April 3rd, 2014 Edition

Brown School awards Halbert Sullivan

is 2014 Distinguished Alum

By Rebecca Rivas Of The St. Louis American

n Incumbents

Eight candidates are on the April 8 ballot for the Ferguson-Florissant School Board election – a race that came into the spotlight after six of the seven current school board members voted to place Superintendent Art McCoy Jr. on administrative leave in November. These eight candidates are vying for three open seats to serve a three-year term. Two of those candidates are incumbents: Paul Morris, president of the board, and Rob Chabot, board secretary. The third incumbent whose

By Tim

By Bridjes O’Neil Of The St. Louis

Photo by Whitney Curtis

Photo by Wiley Price

Photo by Wiley Price

Evelyn Lozada snatches Wendy’s wig

Reality star Evelyn Lozada used social media to clap back on TV show host Wendy Williams after she referred to Lozada’s newborn son as a cash register on The Wendy Williams Show.

“I want to congratulate Evelyn Lozada. Evelyn gave birth to a cash register, I mean, a baby boy, with her fiancé, the $142 million Carl Crawford,” Williams told the audience. “I didn’t mean to make that cash register joke, but you see why it’s easy to be said. “And Carl, Carl like a lot of sports players and a lot of artists, he’s not a bad-looking man, but he certainly wasn’t getting the likes of an Evelyn Lozada if he wasn’t playing baseball. … Evelyn you get yourself a little apron and a little Epsom salt to make sure your man’s joint are all taken care of, and take care of your cash register.”

Lozada responded to Williams’ comments via Facebook and Twitter.

bought you a beautiful bouquet of flowers congratulating your Broadway debut,” Lozada, who copied Williams, said. “Since you want me to open Dulce in LA, maybe your man can come to that store and purchase shoes for another woman like he did at my Miami store. Bloop! Oh…BTW…he purchased the Casadei suede over the knee boots triple platform just in case you wanted to know. #DontComeForMe #INeverBotherU #NowPutThatOnHotTopics.”

Benzino shot by nephew while heading to mother’s funeral

“You know I never bother anyone. I even

Gai Scott was arrested charged with armed assault and intent to murder. He was ordered held without bail. He pleaded not guilty in Plymouth District Court, claiming he acted in self-defense.

Star Magazine exposes NeNe’s laundry list rap sheet

A recent edition of Star Magazine dug up 20 year old dirty laundry regarding crimes committed by reality star NeNe Leakes and aired it out to readers.

“Love and Hip Hop Atlanta” fans were shocked after news spread that Raymond “Benzino” Scott had been shot on his way to his mother’s funeral in Boston over the weekend.

Sources say a family feud between Benzino, 48, and his nephew Gai Scott, 36, had been simmering for some time and boiled over during the funeral procession for Benzino’s mother, Mary Scott.

According to reports Gai pulled his Bentley alongside Benzino’s red SUV on the way to the church and fired several shots into his vehicle.

The rest of the family continued on to the church as Benzino was rushed to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

According to Athens-Clarke County (Georgia) Superior Court documents obtained by Star Magazine, she was arrested and charged in 1992 with three felony and one misdemeanor counts of “theft of services” from the phone company. At the time, she was 25 and known by her birth name of Linnethia Johnson.

NeNe settled on a plea agreement, where she pled guilty to all four counts and was put on two years’ probation and ordered to repay $2,650. Over the next two years, though, she was arrested three more times for probation violations.

enough about myself to change my life and you can too. With God anything is possible.”

Wale explains smack down at WWE

Over the weekend D.C. rapper Wale got into a shoving match with a fan who was heckling him on Twitter from a few seats away at a WWE wrestling match.

Wale shares his side of the story with MTV News.

Leakes responded to her criminal past via Twitter.

“22 years ago I was lost, scared, trapped and a single mom,” Leakes tweeted. “I care

“I was like, ‘Yo, is this you?’ And one thing lead to another, and I just kind of mushed him a little bit. Honestly, if there wasn’t kids right there, it would have went a little bit differently, but I just wanted to be conscious of them. It’s not to say it was the right decision. But in the moment, you know. People get it misconstrued. Like, ‘Oh, you’re so butt-hurt.’ It’s not even that. I come from a place where when we was at the lunch table and [expletives] was jonesing (sic) on each other, I’ll respond. I’m gonna have something better, too. And now we’ve come to a place where, if you respond, you’re a [expletive]. Somebody could say ‘[expletive] you’ 100 times, if I say [expletive] you back, then I’m a [b-word expletive]. And people be like, ‘You’re famous, you shouldn’t care.”

Sources: RadarOnline.com, Star Magazine, MTV News, TMZ.com

Normandy gaining public support

By Dale Singer Of St. Louis Public Radio

Residents of the 24 communities that make up the Normandy School District are rallying behind the schools as their fate is being decided in Jefferson City, a task force studying the district’s future was told Thursday.

Chris Krehmeyer, president and CEO of the group Beyond Housing, said that just as its 24:1 initiative has helped revitalize the area in general, with more options for basic services such as banking and groceries, it also has generated more support for the schools.

Noting a recent series of public events – including a prayer vigil, a rally, a bus trip to Jefferson City and a march by middle school students saying that their education is a basic civil right – Krehmeyer said that such support may have been a long time coming, but it is getting stronger.

“We want our schools to be the best they can be,” Krehmeyer said the residents are telling everyone who will listen. “We want to have local control. We want to make sure we have nothing but the best for our children.”

The 10-member task force was named by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education after the state school board voted last month to put Normandy’s finances under DESE’s control. The district’s budget has been hit hard by the tuition and in some cases the transportation costs it must pay for about 1,000 students who have transferred to nearby accredited schools under a law upheld last year by the Missouri Supreme Court.

The most immediate problem is money Normandy needs to complete the school year. The amount needed originally was estimated at $6.8 million, then $5 million. The latter amount was approved by the Missouri House, but the state Senate voted last week to approve only $1.5

million in emergency funds.

State Rep. Rick Stream, R-Kirkwood, who chairs the House Budget Committee, said Thursday that DESE now estimates Normandy’s need at about $2 million.

Carole Basile, the dean of the school of education at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, is chair of the transition task force. The panel’s recommendations are due by the middle of May.

“We are looking at what happens in a transition year,” Basile said. “So if the district lapses as of June 30, what happens in a transition year and what happens after that?”

Krehmeyer told the task force that the partnership between Beyond Housing and Normandy schools began five years ago but took on more urgency as the district lost its accreditation and its students became eligible to transfer to accredited schools.

“Keep the community together,”

Krehmeyer said. “Don’t send kids to multiple places.”

He noted that Tyrone McNichols, who became superintendent on July 1, was dealt an impossible hand right from the start. But a reformation plan put together by the district is the right formula for success, Krehmeyer added.

Changing the culture in a district where the schools have underperformed

for so long won’t be easy, Krehmeyer said. But, he told the task force, “give this superintendent a chance. Give the reformation plan a chance to work.”

Members of the task force discussed a variety of factors that have affected Normandy’s performance.

Former state Sen. Wayne Goode, a Normandy graduate, noted that in terms of finances, the district has spent more than $13,000 in revenue per student, placing it among the top half of St. Louis County districts in terms of money.

“It’s a poor district in terms of the people who live there,” Goode said, “but it’s not a poor district in terms of the money that it spends on education.”

Gary Cunningham, a former member of the state school board and also a Normandy graduate, wondered whether the district should be providing the support services that Krehmeyer said the community needs.

“Getting the schools too much involved in support services just detracts from the mission of the school,” he said. “The mission of the school is education.”

But Monica Huddleston, mayor of Greendale, one of the communities that make up the district, countered: “You can’t get education without that support.”

Edited for length and reprinted with permission from news.stlpublicradio.org.

Unequal education: anyone listening?

By Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. Columnist

The U.S. Department of Education just released its annual study on civil rights in our education system. The report, Attorney General Eric Holder summarized, “shows that racial disparities in school discipline policies are not only well-documented among older students but actually begin during preschool.”

Pre-school? Yes, from preschool on, boys of color are disproportionately afflicted by suspensions and zero-tolerance policies in school. They are more likely to be disciplined, more likely to be suspended and more likely to be held back a grade. Suspended students are less likely to graduate on time and more likely to be suspended a second time. They are more likely to drop out and to end up in trouble.

full-time counselor. Zero tolerance.

Inexperienced and poorly paid teachers. Less support. Less access to advanced courses. The odds are stacked against these kids from preschool on. The report isn’t a revelation. What has been lacking isn’t evidence of disparity, it is evidence of action. Is anyone listening?

The report shows that preschool is not a reality for much of the country, particularly in poorer districts. Where it does exist, students of color – blacks and Latinos – are more likely to be suspended. This has been documented repeatedly in older grades, but now we learn it starts even in preschool.

The report documents a continuing and shameful catalog of racial disparity.

Black and Latino students are more likely to have teachers with less experience and lower pay. African Americans, Latinos and students with disabilities are less likely to have access to the full range of science and math courses or a

We are condemning another generation to poverty, despair, broken homes and broken families. We are writing off children –starting in preschool – without giving them a fair shot. We have a continuing crisis of class and race. Parents need to challenge aggressively discriminatory discipline practices. Communities need to join together to demand an end to the savage inequality in schools. We need more resources targeted to the schools with the most need. This is a moral disgrace. It is also a national folly. Children of color are together the future majority, not the minority. Our country’s future will depend on educating them well, and ensuring that each can reach his or her full potential. When we discard them in large numbers, we are discarding our own future.

America has come a long way on issues of race, but we still have structural disparities that have not been erased and, in some ways, have grown worse. We don’t need more reports. We don’t need “model” programs. We need a call to action and a serious commitment to redress this injustice.

Columnist Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr.

Normandy Superintendent Tyrone McNichols addressed a town hall meeting about Normandy schools on Feb. 1 at Barack Obama Elementary School. Photo by Wiley Price

Editorial /CommEntary

Rebirth of the college cool St. Louis American endorses …

There is a well-funded movement in motion to persuade the public that St. Louis city and county would be “Better Together,” but one glance at the Chinese menu that is the ballot for St. Louis County’s municipal election’s on Tuesday, April 8 shows that the county itself is far, far from being “together” within itself. On Tuesday, voters in the county will elect alderpersons in 38 municipalities, council members in 21 municipalities, trustees in 21 municipalities, mayors in 21 municipalities, directors in 15 school districts, collectors in five municipalities, marshals in three municipalities, trustees in two community college sub-districts and a judge in one municipality. Voters also will decide propositions in six municipalities and six fire districts and bond issues in three school districts, two municipalities and one fire district. This can’t possibly be the way government should be administered in a county with the population of roughly 1 million. That said, we would like our readers to pay attention to two highly significant elections on this Chinese menu: those for St. Louis Community College trustees in Sub-district 1 and for director on the Ferguson-Florissant School Board. The community college is crucial to access educational opportunity and workforce development in this region, particularly for African Americans, and FergusonFlorissant is a fully accredited majority-black district. Also, both the college and the district recently lost AfricanAmerican chief executives who were making progress, based on the decisions of board majorities that, we believe, did not represent the best interests of our community, their institutions or this region. A change for the better in those board majorities is possible if voters come out in high numbers and vote for change candidates on April 8. Redditt Hudson is the clear choice to join the community college board

in Sub-district 1, which includes 10 school districts in north and central county. Hudson, the former ACLU staffer and current NAACP field organizer, is a proven fighter for our community, and this is a vitally important position. St. Louis Community College, with a budget of $227.1 million, impacts more African Americans than any institution of higher education in the region; 35 percent of its 24,000 students are African Americans. Hudson will have to dial down his intensity a little to combat entrenched problems in a college with multiple constituencies, which is different from facing the problems on the streets that he has mostly battled to date in leading community efforts to improve conditions in city jails and address police misconduct. But he is an able, energetic and intelligent man who will adapt to the realities of the boardroom. We strongly endorse REDDITT HUDSON FOR COMMUNITY COLLEGE TRUSTEE, SUBDISTRICT 1

For the Ferguson-Florissant School Board, we have been impressed by the slate of three candidates put together by Citizens’ Task Force on Excellence in Education, a group formed after the current board suspended Superintendent Art McCoy Jr. McCoy was silenced and ultimately felt compelled to

resign from the district by an all-white school board that governs a school district where 78 percent of the student body is black. This board needs more members who are deeply acquainted with the background and needs of more than threefourths of district students. We believe electing F. Willis Johnson Jr., Donna PauletteThurman and James Savala to the board will force a strong shift towards a governing body with more empathy and insight into what these students need to succeed.

Reverend F. Willis Johnson Jr. is the senior pastor and founder of the Wellspring United Methodist Church in Ferguson and a third-generation educator with experience in classrooms as well as in the trenches of educational reform. Donna Paulette-Thurman is a retired district administrator with 15 years of experience as an elementary school principal with the right instinct to get parents more involved with the district. James A. Savala is a parent of two children in the district who understands that these children need to see more strong African-American leaders as role models. We strongly endorse REVEREND F. WILLIS JOHNSON JR., DONNA PAULETTETHURMAN AND JAMES A. SAvALA FOR FERGUSONFLORISSANT SCHOOL BOARD

Obamacare enrolls 7.1M

We commend embattled President Barack Obama and his administration for enrolling 7.1 million previously uninsured Americans for private health insurance coverage before the March 31 deadline mandated by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Obama said, “That’s on top of the more than three million young adults who get insurance under this law by staying on their family’s plan,” due to new provisions in his signature legislation. Many of the newly enrolled individuals would previously have been denied coverage due to preexisting conditions, which is no longer legal, under this transformative legislation.

“In the end, history is not kind to those who would deny Americans their basic

economic security,” Obama said. “Nobody remembers well those who stand in the way of America’s progress or their people.” Sadly, Republicans are not listening to this simple wisdom, as repealing Obamacare remains a plank in the Republican platform. We think they will fail, in the end. The individual mandate to enroll by March 31, enforced by fines, was designed to enlarge the pool of insured Americans to eventually drive down costs of services for everyone in the market. We expect that this will, in fact, happen. We also are certain that all health care consumers will come to appreciate this act’s provision that at least 80 percent of their premium dollar must now pay for health care benefits, or their insurance

Somebody lied! Some insidious somebody tricked some of our young men into thinking that education is not cool. True, college is emphasized to our young men – see the numerous college/ university names that we will see on the chests of black men participating in the NCAA and NIT tournament – but education itself is not being glorified. To be sure, there are those dedicated educators, parents and community members who effectively point out the blessings of learning and education, but there is a great deal undermining that effort. With entire school districts in already economically impoverished areas losing funding and accreditation, it is not easy to convince a young black man that his education is important to society, let alone himself. We must strategize ways to show that succeeding in school is essential to personal growth and community development.

That is where the African American Male Scholars (AAMS) Initiative at Saint Louis University seeks to

intervene. On Thursday, April 3, AAMS will host “The Rebirth of Cool: Education and Black Men” panel and lecture, starting at 5:30 p.m. in the Center for Global Citizenship (3672 West Pine Blvd.).

n Help us give new life to what our black young men conceive of as cool.

This free and open to public event will feature educators, leaders, and students such as Terry Freeman, professor at St. Louis Community College Florissant Valley; administrator and educator Chinelo Bandele of Pamoja Preparatory Academy; co-chair of the AAMS Steering Committee and director of the SLU Cross Cultural Center LaTanya Buck; SLU freshman Jonathan Pulphus; and, community activist Jamala Rogers of the Organization of Black Struggle. Following the panel, nationally renowned educator and policy commentator Steve Perry of TV One’s “Save My Son” will lecture on his book “Push Has Come to Shove: Getting our Kids the Education They Deserve

Letters to the editor

Urgency and outsourcing

One year is simply not enough time for a struggling school to show marked improvement, even with the right combination of funding and resources. We all feel an urgency to improve our schools, but urgency should not trump getting it right.

The most serious flaw of Superintendent Kelvin Adams’ turnaround plan is handing over the keys to our schools to outside contractors after just one year. Outsourcing has never improved struggling schools as promoted and is the educational equivalent of washing your hands of something, shaming and blaming the teachers who tried their best.

President Barack Obama receives an update on Affordable Care Act in the Oval Office, April 1.

(Official White House Photo by Pete Souza)

schools was very disappointing and disturbing. Currently, SLPS is governed by a three-person appointed Special Administrative Board (SAB). The SAB is scheduled to hear the final recommendations on April 10 at their public meeting at 801 N. 11th St.

Katherine Wessling, spokesperson Board of Education St. Louis

Expand Medicaid now

The best chance for sustained improvement is to use a community schools model, in which students get a well-rounded curriculum with interventions as well as programs and services that address their social, emotional and health needs. Instead of using non-profit outside contractors to take over schools, non-profits can play an important role by helping to provide wraparound services.

Teachers, parents other community members and school management should work together to develop and implement a sustainable, sound plan that is given the time to work.

Mary J. Armstrong, president AFT St. Louis

Disturbed by outsourcing

company will owe them a rebate. And the great many Americans with preexisting conditions whose health is now insured can be expected to defend this legislation when it next comes under attack.

President Obama’s tenure in the White House is historic for obvious reasons that we have championed many times. But it is clear now that his breaking the color barrier at the highest level of electoral politics may not be his most lasting contribution to American history. He may well be remembered as the president who fought the health insurance industry – within the limits of his powers, and with imperfect results – in the interests of the health of all of the American people.

The City of St. Louis Board of Education has reviewed the recommendations of Kelvin Adams, superintendent of the St. Louis Public School District, regarding outsourcing management of the struggling schools during the 2014-2015 school year.

The Board of Education concluded that the majority of the recommendations have merit; however, the board will not accept the recommendation of outsourcing individual schools to outside management entities. It is understood that his recommendation to outsource the management of particular schools will not occur until after one year implementation of his plan has occurred and no noticeable academic gains are realized.

The recommendation of outsourcing low performing

– Even If It Means Picking a Fight.” In addition to the panel and lecture, community organizations will be on site to share information with the public.

In a column I wrote for The St. Louis American in August 2013, I pointed out the need to “stunt” for our young men to counteract the negative images portrayed by members of the media, some of whom make justifications for killing unarmed black boys. This is my opportunity to brag about young black men who are making college cool while maintaining their interest in the improvement of their community.

We are asking that educators encourage their students to attend, that parents bring their families and that community members concerned about the progress of black young men join the conversation on April 3. Help us give new life to what our black young men conceive of as cool.

For more information, contact the St. Louis University Cross Cultural Center at aams@slu.edu or 314-9772119.

Stefan M. Bradley is director of African American Studies at SLU and co-chair of the African American Male Scholars Initiative.

involvement and the service aspect of policing. Cops don’t recognize it, but they are in fact salesmen. So an academy program to teach sales techniques would be an ideal vehicle to assist in achieving the goals desired via civilian oversight. And a must-have: demilitarizing the police function.

Michael K. Broughton Green Park

An independent report by the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and the Missouri Hospital Association lays out in stark detail how Missouri communities are already suffering the consequences of the legislature’s failure to act on Medicaid. Fortunately, there is a clear path – and plenty of time left in the session – for the General Assembly to prevent further damage to our economy and put the needs of Missouri families first. By expanding and reforming Medicaid, we can reverse these harmful job cuts, stop the flow of Missourians’ tax dollars to other states and bring affordable health coverage to hard-working Missouri families. Missourians deserve action now.

Gov. Jay Nixon, Jefferson City

Monsters and salesmen

A word of caution to those seeking to establish the Office of Civilian Oversight (OCO): Be careful what you work for. Proponents presumable want the OCO to be a civilian entity within the police department; that is, they desire to “bore into the beast.” If such an office is established, those working within will eventually be consumed by “the beast.” The OCO will become just another operating part of the monster they seek to tame. The oversight community leaders desire can be attained by managing the police department from the outside: by city government establishing stringent employment qualifications and job assignment and promotional criteria devoid of the nepotism, favoritism and cronyism that control these aspects of the St. Louis PD.

Critical also is revamping police academy training to focus more on community

Guest Columnist Stefan Bradley

‘Special’ in Jennings

Special Friends Extended Mentor Program, directed by Holly Cousins, completed its session at Jennings Junior High School with a lesson on responsibility. Students were asked about various ways to demonstrate responsibility and what that entails at the junior high level. All students participated. Mentors from other organizations, including Church On The Rock, the United Way and the Urban League Young Professionals, facilitated a lesson with classroom teachers.

Key Communicator Network meeting

East St. Louis School District 189 will host the last Key Communicator Network meeting of the year at 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 9 in the Board Room at the East St. Louis School District 189 Board of Education building, 1005 State St., East St. Louis, Ill. Agenda items for the meeting include a district update. Dinner will be provided. Please submit any topics that you would like to have addressed to Kimberly Roberson at kimberly. roberson@estl189.com.

Arbor Day in Richmond Heights

The City of Richmond Heights will celebrate Arbor Day at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, April 4, at The Heights Community Center, 8001 Dale Ave. Geared toward children of all ages, the event will feature a tree planting, games, crafts and prizes. To commemorate Arbor Day throughout April, the city forestry staff will provide educational brochures and programs to local schools by appointment. For more information, contact City Forester Tim Brunsman at 314-655-3656.

