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St. Louis American Special Section

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CAC Audited JUNE 18 – 24, 2015

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Vol. 86 No. 11 COMPLIMENTARY

Vision 2015 urges inclusive in innovation Bioscience & Entrepreneurial Inclusion Initiative hosts symposium in STL By Rebecca Rivas Of The St. Louis American African Americans make up 13 percent of the population but produce less than one percent of the U.S. Gross Domestic Product, said Johnathan Holifield, architect of Inclusive Competitiveness and a co-founder of ScaleUp Partners LLC. “From where will underserved Americans’ new jobs, wealth and enterprises come if underserved Americans don’t create them?” Holifield asked at

Johnathan Holifield, architect of Inclusive Competitiveness and a co-founder of ScaleUp Partners LLC, provided the keynote speech at the Vision 2015 symposium held Friday, June 12 held at Harris-Stowe State University.

the Vision 2015 symposium on Friday, June 12 held at Harris-Stowe State University. More than 200 people attended the daylong event, which is part of the Bioscience & Entrepreneurial Inclusion Initiative intended to identify and nurture women and minority bioscience entrepreneurs in St. Louis. Holifield, who has assisted President Barack Obama in job creation initiatives, was the keynote See VISION, A7 Photo by Rebecca Rivas

Board replaces founder of charter school Broussard dumped from St. Louis Language Immersion Schools

See BROUSSARD, A7

First black Miss Teen Missouri U.S. Joye Forrest eyes national crown By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American

By Rebecca Rivas Of The St. Louis American Shocking many parents and students, the St. Louis Language Immersion Schools Board of Directors announced Saturday, June 13 that they had replaced school president Rhonda Broussard, who founded the charter school in 2009. n “There “This transition needs to has been under be more consideration for transparency some time,” wrote school board – or expect president David an eventual Luckes in a letter to exodus of school parents and staff. “The board and at least my SLLIS’s extended child.” community are grateful for the work – SLLIS Rhonda Broussard parent Loretta has done over the Zasaretti years to build SLLIS from the ground up.” Luckes told The St. Louis American he could not comment on why they decided to replace Broussard because it is a personnel matter. The decision was made during a closed board meeting held on Friday, June 12 at 6 p.m. The board voted unanimously for the change in school leadership, he said. Taking her place is William T. Rebore,

Joye to Missouri

Photo by Lawrence Bryant

DeAngelo Britt shielded his 8-year-old daughter, a student at the Chinese School, during a protest on Tuesday, June 16 over founder Rhonda Broussard being removed from the leadership of St. Louis Language Immersion Schools.

“I think the fact that I’m the first black Miss Teen Missouri United States, people have been all the more supportive because of that,” said Joye Forrest. “We are still in a very tough time in Missouri because of everything that happened last August, and people are proud that I was selected to represent the state.” In February of this year, Forrest became the first black Miss Teen Missouri United States in the history of the pageant system. “It has really given me a greater sense of family and community because of how everyone has n “Once responded to my title,” they said, Forrest said. ‘Miss “I believe that God put me in this position Spanish Lake Teen,’ for a reason – and he entrusted me with this I just started crown at this time for a freaking out. reason. I’m really just going to try to do what I started I’ve been taught all of crying.” my life and try to make change.” – Joye Forrest, 18, began Forrest competing in pageants at the beginning of her senior year at Crossroads College Prep. After two pageants, she decided to put her pageant career on hold to focus on college at The California Institute of the Arts, where she studies dance. But the unrest in Ferguson compelled her to attempt to become a beacon of light for the region. She was crowned Miss Spanish Lake Teen, which qualified her to compete for Miss Teen Missouri United States. See JOYE, A6

Clergy on the streets of Ferguson Rev. Dinah Tatman answered the call of God – and of young protestors By K. Evangeline Frye For The St. Louis American The Reverend Dinah Tatman vividly recalls when she decided to become involved in the protests following the fatal shooting of Michael Brown Jr. by then-Ferguson police officer Darren Wilson.

Following a prayer vigil called by clergy outside the Ferguson Police Department, protestors taunted clergy members for leaving. “So y’all are leaving us, huh?” one young man shouted. “You’re leaving us, too?” “I heard the pain of a hurt, abandoned child,” Tatman said. “It was as if he was speaking directly to me.”’

She stayed to speak with him, and the young man invited her to a prayer vigil that night at the Canfield Green Apartment complex where Brown was killed on August 9. That was August 10. Tatman went home in nearby Bellefontaine Neighbors, put on sweat pants and tennis shoes to go with her clergy collar, and showed up at the prayer vigil. In a

sense, she never left. She remained on the street for daily protests that continued well into December. She worked behind the scenes to form coalitions for change. She helped to bring in visitors from Cincinnati and New York City. Most importantly, she stood See FERGUSON, A6

ST. LOUIS AMERICAN • JUNE 18 - 24, 2015

THE STUFF THAT HAS PEOPLE TALKING Is Chris Rock’s ex going for the gold? According to New York Post’s “Page Six,” Chris Rock’s estranged wife Malaak Compton-Rock is demanding a huge chunk of his $70 million fortune and she just may get it. Page six says the former couple’s pre-nup has apparently expired. Chris and Maalak, who married in 1996 and have two children together, ended their marriage amid rumors Chris was having an affair with his “Top Five” co-star Rosario Dawson.

Conflicting reports from family regarding Bobbi Kristina The drama surrounding the tragic turn in the life of Bobbi Kristina continues amid rumors that she is being “taken home to die peacefully.” If a new report is to be believed, an unresponsive

Bobbi Kristina Brown is on the verge the nerve to sarcastically say to my everyone else. It seemed like he was he was of being moved from the hospital she’s brother “why don’t he just pull the plug kissing some woman on her cheek. You been in for months. because it’s costing too much money to know, when I saw the video I thought it was “They are planning to keep her in keep her alive.” inappropriate. I mean it’s unfortunate that Georgia and possibly bring her back Bobbi Kristina was found face down you have people filming you with phones to the townhouse,” A source told and unresponsive in her bathtub on everywhere you go when you’re on a reality RadarOnline. “That was her home and January 31. show. But it is what it is. I don’t know if it’s her mom’s home. If they can bring her grounds for divorce.” back it would be great. If she’s alive, then let her be home and surrounded A new ATL ‘Housewife’ on the by beautiful photos of her mom. It’s as Peter Mother of Lark Voorhies files horizon, Peter caught out there good as it gets in such a bad situation.” Thomas restraining order against Meanwhile, Bobby Brown’s sister According to several reports, Bravo Leolah Brown shuts down rumors that actress’ new hubby producers are looking for a new Bobbi Kristina has been taken home to die – lending support to last month’s rumor that housewife the Atlanta branch of its hit According to TMZ, the mother of franchise. there was essentially no chance Bobby would former “Saved by the Bell” actress Sources say they have narrowed the take his daughter off of life support. Lark Voorhies has filed for a Leolah also blasts Pat Houston on Facebook choices down to four. restraining order against Lark’s new Popular Atlanta Blogger Tamara claiming that Houston told Bobby Brown to husband. Patricia Voorhies claims Tattles says actresses Kim Fields pull the plug on Bobbi Kris because the cost of Jimmy Green, a reputed Blood gang and Drew Sidora, Atlanta business her care was too expensive. member, has been threatening her while woman Lena Chenier and a “dancer” Brown writes (in all caps): secretly sleeping in a closet in her named Tammy are all currently in the “Bobbi Kristina is not on house. running to be the next new housewife life support anymore and is Now Green has been ordered to stay – and all four have been spotted on continuing to improve. We will Lark 100 yards away from Patricia and her test shoots around Atlanta. never give up on her. Voorhies home. Lark and Green married in a In other “Real Housewives of Furthermore, Pat Houston quickie Las Vegas ceremony earlier Atlanta” news, co-star Cynthia is not allowed nowhere near this month. The couple were said to Bailey’s husband Peter Thomas was Bobbi Kristina per Bobbi have met on Facebook. caught kissing and fondling a woman at his bar Kristina’s request. in Charlotte. In the beginning of Bobbi Bailey responded to the scandal during an Kristina being in a Sources: Page Six, TMZ.com, RadarOnline, interview with V-103 FM’s Ryan Cameron coma Ms. So-called TamaraTattles.com, V-103, Facebook “Well I wasn’t there. I saw the video like Pat Houston had Chris Rock

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ST. LOUIS AMERICAN • JUNE 18 - 24, 2015

Building strong children

‘This is a great day for East St. Louis’

By Orvin Kimbrough For The St. Louis American

ESL Schools to receive $1.7M to fund 200 AmeriCorps members By Rebecca Rivas Of The St. Louis American The East St. Louis School District will receive $1.7 million in federal grant funds over the next two years to support 202 AmeriCorps members, who will assist teachers in the classrooms and help with afterschool programs. East St. Louis will be one of 10 communities nationwide to become part of the new Operation AmeriCorps initiative, according to a June 10 announcement by the federal agency that administers AmeriCorps, the Corporation for National and Community Service. The idea behind the initiative is to “use national service as the transformative catalyst to address a community’s most pressing local problem,” according to a statement from the corporation. In May 2011, the Illinois State Board of Education took control of the East St. Louis School District – an action triggered by years of academic failure. The district has 6,100 students, and academic performance levels have continued to drop since 2012, according to Illinois Department of Education data. “This grant will advance our goals in increasing student achievement and our commitment to excellence,” Devon Horton, assistant superintendent of the East St.

Louis School District 189, said in a media conference call on June 10. “It will also expand opportunities for our youth.” Starting in August, 85 AmeriCorps members will aid students in and out of the classroom, and during the summer months. AmeriCorp will have volunteers from the community and elsewhere assisting students during the school day. In addition, six AmeriCorps VISTA members will implement a city-wide College and Career Pathways program, focused on improving academic achievement and college and career planning. A team of 20 AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps will participate in a program that will include academic, recreation, and service learning projects for three months over the summer. “This is a great day for East St. Louis,” said the corporation’s chief executive officer Wendy Spencer. “This was a highly competitive grant.” The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville East St. Louis Center will be a principal partner in the initiative, said Jesse Dixon, the center’s director. “Operation AmeriCorps East St. Louis will provide an unprecedented level of support for students throughout the community, while strengthening our collective

Chandler Jack Jr. investigated clues from a fictitious crime case during a recent two-day enrichment camp organized by the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Upward Bound EC and BEM programs. impact across community organizations,” Dixon said. After school, the students will be able to receive support from East St. Louis agencies and entities partnering with the initiative. Other community partners besides SIUE include: the Jackie Joyner Kersee Foundation, Christian Activity Center, Griffin Center and Lessie Bates Davis Neighborhood House. The full-time AmeriCorps positions provide a living allowance, training and a college scholarship. Spencer said there is no set goal for the number of local residents who are hired, but they could all be local if the school district decides. Spencer said she prefers a mix of local and outof-town AmeriCorps members, and the program aims for a diverse selection of candidates. Members completing their service are eligible to earn a total of $455,576 in Segal AmeriCorps Education Awards

to pay for higher education or pay back student loans. East St. Louis School District is the seventh organization in the nation to receive Operation AmeriCorps funding, an initiative launched by the corporation last fall. Previously announced Operation AmeriCorps grantees include Salt Lake County, Utah; New York City; Tucson, AZ; Flint, MI; Pawtucket, RI; and Bloomfield, Iowa. Additional Operation AmeriCorps grantees will be announced later this month. “This grant allows us to strengthen our relationship with the after-school providers and higher education partners in our community,” said East St. Louis School District Superintendent Arthur Culver. “Together, we will provide students with an opportunity to acquire knowledge that will enhance their academic experience.”

Frederick Douglass once said, “It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.” I agree with Douglass, but my greatest concern is that the army of builders is too small. At birth, so many of our children begin a long march toward stunted growth and early death. Absent timely intervention from caring individuals, their fate is often sealed. I, like many, was disheartened to learn that Missouri leads the nation in the number of black children suspended from elementary school. That fact coupled with the realization that Missouri continues to top the nation’s charts for black homicide victimization rates leaves me reeling. I believe that building strong children is principally the responsibility of parents and families. And if they fall short or need a little help, other caring adults should consider it a privilege to step in. Not too long ago, I was with a leader who talked about opening his home to friends of his children who lived in particularly difficult situations. He took time to ask them their plans for their futures. This small act helps. Guest Columnist When I was in foster care, we called these families “resource families.” These families Orvin Kimbrough confront young people who are supposed to be in school when they roam the streets aimlessly. They plug in to the life of a kid and his or her family, consistently providing any time they have. A long time ago, during a particularly tough period of my life, I wondered how long children could survive on their own without responsible adults to provide guidance for right and wrong. After Mom died, my three siblings and I moved in with a distant cousin, who later had a stroke and became incapacitated. While she was undergoing treatment (she never recovered), the four of us, ages 11 to 17, lived on our own in her North St. Louis home for what seemed like an eternity (although it was probably no more than three months). Many adults from the church occasionally dropped food by the house. We ate well, but we were cognitively, emotionally and psychologically malnourished. This period of life didn’t cause our deprivation; it simply compounded what had been born many years earlier. When children are starved of proper parenting, this leads to overwhelmingly bad things. Parents can devolve to a place where they don’t notice the effect they have on their children. I liken the experience to generational asphyxiation – a slow death by suffocation. In order for us to change the trajectory of a generation, we have to mobilize an army of caring adults who are willing to work to challenge young people to take a different path and understand that they are marked for greatness, not prematurely sealed in death. Orvin Kimbrough is the president and CEO of United Way of Greater St. Louis. Follow his blog at ReimaginingOurFuture.org.

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Editorial / Commentary A4

ST. LOUIS AMERICAN • JUNE 18 - 24, 2015

Post’s Ferguson highlight reel is disturbing As part of the Press Club of Metropolitan St. Louis’ 2015 Media Person of the Year awards on June 11, where St. Louis American publisher and executive editor Donald M. Suggs shared honors with Jennifer Blome and Don Marsh, special recognition was given to the St. Louis PostDispatch for their coverage of the Ferguson unrest – and rightfully so. The Post’s relentless and multifaceted approach to covering the national phenomenon that stemmed from the death of Michael Brown Jr. certainly warranted the resulting positive attention, panel invitations and top-shelf awards – including a Pulitzer Prize for its photojournalism staff. And then they cued the video. Their peers and supporters in local media settled into their seats in the auditorium at Edwards Jones Headquarters in St. Louis County for the Post’s highlight reel on their coverage of the Ferguson unrest. And from the opening frame to the very end of the video, it undermined all of their beautiful work over the past 10 months. The Post’s Ferguson highlight reel opens with a 911 call about a “robbery” at Ferguson Market involving cigarillos. Yes, this is where they start the story, despite differing accounts whether Officer Darren Wilson even knew about the shoplifting incident when he stopped – and killed – the youth. The surveillance video from which the Post took their opening screen shots is also a painful open wound for many of us. Ferguson Police Chief Thomas Jackson released that video at the same time as the police killer’s name, igniting fury – as the Department of Justice warned it would – following the first night of peaceful protests in Ferguson after Brown’s killing. Through the manipulative release of this video, we learned that it only takes a few seconds of irresponsibly packaged and suspect information to dismantle progress and incite emotions. Based on their highlight reel, it was a lesson that the Post

Photo by Lawrence Bryant

The positive Ferguson protest community addressing systematic injustices, like these faithful women at the Ferguson Police Department on August 14 – prevalent in Post-Dispatch coverage of Ferguson – is undermined by a video highlight reel that Post editors are showing that starts with Michael Brown Jr. stealing cigarillos and ends with an irate white reader. apparently missed. The arc of Ferguson in this Post video was: menacing black youth steals, police officer responds, menacing black youth attacks, brave officer kills menacing black youth, savage black community responds with violence. To complete the narrative, Post editor Gilbert Bailon began his brief remarks following the video with a litany of abuses his staff survived (physical assaults, threats, tear gas) to cover Ferguson. This was a segment in an awards dinner, so there was no question-and-answer period, but we were left with questions for Bailon and the Post. If this was Ferguson to you, then what compelled you to stay? Why did you dedicate so many resources to peeling back the layers of systemic dysfunction that led to the tragic death of Michael Brown Jr. if it were just a fight between a violent suspect and a police officer who feared for his life? As our diverse leadership and staff squirmed in our seats while the video played on, it became apparent how important it is to have African Americans as part of any major decisionmaking process in a newsroom in St. Louis. Had this video been shown to even the least influential black employee of the Post-Dispatch, they would have (or at least should have)

warned editors that this video would strike a major blow to the renewed sense of trust the Post earned in the black community during Ferguson. Believe it or not, it gets slightly worse. The video concluded with a voicemail left by a Post reader – judging by her voice, an elderly white woman – saying that she was sick of all of the Mike Brown coverage and stories about people who “spend all of their money getting their hair done every week” – and she wants her good, old paper back. Ha, ha, ha. That was a funny ending – for somebody, apparently. Not for us. And then there was Post editor Gilbert Bailon, talking about equipping his reporters and photojournalists with gas masks, bulletproof vests and hard hats. He even said they were given special police training in how to handle themselves amid the dangers of Ferguson. Bailon implied that Post staffers were brave soldiers defending themselves on the most vicious of enemy turfs. For a newspaper that has dramatically diversified its coverage in the past 10 months and righteously advanced the message of a more unified St. Louis region, it was a very disappointing, even disturbing, message to send to their peers in the local media.

As I See It - A Forum for Community Issues

What are we doing in Iraq? Don’t feel bad if you’re confused about what the United States is trying to accomplish in Iraq. President Obama doesn’t seem to know, either – or else he won’t say. Days after admitting that “we don’t yet have a complete strategy” for training Iraqi government forces – which are supposed to ultimately defeat the Islamic State – Obama is sending an additional 450 troops to execute this unstrategized mission. That will raise the number of U.S. military personnel in Iraq to about 3,500. But what, realistically, is their goal? And how are they supposed to achieve it? It is understandable that the president might feel pressed to do something in response to the Islamic State’s recent battlefield gains – including the rout of disorganized Iraqi forces in Ramadi, the capital of Anbar Province. But Obama imposed such tight restrictions on the activities of American soldiers that only the sunniest optimist would believe this increase can make a military difference. U.S. troops will not be allowed near the front lines, where their presence, according to Obama’s critics, could stiffen the resolve of an Iraqi army that often chooses to flee rather than fight. There will be no American forward air controllers, who could direct U.S. airstrikes with far greater precision. There will be no use of deadly Apache attack helicopters in support of Iraqi

ground operations. In essence, sending the 450 new troops is less a military move than a political gesture. After the fall of Ramadi, Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi desperately needed a signal of U.S. support. With the added personnel, U.S. commanders will start by establishing a fifth site for training Iraqi forces. The new camp will Columnist be in Anbar, the heartland Eugene Robinson of Iraq’s Sunni minority, where American advisers will try to somehow inspire loyalty to the Shiitedominated central government in Baghdad. Given the sectarian brutality of the Shiite militias that fight alongside the regular army, many Anbar tribal leaders have come to see the Islamic State as the lesser of two evils. When the American airstrikes failed to halt the Islamic State in its tracks, it didn’t take a clairvoyant to predict a future of gradual escalation and mission creep. Obama has stubbornly resisted, however. I believe he simply does not want his legacy to include embroiling the United States in another big, tragic, expensive, open-ended Middle East war. Critics of Obama’s policies propose relatively modest steps

that sound reasonable: Speed up the training. Intensify the bombing, using American spotters. Provide more arms. Let U.S. advisers stand shoulder to shoulder with Iraqi officers on the front lines. But none of this deals with the central problem, which is that too many Iraqis place sectarian, ethnic and regional loyalties ahead of their allegiance to the nation. Yes, the United States could easily marshal the necessary forces and recapture Ramadi. But what would we do with it? Give it back to a government that the city’s residents don’t trust? Keep it under martial law until we could make it safe for McDonald’s? Here’s a bigger question: Would a large, long-term U.S. military presence in Iraq – and, almost surely, Syria as well – make Americans safer? I think not, but it’s an argument worth having. What makes no sense to me is believing in an Iraqi nation that doesn’t believe in itself. Obama’s hesitancy suggests a deep skepticism about what, at this point, must be considered his war. That would explain why he keeps announcing we have no strategy. Maybe one does exist – but the president doesn’t think it will work. Or perhaps Obama is playing for time. The problem is that in any war, the enemy gets a vote. And nothing, so far, has altered the fact that the Islamic State is far more in control of events than the president.

As I See It - A Forum for Community Issues

MetroLink needs north/south expansion By Alderman Cara Spencer For The St. Louis American The St. Louis region needs a high-quality light rail system to connect Florissant/Ferguson and our densely populated South Side to Downtown and the Central Corridor. Now is the time to push for economic investment to help stabilize some of the city and county’s most vulnerable communities. We should be demanding that our local leaders prioritize North Side/South Side MetroLink expansion as imperative to making St. Louis a progressive and economically just metropolitan area. Public transportation speaks volumes about a society. Lack of transportation is an indicator of economic injustice and is the number one deterrent to employment and community involvement across the country. Light rail spurs development along its routes, and in St. Louis has resulted in $15 billion in public and private investment along existing MetroLink corridors. Serving 60,000 people daily, 95 percent of whom are traveling to school and work, MetroLink is a huge success. Why is this imperative now? County Executive Steve Stenger announced at the end of May that St. Louis County is taking a fresh look at expanding the MetroLink. On the one hand, it is exciting to see renewed interest in light rail in St. Louis County. Yet on the other hand, it is alarming that the expansions

mentioned did not include a north/south route, but instead focused on the ClaytonWestport, Lambert-Florissant and Shrewsbury-Butler Hill lines. These three lines fail to provide service to the region’s most densely populated areas and many communities that have the highest need. The north/ south does, and its plan is not new. In fact, the north/south line has been the favored expansion in the region for Guest Columnist 15 years. In 2000, East-West Cara Gateway Council Spencer of Governments, with MODOT and Metro, completed an analysis of major transportation projects in the region. The corridor that showed the most promise for transportation investment was the north/south line. In 2005 and 2008, the council followed up with a detailed study of the route. The corridor goes from Downtown, runs through North City up to the county, along North Florissant and Natural Bridge before reaching St. Louis Community College – Florissant Valley. Headed south from Downtown, the route follows Jefferson before joining South Broadway and the I-55 corridor. So what is Stenger doing? St. Louis County passed the Prop

Letters to the Editor Essential role in the struggle I want to thank Adolphus Pruitt of the NAACP for the work he put in to get this community to establish the $10 million minority contractor loan fund, which I read was an issue he raised in the course of the inclusion negotiations with MSD. I need not tell him how long overdue is this kind of tangible commitment to diversity and investment in minority businesses. Since he assumed the helm of the NAACP, it has been a driving force for the economic advancement of black and minority businesses. I just wanted to express my thanks towards him for the organization taking on this essential role in the struggle. Eric E. Vickers, St. Louis

A tax increase for Metro in 2010, which means they have continued to collect about $40 million annually specifically for a MetroLink expansion. With this new study underway, it’s possible a route will be selected that primarily benefits small portions of the county and provides only limited economic value to the region. I’m a newly elected alderman representing the 20th Ward, one of the most densely populated areas in the City of St. Louis and one of the most vulnerable, with an unemployment rate of 18.7 percent. The north/south line would go right through the 20th Ward and give us access to the jobs being created in the Central Corridor. It would also spur development in our community, and others like ours on the North Side, after decades of disinvestment. As a member of the Friends of the NorthSouth MetroLink Expansion, we are reaching out for partners in social justice to build a coalition of support for the NorthSouth MetroLink Expansion. We need to tell Stenger that we demand that Prop A money be used in a fair, just and equitable way. We need to build a case for all leaders to make this a top priority for our region. Please join us in the fight to prioritize the north/south MetroLink expansion. Cara Spencer (spencerc@ stlouis-mo.gov) is alderman of the 20th Ward in the City of St. Louis.

All letters are edited for length and style.

administrator (CA) to actually run the government, so it is often a position of unchallenged authority. Knowledge, actual or perceived, equates to power and influence, as elected officials rely on the CA for guidance through the government maze. The ultimate result is that citizens perceive government as little more than a criminal enterprise that preys on those who lack power and influence. The experts analyzing municipal government need to review the position of city administrator because citizens deserve honest government. Michael K. Broughton, Green Park

They are our future The children and families of McKinney, Texas deserve a police department that is

committed to stopping crime and preserving justice, not a department that tolerates the use of excessive force. To protect any community, law enforcement officials must respect that community. The resignation of Cpl. Eric Casebolt is a good first step, but hardly the last. The NAACP will continue working with community members and law enforcement to ensure that no one, especially the young people of McKinney, are ever again the victims of excessive force, racial profiling and police brutality. We join the community in wrapping our arms around these young people as they heal from the physical and mental scars this incident may have caused. They are our future, and their lives matter. Cornell William Brooks, president & CEO NAACP

Give back Hastert money An Illinois senator is donating a Dennis Hastert contribution to a non-profit. It’s a thoughtful gesture. It helps kids and victims every time an adult distances himself from a child predator. We hope U.S. Sen. Roy Blunt (R-Missouri) does likewise. We also hope that, for the sake of healing, Blunt joins us in our effort to get the Hastert portrait removed from Congress. Barbara Dorris, outreach director Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests

Criminal city administration Since August 2014, experts have been analyzing municipal governments in St. Louis County. Their focus has been on the courts, traffic fines, incarceration and the police who feed this bewildering complex. Critics contend that this system is dysfunctional and corrupt; that it preys on the working poor, particularly citizens of color. Fourth Class (small) cities often rely on their city

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Lawrence Bryant - Photojournalist Denise Hooks -Anderson, M.D. Health Editor Jami Ballentine-Dolby Entertainment Danie Rae - Style Editor Dana G. Randolph Contributing Editor Fred Sweets - Contributing Editor Sales / Marketing Onye Hollomon- Sr. Acct. Exec. Barbara Sills - Sr. Acct. Exec. Pam Simmons- Sr. Acct. Exec. Nevida Medina - Classified Ad Mgr Angelita F. Jackson - Graphic Artist Production Mike Terhaar - Art Director Melvin Moore - Graphic Designer Administration Robin Britt - Controller Cathy Sewell - NIE Manager Ishmael Sistrunk - Web/IT/ Promotions Coordinator Kate Daniel - Exec Assistant Loistine McGhee - Acct. Assistant Mary Easter - Receptionist

The St. Louis American

2315 Pine Street, St. Louis, MO, 63103. Phone: 314-533-8000 / Fax: 314-533-2332

ST. LOUIS AMERICAN • JUNE 18 – 24, 2015

Why we went to The Vatican By Rev. Traci Blackmon For The St. Louis American

Rams improve Herbert Hoover Club

Photo by Lawrence Bryant

Rookie Running back Todd Gurley visited with youth from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis at the Herbert Hoover Club on North Grand Boulevard on June 10 when Rams players and staff helped to lay sod for a new football field.

