April 27th, 2017 Edition

t. LouiS AmericAn

Parson Jr. makes history

Florissant

swears in first-ever black

City Council

By Chris King Of The St. Louis American

When

n “When I saw the incumbent ran unopposed, at that time I really made up my mind to run.”

– Robert Parson Jr.

member organizations like the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund. Parson lived in Ward 8 in

Ferguson in April 2013, when longtime incumbent council member Mark Schmidt was reelected with less than 500 votes without any opposition.

“When I saw the incumbent ran unopposed, at that time I really made up my mind to run,” Parson told The American. An attorney in private practice who is now 46, Parson had never run for public office before. He previously had been elected board president for a condominium owners

See PARSON, A7

People’s opens new child and youth health facility

therapist

Learning to fly in Jennings

By Sandra Jordan Of The St. Louis American

“Today may be the best day in my career, for real,” said Dwayne Butler, president and CEO of Betty Jean Kerr People’s Health Centers.

That was on Tuesday, April 25, the first day People’s delivered client and patient services at its new, $6 million, 18,000 sq. ft. health facility for children and youth ages three to 17. The People’s Center for Children’s Health is located at 5647 Delmar Blvd., a couple of doors away from People’s main health center.

“If we profess that behavioral health is important, then we have to invest,” Butler said. It is a bright, inviting structure that took a year to build. With medical and

n “We try to get through the fog of poverty to learn how to help our children.” – Dwayne Butler

behavioral health workers housed together to treat children and adolescents, the center integrates behavioral and physical health. Moreover, it reduces the stigma for parents who are hesitant to bring their children into a mental health facility.

Services in the new facility include evaluation, group therapy, psychoscocial

‘The Science Behind Aviation’ exposes students to career options – and design

By

stepped to the microphone, she was being watched by a room full of her peers at Jennings High School, a panel of professional aviators and engineers, student groups from a few other states linked by videoconferencing, and anyone tuned to HEC-TV.

HEC-TV, short for Higher Education Channel, was broadcasting a live segment called “The Science Behind Aviation” at the Gore Community Education Center in the Jennings School District on Thursday, April 20. But McCrary was more interested in practical employment options than the intricacies of science. She directed her question to

U.S. Air Force Major Mallory Nordquist, who is based at Scott Air Force Base and flies C-5 transport planes. Nordquist was the only female on an allwhite panel of guests recruited by the show’s producers. McCrary, like every student in attendance, is black. She asked Nordquist what employment options female aviators have in

Jennings Superintendent Art McCoy helped students Marttan Brazie, Alexis McCrary and Darron Deal make a paper airplane during a live HECTV taping of “The Science Behind Aviation” at the Gore Community Education Center on Thursday, April 20.

Robert Parson Jr. was sworn in as Ward 8 councilman on the Florissant City Council by Judge Dan Boyle on Monday, April 24, becoming the irst African American ever to serve on the council.

Clinical

Halisi Mohammad worked with Arnold Robinson, 8, a student at Grannemann Elementary School at People’s Center for Children’s Health on Wednesday, April 26. The boy visited the newly opened center at 5647 Delmar Blvd. with his mother Arteria Robinson and stepdad Oscar Brookin.

Photo by Wiley Price

Chris King Of The St. Louis American

When Aaliyah McCrary

Photo by Wiley Price

Photo by Wiley Price

Jesse Williams’ wife blindsided by divorce

This week, news leaked that actor Jesse Williams filed for divorce after five years of marriage amid rumors he’d been cheating with actress Minka Kelly.

Insiders claim Jesse’s wife, Lee Williams, had no idea he wanted out.

“None of us saw this coming,” a source close to the couple told PEOPLE. “Jesse lived for her.”

Jesse, 35, wed Aryn in 2012 after five years of dating and is father to their two young children: daughter Sadie Maceo, who was born in 2015.

“If you knew the couple they were back in Brooklyn, when he had dreads and a backpack and she was grinding doing real estate, you wouldn’t believe it.”

TMZ obtained the divorce

petition filed by the “Grey’s Anatomy” star on April 11, and he is requesting joint physical and legal custody of their children.

The documents do not list a date of separation. As for spousal support, TMZ says Jesse checked the box asking the court to deny her spousal support. The celebrity news and gossip site say they are working it out in mediation instead.

Aretha reheats beef with Dionne Warwick

Houston’s godmother at Houston’s funeral five years ago.

“She blatantly lied on me ... fully well knowing what she was doing,” Franklin told The Associated Press in a phone interview.

Franklin saw Warwick last week at the Tribeca Film Festival’s premiere of mentor Clive Davis’ documentary, “Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives,” and she also performed.

Franklin said Warwick tried to talk to her backstage.

“She said, ‘Give me a hug.’ I said, ‘Oh hell no. You couldn’t be serious,’” Franklin said.

Aretha Franklin is still bothered by a situation Dionne Warwick at Whitney Houston’s funeral back in 2012. Warwick –who officiated the services – introduced Aretha as her godmother, but then had to awkwardly announce that Aretha wasn’t there.

Franklin accused Warwick of making up a story that she was Whitney

When asked if she wanted an apology from Warwick, she said: “I don’t care about her apology, at this point it isn’t about an apology, it’s about libel.”

She added: “We’ve never been friends and I don’t think that Dionne has ever liked me.”

When asked for comment, Warwick’s representative Angelo Ellerbee said: “She will not dignify a response to the statement made by Aretha Franklin.”

Steve Harvey’s ex continues to claim fraud

After being simmered down the past couple

of years, Steve Harvey’s second wife Mary has rehashed claims against her ex and his new wife Marjorie.

In an interview posted to YouTube, Mary Harvey claims that Steve was unfair – even fraudulent – as it relates to their divorce settlement and custody battle. An excerpt from the interview reads as follows: “I want justice. That’s something I’ve never had. My boys back. I don’t want to be perceived as someone who is cruel and evil and vindictive and bitter. That’s not who I am. I want people to know the entire story, not just bits and pieces that were bought and paid for. I want what I worked 16 years to have. I want retirement. I want benefits from our company that I deserved, I earned. I worked for. I didn’t jump on the back of Steve’s life when the cart started rolling. I was there pushing that cart and sometimes when the wheels fell off of the cart, I put them back on. That’s what I did. I earned everything that was taken from me by Steve and Marjorie, forging my name and signing off on things even before she had the right to even be called Harvey. I want everything back the two of them conspired to take.”

Sources: The Associated Press, TMZ.com, People.com, YouTube.com

Advocates sound alarm on 2020 Census

Undercounted communities will not be equitably served with government resources

By Honora Montano

Of New American Media

With the 2020 Census three years out, civil rights groups and census experts are sounding the alarm that pending actions by the Trump administration and Congress could severely hamper an accurate count of all communities.

“Congress’ failure over the past few years to pay for rigorous 2020 Census planning, and now the Trump Administration’s insufficient budget request for 2018, will strike at the heart of operations specifically designed to make the census better in historically undercounted communities,” said Terri Ann Lowenthal, former staff director with the House Subcommittee on Census and Population. She spoke during a national press call hosted by the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights. The call was moderated by Wade Henderson, president and CEO of Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights.

“The decennial census is by far the most important and critical tool in our country to ensure that diverse communities are equitably served with government resources and that the American people are adequately represented at all levels of government,” said Henderson. “The census is required by the U.S. Constitution, and policymakers

are responsible for making sure the job gets done right. All of us must insist that they do that because there are no do-overs.”

Currently the Census Bureau is being funded at 2016 levels, as Congress has not approved final spending bills for 2017. The bureau has requested a 25 percent “ramp up” for preparation activities. But Trump’s 2018 budget proposal recommends keeping funding levels where they are currently, $1.5 billion.

Census advocates say this is a crucial time for laying the groundwork and are calling for Congress to reject the administration’s budget proposal in favor of one that covers all preparation activities.

A ‘major civil rights issue’

Recently, the U.S. Government Accountability office deemed the 2020 Census a “high risk federal program,” in part because the U.S. Census Bureau is planning to utilize several never-before used strategies – such as collecting responses over the internet – but may not have the time and resources to adequately develop and test them. Budget limitations have already hindered major preparations, including the cancellation of tests of new methods in Puerto Rico and on two American Indian reservations, and

resulted in mailed tests rather than electronic or in-person ones, as well as delayed community outreach and advertising campaigns.

Advocates say current funding shortfalls will result in many people – particularly black, Latino and rural households, and families with young children – being missed by the count. Arturo Vargas is the executive director of the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO)

Educational Fund. He calls the underfunding of the census a major civil rights issue for Latinos and other communities of color.

“A successful 2020 Census is not possible if Latinos are not accurately counted,” Vargas said. Millions of Latinos, the second largest ethnic group in the U.S., were missed in the 2010 census, including 400,000 children under four, according to Vargas. For each uncounted

A 2010 Census enumerator speaks to a resident standing in a doorway.

Photo: U.S. Census Bureau

person, state governments and communities lose thousands of federal aid dollars, which go to anti-poverty programs, education, infrastructure, emergency services, healthcare and other programs. An undercount can also trigger changes in political representation – from redrawn district lines, to fewer seats in local, state and federal offices, often diminishing the power of communities of color.

Advocates say that new cost-saving strategies, like collecting responses over the internet rather than paper forms, require investments on the front end. Delayed preparations cannot be made up later. Surveys administered online may also be hampered by the “digital divide” if adequate field tests are not taken.

Lack of access to broadband and the internet may make it “more challenging to [reach] those historically left out of the census in the first place,” Vargas warns.

The ‘first high tech census’

The first “high tech” census also opens the door to cyber security concerns, which have been exacerbated of late by evidence of foreign attacks on the 2016 presidential elections. Such concerns could make Americans even more hesitant to participate.

Lowenthal says she and other advocates must be prepared for a “wild card” event, such as Trump

publically questioning the importance of the census via social media.

“One errant tweet could shake public confidence and in the process depress participation and undermine faith in the results, conceivably all the way to the halls of Congress,” Lowenthal said. Census advocates are eyeing several other threats to the decennial count and its yearly counterpart, the American Community Survey. The ACS is sent yearly to about 1 in 38 households to collect demographic data on everything from employment and home-ownership to educational attainment.

Republicans in Congress are pushing to make participation in the ACS voluntary, which could severely damage the data, says John C. Yang, president and executive director of the non-profit advocacy group Asian Americans Advancing Justice.

“The ACS updates the Census throughout the decade. As such it is required by law and must remain so to provide the vital info needed from our communities,” Yang said, emphasizing that the ACS is the only source for detailed data of ethnic subgroups, such as Vietnamese of Chinese descent.

Census advocates are also on high alert because an unsigned leaked executive order, titled “Protecting American Workers from Immigrant Labor,” referenced a directive to the Census Bureau to collect data on immigration status. Advocates are alarmed by the intentions behind this unsigned order.

“Latinos and other immigrant families are keenly aware of heightened immigrant enforcement actions in their communities, and this may increase distrust in contact with public agencies including the Census Bureau,” Vargas said.

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Editorial /CommEntary

Towards truly representative democracy in St. Louis County

History was made on Monday night when Robert Parson Jr. was sworn onto the Florissant City Council, representing Ward 9. For the first time, Florissant – which had more than 50,000 residents at the 2010 census, nearly 27 percent of them black –has an African-American representative on the city’s legislative body.

In the April 4 municipal general election, Parson beat a 21-year incumbent by 500 votes, or 17 percent, which is a blowout. That shows Parson was right when he said voters in the ward were ready for a change, that he was wellinformed enough about local politics to be aware of this situation, and that he worked hard to win the votes of his neighbors. In an interview with The American, Parson struck a sensible balance between taking pride in breaking a racial barrier – “it felt as if the whole black community won the election” – and moving on with the people’s business in a diverse community where clearly many non-black people voted for him: “I don’t want to particularly dwell on race. People in the ward got to know me and elected me.”

Parson was so well prepared that he almost certainly would have won this election under Florissant’s old districting. But he and future black candidates in Florissant (especially in Wards 8 and 9) got a boost from the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, which worked with the Florissant City Council for more than a year on a redistricting plan that was passed on May 23, 2016. “They redrew the lines for districts to remedy the violation of the one-person, one-vote rule, which is a constitutional requirement that had to be addressed under the constitution,” Victorien Wu, an LDF attorney who worked on the redistricting issue, told The American. “And in the process of the negotiation, the city was able to increase the percentage of African Americans in two

As I See It - A Forum for Community Issues

We need better-trained police who can relate to people

By Alderman John Collins-Muhammad Guest columnist

After serving 23 years with the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, Chief Sam Dotson officially resigned as the top cop on Wednesday, April 19. I truly believe that his resignation is long overdue and necessary for advancement and improvement.

Our city needs a chief that every neighborhood can count on to represent and serve them effectively.

resources in North St. Louis are spent on equipment. We don’t need more cameras – we need our resources being spent on officers who can better train officers to patrol our community.

wards, in Ward 8 and Ward 9.”

The LDF was not working on behalf of Parson, who had not filed for office at that time, and did not support his campaign. Rather, the organization worked nobly on behalf of all black residents in Florissant and anyone else in the city who values truly representative democracy. We applaud and thank LDF, its president and director-counsel Sherrilyn Ifill, and all staff attorneys who worked on the issue. The work is only beginning in bringing truly representative democracy to St. Louis County municipalities. Hazelwood, University City and St. Ann were sent letters about redistricting from the LDF, just like Florissant, but have not been as willing to negotiate, Wu said, and have not passed redistricting measures. No African American has ever served on the city councils of Hazelwood, which was 30 percent black in the 2010 census, or St. Ann, which was 22 percent black in the 2010 census. In University City, which was 41 percent black in the 2010 census, only two of the six members of the council are African-American. We urge the councils in these

municipalities to revisit the demands made by the LDF and redraw their districts in a more constitutional and representative manner.

We also encourage African Americans all over St. Louis County to consider Parson’s initiative and success and to get involved in the local political process. We saw too well from the Ferguson crisis that it does matter who serves on elected bodies in our municipalities. As humble as these positions may appear, they make crucial decisions that impact public safety and social justice. St. Louis County needs new black leaders willing to do the tedious work it takes to get elected in lowenergy, low-turnout municipal elections. “Hopefully there will be more African-American representation in our city in the future,” Parson said. We hope the same for other municipalities throughout the county. Everyone, not only African Americans, will benefit, because greater diversity and inclusion adds opportunity for the exploration and incubation of new ideas for meeting challenges. The time to start preparing to win the next election is now.

Republicans try to gut health care again

House Republicans are apparently ready for yet another attempt to snatch health insurance away from constituents who need it. Someone should remind Speaker Paul Ryan of a saying often attributed to his legendary predecessor, Sam Rayburn: “There’s no education in the second kick of the mule.”

Having failed miserably to win passage of an abomination of a bill – the American Health Care Act – Ryan and his minions are back with something even worse. A draft framework being circulated this week would pretend to keep the parts of Obamacare that people like, but allow the states to take these benefits away. I realize there is great pressure to follow through on the GOP promise to “repeal and replace” the Affordable Care Act. And I realize that President Trump, nearing the 100-day mark, sorely needs a legislative victory to tweet about.

Republicans don’t talk much about the practical reason for moving urgently on health care, which is to set the stage for so-called tax reform: They want to take money now used to subsidize health care for low-income Americans and give it to the wealthy in the form of big tax cuts.

I’m sure the crowds at GOP town halls will be understanding. Just be sure to check attendees at the door for tar and feathers. The new proposal –

brokered by Rep. Tom MacArthur, R-N.J., of the moderate Tuesday Group and Rep. Mark Meadows, R-N.C., of the far-right Freedom Caucus – is like a parody, as if life-or-death access to health care were fodder for a “Saturday Night Live” sketch. Nominally, the “MacArthur Amendment” would retain the Essential Health Benefits standard imposed by the ACA, which requires insurance policies to cover eventualities such as hospitalization, maternity and emergency care – basically, all the things you’d ever need health insurance for. The amendment would also appear to maintain the ACA’s guarantees that everyone can buy health insurance, including those who have pre-existing conditions, and that parents can keep adult children on their policies until age 26. But it’s an illusion. After specifying that these popular provisions will stay, the amendment then gives states the right to snatch them away. States would be able to obtain waivers exempting them from the Essential Health Benefits standards. They would also be able to obtain waivers from the pre-existing conditions requirement by creating a “high-risk pool” to

provide coverage for those who are unwell.

There would no longer be a prohibition, however, against charging “high-risk” individuals more – so much more, in fact, that they would potentially be priced out of the market. We would go back to the pre-ACA situation in which serious illness could mean losing a home or filing for bankruptcy.

This may satisfy GOP ideological imperatives but it is atrocious policy, even if you put aside considerations such as compassion and community.

Unchanged from last month’s failed bill are provisions that would strip massive amounts of money out of Medicaid, by far the nation’s biggest source of payment for nursing home care. So Republicans might not want to show their faces anywhere near retirement communities.

The Affordable Care Act changed the way most people in this country think about health care. It did not, however, change the thinking of many House Republicans, who continue to believe individuals should be held financially liable for a genetic predisposition toward diabetes or a random cellular mutation that leads to cancer.

Another abject failure to repeal the ACA would be a terrible political outcome for Republicans. But far worse, looking ahead to the 2018 midterms, would be for Trump to sign this latest monstrosity into law.

We need leadership from the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department who will invest in problem-solving policing, the types of solutions that start with a more diverse leadership structure, implementation of the best practices from trainings to employment, and more sincere community collaborations and partnerships that start with police actually living in the community.

If I go Downtown or to the Central West End in St. Louis, I see law enforcement visible on almost every corner, with more officers walking or riding bicycles and engaging the community, but we don’t get the same service in North City. Our Public Safety

Our neighborhoods don’t have faith in the police department, because under Dotson there was neglect in struggling neighborhoods north of Delmar Boulevard. Different areas need different approaches to policing the community.

Guest Columnist John CollinsMuhammad

Dotson and the majority of the police department leadership’s strategies did not curtail the rising violent crime statistics in my area, which is a clear sign of the long-standing issues residents confront. Even the strategies for high-theft areas south of Delmar have not worked for residents.

As far as my community is directly concerned, we don’t need more ineffective police. O’Fallon Park needs

Letters to the editor

Voter ID law is not common sense

As a Missouri resident who believes in voting rights and access to all citizens, I voted against Amendment 6 in November and question Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft’s language of “common sense voter ID law.” If common sense means that democracy should only be available to those who can afford it, then this language is accurate.

This amendment is meant to disregard members of our community who are less likely to have a state ID, such as homeless citizens and the nearly 30 percent of St. Louis city residents living in poverty. These individuals, who are disenfranchised in every other area of their life, are now also marginalized in their ability to make their voice heard in the democratic process.

Studies show that voter fraud has not been a problem in our state; therefore, the $1.4 million needed to finance this legislation is funding a problem that does not exist. Rather, this money should be used to engage more citizens in the voting process, not discourage them. In the 2016 November election, less than 67 percent of Missouri residents casted a vote. I cringe at the thought of my tax dollars going to programs that ignore the voice of my neighbors.

Anna Hall, St. Louis

Climate

change

is a civil rights issue

Climate change is a public health and a civil rights issue. In communities across the country, African Americans and low-income families are often hit the hardest by climate change and carbon pollution. African-American kids like those here locally in St. Louis Public Schools are four times more likely to be hospitalized for asthma attacks than other groups. We’ve seen more African-American families going to emergency rooms and doctors’ offices for respiratory illnesses.

The link between health and climate change should no longer be ignored. AfricanAmerican men, women and children deserve better

better-trained police who can relate to people. Penrose needs better-trained police who can relate to people. Walnut Park, Hamilton Heights and College Hill all need bettertrained police who can relate to people.

Whoever the new chief of police might be and whether the chief comes from inside the department or as the result of a national search, this city needs a comprehensive plan that comes from the community first. A plan that includes a civilian oversight board with subpoena and discipline powers. A plan with leadership that looks and lives like the community. And a plan that restores the shattered relationship between law enforcement and the communities they are sworn to serve and protect. I would like to thank Chief Dotson for offering his resignation, because it’s a step in the right direction, and I hope that both the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department and the community gets the best police chief so we can become a model city for effective public safety. John Collins-Muhammad is the alderman of the 21st Ward.

public health safeguards and need to be protected from dangerous pollution by an EPA administrator who is guided by science and takes the threat of climate change very seriously. Making sure that students go to school each day in a healthy environment and have access to health services is key in making sure our students are able to unlock their full potential.

Susan Jones, St. Louis

Racially discriminatory intent

The NAACP applauds the decision by Judge Gonzales Ramos holding - once again - that Texas’s current photo identification law, SB 14, was enacted with racially discriminatory intent in violation of the United States Constitution.

With the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit already having affirmed Judge Gonzales Ramos’ prior ruling that SB 14 discriminates against African-American

and Latino voters in violation of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, this decision hopefully represents the final nail in the coffin for this despicable, disenfranchising law.

