directives and are moving worship experiences online and encouraging donations through digital platforms.
In the St. Louis area, St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson and County Executive Sam Page met with the St. Louis Metropolitan Clergy Coalition members on Thursday, March 19 (via conference call, along with many other callers) to reiterate the crucial importance of practicing social distance. Public officials urge and mandate gatherings of no more than 10 people, all six feet apart, to help church members stay out of harm’s way from the new coronavirus and to do their part to
n “We’ll be streaming from St. James, right now, on Facebook. We’re looking at trying to go to YouTube as well as Instagram.”
– Rev. Charles Norris, St. James AME Church
stop the spread of COVID-19. While this is the imperative with no clear end in sight, some still struggle with being about the business of the church in this age of the new coronavirus. And there are concerns that some ministries may shut down permanently.
See CHURCH, A11
By Dr. Denise Hooks-Anderson Of The St. Louis American
Recently, one of our readers submitted an excellent question regarding the next steps for individuals who believe they may have the coronavirus. So much of the news has been focused on prevention and the current numbers of people infected. To be honest, coronavirus discussion has been flooding television, radio, and social media. However, in light of the situation, let’s review what we know.
The novel coronavirus infection is believed to have begun in Wuhan, China in December 2019 and has spread to approximately 100 locations internationally. The CDC recommends the following to prevent infection:
• Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly for at least 20 seconds. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water aren’t available.
• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects people frequently touch.
The novel coronavirus infection, which is referred to as COVID-19, produces symptoms such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath. These generic symptoms also mimic symptoms of upper respiratory infections and influenza. Sometimes COVID-19 causes respiratory problems or kidney damage. People with weakened immune systems and the elderly are most at risk.
Transmission rates in children have been low. However, this does not give license to young people to disregard the social distancing recommended by governmental agencies.
So what do you do if you have the aforementioned symptoms? Per the major health organizations, you should contact your health provider first over the phone.
of
led a conference call on Thursday, March 19 with clergy and public officials to discuss adapting to socially distant ways to hold church services with a limit on 10 people at any public gathering.
“TakingCareofYou”
By Chris King Of The St. Louis American
Governor Mike Parson granted flexibility to the Missouri Department of Social Services to preserve social safety net protections during the COVID-19 pandemic –the same protections that the Parson administration had been stripping away before the pandemic reached Missouri. Through the end of the federal emergency COVID19 declaration, eligibility for any Medicaid participant will not be terminated unless the individual requests a voluntary termination of eligibility or the individual ceases to be a resi-
Continued from A10
Just like their worship services going virtual, many churches are encouraging online giving, as other churches are getting up to speed on how to move tithes and offerings to a digital app or to accept donations in person while staying socially distant.
Rev. Charles Norris, pastor of St. James AME Church and an officer of the coalition, said his membership had already decided to move services online.
“We’ll be streaming from St. James, right now, on Facebook,” Norris said. “We’re looking at trying to go to YouTube as well as Instagram.” He said that giving by mail and online using Givelify and even PayPal are options.
The 14 churches comprising the St. Louis-Cape Girardeau District of the AME Church is also following the directive of government officials and AME leadership by holding virtual services.
“No gatherings larger than 10, everyone is adhering to that, and when they do gather, they’re adhering to the distancing of six to 10 feet, and no one is having a collective worship above that,” said Presiding Elder Edmund E. Lowe Sr., Missouri Conference, St. Louis/Cape Girardeau District, 5th District, AME Church.
“And all of them are doing some form of virtual worship services for the upcoming next few weeks, for sure.”
dent of the state. MO HealthNet coverage will be extended 90 days to Missourians ages 19-64 who test positive for COVID-19 and meet the income and resource eligibility guidelines. The state will relax requirements related to prescription refills and prior authorizations to ensure participants have access to essential medications.
n MO HealthNet coverage will be extended 90 days to Missourians ages 19-64 who test positive for COVID-19 and meet the income and resource eligibility guidelines.
The state will expedite new provider enrollment applica-
tions and waive certain enrollment requirements such as application fees and on-site visits to enable providers to serve Medicaid participants.
The state will waive the co-payment for any services provided by means of telehealth.
The Family Support Division is waiving all work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents for 90 days to receive Food Stamp/
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. Child Care Subsidy benefits are extended for 90 days. Provider application renewals are extended for 90 days
The state has requested waivers from the United States Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service for Food Stamp adverse action notices for 90 days, initial in-person Food Stamp interviews for 90 days
A federal waiver to extend Food Stamp certification periods by six months has been received.
Friendly Temple Missionary Baptist Church canceled Bible study and weekday activities at its locations in the City of St. Louis and in St. Louis County. Although its website stated regular Sunday worship service will go on as scheduled, it is getting updated to say Friendly Temple will LiveStream its service at 10 a.m. on Facebook.
Some ministers asked about possible noise fines in the city if they chose drive-in church services –– having worship
outside with loudspeakers and worshippers staying in their vehicles in church parking lots.
Krewson said there would be no fines and that option might work. Page said he would defer to advice from his public health leaders and hospital medical directors about the risk of community spread by having outdoor services. Someone mentioned it would have been nice to have city and county health officials on
the call.
Some asked about possible arrests or penalties for violating the limitations on group gathering.
“Some pastors said they are going to test it,” warned one clergy member.
Rev. Melvin Smith, pastor of Nazareth Temple Church of God in Christ in St. Louis, who is a longtime practicing attorney, said, “The law of the land is that there are times at which our politicians and elected offi-
cials can intervene. We should follow the leadership of our elected officials.”
Smith also mentioned other ramifications. If a church violates the guidelines and members contract COVID-19, there could be legal consequences for the church. He advised that churches have liability insurance. Additionally, he said, “You don’t want to be the church known as the COVID19 church.”
They also discussed the
Governor Mike Parson granted flexibility to the Missouri Department of Social Services to preserve social safety net protections during the COVID-19 pandemic – the same protections that the Parson administration had been stripping away before the pandemic reached Missouri.
Dr. Hari Krishna Nallapaneni, chief medical officer at CareSTL Health, spoke on the importance of hand washing to help combat the spread of the novel coronavirus during a press conference Thursday, March 19 at St. James AME Church.
dangerous and false rumor that black folks can’t get the new coronavirus. It’s just not true. They are getting it, and are succumbing to it.
“This virus does not discriminate,” said Public Safety Director Jimmie Edwards. For more information on guidance for community and faith-based organizations, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/ organizations/index.html.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not authorized any test that is available to purchase for testing yourself at home for COVID19, it reminded the public on Saturday, March 21. However, the agency is beginning to see unauthorized fraudulent test kits that are being marketed to test for COVID-19 in the home.
“We have already identified and issued warning letters to companies found selling and promoting fraudulent items, and we expect additional such actions will be forthcoming,” the FDA stated.
“Additionally, we are stepping up enforcement at ports of entry, including
There is no authorized home test on the market yet n “We have already identified and issued warning letters to companies found selling and promoting fraudulent items,” the FDA stated.
International Mail Facilities, to ensure these fraudulent products that originate outside the country do not enter through our borders.”