Library expands telescope program

St. Louis County Library’s Borrow a Telescope program is expanding. All nine branches now have a total of 12 telescopes available for check-out. The program was made possible by donations from the Astronomical Society and the St. Louis County Library Foundation. Patrons can request a telescope at the circulation desk or by calling 314-9943300.

Story Time at Berkeley Civic Center Parents As Teachers will host Story Time at the Berkeley Civic Center, 8425 Airport Rd., 9:30-10:30 a.m. on June 22, July 20 and August 24. This free interactive literacy program will be presented by a certified parent educator who will read several stories centered around a theme. Children and parents will have the opportunity to participate in a related activity. It’s recommended for children three months to five years. Call 314-506-9069 for more information. No pre-registration is required.

Nurse funds scholarships in Ferg-Flor Pat Potter, the coordinator of research for nursing and allied health at BJC, started a scholarship fund to assist students within the Ferguson-Florissant School District who want to pursue careers in the nursing field. The scholarship was started in Nov. 2014 with an initial investment of $5,000 from Potter. She also received funding from BJC Health System, Elsevier, the Nursing Honor Societies (Sigma Theta Tau) at St. Louis and Webster Universities, and private donors. Only students who attend McCluer and McCluer South-Berkeley High Schools, the two high schools within Ferguson, are eligible. Potter recently awarded two $1,500 scholarships to Courtney Spink and Ashley Jones, graduates of McCluer High School. Spink will attend the University of Missouri-St. Louis and Jones will use her scholarship at the University of Missouri-Columbia.

Last week I joined a delegation of PICO Network clergy and lay leaders who engaged in a week of listening, discussion and reflection with key Vatican leaders and advisors of Pope Francis. Without a doubt, this global religious leader has made a universal impact and appeal to the moral conscience of nations and the moral centers of humanity to care for and embrace the poor and marginalized around us. Our friendship and ministry partnership, forged in the crucible of the Ferguson Uprising, has led us to travel to many communities, joining a chorus of clergy leaders and faith-based networks, prophetically calling the systems of state violence and racial oppression into account. And the same blood that calls out to us from the streets of Ferguson, Baltimore, Oakland, Chicago, Philadelphia, New York, Miami, Detroit and New Orleans is calling out to the largest religious institution in the world for a response. We are going to compel this transcendent moral leader and Holy Father of the largest Christian denomination to join us in this holy endeavor: affirming the dignity and imago dei of vulnerable and marginalized people of color, who are experiencing the effects of sinful principalities and powers through the evils of mass incarceration and statesponsored violence. We carried with us the stories of wailing Rev. Traci mothers, angry youth, terrorized fathers, Blackmon exploited women, marginalized families and vulnerable communities. We named the sins of racial oppression made concrete through economic exploitation. We want to make visible the consequences of the looting of our neighborhoods by global financial institutions. We want to elevate the searing of our souls and minds through psychological and physical violence. And we want to welcome Pope Francis’ voice into the clarion call affirming black, brown and all the lives of the marginalized matter, by calling us all to see in one another’s faces our shared reflection of the Divine. We want to strengthen the public resolve and voice of the Catholic church to stand boldly and united against the forces of institutionalized oppression and systemic racism which effaces the imago dei in all of us. We come from many Christian denominations: Pentecostal, UCC, Baptist, Methodist, Non-Denominational. We are male and female. We are black. And we stand in a long tradition of prophetic preaching, organizing and justice ministry. This tradition has helped to inform one of the many theological influences of many Catholics known as liberation theology. This idea that Jesus is the ultimate and greatest liberator is not a tangential dogma for us. Nor is it a peripheral practice of Christian faith. We believe the work of justice is the result of faithful discipleship after the ways of Jesus. Rev. Traci Blackmon is pastor of Christ the King United Church of Christ in Florissant and a member of the Ferguson Commission.

ST. LOUIS AMERICAN • JUNE 18 – 24, 2015

FERGUSON Continued from A1

by the frustrated youth crying out for understanding and action. Until she was called away to care for her father, who was badly injured in a car accident that killed her mother on December 12, Tatman walked the streets of Ferguson. Wherever she walked, she prayed – doing, she said, “what God told me:” bring hope to the people. Tatman could not help but notice that few clergy walked with her. “All of a sudden, I felt out of place with the clergy,” she said. “I heard the chants and taunts of the protestors, and I felt more comfortable with them.” A trained pastoral counselor, Tatman is experienced in prison and street ministry to the homeless. “There is no reason for homelessness in our cities,” she said. “St. Louis should be ashamed that its people cannot find decent housing and, when they do, they cannot afford it because they don’t have a decent wage.” Early in Ferguson, she provided tents and sleeping bags pulled from her basement for protestors who remained overnight. She offered both food and spiritual sustenance. “Either they or someone they knew had experienced harsh treatment or been injured or killed by the police,” she said. Justina Cramer, known in the Ferguson movement as “Tina the Activist,” knows Tatman’s passion first-hand. A Ferguson resident with a 14-year-old son, Cramer lives around the corner from

JOYE

Continued from A1 “Once they said, ‘Miss Spanish Lake Teen,’ I just

Photo by Lawrence Bryant

Rev. Dinah Tatman walked down West Florissant Avenue carrying a Bible and an upside-down U.S. flag, the signal for citizen in distress, during a protest in Ferguson on April 28. Canfield Green, where many years ago she obtained her first apartment. She was called to the streets by the reality that “Michael Brown could have been and was anybody’s son.” “She was always praying

and walking in her robe,” Cramer said of Tatman. “She was always there. She didn’t look down on people. She stayed when nobody was there. She wasn’t trying to be on camera. When someone

was wrong, she told them in a loving way.” State Senator Maria Chappelle-Nadal was another constant presence in Ferguson during the early and most volatile days. Like Tatman, she

is childless – and felt that the youngest protestors needed a mothering influence in support of their protests. “My mother allowed me to express myself as a young person, and it made a

started freaking out,” she said. “I started crying, saying thank you to my mom, thank you to God.” Since returning home from college for the summer, she has made countless public

appearances and given talks at places like The Muny and The Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis. She will host an afternoon fundraiser fashion show on Saturday, June 20 at Afro

World to help her with expenses when she vies to become only the second black Miss Teen United States next week in Washington, D.C. “I want to show how to be cute, but still classy,” Forrest said. “Hopefully, I can reach those young ladies between the ages of 12-21 and encourage them to dress in positive ways.” Her platform is to promote purity. “I really want to encourage people to be pure of mind, body and soul, and that comes

with knowing who you are, keeping your morality and always standing up for what you believe in,” Forrest said. She also plans to help spread greater awareness of HIV/ AIDS as well as encourage the community to be a support system for those living with the disease. Her mother, Afro World President Sheila Forrest, created an organization called My Sister’s Keeper that provides assistance to women living with HIV/AIDS and their families.

difference,” Chappelle-Nadal said. Bishop Derrick Robinson, another front-line protest supporter and organizer, saw Tatman’s impact. “She wanted them to see how important they were and how the word of God could be relevant to the streets,” Robinson said. “We talked about how we can protect young people, and she said, ‘I am out here to serve our young people.’ And she did that.” Tatman abandoned her everyday life, where she had been focused on the goal of building a transitional housing center for women and children through her outreach ministry, Greater New Visions Ministries, Inc. Her husband Marvin, a deacon at New Sunny Mount Missionary Baptist Church in North St. Louis, drove her to and from protests daily. “I know that she is serious about it and has to do it, because she is doing God’s will,” he said. Doing God’s work got her arrested by those enforcing man’s laws. “I got arrested trying to protect a young girl standing on the corner where there was a tank pointed at her,” Tatman said. “When I grabbed her, trying to cover her with my body, I was immediately snatched up in the air.” She said the police officer inflicted severe pain as he “manhandled” her. “God was allowing me to see and feel what these young people, especially our young men, go through on a daily basis,” she said. “The way they treated me, I could feel and personally know how they provoked those youth. I was a nobody to him, just like our children are.”

“I want people to be encouraged and inspired by what I’m doing,” Forrest said. “And to know that they can do whatever their hearts desire and keep reaching for the stars.” Afro World presents Meet and Greet/ In-Store Teen Fashion Will take place from 3-5 p.m. Saturday, June 20 at Afro World Hair and Fashion Company, 7276 Natural Bridge Rd. in Normandy. For more information, call (314) 3895194 or visit www.afroworld. com.

ST. LOUIS AMERICAN • JUNE 18 – 24, 2015

BROUSSARD

that the board wanted to close the International School – a secondary campus that had just opened in August 2014 – without Broussard’s knowledge, she said. “He freelanced the decision,” Herzberg said of Schoemehl. “The board has just continued to make surprising

decisions to the parents.” Herzberg said when Schoemehl was on the school board at Grand Center Arts Academy charter school, he led the effort to fire the beloved school principal. But parents fought back and got the principal reinstated. “We are going to try and do the same with Rhonda,” Herzberg said. Schoemehl told The American that he cannot comment because Luckes, as chair, is the only board member who can speak to the press about the school. SLLIS was opened in 2009 with the French and Spanish schools. In 2012, SLLIS opened the Chinese School, followed by the International School in August. Tracy Britt, a SLLIS parent with two students in the district, had her seventh grader enrolled in the International School. She attended the board’s “emergency meeting,” Britt said, which upset many parents. “That was just wrong,” Britt said. “We already committed to sending our kids there, and the deadline for other schools had already passed. That’s just another example of how the board is insensitive to the parents.” The board decided not to close the International School, in the end. SLLIS’ charter from the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) is overseen by the University of Missouri – St. Louis. The school has repeatedly received international recognition. Herzberg said she was involved when SLLIS was just an idea Broussard had. “Seeing it come to life has been amazing and inspiring,” Herzberg said. “To have the rug yanked out from under us over some operation issues that were not clearly defined and having her forced out is

extremely upsetting.” After the board’s announcement, students posted hand-written signs up at the school, stating “I love Rhonda” and “Think of the kids.” About 57 percent of the schools’ students are AfricanAmerican and almost nine percent Hispanic, according to data from DESE. SLLIS’ achievement gap among minorities mirrors that of many other charter and public schools. AfricanAmerican students are trailing their white counterparts considerably in both math and English language arts. Broussard’s leaving will have a significant impact on the district’s black students, Zasaretti said. “There is already a sore lack of diversity in SLLIS, particularly for AfricanAmerican students, and now the one consistent presence of a leader and nurturer is gone,” she said. “I am speaking for myself, but there needs to be more transparency – or expect an eventual exodus of at least my child, who has been there since first grade.” Britt said that for six years the board has heard parents’ concerns, but little has changed. She feels Broussard was often used as a scapegoat and “took the heat” from parents, but the board needs to be held accountable for lack of progress. Britt also said the board should have held an emergency meeting with parents to share this important news, rather than wait until school had ended and send a mass email. “The way they handled this is horrible,” Britt said. “What a way to start off this new direction that they are supposedly heading in.”

Many agreed that while efforts are being made to get minorities introduced to the innovation community, initiatives should also urge

potential investors and clients to take a chance on minority entrepreneurs. Holifield posed the question to the St. Louis region: How

can we build a “similar risk tolerance” for minorities in the innovation community? Follow this reporter on Twitter @rebeccarivas.

Continued from A1

senior vice president of the education consulting firm BAFC Consulting that the school board hired. Luckes said BAFC’s contract was signed not long before the board’s vote to remove Broussard. Luckes declined to provide the firm’s contract amount, the contract itself or the exact day it was hired, saying he would announce these details at the June 24 board meeting. The board is not calling Rebore the school president. Luckes said Rebore is leading the three school leaders and staff “during the transition,” or until the interim president is selected. The news outraged many parents, especially because the board chose to make the announcement after the last day of school, “with a Saturday summer break email,” said parent Loretta Zasaretti. “Where has the school community engagement taken place since this has been ‘under consideration for some time?’” Zasaretti wrote in an email to Luckes. “Was this a voluntary move for Rhonda? Or a corporate-style, bottom-line move, as detractors of charter schools speak of?” Broussard did not return a phone call from The American. An African American from Lafayette, Louisiana, Broussard first came to St. Louis to study at Washington University, where she majored in French and secondary education. She also holds a master’s degree in French studies from New York University. Rebore is white and is currently an education professor at Saint Louis University. On Tuesday, June 16, about 20 students and parents

VISION

Continued from A1 speaker for the event – which was organized by BioSTL, ITEN and St. Louis Makes. His consultancy ScaleUp works to connect “disconnected Americans” to the innovation economy. While there’s a big push to establish strong innovation communities in St. Louis and across the country, he said those support networks for entrepreneurs don’t often reach minority populations. “The innovation economy is invisible to those who are not connected to it,” he said. In the St. Louis region, most innovation assets are concentrated in St. Louis city, where the population is almost 50 percent AfricanAmerican, he said. The region is counting on the city to perform economically, he said, but that’s not going to happen unless the minority population is connected to resources that support startups and entrepreneurs. Travis Sheridan, founding executive director of the nonprofit Venture Café Foundation-St. Louis, focused his morning speech around equality. Every Thursday, he said, the organization holds a weekly Venture Café Gathering to help innovators and entrepreneurs “find one another” and collaborate. However, the room doesn’t always look as inclusive as he’d like and, he said, “It makes my heart hurt.” But that’s just one way the innovation community needs to grow in inclusiveness, he said. Right now, so much of the support goes out to the tech community. It needs to expand to include the arts, food and other areas that aren’t often supported financially but are needed for a healthy community. “Innovation is a process to improve the human condition,” Sheridan said. While many who attended had participated in a Venture Café Gathering, some were new faces. Sheridan said his main call to action was for everyone to “keep showing up.” One person in the crowd was Lisette Dennis, who retired from the Regional Arts Commission last year.

Photo by Lawrence Bryant

Six-year-old Ephron Campbell, a student at the Chinese School, holds his sign during a protest on Tuesday, June 16 over founder Rhonda Broussard being removed from the leadership of St. Louis Language Immersion Schools. stood in the rain with signs outside of the Spanish School to protest the decision. Several parents said they were “devastated.” They also questioned whether the consulting firm would be able to fulfill Broussard’s school vision – which combines the innovative, leadership-oriented

International Baccalaureate Organization curriculum with language immersion in the urban public school setting. Susan Herzberg, a SLLIS parent, said many believe that school board member Vince C Schoemehl Jr. pushed the effort to oust Broussard. Earlier in the year, Schoemehl announced

n “From where will underserved Americans’ new jobs, wealth and enterprises come if underserved Americans don’t create them?” – Johnathan Holifield

She recently participated in Square One – the training program designed to support first-time entrepreneurs and sponsored by the Center for Emerging Technologies. Dennis is working on designing apps, including a DIY home improvement tutorial app that’s written in “plain English” and has photos of the tools needed for each job.

Dennis once advised artists who were seeking funding from the arts commission. “Now,” she said, “I know how they feel.” Looking around the room, she recognized many faces. She pointed to an AfricanAmerican woman and said, “She had a brilliant idea but could not get funded here in town.”

Follow this reporter on Twitter @rebeccarivas.

ST. LOUIS AMERICAN â€˘ JUNE 18 - 24, 2015

NAACP YOUR ST. LOUIS COUNTY

WWW.STLCOUNTYNAACP.ORG ABOUT US HOME ADVOCACY & ISSUES SELECTED PHOTOS FROM THE...

HISTORY

th Freedom Fund Leadership Dinner

ST. LOUIS COUNTY NAACP HOSTS BIGGEST DINNER IN ITS HISTORY

Normandy High School Chorale and Director Duane Foster and Andreal Hoosman.

Chancellor Mark Wrighton, Washington University.

John Gaskin, Jerry Holloway Jane Dueker, and Esther Haywood.

Bernard Randolph, Jr. M.D.

On Tuesday June 9th at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel the St. Louis County NAACP hosted it's 77th Annual Freedom Fund Leadership Dinner. The Dinner was Chaired by NAACP National Board Member John Gaskin III. This year's General Chairmen included Kathy Osborn, Executive Director RBC, Atty. Frankie M. Freeman, and Patrick J. Sly, Executive Vice President Emerson. U.S Congressman Emanuel Cleaver delivered the keynote address and received the Margaret Bush Wilson Lifetime Achievement Award. President Esther Haywood and the leadership of the St. Louis County NAACP would like to thank the Entire St. Louis Metropolitan region for helping to make this year's Freedom Fund Leadership Dinner the most successful in the Branch's history. Thanks to the region, and our hard working Dinner Chairs-the event was a sale out! The St. Louis County NAACP would like to thank our honorary Chairs Van Simpson, Dr. Dennis Michaelis, Peter Yelkovac, and Randy Weller for their leadership. A few of this year's honorees included Pamela Meanes, Chris King, Wyman, Brian Leonard, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc, The Schnuck Family, and the St. Louis Convention and Visitors Bureau. Thank you for continuing to support America's oldest and largest Civil Rights Organization.

PURSUING LIBERTY IN THE FACE OF INJUSTICE Lt. Gov. Peter Kinder.

Esther Haywood, Betty Thompson, Diane Perry, John Gaskin.

Christian Patterson, Esther Haywood, and John Gaskin III.

Dr. Dennis Michaelis, Andreal Hoosman and Brian Leonard.

President Esther Haywood and Gentry W. Trotter.

Rose Johnson.

Angela Haywood Gaskin.

Rachel Burse, Pamela Meanes, Peter Yelkovac.

Bonita Cornute.

Esther Haywood, Elson Williams, Mike McMillan, and Brian Leonard.

Randy Weller, Kitty Ratcliffe, Stephanie Monroe, and Kathy Osborn.

John Gaskin and Brian Leonard.

Pat Sly, County Executive Steve Stenger, U.S Congressman Emanuel Cleaver, II.

Captain Ron Johnson, Esther Haywood, and Lori Johnson.

Dave Hilliard, Keith Willis, Keat Wilkins.

PURSUING LIBERTY IN THE FACE OF INJUSTICE

Van Simpson, Kathy Osborn and Todd Schnuck.

Mike Murphy, General Manager KMOV-News 4 and Robin Smith.

Rene Knott and Steve Savard.

Randy Weller, Richelle Clark, Mitchelle Price, Van Simpson.

ST. LOUIS AMERICAN • JUNE 18 - 24, 2015

FOP response is empty When I was told that the Fraternal Order of Police had a response to column, I was prepared to read a rigorous defense to my criticisms of the FOP and its divisive role in community-police relations. I was eager to engage in a fact-based debate in the public arena that would either sharpen or deflate the issues of police abuse of authority in the African-American community. Instead, it appears that I got a PR-washed and lawyerscreened statement from Kevin Ahlbrand. Ahlbrand is an influential voice in police matters. A long-time lawman, Ahlbrand is president of the Missouri Fraternal Order of

Police and a detective sergeant in the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department. In the days after Mike Brown’s killing by Ferguson cop Darren Wilson, most people probably don’t remember Governor Jay Nixon stiffening up his spine and demanding a “vigorous prosecution” of the incident. In an uncharacteristic show of emotion, the governor forcefully made a call for justice for Mike’s family. Ahlbrand’s immediate response to this statement was “justice goes both ways,” which carried little meaning and no leadership in one of the region’s most volatile police

situations in modern times. associations were working to He is now a member of the uphold professional standards Ferguson Commission, which when it comes to how police is responsible for making operate in black neighborhoods. changes to the state’s racist and We keep hearing that broken justice system. police are human beings In the FOP leader’s response too; they must make splitto my concerns, second decisions in Ahlbrand chose to the face of “threats.” make corrections on What that means is that my understanding of police can over-react the Blue Alert law and in situations, that they chastised me for not are capable of lying, including all of the stealing and killing. FOP’s mission statement Police are susceptible when comparing its to the same racial, priorities with that of class and homophobic the National Black biases as the general Jamala Police Association. I population. However, Rogers had not included all of these behaviors are the NBPA’s mission more ominous when the statement either. person has a gun on his hip and Ahlbrand never addressed the state authority to use it with the main issues of my column impunity. and that is when and how it Ahlbrand claims that my holds its officers accountable charge of the FOP condoning for its criminal, unethical and illegal or unprofessional immoral assaults on the black behavior by cops is community and the refusal unsubstantiated. “Nothing,” to rid departments of rogue Ahlbrand said, “could be cops. My readers would have farther from the truth.” Here is where he could have have made appreciated some examples his case stronger with examples of how police unions and

A9 of how these law enforcement groups fought for due process for anyone other than police officers. He did not. Neither did Ahlbrand give examples of condemning police behaviors. He would have got my attention had he cited a police group’s response to the Abner Louima case in New York or why 137 bullets had to be fired into a car with two black bodies by Cleveland Officer Michael Brelo. Since Ahlbrand’s response was published, the world has seen a McKinney, Texas cop sitting on a black, female child crying out for her mama. This is the kind of policing that goes on daily in black neighborhoods. I’m still waiting for a police group to expose this incident as an example of inappropriate

policing. I’m still waiting for a local police group to speak to the kiddie porn charges of longtime St. Louis cop and former president of the local police association. I’ve had my own unpleasant encounters with retired police lieutenant Ronald Oldani over the years regarding police brutality. Oldani’s admission to downloading more than 100 files to his computer has led to multiple state and federal charges. My strong recommendation to Kevin Ahlbrand is to stop issuing meaningless statements that don’t get to the roots of police abuse and the subsequent distrust and disrespect of police. I urge him and other heads of police groups to get their own house in order.

E E R F G N I T S E T V I HT SELECT WALGREENS

One in seven people living with HIV is unaware of their status. 1

To learn more about the importance of knowing your status and to find a testing location near you, visit greaterthan.org/Walgreens. * Testing provided by health departments and AIDS organizations. 1. HIV in the United States: At a glance. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Web site. http://www.cdc.gov/hiv/statistics/basics/ataglance.html. Updated March 12, 2015. Accessed March 27, 2015.

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ST. LOUIS AMERICAN • JUNE 18 - 24, 2015

Free help with final college preparation Marvin Bullard Jr. advised other students preparing to attend college in the fall to visit the High School to College Center, 618 N. Skinker Blvd., which engages counselors from 23 area schools and nonprofit organizations over the summer. Last year, 70 percent of students who visited the center made it to classes in the fall.

High School to College Center is open through July 31 American staff Students with college questions find answers at Delmar Loop center Marvin Bullard Jr. graduated from University City high school in May with plans to study computer science at Mineral Area College. “I want to work in computer sciences, maybe computer programming for business,” he said. “It seems fun and there are big opportunities for computer science. You can’t find anything today that doesn’t have to do with computers. I want to be a part of it.” While Bullard has his plans in place, he has questions about how to register for orientation. “I had to do it through this online process, and it was really confusing,” he said. Those questions led Bullard to the St. Louis Graduates High School to College Center in the Delmar Loop. The High School to College Center provides free college counseling to students like Bullard who have college plans in place but have questions in the summer between high school graduation and college enrollment. At the High School to College Center, Bullard was provided with an account to Bridgit, an online program developed by College Bound. The program asks students questions about their college

plans and provides a task list to be completed before students can matriculate. This task list guides counseling sessions at the center, which engages counselors from 23 area schools and nonprofit organizations over the summer. Through Bridgit, Bullard learned that in addition to orientation, he has some things to complete on his FAFSA, the free application for federal student aid that is required for all public and institutional financial assistance. “I knew I had some things to finish on it, but I didn’t realize how serious it was until I came in.” Bullard met with Danielle

n “You can’t find anything today that doesn’t have to do with computers. I want to be a part of it.” – Marvin Bullard Jr.

Washington, program manager at Wyman Center and volunteer at the High School to College Center, who helped him register for orientation and review the course options for his first semester at college. “Marvin intends to use his A+ scholarship to attend Mineral Area College, but he had not completed his FAFSA, which is required to access A+. We walked through what he needs to do to complete that important piece,” said Washington. The High School to College

Center is a community effort to address “summer melt,” the phenomenon where high school graduates fail to matriculate at college as planned because of last-minute challenges the summer after graduation. Summer melt is estimated to affect as many as 40 percent of transitioning high school students, with low-income and first-generation students disproportionately affected. Open for its third summer, the High School to College Center has a track record of assisting students through to college enrollment. Last year, 70 percent of students who visited the center made it to classes in the fall. Support from Monsanto Company, Sigma-Aldrich Corporation, United Way of Greater St. Louis and others enables the High School to College Center to provide students with free assistance from experienced counselors, including financial aid advisors through The Scholarship Foundation of St. Louis. Bullard advised other recent high school graduates to visit the center. “They should definitely come in if they are questioning anything they will do before going to college,” he said. The High School to College Center is located at 618 N. Skinker Blvd. in space provided by Washington University. It will be open through July 31. Hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to noon on Saturdays. Counseling sessions are on a drop-in basis; no appointments are necessary. For more information, visit www. stlouisgraduates.org.

By Melanie Adams

History Clubhouse for children opens June 27 In the History Clubhouse, families visiting the Missouri History Museum will be able to play in four historic places in St. Louis – Downtown, the Mississippi River, the ancient city of Cahokia, and Forest Park.

