August 15th, 2024 edition

St. LouiS AmericAn

SLPS prepares for first day after tumultuous month

By Lacretia Wimbley

St. Louis Public Radio

Transportation officials and leaders of St. Louis Public Schools shared plans Tuesday evening to begin the 2024-25 school year on a positive note.

The district has been under fire in recent months over student transportation, hiring and financial questions. Board of Education

President Antionette Cousins said at a Board of Education meeting Tuesday it is “working tirelessly, tirelessly to change. And we can’t do this alone. It takes a city to change the game.”

While there have been calls for her and another board members’ resignations, she stated, “To be clear, I will not step down from this position.”

Board member Emily Hubbard has called for Cousins and board Vice President Matt Davis to vacate their positions, citing a lack of transparency from leadership. Hubbard said her concerns about now-suspended Superintendent Keisha Scarlett’s hiring practices went unheard.

See SLPS, A6

The SLPS Chief Financial Officer Angie Banks clarified budget numbers Aug. 13. She said going from a $17 million surplus to a $35 million deficit are projections and proposals and they are not yet solidified. Banks said because of the state of the rainy day fund, they are not concerned about those numbers.

Homer G. Phillips nurses make case in court

‘They know their heritage’

By Alvin A. Reid St. Louis American

A hearing to determine whether the Homer G. Phillips Nursing Association trademark infringement lawsuit against developer Paul McKee and other defendants will move forward was held before St. Louis County Judge Heather R. Cunningham on Thursday morning. History, heritage and technical legalities were intertwined as attorney Rick Voytas presented arguments for the Nursing Association plaintiffs.

1st District Cong.

Cori Bush gives Mike Brown Sr. a hug during the 10th anniversary of the shooting death of his son Michael Brown Jr. by Ferguson police officer Darren Wilson held Friday, Aug. 9, 2024 in the Canfield Apartments.

Brown remembered on 10th anniversary of his death

By Ashley Winters

The St. Louis American

The All Roads Lead to Ferguson Unity Walk took place in honor of Michael Brown Jr., on Aug. 9, the 10th anniversary of the killing of the young Ferguson teen by former Ferguson police officer Darren Wilson.

The march began at Normandy High School, where Brown graduated in 2014, and ended at the Canfield Apartments where he was shot and killed. Blue roses and teddy bears lined the street leading to the spot where his body lay in the August heat for four hours. The makeshift

“We feel our strong position will bear fruit at this hearing,” Voytas said following the hearing, which was held in a packed courtroom with Nurses Association members and supporters including Dr. Will Ross, Washington

Ferguson police officer fighting for his

Injured on August 9

By

memorial was created to honor his memory and the subsequent fight for justice.

“The royal blue is Mike Brown Jr.’s favorite color,” said his stepmother, Cal Brown. She said three weeks before his death they went to Home Depot and bought royal blue paint to paint his bedroom. “I try to do things that represent him so people can remember who he was.”

She believes it’s going to take unity for St. Louis to move forward. “Unity is the most important thing, especially here in St. Louis, there is so much work to be done and if we

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American

Nelly takes stage with MGK two days after arrest

File this one under “you can’t keep a good man down.”

Fresh off his highly publicized arrest at Hollywood Casino in Maryland Heights, Nelly surprised Machine

Gun Kelly by jumping on stage and performing during the annual MGK Day celebration in Cleveland on Saturday.

As TMZ reported last week, Nelly hit a slot machine jackpot to the tune of $50,000 and all heck broke loose.

A casino security background check came back with a red flag – an out standing arrest warrant.

Driving without insurance came back to haunt Nelly because he failed to address the issue. An arrest warrant had been issued.

Things worsened when police allegedly found four ecstasy

pills on him. After a “perp walk” through the casino, Nelly was carted off to jail.

His famed defense attorney, Scott Rosenbloom said “instead of just supervising the transfer of [Nelly’s] winnings [a police officer] felt compelled to needlessly run a check for warrants.”

He said there was no probable cause for the search and that Nelly “was targeted by an overzealous, out-of-line

The casino did eventually cough up Nelly’s 50K, according

Diddy’s ex, rapper Yung Miami [Caresha] ‘opens up’ about his allegations

“I can’t speak on these allegations because I wasn’t around at the time,” Rapper Yung said of her ex-boy-

friend Sean Combs’ (Diddy) allegations of severe abuse.

Miami clarified she has been in two abusive relationships but said Combs did not abuse her.

Many commenters online noted how silent Miami had been during Combs’ downfall. She claims her perspective was she did not feel the need to insert herself into allegations against her ex.

As for the video that showed Diddy violently assaulting singer Cassie, she reiterated ‘she was not there for that behavior.’

“I can’t speak on something that wasn’t my experience, and I can’t speak on something that I don’t know,” Yung Miami said, explaining why she had stayed silent. “I can’t speak on these allegations because I wasn’t around at the time.”

After confirming the distance she put in place between herself and Diddy’s abusive behavior, she claims it’s unfair to be asked about him.

“I met Diddy when the world was celebrating him and giving him his flowers while he was still alive,” she said. “So I was celebrating him with the world, and I feel like everybody is

crucifying me for it.”

Trick Daddy belatedly defends St. Louis’ Sexyy Red

While everyone, except some nominees, has moved on entirely from the June 2024 BET Awards, the father of Trick had to break his silence on Sexyy Red

On his aptly titled “B###h I Got My Pots” podcast cooking show, he expressed his frustration over the “Get It Sexyy” rapper being what he describes as a major Sexyy Red snub for her nomination for ‘Best New Artist.’

“One of the hottest female rappers in decades, Sexyy Red…You got snubbed,” Trick Daddy said. “Yeah, I said, and you got snubbed. You got snubbed,” he unnecessarily said twice more.

Trick Daddy cited her popularity as why she deserved to be honored as ‘Best New Artist.’

“They hated her since she wasn’t making it, and now I can’t go to a club. I can’t step in a club without hearing some Sexyy Reds.”

Sources: Allhiphop, TMZ

“This can be his legacy.” - UCLA Professor Marcus Hunter on why President Biden should appoint reparations commission.

Starsky Wilson offers stirring tribute to Michael Brown

“What if cries of the boy were words of the Lord?”

By Sylvester Brown, Jr. St. Louis American

Throughout his career, Rev. Dr. Starsky D. Wilson, president and CEO of the Children’s Defense Fund (CDF), has worn several hats.

He has a distinguished history of activism in philanthropy, faith, and community for child well-being and racial justice. Wilson chairs the board for Duke University’s Divinity School, is a trustee of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and its chair-elect and serves as a director for the Forum for Theological Exploration (FTE).

Before joining the CDF, Wilson was president and CEO of the Deaconess Foundation and served as pastor of Saint John’s Church (The Beloved Community), a multiracial congregation in the city.

That pastoral hat was on full display Sunday, August 11, 2024, as Wilson delivered a sermon at his former church in recognition of the 10th anniversary of Mike Brown Jr. ‘s death. Wilson spoke at the “Michael Brown Jr. Youth Affirmation Worship Service,” hosted by Michael Brown Sr. ‘s Chosen for Change organization (CFC), Metropolitan Congregations United (MCU) and St. John’s

Church.

Back in the comforts of his former church, Wilson easily slipped into his familiar role as a fire and brimstone Baptist preacher. He took the audience on a revealing journey that connected the Jeremiah Chapter 18:8–9 to the meaning of Mike Brown’s tragic death.

Interpreting the King James version of the scripture, Wilson said: “My joy is gone. Grief is upon me. My heart is sickened. Hark the cry of my poor people from far and wide in the land.”

“I wonder about Michael’s melancholy,” he asked before outlining the conditions that

Brown’s high school district, Normandy, was enduring two years before his death.

“Michael felt deeply … he was trying to make sense of the things going on around him … things going on in his community. I will never forget, at that time, when young people from Normandy were sent out to St. Charles and were met with a gymnasium full of people … telling these children to go home.”

When Brown was a sophomore in 2012, the state had stripped Normandy of its accreditation because of poor academic performance. Although it was

During his tribute to the late Michael Brown Jr., Rev, Starsky Wilson, president and CEO of the Children’s Defense Fund, recalled the challenges that Brown faced as a youth in Ferguson who attended Normandy schools.

by Sylvester Brown Jr. / St. Louis American

Emphasizing that point, Wilson ticked off dire statistic such as the disproportionate depression, anxiety, and suicide rates among Black teenagers. The Covid-19 epidemic, he stressed, only exacerbated “stressors Black children and families faced even before the pandemic which are leading to worsened mental health outcomes.”

Wilson asked the audience to consider the cries of children like the pleas of the weeping prophet, saying, “I believe the children speak the Lord’s voice.”

He segued into Dr. Martin Luther King’s infamous, ‘three major evils of society” speech, stressing how racism, poverty, and war impact youth. He specifically highlighted how poverty or extreme materialism is an evil that saps “the joy” from children’s lives. On that note, he took a shot at former President Trump.

challenged in courts, Normandy families were allowed to leave the unaccredited district and enroll their children in higher-performing ones like Francis Howell High School in St. Charles.

Sympathizing with today’s youth who grapple with things “that don’t make sense,” Wilson insisted they wrestle with emotions and “try to put things together in a manner of the world that is around them … and when things don’t make sense (they) find the best equilibrium. This is the state of the 74 million Americans under the age of 18,” he said.

“God is not pleased with leaders who don’t follow his ordinances, even if they choose to sell Bibles for political purposes,” Wilson said. “You don’t have to know what’s in the Bible when you stand in front of a church holding it upside down to move protestors out of the way who are trying to advance democracy.”

Wilson suggested that Mike Brown’s untimely death represented much more than a mere unjust police shooting. Brown, as a martyr, represents a call from a higher source to reinstate justice and to restore “joy” for America’s youth.

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

Photo

Guest Editorial

Keeping eye on election prize Commentary

By Janice Ellis

No state is an island. No state will survive, let alone thrive, without a winning America.

Missouri’s welfare and America’s are inextricably tied.

In what direction is Missouri headed?

In what direction is America headed?

With less than 100 days remaining, we suddenly find ourselves in a very different presidential campaign on so many historic fronts. Kamala Harris vs. Donald Trump.

In the coming weeks, we will have many opportunities to witness the words and actions of both candidates as they vie for the most important elected office in this country, if not indeed the world.

We have either participated in or watched our nation become more tolerant of extreme views and practices that are undermining and destroying those things that we prided ourselves in — those things that make us be that light, that beacon, on the hill that inspire us to achieve the best in humanity: equal opportunity, equal rights, respect for the rule of law, democratic principles, and decency.

What about we as Missourians?

Missouri, located in the heart of America and proudly wearing the banner as the Show-MeState, has been a pro-Republican state for a number of years.

best interest of your family, community and state?

In November, as we pull the lever for a candidate for national or state offices, we must ask ourselves: Are they committed to pursuing and promoting what is in the best interest of the citizens they represent when it comes to supporting national and state policies and laws?

We not only owe that serious consideration to ourselves, our families but to our fellow citizens and the future of our state and nation.

What are the overriding priorities guiding your attentiveness, active or passive support, and ultimately your vote for the candidates in upcoming elections?

Election results have major consequences, which can change the course of Missouri and this nation for many years to come.

The GOP policy focus has been with the extreme national views espoused by the current Republican Party when it comes to women’s reproductive health, immigration, voting rights, gun safety measures and many others.

As you can see, Missouri elected officials and the legislature have fallen in line with the national Republican agenda on these same issues.

America and Missouri have a representative democracy — we elect people to go to the seat of government to represent our interest and well-being. Can you unequivocally say that your representatives at both the state and national level are fighting for those things that are in the

Are you clear about what prize is at stake? Are you clear about how critical your actions are in determining whether we as a state and nation can win or lose it?

Amid all of the campaign noise — factual and slanted reporting, voices of zealots, extremists and voices of reason — selecting a positive course for the state and the nation is really up to us, taking the time to cut through it all.

In your mind, what is most at risk, what is up for grabs in the upcoming state and national elections?

We must be clear about what we want for our state and nation, and who best embodies that vision and will lead us there.

Future generations and history will judge our choices during these historic and defining times.

Hopefully, we will have met the moment, and they will adjudge our choices as being priceless.

Missouri Independent columnist Janice Ellis analyzes educational, political, social and economic issues across race, ethnicity, age and socio-economic status.

Commentary

Honoring the resilient Sheila Jackson

By Marc Morial

“I am a benefactor of the hills and valleys, the broken bodies and broken hearts, the loss of life of many who have gone on before me.” — U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee

The so-called “anti-woke” movement in the United States is determined to obscure the nation’s ugly history of slavery, segregation, and discrimination.

But Sheila Jackson Lee saw the beauty in that history.

“The Constitution did not grant us citizenship or even status as one human being, but we survived,” she said.

“We had the Harriet Tubman of the world, the Sojourner Truth of the world. We had the Frederick Douglass of the world. That is the beauty of America. We were resilient, we should tell that story. Brutality comes with survival and success.”

when Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. If King had died trying to create better opportunities for people like her, she had an obligation to make the most of those opportunities.

One immediate opportunity was a scholarship for Black students to attend New York University, which led her to Yale where she was among the first graduating class to include women. She was among a handful of Black students in her class at University of Virginia School of Law. A classmate described her as “a hard worker who loved to grapple with the issues in the hypothetical cases that we were required to analyze.”

Lee, who passed away July 19, inspired a generation of public servants and activists with her fearlessness and indomitable spirit. She fought tirelessly for racial justice and equal opportunity, speaking up for those who too often go unheard.

She was a longtime friend of the Urban League movement. The National Urban League was proud to honor her with our Living Legend Award during our Conference in Houston last year.

As chair of the Bipartisan Congressional Coronavirus Task Force, she was part of a dynamic panel of experts who participated in the virtual release event for the 2020 State of Black America report, “Unmasked.” She also served as a member of the board of trustees of the Houston Area Urban League.

