April 11, 2024 e-Edition

An appreciation of Black doulas calls to find solutions for the disparity in Black maternal deaths kicked off the St. Louis City Department of Health’s week-long celebration of Black Maternal Health Week on Wednesday.

The event is a precursor to the screening of the film documentary “Sister Doula” created by Emmett Williams, CEO of Listen. Tell. Media on Thursday April 11. The documentary tells the story of Hakima Payne, a Kansas City nurse tackling the Black maternal health crisis headon.

In 2018 Williams met Hakima Payne. For five years he filmed the life of a doula, this included doula classes and birthing exams.

“Every single Black woman that I spoke to had some sort of negative experience with the U.S. health industry. That’s when I knew this was a story that I had to tell,” said Williams. He said that when telling Black stories it is equally important to tell the heroic work of

Voter rights education a focus of ‘Freedom Summer’

‘A way that inspires us’

With consequential elections in November that will possibly impact communities for generations, the Freedom Summer STL effort will focus on political and voter rights education and advocacy.

“It will create a space of service, activation, and recommitment to justice and transformation,” according to Blake Strode, executive director of ArchCity Defenders.

The organization will collaborate with Action St. Louis, Missouri Voter Protection Coalition, Freedom Community Center, Homes For All, and other grassroots community partners. “Sixty years ago, Freedom Summer called into question

By Sylvester Brown Jr. St. Louis American

“History will prove you were wrong.”

Those were the words of U.S. Rep. Cori Bush (D-MO) last year after her colleagues in the House voted to censure Rep. Rashida Tlaib, the lone Palestinian American in Congress, over her comments on the Israel-Hamas war.

Both Bush and Tlaib, are members of “the Squad,” a cadre of about eight progressive Democrats who often clash with their party’s establishment colleagues.

Both drew condemnation over their call for a ceasefire of Israel’s bombing campaign in Gaza after the Oct. 7 terrorist attack by Hamas. Reportedly, Jewish political groups are raising millions to oust Bush from office in the Nov. elections. In an interview with St. Louis Public Radio last year, Bush’s Democratic primary challenger, St. Louis County Prosecutor Wesley Bell, admitted that his decision to run against her was, in part, motivated by her criticism of Israel.

It’s too early to tell if history will vindicate Bush, Tlaib or other politicians

STL to

has added St. Louis to its violent crime initiative, a decision that will bring more federal dollars to police departments for crime prevention efforts.

n In 2023, St. Louis marked its third consecutive year with a decline in total homicides.

The DOJ will also add two prosecutors to the U.S. Attorney’s Office in St. Louis. In 2023, St. Louis marked its third consecutive year with a decline in total homicides. St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones said the city has made reducing violent crime a priority. “Under my administration, homicides in our city have decreased by 40%. We welcome this opportunity for St. Louis to work with the attorney general’s office as we continue

Photo by Wiley Price / St.

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American

Barbara C. Jordan Elementary School kindergartners in the University City School District view the eclipse Monday, April 8, 2024.

J. Cole disses Kendrick Lamar... but then regretted it

J. Cole made it clear he intends to update or remove his new song that drags Kendrick Lamar, “7 Minute Drill,” featured on his aptly named new album, “Might Delete Later.”

On the record, J Cole says Lamar’s prime is far behind, and he calls his latest album ‘Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers’ “tragic.”

In due time, Lamar reacted to his contemporaries in the song “Like That” by Future and St. Louisan Metro Boomin, rapping that there was no big three, “it’s just big me.”

While performing, J. Cole rapped a different tune on Sunday, saying his song no longer “sits right with my spirit.” He now feels “terrible” for taking a verbal shot at the beloved rapper.

Though Cole’s words did not come out of thin air, the exchange began in October. J. Cole and Drake, in the song “First Person Shooter,” ranked themselves, with Lamar, as the “big three” in hip-hop.

Tensions brew between rappers JT and GloRilla

GloRilla mentions her famous feud between Cardi B and Nicki

tension with from the rap duo ‘The City Girls.’ “I just pray one day the bad b***s would come together/’Cause Cardi and Nicki on a track would break some re cords/ Me and JT ain’t the best of friends but we ain’t beefin’/ Know b*****s always havin’ and that they keep a secret,” Glo rapped in the

song “Aite.”

JT deemed the potential olive branch insincere and got on Twitter/X to call her out over what she believed was fake unity amongst female rappers.

“I have been said she didn’t! She, the one who went radio silent! Played into, released a song about slapping rap b*****s now it’s female unity?? CORNY!!!!!” JT tweeted.

The rap peace concept at this point was long gone; GloRilla, in response, went to X to confront the ‘corny’ accusation.

“Hoe shut yo dumb ass up & fix dem uglylass wigs I said ain’t no beef ho you da one with da secret animosity,” she posted. Glo then went on to say, “Nvm, no free promo,” which caused a fiery back and forth.

Terrence Howard says his own people ripped him off

In December 2023, Howard filed the suit saying that he “trusted CAA to look after [him], and they looked after themselves.

In a Straighttalkphanee interview, Howard said CAA played favoritesand race was a factor.

“They represented me and they also represented some of the people from Big Bang Theory who also did the deal with Fox… We had 28 million viewers and they had 11 million viewers. They were getting $2 Million, damn near $3 Million an episode,” Howard said.

Terrence Howard claims that he was unfairly compensated as a cast member of Fox’s “Empire,” and is suing his former rep, Creative Artists Agency (CAA), for shorting him in contract negotiations.

“Those white kids had no name recognition, no Oscar nominations, or none of that. But we had 28 million viewers and these jokers are paying me $325,000 an episode.”

Howard reportedly also owes $1 million in back taxes from 2010 to 2019. He left a voicemail with the judge overseeing his case and boldly stated he didn’t owe the money because of “Four hundred years of forced labor and never receiving any compensation for it.”

Sources: Complex, Vibe, BET

Noir Bookshop is bringing books to young readers

Bishop partners with Boys and Girls Clubs

St. Louis American

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis (BGCSTL) and The Noir Bookshop collaborated on a novel idea to give youth greater access to books.

The partners unveiled the new ONYX public book vending machine at BGC Herbert Hoover Club at 2901 N. Grand Boulevard on April 5, 2024 BGCSTL participated in the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Club members demonstrated how ONYX works by choosing their book from the machine.

“Studies prove reading helps youth think critically, improves comprehension, increases confidence, and contributes to academic success. Academic success is one of our priority outcomes,” said Flint Fowler, BGCSTL president.

When expressing the importance of books and reading, BGC Herbert Hoover Club member young reader Jessie Jones said, “I feel like it helps me with basic stuff in life. Like it can help me get a job or, like, graduate from school.”

“I feel like I would be nothing without reading books. It helps me write.”

The Noir Bookshop owner and ONYX inspiration Ymani Wince said “There has been a lot of talk about reading disparities in Black and brown communities. I wanted to do something to bridge the gap in areas hit hard by literacy inequalities.”

The ONYX vending book machine holds 300 books provided by The Noir Bookshop. Club members receive tokens to select a book of choice, which is free. The machine contains books

from familiar authors such as Judy Blume and Dr. Seuss. There is a book for youth of any age, including ‘Learning Your ABCs’, reading about the first Black female U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, and reading a novel like Hunger Games. “I also wanted children in our community to start building their own library,” said Wince. “I wanted to provide a book vending machine at a place with a high volume of youth, where they are safe, where people can enroll their kids and know that they have access to adults who care, quality opportunities, development, structure, and access to free books that 100% belong to them. Once they choose a book, it belongs to them.”

Fowler said his organization is “delighted about this partnership, which we think will positively impact our children and help them improve their reading skills.”

Wince added, “This machine is for the kids at Herbert Hoover. Now is a good time to enroll your children at the Club, where they can access this machine and quality programs led by caring adults.”

The push to improve literacy

The St. Louis Public Schools district recently launched its ‘Literacy for The Lou’ initiative, which includes getting books into the hands of young people throughout the city and region. SLPS and Nine PBS celebrated a partnership that is bringing 36,000 books to children during

the 2023-24 school year on April 5.

Among the books delivered were locally made comic books called “Drawn In.” Created with the help of Lion Forge Animation, the team behind the Oscar-winning “Hair Love,” “Drawn In” offers animated videos, print and digital comic books, and fun educational games—all available on a special website.

“This partnership with Nine PBS and the Drawn In series shows how much our community cares about helping our youngest learners love reading,” said Dr. Keisha Scarlett, SLPS

You

superintendent.

“By adding these exciting stories to our ‘Literacy for the Lou’ campaign, we’re making reading fun and improving our students’ skills at the same time.”

The final book delivery of the school year included “Drawn In Issue #8: The Best Chef” and some mental wellness magnets, showing how much SLPS cares about the whole well-being of its students. Every pre-K through 3rd-grade student in the district will receive a book and a magnet.

In addition, the city NAACP chapter recently launched its “Right to Read” campaign.

Its goal is for students to meet or exceed the overall state average by 2030.

SLPS students have a reading proficiency score of 19% compared to a 45% statewide average, according to the National Center for Education Statistics annual report card. According to the NCES, only three in 10 Missouri students demonstrate reading proficiency at a fourth-grade level. Only one in 10 African American students reach the reading proficiency level.

Photo by Wiley Price I St. Louis American

The Noir Bookshop Owner, Ymani Wince and Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis President Dr. Flint Fowler unveiled a free book vending machine Fri. April 5, 2024 at the Club. Club members receive a token to pay for their books. The book machine holds 300 books provided by The Noir Bookshop.

DEI is not the enemy; it’s a superpower

By Candace Moore

Most Americans support the notion of liberty and justice for all. As children, many of us pledged allegiance to our flag, and as adults, we still believe in justice for all. I know I do.

That’s why I’ve dedicated my life’s work to fairness, whether as a civil rights attorney or Chicago’s first chief equity officer.

No matter where I’ve worked, I’ve always been driven by a passion for upholding fairness and justice. To connect people. To form a bridge between what communities need and what opportunities and resources they can access.

It’s on this bridge where concepts of diversity, equity, and inclusion serve as our guides, helping to ensure fairness in how we get to our destination. However, lately, that bridge has been under attack and the number one target: diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).

DEI is being targeted as the enemy, and it shouldn’t be.

The Washington Post reported that DEI jobs peaked in 2023, but have fallen by 8% so far this year, per data from Revelio Jobs, which tracks workforce changes.

The reality is that change is already here. In the 2020 census, 33.8 million people self-identified as multiracial and people of color make up over half of our nation’s youth. We are and are becoming even more of a multiracial nation. Diversity is something to celebrate not run away from.

DEI is not a boogeyman; it’s actually a superpower. It brings together the collective genius of communities that have been built from different experiences, challenges and traditions. It provides perspectives that would be missed and feeds imaginations beyond the status quo. It pushes systems and practices to work for all of us, not just some of us.

Americans believe in justice. Americans believe in fairness. We all want a fair shot at the life we desire. We want our kids to get a great education. We want to earn a good wage. We all want to feel safe and be healthy.

Also mentioned was that tech companies like Meta, Zoom, Google and, of course, X (formerly Twitter) are all reporting layoffs, cuts and pullbacks on DEI and related initiatives — some cutting budgets by 90%.

They cite inflation; they point fingers at DEI underperformance metrics; or they reference workforce reduction requirements. What they aren’t naming is fear.

When people fear that which makes them feel uncomfortable, they will listen to any bit of evidence that supports their feelings of discomfort. We’re in an election cycle; there is a lot of fearmongering that caters to a growing narrative: “White Americans are losing control.”

Yes, change can be frightening. We don’t know what’s on the other side. Yet, history shows us when we build strength to weather the storm, when we embrace change — together, we are actually better for it.

DEI is a tool that helps us bring that into practice for all of us. None of us needs to be intimidated by diversity. We need people who are assigned to integrate DEI into the core business of our institutions. But the measure of success is not just the outputs of their position, it is the strength of the institution to undergo true transformation.

I have often said equity is like working out. The goal is to build a muscle that is strong enough to drive the change we desire. It requires the discipline of the entity that wants to change. When you stop doing the work, you lose the progress you have made.

Similarly, DEI is not the enemy. It is a set of tools to push us to make real gains toward our goals as a country: true fairness, real justice and liberty for a great multiracial nation.

Candace Moore, Esq. is the senior strategic advisor for Race Forward, a nonprofit organization that works to dismantle structural racism. This commentary was originally published by The Grio.

A blatant example

of ‘blame the victim’ Commentary

By Marc Morial

By underfunding public HBCUs and denying the value of Black students on non-HBCU campuses, these extremists are making very clear the kinds of students they do and don’t want to succeed. They also are the same ones waging war on the teaching of our nation’s full history. But if we studied that history they seek to quash, we would know that the news out of Tennessee is just the latest example of conservatives rejecting the notion that Black people possess the capacity for self-governance.” – Gevin Reynolds

It’s a familiar pattern in rightwing political manipulation: Sabotage an institution. Point to the resulting damage as evidence of the institution’s ineffectiveness. Use the manufactured evidence to subvert the institution.

That’s what’s at play in Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee’s hostile takeover of Tennessee State University.

more funding overall to the University of Tennessee-Knoxville than to TSU. In the last five years alone, the state has spent an average of $2,206 more per student at the University of Tennessee-Knoxville than at TSU, Nashville’s NewsChannel 5 found.

A study by the U.S. Departments of Education and Agriculture recently found that of the 18 states with historically Black land-grant institutions, only Delaware and Ohio have equitably funded their HBCUs in accordance with federal law. Overall, the 16 states have underfunded their HBCUs by $12 billion between 1987 to 2020.

“Unacceptable funding inequities have forced many of our nation’s distinguished Historically Black Colleges and Universities to operate with inadequate resources and delay critical investments in everything from campus infrastructure to research and development to student support services,” U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona wrote in a letter to 16 governors in September.

As I See It - A Forum for Community Issues

By Nancy Grimm

Race and poverty directly affect access to financial resources, healthcare, education and employment – and often will influence the chance for fair legal representation and successful outcomes. Unfortunately, family court, which is responsible for crucial decisions affecting a family’s well-being, is not immune to the impact of structural racism in our judicial system.

Black individuals and families often face barriers to equal justice in court due to limited access, racial bias, and difficulties representing themselves when legal representation is unavailable or unaffordable.

ty or discrimination rather than abuse. Empty refrigerators and pantries, children left alone during work hours due to the inability to afford childcare, or the finding of a room shared among multiple family members can trigger citations.

Racial disparities persist throughout the family law system with courts making assumptions about people of color’s legal knowledge, parenting abilities and commitment to their children. While some judges and members of the court treat Black individuals and other people of color fairly, others in the court system exhibit implicit or explicit bias – making decisions simply based on race.

n

To ensure fairness, our judicial system must change. Court standards and practices must be critically examined through the lens of historical structural racism.

The shortage of Black attorneys and judges exacerbates the issue. The American Bar Association reports minimal growth in the percentage of Black attorneys over the past decade. Of the 1.3 million attorneys nationwide, Black attorneys account for less than 5% –hardly enough to adequately serve Black individuals with legal needs across the U.S. Diverse representation is key to improving the justice system and fostering better understanding and respect of the client’s life challenges and legal situation. This can lead to stronger attorney-client relationships and significantly better legal outcomes.

