September 7th, 2023 edition

LouiS AmericAn

Prep football marred by off-field incidents

By Alvin A. Reid St. Louis American

The opening weeks of the area prep football schedule has been marred by game cancellation, games being halted before conclusion, and increased security.

The Sept. 8 game between host St. Mary’s and Hazelwood East was stopped early in the fourth quarter after reported gunshots in the vicinity.

Players and coaches laid down on the field, as people rushed for exits. Following the ensuing chaos, the game was not resumed, and Hazelwood was declared the winner because it held a 14-6 lead.

St. Louis American photographer Wiley Price was at the game and watched as a frenzy erupted.

“There were two shots, then there was a stampede toward the front where exits were,” he said.

“Calm was restored, but the game ended right there.’

Medical personel, faculty and parents work to stablize a stu-

dent that broke her leg jumping from the bleachers during a football game where shots were reportedly fired Friday, Sept. 1, at St. Mary’s High School. After students began running for the exits, creating chaos, the game was cancelled.

Artist at work

Bringing Medicaid into schools a Dept.

By Alvin A. Reid St. Louis American

Raising the Bar tour visits St. Louis

someone alive is about more than just funding education.”

Cardona was joined by Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra, Deputy Secretary of Education Cindy Marten, Congresswoman Cori Bush, and St. Louis Public Schools Superintendent Keisha Scarlett at Compton Drew Middle School for a discussion on mental health support.

“Good learning is good health. It

is important to treat learning as part of what makes us healthy,” Cardona said.

He explained his department and the Biden administration will press for legislation that would allow schools to apply to be health care centers.

“To be funded, you would not have to be a health care provider,” he said.

Becerra said the end of automatic

A Salute To Young Leaders in St. Louis

By Ashley Winters

are

ers in their field will be honored in an uplifting ceremony,

and they are going

include beverages and heavy hors d’oeuvres. It is strongly recommended to buy tickets early as

By Miya Norfleet

Louis Public Radio

Artist and painter “18 and Counting,” a.k.a. Stan Chissum, completing his mural at last weekend’s 26th annual Paint St. Louis at The Wall that ran Friday through Sunday. Over 500 graffiti artists from all over the world participated in the event.

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American

Ricky Hughes creates social media content with his 77-year-old father, Richard, for the Northside Trap Run.

Photo by Tyler Small

Rebecca Bennett

Cash Money Records ‘Taking Ova For Tha 99 2000’

According to Vibe Magazine, Cash Money Records B.G. is reported to be released from prison after spending more than 10 years in the slammer. The Jasmine Brand report shows the rapper is set to be released for his “probationary period” and could be home as soon as this week. Born Christopher Dorsey, B.G. was arrested in 2009 following a traffic stop in New Orleans, during which authorities found three guns, two of which were stolen. In 2011, the once famed ‘Hot Boy’ pleaded guilty to two counts of possession

of a firearm and one count of conspiracy to obstruct justice, giving him a 14-year federal prison sentence the following year, with three years of federal supervised release. The Hot Boys member had previously attempted to gain compassionate release from prison during the COVID-19 pandemic but was denied three times. B.G. was one of the most popular breakout stars of Cash Money Records in the ‘‘90s– He helped bring the label to prominence with his solo work, as well as a member of the Hot Boys, which released the platinum-certified album Guerilla Warfare in 1999.

received two defective microphones in a row and threw one injuring a concertgoer. But the rapper’s lawyer says he “would never” intentionally hit someone with a mic. Entertainment Weekly reported the victim who 50 Cent allegedly hit with the mic was standing in the production area near the stage. The alleged victim, Power 106 radio host Bryhana Monegain fers from a laceration on her forehead. She shared images with media outlet TMZ.

50 Cent takes crowd participation to a whole new level

According to Entertainment Weekly, the multi-millionaire, chart-topping rapper 50 Cent threw a microphone into the crowd at his show in Los Angeles on Wednesday night. Apparently, the rapper got pretty pissed when he

The King of Pop’s daughter has to get a restraining order

Paris Jack son, daughter of Micheal Jack son, had to get a restraining order after an alleged intrud er climbed a fence

at her home. According to TMZ the ‘peeping tom’ climbed the tree and was looking through her window. According to Jackson, this isn’t her first run-in with the stalker, she claims this guy has stalked her for years, and now she is seeking protection. Documents obtained by TMZ say the pop star’s daughter filed for an order of protection two days after police were called to her Los Angeles home after she claimed an alleged intruder was spotted on her property. Jackson says the man has been sending her letters since 2019 and she has become terrified to be alone in her own home. She is asking the judge to prevent the man from contacting her online and from coming within at least 100 yards of her home, car or any location where she is performing.

Sources: TMZ.com, Vibe.com, entertainmentweekly. com

“[Our Democracy] will only be as strong as our willingness to fight for it.”

- Vice President Kamala Harris on accountability for Jan. 6 insurrection

City residency requirement lifted; could help fill jobs

American staff

A work requirement that slowed St. Louis’ attempt to fill open opposition has been lifted, and Mayor Tishaura O. Jones could not be happier.

She recently joined with city employees to promote available job openings after the state law allowing the city to lift the residency requirement was enacted.

The city’s Department of Personnel has lifted the residency requirement for all employees, allowing St. Louis to recruit talent from outside city limits. A list of open positions can be found on the City’s website at stlouis-mo.gov/jobs.

“At each of my department tours, I’ve heard first-hand how city employees take pride in the work they do to serve the residents of St. Louis,” said Jones.

“Lifting the residency requirement opens doors to dedicated public servants throughout the region who want to join a diverse and dynamic team that makes positive change in our city. Just as we have invested in City workers with raises, I believe this new step

will help us become more competitive in hiring and retention.”

According to the National League of Cities, local government workforce has declined 4.5% since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In St. Louis, the lifting of the residency requirement eliminates boundaries that inhibit the ability for the city to recruit and retain quality employees.

The city currently has approximately 700 open positions across nearly all departments, with the city prioritizing applicants for 9-1-1 dispatchers, refuse truck drivers, utility workers, tree trimmers, and more.

“Working at St. Louis Lambert International Airport, the residency requirement would have forced me to choose between my job and my family,” said Jerry Moore, an employee of the St. Louis Lambert International Airport planning team.

“I am so grateful that I have the opportunity to serve St. Louis while keeping the flexibility to raise my family.”

The airport will need more employees soon.

Southwest Airlines will add seasonal nonstop service between St. Louis and Los Cabos, Mexico on March 9, 2024. The route compliments seasonal service to resume the same day between St. Louis and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

Also beginning March 9, the carrier resumes seasonal service on weekends between St. Louis and three coastal destinations in Florida: Palm Beach, Pensacola, and Destin/Fort Walton Beach.

Daily nonstop service restored between St. Louis and San Francisco (SFO) beginning March 7, 2024.

“Our passengers have been patient, but we are grateful that Southwest Airlines realizes the demand in St. Louis for non-stop service to the Bay Area,” said Airport Director Rhonda Hamm-Niebruegge.

“With the return of flights to San Francisco, St. Louis passengers now have the option of traveling to anyone of the three

Bay Area airports.”

In March 2023, Southwest scheduled a total of 712 flights each week. In comparison, the airline next March will increase their scheduled flights by 119 for a total of 831 weekly.

City employees have received pay raises for the past two years, in addition to ratifying contracts with better pay raises and benefits with nearly all employee unions.

This change impacts all city workers, but full-time

employees who occupy public safety/emergency response positions must maintain a primary residence within a one-hour response time of their regularly assigned place of work. Decisions on remote work will be made by appointing authorities in individual departments.

A list of open positions can be found on the City’s website at stlouis-mo.gov/ jobs.

Photo courtesy of Southwest Airlines

The lifting of the residency requirement for city employees could help Lambert St. Louis International Airport fill some of its job vacancies - especially with Southwest Airlines planning flight additions in March 2024.

Editorial/Commentary

Guest Editorial

Just as we can hire elected employees during one election, we can also fire them during the next election. Sadly, it seems we give many of them job security regardless of what they do or fail to do.

We are the boss; let’s act like one

By Janice Ellis

As we paused this week to pay

to the

and contributions of workers and their

to

conditions, the role that employers play — for good or ill — is inescapable.

How are employers measuring up in caring out their responsibilities to employees?

A recent Pew Research Center survey provides a thorough assessment.

How would you measure up as an employer?

Yes, you are an employer. As taxpaying citizens, we all are employers.

We provide and support working conditions, through our tax dollars, for elected officials and other public employees.

If you were evaluated as an employer, how would you measure up?

When it comes to working conditions, hours, health benefits, retirement, and competitive salaries — for what is at best a half-time or three-quarter time job for most elected officials — we would be considered great employers.

A brief review of Congressional salaries and allowances is a compelling example.

Based on their salaries, benefits and other perks, one could argue elected officials, i.e., elected employees, have some of the best working conditions.

Elected employees do not have to suffer the discomfort and annoyance of being micromanaged. In fact, it’s questionable whether they have to deal with being managed at all.

monitor and hold them accountable?

In your job, are you left to do whatever you want? Say whatever you want? Push your own or someone else’s agenda or priorities at the expense of doing your job?

Doubtful.

Yet, as the employer we tolerate our elected employees working fewer hours, accessing better benefits, and receiving good salaries for not doing what we hired them to do.

Many if not most of us struggle to pay taxes from our hard-earned income and yet we accept such behavior.

Some of us even rail against a welfare system that provides needed financial support and benefits for some of the neediest among us. But are we guilty of subsidizing a welfare system under the guise of representative government — a system which often fails to do its job where most needed?

As employers of federal, state, and municipal elected officials, we have the power election after election to stop their poor job performance. But too often we do not use it.

We keep hiring many of the same poor performers who instead of working for us are choosing to work for a political party, a personality, or some special interest that has nothing to do with what is best for the public or the country.

As registered voters, we are in charge. We are in control.

Just as we can hire elected employees during one election, we can also fire them during the next election. Sadly, it seems we give many of them job security regardless of what they do or fail to do.

By Marc Morial

“It is not merely sympathy and compassion for the Black people of America that motivates us. It is above all and beyond all such sympathies and emotions a sense of complete identification and solidarity born of our own painful historic experience. … bigotry and hatred are not the most urgent problem. The most urgent, the most disgraceful, the most shameful and the most tragic problem is silence.” — Rabbi Joachim Prinz, March on Washington, 1963

The 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom was organized by six Black-led civil rights organizations: National Urban League, Southern Christian Leadership Conference, NAACP, Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, Congress of Racial Equality, and the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters.

violence, tackling climate change to save the planet, and eradicating poverty in the wealthiest nation on earth.

We all are threatened by the wave of extremism that is sweeping through statehouses and school boards and encroaches on the halls of Congress and the Oval Office.

The 60th-anniversary observance of the March on Saturday was organized by a broad coalition of civil rights and social justice organizations, reflecting a strong emphasis on multi-racial unity. Principal organizers National Action Network and the Drum Major Institute were joined by co-chairs National Urban League, NAACP, Anti-Defamation League, Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAJC), Human Rights Campaign, Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, Legal Defense Fund, The National Coalition on Black Civic Participation, National Conference of Negro Women, and Unidos US.

The march was supported by hundreds of community organizations, labor unions, and churches, all committed to defending democracy, dismantling systemic racism, putting an end to police brutality and gun

The leading exemplar of this extremist agenda has emerged in Florida, where Gov. Ron DeSantis’ education department has censored books about the Holocaust and clamped down on discussions of race, gender identity and sexual orientation. He continues working to suppress the vote and devised a plan to wipe away half of the state’s Black-dominated congressional districts, dramatically diminishing Black voting strength. He’s effectively eliminated the right of women to make decisions about their reproductive health. He’s enabling the proliferation of gun violence and hampering efforts to stop it. He fought against raising the wage for Florida’s lowest-paid workers and made it harder for workers to seek better working conditions.

The only way to defeat an agenda that threatens us all is to unite. The theme of Saturday’s march was Not A Commemoration, A Continuation. The goals for which a quarter-million Americans peacefully gathered in 1963 are not relics to be admired in a museum, but an ongoing movement. Together with our brothers and sisters of every race, faith, sexuality, gender identity, ethnicity and national origin, we will transform the heat of oppression into an oasis of freedom and justice just as Martin Luther King Jr. foresaw 60 years ago.

Marc Morial is president/CEO of the National Urban League.

Once they are elected to the job, they are free to go about their business, doing what they want, when they want, or nothing at all.

This is especially the case for some elected employees in Congress who are busy chasing political investigations — real or imagined.

Is that why you voted for them? Is that what you hired them to do?

What are they getting done in those areas we care about? Passing meaningful policies to finally address the immigration crisis; reduce senseless gun violence; make sure all Americans can access needed health care services; reform the tax system so that everyone pays their fair share of taxes; ensure that all citizens can cast a vote without obstruction.

A recent poll shows that the approval rating for the current Congress’s performance is 19%, an all-time low. What are we going to do about it?

The real question: As their employer, what are we willing to do to manage,

Where is the management and accountability of elected officials at any level of government?

There are many things we can do to manage and hold elected officials accountable.

We are in the greatest position of all. We cannot be fired for expressing our opinion, making suggestions and recommendations, or providing interim evaluations and warnings that they could lose their job.

As employees, we have to do our jobs and do them well. If we fail to do so, especially repeatedly, we will be warned if not fired outright.

Why would we not have the same expectations and enforce the same consequences for our elected employees? What kind of employer are we?

Janice Ellis analyzes educational, political, social and economic issues across race, ethnicity, age and socio-economic status

America again faces a reckoning

By Jesse Jackson Jr.

This country faces a reckoning. The question is whether we will come together or fall apart, move forward or descend toward a moral abyss. In this time of deep discord, of partisan divide, racial tension, extreme inequality, the outcome is far from certain.

As fraught as this time is, however, it is not unique. We have faced such moments before.

When this nation was founded on the proposition that all were created equal, the Founders could not duck the question of slavery. States with large numbers of slaves wanted the slaves to be counted for purposes of representation and taxation, even though they were considered property, without any rights. To form the union, the Founders compromised the Constitution, with slaves counted as three-fifths of a person — three-fifth human — increasing the number of representatives from the slave states while remaining in bondage.

In the end, it took a civil war — with the most casualties of any war in American history — to bring an end to this depravity. That triumph was driven by an abolitionist movement, by increased slave revolts, by strong leaders like Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln, and by whites and Blacks willing to risk their lives to preserve the union and eventually to save it from the moral abyss of slavery.

Then, after a period of Reconstruction when biracial majorities transformed the South, creating the first public school systems and a new economy, a relentless reaction set in, with terrorism — lynchings, murders, beatings, intimidation — stripping the new free man of their rights and driving their allies apart. What followed was nearly a century of legal apartheid — segregation — in which Blacks were deprived of the right to vote, the right to sit on juries, access to public facilities and more. Once more, America was scarred by a moral depravity.

This time, it required a nonviolent civil rights movement with courageous whites joining African Americans demanding their rights. The country responded when they witnessed the horrors of the Birmingham bombing, Bloody Sunday in Selma and more. That movement for

justice forced politicians to react, and with strong leaders like Lyndon Johnson and Martin Luther King, they reconstituted America with the passage of the Civil Rights Bill, and the Voting Rights legislation. Once more coalitions like the Rainbow Coalition came together to exercise those rights, register people to vote, and elect new leaders to lead the way. Now, with America growing more diverse — and yet more unequal with the wealthy few capturing almost all of the rewards of growth — a new reaction is building, driven by cynical politicians who fan racial division for political profit. A reactionary majority in the Supreme Court gutted the Voting Rights Act, repealed affirmative action, opened the floodgates to big and secret money in politics, and authorized political gerrymandering. Donald Trump, personifying that reaction, launched a multistate, multi-layered effort to overturn his loss in a democratic election to stay in power. Once more America faces a reckoning. As history teaches us, it will take a broad coalition of concerned citizens — drawn across lines of race, region and religion — to come together to save democracy. Courageous leaders can resist the efforts to undermine democracy, as Republican officials did in Arizona and Georgia.