Missouri History Museum provides new gallery experience for youngest visitors The Missouri History Museum is proud to open its new History Clubhouse for children on Saturday, June 27 at 10 a.m. This free gallery experience allows families to explore historic St. Louis in a space designed specifically for the Museum’s youngest visitors. To get an idea of the wonder that awaits families, I spoke with the exhibition’s content lead, Lindsay Newton, manager of Youth and Family Programs. Lindsay has a Master’s degree in early childhood education and has developed the Museum’s family programs to not only engage young learners but educate them as well. What can a family expect when they visit the History Clubhouse? Lindsay Newton: The History Clubhouse will be like a clubhouse or tree house. It’s a place that is designed specifically for children and families – everything in the space is big, colorful, and hands-on. In the History Clubhouse, families will be able to play in four historic places in St. Louis – Downtown, the Mississippi River, the ancient city of Cahokia, and Forest Park. These will be immersive settings where families can explore at their own pace and let their imaginations run wild, as if they are in their own backyard. How did you decide which areas of the city would go into the Clubhouse? Lindsay Newton: Families helped us decide. From the very beginning, we knew that if we wanted to build a place that was for families, we needed the families to help us build it, and we asked for their input every chance we got. We started with a list of over 25 St. Louis places – everything from the airport to Gaslight Square to the caves that are underneath our city. Hundreds of families who attended programs voted on the list until we narrowed it down. It was important to get places that families liked, but it was also important to choose a variety of locations that lent themselves to many different kinds of playful learning experiences. Isn’t history a hard subject for small children to grasp? How do you make it easier? Lindsay Newton: It’s true, sort of. We know that young children do not fully understand the world around them – they may not wholly grasp the concept of time or “the past” – yet they are equipped with the tools needed to investigate and gain knowledge. We simply need to give them opportunities to explore and try things out for

themselves. Kids have an innate need to figure out how things work, and they learn through play. On top of that, their vivid imaginations are incredibly powerful. They have no problem pretending they are in a different place or that they are a different person; they do it all the time. We have created settings where they can choose how they want to play or explore, and their imaginations transport them to other times and places. The History Clubhouse is a place where parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and all other caregivers will be partners in play and share their knowledge and stories of their own experiences in the past. What do you hope children will take away from their experience in the History Clubhouse? Lindsay Newton: We hope that children take away an understanding of how rich and vibrant their city truly is. In the History Clubhouse, they’ll gain a sense of what it was like to live in St. Louis during many different times throughout the past. They will discover that people in the past lived differently than we do today, but there are also many similarities. St. Louis is a city that has always been changing and will continue to grow and change in different ways. We hope that after families start learning about local history here, they’ll be inspired to get out and explore their community more and to think about what St. Louis will look like in the future. As the content lead on this exhibition, what are you most excited to share with families? Lindsay Newton: I am probably most excited to share real artifacts and high quality artwork with the families. The History Clubhouse is not just a play space; it’s a unique space that’s custom built for playful learning about the city of St. Louis, and it’s full of really special St. Louis things. Families will help build the Wainwright Building with blocks that were designed with the use of a 3D printer to look like the actual building, and kids can even create their own miniature St. Louis skyline with dozens of custom molded St. Louis buildings. In addition to a few especially interesting artifacts sprinkled throughout the space, families will also be playing among dozens of brightly painted murals that were designed just for them by local artists Cbabi Bayoc and Andy Cross. We hope that all of these elements help children gain a sense of pride in their unique community, as well as a sense of belonging.

The History Clubhouse Opens on Saturday, June 27 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day Please check out mohistory.org for opening weekend activities • FREE

ST. LOUIS AMERICAN • JUNE 18 - 24, 2015

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Sheriff releases report on police killing Tamir Rice On Saturday, June 13, Cuyahoga County (Ohio) Prosecutor Timothy J. McGinty released results of the Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Department investigation into the death of 12-year-old Tamir Rice on November 22. Cleveland Police Officer Timothy Loehmann – a rookie on the force – shot and killed the youth outside the Cudell Recreation Center on the West Side of Cleveland, Ohio, responding to a 911 call that someone had a gun in the park. That weapon turned out to be an airsoft gun. The youth died in a hospital the following day. The timing of the tragedy relative to Ferguson is worth pointing out. The St. Louis region was under a State of Emergency on November 22 and had been on edge for weeks, anticipating the St. Louis County Grand Jury decision concerning Ferguson Police Officer Darren Wilson, who shot and killed unarmed 18-year-old Michael Brown Jr. on August 9. That decision came on November 24, two days after the killing of Tamir Rice. Ferguson erupted in arsons and looting. Only two days after that, on November 26, did Cleveland Police release part of a surveillance video that shows the killing of Rice. The video evidence is very different from what Cleveland Deputy Police Chief Ed Tomba had been telling the media, based on his conversations with the then-unnamed police shooter and his partner. Before the video surfaced, police claimed Loehmann and his thenunnamed partner, Officer Frank Garmback, first saw the youth sitting with a group under a gazebo in the park. They said they saw him get up and take what they thought was a pistol from a table and stuff it in his waistband. Police also said that the officers told Rice three times to raise his hands, and that when he reached for what they thought was a gun, he was shot. “But it’s hard to believe that’s possible based on the video,” as the Northeast Media Group, publisher of the Cleveland Plain Dealer, said in a

Photo by Lawrence Bryant

Tamir Rice was one of the many victims of police killings remembered during a Silent March in Downtown St. Louis on December 27.

November 26 editorial. The video, the editorial notes, “shows officers in a cruiser pull up within several feet of Rice, who was not with a group, but by himself underneath a gazebo. Immediately, even before the car stops rolling, the cruiser’s passenger side door opens, an officer emerges and fires at Tamir, who drops to the ground. … The shot that struck Tamir appears to have been fired the very moment the officer stands up after getting out of the car.” The editorial then asked: “Why did the officers drive right up to Tamir? Why didn’t they park further away, climb out of their car and shield themselves with a door or another section of the car, and then order Tamir to drop his weapon?” The editorial ended with a challenge: “the police have a lot of explaining to do.” Indeed, they still do, even after the release of this Sheriff’s Department report. The police did not do much explaining to the investigators. Both Loehmann and Garmback invoked their constitutional right to silence when the target of a criminal investigation. A handful of police officers who responded to the scene on November 22 did speak to Sheriff’s Department investigators – but only after the prosecutor denied them the immunity their lawyer requested. Assistant County Prosecutor Matt

Myers told Sheriff’s Department investigators he was “unwilling to offer the remaining officers any letters [of immunity], stating that they are not facing criminal charges and precedent will not be set in giving letters of immunity (or the like) to officers for doing their job.” Whether or not they coordinated their stories in advance, the cops who testified all stressed that Rice looked much older than 12 – according to the autopsy, he was 5 feet 7 inches and weighed 195 pounds – and that the airsoft gun looked like a real, deadly weapon. “Referring to his vast experience and knowledge with firearms,” the Sheriff’s Department reported, Cleveland Detective Dan Lentz “said the weapon looked a thousand percent (1,000%) real.” This exaggeration is reminiscent of Nigel Tufnel, lead guitarist of the fictional heavy metal band Spinal Tap, who claimed his amplifier was louder because the volume knob went “to 11.” Cleveland Firefighter Patrick Hough, who drove the ambulance that transported the wounded youth to the hospital, raised the only good question about how Loehmann and Garmback responded to the scene. “I remember seeing the police car where it was, which kind of threw me for a loop,” Hough told Sheriff’s Department investigators. “Why was it on the grass?”

The Plain-Dealer editorial writers asked the same question about what appeared to be an extremely dangerous way to respond to someone reported to be armed and dangerous. So surely investigators pursued why this first responder was thrown “for a loop,” in an effort to elicit some possible criticism of the police officer suspect’s conduct? Nope. Sheriff’s Department Detective John Morgan’s response to this critical remark was: “Uh-huh.” It’s an important observation to pursue, because in the light of other testimony, Tamir Rice might be alive today if the police officers had observed him closely, rather than pull right up on him and shoot him within seconds. An unnamed next-door neighbor testified that “even though [Tamir] may not have appeared to be 12 years of age by his size, if you looked close at the way he carried himself and his mannerisms, you could tell that he was a young boy.” It’s no surprise that the detective did not pursue the firefighter for potential criticism of police conduct. This same detective already had coached this same witness on how to evade his questions. “If I ask you a question, and you don’t feel like answering,” Morgan told Hough, “you can, you know, turn to your union rep, you can turn to your chief, or you can just say, ‘I don’t feel like answering,’ and I’ll say, ‘OK.’” Other police witnesses clearly had been coached or already knew to avoid answering any questions that might actually assist the investigators in figuring out if a crime was committed. The person who called 911 about Tamir Rice said that the gun was “probably fake” and that the person with a probably fake gun was “probably a juvenile.” However, Cleveland Police Dispatcher Constance Hollinger did not relay these two crucial qualifications to the police dispatcher who sent police to investigate. Why not? She wouldn’t say. “Hollinger refused (per her attorney) to answer a question about why she did not relay information from the ‘911’ caller about the person with the gun is ‘probably fake’ and ‘probably a juvenile,’” the report states. Perhaps she did not pay attention

closely enough to catch the information. In her 2013 performance evaluation, previously released by the City of Cleveland (but not included in this report), Hollinger’s supervisor commented she “tends to be abrupt, and disconnect the caller when they are attempting to provide additional info.” There is other, additional, new heartbreaking information in this report. The most haunting line comes from an unnamed FBI agent with advanced paramedical training. He was in the area at the time of the shooting and was the first to give the wounded youth medical attention. Loehmann and Garmback managed to call their police union, then tackle and handcuff Tamir Rice’s sister when she arrived at the scene, yet they applied no first aid to the boy. “I began to speak to him” the FBI agent / paramedic described his first aid experience. “He turned over and acknowledged and looked at me, and he like reached for my hand.” In the report, it’s the last time we see the boy alert and alive – reaching for the hand of the first person who tried to save his life. Another line from this report is haunting, when we remember that Tamir Rice and Michael Brown Jr. were not isolated victims, but rather statistics in a disturbing trend that sparked a national protest movement. This line is spoken by a “large older black man” at the rec center on November 22. When he heard the news of the fatal shooting, he said, “They done killed another one of us.” The Cuyahoga County Prosecutor now has the case and will present it to a Cuyahoga County Grand Jury. The assistant prosecutor’s refusal to hand out letters of immunity to cops like candy is one good sign. While not legally binding on the county prosecutor or grand jury, it’s noteworthy that on June 11 Cleveland Municipal Judge Ronald B. Adrine ruled there is probable cause to charge Loehmann with murder, involuntary manslaughter, reckless homicide, negligent homicide and dereliction of duty. He also found probable cause for charges of negligent homicide and dereliction of duty against Garmback. He was ruling on affidavits filed in municipal court by local clergy and activists.

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ST. LOUIS AMERICAN • JUNE 18 - 24, 2015

Business

JUNE 18 – 24, 2015

People on the Move Brigette Davis for has joined the “For the Sake of All” project as program manager. Most recently she was an epidemiology specialist with St. Louis County Department of Brigette Public Health. A graduate of St. Louis Davis Public Schools, she holds a Master’s of Public Health degree from Yale University with an emphasis on chronic disease epidemiology. *******************

Photo by Abby Downs

Sue McCollum, CEO of Major Brands, visiting United Way member agency Mary Ryder Home. She is co-chairing the 2015 United Way of Greater St. Louis fundraising campaign.

Sitherwood, McCollum co-chair campaign

Gas and beverage CEOs bring ‘energy and light’ to United Way’s fundraising efforts Suzanne Sitherwood, CEO of the Laclede Group, visiting United Way member agency Lessie Bates Davis Neighborhood House. She is co-chairing the 2015 United Way of Greater St. Louis fundraising campaign.

By Chris King Of The St. Louis American “I am the energy and she is the spirit of the campaign.” That’s how Suzanne Sitherwood, CEO of the Laclede Group, described her work with Sue McCollum, CEO of Major Brands, in co-chairing the 2015 United Way of Greater St. Louis fundraising campaign. Laclede, of course, is an energy company, and Major Brands is a distributor of beer, wine and spirits. Elegant wit aside, there is substance to the metaphors. Sitherwood is energetically networking with her peers in regional executive business leadership on behalf of United Way. She agreed to personally approach “slightly less than 40” fellow CEOs to seek their commitment to making corporate donations, as well as organizing an employee campaign at their companies. When she spoke to The American on June 11, Sitherwood already had visited “up to 16 or 17” CEOs – all before a campaign goal had been set. McCollum is working right alongside her co-chair, but she can speak to the spirit of the United Way in a personal way. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri is a United Way member agency with

Photo by Natasha Sakovich

perhaps the closest personal touch to her. “When Todd passed away in May 2012 from brain cancer, our kids lost their dad and I really came to reflect

on the importance of mentors in a child’s life,” McCollum said. Her late husband Todd Epsten preceded her as CEO of Major Brands and had been, among many

other civic roles, president of the St. Louis police board. “Their mission particularly See CAMPAIGN, B8

Thompson says proposed cut is too steep, would cost city $1.3M Members of the St. Louis Board of Aldermen are trying to streamline how the city licenses and regulates businesses. But St. Louis’ license collector is strongly opposing some aspects of the legislation, contending it will drain the city’s coffers. Alderman Lyda Krewson, D-28th Ward, and Alderman Scott Ogilvie, D-24th Ward, introduced three bills

n “The policy needs to be reviewed, but not as drastically as reducing the fees 87 percent and making a downfall of $1.3 million to the city.” – License Collector Mavis Thompson

Friday, June 12. The first drops the cost of a one- or two-person business license from $200 to $25. The second

makes it easier for small businesses to get home occupancy waivers. And the third is a massive overhaul of

******************* Benita Arceneaux won the International 2015 Hermes Creative Gold Award and the 2014 MarCom Gold Award. The winning videos were Nita Productions Pro Bono submissions Benita of “The Writing’s Arceneaux On The Wall” and “CWIT: Center For Women In Transition.” She is owner and operator of Nita Productions and former producer and host of “The Benita Show.” ******************* Terrence Harris is the new senior vice president and director of corporate retail sales for Commerce Bank. He will focus on sales strategy and execution for the retail business. He Terrence has over 11 years of Harris banking experience and was director of sales and service for the west territory of PNC spanning six states, 850 branches and 5,000 personnel. ******************* Ebonie Reed has joined Legal Services of Eastern Missouri as staff attorney for the Community Economic Development Program. Reed will be responsible for Ebonie client cases and Reed outreach in the program. Previously she was an attorney at Bryan Cave, LLP and has served as adjunct professor at Washington University School of Law since 2014. *******************

License collector, aldermen clash over license fees

By Jason Rosenbaum & Rachel Lippmann Of St. Louis Public Radio

Jason Williams is a regional recipient of the 2015 Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs Teaching Excellence Award and is now a candidate for Jason the organization’s Williams international teaching award. He is an assistant professor of sport business management in the John E. Simon School of Business at Maryville University.

the city’s business code, eliminating what Krewson called “antiquated” statutes. “The fact is, more and more people are engaged in some sort of self-employment, freelance work, part-time employment possibly outside of their full-time job,” Ogilvie said. “And we don’t want to be overly burdensome on those people who are just trying to earn a living.” See THOMPSON, B2

Hardy Washington Jr. is the new vice president for external relations of the Board of Directors of The Scholarship Foundation of St. Louis. He has worked 24 years Hardy as an insurance Washington agent with State Jr. Farm Insurance and currently serves on the board of advisors of the Kirkwood-Des Peres Chamber of Commerce and the Kirkwood YMCA.

On the move? Congratulations! Send your good professional news and a color headshot to cking@stlamerican. com.

ST. LOUIS AMERICAN • JUNE 18 – 24, 2015

Personal Finance

Your midyear financial checkup By Jason Alderman Setting a few hours aside for a midyear financial checkup in June or July can help you review how you’re doing with savings, investing, spending and debt. It can give you the opportunity to spot irregularities and adjust your budget well in advance of year-end. If you already work with a qualified financial or tax advisor, consider discussing this review process with them so they can guide you to any specific money issues you should be tracking. Start by requesting at least one of your three credit reports. The idea is to make sure your credit balances are accurate and to check closely for any irregularities that might signal identity theft. Federal law requires that each of the major credit agencies – Experian, Equifax and TransUnion – give you your most recent credit reports for free (https://www. annualcreditreport.com/index. action) once a year. If you discover unusual charges or accounts you didn’t open, alert your advisors, take any steps they recommend and otherwise follow the U.S. Federal Trade Commission’s step-by-step identity theft guide (http://www.consumer. ftc.gov/features/feature-0014identity-theft) to help you take action. Remember to stagger receipt of each of your credit reports throughout the year so you have the opportunity to catch potential irregularities every few months. Next, turn to your budget or start one if you’ve never made one before. The midyear

THOMPSON Continued from B1

“The graduated business license tax in some instances is just the most regressive tax people are going to face,” he added. “Because it’s not scaled to your revenue or your income. It’s just a flat $200 fee.” St. Louis License Collector Mavis Thompson, whose office collects license fees, opposes Krewson’s and Ogilvie’s

Business Opinion

How to structure a minority contractor loan fund By Eric E. Vickers For The St. Louis American

review should focus on whether adjustments can be made to save or invest more or pay off more debt if more money is coming in from a raise or other resources. If spending is up by midyear, it’s always important to know why and whether funds can be reallocated to better purpose. Review your retirement and whether you’re maximizing your contributions at work or in your own personal retirement accounts. Those who reach age 50 by the end of the calendar year will be able to take advantage of additional catch-up contribution allowances to beef up their balances as they approach retirement. Midyear is also a good time to check the adequacy of one’s emergency fund (http:// www.practicalmoneyskills. com/calculators/emergency). Emergency funds help keep

you from tapping your credit or savings balances in a sudden cash emergency. The amount of money you keep in your emergency fund should fit your needs, but consider a balance of four to seven months of everyday expenses in case there’s a short-term job loss or an emergency repair. Consider keeping a year-round list of potential home, car or personal expenses and decide whether your emergency fund is adequate or you might need to set up other savings accounts to address bigger needs. Make sure your tax withholding levels are correct. This is particularly important if your income has changed during the first six months of the year and you might be closing in on a higher or lower tax bracket. Consult your tax advisor for assistance, and the IRS features its own

withholding calculator (http:// www.irs.gov/Individuals/IRSWithholding-Calculator) to help you decide. Finally, make sure all your recordkeeping is up to date. Midyear is a good time to look over all your spending, saving and investment records to make sure all the numbers add up and underlying paperwork is in order. Also consider online banking, investing and bill payment as a way to save more time and money. Bottom line: Taking a midyear break to review your finances gives you a thoughtful opportunity to spot errors, adjust your budget and save on taxes.

efforts. At a press conference on Friday, Thompson said slashing the one-to-two person business license fee from $200 to $25 would cost the city around $1.3 million. She emphasized that business license funds help pay for important city services, including police and fire departments, streets and the St. Louis Zoo. “The statute says that all businesses have to be licensed,” Thompson said. “It’s a way of safeguarding the public. I don’t disagree that the policy for

[one-to two-person businesses] needs to be reviewed but not as drastically as reducing the fees 87 percent and making a downfall of $1.3 million to the city. I do believe that the policy needs to be revisited – but not this extreme.” Thompson said she wasn’t consulted about the legislation – except for when Krewson sent copies of the bills to her office earlier this week. “I need to be consulted, so I can give my input,” Thompson said. “Who knows best but the license collector who actually

sits and holds the office – and does the work every day?” Asked about Thompson’s concerns regarding the reduction in business license fees, Krewson said: “We don’t want to run the city on the backs of small businesses.”

Jason Alderman directs Visa’s financial education programs. To Follow Jason Alderman on Twitter: www. twitter.com/PracticalMoney.

Disclosure: One of the authors of this story, Jason Rosenbaum, paid for a oneperson business license in 2011 and 2012 in St. Louis. Edited for length and reprinted with permission from news.stlpublicradio.org.

I read in The American about the establishment of the $10 million minority contractor loan fund. Congratulations to all involved. I know from talks with principals that many have been working diligently on this for some time, so I am glad to see it come to fruition. I have been involved in a lot of conversations about what it seems to take for a minority firm to succeed in this tough and discriminatory business environment. And with the establishment of this loan fund I want to share some thoughts on the criteria that should be used in lending. I noticed in the article that this fund will have a “relaxed qualifying criteria,” which hopefully means that lack of collateral or credit scores will not be a barrier. First, I would concentrate on second- and third-generation minority firms. Business success requires mistakes, and I see many sound second- and third-generation Eric E. minority contractors who have Vickers learned from the mistakes of their parents. Also, they tend to be more educated about business and management, as the first generation consisted of the skilled craftsmen rather than back office managers. Second, I would look to do contract financing, using contracts as the collateral for loans. I have not seen banks in Missouri do this, though I have seen banks in Illinois do a very effective job of lending on the basis of contracts. Third, I would ask for references. The construction industry here is one where everyone pretty much knows each other. So you can find out from other contractors whether a contractor is reliable, does good work, and has integrity in how they operate their business. Fourth, require that they have a short-term and long-term strategic plan for their business. Minority firms are generally so caught up in a week-to-week survival mode that they don’t have time or the inclination to focus on the big picture of where they want their business to be five to 10 years from now. So let the loan allow them the opportunity and space to be able to think ahead. Finally, make support services and resources available as part of the loan. Having that accounting, management and legal infrastructure in place is both vital to them being able to service the loan and to grow their business. Vickers is a St. Louis attorney and minority inclusion advocate.

Sports

n “I’m the best player in the world.” – LeBron James

INSIDE

Is STL an NFL city? The Rams’ Kevin Demoff isn’t so sure. ~ See page B5 ~ B3

JUNE 18 – 24, 2015

Track & Field Notebook

Inside Sports

With Earl Austin Jr.

Track stars

Medals from New Mexico

Local athletes win big at Great Southwest Classic

John Moten (right) of John Burroughs represents the 2015 St. Louis American All-Area Track and Field Team in the 100meter dash.

2015 St. Louis American All-Area Track and Field Team

By Earl Austin Jr. Of The St. Louis American

Another exciting season of track and field has come and gone. As usual, there were some tremendous performances provided by the athletes from the St. Louis metro area. With that in mind, it is time to celebrate the 2015 St. Louis American AllArea Track and Field Team. Here are the members of the All-Area Track Team as listed by their event.

Boys

100-meter dash: John Moten (John Burroughs) 200-meter dash: Keveion Akins (Cahokia) 400-meter dash: Roosevelt Davis (East St. Louis) 800-meter run: Wes Schoenthal (Edwardsville) 1,600-meter run: Alec Haines (Lafayette) 3,200-meter run: Austin Hindman (Lafayette) 110-meter high hurdles:

William Session (Belleville East) 300-meter intermediate hurdles: Tommy Leonard (Eureka) Long Jump: Ja’Mari Ward (Cahokia) Triple Jump: Ja’Mari Ward (Cahokia) Shot Put: Michael Slater (Parkway Central) Discus: Ricky Nelson (Belleville West) High Jump: Anthony McRoberts (Cahokia) Pole Vault: Bryce Tognozzi (Lafayette)

Photo by Wiley Price

Several of the area’s top track and field athletes competed at the Great Southwest Classic in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Athletes from St. Louis competed for Team Missouri while the Metro East athletes were competing for Team Illinois. The area was represented quite well, as many brought home medals. Cahokia High’s Ja’Mari Ward was one of the top area individuals at the meet. Ward won the long jump with a leap of 25 feet 4 inches. He was also second in the triple jump with a distance of 50 feet 8 inches. Ward led the Comanches to their fifth consecutive Illinois Class 2A state championship. On the girls’ side, Brentwood High standout Sophie Rivera won the shot put and javelin throws. She was also third in the discus. LaJarvia Brown of Alton won the triple jump with an effort of 40 feet 8 ½ inches. Earl Jasmine Barge of McCluer Austin Jr. North finished second in the 100-meter high hurdles and 300-meter low hurdles. Barge led McCluer North to the Missouri Class 5 state championship. Maya Cody of Lutheran South finished second in the 200-meter dash and third in the 100. Saenea Williams of Westminster finished fourth in the 100 and 200. The 4x200-meter relay team of Barge, Cody, Williams and Kamira Franklin finished in second play in a quick time of 1 minute 38.78 seconds. Donovan Franklin signs

4x100-meter relay: Cahokia (Marquis Murray, Keveion Akins, Chrishawn Crosby, Ja’Mari Ward) 4x200-meter relay: Cahokia (Marquis Murray, Ja’Mari Ward, Chrishawn Crosby, Keveion Akins) 4x400-meter relay: East St. Louis (Deonte Anderson, Roosevelt Davis, Kevin Johnson, Keonte Pearson) 4x800-meter relay: Lafayette

O’Fallon High basketball standout Donovan Franklin has signed with Gulf Coast State Junior College in Panama City, Florida. The 6’5” Franklin was a member of the St. Louis American “Fab Five” Boys All-Star Team as a senior in 2015. Franklin averaged 21 points, 7.7 rebounds and three assists a game. He finished his career as O’Fallon’s career scoring leader. Franklin was named the Most Valuable Player at last weekend’s Illinois Basketball Coaches Association All-Star Game. He scored 19 points to lead the South All-Stars to a victory over the North All-Stars. STL Women’s Alumni hoops Come watch some competitive basketball and re-live some special memories at the

See TRACK, B4

See INSIDE, B5

In The Clutch With Ishmael Sistrunk

Iguodala, Curry season Warriors championship

All season long the Golden because the victory was not State Warriors proved they easy. Cleveland started the were the best team in basseries with one All-Star Kevin ketball. Though the deep and Love on the sidelines and talented team stormed to a trewatched another, Kyrie Irving, mendous 67-15 record join him soon thereduring the regular seaafter. Still, after three son, questions still lingames the Cavs found gered as the Warriors themselves up 2-1 on entered the playoffs. the back of LeBron Is Stephen Curry James and the heart really that good? Can and hustle of Tristan a jump shooting team Thompson. Actually, win the NBA title? Can the entire Cavaliers the boys from the Bay team seemed to be playIshmael H. ing harder. They wanted beat the best player on Sistrunk the planet? Well, the it more. They seemingly Warriors cast all doubt emerged off the floor aside, passed the pop quiz and with every loose ball and were popped the bubbly as they greedy on the boards. defeated LeBron James and Random basketball extra Matthew Dellavedova the Cleveland Cavaliers in six received well-deserved praise games. With the victory the Warriors earned the franchise’s and adulation for his fantastic full-court defense of Curry, first NBA championship in 40 but it would be short lived. years. During the final quarter of I used the word ‘earned’

Stephen Curry, Andre Iguodala and the Golden State Warriors rose to the occasion to prove beyond a shadow of a doubt, the best team in the NBA resides in the Bay.

the Warriors’ 96-91 Game 3 loss, a light bulb went off in

Curry’s head. The reigning league MVP realized that

if he attacked on the offensive end and put pressure on

n It took James nearly 33 shots per game to average just a hair under 36 points. That is certainly not a model of efficiency.

