August 29th, 2019 Edition

St. LouiS AmericAn

Madame Mayor: Support our children before we

Krewson should close the Workhouse, fund Cure Violence, appoint youth commissioner

By Rev. Dr. Starsky D. Wilson

For The St. Louis American

entered the home and shot everyone present: my brother, his friend, his friend’s brother and the grandmother they lived with. At the time, I was leader of a community service group for young black teens from across the city. They filled my

Marvin Burks, a freshman at Cardinal Ritter College Prep, shared a message of non-violence on the first day of school, Monday, August 19. Student leadership told school leadership that they wanted to focus on the continuous violence that has impacted children in our region. District seeks partner organizations to help keep children

By Kelvin R. Adams For The St. Louis American

This week, a student told one of our social workers, “I just lost my brother, and now I lost my best friend. I can’t take this … anymore.”

Our children are worth more than $25,000

By Treasurer Tishaura O. Jones

For the St. Louis American

Charles and Shirley Brown honored as Lifetime Achievers in Education Put the guns down Rev. Dr. Starsky D. Wilson co-chairing the Ferguson Commission in December 2015 Saint Louis Public Schools Superintendent Kelvin Adams connected with Zyair Hamilton, 9, while visiting his fourth grade class at Pierre Laclede Junior Career Academy in the city’s Walnut Park neighborhood on the first day of school. Schools continued to open for the fall semester this week.

As a mother, an elected official, and a St. Louisan, I am deeply saddened by the recent deaths of several children in our community. Failing to protect our children is a tragedy. Child safety isn’t just about solving individual crimes, but is a byproduct of living in a community with thriving neighborhoods that invest in people. Recently, Mayor Lyda Krewson opened a press conference by admitting that “conventional policing tactics are not enough.” Then she called for more of the same. The mayor announced a $25,000 reward, courtesy of billionaire conservative political donors Rex and Jeanne Sinquefield, for information related to the recent shootings that claimed the lives of young children. The reward has a oneweek deadline.

Like so many others in our region, I want these murders solved, but we cannot divorce Sinquefield’s small acts of charity from his assault on government, which funds the types of neighborhood investment and services that reduce violence.

In Anand Giridharadas’s book “Winners Take All: The Elite Charade of Changing the World,” he argues that philanthropy can’t outweigh the misdeeds of wealthy benefactors. Sinquefield has spent millions of dollars trying to eliminate St. Louis’ earnings tax, sell our airport to a private entity, and eviscerate black leadership through a failed city/county merger scheme ironically named “Better Together.”

By Rebecca Rivas Of The St. Louis American

The Lifetime Achiever in Education Award will look a little different at the St. Louis American Foundation’s 2019 Salute to Excellence in Education Gala on Saturday, September 21. For the first time, the award will go to a couple — Charles and Shirley Brown. Among many educators and their numerous former students, the pair of educators need no introduction. “They come as a package,” said

Photo by Nicholas Coulter

Photo by Wiley Price

St. Louis Treasurer Tishaura O. Jones

Paul Mooney denies accusations that he seduced Richard Pryor’s son

Ahead of the release of his tell-all book, former Richard Pryor bodyguard Rashon Kahn claimed during an interview with Comedy Hype that Pryor put a hit on former friend and fellow comedy legend Paul Mooney upon learning that Mooney had seduced his son, Richard Pryor Jr.

“There was a time when Paul Mooney was Richard’s friend. But he violated – to the extent that Richard didn’t want him on the planet anymore,” Kahn said. “He was like ‘a million dollars, I want somebody killed.’ When the first time he told me about it, I thought he was high. But because he was adamant about it, I asked him about it again -and then he went into detail. He told me what went on and he was hurt by it.”

during a speech at Richard Sr. repast.

“RPjr confirmed this at the luncheon I gave after Richard’s funeral service,” Jennifer said via Twitter. “He announced it to the entire restaurant full of guests. I have it on tape.”

Mooney’s camp vehemently denies the accusation.

“There is no validity to Rashon Kahn’s statement as it relates to Mr. Paul Mooney,” a publicist for Mooney told TMZ.

In an ambush interview with TMZ.com, Richard Jr. seems to confirm the sexual relations portion of Kahan’s remarks.

“Whatever happened in my life, it happened when I was young – it happened way before the 80s,” Richard Jr. told the interviewer.

Shortly afterwards, Richard Sr.’s widow, Jennifer Lee Pryor, responded to a fan tagging her in a clip of the interview on social media claiming that Richard Jr. told everyone that Mooney had seduced him years before

The interviewer then asked if the alleged relations were consensual.

“How could any relations be consensual if I was a teenager,” Richard Jr. responded.

He had nothing to say as far as Mooney’s denials and no comment regarding Kahn’s allegation that Richard Sr. plans to have Mooney killed – which Kahn claims was foiled

when Richard Sr. set himself on fire in the mid-80s.

“I’m done,” Richard Sr. told the reporter.

Diddy defends Jay-Z’s NFL deal

In a lengthy Instagram post, fellow hiphop mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs came to the defense of Jay-Z amidst the relentless backlash he has received following his announcement of his partnership with the NFL. An excerpt of the post reads as follows:

“Hov is one of the greatest to ever do it, he has been there more than anybody from the hip hop culture, including me. He always has been so selfless and fights for other people. We as a people cannot be divided and conquered at this time,” Diddy said. “I’m so @kaepernick7 and the attention he was able to bring and the efforts he continues to make. I’ll continue to support him in every way possible. I was just watching everything last week, but it hurt me to my heart because I know this man (Jay-Z) personally. We cannot go against each other, there’s not enough

of us. I applaud Jay Z and I applaud the NFL for bringing him in. We have to come together and make the hard decisions. Nobody is going to do it for us.”

Eliza Reign reads Future on Instagram

Eliza Reign, the Instagram model who claims she recently became the sixth mother of a child fathered by rapper Future, unleashed after being slammed on social media and labeled a gold digger for taking Future to child support court. She gave a rundown of how they hooked up and accuses him of leaving her hanging after she became pregnant.

“He came around. We got cool. Hashed out the past. He made promises. Then disappeared again,” Reign said. “I’m not running no [n-word expletive] down to do what he’s supposed to do. I finally decided to let the courts chase him instead. Regardless of how she got here, she’s here. So, stop making excuses and justifying a grown man abandoning an innocent child.”

She then goes on to say that having a baby by the rapper has hindered her finances, not helped.

“If it was about the bag, I could have secured that by having an abortion, like the other girls did,” Reign said. “I really think he forced my hand to make it me look band and like this is what I had planned the whole time.”

Sources: Instagram.com, Twitter.com, YouTube.com, Comedy Hype, TMZ.com

Sean “Diddy” Combs

Paul Mooney

Federal judge orders overhaul of Missouri’s treatment of juveniles

Court requires parole board to improve transparency, accountability, and training

By Chris King

Of The St. Louis American

U.S. District Judge Nanette

K. Laughrey has ordered the Missouri Parole Board to start handling juvenile cases according to the U.S. and Missouri constitutions after ruling that the board’s current practice violates the Eighth and Fourteenth Amendments to the United States Constitution, as well as Article I, Sections 10 and 21, of the Missouri Constitution.

In an order issued on August 1 as a result of a class action lawsuit, Brown v. Precythe, filed by the MacArthur Justice Center, Laughrey ordered more than 20 changes to how the State of Missouri handles youthful offenders serving mandatory life without parole (LWOP) sentences. The four names plaintiffs in the case are Norman Brown, Ralph McElroy, Sidney Roberts and Theron Roland.

The changes, which the court ordered must be made “promptly,” will enable these offenders to more effectively participate in hearings, including requiring full access to the records in their parole files; the right to bring multiple

witnesses to a parole hearing, including an expert witness; the right to be represented by counsel at a critical pre-hearing interview; and, if represented, the right for their attorney to meaningfully advocate at the parole hearing.

The Missouri Parole Board will also be required to document reasons for its parole decisions and the evidence relied upon in reaching its decision.

The court also ordered changes in how the parole board will run hearings and make decisions for class members. Rather than being heard before a single parole board member, hearings will take place before two to three board members. In addition, the board cannot use risk assessment tools unless they are specifically tailored to the youthful offender class, because such tools may impermissibly hold the person’s youth at the time of the offense against them.

The court also took aim at the outright discrimination facing juvenile LWOP prisoners, including prohibiting any impediments in programming participation based on JLWOP status.

“Perhaps the most important part of the Order is that it prohibits the parole board from denying parole based solely on the seriousness of the offense and requires them to make decisions through a youthfocused lens,” said Amy E.