Lee didn’t plan on a career in public service when she was growing up in Queens, New York City. That all changed

History repeats itself in Springfield, Illinois

Lynching often involved amputations, mutilation, torture and castration. The bodies were publicly lifted up and displayed in full view because they wanted to intimidate and traumatize Black communities.

By David W. Marshall

William Donnegan was a shoemaker and once a conductor on the Underground Railroad. During the Springfield massacre of 1908, a white mob lynched Donnegan and left him for dead.

Police later cut him down from a tree outside his home. He was transported to the hospital where he later died from his injuries.

On Friday August 16, 2024, President Biden will sign an executive order making the Springfield Race Riot site and memorial a national monument.

In July 2024, Sonya Massey was shot by law enforcement in her home over a pot of hot water. Massey was a descendant of William Donnegan. She, like any concerned citizen, called police in fear of a home intruder.

William Donnegan and Sonya Massey died at the same St. John’s hospital in Springfield 116 years apart. Two lives cut short by senseless attacks.

In many ways our nation has changed, but it hasn’t changed.

More than 4,400 Black people were killed in racial terror lynching between 1877 and 1950. They are remembered having their names engraved on more than 800 monuments — one for each county where a lynching took place. As this memorial confronts the shameful history of racial terror, it also reminds us that this legacy of fear and trauma continues today by way of unjust killings of Black people at the hands of law enforcement. George Wallace once occupied the Alabama state capitol as governor. His idle words would eventually become deadly. He provoked public violence in the south where people were inspired to put violent action behind their personal feelings of resentment and rage.

When the National Memorial for Peace and Justice, informally known as the National Lynching Memorial, opened in Montgomery, Alabama, it was to commemorate the Black victims of lynching in the United States. Its focus was to acknowledge past racial terrorism and advocate for social justice throughout our nation. Symbolically placed on high ground overlooking the city, it is located approximately a mile from the state capitol building and the city’s overabundance of Confederate statues.

The powerful museum explains lynching as a direct legacy of slavery and a way of enforcing white supremacy. Lynching often involved amputations, mutilation, torture and castration. The bodies were publicly lifted up and displayed in full view because they wanted to intimidate and traumatize Black communities. The spilling of innocent blood is their legacy which was tolerated and often aided by law enforcement and elected officials. Exhibits explore a consistent history of violence and control over Black Americans.

Many of Wallace’s speeches were rallying cries that indirectly motivated acts of domestic terror, harassment and even murder.

During the same year as his infamous “segregation now” speech, Wallace in a newspaper interview, said he believed Alabama needed a “few first-class funerals” to stop racial integration.

One week later, four young girls were killed and over 20 others were injured in a bombing at the 16th Street Baptist Church in downtown Birmingham. Martin Luther King Jr. later informed Wallace that “the blood of four little children … is on your hands. Your irresponsible and misguided actions have created in Birmingham and Alabama the atmosphere that has induced continued violence and now murder.”

While campaigning for president in Maryland, Wallace was shot, leaving him paralyzed. A contrite Wallace would later meet with various civil rights activists and addressed Black congregations to personally ask for their forgiveness. Wallace showed that a man can change his ways. For the hanged and beaten. For the shot, drowned and burned. For the tortured, tormented and terrorized. For those abandoned by the rule of law. We will remember.

Things change, but they don’t change.

Washington Informer columnist William Marshall is author of “God Bless Our Divided America.”

She continued to grapple with difficult issues throughout her career. She was the author and lead sponsor of the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, which established the first new federal holiday in 38 years, and the lead sponsor of H.R. 40, the Commission to Study Slavery and Develop Reparation Proposals.

“Though some have tried to deflect the importance of these conversations by focusing on individual monetary compensation, the real issue is whether and how this nation can come to grips with the legacy of slavery that still infects current society,” she said.

“With the over criminalization and policing of black bodies, a reoccurring issue in African-American communities, I believe this conversation is both relevant and crucial to restoring trust in governmental institutions in many communities.

“A federal commission can help us reach into this dark past and bring us into a brighter future.”

Marc Morial is National Urban League president and CEO

Guest Columnist David W. Marshall

Guest Columnist Janice Ellis

Columnist Marc Morial

19, 2024.

AfterSchool ReFuel

launches on August 19

St. Louis American

Operation Food Search has teamed up with the public library systems in St. Louis and St. Louis County to provide free after-school meals throughout the school year as part of its AfterSchool ReFuel program.

As part of the program, 10 libraries across the city and county will provide “super snacks” for children free of charge starting on Aug. 19, 2024.

“These nutritious ‘super snacks,’ which include a fruit, vegetable, protein, dairy and whole grain, help kids and teens stay focused and active through the afternoon and into the evening,” Operation Food Search said in a release.

Meals are available after school and during winter and spring breaks. The program aims to reduce health problems stemming from undernutrition Participating library branches include:

• Baden Library 8448 Church Dr.

Monday-Friday 3 - 4:30 p.m.

• Carpenter Library 3309 S Grand Blvd.

Monday-Sunday 3:15 - 4:15 p.m.

• Central Library 1301 Olive St. Monday-Saturday 3 - 4 p.m.

• Divoll Library 4234 North Grand Blvd. Monday-Friday 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.

• Julia Davis Library 4415 Natural Bridge Ave. Monday-Sunday 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.

• Walnut Park Library 760 W Florissant

Ave.

Monday-Friday 4 - 5 p.m.

• Lewis & Clark Branch 9909 Lewis-Clark Blvd.

Monday-Friday 3:30-4:30 p.m.

• Natural Bridge Branch 7606 Natural Bridge Rd.

Monday-Friday 3:30-4:30 p.m.

• Prairie Commons Branch 915 Utz Lane

Monday-Friday 3:00-4:30 p.m.

• Weber Road Branch 4444 Weber Rd. Monday-Friday 2:45-4:00 p.m.

Kamala Harris’ ‘Divine’ secret weapon

By Jill B. Louis

Much has been made about the role of Black women in the 2024 election. In February 1913, before women’s right to vote was added to the U.S. Constitution, Nelly M. Quander, a Black woman, Howard University graduate, and then-president of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., engaged pointedly with the women’s suffrage movement. She implored Alice Paul, chair of the women’s suffrage parade, to permit the college women of Howard University to participate in the women’s suffrage procession without being relegated to a demeaning position in the procession because of their race.

From 1955 to 1956, the Montgomery, Alabama, bus boycotts credited with desegregating buses in Montgomery, were organized by Black women on the ground in Montgomery years before the 13-month protest.

Later, Alpha Kappa Alpha was one of 89 organizations that formed the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights, lobbying for the successful passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, as well as organizing the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom in 1963.

The keynote speaker of that march, Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., was a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, the first fraternity for Black college men.

Fast forward to 1983, and Howard University students took the walk to the Washington Monument to recreate the March on Washington 20 years later. These college marchers were born around the same time as the original march. They would go on to protest apartheid and advocate for continued access to the American Dream. This was the era in which Vice President Kamala Harris attended Howard University, joined Alpha Kappa Alpha and went on to attend law school.

Organizing and acting collectively is a survival skill developed over the course of the Black experience in the United States. When Vice President Harris was named to the 2020 presidential ticket of Joe Biden, Black women were among the first to utilize their considerable grassroots ground game to garner support for the ticket, newly energized with a woman who embodied the promises of the March on Washington and all that came before. Harris was recognizable to us immediately as a product of the HBCU experience and the Divine 9.

We knew what she stood for intuitively, and we knew she would need our help. Words like “service” and “helping” are built into the missions of our organizations. So too, is the word “excellence.” When we see excellence, we come running to lift it up. In Vice President Harris, we see a woman who played by the rules of hard work and accountability even when the rules were unwritten and definitely did not favor a Black woman.

Vice President Harris’ amplification of her sorority as her source of strength and inspiration and the success that has flowed from her experiences has brought them into the full view of the mainstream. The fact that these organizations have large and active post-graduate chapters makes them a ready collection of civically engaged influencers in their communities.

These college-educated community members also have financial resources to support candidates. The combination of clear-eyed, mission-oriented organizing and the financial strength of the post-segregation generation has created the environment in which a Vice President and potentially President Harris can not only exist but win the highest office in America.

Jill B. Louis is a Dallas attorney and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. line sister to VP Kamala Harris. This commentary was originally published by The Grio

Through the Operation Food Search AfterSchool ReFuel program, 10 area libraries will provide nutritional snacks for children free of charge starting on Aug.

Photo courtesy of St. Louis County Library

Jill B. Louis

Continued from A1

University, associate dean for diversity and inclusion at Washington University School of Medicine and professor of medicine in the Division of Nephrology. and activist Percy Green.

Attorney Joseph Dulle argued for McKee that Cunningham should grant a summary judgement to end the case based on two arguments.

The first is that there is “no confusion” between the Homer G. Phillips Nursing Association and the urgent care facility that McKee has placed the name Homer G. Phillip.

Dulle argued that the Nursing Association “does not provide healthcare services to the people of north St. Louis.” As a result, there is “no confusion” on use of the name.

Dulle told the court there are also “at least seven other entities” in the state of Missouri that use the name.

“They don’t like the use of the name; that is not enough,” he said.

Voytas called the claim that the Nurses Association does not provide health care services and education “disingenuous.” He said his brief to Cunningham contained more than 40 examples of community health care services.

Brown

Continued from A1

don’t do it together we are going to continue to have to lay roses,” Brown said. “We have to unite, it doesn’t matter what color you are, we all have to come together. We have to start loving each other and valuing each other.” Brown’s death brought international attention to the Black Lives Matter

SLPS

Continued from A1

The Missouri State Auditor’s office began its investigation of the district on Tuesday. Kelly Davis, a representative of the office, said staff members will begin by meeting with SLPS acting Superintendent Millicent Borishade and other district leaders about logistics. Then they’ll conduct surveys to gain a broad understanding of the school district, Davis said. From there, they’ll focus

Officer

Continued from A1 Plaza on West Florissant in Dellwood, Missouri. The event was held on the 10th anniversary of

“These ladies are out in the community. They are alive and kicking and deserve the rightful protection of their name,” he said.

Voytas told Cunningham that the organization received a trademark for the name in May 2021, long before the urgent care center saw its first patient. In countering the “no confusion” argument,

Movement and the “Hands Up Don’t Shoot” mantra. For a decade, Brown’s family and impacted communities have been fighting for justice for the wrongful death of Mike Brown Jr. The St. Louis region has had to grapple with the systemic racism that affects families north of Delmar and parts of North County in response to days and months of civil unrest in the small North County suburb of Ferguson, which was seen

on specific areas they find to be significant.

The state auditor will review the district’s 2023-24 school year through July 31, but staff members are not limited to that time frame, Davis said. She said they will work closely with the board throughout the process but try not to overlap a separate third-party investigation that is currently in process into a personnel matter. SLPS will not have to pay anything for the state audit, she added. Scarlett is on a temporary leave of absence. The third-party investiga-

Michael Brown’s death, who was shot and killed by a former Ferguson police officer on August 9, 2014. Before dawn of August 10, a Black Ferguson police officer was hospitalized in grave condition

Voytas said, “these ladies know who they are, and they know Paul McKee’s hospital is not them and not their heritage.”

Voytas said McKee’s use of the name Homer G. Phillips is no different than his using “The Red Cross Hospital” on the urgent care facility.

“A team of lawyers that make a lot more than I do would be here protecting the name of The Red

under the microscope of both national and international news outlets.

At the march, activists chanted “No Justice No Peace!” in Brown’s honor. Many kept repeating his name to make sure the world does not forget that tragic day. A 10-second countdown came shortly after prayer and butterflies were released in Mike Brown’s memory as family, friends, and supporters shouted, “We love you, Mike Brown.”

tion is expected to be completed in September, and until then, no decisions will be made about her employment, Davis has previously said.

Transportation

Square Watson, the district’s chief operations officer, reported that nearly half of the roughly 14,000 St. Louis Public Schools students who need transportation to school will now ride yellow school buses provided by First Student when classes resume on Monday.

He noted Tuesday that more than 6,400 students

after allegedly being assaulted by a Black assailant outside the Ferguson Police station and hitting his head on the pavement.

Injured was Ferguson officer Travis Brown, who remained in critical

Cross,” he said.

The attorney said, regardless of other legal arguments, the ‘TM’ that denotes ‘trademark’ is on the urgent care building with the name Homer G. Phillips name.

“Guess who uses it? Mr. McKee’s hospital. They have the ‘TM’ on their sign. The only people to have this trademark are the nurses. That is game, set, match,” Voytas said in

“We should never forget brother Mike Brown,” Dr. Cornel West shouted to the crowd. Ferguson protester Charli Cooksey, founder and CEO of We Power, observed over the last 10 years that St. Louis has started to build the infrastructure for Black political power to help transform the region into a more equitable society.

“We have wins that imply we are headed in the right direction, but we have a lot more work to

will ride yellow school buses and over 6,200 will utilize alternative vehicles. More than 630 families voluntarily opted out of receiving transportation from the district, he said, and fewer than 1,600 students will take public transit.

“As we get more buses and they become available, we’ll make adjustments, which means that we’ll continue to communicate to families, and we’ll be able to take them off of the public transit, or Metro, and we’ll be able to remove them from our cabs, vans, sedans and SUVs,” Watson said

condition on Wednesday, according to Doyle.

“Our officer is still in bad shape,” Doyle said.

On Wednesday, Brown’s family issued a statement that said in part:

“Travis is more than a police officer; he is a devoted father, son, brother, uncle, godfather, and friend. A man of strong faith, his heart is as big as his smile, and his positive energy is truly contagious.

“TJ is also an athlete, an adventurer, a lover of movies, and so much more. We know he is determined to continue living life to the fullest once he has recovered. At this time, we kindly ask for your continued prayers as we focus on Travis’s healing and recovery.”

