St. LouiS AmericAn
Mayor Jones, Spencer to face off April 8th
‘It’s not over by a long shot.’
By Sylvester Brown, Jr.
St. Louis American
A crowd gathered at Mayor Tishaura Jones’ election night watch party on Tuesday March 4, 2025, seemed unusually quiet.
The event was held at Laborer’s Local 42 in midtown St. Louis, and unlike election night parties where guests nervously mingle with food or drinks in hand, this group sat demurely at long white tables.
They watched a huge TV screen that displayed results indicating Jones was destined to finish second of four candidates - far behind the leading vote-getter 8th Ward Alderwoman Cara Spencer.
The mood changed dramatically a little before 10 p.m. when Jones took the stage to raucous hoots and hollers from the crowd.
“We have come too far to stop halfway, and our
See MAYOR RACE,
A7
St. Louis to again shine on 314 Day
By Ashley Winters
St. Louis American
The
314 Day a perfect occasion to celebrate the people, places, businesses, and spirit of unity that make it so special. This year’s festivities kick off on Saturday, March 8, and culminate on Friday, March 14. The week celebrates all things St. Louis with celebrations and special deals highlighting local makers, musicians, artists, businesses,
organizations, and neighborhoods that are proudly #STLMade.
“314 Day continues to grow bigger and better every year — beyond anything we could have ever imagined — uniting people from all walks of life to celebrate and bring positivity to our community,” said Tatum Polk, co-founder of 314 Day.
Polk says this year’s celebration will honor all St. Louis neighborhoods and include various ways St. Louisans cel-
ebrate the local holiday according to their tradition. There will be landing spots where everyone can upload photos and videos online using #314Day.
“This is to see what makes St. Louis, St. Louis for everyone,” said Polk. “It’s more culture-based this year,” he added.
314 Day goes beyond the actual day. For those who have moved out of
Carol Ann Johnson Clay passes at 89
The St. Louis American
Carol Ann Clay, the matriarch of one of St. Louis’ most prominent and historic African American families, has died at her home in suburban Washington, DC.
Carol Clay, a native of St. Louis, MO, was born to Helen Kelley and Jerald Johnson on November 6, 1935. Carol attended Rosati-Kain Academy and graduated from Sumner High School in the historic Ville Neighborhood in 1953. Later that year, Carol married the love of her life, Bill Clay. They were devoted life partners for 71-years. She was a loving and devoted mother to Vicki, Lacy and Michelle. She was also a proud grandmother and great-grandmother.
Carol Clay’s entire adult life was filled with family, friends and politics. During the height of the civil rights movement, she stood shoulder to shoulder in support of her husband as he led the historic Jefferson Bank protests in St. Louis. The fight to establish social and economic justice for minorities, women, the poor and workers was the central force driving and shaping their efforts for seven decades.
In 1955, as Bill was completing his service in the U.S. Army, the couple lived
Many Dems trash Trump during speech
By Alvin A. Reid
Keisha Lee, CEO of Annie Malone
Children & Family Services, was a guest of Congressman Wesley Bell during President Trump’s address to Congress on Tuesday night in Washington D.C.
She saw quite a show, as Democratic House members protested throughout the evening, refused to attend or wore attire directly intended to reach constituents through the nation.
Republicans hold a narrow advantage over Democrats in the U.S. House of Representatives and that house is truly divided.
In a historic show of rebellion against President Trump during Tuesday night’s address to Congress, Democrats either refused to attend, disrupted the “MAGA rally,” or wore protest shirts while sitting stone face and silent.
Bell did not protest during the evening but told Jason Rosenbaum of St. Louis Public Radio interview before Trump’s
The annual Art In Bloom event included many family craft opportunities at The Saint Louis Art Museum on March 2, 2025.
Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American
Mayor Tishaura Jones speaking to the media after learning that 8th Ward Alderwoman Cara Spencer was the top vote-getter in Tuesday’s mayoral primary. The two will now compete head-to-head in the April 8 general election.
Photo by Taylor Marrie / St. Louis American
Carol Ann Clay
Wife
Art In Bloom
Former ‘MTB2’ member sues Diddy, cites ‘cheesecake walk’ in suit
Sara Rivers, a former singer for Sean “Diddy” Combs’ “Making The Band 2,” has filed a new lawsuit against the embattled mogul. The allegations stem from her time on the popular MTV series.
In a lawsuit, obtained by TMZ Hip Hop, Rivers claims the artist formerly known as Puff Daddy subjected her to mistreatment, which wound up becoming content for MTV viewers.
The suit, filed by attorney Ariel Mitchell on behalf of Rivers, cites the infamous “cheesecake” incident from “Making The Band 2,” where she and the rest of Da Band had to walk several blocks to get Diddy a slice of Junior’s Cheesecake as one of the numerous incidents of abuse.
She also complains of being forced to sleep in an open bay with four other males despite the fact she was married at the time, and says she was threatened with being ousted if she didn’t comply.
The suit also names MTV, Viacom and several ex-Bad Boy employees who
had a profile on the series at the time … including Diddy’s mother, Janice Combs, and ex-assistant Fonzworth Bentley.
She also alleges Diddy acted maliciously and recklessly with her career by publicly dismantling the group while pocketing most of her show money – and accuses him of sexual misconduct.
Paul Tazewell makes history with Oscar win
When Paul Tazewell took home the “Best Costume Design” Oscar at the 97th Academy Awards for his work on the blockbuster “Wicked,” he became the first Black man to win in the category.
added an Oscar to his already impressive list of trophies – including a BAFTA, Emmy and Tony Award.
Tazewell’s work spans film, television and the stage – where his career began.
“There was never a Black male designer that I saw that I could follow and could see as inspirational [and] to realize that that’s actually me,”
Tazewell said last night (March 2, 2025) in the press room for the Oscars, according to Ebony.com. “It’s the pinnacle of my career.”
Last night (Sunday, March 2) he
The Akron, Ohio native made his Broadway debut as a costume designer with “Bring in ‘Da Noise, Bring in ‘Da Funk,” in 1996. Twenty years later, he won a Tony Award for “Best Costume Design of a Musical” for Lin-Manuel Miranda’s “Hamilton.” Tazewell became the first African American male costume designer to be nominated for an Academy Award when he earned a nod for his work on Steven Spielberg’s “West Side Story” in 2021.
Offset files for joint custody of children with Cardi B
At the end of last year, Cardi B demanded on social media that estranged husband Offset sign divorce
papers. He said that he would if he was granted joint custody of their children. According to legal documents obtained by TMZ Hip Hop, Offset is moving forward with the process. He requested joint legal custody of the three children he shares with Cardi B. The documents also request the court to explicitly state each parent’s child support obligations, a fair distribution of the former couple’s marital assets and for each party to pay their own legal fees.
Drake and iHeartMedia settle in ‘Not Like Us’ suit
Music star Drake and iHeartMedia have reached a settlement after Drake accused the media giant of accepting payola to boost the popularity of Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” in a pre-action filing. On Monday (March 3), Rolling Stone reported iHeartMedia is no longer a defendant.
“In exchange for documents that showed iHeart did nothing wrong, Drake agreed to drop his petition,” a source at iHeartMedia told Rolling Stone. “No payments were made—by either one of us.”
Sources: TMZ.com, Ebony.com, Variety.com, XXL.com, Rollingstone.com
Paul Tazewell
“I was making it clear to the president that he has no mandate to cut Medicaid.”
- Texas Congressman Al Green on his protests during Trump speech to Congress
City’s crime reduction ignored by GOP legislators
State control hasn’t helped KC
By Alvin A. Reid
The St. Louis American
As Republican legislators continue forcing bills toward the governor’s desk to strip St. Louis residents of the right to control their own police force, the city’s historic decline in crime is now entering its third month.
During the first two months of 2025, there were 15 homicides through March 2, 2025, a decrease of 16 compared to the same period of 2024. Last year, the city recorded its fewest homicides since 2013.
According to St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department statistics, violent crime again fell, including a 36% decrease in burglaries, 42% decrease in auto thefts, and 53% decrease in shooting incidents.
Mayor Tishaura O. Jones, who will face Alderwoman Cara Spencer in the April 8 mayoral election, said “One life affected by violent crime is one too many.”
“[This] is why it is extremely encouraging to see the amount of violent crime continue to drop drastically in St. Louis. We have more work to do, but violent crime is on the retreat in St. Louis, and I am incredibly thankful to the [police department,] the Circuit
Attorney’s Office, the Office of Violence Prevention, and the community organizations and residents who do so much to make St. Louis safer.”
In 2023, city police officers received raises ranging from 8% to 13%, and earlier this year, Jones approved raises of up to 7%. According to the mayor’s office, negotiations on another round of raises are underway “to increase the department’s competitiveness and show the City’s appreciation for our officers.”
The Office of Violence Prevention, which designs and coordinates violence intervention programs, has also been successful in helping reduce crime.
Community organizations including Show Me Peace (de-escalation and life coaching), the Diamond Diva Empowerment Foundation (supporting survivors of domestic violence), and Living in Victory (housing for people recovering from substance abuse) are helping “to stop violence before it happens by helping people get onto and stay on a non-violent path where they can thrive.”
OVP neighborhoods experienced a reported 52% decrease in murders and
Attorney Gabe Gore and
2024, and the first two months of 2025. Gore,
Tracy (rear) and Mayor Tishaura O. Jones at a Jan. 14 press
said “I think we got things heading in the right direction. I think what we’re doing is working and I’d like to continue that work.”
nonnegligent manslaughter from 2023 to 2024, outperforming the rest of the city.
Despite a 43% drop in homicides in St. Louis from 2020 to 2024, state legislators continue their efforts to take away local control of the SLMPD, including a Senate hearing on Wednesday.
The legislature and Gov. mike Kehoe would be ignoring the 63.9% of Missourians who voted for local control in 2012.
Of note, the state saw a drop of 35% in the same period, largely in part to St. Louis’ murder rate decline.
“When given a chance to vote on this issue, Missourians were extremely clear that they believe local police departments should be accountable to local residents. And under local leadership, St. Louis is now becoming a safer city,” said Jones.
“But as it turns out, Missouri Republicans don’t care about the safety or the will of the people of this state.”
The state has control over the Kansas City Police Department, and crime is on the rise, especially homicide.
Last week, Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas told KMOX the state’s police board appointment process in his city has, “at times, led to political appointments rather than ones focused on addressing public safety.”
“Everyone in the city says what holds us back is public safety and I cannot say honestly to anyone in Kansas City, St. Louis, or anyone in Missouri that state control is a better system,” said Lucas.
Missouri Independent columnist Barbara Shelley of Kansas City wrote this
week, “State control reduces accountability, silences the voices of citizens and creates an insular, defensive police structure. Its outcomes cannot be defended. And one can’t ignore the optics of white Republican politicians, many from rural areas, refusing to allow the state’s largest cities, both led by Democratic Black mayors, to control their own destiny.”
“Crime rates are indeed unacceptable in St. Louis, and in Kansas City as well. That’s been the case for decades, and state control hasn’t moved the needle. If the governor really wants to reduce crime, he’ll look at reforming Missouri’s gun laws, providing more mental health services around the state and finding creative ways to promote safety.”
Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American
Circuit
his office helped reduce crime in St. Louis throughout
who was joined by STLMPD Chief Robert
conference,
Guest Editorial Commentary
St. Louis: A city or a colony? Is U.S.
ByJared Boyd
Last year, I wrote about legislative efforts to wrest local control of the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department (“SLMPD”) being rooted in Confederate ideals.
Missouri engineered a state takeover of SLMPD during the Civil War because the then-Governor was a Confederate sympathizer who wanted to ensure the city could not use its force and armory to support the Union. A state-appointed board continued to govern SLMPD until 2012, when voters overwhelmingly approved an initiative petition to provide the City of St. Louis with local control.
In approving the 2012 statewide initiative petition, Missouri voters recognized principles this country was purportedly founded on. No taxation without representation, and local control over local issues.
Unfortunately, Republican legislators and Gov. Mike Kehoe have prioritized a state takeover of SLMPD this legislative session that would turn St. Louis from a city into a colony. Colonies, like those governed by Great Britain before the American Revolution, are places controlled from the outside, rather than from within.
by the Governor to serve on the board, giving those who are bound to defend their union members the keys to making decisions on discipline and pay.
Forget local elections, board members would not even be required to live in the City of St. Louis, with business owners allowed to serve if they live within 50 miles of the city.
Chris Hayes’s 2017 book A Colony in a Nation argues “[t] he American criminal justice system isn’t one system with massive disparities but two distinct regimes: One (the Nation) is the kind of policing regime you expect in a democracy; the other (the Colony) is the kind you expect in an occupied land.”
Whether or not you agree with Hayes’s framework, the current Republican state takeover of SLMPD could turn the city into an occupied land where residents have little say in how they are policed, how it’s paid for, and how wrongs are addressed.
The current legislation being advanced by Republicans, HB 495, has already passed the Missouri House of Representatives, and would replace local accountability of SLMPD with a five-person board. This five-person board would include the Mayor of St. Louis but would also allow the Governor to appoint the remaining four members. The City’s voice would be one fifth as powerful as it is today.
The proposed law allows the two St. Louis police unions to nominate candidates for a panel that would be selected
Republican justification for state takeover of SLMPD is weak and suspicious. They have admitted that the state takeover of SLMPD is not a crime plan. At first, they argued that high crime rates motivated their efforts, but homicides are down over 40% since 2020. Next, Republicans argued that officer pay was an overriding factor in moving for state takeover. Inconveniently for Republicans, SLMPD officer pay has increased 15-20 percent in the last year, the largest jump in two decades. Now, Republicans are arguing that recent population loss in St. Louis justifies a state takeover. This new argument is puzzling, because St. Louis lost over 500,000 residents from 19502010 when the police department was under state control. The real reason for the state takeover of SLMPD is based upon campaign contributions and lobbyists. A West County resident, Mike Rayner, has spent millions of dollars supporting a state takeover of SLMPD. Rayner has used his family’s vast resources to hire nearly 20 lobbyists this legislative session to push for SLMPD state takeover and contributed over $2 million to various state Republicans campaigns since last year.
Large campaign contributions from a West County resident are no substitute for local accountability. Public safety remains one of the most important electoral issues. If residents do not like how they are being policed and feel less safe, they generally will vote for new leaders to do so. Under state control, residents would be forced to lobby four unelected officials who may not even live in St. Louis.
We are in a moment where a Governor, who received less than 20% of the vote in St. Louis, wants to take control of our city. It is time to ring the bells of alarm –the Republicans are coming for St. Louis, and they want to turn it into a colony.
Jared Boyd is chief of staff, St. Louis Mayor’s Office
EMERITUS LEADERSHIP
Nathan B. Young (1894-1993) Founder N.A. Sweets (1901-1988)
a democracy or a republic?
By Larry Smith
Suppose that you’re walking down the street and you come to an intersection. There is a man standing there with his dog. You sidle up next to him and say, “Hey, nice dog!” Now suppose that the man looks at you, smirks, and says, “This isn’t a dog. It’s a German Shepherd.” Presumably, you would look at the person quizzically before slowly backing away. While that analogy is imperfect, its’ basic premise holds vis-à-vis the popular debate regarding the type of government that we have in the U.S. Specifically, there are many people who claim that this nation is “not a democracy;” rather, “it’s a republic.”
The problem with that argument is, well, it’s wrong. For at least two reasons. One is the fact that a republic is a subset of democracy, which renders the argument wrong both factually and logically. Further, most people who make that argument cite (usually unspecified) “Founding Fathers” to make their case.
This is a classic logic fallacy known as “an appeal to authority” (i.e., what people often do when they don’t have an actual argument).
To help clear things up, some definitions are in order. First, what is a republic? James Madison offered a pretty clear definition in Federalist 39:
“…we may define a republic to be, or at least may bestow that name on, a government which derives all its powers directly or indirectly from the great body of the people, and is administered by persons holding their offices during pleasure, for a limited period, or during good behavior.
Every democracy that exists today fits the Madisonian definition of a “republic.”
Thus, practically speaking, there is no difference between a republic and a democracy. In short, being a democracy and being a republic is not contradictory; as suggested above, a republic is a subset of the broad category of government known as a “democracy.”
This leads to our other definition. Democracy is a broad term. In its most basic form, it means that nations have “free and fair elections” to choose the people who will lead them. (The English word “democracy” comes from two Greek words that together mean “the people have the power” or “the people rule.”) Our form of government is often defined as “Western liberal democracy.” Unfortunately, this has become a problematic phrase because millions of people in this country have no idea what the word “liberal” means in that context. This is in counter-distinction to nations, such as the absurdly named “People’s Republic of China” or “Democratic People’s Republic of Korea” (aka North Korea).
China and North Korea are communistic nations. They have elections which are neither free nor fair.
Finally, it can be credibly argued that a republic is any form of government that is not a monarchy or a fascist state.
A single ruler literally owns the government and, by extension, the people. Those people usually have little freedom and even fewer rights. Tragically, in some cases, a majority of a population has actually chosen this form of government.
Sadly, many of these people believe that being a Democrat (i.e., a member of one of two major U.S. political parties) is inherently less legitimate than being Republican (i.e., a member of the other major U.S. political party). But being a Republican or a Democrat has almost nothing to do with the forms of government from which they long ago derived their names.
This nation is at an intersection. Or, better yet, we’re at a crossroads. In the end, it doesn’t really matter whether we are a democracy or a republic if we’re tilting towards authoritarianism. We must avoid that at all costs.
Larry Smith is a political columnist for the Indianapolis Recorder
Roberta Flack helped us find our voice
By Marc Morial
“I’m deeply saddened that many of the songs I recorded 50 years ago about civil rights, equal rights, poverty, hunger, and suffering in our society are still relevant in 2020. I hope that people will hear these songs in a new way as they connect to their lives today, to this pandemic, to the growing economic disparities, to Black Lives Matter, to police brutality, to activism versus apathy, and the need for each of us to see it and address it.” – Roberta Flack
From the time she was a 4-year-old girl in Black Mountain, N.C., Roberta Flack dreamed of having her own piano. But her parents couldn’t afford one. When she was 9 and her family was living in Arlington, Va., her father spied a beat-up old upright piano in a junkyard. He brought it home and painted it green. That green piano – later immortalized in Flack’s children’s book, The Green Piano: How Little Me Found Music –launched the child prodigy into one of the most remarkable and influential careers in American music history.
faced as an R&B singer in the late ’60s, ’70s and ’80s, performing and discussing songs advocating human rights for gay men and women.” music critic Eric Weisbard wrote. She was one of the many guest performers on the feminist children’s entertainment project Free to Be … You and Me, performing “When We Grow Up” with Michael Jackson on the 1974 ABC television special.
Her commitment to creating opportunities for children – especially Black girls – was rooted in her own challenges. When she had the opportunity to produce her own records – one of the first Black women ever to do so – she used the pseudonym “Rubina Flake” – a glamorous “concert artiste” alter ego she’d dreamed up during her childhood.
Flack, who died last week at the age of 88, was perhaps best known for her chart-topping romantic ballads, “Killing Me Softly” and “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face.”