Auditions for ‘The Wiz’ on Sunday

The Hawthorne Players will hold auditions for “The Wiz” on Sunday, April 6 at the Florissant Civic Center Theatre. The troupe is looking for an integrated cast of approximately 30 triple-threat talents who can sing, dance and act, including 5-7 children ages 7 to 13, who are under 5 foot in height. Performance dates are August 1, 2, 8, 9, 10. For detailed audition information, including character descriptions, visit www. hawthorneplayers.com.

Women suffer more in prison

By Gloria J. Browne-Marshall Guest Columnist

In America and around the world, women suffer more in prison. Most female prisoners are housed with little consideration for their needs as women. Now there is a global guide for the treatment of female offenders called the Bangkok Rules. Certain abuses happen to female offenders just because they are women. It was over a decade ago when I volunteered as an advocate for inmates in the HIV unit of Alabama’s Tutwiler Prison for Women. Despite earlier lawsuits brought against Alabama’s correctional system, abuses continue there.

Today, federal investigators are calling Tutwiler Prison a “toxic” house of horrors where “repeated and open sexual behavior” is the norm.

A Department of Justice investigation found that for two decades prisoners at Tutwiler have been subjected to all manner of humiliation.

The list of abuse includes officers forcing women into sexual acts in exchange for basic sanitary supplies, male guards openly watching women shower and use the bathroom, a staff-organized strip show, and a constant barrage of sexually offensive language, according to the New York Daily News

However, those abuses in Alabama may now be an international incident. The Bangkok Rules, enacted by the United Nations General Assembly, is the first international guide to the treatment of incarcerated female offenders.

There are more than 625,000 women and girls held in prisons worldwide. America has over 2.2 million incarcerated persons. America’s “War on Drugs” has had a devastating effect on women and men, alike. With only 5 percent of the world’s population, the U.S. has 25 percent of the world’s inmates. Most American women in jails and prisons are serving sentences for nonviolent drug-related crimes.

Of that incarcerated population more than 200,000 are women and over one million more are on probation and parole, according to the American Civil Liberties Union. This means American prisons and jails hold about one third of the world’s incarcerated female population.

Female offenders need special protections. As with the suspected Tutwiler Prison guards, many female offenders are subject to rape by male guards and female inmates. Like male inmates, women struggle with substance abuse and mental illness. More women are victims of physical and sexual abuse prior to entering prison than men.

The Bangkok Rules do not ignore the crimes committed by women. The Rules take into account their special needs. Community re-entry programs are rarely designed for women. Prisons are located far from family support, breaking a mother’s bond with her children and weakening her community networks, making re-entry more difficult.

In America, racial disparities in the criminal justice system lead to longer sentences for African-American and Latino women. Since nearly 70 per cent of African-American children live in female-headed households, the loss of that parent to incarceration could mean placement of children in foster care. The number of incarcerated African-American women has increased 800 percent over the last two decades.

The Bangkok Rules address common issues between women offenders from Alabama to Algiers. But, the Rules are limited. They would not reach the type of racial disparities found in America’s criminal justice system. Enforcement of the Rules is primarily by international peer pressure, and without real punishment.

Gloria J. Browne-Marshall is associate professor of constitutional law at John Jay College and a legal correspondent covering the U.S. Supreme Court and the United Nations. Twitter:@GBrowneMarshall.

Gloria J. BrowneMarshall

is ending, vice president

Chris Martinez, is not seeking re-election. Elected in 2011, all three voted to place McCoy on administrative leave. McCoy subsequently resigned.

Three candidates – F. Willis Johnson Jr., Donna PauletteThurman and James Savala – were tapped to run together as the “Grade A for Change Slate” by a group known as the Citizens’ Task Force on Excellence in Education. The taskforce highly criticized the board’s November action and organized the candidates after the board suspended McCoy. The other three candidates are Kimberly Benz, Larry Thomas and LaWanda Wallace. Here is a brief look at four of the six new candidates. Larry Thomas and LaWanda Wallace did not return the St. Louis American’s calls or emails.

Reverend F. Willis Johnson Jr. is the senior pastor and founder of the Wellspring United Methodist Church in Ferguson. The church is based on youth development, he said, and the congregation adopted Central Elementary as a way of partnering with the school district to provide volunteer tutoring.

A third-generation educator, he has worked in classrooms as well as with legislators on

SULLIVAN

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Other awardees included

Adjoa A. Aiyetoro, an associate professor of law at the University of Arkansas at Little

educational reform. Through his experience, he said he understands the process in both state and municipal government and feels that would be an asset to the board. If elected, he said his first priority would be to rebuild the board’s rapport and level of trust among the community. Next, he said, “We need to do some fundraising and forecasting. We have to build relationships that build up our schools.” Through partnerships, he believes the district could create additional streams of revenue.

A native of Kansas City, Johnson has resided in

Rock and director of the Racial Disparities in the Arkansas Criminal Justice System Research Project; and Bethany Johnson-Javois, CEO of the non-profit St. Louis Integrated Health Network. “Our awardees come from various backgrounds, and

Ferguson since 2011 and has two children.

Donna Paulette-Thurman retired from the FergusonFlorissant School District after working 15 years as a principal at Griffith and Holman elementary schools. She has also worked in the Normandy, Webster Groves and Pattonville school districts as a counselor and special education teacher. She earned her doctorate in education administration from University of Missouri at St. Louis.

“I’ve always been interested in community and children,” she said. “After being retired

their paths have been uniquely theirs,” said Barbara Richter, MSW, co-chair of the 2014 Distinguished Alumni Awards Steering Committee.

“They did not always take the easiest or shortest route in their lives or their careers. But, their passion for their work and the people they serve is what unites them all.”

During his introduction of Sullivan, Brown School Dean Edward F. Lawlor said Sullivan has dedicated his career to improving the quality of life for children and families.

Sullivan acknowledged a dedicated staff and their hard work over the last 16 years. He spoke of receiving a number of awards, including the President’s Call to Service Award and the Charles A. Ballard Pioneer Award in Responsible Fatherhood. But, this is the award he said he always wanted.

He said he was never intimidated, as an older student who started higher education at a community college, by the prestige of Washington University.

“It wasn’t intimidation,” he said. “I look for a big mountain

for four years, I have the time and I plan on being active with the board. I would like to be an integral part of team who want to see our district succeed.”

If elected, Paulette-Thurman would like to focus on maintaining accreditation, as well as taking actions to bridge the gap in academic disparities among the various schools in the district. She would also like to hold town meetings apart from the board meetings to give parents more opportunities to voice their concerns and suggestions.

James A. Savala, a parent of two children in the district,

Rosemary Johnson, a member of the St. Louis County branch of the NAACP, worked a voter registration table during a voter rally held Saturday at the Omega Center, 3900 Goodfellow Blvd. Municipal elections will be held in St. Louis County on Tuesday, April 8. Call the St. Louis County Board of Elections at 314615-1822.

was raised in Berkeley. A quality inspector for Hussmann Refrigeration Company, Savala said he is approaching retirement and is looking for ways to give back to the community.

“I believe in student high achievement and reaching out to parents,” he said.

As a member of Shalom Church City of Peace, he has been teaching youth for 14 years as part of the church’s Youth in Training program. Because the district has a majority African-American student population, Savala believes it’s important for students to see strong black

role models. “The African-American community needs to see more African-American leaders,” he said. “They need to see men caring about them and helping to lead them.”

He believes parents should have more opportunities to provide input at board meetings and intends to find ways to make that happen.

Kimberly Benz, a McClure North alumna, has four children in the district and has been highly active at school board meetings for the past year.

“I bring a different perspective,” said Benz, a stayat-home mother who holds an associate degree in business management. “I have children in all three levels. I have an inside scoop.”

Benz has participated in focus groups to develop the district’s new strategic plan, which outlines budget and academic goals, among other things.

“That’s going to be our compass,” she said. “I’ve been very involved. I would be honored if I could be part of implementing it.” Besides the strategic plan, she also hopes to restore parents’ confidence through ensuring more open lines of communication.

The election is Tuesday, April 8. Call the St. Louis County Board of Elections at 314-615-1822.

Bethany JohnsonJavois, CEO of the non-profit St. Louis Integrated Health Network, also received a 2014 Distinguished Alum Award from the Brown School at Washington University.

n “Ninety-five percent of our children are good children, but there may be some bad adults around these children.”

– Halbert Sullivan

every day.”

At the Brown School, he developed a love of research, serving as the primary investigator or co-investigator on several research projects. His past research projects

include “Engaging Fathers in Positive Parenting,” “Family Formation & Employment Placement” and “Healthy Relationship Skills for Fragile Families.”

Currently he is working on the “Parents and Children Together Reach Project,” conducted by Mathematica Policy Research in Washington, D.C. This project will result in the FSC being listed in the federal registry of evidencebased practices.

“This group really gave me the opportunity to be of service to humanity,” Sullivan said during his acceptance speech, “and I’m very grateful for that.”

His path to the FSC started at the Brown School. During his research, he completed a practicum in the St. Louis Public Schools as a school social worker.

“Ninety-five percent of our children are good children,” he said, “but there may be some bad adults around these children.”

Working with troubled youth who had no responsible father in the home helped influence him to establish a

fathers’ support program. The FSC promotes fathers’ involvement in their children’s lives through intensive job training, group therapy, community service and parenting workshops. Since its inception, FSC has served more than 11,797 fathers and their families, transitioning nonparticipating fathers to a position of involvement and equity in the lives of over 29,000 children.

Sullivan has not always taken the easiest route in life. He was 43 when he began studying at St. Louis Community College at Forest Park. His main goal was to obtain a piece of paper that would help him land a decentpaying job, he said. He went on to Fontbonne University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in human services. He earned a MSW from the Brown School in 1997, the same year he established the FSC.

“It really makes a difference when you go to a quality university,” he said. “That university will open doors for you, just its name in itself.”

Photo by Wiley Price

RAILEY

Continued from A1

University School of Medicine.

“We need to figure out ways to make this thing work. At SLU, we are trying to create a workforce that is a diverse workforce.”

With the pressing problem of health disparities, it’s increasingly important to support diversity and cultural proficiency among medical students, he said. This has been his task for the past five years as leader of the Multicultural Affairs office at SLU.

On Friday, April 25, Michael Railey will receive the 2014 Stellar Performer in Health Care Award at the St. Louis American Foundation’s Salute to Excellence in Health Care Awards Luncheon at the Frontenac Hilton.

Dr. Railey is also heavily involved with answering the challenge of cultural proficiency and health disparity in the St. Louis community. He serves as the co-chair of the African American Aldermanic Health Foundation, which focuses on improving community health in North St. Louis.

Dr. Railey frequently speaks in churches and community settings regarding stress management, obesity, hypertension, healthy aging and spirituality.

“I always felt that I had the purpose of service to the community,” he said. “I’ve always tried to align my employment with purpose.”

n “I’ve always tried to align my employment with purpose.”

– Michael Railey, MD

“Like any endeavor, when you feel comfortable and accepted both academically and socially, your performance improves,” he said of medical professionals.

For the majority student population, often these comforting social and academic networks are already built in, he said. But for students of color, who make up only about 7 to 10 percent of the student population, it’s important to create a “community within a community.”

“For students of color, there are certain social pathways through interest groups that enable them to feel more comfortable in an environment where they are the minority,” he said.

SLPS

Continued from A1

St. Louis Public Schools

Superintendent Kelvin Adams introduced the idea during an SAB meeting this month as part of the “St. Louis Public School District Transformation Plan.” Under the plan, 18 schools with the lowest level of academic performance are grouped into a category called the “Superintendent Zone,” which Adams has been monitoring directly since the fall.

The plan calls for funneling roughly $6.4 million to the 18 schools that would pay for tutors, added social workers and teacher training. If one of the schools fails to show improvement during the coming school year, a nonprofit operator could be brought in during the 2015-16 school year and would have control over hiring staff and setting curriculum.

“These schools that we’re looking at have received three years of school improvement data, another year of support from the superintendent,” Adams said.

“They will receive, if the board approves this, another $6.3 million of support, as well. So, after five years of consistent support, am I looking at some other options? Yes, period, no ifs, no ands, and no buts about it.”

In 2007, Dr. Railey entered the public health field through the St. Louis County Health Department, where he served as director of research and medical operations. In 2010, he switched gears to the academic arena.

He started leading SLU’s Multicultural Affairs office and became an associate professor of community and family medicine.

A St. Louis native, he graduated from the St. Louis College of Pharmacy in 1972. He went on to receive his MD from the University of Missouri at Columbia School of Medicine and completed his specialty training in the field of family medicine at the University of Florida Family Medicine Residency program.

After a year of volunteering with the National Health Corps, he moved on to community and group practices, which eventually led to a solo private

Mark Kasen, who teaches history at Vashon High School, said he’d like to have teachers from his and other schools in the “Superintendent Zone” meet with Adams on a regular basis to share best practices and strategies.

“My suggestion is that we find a way to engage the teachers with you directly to think about ways in which we can make this achievement that you want, and everybody wants, happen,” Kasen said. Adams will present a final

n “After five years of consistent support, am I looking at some other options? Yes, period.”

– SLPS Superintendent Kelvin Adams

version of the plan to the SAB on April 10.

Teachers, parents and others spoke against a proposal to bring in nonprofit organizations to run low performing schools in the St. Louis Public Schools during a public hearing on Thursday evening.

Mary Armstrong, president of the local chapter of the American Federation of Teachers, said a year simply wasn’t enough time for schools to move the academic needle before handing over operations to a nonprofit operator.

by Wiley Price

Miming the spirit

practice in 1984.

One recurring theme in his life has been his interest in community service and family social issues. In 1992, he began teaching medical students and resident physicians in the family medicine program at Forest Park Hospital (formerly Deaconess Hospital).

“If progress is being made, then give that time to take root and expand,” Armstrong said.

That was a sentiment shared by Valarie Williams, president of the St. Louis Public Schools Parent Assembly.

“You’ve got to give it at least three years to figure out, is this going to work?” Williams said. “What can I do differently? You have to give at least three years.”

After the forum Adams pointed to the Apollo 20 program in Houston, put in place during the 2010-11 school year, as an example where nonprofits have been able to move the academic needle.

The project is the brainchild of Harvard Economist Roland Fryer, who concluded in a paper published last December that the approach was working.

“Injecting best practices from charter schools into low-performing traditional public schools can significantly increase student achievement,” Fryer wrote.

A review by the Houston Education Research Consortium, a research partnership between Rice University and the Houston Independent School District, concluded that the approach yielded mixed results.

“Taken together, these strategies had positive effects on math gains but negligible effects on reading gains,”

This led to a clinical appointment with the SLU School of Medicine, where he served for seven years as director of the third-year training program for family medicine within the department of community and family medicine. He garnered local and national awards for his

according to the report published last month. “The strongest evidence reported is from the small group, high-dosage tutoring, which we recommend expanding to include reading as well as additional grade levels.”

work teaching medical students and in community service.

As a product of St. Louis Public Schools, Railey said he has long witnessed health disparities in his community. There’s a direct connection between poverty and bad health, he said.

About 100 people filled the auditorium at Vashon High School during the forum, and Adams acknowledged that none of the speakers favored the idea.

“You’d have to be a fool not to listen to comments from

Providing more job opportunities, as well as education, will help improve health in St. Louis. However, the issue is complicated.

“This is a problem that can only be defeated,” he said, “if everyone pitches in.”

“When people don’t have money, they make bad health choices,” he said.

credible people,” Adams said. “If I didn’t take their recommendations into some consideration, why even go through this process?”

Edited for length and reprinted with permission from news.stlpublicradio.org.

Spiritual dancer Madelyn Mickles, a member of Blow Your Trumpet Ministries, performed on Sunday at the 71st anniversary of “When Singers Meet” held at the newly renovated Westside Baptist Church, 4675 Page Blvd.

Photo

Former HHS secretary kicks off conference

Louis W. Sullivan addresses Assoc. of Health Care Journalists

By Sandra Jordan Of The St.

American

Louis

DENVER – Former U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Louis W. Sullivan was one of two special guests at the kickoff session of the Association of Health Care Journalists’ Health Journalism 2014 conference, held March 27-30 in Denver, Colo.

Sullivan was appointed to lead HHS by President George H. W. Bush and served from 1989 to 1993. Sullivan is a founder of the Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta and served as its president for more than two decades. He also was co-chair of

the President’s Commission on HIV and AIDS from 2001 to 2006, and chaired the President’s Commission on Historically Black Colleges and Universities from 2002 to 2009.

Following a welcome by Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper, the Q&A conversation with Sullivan touched on historic issues of race, segregation, health disparities and where the health system needs to focus in the future.

“We need to be sure that our population 50 years from now is educated and also has good health, and that population I going to be Latino, African-American, Native American,

Obituaries

George Charles Perry, Sr.

George Charles Perry, Sr. was born December 23, 1923 in St. Louis, Missouri to George Carlos Perry and Lillian Carol Cables. Both parents preceded him in death. He was the last survivor of his four siblings, Willie Mae Murray, Helen Jones, Mary Perry and a twin brother who died during childbirth.

George was educated in the St. Louis Public Schools attending Banneker Elementary School and Vashon High School. After graduation he joined the United States Army where he served in World War II in the European

fronts until his honorable discharge. Upon his discharge he married Carrie Lucille Taylor and of this union three children were born, Lillian Carol Perry Gray, George Charles Perry, Jr. and Deborah Ann Perry Harris, who preceded him in death. George was raised in the Union Memorial Methodist Church but later joined his wife and children as a confirmed Catholic at Most Blessed Sacrament Church.

He worked hard for many years as an over the road truck driver and in multiple other positions during a long employment career until his retirement. Anyone who knew him always knew that he was a man who lived life according to his own individual drumbeat. He heard his own tune and danced to it throughout his life. Among other things, he loved to perform

as well as white,” Sullivan said.

“So, from the standpoint of investing in our future as a country,

his own home improvements and remodeling. He loved to pursue all forms of information, philosophy and knowledge. His mind allowed him to live in a world neighborhood. He loved reading, traveling, scuba diving, paragliding and exploring other countries.

He had a lifetime love of cars and music. He particularly loved dancing and was an accomplished ballroom dancer. Until his health faded he enjoyed driving his recreational home across the country and Canada to visit places which sparked his curiosity. George was a one of a kind private man with huge determination and a large appetite for life. Most of all, he had an undying ambition and hope for the success of his family. For all his dreams and gifts to the family we stand in thankfulness and pride. God rest and keep his humble and extraordinary soul. He leaves to cherish his memory, his two remaining children, Lillian and George Jr., five grandchildren, David A. Harris, Carla M. Harris,

n “We as a country should not have 27 million people without health insurance.”

– Louis W. Sullivan

we need to be sure that all segments of our society are well-educated and also are healthy.”

He said these are the kinds of messages journalists can get out to the people.

“And people, if they know this and understand this and see where it is in their interest, they will get behind it,” Sullivan said.

“It’s in their interest because, if you have someone who is a

John E. Harris, IV, Natasha McLeod, Britt Inger Johnson (deceased), two great-grandchildren, Jalen Wright and Xavier Wright and a host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

Tommy Lee Manley Jr.

Sunrise: October 18, 1986

Sunset: April 5, 2010

Jr.

Flesh of our flesh and blood of our blood. Our hearts were broken when God called you home. We miss you a lot these days. We celebrate your eternal life anniversary and remember your birthday. Your memory lives on in each of our lives.

Parents, Tommy Sr. and Charlotte; sisters, Nickia, Tenitra and Imani; kids, Brayden, Tommy III and Taliyah

productive citizen, who is working, that person can be a client, can use your services, that person pays taxes to the government to support building highway or housing, etc.”

He supports the Affordable Care Act as a step in the right direction.

“My position is, sure it has imperfections, but let’s address those imperfections over time because we as a country should not have 27 million people without health insurance,” Sullivan said.

Among his current activities, Sullivan is chairman of the Sullivan Alliance to Transform Health Professions and is helping to establish a national health museum.

“The purpose of the health museum is to improve the literacy of Americans,” he said.

At a reception following the session, Sullivan autographed copies of his book, “Breaking Ground: My Life in Medicine.”

Gracie was born in Noble

Arkansas on August

the eldest of thirteen

later moved to St.

MO where she was raised and attended

She married Murry Hamilton, who preceded her in death. Their union produced six children, Shelia, Shirley, Murry Jr., Steven, Richard and Kathy. Gracie transitioned from labor to reward peacefully on Tuesday, March 18, 2014 to be with her Heavenly Father after a long illness.

Gracie Guerine Lewis Hamilton

Lake,

8, 1931, she was

children. She

Louis,

school.

George Perry Sr. Tommy Manley

Of dress codes, ‘rabbits’ and alleged racism

Last Thursday, the day the ribbon was cut at the new Ballpark Village downtown, one headline screamed, “Public Subsidies Underwrite Racist Dress Code in St. Louis Ballpark Village.”

This was The St. Louis American, right, calling out Cordish Companies, the developer of Ballpark Village, and their enablers in the Slay administration. Right?

Wrong. It was Bill Bradley a writer for Next City, an urbanist media venue based in Philadelphia that is better known for wonky think pieces than rabble-rousing rants for the brother in a sweat suit who wants to get his drink on, but can’t get into the bar because it doesn’t allow patrons who wear sweat suits.