Continued from A10
Staff or the provider will then direct your next steps. If your symptoms and your risk factors sound suspicious for the virus, staff should direct you to the health department. Making the provider aware of any past travel to high-risk areas such as China or Italy in the past 14 days is also
extremely important. This full-disclosure discussion will help reduce the disease burden in communities. Furthermore, if you believe you have been standing within six feet of someone with the virus, this information should also be shared with your provider. Please do not just show up to the hospital or your doctor’s office if you suspect that you have been exposed to the coronavirus. Remember, the goal is to also prevent spread to
Fraudulent health claims, tests, and products can pose serious health risks, the FDA noted, as they may keep some patients from seeking care or delay necessary medical treatment.
n Call your health care provider if you are symptomatic to discuss whether you should be evaluated in person and considered for testing.
others. Call your health care provider if you are symptomatic to discuss whether you should be evaluated in person and considered for testing. To be tested by the state
public health laboratory, patients must meet the state’s criteria, which evaluates a combination of symptoms and risk factors. State lab results are generally available within 24 hours. Commercial labs take
If you are aware of fraudulent test kits for COVID19, please report them to the FDA at 2019-nCoV-FDAIMG-Operations-FraudulentProducts@fda.hhs.gov.
The FDA reminds consumers to follow the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidelines and speak to your medical provider if you have symptoms of COVID-19. Your medical provider will advise you about whether you should get tested and the process for being tested with an appropriate test. The CDC guidelines are at https://www.cdc.gov/ coronavirus/2019-ncov/index. html.
approximately three days. For more details, the public can call the Missouri 24-hour coronavirus hotline by dialing 877-435-8411 or visit the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services’ website at https://tinyurl.com/ MO-COVID19. As a primary care provider, I realize that this coronavirus pandemic has been stressful in numerous ways, such as school closings, arranging child care, job closings, and, simply put, fear of the unknown. Nevertheless, I recommend that we all remain calm and follow the rapidly evolving guidelines as they are released. Denise Hooks-Anderson, M.D., FAAFP, is associate professor at SLUCare Family Medicine and medical accuracy editor of The St. Louis American. Email yourhealthmatters@ stlamerican.com.
Health Matters is provided in partnership with Missouri Foundation for Health is a resource for the region, working
in health. As a catalyst for change, the Foundation
PRESENT:
Perhaps you’ve decided to eat healthier. Don’t think of these healthy changes as “going on a diet.” Instead, think of these smart choices as a new, healthier lifestyle. You can do this by forming new habits. For example, if you decide to eliminate sugary drinks completely, it only takes a few weeks until this becomes what you’re used to.
Here are the steps to making a healthy permanent change. We‘ll use the sugary drink change as an example.
Let’s make a game out of exercise! First, locate either a deck of cards or two dice. Next you’ll need to make a list of different types of exercise: jumping jacks, sit-ups, lunges, etc. Write each exercise item on a small
How much time do you spend each day looking down at a phone, laptop or video game?
Chiropractors around the country see young patients every day suffering from back, neck and head-aches resulting from the extra strain you put on your body when you look down for long periods of time. A couple of quick tips that will reduce that strain on your neck are:
> Decide you’re going to switch from soda to water.
> Start by substituting one drink per day to water.
> Every few days increase the amount of water and decrease your soda intake.
> After 3-4 weeks, this change will become a habit.
When you automatically reach for water instead of soda, it has now become a lifestyle change!
Learning Standards:
piece of paper or index card and fold into a small square. Put these squares into a bowl.
Take turns rolling the dice (or drawing a card) and selecting an exercise from the bowl. The total number on the dice or card tells you how many of the
1. Most importantly — take breaks! Have a goal of a 3 minute break every 15-20 minutes. Move around, stretch your neck and relax, without looking down!
2. Set your tech device in a holder to keep it at eye level, reducing the need to look down.
Learning Standards: HPE 1, HPE 2, NH 1, NH 5
exercise you must do. Face cards (king, queen or jack) should all count as the number 10. Aces are “wild” and you can do as many as you want! To really challenge yourself, have one person roll the dice and the second can select the exercise. See who can complete the exercise challenge first!
Learning Standards: HPE 2, HPE 4, HPE 5, NH 1
Ingredients: 1 cup blueberries 1 cup non-fat Greek Yogurt
Directions: Drop each blueberry into the yogurt. Using a spoon, swirl around to coat and place each blueberry on a cookie sheet topped with parchment paper. Freeze for at least an hour.
Shawnee Palmer, Owner and Primary Therapist
Where do you work? I am the owner and primary therapist at Alpine’s Empowerment Agency. Where did you go to school? I graduated from Springfield High School. I then earned a Bachelor of Social Work degree from the University of Illinois at Springfield in Springfield, Illinois, and a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Denver in Denver, Colorado.
What does a therapist do? I work with kids and adults helping them talk and play through their issues with fun and mindful activities.
Some of those activities involve using UNO cards, Play Doh, Kinetic Sand, glitter, calming music and slime.
Why did you choose this career? I chose this career because I enjoy helping other people overcome challenges that are difficult for them to do on their own.
What is your favorite part of the job you have? My favorite part is having my clients tell me that the time that I spent with them helped them make a change in their own lives for the better. I’ve seen clients overcome bullying at school and learn to better control their emotions so that they are less affected by the trauma bullying causes. I’ve helped clients become more outspoken with others about their feelings and seeking help to solve problems
Learning Standards: HPE6, NH3
“Questions or comments? Contact Cathy Sewell csewell@stlamerican.com or 314-289-5422
The St. Louis American’s award winning NIE program provides newspapers and resources to more than 8,000 teachers and students each week throughout the school year, at no charge.
Questions or comments? Contact Cathy Sewell csewell@stlamerican.com or 314-289-5422
Mullanphy ILC Elementary School
4th grade teacher
Kyle Hagan shows students Jason Glover, Neziah Jamerson, Kyle Parker and Corniya Watkins how to use the newspaper’s NIE page for STEM ideas.
A comet is made out of dust and ice. Many scientists compare them to a dirty snowball. Comets are created in two places, Kuiper Belt and the Oort Cloud. Comets can live there for billions of years. However, once they bump into each other, they can change direction. This is what sends them to the Inner Solar System. The sun’s heat and radiation creates a Solar Wind, which causes an increase in temperature, and the comet begins to melt away. As they
melt, the dust and gas debris forms a tail. At this point, the only solid part of the comet is the nucleus, which is the center of the comet. As the comet gets closer to the sun, the nucleus boils off a cloud of dust and gas, called a coma.
For more information, visit: https://spaceplace.nasa.gov/search/comet/.
Learning Standards: I can read nonfiction text for main idea and supporting details.
In this experiment, you will make a colorful comet that you can use to play catch.
Materials Needed:
• Plastic Grocery Bag
• Scissors
• Tennis Ball
• String or Ribbon
• Glow-in-the-dark Paint
• Paintbrush Process:
q Cut the handles off of the plastic bag.
e Put the ball in the middle of the plastic, and pull the corners together.
r Tie the string around the plastic, close to the ball, so the plastic won’t slip off.
t Carefully cut slits in the plastic, making 1 or 2-inch strips.
y Paint the comet with glow-in-the-dark paint. When the paint dries, you can decorate it with stickers, ribbons, etc.
Reflect: The tennis ball is like the ice and rock chunk in the center of a comet, and the plastic bag makes the coma and tail.
William M. Jackson was born on September 24, 1936, in Birmingham, Alabama. He grew up in Birmingham and Mobile, Alabama, and attended Immaculata High School and Central High School. Jackson earned his bachelor’s degree in chemistry in 1956 from Morehouse College, and his doctorate degree in 1961 in chemistry from Catholic University of America. He studied photochemistry, lasers chemistry, and astrochemistry.