Judge Laughrey quoted from the judicial record, “children who commit even heinous crimes are capable of change.”

Class members previously denied parole will be granted the opportunity for a second

n As U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey quoted from the judicial record, “children who commit even heinous crimes are capable of change.”

Breihan, Missouri director of the MacArthur Justice Center.

“Indeed, these decisions should be based on who these men and women have become over time, not their worst act as children.”

hearing under the new policies and procedures. In the meantime, the parole board should be trained on how to conduct a meaningful parole process for youthful offenders, as the court’s order includes

mandatory training to be developed by the Council of State Government.

“Our clients – each of whom was convicted of a crime as a kid and has grown up in adult prison over the past couple of decades – will finally have the opportunity to show that they have changed,” said Megan Crane, an attorney with the MacArthur Justice Center.

The MacArthur Justice Center brought this suit in the wake of the 2012 U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Miller v. Alabama, which banned mandatory life without parole prison terms for children based on its recognition that youth are inherently less culpable and more capable of rehabilitation.

Missouri was one of several states that had been sentencing teens to die behind bars without any individualized

consideration of their youth or ability to be rehabilitated. At first, it looked like the approximately 100 people in Missouri serving these unconstitutional sentences would be resentenced in court, as was the case in many states. The Missouri Supreme Court, however, denied resentencing hearings for Miller-impacted youthful offenders. Instead, the Missouri legislature relegated them to the Missouri Parole Board, making every youthful offender serving a mandatory LWOP sentence eligible for parole after serving 25 years in prison.

Unfortunately, Missouri’s attempt to answer Miller via the parole process failed.

The Missouri Parole Board treated juvenile LWOP individuals with arbitrary and cruel practices, denying parole to over 85 percent of the people who had hearings and providing only boilerplate explanations for their decisions.

Among many other problems, youthful offenders were denied access to the evidence against them and limited to one delegate who could accompany them to their hearing – often forcing a choice between an attorney and a family member. Most glaringly, in direct contravention of Miller, the Board failed to consider the prisoners’ youth at the time of the crime when denying parole.

Miller gave our clients hope, for the first time, that they might have a life outside of prison. Missouri’s sham parole process denied this hope for too long,” said Crane. “This order promises to finally give them a chance.”

A copy of the Court’s order can be found at https://tinyurl. com/y337n2sn.

As

Open letter to Board of Aldermen on closing the Workhouse

Which side of history will you be on?

By The Close the Workhouse Campaign

Dear Alderpersons,

In light of the recent spate of violent killings in the City of St. Louis, we urge you to reject the arrest-andincarcerate status quo of public safety that continues to fail vulnerable communities of color. The daily violence that has devastated families and neighborhoods across our city is neither a random spike in social deviance, nor—as some have suggested—a function of inadequate cooperation with local police. It is a result of decades of economic disinvestment, political neglect, and oppressive state violence, including the unyielding seizure and caging of young black men in a dehumanizing criminal legal system.

We are hardly the first to note this troubling pattern, nor are we the only ones to protest it now. In recent days, we saw yet another column from Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist Tony Messenger titled “Want to help cure violence in St. Louis? Close the Workhouse.” The next day, Treasurer Tishaura O. Jones rightly stated that “The Rex/Krewson approach to public safety doesn’t work.” Last month, Circuit Attorney Kimberly Gardner released a policy memo that declared, “Our over-reliance on

incarceration is not making us safer” and it “is time to take a new approach that no longer relies on incarceration as the default solution.”

Judge Hogan rules wrong on Lamar Johnson

Courts cannot turn a blind eye to new evidence that exonerates the wrongly convicted

By U.S. Rep.

Wm. Lacy Clay For The St. Louis American

n Our communities are crying out for freedom and resources. The Workhouse steals both.

We were hopeful when we heard the news of Mayor Lyda Krewson’s change of heart in favor of emergency funding for the Cure Violence program that this might be the beginning of a new, holistic approach to public safety. Unfortunately, if this week’s reporting is accurate, she, Public Safety Director Jimmie Edwards, and Police Chief John Hayden have since come before many of you to tout a plan rooted in doubling down on police and surveillance in communities impacted by violence. (And, of course, offering $25,000 rewards for information from the mayor’s favorite billionaire supporter.)

Our communities need investment. They need support and services. They need opportunity. And that could be made possible in part through reallocation of the $16 million currently being spent every year on a decrepit Workhouse jail that precisely no one needs. Nor do we need

a newer, shinier version. When we last wrote to you in March, there were 863 people being held in both city jails on city charges. Today, there are 707 people. The city Justice Center has a capacity of 860 people. You may recall that the mayor’s chief of staff at the time had a lot of words about the “complexities and nuances” standing in the way of basic math. What is the excuse now?

This is not a trivial or symbolic issue. Our communities are crying out for freedom and resources. The Workhouse steals both. The money we are spending on the Workhouse to disastrous effect can be used to fully fund effective violence prevention programs like Cure Violence; to help establish community health, education, and employment centers; to fund youth programs; to support community-based pretrial services; and much, much more.

Months ago, Comptroller Darlene Green wrote that closing the Workhouse “is the right thing to do” and that it can be done quickly. It was true then, and it is true now. Lives literally depend on getting this right. Which side of history will you be on?

It is time to combat violence by reinvesting in our communities. It is time to close the Workhouse.

Like many St. Louisans, I vigorously applauded Circuit Attorney Kimberly Gardner’s efforts and actions to develop, fund, and staff a Conviction Integrity Unit. This unit was a crucial step in a muchneeded healing and restorative belief in the St. Louis criminal justice system. Its agenda ensured that our prosecutors as well as our police officers would work in the public interest with the highest level of integrity.

In the Lamar Johnson case, resulting from the Conviction Integrity Unit review, sadly we see that not much has changed. I cannot fully express my dismay at the decision handed down by Circuit Judge Elizabeth B. Hogan. Judge Hogan chose to operate in contravention of a sense of justice that courts usually display and uphold.

New evidence uncovered by Gardner’s Conviction Integrity Unit detail fabricated evidence, secret payments,

and undue pressure placed upon a witness. Further, the sole eyewitness recanted his testimony in 2003. Due to prosecutorial misconduct, there is no way a reliable verdict could be had.

n I am equally dismayed by the attitude and actions of Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt.

However, Judge Hogan seemed unusually more concerned about a potential “conflict of interest” in the Circuit Attorney’s Office than in the interest of justice for a man wrongfully convicted.

This cannot be the state of justice in America.

The courts cannot turn a blind eye to newly discovered evidence that exonerates those wrongly convicted. The court has an obligation to intervene and right the wrongs. This court clings to procedural rules as opposed to a sense of justice and fair play. Such an antiquated stance has no place in the modern era of criminal justice.

It is never the wrong time to do the right thing for Lamar Johnson. I support Kimberly Gardner’s efforts to restore our

faith in the impartiality and honor of our public servants. Judge Hogan’s ruling further erodes the public’s trust in the courts, police and the entire justice process. I am equally dismayed by the attitude and actions of Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt. Upon receiving my call, Missouri’s attorney general had no sense of urgency to weigh in and assist an innocent man who has sat in jail for over 20 years. Lamar Johnson deserves better. It is never too late to do the right thing. The actions of these officials are shameful and should not be what equity, impartiality, and justice for all looks like.

U.S. Rep. Wm. Lacy Clay (D-St. Louis) represents Missouri’s 1st Congressional District.

We share the calls for action and change from our community

We are heartened by the number of black leaders, young and seasoned, who are turning to us as St. Louis seeks to more directly confronts its gun violence epidemic

that is leaving young people, including so many children, dead on our streets. Elected officials (St. Louis Treasurer Tishaura O. Jones, soonto-be state Rep. Rasheen Aldridge), community leaders

and groups (Rev. Starsky D. Wilson, the Close the Workhouse Campaign), and public education officials (Superintendent Kelvin R. Adams of Saint Louis Public Schools, interim-President

Harris-Stowe: committed to addressing gun violence against children

By Dwayne Smith

For The St. Louis American

I was disheartened to learn of yet another death of a black child due to gun violence. Though I did not personally know eight-year-old Jurnee Thompson, who was one of the latest victims, her senseless demise touched me deeply.