The child welfare systems in this country often harm families by failing to address structural and cultural causes for the family’s challenges. Reports and investigations disproportionately target Black families, resulting in children being removed from their homes and, in some cases, the loss of parental rights.

In fact, most allegations that result in removal of Black children from their homes stem from neglect due to pover-

Shockingly, 53% of Black children face child welfare investigations before the age of 18, often leading to Black children being separated from their families and placed in foster homes or other institutions, which continues to break down the Black family structure and endanger the health and well-being of the children. Once in foster care, Black children typically receive inferior services and funding, are kept from their families for longer periods of time and are less likely to be adopted compared to White children. Black parents often face unrealistic employment standards for making reliable child support payments. Child support agencies frequently overlook racial challenges and biases in employment, labeling people of color as “deadbeats” and “failures” because of their inability to find work. These biases often lead to fines and incarceration, perpetuating the separation of families and the cycle of poverty.

To ensure fairness, our judicial system must change. Court standards and practices must be critically examined through the lens of historical structural racism. Implementing training, guidelines and protocols for all judges, attorneys and court personnel to address implicit and explicit bias and their impact on Black families is critical for improving outcomes in family court. Increasing diversity among judges and attorneys is paramount in affording Black families improved representation and outcomes.

Courts also can partner with community stakeholders, such as libraries and churches, to provide self-represented individuals access to virtual hearings at these community locations using court-issued computers and technology.

Over the last three decades, the state of Tennessee has shortchanged TSU by a staggering $2.1 billion, according to a federal study. Unsurprisingly, TSU has faced challenges in maintaining financial stability. But instead of responding rationally by honoring its legal obligation to equitably fund the university, the state has chosen to dissolve the state’s board of trustees.

It’s hard to find a more blatant example of blaming the victim.

TSU, like other HBCUs, was created by state lawmakers in response to an 1890 ultimatum: admit Black students to existing land grant universities or create a separate institution. Federal law required “a just and equitable division” of funds between the two.

Yet year after year, in budget after budget, the state of Tennessee continually allocated more funding per student and

Despite the fact that the Tennessee legislature had previously acknowledged its own failure to comply with the law, Senate Education Chairman Jon Lundberg responded to the report by accusing the Education and Agricultural departments of “using TSU to stoke political and racial division in our state.”

The modern “Lost Cause” movement – known in some circles as “antiwoke” -- doesn’t pretend that Black Americans are content to live under racism. It claims that racism doesn’t exist.

Similarly, the state of Tennessee’s solution to racially discriminatory funding of its universities isn’t to provide equitable funding; it’s to shut down any discussion of it.

Marc Morial is National Urban League president and CEO

Guest Columnist Candace Moore

Columnist Marc H. Morial

Guest Columnist Nancy Grimm

Annie Malone May Day Parade set for May 19

St. Louis American

History will march on during the 114th Annie Malone May Day Parade on Sunday, May 19, 2024, in downtown St. Louis.

“The Annie Malone May Day Parade is a St. Louis tradition and the oldest African American parade in the nation,” said Keisha Lee, Annie Malone CEO.

“It is also the largest fundraiser for Annie Malone Children and Family Services which serves nearly 500 children and parents per year with programs in crisis management, therapeutic education, and youth substance abuse prevention and treatment.

For a second consecutive year, sponsor White Castles will support Annie Malone with a Round Up at the Register promotion through April 30 at 10 locations: Kingshighway and Natural Bridge, Kingshighway and Delmar, Jennings, Grand & Gravois, Olive Blvd, in University City, Berkeley, Fenton, Eureka, Kirkwood and High Ridge.

n For a second consecutive year, sponsor White Castles will support Annie Malone with a Round Up at the Register promotion through April 30.

“We are excited to partner with Annie Malone to provide much-needed funds to support disadvantaged children and families in our community,” said Darrin Cotton, regional director of restaurant operations for White Castles. Joining White Castle, Inc, in parade sponsorship are Walmart, Midwest BankCentre, St. Louis Development Corporation, BJC, Procter & Gamble, and William C. Harris Funeral Homes.

This year’s parade theme is “Connecting Physical Health to Mental Health.” Kendra Holmes, Affinia Healthcare president and CEO, will serve as grand marshal.

Media sponsors include KSDK 5 On Your Side, KTVI Fox 2, News 11, Majic 104.9 FM, 100.3 FM The Beat FM, Gospel 1600 AM, BIN 103.7 FM, Hot 104.1 FM and 96.3 FM The Lou. Sponsors and parade participants may also sign-up online at or attend Sign-Up Saturdays on April from 9 to 11 a.m. at Annie Malone headquarters, 2612 Annie Malone Dr., St. Louis, MO 63113.

Another sister under attack

By E. Faye Williams

One of the things I’ve noticed is the great effort to insult, discourage, even destroy Black women who’ve been most successful among us at doing their jobs!

Though I’m not as successful as some of them, I count myself among them; however, this article is not about me because I’m a Dick Gregory disciple. In my life, I’ve fought a lot of battles, some regretfully brought on by our own community, and while those can kill your spirit for a while, we must continue fighting the most damaging challenges for our people who run into even bigger problems.

Some of our best and brightest are under attack, and some in our community don’t understand what’s happening. There’s an organized effort to tear down so many Black women after the power we have shown, we don’t just talk about making a difference, we do it!

In the last presidential election, we let it be known that we have power and we used it, making it clear Black women, with the help of a few others. We intended to have a Black woman for our vice president, and through the collective power we have, Kamala Harris as our vice president.

n “Some of our best and brightest are under attack, and some of our own don’t understand what’s happening.”

Next— we shall have a Black woman on the highest judicial court system. Soon thereafter, Supreme Court Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson became a member of the Supreme Court. We continued supporting Black women for high-level positions in many places and we got them. It didn’t go unnoticed that when we work together, we make things we want happen. Since our successes, the enemy noticed and began figuring out how to put an end to the power we exercised to get so many Black women in the high places they deserved to be. Dr. Claudine Gay became president of Harvard University. No Black woman had ever done that before — but as soon as she arrived, some folk realized she was BLACK so she had to go. Fulton County, Ga., elected as its District Attorney Fani Willis. That was OK until she charged Donald Trump for allegedly attempting to collect votes that were not rightly his. In D.C., Trump came up against Judge Tanya Chutkan and she became his enemy. Then came New York state Attorney General Letitia James. He called her everything but a child of God, but she won the case against him!

Let’s go to a case in Baltimore, regarding former State’s Attorney Marilyn Mosby. Her case involves the clever work on her successfully making Baltimore police pay for the death of a young man named Freddie Gray while he was in police custody. I don’t have enough space to give you the full story, so I want to direct you to www.baltimore4homes.org to get the full story of why Mosby was prosecuted. It was for doing her job too well.

Listen to Angela Rye, Tiffany Cross, and others. Sign the petition we need for an immediate pardon. Mosby is guilty of nothing more than having been a Black woman in a powerful position. She’s scheduled to be punished with draconian years of imprisonment on May 23, 2024–Let’s use the power we have to free Marilyn.

E. Faye Williams is president of The Dick Gregory Society

The 114th Annie Malone May Day Parade Sponsors include Kel Ward, BJC, Neal Richardson chairman, president & CEO of the St. Louis Development Corporation (SLDC), Lisa Morgan Vice President Commercial Lender, Community & Economic Development at Midwest BankCentre. LaTonya AnNoor of Walmart, Keisha Lee Annie Malone CEO, Dr. Kendra Holmes president and CEO of Affinia Healthcare, Tiffany Fizerand district manager of White Castle, Darrin Cotton regional director of restaurant operations at White Castle.

Photo courtesy of Annie Malone

E. Faye Williams

Bush

Continued from A1

who spoke out against the bombing in Gaza. But, after thousands of Palestinians (mostly women and children) have been killed and injured during the military offensive, more political and public voices are aligned with the sentiments of the congresswomen.

The St. Louis American sat down with Bush at her new downtown campaign office last week. Our goal was to not only gauge her feelings about the Middle East conflict, the ongoing chaos in the 118th Congress, President Biden and the upcoming election but we wanted our questions and Bush’s answers to paint a clearer picture of the politician. Here, we attempt to gauge how her background as a registered nurse, community activist, single mother and ordained pastor influences her politics and dictates how she represents the people of Missouri’s First Congressional District.

St. Louis American: You were one of the first people in Congress to sharply criticize Israel’s bombing campaign in Gaza. You received vicious blowback for your comments, yet your warnings have come to fruition with at least 33,000 Palestinians killed and 75,000 injured during the military offensive. In retrospect, do you wish you had waited and not come out against the offensive so early?

Rep. Cori Bush: No, absolutely not. It was the right thing to do. It might have hurt but it was the right thing to do. The thing is; if our government would have listened, if Netanyahu (Israeli prime minister) would have listened, there would be 33,000 Palestinians still alive right now. There would not be over I million Palestinians displaced; there would not be famine and starvation happening right now; there would be humanitarian aid and UN workers who would still be alive.

Yes, we were viciously attacked because people called it ‘antisemitic’ to care about humanity. I never said anything against Jewish people...what I said was ‘let’s save both!’ So, I did the right thing, at the right time and if I had to do it all over again, I absolutely would.

American: How did you feel when some Democrats joined

Republicans to formally censure Michigan Rep. Rashida Tlaib, another Squad member, and the lone Palestinian American in Congress?

Bush: It was just so hurtful (tears up). Let me just say, Rashida Tlaib is the kind of person who takes care of everybody no matter who you are or what you look like, she’s that kind of person. For me to see my own colleagues stand up and criticize her and vote ‘yes’ to censure her…that was hurtful.

American: Some say your criticism of Israel is the main reason you’re facing a Black Democratic primary challenger in the upcoming election. Did this organized, well-funded effort to unseat you catch you by surprise?

Bush: Um, not necessarily but the magnitude of it definitely caught me by surprise. For organizations like AIPAC (pro-Israel political action committee) and DMFI (Democratic Majority for Israel) to spend $100 million dollars to oust me and a few of my colleagues in congress… that part caught me by surprise.

American: You’ve been in office since 2021, how have you changed since then?

Bush: I’d say that now I can’t expect my colleagues to be the same way today or tomorrow. I’ve learned that if I want something done, I have to work past my own comfort level. My third day in congress was the insurrection. I would have never thought that would have happened. So, I have learned ‘be ready for anything’ and just try to figure out what St. Louis needs, and I need everyone else to move around that.

American: Speaking of Jan. 6, you were a part of the protests after Mike Brown was killed. You must recall the Trump administration’s efforts to label Black Lives Matter as an insurrectionist group and put laws on the books that would jail them as terrorists? How does it make you feel to know that some people behind those efforts have now labeled the mostly white, violent insurrectionists as ‘hostages?’”

Bush: I know, I know. I think it’s disgustingespecially right now… to refer to them as ‘hostages’ especially since Oct. 7th…it’s egregious because there are people right now who are real hostages and we’re calling insurrectionists ‘hostages.’ No one forced them to show up at the capitol;

no one forced them to scale the walls, to bring zip-ties and a noose to hang someone; no one forced them to physically harm police officers. This was an attempt to overthrow our government because those folk did not believe Joe Biden won a democratic election-which was absolutely false.

American: What were you doing during the melee? Bush: We were barricaded in my office. Let me tell you, my concern wasn’t for myself, it was for my staff-they didn’t sign up to be put in harm’s way, they didn’t sign up for that kind of danger. I knew my danger because I come from Ferguson and all of that. I knew the target was on my back. I remember (saying) at that moment, ‘yeah we’re going to barricade these doors but if they come down these hallways and hit these doors, we bangin’ til the end’…I was gonna pick up whatever I could, and fight.

American: You’ve been credited for bringing millions of dollars to St. Louis from Washington... Bush: Nearly two billion…

American: I stand corrected…you’ve secured federal funding like the $3 million for a new community Healing Center in the city. What are you

Dollars

Continued from A1

The program, which began in Houston in 2022, aims to increase the presence of federal agencies in each city. It means a larger federal agency presence in St. Louis. The Drug Enforcement Agency aims to dismantle “criminal drug networks doing the most harm in communities, including in St. Louis,” DEA Administrator Anne Milgram said. “Drug-related crimes and violence continue to have a significant impact on our communities and demand a new approach,” Milgram said. “Expanding the Violent Crime Initiative further extends our potential to successfully investigate and prosecute criminals by harnessing the full potential of state, local, and federal partnerships.” Garland said the initiative has helped reduce violent crime through increased policing and criminal prosecution.

will cause them to lose the House and Senate in November?

Bush: Yes…well…I do think they’ll lose the House…they are imploding. The thing is they’re following the former white supremacistin-chief, Donald Trump...a lot of their decisions are based on orders coming down from him…

American: Do you mean like with the failed bipartisan immigration bill?

Bush: Right. They were like ‘Biden is weak on immigration,’ then here comes the immigration bill and it’s like ‘oh no, we’re not going to support it’ because Donald Trump said so, because it would make Joe Biden look like he accomplished something, and that would hurt Trump’s campaign.

American: Does that frustrate you?

most proud of in securing dollars for St. Louis and North St. Louis in particular?

Bush: All of it has been meaningful. But something as simple as, when the St. Louis Housing authority reached out and said, ‘our seniors won’t have access to broadband.’ People may think that’s not essential… ‘it’s not like its food or shelter’… but right now, in this dayand-age, people not having access to the Internet is a huge deal, especially for seniors dealing with applications for things that are lifesaving. That was important to me.

American: You’re part of the Squad. Do you think you all had to compromise to accomplish legislative gains in the House?

Bush: No, I don’t think we’ve had to compromise. But I do believe we’ve also had to work with people from across the aisle…Democrats who are more moderate and Republicans who are very conservative…like I’ve worked with Sen. Josh Hawley. Whoever is going to help me deliver for St. Louis, that’s who I’m working with.

American: It seems to me that the GOP is imploding with chaos in the House, their cultural war nonsense, and their attacks on reproductive rights. Do you think their self-destructive behavior

“The FBI reports that last year we saw a significant decrease in overall violent crime across the country compared to the previous year — including an over 13% decline in homicides,” Garland said. “That is the largest oneyear decline in homicides in 50 years. The Justice Department is not easing up on our efforts to reduce violent crime. In fact, today, we are doubling down.”

Overall crime rates in St. Louis are the lowest in a decade. Police officials attribute the improvement to their focus on gun intelligence and community partnerships. Alderwoman Laura Keys, who represents the 11th Ward, said policecommunity relations will help eliminate violent crime. “Years ago, we had police officers who regularly drove our community. We don’t see police in our community anymore,” Keys said. “But I don’t think we’ve had as many incidents as some other places, not a lot of

Bush: Yes, because, first, we’re the US House of Representatives, we are the governing body for the country. We should be grownups, we should be governing and passing legislation but instead it’s all this infighting. Some Republicans come from swing districts and they’re trying to tow-the-line with their constituents. But the House Freedom Caucus are like ‘No, we want a national ban on abortion; we want more voter suppression.