Bradley lambasted what he called “the latently racist nighttime dress code” at St. Louis’ newest (albeit longdelayed) downtown party hub.

“Ballpark Village itself doesn’t have a dress code, but as the website notes, individual venues within the venue may enforce one. And hey, eight venues in the village – just about all of them, according to my count on the website – have an awfully stringent dress code for the types of bars generally populated by aggressively drunk guys in Ozzie Smith jerseys and cargo shorts,” Bradley wrote.

He then quoted the post-9 p.m. dress code:

“The following is not permitted under our dress code after 9 p.m.: sleeveless shirts on men, profanity on clothing, exposed undergarments on men, sweat pants, full sweat suits, excessively long shirts (when standing upright with arms at your side, the bottom of your shirt can not extend below the tip of your fingers), jerseys (sleeved jerseys are permitted in conjunction with a Cardinals game or any other major St. Louis sporting event), athletic shorts and excessively sagging pants or shorts bandanas.”

The ban on jerseys was not long-lived – it soon became evident to the dress codifiers in question that banning sports jerseys at a sports bar might not be good for business.

Bradley has been following Cordish – or did some homework.

“Baltimore-based developer Cordish Companies is the brainchild behind Ballpark Village,” Bradley wrote. “It’s the same firm that built Kansas City’s Power & Light entertainment district, which is currently facing two lawsuits alleging racial discrimination against black customers.”

The black dis name for “Power & Light” in Kansas City, by the way, is “Power & White.”

The allegations filed against Cordish in Kansas City go far beyond dress code. On March 10, The Kansas City Star reported on a “class-action lawsuit brought on behalf of African Americans who claim to have experienced racial discrimination at Kansas City’s Power & Light Entertainment District.”

The Star reported that petitioners allege a pattern and practice of “harassment, fraud, targeting, ejecting, exclusion, humiliation” for “the purpose of controlling and/or reducing/ limiting the number of AfricanAmerican patrons.”

These are really nasty claims. The Star reported that the petition alleges a “pattern and practice” at Power & Light of using white men as “rabbits,” people hired to create a disturbance leading to ejection or arrest of black patrons.

Cordish-related companies denied the allegations.

According to the Star, the attorney in the class-action suit, Linda Dickens, represents a separate plaintiff, Glen Cusimano, a former black employee in the district, who alleged a “rabbit” incident resulted in his firing. Cordish officials denied that too.

Bradley of Next City is

particularly upset to see another Cordish development going down the path of dress codes designed (Bradley claims) to exclude certain black people because the public helped to pay for Ballpark Village.

“The $100 million project received $17 million in state and local incentives approved by the Missouri Development Finance Board in 2012 –something that Cardinals president Bill DeWitt III called ‘a big relief,’” Bradley wrote.

That sets Bradley up for his closing zinger: “Taxpayers of Missouri and greater St. Louis, your hard-earned money is underwriting exclusionary sports bars with racist undertones.”

Post covers Philly blog

This biting protest from a blog in Philadelphia was ignored by the Post-Dispatch, right, just like it ignores all of The American’s reasoned attempts to point out racism at work in St. Louis civic life? Just like it ignored The American’s enterprise series on shaky minority inclusion efforts on the Ballpark Village buildout?

Wrong!

The Post-Dispatch found itself able to notice that Next City exists and produces arguments about race issues in St. Louis based upon publicly available facts. The

EYE wonder how that feels in Philly?

Tim Bryant of the Post reported on the Next City post – and the online comments on the post! – after giving Next City some love as “the excellent Philadelphia-based website that explores a variety of urban issues.” Bryant called Bradley’s biting analysis “an interesting take” – “interesting”! – which sounds a little like when the more conformist kids at school call the outspoken kid “different.”

Bryant mostly trots through Bradley’s post, like an overworked beat reporter making his own online post quota. He does add some relevant data, however. Bradley is hot that $17 million in state and local incentives paid for a gallery of establishments with these dress codes, but Bryant notes that public incentives for Ballpark Village “could eventually reach $183.5 million.”

You paid for it! as Elliot Davis would say. And you ain’t nowhere near done paying for it.

Bryant then descends to the extremely low depths of reporting the comments on another media venue’s website as news. The EYE suspects that quoting the comments explains why this piece of ephemera was blessed by Post editors, as the comments on Next City mostly have the grouchy Archie Bunker Democrat vibe often

shared by the Post and the Slay administration.

Here is a choice online comment on Next City by “jplogan,” which sounds like Jeff Rainford posting under an assumed name:

“It didn’t take long for the false racism charges to start. Think about it morons, if you were an entrepreneur (yes, I know that’s a big word, get some help with it if you need to), would you want to spend over 100 million dollars to start a business, just to have some low-life thug punks come in and destroy it? Secondly, the rule banning sleeveless shirts more applies to the redneck white trash folks, not blacks. For once, you liberals need to stop playing the race card and think rationally.”

Local reactions (and not)

So, St. Louis’ black elected officials rose to second this analysis by Bradley of Next City – or to defend the city’s newest big-ticket business partners? Right?

Not so much.

Comptroller Darlene Green declined to comment. Aldermanic President Lewis Reed had not responded by press time. Nor had state Senator Jamilah Nasheed who posed right next to her ally Mayor Francis G. Slay at the Ballpark Village ribbon-cutting.

The EYE suspects this is because these elected officials are not up for reelection and don’t see how they can win by taking a stand on this one.

State Rep. Michael Butler who has a Republican opponent in his heavily Democratic district – did respond to a request for comment on Next City’s post.

“Restricting taxpayers from visiting places they paid to

build with arbitrary dress codes is unjust, and should not be tolerated,” Butler wrote. “We will not reduce youth violence in this city by reducing the places youth can go.”

County Executive Charlie A. Dooley – who has both primary and general election opponents this year – delivered a more balanced response, through Linda Goldstein former Clayton mayor and Dooley spokesperson.

“I do not condone racial profiling or discrimination of any type,” Dooley said through Goldstein. “I do recognize the right of business owners to set standards in their own establishments. However, if these businesses feel the need to set a policy, I would expect them to enforce the policy equally with all patrons regardless of race, ethnicity, gender or any other factor.” Dooley is saying he “expects” these establishments to do the right thing. His primary opponent, County Council member Steve Stenger – who is not black – does not share this expectation. Stenger, too, has read the news out of Kansas City.

“Kansas City has had similar issues, and I would not like to see a repetition of what Kansas City had,” Stenger called to say. “Dress codes tend to be discriminatory in nature, and the dress codes at Ballpark Village seem particularly problematic and most assuredly discriminatory as to who is being singled out.”

“Most assuredly discriminatory”: that is the most biting quote on this matter outside of Philadelphia. Delivered by a white lawyer from South County gunning for the black country executive’s job. To borrow a phrase from Bryant and the Post: interesting!

St. Louis Cardinals owner Bill DeWitt Jr. holds the scissors as he cuts the ribbon during the VIP Opening of Ballpark Village in St. Louis on March 27. African-American support was provided by Otis Williams of the Slay administration (left) and Slay ally state Senator Jamilah Nasheed (right). Photo by UPI/Bill Greenblatt

NEWSPAPER IN EDUCATION

Planting the Seeds for Success!

SAINT LOUIS SCIENCE CENTER

We specialize in science fun!

We specialize in making science fun!

Harry’s Big Adventure:

Harry’s Big Adventure:

Investigate and explore over 700 interactive exhibits and take in a film one of world’s largest domed screens in OMNIMAX® Theater. Come, play and exercise your brain! General admission always free. slsc.org/nie4

Investigate and explore over 700 interactive exhibits and take in a film on one of the world’s largest domed screens in our OMNIMAX® Theater. Come, play and exercise your brain! General admission is always free. slsc.org/nie3

Nutrition Challenge:

When is the last time you tried a new food? Break into small groups and come up with a list of five fruits or vegetables that you have never tasted. Compare your list with those of the other groups. Now as a class, pick three of these that you

Exercise

My Bug World! presented by Terminix® is a multisensory experience that immerses you into the world of bugs. Harry the Chinese Praying Mantis and his bug friends will lead you through freestanding and interactive habitats in a hands-on, fun way!

My Bug World! presented by Terminix® is a multisensory experience that immerses you into the world of bugs. Harry the Chinese Praying Mantis and his bug friends will lead you through freestanding and interactive habitats in a hands-on, fun way!

Harry’s Big Adventure: My Bug World! presented by Terminix® is a multisensory experience that immerses you into the world of bugs. Harry the Chinese Praying Mantis and his bug friends will lead you through freestanding and interactive habitats in a hands-on, fun way!

slsc.org/hbanie1

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We even designed a cool poster you can hang in the classroom! We’re here to help you succeed, and there are even scholarships available. Just visit stlzoo.org/teachers or call us at (314) 646-4544 to learn more.

PRESENT: Healthy Kids is a weekly series that focuses on nutrition, exercise, safety and more.

Healthy Kids Kids

would like to try. Research to see which have some of the best nutritional content.

Write a letter to a few local grocery stores to see if one of them would be willing to donate the new, “adventure” foods for your class to

Here’s a great way to get some exercise while making a difference in the lives of others.

Get a wagon or small wheeled cart. Ask a parent to go with you as you walk around the neighborhood collecting donations for a group in need. Look in the newspaper (or online) for groups that could use some help. Some possible ideas include:

try. (Or perhaps your class could create another way to purchase these new foods.)

If a store does donate to your class, be sure to take a picture of your class tasting the new food and send it to the store’s manager along with a thank-you letter. Adding variety to your diet helps you eat healthier. Give it a try!

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

> Books and magazines for a local book fair.

> Canned goods for a food bank.

> Clothing for a women’s or homeless shelter.

> Toys or books for a charitable thrift store.

> What are some other groups who could use your help?

Walking briskly, boxing, bagging and loading the donations are a great way to increase your heart rate, burn calories, and help your community at the same time!

Learning Standards: HPE 1, HPE 2, HPE 5, NH 1, NH 8

charity that help. Think of real, actual projects you and your classmates

could plant flowers at a local park, or do you know of a nursing home that would love some spring decorations for its hallways? It doesn’t take much to lift the spirits of others around you.

Learning Standards: HPE 2,

Where do you work? I work at Barnes Jewish Hospital. Where did you go to school? I graduated from Central Visual Performing Arts High School. I received a St. Louis Board of Education Licensed Practical Nurse Diploma and Associate Degree in Nursing. I am currently completing my bachelor’s degree in nursing.

What does a lead charge nurse do? I work on the Neurosurgery Floor caring for people who have brain or back surgery. My job is to help people get better so that they can go home. I also supervise a group of team members and make sure that they have the tools and support they need to complete their jobs.

Why did you choose this career? I enjoy caring for people and educating them on how to improve their health. I also like that nurses have many options. They can work in clinics, hospitals, home care, or travel to different parts of the world.

What is your favorite part of the job you have? My favorite part of the job is providing excellent care for my patients and their families and being a mentor and support person for my team.

Learning Standards: HPE 6, NH 3

CLASSROOM SPOTLIGHT

Hamilton Elementary School 4th grade teacher

the St. Louis Public School District. Photo: Wiley Price / St. Louis American

SCIENCE STARS

AFRICAN-AMERICAN INVENTOR: Lonnie G. Johnson

Lonnie G. Johnson was born on October 6, 1949, in Mobile, Alabama. His father was a World War II veteran who worked at the local air force base. His mother worked two jobs: in a laundry and as a nurse’s aide. His family picked cotton in the summers. Johnson’s father was a skilled handyman and he taught the children how to build their own toys. Johnson took his sister’s doll apart, hoping to discover what made her eyes move. When he tried to cook rocket fuel, their house caught fire. Yet, there were many successful times, as well. Johnson built a go-kart and a chinaberry shooter. Chinaberries are small yellow berries that grow on trees in the South.

SCIENCE CORNER The Water Cycle !

Water is a very versatile substance. You can find it in three different states: liquid (the form of water you drink), solid (ice cubes are water in a solid form), and gas (fog, mist are examples). The water cycle is made of six processes: condensation, infiltration, runoff, evaporation, precipitation, and transpiration. Condensation—when a gas is changed into a liquid. Infiltration—rain water soaks in the ground through soil and rock layers.

rivers, ponds, and lakes. It returns to the earth as precipitation, such as rain or snow. Evaporation—the process where a water changes from liquid to gas. Precipitation—rain, sleet, snow, or hail that falls to the earth.

Transpiration—the process of evaporation of water as it passes through the roots, plant leaves, and into the atmosphere.

For More Information, Visit: http://www.ducksters.com/science/water.php. Teachers, here is a resource just for you: http://nie.jonesmedia.biz/doc/dpa/water_works_final.pdf.

Johnson attended Williamson High School, during a period of segregation. His idol was George Washington Carver, and he wanted to be an inventor. His teachers encouraged him to settle for being a technician. However, Johnson persevered and followed his passion for inventing. His friends gave him the nickname of “Professor” when he built an air-powered robot and represented his high school at the state level science fair. Johnson received a scholarship to attend Tuskegee University. In 1973, he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. Two years later, he earned his master’s degree in nuclear engineering.

Upon graduation, Johnson joined the Air Force as a systems engineer who worked with space shuttle missions. He was a part of the Strategic Air Command. Yet, he still continued inventing. He wanted to create an environmental heat pump that used water instead of Freon. In 1982, the prototype was complete and he decided to test it out in his bathroom.

Runoff—water runs off the land’s surface and into streams,

SCIENCE EXPERIMENT

In this activity, you will observe the movement of water as it travels through capillaries, in this experiment, the fibers of the paper towel. This is similar to the process where moisture travels from the roots to the rest of a plant.

Materials Needed:

• A Glass of Water

• An Empty Glass • Paper Towels

Process:

q Twist the paper towel to form a wick. The wick should be long enough to reach between the two glasses.

In this activity, you will practice converting liquid measurements. Remember, there are 8 ounces in a cup, there are 2 cups in a pint, there are 2 pints in a quart, and there are 4 quarts in a gallon. Using those standards as a guide, answer the following questions.

_________ pints = 2 gallons

_________ quarts = 10 pints

_________ gallons = 3 quarts

Learning Standards: I can read nonfiction text for main idea and supporting details.

The EScaping Water Test

w Place one end of the paper towel in the glass that is empty and one end in the glass that is filled with water.

e Observe the transfer of water. This will take a long time. Record your observations every 10-15 minutes.

Reflect: Describe the process that you observed as the water traveled from one glass to the next.

Learning Standards: I can follow sequential directions to complete an experiment. I can reflect on the results.

measurements

Learning Standards: I can convert liquid measurements using

When he aimed the nozzle at the bathtub and a very powerful stream of water blasted out, he knew he had inadvertently created the perfect toy. He tweaked the design and seven years later, the Super Soaker was available to the public. It has been ranked in the World’s Top 20 Toys every year since then.

Inspired by the success, Johnson started a company: Johnson Research and Development. His company has received 100 patents, including those for the ceramic battery, hair rollers, and the Johnson thermoelectric energy converter. In 2008, Johnson received the Breakthrough Award from Popular Mechanics. In 2011, he was inducted into the State Hall of Fame for Alabama’s engineers.

Learning Standards: I can read and comprehend a biography about a person who has contributed to the fields of science, technology, and math.

Use the newspaper to complete these activities to help you prepare for the MAP test.

Activity One —

I can read to identify main idea. I can make predictions and draw conclusions. I can identify figurative language and use it to create descriptive writing. Converting liquid

Create Your Version of the Story: Choose one news or feature story and identify the main idea. What opinions, predictions or conclusions can you draw from the story? After reading, create an outline, web or other graphic organizer for the story.

Activity Two — Write a Sports Story With Flair: Sports articles often have great examples of vivid, figurative language. Review a story from the Sports section with a partner and find that kind of writing. Underline descriptive words or phrases. Discuss why use of vibrant language is important in writing. Next, write your own descriptive paragraph about another sports event.

Learning Standards:

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

Danielle Watson helps with a STEM lesson on hearing using the newspaper with students Matthew Tankins, Rashad Hamilton, and Jordan Givens. The school is in

The Old Faithful geyser in Yellowstone National Park can spout water 52 meters in the air.

Business

Deaconess funds social change for children

Foundation announces justice-inspired grant opportunities

American staff

Deaconess Foundation is the first organization in Missouri to join Philanthropy’s Promise, an initiative led by the National Committee for Responsive Philanthropy.

The effort encourages foundations to maximize the effectiveness of their grants and generate the greatest impact in their communities by affirming that

n According to The Philanthropic Landscape, nine out of 10 foundations give less than 25 percent of their grant dollars for social justice.

at least 50 percent of their support goes to underserved communities and 25 percent to social change efforts, including advocacy, community organizing and public policy strategies.

According to The Philanthropic

Landscape, nine out of 10 foundations give less than 25 percent of their grant dollars for social justice.

“Our commitment to Philanthropy’s Promise was driven

Apprentice program coming to St. Louis

By Maria Altman

Of St. Louis Public Radio

Maxine Clark introduced Enstitute to the local startup scene a great job,’ but that’s not what’s happening right now. We’re just trying to create more options and allow people to explore more pathways and lead them, hopefully, to a more successful career and lifetime trajectory.”

A New York-based apprentice program aimed at giving young adults experience within innovative companies is expanding to St. Louis. Enstitute was founded in New York City by Kane Sarhan and Shaila Ittycheria in 2012. The goal was to help connect students who weren’t ready or interested in a traditional path to college get on-thejob experience with start-up companies and entrepreneurs. A second location was opened in Washington, D.C., in January.

Ittycheria is adamant that the placements Enstitute makes are not internships.

“It’s been very rewarding to see just how much this model works,” Ittycheria said. “Frankly, just what happens when you put a high-potential young adult under a founder or C-level executive who really takes them under their wing and, by exposing them to a broad suite of functional skills, how quickly they accelerate.”

Typically, participants are anywhere from 18 to 24 years old and have varying degrees of education. Of the first 11 students who began the program 2012, Ittycheria said all have jobs or have started their own companies, with the exception of one, who opted to go back to college.

“For us, college is not by any means the enemy. We just don’t think that it was meant for everyone and possibly not at the age of 18,” she said.

“It’s a very costly endeavor. We argue a lot of people say, ‘You go to college, you get

Enstitute has changed its business model in the few short years it’s been operating. What began as a two-year apprenticeship now lasts a minimum of one year with the option of a second year. Enstitute apprentices are paid by the companies with which they’re placed. The organization itself is a nonprofit and relies on donations. Right now, the organization is trying to expand to St. Louis, Boston and Los Angeles. The effort here was strongly encouraged by Build-A-Bear founder Maxine Clark. Clark introduced Sarhan and Ittycheria to people in the startup scene in St. Louis. She said so far the concept has been seized upon.

Also at the event announcing Enstitute’s plans to launch its first class of apprentices here in the fall will be more than a dozen venture capitalists from New York City.

“All these VCs are coming from the Enstitute’s established network to meet St. Louis companies because we believe in the ecosystem,” Ittycheria said.

Ittycheria said several local startups have committed to taking an apprentice, including FoodEssentials, TrackBill, and Pushup Social. Enstitute has verbal commitments for $100,000 in donations and needs another $100,000 to launch in September. To learn more go to www.enstituteu.com/.

Reprinted with permission from news. stlpublicradio.org.

by our faith heritage and core values, specifically our first value of justice,” said the Rev. Starsky Wilson, president of Deaconess Foundation. “Deaconess envisions a community that values the health and well-being of all children and gives priority attention to the most vulnerable. This means we must invest in building public will and systemic change.”

As a ministry of the United

State interviewing minority businesses

Input needed for statewide MWBE disparity

study

By Rebecca Rivas Of The St. Louis American

If minority businesses want to weigh in on the state’s future inclusion program, now is the time to do it.

As part of the statewide disparity study, Collette & Holt Associates will hold interviews with business owners and stakeholders between March 31 and April 10. The firm invites business owners, stakeholders, organizations and other interested persons to participate in the interviews, which will last approximately two hours.

Collette Holt, principal at Collette & Holt Associates

“We’ll be talking to business owners who have attempted to do work with the state and overall marketplace,” said Collette Holt, who is leading the disparity study contracted by the State of Missouri Office of Administration, “and with any barriers to the full and fair inclusion of all firms in state contracting opportunities.” Interviews will be conducted in Kansas City, Springfield, Jefferson City, St. Louis and Cape Girardeau.

Oliver Lake is touring Europe as part of the Eric Dolphy Project, also featuring members of Tarbaby. The St. Louis native is a widely celebrated jazz composer and saxophonist. The Eric Dolphy Project will play Geneva, Switzerland (April 13), Tours, France (April 14), Amsterdam, Netherlands (April 16) and three dates in Spain: Ourense (April 17), Barcelona (April 18) and Murica (April 19).

Jatonya ClaybornMuldrow was promoted to the rank of sergeant in the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department. She joined the department on March 2, 1998 and was commissioned as a police officer on August 6, 1998. She has served in the First District, South Patrol Detective Bureau and Intelligence Unit. Sergeant ClaybornMuldrow is now assigned to the Fourth District.