Dellavedova instead of allowing Delly to pressure him, it would open up the offense for Curry and his teammates. Through those first three games, the Warriors never scored more than 100 points in regulation. After Game 3, the Warriors never scored less than 100. It was fascinating to watch See CLUTCH, B5

ST. LOUIS AMERICAN • JUNE 18 – 24, 2015

Eagles make top national tourney By Earl Austin Jr. Of The St. Louis American The St. Louis Eagles Basketball Club 17U boys’ team is one of the best in the summer grassroots circuit. Comprised of many of the top players in the St. Louis metro area, the Eagles have qualified for the prestigious Nike EYBL Peach Jam, which is the top national tournament on the summer circuit. The Peach Jam will take place from July 15-19 in North Augusta, n This S.C. marks To qualify the third for the Peach St. Louis Jam, the Eagles had to Eagles’ navigate their team to way through qualify the ultrafor the competitive Nike Elite Peach Youth Jam Basketball since the League, which EYBL consists of 40 Nike-sponsored formed six years teams from around the ago. country. The Eagles finished EYBL play with a 13-4 record and won a division title, thus punching their ticket to the Peach Jam with 23 other teams. Most of the team members are holding current offers from several NCAA Division I programs. The star-studded Eagles team is led by 6’9” AllAmerican Jayson Tatum of Chaminade. Tatum spent much of the season as the No. 1 ranked player in the Class of 2016. He is currently ranked No. 2 in the latest national rankings. Tatum averaged 19.4 points and eight rebounds in EYBL play. He also led the league in free throw shooting. Tatum heads a front line that

17U basketball team heads to Nike EYBL Peach Jam

All-American Jayson Tatum of Chaminade College Prep will lead the St. Louis Eagles 17U basketball team into next month’s Nike EYBL Peach Jam in North Augusta, S.C. in July.

Photo by Lawrence Bryant

is one of the most imposing in the EYBL. At power forward is 6’8” Tyler Cook of Chaminade. Cook averaged 9.4 points and 4.8 rebounds in league play while leading the team in field goal percentage. The starting

center is 6’10” Jeremiah Tillmon of East St. Louis, who is ranked one of the top 20 players in the Class of 2017. Tillmon averaged 7.9 points and 4.8 rebounds. There is even more size

at shooting guard in the form of 6’5” Xavier Sneed of Hazelwood Central. The athletic wing player averaged 7.7 points a game in league play. Running the show at point guard is 5’8” Jordan Barnes of CBC, who averaged 7.8 points while leading the team in 3-point shooting. Athletic swingman Jordan Goodwin from Belleville Althoff was called up to the Eagles 17U team from its 16U team and has made an immediate impact with his energy and intensity. The 6’3” Goodwin averaged 7.7 points and was second on the team in rebounding at 5.6 per game. More Class of 2016

standouts on the team include 6’2” guard Christian Willis of CBC, 6’10” center Will Gladson of Chaminade and 5’8” guard Xavier Bishop of Springfield (Ill) Lanphier. Willis is a slashing guard who plays with great drive while Gladson is a post player with a nice shooting touch out to the 3-point line. The diminutive Bishop is an explosive scorer with great shooting range. Rounding out the squad are some excellent prospects from the Class of 2017. Guard Alonzo Verge, Jr. is a flashy combo guard from the Chicago area. Point guard David Sloan comes from Louisville. He is one of the prospects

TRACK

in the state of Kentucky. Swingman Reggie Crawford of Chaminade is a 6’4” athlete who plays hard and makes open 3-pointers. This marks the third St. Louis Eagles’ team to qualify for the Peach Jam since the EYBL formed six years ago. The 2010 Eagles teams advanced to the championship game and played on national television. They were led by current National Basketball Association players Bradley Beal, Ben McLemore and current Butler University standout Roosevelt Jones. The 2013 Eagles also qualified for the Peach Jam and won share of their pool title.

Long jumper and triple jumper Ja’Mari Ward of Cahokia.

Continued from B3 (Alec Haines, Alvin Houston, Austin Hindman, Dylan Quisenberry) Girls 100-meter dash: Maya Cody (Lutheran South) 200-meter dash: Kamira Franklin (McCluer SouthBerkeley) 400-meter dash: Mariya Hudson (Cahokia) 800-meter run: Hannah Long (Eureka) 1,600-meter run: Hannah Long (Eureka) 3,200-meter run: Anna West (Lafayette) 100-meter high hurdles: Jasmine Barge (McCluer North) 300-meter low hurdles: Jasmine Barge (McCluer North)

Long Jump: Rayneisha Lewis (Cahokia) Triple Jump: LaJarvia Brown (Alton) Shot Put: Sophie Rivera (Brentwood) Discus: Cecilya Johnson (Lutheran South) High Jump: Alicia Moellering (Villa Duchesne) Pole Vault: Dominique Meyer (Francis Howell North) 4x100-meter relay: O’Fallon (Kersten Douglas, Tamya

Houston, Nautica Lockett, Mya Watson-Blake) 4x200-meter relay: Kirkwood (Jocelyn Payne, Kara Steele, Hava Turner, Andrea Kuehnlein) 4x400-meter relay: Kirkwood (Jocelyn Payne, Kara Steele, Hava Turner, Andrea Keuehlein) 4x800-meter relay: Eureka (Ranna Safi, Andria Diana Staicu, Faith Reynolds, Hannah Long)

ST. LOUIS AMERICAN • JUNE 18 – 24, 2015

Rams Roundup

INSIDE

With Palmer L. Alexander III

Is STL an NFL city?

Rams Exec VP Kevin Demoff isn’t sure The St. Louis Rams organization is sending mixed signals to the people of St. Louis. I’m not referring to Head Coach Jeff Fisher or GM Les Snead. I’m not referring to the staffers and the people who work in community services like Nicole Woodie. I’m Palmer L. talking about Alexander Kevin Demoff, executive vice president of football operation. Demoff has a tough job. For starters, his boss is Stan Kroenke. And Stan has demonstrated through this entire stadium process that St. Louis is not worthy of keeping the Rams and they should play in Los Angeles. When Michelle Smallman asked Demoff, “Is STL an NFL city?” Demoff answered, “I hope we can continue to make this an NFL market. There is a really good core fan base here.” He still didn’t answer the question about St. Louis being

CLUTCH Continued from B3

James try to will his team to victory. His stat lines were jaw dropping. King James finished the series with averages of 35.8 points, 13.3 rebounds and 8.8 assists. Those numbers are otherworldly. However, James had to work extremely hard for every one of those points, assists and boards, especially when Andre Iguoldala was on the call. Iggy ensured that nearly all of James’ shots were heavily contested. Despite the big numbers, James shot a paltry 39.8% from the field during the series. By comparison, Klay Thompson, who by all accounts had a subpar Finals, shot 40.9% from the field. It took James nearly 33 shots per game to average just a hair under 36 points. That is certainly not a model of efficiency. Iguodala essentially snatched the defensive pest baton from Dellavedova and anchored his team all the way to the championship. That’s why I believe that Iguodala was absolutely the right selection for Finals MVP. I never bought into the James MVP talk. Without him, his team surely would have lost, but guess what? With him, his team still lost. While Curry led the team in stats and SportsCenter-worthy plays, Iguodala simply led the team.

The St. Louis Rams Kevin Demoff (right), executive vice president of football operation, with Rams owner Stan Kroenke.

an NFL city or not. It’s a yes or no question. If you ask attorney Bob Blitz that same question, it’s an emphatic yes. Can’t say the same about Demoff. During his interview with Smallman, Demoff actually

said, “People think Stan doesn’t care, but he cares significantly. To say he’s removed from the process this year is totally untrue.” You don’t need Maury Povich to tell you that is a lie. Stan only cares about one

thing. And it’s has nothing to do with winning. Was Stan thinking about the Rams coaches and staffers laying new sod at the Herbert Hoovers Boys and Girls Club in 90-plus degree heat? Was he thinking about the community

Every single game, Iguodala was the heart and soul of his squad. He pushed the tempo when his Warriors teammates seemed too timid. He attacked the basket when nobody else would. He came up with key steals and defensive stops when the Warriors needed them. Though his Finals stat line of 16.3 points, 5.8 rebounds, 4 assists and 1.3 steals may seem pretty regular, in the words of Dick Vitale, Iguodala was the “glue guy.” If Steve Kerr hadn’t

replaced overmatched center Andrew Bogut in the starting lineup with Iguodala after Game 3, the city of Cleveland may very well be celebrating one of the biggest Finals upsets in recent history. Though Iguodala was the MVP, Curry was still the chef. It’s a bit disrespectful that Curry didn’t receive a single vote for Finals MVP. Though there’s a huge sentiment that he struggled through half the series, Curry finished with averages of 26 points, 6.3

assists, 5.2 rebounds and 1.8 steals per game. He only scored less than 20 points once (Game 2) and shot a respectable 44.3% from the field. Of course, Game 5 was his signature performance where he dropped 37 and seemed to get better as the degree of difficulty rose. Curry decisively ended any notion that Dellavedova’s defensive success was anything more than an aberration (at worst)

that has stood by this team, regardless of the fact they haven’t produced a winning season in going on 13 seasons? No. The same day as the Rams made their way to Herbert Hoovers, I read a tweet from Vincent Bonsignore from the LA Daily News: “#Rams also stressing willing participants helping #Chargers and #Raiders secure financially beneficial new stadiums and futures.” Whoa! Whoa! Whoa! So now Stan is willing to help two other teams with financing, but you can’t help out the STL Task Force? Stop lying to the folks buying tickets and $15 beers. Kroenke helped take the Rams out of LA, but he’s willing to move the Rams back. For one reason only, money. It’s only about money to Kroenke. Nothing wrong with that at all, just say it. For more Rams Roundup, subscribe to youtube.com/ stlamericanvideo. Follow us @StLAmerican and @ thelegendkil.

or a speed bump (at best). In the clincher, Cleveland double-teamed Curry on every single pick and roll and he made them pay almost every time. He shredded the defense with his deft ball handling and precise passing. Like they’ve done all season long, his teammates rewarded him by knocking down shots. The team’s tremendous depth ensured that whenever

Continued from B3

Second Annual PHL ‘n” STL Women’s Alumni Basketball Games. The four games will be held on Saturday, July 11 at Clyde Miller Career Academy (1000 N. Grand). The first game will feature Gateway Tech vs. Vashon at noon. It will be followed by Miller Career Academy vs. Metro at 1:15 p.m. Beaumont will face Wellston at 2:30 p.m. with Hazelwood East vs. Jennings closing things down at 3:45 p.m. Admission for the event is $3 with all proceeds going to support girls’ basketball camps in the city. Volunteers and team donations are also being sought to support the event. For more information, please contact Sherman Curtis at (314) 732-6908. Surge home game Saturday The St. Louis Surge opened its home season with an 84-80 victory over the Nebraska Strikers in Women’s Blue Chip Basketball League action at the University of MissouriSt. Louis last Saturday night. The Surge improved to 5-1 with the victory. The Surge return to action on Saturday evening when they host the Minnesota Black Ice at the Mark Twain Building. Tipoff is at 7:05 p.m.

one player struggled, another was waiting in the wings to make an impact. While James tried to put the Cavs on his back and carry them to a title, the Warriors players lifted up their superstar and proved beyond a shadow of a doubt, the best team in the NBA resides in the Bay. Follow Ishmael and In the Clench on Twitter @ IshmaelSistrunk

ST. LOUIS AMERICAN • JUNE 18 – 24, 2015

Celebrations FREE OF CHARGE

Golden Anniversary

Birthdays The family of Ernest and Barbara Jean Nashville wish them a happy 85th and 80th birthday. Ernest is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha and a former musician, as well as a retiree from St. Louis Public Schools. Jean worked as a school teacher, then retired as a reservation specialist for TWA. Jean’s birthday was June 11 and Ernest will celebrate his on July 23. Happy Birthday to Zion Thomas (left), celebrating her 2nd Birthday on June 29 and Erin Danfort, celebrating her 1st Birthday, June 17. Our gifts from God and blessings to our family. We love you! From: PawPaw Perry and Nana Amber Cole

Reunions All reunion announcements can be viewed online! Beaumont High School Class of 1965 will celebrate their 50th Class Reunion on September 26, 2015 at the Royale Orleans, 2801 Telegraph. Dinner dance with open bar is $65/person. For additional information contact Geraldine Carter-Reid at 314868-8284 or bluejackets65@ gmail.com. Beaumont High School class

of 1975 is in the planning process for its 40th year reunion! Reunion dates: August 14-16, 2015, contact: Gale (314) 838-8493 or Cynthia (314) 869-4049. Berkeley High School Class of 1990 25th Reunion, July 24-26, 2015. Contact Alisa at 314-614-4972, sonshyne2n1@ yahoo.com or Shonte’ at 314341-7734, harmonyoung@ aol.com. Please look on our Facebook: Berkeley Sr. High Alumni Class of the 90’s. Gateway High School class of 1995 will host its 20th class reunion July 24-26, 2015. Individual registration is $55 ($90 for couples). Visit Gateway Class of 1995/20yr Reunion on Facebook for more details. Deadline to register is

June 30, 2015. Kinloch High School Alumni Association will host a Kinloch Reunion Dinner Dance on July 24, 2015 at the Catering to You banquet center, Florissant Mo. For more information, please contact Arlene Owens Davis at 314792-0659, Lester Wilson at 314-863-2180, Reuben Melton at 314-239-5202, Mc McKinnies at 314-5240126 or Darryl Henderson at hendodh@sbcglobal.net. Northwest High School Class of 1973 has planned a 60th Birthday Bash for September 5, 2015 at the Renaissance St. Louis Airport Hotel. If you have not received an email with

Rev. William and Mrs. June Ross Martin will celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary on June 19, 2015. They are the proud parents of two children, Junena Martin and Wineka Martin, and three grandchildren. Mrs. Martin is originally from North Little Rock, AR and is a retired principal in the Wellston School District. Rev. Martin is retired as a band instructor in Wellston School District and is now an Associate Minister at People’s Community Christian Church. They met while attending Lincoln University in Jefferson City, MO.

the details, please email northwesths1973@gmail. com or contact Cornelia Clark Stephens 314-580-1114. Soldan High Class of 1964 will be celebrating its 51st reunion on August 28-30, 2015 at the Airport Marriott Hotel. For more information, please contact; John Bennett at 314503-3541, George Gholston at 314- 831-1801 or DeOnne Hudson at deonne1024@ comcast.net. Soldan High School Class of 75, 40th Reunion Celebration, September 11-13, 2015, Contact: Terese ColeMarshall, (314) 640 9611 or AnnieSue Preston (314) 606 5618, Email: Soldanclass75@ gmail.com.

Sumner Class of ‘76, 40th Class Reunion Announcement, Meeting Dates and Location: Thursdays, June 25, July 23 and August 20, 2015, 6-8:30 p.m., as needed at the St. Louis County Library Natural Bridge Branch (Small Meeting Room), 7606 Natural Bridge Rd., StL 63121. For questions or to leave current contact info, please contact B. Louis at 314.385.9843 or email: sumnerclassof76@yahoo.com. Vashon Class of 1970, 45th Reunion, July 24-26, 2015, Renaissance Hotel - St Louis Airport, Send $75 payment now: Vashon Class of 1970, P. O. Box 300519, St. Louis, MO 63130. Contact: Rose Mary Wilson 314-327-9521 or Wayne Mason 314-401-6416.

Do you have a celebration you’re proud of? If so we would like to share your good news with our readers. Whether it’s a birth, graduation, wedding, engagement announcement, anniversary, retirement or birthday, send your photos and a brief announcement (50 words or less) to us and we may include it in our paper and website – AT NO COST – as space is available. Photos will not be returned. Send your announcements to: kdaniel@stlamerican. com or mail to: St. Louis American Celebrations c/o Kate Daniel 2315 Pine St. St. Louis, MO 63103

Reunion notices are free of charge and based on space availability. We prefer that notices be emailed to us! However, notices may also be sent by mail to: Kate Daniel, 2315 Pine St., St. Louis, MO 63103 Deadline is 10 a.m. on Friday. If you’d like your class to be featured in a reunion profile, email or mail photos to us. Our email address is:

reunions@ stlamerican.com

Religion

ST. LOUIS AMERICAN • JUNE 18 - 24, 2015

Juneteenth celebrated with gospel in park Centennial Choir performed at last year’s Juneteenth celebration in Fountain Park. This weekend’s events conclude Sunday, June 21 with morning worship services in Fountain Park from 10:30 a.m. 12:30 p.m. and a Gospel Explosion at 3 p.m.

Plus, Second Baptist Church of Kinloch celebrates second pastoral anniversary American staff The Neighbors of Fountain Park, in collaboration with Centennial Church, will host its fourth annual Juneteenth Community Awareness Celebration on June 19-21 in Fountain Park. The Neighbors’ of Fountain Park, mission is to empower, educate and connect the community to resources. Juneteenth is the oldest known celebration commemorating the ending of slavery in the United States. Juneteenth was mainly celebrated in Texas. In recent decades, communities across the nation have adopted the holiday. The weekend activities begin with an evening filled with entertainment, guest speakers and a movie in the park Friday, June 19 from 5-7 p.m. On Saturday, June 20, the day will be filled with community education booths, children activities, entertainment, free food and a bike show. A peace walk will kick off the event from 1-7 p.m. Sunday, June 21 is the Father’s Day Tribute and Celebration. On this day, Centennial Christian Church will hold morning worship services in Fountain Park from 10:30 a.m. 12:30 p.m. and free gifts will be given to all fathers. A Gospel Explosion will take place at 3 p.m. in the park. The Fountain Park

Neighborhood is located in the City of St. Louis with Martin Luther King on the north, Delmar on the south, Walton on the east and Kingshighway on the west. It is just two blocks from the famous Central West End of the city. The Fountain Park neighborhood is known for its stately houses, shopping and diversity. Contact Clint Potts, chairman of Neighbors of Fountain Park, at 314-324-8440 or cpottssped@ yahoo.com.

Pastoral anniversary in Kinloch The public is invited to worship with the Second Baptist Church of Kinloch as members and friends come together to celebrate in grand style the 2nd Pastoral Anniversary of Rev. and Mrs. Alfred Washington during the weekend of June 27-28. At this time the church will pay special tribute to Pastor as “a pastor with a servant’s heart – II Chronicles 31:21. Pastor Washington is the 14th pastor of Second Baptist Church of Kinloch that earlier this

Rev. Alfred and First Lady Agnes Washington month observed its 101st church anniversary. The celebration begins with an Appreciation Luncheon for First Lady Agnes Washington 3 p.m. Saturday, June 27 at the church on 5508 Rev. Dr. Earl Miller St. in Kinloch. The First

Lady’s Luncheon Committee is preparing for an entourage of beautiful first ladies and friends from area churches. The celebration continues on Sunday, June 28 with a dynamic service at 10 a.m. and powerful message by the Rev. Brian Jackson, pastor of First Baptist Church of Elmwood Park returning for the second year as the morning anniversary messenger. After the morning service there will be fine dining on the lower level with plenty of food for everyone. Sunday afternoon at 3 p.m., the celebration continues with a spirit-filled Pastor Anniversary Worship Experience. Speaker of the hour is the Rev. Jeffrey Grimes, pastor of Midwestern Baptist Church. This service will include greetings from community leaders, presentation of gifts from Second Baptist Ministries, special music by the SBC Praise Team, SBC Choir, and the Anointed By Christ Ministry, a group of gifted young Christian singers. For additional information, contact Erma at ereid1201@ sbcglobal.net or (314) 965-8582.

The Message

Who are your friends? “Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.” Proverbs 27:6. This is an effort to get you to define who your friends really are. Who is it that you can absolutely depend on? I believe that you can determine this more in difficult circumstances than in situations where life is good and things are going well. The Bible is full of chapters and verse about friendship even unto death, if you can believe that. According to the Bible friends love each other, do not forsake each other, and more than anything a friend can be trusted. Even when a friend criticizes you, he or she is doing so to help, protect, build you up and correct you when they and you know you are dead wrong. When all hell is breaking loose in your life, will your friends pray with you? Pray for you? Will your friends suggest maybe you ought to have a talk with the Lord? Will he or she let you know where the answer lies for whatever ails you? Addiction? Greed? Pride? Promiscuity? Whatever? Even Job’s “fickled” friend knew where he should turn. “But if I were you, I would appeal to God; I would lay my cause before Him. He performs wonders that cannot be fathomed, miracles that cannot be counted.” Job 5: 8-9. Now whatever you think about the motives of Job’s friends, you got to give Columnist them credit for knowing where to seek James help. Which one of your so-called friends Washington will point you in the right direction? I pray you have several, although one will surely do. I can’t help but be reminded of Christ and the paralytic. Mark 2. Jesus heals the paralytic. I’m just moved to point out verse 5. “When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, Son, your sins are forgiven.” This is mindboggling to me. Jesus healed somebody because his friends had faith. Can you believe that? The folk you hang out with may not be the folk who have faith in you. But the people who have faith, the ones who will take you and your problems to the Lord, are the ones He listens to. often times on your behalf. Now I do not know about you but, these are the kind of friends I need. I also believe I have a couple in my life, and I am very thankful for them. Can you identify those in yours? No one should go through life without a friend who will pray for you if not with you and let you know that’s what you should be doing also. Mark 2 just lets us know that God pays attention to such things and values such friends. Their love for you acknowledges their faith in Him, and I think He welcomes them for their faith and you for bringing it out in them. Now that’s something to shout about.

CAMPAIGN Continued from B1

resonates with me now, but frankly it always did, and certainly did for Todd before he got sick,” McCollum said of Big Brothers Big Sisters. “Todd was a big brother, then a board member, then chairman of the board. He was involved from his twenties on until he passed away.” Their entire family got involved with the organization, and encouraged Major Brands employees to get involved. Indeed, leadership in philanthropy is nothing new to McCollum. She knows this stuff like she knows beer, wine and spirits. So she knows what to expect from a United Way of Greater St. Louis campaign. “Suzanne and I are fortunate to be trying to raise money in the St. Louis region, in a community that is very generous – always has been, and I believe always will be,” McCollum said. Last year, United Way’s campaign was chaired by Scott Schnuck, chairman of the board of Schnuck Markets, Inc. Mike DeCola, CEO of HBM Holdings, served as co-chair. It was United Way’s most successful campaign, surpassing its $72.5 million goal. Sitherwood is much newer to St. Louis, giving her the advantage of being a fresh “ask” for funding commitments

ST. LOUIS AMERICAN • JUNE 18 – 24, 2015 – and giving the networking required of her role a special value to her. “I have been here three and a half years, so this is perfect timing,” Sitherwood said. “I have been here long enough to meet a lot of executives, but I haven’t been to their home office or campus to really get an experience of their corporate culture.” Given her role in the United Way campaign, she

n “I have been here three and a half years, so this is perfect timing.” – Suzanne Sitherwood, Laclede Group CEO

is eager to learn about how other executives integrate philanthropic commitments into their corporate culture. Sitherwood is finding herself playing a cross-pollinator role, picking up ideas for employee campaigns as she goes and sharing them with other CEOs down the line. “I am getting to connect in ways that I otherwise would be unable to,” Sitherwood said. “Part of that experience is going to various businesses, asking how they would like to engage this year, how they go about it in their culture with their employees. So I get a lot of ideas to spread around.” Not that the 30-year veteran

of the energy industry is a newcomer to philanthropic commitment. She said she first got involved with the United Way when she was 24. Given the business she is in, she has grown particularly appreciative and supportive of United Way for its 211 phone system. “People know about 911 for emergencies, but 211 was created as a number for people with dire needs who do not know where to go,” Sitherwood said. “It’s for people who are about to lose their home, people with child issues – or people who can’t pay their gas bill.” She said the 211 system “brings together all the available support systems,” which is to say, all of the United Way member agencies. It is quite a range, as the co-chairs are seeing in doing tours of them. “On any given day, you can begin at Almost Home – which serves very young women, ages 10 to 20, who are having babies – addressing the needs of two generations, very young people and people about to be born,” McCollum said, “then end at Mary Ryder Home, serving people 65 years and older. You really see the scope of the United Way and how it touches every generation.” Her co-chair Sitherwood summed it up: “The United Way plays a huge part in how we help people.” For more information about the campaign, visit www.stl. unitedway.org.

Financial Focus By Veronica Coleman – AAMS

What are your excuses for not investing? We all make excuses. Most of the time, they’re pretty harmless. But you could be hurting yourself if you make excuses for not taking action in some areas — and one of those areas is investing. Not investing, or not investing enough, can have serious consequences. In fact, a lot of people are poorly prepared financially for retirement. Consider these figures from the Federal Reserve: The median retirement account value for individuals between 35 and 44 is just $42,700; for people 55 to 64, the corresponding figure is $103,000. These figures are frighteningly low, especially when retirement can easily last two or three decades. In short, you need to invest. So, what’s stopping you? Here are some common excuses: • “I’ll do it later.” The longer you wait before you start investing, the less time you have to accumulate money, and the less likely it may be that you’ll achieve your goals, such as a comfortable retirement lifestyle. If you haven’t begun investing, do it today. • “I don’t have enough money to invest.” The cost

of living is unquestionably high, and you may feel that you have just enough money to pay your bills before your next paycheck. But if you look for ways to economize, you may well be able to free up even a little money to invest each month. And then, when your salary goes up, you can increase the amount n The you invest.