During a Tuesday press conference, Doyle reviewed video that showed the confrontation developing. The captain said he told his officers to arrest anyone who did property damage. The department was fenced, and protestors began pushing on it.

According to a St. Louis Public Radio report,

a raised, exuberant voice.

Following the hearing Ross said that the Washington University Homer G. Phillips Nursing Association Lecture Series is just one of the ways the organization impacts health care in the region.

He called McKee’s legal arguments and use of the name “an affront to history and to the Homer G. Phillips hospital itself.”

While Voytas said he

do,” she said. Being a part of the grassroots organizations that came out of the Ferguson movement, Cooksey points out that the services that those organizations provide weren’t an option 10 years ago. “The death of Mike Brown Jr. and the uprising has given us permission to speak our truth about what was never working about this region and to act on our truth by building power unapologetically.”

U.S. Congresswoman

Tuesday. Information on how to ride the Metro Transit is on Metro Transit’s website and the school district’s site. SLPS purchased Student Semester Passes and is distributing them to high school students who need rides to and from school.

“Some of the students and parents may never have taken MetroBus for transportation until now,” said Metro Transit Chief Operating Officer Charles Stewart.

“We want them to be prepared so we have teams ready to help parents and students plan their bus

officers walk toward a man whom police identified as 28-year-old Elijah Gantt of East St. Louis. He flees from the officers.

Another clip, which drew audible gasps from the audience, shows Gantt appearing to run directly into Ferguson officer Travis Brown, causing him to fall backward and hit his head.

“If you look at the video, the officer is standing there waiting to try and catch this guy,” Doyle said Tuesday. “It wasn’t a collision, he’s standing there, and this guy tackled my guy like he was a football player.”

St. Louis County Prosecutor Wesley Bell said his office has added a fourth-degree assault charge against Gantt. He is being held on a $500,000 bail, and was previously charged with first-degree assault, resisting arrest, and property damage. Doyle said two other officers suffered minor injuries.

“If you haven’t condemned this act or condemned what happened to my officers, you are part

expects a ruling might wait as long as two months.

“[The nurses] have a right to justice. And they have a right to protect their name from use on a for-profit hospital,” he said.

Voytas said following the hearing that he expected at least two months to pass before Judge Cunningham made her ruling.

Cori Bush (D-MO) said that so many of the activists and protesters have become better people in the aftermath. “Remember where we started from, remember why we started this,” Bush said. “There has still not been accountability, there has still not been justice for his family.”

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

trips, to determine what MetroBus route to take, where the closest bus stop is to their home, and what time the bus arrives at the stop and at school.” Watson and SLPS Transportation Director Toyin Akinola said all vehicles will be doorto-door and will have an identifier number on the windshield. Drivers will make contact with parents before arriving, he said. Parents can visit the school district’s FAQ page to leave questions and concerns and receive updates on transportation.

of the problem,” Doyle said.

On Tuesday evening, a large crowd returned to the Ferguson Police department to pray for Brown.

“Mixed races, old, young. I mean look at this crowd. It’s really heartwarming. This is what community looks like,” Doyle said during the event.

“This really just needs to be the time that we all come together.” Ferguson Mayor Ella Jones said loudly during a speech, “It’s good to see us all coming together. Ferguson is no longer ground zero. This is the ground of hope.”

A GoFundMe page ‘Support Ferguson Officer Travis Brown’ has already raised $45,000 to help Brown’s family with mounting medical bills and other expenses. In addition, Backstoppers is also raising money in support of Brown and his family at backstoppers.

org. Eric Schmid of St. Louis Public Radio contributed to this report.

Members and supporters of the Homer G. Phillips Nursing Association with attorney Rick Voytas following an August 8, 2024 hearing before Judge Heather Cunningham at the St. Louis County Courthouse. The nurses have sued developer Paul McKee and associates for trademark infringement for the use of ‘Homer G. Phillips’ on a three-bed urgent care center at Jefferson and Cass.

Photo by Bonita Cornute

‘Taking

Care of You’

Young artist’s work will grace Affinia walls

St. Louis American

Art can help calm patients

Affinia Healthcare is partnering with youth artist Symone Chatman to display her artistic talent at the health center’s Biddle, Lemp and new Ferguson locations.

“Symone has talented hands and a talented mind,” said Takisha Lovelace, Affinia Healthcare vice president and chief operating officer.

“It’s a joy to be able to share this with our patients and our staff.” Chatman, a 9-year-old artist, was noticed by Shanieka Curry, Affinia Healthcare patient portal liaison who later brought the artwork to the atten-

n “Our leadership team agreed to add her work to our spaces, complementing children’s artwork that already brightens our halls and exam rooms.”

–Shanieka Curry

tion of management.

“Our leadership team agreed to add her work to our spaces, complementing children’s artwork that already brightens our halls and exam rooms,” Curry said “It’s a demonstration of how

Affinia Healthcare continues to invest in our community, creating a platform that extends beyond healthcare services to foster a sense of community pride and connection.”

See ARTIST, A9

The path to justice winds through Ferguson

By Dr. Dwayne Proctor

Ten years have passed since

Michael Brown Jr.’s life was taken, and the world is still dealing with the aftershocks. The outcry and righteous anger in Ferguson caught fire around the globe, catalyzing protests and changing how we talk about racial justice and equity. This wasn’t the first time an unarmed Black teenager died in a police-involved shooting. But Brown’s death was a tipping point that fundamentally changed untold lives, including my own.

Before I talk about where I was on August 9, 2014, I have to talk about a sun-drenched afternoon on April 4, 1968. I was four years old, living with my parents in Washington, D.C. My mom was a telephone operator, and my dad was a metropolitan police officer. Their love and steadfastness bordered my world in the best ways. I remember my mom answering the phone and handing it to my father.

n The Ferguson Uprising reminded us that we can conquer divisions of race, geography, politics, and economic status and embrace our shared humanity.

“Yes, sir. Yes, sir. Yes, sir,” his voice rumbled. My parents had just learned and painfully shared that Martin Luther King, Jr. had been assassinated. Dad put on his uniform in silence. Even then, my brain wondered what he would do. Would he harm and arrest people, or would he try to keep the peace?

I watched my father leave our apartment, a uniformed and formidable presence. From my bedroom window, I could see the fear, pain, frustration, and anger play out over the faces of our

See PROCTOR, A9

National nursing shortage a bad diagnosis for Black patients

It widens healthcare gap

By Jennifer Porter Gore Word In Black

Burned out after the COVID-19 pandemic and frustrated with systemic problems in healthcare, nurses in the U.S. are leaving the medical profession in droves, a quiet exodus that some are calling a national crisis.

But — as usual — a crisis in America is a catastrophe for Black America. Experts say the situation will exacerbate the lack of access to care for communities of color, increase the time it will take to get routine as well as urgent or specialized medical attention and further widen the health gap between Black and white patients. The situation is considered

so dire that the White House last August announced it had earmarked some $100 million through the Department of Health and Human Services to quickly grow the nation’s corps of nurses. At the same time, colleges, universities and teaching hospitals that specialize in nurse training are offering accelerated programs to get caregivers on the job as soon as possible.

“Nurses are an essential part of our nation’s health care system,” HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra said in a statement rolling out the Grow the Nursing Workforce grant program. “Now more than ever, we need to dou-

See NURSES, A9

Pandemic burnout, high caseloads and relatively low pay has nurses heading for the exit — and driving down health outcomes for Black patients.

Affinia Healthcare VP/COO Takisha Lovelace (left) displays the artwork of 9-year-old artist Symone Chatman who is at the Affinia Healthcare Biddle location with her parents Ceairia Perry-Chatman and Orlando Chatman.

Photo courtesy of Affinia

Photo courtesy of Word In Black

Dr. Dwayne Proctor

Proctor

Continued from A8

neighbors. I watched our city burn. I also saw Dad talking to our neighbors, validating their suffering, and guiding them to go home and stay safe.

Those moments shaped me. As I got older, I was drawn to movements for equality, liberation, and justice. I have marched with fellow students to dismantle apartheid and the NAACP over stop-and-frisk policies (never dreaming I’d one day chair the NAACP Foundation Board). I discovered that when I see people committed to meaningful change, that is where I want to be.

All of this came back to me as I watched the footage coming out of Ferguson. I lived in Princeton, New Jersey, working as the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) president’s senior adviser on health equity. At that point, I had been at RWJF for more than a decade doing impactful work with my team. I could not have predicted that these unfolding events would draw me to St. Louis.

Dr. Bob Hughes, thenCEO of the Foundation, connected me with Rev. Starsky Wilson. and Gov. Jay Nixon. They wanted to set up a commission to investigate the root causes of unrest and find a way forward for the region.

That led to grant funding from RWJF to the United Way of Greater St. Louis, which helped to create the Ferguson Commission’s Playbook. RWJF dually intended

Artist

Continued from A8

Chatman provided Affinia Healthcare with nine original pieces and hopes her artwork inspires patients and staff members who see them.

“I want those who view my work to feel excited about what they see,” said Chatman.

The artwork will be placed in the Child Development Center at Biddle, and common areas at the Lemp Avenue and Ferguson sites.

Nurses

Continued from A8

ble down on our investments in nurses who care for communities across the country.”

Deborah Trautman, president and CEO of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, said that generating “strong interest in nursing careers, and training new nurses” are top priorities for stakeholders like her organization.

“Maintaining a healthy supply of practice-ready nurses is critical to ensuring access to essential patient care services and protecting the nation’s health,” she said in April.

Experts say the overall nurse shortage stems from a combination of factors — chiefly, the COVID-19 pandemic, which called on nurses to work long hours in a highly-charged, uncertain environment. But others point to more mundane, long-term issues frustrating the workforce: poor working conditions, relatively low

to provide a guide for St. Louis and assist the many other communities that were likely to confront community racial trauma in the future. And indeed, leaders in Baton Rouge, Dallas, and other places found the Playbook useful. This resource, born from sorrow and determination, helped people across the country to heal. At the same time, activists committed to making life better for Black people locally and nationally found their voices and demanded justice. The

According to the National Institutes of Health, art has been proven to be an invaluable resource for pediatric medical facilities. Fun designs and bright colors can help ease children’s fears of being in an unfamiliar building by creating a warm and comforting place of healing. Art plays a key environmental attribute to children’s hospital experience.

This includes providing a source of visual entertainment, distraction, and engagement, assisting children in maintaining a positive frame of mind, reduc-

pay, high caseloads and lack of support from hospital management.

For Black nurses, the issues also include racial bias on the job. Black Nurses are almost twice as likely to report racism on the job — bigotry, slurs, a patient’s refusal of treatment — than white nurses.

Black nurses matter

According to data from the US Chamber of Commerce, there are only nine registered nurses on average for every 1,000 people, according to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. And only 6.7% of registered nurses are Black, even though Black people make up around 13% of the U.S. population.

Black nurses matter because multiple studies confirm Black patients are more likely to seek out care, follow instructions and have better overall health outcomes if their caregiver looks like them. Research shows that patients who are of

response to Brown’s death inspired everyday people to work for change, abroad and at home. It also highlighted the need for data that could help us effectively change systems. That led The Washington Post to create a police shootings database, the first of its kind. I mention this because we know that when society doesn’t measure something, we don’t value it. If we don’t understand how systems and structures create barriers that make it harder to live our healthiest lives, we

ing stress and improving clinical outcomes.

Affinia Urgent Care carries a new name

Affinia Healthcare Urgent Care is celebrating its 10th anniversary, and it continues to evolve.

The facility is reemerging as Affinia Healthcare Convenience Care, a new name and still offering high-quality care for patients.

Affinia Healthcare has provided urgent care services at its 2220 Lemp Avenue location since 2014. Urgent care services

can’t dismantle them.

From afar, I watched the region stand up and defend Brown’s humanity. When I got the opportunity to succeed Dr. Hughes at the helm of Missouri Foundation for Health, I knew my place was here. During the past three years, I’ve come to understand that the national narrative about St. Louis is a tiny part of the region’s tapestry. We have worldclass culture, arts, music, and history. We have committed leaders across many sectors dedicated to

allow patients to see a healthcare professional for immediate care, and sometimes, avoiding a trip to the emergency room.

“With the new name, we want to remind patients of the benefits of coming to Convenience Care,” said Jocelyn Hawthorne, assistant vice president, Health Center operations.

“This is an opportunity for our patients to receive high-quality, immediate care at our renovated Lemp Avenue location, and maybe save them time and money they would spend at the emergency room.”

the same race as their healthcare provider have better outcomes. These improvements range from significant declines in Black infant mortality and an approximately 19% drop in mortality rates for Black men.

Black patients and patients of color also were more likely to get preventative care when their clinician shares

their racial background. And 83% of Black mental health providers believe racial concordance is important to patient outcomes, according to the Journal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities. But nurses are heading for the exits in droves.

A 2022 national workforce survey of almost 335,000 registered nurses, licensed practical nurses,

helping people live their healthiest lives. I see the kind of Black pride and joy that says, “We have the power to change our conditions,” and inspires people to celebrate each day while working for a better future.

St. Louis is not perfect – no place is. The Ferguson Uprising reminded us that we can conquer divisions of race, geography, politics, and economic status and embrace our shared humanity. We all thrive when we respect community wisdom and

Affinia Healthcare Convenience Care is staffed by physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses and other healthcare professionals.

The services offered include Screenings & physical exams (e.g., school, sports, employment, adoption); immunizations/vaccinations; cold & flu symptoms/sore throat; allergies; minor skin rashes/infections; minor cuts, burns, bites, & stings; sprains & strains; nausea; asthma/COPD; pregnancy testing and STI testing & treatment.

The Convenience Care

and licensed vocational nurses found that more than 25% of them were planning to leave the profession by 2027, through retirements as well as resignations, according to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that between 2022 and 2032 the country will see 193,100 openings for registered nurses each year. But the actual workforce, according to the BLS, will likely increase by 177,400 each year.

