April 5th, 2012 Edition

YMCA connects seniors to internet

OASIS program teaches computer skills and job training

By Rebecca S.Rivas Of The St.Louis American

The St. Louis Monsanto YMCAhas the largest population of participating African-American seniors of any YMCAin the country. Walk into the gym and a 92-year-old African-American woman is leading a chair-aerobics class to a high-energy

Playing at the rally

Health Care Administrator of the

By Rebecca S.Rivas Of The St.Louis American

“Community service has always been part of my DNA, basically.” – Dwayne Butler,CEO of Betty Jean Kerr People’s Health Centers

Let’s say hypothetically that “John” has a chronic case of diabetes and a chronic case of depression. And his brother “Frank” suffers from chronic diabetes alone. Statistics show that Frank will live 25 years longer than John – that is, if both of John’s behavioral and physical conditions are not equally treated. More than two years ago, CEO Dwayne Butler led the Betty Jean Kerr People’s Health Centers to

Now

one with John’s conditions can be treated in the same place by an integrated medical staff working together. Butler and his team recognized the challenges of coordinating physical and behavior health care services when they

Diversity in health care

Former U.S. Health Secretary Louis Sullivan, M.D., speaks at Wash U.

By Sandra Jordan Of The St.Louis

Washington University is bringing former U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Louis W. Sullivan, M.D., to St. Louis to discuss “Challenges and Changes in America’s Health System.” Sullivan, the 17th Secretary under President George H.W. Bush, will speak at 4 p.m. Wednesday, April 11 at the Eric P. Newman Education Center at 320 S. Euclid on the campus of the Medical School. Sullivan said he will talk about dramatic advances in America’s health system over the past 100 years in public health, vaccine development and return on investment in biomedical research. He said a major problem exists, however, in how health care is spread across the population.

“The people who are most left out of full enjoyment of these benefits are the poor, or people of minority populations.”

– Louis W. Sullivan,M.D.

“They really boil down to what I call a deficiency in our distribution system,” Sullivan said. “Not everyone in our society benefits equally from these advances, and the people who are most left out of full enjoyment of these benefits are the poor, or people of minority populations – blacks, Hispanics, native Americans. He said this is because of a complex variety of factors, including poverty, lower educational levels, “subtle discrimination” and the underrepresentation of minorities in health professions.

“When you look at the health professions today, rather than one-third of our health professionals being black, Latino or Native American, less than

See SULLIVAN, A7

By Rebecca S.Rivas Of The

Elijah Smith,3,entertained himself on Saturday

Photo by Wiley Price

Monsanto YMCA Community Organizer Mildred Boyd helps Ollie Dowsingwith her computer skills.A program called OASIS offers free computerclasses to seniors at the facility.

Photo by Wiley Price

Meagan Good to marry a preacher man

Actress Meagan Good is engaged to 7th Day Adventist preacher (and movie producer) DeVon Franklin

Good’s reps say that the man is a strict believer in the Bible and despite what anyone else thinks, he’s perfect for her.

He proposed last month in Los Angeles. The two met on the set of TD Jakes’ 2011 film, “Jumping The Broom,” which Franklin executive produced.

There’s said to be no date for the wedding yet.

Does Urkel have anger issues?

“Dancing with the Stars” celeb Jaleel White reportedly had a seriously bad rehearsal session with pro partner Kym Johnson

According to US Weekly, the Family Matters alum, 35, “flipped out” after he accidentally stepped on Johnson’s foot. An anonymous insider told the magazine When Johnson, 35, exclaimed “ouch” over his blunder, the insider says, White “got in her face,” and chastised her for “acting like a baby . . . He was shouting at her, calling her an ‘idiot.”

As Johnson momentarily left the studio in tears, fellow celeb competitor Donald Driver overheard the commotion and “tried to calm him down,” the insider says. Unmoved, White “started going off on the producers and shouting about how they put him with a ‘stupid’ partner.”

Pro dancer Mark Ballas then tried to confront White himself. As their argument escalated, White was said to have responded “You remind me of that annoying sitcom neighbor who gets into everyone’s business.”

“The producers stepped in and broke it up before it got physical, but they were right up in each other’s faces!” the source explains.

Producers banished White from the studio for the rest of the day.

“Now he says he refuses to go back to the rehearsal studio again,” the source says.

“He wants his own rehearsal space elsewhere.”

Diggy defends his sister’s honor

Diggy Simmons has been garnering attention for dropping a diss track against Roc Nation artist J. Cole over a song J recorded two years ago implying Diggy’s sister Vanessa was a freak and that he hooked up with Vanessa while they were both attending St. John’s University.

“A little over a year ago, my sister told me he was saying he did this, that, and the third with her ’cause they went to the same college,” Diggy told 99.1 KGGI. “But they didn’t even really know each other so it wasn’t like that. It was just me sticking up for my family.”

Diggy says his dad Rev Run had a positive response to the record.

“He already heard the track. He’s like, ‘Family over everything. That’s your sister.’ He wasn’t mad about it at all.”

BK’s Blige chicken wrap commercial vanishes

The Burger King chicken wraps commercial starring Mary J. Blige that caused an uproar among African-Americans was pulled, but the

corporation says the decision had nothing to do with the backlash the ad received. The spot debuted this week and in it, Blige sings soulfully about chicken snack wraps. Burger King said Tuesday the commercial was pulled because of a licensing concern. According to the Associated Press, the company said it hopes to have the Blige “ads back on the air soon.” As the video went viral, some in the black community criticized it as stereotypical.

Ms. Hill bombs in the Motherland Fans were said to have left in droves during Lauryn Hill’s performance at the Cape Town Jazz Festival. Hill belted out tracks that seemed less than familiar with the crowd because of the revamped musical arrangements. Hill continued her set with multiple interruptions, alleging that sound problems prevented the crowd from “hearing her.” At one point, Hill even left the stage to speak to someone backstage. By the end of her 3rd track, disgruntled audience members began streaming out of the packed venue and headed to the other headlining acts on the 4 remaining stages. Die-hard fans left the concert and took to social media to express their disappointment

KIPP students accepted for summer enrichment

American staff

Heaven Guerin and David Scott, both seventh grade students at KIPP Inspire Academy, have been chosen from top students enrolled at KIPP middle schools coast to coast to participate in 2012’s KIPP STEP (Success Through Enrichment Program) Summer Program at Deerfield Academy in Massachusetts.

The KIPP STEP Summer Program offers rising eighth grade KIPPsters an opportunity to experience the academic rigor and lifestyle of a top boarding school for three weeks in July. The program puts emphasis on science and English Language Arts. This program also focuses on developing the student’s skills such as research, writing, presentation, discussion and critical thinking, all necessary skills for success in challenging academic environments.

The KIPP STEP Summer Program is designed for academically strong students who also exhibit strong character, leadership, personal responsibility, and a desire to attend a boarding school. To earn acceptance, students must maintain an academic average of 90 percent or higher in major subject areas, in addition to showing a desire to learn while demonstrating a strong work ethic.

“Heaven was our first KIPPster to enroll when KIPP Inspire opened three years ago, and since fifth grade has been devoted to the idea of going to Deerfield. I am thrilled she will not only have this experience, but also proud she will be representing KIPP Inspire this summer,” said Molly Joyce, founding reading teacher and director of High School Placement.

“As a founding KIPPster, David has been and is respected by both teachers and peers. I am hopeful his experience at Deerfield will deepen his passion for his own academic growth, and inspire him to work towards his full potential.”

For three weeks, students will engage in four 70-minute academic periods per day with additional time devoted to independent study, sports, the arts, and field trips. Students will live on the Deerfield Academy campus in dormitories and experience the structured-independence associated with boarding school life.

“I would really like to have a rigorous experience,” David Scott said. “I don’t think that any one person could ever grow academically if he or she is not challenged. People need to be exposed to the world and new experiences, which is another reason I want to participate.”

“I am excited about the fact that the program focuses a lot on science and math because many careers revolve around both.” Heaven Guerin said. “Also, I believe this program will improve my leadership skills, making me a better person for both college and beyond.”

According to Jeremy Esposito, KIPP Inspire Academy’s School Leader, “At KIPP, we’re trying to prepare our students for success in high school and college. Deerfield is one of the most respected private boarding schools in the nation. Consequently, there is no place better suited for preparing David or Heaven for the rigors of a world-class high school.”

KIPP, the Knowledge is Power Program, began in 1994 in Houston, TX. Over 95 percent of students enrolled in KIPP schools are AfricanAmerican or Hispanic/Latino, and more than 80 percent qualify for the federal free and reduced-price meals program.

KIPP Inspire Academy opened in July 2009 with 80 fifth grade students, adding a new grade each year, and now educates more than 240 students in grades five, six, and seven. In July 2012, the addition of an eighth grade will complete the middle

school, with a total capacity to serve 320 students. Enrollment is now open for the 2012-2013 school year at KIPP Inspire Academy. Students entering fifth and sixth grades next year and who are

looking for an exciting school environment are urged to apply soon. Spaces are limited. For more information, visit www. kippstl.org, or contact Felicia Campbell-Miller, (314) 9103226.

Heaven Guerin and David Scott, both seventh grade students at KIPP Inspire Academy, have been chosen to participate in 2012’s KIPP STEP (Success Through Enrichment Program) Summer Program at Deerfield Academy in Massachusetts.

EDITORIAL /COMMENTARY

Transformative development for St. Louis

We would like to join the St. Louis Regional Chamber and Growth Association, U.S. Rep. Wm. Lacy Clay and many others in congratulating George Paz, Jeff Hall and their leadership team at Express Scripts for the approval of their $29.1 billion acquisition of Medco by the Federal Trade Commission. The nation’s third-largest pharmacy benefits manager, headquartered in North St. Louis County, has now acquired the nation’s largest PBM, creating a company with more than $100 billion in annual revenues able to direct the filling of the prescriptions of one-third of all Americans –from a home office in St. Louis.

As former Express Scripts Executive VP Michael Holmes says, “This will have more positive impact on jobs and the economy in this region than most people realize.” RCGA Executive Vice President for Economic Development Steve Johnson calls this “a transformative development in the health care industry.” Fortunately, it is a transformative development for St. Louis as well. It is likely that the positive impact will resonate in new construction at their headquarters and increased demand for commercial air service, other personal and professional services, continuing education and cultural organizations.

As our friend Michael Holmes reminds us, Express Scripts is led by a CEO of Hispanic descent and the company’s commitment to diversity has “started to pay off in the last few years.” According to Express Scripts, African Americans make up 26.3 percent of its workforce in St. Louis. If the company maintains or improves upon these numbers as it grows locally, as experts expect it to do following this merger, then this merger will stabilize even more African-American families in this region. Goodpaying jobs with benefits are crucial to greater prosperity for our community and the larger community as well. There is a large positive impact expected beyond Express Scripts’ own expanding workforce, and that impact also must be inclusive. Congressman Clay says, “This

acquisition creates an unprecedented opportunity for Express Scripts to engage and lift up our entire community by making true diversity and equal opportunity in future construction, procurement, professional services and vendors a corporate-wide priority.” Indeed, it does.

There is yet another opportunity for this merger to move this community forward in expanded corporate and individual philanthropy, which we expect to keep pace with Express Scripts’ dramatic growth in stock value for individuals as well as its vast expansion in revenue and eventually earnings. Michael Holmes knows what is possible here better than any of us. He left a senior position at Express Scripts to found the not-for-profit Rx Outreach. “I went to them and asked them to donate a pharmacy to me so I could make medicine available to the poor and underserved, and they gave me over $7 million in equipment and supplies so I could launch Rx Outreach,” Michael says. “It’s not every day you find an organization willing to donate $7 million to launch a non-profit.” We believe that the leadership at Express Scripts knows that this community expects expanded leadership of this sort in philanthropy in its headquarters community now that it is one of the nation’s top 20 companies in revenue and dominant in a vital part of health care, one of this nation’s most critical and fastest-growing industries.

We join our friend Mike Jones, senior policy analyst for County Executive Charlie A. Dooley, in hoping this transformative acquisition is the sign of a turnaround in St. Louis’ fortunes as a corporate hub. “There are things that can be made to happen in an environment where a CEO is on the ground locally making decisions, things that a guy running a branch office will not and can not make happen,” Mike says. “Maybe this acquisition will stop the bleeding for this region and we can build on this new foundation.”

Maybe so. We celebrate this good news and cautiously hope that this business coup is a

As I See It - A Forum for Community Issues

Working with the Affordable Care Act

In a recent piece, Dr. J. Nadine Gracia, Acting Director of the Office of Minority Health in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), quoted Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. as saying that injustices in health are one of “the most shocking and inhumane” forms of inequality. As she noted, fortunately “health reform is making serious strides in leveling the health care playing field.” For the last few years, as regional director for HHS, I was excited to be a part of making sure that those who stood to benefit from President Obama’s Affordable Care Act (ACA) took the steps needed to do so. In that role, I worked with leaders in St Louis to help communities understand the new benefits made available through ACA by using a specially designed “tool kit” of information. We worked to explain the small business tax credits, new benefits to young adults, and drug and preventive services to seniors through Medicare. We also improved services at community health centers and assisted the state with guidance in its application ensuring the renewal of ConnectCare services. I worked with senior centers to develop innovations

available through the new law to increase support for seniors to lead healthier, more independent lives. With all that said, is the ACA perfect? Certainly not. Should we throw it out and start from scratch? Absolutely not.

We have to save what’s good about it and fix the rest.

We shouldn’t go back to the days when our sickest seniors had to pay an additional $600 for their prescription drug coverage when they hit the so-called donut hole of prescription drug coverage. The ACA provided new coverage for these seniors.

We shouldn’t go back to when parents had to worry because their children could be excluded from insurance coverage due to pre-existing conditions. The ACA required insurance companies to provide coverage for these kids.

We shouldn’t go back to the days when recent college grads who hadn’t yet found their first job had to fear financial ruin if they got sick because it was no longer possible for them to be covered under their parents’ policy. The ACA now provides a means for parents to help their kids get coverage during their transition to careers. And it’s also worth noting that 1.3 million of those benefiting from this provision are racial and ethnic minorities. We shouldn’t go back to a time when insurance companies could spend as much as they wanted on administrative costs and as little as they wanted on

health care. The ACA forces insurance companies to spend money on health care, not bureaucracy.

But people like Lt. Governor Peter Kinder want to take us backwards. They advocate repealing those protections for seniors, children and young adults.

And instead of talking about ways we can improve the Affordable Care Act, they do the bidding of the insurance companies and file frivolous lawsuits just to score cheap political points – costing the taxpayers millions in legal fees in the process.

As HHS recently pointed out, “Not all Americans have equal access to health care – or similar health care outcomes.

Low-income Americans, racial and ethnic minorities, and other underserved populations often have higher rates of disease, fewer treatment options and reduced access to care. They are also less likely to have health insurance than the population as a whole.”

Repealing the Affordable Care Act would do nothing to fix those problems, and in fact, would only magnify them.

I am currently a candidate for Lt. Governor. In that role, I would continue to advocate for ways to make health care more affordable for all Missouri families and businesses. I would fight to help seniors keep quality care and to remain in their homes as long as possible. It is time we stand up for the things that make a difference in people’s lives.

COMMENTARY

If health care reform is overturned

In arguments before the Supreme Court last week, the Obama administration might have done just enough to keep the Affordable Care Act from being ruled unconstitutional. Those who believe in limited government had better hope so, at least.

If Obamacare is struck down, the short-term implications are uncertain. Conservatives may be buoyed by an electionyear victory; progressives may be energized by a ruling that looks more political than substantive. The long-term consequences, however, are obvious: Sooner or later, a much more farreaching overhaul of the health care system will be inevitable.

To say the least, the three days of oral argument before the high court did not unfold the way many experts had expected. Confident predictions that the administration would prevail by a lopsided margin became inoperative as soon as the justices began pummeling Solicitor General Donald Verrilli with pointed questions.

At one point last Wednesday, as the barrage was winding down, Chief Justice John Roberts told Verrilli he could have an extra 15 minutes to argue a point. Verrilli replied, “Lucky me.”

In the end, however, Verrilli gave the skeptical justices

what they were looking for: a limiting principle that allows them, should they choose, to defer to Congress and uphold the law.

At the heart of the legislation is the requirement that individuals purchase health insurance or pay a fine. It became clear by their questioning that the court’s five conservatives – including Justice Anthony Kennedy, the swing vote – see this mandate as a significant expansion of the federal government’s reach and authority.

Verrilli argued that the mandate is permissible under the clause of the Constitution giving the government the power to regulate interstate commerce. Justices demanded a limiting principle: Where does this authority end? If the government can compel a citizen to buy health insurance, why can’t it compel the purchase of other things?

Justice Antonin Scalia raised the specter of an all-powerful government that could even “make people buy broccoli” if it wished. Scalia’s mind seemed to be made up, but Kennedy seemed to be genuinely looking for a principle that permitted a health insurance mandate.

And Verrilli gave him one. The market for health insurance is inseparable from the market for health care, he argued, and every citizen is a consumer of health care. Those who choose not to buy health insurance require health care anyway –often expensive care at hospital emergency rooms – and these costs are borne by the rest of

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Justice to Trayvon

Although we as the local St. Louis County branch of the NAACP may not know every fact of the case, one thing is quite clear: Trayvon Martin was victimized and gunned down on the basis of race.

As we patiently await the prosecuting attorney’s fight to bring justice to Trayvon and his family, we URGE citizens to stand up, be counted, and make their voices heard in this matter! We encourage you to write the Attorney General of Florida, the District Attorney, as well as the Judge handling this case.

The St. Louis County Branch of the NAACP is welcoming any questions and or concerns that St. Louis County residents may have regarding this case, and how they can get engaged.

In the words of our National President and CEO Ben Jealous, “This is the Emmett Till or Rodney King for this generation. It’s that case that exemplifies the ubiquitous anxiety about the vulnerability of black men and black boys in our society. The difference this time is that our society is less divided.”

Esther Haywood NAACP St. Louis County St. Louis

Trayvon Martin and Anna Brown

Trayvon Martin and Anna Brown are names in the news. Most people probably recognize the former but not the latter. However, those folks railing against the Affordable Healthcare Act (Obamacare) should take particular note of the latter.

Twenty-nine year old Anna Brown died of a treatable medical condition last September while she lay on the floor of a Richmond Heights jail cell. Just hours before her arrest, she had been forced to leave Saint Louis University Hospital and was later arrested at St. Mary’s Hospital, where she pleaded for treatment, according to news reports. Brown sought care at these two Catholic hospitals, but got jailed not treated, and died in jail from blood clots that

us. The court is supposed to begin with the assumption that laws passed by Congress are constitutional. Justices don’t have to like the Affordable Care Act in order to decide it should remain in effect. If some members of the court think they could do better, maybe they should quit and run for legislative office. But what if they strike down the law?

The immediate impact will be the human toll. More than 30 million uninsured Americans who would have obtained coverage under Obamacare will be bereft. Other provisions of the law, such as forbidding insurance companies to deny coverage based on pre-existing conditions and allowing young adults to remain on their parents’ policies, presumably would also be invalidated; if not, they would have to be modified to keep insurance rates from climbing sharply. The United States would remain the only wealthy industrialized country where getting sick can mean going bankrupt. Our only choice is to try to hold the costs down. President Obama tried to make a start with a modest approach that works through the current system. If this doesn’t

moved to her lungs, according to her autopsy report. And they call themselves Christians! Have they not read the parable of the Good Samaritan? And these so called Christians are demonstrating by the thousands to protest deliverance of medical services to tens of millions of needy people. Encountering the naked and half dead man lying on the road between Jerusalem and Jericho (Ref. Luke 10:25), these Christians would have crossed to the other side of the road…just like the priest and the Levite! Where are the Samaritans? Martin and Brown are dead. Justice may be on the horizon for Martin, maybe. But with Beelzebub working his magic in America’s churches, judicial and political systems, Christians are turning a “blind eye” to the millions of Americans in need of health services, just as Christians at two St. Louis hospitals turned a blind eye to Anna Brown. What excuse will they render when they stand at the Pearly Gates?

Michael K. Broughton Green Park, Mo.

Hopeful for justice

The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation wishes to express its condolences to the family of Trayvon Martin. We are dismayed that such a terrible tragedy occurred, and are in full support of the Congressional Black Caucus, and the thousands of others who gathered in Sanford, Florida and nationwide, calling for the full investigation and arrest of the person responsible for Trayvon’s killing. The death of any young person is a loss that reverberates throughout our communities. Trayvon’s killing is yet another example of the challenges posed by some local laws which seemingly afford disparate protections under the law. CBCF is working to remedy this legal dissymmetry by educating the public about our criminal justice system, and informing the public about ways to eliminate the legal disparities that are disproportionately impacting African Americans and other youth.

We look forward to the findings of the Justice Department, and remain hopeful that true justice will be rendered for the late Trayvon Martin and his family. Again, our deepest sympathy to the Trayvon Martin family.

Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Washington, D.C.

Guest Columnist

Judy Baker

Voters Guide available online

This year the League of Women Voters St. Louis’ Voters Guide is available on line at Vote411.org. At this site you can put in your address and you will receive the specific candidates and ballot issues on which you will be voting. Print it out and you can take it to the polls to easily cast your vote.

“Democracy is not a spectators sport,” said Linda Claire McDaniel and Kathleen Farrell, Co-Presidents of League of Women Voters St. Louis, in a statement. “We encourage you to read this guide as a way to learn about the candidates and ballot issues to make your voting decision.”