But her defiant performances addressing war, racism, sexism, LGBTQ rights, and other social issues led Rev. Jesse Jackson – whose Operation Breadbasket she supported – to call her “socially relevant and politically unafraid.”
The first track on her debut album, First Take, released at the height of the Vietnam War in 1969, asked was the protest ballad, “Compared To What.” On that same album – recorded before the Stonewall Riots – she turned the campy musical theater number “Ballad of the Sad Young Men” into a gay rights anthem.
“There is no way to fully emphasize the political risks Roberta Flack may have
“Rubina helped Roberta endure the indignities faced by gifted black children in the South, as when she’d sing “Carry Me Back To Old Virginny” for contest judges in hotels where she wasn’t allowed to stay the night,” NPR music critic Ann Flake wrote.
Even against those odds, she earned a full music scholarship to Howard University when she was just 15, graduating at 19. She later founded the Roberta Flack School of Music, to give students in The Bronx, New York, the opportunity to receive free music lessons. She was a pioneer of the blend of jazz, blues, soul, and pop music that became known as “Quiet Storm,” but she continued to defy categorization until ALS, sometimes called “Lou Gehrig’s disease,” cruelly robbed her of her voice in the last few years. Her artistic, activist, and philanthropic legacy is endless, but best summed-up by her advice in Green Piano: “Find your own ‘green piano’ and practice relentlessly until you find your voice, and a way to put that beautiful music into the world.”
Marc Morial is National Urban League president and CEO
Guest Columnist Larry Smith
Guest Columnist Jared Boyd
Columnist Marc Morial
CSF Grassroots Funding application portal open
St. Louis American
St. Louis County Children’s Fund (CSF) is accepting applications for its 2025-2027 Grassroots Funding Opportunity.
Eligible organizations include registered 501(c)3s and government agencies that provide behavioral health services to children and families in the St. Louis region. Letters of intent can be submitted through noon Tuesday March 31, 2025. Interested applicants can find a list of all funding criteria and the letter of intent link on CSF’s website at https://stlcsf. org/ CSF plans to invest up to $4.5 million into the community over a 27-month period as part of the allocation. The maximum funding request for returning Grassroots funded partners is $180,000, and for new applicants, it is $150,000.
“This is our third round of the Grassroots Funding Opportunity, and we are thrilled to be once again increasing our investment to further support community-based nonprofits that are providing important behavioral health services to kids and families in St. Louis County,” said Emily Koenig, executive director of CSF. Programs funded through the Grassroots Funding Opportunity must fall under one of CSF’s focus areas, which includes crisis intervention, respite care, substance use treatment and therapeutic and non-therapeutic counseling, among others. Inpatient medical, psychiatric and chemical dependency services and transportation services are not eligible
CSF’s Grassroots funding allocation began in 2021 as a $2 million investment. In the last cycle, over $3.6 million was invested in 29 organizations.
Examples to embrace
By Marian Wright Edelman
As a child, the great theologian Howard Thurman treasured spending time alone under a beloved oak tree in his yard: “I could sit my back against its trunk and feel the same peace that would come to me in my bed at night.”
Dr. Thurman came to understand that the business of the oak tree during the long winter was to hold on to the dead leaves before turning them loose in spring so that new buds — the growing edge — could begin to unfold. At winter’s end, what wind, storm, sleet, or snow could not force off passed quietly away to become the tree’s nourishment.
My parents were like that oak tree. Throughout most of our history, many Black families have been like that oak tree. Despite enormous assaults and pressures, Black parents and elders were sturdy, constant presences determined to hold on and persevere long enough to prepare the next generation and give them a better life.
During Black History Month, many Americans take time to honor and celebrate the extraordinary achievements of individual African Americans. This remains true even in the face of the newest sanctions on observances recognizing American history made by Americans who were not heterosexual, white, or male.
But for many African Americans, honoring Black history includes honoring the elders and ancestors in our own families whose perseverance, strength and joy in the face of every assault we’ve already faced got us to this moment.
Black elders saw children and young people through the unspeakable trauma of enslavement. The late beloved historian John Hope Franklin and others reminded us that traditional myths about slavery destroying Black families are a lie: the slavery system and individual enslavers may have done their very best to try to destroy the families in their control, but it did not work.
Parents and elders saw Black children and young people through Reconstruction and did their best to shield and protect them during the dark days of Jim Crow, mob rule and lynchings. Throughout segregation they constantly reminded us we had dignity and worth. Long before the phrase became popular, we were reminded that Black was beautiful.
Andrew Young, a former member of Congress, former mayor of Atlanta and former United States ambassador to the United Nations, was asked in an interview to describe what the current moment in our nation feels like to him.
‘Lord, I don’t feel no ways tired,” he said.
“We have come too far from where we started from. And nobody ever told us that the way would be easy, but I don’t believe He brought us this far to leave us. And I’m not worried. I’m not anxious. It’s just another struggle. My parents taught me to deal with the slights and oppression. My father’s mantra was, don’t get mad, get smart. He said if you lose your temper in a fight, you lose the fight, and that your mind is the most powerful thing you have.”
This is yet more wisdom from Black history and elders to embrace right now. We have come too far from where we started from. All of us can continue to hold on to examples and lessons like these to encourage us to renew our strength in order to strategize for the current struggle.
Marian Wright Edelman is founder and president emerita of the Children’s Defense Fund.
A Red Circle St. Louis, which includes the North County Agricultural Education Center, was recipient of STL County CSF Grassroots funding support.
Photo courtesy of NCAEC
Marian Wright Edelman
speech, “Democrats ae united.’
“As a caucus, we have decided that some folks are going to protest in a different way and some folks are going to be right there in our House to show how [Trump’s agenda] impacts the American people that we are all supposed to be up here fighting for,” he said.
“In years past a person like me didn’t have the ability or the privilege to be on the House floor. We’re not going to have someone run us out, out of the people’s House, our House.
“Were fighting together collectively. I’ve never seen Democrats more united. We’re going to move forward in that vein and do everything we can to protect and fight for the interest of regular working families.”
While Bell chose a moderate approach, “Resist,” was the word of the night carried on many pink shirts worn by House members.
Democratic Texas Rep. Jasmine Crockett, a St. Louis-area native, attended the beginning of Trump’s speech wearing a shirt with a picture of Shirley Chisholm, the first African American woman in Congress, and the words “unbought and unbossed.”
She would leave shortly thereafter in a sym-
314 Day
Continued from A1
state or the country, it is a great way to stay connect-
bolic walkout with some other Democratic House members.
She said they attended for a brief period because “we earned these seats.”
“We are going to fight [Trump] tooth and nail. We are going to combat all the lies, and we are going to continue to serve the people that even went out and elected him to their own dismay,” said Crockett.
Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York and Democratic leadership were absent from the escort committee that usually walks with the president into the House chamber. Jeffries spokesperson said the action “speaks for itself.”
Before Trump began speaking, Rep. Rashida Tlaib of Michigan held up a whiteboard with the words, “That’s a Lie.”
Democratic U.S. Rep. Al Green of Texas waited only minutes before walking into an aisle while waving his cane at the president and shouting. While Republican demonstrations during speeches by President Barack Obama went unchecked, House speaker Mike Johnson had Green removed from the House chamber.
Many Democrats then removed jackets revealing slogans “Resist.”
Florida Rep. Maxwell Frost’s shirt read, “No More Kings.”
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York wrote online “I’m not going to the Joint Address. I will be posting
ed. Each year, the special day has over 35,000 users of the hashtag. Some of this year’s signature events include: All-faith Prayer March around the Arch; 314 Day
Celebrating ‘Fat Tuesday’
The St. Charles Mardi Gras parade took place on Main Street Saturday, March 1, 2025. Fat Tuesday, held the day before Ash Wednesday, is a time for Catholics to celebrate before beginning the Lenten season.
live and chatting with you all here instead.
“It’s a MAGA pep rally,” said U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy. “We have to fight every single day, every single day.”
Vermont U.S. Rep. Becca Balint (D), who refused to attend, said “I watched [Trump] take an oath to uphold and protect the Constitution. All he did
Coffee Kick-Off with local coffee makers, a comedy show featuring St. Louis area performers, a special 314 Day Brunch, and a 314 Day Celebration at the NinePBS Studio.
was spew lies, stoke division, and make no effort to unify our country.
“I won’t sit and watch him lie to the American people again.”
When asked what she would say to the president, Crockett said “Grow a spine and stop being Putin’s hoe,” referring to Trumps betrayal of Ukraine and his support
Local businesses across the region can add their events, celebrations, and special deals to the official event calendar in the days leading up to 314 Day at theSTL.com/314day. All are invited to celebrate the Lou Day and share their love for St. Louis on social media using the hashtags #314Day and #STLMade.
Terrell “Dip” Evans and Tatum Polk created 314 Day in 2006 with the vision of bringing St. Louis together to celebrate the positive things happening in the city. Since then, it has evolved into the official regional holiday shared by all local cultures, as well as organizations and businesses large and small throughout the unique communities and neighborhoods that make up the St. Louis Metro. The 314 Day Foundation was established in 2021 to unite residents, business owners, and natives in a day of positivity and community spirit.
In honor of 314 Day 2025, The 314 Day Foundation, in partnership with the STLMade initiative, held its second
of Russia’s communist leader.
Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski, who represents part of the Metro East said Trump “failed to present concrete solutions to address rising costs for working families.”
“With egg prices soaring and tariffs threatening our farmers, the President should be focused on mak-
annual 314 Day Design Contest. Visual artists and illustrators across the region submitted samples of their existing work for consideration to create the official 314 Day 2025 design. The winning artist, Chelsey Farris, has created a unique piece of art inspired by her love of St. Louis that will be splashed across t-shirts, stickers, and bags to celebrate 314 Day. Commemorative t-shirts will be available in the official 314 Day shop at the WOW Market, 3333 Washington in Grand Center.
“St. Louis is the best city in America. While we celebrate that every day, 314 Day is a special opportunity to show our pride across the region,” said Tony Wyche, spokesman for Greater St. Louis, Inc. “We encourage people to join the celebration by supporting a local business or restaurant or simply sharing local pride on social media to let everyone know why St. Louis is the place where everyone can start up, stand out, and stay.”
One of the most
ing life easier, not harder. I remain focused on standing up for Medicaid recipients worried about losing care, for teachers and parents terrified of cuts to public education, for farmers concerned about the president disrupting their markets, and for families across the country who want a better tomorrow for the next generation.”
anticipated events is the throwback party paying homage to the 90s and early 2000s club scene in the Lou at the Hawthorne. The event will honor local DJs and other artists from that time. For all the foodies, 314 Day has partnered with Elicious Restaurant, Northwest Coffee, Latte Lounge, Grace Meat + Three, and Prime 55, to name a few. But it’s not all about the party scene. Polk says they will be donating food to the unhoused community.
“Our day is non-stop for Dip and I,” said Polk. “We’re promoting all the great things about St. Louis but also how we can give back.”
The foundation has taken it a step further by partnering with area hospitals; babies born on March 14th will get a graphic onesie that says ‘Born on 314 Day. ’ Speaking of birthdays, next year, 314 Day turns 20! The 314 Day 2026 event’s theme is ‘Homecoming.’ “It will be family coming home and friends,” said Polk.
Photo by Taylor Marrie / St. Louis American
Mayor race
Continued from A1 communities are tired of seeing investment in half measures, and politicians who only care when it’s election season,” Jones said.
“St. Louis is and always will be my home, and I will never stop fighting to make sure that we continue to grow and thrive.”
Spencer tallied more than twice as many votes as Jones, although voters could choose more than one candidate in the “ranked preference” election.
With just over a month until the April 8th general election, Spencer had won 68% of voter support compared to Jones’ 33%.
The two other candidates, Recorder of Deeds Michael Butler and retired Republican businessperson Andrew Jones received
Clay
Continued from A1
in Alabama. One hot summer day, it was Carol who forced the integration of the base swimming pool at Fort McClellan.
In the early days of their marriage, Carol put in her time and charm to make the “Glow Worm,” the tavern that she and Bill owned, a successful business and a beloved community gathering place.
When Bill Clay became the first African American
25% and 14% of the votes respectively, which means both are out of the race.
Election day turnout, like the rainy weather, was abysmal.
According to the St. Louis Board of Election Commissioners, just 34,913 of 196,340 registered voters cast a ballot in the election.
The turnout and vote totals for the vanquished candidates give hope to the Mayor Jones campaign.
A jubilant Spencer told supporters at The Post building “I could not imagine such an enormous margin without such an incredible team.”
While she consistently peppered attacks on the city’s snow and trash removal in January, Spencer said, “this mayoral election is about so much more than potholes and trash - but those are reminders we can do better.
“I would also say that
elected to the U.S. House of Representatives from Missouri in 1968, Carol answered the call to serve too, providing her husband with unwavering strength and support as their young family moved to Washington, DC. In addition to their advocacy for workers’ rights, voting rights and economic inclusion, Congressman and Mrs. Clay traveled the world, meeting heads of state and two popes. Carol called herself the domestic engineer of the house, was an
we’re not better off than we were four years ago in many, many very visible ways, and residents know that.”
For Jones to overcome Spencer’s momentum, she will likely need a larger turnout of voters on April 8. She will also need to convince Butler and Jones’ supporters to vote for her.
Butler said Tuesday night he would now be supporting Mayor Jones.
“I think that St. Louis still has a good future ahead of it,”
“I think we affected the campaign greatly. Our messaging resonated throughout the campaign, and I see a lot of changes at City Hall and [with] other candidates that took on our campaign’s message.”
Jones and Spencer competed in the 2021 general mayoral election with Jones receiving 25,388 and Spencer winning 20,659 of the votes.
excellent cook and enjoyed entertaining guests. Carol earned a Ph.D. in life and shared with her kids and grandkids the importance of treating people with respect and also demanding that same respect from others.
In 1976, she co-founded the Congressional Black Caucus Spouses Organization. In 1988 the Spouses established the CBC Spouses Scholarship Fund program to provide tuition assistance to college students which has assisted in educating thousands of young people.
Throughout her campaign Jones stressed the unprecedented millions her administration has invested in street safety infrastructure, economic empowerment, housing development and beautification programs; and the dramatically decreased homicide and youth-involved shooting rates.
Spencer seems to have struck a chord with voters by claiming Jones had torn down homeless encampments, failed to adequately respond to deaths at the City Justice Center and failed to deliver basic city services such as trash pickup, pothole fillings and snow and ice clearings.
“I don’t think all hope is lost,” Jones ally Aldermanic President Megan Green told reporters. She noted that voter turnout was much lower than it was in the 2021 general election and added that a good portion of Butler voters will merge
Carol was also a co-founder of the William L. Clay Scholarship and Research Fund in which she played a leadership role in raising the funding and served on the board of directors.
She was a lifelong learner, an amazing woman filled with class, culture, kindness and the honesty that was true and just.
She is survived by her husband, former Congressman William L. Clay, Sr.; children Vicki (Michael Jackson); Lacy (Patricia); Michelle (Henry
under Jones in the upcoming general election. In February, Jones and Butler had endorsed each other as the second choice for their supporters.
Surrounded by reporters, Jones answered how she plans to defeat her well-funded, vote-leading opponent, Spencer.
“Well, we must show people who Cara really is and remind them of what I inherited when I became mayor and what I’ve been trying to fix for the last four years. You have to set a foundation for growth, and you can’t do that by changing your leaders every four years,” Jones said.
On stage, Jones confidently reiterated that theme:
“It’s not over by a long shot. We’ve got another 35 days.”
Comptroller’s race
While incumbent
Rorie). She was beloved by five grandchildren: Angela Thomas (Juan); Michael Alexis; H. Clay Rorie; Carol Bennett (Lance) and William Clay, III; as well as two great grandchildren, Ryan and Anthony Alexis, III. She was also loved by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws and friends.
Carol Clay faced her final illness with uncommon courage, dignity and faith…returning her spirit to her God on February 16, 2025. She was a true woman of valor whose legacy will continue to
Comptroller Darlene Green, who has held the office for 30 years, finished second to challenger Donna Baringer in the municipal primary, the duo will face again on April 8 and Green is only slightly behind in votes.
Baringer garnered 16,664 votes and Green received 16,117.
Celeste Metcalf won 8,541 votes, and the comptroller’s race could come down to who can snare most of her supporters.
“I’m grateful for all the voters who voted for me and who came out for me in the rain,” Green said in a statement.
“We’ve got great momentum going forward into the general.”
Baringer told St. Louis Public Radio on Tuesday, “I was able to get the message across of the importance of the comptroller’s office, and that it’s time for change.”
inspire her family, friends and all who loved her. Memorial events are pending in both St. Louis, Missouri and Washington, DC. Contributions to honor the memory of Carol Ann Clay are appreciated to the William L. Clay, Sr. Institute of Civic Engagement and Economic Justice at Saint Louis University: https:// qrco.de/ClayMemorial Carol Ann Clay’s obituary was provided to the St. Louis American by the Clay family.
Photo by Taylor Marrie / St. Louis American
Cara Spencer celebrates with her campaign team Tuesday night after winning 68% of the vote campared to Tishaura Jones’ 33%.
An afternoon of affirmation for greater equitable economic inclusion
The 23rd Annual St. Louis American Charitable Foundation Salute to Excellence in Business Networking & Awards Luncheon, co-presented by the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis, Greater St. Louis Inc., and supported with other business sponsors, highlighted outstanding individuals who are entrepreneurs, corporate executives, non-profit leaders as well as the work of those in the St. Louis business community that maintain their commitment to increasing opportunities for all people in all communities across the region.
A completely sold-out audience of nearly 450 people joined in the recognition and celebration of Black business excellence on February 20, 2025 at the Ritz-Carlton St. Louis ballroom.
Non Profit Executive of the Year Michelle D. Tucker, center, with Raven Whitner of the St. Louis American Foundation and Michael McMillan, CEO of the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis
Excellence in Community Impact
Awardeee Chris Krehmeyer, president and CEO of Beyond Housing
Everett Johnson, principal and senior director, Edward Jones
Photos by Wiley Price, Taylor Marrie, and Maurice Meredith – Additional Salute photos online
Emcee Rene Knott, co-anchor of Today In St. Louis KSDK-TV
The sold-out crowd enjoying themselves at the 2025 Salute to Business Networking Reception.
Entrepreneur of the Year Rodney Boyd, partner, Nexus Group
Lifetime Achiever in Business Larry Thomas (retired partner, Edward Jones)
Corporate Executive of the Year Jeremy Williams, head of climate corporation and digital farming at Bayer
Dr. Donald M. Suggs, Fred Sweets, Larry Thomas and Michael McMillan
St. Louis County Councilwoman Rita Heard Days and Reyna Spencer, corporate philanthropy and community impact manager, Ameren
U.S. Cong. Wesley Bell, St. Louis County Executive Sam Page and Marco Tipton, community development manager, Ameren
Larry Thomas, center, with members of his family and friends
Adrian E. Bracy, second from left, takes a selfie with banquet attendees.