The Texas NAACP State Conference originally filed litigation challenging SB 14 in 2013.

The U.S. Department of Justice’s decision to withdraw its longstanding allegation that SB 14 was enacted with racially discriminatory intent serves only to demonstrate the willingness of some public officials to play politics with the most sacred and foundational right in our democracy - the right to vote. But the NAACP and its partners will oppose most strenuously any effort to make voting more difficult for our fellow citizens, no matter what their color or political persuasion. We congratulate our Texas State Conference and its litigation partners for their steadfast and immovable advocacy.

Cornell William Brooks, president and CEO NAACP

Commentary

Columnist Eugene Robinson

Photo by Wiley Price

Robert Parson Jr. with Judge Dan Boyle and his new colleagues on the Florissant City Council – Councilmen Jeff Caputa, Timothy Jones and Gerard Henke – after they were sworn in on Monday, April 24. Parson is the first African American ever to serve on the council.

Biking with the super

Gateway and Vashon High School students Carosa Johnson and Fatima Ndon rode their “like new” bikes with St. Louis Public Schools Superintendent Kelvin Adams from the home of Karen Kalish, founder and executive director of Home Works, on Saturday, April 15,. The bike donation came about after Kalish found out that most of the students did not have bikes. Students had a police escort all the way to their schools.

Nominations open for Excellence in Poverty Journalism Award

ArchCity Defenders seeks nominations for its first Excellence in Poverty Journalism Award to honor journalists committed to reporting on poverty in St. Louis that highlights individual experiences within a systemic framework. “We want to recognize journalists who write about homelessness, the criminal legal system, evictions, poverty and racism, which are the issues that impact our clients every day,” said Thomas B. Harvey, executive director of ArchCity Defenders. “We are especially interested in those journalists who deepen our understanding of the intersection of race, class, and poverty.”

The community is invited to nominate journalists who have published a written article between January 1, 2016 to April 1, 2017 about an issue that creates or exacerbates poverty. The article must be no longer than 4,000 words. Nominations will be evaluated for their emphasis on centering individual experiences with poverty and racism within a systemic, historical analysis. The nomination period is open through May 8. A three-person panel will judge nominations.

To nominate, send the journalist’s name, article headline, news outlet, and a link to the article if it is available online to Communications@archcitydefenders.org or tweet at @ArchCityDefense with #communityjournalism. Further information about the award and nomination criteria can be found at www.archcitydefenders.org.

Humanizing the homeless

By Jamala Rogers

I was totally disgusted when I read what happened to the residents of the New Life Evangelistic Center (NLEC) when the city finally forced the closing of the homeless shelter. New Life opened its doors in 1976 and carried out its mission until the downtown site didn’t fit neatly into the city’s gentrification plan. Residents were re-traumatized with the forced removal and displacement by the city’s actions. Even though the embittered battle went on for several years, there clearly was no transition plan in place for NLEC’s residents. It made me wonder about the validity of any planning by the city to address homelessness.

A recent ruling by a judge allowed the city to finally close the doors and evict homeless people. How sick does that sound – evicting the homeless? About 100 people were divided between a city recreation center and a city warehouse where the Forestry Division houses its equipment and chemicals. The rec center was temporarily closed to neighborhood youth to house the homeless.

Like most components of poverty, homelessness has been unduly racialized. The Public Policy Research Center at the University of Missouri – St. Louis released the Missouri Statewide Homelessness Study Report last year. It cited that African Americans are more likely to be homeless than any other race. Blacks account for 60-95 percent of the residents of various shelters, even though we’re about half of the general population. The consequences of these stats filter down to the most vulnerable: our children. Youth between the ages of 6-17 years old represent a big chunk of those in shelters.

St. Louis Public Schools has experience a dramatic rise in homeless students. The housing situation doesn’t stay outside the classroom; it affects the learning environment. According to school records, students without a permanent place to lay their heads every night represents a quarter of the district’s total enrollment. When SLPS last reported the number of homeless students in the district at the end of the 2015-2016 school year, there were 5,451 students in the city district designated as homeless. That staggering number has tripled in the past five years.

Remember the plan created by St. Louis and St. Louis County to “end chronic homelessness”? It was a 10-year plan that would bring the issue to its knees in 2015. While I’ve reviewed the mid-term progress report, I’ve seen no evaluation of the 10 years and what it did or not produce.

We need to get our homeless problem under control because President Trump has an austerity plan for working people that will throw more people out of jobs and out of housing. St. Louis numbers are nowhere near cities like New York City (62,000 homeless). This doesn’t mean manipulating the Point in Time (PIT) count like Utah apparently did when it touted reducing its homelessness by a whopping 90 percent. The PIT count is the number of people without shelter on a given night in January that must be reported to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The count is connected to receiving federal funds for homeless services.

Perhaps if we transcend the race of most of the homeless and focus instead on the children and their families, we may get closer to the roots of the issue. We may get to humanizing the lives behind the statistics. We may get to realistic ways to provide affordable housing for those most in need.

Jamala Rogers

Photo by Wiley Price

JENNINGS

Continued from A1

the Air Force, and Nordquist listed a number of flight and support positions.

McCrary, though only a freshman at Jennings High School, has already started to make plans for life after high school: She will follow a favorite aunt into the U.S. Army. But watching a woman talk about flying planes huge enough to carry tanks – Nordquist said when she approaches the cockpit of a C-5, she thinks, “I’m about to fly this building” – made McCrary rethink her plans.

“It was pretty informative and educational,” McCrary said after the taping wrapped. “It made me think about going into the Air Force instead of the Army.”

According to Superintendent Art McCoy, the district invited two groups of students to participate in “The Science Behind Aviation” – students from the district’s robotics team and students from its Jennings Educational Training Alternative School.

Herman Harris, the

PEOPLE’S

Continued from A1

rehabilitation, creative arts therapy, and physical health metabolic screenings for blood pressure, glucose and other wellness measures.

One of the best things about the building is that it is new space – created specifically for children and their families by the professionals who serve them. Young people and their loved ones appreciate the fresh space – particularly when the former building at Prince Hall was dark, and ceiling tiles were water-damaged, broken or missing, one family said.

“It’s a step up from Prince Hall and the last building,” Angel Hampton said. “The only thing that was colorful at Prince Hall was when they

district’s alternative school administrator, said he wanted some of his students to attend the taping to expose them to “something different.” It’s one of many strategies he employs for drop-out prevention.

“Many of our students are struggling to find themselves and figure out what to do when they leave high school,” Harris said. “Exposure to information and opportunities is everything.”

The students were exposed to a man who followed his dreams and learned to fly stunts. Patrick McAlee described going to air shows in St. Louis as a small boy and deciding – at age 8 – that he wanted to be, of all things, a stunt pilot when he grew up. He started making and saving money at the tender age of 13 and used that money to buy his first plane in 2008.

“It takes a lot of practice and physical endurance, but it’s a spiritual thing too,” McAlee said of flying stunts. “You become one with your airplane.”

McAlee also offered the youths a valuable lesson: Just because you follow your dream and it comes true doesn’t mean it will pay the bills. He

would hang up art work from the students. The walls were energy-draining.”

Her mother, Regena King, is a family support worker at the children’s center.

“It feels open,” Hampton said. “I like the colors, the flooring – the shapes; I like how they have the paintings on the wall. It feels comfortable.”

And the clinical area will soon have more art on the walls by St. Louis artist Cbabi Bayok.

At the new children’s center, there are big windows that let in lots of sunshine and natural light, and the colors are bright and happy.

“Many of the children we serve have never had a new pair of shoes,” Butler said. “When we see this building, I have to remind everyone that when you get to the first floor, you think you’re in

continues to fly daring stunts for spiritual thrills, but to earn a living he flies steady and straight, with as few thrills as possible, for a commercial airline.

“Commercial aviation brings home the paycheck,” McAlee said. “You do what you need to do so you can do what you want to do.”

The students from the robotics team had plenty of inside information to soak up from the experts.

Robert Dowgwillo, an expert in aerodynamics who works with Boeing Research and Technology, said designing

Chesterfield or Ladue, and our children deserve it.”

The patient population comes from children and youth throughout the community, including insured and uninsured families.

The center has intake and assessment, team case management and a community meeting space on the first floor.

Behavioral health treatment, telehealth and physical health metabolic screenings are on the second floor. Butler said the offices and spaces on the third floor will probably be used for private adolescent health.

Teresa Brandon, executive vice president of Clinical Operations for Amanda Luckett Murphy Hopewell (the youth behavioral health component of People’s), runs programs in the new facility. It is designed to maximize the experience and to minimize interruptions

an airplane – even the F-15, a deadly supersonic plane designed to win fire fights and master the sky – comes down to “a packaging problem.” The plane’s mission dictates what needs to go on the plane, and it’s an engineer’s problem to package it all so that the plane will fly and execute its mission.

Steve Dobronski, a veteran of the U.S. Air Force who flew the F-15 in combat missions, described how the pilot’s physical training and flight suit are both designed to keep blood in the pilot’s head while the centrifugal force of supersonic flight pulls the blood down to

of therapy and treatment.

Community support workers whose jobs require them to go in and out throughout the day are located on the first floor so as not to disturb the treatment underway upstairs.

“Our second floor primarily is for provider clinic services,” Brandon said. “Then, in the middle we have the clinic and a second waiting area.”

The mini waiting areas across from the reception station have glass open walls to provide family-friendly privacy and, if needed, staff monitoring of children who are not there for treatment.

“In our community, if a mother has five kids and one with behavioral health issues, all five kids come,” Butler said. “In Chesterfield, four kids stay at home with the nanny. We had to design a building for all five kids.”

Antoine Ross, a senior at Jennings High School who participates in the school’s robotics team, won the airplane distance toss when HEC-TV did a live taping of “The Science Behind Aviation” at the Gore Community Education Center on Thursday, April 20. He said from the expert panel he learned design tips that will help Jennings’ robotics team with the Boeing Engineering Challenge.

his or her feet. If not corrected, this would cause the pilot to pass out in mid-air.

“Your suit puffs up, which pushes the blood back up,” Dobronski said. “You also tighten your legs and abs to keep the blood in your head. That’s one reason we do so much strength training.”

From Ken Blackburn, who spoke via video from Florida, where he conducts aeronautical research for the Air Force, the students learned something adults don’t usually teach at school: how to make a paper airplane. Blackburn has held the world record for

“The one area that we are excited about that we’ve never had before is our two-way mirror screen area, where we do parent-child interaction therapy,” Brandon said. It is Butler’s favorite room as well.

The two-way mirror allows staff in the room next door to observe parent-child or siblingto-sibling interactions while the staff communicates with the parent in real time.

“We can put ear pieces in the parents and we can help the parent deal with the children and de-escalate and teach them,” Butler said. “Our parents can’t come every week, so we will teach you how to deal with things in the household. We try to get through the fog of poverty to learn how to help our children.”

The day The American visited, there was a rolling cart with sandbox of small toys in the top and other toys on another cart. Staff can change such items as needed, depending on the age of the children and other dynamics.

A dream come true

This center started six years ago as a dinnertime conversation Butler had with medical and behavioral health team members about what they would want in a facility designed for urban behavioral

keeping a paper airplane aloft for the longest time (27.6 seconds is his best; the current record holder, Takuo Toda of Hiroshima, Japan, has him beat by 1.6 seconds).

All of the students made paper airplanes, following Blackburn’s directions, and then competed in a throw. HEC-TV Live host Tim Gore measured the students’ throws by distance, not time aloft, and declared a winner in Antoine Ross, a senior at Jennings High School who participates in the school’s robotics team.

Ross has plans for after high school – he will attend Millikin University in Decatur, Illinois to study information systems and play football – but he still took home some immediate practical applications. His robotics team is designing a glider for the Boeing Engineering Challenge, and the student learned some design ideas from the professionals.

“It was a learning experience,” Ross said. “It will help us make our plane for the Boeing contest.”

HEC-TV programs are archived at http://www.hectv. org.

health. These are the people who work with children and see additional needs that families may have.

“We were dreaming, and who would have thought this would happen?” Butler said. “I think we have done the best we could do for our babies.”

He said Amanda Luckett Murphy helped him to understand behavioral health, and he talked with U.S. Rep. Wm. Lacy Clay (D-St. Louis), who offered to help. “First, he gave me the confidence to keep moving, and he made some phone calls to key people and we got financing,” Butler said of Clay.

The People’s Center for Children’s Health was made possible through funds from the City of St. Louis Community Development Administration, David Steward, the Steward Family Foundation, Centene Corporation, Home State Health and Betty Jean Kerr People’s Health Centers.

The late Ida Woolfolk was a People’s board member and advocate who helped to raise funds for the new building. “Ida is the real ‘wind beneath my wings,’” Butler said. The first floor community room will be named in her honor.

For more information, visit www.phcenters.org or call 314531-1770.

Photo by Wiley Price

PARSON

Continued from A1 association and was serving on Florissant’s Environmental Quality Commission as an appointee of then-Mayor Robert G. Lowery. But his name had never been on a public ballot. He made that decision in the spring of 2013, looking forward to the municipal general election four years in the future. Parson’s name was indeed on the ballot for Ward 8 Florissant council member on April 4, 2017, when he handed the incumbent, Mark Schmidt, a sound whipping, 514 votes (58 percent) to 364 votes (41 percent). He was the first African American ever voted onto the Florissant City Council At the 2010 census, Florissant had more than 50,000 residents, nearly 27 percent of them black.

“Being the city’s first black city councilman is a privilege that I am grateful to have,” Parson said. “When I won the election and began to talk with people in the community regarding the results, it felt as if the whole black community won the election.”

Of course, between Parson’s decision to run in 2013 and his decisive campaign victory in 2017, Ferguson erupted after the police shooting of Michael Brown Jr. As Ferguson stayed in the national spotlight for months, national media and civil rights attention spread from Ferguson proper to the jigsaw puzzle of St. Louis County municipalities and police departments, especially the North County municipalities with sizable African-American populations but little or no black political representation.

Advised by local advocates, including the Missouri State Conference of the NAACP and the Mound City Bar Association, the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund (LDF) began to investigate voting districts for city councils in the county

and how they impact AfricanAmerican voters’ equal access to the political process. On April 15, 2015, just a week after another municipal general election in St. Louis County, Sherrilyn Ifill, president and director-counsel of the LDF, and three other LDF attorneys sent a letter to the mayor, clerk and all nine council members in Florissant. They argued that the city’s voting districts violated the one-person, onevote rule proscribed by the U.S.

Constitution and concentrated black voters in a way that diluted black voting strength.

“We thought that these council seats are an important role because the councils oversee many aspects of governance, including policing and public safety issues,” Victorien Wu, a signatory on the LDF letter to Florissant who worked on the redistricting issue, told The American. “We were hopeful that black candidates could

get elected if there were a higher concentration of black voters, and that black council members would be able to give voice to the concerns of their constituents.”

They succeeded. After more than a year of advocacy by the LDF, the Florissant City Council voted to approve a redistricting plan on May 23, 2016.

“They redrew the lines for districts to remedy the violation of the one-person,

one-vote rule, which is a constitutional requirement that had to be addressed under the constitution,” Wu told The American. “And in the process of the negotiation, the city was able to increase the percentage of African Americans in two wards, in Ward 8 and Ward 9, and to strengthen the position of black voters to give them a genuine opportunity to elect the candidates of their choice.”

The next municipal election was April 4, 2017, and for the

first time, Florissant elected a black council member – in one of those two wards, Ward 8. The LDF does not support political candidates and did not support Parson. Parson sees how the organization’s work benefitted him and future black candidates, though he also sees in his 150-vote margin over the incumbent an election he would have won without redistricting.

“I believe their work and the redistricting contributed some,” Parson told The American. “I was able to get more votes in a new area of Ward 8 where a new subdivision was added, but a lot of people of all races in the area were ready for change. What LDF did was useful, but I believe I could have won without redistricting.”

Wu hopes that black residents of Ward 9 in Ferguson are looking toward the next council election, when their voting strength will be improved. He said the LDF also is monitoring voting districts elsewhere in St. Louis County. Hazelwood, University City and St. Ann were hit with letters about redistricting from the LDF, just like Florissant, but have not been as willing to negotiate, Wu said, and have not passed redistricting measures.

No African American has ever served on the city councils of Hazelwood, which was 30 percent black in the 2010 census, or St. Ann, which was 22 percent black in the 2010 census. In University City, which was 41 percent black in the 2010 census, only two of the six members of the council are African-American.

As for Parson, his concerns are directed toward Florissant and his ward.

“While I am proud to be the first African-American elected to the council, I do believe my being elected shows that I am qualified,” he said. “I don’t want to particularly dwell on race. People in the ward got to know me and elected me. And hopefully there will be more African-American representation in our city in the future.”

Robert Parson Jr. celebrated with family and he was sworn in as Ward 8 councilman on the Florissant City Council on Monday, April 24. He is the irst African American ever to serve on the council. Left to right with Parson: Robert Parson (father), Marie Parson (mother), Tanya Parson (wife), Cheyenne Parson (daughter), Mikayla Parson (daughter) and, in front, Jordan Parson (son).

Photo by Wiley Price

Community wants input, and national search, in replacing police chief

On Mayor Lyda Krewson’s first full day in office on April 19, she announced that Police Chief Sam Dotson, who had led the police department since 2012, was retiring immediately from the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department.

She also said that she will begin immediately to find a new police chief and director of Public Safety.

After the initial shock settled, community organizations began organizing and sending out statements on what they would like to see in the search for police chief and Public Safety director. Several community leaders are urging a national search.

In an April 25 interview with The St. Louis American Krewson said, “We are going to do a search. That means it could be local, it could be national. It will be both, but one doesn’t preclude the other.”

On Monday, she met with the Personnel director to talk about the search process, she said.

“Certainly that is evolving as we speak, and it probably will include some professional organizations and associations

that will likely have a broader reach,” she said, regarding hiring a professional search team.

One of the first groups to publicly chime into the conversation was Forward Through Ferguson, an organization charged with implementing the calls to action in the Ferguson Commission’s report.

Forward Through Ferguson

On April 19, Forward Through Ferguson co-chairs Rebeccah Bennet and Zack Boyers sent an open letter to Krewson, laying out some specific actions they would like to see Krewson take in the search process. They believe the search should have a national scope, seek input from the community through public forums, and include community members and leaders in resume reviews and candidate interviews.

“There is no way to achieve racial equity without the community being centered in decision making,” Bennet told

The American “This is a tremendous opportunity to see this as a platform for repairing that which is broken between our citizenry and our officers. If we don’t start here, we further compound the distrust and the disconnection between the two groups who absolutely need each other – our protectors and our citizenry. We want to see our mayor enter into the space of reconciliation and repair.”

Bennet said she did not hear back from Krewson’s administration regarding the letter, but Krewson told The American that she agreed with Bennet’s assessment.

“Yes, the search process is an opportunity to demonstrate that we care about what

the community thinks,” Krewson said. When asked if she envisioned including community forums in the search process, Krewson said that it was “likely.”

Krewson said the Ethical Society of Police had reached out to her about hosting community forums. When asked if she will be collaborating with the black police union on those forums or attending them, she said that she didn’t know because she didn’t know what the union had in mind.

Forward Through Ferguson’s open letter also stated that the candidates’ interviews should include relevant calls to action from the Ferguson Commission report. The questions should include appropriate use of force, the role of the civil review board, anti-bias training, officer wellbeing and holistic community policing.

Bennet said she believes that the mayor should include the Coalition Against Police Crimes and Repression (CAPCR) among the groups that she seeks to include in the search process. “They have been on the front lines in terms of fighting for effective policing for a long time,” Bennet said.

CAPCR

CAPCR has been spearheading the effort among community groups to present a united statement regarding what they want to see in the search process. They expect to have something to the mayor by Monday, said John Chasnoff, co-chair of CAPCR. Chasnoff said that both the Public Safety director and chief are “equally important” in broadening the city’s perspective on public safety –looking beyond just arresting people and incarceration.

“Jobs, education and healthcare

are all part of the factors that people feel safe,” Chasnoff said. “We are hoping to find leadership in the Public Safety director and police chief that understands this. If you are looking at the larger picture of public safety, the role of police chief looks differently.”

The two positions could be seen as “problem solvers,” who see problems and are able to collaborate with social services and other government agencies to prevent crime – not just crime fighters, he said.

CAPCR suggests that Krewson establish a diverse committee that reaches out to the community about what they would like in a chief and Public Safety director. Then the committee would assist Krewson’s administration in writing job descriptions for both roles. When asked about these suggestions, Krewson said, “That’s certainly something to be considered. We will have community input, and we will have professional input and I don’t know if there will be a hybrid committee or not.”

CAPCR strongly urges a national search. Chasnoff said that it wasn’t until the city got local control of the police department that the mayor was authorized to look outside the city for a police chief. “Opening it up to an outsider will allow us to move in new directions more easily,” Chasnoff said. “This is our first time under the new state statute to do this kind of outreach.”