Richard Gray was appointed director of the Department of Public Safety for the City of St. Louis by Mayor Francis G. Slay. Gray is the former president of the St. Louis Police Board of Police Commissioners and former executive director of the St. Louis Gateway Classic Sports Foundation. Public Safety is the city’s largest department and includes the fire and police departments and the city jails.

Danielle Smith will be honored by the Saint Louis Crisis Nursery as one of its 2014 Young Professional Heroes for her contributions to saving babies’ lives and keeping kids safe. A member of Crisis Nursery’s Young Professional Board, she has advocated for Crisis Nursery children in the state Legislature and community, chaired events and donated her personal resources.

Air Force Airman

Jardin C. Hurst graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, San Antonio, Texas. He is the son of Rhonda Hurst of St. Louis and a 2011 graduate of Marquette High School. He completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness and basic warfare.

June McAllister Fowler was appointed to the 17-member St. Louis Airport Commission by Mayor Francis G. Slay. She is vice president of corporate and public communications for BJC HealthCare. The St. Louis Airport Commission is responsible for the oversight of all planning, development, management and operation of Lambert-St. Louis International Airport.

Are you on the move? Congratulations!

Photo by Evan Trowbridge

Jatonya ClaybornMuldrow

Richard Gray

Danielle Smith

Airman

Jardin C. Hurst

June McAllister Fowler

The Rev. Starsky Wilson, president of Deaconess Foundation, speaks on a panel at the Grantmakers for Effective Organizations

National Conference in Los Angeles with Kathleen Enright, president & CEO of Grantmakers for Effective Organizations; Julie Rogers, president & CEO of The Eugene and Agnes Meyer Foundation; and Carol Larson, president & CEO of the David and Lucile Packard Foundation.

Kane Sarhan and Shaila Ittycheria

Resist urge to tap retirement plans early

By Jason Alderman

I have yet to meet anyone who thinks they’re saving too much money for retirement. On the contrary, most people admit they’re probably setting aside too little. Retirement accounts must compete with daily expenses, saving up for a home, college and unexpected emergencies for every precious dollar.

If taking money out of your IRA, 401(k) or other tax-sheltered plan is your best or only option, you should be aware of the possible impacts on your taxes and long-term savings objectives before raiding your nest egg: 401(k) loans. Many 401(k) plans allow participants to borrow from their account to buy a home, pay for education, medical expenses or other special circumstances. Generally, you may be allowed to borrow up to half your vested balance up to a maximum of $50,000 – or a reduced amount if you have other outstanding plan loans. Loans usually must be repaid within five years, although you may have longer if you’re using the loan to purchase your primary residence. Potential drawbacks to 401(k) loans include:

• If you leave your job, even involuntarily, you must pay off the loan immediately (usually within 30 to 90 days) or you’ll owe income tax on the remainder – as well as a 10 percent early distribution penalty if you’re under age 59 ½.

• Loans cannot be rolled over into a new account.

• Some plans don’t allow new contributions until outstanding loans are repaid.

• Many people, faced with a monthly loan payment, reduce their 401(k) contributions, thereby significantly reducing their potential long-term account balance and earnings.

• Your account value will be lower while repaying your loan, which means you’ll miss out on market upswings. 401(k) and IRA withdrawals. Many 401(k) plans allow hardship withdrawals to pay for certain medical or higher education expenses, funerals, buying or repairing your home or to prevent eviction or foreclosure. You’ll owe income tax on the withdrawal – plus an additional 10 percent penalty if you’re younger than 59 ½, in most cases. Traditional IRAs allow

withdrawals at any time for any reason. However, you’ll pay income tax on the withdrawal – plus the 10 percent penalty as well, with certain exceptions. With Roth IRAs, you can withdraw contributions at any time, since they’ve already been taxed. However, to withdraw earnings without penalty you must be at least 59 ½ and the funds must have been in the account for at least five years.

To learn more about how the IRS treats 401(k) and IRA loans and withdrawals, visit www.irs.gov.

Further financial implications. With 401(k) and traditional IRA withdrawals, the money is added to your taxable income, which could bump you into a higher tax bracket or even jeopardize certain tax credits, deductions and exemptions that are tied

to your adjusted gross income. All told, you could end up paying half or more of your withdrawal in taxes, penalties and lost or reduced tax benefits.

Losing compound earnings. Finally, if you borrow or withdraw your retirement savings, you’ll sacrifice the power of compounding, where interest earned on your savings is reinvested and in turn generates more earnings. You’ll forfeit any gains those funds would have earned for you, which over a couple of decades could add up to tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars in lost income.

Bottom line: Carefully consider the potential downsides before tapping your retirement savings for anything other than retirement itself. If that’s your only recourse, consult a financial professional about the tax implications.

Jason Alderman directs Visa’s financial education programs. T

Business Briefs

RBC creates online Diversity Resource Center

The Regional Business Council has created an online Diversity Resource Center, http://diversityresources. stlrbc.org, a compilation of information about best practices that support business diversity and inclusion. The website serves as a “living database for professionals, organizations and industries throughout the region when considering how best to attract, retain, develop and promote diverse talent within the workforce,” the RBC announced. For more information, call Katie Kaufman at 314-225-2105 or visit http:// diversityresources.stlrbc.org.

Report:

Kansas tax cuts have not boosted economy

Kansas’ massive tax cuts have deepened the damage done by the recession to schools, colleges, universities and other key services and have failed to improve the state’s economic performance, according to a new report from the nonpartisan, Washington, D.C.-based Center on Budget and Policy Priorities.

“Kansas’ tax cuts have failed to provide the so-called shot of adrenaline to the state’s economy, and have left schools and other critical state services starved of the resources to meet the needs of residents in the years ahead,” said Amy Blouin, executive director of the Missouri Budget Project.

The Missouri Legislature is considering similar tax cuts.

“High-quality schools and colleges are a crucial building block of economic growth.” said Michael Leachman, director of state fiscal research at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. “By shortchanging these priorities, Kansas – and any state that follows in its footsteps – is setting itself up for trouble.”

Monsanto grants $2.5M to BioSTL

Monsanto Company gave a ive-year, $2.5 million grant to BioSTL to “support the nonproit’s work to promote regional economic growth and advance St. Louis’ standing as a leader in bioscience,” according to Monsanto.

“We see real momentum in St. Louis’ innovation economy – from new startups launching to growth at the region’s universities and major corporations – and BioSTL serves as a focal point for the varied resources and activities supporting bioscience entrepreneurship and industry growth,” said Deborah Patterson, Monsanto’s vice president of employee engagement and global contributions.

For more information, visit www.biostl.org or @ BioSTL on Twitter.

n “If you see a kid

and his parents are idiots.” – Charles Barkley

NCAA faces labor struggle from student athletes

College Athletics Players Association would be a game-changer

By Ishmael H. Sistrunk

It seems like every year around the time of March Madness, the discussion of whether to pay college athletes is rekindled. While NCAA football is the bigger cash cow, the NCAA Tournament captivates the minds of many and is the clearest example of the NCAA raking in money hand over fist on the backs of its studentathletes.

In 2009, it was the lawsuit of a former NCAA basketball superstar that really pushed the discussion into the limelight. Former UCLA standout Ed O’Bannon filed an anti-trust lawsuit against the NCAA over the right of the organization to cash in on student-athlete’s names, images and likeness without giving a dime to the individuals.

The water cooler is once again simmering this year with the fight Northwestern University studentathletes are taking in trying to form the College Athletics Players Association. Should they win the battle, college sports will change forever as students will have the right to collectively bargain for pay and privileges much like the NBA, NFL, NHL, MLB, etc.

Still, many people question whether college athletes should really get paid. They already receive a free education, right? Plus they are given free food, free lodging, free insurance, free travel, free books and a nice shiny diploma after a few years. On the surface, it doesn’t sound like a bad deal. However, Byrant Gumbel recently ran a report on Real Sports highlighting how many student-athletes are getting a raw deal when it comes to their education.

College athletes seek to bargain with greedy NCAA

By Mike Claiborne

While it has been a busy week for the NCAA, who will be going to the Final Four is certainly a second-place finisher when it comes to the real news. When the National Labor Relation Board in Chicago came down with a ruling that stated the Northwestern University football team does have the right to become a labor union, it was more seismic than any earthquake of recent memory.

This ruling means that the football team and athletes alike can be viewed as employees

for the university. That means they are entitled to enter into a collective bargaining situation that would address the likes of compensation, health care and other benefits afforded to union members. Universities around the country now have to scramble to see if there are laws in place to protect them should there be future actions by their student athletes.

If you say athletes should not be paid, shame

on you. The NCAA, universities and coaches rake in hundreds of millions annually, and the students are supposed to be happy because they are getting a “free” education? Consider the time a student athlete puts in for practice, training, travel and physical therapy. Where is the “free” part?

Parents who brag about little Johnny or Jamie getting a “full” ride four-year scholarship, you might want to read the fine print. The university often has the right to

Hello, NBA fans. It’s about that time of year again. We are in the home stretch of the regular season, and the playoffs are within sight. With that in mind, it is time for me to give you your annual reminder about that one team that always seems to go under the radar during the season despite its enormous record of success. Yes, folks, it is time for your yearly reminder about the San Antonio Spurs. I have been writing this same column in this same space at about the same time of

It should be no surprise that many schools began to secretly lower the educational bar after the NCAA began instituting graduation-rate requirements. Gumbel’s report showed how student-athletes at a number of universities were essentially forced into worthless classes and courses of study. Students weren’t allowed to choose their own classes or majors. They were assigned by coaches or academic advisors. Many were entered into Interdisciplinary or AfricanAmerican studies. The work was minimal so student-athletes could focus on the important stuff – hectic workout, film study and game the year since the late 1990s. Nothing has changed. There are many great storylines in the league this year, but there is always one constant. It is that one team that just rolls along, going about its own business while few are paying attention. That would be your San Antonio Spurs. The Eastern Conference is wrapped up in the two-team race between the world champion Miami Heat and the Indiana Pacers, who are desperately trying to get that top seed so they can have Game 7 of the Conference finals on their home court.

n I have been writing this same column in this same space at about the same time of the year since the late 1990s. Nothing has changed.

Manu Ginobili, plus future Hall of Fame coach Gregg Popovich at the controls. Parker is averaging a teamhigh 17 points a game while the ageless Duncan is averaging 15 points and 10 rebounds and Ginobili is averaging 12.

See INSIDE, B4 See ATHLETES, B4

Earl Austin Jr.

Ishmael H. Sistrunk

Mike Claiborne

Northwestern University quarterback Kain Colter is leading the charge for the College Athletics Players Association and the fight for a college bargaining process for NCAA athletes.

By Earl Austin Jr.

Hasan Houston passes at 55

Of The St. Louis American

Former University City

High basketball star Hasan Houston died on March 24, 2014 in San Jose, CA. He was 55 years old. Houston had been in failing health for a number of years.

Houston was a three-sport standout at U. City during the 1970s, but he really made his mark as one of the area’s top basketball players. A strong 6’2” guard, Houston was considered one of the elite scorers in the history of St. Louis prep basketball.

Whether it was in the gyms at U. City High, Allen Field House in Kansas, Carver Arena in Peoria, Ill, or the playgrounds of Eastgate and Heeman Parks in University City or the Pro-Am League’s in Chicago or on the West Coast, Houston’s game reached legendary status.

In a Facebook tribute to his late friend, former U. City standout Kelvin Peterson (Class of ’79) described Houston as “one of the best basketball players ever to come out of St. Louis, with New York handles and a St. Louis jump shot.”

As a senior at U. City in 1976, Houston averaged 31 points a game. He earned St. Louis Post-Dispatch All-Metro, St. Louis Globe Democrat AllDistrict and All-State honors for his tremendous scoring prowess. He once scored 55 points in a single game in high school.

“Hasan had real street-cred because he did it everywhere he went,” Peterson said. “It wasn’t at just University City High. He went everywhere in the city and dominated against the best players. He had that

ATHLETES

Continued from B3

preparation schedules.

We have seen the NCAA commercials with athletes proud of going pro in something other than sports. The NCAA is also proud to tout its “all-time high” graduation rates. But the hidden truth is that many of the increase in graduation rates are a product of schools gaming the system. Threatened with penalties, they simply have made it easier for student-

INSIDE

Continued from B3

The supporting cast continues to evolve around the Big Three as the Spurs are the league’s most balanced team. Third-year small forward Kawhi Leonard has battled some injuries this year, but he is still emerging as a young star in this league. The only snag in the Spurs’ season happened when Leonard was out with a broken hand. They were 8-6 in that stretch. He is that good. Free agent pick-up Marco Belinelli has been a real fine, averaging 11 points and shooting 45 percent from 3-point range. Danny Green can still light it up as a catchand-shooter 3-point marksman. Boris Diaw brings that veteran

swag about him which made him a great player. He was also a great competitor who hated to lose. Hasan had all of the moves. He made the game look easy.”

Houston also earned a scholarship to the University of Kansas, where he spent the first year of his collegiate career before transferring to Bradley University after the 1978 season.

At Bradley, Houston joined forces with another former St.

n “He went everywhere in the city and dominated against the best players.”

– Kelvin Peterson

Louis-area prep star, David Thirdkill from Soldan, to lead the Braves to the Missouri Valley Conference title and a berth in the NCAA Tournament in 1980. Houston averaged 9.9 points a game while shooting

athletes to graduate. Only now it’s not the gym teacher/high school football coach walking down to Mrs. Jefferson’s office to ask for her to let the star QB pass with a C in algebra so he can play in the big game. Now the coach is choosing the classes. Less algebra, more cow bell. No wonder these new college graduates are having so much trouble with their sham degrees. We live in the age of big corporations taking advantage of little people. The NCAA is no different. Back in the ‘50s or ‘60s, sports for education may have been an even trade. Today people can buy apparel, photos, videos, tickets and video games with a click of a button. Sports advertising dollars are plentiful, and the NCAA wants to maximize its profits on the backs of its hard working employees student-

leadership and savvy at the power forward spot. Tiago Splitter gives Duncan able support in the low post while reserve point guard Paddy Mills has come into his own, averaging 10 points while shooting 40 percent from 3-point range. The Spurs still run beautiful offense where the

52 percent from the field and 81 percent from the free throw line in helping the Braves to a 23-10 record.

As a senior in 1981, Houston averaged 11.1 points and 3.1 rebounds while

n When leagues sign million dollar television deals, student-athletes should get a cut. When jerseys, videos and memorabilia are sold, studentathletes should get a cut.

athletes.

Speaking of shady, moneyhungry folks, if this whole union thing doesn’t work out, maybe college athletes can rub their pennies together and lobby Congress. Think about it, if student-athletes are considered employees, the unemployment rate drops. That

ball is constantly moving and everyone seems to get open shots. They lead the league in assists and they have the highest scoring bench, which is a testament to their depth. They may not have the sexy names, but they play basketball in its purest form.

The Western Conference playoffs promise to be a battle

shooting 83 percent from free throw line in helping the Braves to an 18-9 record.

Houston was a fifth-round draft selection of the Houston Rockets of the National Basketball Association in 1981. Houston also received a free agent tryout from the Chicago Bears of the National Football League although he did not play college football.

On January 20, 2012, Houston received a special honor from his high school

has to be worth something at the polls. I’m not sure what the exact solution is, but there needs to be a wholesale change in the way college athletics is seen. If education is the reward, the NCAA needs to ensure that every student is getting a quality education, with postgraduation job placement or additional job training services included.

When leagues sign million dollar television deals, student-athletes should get a cut. When jerseys, videos and memorabilia are sold,

royal with the likes of the OKC Thunder, Houston Rockets, Los Angeles Clippers, Golden State Warriors and Memphis Grizzlies waging some healthy battles. However, do not forget that one team that always seems to be around when the dust settles.

That would be your San Antonio Spurs.

basketball.

alma mater as University City’s renamed its basketball court Hasan Houston Court in a special court dedication ceremony. On that same night, a ceremony was also held for Houston’s high school coach, Ed Crenshaw, whom the gym was named in honor of. Services for Hasan Houston were held on March 29 at the Church on the Hill in San Jose, CA.

student-athletes should get a cut. Whether it’s in the form of a stipend, a trust, a car or cold, hard cash, today’s college athletes deserve more than they are currently getting. The only thing scarier than a group of young, angry, dedicated, strong and fit individuals is an organized group of young, angry, dedicated, strong and fit individuals. The NCAA better beware.

Follow Ishmael and In the Clutch on Twitter @ IshmaelSistrunk and on Google+.

A strong 6’2” guard, Hasan Houston was considered one of the elite scorers in the history of St. Louis prep

‘Fab Five’ Girls All-Star Team

Earl’s picks from the best in prep hoops in 2014

By Earl Austin Jr.

Of The St. Louis American

The members of the 2014 St. Louis American “Fab Five” Girls All-Star Team represent tremendous talent and winning ability.

Napheesa Collier and Nakiah Bell have brought the Incarnate Word Academy program to the top of the national rankings. Aaliyah Covington of Edwardsville has been a big part of the Tigers remaining a powerhouse program in Illinois. Braennan Farrar has spearheaded Miller Career Academy’s dominance in the Public High League, while Alesia Sutton has led a resurgence at Parkway North. Here is a capsule look at the five member of the 2014 St. Louis American “Fab Five” Girls All-Star First Team.

Nakiah Bell (Incarnate Word) – The leader and floor general for the Red Knights for the past four years, the 5’5” Bell was one of the top point guards in the Midwest region. As a senior, Bell averaged 12.7 points, 5.5 assists and 1.7

NCAA

Continued from B3

terminate that scholarship at their pleasure anytime they want to. They tend to renew scholarships yearly. Yet the clueless defend this institution as if it were the Vatican. For years we have been led to believe that players not getting paid was good for the spirit of college sports. If it’s all about spirit, why do coaches get fired when they do not win enough games to suit the university and its alums? If it’s just spirit, why do schools move from conference to conference and make it a priority to get to bowl games and the tournament where millions of dollars are waiting?

Spirit left the field a long time ago. It’s about making money, and that is ok as long as there is a better equity plan in place for the athletes. But the NCAA has people who programmed to spread the word about how having players unionize is bad for college sports. They have enjoyed the free labor for so long they think this is how it has to be. As for the college experience, it is a priceless one, as most athletes will never go on to the pros. All they will have are the great memories. Having the education should help pay the bills, as the memories do not. That is what college should be about. Once it was determined that a small fraction of the student body was exceptionally better at athletics and people would pay to watch them play, all bets were off. The face of this new labor movement for student athletes is Northwestern quarterback Kain Colter. The question was posed: Why did he wait until his senior year to mount such a movement? A simple answer: He wanted to continue to play football. He did not want to

steals while shooting 45 percent from 3-point range. She hit a total of 94 3-pointers, including several clutch treys in key moments. With Bell at the controls, the Red Knights have won three state championships and have achieved a national top five ranking on a consistent basis. She is headed to Iowa State University.

Napheesa Collier (Incarnate Word) –The 2014 St. Louis American Player of the Year, the 6’1” Collier has been a dominant force for the nationallyranked Red Knights. As a

run the risk of the ensuing politics ending his career. It is nice to see him put his college education to good use – education the NCAA must wish he had used for another cause. It’s not just the money. Other issues at stake, like life after football and the proper health care that should be made available. Football players have not proven to be the smartest group when it comes to business and how life works after they are finished playing. Just look at their salaries and what they give up compared to the other team sports on the pro level. Pro football players on average are the lowest-paid players among the four major team sports in America, and yet they have the shortest shelf life and suffer the most debilitating injuries.

This story will not go away. Other lawsuits will follow. The final stop could be the U.S. Supreme Court. That is if the NCAA and its member institutions do not see the light, strike a deal and rewrite

junior, Collier averaged 23.7 points, 10 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 3.8 assists and 2.3 blocks in leading IWA to a 31-1 record and the Class 4 state championship. Collier is being recruited by virtually every major college program in the country. She is already on the short list of top high school girls’ players ever to play in the St. Louis metro area.

Aaliyah Covington (Edwardsville) – The 5’11” senior forward is the third Covington to earn “Fab Five” honors, joining sister Anya (2007) and brother Garret (2013). As a senior, Aaliyah averaged 17.5 points and 5.2 rebounds to lead the Tigers to a 28-2 record and an IHSA Class 4 Sectional championship. She was an all-around athlete who excelled in all facets

some of its antiquated bylaws. The word “partnership” comes to mind. I look at the leagues on the pro side, and I see baseball with labor harmony where everyone is getting paid. I look at the NBA and how it has grown its relationship with its players to a multi-billion-dollar level. Hockey and football have had a harder struggle, as there are underlying issues with their leadership, hence the multiple lockouts and hard salary caps and other terms lead to confrontation and loss of revenue.

of the game for a dominant Edwardsville program. Covington is headed to Saint Louis University.

Braennan Farrar (Miller Career Academy) – A great combination of energy, talent and confidence bundled up in a 5’6” package, Farrar was one of the top guards in the state of Missouri. As a senior, Farrar averaged 20.7 points, 6.0 assists and 4.1 steals in leading the Phoenix to a 20-6 record and the Public High League title. Farrar also shot 41 percent from 3-point range. She enjoyed many top performances against some of the best teams in the state.

