Arts today 4 12 by Arts Today Ezine

Vol 4.12

MARCH 29, 2018

Melvin

WRIGHT Featured Photographer pg #82

View this and past issues from our website.

Tonnette JONES Featured Model pg #121

A BLACK ...

SHE BUILT ...

CAMPAIGN...

pg. #8

pg. #20

pg.#28

VERONICA NEWTON

LINDA NANCE

COFFEE WRIGHT

Past Issues

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Panelists Dr. Afua Bromley to talk about the impact of violence and stress on women; Tempestt Tuggle to talk about how women interact with patriarchy violence. Open Mic! RafďŹ&#x201A;e Drawings! On-site Child Care! Networking! Calling Women Vendors-First Come, First Served! Call 314.367.5959 for more information.

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Volume 4.12 March 29, 2018

IN THIS

ISSUE:

IN THE NEWS We Grow...

A BLACK SOCIOLOGICAL... VERONICA NEWTON

28 ON THE CAMPAIGN TRAIL...... COFFEE WRIGHT

5 ESSENTIAL... COLTRANE CHARLIE BRAXTON

121

FEATURED MODEL TONNETTE WILLIAMS

FEATURED ARTIST JOHN K. BLAIR

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No major discipline problems

our mentorship program with Infinite Scholars, the Moline Acres Police Department wishes to the hopes and dreams of families in our community wishing to send their children to college. te Scholars program uses it extensive nationwide network of 500+ colleges and universities to ege scholarship for students who achieve the criteria above. The Moline Acres Police ent is committed to helping our students accomplish these criteria. The motto for this program dges Create Scholars.â&#x20AC;?

cres is located in North St. Louis County, Missouri. To learn more, contact the Moline Acres partment at 314-868-2433 or Infinite Scholars at 314-499-6997.

LIVE / WORK / PLAY NATE JOHNSON

OP/ED SECTION INFINITE SCHOLARS

Pictured are Moline Acres Chief of Police Colonel Ware, Police Officer Donaldson, and students Charmaine and Charles.

THE OTHER BLACKLIST MARIAH RICHARDSON

FEATURED ARTIST LARRY OTOO ...Listen people... Life is a giant, invisible scale with two sides; Good and bad You and your beliefs Are the weights The things you do each day Determine the balance Your conscience is a flawless Judge and jury; It only questions you when you're wrong...

The Temptations,

"You Make Your Own Heaven and Hell Right Here on Earth" (Regarding the last line of this quote from "You Make Your Own Heaven and Hell Right Here on Earth": "It only questions you when you're wrong" Sang by The Temptations on the recording. "The only question is what you want" Written by: BARRETT STRONG, NORMAN WHITFIELD, NORMAN J. WHITFIELD)

Established 2014 Volume 4.12 St. Louis, MO www.the-arts-today.com/ Layout/Design www.bdesignme.com

NOTE:

As the publishers of The Arts Today Ezine we take care in the production of each issue. We are however, not liable for any editorial error, omission, mistake or typographical error. The views expressed are those of the contributors and not necessarily those of their respective companies or the publisher.

This Ezine and the content published within are subject to copyright held by the publisher, with individual articles remaining property of the named contributor. Express written permission of the publisher and contributors must be acquired for reproduction.

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Volume 4.12 March 29, 2018

IN THE NEWS

Export Opportunities in the Americas: Brazil, Canada & Mexico TIME | DATE | PLACE 8:00 am registration 8:30-10:00 am program Thursday, December 7, 2017 Please note NEW ADDRESS: World Trade Center St. Louis 120 South Central Ave. Suite 1200 St. Louis, MO 63105 REGISTRATION $20 REGISTRATION One-on-one appointments available following the program.

Learn about export opportunities in three major markets in the Americas region. Brazil is recovering from recent political and economic upheaval and reforms have seen growth in the energy and agricultural sectors in particular. Canada's economy has enjoyed greater than expected growth, outpacing all other members of the G7. Mexico continues to offer a wide range of opportunities for US exporters from industrial equipment and inputs to agricultural products. Speakers: Mr. Fabio Yukio Yamada Director, Missouri International Trade & Investment Office - Brazil Mr. Ludovic Ortuno Director, Missouri International Trade & Investment Office - Canada Ms. Gloria Garcia Director, Missouri International Trade & Investment Office - Mexico Click here to view speaker bios and learn more.

Contact John Hensley to schedule.

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Your Source for Art Appreciation

Volume 2.1 March 4, 2015

St. Louis

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE APRIL 4TH | BERNIE HAYES ............................................................ pg. 130 ART OF FOOD | LENA O.A. JACKSON ............................................ pg. 138

ART OF HEALING | A.T.E.Z.

Please support our sponsors, many of-

fer events or programs with an emphasis on the arts and creativity.

.......................................... pg. 144

MANIFEST YOUR... | IYANDA SIJUADE ......................................... pg. 150 EPISTLE TO... | DR. JERRY WARD .................................................. pg. 160 OPPORTUNITIES | A.T.EZ ................................................................... pg. 166 CAREERS | A.T.EZ .................................................................................. pg. 168

#ArtsTodayEZ

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Volume 4.12 Volume 4.12 March 29, 2018 March 29, 2018

A Black Sociological Review of

Marvel's

BLACK PANTHER

A Black Sociological Review of Marvel’s Black Panther By. Veronica Newton

*This *ThisReview reviewContains contains Spoilers* spoilers

In case you’ve been living under a rock for the past week or so, Marvel’s movie Black Panther was an instant success, becoming the 5th highest grossing moving of all time! With a full Black cast, Black writers and producers, Black Panther the movie has brought African Americans so much Black joy opening weekend and continues to provide us with continuous Black joy this Black history month. Black Panther was a much-anticipated cultural phenomenon that African Americans and Marvel fans have longed for quite some time. For African Americans, Black Panther represents so much more than just a movie. Black Panther speaks to Black Americans in several different ways. Although Black Panther the movie has no direct relation to the Black Panther Party for Self-Defense (BPP), what they do have in common is the theme of Black Power. Black Power can be defined in a multitude of ways and can carry different meanings to different generations of people. Black Power can be defined as: a united Black Voice reflecting racial pride in the tradition of our heterogeneous nation; and a sense of identity, sense of culture, sense of selfworth…. A sense of belonging, sense of respect and dignity for ourselves (Joseph 2006). Black Panther the movie, provided a cultural Black Power perspective that united African Americans under the intentional or unintentional message of unity, racial pride, sense of identity and culture, and most importantly a sense of cultural belonging to the African Diaspora. Black Panther has provided African Americans the well-deserved opportunity to see people on screen who not just look like us, but we had the opportunity to see Blacks being in power of their own nation, their own schools, their own technology, government, economy and most importantly their own destinies – this is Black Power. The country of Wakanda provides a visual for a Black Utopia that African Americans can only dream of, which is one of the reasons why Black Panther is a favorite among African Americans and other Blacks of the African Diaspora. Wakanda is a country free of white colonizers and white colonial power and is a place, country and space where Black excellence has grown and blossomed allowing Wakandans to live their best Black lives without white disruption or supremacy. However, their utopia is disrupted when Killmonger, a half Wakandan and African American, played by Michael B. Jordan, makes his ruthless journey to Wakanda to take over the country to provide aid, assistance, and arm global Blacks with vibrainium to fight against white supremacy. Killmonger is probably the most complex and complicated character of the movie. His intentions to free Blacks all over the world from white supremacy, is an aspect of Black Power— to fight against international racism and other oppressed countries that are under the rule of white capitalism (Joseph 2006). This was a concept that Wakandans were hesitant to dive into because they have sustained their country by not involving themselves in international affairs. Wakandan’s political stance speaks to how the continent of Africa has been colonized and recolonized for centuries by Europeans and the Chinese; extracting the majority of Africa’s natural resources for the profit of other nations. Furthermore, their stance speaks to the oppression that

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African countries have experienced by white colonial rule. However, Nakia played by Lupita Nyoung’o, suggested that Wakanda should help global Blacks in need, as did Killmonger, but they clearly had different means to achieve this goal. This speaks to the multifaceted identity of Killmonger. Killmonger, attempts to take action to reconcile with his double consciousness. W.E.B. Dubois (1904) defines double consciousness as, “the sense of always looking at one’s self through the eyes of others, of measuring one’s soul by the tape of the world that looks on in amused contempt and pity. One ever feels their two-ness, an American, a Negro; two souls, two thoughts, two reconciled strivings; two warring ideals in one dark body whose dogged strength alone keeps it from being torn asunder.” However, for Killmonger his double consciousness is a reflection of him being half Wakandan and half African American. African and African American cultures are not the same, although some African traditions have been passed down to African Americans, such as fictive kinships for example, but in general African cultures are different from African American culture. In Killmonger’s case, he feels the tension between his two-ness as an African American and Wakandan. His double consciousness is what leads him to Wakanda to stake his claim to power of the country. The only problem with this charge is that he still had the mentality of the colonizers and utilized their ‘by any means necessary strategy’ to kill anyone who gets in his way, including Black and Wakandan women, to achieve power. This has been a colonial strategy for centuries and still is implemented by white colonial power today and is the ultimate downfall of Killmonger. Our hearts go out to Killmonger since we too (African Americans) experience double consciousness and long for a society free of white power. Although Black Panther is a Hollywood movie, it speaks to and represents what African Americans envision and want to achieve outside of the white American power structure. Black Panther’s cultural significance speaks to the importance of the Diaspora and Pan-Africanism. Furthermore, it flips stereotypical images of Blacks on its head, and for once we see Black women and men excelling on screen away from the white gaze of white supremacy. For example, Blackness as a race and cultural representation was not condemned or criminalized the way Blackness is typically portrayed in white films and television. The African cultural traditions, garbs, hairstyles, praising rituals and tag lines are a combination of many African cultures from West Africa (specifically Nigeria), South Africa and East Africa. Conclusively, Black Panther the movie, is a celebration of African culture, Black culture, and Black Power; while at the same time displaying the diversity within Blackness and the complexity of global Blackness. Additionally, this movie demonstrated double consciousness and African Americans yearning for actual Black Power. Black Panther centers and celebrates Black excellence, liberation, resistance, and shows us that Black Power is here to stay, even in Trump’s America. Ase! Sources: Du Bois, W. E. B., Henry Louis Gates, and Terri Hume Oliver. 1999. The Souls of Black Folk: Authoritative Text, Contexts, Criticism. 1st ed. New York: W.W. Norton. Joseph, Peniel E., ed. 2006. The Black Power Movement: Rethinking the Civil Rights-Black Power Era. New York: Routledge.

~Veronica Newton

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SCREENING #BlackPanther is now at over $700 million WORLDWIDE IN JUST TWO WEEKS, but a lot of folks in our communities, especially our working-class youth, cannot afford to see it. This is why people around the country are buying out theaters to host free screenings for local young people. I am really happy to announce that Brooklyn folks including filmmakers Spike Lee and Malcolm Lee, Borough President Eric Adams, New York City Public Advocate Tish James (after the mayor, she is the second highest ranking elected official in New York City), Congressman Hakeem Jeffries, Council member Jumaane Williams, Leah Daughtry (the 2016 CEO of the Democratic National Convention), philanthropist Lu-Shawn Thompson, and myself have collectively contributed funds to rent the 750-seat BAM Harvey Theater for youth who have been unable to see #BlackPanther due to their financial situations. The free screening will be on WED FEB 28, AND ALL TICKETS HAVE BEEN CLAIMED AND EVEN THE WAIT LIST IS FULL AT THIS POINT. The demand has been so HIGH that we are working to do a second free screening early the week of March 5th, for another 750 young people. But we cannot do it alone. Please make whatever donation you can to help us do this second screening, whether you live in Brooklyn or not. I have received so many messages from parents, teachers, principals, all kinds of educators and concerned citizens about the importance of this film, about the importance of our youth being able to see it. We are going to do our best to host that second screening the following week. Want to encourage folks around the country, if you have not done so already, to PLEASE offer free screenings of this film wherever you are, especially for youth 18 and under. There is so much here about race, gender, class, and diversity for young people and people of all ages and all backgrounds to discuss and dissect. Here is the link to DONATE for our second Brooklyn screening: https://www.gofundme.com/send-bk-kids-to-see-black-panther Sincerely, Kevin Powell

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www.newmusiccircle.org

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Judge Judy Draper presents

DIVERSITY TRAINING OPPORTUNITY Topic:

Privilege

Moderator:

Sheila Mapes, M.S.