I am a product of the Westside/ WellsGoodfellow neighborhood. The restaurant where Jurnee was killed was the local place that for decades many Soldan High School students, including myself, went after a football game. Growing up, Cabanne Branch Library, situated right next to the restaurant, was my second home. According to news reports, Jurnee lost her life just spending time with her family after a football game. The loss of Jurnee and the other children to gun violence is all the more profound in that a majority of them were simply just being children – playing, standing in front of their homes, and out with siblings or caretakers. Their deaths leave behind grieving parents, friends, and schools reeling with another incomprehensible loss. Sadly, St. Louis is not alone in the increase of deaths of children due to gun violence. It is sobering to realize that across the nation, AfricanAmerican children, specifically African-American boys, lead all ethnic groups in being the victim of this type of violence. Studies suggest that AfricanAmerican children are more

likely to be a victim of gun violence than their racial peers. Of the recently reported gun deaths of children in the St. Louis region, 100 percent were African-American. What is not discussed much in these tragedies are the longterm effects of gun and other types of violence inflicted upon African-American children.

There is a misunderstanding that African-American children are more resilient than others and that they will eventually get over the persistent trauma of the violence to which they have been victimized or witnessed. While AfricanAmerican children possess what appears to be indomitable grit, they are still children at a critical developmental stage. Constant exposure to violence and trauma has severe negative consequences. Research indicates that these children will suffer the longterm effects of violence, including post-traumatic stress disorder, anger, aggressive tendencies, depression, helplessness, a numbing and acceptance of future violence, internalization of the nihilistic aspects of their environment, being detached and uncaring, and becoming violent themselves. Studies also posit that as these children mature into adulthood, they may have a myriad of issues to contend with and, in all likelihood, will suffer from emotional and mental health challenges, drug and alcohol abuse, risky behavior and crime. However, there are those children who, in spite of their environments, do thrive and rise above the trauma of violence.

St. Louis is really a tale of two cities in which publications tout the city as one of the best in the U.S. with a thriving arts and sports scene.

It then becomes all too easy to be dismissive and believe this is an issue only in certain zip codes and comforted with the belief that overall the region is faring well. However, how great can a city be when you have some of its most vulnerable citizens – its children – having the same environmental challenges as a child in a war-torn foreign country? This irony is not lost on those outside St. Louis viewing our region.

The region must examine gun violence in our communities as a health crisis with severe implications for years to come. We must marshal our resources, the sheer will and the courage to confront this problem at its core.

As interim president of Harris-Stowe State University, I am firmly committed to having our institution provide a platform where the difficult challenges that confront our city can be tackled. In the very near future, we will convene a symposium on the impact of violence on children with the outcome to create a solutionbased framework. This will be one of many events and activities planned this academic year to challenge, inspire and move the region towards action.

Harris-Stowe State University historically has been on the vanguard as an institution of higher learning, providing access to higher education to a diverse group of individuals and transforming lives. Healthy communities produce healthy citizens, which in turn produces a thriving city. Our children deserve this.

Dwayne Smith is the interim president of HarrisStowe State University and a Fulbright Scholar.

Dwayne Smith of HarrisStowe State University) all turned to us to share with the community their cries of anguish and calls to action and change. To share more of these voices, we yield

our own editorial space this week, while adding that we strongly affirm the many calls to action and change from these strong community voices. In particular, St. Louis should

Letters to the Editor

Note to the black hooded and bandana-wearing killers of our black men, women and children: I am calling you out as black Klu Klux Klansmen causing the genocide of your own people, man. Where is your mind, man? What is your purpose, man? What is

close the Workhouse as a start to investing in revitalizing our most vulnerable rather than criminalizing poverty and deepening despair.

All letters are edited for length and style.

Note to black Klu Klux Klansmen your need, man, to get you to stop the violence, man? The drugs, alcohol, guns and lack of education has distorted your vision of self and others, man. You are doing the work of the white Klansmen against your people, man. Wake up and change your ways and get the help you need, man. As the Obamas recited, you need to “rise above” your life situation and live wisely, man. Find love for yourself and your people, man. Peace.

Diann Buckley St. Louis

Having marveled at the splendid, state-of-the-art structure being built on Kingshighway across from Forest Park, I ventured just over five minutes further north, finding my eyes falling on a street named in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. – he who dreamed of bridging the nation’s divides – presently

Up and down in St. Louis draped in dust and decades of despair. Indeed, it seems that throughout many segments of the city, new buildings go up, while in North St. Louis, old buildings fall down. To say that St. Louis is a tale of two cities would hardly be a novel statement. As the city scrambles to save the children, I beseech St. Louis’ political

leadership to consider what such a routine and explicit demonstration of where investment dollars venture (and avoid!) does to the morale and the minds of little black kids living north of the great Delmar Divide.

Arthurine Harris St. Louis

One of the largest weekly newspapers in Missouri CAC Audited 100% independently owned & operated

Columnist

Wm. Lacy Clay

Guest Columnist

Dwayne Smith

Circuit Judge Elizabeth B. Hogan

Lamar Johnson

Supervised writing

Saint Louis Public Schools Superintendent Kelvin Adams connected with Zyair Hamilton, 9, while visiting his fourth grade class at Pierre Laclede Junior Career Academy in the city’s Walnut Park neighborhood on the first day of school. Schools continued to open for the fall semester this week.

Scholarship Foundation hosting free financial aid workshops

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) will be available on October 1. Completion of the FAFSA is a critical step in applying for financial aid. High school seniors and current college students applying for financial aid for the 2020-21 academic year will want to file the FAFSA as soon after October 1 as possible at fafsa.gov.

The FAFSA uses tax information from two years prior to the aid year for which the student is applying, so for the 2020-21 year this will be tax information from 2018. Students can transfer tax information directly from the IRS into the FAFSA.

The Scholarship Foundation will host free workshops to explain the FAFSA, its importance, and how to complete the application. Two workshops are scheduled:

Wednesday, September 11, 6:30-7:30 p.m. and Wednesday, September 25, 6:30-7:30 pm.

Financial Aid Basics Workshop helps students learn about different sources of financial aid, private scholarships, and comparing best options. Two workshops are scheduled: Wednesday, October 16, 6:30-7:30 pm and Wednesday, November 6, 6:30-7:30 pm. The workshops will be held at The Scholarship Foundation office, 6825 Clayton Ave, Suite 100, St. Louis, MO 63139. All workshops are free and open to the public; registration is appreciated for all workshops, but not required. For more information or to register, call 314-725-7990 or email info@sfstl. org.

Black families are underserved and overcharged

By Charlene Crowell

For The St. Louis American

New research analyzes the strong connection between disproportionate wealth and financial services and products that are either shared or denied with consumers of color. Authored by the McKinsey Global Institute (MGI), “The Economic Impact of Closing the Racial Wealth Gap” identifies key sources of the nation’s socioeconomic inequity with its accompanying racial and gender dynamics along with family savings, incomes, and community context.

“Black families are underserved and overcharged by institutions that can provide the best channels for saving,” states the report. “For instance, banks in predominantly black neighborhoods require higher minimum balances ($871) than banks in white neighborhoods do ($626). Unsurprisingly, 30 percent of black families are underserved by their banks, and 17 percent are completely disconnected from the mainstream banking system because of a lack of assets and a lack of trust in financial institutions.”

step it points to a widening racial wealth gap between black families and white families.”

When student loan debts and criminal incarcerations are factored into the racial wealth divide, an even more bleak scenario is disclosed.

Additionally, according to the MGI report, the nation’s overall economy is affected by racial wealth gaps, estimating that between 2019 and 2028, the cost of economic losses to the general economy will be in the range of $1.0-$1.5 trillion.

Black America’s “racialized disadvantage” was created through historical forces – including private business practices and public policies that together advantaged white consumers while often excluding or relegating black Americans. For example, the National Housing Act of 1934 limited housing options for black Americans by assigning a D-rating to neighborhoods in general decline and occupied by lowerincome residents.

In 2017, the Federal Reserve in found that black consumers are 73 percent more likely than whites to lack a credit score due to “credit redlining.” This term refers to where a consumer lives to be the central determining factor in whether to approve credit, rather than the actual credit profile.

“This study represents a critical look at the key components of wealth-building: access to community and family assets, ability to save, access to homeownership and availability of good jobs,” said Tom Feltner, director of Research with the Center for Responsible Lending (CRL). “At every

“Incarceration is estimated to reduce annual wages by 40 percent – not including the lost wages during the time served – for the formerly incarcerated,” states the MGI report. It also “reduces their economic mobility, and even increases the risk of school expulsion six times for their children.” For black women, gender brings a dual “wage penalty”, according to the report. Median earnings for black women are only 65 percent as much as those earned by white men, and 89 percent of median earnings for black men. Black women typically borrow more in student loans, so their lower earnings bring stronger financial challenges in repayment years. As a result of these and other factors, the median wealth of a single black woman is only $200, while that of a single white man is $28,900.