I do love, though, that I am in a position-when these horrific things, this messaging, when these attacks and all the change they want to see happenthat I am in place to be able to fight it because I’m not afraid to speak on it. That’s why I have the “Reparations Now” bill to see that reparations happen across this country.

American: Last question: There’s all this talk about Joe Biden being too old for a second term. What are your thoughts about another four years under Biden?

Bush: I’ll say there are some things Joe Biden has done that have surprised me in a good way like the student debt cancellation. There were a few other things President Biden pushed by executive action. I would say he’s done some good things, but when the majority of Democrats in this country are saying we want a ceasefire; When people are saying, ‘we don’t want our taxpayer dollars used to bomb people,’ when people are saying things they’ve never said before, our president has a decision to make…now!

Sylvester Brown Jr. is the Deaconess Foundation Community Advocacy Fellow.

violent crime. It is down.” U.S. Attorney Sayler Fleming said that by adding two additional prosecutors, St. Louis will grow safer.

“We have long had a focus in the Eastern District of Missouri on violent crime and complex criminal conspiracies, and the addition of two experienced prosecutors will allow us to expand that,” Fleming said.

According to the Major Cities Chiefs Association, which represents metropolitan police officials in major U.S. cities, overall violent crime decreased significantly in 2023. Detroit had the fewest number of homicides in over 50 years. Baltimore, New Orleans and Philadelphia each saw homicides drop by at least 20%.

“These declines are not just abstract statistics. As you know so well, they represent people — people who are still here to see their children grow up, to work toward fulfilling their dreams, and to contribute to their communities,” Garland said.

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American

Congresswoman Cori Bush spoke at the Power4STL with a $3,000,000 check for the acquisition and rehabilitation of a new facility, the Bullet Related Injury Clinic (BRIC) Thursday, Apr.4, 2024. This new comprehensive center will allow for the co-location of clinical, mental health, social, spiritual, and healing crisis care, as well as services to support the recovery of people with acute trauma needs.

Rights

Continued from A1

the disparities between the American ideal and the reality of American democracy,” said Strode.

“We step into this legacy knowing that now is the moment to both celebrate the strides we have made and recenter and recommit ourselves in the work to transform the policy landscape to make our region a more just place. With Freedom Summer STL we aim to ensure our community is equipped with the information and resources to actively participate in the democratic process.”

Freedom Summer STL will focus on four priority areas: voting, expungement, abolition, and housing justice.

Throughout the summer, over a series of community events in St. Louis and St. Louis County, ArchCity Defenders and partners will provide civics

Health

Continued from A1

those helping to fight those disparities. The film shows the doulas as heroes helping end Black maternal death and infant immortality.

The convening of the Black birthing community, and gathering support systems in conversation about the state of Black birth in America is this year’s goal– partnerships are Jamaa Birth Village,

training and opportunities for residents to engage with elected officials; educate residents on their voting rights – from what documents are required on election day to whether or not their right to vote has been restored following a conviction; conduct voter registration; provide criminal record expungement support; and 5) host legal clinics.

Freedom Summer STL will culminate in a rally and march in August.

“ArchCity’s Freedom Summer STL envisions public policy change in a way that inspires us,” said Rev. Bethany JohnsonJavois, President & CEO of Deaconess Foundation. “This collaborative and multi-tiered approach to civic engagement, electorate organizing, and policy implementation will have a true impact on the community and it captures the essence of the moment we are in. Components that include the legal clinics will be transformational

SSM Health, and Emmett Williams. “Black maternal health has not always been a priority in the St. Louis region,” said Okunsola M. Amadou, founder and CEO of Jamaa Birth Village.

According to Amadou, Black women are disproportionately impacted by negative birthing experiences due to a lack of access to comprehensive integrated maternal health services. These healthcare services include midwifery, a doula, lactation coun-

for many lives in the present while helping to build a more liberated future.”

Funding from the Policy Campaign Grant will assist Freedom Summer STL organizers in building capacity, with a goal of ensuring that information and resources can be easily accessed in a single setting.

The efforts will be a continuation of, and catalyst for, organizing and movement building efforts, providing community members with tools needed to impact policy change.

Deaconess’ Policy Campaign Grants support timely and urgent issue-based campaigns to advance public policy through grassroots advocacy, civic engagement and community organizing aligned with our desired impacts.

Historically, Policy Campaign grants have supported the successful mobilization of the electorate in support of Medicaid

seling, massage therapy, and chiropractic services.

“All these things existed in our communities before colonialism and capitalism,” added Amadou.

Jamaa Birthing Village has helped integrate these birthing services into Black and brown and poor communities in the St. Louis region.

“We are excited to partner with the City of St. Louis Department of Health, Mayor Tishaura Jones’ office, and receive sponsorship from SSM

Expansion on the November 2020 Missouri ballot. In 2023, Deaconess Foundation awarded funding to two nonprofit organizations, Alive & Well Communities to support social and emotional wellness policy change for youth and Missouri Jobs with Justice, to build public support and awareness for paid sick leave and economic equity

Health,” added Amadou. She pointed out that in 2015 there were less than 10 Black practicing doulas in the region. However, since the founding of Jamaa Birth Village over 460 Black doulas have been trained under Amadou across Missouri. “Every year we hear those same statistics and every year those statistics are devastating,” said Dr. Mati Hlatshwayo Davis, director of health for the City of St. Louis. “These statistics represent the pain and struggle

for working families through a living wage. Freedom Summer STL will kick off on the Juneteenth Holiday, Wednesday, June 19, in collaboration with the annual Juneteenth celebration of St. John’s UCC Church, Faith for Justice, and Freedom Arts & Education Center. The other event dates will be Saturday, June 29

of Black mothers.” Davis reminded those in attendance that the Black birthing experience doesn’t always have to be about pain and struggle.

“Black maternal health is beautiful, it is joyful, and it is celebratory,” she said. She shared that her office is working to address racial disparities to reduce Black maternal and infant immortality, saying that the leading cause of maternal mortality in Missouri is mental

Totally awesome

and Saturday, July 27, followed by the culminating march and rally on Friday, August 30.

To learn more about the campaign and events visit bit.ly/ FreedomSummerSTL Interest. Learn more about Deaconess’ funding initiatives and opportunities at deaconess.org/funding

health issues. Davis advocates for screening pregnant and recent pregnant mothers for depression and substance use disorders– providing immediate resources.

“Physicians need to work alongside and respect the voices and leadership of our doulas, social workers, and nurses,” she said.

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

SIUE East St. Louis Charter High School students (from left) Anaya Jackson and T’Niyah Black enjoyed the spectacle of the total solar eclipse on Monday, April 8, 2024.

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American

‘Taking Care of You’

Measles making concerning comeback in Missouri, US

Lack of vaccinations at root

By JoAnn Weaver St. Louis American

Like many other health disparities, there is a difference in the immunization rate for Black and white children.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 66.5% of children 19 to 35 months old are fully immunized compared to 71.5% of white children. The gap is not as large for children who have received MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccinations, but a recent surge in measles cases in Missouri and the United States is concerning to health officials.

According to the CDC, a total of 64 measles cases were reported in 17

n “I think the public should be aware that measles was one of the major killers among infectious diseases going back not too far, even in the mid-20th century.”

– George Turabelidze

Literally taking steps to boost mental health

By Dr. Graham A. Colditz Siteman Cancer Center

entire year of 2023, as reported by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS).

As the number of vaccinations continues to decrease, measles cases or outbreaks have emerged in several states. The Department of Health and Human Services recommends parents and guardians check their child’s vaccination records to make sure they have received the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine.

Statewide, the MMR vaccination rate among kindergarteners has dropped steadily from 95.4% in the 2016-2017 school year to 90.5% at

Apart from not smoking, it’s hard to find something that’s better for us than being physically active. From lowering the risk of heart disease and stroke to boosting mobility to adding healthy years to our lives, activity can have a positive impact on our health in many ways. And that doesn’t just include physical benefits; there are mental benefits as well.

Dr. Graham A. Colditz

“Physical activity can improve many mental health symptoms, including stress, depression and anxiety,” said Dr. Abby Cheng, an assistant professor and director of research at the Living Well Center at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. And with around 23% of U.S. adults having some level of poor mental health, those benefits can be significant.

n “Physical activity can improve many mental health symptoms, including stress, depression and anxiety.”

– Dr. Abby Cheng

Poor mental health can lower quality of life — both for an individual and their family and loved ones — as well as make it harder to be engaged at work or school or with other key obligations.

Regular physical activity can help prevent or manage longstanding mental health symptoms, and can have more immediate effects on how we’re feeling, Cheng said. Short, “on-demand”

Minority April is National Minority Health Month, and as health disparities continue to affect people from racial and ethnic minority groups throughout the region, St. Louis County Children’s Service Fund (CSF) is acting to reduce barriers to mental health care.

Through strategic investment in local providers, as well as community resources, including its Find A Service Tool, CSF is building awareness of serCSF bringing mental health care to

Barriers disproportionately impact minorities

vices available in St. Louis County. CSF offers individuals and families seeking care a way to locate specific providers and services near them using the Find A Service Tool, an interactive map found on its website at stlcsf.org/ find-a-service/ The tool addresses the lack of awareness of services for racial and ethnic minority groups by building knowledge of critical resources and St. Louis American

communities See CSF, A9 areas in the state of Missouri, as of March 21, 2024. Nationally, the total number of measles cases has already reached the level that occurred during the

Measles cases are rising in America as the number of vaccinations for childhood diseases continues to decline. The immunization rate for Black children is lower than that of white children, which could lead to more health problems in African American families.

Photo courtesy of romper.com

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American

CSF Executive Director Emily Koenig, right, with 2023 Community Mental Health Provider Awardee Latosha Fowlkes during the 2023 St. Louis American Charitable Foundation Salute to Excellence in Health Care Awards reception.

Measles

Continued from A8

the start of the 2023-2024 school year, according to preliminary data reported by Missouri school districts.

According to the DHSS, 92% of kindergarten-aged students are vaccinated in St. Louis County while 74% of kindergarten-aged students are vaccinated in St. Louis city.

While religious (non-medical) exemptions have simultaneously increased from 1.9% to 3.5% accounting for some of the decrease in vaccination rates, state epidemiologist George Turabelidze said travel is also playing a role in the decrease.

“A lot of U. S. residents travel abroad, and many countries are experiencing measles outbreaks as well because this vaccination is down worldwide, not just in the United States. If they are not vaccinated, they bring it back,” he said.

“Every time your population or community vaccination rate drops below 95

percent, especially below 90%, this is a setup for a measles outbreak.”

Turabelidze spoke with the St. Louis American concerning measles outbreaks, possible side effects of the vaccine and next steps to protect those most vulnerable to the disease - children and immunocompromised individuals.

The measles vaccine gives those vaccinated with just one dose 93% protection against measles infection. Both doses of the vaccine provide individuals with a 97% protection rate throughout their lifetime, according to the DHSS.

“I think the public should be aware that measles was one of the major killers among infectious diseases going back not too far, even in the mid20th century,” Turabelizde said.

“We have high rates of vaccinations in this country and because of mass vaccinations, this disease has become unknown.”

Herd immunity, achieved through a measles vaccination rate of 95% or more, is crucial

Children (Fully Immunized)

Percentage of children aged 19 to 35 months who are fully immunized, 2017

Non-Hispanic Black Non-Hispanic White

66.5

Non-Hispanic Black Non-Hispanic White ratio

71.5 0.9

Source: CDC 2018. Vaccination coverage among children aged 19-35 months – United States, 2017

Children (MMR)

Percentage of children aged 19 to 35 months who received the universally recommended vaccination – 1 dose of measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), 2017

Non-Hispanic Black

89.5

for preventing disease outbreaks.

“Achieving this level of vaccination creates a barrier that limits the spread of infectious disease within a community, safeguarding those who are unable to be vaccinated due to their age or compromised immune systems,” Turabelidze said.

“If you don’t vaccinate preschoolers now, generation after generation, you

Non-Hispanic White Non-Hispanic Black Non-Hispanic White ratio

91.2 1.0

will continue [to see] dropping vaccination rates.” Measles is a highly contagious and serious disease, especially serious for children under age five and those who are immunocompromised. Common symptoms include a rash that starts as flat red spots on the head and spreads to other parts of the body, high fever, cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes, and tiny white spots inside

the mouth.

The virus spreads through coughing and sneezing and can live for up to two hours in an airspace after an infected person leaves an area. If not treated, complications can grow in severity including an elevated risk of hospitalization and pneumonia.

“In some cases, you can develop a brain infection and end up in a death outcome, so it is a serious

children and youth served by CSF’s inaugural Grassroots Funding Partners from October 1, 2021 – September 3, 2022, 79.92% were nonwhite.

A complete breakdown of the populations served is as follows:

58.79% identified as Black/African American.

identified as Asian. 3.75% identified as biracial/multiracial. 0.19% identified as Hispanic. As the organization continues to grow its impact, CSF aims to reach even more historically underserved groups within St. Louis County. “Racial and ethnic minority groups are disproportionally affected by barriers to accessing mental health care,” said Emily Koenig, executive director of CSF. “Mental health is healthcare, and maintaining mental and physical health are equally important for a person’s overall

Colditz

Continued from A8 periods of activity can quickly help with symptoms like stress, anxiety and low mood.

“Physical activity causes the brain to send out ‘happy’ chemicals like endorphins and serotonin, which make us feel better, raise our energy levels and reduce pain,” she said.

If activities like running, swimming or trips to the gym don’t excite

you, there are many other options. Most activities that get your body moving more than normal can have mental health benefits. They can be walks around the neighborhood, weeding in a community garden, doing strength exercises in the park or giving a child a piggyback ride — whatever you enjoy.

Ideally, this should add up weekly to around 150 minutes or more of moderate-intensity physical activity, like walking or gardening, or 75 minutes or more of vigorous-inten-

wellbeing. Through our strategic funding of local mental health providers and resources, CSF hopes to continue eliminating these barriers and providing access to services and care to all in need.”

CSF’s Core Funding Opportunity also supports services for minority groups. Of the 80,950 children who received mental and behavioral health services from CSF’s Core partners from January 2023 – June 2023, 58.5% were nonwhite, and the services were most predominantly provided to Black/African American children, at 45.5%.

sity activity, like running or lap swimming.

Vigorous activities may provide the biggest boost to mental health, but the most important thing is to try to be active regularly — whatever the type or amount. And if you’re starting a new routine, be sure to start small and slowly build from there.

That’s the best way to keep up with physical activity over time. And don’t be shy to ask for advice or help.

Of course, therapy and medication play an import-

Children and families seeking resources in St. Louis County can also take advantage of the CSF-funded Community Resource Initiative, a partnership with St. Louis County Library and Epworth Children & Family Services to bring social workers to five library branches to remove barriers that prevent access to care.

Additionally, youth, parents, and guardians can utilize the Youth Connection Helpline, a 24/7 crisis intervention

ant role in improving mental health, especially when a person has severe symptoms, Cheng said. “But therapy and medications are more effective when a person is also engaging in physical activity.”

Yet, even with all that physical activity offers, many of us find it hard to fit it into our schedules. And that can be especially so when experiencing mental health symptoms.