Facilitators:

Members of the Judges Diversity and Inclusion Committee

Date:

Thursday, March 22, 2018

Time:

2:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Place:

Jury Assembly Room

The Judges Diversity and Inclusion Committee presents guest speaker Sheila Mapes, Sociologist and Race Relations Specialist. We are all privileged in some ways but not in others. For instance, some racial groups are less privileged due to policies imbedded in our system of education, housing, etc. At the end of this session, participants will be able to define privilege; articulate one’s own areas of privilege vs. non-privilege; increase listening skills and hear others’ stories of relative privilege while discerning between conversation and debate; and, identify how your perception of stereotypes has changed as a result of the information presented. All Staff are encouraged to attend.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Training Confirmation: “Privilege” Name:___________________________________ Date:

Thursday, March 22, 2018

Time:

2:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Manager Approval:_________________________

Telephone:_________________

Date:______________________

Please return your completed form to Matt Livasy in Human Resources by March 21, 2018.

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Volume 4.12 March 29, 2018

Would you like a printed copy(s) of an issue mailed to your home? Send your request to us by email **Remember to include the volume/issue** Cost may vary per issue.

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Volume 4.12 March 29, 2018

OP / ED SECTION

Moline Acres Police Department College Scholarship Program in partnership with Infinite Scholars Program

The Moline Acres Police Department College Scholarship Program wishes to acknowledge some of the students in our city that have accepted the promise of a college scholarship for accomplishing the following criteria: 1. 2. 3. 4.

95 percent school attendance 3.3 or better cumulative grade average 22 or better composite ACT score No major discipline problems

Through our mentorship program with Infinite Scholars, the Moline Acres Police Department wishes to help fulfill the hopes and dreams of families in our community wishing to send their children to college. The Infinite Scholars program uses it extensive nationwide network of 500+ colleges and universities to find a college scholarship for students who achieve the criteria above. The Moline Acres Police Department is committed to helping our students accomplish these criteria. The motto for this program is â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our Badges Create Scholars.â&#x20AC;? Moline Acres is located in North St. Louis County, Missouri. To learn more, contact the Moline Acres Police Department at 314-868-2433 or Infinite Scholars at 314-499-6997.

Pictured are Moline Acres Chief of Police Colonel Ware, Police Officer Donaldson, and students Charmaine and Charles.

pg.

Editorial Rebeccah Bennett TRUTH: This is not the first time that this country has been run by a bigot. It is not the first time that we have experienced political isolation and social rejection. Founder and principal of Emerging Wisdom LLC.

nd it is not the first time that we have had to figure out how to metabolize our grief and fear in ways that did not immobilize us, but caused us to actualize our power to change the world.

PERSPECTIVE:

Right

and forefathers lived through horrors that were generational in scope and scale. They persisted through times when there was little chance of a better tomorrow, much less a better life â&#x20AC;&#x201C; not even for their kids. Yet they responded to their lot in life by creating resistance movements, aid societies, educational and religious institutions, banks and co-ops, art forms, innovations and spiritual practices that continue to make our lives

better today. Remember that their blood is our blood. Their strength is our strength. They are the ROOTS and we are their FRUITS.

PRAYER:

We call upon our ancestors, those upon whom the sky fell. We call upon our ancestors who experienced all manner of degradation, humiliation, violation and death. We call upon our ancestors, people who swung from trees and were forced to live on their knees. We call upon our ancestors, many of whom persisted, survived and endured without destroying themselves or others. May whatever it is that nourished and sustained them come more fully alive in us. Ashe.

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Volume 4.12 March 29, 2018

pg.

MARCH 8 • 7pm Lee Auditorium • FREE Thursday

Registration required: mohistory.org/elizabeth-hinton

2018 PROGRAMS

PRESENTATION BOOK SIGNING

PRESENTED IN COLLABORATION WITH

Washington University Center for the Humanities Elizabeth Hinton, assistant professor in the department of history and the department of African and African American Studies at Harvard University, will deliver this presentation on her award-winning book. Named one of the New York Times’s 100 notable books of 2016, From the War on Poverty to the War on Crime examines the implementation of federal law enforcement programs in the mid-1960s that laid the groundwork for the mass incarceration of American citizens. The book will be available for purchase in the Missouri History Museum Shop.

Closes April 15 | Free admission

PRESENTED BY

SPONSORED BY

JSM Charitable Trust

#1 in Civil Rights: The African American Freedom Struggle in St. Louis examines the local civil rights movement and the city’s leading role in advancing the cause of racial justice. From ground-level activism to groundbreaking court rulings, St. Louis has been front and center in contesting racial inequities. #1 in Civil Rights uncovers a history that’s compelling and complex, but that all too often has been overlooked in the telling and retelling of the larger national narrative.

COMMUNITY EDUCATION AND PROGRAM SPONSOR William T. Kemper Foundation—Commerce Bank, Trustee

ADDITIONAL SUPPORT PROVIDED BY Maxine Clark and Bob Fox

Forest Park • St. Louis • 314.746.4599 • mohistory.org

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Volume 4.12 March 29, 2018

She Built an Empire Multi-millionaire Annie Malone ran a beauty college that at times served as an orphanage, emergency shelter & community meeting place Many St. Louis residents know about the Annie Malone Children's Home. They may not know much about the actual Annie Malone. Linda Nance came to South County last Friday to spread the word about the amazing Annie Malone.

Malone insisted her employees, all African American, were paid well and given opportunities for advancement. "She went through two divorces and the second one was

"Annie Malone was a very successful black business woman, inventor and philanthropist in St. Louis. She built an empire," Nance told an audience at the St. Louis County Grant's View Library. "She loved 'doing hair' and she made it an avocation." At the height of her business career in St. Louis, Malone established Poro College. The beauty college was much more than just a school. It sometimes served as an orphanage, an emergency shelter and community meeting place. Among its graduates was a famous musician named Chuck Berry. "She built the Poro School, which served as her international business headquarters, in 1918," explained Nance. She built it for $750,000 at St. Ferdinand and Pendleton near the old Sumner High School. "There was a very large building with a hotel, an 800-seat auditorium, classrooms, an ice cream parlor, bakery, roof garden and a nine-vehicle garage," explained Nance. "It is sadly gone now, but it was a showpiece of the St. Louis community in its time,"

A Poro ad promoting the benefits of Poro Vanishing Cream: "It will make your skin smooth, clear and soft."

Poro College's curriculum addressed the whole student, Nance explained. Students were coached on how to walk, stand, sit and talk. Malone employed 200 people in St. Louis and created jobs for almost 75,000 women in North and South America, Haiti, Africa and the Philippines.

contentious," explained Nance. "The divorce suit and settlement made her decide to move her headquarters up to Chicago, and the business continued there. She died there in 1957."

She became a multi-millionaire and in 1924 paid income tax of nearly $40,000, reportedly the highest tax sum in Missouri. Extremely wealthy, Malone lived modestly and gave thousands of dollars to the local black YMCA, Howard University in Washington, D.C., and the St. Louis Colored Orphans Home, where she served as president of the board from 1919 to 1943.

Annie Malone: Early Years

The Orphans Home is still located in the historic Ville neighborhood. The facility was renamed in the entrepreneur's honor as the Annie Malone Children and Family Service Center.

What makes Malone's rise to fame and fortune especially interesting is her humble beginnings, said Nance. She was born in 1869 in far Southern Illinois, the daughter of formerly enslaved Africans Robert and Isabella Turnbo. She became an orphan at an early age and was forced to move to Peoria to live with her older sister.

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In Peoria, Malone took an interest in high school in chemistry, but her frequent illnesses interfered with her graduation plans. While out of school, she became fascinated with hair and hair care and practiced hairdressing with her sister. She eventually moved to Lovejoy, Ill., (now Brooklyn, Ill.) across the river from St. Louis. She began experimenting with chemicals and inventing hair products at her new home. "Annie Malone was not happy that people in her community were putting goose grease and animal fat in their hair. It was just very unhealthy," said Nance. "She made products in her one-room shack and went door-to-door selling them and educating people about caring for their hair. "In 1902, she moved to 2223 Market Street because she though the 1904 World's Fair would be a boon for her business," said Nance. "That did not work out, so she moved to the South where she traveled and started hair care franchises of her business." Malone moved back to St. Louis and soon her enterprise was doing so well that she could construct the giant headquarters for hair care education, for manufacturing and more. "She had all kinds of products â&#x20AC;&#x201C; hair creams, perfumes and a 'Special Hair Grower.' She knew the power and importance of advertising and she put very persuasive ads together for her products," Nance explained.

History Society President Linda Nance serves as the president of the Annie Malone Historical Society. Now retired, she said she is devoting her life to educating anybody who will listen about the story of Annie Malone.

"There is so much to say about her, so much more to learn, and not enough people know about her," said Nance. Nance's program on Malone at Grant View Library was sponsored by the Sappington-Concord Historical Society. Stephen Hanpeter, president of the society, pointed to a full slate of programs through summer. ~On March 15 at 2:30 p.m., the society will present "The Missouri Almanac 2018-2019" by Amanda Doyle. ~On April 19 at 2:30 p.m., Jan Jacobi will lecture on his book, "Young Lincoln." These programs will be in the Rhineland Room at Friendship Village South.

"Her advertising messages were in the black newspapers all over America," added Nance. "She got her message out and sold her products without Twitter, Pinterest or the Internet."

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Volume 4.12 March 29, 2018

LIVE WORK PLAY

Volume 4.12 March 29, 2018 St. Louis

hat a beautiful day in St. Louis! I know that W it will be cold again soon, but that's ok, because we need the cold days to appreciate

the warm ones. Fortunately, the real estate market continues to be hot, which is why I am so late getting this letter to you. In fact, I was so close to just skipping the letter for this month, but I ran into a couple of friends that said that they count on this every month. So, I couldn't let them, or you down by getting through the month without letting you know about just a few things that might be worth checking out in our beloved St. Louis! I hope that you'll join me at some of them!

MARCH

15 thru

MARCH

Tonight, head over to the Contemporary Art Museum to check out Trenton Doyle Hancock: The Re-evolving Door to the Moundverse, which invites viewers to encounter visual narratives through painting, sculpture, and video. While you are there, enjoy the two-for-one drink specials and let art and lovingly concocted beverages be the food for love at the Valentine's Day edition of Drink in Art! On Saturday, the Orchid Show is in full swing at the Missouri Botanical Garden. You can view hundreds of blooming orchids from the Garden's historic collection in a lush, tropical setting. Head down to the Arch on Saturday morning for The Great Backyard Bird Count! The National Park Service invites visitors of all ages on a winter adventure to explore the Gateway Arch's renovated "backyard" and connect with nature. This program will feature special programs focusing on birds and their life cycle, the importance of citizen science and bird watching, and one of our greatest natural resources: the Mississippi River. On Saturday night, you can enjoy a different type of nature as the St. Louis Winter Tequila Festival is upon us at Molly's in Soulard. Get ready for a fun filled event for tequila fanatics and for those not yet a fan, get ready to be converted! Also on Saturday, in honor of Black History Month and mental health awareness, Slaying

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Local Events MARCH

Dragons presents Look Away, a performance about a friendship that develops between two women joined by mutual suffering. On Sunday, COCA presents The Story Pirates as they celebrate the words and ideas of young people, turning their original stories into wild sketch comedy musicals. Some of the best improvisers and musicians in the country, recruited from the Upright Citizens Brigade, Second City, the Groundlings, and more, bring to life the unfiltered world of kids' imaginations at Washington University - 560 Music Center.

Grandel Theatre. Rebelution, the California reggae band onedrops into The Pageant, on Sunday, more energized than ever as they have been touring relentlessly since their release Count Me In debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Reggae chart.

Sunday, you might want to check out the The Newbery Medal and Coretta Scott King Award-winning story Bud, Not Buddy. This "concert play" tells the tale of a ten-year-old orphan who wants to find his father. Bud sets off on an epic journey of discovery during the Great Depression. The musical score is written by Terence Blanchard and is produced by Metro Theater Company in partnership with Jazz St. Louis and is set to the sound of a live 13-piece jazz band at the

On Wednesday, check out the smokin' jazz styling of the Benny Green Trio as they perform at Jazz St. Louis in Grand Center.