Jackson used chemical research to understand comets and led the first research team to use the International Ultraviolet Explorer telescope in a satellite to observe comets. Jackson’s work included many organizations such as the National Bureau of Standards (now the National Institute of Standards and Technology), Martin-Marietta Company, NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, the University of Pittsburgh, Howard University, and University of California, Davis (UCD). Jackson has taught at UCD since 1985.
The National Science Foundation awarded Jackson a 1.2 million dollar grant to establish the Mentorship for Undergraduate Research Participants in Physical and Mathematical Sciences. Jackson made it a point to recruit and mentor African Americans for the PhD program in Chemistry. He has published over 165 academic papers, and has one patent in his name. He was also a founder of the National Organization for the Professional Advancement of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers.
Comet 67P/C-G from March 2016, about 200 miles away. Credit European Space Agency/Rosetta
w Carefully cut down each side of the bag, to make a flat piece of plastic.
Rainy days mean spending more time in the house, so it’s a perfect time to play games to sharpen your math skills!
101 AND OUT:
Materials Needed:
A Sheet of Paper
• Pencil • One Dice
Object of the Game: To score as close to 101 without going over or “out.”
Learning Standards: I can follow sequential directions to make a model of a product.
Materials Needed: A Writing Surface • Writing Utensils • Someone who is quick with their math facts for a “caller.”
Object of the Game: Guess the other player’s number before they guess yours.
Players: 2 players and 1 caller for each round. To give everyone a chance to play, keep playing until you are “out,” and cycle in a new player each round.
Jackson has received a number of awards, including the 1997 Lifetime Mentor Award from the American Association for the Advancement of Science, a Guggenheim Foundation Fellowship, a Distinguished Research and Emeritus Professor, Bennie Trailblazer Award, and an Alexander von Humboldt Research Award. Jackson is a member of the Phi Beta Kappa National Honor Society and was named a Fellow of the American Physical Society. The Planetary Society also named an asteroid 1081 EE37 as Billjackson, as a tribute to him.
Learning Standards: I can read a biography about an African American who has made contributions in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math.
Players: Can play as individuals, in small teams, boys vs. girls, etc.
Directions: Take turns rolling the dice. Players can take the number as a one or a ten. For example, if a student rolls a 5, they could take it as a 5 or a 50. Students keep a running record of their total as they play. The player (or group) that first scores as close to 101 as possible without going over wins.
Directions: Two students stand in the front of the room and stand back to back. This allows the students to write on a piece of paper, but blocks their view of the other person’s number. The players will write a number between 2 and 9. The caller states “numbers up” as the signal for the players to write their number on the sheet of paper. The caller then states the sum or product of the two numbers. The students use their understanding of math facts to figure out what the other person’s number is when added or multiplied by their number. The player to say the other person’s number first wins the round. The “loser” gets to choose the next person to come to the front.
Learning Standards: I can add, subtract, multiply, and divide to solve a problem.
If a comet comes close enough to Earth, it is bright enough to see during the day. Around 500 B.C., Greek philosophers used the word “komotes,” which means “long haired,” to refer to the comets they observed in
Many people believe the comet’s tail is traveling behind
depending on the Sun’s solar wind.
Enjoy these activities that help you get to know your St. Louis American newspaper.
Activities —
Relevant Information: Find an interesting news story to evaluate. Read the story and identify the main ideas. Number the ideas in order of importance. Explain why you chose that order.
Polygon Perimeters: Locate and circle 4 verbs in a news story. Use a ruler to connect the verbs like a dot-to-dot puzzle to form a polygon. Measure and label each side of your polygon with a ruler. Add the lengths of your sides to find the perimeter. Write the perimeter in the center of your polygon. Try it again with nouns or adjectives.
Learning Standards: I can use the newspaper to locate information. I can identify main idea. I can identify parts of speech.
American staff
Missouri Governor Mike Parson announced some actions by the Department of Revenue in response to the COVID-19 pandemic on Saturday, March 21. The deadline to file state income tax returns has been extended from April 15 to July 15.
Income tax payment deadlines for individual and corporate income returns with a due date of April 15 are extended until July 15. This payment relief applies to all individual income tax returns, income tax returns filed by C Corporations, and income tax returns filed by trusts or estates. The Department of Revenue will automatically provide this relief, so filers do not need to take any additional steps to qualify.
This relief for individuals and corporations will also include estimated tax payments for tax year 2020 that are due on April 15. Penalties and interest will begin to accrue on any remaining unpaid balances as of July 16.
Individuals and corporations that file their return or request an extension of time to file by July 15 will automatically avoid interest and penalties on the tax paid by July 15.
licenses and motor vehicle registrations.
n This payment relief applies to all individual income tax returns, income tax returns filed by C Corporations, and income tax returns filed by trusts or estates.
To alleviate public congestion in local license offices, the state has implemented automatic extensions for expiring driver
Vehicle owners with registrations or license plates expiring in March and April have been granted an automatic twomonth extension. Owners will be able to continue operating their vehicles on Missouri roadways without penalty until they can apply for renewal. The time frame in which a vehicle safety and emission inspection is valid for March and April license plate expirations has also been extended an additional 60 days.
Applicants for title will not be assessed a late title penalty when visiting a license office, effective immediately; this waiver will continue through April 30. Valid Missouri driver licenses, nondriver licenses and noncommercial instruction permits with original expiration dates of March 1 through April 30 have been granted an automatic 60-day extension. This approved extension does not waive the mandatory retesting requirement for persons who have allowed their license to expire for more than 184 days. Also, individuals who were provided notice to complete additional testing as part of a medical review program requirement may be granted an additional 60 days to comply with such requirements.
Continued from A9
able. If not, consider replacing your router. For more guidance, read Securing Your Wireless Network (https://tinyurl. com/v8vxk22) and Secure Remote Access (https://tinyurl. com/w596nb8).
Keep an eye on your laptop If you’re using a laptop, make sure
Dispose
By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American
“We had four shows left and we had to cancel the last weekend of ‘Spell #7’,” Ron Himes, the Black Rep’s founder and producing director said.
They were on the tail end of the near completely sold-out extended run of their production of the Ntozake Shange play. The third show of the company’s 43rd season was set to close on Sunday, March 15 at the Wash U.’s A.E. Hotchner Studio Theatre.
On March 11, The Black Rep learned that they would have to cancel because of COVID19 precautions. Two weeks later, they are still unsure if their highly anticipated season finale, the musical “Marie and Rosetta,” will go on as scheduled in May.
Washington University hasn’t given them word on whether the Edison Theatre will be open for them to welcome audiences. But the school has cancelled their spring commencement – which takes place a week after the play opens. It seems highly unlikely that they will be able to stage the production for its originally scheduled run, but Himes is keeping the door open on his end – though proceeding with caution.
“The design team is in place and on hold and the actors are on hold,” Himes said. “We’re holding on and keeping abreast of what the city, the county and the CDC is saying. If we cannot do the last show, we have probably close to $25,000 in presales that we will have to refund -which would be a major, major hit.”
Social distancing has taken a toll on the
See Rep, B2
Soul crooner, songwriter and producer Raphael Saadiq served up some classics from his days in Tony!Toni!Tone! as well as some of his own cuts and songs many might not have known he had a hand in, when he brought his Jimmy Lee Tour to The Pageant last month.
‘Everything is just dead’
By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American
Orlando Watson is co-owner of Prime 55 Restaurant as well as a music producer and concert promoter through his RockHouse Ent. brand. Thanks to social distancing and stay at home orders as lines of defense in the fight against the coronavirus global pandemic, he is essentially out of business for the foreseeable future.