• “I don’t know where to begin.” If you work for a company that provides a retirement plan such as a 401(k) or something similar, you’ve already got a great place to begin. You only need to sign up for the plan and longer you start deferring a wait before • “I’ll have Social part of your salaSecurity.” Social ry, and you’re an you start Security benefits geninvestor. It’s also investing, erally account for only quite easy to open the less time about 40% of an indian IRA, another you have to vidual’s pre-retirement popular retirement income, according to savings account. accumulate the Social Security In any case, if you money. Administration. Unless have doubts about you want to scale back how to get started your lifestyle greatly investing, you will during your retirement years, you’ll find it valuable to meet with need to supplement Social Security a qualified investment prowith your employer-backed retirefessional. ment account, such as a 401(k), plus your own investments, such as those Don’t let excuses get in that go inside an IRA. the way of developing good investment habits. With • “Can I really invest enough time, determination and money for my retirement?” effort, you can overcome Consider this: Going back to 1990, many of the obstacles you if you had invested $10,000 in the thought prevented you from stocks that make up the S&P 500, becoming a full-fledged and simply held on to these stocks, investor. you would have amassed more than $76,000 after taxes by the end of This article was written 2013. Of course, past performance by Edward Jones for use by of the market is not a guarantee of your local Edward Jones how it will perform in the future, and Financial Advisor. the S&P 500 is an unmanaged index and is not meant to depict an actual For further information investment — but this illustration contact Veronica Coleman still shows that patient, diligent, long- at (618) 931-2397 or term investing can produce positive 1-800-EDJONES. results.

Check out this week’s

PARTYLINE See Page C10

C1 • ST. LOUIS AMERICAN • JUNE 18 - 24, 2015

A natural high Famuyiwa’s filmmaking potential realized in ‘Dope’ By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American

In “Dope,” central character Malcolm leads a trio of unlikely misfit punk rockers obsessed with the

Since the 1975 release of instant black movie classic “Cooley High,” every decade has included a concerted effort to capture the current angst of urban teens on film. 1990’s babies are lucky that Rick Famuyiwa has stylishly rolled them all into one for “Dope,” which opens nationwide on Friday, June 19. He did his homework and tipped his hat to the urban youth subgenre, while creating a film that felt all his own. Special attention is given to the 1990s – an unofficial urban youth cinema renaissance that gave birth to the likes of “House Party,” “Juice,” “Menace II Society” and Academy Award-nominated “Boyz N The Hood.”

n They operate in a selfcontained counterculture of “Yo! MTV Raps” VHS recordings and vintage video games as the world carries on without them.

decade’s hi-top fades, the colorful clothes and, most importantly, the hiphop.

They manage to operate in a selfcontained counterculture of “Yo! MTV Raps” VHS recordings and vintage video games as the world carries on without them in Inglewood, California. Malcolm is an overachieving student from an underperforming high school who has boldly set his sights on Harvard. Then, in a twist of unforeseen circumstances, Malcolm and his crew are forced to engage in the very behavior and lifestyle they’ve consciously avoided amidst the traps that await them on every corner. “Dope” showcases the grime of hood life without weighing the audience down with it. The film humanizes the formulaic clichés of the “boy trying to escape the hood” story. It even

An uncommon voice Counter tenor Tai Oney makes OTSL debut in ‘Richard The Lionheart’

See DOPE, C4

“Dope,” directed by Rick Famuyiwa, opens in theatres nationwide on Friday, June 19. The film is rated R with a running time of 115 minutes.

Cute for the cure

By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American “Most people, when they hear the term ‘counter tenor’ they pigeonhole us, but the truth is we are just like any other voice type,” said Tai Oney. “With Tim you get to see that he’s a nice, robust, low-voiced counter tenor, and almost trumpet-like. With me, I’m like a subtle, higher flute.” With Tim Mead in the title role, Oney takes the Opera Theatre Saint Louis stage for the first time in their production of Handel’s “Richard the Lionheart,” the latest U.S. premiere for OTSL. The production continues through June 26 at The Loretto Hilton. With two counter tenors and soprano Susannah Biller effortlessly leaping to the top of her range, the ensemble of singers shatters limits and expectations with respect to vocal range in the dramatized portrait of 12th century England’s warrior king. “I think we feed off of each other, and it’s great that you can see the differences in our voices,” Oney said. “I think it’s wonderful to see the audience’s reaction. They don’t have one counter tenor – they have two – and you get to distinguish the two voices.” Oney said he usually takes about two months to study the libretto and the music. He shapes the character and plans what to present on stage in close detail. Initially, he found his current role challenging. “When I first looked at the libretto, I thought, ‘Who is Oronte? What’s his purpose?’ Although I am engaged to Pulcheria, there is no back story for Oronte,” Oney said about his character, who fights alongside England’s king in the Crusades.

Photo by Ken Howard

n “You can find anything in opera that you find in all of these other genres of music.” – Tai Oney

“Lee Blakely, our director, really challenged me and the rest of the cast to dig deeper to find who we were as the characters,” Oney said. “One of the things we discovered about Oronte is that he is trying to find himself.” The journey that led Oney to discover opera was an unlikely one. The Panama City, Florida native was halfway through his undergraduate studies – he was training at Stetson University to become a high school choral director – when a classmate heard something special. “I wanted to teach urban kids,” Oney said. “But I was demonstrating for the altos and sopranos, and a

Photo by Lawrence Bryant

See PLAY, C4

Debbie Vincent showed off her artwork as a sea of breast cancer survivors came out for the Susan G. Komen Race Saturday morning.

Jazz St. Louis turns 20

•Only Online •

Final weekend to catch Gitana’s ‘Black and Blue’

Gene Dobbs Bradford looks to the past – and future – of jazz in St. Louis By Chris King Of The St. Louis American

Photo by Wiley Price

Gene Dobbs Bradford, president and CEO of Jazz St. Louis, announcing its $10 million capital campaign to support a new state-ofthe-art live performance and jazz education center at 3540 Washington Ave. in Grand Center last May.

This October will mark the 20th anniversary of Jazz St. Louis, making it “a good time to look back,” Jazz St. Louis’ President & CEO Gene Dobbs Bradford told The American. But since the 2015-2016 season marks only its second full season in the world-class Harold & Dorothy Steward Center for Jazz, it’s also a time for Jazz St. Louis to look forward. As for looking back, Bradford said, “A lot of great music came through in the past 20 years – a lot of it by people who are not with us anymore.” He thought immediately of Ray Brown, the bassist who passed in

2002, and James Moody, the saxophonist who passed in 2010. “This was the music that created bebop,” Bradford said – and those creators are gone. However, Jazz St. Louis has not prepared the equivalent of memorial concerts for its anniversary season. Ongoing tributes to the departed are implicit in the programming of today, Bradford said: “It’s a continuum.” For example, the season opens September 23-26 with the program “Jazz St. Louis @ 20,” featuring Christian McBride, Cyrus Chestnut, Gregory Hutchinson, Russell Malone, Terell Stafford and Tim Warfield. “When we started off, these were the See JAZZ, C4

“Black and Blue,” an original play which explores the complicated relationship between the African American community and law enforcement, concludes its run this weekend at St. Louis Community College- Florissant Valley’s Terry M. Fischer Theater.

www.stlamerican.com

Calendar

ST. LOUIS AMERICAN • JUNE 18 – 24, 2015 answered a civic call to duty. Vendors will be available with a variety of goodies available for purchase to suit the most discriminating consumer, a delectable 3-course meal, cash bar, and live performances for your entertainment pleasure. A portion of the ticket purchase will benefit our veterans in need. The Atrium-Paul F. Detrick Building, Christian Northeast Hospital, 11133 Dunn Rd., 63136. For more information, call (314) 6419200.

How to place a calendar listing 1. Email your listing to calendar@stlamerican. com OR 2. Visit the calendar section on stlamerican.com and place your listing Calendar listings are free of charge, are edited for space and run on a space-available basis.

concerts Fri., June 19, 7 p.m., K & LG Enterprises presents Floetry: The Reunion Tour. The Pageant, 6161 Delmar Blvd., 63112. For more information, call (314) 7266161 or visit www.thepageant. com. Sat., June 20, 7 p.m., The Pageant presents Tyler, the Creator. 6161 Delmar Blvd., 63112. For more information, call (314) 726-6161 or visit www.thepageant.com. Thur., July 9, 7 p.m., 100.3 The Beat presents Summer Block Party feat. Jill Scott, Common, and special guest DJ Jazzy Jeff. Peabody Opera House, 1400 Market St., 63103. For more information, call (314) 499-7600 or visit www.peabodyoperahouse.com. Sun., July 12, 6 p.m., Ballpark Village and Old School 95.5 present District Rhythms Summer Concert Series feat. George Clinton and ParliamentFunkadelic. Ballpark Village, 601 Clark Ave., 63102. For more information, call (314) 345-9481 or visit www. stlballparkvillage.com.

local gigs Fri., June 19, 7 p.m., A Tribute to St. Louis Saxophonists feat. The Jazz Edge Big Band with Eric Person, Bosman Twins, Willie Akins, Paul DeMarinis. Recognized as a dynamic, driving and versatile ensemble, TJE delivers original charts combined with exciting contemporary R&B, soul and blues. Oliver Nelson, Jimmy Forrest and David Sanborn are among the revered horn legends that will be remembered. To cap the evening off, three dynamic individuals will each receive an award for their leadership in the arts: Hugh “Peanuts”

Whalum, Ron Carter, Ron Himes. Touhill Performing Arts Center, UMSL, One University Blvd., 63121. For more information, visit www. touhill.org. Sat., June 20, The Grove Neighborhood presents RFT Music Showcase. The best and brightest local bands, as voted by the Readers of the Riverfront Times, are featured at venues throughout The Grove Neighborhood. 4140 Manchester Ave., 63110. For more information, visit www. riverfronttimes.com. Sun., June 21, 2:45 p.m., The Griot Museum of Black History hosts Ladies’ Sing the Blues starring Denise Thimes with Cheryl Brown and Anita Jackson and special guest MC, The Real JR. This concert is the kick-off event for the new museum exhibit “A Cast of Blues.” 2505 St. Louis Ave., 63106. For more information or to purchase tickets, call (314) 241-7507 or visit www. thegriotmuseum.com. Sat., June 20, The Grove Neighborhood presents RFT Music Showcase. The best and brightest local bands, as voted by the Readers of the Riverfront Times, are featured at venues throughout The Grove Neighborhood. 4140 Manchester Ave., 63110. For more information, visit www. riverfronttimes.com. Sun., June 21, 7 p.m., Jazz at the Bistro presents Wild Women of Song: Great Gal Composers of the Early Jazz and Blues Era. Pamela Rose’s captivating showpiece celebrates the life, times and music of the singer-songwriters Peggy Lee, Alberta Hunter, Ida Cox (who wrote “Wild Women Don’t Worry”) and other luminaries. With virtuoso jazz back-up band, dramatic projected images, and superb storytelling, Pamela Rose artfully delivers a cultural blues and jazz retrospective treat. 3536 Washington Ave.,

Ballpark Village and Old School 95.5 present District Rhythms Summer Concert Series feat. George Clinton and Parliament-Funkadelic. See CONCERTS for details.

63103. For More information, visit www.jazzstl.org. Fri., June 26, 6 p.m., The Legend Singers present Family Affair. Help us celebrate African-American music genres and family performers with a reception and concert. The Ethical Society of St. Louis, 9001 Clayton Rd., 63105. For more information, call (314) 5249086. Sun., June 28, 6 p.m., The Whitaker Foundation presents Free Summer Concerts in Ivory Perry Park feat. Coleman Hughes Project with Adrianne Felton-King. Hear some of the best local R&B, soul, jazz and gospel coming at your from the Commerce Bank stage in a beautiful park. Bring chairs to sit under the tent or a blanket to spread on the lawn, then open your picnic basket or buy from vendors on-site. 800 N. Belt Ave., 63112. For more information, call (314) 725-3077 or visit www. ucministries.com/concertseries.

special events Fri., June 19, 7 p.m., St. Louis Zoo hosts ZooFARI 2015 The Golden Anniversary. Join us for our biennial creative black-tie fundraiser. Partygoers can

graze from more than 60 restaurants, caterers and bars; enjoy specialty drinks, bid on spectacular items at the silent auction and dance under the stars. Headlining musical act is Kenny Loggins. Proceeds from the fundraiser help the Zoo in its efforts to save endangered species at home and around the world. Ages 21 and up only. Reservation required. 1 Government Dr., 63110. For more information, visit www. stlzoo.org.

Festival in Strauss Park. For more information, visit www. camstl.org.

Fri., June 19, 8 p.m., Scottrade Center presents Bellator MMA: Unfinished Business Kimbo Slice vs. Shamrock. 1401 Clark ave., 63103. For more information, visit www.scottradecenter.com.

Sat., June 20, 11 a.m., Sabayet, Inc. presents 9th Annual Juneteenth Celebration: Abibfahodie “African Liberation.” Come have a good time, and learn more about the clinic that is under construction in Ghana and what you can do to help us finish this project for the African community there and here, because we are one family. 400 Maffitt Ave., 63113. For more information, call (314) 535-2599 or visit www.sabayet.org.

Fri., June 19, 8 p.m., Normandy Senior High School Class of 2005 Reunion Party. Machinists Hall, 12365 St. Charles Rock Rd., 63044. For more information, visit www.nhsco2005.myevent.com. Sat., June 20, 10 a.m., Contemporary Art Museum, the Pulitzer Arts Foundation, and the Sheldon present Family Day Block Party. Enjoy art activities, performances, storytelling, face painting, and more at each location. 10:00-10:30: Storytime at the Pulitzer. 10:45-11:15: Paul Vandivort’s cardboard labyrinth, face painters and musical guests the Trip Daddy’s at CAM. 11:30-Noon: Circus acts at the Sheldon. Noon-2:00: Fringe

Sat., June 20, 9 a.m., The Butterfly House hosts 14th Annual Green Homes Festival. Explore the links between sustainability, energy efficiency, conservation at home and a healthy environment. 15193 Olive Blvd., 63017. For more information, visit www. missouribotanicalgarden.org.

Sun., June 21, 3 p.m., Quintessential Entertainment Group hosts 3rd Annual Tribute to Fathers. The purpose of this event is to celebrate, give recognition, uplift, promote awareness, and to honor those fathers who have dedicated themselves to maintaining a caring, loving and nurturing environment for his family. The theme for this year’s event is, “Honoring our Veterans; The Unsung Hero” where we honor those fathers who in addition to serving their families as Dad, but also

Sun., June 21, 12 p.m., St. Louis University Hospital Family Fun Day. This kickoff event for the Second Annual Family Fun Days Series will be sports themed. Activities include a rockclimbing wall, St. Louis Rams kick pass game, racing fun house, obstacle course, and much more. Admission is free, but an all-access pass for premium activities can be purchased, with all proceeds benefiting Stray Rescue of St. Louis. Ballpark Village, 601 Clark Ave., 63102. For more information, call (314) 345-9481 or visit www. stlballparkvillage.com. June 26 – 28, Gateway Classic Cars and Collector’s Corner present 3-Day Super Sport Show. We are proud to host St. Louis’ greatest in sports history for an exciting three days of personal superstar signings. More than ten historic athletes will all be gathering together for a weekend of thrilled fans, merchandise sales from local businesses, and of course vintage vehicles. Michael Wacha, Kolten Wong and Lou Brock to name a few, will all be prepared to meet fans and sign merchandise, such as sports memorabilia. Gateway Classic Cars, 1237 Central Park Dr., O’Fallon, IL. 62269. For more information, call (618) 726-2210 or visit www.collectorscornersports. com. June 26 – 28, Pride St. Louis, Inc. presents PrideFest 2015. PrideFest is an annual celebration of gay, lesbian, and transgender culture. The festival includes a parade with floats and contingents, twenty hours of live entertainment ranging from pop, disco, jazz, rock, country and rap. A commitment ceremony will be held on June 27 at 3 p.m. in the City Hall rotunda, with a reception to follow. There will be Pride Parade, beginning at 11 a.m. on June 28, coming down Market Street – starting at 8th Street and ending at 18th Street. Soldiers Memorial Park, 1315 Chestnut St., 63103. For more information, call

ST. LOUIS AMERICAN • JUNE 18 – 24, 2015 (314) 772-8888 or visit www. pridestl.org. Sat., June 27, 7 p.m., 1st Annual All-PHL STL Throwback House Party Reunion, Calling all City Alumni, The Ambassador, 9800 Halls Ferry. For more information, call 314-2295267. June 27 – 28, 10 a.m., Midwest Natural Hair Health & Beauty Expo. We will have workshops, styling demonstrations, natural hair products and distributors, holistic health and wellness tips, entertainment, vendors, and more. Ramada Plaza, 811 N. 9th St., 63101. For more information, call (314) 6437336. Sat., June 27, 1 p.m., 2015 St. Louis Underground Music Festival. The Biggest Hip Hop Festival in the Midwest returns for it’s 6th year of showcasing all four elements of the Hip Hop in a twelve hour event with: over seventy performers on three stages, more than twenty of the area’s hottest Hip Hop DJ’s, graffiti artists doing live displays, producer beat battle for a cash prize, freestyle battle for cash prize, and much more. 2720 Cherokee Performing Arts Center, 2720 Cherokee St., 63118. For more information, call (314) 4428749 or visit www.slumfest. com. Sat., June 27, 7 p.m., Thriller Entertainment and Inphyniti Enterprise presents 1st Annual All Public High League St. Louis Throwback “Houseparty” Reunion. The Ambassador, 9800 Halls Ferry Rd., 63136. For more information, call (314) 4969358 or (314) 229-5267. Through June 28, Circus Flora: “ One Summer on 2nd Street. Circus Flora, St. Louis’s own intimate onering theatre circus where audience members are as close as two-feet and never more than 40 feet from the ring. Enter the Big Top and travel to the Roaring Twenties, to

The Griot Museum of Black History hosts Ladies’ Sing the Blues starring Denise Thimes with Cheryl Brown and Anita Jackson. For more information, see SPECIAL EVENTS.

Featured Event Sat., June 13, 10:30 a.m., Fundisha Turns 20! Dance Workshops and Performance. CEO and artistic director of Fundisha Enterprises, Mama Lisa celebrates 20 years of the company’s arts-education service to St. Louis showcasing the music, songs, and dances. The Sacred Mask Tree, at the Museum. 5700 Lindell Blvd., 63112. For more information, call (314) 746-4599 or visit www. mohistory.org. (See Dance) a typical block on a typical day, and meet a very atypical set of families. 3511 Samuel Shepard Dr., 63103. For show time information, visit www. circusflora.org.

literary Thur., June 18, 7 p.m., Left Bank Books hosts author Cheeraz Gormon, author of In the Midst of Loving. North St. Louis native, life-long activist, and internationally touring spoken word poet, Cheeraz Gormon, opens her heart for the world to connect with her story. As a life-long lover who understands that “Love makes no promises, only humans do,” she boldly takes the reader on a journey “...from break ups to break downs, while all in the midst of loving.” Refreshments will be provided. 399 N. Euclid, 63108. For more information, call (314) 367-6731 or visit www.left-bank.com.

theatre Through June 20, Thur. – Sun., 8 p.m., Stray Dog Theatre presents Dog Sees God: Confessions of a Teenage Blockhead. A New

York Fringe Festival hit which satirizes the Peanuts comic strip by aging its cast of characters into their teenage years. Consumed with teenage angst, Charlie Brown (CB) and his friends face questions of morality, the existence of an afterlife and true friendship. Tower Grove Abbey, 2336 Tennessee Ave., 63104. For more information, call (314) 865-1995 or visit www. straydogtheatre.org. Through June 21, 8:15 p.m. The Muny presents My Fair Lady. 1 Theatre Dr., 63112. For more information, call (314) 361-1900 or visit www. muny.org. Through June 21, Gitana Productions presents “Black and Blue,” an original play by Lee Patton Chiles exploring the complex relationship between the African American community and the police, opens May 22 for a fourweek run. Performances will be at the Missouri History Museum May 22 – 24; at the Kranzberg Arts Center May 29 – May 31; at Greater St. Mark Family Church June 7; and at St. Louis Community College at Florissant Valley June 19 – 21. Tickets are free but reservations are required for all performances except

the Missouri History Museum. Register online at www.gitanainc.org or call (314) 721-6556 or email info@gitana-inc.org. Sun., June 21, 2 p.m., Powell Symphony Hall presents My Sinatra. For Father’s Day, join the STL Symphony and actor Cary Hoffman for a 100th birthday celebration in honor of Frank Sinatra. Hoffman brings his celebrated PBS Special, a very true, hilarious and poignant oneman musical play about his love and idolization for his hero Frank, to Powell Hall. 718 N. Grand Blvd., 63103. For more information, visit www. stlsymphony.org. June 26 – 27, COCA presents Bring It On The Musical. Bitingly relevant and sprinkled with sass, this show takes audiences on a high-flying journey filled with the complexities of friendship, jealousy, betrayal, and forgiveness. Recommended for ages 12 and up. Edison Theatre, Washington University, 6445 Forsyth Blvd., 63130. For more information, call (314) 725-6555 or visit www.edison.wustl.edu. Through June 28, Robert G. Reim Theatre presents

C3 Smokey Joe’s Cafe. Welcome to the neighborhood for a nostalgic exploration of the lives, loves, and aspirations of a group of friends who know how to rock 60s style. Featuring nearly 40 charttopping hits that span over three decades of popular American music, this thrilling Grammy award-winning song celebration will knock your socks off. Relive the glory days of rock and roll with such pop standards as “Stand By Me”, “Jailhouse Rock,” “I’m A Woman,” “Hound Dog,” and “On Broadway.” 111 S. Geyer Rd., 63122. For more information, visit www. stagesstlouis.org. Through June 28, The Playhouse at Westport Plaza presents Disney’s The Aristocats. Madame’s furry felines have been cat-napped! Luckily, Thomas O’Malley and his rag-tag bunch of Alley Cats are ready to spring to the rescue of Duchess and her Aristokittens. What happens next is anyone’s guess. This modern version of the familiar Disney classic is just purrrrrfect for the entire family. 635 West Port Plaza, 63146. For more information, visit www. stagesstlouis.org.

lectures/ workshops Sun., July 26, 1 p.m., Missouri History Museum presents That’s the Way It Was: Stories of Struggle, Survival and Self-Respect in Twentieth-Century Black St. Louis. 5700 Lindell Blvd., 63112. For more information, visit www.mohistory.org.

arts June 22 – Aug. 8, The Griot Museum of Black History presents A Cast of Blues. This touring exhibit tells the stories of hopes, sorrows, and triumphs of Mississippi blues legends who lived and breathed the blues through 15 resin-cast

masks, created by visuallyimpaired artist Sharon McConnell-Dickson, and 15 panoramic color photographs by Ken Murphy of blues artists and the colorful juke joints where they performed. 2505 St. Louis Ave., 63106. For more information or to purchase tickets, call (314) 241-7507 or visit www. thegriotmuseum.com. June 24 – Sept. 11, The Griot Museum of Black History presents Opening Doors: Pioneering African American Surgeons. This exhibit celebrates the history of black surgeons and black medical institutions, as well as current and future trailblazers in the field. For more information or to purchase tickets, call (314) 241-7507 or visit www.thegriotmuseum. com. June 28 – Sept. 27, The Saint Louis Art Museum presents Senufo: Art and Identity in West Africa. One Fine Arts Dr., 63110. For more information, call (314) 7210072 or visit www.slam.org. Through June 30, St. Louis Public Library hosts 365 Days with Dad Exhibit. In 2012 Cbabi Bayoc set out to paint images of black fathers and their children every day. His project shows positive images of black fathers and their interactions with their children. Central Library, 1301 Olive St., 63103. For more information, call (314) 241-2288 or visit www.slpl. org. Through Aug. 23, The Botanical Gardens hosts Lantern festival: Magic Reimagined. The Garden plays host to an international exhibition of 22-lighted works of art from Zigong, China. The Garden has commissioned sets crafted from silk and steel to offer visitors from around the world the opportunity to see an event rarely staged outside of Asia. 4344 Shaw Blvd., 63110. For more information visit www. missouribotanicalgarden.org.

ST. LOUIS AMERICAN • JUNE 18 - 24, 2015

Tai Oney as Oronte and Tim Mead as Richard the Lionheart in Opera Theatre of Saint Louis’s 2015 production of Richard the Lionheart.

PLAY Continued from C1

n “Dope” is at times preachy, stating the obvious in an attempt to reinforce positive messages when the film gets thick into its underworld elements.

DOPE Continued from C1 manages to be light in lieu of the circumstances that create the conflict and drama. With this film, Famuyiwa raised the bar he set with his filmmaking debut in 1999 with “The Wood” and 2002’s “Brown Sugar.” Ahead of its nationwide release, “Dope” carries the reputation of being the darling of the Sundance Film Festival and an official selection at Cannes, all with a cast of mostly unknowns. Although he comes off as more cheesy than even the biggest nerd the hood ever produced, Shameik Moore delivers a solid performance as Malcolm. Most of the kinks seen in his first starring role will be ironed out with age and experience. Kiersey Clemons delivers an especially noteworthy and well-rounded performance as Diggy, Malcolm’s his genderbending “ride or die” partner in crime. But the most promising performance surprisingly comes from rapper A$AP

Rocky for his portrayal as Dom. His feature film debut as a charismatic and intelligent young drug dealer who clearly lost the hood battle between good and evil was extremely impressive. He just might follow the likes of Ice Cube – and even Will Smith – with a foray into acting. “Dope” is at times preachy, stating the obvious in an attempt to reinforce positive messages when the film gets thick into its underworld elements. “I don’t want to go to jail, I want to go to college,” one character yells out. The film turns into an absolute sermon at the end, more than likely to offset the imagery and actions of the characters. Audiences are essentially failed by the final frames of the film. But they will have been on such a wild and entertaining ride with Famuyiwa’s band of young misfits that they’ll charge it to the game – and still leave singing the praises of “Dope.” “Dope” opens in theatres nationwide on Friday, June 19. The film is rated R with a running time of 115 minutes.

classmate of mine said, ‘I think you might be a counter tenor.’ I said, ‘Counter tenor, what is that?’” He began researching, which led him to famed black counter tenor Derek Lee Ragin. “I told my voice teacher at the time that I have this extension in my voice and asked if he would mind hearing it,” Oney said. The teacher gave him an aria to learn for homework and told him to come back “whenever he was ready.” Excited by unlocking another element to his voice, Oney learned the aria in one day. “The next time I saw him, I sang it for him,” Oney said. “And he said, ‘I think this is something we should start working on.’” Since then he has gone on to perform at opera houses all over the world – most recently, Australia. He’s been based in London for the past three years. “I’ll be honest, I didn’t grow up with opera and it took some time for me to enjoy it once I started studying it,” Oney said. “But you can find anything in

JAZZ Continued from C1 up-and-comers, still learning from the old guard. Christian studied with Ray Brown,” Bradford said. “So the old guys who are gone passed it on. And now these guys have grown into the statesmen. They are taking on the role of mentoring the next generation of musicians.” Members of that “next generation” appearing with Jazz St. Louis next season, Bradford said, include trumpeter Sean Jones (recording a live album December 2-5), multiinstrumentalist Warren Wolf (January 20-23, 2016) and Chilean-born tenor saxophonist Melissa Aldana (April 27-30, 2016). “These guys are not as well known,” Bradford said. “Now they’re the up-and-comers.” The new season also provides a “continuum” to the past in reviving the piano trio, a performance context favored by Barbara Rose, the late founder of Jazz St. Louis. The new “Barbara Rose Series” features the Monty Alexander Trio (September 9-10), Karrin Allyson sings Rodgers &

Photo by Ken Howard

opera that you find in all of these other genres of music.” And, vice versa. “For those who don’t quite understand what the counter tenor voice does, I say, ‘Do you listen to Michael Jackson? Justin Timberlake? Maxwell?’” Oney said. “They all use their falsetto.” As he learns and grows

in his voice, he deepens his passion for the form. “When I sing opera, there is something else that I feel takes over,” Oney said. “It makes me want to share with other people. Sometimes people may think that it’s self-indulgent, but I have so much joy when I’m singing that I want to share it with people.”