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Volume 4.12 March 29, 2018

LIVE WORK PLAY

On Wednesday, check out the smokin' jazz styling of the Benny Green Trio as they perform at Jazz St. Louis in Grand Center. It's hard to say what it is I see in Sister Hazel, but they will be at Delmar Hall, all for you, on Thursday. It should be a great performance along with Carbon Leaf. On Friday, just in time for Black History Month, you can check out the premiere of creative producer Lamar Harris' ground-breaking original theatrical production, "Superheroes of Blackness" at .Zack in Midtown. Also on Friday, Lift Every Voice, this year's annual concert celebrating AfricanAmerican culture and community takes place at Powell Hall with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, Grammy-nominated guest Oleta Adams and the IN UNISON Chorus!

MARCH

19 thru

MARCH

For a different flavor on Friday, you can check out Celebration Day , a tribute to Led Zeppelin, which will be rockin' the stage at The Pageant. This should be cool as it features members of local bands including El Monstero, Joe Dirt, Dr Zhivegas, The Incurables, The Urge, and the Feed. There'll be no place like The Fox Theatre on Saturday as they bring the Wizard of Oz to stage all weekend! On Saturday night, you might find me and my beautiful bride on the dance floor at AfroSexyCool down at 2720 Cherokee Street. Afterwards, since we are on Cherokee Street, it's possible (likely) that we will be enjoying tacos and ice cream at La Vallesana. You can also visit The St. Louis Artists' Guild on Saturday to hear Brian Curran carry on the traditions of the past. His original songs are a wonderful mix of heartfelt lyrics and stellar guitar playing and his arrangement of covers show a respect for the masters of the past with a keen ear for the tastes of today's music listeners. Artscope presents Wall Ball 2018 on Saturday, which is a live art extravaganza highlighting top St. Louis artists, at Third Degree Glass Factory! On Sunday, North by Northwest, directed by Alfred Hitchcock, will come to life on the big screen at Powell Hall as the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra performs Bernard Herrmann's exhilarating, gentle, pulsating and moving score live! Also on Sunday, Sci Fest is your chance to take the whole family to meet local scientists, engineers and other experts for a behind-the-scenes look at real science at The St. Louis Science Center. Yes, another great month to enjoy in St. Louis! I'm looking forward to seeing you soon. All the best. -Nate P.S. Here is the latest Housing Report for your review. Median sales prices are up 4.3% from January of last year. Inventory continues to be low, which is good for our clients who are selling homes, but a bit more of a task for our clients who are buying homes. However, we are up for the challenge! Let me know if you have any questions.

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Nate K. Johnson ABR,CIPS,CRS,GRI,SRES Broker/Owner Real Estate Solutions 314-575-7352 Direct 314-514-9600 Office nate@livingstl.com www.livingstl.com

March 24th with Photographer Jason Gray

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Volume 4.12 March 29, 2018

PRESS RELEASE ON THE CAMPAIGN TRAIL WITH

COFFEE WRIGHT, CANDIDATE FOR UNITED STATES SENATE/MISSOURI

On Tuesday January 30, 2018, Ms. Carla "COFFEE" Wright a proud member of the Universal African Peoples Organization (UAPO) announced her intention to become a candidate for one of the most powerful and influential elective positions of this country, the United States Senate. This public announcement was made at the UAPO annual celebration of the spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. She will officially file as a Democratic party candidate Tuesday, February 27, 2018. After careful thought and consideration, she made this decision in respect and support of the UAPO concept of "Proportionate Political Representation." This concept simply means that whatever percentage Black communities are on the national, state and local levels of government, then we should have that percentage of political power. However, the Black community statistically in 2018 is nowhere close to implementing this powerful and positive concept. Accordingly, since there are 100 United States Senators and only three are Black, Ms. Coffee Wright made the decision to address this concern and many other issues impacting Black, working class and poor people in the state of Missouri as a candidate for United States Senate in the primary election to be held Tuesday, August 7, 2018. With much energy and enthusiasm, Ms. Coffee Wright has begun her grassroots campaign throughout the state by appearing and speaking at a wide range of community meetings, forums and church gatherings. To that end, below listed is a brief summary of her recent campaign stops and appearances

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Thursday, February 1- Supported the St. Louis City African American Aldermanic Caucus Red, Black and Green flag raising ceremony in honor of Black History Month at the St. Louis, City Hall. After the program, she and Zaki Baruti, President/General of the UAPO were interviewed by Real STL Live News and currently has over 164,000 views and thousands of comments. Saturday, February 3- Ms. Wright was a guest on “Conversations with Zaki Baruti” television show, NLEC TV Station 24-2. Friday, February 9- Attended and announced her candidacy at the Missouri Democratic Party and St. Charles County Democrats Grassroots meeting held in St. Charles, Missouri. Keynote speaker was Congressman Keith Ellison, Deputy Chairman of the Democratic National Committee. Close to 200 people were in attendance. Saturday, February 10- Ms. Wright participated with the “Young Voices with Actions Business Development Plan, Normandy High School, Normandy, Missouri. Congressman Keith Ellison made a special appearance and in his remarks acknowledged Coffee’s candidacy. Saturday, February 10- Kicking off her campaign in Kansas City, Missouri, Ms. Wright and her campaign entourage attended a private birthday celebration hosted by activist Ms. G'G' Owens at her elegant residence. In attendance of 50 plus people, Coffee was allowed to address the invitees. Everyone was very receptive of her campaign. Also, Ms. Owens has agreed to be her Campaign Manager in Kansas City, Missouri. Sunday, February 11- Attended Kingdom Word Ministries, Kansas City, Missouri, headed by Bishop Eric Morrison who was a candidate for Governor of Missouri in 2016. Ms. Wright spoke at the morning service and was publicly endorsed by the Bishop and his congregation. Later that evening, she attended another birthday celebration at a popular social club, the Epicurian. While there Coffee greeted over 50 attendees. Tuesday, February 13- Coffee attended a City Hall Aldermanic Hearing on House Bill 180 that focused on the issue of Marijuana. In attendance was over 75 citizens and once again Coffee announced her candidacy.

Wednesday, February 14-Campaigned at the Black History Program featuring the legendary Dr. Angela Davis at St. Louis University. She also had a brief conversation with Ms. Davis who congratulated her on her campaign and encouraged her to continue to fight for the people. Coffee also distributed over 550 campaign flyers. Sunday, February 18- Visited and spoke at three Churches. They included St. Mark Family Church of Ferguson, Missouri, pastor Reverend Tommie Pierson Sr. : One Way Christian Fellowship Church, North County, Pastor Belafaee Johnson Sr. and Christian Mission Church, St. Louis, City, pastor Reverend Larry Taylor. At each church she spoke and was greatly appreciated and her candidacy was fully embraced by both the congregation and the ministers.

“POWER TO THE PEOPLE” IS COFFEE’S CAMPAIGN THEME DONATE:WWW.COFFEEWRIGHTUSSENATE.COM For More Info ZAKI BARUTI 314.477.4629 & COFFEE WRIGHT 314.201.7711

Wednesday, February 21- Ms. Coffee shook over 150 hands at the Harris Stowe State University Wing Fling cook off fundraiser event after her candidacy had been announced by her Campaign Manager Zaki Baruti. She was well received by those in attendance. Friday, February 23- Attended the St. Louis County Library Black History Celebration in Frontenac, Missouri featuring Judge Jimmie Edwards, Public Safety Director for St. Louis, Missouri. With three hundred people present Ms. Wright was given the opportunity to announce her candidacy. Saturday, February 24- Received the support of Activist Dr. Ron Gregory, at a Black History Tribute to his brother, Dick Gregory. She also addressed the attendees. Sunday, February 25- Ms. Coffee expressed her opinion on Gun Control Reform on the National Action Network radio program hosted by Reverend Al Sharpton. Also, attended two church services and spoke at both. The churches were Embassy of Heaven Church pastor Bishop A. Wayne Jones and St. Peters AME Church headed by Reverend Raymond Sheppard. At the Embassy of Heaven Church, the Bishop and his associate ministers laid their hands upon her in prayer.

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Volume 4.12 March 29, 2018

You are cordially invited to attend a talk by Caren Irr, professor and recent chair of English at Brandeis University.

“Patti Smith’s Visions of Ethiopia, or the Neo-Beatnik Cosmos” When: Friday, March 2nd, at 4:00 p.m. Where: Hurst Lounge, Duncker Hall 201 Sponsored by the African and African American Studies department Caren Irr, Professor of English at Brandeis University, is a leading scholar of modern and contemporary American literature, film and media culture, globalism, ecocriticism, and critical theory. Her many publications include the books Toward the Geopolitical Novel: U.S. Fiction in the 21st Century (Columbia UP, 2014); Pink Pirates: Contemporary American Women Writers and Copyright (U of Iowa P, 2011); The Suburb of Dissent: Cultural Politics in the United States and Canada during the 1930s (Duke UP, 1998); and the edited collections On Jameson (SUNY P, 2006) and Rethinking the Frankfurt School (SUNY P, 2002). She is now at work on two other books: one on American orphan stories and the representation of capitalism and one on the contradictions of recent environmental writing.

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Essential

COLTRANE Albums

he historical development of jazz can literally be traced by the evolution of certain instruments used to create the music. While there are all kinds of instruments that are used to create jazz, ranging from the standard (e.g. drum, bass, etc.) to the not-so-standard (for instance Trombonist Steve Toure has been known to blow and mean ass seashell). But when it come to instruments that helped to shape what we know as the jazz no instrument, with the exception of the piano and the trumpet, has played as big a role as the saxophone. Invented in 1865 by a bored music student by the name of John Sax, the saxophone is a woodwind instrument that emerged as one of the principle instruments in the development of jazz music. In fact many of the music most innovative musicians (Lester “Prez” Young, Colman Hawkins, Charlie “Bird” Parker and John Coltrane were saxophonist. But among these great saxophonists one of my all time favorites is John Coltrane, whose innovative use of modes, eastern rhythms and ability to play multiple notes in a chord, forming what is widely known as sheets of sounds, never failed to move me to a calmer more peaceful mental and spiritual space no matter what song of his is playing. John Coltrane is the kind of musician that you listen to when you want to get a way from the stress and strain that the daily grind of trying to survive in this dog-eat-dog world can put on you. Listed below are five John Coltrane albums that I think are absolutely essential.

3) Crescent

(Impulse, 1964) Ah this is a beautiful record. Around this time Coltrane was studying a lot of Eastern religions like Islam, Buddhism and Hinduism which is why this is one of the records where Trane explores various eastern rhythms and applied them to his music, given it that soothing spiritual effect that many of his fans know and love him for. In addition to the soul-stirring title tune, the record also yielded another one Tran’s beloved classic “Bessie’s Blues,” his tribute to blues singer Bessie Blues. Again the personnel remain essentially the same with the exception of Steve Adams who was replaced by Jimmy Garrison on bass.

4) A Love Supreme

(Impulse, 1964): A Love Supreme is one big song that has five essential movements that were inspired by his study of Islam. They are: 1.) Acknowledgement; 2.); Resolution pt. I; 3.) Resolution pt. II; 4.) Pursuance; 5.) Psalm. Of all of the albums mentioned here this is my all time favorite. I first heard this album when I was a sophomore at Jackson State University. My friend Randy Costley (RIP), who worked at the college radio station with me, asked me if I was hip hop John Coltrane. I told him yeah I had heard a few of his albums. Then he asked me if I had heard A Love Supreme and I said no, I had heard of it, but hadn’t had a chance to check it out. That’s when he told me that I hadn’t really lived until I hear that album. The next day he gave me a copy of it on tape and he was right. There’s something about that album that evokes a calm and peaceful mood in me every single time I hear it. Again it features the same personnel that were on the aforementioned LP. All of whom put in fine work but Jimmy Garrison’s bass vamp really standout in mind. In fact I can still hear the opening bass vamp to this day whenever someone mentions the album.