However, there was one bright spot amid all the data: Historically Black Colleges and Universities are overperforming when it comes to nursing education. Only 2% of all colleges and universities are HBCUs but as of 2017 they had graduated almost 7% of nursing-school graduates.

And a wealth of research shows the presence of Black nurses helps decrease health disparities. When patients and clinicians share the same racial or ethnic background Black infant

use it to build transformational opportunities. We’re still learning from the legacy of Brown’s death, and our lessons – like so much of Missouri’s history – are the lessons of America. We ignore them at our peril. This article was originally published by the St. Louis Business Journal. It has been republished with permission. Dwayne Proctor is Missouri Foundation for Health president and CEO.

copay starts at $75.

Affinia Healthcare accepts Medicaid, Medicare, and most private insurances. Convenience Care offers a sliding fee scale to patients who meet certain income requirements. Patients who apply and are eligible will pay a discounted fee. Proof of income is required. Payments are due at the time of service. The Affinia Healthcare Convenience Care is open at 2220 Lemp Ave., 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Walk-ins are welcome.

mortality declines significantly and for Black men mortality can drop by as much as 19%.

Black patients are also more likely to pursue preventative care when their healthcare provider is Black. And a whopping 83% of Black mental health providers say this racial concordance is important to care outcomes. Yet, more than 40% of nurses said they experienced racism or discrimination while in nursing school, with nearly 80% of nurses calling for more diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) training in nursing education, according to a 2023 Robert Wood Johnson survey and interviews of nearly 1,000 nurses.

A combined 44% of respondents reported that racism or discrimination was part of their nursing school’s culture to some extent. Black Nurses are almost twice as likely to report racism on the job — bigotry, slurs, a patient’s refusal of treatment from *them* than white nurses.

A memorial for Michael Brown, Jr. on the site where he was killed by a former Ferguson police officer Darren Wilson, was placed on Canfield Drive in Ferguson, Missouri on Friday, August 9, 2024.

Photo by Bill Greenblatt / St. Louis American

Cbabi B. Artist & St. Louis Resident

Black-owned firms part of first Schnucks Springboard class

By Alvin A. Reid St. Louis American

Terry Payton and EJ Billups crafted Phathead BBQ Sauce in a home kitchen with a goal of “providing the best possible BBQ sauce.”

They then began selling the sauce from their homes, front yards and other community venues.

“Through hard work and determination, we’ve grown our product line to include six delicious flavors. Phathead BBQ Sauce “is now in backyards and grocery stores all over the Madison County Area,” according to a statement by the entrepreneurs.

The owners said wanting to make their family proud is what pushes them to the limits, but their love for cooking and sharing a delicious BBQ with friends is what drives them to deliver the best sauce any family can find.

“If you try it, you will buy it,” they say. Phathead, which calls Bethalto, Illinois home, could soon possibly be on the shelves of Schnucks Markets throughout the region because it is a member of the inaugural group of 10 businesses in Schnucks Springboard –a business accelerator designed to provide education, resources and access to diverse-owned businesses.

The companies will receive business development classes at Schnucks’ St. Louis headquarters, networking opportunities, $5,000 of equity-free funding and, if they meet food safety, insurance and certification requirement, an in-store product trial at select Schnucks stores in 2025.

Joining Phathead BBQ Sauce are Bella’s Pet Products; D.R.E.A.M. Pet Food; Hugo Coffee Roasters; Mickey’s Popcorn; MOTASTE; Pop Pop Hurray; Sandwich Goat

Seasonings; Show Me the World; and YÜJ Granola.

Tony Davis, Pop Pop Hurray owner, said in a December 2021 St. Louis American article he opened his first brick-and-mortar store in the heart of Ferguson during the pandemic.

“We knew we wanted to put our first store in North County, in the community. Because it’s a family-friendly establishment, and it’s not many of those around.”

Davis visited popcorn shops throughout the nation to sample their wares and noticed “most lacked flavor options and offered very little in the form of customer experience.”

He decided to combine gourmet popcorn with the topping customization options of an ice cream shop. His success can be measured in square feet – he opened a second location in St. Charles.

See SCHNUCKS, B2

Dellwood celebrates new plaza a decade after unrest

By Alvin A. Reid

St. Louis American

Ten years ago, Reggie Jones watched Juanita’s Fashions R Boutique at 9844 West Florissant Avenue burn to the ground during the unrest that followed the police killing of Michael Brown Jr. in neighboring Ferguson.

Jones, who now is mayor of Dellwood, said that business has reopened in another location, and the W. Florissant Avenue Corridor also continues to rebound.

“That business rose from the ashes like a phoenix. Today, we rise,” said Jones while speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for the $8.5 million Urban League Plaza.

The plaza will transform a lot that has been empty for a decade into a 16,000-square-foot multi-use center.

Michael P. McMillan, Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis president and CEO, said the project would not happen without “the enormous generosity of St. Louis, St. louis County, the state, federal support and philanthropy.”

“All the work is going toward a better future.”

be

From left, State Rep. Yolanda Henderson, County Executive Dr. Sam Page, Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis President and CEO Michael P. McMillan and Dellwood Mayor Reggie Jones were among the dignitaries to break ground for the Urban Lague Plaza on August 9, 2024, on West Florissant Avenue. The $8.5 million plaza is scheduled to open in summer 2025.

Wilson elected new R.W. Johnson chair

The Rev. Dr. Starsky Wilson, Children’s Defense Fund president and CEO, has been voted the chairelect of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation’s Board of Trustees. Wilson, former Deaconess Foundation CEO and co-chair the Ferguson Commission, will become the first Black person and faith leader to serve as board chair for RWJF in its 52-year history. RWJF annually generates grants of about $400 million to organizations that are committed to advancing health equity in America.

St. Louis Equity Fund welcomes Kilcrease

Carrie Kilcrease

Carrie Kilcrease has joined the St. Louis Equity Fund, Inc. as an accounting specialist. She brings experience in real estate accounting to the organization, and her goal is to enhance the financial operations and contribute to the continued success and growth of SLEFI. Her diverse educational background and extensive professional experience make her a versatile and knowledgeable asset in the field of accounting.

Lennel Hunter has been hired by Clayco as the firm’s VDC (Virtual Design and Construction) director. With nearly 20 years of experience and an undergraduate degree from Washington University St. Louis, Hunter will ensure consistent BIM (Building Information Modeling) coordination practices across all projects. He will lead a team of VDC engineers and managers and be accountable for establishing team consensus and upholding departmental BIM processes.

KIPP Wisdom Academy teachers Sonya Taylor and Erica Williams have been named winners of the 2024 Harriett Ball Excellence in Teaching Award. They are among 10 educators nationwide recognized for their exemplary work in the classroom and will each receive $10,000. Taylor is a kindergarten lead teacher and Williams is a third-grade lead teacher. Teachers are selected based on their record of improving student achievement, their school and classroom leadership, and their commitment to preparing all students with the skills and confidence to pursue the future paths they choose, including college and careers.

Starsky Wilson

First Bank will anchor the plaza, and will feature a sit-down restaurant, banquet reception facilities and commercial bays. It was announced during the ceremony that Xavier Tipler and Edgar Everett, co-owners of Proficient Chiropractic, will

opening an office in the plaza. McMillan said the plaza, which is scheduled to open in a year, can promote economic growth, create jobs, and foster

EJ Billups and Terry Payton began cooking Phathead BBQ Sauce in their kitchens and selling it in front yards. It is now sold throughout Madison County, Illinois and the business is included with nine others in the inaugural Schnucks Springboard class.

Photo courtesy of Phathead BBQ Sauce

Photo by Alvin A. Reid / St. Louis American

Lennel Hunter joins Clayco as VDC director

Lennel Hunter

Erica Williams

KIPP Academy teachers receive national honor

Sonya Taylor

Schnucks

Continued from B1

Diverse-owned is defined as at least 51% owned, operated and managed by a U.S. citizen or legal U.S. resident that is a member of one or more of the following groups: Woman, Disabled, Black American, Asian American/Pacific Islander, Native American, Hispanic American, LGBT and/or U.S. Military Veteran.

The 10 companies were selected in partnership with Mid-States Minority Supplier Development Council based on their business stability, incremental sales opportunity, strategic vision and corporate responsibility.

“Using our resources and relationships, we honor our responsibility to strive for equity for not only our teammates and customers but also for our many diverse-owned suppliers,” said Adrian Moore, Schnucks senior director of merchandising enablement & supplier

Plaza

Continued from B1 entrepreneurial and community endeavors.

“The Urban League Plaza is a testament to our unwavering commitment to driving positive change and providing opportunities for economic development and social cohesion in North St. Louis County,” he said.

Dr. Sam Page, St. Louis County executive, said the killing of Michael Brown and the Ferguson Uprising “placed an international spotlight on our region.”

“Our issues were not unique. But Ferguson

diversity.

“We look forward to working with the proprietors of these companies and to providing the inside knowledge and tools that can help them take their products and sales to the

showed that that things were overdue for reform,” he said.

“Today, we celebrate hopes and dreams.”

More than 250 businesses, mostly along West Florissant Ave., were looted, burned, damaged or closed for a brief period. Some never reopened, leaving vacant and derelict commercial buildings.

The St. Louis Economic Development Partnership (SLEDP) partnered with the Urban League and the St. Louis Promise Zone, a program that partners with local leaders to give communities tools to rebuild and revitalize.

next level.”

Demetrius Glover, MidStates MSDC president and CEO, said when the program was announced in April, “Minority-owned entities within the MidStates MSDC network

“The St. Louis Promise Zone is enthusiastic about supporting another anchor development along the West Florissant corridor,” Maude Trost, SLEDP community investment project manager said in a release.

“Urban League Plaza will provide critical services the community has called for. This development will also complement the forthcoming West Florissant Great Streets Project.”

Jason Hall, Greater St. Louis Inc, president, said the plaza opening in north St. Louis County is essential to the region’s improving job market.

“Inclusive growth has

support over 26,000 jobs throughout eastern Missouri.’

“Our partnership with Schnucks will not only create economic opportunities but also build a legacy of success that

to be the north star of our economic future,” he said.

“We must do well by these businesses and do well by this community. Regardless of race or zip code, people deserve the opportunity to thrive.’

State Sens. Karla May and Brian Williams shared respective messages of hope for Dellwood, Ferguson and north county.

“These are the seeds that need to happen,” May said of the plaza and its future businesses.

“We cannot do this independently of each other. We must invest in our community.”

Williams said the plaza “will help people right

munity support for organizations that promote racial equity, including the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis. Last year, the Urban League honored Schnucks with the Civic Leadership Award for these efforts. Schnucks was also recently named one of America’s Greatest Workplaces for Diversity 2024 by Newsweek

“Our diversity, equity and inclusion efforts are more than just words on paper. It’s how we celebrate our differences and learn from each other’s experiences and how we serve the numerous communities in which we operate,” said Schnucks Senior Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Emma Lumpkins after receiving the Newsweek award

extends beyond business transactions.”

In 2020, Schnucks launched a diversity, equity and inclusion plan, Unity Is Power, which launched efforts to increase focused, com-

here and beyond.’

“It will create jobs and people can find the help that they deserve.”

State Rep. Yolanda Henderson, who had once lived in the same apartment complex as Michael Brown, said she was returning from a backto-school jamboree when she learned of his killing.

“A lot of this was burned,” she said while looking toward W. Florissant. “But look at us now.”

Stacy Clay, First Bank senior vice president and director of community affairs, said her bank’s mission is to serve all communities “from Lake St. Louis to north St.

“It’s also nourishing people’s lives by providing a welcoming work environment to our nearly 12,000 teammates whose efforts make it possible for our customers to feed their families.”

Louis to north St. Louis County.”

“The plaza’s retail and commercial bays will become a community gathering place.’

Emerson provided an initial donation of $500,000 to purchase the site and Akberet Boykin Farr said the firm is “proud to join other partners in seeing it come to pass.” She ended the ceremony as dignitaries prepared to throw shovels of dirt by quoting Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

“We must accept finite disappointment. But we must never lose infinite hope.”

Participants With Heart Failure Are Needed for a Research Study!

The purpose of the study is to look at the impact of potassium nitrate (KNO3) on exercise performance in patients with heart failure and to see if it improves physical exercise capacity.

1.Participants must be 18 to 80 years old 2.Participants must have diagnosis of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction

Participation includes 3 study visits that will take up to 5 hours each. Participants will be randomized to receive either KNO3 or placebo (in a gelcap). Up to $400.00 is provided. Contact 314-996-3847 or dhaley@wustl.edu for more information.

Pop Pop Hurray popcorn founder Tony Davis in his Ferguson, Mo. location Monday, Dec. 13, 2021.

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American

n “I quite literally love it here.”

– USA women’s rugby player Ariana Ramsey extoling the virtues of free healthcare in Paris

InSIdE SportS

By Earl Austin Jr.

My favorite Olympic moments

The games of the 33rd Olympiad in Paris have ended and I’m already missing the non-stop action. Being an avid fan of the Summer Olympics since I was seven, I look forward to this great spectacle. Now, it is time to look back at my favorite moments.

Of course, I have to start with St. Louis athletes. It was special to see Napheesa Collier and Jayson Tatum pick up their respective second gold medals in basketball. Collier helped the USA women to an eighth consecutive gold medal and extend an incredible 61-game winning streak in the Olympic games. She contributed seven points and 11 rebounds in the gold-medal game against France.

Tatum’s best outing of the Olympics was his 10-point, 10-rebound performance against Puerto Rico in pool play. These two young stars have represented our city in the best way.