Both male and female black college graduates are prone to support their families more so than their white college classmates. The financial assistance shared with older family members reduces the amount of disposable dollars that might have contributed more to paying down student debt or beginning financial investments like mutual funds or certificates of deposit.

“Financial innovation and debt, even if well underwritten, can never undo historical racial discrimination that results in financial marginalization,” said Aracely Panameño, CRL’s director of Latino Affairs. “Moving forward this situation can only be addressed through bold federal and state laws and policies that create equity of opportunity for all.”

Authors of the MGI report would likely agree.

“A number of simultaneous and mutually reinforcing initiatives will likely be necessary,” states the report. “This work will be neither simple nor easy, but targeted, productive efforts will likely strengthen the economy, increase economic and social equity, and improve the quality of life for families.”

Charlene Crowell is the Center for Responsible Lending’s communications deputy director. She can be reached at Charlene.crowell@responsiblelending.org.

Charlene Crowell

Photo by Wiley Price

living room to welcome and console me as brothers when I came home from school the next day. In that moment of loss, I needed that reminder that I was loved by other people, appreciated before the tragedy and surrounded by a community of support.

Right now, as gun violence takes away their sisters and brothers, St. Louis’ children are traumatized and griefstricken with loss, looking around for loving support. How will we answer?

Last month, my nineyear old son, Mason, went to St. Louis City Hall with more than 160 kindergarten through fifth grade scholars from our Children’s Defense Fund Freedom Schools to ask city leaders to do something. Michael, a 15-year old in University City, born into a youth ministry I led, reached out to me Sunday because he feels God calling him to respond to the violence. My son, Starsky, is a student at McKinley Leadership Academy, with two teens shot last week near a football game. They all want something to be done about gun violence in our streets. And while it may calm their immediate anxieties to have someone held accountable, more than anything else they need to know that someone cares and is willing to be present alongside them. Their teachers, school administrators, ministers and community social workers are doing their best.

They don’t need press conferences by elected officials to publicly shame or deflect responsibility to neighbors around them. These young people need city leaders

SLPS

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has received additional media attention because she was shot an hour after a district event at a restaurant a quartermile away from Soldan High School. Our public response has been limited, given that it remains an open police investigation, as do so many gun-related crimes in our community. Whenever crime impacts one of our students, it is our practice to cooperate fully with law enforcement. Our

to invest in ongoing, proactive supports for them and their thriving. They need a manifest expression of commitment to their well-being. They need to know this city loves them, appreciated them before the tragedy and will surround them with supports.

St. Louis’ demonstrated commitment to children must begin where all public priorities begin: Room 200 of City Hall in the Office of the Mayor. In the context of this emergency, there are three actions Mayor Lyda Krewson can take to demonstrate caring support for our children and youth that will not further criminalize them and their communities.

First, she should staff and fund the role of “Commissioner of Youth Services” called for in the St. Louis City Charter. In a candidate forum at Saint Louis University before the 2016 election, I asked thenAlderwoman Krewson whether she would take this step. She said, “Yes.” The position is currently (and perennially) vacant.

The Youth Services Division under the leadership of said commissioner is called by charter to “Convene meetings, maintain liaison and encourage cooperation between all agencies; public and private dealing with youths in St. Louis; provide information on year-round youth needs and youth programs; serve as referral agency for utilization of voluntary services; serve as a fundraising catalyst to augment usual resources applied to youth activities; accept private gifts and federal grants; promote public awareness of problems of youths and encourage development of possible solutions for their problems; and seek to eliminate duplication of effort and funds in youth service agency through coordination and communication.”

Safety and Security team engages on a near-daily basis with various divisions of the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, and we are thankful for their partnership and efforts to protect our children. We join with them in seeking your support to help stop gun violence and solve these reprehensible crimes.

On Monday morning, we sent crisis teams – a group of seasoned social workers, nurses and counselors – or emotional support provided by one of our community partners to 10 schools impacted by the violence that occurred the previous weekend.

Second, she should reconvene the Mayor’s Commission on Children Youth and Families. Shortly after her election in 2016, I went to Room 200. On the agenda were racial equity and child well-being (although the first part of the meeting ended up de-briefing the session she had just completed asking for more funding for what she perceived as a shortage of police). I asked if she had reviewed the recommendations and staff memos from Mayor’s Slay’s previous Commission for Children, Youth and Families. Perhaps understandable for such an early visit, at that point she had not.

The commission was the gathering place for child service providers,

philanthropies, school administrators and city officials (with the presence and participation of the mayor) to work through tough issues. It was at that table that the first regional plan for youth and gun violence prevention was crafted in 2012. I asked privately and followed up with staff and the office regularly for the continuity of this body. As yet, it does not appear. But, I wonder if it were still gathered what may have been in place this summer for the children who were lost to violence and those desperate enough to commit it.

Finally, Mayor Krewson can actually fully fund the Cure Violence initiative with a $1.5 million allocation. Deaconess Foundation’s partners in the

n The weight of this loss of life is heavy to all involved: school staff, counselors, social workers, police, neighbors, community leaders and, our primary focus, children and their families.

The weight of this loss of life is heavy to all involved: school staff, counselors, social workers, police, neighbors, community leaders and, our primary focus, children and their families. It is hard to rise up from the weight, but we all must take a stand and report behavior that threatens the safety of children. Violence of any kind has no place in our schools or neighborhoods. What is happening to our young people in this

Safety

Continued from A1

So what can we do now to protect our children? We cannot double down on outdated, ineffective, expensive “arrest and incarcerate” criminal justice tactics. This is not the transformative change St. Louis needs. There is no silver bullet for violence, but we can act by doing the following:

• Decrease poverty by raising minimum wages for city workers to $15/hour or more and encourage local businesses to do the same;

• Fully fund evidence-based violence prevention models for every neighborhood with violent crime;

community and in others across the country is unacceptable and must be addressed. Our children are not replaceable. Our children and this community deserve better.

At the beginning of this school year, SLPS joined with Better Family Life on the Neighborhood Net project, which provided extra sets of eyes at 225 bus stops in two hot zones in the city. Why? Because we have always worked with entities that

• #CloseTheWorkhouse and invest the $16 million annual savings into prevention programs;

• Increase access to medical treatment for mental health and substance abuse;

• Donate to the St. Louis Public Schools Foundation and fund social services to give our families the education and support they need for a better future; and

• Invest in financial empowerment programs, including College Kids, and mortgage lending programs, to help our communities invest in themselves and reduce the racial wealth gap.

Reducing poverty isn’t just about freeing up more money to fight crime. Police have difficulty solving

Coalition Against Police Crimes and Repression have done a remarkable job investigating and socializing the concept. It was their work that our Freedom School Scholars were building upon in their July visits. I’m glad to see the $500,00 allocation. But, as the mayor knows, adequate funding to pilot the model in two neighborhoods is $1.2 to $1.5 million. Perhaps the recent generosity of her campaign donors can be extended for this purpose.

Of course, most answers to limited investment in children and youth are the same: “We don’t have the money. How will we pay for it?” Here, again, I rely on old conversations. If the mayor would close and divest from

present solid plans to protect and serve our children. We look forward to continuing to support that initiative and welcome others.

If you have an idea for how SLPS can partner with your organization to keep children safe, we welcome your input. Contact Volunteer and Mentor Services Director Ryonnel Jackson at 314-345-4577 or Ryonnel.Jackson@slps.org.

Additionally, the Board of Education of the City of St. Louis is hosting a special work session on Thursday, September 5, 2019, at Vashon High School at 6 p.m. to gather input about how we can come together to tackle the issues facing our community. We hope you will join us. I also encourage you to call

crimes because they devote too much of their time dealing with the symptoms of poverty. Evidencebased programs realize that communities, not police, prevent violence. Prevention models such as Cure Violence, Focused Deterrence, or The Richmond Model provide community members with jobs, stipends, and other resources as alternatives to criminal activity.

Stop the violence

Student leadership at Cardinal Ritter College Prep told school leadership that they wanted to focus on the continuous violence that has impacted children in our region as they started the new school year on Monday, August 19. So students made signs declaring messages of non-violence they then displayed in a march.

the Medium Security Institution (the Workhouse), she could invest the $16 million saved into health and human service efforts like these.

Let’s use the arms of city government to gather around and support our grieving children. Madame Mayor, won’t you lead us? Rev. Dr. Starsky D. Wilson is president and CEO of Deaconess Foundation and board chair for the National Committee for Responsive Philanthropy. Deaconess Foundation and the Deaconess Center for Child Well-Being pursues child well-being through public policy and racial equity. Follow him at @revdrstarsky and @ deaconessfound.