Courageous prosecutors like Atlanta’s Fani Willis, can seek to enforce the rule of law. In the end, however, the American people will decide if the country will continue to move forward, or if those who scorn its laws to divide us will succeed. Whether or not Donald Trump and his co-conspirators are found guilty in a court of law, the threat that they represent will only be defeated by the decision of the American people at the polls. Once more we must decide the course this country will take.

Time and time again, courageous leaders have responded and molded their energies into political reforms that made America better. Now once more, the country needs that movement and that leadership to move us forward.

The Rev. Jesse Jackson is founder and former president of the Rainbow / PUSH Coalition

Columnist Jesse Jackson

Columnist Marc H. Morial

Guest Columnist Janice Ellis

Legacy Institute honors community servants, students

St. Louis American staff

Legacy Institute recently celebrated its inaugural award ceremony where “we had the pleasure of highlighting our fantastic youth and our program,” said Terran Rome, Legacy Institute executive director.

“They shared their unforgettable and inspiring learning experiences.”

Building Together Community Service Awards were presented to developer Kevin Bryant, Alderwoman Shameem Clark-Hubbard, state Sen. Karla May, SLDC Director Neal Richardson, and Rickey Whittington.

“We would like to invite more parents and

volunteers to our program. At Legacy Institute we encourage our parents and youth to learn the importance of Black history, entrepreneurship, the game of chess, leadership, and the significance of credit,” said Rome. Registration for the next Legacy Institute session, which begins February 24, 2024, is open at www.legacyinsitute.org.

Legacy Institute seeks to build a greater sense of self, self-worth and understanding of Black history and culture. Participants are paired with mentors and gain exposure to a variety of career and occupation opportunities. In addition, the different pathways to college are illuminated.

The art of ‘code-switching’

By Camike Jones

Code-switching is the art of making a smooth as silk transition from board room banter to street corner slang.

With ease and liquidity, we jump in and out of standard English and vernacular in the blink of an eye.

Some feel code-switching is an indictment on the use of slang. The idea being if a person decides to code-switch, then they must not be living their full, authentic life.

Others feel it is a necessary part of the Black American experience. Certain words or phrases are only appropriate when we are among family and friends.

Lately, the sentiment has grown that there is no longer a need to code-switch. We want to talk in the office the same way we talk at the cookout. We want to be authentic. We want to live out loud. We no longer want to be ashamed of how we speak.

Recently, I was speaking to two other Black women about how we have, over the years, learned to monitor our tone of voice and facial expressions to not appear aggressive or angry.

The stereotype of the “angry Black woman” is so prevalent and pervasive that from an early age we adapted our natural voices to appease people whose biases color their views of us before we even have a chance to speak.

What a heavy burden to carry – always making sure each syllable was spoken exactly according to standard English rules in the hopes of being seen as equally human.

As I learned to appreciate African American Vernacular English (AAVE), which is becoming recognized as a legitimate language, I felt less compelled to code-switch. AAVE has a rich history filled with words originating from decades and centuries before us. The words represent the speaking patterns of our ancestors.

Are you ready? Or are you ready ready? The difference between the two being whether you would like to go or you absolutely cannot wait to go. Doubling up words for emphasis is said to be found in some West African languages. While the language changed, the pattern remained.

Some AAVE words were derived from southern terminology that traveled the same path as the Great Migration. Fixing to became finna. Going to became gon. Aren’t became ain’t. These words can be heard across the country.

Other AAVE vocabulary was birthed in jazz, blues, rock, soul and hip hop. Thanks to rapper Lil Wayne, everyone now knows what ‘bling’ is. The term was even added to the dictionary.

Language is fluid. It evolves over time just like the people who speak it. Whether people choose to code-switch or not, what is no longer needed is the shame associated with how we choose to speak. A person’s speech is not indicative of their goodness, worth or intelligence. Speech is a skill developed over time. Intellect is a trait given at birth.

So, if you are done code-switching or you are “done done code-switching,” there isn’t, I mean, ain’t no shame in it.

Camike Jones is editor-in-chief of the Indianapolis Recorder

Kingston Harrell, 12, and Rylee Day, 13, shared the importance of respective courses in financial empowerment and leadership during the first Legacy Institute Awards ceremony.

Photos courtesy of Legacy Institute

Camike Jones

Medicaid

re-enrollment for Medicaid recipients means “a whole lot of kids might lose their Medicaid.”

In Missouri, since the re-enrollment process began earlier this summer, around 40,000 of the roughly 54,000 Missourians who lost Medicaid coverage lost it for procedural reasons. Of that number, more than half are children.

The roundtable was part of the “Raising the Bar” tour which is traveling throughout America. Cardona, Becerra, and other administration officials are visiting public schools to hear from teachers, students, and counselors.

“We want to raise the bar on mental health support,” Cardona said.

Marten said the “raising the bar means delivering on equity.”

“It’s giving students what they need when they need it. It means investing in ways that make measurable differences.”

The roundtable also included Desiree Speed, SLPS head counselor, Dwight Cato, a Froebel Elementary counselor, Tracey Moore, ComptonDrew social worker, and Christian Cofield, a Pamoja Prep Academy counselor.

Cato said having a fulltime nurse on staff and an on-house therapist are making a positive difference at his school.

He said he no longer must split his day between two SLPS schools, adding “when I’m there full time it makes a difference.”

Moore said social workers and counselors are re-thinking education.

“We push into classrooms with curriculum we created ourselves,” she said.

Trap Run

Continued from A1

Continued from A1 Run, returning for its sixth year this Saturday.

Paint St. Louis at The Wall

Darlynn Bosley speaking with award-winning St. Louis-based artist Cbabi at “The Wall” near the end of Chouteau Blvd. at the Mississippi River Front. The event was this past weekend’s 26th annual Paint St. Louis at The Wall that ran Friday thru Sunday. Over 500 graffiti artists from all over the world participated in the event.

“I want kids to get out of thinking that it’s not safe to talk about things [like mental health.]”

After Cardona invited responses to the inquiry, “How are the children?” the representatives agreed almost in unison “They are not doing well.’

“Social media is a nightmare,” said Moore. “Kids are raising

St. Louis Run Crew founder Ricky Hughes said that the inspiration to start a running club came after his first Trap Run in 2021. [Northside Trap Run]

themselves. There is gun violence, many of our students has lost close relatives. They don’t know how to process that. Our kids are hurting – but they are trying.’ Cato said “[the students] aren’t well. But they are resilient. They are strong.”

changed my life — my whole running journey and the experience of running with other folks was created at Trap Run,” Hughes explained, specifically of his goals

“That’s 100% of why I keep showing up.’

Cofield said finding resources for parenting classes would help young students – and their parents.

Scarlett said sustained funding for SLPS, and the nation’s public schools is imperative.

to bring more Black and brown St. Louisans into the sport. Hughes continued to sign up for the Northside Trap Run and later connected with founders Aaron Williams

“We have to fund our values, and that is our children,” she said “We also must remove the stigma of mental health. That is essential for us to move forward.”

Moore also told the secretaries she favors the elimination of standardized testing.

and Kameel Stanley, which led to his becoming the run’s ambassador.

One of the many people moved to action by Hughes’ online and real-life advocacy is his father, Richard Hughes.

The 77-year-old was born in the Ville and lived there through his college years. The elder Hughes remembers the days when residents would say they are from the Ville with pride, and he looks forward to walking the race route in his old stomping grounds.

“When I told [Ricky]

“[Testing] needs to disappear. A test does not define who they are. It doesn’t tell what that scholar is capable of.’ Becerra closed the session by calling this discussion “very grounding.” “If you’re going to learn, you have to be healthy,” he said.

that my house was still standing, he immediately had to go over there and see the house. It’s kind of thrilling to realize that he’s now going back to the place where [I came from]. I’m humbled by that,” Richard Hughes said. This year’s Northside Trap Run includes 11 DJs along the run route, a festival with local vendors and health organizations and the option to run with furry, four-legged friends.

“I’ll be bringing my dog out,” Ricky Hughes said. “All faces, paces, laces and leashes this year.”

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American

Continued from A1

Hazelwood East football coach Bobby Cole told the Post-Dispatch “They claimed that there were shots fired, but we did not hear any shots.”

Something obviously made the kids and fans run. Our kids, we directed them to stay on the field, our kids, and our cheerleaders. They pretty much just laid on the ground, on the turf on the field.”

The Sept. 1 football game between Vashon and Cardinal Ritter at STEM High School was postponed by St. Louis Public Schools following an altercation at Vashon earlier that day. According to an SLPS statement “threats were made, and at this time District leaders feel the safest course of action is to postpone the game.”

There has been no announcement of a makeup date for the game between two of the area’s top football teams.

Pattonville was host to Ritenour on August 25 and the game was also postponed after an incident. Fans fled after what was feared to be gunshots. The report was not substantiated.

“There was a disturbance with some kids. Police officers asked those students to leave. They just took off running,”

Pattonville Superintendent Dr. Barry Nelson said.

“Kids saw them running, chased after them. It resulted in us needing to go ahead and cancel the game just out of an abundance of caution.”

Salute

Continued from A1

a sellout is anticipated. To purchase tickets visit stlamerican.com.

Raven Whitener

St. Louis American Foundation and Special Events director said, “It’s going to be a very enjoyable and entertaining evening,” She said last year’s Salute To Young Leaders ceremony was completely sold out, it was the biggest event for the foundation to date. This year the foundation received over 300 nominations.

With excitement in her voice, “This is unheard of,” said Whitener.

“We’ve had more nominations than we’ve had winners over the 11 years

Pattonville hosted Kirkwood the following week without incident. A security checkpoint was moved to the ticketing area at the football stadium and floodlights were added to the parking lot.

A Metro East game between Alton and Quincy was played under increased restrictions on Sept. 1 after several reported fights on the Alton campus. School officials canceled classes on Thursday due to the

we’ve been doing the award ceremony” Whitener says at an event like this, guests have the opportunity to network with key community leaders in a variety of career fields that are pushing St. Louis forward. “It’s a great way to get your foot in the door,” she said.

Whitener is expecting another sold-out event-- as the Salute To Young Leaders Award ceremony, with emcee Rebecca Bennett, gains attraction she hopes one day it can reach the status of ‘40 under 40’.

“This city has the capacity that have young people doing things that are worthy of being honored,” said Whitener.

Ashley Winters is a Report for America reporter for the St. Louis American.

number of fights the day prior.

The Madison County Sheriff’s Department was summoned to the school to help security break up the fights.

Alton Athletic Director Chris Kusnerick said in a release that the game would be played “under attendance restrictions tomorrow night similar

to what we had during COVID.”

Only parents and immediate family of the Alton football team, cheer, and band were allowed to attend.

The rash of incidents is not limited to St. Louis, and other incidents have been more violent.

Gunfire during a Sept. 1 high school football game

in Baton Rouge, La., left a 16-year-old student and dead and a woman wounded, according to local police.

The game was suspended, and spectators found a parking lot filled with emergency vehicles as they departed.

On August 25, one person was killed, and several others were wounded

in Choctaw, Oklahoma during a game between Choctaw and Del City. Also in Tulsa, Oklahoma at Booker T. Washington stadium a teen male was said to have waved a gun. The ensuing panic resulted in the fourth-quarter stoppage of the game against Bentonville West.

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American

Medical personel and a faculty member of Hazelwood East High School place a student on a gurney who broke her leg jumping from the bleachers to escape gunfire during a football game Friday, Sept. 1, 2023 at St. Mary’s High School. After students began running from the scene to the parking lot school officials cancelled the game.

Help us highlight and celebrate these remarkable young and ambitious achievers serving a wide range of St. Louis organizations.

2023 Salute to Young Leaders/ Networking Awards Reception

Proudly honoring 30 amazing African Americans under age 40 for their career achievement and unselfish dedication to community service.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2023 FOUR SEASONS ST. LOUIS // 5:30–7:30PM

BRANDON MURRAY

Dir. of DEI & Accessibility The College School

LAUREN PRESTON

Dir. of Communications & Marketing KIPP St. Louis

ANDRICO SPATES Sr. Manager, Global Partner Sales Cisco

PRINCESS STORMM APD/On-Air Personality Audacy

TERRON WHITE

Dir. of Physical Facilities & Stationary Engineering CareSTL Health

AWARDEES

EBBI NICOLE

Founder & Chief FLUFFtivist Fluffy GRL Movement

STACEY PUGH

Conference Service Manger Four Seasons St. Louis

RENELLE SPINKS Dir. of Diversity & Inclusion, Student Life Maryville University

QUINTON WARD Sr. Manager of MetroMarket Operation Food Search

ANTHONY “REDD” WILLIAMS

Owner/Artistic Director Kode Redd

PARTNER SPONSORS

Presented by

ANGELA PEARSON

Special Projects Manager, Mayor’s Office City of St. Louis

FARRAKHAN SHEGOG

Young Voices with Action, President Urban League of Metro. St. Louis

DARRELL STEWART

Deputy Program Manager The Boeing Company

MARLA WELLS

Sr. Asst. Director of Finance The Ritz Carlton, St. Louis

MORGAN D. WILLIAMS Program Manager, DE&I Ameren Corporation

Harriet Gates passes

Harriet C. Gates was born in and resided in St. Louis, Missouri her entire life. She was a graduate of Sumner High School where she met her future husband Clifton W. Gates and went on to earn her teaching degree from Harris Stowe Teachers College. Harriet followed her passion to teach and retired from the St. Louis Public School District after many years teaching thousands of students at Clark Elementary School.

Over the years Harriet enjoyed cooking and entertaining with Clifton for many friends and charities that were very dear to them, especially the Urban League of Metropolitan St Louis and the Barnes Jewish Kidney Transplant Foundation. Additionally, Harriet opened her beautiful home to Whitney

Harriet Gates

Young, Jr, Martha Graham, Dionne Warwick, Katherine Dunham, governors, mayors, congressmen and many more over the years. She was a member of the St Louis Cathedral Basilica and enjoyed spending time with her children Mark and

Lisa, her granddaughter Talor and her niece and great-nephew Rita and Michael as well as many more nieces, nephews and cousins. She was the loving matriarch of the family.

“From the day I was born, my Great Aunt Harriet played a major role in my life! As a nurturing figure, friend, supporter, mentor, advocate and educator, she has always been there for me in any and every way that I have ever wanted or needed personally and professionally,” said her Great Nephew Michael P. McMillan, president and CEO of the Urban League. “I could not have asked for a better aunt in this lifetime! She has been a jewel to me, our entire family and St. Louis!”

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Obama Presidential Museum Library Director to speak at Art Museum

More than 30 years ago, the Saint Louis Art Museum began what was considered a novel idea: create a one-year paid Fellowship to increase the diversity among museum professionals. The position, named in honor of Romare Bearden, was designed to work across the Art Museum to provide significant experiences to emerging museum professionals and prepare them better to compete nationally for arts-related positions.

In 2021, the Museum launched the annual Advancing Change Diversity Summit, an outgrowth of the fellowship that focuses on national issues of diversity, equity, access, and inclusion within cultural institutions. On September 29, we invite you to join us for a free on-site and virtual summit, Advancing Change: Museums, Libraries, and Communities.

tions at the New York Public Library, as curator of prose and drama for the Yale Collection of American Literature at the Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library at Yale University, and as assistant professor of English at Georgetown University.