“It’s flatline across the board,” Watson said. “I got hit twice. I’ve got the restaurant and the concerts. Everything is just dead.” Prime 55 had 24 employees and was bustling with patrons just days before coronavirus was declared a pandemic. They had a popular brunch on the weekend, live music on Wednesday nights and a robust dinner menu five days a week. As of Tuesday, they are down to two employees – a chef and someone to take phone carry out orders for their limited to-go menu. They are still serving food, though not to make money. Their carry-out menu options are a service to people looking for dining options as they self-contain. They can’t make a profit from the diminished capacity of the restaurant – even minus
Nichol Stevenson had to close her recently opened downtown performance venue House of Soul due to stay at home orders currently in place for St. Louis City to combat the spread of coronavirus.
Club and concert venue closed by coronavirus is envisioning beyond the pandemic
By Kenya Vaughn Of The
St. Louis American
the payroll – because of the overhead costs and bills. Much of the expenses comes from renting the building that houses the eatery, located in the heart of the Delmar Loop.
“I had a conference call with several other restaurateurs earlier today – and to hear seasoned restaurateurs on the phone as nervous as they were, that sent a jolt through me,” said Watson. He opened the restaurant last June with
fellow music industry veteran Tony “T-Luv” Davis. “I was like, ‘I’m a newbie to this and these guys are twenty-plus years in, and they are spooked,’” Watson said. “It’s unchartered territory for all of us. I don’t know what to make of this. Because we don’t know where this is
n “It was like, what do I do with myself?
Nichol Stevenson is convinced that the third time will be the charm for House of Soul, an intimate performance venue and nightclub located at Tucker and Washington. She had to open then close again because of two bouts with cancer – which is now in remission. After holding special occasion private events for several months, House of Soul officially opened its doors as a weekend establishment on October 15, 2019. Things were slow at first, but traffic was increasing by leaps and bounds because of several high-profile birthday parties and their staple monthly events, Café Soul and Trap Soul Paint.
I can’t go to work.
I can’t be there to serve people.”
- Nichol Stevenson, House of Soul
“We were just kicking into gear,” Stevenson said. “The space had really taken off.” She was ready for one of her most successful weekends to date, thanks to a Sneakers Ball on March 21, Café Soul on March 27 and Trap Soul Paint on March 29. All three events were sold-out.
The universe had other plans. Before any of those events could take place, Stevenson had to close the doors on House of Soul because of the coronavirus social distancing orders.
“It was the weirdest feeling ever,” Stevenson said. “It was like, what do I do with myself? I can’t go to work. I can’t be there to serve people.”
But as an eternal optimist, Stevenson managed to find a bright side.
“If this hadn’t happened, I don’t think that I would have truly recognized the value that we have,” Stevenson said. “Entertainment is an essential part of people’s lives. Be it gospel, jazz R&B, blues or pop. Seeing people like D-Nice and everybody on Facebook and Instagram going live as a substitute for what you go out for, showed me that it’s hard to replace who we are and what we do.”
Even as she sees things in a positive light, Stevenson admits some harsh realities of the abrupt closure. She doesn’t know exactly when she will be open again – but promises it will be as soon as
See Soul, B2
artist with a national presence that Watson has worked closely with over the years, was ready to release her album.
Continued from B1
going, and we don’t know how long this can last – and there’s no blueprint or barometer.”
The restaurant is a few steps away from The Pageant, where RockHouse Ent. has brought some of the biggest names in music, including Lil Kim, Yo Gotti, Jeezy and Meghan Thee Stallion.
“Every event that I was planning from now until the end of the summer – all of that stuff is canceled,” Watson said. “I haven’t rescheduled anything.”
One of his biggest concerns as the nation braces for how things shake out is the team of people he employs.
On top of the twenty-plus restaurant employees on indefinite furlough, another dozen or so work with him on the shows.
“That’s almost forty people that we give jobs to that look like me and you and they are all hurting right now, and we all want to get back to work as soon as possible,” Watson said. “Some of these small businesses might not rebound from this. Hell, I could be one of them, God forbid.”
Technically, Watson was hit three times. Mai Lee, an R&B
“We finally got done with that, and we have to push that back,” Watson said. “It’s a ghost town right now, and people are scrambling trying to figure out what to do, and where are they are going to get income from. And is there a business after this is over?”
He’s filled with uncertainty about what the economy will look like when the smoke from coronavirus clears and feels that Donald Trump is to blame.
“His approach is so terrible,” Watson said. “We were late to the dance, that’s why we are in the predicament we are in now. And this fool is talking about having [expletive] open by Easter. That’s two weeks from now. Just the thought of him saying that [expletive] me off. It’s something wrong with that man.”
All of this is happening as Watson faces his greatest health crisis. A cancer survivor who enjoyed years of remission, the disease came back with a vengeance in November. He had surgery that removed all the bone from his leg and his knee, which was replaced with metal. He had a staph infection at his point of surgery, had to be re-hospitalized and is currently
unable to walk.
“I’m trying to balance all of that while this is going on,” Watson said. “It’s equally difficult to process all of this.”
His own health challenges are part of the reason he’s more concerned with the countless individuals whose health are at risk because of coronavirus than his business suffering because of social distancing. He considers the extreme measures that have cost him his business in the short term to be necessary.
“I just don’t know how long it’s going to last,” Watson said. “I don’t want to see any of us going through this – but we’re here now.”
He is nervous, but hopeful for how the outcome of the economy will impact his business.
“As black folks in this country we have been through storms for centuries,” Watson said. “I’ve been broke, I’ve had money and been broke again. I’ve been sick and I’ve been healthy and sick again.”
He feels that staying vigilant and getting creative as the financial aftershock of coronavirus hits is essential.
“As for right now, I’m just praying,” Watson said. “At this point it’s all we can do – that and stay in the damn house.”
Continued from B1
she can.
She has lost money and momentum. There’s the income she generates from the club that she won’t see. She’s also spent a substantial amount on marketing promoting her upcoming events – that are no longer happening –and building the brand for her club as it waits for the tide to turn, as far as the pandemic.
She’s not the only one.
Her staff, the bands and artists that come through to perform have temporarily lost their livelihood.
“A bartender can’t go live and make drinks over Instagram and Facebook for tips, so how do we support them?” Stevenson asked. “I want everybody to get support at this time, but how do we do it? We can’t come together for an event. We can’t rally together for a big fundraiser if we can’t go out.”
Several of her customers dis-
Continued from B1
Black Rep beyond the stage. With the schools being closed through April 22 – and possibly the remainder of the year – they have lost an important revenue stream.
In addition to the mainstage productions, the Black Rep’s educational program runs yearround with student matinees, touring shows, workshops and more, at schools and recreation departments across the region.
Because this is about the time that The Black Rep would normally announce its upcoming season, they are losing presale and subscription renewal income. Himes wouldn’t offer any hints on the next season, except to say that it was one he can’t wait to present.
“I don’t want it to get swallowed up in the midst of the coronavirus news of the day,” Himes said. “I also don’t think that anybody would be thinking about season tickets for this year at this time – or renewing their season tickets for next year. I will say that we have
played unexpected generosity when she told them she would be temporarily unavailable to offer them the House of Soul experience, with no clear date on when things will resume.