Harris Stowe State University President Dr. Tonia Collins Smith
St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones and St. Louis City Treasurer Adam Layne
Danielle Smith, director of diversion and special programs for St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office
Peter Neirdorff and Tom Bailey of the Urban League of Metropoltan St. Louis
Aleta Grimes Mitchell
Former three-time world boxing champion Devon Alexander and Rich Svindland, president, Missouri American Water
Keith Williamson, president, Centene Foundation and Rachel Powers, partner, Opportunity Trust
STLCC helps remedy regional nursing shortage
Opens new Nursing-Health Sciences building
St. Louis Community College has opened a new nursing building on its Florissant Valley campus, and students can now experience real-life situations, such as the urgent healthcare procedures that occur in ambulances, thanks to new technology and simulations.
By Namratha Prasad
St. Louis American
St. Louis Community College opened its doors to a new Nursing and Health Sciences Center on Feb. 27 on the Florissant Valley campus.
“[The building] is great to get a real-life feel of what it’s like to be at a hospital,” Chancellor Jeff L. Pittman told the St. Louis American after he was joined by faculty members in cutting a ribbon on a fourth-floor multi-purpose room.
“There are 2,500 vacancies in nursing alone [regionally]. We need to elevate all of these programs.”
The new building marks the first of six to be opened by the college, as part of the STLCC Transformed initiative. It will bolster STLCC’s addition of new technologies and modernize its four main campuses.
The construction of the new 100,000 square foot building began in July 2023, and cost just over $62 million.
“The Nursing and Health Sciences
An unhealthy twist
Popular box braid brands have harmful chemicals
By Jennifer Porter Gore
Word In Black
The braided hairstyles many Black women and children wear are popular for their beauty and ease of maintenance. But a consumer watchdog’s laboratory analysis has found that the synthetic hair frequently used for box braids and faux locs may carry a price beyond the stylist’s fee.
A study from Consumer Reports found that each of the 10 most popular synthetic hair braiding products sold in the $2.7 billion market contained chemicals linked to cancer. Several of the test samples also tested positive for lead as well as harmful substances like acetone, which is used to strip paint. Black women are the primary users
Center is more than just a building,” Pittman said in a press release on Feb. 27. “It is a carefully thought-out space that will support healthcare education at STLCC.”
The construction was funded through Proposition R, an 8-cent tax levy approved by St. Louis city and county voters in 2021, as well as a grant from the state of Missouri.
Dr. William Hubble, distinct dean of health sciences at the college, said
See NURSING, A11
Keep active as spring rolls in
By Dr. Graham A. Colditz Siteman Cancer Center
We’ve made it past Groundhog Day — again — but whether Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow or not, winter can often feel unending this time of year. Across the country, we’ve had long stretches of cold temperatures and bad weather. And even when things start to defrost, the days can feel too short and the nights too long. This combination can make it harder to keep up with regular routines, including being physically active.
But there are many good reasons to work on staying active through winter. On top of the benefits of health and wellness, maintaining our routines can also prepare us to enjoy springtime activities when the days finally turn nicer. We’ll have energy and fitness for long walks around the neighborhood, family bike rides to check out daffodils at the local park or pick-up ball games with our kids or grandkids. Almost any type of movement can have benefits. But given the ongoing winter weather, indoor activities and exercises can often be the simplest — and safest.
Indoor sessions can feel a bit bland compared to getting outside, especially when you’re inside week after week this time of year. That makes it important to find activities you really enjoy. If one activity doesn’t click, try another. Be creative and keep experimenting. There are many options that count as physical activity, and you’re likely to find some — and maybe many — you really like.
Local recreation centers can have stretching and cardio classes, open gym hours and exercise equipment, like treadmills, bikes and ellipticals. Malls or big box stores can offer special hours for walking groups. And streaming sites can have a huge variety of online exercise videos that can be followed at home.
If none of these sounds good, just taking regular standing breaks throughout the day can have benefits.
One good way to stay consistent with our activity through winter is
See COLDITZ, A11
of these products, and people of African descent are the largest group of consumers of hair wigs and extensions. The brands tested included Magic Fingers, Sassy Collection, Sensationnel, Shake-NGo, and many others. Commonly called “protective styles,” braids are an attractive style option for Black women because they can be worn for weeks at a time and the wearer can have a durable hairstyle that doesn’t need styling every day. One of the brands, Kaneka, became so popular that its Kanekalon product was name-checked in a song that went viral on TikTok
Two years ago, Chrystal Thomas, a student at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine and the City University of New
See BRAIDS, A11
Black women are the primary users of synthetic hair braiding products, which has a $2.7 billion annual market. Consumer Reports found that the 10 most popular brands contain chemicals linked to cancer.
Photo by Namratha Prasad / St. Louis American
Image courtesy of The Right Hairstyles.com
Graham A. Colditz, M.D.
‘Taking Care of You’
Nursing
Continued from A10
the renovations will be helpful for communities in north St. Louis county as well as around the region, where nurses are in demand.
The Missouri Hospital Association, which creates a report on vacancies in hospitals around Missouri, found that there are over 3,000 vacancies in various nursing positions in
Braids
Continued from A10
York, began to wonder if the Kanekalon product, and synthetic hair in general, was actually good for her hair.
“I couldn’t sleep well, my throat felt irritated, and I had trouble focusing on any type of work I was doing because of the smell,” she told Consumer Reports. “The smell wouldn’t go away even after washing my hair multiple times.”
Although women typically wear braids for around six weeks, Thomas removed her braids after roughly 10 days. A public health student, she decided to research possible health issues tied to braiding hair. Her findings were published in a commentary article about the risks of carcinogenic materials in hair products for Black women
“What is unique about braid extensions is the length of exposure users have to them,” Thomas says. “Synthetic braids are typically worn
Colditz
Continued from A10
hospitals in the St. Louis region. Though vacancies have dropped since last year, the association said problems still remain as the numbers still have not reached pre-pandemic levels.
“STLCC plays a significant role in meeting the healthcare workforce needs in our region. Through the programs at the new center, we’ll train and prepare medical professionals for these careers that are in high demand,” Hubble said.
As part of the new building, new technology includes the treatment area of an ambulance and human mannequins that can cough, blink and model human behaviors - each of which cost over $80,000 apiece.
“In addition to our exceptional faculty, STLCC students will have access to state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and simulation spaces in order to become the competent and qualified medical professionals our
Known, Probable, and Possible Carcinogens Detected
community relies on,” said Hubble.
He added that the new building will also allow for more students to be accepted into programs, leading to more diverse healthcare providers to help marginalized communities around the region.
“We’re trying to create pathways to an associate’s degree,” he said.
“Then the hospitals they work at will help them get their bachelor’s degree. It’s an affordable
BRAND MODEL PROBABLE POSSIBLE
Ruwa 3X PreStretched Kids Braid 12’’
X-Pression 3X PreStretched Braid, 58’’
Chloroform, methylene chloride, styrene Naphthalene
Methylene chloride, styrene, 1,2-dichloroethane
Magic Fingers 3X Pre-Stretched Braiding Hair, 52” Methylene chloride, 1,2-dichloroethane, styrene
Sassy Collection 100% Kanekalon Jumbo Braid
Shake-N-Go
FreeTress 3X PreStretched Braid 301, 34”
Hbegant Afro Twist Pre Fluffed Wrapping Hair, 24”
Shake-N-Go Organique Mastermix Water Curl Weave, 30’’
Debut Wavy Hair Weave, 20”
Lulutress Crochet
Chloroform, methylene chloride, styrene Naphthalene
Carbon tetrachloride, chloroform, methylene chloride, styrene
Methylene chloride, 1,2-dichloroethane
Methylene chloride, styrene
Methylene chloride, styrene
Braid Passion Twist, 12’’ Methylene chloride, styrene
Darling Flexi Rod Curls Crochet, 14’’
Methylene chloride, styrene
This graphic is republished courtesy of Consumer Reports / Word In Black
for about four to six weeks. Black women and other individuals who use synthetic hair are, therefore, exposed to those ingredients consistently during that time.”
In a statement, the Kaneka Co., said it “only manufactures the Kanekalon fibers that are used in various hair products, such as synthetic hair
braids and wigs, and does not produce any of the final products.”
The company told Consumer Reports that other companies then take the Kanekalon fibers and process, dye, customize, and distribute the actual final products that consumers then purchase.
James E. Rogers, head of CR’s product safety
Ethylbenzene, isopropylbenzene, naphthalene
Isopropylbenzene, naphthalene
Ethylbenzene, naphthalene
Isopropylbenzene, ethylbenzene, naphthalene
Ethylbenzene, isopropylbenzene, naphthalene
Ethylbenzene, naphthalene
testing, led a team that tested the synthetic hair using samples from 10 of the most popular products. The team tested the samples for heavy metals and volatile organic compounds, with disturbing results.
All of the samples had chemicals linked to cancer, and nine out of 10 samples contained lead, a known
to set an accessible and specific goal to slowly work toward. Maybe that’s building from one gym class per week up to three a week by the end of March. Or building from 20 minutes of walking on the treadmill three days a week to walking 40 minutes three days a week. Or moving from doing little or no planned activity to streaming two stretching and core classes per week. And, of course, if you ever have any questions about fitness or health, contact a health professional. It can also really help to have the support of friends and family. This can mean going to the gym or streaming a class together or simply sharing our goals and the progress we’re making. The activities themselves can be more fun when we’re with others, and it can help keep us on track since we know others are also following our progress.
And the more regular we can be with our activities, the easier it can often be to fit into our schedules. When our treadmill time or basketball games become a normal part of our week, we’re less likely to skip them when work and family life get busy.
way to get their licensing.”
Among the other buildings projected to be built in coming years include a Health and Technology Center on the Wildwood campus, an Advanced Manufacturing Center at Florissant Valley, a Financial Services Education Center and an Emerging Technology Center at Meramec and a Transportation Education Center on the Forest Park Campus.
neurotoxin that can cause brain damage. The team also found chemicals with suspected links to cancer, as well as chemicals whose toxicity levels are still being studied.
Even more problematic: all 10 samples also contained high levels of volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, which are typically used to make paints, pharmaceuticals, and refrigerants. If they are heated — a common part of the braiding process — the artificial hair releases VOCs into the air.
The American Lung Association reports that breathing VOCs can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat, cause nausea, and damage the central nervous system, as well as cause cancer in some instances.
Three products contained a VOC called benzene, a known carcinogen that causes leukemia.
“It is strictly regulated and discouraged to use in laboratories because of its potential to cause cancer,” Rogers said. Two products contained an animal carcinogen, and
While winter may feel like it’s on a loop right now, before long the days will get noticeably longer, and the temperatures will warm. And the activity we’ve put in through the coldest months will help us really enjoy some great springtime outings.
“This building is going to touch a lot of lives,” Hubble said. “Not just the students, but to those they provide care for in the community.”
Namratha Prasad is St. Louis American Comcast NBC-Universal Fellow/ Reporter
The new building has already welcomed students, and the public dental clinic will be open in the fall, with radiology students being admitted in the spring to stagger admissions.
all the samples contained a probable carcinogen, methylene chloride.
CR also tested the braiding hair samples for heavy metals, including arsenic, cadmium, and lead. None of the products had detectable arsenic but nine of the 10 products tested contained lead. Rogers, the lead scientist, said that those nine products “could expose a regular user of any of these products to a level of lead that could be concerning over time.”
The EPA and other healthcare agencies advise that exposure to any amount of lead is unsafe for children and adults. With prolonged exposure, lead can cause significant health issues. Lead can damage the brain and nervous system and has been linked to immune system suppression, reproductive issues, kidney damage, and hypertension. This is especially crucial for children who can suffer developmental delay and impaired brain development when exposed to lead.
Dr. Graham A. Colditz, associate director of prevention and control at Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, is an internationally recognized leader in cancer prevention and the creator of the 8ightWays® to Prevent Cancer series.
STLCC Chancellor Jeff L. Pittman cuts a ribbon in the new Nursing and Health Sciences center on its Florissant Valley Campus on Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025. Pittman said the new facility will help address an acute shortage of nurses in the St. Louis area.
Photo by Namratha Prasad / St. Louis American
Questions or comments? Contact Cathy Sewell csewell@stlamerican.com or
CLASSROOM SPOTLIGHT
Students at The American’s Summer Science Academy work in teams to discover the many different computer programming languages.
SCIENCE CORNER
What Are Fungi ?
Fungi are organisms made of filaments (called hyphe) that are stacked together. Unlike plants, fungi do not have chlorophyll, so they cannot make their own food. Some fungi are parasites, which mean they live off of other organisms. Some fungi feed off of dead and decaying matter. Fungi are everywhere in the environment, including the soil, lakes, river and seas, air, and on plants and animals. Fungi (plural of fungus) help organic matter to decay and release carbon and oxygen into the environment. Unlike plants, fungi do not have
SCIENCE INVESTIGATION
In this experiment, you will learn how mold grows best. Mold is an important fungus that has several uses, including breaking down dead organic material. Some purified molds are actually used as an antibiotic to treat illnesses.
Materials Needed:
• 3 slices of bread • Water • 3 Ziploc bags
• 10x10 square centimeter grid • Ruler
Process:
q Wet one slice of bread enough to make it moist and place it in a bag. Seal the bag very tightly.
w Place the two other slices of dry bread in two separate bags and seal them, as well.
e Place the bag with the wet slice of bread and one of the bags with a dry slice of bread in a dark place, such as a closed cabinet or closet.
r Place the third bag with a dry slice of bread in the refrigerator.
MATH CONNECTION
leaves, stems, or roots. Fungi use spores to reproduce. One common type of fungus is the mushrooms you find on your pizza. Mold, yeasts, and mildew are also types of fungus.
For More Information, Go to: https://kids.kiddle.co/Fungus
Learning Standards: I can read nonfiction text to gain background information about fungi.
Growing Mold!
t For five days, measure the square centimeters of mold on each piece of bread through the bag. Use a grid, if possible, or a ruler. If mold covers more than half a square centimeter, it is counted as one full centimeter. If it is less, it is counted as 0 centimeters. This will give you the area of mold on each slice of bread y At the end of a week (5 days of measuring) or longer, use your final results to say what percentage of the bread was covered in mold. Make a table or graph to display the information.
Discussion Questions: How much mold was on the bread? Which location had the most mold? Which had the least? What conclusions can you draw about the conditions in which mold grows? How can food manufacturers and restaurant owners use this information to help them?
Learning Standards: I can follow sequential directions to complete an experiment. I can display my results, make observations, and draw conclusions.
Analyzing a Bar Graph
Scientists often use tables and graphs to display the results of their research. Looking at these displays, you can draw conclusions.
As we approach spring weather (and increased rain), create a bar graph that displays the amount of rain that falls for several consecutive days or weeks. (Day 1: 1.5 inches, Day 2: 0 inches, Day 3: 1.5 inches, etc.)
Discussion Questions: Which day had the most measured rainfall? Which day(s) had the least? Looking at the bar graph, what might you conclude about rain patterns in March/April? What other observations can you make?
Learning Standards: I can use a bar graph to display information. I can use the information to make deductions and inferences.
This special Newspaper In Education initiative is made possible, and delivered to classrooms through the St. Louis American Foundation and its NIE Corporate Partners:
There are over 10,000 species of mold, with 1,000 of those species found in the United States.
SCIENCE STARS
AFRICAN-AMERICAN MYCOLOGIST AND EDUCATOR: Jeanette Jones
Jeanette Jones was born on September 19, 1950, in Fort Valley, Georgia. Jones graduated from Fort Valley State University in 1972 with a bachelor’s degree in biology education. In 1973, Jones received her master’s degree in botany and mycology (a branch of biology that studies fungi) from The Ohio State University. In 1976, she received her doctorate (Ph.D.) degree.
She also studied at the University of Nevada, the University of California Medical School, the National Center for Disease Control-Atlanta, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. After graduation, Alabama A&M University hired Jones as an assistant biology professor. In 1986, she served as an adjunct professor in the College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Services at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University and worked on a project with NASA. In 1991, Jones served as the first female vice president of research and development at Alabama A&M University. She also served as President of Alabama A&M University’s Faculty Senate from 2001 to 2006. In 1992, she was appointed to the U.S. Army Science Board by the U.S. Secretary of the Army, Togo West. Since 2004 Jones has been the director of the Center for Biomedical, Behavioral, and Environment Research at Alabama A&M University. She also worked as a consultant with federal agencies to help them develop training programs to attract women and minorities to STEM education and careers.
In 1975, Jones was listed in the World’s Women’s Who’s Who and she was named an Outstanding Young Woman of America in 1978. Beta Beta Beta National Biological Honor Society awarded her the distinguished service award. Jones also received the Significant Service Award from the NASA Space Life Sciences Training Program and the Extramural Associate Research Development Award from the National Institute of Health. In 1990 and 2006, she was named Woman of the Year at Alabama A&M University and was given the Outstanding Leadership Award by the Faculty Senate. The U.S. Army presented Jones the Commander’s Award for Outstanding Civilian Service as a member of the Army Science Board.
Discussion Questions: Dr. Jones received many awards and honors. How would you describe her achievements and her contributions to science? Dr. Jones is studying how fungi might be used as agents of war. What purpose do you think fungi serve in modern warfare? Are fungi beneficial or harmful?
Learning Standards: I can read a biography to learn about an African American who has made contributions in science, math, technology, or engineering.
Use the newspaper to complete the following activities: Types of News:
Use the front section of the newspaper to evaluate the types of news stories presented: local, national, and international. Sort the articles into the three categories and create a bar graph that displays the amount of coverage each type of news story received.
Mystery Story: Cut out several pictures from the newspaper without reading the caption. Place the pictures in a bag, and without looking, pick your mystery picture from the bag. That’s your stimulus for writing. Construct a graphic organizer to identify the 5Ws (who, what, when, where, and why) of your story by looking at your picture. Then, continue the writing process.
Learning Standards: I can use the newspaper to locate information. I can categorize and summarize that information.
Bridging careers
Ranken Jordan Hospital welcomes Kim Buie as new CFO
By Ashley Winters
The St. Louis American
Kim Buie brings more than 25 years of experience to Ranken Jordan Pediatric Bridge Hospital in Maryland Heights as its new chief financial officer (CFO).
During her two decades with Anheuser-Busch InBev she honed her financial strategy and operations expertise. Following her time in the corporate world, she transitioned to nonprofit leadership, serving as chief financial officer for Youth in Need for five years. Youth In Need provides residential group homes, homeless street outreach, early childhood education, infant, child and family development,
n
“I realized that my true purpose was to serve in a capacity that directly impacts the lives of children.”
– Kim Buie
youth and family counseling and support groups, teen parent services and foster care case management for children of all ages and their families.
Little did she know she was preparing for a new world of financial leadership at Ranken that will help change the lives of young people and families gallantly triumphing over physical and
mental challenges in their respective lives. Now at Ranken, she will oversee the hospital’s financial operations, ensuring sustainable growth and financial stewardship while supporting the innovative programs and services that define Ranken Jordan.
The only hospital of its kind in Missouri Ranken Jordan specializes in caring for children and their families with the most complex conditions, illnesses, and injuries, bridging the gap between hospital and home.