Questions selected by the League of Women Voters for the 2012 Voters Guide were addressed to candidates. All candidates are solely responsible for the content of their replies. Because of space limitations, candidates were informed of a word limit. In making this information available to the public, the League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan organization, neither endorsed nor rejects the view of any candidate. The League does not assume any responsibility for any candidate’s reply. All material in this guide was gathered and prepared by local League members and edited and produced by the St. Louis PostDispatch

The League of Women Voters was formed out of the suffragist movement in 1919 in downtown St. Louis at the current Renaissance Hotel. The League was formed to continue its work of informing voters about community issues, candidates, and government.

If you would like to know about the League, visit www.lwvstl.org or call 314961-6869. We are a nonpartisan organization that welcomes all who are of voting age.

Mrs. Nixon encourages reading with children

dren and encourage Missouri parents, grandparents and caregivers to devote time each day to reading to a

Doctors, nurse practitioners, and other medical professionals at Cardinal Glennon participate in the Reach Out and Read program, which incorporates children’s literacy into regular pediatric checkups by advising parents about the importance of reading aloud and giving developmentally-appropriate books to children.

“I commend Cardinal Glennon’s commitment children’s literacy through their participation in the Reach Out and Read Program,” Mrs. Nixon said. “One thing every child should be prescribed is simply a good book.”

Mrs. Nixon, who has worked as a teacher, read “The Last Time I Saw Harris” by Frank Remkiewicz to children waiting in Cardinal Glennon’s Danis Pediatric Center, and handed out copies of a variety of books to children staying at the hospital.

“Children must be strong readers to be successful in school and all through life,” Mrs. Nixon said.“As adults, we must help children understand the importance – and the joy – of reading.With summertime just around the corner, I encourage every adult to spend time each day reading with a child.”

Ferg-Florschools town hall meeting

Ferguson-Florissant families, faculty and community members are invited to attend the district’s second town hall meeting planned for 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 10 in the Hub at McCluer High School, 1896 S. New Florissant Rd.

Participants should come prepared to get involved during this question-and-answer session where they will hear from Art McCoy, superintendent, as he shares district news and updates. District leaders will also share remarks. Input from students, parents, community members and staff is welcome. Free food will be provided. Visit www.fergflor.orgfor a flyer to print and share with others about this meeting.

Imagine Trayvon –and beyond!

By Michele Brown For The St.Louis American

When the February 26, 2012, killing of Trayvon Martin came to the light of the media, not only did his family lose their son, many Americans felt again stripped of power and a loss of due process. Imagine if the Sanford, Florida police department had followed up on the lead investigator’s interview with George Zimmerman on the night of the shooting. Imagine if the neighbors and witnesses were questioned without delay.

However, America is left to imagine a formal investigation which could have eventually led to justice or at least the sense of it.

You don’t have to watch CSI to know that as time passes from a criminal event, evidence is invariably lost. Thus we see the metamorphosing statements of George Zimmerman that line up with Florida’s gun laws. Like Martin Luther King Jr. had a dream, Americans still have to imagine

The ball was dropped here.

Many people, regardless of race, have prejudices against people who do not look like or live like them. Then add a feeling of being violated personally or in your community. Now give those same people the right to carry a weapon, and our country goes back to the days of lawlessness. Zimmerman did what the law said he could do according to his statement (four weeks later). We may never know …

So maybe we should ask ourselves: Does our political candidate endorse laws that give neighborhood watchmen the right to be judge and jury in your community?

If we want to do something, we need to start by doing our own investigating. Look at your state’s gun laws; they may need to be repealed.

Register to vote.

The day the Sanford, Florida police department threw away their duty to investigate the killing of Trayvon Martin, fundamental fairness, justice and liberty were lost once again in America.

Change starts with you. It’s time to go beyond our imagination …

Michele Brown

First Lady Georganne Nixon visited Cardinal Glennon Children’s Medical Center recently to read to chil-

child.

BUTLER

Continued from A1

are not managed by the same organization.

“Our Board of Directors realized that if we are going to call ourselves the custodians of community health, this is something we need to address,” said Butler.

As CEO of People’s, Butler acquired the Hopewell Center, which has a long history of treating behavioral issues. Butler also has led the organization to open a new pediatric wing in its North St. Louis County center during his tenure.

On Saturday, May 5, Butler will receive the 2012 Health Care Administrator of the Year Award at the St. Louis American Foundation’s Salute to Excellence in Health Care Award Luncheon at the Frontenac Hilton.

By integrating physical and behavior health, Butler has helped People’s Health earn national attention.

“The regional and federal medical and behavioral health communities are watching this

SLPS

Continued from A1 District to pay for all students who want to study in accredited county schools. In that case, the proposed budget would be completely void, Adams said.

“Then, the budget you just saw goes out the window,” Adams said. “It’s no longer a balanced budget, and we have a number of different challenges. This is a budget based on what we know today.”

Adams expects the judge to make his decision in the next 30 days. However, most likely one side or the other would appeal the decision, and the 2012/13 budget will remain as is until the appeal process is completed.

If the Missouri Department

integration because it is something that they have been talking about for a very long time,” he said. “We are one of the first organizations that are beginning to put that into practice.”

In his four years as CEO, Butler said, bringing behavior health services alongside primary care is his biggest accomplishment.

From volunteer to CEO

snow cones at the center’s events.

“You don’t grow up in her household without volunteering and being involved in the community,” he said. “Community service has always been part of my DNA, basically. When the opportunity came to dive into service with both feet, I jumped at it.”

“The regional and federal medical and behavioral health communities are watching this integration.”

As many know, Butler’s mother – Betty Jean Kerr – was one of the founders of the center some 40 years ago. It was started as a free clinic in the basement of a duplex in an apartment complex on Kingsbury.

– Dwayne Butler, CEO of Betty Jean Kerr People’s Health Centers

From kindergarten all the way through college, Butler volunteered at the clinic. He remembers riding on his bike to hand out pamphlets in the community and handing out

of Elementary and Secondary Education awards the SLPS district its accreditation before that process is over, the lawsuit would no longer apply. The district has the six points that’s needed for accreditation; however, one of those points must come from an academic area.

Last year, the school district was inches away from earning that point. If 13 sixth-grade students would have tested differently on the communication arts portion of the MAPtest, the district would have earned the point. That’s out of 4,800 students.

For next year, one of the biggest spending priorities is to maintain the pupil/teacher ratio at the state’s desired level.

“That is held sacred,” Adams said. “We are trying to indicate that we are providing the best educational environ-

He came to People’s Health Centers from a banking career in Chicago, where he earned his MBAin finance and marketing at the University of Chicago School of Business.

Butler grew up adhering to the center’s mantra –to underline everything they do with dignity and respect.

“I spend as much time with our maintenance staff as I do with our physicians’staff because it’s important that we create an environment to where people walk in and they know that they are valuable,” he said.

ment for students.” To maintain this level, Adams said they may have to make some employee cuts – but not to classroom teachers.

The district has also put technology upgrades at the forefront, along with continuing Prop S facility improvements.

Over the past three years, the district has reduced its total expenditures by $68 million. The majority of those cuts have been to salaries, benefits, professional services and contracts. However, the district has been able to find cost savings by consolidating and renegotiating services, such as transportation.

Early childhood enrollment grows

One area of the district that

Alittle more than a year ago, the group opened a $1 million expansion of its North County pediatric wing, using federal funding from the Affordable Care Act.

“It’s another step to making sure the underserved community has services that are world-class and that are deserving of anyone by virtue of breath alone,” he said.

Butler said he is proud to help move People’s forward, but he is far from alone in the effort.

“While I receive the award, there are a number of people in the organization who contribute as much – if not more –than me to make sure that our journey is fulfilled and our community is benefiting from the services we provide,” he said.

Tickets for the 12th Annual Salute to Excellence in Health Care Awards Luncheon on Saturday, May 5 at the Frontenac Hilton are $75 each/$750 table for VIP/Corporate seating and $50 each/$500 table for Individual seating. To order tickets, call 314-533-8000 or visit www.stlamerican.com.

continues to grow is early childhood education. Since 2008, enrollment into prekindergarten classes has almost doubled, from about 1,400 to 2,400.

Around the country, state agencies determine how many prison beds they will need in the future by looking at their children’s second- to fourthgrade reading levels, Adams said.

One of the ways the district is addressing reading fluency is through early childhood education.

“That’s why opening up new pre-K’s are so important,” he said, “because if you encourage kids to increase their reading fluency, then the likelihood is that they will not need intervention at the fourthgrade level.”

A rally in support of Trayvon Martin convened Saturday at North Oaks Mall in North County drew area youths wearing hooded sweatshirts.Martin was wearing a hoodie and carrying a can of iced tea and a package of Skittles when he was stalked and killed in Sanford,Fla.on Feb.26 by George Zimmerman, who still has not been arrested and charged with his murder. North County honors Trayvon

Photo by Wiley Price

OASIS

Continued from A1

81-year-old

computer instructor

“We call this our country club,” said Mildred Boyd, 81, community organizer for the Monsanto YMCAat 5555 Page Blvd.

One of the biggest attractions at the “country club” is the computer classes for seniors, said Boyd, who organizes the classes and sometimes leads them.

On a Friday in January, Boyd looked at the 10 AfricanAmerican women who had stationed themselves at the computers – a few nearing 90.

“I’ll tell you something cute,” she said. “I came in this morning and read the roll, and I told them, ‘Not one of you is registered for this class.’”

As the registered students filtered in, the class crashers had to give up their computers and sit in chairs nearby to follow along.

“We’re a big lab family,” she said. “We’re not going to run anyone away.”

SULLIVAN

Continued from A1 rhythm. She doesn’t skip a beat. Walk into the coffee room and almost every seat is full of ladies playing cards or chatting about their classes. Among them is a water-aerobics instructor who is also in her 90s.

10 percent of health professionals come from one of these minority populations,” Sullivan said.

“So one of the ways to help assure that the minority populations get the care they need is by having more diversity among our nation’s physicians, nurses, dentists and other professionals.”

Because minority physicians typically have a higher percentage of Medicaid and uninsured patients, Sullivan said efforts to reach impoverished populations would be enhanced by greater physician diversity – which has other economic benefits.

“Physicians and other health professionals serve as centers of economic activity when they settle in minority populations, because they have to hire nurses, office assistants, purchase supplies and services, and so they help improve the economic activity in the community,” Sullivan said.

He said the synergy between minority doctors and patients builds trust.

“When the individual is from that minority population, he is trusted more,” Sullivan said.

“Dedication is more effective, and the believability of recommendations given by the health professional are greater so that compliance is more likely to occur.”

Also, minority health professionals have a better understanding of the value system of minority patients and their economic and social circumstances. So, he said, “they are less likely to give the patient a prescription that might cost, let’s say, a hundred dollars or more if that patient really cannot afford that.”

Affordable Care Act

Sullivan also will discuss the Affordable Care Act, which currently is under review by the U.S. Supreme Court.

“We’d be much better off by working to improve the features of the bill that are not as strong as they should be or not as well-refined as they should be rather than repeal it,” Sullivan said.

“If this bill is repealed then it’s not going to be next year or the year after that we’ll have alternative legislation –it’ll be a number of years to reach consensus.”

By that time, Sullivan predicted, “Rather than health consuming 20 percent of GNP [gross national product], it could be consuming 27 or 28 or even 30 percent of GNP.”

This is a recipe for disinvestment in other needed services, because “dollars that are needed for transportation, for education, for a number of other goods and services are

Boyd retired from a career of facilitating job training and employment from MERS in 2001, but she didn’t stay retired for long. When she joined the YMCAas a retiree in 2002, they were looking for help with their Welfare-toWork program.

“So I joined part of the employment team,” Boyd said. The seniors kept telling her that they wanted computer classes. The Monsanto Computer use among Americans 65 and older has doubled in the past 10 years, while internet usage among that age group has more than tripled, according to the Pew Internet Project.

In 2004, Boyd asked the executive director about starting a computer program, and he agreed. When the woman in charge of the classes left her position, Boyd taught them herself. Thankfully someone came to her rescue – a representative from OASIS, a national nonprofit that provides educational and volunteer opportunities to seniors.

Partnering with OASIS

“She was doing it all on her own,” said Sharon Hales, community outreach manager for OASIS. “We were able to provide her with evidence-based

eaten up by the health care system.” In 1965, when Medicaid and Medicare were passed, there was a lot of resistance, Sullivan reminded.

curriculum.”

In 2011, nationwide enrollment into OASIS’technology classes topped 7,700 in 90 locations.

Now Boyd organizes the classes at the Y, and when a teacher can’t make it she will step in and teach.

One of the students, Minnie Hall, 88, started taking classes about five months ago. Recently, she bought herself a computer so she could practice at home.

“I love to try to learn things, and the computer has so many things that you would never dream,” she said. “You

“But the bill passed and this has really reduced poverty among the elderly; it has brought services to not only the elderly, but the poor; and it has really worked generally

don’t get too old to learn, but it’s a slow process.”

The computer students have bonded. In December, the students pulled together funds to throw a holiday party for the teachers. Many have already taken every single class available, and they are now starting to take them all again. However, many, including Hall, just pop in unexpectedly whenever they are in the area.

“I enjoy seeing the elderly ladies try to learn,” Hall said.

“It’s the most beautiful thing to happen. As you get older you forget it. They are so sweet to you here.”

well, although we really have to work to make some changes to decrease the rate of increase in health care cost,” Sullivan said. “But many of the same people who now are protesting

Minnie Hall,88, started taking computer classes at the Monsanto YMCA about five months ago.Recently,she bought herself a computer so she could practice at home.“I love to try to learn things,and the computer has so many things that you would never dream,”she said.

“You don’t get too old to learn, but it’s a slow process.”

– Minnie Hall,88

online. We have refocused our program so if you want to go back to work, we can help you do that.”

The program recently helped Patricia Young, 73, to obtain a position with Cardinal Ritter High School. As a retired dental assistant, Young said her money from Social Security is not paying the bills. She spoke highly of her OASIS teachers. They took her from not knowing how to turn on a computer to feeling comfortable with the various programs.

From learning to working

While the program started off as a way to connect seniors with their families and technology, it has expanded. As more and more seniors try to get back in the workforce, Boyd and OASIS have offered tailored job-training skills.

AT&T, which sponsors the YMCA’s program, is aware of this trend and encourages offering computer classes that would help.

“We all know you don’t just walk in and ask for an application anymore,” Hales said. “More often you fill them out

to roll back the legislation are also saying, ‘Don’t touch my Medicare.’Over time, people have understood and appreciated it and what this legislation has contributed to improving

“Now I feel I can go out and use those skills,” Young said. “I need to work to help pay these bills. Most jobs you get, they want you to be able to work a computer. This is something I can use and something I really want to do.”

Rebecca Rivas wrote this article as part of the MetLife Foundation Journalists in Aging Fellowship, a project of New America Media and the Gerontological Society of America. This is the first article in a four-part series.

to

online to attend Sullivan’s lecture at bit.ly/z2aeqJ or find more information at publichealth.wustl.edu.

Photo by Wiley Price

Staying neutral in a knife fight

They say you can’t be neutral in a knife fight. At least two black elected officials in the city of St. Louis indicate that they are going to try.

Aldermanic President Lewis Reed and Alderwoman Kacie Starr Triplett (who succeeded Reed in representing the city’s diverse near South Side 6th Ward) both tell the EYE they do not plan to endorse either incumbent U.S. Rep. Wm. Lacy Clay or his South Side challenger Russ Carnahan in the 1st Congressional District primary.

Carnahan’s 3rd Congressional District was drawn out of existence by the Missouri Legislature, though that map has been challenged and the decision about the final

boundaries remains before the Missouri Supreme Court. Carnahan was offered a pile of money and staff of street soldiers to run for the open 2nd District seat vacated by Todd Akin, but instead decided to oppose Clay in Missouri’s oldest black congressional district in a year when the nation’s first black president goes before the voters to seek reelection.

Apparently both Reed and Triplett look to their personal histories, rather than the history (or future) of the state or nation, and find reasons for divided loyalty or no loyalty at all. Reed is close personal friends with Carnahan; neither Clay nor Carnahan endorsed Reed as the black

challenger to white incumbent Jim Shrewsbury. Triplett’s grandfather, the late legendary state Senator John Bass was close to the Clay family, and Lacy Clay has supported her political ambitions, but Carnahan is her constituent and former employer.

The EYE advises black Democrats – and really all Missouri Democrats – to look beyond their own noses and get behind Clay. That is, unless you want to help lose Missouri’s first black congressional district – and help botch the reelection bid of U.S. Senator Claire McCaskill., who faces an uphill battle to hold onto her Senate seat and needs solid Democratic support. She can not afford to lose any of the expanded black vote in a presidential election with Obama at the top of the ticket.

Invented quote and endorsement

Hold up – Alderman Jeffrey Boyd says he has drummed up some black support in his bid for city Treasurer, a race that includes a more qualified African-American candidate,

Tishaura O. Jones, as well as two white South Siders, Alderman Fred Wessels and Democratic Party operative –and former paid “consultant” to retiring Treasurer Larry Williams Brian Wahby Williams did not file for reelection.

Turns out Boyd claims a little more support than he actually has.

Boyd says he has the support of his colleagues on the Board of Aldermen Dionne Flowers (2nd Ward), Samuel Moore (4th Ward), Antonio French (21st Ward) and Frank Williamson (26th Ward), who appeared to come in a package deal with 26th Ward committeepeople Joseph Palm and Angela Newsome Appeared, that is. Contacted by the EYE, Palm said he had not endorsed Boyd.

Boyd’s release also came packaged with a quote from French – “Working with Jeffrey, I know him to be someone who is unafraid to take on tough issues, to speak his mind, and to fight on behalf of the people” – which French surely would have ridiculed in his days as a journalist had anyone sent this fanciful

statement to PubDef No wonder. It was an invented quote. When contacted by the EYE, French had not read Boyd’s release, let alone written anything for it. Jeffrey must have free-styled these words in his own honor.

French did confirm that he had endorsed Boyd – before Tishaura Jones said she would run, and since French needs Boyd’s vote on the Board of Aldermen (and is going to go on needing it, since French knows Jeffrey has no chance of winning this citywide election) he is boxed in now.

French said if the truth be known he is voting on the “anybody but Wahby ticket.”

The problem is, a vote for Boyd is a vote for Wahby or Wessels, since Tishaura might lose this election, but Jeffery can’t possibly win it.

Injustice and the AG

They say truth is the first casualty of war. Justice is the first casualty of Attorney General campaigns.

Missouri Attorney Chris Koster, who faces reelection in November, is filing legal papers

defending the conviction of George Allen who has served 30 years for a murder that significant evidence proves he did not commit. Most of this evidence, including serology evidence and newly discovered fingerprints excluding Allen, was known to the state prior to trial but was never turned over to the defense as required. After years of asking for the prints and being told they no longer existed, Allen’s attorneys with the Innocence Project and Bryan Cave were recently able to get the prints though a subpoena, and the analyst’s notes reveal that reveal Allen was excluded as the source of the prints and that the prints were compared to other possible suspects after Allen was excluded. At a recent deposition, Detective Ron Scaggs admitted that the police investigating the case were “iffy” about Allen’s guilt.

“It’s shameful that the state is defending this case despite recent testimony from one of the detectives involved in the investigation and prosecution who expressed the same concerns we have about the reliability of the confession,” said Barry Scheck Co-Director of the Innocence Project.

What’s shameful is that Koster – a former Republican state senator who flip-flopped to the Democratic

To apply to a St. Louis

The death of Robert Douglas

Diabetic dies after former employer discontinues free health insurance

By Michael D. Sorkin United Media Guild

Robert Douglas collapsed and died while he was about to let his two mixed-breed dogs out the back door of his modest brick home in St. Louis. Two days later, on Dec. 16, relatives found his body on the kitchen floor. He was 59.

Robert had cared for his two rescued dogs, and he had done the same for his friends and colleagues at the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, where he had worked for nearly 40 years. He was to the newsroom as Radar was to “M*A*S*H”: the guy we went to when we needed help. Robert made sure we got what we needed to do our jobs, especially when the bosses said we couldn’t.

“Robert, they won’t give me a cell phone,” one reporter recalled recently at Robert’s memorial service. “You can have a cell phone,” Robert said. We thought he could do just about anything. Robert was a clerk. He was one of several dozen support staff who worked behind the scene and were largely anonymous. They answered the phones, helped research stories and kept the newsroom’s machines working.

They are nearly all gone now, bought out or laid off. The Post-Dispatch laid off Robert in October 2008. He was a member of the St. Louis Newspaper Guild (now the United Media Guild) and made an annual union wage of $39,936.

The contract says retiree health insurance is free and for life. The company used that perk to induce more than 100 newsroom employees to take early retirement in 2005 and 2007. Now we know that the company didn’t plan to honor its promises.

Robert wanted to keep working. But when he lost his job, his union contract eased the way with a severance of $50,688 before taxes, based upon his years of employment. He used the money to pay off his mortgage, and spent many hours fixing up his house. He told his three grown children that if anything happened to him, he wanted them to have a place to live that was free of debt.

Robert’s monthly PostDispatch pension was just $366, and he had no other income. He was too young for Medicare and was turned down for Medicaid. Amazingly, his modest income allowed him to pay for food and utilities while continuing to help people less fortunate.

At the memorial service, friends recounted how Robert regularly helped needy people on the street. Several times a week, he gave $3 for bus fare to an injured man unable to speak.

The severance package under the union contract gives Robert and other retirees health insurance. That was important because Robert had diabetes and high blood pressure. While he was employed, he was able to stay healthy because he had good medical care.

On Nov. 19, 2010, Lee Enterprises, owners of the Post-Dispatch, notified Robert by letter that he would have to pay 100 percent of his health insurance premiums. The company would take the premiums out of his monthly pension check. But the pension wasn’t enough to cover the full $580 monthly premium. Robert

would owe the company an additional $214 each month. He would no longer get a pension. He would have no income.