Police unions

Jeff Roorda, business manager of the St. Louis Police Officers Association, said the union was not sure that a national search is legal. While the state statute regarding local control of the city’s police department has changed, the City Charter provision remains in effect, Roorda said.

Koran Addo, Krewson’s spokesman, told The American that a national search was legal under the City Charter. Roorda said that union wants input in the search process. He believes representatives from both his union and the Ethical Society should sit on the search committee.

Heather Taylor, president of the Ethical Society of Police (which represents about 200 majority-black city officers,) said they are working to set up a community forum in the next couple weeks. “We are trying to be transparent; that’s what we believe should happen,” Taylor said. “We support a national search.”

Taylor also hopes that a union representative is included in the decision-making process for police chief.

Bruce Franks Jr.

State Rep. Bruce Franks Jr., a Ferguson activist who now represents the 78th House District, emphasized the importance of choosing the right Public Safety director –not just the chief.

“We have to have a Public Safety director who will hold the police chief accountable,” Franks said. “We haven’t had that.”

Supreme Court affirms city’s minimum wage hike

On Tuesday, April 25, the Missouri Supreme Court affirmed the City of St. Louis’ 2015 ordinance establishing a minimum wage of $10 per hour this year and $11 per hour beginning in 2018. The city’s ordinance, originally enacted in 2015, was blocked the same year by a Circuit Court judge who said it violated state law. The city appealed that decision to the Missouri Supreme Court. In February, the Court ruled unanimously that the state’s minimum wage does not preempt the city from establishing a higher minimum wage. On Tuesday, the Missouri Supreme Court declined to reconsider its February ruling, leaving the circuit court’s 2015 injunction as the only barrier. The city expects the Circuit Court will lift that injunction within the next week. By law, the city’s minimum wage ordinance will take effect immediately after. To help answer questions, business owners and lowwage workers may have, the city has established an email address minimumwage@ stlouis-mo.gov. Questions or concerns also may be made through the Citizens’ Service Bureau, by calling (314) 6224800, or tweeting @stlcsb. Noncompliance with the city’s established ordinance is subject to prosecution in Municipal Court, and also may be subject to revocation of business licenses and occupancy permits.

Photo by Lawrence Bryant

Police accountability groups, as well as the black police association, are calling for community input and a national search regarding a replacement for St. Louis Police Chief Sam Dotson, seen hear listening to a community grievance during an October 2014 protest. Dotson resigned on April 19, Mayor Lyda Krewson’s first full day in office.

Cardinal Ritter College Prep will host a free selfdefense class for young girls in the community 1-3 p.m. Sunday, April 30 in the school gymnasium, 702 N. Spring Ave. The class will be taught by Ricky Muhammad and Cardinal Ritter English teacher Laura Dobbs-Terry. The event is free and open to the public for women and girls ages 10 and up and will have a limit of up to 200 girls. All participants must register and will be required to sign a waiver before entering the class

“I am very disturbed by the current disappearances and violent acts against our young black girls and women,” said Celeste McCormickMuhammad, an English teacher at the school. “My sister, Cheri Renee Johnson, was violently murdered here in St. Louis in 1987. These classes are conducted in memory of my sister and other young girls and women who have disappeared and/or died violently in the hands of killers.” For more information and to register, visit https://goo.gl/ forms/M3yWOiprIybNZ7FH3.

To Mayor Krewson: on choosing a new police chief

By Rebeccah Bennet and Zack Boyers Guest columnists

Mayor Krewson, The retirement of Police Chief Sam Dotson represents a new day for public safety in St. Louis.

While your choice of the new chief will have a major impact on the City of St. Louis and on your success as mayor, we believe that the process by which you select the new chief will communicate clearly to the city and the region what kind of administration you will have, the culture you hope to develop in City Hall, and what kind of leader you aim to be. Thus, as you begin this hiring process, we call on you to listen not only to your cabinet and advisors, but also to the people you will serve these next four years.

• Include community members and leaders in resume reviews and candidate interviews;

• Incorporate the relevant calls to action from the Ferguson Commission Report as part of the interview process;

We encourage you to develop a search process that will:

• Have a national scope, inviting applications from across the country;

• Seek input from the grassroots organizing community and other community groups on the characteristics they hope to see in the next chief;

• Seek input from community members through public forums that are accessible to communities across the entire city;

• Seek to find a candidate who understands and is committed to implementing holistic community policing in the City of St. Louis. When we agreed to become co-chairs of Forward Through Ferguson, we understood that in this role it was our responsibility to hold the accountable bodies named in the Ferguson Commission Report accountable. We know it is our responsibility to ensure that the lessons and community trust held in that report are applied for the betterment of the region.

The hiring of a new police chief is a clear opportunity to apply the principles and insights from that report. We send this letter to challenge you to develop a process in the spirit of radical listening – a critical component of racial equity – that characterized the commission, and to offer you our support as you begin this search. Please do not hesitate to contact us to discuss how we might help.

Rebeccah Bennet and Zack Boyers are co-chairs of

Clay nominates 13 students to military service academies

American staff

U.S. Rep. Wm. Lacy Clay (D-St. Louis) has nominated 13 remarkable young people from across the 1st Congressional District to attend one of our nation’s military service academies. These highly competitive nominations are awarded annually after a rigorous review process.

Clay nominated for the U.S. Naval Academy: Dylan Crawford of Hazelwood West High School, Brendan Farmer of North County Christian School, Austin LaRue of Gateway Science Academy,

David Le of Cleveland Junior Naval R.O.T.C. Academy and Darric Woodley of McCluer High School.

Clay nominated for the U.S. Military Academy: Caleb Berry of Tower Grove Christian Academy, Alana Chandler of Lutheran North High School, Laryn Grant of McCluer North High School and Jennifer Thomas of McKinley Classical Leadership Academy.

Clay nominated four students for more than one academy: Carson Berry of Saint Louis University High School (U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Military Academy),

Josiah Goosen of Veritas Press Scholars Academy (U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Naval Academy), Robert Shields Jr. of Missouri Military Academy (U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Military Academy) and Katherine Stujenske of Stanford Online High School (U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy).

“Each year, the exceptional young people whom I am honored to nominate to our nation’s military service academies restore my faith that America’s future is in good hands,” Clay told the nominees during a ceremony at

American staff

Mary Ann Lee, noted philanthropist and wife of the late E. Desmond (Des) Lee, passed away Monday, April 17 in her beloved hometown of St. Louis. She was 90.

“My mother had a tremendous impact on this community and set a wonderful example for us all. In addition to a very big heart, she had a great memory for names and faces that added to her natural grace and charm,” said Lee’s son, Andrew C. Taylor, executive chairman of Enterprise Holdings.

“But my family and I will remember her most as a wonderfully devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She was fondly known as ‘Mimi’ by her grandchildren and is remembered for picking them up at school, taking them to the zoo, going to their sporting events and brightening family vacations.”

Her own offspring were not the only children she nurtured.

“Mary Ann Lee was a generous friend who committed her time and resources to promote the growth and development of children, teens and young

adults,” said Flint W. Fowler, president of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis.

“Her passion for and love of St Louis is evident in the many causes she supported. Mary Ann took a personal interest in the people and institutions she cared about. Her impact on our region will be celebrated for many, many years.”

“Mary Ann Taylor Lee was a remarkably generous woman. Most people don’t know the magnitude of her giving. She had a soft spot for children and organizations that helped children. She loved Forest Park and was a major benefactor over many years. She often gave quietly without the need for recognition,” said Kathy Osborn, executive director of the Regional Business Council.

“She enjoyed and supported all our major cultural organization and believed they should be available for all to enjoy.

Above all, she loved her children, Andy and Jo Ann, and adored her grandchildren. Family was very important to her.”

Born May 24, 1926, in St. Louis, Lee was one of two children born to Leonard and Mary MacCarthy. She grew up in Clayton and attended John Burroughs School and Clayton High School. In 1945, Lee married Jack C. Taylor, who 12 years later founded Executive Leasing, now Enterprise Holdings. Their marriage ended in 1977, but right up until Taylor’s death in July 2016, the two shared a continuing devotion to their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She married Des Lee, co-founder of Lee-Rowan

the University of Missouri – St. Louis.

“You have already demonstrated the highest standards of academic achievement, athletic ability, personal character and community service. And now, you are ready to step forward and join in a long tradition of volunteers who stood tall in the defense of freedom. Generations of brave men and women have gone before you. I know that you will honor their legacy with your service and I am immensely proud of all of you.”

Manufacturing Co., in 1978, and went on to build a strong reputation for philanthropy and civic involvement. She served on the boards of John Burroughs School, Opera Theatre of St. Louis, Springboard to Learning, the Sheldon Theatre and Forest Park Forever. Together, the Lees made generous philanthropic gifts to a wide range of causes, gifting more than $70 million over the years. Beneficiaries of their generosity included the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, Herbert Hoover Boys & Girls Club, United Way of Greater St. Louis, Saint Louis Science Center, St. Louis Zoo, Missouri Botanical Garden, University of Missouri-St. Louis, Washington University in St. Louis, Webster University, Missouri Historical Society, The Magic House, Variety the Children’s Charity of St. Louis, St. Louis Art Museum and Ranken Technical College. For her dedication to the St. Louis community, in 2003 Lee received the St. Louis Woman of Achievement for Philanthropy Award. She also received the Woman of the Year Award from Variety the Children’s Charity of St. Louis, the Hiram W. Leffingwell Award from Forest Park Forever and, with her husband, the NAACP Humanitarian Award. Des Lee passed away in January 2010. Mary Ann Lee is survived by her son, Andrew C. (Barbara) Taylor and her daughter, Jo Ann Taylor Kindle (Tom Caruso); her granddaughters Christine Taylor (Lee) Broughton, Patricia Taylor (Andy Magee), Alison Kindle (Kyle) Hogan and Carolyn Kindle (Adam) Betz, all of St. Louis, and Kelly Taylor of Delray, Fla.; and her greatgranddaughters, Grace and Amelia Broughton and Kylie and Kenzie Hogan. The family requests that memorial donations be made to Forest Park Forever, 5595 Grand Drive, St. Louis, MO 63112, or to John Burroughs School, 755 South Price Road, St. Louis, MO 63124. To view a tribute to Mary Ann Lee’s life and send a message of sympathy to her family, visit MaryAnn LeeRemembered.com.

U.S. Rep. Wm. Lacy Clay’s 2017 U.S. service academy nominees

Mary Ann Lee

Rebeccah Bennet Zack Boyers

Middle School Principal of the Year

Kashina Bell, principal of Parkway Northeast Middle School, was named St. Louis Middle School Principal of the Year by St. Louis Association of Secondary School Principals. The association surprised Bell with the award April 5 at a special assembly with the entire student body in attendance. Shewill be formally recognized in front of her peers at the association spring awards banquet on Wednesday, April 26. Bell has been the principal at Parkway Northeast Middle since 2013.

Setting Missouri Republicans straight on MLK and abortion

By Allison Dreith Guest columnist

Missouri Republicans are no strangers to inaccurate and offensive language, especially when it comes to abortion. Just like former U.S. Rep. Todd Akin’s now infamous line, “If it’s a legitimate rape, the female body has ways to try to shut that whole thing down,” conservatives in the Missouri legislature have made similar horrifying statements.

State Senators Bob Onder (R-Lake St. Louis) and Wayne Wallingford (R-Cape Girardeau) recently gained national attention when they spoke in opposition to a proposed tax increase benefitting the St. Louis Zoo, because they oppose St. Louis’ Board Bill 203, the reproductive nondiscrimination ordinance, which was signed into law in February. Onder, whose bill targeting abortion clinics had been opposed through filibuster the night before, said falsely that zoos are more heavily regulated than abortion clinics in Missouri. Missouri is currently the third most restrictive state in the country specific to abortion access, with only one remaining clinic serving over 3 million women. What was not mentioned in all of the media coverage of Onder was the exchange between Onder had state Sen. Ed Emery (R-Lamar) while debating a bill that would extend SNAP (food assistance) benefits to the elderly at farmer’s markets. During that exchange, Emery said that since 1973, when the U.S. Supreme Court ruled on Roe v. Wade, “Fifteen and a half million African American babies have been slain in abortions in that same period of time.” He went on to compare, as Rep. Mike Moon (R-Ash Grove) had previously done, the abortion rates in the African-American community to the Holocaust.

Unfortunately, Emery’s inaccurate rant did not stop there. He went on to misappropriate quotes from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his stance on abortion.

Emery: “Martin Luther King said, ‘The negro cannot win as long as he is willing to sacrifice the lives of his children for comfort and safety.’ That was Dr. Martin Luther King, great man.”

Onder: “Now when the Reverend King said that, was he talking about abortion?”

Emery: “He was talking about abortion.”

In fact, in 1960, King served on a committee for a Planned Parenthood study on contraception, explaining, “I have always been deeply interested in and sympathetic with the total work of the Planned Parenthood Federation.” He repeatedly wrote about why family planning programs are important, and why they need to be funded by the government. In 1966, King received a Margaret Sanger award from Planned Parenthood “in recognition of excellence and leadership in

n The attempted link between race and abortion to justify opposition to legal abortion is inherently racist.

furthering reproductive health and reproductive rights.”

King saw a clear link between the struggle for racial equality and the struggle for reproductive justice. In the acceptance speech he wrote for his award from Planned Parenthood—which his wife, Coretta Scott King, accepted in his place—he explained that reproductive rights activists like Planned Parenthood’s Margaret Sanger help further broader movements for equality.

“Margaret Sanger had to commit what was then called

a crime in order to enrich humanity, and today we honor her courage and vision; for without them there would have been no beginning,” King wrote. “Our sure beginning in the struggle for equality by nonviolent direct action may not have been so resolute without the tradition established by Margaret Sanger and people like her.” He went on to say that the AfricanAmerican community has “a special and urgent concern” with issues of family planning.

The attempted link between race and abortion to justify opposition to legal abortion is inherently racist. There is no evidence that the reproductive rights movement targets black women, and reproductive justice leaders like Loretta Ross and Dr. Willie Parker say the notion is simply a rightwing effort to drive a wedge into the African-American community. We see evidence of this anti-choice agenda in bills like House Bill 252, which would criminalize pregnant women, like they have in Indiana and Tennessee, or by not expanding Medicaid.

Of course, black women have had very little reproductive choice, historically. During slavery, black women endured forced childbirth. Later, many black women were ordered sterilized by state or local agencies, often without their consent or knowledge. More recently, black women have had to bear the burden of the racist “welfare mom” stereotype.

The continued dehumanizing debate by white male legislators on women’s bodies – and the black community –continues the trend in Missouri of anti-abortion legislators attempting to make the case that women should not make their own reproductive decisions. Again, the lives of women – and especially black women – do not matter to these legislators.

The leadership in Jefferson City needs to stop the racist lies about abortion and start working in ways to increase health care access for all Missourians. Alison Dreith is executive director of NARAL Pro-Choice Missouri.

St. Louis Convention and Visitors Commission

Relive the historic bike ride of the Buffalo Soldiers

Mary Meachum Freedom Crossing Celebration is May 6

By Kiara Bryant For the St. Louis American

Each year the Mary Meachum Celebration sets out to educate, inform and provide an experience reflecting a historic event acquainting visitors with the customs and culture of African Americans throughout history. As part of this year’s celebration they will also commemorate the 120th anniversary of the Buffalo Soldiers grueling journey to St. Louis.

The 2017 Mary Meachum Freedom Crossing Celebration will take place on Saturday, May 6 with black history tours from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. and event presentations from 12-5 p.m. The event is free and open to the public featuring reenactments, music, food, art and much more.

The Mary Meachum site is located at 28 E. Grand Ave.

In 1855, Mary Meachum a free-born black woman, fought against slavery using her home as a depot for the Underground Railroad. In 1855, she was arrested for aiding in the attempted escape of nine slaves across the Mississippi River to freedom in Illinois. The site is now named in her honor, and it is Missouri’s first nationally recognized Underground Railroad site.

As slavery ended and brought forth new beginnings, we saw the rise of black cultural institutions, education, churches and the Buffalo Soldiers. The Buffalo Soldiers were established by Congress after the Civil War as the first peacetime all-black regiments in the U.S. Army.

In 1897, bicycles were a new invention and the government wanted to test them for military use. Twenty members of the 25th Infantry (a.k.a. the Buffalo Soldiers) departed from Ft. Missoula, Montana in June and traveled all the way to Jefferson Barracks in St. Louis across five states for a total of 1,987 miles in only 41 days.

At the time, there were only 26 prototypes produced. The Buffalo Soldiers were to test

these models in different terrains and weather conditions. While in the Rocky Mountains, they faced an unusually late spring snow storm and rode over railroad tracks for hundreds of miles. They also carried the bikes for almost 300 miles through sand hills in Nebraska. Once they arrived in St. Louis, they were welcomed by thousands of cheering fans. On Saturday, May 6 you can learn all about their exhausting journey as you participate in the three-mile family-oriented tour from Laclede’s Landing to the Mary Meachum site. You may walk or ride with narrated stops about the Buffalo Soldiers’ bike ride, and the tour concludes at the Mary Meachum celebration. Or you can also join the 10-mile narrated bike ride covering black history in the St. Louis region. Through bike tours, performances, demonstrations, children’s games, music, dance, food and art vendors you’ll learn all about this milestone event. Dress in 1897 style or come as you are. For more details about this event, please visit marymeachum.org. Journey to explorestlouis. com for more about events and attractions offered around town.

Photos courtesy of the National Black Tourism Network

The 2017 Mary Meachum Freedom Crossing Celebration will take place on Saturday, May 6 with black history tours from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. and event presentations from 12-5 p.m.

Photo courtesy of the National Black Tourism Network

In 1897, bicycles were a new invention and the government wanted to test them for military use. Twenty members of the 25th Infantry (a.k.a. the Buffalo Soldiers) rode bikes from Ft. Missoula, Montana to St. Louis – 1,987 miles in 41 days.

Guest Columnist Allison Dreith

NEWSPAPER IN EDUCATION

Nutrition Challenge:

Focus On Mealtime!

PRESENT:

Healthy Kids Kids

One reason many of us overeat is because we simply aren’t paying attention! Have you ever grabbed a bag of chips while watching a movie, and before you know it the bag is empty? It is very important that we are aware of all of the food that we eat. Here are some ways to think about what we’re eating.

> Don’t eat in front of the television. Make sure all of your meals are at the table.

As the weather warms up, one great way to get outside and stay active is to try gardening! As soon as the threat of frost has passed, ask your parents where you can start a small vegetable garden.

You’ll only need a small area of dirt. Look for a spot that gets several hours of sun a day. Working with an adult, you can begin digging up the area. The ground is usually pretty solid and hard after a long, cold winter and you can start “working” the soil to get it ready for your garden. You might also want to

Weathering theStorm

Spring brings many wonderful things: flowers, warmer weather, fun late-night outdoor play… but it also brings storms! Remember to use caution when storms are predicted. When a storm hits, follow these safety procedures.

> Watch the local news for storm predictions and updates.

> Have a family plan for where to go if you hear a tornado warning or siren. If you have a

> If you do want a snack while playing a video game or working on your computer, take a break and sit at the table for your snack.

> And as always, eat slowly and enjoy every bite.

Sitting at the table allows you to focus on your foods, enjoying the taste. It also helps you stay more aware of your stomach’s “full” signals, reducing the amount you eat.

Learning Standards: HPE 1, HPE 2, HPE 5,

explore ways to protect your plants from local pesky animals that just might want to come by for a taste.

Digging, planting and weeding a garden is a great way to bend, stretch, work muscles and increase your heart rate. If all goes well, you will be enjoying your very own home-grown vegetables this summer!

Learning Standards: HPE 1, HPE 2, HPE 5, NH 1

basement, that is usually the best place to be!

> Stay away from windows.

> Do not stand under a tree in a storm. Trees can attract lightening.

> Never, ever play in flooding water, ditches or storm drains.

As a class, discuss other ways to stay safe in a storm.

Learning Standards: HPE 5, NH 5

Zucchini Pizza Bites

Ingredients: 1 Large Zucchini 1 Tbsp Olive oil ¼ Cp Pasta sauce ¼ Cp Low-fat Shredded mozzarella cheese Salt/Pepper to taste

Directions: Slice zucchini into 1/8 inch circles. Simmer in olive oil until soft. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and top with sauce and cheese. Cover until melted.

Kelciera Matthews, Registered Nurse

Where do you work? I work at St. Louis Children’s Hospital. Where did you go to school? I graduated from Treadwell High School in Memphis, Tennessee, and earned an Associate of Science in Nursing from Forest Park Community College. What does a registered nurse do? I get to help kids get back to playing again! I am part of a team that helps sick children get well. As a staff nurse, I help run different tests and do a variety of procedures to find and fix the problem.