The St. Louis American had the opportunity to chat with Buie as she discussed her plans for the hospital and her passion to help others.
St. Louis American: What are your
See BUIE, B2
STL Planning Commission crafts new land use guideline
By Ashley Winters The St. Louis American
The City of St. Louis Planning Commission has approved an overhaul to the city’s Strategic Land Use Plan (SLUP), which Mayor Tishaura O. Jones says “will serve as a guiding legal document on how to best use the land and development.”
“It’s been 20 years since St. Louis last comprehensively updated its land use plan, and best practices for building cities have changed drastically in that time,” said Mayor Jones.
“Over the past century, American cities have increasingly prioritized cars and sprawl, becoming less inhabitable to the people who actually live here. With the new SLUP, we are truly turning a corner in making St. Louis a more walkable city full of life and growth. This new plan is one part of the hard work in the city to reverse decades of population loss through quality investment in people and place.”
The plan will:
• Promote development and mixes of uses near existing and planned bike, pedestrian, and transit infrastructure.
• Support active uses (e.g., restaurants, retail, and offices) on ground floors in key corridors so they are walkable and vibrant.
Midwest BankCentre promotes Lisa Morgan
Lisa Morgan
Midwest BankCentre has promoted Lisa Morgan to senior vice president, commercial lender, community & economic development. Morgan has played an essential role in expanding financial access and driving economic growth for small businesses, nonprofits, and underserved communities. A Florissant native, Morgan will continue to focus her efforts on the north St. Louis region. With over 40 years in banking, including 25 in mortgage and commercial lending, Morgan has led initiatives that expand financial opportunities, strengthen community partnerships, and drive economic growth in historically underserved neighborhoods.
Walker is Goldman Sachs ‘One in a Million’
Krishna Walker
St. Louis attorney Krishna Walker has been accepted into the Goldman Sachs One Million Black Women: Black In Business program. Walker has owned her law firm since 2016, taking on only a small number of business clients each year. A graduate of the Notre Dame School of Law, Walker was selected as a legal Rising Stars for 2016 – 2018 by Super Lawyers. This peer designation is awarded to a select number of attorneys in each state. The Rising Stars selection process considers peer recognition, professional achievement in legal practice, and other cogent factors.
Busby of BGCSTL honored by Enterprise
Deneen Busby, vice president of marketing and communications for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis (BGCSTL), was recently honored as an Exceptional Neighbor presented by Enterprise during the St. Louis CITY SC home opener on Feb. 22, 2025. The Exceptional Neighbor award highlights individuals who make significant strides in four key areas: Youth Development, Community Investment, Health and Wellness, and Arts and Culture.
Dawson joins YWCA Metro St. Louis board
Adrienne Dawson
The YWCA Metro St. Louis has welcomed four new board members, including Adrienne Dawson, of MilliporeSigma, where she has served 30 years as an administrator. Joining her as new board members are Kim McBride, vice chair Edward Jones; Jeanne Dee, Anders CPAs + Advisors; Emily Chu, FergusonFlorissant School District; and Julia Eikerenkoetter, YWCA Head Start Policy Council.
YWCA Metro St. Louis is the oldest and largest women’s advocacy organization in the region and serves 10,000 women and families annually.
(including
Kim Buie brings more than 25 years of experience to Ranken Jordan Pediatric Bridge Hospital in Maryland Heights as its new chief financial officer (CFO).
Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American
Deneen Busby
Photo courtesy of SLUP Intagram
Buie
Continued from B1 plans in your new role at the hospital?
Buie: My primary goal is to advance our financial strategies to ensure that we can continue to provide exceptional care for our patients. I plan to implement initiatives that enhance operational efficiency, optimize resource allocation, and support the hospital’s mission of reimagining what is possible and inspiring life-changing solutions for patients and families.
By leveraging my experience and passion for serving children, I aim to contribute to the hospital’s growth and success, ultimately helping more children with complex medical needs live their best lives.
SLAM: What type of experience do you bring as the new CFO at the
SLUP
Continued from B1
• Ensure residents are supported to remain in their communities through growth and change.
• Allow a greater variety of community-serving uses in many neighborhoods, including supporting the historic pattern of neighborhood-serving businesses tucked in between places where people live (as currently seen on The Hill).
• Support a range of different building shapes and sizes, including historic buildings and new construction, across the city.
“The city can set rules that make it easier to build things like housing, gro-
Ranken Jordan Pediatric Bridge Hospital?
Buie: My career spans over two decades, starting with a solid foundation in accounting from James Madison University, where I graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Business Administration. I began a two-decade-long career with AnheuserBusch InBev, where I advanced into senior financial leadership roles, gaining extensive experience in financial planning, operational efficiency, and strategic initiatives. While my career at AnheuserBusch InBev was thriving, I was also fortunate enough to hone my skills and furthered my education with an Executive MBA from Washington University in St. Louis Olin School of Business.
In addition to large for-profit enterprise experience, I also served as the CFO for the nonprofit Youth in Need, overseeing a $30 million operating
cery stores, and restaurants near bus and light rail stops, so people have more choices about how to get around the city and access what they need,” said Miriam Keller, city planning executive - general planning and design.
“[We can] prohibit new gas stations where the pedestrian experience is really important, and instead encourage small businesses. Also the city can use its funding tools to attract key services to neighborhoods where people don’t have what they need.”
Data has shown that when population changes in the city, it tends to show a significant trend upward in neighborhoods where people have walkable access to services and amenities, Keller said.
pared you for this role?
Buie: At AnheuserBusch InBev, I gained invaluable experience in financial management, strategic planning, and operational efficiency within a large multinational corporation. This experience taught me how to navigate complex financial landscapes and implement effective strategies. As the company grew and evolved, I learned to change and adapt to its new systems, new leadership, and new methods, all while maintaining the integrity of my work.
does it connect to you on a personal level?
budget and leading transformative initiatives across various key functions, including facility oversight, vendor management, information technology, regulatory compliance, and process improvements. I think this diverse back-
Don Roe, executive
director of the Planning & Urban Design Agency called the new plan “a big step for the city.”
“This plan gives us the solid foundation we need to take on the big, long-overdue project of updating the city’s zoning code. Alongside the great neighborhood planning work underway, the SLUP gives us a north star for what we’re trying to achieve as we create a modern, 21st-century zoning code,” he said.
The SLUP will make it easier to build new housing across the city. SLUP calls to increase the supply and diversity of housing options, including through “missing middle housing,” housing types like Accessory
ground helps to manage and optimize the financial strategies at Ranken Jordan while keeping the heart of the mission at the forefront.
SLAM: How have your previous positions pre-
Dwelling Units (ADUs), and universally-designed, aging-friendly housing.
SLUP also calls to lower the barriers for more people to be involved in housing development, for example by creating pre-approved housing plans that anybody could use to build quality housing in their neighborhood, and by modernizing zoning rules so the approvals process is not so cumbersome or confusing.
“Our zoning code has not been holistically updated in more than 70 years, and it is often a barrier to constructing new housing,” Keller said. SLUP will create clear goals for housing, and also set the stage for a long-overdue update of St.Louis City zoning code. Later this year, the
Ranken Jordan similarly has maintained a consistent trajectory of growth and evolution. Being someone who learned early and often how to roll with the changes, I’m grateful for the opportunity to participate in, as well as contribute to this growth.
SLAM: What is the story behind your applying for the position and how
Planning and Urban Design Agency will also seek adoption of an updated Sustainability & Climate Plan, as well as the Transportation & Mobility Plan, the first plan in decades to re-envision how transportation infrastructure is built and maintained in St. Louis, and which will support the City’s strategic efforts to make our streets more people-friendly. After approval, both the SCP and TMP will become part of the City’s Comprehensive Plan, alongside the SLUP. Other policies, strategies, incentives, and other public and private investments will advance the implementation of these guiding documents. Implementing many of these ideas will rely on zoning changes. The City
Buie: After spending my entire professional career at Anheuser-Busch InBev, I felt a recurring nudge to align my work with my passion for helping children. Through prayer, reflection, and conversations with mentors and friends, I realized that my true purpose was to serve in a capacity that directly impacts the lives of children. When I delved into the hospital’s work, I was profoundly moved by the stories of the patients and the impact of the hospital’s mission. This connection to my heart and purpose made me an easy one. The moment I walked through those doors, I knew that I had made the right decision. This place does not feel like any other hospital. It’s play, fun, and healing. I couldn’t be more grateful for the warm welcome that I received from this incredible team.
will next be working to overhaul its zoning code to ensure that the regulations for development fully align with community priorities. This process will include further community engagement in the coming months. “We know there is a lot that plays into where people choose to live, but when it comes to land use, we see that creating a range of convenient places to shop, play, work, and learn is an important piece of the puzzle for supporting current residents and attracting future residents,” said Keller.
To view the SLUP plan, please visit www. slup-stl.com/slup-parcelmap
Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American
n “Sometimes things can go way better than you think.”
– Optimistic L.A. Angels manager Ron Washington on upcoming season
InSIdE SportS
Earl Austin Jr.
With
‘KIPPing’ up with district hoops tournaments
Let’s tip off this week’s column with Earl’s World up front. It’s time to give out a few “Shout Outs” for postseason excellence
The girls basketball team at KIPP St. Louis gets one for winning a Class 3 district championship last weekend. It was the first district championship in the school’s history…Soldan High’s boys team earned one by winning its Class 3, District championship. The Tigers are led by first-year head coach Jason Boyd…The girls basketball team at Principia College who won the SLIAC Tournament championship last weekend to earn a berth in the NCAA Division III Tournament. It was a first in the history of the program for both the league championship and the NCAA berth. Principia, which is led by head coach Ramiro Dominguez, has 10 players from the St. Louis metro area…. The Southeast Missouri State men’s basketball team won the Ohio Valley Conference regular season championship. The Redhawks won the OVC title by two games. They were led by former CBC standout Rob Martin, who scored 31 points in a victory over SIUE in the game that clinched the conference title.
actual brackets, you can visit the website, mshsaa. org.
Class 6 Boys Championship Games on Monday night
District 1 (at SLUH)
District 2 (at Kirkwood)
District 3: (at DeSmet)
District 4: (at Timberland)
Big Storyline: The big story is in District 3 where Metro Catholic Conference rivals DeSmet and Chaminade are on a collision course for a third meeting. Both were Final Four teams last season.
Class 5 Boys Championship Games on Monday night
District 2: (at Vianney)
District 3: (at Westminster)
District 4: (at Wentzville Holt)
Big Storyline: District 2 will be hotly contested with Webster Groves, St. Mary’s and Vianney in the mix. District 3 is also strong with John Burroughs, Ladue, Westminster and Hazelwood East in the fold.
Class 4 Boys (Championship Games on Friday night)
District 4 (at Clayton)
District basketball competition continues this week with the larger schools taking center stage around the St. Louis area.
Here is a brief look at this week’s Class 4,5 and 6 district tournaments along with a few big storylines. If you want to see the
Class 6 Girls
(Championship Games on Monday night)
District 1 (at Lindbergh)
District 2 (at Lafayette)
District 5 (at Miller Career Academy)
District 6 (at MICDS)
District 7 (at St. Charles West)
Big Storyline: Can Vashon win a fifth consecutive state championship? The Wolverines are the top seed in District 5.
District 3 (at Incarnate Word)
District 4 (at Fort Zumwalt West)
Big Storyline: The team to beat once again will be national powerhouse Incarnate Word Academy. The Red
Knights won a national record 141 games. Now, they will be seeking a fifth consecutive state title.
Class 5 Girls (Championship Games on Monday night)
District 1 (at Cape Girardeau Central)
District 2 (at Webster Groves)
District 3 (at Ladue)
District 4 (at St. Dominic)
SportS EyE
With Alvin A. Reid
Big Storyline: After winning the Class 4 state championship last season, Lift for Life is now up at Class 5. They are the top seed in District 2 with a strong Cardinal Ritter team as the No. 1 seed.
Class 4 Girls
District 4 (Championship Games on Friday night)
District 4 (at Lutheran South)
District 5: (at Miller Career Academy)
District 6 (at MICDS)
District 7 (at Orchard Farm)
Big Storyline: Class 4 is wide open around the state of Missouri. Ursuline Academy enters the postseason with the No. 1 ranking in the state. UA is the top seed in District 4.
Kennard Davis heading home for Arch Madness
Vashon product Kennard Davis Jr., the SIU-Carbondale Salukis second-leading scorer and team assists leader this season, found himself in an unusual spot during the Jan. 5, 2025, game at Illinois State – the bench.
In a “Coach’s Decision” situation, SIU-C coach Scott Nagy kept Davis out of play the entire game, an embarrassing 85-54 beatdown by the Redbirds.
During the regular season, Kennard averaged16.3 points and five assists per game.
In the following game on Jan. 8 at favored Belmont, Kennard’s allaround effort was part of his team’s valiant upset bid, but the Salukis fell 80-76. Davis had responded by working on his conditioning, improving his play, and becoming the leader his team desperately needed.
“I worked on building team chemistry, exercising, worked on my body,” he said following a win at Missouri State.
“I feel like my energy is contagious. If I’m playing really hard my teammates play really hard.”
Davis was named the Missouri Valley Conference Player of the Week beginning January 20 after averaging a team-high 21 points and nine rebounds as the Salukis chalked up wins at Missouri State and at home against Northern Iowa. Davis finished the two-game stretch shooting 57.1% (16-28) from the floor, 46.7% (7-15) from three-point range, and 75% (3-4) from the free-throw line. He scored a career-high 24 in a win over Northern Iowa and notched his third double-double of by adding 10-rebounds against the Panthers. The sophomore had 18 points, eight rebounds, and three 3-pointers during a road win at Missouri State.
A four-year letterwinner at Vashon, Davis arrived at SIU-C as The Missouri Basketball Coaches Association’s Class 4 Player of the Year. A First Team All-
Vashon alum Kennard Davis Jr., scored a career high 24 points to lead SIU-Carbondale over Missouri State on Jan. 14, and was named MVC Player of the Week.
Conference honoree, Davis never ended a season with a loss, with Vashon winning four-straight Missouri state championships. His Salukis are a long shot in the MVC Tournament, but following his benching, he’s been hitting a lot of big shots.
MVC enjoys STL
In a Q&A with the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, MVC Commissioner Jim Jackson said the conference, teams and fans enjoy the Arch Madness experience, and he wants it to remain part of St. Louis sports culture. “I’m hoping that we can
be here forever,” he said.
“It’s been a fantastic marriage, and one that we’re very appreciative of, and one that I know our fan bases are excited to have the opportunity to continue to partake of, because St. Louis is really right in the middle of our conference geography, and I can’t think of a more appropriate place for us to host that championship.”
The Reid Roundup
The MVC Arch Madness Tournament will bring (three) African American coaches to St. Louis seeking the title after challenging seasons. Roger Powell and Valparaiso closed at 13-18 overall, and 6-14 in the MVC… David Ragland and Evansville were 11-19 and 8-11 in conference play, and Cuonzo Martin returned to Missouri State as head coach this year and posted a 9-22 overall and 2-18 MVC record… KU guard Zeke Mayo, a gleam of hope in a dismal Jayhawks’ season, admittedly played poorly in a home loss to Texas Tech last Sunday. Then he received a number
of racist and threatening social media attacks immediately following the game…Could someone remind Auburn’s Black players, especially Player of the Year candidate Johni Broome, that coach Bruce Pearl called Vice President Kamala Harris “trash” during the presidential campaign…Earlier this season, Georgetown coach Ed Cooley and a Xavier fan had a faceto-face argument on the sideline during the game.
“An opposing team’s fan was verbally attacking one of my players. While nothing physical happened, I will always protect my players if they are threatened.” The Hoyas, 16-13 overall and 7-11 in the Big East are vastly improved this year under Cooley… Former Missouri wide receiver Luther Burden III was perfect in “The Gauntlet” receiving drill and posted an impressive 4.42-second 40-yard dash with a top speed of 22.8 mph during the NFL Combine in Indianapolis last weekend. The effort should guarantee a firstround selection during the 2025 NFL Draft on April 24-26 in Green Bay.
Earl Austin Jr.
Alvin A. Reid
KIPP St. Louis girls basketball team moved closer to a district championship by beating DuBourg Saturday night 45-35 at Hancock High School.
Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American
Photo courtesy of Salukis Sports
Schnucks Markets ‘Springboard’ seeks second cohort applicants
Schnuck Markets, Inc., in partnership with Mid-States Minority Supplier Development Council, is seeking its second cohort of local and diverse-owned businesses to participate in the Schnucks Springboard accelerator program.
To qualify, owners must:
• Own a privately own company with a consumer-packaged good product
• Have existing retail sales
• Offer a product that’s never been carried by Schnuck Markets, Inc.
• Meet food safety and insurance requirements by December 31, 2025, for participation in the shelf trial.
Those accepted will receive onsite business development classes at Schnucks’ St. Louis headquarters as well as networking opportunities. Businesses who meet all requirements, including third-party certification when applicable, will also get
$5,000 of equity-free funding and an in-store product trial at select Schnucks stores in 2026.
“We look forward to welcoming our second cohort to Schnucks Springboard and, ultimately, introducing their products to our custom-
ers,” said Schnucks Senior Director of Merchandising Enablement and Supplier Diversity, Adrian Moore.
“We extend a special thanks to our partners at Mid-States Minority Supplier Development Council for helping develop connections between corporations like Schnucks and businesses throughout our community.”
Schnucks Springboard began accepting applications for its first cohort in early 2024 and named the first 10 participants this past summer. Products from those companies will soon appear on shelves of select Schnucks stores for a trial run.
Diverse-owned is defined as at least 51% owned, operated and managed by a U.S. citizen or legal U.S. resident that is a member of one or more of the following groups: Woman, Disabled, Black American, Asian American/Pacific Islander, Native American, Hispanic American, LGBT and/or U.S. Military Veteran.
To apply, greater St. Louis, Missouri/Illinois metropolitan area business owners should visit schnucks.com/springboard prior to March 31, 2025.
MBDA to celebrate Women Business Leaders on March 29
In honor of Women’s History Month, the Missouri Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) has announced the honorees for the 2025 Tribute to Women Business Leaders Brunch at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, March 29, 2025, at the Marriott-St. Louis Grand Hotel, 800 Washington Ave.
The event will recognize the extraordinary accomplishments of
women who have demonstrated exemplary leadership, innovation, and dedication to their respective fields.
The 2025 honorees are:
• Ada Taylor, Deer Valley Home Health Services
• Marie Yancey, St. Louis Lambert International Airport
• Kendra Burris-Austin, Centene Corporation
• St. Louis County Council Chair Shalonda
Webb
• Katrina Scott, World Wide Technology
• Darlene Davis, Davis Associates CPAs
• Annie Mbale, World
Trade Center St. Louis
• Tamara Maxwell, Exim Bank
This year’s program features a keynote address by MacDella Cooper, Minister of State for Presidential Affairs, Executive Mansion, Capitol Hill Republic
of Liberia, and Senior Political Advisor to the President of Liberia.