The letter from Lee said that if Robert was late in paying, he would lose his insurance and wouldn’t get it back.

On March 18, 2011, Robert signed a letter canceling his company health insurance because “I can’t afford to pay for it.”

After that, Robert resorted

to a series of free clinics with limited success. One physician put Robert on a drug he had tried years earlier with terrible side effects, recalled his daughter, Erica Douglas.

In the end, Robert sometimes was able to get insulin and sometimes not. He got some hand-me-down medicine from diabetic friends.

Robert told his daughter early in December that the insulin he had then wasn’t

working. He said he would go to a doctor. But he didn’t – “he had no money,” Erica Roberts said.

Robert was trying to save money for an operation for Creamy, the older of his two aging dogs. She needed a tumor removed. When Robert didn’t answer the phone, four family members went to his home and found his body. In the bedroom, they found Creamy dead underneath Robert’s bed.

Did Lee Enterprises kill Robert when it took away his insurance? Not directly, of course.

Lee President Mary Junck told stock analysts in 2005 when the Davenport company bought the Post-Dispatch that she would end retiree health insurance. But Junck and the company’s board had to know the likely results of cutting off health care for retirees who might not be able to get replacement insurance.

The Guild is in federal court fighting to get back retiree health insurance, and has spent more than $250,000 in legal fees, according to Shannon Duffy, the union’s business manager.

For its part, Lee has taken the unusual step of suing its own retirees. It was a

preemptive strike aimed at discouraging a lawsuit against the company. Undeterred, a group of retirees recently sued Lee for fraud. While the issue is tied up in court, more retirees will die, rejoin the job market or give up. Lee’s officers and directors have nothing personal to lose. But what if the retirees change strategy and sue to hold them accountable as individuals –and seek damages including their salaries, homes, bank accounts and 401(k)s? Robert didn’t get a news obituary in the Post-Dispatch and the public never would have heard of him if columnist Bill McClellan hadn’t written that Robert “was a victim of our times – caught somewhere between serious health-care reform and the old paternalistic way of companies.” I wrote Robert’s obit for our in-house Intranet, including two paragraphs explaining how the company had taken away his health insurance. A newsroom manager edited that out saying, “Those two paragraphs really stick out.” Yes, they did. They still do. Edited slightly and reprinted with permission from the website of The Newspaper Guild, newsguild.org.

The late Robert Douglas, former Post-Dispatch clerk, and family.

Celebrating a lifetime of achievement

May 16, 1912-March 28, 2012

It is with deep sadness we say goodbye to our dear friend and colleague, Oliver (Ollie) Langenberg. For more than 50 years, Ollie’s exceptional mind and keen business sense made him a beloved and respected icon in our industry. His big heart and quiet generosity made him a philanthropic legend in the St. Louis community. All of us at Wells Fargo Advisors express our sympathy to the Langenberg family, and we thank them for the privilege of working with Ollie for more than half a century.

Obituaries

Ronald “Coon” Guest

Loving and missing you still

Sunrise: September 15, 1955

Sunset: April 1, 2010

God saw the road was getting rough; The hills were hard to climb; He gently closed those loving eyes; And whispered, “Peace be thine.”

Ronald Guest

Not a day goes by that we don’t miss you. Your devoted wife, daughters, grandchildren, sisters, brother, nieces and nephews.

Frederick Michael Grimes

Frederick Michael Grimes was born to Ernestine and Frederick Grimes in St Louis, MO on April 19, 1945.

Frederick Grimes

After completing Sumner High School where he played football and ran track, Michael joined the United States Air Force and served two tours of duty as a jet mechanic in Vietnam.

After leaving the service, Michael settled in California and began his civilian career as a program manager at the Alameda Naval Air Rework Facility. With recognition for his leadership and analytical skills, Michael moved to senior logistics analyst and retired in 2004 as supervisor logistics analyst at Edwards Air Force Base in Long Beach.

In keeping with his high energy and competitive spirit, Michael’s retirement was full of new ventures, including a new career in the mortgage lending business. Once again his leadership skills were recognized. He moved in just four years from loan officer to regional manager at National Lending Company of Cerritos, California. Michael courageously battled cancer and diabetes in recent years. He transitioned from this earth on March 30, 2012 at 8:30 am. He leaves to cherish his memory three sons, Michael Grimes of Fresno, CA, Michael Grimes of St Louis, MO and Jamey Grimes of St. Louis, MO; four sisters Sheila Williams of St Louis, MO, Dr. Freida Moore of Memphis, TN, Mary Elizabeth Grimes of St Louis, MO and Felicia (Don) Rifflemacher of Rutland, MA ; one brother, Raun (Alexi) Ruffin of New York, NY; six grandchildren; four nieces; three nephews and a host of family and friends.

Memorial Mass: Monday, April 9, 2012, 10 am, at St. Louis Cathedral Basilica, 4431 Lindell Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63108. Interment: Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, 2900 Sheridan Rd., St. Louis, MO 63125.

Maurice Emerson Washington

February 12, 1925 –March 24, 2012

Maurice Washington

St. Louis, MO, he also took classes at the University of Missouri-St. Louis up to his retirement from the St. Louis Public Schools system in 1996. He was a teacher and administrator for over 30 years at several schools across the city. He had the respect and admiration of his students and co-workers. He was a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Epsilon Lambda Chapter, and did volunteer work with Kingdom House and Meals on Wheels.

He is survived by his loving family, wife, Rowena Washington, daughters Dana Washington, Monica Woods, granddaughter Monika McGee, his brothers Eddie Washington and Louis T. McKinnie. His parents, Cora and Maurice, as well as his sister, Edna Washington, brothers Harold Washington and Leo Claggett preceded him in death.

Thank you to all who loved and respected Maurice. He will be missed.

In Loving Memory of Callie “Doll” Williams-Mansker

Sunrise: May 15, 1936

Sunset: March 31, 2011

You never said I’m leaving You never said goodbye You were gone before I knew it, And only God knew why

A million times, I needed you, A million times I cried. If love alone could have saved you, You never would have died. In life I loved you dearly, In death I love you still. In my heart, you hold a place, That no one could ever fill. It broke my heart to lose you, But you didn’t go alone For part of me went with you, The day God took you home.

Your Loving Siblings: Fannie Williams, Dr. Mary Williams, Genie Williams, Jr. and Deacon Louis Williams, along with a host of nieces and nephews.

Susie Catherine Horne

Susie Catherine Horne, in her 77th year, was summoned home by the Heavenly Father Sunday morning March 25, 2012 while lying in the loving arms of her steadfast husband of over 50 years, George E. Horne, Deputy Fire Chief, Fire Marshal (Ret.), City of St. Louis. Susie accepted and believed in the Lord Jesus Christ and was filled with the

Baptism of the Holy Ghost.

Dear Mother to eldest son Everett A. Horne; daughter-inlaw Phakisha K. Horne; youngest son Christopher C. Horne; baby daughter Cheryl E. Horne (deceased); brothers, Walter (Juanita) Hearn and Gaston (Brenda) Hearn. Her brothers Charles Lloyd Hearn, Robert Floyd Hearn and Albert Leon Hearn preceded her in death. Surviving sister-in-laws are Loveta Hearn, Rebecca Hearn and Letha Hearn, along with a host of her dear nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Susie completed both her elementary and secondary education in the St. Louis Public School System. She was a graduate of Vashon High School, class of 1952 and earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Education from Harris Teachers College, class of 1957.

Susie was a former educator in the St. Louis Public School System specializing in the Primary Grades. She was a dedicated teacher and retired in the winter of 2002 after 46 years of dedicated service.

Susie will be truly missed by all who knew her. Donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America and American Cancer Society.

www.stlamerican.com

www.stlamerican.com www.stlamerican.com

On March 24, 2012, Maurice Emerson Washington III went home to be with the Lord. He passed in his sleep at the Missouri Veterans Home. Maurice was born February 12, 1925 in the Washington, D.C. area to Cora and Maurice Washington II. He was married to Rowena Alexander Washington for 48 years. Maurice was an avid golfer with many awards, as well as an accomplished bowler. He never stopped continuing his education. Though he held three degrees from Wilberforce State College in Wilberforce, Ohio, University of Illinois in Champagne, IL, and Washington University in

www.stlamerican.com

www.stlamerican.com www.stlamerican.com

Callie WilliamsMansker

Susie Horne

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development 800-669-9777 www.hud.gov/fairhousing

Missouri Commission on Human Rights 877-781-4236 www.labor.mo.gov/mohumanrights

Health reform and Missouri seniors

Obama appointee outlines effects of Affordable Care Act

By Sandra Jordan Of The St. Louis American

Just before the U.S. Supreme Court was scheduled to hear arguments on the provision mandating a minimum of health care coverage under the twoyear-old Patient Protection and

Affordable Care Act (ACA), some older Americans in Missouri want the Show Me State to know exactly what’s at stake.

U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius was in St. Louis on March 19 to join a panel put together by the Missouri Alliance for Retired Americans, which included providers and supporters of the health care law to discuss how the legislation has benefitted millions of persons on Medicare.

“In spite of prediction, Medicare has actually gotten stronger in the last two years

U.S. Health and Human Services

Secretary Kathleen Sebelius (center) recently joined a panel in St. Louis about the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) put together by the Missouri Alliance for Retired Americans.

by

under the Affordable Care Act.,” Sebelius said.

“For seniors in the donut hole who take the most prescriptions and run out of drug coverage, there is now a 50 percent discount on brand name drugs, and what that translates to here in Missouri, is that about 78,000 Missouri seniors have saved an average of $630 apiece this year.” Sebelius added many beneficiaries have seen their Medicare premiums fall.

“Medicare Advantage premiums are down this year. Enrollment is up about 10 percent and the premiums have gone down,” she said.

Tough anti-fraud measures in place in the ACA have resulted in returning funds back into the system and criminal and civil penalties for perpetrators. Sebelius said anti fraud activities are being expanded.

“Last year alone we were able to return $4 billion to the Medicare Trust Fund because of those activities and many of the perpetrators are now in prison,” Sebelius said. Other panelists said benefits under the new health care law, such as preventive screenings and consultations with no co-pays, result in better quality of life, better medication adherence and reducing preventable deaths.

Speaking to reporters after the forum, Sebelius said she is confident that the majority of lower court decisions in favor of disputed provisions in the Affordable Care Act will be upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court.

“The majority of judges at the appellate court level have found the law fully constitutional, even some who have ruled against a component, find the rest of the law constitutional,” Sebelius said.

“There’s about 70 years of precedent where the Supreme Court has continued to uphold Congress broadening the powers of the Commerce Clause, which is really what this is about – anything that deals with interstate commerce moves back and forth across state lines. This is in part about the health care law, but also about the Congressional powers under the Commerce Clause and they continue to broaden it, not narrow it.”

Portions of the health reform law are not fully in effect until 2014, such as health care exchanges to purchase affordable insurance, to which states have the right to opt out. Sebelius said even if Missouri says “no” to creating an exchange, Missourians will can get insurance through federal exchanges.

“If the state does not set up a state-run exchange, we will have an exchange available, a new market available for residents of Missouri,” she said.

“So one way or the other, the folks who are eager for more affordable health coverage – who maybe don’t have insurance at all or can’t afford what they have – will have the benefits of the Affordable Care Act come 2014.”

The minimum coverage provision being argued in the U.S. Supreme Court requires un-exempted individuals to maintain a minimum level of health coverage or pay a tax penalty. For more information the Affordable Care Act, visit CoverMissouri.org or healthcare.gov.

Photo

Wiley Price

Imagine College Prep High School ’s graduating seniors have been accepted to these Colleges and Universities:

Alabama A&M University * Alabama State University * Alcorn State University * Avila University * Benedict College * Central State University * Fontbonne University * Furman University * Graceland University * Harris-Stowe State University * Hickey College * Howard University * ITT Technical Institute * Jefferson College * Kansas State University * Langston University * Le Cordon Bleu * Lincoln University * Miles College * Millikin University * Missouri Baptist University * Missouri Southern State University * Missouri State University * Missouri Valley College * Missouri Western University * Morris College * Murray State University * Northwest Missouri State University * Philander Smith College * Prairie View A & M Un iversity * Ranken Technical College * Robert Morri s University * Rust College * South Carolina State University * Southeast Missouri State University * Southern Illinois University of Edwardsville * St. Louis Community College * St. Louis University * Talladega College * Tennessee State University * Texas College * Texas Southern University * Tuskegee University * Tyler J unior College * University of Arkansas, Pine Bluff * University of Central Missouri * University of Missouri, Columbia * University of Missou ri, Kansas City * University of Missouri - St. Louis * Wabash Valley College * Westmin ster College *

Imagine

WE’RE HARD AT WORK ON WHAT MATTERS MOST IN

At Bank of America, we’re working every day to help support small businesses, homeowners and nonpro t organizations in Missouri. We’re lending, investing and giving to fuel the local economy and create stronger communities.

HERE’S WHAT WE’RE DOING:

$86.8 MILLION Loaned in new credit to Missouri small businesses in 2011, to help them grow, hire and strengthen the area economy.

14,666 Worked with Missouri homeowners facing nancial difficulty since 2008, to modify their mortgages.

$3.45 MILLION Committed to Missouri nonpro ts since 2011, to help continue their good work.

To learn more about how Bank of America is hard at work in Missouri, please visit bankofamerica.com/facts

BUSINESS

Express Scripts completes $29.1B acquisition of Medco

Holmes: ‘African Americans will be able to compete for these jobs’

By Chris King Of The St.Louis American

When Express Scripts Inc. said Monday that it had completed its $29.1 billion acquisition of Medco Health Solutions Inc., Express Scripts became both the largest national employer in the St. Louis region and the largest pharmacy benefits manager nationwide – by far – with more than $100 billion in annual revenue. Last year, Medco (the largest pharmacy benefits manager, or PBM) had $70 billion in revenue and Express Scripts (the third-largest PBM) had $46 billion in revenue.

The Federal Trade Commissiongave its blessing Monday morning, voting 3 to 1 in favor of the deal, which has raised anti-trust

China Hub effort regroups

Plans to revive bid to make Lambert cargo hub

By Jo Mannies Of The Beacon

concerns. The acquisition was approved by shareholders in December.

“For once, a St. Louis company is the acquirer as opposed to being acquired,” said Mike Jones, senior policy analyst for County Executive Charlie A. Dooley, voicing a celebratory tone heard throughout the region.

“This is outstanding news for the entire bistate region and is a great example of the entrepreneurial spirit of St. Louis,” said St. Louis Regional Chamber and Growth

Association (RCGA) Executive Vice President for Economic Development Steve Johnson.

“This is a transformative development in the health care industry. The Express Scripts/Medco deal makes an existing Fortune 100 headquarters company an even greater success in our region.”

An Express Scripts spokesperson said three Medco executives would be moving to Express Scripts – Glen Stettin, senior vice president of clinical, research and new solutions; Tim Wentworth, See MEDCO, B2

Young man with a finance plan

Colin Witherspoon went from Crossroads to the Wharton School

By Rebecca S.Rivas Of The St.Louis American

“If you’re on a bus with flat tires,’’Mike Jones said, “you’re not going anywhere.”

Last week a panel headed by Dan Mehan, chief executive of the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry, presented a report detailing how to reorganize the longstanding Midwest China Hub Commission and kick-start the campaign to woo the Chinese and other international shippers to use Lambert airport as a trade gateway. That report included recommendations on a new commission chief. Mike Jones, a top adviser to St. Louis County Executive Charlie Dooley, expects to step down after four years as the commission’s chairman, with the aim of reshaping the group “to transition into a more permanent operating structure.”

The commission also will have fewer financial resources since no additional state aid is expected. Still, Mehan says, one element of the reorganization will be a heightened role for state officials, in an apparent attempt to make the hub effort less of a regional issue and more of a Missouri trade effort.

State House Speaker Steve Tilley, R-Perryville, says he expects his chamber’s soon-to-be-unveiled economic development bill to resurrect proposed

See HUB, B2

College junior Colin Witherspoon lives in the beautiful Barcelona, Spain – at least for the spring semester. And he couldn’t be happier, he said.

“I try to step outside my comfort zone everyday in order to experience life to the fullest and things in life that I would otherwise never know about,” said Witherspoon, a student from St. Louis studying finance at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

The only thing gnawing at his stomach is whether or not he’ll find a finance-related internship in St. Louis this summer.

Witherspoon would like to get some experience in finance under his belt coming out of college and work for a couple of years in the field.

“Since arriving to Barcelona, I have had a hard time acquiring an internship because on campus recruiting at my school is in the spring semester,” he said.“Suffice it to say that I think most employers are looking for an applicant that can interview for a position face-to-face.” Witherspoon graduated from Crossroads College Preparatory School in 2009 as an APScholar with distinction, a varsity basketball player and captain of the soccer team.

His biggest mentors have been his par-

PEOPLEON THE MOVE

Craig Shields received the Advocacy and Civic Leader Community Champions Award from Molina Healthcare as one of the unsung heroes who works behind the scenes to make Missouri a better place. For 10 years, Shields has been a tireless volunteer serving area youth. Shields has organized several projects from offering free haircuts and hair styles to providing book bags and school supplies.

ents, Jan Good and Brian Witherspoon, as well as his late grandmother, Ella Mae Witherspoon.

“They have taught me to stay true to myself despite what anyone says or does,” he said.“They have also taught me to work hard day in and day out and to not get too down on yourself when times are tough.”

His family is a unique group, he said. Both of his parents are federal public defenders in downtown St. Louis, and his younger brother turns 17 in May.

“We are a pretty tight-knit clan, although sometimes my parents and I have to rein in my brother,” he said.

“My family has provided me with amazing support in all of my endeavors, and I wouldnot be the person I am today

Alma Scarborough of Scarborough’s Tax Affair has been approved as an IRSapproved continuing education provider. She becomes the first African-American provider in the entire state and the only provider on the east side of Missouri. Continuing education providers must meet stringent standards as outlined by the IRS. Unlicensed preparers must receive 15 CE hours by December 31 to be able to transmit returns

iGUIDE Leadership Team, a student leadership organization. He is a legislative aide for state Sen. Robin WrightJones.

BUSINESS BRIEFS

New MO businesses climb 13.6 percent in 2011

More new businesses started in Missouri last year than in 2010.

New business formations climbed 13.6 percent last year, totaling 15,328 compared to 13,492 during 2010, according to the Missouri Economic Research & Information Center.

According to a new report, which breaks down the startups by county, new business formations were led by St. Louis, Kansas City and Springfield.

Private household employers, such as in-home caretaking and cooking, accounted for 29 percent of all new formations, according to the research.

Professional, scientific andtechnical services placed second, accounting for 11 percent of business startups, followed by administrative support services and specialty contractors.

Missouri moved into the top 10 in another report comparing states’entrepreneurial activity. The state jumped from 35 to 6 in the “Kauffman Index of Entrepreneurial Activity for 2011” report.

SBAoffering $30M in grants to boost exports

The U.S. Small Business Administration is inviting states and U.S. territories to apply for $30 million in grants that can be used in a variety of ways to help increase exporting by small businesses. SBAbegan accepting applications on March 27.

The State Trade and Export Promotion (STEP) grant initiative, launched under the Small Business Jobs Act of 2010, is a pilot grant program authorizing up to $90 million in grants to the states and U.S. territories over three years to help them increase the number of businesses that export, as well as the value of exports by small businesses. In fiscal year 2011, the STEPprogram awarded 52 grants totaling $30 million. The average grant was for $577,000. The grant announcement is posted at www.Grants.gov on March 27, 2012. The application period will be March 27, 2012 through May 17, 2012. Awards will be issued by September 30, 2012. See more information at www.sba.gov/STEP.

Kaylan Holloway

Craig

Alma Scarborough

Colin Witherspoon

The Express Scripts Research & New Solutions Team inside the Express Scripts Lab on the corporate campus at NorthPark.

George Paz,CEO

How long will it take to double my money?

Before making any investment decision, one of the key elements you face is working out the real rate of return on your investment.

Compound interest is critical to investment growth. Whether your financial portfolio consists solely of a deposit account at your local bank or a series of highly leveraged investments, your rate of return is dramatically improved by the compounding factor.

With simple interest, interest is paid just on the principal. With compound interest, the return that you receive on your initial investment is automatically reinvested. In other

MEDCO

Continued from B1

senior vice president of sales & account management; and Brian Griffin, a senior vice president of international and subsidiaries – but would not speculate on any impact on jobs.

“In terms of job numbers, we’d rather not speculate on any site,” said Express Scripts spokesperson Brian Henry.

“But if you look at our history in St. Louis, this is the third merger completed in the past decade or so, and in that time we’ve doubled the size of the company, this will be third time. When we’ve done that, each time we’ve seen growth in St. Louis facilities.”

Michael Holmes, a former executive vice president who left Express Scripts to found the not-for-profit Rx Outreach, was more willing to speculate.

“This will provide great opportunities for employment in St. Louis,” Holmes said. “Probably they will have to rationalize some redundancies that exist, but in the aggregate

HUB

Continued from B1 state tax breaks for freight-forwarders, to encourage them to direct more cargo shipments in and out of Lambert. The other legislative portion of the trade pitch – tax credits to encourage more warehouse construction around Lambert –is less likely to find support in the General Assembly, Tilley acknowledged. And even the freight-forwarder portion may face obsta-

words, you receive interest on the interest.

But just how quickly does your money grow? The easiest way to work that out is by using what's known as the “Rule of 72.”1 Quite simply, the “Rule of 72” enables you to determine how long it will take for the money you've invested on a compound interest basis to double. You divide 72 by the interest rate to get the answer.