Three performances remain for Opera Theatre Saint Louis’ production of “Richard the Lionheart.” They will take place at 8 p.m. Saturday, June 20; Wednesday, June 24; and Friday, June 26 at The LorettoHilton, 130 Edgar Rd. (at Big Bend). Call (314) 961-0644 or visit www.opera-stl.org.

Hammerstein (November 11-12) and the Kenny Barron Trio (April 6-7, 2016). “The season before I first booked Jazz at the Bistro, 17 of the 18 concerts were piano trios,” Bradford said. “There wasn’t a horn in the bunch. Now we have one or two piano trios per season, so it’s kind of reversed. But it’s important for us not to forget where we came from.” As for where they are going, Bradford is ambitious, buoyed

say, St. Louis would have to surpass some jazz giants, such as Chicago and New York. Bradford is starting the ascent slowly by adding more programming, with concerts planned for Wednesday through Saturday with a Sunday Jazz Brunch, every week starting in September. In recent years, Jazz St. Louis alternated weeks with Wednesday through Saturday shows, followed by regional artists playing only the next Friday and Saturday.

environment is up to the level of the music being played there,” Bradford said. In fact, even in the improved and expanded space, with 220 seats instead of the previous capacity of 155, he said, “We’re still selling out shows” – still turning away people who want to see live jazz in St Louis. Yellowjackets (October 7-10), Poncho Sanchez (November 4-7) and David Sanborn (April 13-16, 2016) are among the marquee names likely to sell out the Ferring Bistro this season. But in collaborations with New Music Circle (such as The Bad Plus, January 6-9) and other edgier bookings, Jazz St. Louis is willing to risk a few less crowded rooms to challenge its audience. “If everybody likes everything we put on, we’re not doing a very good job,” Bradford said. “We want music that makes a strong statement, and if you’re making a strong statement, you’re going to rub someone the wrong way.” Jazz St. Louis subscription packages are on sale now at jazzstl.org or 314-571-6000 and individual tickets go on sale beginning August 19.

n “It’s important for us not to forget

where we came from.”

– Gene Dobbs Bradford, Jazz St. Louis

by the Harold & Dorothy Steward Center for Jazz and the Ferring Jazz Bistro, which Bradford argues is “one of the five best jazz rooms in the world.” “The new facility will help us take the organization to the next level,” Bradford said, “and establish St. Louis as the center of jazz in the Midwest – and, eventually, the country.” To do that, needless to

“That means something is going on in the Bistro five days out of every week,” Bradford said. St. Louis is showing that it wants more live jazz. This past season, the first in the new facility, both ticket revenue and subscription sales shot up by more than 50 percent. “Whereas before we had to apologize to people, a little bit, about the space, now the

Career Center

THE

ST. LOUIS AMERICAN

•

JUNE 18

THE

ST. LOUIS AMERICAN C5

- 24, 2015

$29

$22.50/week $19.50/week

COORDINATOR

COMMUNITYRELATIONS

St. Louis Extended Education unit of Webster University is seeking a fulltime Academic Advisor/Community Relations Coordinator. Please visit our website at www.webster.edu for a complete job description. No phone calls please.

SPECIALIST

We are proud to be an equal opportunity affirmative action employer. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply.

PART TIME OFFICER The city of Rock Hill is accepting applications for 1 part time officer. Candidate must be Post Certified and hold a Class A license. Prior experience is preferred, pay rate is $17.00 hr. Applications are available on our website www.rockhillmo.net or can be picked up at 320 W Thornton, Rock Hill MO. Deadline for applications is 07/06/2015 @ 5pm. The city of Rock Hill is an EOE.

www.stlamerican.com ADJUNCT FACULTY POSITIONS The School of Communications at Webster University is seeking adjunct instructors to teach in its Undergraduate and Graduate Programs. Please visit http://www.webster.edu/ human-resources/job-opportunities.html for detailed information on all School of Communications opportunities. Webster University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action educator and employer. We are committed to maintaining a culturally and academically diverse staff of the highest caliber. We strongly encourage applications from those who identify as diverse in terms of gender, race, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, and/or veteran status.

FT position supports the fundraising, special events and community relations efforts of organization. BA/BS. Strong communication skills, organized, excellent interpersonal skills & detailed oriented. EOE/AA. Send resume to: CRS, 3401 Arsenal St., St. Louis, MO 63118 or info@iistl.org

IMMEDIATE OPENINGS Earn EXTRA MONEY $$$ NOW HIRING PT evening positions M-F, call us today! Proud to offer a drug free Environment! Clean criminal background required. Call now 1-888-645-1505

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Qualified Early Head Start Teachers (Infant Toddler CDA) for Child Development Center. Cover letter and resume to HR, St. Louis Transitional Hope House, Inc., 1611 Hodiamont Ave., St. Louis, MO 63112 or email to info@hopehousestl.com.

Possible Full, Part-Time positions, background check.Steady work history for 3-5 years, forklift or equipment operating experience preferred. MUST apply in person at 314 N. Jefferson at Olive. Monday - Friday 9A to 5P. Two forms of I.D.

Visit us on the web @ www.stlamerican.com

CIRCULATION MANAGER/AUDITOR Part time

STARS Afterschool Program

The St. Louis American is looking for a part time Circulation PROGRAM COORDINATOR Manager/Auditor to oversee our newspaper Assist Manager of Afterschool distribution system and to ensure we are continuing to best serve Programs with implementation and our readers’ needs throughout the region. The duties include: planning of daily afterschool activities, checking the quality of boxes and racks FAMILY COURT ADMINISTRATOR including design and execution of throughout the area, checking numbers of papers distributed, papers The Family Court of St. Louis County, Missouri is seeking a with lesson plans, activities and events. returned, and when the newspapers are delivered, as well as responsibility for the overall administrative management of a large scouting new distribution locations for the 2:00pm – 6:30pm $10.50 per hour metropolitan family court. This position oversees the non-judicial activities newspaper. For full job description and to submit of the Court including its social service, legal and operational components. Must be conscientious, detail-oriented and have own vehicle. your cover letter and resume, contact Directs the activities of department directors and support staff that provide Veterans applications welcome. Ms. Edmondson at services in juvenile delinquency, child protection, domestic relations and Please send resume to kjones@stlamerican.com

sedmondson@nsyssc.com. www.stlamerican.com

STEM/SCIENCE POSITION Marian Middle School (www.mms-stl.ort) is accepting applications for a 6th-8th grade STEM/Science position. Our school is an all-girls, Catholic school committed to breaking the cycle of poverty through education. The ideal candidate will possess certification, two or more years of teaching experience, and skill with/passion for STEM programming. Please email resume/cover letter to Sister Barbara Roche at broche@mms-stl.org. Minorities are encouraged to apply.

THE

ST. LOUIS AMERICAN

St. Louis Development Corporation (“SLDC”), hereby requests qualifications for legal services to assist SLDC with labor and employment law matters. For a copy of the RFQ please visit our website at www.stlouis-mo.gov/sldc by selecting the RFP/RFQ link for a complete copy of the RFQ, or contact: ST. LOUIS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION 1520 Market, SUITE 2000 ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI 63103 (314) 657-3700 (PHONE) (314) 613-7011 (FAX) Proposals are due no later than 4:00 P.M. Central Daylight Saving Time on Friday, July 10, 2015.

LETTING #8582

St. Louis Development Corporation has an opening for a Economic Development Financial Analyst who will plan and analyze potential development projects, assist in planning commercial corridors, monitor taxing/special assessment districts's economic performance, conducts feasibility analysis of taxing/special assessment districts, and works closely with district area stakeholders to plan, develop, and implement taxing districts within commercial corridors. Qualified candidates must have a BS/BA in a related field - Master's preferred, and 5 years related economic development experience. Full description can be found on-line at www.stlouis-mo.gov/sldc select "Careers at SLDC" and follow the online application process. SLDC offers a full range of benefits including deferred comp, 401(a), and medical insurance. SLDC is an equal opportunity employer. Successful candidate must be a St. Louis city resident or establish residency within 180 days of completing a probationary period. SLDC values a diverse workforce, and is an equal opportunity employer.

Bids & Notices LETTING #8580 Anode Replacement on Selected Steel Transmission Mains Sealed proposals will be received by the Board of Public Service in Room 208 City Hall, 1200 Market Street, St. Louis, Mo. Until 1:45 PM, CT, on _June 30, 2015, then publicly opened and read. Plans and Specifications may be examined on the Board of Public Service website http://www.stl-bps.org/planroom.aspx (BPS On Line Plan Room) and may be purchased directly through the BPS website from INDOX Services at cost plus shipping. No refunds will be made. Bidders shall comply with all applicable City, State and Federal laws (including MBE/WBE policies). All bidders must regard Federal Executive Order 11246, “Notice of Requirement for Affirmative Action to Ensure Equal Employment Opportunity”, the “Equal Opportunity Clause” and the “Standard Federal Equal Employment Specifications” set forth within and referenced at www.stl-bps.org (Announcements).

FOOD COMMISSARY ROOF REPLACEMENT

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Sealed proposals will be received by the Board of Public Service in Room 208 City Hall, 1200 Market Street, St. Louis, Mo. Until 1:45 PM, CT, on June 30,2015 then publicly opened and read. Plans and Specifications may be examined on the Board of Public Service website http://www.stl-bps.org/planroom.aspx (BPS On Line Plan Room) and may be purchased directly through the BPS website from INDOX Services at cost plus shipping. No refunds will be made. Bidders shall comply with all applicable City, State and Federal laws (including MBE/WBE policies). A Mandatory pre-bid meeting will be held on Wednesday, JUNE 10, 2015 at 1:30 PM in the Training Room at the Airport Office Building, 11495 Navaid Rd., Bridgeton, MO 63044.

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

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other family court matters. Acts as appointing authority for personnel and serves as primary liaison between the Family Court judiciary and administration. The position reports to the Administrative Judge of the Family Court under the policy direction of the Circuit Court en Banc. Salary range: $91,717-$146,747. Minimum Qualifications: Graduation from an accredited college or university with either a Juris Doctorate (highly preferred) or a Master’s degree in social work, public administration, business administration, or a related field, plus at least ten years of professional experience in law, social work, or public sector administration, of which at least five years should be at the management level; prior experience in court administration involving responsibility for a large subordinate staff is highly preferred; or any equivalent combination of training and experience. To apply for this position please visit http://agency.governmentjobs.com/stlouis/default.cfm. Application materials must be submitted by July 17, 2015. NOTE: All selected individuals will be required to submit to a background check and urinalysis prior to hire. EOE. Please contact the Human Resources Department at (314) 615-4481 (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.

THE

ST. LOUIS AMERICAN NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS Sealed requests for qualifications will be received by Forest Park Forever, Inc., David Lenczycki, P.E. Project Engineer, located at 5595 Grand Drive in Forest Park, St. Louis, MO 63112 until July 10, 2015, at 4 PM for the Forest Park Connectivity Study located within the City of St. Louis, MO as described in Request for Qualifications (RFQ) including other related RFQ requirements. Requests for Qualifications are available by “pdf” format at no cost at www.forestparkforever.org/bids or made available for paper copies at Forest Park Forever during office hours. This project is funded by Forest Park Forever in partnership with the City of St. Louis and administered under each agencies oversight which requires each consultant to comply with the City of St. Louis rules and regulations to participate in this scope of professional services. This is an equal opportunity event. Women and Minority in Business are encouraged to participate.

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS Separate sealed bids for: DICKINSON RESEARCH CENTER EXPANSION LINCOLN UNIVERSITY JEFFERSON CITY, MISSOURI 65101

City of Northwoods-Trash Hauler Services

REQUEST FOR BIDS Service to Begin August 1, 2015 June 7, 2015 To: Prospective Bidders From: Lillian Eunice- Northwoods City Administrator Re: Solicitation of Bids for Trash Collection Service City of Northwoods – Seeking Trash Collection Bids The City of Northwoods is seeking bids from area trash haulers that are licensed, bonded and insured to provide service to approximately 1,750 households each week. Services needed include pick-up of Household Trash (1 day @ week); Recycling (1 day @ week); Yardwaste (see bid specifications at Northwoods City Hall for week/month variations); Bulk Items; White Good Items (when called in by residents); other hauler service offers. Regarding services identified above, Bids should show the unit cost per month for 5 years of service beginning Aug.1, 2015-Jul. 31, 2020. Bids should also show the price if Northwoods City Pays the total bill and the price if Residents Pay their own trash bill. Roll-off containers will be required in at least 2 locations for City of Northwoods trash and the City will pay the waste hauler within 10 days of invoice each month for City trash service. Bid specifications are available at Northwoods City Hall-4600 Oakridge Blvd., Northwoods, Missouri 63121 where Sealed Bids will be opened on Monday, June 22, 2015 at 2:00 pm. Please address your questions directly to Ms. Lillian Eunice-Northwoods City Administrator at (314) 477-4051 or by e-mail to leunice@cityofnorthwoods.com.

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Will be received by the Office of Design and Construction in Room 309, Young Hall, 820 Chestnut Street, Jefferson City, Missouri, until 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, July 14, 2015, and then will be publicly opened and read aloud. A certified check, bank draft or bid bond, executed by the bidder and approved Surety Company, in the amount of five percent (5%) of the bid shall be submitted with each proposal. Plans and specifications may be ordered online at planroom.adsmo.net or by contacting American Document Solutions, 1400 Forum Boulevard, Columbia, MO 65203, phone (573) 446-7768, fax (573) 355-5433. A limited number of refundable sets is available for a deposit of $200 each made payable to Lincoln University of Missouri. For additional information, please visit their website. Bidders must agree to comply with prevailing wage provisions and other statutory regulations referred to in the specifications. A prebid conference and walkthrough will be conducted on Tuesday, June 30, 2015, at 10:00 a.m. at Dickinson Research Facility, 1219 Chestnut Street, Jefferson City, MO 65101. Attendance at the prebid conference and walkthrough is required of each bidder submitting a bid proposal. Subcontractors are encouraged to attend. Sheila M. Gassner, Executive Director Facilities and Planning Lincoln University

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NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS FOR LEGAL SERVICES RELATED TO EMPLOYMENT AND HUMAN RESOURCE MATTERS FOR ST. LOUIS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FINANCIAL ANALYST

THE

ST. LOUIS AMERICAN

Bids & Notices

ST. LOUIS AMERICAN

RESPONSES for St. Louis Community College on RFP B0003415 for Media Buying Services will be received until 2:00 P.M. (local time) on July 10, 2015 at the Dept. of Purchasing, 300 S. Broadway, St. Louis, MO 63102, and immediately thereafter opened and read. RFP documents can be accessed on our website at www.stlcc.edu/purchasing or by calling (314) 539-5227. EOE/AA Employer.

•

Bicycle Facilities Improvements on Canton Ave, Jackson Ave, and Old Bonhomme Rd

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS

Sealed bids for STP-5402(609), City Project No. 1091 "Bicycle Facilities Improvements on Canton Ave, Jackson Ave, and Old Bonhomme Rd” will be received by the City of University City in the Administrative Services Department, 1st Floor, 6801 Delmar Blvd., University City, MO 63130, until 10:00 A.M. (prevailing local time) Wednesday, July 15, 2015. The bids will then be opened in the presence of a City official, and the St. Louis Economic Development Partnership is contract will be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder, subject to seeking a firm specializing in advertising, MoDOT concurrence and confirmation by the City Council. A 5% security marketing, media, branding and in the form of cash, a cashier's or certified check or an acceptable bid bond communications for STLVentureWorks, a must accompany each bid. network of small business incubators. Proposals The proposed work includes: Striping removal and pavement striping and are due 12pm, Tuesday, July 7, 2015 (CST). signage for on street bicycle facilities on Canton Ave, Jackson Ave, and The complete RFP package is available at Old Bonhome Rd main.stlpartnership.com or by calling 314.615.7663. Bid packages are available through Drexel Technologies eDistribution Plan Equal Opportunity Employer. Room web site (http://planroom.drexeltech.com). Log on using your email address as your Username, and first initial followed by last name as your password. If you do not already have an account, setting one up is The Twenty-Second Judicial Circuit is currently easy and free. Once you are logged in, click on Public Jobs and then scroll soliciting bid proposals for Lawn Care down to the St. Louis Plan Room for this City of University City project. Maintenance Services at the following All labor used in the construction of this public improvement shall be paid a locations: wage no less than the prevailing hourly rate of wages of work of a similar Family Court Juvenile Div. Family Court Annex character in this locality as established by the Department of Labor and 920 N. Vandeventer 3827 Enright Ave. . St. Louis, MO 63108 St. Louis, MO 63108 Industrial Relations (Federal Wage Rate), or state wage rate, whichever is higher. The bid package may be obtained at http://www.stlcitycircuitcourt.com/index2. The City of University City hereby notifies all bidders that it will html?XMLFile=xml/RFP.xml affirmatively ensure that in any contract entered into pursuant to this There will be a mandatory pre-bid meeting on advertisement, businesses owned and controlled by socially and June 24, 2015 at 9:00 a.m. at the Family Court economically disadvantaged individuals will be afforded full opportunity to Juvenile Division. submit bids in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated EOE against on the grounds of race, color, religion, creed, sex, age, ancestry, or national origin in consideration for an award.”

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

INVITATION TO BID

VIDEO SECURITY

The City of Webster Groves is requesting proposals for the purchase of an in car video security system for the police department. Sealed proposals will be accepted until 5 P.M. Friday July 3, 2015 at 4 E. Lockwood Ave Webster Groves MO. 63119. Proposal documents are available at www.webstergroves.org/documentcenterii.aspx or by contacting Captain Spear at (314) 963-5417. All rights reserved.

METROPOLITAN ST. LOUIS SEWER DISTRICT Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is accepting proposals in the Purchasing Division, 2350 Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63103-2555 until 9:00 a.m. on July 17th, 2015 to contract with a company for: Backflow Inspection Services. Specifications and bid forms may be obtained from www.stlmsd.com, click on the “MSD AT WORK” link, (bid opportunities). The bid document will be identified as 5993 RFQ. If you do not have access to the internet, call 314.768.2735 to request a copy of this bid. Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Special Needs: If you have a special need addressed by the Americans with Disabilities Act, please notify the Department of Public Works at (314) 505-8560 or the Missouri Relay System, TDD 1-800-735-2966, at least five working days prior to the bid opening. All bidders must be on MoDOT’s Qualified Contractor List per Section 102.2 of the Missouri Standard Specifications for Highway Construction, 2011 Edition including all revisions. The contractor questionnaire must be on file 7 days prior to bid opening. Contractors and sub-contractors who sign a contract to work on public works project provide a 10-Hour OSHA construction safety program, or similar program approved by the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations, to be completed by their on-site employees within sixty (60) days of beginning work on the construction project. A certified or cashier’s check or a bid bond in the amount of 5% shall be submitted with each proposal. The City of University City reserves the right to reject any or all bids. The DBE Goal for this project is 10%. No 2nd tier subcontracting will be allowed on this project.

Find a New Career on Page C5.

Specifications and bid forms may be obtained Lillian Avenue Improvement Project from www.stlmsd.com, click on the “MSD AT Pine Ridge Drive to Edgewood Boulevard WORK” link, (bid opportunities). The bid Northwoods, Missouri document will be identified as 5973 RFP. If you do not have access to the internet, call 314.768.2735 to request a copy of this bid. Sealed bids for the Lillian Avenue Improvement Project, STP-5503(605) Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an and SRTS-INF-H31F (101) will be received at: The City Of Northwoods Equal Opportunity Employer. City Hall, 4600 Oakridge Boulevard, Northwoods, Missouri 63121, until 2:00 o'clock P.M. (Prevailing Local Time) on the 2nd day of July, 2015, in the Board of Aldermen Chambers of City Hall, and at that time will be publicly opened and read. All bids shall be submitted sealed and clearly marked: Lillian Avenue Improvement Project - STP-5503 (605) and Notice is hereby given that The Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District (District) will receive SRTS-INF-H3. The proposed project consists of installing new concrete curb and gutter sealed bids for West Oak Drive Storm Improvements under Letting No. 11000-015.1, system for proper stormwater drainage will be constructed on both sides of Lillian Avenue from the east side of Nelson Drive to approximately 150 feet at this office, 2350 Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63103, until 02:00 PM on Wednesday, east of Melwood Drive, approximately 0.48 miles with a new asphalt overlay in between the new concrete curb and gutter system. The limits of July 22, 2015, at a place designated. Bids will be received only from companies that the STP roadway improvements are between Nelson Drive and Melwood Avenue (approximately 2422 linear feet). The limits of the STP sidewalk are pre-qualified by the District’s Engineering improvements are between east of Seattle Street and Edgewood Boulevard Department for: (approximately 1375 linear feet) and between Nelson Drive and Pine Ridge SEWER CONSTRUCTION – St. Louis Drive (approximately 795 linear feet). Other improvements consist of County drainlayer’s license required decorative street lighting, landscaping and street furniture. SRTS Lillian Plans and Specifications are available for free Avenue Sidewalk Project: The limits of the SRTS sidewalk improvements electronic download. Please go to MSD’s are between Nelson Drive and east of Seattle Street (approximately 1615 website and look for a link to “ELECTRONIC linear feet). Additionally, all amenities listed within the SRTS application PLANROOM.” Plans and Specifications are such as concrete bus stop pads and new ADA compliant curb ramps and also available for viewing or purchase at Cross crosswalks along Lillian Avenue within the combined projects limits and Rhodes Reprographics located at 1710 any incidental work as deemed by the City. The duration of the project shall Macklind Avenue, St. Louis MO 63110. All be limited to 150 calendar days. bidders must obtain a set of plans and Plans and specifications are available through Drexel Technologies specifications in order to submit a bid in the eDistribution Plan Room web site (http://planroom.drexeltech.com). Log name of the entity submitting the bid. The Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an on using your email address as your Username, and first initial followed by Equal Opportunity Employer. your last name as your password. If you do not already have an account, setting one up is free of charge. Once you are logged in, click on Public Jobs and then scroll down to the St. Louis Plan Room for this particular City of Northwoods project. Any addendum to the plan set will be forwarded to all plan holders. All labor used in the construction of this public improvement shall be paid a wage no less than the prevailing hourly rate of wages of work of a Requests subcontractor bids for the following similar character in this locality as established by the Department of Labor project: and Industrial Relations (Federal Wage Rate), or state wage rate, whichever CHARLESS HOME renovations & new is higher. addition including the following scopes of work: The City of Northwoods hereby notifies all bidders that it will • Tuckpointing • Carpentry affirmatively ensure that in any contract entered into pursuant to this • Roofing & Gutters • Doors and Hardware advertisement, businesses owned and controlled by socially and • Flooring • Painting economically disadvantaged individuals will be afforded full opportunity to • Metal Railings • Appliances submit bids in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated • HVAC • Electrical against on the grounds of race, color, religion, creed, sex, age, ancestry, or • Plumbing • Fire Sprinklers national origin in consideration for an award.” • Demolition • Cabinets All bidders must be on the Missouri Department of Transportation’s • Siding • Paving (MoDOT’s) Qualified Contractor List per Section 102.2 of the Missouri • Windows Standard Specifications for Highway Construction, 2011 Edition including all revisions. The contractor questionnaire must be on file 7 days prior to Contact Jackie True, Project Manager bid opening. 314-382-7717 Contractors and sub-contractors who sign a contract to work on public Jackie@roanoke-construction.com works project provide a 10-Hour OSHA construction safety program, or Section 3, MBE and WBE firms are similar program approved by the Department of Labor and Industrial encouraged to bid. This is a prevailing wage Relations, to be completed by their on-site employees within sixty (60) days project, certified payroll will be required. of beginning work on the construction project. A certified or cashier’s check or a bid bond in the amount of 5% shall be www.stlamerican.com submitted with each proposal. The City of Northwoods, Missouri reserves the right to reject any or all bids. The DBE Goal for this project is 14%. No 2nd tier CLICK CLASSIFIEDS subcontracting will be allowed on this project.