Why did you choose this career? I love helping people. I wanted a career that allowed me not only to help others, but also give back and make a difference. What is your favorite part of the job you have? I love that I get to interact with children all day! I get to be a kid again. I’m most humbled when I work on the oncology (cancer) floor. Those children have the most beautiful attitudes and outlook on life! They teach me life lessons every day that I work with them. I am reminded to live life to the fullest and be thankful for what I have.

Learning Standards: HPE6, NH3

The St. Louis American’s award winning NIE program provides newspapers and resources to more than 7,000 teachers and students each week throughout the school year, at no charge.

Questions or comments? Contact Cathy Sewell csewell@stlamerican.com or 314-289-5422

CLASSROOM SPOTLIGHT

Lewis & Clark Elementary 2nd grade teacher

Pfeiffer shows students Braeden Cosey and

how

SCIENCE CORNER

What to Include In A Mobile First Aid Kit

Everyone has had an accident—a fall, a bike wreck, etc. There may be times you get hurt and your parents are not with you, so you need to be prepared. For just a few dollars, you can create a kit that you can take with you to be sure you have everything you need.

Start with a small bag. You many have one at home. If not, you can get durable bags at the dollar store. Important things to add: Neosporin to treat wounds, eye droppers can be used not only to get debris from your eyes, but also to flush debris out of a wound. Tweezers are effective in removing splinters or dirt from a wound. A safety pin can be used in different ways and Band-aids are a must have.

SCIENCE INVESTIGATION

In this experiment, you will make your own quicksand.

Materials Needed:

• 1 Cup of Maize Corn Flour • Half a Cup of Water • A Large Plastic Container • A Spoon Process:

q Mix the corn flour and water in the container.

w To demonstrate the quicksand properties to others, stir slowly, and allow the quicksand to drip from the spoon.

In this project, you will work in groups of 3-5 to solve the problems.

You and your group are stranded on an island, therefore, you have a limit to your food supply. The following list of food items represents all of the raw food and water you have for the next 30 days.

Food Supplies

7.5 liters of rice

7.5 liters of pasta

7.5 liters of beans 15 liters of mixed seeds

100 liters of bottled water

QUESTIONS

It’s always important that you keep your cell phone charged if you have one. This will allow you to keep in contact with your parents and emergency officials. Bottled water is also important to keep on hand. To learn more about first aid kits, check out the links below.

The following website gives tips for a first aid kit for home or the car: http:// kidshealth.org/en/parents/firstaidkit.html.

For more information, visit: https://www.ready.gov/kit.

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

Make Quicksand

e What happens when you stir the mix quickly?

Analyze: When you stir quickly, there is less water between the grains of flour and the mixture becomes thick and hardens. When you stir slowly, it allows water to move between the grains of flour and the mixture is more fluid and moves more slowly.

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

Water is needed to cook most of the raw food in your list. The following information will provide you with the food-water ratio you will need to cook your food:

Food-Water Ratio Chart (1 cup = 250 ml)

Rice: ( 1 : 2 ratio )

Pasta ( 1 : 2 ratio )

Beans ( 1 : 3 ratio )

QUESTIONS

z How much water will be needed to cook each raw food item?

SCIENCE STARS

African American Analytical Chemist Raychelle Burks

Dr. Raychelle Burks refers to herself as a magical unicorn because women like her are rare. She is an AfricanAmerican female with a doctorate degree in analytical chemistry. She is very popular in social media circles with a blog (called thirtyseven), YouTube videos, and Twitter @DrRubidium. Her initials, Rb, are the same as rubidium, the 37th element on the periodic table. She uses this connection in her blog title and Twitter handle. Burks’ passion is the chemistry of pop culture, specifically zombies, crime shows, and Game of Thrones. Her interests are more than her hobbies, they are scientifically based. Burks earned her bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Northern Iowa University in 2001. Seven years later, she earned her master’s degree in Forensic Science from Nebraska Wesleyan University. Burks earned her PhD in Analytical Chemistry from the University of Nebraska in 2011. She completed post-doctoral research at the University of Nebraska’s Department of Chemistry. In May 2016, she joined St. Edward’s University in Austin, Texas, as an assistant professor. She also assists law enforcement officers to detect explosives.

Burks is often seen at Geek Girl Con; she started the DIYscizone there. She is the co-founder of National Science and Technology News Service, which connects AfricanAmerican STEM professionals with journalists. Burks is a member of the Curly Hair Mafia, an informal group of African Americans who review horror, sci-fi, and fantasy TV shows and movies. She created an idea for a zombie repellent cologne, which caught the attention of several news outlets. Her idea was featured on Perez Hilton’s website, NBC news Weird Science, and Saturday Night Live. Burks is an excellent example of combining your interests and passions with STEM.

I can read about an African American who has contributed to the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.

To see some of Burks’ sites, visit: http:// thirtyseven. scientopia.org/, https://twitter. com/DIYscizone. Learning Standards:

z What will the daily ration of food and water be for your group?

x If one cup of food/ water is equal to two hundred fifty milliliters (250 ml), how many cups of food and water will each person be issued a day?

DID YOU KNOW?

and

x If your group cooked one cup of all three raw food items once a day, how much water would be needed and much water would be left from your daily water supply?

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

@SciGirls: This Twitter feed is from the PBS show, designed to get more women involved in STEM activities.

@ProjectStepUP: This Twitter feed is designed to help underrepresented populations in STEM.

In this YouTube video, Mae Jemison talks about minorities in STEM: https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=rWLn79cS-cw.

In this TED talk video, they discuss diversity in STEM: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=-v8aDo4dV3Q.

MAP CORNER

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

Activities —

Facts: Find three news articles about facts you have studied in school this year. Underline facts you studied in class and underline new facts.

A new president of the United States has been sworn into ofice this year.

Acrostic Poem: Choose a news article to read. Select one word from the headline and use that word to create an acrostic poem about the article you read.

Learning Standards: I can use the newspaper to select information. I can make textto-self connections.

Nicole

Tania Burnette

to indentify nouns in a sentence using the STEM page from the newspaper.

Lewis & Clark Elementary is in the Riverview Gardens School District. Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American

Business

We must streamline developer incentives

Comptroller Darlene Green’s 2017 inauguration remarks

By Comptroller Darlene Green Guest columnist

I want to thank the voters of the city of St. Louis for having enough confidence in me to honor me with a win of 79 percent in the primary and 86 percent in the general election. In other words, I thank the voters for a landslide victory!

As the city’s first woman elected as comptroller, I am honored that I will now serve alongside our first female mayor. It is important for our community, especially our young people, to see that both men and women can serve in the top jobs of city leadership.

As I reflect on my journey as comptroller, I could talk about my strong fiscal management that saved the city more than 100 million tax

n We must start from a position of strength. Make clear to developers that the city will not subsidize nonessential projects at the maximum. We’ll work with you – but we are not desperate, and we won’t give away resources that should go to essential services for our citizens.

dollars. I could remind you that in 2008 when the economy went down, our credit rating went up. Or, I could tell you that it was my foresight

to implement a rate stabilization fund that helps mitigate rates and charges at the airport. I could tell you IKEA opened in Midtown, and Cortex continues to grow and draw exciting new employers. And, yes, we kept the NGA jobs in St. Louis. The NGA-West headquarters will be a key part of our emerging Downtown North neighborhood . I could also talk about the calls I have received from the White House with job offers. Oh yes: in 1997, just after having been sworn in to my first full term, I was called and offered a job by the women of the White House to join the Clinton administration; and in 2009, the Obama White House called to offer me a CFO position

New YWCA Early Head Start center honors Justice Draper’s mother

By Laurie Waters For The St. Louis American

The garage doors that once opened for the Missouri State Emissions Testing Station on West Florissant are gone, replaced by floor to ceiling windows. There are no concrete bays with cars chugging out exhaust, but rather classrooms filled with baby cribs, toddler-sized desks and brightly colored age-appropriate toys. The six months of planning, design and construction are over. The YWCA Bessie T. Draper Early Head Start and Pregnant Women’s Center, 4642 W. Florissant Ave., now a reality, was a labor of love from the beginning. Aware of the need for services for infants and toddlers in this neighborhood along I-70, and bolstered with research showing a high rate of no or inadequate pre-natal care and infant mortality, YWCA Head Start Director Stacy Johnson successfully applied to the national Head Start office for the funding to open and operate the center. It will serve pregnant women and children up to age three from income-

Jerry Fox Jr. was named senior vice president and chief information officer for BJC HealthCare. He comes to BJC from Rockwell Automation in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where he is currently the global chief information officer. He is responsible for information technology strategy and operations at the $6 billion industrial automation company with more than 25,000 employees in 80 countries.

Colette M. McLemore was appointed assistant dean of Student and Alumni Affairs of University Missouri St. Louis’ College of Nursing. She previously worked at Saint Louis University College of Medicine, where she managed the Summer Scholars Program and was a Saint Louis University 2016 Woman of the Year. She is a doctoral candidate in Higher Education Administration at Saint Louis University.

Courtney Davis joined KAI Design & Build as senior electrical designer. He will be responsible for the designing of lighting, power, low voltage systems, specification editing and calculation on new and renovation projects. He has 36 years of professional experience, most recently as an electrical designer at United Excel Design in St. Louis.

Michelle CollinsButler was promoted to labor relations specialist, Gateway District at the United States Postal Service’s St. Louis Processing & Distribution Center. She will represent the Postal Service in grievance disputes and arbitrations filed by the four major unions that represent postal employees. She also provides management training to new supervisors and provides ongoing training to managers involving labor matters.

David M. Golliday is the new chief of police for the City of Northwoods. He retired from the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department after serving close to 30 years and is owner of Specialized Training Group, which provides training to corporations in diversity, workplace violence and bullying. Previously he was lead negotiator on a hostage response team and implemented plans for community policing.

St. Louis County Circuit Court Judge Judy Draper; Chelsea Draper, an assistant attorney general of the State of Missouri; and Missouri Supreme Court Justice George W. Draper III at the April 13 ribbon cutting for the YWCA Bessie T. Draper Early Head Start and Pregnant Women’s Center, 4642 W. Florissant Ave., which was named after his mother.

Yolonda Davis is the Ferguson-Florissant School District’s 2017 Support Staff Employee of the Year. She is an office manager at McCluer North High School. “Ms. Davis is the lifeline of McCluer North High School. When people need to know something, she is the first person they ask,” said Andrew Croley, school principal. “I truly

Jerry Fox Jr.

David M. Golliday

Colette M. McLemore

Yolonda Davis

Courtney Davis

Michelle CollinsButler

Darlene Green was sworn in as St. Louis comptroller for a sixth consecutive term at City Hall on Tuesday, April 18.

Photo by Wiley Price

Photo by Laurie Waters

By Nathaniel Sillin

Cities attract people for different reasons, which is partly why cities are such popular vacation destinations.

Summer is one of the best times to visit, as the long days give you extra hours of sunlight for exploration and many cities host a variety of free activities. The busy season can mean rising prices, but there are a few city-specific savings tactics that can take some of the strain off your budget.

Look for insiders’ knowledge about the city. Many major cities are covered by bloggers who focus on how to enjoy the city on the cheap. You could start your planning by researching online with the keywords “free or cheap” and the city’s name. Some of the well-organized websites will even let you filter events by date, cost and your interests.

Also check the city’s local newspaper sites for lists of free or cheap events. During the summer, many cities have free outdoor concerts and movie screenings; you can pack a picnic dinner and enjoy the warm weather and show.

Get around the city like a local. It might make sense to take an occasional cab, but some cities have robust public transportation systems. Take a few minutes to study the city’s layout before arriving and don’t be afraid to ask locals for advice or directions.

Secrets to saving on your summer city vacation

If you’re in town for more than a few days, look into time-based public transportation passes. For example, you can get a sevenday Unlimited Ride MetroCard for subway and bus rides in New York City for $32. (There’s $1 new-card fee if you’re not refilling an existing card.) You can even use it on the crosstown buses that can quickly get you from one side of Central Park to the other.

Explore new cuisine. One

DRAPER

continued from page B1 eligible families.

Created during President Lyndon Johnson’s War on Poverty in 1964, Head Start was designed to help break the cycle of poverty, providing preschool children of low-income families with a comprehensive program to meet their emotional, social, health, nutritional and psychological needs.

of my favorite parts about visiting a city is trying the restaurants. Whether you save up and enjoy one of the city’s finest eateries or find a holein-the-wall hidden gem, there’s something for everyone. Luckily, many cities’ must-try foods are on the inexpensive side. Chicago’s hot dogs, Portland’s doughnuts and Austin’s tacos all often cost less than $5. You can

also look for lists of cheap and delicious eats alongside the free-entertainment tips from frugal bloggers and local papers.

High-end restaurants will inevitably be pricey, but if it’s on your “must-do” list, there could be ways to save. Some restaurants offer less expensive brunches or early evening tasting menus, or you might be able to grab a small bite and a

drink at the bar rather than a full meal.

Find the deals if you’re going to shop. Some people see shopping as an intrinsic part of a vacation, and cities are often home to chains’ flagship stores, boutiques and specialty shops. The wide variety of options could tempt you to overspend, but it also means there are plenty of

opportunities to save. If you’re in the luxury market, look for sample sales where high-end brands might be charging (relatively) less for products formerly on runways or showroom floors. Trying to stick to a tight budget? Look for large retailers’ clearance sales, particularly if you’re visiting when stores are clearing seasonal items off their shelves.

Think outside the box when it comes to lodging. Most people know that hotels in the heart of tourist areas are often the most expensive, and many turn to home-sharing sites as cheaper alternatives.

Another trick is to look for availability at hotels in the city’s financial district. Holidays and weekends can bring vacancies at these properties, which may mean lower rates. Hotels right outside the main city, but accessible by public transportation, can also cost less.

Bottom line: Cities can be expensive, particularly during the busy summer, but there’s a reason they’re such popular vacation destinations. Whether you’re interested in museums, shows, food, historic sites or all of the above, there are ways to save and make the most out of your summer in the city.

Nathaniel Sillin directs Visa’s financial education programs. To follow Practical Money Skills on Twitter: www. twitter.com/PracticalMoney.

The Draper Early Head Start Center is named for national Head Start pioneer Bessie T. Draper, the late mother of Missouri Supreme Court Justice George W. Draper III. Bessie Draper joined Head Start in Washington, D.C., in 1966 as the first parentprogram specialist. She strongly believed that parents should be full partners in the design and delivery of services, a philosophy that was alien in much of education in those days, and one that remains a pillar of the Head Start policy today.

Justice Draper; his wife, St. Louis County Circuit Court

“The magnitude of the impact of this center on this neighborhood and these families will last a lifetime,” Johnson said. “Even those who don’t have much deserve good things.”

n Bessie T. Draper, the late mother of Missouri Supreme Court Justice George W. Draper III, joined Head Start in Washington, D.C., in 1966 as the first parent-program specialist.

Judge Judy Draper; and their daughter, Chelsea Draper, an assistant attorney general of the State of Missouri, were honored guests at the ribboncutting ceremony on Thursday, April 13, along with former state Rep. Betty Thompson.

Justice Draper spoke of his mother’s passion for Head Start, saying that she flew all over the nation to improve the lives of low-income families “no matter what color they

were,” serving families in Appalachia as well as in urban areas. “Mother would be proud to know you are taking care of pregnant women,” Justice Draper said in reference to the pre-natal services offered both in the center and in the home.

“This is an honor to our family and to her work showing that parents are important in all aspects of a child’s development.”

Touring the new facility,

Justice Draper and his family paused before a commemorative photo wall.

One photo showed both his parents, Bessie Draper and her husband, George W. Draper II, on the campus of Howard University, where he graduated law school in the early 1940s. The elder Draper went on to become the first African American to serve as a St. Louis Circuit Court chief trial attorney, under Thomas Eagleton.

In another photograph, Bessie Draper is wearing a single strand of pearls, a necklace that would be handed down to Chelsea and one she would wear to the ceremony honoring her grandmother.

Perhaps it is no coincidence that Chelsea, a third-generation Draper, is also a thirdgeneration public servant and attorney, personifying the importance of parents (and grandparents) in a child’s life – just as Bessie T. Draper promised all those years ago.

“Stacy and her team worked very hard to make this dream come true,” YWCA CEO Adrian Bracy said, “for the parents and children of this community.”

For more information, call (314) 427-4940 or visit www. ywcastlouis.org. Laurie Waters is marketing and communications manager for YWCA Metro St. Louis.

n “I’m very proud. People counted us out at the beginning of the season.”

– Russell Westbrook

Track and Field noTebook

With Earl Austin Jr.

Mizzou’s ‘Black Ice’ Harris could slide to Dallas Cowboys in NFL Draft

~ See ‘Sports Eye’ page B4 ~

ESL flies high on the road

The East St. Louis Flyers and Flyerettes both had productive weekend’s as both teams ventured out of state for competition.

The Flyerettes dominated the other girls’ competition at the Lindenwood High Classic in St. Charles. East St. Louis won nine individual events and all three sprint relays.

Rokelle Stanley enjoyed a big meet as she finished first in the 100-meter high hurdles, 300-meter low hurdles and high jump. Sprinter Faith Mitchell won both the 100- and 200meter dashes. Jariah Turner finished first in the 400-meter dash. The Flyerettes also won the 4x100-, 4x200 and 4x400meter relays while finishing third in the 4x800.

In the field events, Evangeline Harris and Jazzmine Poole finished in first and second place in both the shot put and discus events. Onyae Ingram won the long jump while Ahmia Dorsey finished first in the triple jump.

The East Side boys’ team ventured to Lawrence, Kansas and enjoyed a big day at the Kansas Relays. Delano Anderson finished second in the 110-meter high hurdles while Deonte Anderson and Willie Johnson were second and fourth in the 400, respectively. The Flyers also won the 4x400-meter relay. They also finished second in the 4x100, third in the 4x200 and fifth in the 4x800.

Several other top performers from St. Louis were in action at the Kansas Relays over the weekend. SLUH’s Jayson Ashford finished second in the 100 in 10.77 and ran a leg on the Jr. Bills’ 4x400 relay team that finished in second place. SLUH also finished fifth in the 4x800. CBC had a good day in the sprint

In 1996, after winning a gold medal at the Olympic Games in Atlanta (super-heavyweight division), Wladimir Klitschko began his professional boxing career in Hamburg, Germany. Around the same time, more than 4,000 miles away in Cleveland, B.O.N.E.

Thugs & Harmony released the single for Crossroads. Nearly 21 years into the Ukranian’s esteemed boxing career, the iconic hip-hop song could be the soundtrack to the 41-year-old former champion’s career. Though Klitschko was never the most-popular fighter to US boxing fans (thanks to his dull fighting style and robot-like charisma), it’s hard to argue his run as one of the most successful heavyweights in history. Klitschko’s championship reign of nine years, seven months and seven days is second only

to Joe Louis Much of his success is owed to the late-Emmanuel Steward. Klitschko’s chin was exposed to be delicate, he suffered KO losses to Ross Purrity, Corrie Sanders and Lamon Brewster. However, once Steward took over in Klitschko’s corner, he flourished. Steward taught the 6-foot-6 fighter to use his height to keep his opponents and bay and to clutch and hold on for dear life in his opponents got within his guard. The style didn’t make for the most exciting fights, but they did earn “Dr. Steelhammer” 18 consecutive title defenses. That streak came to a surprising end in 2015 when Klitschko was defeated by Great Britain’s 6-foot-9 Tyson Fury. The then-39-year-old Klitschko struggled to deal with the length and movement of the awkward Fury.

Earl Austin Jr.

Former sparring partners Anthony Joshua and Wladimir Klitschko will battle for the IBF and WBA heavyweight titles Saturday night on

Championship Boxing.

Ishmael

Sistrunk

Photo by Wiley Price

Kirkwood sophomore Avril Ferguson jumped 5’6” during the Dale Collier Invitational. Ferguson took 8th in the event with Kirkwood finishing 4th in the invitational.

SportS EyE

Alvin A. Reid

With

Mizzou’s ‘Black Ice’ Harris could slide to Dallas Cowboys in NFL Draft

Defensive end Charles Harris from Missouri enters tonight’s (April 27) NFL Draft with several teams interested in landing him in the first round.

Various mock drafts have Harris pegged anywhere from 14th to the Philadelphia Eagles to 28th to the Dallas Cowboys.

Rotoworld’s Josh Norris says Harris would be a perfect fit for Eagles defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz, although it might be a reach for the franchise to use the 14th overall selection.

“I think Charles Harris. (He) is widely, widely loved in the NFL, and we’re catching up to it now. I think that he definitely fits,” Norris wrote.

Harris, who finished with 61 tackles, nine sacks and two forced fumbles, was less productive in 2016 than the previous season, thanks in part to a change in Mizzou’s defensive scheme. The Tigers’ 4-8 record and no bowl appearance also didn’t help his draft stock.

junior in high school, he has the upside for (Cowboys) defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli to develop.”