Alesia Sutton (Parkway North) – One of the top sophomores in the Midwest region, “Shug” was a dazzling performer for the Vikings.

n Spirit left the field a long time ago. It’s about making money, and that is ok as long as there is a better equity plan in place for the athletes.

She averaged 18.3 points, 3.6 rebounds, 4.8 assists and 3.7 steals in leading Parkway North to a 21-7 record and a berth in the Missouri Class 5 state quarterfinals. She also shot 53 percent from the field and 81 percent from the free throw line. Sutton is already on the radar of many top collegiate programs around the country.

St. Louis American “Fab Five” Girls All-Star Teams First Team Nakiah Bell 5’5” (Sr.)

Word Napheesa Collier 6’1”

The NCAA has a chance to fix it. It would start by eliminating those who are currently at the controls who have become delusional with respect to their role and the future.

New blacklist

When Philadelphia Eagle wide receiver De Sean Jackson was released, much to the dismay of many, it was not because of a lack of skill. It was circulated that Jackson was allegedly involved in gang activity in California. It shows that

the NFL and its member teams mean business when it comes to making sure players are not engaged in illegal activities on or off the field. That is what they want you to believe. Actually, a new way to blacklist a guy is now in play. The team never said it officially, but if anyone wanted to know off the record, that is what the deal was. If you knew the guy had issues and you can prove it, then just cut him, say why and move on.

Commissioner Pete Rozelle dealt with players who had gambling and organized crime ties in the ‘60s. Perhaps fear of a lawsuit comes into play? Maybe the issue was really about money, and the Eagles did not want to look like they were cheap in cutting one of their best players. Obviously the allegations about Jackson did not reach everyone, as other teams are already talking to him about a new deal.

Nakiah Bell

Aaliyah Covington

Napheesa Collier

Braennan Farrar

Alesia Sutton

Continued from B1

The disparity study will review the state’s minorityand women-owned business (MWBE) program and will help the state to establish new data-driven goals for contracting with minority and women businesses. Missouri state government last completed a disparity study in 1996, and that’s how state officials established its 10 percent MBE and 5 percent WBE goals on all government contract spending. However, the 1996 study is now considered out-of-date. The study will compare

CHILDREN

Continued from B1

Church of Christ, the foundation has invested more than $72 million to improve the health of the St. Louis region since 1998. Wilson explained how Deaconess’ values inform its grantmaking to a gathering of more than 700 philanthropic leaders at the Grantmakers for Effective Organizations National Conference, March 10-12 in Los Angeles. On a small panel with the chief executives of the Packard Foundation (based in Los Altos, CA) and the Meyer Foundation of Washington, D.C., he described how the organization’s relationship with a progressive Christian denomination drives its resolve for the least in society. The social justice orientation is clear in the foundation’s recently announced funding opportunities. In addition to its signature organizational capacity building program, the Deaconess Impact Partnership, in 2014

the total number of MWBEs in Missouri to the number being used in state government contracts. Disparity studies

n Missouri last completed a disparity study in 1996, and that’s how state officials established its 10 percent MBE and 5 percent WBE goals.

provide legal validity to inclusion programs. They can also provide evidence of racial discrimination and bring about lawsuits from MWBE communities.

The 2010 disparity study

Deaconess will fund nonprofit advocacy for children, collective impact efforts and community mobilization. Unique, multi-year opportunities also exist for mission-related investment and expanding children’s health. The 2014 grant cycle for Non-profit Organization Advocacy, Collective Impact Network Capacity and Community Voice efforts opens Thursday, April 10 and closes Friday, May 9. An official request for proposals detailing the range of grants available will be published at www.deaconess.org on April 10, along with a modified version of the Missouri Common Grant Application.

The foundation will host three optional Lunch and Learn Sessions on April 15, 16 and 17 from 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. at the foundation offices, 211 N. Broadway. Seating is limited, so RSVP at event@deaconess. org. A special five-year health grant of $500,000 will be given in honor of the 125th anniversary of the Deaconess mission focused on the health of St. Louis and its vision to care for children. This gift will be made to a health care organization in the region

for the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) found racial discrimination in the department’s contracting process.

The study – contracted by IDOT in 2009 – found that disadvantaged business enterprises (DBEs) represent 25.55 percent of the available construction firms. However, they only received 8.25 percent of the construction prime contracts under $500,000 from 2006 to 2009, according to the study conducted by Mason Tillman.

Seating is limited and persons wishing to participate must register to attend. To reserve your place, email missouri_study@mwbelaw. com or call 855-692-3529.

committed to expanding care for the indigent. A select request for proposals will be issued on Thursday, April 10.

Small grants of up to $5,000 are available on an ongoing basis throughout the year. Decisions are made quarterly for support of projects and activities related to the Foundation’s vision. To be considered organizations should mail a letter of request, which includes a description of the need and project to the attention of the foundation’s president and CEO. In addition to its grantmaking, Deaconess seeks to improve the community through socially responsible investment practices, including mission investing. In 2014, the foundation will be seeking an investment opportunity of up to $250,000 with a non-profit partner that both strengthens the community and yields financial dividends to continue the foundation mission.

For more information about Deaconess Foundation or its funding opportunities, contact info@deaconess.org.

Financial Focus

By Courtney D. Bond, financial advisor

‘Millennials’

must plan for short- and long-term goals

of

If you’re one of the “millennials” — the generation that began in the early 1980s — you are still in the early stages of your career. Retirement must seem like a long way off — yet, it’s never too soon to start planning for it. At the same time, though, you may also have shorter-term goals. Can you make progress toward your near-term and long-term objectives at the same time?

Yes, you can — but you’ll need to match your short- and long-term goals with the appropriate savings and investment vehicles.

For example, one of your most important short-term goals may be purchasing a house, so you’ll need to accumulate a certain amount of money by a certain time — perhaps in three to five years. Therefore, you won’t want to risk your down payment on an investment whose price will fluctuate — and whose value may be down just when you need the money. Consequently, you may want to look for a shorter-term investment whose objective

Maurice’s moments

Photographer shares his history in pictures at Portfolio Gallery

By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American

“I’m calling it ‘Moments: The Time of Your Life’ because I’m showing people’s lives here in St. Louis and how I documented them over the years – or a moment in time that was important to St. Louis, like Freeman Bosley Jr. running for mayor,” said longtime photographer Maurice Meredith.

Meredith wanted to present the St. Louis he’s seen over the years

“Moments: The Time of Your Life” opens at Portfolio Gallery (3514 Delmar Blvd. in Grand Center) with a special reception on Saturday, April 5 from 7 p.m. – 9 p.m., and continues through May 30.

through his lens as his contribution to the 250th birthday celebration for the city. Portfolio Gallery’s Robert Powell approached Meredith about doing an

Indiana Rome crowned champ of Super Jam Madness

Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American

“This is the opportunity of a career – of a lifetime,” said Hot 104.1 Operations Manager Boogie D. “Whoever wins tonight will perform at Scottrade Center – the biggest stage in St. Louis.” It was well after midnight Tuesday at The Loft nightclub.

Nerves were racing among the local artists in the final four for Super Jam Madness – the talent competition that came with the prize of opening the show for Super Jam 2014. The annual summer concert series presented by the radio station has boasted some of the biggest names in R&B and hip-hop over the last six years – so many it’s easy to lose count.

plenty of people don’t know wishing and praying for their own place in Super Jam history when it moves to the Scottrade Center on June 21.

The first three acts were announced on Monday afternoon.

And Indiana Rome, Mookie Tolliver, Nephari and Yak Boy Fresh were competing to be the fourth name announced on the bill, along with Juicy J, K. Michelle and Kendrick Lamar. They were being judged by a panel of four – Finsta of AMP STL, producer B. Money, Kevin Johnson of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch and myself.

The truth is, R&B singers Tolliver and Nephari had their work cut out for them.

They were up against two artists who have been grinding the St. Louis hip-hop scene for the past few years. Although at polar opposite ends of the hip-hop spectrum, both had an equal shot at a spot for different reasons.

The real competition was among the rappers.

But the singers should have looked at Super

See SUPER JAM, C5

exhibit, and he happily agreed. The exhibit kicks off with an opening reception this Saturday, April 5 and will run through the end of May.

“The unique thing about the pictures I’m going to have at Portfolio is that a lot of them are going to be collages. And the collage either tells the story of that day or who the person is and what they’re about,” Meredith said. “This is also my 35th anniversary of being a freelance photographer, so I

See MAURICE, C5

By Kenya Vaughn Of The

“She thinks that because she’s ready to meet me in the bedroom at ‘hello,’ our relationship is all good,” this man said about his lady. I had to clean his quote up a bit to make it safe for Black and Single, but he really had my ear when he was talking about how he’s trying find an equilibrium in a woman –someone who handles things for the sake of the household and in between the sheets.

n “She said she couldn’t work, be a mother and go to school at the same time.”

According to him, swapping out one for the other has been all bad.

“My last lady would act like she didn’t want to give me none,” he said. “I thought that was the worst thing in the world at the time. But where I am right now, I’d almost be willing to take that over this.” He had three kids with his common law wife. They lived together for eight years and he says that while she was extremely stingy with the sex, she did more than her fair share on the home front –mainly making sure they both were in a place of growth. She was about her business and made sure he was too. While they were together, he finally finished his bachelor’s degree and even started taking courses towards his master’s degree. She finished her master’s degree.

Maurice Meredith with St. Louis Cardinals Vince Coleman, Ozzie Smith and Willie McGee in the mid-1980s. Photo courtesy of Maurice Meredith

National recording artist Tinashe with Yak Boy Fresh, Mookie Tolliver, Nephari and Indiana Rome a.k.a. the Super Jam Madness Final Four Tuesday night at The Loft. The contestants were competing for a chance to perform along the likes of Juicy J, Kendrick Lamar and K. Michelle and many more as show opener for Hot 104.1 FM’s Super Jam 2014 when it goes down June 21 at Scottrade Center.

Photos by Lawrence Bryant

Indiana Rome

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

Through April 5, Jazz at the Bistro presents Cyrus Chestnut Trio with Russell Malone. 3536 Washington Ave., 63103. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.

Fri., April 4, 8 p.m., The Peabody Opera House presents BB King. 1400 Market St., 63103. For more information, visit www. peabodyoperahouse.com.

Fri., Apr. 11, 6:30 p.m., Black Alumni Council at Washington University presents Dinner and a Concert with Take 6, Friday evening, April 11, 2014, 6:30 p.m., Khorassan Ballroom, Chase Park Plaza Hotel, 212 N. Kingshighway. Tickets are $85-$125. For detailed information and/or to purchase tickets, please visit our website at: bac.wustl.edu or call the message center at (314) 9359676. Box ofice for tickets –(314) 935-6543.

Fri., Apr. 18, 7 p.m., The Ambassador presents Webbie & Zed Zilla. 9800 Halls Ferry Rd., 63136. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.

Fri., Apr. 18, 8 p.m., The Sheldon presents Brian Owens performing the music of Ray Charles. 3648 Washington Blvd., 63108. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.

Sat., Apr. 19, 8 p.m., The Sheldon presents Catherine Russell. 3648 Washington Blvd., 63108. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.

Sat., Apr. 19, 9:30 p.m., Jazz at the Bistro presents Poncho Sanchez and his Latin jazz band. 3536 Washington Blvd., 63101. For more information, visit www.jazzstl.org.

Apr. 19 & 22, Jazz at the Bistro presents SIUE concert

jazz band featuring SIUE alumni. 3536 Washington Blvd., 63101. For more information, visit www.jazzstl. org.

Fri., Apr. 25, 8 p.m., The Ambassador presents Lil Boosie. 9800 Halls Ferry Rd., 63136. For more information, visit www.metrotix.com.

Wed., Apr. 30, 8 p.m., Old Rock House presents Mobb Deep. 1200 S 7th St., 63104. For more information, visit www.metrotix.com.

local gigs

Fred Walker and his Saxy Jazz Music Show returns to Ms. Piggie’s Smokehouse on Sundays with the best in live and recorded Jazz and Gospel. 12noon - 4pm 10612 Page Ave. St. Louis, Mo. 63132 call (314) 428-7776 for information.

Sundays, 6:30 p.m. (6 p.m. doors) Jazz @ Eventide, featuring Black and White Trio. Sip N Savor, 286 DeBaliviere, 1/2 block north of the Forest park Metro link. For more information, call (314)361-2116.

Wednesdays, 6-10 p.m., Lexus Len’s “Winedown Wednesdays,” Live Band featuring: Cheryl Brown, Jeremiah Allen, Jeff Taylor, Gerald Warren & Amos Brewer, The Loft, 3112 Olive.

special events

Fri., April 4, 8 p.m., The Fox Theater presents St. Louis Teen Talent Competition. High school students compete at the Fox Theatre for college scholarships and prizes and will be judged by performing arts professionals. This Broadway-style family show is FREE and open to the public. Tickets are however required.

Calendar

527 N Grand Blvd., 63103. For more information, visit www.foxpacf.org.

Sat., Apr. 5, 8 p.m., Gateway Men’s Chorus presents I Am Harvey Milk. An 11-song oratorio narrating the life and contribution of the LGBT civil rights icon, this engaging, thought-provoking and inspiring piece will explore themes of hope, love, equality, and justice through original music written by Tony-nominated Broadway composer Andrew Lippa. The 560 Music Center Ballroom, 560 Trinity Ave., 63130. For more information, call (314) 289-4169.

Sat., April 5, 12 noon, Grand Slam Flea Market presents Spoken Word and Soulful Jams event. Featured artist will be the amazing Ground Floor Blues Band, Jazz Saxophonist extraordinaire Readus Miller, and several of St. Louis’ own most profound Poets. Grand Slam Flea Market, 10041 Lewis & Clark Blvd, St. Louis, MO, 63136 For more information please visit www. myfleamarketmall.com.

Sat., Apr. 5, 6 p.m., Ameristar St. Charles hosts Kids In The Middle Gala 2014 “Meet Me in St. Louis.”An evening of hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, dinner and auctions to provide counseling for kids in the middle of their parents’ separation or divorce. Ameristar Blvd., 63301. For more information, visit www. kidsinthemiddle.org.

Sun., April 6, 2 p.m., Four Seasons Hotel hosts Food Outreach “A Tasteful Affair 26.” Food Outreach’s largest annual fundraiser featuring signature tastings from 40 restaurants and caterers and 100’s of unique auctions items. The Roaring 20s is the theme of this year’s event. 999 N. Second St., 63160. For more information, visit www. foodoutreach.org.

Tues., Apr. 8, 10 a.m., Beyond Housing Spring Into Action: Back to Work Job Fair, featuring employers and educational services together to offer entry level jobs and employment readiness services. There are workshops on financial management and homeownership. St. Vincent Community Center, 7335 St Charles Rock Road. For information contact Ted

Simpson at 314.862.0639 or tsimpson@beyondhousing.org

Fri., April 11, 7 a.m., Renaissance St. Louis Airport hosts Breakfast with the INN CrowdBreakfast Gala to Benefit Homeless Children. With the involvement of more than 60 interfaith congregations, Room at the Inn offers temporary, emergency shelter for women and families, up to 20 people each night. All proceeds from the breakfast will benefit the homeless of St. Louis County. 9801 Natural Bridge Rd., 63134. For more information, visit www.roomstl.org.

April 11- April 13, 30+

Promotions presents the 15th Annual STL ATL Hoops Getaway, prices include: bus transportation, drink passes, five star hotel accommodation, party passes and a ticket to the Atlanta Hawks vs Miami Heat. For ticket prices and more information, call Rod at (314) 779-7655; Thrill at (314) 2295267 or (314) 348-1884.

Fri., Apr. 11, 7 a.m., Renaissance St. Louis Airport hosts Breakfast with the INN CrowdBreakfast Gala to Benefit Homeless Children. With the involvement of more than 60 interfaith congregations, Room at the Inn offers temporary, emergency shelter for women and families, up to 20 people each night. All proceeds from the breakfast will benefit the homeless of St. Louis County. 9801 Natural Bridge Rd., 63134. For more information, visit www.roomstl.org.

Fri., Apr. 11, 6:30 p.m., Washington University Black Alumni Council 30th Anniversary Celebration with special guests Take 6. Chase Park Plaza Hotel, 212 N. Kingshighway Blvd., 63108. For more information, call (314) 935-9676 or visit www.bac.wustl.edu.

Sat., Apr. 12, 9:30 a.m., Ritz-Carlton hosts Together! Engaging Women & Empowering Girls. This event raises funding for Safe Connections, the region’s oldest and largest locallyfounded agency focused on preventing, ending and helping survivors of domestic and sexual violence. Speakers include Fox 2 news reporter Kim Hudson, young indie-pop artists Bella and Lily Ibur, and former Missouri Senator

Betty Sims. 100 Carondelet Plz., 63105. For more information and reservations, contact Allison at allison@ safeconnections.com.

Sat., Apr. 12, 10 a.m., Crestwood Community Center hosts Annual Easter Egg Scramble. Children ages 2 to 10 are invited to bring a basket and hunt eggs, visit with friends and the Easter Bunny. Tickets will be available for Crestwood Residents at $2 and NonResidents for $4 from February 10 to April 10. PreRegistration is required. In the event of rain, the event will be moved inside the Community Center. 9245 Whitecliff Park Ln., 63126. For more information, call (314) 7294860.

Sat., Apr. 12, 11 a.m., United 4 Children in Celebrating the Week of the Young Child, includes Fun arts & Crafts, music, reading free books, visit the Fire Engine and Firefighters. PRIZES, Toy/ Game Raffle and PLENTY of FREE TAKE-AWAYS, Lucas Crossing Elementary School, 7837 Natural Bridge Road, 63121.

Sat., Apr. 12, 5 p.m., North County Resource Center’s 2nd Annual Honorarium Gala, Yacovelli’s Restaurant, 407 Dunn Rd. Florissant, MO 63031. For tickets, visit KTF Empowerment Center, 13063 New Halls Ferry Rd. or call (314) 736-1378.

Sat., Apr. 12, 6 p.m., Soulard Preservation Hall hosts Once Upon A School. Celebrating 20 years of providing a unique educational experience for children at Shining Rivers Waldorf School. Come hear the stories of past and present at the annual live auction event. All of the members of the community are invited as they turn the page and enter their next 20 years. 1921 S. Ninth St., 63104. shiningrivers. org.

Sat., Apr. 12, 6:30 p.m., The Chase Park Plaza hosts SouthSide Gala Dinner and Auction. Supporting and celebrating 128 years of service for South St. Louis children and families. The evening includes: live and silent auctions, hors d’oeuvres, three course dinner, premium open bar, complimentary valet parking. Cocktail (semi-formal) attire. 212 N.

Kingshighway Blvd., 63108. For more information, visit southside-ecc.org.

Sat., Apr. 19, 10 a.m., Forest Park hosts Kids Bunny Run. This run will cater to children ages 4-12. They will complete 4 silly themed challenges at stations along the “bunny” trail and will be awarded prizes. At the completion of the Bunny Run, a complimentary breakfast item and a beverage will be served. For the adults, there will be a Hops Run 5k. Macklind Dr. and Union Dr., 63110. For more information and to register, visit www. hopsrunstl.com

Sat., April 19, 3 p.m., Ramada Plaza Hotel hosts 2nd Semi-Annual Handwork of a Housewife/ Momtrepreneur Fashion Show & Auction. Original, high-end, hand-made women’s apparel in addition to various vendors, shopping and a bite or two of hors d’oeuvres being served. A portion of the proceeds will go toward starting a “Clara Mae Ross Fund” to help Widows, Elderly, and the poor. All are welcomed. 811 N 9th St., 63101. For more information, visit www.eventbrite.com.

Mon., Apr. 21, 9:30 a.m., The Magic House presents Egg Roll. In the great tradition of the White House, The Magic House, with its own replica Oval Office located in the Museum’s Star-Spangled Center, is inviting children 12 and under to roll up their sleeves and participate in an egg-citing race as they use large spoons to roll their eggs across the finish line. All egg-tivities are free with Museum admission and no reservations are required! 516 S. Kirkwood Rd., 63122. For more information, call (314) 822-8900.

Thurs., Apr. 24, 6 p.m., 360 St. Louis Hilton at the Ballpark hosts Annual Sip Into Spring Tasting Event at 360. Enjoy amazing views of the city while sampling wine and taking in the beautiful spring weather. The exclusive wine tasting event will also provide a preview of Three Sixty’s new spring menu. Sip on incredible Bommarito wines and then vote for your favorite. Tickets include samples of wine and select new menu items. One S. Broadway, 63102. For more information, visit www.360stl.com.

Thurs., April 24, 7 p.m., The Family Arena hosts Family Feud Live. Complete with big laughs and big money, contestants will have an opportunity to be grouped into their new stage show “family” and compete for cash and prizes in gameplay taken directly from the Emmy award-winning TV show. 2002 Arena Parkway St. Charles, 63303. For more information, visit www.metrotix .com.

Fri., Apr. 25, 11 a.m., Centene Corporation and Home State Health Plan present The St. Louis American Foundation’s 14th Annual Salute to Excellence in Health Care Awards Luncheon. Hilton St. Louis Frontenac, 1335 S. Lindbergh Blvd., 63131. For more information, call (314) 5338000 or visit www.stlamerican. com.