But it is worth considering that physical activity and exercise can have an immediate benefit to how

disease, and we encourage everyone to be protected,” Turabelidze said.

This vaccine has been used in the United States since the 1970s and is a safe and effective way to protect children from measles, according to the DHSS.

To be fully immunized, the DHSS recommends children receive two doses of the MMR vaccine, with the first dose between ages 12-15 months and the second dose between ages 4-6 years old. Infants as young as 6 months can receive the first dose if traveling to areas where the measles infection rate is high, according to the DHSS.

Families should consult their healthcare provider to discuss appropriate vaccine options for their children.

Most health insurance plans cover vaccines, but individuals should check with their insurance provider to verify coverage. For those without insurance, the Vaccines for Children Program, funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), provides free vaccines to children who qualify.

and support hotline that connects individuals with ongoing care. To contact the helpline, call (314) 819-8802 or text BHEARD to 31658.

“Part of what we do at CSF is build awareness of the many excellent mental health services in our region because we know it’s the first step to increasing access,” said Koenig.

“In addition to funding our partners here in St. Louis County, we also offer our Find A Service Tool on our website, which is a great way to see many of the resources available in the CSF staff and board members at the 2023 Salute to Excellence in Health Care Awards Reception.

we feel, and that may provide extra motivation for lacing up our shoes, texting a friend and heading out together for a walk. Often, the hardest part of most activities is just getting started.

“For someone who is experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety or bothersome stress,” Cheng said, “physical activity should be one of the first steps taken to address those symptoms.” It’s your health. Take control.

region and where they are offered.” Since its creation in 2008, CSF has invested more than $550 million in community organizations that offer children’s mental and behavioral health services, including crisis intervention, respite care, therapeutic and non-therapeutic counseling, substance use treatment and more. It is the largest children’s service fund in Missouri,

For more information about CSF, its funded partners, and other available resources, please visit stlcsf.org or call (314) 615-5850.

If you, or anyone you know, is in a mental health crisis, get help immediately by dialing 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Dr. Graham A. Colditz, associate director of prevention and control at Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, is an internationally recognized leader in cancer prevention and the creator of the free prevention tool YourDiseaseRisk.com

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American

The St. Louis American’s award winning NIE program provides newspapers and resources to more than 8,000 teachers and students each week throughout the school year, at no charge.

CLASSROOM SPOTLIGHT

Students Marli Phillips, Jordan Jenkins, Joseph Mwamba, Erik Davis, and Tyree Howard, in Ms. Stovall’s fourthgrade class at Gateway MST Elementary School, are using the engineering design process to construct a pyramid out of plastic cups without using their hands.

SCIENCE CORNER

Problem Solving

What do all great scientists have in common? They are skilled critical thinkers and problem solvers. Just like you can train your body and your muscles to work more effectively, you can also train your mind to think more critically. Give your brain a work out with mazes, brain teaser riddles, Sudoku puzzles, math equations, etc. Read mystery books and learn to look for clues and make predictions. Look for patterns. Patterns are everywhere—colors, numbers, letters, etc. When you identify patterns, your brain can make connections quickly and easily. Think of different uses for common everyday items, such

SCIENCE INVESTIGATION

Background Information:

In this experiment, you will see if you can walk on air. What is your hypothesis? Do you think it is possible to walk on air?

Support your answer with specific reasons and details.

Materials Needed:

• Garbage Bag Filled with Air

• Balloons Filled with Air

• Balloons Filled with Water

• Tape

• 4 24” by 24” Cardboard Squares

Procedure:

q Make two strong platforms by gluing two pieces of cardboard together so that the grooves (lines) in the cardboard are going in the opposite directions.

w Try standing on one of your platforms supported by a garbage bag filled with air. (Take caution and make sure to have a partner help you balance or stand near a wall.)

Does it hold your weight?

e Now try balloons filled with air. Predict which will hold your weight better.

r Start out standing on one of your platforms supported by a bunch of

MATH CONNECTION

as a paperclip. How many different uses can you discover?

Ask yourself questions, such as how many different ways can you stack a set of blocks? Which way would give you the tallest structure? Which way would give you the strongest structure? Keep an open mind and be flexible as you consider your options. Practice this process often. Brainstorm a list. Set a timer and see how many ideas you can generate. Then, select your best three choices and develop a hypothesis that you can test.

Learning Standards:

I can read nonfiction text for main idea and supporting details. I can make text-to-self connections.

balloons. The balloons stay in place best if you sandwich them between two platforms. Try taping the balloons to the bottom platform and then putting the second platform on top.

t Have a friend pop one balloon at a time. What happens when the balloons pop? How few balloons still support your weight?

Extension: Try the same thing with balloons filled with water. Be sure you do this testing somewhere that can get really wet. Analyze: Which holds your weight better, balloons filled with water or balloons filled with air? Which substance can hold your weight with the fewest balloons? Why do you think one works better than the other?

Learning Standards: I can follow sequential directions to complete an experiment. I can create a hypothesis and analyze results. I can draw conclusions.

Give your problem solving ability a challenge with these equations.

z

b – 7.2 = 1.8

b = _______

x w ÷ 8 = 0.6

c

w = ______

k = 50 ÷ 5

k = ______

v Write the sentence as an equation.

b decreased by 150 is 221

b Write the sentence as an equation. z multiplied by 280 is 179

n Write the sentence as an equation. 72 is equal to z divided by 369

Learning Standards: I can add, subtract, multiply, and divide to solve a problem.

SCIENCE STARS

African-American Mechanical Engineer & Inventor Ruth J. Miro

Ruth J. Miro was born on February 4, 1960, in New York City and grew up in the Bronx. She attended New York’s Monroe Business College to study business and e-commerce. Miro received patent #6,113,298 on September 5, 2000, for her improved paper ring design. A press release to promote her new product stated, “These new and improved paper rings are ideal for business professionals, especially authors, students, and schools. There is an increased excitement over the range of functions it serves. They can be used for sorting, filing [loose leaf] papers, index cards, recipe cards, photo pages, memos and much more… RJ Miro paper rings come in an array of colors such as Red, Black, Green, White, Blue and Gold.” She also received patent #6,764,100 for a stationery organizer and is the founder of RJMiro, which designs and sells supplies for the school, office, and home.

Miro is a member of the International Association of Black Millionaires and the National Association for Female Executives. She has received recognition and many awards, including Empire Who’s Who, Manchester Who’s Who, and Cambridge Who’s Who. The Wall of Tolerance gave her an award for her public stance against hate and intolerance. (The Wall of Tolerance is located in the Civil Rights Memorial Center in Montgomery, Alabama.)

In addition to her business accomplishments, Miro supports literacy by donating money to various educational charities and authors. She features authors on her business website to promote their work. She states, “I would like to see more African-American stores buying and selling African-American products.”

Learning Standards: I can read a biography about a person who has made contributions in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. I can make textto-world connections.

MAP CORNER DID YOU KNOW?

Did you know the first person to use a stapler was King Louis XV of France?

A ballpoint pen can write approximately 45,000 words.

Enjoy these activities that help you get to know your St. Louis American newspaper.

Activity One — Creative Predictions for Jobs: Review the Help Wanted section in the Classified ads. What characteristics do the employers seek—experience, dependability, etc.? Which characteristics seem to be the most important to employers? What job do you think you are best suited for? Why? Write a paragraph explaining what skills and characteristics you have that will make you a good employee.

Activity Two — Who Am I? Riddles: Fold a piece of paper in half. On the outside flap, write a riddle about a character of a newspaper story. Paste the newspaper article on the inside, highlighting the character’s name and characteristics used to create the riddle. Share the riddle with your classmates.

Learning Standards: I can use the newspaper to locate information. I can draw conclusions. I can use character traits and think critically.

Teachers, if you are using the St. Louis American’s NIE program and would like to nominate your class for a Classroom Spotlight, email: nie@stlamerican.com.

Photo by Ms. Stovall

From social work to banking

My journey of stewardship, adaptation

By Orvin T. Kimbrough For The St. Louis American

I am Orvin Kimbrough, a social worker, who happens to lead a nearly $3 billion in asset bank. I consider myself ‘The Accidental Banker’ because I never aspired to be in the banking industry. When I was handed the baton to lead Midwest BankCentre in January 2019, I had no idea what a ride I was in for. I had been on the bank’s board since 2014, joining shortly after I had become CEO of United Way of Greater St. Louis. It was the board members’ job to ensure that we had the right CEO and management, make sure we had appropriate risk management systems in place, and provide oversight. We had a staff of traditional, professional bankers.

n Most people from the community I grew up in had a suspicion of financial institutions.

On that day in January, when I became CEO, I crossed the Rubicon. I maintained my presence as a board member, but now I was one of those traditional, professional bankers – or was I? Transitioning industries from the nonprofit sector into the banking sector was one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my life. My goal was to be a good steward of the asset I was entrusted with, surround myself with people who I trusted to give sound advice, be impactful, and have fun.

My foremost objective was the medical oath – “Do No Harm.”

We implemented a strategic framework to guide the bank’s efforts, which included deepening partnerships with our customers and communities, ensuring that leadership was aligned philosophically, emphasizing that everyone deserves a fair chance at credit, and prioritizing profitability.

Significant change was the backdrop of my transition. During my first two years, the bank underwent significant board and leadership transitions. I spent that initial year drinking from the proverbial water hose.

In the second year, the challenges and unpredictability brought by COVID tested the resilience of our customers, community, and the bank. This was followed by

See KIMBROUGH, B2

FAFSA fiasco could keep Black students out of college

By Joseph Williams Word in Black

It’s been one thing after another with the new-but-notnecessarily-improved Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), a form that helps students pay for college.

PeoPle on the Move

The Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis has appointed Carol Daniel as its new director of the Save Our Sisters Women’s Empowerment Program. With an extensive background in media, community service and outreach, the former KMOX broadcaster “brings a wealth of experience and a fervent dedication to empowering women and individuals,” according to Michael McMillan, Urban League president and CEO. Daniel will continue her Nine PBS podcast series, which can be heard on ninepbs.com.

Walker appointed new SBEC board chair

The St. Louis Small Business Empowerment Center (SBEC) has appointed Cheryl D. S. Walker as its new board chair. Walker, who leads the Walker Commercial Law Group, has served on the SBEC board for five years. SBEC partners with entrepreneurs to help them access capital, grow their capacity, and create wealth within their communities. SBEC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that offers services at no cost to clients. Walker

Brien Graham joins

KAI Dallas office

Brien Graham

St. Louis based KAI has hired architect Brien Graham, AIA, NOMA, NCARB as Civic, Municipal & Cultural Market leader at its Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas office. Graham will oversee project management, channel team alignment and growth through mentorship, and strategically drive market positioning, sales and profit management.

He has held positions prior to KAI that include senior project manager at LPA, Inc.; associate project Manager at Richmond Group; and director of facilities and project manager at Concord Church.

Canyon to participate in public safety summit

First, the long-anticipated rollout of the redesigned online application was delayed for three months because it just wasn’t ready. Then, when it finally did appear, a variety of bugs and glitches, including some that could reduce the amount of federal tuition aid, kept students and their families from completing it. Now, Chronicle of Higher Education reports that schools are receiving FAFSA applications with incorrect tax information from families

None of this is good news for Black students, some 80% of whom depend on FAFSA to help pay for ballooning college costs.

According to the nonprofit National College Attainment Network (NCAN), roughly 34% of all eligible high school seniors have submitted FAFSA applications through March 22, an overall decline of nearly 29% since last year. But the problem is most acute, according to NCAN data, among low-income schools and schools with high concentrations of minority students. There, the percentage decline in 2024 FAFSA applications is slightly more than 35%. See

confusion

Katerina Canyon

Katerina Canyon, executive director of The Peace Economy Project (PEP), will participate in the State of Public Safety in St. Louis summit on April 27, 2024 at Tegeler Hall on the Saint Louis University campus. PEP advocates for a holistic approach to public safety that prioritizes community-led initiatives, economic development and job creation, enhanced health and social services, and comprehensive reform in law enforcement and criminal justice systems.

fall.

Daniel joins Urban League of Metro St. Louis

Orvin Kimbrough, Midwest BankCentre chair and CEO, (right) helped celebrate the opening of the R&R Marketplace in Dellwood, a project that was founded and guided by Pastors Ken and Beverly Jenkins. Midwest BankCentre financed $5.75 million in loans for the 88,000 square foot center and is also a tenant.

Carol Daniel

Photo courtesy of Midwest BankCentre

Bryan Cook, director of higher education policy at the Urban Institute Center on Education Data and Policy, fears that the

over FAFSA applications might have already stopped some Black students from entering college in the

takes the helm of the board as SBEC enters its second decade.

Cheryl D.S. Walker

Photo courtesy of Urban Institute

FAFSA

Continued from B1

Besides worsening an already-bad time crunch for colleges and students who needed the financial information weeks ago, the FAFSA fiasco could keep Black students — an outsized number of whom rely on federal aid — out of college classrooms this fall.

“Because Black students are disproportionately FAFSA filers, this has a huge impact on their ability to make a decision about both where, and if, they go to college,” says Bryan Cook, director of higher

Kimbrough

Continued from B1

the Federal Reserve slashing interest rates to historic lows to bolster the economy, dealing with heightened “margin pressures” and a pervasive sense of uncertainty in how we approached the business of banking with so much in the air.

During this time, we diligently worked on leveraging technology and digitization to enhance customer service, streamline operations, and support our local communities through the turbulence.

Behind COVID loomed a recession, followed by the Federal Reserve raising interest rates at an unprecedented clip. During these challenges, I transitioned into a banker role, but one of a different breed.

The idea of stewardship is as old as scripture. As I transitioned into banking, I felt the weight of the role. I came in conscience of the fact that banks had participated in historical

education policy at the Urban Institute Center on Education Data and Policy.

Cook worries that some frustrated Black students, worried that they can’t pay for college without federal assistance, may downgrade their college choice or give up on college completely. Either option, he says, would have negative, long-term effects on their earning power in the job marketplace.

Instead of the FAFSA application being open Oct. 1, enough time for students and colleges to prepare for the fall 2024 semester, the form didn’t launch until Dec. 31, setting off a scramble. The subsequent series of errors and submission

wrongs, and it had only been ten years since the market crashed on the heels of subprime lending when large financial institutions were responsible for issuing what they called “ghetto loans” that extracted billions in wealth from Black people and others as they lost their homes. Most people from the community I grew up in had a suspicion of financial institutions.

During those early days, I received more than my fair share of deals that were nowhere near bankable. The business of banking is straightforward and operates on razor thin margins, requiring an astonishing 99% accuracy rate for profitability – a standard rarely seen in other industries. I’ve had numerous conversations explaining why the bank can’t do certain things that seem reasonable to the party asking. For instance, I was once told, “there is no need for me to submit my financials, just trust me.” Trust is the foundation of banking, that’s why

problems didn’t help; at last count, only around 20% of applications have been processed, resulting in a nationwide backlog of some 6 million applications.

Even though the Ed Department delayed the rollout to fix problems it knew about, a technicality it overlooked could end up costing students almost $2 billion in aid. And that’s before the cascade of issues that have surfaced in recent months.