My top thrill came in the men’s 4x400 meter relay when the anchor leg came down to a duel between gold medalists American Rai Benjamin and LetsileTebogo of Botswana. Benjamin won the 400-meter hurdles while Tebogo won the 200-meter dash. It was an incredible fight to the finish as Tebogo chased Benjamin all around the track, but Benjamin was able to hold him off to win the gold and set a new

American record in the process. Another Show-Me State product who stood tall was Kansas City native Quincy Hall in the men’s 400meter dash. The former Raytown South standout staged one of the most epic comebacks in the history of the event as he passed four runners down the final straight-away to snatch the gold medal. It was an incredible show of heart and determination in that final 100 meters.

American Sydney McLaughlin Levrone showed once again why she is the queen on track and field with another world-record setting performance in the women’s 400-meter hurdles. In what was supposed to be a showdown against Dutch star Femke Bol, McLaughlin turned the race into a rout as she repeated as a gold medalist and set a new world mark of 50.37 seconds. She also ran in the 4x400-meter

relay and dropped a 47.71 on the second leg to put the race away for the USA.

American gymnastic icon Simone Biles put on another legendary performance in leading the USA to the gold medal in the team competition. She also won the gold in the individual all-around competition. Her floor routine is indeed a sight to behold. Incredible.

The men’s 100-meter dash final was one for the ages as American Noah

SportS EyE

With Alvin A. Reid

Lyles staged his final surge to win the gold medal in a personal best time of 9.79 seconds. It was also one of the fastest 100-meter finals in Olympic history as it became the first time that all eight finalists ran under 10 seconds in a race that was not wind-aided.

Steph Curry’s final flurry in the last three minutes of the men’s basketball gold medal game will not only go down in Olympic folklore, but basketball folklore as well. With the

USA clinging on to a three point lead against France with three minutes left, Steph made four consecutive 3-pointers in spectacular fashion to hold off the French and give the USA the gold medal.

American sprinter Gabby Thomas emerged as a superstar after winning three gold medals in track and field. She won the gold medal in the 200meter dash and added gold medals in the 4x100- and 4x400-meter relays.

The performance of the American men’s distance runners is one of the biggest stories in track and field. The distance runners showed up and showed out in Paris. Cole Hocker won the gold medal in the 1,500-meter run while Yared Nuguse took the bronze. Grant Fisher won the bronze in both the 5,000 and 10,000-meters while Kenneth Rooks won silver in the 3,000-meter steeplechase.

The end of the women’s rugby bronze medal match between the USA and Australia was breathtaking. Australia took the lead in the final seconds, but American Spiff Sedrick scored on the final play of the game in spectacular walk-off fashion to give the USA a 14-12 a win and its first medal in 100 years. That play had me jumping up and down in my seat.

Watching the love affair between the French people and their star swimmer Leon Marchand, who won four gold medals. The best moment came in the 400-meter IM during the breaststroke leg when the partisan crowd chanted with each Marchand stroke. It was electrifying to watch on television.

‘Triple Espresso’ is USWNT’s magical mocha

My Saturday’s often fall into a routine.

Walk Bella, the wonderful dog my wife rescued in December last year. Mow, weed or some house thing. Go to Soulard Market. Rest of day.

This past Saturday included a ‘mustdo’ assignment.

The United States Women’s National Soccer Team had my undivided attention for just over two hours.

to a gold medal. Rodman tallied a sensational goal in extra time to propel the US past Japan 1-0 in a quarterfinal contest.

The USA had not won an Olympics gold medal since 2012, and the 2024 squad was determined to erase the bitter memory of a semifinal loss to Brazil in Japan in 2021. The team lost in the quarterfinals in Brazil in 2016.

A tribute to diversity, this American team has seven players of color. It has players who are gay, it has players from both coasts and the Midwest.

Coach Emma Hayes was born in England, but praise America “for making me.”

Of those players of colors, the team’s starting forwards Mallory Swanson, Trinity Rodman and Sophia Smith stood tall and carried their team

Smith followed in a tense semifinal game against Germany with a spectacular goal in extra time, giving America another 1-0 victory. Swanson’s golden effort at the 57-minute mark of the final game gave the US a 1-0 lead which it did not relinquish. Had it not been for goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher’s brilliant one-handed save on a Brazilian header in the fourth minute of stoppage play, the US could have been in an extra time session again. Naeher, 36, is of German, English, and French-Canadian ancestry.

“I think this group really just came together from the beginning of our pregame to know, we’ve grown so much,” Swanson said following the emotional win.

conference in Paris on Thursday.

Following the semifinal victory, Smith praised her coach in succinct style.

“We’re a different team,” she said. ESPN reported that Smith “encouraged all three players to express themselves, to experiment with their collaboration, offering a freedom within their given responsibilities that resonated.”

It shows in their play, and the dynamic show should continue for years.

The Reid Roundup

Trinity Rodman announced on TODAY last Thursday the US trio of women’s soccer stars is adopting the name ‘Triple Espresso.’ I like it…

tional for others as well as myself, but it was just everything. I’m so happy.”

The trio of stars shed tears after the final whistle.

“I didn’t think I was gonna cry,” said Rodman. “To be able to hug all my teammates. I was emo-

“That’s really cool to me, seeing that on and off the field. I think most importantly, you’re probably hearing it, we’re playing with joy. We’re having so much fun. I’m just so happy.”

The women have also become friends during the past two years of international competition.

“We’re just so dynamic, we’re so fluid,” Smith told media members at a press

Sophia Smith and her US teammates won the gold medal on her 24th birthday… MAGA went 0-for3 in its Paris Olympics sports hate campaign. The USA women’s and men’s basketball teams won gold medals, as did the US women’s soccer team. While it is not of her doing, MAGA darling Caitlin Clark was not on the victorious women’s team, rubbing salt into the

MAGA wound…STL native Jayson Tatum saw limited playing time during the Paris Olympics with the US men’s basketball team but said it would not impact his decision on whether to play in 2028 in L.A….LeBron James was named Olympics men’s basketball MVP but Steph Curry’s clutch three-point shooting during the gold medal victory against France gave me goose bumps… Carl Lewis, arguably America’s greatest sprinter, is fed up with the USA 4-by-100 relay disasters. The latest flub led to a Paris Olympics disqualification. “It is time to blow up the system. It is clear that everyone at USATF is more concerned with relationships than winning,” the 63-year-old Lewis, who was in Paris, said on X… Chesterfield Sports Complex has been renamed The Beal Center. Phoenix Suns star Bradley Beal acquired naming rights. The U16 Bradley Beal Elite Team, which practices at the facility, recently won the Nike Elite Basketball League’s Peach Jam tournament.

Earl Austin Jr.

Alvin A. Reid

Napheesa Collier (right) is presented with the Olympic Gold Medal, along with teammates Breanna Stewart (middle) and A’ja Wilson (left) after the U.S. Women’s Basketball team defeated France in Paris on Sunday, Aug. 11, 2024.

Photo courtesy of NBC

Photo courtesy of USWNT Instagram

Trinity Rodman, Sophia Smith and Mallory Swanson comprise ‘Triple Espresso’.

UMSL, St. Louis Police partner for tuition reimbursement

UMSL has finalized a new agreement with the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department under which the department will cover 100% of the cost of tuition for part-time learners after reimbursement and an UMSL Education Partnership discount.

As part of the three-year agreement, the St. Louis Police Foundation will also provide each student a $500 stipend each year to use toward the cost of learning materials.

That support will allow commissioned officers to pursue industry relevant degree and certificate programs that will help them grow in their careers.

“We are committed to partnering with commissioned officers to provide them with the knowledge they need to achieve their educational and professional goals, thereby strengthening the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department in the process,” said Reggie Hill UMSL’s vice chancellor for strategic enrollment and career advancement, who led efforts to build the partnership that was signed at a ceremony at the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department Headquarters.

“We recognize that officers need to continually add new skills to advance in their careers. We offer a

range of options, including undergraduate and graduate degree and certificate programs, to help them grow within the department.”

Under the agreement, officers will be able to pursue bachelor’s and master’s degrees in everything from criminology and criminal justice to business, communication, computer science, cybersecurity, political science and public policy, psychology, social work and more.

The university also has certificate programs in areas such as data science, computer programming, digital and social media marketing, children’s advocacy studies, trauma studies and many others.

Participants will also receive 20% off UMSL Advanced Workforce Center Skills Lab non-credit professional development courses and certificates.

“This partnership is another tool to help us draw potential recruits to SLMPD but allows current officers to continue their education which will broaden their perspective in day-to-day work,” St. Louis Metropolitan Police Comissioner Robert Tracy said.

“Pursuing higher education will also improve qualifications during the promotional process as we build officers to become law enforcement leaders for our next generation.”

Enterprise University set to begin fall courses

Enterprise Bank & Trust has launched the fall semester of Enterprise University, its innovative series of business courses designed to help professionals better their businesses and careers. The live, interactive webinars are available at no cost to attendees.

Classes will take place between Sept. 10 and Nov. 21. The 90-minute classes are taught by experts who offer actionable strategies and ideas that teams can implement right away to stay ahead in a competitive and dynamic business environment.

In addition to fall programming, select Enterprise University courses from previous semesters are available on demand on the Enterprise University website.

To view the coursebook ad register, please visit

fall courses include:

and

Photo by Derik Holtmann / UM-St. Louis

(From left) St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department Academy Director Clarence Hines, Commissioner Robert Tracy, University of Missouri–St. Louis Chancellor

Kristin Sobolik and Vice Chancellor for Strategic Enrollment and Career Advancement Reggie Hill met at the police department’s downtown headquarters to finalize a new educational partnership agreement. It will support commissioned officers as they pursue degrees or certificates industry relevant areas through the university.

Building dreams

Frizz Fest celebrates St. Louis artists

By Ashley Winters

The St. Louis American

The 7th Annual Frizz Fest behindthe-scenes art installations with local creatives is happening on Aug. 17-18 at 3529 Broadway. The open call for St. Louis artists to create installations to be displayed at Frizz Fest drew 50 submissions, but only a few were chosen. Dream Builders 4 Equity provided the wooden installations the artists will use to showcase their skills.

“We love Dream Builders 4 Equity and are truly grateful for our partnership,” said Leslie Hughes, founder and CEO of Frizz Fest Natural Beauty Festival. “This is our second year partnering with them. They are also allowing us to utilize their space and storage and will be assisting with delivering and setting up the installations at Frizz Fest.”

Narrowing the choices down to three artists, each of whom received stipends for materials and compensation, was extremely difficult, Hughes said. Having so many submissions almost made her regret having an artist call because there were so many choices to consider. That amazing interest from local artists, however, also served as affirmation.

“We have such great talent here in St. Louis and artists of all types, that we wanted to make sure to do our part in highlighting them,” Hughes said. She enjoyed seeing how the creatives put their creative spin on the suggested themes

Living It

for the artwork and how they interpreted Frizz Fest putting those ideas into concepts and designs.

“It’s a great opportunity for the artists to have their pieces on display at the festival, but it’s also an opportunity for us to enhance and activate the spaces in such a beautiful and authentic way,” she said.

Hughes chose local artists ColorTripz Creative, K.K3MP, and Destiney Angelique. Describing Destiney Angelique, Hughes said that the artist is

a multifaceted craftswoman who specializes in woodwork, art installation, home decor, and applied art. In her submission, Destiney Angelique, utilized a mix of materials and each component was very intentional and tied into the mission of Frizz Fest. Her art includes a flower with pedals made of satin bonnet fabric to symbolize the protective layer of the

See Frizz, C3

Liberation through art

‘Sing Sing’ demonstrates the power of creative expression

By Kenya Vaughn The St. Louis American

Although no one in the film hatches an elaborate plan to break beyond prison walls, “Sing Sing” is in its own way about an escape.

Director Greg Kwedar’s potential awards season favorite starring Academy Award nominee Colman Domingo – which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival last year –opens in theatres nationwide on Friday, August 16.

A maximum security prison with the generational reputation as one of the most dangerous correctional facilities on the planet serves as the setting for a film that tenderly reveals the arts as an avenue for healing and redemption.

“Sing Sing” is based on the real-life experiences of an inmate theater troupe called Rehabilitation Through the Arts as featured in the Esquire article “The Sing Sing Follies” by John H. Richardson and

“He’s our cousin. Not a lot of people know that.”

- Janet Jackson sharing that she and Stevie Wonder are related

Charles Reese celebrates 100 years of James Baldwin

By Miko Lyric Los Angeles Sentinel

On August 2, 1924, iconic American writer and civil rights activist James Baldwin was born. Worldwide, people are gathering and creating to commemorate the occasion.

Charles Reese, an actor, writer, and speaker, has celebrated by creating “James Baldwin & Me: A Centennial Tribute,” a spoken word album with perspectives interwoven between Reese, Baldwin, and Howard B. Simon.

Simon wrote the Off-Broadway show “James Baldwin: A Soul on Fire,” in which Reese starred in the principal role as Baldwin.

n Each of the poems on the album paints a picture of an instance in James Baldwin’s life.

In an interview with the Los Angeles Sentinel, Reese described himself as a cultural architect of the legacy of Baldwin using his gifts to bring people into Baldwin’s world. Through this work of studying, embodying and performing Baldwin globally, Reese has been a significant force deepening various communities’ understanding of and relationship to Baldwin.

The entire album was recorded in Los Angeles, specifically at Moon Global Studios in Inglewood.

“I started in March [of 2024 by getting the poems together…the poems were by my late friend and playwright, Howard B. Simon. I call the book of poems he left behind ‘The Purple Book.’ I chose the poems I wanted to use from that purple journal, then, I started adding narratives,” Reese explained.

When choosing which poems he would use for the album, he remarked, “It didn’t take me a long time. I had been [performing] some of the poetry, so there were some pieces I already knew that felt right.”

RTA’s original production of Breakin’

The Mummy’s Code by Brent Buell.

The mastermind of the escape at the core of “Sing Sing” is not an evil genius.