1) My Favorite Things

(Atlantic Records, 1960): This was one of Trane’s biggest commercial hits. This was largely due to Trane’s innovative interpretation of the Mary Poppins’ song, “My Favorite Things,” which was issued as a single and was extremely popular song with young and old alike. But the LP also contained another classic Trane composition called Equinox. In addition the album featured Elvin Jones on drums, McCoy Tyner on piano and Steve Davis on bass, all of whom put in some fine performances.

5) John Coltrane & Johnny Hartman

2) Impressions

(Impulse, 1963) this is one of Trane’s first recording for the Impulse label and in my opinion it ranks among his best. The reason why I like this record so has a lot to do with its use of eastern rhythms. Songs like the hauntingly serene India, the bluesy Up Against the Wall and the intricate title tune that still stands as on of jazz’s most complex standards. Impressions also features an expanded personnel: Eric Dolphy (Alto Sax & Clarinet); Jimmy Garrison & Reginald Workman exchange duties on the bass; as does Elvin Jones and Roy Haynes take turns playing drum with McCoy Tyner playing the piano. All of the musicians do fine work although I have to admit I am partial to Roy Haynes work with Trane simply because he’s such an aggressive drummer and brings a different energy to the group’s chemistry.

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(Impulse, 1963). This one of the few recordings that Coltrane did with a vocalist. And he couldn’t have picked a more perfect artist to record with than Johnny Hartman. Again the duo is backed his trusty sidemen McCoy Tyner, Jimmy Garrison and Elvin Jones, who all deliver fine performances. Johnny Hartman has the kind of voice that oozes seduction. Trane rich tone matches the malisma in Hartman's voice perfectly. Combine these two giants with a selctions of timeless tunes like Afro Blue, Dedicated to You, Lush Life and My One and Only Love and you’ve got the perfect album for a nice evening with your significant other. In addition to these five albums, I highly recommend viewing the Netflix documentary entitled Chasing Trane. ~Charlie Braxton

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TAX PREPARATION CLINICS Thanks to a new partnership with the Davis Tax Foundation, we’re offering three FREE tax preparation clinics for artists this year. Space is limited. To avoid disappointment, make your appointment soon. Tuesday, February 20, and Wednesday, February 21 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. by appointment only at the St. Louis Artists' Guild, 12 Jackson Avenue in collaboration with the Davis Tax Foundation Space is limited. Please book no later than February 13. To make an appointment, send an email with your name, cell phone number and date preference. Note: Sorry, the Davis Tax Foundation team cannot assist you if you had depreciation, cost of goods sold, paid employees, income over $65,000 or foreign income. You’ll need to bring all W-2s and 1099s, your 2016 tax return and other documents (a full list will be sent with your appointment confirmation). Thursday, March 15 4:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. by appointment only Metropolitan Artist Lofts, 500 N. Grand in collaboration with Gateway EITC Community Coalition This clinic is just for artists who live in the Arcade Apartments, Metropolitan Artist Lofts and Leather Trades Artist Lofts. Space is limited. Please book no later than March 8. To make an appointment, send an email with your name, loft building and cell phone number. Note: The income guideline limit for this clinic is $54,000. The volunteers can prepare Form 1040/1040EZ with Schedule A, Schedule B and C (up to $25,000 of self-employment income), and the forms for earned income tax credit and the child tax credit. Sorry, the team cannot assist you if you had depreciation, cost of goods sold, paid employees, a home office or rental income. You’ll need to bring all W-2s and 1099s, your 2016 tax return and other documents (a full list will be sent with your appointment confirmation). Need arts-related legal or accounting assistance? Apply here

DIY

Do you feel comfortable doing your own taxes? Hate having to buy new tax software every year? If your income was less than $62,000, click here.

WWW.VLAA.ORG 314-863-6930 vlaa@stlrac.org 6128 Delmar, St. Louis, MO 63112

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Available -

FEBRUARY 2018

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Walking the Blue Line: A Police Officer Turned Community Activist Provides Solutions for the Racial Divide By Terrell Carter Bettie Youngs Book Publishers

$15.00 paperback

“As I recall my experiences, I find it incredulous that people in law enforcement honestly believe and say that a racial divide and racial profiling don’t exist. An officer’s mind is divided: first, between the police and the general public and second, between the police and minorities.”~ Terrell Carter Walking the Blue Line follows the author’s experiences growing up as a black child in St. Louis, MO, a racially charged city still trying to overcome its divided past, and his five year journey as a law enforcement officer which led him to reevaluate his views on citizens and police alike. Readers are taken on a compelling journey as he details personal stories of the challenges of navigating this new world, including how he had to testify against a former partner for falsifying a major drug arrest. Terrell details the thoughts and tactics of police officers based on their training in the police academy and lessons they learn on the streets and how this information can help citizens better understand why officers do what they do while still holding them accountable for protecting and serving their communities. Walking the Blue Line can be ordered from www.terrellcarter.net, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and traditional booksellers.

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The Other Blacklist BOOK REVIEW

By Mariah L. Richardson When I was a kid in the 60s and early 70s, James Brown was urging us to “Say it loud, I’m black and I’m proud”, the Black Panther Party was trying to survive the assault from the US government, and Angela Davis was pleading the case for her life. I was always fascinated with Angela Davis, not because she had the perfect Afro but, because she was a communist. I had no idea what that meant. It was a strange word but seemed to hold power. I didn’t know of any communists nor did I know any Reds or what McCarthyism was. I read her autobiography later in life and I was still intrigued by the word. How could she have been a communist? Outside of Russians, who were communists? The unlikely alliance of African Americans and the Communist Party in the 1950s is the subject of Mary Helen Washington’s 2014 book, The Other Black List: The African American literary and cultural Left of the 1950s. Washington’s text delves into the involvement of blacks with the Communist Party and other Leftist organizations. The book highlights activist and writer Lloyd L. Brown, artist Charles White, writer Alice Childress, poet Gwendolyn Brooks, novelist London Brown, and playwright Lorraine Hansberry. These are not the usual suspects when it comes to African American artists with left leanings. It was common knowledge that writers such as Richard Wright were members. Washington chose these artists, writers, and activists to show how deeply the cultural leaders of the black community were involved with the leftist movement.

in producing and publishing works of these radical black leftists. “The CP was the only major American political party that formally opposed racial discrimination; it devoted considerable resources to an array of anti-discrimination campaigns; and it created a rare space for Black leadership in a multiracial institution.” Mary Helen Washington tackles this little-known topic of African Americans and the Communists Party. This book is full of intrigue and exploration. A history lesson on what it could look like when like-minded people join together to resist the dominant ideology. The very thing that the Black Panther Party worked hard to do, also. On March 16th and 17th at 7pm you will have an opportunity to hear Mary Helen Washington speak at The Griot Museum of Black History, 2505 St. Louis Avenue, St. Louis, Missouri during the A Black Woman Speaks event produced by Call2Conscience theater company.

Mary Helen Washington grew up during the Cold War and the

“The convergence of the Cold War and the integration during my education meant that I imbibed a version of black racial identity filtered through and shaped by Cold War politics. It was an anti black, self-abnegating form of racial identity based on white tolerance and black invisibility.” Of course, I wondered why Washington tackles beginnings of the Civil Rights Movement.

this subject and why I had no comprehension of the significance of Black Leftists and communists. But as usual the reason lies in, the ever present; racism. These black cultural figures were just attempting to create their art and to educate their communities, but white supremacy prevailed and silenced the voices of Black America. However, there was a way out and it was through the Communist Party, as well as other lefties organizations These groups supported their work and were instrumental in publishing them. The 1950s was the era of black resistance. Blacks were seeking equality and in response, our government began to wage war against black civil rights. There were also blacks who were complicit in this fight against Black Reds by ignoring the role that Communism played

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Interview with Lewis DIUGUID: Award-Winning Journalist Uses Example of Father to Encourage Today’s Men

There is much discussion today about ways to stem the downward spiral of young African American men. Veteran journalist, Lewis DIUGUID, mines the past to offer hope for the future. TheVillageCelebration’s Vickie Newton talks with Diuguid about his book, Our Fathers: Making Black Men.

Listen to the Interview

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Hello, I would love it if you took a moment to check out my GoFundMe campaign: CLICK GOFUNDME LINK BELOW TO DONATE https://www.gofundme.com/black-archaeologist-season-4

Your support would mean a lot to me. Thank you so much!

- Michael Lambert

Black Archaeologist. pg.

I choose to reflect the times and the situations in which I find myself. How can you be an artist and not reflect the times? (Nina Simone)

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Volume 4.12 March 29, 2018

2ND DRED SCOTT FREEDOM AWARDS DINNER

The 2018 Dred Scott Freedom Awards Dinner will be held on

Sunday, March 18, 2018 VIP Reception 3:00 p.m. Dinner 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm Hilton Frontenac Hotel Grand Ballroom 1335 S. Lindbergh Blvd. Frontenac, Missouri, 63131 We welcome our honorary CoChairmen: The Honorable Judge George W. Draper III and The Honorable Judge Judy Draper The Awards Dinner Chairman is Ms. Peggy Lewis LeCompte. (tlodpresident10@aol.com) (618)5937196 Dinner tickets are $100.00. (Begins at 5:00 p.m.) For More Information on Ticket Reservations and Sponsorships, please visit our new website: VIP tickets for the Honoree Reception are $150.00 (Begins at 3:00 p.m.)

www.dredscottlives.org Click Here to View the List of Honorees and to Reserve Your Tickets Thank you for your support!

Learn More

Connect with us

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Featured

Artist

Submission

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Otoo

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Follow 132K

Read Article Elaine Young Artist

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Featured

Photography

Submission

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Wright

Photographer | Mel Wright of Modern Visual Photography Model | Paulina Ksiazek www.instagram.com/melwrightmvp

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Zuka Arts Guild

ZUKA FRIDAY'S

Zuka Arts Guild Art Exhibition at 14th Street Artist Community The Zuka Artist Guild at the 14th Street Artist Community features a different visual artist every First Friday of the month starting 7 p.m. Zuka is a group of talented local artists with a history of producing collaborative artwork that dates back to 1974. ●

Every Friday @ 1 p.m. Live rhythm and blues with the band Renaissance

●

Bring your lunch and have fun!-FREE

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First-Friday of each month, 7 p.m. till 10 p.m. Music, live art demos, raffling local artwork and artist marketplace. Free and open to the public. Street and lot parking available @ 2701 N. 14th Street (Old North St. Louis Community) 63106

Experience You Can Trust. Our products and services have helped millions of American families and businesses prepare for life’s major events and their related expenses. As a licensed agent,* I can help you: • Meet your everyday needs • Save for your children's education • Save for retirement • Preserve your estate • Prepare for the unexpected • Care for elderly parents

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BLACK HISTORY BOY Episode #4

BLACK HISTORY BOY, (Ep. # 4) DESCRIBES HIS NEW SERIES TO THE PRESS. King Tut, Queen Nefertiti,King Mansa Musa, Black Samurai Sakanouye No Tamuramo, The Black Olmecs Of Mexico, Nubian Queen Amenirenas Donate $5.00 to help us spread the truth of our history. GOFUNDME https://www.gofundme.com/black-archaeologist-season-4 DVD's http://BlackArchaeologist.com http://kunaki.com/msales.asp?Publisherld=109447&pp=1

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The Tammi Holland Show

WATCH NOW!

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Featured

Artist

Submission

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John K.

Blair

John Blair is an artist, poet and musician. He is an adjunct instructor in English Composition and Psychology at a trade college in St. Louis, MO. He has a Doctorate of Ministry and Masters of Divinity from Eden Theological Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri. He has a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling from Lindenwood University in St. Charles, Missouri. He has exhibited his art work in solo and group art shows in several galleries in St. Louis and St. Charles, Missouri.

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BLACK WOMEN SPEAK A CALL TO CONSCIENCE AND THE GRIOT MUSEUM OF BLACK HISTORY Presents "Black Women Speak" A series of activities celebrating Women's History Month including an Artists’ Reception featuring Youth Poet Laureate, Bisa Adero, Black Women Speak Poetry with Shirley LeFlore, and solo performances of Beah Richards’ poem, “A Black Woman Speaks” starring St. Louis actress Ms. Thomasina Clarke. A Black Woman Speaks is a one-woman show that celebrates the life of legendary African-American actress and political activist Beah Richards who used her artistry to break down racial barriers. The play is a powerful commentary on the history of oppression and resistance of African American women from slavery to the present time. It calls for women of all ethnicities to work together for justice, peace and the betterment of humanity. Dr. Mary Helen Washington, Distinguish Professor of English at the University of Maryland & author of The Other Blacklist: The African American Literary and Cultural Left of the 1950s, will engage the audience in a post-show discussion on the current role of the African American feminist in today's social climate.