Cook says those numbers are exacerbated by the fact that lowincome, high-minority schools have fewer guidance counselors who can help guide students

through the process. That can be important, experts say, because heads of low-income minority households tend to have lower rates of college degree attainment.

“We know that Black and Hispanic students disproportionately attend high-poverty schools, where their ratio of guidance counselors to students is double what that what they are in more wealthy schools,” he says. “So the combination of Black students disproportionately filing FAFSAs and disproportionately having less access to guidance counselor’s means that this issue with the rollout of the new FAFSA is having

it’s important that banks verify!

Surrounding myself with the right people has been key to my success in life, and it’s no different at the Bank. The leaders I have been able to curate into my network make me a better leader and I enjoy the work we do together. Fun isn’t just a perk; it’s essential.

Years ago, each time I met with the CEO of

a much harder impact on black students.” Indeed, studies have found that Black students are 1.2 times more likely than white students to attend a school with a law-enforcement officer but without a guidance counselor. The counselors can be critical to completing the FAFSA

And every bit of financing helps: According to a study by College Board, for the 2022-23 academic year, average tuition and fees for a public four-year school averaged $10,940 for in-state students and $28,240 for out-of-state students, according to the latest data from College

team’s success at the bank.

Board. Private nonprofit four-year schools amassed a much higher $39,400 average. Add room and board, books, and other expenses to the mix, and that bill goes up several thousand dollars more.

Given those hurdles, Cook worries that Black student enrollment in college — already on the decline in part because of skyrocketing tuition and the Supreme Court dismantling of affirmative action in school admission decisions — is about to take another hit because of the FAFSA snafu. “My biggest fear,” Cook says, “is that we may have already lost some students.”

Enterprise Holdings, he would always ask, “Are you having fun?” My knee-jerk reaction was always to say yes. I later realized the point he was making – why do it if you’re not having fun? We dedicate so much of our lives to our work; we might as well enjoy it. I’ve found that creating an environment where purpose and fun intersect has been instrumental in our

When I walked into my Chesterfield office five years ago, I settled into my chair. Shortly after, I received a call from Annie Malone about their May Day Parade. As a foster kid and former resident, I couldn’t ignore the significance of their outreach on that day. I have studied business, theology, and social work. I have led in the human services, faith-based sectors, and banking. I have served on the boards of a university, global nonprofit, a construction company, private companies, and a public company. I sit at the intersection of business; that’s always the way I’ve wanted it. But that wasn’t always in the cards. Reflecting on the call from Annie Malone, I’m reminded of the countless young people and professionals who might be unoptimized, who might not fit into the “traditional” role but possess untapped potential to contribute meaningfully to

our communities. If they might look at my journey and once again believe in their potential, that is enough for me.

Considering the challenges we’ve faced over the past five years—pandemic, fluctuations in the interest rate environment, supply chain shortages, and geopolitical uncertainty—the looming question on many minds is the impact of artificial intelligence on all industries, banking included. We are at a business turning point. Now, more than ever, we will need leaders who have high emotional intelligence and what some call “soft skills.” I think they have always been the most critical skills, but as artificial intelligence transforms so many industries, they will become even more crucial. I think the bank of the future will require a different type of banker. Perhaps... a social worker as a banker?

Orvin T. Kimbrough is chair and CEO, Midwest BankCentre

Orvin T. Kimbrough and his bank work with many members of the community. From left are Pastor Greg Holder of The Crossing Church, Pastor David Hawkins of Living the Word Church and Kimbrough.

Photo courtesy of Midwest BankCentre

n “All I have to say is: The revenge tour is over.”

– South Carolina guard Raven Johnson on quest to avenge last year’s NCAA Women’s Tournament semifinal loss to Iowa

Sports

InSIdE SportS

By Earl Austin Jr.

Saint Louis U. wins the WNIT Championship

The Saint Louis University women’s basketball team concluded another historic season by winning the championship of the WNIT.

The Billikens defeated Minnesota 69-50 in front of an enthusiastic crowd of more than 1,500 fans last Saturday at the First Community Arena on the campus of SIUEdwardsville. In winning their first tournament championship in the history of the women’s basketball program, the Billikens also became the first women’s program in the history of the Atlantic 10 Conference to win a postseason tournament. The Billikens finished with a 22-18 record and the winner of 11 of its last 12 games.

In getting to the championship game, the Billikens have played a number of close games, but it was a different story on Saturday as they dominated the game from start to finish. SLU led 16-9 at the end of the first quarter and built the lead to 33-21 at halftime as senior guard Julia Martinez hit a 3-pointer just ahead of the buzzer. In the second half, the Billikens continued their dominance as they built their lead to as high as 27 points. They utilized some excellent 3-point shooting and a tremendous defensive effort to dominate the Gophers from the Big Ten Conference. way.”

SLU made 11 3-pointers and shot 45 percent from long distance while holding Minnesota to 33 percent shooting from the field and 17 percent from 3-point range. Senior guard Kyla McMakin scored a game-high 20 points and earned a spot on the All-Tournament Team. McMakin closed out her stellar career with more than 2,500 points and two NCAA Tournament appearances at SLU and Longwood in addition to the WNIT championship. Guard Peyton Kennedy scored 19 points and grabbed five rebounds while making three 3-pointers. She was selected the Most Valuable Player of the tournament after averaging 22 points a game in the Billikens’ six victories. Point guard Kennedy Calhoun scored 11 points while senior guard Julia Martinez had a brilliant all around game with 10 rebounds, six assists and five steals. Forward Brooklyn Gray added eight points and five rebounds, including a pair of 3-pointers. It marked the second consecutive year that head coach Rebecca Tillett has guided her Billikens to a championship. Last season, SLU won the Atlantic 10 Conference postseason tournament to earn the school’s first ever berth in the NCAA Tournament.

The Saint Louis University women’s basketball team won the championship of the WNIT with a 69-50 over MInnesota on Saturday. The Billikens became the first women’s basketball program in the history of the Atlantic 10 Conference to win a postseason tournament championship.

SportS EyE

Alvin A. Reid

With

Dawn Staley, South Carolina did things ‘the right way’

The Caitlin Clark coronation was scheduled for late Sunday afternoon in Cleveland, Ohio last Sunday. Coach Dawn Staley and South Carolina had another plan – and the plan was perfect.

After falling behind by 11 points early in the NCAA Women’s National Tournament title game, South Carolina outscored Iowa by 23 points to prevail 87-75. Staley’s women finished their season at 37-0 – and she wondered how her team’s accomplishments were lost in the Caitlin scoring-record commotion. “We quietly have done things, in my opinion, the right way,” Staley explained in a postgame press conference.

Only five women’s basketball programs have completed undefeated seasons. South Carolina is now among them. Somehow the season-long quest for perfection became less important than Clark’s scoring marks, coach Kim Mulkey and LSU’s circus atmosphere, and record TV ratings.

“We find the right pieces to really help us do things the right way; whether it is discipline or how we approach basketball. In return we have success in the wins column and very little disappointment in the loss column.

“I don’t think that is talked about enough. What we’ve been able to do. I don’t know why. I really don’t care why. We’re going to keep doing what we’re doing the right

Women’s college basketball is as popular as ever at the close of the 2023-24 season and Clark is a major reason. But it is a team game, and the best team by far in the country won the title and didn’t lose a game. That would carry the day in NCAA men’s college basketball, and it would lead sports news telecasts - not a player achieving scoring records.

Tessa Johnson, a freshman, was ready when Staley called on her to help spark South Carolina after falling behind. She responded with 19 points, including a pair of huge three-point baskets that helped push her team’s lead to double digits in the third quarter. There is no jealousy on this team, it is one for all and all for one.

“We’re unselfish people,” Johnson said. Keep in mind that South Carolina was loaded with seniors last season when Iowa stunned them in a national semifinal game in 2023. Staley’s team had five new starters when the season began, which is rare.

Of course, the Gamecocks needed veteran players to excel too, and senior center Kamilla Cardoso was named the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player. She totaled 15 points and 17

rebounds in the national championship victory. “Kamila Cardoso was not going to let us lose a game in the NCAA tournament,” an emotional Staley told ESPN minutes after the game ended. “She played through an injury. She played like one of the top picks in the WNBA Draft.” Staley also praised Clark, noting her importance to women’s college basketball.

I want to personally thank Caitlin Clark for lifting up our sport,” Staley

said. “She carried a heavy load for our sport. When she is the No. 1 pick in the WNBA draft, she’s gonna lift that league up as well.

So, Caitlin Clark…you are one of the GOATs of our game. We appreciate you.”

The Reid Roundup

South Carolina appreciates Dawn Staley to the tune of a $250,000 bonus for winning the national championship…South Carolina’s bench outscored Iowa’s 37-0, a record…

After posting an NCAA Women’s Tournament record 18 points in the first quarter, Caitlin Clark would score just 12 more on five-of-20 shooting…Credit the defense of Raven Johnson, whose two steals late in the first half set the stage for her team’s second-half surge…Clark added the all-time NCAA Women’s Tournament scoring record to her accomplishments by netting 492 points in four tournament appearances…Earl Austin was on the scene in Minneapolis when the SLU Lady Billikens won the Women’s NIT title. He compared the South Carolina-Iowa first half to the first round of the Marvin Hagler-Tommy Hearns championship boxing match in 1985… By 10 p.m., NCAA women’s college basketball got a reminder of its place in the nation’s sports hierarchy. The story that John Calipari was leaving Kentucky to coach Arkansas became the lead story on ESPN Sportscenter, moving South Carolina, Staley, Clark and a perfect season to secondary status. Do we have the best coach in the nation? The whole wide world? Be on the lookout.

Earl Austin Jr.

Alvin A. Reid

South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley cuts down the net after winning the NCAA Women’s National Tournament championship 87-75 on Sunday.

Photo courtesy of the AP

Photo by Earl Austin Jr.

Tracey Bryant named SBA Minority Owned Small Business Person of Year

Tracey (Tre’) Arelious Bryant, Renew Life Properties founder and CEO, will be honored as Minority-Owned Small Business Person of the Year during the annual Small Business Association Awards

Luncheon an SBA Exhibit Galas at 11 a.m.

Thursday May 2, 2024 at Twisted Tree Steakhouse Restaurant in Sunset Hills, MO.

Maureen E. Brinkley, SBA St. Louis district office, said Bryant has

The ACLU-MO is collaborating with Harris-Stowe State University’s Social Justice Institute to host its first” Expungement Pop-up” referred to as the Second Chance at Justice Expungement Resource Fair from 2 to 6 p.m.

used counseling from VetBiz (Veterans Business Outreach Center) to start and grow his real estate investment firm and pivot to a more educational and advisory model.

Joining Bryant as 2024 honorees are: Small Business Person of the Year: Charles (Charlie) M. Downs, Sugarfire Smokehouse, St. Louis. Downs used several SBA loans to grow his business and help his chain of restaurants survive during COVID.

WomanOwned Small Business Person of the Year: Jessica Beeson, Willow Tree Tutoring, LLC, St. Charles. Beeson has used SCORE counseling from Score St. Louis Bi-State Region to grow her small tutoring

business. VeteranOwned Small Business Person: Gavin Douglas Pringle, JAKAPA, St. Louis. Pringle completed SBA Boots to Business training before he left the Navy and used VetBiz

Services to start and grow his educational technology company.

Small Business Advocate: Laura Leister, Pieces: The Board Game Bar & Restaurant. Leister used SBA loans to keep her café and restaurant afloat during COVID. She serves her business community through the Community Improvement District as a commissioner and as director of the Soulard Business Association. While National Small

ACLU, Harris-Stowe to host Second Chance Resource Fair

Saturday, April 13, 2024 in the William L. Clay Early Child Development Center (Professional Development Room.) This event will feature expungement/reentry specific organizations who will provide individuals with justiceinvolved histories opportunities to explore expungement and reentry related resources. It is our hope to provide the communityat-large with a wealth of

Business Week is April 28

– May 4, Small Business Week of Eastern Missouri (SBWEM) will host events from April 21 – May 11. For more information on SBWEM, including the Small Business Lenders Awards Luncheon, SBA Annual Awards Luncheon and SBA Exhibit Gala, and seminars and webinars to be held throughout Eastern Missouri, please visit the Small Business Week of Eastern Missouri website

relevant and timely information to assist individuals with justiceinvolved histories in learning about the expungement process as well as how to make application for expungement; if eligible. “Over the course of the next 7-months we are coordinating a series of monthly Expungement Pop-Ups, concluding in October. America is a nation of second chances, and it is critical that our criminal and juvenile justice systems provide meaningful opportunities for impacted groups to experience restoration, rehabilitation, and redemption via second chance,” according to L. Elaine

Shephard McCaskill Foundation supports Keyway Center

The Shepard McCaskill Foundation has selected Keyway Center for Diversion & Reentry (Keyway) as an inaugural recipient of a grant which provides approximately $550,000 over the course of two years, primarily to be used for general operating expenses and staff wellness initiatives. The Shepard McCaskill Foundation established the grant as part of its efforts to aid reentry and supportive services for justice-involved individuals and their families.

“We chose Keyway as one of our first recipients because we were impressed with their holistic approach to supporting women transitioning out of incarceration,” Shepard and McCaskill said in a release.

“They have shown tremendous success in reducing recidivism and in helping these women reenter the community and reunite with their families. We’re glad to provide unrestricted funds to help this remarkable organization increase its

capacity to serve St. Louis women and families.”

April Foster, Keyway executive director, said the organization is “thrilled to receive this grant and deeply grateful to the Shepard McCaskill Foundation.”

“Recognizing that the

deputy director for community engagement.

majority of women in jail and prisons are mothers, we understand that their success upon reentry strengthens families and transforms communities. This grant empowers us to make an even more significant generational impact.”

Sutton Mbionwu,

L. Elaine Sutton Mbionwu

Tracey Bryant

To live, laugh, love and lie

George Wallace and Marsha Warfield to play Helium next weekend

By Kenya Vaughn The St. Louis American

Even though St. Louis is the home of one of his comedy heroes, standup veteran George Wallace couldn’t help but roast our city a bit ahead of his two-night engagement at Helium Comedy Club next weekend.

“First thing let’s talk about the St. Louis international Airport,” Wallace said. “I just want to let the people of St. Louis know that the only thing international in St. Louis is the House of Pancakes.

It was all in good fun.

n We know laughter is the best medicine in the world. That’s why I encourage people to overdose on laughter.”

- George Wallace

“We’re coming to Red Foxx’s hometown, to Cedric’s hometown and Lawanda Page’s hometown – and we are going to have a good time,” Wallace said. He will be joined on the bill with fellow comedy veteran Marsha Warfield. “We are coming to live, love, learn, listen, laugh and lie.”

Wallace has been in the comedy business for nearly five decades. He knew he wanted to be a comedian since he was six years old and counts Redd Foxx among his alltime inspirations. The Atlanta native relocated to Ohio for a career opportunity and ended up at University of Akron, where he studied marketing, advertising and transportation. After graduating college, he moved to New York City so that he could establish himself as a comedian. He was a top-performing advertising salesperson by the time he successfully pivoted into comedy. He secured The Comic Strip in New York as a client and shared that he dabbled in comedy. He was told to come by on a Thursday night to audition for a slot.