St. Louis CrimeStoppers at 1-866-371-8477 if you have any information related to the shooting deaths of 10-year-old Eddie Hall, 3-year-old Kennedi Powell, 8-year-old Jurnee Thompson, 2-year-old Kayden Johnson and 7-year-old Xavier Usanga. The organization is offering a $25,000 award now through September 1 for information deemed to be of value. You can also call the SLPS Security Hotline 314-241-7577 to make an anonymous report. We can never do enough to protect our children. We welcome your ideas and partnership to create a safer world for our kids. Kelvin R. Adams is superintendent of Saint Louis Public Schools.

Additionally, locking up people for minor drug infractions can lead to a negative relationship with the same community they are trying to police. Holding citizens for long periods of time who cannot afford bail in the jail or Workhouse further erodes trust in the justice system. As a result, community members may be less willing to work with the police to solve violent crimes. Improving community interactions with the police will lead to a higher rate of crimes being solved. Our children are worth more than $25,000 and one week. Our children’s futures are priceless and limitless. Let’s use a portion of the city’s $23 million surplus, and savings from closing the Workhouse, to invest in real, transformative change. No more ineffective jails or tax giveaways for wealthy developers. It’s time to invest in people.

Tishaura O. Jones is the treasurer of the City of St. Louis, the first woman and first African-American woman in that position. The College Kids program she started, following a Ferguson Commission recommendation for child college savings accounts, has helped 13,500 city students save nearly $1 million for higher education.

Photo by Nicholas Coulter

Salute

Continued from A1 this community.”

They are so much a package deal that Adams believes the phrase “dynamic duo” should be permanently changed to “Charles and Shirley.”

Laughing at her husband’s joke, Karen Collins-Adams agreed wholeheartedly.

“They have given a lifetime to the community,” said Collins-Adams, who is the principal at Townsend Elementary and worked under Charles Brown in the Wellston School District. “That teaches a lesson to all of us. Both of them have shown us that it’s important to stay connected to the community, and they do that through their work.”

Put together, Charles and Shirley Brown have spent more than 100 years working in education in Missouri, almost entirely in St. Louis. Both started their teaching careers at elementary schools in the late 1960s, and they still are actively involved in educational programs today, though technically retired.

Much of Shirley Brown’s work stems from her formation of desegregation initiatives through the Saint Louis Public Schools’ School Partnership Program, starting in 1981. In that role, she coordinated more than 300 partnerships between the district and community supporters, including Fortune 500 companies, cultural institutions, hospitals, governmental agencies, professional sports teams and the media. Out of these partnerships, she still helps students build a foundation in the medical field through the ongoing initiatives at the medical schools of Washington University and University of Missouri at Columbia. She is still active with the KSDK Channel 5 partnership as well.

“I can’t say that I’ve stopped,” said Shirley Brown. “I’ve slowed down. The passion is still there. The things that I do, I couldn’t do without Charlie. We’re a team. The kids

get a kick out of us, and we love it.”

After serving in various roles at the Saint Louis Public School District from 1969 to 2002, Charles Brown ultimately became the assistant commissioner of teacher quality and urban education for the State of Missouri. He also served as the superintendent of Wellston School District for four years when it was struggling to regain its accreditation.

Charles Brown is among the original New Orleans Saints

football players of 1967, where he played for about two years before going on to the British Columbia Lions. He sees a lot of similarities between his educational and football careers.

“You have the same challenges,” Charles Brown said. “You have losses, you have gains. You don’t want to take learning lightly. You have to be focused and have to have goals. More importantly, you have to be a team player.”

When Charles Brown was a coach for football and track

in his early years in SLPS, Shirley Brown was “coaching from the sidelines” right there with him, said their son, Daniel R. Brown, an attorney.

“They said, ‘Your mom was tougher on us than your dad was,’” he said, laughing. “I am always being approached by their former students telling me how much they impacted their lives.”

A chance meeting

As a freshman football star at Mizzou, Charles Brown said

he noticed a young lady “with Betty Davis eyes” carrying her laundry basket one day and offered his help.

“He asked if I knew who he was,” Shirley Brown said. “I said, ‘Everyone knows who you are.’ He ran back to the dorm and got some of his dirty clothes, so our first date was at the laundromat.”

Charles Brown then tells the second part of the story. Later that evening, all the football players in the dorms were teasing him that he never got any dates. In order to prove

that he did, he called Shirley Brown that night.

“I asked her out, and she hung up on me,” he said. “But I kept on talking like she was going to give me a chance. ‘How about Saturday?’ ‘Yea, sure that’s fine.’ All the guys thought I had a date, but she actually had hung up on me.”

After graduating from Mizzou in 1965, Shirley Brown was hired as the first African-American teacher at Russell Boulevard Elementary School in Columbia, Missouri. In 1967, she was hired to work in public relations with the New Orleans Saints football club. Returning to St. Louis in 1970, Shirley Brown held various teaching positions before becoming the program coordinator for the SLPS School Partnership Program in 1981. In her career, she secured in-kind contributions of nearly $4 million for the school district. She also facilitated math and science programs honored as among the “100 Best Partnerships in America.”

Charles Brown graduated from Mizzou in 1967. Both Charles and Shirley Brown when on to earn master’s degrees from Washington University. And from Iowa State University, Shirley Brown earned a master’s degree and Charles Brown earned a doctorate.

After his football career, Charles Brown was a teacher, coach and administrator at various SLPS schools, including Mark Twain Elementary, Central High School and Roosevelt High School. He then became an SLPS deputy superintendent of various departments before becoming the assistant state commissioner and then heading to the Wellston School District.

“They have never said ‘no’ to anything that we’ve asked them to do,” Kelvin R. Adams said. “They’ve never said ‘no’ to others and they don’t come giving advice. They come giving themselves, which I think is much more than advice.”

The Science of Art

LaStarsha McGarity wants to combine art and science into a career, and the Saint Louis Art Museum is pleased to have helped make her dreams and aspirations come true. McGarity arrived at the Museum in August 2018 to begin a one-year internship in the Museum’s conservation department. When asked why she chose the Saint Louis Art Museum for her year-long internship, McGarity responded, “I felt SLAM would provide the right opportunity for me to learn about both unique and routine hands-on conservation treatments.”

With more than 34,000 works of art in the Art Museum’s collection, McGarity has worked on a wide variety of conservation projects, in addition to standard treatments such as polishing silver and dusting ceramics. During your next visit to the Museum, be sure to check out Richard Serra’s To Encircle Base Plate Hexagram, Right Angles Inverted in the asphalt of Fine Arts Drive between the front steps of the Museum and the St. Louis sculpture. McGarity and a team cleaned the metal, coated the embedded surfaces with a protective coating, and installed it in the roadway with a system that helps reduce rust occurrence. McGarity also had the opportunity to work on Al Loving’s painting titled Zayamaca #4, a gift of the Ollie family, for the upcoming exhibition The Shape of Abstraction: Selections from the Ollie Collection. This sculptural painting is comprised of a paper collage painted with acrylic and mounted to plexiglas. The artwork was disassembled, and a stiffening material was adhered between the layers with archival materials to improve inherent structural weaknesses. McGarity especially enjoyed the numerous personal interactions she had while conserving the art. She spoke with Ron Ollie, the collector who gave the Loving painting to the Museum, and the artist’s estate, managed by Mara Kearney Loving, about Loving’s working style, artistic vision, and expressed wishes about the life of his art.

McGarity is completing a Master’s of Art in Art Conservation and a Certificate of Advanced Study in Conservation Science in the Patricia H. and Richard E. Garman Art Conservation Department at SUNY Buffalo State College. In addition to her internship at the Art Museum, McGarity has gained invaluable experience with internships and fellowships at Museum of Mississippi History, Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, Brooklyn Museum of Art, Texas Southern University, Cleveland Museum of Art,

Smithsonian’s National Museum of African Art, and Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture.

McGarity finds the combination of art and science in conservation fascinating and feels connected to the stories that each piece she works on can tell. As an HBCU alumna, she hopes to encourage and support more students of color to pursue a career in conservation and to encourage the current field to serve communities and institutions of color better. According to the Art Museum Demographic Survey of 2018, people of color comprise only 11 percent of conservation professionals and only 4 percent of the new hires between 2015 – 2018.