“I’ve had people call and say, ‘I had a VIP reserved for $500. You can hold the reservation and we will just figure it out’,” Stevenson said. “In a situation where we could appear to be hopeless, I feel that people are going to rally together and support each other. I saw a Facebook post that said, when this is all over, I’m going to make sure that I support local and small businesses.’”
Her situation is also more positive than most because of her landlord.
“Mr. Tony Thompson, the owner of the building, is also committed to the vision of House of Soul,” Stevenson said. “That makes a difference and I’m appreciative to have his support – but everyone doesn’t have an owner like him.”
And because she is only open two days a week, she is aware that she has a smaller loss window.
“There are some people who
a really, really great roster of plays.”
But even if the show can’t go on, the company is still moving forward.
“I committed to keeping our people on payroll for as long as we can, and we are confident that when things clear that people will want to come back to the theater,” Himes said. “We had a Zoom meeting yesterday. I wanted to check in with everybody to see how they were doing and bringing everybody up to date as far as where we are at this time.”
The organization is planning for a board meeting to strategize and determine how they will proceed as an institution in the wake of the financial toll of coronavirus.
The sudden stop came just as The Black Rep had settled into its reemergence.
“We spent the past few seasons really swimming upstream and turning things around,” Himes said. “We had rebounded. Last season was just incredible – and this season was getting ready to surpass last season’s numbers.”
Box office revenue and revenue from education programs were up. Funding had been
are in the business who are open five days a week and take care of their children’s tuition and family bills and live off of what they do,” Stevenson said. “They will have to lay off employees. I hope that if they don’t own their own buildings, that the landlords that they are renting from will give them some grace.”
She knows the future will include a major transition for herself and other club owners – like The Marquee and Smoke Sessions, among others – as they attempt to regroup.
She’s ready for House of Soul’s next chapter.
“We appreciate all of the support we’ve received up until now and we are looking forward to relaunching with a new kitchen and bringing some of the best food, art and music to St. Louis,” Stevenson said. “I’m not getting down. I felt down for a second. But I thought about how this isn’t the first time I’ve had to close and open again.
“So, I’m just hitting the restart button and making it ‘do what it do.’”
restored through several sources that they had reestablished relationships with.
“Marie and Rosetta,” a gospel musical play about the legacy of Sister Rosetta Tharpe as the season finale was set to follow well-received productions of “Don’t Bother Me, I Can’t Cope,” August Wilson’s “Two Trains Running” and “Spell #7.” It was set to be a commercial triumph.
“We expected record-breaking or close to record-breaking numbers in attendance for that show,” Himes said. And it was happening on the heels of “Spell #7.” Rapper Tef Poe and costume director Brandin Vaughn used their strong social media presence to attract a new audience for The Black Rep.
“I just think that we had really tapped into something rich – and hopefully we will be able to hit that vein again,” Himes said. “We were riding a high tide and it seems like ‘woosh, wipeout,” Himes said. “Total wipeout.”
Things are up in the air for “Marie and Rosetta,” but Himes’ immediate concern is for the handful of young adults who make up this season’s cohort of professional interns.
“Over half of our interns came to St. Louis just to work at The Black Rep,” Himes said. “And when people talk about living check to check, that’s pretty much how our interns live. I emailed and asked, ‘Is everybody good in the cupboard? The next time I cook a pot of chili, do I have to double the beans in it and do some drop offs?’”
Himes said, like thousands of displaced college students, the non-natives are not likely to have the money to get home.
“I’m concerned for them and about them and I feel responsible for them and to them,” Himes said. “I want to make sure that we are here for them.” In the meantime, he urges longtime patrons and theater lovers to stay tuned.
“We are still here,” Himes said. “We will be back, and we hope that they will be there when we are able to come back.”
For more information on The Black Rep, visit www.theblackrep.org.
With Earl Austin Jr.
The progress of the Saint Louis University basketball program under the direction of Travis Ford in the past four years has been well documented as the Billikens have become one of the top programs in the Atlantic 10 Conference.
However, there has been another very successful college basketball story brewing in St. Louis; and it happens to be right across the street at Harris-Stowe State University.
At about the same time that SLU was tabbing Ford as its new head coach, Brion Dunlap was also being hired as the new head coach for the Hornets. Dunlap has spent the previous six years as an assistant at Holy Cross and Winston Salem State before landing the HarrisStowe job.
In four seasons at HarrisStowe, Dunlap has transformed the Hornets into a championship program. The Hornets play an exciting brand of basketball with lots of fast breaks, 3-pointers and plenty of points on the scoreboard.
In his fourth season, Dunlap led the Hornets to a 23-9 record and the championship of the American Midwest Conference Tournament. The Hornets went on the road to Arkansas to defeat Central Baptist 99-95 championship game to win their third AMC tournament championship in four years.
In winning the AMC Tournament, HarrisStowe earned the league’s automatic bid to the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics National Tournament, which was subsequently cancelled due to the COVID-19 outbreak around the country. The Hornets also finished the season ranked No. 24 in the latest NAIA national poll. Dunlap has done a very good job of recruit-
n The latest local player to impact the Harris-Stowe program is 6’4” junior guard Deshawn Munson, a former standout performer at East St. Louis Senior High who emerged as arguably the top player in the NAIA ranks this season.
ing excellent high school and junior college players from around the country who are looking for an opportunity to shine at the collegiate level. He has also been able to recruit local players from the St. Louis area who have made a big impact in the program in recent years.
The latest local player to impact the Harris-Stowe program is 6’4” junior guard Deshawn Munson, a former standout performer at East St. Louis Senior High who emerged as arguably the top player in the NAIA ranks this season. Munson was a dominant performer as he is at the top of the leaderboard in nearly every offensive category you can think of.
During his incredible season, Munson averaged 28.4 points, 8.0 assists and 3.0 steals, which led the nation’s NAIA schools in all three categories. He also averaged 11.3 rebounds a game, which was second in the nation.
Munson also recorded seven triple-doubles during the season, including a spectacular 37-point, 11-rebound, 11-assist performance against Central Baptist in the AMC Tournament Championship game. The young man was simply amazing from start to finish all season.
Another local product that made a big contribution this season was 6’8” senior
forward Duane Clark Jr., a former CBC standout who had played previously at UMKC and Central Missouri. Clark found a home at Harris-Stowe and averaged 13.5 points and 7.4 rebounds while shooting 60 percent from the field. Clark also had a big performance against Central Baptist in the finals with 12 points and 14 rebounds. The Hornets also got 15 points from junior Nick McKenzie and 13 points from junior
David Spell. McKenzie, a 6’2” guard from Chicago, averaged 10 points a game while shooting 40 percent from 3-point range while making 66 treys. Maurice Smith, a 6’6” forward, averaged 8.1 points and 5.2 rebounds a game while the trio of Jhaylen Covington-Berry (Hazelwood Central), Spell and Christian Davis all averaged 6.4 points a game.
By Earl Austin Jr.
The University of Missouri football program received some great recruiting news last week when East St. Louis High football standout Tyler Macon gave a verbal commitment to the Tigers and first-year coach Eli Drinkwitz.
n Macon is coming off a spectacular, record-setting junior season in which he led the Flyers to the IHSA Class 6A state championship.
The 6’0” 185-pound Macon made his announcement via his Twitter account last week. He chose Mizzou over other schools such as Illinois, Iowa, Indiana, UCLA and several others.
Macon is coming off a spectacular, record-setting junior season in which he led the Flyers to the IHSA Class 6A state championship. Macon was the St. Louis American Large Schools Offensive Player of the Year as well as a First-Team All-State selection in Illinois.