Jazz at the Bistro welcomes Cyrus Chestnut Trio with Russell Malone (top, right). See CONCERTS for details.

Apr. 25 – 26, The Fox Theater presents Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. 527 N Grand Blvd., 63103. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.

comedy

Sat., Apr. 5, 7 p.m., Humor for Hire presents The Clean Comedy Series: Family Funny hosted by DeAndre Whitner. A clean comedy show for all ages to enjoy. Featuring national and local comedians sure to keep you laughing. Kranzberg Arts Center, 501 N. Grand Blvd., 63103. For more information, call (314) 329-1503.

Sat., April 12, 8 p.m., The Chaifetz Arena presents St. Louis Comedy Festival. St. Louis Comedy Festival featuring Sommore, Bruce Bruce, Earthquake, Arnez J, Gary Owen, and Tony Rock. One S. Compton Ave., 63103. For more information, visit www.thechaifetzarena.com.

Thurs., Apr. 24, 7:30 p.m., The Fox Theater presents Aziz Ansari. 527 N Grand Blvd., 63103. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.

theatre

Apr. 9 – 27, The Black Rep presents The Trials of Brother Jero. This play depicts a delightful day in the life of an evangelical con man, forced to deal with creditors, politicians, and the endless temptation of beautiful women. Emerson Performance Center, Harris Stowe State University, 3026 Laclede Ave., 63103. For more information, call (314) 534-3810 or visit www. theblackrep.org.

Fri., Apr. 25 5 p.m., WPT & 3E Events presents “The Juice Box Diaries.” The Juice Box Diaries is an episodic play based on Sharon McGhee’s Pocketbook Monologues. Each of the monologues deals with an aspect of the feminine experience, touching on matters such as love, relationships, and matters of the heart. Event will be held at the Village Theater 6500 Old Missouri Ave., Centreville, Illinois 62207.

literary

Sat., April 5, 6 p.m., Metropolitan Artist Loft hosts a book release party for April Floyd, daughterin-law of the legendary blues singer and writer, Eddie Floyd has released her new novel entitled, Unique. Unique, April Floyd’s first novel, introduces the readers to sixyear-old Unique, a girl who has seen much more than her

young eyes would betray. 500 N Grand Blvd., 63103. For more information, visit www. aprilfloydbooks.com.

Wed., Apr. 9, 7 p.m., Lisa Lillien signs and discusses The Hungry Girl Diet. The #1 “New York Times” bestselling author of the Hungry Girl cookbooks now delivers the first-ever meal plan based on the concepts that have satisfied millions: “The Hungry Girl Diet”! Lisa Lillien has taken her famous super-sizing techniques, diet philosophies, and delicious recipes, and she’s put them into a foolproof four-week jump-start plan to help you lose weight effortlessly. Dierbergs, 1080 Lindeman Rd., 63131.

Mon., Apr. 14, 7 p.m., St. Louis County Library hosts author Ron Suskind, author of Life, Animated. Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Ron Suskind presents the inspiring story of life with his autistic son, Owen, and how they learned to connect and communicate through Owen’s fascination with animated movies. Library Headquarters, 1640 S. Lindbergh Blvd., 63131. For more information, call (314) 994-3300.

Through April 3, An Activist Voice: The Art of Nanette Carter and Howardena Pindell. Instructional Resource Building, St. Louis Community College, Florissant Valley Campus, 3400 Pershall Rd., 63135. For more information, call (314) 513-4861.

Through April 11, Art of Africa. Featuring over 100 pieces of beautifully crafted art and artifacts from the African continent, many made using wood indigenous to the areas of Africa in which they were created. The DeToye Student Gallery will feature the work of Liberty Middle School students. Edwardsville Art Center, 6165 Center Grove Rd., Edwardsville, IL. 62025. For more information, call (618) 655-0037.

Through April 12, 10th Street Gallery’s presentation of “Women in Textiles,” featuring 4 multi-talented women artists. Exhibit runs through April 12. 419 N. 10th Street. For more information, visit www.10thstreetgallery. com

Through May 18, The St. Louis University Museum of Art presents Tradition Redefined: The Larry and Brenda Thompson of African-American Art. The Thompson collection includes the work of notable artists, as well as those by artists who have been considered emerging, regional or lesser

known and has typically not been recognized in the traditional narratives of African-American art. 3663 Lindell Blvd., 63108.

lectures

Fri., Apr. 4, 8:15 a.m., Breaking Down Barriers to Housing Opportunities: A Community Workshop This full-day workshop brings together community members, leaders, organizations, policy makers, and advocates to explore barriers to equal housing in the St. Louis region and create collaborative community action plans to overcome barriers and increase access to opportunities for all people. Missouri History Museum, 5700 Lindell Blvd., 63112. For more information, call (314) 534-5800 ext. 7012.

Wed., Apr. 9, 8:30 a.m., Women’s Voices Raised for Social Justice and Vision for Children at Risk presents Safe & Sound: Smart Strategies to Protect Children from Gun Violence A major program focusing on gun violence as a public health problem. Speakers: Dr. James Mercy, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Dr. David Jaffe, St. Louis Children’s Hospital; Lt. Janice Bockstruck, St. Louis Police Dept.; Dr. Saaid Khojasteh, psychiatrist; Dr. Tiffany Anderson, superintendent of Jennings Schools, and James Clark, Better Family Life. J.C. Penney Conference Center, UMSL, One University Blvd., 63121. For more information, call (314) 863-1247.

Sat., April 12, 9:30 a.m., Ritz-Carlton hosts Together! Engaging Women & Empowering Girls. This event raises funding for Safe Connections, the region’s

Season 3’s Sunday Best Winner Le’Andria Johnson will be in concert to honor the 60th birthday of the Pastor of Rev. Dr. Ronald L. Bobo, Sr., pastor of West Side Missionary Baptist Church. For more information, see SPIRITUAL.

oldest and largest locallyfounded agency focused on preventing, ending and helping survivors of domestic and sexual violence. Speakers include Fox 2 news reporter Kim Hudson, young indie-pop artists Bella and Lily Ibur, and former Missouri Senator Betty Sims. 100 Carondelet Plz., 63105. For more information and reservations, contact Allison at allison@ safeconnections.com

health

Thurs., April 3, 1 p.m., Kirkwood Community Center hosts Better Choices, Better Health® – Diabetes. This evidence-based workshop is free to any adult with type 2 diabetes. It is offered as part of a research study conducted by Stanford University and funded by the National Council on Aging. 111 S Geyer Rd., 63122. For more information, call 1-855-8056168 or visit www.oasisnet. org.

Sat., Apr. 5, 10: 30 a.m.,

Larry Hughes Foundation presents J Walk’N Organ Donor Registry Drive. Fox 2’s April Simpson will serve as the 2014 Grand Marshal. Organ Donor Registry Drive is more than a walk-a-thon– it’s a challenge to the students of America to be mindful of the power of organ donation. Parkway North Highschool, 12860 Fee Fee Rd., 63146. For more information, visit www. larryhughesworld.com.

Sat., April 5, 9 a.m., Tower Grove Park hosts Sprint for Skin Cancer 5K Run/3K Walk. Please join efforts to raise money for skin cancer research by participating. All proceeds benefit skin cancer research at the Siteman Cancer Center and Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis. For more information about the raffle, with a grand prize valued at $1,000, and other information, visit www.spots.wustl.edu.

Sun., April 6, 7:30 a.m., Tower Grove Park hosts Race for Jane 5K Walk/ Run. A 5k with a purpose, each runner will attach a story card to their race bib and run in honor of an anonymous survivor of sexual violence. 2853 S Grand Blvd., 63118. For more information, visit janedoeadvocacy.wordpress. com.

Wed., Apr. 9, 6 p.m., Support Group for Survivors of Sexual Abuse. If you are a survivor of sexual abuse or have been indirectly affected by sexual abuse, please join us for a confidential support meeting. Every age and gender are invited to come. St. Louis County Library, 7606 Natural Bridge Rd., 63121. For more information, call (314) 2929793.

Fri., April 11, 4:30 p.m., Abundant Life Fellowship Church hosts Most Powerful Voices Gospel Concert & Health Fair. Join the American Heart Association/ American Stroke Association for an evening of inspiration featuring Gospel Legend, Yolanda Adams. This event

is designed to educate the African-American community about the risk factors associated with stroke. 6055 Parker Rd., 63033. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.

Sat., Apr. 12, 11 a.m., The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society presents 4th Annual Hunt for a Cure. The LLS Bunny will arrive via helicopter to greet thousands of children who will be hunting for 60,000 eggs! Egg-citing activities include appearances from your favorite nursery rhyme characters, face painting, educational health booths, a petting zoo and photo opportunities with the LLS Bunny. Queeny Park, 550 S. Weidmann Rd., 63021. For more information, call (314) 422-4075

Sat., Apr.5, 6 p.m., Grammy Award Winner, Stellar Award Winner & Season 3’s Sunday Best Winner Le’Andria Johnson will be in concert to honor the 60th Birthday of the Pastor of the West Side MBC, Rev. Dr. Ronald L. Bobo, Sr. at the newly renovated Page Campus, 4675 Page Blvd. Call the church office for ticket information at (314) 535-9002.

Sun., Apr. 13, 11 a.m., Blessed Hope MB Church hosts a Sunday Brunch, Savoy Banquet Center. For more information, Call (314) 600-3099.

Sun., Apr. 20, 4:30 p.m., St. Louis presents A Time for Singing Gospel Music Competition and Showcase 2014. A Gospel Talent Contest to provide an outlet and platform to give young aspiring gospel music artists the opportunity to perform and expose their talents to a live and wider audience, 3520 N. Newstead Ave., 63115. For more information, visit www.atimeforsinginggospel.

Antoine

The Saint Louis Area Brain Bee

Hi, I am a teenager in the YES (Youth Exploring Science) Program at the Saint Louis Science Center. As a YES teen, I have opportunities to participate in a variety of programs, and I would like to tell you about one of those programs. The Saint Louis Area Brain Bee is an annual completion in which local students from various high schools come to exhibit their knowledge on the basis of a wide array of neuroscience concepts. The winner of this competition advances to the national level, where they are tested amongst the other 1st place competitors from all of the locally held Brain Bees in the United States. 1st place at nationals earns that individual a slot in the international Brain Bee competition. Students who compete study for months out of Brain Facts, which is an information book, densely packed with details covering various topics about the brain and nervous system. This book is generously provided by the Society of Neuroscience, who revise and reissue the book every few years as the world of

neuroscience acquires new information about this complicated body system. On the day of competition, students are first provided with a 50 question multiple-choice exam, in which they are given 45 minutes to complete. This exam is said to be a difficult feat, even for those who are enrolled in graduate programs for majors in neuroscience. The top ten scores from the written portion advance to the oral round. During the oral round, competitors are exposed to various questions that increase in difficulty. The competitors are disqualified after three incorrect answers are displayed.

Antoine

The last competitor remaining is declared the winner of the Saint Louis Area Brain Bee for that year and their name is displayed on a plaque amongst winners of previous Brain Bees. They are then awarded an all-expense paid trip to the national Brain Bee competition. This year, a total of 48 high school students participated in the Brain Bee, the largest turn out recorded since the Brain Bee competition was established 4 years ago. I encourage all St. Louis area teens to participate in this event, which is held every year. More information can be found at http://biology4.wustl.edu/SLABB/.

Adults are children’s biggest problems

When I saw crime tape draped around the steps to the apartment building next door to the Rowan Community Center, I couldn’t fathom what may have happened but I knew it wouldn’t be anything good.

The center is home to a number of groups I belong to, and I have witnessed the surrounding neighborhood’s fair share of violence. I was totally unprepared to later hear that a baby had been beaten to death by her stepfather for alleging getting a piece of cake without permission.

Deonte Evans has been charged with the murder of Jabria Phillips, a month shy of her second birthday. In addition to the recent blunt force trauma, the autopsy also revealed signs of previous physical abuse. That abuse allegedly occurred with the knowledge of her mother, Shanikia Evans, who was charged with child endangerment.

The growing trend of mothers’ boyfriends and stepfathers killing their children is a tragic one, adding to the other ugly stats of child abuse. I often say that adults are children’s biggest problems – adults who are emotionally or mentally unhealthy, irresponsible or apathetic.

abuse or neglect are not even recorded as such on their death certificates.

Black and brown communities are too familiar with gun violence; it is the leading cause of death for teens of color. The CDF cites young black males die from gun violence at a rate 2.5 times higher than Latino males, and eight times higher than white males. Gun injuries are suffered by black teens at a rate ten times higher than white teens.

About a year ago, the Center for American Progress released a report analyzing gun violence and gun laws in all 50 states based upon 2010 data. In its report “America Under the Gun,” Missouri was found to be one of the 10 worst in several areas, including overall firearm deaths, homicides and suicides. The report also noted that Missouri’s high rates of gun violence were accompanied by weak gun laws.

In America, we love our guns. The right to bear arms is protected by the Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. But I think most sane and civilized people can agree that kids and guns don’t go together. We have more than our share of reports to validate this fact.

By Melanie Adams

History Museum is happening

Events galore this weekend

As I sat down to write this week’s column, I realized that we have so many great events that I couldn’t just write about one. This weekend we have something for everyone, so instead of writing about one event, I will write about a few events.

On Friday, April 4 the museum welcomes back the Metropolitan St. Louis Equal Housing and Opportunity Council for their conference Breaking Down Barriers to Housing Opportunities: A Community Workshop In its 17th year, this conference brings together community members, leaders, organizations, policy makers, and advocates to creatively collaborate by developing community action plans to overcome barriers and increase opportunities. This is a full day session features speakers and action-focused work sessions addressing key topic areas affecting our neighborhoods and community.

Saturday, April 5 brings back the popular clothing swap, Swap-O-Rama-Rama. This annual event continues to enjoy a large following in the community and grows more each year. Participants are asked to bring a bag of clean, unwanted clothes to contribute in exchange for the opportunity to looking for your next “new to you” outfit. Once you find your items you can take them home or head into the sewing room to make them uniquely yours through alterations and fun sewing notions. The event welcomes clothing, accessories, and shoes from women, men, and children. The shopping starts at noon and ends at 4 p.m. All remaining items will be donated to local charities to benefit the St. Louis community.

On Sunday, April 6 the museum is happy to once again be a part of the St. Louis Humanities Festival. This year the festival focuses on migration and how it has helped to shape the region and the country. To talk specifically about African American migration, the museum will have a lecture by Dr. Spencer Crew, former director of the National Underground Railroad Museum and a professor at George Mason University. Entitled, In Search of a Better Life: African American Migration in the 20th Century, his lecture will explore the reasons why large numbers of African Americans left the south for a better life up north.

The next history museum column will again be by our wonderful Teens Make History writing about local civil rights leaders. I hope you have enjoyed reading the wonderful columns researched and written by our young historians.

Finally, since my next column won’t run until early May, I am pleased to announce that Twilight Tuesday will begin at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, April 22 with The Michael Fitzgeral

George Mason University, will speak on “African American Migration in the 20th Century” at Missouri History Museum on Sunday, April 6.

Jazz Explosion-A Tribute to Miles Davis and David Sanborn. For the full spring schedule, please check out the museum’s website at www. mohistory.org.

Breaking Down Barriers to Housing Opportunities: A Community Workshop Presented by the Metropolitan St. Louis Equal Housing and Opportunity Council Friday, April 4th Lee Auditorium 8:00am to 4:00pm To register and for pricing information please visit ehocstl.org

Swap-O-Rama-Rama

Saturday, April 5th

Lower Level of the Museum Noon to 4pm • FREE

In Search of a Better Life: African American Migration in the 20th Century Part of the St. Louis Humanities Festival Presented by Spencer Crew, PhD Sunday, April 6th 3:00pm • Lee Auditorium • FREE

On the eve of National Child Abuse Month, the heartbreaking news of 11-year-old Antonio Johnson hit the airwaves. Antonio was shot in the head as he sat at his home computer. It is believed that the innocent youngster may have been caught in the middle of a shooting retaliation.

According to the Children’s Defense Fund (CDF), four children die every day as a result of child abuse; eight are killed by guns daily. Now Antonio and Jabria have been added to those grim statistics.

A report of child abuse is made every 10 seconds. About 70 percent of children that die from abuse are under the age of 4 years old. It is estimated that over half of child fatalities due to

There’ll be a number of activities going on during National Child Abuse Month such as Safe and Sound Smart Strategies on April 9 at the University of Missouri sponsored by Women’s Voices Raised for Social Justice and Vision for Children at Risk. I believe we could all use additional help in identifying abuse and the potential dangers children face in their homes, schools and places of worship, and the resources needed to ensure the safety and well-being of our most vulnerable citizens.

Our concern for child safety must go beyond the month of April. This city and our society must show a daily resolve for addressing issues that endanger our children’s lives and compromise our future.

Dr. Spencer Crew, former director of the National Underground Railroad Museum and a professor at

Watkins Junior, YES Teen

Watkins

Jamala Rogers

Jam Madness as a learning opportunity – mainly from their competitors Rome and Fresh – to see the importance and weight of creating hometown buzz by relentless local show appearances and honing one’s performance craft.

As far as the true battle goes, Yak Boy Fresh was up first.

He brought his own DJ, hype man and even his own super-sized vinyl backdrop. He came out with the look of any given pop star or boy band lead singer. But he also brought the confidence and swag of an R&B heartthrob coupled with the energy of a hip-hop artist who is dedicated to the craft, but with extreme crossover appeal.

In the five minutes he was given, Fresh did three selections – including a freestyle that gave his DJ (DJ Perception) some time to shine.

He had a flow that one couldn’t be mad at. It definitely had pop appeal, but Fresh didn’t neglect his North County (or “NoCo,” as he referred to it in his rhyme) roots. There was something “so St. Louis” and nothing corny about what might have come across as a gimmick at first sight.

Rome followed immediately afterwards on the stage and couldn’t be any more different in his approach to hip-hop.

He hit the stage wearing what he probably had on all day. And the only thing he brought with him was a crowd.

The Indianapolis native has built a local following as an underground hip-hop artist in St. Louis, and they rushed to the stage to show their support.

Dozens of fans, followers and fellow rappers nodded their heads, had their hands in the air and rapped along like they were watching a hip-hop icon deliver classics.

He jumped into the crowd of his colleagues and disciples and

joined in the energy. And when he jumped on top of the beat for his second selection “Cloud Nine,” Rome had the whole venue in his hands.

“He went all the way in,” host Staci Static said as Rome left the stage.

National recording artist Tinashe performed her debut single “2 On” as the scores were tallied. It was a two-horse race, but neck and neck in my opinion.

“Who is it?” “Who did y’all pick?” “Who you got?” strangers filed up and audaciously asked judges and station staff.

The suspense was palpable.

Indiana Rome walked away with the win. As “Cloud Nine” played in the background, he raised his hands and gave a “big up” to the sky. As the track continued and the audience grooved, one couldn’t help but anticipate how well the song would resonate with the Super Jam crowd when Rome makes his Super Jam debut at Scottrade.

Super Jam 2014 will take place on Saturday, June 21 at Scottrade Center starring Juicy J, Kendrick Lamar and K. Michelle and Super Jam Madness 2014 Winner Indiana Rome. Tickets go on sale Friday, April 4 at ticketmaster. com, Ticketmaster outlets and the Scottrade Center box office.

Continued from C1

They had risen through the ranks of their respective positions, had a home to die for and had children who were excelling in school. They were the anti-stereotype for teen parents.

“By the time we broke up, I was a different person,” he said. “I wanted different things out of life – and I went for them. I saw myself working towards our American dream. She definitely upgraded me.”

He cheated on her once, and she forgave him for the greater good of her vision for their family. He cheated again,

MAURICE

Continued from C1

thought this would be a great time for something like this.”

Part of the reason for the collages is to accommodate the sheer mass of photos he has racked up over the years as a freelance photographer and regular contributor for The American.

He’s captured enough moments through photos to make his own history volumes featuring St. Louis from the early 1980s through now.

“I’ve scanned my negatives for the past four years and have over 60,000 pictures organized on my computer and backed up on my hard drive – and I’m still not finished,” Meredith said. “They tell the story from the beginning of my photography to now. I kept every negative that I’ve ever taken.” Meredith calls himself a photo documentarian, and has as many stories about his career as a freelance

and she ended it.

“I just wasn’t getting my physical needs met,” he said.

“I tried to talk to her about it. She tried to work on it, but I came to the conclusion that we just weren’t physically compatible and she made everything else about our family needs a priority but that.”

Five years later, he’s with his new boo. She is – in his words – TRG (timed and ready to go) in the bedroom. They have a son together. She’s in her late twenties and he’s in his late thirties.

The attraction was instant. The sex was great – and consistent.

The catch is she appears to not want anything more out of life than what she already has.

photographer as he has photos.

He talked about how it all began – when he was hired to be the photographer for an aircraft carrier during his days in the U.S. Navy back in 1979. His career has been one filled with serendipitous moments and blessed opportunities that had him in the right place at the right time in front of the right people – like the chance meeting at a St. Louis Cardinals open house that changed the course of his personal history.