In 2024, Madam Cooper was listed as one of the most powerful and influential women in Africa. Kelley Hoskins, of Fox 2 News, will serve as this year’s Mistress of Ceremonies.
“The Tribute to Women Business Leaders Brunch is an opportunity to celebrate the outstanding contributions of women who
are shaping the future of business and driving positive change in their communities,” said Todd Gilyard, Missouri MBDA director.
“We are thrilled to honor this incredible group of women and to welcome such a distinguished keynote speaker.”
The Tribute to Women Business Leaders Brunch is an annual celebration hosted by the Missouri
MBDA to spotlight the achievements of exceptional women leaders across various industries. The event also provides a platform for networking and inspiration, uniting professionals, entrepreneurs, and advocates for equality in business. Visit https://missourimbdacenter. com/ or contact pr@ missourimbdacenter.com for ticket information.
From left, Daryle L. Johnson, vice president of Strategy, Mid-States MSDC; Adrian Moore, senior director of Merchandising Enablement & Supplier Diversity, Schnuck Markets, Inc.; and Demetrius Glover, president and CEO, Mid-States MSDC joined in March 2024 to announce the first Schnucks Springboard. Schnucks is seeking applicants for its 2025 cohorts through March 31.
Photo courtesy of Schnucks Markets Inc.
Living It
The hottest under the sun
Lil Wayne and his hip-hop squad blaze the stage
By Zaria McDonald
The St. Louis American
Before he declared himself “The Fire Man,” rap star Lil Wayne was a Hot Boy. Joining the New Orleans hip-hop collective at the tender age of 14, he was the youngest member of the crew. Nearly 30 years later, Wayne is a towering figure in contemporary rap. His skills and lyricism sell out arenas – including Enterprise Center last week (Friday, Feb. 28).
For the St. Louis show, Wayne shared the spotlight with The Hot Boys, his original partners in rhyme, as he performed his past and recent hits.
Hip-hop concerts bring out the STL trendsetters – and Friday night was no different. They were draped in everything from custom Hot Boys t-shirts, jeweled hoodies and denim to match and stylish miniskirts. True to hip-hop’s brand, there was no shortage of stylish footwear. Airmax, Jordans of every variety adorned their feet as they buzzed outside the arena about what songs they were most excited to hear.
Beloved homegrown hip-
hop media personality DJ Cuddy of 100.3
The Beat got the party started. He has been moving through the airwaves for years – reaching as far south as Dallas and as far west as Vegas. He and Yomp, a radio host at 100.3 The Beat, were a tag team as they hyped the crowd and brought energy levels through the roof as the audience filed in. Cuddy played favorite hits from the 2010s with a few current tracks shuffled in.
As his set neared it's end smoke began to fill the air, in part from the fog machines the other from goodies brought in from home. But before it ended, his set transitioned to the 90s, starting with fellow New Orleans rapper Master P’s “Break ‘Em Off Something” to set the
See Wayne, C3
Hallelujah and history
‘Lift Every Voice’ provided context for Black resistance and the Black church
By Kenya Vaughn
The St. Louis American
A moment of comedy at the beginning of the St. Louis Symphony’s IN UNISON Chorus annual Black History Month concert turned into a fulfilled prophecy Friday night at Stifel Theatre.
“If you thought this was the Lil Wayne concert, now would be an okay time to sneak out. No one will judge you,” IN UNISON director and the evening’s conductor Kevin McBeth told the audience after the show’s opening performance of “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” “Although if you stay, you might learn something.” McBeth’s premonition about imparting knowledge on the audience came true early in the concert – before the featured artist, Grammy winning gospel star Donald Lawrence and his ensemble of singers, took the stage. Lawrence brought the house down – and created both an “amen” and a “hallelujah” chorus. IN UNISON leaned on history.
“You are in for a treat,” McBeth said. “And I just want you to know that we are continually committed to celebrating Black history – because as you all know, Black history is American history.”
After their annual tradition of performing “Lift Every Voice,” which has varied in arrangement and performance styles over the years, the concert paid homage to Black women. This happened through music, an acknowledgement of an icon within the Civil Rights Movement and an
‘I’m not looking for a man to pay my bills. I’m not looking for a bag.”
- Tracee Ellis Ross on her choice in partners
R&B staple Angie Stone fatally injured in car crash
Grammy Awardnominated singer, songwriter and actress was 63
By Kenya Vaughn The
St. Louis American
Within the field of R&B music, singer/songwriter Angie Stone was both an innovator and a legacy keeper. Her career started as a hip-hop pioneer and continued as an R&B staple who paid homage to women R&B singer/ songwriters of the 70s and 80s. Stone died in a car crash in Montgomery, Alabama on the early morning of Saturday, March 1. She was 63.
American
Grammy-winning gospel artist Donald Lawrence and his ensemble of powerhouse singers helped the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and St. Louis Symphony’s IN UNISON Chorus bring the house down for ‘Lift Every Voice.’ Lawrence was the 2025 featured guest soloist for their annual Black History Month performance that took place at Stifel Theatre on Friday, February 28.
intersection of music and the movement composed by a Black woman.
Accompanied by the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, IN UNISON performed “The Word Was God,” by Rosephanye Powell.
The selection was an homage to the 19th century Negro Spiritual. The perpetual canon – rounds of singing that include staggered starts among the choir’s voice ranges – and rigid staccato cadence were a throwback to the songs and performance style made famous by the Fisk Jubilee Singers and other groups from that era.
The concert’s tribute to Margaret
Allison Bonds was a more literal celebration of Black History. The chorus and the symphony performed selections from Bonds’ “The Montgomery Variations.”
“It all began with a seemingly small gesture,” McBeth said as he introduced the portion of the performance composed by Bonds. “A woman on a bus. A driver with malice in his heart.”
He pointed out the upcoming 70th anniversary of the event that helped ignite a movement. “A few years after the Montgomery Bus Boycott, a young
See IN UNISON, C3
n Stone’s vivid lyrics and emphasis on the story as well as her vocal prowess was reminiscent of the female R&B storyteller era that dominated urban FM radio stations.
Stone was traveling with members of her band from Mobile, Alabama to Atlanta when their van collided with a semi-truck on Interstate 65 about five miles south of Montgomery, local police and her label told usatoday.com. Lt. Jeremy Burkett of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency told USA TODAY that the Mercedes Benz Sprinter flipped over on the road before it collided with the truck. He also said Stone, who was a passenger in the van, was declared dead at the scene. Her 45-plus year career spanned genres and several mediums. She was a rapper, singer and songwriter. She was an accomplished actress. She appeared on Broadway in “Chicago” and “Dreamgirls.” She also graced the big and small screen, both as an actress and a reality television personality.
The Columbia, South Carolina native was only 16 when she got her start as one-third of the Sequence, the first female hip-hop trio signed to Sugar Hill Records. They released several albums but were most notably known for “Funk You Up.”
The 1979 single went on to become a regularly sampled song in contemporary music including Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars’ “Uptown Funk” and Erykah Badu’s “Love of My Life Worldwide.” She later joined the group Vertical Hold and released two albums with them in the 1990s.
Her breakthrough as a solo artist directly followed the creative support she provided to former partner D’Angelo. She contributed as a songwriter and provided background vocals to his career defining albums “Brown Sugar” and “Voodoo.”
Photos by Taylor Marrie/The St. Louis American
Lil Wayne and The Hot Boys gave a performance to remember at their sold-out show Friday night at Enterprise Center.
Photo by Wiley Price/St. Louis
Courtesy photo
Angie Stone
CONCERTS
Thurs., Mar. 6, 7 p.m. doors,
The Last Doll Tour starring Kash Doll, The Hawthorn, 2231 Washington Ave. For more information, visit www.thehawthornstl.com
Wed., Mar. 12, 7 p.m. Mary J. Blige: The For My Fans Tour, Enterprise Center, 1401 Clark Ave. St. Louis, MO 63103. For more information, visit www. enterprisecenter.com.
Mon., Mar. 24, 7 p.m. doors, The Glorius Tour starring Glorilla with special guests Real Boston Richey and Queen Key, The Factory at the District, 17105 North Outer 40 Road, Chesterfield, MO 63005. For more information, visit www. thefactorystl.com/
Fri., Mar. 28, 8 p.m. The 17th Annual Gateway Blues Festival, Chaifetz Arena, 1 Compton Ave, St. Louis, MO 63103. For more information visit www.chaifetzarena.com.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Sat., Mar. 15, 11 a.m. Midwest Music Summit presented by veteran media personality Princess Stormm, featuring industry giants from labels such as Def Jam, Warner Radio, and Interscope. Harris-Stowe State University, William L. Clay Center 3026 Laclede Ave, St. Louis, MO 63103. The event is free of charge, but registration is strongly encouraged. For more information, visit (https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ midwest-music-summit-tickets-1247874589489)
Sun., Mar. 16, 10 a.m. SLSO IN UNISON Church Program, St. Paul AME Church, 1260 Hamilton Ave., St. Louis, MO 63112. For more information, visit https://shop.slso.org
STL Sites & Sounds
Mar. 28-Mar. 30, She Believed Weekend Takeover, a celebration of women’s voices, art, and empowerment, hosted by Her Eminent Reign For more information, visit hereminentreign.art.
COMEDY
Fri., Mar. 14, 7 p.m. Special Event: Adele Givens, Helium Comedy Club, 1151 St. Louis Galleria Street, St. Louis, MO 63117. For more information, visit https://st-louis.heliumcomedy.com.
Fri., Mar 14, 7:30 p.m. 314 Day Comedy Bash With John Grimes, City Winery St. Louis, 3730 Foundry Way, St. Louis, MO 63110. For more information https://citywinery.com.
Fri., Mar. 21-23, 7 p.m. Special Event: Godfrey, Helium Comedy Club, 1151 St. Louis Galleria Street, St. Louis, MO 63117. For more information, visit https://st-louis.heliumcomedy.com.
ST. LOUIS MUSIC SPOTLIGHT
Fri., Mar. 7, 7:30 p.m. Reggie Son: The Second Son Live Experience, City Winery St. Louis, 3730 Foundry Way, St. Louis, MO 63110.For more information https://citywinery. com.
Thurs., Mar. 13, 8 p.m. “That Y2K Love” Tour, Dellmar Hall, 6133 Delmar Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63112. For more information, visit www.ticketmaster. com.
Fri., Mar. 14, 7:30 p.m. Danita Mumphard, Blue Strawberry, 365 North Boyle Ave. St. Louis, MO 63108. For more information, visit https://bluestrawberrystl.com.
Fri., Mar. 14, 9 p.m. Sage at Sophie’s:314 Day Edition w/ Agile One & DJ $ol, Sophie’s artist lounge, 3333 Washington Ave. Suite 102, St. Louis, MO 63103. For more information, visit https://kranzbergartsfoundation.org.
THEATRE
Through Mar. 9, 7:30 p.m.
Some like It Hot, Fabulous Fox Theatre, 527 North Grand Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63103. For more information, visit www. fabulousfox.com.
Fri., Mar. 14, 7:30 p.m. Mean Girls, The Fabulous Fox, 527 N Grand Blvd., St. Louis, MO
63103. Various showtimes available. For more information, visit www.fabulousfox.com.
Wed., Mar. 12, 7 p.m. The Wash, COCA, 6880 Washington Ave., St. Louis, MO 63130. Various showtimes available. For more information, visit https://explorestlouis.com
Through Mar 22, 8 p.m. The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Marcelle, 3310 Samuel Shepard Drive, St. Louis MO, 63103. For more information, visit https:// newlinetheatre.com.
Sun., Mar. 23, 5 p.m. Jason’s Lyric Live, The Fabulous Fox, 527 N Grand Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63103. For more information, visit www.fabulousfox. com.
ART
Through March 29, From The Deep, a solo exhibition by Michael Marshall, Atrium Gallery, 665 S. Skinker Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63105. For more information, call (314) 367-1076 or visit www.atriumgallery.net.
Through Apr. 13, 2025, Saint Louis Art Museum presents Federal Art Project 1935-1945, Saint Louis Art Museum, One Fine Arts Drive, St. Louis, MO 63110. For more information, visit www.slam.org.
Through Jun. 30, 2025, Pop Stars! Popular Culture and Contemporary Art, 21C Museum Hotel St. Louis, 1528 Locus Street, St. Louis, MO 63103. For more information, visit www.21cmuseumhotels. com.
Through Aug. 10 Like Water, Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis, 3750 Washington Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63108. For more information https://camstl. org/.
The Queen of Hip-Hop Soul Mary J. Blige will return to St. Louis with her ‘For My Fans Tour’ at Enterprise Center. See CONCERTS for more details.
Wayne
Continued from C1
tone for The Hot Boys. Before the rap performances, DJ Mannie Fresh took over the turntables. It was only right that he would take the stage, since he is the driving force behind The Hot Boys. He played an old school set that mixed early 2000s and 90s music over current sounds.
He started with the instrumental of “Blow the Whistle” layered with the lyrics of “Sexual Healing” by Marvin Gaye then “Be Happy” by Mary J. Blige. The audience rose to their feet and danced to this unexpected and original mix.
The Hot Boys came out one at a time performing their signature hits. First there was Juvenile with “Ha,” then Big Tymers with “Still Fly,” B.G.’s “Uptown Thang” followed by a group performance of “400 Degreez.” Though it has been over a decade since the group have performed regularly together, they still display great chemistry. They organically vibed with one another on stage and recited each other’s adlibs.
B.G. took a moment after his performance this weekend to thank the
audience for continuing to support him after he served a 14-year prison sentence. He recalled how he spent “12 winters and 13 summers” biding his time behind bars. He expressed thanks and humility to the fans who still allow him to perform following his 2023 release. He ended with “this is a message to my haters” as the music for “Don’t Talk
to Me” began to play. The audience cheered and danced along as the chorus played, “When you see me in the street, don’t talk to me.”
Wayne’s set was just as expected – fiery and explosive. He opened with “I’m Going In”, a song featured on Drake’s “So Far Gone” album, and “Fireman” getting the crowd on their feet.
n “We are supposed to be sophisticated. But when you think about what God has done for you – and the things he brought you through – I don’t know if you can stay in your seat.”
- Donald Lawrence
tonight.”
Continued from C1
Black composer was visiting the city and was inspired to write a symphonic work telling this important Civil Rights story,” McBeth said.
“I Want Jesus to Walk with Me,” was the theme for the work. And IN UNISON’s performance included narration drawn from Bonds’ score notes and was performed by the chorus’ Program Manager Michelle Byrd.
“Rosa Parks’ refusal to give up her seat in the Colored section of a Montgomery bus sparked the beginning of a 13-month boycott,” Byrd read. “Under the leadership of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, Negroes decided to boycott the bus company to fight for their rights as citizens.”
Byrd’s words along with the sounds of IN UNISON and the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra gave the story of the Montgomery Bus Boycott the musical embodiment of a sweeping epic story.
“I want Jesus to walk with me,” the choir sang in harmony of the highest possible register of each of the vocal groups against an
orchestral crescendo. Then the strings and woodwinds tenderly carried the segment into its next movement.
After “The Montgomery Variations,” Lawrence and his troupe of singers appeared on stage with no spoken introduction. As they approached the microphones, praises started before he did. The orchestra performed an interpretive introduction of one of his worship music standards that served as his official welcome.
“Thank you, Jesus,” a woman said as she leapt from her seat. She was ready to praise as soon as she recognized the intro music to be Lawrence’s “The Blessing of Abraham.”
“St. Louis is in the house tonight,” Lawrence said. He shouted with delight after he compelled the audience to their feet from the first song.
“I know we are at the symphony, and we are supposed to keep our composure just a little bit,” Lawrence said. “We are supposed to be sophisticated. But when you think about what God has done for you – and the things he brought you through – I don’t know if you can stay in your seat. This is going to be a gospel symphony tonight. This is going to be a praise symphony
Friday night at the symphony became Sunday morning service thanks to performances such as “Jehovah Sabaoth” and “Encourage Yourself.”
The second half of the concert featured additional tribute to Black women composers through two more selections by Powell and a rendition of Brenda Russell’s “The Color Purple,” from the musical of the same name.
“Sometimes I do things for you. Sometimes I do things for me,” McBeth said as he introduced the selection. “This was for me.”
Lawrence and his singers returned and demonstrated the power of gospel – including the skill required by those who compose, conduct and perform it – with “Matthew 28” and “Bless Me (The Prayer of Jabez).”
“I love bringing gospel music into different arenas because as much as it is spiritual and as much as it is ministry, it is still a great art form,” Lawrence said. “And we have to continue to learn how to adapt this art form for rooms like this.”
The audience left feeling more encouraged than when they came thanks to his staple “The Best Is Yet To Come,” which served as the evening’s finale.
Wayne had the superfans screaming every one of his lyrics. They kept up with every track on the set list that demonstrated the variety within his prolific catalog, including “Lollipop” and “Tunechi Rollin.”
True to form, Wayne’s production value and audio-visual elements were top-notch. He created a white and red strobe light
Stone
Continued from C1
She also performed as a background singer on his “Voodoo” tour. D’Angelo and Stone’s personal relationship resulted in the birth of Stone’s only son, Michael D’Angelo Archer II. In the late 1990s she signed with Arista Records and moved over to Clive Davis’s J Records – where she released her debut solo album “Black Diamond.” The record spawned the moderately successful radio hit “Every day” which featured D’Angelo both with the co-writing and on the background
show that flickered over the audience as songs reached their chorus.
For other tracks, he used fire to punctuate the lyrics – including “John” featuring Rick Ross and “Uproar” featuring Swizz Beatz. He also had YAYOTHEDRUMMER - ONEMANBAND playing live drums to back his vocals. The drums intensified the chorus of
vocals.
It was her sophomore album “Mohogany Soul” that put Stone in the mix as a fundamental member of the neo-soul movement – which was a major moment for R&B in late 1990s and early 2000s. Cohort members such as Jill Scott and Erykah Badu used their respective platforms to expand the genre through the merging of other elements such as poetry, hip hop and jazz. But Stone used her music as a solo songstress to pay tribute to a seemingly lost and underappreciated art form within soul and R&B. Stone’s vivid lyrics and emphasis on the story as well as her vocal prowess
To close the show
Wayne invited the rest of the Hot Boys back on stage for “Back That [expletive] Up”. The crowd erupted as the string instruments signified the song’s opening.
“She Will” and the intro for “Blunt Blowin.”
To close the show
Wayne invited the rest of the Hot Boys back on stage for “Back That [expletive] Up”. The crowd erupted as the string instruments signified the song’s opening. It was clear they had been waiting to hear this song all night. Women danced while the men rapped along.
Wayne took the stage one final time before he bid the audience adieu with Whitney Houston’s “I
was reminiscent of the female R&B storyteller era that dominated urban FM radio stations and blue light basement parties in the 70s and 80s. The late Betty Wright and Minnie Ripperton, as well as St. Louis area natives Shirley Brown and Ann Peebles, were among them. Among her biggest hits were 2001’s “Brotha,” her ode to Black men, “No More Rain,” “Wish I Didn’t Miss You,” and the Grammy Awardnominated “More Than A Woman” featuring Joe. Stone is survived by her daughter Diamond Stone, son Michael D’Angelo Archer II and two grandchildren.