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Schedule of Events Sunday, March 4 Black Women Speak Artists’ Reception 3-5 p.m. Artists: Alfredia Bailey, Gundia Locke Clay, Dail Chambers, Stajah Curry, Jasmyn Diggs, Bonnie L. Edwards, Brittany Fernandez, Nanette Hageman, Sheri Hall, Erica Jones, Edna Patterson-Petty, Marilyn Robinson, Elaine Young and featuring St. Louis Youth Poet Laureate, Bisa Adero ******************

Wednesday, March 7 Black Women Speak Poetry! 7-9 p.m. 14th Street Gallery 2701 N. 14th St. Featuring Shirley LeFlore, Linda Smith, Pacia Elaine, Cheeraz Gormon, Cheryl D.S. Walker, Mari “Emcee” Carter, Sahara "Sista Sols" Scott, &Tasha "Unspoken" Archie

***************** A Black Woman Speaks Performances March 16, 17 @ 7 p.m. March 18 @ 3 p.m. Matinee Pre-Matinee Brunch 11:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.

***************** Contact: A Call to Conscience 314-607-8919 The Griot Museum 314-241-7057

BLACK COMIX RETURNS - African American Comic Art & Culture

A hardcover collection of art and essays showcasing the best African American artists in today's vibrant comic book culture.

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Circle of Light Associates

1515 VARNUM, St Louis, MO 63136 • $72,500 Residential | .265 acres • 3 bedrooms • 1 bathrooms • MLS# 17059099

This Beautiful Home is Ready for Family to move right in and Kick up their feet!! Your home has been completely rehabbed ready to pass all inspection!!

Rochelle DIXON Contact

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Enjoy the beloved classic on the big screen View in browser

Tickets

Community

Support

Winner of six Academy Awards – including Best Picture – and one of the American Film Institute’s Top 10 Greatest Movie Musicals of All Time, An American in Paris, stars Leslie Caron and Gene Kelly and features the timeless original music and lyrics by George and Ira Gershwin. Enjoy the musical film on the big screen while the SLSO performs the score live.

Buy Tickets Please note this is replacing the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra's May 12‐13 performances of Meredith Willson's "The Music Man."

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718 North Grand Boulevard St. Louis, MO 63103

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Featured

Poetry

Submission

Word Song (for Kupenda Auset) your poems sing from the page to our hearts whispering semi-sweet dreams laced with endless melodies wrapped in metaphors that seem to last forever and ever echoing visions of our future victories arms in arm shoulder to shoulder back to back we will win this holy war with the wonder of words spoken out loud evoking the magic of our ancestral tongue

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Charlie

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An artist's duty, as far as I am concerned, is to reflect the times. (Nina Simone)

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THINGS WE DO IN TIMBUKTU

The second children's book by the creators of The Black History Boy and Black Archaeologist animated black history webseries. BlackArchaeologist.com / YouTube, TechNubian1

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CALL FOR ART “All Colors” OVERVIEW: “All Colors” is an invitational and juried arts exhibit featuring the art of approximately 100 artists and 200 pieces of art. The show takes place January 13 through February 28, 2018 at the St. Louis Artist Guild, 12 Jackson Avenue, Clayton, Missouri 63105. We expect strong attendance, as the “All Colors” exhibit is a fund raiser with art and related funds to benefit artist of all disciplines, small not for profit 501C3 organizations and community/neighborhood organizations. Clayton, and the surrounding region have long been supporters of the arts and Portfolio Gallery and the “All Colors” sponsors are committed to make this exhibit a successful fund raiser and to introduce the St. Louis Metropolitan region to artist that mainstream publications have overlooked. HOW TO APPLY: Online applications may be completed though Portfolio’s website at www.portfoliogallerystl.org Click the Call for Art link that will take you to the sign-up, upload and payment. Each application must include the requested uploaded images and an artist’s statement of 100 words or less explaining the artist’s creative process including specific information about technique and materials.

Submit your art now!

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SINGING BONE PRESS . 700 Skyland Dr. Columbia, SC 29210 singingbonepress@gmail.com; singingbonepress.com; 803-730-8594

WINTER 2018

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE SINGING BONE PRESS publishes

WE NEED TO TALK: new & selected poems 1970-2016 by MICHAEL CASTRO We Need to Talk, Michael Castro’s Selected Poems draws on the poet’s dozen collections since 1970. It includes poems for John Coltrane, Allen Ginsberg, Robert Creeley and other artists, as well as poems on a range of subjects, sacred and profane. Haiku, kwansabas, blues, sonnets, ghazals, chants, and concrete poems are scattered throughout the collection of this essentially free verse poet who was named, in 2015, St. Louis’s first Poet Laureate. Charles Guenther wrote of Castro in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, “Michael Castro is a legend on the St. Louis poetry scene, as an editor, arts activist, and radio host, and for his poems, which have been widely published. His voice is wideranging and versatile. Whether in long lines . . . or in terse measured syllables, his voice is original.” Of this book, Jerred Metz wrote, “These are poems of substance. Each is a gem, a treat, a treasure, a treasury of verse and thought, and takes its rightful place in the collection.” Poet and critic Eugene B. Redmond said of Castro’s work as a poet: “Since taking the oath of poetry, Michael Castro has kept brilliant wordfaith & good company—Eliot, Baraka, Basho, Ginsberg, Black Elk, jazz, spokenwordworld—not bad for a poetic souljourner occupying formidable ritual ground: Ancient, American, Multi-cultural.” On the Author: Born in New York City in 1945 and residing in St. Louis since the late sixties, Michael Castro has brought his poet’s spirit to a range of life roles: educator; founder of the literary organization and magazine, River Styx; radio host; editor; scholar; performance artist; and translator. In addition to his widely published poems, his prose work, Interpreting the Indian: Twentieth Century Poets & the Native American, is regarded as a pioneering work in the field of Native American Studies. He has co-translated with Gabor G. Gyukics, more than fifty Hungarian poets, resulting in an anthology and several books, including A Transparent Lion by the great twentieth century poet, Attila Jozsef. Castro has been active in spreading poetry off the page, performing and recording with jazz musicians, hosting the prestigious River Styx at Duff’s Poetry Series for twenty years and the Poetry Beat radio program for fifteen. He has done hundreds of readings, locally, nationally, and internationally. In 2015 Castro was named St. Louis’s first Poet Laureate. WE NEED TO TALK: New & Selected Poems 1970-2016 by MICHAEL CASTRO Cover art by Cbabi Bayoc; ISBN 978-0-9334391-6-0; 305 pp; $14.95; AVAILABLE FROM AMAZON.COM, LEFT BANK BOOKS, SUBTERANEAN BOOKS

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Volume 4.12 March 29, 2018

BLACK WOMEN SPEAK POETRY! AT THE 14TH STREET GALLERY

In celebration of Women’s History Month

A Call to Conscience presents an evening of poetry with some of St. Louis’ finest word artists. Tasha “Unspoken” Archie, Mari “Emcee” Carter, Pacia Elaine, Cheeraz Gormon, Shirley LeFlore, Sahara “Sista Sols” Scott, Linda Smith, and Cheryl D.S. Walker Wednesday, March 7, 2018 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. 14th Street Gallery | 2701 N. 14th St. | St. Louis, Mo 63106 Free Admission Light Refreshments Served

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TEN

The Empowerment Network for Men facing Prostate Cancer From: iHEART COMMUNITIES w/ JADE HARRELL

Prostate cancer is not only an invader of the human body it is an infiltrator of the human spirit. Survivor, Mellve Shahid made a promise to God to support and serve other men battling prostate cancer when he was diagnosed ten years ago. He founded The Empowerment Network and has been changing lives and creating hope for hundreds of men ever since. Click here for the podcast.

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DISPLACED

&ERASED

The history of Clayton, Missouri's uprooted black community. emmakriley.com

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Volume 4.12 March 29, 2018

Featured

Model

Submission

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Tonnette

Holmes

Introducing Tonette Latosha Holmes: A 32 year old actress born and raised in St.Louis , MO. My passion for the Arts began as a 17 year old, and has nothing to do with becoming “Rich & Famous”. I have a desire to inspire young girls to become whatever they want to be! When I see women who came before me such as Josephine Baker, Lena Horne, Eartha Kitt , Ruby Dee I become proud and literally feel like I can conquer the world. My ultimate goal is to open a Children’s Performing Arts center that would provide artistic outlets for children to express themselves and comfortably become who they really are. Dance, Speech, Body Expression, and Introduction to theatre are of options available for the children. Eventually, the performing arts center will also have a children’s talent agency division. I want to provide opportunities to talented children. Biography : Tonette Latosha Holmes is a 32 year actress born and raised in St. Louis , MO. After high school in 2003, she attended Florissant Valley Community college where she majored in Communication Arts. During those two years she received several courses of basic theatre training, and also a screenwriting course. In 2006, she continued her Education in Performing Arts at The Black Repertory Theatre based in St. Louis , MO. With constant networking and dedication she has landed roles in several commercials and theatre productions such as «Justice too long delayed», «My heart met my soul», and «RISEN». Also, host of local films such as «Pennies for the Boatman” , “UnResolved” (Filming) , “Sunshine” the series (Filming), “Successfully Single” (Pre-production), “Something to Prove” (Filming), “Restaurant Impossible” The Food network, and most recently “ Murder Chose Me” television series which will premiere on The Investigation Discovery Channel. Tonette is currently signed to “Gage Talent” based in Knoxville , Tennessee.

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“Our only hope today lies in our ability to recapture the revolutionary spirit and go into a sometimes hostile world declaring eternal hostility to poverty, racism, and militarism.” Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Nina Simone I wish I knew how it would feel to be free

(Live in Montreux) 1976

www.the-arts-today.com

Volume 4.12 March 29, 2018

2018

African Film Festival FREE EVENT

MARCH 23 – MARCH 25 BROWN HALL | ROOM 100

FRIDAY, MARCH 23 | 7 pm

STILL WATERS RUN DEEP

Abessie Akhamie, Nigeria, 2017, 16 minutes (Etsako, Nigerian Pidgin English, and English with English Subtitles) Within a small Nigerian family, the father is the patriarch and protector of his flock. The film tells the intimate story of a man whose concealed emotions begin to stir when faced with the portent of a missing son.

L’ORAGE AFRICAIN: UN CONTINENT SOUS L’INFLUENCE

Sylvestre Amoussou, France, 89 minutes (French with English subtitles)

The president of an imaginary African country, suffering from seeing his country’s rich natural resources exploited only by Western corporations, decides to nationalize all means of production built on its territory by foreigners. As expected the foreigners decry this, claiming that it is they who have built these structures, to which the government responds, “yes, but on our soil.” Fierce battles ensue where no holds are barred. Silver Stallion Award, Ouagadougou Panafrican Film and Television Festival, 2017

SATURDAY, MARCH 24 | 7 pm

SUNDAY, MARCH 25 | 7 pm

FAREWELL MEU AMOR

SAMEDI CINEMA

Ekwa Msangi, USA, 11 minutes (English)

Mamadou Dia, Senegal, 2016, 11 minutes (Fulani, Wolof, and French with English subtitles)

The morning of the long-awaited reunion with his exiled family, a man is faced with the heartbreak of a different type of parting — from his lover.

In a small town in the north of Senegal, two young avid cinephiles are desperate to see a movie on the big screen of their local cinema before it closes its door forever.