“I’ve been on stage ever since,” Wallace said.

Wallace is one of the few comedians that can own any room he plays, regardless of the audience demographic.

Last week he and Warfield were in Austin, TX. “Half the house was Hispanic,” Wallace said with pride. He also said that all of them were doubled over with laughter.

The secret for his ability to connect with audiences of all types is simple.

“I talk about things that people would

naturally say or do,” Wallace said. I thank God for what I do. I get choked up every time I mention this because all I do is lie.

I just make up [expletive]. They pay me and say, “great job, come on back here tomorrow.”

He says that his purpose on earth is to give back through laughter.

“It says in the Bible that laughter is healing for the soul,” Wallace said. “We

See Wallace, C8

‘Be proud

of your African heritage’

The St. Louis American

From her early days as a social studies teacher and journeys across 10 African countries, to spearheading the African Heritage Youth Organization (AHYO) and co-founding the Universal African Peoples Organization (UAPO), Safiyah Chauvin — affectionately called Mama Safiyah — has shaped thousands of lives in St. Louis and globally through cultural advocacy, political activism, and by championing positive social change.

By Ashley Winters

The St. Louis American

St. Louis Earth Day Festival is the largest Earth Day celebration in the Midwest, according to its organizer Earthday 365.

The free, family-friendly event 2024 theme is Climate Action and it will take place on 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday April 20 and 21 at the Muny Grounds in Forest Park. The annual festival will have educational activities, entertainment, local businesses, and planet-friendly food options.

“The time is now for us to come together as a region to address climate Saving

Jo-elle Mogerman (former St. Louis Zoo Wildcare Park director), Jessica Carter (A Red Circle), Erica Williams (A Red Circle), Dr Jess Watson (Earthday365 executive director), St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones, Tyrean Lewis (Heru Urban Farming), Dr. Sam Page (St. Louis County Executive), and Jaqui Melton (BJC) helped celebrate Earth Day 2023 in Forest Park.

change since we already feel its effects. 2023 was the hottest year on record, with extreme weather across the country,” said Dr. Jess Watson, Earthday365 executive director. “The St. Louis Earth Day Festival is a time to highlight local solutions and success stories.”

Earthday365 is a nonprofit organization that touches more than one million individuals annually through one of the largest Earth Day celebrations in the country, in addition to award-winning

programs Recycling On the Go and Green Dining Alliance. Each year, the festival connects around 20,000 attendees with 200 local vendors who offer engaging activities, sustainable resources, and eco-friendly items in the Green Marketplace. The Main Stage is a centerpiece, as it will host the organization’s 3rd Annual Sustainability Awards with Mayor

n “I remember when I was nine, I said, ‘I am going to Africa.’ I didn’t have any negative hangups — I always knew I was African.”

- Safiyah Chauvin

At 7 p.m. Saturday, April 13, the African Dance community in St. Louis will honor Mama Safiyah at the 38th annual concert of BLACK DANCE USA: A Celebration in Movement, at COCA (Center of Creative Arts), and invites everyone to participate. Ahead of this concert, we sat down with Mama Safiyah to learn more about her remarkable journey and unwavering commitment and legacy.

Q. What inspired you to start the African Heritage Youth Organization in St. Louis?

A. Thanks to my parents Sylvester Chauvin III and Evelyn Chauvin, I grew up knowing that I was African. I remember when I was nine, I said, ‘I am going to Africa.’ I didn’t have any negative hangups — I always knew I was African. So, you have to tell the children the truth early on and teach them to be proud of their African heritage. That’s why I started the African Heritage Youth Organization, to teach children about their greatness through African dance, drum, song, poetry, history, leadership training and character development. I started the organization in 1973.

Q. How else did your family history influence your activism?

A. As a child, I was always going to meetings with my parents and organizing. I thought everyone’s family did that.

Photos courtesy of georgewallace.net

Comedy legends George Wallace and Marsha Warfield will perform for two nights on April 19 and April 20 at the Helium Comedy Club St. Louis in the Galleria.

Photo courtesy of Earthday365

Photo courtesy UAPO Safiyah Chauvin, who was instrumental in co-founding the UAPO, St. Louis African Arts Festival and International Folklore Federation, will be honored during BLACK DANCE USA celebration at 7 p.m. Saturday April 13 at the Center for Creative Arts, 6880 Washington Avenue in University City.

CONCERTS AND LIVE SHOWS

Tour de Dance 4/11/2024 5:00pm

A progressive dining and dance showcase event, featuring intimate dance vignettes from the 23/24 an incredibly immersive experience and the chance to see the Walls off Washington mural exhibit, curated by Kranzberg Arts Foundation.

Grand Center Arts District 3310 Samuel Shepard Dr St. Louis, MO

$80.00 - $100.00

Lydia Caesar 4/12/2024 7:30pm R&B Concert

STL Sites & Sounds

tributions West African women of the diaspora transported, preserved, and continue to activate from the Dahomey kingdom to Black Lives Matter. We name, praise and honor the major influence of these women.

Bar Italia Luna Room 13 Maryland Plaza St. Louis, MO $12.00 - $20.00

Fluid Perspectives: Pack Dance Performance (at CAM) 4/18/2024 7:30pm

This two-part dance performance explores the synchronicity between two exhibitions: Matisse and the Sea at the Saint Louis Art Museum (SLAM) and Paul Chan: Breathers at CAM,

Robert Irving creates assemblages made of layered images and sculptures composed of replicas of everyday objects. Mainly working in ceramics, Irving critically engages with the history of the medium and challenges constructs around identity and culture in the Western world.

African School No. 4 Tour 4/13/2024 10:00am

Participants will visit Faust Park, site of the recently renovated 1894 “African School No. 4,” one of the oldest surviving oneroom schoolhouses for African Americans in Missouri. Tim Emmons from Faust Park will lead the tour and Laumeier Curator, Dana Turkovic and

Spring into History

By the Missouri Historical Society

The Missouri History Museum’s north entrance facing Lindell Boulevard is now open, offering improved accessibility for visitors— and with two new exhibits opening in April and a full calendar of programs, there are more reasons than ever to visit!

A new exhibit, Eads Bridge at 150, is now open on the Missouri History Museum’s lower level. While most associate him only with the historic bridge that bears his name, James Eads spent his life solving complex engineering problems and defying expectations at every turn. This exhibit, which is presented by Bi-State Development, follows Eads’s fascinating story up, down, and even under the Mississippi River and beyond.

On Thursday, April 18 (5:00–8:00pm), Thursday Nights at the Museum will feature clips of the 2023 documentary Silent Fallout by director Hideaki Ito and a panel conversation with environmental historians, scientists, and individuals who truly drove grassroots change by mailing in their baby teeth to be studied more than 50 years ago. The St. Louis Baby Tooth Survey was a project launched by scientists and mothers to measure Strontium-90 in baby teeth in order to gauge the environmental consequences of nuclear testing. Join us for a special happy hour from 5:00pm to 6:30pm, where the STL Changemakers, a group of high school students from across the region, will present their own efforts to drive change in their communities. The Thursday Nights at the Museum series is presented by WashU.

One Friday and Saturday a month during the school year, the Museum celebrates education and family learning with History Exploration Days, offering engaging activities designed for families with students and learners from PreK through high school. The theme for April 12–13 is “Transportation.” From steamboats to trains, from automobiles to airplanes, discover why transportation and movement have been so important to St. Louis’s past and

African American History Initiative programming is presented by Wells Fargo.

future. Activities will include story time (in Spanish and American Sign Language on Saturday), workshops, crafts and sensory play, a scavenger hunt, and more.

The Storytelling in the Museum series takes place every Tuesday and Friday at 10:30am. The theme for April 16 and 19 is “Arab American Heritage Month,” and the theme for April 23 and 26 is “Spring.” Babies and toddlers ages 2 and younger and their caregivers are invited to come early on Tuesday mornings for Museum Babies, a 15-minute program with songs, board books, and movements. The theme for April is “Spring Buds.” On Saturday, April 20 (10:30–11:30am), assistant librarian Magdalene Linck will present “The Sounds of the Pike” at the Library & Research Center (225 S. Skinker Blvd.). Through the library’s collection of sheet music, she will explore the stories behind some of the composers, publishers, and musicians who were inspired by the Louisiana Purchase Exposition. This program, part of the Saturday Speaker series, is a ticketed event ($10); visit mohistory.org/events to register. Also on April 20 (1–3pm), the St. Louis African American History and Genealogy Society (STLAAHGS) will host a presentation by Descendants of Celia the Slave Heritage Foundation. Meetings

are held at the Museum and are open to the public and STLAAHGS members; no genealogical experience is necessary. Save the date for the May 18 meeting, “Myth or Reality? Ancient Links between Egypt and African American Genealogy.”

Finally, the Museum is gearing up for the opening weekend of the revitalized 1904 World’s Fair exhibit on April 27–28. The 1904 World’s Fair was a complex, fascinating event that continues to evoke a range of emotions. It was grand and shameful. It was full of fun and full of indignity. With multicultural exhibitions and architectural marvels that swept across nearly 1,200 acres of Forest Park, the 1904 World’s Fair was truly larger than life. Opening weekend will include car displays, marching bands, multicultural dance performances, a Confluence Chamber Orchestra concert featuring music performed at the Fair, photo opportunities, walking tours through Forest Park, vendors serving up everything from multicultural food to fairy floss and ice cream cones, and a family zone with art activities and storytelling. At 1:30pm and 3:30pm on both days, there will also be performances of The Unfair Fair: Prejudice on the Pike, a Mary Meachum Celebration production. Visit mohistory.org/events for more details about these exhibits, programs, and events.

Religion

‘Preacher’s Kid’ Bishop Leah Daughtry on why you should vote

By Rev. Dorothy S. Boulware

Bishop Leah Daughtry was born in Brooklyn, New York, into a family where church was their life, which is the definition of a preacher’s kid.

She began teaching Sunday school at 13 but carries none of the usual “PK” cynicism. “Usher, church administrator; being a preacher’s kid in a smaller church, you had to do all these things. We didn’t get to sit and wear pretty clothes,” she says.

But a PK component emerged when asked if she’s ever cleaned the church bathroom.

“Yes, Ma’am, the bathroom, the kitchen, sweep the floor, make the bulletins in the old days with the mimeograph machines. Buy the chicken, fry the chicken, serve the chicken, raise the money, count the money, take the money to the bank,” she said.

the Lord.

That fellowship describes its mandate as prophetic, political, pastoral, priestly, pedagogical, and programmatic.

And the congregation votes in large numbers. “We believe in the small church model, which is biblical,” she says. “It’s important that the shepherd be able to count the sheep. Know them by name. Know what their conditions are. There’s no need to go through lots of layers to get to the shepherd.”

n “We give them tools to make assessments for themselves. We don’t tell them who to vote for. They don’t have to vote, but they do have to register.”

-Bishop Leah Daughtry

Daughtry had no expectation of formal ministry until the call came in 2000. And she answered in a wholehearted way.

She is now the presiding prelate of that church, a Pentecostal Assembly founded in 1929 by her grandfather, Bishop Alonzo Daughtry. It’s formally called The Church on the Mount, but the national fellowship of churches is called The House of

The members of The House of the Lord are educated in the necessity of voting and required to register; they are enlightened about the issues. “We give them tools to make assessments for themselves. We don’t tell them who to vote for. They don’t have to vote, but they do have to register. When candidates come to speak, they know they’re addressing a church full of registered voters.”

So they immediately see the dichotomy in a platform that declares itself pro-life but has no care about the quality of the child’s life once it’s here. “Abundant life in all its phases. Food. Shelter. Water. Good schools. Safe Streets.”

The Bishop responds to the revisionist history being propagated. “The boldness of the

lie is quite stunning,” she says. “That people learned skills, had housing. What housing? Our responsibility is to challenge the lie. It’s just a lie.” And her tone softened as she recalled the family history that recorded her then fourth-gradeage grandmother being raped, and chosen as the bed partner for the slave master. He legally claimed the son as his own, but who would deny the violence perpetrated upon a child?

Bishop Daughtry says the same force wants to make decisions for us — basic life decisions and choices: “It is the same force that made decisions over our grandparents. People outside myself make decisions. It’s the same demonic force.”

“My first vote was for Jesse Jackson for President in 1984.

In my junior year of college, I interned for U.S. Rep., the Rev. Ed Townes of New York,” she says.

She says working on Capitol Hill for those four years gave her an on-ramp into the Washington political establishment through his values lens, which reflected her own values and showed that faith and politics could be intertwined without losing their parameters.

She also worked for Democratic National Committee Chair Ron Brown and had a hand in logistics for the 1992 convention. She was also an administrative assistant for Alexis Herman, the first African American to be Secretary of Labor.

Some people, especially Christians, say they’ll vote for the House and Senate, but not the top of the ticket.

“They should read Project 2025, it’s the Trump manifesto. It states what they plan to do if they get another go at the White House,” the Bishop says. “They’re going after everything they want with executive orders, all that don’t require congressional approval.”

She says they’re planning to deport Muslims, and half her family members are Muslims.

“I’m concerned. They’re going to overturn laws — replace them with new laws. The top of the ticket matters,” she says.

Not voting is a missed opportunity.

“And you end up with, ‘Oh my God, what did I do?’”

Rev. Dorothy S. Boulware is Word In Black religion writer and columnist

Bishop Leah Daughtry

INDIVIDUAL GIVING MANAGER

Forest Park Forever has a position open for an Individual Giving Manager. The position is responsible for cultivating and maintaining relationships with individual donors to secure financial support to advance the mission and objectives of Forest Park Forever. Please visit https://www. forestparkforever.org/jobs for full details and to apply online.

FAMILY SUPPORT SPECIALIST II

SR. STRATEGIC INVESTMENT RESEARCH SPECIALIST

Mercer Investments LLC (FT; St. Louis, MO

– Remote work may be permitted w/in commutable dist from worksite) Support investment clients globally by producing Mercer’s global intellectual capital, delivering high-qual global strategic rsch & intellectual capital that drives co’s investment consulting & Outsourced CIO biz’es. RQTS: Bach deg or foreign equiv in Finance, Econ, or rel + 5 yrs exp in position offered or rel. Must have 5 yrs exp w/: Strategic investment rsch exp in institutional investment mgmt or consulting industries, incl owning & delivering reports on capital mkts, asset allocation, investments & instruments & white papers on long-term investment themes; Performing investment analysis. Must have CFA designation. TRAVEL REQT: Less than 5% domestic travel for client mtgs or Global Investment Forums. APPLY: https://careers.marshmclennan.com

Urban Strategies, Inc is seeking applicants for the Family Support Specialist II position. To view the full job description for the Associate Project Manager, visit https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/ recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=a2c37eec-f84c-45d0-ac24-4ca5 7894e7dc&ccId=19000101_000001&jobId=535345& source=CC2&lang=en_US .

After entering our website, click on Who We Are and select Join Our Team to find career opportunities. USI is an Equal Opportunity employer, and this position is funded in whole or in part with Choice Neighborhood Initiative grant funds from the US Department of HUD.