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS

JUNE 18

THE

ST. LOUIS AMERICAN - 24, 2015

INVITATION TO BID: E.M. Harris Construction Company (EMH), 2600 Delmar Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63103 is seeking subcontractor bids for construction of the Bear Creek Apartments located in Columbia, MO. Scopes of work include, but are not limited to: moderate rehab of 76 units in 39 existing buildings including selective demolition, carpentry, finishes & furnishings, MEP and site work. Section 3, Minority, Women and Disadvantaged Business Enterprises are strongly encouraged to bid. Project plans & specifications are available for viewing online through an Invitation to Bid and at: MOKAN Planroom – 4666 Natural Bridge, 63115 – 314-565-9675 SLDC Planroom - 1712 Macklind Ave., 63110 – 314-678-0087 EMH Planroom – 2600 Delmar, 63103 – 314-436-4426 AGC Plan Room – 3806 Buttonwood Dr., Suite 106 – Columbia, MO 65201 Builders Association – 1907 Pennsylvania – Columbia, MO 65202 Missouri ISQ Plan Room – 78 Weldon Parkway – Maryland Heights, MO 63043 McGraw Hill Construction – 4300 Beltway Place #180 – Arlington, TX 76018 REED Construction Plan Room – 30 Technology Pkwy, Suite100 – Norcross, GA 30092

All bids are due to EMH office by Thursday, July 9th, 2015 at 5pm; (314) 296-5237 or (314) 436 – 6691. PREVAILING WAGES (as set by US Department of Labor and Missouri Housing Development Commission immediately prior to start of construction) MUST BE PAID TO ALL WORKERS; CERTIFIED PAYROLL REPORTS REQUIRED. For questions or additional information, please contact Vic Hoffmeister at: vic@emharris.com. EMH is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS Notice is hereby given that The Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District (District) will receive sealed bids for Lavinia Dr #10709 Storm Sewer under Letting No. 11354-015.1, at this office, 2350 Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63103, until 02:00 PM on Tuesday, July 14, 2015, at a place designated. Bids will be received only from companies that are pre-qualified by the District’s Engineering Department for: SEWER CONSTRUCTION – St. Louis County drainlayer’s license required Plans and Specifications are available for free electronic download. Please go to MSD’s website and look for a link to “ELECTRONIC PLANROOM.” Plans and Specifications are also available for viewing or purchase at Cross Rhodes Reprographics located at 1710 Macklind Avenue, St. Louis MO 63110. All bidders must obtain a set of plans and specifications in order to submit a bid in the name of the entity submitting the bid. The Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS Notice is hereby given that The Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District (District) will receive sealed bids for Madison #708 Storm Sewer under Letting No. 10221-015.1, at this office, 2350 Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63103, until 02:00 PM on Wednesday, July 15, 2015, at a place designated. Bids will be received only from companies that are pre-qualified by the District’s Engineering Department for: SEWER CONSTRUCTION – St. Louis County drainlayer’s license required Plans and Specifications are available for free electronic download. Please go to MSD’s website and look for a link to “ELECTRONIC PLANROOM.” Plans and Specifications are also available for viewing or purchase at Cross Rhodes Reprographics located at 1710 Macklind Avenue, St. Louis MO 63110. All bidders must obtain a set of plans and specifications in order to submit a bid in the name of the entity submitting the bid. The Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS Notice is hereby given that The Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District (District), the Owner, will receive sealed bids for Bissell - Coldwater - Missouri - Meramec Public I/I Reduction (2016) Contract A under Letting No. 12060-015.1, at its office, 2350 Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63103, until 2:00 PM, local time, on Thursday, July 16, 2015. All bids are to be deposited in the bid box located on the first floor of the District’s Headquarters prior to the 2:00 p.m. deadline. Bids may, however, be withdrawn prior to the opening of the first bid. BIDS WILL BE PUBLICLY OPENED AND READ IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE BID DUE DATE/TIME AT 2350 MARKET STREET, AT A PLACE DESIGNATED. The Work to be performed under these Contract Documents consists of: The work to be done under this contract consists of the rehabilitation of approximately 59,448 lineal feet of sewers,varying in size from 8-inch to 36-inch diameter, using cured-in-place (CIPP) methods, 387 manholes and 1,002 service connections. The project is within the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District Boundaries, inside the city(ies) of Jennings, Florissant, Northwoods, Pasadena Hills, and Unincorporated St. Louis County in the State of Missouri. The work will be performed in various quantities at various sites. All prospective bidders must prequalify in the Cured-In-Place Pipe category, and be certified prior to the Bid Opening. Prequalification forms for obtaining said certification may be obtained from the Owner at the above mentioned address. All bidders must obtain drawings and specifications in the name of the entity submitting the bid. This project will be financed through the Missouri State Revolving Fund, established by the sale of Missouri Water Pollution Control bonds and Federal Capitalization Grants to Missouri. Neither the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, its divisions, nor its employees will be party to the contract at any tier. Any Bidder whose firm or affiliate is listed on the GSA publication titled “List of Parties Excluded from Federal Procurement or Non-Procurement Programs” is prohibited from the bidding process; bids received from a listed party will be deemed non-responsive. Refer to Instructions to Bidders B-27 for more information regarding debarment and suspension. Nondiscrimination in Employment: Bidders on this work will be required to comply with the President’s Executive Order 11246. Requirements for bidders and contractors under this order are explained in the specifications. Plans and Specifications are available from free electronic download. Please go to MSD’s website and look for a link to “ELECTRONIC PLANROOM.” Plans and Specifications are also available for viewing or purchase at Cross Rhodes Reprographics located at 1710 Macklind Avenue, St. Louis MO 63110. All bidders must obtain a set of plans and specifications in order to submit a bid in the name of the entity submitting the bid. The Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

THE

ST. LOUIS AMERICAN

Real Estate & Rentals ST. LOUIS AMERICAN

BIDS & PUBLIC NOTICES CONTINUED LETTING NO. 8563

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Sealed proposals will be received by the Board of Public Service in Room 208 City Hall, 1200 Market Street, St. Louis, Mo. Until 1:45 PM, CT, on July 7, 2015, then publicly opened and read. Drawings and Specifications may be examined on the Board of Public Service website http://www.stl-bps.org/planroom.aspx (BPS On Line Plan Room) and may be purchased directly through the BPS website from INDOX Services at cost plus shipping. No refunds will be made. The prime contractor must have a fully responsive contractor questionnaire on file with the Missouri Highway and Transportation Commission at least 7 days prior to bid opening date in order for MODOT to concur with the award of this project. Bidders shall comply with all applicable City, State and Federal laws (including DBE policies).

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A pre-bid conference will be held at 10:00 a.m. on the 16th day of June, 2015 at Airport Office Building, 11495 Navaid, Mo. Bridgeton, Mo, 63044, 4th Floor – Training Room. All bidders are encouraged to attend the pre-bid meeting. All bidders must regard Federal Executive Order 11246, “Notice of Requirement for Affirmative Action to Ensure Equal Employment Opportunity”, the “Equal Opportunity Clause” and the “Standard Federal Equal Employment Specifications” set forth within and referenced at www.stl-bps.org (Announcements).

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3 bedrooms, central air, big basement, hardwood floors, all kitchen appliances, off street parking! only $700

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for rent in the U-City Area Central Air & Cable $125/wk & up *Shared Bathroom & Kitchen*

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Overland!

ROOMS FOR RENT

Beautiful! A must see for those 62 yrs or older!!

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1-2-3-4 bdrm houses 2 - 3 bdrm apts Finished Basement

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STARTING at $100/wk

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HOUSE FOR RENT

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HOUSE FOR RENT 2BR in the Northwoods For information call

4 BR in nice neighborhood, Large Yard $550/mo + Dep.

314-534-3863

Section 8 Welcomed

PAGE PROPERTIES

South City, nice & clean, c/a, utilities included, near bus line

Skinker! All Utilities Paid! Low deposit! 1 bedroom, appliances, central air, pets, extra storage, short term lease! $400

FURNISHED ROOMS FOR RENT

1 BR Apt Fully furnished electric provided Nice Neighborhood Delmar & Union Area $600/mo

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Appls available, Section 8 Welcome Call Leroy Hayden

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FOR RENT

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Freshly remodeled 2 BR Apt. $650/mo + Dep. All appliances incl. Near downtown

Maplewood!

- 24, 2015

4249 MARTIN LUTHER KING DR 1,2, & 3 BR apartments

Nice 1 bedroom, cold a/c, hardwood floors, all kitchen appliances, ceiling fans, recent updates! only $455

ST. LOUIS AMERICAN

Remodeled 3 bed house, central air, walk-out basement, all kitchen appliances, pets, covered porch! only $725

VERY NICE APTS. New Unit $375/mo 5200 Block of Palm

rs-stl.com AGOR2 314-309-2043

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APTS. & HOUSES FOR RENT

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Looking for a few great tenants to live in a God fearing environment. Sec. 8 welcome with open arms.

2 BR hardwood fls, 1 full ba, living rm, dining rm w/d hk-up in basement. $550 a month 44xx Floriss pl

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North City... Clean

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50 GRAND APTS NORTH CITY

LARGE FURNISHED

Lg 1 & 2 BR $495-$595 + Dep,C/A, C/H, Wall to wall Carpet, Blinds, Stove, Refrigerator, Off Street Parking & Cable included

ROOMS with sitting space, walk-in closet, Free utilities, cable, w/d, c/a. Quiet Area, near bus line. $250 every 2 weeks + $100 Dep. SSI & SSD welcome

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FOR RENT 85XX Church Rd. Newly Decorated 5 Rms. Duplex C/Air & Heat Range & Fridge W/D Hookup $590 / M0.

636-405-0559 FOR RENT 1 BR furn. apartments 4981 Rosalie @ Kingshighway $450/mo + Dep Stove & Fridge Ready Now!

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2 Bedroom house North St. Louis Section 8 only! New hardwood floors Fenced yard,Security system,Very nice!

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314-681-3008 Park Place Apts A Senior Community Now Accepting Apps! 62+ Sec 8 housing avail, income restr. apply 1-bdrm apts, A/C, on-site laundry Free gas/water/trash 4399 Forest Park Blvd St. Louis, MO 63108

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Professionally Managed by NHPMN Management, LLC

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PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: Advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, imitation, or discrimination because of race,color, religion, sex, handicap, familial\status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination .“We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.”

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SERVICE DIRECTORY 314-289-5406 Do you have medicare and medicaid? If so, then you can qualify for $1,000 of preventiative and comprehensive dental benefits every year at no cost to you. Including oral examinations, cleanings, x-rays, fillings, root canals, and full or partial dentures. Must have both medicare and medicaid aslo known as Mo. Healthnet.

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ST. LOUIS AMERICAN • JUNE 18 - 24, 2015

Celebrity Swag Snap of the Week St. Louis Rams players Rodney McLeod and TJ McDonald took a moment to unwind Friday night at HG.

Man of the hour Orlando and hostess April Simpson of Fox 2 looked amazing @ Union Station for his Rockhouse I’m A Survivor All White Gala and Cancer Awareness Benefit

Tara and Eboni relaxed @ Soho Saturday

Cameron celebrated his birthday Saturday @ The Marquee with lovelies Sierra and Taylor

Treece and Sharis had guests seeing double the black and white for Super Ego’s Ying-Yang Party Saturday @ The Rustic Goat

Ashley, Jarah, and Crystal got their chill on @ HG Saturday night

All-white Emerging 100. The only thing better than a white party is a white party for a purpose, and I got a double dose of them as I made my rounds this weekend. The Emerging 100 branch of the 100 Black Men of Metropolitan St. Louis got the weekend started off right with their party at 360 Friday night to benefit their host of mentoring programs. I got my life as the millennial movers and shakers slayed the game. And as per usual, few can serve like the lovely Sarita Moody. When I tell you her cropped top and bloom mini skirt combo was everything...I mean ever.ry.thing! I’m convinced she can take three Hefty bags and come up with a head-to-toe ensemble that will have the rest of the girls ready to go home and try again! But anyway, she wasn’t the only one slaying, even if she was my favorite. It was a nice little sexy set to usher in summer kicking it season. Stopped at the Survivor door. Now here’s the part where I’m supposed to happily share how wonderful it was when the purposeful partying continued in a major way with Orlando Watson’s 4th Annual I’m A Survivor Cancer Awareness Benefit Gala Sunday at Union Station. It did indeed – I was just unable to share any real details. Because of some rudeness I made a pivot for the nearest exit. Now, I will acknowledge the fact that I came in the wrong door, because I didn’t know which way to enter. But once I told security that I was a guest of Orlando’s and was adamantly co-signed by Cornell Boone, I assumed everything was all good and I had the green light to go ahead and peep the scene like I normally do. Wrong. One woman took it so far as to interrupt my small talk session demanding to see my credentials and not hearing a single word of me saying that I was a guest of Orlando’s. “Then where’s your wristband? “Who are you with again?” “Why don’t you have a press badge?” Girl, was it that serious? This woman’s interrogation tactics would shut down any detective on those Investigation Discovery network shows. And what was so crazy was that I didn’t even go straight to the appetizers like I normally do to set off a red flag that I might be renegading the party for the sake of snacks. Then I saw the police slowly ease into the vicinity as she steady charged me up about my claims that I belong at the party. I can’t confirm that they were coming to escort me out if I was to pose a problem, but that’s what it felt like. Another woman politely tried to do research to find out if my name was on the list and where I was supposed to be, but I decided that it was anywhere but there. So I skipped out of there like those police had started chasing me. I don’t blame Orlando for this and based on what I saw on social media it was a smashing success. He had all the right people there, including some of my radio faves like Mousie Haley and Tammie Holland from 100.3 The Beat. Tiffany Foxx, DT Scar Ladon and Aloha were in the house too as well as many others. Too bad one overzealously rude human ruined any real review from me. Maybe next year I’ll be treated like a guest instead of an escaped fugitive. Soul in Bloom. Okay, now that I have that off my chest I can proceed. After I left Union Station I made my way to partake in the return of Vanita Applebum’s Suite Soul Spot concert series. This go round she’s housed at the intimate Kranzberg Arts Center stage and the re-launch show was absolutely delicious! I’ve found and fell in love with so many artists that she’s hosted over the years and Sunday night was no different. I had never heard of ISH before they took the stage, but by the time the real-life couple finished their set I was a bonafide fan. They reminded me of a young Kindred The Family Soul but with actual romantic chemistry. I had heard of Timothy Bloom, but I’ve resorted to watching the music video that features him and singer V with nothing on their bodies but cameras over and over and quietly lurking on his social media pages. I didn’t think it could get any better when he started crooning and finessing that guitar. He was like Gary Clark Jr. with more soul and a shower. But baby, when he sat that guitar down and put in work on that piano, he melted my heart all over again. I can’t even begin to tell you how eager I am to see what Vanita pulls out of her sleeve for the next show. My only note is that the master of ceremonies for the evening takes it down a notch from “host doing the most” to “host with the most.”

Kimberly, Siglindy, and Tiffany Foxx were among the many stunners on the scene Sunday for Rockhouse’s I’m A Survivor All White Gala and Cancer Awareness Benefit

AKAs in the day. The AKAs threw their pinkies into the Sunday Day Party Game with a gathering at The Office. I knew it was going to be cracking when I rolled up, because the neighboring Family Dollar store’s lot was packed like it was Black Friday – with luxury automobiles and pink and green plate decals of course. Say what you want about the AKAs, but on Sunday afternoon they proved that they were not to prissy to party. Those pretty girls got down! And when Too Short’s “Blow the Whistle” came on, it was all the way live up in that Office! And folks were still piling in at 7 p.m. Though the crowd seemed a bit younger than their Omega Center gatherings, there were sorors from a few generations up in their getting their stroll on.

WWW.STLAMERICAN.COM

Floetry eve. Now I know I’ve gone hard with pumping up their return to the Pageant stage tomorrow evening (Friday, June 19), but I can’t tell you how excited I am to see what Floetry will be bringing for our enjoyment. I’m sure it will be draped in awesome sauce.

Cornell Boone showed love to his wife DJ Jo Prima while she spun the classic jams Sudan @ Union Station for Rockhouse’s I’m A Survivor All White Gala and Cancer Awareness Benefit

Ms. Edwards and Ms. Jones @ Union Station Sunday for Rockhouse’s I’m A Survivor All White Gala and Cancer Awareness Benefit

India and Latrice @ Umbrella’s Group We Own the Night event @ Soho Saturday

Chyna and Jalysa were in their element Saturday @ The Marquee

Photos by Lawrence Bryant & John Scott

Congratulations to the Class of 2015 Graduates!

Congratulations to the Class of 2015 Graduates! Annual Special Section

Congratulations, Graduates! “If we want America to lead in the 21st century, nothing is more important than giving everyone the best education possible — from the day they start preschool to the day they start their career.” —President Barack Obama

We couldn’t agree more. In that spirit, The St. Louis American is proud to showcase 2015 area graduates, from pre-school through graduate school. While negative news about African Americans and education rates and failing school districts seem to gain a lot of attention in the mainstream media, there ‘are’ many positive stories in our community. There ‘are’ many students who are achieving, many at a very high level. It is in the interest of all to educate better all of our children especially

realizing the great potential of AfricanAmerican youth whose contributions are vital to the future of this region and the nation. We are proud to highlight these successful students as part of our mission: a commitment to foster quality education. This annual special section aligns well with our award-winning Newspaper In Education program targeted to elementary students, and our annual Salute to Excellence in Education program which honors indispensable educators, while raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for local scholarships each year for deserving students. We salute this year’s graduates and their achievement as well as their family members and their teachers, and share President Obama’s belief that nothing is more important than giving everyone the best education possible.

Congratulations to the Class of 2015 Graduates! Brittany Childress Webster University Degree: Masters in Health Administration Parent(s); Karen Heggins

Morgan Bosman

D’era D. Hall

Belmont University (Nashville, TN)

University of Phoenix

Degree: BBA, Music Business

Degree: Master’s in Business

Parent(s): Dwight and Cenia Bosman

Parent(s): Celeste Berry

Portia J. Britt

DeVon Justin Haynes

University of Missouri School of Law (Columbia, MO)

Talladega College Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Fine Arts

Degrees: Juris Doctor, Master of Public Administration

Parent(s): James A. Haynes and Robin R. Britt

Parent(s): Robin R. Britt

Brian Anthony Brown

Robert J. Irvin

Brown University (Providence, R.I.) Degree: Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry

Covenant Theological Seminary Degree: Master of Arts in Counseling

Next Step: One year internship followed by grad school to pursue a Master’s degree Parent(s): Wendell and Rosa Brown

Congratulations to the Class of 2015 Graduates! Taylar I. Merriweather

Anthony Darryl Jones

University of Missouri-St. Louis

Lindenwood University (December 2015)

Degree: Bachelor’s in Business Administration

Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice

Next Step: College Advisor for Sikeston High and Junior High, Cheerleading coach Parent(s): Angela Allen, Julius Merriweather

Next Step: Pursue a career in criminal law Parent(s): Lee and Lillian Haywood (grandparents)

Daniel T. Jones

Kaylyn Moore

University of Missouri Columbia

University of Missouri-St. Louis, Honors College

Degrees: BS in Business Administration, BS in Hospitality Management

Degree: Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, Summa Cum Laude Next Step: Kaylyn will be preparing for the MCAT and continue working on a research project. Parent(s): Sylvia Elaine Woodson and Fred Woodson, Jr.

Parent(s): Darryl and Villa Jones

Shelton Long

Kynedra Ogunnaike

University of South Dakota

Maryville University

Degree: Bachelor of Science

Degree: Doctorate in Educational Leadership Next Step: Professional Academic Guidance Counselor at St. Louis Public Schools

Alexandria Marie McCuien

Cara Bria Patterson

Webster University

Southeast Missouri State University, Dean’s List

Degree: Master of Business Administration, Graduate Certificate in Decision Support Systems

Degree: Hospitality Management Next Step: Internship at Disney World in Orlando, FL, working at the Animal Kingdom

Parent(s): Jacque’ McCuien

Parent(s): Harlyn and Carolyn Patterson

Congratulations to the Class of 2015 Graduates! Armod Rainey

Kristopher J. Scruggs

Forest Park Community College

St. Louis University School of Law Degree: Juris Doctor Degree (J.D.)

Degree: Radiology Next Step: Taking the Bar Exam in July Next Step: Pursue credentials in sonography and interventional radiology

Parent(s): Synobia Cogshell and Kenneth Scruggs

Parent(s): Diane and Joseph Rainey

Gabrielle Reed

Nekea Smith

St Louis Community College at Florissant Valley

University of Missouri-Kansas City Degree: Bachelor of Arts Psychology, Cum Laude

Degree: Associate in Applied Science Parent(s): Jan Sanders-Smith

Brian Temple Jr.

Jahbrielle Ayana Henning-Rayford

Kansas State University Degree: Masterâ€™s Degree in Architecture

Howard University (Washington D.C.) Degree: Bachelor of Arts, Magna Cum Laude

Parent(s): Brian and Julia Temple

Next Step: Jahbrielle plans to pursue a career in television production. Parent(s); Bishop C. Garnett Henning and Earnestine Lee-Henning (grandparents)

Rebecca L. Rodgers

Megan Lynette Sue Temple

Lindenwood University Degree: Master of Arts in Education with an emphasis in Educational Technology

Harris-Stowe State University Degree: Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies

Next Step: Continue teaching at TCU/ IAM Advanced Training Program

Next Steps: Pursuing a career in teaching Parent(s): Willie and Claudette Temple

Parent(s): The late Nadine & William Rodgers, Jr.

Congratulations to the Class of 2015 Graduates! Jamala Wallace

Brandon J. Williams

Saint Louis University

Ranken Technical College

Parent(s): Evelyn and Joseph Wallace

Degree: Certification in Precision Machining Technology

Larce Christopher Wells University of Missouri-Columbia Degree: Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Parent(s): Catherine McIntyre Barnes, Lawrence Wells

Congratulations to the Class of 2015 Graduates!

Congratulations to the Class of 2015 Graduates! Samayah Latrice Brown Kirkwood High School Next Step: St. Louis Community College Meramec Parent(s): Lawanda & Toto

El-Shaddi E. Ackles

Mikayla J. Burt

University City High School

Miller Career Academy

Next Step: Southeast Missouri State to major in Psychology

Next Step: Attending Murray State University in Murray, KY in fall 2015 to major in pre-pharmacy

Parent(s): Nicola C. Ackles; grandparents, George and Naomi Ackles; aunt, Carmen Ackles

Parent(s): Roland and Kymberly Burt

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Omicron Theta Omega Chapter ASCEND Graduation

Evan C. Coleman-Cobb DeSmet Jesuit High School

Kristin Williams, Morgan Mackey (Chairman), Graduates Shaila Jones and Alissa Calloway, Twinette Johnson (Chairman), Graduates Brenâ€™nae Mccoy and Bruce Doss, Carmen Moore

Next Step: Benedictine University (Lisle, IL) to major in International Business Parent(s): Clarissa Cobb-Fritz

Joyia Brooks

Antonio Cooper Jr.

Ladue Horton Watkins High School

Clayton High School

Next Step: Harris-Stowe State University

Next Step: Attending Mineral Area College in fall 2015

Parent(s): Don Brooks Parent(s): Eboni Harris-Whittaker and Antonio Cooper Sr., Marlowe Tulloch (grandparent)

Congratulations to the Class of 2015 Graduates!

Congratulations to the Class of 2015 Graduates! Alexis Dunbar

Chayla Graham

Jennings High School

McCluer South-Berkeley High School Next Step: Philander Smith College Parent(s): Rev. Clifton and Carla Graham

Maya Fisher Dunlap

Amaris Milan Hairston

Metro Academic and Classical High School

Hazelwood Central High School Next Step: University of Missouri-Kansas City

Next Step: The University of Tulsa, fall 2015, Presidential Scholar

Parent(s): Darrell and Natalia Hairston Parent(s): Marsha N. Fisher MD, Carlos L. Dunlap

Braennan Farrar

Brittany Hayes

Miller Career Academy (Class of 2014)

Westminster Christian Academy

Next Step: Attending Morgan State University in Baltimore to pursue a degree in Accounting

Next Step: Illinois College Parent(s): Marion Hayes, Rhona Hayes

Parent(s): Christopher Faraar and Shanda King Faraar

Elyse Ahbrielle Gilmore

Bria R. Heard

Webster Groves High School, Magna Cum Laude

Clyde C. Miller Career Academy Next Step: Lindenwood University

Next Step: University of MissouriColumbia to pursue a degree in Elementary Education

Parent(s): Brian Heard and Stephanie Callicott

Parent(s): Tony and Treena Gilmore

Congratulations to the Class of 2015 Graduates! Mark D. Raymond Jr.

Amani R. King

Pattonville High School

Cardinal Ritter College Prep High School

Next Step: Will attend Missouri University of Science and Technology to study Computer Science in Rolla, MO

Next Step: Lincoln University (Jefferson City, MO) Parent(s): Al and Wendy Anderson El

Parent(s): Kenya Terry, sister, Karolyn Terry

Devon Morris Jr.

Kyla Deâ€™Jour Robinson

Hazelwood East High School

Pattonville High School

Next Step: Devon received a track and field scholarship to Missouri Baptist University, where he plans to study Law/Criminal Justice.

Next Step: University of Central Missouri to pursue a major in Nursing Parent(s): Yamika Forest

Thomas Paden

Bianca Smith

Marquette High School

Ladue Horton Watkins High School

Next Step: Thomas will pursue a music degree in college. Parent(s): Melvin & Melva Paden Moore, Demarius Hicks & Temeka Hicks-Jackson

Jordan Elizabeth Parker

Cortez D. Stewart

St. Louis Christian Academy

Clayton High School

Next Step: Tennessee State University to pursue a degree in Sports Medicine

Next Step: Attending Arkansas State University Parent(s): Don and Kelley Stewart

Parent(s): Cecil Parker and Traci Jones

Congratulations to the Class of 2015 Graduates! Michael George Strawbridge

Imani Welch

John Burroughs

Cardinal Ritter College Prep

Next Step: Attending Beloit University in Wisconsin to study Law

Parent(s): Kenyatta Patrick-Griffin (mother), Clarence Griffin (stepfather)

Parent(s): Michael and Michelle Strawbridge

Keith Anthony Thomas Jr.

Christopher Alexander Zomphier

Hazelwood Central High School

Cardinal Ritter College Prep High School

Next Step: University of Illinois at Chicago to pursue a major in Architecture/Engineering

Next Step: Texas Southern University to pursue a major in Business/Marketing

Parent(s): Keith and Erica Thomas

Parent(s): Christopher Zomphier Sr. and Michael & Angela Burgess

Robert C. Watkins III Hazelwood Central High School Next Step: The University of Kentucky Parent(s): Robert and Emily Watkins

The St. Louis American Congratulates all of the

2015 Graduates!

Jazmyne Blanchard, Class of 2015

PPPPPPPPP 13

Congratulations to the Class of 2015 Graduates! Mikenzie R. Burt McKinley Junior Classical Academy Next Step: Attending Metro Leadership Academy in fall 2015 Parent(s): Roland and Kymberly Burt

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc, Omicron Theta Omega Chapter, Emerging Young Leaders

Karrington Green Wydown Middle School

Alyssiah Santano, Karlisa McGee and Chaniya Cousin

Parent(s): Kim Williams and Percy Green III

Next Step: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc ASCEND Program

Devyan Morris Hazelwood East Middle School Next Step: Hazelwood East High School

Need Help with College Plans? St. Louis Graduates’ High School to College Center is ready to help for FREE with college counseling and financial aid advice over the summer. CALL

 E-MAIL

 STOP IN

(314) 932-6956

Joshua Edward Sutton

info@stlouisgraduates.org No appointment necessary 618 N. Skinker Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63112 Open June 1 – July 31 (closed Sundays and July 3 & 4) Hours: Mon. – Fri. 10 am to 3 pm, Sat. 9 am to 12 noon

www.StLouisGraduates.org

HStoCollegeCenter

MICDS Next Step: Joshua will continue at MICDS for high school.