FÉLICITÉ

Alain Gomis, Senegal/Congo, 2017, 100 minutes (French and Lingala with English subtitles) Félicité is a proud, free-willed woman working as a singer in a bar in the Congo’s capital, Kinshasa. Her life is thrown into turmoil when her 14-year-old son gets into a terrible car accident. To raise the money to save him, she sets out on a breakneck race through the streets of electric Kinshasa — a world of music and dreams. Best Film, Berlin International Film Festival, 2017 Silver Award, Chicago International Film Festival, 2017 Best Film and Best Sound, Ouagadougou Panafrican Film and Television Festival, 2017

Q & A following featuring filmmaker Ekwa Msangi

EYE ON YOUTH SATURDAY, MARCH 24 | 3 pm

BILAL: A NEW BREED OF HERO

Ayman Jamal and Khurram H. Alavi, UAE/Ethiopia, 105 minutes (In English) A thousand years ago, one boy with a dream of becoming a great warrior is abducted with his sister and taken to a land far away from home. Thrown into a world where greed and injustice rule all, Bilal finds the courage to raise his voice and make a change. Inspired by true events, this is a story of a real hero who earned his remembrance in time and history.

CH Cinema Network Prize, 2017 Best Narrative Short Film, Crossing the Screen Award, 2017 Best Short Film, 18th Shorts International Film Festival, 2017

DE PARIS À FERGUSON: COUPABLES D’ÊTRE NOIRS/NOT YO MAMA’S MOVEMENT

Rokhaya Diallo, France/USA, 2015, 52 minutes (French and English with English subtitles)

This film captures an emerging generation of black activists who, in the wake of the deaths of Trayvon Martin and Michael Brown, were able to mobilize international opinion in favor of the protests in America. Although France is confronted with similar problems, the victims of French police brutality have not benefited from the same media attention. Not Yo Mama’s Movement explores the similarities and differences between the racial situations in the United States and France and how today’s activists navigate building movements for change.

Introduction of the film by the director with a Q & A following Featuring Rokhaya Diallo, Guest Artist Rokhaya Diallo is a journalist, author, filmmaker, and activist for racial, gender, and religious equality. She is a BETFrance host and has produced and/or directed documentaries, TV, and radio programs. She has published: Racism: a guide, France Belongs to Us, France: One and Multicultural, How to talk to kids about racism, a graphic novel Pari(s) d’Amies, and Afro!, featuring Afro-Parisians who choose natural hairstyles.

SPONSORED BY The film festival is sponsored by the Department of African & African-American Studies, the Program in Film & Medial Studies, and the African Students Association of Washington University. It is funded in part by a grant from the Women’s Society of Washington University. Financial assistance for this project also has been provided by the Missouri Arts Council, a state agency, and an award from the National Endowment for the Arts. The event is also supported by the Saint Louis Art Museum. Saturday’s films are co-presented with the St. Louis Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Samedi Cinema is part of the African Film Festival, Inc. Traveling Series. Bilal is provided by MAV 12; L’Orage Africain is provided by TCHOKO TCHOKO 7ème Art; and Félicité is provided courtesy of Strand Releasing. Still Waters Run Deep, Farewell Meu Amor, and De Paris à Ferguson are provided by their filmmakers.

Seating is first come, first serve. No tickets needed. Shuttles available from the Danforth Center Garage.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

(314) 935-7879 or toliver-diallo@wustl.edu | africanfilm.wustl.edu

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Dear Colleagues, The Washington University African Film Festival 2018 is almost here! The festival, in its 13th year, will run March 23-25! Screenings will be held at 7pm nightly and we will have a special Youth Matinee Screening at 3pm on Saturday, March 24 in Brown Hall, Room 100 on Washington University's campus. The film festival is free and open to the public. This year's festival will feature powerful screenings, including the first (Felicite) and second place (L'Orage Africain) winners at FESPACO (the big film festival in Burkina Faso). We are excited to welcome four filmmakers to the festival: Ekwa Msangi, Mamadou Dia, Abbesi Akhamie, and Rokhaya Diallo.

We invite you to become a fan of festival on Facebook - Washington University African Film Festival - for trailers, reviews etc. If you have a favorite cafe in which you can hang a poster, please let me know as I have some posters and postcards. I have attached a digital version of the poster. The event is sponsored by the African & African American Studies Program, Program in Film & Media Studies, and African Students Association, with funding from the Washington University Women's Society and the Missouri Arts Council.

Thank you for your continued support and see you at the festival!

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Motion Art by: Garry Walker illuminumart@gmail.com

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Volume 4.12 March 29, 2018

APRIL4 TH

pril 4, 1968 marks the 50th anniversary of the assignation of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at the Loraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee. We lost a man who recognized the inherent dignity and of the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family. He said it is the foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world. He knew that we all are equal before the law and are entitled without any discrimination to equal protection of the law.

Imam or Rabbi, why are they parading these folks in front of us now? Will they be back to worship with us next weekend; next month; next year?

Dr. Woodson wrote, 85 years ago; ‘The enemies of the race will find a Negro willing to do certain things they desire to have accompanied and will finance him and give him sufficient publicity to get before the world, for the few favors which he may dispense among his followers.’ ~Bernie Hayes

Understanding one’s heritage is crucial to self-esteem and we have several elections scheduled in the next few months. Have you decided on the candidates that have earned your trust and your vote? Are you prepared for the upcoming elections? Are you ready for the next betrayals? I often quote Dr. Carter G. Woodson because his 1933 publication “The Mis-education of the Negro” seems so prophetic. Dr. Woodson wrote ‘Negroes sometimes choose their own leaders, but unfortunately they are too often the wrong kind. Negroes do not readily follow persons with constructive programs. Almost any sort of exciting appeal or trivial matter presented to them may receive immediate attention and temporarily at least liberal support.’ After reading this, prepare for the stream of Black and white candidates who will be visiting your church, synagogue, mosque or other place of worship, soliciting your vote and promising anything you ask for. How many have returned to worship with you since you gave your last vote away? How many promises were kept? Who have benefitted since their last visit? Were their promises kept? These are critical questions. Are the same preachers and other religious leaders going to ask you again to give your support to someone from outside of your neighborhood? Get prepared because in a few months, they will be back again, with the same old stories and promises and commitments, vowing to love you, respect you and finally to include you in the agenda. You know. You have heard it all before. This time, why not ask your preacher,

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Volume 4.12 March 29, 2018

Business Edge

workshops for individual artists

Essential Tax Knowledge for Artists and Freelancers Monday, February 5 (6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.) Rus Garofalo, owner of Brass Taxes, will guide you through the tax maze and offer suggestions that could save you money and a lot of aggravation. Plus we'll discuss the tax reform changes that may apply to you.

MO Sales Tax 101 Monday, February 12 (6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.) Does sales tax make you cringe? Accountant Jessica Seiffert, Rubin Brown, make it less daunting by covering all the basics, including what’s required if you participate in art shows or craft fairs. Co‐sponsored by the Saint Louis Arts Fair.

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Anatomy of a Contract Monday, March 5 (6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.) Although many of us still prefer to conduct our business on a handshake, vague verbal agreements can result in ugly misunderstandings. In addition to covering contract basics, this interactive session will help you sharpen your negotiation skills. Instructor: Attorney Mark Mueller

Purple Pain: Legal Lessons We Can Learn from Prince Monday, March 12 (6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.) Prince, the prolific and iconic superstar who passed away unexpectedly in 2016, can teach us sound legal lessons about creative entrepreneurship, intellectual property and estate planning. Our team of presenters will highlight the key takeaways.

Copyright Clinic Monday, April 2 (6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.) Do you have pressing questions about copyright? Here’s your chance to learn the fundamentals from Attorney David E. Crawford. Then you’ll have an opportunity to spend 15 minutes talking to a volunteer lawyer. Consultations will be scheduled in person that evening and may not be available if you do not register in advance.

Licensing Copyrighted Works Monday, April 23 (6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.) We’ll cover common terms and conditions found in copyright licenses, the difference between a license and an assignment and exclusive v. non‐exclusive licenses, splitting of rights, recording and maintaining your rights with the Copyright Office, works made for hire, termination rights and different types of payment terms. This discussion will also address open source and creative commons licenses. Presented in collaboration with the Copyright Alliance and World IP Week. Workshops are held at the Regional Arts Commission, 6128 Delmar. Free parking is available behind the Pageant or in the MetroLink lot. Tuition is $10 in advance and $15 at the door. Can’t afford to pay? Please contact us to request a scholarship.

Defending Free Speech We've joined an amicus brief defending the freedom of artistic expression rights of David Pulphus (left), the St. Louis artist whose painting was removed from an exhibition at the U.S. Capitol. Washington, D.C.‐based Covington & Burling drafted the brief with substantial input from VLAA Volunteer Attorney Mark Sableman (right) of Thompson Coburn LLP. In all,17 arts substantial here input from VLAA service and advocacy organizations signed on. More Volunteer Attorney Mark Sableman (right) of Thompson Coburn LLP. In all,17 arts service and advocacy organizations signed on. More here

Artists, need artsrelated legal or accounting assistance? Apply here.

www.vlaa.org

www.the-arts-today.com 314/863-6930 vlaa@stlrac.org

Volume 4.12 March 29, 2018

"Quiet Time" by: Lonnie Powell

"Cuban Dancer" by: Ed Johnetta Miller pg.

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June 26, 2017 PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Release Contact: Robert A. Powell 314-265-0432 Portfoliogallery@att.net,

Portfolio Gallery today issues its call for art, and invites visual artist of all disciplines to enter at:www.portfoliogallerystl.org The “All Colors” Fine Art Show will feature 100 artist and 200 pieces of art, both local and nationally known artists, collectors and educators to the St. Louis Region.

The “All Colors” exhibition will feature the art of invited artist Dean Mitchell, Charles Bibbs, Manuelita Brown, Ed Johnetta Miller, Lonnie Powell, Robert Hale, Sandra Smith, Cbabi Bayoc, Thomas Sleet, Dr. Carolyn Mazloomi, Ronald Johnson and others. Our goal is to create an exciting art event that attracts a national audience. Sells income will support general operations of Portfolio, Inc. a not-for-profit 501C3 arts organization and further be used to provide grants to St. Louis artists, small notfor-profits and community based organizations. Please join the award winning Portfolio Gallery as it presents its 1st Annual “All Colors” Visual Arts Invitational & Juried Exhibition to be held January 13th through February 28, 2018, at the St. Louis Artist Guild, 12 Jackson Avenue, Clayton, Missouri 63105.

Portfolio Gallery is a member of The Alliance of Black Galleries

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Volume 4.12 March 29, 2018

CONTACT: Nancy Milton, Insight PR St. Louis 314-962-6400 nancy@InsightRocks.com Tom O'Keefe, Family Arena (636) 896-4289 tokeefe@familyarena.com

The Family Arena Announces The Missouri River Music Fest with The Guess Who, Ambrosia and More Saturday, April 14, 2018 Tickets on sale Friday, January 5 WHAT: Superstars from classic rock's glory days will come together for one night only at the 2018 Missouri River Music Fest at The Family Arena. The Guess Who, Ambrosia, Bill Champlin, Stephen Bishop and John Ford Coley headline the event scheduled for Saturday, April 14, 2018. Tickets go on sale, Friday, January 5, 2018 at https://www.metrotix.com/events/detail/mrmf.

WHO: The Guess Who is a group that's connected with the masses throughout a exultant hit parade spanning fourteen Top 40 hits, including "These Eyes," "Clap For the Wolfman," "Hand Me Down World," "No Time," "Star Baby" and "Share the Land." Add in fellow classics and double sided singles like their #1 rock anthem, "American Woman" and "No Sugar Tonight," plus "Laughing" and "Undun," and the Canadian-bred stateside conquerors are amongst music's most indelible treasures who are eternally etched within the very fabric of pop culture history. In its brief recording history, Ambrosia garnered five Grammy Nominations, five Hit Singles (including "You Are The Only Woman," "How Much I Feel," and "Biggest Part Of Me"), Heavy FM Airplay and the admiration and respect of the musical community. All this was in addition to Sold Out concerts around the world. Today, the band is more alive and compelling than ever. With three of the original members intact plus the addition of guitar ace Doug Jackson on electric guitar and backing vocals, Mary Harris contributing amazing keyboards and vocals, and the powerful and contemporary lead vocals and acoustic guitar of Ken Stacey, Ambrosia is exploring new musical territory and continuing to wow life-long fans and new converts alike. Bill Champlin is best known for being a member of Chicago, which he joined in 1981 and remained a member of for 28 years. However, his career encompasses much more. The Sons of Champlin formed in 1965 as a fivepiece band, and later expanded to seven members. The Sons recorded seven commercially released albums between 1968 and 1977 and gained a devoted fan base. Bill received two Grammy awards for his song writing and has released seven solo albums. He has recording credits on numerous albums by various artists that cover a 30-year period.