Photos by Taylor Marrie/ The St. Louis American
Photo by Wiley Price/St. Louis American
HR GENERALIST III – TRAINING DIRECTOR – 21ST CIRCUIT COURT
Family Court of St. Louis County is hiring for a Human Resources
Generalist III- Training Director in our Human Resources Department.
The HR Generalist III - Training Director coordinates and oversees the planning, development and delivery of educational and training programs for the entire St. Louis County Circuit Court, ensuring these programs support the goals and direction of the court and provide development opportunities for employees. This position is responsible for all aspects of training for State and County employees for the Saint Louis County Circuit Court (excluding all Article 5 Judges), and reports to the Director of Human Resources.
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in training or related behavioral science (preferred). At least 5 years of experience in training or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Experience training in a government environment is preferred.
This is a non-merit position. Recruitment for this position will be handled by the Family Court of St. Louis County. Position is eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness.
As an employer, St. Louis County cares about the health and well-being of our employees. In an effort to provide for the best possible work-life balance, the County offers a generous benefits package that includes affordable health insurance, dental and vision coverage, 4 weeks of Paid Time Off the first year, 11 paid holidays, deferred benefit retirement plan, paid life insurance as well as short- and long-term disability. A full listing of benefits is available under the benefit tab at the top of this page.
Pay Grade 12 - $55,536 - $83,304. This position is eligible for the 10% addition to pay effective January 12, 2020.
Note: All selected individuals will be required to submit to a background check. Apply online at the following link on or before February 28, 2025. https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/stlouis/jobs/4778399
EOE. Please contact the Human Resources Department at 314-615-8088 (voice) or RelayMO 711 or 800-735-2966 if you need any accommodations in the application process, or if you would like this posting in an alternative format. Cover letter and resume may also be sent to: Attention: Human Resources, Circuit Court of St. Louis County, 105 S. Central Avenue, Clayton, MO 63105.
GUARDIAN AD LITEM –FAMILY COURT - JUVENILE DIVISION
Family Court (Juvenile Division) of St. Louis County is seeking an attorney to serve as guardian ad litem (GAL) in the Family Court to handle juvenile matters/ parent attorney. A GAL who serves the Court must commit to serve on various Family Court (Juvenile) cases on an as needed basis for a monthly retainer to be paid by public funds. The current retainer is in the amount of $2,500.00 per month. Payments for time expended in adoption, guardianship of minor, and termination of parental rights matters may be made over and above the retainer fee.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
experience are highly preferred), and completion of necessary guardian ad litem training as required by the Supreme Court of Missouri. Note: This position is subject to continued availability of funding.
To apply, please send a current resume, along with a cover letter, to SLCCourtJobs@courts.mo.gov or to the following address (application materials must be postmarked by March 28, 2025): Family Court of St. Louis County, Attn: Human Resources Department, 105 S. Central Ave., Clayton, MO 63105. EOE. Please contact the Human Resources Department at 615-4471 (voice) or RelayMo 711 or 800-735-2966 if you need any accommodations in the application process, or if you would like this posting in an alternative form.
WAITING LIST
WOODLAND TOWERS APARTMENTS
306 PINE LAKE ROAD
COLLINSVILLE, IL, 62234
Seniors 62 and older
Apply now for an affordable 1-bedroom unit. Stop by the office or Call: (618) 345-7240 for an application Applications may be returned in person or by mail.
Monday-Friday 8-5
Managed by Related Management Company
REQUEST FOR BIDS
The School District of University City is seeking bids for classroom renovations at Brittany Woods Middle School. Deadline for bids is 2pm March 20. The Mandatory Pre-Bid Walkthrough is scheduled for 3:30pm Thursday the 6th at Brittany Woods Middle School. Email DeAna Carter dcarter@ kwamebuildinggroup.com for more information.
The School District of University City is seeking bids for two new Secure Entry Vestibules projects. Deadline for bids is 2pm March 24. The Pre-Bid call is scheduled for 10am March 6. The Mandatory Pre-Bid Walkthrough is March 14 at 10am at Flynn Park Elementary School. Email DeAna Carter dcarter@ kwamebuildinggroup.com for more information.
REQUEST FOR PUBLIC COMMENT
East-West Gateway Council of Governments is seeking comment on its proposed fiscal year 2026 Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP). The public comment period runs from Friday, February 28, 2025 through Monday, April 14, 2025, during which time the document will available online at www.ewgateway.org All comments on the document must be received or postmarked by midnight on April 14, 2025. Send comments to: upwp@ewgateway. org or Attn.: UPWP Comments, East-West Gateway Council of Governments, 1 S. Memorial Dr., Suite 1600, St. Louis, MO 63102.
SEALED BIDS
Bids for Crossroads & Esperanza Group HomesRemodel Shower & Restroom, Group Home Buildings, Project No. M2412-01 will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, March 27, 2025. Project information available at: http://oa.mo. gov/facilities
REQUEST FOR BIDS
RL Persons Construction Inc is requesting bids from MBE/WBE/SDVE Subcontractors and Suppliers for our proposal on the Fisher Delta Research Center – Soils Research Lab. A diversity goal of 10% MBE, 10% WBE and 3% SDVE has been established for this project. To access the bid documents, or if you have any questions, please email/call Shaun at admin@rlpersons.com /573-686-1323. Please submit bids to admin@ rlpersons.com by 10:00AM on 3/17/2025. RL Persons Construction Inc is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
SEALED BIDS
Bids for Chilled Water Renovations at Missouri State Capitol Building, Project No. O235301, will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, March 27, 2025. Project information available at: http://oa.mo. gov/facilities
DEVELOPMENT POSITION
The Gateway Arch Park Foundation is seeking to fill the following open, full-time position. Development Coordinator, Membership: Opportunity to work with a diverse, collaborative team in fundraising. Position requires a bachelor’s degree and 1-3 years of relevant experience. View full job description and application process at www.archpark.org/ foundation/careers
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
The Heartland Regional Investment Fund, LLC (“HRIF”) issues this request for proposals for developers, business owners, consultants, and other stakeholders to submit qualified, community development projects for considerationHRIF’s for its current New Market Tax Credit allocation. A copy of the RFP is available at https://stlpartnership.com/ rfp-rfq/. HRIF will accept proposals on a rolling basis throughout 2025. The initial review of projects will begin on Friday, March 28, 2025. St. Louis Economic Development Partnership EqualEmployerOpportunity
Sealed bids for the Washington Street Resurfacing project, St. Louis County Project No. AR-1719, Federal Project No. STP-5598(609) will be received electronically thru the County’s Vendor Self Service portal at https://stlouiscountymovendors. munisselfservice.com/Vendors/ default.aspx, until 2:00 PM on April 2, 2025
Plans and specifications will be available on March 3, 2025 from the St. Louis County Web Site (www. stlouiscountymo.gov) or by contacting Cross Rhodes Print & Technologies, 2731 South Jefferson Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63118 (314) 678-0087. ACTING DIRECTOR OF PROCUREMENT AND ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES ST. LOUIS COUNTY
St. LouiS american
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
BSI Constructors Inc., 6767 Southwest Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63143 (314-781-7820), is the Construction Manager and is interested in receiving subcontract bids and/or material quotations from qualified subcontractors, qualifying Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises on any or all portions of the contractual work scopes. Scopes of work include: Electrical work,HVAC removal and replacement including controls, and fire protection systems. It is the intent of BSI and the Owner to encourage qualified Minority and Women owned firms to participate in the execution of the work. Please contact BSI Constructors for access to bidding documents.
Pre-Bid Meeting: Monday, March 10, 2025, at 7:00AM
Project Name___________________________
SLU DuBourg Hall BP1 Requested Bid Date & Time 221 N Grand Blvd. Friday, April 4, 2025 St. Louis, MO 63103 TIME: 5:00PM
Architect: Cannon Design
BSI IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Phone: 314-781-7820 Fax: 314-781-1354
SEALED BIDS
Bids for Site Development and Security at Jefferson City Scruggs Station Warehouse, Project No. O243308, will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, March 25, 2025
Project information available at: http://oa.mo. gov/facilities
SEALED BIDS
Bids for Constructions Services, Central Region, Project Nos. IDIQMCA -5001 and IDIQMCA 5002, will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, April 1, 2025. Project information available at: http://oa.mo.gov/ facilities
SEALED BIDS
Bids for Renovate Interior & Exterior, Barns 39, 40, & 41, Missouri State Fairgrounds, Sedalia Missouri, Project No. F2404-01 will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, April 1, 2025. Project information available at: http://oa.mo. gov/facilities
SEALED BIDS
Bids for Upgrade Electrical Service, Rolla Regional Office Project No. M240901, Rolla, MO will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, March 27, 2025.
Project information available at: http://oa.mo. gov/facilities
We Publish every Thursday
INVITATION TO BID
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, April 11, 2025.
SEALED BIDS
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District Requests for Quotes, Bids and Proposals are posted online for public download. Please navigate to www.msdprojectclear.org > Doing Business With Us > View Bid Opportunities
Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
SOLICITING BIDS
Great Rivers Greenway is soliciting electronic bids via Bid Express for Mississippi Greenway: NPS Park Over Highway Wall Repair. Go to https:// greatriversgreenway. org/bids/ and submit by March 28, 2025.
NEWSPAPER ADVERTISEMENT
Solicitation RD24-13
Asphalt Shingle Roof Replacements Lookaway, Walnut Park, and Badenhaus Developments City of St. Louis, Missouri
The St. Louis Housing Authority (SLHA) seeks bids to perform the following project:
Removal and replacement of existing asphalt single roofs, drip edges, and ridge vents at thirty (30) single family residences in the Walnut Park and Lookaway developments, and nine (9) multi-family structures at the Badenhaus Apartments. Gutters and downspouts will also be replaced as noted on plans. Performance period to be 180 days.
Bid information available at https://www. slha.org/partner-with-slha/ on or before Friday, March 7, 2025.
A pre-bid conference will be held on site at 10:00AM on Tuesday, March 11, 2025 at the project site.
Sealed bids are due 1:00 PM on Thursday, April 17, 2025 via QuestCDN or delivered personally at SLHA Offices at 3520 Page Blvd., Saint Louis, MO 63106. Latasha Barnes Contracting Officer
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
ACCESS AND FUNCTIONAL NEEDS ASSESSMENT FOR UASI PROGRAM
East-West Gateway Council of Governments is seeking submittals from consultants to conduct an Access and Functional Needs Assessment for the UASI Program, funded by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security/ FEMA. Submittals are due no later than 1:00 p.m. on March 28, 2025. D/S/W/MBEs are encouraged to submit proposals. Find submittal details at www.ewgateway.org
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ST. LOUIS COUNTY
AGENCIES: St. Louis County is the “Lead Agency” for the St. Louis County HOME Consortium. The St. Louis County HOME Consortium is a group of contiguous units of local government that have joined together for the purpose of receiving HOME funds and administering a HOME Program as a single grantee. The members of the St. Louis County HOME Consortium include St. Louis County, Jefferson County, St. Charles County, and the cities of Florissant and O’Fallon.
ACTION: Notice is hereby given that the 2024 Consolidated Annual Performance Evaluation Report (CAPER) has been drafted by the Consortium. The draft may receive several updates prior to submission to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
SUMMARY: The draft 2024 CAPER, which summarizes the 2024 accomplishments of the Consortium, includes the following programs funded by HUD: Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME), and Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG). The CAPER provides information on how funding received through the CDBG and ESG programs have been spent in St. Louis County as well as information on how HOME funds have been spent in St. Louis County and in the jurisdictions of the members of the Consortium.
AVAILABILITY OF REVIEW MATERIALS: A copy of the draft 2024 CAPER will be available for public review and comment on February 28—March 31, 2025. Copies may be obtained by contacting Sonya Venerable at svenerable@ stlouiscountymo.gov. The document will also be available on the St. Louis County website at: https://stlouiscountymo.gov/st-louis-county-departments/human-services/community-development/
PUBLIC HEARING: A public hearing for the draft 2024 CAPER will be held on March 24, 2025 from 4:00–5:00pm at the St. Louis County Library—Clark Family Branch, 1640 South Lindbergh Boulevard, Room B, St. Louis, MO 63131. Persons with disabilities or who otherwise need assistance, including those with limited English proficiency, should contact Sonya Venerable at svenerable@stlouiscountymo.gov at least 48 hours in advance of the hearing.
POSTING LOCATIONS: This Notice will be posted on February 27 –March 31, 2025 at the locations specified below:
St. Louis County Government Buildings
• Administration Building, 41 S. Central Avenue, Clayton, MO 63105
• Northwest Crossing, 715 Northwest Plaza Drive, St. Ann, MO 63074
• Department of Public Health, 6121 North Hanley Road, Berkeley, MO 63134
near Metro Link 5708 Kingsbury Place, St. Louis, MO 63112 314-361-7225 TTY 800-735-2966
Bids for Retaining Wall Replacement WMMHCBM, Project No. M240701 will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, March 20, 2025. Project information available at: http://oa.mo. gov/facilities
• South County, 4546 Lemay Ferry Road, St. Louis, MO 63129
Jefferson County
• Jefferson County Economic Development Corporation, 5217 Highway B, Hillsboro, MO 63050
St. Charles County
• Administrative Building, 201 N. Second St., St. Charles, MO 63301
City of Florissant
• Government Building, 1055 rue St. Francois, Florissant, MO 63031
City of O’Fallon
• City Hall, 100 N. Main Street, O’Fallon, MO 63366
COMMENT PERIOD: Comments concerning the draft 2024 CAPER should be made during the public comment period; the comment period is February 28—March 31, 2025. Written comments will be accepted until 4:00pm on March 31, 2025 and may be submitted via email to aellis@stlouiscountymo.gov or mailed to Amy Ellis, Division Manager, St. Louis County Office of Community Development, 500 Northwest Plaza Drive, Suite 801, St. Ann, MO 63074. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Restoring the Rock
By Diamond Palmer 5 On Your Side
(KSDK.com)
– Last week during Black History Month, St. Alphonsus Liguori “Rock” Catholic Church received a $500,000 grant for preservation from the National Trust for Historic Preservation African American Cultural Heritage Action fund. The church, which is located in north St. Louis and over 150 years old, was the only Black Catholic church this year to be awarded the grant.
In addition to The “Rock” church, there are a total of 30 historic Black churches nationwide who will receive financial support from the Preserving Black Churches grant program totaling $8.5 million. The church was one of more than 622 funding proposals that was reviewed.
The Rev. Rodney Olive has been leading The “Rock” Church for the last six years.
“This is a very beautiful church that’s over 150 years old, and like any historic church, it requires maintenance,” Olive said. “The ‘Rock’ Church is an African American focused Catholic church, and I always tell colleagues that people don’t just go to mass here, they come to worship.”
One of the parishioners working on identifying areas of the church needing a little TLC is Monica Huddleston. The church has been her ‘spiritual home’ for the last three decades.
“It’s unlike other Catholic churches for our African American population particularly or for those who appreciate the African American style of worship,” Huddleston said.
Shannon Horstmann has been a parishioner at The “Rock” church for 25 years. She also has been writing the grant to preserve the church.
“It was a tough process,” Horstmann said. “We are spirit led and spirit fed, and you will walk out of this door feeling transformed.”
She applied for the grant numerous times over the last several years. Each time, the church got denied.
“I kept thinking every year we had such a chance of getting this, and we kept getting denied,” Horstmann said. Horstmann leaned on her faith. Then two weeks ago, an unexpected gift of receiving the $500,000 grant to help continue its legacy finally happened.
The parishioners and pastor say there needs to be a lot done to restore the church.
“There are several compo-
nents to it, the stained-glass windows, the electro mechanics, roof repair, tuckpointing and all of those are major expenses,” Huddleston said.
The team said the windows restoration could take 16-18 months to complete.
Pastor Olive says additional repairs that need to be made.
“We have major equipment like the boilers and major AC units that are approaching 20 years old and like anything else it’s not designed to last forever,” Olive said.
It isn’t the first time The “Rock” Church has needed a facelift. In August 2007, a five-alarm fire broke out at the
church due to the roof being struck by lightning.
“You could see the fire shooting out of the top of the building and the order that fire Chief Sherman George gave was for firefighters not to touch those stained-glass windows, and they didn’t,” Huddleston said.
This newly awarded grant will only pay for a third of the restoration project but also be a component of the church’s fiveyear capital campaign to raise a total of $1.5 million. The capital campaign has already raised $150,000 between pledges and gifts.
Olive is relying on his faith and parishioners to rally the
community.
“Yes, we can, with God yes we can,” Olive said. Those interested in supporting The “Rock” Church in their effort to preserve and restore their church can visit www.stalphonsusrock.org Services are held at 10 a.m. every Sunday at 1118 North Grand Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63106 – and are also livestreamed on YouTube.
Republished with permission from St. Louis American content partner 5 On Your Side.
February 26, 1941November 12, 2024
Today, I honor the life and legacy of the sweetest mother in the world, Mrs. Vivian G. Radden Wilkerson Moore. She touched so many lives as an educator, counselor, ordained minister, mother figure, prayer warrior, entrepreneur, and most importantly as a woman who truly loved the Lord. Her mission in life was to do all she could to help others, especially children, youth, and young adults. My mother was a proud graduate of Anderson College and Washington University. Those institutions, along with a God given gift, prepared her for a career in education that spanned over 40 years and included working for Chicago Public Schools and University City, Hazelwood, Webster Groves, and Rockwood School Districts. She retired from Rockwood in 2002 where she served as an administrator, member of the Superintendent’s Cabinet, and Director of the Voluntary Interdistrict Choice Corporation and Auxiliary Services. My mom also sought to make a difference in young children’s lives for over 30 years at her pre-school, The Children’s Academy. Additionally, she worked extensively locally, nationally, and internationally with the Church of God in Anderson, Indiana in numerous capacities. She leaves to cherish her memory her devoted husband, Frank Moore, Jr.; loving daughter, Evelyn B. Wilkerson; and a host of other close relatives and friends.
Courtesy photo
Summer cAmpS Summer
Horizons’ summer program rising again in June
St. Louis American
The Horizons Summer Program will run from June 9 to July 18, 2025, at Keysor Elementary School in Kirkwood, Mo.
The educational and fun-filled days that include academic work, swimming lessons and field trips run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and the program is offered to eligible elementary and middle school students in the Kirkwood School District attendance area.
Summer programs crucial to the success of St. Louis youth
William Jones, a resident of the Meacham Park neighborhood, and Cleo Lewright, a teacher at Turner School in Meacham Park, created a partnership with the Christian Social Relations Committee at Grace Episcopal Church in Kirkwood during the late 1960s.
In September of 1970, the organization was incorporated as Sprog, Inc., a Missouri non-profit corporation.
Kem Mosley, and later his wife Karen Mosley, served key roles as program director and later as executive director.
In 2019, Sprog Inc., became an affiliate of Horizons National drawing on Horizons’ proven model for advancing educational equity. A collaboration with the Kirkwood School District had been part of the program for years, and daily sessions are now held at Keyser, with access to Kirkwood High School’s Walker Natatorium.