For example, if you invest $10,000 at 10 percent compound interest, then the “Rule of 72” states that in 7.2 years you will have $20,000. You divide 72 by 10 percent to get the time it takes for your

there will be more opportunities in St. Louis in the long run than most people realize.”

Express Scripts is headquarted at North Park in North County, adjacent to the campus of the University of Missouri –St. Louis. The location alone raises hopes for a positive economic impact on the black community.

“In the African-American community, we have to ask the advantage question – where am I in this?” said Mike Jones. “St. Louis is going to be bigger and stronger in one of the most prominent industries in the country. The question is, how do we take that and begin to figure out what our participation can or should be?”

U.S. Rep. Wm. Lacy Clay represents Missouri’s majorityblack 1st Congressional District, where Express Scripts is located.

“We hope the hierarchy of the company will reflect the makeup of this community and that their corporate giving also will reflect the needs of the entire St. Louis community,” Clay said. “I look forward to growing that partnership with Express Scripts.”

cles in the state Senate, where Sen. Jason Crowell, R-Cape Girardeau, has promised to continue his fight against state tax credit programs. Crowell helped kill proposed breaks for the China hub proposal – also known as Aerotropolis – during legislative efforts last year. He got some help from legislators wary of what they viewed as an ill-conceived quest to encourage more trade with China, seen by some as taking away manufacturing jobs that used to be in the United States – and Missouri.

By Charles Ross PERSONAL FINANCE

money to double. The “Rule of 72” is a rule of thumb that gives approximate results. It is most accurate for hypothetical rates between 5 and 20 percent. While compound interest is a great ally to an investor, inflation is one of the greatest enemies. The “Rule of 72” can also highlight the damage that inflation can do to your

Charles Ross

money. Let’s say you decide not to invest your $10,000 but hide it under your mattress instead. Assuming an inflation rate of 4.5 percent, in 16 years your $10,000 will have lost half of its value. The real rate of return is the key to how quickly the value of your investment will grow. If you are receiving 10 percent

According to an Express Scripts spokesperson, minorities comprise 37 percent of the company’s total workforce.

African Americans make up 26.3 percent of its workforce in St. Louis.

“We consider varied points of view to be a positive force that stimulates creative thinking and fosters an environment built on mutual respect,”

George Paz, CEO of Express Scripts, said in a statement to The American. “Being actively committed both to building a diversified workforce and to

‘It’s not just the Chinese’

Mehan says that too much has been made of the Chinese angle and not enough of the trade from other countries that St. Louis and Missouri business leaders hope to attract to Lambert.

“It’s not just the Chinese; it’s the whole effort to land international flights at Lambert,’’said Mehan. “Just because the legislature could not agree on the tax credit package, that hasn’t changed the business objective. The business case is still there, and we’re going to pursue it.”

Last fall, for example, legislators heard from farmers who already ship live animals and grain to China and believe they’d save money if they could ship from St. Louis instead of transporting the animals and farm products to Chicago.But rural lawmakers, in particular, also heard privately from small businesses that feared they would be hurt if more overseas goods were shipped into the Midwest through St. Louis because the land transportation costs would likely be cheaper.

In any case, soon after the General Assembly killed off the last tax-credit package last fall, a Chinese cargo airline ended what had been hoped to be weekly cargo flights into

working with diversely owned businesses makes us a stronger, more competitive company.”

In terms of “growing partnerships” with the community, as Congressman Clay calls for, an Express Scripts spokesperson said the company’s diversity initiative includes seeking to “develop meaningful partnerships with small and diverse-owned businesses,” creating “successful partnerships with diverse businesses that help strengthen our capabilities” and active involve-

Lambert. The last flight was in late October.

Airport director Rhonda Hamm-Niebruegge sees a possible link between the lack of legislative action and the lack of Chinese flights. “In our opinion, ‘yes,’it had an impact,” said the director.

Lambert has been touting its location in the heart of the Midwest – as well as its excess capacity ever since Trans World Airlines, which had a hub at Lambert, was bought out by American Airlines in 2001.

Authority for state tax credits has been sought to encourage the construction of more warehouses next to the airport. Critics have cited some nearby warehouse vacancies, but HammNiebruegge says the shortage is of the type of warehouses –especially refrigerated facilities – that shippers need.

Of the six warehouses owned by the airport, the director says five are leased to various airlines, while the sixth is leased to China Cargo.

Aside from the lack of Chinese flights, HammNiebruegge is concerned that St. Louis’efforts may get nosed out by those elsewhere, where state governments appear to be more supportive. “Alot of other states out there understand the benefit of

interest on an investment but inflation is running at 4 percent, then your real rate of return is 6 percent. In such a scenario, it will take your money 12 years to double in value.

The “Rule of 72” is a quick and easy way to determine the value of compound interest over time. By taking the real rate of return into consideration (nominal interest less inflation), you can see how soon a particular investment will double the value of your money.

1 The Rule of 72 is a mathematical concept, and the hypothetical return illustrated is not representative of a specific investment. Also note that the principal and yield of securities will fluctuate with changes in market conditions so that the shares, when sold, may be worth more or less than their original cost.The Rule of 72 does not include adjustments for income or taxation. It assumes that interest is compounded annually.Actual results will vary. Charles Ross is host of the syndicated radio program “Your Personal Finance.” Contact him at P.O. Box 870928; Stone Mountain, Georgia 30087; or email to charles@ charlesross.com.

ment in the National Minority Supplier Development Council, Women’s Business Enterprise National Council and their local affiliates.

Jones pointed out that it is easier to grow minority inclusion when a company is growing, which has not been the typical case in St. Louis, for the most part, for decades.

“It’s easier to have conversation – where am I in all of this? – when you are on the winning side,” Jones said.

“That’s been our problem in the last 50 years: we’ve been losing businesses, not acquiring them.”

Holmes, the former senior Express Scripts executive, said there is room for African Americans in the company’s pending growth.

“African Americans will be able to compete effectively for these jobs,” Holmes said.

“Like with any large employer, you’ve got to be good to work there or you’re not going to make it. But if you are good, you can have a great career there.”

Express Scripts has a very large pharmacy on-site, so Holmes foresees more posi-

doing these things,” she said. Her examples include neighboring Illinois. “Here’s a state that believes,” the director said. “They’re putting their money forward, which validates our point.”

Such a competitor, although both sides avoid using that word, is MidAmerica St. Louis Airport in Mascoutah, Ill., where officials say they’ve been wooing China and other countries far longer than Lambert.

Afew weeks ago, the St. Clair County Board approved $550 million in tax-exempt revenue bonds for a Chesterfield-based company, Strategic Air Cargo Inc., to sell to finance the construction of a hangar, warehouse and office building. Strategic Air is seeking to entice international cargo traffic.

County board chairman Mark Kern emphasized that the county isn’t on the hook for the bonds’repayment. It will be up to Strategic Air to find bond buyers and to repay them.

St. Clair County also has provided incentives for the construction of a new refrigerated warehouse adjacent to MidAmerica’s runway. After 23 years, the facility will be wholly owned by the airport.

The political backdrop in Illinois also is friendly. “We

tions for pharmacy technicians and “sundry jobs that you expect in corporate America.” He anticipates a positive economic spillover effect to North County.

“They chose specifically to be on that campus, and they will help to revitalize that area,” Holmes said.

“We will see new restaurants and other support organizations.”

This win for North County and the St. Louis region could face a challenge in the courts. Last week, an alliance of drugstores and community pharmacists filed a federal lawsuit to block the deal, saying it would create a giant pharmacy benefits manager with too much leverage and market share. The plaintiffs have sought to prohibit the merger until the litigation has been resolved, but many community pharmacists concede that they are not likely to succeed in blocking the deal in the courts. The deal creates a pharmacy benefits manager able to handle the prescriptions of about 135 million people, more than one-third of all Americans.

find the legislature and the governor’s office to be supportive of our effort,” Kern said.

$3M boost to Hub

Yesterday it was announced that the China Hub effort had gotten a boost from $3 million in new resources that will be used to attract freight business to Lambert – and a new name.

This investment occurs as the Midwest-China Hub Commission transitions into phase two.Dan Mehan, the commission’s newly elected chairman, says it now will be known as the Midwest Hub Commission. The investment was made possible by the Missouri Department of Economic Development.The Department of Economic Developmentapproved a $3 million Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) for the Lemay community.County and local officials developed a plan to make use of these CDBG funds, meeting specific legal requirements for the CDBG program.

Reprinted with permission and edited slightly from stlbeacon.org.

The Express Scripts Technology Innovation Center on North Hanley.

“I think’s she’s one of a kind.As a post player, she’s the best I’ve ever seen.”

— Notre Dame women’s basketball coach on Baylor All-American center Brittney Griner

TRACKAND FIELD NOTEBOOK

With Earl Austin Jr.

The 2012 watch list

The high school track and field season is off to a good start in the St. Louis metropolitan area. The record temperatures have enabled the athletes to put together some excellent early-season performances.

As we get into the 2012 track and field season, here are some of the athletes to watch in the St. Louis metropolitan area.

Boys:

Chris Caldwell (Lafayette): The returning Class 4 state champion in the 110-meter high hurdles.

Jehu Chesson (Ladue): The returning Class 4 state champion in the 300-meter intermediate hurdles.

Ezekiel Elliott (John Burroughs): The returning Class 3 state champion in the 110meter high hurdles. Also a national AAU champion in the 400-meter hurdles.

Anthony Davis’astounding length and athleticism created havoc for KU players throughout the game.

By Earl Austin Jr.

Of The St.Louis American

Here is a capsule look at the members of the 2012 St. Louis American “Fab Five” Girls All-Star Basketball Team.

Emmonnie Henderson (Edwardsville): A powerful force for the Tigers, the 6’2” Henderson led Edwardsville to a 34-2 record and a berth in the IHSAClass 4Astate-championship game. Henderson averaged a teamhigh 15.6 points and 6.8 rebounds. In the state semifinals, she grabbed a state-tournament record 20 rebounds in a victory over Wilmette Loyola Academy. Aprime-time athlete in track and field as well, Henderson will be one of the nation’s top recruits next season.

Shanity James (MillerCareerAcademy): Afour-year starter, the versatile James ended her career in fine style by leading the Phoenix to a third-place finish in the Missouri Class 4 state tournament. As a senior, the 5’11” James averaged 15.1 points, 6.2 rebounds, 2.9 assists and 2.7 steals. She also provided the veteran leadership for a very young and talented team. James has signed with Arkansas-Little Rock.

Marc Franks (Hazelwood Central): One of the top all-around sprinters in the state returns for the defending Class 4 state champions.

Charles Jones (Cardinal Ritter): Outstanding young performer in the 400 and 800. National AAU champion in the 800.

Alfred Larry (Jennings): The returning Class 3 state champion in the 400-meter dash.

Aaron Mallet (McCluerNorth):

See TRACK, B5

Fab Five Girls All-Star Team

Sharese Jones, Francis Howell Central

Sharese Jones (Francis Howell Central): The younger sister of former St. Louis American Player of the Year Shakara Jones, Sharese has cut her own niche as a top player. As a senior, Jones averaged 20.4 points and 7.4

Shanity James, Miller Career Academy

Manuel, Incarnate Word

rebounds to lead the Spartans to a berth in the Missouri Class 5 state quarterfinals. She was the Gateway Athletic Conference South Player of the Year. Jones ended her career with a 35-point performance against Fort Zumwalt South in the Class 5 quarterfinals. Jones is headed to Missouri Southern University.

Mikala McGhee (Pattonville): Athreesport star at Pattonville, the 5’11” guard ended

Henderson,

her career as one of the Pirates’all-time great basketball players. As a senior, McGhee averaged 20.7 points, 9.3 rebounds, 5.1 steals and 4.4 assists per game. She was the Suburban North Conference Player of the Year for the second consecutive year after leading the Pirates to a 22-4 record and a league title. McGhee has signed with Missouri State

H.

Anthony Davis, the Kentucky Wildcats freshman phenom, might as well have showed up to Monday night’s title game in a cape. The Naismith Award-winning player showed up in superhero form as he made onlookers marvel at his impact on the game. But it wasn’t an offensive outburst that earned him the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player award - it was pure, unadulterated, dominating defense. From the onset of the game, both Davis and Kansas center Jeff Withey looked to set a defensive tone by protecting the paint. In what looked to be a game of one-upmanship, the battling centers took turns rejecting and altering shots from the opposing team’s players. But despite having a few balls sent into the stands, Kentucky players continued to press the ball up court and attack the rim with success.

Mizzou fans salute you, Mr.Davis.

Meanwhile, Davis’astounding length and athleticism created havoc for KU players throughout the game. Though he finished with 16 rebounds and six blocks, his defensive presence accounted for numerous misses and missteps by his flustered opponents. With less 30 seconds left on the clock and down by six points, Kansas guard Elijah Johnson spotted up for what could’ve been a huge three point shot. Davis hustled from the post and vaulted his lengthy 6’10” frame high in the sky. Predictably rattled by a front-row viewing of one of the most dominant defensive performances since Patrick Ewing roamed the NCAAhardwood, Johnson froze up with fear, dropped the ball until Super Davis flew by, resulting in a traveling violation.

The play was a microcosm of the game. While Davis had a subpar night on the offensive end, with just six points, his smothering defense instilled fear in the Jayhawks. What’s more amazing is that Kansas’All-American Thomas Robinson’s monster stat line of 18 points and 17 rebounds nearly went unnoticed by fans. Though he outplayed Davis by

See CLUTCH, B5

Ishmael

Sistrunk

Taylor

Mikala McGhee, Pattonville

Emmonnie

Edwardsville

McCluer's Alana Ray wins the Girls High Jump with a leap of 5'2" during Saturday's Suburban North Relays at McCluer North high school.

CLAIB’S CALL

With Mike Claiborne

Good news/bad news for2012 Redbirds

JUPITER, FLA. – My how things have changed since that last out in late October that saw the Redbirds win their ninth championship. Gone are manager Tony La Russa and some of the front office personnel. Also the first baseman who for the last 11 years was the best player in the game.

Enter first year manager Mike Matheny, who before now had never managed anywhere professionally, yet many think he is the right man for one of the most coveted jobs in the game.

As for the players, time for the good news/bad news bit.

Mike Claiborne

The bad news is Chris Carpenter will start the season on the disabled list with a bulging disk that is affecting a nerve in his neck and shoulder. The good news is that Adam Wainwright is back after being out the entire season due to elbow surgery. Wainwright was sharp during the spring and looked like he the Adam of old, 20-win form perhaps.

The bad news is that the best player in the game has moved on to greener pastures. The good news is it was never an issue raised by any player during spring training, and this team is sculpted in a different manner to win. The Cardinals won twice in his 11 years with the team and went to the World Series one other time. That means that someone else won it nine times without him, the same way these Cardinals will have to do it. Can history repeat itself? You would have to go back to the Cincinnati Reds of the mid-‘70s to find a team from the National league that has won back-to-back championships. The balance of power has shifted in the National League, as the two best power-hitting first basemen have moved to

the American League with the Angels’acquisition of youknow-who and Prince Fielder (formerly of the Milwaukee Brewers) now getting his mail in Detroit. There is no dominant team in the National League. Before you start to count the Phillies, let me remind you that they will be without Ryan Howard for a bit and they are aging in some areas. Yes, their pitching is good but the Cardinals proved in the post-season that that can be solved. So who else makes you shake? Yep, no one. If you are

a Cardinals fan, you have to say, “Why not us?” There are a lot of returning faces in new roles. Lance Berkman will move to first base with newcomer and former Cardinal killer Carlos Beltran patrolling right field. Beltran has had some knee problems and is looking to prove he still has game. He is a graceful player in everything he does.

Who makes you shake? Yep, no one.If you are a Cardinals fan, you have to say, “Why not us?”

At second base, Tyler Greene was given the position in spring training and he has held onto it. Perhaps the best athlete on the team, Greene has speed, range and some pop. He just needs to avoid the strikeout and not get himself out.

FAB FIVE

Continued from B3

Univesity, where she will play basketball.

TaylorManuel (Incarnate Word Academy): The St. Louis American Player of the Year, the 6’4” senior did-it-all for the Red Knights as one of the most versatile post players in the history of St. Louis girls prep basketball. As a senior,

Rafael Furcal was the difference-maker for the Cardinals upon his arrival late last year. Furcal is the best shortstop the Cardinals have had since Ozzie left. Health is a factor for him as he has had an assortment of injuries that have slowed him down over the last five years. If he can go 130-140 games with the skill set we have seen in the past, then the Cardinals will be giddy.

Post-season hero David Freese had a good spring. He fought it a bit at the end but he stayed healthy. He too needs to get 140-plus games in and if he does, look out.

As for the outfield, Matt Holliday had a torrid spring.

Manuel averaged 15.4 points, 9.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 2.0 steals and 2.9 blocks to lead Incarnate Word to a third-place finish in the Missouri Class 5 state tournament. Manuel will continue her career at Purdue next season.

St.Louis American “Fab Five”Girls All-Star Teams

First Team

Emmonnie Henderson 6’2” Edwardsville (Jr.)

Shanity James 5’11” Miller Career Academy (Sr.)

Sharese Jones 5’9” Francis Howell Central (Sr.)

He hit everything he saw, and he hit it hard. He will bat in the three spot this season, and he could have the monster of monster seasons. Holliday is ready to take on the challenge.

Jon Jay was as solid as an outfielder for the Cardinals last season. I am amused by talk show hosts who think there is always someone better than him the Cardinals should be playing. He supplanted Ryan Ludwick two years ago to play right field everyday down the stretch, and last season he was the main reason why the Cardinals were able to trade Colby Rasmus. He struggled offensively during post-season play, but he was also responsible for game six continuing with a big run he scored.

In pitching they were solid

Mikala McGhee 5’11”

Pattonville (Sr.)

TaylorManuel 6’4” Incarnate Word (Sr.)

Second Team Joymesia Howard 6’1” East St. Louis (Sr.)

Courtney Powell 5’8”

Westmister Christian (Sr.)

TaylorRobinson 6’4” Ladue (Jr.)

Jordan Thompson 5’7”

Webster Groves (Sr.)

Cierra Young 5’8” Incarnate Word (Sr.)

Third Team

AmberAlexander 5’10” Parkway North (Jr.)

Braennan Farrar 5’5”

during the spring where in most cases five or six innings were required. IfJamie Garcia, Jake Westbrook and KyleLohse pitch with that mentality when the games are for real then the Cardinals will not win, as five and fly is the best way to burn up a bull pen. The pen is set with Jason Motte returning as the closer. Motte was very good down the stretch, and he will be counted on even more now. The setup man from the right side will be Fernando Salas, who had 20 saves last year and was the guy who kept the Cardinals in it after Ryan Franklin faltered. Mark Rzyepcinski has nasty stuff from the left side, and he made the left-handed hitters pay dearly. He was terrific this spring and will be counted on to deal on the righties on occasion as well. The rest of the pen is the same as last season, with the exception of veteran right-handed reliever Scott Linebrink.

As for the catching, Yadier Molina is still the best in the game. He will catch at least a 150 games, and his backup will be Tony Cruz. Cruz saw action with the Cardinals last year and accounted for himself well. If there is a concern, that would be the bench as there is no real Major League experience other than the games Daniel Descalso played last year and the few games Shane Robinson has played in over the years. Rule five acquisition Eric Komatsu never played beyond AAball with the Washington Nationals, and he will be on this team all season no matter how good or bad he plays as he cannot be sent to the minors. Until the return of Skip Schumaker and Allan Craig from the disabled list, the Cardinals will be a little thin on the experience side. They will be fun to watch. They will battle and they will find various ways to win, as speed and base running will return. That does not mean this will be the return of Vince Coleman, Willie McGee and Ozzie Smith, but there will be more first-to-third plays and also first-to-home. OK, there will be a runner lost from time to time, but it can be exciting. Then again, it’s only exciting when you win – and I expect the Cardinals to do their fair share.

Miller Career Academy (Soph.)

Hali Ford 5’10” Affton (Sr.)

Jasmin Mathews 5’9” Troy (Sr.)

Mariah Sunkett 6’1” Belleville East (Sr.)

Fourth Team

Stephanie Anderson 5’10”

Whitfield (Jr.)

Alexis Chappelle 5’6” Hazelwood Central (Jr.)

Aaryana Cook 5’4”

Jennings (Jr.)

Alexis Robinson 6’0”

Hazelwood West (Jr.)

Kadejah Sanderson 5’5” Beaumont (Sr.)

Despite the loss of Chris Carpenter for the beginning of the season,the Cardinals have an optimistic outlook in 2012 after getting back a healthy Adam Wainwright who missed all of 2011.

Photo by Bill Greenblatt/UPI

Ezekiel Elliott commits to Ohio State

By Earl Austin Jr.

Anthony Davis,the Kentucky Wildcats

freshman phenom and Naismith Awardwinning player made onlookers marvel at his impact on the game.But it wasn’t an offensive outburst that earned him the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player award - it was pure, unadulterated, dominating defense.

the numbers, the freshman’s impact on the game was more profound as he capped off an amazing season and will likely gather up all his accolades and awards before flying off in the night to the sunset to redeem his mega millions ticket as the number one selection in the upcoming NBAdraft.

Mizzou fans salute you, Mr. Davis.

Birds on bat

Now that the national

championship game is past, St. Louisans can turn their attention to the World Champion Cardinals as they gear up to defend their amazing 2011 title. Gone are skipper Tony LaRussa and superstar slugger Albert Pujols, whose automatic .300+ average and 100+ RBIs relocated to a different zip code and tax bracket. In his place are a recovered Adam Wainwright, who missed the entire 2011 season after Tommy John surgery, Carlos Beltran and Manager Mike Matheny, who hopes to return the Redbirds to the post-Pujols promised land.