John “Divine G” Whitfield is a man

brave enough to fully lean into his artistic inclinations in an environment where the slightest display of vulnerability could

Each of the poems on the album paints a picture of an instance in James Baldwin’s life. “The song, ‘A-Train’ references his book ‘Go Tell It on the Mountain’ going from a young preacher to being out in the world,” Reese offered. “‘The Eve of Eviction’ represents if Baldwin was alive today, he would be talking about gentrification. But he also left Harlem to be in Paris, and he was always in situations where he was put out

See Baldwin, C3

See Sing, C3

Photo Courtesy of frizzyBynature.com

Torrie Danielle modeling for the hair show at Frizz Fest 2023

‘Sing Sing’ starring Academy Award nominee Colman Domingo which is based on the real-life experiences of a prison theater troupe opens in theaters nationwide on Friday, August 16.

CONCERTS AND LIVE SHOWS

Miles Davis is in the building

8/15/2024 5:00 pm

A fictitious, musical dramedy, inspired by the school shooting at CVPA High School in St. Louis, MO in 2022. Written and directed by Shawntay Nicole Vaughn. Zack Theatre

3224 Locust St.

St. Louis, MO

$16.00

PJ Morton - Cape Town to Cairo Tour

8/21/2024 8:00 p.m.

The Pageant

6161 Delmar Blvd

St. Louis, MO

$39.50 - $79.50

UniverSoul Circus

8/16/2024 7:00 p.m.

8/17/2024 12:00 p.m.

8/17/2024 7:30 p.m.

8/18/2024 12:00 p.m.

8/18/2024 3:00 p.m.

8/18/2024 6:30 p.m.

8/22/2024 7:00 p.m.

8/23/2024 7:00 p.m.

8/25/2024 12:00 p.m.

8/25/2024 3:00 p.m.

8/25/2024 6:30 p.m.

1111 N. Broadway

St. Louis, MO

$27.50 - $53.00

When Doves Cry - The Prince Tribute Show

8/17/2024 8:00 p.m.

Sheldon Concert Hall and Art Galleries

3648 Washington Blvd

St. Louis, MO

$51.00

We On Blast Concert & Community Pre-Show

8/24/2024 5:00 p.m.

Christian Hip Hop Concert

The Advancing Church

4152 Washington Blvd.

St. Louis, MO

$0.00 - $20.00

St. Louis Improv Showcase

8/24/2024 8:00 p.m.

Delmar Hall

6133 Delmar Blvd

St. Louis, MO

$25.00

STL Sites & Sounds

8/21/2024 8:00 p.m. The Pageant 6161 Delmar Blvd. St. Louis, MO

$0.00 - $25.00

STL Jazz Fest

FAIRS FESTIVALS

Sauce Magazine Food Truck Friday 8/16/2024 4:00 p.m. Tower Grove Park 4257 Northeast Drive St. Louis, MO

Festival of Nations 2024

8/25/2024 8:00 p.m.

A celebration of music, flavors, art and culture from around the world at the annual Festival of Nations Tower Grove Park 4257 Northeast Drive St. Louis, MO

NIGHTLIFE

Gasolina: Reggaetón Party (21+ Only)

8/17/2024 8:00 p.m. The Pageant 6161 Delmar Blvd St. Louis, MO

8/23/2024 7:00 p.m.

Scheduled to perform on Friday, August 23, 2024: Eric Marienthal Band featuring Niki Haris, the Comedy of Alonzo Bodden and Gregory Porter The Factory 17105 North Outer 40 Road

St. Louis, MO

St. Louis, MO

$60.00 - $250.00

ART ACTIVITIES, EXHIBITS AND MUSEUMS

The Legacy of Prejudice at the 1904 World’s Fair 8/15/2024 5:00 p.m.

Missouri History Museum 5700 Lindell Blvd St. Louis, MO Free

‘Lift Every Voice’ Exhibit Opening 8/17/2024 6:00 p.m.

The Griot Museum of Black History 2505 St Louis Ave St. Louis, MO $10.00

Family Sunday 8/18/2024 1:00 p.m. 8/25/2024 1:00 p.m. Saint Louis Art Museum One Fine Arts Drive St. Louis, MO Free

Family SundaySharing St. Louis Stories 8/18/2024 1:00 p.m.

The Work of Art: The Federal Art Project, 1935-1943. Saint Louis Art Museum One Fine Arts Drive St. Louis, MO

Drop-in Collection Tour: The World’s Fair and the Olympics 8/23/2024 1:00 p.m.

As local celebrations commemorate the 120th anniversary of the 1904 World’s Fair and Olympics in St. Louis.

Saint Louis Art Museum 1 Fine Arts Dr. St. Louis, MO COMMUNITY

Brownpreneurs Entrepreneurship Academy (BEA) 8/17/2024 11:00 a.m. 8/24/2024 11:00 a.m.

Networking, and learning Interactive workshops, hear from successful entrepreneurs, and

PJ Morton - Cape Town to Cairo Tour

Frizz

Continued from C1

hair, which surrounds the middle of the flower and is created with faux textured hair - representing the Black woman’s crown. Her piece also includes iridescent bubbles with words of affirmation within the bubbles, along with a 3D frame and flower pot to add dimension.

In her submission letter, Destiny Angelique wrote, “The idea of having a flower sitting in front of a window is an expression of blossoming into your full potential. The flower represents the black woman community, from adolescents to elders. As a biracial woman, I have had struggles figuring out where I fit in. Feeling like I had to be this or that, battling with not liking my curly hair because it was so different. As I’ve grown older and become comfortable in my own skin, I don’t have to be anything for anybody to fit in. I belong right here, right now. This installation is a reminder to all my brown skin beauties that no matter what YOU DESERVE TO TAKE UP SPACE and rise to your fullest essence.”

The goal is to create pieces that highlight the mission of the festival while encouraging self-

Sing

Continued from C1

put one’s survival at risk. Life choices and a criminal justice system that often stacks the odds against Black and brown citizens have him serving a lengthy bid at Sing Sing. He manages to thrive by leaning into his love for reading, writing and performing. Despite the confines of his cell and prison standard operating procedures that negate his humanity at every turn, Divine G has found freedom in being the authentic self he felt society discouraged prior to his incarceration. He motivates other members of RTA to do the same –and even takes an unlikely protégé under his wing.

Led by Domingo in the role of Divine G, “Sing Sing” also stars Academy Award nominee Paul Raci and several of the formerly incarcerated RTA alumni –including Clarence “Divine Eye” Maclin and Sean San José.

Baldwin

Continued from C1

or kicked out.”

Reese is currently in the process of submitting his album for a Grammy nomination. It is an aptly timed feat; celebrating 100 years of Baldwin and enjoying the possibility of receiving a Grammy as a celebration of his own career where so much of Reese’s time and love was poured into keeping Baldwin’s legacy alive. Offering his avorite quote of Baldwin’s, Reese recited: “Go the way your

love and inspiring confidence among women, specifically Black women. The annual festival returns to Tower Grove Park on Saturday, Sept. 21, from noon to 7 p.m. The vibrant event celebrates natural beauty, culture, art, and community. Festival goers will experience this year’s array of shopping from local vendors, food, family-friendly fun, and music. Proceeds from the festival will be donated to Frizzy By Nature, LLC a 501(c) (3) nonprofit dedicated to fostering self-love and inspiring unwavering confidence among women. Frizz Fest, which is free and open to the public, will include a dynamic performance by a legendary singer and songwriter to be announced soon. Additionally, there is an amazing lineup of St. Louis-based artists featuring Hostess Tee Parks, DJ Nico Marie, Alexia Simone, Be.Be Neo Soul, Golliday, and Kode Redd. Attendees will also enjoy free yoga with The Collective and free wellness shots from BJuiced; a natural Hair Show sponsored by Healthy Hair Solutions; and a mini Farmer’s Market sponsored by Food City. Kids will be able to enjoy the Youth Zone, sponsored by the Little Bit Foundation, which will keep the whole family entertained with free games, activities,

Having his well-deserved moment as a leading man, Domingo showcases the brilliance that was once relegated to “wait a minute, who’s that guy?” with his performance as Divine G. Domingo’s ability to compel audiences to lean in and connect with supporting – or even seemingly insignificant – roles should be required study for aspiring actors. “Sing Sing” gives him the center stage platform to display his natural magnetism and keen ability to deliver an authentic and emotionally intelligent portrayal.

But what was equally captivating, was how the RTA alums rose to the occasion of going toe-totoe with acclaimed actors. Maclin just might have put himself in contention to share the rarified air of his co-stars as an Academy Award nominee if the 2024 awards season goes the way many predict. He utilizes every one of the acting muscles he developed in RTA and earns every ounce of acclaim “Sing Sing” will most cer-

blood beats. if you don’t live the only life that you have, you won’t live some other life, you won’t live any life at all.” Listen to Reese’s

Leslie Hughes, CEO and Founder of Frizzy By Nature and Frizz Fest at Frizz Fest 2023.

Photo Courtesy of frizzyBynature.com

August Events at the Missouri History Museum

arts, and crafts. Square is the presenting sponsor of Frizz Fest this year. Frizz Fest is also sponsored by Walmart, Food City, The Little Bit Foundation, CareSTL Health, and Verizon. In addition, Frizz Fest received a program support grant from RAC Frizz Fest and the nonprofit Frizzy By Nature, LLC, were founded by Leslie Hughes in 2017 as a way to channel her emotions into helping her community after her mother died. She wanted to give Black women, underrepresented groups, and their allies and neighbors a place to find joy and feel supported.

“Frizz Fest is a place where you can have fun, be yourself, and find people who are on a similar journey,” Hughes said. “People are there to live authentically and be present in their journey, whatever it is and wherever they are.”

Those interested can register for the festival at www.frizzybynature. com to stay updated on additional information and reserved seating options. To learn more about Frizz Fest or Frizzy By Nature, LLC, please visit https:// frizzybynature.com/.

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

tainly grant him.

By creating space for actual members of RTA “Sing Sing” also makes a case for “citizen cinema” and illustrates the power of second chances for those branded due to past convictions.

While the backstories for characters could have used more flesh – and clearly connected dots. But the hollowness with respect to their past lives didn’t diminish the film’s power of displaying their current reality.

The film demonstrates that the arts not only have healing and power, but can also be an opportunity for freedom and redemption through a shared display of humanity. This can be seen both in the lives that inspired “Sing Sing” and the real-life RTA members who played a critical role in transforming their experiences into the art that appears on screen.

“Sing Sing” opens in theaters nationwide on Friday, August 16. The film is rated R with a running time of 105 minutes.

Charles Reese, an actor, writer, and speaker, created “James Baldwin & Me: A Centennial Tribute,” a spoken word album with perspectives interwoven between Reese, Baldwin, and Howard B. Simon.

Courtesy photo

album by searching “James Baldwin & Me: A Centennial Tribute” on any music platform.

By the Missouri Historical Society

“The Legacy of Prejudice at the 1904 World’s Fair” is the topic of discussion at this week’s Thursday Nights at the Museum program at the Missouri History Museum. At 6:30pm, Linda Nance will explore the experiences of Black clubwomen who chose to boycott the Fair because of overt racism. Ria Unson will share her great-grandfather’s story of coming from the Philippines to work at the Fair as part of the Pensionado program, an international strategy to demonstrate how people could be molded into ideal colonial subjects. Dave Walsh will moderate a conversation that examines how persistent narratives of the Fair affect our world today and considers how to move forward intentionally. This program will also feature a sneak peek at the Missouri Historical Society Press’s upcoming book, The Wonder and Complexity of the 1904 World’s Fair, featuring essays by Nance, Unson, and Walsh (available for purchase in November). There will be a happy hour in the Grand Hall starting at 5pm, with food and beverages available for purchase from the Key Bistro; a Historian’s Corner; and a World’s Fair touch table. The 1904 World’s Fair and other exhibits will be open until 8pm.

On August 17, the Museum will host a family activism day commemorating the memory of Michael Brown and the activism that followed his death 10 years ago.

In a 45-minute youth activism workshop at 10:15am and 11:30am, children ages 10 and up can explore the best way to create change, using primary sources to explore local history and ongoing movements in Ferguson and St. Louis. A special story time at 10:30am will feature books that discuss how to process violence and different points of view in our community and encourage all of us to advocate for the changes we feel are important. Books will include Something Happened in Our Town by Marianne Celano, Marietta Collins, and Ann Hazzard; All Because You Matter by Tami Charles; and Peaceful Fights for Equal Rights by Rob Sanders. At 11:15am and 12:30pm, Mama Lisa will lead a 45-minute dance wellness workshop for all ages, “Brown Baby Blues for Mike.” This event has been planned in consultation with the Michael Brown Sr. Chosen For Change Organization

Also that day at the Museum, from 1pm to 3pm, the St. Louis African American History and Genealogy Society will present its monthly workshop, which is open to all. The topic for August is “AI and Genealogy.” On August 19, from 10am to 12pm, there will be a sensory-friendly morning for individuals on the autism spectrum and their companions. An exhibit tour of Coloring STL will be integrated with specially designed sensory-friendly activities that will engage participants while respecting their sensory needs. The Museum will be closed to the general public, and lighting and noise levels will be adjusted to create a more inclusive atmosphere to minimize sensory overload and provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Registration is required for this program. Visit mohistory.org/events/ sensory-friendly-morning to register. Save the date for upcoming Thursday Nights at the Museum programs. On August 22, “The Black Schoolhouse” will focus on community efforts to revitalize, preserve, and repurpose historical Black schoolhouses across the state. Presenters will include Angela da Silva, Crockett Oaks, David Shipley, Ben Gall, and Jesse Francis. The presentation will begin at 6:30pm. Starting at 5pm, purchase food and drink from the Key Bistro; meet and connect with organizations like the Missouri Historical Society’s African American History Initiative (AAHI), the Summer Alumni Association, and others; create your own “back-to-school” pencils and notebooks; and share thoughts and memories about your neighborhood in a community binder.