He had turned away and was walking out when he ran into legendary pool player Minnesota Fats. He used his charm – and knowledge of pool – and walked back into Busch Stadium, introduced as Fats’ photographer.

That encounter led him to the opportunity of shooting the Redbirds as they won the 1982 World Series – and ultimately becoming a personal photographer for Cardinals legend Ozzie Smith.

From that relationship came lasting connections with many St. Louis staples over the years – including Anheuser-

When they met she was living at home working a job that’s decent, but not necessarily enough to truly contribute to an independent household.

“She talked a good game about going back to school for her LPN license,” he said.

“In hindsight I truly believe she was just telling me what I wanted to hear so I would move forward with our relationship. I even offered to pay for her to go back to school, but she said she couldn’t work, be a mother and go to school at the same time.”

He moved her into his place, and he’s singlehandedly carried the financial aspect of the household for four years – and has to prod

Busch executives.

“I became Wayman Smith’s photographer,” Meredith said.

“And when Wayman Smith retired, I became Johnny Furr’s photographer – and Johnny Furr took me halfway around the world.”

He has taken pictures of everyone from Ozzie to Obama. And even with the infinite photo ops he’s partaken in, selecting his favorite was simple.

“My biggest highlight was photographing Nelson Mandela,” Meredith said. “I said to myself, ‘That man is probably the baddest man in the world to go through all the stuff that he went through and now he’s going to be president of the country.’”

American columnist Jamala Rogers gave him a free ticket in the stands of Tigers Stadium in Detroit, where Mandela was speaking. Meredith spent $500 on a plane ticket (back in 1990) and worked Detroit officials for details and ended up in the same room with Madiba.

“I took pictures from the time he came in to the time

her to cook and do housework.

“It gets on my nerves,” he said. “She thinks she can sex her way into meeting me halfway.”

They had a house built last year and with it came a huge mortgage – which wasn’t a problem because of his salary. In January he was laid off. The mortgage isn’t going anywhere. And they are getting further and further behind as he taps out savings to make ends meet.

“Her little check can barely cover our cell phone bills,” he said. “I guess it took push comin’ to shove for me to see there is so much more to relationships than just two willing sex partners.”

he sat right in front of me,” Meredith said.

His joy for photography is felt each time he shares a back story on a particular picture. It’s like he’s describing a personal treasure and sharing it with the world.

“My thing about photography is that it can help people – it just makes people happy, because if you can take a great picture of someone it’s a memory for a lifetime,” Meredith said.

“You can see a person on the news and a tornado has knocked their house down, but they’re standing out front with their photo album saying, ‘As long as I’ve got Grandma’s pictures, it’s going to be okay.’”

“Moments: The Time of Your Life” opens at Portfolio Gallery (3514 Delmar Blvd. in Grand Center) with a special reception on Saturday, April 5 from 7 p.m. – 9 p.m., and continues through May 30. For gallery hours and more info, call 314-533-3323 or visit www.portfoliogallerystl. org.

Indiana Rome

Photo by Lawrence Bryant

~ Celebrations ~

Birthdays

All reunion announcements can be viewed online!

Beaumont Class of 1968 46th Reunion Family Picnic will be Saturday, June 7, 2014. Meetings to plan the picnic will be the 4th Saturday of February 22, March 22 and April 26, 2014 at 2 p.m. at STL County Library 7606 Natural Bridge.

For more information email bhsco1968@att.net or call 314 869-8312.

Sumner High School Classes of 1954 will celebrate its 60 year class reunion August 15-16, 2014 at the Sheraton Westport, Plaza Tower, 900 Westport Plaza. Contact Audrey Poindexter (314) 383-7174; ajpoin@att.net or Marlene May (314) 567-9629; onelene1@att.net.

Sumner High Class of 1974 has started planning its 40th class reunion. Meetings are held the third Saturday of the month from 2-4 pm at New Beginnings Missionary Baptist Church, located at 4055 Edmundson Rd., St.

Louis, MO 63134. For more information please contact Denise (Washington) Nicks at Sumnerclassof74@yahoo.com, 314-642-3366 or Joyce (Bush) Cruesoe at cruesoe2195@att. net, 314-484-1552.

Sumner High School Class of 1984 is planning a 30 year reunion for August 22-24, 2014. For more information please contact Priscilla (Ms. Prissy) at 314-556-3944, or Robin Allen at 314-369-9549.

Vashon High School Class of 1964 has planned their 50th reunion weekend for September 19 -20, 2014. Please call or email any changes to your address, telephone number and/or

James “Coody” Holcomb Jr. celebrated his 100th birthday on March 31. God bless you! Love, Your family

Happy 39th birthday to my wonderful and supportive husband, Andre Muhammad on April 5. You’re a great dad and partner. God blessed me! Love always, Nikki

Avery Racquel McClinton family would like to wish their “Avie Kitty” a big Happy 1st Birthday on March 29th. Your smile and giggles light up our home every day. We love you to pieces! Love, Your Mom and Dad, your sister and brother

Monica KaMarla Williams (16)—April 1 Eloise “Weedie” Bivens (81)—March 29

e-mail to Juliette Johnson at 314-781-2233 or jj0119@ aol.com or Thelma Hall at 314-869-4609 or tabbeytt@ prodigy.net or visit Facebook page: Vashon Class of 1964, for activities and updates.

Vashon Class of 1965 is planning for the 50th Class Reunion. The planning meeting will be held on Saturday, March 29, 2014 at the Walnut Park Library, 5760 West Florissant at 2 pm. Classmates are encouraged to attend. For information call Cleo Sanders Chairman (314)383-1934.

Vashon High Class of 1974 has started planning its 40th class reunion. Meetings will

be held the second Sunday of each month, 3 p.m. at the Gateway Classic Sports Foundation, 2012 Dr. Martin Luther King, St. Louis, MO 63106. Classmates can provide contact information by joining the group page at Yahoo Groups - vashon74 or by email to ljbady@yahoo.com. For more information please call 314-382-0890 or 314-6405842.

Vashon Classes of ’74, ’75 and ’76 present “3 Classes Under 1 Roof” March 29, 2014, 7 pm., at the Gateway Classic, 2012 Dr. MLK Dr., BYOB, Donation $10-$15 at the door. For tickets call: 314505-3823.

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

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

Pastor Emeritus Joel Kelly Davis (Pastor of Grace M.B. Church for 48 years), celebrates his 99th birthday with his 10 children, family and friends on April 5, 2014. He is three years widowed to beautiful always

First Lady Juanita Kathleen, wife of 52 years, shown here. Dad and Mom, we will love you both forever. Thanks for truly being “old school” parents.

Pastors urge congregations to get ‘Money Smart’

Sunday, April 6 will mark a Unified Message Day, bringing together local

throughout the St. Louis community to raise their

voices from their pulpits, urging families to

toward a healthier financial lifestyle. This effort is all a part of “Money Smart Week, April 5 through April 12. Money Smart Week was developed as part of the BankOn Save-Up initiative along with the partnership of the St. Louis Regional Unbanked Task Force. This third annual event will stress the importance of financial literacy, inform consumers about where they can get help, and provide free educational seminars and activities. Local financial institutions will offer valuable tools and solutions to help families learn how to budget, save, plan for their future and become financially fit.

“It is time to be proactive in turning our financial woes into financial success,” said Veta Jeffery, St. Louis Regional Unbanked Task Force Steering Committee member and co-chair of the Faith-Based Initiative.

“We understand that it

Foundation building with 30

takes a village to raise a child but it also takes a village to sustain a community and keep it moving upward.”

A breakfast was held on March 13 at the St. Louis Gateway Classic Sports Foundation building, with 30 pastors and bank representatives in attendance Jeffery said the clergy breakfast “was the first of several steps to developing solutions to address the mindset and habits of the impoverished as well as the working poor.”

When families lose or reduce their primary or only source of income, the stress of trying to meet the financials needs of the household often takes a serious

toll in the form of mental health problems, divorce and more.

“An individual’s selfconfidence and inner security is often compromised because of financial insecurity ” said Doug Petty, senior pastor of Fresh Start Bible Church and a Christian counselor

“Substance abuse, gambling, the use of pawn shops and payday loans increase dramatically as a result. Those in the role of pastor must see this as a biblical mandate because it impacts the whole person.”

Participating churches preaching the Unified Message on family finances on April 6 include: Trinity Mount Carmel

Baptist Church, Hopewell Missionary Baptist Church, Word of Life Christian Church

The Antioch Baptist Church, Central Baptist Church, Ramoth City of Refuge C.O.G.I.C

Fresh Start Bible Church, Star Grace Missionary Baptist Church Third Presbyterian Church, Inspiring You Christian Church Christ The King United Church of Christ Cote Brilliante Presbyterian Church Refuge & Restoration Church, Solomon s Temple Church and Rescued Church. For more information, visit MoneySmartWeek.org.

So what’s the point? I mean salvation, born again, new life, faith, love thy neighbor as thyself stuff, spiritual principles and eternal existence and their meaning. When all is said and done, when it really comes down to it, what is life all about?

For me, one of the glories of being delivered is recognizing the precious nature of existence. I believe I exist at the absolute whim of God.

And before you think me frivolous or simple minded, let me define that for you. I define that whim as God’s unconditional and explicit love for me. A so-called great philosopher once said, “I exist, therefore I am.” I believe I am because God said so.

I mean, like when you were little, very little and someone disputed your word and your only response was,

“Uh huh! It’s true because my mama to told me.” That was it. Regardless of whatever other nonsense was spoken at you, the truth rested comfortably in your mama’s word.

So here we are, living, breathing creatures in a universe we didn’t create and have no control over.

I submit to you that God’s Word about us is certainly as pure as your mother’s.

“Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the

matter. Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every deed into judgment including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil.” In many ways God tells us over and over again such simple truths that we forget the concept of delayed gratification in favor of instant pleasure. The world promises finite flesh, while the Lord delivers infinite spirituality. I heard a preacher once say, heaven is one big “now.” Existence in heaven knows no boundaries of time, no past, no future; just now. At times, it is quite unimaginable to try and comprehend God, but I do know Jesus is Lord. Jesus is man. Jesus is me or I am Him. That’s my reality, and following God’s commandments is my map. Can you say I am because he said so? If not, just say I am because He is. This unconditional love thing, coupled with the power of God, is contagious and infectious. It will all come to a head at the moment of death, and I will know the essence of how much God loved and loves me. My goal

(no more than 400 words) as a Word document and pasted text to cking@stlamerican. com and attach a photo of yourself as a jpeg ile. Please be patient; we will run columns in the order received.

James A. Washington

The St. Louis Regional Unbanked Task Force and its Faith-Based Initiative recently hosted a Unified Pastors Breakfast at the St. Louis Gateway Classic Sports

pastors and bank representatives in attendance

Celebrity Swagger Snap of the Week

Sisqo, lead singer of R&B group Dru Hill was flanked by a handful of beautiful fans as he mixed and mingled at Super Smooth and S&R Promotions official “R&B at its Finest” concert after party Saturday night at Lola.

Biz at the Marquee. For the second week in a row I made my way to the all-new club Marquee. This week it was to see how my nemesis Biz Markie would fare as the celebrity DJ. I have had a bad taste in my mouth about him since he slept through his set at our Salute to Excellence in Education After Party some years back. He was handsomely paid too. We would have been better off buying an iPod Nano and shuffling through it all night and keeping the change instead of suffering through the snooze fest he served our guests. I know I’m bringing up old stuff, but I still feel a kind of way about it. I stepped up in the place and it wasn’t as crowded as I thought it would be, but the whole venue was filled with bosses and beauties – and beautiful bosses. And it went beyond women being in real Red Bottoms…these women could truly afford to have them on. Like the lovely Arika Harris…girl those Decolette (by Christian Louboutin) black patent leather pumps gave me so much life that I’m putting them on my “If I win the lottery” list. Biz did “aight,” but he didn’t outwork DJ Cuddy – the house DJ for the Marquee on Friday nights.

Super Jam and the Madness. For the second week in a row I also had to sneak out the side door during Friday festivities so that I could be nosy on Saturday morning for the second batch of Super Jam Madness preliminary auditions. This go round they were held at Cuetopia II where management was trying to ruin my diet with those delicious shrimp. We had an R&B phantom who sang with his entire face covered like the Grim Reaper. My first thought was “this has to be the most dramatic way to cover up a pimple in the history of entertainment.” He didn’t sound bad, but that was too much. Just about everybody else was either in the trap, in the club, turned up or all the way live. There was one young man who was even “charged up” – which he said was completely different from turned up, but it meant the exact same thing. At the end of the day it would be singer Nephari and rapper Indiana Rome to join singer Mookie Toliver and rapper Yak Boy Fresh in the finals. The final round took place on Tuesday – and Hot 104.1 FM announced Juicy J, Kendrick Lamar, K. Michelle as the first round of Super Jam acts and that Super Jam would be moving to the Scottrade (mark your calendars for June 21). The four performers took the stage at The Loft for a shot to open Super Jam 2014. Honestly, the R&B acts paled in comparison to Yak Boy Fresh and Indiana Rome. Yak is what would have happened if Kanye West or Drake would have got hold to Justin Bieber instead of Usher. And I’m not the least bit mad about it. And Rome stays in the zone – Tuesday night at The Loft was no different. I wouldn’t have been upset if either one of them had won – because I think they both have big things in store. But Rome took home the title of Super Jam Madness champ. Congrats to all the finalists and I know Rome is going to rip the roof of the Scottrade on June 21.

A fine dose of R&B. I also made my way to the Ambassador for the “R&B at its Finest” tour on Saturday. There was far too much lag time; however as a whole the show wasn’t bad at all. J. Holiday almost had me interested and Jessie Taylor and DJ Kut proved to be the perfect time killers. If the tour had any sense if it’s really a tour they would take Jessie and Kut on the road. When Jessie said some unfortunate fluffy woman was going to explode out of her Body Magic like a peeled back roll of biscuits, I got so weak I thought they would have to carry me out. And the old school dance-off feature the crouching twerk master auntie was everything. But back to the actual concert. Even though I don’t think they sang a whole song the entire time they were on that stage, Dru Hill killt (yes, with a “t”). They did one verse versions of about twenty songs – and their tribute to the other R&B groups like Jodeci and Mint Condition had me howling and body rolling to my own remix to “Forever My Lady” in the bathroom at church. What? Only God can judge me. And Johnny Gill looked like he got a subscription to Curves and worked one on one with Jillian Michaels or participated in a secret season of Celebrity Fit Club last year because he was back in the best singing shape I’ve seen him in since the first New Edition reunion. He sounded great too –though I wish he hadn’t decided that he was going to be a Jamaican and carry on with “Slow and Sexy” for 15 minutes. I won’t ever understand why he didn’t close the show with “My My My.” I guess he wanted the last thing on our minds to be him rubbing us the right way.

Eye Candy’s continued winning streak. It looks like the best thing Mo Spoon and the MPAC crew could have done was mosey on down to the Coliseum and move the Eye Candy Party to Saturday. Because ever since they’ve done so, the Eye Candy gatherings have been cracking. Based on the outfit selections there was a whole lot of low self-esteem, insecurity and daddy issues among the female guests. One poor soul was just a few bedazzled patches away from being completely nude in a transparent nylon cat suit. One wrong move to “Stripper Bop” and all her lady business would be in the streets. It was still all good in there – and I have to give Mo Spoon props for his longevity.

R&B after hours with Dru Hill. Super Smooth and S&R Promotions teamed up for the official Dru Hill after party at Lola. While I haven’t always been kind to Sisqo and his glow stick antics and matching hair game I must say he earned a special place in my heart by the way he got down and had the VIP area _____(insert new slang for “turned up”). And when he broke out with the “Nae Nae” dance… he was my new celebrity crush. My only wish in life is that there was a way to make the dance look more masculine. Oh well, I still caught life from my stolen late night moments with Sisqo at Lola.

Marquita, Jill and Amber out enjoyed the chill of the Marquee’s ultra laidback atmosphere Thursday night

Spoken word artist Speakin Eazy with Tiffany Foote for Shift58’s Clockwork The Life of Tanqueray Event Thursday night @ The Marquee

Mo Spoon with Dani, the newest addition to the Eye Candy Model Team, Saturday night @ The Coliseum Photo by Arlis Davis

SJ and Brianne relaxing to the live band Friday night @ The Rustic Goat

Thanks to Dre’s invitation to work the tables, hiphop legend Biz Markie had the crowd rocking Friday night @ The Marquee

RCA recording artist Tinashe with Hot 104.1 FM’s Super Jam Madness Winner Indiana Rome Tuesday night @ The Loft

Comedian Jessie Taylor and singer J Holiday backstage during the “R&B at its Finest” Tour Saturday night @ The Ambassador

Tab and Dana came to get a heavy helping of slow jams courtesy of J Holiday, Dru Hill and Johnny Gill @ The R&B at its Finest Tour Saturday night @ The Ambassador

Travis and Brandi came through to hear some hip hop classics courtesy of Biz Markie Friday night @ The Marquee

Super Jam Madness contestants Asia Major and K Haze with Hot 104.1’s DJ Sir Thurl during the second set of preliminary auditions Saturday morning @ Cuetopia II

Photo by NightSociety

Photos by Lawrence Bryant

By Denise Hooks Anderson, M.D. Medical Accuracy Editor

You met the March 31st deadline and for the first time in many years you now have health insurance. So what do you do now?

First step

Speak with your friends and family and inquire about their doctors. Where are they located, are they still taking new patients, and how accessible are they? These are all crucial questions when choosing a new healthcare provider. You also want to know about their staff. No matter how much you may like your health professional, if their employees are rude and uncaring, their office may not be the right fit for you.

Another way to research this potential new provider is to “Google” them. You will be surprised at how much information is on the internet. Almost everything they have written and sometimes spoken may be on the World Wide Web. Check them out. This is also the time to check with your particular plan to verify that this doctor is actually on it.

Step 2

Call and make an appointment. If you have never had insurance, you may be

So what now?

accustomed to just “showing up” to any urgent care center or emergency room when you are ill. However, this is not how most doctors’ offices are run. You must make an appointment in advance. On the day of your appointment, please plan on arriving about 15-20 minutes early to complete paperwork. This new patient questionnaire will ask about your past medical history and surgeries, allergies, medications, past immunizations, and your family history. Be prepared. The longer it takes you to complete those forms, the more delayed your visit will be.

Step 3

Denise Hooks Anderson, M.D.

Make a list of those items you want to discuss at your visit. At this point you are probably excited to finally get a chance to address those ten concerns that you have been experiencing for quite some time. However, I encourage you to pick your top three. Most office visits are 15-20 minutes long and the simple fact that you have not seen a doctor in several years means that there are a lot of potential issues that will require more than one visit. Your doctor will probably

only address the life threatening problems first. All of the others will have to wait until subsequent visits.

Step 4

Learn how to be a good patient. Please be polite to the office staff. The nurses, medical assistants, and schedulers are there to assist you and they are not there to be the recipients of abuse. The nicer you are to them, the closer your prescription refill request gets to the top of the doctor’s pile. Patients have the right to fire their providers if they are displeased with their care. Similarly, doctors can fire patients for a host of reasons such as failure to keep scheduled appointments, inappropriate behavior like vulgarity, or misuse of controlled substances. Unfortunately, I have had the unpleasant task of severing patient ties for each of the above reasons in addition to one instance where a patient forged my signature.

Step 5

Understand how insurance and your doctor’s office works. Just because you wake up one day and think that you need a stress test does not mean that your insurance company will cover it. Every test that your doctor orders has to be associated with a diagnosis code and if the code chosen by your doctor does not meet the criteria for the test, your insurance company will not approve it. Likewise, falsifying documents such as handicap stickers, work excuses, and FMLA paperwork can cause your doctor to lose his/her license. Each of those

documents need legitimate excuses to accompany the paperwork. Therefore, please do not expect your doctor to provide you with a return to work statement if you have not been seen.

I also encourage new patients to learn the after-hours procedures. Every doctor must provide a number you can call when the clinic is closed in case you have a question or concern. Please use this “exchange” number the way it was intended to be used- not for life threatening concerns. Emergencies need to be handled by 911.

Final Step

Be proactive. Diseases are best treated by trying to prevent them! Schedule regular visits with your doctor so that problems are identified early and not when they are out of control. Stay current with preventative guidelines for colon, breast, cervical, and prostate cancer. And when you need medical advice, seek professional expertise and not the recommendations from your friends who never graduated from medical school! Visit reputable sites such as medlineplus.gov or cdc.gov not Wikipedia when you want evidence based medical information.

Having insurance is just one piece of the puzzle regarding wellness. The path to wellness is a process that involves many factors one of which is individual responsibility paired with a team of dedicated health professionals who want you not just to live but to live abundantly! Yours in Service, Denise Hooks-Anderson, M.D. Assistant Professor SLUCare Family Medicine yourhealthmatters@stlamerican.com

Your Health Matters

A bi-monthly special supplement of the St. Louis American April 3, 2014

Your Health Matters provides up-to-date information, from an African-American perspective, about one of the most important subjects in evryone’s life – their personal health.