Kayla Bryant, executive director, will be leading her first summer session after joining the Horizons team last August.
“Our project-based educational model is designed to fuel a lifelong passion for learning, blending high-quality academics with cultural enrichment and confidence-building activities. Our focus on literacy and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) inspires students to learn, achieve, and experience greater academic success,” according to Byant on the Horizon’s website.
In addition to swimming instruction, campers receive healthy meals and snacks, field trips, arts, sports, and “an overall emphasis on social-emotional learning.”
Horizons serves students with a broad range of academic skills, providing them with the opportunity to experience success in a setting that, over time, becomes an inspirational and stable learning environment.
Horizons students benefit from:
-A 5:1 student-to-educator ratio with professional teaching staff
-Confidence-building activities like swimming, arts, and sports
-Weekly enrichment activities and field trips
-Long-lasting relationships with teachers and peers
-A challenging, encouraging, long-term learning community
Horizons St. Louis also values diversity and inclusion in its recruitment and hiring practices.
“Our staff is diverse, so that kids can see themselves in the adults who lead them,” said Bryant. For more information, contact Horizons’ Program Director at ProgramDirector@horizonsstlouis. org.
Blueprint4 Database helps parents find the perfect camps for kids and teens
As the school year enters the final stretch, a tale of two summers unfolds for St. Louis area youth. While his parents work, Josh sleeps till noon, then snacks and plays video games for most of the day. When he starts the new school year, the routine will come as a shock, and he’ll feel unprepared for daily reading and math.
n These camps provide settings for youth to grow their skills and develop dreams for their future.
Conversely, Sean spends his summer at an 8-week day camp. Though he initially complains about waking up early during the summer, Sean soon comes home raving about his experiences at camp, the field trips he takes around St. Louis, his new friends, and the staff mentors that helped him with a robotics project. The difference is clear, but the context is nuanced. Though school may close during the summer months, parents continue to work, leaving many kids like Josh to spend time by themselves, on screens, or seeking their own entertainment. While the consequences of wasted out-of-school time have always been dire, in the wake of the COVID19 pandemic, these concerns have only worsened for youth. According to a study from Learning Heroes, 40% of parents report that missing out on social connections and friendships is what they are most concerned about with their children, followed by too
much screen time (32 %), and falling behind academically (26 %).
during the crucial summer months. These camps provide settings for youth to grow their skills and develop dreams for their future.
One St. Louis-area parent reflecting on her child’s 2024 experiences shared “[Camp] has been keeping him physically and mentally in shape. He
The positive news is that youth program providers across the St. Louis area are working to prevent this crisis. Thousands of opportunities exist for summer learning and fun in the metro region. From arts to academics, STEM to sports, diverse programs have emerged to support kids and teens See PROGRAMS, D6
Kayla Bryant
2025 Summer Camp Guide
This Camp Guide was produced in partnership with Blueprint4, a free database of St. Louis-area out-of-school programs.
To find additional information about these summer programs and many more, visit blueprint4.com.
ABC Chefs
Website: https://abcchefs.com
Phone: 314-348-1968
Address: 17A W County Center Suite B103 Des Peres, MO 63131
Camp Description: Our approach is to make cooking fun, engaging, and educational. We foster creativity, teach cooking skills, and promote healthy eating habits.
Age Range: 5 - 15
Cost Range: $275.00
ACE Academy
Website: https://obap. org/ace/stlouis/ Phone: 602-321-4174
Address: 910 N Newstead Ave. St. Louis, MO 63108
Camp Description: The purpose of Aviation Career Education (ACE) is to offer first level exposure to the aviation industry by providing aviation career exploration for middle and high school students. Participants will have the opportunity to go on field trips to aviation facilities, visit museums, and participate in other hands-on activities.
Age Range: 14 - 18
Cost Range: $150.00
Aim High St. Louis Website: https://www. aimhighstl.org
Phone: 314-432-9500
Address: 755 South Price Rd St. Louis, MO 63124
Camp Description:
Five-week academic enrichment summer program for middle school students focusing on math, science, and humanities with physical fun.
Age Range: 10 - 14
Cost Range: Free
All Star Performance Website: https:// all-starperformance.net/ Phone: 314-394-1495
Address: 1000 Camera Avenue Suite E Crestwood, MO 63126
Camp Description: Join us at our State-of-theArt facility in St. Louis, the home of the best baseball fans in the country! Summer Series Camps help youth work on their baseball and softball skills.
Age Range: 5 - 18
Cost Range: $79.00 -
$159.00
American Diabetes Association Website: https://diabetes.org/tools-resources/ get-connected/camp/finda-camp
Phone: 800-342-2383
Address: 13528
State Hwy AA Potosi, MO 63664
Camp Description: Children living with diabetes foster friendships, develop essential diabetes management skills, and embark on unforgettable adventures.
Age Range: 7 - 17
Cost Range: $50.00$825.00
Annie’s Hope: The Center for Grieving Kids Website: http://www.
annieshope.org
Phone: 314-965-5015
Address: 1333 W. Lockwood Suite 104 St. Louis, MO 63122
Camp Description:
Camp Courage is an overnight camp for kids and teens to experience the fun of a traditional summer camp setting while connecting with others who understand the pain of grief.
Age Range: 6 - 18
Cost Range: Free
Artscope Website: https://www. artscopestl.org/summer-camp-create
Phone: 314.865.0060
Address: 2929 Tower Grove Ave St. Louis, MO 63110
Camp Description:
Artscope’s Summer Camp Create features lots of screen-free outdoor play, art, and supervised exploration of magical Tower Grove Park. Each week a different theme.
Scholarships Available.
Age Range: 5 - 10
Cost Range: $300.00
Better Family Life Website: https://www. betterfamilylife.org/ Phone: 314-367-3440
Address: 5415 Page Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63112
Camp Description: Eight weeks of African and African American studies, dance and drama, field trips, arts and crafts, sports, swimming, and much more.
Age Range: 5 - 18
Cost Range: $25.00$335.00
Bobby McCormack’s Basketball Camp Website: https:// schoolyou.com/ Phone: 314-606-5370
Address: 500 S. Mason Rd. Creve Coeur, MO 63141
Camp Description: We help develop young players to be the best they can be. Our basketball camps are for both boys and girls at all
Bricks 4 Kidz - St Louis Website: https://www. bricks4kidz.com/stl Phone: 314-930-9535 Address: 1840 Sparks Ct Wildwood, MO 63011 Camp Description: Learn, build, and play with LEGO bricks, robotics and more! Age Range: 4 - 14 Cost Range: $95.00$180.00
Camp Ondessonk Website: https://ondesSee CAMP GUIDE, D3
sonk.com/
Phone: 618-695-2489
Address: 3760
Ondessonk Rd. Ozark, IL 62972
Camp Description: Residential youth camp that provides exceptional progamming including horseback riding, archery, canoeing, and more.
Age Range: 8 - 16
Cost Range: $384.00$714.00
Camp Rep
Website: https://marketing14501.wixsite.com/ camprep
Phone: 314-968-7340
Address: 130 Edgar Rd
St. Louis, MO 63119
Camp Description: Hosted by the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis, campers experience a twoweek artistic immersion that culminates in a creative showcase for families to see.
Age Range: 7 - 13
Cost Range: $750.00
Camp Weloki for Girls (OVERNIGHT CAMP)
Website: http:/www. campweloki.com
Phone: 636-530-1883
Address: 16100 Chesterfield Parkway West Suite 2000 Chesterfield, MO 63017
Camp Description:
One week overnight camp that teaches girls leadership, communication, and self-awareness. Camp activities include swimming, hiking, sports, camp fires, and arts. Scholarships available.
Age Range: 9 - 18
Cost Range: $1,595.00
Central Print Website: https://www. centralprint.org/
Phone: 314-241-1346
Address: 2624 North 14th Street St. Louis, MO 63106
Camp Description: Art camp focusing on printmaking, bookmaking, and nature.
Age Range: 6 - 10
Cost Range: $110.00
Challenger Learning Center - St. Louis
Website: https://www. challengerstl.org/summer-camps/
Phone: 314-521-6205
Address: 205 Brotherton Lane Ferguson, MO 63135
Camp Description: Experience an “out of this world” summer camp adventure with space mission simulations, DIY maker activities, robots, drones, and more!
Age Range: 6 - 18
Cost Range: $25.00$375.00
Chaminade College Preparatory School
Website: https:// www.chaminade-stl.org/ apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=3881035&type= d&pREC_ID=2477021
Phone: 314-993-4400
Address: 425 S. Lindbergh Boulevard St. Louis, MO 63131
Camp Description: Get ready for a summer packed with fun, learning, sports, arts, and friendships. For boys and girls in grades 3 through 12.
Age Range: 8 - 18
Cost Range: $75.00$950.00
CID - Central Institute for the Deaf
Website: https://cid.edu
Phone: 314-977-0195
Address: 825 S. Taylor Ave. St. Louis, MO 63110
Camp Description: Two theme-based summer programs for children who are deaf and hard of hearing. Scholarships available.
Age Range: 2 - 17
Cost Range: $250.00$4,426.24
Circus Harmony
Website: http://www. circusharmony.org
Phone: 314-436-7676
Address: 4120 Parker Rd Florissant, MO 63033
Camp Description: Summer Performance
Camps give the unique experience of both learning and performing circus arts for the public at City
Museum!
Age Range: 8 - 16
Cost Range: $595.00
COCA (Center of Creative Arts)
Website: http://www. cocastl.org
Phone: 314-561-4898
Address: 6880 Washington Avenue St. Louis, MO 63130
Camp Description: Campers experience new things, build their skills, and have fun! Summer Arts Camps are offered at our campus in University City and at University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy. Sliding scale tuition is available for qualifying students.
Age Range: 3 - 18
Cost Range: $110.00$495.00
COMMUNITY
SCHOOL
Website: http://www. communityschool.com/ camp
Phone: 314-991-0005
Address: 900 Lay Road St. Louis, MO 63124
Camp Description:
Whether your child is into arts, academics, or going to camp for the very first time, there’s a camp that will be just right.
Age Range: 3 - 14
Cost Range: $190.00$940.00
Cornerstone Center for Early Learning
Website: https://www. cornerstonecenterstl.org/
Phone: (314) 865-5244
Address: 3901 Russell Blvd St. Louis, MO 63110
Camp Description: We are dedicated to supporting St. Louis-area families of all economic backgrounds with quality, comprehensive, and affordable childcare and preschool education. School-aged youth can join us for Wunderkind Adventure Camp!
Age Range: 5 - 11
Cost Range: $270.00
Craft Alliance Website: http://www. craftalliance.org
Phone: 314-725-1177
Address: 5080 Delmar Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63108
Camp Description: Craft art camps for your kids in clay, fibers, glass, metals, or print & paper! Tuition assistance available.
Age Range: 7 - 18 Cost Range: $156.00$195.00
Dream Big Career Camp
Website: https://dreambigcamp.org/ Phone: 314-588-7090
Address: PO Box 775670 Saint Louis, MO 63177
Camp Description: Empowering college-bound students with disabilities. Camp includes showcasing careers in different fields; instruction in self-advocacy, independence, goal-setting, college prep; and increased confidence and marketable skills. Scholarships available.
Age Range: 11 - 21
Cost Range: $500.00
Gateway Writing Project Website: http://www. bit.ly/checkoutgwp
Address: One University Blvd. 302 Marillac Hall St. Louis, MO 63121
Camp Description: Writers@Play is a oneweek summer camp focusing on writing, exploring, and creative building for students entering 6 - 8th grades. Limited scholarships available.
Age Range: 10 - 14
Cost Range: $225.00
Gene Slay’s Girls and Boys Club
Website: https://www. gsgbcstl.org/ Phone: 314-772-5661
Address: 2524 S 11th Street St. Louis, MO 63104
Camp Description: 8 weeks of summer fun for kids & teens at Dutchtown and Soulard locations. Choose activities according to your interests, from
swimming to art to outdoor adventure, and combat summer learning loss with academic enrichment. Fees are on a sliding scale and scholarships are available for every child!
Age Range: 6 - 16
Cost Range: $200.00$360.00
Gifted Resource Council
Website: http://www. giftedresourcecouncil.org
Phone: 314-962-5920
Address: 10425 Old Olive Street Rd., LL1 St. Louis, MO 63141
Camp Description: Programming for bright and talented students in 4th - 8th grade.
Age Range: 5 - 15
Cost Range: $0.00$120.00
Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri Website: https://www. girlscoutsem.org
Phone: 314-590-2300
Address: 2300 Ball Drive St. Louis, MO 63146
Camp Description: Camping for girls in grades Pre-K through 12th. If you have questions, contact our Answer Center at 314.400.4600. Financial aid is available.
Age Range: 4 - 18
Cost Range: $65.00$660.00
Girls Incorporated of St. Louis Website: https://www. girlsincstl.org/ Phone: 314-385-8088
Address: 3801 Nelson Dr. St. Louis, MO 63121
Camp Description: Girls Inc. Extended Learning Program provides a fun, safe environment for kids to learn new skills, make lasting friendships, and build self-confidence. Limited scholarships are offered.
Age Range: 5 - 18
Cost Range: $550.00
Good Journey Development Foundation Website: http://www. goodjourney.org
Phone: 314-229-9079
Address: P.O. Box 23016 St. Louis, MO 63156
Camp Description: Summer Leadership Academy lets young community builders express themselves through art, STEM, gardening, history, play, community service, socialization with new friends, and more. Scholarships Available.
Age Range: 9 - 16
Cost Range: $100.00
Grand Center Arts
Academy Website: https://www. grandcenterartsacademy. org/apps/pages/summerartscamp
Phone: 314-533-1791
Address: 711 N. Grand Ave. St. Louis, MO 63103
Camp Description: Our summer arts camp is a one-of-a-kind opportunity for students entering grades 5 - 12 to explore their creativity in the heart of the Grand Center Arts District.
Age Range: 10 - 18
Cost Range: $40.00
GREATER ST. LOUIS AREA
COUNCIL SCOUTING
Website: https://stlbsa. org
Phone: 314-361-0600
Address: 4568 West Pine Blvd St. Louis, MO 63108
Camp Description: Day Camps with activities such as archery, bb guns, water games, nature hikes, crafts, science experiments, rockets, and more! Our Grizzly Day Camp takes place at Beaumont Scout Reservation, plus we have many other day camps throughout the area.
Age Range: 6 - 10 Cost Range: $125.00
Humane Society of Missouri Website: https://www. hsmo.org/ Phone: 314-951-1535
Address: 1201 Macklind Avenue St. Louis, MO 63110
Camp Description: Engage in fun interactive games and activities, meet animal experts and ambassadors, and put compassion into action through service projects that benefit animals.
Age Range: 6 - 14
Cost Range: $325.00
Indian Hills Swim Club Summer Camp Website: http://www. indianhillsswimclub.com
Phone: 314-544-9177
Address: 4210 Lasata Drive St. Louis, MO 63123
Camp Description: Safety and FUN come first at this camp. Includes swim and dive instruction, arts/crafts, and sports/ games. Age Range: 5 - 13 Cost Range: $300.00
International Schoolhouse SpanishImmersion Camp Website: http://www.
internationalschoolhouse.
com
Phone: 314-874-0715
Address: 1414
Bellevue Ave. St. Louis, MO 63117
Camp Description: Camp focusing on learning Spanish through handson experiences. No prior knowledge of Spanish is required, but we also welcome children who already speak the language at home.
Age Range: 3 - 9
Cost Range: $560.00$680.00
Junior Achievement of Greater St. Louis, Inc. Website: https://www. juniorachievement.org/ web/ja-gstlouis/summer-camps
Phone: (636) 728-0707
Address: 17339 N Outer 40 Rd Chesterfield, MO 63005
Camp Description: JA’s programs in the core content areas of work readiness, entrepreneurship and financial literacy ignite the spark in young people to realize the opportunities of work and life.
Age Range: 9 - 18
Cost Range: $35.00$275.00
Laumeier Sculpture Park Art Camp Website: https://www. laumeiersculpturepark.org/ artcamp
Phone: 314.615.5268
Address: 12580 Rott Rd. St. Louis, MO 63127
Camp Description: Adventure into a new world full of sculptures, natural wonders, and imaginative art projects! Experience the woodland trails and green spaces of Laumeier Sculpture Park.
Age Range: 3 - 18
Cost Range: $20.00$320.00
This Camp Guide was produced in partnership with Blueprint4, a free
database of St. Louis-area out-of-school programs. To find additional information about these summer programs and many more, visit blueprint4.com.
LEAD STL Website: https://www. leadstl.org/camp
Phone: 314-354-8236
Address: 3115 S. Grand Suite 650 St. Louis, MO 63163
Camp Description: Leadership and social change camp for 5 - 8th graders who want to build their leadership skills, learn about activism, and meet other kids from across STL! Camp contributions are determined by a sliding scale.
Age Range: 11 - 14
Cost Range: $350.00
Lindenwood University Summer Camps Website: https://www. lindenwoodlionscamps. com/
Phone: 636-949-2000
Address: 209 South Kingshighway St. St. Charles, MO 63301
Camp Description: Athletic camps on the main campus, Skyway Farms, and the Wentzville Ice Arena.
Age Range: 5 - 20 Cost Range: $23.00$190.00
Mad Science Website: https://stlouis. madscience.org
Phone: 314-991-8000
Address: 8420-R Olive Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63132
Camp Description: Hands-on science experiences that are as entertaining as they are educational.
Age Range: 3 - 12
Cost Range: $125.00$464.00
Maryville Summer Science and Robotics Program Website: https://www.
maryvilleca2.com/
Phone: 3142811120
Address: 650 Maryville University Dr. St. Louis, MO 63141
Camp Description: STEM Camps for kids from pre-K - high school.
Age Range: 4 - 18
Cost Range: $149.00$270.00
Maryville University Pre-College Programs Website: https://www. maryville.edu/summerpro-
grams/
Phone: 800-627-9855
Address: 650 Maryville University Dr Creve Coeur, MO 63141
Camp Description: From sports to science, Maryville offers a variety of fun and interesting pre-college programs for teens!
Age Range: 14 - 21
Cost Range: $65.00$750.00
Master Kim’s
KumSung Martial Arts Summer Camp Website: https://masterkimsksma.com/ Phone: 314-835-9692
Address: 103332
Manchester Rd. St. Louis, MO 63122
Camp Description: Exercise and improve your body, mind, and spirit. Martial Arts Training will make your child healthier from the inside out.
Age Range: 4 - 14
Cost Range: $250.00 -
$350.00
Metro Theater Company Summer Camps
Website: https://www. metroplays.org/
Phone: 314-932-7414
Address: 3311
Washington Avenue St. Louis, MO 63103
Camp Description: Whether it’s playing with storytelling through movement or music, or learning how to audition for a play, MTC’s professional teaching artists bring fun and growth. Contact Karen Bain at karen@metroplays.org with questions or interest in scholarships.