The topic for August 29 is “The People of Pruitt-Igoe.” At 6:30pm, Carol Daniels of Nine PBS will moderate a panel discussion with former Pruitt-Igoe residents Anita Brown, Sheila Carbin, and Gregory Flenoid. Enjoy a happy hour before the program with food and drink available for purchase from the Key Bistro, and visit a resource table hosted by the AAHI and an artifacts table provided by Robert Green

The Coloring STL exhibit will close on September 2. Visit the Museum over Labor Day weekend for the closing celebration and a final “Color Every Inch” challenge. Artist Dexter Silvers will also present a special pop-up exhibit of St. Louis landmarks and street scenes and unveil four new works.

African American History Initiative (AAHI) programming is presented by Wells Fargo. The Thursday Nights at the Museum series is presented by WashU.

Religion Faith in Action

Organizations challenge church leaders to commit to youth justice

By Sylvester Brown, Jr.

St. Louis American

“Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.”

James 2:17

The essence of that scripture was emphasized when church and community leaders gathered to “put faith into action” during “Youth Justice Action Day” Monday.

The press conference, held at the Deaconess Foundation headquarters at 1000 N. Vandeventer, aimed to raise awareness “about children impacted by school suspensions and detention centers and to urge community members to act.” A training session for faith leaders was held immediately after the press briefing.

The event was hosted by Metropolitan Congregations United (MCU) and Chosen for Change (CFC), an organization founded in 2014 by Michael Brown Sr, father of Mike Brown, Jr. The murder of Brown’s son by a Ferguson police officer ignited riots and protests in the region. To recognize his “10th Angelversary,” MCU, CFU and other local organizations have hosted various community events this month.

MCU, founded in 1991, defines itself as “a multi-racial, multi-faith, nonpartisan network of community congregations and faith-based organizations committed to empowering citizens, developing grassroots leaders, and building strong, equitable communities in the St. Louis metro region.”

In a press statement, the nonprofit said it activates congregation members to “put their faith into action” by identifying and

working on issues on three levels: Beginning in congregations and neighborhoods, then expanding those efforts to the larger community and finally “culminating into connection with regional and statewide issues.”

Rick Gaines, Chief Juvenile Officer in St. Louis County, described how his office works with MCU’s affiliated religious leaders.

“Our commitment is to work with MCU and engage MCU as a partner in working with our young people…we want to engage young people, engage their parents. We want feedback and if there are concerns or questions about what we do… (I want to know) what can we do to make those things better? The essence of this work is we (must) work together, and we have to have those tough conversations.”

Ironically perhaps, the Deaconess Foundation building sits less than a block away from the city’s juvenile detention center on Enright Avenue. Gaines spoke to the flaws inherent in a system “created to produce what they were designed to do.”

His work, Gaines added, is to reimagine what that system should look like.

“How can I work in a way that supports young people and their families? MCU is an important part of that.”

MCU is not the only entity engaged in juvenile justice reimagining work. The Sentencing Project-a nonprofit that advocates for effective and humane responses to crime-released a report last year highlighting needed reforms that the state and local youth justice

systems should adopt “to combat the overuse of incarceration and maximize the success of youth who are placed in alternative-to-incarceration programs.”

“To reduce overreliance on youth incarceration, alternative-to-incarceration programs must be supported by youth justice systems that heed adolescent development research, make timely and evidence-informed decisions about how delinquency cases are handled, and institutionalize youth only as a last resort when they pose an immediate threat to public safety.”

In addition the report stressed: “systems must make concerted, determined efforts to reduce the longstanding biases which have

perpetuated the American youth justice system’s glaring racial and ethnic disparities in confinement.”

With a bold mandate for people of faith, MCU outlined a pathway to creating “just systems through political change.”

The core values of the effort include “organizing people and money to build political power and take action,” encouraging faith leaders to act for the common good by harnessing “their power to demand radical change” and serve as “catalyst for change by organizing “more impacted people to do the same.”

With those goals in mind,

Pastor Reggie Chandler of

Greater Kingdom Mission Church at 633 MLK Blvd near Wellston, gave an impassioned plea to members.

“We come as concerned citizens who know we can’t arrest, jail and detain our way out of challenges in our communities. We need strong, well-funded public schools. We need care in criminalization. We come today to ask the faith communities and organizations to commit to support these families. So, I’m asking the clergy, will you all come together and join MCU and let’s do this together?”

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

Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American

Pastor Reggie Chandler of Greater Kingdom Mission Church spoke during the Youth Justice Day of Action at the Deaconess Foundation on Monday, August 12, 2024. The event was held to raise awareness of the number of children impacted by school suspensions and detention centers.

STAFF ACCOUNTANT

– PART TIME:

We are looking for a part-time accountant to support the finance team with general accounting responsibilities. This position will touch all parts of accounting, including but not limited to general accounting, accounts payable, audit and tax preparation support. This individual will also work closely with the entire organization supporting requests related to financial results for departmental leaders. Interested applicants can visit our website for full details and to apply online at: www. forestparkforever.org/ jobs.

HUMAN RESOURCES GENERALIST:

The Human Resource Generalist will support the daily functions of the Human Resource (HR) department including hiring and interviewing staff, administering pay, benefits, and leave, collaborating with leaders and managers, and interpreting and enforcing FPF’s policies and practices. Interested applicants can visit our website for full job description and to apply online at: www. forestparkforever.org/jobs.

VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION COUNSELOR

The Major Gift Officer is responsible for cultivating and maintaining relationships with individual donors to secure financial support to advance the mission and objectives of Forest Park Forever. Interested applicants please visit our website for compete position details and to apply online at: www.forestparkforever. org/jobs.

COMMUNICATIONS

SPECIALIST

POSITION SUMMARY:

Perform a range of communications duties on the Communications and Marketing team, including writing/editing content for newsletters, external website and employee communications, assisting with presentations for executive leadership and collaborating Forest Park Forever communications strategies. Interested applicants can visit our website for full details and to apply online at: www.forestparkforever. org/jobs.

The state of Missouri is accepting applications for a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor in the St. Charles area. Application deadline is August 23, 2024. Starting salary is $51,624. View job description and application instructions at: mocareers.mo.gov and use keyword “Counselor”.

vacancy for a United States Probation Officer. Please visit the U.S. Probation and Pretrial Services Office website at https://www.ilsp.uscourts. gov and access the Career Opportunities tab for complete details of the position announcement and how to apply.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

St. Louis City Senior Fund’s Board of Directors is seeking applicants for its next executive director. Senior Fund is an independent taxing district established in the City of St. Louis to support resources for older adult residents. Learn about the position, desired qualifications, and compensation at stlseniorfund.org/news

MISSOURI HISTORICAL SOCIETY CURRENT JOB OPENINGS!

The Missouri Historical Society is actively hiring for the following positions:

Campaign Coordinator – Full time Early childhood and Family Programs

Museum Educator –Part time

Housekeeper – Full time Objects Conservator – Full time

Resource Protection Officer –Part time

Visitor Experience AssociatePart time

Please visit www.mohistory.org under the “Current Openings” at the bottom of the home page for position details and to apply. An

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY -

FIREFIGHTER/PARAMEDIC

North County Fire & Rescue Fire Protection District is accepting applications for Probationary Firefighter/Paramedic position. Prior to filling out job application details, requirements, and instructions(Candidate Guidelines) are listed on our website: NOCOFR.com

Interested candidates must complete an “Application for Employment Form” at the Fire District’s Headquarters located at 9207 Bellefontaine Road Drive St. Louis Missouri, 63137. Application forms will be available and accepted from 08:00 AM (CST) to 3:00 PM, (CST) Monday through Thursday, August 26, 2024, and 08:00 AM through Noon Friday, August 30, 2024

SLDC IS EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

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

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

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

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

To apply online and see a full job description go to https://www.developstlouis.org/ careers and then click “Open Positions & Apply Online.”

Behavior Technician – Full-time Days Pediatrics (Toddlers)

COME PLAY WITH US! Making a difference in the life of a child with special needs and supporting parents is a rewarding opportunity. This is a dynamic new Washington University School of Medicine Pediatric program (Early Strides) supporting Black toddlers (12-36 months) diagnosed with Autistic Spectrum Disorder.

Early Strides embeds learning into daily activities and our teaching looks like play which is fun for toddlers. Patience, compassion, creativity and attunement are the recipe for success in providing high-quality teaching. We are seeking several individuals whom have the art of developing quick rapport with children and teaching strategies for highly individualized learning plans, assist with day-to-day play activities, collect and record data on children’s progress, and communicate with parents. The role involves providing 1:1 ABA therapy to children aged 3 years and younger. Prior ABA experience is not required

Our aim is to provide high-quality, high-frequency, interventions to toddlers who may otherwise not have access to this caliber of service. Early Strides uses a combination of Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Interventions that are rooted in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to help support children’s learning. This blend embeds learning into activities that are appropriate and fun and our teaching looks like playing. New hires will receive training and will be required to complete Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) certification within 12 weeks.

Primary responsibilities of this role include providing one-on-one Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy to children aged 3 and younger. Prior ABA experience is not required. The therapy is conducted through play-based activities, with a focus on enhancing relationships and social motivation while building developmental milestones. The role involves teaching specific skills and implementing behavior plans using positive and strength-based strategies based on the principles of ABA. Additionally, responsibilities include data collection, session recording, and communication with caregivers. Daily progress notes are to be documented in the EPIC system. The role also involves supporting positive interactions with parents or guardians.

Required qualifications include a high school diploma or equivalent certification. The ability to complete RBT training and registration within 90 days of employment is necessary. A background in child development, such as being a parent, teacher, or daycare worker, is preferred. Other preferred qualifications include previous experience working with children diagnosed with Autistic Spectrum Disorder and familiarity with Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and its application.

Salary Range is $16.40 - $23.70 / Hourly and benefits include up to 22 days of vacation, 10 holidays, sick time, health insurance with lower copays/ coinsurance, retirement Savings Plan with contributions, tuition assistance and so much more!

Apply online: https://jobs.wustl.edu (job# JR83190)

St. LouiS american Bids & Public Notices St. LouiS

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS

PARIC Corporation is seeking proposals for the following project: ST. CHARLES COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS 3RD FLOOR, located at 301 N. 2nd St., St. Charles, MO 63301.

The project consists of the renovation of existing kitchen and housing space on the 3RD Floor of St. Charles County Department of Correction’s to become new substance abuse and behavioral health housing units and includes construction of a new mezzanine.

Access to documents is available from our Smartbid link. If you do not receive a bid invitation, please send your company information to tlalexander@paric.com.

A PREBID meeting will be held on Tuesday, August 13th at 10:00am at 301 North 2nd Street, St. Charles, MO 63301.

Questions / RFI’s are due to PARIC by Wednesday, August 21, 2024.

BIDS WILL BE DUE ON September 5th, 2024 @ 2:00pm.

Send all questions to Grant Whitson (gwhitson@paric.com).

This project will have prevailing wage requirements.

The construction phase of this project shall have a Supplier Diversity participation goal of subcontracting with MBE of 10%, with SDVE of 3%; and WBE, DBE, and/or VBE of 10% of the GMP. The Construction Manager at Risk is strongly encouraged to include minority and women owned firms. CMRs are also strongly encouraged to include Missouri-based firms on the team.

All bids should be delivered to PARIC via e-mail (bids@paric.com) or fax (636-561-9501).

PARIC CORPORATION IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

CERTIFIED MBE/WBE/SDVE SUBCONTRACTORS

The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company is soliciting bids from Minority Business Enterprises (MBE), Women Business Enterprises (WBE), and ServiceDisabled Veteran Enterprises (SDVE) for The University of Missouri Project Number CP241931 Memorial Stadium –Improvements & The University of Missouri Project Number CP241933 Memorial Stadium – Site Utility Improvements Located on the campus of The University of Missouri in Columbia, Missouri

The bid solicitations include but are not limited to Flooring, Painting, Interior Glazing, Structural Concrete, Structural Steel, Masonry, Earthwork, Site Utilities, Framing, Drywall, Precast Concrete, Landscaping, Carpentry, Miscellaneous Specialties, and Miscellaneous General Trade Packages that will be available in phases starting in August 2024 through 2025. Interested parties should access the documents on the UM System Website: http://operations-webapps.missouri.edu/pdc/adsite/ ad.html or contact THE WHITING-TURNER CONTRACTING COMPANY 2519 Madison Avenue, Suite 200 Kansas City, MO 64108 Phone: 816-921-0100 for access to bid packages or further information.

ADVERTISEMENT/ NOTICE

Bids for New Laboratory Campus Multi-Agency, Project No. O2301-01 will be received by McCownGordon Construction at the office of OA/FMDC, State of MO UNTIL 2:00PM, August 28, 2024. Project location is 135 N Chestnut St, Jefferson City, MO 65101. Bid Package 03 Scopes of work including: Site Concrete; Masonry; Fireproofing; Roofing; Metal & Specialty Wall Panels; Joint Sealants & Waterproofing; Interior Glass and Glazing; OH Doors, Loading Dock Equipment, Fire Curtains; Drywall & Ceilings; Walk in Coolers / Freezers; Shooting Range Equipment; Projectile Recovery Tank; Laboratory Casework & Equipment; Elevators; Overhead Hoist Rail; Fire Suppression; Site Modular Retaining Walls; Landscaping. https://app.buildingconnected.com/ public/565cdb606895000f004164f2/ projects/664e10d6f7dd580035b287cb

MBE participation goal of 10% and WBE participation Goals of 10% and SDVE participation goal of 3% are included.

OA/FMDC reserves the right to reject any and all bids and to waive all informalities in bids. McCownGordon Construction is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

Sealed Proposals for B24-1228 Facilities Management Services will be received at Lincoln University Purchasing Dept 1002 Chestnut St, RM 101 Shipping & Receiving Bldg., JC, MO 65101 until 2PM CT on 06SEP2024. Download Proposal Request at “https://www.lincolnu.edu/ about-lincoln/purchasing/ bid-information/index.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

The City of University City is requesting sealed proposals for the redevelopment of 8008 Olive Blvd. Proposals are due Wednesday, September 11, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. CST. For more information and the complete RFP package, please see the Business Page for the City of University City at https://www. ucitymo.org/64/ Business.