Advancing Change: Museums, Libraries, and Communities Diversity Summit

Friday, September 29, 2023

Farrell Auditorium 9 am – 2 pm FREE. Registration is required Information and Registration

Presentations and lively discussions begin at 9 am as we bring together museum and library leaders to share how they are constructing places for community engagement beyond the institution’s walls, transforming the perception of museums and libraries as unchanging spaces.

Dr. Louise Bernard, senior vice president at the Obama Foundation and founding director of the Obama Presidential Center Museum, will deliver the keynote address. Since 2017, Bernard has led the design, development, and operation of the Museum of the Obama Presidential Center, which is scheduled to open in Chicago in 2025. Her current research engages with the literary archive, material culture, museology, public history, and interpretive planning and design. In the past, she has served as director of exhibi-

Min Jung Kim, the Barbara B. Taylor Director of the Saint Louis Art Museum; Renée Brummell Franklin, the Museum’s chief diversity officer; and Dr. Carla Hayden, Director of the Library of Congress, will provide remarks and greetings. Rounding out the day’s agenda will be two panel discussions—Beyond Museum Walls and Community Collaborations: Modeling New Narratives—will beled by Romare Bearden Fellow alum arts and cultural leaders from across the country. Dr. Carla Hayden was sworn in as the 14th Librarian of Congress in 2016 as the first woman and first African American to lead the national library in Washington, DC. She was nominated to the position by President Barack Obama. Before this position, Hayden was CEO of the Enoch Pratt Free Library in Baltimore, Maryland. She was a driving force in keeping libraries relevant and in touch with the communities they serve.

We invite you to register today at slam.org under events. Free tickets for the on-site program can be picked up in person at the Museum’s Information Centers. All tickets secured through MetroTix incur a service charge; the service charge is waived for tickets obtained in person at the Museum.

Dr. Louise Bernard, Senior Vice President of the Obama Foundation and the Founding Director of the Obama Presidential Center Museum

Dr. Carla Hayden, Director of the Library of Congress

Taylor Marrie’s turn

Taylor Marrie McIntosh navigates her world through photography and the visual arts

Dawn Suggs

The St. Louis American

This otherwise soft-spoken, low-key and reserved twenty-two year old, Taylor Marrie McIntosh, who recently settled on the moniker “Taylor Marrie,” becomes authoritative and decisive when it comes to recording what she observes through her lens. In a confined space, an office, a gallery or museum, she takes noticeably few shots and knows without hesitation when she’s got the one she wants.

I met Taylor when The St. Louis American was looking for a photo intern already immersed in photography, someone really driven who needed photography for sustenance. We knew if we gave the opportunity to a woman of color they needed to be someone with great determination and grit to endure the elite, white, male-dominated field of professional photojournalism. At the recommendation of Trizette Dixon, director of the Internship Program in the School of Communications, Webster University, we met Taylor McIntosh. It was clear from her portfolio, and the experiences she discussed, Taylor was already navigating her environment, a world of diverse, intersectional and overlapping cultures which reflected

her own identity, through photography. This included art shows, cheer competitions, protests, raves, fashion shows and more experimental happenings. When asked about her dream assignments, we learned she had an unfulfilled passion for concert photography, including a tolerance for jumping into sweaty, funky pits, where you’re sure to get pushed and jostled by other photographers who don’t worry about clipping you when going for a shot. Taylor was already a paid studio photographer, working freelance while earning her bachelor’s degree at Webster, when Dixon encouraged her to try photojournalism, push herself beyond her comfort Zone, and that’s what she did when she joined The St. Louis American. Slowly she started getting access to concerts, shooting fans in line ahead of concerts before she started getting press passes. We wondered if she really had a taste for concert photography or photojournalism as a profession, considering all that comes with the territory – having to hustle with men unaccustomed to the presence of a young Black woman on their turf. Getting told “No, you can’t take my picture” by skeptic Black St. Louisans again and again. Taylor is athletic

and persistent, a former competitive cheerleader.

At the heels of the internship we asked her, “Do you still have taste for photojournalism or would you rather stick to a controlled studio environment, where you don’t necessarily have to take bull from guys, who are physically aggressive on their beats while shooting “in the field,” and who let you know they don’t

think you belong in their ranks?” She replied with a smile and a laugh, “I’m an athlete and I grew up with two big brothers. I’m used to fighting.” She also mentioned that some male concert photographers, like LB (Lawrence Bryant), a photographer who was recruited by agencies after his documentation of the Ferguson Uprising for the St. Louis American, were really supportive and gave

her tips on how to position herself and where to move to get good shots. While Taylor must interact and get up in the faces and spaces of real people as a photographer, the figures that populate her paintings are phantasmic. They are individuals and groups with exaggerated heads and features, identifiable as personalities through the strong prominent shapes and colors

Taylor Marrie had her first solo show at Kranzberg Foundation’s Sophie’s Lounge, which ended Tuesday, September 6, 2023.

she chooses; however somewhat racially ambiguous. I asked Taylor what kind of artist she considers herself and she responded that she’s a “visual artist” who really enjoys all kinds of art “from 2d acrylic on canvas paintings, painting on found objects and murals… but also photography, as well as ceramics and sculpture.”

When asked about identity, she asserted, “I represent the Black and mixed community as well as the queer community... [I’m a “creative person”] just being myself and being honest about my experiences with storytelling through my art. She added, “Some people think that puts you in a box, but I think when you define yourself and embrace labels that feel comfortable to you, it makes people relate to you and see themselves in you much more.” Taylor Marrie’s first solo show, at Sophie’s Lounge (a Kranzberg Arts space), ended Tuesday, Sept. 5, but you’ll have a chance to see her paintings on display and for sale at The St. Louis Art show this weekend, Friday, Sept. 8 through Sunday, Sept. 10, and her photography in The St. Louis American.

Dawn Suggs is a writer, filmmaker, and digital director at The St. Louis American.

Every item that winds up in your paper – or plastic – bag wouldn’t make it home if some of your favorite grocery store workers didn’t make it to work by riding Metro. The more you look around, the more you’ll see. We all need Metro, whether we ride or not.

Photo courtesy of Taylor Marrie

Rocking ‘sugar baby’s’ world in Rockwood

We haven’t peeked out into the Rockwood school district in a while, but we certainly owe our readers an update, as so much has changed since our February column. The “Real Housewives of the Board of Aldermen” starts back up next Friday, so until then, let’s start with the recent criminal charges filed against the long-term partner of a controversial St. Louis County school board member. The arrest of Fabian Marta, the romantic partner of “sugar baby”turned-MAGA Rockwood School Board member Jessica Laurent Clark, was a noteworthy event, primarily due to the “sugar daddy’s” reputation among right-wing extremist political circles. Marta served as the campaign treasurer for Clark’s 2022 political action committee for the Rockwood Board of Education. Marta, who gained status within the Q-Anon cult for funding a film that purportedly exposes the child trafficking industry, was arrested for…child trafficking. Well, accessory to kidnapping to be more exact, and he was arrested by the St. Louis Metropolitan Police on July 23, less than two days after the alleged incident. Marta has been accused of helping a man kidnap two young girls from their mother at a Jeff-Vander-Lou apartment and “harboring” them in a Fountain Park apart-

ment owned by Marta, even blocking police from entering the apartment to retrieve the children. The children that Marta helped to kidnap and conceal from their mother were not Marta’s own children, and because the West County man has no relation or custody ties to them, SLMPD rightfully arrested and booked him.

Marta made international headlines last month, when newly appointed Circuit Attorney Gabe Gore filed criminal charges against him in St. Louis City related to the kidnapping. Hiring immediately an attorney famous in St. Louis for representing innocent clients - Scott Rosenblum - Marta posted a $15,000 bond and seemingly has laid low, pending his October 5 preliminary hearing, where a judge will determine if Gore has gathered enough evidence to proceed with the criminal proceedings against Marta.

The Chesterfield man’s fall from grace and potentially into an orange jumpsuit isn’t an occasion to take lightly. The self-righteous vigilante mentality shared by Marta and other white men like him (including the January 6 insurrectionists) is one that has plagued this country for hundreds of years, oftentimes resulting in a lot of death and destruction. Seeing any sort of reckoning for the type of behavior, as both SLMPD

and the children’s mother have alleged, is reaffirming that sometimes, our legal system can get it right.

Our readers may recall Laurent’s stumble into St. Louis County politics in the spring of 2022 alongside Islam “Izzy” Imig, when the two women were elected to the Rockwood Board of Education. Unfortunately, both women chose a political platform for a public school board seat that promoted racism and hatred within the schools, specifically targeting historically accurate curricula that teach about Missouri’s slave-holding past. They have also launched hatebased campaigns against LGBTQ+ and differently-abled students within the Rockwood public school system. Moreover Laurent was even stripped of some of her school board duties following some disturbing comments that reflected her opinions about disabled children and their parents who attend board meetings. In other words, the only two people of color on the Rockwood Board of Education have leveraged their positions of power to actively campaign against children of marginalized backgrounds - including their own - fight against their equitable access to educational resources.

The timing of Laurent’s and Imig’s assault on diversity and inclusion pol-

icy within the Rockwood School District couldn’t have been worse for the district - but maybe that’s what these two women have wanted all along. By the time Laurent and Imig led the charge to tank Rockwood’s educational equity and diversity program in October 2022, the program’s former director, Brittany Hogan, had already initiated a racial discrimination complaint against the Rockwood School District, and she received her “right to sue” letter last November.

Hogan left Rockwood in April 2021, following a series of events where Hogan experienced extreme racial hatred and received very little support or protection from the school. From targeted online harassment from a group of racist parents to being physically prevented from visiting one school because of - yet againracist parents, Hogan’s lawsuit presents a frightening glimpse into the future of public schools that our state Republicans want.

The Rockwood administration is accused of ignoring threats to Hogan’s and

other Black employees’ safety, including emails that referenced lynching, intimidating social media posts, and “disturbing” voicemails. Hogan ultimately resigned, citing the district’s failure to protect her from the racist threats and violence caused by some white parents.

According to Missouri court records, the case has been stalled for four months, possibly indicating out-of-court settlement discussions. Setting aside the allegations of Hogan’s lawsuit, let’s go ahead and acknowledge that we all witnessed the horrible, racist abuse that she experienced and other people of color who were employed by or attended schools in the Rockwood, Francis Howell, and Springfield public school districts. The racist parents who caused such an uproar wanted to be recognized by the media. We know what happened, and we also remember the school districts taking very little action to protect their staff and students from racist vitriol at the time. Let us not be so quick to forget the viral moment

that culminated during a May 2021 Rockwood school board meeting, when a white West County woman cried, “Just because I do not want critical race theory taught to my children in school, does not make me a racist, damnit!” Actually, it does. As a matter of fact, these efforts to ban CRT ignore the reality that while it is about honest history, there is little evidence it is being taught in K-12 classrooms. We applaud the students at Eureka High School, who started their own mental and emotional health support group after the Rockwood Board of Education voted to defund inclusion programs like the school’s (former) support group. While children should not have to create their own supportive services within the education system, the EYE admires the difficult, anti-racist work that these children are doing to counter the misguided and hurtful bullying actions politically motivated by some of their elders.

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‘Taking Care of You’

COVID-19: Act II

St. Louis actor sidelined by late-summer surge

COVID-19 pulled the curtain on St. Louis native Sieglinda Fox while she was performing in the musical “Hair” in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. She advises “don’t be too quick to put those masks away.”

By Sylvester Brown Jr.

St. Louis American

“Conceived, conceived like we all was in liberty, and dedicated to the one I love I mean dedicated to the proposition that all men, honey, I tell you all men Are created equal…”

Sieglinda (pronounced Sa-Glinda) Fox could barely get through the high-energy song, “Abie Baby” from the musical “Hair.”

About two weeks ago, Fox, a St.

Louis-born actress, felt extremely fatigued on the day of the show. She’s currently performing with the Seacoast Repertory Theatre in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Dressed as Abraham Lincoln, Fox soldiered on finishing the song, her performance and the play that night.

The next day she received an email saying rehearsals were canceled. Several cast members had tested positive for COVID-19. Fox was among that unfortunate group.

She was in denial until the email arrived. Fox had contracted the virus

in 2021 a bit more than a month after receiving two rounds of COVID vaccinations. Contracting the virus increased her fears that maybe she made a bad career choice.

“Oh, Lord, I done just quit my job,” Fox said, referring to how, two years earlier, in 2019, she quit her job of 20 years with the IRS to pursue acting full-time.

Fox is now busy traveling the country performing in “Hair,” and other plays including, “A Raisin in

For your health

Key cancer screenings for men and women

By Dr. Graham A. Colditz Siteman Cancer Center

As we begin our annual move toward fall and more normal routines of work, school, and family, it can be a great time to make sure that all of us are up to date with our recommended cancer screening tests.

There’s no better reminder of this than the upcoming Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October. The pink ribbons we see on websites, cereal boxes and t-shirts symbolize the importance of breast cancer and of cancer screenings. One out of four cancers diagnosed in women is breast cancer, so take the step now to get breast cancer screenings scheduled. And while October focuses on mammograms for breast cancer, this translates just as well to other key tests for colon, lung, cervical and prostate cancers. Screening tests not only help find cancers earlier when they’re more treatable, but some can also help prevent certain cancers from developing in the first place. Below are general recommendations for five cancers – four apply to women, three to men.

n Screening tests not only help find cancers earlier when they’re more treatable, but some can also help prevent certain cancers from developing in the first place.

People with a family history of cancer may need to begin screening at earlier ages than most. So, it’s important for younger adults to talk to their providers about their risk of cancer and when it’s best for them to start getting screened.

Breast Cancer (Begin at age 40) While there are still some minor differences in the breast cancer screening recommendations from individual

Eviction is an African American health issue

Can lead to physical, mental illnesses

By Alexa Spencer Word in Black

When Mayor Tishaura O. Jones signed Board Bill 59 in July, which created a Right to Counsel program, renters gained access to legal service providers which could help them avoid eviction.

The bill could also spare St. Louisans from mental and physical ailments brought on by dealing with evictions – especially for expectant mothers and children. Jones said the action displayed “the city of St. Louis’ commitment to pro-

n Loss of housing is connected to preterm and lowweight births, and infant mortality.

tecting renters while preventing families from ending up out on the street.”

Eviction is incredibly destabilizing. For children, it’s an inescapable tossing and turning. It creates a feeling of mourning that can morph into years of mental and emotional suffering if untreated.

See EVICTION, A15

Photo courtesy of Sieglinda Fox

See COVID, A15

See COLDITZ, A15

Photo by Brian Munoz / St. Louis Public Radio

6th Ward Alderwoman Christine Ingrassia (left) spoke on behalf of a bill she sponsored in February that would protect renters’ rights and help them avoid eviction. Mayor Tishaura O. Jones signed Board Bill 59 in July, making it a St. Louis statute.

Dr. Graham A. Colditz

‘Taking Care of You’

Eviction

Continued from A14

That’s why researchers like Bruce Ramphal, a Harvard University Medical School student, are digging deeper into its long-term effects on children.

A Bronx native, he grew up witnessing his neighbors being put out of their homes while his family lived on the edge of housing loss.

“There are so many elements of eviction, from the leading up to it, the possibility of court cases, the police contact, the frank dehumanization of Black people often [by] white

Continued from A14

the Sun” by Lorraine Hansberry, “Ain’t Misbehavin’,” the politically-charged musical “Don’t Bother Me I Can’t Cope,” and James Balwin’s “Amen Corner.”

Her bout with the virus in 2021 wasn’t too bad, she said. She and her husband quarantined themselves until their relatively-mild symptoms resided.

Still, Fox had to weather shutdowns which included live theater. She managed to survive those work-less months with an at-home sales job. Like millions of others, Fox welcomed what seemed like a huge decrease in COVID-19 infections, hospitalizations and deaths. Last year, she was delighted to return to her beloved environment-the stage. The crowds were back too, and COVID, she thought, was a bygone epidemic.