As a junior, Macon set a new Illinois state record with a combined 56 touchdowns, passing and rushing. He completed 219 of 314 passes for 4,241 yards with 39 touchdowns and only seven interceptions. He also rushed for 827 yards and 17 touchdowns to lead the Flyers to a perfect 14-0 record.
As a sophomore, Macon passed for 2,390 yards with 28 touchdowns and four interceptions while rushing for 1,190 yards and 18 touchdowns.
a verbal commitment to the
and
Central High Class of 1970 is in the process of planning its 50-year reunion in 2020. If you would like to receive additional information as we plan this momentous occasion, please provide your contact information to either Lillian McKinney at mamajoyce314@ icloud.com or (314) 335-9760,
Eric Armstrong at elarmstr@ yahoo.com or (918) 6503385, Sabra Morris-Pernod at Saboots@centurytel.net or (314) 703-0812.
Calling All L’Ouverture School Graduates of June 1962. Our class is hosting an event celebrating our historic L’Ouverture Elementary School. Please join us at our next meeting: March 21, 2020 (Saturday), 2:00 pm at 3245 Geyer Ave, 63104. For information, contact: Evelyn at (314) 773-8702 or Valerie at (314) 664-6270, email: valeriemiller06179@att.net.
Also: Help us make contact with any person who served as staff member at L’O, any time period, up through 2013.
Northwest High Class of 1975 is planning its 45th reunion and requests all 1975 classmates to update their contact information at nwhs75@gmail.com to get additional details. Please save the dates of Friday, October 9 - Sunday, October 11, 2020 in St. Louis, MO. We will see you in October.
Soldan High Class of 1975 Reunion Committee
Happy Birthday to Ms. Ann J Carter, who celebrated her 99th birthday on March 24. With love always, Arthur, Dennis (Joy), Craig (Traci), Steven (Pat), your 12 grands and 10 great-grandchildren.
is currently seeking all classmates to celebrate our 45th high school reunion in September 2020. Please submit your current contact information to Committee members Ms. AnnieSue Preston (314) 606-5618, Mr. Arvell Roberts, (314) 319-4937, or send info to SOLDANCLASS1975@ GMAIL.COM or check out our FB Page, Soldan Class 75. Vashon High Class of 1974 is planning for its 45th reunion. We are in the process of rounding up all classmates. To provide or update your contact
information, please email ljbady@gmail.com or contact: Joe Verrie Johnson 314-6405842, Jordan Perry 314-7244563, or LaVerne James-Bady 314-382-0890. Vashon High Class of 1975 is planning for its 45-year class reunion. All classmates please provide or update your contact information. Please email Millicent, centbyme1@aol.com or Elvis, elvishopson@att.net. You can also send information by mail: Vashon High Class of 1975, P.O. box 8735, St. Louis Mo. 63101. Keep this date open: August 7-9, 2020.
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
As the COVID-19 pandemic brings unprecedented challenges to our region, front-line caregivers and administrative leaders from BJC HealthCare, Mercy, SSM Health and St. Luke’s Hospital remain united in our mission to support the St. Louis community. We are working in close partnership with local and state health departments and our academic medical institutions, Saint Louis University and Washington University Schools of Medicine.
We remain confident that knowledge, vigilance and cooperation will enable the St. Louis community to weather the COVID-19 pandemic together.
BJC, Mercy, SSM and St. Luke’s are collaborating, with guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), and Missouri and Illinois health departments, to give community members access to factual, current information and quality care connected to the novel coronavirus, COVID-19.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
COVID-19 testing
Testing is important to get a clear understanding of how COVID-19 is moving through the region, to reduce the risk of exposure in the community and to determine the appropriate level of care for patients who may be infected.
Following guidelines from the CDC, at this time only those who meet specific criteria will be tested for COVID-19 to make sure limited testing resources are available for those who need them most. Criteria for testing may change as community risk changes.
Should you be tested?
Call your health care provider, the local health department or local hospital to be screened for testing if:
• you have symptoms consistent with COVID-19: fever, cough or shortness of breath AND
• you’ve traveled to an area with a known COVID-19 community outbreak within the past 14 days OR
• you’ve been exposed to a person diagnosed with COVID-19 or who has symptoms consistent with COVID-19
Or take the virtual screening on SSM Health’s site, SSMHealth.com/covid19.
BJC, Mercy, SSM and St. Luke’s have set up drive-through testing sites in St. Louis City, St. Louis County, Franklin County and St. Charles County in Missouri and St. Clair County in Illinois for patients who have been screened and meet the criteria for testing. Collections are by pre-screening only.
CALL BEFORE YOU VISIT YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER, HEALTH DEPARTMENT, HOSPITAL OR TESTING SITE.
Clay Dunagan, MD, MS Senior Vice President and Chief Clinical Officer
Social distancing
One of the most important tools to limit the spread of disease is “social distancing” — or increasing the physical space between people. Staying at least 6 feet away from others lowers your risk of getting COVID-19.
Some ways to practice social distancing include:
• working from home
• socializing online or on the phone
• canceling or postponing parties, reunions, trips or other social events
• avoiding the gym, playground, dog park or other places people congregate
Although it can be difficult mentally, physically and financially, limiting restaurants and bars to carryout/curb service, closing some businesses, canceling festivals and events, and limiting social contact is proven to slow epidemics and save lives. And, as the situation unfolds, guidelines will continue to change.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON COVID-19 AND RELATED ISSUES, CALL OR VISIT: Missouri Department of Health 877-435-8411 Illinois Department of Health dph.illinois.gov/covid19
FOR ADDITIONAL
INFORMATION: cdc.gov/coronavirus/ 2019-ncov who.int/emergencies/diseases/ novel-coronavirus-2019 bjc.org/coronavirus mercy.net/covid19 ssmhealth.com stlukes-stl.com
Keith Starke, MD Senior Vice President and Chief Quality Officer
Hospital visitor policies
BJC, SSM, Mercy and St. Luke’s have adjusted our policies to help protect patients, staff and visitors by limiting the number of people visiting a patient at one time. In addition, visitors to high-risk areas, such as oncology or transplant, may have additional restrictions.
Some of our larger facilities are limiting the number of entrances to the buildings.
Check the hospital’s website (in the box below) or call before your planned visit to find the updated visitor policy. As the situation evolves, policies will likely continue to change.
Elective procedures and doctor visits
BJC, Mercy, SSM and St. Luke’s are reducing the risk to patients by canceling or rescheduling elective surgery, procedures and screenings. An elective procedure is defined as one that can be postponed without causing harm to the patient.
Patients also will be asked to reschedule preventive and elective visits, such as yearly physicals, wellwoman exams or routine follow-ups.
Many of our professionals are set up to provide telemedicine or online visits. Call your provider’s office or visit their website to see if this is an option.
Pulling together
As health care leaders, we are working with a sense of calm caution on behalf of our patients, visitors and each other by working with our employees regarding travel restrictions and screening, canceling or postponing events, and encouraging team members to use technology to virtually attend meetings and stay connected with colleagues in other parts of the country.
Together we can minimize the risk and keep the St. Louis area strong in the face of this challenge. Your cooperation matters.
Alexander Garza, MD, MPH Chief Medical Officer
J. William Campbell, MD Infectious Disease Specialist and Medical Director
ADVERTISEMENT FOR RFP
The City of St Louis Department of Health is seeking proposals for laboratory testing services for blood lead and hemoglobin.