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Stephen Bishop released his first album, "Careless," in 1976. The album featured the hits "Save It For a Rainy Day," and "On and On." He sang the hit theme, "It Might Be You," from the movie, "Tootsie," as well as writing and/or singing for 13 other films including, "Animal House," and "Separate Lives" from "White Nights." His songs have been performed by artists such as: Phil Collins, Eric Clapton, Barbra Streisand, Art Garfunkel, Steve Perry, Stephanie Mills, Kenny Loggins, Johnny Mathis, Phoebe Snow, David Crosby, The Four Tops, Aswad and Pavarotti. There are songs you hear in your life that transport you to a certain time period or give you a special feeling. Songs like "I'd Really Love To See You Tonight," "Nights Are Forever Without You" and "Love Is The Answer" have that kind of effect on people. Those songs and numerous others have made John Ford Coley a singing legend. He has spent decades touring, writing, recording, and producing. WHEN: Saturday, April 14, 2018 at 6:30 p.m. WHERE: The Family Arena - 2002 Arena Parkway, St. Charles, MO 63303 TICKETS: Tickets go on sale Friday, January 5 at 10 a.m. and can be purchased at the Family Arena Ticket Office or online at https://www.metrotix.com/events/detail/mrmf . Prices: $85 (Gold Circle), $70 (Floor), $60 (100 Level Sidelines), $50 (100 Level Endzone), $40 (Upper Level) To charge by phone call MetroTix at 314-534-1111. For help purchasing accessible seating, call The Family Arena ADA Hotline at 636-896-4234. BUY TICKETS: https://www.metrotix.com/events/detail/mrmf MORE: Call The Family Arena event hotline at 636-896-4242 for more information, or visit www.familyarena.com. Suites are available for this event. Treat the family and friends, reward clients or employees or celebrate a special occasion with a private suite. For details and pricing, contact Blake Rapert at 636-896-4211. ### MEDIA INFORMATION: For advance interviews, images and additional information, contact Nancy Milton, Insight PR St. Louis, 314-962-6400 or nancy@InsightRocks.com.

Insight PR St. Louis, 59 Wilshire Terr., , St. Louis, MO 63119 SafeUnsubscribe™ ibj1960@aol.com

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ART OF FOOD

Thinking

Alternatively I

think we’ve covered a few times, that I have a major sweet tooth problem. Even though I’m successfully changing my eating habits, not much has changed as far as my cravings for almost anything sweet. Yes, yes I know what they say: You don’t have to cut everything out of your diet, just have things in moderation. However when it comes to me & Reese’s, that philosophy does not work. AT ALL! Whether it’s stress, a celebratory moment, or even when it’s been a horrible week at work and the kids I work with have made me grow another grey hair…one bite into a Reese’s was the greatest woosah. My New Year’s resolution was to completely cut out Reese’s, until my birthday (April 14th).

out with coconut yogurt, gluten free vanilla wafers and even vegan whipped cream. Another one of my favorites that I’ve stopped eating unless I make it from scratch myself…Rice Krispie treats. I finally got my hands on some vegan marshmallows & I haven’t looked back since. All of these alternative ingredients can be found at your local Whole Foods or neighboring health food store. So let’s get to it and remember, make the recipes your own. put together. You'll even be impressed with yourself when you're done. ~Léna O. A. Jackson www.facebook.com/gspDore www.instagram.com/gspDore

Although I have not cut all chocolate out of my life temporarily, it has been a rough transition and a struggle in the beginning. Late night cravings and sweet tooth moments have gotten extremely creative over the last couple months. I can say that I have successfully not had the smooth peanut buttery & milk chocolate perfection in two and a half months…the countdown to my birthday has begun. That one glorious bite just HAS to be worth it, cause I’m going right back to not having any or maybe I’ll really take a stab at moderation. Juice, water, fruit, my homemade sorbets, Jim’s Chocolate Silk and good ol’ sleep have been the satisfiers in the transition.

gspDoreinfo@gmail.com

Bon Appétit,

Doré

Healthy alternatives is the solution, at least that’s what I think. When I was helping develop a restaurant [menu] a few years ago, I adapted a banana pudding recipe to make it healthier and more appealing to our target clientele. It’s delicious with less calories & you won’t feel guilty for eating more than 1 serving. You can even try this recipe

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Volume 4.12 March 29, 2018

ART OF FOOD... cont.

Mason Jar Banana Pudding Yield 4 Ingredients 10-12 ea

Vanilla Wafer Cookies or (Pepperidge Farms) Chessmen Cookies

1 C

Rice Krispie Treats

Vanilla-Flavored Greek-Style Yogurt or Coconut Yogurt

1 large

Banana (or 2 small bananas), sliced

½ C

Whipped Cream, regular or vegan

f.g.

Caramel Sauce, optional

Place cookies in the bottom of your mason jar. Top the cookies with a layer of vanilla yogurt (approximately 2 tablespoons per layer). Add a layer of banana slices on top of the yogurt, approximately 3 thin slices of banana per layer. Repeat layers, starting with the cookies again. Top with a dollop of whipped topping and drizzle with a small amount of caramel sauce, if desired.

*If you want a stronger banana flavor you can opt to add 1/4 - 1/2 teaspoon of banana extract to the yogurt. These puddings are also are best if you allow them to sit in the refrigerator for a few hours so that the cookies soften and all of the ingredients come together!

9 C ½ C (1 stick) 20 oz. 1 ½ tsp 1/4 tsp

crispy rice cereal real, salted butter bags miniature marshmallows, divided vanilla extract or vanilla paste salt

Measure 9 cups of rice cereal and add to a large mixing bowl; set aside. Line a 13x9 baking pan with aluminum foil then spray lightly with cooking spray; set aside. Melt butter over low heat in a large pot. Once butter is melted, add all but 2 cups of marshmallows, vanilla and salt. Cook and stir over low heat until marshmallows are completely melted. Once mixture is smooth, add remaining 2 cups of marshmallows and stir to incorporate. “Marshmallows will

mostly melt but those little lumps that are left are going to add little pockets of marshmallow awesomeness to the treats.” Immediately pour marshmallow mixture over rice cereal and gently stir until cereal is evenly coated. Spread mixture into prepared pan. Using a spatula or the bottom of a second pan, press the mixture FIRMLY into the pan. (Do not skip this step & really pack everything down tightly or the treats may not stick together properly). Let treats cool to room temperature uncovered. Once set, remove from pan by lifting up on the aluminum foil then cut into 24-30 squares. Store in an air-tight container.

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Volume 4.12 March 29, 2018

Experience the amazing true stories of three women from Afghanistan, Bosnia and the Republic of Congo. Hear how they came to St. Louis with hope to create a new world by healing their old-world wounds. Gitana Productions presents

NEW WORLD By Lee Patton Chiles Based on True Stories about Women Refugees in St. Louis

“Riveting!” “The portrayals were electrifying, informative and penetrating!” Free Admission

Tuesday, March 6 at 1:00 PM

(Play is 40 minutes followed by Q/A) Mildred Bastian Theater St. Louis Community College at Forest Park

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“Acting White”

Share your Story Dear friends: I have been asked to write a chapter in a book that will address colorism in education. My chapter will focus on “acting white.” Specifically, when I was growing up, I was a “smart” student. My top performance in school, doing homework, raising my hand to answer questions, etc. often drew the accusation from my African American classmates and friends that I was “acting white.” Now, I know there are psychologists out there who say this is not true and does not exist. But alas, it was absolutely true for me. I have written about this in past works. I will do so again for this new book. I do know that many young folks today who continue to have such allegations hurled at them so feel free to share this email with whoever and have folks email me directly. I did a survey on this very question about 7 years ago and the results were consistent with my experiences decades ago. I’d like to update my earlier survey. I would love to hear from anyone out there who has a similar/related story either involving yourself or someone you know. I would like to include your story in the chapter. I will conceal your identity if you request. Do you have a story to share? If so, please email to me at: norwood@wulaw.wustl.edu. “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” Margaret Mead Kimberly Norwood , Professor of Law | Washington University School of Law

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Volume 4.12 March 29, 2018

ART OF HEALING Your Ad or Article could be here!

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RICKKITA EDWARDS

CARDIO-CORE & MORE AT NORTH COUNTY REC. CENTER

TIMES: MON WEDS FRI 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM

She teaches a class 2 Mondays a month at Faith Miracle Temple 7:15 pm - 8:00 pm. (ALL CLASSES ARE FREE)

COMING SOON! WAIST-NOT FITNESS PERSONAL TRAINING #GETWAISTEDBYRICKKITA

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LABOR DAY SPECIAL!! ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS FOR WEEKLY MEAL PREP, CONTACT INFO BELOW!

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Volume 4.12 March 29, 2018

MANIFEST With Your THOUGHTS

by Iyanda Sijuade (explicit language)

very day the Universe breathes that magnificent magical breath Spirit inside us and we get a chance to manifest. Manifest our dreams, our thoughts, ideas good or bad. They say you are what you eat. Well, I say “You are what you think.” The Scriptures say, so a man thinketh so a man be. “For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee.” Proverbs 23:7 KJV Manifestation is a real thing. We either intentionally or casually dwell on our thoughts. We have some type of feelings toward those thoughts. The Universe sees where our heart is going and sets forth actions to create those thoughts. Then you look up a few months, a few years later and damn you are living those very thoughts you breathed out awhile back. Sometimes, for me it’s easy to recall that I thought this reality into motion. And other times, reality hits me and it is not until those moments pass that I realize; wow I told myself that I would do this or that I wanted this or that. Like this building I live in. Many years ago, as a teenager in an East Dallas townhome complex, I told my mom that she should buy us a house. Begged her for years to buy us a house that we could own instead of paying someone else’s mortgage. My parents never talked about mortgages or property ownership, never was around people who talked like that. Watching my classmates in their families’ homes did do something to me, gave me that itch. I believe now that we’re all Spirits that transcend through time. And with time all knowledge is known so that’s how we know those odd wise things that you feel no one taught you. Or you feel déjà vu like you have done this thing before or seen this person or that place before. We are just Spirits passing through the time, recycling. I digress though, as a child, my parents owned a home with my sister, my ancestor Shonette Meshon Anderson. It was a lovely 3-bedroom brick ranch house with a den, living room, formal dining room, 2-car garage and backyard. You know, the works, nice quiet white neighborhood, no gangbangers, no ambulances squawking every 5 minutes. It was a lovely space. I wanted that for myself as an adult, a piece of the land that I could call my own. My mom seeked homeownership for a bit but it was not in her heart or her thoughts. The home was, is in my heart, on my vision boards.