In May, the federal government allowed the coronavirus national emergency declaration to expire. Most Americans had adopted the feeling that the nation had moved beyond COVID. But a late-summer wave of infections has been a rude awakening for those, like Fox, who had no idea the disease was on the rise… again.

According to Mati Hlatshwayo Davis, director of health for the City of St. Louis, hospital admissions between Aug. 12 and 29 increased 21% nationwide. There were 207 cases reported in the city which was up 39% within that early-to-late August time frame.

“That was relatively low compared to historical peaks but the sharp upward trend is cause for concern as we move from summer to fall,” Hlatshwayo Davis added.

Last week, KSDK News reported there were 33 to 174 reported cases in St. Louis County. Public health officials say the increase in hospitalizations

Colditz

Continued from A14 organizations, most are now unifying behind women starting mammograms at age 40 and getting them regularly every year or every other year.

Cervical Cancer (Begin at age 25)

Screening for cervical cancer helps to both find cancer early, and to help prevent the disease by finding and treating pre-cancers. The American Cancer Society recom-

people with power over your basic human rights,” Ramphal says.

“All of that stuff is, I imagine, traumatic.”

Michael A. Lindsey, dean of New York University’s Silver School of Social Work, says trauma is the first thing that comes to mind when he thinks about eviction.

He says in children, who sometimes struggle to verbalize their mental illness, it could manifest in a number of ways.

“Trauma rests in the family of anxiety,” Lindsey says. “And so, think about all the physiological consequences of that experience. It will be trouble eating. Or maybe overeating to cope.”

The trauma may also show up as a “volatile” type of anger, depression, or shame.

“They’re going to experience the trauma and the effects of it based on having their peers or neighbors see that they’re evicted or the constant questions about ‘what’s going on with your family situation,’” Lindsey says.

Ramphal considers eviction as “disruptive to childhood development.”

“You’re not going to school right after you get evicted, probably,” he says. “You’re immediately homeless.”

Students who are unhoused are known to experience delays in developing literacy skills

display lower school achievement, and are more likely to be chronically absent or drop out of school.

Eviction also exacerbates poor birth outcomes for pregnant women and babies.

According to a recent study by Ramphal and a team of researchers, loss of housing is connected to preterm and low-weight births, and infant mortality.

Systemic racism traps Black caregivers and their dependents in cycles of housing insecurity.

According to a 2020 study by the ACLU, Black women renters face eviction at double the rate of white renters. When

they’re the sole caregivers of children, their kids become homeless, too.

Nearly 20% of children born to Black mothers experience eviction, compared to 11% of white children, according to a 2020 study by the Urban Institute.

Leah Goodridge, managing attorney for housing policy at Mobilization for Justice, says racist policies are pushing Black mothers and their children out.

“There have been a lot of cases in that regard of where someone is being evicted, and the legal reason is a nuisance, but it’s very racially coded,” she says.

For example, an eviction might be filed for

children running around the home — or even due to domestic violence.

“There are a lot of states that still have laws where if you are a DV victim and you call the police three times or more, they will actually force your landlord to evict you under the guise of nuisance,” Goodridge says. She says the nuisance ordinances are disproportionately affecting Black women.

“These are instances where people are asking for help, and in response, they are punished.”

Alvin A. Reid of the St. Louis American contributed to this report

has been relatively small and most of the sick are experiencing symptoms comparable to a cold or the flu.

The variant, known as “EG.5,” according to the CDC, is an offshoot of the Omicron variant and has been found in 51 countries, with the second largest number of cases being here in the U.S.

“The clear message here is that COVID never went anywhere; this virus is here to stay,” Davis warned, adding: “Will it be something like the flu, will it be something that ebbs and flows throughout the year? That remains to be seen. Omicron is still the most common variant but there are several sub variants like this new EG.5.”

In an interview with KMOV News Sunday, infectious disease physician, Dr. Steven Lawrence said the virus is just as

mends that most women begin screening at age 25 with an HPV (human papillomavirus) test every five years. Nearly all cervical cancers are caused by HPV infections. If an HPV test by itself isn’t available, an HPV test plus Pap test every 5 years is recommended, or a Pap test by itself every 3 years.

Colon Cancer (Begin at age 45)

Colon cancer screening is another that can help prevent cancer – as well as help find disease in earlier, more treatable stages. Most people should start

contagious as it was during the peak of the pandemic.

“Any sort of cold-type symptoms really should prompt one to think you may have COVID and it’s something that should be tested,” Dr. Lawrence said. If you do test positive, the doctor added that the current guidelines include quarantining for five days since the first symptoms appeared and then wearing a mask for five days after.

ic started,” he said, adding: “So at this point, there’s not yet any real concern about a serious increase in the number of severe illnesses.”

n The variant, known as “EG.5,” according to the CDC, is an offshoot of the Omicron variant and has been found in 51 countries, with the second largest number of cases being here in the US.

Dr. Lawrence cautioned against mass hysteria.

“We’re talking about a slight bump up from what had been the lowest level since the COVID pandem-

screening at age 45, and there are several different tests to choose from. Colonoscopy is the most common test and usually only needs to be done every ten years. Home stool tests, such as a fecal immunochemical test (FIT) and stool DNA test, are quicker and easier than colonoscopy but need to be done more often.

Lung Cancer (Begin at age 50, if history of smoking)

Yearly lung cancer screening is recommended beginning at age 50 for certain people who smoke

Last week, the American reported that the Biden administration is gearing up for a fall vaccination campaign that not only includes updated COVID-19 boosters, but the annual flu shot and the newly-approved RSV vaccine.

Those resources, Hlatshwayo Davis warned, may “dwindle and go away.”

“I just don’t have certainty about how widely available they will be as

or have quit in the last 15 years. It’s important to talk to a healthcare provider to see if you qualify for screening and then to decide if screening is right for you. Currently, screening is only recommended for people who’ve smoked the equivalent of one pack a day for 20 years.

Prostate Cancer (Begin at age 50, or 40 - 45 in Black men and others at higher risk) Most men should talk to a healthcare provider about prostate cancer screening starting at age 50. Black or African American men and

they were last year because of the lack of commitment of congressional dollars.”

Researchers say that because nearly all Americans have built up multiple layers of immunity following repeated infections, immunizations or both, the virus is unlikely to cause as much harm this winter as it did in previous seasons.

News agencies reported Monday that First Lady Jill Biden tested positive for COVID-19. Apparently, now is not the time to take COVID for granted.

Although researchers are cautiously optimistic about the severity of COVID this year, many recommend that people consider wearing masks again in crowded indoor spaces, testing when they have symptoms and being mindful of those around them who may be at high risk should they become

others at high risk because of their family history should have this talk at age 45 and even younger. Compared to other types of cancer screenings, there can be a more subtle balance between the potential benefits and harms of screening for prostate cancer. So, it’s important to discuss the test with a healthcare provider and then decide if it’s right for you.

Cancer screening saves lives. And millions of us missed our regular screenings during the height of the coronavirus pandemic

infected. As for Fox, she’s gotten past her second bout of COVID. Within days, the fatigue, she said, turned into a full-blown case of congestion, body aches and eventual loss of taste and smell. She’s feeling better now and has regained her ability to smell and taste food. Fox retested herself and the results were negative. She’s alarmed at the number of people, like her before getting infected, seem to be oblivious to the virus’ resurgence. She’s noted little to no mask-wearing at her performances or on the streets of Portsmouth. For those people, Fox offers some sage advice: “Don’t be too quick to put those masks away,” she said. “Stay prepared for this because it’s not gone and the way it looks, it’s not going anywhere anytime soon.”

and still need to catch back up. So, make your health a priority and take some time this fall to check with your provider to see if you’re up to date with your tests and schedule any you may need. It’s your health. Take control.

Dr. Graham A. Colditz is an associate director of prevention and control at Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis.

Dr. Mati Hlatshwayo Davis, City of St. Louis health director, says a recent “sharp upward trend” in COVID-19 cases is a reminder the virus never went away and will remain with us.

Photo courtesy of St. Louis Public Radio

World’s Bistro offers international delights

Owner Yvette Carter does it all

Chef and owner of World’s Bistro Yvette Carter in her St. Peters, Missouri location Thursday, Aug. 17.

By Ashley Winters St. Louis American

World’s Bistro has menu items that span the globe, and diners just have to travel to St. Peters to visit Yvette Carter’s restaurant.

Carter had been cooking savory dishes for friends and family for over 30 years when she started an in-home catering business called Anointed Hands. Now, World’s Bistro is bring-

PeoPle on the Move

5 On Your Side KSDK recently named Genell Reynolds as digital audience producer. Reynolds holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism, mass communications/ media studies from Lindenwood University. Reynolds named digital audience producer

Jason Ware named VP of operations

Jason Ware has been named vice president of operations for St. Louis area non-profit Rung for Women. Prior to this position, Ware worked at Rise Community Development Foundation, and seven years at CareSTL in a variety of positions including chief financial officer. He holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Harris-Stowe State University and a master’s degree in business administration and management from Lindenwood University. Among his many awards, Ware has received an Emergent Leader award from 100 Black Men of Metropolitan St. Louis, a distinguished alumni award from Harris-Stowe State University and Student of the Year recognition from the National Association of Black Accountants.

Jennifer Allen named to board

ing fine dining to all who want to enjoy a sit-down meal and her hospitality.

“I’m the cook, the waitress, I’m everything,” she said with a laugh.

World’s Bistro opened at 429 Church Street in July after a year of renovation to a former Italian restaurant at the location.

For breakfast-lovers, a highlight is World’s Bistro red velvet or lemon waffles. If you prefer pancakes, the

Vegan sausage along with grits are available for those who do not eat meat, and a hearty breakfast of cinnamon oatmeal, eggs, toasted sourdough, and smothered potatoes is served daily.

The cold salmon sandwich is almost everyone’s go-to for lunch, said Carter, who prepares it with red salmon, red

See BISTRO, B2 strawberry or blueberry pancakes are “a must-have,” according to the owner.

Biden ‘SAVE’ program saving Black collegiate borrowers

challenge expected

By Ariana Figueroa Missouri Independent

More than 4 million federal student loan borrowers are enrolled in the Biden administration’s new repayment program, according to figures released Tuesday by the Department of Education. With the pause of more than three years on federal student loan repayments coming to an end in October, and the Supreme Court’s summer decision to strike down the White House’s one-time debt relief program, the Department of Education has rolled out several repayment and loan forgiveness programs. One of those initiatives is the Saving on A Valuable Education, or SAVE, plan that, for some borrowers, could result in no monthly payments.

“Our top priority is to support borrowers as they prepare to return to repayment with the tools and resources See SAVE, B2

St. Louis Children’s Choirs recently announced the election of Jennifer Allen to the board of directors. Allen is an alumna of SLCC and considers it one of the greatest experiences of her life. Her expertise areas are community engagement/ planning, facilitation, management, and organizational development. She is the co-director of St. Louis Art Place Initiative, a nonprofit that builds wealth/equity for artists through home ownership. She holds a M.A. in urban planning from UCLA. The St. Louis Children’s Choirs typically serves over 300 singers (ages 6 to 18), from more than 200 schools and 85 zip codes in Missouri and Illinois.

Promotion, board appointment, new hire, award... please submit your People on the Move item (including photo) to kjones@stlamerican.com

Jennifer

Apollo Carey

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American Photo courtesy of UNC

Jason Ware

Fenaba Addo, an associate professor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, says Black students and families are overrepresented in the number of borrowers struggling to repay loans and amount of loans taken out to attend college.

SAVE

Continued from B1

that they need,” Jason Miller, deputy director for management at the Office of Management and Budget, said on a call with reporters Tuesday.

The new income-driven repayment plan calculates payments based on a borrower’s income and family size and forgives balances after a set number of years. The Department of Education has estimated that most borrowers will save about $1,000 per year under the new plan.

Borrowers who are currently in the Revised Pay as You Earn plan, will automatically be enrolled in the SAVE program.

Democrats, such as U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York, are expecting legal challenges.

“While there will be those that will challenge this in court, the administration has carefully crossed the legal t’s and dotted the legal i’s,” Schumer said in a statement following the opening of applications for the SAVE program on Aug. 22.

So far, the states with the highest number of borrowers enrolled in the program are Texas, with 345,800, California with 331,600, Florida with 291,100, New York with 212,800 and Pennsylvania with 170,200.

There are 82,300 borrowers enrolled in Missouri.

James Kvaal, the Under Secretary of Education, said no borrowers will owe payments if they make $15 an hour while

supporting a family, and that borrowers will not see their balances grow due to unpaid interest “as long as they keep up with their payments.”

“We’re not just lowering payments for today’s borrowers, we’re helping entire families and communities, and we’re making paying for college more affordable for millions of future students,” Kvaal said.

Borrowers who have defaulted on their student loans at any point will be able to enroll into the SAVE program through the Fresh Start program, which is a one-time program for those who have defaulted on federal student loan repayment.

Even though the pause on federal student loans is set to end in October, borrowers will still have a year of leniency to begin repayments, but interest will accrue starting this month. The program starts Oct. 1 and will extend until Sept. 30 of next year.

Data shows that Black borrowers have the most to lose should a majority conservative court strike down the policy.

Black borrowers hold a disproportionate share of student loan debt, and many likely were recipients of Pell Grants, federal aid to help lowincome students pay for higher education. Those federal student loan borrowers who received Pell Grants could qualify for up to $20,000 in debt forgiveness under the administration’s plan.

Fenaba Addo, an associate professor of public policy in the Department of Public Policy at the University of North Carolina at Chapel

Hill, with her colleagues has studied the rise in student debt. They have looked at which borrowers have disproportionately accumulated the most debt and are struggling the most with repayments, as well as which borrowers are overly concentrated in the pools of defaulters.

“Time and time again, we see Black borrowers over-represented in both of those groups and really struggling with the current policies and programs in place that reportedly were supposed to be assisting and helping borrowers pay down their debts,” she said.

Addo pointed out some policies in place that were targeted to help lowincome students, such as Pell Grants, “didn’t keep up with inflation over time.”

“The solution has been a debt solution,” she said. “It hasn’t been, let’s figure out how to increase resources, economic resources of households, or how to get people more income. It’s been, ‘let’s figure out a way to saddle them with debt.’”

On average, Black college graduates at the time they leave school owe $7,400 more than their white peers, or $23,400 versus $16,000, according to a study by the Brookings Institution.

But within four years after graduation, due to differences in interest accrual and graduate school borrowing, Black borrowers hold about $53,000 in student loan debt, or nearly twice as much as their white peers, the study found.

Bistro

Continued from B1

onion, and her special seasoning, mixed with mustard and Miracle Whip.

She calls her fish tacos “the real star of the show.” They consist of fried tilapia in a hard corn tortilla shell covered with coleslaw and cocktail sauce. Then, she takes a flour tortilla with tartar sauce spread on both sides and wraps it around the corn shell. For a finishing touch, she sprinkles onions and cilantro on top.

“People are getting the best of both worlds in this taco,” said Carter.

The down-home restaurant welcomes guests in a cozy setting. Chandeliers add just the right amount of ambiance that says classy dining without a high price. The restaurant owner has made the interior sparkle with local artist Dean Shultz’ whimsical murals throughout the restaurant.

But success doesn’t

come without hard work and sacrifice.

Carter has overcome alcohol and drug addiction, an abusive marriage, and was incarcerated for two years. She is battling breast cancer and is receiving treatment. But don’t count the entrepreneur out; she doesn’t plan to stop her work anytime soon.

n “People are getting the best of both worlds in this taco.”

– Yvette Carter

“Failure is not an option,” said the chef.

Carter enrolled at St. Louis Community College-Forest Park in 1999 in the culinary arts program and graduated in 2016. After her youngest daughter graduated in 2020, she decided to sell her house to help fund her dream of opening a restaurant.