JR81166 Purchasing/Receiving Assistant - McDonnell Genome Institute (MGI)

This position is responsible for receiving and/or purchasing storeroom supplies, including upkeep of inventory tracking system for assigned department. Asset tracking, review, and acceptance for assigned department. Assisting as needed for Preventative Maintenance visits to orchestrate between lab and vendor. The ideal candidate will meet the following required qualifications: High school diploma or equivalent high school certificate. One year of prior work experience. University required EH&S certificate of training specific to department (to be completed on the job). Depending upon department, possess or obtain prior to employment Missouri Class E driver’s license or equivalent.

JR81346 - LPN Opportunities

WashU is seeking LPNS with current or recent hospital or clinic experience to work at one of our many clinic locations. Preferences: Experience with Epic documentation and current/recent hospital or clinic experience.

Our openings include Orthopedic Surgery, Otolaryngology, Pediatrics, Urological Surgery and Gastroenterology.

DEVOIR SOFTWARE SOLUTIONS LLC JOB OPENINGS

Software Developers (multple opngs) (Job Code SD-23)

- Master’s deg in C.Sci, Info Systms/Technlgy, Engg/IT Mngmnt, Sci, any Engg or relatd flds reqd. DevOps Engineers (mltple opngs) (Job Code DVOP-23)

- Bach’s deg in C.Sci, Info Systms/Technlgy, Engg/IT Mngmnt, Sci, any Engg or relatd flds reqd. Software Engineers (mltple opngs) (Job Code SE-23)Master’s deg in C.Sci, Info Technlgy, Sci, Engg, or any fld reqd. For all jobs - Travel &/ or relocn to unantcptd locns in US reqd. Work loc: Chesterfield, MO & unantcptd locns in US. Apply - Attn. HR (job code), Devoir Software Solutions LLC, 700 Crown Industrial CT, #E, Chesterfield, MO 63005. EOE.

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

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

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

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

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

SEALED BIDS

Sealed Bids for Food Service Contract are being requested from Saving Our Children for the preparation & delivery of meals for 10 locations. Bids will be obtained, received & publicly opened on Friday

April 15, 2024 @ 11am @ 222 South Meramac Ave, Suite 201, Clayton, Mo, 63105. Contact Kwilliams@ savingourchildren.com For bid package & questions.What would be the cost for an ad like this.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

St. Louis Language Immersion School is accepting proposals for contracting out the Food Service Program with a Fixed Price contract for the 2024-2025 school year. A mandatory pre-proposal meeting will be held on Friday, March 15, 2024, at 9:00 am.

Proposals are due by April 15, 2024.

For questions and bid specifications, please contact St. Louis Language Immersion School at 1881 Pine Street, St. Louis, MO 63103, 314-533-0975.

St. Louis Language Immersion School reserves the right to reject any or all bids.

ADVERTISEMENT/ NOTICE

Bids for New Laboratory Campus Multi-Agency, Project No. O2301-01 will be received by McCownGordon Construction at the office of OA/FMDC, State of MO

UNTIL 2:00PM, May 8, 2024.

Project location is 135 N Chestnut St, Jefferson City, MO 65101. Bid Package 01 Scopes of work including: Earthwork, Site Utilities, Concrete, and Caissons. Bid Package information available at: https://app. buildingconnected.com/public/565cdb606895000f004164f2

MBE participation goal of 10% and WBE participation Goals of 10% and SDVE participation goal of 3% are included. OA/FMDC reserves the right to reject any and all bids and to waive all informalities in bids.

McCownGordon Construction is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District Requests for Quotes, Bids and Proposals are posted online for public download. Please navigate to www.msdprojectclear.org > Doing Business With Us > View Bid Opportunities

Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

www.stlamerican.com

SEARS LEHMANN JR. WILDLIFE RESERVE WOLF HABITAT FENCING MODIFICATIONS RFP 2024

The Saint Louis Zoo seeks bids from qualified firms to submit proposals. Bid documents are available as of 4/10/24 on the Saint Louis Zoo website: stlzoo.org/vendor.

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS

Sealed bids for the Creve Coeur Mill Road Resurfacing project, St. Louis County Project No. AR-1563, Federal Project No. STP-5526(646), will be received electronically thru the County’s Vendor Self Service portal at https://stlouiscountymovendors. munisselfservice.com/Vendors/ default.aspx, until 2:00 PM on May 8, 2024

Plans and specifications will be available on April 8, 2024 from the St. Louis County Web Site (www.stlouiscountymo.gov) or by contacting Cross Rhodes Print & Technologies, 2731 South Jefferson Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63118 (314) 678-0087.

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

INVITATION TO BID

PARIC Corporation - [the GC/CM] - is requesting bids for Delmar Devine: Phase-3 on select packages.

The project consists of a renovation of the historic St. Luke’s Episcopal Presbyterian Hospital Building located at 5535 Delmar Boulevard in St. Louis, MO. Existing Building will be converted into 81 residential apartments. Converting the Gymnasium Wing will also consist of offices and an event space.

Bids are being requested for the following:

• Elevators

• Design/Build Fire Protection

• Design/Build Electrical

Proposals are due on April 25th, 2024, at 12:00pm cst on the Bid Form Provided, by email to Mskalski@paric.com or bids@paric.com

A Pre-Bid Meeting and walk-through is scheduled for April 4th at 10:00am at 5535 Delmar Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63112.

Bidders are encouraged to confirm attendance if possible.

Diversity requirements for this project will comply with business participation as mandated under the St. Louis City Ordinance No. 70767 and 71094.

All questions regarding this Invitation to Bid shall be directed to: Michael Skalski –MSKALSKI@PARIC.COM 636-561-9740

SEALED BIDS

BEVERAGE SUPPLIER AND SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM RFP 2024

The Saint Louis Zoo seeks bids from qualified firms to submit proposals. Bid documents are available as of 4/10/24 on the Saint Louis Zoo website: stlzoo.org/vendor

Bids for Replace Roof, Education Building No. 14, Boonville Correctional Center, Project No. C2311-01 will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, May 2, 2024. For specific project information and ordering plans, go to: http:// oa.mo.gov/ facilities SEEKING QUALIFIED AND CERTIFIED

Bates Utility Company, a local contractor located at 841 Westwood Industrial Drive, Weldon Spring, MO 63304, is seeking qualified and certified MBE subcontractors/suppliers for work on the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District’s (MSD) Caulks Creek Forcemain Rehabilitation, (13917015.1) located north of Waterworks Road and West of Hog Hollow Road, in St. Louis County and the City of Maryland Heights, MO. Project details can be found on MSD’s website@ www.stlmsd.com.

Statements of Qualifications are due by 5:00 PM CT, Wednesday, May 1, 2024, through the Bid Express online portal at https://www.bidexpress. com/businesses/20618/ home?agency=true. RFQ may be obtained from the BPS website https://www.stlouis-mo. gov/government/departments/public-service/ bps-online-plan-room.cfm under OnLine Plan RoomPlan Room, or call Board of Public Service at 314589-6214. 25% MBE and 5% WBE participation goals.

PUBLIC NOTICE

Donald Maggi Inc. is accepting bids from Disadvantaged Business Enterprises for subcontracting opportunities on the Athletic Field Construction in Rolla MO

Project No.: RC000546

Bid Date and Time:

11:00 am, Thursday, April 18, 2024

Plans/Specification is available via email/ dropbox or www. adsplanroom.com

Contact Donald Maggi Inc. at 573-364-7733 or email maggiconst@gmail.com

Donald Maggi Inc.

INVITATION TO BID

The Twenty-Second Judicial Circuit is currently soliciting proposals for Garage Door and Moving Gate Service under the direction of the circuit court in the Carnahan Courthouse, 1114 Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63101; Civil Court Building, 10 N. Tucker Blvd., St. Louis, Missouri 63101; and Juvenile Family Courts Building, 920 N. Vandeventer, St. Louis, Missouri 63108;

The Request for Proposal is available on the Court’s website http://www. stlcitycircuitcourt. com, click on General Information, then Request for Proposals. Proposals must be received no later than 10 a.m. on May 21, 2024.

INVITATION TO BID

The Twenty-Second Judicial Circuit is currently soliciting proposals for Door Maintenance under the direction of the circuit court in the Carnahan Courthouse, 1114 Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63101; Civil Court Building, 10 N. Tucker Blvd., St. Louis, Missouri 63101; Juvenile Family Courts Building, 920 N. Vandeventer, St. Louis, Missouri 63108; Juvenile Detention Center, 3847 Enright Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63108; and Juvenile Annex, 3827 Enright Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63108.

The Request for Proposal is available on the Court’s website http://www. stlcitycircuitcourt.com, click on General Information, then Request for Proposals.

Proposals must be received no later than 10 a.m. on May 21, 2024

INVITATION TO BID

The Twenty-Second Judicial Circuit is currently soliciting proposals to replace the existing fencing at the Juvenile Annex at 3827 Enright Avenue, St. Louis, Missouri 63108 under the direction of the Circuit Court;

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS LULU HEIGHTS REDEVELOPMENT SERVICES

The Wellston Community Empowerment

Sealed bids are being requested from the Ferguson Florissant School District and will be received and publicly opened on Monday, April 22nd cst at 1:00pm @ 8855 Dunn Rd. Hazelwood, MO 63042. Bid specs must be obtained at http://new.fergflor. k12.mo.us/facilities-rfq. Contact Matthew Furfaro @ mfurfaro@fergflor.org for further information/ questions.

The Request for Proposal is available on the Court’s website http://www. stlcitycircuitcourt. com, click on General Information, then Request for Proposals.

Proposals must be received no later than 10 a.m. on May 14, 2024.

limitation, or discrimination.“We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.”

Call Angelita Houston at 314-289-5430 or email ahouston@stlamerican.com to place your ads today!

Earth Day

Continued from C1

Dance

Continued from C1

I always wanted to be a teacher too. I became a social studies teacher in both middle and high schools. After retiring, I continued teaching at the Muhammad Islamic Academy.

we organize, unite, and vote. We can’t just sit back. We must build on the gains of the Civil and Human Rights Movement.

The festival will also feature a Sustainable Fashion Show produced by Room Seven and emceed by Maxi Glamour. The showcase will be held at 1 p.m. Sunday April 21st the Main Stage–MC Tres, rapper, and co-owner of Hustle City will co-host with Maxi Glamour.

The runway will highlight a variety of unique and eco-friendly garments and accessories, many from vendors in the Festival’s BlackOwned Sustainable Fashion Marketplace such as Liberated Roots Collection, GemU Vintage, and Tribe228. In addition, models will wear One Planet Standard-certified shoes from Caleres. Every look is accentuated by the work of local black-owned makeup and hairstyling businesses Healthy Hair Solutions and The Whisper Style Team, with diverse models of all ages, genders, and body types, from professional models to community activists.

tion about the regional effects of climate change.

Festival goers are encouraged to participate in the Earth Day Challenge by making their visit as sustainable as possible–traveling to the festival by sustainable transportation, and bringing reusable shopping bags and drink containers. Or eating vegetarian or vegan food options.

“Fast fashion is a major driver of environmental destruction around the world, which is why we invited Room Seven to curate a show focusing on vintage, local, upcycled, and sustainably sourced clothing from talented local designers,” said Watson.

Other events include the World Bird Sanctuary’s wild bird shows, BWorks’ toddler bicycle racecourse, and yoga with The Collective STL. The Climate Action Zone will offer informa-

This year’s sponsors include Ripple Glass, Missouri American Water, City of St. Louis, Metro/ Bi-State Development, St. Louis-Jefferson Solid Waste Management District, MO DNR, Washington University in St. Louis, Sunset Hills Subaru, and Green2Go. For more information visit Earthday365

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

I remember going with Mom and Dad to protest and boycott because Black people couldn’t sit down and eat at Stix, Baer and Fuller, Famous-Barr and other businesses in Downtown. That’s where I got my early sense of dignity. You’re not supposed to be treated less than or as a marginalized person. My father was a leader in the National Alliance of Postal and Federal Employees and my mother was one of the founders of the St. Louis Committee on Africa. We were always a host family for African students. They look like us and we look like them. We are Africans born in America. I’ve always believed that. You have to get political. We’re suffering from the negative impacts of slavery.

After graduating from high school, I later went to SIU Carbondale to major in Sociology and Psychology for Secondary Education and started the campus’ first Black Student Union. Being interested in Africa, culture, and history,

Wallace

Continued from C1

know laughter is the best medicine in the world. That’s why I encourage people to overdose on laughter.”

He says that laughter and lies can be found in the most unlikely places. “You can go to a funeral and find laughter. You know why they are laughing? Because the people in the pews know they are up there lying,” Wallace said. “If you are going to a Black funeral, everybody is going to heaven. No matter what. You know damn well Uncle Bo ain’t going to heaven. He beat Aunt Ruby all his life, drank liquor all his life –and cussed the preacher out last Sunday. Look, somebody has to go to hell.

I had a friend who spent $3000 on a suit just to bury a loved one in. “She said, ‘I want people to remember him how he was’,” Wallace said. “I thought, ‘Well you ought to put some handcuffs on him then’.”

‘Clean Slate’

Wallace will be coming to the small screen when his show “Clean Slate” premieres later this year on Amazon’s Freevee

Q. What are some highlights from co-founding the UAPO, helping create the St. Louis African Arts Festival, and being an International Folklore Federation founding member.

A. Being mentored by world renowned Madame Katherine Dunham, choreographer, anthropologist, author and humanitarian activist, was a major highlight. I have also deeply cherished my work with young people and seeing them go on to start careers, become leaders, and start their own families. All of our work and steady organizing, that we still have to do, is important. As we strive to eliminate racial bias, we must follow the examples of our resilient and courageous ancestors; by remaining steadfast in our quest for equity, inclusion and total liberation and justice to all who suffer from the disparities and inequities of enslavement. That’s why it’s important

Network. The show was the last sitcom of late television icon Norman Lear to get the greenlight from a network.

The project started out with Wallace’s idea to do a reboot of Foxx’s “Sanford and Son.”

“I went to Norman Lear, because basically I wanted to hear the theme song,” Wallace said. “Lear said, ‘Let’s do a twist on it. Come back and tell me what you have.’”

A friend’s experience with the gender identity of their twin children gave Wallace the twist he needed. Wallace came up with the idea of a traditional Black father who lost touch with his son.

“My son was a good kid, but after his mom died at 17, he took off and moved to New York City to do his thing,” Wallace said. “Twenty-seven years later, I get an email. My son says, ‘Dad, I’m coming home, and I will be there tomorrow.’”

He gets a knock on the door and opens it to find the most beautiful woman he’s seen in his life.

“I say, ‘Avon Lady, I don’t have time for this, my son is on his way home’,” Wallace said. “And she says, ‘Dad, it’s me.’”

In addition to Wallace, the show stars Telma Hopkins and Laverne Cox.

The premise of the show is for Wallace’s

Q. What message do you have for all generations?

A. It’s imperative that we pass on the knowledge and pass on the greatness to our people. We’ve been taught through enslavement to be divisive and hateful and to harm each other. But we must act as a collective and love one another.