USA TODAY’s Nate Davis said the Tampa Bay Buccaneers could throw a wrench in the Cowboys’ plan by taking Harris at No. 19.

“If they want to ramp up the pressure in a division full of special quarterbacks, they’ll have to spend their top pick to get a difference maker. Harris could establish a pick-yourpoison dilemma for offenses that generally focus on deleting Pro Bowl DT Gerald McCoy,” Davis said.

NBS’s Chris Collinsworth and the NFL Network’s Steve Mariucci have Harris headed to Detroit.

But Harris remains almost a certainty to be selected in the first round – and it could be a blessing in disguise if he falls into the hands of a team that reached the playoffs last year.

The Cowboys are desperate for a difference-making pass rusher, and most mock drafts have owner Jerry Jones and staff narrowing their first pick to Harris, UCLA’s Takkarist McKinley and Wisconsin’s T.J. Watt

NFL Network draft guru Mike Mayock, who could yet end up as the Washington Redskins general manager, said the Cowboys should jump on Harris if he lasts until No. 28.

“Charles Harris, I think, has picked up some steam. I would expect him to be gone before that. But if he was there, I think he’d be a great pick for the Cowboys. In addition to talent, he’s got an awful lot of talent, and he gets in that three-point stance and he goes,” Mayock told the Dallas Morning News

“He’s a long guy, plays hard, got a great work ethic. He’s really good off the field, high-character guy. If Charles Harris was there, I think he’d make a ton of sense.”

Peter King of Sports Illustrated has Harris going to the Cowboys, telling Yahoo Sports, “(There is) lots of interest in Harris late in round. Late bloomer, has played football just five years.”

CBS Sports Rob Rang says, “Harris has the burst, bend and lethal spin move to wreak havoc off the edge and, after only joining the sport as a

According to Collinsworth, “The Lions need more from their rush, and Charles Harris from Missouri is a great fit. This former basketball player has a beautiful spin move that looks effortless. He recorded just a 4.8-second 40-yard dash, but he plays fast and gets consistent hits on the quarterback.”

Mariucci, a former Lions head coach, said, “The guy I like? Charles Harris from Missouri.”

“(Mizzou has) got a pipeline to the NFL of pass rushers. Harris’ nickname is ‘Black Ice.’ I asked, ‘Why do they call you ‘Black Ice?’ He said, ‘Because by the time they see you, it’s too late.’”

Wizards’ sudden woes

After racing to a 2-0 lead in the best-of-seven series against the Atlanta Hawks, the Washington Wizards looked like the team that many people (me included) picked to take on the Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA Eastern Conference finals.

With the series tied at two heading back to Washington, guard Bradley Beal sounded frustrated on Monday.

“It was just too up and down,” Beal said Monday night after scoring 32 points in a 111101 loss.

“You spend all your time and energy trying to play catchup, and then you can’t finish in the fourth quarter.”

The Wizards built a true home-court advantage throughout the season, and Beal is hoping that re-energizes his team.

“We’re 2-2 right now. We move on. We have home court right now,” Beal said. “So, we’re going to protect our house and come back here more focused for Game 6.”

That game was scheduled for Wednesday night – so Beal is either headed to Atlanta with a chance to close out the Hawks or the thought of being sent home for the summer himself.

Subban, Preds in St. Louis

P.K. Subban and the Nashville Predators were not supposed to beat the mighty Chicago Blackhawks in a first-round series of the NHL Playoffs. Ryan Reaves and the St. Louis Blues were supposed to be spectators after

their series with the favored Minnesota Wild.

Subban and Reaves, two of the NHL’s star players of color, played integral roles in their team’s respective upsets and are now squaring off in a second-round series that started Wednesday night in St. Louis.

While Subban is focused on the Blues, he certainly felt some satisfaction when the Montreal Canadiens were eliminated from the playoffs by the New York Rangers last week.

The Canadiens traded Subban to Nashville for 31-year-old Shea Weber last

summer and the team didn’t have a lot of glowing praise for their departing star.

Chris Oddo, a noted NHL expert, wrote after the respective first-round upsets, “The Canadiens, touting a win-now philosophy and seeking a definitive change of tone in their dressing room, shipped out electric talent and fan favorite P.K. Subban for stay-home, rocket-blasting defenseman Shea Weber last summer.

“Subban was brilliant in his first playoff series with the Predators, putting up the highest (defensive rating)

Xavier Boland

percentage among Nashville’s fleet-footed defense corps. He registered two points and was a plus-4 in the Predators sweep of the top-seeded Blackhawks. Nashville’s still in the hunt for the Cup while the Canadiens are cleaning out their lockers and licking their wounds.”

Alvin A. Reid is a panelist on the Nine Network program, Donnybrook and appears on ABC’s The Allman Report and several sports radio shows, including Frank Cusumano’s “The Press Box” on KFNS. His Twitter handle is @aareid1.

Lindenwood University – Men’s Track

The junior from Kingston, Jamaica won the pole vault competition as last weekend’s Kansas Relays and set a new school record in the process. Boland cleared 17 feet 1 inch to break the school record, which he previously set on April 1 when he cleared 16-9 at the John Creer Invitational at Lindenwood. He also finished second at the Greenville Invitational.

As a sophomore, Boland was a second-team All-American in the pole vault. He finished ninth at the NCAA Division II Indoor Nationals.

Kamaria Gage

Saint Louis University – Women’s Track

The senior from Springfield, IL took home a couple of first-place finishes in the throws at the Saint Louis University Invitational. Gage won the discus with a throw of 124 feet 7 inches and the hammer throw with an effort of 155 feet 8 inches. Gage followed up with a pair of top five finishes at last weekend’s Pacesetter Invitational at Indiana State University. She finished fourth in the hammer throw and fifth in the discus to help the Billikens to a second-place finish in the team standings.

Alvin A. Reid

Various mock drafts have defensive end Charles ‘Black Ice’ Harris pegged anywhere from 14th to the Philadelphia Eagles to 28th to the Dallas Cowboys.

InsIde sports

With Earl Austin Jr.

Hall of Fame coach, Hall of Fame human

Preston Thomas inducted to Missouri Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame

I would like to send out special congratulations to my friend Preston Thomas on his recent induction to the Missouri Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame. This is a well-deserved honor for a tremendous man who has meant so much to so many young people in St. Louis. A former head basketball coach at Cardinal Ritter College Prep, Thomas was officially inducted at the state’s Hall of Fame weekend in Springfield. Thomas spent nearly 20 years as the head coach at Cardinal Ritter, where he enjoyed tremendous success. He guided the Lions to Missouri Class 2A state championships in 1990, 1995 and 1996. During his tenure, he helped develop the talents of such top players as Julian Winfield, Andrew “Smokey” Evans, Jahidi White, Chris Carrawell and Loren Woods.

n Not only was he a coach, but he was a counselor, teacher, mentor and friend.

Not only was Thomas a very successful basketball coach, his impact on the lives of young men was felt well beyond the basketball court. Not only was he a coach, but he was a counselor, teacher, mentor and friend. I had the opportunity to spend many hours in his office over the years and watched how he interacted with young people. Thomas had such as positive influence on the young people who he dealt with on an everyday basis. To be able to be in Springfield last weekend and deliver his induction speech was truly a blessing for Thomas because he had experienced some serious health issues a few years back that had us all worried sick. Not only has he recovered, but he is also back at Cardinal Ritter doing what he loves, teaching basketball. When future Hall of Famer Randy Reed was hired as

CLUTCH

Continued from B3

deficiencies. Should Joshua win, a potential rock ‘em, sock ‘em fight against Wilder would be one of the most exciting and appealing fights to be made in the division. But first, he has to deal with the experienced old sage in front of him.

There are two looming questions that can help determine who will win this fight. First, is Klitschko over the hill? The definitive answer to that question is ‘yes.’ At 41-years-old, there’s simply no way that Klitschko will have the stamina or mobility that he had during his prime. In his loss to Fury, Klitschko threw and landed an embarrassing amount of punches at 19 and 4 respectively. Now Klitschko is returning to the ring after a year-and-a-half layoff. Expect age and ring rust to be factors in this bout.

The second question is whether Joshua’s youth and power can make up for his lack

PREP

Continued from B3 relays as the Cadets won the 4x100 in 42.76 seconds and finished fourth in the 4x200.

The MICDS girls also had a handful of athletes in Kansas. Junior Zionn Pearson finished fourth in the long jump with an 18-0. The Rams also finished third in the 4x100 and fourth in the 4x200.

Fred Lyon Invitational

Parkway North standout Jakeel Suber took home individual victories in the 110-meter high hurdles and 200-meter dash on his home track. His winning time in the hurdles was 14.54 seconds. Junior Arther Green of Parkway Central won the 100 and anchored the Colts’ 4x100 to a first-place finish. Darius Ramsey of Parkway Central won the 300-meter intermediate hurdles and finished second in the 110meter high hurdles to Suber. The Colts Ryan Long won the triple jump with an impressive effort of 45 feet 5 inches.

Freshman Justin Robinson of Hazelwood West finished first in the 400-meter dash. The Wildcats also won the 4x400 and 4x800-meter relays.

First in 100, 200 and 400

Freshman sprinter Courtney Williams of Nerinx Hall enjoyed a big day at the Metro Women’s Athletic Association meet at Vianney. Williams finished first in the 100, 200 and 400. Her winning time in

Preston Thomas spent nearly 20 years as the head coach at Cardinal Ritter, guiding the Lions to Missouri Class 2A state championships in 1990, 1995 and 1996. He helped develop the talents of such top players as Julian Winfield, Andrew “Smokey” Evans, Jahidi White, Chris Carrawell and Loren Woods

Cardinal Ritter’s new coach two years ago, one of the first things he did was call on Thomas to bring him back as an assistant to work with the program’s young players.

of experience against worldclass opponents. The answer to that question will ultimately determine the winner.

Style-wise, Joshua is tailor-made for Klitschko. He’s a pretty straight-forward fighter who is more brawler than boxer. Klitschko shouldn’t have to seek out Joshua in the ring like he did when he faced Fury. The IBF champion will be in front of him all night long, aiming those monstrous looping shots at Wlad’s chin. Though Klitschko’s china-chinned problems are far in the past, in reality, he hasn’t faced very many tall and powerful fighters who could reach his chin with ease. If Joshua can walk through Klitschko’s vaunted power, he certainly has the height and reach to touch the former champion. Joshua’s chin is also a big question mark. He was dazed by unheralded Dillian Whyte in 2015 and was dropped several times during the amateurs. There have also been several rumors of Joshua being dropped in sparring over

the 400 was 58.8 seconds. The Markers also finished first in the 4x400-meter relay.

On tap this weekend

The Marion Freeman/ Clayton Invitational will be held on Friday and Saturday at Gay Field in Clayton. The St. Louis Public Schools Field Days will be held on Friday and Saturday at Gateway STEM. The Jim Schmuck Invitational Boys Meet will be held on Thursday at Parkway South. The Victoria Reeves Invitational Girls Meet will be held on Saturday at Parkway South. The Eureka Girls Invitational will be held on Thursday and Friday.

So, once again, congratulations, Preston, on the wonderful honor. You are a Hall of Fame basketball coach and a Hall of Fame human being as well.

Show-Me Lauryn

Kirkwood High girls

basketball star Lauryn Miller earned the Ms. Show-Me Basketball award last weekend in Springfield. The 6’2” Miller concluded a stellar four-year career by leading the Pioneers to the Class 5 state championship, the first in the school’s history in girls’ basketball. Miller was a dominant force throughout her career as she also played in the USA Basketball program two years ago. She will continue her career at UCLA next season.

Peanut and Irons honored

Congratulations also go out Vashon’s Daniel “Peanut” Farris and head coach Tony Irons on their special recognition in Springfield. Farris was the Class 4 Player of the Year and Irons was the Class 4 Coach of the Year after the Wolverines won their second consecutive state championship in March.

the years. If Joshua can’t take a punch with headgear on, how will he fare against a man with

a 78% KO rate over nearly 70 fights?

Picking a winner here is

the st. LouIs AmerIcAn

almost a 50/50 prospect. A Joshua victory would mean that the Klitschko era is officially

Tavian Willis

McCluer South-Berkeley – Baseball

The junior infielder/pitcher has been a standout performer in leading the Bulldogs to a 6-1 start this spring. Willis is one of the top hitters in the St. Louis metro area with a .609 batting average with one home run and seven runs batted in. He was three for five with three runs, one RBI and two stolen bases in a 14-4 victory over Normandy. Willis was also three for five with

Intentional letters

Several top area basketball players signed letters of intent last week. MICDS standout guard Alec Spence signed with Rice University. The 6’5” Spence was the Metro League Player of the Year after leading the Rams to a 19-9 record and a conference title. Guard Cam Potts of Webster Groves signed with Drury University in Springfield, Mo. The 6’1” Potts was a key component to the Statesmen’s run to the Class 5 state championship. Guard Steve Webb of Westminster Christian has signed with UMSL. The 6’2” Webb averaged 20 points a game in his senior year for the Wildcats. Guard Destan Williams of Pattonville signed with Southwestern Illinois College (SWIC). The 5’9” Williams led the Pirates to their first district championship in more than 30 years.

and definitively in the past. A Klitschko victory would muddle up a heavyweight division that seems to finally be sorting itself out with the next generation of fighters. As much as I’d love to see Joshua send Klitschko into retirement (I don’t dislike Klitschko, but his time has passed), I don’t think he’s quite ready. Look for Joshua to jump on Klitschko early and maybe appear to almost end the fight early. However, Klitschko will use his vast experience to weather the storm. I can see Joshua going for broke and punching himself out. If he does, the infamous Wlad jab and grab strategy will go into full effect turning an exciting fight into a dull affair down the stretch. Even at age 41, I think Klitschko is built for a long fight and Joshua is not. My prediction: Wladimir Klitschko wins via 10th round KO. Follow Ishmael and In the Clutch on Twitter @ IshmaelSistrunk

two runs, two RBI and two stolen bases in a victory over Riverview Gardens. On the mound, Willis is currently 2-0 with a 1.91 earned run average. In his last outing, he struck out 10 batters in a 6-4 victory over McCluer South-Berkeley. Willis was also a standout football player on the Bulldogs’ Class 3 state semifinalists.

Anthony Joshua earned the IBF heavyweight title by knocking out St. Louis native Charles Martin last April.

continued from page B1

after the U.S. treasurer position went to someone else.

While I was delighted to receive the calls from Washington, D.C., I am even more excited to know that I have answered the call of public service and have served well – right here in my hometown.

This election, where I won in all 28 wards, has not only given me a vote of confidence, but also I have a mandate and a responsibility to do what is in the best interest of the people and their tax dollars.

First, I pledge to work with the mayor, civic and city leaders to address the issue of crime in our city and make our streets and our neighborhoods safer. Second, I pledge to work with the mayor and city leaders on how we can streamline developer incentives. Third, I pledge to work with city leaders to reduce costs throughout city government and enhance city revenues.

Gun violence in 2015 and in 2016 was on the rise in St. Louis city. Our communities have too many guns and not enough jobs; too much poverty and not enough educational or recreational opportunities. Some aspects of our culture seem to be worsening every

day, with people whose first instinct is to lash out at others instead of coming together.

In February, I announced a citywide crime prevention fund as an additional tool to address violence in our city. I plan to work with city leaders to reach out to the business community and gain their support as partners to supplement budgeted resources to not only combat crime in all the neighborhoods of the city, but also reduce the number of vacant buildings. As we seek to partner with businesses to support safer neighborhoods, we must to do more to reduce costs inside city government. I’m asking city leaders to support the budget office and the Board of E&A as we work to streamline travel costs, cell phone costs, credit card costs and city cars.

I will work with city leaders on a plan I call “Come back St. Louis” that will put bankers, real estate brokers, LRA and first responders together to renovate vacant buildings and make our neighborhoods safer.

Another challenge we face as a city is how to fund essential city services and at the same time promote growth and development. As comptroller, I’m faced every day with decisions on how to protect the city’s financial assets, protect the good credit of the city and protect the dollars that taxpayers have

entrusted to elected leaders.

Over the years it has become clear that the city needs to be more consistent and systemic in how it addresses developer incentives. Our default action must not be to give away every tax dollar or to make every TIF, every tax abatement or every CID the maximum.

We must start from a position of strength. Make clear to developers that the city will not subsidize non-essential projects at the maximum. We’ll work with you – but we are not desperate, and we won’t give away resources that should go to essential services for our citizens.

I encourage the mayor and the Board of Aldermen to work with me to streamline developer incentives, to utilize community benefit agreements and to seek inclusion, racial equity and social justice while being more fiscally responsible to city taxpayers.

We can have a clean, safe city and create a welcoming environment for new homeowners and new businesses if we work together to achieve it. St. Louis’ lights are still on, and we have hope and our future shines oh so bright.

Edited slightly from her 2017 inauguration remarks made at St. Louis City Hall on Tuesday, April 18.

University City seeks a developer

The City of University City is seeking a developer to transform a multi-parcel site at the interchange of Olive Boulevard and Interstate I-170. The redevelopment area includes approximately 31 acres under private ownership and would be suitable for retail and/or office, hospitality and residential development. The city will consider requests for public assistance – for the right development that supports articulated community vision, preferred uses and objectives.

Responses are due by May 1.

For more information, contact Andrea Riganti, Director of Community Development at 314-505-8516 or ariganti@ ucitymo.org.

Gateway Motorsports hiring part-time positions

Gateway Motorsports Park in Madison, Illinois has immediate part-time job openings. Positions include: grounds crew, housekeeping, maintenance, equipment cleaning and event staff. All positions start at $10 per hour. All applicants must be at least 16 years of age, with ID. For

more information, contact Sarah Allison at (618) 2158888 ext. 114.

Living It

Moving through black history

Black boy magic

“Sleight,”

Jacob

Latimore shows fans a new hand in ‘Sleight’

By Kenya Vaughn

Of The St. Louis American

J.D. Dillard’s film “Sleight” tells the story of a young man with an affinity for the art of illusion attempting to make a better life for himself and his sister.

After a successful festival run, “Sleight,” directed by J.D. Dillard, is preparing for a national theatrical release this weekend. The film’s star Jacob Latimore said that the magic extends well beyond the tricks performed by his character.

“We shot this movie in 16 days,” Latimore said. “When I first saw the movie, I was almost scared. I was like, ‘J, why does this look so good?’ He was like, ‘I don’t know.’ When you shoot a movie that fast, you’re kind of like, ‘I hope we got it.’ And I really feel like we did. We’re proud of how the puzzle came together.” Latimore plays Bo, a young street magician with goals of making a name for himself in the field before family tragedy forced him to put his aspirations aside and make ends meet by any means necessary.

“If we took out the magic in the movie and the effects, I think we would still have a very relatable story,” Latimore said. “We would have just a young kid trying to make a way for his family. I tried to keep focusing on that while we were filming. I wanted Bo to feel absolutely real. I wanted it to feel like this character lives in our neighborhoods.” Push comes to shove more than once for Bo as he tries to navigate a world that has forced him to have to make adult decisions while most young people his age are living carefree and easy.

“I didn’t want to do a movie where I stick my chest out with a big ‘S’ on it,” Latimore said. “I wanted it to be real. I wanted him to

Grand Center Arts Academy dance troupe stages ‘Ties That

By Kenya Vaughn Of The St.

describes the production as a choreographed dramatic musical with dance as the anchor in the storytelling. The show will play at the Sun Theatre next weekend (May 6-7).

Spoken word elements and a vocal performance

Bind’ next weekend

by Tony Award-nominated Vivian

Reed are also included in the piece.

“She’s such a powerhouse,” Williams said of Reed, whom he met on the international Broadway tour of “Bubbling Brown Sugar.”

“The Ties That Bind” features a young man from the present being transported to the past on what Williams calls a “sacred journey” to give him insight on the complex history of African Americans.

“I’ve been passionate about connecting the dots for young people,” Williams said. “Because

See TIES, C4

Funny for the masses

See more photos and read full the review by Sharee Silerio on stlamerican.com.

Photo By Lawrence Bryant

‘LA 92’ echoes Ferguson in lessons unlearned

By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American

“The police are trained to look at black men as criminals first and citizens second,” a concerned citizen said during one of many public forums in response to the 1991 beating of Rodney King by four Los Angeles police officers during a traffic stop. His voice was one of many that echoed a familiar frustration as part of the footage included in the upcoming National Geographic Channel documentary “LA 92.”

“Get out of the car, [n-word expletive]. Assume the position [n-word expletive],” another man said. “Get on the ground, [n-word expletive]. This is what we are confronted with. But then when we speak out, the first thing they say is ‘Why are we getting so restless?’” The comments made by the residents came

Film about Los Angeles riots to play St. Louis ahead of television premiere

nearly a year before the racial tension between law enforcement and African-American community was ignited when the officers who nearly beat King to death left the court without any criminal repercussions.