In July 2022, Carter was on her way to work as an in-home healthcare chef when she saw a sign in the window of a restaurant that read ‘for rent.’ She said she knew that sign was for her. She called the restaurant owner and expressed interest. The next day the owner told Carter the restaurant was hers.

“And that was that,” said Carter.

Each week Carter offers a European-inspired dinner menu, featuring cuisine from France, Italy, Greece, and Latin countries.

“For some folks, these types of trips are out of their reach— they can only dream about them, so why not bring that culture here,” said Carter. Each week will be something different from a particular country, “That’s the excitement, you won’t know what you’re getting until you order it,” said Carter.

Ashley Winters is a Report for America reporter for the St. Louis American.

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American

Chef and owner Yvette Carter stands outside her restaurant, World’s Bistro, which opened at 429 Church Street in July after a year of renovation to a former Italian restaurant at the location.

n “It was cool hearing from him, knowing he’s still watching and stuff like that.”

– Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders on receiving text from Tom Brady after TCU upset

prEp Football NotEbook

By Earl Austin Jr.

North wind

Crusaders blow past top-ranked 3A power Blair Oaks

Lutheran North made a major statement on the statewide football scene with its 38-30 win over Blair Oaks last Friday night in Mid-Missouri.

Blair Oaks is the defending Class 2 state champion and the Falcons are virtually unbeatable at home in Wardsville, but the young Crusaders made the trip and came away with one of their biggest victories in recent years.

It was Lutheran North’s first victory in four trips to Blair Oaks, which was ranked No. 1 in the Class 3 state rankings. The Crusaders also snapped Blair Oaks’ winning streak at 15 games.

Quarterback Dakarri Hollis passed for 290 yards and a touchdown while rushing for 60 yards to lead North’s offense. Running back Martez Stephenson rushed for 102 yards and a touchdown while Jevon Blackman scored two touchdowns.

The Crusaders, who are currently ranked No. 2 in the Class 4 state rankings, will take on another state champion this week when they visit Francis Howell on Friday night. Francis Howell won the Class 5 state championship last season.

East St. Louis pulled off a big non-conference victory when it defeated nationally-ranked St.

Hazelwood East safety Quinton Kirby (1) and free safety Melvin

try to intercept a pass to St. Mary’s Zane Meyer (6) during second-quarter action Friday, Sept. 1, 2023 at St. Mary’s. The game was cancelled just after the start of the fourth quarter due to gunfire.

Frances of Baltimore (MD) in the feature game of the Gateway Scholars Classic last Saturday at Clyde C. Jordan Stadium.

The Flyers will conclude their rugged three-game non-conference slate with a trip to Humble, Texas to take on Atascocita High.

Top Individual Performances from Week 2

• Senior wide receiver

SportS EyE

With Alvin A. Reid

Ryan Wingo of SLUH had four receptions for 96 yards and two touchdowns and an 85-yard punt return for a TD in the Jr. Billikens’ victory over Timberland.

• Elijah Stevens of Summit rushed for 183 yards on 25 carries and two touchdowns in the Falcons’ 27-21 victory over Marquette.

• Shane Pruitt of Fort Zumwalt North rushed for 137 yards on 16 carries and two touchdowns in the Panthers’ 28-0 victory over North Point.

• Jack Behl of Lafayette completed 15 of 17 passes for 200 yards and four touchdowns in the Lancers’ 56-25 victory over Fox.

• Senior running back Antwan Strong of Althoff rushed for 133 yards on 12 carries and three touchdowns in the Crusaders’ 46-13 victory over Decatur St. Teresa’s.

• Quarterback Tristan Graham of Francis Howell Central completed 11 of 17 passes for 204 yards and three touchdowns in the Spartans’ 31-28 victory over Pacific.

• Carson Lindquist of Kirkwood had 17 solo tackles, four assists and three quarterback sacks in the Pioneers’ 10-7 victory over Pattonville.

• Senior running back Brandon Coleman of

Belleville East rushed for 155 yards and three touchdowns in the Lancers’ 34-14 victory over Pekin.

• Junior quarterback Sam Boydston of Parkway North completed 12 of 15 passes for 194 yards and four touchdowns in the Vikings’ 52-0 victory over McCluer North.

• Dylan Macon of John Burroughs rushed for 130 yards on 11 carries and two touchdowns in the Bombers’ 42-0 victory over Jennings.

What’s On Tap for Week 3

Friday, September 8 CBC at SLUH, 6 p.m. Ladue at Ritenour, 6 p.m. Lutheran North at Francis Howell, 6:30 p.m. Troy at Hannibal, 7 p.m. Eureka at Kirkwood, 7 p.m. Summit at Parkway Central, 7 p.m. Fort Zumwalt West at Hillsboro, 7 p.m. McCluer at Parkway North, 7 p.m. Cardinal Ritter at Duchesne, 7 p.m.

Saturday, September 9 Pattonville at Hazelwood West, noon Lift for Life at John Burroughs, 1 p.m. Westminster at MICDS, 2 p.m. East St. Louis at Humble Atascoctia (TX), 6 p.m. O’Fallon at Lincoln Way Central, 7 p.m.

A life-changing birthday brought my world into perspective

My birthday, Sept. 6, fell on a Wednesday this year. It was on a Wednesday in 1972. I grew up literally and figuratively on the day leading to that 12th birthday.

That day’s events put me on a path to a journalism career that began two years later with the staff of The Beacon, Nipher Junior High School’s monthly newspaper. I’m still traveling that road at 63. The 1972 Summer Olympics were held in Munich, Germany. It was the Olympic Games’ return to Germany since the 1936 Olympics in Berlin, which were used as a propaganda vehicle for dictator Adolph Hitler and his Nazi regime. Four years earlier, the Summer Olympics were held in Mexico City. Many people remember the Black Power fists of sprinters John Carlos and Tommie Smith thrust skyward on the medal stand.

military presence, security officials were to be discreet, unarmed, and in athletic clothing if possible.

The Games began on August 27, 1972. Then, on Sept. 5 Jim McKay’s life and mine changed. McKay was the noted host of ABC’s “Wide World of Sports.”

ABC was carrying the Olympics “via satellite” and McKay was the anchor. That day, a group of Palestinian members of a group called Black September scaled a fence, entered the Olympic Village with stolen keys and took members of the Israeli Olympic team hostage. In the initial confrontation, two Israeli wrestlers and one terrorist were killed.

Black September demanded that 200 Palestinians in Israeli prisons, and a pair of German terrorists in that country, be released.

Three days before those Olympics began, Mexican military personnel opened fire on protesting students on a public square, killing more than 100 people.

The Munich Olympics vowed to have no heavy

school of the 72-73 school year, a seventh grader at Nipher. Our day began in “core,” then we dispersed to our various classes.

Robert Achenbach was my core teacher, and I also had him as a social studies teacher.

This horrifying story was now being broadcast throughout the world live. McKay found himself responsible for delivering the news to America. An estimated 1 billion people were watching it worldwide.

I was in my first day of

There was a TV in his room. I made a point to stop there between classes.

As the school day ended, negotiations had led to the hostages being taken by terrorists to buses, and then to helicopters. All were flown to nearby

Furstenfeldbruck Air Base.

I invite you to read that fact-based account of the hostage crisis from its beginning in the Olympic Village to the tragic ending at the air base at Britannica.com/Munich massacre.

The remaining Israeli hostages were murdered. A hand grenade was thrown into a helicopter killing six hostages who were bound together. The remaining five in a second helicopter were killed by terrorist machine gun fire.

There was a plan to rescue the hostages with police staff acting as a flight crew on an awaiting Lufthansa jet. It never came to fruition. It was 3 a.m. Sept. 6, 1972, in Germany and 8 p.m. Sept. 5 in Kirkwood, Mo. When McKay told me and millions of other American viewers “They’re all gone.” Avery Brundage, the International Olympic Committee chair who had stripped Carlos and Williams of their medals

in 1968, had mandated the Olympic Games continue during the hostage crisis – even though two Israelis had been killed. After the airport tragedy, the Games were suspended for 24 hours. Then, life went on. McKay would title his autobiography “My Wide World.” I read it cover-to-cover in a day. I knew at 12 I wanted to tell the world important stories – and I still do.

The Reid Roundup

When Deion Sanders was crowing during his postgame press conference after Colorado’s shocking 45-42 upset over 17th ranked TCU, he was talking to me. I was a doubter. Sanders said his team is for real. I thought the Buffalos were going to leave the stadium with their horns between their tails. Sanders was right, I was wrong – for at least a week…I sold Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders short, and gave too little respect to two-way player Travis Hunter, who provided a key interception and more than 100 yards receiving during 65 plays in the searing heat.

Earl Austin Jr.

Alvin A. Reid

A stamp issued by the U.S. Postal Service serves as a memory of the lives lost during the 1972 Olympic Games in Munich, Germany.

Sledge (5)

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American

Thomas recognized for exemplary volunteer service

United Way of Greater St. Louis honored Larry Thomas, longtime United Way board member and retired partner for Edward Jones with the FreemanKortkamp award. The Freeman-Kortkamp award was created to honor the outstanding service and performance of a United Way of Greater St. Louis board member who makes the community a better place to live, work and thrive.

Thomas has supported United Way in various ways for 24 years, lending his time and resources to several volunteer and committee roles. His longstanding support of United Way has helped in their

efforts to strengthen the communities they serve.

He has served on United Way’s Board of Directors since 1999, finance committee since 2004, executive committee since 2006, and became their board vice

Larry Thomas

chair in 2009. Additionally, Thomas has been a member of United Way’s Alexis de Tocqueville Society, compensation committee, campaign cabinet, planned giving committee, administrative budget committee,

and served as chair of the Charmaine Chapman Society.

“Larry’s commitment to service and being a leader in the United Way community is one of the reasons why United Way is able to make thoughtful, informed decisions on how to build strong and equitable communities where everyone can thrive,” said Michelle Tucker, president and CEO of United Way of Greater St. Louis. The award was first given in 2006 to Robert O. Kortkamp and Frankie M. Freeman, two longstanding United Way volunteers who made an incredible impact on the organization and community.

Local business leaders support Boeing’s proposed $1.8 billion expansion in St. Louis County

Project will provide 500 jobs, create $155 million in revenue

Over 160 business and civic leaders from across the St. Louis metro – all investors of Greater St. Louis, Inc. – have come together to encourage the St. Louis County Council to support The Boeing Company’s competitive expansion project at St. Louis Lambert International Airport.

“In addition to bringing 500 new jobs and $1.8 billion in investment to a distressed area of our metro, the proposal being put before the council would create $155 million in new revenue that could be used for additional

priorities across St. Louis County and would not impact existing county revenue,” the leaders wrote to the council in an August 28 letter.

In addition to the new jobs, investment, and other economic benefits

Boeing’s proposed project would bring to the metro, the letter –signed by 163 leaders from major corporations, small business owners, educational institutions, and nonprofits –highlighted the critical nature of Boeing’s presence in the region. Boeing directly employs

Fontbonne announces

Fontbonne University has announced a new community partnership agreement with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri (BBBSEMO) to provide

$4,000 Community Partnership Scholarships for BBBSEMO students who enroll at Fontbonne University and meet other criteria. The official agreement was signed at

nearly 16,000 people and indirectly impacts more than 34,000 jobs across the metro; spends over $750 million at more than 350 local suppliers; and is a leader in philanthropic work, donating $13 million annually to local charities.

“Boeing’s expansion project will not only bring critical investment and new jobs to our metro, it will also strengthen our advanced manufacturing sector and ensure the competitiveness of Boeing St. Louis for decades to come,” said Jason Hall, Greater St. Louis, Inc. CEO.

new

partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters

Fontbonne on August 29, 2023 and goes into effect for full-time undergraduate students beginning with the 2023-24 academic year.

The partnership between Fontbonne and BBBSEMO

will help provide equitable access to quality education to promising students who are active participants in BBBSEMO and fulfill Fontbonne’s mission of “providing transformative

education and inspiring students to become global citizens who think critically and act ethically to create a more just world.”

BBBSEMO students

and their families also will benefit from financial aid/FAFSA workshops provided by Fontbonne, among other measures.

Food for thought on your next trip to the grocery store.

Every item that winds up in your paper – or plastic – bag wouldn’t make it home if some of your favorite grocery store workers didn’t make it to work by riding Metro.

The more you look around, the more you’ll see. We all need Metro, whether we ride or not.

RIDE ON to grocery store runs

Living It

Keyon’s vibe

Grammy-winning St. Louis native among Music at The Intersection featured artists

By Kenya Vaughn The St. Louis American

Trumpeter Keyon Harrold will be bringing “no place like home” energy when he plays St. Louis when he joins dozens of music’s heavy hitters as part of the roster for Music At The Intersection this weekend at the Grand Center.

Shedrick Mitchell, who also has his own Music At The Intersection set, will be playing keys for the set that features Pharoah Monch & Stout. East St. Louis’ own Charles Haynes will be on drums. Lamar Harris and Scooter Brown are aiding Harrold the horns.

“It’s going to be a St. Louis family affair and it’s going to be good vibes,” Harrold said.

The Grammy Award-winner’s new album Foreverland will be released on the Concord Jazz label in January. But thanks to Music At The Intersection, his hometown will be among the first to see selections from the album performed in concert.

“I’m excited that I get a chance to play that stuff live at home and get the vibe – from real people with real feelings who have known me forever,” Harrold said. “I’m excited to share, and just feel the love – and give the love –and appreciation for the long road that I have been traveling.”

Though a classically trained jazz trumpeter, Harrold’s name has been synonymous with hip hop over the past 20-plus years. He has established himself through his collaborations with some of the biggest names in the genre – Jay Z, Nas and Common to name a few. As a product of “the hip hop gen-

eration,” he’s also excited to be bringing those elements to the stage for his set on Saturday, September 9 from 7 p.m. – 8:15 p.m. under the Big Top.

“It’s the 50th year of hip hop and I am bringing Pharoah Monch with me – who is a legend,” Harrold said. “I am bringing

Stout with me. We are going to merge the worlds – hip hop meets jazz.” Harrold considers it one of his appointed duties as an artist to reflect his influ-

See Music, C8

Master of mayhem returns

Denzel Washington enjoyable despite overall predictability of ‘The Equalizer 3’

By Kenya Vaughn

The St. Louis American

The audiences who piled into theaters to help The Equalizer 3 come close to having the biggest Labor Day weekend box office numbers in cinematic history with $60 million-plus in global ticket sales sat down knowing what to expect out of Denzel Washington’s Robert McCall. Without requiring much from the viewer – well, except for forgiveness as it relates to storyline fortitude and predictability – the premise is as plain as day. He comes. He sees. He kills – and in doing so, he saves the day.

The Equalizer 3 earns extra credit for deviations in the opening scenes from its predecessors and an attempted plot twist, but for the most part it stays true to the franchise’s formula.

In the first two installments of the films begin with Denzel Washington’s Robert McCall doing his best to lead an ordinary, anonymous life. As hard as he tries to quell the urge, the off-the-grid former intelligence officer is triggered into revealing his identity as a killing machine of a certain age who uses murder as his preferred weapon in the fight for peace and justice. By the movie’s end, no bad guy is safe against the homicidal maniac with an imperishable moral compass that makes one exception in that it allows him to act as karma, consequence, and executioner on behalf of those he deems worthy of his protection.

more than

Director Antoine Fuqua sets the third Equalizer apart by flipping the script with the introduction of McCall’s return in The Equalizer 3. Instead of spending a bit of time waiting for him to be activated, fans will instantly wonder how McCall is going to kill his way out of the corner he’s killed himself into – and why. Then the film reverts to its regularly scheduled program.