The BLACK DANCE - USA: A Celebration in Movement is a three-day dance festival of classes, drumming, vendors, food and a Concert to conclude the festivities, April 11 -13, at Better Family Life, Inc. 5415 Page Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63112. The Concert to honor Mama Safiyah and her 50+ years of activism and advocacy will take place at 7 p.m. Saturday at COCA (Center for Creative Arts), 6880 Washington Ave, University City, MO 63130. Admission is $20. To learn more and get tickets, visit: https://www. betterfamilylife.org/blackdance-usa-2024.

character to be educated to learn how to let people live their lives and be who they want to be.

“It’s all about love,” Wallace said. “We have to learn to educate each other and live with each other and love each other, no matter what.”

Wallace is overwhelmed when he thinks about living his dream,” he said. “I’ve done radio, television, film and everything that could be done.”

And while he feels a type of way about our airport, he refers to the Gateway Arch as a “big smile” and can’t wait for people to catch him and Warfield at the Helium next Friday and Saturday night.

“People in St. Louis are going to find out how to laugh and keep laughing no matter what,” said Wallace, who is also the author of a book entitled Laff it Off. “We only work for one hour a night. And we travel thousands of miles just to make people happy.”

George Wallace and Marsha Warfield will play Helium Comedy Club St. Louis in The Galleria on Friday, April 19 and Saturday, April 20 for two shows each night. For more information and showtimes, visit https:// st-louis.heliumcomedy. com/

Tishaura Jones and County Executive Dr. Sam Page, and features keynote speaker Heather Navarro, director of the Midwest Climate Collaborative at Washington University.

Photo courtesy of Earth365

Harriet Fitzpatrick (left) and her daughter Bianca Fitzpatrick were honored during the 2023 Earth Day celebration in Forest Park.

How to deal with debt consolidation

Do your homework

Bankrate.com

Debt consolidation involves combining multiple debts into a single account to reduce the number of bills you pay each month. Ideally, you also lower the overall interest rate and can ultimately pay off the debt more quickly.

When choosing the right lender for you and your needs, consider the type of loan, interest rates, fees and repayment options, among other features.

When it comes to consolidating debt, these are the most common types of loans you’ll encounter:

Many lenders offer personal loans designed to help you pay off debt faster and save on interest. These loans, often called debt consolidation loans, come with a fixed interest rate and repayment term.The idea is to pay off your outstanding debt with the loan and then make a single payment each month.

Also known as balance transfer credit cards, these cards offer an interest-free introductory period, typically ranging from 12 to 18 months. They are generally reserved for consumers with good or excellent credit. Only consider this option if you can pay off the new card during the introductory period. You’ll face typical credit card rates after.

You can convert up to 85% of your property’s equity into cash and use it to consolidate debt with a home equity loan. It acts as a second mortgage with a five-year repayment period of five to 30 years. The interest rate is also fixed and lower than most credit cards. The major drawback is that your

home acts as collateral. You could lose your property if you fall behind on the loan payments.

A HELOC is like a home equity loan — but you won’t receive the loan proceeds in a lump sum. They work more like a credit card. You can pull from funds as needed, up to a set limit, during the draw period. Interestonly payments are required during the draw period on most HELOCs. Once it ends, you’ll repay in monthly installments over a term of 10 to 20 years.

As with all financial products, your credit score is important in determining if you qualify. Pay attention to each lender’s credit score requirements. Lenders also set a maximum debt-to-income (DTI) ratio

Both factors will allow you to select lenders that work with borrowers with your credit profile. This could save you time. You won’t be applying to lenders who are highly unlikely to approve you.

Before choosing a debt consolidation lender, you must determine how much debt you must consolidate. Check your debt balances and request payoff amounts, which will be slightly higher than your current balance. Once you have this number for each debt you want to consolidate, you can look for a new lender.

Lenders cap the amount you can borrow. Make sure to check the max beforehand so you can consolidate all of your accounts with a single new one.

Take interest

Biden moves to limit credit card late fees

NNPA Newswire

In a move to confront racial disparities in credit terms, the Biden administration has unveiled a proposal to cap credit card late fees at $8, challenging the longstanding issue of “junk fees” that disproportionately affect people of color and minorities.

The plan aims not only to alleviate immediate financial burdens for consumers but also addresses the systemic inequities faced by those residing in predominantly Black or African American and Hispanic or Latino communities.

Recent studies have shed light on the stark differences in credit terms, revealing that cardholders in these minority-majority neighborhoods face lower credit limits and higher interest rates than their counterparts in predominantly white areas, even considering factors like credit scores and income.

One analysis of a diverse sample of cardholders uncovered troubling trends, including credit limits for those in majority Black and Hispanic zip codes, which were, on average, $3,412 and $4,285 lower, respectively. Also, interest rates for individuals in these zip codes were, on average, approximately 1.3 and 1.4 percentage points higher, respectively.

Beyond the immediate financial relief for consumers, the White House said the proposed regulation aligns with the broader mission of the Biden administration to dismantle systemic economic disparities. By reducing excessive fees, particularly those impacting people of color, the administration aims to create a more level playing field and alleviate the financial burdens marginalized communities face.

The disparities in credit terms impact the upfront costs of credit and have broader implications. Individuals in the majority Black and Hispanic zip codes often carry their credit card balances for extended periods, leading to higher overall costs. Lower credit limits can also result in elevated credit utilization rates, potentially contributing to lower credit scores.

Biden announced that his administration is forming a new “strike force” to combat illegal and unfair pricing across

various sectors, including groceries, prescription drugs, health care, housing, and financial services. Officials said the multifaceted approach underscores the administration’s commitment to dismantling systemic barriers and promoting financial inclusivity.

While the proposal is expected to save

Americans up to $10 billion annually, the White House said its potential impact on racial and economic disparities signifies a critical step towards building a more just and equitable financial system.

“Credit card companies collect billions of dollars in excessive late fees at the expense of economically vulnerable fam-

ilies every year,” Chuck Bell, advocacy program director at Consumer Reports, said in a statement. “It’s simply unfair to impose a steep late fee penalty that far exceeds the credit card company’s costs, especially when someone is just a few hours or a couple of days late making their payment.”

Metro Transit still offering $5,000 signing bonuses

Hiring event on April 13

St. Louis American

Time is running out if you want to qualify for a $5,000 signing bonus to join the Metro Transit team as a mechanic or transit operator, especially a Metro Call-A-Ride operator. The special $5,000 signing bonus that was established last year, has been extended through Saturday, April 13.

That’s because the monthly Metro Transit hiring event will take place

this Saturday, April 13, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the North County Transit Center in Ferguson, Missouri. Experienced mechanics and individuals interested in becoming Metro Call-A-Ride operators, MetroBus operators and MetroLink operators will be interviewed at this event.

Qualified attendees will leave the event Saturday with on-the-spot job offers.

Metro is committed to improving Call-A-Ride service for customers with disabilities and hiring more Call-A-Ride operators is necessary to reach that goal.

The North County Transit Center is located at 3140 Pershall Road in North St. Louis County, just off of Interstate 270 between West Florissant and New Halls

Ferry Road. Benefits

• Work for a company that strives to make a positive impact in the region.

• Earn competitive wages.

• Gym discounts with Club Fitness and OneLife Fitness at Ballpark Village.

• 24-hour access to our 8 onsite gyms.

• Wellness program that provides free health screenings.

• Discounted cell phone service.

• Free MetroLink and MetroBus access.

• Medical, dental, vision coverage.

• Your birthday is a floating holiday.

• Uniform allowance.

• Employee assistance program.

• Bi-State Development is an eligible employer the for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness program.

Interested individuals are encouraged to learn more about the Metro Transit operator and mechanic positions online and are encouraged to apply before Saturday’s hiring event to speed up the on-site application process on Saturday. Visit www.metrostlouis.org/careers/ to apply online.

Bi-State Development operates the Metro Transit system in the City of St. Louis and in St. Louis County in Missouri and in St. Clair County in Illinois.

Shared prosperity: A key to health and well-being across communities

By Orvin T. Kimbrough, chairman and CEO, Midwest BankCentre

“How do we leverage our balance sheet in a way that it actually accrues to the benefit of the community and still meets our business needs?” This was the critical question that leadership at BJC Healthcare asked in 2021 when evaluating how to address health disparities in their service area, leading to their depository relationship with Midwest BankCentre.

Recently, at the national conference for the Society of Public Health Educators held in downtown St. Louis, I had the privilege to share insights on a panel exploring the vital collaboration between financial institutions and public health organizations. The focus was on leveraging these partnerships to positively impact social determinants to health. My message, consistent with my long-standing belief, centered on financial well-being through Shared Prosperity as a crucial factor in improving health outcomes for communities adversely affected by their environment.

Financial Well-Being: The Foundation of Human Capital

The concept of financial well-being has evolved for me over time. I view it as the culmination of three elements: human capital—our formal and informal education; social capital—the depth, breadth, and quality of our networks or relationships; and financial capital—our earnings, ownership, or borrowing capacity to build wealth. Financial well-being is about bringing stability and peace of mind into our homes. Shared Prosperity takes this concept further by ensuring that our investments equip people from all walks of life, representing the diversity of our region, to secure and advance in well-paying jobs without exclusion.

Shared Prosperity also emphasizes providing broader access to business opportunities, encouraging a more diverse group of owners and fostering ownership across various sectors. It’s about seeing the value in investing in the region’s infrastructure, making cities like St. Louis not just livable but desirable places for jobs and investment. Prioritizing racially

and economically diverse neighborhoods is essential for creating sustainable communities that contribute to a stronger and more inclusive St. Louis.

The Race to the Top: A Collective Effort

The path to Shared Prosperity involves uniting the region in a collective effort to excel. Every individual and organization contributes according to their strengths. A critical aspect of this journey is our continued investment in the foundational elements of prosperous communities: cultural institutions, human services, arts, parks, and educational facilities. By channeling resources through tax dollars, private philanthropy, and business investments into these areas, we not only sustain but enrich the cultural and educational landscape that forms the backbone of our region.

However, there is a compelling need to broaden our investment philosophy, particularly towards transformative projects like the Brickline Greenway orchestrated by Great Rivers Greenway (GRG). It

exemplifies a trifecta for the region as a beacon of Shared Prosperity. This project is transformative at its core, aiming to mitigate housing disparities, catalyze asset growth, and bolster population retention. By facilitating job creation and enhancing connectivity, the Brickline Greenway stands as a testament to how intentional investments in our physical spaces can spur community-wide upliftment. In parts of our region, like North St. Louis, economic initiatives like this can significantly enhance the financial well-being of the community.

Moreover, attracting companies specializing in areas such as advanced manufacturing, technology, financial services and beyond and creating a welcoming environment for startups are pivotal steps towards economic growth. These efforts, combined with strategies to grow the population with a diversified skill set, are essential for addressing challenges related to funding amenities and providing a workforce for new and existing businesses. Organizations like the International Institute play a significant role in helping

St. Louis attract a fair share of the growing Hispanic and other diverse markets, showcasing the importance of inclusivity in population growth strategies.

Earning Comfortably: The Role of Business Productivity

As we strive to enhance business productivity and population growth, ensuring that individuals earn a comfortable wage is imperative. A reasonable wage supports consumer spending on homes, cars, and other essentials, which, in turn, drives economic growth. Given that consumer spending accounts for approximately 70% of the U.S. GDP, the ability of individuals to earn sufficiently is a cornerstone of economic prosperity.

Shared Prosperity is not just an economic imperative; it’s a public health necessity. By focusing on financial well-being, we can address many social determinants to health, improving life outcomes across communities irrespective of race. This approach requires a collective effort, a commitment to equity, and an understanding of the interconnectedness of our economic systems and public health.

In conclusion, the path to Shared Prosperity and its significance in uplifting an entire region transcends racial and economic boundaries. It’s about creating a sustainable ecosystem where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. By investing in people, infrastructure, and institutions, and by fostering an environment that encourages economic diversity and innovation, we can achieve a healthier, more prosperous future for all. The discussions at the national conference in St. Louis serve as a reminder of the powerful impact financial institutions and public health organizations can have when they work together towards Shared Prosperity. It’s a goal that demands our collective action and unwavering dedication.

It Matters Where You Bank.

Photo courtesy of Midwest BankCentre

Orvin T. Kimbrough is chairman and CEO of Midwest BankCentre.

How to keep the cost of car insurance down

Car insurance is one of the costliest purchases that consumers hope to never use. While it›s always important to buy the right coverage, it costs a lot more to insure a brand-new car than a five-, seven-, or nine-year-old model you are replacing. Here are five helpful tips on how to keep your premiums in line without taking on unnecessary risks.

Do an Annual Rate Check

It’s easy to compare multiple insurers online, at sites such as Answer Financial, Insure.com, Insweb.com, and NetQuote. You usually won’t get an immediate quote online, but you will get email messages from agents looking for your business. Consider forming a relationship with an independent agent, who will check rates for you at a range of carriers.

Pick a Top-Rated Insurer

Saving money isn›t simply a matter of finding the lowest premium. Some insurers have lower premiums, but end up costing you more in the end by lowballing loss estimates, hassling the repair shop to cut corners, and forcing you to pay extra for original-equipment replacement parts. They might even unfairly jack up your premiums after an accident.

In a survey of 64,872

ConsumerReports.org subscribers who filed a claim between 2011 and 2014, 88% of them were highly satisfied with the handling of their claims. Among the highest-rated groups were USAA, Amica, and NJM, with overall satisfaction scores of 90 or higher.

Set the Right Deductible

A higher deductible reduces your premium because you pay more out of pocket if you have a claim. Hiking your

deductible from $200 to $500 can cut your premium on collision by 15 to 30 percent. Go to $1,000 and you could save 40%. If you have a good driving record and haven’t had an at-fault accident in years, if ever, opting for a higher deductible on collision might be a good bet. Just make sure you can afford to pay that cost if your luck runs out.

Take Advantage of Discounts

Car insurers offer a whole range of modest but worthwhile discounts that are essentially based on a low-risk lifestyle. Here are some to ask your insurer about if they don’t mention them to you first:

• Students with good grades.

• New drivers who have taken a driver-training course.

• Older drivers who have taken a refresher course.

• Any driver who takes a defen-

sive-driving course.

• Members of affinity groups, such as college alumni and certain occupations and professions.

Multiple-Policy Holders

Insurers also offer fairly hefty auto discounts if you also buy your homeowners, renters, or life-insurance policy from them. But be sure you check out total costs both ways: premiums from different insurers compared with single-insurer packages.

Report Reduced Mileage

A major cost component in auto insurance is miles driven per year. The average is about 12,000. But if you’re driving a lot less than usual for some reason, like a job change or retirement, let your insurer know. Your reduced driving could cut 5 to 10 percent off your premiums.

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Interest rates

Even if a lender has a low starting rate, it will be reserved for those with excellent credit. Instead, check the maximum annual percentage rate (APR) a lender charges to be sure a loan will still be affordable even if you don’t qualify for the lowest rates.

For a sense of what interest rate you might get, make sure you prequalify with multiple lenders you think will best suit your needs. Prequalifying will allow you to see your eligibility without damaging your credit.

Fees

Almost every lender will charge a fee to borrow. These often include late fees, origination fees or prepayment penalties. However, some lenders do not charge any fees. If you have good to excellent credit, you may be able to qualify with one of these.