Matheny is actually in an oddly ideal situation for a

rookie manager. If he returns the team to the postseason, he’ll be lauded as a genius and a great hire. If the team fails, much of the blame will fall on the loss of Pujols, LaRussa and former pitching coach Dave Duncan. I love that Matheny is seemingly embracing the return of speed to the Cardinals lineup. With the big bats of Pujols, Lance Berkman and Matt Holliday, LaRussa was always reluctant to set runners free on the basepath. With Pujols gone, look for Matheny to put more players in motion to help create runs. It won’t be Whiteyball but could be a nice fusion of styles of two of

Follow In the Clutch on Twitter @intheclutchstl and online at

Emmonnie

Joymesia Howard (East St. Louis): Outstanding hurdler and jumper returns for the IHSAClass 3Astate champs.

Markita Rush (East St. Louis): The defending IHSA Class 3Astate champion in the 300-meter low hurdles.

Tianna Valentine (Hazelwood East): The defending Class 4 state champion in the 100-meter dash.

the greatest Cardinals managers in history.

stlamerican.com.

Standout Ezekiel Elliott of John Burroughs has given a verbal commitment to The Ohio State University.

Commerce Bank: There is no place like Home Equity

By:Jeannine Murphy, Commerce Bank

Home improvement and debt consolidation remain the top uses for home equity loans.

COLIN

Continued from B1

without them.They encourage me to go out and experience the world on my own. They have not only taught me a lot about life, but every time I go home I can count on learning something new that I can take back to college.”

While a strong student of economics, Witherspoon also has a passion for environmental

best option. If you decide to take

issues and a keen taste for fine arts.

In 2010, he acted as a liaison between a student group and Earth Aid Inc., an environmental flagship service that tracks households’energy consumption and offers coupons in exchange for reduction in energy use.

That experience built upon his background as a student teacher in the Eco Act Environmental Leadership Program at the Missouri Botanical Garden St. Louis.

advantage of a home equity loan, a lender can help you choose the type of loan that is right for you.

Whether you are making home improvements, consolidating bills or have a major purchase, the current low interest rates and potential tax benefits may make a home equity loan an appealing option.

Jeannine Murphy is the Banking Center Manager for the Commerce Bank, Natural Bridge Banking Center, 4401 Natural Bridge

During the summers of 2007 and 2008, he taught children in inner-city public schools about environment and sustainability through the program.

Aside from promoting sustainability, Witherspoon is also actively involved in a student organization that coordinates social events to promote fine arts for Penn students on campus. The group, Social Planning+ Events (SPEC) Art Gallery, organizes trips to auction houses and exhibitions and other events. Last fall, he interned at Philadelphia’s Bridgette Mayer Gallery, an abstract and contemporary art gallery that represents various local and national artists.

Ultimately, Witherspoon would like to get some experience in finance under his belt coming out of college and work for a couple of years in the field.Then he would like to start his own business.

“I look forward to living my life, learning, loving, traveling, and laughing,” he said. “I think a lot of times people are too focused on getting through the journey rather than experiencing it.”

Financial Focus

By Andre Nelson financial advisor

for income

Taliya King, Lisa Potts and Lashell Blissit, are the savvy girl-powered business team and owners of The Dollhouse Studios, 1428 Washington Ave.

Fit, flirty and fabulous

By Lydia McGhee For The St. Louis American

When three strangers met for the first time at a trendy Clayton exercise facility, they had no idea that their collective sweat, blood and hard work would materialize in one of the newest and hottest exercise facilities in downtown St. Louis.

Lashell Blissit, Taliya King and Lisa Potts are the savvy girl-powered business team and owners of The Dollhouse Studios, a women’s fitness facility located at 1428 Washington Ave. that opened in September 2011. This is no sweaty, intimidating, meatmarket gym. This fabulous fitness

studio is adorned with posh decor and contagiously positive energy. From the lobby to the kitchen to the pole fitness studio – yes, the pole studio – you can learn how to reclaim your inner-sexy while getting fit and healthy.

The Dollhouse Studios was founded to help women achieve fitness goals in a comfortable and positive environment. These owner/ instructors pride themselves on mixing exercise and nutrition with the latest in cardio-fitness and toning. The roster of classes includes various pole classes, Stiletto Striptease, Video

The Dollhouse Studios makes getting in shape sexy See FIT, C4

High school football documentary explores impact of positive males

By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American

“Football doesn’t build character, it reveals it.”

That single quote by coach Bill Courtney in the opening scenes of Daniel Lindsay and T.J. Martin’s Academy-Award winning documentary Undefeated grabs the audience, and the movie never lets them go.

Courtney is the volunteer coach of the Manassas Tigers, a struggling high school football team in the heart of Memphis’ inner-city. After six years of coaching the skeletal program, Courtney and his team set their eyes on winning a single district championship game – something the school hadn’t done in its 100-year history.

But as Courtney and his team press forward, they quickly realize that the obstacles in their way reach beyond the football field.

The prep sports feel-good news feature “Raising O.C. – Three Families Have Arms Around This Top Prospect” by Jason Smith of the Memphis Commercial Appeal sparked the interest of filmmakers Lindsay and Martin. What started out as the story of one athlete’s uphill climb resulted in a powerful, touching and inclusive experience in Undefeated

As the patriarch of the program, Courtney attempts to compensate for what most of the boys are missing at home – a positive male influence.

Undefeated, directed by Daniel Lindsay and T.J. Martin, opens in St. Louis on Friday, April 6.

Dana G. Randolph

Native St. Louisan and retired Nightline journalist Vicki Mabrey

How to place a calendar listing

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

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

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

concerts

Sat., Apr. 7, 6 p.m., The Ambassador presents 8Ball, MJG, and Bun-B Live in Concert. 9800 Halls Ferry Rd., 63136.For more information, call (314) 680-2775.

Apr. 7 – 8, Jazz St. Louis and Wells Fargo Advisors present Joshua Redman – Brad Mehldau Duo. Jazz at the Bistro, 3536 Washington Ave., 63103. For more information, call314-289-4030 or visit www.jazzstl.org.

Apr. 11 – 14, Jazz St. Louis and Wells Fargo Advisors present Russell Malone & The Cyrus Chestnut Trio Jazz at the Bistro, 3536 Washington Ave., 63103. For more information, call314289-4030 or visit www.jazzstl.org.

Sun., Apr. 29, 7:30 p.m., Van Halen with special guests Kool & TheGang. Scottrade Center, 1401 Clark Ave., 63103. For more information, call (314) 622-5435.

Sun., Apr. 29, 3 p.m., The Bach Society Chorus , Ladue Chapel Presbyterian Church, 9450 Clayton Rd. St. Louis, MO 63124. For more information, visit www.bachsociety.org or call 314-652-BACH.

Sun., May 13, 3 p.m., The Mildred Thimes Foundation forPancreatic Cancer presents The 16th Annual Denise Thimes & Friends Special Mother’s Day Concert: Honoring OurMothers –“The Givers of Life.” Sheldon Concert Hall, 3648 Washington Blvd., 63108. For more information, call (314) 773-0337.

local gigs

Wed., Apr. 11, 6 p.m., Lexus Len’s “HAPPYHOUR” featuring: Cheryl Brown, Jeremiah Allen, Jeff Taylor

& Gerald Warren, Live Band, 2 for 1 Drinks, Free Food, No Cover Charge The Loft, 3112 Olive.

Sundays, 7 p.m., StarCity recording artist FRED WALKER performs his SAXYJAZZ music show every Sunday at: “JAZZ ON BROADWAY” 554 East Broadway, Alton, Il. 62002. Call 618-465-5299 for more information and directions.

special events

Fri., Apr. 6, 5 p.m., East St. Louis Sr. High Class of 1981 Happy Hour, Club Illusion, 526 East Broadway, East St. Louis, IL.

April 6th & Apr. 7th, The Crocodile Lounge will become the official matchmaker, liaison, or relationship workshop for the Singles of St. Louis. Single Ladies and Gentleman of professions from all walks of life come out and mingle, drink, socialize, and entertain.

Sat., Apr. 7, 8 p.m., 13 Black Katz presents “Love after War”, attendance prizes include a fur jacket ($2500.00), diamond earrings & necklace set ($1500.00) 2 tickets to Kevin Hart Concert, dinner & limo ride and event features Jo Lena Johnson author of Love and War: A Strategic Planning on Relationships, Ritz Carlton in Clayton. For more information, visit www.13Blackkatz.com

Sun., Apr. 8, 10 a.m., Easter Sunday Brunch. Coronado Ballroom, 3701 Lindell Blvd., 63108. For more information, call (314) 367-4848.

Thur., Apr. 12, Voices For Children presents Be the Difference: ABenefit forthe Voices forChildren, special guest Judge Glenda Hatchett Windows Off Washington, 701

CALENDAR

N. 15th St., 63103. For more information, call (314) 5522454.

Fri., Apr. 13 – Sat., Apr. 14, St. Louis Humanities Festival: ASense of Place, The Missouri Humanities Council is very pleased to be a partner with the University of Missouri-St. Louis, Washington University in St. Louis, Webster University, and Cinema St. Louis in presenting the first annual St. Louis Humanities Festival, a series of complimentary public programs that will being diverse audiences in contact with scholars, authors, filmmakers and other experts and practitioners in the humanities. For more information, visit www.cinemastlouis.org.

Sat., Apr. 14, 9 a.m., Grand Opening Celebration forthe Pulaski Bank Hazelwood location, Activities include a BBQ lunch, prize drawings, kid’s games, face painting, and music entertainment. Pulaski Bank, 8008 North Lindbergh Blvd., in Hazelwood, MO.

Sat., Apr. 14, 6 p.m., Saint Louis University School of Law Black Law Student’s Association presents Derby Stakes Casino Night. Food, Open Bar, Prizes, Derby and Casino Games. Tickets $45.

SLU Allied Health Multipurpose Room, Doisy Hall, 3437 Caroline Mall, 63104.

Sat., Apr. 14, 6:30 p.m., SouthSide Gala Dinnerand Auction. Live and silent auctions, Gourmet three course dinner, Premium open bar, Jive and Wail Dueling Piano Performance, Complimentary Valet Parking. Chase Park Plaza, 212 N. Kingshighway Blvd., 63110.

Sun., Apr. 15, 6 p.m., S.L.I.M. presents the Loosecannon Celebrity Basketball Game featuring Diggy Simmons, Pooch Hall and more. Chaifetz Arena, 1 S. Compton Ave., 63103. For more information, visit www.metrotix.com.

Apr. 20 – 22, STL– ATL Hoops Getaway. Check out the Atlanta Hawks as they face the Boston Celtics and New York Knicks. Also shop, party and hit the clubs. For more information, call (314) 7797655 or (314) 229-5267.

Sat., Apr. 21, 11 a.m., 3rd Annual Drumline Showdown. Seven nationally renowned HBCU marching percussion ensembles will battle it out for $10,000 for their school’s percussion program. Chaifetz Arena, 1 S. Compton

S.L.I.M. presents the Loosecannon Celebrity Basketball Game featuring Diggy Simmons, Pooch Hall and more.Chaifetz Arena.For additional details,see SPECIAL EVENTS.

Ave., 63103.

Sat., April 21, 2012 - The Beaumont Alumni Class of ‘72 will be sponsoring a trip to Crown Valley Winery for information please contact Deborah Davis, 314-453-9055, davisdc1@hotmail.com Priscilla Stith 314-3634526,psart24@sbcglobal.net or call Linda Williams @314867-2283.

Sat., Apr. 21, 6 p.m., 2nd Annual Trivia Night for Neighborhood Houses! St. Louis Gateway Classic Sports Foundation, 2012 Dr. Martin Luther King Drive, 63106 For more information, visit http://www.neighborhoodhouses.org.

Sat., Apr. 21, 6 p.m., The Alpha Zeta Chapterof Iota Phi Lambda Sorority is hosting the 2nd Annual Business Month Awards Dinner. Norwood Hills Country Club, One Norwood Hills Country Club Dr., 63121. For more information, visit www.iotastlouis.org.

Sat., Apr. 21, 7 p.m., MHT Election 2012: Third Annual Trivia Night. Most Holy Trinity Catholic School, 3519 N. 14th St., 63107. For more information, call (314) 2419165.

Fri., Apr. 27, 8 p.m., 2 Divas presents The Wild Wild West Dance. The Machinists Hall, Room 1C, 12365 St. Charles Rock Rd., 63044.

Sat., Apr. 28, 6 p.m., Black Women Rock Gala hosted by Vivica A. Fox with a special performance by Chingy. PreMother’s Day Black tie Gala. During the event there will be a short award ceremony to honor some of the hard working Black Women in St. Louis. There will be a mini hair show and fashion show to showcase local talent. St. Louis Lights on Broadway, 8350 N. Broadway, 63147.

Sat., May 19, 4th Annual Anthony Smith Memorial 3on-3 Basketball Tournament. For ages: 3rd-4th grade boys/girls – 40+ men/women. Tournament benefits: leukemia lymphoma society, Anthony Smith scholarship fund, & Hope Unlimited. Concordia Luther Church Kirkwood, 505

S. Kirkwood Rd., 63122.

Sat., May 19, 8 a.m., Shalom Church City of Peace presents The Benjamin Price Benefit Golf Classic. Eagle Springs Golf Course,2575 Redman Rd., 63136. Sat., May 5, 8 a.m., 11th Annual SumnerHigh School Alumni Association’s Scholarship GolfScramble and Social. The Golf Club of Florissant,50 Country Club Ln., 63033. For more information, call (314) 799-6122 or (314) 365-7102.

Through May 31, National Archives at St. Louis presents “Documented Rights.” Exhibition showcasing milestone documents drawn from National Archives holdings to illustrate this nation’s continuing process of defining human and civil rights. For more information, call (314) 8019313.

The Institute forthe Advancement of Jazz Study & Performance presents CWAH Jazz Meets Hip-Hop Classes Saturdays at 10 a.m., through May 12. For more information, call (314) 2897523 or visit www.cwah.org Berkeley Class of 1982 is celebrating its 30 year class reunion August 17-19, 2012 and is seeking classmates to attend the reunion and reunion planning meetings. For more information about the reunion please call Anthony Wilder 314-479-0110, Portland (Matthews) Whitlock 314-7669108, or Tammy Davis 314302-1339.

literary

Apr. 7, 7 p.m., The St. Louis County Library Foundation’s Reading Garden Event Series is pleased to present St. Louis’ most popularyoung adult authorRidley Pearson for a discussion and signing of the latest installment in his popular series “Kingdom Keepers V: Shell Game, ” St. Louis County Library Headquarters, 1640 S. Lindbergh Blvd. Thurs., Apr. 26, 7 p.m., The St. Louis County Library Foundation’s ‘Buzz’Westfall Favorite AuthorSeries is pleased to present journalist and presidential historian Nancy Gibbs for a discussion and signing of her new book “The Presidents Club: Inside the World’s Most Exclusive Fraternity.” St. Louis County Library Headquarters (1640 S. Lindbergh Blvd.) The program is free and open to the public. Books will be available for purchase at the event from Pudd’nHead Books. For more information, call 314-994-3300 or visit www.slcl.org.

Apr. 5 – October27, In the Still Epiphany, Approximately 50 works of art from Emily and Joseph Pulitzer Jr.’s Collection, Opening reception 5 p.m. April 5, The Pulitzer Foundation for the Arts (in Grand Center) 3716 Washington Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63108

Fri., May 4, 5 p.m., Sole SurvivorArt Gallery presents Art AfterFive: “Looking into the Supernatural NewFresco Images by Kevin Myers. 125 E. Main St., Belleville, IL. 62220. For more information, visit www.solesurvivorartgallery. com.

10th Street Gallery presents the opening reception for Lance Omar Thurman’s upcoming photography exhibit “Nostalgia,” 10th Street Gallery, 419 N. 10th Street, St. Louis, MO 63101. Visit www.10thstreetgallery.com

THE GALLERYof the University City Public Library is seeking applicants forjuried one-month shows forthe 31st season. Ashort resume of artistic background, 12 images of recent work on a CD, and a list with dimensions and medium of each piece are required. Send or bring entries to: THE GALLERY, University City Public Library, 6701 Delmar Blvd., University City, MO 63130 by Monday, April 30. For further information, call Lexine Pranschke at 314.727.3150 or email lexine@ucpl.lib.mo.us.

comedy

Apr. 13, 8 p.m., Kevin Hart: Laugh at My Pain, Scottrade Center. For more information, visit www.ticketmaster.com

Sat., May 12, 8 p.m., Royal Comedy Tour feat. Sommore, Bruce Bruce, Mark Curry and more. Chaifetz Arena, 1 S. Compton Ave., 63103. For more information, visit www.metrotix.com.

theatre

Through Apr. 8, The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents The Comedy of Errors. Mistaken identities, outlandish disguises and musical merriment take two sets of twins on a raucous journey through the streets of New Orleans in a one of Shakespeare’s cleverest comedies. 130 Edgar Rd., 63119. Fore more information, call (314) 968-4925 or visit www.repstl.org.

Through Apr. 8, Bring It On: The Musical. Set against the world of competitive cheerleading, this powerhouse new show hilariously proves that winning isn’t everything when it means losing something - or someone - you really care about. Fabulous Fox Theatre, 527 N. Grand Blvd., 63103. For more information, visit www.metrotix.com.

Apr. 11 – May 13, The Black

Rep presents Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom. In a 1927 recording studio, legendary blues singer, Ma Rainey, finally shows up to record her new album, despite battling musicians and tight-fisted producers. Hilarious and heartbreaking. Grandel Theatre, 3610 Grandel Sq., 63108. For more information, visit www.metrotix.com.

Through April 14, Shakespeare Festival St. Louis Shake 38 Performer Registration. Shakespeare Festival St. Louis, 5715 Elizabeth Ave., 63110. For more information, call 314/531-9800, ext. 113.

lectures

Sat., Apr. 21, 9 a.m., AARP presents On the Road to Retirement. Tower Grove Manor, 2710 S. Grand Blvd., 63118. For more information, call (877) 877-1995 ext. 1018.

Sat., Apr. 28, Children’s Dining Manners Class. Learn informal and formal table settings, proper use of utensils, proper table manners, all while dining on a delicious meal. Ages 7-13.LaBonne Bouchee’Restaurant, 12344 Olive Blvd, 63141. For more information, call (314) 3742804.

Missouri History Museum presents The Civil Warin Missouri. Border state, slave state or Southern state, we may not agree on the label, but we can agree on the problem. It is too late to change the past, but it is the right time to learn from it and make a better future. For more information, visit www.mohistory.org.

health

Apr. 7, Coleman Wright Health Ministry sponsors: SeniorDay orNot So Senior Day, presentations include 10 signs of Alzheimer’s, Congestive Heart Failure, Healthy Eating and Seated Exercises, Coleman Wright CME Church, 9777 Halls Ferry Road, Jennings, MO 63136.

Thur., Apr. 12, 7 p.m., Heart & Vascular: Caring forYour Arteries and Veins. Holiday Inn South County Center, 6921 S. Lindbergh, 63125. For more

information, call (314) 8673627 or visit www.barnesjewish.org.

Sat., Apr. 14, 10 a.m., St. Louis Diabetes Coalition presents Touring the Grocery Store as Person with Diabetes. Richmond Heights Schnucks, 6600 Clayton Rd., 63117.

Through April 14, 7 p.m., Couples Massage, Saturdays, InPower Institute, 5400 Nottingham Ave., 63109. For more information, visit www.inpowerinstitute.com.

Wed., Apr. 11, 4 p.m., The Future of Healthcare feat. Louis W. Sullivan, MD, Former Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services. Washington University School of Medicine, 320 S. Euclid Ave., 63110.

Sat., Apr. 14, 10 a.m., St. Louis Diabetes Coalition presents Touring the Grocery Store as Person with Diabetes. Richmond Heights Schnucks, 6600 Clayton Rd., 63117.

Tue., Apr. 17, 8:30 a.m., Our Community, OurHealth presents Improving Health Outcomes in St. Louis: Emerging Research and Strategiesto Address Health Disparities. Missouri History Museum, 5700 Lindell Blvd.,

Black Women Rock Gala hosted by Vivica A. Fox with a special performance by Chingy. See SPECIAL EVENTS for more information.

Annual Healthy Baby Forum, Al Chappelle Community Center, 1401 LaSalle, St. Louis, MO 63104

Sat., May 5, 9 a.m., 8th

Annual Walk Run ‘n Roll. Tremayne Shelter, Creve Coeur Park, 11400 Olde Cabin Rd., 63141. For more information, visit www.WalkRunNRoll.org.

Sat., May 5, 11 a.m., The St. Louis American Foundation presents the 12th Annual Salute to Excellence in Health Care Awards Luncheon. Frontenac Hilton, 1335 S. Lindbergh Blvd., 63131. For more information, call (314) 533-8000 or visit www.stlamerican.com.

spiritual

63112. For more information, visit http://ourcommunityourhealth.org.

Tue., Apr. 17, 7 p.m., Urology: You’re Not Alone— Understanding and Treating Sexual Dysfunction. West County Family YMCA, 16464 Burkhardt Pl., 63017.

Sat., Apr. 21, 11 a.m., Health and Dental Care forKids Open House. Open House to educate our community about the health services available at our facility. Other community partners will also be on hand to talk about their agencies and programs. 4055 Lindell Blvd., 63108.

Sat., Apr. 28, 8 p.m.,The Alzheimer’s Association Healthy Brain Workshop, Delta Fortitude Foundation, 3858 Washington Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63108. This program is free but registration is required and seating is limited. Please register by April 25, at www.alz.org/stl or 800.272.3900.