Directing duo Dan Lindsay and TJ Martin, who won a Best Documentary Oscar in 2012

for “The Undefeated,” remind viewers from the very beginning that when the world watched the city unravel a quarter-century ago, it was nothing new.

“LA 92” opens with footage of the turn of events leading to the 1965 Watts riots. The audio of the police casually identifies the passengers in a vehicle as “four [n-word] expletives suspects.” The passengers claimed police brutality. The community stood behind their claims and protests ensued. Watts went up in flames. In that footage, another man promised that history would repeat itself if the issues weren’t resolved at the root as opposed to simply quelling unrest. He was right. Nearly 30 years later, the city was in ashes again. The juxtaposition made the

See FILM, C4

White People”

Jacob Latimore stars in

directed by J.D. Dillard, which opens on Friday, April 28.

The Festival of Laughs hit the jackpot once again and when it stopped through St. Louis Friday night at The Chaifetz Arena. Hosted by Rickey Smiley (left) and featuring Bruce Bruce, Felipe Esparza with headliner Mike Epps (above), the audience was doubled over from the funny.

How to place a calendar listing

1. Email your listing to calendar@stlamerican. com OR

2. Visit the calendar section on stlamerican.com and place your listing

Calendar listings are free of charge, are edited for space and run on a space-available basis.

concerts

Sat., Apr. 29, 7:30 p.m., Memory Lane Concert feat. The Stylistics. Harris Stowe State University, 3026 Laclede Ave., 63103. For more information, call (314) 4967751.

May 3 – 4, Jazz St. Louis presents Ben Reece’s Unity Quartet. Jazz at the Bistro, 3536 Washington Ave., 63103. For more information, call (314) 571-6000 or visit www. jazzstl.org.

Fri., May 5, 8 p.m., EXMW (East By Midwest) starring RE-ACK. ReAck teams up with artists from STL, Chicago, New Jersey and New York. 2720 Cherokee St., 63118. For more information, call (314) 442-8749.

Fri., May 5, 8 p.m., The Pageant presents Trey Songz: Tremaine the Tour. 6161 Delmar Blvd., 63112. For more information, call (314) 726-6161 or visit www. ticketmaster.com.

Fri., May 12, 8:30 p.m., The Sheldon Concert Hall presents George Benson. 3648 Washington Blvd., 63108.

Sun., May 14, 7:30 p.m., Chaifetz Arena presents the Mother’s Day Music Festival feat. Anthony Hamilton, Joe, Tamar Braxton and Raheem Devaughn. 1 S. Compton Ave., 63103. For more information, call (314) 977-5000 or visit www. ticketmaster.com.

Sun., May 14, 8 p.m., Chance The Rapper, Scottrade Center. For more information, visit www.ticketmaster.com.

Wed., May 17, 8 p.m., The Pageant welcomes Travi$ Scott, The Pageant. For more information, visit www. thepageant.com.

Fri., May 19, 7 p.m., Tip

“T.I.” Harris presents the Hustle Gang Tour. T.I. will introduce his new artists including Grand Hustle’s VP Trae Tha Truth, RaRA, Yung Brooke, Tokyo, Jetz and London Jae. Pop’s Concert Venue, 300 Monsanto Ave., Sauget, IL. 62201. For more information, visit www. ticketweb.com.

local gigs

Fri., Apr. 28, 7 p.m., The National Blues Museum presents Howlin’ Fridays Concert Series with Renaissance Band. 615 Washington Ave., 63101. For more information, visit www. nationalbluesmuseumorg.

Fri., Apr. 28, 7:30 p.m., STL Free Jazz Collective. 14th Street Artist Community 2701 N. 14th St., 63107. For more information, visit www. stlfreejazz.com.

Apr. 28 – 29, Lumiere Place presents Fabulous Motown Revue. 999 N. 2nd St., 63102. For more information, call (314) 881-7777 or visit www. ticketmaster.com.

Sun., Apr. 30, 4 p.m., Soulful Sundays with Renee Smith. National Blues Museum, 615 Washington Ave., 63101.

Sun., Apr. 30, 6 p.m., Entourage Productions presents Smooth Groove Sunday. With performances by Stephanie Ivy, Brittanie Peebles, Christopher Jones, and more. Roaring 20s Complex, 807 N. 2nd St., 63102. For more information, call (314) 814-2393 or visit www.eventbrite.com.

Tues., May 2, 6 p.m., Missouri History Museum presents Twilight Tuesdays: Melvin Turnage Band feat. Tonya Poynter. Picnics are welcome, or enjoy food from some of St. Louis’ best food trucks. 5700 Lindell Blvd., 63112. For more information,

Featured Event

The Pageant presents Trey Songz: Tremaine the Tour. For more information, call (314) 726-6161 or visit www. ticketmaster.com. See CONCERTS for date and time.

visit www.mohistory.org.

Tues., May 2, 6:30 p.m., The Sheldon Concert Hall presents The Lionel Richie Experience: The Retro-spect Band feat. David Graham 3648 Washington Blvd., 63108. For more information, call (314) 533-9900 or visit www.thesheldon.org.

Tues., May 9, 6 p.m., Missouri History Museum presents Twilight Tuesdays: Dirty Muggs. 5700 Lindell Blvd., 63112.

May 9, 7:15 p.m., The Bach Society of St. Louis presents Bach at the Bistro, Ferring Jazz Bistro, 3536 Washington Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63103. For tickets, or more information, call 314-652- BACH or visit

BACHSOCIETY.ORG. special events

Thur., Apr. 27, 8 p.m., Hope Happens invites you to the 13th Annual Evening of Hope feat. Brian Owens. Sheldon Concert Hall, 3648 Washington Blvd., 63108. For more information, call (314) 725-3888 or visit ww.hopehappens.org.

Fri., Apr. 28, 7:30 p.m., STL Free Jazz Collective. 14th Street Artist Community 2701 N. 14th St., 63107. For more information, visit www. stlfreejazz.com.

Fri., Apr. 28, 11 a.m.,

The Sheldon Concert Hall welcomes George Benson. See CONCERTS for additional details.

St. Louis American Foundation’s 17th Annual Salute To Excellence in Healthcare, Frontenac Hilton. For more information, call (314) 533-8000 or visit www. stlamerican.com.

Fri., Apr. 28, Feast Magazine presents Taste & Toast. Enjoy free pours from the region’s best wineries and food samples from some of the area’s best restaurants, as well as live music. Moulin, 2017 Chouteau Ave., 63103. For more information, visit www.eventbrite.com.

Sat., Apr. 29, 10 a.m., Jazz/ Blues Brunch And Silent Auction. Double Tree Hotel, 1973 Craigshire Rd., 63146. For more information, call (314) 313-5609 or visit www. stlouiscelebrityceniors.org.

Sat., Apr. 29, 1 p.m., Ferguson Block Party. Join Starbucks, Natalie’s Cakes and More, plus other local businesses for a block party, celebrating with entertainment, food, coffee and more. 10776 W Florissant Ave., 63135. For more information, call (206) 664-8624 or visit www. starbucks.com.

Sat., Apr. 29, 6 p.m., Angels at Mardi Gras Dinner & Auction. Live and silent auctions, a jewelry raffle, and many more surprises. Proceeds will support Guardian Angel’s childcare, emergency assistance and self-sufficiency programs. Sheraton Westport, 191 West Port Plaza, 63146. For more information, call (314) 231-3188 or visit www. gasatl.org.

Sat., Apr. 29, 7 p.m., Pazazz Performers hosts the Seventh Annual Drea’s Dream Gala. Come early to browse our silent auction, wine pull and more. Drea’s Dream, a dance therapy and expressive movement program for children with cancer and special needs. Edison Theatre, Washington University, 6465 Forsyth Blvd., 63105. For more information, visit www. pazazzperformers.com.

Sat., Apr. 29, 8 p.m., Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., Alpha Upsilon Sigma Chapter invites you to the 10th Annual Black Out Party. Collinsville Firemen Hall, 9510 Collinsville Rd., Collinsville, IL. 62234. For more information, visit www. facebook.com.

Sat., May 6, 6 p.m., Central Institute for the Deaf’s Annual Gala: CID OUT LOUD. Cocktail reception and silent auction followed by dinner, live auction and dancing. Guests are invited to “dress loudly.” The RitzCarlton, 100 Carondelet Plaza, 63105. For more information, call (314) 977-0224 or visit www.cid.edu. Sun., May 7, 1 p.m., Stray

Rescue’s 12th Annual Spring for Strays. Kick off the spring season with an afternoon of fun, food and drink specials, silent and live auctions, and much more. Moonrise Hotel, 6177 Delmar Blvd., 63112. For more information, call (314) 771-6121 or visit www. give2gether.org/projects.

May 19 – 21, Cirque Italia. A production that combines acrobatics, dance, contortion, and even high-performance BMX and roller-skating. 1155 Saint Louis Galleria, 63117. For more information, visit www.cirqueitalia.com.

Sat., May 20, 12 p.m., 9th Annual Taste of Maplewood Street Festival. Featuring SuperJam and the best flavors of Maplewood. 2700 Sutton Blvd., 63143. For more information, visit www. midcountychamber.org

Sat., May 20, 5 p.m., Ferguson Twilight Run 2017. Runners and walkers of all ages and fitness levels can participate in a USATF certified course. Post-race festivities include a concert, vendors, and specials at local restaurants. For more information, visit www. fergtwilightrun.com.

Sun., May 21, 1 p.m., 107th Annual Annie Malone May Day Parade & Festival. A family-oriented area time with bounce houses, petting zoos, face painting and more. There are trucks and booths that provide a variety of food, community information, and entertainment. Downtown St. Louis. For more information, call (314) 531-0120 or visit www.anniemalone.com.

Thur., May 25, 7:30 p.m., The Art of African Fashion - A Celebration of Clothing, Cloth and Culture. A Fusion of fashion, art, history and culture celebrating local black artist, designers, retailers, restaurants and more. The Bentil’s Jah’z Art Gallery, 5561 Enright Ave., 63109. For more information, call (314) 603-4690 or visit www.Urban. Africa.com.

May 26 – 29, 2017 U.S. Army St. Louis Ribfest. A BBQ celebration for Memorial Day weekend to honor our veterans with live music, vendors, food, and more. JanuaryWabash Memorial Park, 501 N Florissant Rd., 63135. For more information, visit www. thestlouisribfest.com.

literary

Sun., Apr. 30, 7:30 p.m., Poetic Justice Open Mic feat. Tebe Zalango. 2720 Cherokee St., 63118. For more information, visit www. facebook.com.

Mon., May 1, 7 p.m., Left Bank Books hosts author Edward McPherson, author of The History of the Future Examine American places and the space between history, experience, and myth including private streets, racism, and the St. Louis World’s Fair. 399 N. Euclid Ave., 63108. For more information, call (314) 3676731 or visit www.left-bank. com.

Tues., May 2, 7 p.m., Left Bank Books hosts author James Forman, Jr., author of Locking Up Our Own: Crime and Punishment in Black America. 399 N. Euclid Ave., 63108. For more information, call (314) 367-6731 or visit www.left-bank.com.

May 4 – 7, Annual Greater St. Louis Book Fair Featuring millions of books spanning 150 categories with all proceeds going to area literacy and education programs. Queeny Park, 550 Weidman Blvd., 63011. For more information, call (314) 993-1995.

Tues., May 16, 7 p.m., St. Louis County Library hosts author Leigh Montville author of Sting Like a Bee: Muhammad Ali vs. the United States of America, 19661971. An insightful portrait of Muhammad Ali and the key moments in his life with primary focus on his 1966 refusal, after being drafted, to

join the military for religious and conscientious reasons. Library Headquarters, 1640 S. Lindbergh Blvd., 63131. For more information, call (314) 994-3300 or visit www.slcl. org.

art

Through May 15, 6 p.m., Painting textures in watercolor, Art Unleashed, 13379 Olive, Chesterfield. For more information, contact www.artunleashed.org or call (314) 628-1024.

Through May 14, COCA presents Harlem Renaissance: Contemporary Response. Exhibition featuring works by emerging or young artists inspired by artists associated with the Harlem Renaissance. 524 Trinity Ave., 63130. For more information, call (314) 725-6555 or visit www.cocastl. org.

Through May 20, Gallery

210 and Kranzberg Art Center present Taking it to the Streets: Grand Center. The artists featured in the exhibit address the stubborn problems of race, social injustice, and the politics of gender and sexuality using a wide variety of media. 501 N. Grand Blvd., 63103. For more information, visit www. kranzbergartscenter.org.

Green Door art gallery’s exhibit “Florals and Botanicals” is hosting a reception Friday, May 12 from 5 - 9 PM featuring Julie Bell, Pam Bohling, Susan Greene, Ellen Klamon, Dimitrina Kutriansky, Jane Miles and the winners of the Confluence online competition plus over 30 more artists including glass, jewelry, wood, textiles and all kinds of painting. These will be available from May 5 thru June 28, 2016. 21 N. Gore Ave, Webster Groves MO 63119, www. Greendoorartgallery.com 314402-1959.

lectures and workshops

Sat., Apr. 29, 9 a.m., Financial Freedom Seminar. This workshop will cover sound tax minimization strategies, debt elimination game planning, asset accumulation and credit restoration. Keller Williams Realty Office, 10936 Manchester Ave., 63122. For more information, visit www.eventbrite.com

Fri., Apr. 28, 7:30 p.m., Lindenwood University Plaster School of Business presents Ban the Box Symposium. The session will address initiatives and related opportunities for policy research and guidance for those seeking to better understand ‘ban the box’ legislation in Missouri. 209 S. Kingshighway, 63301. For more information, call (636) 627-2915 or visit www. lindenwood.edu.

Sat., Apr. 29, 9 a.m.,

Financial Freedom Seminar.

This workshop will cover sound tax minimization strategies, debt elimination game planning, asset accumulation and credit restoration. Keller Williams Realty Office, 10936 Manchester Ave., 63122. For more information, visit www.eventbrite.com.

Wed., May 3, 9 a.m., SLATE presents The Basics of Writing a Business Plan

You will learn key elements of a business plan including writing style, content, business plan as management tool, and more. 1520 Market St., 63103. For more information, call (314) 657-3768 or visit www. missouribusiness.net.

Thur., May 11, 6:30 p.m., Missouri History Museum presents Women of St. Louis Civil Rights. This panel program will explore the role women have played, and continue to play, in activist movements, and look at

May 12 – 19, Upstream Theater presents A Human Being Died That Night. During the 1990s, psychologist Pumla Gobodo-Madikizela interviewed Eugene de Kock, commanding officer of the South African government’s death squad, as part of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission that followed apartheid. Kranzberg Atrs Center, 501 N. Grand Blvd., 63103. For more information, visit www. kranzbergartsfoundation.org.

health

Sat., Apr. 29, 8:30 a.m., 2017 St. Louis Kidney Walk. Featuring Blackdog and the Rainmakers. St. Louis University, 3338 Olive St., 63103. For more information or to register, visit www. donate.kidney.org.

women who have directed their time, energy, and talents toward change in St. Louis. 5700 Lindell Blvd., 63112. For more information, visit www. mohistory.org.

Thur., May 18, 7:30 p.m., StarTalk Live with Neil deGrasse Tyson. Peabody Opera House, 1400 Market St., 63103. For more information, visit www.ticketmaster.com.

theatre

Apr. 21 – 30, UMSL Theatre and Cinema Arts presents My Country: A Devised Work. Delve into how we view our country as citizens of different races, creeds, religions, etc. 501 N. Grand Blvd., 63103. For more information, visit www.kranzbergartscenter.org.

Through May 7, The Fox presents The Lion King. The Fabulous Fox Theatre. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com or call (314) 5341111.

Sat., Apr. 29, 12 p.m., Brittany Hill presents BackTrap Yoga. A live DJ spins eclectic mixes guiding you through different shapes, linking them with breath. 2720 Cherokee St., 63118. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com

Sun., Apr. 30, 12 p.m., Gateway Classic Cars and Kaskaskia Corvette Club present the Cruise for St. Judes Car Show. We will have live music with food and drinks. The Weingarten, 1780 IL – 15, Belleville, IL. 62221. For more information, call (618) 589-9952 or visit www. fundraising.stjude.org.

Sat., May 6, 9 a.m., Gateway Hemophilia Association presents Hemophilia Walk/5K. Forest Park, 1 Government Dr., 63110. For more information, call (314) 482-5973 or visit www.hemophiliawalk. donordrive.com.

Sat., May 6, 9 a.m., St. Louis HELP Medical Equipment Donation Drive. We accept tax-deductible

donations of manual and power wheelchairs, shower chairs, canes/crutches/walkers, grab bars, lift chairs, and more. For more information, call (314) 567-4700 or visit www.stlhelp. org.

Sat., May 6, 12:30 p.m., Slaying Dragons’ Young Actors Theatre presents Losing Hope. A play focusing on depression and suicide within our youth. A mental health expert will do a Q & A following the performance. 829 N. Hanley, 63130. For more information, call (314) 596-1219 or visit www. slayingdragons.org.

Fri., May 11, 8 a.m., Project AWARE Youth Mental Health First Aid Training. Behavioral Health Response, 12647 Olive Blvd., Ste. 200, 63141. For more information or to register, call (314) 628-6229 or visit www.bhrstl.org.

May 15 – July 9, Small Business Majority’s Missouri Healthy Business Healthy Community Workplace Wellness Challenge, FREE communitybased competition where small businesses in southwest Missouri will compete against businesses in the St. Louis region to win special prizes. Network, get healthy and have fun. Visit http:// smallbusinessportal.org/ benefits/wellness or call 314718-0377 to register.

Sat., Apr. 29, 6 p.m., Kennerly Temple Church of God in Christ invites you to One Night with the King... the Worship Experience. See Evangelist Gail Richardson in concert. 4307 Kennerly Ave., 63113. For more information, call (314) 535-0555.

Sun., Apr. 30, 3 pm., First Missionary Baptist Church of Kinloch (in Black Jack) Fifth Sunday Men’s Program, First Missionary Baptist Church of Kinloch, 4400 Parker Rd, Black Jack, MO 63033.

Missouri History Museum presents Twilight Tuesdays: Dirty Muggs. For more information, see LOCAL GIGS.

Photo by Ted Soqui/Corbis via Getty Images

Rioters overturn a parking attendant booth at the LAPD Parker Center in downtown Los Angeles during the 1992 riots that swept the city for days after three of four police oficers accused of the 1991 beating of Rodney King were cleared of all charges. The fourth oficer was charged with use of excessive force.

story especially compelling.

Given the countless black lives lost at the hands of law enforcement, his words from 1965 still ring true today.

“LA 92” premieres this Sunday, April 30 on the National Geographic Channel, but St. Louis audiences will have the opportunity to see an advance screening of the film at a theatre on Saturday, April 28. The screening is free, but RSVP is required.

This region can relate all too well with the subject matter of “LA 92.” Though smaller in scale and far less violent, local viewers will be reminded of the months of unrest they saw unfold as a result of the police killing of Michael Brown Jr. and the non-indictment of thenFerguson Police Officer Darren Wilson.

The public cries of being targeted for the color of their skin, being abused by law

enforcement by officers who face no consequences for their actions and the “us versus them” mentality between people of color and the police often spoken of during protests in Ferguson sounded straight out of Los Angeles in 1992 –and 1965.

But “LA 92” gives graphic, haunting insight as far as the level of crisis for the events leading to that tragic moment and the tipping point itself.

Rodney King is beaten mercilessly. Less than two weeks later, 15-year-old Latasha Harlins (who was born in East St. Louis) is fatally shot when a Korean shop owner wrongfully assumed she was attempting to steal a bottle of orange juice. Though convicted of voluntary manslaughter, the store owner was sentenced to community service and a fine. Both videos – and footage from the trials – are included in the film.

U.S. Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Los Angeles), a native of Kinloch, is at the heart of it all. She calls out the justice system

for lack of consequences for the offenders. She also urges for calm and order during the thick of the unrest.

“LA 92” gives the ugly truth of the riots, but from several vantage points. Even as communities come together to heal, the viewer is left with the feeling that until the systems are dismantled that create the opportunity for tragedies like those of Rodney King and Latasha Harlins to occur, history is doomed to repeat itself.

The film ends just as it begins, with footage from the Watts riot that prophesize what’s to come in the next 30 years – and 25 years after that.

The St. Louis screening of “LA 92” will take place 3 p.m. Saturday, April 29. The screening is free to the public, but an RSVP is required. The screening location will be disclosed upon RSVP confirmation. Those interested in attending can RSVP at LA92Stlouis.eventbrite.com.

FREE COMMUNITY CONCERT

“The Ties That Bind” features a young man from the present being transported to the past on a sacred journey to give him insight on the complex history of African Americans.

TIES

Continued from C1

too often young people separate their present day struggle from the past – and don’t feel that it is connected to their struggle or that we are embracing or understanding as far as what they are going through.”

He said that it’s not their fault that young people aren’t aware of their history.