Age Range: 4 - 18
Cost Range: $260.00$575.00
Miriam Summer Fundamentals Camp Website: http://www. miriamstl.org/miriam-learning-center/ Phone: 314-961-1500
Address: 501 Bacon Ave Webster Groves, MO 63119
Camp Description: Miriam Learning Center provides special education services in the St. Louis and St. Charles area for students aged 2 to 18 with diagnosed or undiagnosed diverse learning needs. Join us for a summer of academic and social / emotional skills camps! Limited needs-based scholarships are available. Age Range: 5 – 18
Cost Range: $900.00$2,100.00
Missouri History Museum Website: http://mohistory.org/learn/teen-programs Phone: (314) 746-4599 Address: 5700 Lindell Blvd St. Louis, MO 63112
Camp Description: STL Changemakers is a
two-week summer program that gives teens an opportunity to explore
St. Louis history, engage with today’s most pressing issues, and develop projects focused on creating a better future for St. Louis. After completing the program, each participant will receive a $150 stipend.
Age Range: 15 - 18
Cost Range: Free
New City School Summer Camp
Website: http://www. newcitysummercamp.org
Phone: 314-361-2267
Address: 5209
Waterman Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63108
Camp Description: Try new things, meet kids outside of your neighborhood, and create future memories with your new summer tradition at New City Summer Camp. Eight unforgettable weeks filled with curiosity, creativity, and connection.
Age Range: 3 - 12
Cost Range: $150.00$450.00
Olympia Gymnastics
Website: https://olympiagymnastics.org/
Phone: 314-291-7664
Address: 7 metro area
locations
Camp Description: Day camps for children with weekly themes. Our camps ignite curiosity and foster exploration, led by our trained and safety-certified staff who love working with children.
Age Range: 5 - 12
Cost Range: $30.00$295.00
Pack Dance Website: https://www. packdance.org/
Phone: (314) 546-1477
Address: 465 North Taylor Ave. St. Louis, MO 63108
Camp Description: Pack Dance is a 501(c)3 professional dance company and community education center. In addition to our annual concert performance, we offer a wide variety of summer classes to the public for every age and every technical level.
Age Range: 3 - 19
Cost Range: $25.00$350.00
Parks & RecBridgeton Website: https://www. bridgetonmo.com/391/ Summer-Camp
Phone: 314-739-5599
Address: 4201 Fee Fee Rd Bridgeton, MO 63044
Camp Description: Traditional-style outdoor day camp program, covering a wide range of activities including arts & crafts, swimming, sports, games and more.
Age Range: 5 - 15
Cost Range: $140.00$150.00
Parks & RecFairview Heights Website: https://parksandrecfh.com/activities/
Phone: 618-489-2040
Address: 9950 Bunkum Rd. Fairview Heights, IL 62208
Camp Description:
Come join us for a summer of fun and adventure!
Age Range: 5 - 12
Cost Range: $10.00$120.00
Parks & RecFerguson Website: https://www. fergusoncity.com/780/ Summer-Day-Camps
Phone: 314-521-4661
Address: 1050 Smith Ave. Ferguson, MO 63135
Camp Description: Campers learn new sports, experience the outdoors, go swimming, go on field trips, and much more! Every week has a different theme with varied activities.
Age Range: 5 - 13 Cost Range: $20.00$95.00
Parks & RecLake St. Louis Website: https://www. lakesaintlouis.com/1221/ Summer-Day-Camp
Phone: 636-561-4620
Address: 560 Interstate Drive Wentzville, MO 63385
Camp Description: Camp Covey at Quail Ridge Park is a fun-filled weekly outdoor program.
Age Range: 6 - 10
Cost Range: $165.00
Parks & Rec - Olivette Website: https://www. olivetteparksandrec.com/ camp-five-oaks.html
Phone: 314-991-1249
Address: 1200 N. Warson Rd. Olivette, MO 63132
Camp Description: Welcome to Summer Camp at Five Oaks! Prepare for an exciting adventure with new friends, fun games, and unforgettable experiences.
Age Range: 5 - 12
Cost Range: $214.00$224.00
Parks & RecRichmond Heights
Website: https://www. myheights.info/youth_pro-
grams/camps/index. php#collapse600b0
Phone: 314.645.1476
Address: 8001 Dale Ave. Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Camp Description: Join us at our PARC Summer Camp for swimming, crafts, games, and FUN!
Age Range: 5 - 13
Cost Range: $12.00$225.00
This Camp Guide was produced in partnership with Blueprint4, a free database of St. Louis-area out-of-school programs. To find additional information about these summer programs and many more, visit blueprint4.com.
Saint Louis Chess Club
Website: https://saintlouischessclub.org/education/chess-summer-camp/ Phone: 314-361-2437
Address: 4657
Maryland Avenue St. Louis, MO 63108
Camp Description: Chess Summer Camps are the perfect way to introduce chess to new students, deepen understanding of the game for established players, or offer intensive instruction for aspiring chess masters.
Age Range: 6 - 14
Cost Range: $280.00$475.00
Saint Louis Dance
Theatre
Website: https://www. saintlouisdancetheatre.org/ Phone: (314) 338-4058 Address: 3305 Washington Avenue St. Louis, MO 63103
Camp Description: Students receive focused training in ballet, jazz, and contemporary techniques. Each session culminates in a showcase for friends and family.
Age Range: 10+
Cost Range: $12.00$350.00
Saint Louis Science Center
Website: https://www. slsc.org/programs/summer-stem-explorers/ Phone: 314-289-4439
Address: 5050 Oakland Ave St. Louis, MO 63110
Camp Description: With an array of interactive activities – including experiments, science demonstrations, and other experiences – your camper will have the opportunity to engage in STEM learning while having fun!
Age Range: 5 - 9
Cost Range: $12.00$350.00
Saint Louis University Website: https://www. slu.edu/summer-and-extended-studies/summer-camps/index.php
Phone:
Address: 3840 Lindell Boulevard St. Louis, MO
63108
Camp Description: SLU offers camps and academies for K - 12 students. From creative arts to STEM programs, there is bound to be something that sparks your family’s interest and leads to their best summer yet.
Age Range: 5 - 21
Cost Range: $0.00$1,000.00
Saint Louis Zoo Website: http://stlzoo. org Phone: 314-646-4544
Address: 1 Government Drive St. Louis, MO 63110
Camp Description: Camp programs for children ranging from grades K - 12 focusing on a variety of animal based topics. Scholarships are available for under-resourced families.
Age Range: 5 - 18
Cost Range: $68.00$375.00
Sherwood Forest Camp Website: https://www. sherwoodforeststl.org/ Phone: 314-644-3322
Address: 12430 Tesson Ferry Road Suite 304 St. Louis, MO 63143
Camp Description: By balancing traditional overnight camp with evidence-based programs that support school-year learning, Sherwood Forest connects with and inspires youth from under-resourced communities. We accept campers from 1st6th grade and give preference to those who qualify for free and reduced lunch.
Age Range: 6 - 15 Cost Range: $35.00$75.00
St. Louis Aquarium Foundation Website: https://www. stlaquariumfoundation.org/ summer-camp/ Phone: 314-923-3900
Address: 201 S. 18th Street St. Louis, MO 63103
Camp Description: At Camp Fins & Friends, kids learn about aquatic animals, think critically about conservation issues, participate in STEM-based activities and projects, and get to enjoy both the Aquarium and other attractions at Union Station! Age Range: 7 - 12
Cost Range: $300.00
St. Louis Arc Website: https://www. slarc.org Phone: 314-569-2211
Address: 1177 North Warson Road St. Louis, MO 63132
Camp Description: Neighborhood Experiences is an 8-week summer project empowering teens with disabilities in St. Louis City & County to gain skills through volunteer
has been able to socialize and enjoy activities that he would not have access to. He has also been able to work with mentors and have that male role model in his life.”
Other parents have noted the benefits of summer programs extend beyond the child’s experiences to have a ripple effect on the whole family.
“I love to see my children doing things that they enjoy while learning as well,” one mother reported following the 2024 sum-
work.
Age Range: 13 - 20
Cost Range: $300.00
St. Louis Artists’ Guild & Galleries
Website: http://www. stlouisartistsguild.org/
Phone: 314-727-6266
Address: 12 N Jackson Ave St. Louis, MO 63105
Camp Description: Arts camp with classes in painting, drawing, and mixed media. Students take classes that develop their abilities and imagination!
Age Range: 6 - 18
Cost Range: $100.00$295.00
St. Louis ArtWorks Summer Program
Website: http://www. stlartworks.org
Phone: 314-899-9734
Address: 5959 Delmar Blvd St. Louis, MO 63112
Camp Description: Teen apprenticeship program for ages 14-19, offering hands-on job training in the arts!
Age Range: 4 - 19
Cost Range: Free
St. Louis County Library
Website: https://www. slcl.org/
Phone: 314-994-3300
Address: 1412 S. Spoede Rd. St. Louis, MO 63131
Camp Description: Join the St. Louis County Library for free youth programming all year long.
Age Range: All Ages Cost Range: Free
St. Louis Public Library
Website: https://www. slpl.org/ Phone: 314-880-8169
Address: 1415 Olive Street St. Louis, MO 63103
Camp Description: St. Louis Public Library offers free week-long summer camps for kids and teens! Registration is required and space is limited.
Age Range: 3 - 18
Cost Range: Free
St. Louis Children’s Hospital Website: https://www. stlouischildrens.org/conditions-treatments/cerebral-palsy-center/sports-rehabilitation/camp-independence
Phone: 314-495-4367
Address: One Children’s Place St. Louis, MO 63110
Camp Description: At Camp Independence, children with cerebral palsy work with pediatric therapists in adaptive sports programs designed to increase campers’ activity level, aerobic fitness, strength, and balance in a safe, fun, and rewarding environment.
Age Range: 7 - 21
Cost Range: Free
St. Louis Shakespeare Festival
Website: https:// stlshakes.org/programs/ camp/
Phone: 314-531-9800
Address: 3333 Washington Ave. St. Louis, MO 63103
Camp Description: Students train with Shakespeare Festival Teaching Artists, then rehearse and prepare an abridged version of a play to be performed
mer. “It also frees me up to be able to work and do what I need to do as a single mother of four.” If these programs are so critical, why are they out-of-reach for so many kids in our region? In a 2024 Blueprint4 survey of St. Louis-area families, 83% of parents said that cost was a top barrier to securing out-of-school programming for their children. Even for parents who may have means or scholarships to cover the cost of programming, other barriers remain. Families also reported issues with knowing what programs exist, accessing camps that fit their child’s interests or
needs, finding programs with available spots, transportation to camp, and securing programming that matches their schedule.
These barriers to summer success were the impetus for Maxine Clark, CEO of the Clark-Fox Family Foundation and Founder of Build-A-Bear Workshop, to take action. In 2014, Clark created Blueprint4 to help connect St. Louis families to outof-school programming. The Blueprint4 website (blueprint4.com) is a free searchable database for after-school, school break, college prep, and summer programs across the St. Louis region. Parents
can search the site based on their child’s interests, proximity of programs to their house, support for students with special needs, available scholarships, and more. As an initiative of the nonprofit Clark-Fox Family Foundation, Blueprint4 is free for families to use and free for camps to post their information. 2024 marked 10 years of the Blueprint4 site in the community, helping to connect thousands of kids with opportunities to learn, grow, and have fun. In that decade, over 75,000 camp opportunities were listed on the Blueprint4 database and over 900,000 St.
Louis-area families conducted searches on the site.
Despite advancements in equity and information like the Blueprint4 database, not all youth have equal access to camps.
“When we look at the big picture, we see that there still aren’t enough programs to support our youth, specifically in North County and City of St. Louis,” said Abbey Barrow, Blueprint4 Program Manager. “Camp providers are doing great work, but they also need more resources and funding to offer scholarships, provide transportation, and create high-quality experiences for more kids.”
While it can be an arduous process for families to overcome barriers and secure summer programming for their kids and teens, these camps often prove pivotal in setting the path for their child’s future.
“The [summer] programs my child has been able to sample have opened up new pathways and interests of his that we previously didn’t know existed,” one St. Louis parent said of her child’s 2024 experiences. “And connecting with peers who share these interests has been quite literally lifesaving, I believe.”
for family and friends at Shakespeare’s Glen in Forest Park.
Age Range: 9 - 19
Cost Range: $850.00$1,500.00
St. Louis Tennis
Collective Website: https://www. stlcitytennis.org/ Phone: 314-368-2375
Address: 5620 Grand Dr. St. Louis, MO 63112
Camp Description: We support the voice and spirit of underserved children by providing tennis instruction at little-to-no cost. We emphasize the importance of instilling values that extend into all areas of life.
Age Range: 4 - 18
Cost Range: $275.00$500.00
STL Rock School
Website: http://www. stlrockschool.com
Phone: 314-692-7625
Address: 1305 Baur Boulevard St. Louis, MO 63132
Camp Description: Rock music summer camp for aspiring musicians of all skill levels. Scholarships Available.
Age Range: 6 - 18
Cost Range: $475.00$800.00
Strength and Honor
Mentoring and Tutoring
Website: https://www. mysah.org/events
Phone: (314)723-7582
Address: 401 Darst Rd Ferguson, MO 63135
Camp Description: SAH offers mentoring and tutoring services yearround and a youth camp each summer. Each of the 8 weeks of Summer Camp consists of field trips, enrichment, character education, STEM activities, and swimming.
Age Range: 5 - 18
Cost Range: $50$100
The J Day Camps
Website: https://jccstl. com/camps-afterschool/jday-camps/
Phone: 314-442-3423
Address: Creve Coeur St. Louis, MO 63146
Camp Description: Swimming, sports,
gymastics, arts and more. Campers in 3rd grade and older get to choose most of their daily activities!
Age Range: 3 - 14
Cost Range: $60.00$580.00
The Sophia Project Website: https://www. thesophiaproject.org/
Phone: (314) 807-8333
Address: 5501 Delmar Blvd Ste A470 St. Louis, MO 63112
Camp Description: Social Grace, SelfEfficacy, Scholarship, and Self-Care are essential components of our commitment to improving the mental and physical well-being of girls in our program.
Age Range: 11 - 18
Cost Range: $0.00$175.00
UMSL Bridge
Program
Website: https://www. umsl.edu/precollegiate/ Phone: 314-516-5196
Address: One University Blvd 107 Lucas Hall St. Louis, MO 63121
Camp Description: College Preparation Program for 6th through 12th grade students!
Age Range: 11 - 18
Cost Range: Free
UMSL Succeed Summer Enrichment
Camp
Website: https://www. umsl.edu/education/oipe/ summercamp.html
Phone: 314-516-5911
Address: 1 University Boulevard 113 Lucas Hall St. Louis, MO 63121
Camp Description: Our weeklong camp allows neurodiverse individuals aged 17 years and older to simulate a week of academic and vocational workshops, and self-determination and social skills buidling activities. Participants can stay overnight on-campus or commute to and from camp.
Age Range: 17+
Cost Range: $600.00
UMSL U-CREATE
Summer Camp
Website: https://www. umsl.edu/campusrecreation/youthprograms/ucre-
atesummercamp.html
Phone: (314) 516-2348
Address: 1 University Blvd. 229 Recreation and Wellness Center mSt. Louis, MO 63121
Camp Description: Campers can expect an array of sports, recreational activities, crafts, and team building challenges that meet the diverse interests and capabilities of our campers.
Age Range: 6 - 12
Cost Range: $170.00
University of Health Sciences & Pharmacy in St. Louis Website: https://www. uhsp.edu/why-uhsp/community-engagement/summer-camps-and-programsat-uhsp/ Phone: 314-367-8700
Address: 1 Pharmacy Pl. St. Louis, MO 63110
Camp Description: Exploring and learning the fun side of science and health. With a variety of summer camps and programming options, you’re sure to find something to enjoy.
Age Range: 12 - 18
Cost Range: $250.00$850.00
Unleashing Potential Website: https:// www.upstl.org/enrichment-camps/ Phone: 314-561-3334
Address: 221 Church Street Ferguson, MO 63135
Camp Description: Our Summer Enrichment Program’s goal is to help each child unleash their magnificent potential! Lunch and a daily snack are provided. State assistance is accepted and scholarships are available. Campers take a field trip and swim weekly.
Age Range: 5 - 12
Cost Range: $1,750
Upperlimits Rock Climbing Camps Website: https://www. upperlimits.com
Phone: 309-829-8255
Address: 3 locations in the St. Louis Area and Metro East
Camp Description: Upper Limits Summer Camps are created by
climbers, for climbers. Every camper will get to tie-dye their very own Upper Limits t-shirt!
Age Range: 6 - 15
Cost Range: $60.00$310.00
Vetta Sports Website: http:// VettaSports.com/camp Phone: 636-842-3111
Address: 5 locations across the St. Louis area
Camp Description: Discover a variety of activities, including sports such as soccer, basketball, tennis, racquetball, and kickball. Campers learn innovative team-building skills, play archery tag, and get creative with arts & crafts. Multi child and military discounts available.
Age Range: 5 - 12
Cost Range: 168.00$245.00
WashU Arts & Sciences Pre-College Programs Website: https://precollege.wustl.edu/ Phone: 314-935-4807
Address: One Brookings Drive St. Louis, MO 63130
Camp Description: Our programs provide motivated students the opportunity to challenge themselves in a supportive and encouraging atmosphere.
Age Range: 11-18
Cost Range: $785.00$3,985.00
Webster University Website: https://webster.edu/summer/ Phone: 800-981-9801
Address: 470 E. Lockwood Ave. Webster Groves, MO 63119
Camp Description: With offerings for various ages and interest, campers learn from Webster University faculty while having fun!
Age Range: 0-18
Cost Range: $90.00$675.00
YDC Throwing and Growing Camp Website: http://throwingandgrowing.org/ Phone: 314-650-1008
Address: 5401
Genevieve St. Louis, MO
63120
Camp Description: In this 9-week (MonThur) free outdoors camp, girls learn throwing sports (shotput, discus, weight throw), musical instruments (drums or keyboard), create art projects, grow and harvest an on-site garden, and explore the city. Breakfast and lunch is provided.
Age Range: 8 - 17
Cost Range: Free Gateway Region YMCA Website: https://gwrymca.org/summer-camp Address: 22 locations throughout St. Louis and the Metro East Camp Description: Enjoy daily activities from 9 am to 4 pm, Monday through Friday, featuring swimming, games, nature exploration, arts and crafts, plus more! Choose from Traditional Day Camp and Special Interest Camps - and don’t forget to take advantage of our Before and After Camp Care to extend camp hours.
Age Range: Cost Range: $35.00$370.00
YMCA Camp Lakewood
Website: https://gwrymca.org/camps/ymcacamp-lakewood Address: 13528 State Highway AA Potosi, MO 63664
Camp Description: YMCA Camp Lakewood’s summer overnight camp is for kids ages 6-17 provides a well-rounded experience for campers and gets them outdoors to connect with nature.
Age Range: 6 - 17 Cost Range: $510.00$1,645.00
This Camp Guide was produced in partnership with Blueprint4, a free database of St. Louis-area out-of-school programs. To find additional information about these summer programs and many more, visit blueprint4. com.