The Saint Louis Art Museum’s Conservation Department opened in 1963 with one painting conservator. Today the department includes a director of conservation with nearly ten conservators and technicians conserving not only painting but also textiles, paper, and objects. McGarity bids farewell to St. Louis and begins the final step in her training to be a museum conservator with a three-year Andrew W. Mellon Foundation Fellow at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, DC starting in September. We know that McGarity will be a great addition to the museum conservation field.

Charles and Shirley Brown will jointly receive the Lifetime Achiever in Education Award at the St. Louis American Foundation’s 2019 Salute to Excellence in Education Gala on Saturday, September 21.

Photo by Rebecca Rivas

Open letter to Gov. Parson about gun violence in St. Louis

Rasheen Aldridge – the Democratic nominee for state representative for the 78th District, 5th Ward committeeman in St. Louis and formerly the youngest member of the Ferguson Commission –wrote the following open letter to Gov. Mike Parson

My name is Rasheen Aldridge, and I am the Democratic nominee for state representative for the 78th District. We haven’t met but I have heard from my predecessor, state Rep. Bruce Franks Jr., that you are a good man who truly cares about the wellbeing of our entire state, no matter the zip code. I had been looking forward to working with you, as I had been told that you were passionate about finding solutions to reduce crime and gun violence in our cities and rural areas alike. So, it was with great disappointment that I read that you had dismissed the idea of a Special Session to reduce violence in communities like mine.

naming youth violence a public health epidemic passed the Senate. I watched you sign that bill and talk of the importance in recognizing this problem.

I was proud to see that bi-partisan passion in tackling something that is killing so many in our state. So, let’s get to work and put some teeth to it.

You stated, “Special Session is not the correct avenue. If we are to change violent criminal acts in Missouri, it will take all of us at the federal, state, local, and community levels working together toward a common goal.”

I agree with you that it will take all of these entities to solve this issue, but why would anyone at a federal level take that seriously if we are not willing to treat it as the emergency that this is?

You’ve had a long career in the legislature, and I know you are not a stranger to the difficulty in getting bills heard if the speaker or committee chair has no desire to push forth that legislation. For this reason, a Special Session is necessary, as this issue cannot continue to be buried under hundreds of bills that seem to take precedent – such as naming highways and official Missouri bourbon standards – with the current makeup of our body.

I watched you personally proceed over the dais when Rep. Franks’ bill HCR 70

A Special Session is the only way for our political body to sit down and be forced to reckon with this public health epidemic without political distraction, without political personal grievance, without political vote trading, without political indifference. My community cannot afford to lose any more children. Our state cannot afford to be plagued with violence for our human health’s sake and, quite honestly, for our economic health’s sake. I have to live in fear that, if elected in November, I may not make it to my swearing-in, and my constituents fear their babies not coming home. We must act now. I beg you.

We need to break the cycle of violence now

State Representative Steve Roberts (D-St. Louis), chairman of the Missouri Legislative Black Caucus, also released a commentary on gun violence alongside the caucus’ failed attempt to get Parson to call a Special Session.

The community is once again in shock and mourning for the senseless murder of another innocent child, a young girl, which brought the number of victims to 12 this year alone. She had recently attended our back-toschool fair. We hardly have the time to mourn one young life lost when another life is taken. In fact, between writing this on Saturday and sending out a call for Governor Parson to add legislation to help deal with the crisis, yet another child fell victim to this epidemic of gun violence.

There has to be an immediate response on several fronts. First, because there will soon be more high school football games that can become potential flash points, I’m calling on Governor Parson to have the Missouri Highway Patrol coordinate with the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department and Saint Louis Public Schools to have more security at these games. The school districts also need to organize more adult volunteers to attend the games to quickly alert authorities to problems. I have also written the

One of the parties goes to their car and starts spraying bullets in the general direction of another, and innocent children and bystanders are injured and killed. We need to require a course in every school on deescalating violence and for adult volunteers to become certified in these methods as well.

We also need to get these guns, mostly stolen, off our streets. That takes citizens turning in the names of those selling illegal weapons. We need all responsible parents and adults to say enough is enough. It is time to speak up if you know who took a life because that person will likely take another or a dozen more innocent lives. We all want more job opportunities for young people, more social programs to assist our communities. These things I will fight for. But we also need to break the cycle of violence now by taking those immediate steps that can be taken.

Board of Freeholders applications being taken

Anyone wishing to apply for the Board of Freeholders that will consider possible future changes to the governmental structure of the St. Louis region should apply now.

governor ask that he add this crisis to the Special Session of the Missouri General Assembly which he has already called. Writing as chair of the Missouri Legislative Black Caucus, on behalf of our caucus, I specifically called for debate on legislation to allow local governments to pass their own common-sense gun regulations. We know where most of the violence and shootings are occurring, and they are mostly within a few square miles. There should be a comprehensive way to flood the zone, first with twice the

Carole Scott (nee McGhee)

number of police in areas experiencing high levels of violence, and second with assistance from the State Highway Patrol as well. Third, there should be door to door canvassing by clergy and social agencies to address community concerns and to encourage cooperation on ridding the neighborhood of gang and drug violence and illegal weapons.

Next, we need everyone to realize that young people driving around St. Louis with guns in their cars are ticking time bombs. In the heat of the moment, a careless insult turns into an argument. An argument turns into a fight.

Applications currently are being accepted. Though no deadline was stated in the announcement, the Municipal League of Metro St. Louis, which initiated the petition process, plans to submit its completed petition to the election boards in the St. Louis County and city in midSeptember. From the date the petition is certified, County Executive Sam Page, Mayor Lyda Krewson, and Governor Mike Parson will have 10 days to submit their Board of Freeholders nominations. Nineteen members will make up the Board of Freeholders. Page and Krewson will each appoint nine members, and Parson will appoint one. The nominations must be approved by the St. Louis County Council and the St. Louis Board of Aldermen. The Board of Freeholders will have up to one year to formulate a plan, which would be voted on by residents in the county and the city. To receive or submit an application, email emierzejewski@stlouisco. com. For more information on the Board of Freeholders, visit stlmuni.org/board-offreeholders.

Rasheen Aldridge, the Democratic nominee for state representative for the 78th District, 5th Ward committeeman in St. Louis and formerly the youngest member of the Ferguson Commission

Steve Roberts Jr.

Improving prospects for preemies

Stable home life most important in predicting psychiatric health

Photo By Matt Miller

Four-day-old Abel Stanart is participating in a new study, directed by Cynthia E. Rogers, MD, that is attempting to dig even deeper into what predicts risk of mental health-related issues and resilience in children who are born early.

issues, including cognitive problems, language difficulties and motor delays.

As they grow and develop, children who were born at least 10 weeks before their due dates are at risk for attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder and anxiety disorders. They also have a higher risk than children who were full-term babies for other neurodevelopmental

Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis who have been trying to determine what puts such children at risk for these problems have found that their mental health may be related less to medical challenges they face after birth than to the environment the babies enter once they leave the newborn

intensive care unit (NICU).

In a new study, the children who were most likely to have overcome the complications of being born so early and who showed normal psychiatric and neurodevelopmental outcomes also were those with healthier, more nurturing mothers and more stable home lives.

By Gail C. Christopher For The St. Louis American

Throughout the world, extreme racism, nationalism, anti-Semitism and other ethnic and religious biases are sustained by an antiquated notion that the human family can be ranked by physical characteristics and ascribed traits. This hierarchy of human value that fuels racist behavior like the El Paso shootings and hate rhetoric like the “Go Back” chants targeting four minority congresswomen is the foundation for those seeking political gains in a divided society. The ill-conceived belief that skin color determines whether someone is inferior or superior has hardened barriers among populations, leaving racist, xenophobic and anti-immigrant behavior ingrained in America and other nations. In the U.S., it perpetuated the enslavement of blacks, genocide among Indigenous people and the embrace of institutionalized racism for centuries.

It must stop.

But uprooting the false belief in the hierarchy of human value won’t come easy.

n Fear and anxiety, separation, alienation and hate induce stress and distress, causing a cascade of illnesses.

This antiquated way of life is a fossil formed during the 14th century and crystallized in the 18th century by Carl Linnaeus, a Swedish botanist, known as the father of taxonomy. Linnaeus first codified the scientific frame of human hierarchy and listed human “races” based on physical appearances and on continents of origin. He placed people like himself – Europeans – at the top of this hierarchy, and he put other so-called “races” in descending order of humanness – with Africans at the bottom. Unlike other fossils, the belief in a hierarchy of human value still lives deeply in hearts and minds today. This idea must end and take its place in museums like other relics. The idea of a predetermined hierarchy must die now, before it kills us all. What’s the answer?