“Part of the disconnect is that we haven’t been the best guides as far as helping them navigate through the detours of life,” Williams said.

Led by ancestors, the young man is taken on a “sacred journey.” “Our history is not rooted in slavery,” Williams said. “We come from kings and queens.”

While he starts from the beginning, Williams includes the difficult and painful elements.

“Any people that survive the Middle Passage and slavery –that’s a mighty strong people,” said Williams. “My thing is educating people – and not just African Americans – about the beautiful, powerful legacy that we have and how we’ve contributed to this fabric we

SLEIGHT

Continued from C1

be vulnerable and conflicted. I related to the family aspect most and I really just tried to cling on to that and let the rest be what it was.”

At only 20 years old, Latimore has some impressive credits as a singer, dancer and actor. He most recently starred alongside Will Smith in “Collateral Beauty.”

“Sometimes I feel like I’ve been doing this for so long, because I started so young,” Latimore said. “I just go one project at a time and I’m like,

call American history.”

The twist is that this young man goes back in time with a present-day mindset.

“We don’t take him back and say, ‘This is history.’

We say, ‘How would you function and survive in those real situations with your 2017 mentality?’” Williams said. “You often hear the young people say, ‘Oh no, there is no way I would do that.’

But people did what they did so that we as a people could survive. This show is about addressing things that systemically show up and teaching our young people how to navigate.”

The show will also give audiences an idea of the activism that took place in order for them to enjoy the freedoms they have become accustomed to in 2017.

Williams uses his former teacher Katherine Dunham to illustrate the fight to end segregation.

“Ten years before Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on that bus, Katherine Dunham stood before an audience in Louisville, Kentucky in 1944 and told them, ‘Until people who look like me can sit next to people who look like you in this theater, we will not be

‘Okay, God, what’s next? What’s after this?”

Latimore just released his debut album “Connection” in December and will be among the ensemble in the upcoming film “Detroit” that includes John Boyega, Anthony Mackie and Laz Alonso. He’s currently on location filming a television series, “The Chi,” produced by Common.

“It’s sort of a day in the life of a lot of Chicago families,” Latimore said about the 10-episode series set to air on Showtime. “This is probably one of my edgiest roles, and I’m excited to offer this other side of where I can go on screen.”

performing here,’” Williams said.

Insight and inspiration were the main goal as he was creating “Ties That Bind.”

“I’m impassioned about legacy and history – and I’m bold enough to not look at my history with shame,” Williams said. “Was it painful? Yes. But we’ve come through it, and that’s a testament to who we are as a people.” He hopes that his student performers and young people are encouraged to find strength and courage in their history – and that the elders see a reflection of themselves and the promise that lies within the next generation.

“Their struggle is real – and it is not separate from ours,” Williams said. “I want to show the young generation that they sit at the feet and stand on the shoulders of some mighty powerful people.”

The Innervision Dance Theatre production of “The Ties That Bind” will take place on Saturday, May 6 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, May 7 at 3 p.m. at The Sun Theater (3625 Grandel Square, St. Louis, MO 63108). For tickets, visit https:/www.eventbrite.com/e/ the-ties-that-bind-tickets32969383313?aff=es2.

In the meantime, he’s thrilled about having an alternative angle to the traditional “boy in the ‘hood” film format.

“I want people to have an open mind with this movie,” Latimore said. “I think it’s a great time for creativity, and people want to see something not so traditional – people can push the envelope and go outside the box as far as the standard movie. I’m excited for people to see it, and I can’t wait until Friday.” Sleight opens in theatres nationwide on Friday, April 28. The film is rated R with a run time of 90 minutes.

Photo by Wiley Price

Celebrations

Birthdays

The Big 10! Happy 10th Birthday to JaHaad “JJ” on May 3. We love you! Mom, Dad and family

Sending birthday wishes and prayers to Crystal Snider on April 30! Enjoy your day! Much love from your family.

Who’s Who Honors

another 50th.

Reunions

Beaumont Class of 1967, if you have not received a letter or e-mail, call 314-533-6087 or Beaumontclassof67@ sbcglobal.net with your contact information. Several activities are planned for the week of June 6-11, 2017. Meet & greet on 6-9-17, banquet on 6-10-17, church services 6-11-17 at Greater Mt. Carmel and a brunch after services. Our scheduled meetings are 4-15-17 and 5-20-17 at the Normandy Library at 1:30 p.m.

Beaumont Alumni Class of 1968 “Cowboys to Girls Western Dance” on Saturday, April 29, 2017, 8:00p.m.-1:00 a.m. at Machinists Hall, 12365 St Charles Rock Rd. Prizes for Best Dressed Cowboy and Cowgirl. BYOB Advance $12.00, Door $15.00 Contact for info 314-869-8312.

Beaumont High School

Class of 1972 is celebrating 45th class reunion August 11 -13 2017. Activities have been planned for a fun illed weekend you don’t want to miss. Please direct all inquiries and registration request to Sharon Webb Steele at (314) 757-2799 or Linda Howard at (314) 397-5570. You may also use Facebook , BHS72 Reunion Committee.

Beaumont High School, Class of 1978 will celebrate its 40-year reunion in 2018. For further information, please contact: Marietta Shegog Shelby, 314-799-5296, madeshe@sbcglobal.net.

Cleveland High School is hosting a reunion for all attending 1980-1984 on August 19, 2017 at Catering To You Banquet Center (12775 New Halls Ferry Rd., Florissant, MO 63033) For information, please contact Babette Perkins-Anderson at 314-345-0939.

East St. Louis Lincoln Sr. High Class of 1967 celebrates its 50th Class Reunion, June 23-25, 2017 at The Renaissance Hotel, 9601 Natural Bridge Road, St. Louis, MO. with a Friday night meet & greet, picnic cruise on the Becky

Thatcher and banquet with live entertainment. Please contact Deborah Davis Holmes at deehom50@aol.com or call 314-280-3711 for more information.

Hadley Tech Classes of 1962-1963 are having their 55th year reunion on October 13-15, 2017 at the St. Louis Airport Marriott. For more information, please contact Hellon (Merritt) Jefferson at 314-307-3681, Ora (Scott) Roberts at 314-222-3662, Wilhelmina (Gibson) Baker at 314-630-9647, Pearl (Tillman) Holden 314-685-0466 or Virdell (Robinson) Stennis at 314-773-8177.

Mr. Eldridge Bryant, Sr. is hosting a reunion for his students at Lafayette and Monroe Elementary Schools in SLPS from 1999-2000 For more information, please contact him at: 314-489-0532 or eldridgbrya@sbcglobal.net.

O’Fallon Technical High School Class of 1967, will be celebrating its 50th reunion on September 15-17, 2017. If you have not received a letter or e-mail, please call 314630-8452 with your contact information, and a committee member will contact you. Save the date, there will not be

Arissa Calvert of St. Louis was named to Who’s Who at the University of Central Missouri for her academic achievement as well as involvement in campus organizations. Arissa will graduate from UCM in May 2017 with a degree in health studies. She is a 2012 graduate of Metro Academic and Classical High School.

Soldan High School Class of 1967 will be holding its 50th class reunion September 29-30, 2017. For additional information, please contact Nona Binion Simpkins at 314361-3799or Melvia Forniss at 314-725-8103.

Soldan High School Class of 1977 celebrating its 40-year reunion on Friday June 2-4, 2017 at the Crown Plaza Hotel located at 11228 Lone Eagle Dr. in Bridgeton, MO. For further information, please contact Debbie Marshall at 314-831-8831.

Soldan is having its 12th AllClass Alumni Picnic August 12, 2017 at Tiemeyer Park,

3311 Ashby Rd., St. Ann, MO 63074 from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. The picnic is free. Bring your own basket or grill out there. Food truck will be on site. T-Shirts will be sold for $15.00. You have until August 6, 2017, to get your grad. year put on the sleeve. For more information, call (314) 413-9088.

Sumner Class of 1982 will have its 35-year reunion August 3-6, 2017 at TanTar-A resort in the Lake of the Ozarks. We are inviting all alumni, friends and families to join us. For more information, please contact Lovey Davis at 314-435-8055, Michelle Elgin at 314-452-1275 or Jonathan Butler at 314-437-9758 for more information or to make a reservation.

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

Reunion notices are free of charge and based on space availability. We prefer that notices be emailed to us! However, notices may also be sent by mail to: Kate Daniel, 2315 Pine St., St. Louis, MO 63103

Deadline is 10 a.m. on Friday. If you’d like your class to be featured in a reunion profile, email or mail photos to us. Our email address is: reunions@ stlamerican.com

Chad Kish, the athletics and activities director at McCluer High School, has become a Certified Athletic Administrator by the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association. He has been McCluer’s athletic and activities director since 2014. In this position, he supervises and supports the physical education department, athletic coaches, activity sponsors, and students at McCluer.

Swag Snap of the Week

The Daley show. Big laughs and blue-eyed soul were the recurring theme of the weekend. I can’t think of a weekend where I’ve laughed so much and saw some general population singers slay the stage with range and notes straight from my R&B greatest hits iPod playlist. I guess we can go ahead and pop it off. Things started and ended at the Ready Room for me. First up was Thursday night for Leela James with special guest Daley. Now y’all know I don’t necessarily see it for Leela’s vocals, but most of the time she has good enough stage presence for me to tolerate her. Daley skews neo-soul, so he’s basically underground to black and white audiences. But if he decided to go either way, Sam Smith and/or Robin Thicke would be in the unemployment line. He became locked in for life as far as my fandom goes when he did JUSTICE to Prince with a tribute performance of “Adore.” We learned the hard way how tough it is to cover Prince, thanks to all of the tragic tributes. Bilal was the only one to get it right if you ask me. But back to the show…I got every ounce of life from Daley, as I knew I would. Leela James traded in her big hair for some big “Poetic Justice” braids. People thought her show was cute. Good for them. What? Anybody who was there knows that Daley snatched that concert right from under Leela. Friday night funny. I howled for dear life for the third year in a row (I think it’s year three) when I hit up the Chaifetz Arena for the St. Louis stop of the Festival of Laughs Tour. There was the same host (Rickey Smiley) and headliner (Mike Epps) and I can’t say that I was the least bit mad about it. Last year Mike was off, but he got his mojo back for the 2017. And y’all insist on learning the hard way that Rickey Smiley does not like his picture taken. I thought calling a man “ladylike” for wanting to capture the moment was more than a bit much, but he clearly hates photos when they aren’t on his terms – and that’s just that. He regrouped fabulously, and kept the cackles coming. I’m so glad Bruce Bruce cut those plaits off. And that Felipe Esparza fellow was pretty funny too. I’m so glad Mike got through that personal drama of his divorce and all of that – and he didn’t miss a beat working it into his act….which was guaranteed new material.

The laugh-ter party. My face was still hurting when I headed over to Mood to catch Mike Epps’ official after-party. I just knew that Mood would be at capacity of folks salivating at the thought of a Day-Day walking through the door. But when I walked in, I was like, “wait a minute, where is everybody?” It was after 11:30 after Mike Epps got done giving the folks gags at the Chaifetz as the Festival of Laughs headliner, so folks really took their time getting to the after-party, which was still on the light side for a celebrity of his stature, if I’m keeping it real. It just made me feel like his fan base has grown up to the point where a good laugh wears them out and they are ready to hit the house! For those of you who opted to head home, Mike Epps was on one in the best way possible. He quietly gave a good old “jonin’” session as him and Dre’Co hyped the crowd up. The crowd got lit – because you know the folks in St. Louis love a good laugh. Unlike the folks who do a cute little wave a walk-through and whisk off to collect their coins which Mike has been guilty of in the past once or twice, Mike got comfortable on that microphone. He low key gave a mini-show as he drove the folks. Almost as soon as Mike hit it, comedian DeRay Davis popped in after his set at Helium. I’m assuming he was hoping to catch Mike, because he didn’t stay very long. He was cool as all get out for the few minutes he was in the building though.

Only two or three for Tommie. I headed out the door right after DeRay to catch Tommie from “Love and Hip Hop.” In hindsight, I should have done what everyone else did…not bother. The poor thing had one of the lightest crowds I’ve seen from an alleged celebrity. Based on the last few visits, it looks like the gravy train of club appearances might be finally drying up for these reality television vixens. Hey, they had a solid run.

Laugh Lounge open for business. Speaking of funny, my boy Jessie Taylor has his own spot now. His Laugh Lounge is located in the OG Knockouts (a.k.a. the one at 11208 West Florissant) and for his grand opening festivities he had the folks howling all weekend with performances by himself, Marcus Combs and Tyler Craig. Jessie has been giving us access to some of the most hilarious folks in the standup game for years, so y’all better support him as he ventures out with his own club. I will be sure to keep y’all posted on the front end as far as who he has coming through.

Homage to Prince at Patois. Eatery-turned-nightclub-turned eatery Patois paid tribute to Prince by having crooner Justin Hoskin and his band The Movie play a set of his classics to commemorate the anniversary of The Purple One’s passing Saturday night. Justin threw down so tough that folks got in their feelings – especially the purple priestess who hopped up like she had the Holy Ghost when they performed “Purple Rain.”

Mariah plus Teena equals Morgan. I know most of y’all won’t be checking for it, so I will keep it brief. But, I wouldn’t truly be hipping you to the best of the entertainment and nightlife from the week if I didn’t at least show a few sentences of love to Teena Marie 2.0 a.k.a. Morgan James. She actually played Lady T in the Broadway production of “Motown The Musical.” Anyone who stopped by the Ready Room Tuesday night would co-sign that she’s got the chops to almost fill Teena’s shoes – and just about anybody else she desires. When she did a taste of Mariah Carey’s “Emotions,” I’m sure if MiMi herself had heard it; she would have been like

“I wish I could still do that!”

Trina and Eddie kept things cool in VIP Friday night @ Mood

The lovely LaLa got a chance to catch a pic with Comedian DeRay Davis when he stopped through Mood Friday night

Tia, Denise, Leah and Bonnie were among the beautiful ones @ Mood for Lifestyle Saturdays

Soul singer Leela James was gracious enough to sign his vinyl copy of her album and snap a pic with Duan Thursday night @ The Ready Room

Rochelle, Kimberly, Laura and Jasmine patiently waited for Mike Epps to pop up @ Mood following the Festival of Laughs Comedy Tour Friday night

Ed and Michelle made a date night of The Festival of Laughs Friday night @ Chaifetz Arena

Bria and Carla came out for Lifestyle Saturdays @ Mood

Marietta and Orlando were grinning ear to ear thanks to the abundance of funny @ The Festival of Laughs Friday night @ Chaifetz Arena

Raphael of the Umbrella Group and funnyman Mike Epps, who stopped through Mood for his official Festival of Laughs after party Friday night

Victoria and Mel of the Hot 104.1 FM family Friday night @ Mood

Daylen Dean and Kristen Brooks got a chance to chop it up with comedian Mike Epps after headlining set for the Festival of Laughs Friday night at Chaifetz Arena. The show was hosted by Rickey Smiley and featured Bruce Bruce and Felipe Esparza.

Photos by John Scott

KINDERGARTEN

TEACHER AND SCIENCE 4-8 TEACHER

Christ Light of the Nations School Pre K -8 in north county has openings for a Kindergarten teacher and Science 4-8 teacher. Certiication required. Please send resume to: maryssnd04@gmail.com

MUSEUM EDUCATOR

he Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis seeks a Museum Educator to be the primary facilitator of exhibition tours and workshops for on-site school visits, tour groups, and the public. he Museum Educator is also the lead instructor for—and manages all aspects of—CAM’s Immersive Learning programs for ages 9–18: New Art in the Neighborhood, Teen Museum Studies, LEAP Middle School Intensive, and Summer Art Camps. S/he is responsible for developing and implementing studio art and career-based curriculum, coordinating with teaching and visiting artists, and documenting, evaluating, and reporting on each of these programs. Other duties include conducting staf tour training for seasonal exhibitions, coordinating with university and lifelong learning groups, and assisting with CAM’s Youth & Family programs, including Stroller Tours, Morning Play Dates, and Family Days. For more info and to apply, please visit camstl.org/jobs.

FIREFIGHTER/PARAMEDIC

Must possess MO State EMT-P

St. Louis County Fire Academy Apply by 4:00 PM 05/12/17 at 9911 Clayton Road. EOE. www.cityoladue-mo.gov for

CASE ASSISTANT

Greensfelder, Hemker & Gale, P.C. has an opening for a full-time Case Assistant to join our Asbestos team in our St. Louis oice. his position would include: monitoring asbestos ilings, organizing and saving electronically ilings, dispersing pertinent ilings to team members, entering and maintaining information in an Access database, electronically eiling various pleadings in various Missouri and Illinois jurisdictions and other administrative duties. Qualiied applicants will be detail oriented, have strong computer skills and have at least 1 year of litigation experience or an internship in a litigation position. his position presents an opportunity for growth with the Firm’s potential future paralegal needs. Apply online at www.greensfelder.com or at 10 S. Broadway, Ste 2000, St. Louis, MO 63102. EOE

HOUSING ATTORNEY POSITION

Legal Services of Eastern Missouri, Inc. (LSEM), a non-proit law irm that provides free legal assistance to people living with low income/low opportunity, in 21 eastern Missouri counties, seeks an attorney to work in its Housing Program and the Youth and Family Advocacy Project. he position is located in LSEM’s St. Louis oice. For more information regarding the position and the application process please visit www.lsem.org. his position closes May 14, 2017.

Heavy Equipment Diesel Mechanic

Professionally skilled diesel mechanic is needed in Chattanooga, Tn. You will be working with heavy equipment including but not limited to: hoist and hydraulic cranes, loaders, forklits, and towboats. Experience with these various equipment types not required but is a plus. Experience with Cummins engines is a plus. We manage a shipyard, barge oloading/ loading facilities, and operate several towboats. You will be expected preform regular and preventative maintenance duties, diagnostics, troubleshooting, and emergency repairs. We ofer health and dental insurance and a proit sharing plan.

CHIEF PRICING ACTUARY

at Safety National

Responsible for developing and maintaining pricing standards and models. Provide leadership of pricing team to support transactional pricing for all of Safety National’s products.

NORTHWOODS POLICE DEPARTMENT is now accepting applications. Applications can be obtained at 4608 Oakridge Blvd., Northwoods, MO 63121. Applicants must be P.O.S.T. Certiied to apply for this position.

SPRING HIRING FAIR

Graduating Soon? New Graduate? Seasoned Teaching Professional?

he YWCA Head Start Educational Program is looking for all levels of teachers for its Early Childhood Education Program. We are hosting our Spring Job Fair on: Saturday, May 6, 2017 9:00 am – 12:00 pm YWCA St. Louis Head Start Central Oice 1911 Beltway Dr. St. Louis, MO 63114

Looking for: Teachers Early Head Start Teachers Teacher Assistants Family Outreach Worker

For a complete listing of vacancies, additional information about the positions listed, and to apply, visit our website at www.ywcastlouis.org

ATTORNEYS

he Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) has vacancies for three staf attorneys in its Central Oice in Jeferson City. hese positions primarily comprise an oice practice that provides legal advice and drating (e.g., opinions, contracts, administrative rules, legislation, etc.) work, but the successful applicants will also be expected to handle a limited litigation practice involving contested case hearings before the Administrative Hearing Commission to prosecute violations of federal and state motor carrier and railroad statutes and regulations, as well as environmental and contractor claims.

Requirements include: a Juris Doctor degree and membership in good standing with the Missouri Bar Association. Excellent research, writing and communication skills are preferred.

hese are entry-level positions, which have a starting salary of $48,972/ year, but this salary may be adjusted commensurate with experience. MoDOT also ofers an excellent personal leave, medical and retirement beneits package.

An on-line application with resume and copies of oicial undergraduate and law school transcripts must be submitted by May 12, 2017 at www.modot.org, under “Career Opportunities”.

MoDOT is an equal employment opportunity and airmative action employer.

COORDINATOR

PSA Policy Reporting at Safety National

As a member of a self-directed work team, this position shares responsibility reviewing, analyzing, and reporting policy transactions related to Primary Worker’s Compensation policies, as well as reporting coverage for Commercial Auto vehicles insured by Safety National. To apply, please visit: www.safetynational.com and click on the Careers tab.

MIDDLE SCHOOL SOCIAL STUDIES TEACHER

Marian Middle School, an all-girls, Catholic middle school committed to breaking the cycle of poverty through a life-altering education, is seeking a faith-illed, mission oriented, highly qualiied candidate for the position of 6th-8th grade social studies teacher for the 2017-2018 school year. he ideal candidate will be certiied, with two or more years of experience in instruction and classroom management with urban adolescents. Please send letter of interest and resume to broche@mmsstl.org. Applicants of all racial and ethnic backgrounds encouraged to apply.

Please call Peter or Tom at our shipyard location to set up an interview. 423-942-7000 ACTUARIAL ANALYST AT SAFETY NATIONAL Perform pricing analyses for Loss Portfolio Transfers (LPT) and support pricing initiatives. To apply, please visit: www.safetynational.com and click on the Careers tab.