SEALED BIDS

Bids for Replace HVAC, Structural Repairs & Replace Roof at George Washington Carver State Office Building, Project No. O2440-01, will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, September 19, 2024 via MissouriBUYS. Bidders must be registered to bid. Project information available at: http://oa.mo.gov/ facilities

SEALED BIDS

Bids for Minor Renovations for Infection Control at Warrensburg Veterans Home, Project No. U2302-02, will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, September 10, 2024 via MissouriBUYS. Bidders must be registered to bid. Project information available at: http://oa.mo. gov/facilities

PUBLIC NOTICE

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

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

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

Network for Strong Communities, a nonprofit organization, is accepting proposals from qualified commercial painters to complete the painting of the brick exterior and trim of our office building located at 8050 Watson Road, St. Louis, MO 63119. A copy of the complete RFP is available at, https://nscnow.org/ rfp-rfp. To be considered, proposals must be submitted no later than 3 P.M. CST on September 6, 2024.

CITY OF ST. LOUIS BOARD OF PUBLIC SERVICE

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS FOR PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR ON-CALL ARCHITECTURAL & ENGINEERING SERVICES, ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI. Statements of Qualifications due by 5:00 P.M. CT, SEPTEMBER 5, 2024 through the Bid Express online portal at https:// www.bidexpress.com/ businesses/20618/home? agency=true RFQ may be obtained from the BPS website https://www.stlouis-mo.gov/ government/departments/ public-service/, under BPS RFQ and RFP Announcement, or call Board of Public Service at 314-589-6214. 25% MBE and 5% WBE participation goals.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

COMPREHENSIVE CLIMATE ACTION PLAN

East-West Gateway is seeking submittals from consultants to develop a Comprehensive Climate Action Plan for the St. Louis, MO-IL MSA. Submittals are due no later than 1:00 p.m. on July 10, 2024. Submittal details and specifications can be obtained at www.ewgateway.org

SEALED BIDS

Bids for Renovate Cabins 1-4, 14, & 19, Sam A Baker State Park, Project No. X2319-01 will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, September 10, 2024. For specific project information and ordering plans, go to: http://oa.mo. gov/facilities

SEALED BIDS

Bids for Renovate Interior & Exterior at St. Clair Readiness Center, Project No. T2326-01, will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, September 12, 2024 via MissouriBUYS. Bidders must be registered to bid. Project information available at: http://oa.mo. gov/facilities

SEALED BIDS

Bids for Replace Concrete Dock & Entryway, Regional Office Building, Project No. M2408-01 will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, 9/12/24. For specific project information and ordering plans, go to: http://oa.mo. gov/facilities

Reinhardt Construction LLC is Soliciting Bids from MBE/WBE/DBE/ Veteran/SDVE for the following: CP245321 Patient Care Tower – T1230 MRI Room

Contact: Mike Murray ; mikem@ reinhardtconstructionllc. com

Phone: 573-682-5505

ST. LOUIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES

HOUSING URBAN DEVELOPMENT CONTINUUM OF CARE FY24-25 NOTICE OF FUNDING OPPORTUNITY

The United States Department of Housing and Urban Development has launched the FY2024 - FY2025 Continuum of Care Competition. St. Louis County Continuum of Care is seeking proposals for housing and supportive services projects that meet the requirements of this specific HUD funding opportunity. The project application reguirements and process can be found on the St. Louis County Continuum’s website at www.stlouiscoc.com. An informational virtual meeting to review the details of the Continuum of Care FY24-25 funding will be held on August 19th at 11 a.m. The virtual meeting link can be found on the CoC website at www.stlouiscoc. com. Proposals are due to the Continuum of Care by 5:00 p.m. on September 20, 2024.

OF

TAX SALE For 11708 Poggemoeller Ave 63138. There exists an equitable / legal adverse claim to the property. Respond to: PO Box 38036 St. Louis Mo, 63138.

St. LouiS american Bids & Public Notices St.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

The City of Crestwood, Missouri Department of Parks and Recreation is requesting sealed proposals for a prefabricated restroom structure delivered to and installed at Whitecliff Park. Sealed proposals are due Thursday August 8, 2024, at 10:00 am CST. For more information and the complete RFP package please see the Bids and RFP’s section of the City of Crestwood website (https://www.cityofcrestwood.org/Bids.aspx)

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

Sealed bids for 24-162 – Culvert Cleaning Program will be received by the City of St. Peters, Purchasing Department, City Hall, One St. Peters Centre Boulevard, P.O. Box 9, St. Peters, Missouri 63376 until 2:00 PM local time, August 23, 2024 and then opened and read aloud.

Contract Documents will be available on August 8, 2024 and may be obtained from the City of St. Peters website www.stpetersmo.net/bids.aspx

All questions regarding this project shall be submitted to the City of St. Peters Purchasing Department in writing to Bids@stpetersmo.net under the subject line 24-162 – Culvert Cleaning Program before noon local time, August 15, 2024.

The City reserves the right to waive any informality in bidding, and to accept the bid most advantageous to the City.

ADVERTISEMENT/ NOTICE

Bids for New Laboratory Campus Multi-Agency, Project No. O2301-01 will be received by McCownGordon Construction at the office of OA/ FMDC, State of MO UNTIL 2:00PM, August 27, 2024. Project location is 135 N Chestnut St, Jefferson City, MO 65101. Bid Package 5 Scopes of work includes the following: Above Ground Plumbing & Mechanical.

Bid Package information available at: https://app.buildingconnected.com/ public/565cdb606895000f004164f2/ projects/66b13eb692d3b50042c9760d

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

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

URBAN SEARCH & RESCUE TASK FORCE LEADERSHIP TRAINING SERIES

East-West Gateway is seeking submittals from consultants to provide an Urban Search & Rescue Task Force Leadership Training Series, funded by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security / FEMA. Submittals are due no later than 1:00 p.m. on September 4, 2024. Submittal details can be obtained at www.ewgateway.org.

INVITATION FOR EQUIPMENT BIDS

East-West Gateway Council of Governments is seeking bids for portable x-ray systems, tactical robot, night vision and tactical camera equipment. Bids are due 09/04/2024. Funding is provided by the U.S. Dept. of Homeland Security. D/S/W/MBEs are encouraged to submit bids. Find details at www.ewgateway.org

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS HOSTAGE RESCUE TRAINING

East-West Gateway is seeking submittals from consultants to provide a Hostage Rescue training course for a regional law enforcement team, funded by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security / FEMA. Submittals are due no later than 1:00 p.m. on September 4, 2024. Submittal details can be obtained at www.ewgateway.org

PUBLIC NOTICE

Donald Maggi Inc. is accepting bids from Disadvantaged Business Enterprises for subcontracting opportunities on the Route E Sidewalk Improvements, Rolla MO 65401 Project No.: TAP-9901 (532)

Bid Date and Time: 11:00 am on Wednesday, August 21, 2024

Plans/Specification is available via Dropbox or google drive or https://www.rollacity.org/bids.

shtml

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

Donald Maggi Inc.

AUCTION NOTICE

SEALED BIDS

900 N 1st Street St. Louis, MO 63102

The City of St. Louis Port Authority will receive Sealed Bids on 8/16/2024 For more info. Visitstlouis-mo.gov/https://www. government/ departments/sldc/ procurement/index. cfm

Notice is hereby given that the following individuals are indebted to Mi-Box Storage for past due rent and other charges. Auction will be conducted at 1444 N Warson Rd. on August 16 2024 at 11AM. Mi-Box Storage reserves the right to bid on any unit. Sale of a unit is subject to cancellation in the event of a settlement between Landlord and obligated party. Tomaka Jackson #581: Clothes, Shoes, TVs, Furniture, Misc. Household Franchot Cunningham #544: Furniture Items

Bids for Install Pedestrian Bridge At Pleasant Hill Over Union Pacific Railroad, Project No. X2311-01 will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30 PM, September 10, 2024. For specific project information and ordering plans, go to: http:// oa.mo.gov/ facilities

BIDS

Bids for Crime Lab-Exterior Renovations Troop-H Headquarters Building, Project No. R2338-01will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1:30

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING

A public meeting for the Jennings Station Road–Chain of Rocks Drive Resurfacing project, St. Louis County Project No. AR-1855, Federal Project No. STBG9901(683) will be held on Thursday, August 15th, 2024, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Bellefontaine Neighbors Community Center located at 9669 Bellefontaine Road, St. Louis, MO, 63137.

The goal of this meeting is to inform the public and local stakeholders of St. Louis County’s plans to preserve Jennings Station Road from New Halls Ferry Road to Bellefontaine Road and Chain of Rocks Drive from Bellefontaine Road to the St. Louis City limits. Based on community feedback received, we’ve revised the project design. Please join us to learn more.

The following QR code will link to the in-person meeting information on the St. Louis County Department of Transportation and Public Works website:

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE:

Advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, imitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial\status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination. “We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.”

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®

Gamma Omega Chapter Ivy Alliance Foundation Awards $70,841 to 40th Annual FASHIONETTA™ Scholarship Cotillion Debutantes and Escorts Liliana Boyd Crowned – Miss FASHIONETTA™ 2024

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® Gamma Omega Chapter recently presented its 40th Annual FASHIONETTA™ Scholarship Cotillion on Sunday, May 26, 2024, at the beautiful Royal Sonesta Chase Park Plaza in the Khorrasan Ballroom with nearly 500 in attendance to see this enchanting evening unfold. Fox 2 News Anchor Kelley Hoskins and KSDK News weekend anchor and reporter Travis Cummings served as emcees for the evening. The young adults had the opportunity to chat and receive words of encouragement from St. Louis Mayor Tishaura O. Jones prior to the presentation. Event and souvenir journal presently available @AKAGOSTL.com.

At the event, 16 amazing young ladies were presented and escorted by 16 wonderful young men: FASHIONETTA™ is a trademark of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® and a fundraising activity for the chapter’s philanthropic endeavors of the Ivy Alliance Foundation (IAF). Debutantes and Escorts participate in an eight-month experience which included college preparation workshops, community service, overnight retreat, entrepreneurial workshops, church service, and a Mother-Daughter Luncheon.

At the presentation, Debutantes and Escorts received $70,841 in monetary and scholarship awards. Miss Liliana Boyd was crowned Miss Fashionetta™ 2024 and received a $19,190 scholarship. Liliana is the daughter of Phillip C. Boyd and The Honorable Noelle Collins. She is a graduate of Clayton High School and plans to major in STEM at Spelman College.

First Runner-up: Miss Ava Gabrielle Moore

• Daughter of Vladimir Monroe and Keisa Johnson Monroe

• Honors graduate of Mary Institute and Country Day School

• Plans to major in international business and minor in sports management at Howard University or Michigan State University

• Career goal: Entertainment and sports attorney

Second Runner-up: Miss Sara Wooten

• Daughter of Lawrence and Shirley Wooten

• Honors graduate of Whitfield School

• Plans to attend Spelman College to major in psychology on a pre-med track

• Career goal: Psychiatrist

Third Runner-up: Miss Haley Gilliam

• Daughter of Wendy F. Gilliam and Thomas B. Gilliam Jr.

• Graduate of Incarnate Word Academy

• Received a merit-based scholarship to Xavier University of Louisiana

• Plans to major in biology

• Career goal: Dentist or nurse anesthetist

Fourth Runner-up: Miss Lai Jeon Williams

• Daughter of Simeon and LaJuan Williamsv

• Honors graduate of Whitfield School

• Plans to major in sociology and minor in entrepreneurship on a pre-law track at Spelman College

Other Debutante and Escort Participants and College Choices for Fall 2024:

• Nia Barnes: Xavier University in Louisiana, majoring in public health and biology

• Alyssa Hampton: Kentucky State University, majoring in psychology

• Aniyah Howard: University of Louisville, majoring in sports administration

• Paige Jackson: Fairfield University, majoring in biology

• Chaire Perks: Missouri Baptist University, majoring in business administration

• Laila Person: Xavier University in Louisiana, majoring in biology

• Kelsee Phillips: University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, majoring in business management

• Nyheeta Powell: Dillard University, majoring in architecture

• Kailyn Rhimes: Tuskegee University, majoring in veterinary science

• Elanah Sykes: Washington University in St. Louis, majoring in sociology

• Korrina Young: University of Arizona, majoring in healthcare administration

ESCORTS:

• Noah Adou: University of Louisville, majoring in journalism/mass communication

• Michael Bourke: Senior at Whitfield School

• Marlon Brown: North Carolina Central University, majoring in hospitality management

• Richard Cain: Howard University, majoring in chemistry

• Douglas Clark: Joining the US Navy

• Cameron Clayborn: Morehouse College, majoring in biology/chemistry

• Robert Cole III: University of Kansas, majoring in business/pre-medicine

• DaMichael Jackson: Alabama A&M University, majoring in business management

• Jordan J. Johnson: Alabama A&M University, majoring in food science/agriculture

• Addison Jones: Senior at Clayton High School and dual enrollee at St. Louis Community College

• Salaheddin Muhammad: University of Washington, Tacoma, majoring in astrophysics

• Christian D. Patrick: University of Arkansas, majoring in sociology

• Carl D. Summers: St. Louis University, majoring in political science

• Dallas Thornton: Alabama A&M University, majoring in sports journalism

• Ashton Whitfield: Alabama A&M University, majoring in civil engineering/business

• Eric Whittaker: Rockford University, majoring in biology

The Chairperson for FASHIONETTA™ 2024 is Michelle Sanders, with Co-Chairmen Barbara Champagne and MaShyllia Gunn-Minor. Betherny Williams serves as the President and Carla Baker Moore as the Vice President of Gamma Omega Chapter and Ivy Alliance Foundation.