McCall takes his righteous rampage from Boston to a stunning seaside town in southern Italy. His close encounter with an unsuspecting adversary leaves

A gathering at the intersection

Fans of STL Comedian to converge at festival

Sylvester Brown Jr.

The St. Louis American

him out of commission. Originally there to recalibrate, he forms an instant and unbreakable bond with the townspeople. When they are targeted by the local mafia, McCall becomes the residents’ one-man army.

Washington’s latest iteration of McCall is an illustration of his unwavering on-screen magnetism – as well as his ability to make the most of the narrative he is given. Aside from a few

See Equalizer, C8

n “Her (B-Phlat) enthusiasm and ability to rally and unite a bunch of people is exactly what the festival is all about.”

In an interview with the St. Louis American in June, comedian Beverly Perkins’ (better known as “B-Phlat”) announced she’d be back in her hometown in September to take part in the 3rd annual “Music at the Intersection” festival. What the comedian didn’t say was that she’d be joined by almost 100 of her nationwide fans who will not only participate in the event but will host a series of fun-filled activities during their visit. They call themselves “B-Cassos.” Local fan and graphic designer Quincy Charles created the group’s logo. Since most of B-Phlat’s fans consider themselves “creatives,” Charles said he came up with a name that was a rift on the artist Picasso’s name with a twist. Charles replaced the first letter “P” with a “B” as a homage to the comedian. Charles said once the comedian’s fans found out she was involved with the music festival they decided to seize the opportunity to finally meet one another.

- Chris Denman, founder of Mid Coast Media

“We talk with each other through YouTube chats and the like but we rarely see each other physically,” Charles said. “So, it’s a chance for us to get together, enjoy festivities, support the event and just celebrate.”

Music at the Intersection is presented by Kranzberg Arts Foundation in partnership with the Steward Family Foundation and The Regional Arts Commission (RAC) of St. Louis. Chris Denman is the founder of Mid Coast Media. His entertainment-oriented company oversees “partnerships” and books acts for the festival.

Denman said he’s ecstatic that the B-Cassos have been added as a “supporting sponsor” of the festival. He also spoke highly of Perkins’ contributions.

“Her enthusiasm and ability to rally and unite a bunch of people is exactly what the festival is all about,” Denman gushed. “I really look forward to a group coming to town who are really passionate about art, culture and music…it’s kind of a perfect fit.”

See B-Phlat, C3

Photo courtesy of comedian B-Phlat

Comedian B-Phlat

With

$60M in global ticket sales, Denzel Washington’s latest film The Equalizer 3 enjoyed the second biggest Labor Day holiday weekend box office haul in history when it landed in theaters on Friday, September 1.

Photo by Kwafu Alston

St. Louis native Keyon Harrold is among some of the biggest names in music set to play during Music at The Intersection this weekend at Grand Center. Keyon Harrold featuring Pharoah Monch & Stout will play at The Big Top at 7 p.m. on Saturday, September 9.

STL Sites & Sounds

St. Louis American Calendar

Community

Council Special Meeting

9/7/2023, 5:30pm Ferguson City Hall

110 Church Street Ferguson, MO

SLATE’s Find a Job Friday Series

9/8/2023, 10:00am

SLATE Job Center St. Louis, MO Free

Grandparents Day

9/9/2023, 10:00am

Scott Joplin House State Historic Site

2658 Delmar Blvd. St. Louis, MO Free

Walk to End Lupus Now

9/9/2023, 9:00am

Creve Coeur Lake Memorial ParkTremayne Pavilion

13725 Marine Ave

Maryland Heights, MO Free

Family Hours at Up-Down STL

9/10/2023, 10:00am

The Up-Down STL family hours are the first Sunday of each month! The Up-Down STL is opening their doors to those under 21 between 10am and 2pm to give families a place to hang out for an afternoon. This means they will be opening an hour early! The Up-Down STL will be selling pizza by the slice for those who are hungry, as well as soda and other kid-friendly drinks to those under 21 and will be offering a full bar to those over 21. As always, games are 25 cents or one token per play. This event is free to attend and is open to all ages. All minors MUST be accompanied by someone who is 21 or older. At 2pm, anyone over the age of 21 is welcome to stay, but those under 21 must leave at that time. St. Louis, MO Free

SDCC Board Meeting

9/11/2023, 7:00pm

SDCC Office- 6008 Kingsbury Avenue St. Louis, MO

City Council Meeting

9/12/2023, 7:00pm Ferguson City Hall 110 Church Street Ferguson, MO

Historic District Committee

9/13/2023, 6:30pm SDCC Office 6008 Kingsbury Avenue St. Louis, MO

Urban Forestry Commission Meeting - Virtual 9/13/2023, 6:00pm Centennial Commons (Recreation Center) University City, MO

CONCERTS AND LIVE MUSIC

Damons Williams - Still Funny AF! (Comedy) 9/7/2023, 8:00pm City Winery

St. Louis 3730 Foundry Way, Suite 158 St. Louis, MO $22.00 - $25.00

Animated 9/7/2023

COCA 524 Trinity Ave St. Louis, MO

Music at the Intersection Intersessions Conference 9/7 - 9/8, 2023

For more information go to musicattheintersection.org

The Townsendx3 Agency & Angel Present Shanelle Riana 9/8/2023, 8:00pm City Winery St. Louis 3730 Foundry Way, Suite 158 St. Louis, MO $25.00 - $28.00

Lafayette Square Summer Concerts

9/9/2023, 6:00pm Lafayette Square Park St. Louis, MO Free

Music at The Intersection 9/9 - 9/10, 2023

For more information go to musicattheintersection.org

Voices of Jubilation, an UMSL Community Gospel Choir

9/12/2023, 7:00pm

Blanche M. Touhill Performing Arts Center, Whitaker Room One University Blvd St. Louis, MO $10.00 - $30.00

Joy Oladokun: Living Proof Tour

9/13/2023 8:00pm Joy Oladokun has partnered with PLUS1 so that $1 per ticket will go towards supporting gun violence prevention initiatives. General Admission Event. All Ages Allowed. Please note: All tickets carry fees. Tickets purchased in person at The Pageant Box Office with cash will be discounted to face value. Mobile tickets will be available starting 72 hours prior to

Monáe 9/13/2023, 8:00pm • Stifel Theatre

event time, Ticketmaster will email you a reminder about your tickets once they become available.

Delmar Hall 6133 Delmar Blvd St. Louis, MO

$26.00

Janelle Monáe

9/13/2023, 8:00pm • Stifel Theatre 1400 Market Street • St. Louis, MO

$48.50 - $88.50

Noah Kahan: The Stick Season Tour 9/13/2023 8:00pm Saint Louis Music Park 750 Casino Center Dr Maryland Heights, MO

$40.50 - $80.50

FAIRS, FESTIVALS AND MARKETS

Sauce Magazine Food Truck Friday 9/8/2023, 4:00pm Join Sauce Magazine’s Food Truck Friday all summer long in Tower Grove Park at the West End & Gurney Picnic sites. More than 20 trucks park will be part of one of the most beloved outdoor food events in St. Louis. For more information, visit saucefoodtruckfriday.com

Tower Grove Park 4257 Northeast Drive St. Louis, MO

Tower Grove Farmers’ Market 9/9/2023, 8:00am Tower Grove Park 4257 Northeast Drive St. Louis, MO

Tower Grove Farmers’ Market 9/12/2023, 4:00pm Tower Grove Park

ART ACTIVITIES, EXHIBITS AND MUSEUMS

Art Speaks: Class in Session! 9/7/2023

Join Romare Bearden Graduate Museum Fellow Charlie Farrell as she discusses artists Augusta Savage and Margaret Burroughs and their roles as educators. Both working during their respective Renaissances \(Harlem and Chicago\), Savage and Burroughs felt it important to foster the creative development of young people in their community. Farrell will discuss their individual practices in addition to their reverberating impact on their communities. Participants will receive Zoom information after registering. This event will have automated closed captions. A recording of the program may be posted on the Museum’s YouTube channel and at slam.org at a later dat Saint Louis Art Museum One Fine Arts Drive, St. Louis, MO Free

Convergence: Creative Play & Storytime

9/9/2023, 10:00pm

Youth, ages 5-9, with their grownup, are invited to join us for drop-in story time and fun, hands-on activities. Join us this week to delve into some amazing books and explore our creativity through art. Join us on select Saturdays, 10-11:30 am, for storytime & creative play. Explore the exhibit through a youth tour and storytime! Kiddos ages 5-9 enjoy the opportunity to create their own project similar to the work in the exhibition.

Craft Alliance

5080 Delmar Blvd St. Louis, MO Free

Educator Open House for “The Culture: Hip Hop in Contemporary Art” 9/9/2023

This Open House is designed for teachers to learn about the exhibition The Culture: Hip Hop and Contemporary Art in the 21st Century and discover programs, opportunities, and resources for connecting students with the exhibition and the

broader canon of hip hop and contemporary art. The Open House will include visits to the exhibition, art-making activities, talks, performances, and hands-on opportunities led by local artists, organizations, and students.

Saint Louis Art Museum

One Fine Arts Drive St. Louis, MO

Artist Talk: Hajra Waheed 9/9/2023, 1:00pm Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis 3750 Washington Blvd St. Louis, MO Free

Family Sunday-Remix 9/10/2023

You’re invited to the Museum every Sunday for hands-on art activities and special interactive components for kids within the galleries. Each week’s activities focus on a different, family-friendly theme. Join us for an art activity inspired by The Culture: Hip Hop and Contemporary Art in the 21st Century that involves sound! Saint Louis Story Stitchers Artists Collective, beat-making workshop GARAGE LAB, SCULPTURE HALL 2-4 PM Learn the basics of composing your own beat.

Saint Louis Art Museum

One Fine Arts Drive St. Louis, MO Free

SUNDAY TOUR / Trees: Deep in the Woods 9/10/2023, 11:00am

Spend the morning surrounded by nature for a late summer hike! Learn about several types of tree species that shade Laumeier’s Art Hike Trail with local arborist Michael Garrett, Director of Horticulture. FREE, reservation required RSVP.

Laumeier Sculpture Park 12580 Rott Road, St. Louis, MO

Young Friends Cocktails and Tour of The Culture 9/12/2023 Young Friends events are available exclusively to Young Friends Members. Join today . Join us for an evening in The Culture: Hip Hop and Contemporary Art in the 21st Century . Bring a guest and enjoy delightful conversation, light hors d’oeuvres and cocktails, and a docent-led tour through the exhibition. This event is complimentary for two RSVPs to all Young Friends Members and includes Museum garage parking.

Saint Louis Art Museum

One Fine Arts Drive St. Louis, MO

OUTDOORS ACTIVITIES

Beginner Bird Walk - Adult 9/10/2023, 8:30am Tower Grove Park 4257 Northeast Drive St. Louis, MO

U City Parks 100Bike the Parks Event 9/10/2023, 1:00pm Centennial Commons (Recreation Center) University City, MO 9/10/2023 1:00pm

TALKS & LECTURES

Lecture Series: St. Louis LGBTQ Historian, Steven Brawley 9/10/2023, 2:00pm Steven Louis Brawley is a public historian noted for his research related to LGBTQIA\+ and pop culture topics. He is the founder of the St. Louis LGBT History Project and Executive Vice President of Area Resources for Community and Human Services \ (ARCHS\). He is also the author of Gay and Lesbian St. Louis and a frequent lecturer at educational institutions Tower Grove Park 4257 Northeast Drive St. Louis, MO

Janelle

The festival has a special emphasis on art and culture. “Mural Market” off Washington Avenue will be home to local and visiting artisan vendors, as well as a live, “immersive street art” activation. Denman described a recently completed mural in the artistic area that honors 50 years of hiphop. The mural will overlook the area where the B-Cassos and other vendor tents will be set up.

“It’s all about women MCs,” Denman said. “I think it (the mural) will serve as the perfect backdrop for a woman-led group of folks coming into town.”

Denman’s company produces the “Two Funny Mamas with Sherri Shepherd & Kym Whitley” podcast. He met B-Phlat as a guest on that show and later produced her DIY (do it yourself) podcast, “Tight’N Up Tuesdaze.” Part of the reason her fan’s are gathering is to celebrate the 100th episode of the podcast.

The idea to involve the B-Cassos with this year’s festival, B-Phlat explained, stemmed from a conversation she had with Denman last year.

“He talked about needing more, good, reliable volunteers, so I recruited some of my Soros to help out,” she explained, adding: “With this being the 100th episode of my show, I thought it was another good reason to gather my fans here in St. Louis.”

Makesha Harris Lee, PhD, a professor at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville became a “B-Casso” during the pandemic.

“Everybody was at home watching YouTube and podcasts,” Harris Lee explained. “Sherri

“We’re like a social media-type community so our main thing was bringing the group together for some in-person unity,” she explained. “We’re advocating for the music festival and promoting the individual talents of the B-Cassos, but there’s also a charity component as well.”

The group will raffle

Mark Meriwether, who serves as B-Phlat’s road manager, also works in the food and beverage industry. He said he volunteered “to do whatever” once he heard about the gathering of the comedian’s fanbase. This will be his first time attending the weekend music and arts event.

Meriwether said he’s equally excited about his

n “With this being the 100th episode of my

- B-Phlat

off a painting created at the festival, a greenhouse and other creative merchandise. A portion of their sales from the festival will be donated to one of B-Phlat’s favorite nonprofits, Horizons St. Louis in Kirkwood.

Although the festival is

comrade’s visit and their intentions while visiting our city.

“We B-Cassos plan to descend on St. Louis, show our creative sides and just have fun.”

Photo courtesy of comedian B-Phlat

Local “B-Cassos’ (left to right) Mark Meriwether, Makesha Harris Lee, PhD and Quincy Charles.

By Ashley Winters

The St. Louis American

Local nonprofit St. Louis Reconciliation Network is focused on helping heal strained race relations through harnessing the collective power of its diverse communities of faith.

Ohio native Bradon Wilkes, the network’s executive director, is leading and coaching faithbased communities through discussions about integrating racial unity into churches’ dialogue.

The network held its inaugural Race to Reconciliation 5K Labor Day Weekend on a course that began and ended at Benton Park. The goal of the race was to bring all faith communities together to show solidarity in the community.

“This city is about building unity not just the racial divide, and the faithbased organizations are leading the charge,” said Wilkes.

the Ferguson Uprising.

Religion

He came by way of Cincinnati and the One Church congregation. He and five other families moved to St. Louis with a plan to start a congregation here that focused on intentionally creating a multi-racial and ethnic church.

Wikes had unfortunately heard about the infamous Delmar Divide and the systemic racial practices that plague the region.

Five other families moved here to work on bringing people together through a common goal— teaching the love for one another from the lens of Christianity.

- Brandon Wilkes

At the height of the pandemic and peak racial tensions, Wilkes took intentional steps to make an impact through his faith and his community.

The St. Louis Reconciliation Network started in 2012, the goal of the network is to address the racial division that impacted our region, particularly in faith-based organizations. In the spring of 2014, Wilkes made his way to St. Louis just a few months before the killing of Mike Brown and

13 years before the killing of Mike Brown and the Ferguson Uprising a similar situation happened in Cincinnati where an unarmed Black man, Timothy Thomas, was killed by a Cincinnati police officer. Wilkes explained soon after the metropolitan city also experienced an uprising.

“When everything happened here in August 2014 it was like Deja vu, I’ve seen this before,” said Wilkes.

To help repair the impact of decades of racial, social, and economic St. Louis Reconciliation Network has partnered with One Family Church, Woodlawn Presbyterian Church, Gateway Christian Fellowship Church, and the Archdiocese.

The network has trained and

coached a half dozen classes per year over the last five years. According to Wilkes, many churches aren’t aware or just aren’t educated on what needs to happen surrounding racial unity.

“We go wherever we are invited,” said the executive director.