Sat., Apr. 28, 9 a.m., 11th

Apr. 6, 7 p.m., The Resurrection Musical Production of “Jesus..No Weapons Formed Against Him Shall Prosper,” Written and directed by La’Matra Johnson, Washington Tabernacle M.B. Church, 3200 Washington Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63103. For more information, call (314) 533-5374.

Fri., Apr. 6, 7 p.m., The Bethesda Temple Voices presents the 21st Pre-Easter Concert: Celebrating Jesus! Rejoicing in Survival with special guest stars The Nevels Sisters. Bethesda Temple Church of the Apostolic Faith, Inc., 5401 Bishop J. A. Johnson Ln., 63121. For more information, call (314) 3825401.

Sun., Apr. 8, 10:30 a.m., Resurrection Sunday Service. The Tabernacle, 2900 N. Prairie Ave., 63107. For more information, visit www.thetab-stl.org.

May 5 – 6, The St Paul Missionary Baptist Church of Alton invites you to ‘Introduction to the Community & Birthday Celebration’of PastorA.D. Siddell. St Paul M.B. Church,

801 Gold St. Alton, Illinois 62002. For more information, call (618) 462-8241.

Sat., May 19, 4:30 p.m., Stayafloat Foundation presents Gospel Splash Fundraising Concert. Christ Our Redeemer A.M.E. Church, 13820 Old Jamestown Rd., 63033.

Saturdays, Apr. 14—Jun. 2, 10 a.m. New Sunny Mount Missionary Baptist Church Chancel Choir presents Stepping in the Name of Jesus—5th Annual Gospel Step Class. New Sunny Mount Missionary Baptist ChurchHunter’s Hall, 4638 West Florissant Avenue, 63115. For more information, call (314) 389-4544.

April 15, 2012, Jamison Memorial CME Women’s Day Celebration, 10:30 A.M. Worship Service- Minister Linda Wreen, 12 Noon “Women’s Day Tea Party” 3:00 P.M. “Rev. Claudine Murphy and St. Luke AME Church Family, Jamison Memorial CME, 609 Leffingwell Ave. 63103.

Fri., Apr. 6, Undefeated opens in theatres nationwide Fri., Apr. 13, Think Like A Man starring Kevin Hart, Bow Wow, Megan Good and more opens in theatres nationwide.

Fri., Apr. 20, Marley opens in theatres nationwide.

Fri., Apr. 13, 7: 30 p.m., Missouri History Museum “ANight to Remember”— The 1958 Movie. Join us for an Edwardian Champagne Reception with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres at Bixby’s Restaurant in the museum. View an exhibit of Titanicrelated artifacts. Lindell and DeBaliviere in Forest Park. For more information call 314746-4599 or visit www.mohistory.org.

Continued from C1

Partnerships Director for the St. Louis Art Museum says the Art Museum was happy to collaborate with Salon 53 in hosting the Friends of African American Collectors Circle. The event was well attended and Manuel’s collection well received. A few of the art aficionados on the scene included Adelia Castro Parker, Dorothy North John and Marilyn Robinson, LaWanda Bryant, Joseph LaMarque, Sharon and Lloyd Ferrell Cynthia T. Jackson, Devin Dixon, Kuumba, David Griffin, Doretha Washington, Ida G. Woolfolk, Dominique Scott, Rene Dimanche Jr. and Mary A. Polk Clarence and Alison Nash Dula recently returned from a family vacation on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. Sons Will Homer and Grandpapa Dr. Homer Nash Sr. had a great time.

ROOTS

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This was much more serious than some “dog ate my movie treatment” thing.

“That year was choked with turmoil and heartbreak,” she said.

“Nearly a year after the write-a-book decision, my Mama, who was my everything, lost her battle with a vicious illness. Within the same six- week period, I lost my 15-year-old pet-child who had grown up with my daughter – and my job.”

Those experiences were bitter. The creativity, however, was sweet.

“The sadness was so allencompassing that sometimes I just wanted to disappear or evaporate,” she said. “But something inside literally

While there they visited the Jazz Corner, a popular jazz supper club similar to our Jazz at the Bistro. Will was able to “sit in” with Bob Mastellar’s quartet and play the vibes. Alison says the crows loved him. Check Will out on YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=N9q8AtBvHqM

Cavalia’s St. Louis run has been extended through April 16. This exciting magical event has been receiving rave reviews from St. Louis horse lovers who’ve attended. Cavalia’s founder and artistic director Norman Latourelle is overwhelmed by St. Louis’ response to his “lavish orchestration of

n The Saint Louis Art Museum

hosted a private reception honoring internationally renowned artist Manuel Hughes, a former St. Louisian.

multimedia, equestrian and performing arts.” Cavalia’s big tents are located downtown adjacent to Busch stadium. Go to www.cavalia.net or call 1.866.999.8111 for ticket information.

Happy Birthday Mom! Billie Jean Randolph – April 1, 2012. Have a great week! Dana Grace: dgrandolph@ live.com

FILM

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pushed me to start Bittersweet the novel version and somehow finish it.”

Based on real stories shared with Banks by her mother and aunt over the years, Bittersweet chronicles the fiercely self-determined, ahead-of-her-time black heroine Ellie Coursey, set against the backdrop of America’s history of racial hate from 1919 Louisiana through the 1965 Watts riots. From 1919 when a deeperhued playmate declares, “My Mama say you ain’t nothin’ but a whole lotta yellow gon’ to waste,” to 1965 when Ellie is brutalized by her own people in the Watts Riots, Bittersweet explores the effects of racism from many angles.

“Sheila Banks’ moving Bittersweet skillfully weaves fiction with fact, creating a rich, multi-dimensional story that resonates as powerfully

with us today as it did in Ellie’s day,” said Lyah Beth LeFlore, another St. Louis native and bestselling author of Wildflowers and Last Night A DJ Saved My Life.

Bittersweet is a great American story that is uniquely Ellie’s, but belongs to all of us. Sheila Banks delivers her determined, emotional journey as a bending blues note in a minor key that culminates in a major triumph at the top of the scale!” says actor/activist Alfre Woodard.

“What Alex Haley did for us with Roots almost four decades ago, Sheila Banks does for us today with Bittersweet – a powerful, multi-generational, family epic about discovering your identity and what it means to be fully human in a society suffering from a serious case of color-bias,” says Brian Bird, writer-producer (Not

Easily Broken, Touched By An Angel, Bopha!)

Banks sees the story ultimately as inspirational.

“In the story, Ellie is a warrior woman. Whenever she was knocked down, she came back swinging. Most of us are warrior women (and men), I think; even if we don’t know it,” she said.

“The important thing is to know that the good is always there for us. But we have to fight for it – like Ellie did. We human beings are given a choice. We can – one day at a time – choose to believe in ourselves, persevere and try again and again. As many times as it takes to get to the light. No matter who or what is trying to stop you. My motto: Do it anyway and any way.” For more information, visit www.bittersweetbysheilabanks. com

Courtney is a wealthy white business owner, but this film is far from a “Great White Hope” saga. Courtney can relate to them in an intimate way because Courtney’s own father walked out of his life when he was four years old. “I used to wonder what was wrong with me that made him leave, while other dads stuck around,” Courtney said. He also relives the memory of walking off the football field alone after delivering the winning touchdown for his middle school team while his teammates’ fathers carried their gear and patted them on the heads. He knows the tarnish that can be forever imprinted on a child when their father checks out. His experience was the driving force behind his pouring his heart into the team, and he hopes doing so inspires them to value themselves, each other and the generation

n As Courtney and his team press forward, they quickly realize that the obstacles in their way reach beyond the football field.

coming behind them. Through working together towards the common goal of building a football team that Tennessee takes seriously, they manage to unite a school, families and a community. In addition to O.C. Brown, Lindsay and Martin were offered compelling illustrations of triumph and growth through the hearts of the entire team. They face personal struggles, speed bumps and land mines that could easily blindside a lesser group. The same can be said for the film itself. Undefeated went from obscure film to Academy Award winner (Best Documentary, 2011) based on the resounding belief and subsequent support in what the film represents. When it is all said and done, the film’s title takes on an entirely different implication. The team’s statistics are an afterthought in the wake of developing the heart, actions and unbeatable spirit of a champion. Undefeated opens in St. Louis on Friday, April 6. The film is rated PG-13 with a running time of 113 minutes.

FIT

Continued from C1

Vixen and Black-light Zumba.

First-time, novice and professional-level women are all welcome to join in the classes at The Dollhouse. There is a registered nutritionist on staff to help determined Dolls develop a healthier diet and lifestyle. The staff boasts more than seven women with certifications in various fitness regimens and workout specialties.

The owners often host parties and special events to introduce would-be Dolls to the Dollhouse. The owners also believe in supporting fellow small-business owners and accordingly host frequent fairs and workshops to introduce their clients to the best products, fashions and services available in St. Louis. From a Sexy Super Bowl party to private birthday and bachelorette parties, The Dollhouse Studios has something for everyone.

Women of all ages can be seen working out at the Dollhouse Studios. Co-owner Lisa Potts says that was one of the motivating factors for opening a fitness studio. Potts wanted to create a place where all women would feel welcome and enjoy themselves.

Although most women enter with a little trepidation about their own pole potential, the instructors teach women how to connect to their own beauty, strength and power and new Dolls quickly lose their reservations and let the music and fun take over. In the pole room you can see sisters of all sizes and from all backgrounds trying their turn at a sexy spin. During the Video Vixen class, participants are encouraged to grab a feather boa, hat or some of the flirty props to spice up their workout and performance. The founders and owners of the Dollhouse Studios are all smart, savvy businesswomen with degrees, careers and fitness certifications. Lashell Blissit is a certified pole instructor and one of the pioneers of the pole movement in the St. Louis area. Taliya King is also a certified pole instructor with a long dance and fitness background.

Potts is the spark that ignited King and Blissit. Potts said after working out with King and Blissit at the pole class, she asked Blissit if she ever thought about opening her own studio. When Blissit replied no, Potts went home and began creating and fine tuning a business plan. King quickly bought in. Being an accomplished business woman and entrepreneur, she too jumped into high-gear, working out details and prospecting for locations. After a lot of hard work, prayer and execution, the ladies launched the Dollhouse Studios and their classes have been filling up ever since. Business has been propelled by word-of-mouth and the owners’ use of digital technology and social media. Through their hard work, these three beautiful, passionate business women have started countless other women on their way to realizing or regaining their own dreams.

To find out more about the Dollhouse Studios, visit www. thedollhousestudios.com, or call 314-241-DOLL (3655)

Scientifically Speaking

The YES Program’s Impact

Toni Stovall Senior, North Technical High School

The YES Program has really made a big impact on my life. It has offered me so many different opportunities! Beyond just the opportunities, it’s really like another home to me. I am a teen parent and when I found I was expecting my 2nd year in the program I was afraid. I thought everyone was going to judge me when I start showing at work. No not at all! They continued to think highly of me and let me know that it wasn’t the end of the world. They gave me some really good resources incase I ever needed them and some offered to be there for me if I ever needed anything. That really encouraged me to keep going and not give up. Even now, my supervisors and other co-workers always ask about my child. Wanting to know how is the baby and the new accomplishments. They love when the baby visits and most hate if they miss the visit.

They have us take surveys to see what kind of way to tend to learn best and how we can work with other people that are the same or different learners. From the surveys and the feedback they gave me, It helped me learn more about myself. .

The YES Program has built a great foundation in my life and led me in the right direction.

I couldn’t imagine my life if I was never a YES teen. I can’t say thank you enough to the people who support and help keep this program running. This program introduced me to STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) careers and helped prepare me for them.

Toni Stovall

The YES program is more than a job to me. Its place where I know they care about my future and work hard on making it better.

They teach us life skills from how to communicate, shake a hand, write a letter, work with people, and what employers are looking for. They also help with our school life, they offer tutoring, college prep, help on resumes, FAFSA, scholarships and grants. The YES Program offers so much, and has helped me heal through hard times.

By Melanie Adams

Talking about poverty

Lecture on ‘The Other America’ at History Museum April 18

This year marks the 50th anniversary of The Other America by St. Louisan Michael Harrington. The groundbreaking book exposed America’s poverty problems and paved the way for social reform. In 2010, St. Louis had a poverty rate of almost 25 percent. The poverty rate is defined as an income of $22,350 for a family of four. Poverty is still an issue of major concern in America.

The History Museum has invited professor Maurice Isserman, author of a biography of Michael Harrington, to give a lecture on Wednesday, April 18 at 7 p.m. on this influential study of poverty and its continuing legacy.

I had the opportunity to speak with Dr. Isserman about this important anniversary and his hopes for continuing the dialogue on poverty in America.

Though it was published in 1962, the themes in The Other America are just as relevant today. Can you talk about these themes and how you see them continuing decades later?

Michael Harrington’s book made two points that took many of his readers in 1962 by surprise. The first was the extent of poverty – some 40 million Americans falling below the poverty line. The second was the tenacity of poverty – it wasn’t true, as many assumed that “a rising tide would lift all ships.” His conclusion was that concerted federal action was necessary – a “war on poverty” as he described it in his book.

In the first chapter, Harrington talks the invisibility of the poor on the American landscape in the 1960s. Do you think this is still the case?

Recently released US census data shows that there are as many poor Americans today in absolute numbers as there were in 1962 –although due to population growth over the past half century they account for a smaller percentage of the American population. Still, over 40 million Americans, many of them young families with children, fall below the poverty level, and tens of millions more are one lay-off or one medical emergency away from being impoverished. I think the difference between then and now is that poverty is no longer invisible – Americans aren’t shocked to discover that so many are poor. But they also have come to believe that society and especially government can do nothing that will lessen poverty. There is a great deal more fatalism, and social indifference, than was true a half century ago.

The Other America is credited with helping to shape the 1960s war on poverty. How did this book help? Do you see the reissuing of the book as another opportunity to take a look at poverty in America?

The Other America directly sparked the war on poverty and also helped shape its main

This year marks the 50th anniversary of The Other America by St. Louisan Michael Harrington, a groundbreaking book that exposed America’s poverty problems and paved the way for social reform.

strategy, which was to attack what Harrington called “the culture of poverty.” Thus the emphasis of the war on poverty was on programs like Head Start, and community action agencies – rather than, ironically, the solution that Harrington preferred, a massive federal jobs program. Harrington himself stopped using the term “culture of poverty” in subsequent books about poverty, fearing, I think, it would be misinterpreted. The value of The Other America fifty years later is its moral clarity – Harrington felt that Americans should be angered and ashamed to live in a society where so many of their fellow Americans were suffering both the privations and the indignity of poverty. What do you hope people will take from your lecture on the legacy of The Other America? That there was a time, not so long ago, when Americans were not afraid to address difficult social issues and tackle them, and that individuals, like St. Louis native Michael Harrington, could make a difference in changing public perceptions about those social issues.

The Legacy of Michael Harrington’s The Other America on its 50th Anniversary

Wednesday, April 18, 2012, 7 p.m. AT&T Foundation Multipurpose Room

~ CELEBRATIONS ~

Sorority celebrates 75 years

Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc., Alpha Zeta ChapterCelebrates its 75th Anniversary!

Pictured: Joyce Hicks, Ophelia Troupe, Bonita Cornute, Shirley Cabb, Magdalene Moore, Elaine Dubose, Theresa Faith Cummings, Marilyn Green, Betty Preston, Roberzene Price, Jane Ward, Monica Stewart, Ed.D., and Lois Ingrum.

Seated: Edna Inez Nicholas, Lena Rush, Alicia Harris, Ashanta Houston, Judy Ferguson Shaw, Phyllis Shumate,

National President, Andrea W. Alexander, Doris A. Graham, Ph.D., Linda Logan, Vanetta Cobbs, and Lula Hall.

Birthdays

April 7

Happy 4th

More Birthdays:

Diamond Williams — April 2

Cornell Bond — April 2

Brenda Poppers — April 6

Pageant winner

Congratulations Jasmine R. Tallie from Northwest Missouri State University for winning the Phi Beta Sigma Sweet Dream Pageant.She will represent the Regional division here in St. Louis later this month.

Pictured: Gabrielle Ray, Jasmine R. Tallie and Aminah Williams

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:

Beaumont of class of 1967 will have its 45th class reunion on Saturday, June 9, 2012 at the Sheraton Westport Hotel. Cost is $100 per person. On Friday, June 8th, there will be a meet and greet and on Sunday, June 10 worship service and a brunch, locations to be determined. For

you!

questions/info on these events our e-mail address is beaumontclassof67@sbcglobal.net.

Beaumont High School Class of 1977 is looking for all classmates interested in celebrating our 35th year reunion. We are calling upon all classmates to come celebrate this occasion. Your contact information is needed as soon as possible. Please contact Doris J. HarrisBarge (djbarge1@gmail.com) 314-868-7182 or Lawrence Fingers (lawrencefingers@sbcglobal.net) or you can contact us on Facebook as the Beaumont Class of 77 Alumni.

Berkeley Class of 1982 is celebrating its 30 year class reunion August 17-19, 2012 and is seeking classmates to

Auyia Powell — April 8

attend the reunion and reunion planning meetings. For more information about the reunion please call Anthony Wilder 314-479-0110, Portland (Matthews) Whitlock 314-7669108, or Tammy Davis 314302-1339.

FormerForest Park Community College Men’s and Women’s Basketball Players coached by Bob Nelson, will host the Bob “ Mad Dog” Nelson Men’s Basketball Player’s Reunion on Saturday, March 24, 2012 from 1-4 pm. For more information contact Glenn Marshall 314-422-4090, Randy Reed 314-355-3670, Mark Beeks 314-406-2239 or Brian “Mo” Moore 314-591-0230.

Hadley Tech Classes of 19621963 are preparing for our 50th reunion in October of 2012. If you are interested in participating, your contact information is needed as soon as possible. Please call Virdell Stennis at 314-773-8177, Hellon Jefferson at 314-3073681 (jeffersonhellon@yahoo.com), or Wilhelmina Baker at 314588-0779/314-630-9647.

McCluerNorth Class of 1992 is looking to celebrate its 20year reunion. We are in the process of planning a dinner/dance. Your contact information is needed ASAP. Go to the web-site at mccluernorth1992.com

O’Fallon Technical High

School Class of 1963 is planning its 50th reunion for the fall of 2013.If you are interested in participating, your contact information is needed as soon as possible.Please contactJustine Crow at (314) 838-2010 or jcrowsnest@aol.com.

Soldan class of 1964 planning committee is looking for members of our January & June class.We are planning our 48th reunion the weekend of August 10,2012. If you know someone from our class please ask them to call John Bennett at (314) 503-3541, email lamplitr45@aol.com or DeOnne Hudson 1-763-374-3287 or e-mail deonne1024@comcast.net.

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

Give the President a break

Remark at Trayvon Martin rally inspires thoughts on Obama

tragedy happened.”

Adolphus Pruitt

For The St. Louis American

The President also made it clear that he did not want to step on the legal process started by his appointee Attorney General Eric H. Holder Jr. Al Sharpton responded to the President’s remarks with, “It really brings home to people that this kid is not some potential thug in a hoodie.”

I attended a candle light vigil in Tower Grove Park for the teen killed in Florida, Trayvon Martin. Upon my arrival the clouds opened and rained on the parade of folk coming from all directions to join in what was slated to be spiritual gathering. It was one of those unique moments in time watching the throngs of young folk, especially the young African Americans embracing the moment, absorbing the messages, participating respectfully.

But after walking through the mudded fields and standing for hours in the drenching rain and sheepishly contemplating when the program would eventually end, the solace was broken.

A speaker began talking about our President in a demeaning way, criticizing the President’s comment, “If I had a son, he’d look like Trayvon,” claiming that the President’s one-liner was not enough and the President should be during more.

Unfortunately, either the speaker failed to mention in full what our President said.

“I can only imagine what these parents are going through,” President Obama said. “And I think every parent in America should be able to understand why it is absolutely imperative that we investigate every aspect of this, and that everybody pulls together — federal, state and local — to figure out exactly how this

And Florida state Sen. Arthenia Joyner, chair of the state’s legislative black caucus, said the President sent a clear message. “I’m old enough to remember the Ku Klux Klan marching through the street,” Joyner said. “My perception of this man, who is our President, is that he gets it at every level.”

What upset me most about the speaker at Tower Grove Park was that the audience had a significant number of African-American young folk whom a lot of us are trying to engage in the political process with the hopes of re-electing the first African-American President. Instead of bashing the President we all need to be rallying behind his agenda, and especially his proposed budget.

Attacking the unacceptably high unemployment among African Americans, the President’s 2013 Budget would invest in low-income youth and adults with a new $12.5 billion Pathways Back to Work Fund to provide hundreds of thousands of low-income youth and adults with opportunities to work and to achieve needed training in growth industries

The President’s Recovery Act provided approximately 370,000 summer job opportunities through the public workforce investment system to young people in the summers of 2009 and 2010. These programs not only provided young people with their first paycheck, but taught them life-long employment skills.

The President’s budget would also provide grants that primarily fund the preservation, rehabilitation and transformation of HUD-assisted public and privately-owned multifamily housing. The President is proposing a $15 billion series of policies to help connect Americans looking for work in distressed communities with the work needed to re-purpose residential and commercial properties. Project Rebuild will not only create construction jobs for African Americans, but also reduce blight and crime and stabilize housing prices.

The President is also targeting investments to modernize schools serving lowincome students by proposing a $30 billion investment in education infrastructure that will modernize at least 35,000 public schools and community colleges, creating jobs while upgrading our schools.

The President led the charge to extend unemployment insurance for the longterm unemployed. The new extension provides additional reemployment services to the long-term unemployed, which is key for black unemployed workers, of whom nearly half (49.5 percent) have been unemployed for more than 27 weeks.

So instead of bashing the President, give him a break. If Trayvon Martin were alive, I believe he would. Pruitt is President of the St. Louis Chapter of the NAACP.