The RxRacial Healing National

City moves sluggishly to fund one Cure Violence site

Community groups brought them here two months ago, mayor still has no contract ready

By Rebecca Rivas Of The St. Louis American

Mayor Lyda Krewson wants to push through an emergency contract with Cure Violence, a violence de-escalation organization favored by local activists, according to a letter she sent to Comptroller Darlene Green on August 20. According to the comptroller, the mayor had plenty of time to act on this matter without it coming to an emergency – and the mayor still had not sent the comptroller a contract when the mayor asked her to rush a contract.

The Cure Violence model — which treats violence as an epidemic outbreak and therefore a public health issue — is active in more than 25 cities throughout the world. The idea is to employ local residents who have respect, often ex-convicts, on the streets to prevent gun violence by de-escalating potentially violent situations before they happen.

As part of the contract, Cure Violence leaders will guide the implementation of their de-escalation model in St. Louis and train

staff. All staff will come from the specific neighborhoods where they will be working, said Marcus McAllister, an international trainer with Cure Violence.

“I travel all over the world doing trainings, but St. Louis is home,” said McAllister, who is based out of Chicago. “I have family down there. I used to live in St. Louis myself. For me, I’m excited because I’ve been saying, ‘Man, they need Cure Violence in St. Louis’ for the last 16 years.”

In June, two community organizations — Organization for Black Struggle (OBS) and the Coalition Against Police Crimes and Repression (CAPCR) — paid thousands of dollars for McAllister to come to St. Louis and complete an assessment. They organized a week-long agenda of meetings with community members, Public Safety Director Jimmie Edwards, leaders of the city Department of Health and other city officials.

John Chasnoff, one of the founders of CAPCR, said they learned about the

mayor’s letter to the comptroller a day before President of the Board of Aldermen Lewis Reed announced it on Twitter on August 21.

McAllister said Cure Violence lawyers have been talking with the city counselor’s office this week and hope to have something finalized as soon as Friday.

After that step is taken, then begins the implementation phase — which means picking an entity to run the program, choosing a site and setting up the hiring panel. This is where Chasnoff believes community input will be crucial.

“It needs community trust in order to function,” Chasnoff said, “and we need to make sure community voices are at the table as we move forward through the implementation phase.” Chasnoff and McAllister both said

See CURE VIOLENCE, A11

Gail C. Christopher

Marcus McAllister, an international trainer with Cure Violence, visited St. Louis on June 21, funded by Organization for Black Struggle and the Coalition Against Police Crimes and Repression.

Photo by Rebecca Rivas

Federal judge blocks Missouri’s

8-week abortion law from taking effect

Preliminary injunction blocking all parts of the law, except a ‘non-discrimination’ section

By Dan Margolies

Of KCUR

A federal judge in Kansas City has blocked Missouri’s eight-week abortion ban from taking effect after midnight on Tuesday, August 27. Senior U.S. District Judge Howard Sachs issued a preliminary injunction blocking all parts of the law, except a “nondiscrimination” section banning abortions on the basis of race, sex or Down syndrome.

Although not a decision on the merits, the ruling is a major victory for the Planned Parenthood clinic in St. Louis, the only remaining abortion provider in Missouri, and its medical director, Colleen McNicholas.

Both challenged the law’s constitutionality in a lawsuit filed last month. In order to secure a preliminary injunction, they needed to show they were likely to prevail on the merits.

The law, which was enacted this year and set to take effect on Wednesday, August 28, would have banned the overwhelming majority of pre-

Cure Violence

Continued from A10

they favored the Department of Health — whose director, Dr. Fredrick Echols, is extremely supportive of the program — being the implementing agency, as it’s done in Kansas City. However, they are open to other options.

On Saturday, McAllister’s uncle, who lives in Alton, called him very upset. He had just heard that eight-year-old Jurnee Thompson was shot and killed after a football game on Friday night.

“There are a lot of situations

Preemies

Continued from A10

The findings were published August 26 in The Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry

“Home environment is what really differentiated these kids,” said first author Rachel E. Lean, PhD, a postdoctoral research associate in child psychiatry.

“Preterm children who did the best had mothers who reported lower levels of depression and parenting stress. These children received more cognitive stimulation in the home, with parents who read to them and did other learningtype activities with their children. There also tended

Christopher

Continued from A10

Mobilization Campaign is activating a critical mass of people committed to working together and healing the wounds of the past as we seek to end racism and the inequities it has created.

By defining racism as stemming from an entrenched belief system, RxRacial Healing provides a platform for launching a new model of relatedness that is grounded in the knowledge of our interconnected and equal worth. With this foundational idea in place, we can shape

viability abortions in Missouri, running afoul of more than four decades of U.S. Supreme Court precedent.

Known as HB 126 or the Missouri Stands for the Unborn Act, the law has four separate bans of abortion at eight, 14, 18 and 20 weeks of gestation. It also prohibits abortions at any stage of pregnancy if the physician “knows” the patient is seeking to terminate her pregnancy on the basis of the race or sex of the child or because it has Down syndrome.

If the eight-week ban is struck down by a court, the 14-week ban takes effect and so on with the other bans.

The law carves out exceptions only for a “medical emergency,” defined as a situation in which the pregnant woman faces death or “substantial and irreversible impairment of a major bodily function.” It contains no exceptions for incest or rape.

Under the law, abortion providers face from five to 15 years in prison and the loss of their medical license if they violate any of the gestational age bans.

that happen spur of the moment, but there is always something that led up to it beforehand,” McAllister said. “If you have the right team in place, they will know about the potential of a shooting.”

The Cure Violence team will engage the two parties and do their best to talk them down, he said. “It’s a matter of who is doing the talking,” McAllister said. “If you get the right people talking to them, they can slow it down.”

The city budget allocated $500,000 for the Cure Violence program, which is a start but will probably only be enough for one site, McAllister said.

The site will only be able

to be more stability in their families. That suggests to us that modifiable factors in the home life of a child could lead to positive outcomes for these very preterm infants.”

The researchers evaluated 125 5-year-old children. Of them, 85 had been born at least 10 weeks before their due dates. The other 40 children in the study were born full-term, at 40 weeks’ gestation.

The children completed standardized tests to assess their cognitive, language and motor skills. Parents and teachers also were asked to complete checklists to help determine whether a child might have issues indicative of ADHD or autism spectrum disorder, as well as social or emotional problems or behavioral issues.

new ways of living, policing and governing, as well as distributing resources more equitably because a critical mass of people will be enlightened – at their collective common interests. In order to move forward against racism, our nation must adopt this innovative, even revolutionary, approach: heal the wounds of our past and learn to work together with civility and, indeed, with love. We must build the individual and collective capacity to see ourselves in the face of the other. Buckminster Fuller, a 20th century inventor and visionary, once said: “You never change things by fighting the existing model. You must

Supporters of a referendum on House Bill 126 protested in downtown St. Louis on August 2. The Republicancontrolled Legislature passed the law in May, with no exemptions for victims of incest or other forms of rape, and Republican Gov. Mike Parson signed it into law.

Missouri, which has some of the harshest abortion restrictions in the country, already prohibits abortions of

to interrupt violence in its assigned area, which will most likely be in North City with the city’s highest crime. The interrupters will not be able to respond to incidents throughout the entire city, which is why multiple sites are necessary.

New York City has 22 Cure Violence sites and spends $30 million a year, McAllister said. Sites in Queens have gone 400 days without a homicide and Brooklyn went 1,000 days.

“They are not playing,” McAllister said. “New York took it to another level.”

Baltimore now has 10 sites.

On Twitter, Reed said that he is going to introduce legislation into the Board of Aldermen to increase the

It turned out the children who had been born at 30 weeks of gestation or sooner tended to fit into one of four groups. One group, representing 27 percent of the very preterm children, was found to be particularly resilient.

“They had cognitive, language and motor skills in the normal range, the range we would expect for children their age, and they tended not to have psychiatric issues,” Lean said. “About 45 percent of the very preterm children, although within the normal range, tended to be at the low end of normal. They were healthy, but they weren’t doing quite as well as the more resilient kids in the first group.”

The other two groups had

create a new model that makes the existing model obsolete.”

RxRacial Healing includes five organizations – Association of American Colleges and Universities, American Public Health Association, Community Action Partnership, National Collaborative for Health Equity and Ntianu Center for Healing and Nature – that reach communities at the grassroots level. While their work has already begun, the organizations seek to expand their partnerships and resources to invigorate efforts to facilitate racial healing, improve equity in communities and eradicate racism.

The incapacity to value all

viable fetuses except in cases of a medical emergency. In urging Sachs not to block the law, the state argued

budget for Cure Violence.