Donald M. Suggs, President and Publisher

Kevin Jones, Senior Vice President, COO

Dina M. Suggs, Senior Vice President

Chris King, Editorial Director

Denise Hooks Anderson, M.D., Medical Accuracy Editor

Sandra Jordan, Health Reporter

Debbie Chase, Director of Health Strategy & Outreach

Onye Hollomon, Barb Sills, Pamela Simmons, Sales

Michael Terhaar, Art/Production Manager

Angelita Jackson, Cover Design

Wiley Price, Photojournalist

the

What’s good for your heart is good for your colon

By Sandra Jordan

Of The St. Louis American

Did you know that lifestyle changes that are recommended for your heart are the same ones recommended for good colon health? Eating plenty of healthy vegetables and fruit, reducing high fatty foods and exercising regularly covers a multitude of preventable illnesses.

Colon cancer is the third leading cause of death in men and women in the U.S. – and in developed nations.

In 2010, the American College of Gastroenterologists recommended that African Americans begin colon cancer screening at age 45, with other groups starting at age 50. For persons ineligible or unwilling to undergo colonoscopy screening, the College recommends a flexible sigmoidoscopy every five to10 years, or a computed tomography (CT) colonography every five years) or a fecal immunochemical test for blood (FIT).

“African Americans really should be screened by age 45, because, unfortunately, polyps occur at a younger age,” Saint Louis University gastroenterologist Mary Burton, MD, Burton is an assistant professor of Internal Medicine in the division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at SLU.

Colon polyps are growths on the surface of the colon, which is the large intestine. Benign polyps over time can become cancerous. Early screening, and the detection and removal of polyps reduce the person’s risk of colon cancer.

It’s important to know your risk for colon cancer, and what you can do to lower it. Factors include age, your medical history and heredity.

“Anyone who has had a polyp or cancer is at risk for another one,” Burton explained. “And their parents, siblings and children are all at increased risk.”

The National Institutes of Health says eating fatty foods, smoking, drinking alcohol, obesity and inactivity all

Ascending colon

Transverse colon

Descending colon

In 2010, the American College of Gastroenterologists recommended that African Americans begin colon cancer screening at age 45, with other groups starting at age 50.

n Colon cancer is the third leading cause of death in men and women in the U.S. – and in developed nations.

contribute to polyps, which contribute to colon cancer.

“They are finding out that a risk factor for colon cancer is diabetes,” Burton added. “So people with diabetes have to be very sure to get screened.”

Obesity is another risk factor, she said.

Colon cancer is considered a preventable disease.

“What we think decreases the risk… we tell people the exact same thing that

heart doctors tell people: diets higher in fiber, lower in fat, especially saturated fat and red meat …and exercise,” Burton said. “If you are being good to your heart, you are being good to your colon, as far as colon polyps and colon cancer.” And, she concedes, it’s really hard to get people to make those changes. But it is a necessary one. For more information, visit http:// www.cancer.org/cancer/colonandrectumcancer.

Mary Burton, M.D.

Appendicitis

Cecum

Rectum

Anus

Sigmoid colon

ACA adult preventive care services are without copayment

All Marketplace health insurance plans are required to cover the following screenings and services for adults without charging you a copayment or coinsurance when delivered by a network provider. And, this holds true even if you haven’t met your yearly deductible.

• Abdominal aortic aneurysm (one time only) screening for men between the ages of 65-75 who have ever smoked

• Alcohol misuse screening and counseling

• Aspirin use

• Blood pressure

• Cholesterol

• Colorectal cancer

• Depression

• Diabetes (Type 2)

• Diet counseling

• HIV

• Immunization – Vaccines for Hepatitis A,B, herpes zoster; human papillomavirus; influenza; measles, mumps and rubella; meningococcal; pneumococcal; tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis; and varicella

• Obesity screening and counseling

• STI, Sexually Transmitted Infection prevention counseling

• Syphillis

• Tobacco use/cessation interventions

For more information, visit https://www.healthcare.gov/ what-are-my-preventive-care-benefits.

Self-reported memory issues may predict future impairment

A recent study suggests that self-reported memory complaints might predict clinical memory impairment later in life.

Erin Abner, Ph.D, an assistant professor at the University of Kentucky’s Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, asked 3,701 men aged 60 and higher a simple question: “Have you noticed any change in your memory since you last came in?”

That question led to some interesting results which are meaningful because it might help identify people who are at risk of developing Alzheimer’s Disease sooner. “If the memory and thinking lapses people notice themselves could be early markers of risk for Alzheimer’s disease, we might eventually be able to reduce the effects of cognitive memory impairment.”

Working as a traveling nurse is a career prospect

By Sandra Jordan Of The St. Louis American

Rachel Sites of Eureka, Mo. is a freshman nursing student at Northwest Arkansas Community College in Bentonville. She is one of several students who received scholarships for nursing education through a collaborative effort by Deaconess Foundation, The Scholarship Foundation of St. Louis and the St. Louis American Foundation.

Rachel Sites

Sites said the honor is significant to her personally.

“I feel like being a recipient has made me want to work harder to lead as an example to anyone who wants to become a nurse,” Sites said.

She wants to complete her core work at the community college.

“I’m transferring next year to the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville,” Sites added. “First, get the BSN after four years, but I’ll probably want to go back to school once I start working to be a nurse practitioner.”

Although her college training is in Arkansas, Sites has plans to return to the St. Louis area.

“I live in St Louis and I ‘ll just see what happens,” the Eureka High School graduate said. “I’ll probably come back to St. Louis unless I get a traveling nursing job in another city. I was thinking traveling nursing would be a pretty good gig.”

The three foundations have committed more than $100,000 annually in resources and support over a five-year-period to assist future nurses in their education and training. Deaconess Foundation Nursing Scholarships are awarded to 10-15 students annually (avg. award $6,000). Students must be permanent residents of the St. Louis metropolitan area and pursuing nursing (RN, BSN) at an accredited, nonprofit school. The awards are based on financial need, strength of character, and academic potential.

Applicants are required to have a valid email address when beginning the application as all correspondence will be arrive by email.

To apply, students are required to complete the two applications by April 15: the Deaconess Foundation Nursing Scholarship and The Scholarship Foundation Interest-Free Loan in Scholarship Central at www.sfstl.org.

If selected, Deaconess Scholarship recipients may also be given an opportunity to accept or decline an interest-free loan or other grants through SFSTL.

For more information, call The Scholarship Foundation of St. Louis at 314-725-7990 or via email at info@sfstl.org.

For applications, select the link “Deaconess Foundation Nursing Scholarship” at https:// stlouisgraduates.academicworks.com.

NIH awards SLU grants for Hepatitis B cure drug

Two grants from the National Institutes of Health will allow Saint Louis University researchers to build on breakthroughs in understanding the hepatitis B virus and begin the search for a drug to cure – not just halt – the illness.

John Tavis, Ph.D., professor of molecular microbiology and immunology at SLU published research demonstrating a way to measure and then block a previously unstudied enzyme, RNAseH, to stop the virus from replicating. Armed with that knowledge, Tavis now has the early data and funding to begin the search for a drug that may help to cure patients with hepatitis B.

Additional work funded from a second grant will involve screening for active enzyme from as many hepatitis B virus genotypes as possible. There are eight known genotypes of the hepatitis B virus, each further apart genetically than a person is from a mouse. Researchers will aim to find drug candidates that work for as many of the virus’s genotypes as possible.

Tavis will partner with Marvin Meyers, Ph.D., director of medicinal chemistry at SLU’s Center for World Health and Medicine (CWHM) and David Griggs, Ph.D., director of biology at the CWHM.

Once researchers have completed meticulous optimizing of both the enzyme and the assay, they will be ready for a pilot test to screen drug candidates from known drug libraries.

Current hepatitis B drugs can treat but not cure the infection for most people. The majority of liver cancer cases worldwide are caused by the hepatitis B virus.

HealtH Briefs

Tai Chi classes help locals with arthritis get moving

The James J. Eagen Civic Center in Florissant, Mo. recently started a threemonth series of Tai Chi classes for locals with arthritis.

“Exercise, and more generally, activity, is beneficial to people with arthritis,” shared Joe Brand, a doctor of physical therapy who works as director of rehab services at Life Care Center of Florissant.

Brand and several other therapists from the rehab and skilled nursing facility are leading the free classes. They are open to registrants and meet Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.

“The movement can help alleviate pain and maintain and improve joint mobility,” Brand added. “It can also help to increase strength to provide better support for painful joints.”

Furthermore, improved strength and motion helps build confidence and decrease the risk of falling, especially for seniors.

“The participants love that there is an option that allows them to participate in exercise,” Brand said. “Many of them say it is challenging and relaxing and that they have been able to notice improvements in balance and arthritis pain.”

For more information about the classes, please call Brand at (314) 8313752.

FDA approves first implantable hearing device

For people 18 and older with high-frequency hearing loss

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently approved the first implantable device for people 18 and older with severe or profound sensorineural hearing loss of high-frequency sounds in both ears, but who can still hear low-frequency sounds with or without a hearing aid. The Nucleus Hybrid L24 Cochlear Implant System, produced by Australian manufacturer Cochlear Ltd., may help those with this type of hearing loss who do not benefit from conventional hearing aids.

Sensorineural hearing loss is the most common form of hearing loss and occurs when there is damage to the inner ear

(cochlea). It may be caused by aging, heredity, exposure to loud noise, drugs that are toxic to the inner ear (e.g., antibiotics), and certain other illnesses. People with severe or profound sensorineural hearing loss of high-frequency sounds may have difficulty hearing faint sounds, understanding people with higher-pitched voices, hearing certain speech sounds, and, in some cases, hearing high-pitched emergency vehicle sirens or common safety alarms, such as smoke detectors.

“Hearing loss greatly impacts the education, employment, and well-being of many Americans,” said Christy Foreman, director of the Office of Device

Evaluation at the FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health. “This device may provide improved speech recognition for people with this kind of hearing loss, who have limited treatment options.”

The device combines the functions of a cochlear implant and a hearing aid, consisting of an external microphone and speech processor that picks up sounds from the environment and converts them into electrical impulses. The impulses are transmitted to the cochlea through a small bundle of implanted electrodes, creating a sense of sound that the user learns to associate with

the mid- and high-frequency sounds they remember. The hearing aid portion of the device is inserted into the outer ear canal like a conventional hearing aid, and can amplify sounds in the low-frequency range.

While the risk of low-frequency hearing loss is of concern, the FDA determined that the overall benefits of the device outweigh this risk for those who do not benefit from traditional hearing aids. Prospective patients should carefully discuss all benefits and risks of this new device with their physicians. The device is intended for use on one ear only.

Sat. Apr. 5, 6:30 p.m. – 11 p.m., Christian Hospital Auxiliary Golden Charity Ball, Norwood Hills Country Club, One Norwood Hills Country Club Drive, St. Louis, 63121. RSVP by March 21. Cocktail reception, silent auction, dinner, live auction and dancing with the Ralph Butler Band. For more information, contact the Auxiliary office at 314-653-5634, Sheryl McClary at 314-653-5193 or via email at SMcClary@bjc.org.

Sun. Apr. 6, 2:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m., A Tasteful Affair, Food Outreach’s 26th Annual Food & Auction Extravaganza, The Ballroom at The Four Seasons Hotel, 999 North 2nd Street, St. Louis. Guests will enjoy signature tastings from 50 of their favorite restaurants and caterers; proceeds benefit persons living with cancer and HIV?AIDS in the greater St. Louis area. For tickets or more, visit www.foodoutreach.org or call 314-652-3663 Ext. 122.

Sat & Sun. Apr. 5 & 6, Go! St. Louis Marathon & Family Fitness Weekend, Half marathon, marathon, marathon relay, 5K run/walk, Mature Mile, Go! St. Louis Read, Right & Run marathon and

Calendar

Children’s Fun Run. For more information, visit gostlouis.org.

Fri. April 11, 4:30 p.m. Most Powerful Voices Concert and Health Fair, Abundant Life Fellowship Church, 6055 Parker Road, Florissant, Mo. Free health screenings until 6:30; at 7 p.m., free gospel concert to raise stroke awareness by local and regional artists, headlined by gospel artist Yolanda Adams. Pre-registration is strongly encouraged. Those who register and complete the pre- and post-survey will be entered to win an iPad and iFit. To register, visit www.heart.org/ stlouisgospelconcert.

Sat. Apr. 12, 6 p.m., 24th Annual Orchid AAFAir, by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, St. Louis Chapter at Four Seasons St. Louis. Cocktail reception and silent auction at 6 p.m. with dinner and live auction at 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit aafastl.org/orchid.

Sat. Apr. 26, 8:30 a.m., NKF St. Louis Kidney 3K Walk, Saint Louis University, Laclede Park. Registration at 8:30; walk starts at 10. Event includes live bands, clowns, face paint-

ing, kid’s tent, photo booth and a healthy living tent. For more information, call 314-961-2828 or visit www.kidneywalk. org.

Sat., Apr. 26, 8 a.m., St. Louis March for Babies, Upper Muny Parking Lot in Forest Park. Registration at 8 a.m. and walk begins at 9 a.m. For more information, call 314-513-9990 or visit www.marchforbabies.org.

Thurs. May 1, 6 p.m., John H. Gladney MD Diversity Awards Reception, Saint Louis University El Monastero, 3050 Olive St. Guest speaker: Ronald Wyatt MD, MHA, DMS (HON), medical director, healthcare improvement, Office of the Chief Medical Officer, The Joint Commission. Dinner is served at 6pm with the program immediately following. RSVP by April 18 to 314-977-8730 or oma@slu. edu.

Sat. May 3, 4 p.m., Walk to End Lupus Now, Carondelet Park, St. Louis. Registration at 4 – walk begins at 5 p.m. For more information, call 314644-2222 or visit www.lfaheartland.org.

Sat., May 10, 4 p.m. Metro East

March for Babies, GCS Ballpark in Sauget, Ill.,2301 Grizzlie Bear Blvd. Registration at 4p.m. and event begins at 5:30 p.m. For more information, call 314-513-9990 or email MO633@marchofdimes.com.

Thurs., May 15, 5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m., Hospitalization & Dementia: Caring Partnerships, Northwest HealthCare Community Room, 1225 Graham Rd. Florissant, Mo. 63031. Christian Hospital and Alzheimer’s Association helps prepare people caring for a loved one with dementia for a hospital stay. Registration requested by calling 314747-9355.

Sundays, 10 a.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous Group 109 meets in the 11th floor conference room at Christian Hospital, 11133 Dunn Road at I-270/ Hwy. 367. This is an open meeting for alcoholics, drug addicts and their family and friends.

Mondays, 7 p.m. – “Tobacco Free for Life” support group – free weekly meetings at St. Peters Mo. City Hall. Supported by SSM Cancer Care; RSVP initial participation to 636-947-5304.

Behavioral

Christian Hospital offers free and confidential psychiatric and chemical dependency evaluations at the Christian Hospital Center for Mental Health. For more information, call 314-839-3171.

Christian Hospital Key Program offers support and education to patients with chronic mental illness to prevent increased severity of symptoms and to reduce the need for inpatient re-hospitalization. Call confidentially to 314-8393171 or 1-800-447-4301.

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

Bike helmet safety

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

HealtH ResouRces

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

Dental

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

Diabetes

SSM St. Mary’s Health Center provides free, Diabetes Support Group sessions the second Tuesday of every month from 6 – 7 p.m. to address health management issues. It’s located at Meeting Room 1 on the second floor, 6420 Clayton Rd. in St. Louis. To register, call toll free 866-SSM-DOCS (866-7763627).

Health Partnerships

The Center for Community Health and Partnerships: Building Bridges for Healthy Communities works to develop and support beneficial community-ac-

ademic partnerships to address the health needs of the St. Louis. For more information, email publichealth@wustl. edu; phone 314-747-9212 or visit publichealth.wustl.edu.

Information

Missouri 2-1-1 offers referral and information on a wide range of social service and helpful resources. Call 2-1-1.

Medical

Boys & Girls Clubs Dental & Vision Clinic at Herbert Hoover Club, 2901 N. Grand, St. Louis. Open year-round for members at no additional fee by appointment only. Teeth cleaning, braces, x-rays, root canals, some extractions; vision mobile unit, comprehensive exam and glasses, if required. Make an appointment by calling 314-355-8122.

Salam Free Saturday Clinic, 10 a.m. –2 p.m. at the Isom Community Center at Lane Tabernacle CME Church, 916 N. Newstead, St. Louis, Mo. for those who are uninsured. For more information, call 314-533-0534.

Nutrition

Food Outreach provides food, meals and nutritional education/ counseling to

eligible persons living with HIV/AIDS or cancer in St. Louis. For more information, call 314-652-3663 or visit www. foodoutreach.org.

St. Louis Milk Depot - SSM Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital is a breast milk depot for the Indiana Mother’s Milk Bank. Milk Depot staff will store and ship your milk to IMMB. For more information, call (314) 242-5912.

Prostate Cancer

The Cancer Center of The Empowerment Network at 6000 W. Florissant in St. Louis provides information on prostate and other types of cancer, and services and support. For more information, call 314-385-0998.

Prescription Cost Help

Schnucks Pharmacies – now offers certain prescription prenatal vitamins for free and offers no-cost generic prescription antibiotics at select locations.

Wal-Mart Pharmacies – offer select prescriptions for $4 or less for a 30-day supply or $10 for a 90-day supply. View the complete list at www.walmart.com/ pharmacy.

What is the difference between health prevention and wellness?

When you think about prevention and wellness, let us look at what these terms really mean. Simply put, when you prevent something, you keep it from happening.

When something is done “well,” it is just the way you want it. Wellness refers to being in good, proper and excellent health. The University of California, Riverside takes a more holistic approach, describing seven dimensions of wellness – social, emotional, spiritual, environmental, occupational, intellectual and physical wellness.

In health, prevention describes actions you take (exercise, dietary, and other lifestyle changes) to create wellness, the desired, actively sought-after state or quality of being of sound mind and body.

In its National Prevention Strategy, called for by the Affordable Care Act,

the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has a goal to increase the number of Americans who are healthy at every state of life, through strategies that build healthy and safe community environments, expanding quality preventive services, empowering people to make healthy choices and eliminating health disparities. To achieve this, the CDS identifies seven evidenced-based recommendations to reduce preventable death and disease: tobacco free living; preventing drug abuse and excessive alcohol use; healthy eating; active living; injury and violence-free living; reproductive and sexual health; and mental and emotional wellbeing.

For more information, on the National Prevention Strategy, visit http://www. surgeongeneral.gov/initiatives/prevention/ strategy/report.pdf.3

Seven Dimensions of Wellness

1. Social – ability to connect with and relate to others; maintaining positive relationships

2. Emotional – understanding ourselves and coping with life’s challenges productively

3. Spiritual – ability to establish peace and harmony in our lives, connecting values with actions and recognizing a common purpose that binds creation together

4. Environmental – ability to recognize our own responsibility to the quality of environmental resources, and making a positive impact

5. Occupational – the ability to get per-

sonal fulfillment from and balance from our jobs and chosen careers

6. Intellectual – the ability to open our minds to new ideas and experiences that can be applied to personal decisions, group interactions and the betterment of the community

7. Physical – the ability to maintain a healthy quality of life; adopting healthy habits while avoiding destructive ones

Source: University of California, Riverside

Email your health-related question to yourhealthmatters@stlamerican.com. An answer may be printed in a future issue of Your Health Matters.

The ability to connect with and relate to others and maintain positive relationships is one of the Seven Dimensions of Wellness.

Smarter colorectal screening could improve senior health

Quality measures for screening should focus on patient benefit, rather than age alone

Screening for colorectal cancer based on age alone may contribute to both underuse and overuse of the tests among older patients, according to a study by investigators at the University of Michigan and the Veterans Affairs Center for Clinical Management Research.

VA, the nation’s largest integrated health system, Medicare and many private insurers use quality measures to encourage screening among 50-75-year-olds.

n But the use of simple age cut-offs in these quality measures may contribute to what researchers found was underuse of screening in healthy, older people and overuse in unhealthy, older people.

But the use of simple age cutoffs in these quality measures may contribute to what researchers found was underuse of screening in healthy, older people and overuse in unhealthy, older people, according to the study using 2010 data on 399,067 VA enrollees.

An unhealthy 75-year-old – whose life expectancy is estimated at less than five years – was significantly more likely to undergo screening than a 76-year-old who is in good health, according to the study published recently in BMJ.

“If quality measures focused on age and health status, rather than age alone, we’d have better outcomes,” said lead study author Sameer Saini, M.D., a research scientist at VA-CCMR and assistant professor of internal medicine at the U-M Health System.

In elderly patients, life expectancy varies considerably according to health status. For instance, a 74-year-old man who is in excellent health has a life expectancy of almost 15 years.

The study suggests the upper age cut-off could unintentionally discourage screening for these healthy, older individuals, leading them to miss out on the colorectal screenings known to prevent cancer.

“Future patient-centered quality measures should focus on clinical benefit rather than age to ensure that patients who are likely to benefit from screening receive it, regardless of age, and that those who are likely to incur harm are spared unnecessary and costly care,” said senior study author Eve Kerr, M.D., M.P.H., director of VA-CCMR and professor of internal medicine at the U-M Health System.