The President’s proposed Pathways Back to Work Fund will provide states with support for summer job programs for low-income youth in 2012, and year-round employment for economically disadvantaged young adults and youth who are experiencing a rate of unemployment of over 40 percent. I would have told the crowd to support the President’s efforts to increase the $120 million he spent last year to revitalize distressed urban neighborhoods The President’s 2013 Budget provides $150 million for the Choice Neighborhoods Initiative to continue transformative investments in high-poverty neighborhoods where distressed HUD-assisted public and privately owned housing is located.

Guest Columnist

Adolphus Pruitt

Eulogy for Bishop Willie J. Ellis

His ‘impact on this city, region, state will live forever’

By U.S. Rep. Wm. Lacy Clay Eulogist

First, let me offer all praise and glory to God who is always at the center of my life.

We are gathered here today to celebrate the life of a great and good man, Bishop Willie Ellis.

Bishop Ellis was a powerful force for positive change in this community.

As the shepherd of this historic congregation, his inspired leadership raised this faith family to heights that no one could have imagined when he assumed this pulpit in 1964. Back then, New Northside was a small, struggling church. But by his strong hand, and with his exceptionally gifted voice, he was a guiding light to this congregation and this community.

Bishop Ellis was the driving force behind the establishment of this magnificent house of worship, the New Northside child development center and the family life center complex.

Bishop Ellis’ impact on this city, our region and the state of Missouri will live forever.

For my family and I, his passing is a very personal loss. You see bishop Ellis was at my father’s side from the very beginning of his political career. He was part of a generation who stood up and stood out. And they decided to take a stand against injustice. They had the courage to challenge what was wrong in this country.

In St. Louis, when others told Bill Clay that there was no way he could win, Bishop Ellis told him to “Keep on keeping on.”

That led to his election to the St. Louis Board of Aldermen, the creation of the First Congressional District and his eventual election as Missouri’s first African-American congressman. In the St. Louis American my Dad was asked about what made his friend so special and he said this about the Bishop: “He was the kind of minister who believed God’s mission for him was to work both sides of the river Jordan. He used to say one of his missions was to save souls on one side of the river, and another mission was to improve the quality of life on this side of the river. He was always worrying about how to improve life and eliminate racism and even sexism – even back then.”

I think my Dad got it just right. As for me, this is more than just the loss of an extraordinary

leader. Bishop Ellis was also a wonderful friend and mentor whom I turned to many times for guidance, support and spiritual strength.

So as we celebrate his life today, the Bishop has left us with a few questions. Will we follow his example? Will we continue his mission? Will we allow his message of faith, love and fearless advocacy to go silent? I know that will never happen.

Because like all great pastors, Bishop Ellis was much more than just a powerful preacher. He was also a smart farmer. And he planted the good seeds of justice, equality, stronger families, better schools, less hate and more love, all over this community.

So now, it’s up to those of us who remain to nurture that crop with our energy, our strength, our desire to truly make God’s work our own. And brothers and sisters, if we do that Bishop Ellis’ legacy will never die. Because we will protect it, we will preserve it, we

U.S. Rep. Wm. Lacy Clay delivered the eulogy for Bishop Willie J. Ellis during his homegoing services at New Northside M.B. Church.

will honor him with our own commitment to serve and to walk in the ways of the Lord.

So to New Northside’s gracious first lady Beverly Elaine Ellis; to your wonderful children: Pamela, Yolanda and Tyrone; to all your grandchildren and great grandchildren; I promise you this …

We will stand with you during this difficult time with our strength, our prayers and our absolute faith in everlasting life. Because we know that we will see our beloved Bishop again, on the other side of that river.

But until then, we will take up his work, we will continue his mission and we will keep the holy fire from this good man’s life burning brightly in our hearts.

On behalf of my family to yours, may God bless you with strength, comfort and courage. And may Bishop Ellis’ memory always be a great blessing to us all.

Amen.

Sometimes one of the hardest things to internalize about our faith is that worry has no place in God’s kingdom. I’ve been told everything from worry to being unchristian to it actually being a sin. I know at times I still get overly concerned about stuff that I have absolutely no control over… ZERO… Zilch! Be it family, friends, circumstances or whatever, my tendency has been to worry, as if worrying alone can somehow improve the situation.

If I haven’t said this yet, this is all a learning process for me and I’m doing my best to be a good student. Scripture says, “Who of you worrying can add a single hour to his life?”

will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”

Matthew 6:27. As a wannabe good student, via faith I have to recognize that the answer to worry has been given to me and you. I say this because life as we know it will always test your beliefs. Rather than worry, we should rely on the truth as taught by Christ. That truth is these issues have already been dealt with through His sacrifice on the cross. As such, I should trust and not fret.

“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness and all things will be given you as well.” Matthew 6:33. This is particularly eye opening because of the next line.

“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow

Again as a student, I can relate to the problem and I’m trying very hard to grasp the solution. Now while this may seem elementary to you, life constantly gives all of us pause to become anxious about things, people, and events. God, however, through the profession of faith, reminds us that indeed we do have the answer. Each time we are tested, He says remember me. So what I’ve done is to try and create my own recall system, if you will. It goes something like this. “Do not be anxious about anything, but by everything, prayer and petition with thanksgiving present your requests to God.” Philippians 4:6. When I think to remember this, I do it and let it go. I find when I do it enough times, it does become habit forming and this is a habit I can revel in. You see I am one of those hands on kind of students. Don’t tell me. Show me. Let me try. By virtue of biblical demonstration, reinforced by repetition, I think I’m getting the hang of this don’t worry thing. Quit trying to figure my way out of things on my own. That is a recipe for failure and spiritually extremely dangerous. Let God figure into all of my decision making and follow what is revealed

James A. Washington

Photo by Wiley Price

ST. LOUIS AMERICAN

St. Charles Community College graduates nurses

Awarded certificate of achievement in practical nursing

Special to The American

Graduates of the 2012 Practical Nursing program at St. Charles Community College were honored Saturday, March 12, in a pinning ceremony celebrating the culmination of their nursing education.

The pinning is a symbolic welcoming into the profession. At the ceremony, graduates were given the opportunity to dedicate their successes to their friends and family, instructors and classmates. They also recited as a class the Florence Nightingale Pledge.

St. Charles graduates were Katie Brawner, Carrie Hardin, Linda Molitor, Esther Njenga and LaPortcia Thomas.

O’Fallon graduates were Greta Banks, Jennifer Cain, Lisa Carroll, Kristine Hallemeyer and Stacey Le.

St. Peters graduates were Jeannine Williams and Kate Williams. St. Louis graduates were Michaela Kain, Hee Jong

Kim, Stephen Kinyanjui and Hannah Ntaoti. Florissant graduates were LaTonya Fort, Jamie Kassing, Nara LaGrone, Dorota Majczyna and Irene Njogu.

First Lady Michelle Obama will deliver commencement the address at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.

Wentzville graduates were Trish Coleman and Kelly Flanagan.

Other graduates include Virginiah Chege of St. Ann, Tammiell Gates of Maryland Heights, Elena Haefner of Dardenne Prairie, George Mathai of Ballwin, Samantha Owen of Defiance, Gabriela Ramos of Kirkwood, Dara Starr of Hazelwood, Sandy

Tschannen of Weldon Spring and Annabelle Vohsen of Foristell.

Graduates are awarded a certificate of achievement in practical nursing and are eligible to apply for the Practical Nurse Licensing Examination. The Practical Nursing Program at SCC prepares licensed practical nurses to administer safe, patient-centered nursing care in beginning staff nurse roles in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, doctor’s offices and other health care facilities and home settings. For more information about the program, contact Russlyn St. John at 636-922-8287 or visit www.stchas.edu.

First Lady to deliver commencement addresses

This year, First Lady Michelle Obama will deliver commencement addresses at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech), North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (North Carolina A&T), and Oregon State University (OSU).

Mrs. Obama will begin her 2012 commencement addresses at Virginia Tech where she was inspired by the resilience of the student body and community coming together to support each other during difficult times.

The next day, the First Lady will travel to North Carolina to speak at North Carolina A&T, part of the rich legacy of historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) that have been instrumental in educating generations of African Americans.

The President and First Lady both have recognized the important contributions of HBCUs and have delivered commencement addresses to

highlight their successes.

Finally, Mrs. Obama will deliver the commencement address to OSU graduates.

OSU’s student body has been recognized for its efforts to promote healthy communities by organizing large scale food donation drives. OSU researchers also have worked to identify factors that lead to childhood obesity and are developing prevention programs for school districts, par-

ents and health care providers to help improve children’s’ health. Mrs. Obama’s brother, Craig Robinson serves as the school’s head men’s basketball coach.

In 2009, Mrs. Obama spoke at the graduation of University of California Merced’s first full senior class. She also addressed the Washington Math and Science Tech Public Charter High School Graduation in Washington DC.

Graduates of the 2012 Practical Nursing program at St.Charles Community College were honored Saturday, March 12 in a ceremony.

In 2010, Mrs. Obama addressed graduates of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, the George Washington University, and the Anacostia Senior High School. In 2011, Mrs. Obama delivered commencement addresses at the University of Northern Iowa, Spelman College, and Quantico Middle High School. The First Lady also spoke to graduates and families at West Point.

Celebrity Swagger Snap of the Week

Mint edition. I’m going to be honest and admit that I was not expecting to be impressed with the throwbacks of R&B: the group edition that stopped by the Scottrade on Thursday night. Oh, so I was the only one, huh? Of course I was. Anyway, after seeing how Ronny, Ricky, Mike, Ralph and Johnny (Bobby’s name was intentionally omitted) served on stage I was ashamed for even thinking so. As a matter of fact, I’m gonna try to stay positive from this point on in reference to the show because of how the fellas got their grown man boy band on. Let’s see how long it lasts. SWV kicked the show off…and…well LeLe and Taj’s yaki was breathtaking! It was so on point that I couldn’t tell if it was a lace front or a sew-in. Their extensions effort was thrilling to see at a time where weave wearin’ has disintegrated to little more than tracks stuck to scalps with double mint gum. Sadly, at first I thought the captivating hair game of 2/3 of the group (sorry Coko, but you know I’m right) was where the good times were goin’ to end for me. As they aimlessly scooted around to a track machine I was thinking “at least they could have invested in arm choreography lessons.” They sounded good enough, but when they announced they’d try to tackle a Patti classic, my side eye accidently snapped LeLe’s body magic loose. To my surprise, they served it and by the time they closed the show with “Weak,” the crowd was on its feet and most was forgiven. New Edition came out swinging, kicking and shimmying at HELLO. But Bobbay was nowhere to be seen. I knew he was there because he sat off to the side and watched SWV’s entire set while the other NE’s were probably washing up and rehearsing. Four songs in, Bobby eased in with the rest of the lineup to “Hit Me Off.” I must tip my wig to whoever designed this stage show. I mean they deserve some kind of optical illusion award the way they gave Bobby enough breathing room (as he popped in and out of the lineup) to last through the demands of the whole show. I don’t know how he felt as the “special needs” member of the group, but it really worked! He even had a few moments of glory in his classic “bad boy” stance as he allowed some woman and her liquid leggings to be great in a one woman show where she threatened him, the rest of N.E. and even a few audience members with her “assets.” Each of them was allowed to showcase their solo game and aside from some sound woes and some misguided hollering high notes, the entire event was a triumph!

Thank you for noticing. Since I’m in the spirit of giving props, I might as well continue by giving the Liquid Assets crew a round of applause for maintaining amidst the most last minute venue change I’ve ever seen. Most of the time when you trade places within 48 hours, the whole event is a downright fail. But the 4th Annual Notice Me Awards maintained a nice sized crowd – which the Loft also deserves props for the sudden accommodations Sunday night. My kudos have NOTHING to do with the fact that the St. Louis American won this year’s best publication category– even though we are grateful to everyone who voted and to be nominated. I want to give a shout out to all of the other winners, but if I start listing folks I know I’ll leave someone off and outrage will instantly ensue. So if you have a trophy – or were nominated – consider this your personal shout out. Was I the only one who felt sorry for the poor child who thought she won “Queen of Courage” thanks to King Yella being in the April Fool’s Day spirit? I did catch a cackle though.

The dynamic hip-hop soul double duo. Man, raise your hand if you were expecting the masses to show up the way that they did for the Headhunters (i.e. Black Spade and Coultrain) and J Davey Saturday night at Lola. I knew it would be crowded, but folks were lined up almost down to the Hair of the Dog to get up in there. To tell the truth, I started to cop a squat up in the Hookah Lounge and put my ear to the wall so I wouldn’t have to bother maneuvering for a decent standing spot. When you think about it, The Headhunters/J Davey tag team is the perfect combination. Sadly, unforeseeable circumstances forced me to miss Coultrain’s Emancipation Proclamation suit swag soul mixed with Veto’s ridiculous rhyme game, but the Davey duo gave me life more abundantly. I demand a re-play at a venue where there is enough space for me to catch my breath!

Spring Fashion in the City at Peabody. One of my favorite fashion events from last fall is making its way back to the runway just in time for spring! Fashion in the City will be doin’ it big and in the ultra-glam style of the roaring 20’s next Saturday at the Peabody Opera House. They have upgraded in a major way and the black tie event will have some of the city’s finest doctors (literally) donning the styles of the area’s brightest designers. I’ve got my blunt banged bob wig, bright red lip and Shug Avery shimmy gown ready to be among the show stoppers! Last year it was standing room only, and for year two Fashion In The City is shaping up for yet another sell-out crowd. And the curiosity is killing me as I anxiously wait to see how the designers express the footloose and fancy free vibe of the 1920s! I don’t know if there are any tickets left, but you can visit http://fashioninthecitypeabodyoperahouse.eventbrite.com/ or e-mail fmosley48@yahoo.com for additional information.

Love, war and win with the Katz. The 13 Black Katz are back at it with their Love After War event this Saturday at the Ritz Carlton. “Strategic Planning for Love and War” authors JoLena Johnson and Steven Charles Martin will be discussing their book and in true Black Katz fashion there will be some big prize possibilities on the line, including a $2500 fur coat, a $1500 diamond necklace and a priceless sugar daddy. The party starts at 8 p.m. I heart Kevin. Please don’t judge me, but based on my last experience when Kevin Hart came to town, I have some Poise pads on deck for when he returns to St. Louis thanks to the Scottrade next Friday (Apr.13). Laugh at My Pain was all the rage and even managed to reach beyond the urban comedy circuit and touch within the mainstream, so I’m thrilled to see what he has come up with for his latest show. And based on his performance at the celebrity all-star game, the

Michael Bivins of New Edition strikes

Carmen, Mia, and Andrew as they enjoy the mixing of hip-hop living legend Pete Rock @ SYGU’s Speakerboxx Series Friday night @ Lola

Alex Morgan poses with Event Photographer of the year Christopher Hawkins winner and Valentine Mac @ Liquid Assets 4th Annual Notice Me Awards Sunday Night @ The Loft

Rhashad of SYGU designed a shirt to pay homage to Pete Rock as he served on the ones and twos alongside DJ Reminisce Friday night @ Lola

Tanya and Tam enjoy a girls’ night out

Lola

Tracy Mcduffie grins at the chance to get a pic with NE heartthrob Ronnie Devoe after the concert Thursday night @ The Scottrade Center

New Edition’s Bobby Brown had to take a picture with JoJo of Jojo’s Shrimp Shack following the concert Thursday night after serving her an onstage shout out for her skills on the grill

on stage and behind the scenes at The Scottrade Center

posed backstage with staff members of Blueprint

Shrimp Shack while SWV took the crowd on a stroll down memory lane by way of their

Young Ro, Topher Jones Kevin Cunningham Join Alderman Lewis Reed at his Charitable event Friday night @ EXO

Mo Spoon did it again with another successful Eye Candy party and guests like the beautiful Victor tiwns of ‘The Bad Girls Club’ and Eye Candy Model Erica was just a few who packed the house

Camille of Creations by Camille with Foxy 95.5’s own Sparkl West and Chaz Saunders as the station celebrated its b-day in a special way thanks to the sounds of SWV and New Edition @ Scottrade Center

Photos by Lawrence Bryant

Finding the right eating method formaintaining a healthy weight

By Sandra Jordan

Of The St.Louis American

After losing 116 pounds, Terri Pruitt of St. Louis gives herself a six-pound leeway to maintain a healthy weight.

“I stay between 168 and 172 of my

goal range,” Pruitt said. Her goal weight is 166.6 pounds.

Over the years, the middle school history and geography teacher has tried several weight loss programs and even some fad diets (remember the cabbage soup diet?) without lasting success. The eating

program that helped her commit to sustained weight control is called Medifast.

“The doctor wanted me to lose weight in 2010, and I hadn’t,” Pruitt said. She was weighing 291 lbs. at the time and she said her blood pressure was “sky high.” After it took her six months to

lose nine pounds on her own, Pruitt relented and was ready to make a real change before her 50th birthday last December. Not wanting to wait until the begin-

Terri Pruitt,left,before losing 116 pounds and,right,after her her dramatic weight loss.

Photo by Wiley Price

HEALTH BRIEFS

New EKG technology helps St. Louis firefighters treat heart attack patients faster

New technology purchased by several local is allowing the St. Louis City Fire Department to better treat heart attack patients in the area.

The use of new 12-lead EKGs on all City Fire Advanced Life Support (ALS) Units allows emergency medical personnel to send critical information to hospital emergency departments in advance of arrival. When a patient complains of chest pain, information from the EKGs helps hospitals like Barnes-Jewish Hospital activate their catheterization lab team from the field rather than when a patient arrives through the door. This can get a patient a possibly lifesaving cardiac catheterization procedure up to 20 minutes faster.

Information from the EKG is used to measure heartbeat rate, position of the heart’s chambers and the presence of heart damage.

“The City Fire Department’s use of these leads helps us save lives and helps us prevent any loss of information because we are getting official 12-lead data from the scene,” says Nelda Martin, RN, clinical nurse specialist at the Washington University and Barnes-Jewish Heart & Vascular Center.

One patient thankful for the technology is Averil Taylor of St. Louis. Taylor, 49, began experiencing heart attack symptoms early on March 9. Acall to 911 led to the arrival of EMS personnel minutes later. When the ambulance arrived at BarnesJewish Hospital’s emergency room, Taylor’s physicians already knew his status and had prepared the cardiac catheterization team to perform a coronary intervention to open up blocked arteries.

“The doctor was already aware of my heart attack and shared the status of my condition,” said Taylor.

Information sent in advance from EMS personnel, reduced the time from first medical contact to Taylor’s intervention to 59 minutes, with a “door-to-balloon” time (the period from which a patient arrives at the hospital to getting an intervention) of 37 minutes. The national goal for “door-to-balloon” time is 90 minutes.

“The St. Louis fire department paramedics did a great job sending in the 12-lead EKGs which directly led to fast activation of the cath lab,” said Martin.

Taylor not only survived his heart attack, he went home three days later.

The equipment was purchased with grants and donations from the St. Louis Fire Department Lifesaving Foundation and from community partners AT&T Foundation, Barnes-Jewish Hospital, Barnes-Jewish Hospital Foundation, Emergency Nurses Association, Saint Louis University Hospital, and US Bank.

Eye exams as vision problems increase in olderadults

St. Louis Society for the Blind & Visually Impaired is recommending that all adults over age 50 schedule an eye examination because theincidence of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and other vision problems is increasing in metropolitan St. Louis and across Missouri.

AMD causes deterioration of the center of the retina. This is the part of the eye, called the macula, controls central vision, perception of color and detail. It’s the most common cause of vision loss.

David Ekin, ACSW, LCSW, president of the Society, said the condition is a silent destroyer.

“It is a disease among mature adults and older people that, if not addressed, slowly obliterates central vision. It is a major cause of vision loss in people who are age 60 and older. AMD sometimes advances so slowly that people don’t notice much change in their vision while, in other people, it develops faster and can lead to vision loss in both eyes.”

“In Missouri, the incidence of Macular Degeneration is expected to nearly double in years ahead for people age 50 and older,” Ekin added. “AMD is the leading cause of blindness and visual impairment among people aged 65 and older, according to The Eye Diseases Prevalence Research Group and many other sources.”

Macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, cataracts and other primary causes of vision loss in older adults have led to more than 53,000 people age 65 and older in metro St. Louis reporting vision loss, according to recent data, Ekin said.

“This scenario leads to health and safety issues, required assistance with daily activities, transportation needs, increased risk for injuries and dependence on family members or community services.”

Persons with AMD experience vision blurring or darkening spots in the center of their vision. AMD does not cause total blindness because the side peripheral vision is not affected. Regular eye exams are important because, according to the CDC, with early diagnosis and new treatment options, doctors are able to prevent or minimize damage from AMD.

For more information, visit www.SLSBVI.org.

Blood vessel disease of retina may be markerof cognitive decline

Women 65 or older who have even mild retinopathy, a disease of blood vessels in the retina, are more likely to have cognitive decline and related vascular changes in the brain, according to a multi-institutional study led by scientists at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF).

The findings suggest that a relatively simple eye screening could serve as a marker for cognitive changes related to vascular disease, allowing for early diagnosis and treatment, potentially reducing the progression of cognitive impairment to dementia.

As retinopathy usually is caused by Type II diabetes or hypertension, a diagnosis could indicate early stages of these diseases, before they are clinically detectable. Early diagnosis could allow for lifestyle or drug interventions when they might be most effective.

“Lots of people who are pre-diabetic or pre-hypertensive develop retinopathy,” said the lead author of the study, Mary Haan, DrPH, MPH, UCSF professor of epidemiology and biostatistics. “Early intervention might reduce the progression to full onset diabetes or hypertension.”