The enthusiastic pastor went on to say that even in a place where the common goal is to love God and one another people will be people and the church is filled with broken people who need to relearn and understand that loving everyone means just that everyone. He took it a step further paraphrasing scripture on how we should even love our

enemy. When he began doing the work in the spring of 2014, he reached out to pastoral leaders who understood the racial fractures here. Some were passive about lending help, Wilkes said, because they had been down the road that he was eager to travel.

He explained they were trying to help him avoid failure and frustration–but he received their advice with respect knowing they knew St. Louis better than him. However, Wilkes knew there was still room for adjustments and change.

From his perspective because of the sin of slavery and racism the church has been segregated

just like society, as a pastor he feels it is his responsibility to teach the whole bible and racism is a part of that.

Wilkes puts it in the perspective of the Jews and Gentiles, or other priests, and spiritual leaders from other parts of the world, including Rome, Nigeria, and Northern Africa.

“If we can get it right in the church then there is hope that we can get it right outside the church,” said Wilkes.

Ashley Winters is a Report for America reporter for the St. Louis American.

• Certified event planner recognized for seamless organizing and spotting even the smallest details

• Highly experienced consulting services cover countless details including: table arrangements, seating charts, budgeting, etiquette, logistics, crisis management, and so much more!

• Creates a “day of” master timeline to ensure the seamless flow of each special moment

• Presents premium preferred vendor list while coordinating and overseeing communication flow

• Day of coordination specializes in overseeing details others often miss

• Managing a productive rehearsal ceremony and

Photo courtesy of Reconciliation Network

Bradon Wilkes, St. Louis Reconciliation Network executive director, says the organization’s mission is to address the racial division pervasive in the metropolitan area.

CHIEF ENGAGEMENT & BELONGING OFFICER

Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri is recruiting for an exceptional and inclusive leader to serve as the Chief Engagement & Belonging Officer. The CEBO will support the mission of the GSEM Council by working with the CEO and other key stakeholders to promote a strong sense of belonging for all. Apply at https:// www.girlscoutsem.org/en/ discover/our-council/careers. html. We are a proud Equal Opportunity Employer, and we encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.

CHIEF FINANCIAL ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER

Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri is recruiting for a Chief Financial Administrative Officer to join our talented team. The CFAO provides overall financial leadership and direction to the organization and is responsible for providing effective stewardship, control, and oversight of GSEM’s finances. Apply at https:// www.girlscoutsem.org/en/ discover/our-council/careers. html. We are a proud Equal Opportunity Employer, and we encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.

UNITED STATES PROBATION OFFICER CAREER OPPORTUNITY #2023-16ILSP

Location: East St. Louis or Benton, Illinois Closing Date: September 8, 2023

The United States Probation Office for the Southern District of Illinois has a full-time vacancy for a United States Probation Officer. Please visit the U.S. Probation and Pretrial Services Office website at http://www.ilsp.uscourts. gov and access the Human Resources tab for complete details of the position announcement and how to apply.

SLDC IS EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

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

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

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

PART TIME CHRISTIAN MUSICIAN

Bible Way Baptist Church, would like to hire a part time Christian musician to play the

LEGAL COUNSEL (CLERK’S OFFICE –21ST CIRCUIT)

The St. Louis County Circuit Clerk’s Office (21st Circuit) is seeking a professional individual to provide legal research, analysis, technical support, representation in hearings, and interpretation of law to Judges, Commissioners, Circuit Clerks, or other administrators, in one of the largest judicial circuits within the Missouri State Court System. Work involves the performance of a variety of legal services and technical research duties in facilitating the smooth operation of a large circuit court or division thereof. Work includes preparation of memoranda or orders for Judges or Commissioners concerning cases before them or review of court procedures, rules, or statutes for a Circuit Clerk or other administrator. Work is performed under the general supervision of a Judge, Commissioner, Circuit Clerk or administrator and is reviewed through conferences and written reports. Note: All selected individuals will be required to submit to a background check. To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume, Attention: Human Resources (Legal Counsel), Circuit Court of St. Louis County, 105 S. Central Avenue, Clayton, MO 63105 or apply online at: https://mocareers.mo.gov/hiretrue/mo/osca/index.html. EOE. Please contact the Human Resources Department at 314-615-4471 (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 format

Manager Patient Accounts

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

To see the full job description of positions available and to apply online go to: http://www.stlouis-mo.gov/sldc/ and click on “Careers at SLDC.” SLDC is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity.

Position manages account posting and/or receivable and collection activities of department to maximize income from services rendered. Provides reporting on accounts reimbursement and/or accounts receivable activity, income budget forecasting and implements service orientation for patient accounts office. Required qualifications include: Equivalent of Bachelor’s degree in related field with five or more years of experience in supervision. To apply, visit: Join WashU! (myworkdayjobs.com)

JR76711 Research Lab Supervisor - Neurology

Dr. Randall Bateman seeks a Research Lab Supervisor to oversee the Bateman Lab and SILQ Center’s lab and staff. Dr. Bateman’s laboratory focuses on the causes, diagnosis and future treatments of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and directly measures the pathology and pathophysiology of AD in humans using multiple techniques. The lab discovered and developed the first blood tests for Alzheimer’s disease now being used in the clinic and is helping to develop the next generation of treatments for AD by measuring the effects on the biology of the disease. This position encompasses multiple supervisory responsibilities including oversight of laboratory personnel, research projects, equipment and laboratory processes.

JR76589 Senior Manager Medical Education Programs - Orthopedic Surgery Manages department’s educational activities in conjunction with department administrative leadership, Program Director and/or Vice Chair for Education to advance the department’s strategic goals regarding clinical and scientific education. Provides oversight, training and education of administrative team which may include managers, residency /fellowship coordinators, assistants, etc. Ensures departmental coordination with institutional resources/stakeholders (GME Office, DBBS, etc.). Participates in professional education societies, identifies trends in educational programming and provides subject matter expertise to leadership.

JR76354 Privacy Compliance Educator - Faculty Practice Plan

The position is responsible for the development and implementation of a compliance education program which fosters privacy awareness and compliance with applicable regulations, standards and policies. Position also facilitates privacy incident reporting and investigation and assists in the prevention of breaches. Oversees, develops and delivers initial and ongoing privacy education and training to the workforce. Facilitates and promotes activities to foster privacy awareness and compliance. Provides compliance advice and guidance to all departments on privacy matters to ensure compliance with applicable regulations, standards and policies. Manages privacy incident reporting, response, mitigation and investigation processes; prevents breaches of protected health information.

JR76286 Director of Business Operations (Finance) - Pediatric Central Administration Position is responsible for managing and directing the financial affairs of all financial and system support activities within the Department of Pediatrics including management of accounting and finance personnel. Also oversees payroll operations. Prepares, creates, coordinates and prioritizes financial operations for the entire Department operating budget. Oversees the process for annual budget preparation as well as monthly and quarterly financial reporting. Compiles annual Operating and Maintenance Expense Report. Develops standard practices and procedures for finance.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

PARIC Corporation is requesting proposals for the following workpackages on Missouri University of Science and Technology’s new Protoplex Research Facility located in Rolla, Missouri. The scope of work we are seeking proposals for include Early Release Electrical Equipment, Site utilities, Foundation Package, Steel Mill Order Package. You can find additional design guidelines on UM system website here: https://www.umsystem.edu/ums/fa/ facilities/guidelines/ (Click on Section 3 Design Guidelines and then click on Division Guidelines hyperlink). If you have questions or would like further information on this project, please contact Chris Lucas (clucas@paric.com<mailto:clucas@ paric.com>) at 816-534-4678.

Construction is slated to start October 2023 and be substantially complete by June 18, 2025.

Bids are due 10-6-23 at 10:00am

PreBid meeting will be held on 9-15-23 at 10:00am

The project is tax exempt, and has MBE and WBE goals according to the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of 11.4% Minority participation and 6.9% Female participation in each trade. Structural Steel will be subject to the Build America, Buy America Act.

The Project will be subject to prevailing wages per Missouri Division of Labor Standards Annual Wage Order for Phelps County.

All bids should be delivered to Paric via e-mail (bids@paric.com<mailto:bids@paric.com>) or fax (636-561-9501).

PARIC CORPORATION IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

A public hearing will be held at 5:45 p.m., September 21, 2023, at the City of St. Louis Mental Health Board of Trustees, 701 Market Street, 15th Floor Conference Room, St. Louis, Missouri, 63101, and via a virtual Zoom call accessible at www.stlmhb.org, at which time citizens may be heard on the property tax rates proposed to be fixed for the current year for the Community Mental Health Fund and the Community Children’s Services Fund, by the City of St. Louis Mental Health Board. The tax rate shall be fixed to produce revenues which the budgets for each fund show to be required from the property tax for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2023. For the Community Mental Health Fund, a rate of $0.09 on each $100 assessed property value was authorized by the vote of the people on November 3, 1992. For the Community Children’s Services Fund a rate of $0.19 on each $100 assessed property value was authorized by the vote of the people on November 2, 2004. For the Community Children’s Services Fund an increase to a rate of $0.2443 on each $100 assessed property value was authorized by the vote of the people on November 3, 2020. The maximum tax rate permitted by Article X, Section 22 of the Missouri Constitution and Section 137.073 R.S.Mo for the Community Mental Health Fund is $0.0875, and for the Community Children’s Services Fund is $0.2407. These amounts, plus an additional amount which may be approved by the Missouri State Auditor’s office as provided by Sec. 137.073(2)(a) and (b) R.S.Mo are proposed to be adopted.

ASSESSED VALUE

(by categories)

Current Tax Year 2023 Real Estate

$4,078,017,728

Personal Property

$1,270,417,772

TOTAL $5,348,435,500

Prior Tax Year 2022 Real Estate

$3,679,386,001

Personal Property

$1,161,226,894

TOTAL

$4,840,612,895

The total adjusted current year assessed valuation is $5,159,021,112. For the Community Mental Health Fund, the current year assessed values are projected to accrue property tax revenue of $4,513,387. For the Community Children’s Services Fund the current year assessed values are projected to accrue property tax revenue of $12,416,898. These amounts do not include any possible revenues due to recoupment.

City of St. Louis Mental Health Board of Trustees – September 21, 2023

INVITATION TO BID

Forest Park Forever, Inc. is accepting bids for the Forest Park Basketball Courts Construction Project at Forest Park Forever’s Offices, 5595 Grand Drive in Forest Park, St. Louis, Missouri 63112 until 1:00 P.M., September 29, 2023, at which time they will be opened and read aloud. Bids must be in a sealed envelope marked “Forest Park Basketball Courts Construction Project”

Bid documents are posted on Forest Park Forever’s website at https://www.forestparkforever.org/bids Forest Park Forever, Inc. reserves the right to reject any or all bids.

A non-mandatory pre-bid meeting will be held on Thursday, September 7, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at the Project Site, located on the north side of the Visitor and Education Center at 5595 Grand Drive in Forest Park.

Questions regarding the bid documents should be directed to Russ Volmert, Capital Projects Manager at Forest Park Forever. All questions to be sent electronically to rvolmert@forestparkforever.org Phone calls will not be allowed nor returned.

INVITATION TO BID

Fairway Construction is seeking bids from subcontractors, suppliers, and MBE/WBE businesses covered under the HUD Act of 1968. Minority Owned and Women Owned Businesses, Section 3 Residents and Business Concerns are encouraged to apply for the construction of Delmar Meadows, a 50 unit, 3 story, 56,364 Sq ft, senior living complex, located at 2625 West Delmar Street, Springfield, Missouri, 65802. This project is being developed and financed through the Missouri Housing Development Corporation (MHDC).

This project is subject to Section 3 requirements.

MBE/WBE Participation goals include 10% MBE, 5% WBE. Any firm requiring certification assistance should contact the FWC office at 404-935-0077.

Proposals for all work divisions are accepted.

Bids for this project are due on Monday, September 11th, 2023, by 2:00 PM EST.

For any questions and access to bid documents, please call 404-935-0077, email precon@ fairwayconstruction.net.

Fairway Construction, 3290 Northside Pkwy, Suite 310, Atlanta, GA 30327.

FAIRWAY CONSTRUCTION reserves all rights to waive any bid informalities and is an AA/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

REQUEST FOR BIDS

Alberici Constructors, Kwame Building Group and the Saint Louis Zoo seek bids from qualified firms to submit proposals for a project at the Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Park. The project consists of furnishing and installing one motorized vertical observation tower and platform. To request bid documents, please send an E-mail to stlzoobids@alberici.com

REQUEST FOR BIDS

Great Rivers Greenway District requests qualifications for planning, engineering, surveying, landscape architecture, and architecture services for a Prequalification List. Information at www.greatriversgreenway. org/jobs-bids/ Submittals due September 29, 2023.

INVITATION TO BID

Fairway Construction is seeking bids from subcontractors, suppliers, and MBE/WBE businesses covered under the HUD Act of 1968. Minority Owned and Women Owned Businesses, Section 3 Residents and Business Concerns are encouraged to apply for the construction of The Residences at Jennings Place V, a 48 unit, 3 story, 51,353 Sq ft, senior living complex, located at Middle River Road and Steamboat Pass Road, Jennings, Missouri, 63136. This project is subject to Section 3 requirements. MBE/WBE Participation goals include 10% MBE, 5% WBE. Any firm requiring certification assistance should contact the FWC office at 404-935-0077. Proposals for all work divisions are accepted. Bids for this project are due on Monday, September 5th, 2023, by 2:00 PM EST. For any questions and access to bid documents, please call 404-935-0077, email precon@fairwayconstruction.net. Fairway Construction, 3290 Northside Pkwy, Suite 310, Atlanta, GA 30327.

FAIRWAY CONSTRUCTION reserves all rights to waive any bid informalities and is an AA/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

SEALED BIDS

Bids for Paved Trail Repair, Weston Bend State Park, Weston, MO, Project No. X211701 will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, 9/14/23 Bidders must be registered to bid. This is an equal opportunity bidding event and MBE/ WBE firms are encouraged to respond. Federal funds are being used in the project, and all relevant federal, state and local requirements apply.

Projectinformation available at: http://oa.mo.gov/ facilities

FURNISHINGS, CONVEYING EQUIPMENT, FIRE SUPPRESSION, PLUMBING, HVAC, ELECTRICAL, COMMUNICATIONS, ELECTRONIC SAFETY AND SECURITY, EARTHWORK, EXTERIOR IMPROVEMENTS, AND MATERIAL PROCESSING AND HANDLING EQUIPMENT. ALL INTERESTED AND QUALIFIED SMALL, DISADVANTAGED, MINORITY AND WOMEN’S BUSINESSES SHOULD CONTACT, IN WRITING, (CERTIFIED LETTER, RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED) JASON BROWN, TO DISCUSS THE SUBCONTRACTING OPPORTUNITIES. ALL NEGOTIATIONS MUST BE COMPLETED PRIOR

NOTICE OF FUNDS

AVAILABLE

AFFORDABLE HOUSING TRUST FUND

The Affordable Housing Commission (“AHC”) of the City of St. Louis hereby notifies interested applicants of the availability of $18,854,885 million in grant and loan funding from two sources. The funds to be awarded are:

Affordable Housing Trust Funds (AHTF) – These funds are intended for use in the development of housing and the provision of housing-related services that address the goals of developing and preserving affordable and accessible housing, preventing homelessness and/or providing services for the homeless. Projects funded by the AHTF must benefit persons with incomes at or below 80% of the area median income. The Trust Fund must use 40% of its funds to assist households with incomes at or below 20% of the area median income. $6,354,885 million will be awarded.

American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) - These funds are intended for the creation and preservation of affordable housing in efforts to prevent homelessness. $12,500,000 million will be awarded to address the disparate impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic on low to moderate-income households and located in HUD qualified Census Tracts.