Requests for Proposals may be obtained beginning March 27, 2020, from the City of St. Louis Department of Health, Candace Da Silva, 1520 Market Street-Suite 4051, St. Louis MO 63103, dasilvac@stlouis-mo.gov, (314) 657-1428. Proposals may also be downloaded from the City of St. Louis website at http://www.stlouis-mo.gov/.
All questions must be submitted in writing no later than April 17, 2020, to Candace Da Silva at the information listed above. All questions will be addressed through an addendum posted on the St. Louis City website at http://stlouis-mo.gov/.
The deadline for submitting proposals is April 24, 2020, by 5:00 P.M. to Candace Da Silva at the address listed above. The Department of Health reserves the right to reject any or all responses with or without cause.
The St. Louis County Department of Transportation is requesting the services of well-qualified consulting engineering firms to perform professional engineering services for multiple resurfacing projects.
Full details for those projects, including submittal requirements and deadline, will be available on March 23, 2020 from the St. Louis County Web Site (www.stlouisco.com)
Inspects residential and commercial property for code compliance, including electrical, plumbing and mechanical inspections. Performs plan reviews and issues permits. Other duties as assigned, including acts as the Building Commissioner in the absence of the Director. Must have 5 years experience as an inspector; plan review experience, some supervisory experience; valid driver’s license; no disqualifying criminal history. IBC certified. Starting salary $40,572.00 (GS16-C) NO RESUMES ACCEPTED WITHOUT COMPLETION OF OUR APPLICATION! Completed applications may be mailed, emailed to jobs@cityofjennings.org or faxed to 314-388-3999. Applications accepted until the position is filled. Please include copies of any certifications.
Notice is
St., Room 4065, St. Louis, MO 63103
Public Notice of Single Source Procurement
Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is proposing to procure Firstech for our Walk-in Payment Processing Services for our pay-stations. The District is proposing a single source procurement for this service. Any inquiries should be sent to strenz@stlmsd.com.
Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
CITY OF ST. LOUIS ST. LOUIS LAMBERT INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Solicitation For Bids (SFB) for AC Chiller Repair & Maintenance Services
Bids Wanted
Bid documents may be obtained at St. Louis Lambert International Airport, Airport Properties Division, Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and
Robert Salarano Airport Properties Division Manager
The City of St Louis Department of Health is seeking proposals for an agency providing an FTE registered nurse to conduct immunization services.
Requests for Proposals may be obtained beginning March 27, 2020, from the City of St. Louis Department of Health, Candace Da Silva, 1520 Market Street-Suite 4051, St. Louis MO 63103, dasilvac@stlouis-mo.gov, (314) 657-1428. Proposals may also be downloaded from the City of St. Louis website at http://www.stlouis-mo.gov/.
All questions must be submitted in writing no later than April 17, 2020, to Candace Da Silva at the information listed above. All questions will be addressed through an addendum posted on the St. Louis City website at http://stlouis-mo.gov/. The deadline for submitting proposals is April 24, 2020, by 5:00 P.M. to Candace Da Silva at the address listed above. The Department of Health reserves the right to reject any or all responses with or without cause.
The 22nd Judicial Circuit is currently soliciting proposals for Electronic Monitoring Services for pretrial defendants.
The request for proposals is available on the Court’s website http://www.stlcitycircuitcourt.com click on General Information, then Request for Proposals.
Proposals must be received no later than 10:00 a.m. on Friday, May 1, 2020.
The St. Louis Economic Development Partnership (the “Partnership”) requests
401(a) Plan and a Section 457(b) governmental plan for Partnership employees. A five percent bid preference may be available to certified MBE firms. A copy of the RFP is available on the Partnership’s web site at https://stlpartnership.com/rfp-rfq/. Proposals must be received no later than 3:00 PM on Friday, April 17, 2020. St. Louis Economic Development Partnership Equal Opportunity Employer
The St. Louis County Port Authority (the “Port”) requests proposals for a contractor or multiple contractors to perform certain landscaping, maintenance, and debris-removal services in 2020 for various real property parcels located in St. Louis County. A five percent bid preference may be available to certified MBE firms. A copy of the RFP is available at https://stlpartnership.com/rfp-rfq/.
Proposals must be received no later than 3:00 PM on Friday, April 17, 2020.
St. Louis Economic Development Partnership Equal Opportunity Employer
of Pasadena Hills, MO 3915 Roland Blvd Pasadena Hill, MO 63121
Phone: 314-382-4453
Fax: 314-382-2760
Email: progers@pasadenahills.com
Subject Line: Nadine Ct RFQ
The individual above may be contacted for clarification of the specification of this RFQ only. All contact shall be made in written format, electronically, fax or regular mail.
CONFIDENTIALITY OF RESPONSE CONTENT
All submittals offered in response to this RFQ shall be held in confidence until an agreement is awarded. Following the award, submittals are subject to public release unless the submittal or specific parts of the submittal is exempted from disclosure based on Missouri’s law or unless the appropriate precautions to safeguard trade secrets or any other proprietary information. The City assumes no obligation or responsibility for asserting legal arguments on behalf of potential submitters.
If a submitter believes that a submittal or part of a submittal is confidential than the submitter shall so specify. The submitter shall stamp in bold red letters the term “CONFIDENTIAL” on that part of the submittal, which the submitter believes to be confidential. Vague and general claims as to confidentiality shall not be accepted. All submittals and parts of submittals that are not marked as confidential will be automatically considered public information after the agreement is awarded. All submittals become property of the City and will not be returned to the engineering firm once the award is completed.
CONFLICT OF INTEREST
The Missouri Ethics Law of 1991, § 105.955, RSMo., addresses conflicts of interest. Any attempt to intentionally or unintentionally conceal or obfuscate a conflict of interest may automatically result in the disqualification of the submittal.
DISCLOSURE OF LITIGATION
Each submitter shall include in its submittal a complete disclosure of any civil or criminal litigation or investigation pending which involves the submitter or in which the submitter has been judged guilty.
EX PARTE COMMUNCATION
To insure proper and fair evaluation of a submittal, the City prohibits ex parte communication (e.g., unsolicited) initiated by the submitter to the Mayor, Alderpersons, or City Staff to make inquiries about the progress of this selection process. Submitters will be contacted when it is appropriate to do so. Process inquiries may be directed to Marie Penkake, Grant Coordinator of the City by calling 515-201-4454.
INDEMNIFICATION
The successful submitter shall indemnify, hold harmless and exempt the City, its officers, agents, servants, and employees from and against any and all suits, actions, legal proceedings, claims, demands, damages, costs, or fees incident to work done in connection with this request, which may arises out of a willful or negligent act or omission of the successful submitter, its officers, agents servants, and employees; provided however, that the successful submitter shall not be liable for any suits, actions, legal proceedings, claims, demands, damages, costs, expenses and attorney fees arising out of a willful or negligent act of omission of the City, its officers, agents, servants and employees.
LEGAL REQUIREMENTS
All parties offering submittals shall comply with federal, state and local laws and mandates relative to the preparation of submittals and the services to be provided and all applicable federal laws and regulations. Specifically, the services to be provided are expected to be in compliance with the: American with Disabilities Act (ADA); Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA); Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA); Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA); Health Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPPA) and all applicable federal and state requirements including without limitation, ERISA, the Internal Revenue Code and its Act of 10994 (USERRA), insurance laws and regulations, and state anti-discrimination requirements. All submittals will be presumed to be in compliance with all applicable laws.