To apply, please visit: www.safetynational.com and click on the Careers tab.

CHURCH

!

A Professional Organ Player/Accompanist, Piano, Pipe Organ, Teacher, Minister of Music is seeking an open Church Position. All churches of different faiths, Please make Inquiry: 314-652-1107

SENIOR IFRS ACCOUNTANT

at Safety National

Responsible for assisting with the adoption and implementation of International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) and subsequent IFRS reporting. Responsible for working directly with external consultants, designated personnel at Safety National, Reliance Standard Life (“RSL”), Delphi Financial Group (“DFG”) and Tokio Marine. To apply, please visit: www.safetynational. com and click on the Careers tab.

DRUG ANALYSIS TECHNICIAN

Drug Analysis Technician vacancy/ies, Eastern District of Missouri. Generous retirement/beneits package. For additional information including how to apply, see our website at www.moep. uscourts.gov. Vacancy Announcement 2017-04. Equal Opportunity Employer.

LEGAL ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Greensfelder, Hemker & Gale, P.C. has an opening for a full-time Legal Administrative Assistant for our Litigation Practice Group in our St. Louis oice. his is an addition to the department to support our recent growth. We have deined assignments, however, our staf focus on teamwork & supporting each other to better balance workloads. herefore, strong teamwork & communication skills are highly desired. Qualiied applicants will type at least 70 wpm & have excellent attention to detail, grammar, proofreading & customer service skills. At least 2 yrs of litigation exp required. Apply online at www.greensfelder.com or at 10 S. Broadway, Ste 2000, St. Louis, MO 63102. EOE

COORDINATOR

Claims

Technical Support at Safety National Responsible for various administrative tasks related to: processing monthly Auto/General Liability data feeds, assisting in the testing, planning, organizing and documenting of the various sotware applications, re-engineering projects, IMS and V2 applications, continually aiding in the assessment and improvement of all Claim system support including testing and training end users. To apply, please visit: www.safetynational. com and click on the Careers tab.

DEPARTMENT ASSOCIATE

Webster University has an opening for a Department Associate in Confucius Institute. Please apply online at http:// webster.peopleadmin.com/postings/2348 No phone calls please. Webster University provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, national origin, ethnicity, age, protected veteran or disabled status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

PROJECT CONNECT PROJECT MANAGER

St. Louis Development Corporation has an opening for a Major Project Manager – Project Connect. he full position description and application process can be found online at www.stlouis-mo. gov/sldc select “Careers at SLDC.”

St. Louis Development Corporation values a diverse workforce and is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, disability, sex or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, veteran’s status or marital status.

COMPUTER OPERATOR

REJIS is currently seeking a Computer Operator to provide basic PC troubleshooting, hardware/sotware knowledge and server skills. Excellent customer service skills.

To see our beneits or apply for this or other jobs, please visit:www.rejis.org

EOE/Minorities/Females/Vet/Disabled/ Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity

he REJIS Commission has developed an EEOP Utilization Report as required by the United States Department of Justice. It is available for review on our website atrejis.org/employment.

ASSEMBLY

CAMPUS PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICER

Maryville University is seeking a culturally aware public safety oicer for the 7 am – 3 pm, Friday through Tuesday shit to maintain a safe and secure living and working environment on a diverse and multicultural campus. Public Safety Oicers manage all efective patrol, enforcement, and community services during the assigned shit. he oicer will respond to service calls requiring excellent customer service focused to serve the diverse and multicultural campus population of faculty, staf, students, and visitors.

Minimum Qualiications:

• U.S. citizen or permanent resident as required to obtain private security oicer license.

• Must be at least 21 years of age.

• Must possess and maintain an armed private security oicer license under the guidelines of the St. Louis County Police Department.

• Associate’s degree from an accredited university.

• Successful completion of a psychological screening, and drug screening upon hire and throughout employment.

• Ability to obtain certiication to carry OC spray, ASP baton and handcufs.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

• Ability to multi-task and set priorities.

• Strong human relations skills with the ability to interact positively with a diverse University population.

• Ability to develop and implement strong problem solving techniques.

• Knowledge of basic irst aid, CPR and AED.

• Ability to work with others in a team atmosphere.

• Good organizational and management skills.

• Ability to work weekends and nights to include overnight and holidays. Preferred Qualiications:

• Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, political science or related ield.

• Cultural competency and/or sensitivity knowledge and training.

Physical Demands: Respond to any crisis that may occur on campus, including severe weather, ire, medical emergencies, hazardous material incidents, chemical spill/accidents. Incidents may occur in adverse weather, high heat, cold temperatures, snow, rain, earthquakes, etc.

Work Hours: Friday through Tuesday, 7 am – 3 pm. Wednesdays and hursdays of.

Special Instructions to Applicant:

An ofer of employment is contingent upon successful completion of psychological, drug, and background screenings. To Apply: http://jobs.maryville.edu/postings/1747

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Forest Park Forever is seeking an Administrative Assistant in our Land Management division. Please visit our website at: www.forestparkforever.org for details and to apply on-line. Forest Park Forever is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Responsible for the management of assumed and ceded reinsurance accounting and reporting, ensuring that all related functions are completed and reported accurately and in a timely and eicient manner. To apply, please visit: www.safetyna-

CITY CLERK

City of Greendale seeks a City Clerk. If interested, please visit our website: www.greendale-mo.us or come by the City of Greendale, located at 7309 Natural Bridge Road, Room 204, St. Louis, MO 63121, to ill out an application. Applicants must email their resume and at least 3 references to mayor@ greendale-mo.us. Deadline: 5/9/17.

St. LouiS american Bids & Public Notices S

OPEN REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

St. Louis Economic Development Partnership (SLEDP) is issuing an open request for qualiications from professional services/ consulting irms for various projects initiated in 2017. SLEDP is seeking qualiications from irms with expertise that includes, but is not limited to, the following areas:

• Architectural design and consulting services

• Planning, landscape architecture and urban design services

• Engineering services (including but not limited to civil and mechanical, electrical and plumbing specializations)

• Environmental consulting/engineering services (including but not limited to assessment, remedial design and site remediation/cleanup services)

• Geotechnical services

• Traic generation and assessment analysis

• Building inspection services

• General Contracting/Construction

• Landscaping

• Construction Cost Estimating

• Construction management/oversight

• Land surveying

• Economic and community development consulting (economic/market research and studies, incentives/ tax analyses, appraisals, existing conditions analysis, and community assessment and outreach)

• Strategic planning (includes organizational develop ment, SWOT analysis, long-term goal planning)

• Real estate consulting (strategic facilities planning and space planning/programming)

• Property acquisition and relocation services

• Financial consulting services in the areas of (but not limited to) loan packaging and loan servicing, tax exempt and taxable bond inancing, joint venture equity, mezzanine or other forms of debt and equity inancing

• Mentoring/consulting services in the areas of, but not limited to, human resources, risk management, information technology, inancial management, sales training, marketing and legal

• Marketing/communications (PR, electronic market ing, news story development, ads)

• Multi-lingual translation and interpretation services

• International trade consulting and research services (trade commodity lows, market research and develop ment, business planning, compliance including legal and inancial)

• International diplomatic, trade, and economic devel opment consulting

• Project management consulting services (includes, project development, advocacy, political outreach)

• Legal Services in all areas of specialization, including but not limited to, corporate law, contract negotiations and transactional support, immigration, legislation, incentive analysis and negotiations, environmental law, land use and eminent domain, real estate law, public inance transactions (incentives analysis and public funding mechanisms/bonds, and business inance) and litigation

• Any and all specialty services pertaining to the establishment and operation of the US Citizen & Immigration Service EB5 program or EB5 Regional Centers to include but not limited to immigration legal counsel, corporate and securities legal counsel, economic analysis, business plan writing, marketing, web design and maintenance, and international marketing and securities brokerage.

• Information Technology services (including but not limited to selection, design and maintenance of SLEDP’s database(s) to meet organizational reporting needs, website design, maintenance and hosting, and other related audio/visual and related technology services)

• Tax, auditing and accounting services

• Fundraising

• Grant writing services

• Custodial and janitorial services

• Waste management services

Firms must identify in their submittal which category or up to four categories of services they are qualiied to provide. Qualiication submittals should provide resumes for key staf members, proile a sampling of projects that the irm has worked on in the past, and disclose MBE/WBE/DBE status if applicable. Please also let us know if your irm is owned by a foreign-born entrepreneur. Finally, irms should designate a contact person and provide that individual’s contact information including e-mail address.

Please submit one PDF copy of statement of qualiications to St. Louis Economic Development Partnership, Attn: Bill Budde at wbudde@stlpartnership.com by 3 p.m., Friday, May 26, 2017. Equal Opportunity Employer.

Notice to Minority Business Enterprises, Women Business Enterprises, Disadvantaged Business Enterprises, Service Disabled Veteran Business Enterprises, and/or Veteran Business Enterprises

Sircal/Tarlton, A Joint Venture, located at 2100 E. Broadway, Columbia MO 65201 and 5500 West Park Ave., St. Louis MO 63110 respectively, is seeking qualiied Minority, Women, Disadvantaged, Service Disabled Veteran, and/or Veterans Business Enterprises to bid on he State Historical Society of Missouri Center for Missouri Studies for he Curators of the University of Missouri to be located at 605 Elm Street, Columbia MO 65201 for subcontracting opportunities in all work areas as deined by the contract drawings and speciications. Sircal and Tarlton have teamed up to provide a dynamic team pursue this project providing the best value and experience available to aggressively pursue this project.

Project includes the construction of a new 3-story facility for the new State Historical Society Building to include gallery space, lecture halls, archives, library, classroom, oices, & conference rooms, as well as corridor & vertical circulation, mechanical & electrical equipment space, toilets, & other support spaces. Demolition shall consist of site improvement demolition & site clearing. Architectural work shall consist of waterprooing; precast concrete panel rainscreen assemblies; cold-formed framing substrate wall with continuous insulation, luid applied air barrier membrane, sheathing, & interior gypsum board; glazed aluminum framed curtainwall system; aluminum storefront entrances; insulated single-ply elastomeric membrane rooing assemblies & associated lashings & accessories; sealants; ireprooing; loading dock equipment; doors, frames, & operating hardware; stairs; conveying systems (elevators); concrete unit masonry; interior metal stud/gypsum board partitions; toilet compartments & accessories; ire protection cabinets & extinguishers; interior millwork; all interior inishes; furnishings, ixtures, & equipment required for user operations; & all other building systems required to complete the facility. Structural work shall consist of reinforced concrete drilled piers, foundations & foundation walls, slabs on grade, & elevated slabs; structural steel framing; steel joist framing; metal loor & roof decking; & non-bearing cold-formed metal stud framing. Mechanical work shall consist of ire suppression systems; plumbing systems; HVAC systems; & commissioning of services. Electrical work shall consist of electrical power systems & distribution; lighting systems; site transformers & meters; & electronic safety & security systems, including ire-alarm system.

A prebid meeting will be held at 10 a.m. CT on April 26, 2017 in the General Services Building, Room 194A, University of Missouri, Columbia MO, followed by a walk through at the site. All interested bidders are invited to attend this meeting.

A Diversity participation goal of 10% for MBE, 3% SDVE, 10% combined WBE, DBE and Veteran Owned Business has been established for this contract.

All interested and qualiied businesses should contact Scott Snyders at 314-633-3300 to discuss the subcontracting opportunities. All negotiations must be completed prior to 12 p.m. on May 15, 2017.

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

MWBE Pre-bid Meeting Notice

he SITE Improvement Association is hosting a Pre-bid meeting for Qualiied and Certiied MWBE contractors to discuss working on Brentmore Pump Station Replacement Contract Letting No. 12099-015.1

A pre-bid meeting is being held on behalf of the following SITE contractor members:

Fred M. Luth & Sons

4516 McRee Avenue St. Louis, MO 63110 314/771-3892

Bates Utility Company 841 Westwood Industrial Drive Weldon Spring, MO 63304 636/939-5628

he meeting will take place at 10:00 a.m. May 4, 2017 SITE Improvement Association 2071 Exchange Drive, St. Charles, MO 63303

he prime contractor is seeking certiied MWBE contractors for the following work listed, but not limited to:

For questions regarding this pre-bid meeting, contact the SITE Improvement Association oice at 314/966-2950

RFP: Strategic Planning Facilitator

St. Louis Alliance for Reentry (STAR) is an alliance of community stakeholders that includes health and human service providers, criminal justice professionals, business leaders, and community stakeholders. STAR’s mission is to integrate successful intervention principles and practices resulting in collaborative partnerships that enhance ex-ofender self-suiciency, reduce recidivism, and improve public safety and community health in St. Louis City and County. STAR is seeking an experienced facilitator to lead a strategic planning process to establish a 5 year plan. Interested parties may obtain a copy of the RFP by visiting www. stlreentry.org Proposals are due no later than 5 p.m. (CST), May 22, 2017. Send proposal to: Les Johnson, ARCHS. Email address: info@stlreentry.org.

BID PROPOSAL

KCI Construction requests subcontract proposals from MBE, WBE, SDVE businesses for the Interior/Exterior Renovations Coliseum, Womans Building, West Campgrounds, Missouri State Fairgrounds, Sedalia, Missouri Project No.: F1601-01

Plans and speciications are available

• To view electronically at no charge from: http://planroom.adsmo.net/

• To view at our Camdenton oice

• By a Dropbox Link from jmorrow@kci construction.com

Subcontractor bids are due by 1:30 p.m. hursday, May 18, 2017. You may email bids to jmorrow@kciconstruction.com or send a fax to 573-346-9739. Please call if you have any questions: 314-200-6496.

Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63103-2555 until 10:00 a.m. on May 26th, 2017 to contract with a company for: Roof Replacement Services for County Pump Sub 5 Pump Station (C P-P-482). A Highly Recommended will be held on 05/04/17 @ 10:00am at the job site: 1 Hitzert Ct, Fenton MO, 63026. Speciications and bid forms may be obtained from www.stlmsd.com, click on the “MSD AT WORK” link, (bid opportunities). he bid document will be identiied as 8914 RFQ. If you do not have access to the internet, call 314.768.6269 to request a copy of this bid. Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Public Notice of Single Source Procurement

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is proposing to procure funds as described in Ordinance 14612: in agreement with Land Agreement for Redevelopment Authority (LCRA) of the City of St. Louis. The District is proposing procurement to LCRA for CSO Volume Reduction Green Infrastructure 11146. Any inquiries should be sent to ltreat@stlmsd.com.

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

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) PCI COMPLIANCE CONSULTING SERVICES SAINT LOUIS ZOO

he Saint Louis Zoo is requesting proposals from companies to assist the Zoo with our PCI Compliance Initiatives. Companies are requested to submit their qualiications, proposed approach, team members, deliverables and total proposed costfor consideration based on the scope of work outlined below. he deadline for submitting a response to this RFP is May 22, 2017. For further information go to https:// www.stlzoo.org/about/contact/vendoropportunities/

Public Notice of Single Source Procurement

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is proposing to procure: Sludge Lagoon Management at the Coldwater WWTP. The District is proposing single source procurement to Boone Consulting for the management of sludge lagoons including mowing, weed control, EPA sampling and reports, etc. Any inquiries should be sent to ameyer@stlmsd.com.

www.stlamerican.com

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS

Lincoln University of Missouri is accepting sealed bids for Renovations to Dwight T. Reed Stadium on the campus of Lincoln University. Bids will be received hursday, May 11, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. A pre-bid meeting will be held hursday, May 4, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. at Reed Stadium, 1110 Chestnut Street, Jeferson City, MO. A full copy of the bid notice is available at https://bluetigerportal. lincolnu.edu/web/design-and-construction/notice-to-contractors

ST. LOUIS COMMUNITY COLLEGE

St. Louis Community College will receive separate

BIDS

f o r W a s t e Water Lagoon

Rehabilitation, St. Joe State Park, Park Hills, MO, Project No. X1407-01 will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30

PM, 5/18/2017. For specific project information and ordering plans, go to: http://oa.mo. gov/facilities

AUDITING SERVICES

he Missouri Lottery is accepting bids for the purpose of establishing a contract for auditing services . he bid document with the speciications can be obtained by going to http:// www.molottery.com/learnaboutus/ bid_opportunities.shtm or by contacting Judy Martin at judy.martin@ molottery.com or 573-751-4050.

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE:

Religion

Prayer and the streets

Faith connects mentors who gathered for Tauheed Youth Group reunion

By Chris King

Of The St. Louis American

Scott Collier traveled from Washington, D.C. to his hometown of St. Louis for the Tauheed Youth Group reunion, April 6-9, to support and assist Brother Anthony Shahid, the group’s founder and prime mover.

A retired St. Louis police officer who now works in security for the federal government, Collier said he owes “a debt of gratitude and appreciation” to the activist and organizer from North St. Louis.

“When I was injured in the line of duty in 1993, Anthony was there as a supporter from day one,” Collier said. “Literally every day I was in the hospital, he showed up and prayed for me.”

“He flew in for me,” Shahid said of Collier, “because he remembers how he would always hear that prayer, in Arabic and in English. He was with me Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday. We did street patrols together.”

The practical reason for the reunion was also a motivator for Collier, he said: “Anthony said he wanted to address the problems of black-on-black crime.”

Hajj Sultan Muhammad co-hosted the reunion of the mentoring group with Shahid. Featured speakers at the various events included Michael Brown Sr., co-founder of Chosen For Change; Imam Abdul Malik, originator of Islam on Capitol

Hill; and Minister Akbar Muhammad, the international representative for the Nation of Islam.

With them on the streets of St. Louis was Victor Ali, who was released from prison last year after serving 30 years for murder. He served in prison the entire 30 years since Shahid founded the Tauheed Youth Group and only learned about Shahid while watching television in prison. He noticed an unusual, older brother in the mix of young activists and organizers leading Ferguson protests.

“I said, ‘Who is this black man on the front line having a voice?’” Ali said. “I asked almighty God, Allah, to please bless me to meet this man upon

my return back home.”

Once Ali was back on the outside and in St. Louis, a nephew took him to the Gamble Center to meet Shahid, and they have been together ever since.

“It was a very beautiful blessing,” Ali said. “Brother Shahid goes in jails and tries to help these youth. I was once a youth myself. Changes were made in my life because of a mistake I made, and I went to prison for murder. But God, Allah, blessed me to go back home and meet a man like Brother Shahid who is doing something for the black cause.”

Like the prayers that Collier thinks saved him in the hospital, Ali said, “It was praying in prison that allowed me to restructure my

life.” And now he wants to work with Shahid to help other young men restructure theirs.

“I don’t want to see no youth out here go to prison like I did,” Ali said. “God blessed me to come back home. Brother Shahid was the missing link in my life. The reunion was beautiful. I can not say enough about what I learned.” And what he now feels compelled to teach others.

“They listen to me,” Ali said of the hard youth the group is trying to reach. “I’ve been through what they’re going through. A lot of black mothers are losing their sons at an early age to the prison or to the graveyard, and it just destroys me.”

T

Lost and found

Are you lost? Are you found? And who determines the right answer? Biblically we lost it all in Eden and had it restored at the cross. The “it” I’m referring to is us. Can you be found without being lost first? I know what lost is because once I found Christ I found me. Finding myself in relationship with God was and is an eye-opening experience, the likes of which I would wish on every one of you.

Being lost in this world is also being vulnerable to it. The world will see to it that you lose yourself to its entanglements, its temptations, its temporary pleasures known as whatever your weaknesses are – greed, ambition, pride, sex, drugs, power, guilt, shame. Pick your poison. If you don’t, then being lost allows your poison to pick you.

A funny thing happens when you make an honest effort to find yourself; much like the addict who must first admit the addiction, the effort is defined by an acknowledgement of being lost and in need of third-party help. In the Parable of the Lost Son that acknowledgement looks like this: “Father I have sinned against heaven and you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired men.” Luke 15:18-19.

His truth he could not deny. He was lost and in need of answers. Being lost, he found it in this plea to God. It enabled him to find himself, if not define himself, and ultimately make his way home. And you know what he found? He found a waiting father who had these enlightened words for the son who never left: “But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.” Luke 15:32. When you finally get it, there’s only one place to and that’s home. In this case and every one I’m familiar with, home is where God is. The way was prepared by Christ who, like a homing beacon, shows us all how to find ourselves and thus be found. If you’ve ever been truly lost, you know the exhilaration you feel when you finally figure it out and get going in the right direction. Recognize that being lost is not the issue. Having enough sense to know it and do something about it is. I promise you the moment you begin to look for the Lord, He will find you. He is right there at the depths of your despair just waiting for you to look at Him. It should redefine your life. That kind of lost will always be found.

Columnist James Washington

Photo by Wiley Price

Brother Anthony Shahid rallied alumni and other mentors at Vashon High School in St. Louis to go out on a street patrol during the Tauheed Youth Group reunion on April 8.