As a step to ease the application burden, the Commission has com bined the application process for the two funding sources. Non-profit agencies and developers may apply for: a) service-related grants, b) loans and other subsidies for rental housing production, and c) loans and other subsidies for for-sale housing developments. Separate application forms are available for each type of request. Because the Commission will be awarding funds from two sources, dollars awarded may be from a combination of funding sources. The Commission does NOT make grants or loans to individuals seeking housing or support services.

Priorities for funding for this round include high quality applications that:

• Propose housing, shelter, or housing services for persons and families with incomes at or below 20% of the area median income.

• Propose permanent supportive housing for special needs and vulnerable populations with incomes at or below 30% of the area median income.

• Propose housing, shelter, or housing services for persons and families with incomes at or below 65% of the area median income.

• Proposes housing, shelter, or housing services for persons and families with incomes at or below 80% of the area median income and located within a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Qualified Census Tract in the City of St. Louis (2023). https://www.huduser.gov/portal/sadda/sadda_qct.html.

• Provide assistance or initiatives that prevent homelessness for households or individuals earning at or below 80% AMI.

• Provide affordable housing services (grant program) while advancing ten or more objectives outlined in the City’s Sustainability Plan, or create affordable housing units (loan program) while advancing fifteen or more objectives outlined in the City’s Sustainability Plan.

• Develop affordable housing within one half-mile of public transportation.

• Comprehensively rehabilitate housing units (for-sale & rental) to a national green building standard (LEED, Enterprise Green, NGBS, etc.), or have an energy audit with a HERS of 85 or less.

• Proposes housing featuring three or more bedrooms and serves households earning at or below 80% of the area median income.

All rehabilitation projects must adhere to the City’s Lead Safe requirements and receive a Lead Safe Clearance performed by a State Licensed Inspector at the project’s conclusion.

All new construction projects must build to a national green building standard (LEED, Enterprise Green, NGBS, or EnergyStar with a RESNET energy auditor.)

The development is not required to receive formal certification. All development projects must complete (as a condition of funding, not required for application): 1) Spire High Efficiency Program Rebate application, and, 2) Ameren Missouri Energy Efficiency Rebate and Incentive application. AHC recommends all construction projects track and benchmark energy use.

All new construction projects must adhere to the Commission’s Universal Design requirements. These requirements may be downloaded from www.affordablehousingcommissionstl.org

Applications may be obtained on the internet at the Affordable Housing Commission’s website, www.affordablehousingcommissionstl.org, September 5, 2023. Applications will also be available for pickup after 12 noon, September 5th at Affordable Housing Commission offices, 1520 Market Street, Suite #2080, 63103. It is anticipated that allocations relating to applications submitted in this funding round will be made by mid-January 2024.

Frequently Asked Questions and the How to Apply for Affordable Housing Trust Fund Guide will be posted on the Affordable Housing Commission website beginning, Friday, September 8.

Frequently Asked Questions about the State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) Final Rule are available: https://home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/ SLFRF-Final-Rule-FAQ.pdf?utm_source=NCSHA&utm_campaign=3a9b7e4e7a-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2019_02_06_09_58_COPY_01&utm_medium=e mail&utm_term=0_f00bc192e4-3a9b7e4e7a-252989643

The U.S. Treasury and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development have published a How-To Guide for using State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds. It is available: https://home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/Affordable-HousingHow-To-Guide.pdf?utm_source=NCSHA&utm_campaign=3a9b7e4e7a-EMAIL_ CAMPAIGN_2019_02_06_09_58_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_ f00bc192e4-3a9b7e4e7a-252989643

The deadline for submission is 4:00 p.m., Friday, October 20, 2023. For additional information, please call the Affordable Housing Commission at 314-657-3880. # # #

St. LouiS american Bids & Public Notices

LAND

AUTHORITY

ISSUED SEPTEMBER 6, 2023

RESPONSES DUE OCTOBER 4, 2023

The Land Reutilization Authority of the City of St. Louis, Missouri (LRA) is seeking assistance with Property Condition Assessments for its building inventory. These services intend to assess the inventory for unsafe conditions and inform future stabilization and demolition. This program is being conducted by LRA in partnership with the St. Louis Regional Crime Commission.

Responses will be received at 1520 Market Street Suite 2000 St. Louis, Missouri 63103 (Attention Lance Knuckles), until 3:00 PM on Wednesday, October 4, 2023 at which time all proposals will be publicly opened.

American Rescue Plan Act funds, passed through from the Missouri Department of Economic Development are being used as the source of funds for this project. LRA is an equal-opportunity employer and values diversity.

The full invitation and all other documents may be downloaded at: https://www.stlouis-mo.gov/government/ procurement.cfm

SEALED BIDS

Bids for Replace Roof System Kansas City DOLIR Office

REQUEST FOR BIDS

Hanley Hills is requesting bids for concrete patch replacement of its streets. Sealed Bids are due September 29, 2023, 4:30 pm. Bid packages are available at Hanley Hills City Hall, 7713 Utica Drive, Hanley Hills, MO 63133 and on Hanley Hills’ website, Thevillageofhanleyhills.com

Building, Project No. O2325-01 will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, October 5, 2023. For specific project information and ordering plans, go to: http://oa.mo.gov/ facilities

SEALED BIDS

Bids for Paved Bike/Pedestrian Trail, Trail Network at Knob Noster State Park, Project No. X2226-01, will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, October 5, 2023, via MissouriBUYS.

Bidders must be registered to bid. Project information available at: http://oa.mo.gov/ facilities

ST. LOUIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES 2023-2024 WARMING AND COOLING EMERGENCY SHELTER REQUEST FOR PROPOSALBID #1749

The St. Louis County Department of Human Services, Homeless Services Program, is seeking proposals for the 2023-2024 Warming and Cooling Shelter. The total funding available is $142,900.00. Proposals are due by 2:00 p.m. on October 5th. Request For Proposal details and specifications can be obtained at: https:// stlouiscountymovendors. munisselfservice. com/Vendors/VBids/ BidNotificationLandingPage. aspx?BidId=2525

PUBLIC NOTICE

Donald Maggi Inc. is accepting bids from Disadvantaged Business Enterprises for subcontracting opportunities on the Newburg Road and Water Improvements Project No.: 19130310 Bid Date and Time: 1:00 pm, Tuesday, September 19, 2023 Plans/Specification is available via dropbox or www.questcdn.com Contact Donald Maggi Inc. at 573-364-7733 or email maggiconst@gmail.com

Donald Maggi Inc.

CITY

OF ST. LOUIS

BOARD OF PUBLIC SERVICE

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS for PROFESSIONAL SERVICES FOR ARCHITECTURAL/ ENGINEERING ANALYSIS OF FAÇADE AND STRUCTURE OF THE COMPTON HILL WATER

TOWER. Statements of Qualifications due by 5:00 PM CT, SEPTEMBER 15, 2023 through the Bid Express online portal at: https://www.bidexpress.com/ businesses/20618/home? agency=true. Request for Qualifications (RFQ) may be obtained from BPS website https://www.stlouis-mo. gov/government/departments/ public-service/, under BPS RFQ and RFP Announcement, or email Board of Public Service at bryanth@stlouis-mo.gov 25% MBE and 5% WBE

REQUEST FOR PUBLIC COMMENT

East-West Gateway Council of Governments (EWG) seeks comment on proposed amendments to the FY 2024-2027 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), Connected 2050, the St. Louis Region’s long-range transportation plan, and related Air Quality Conformity Determination.

The public comment period begins Friday, 9/1/23, and ends Wednesday, 10/4/23. The proposed amendments include IDOT’s transportation program and will be available at www.ewgateway.org. Comment forms and a summary of the amendment will be available on the EWG website. Send comments via the online comment form, by email to TIP@ewgateway.org, or by mail to East-West Gateway Council of Governments, Attn: TIP, 1 S. Memorial Drive, Ste. 1600, St. Louis, MO 63102.

Throughout the comment period, EWG staff will answer questions on the proposed amendments. Comments or questions must be received or postmarked by midnight, Wednesday, 10/4/23. EWG fully complies with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and related statues and regulations& activities. For more information or to obtain a Title VI Nondiscrimination Complaint Form, see www.ewgateway.org/titlevi.

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BID

Sealed bids for the Howell Island Conservation Area Causeway Demolition and Removal, Project No. 78-08-05, St. Charles and St. Louis counties, Missouri, will be received online at Virtubid with QuestCDN, UNTIL 2:00 PM, October 5, 2023, then publicly opened. A NonMandatory Pre-Bid meeting will be held for this project on September 21, 2023, at 10:00 AM at the Howell Island Conservation Area parking lot off of N. Eatherton Road, Chesterfield, MO 63005 (from eastbound I-64, exit onto Chesterfield Airport Road and take Olive Street/Eatherton Road three miles west to the area entrance). Project bid documents must be downloaded at https:// mdc.mo.gov/bidding project number 8645189, for a non-refundable cost of $42.00, which will add your company to the Planholder List and allow access to VirtuBid for online submittal of your bid. For project questions contact Joaquin Marquez, (573) 619-9847, bidding questions – Laura Buchanan, (573)522-4115, ext. 3727. QuestCDN Customer Support is available at 952-233- 1632 or info@questcdn.com

INVITATION TO BID

E.M. Harris Construction Company (EMH) seeks subcontractor bids for Marquette Homes Part 4 located at 3600 S. Grand, St. Louis, MO 63118. Scope of work involves renovation of a 3-story historic building, including, but not limited to, selective demolition, masonry restoration, roofing, carpentry, MEP, drywall, interior finishes, and appliances. Minority and Women Business Enterprises and Section 3 Businesses are strongly encouraged to bid. All workers must be OSHA 10 certified. EMH is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Project plans and specifications are available for viewing online through an invitation to bid. All bids due to EMH office by 5 pm, Friday, September 15, 2023. Project contact: Phil Krull pkrull@emharris.com or fax 314-436–6691.

INVITATION TO BID

Fairway Construction is seeking bids from subcontractors, suppliers, and MBE/WBE businesses covered under the HUD Act of 1968. Minority Owned and Women Owned Businesses, are encouraged to apply for the construction of Riverbend Estates III, a 48 unit, 3 story, 47,684 Sq ft, senior living complex, located at Washington, Missouri, 63039. This project is being developed and financed through the Missouri Housing Development Corporation (MHDC). MBE/WBE Participation goals include 10% MBE, 5% WBE. Any firm requiring certification assistance should contact the FWC office at 404-935-0077. Proposals for all work divisions are accepted. Bids for this project are due on Monday, September 17th, 2023, by 2:00 PM EST. For any questions and access to bid documents, please call 404-935-0077, email precon@ fairwayconstruction.net. Fairway Construction, 3290 Northside Pkwy, Suite 310, Atlanta, GA 30327. FAIRWAY CONSTRUCTION reserves all rights to waive any bid informalities and is an AA/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS

The St. Louis Economic Development Partnership and its affiliates (the “Partnership”) issue a Request for Qualifications (“RFQ”) from architectural and engineering firms for various projects in 2023-2024, including projects at the Helix Center and MET Center. This is an “Open” RFQ to which the Partnership may refer as projects become available but shall not obligate the Partnership to issue a contract. The Partnership will accept submissions on a rolling basis. The RFQ may be obtained at https://stlpartnership.com/rfprfq/

St. Louis Economic Development Partnership Equal Opportunity Employer

REQUEST FOR BIDS UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI – ST. LOUIS WELCOME AND ALUMNI CENTER

Interface Construction Corporation is seeking Subcontractor/Supplier bid proposals for UMSL Project Number SC008238, Welcome & Alumni Center. The project consists of extensive renovations and an addition to the existing building as well as enhanced parking, landscape and site amenities. Bids for this work are due to Interface Construction by 12:00 noon on September 20, 2023. For further information or to receive an electronic version of the bidding documents please contact Mr. Jim Quindry of Interface at 314/522-1011 or email (preferred) at jimq@interfacestl.com There is a Supplier Diversity Participation goal of 25% MBE; 10% WBE,DBE and Veteran; 3% SDVE for this project.

ROOMS FOR RENT $400-$440/mo Utilities, Cable, Internet Included, Near Busline 314-327-3042

Advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, imitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial\status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.“We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.”Call Angelita Houston at 314-289-5430 or email ahouston@stlamerican.com to place your ads today!

Artists Stout and Pharoah Monch will play with Keyon Harrold under the Big Top on Saturday, September 9 from 7 p.m. – 8:15 p.m.

Music

ences by merging the genres. And it is a responsibility he doesn’t take for granted.

“This music is important to me – and the vibrations are important to me,” Harrold said. “Hip hop has changed the world. It is such a global phenomenon that people are linked together because of this music.”

It is an honor for him to play a role in introducing new genres to new audiences by way of his “jazz immersed in hip hop” musical sensibilities.

“Some people’s interface is going to be hip hop, and some people’s interface is going to be something else,” Harrold said. “They get a chance to learn what it is that I love about jazz and I get a chance to take the people who only love jazz into another world that they don’t know in hip hop.”

Pushing boundaries is almost a prerequisite for jazz musicians. Harrold

moments of overplayed emotion, Washington is as engaging and entertaining to watch in the role –which is based on a 1980s television show starring Edward Woodward – as he was when he introduced the character nearly a decade ago. The antics of Washington’s McCall have resonated so strongly, a reboot of the television drama starring Queen Latifah made its way to CBS in 2021.

Washington tries his best not to dim the light of

creates and performs with that in mind. “From its origins, jazz has been one of those things where if it doesn’t keep evolving, it dies,” Harrold said.

His new album reflects his evolution as an artist.

The first single “Find Your Peace,” drops September 7 and features Common and Jean Baylor of The Baylor Project. But there is another male voice harmonizing with Baylor on the chorus of the song that listeners might not be able to instantly identify. It is Harrold.

“The time had come for me to create the next narrative for who I am as an artist and a musician,” Harrold said of his new album – and him branching out as a vocalist. “It’s a vulnerability. And it was the next progression of my artistry – and saying the things that I wanted to say and saying the things I have been through and without it being filtered through someone else.”

He feels blessed by the opportunity to express his talents beyond playing and composing music. As the title of his first single explicitly states, he is

co-star Dakota Fanning as agent Emma Collins, but it is a futile effort. There is a natural chemistry between Fanning and Washington.

It feels familiar because it is. When Fanning was the resident adorable child actor of her day, Washington served as her protector with a strikingly similar character premise in Tony Scott’s 2004 action-drama Man on Fire While Remo Girone manages to stand out as smalltown doctor Enzo Arisio, Washington’s presence is so commanding that the rest of the cast is relegated to perfunctory players who deliver the necessary ingredients for the franchise’s formula.

focused on peace.

“I’m there right now,” Harrold said. “And I am trying to usher that peace into as many people as I possibly can. Through my trumpet, through my vocals, through whatever is possible. I am an artist who is willing to take people higher, in whatever form they need to be taken.”

Music At The Intersection will take place September 9 – September 10 and feature more than 50 artists on four stages in the heart of Grand Center Arts District. Keyon Harrold with Pharoah Monch & Stout will play under the Big Top on Saturday, September 9 from 7 p.m. – 8:15 p.m.

The festival is presented by the Kranzberg Arts Foundation in partnership with the Steward Family Foundation and The Regional Arts Commission. For tickets and/or additional information regarding the lineup and stage locations, visit www.musicattheintersection.org.

Though few are expecting a mind-bending, cerebral experience when they come to see The Equalizer 3, more concerted efforts to keep viewers invested in the moments between the violent sequences would have been appreciated. Some would have a hint or two about what compelled McCall to take on the mafia in their home turf of Italy – instead of packing it into the last 100 or so seconds of the film.

The Equalizer 3 opened in theaters nationwide on Friday, September 1. The film is rated R with a running time of 109 minutes.