SUBMITTAL CONTENTS The contents of the submittal by the successful firm and this RFQ will become part of any subsequent contract award. The successful firm shall be expected to sign a contract with the City. The submittal and this RFQ shall be incorporated by reference into the contract as though fully set forth therein.
RIGHT OF RETENTION
The City of Pasadena Hills reserves the right to retain all submissions and to use any ideas in a submittal regardless of whether that submittal is selected. A submission indicates acceptance by the firm of the conditions contained in this RFQ, unless clearly and specifically noted in the response and confirmed in the contract between the City of Pasadena Hills and the firm selected. Under no circumstances shall a submitter whose submittal has not been accepted be entitled to any claims for compensations. The City reserves the right to hold a RFQ for 90 days without taking action.
SCOPE OF WORK
The City of Pasadena Hills is considering street improvements for Nadine Court. The City is seeking an engineering firm to perform an analysis of the existing street conditions, design a conceptual pavement restoration plan, develop a preliminary cost estimate, and present the findings in a report (“the Project”). The Engineer is also required to prepare a Request for Proposal (RFP), identify, and select the appropriate construction company; however, the City reserves the right to approve or reject the construction company recommended for the project. Selection of the construction contractor will be made using a closed bid process which will be opened and evaluated by the City’s Board of Alderpersons. The engineer will be expected to perform all basic engineering work required for this scope of work.
RFQ DUE DATE
Responses to this RFQ will be accepted until 5:00pm on April 24, 2020. Responses received after this date/ time will not be considered.
PROJECT FUNDING Funding for this project will be provided from various sources as determined and approved by the City’s Board of Alderpersons.
SELECTION PROCESS
The selection of firm will proceed as follows:
From a review of the statements of qualification received, the City intends to invite several firms to be interviewed before making a final selection of a firm for this project. The City desires to interview a firm; that firm will receive notification of the date and time of the interview. The selected firm will then explain to the City its fees and contract conditions. If a reasonable fee cannot be achieved with the firm of choice, in the opinion of the City, the City will proceed with the next firm until a mutually agreed contract can be achieved.
ADDITIONAL
RIP to those lost to coronavirus. Before I get started, I want to send my prayers and condolences to the families of Jazzmond “Jazz” Dixon and Judy Wilson-Griffin They were St. Louis city and St. Louis County’s first casualties of the coronavirus pandemic. As we self-contain and practice social distancing, let us remember that while this unprecedented measure is indeed an inconvenience, we owe it to society to adhere to the orders, for the sake of our health and the health of those around us. We will get through this, but we must work together to keep tragedies like theirs to a minimum. At the present moment, working together to fight the spread of this virus means staying apart. Be sure to keep their memories – and all others lost around the nation and world – in mind when you are fighting the urge to disregard the social distancing orders that are presently the laws of the land.
Partyline via satellite. For the first time in history, all of this week’s Partyline took place from the comfort of my basement couch. I was surprised how many truly entertaining experiences I must report. I was tearing the club up almost exclusively through FB and Instagram Live. Y’all have to forgive us for the photos not being the freshest, mainly because there is no place to catch current nightlife snaps. I liberated my Xbox360 Kinect from its eight-year bid in my utility closet in the hopes that a regular rotation of Kinect Sports Season Two and Street Fighters Uncaged will keep me from emerging from coronavirus captivity shaped up like the Mucinex monster. So far so good. The bad news is that I’m already quietly looking like the Geico caveman about the head and eyebrows. I’ve charged this unibrow and chin hair that might have me with an honorary “beard gang matters” membership to the game. I’ll just keep my newly purchased corporate/newscaster wig on deck next to a blazer that hides my Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle pajama pants in case I get called into a meeting on Zoom. That’s all I can promise. But trust, the minute we get clearance to get out, I’m jumping in front of anybody on Steve Lacy or Marie Simone from Shi Salon’s book, and it’s not safe for anybody in line to get their brows shaped up by Sid, because I’m snatching spots.
D-Nice did that! Okay, now that it’s established that I look an utter mess, let me tell y’all how I had the time of my life, thanks to Facebook and Instagram Live. It took “The Rona” keeping me cooped up in the house, but I finally got to kick it with Oprah, Janet Jackson, J-Lo, Michelle Obama, Usher, Stevie Wonder, Rihanna, Jada Pinkett Smith, Will Smith, Quincy Jones, Lenny Kravitz, Naomi Doug E. Fresh, Chuck D., Diddy and 100,000 others that tuned in, thanks to D-Nice’s epic Instagram Live Club Quarantine spin session Saturday night. What? We were all on the same live! That counts. And they didn’t see me dropping it low as I disinfected my bathroom either. He got it in for 10 straight hours and that side/midsection combo bop to the beat never failed him. I went back on Sunday, but I didn’t stay long, because I was on a lightweight innanet (yes, innanet) scavenger hunt trying to get to Erykah Badu’s bedroom quarantine concert. And leave it to Low Down Loretta Brown/Sarah Bellum to have me on the prowl until early Tuesday morning. I’ll get to that in a hot second. Local DJs in the mix on Live. Since I’m showing some well-deserved love to D-Nice, I might as well keep it going for the locals who hopped on FB and IG Live and slayed. Shout out to BJ the DJ and James Biko for pulling out the actual turntables. And I’m offering up a slow clap to DJ Cuddy, future mix master DJ Tril and Corey Black –who is not a DJ, but has kept me entertained with his Quarantine Lounge shenanigans. And while I’m randomly shouting folks out, let me say congrats to YZ The Singer for making it to Hollywood on “American Idol” last week. I was sorry to see such a short stint from him, but I’m willing to bet there are big things on the horizon. If I missed anyone, trust me, I’ll get to you in the next few weeks. I have time.
At home with Anthony Hamilton. Before I tried unsuccessfully to follow the digital breadcrumbs Badu laid down, I trotted back to Instagram Live to catch Anthony Hamilton and the little piece of show he put on in his living room. Did anyone else catch life at him hollering at his kids to pipe down between songs? I get the vibe he was trying to give off – and I understand that he had limited space because of the couches and the ottoman – but I was still hoping he would catch the Spirit and scoot up and through the whole downstairs. He sounded great though. I was just hoping for more. Badu didn’t disappoint. I haven’t lurked on the internet for like I did for Erykah Badu’s “Apocalypse One: Quarantine Concert” since Limewire was on and poppin’, ’ And although she had me creeping around like a web sleuth searching through my new bae’s social channels for suspicious likes. I’m still sleepy a whole three days later because she threw my schedule off by having me on the prowl. She said be on the lookout at 5 p.m. Sunday, but the show didn’t start until midnight Tuesday morning. Ms. Lauryn Hill, before you absolve yourself, we were in the comfort of our own beds. I had given up on watching the concert – which she performed from the comfort of her bed as well – until my dearest friend sent me a link. It was everything I thought it would be and more – and carried on for three hours. Her bedroom looks exactly like I thought it would, like it was the boudoir of a part-time hippie fortune teller who gives “massages” on the side to make ends meet. There was a huge picture of Yoko Ono, velvets and neon colors and Boho chic lamps with velvet shades and hanging tassels. Her whole band had masks and bandanas fashioned as coronavirus protective face-wear – including the background singers – looking like the robbery scene from “Set It Off.” I always knew Durand Bernar could sing his face off, but if he can hit those notes through the masks, he’s got next in the R&B game. Badu threw down, took her wig off at the request of viewers and sang songs she wrote at seven years old. She took requests that polled songs against each other. It carried on for three hours and nearly all of it was pure life.