STLGraduates

Parent(s): Edward and Karla Sutton The High School to College Center is made possible by: College Bound, Deaconess Foundation, 501creative, Monsanto Company, Equifax, The Scholarship Foundation of St. Louis, Sigma-Aldrich Corporation, Greater St. Louis Community Foundation, United Way of Greater St. Louis, Washington University in St. Louis and dozens of area counselors.

Congratulations to the Class of 2015 Graduates! Legacy Jackson Wedgewood Elementary School (Kindergarten) Next Step: KIPP Wisdom Academy Parent(s): Dr. Kynedra Ogunnaike and Ralph Jackson, Jr.

Be sure to check out the St. Louis American’s various social media channels for behind-the-scenes footage, exclusive photos and other related coverage.

Madison Moore St. Roch School (Kindergarten) Parent(s): Melvin Moore and Melva Paden Moore

Twitter: @stlouisamerican • Facebook.com/Stlouisamerican Youtube: St. Louis American • Instagram: @stlouisamerican

Congratulations theClass Class 2015 Graduates! Congratulations to to the of of 2014 Graduates!

20 16

Page 2

I am the first to admit that I’m obsessed with food. I’m obsessed with the taste of certain foods and definitely obsessed with how food has affected my family, patients, community, and country. My food obsession causes me to often wonder how did one of the richest and most powerful nations become such an unhealthy society? “Let food be thy medicine and medicine thy food.” Hippocrates It seems to me that Hippocrates never thought food would become part of such a heated debate and be the impetus behind the growing obesity epidemic. For me his words were obvious indications of the powerful capabilities of nature’s bounty if eaten the way it was intended to be eaten. What man has done to food, I’m sure would disgust the very soul of this great Greek physician who was considered the father of medicine. Before industrialization, around the time of the early 1900’s, most meals were prepared at home and consisted of foods grown within an individual’s own garden. Since most households did not have the luxury of electric refrigeration, foods with high spoilage rates like dairy were eaten in moderation. Within the

YOUR HEALTH MATTERS

Choosing to live

June 4 – 10, 2015

span of a couple of decades, the Dairy Associations. Those refrigerators and the increased unbelievable numbers are also numbers of women in the related to the large number of workforce began to change meals eaten away from home the landscape of the family and the wide variety of convedining experience. nience foods that are available The 1950’s ushered in to consumers. Increased sugar the era of the TV dinner and intake has also been well docfast food restaurants like umented and continues to be a McDonald’s, Burger King, growing problem. and Wendy’s. Kentucky Cholesterol is a naturally Fried Chicken, which actuoccurring wax-like substance ally began at a gas station in found in animal tissues. When Corbin, Kentucky, is now the this product builds up in blood Denise Hooks most popular Western fast vessels, atherosclerosis develAnderson, M.D. food chain in China. There ops which can cause heart disare actual studies that can ease. In 1994, at 23 years of demonstrate the deleterious health effect age, my total cholesterol was over 200. on families in China who started conAt the time, I had no known diseases suming less traditional Eastern diets but such as high blood pressure or diabetes more Western diets. In particular, cancer but I was overweight and sluggish. My rates rose significantly. diet consisted of various processed foods, In 2000, Americans ate 57 more sugary beverages, fried foods and minipounds of meat a year as compared to the mal amounts of exercise. As my medical knowledge increased, 1950’s per the USDA. But those numbers I slowly began making some lifestyle pale in comparison to the increase seen modifications which at first seemed in the average consumption of cheese impossible for this Southern-born girl which grew from 7.7 pounds per person who grew up on a meat rich diet. We to 29.8 representing a 287% increase ate meat with every meal and probably during that same time frame. Some wonder whether or not that increase was for a snack. I’m ashamed to say it but I a result of the powerful lobbying from remember snacking on canned meats as well and who knows what those products contained in them. But in 2001, I made a radical dietary change and decided to stop eating red

meat and pork. I had just been diagnosed with lupus and I felt horrible: joints were stiff and ached, I was tired, and I looked horrible. Lupus, an autoimmune disease, was attacking my body and slowly destroying my organs. With only that small change, my total cholesterol went from being in the 200’s to about 140. My joints hurt less and energy levels increased. Friends teased me about my excellent cholesterol numbers and even accused me of secretly taking Lipitor, a cholesterol-lowering agent. I have continued my “want-to-live” campaign by eliminating chicken and turkey from my diet and drastically limiting dairy. I have lost weight, my skin is clearer, and my digestive tract has never been better. So my challenge to readers is to consider the types of food you consume on a daily basis. Did your breakfast consist of processed ingredients? Was lunch consumed at a place that provided toys with the meal? If the answers were affirmative, then changes are needed now. Please join me in the “want-to-live” campaign and choose life! Yours in Service, Denise Hooks-Anderson, M.D. Assistant Professor SLUCare Family Medicine yourhealthmatters@stlamerican.com

Your Health Matters

A bi-monthly special supplement of the St. Louis American

June 18, 2015 Your Health Matters provides up-to-date information, from an African-American perspective, about one of the most important subjects in evryone’s life – their personal health. Donald M. Suggs, President and Publisher Kevin Jones, Senior Vice President, COO Dina M. Suggs, Senior Vice President Chris King, Editorial Director Denise Hooks Anderson, M.D., Medical Accuracy Editor Sandra Jordan, Health Reporter Debbie Chase, Director of Health Strategy & Outreach Onye Hollomon, Barb Sills, Pamela Simmons, Sales Michael Terhaar, Art/Production Manager Angelita Jackson, Cover Design Wiley Price, Photojournalist

St. Louis American The

YOUR HEALTH MATTERS

June 18 – 24, 2015

Page 3

Photo by Lawrence Bryant

The grand opening for the new 79,000 sq. ft., $24 million facility located at 1500 Park Avenue near downtown St. Louis took place Wednesday, June 10 on the unfinished third floor of the structure – a place reserved for expansion and further growth.

Grand opening!

AT Still, Affinia partner to increase dental care access in St. Louis By Sandra Jordan Of The St. Louis American AT Still University and Affinia Healthcare are partnering to help close the gap in access to dental care in St. Louis with the opening of the St. Louis Dental Education and Oral Health Clinic. The grand opening for the new 79,000 sq. ft., $24 million facility located at 1500 Park Avenue near downtown St. Louis took place Wednesday, June 10 on the unfinished third floor of the structure – a place reserved for expansion and further growth. On Monday, June 15, third-year dental students began taking care of patients the newly built oral health clinic operated by Affinia (formerly Grace Hill). Each

n On Monday, June 15, third-year dental students began taking care of patients the newly built oral health clinic operated by Affinia (formerly Grace Hill).

student can see two patients per day. The clinic has 92-dental chairs. The new clinic is expected to treat thousands of low-income residents in St. Louis annually, the result of $14 million for dental services included in the state budget for the fiscal year that starts July 1. The A.T. Still/Affinia Healthcare collaboration has been a few years in the making and the building was constructed

in less than a year. “The science, the literature, the research has shown that individuals who have poor oral health – missing teeth , decayed teeth, periodontal disease – gum disease, those individuals who have those chronic conditions in their mouth –those conditions actually have a bad and adverse effect on their overall health” said Dr. Christopher Halliday, dean of ATSU’s Missouri School of Dentistry

and Oral Health. “Dentistry has elevated to the point where it is considered integral with overall health. Through these partnerships, Affinia Healthcare, with A.T, Still University and all the programs throughout the state, we are going to all work together to make a positive, strong impact on not only the oral health of individuals we see in this facility, but also the overall, systemic health of those same individuals.” Alan Freeman, president CEO of Affinia Healthcare, said the federally qualified health clinic will see a wide variety of patients, “insured and uninsured patients at this location, as we do in our other locations.”

See AT STILL, page 5

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Healthy Recipe

Eggs with smoked sausage, spinach and tomatoes Serves 4 1 egg and 1/2 cup sausage mixture per serving This zesty breakfast dish also makes an excellent light lunch or dinner. The vegetables balance the smokiness of the sausage and the peppery hot sauce. 1/2 teaspoon canola or corn oil and 1 tablespoon canola or corn oil, divided use 4 ounces low-fat smoked turkey sausage, casings discarded, diced 4 large eggs 1/4 cup water 1 cup loosely packed spinach, coarsely chopped 1 cup grape tomatoes, quartered 2 tablespoons chopped fresh Italian (flatleaf) parsley or finely chopped green onions 1/4 teaspoon pepper 2 teaspoons mild Louisiana-style hot-pepper sauce In a large, heavy, nonstick skillet, heat 1/2 teaspoon oil over medium heat, swirling to coat the bottom. Cook the sausage for 5 minutes, or until beginning to brown lightly, stirring occasionally. Transfer to a small plate. Meanwhile, crack the eggs into a bowl. Don’t beat them. Reduce the heat to medium low. In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon oil, swirling to coat the bottom. Slide the eggs, one at a time, into the skillet. Cook for 1 minute. Pour the water into the skillet (not directly over the eggs). Sprinkle the eggs with the sausage, spinach, tomatoes,

parsley, pepper, and hot-pepper sauce. Cook, covered, for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the egg whites are cooked. Nutrition Analysis (per serving) Calories 168 Total Fat 11.5 g Saturated Fat 3.0 g Trans Fat 0.0 g Polyunsaturated Fat 2.5 g

Monounsaturated Fat 5.0 g Cholesterol 201 mg Sodium 362 mg Carbohydrates 5g Fiber 1 g Sugars 3 g Protein 11 g Dietary Exchanges 1 vegetable, 1 1/2 lean meat, 1 fat

This recipe is reprinted from AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION GRILL IT, BRAISE IT, BROIL IT. Copyright ©2015 by American Heart Association. Photos by Lucy Schaeffer. Published by Clarkson Potter/Publishers, an imprint of Penguin Random House LLC. Available from booksellers everywhere.

Saint Louis University reacquires hospital from Tenet; gives to SSM Health

Saint Louis University is purchasing SLU Hospital from Tenet Healthcare and will contribute it to SSM Health St. Louis in exchange for a minority membership interest – which includes a financial interest and governance rights – in SSM Health St. Louis. SSM Health St. Louis will own and operate the hospital and SLU Hospital employees will become SSM Health St. Louis employees. Doctors, health care practitioners and staff from Saint Louis University’s

physician practice, SLUCare Physician Group, will continue to be employed by the University and will continue practicing at their current care sites. Fred P. Pestello, Ph.D., president of Saint Louis University, said, “Partnering with SSM Health, its medical group and extensive network of high-quality community-based services will strengthen our SLUCare practice and give the University’s physicians a greater opportunity to provide excellent advanced medical care to more people in the com-

munity.” While SSM Medical Group and SLUCare Physician Group will remain legally separate, the two will work together to share best practices and clinical expertise that further enhance care for all patients. William P. Thompson, president and CEO of SSM Health, said the integrated partnership will provide the entire community with more coordinated access to care. “Patients will be able to conveniently access all levels of care within SSM

Health, from the high-quality, community-based care provided by SSM Health physicians, hospitals, and outpatient sites to more medically complex care, including a Level 1 trauma center and nationally recognized liver, kidney and bone marrow transplant programs provided by SLUCare specialists at SLU Hospital.” The transaction between SSM Health and Saint Louis University is expected to be finalized by late summer subject to regulatory approvals. The financial terms were undisclosed.

YOUR HEALTH MATTERS

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Profile in Health

Dental student interested in oral surgery Name: Daryl Grigsby, Jr. Position/Where: student doctor at Missouri School of Dental and Oral Health, AT Still University Honors: Regents Merit Scholar at Prairie View Education: Ross University School of Medicine, Dominica, West Indies Undergraduate, Prairie View A& M University, Prairie View, Texas (outside of Houston), graduating with a major in biology and a minor in chemistry Personal: Still in St. Louis, are my mother, my sister and her three children as well as her husband; and I also have two brothers here. My other siblings and my father live in Atlanta. St. Louis Connection: I was born in St. Louis in the midtown area – Blumeyer Projects and

later on, I moved to Florissant, Mo. and went to high school at Hazelwood East.

that patients were being taken care of immediately. There is always monitoring the patient’s health and the success Journey to success: of your work, but you As a Regents Merit can always have the Scholar, each summer, patient leave feeling we would have to do a fulfilled. And then, merit program. During as well as the artistry one of those programs, in it and being able to I did research on lasers, work with my hands, it which was published in was kind of all suited two articles. for what I enjoy in my I didn’t become everyday life. That’s interested in dentisthow I really became ry until later on after interested in dentistry, that. The head of the because I saw that all biology department of my interests were kind of wanted us all wrapped up in that one Photo by Lawrence Bryant to go into medicine, so career, as well as helpthat’s where my focus ing people. Daryl Grigsby, Jr. was. That led me to AT Still was one medical school for of the schools that I two years. And then, while I was on a applied to when I was applying for dental break from medical school, that’s when I school. I saw that it was a new school became interested in dentistry. I thought in Missouri, and being that the last two

years would be spent in St. Louis, that was something that really attracted me to the school – being able to come home and help the people in St. Louis as well as being able to see my family here, because I move around so much, it’s not often that I get to see them. It would be a great opportunity to see my family and help St. Louis at the same time. I plan on specializing. I am really interested in oral surgery at the moment. I do have a secondary interest in endodontics (root canals) but what I am really enjoying is oral surgery. With the residency program, you kind of go where you get accepted, so that’s where I’ll be for the duration of that time. And I do plan on coming back to St. Louis after that. What’s really exciting to me about the industry is some of the research they are doing, especially with stem cells and growing new teeth. I think that would be great as far as being able to not just give a patient implants, but being able to put a real tooth that’s from them – from their own stem cells into their mouth and make them whole.

County health department gets new name On Friday, June 5, the Saint Louis County Department of Health officially became the Saint Louis County Department of Public Health – the addition of the word “public” emphasizing its new focus. In a released statement, the department will continue operating three primary care health centers that offer medical and dental services, with a new emphasis on addressing the physical, mental,

AT STILL Continued from page 3

School officials said about 10 percent of its inaugural class of 42 third-year dental school students are from underrepresented minority groups. There one African American student in this particular class. The school hopes student diversity numbers will continue to increase. “As we are establishing here in St. Louis, we’d like to reach out to community members in the city of St. Louis and surrounding communities; I’d like our dental students to be Big Brothers,

emotional, and social health needs of the entire county using a prevention-based model, while doing so at a lower cost to the taxpayer. “It is better – and often cheaper – to prevent health problems from occurring than to treat them after they have developed,” said Dr. Faisal Khan, director of the Department of Public Health. Part of the effort includes adopting a “health-in-all-policies” approach – a

process to consider the potential health effects of policy decisions, with the goal being the continual adjustment of policies to maximize health benefits. By combining the use of prevention-based models with a “health-in-allpolicies” approach, the department says it will be able to better target community health concerns that have socio-economic dimensions to them, including chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabe-

tes, mental health and substance abuse issues, and the prevalence of sexually-transmitted infections in the region. As part of the new focus, Khan has initiated an internal re-organization to better align activities with the new emphasis on public health. A new division of health promotion and research has been created that will directly focus on public outreach, community education, and community intervention.

Big Sisters to young folks and encourage young folks from communities in and around St. Louis to consider a career in dentistry,” Halliday said. “So it’s 10 percent at this time. My goal is through networking in the communities; the schools – help raise that number.” Dr. Craig Phelps, president at A.T. Still University, said the new clinic will bring oral health services not normally available that patients need. The school has a Smile Forward fund to assist with those services. “It will actually cover the cost of the equipment and the cost of the time of individuals to do a procedure that normal-

ly couldn’t be done here,” Phelps said. “For example, we have a wheelchair lift … it’s very unusual to find in a dental facility. That will help individuals confined to a wheelchair to receive dental treatment without having to be transferred from a wheelchair to a dental chair. You may say that’s convenient, but it’s a huge safety factor. There are huge concerns for dental clinics transferring a patient from a wheelchair to a dental chair, because they may slip and may fall,” Halliday described. “We also have special dental chairs that are able to accommodate people who are larger size than most dental chairs can accommodate. We offer comprehensive dentistry in this clinic … so

every aspect of dentistry will be offered in this clinic. That’s our obligation to make sure every dental student is trained in comprehensive dentistry, but it’s also a service to the community.” After two years of study at A.T. Still’s campus in Kirksville, dental students will train at the St. Louis clinic, working directly with patients under the supervision of ATSU’s dental faculty. In their fourth year, ATSU administrators said dental students will go around the state to 14 health centers that have requested their services, starting in about a year. For more information, visit atsu.edu or http://affiniahealthcare.org.

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Calendar Fri. June 19, 7:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m., Toxic Stress & Trauma in Our Region, the annual NAHSE Health Disparities Symposium In Partnership with the St. Louis Regional Health Commission. BJC Learning Institute, Lower Level Auditorium, 8300 Eager Rd., St. Louis 63144. Cost is free; includes a light breakfast. RSVP to nahseSTL@gmail.com. Fri. June 19-Sun. June 21, Camp Catch-Ya-Breath, YMCA of the Ozarks, 13528 State Hwy AA, Potosi, Mo. It is a free, weekend camp that helps children learn about their asthma and how to control it. Applications are due June 1.For an application, call 573-882-8034, email breathe@ missouri.edu or visit http://shp. missouri.edu/rt/asthma_camp1/ pdf/CamperApp.pdf. Sun. June 20, 7:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., 19th Annual Fatherhood Walk/5K Run and Rally by the Fathers’ Support Center, St. Louis, Tower Grove Park, Grand Ave entrance. 5K registration at 7:30 and run begins at 8:30; Walk registration 8:30 and begins at 10 a.m. Onsite prostate cancer screening; education and employment booth, literacy, art, games for all ages. To register, visit http://bit.ly/1MlDIPB. Tues., June 23, 4 p.m. - 6 p.m., Alive and Well STL Producer’s meeting at Center for Emerging Technologies@CIC, 20 S. Sarah St., St. Louis, 63108.Shape the stories of Alive and Well by telling us who inspired you to be Alive and Well. RSVP by email to rtakeyama@stlrhc.org or online at http://bit.ly/1MjcSHF. Thurs., June 25, 6:30 – 8 p.m., “A Night with the Girls,” St. Clare Health Center, Fenton, Mo. Father Jim Krings Conference Center. The event is an opportunity for women to have their most personal questions answered by a group of women’s health experts, all while enjoying some much deserved pampering. Space is limited to this free event. Register by calling 1-866-7763627. Mon., July 20, 12:30 p.m., 27th

Annual Asthma & Allergy Foundation – STL Golf Classic, Persimmon Wood Golf Course, Weldon Spring, Mo. 12:30 pm shotgun start; 6:30 pm Caddyshack and Cocktails reception. For more information, visit aafastl.org. Sat., Aug. 1, 6 p.m., Larry D. Bonds Foundation 4 Life Heart & Vascular Educational Fund Raiser, Norwood Hills Country Club, 63121. Kentucky Derby attire, dinner, drinks, entertainment and fantasy horse racing. For more information, visit http:// www.larrydbonds.org/#home. Fridays & Saturdays, 11 am – Noon, Get Pumped! Free Slide/ Zumba classes, O’Fallon Park Recreation Complex YMCA, 4343 W. Florissant Ave. 63115. Sundays, 10 a.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous Group 109 meets in the 11th floor conference room at Christian Hospital, 11133 Dunn Road at I-270/Hwy. 367. This is an open meeting for alcoholics, drug addicts and their family and friends. Mondays, 7 p.m. – “Tobacco Free for Life” support group – free weekly meetings at St. Peters Mo. City Hall. Supported by SSM Cancer Care; RSVP initial participation to 636-947-5304. Tuesdays, 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. – Alcohol and Drug Informational meeting, Christian Hospital, Professional Office Building 2, Suite 401. For information, call 314-839-3171. Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. – STEPS Schizophrenia Support Group This nationally recognized program provides education and support for those with schizophrenia. Group is facilitated by an experienced STEPS nurse. For more information, call 314-839-3171. Free psychiatric and chemical dependency evaluations are confidential at the Christian Hospital Center for Mental Health. Call 314-839-3171.

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Health Resources Asthma Free asthma and allergy clinic by Saint Louis University students at the HRC, every other Wednesday afternoon 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. by appointment with SLU physician Dr. Raymond Slavin. The clinic offers allergy skin tests, pulmonary function tests and asthma and allergy education. It is located in the Victor Roberts Building, 1408 N. Kingshighway, between Martin Luther King Drive and Page Blvd. For more information, call 314-720-1522. Behavioral Christian Hospital offers free and confidential psychiatric and chemical dependency evaluations at the Christian Hospital Center for Mental Health. For more information, call 314-839-3171. Christian Hospital Key Program offers support and education to patients with chronic mental illness to prevent increased severity of symptoms and to reduce the need for inpatient re-hospitalization. Call confidentially to 314-8393171 or 1-800-447-4301. Crime Victim Advocacy Center pro-

vides no cost support for persons affected by criminal acts. Email peggy@supportvictims.org, visit or call the 24-hour hotline 314-OK-BE-MAD (652-3673) or visit www.supportvictims.org.

Diabetes CHIPS Diabetes Support Group is open to anyone and meets on Wednesday evenings from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. For more information, call 314-652-9231.

Bike helmet safety The St. Louis County Health Department provides free bicycle helmets to St. Louis County residents between ages 1 and 17 by appointment only. Proof of residency is required. For the location nearest you, visit www. tinyurl.freebikehelmets.

SSM St. Mary’s Health Center provides free, Diabetes Support Group sessions the second Tuesday of every month from 6 – 7 p.m. to address health management issues. It’s located at Meeting Room 1 on the second floor, 6420 Clayton Rd. in St. Louis. To register, call toll free 866-SSM-DOCS (866-776-3627).

Breast Cancer Gateway to Hope offers no-charge medical and reconstructive treatment for uninsured breast cancer patients in Missouri. Contact 314-569-1113.

Fresh Food Coop Community Helpings Coop sells fresh fruits, vegetables and other foods at wholesale prices in locations throughout the St. Louis area and Metro-East. For more information, visit www.communityhelpingscoop.com.

Dental Free Dental Hygiene Clinic - No charge dental exams, x-rays, cleanings and other dental services for children and adults provided by dental students at Missouri College. Patients needing more extensive dental work (fillings, crowns, etc.) will be referred to local dentists. For information, call 314-768-7899.

Health Partnerships The Center for Community Health and Partnerships: Building Bridges for Healthy Communities works to develop and support beneficial community-academic partnerships to address the health needs of the St. Louis. For more information, email publichealth@wustl.edu; phone 314-747-9212 or visit publichealth. wustl.edu. Information Missouri 2-1-1 offers referral and information on a wide range of social service and helpful resources. Call 2-1-1. Lupus A Lupus Support Group in North St. Louis County meets the third Thursday of the month from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in Community Room #1 at Northwest Health Care, 1225 Graham Rd. in Hazelwood. RSVP to the Lupus Foundation of America at 314-644-2222 or email info@lfaheartland.org. Medical CHIPS Health & Wellness Center offers no cost medical, dental, psychiatric, chiropractic health care for uninsured children and adults by appointment only. $25 annual fee requested. For more information, call 314-652-9231 or visit www. chipsstl.org. Boys & Girls Clubs Dental & Vision Clinic at Herbert Hoover Club, 2901 N. Grand, St. Louis. Open year-round for members at no additional fee by appointment only. Teeth cleaning, braces, x-rays, root canals, some extractions; vision mobile unit, comprehensive exam and glasses, if required. Make an appointment by calling 314-355-8122. Salam Free Saturday Clinic, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Isom Community Center at Lane Tabernacle CME Church, 916 N.

Newstead, St. Louis, Mo. for those who are uninsured. For more information, call 314-533-0534. Nutrition Food Outreach provides food, meals and nutritional education/ counseling to eligible persons living with HIV/AIDS or cancer in St. Louis. For more information, call 314-652-3663 or visit www. foodoutreach.org. St. Louis Milk Depot - SSM Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital is a breast milk depot for the Indiana Mother’s Milk Bank. Milk Depot staff will store and ship your milk to IMMB. For more information, call (314) 242-5912. Prostate Cancer The Cancer Center of The Empowerment Network at 6000 W. Florissant in St. Louis provides information on prostate and other types of cancer, and services and support. For more information, call 314-385-0998. Prescription Cost Help Schnucks Pharmacies – now offers certain prescription prenatal vitamins for free and offers no-cost generic prescription antibiotics at select locations. Wal-Mart Pharmacies – offer select prescriptions for $4 or less for a 30-day supply or $10 for a 90-day supply. View the list at www.walmart.com/pharmacy. Respiratory Health Free lung function screening - Christian Hospital Breathing Center at Northwest HealthCare, 1225 Graham Rd. For more information, call 314-953-6040. Free flu shots for patients being treated for an illness or injury at Downtown Urgent Care (314-436-9300), North City Urgent Care (314-932-1213), Creve Coeur Urgent Care (314-548-6550) and Eureka Urgent Care (636-549-2100). Sexual Health St. Louis County Health Department offers free, confidential testing, counseling and treatment at the North Central Community Health Center, 4000 Jennings Station Road, St. Louis, MO 63121. For more information, call 314679-7800. The SPOT offers private, reproductive, mental and behavioral health services at no charge to youth ages 13-24, Monday – Friday, 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. at 4169 Laclede Ave. For more information, call 314-535-0413 or visit http:// thespot.wustl.edu. STI testing and treatment at North City Urgent Care and Downtown Urgent Care. For more information, call 314436-9300.

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