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Yes, I use vision boards to make my dreams a reality, something tangible. I like activating my super Goddess powers to create, birth and evoke faith. I’m not Christian anymore but

the term faith was used quite often in church talk. I think drawing out that thing that didn’t exist out of the Spirit invisible intangible space to the real world is better than the belief of faith. Faith is believing there is an idea that exist, but manifesting is making that idea be. Back to those thoughts we have, they make a big difference in our futures. During my meditations, I am sometimes guided to be quiet, still, and just listen and follow my breath. Let my thoughts just float in the wind or on a lotus in a flowing river. The instructors tell me to “observe” my thoughts. Do not pick up the thoughts and start dwelling on them or coming to conclusions

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with them. That tells me that we, I have power over my thoughts. We have control over our thoughts not the other way around where our thoughts rule us. So, when you learn to be present and take control over WHAT you think then you realize how strongly your thoughts persuade your future outcomes. Sometimes I think I want a chocolate shake although I know they make my stomach terribly sore. A few days or a week later though, I am drinking a chocolate shake with whipped cream in the winter’s cold. I thought about that shake and recalled how good shakes taste. Drinking ice cream shakes make me happy. Other times I think, “Man, I just can’t think well when my house is junky.” Then, when my house is a mess, I just sit on my couch in a state of despair and confusion not knowing which actions to take next. Other days, I have dreamed and thought, “I want to own a house and businesses that help people.” Read a book called You Are a Badass: How to Stop Self Doubting Yourself by Jen Sincero. I am very grateful that my good friend Dr. Tamara Pizzoli thought about me enough to give it to me. She put positive intent on her thoughts and acted by buying and giving me this book. This book changed my life in several ways because it showed me a different way to look at life and creating the life I really want to live. Some of the book’s suggested tasks to create the life you desire: Change the way you think. Change your perspective. Be an optimist, “the glass is half full” instead of the pessimistic “glass is half empty.” Change your thoughts on how you look at money. Do not hate rich and wealthy people if that is who you desire to be. Duh! Right? Sometimes the obvious things are not so obvious and common to our understanding because we are looking at the situations the wrong way. State positive affirmations in the mirror very convincingly. This one, I don’t remember to do every day but wow when I do them I feel so empowered. My days seem so much brighter. Create vision boards with pictures of things, places, people you want in your future life. Say your dreams aloud with the strong feelings you would have in the future when those thoughts are a reality. Write down your dreams, ideas, goals and aspirations and review them regularly. Lastly, I give you journaling. Write down your thoughts, ideas and dreams. Ok one more (laughing out loud): TAKE ACTION. JUST DO IT. Get out of your bed, step away from the laptop, put your cell phone down, turn off the TV AND DO IT. Do not sit on your ideas, sometimes you must hear that thought, that strange but wonderful idea and take one

step towards making that thing a reality. It is fun when you do it too. It feels really good thinking about my dream to truly feel what I would actually feel like, if that future thing was already here. Yes, I feel great elation daydreaming of family days with my children on the beaches of the Nile River in Africa. Joseph Jr., Frenchaire-Two, Melchizedek Malcolm X, Sarai and I all together in Africa as I told them when they were younger. Yes, I remember dreaming about owning a house. I cut out houses from magazines, taped them to poster board 3 years ago along with other pictures like the Essence Festival, Black Art, foreign lands to visit, people exercising and delicious healthy meals. I put my vision board in a place where

I could see it often and daily, in my bedroom. Life continued to happen all around me same stuff day in and day out. Went to an unbelievable event that I saw in the newspaper. Got a real estate agent at a community event. Looked at a lot of houses. Signed my first real estate contract to purchase real property. It failed, ended up letting the contract expire because the house had www.the-arts-today.com

Volume 4.12 March 29, 2018

MANIFEST WITH... cont.

mold that the seller refused to mediate. No money, hum drum everyday life routine but I was still looking at that vision board hoping. Someone lead me to this property, I liked it. Made an offer, typed up the contract together with a friend. Sat down at Starbucks with the seller who signed the contract. WOW! Years of

Yes, if you think and imagine all sorts of nastiness and depravity; expect those Spirits to show up on you in the form of awful circumstances in your future. In Psychology, this is called Self-Fulfilling just crazy talk.

Prophecy: “A self-fulfilling prophecy is when a person unknowingly causes a prediction to come true, due to the simple fact that he or she expects it to come true.” (Study.com Self-Fulfilling Prophecies in Psychology: Definition & Examples Chapter 3)

Many years ago, all I thought about was getting high on marijuana and being mad and upset about my choice in marital partners. I mean-mugged and begged for a living. It was a detestable disgrace, I was depressed and miserable company. I could not see past the whorish ghetto that I lived in. I had no hope for tomorrow. I thought about sorrow and my awful conditions constantly. Therefore, I kept seeing and living more and more depression and poverty. My reality was a direct reflection of my thoughts. I put a lot of energy into those thoughts, mulled over the same troubles over and over and felt the sorrowful emotions that matched. My life’s conditions were a direct reflection of my thoughts. I manifested my thoughts. dreaming hoping and wishing to live to see the day my dream, my thoughts actualized. I was homeless many years ago so to be here today knowing I wanted this so badly is nothing short of a miracle that I created. I am humbled because the Spirits gave me this gift, but I know that at one time owning a home was just a mere thought and dream. Then I started taking small steps and now I am here: a homeowner, a landlord.

We must. We must. We must change our thought patterns. Change what we focus our minds on daily.

Passing an Angel by Daniel Hodges

Our minds have immense power to change our circumstances for better or for worse. We choose what it is that we think about and what thoughts we put power to by dwelling on them. Our thoughts make differences in our future lives, future circumstances. We really are what we think. Because when you think things you propel those visions into the Universe. When you think on things so long, those thoughts come out as words in our conversations, written down on paper. Once our thoughts hold space in the Universe outside of our minds, the Universe wields those words into actions in the future. We are just waiting for the time to catch up with the space where our thoughts happen. Sometimes this is an absolute blissful amazing experience or sometimes it’s an “I wish I was DEAD” bloody hell. It is sad. We think that our negative mental talk will not present itself as actions in our futures. Well that’s

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Be cognizant of our self-talk. Do you encourage yourself when things are fucked up? Or do you sulk and say, “I am defeated, I cannot fix or change this?” Positive and negative thoughts make the difference on whether we will live positive or negative lives. It is truly that simple. Be aware of what you think. Stay present and in the moment. Presence help us to be grateful for the small keen things that are happening around and inside of us. When we are in the moment within situations, we eliminate thinking and all the sidebars that we have in our heads. When we are present, we listen more intently for understanding; we observe more keenly; we can be grateful for the small things like breath. Presence of mind keeps us out of your heads thinking. We take more actions toward our thoughts. When you think happy and positive thoughts, your attitude and demeanor is brighter. You just feel better than when you think negatively. Purposeful manifestation occurs when you are aware that you have the power to change your future. The power to change and create starts with your thoughts. I know this sounds like a simple thang. It ain’t. Thoughtful engagement takes practice. We did not acquire our stinky thinking overnight therefore we must practice positive intentional thinking to reprogram our minds. This new flow will enable us to positively affect your attitude which will lead to different behaviors and emotions. Once you know that your thoughts correlate to your future realities, you will be careful and wise in your thought-making process. Even if you slip up and think something stupid, mean or negative; you will know to not dwell on it for too long for you know you will make that ugly thing a reality. Stretch yourself. You are a Goddess. You are a God. You Create. You Birth ideas into reality. Look all around you a world full of stuff, things, people, technology that began once as someone’s thoughts. You and I manifest. Bio: Iyanda Sijuade AKA Frenchaire Gardner is a serial entrepreneur: Insurance Agent at Mutual of Omaha, Manufacturer of her business’ Be And Us LLC’s Nigerian Organic Shea Butter and Property Manager for her business Melchizedek LLC. She is a visual artist, photographer, actress and dancer. Graduated from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology. Follow her on IG, Twitter and Facebook: @frenchaire, @msfrenchy06 or Facebook.com/FrenchaireInsLady FrenchaireGardner.com Thank you.

Photos, vision boards and affirmations around my home; my tools of manifestation.

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MANIFEST WITH... cont.

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What do I do? I help the college bound teens of busy parents write extraordinary college entrance essays. And, I provide perceptive leaders with trustworthy diversity & inclusion facilitation. My book, Chop: A Collection of Kwansabas for Fannie Lou Hamer, is available at www.femininepronoun.com

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Volume 4.12 March 29, 2018

EPISTLE

TO THE HUMANISTS Dear____________:

I suspect only a small number of us will attend international conferences in 2018, because for many of us conservation of budget is a priority. Nevertheless, we can select crucial topics within the bricolage of intellectual histories and subject them to scrutiny. For the sake of our young, the leaders we want to empower for a future, let us be brave and fear no evil as we condemn and triumph over pit vipers, anacondas, and mambas, the serpents that crawl toward us from the left, the center, and the right.

When that excuse we call a POTUS pandered to his tribe and hissed a less than original poem about a snake, the circus we call American politics in 2018 had a climax rather than an orgasm. No doubt the POTUS thinks the poem is a fine example of American verse, equal in accomplishment to D. H. Lawrence's "Snake," a better than typical British lyric. It is but wishful thinking that Fate would deliver a copy of Lawrence's poem to the WH, which of late has become the GOP " s---house," and force the POTUS to recite these two lines from "Snake" each day: Sincerely,

Jerry W. Ward, Jr.

"I thought how paltry, how vulgar, what a mean act! I despised myself and the voices of my accursed human education." (Stanza 17, lines 63-64)

But enough of fantasy bereft of jouissance as we return to a future. The curse of human education is sufficient.

For those of us who teach and/or write about African American literature and culture, greater pleasure can be derived from the promise of the 64th Annual Conference of the Japan Black Studies Association in Tokyo, on June 23-24, 2018. In its recent CFP, JBSA invited submissions on such topics as "teaching in the age of Trumpism, race and criminal justice system, anti-immigrant/refugee policies, media and technology, resistance and activism in literature, art and sports, the 50th anniversary of MLK's assassination, the Black Lives Matter movement, gender and sexuality, health and body, language, identity, and politics." You can visit the JBSA Website : http://home.att.ne.jp/zeta/yorozuya/jbsa for more details. Unlike the POTUS, our Japanese colleagues avoid being parodies of the real thing. They sight/site/cite a target and shoot for the center. ARIGATOU GOZAIMASU.

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#BlackDollsMatter

Buy Now!!!

Bring a sense of pride and strength to the extraordinary girl in your life. Madeline Delilah Doll and chapter book www.stagemotherproductions.com pg.

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John Jennings Associate Professor Visual Studies SUNY Buffalo tumblr: http://jijennin70. tumblr.com/

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Sycorax's Daughters

~ Edited by Kinitra Brooks, PhD, Linda D. Addison, Susana Morris, PhD. Forward by: Walidah Imarisha

A powerful, revealing anthology of dark fiction and poetry by Black women writers. The tales of what scares, threatens and shocks them will enlighten and entertain you. Sycorax’s Daughters’ stories and poems delve into demons and shape shifters from Carole McDonnell’s “How to Speak to the Bogeyman” and Sheree Renée Thomas’ “Tree of the Forest Seven Bells Turns the World Round Midnight” to far future offerings from Kiini Ibura Salaam’s “The Malady of Need”, Valjeanne Jeffers’ steampunk female detective in “Mona Livelong: Paranormal Detective II” and others. These thought-provoking twenty-eight stories and fourteen poems cover creatures imagined— vampires, ghosts, and mermaids, as well as the unexpected price paid by women struggling for freedom and validation in the past—slavery to science-fiction futures with transhumans and alternate realities. Leave the lights on and join these amazing authors as they share their unique vision of fear. Tiffany Austin - Tracey Baptiste - Regina N. Bradley - Patricia E. Canterbury - Crystal Connor - Joy M. Copeland - Amber Doe - Tish Jackson - Valjeanne Jeffers - Tenea D. Johnson - R. J. Joseph - A. D. Koboah Nicole Givens Kurtz - Kai Leakes - A. J. Locke - Carole McDonnell - Dana T. McKnight - LH Moore - L. Penelope - Zin E. Rocklyn - Eden Royce - Kiini Ibura Salaam - Andrea Vocab Sanderson - Nicole D. Sconiers - Cherene Sherrard - RaShell R. Smith-Spears - Sheree Renée Thomas - Lori Titus - Tanesha Nicole Tyler - Deborah Elizabeth Whaley - L. Marie Wood - K. Ceres Wright - Deana Zhollis

Review:

“

Sycorax's Daughters introduces us to a whole new legion of gothic writers. Their stories drip with history and blood leaving us with searing images and a chill emanating from shadows gathered in the corner. This anthology is historic in its recognition of women of color writers in a genre that usually doesn't know what to do with us.

”

- Jewelle Gomez, author The Gilda Stories

About the Editors: Kinitra D. Brooks, Ph.D. is an associate professor of English at the University of Texas at San Antonio. Her research interests include contemporary African American and Afro-Caribbean, black feminism, and horror studies. Linda D. Addison grew up in Philadelphia and received a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Carnegie-Mellon University. She is the award-winning author of four collections including How To Recognize A Demon Has Become Your Friend. She is the first African-American recipient of the HWA Bram Stoker Award® and has published over 300 poems, stories and articles. SUSANA M. MORRIS, PhD. is an associate professor of African American literature at Auburn University and co-founder of the popular feminist blog, The Crunk Feminist Collective. Sycorax's Daughters is available for Preorder on Amazon until March 10. Follow this link. http://amzn.to/2lsxgz3 ~~ Rochon Perry Publisher, Cedar Grove Publishing website: www.cedargrovebooks.com twitter.com/cedargrovebooks facebook.com/cedargrovepublishing

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OPPORTUNITIES

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CAREERS

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