The results, reported last month in an online issue of Neurology, were based on 10 years of data on 511 women with an average starting age of 69 from the Women’s Health Initiative Memory Study and the Site Examination study, two studies of the Women’s Health Initiative Clinical Trial of Hormone Therapy.

EATING

Continued from page 3

ning of the week, Pruitt started the purchased meal plan after the UPS delivered the goods mid-week.

“We had a big snow and my shipment had been delayed and I didn’t want to wait any longer,” Pruitt recalled. “So I started, it was on a Thursday, February 10 and I basically have not looked back.”

I have not looked back.”

She ate around 850 calories a day and lost 12 pounds the first week.

“I averaged between two and three pounds a week for 10-1/2 months and it was just amazing.

“It was easy – I was very committed from the beginning to follow the plan as written,” Pruitt explained.

In addition to lower numbers on the scales, Pruitt said she immediately felt the benefits as well.

“It was like, ‘Okay, if you feel this good and you’ve only lost 30 pounds, how are you going to feel when you lose 50?’” Pruitt described. “It was exhilarating and I began to move more – I wanted to walk and I wanted to do things and I wasn’t coming home totally worn out. It was just amazing.”

It was easy and it was amazing, but it wasn’t cheap.

Pruitt estimates she spent $250-$300 per month for 10-1/2 months on the plan to get her weight under control.

She still eats six times a day to maintain her weight. Pruitt said she has learned how to incorporate vegetables and fruit into her busy day, not just at dinner.

“It really did teach me in a way that no other diet had,” she said. “This really taught me what I could have at this particular time of the day.”

Pruitt has shed a total of 125 lbs. going from size 24 (although she admits she really could have used a size 26 but refused to go up any higher) to sizes 10, 12 or medium. With no more swollen feet and ankles, Pruitt’s shoe size shrunk from 11 wide to 9-1/2 and 10s.

Her physical activity includes walking in her neighborhood, Pilates and Zumba.

Pruitt now prepares all of her meals herself to maintain her weight and she is and loving every minute of it.

“At this point, I want everybody to feel what I feel right now,” Pruitt said. “It literally, I believe – put 10 years on my life.”

Don’t ignore allergy symptoms in children

By Consuelo H.Wilkins,MD

It’s spring! Of course, with this year’s warmer than usual weather, it may be difficult to tell when winter departed and spring arrived.

Unfortunately, I didn’t need the calendar or the weather to tell me that spring was here. All I had to do was look at my son’s red and swollen eyes. He suffers from seasonal allergies and each spring he has at least a month of symptoms that include itchy, red, watery eyes.

Although seasonal allergies don’t usually result in long-term health complications, they can disrupt day-to-day activities including the ability to function at work or in school. This is a big concern for many parents, especially those who have young children who may not understand their symptoms. But regardless of age, anything that disrupts a child’s ability to learn is very concerning.

The most common symptoms of seasonal allergies affect the nose and nasal cavity (allergic rhinitis) and the eyes (allergic conjunctivitis). These symptoms include nasal congestion, nasal drainage, sneezing, itchy eyes, watery

drainage from eyes, red, irritated eyes and swelling around the nose and eyes.

Typically people with seasonal allergies have symptoms in the spring and/or fall when spores and pollen are released into the air by trees, grass and other vegetation. Although the spores and pollen can be an irritant and cause people who don’t have allergies to sneeze or have other mild symptoms, people who have allergies to these have a different response. If the body recognizes the spores or pollen as invaders (or allergens), the immune response releases chemicals to defend itself. The immune system’s response in this setting is usually hyperactive (overactive) and results in the allergy symptoms. Fortunately, there are treatments available for people with seasonal allergies.

Consuelo H. Wilkins,M.D., Medical Accuracy Editor

my son’s eyes, sometimes before he gets out of bed because he can’t open his eyes due to the swelling and drainage. After 5-10 minutes of the eye compresses, we try to clear the nasal congestion by having him blow his nose repeatedly. There is usually a lot of nasal drainage that developed overnight and sometimes we have to let him breathe over some light steam help break up the congestion. (Ahumidifier can be used or breathing over a sink with the hot water running can be helpful.) We then put in his allergy eye drops, have him chew his allergy medicine and sometimes we use his allergy nasal spray. This routine adds 20-30 minutes to our morning routine, which means we have to get up earlier.

child at school, be sure to ask whether your child is paying less attention when his allergy symptoms are present. If a child is less able to concentrate during school, he/she may require more reinforcement at home. Additionally, some of the allergy medications that are taken by mouth can cause drowsiness. If your child is awake throughout the night because of symptoms, this may also lead to daytime sleepiness.

If you have a child with seasonal allergies, here are some tips.

• Wash hands often, especially after playing outside.

• Keep windows closed and use the air conditioner, if necessary

• Limit outside time when pollen counts are very high. Find other indoor activities that allow physical activity.

• Inform teachers and school staff about symptoms and treatments for your child.

Atypical day in early spring in our home begins with cool compresses for

Of course, we are happy that there are effective treatments available and many of them are available over the counter. But treating seasonal allergies usually requires more medicines throughout the day so children often need to have medicine available at school or they will start having more symptoms, which can easily disrupt their day or cause distractions.

It is extremely important to communicate with your child’s teacher and other school staff if your child has seasonal allergies (or any other illness). In addition to providing medicines for your

• See your health care provider if over-the-counter treatments are not working.

• Ask your health care provider if a consultation with an allergist is needed.

For more information about seasonal allergies, visit the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.

Consuelo H. Wilkins, M.D., is medical accuracy editor of The St. Louis American and associate professor of medicine and psychiatry, Division of Geriatrics and Nutritional Science, at Washington University – St. Louis

YourHealth Matters

Abi-monthly special supplement of the St. Louis American April 5, 2012

YourHealth 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

Consuelo Wilkins, MD, Medical Accuracy Editor

Sandra Jordan, Health Reporter

Debbie Chase, Director of Health Strategy & Outreach

Onye Ijei, Barb Sills, Pamela Simmons, Sales

Michael Terhaar, Art/Production Manager

Angelita Jackson, Cover Design

Wiley Price, Photojournalist

ST. LOUIS AMERICAN

Marketers to pay $1.5 million forfake news hawking açai berry products

By Consumer Reports Health

Reprinted with permission

Two more online marketers will settle with the Federal Trade Commission and halt the deceptive use of fake news websites to promote açai berry supplements and “colon cleansers” as good for weight loss.

With these two settlements, eight of the 10 fake news site cases the FTC brought in 2010 are resolved, and the fake news sites affiliated with the operations have been shut down.

The settlement represents revenue from deceptive ads for açai berries, colon cleansers, and other supposed weight-loss dietary supplements, as well as other products marketed on the fake news sites. The settlement does not constitute an admission by defendants that the law was broken.

As part of the FTC’s ongoing crackdown on fake news sites touting bogus health claims, the proposed settlements requires the defendants make clear that commercial messages are advertisements and not journalism, and bars them from further deceptive claims about health-related products.

We’ve long said to beware of supplements marketed to help weight loss or improve performance in the gym or the bedroom, and we’ve also covered açai products before. Along with others, we’ve said the claims about açai berries might be hype. We’ve also warned that although they might be high in antioxidants, there’s little evidence that açai has the special weight-loss or other such powers that are often touted in Internet ads.

Two more online marketers will settle with the Federal Trade Commission and halt the deceptive use of fake news websites to promote açai berry supplements and “colon cleansers”as good for weight loss.

Tues. Apr. 3, 1-3 p.m., Stroke Support Group, May Center at SSM DePaul Health Center. Apresentation and educational session for stroke survivors and their family members or caregivers. For more information, call 314-344-7392.

April 4,5,11,12,18,19,25, –26, 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. – Girls Holla Back: 8-week HIV/AIDS Prevention Program, Missouri Institute of Mental Health - Dome Bldg, 5400 Arsenal St. St. Louis (63139)In an effort to reduce new cases of HIV/AIDS and drug use among African American females in St. Louis, this 8-week program complemented with fun-filled communications and bonding activities is being hosted for girls ages 12 - 17 and one of their adult female family members. Registration is required for this free program. To register, call (314) 8776487 or email girlshollaback@mimh.edu.

Mon. Apr. 9, 5-7 p.m., Alzheimer’s Association Getting Connected program, 9370 Olive Blvd., St. Louis, Mo. Designed for newcomers with memory loss and those concerned about their loved one’s well-being to learn the why, when and how to tap into the Alzheimer’s Association for reliable information and support. Registration is required; call 800-2723900 or visit www.alz.org/stl.

Tues. Apr. 10, 12:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m., AARPDriverSafety Course, at the Northwest HealthCare Community Room, 1225 Graham Rd., Florissant. Fee is $12 for AARPmembers and $14 for non-members payable to AARPthe day of training. Register at 314-7479355.

Wed., April 11, 4 pm, The Future of Healthcare with Dr. Louis W. Sullivan, Eric P. Newman Education Center, 320 S. Euclid Ave. on Washington University School of Medicine Campus. Dr. Sullivan,

CALENDAR

founder and President Emeritus of the Morehouse School of Medicine and Secretary of the Dept. of Health & Human Services under President George H. W. Bush will address this crucial issue. The event is free and open to the public. Register at 314747-9234 or visit publichealth.wustl.edu.

Wed. Apr. 11, 8 a.m. -11 a.m., Heart Screenings by SSM Heart Institute –SSM DePaul Health Center, 12303 DePaul Drive, Bridgeton, Mo. 63044, on the Main Entrance. Screening includes LDLcholesterol, triglycerides, HDLcholesterol, total cholesterol, cholesterol ratio, blood glucose, body fat analysis and blood pressure$20. For more information, visit ssmhealth.com/heart or call 1-866-7763627 to register.

Wed. Apr. 11, 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m., Memory Loss, Dementia & Alzheimer’s Disease: The Basics –the core education program of the Alzheimer’s Association St. Louis Chapter. The freeprogram provides a thorough overview of memory loss, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease while including information about research, treatments and how to get a diagnosis. St. Luke’s Hospital, lower level of North/South Medical Office Bldg., located at 232 S. Woods Mill Road, Chesterfield, MO 63017.Preregistration is required online at www.alz.org/stl or call 800272-3900.

Thurs. Apr. 12, 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m., 8th Annual Hats Off to Women healthy heart event at Christian Hospital Detrick Bldg. Atrium, Free blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose screenings from 5:30-8:30 and6 p.m.9 p.m. lecture. Aspecial gift to every woman who wears a hat and hearthealthy dinner will be served. Register by calling 314-747-9355.

Tues. Apr. 17, 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.,

Improving Health Outcomes in St. Louis:Emerging Research and Strategies to Address Health Disparities at Missouri History Museum. This program is presented by Our Community, Our Health, a joint program between Washington University and Saint Louis University that seeks to engage the St. Louis community in partnerships that address local health disparities. Alight breakfast will be served beginning at 7:30 am. The event is free and open to the public, but registration is required. Please visit bit.ly/OCOHApr17 to register.

For more details call 314-362-9829 or visit ourcommunity-ourhealth.org.

Tues. Apr. 17, 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., SSM Grief and Loss – Support Group at the Bridgeton Trails Library. Call 314-344-7080 for more information.

Sat. April 21, 6:30 p.m. – 11:00 p.m., Denim & Diamonds Christian Hospital Auxiliary 2012 Charity Ball. Paul F. Detrick Building on the Christian Hospital campus. For more information, call 314-653-5634.

Wed. Apr. 25, 8 a.m. -11 a.m., Heart Screenings by SSM Heart Institute –SSM St. Clare Health Center, 1015 Bowles Ave., Fenton, Mo. 63026 in the St. Francis Lobby. Screening includes LDLcholesterol, triglycerides, HDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, cholesterol ratio, blood glucose, body fat analysis and blood pressure - $20. For more information, visit ssmhealth.com/heart or call 1-866-7763627 to register.

Wed. Apr. 25, 6:30 p.m., Breastfeeding Class at SSM DePaul Health Center, designed for mothers and significant family members to learn more about breastfeeding. Includes information on how the breast makes milk, establishing a good milk supply, avoiding sore nipples and nur-

turing the breastfeeding family. $10 per couple. Call 314-SSM-DOCS (776-3627) to register.

Sat. April 28, 8:30 a.m., St. Louis Kidney Walk at Saint Louis University. Walk starts at 10 a.m. For more information, call 314-961-2828 or visit www.kidneyemo.org.

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; RSVPinitial participation to 636-9475304.

Tuesdays, 6:30 – 8:00 p.m., Help for a drug-free life - chemical dependency information meeting. Call 314-8393171.

Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m., STEPS Schizophrenia Support Group

This nationally recognized program provides education and support for those with schizophrenia. Group is facilitated by an experienced STEPS nurse. For more information, call 314839-3171.

First Thursdays, 10 a.m., Family Support Group by NAMI St. Louis, The Alliance on Mental Illness at the Grace Hill Murphy-O’Fallon Health Center, 1717 Biddle St. No registration needed; no cost. For more information, call 314-962-4670.

Free psychiatric and chemical dependency evaluations are confidential at the Christian Hospital Center for Mental Health. Call 314-839-3171.

Sexual Health

HEALTH RESOURCES

St. Louis County Health Department offers free, confidential testing, counseling and treatment at the North Central Community Health Center, 4000 Jennings Station Road, St. Louis, MO 63121. For more information, call 314-679-7800.

St. Louis Metropolitan HIV/AIDS Program offers confidential or anonymous Testing at St. Louis ConnectCare, Suite 203 at 5535 Delmar, St. Louis, Mo. 63112. For more information, call (314) 879-6468.

Respiratory Health

Free lung function screening - Christian Hospital Breathing Center at Northwest HealthCare, 1225 Graham Rd. For more information, call 314-953-6040.

Prescription Cost Help

St. Louis ConnectCare Retail Pharmacy – Offers a $4 generic prescription program. Hours are 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Mon. – Fri., no weekends or holidays. Located at 5535 Delmar Blvd. in St. Louis, Call 314-879-6208.

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.

Prostate Cancer

The CancerCenterof 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 314-3850998.

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.

Angel Food Ministries operates in hundreds of churches nationwide and offers heat and serve meals, canned and fresh food boxes at a reduced cost. Find the nearest locations by zip code at www.angelfoodministries.com.

Medical

St. Louis ConnectCare offers walk-in services Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and most holidays. For information, call 314-879-6300.

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 314-5330534.

Information

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

Health Partnerships:

The CenterforCommunity Health and Partnerships: Building Bridges forHealthy Communities works to develop and support beneficial community-academic partnerships to address the health needs of the St. Louis. For more information, email publichealth@wustl.edu; phone 314-747-9212 or visit publichealth.wustl.edu.

Eye Health

Free glaucoma screenings at Myrtle Hilliard Davis Comprehensive Health Center, 5471 Dr. Martin Luther King Dr. St. Louis, 63112 (second floor - Health Education Dept.).Walk-in screenings are Mon.Fri., 8:00 a.m. to 4:.30 p.m. For more information, call (314) 367-5820 ext. 2259.

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 (866-776-3627).

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.

Elderly can be as fast as young in some brain tasks

Both children and the elderly have slower response times when they have to make quick decisions in some settings. But recent research suggests that much of that slower response is a conscious choice to emphasize accuracy over speed.

In fact, healthy older people can be trained to respond faster in some decision-making tasks without hurting their accuracy – meaning their cognitive skills in this area aren’t so different from younger adults.

“Many people think that it is just natural for older people’s brains to slow down as they age, but we’re finding that isn’t always true,” said Roger Ratcliff, professor of psychology at Ohio State University and co-author of the studies.

“At least in some situations, 70-year-olds may have response times similar to those of 25-year olds.”

In a study published recently in the journal Child Development, Ratcliff extended their work to children. As expected, very young children have slower response times and poorer accuracy compared to adults, and these improve as the children mature.

But the more interesting finding is that older adults don’t necessarily have slower brain processing than younger people, said Gail McKoon, professor of psychology at Ohio State and co-author of the studies.

“Older people don’t want to make any errors at all, and that causes them to slow down. We found that it is difficult to get them out of the habit, but they can with practice,” McKoon said.

Researchers considered both the reaction time and the accuracy shown by participants in speeded tasks.

“If you look at aging research, you find some studies that show older people are not impaired in accuracy, but other studies that show that older people do suffer when it comes to speed. What this model does is look at both together to reconcile the results,” Ratcliff said.

Overall, Radcliff said their research suggests there should be greater optimism about the cognitive skills of seniors, which may not decline at the same rate as people age.

“We’re finding that there isn’t such a uniform decline. There are some things that older people do nearly as well as young people.”

Researchers discovermechanism in cells that lead to inflammatory diseases

Cedars-Sinai researchers have unlocked the mystery of how an inflammatory molecule is produced in the body, a discovery they say could lead to advances in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, type 2 diabetes and numerous other chronic diseases that affect tens of millions of people.

The study, funded by the National Institutes of Health, is published in a recent issue of the journal Immunity

The researchers identified for the first time the mechanism that leads to the production of the molecule interleukin1beta. It is a major contributor to inflammation, which lies at the root of many serious health conditions, including atherosclerotic heart disease and some types of strokes.

The new research could lead to the development of treatments that would prevent the body from producing it,

resulting in more effective medications and therapies for inflammatory diseases.

“If we understand how this molecule is made in the body, we may be able to block it before it is produced,” said study author Dr. Moshe Arditi, executive vice chair of research in the Department of Pediatrics and director of the Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases and Immunology. “Until now, this was the missing piece of the puzzle.”

Arditi, who also directs Cedars-Sinai’s Infectious and Immunologic Diseases Research Center, found that damaged mitochondrial DNAactivate specific proteins within dying cells, triggering the release of interleukin-1beta. Previous research has shown the molecule, when over-secreted by cells, can be a significant contributor to major inflammatory diseases.

Why every woman’s breasts are different

Why should women get a mammogram even if they do not feel a lump in their breast?

This is a question that many women ask. Many health conditions can cause lumps in the breast, including cancer. Amammogram is an X-ray picture of the breast. The reason women should get a mammogram even if they do not feel a lump in their breast is because a mammogram can show lumps in the breast that cannot be felt at all. More importantly, a mammogram is the best method to detect breast cancer early when it is easier to treat and before it is big enough to feel or cause symptoms. When their breast

cancer is found early, many women go on to live long and healthy lives.

No breast is typical. Every woman’s breast tissue is complex and can change with age. Also, the way a woman’s breasts look and feel can be affected by getting her period, having children, losing or gaining weight, and taking certain medications. Some women can feel lumps or changes in their breasts, while others cannot. Women should have a mammogram every year beginning at age 40 to detect any changes in their breast that might be cancer. Having regular mammograms helps women lower their risk of dying from breast cancer.

Read about St. Louis resident area resident, Francis Reed’s breast cancer story in the newspaper during April.

Where can I find a doctorand more information about breast health?

Visit www.siteman.wustl.edu for more information about breast cancer. Also, try our online tool to test your disease risk www.yourdiseaserisk.wustl.edu. You might be eligible to receive FREE annual mammograms. To find out, MO residents can call 314-4548466 or 1-800-600-3606. ILresidents can call 1-888-522-1282.

If you need help finding a primary care doctor, visit www.211.missouri.org or call 2-1-1 from most landlines (1-800-427-4626 from cell phones).

Visit www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast for information about breast cancer.

The Program forthe Elimination of Cancer Disparities (PECaD) at the Siteman CancerCenteris working to eliminate local and regional disparities in cancer education, prevention and treatment through community outreach, research and training. To learn more about breast cancerorto get involved with the PECaD, call 314-747-4611, email PECaD@siteman.wustl.edu or write to us at SCC-PECaD, Campus Box 8100, 660 S. Euclid Ave, St. Louis, MO, 63110. Look forfuture articles in HealthMatters.

PROFILING PEOPLE IN HEALTH

Kimberly Ray Redus

Position/Where:

Talent Acquisition Director, Barnes Jewish Hospital

CareerHighlights:

Celebrating 23 years of employment at Barnes Jewish Hospital in clinical and non-clinical roles, including talent acquisition director; talent acquisition manager; senior talent acquisition specialist senior recruiter; clinical nurse recruiter; interim nurse manager; assistant nurse manager; registered nurse; and patient care technician.

Awards: David A. Gee Meritorious Service Award (2008)

Education: Nursing Diploma –Jewish Hospital School of Nursing, B.S.N –Webster University

Personal:

Wife and mother of four daughters

Attends First Baptist Church of Webster Groves; serving in the House to House Ministry and as the assistant director of Destiny Children’s Church -I’m an alumnus of The St. Louis Business Diversity Initiative

St. Louis Connection: Attended Webster Groves High School

Journey to success:

There’s this old saying “You can be anything you want to be.” I believe it’s a little more to it than just wanting to be something. I now believe that you can be anything God wants you to be. For many years I thought I was in control of what I wanted to be and when I would reach all of my intended goals. It wasn’t until much later in life that I accepted that I had not been in charge of anything. It was in that moment that I decided to seek counsel from God in all that I thought I wanted to do in my professional and personal life and accepted his guidance. It seemed strange at first, letting go of me and accepting that I may be chosen to do things that I had never imagined.

No surprise that after 10 years in nursing, I began a new career in human resources. Two of the best decisions that I ever made were deciding to accept God’s choices for my life and consistently demonstrating excellence in all I do, regardless of the circumstances around me. My professional and personal growth has been rewarding (notice I did not say easier), following this simple recipe: with God’s counsel and my consistent commitment to excellence, I can be anything God wants me to be.

When you take this simple philosophy and place it inside an organization like Barnes Jewish Hospital, which is committed to taking exceptional care of people, you end up with 23 years of service and a wealth of extraordinary experiences with one employer.

Kimberly Ray Redus