However, Reed’s chief of staff would not return The American’s repeated requests for comment.

Krewson’s August 20 letter to Green requested that the comptroller use her “emergency powers” to execute the Cure Violence contract, instead of going through the “lengthy” Request for Proposals (RFP) process. However, Green said she has yet to receive a contract. Green has been critical of the mayor’s response to the 16 children who were murdered in the St. Louis region since May, the majority within city limits.

“It is not acceptable that this administration waits for a crisis

clear psychiatric issues such as ADHD, autism spectrum disorder or anxiety. A group of about 13 percent of the very preterm kids had moderate to severe psychiatric problems.

The other 15 percent of children, identified via surveys from teachers, displayed a combination of problems with inattention and with hyperactive and impulsive behavior.

The children in those last two groups weren’t markedly different from other kids in the study in terms of cognitive, language and motor skills, but they had higher rates of ADHD, autism spectrum disorder and other problems.

“The children with psychiatric problems also came from homes with mothers who experienced more ADHD

human beings prevents optimal wellbeing and happiness. Our hearts and brains are designed to resonate with harmonious relationships. The opposite –fear and anxiety, separation, alienation and hate – induce stress and distress, causing a cascade of illnesses. The impact of racism is a burden on its victims, exasperating health disparities that prematurely end lives.

When I was 15, I began to understand the power of racism and the need for healing. I attended a summer arts encampment in Chautauqua, New York. Away from home for six weeks, I was the second person of color in the town. My roommate was of a different

that Planned Parenthood does not have legal standing to challenge the law on behalf of its patients because abortion providers only have a transitory relationship with their patients.

It also argued that the law advances various state interests, including protecting innocent life, preventing fetal pain, promoting women’s physical and psychological health, and protecting the integrity of the medical profession.

Planned Parenthood responded that those interests are irrelevant to the question of whether the law passes constitutional muster. And under binding Supreme Court precedent barring states from banning pre-viability abortions, it argued, the law is plainly unconstitutional.

Earlier this year, Missouri health officials refused to renew the license of the Planned Parenthood clinic in St. Louis on various grounds, which the clinic claimed were pretexts. Had a state court judge not blocked the clinic’s closure, Missouri would have become the first state in the

before acting,” Green said. “The mayor’s office had sufficient time to issue an RFP and hold bids for a violence reduction program. Only after a public outcry did the mayor’s office feel compelled to address the people’s concerns. And now another week has passed, and the Comptroller’s Office has still not received a contract for Cure Violence. It is going to take a sustained focus and commitment, working together and partnering with the community to make meaningful change.” Green is not alone in her critique. Last week, Kelvin Adams, superintendent of Saint Louis Public Schools, reacted to the growing list of SLPS

symptoms, higher levels of psychosocial stress, high parenting stress, just more family dysfunction in general,” said senior investigator Cynthia E. Rogers, MD, an associate professor of child psychiatry.

“The mothers’ issues and the characteristics of the family environment were likely to be factors for children in these groups with significant impairment. In our clinical programs, we screen mothers for depression and other mental health issues while their babies still are patients in the NICU.”

Rogers and Lean believe the findings may indicate good news because maternal psychiatric health and family environment are modifiable factors that can be targeted with interventions that have the potential to improve long-term

nation since 1974 without an abortion provider. Missouri’s newest abortion law was passed amid a nationwide wave of anti-abortion “heartbeat” bills prohibiting abortions when a fetal heartbeat can be detected. That can be as early as six weeks. Missouri’s bill originally contained fetal heartbeat language, but that was deleted in the final version of the measure.

More than one-third of states, including Kansas, have 20-week abortion bans, according to the Guttmacher Institute. Some have been struck down but others have survived judicial scrutiny. In 2017, the last year for which figures are available, there were 6,790 resident abortions in Missouri, compared with 7,275 in 2016. Only 134 of the abortions in 2017 and only 170 in 2016 occurred at 20 weeks or later. Dan Margolies is a senior reporter and editor at KCUR. You can reach him on Twitter @DanMargolies. Reprinted with permission from news.stlpublicradio.org.

students who have been killed through gun violence, along with the other children in the region. While Adams did not call out Krewson by name, he said there is a “void of leadership” in the city to work on solutions to the growing violence.

“We don’t have anybody, a go-to leader, that is calling people together and saying, ‘Okay, superintendent, police chief, recreation department, what can we collectively do to try and solve this problem?’” Adams said.

“That’s the real challenge here.”

The mayor’s office did not respond to The St. Louis American’s repeated requests for comment on her letter.

outcomes for children who are born prematurely.

“Our results show that it wasn’t necessarily the clinical characteristics infants faced in the NICU that put them at risk for problems later on. It was what happened after a baby went home from the NICU,” Rogers said.

“Many people have thought that babies who are born extremely preterm will be the most impaired, but we really didn’t see that in our data. What that means is in addition to focusing on babies’ health in the NICU, we need also to focus on maternal and family functioning if we want to promote optimal development.” The researchers are continuing to follow the children from the study.

race, but we became friends. On one of the camp’s last days, as I walked past all the quaint Victorian houses on our little street, an ambulance appeared in front of our yellow house. Hurrying to see what was happening, I reached the front stairs in time to see my roommate carried out unconscious on a stretcher. I asked our house parents what happened and was told she had tried to commit suicide with pills. I ran up to our room, which suddenly seemed unbearably small. There, I found a note she had written: “I don’t want to go home. My father has taught me to hate black people. I now know that is a lie. I don’t want to live like that anymore.” The summer ended, and I never learned her fate. I never forgot how it felt to have lived a brief moment within an innocent and authentic friendship which had pierced the veneer of racial hatred. Now, to save our nation, millions must do the same.

Gail C. Christopher (https:// drgailcchristopher.com/), the former senior advisor and vice president of the W. K. Kellogg Foundation, is the architect and implementer of more than $1 billion in efforts spanning four decades to facilitate racial healing and jettison racism from American society.

with Missouri Foundation for Health is a resource for the region, working with communities and nonprofits to

in health. As a catalyst for change, the Foundation improves the health of Missourians through partnership, experience,

Health Matters is provided in

Photo by Carolina Hidalgo / St. Louis Public Radio

How Healthy Is Your Heart?

Some Sleep!

4 Eat Before You Go

4 Make a List

4 Shop the Walls (Natural, healthier choices are often located along the walls of the store.)

Your heart is an amazing thing! It is actually a muscle that pumps blood throughout your body. A beating heart is what keeps you alive.

Let’s test your heart health. First make sure you have been completely inactive for at least 10 minutes. Locate your pulse* and count how many beats you feel in 15 seconds. Multiply that by 4 and you have your resting heart rate. Ideally this number should be 60-100 beats for anyone over 10 years old.

Healthy Kids Kids

4 Read Labels (Look for lower fat, sodium and sugar and higher fiber options!)

4 Colorize — Just like your dinner plate should be “colorful,” so should your shopping cart. Fill your basket with colorful, fresh fruits and vegetables.

Learning Standards: HPE 2, HPE 5, NH 1, NH 3, NH 5

If your resting heart rate is above that, your heart is possibly working too hard. Discuss with your pediatrician or school nurse ways that you can improve your heart’s health. Following the Nutrition and Exercise guidelines in the Healthy Kids page over the next several months can help improve your heart health too!

Visit:

https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/heartfailure/qa/how-do-you-take-your-pulse for tips on how to take your pulse.

Learning Standards: HPE 1, NH 1, NH 5

P.B. Dip

Ingredients:

> Do you often feel tired during the day?

> Do you fall asleep at your desk?

In order to be at your best, go to bed early enough to allow for at least 8 hours of sleep. You’ll feel more rested and alert and ready to start a new day!

Dippers:

Directions:

“Questions or comments? Contact Cathy Sewell csewell@stlamerican.com or 314-289-5422 Nutrition Challenge: Eating nutritious healthy foods often starts at the grocery store. Here are some tips to smart shopping.

Karen Jones, Director

Where do you work? I am the director of medical management in Missouri, Kentucky and Wisconsin for Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield. Where did you go to school? I graduated from Beaumont High School. I then earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from St. Louis University and a diploma in nursing from the Jewish School of Nursing in St. Louis. What does a director of medical management do? My biggest role is supporting my team as they work with doctors and their patients to help them get the care they need and to take care of themselves. I also spend time learning about what is new and exciting in the medical industry so I can help my team be better prepared to help people in the future. Sometimes I get to travel for work and after work on my free time I see some of the sights in the area.

Why did you choose this career? I really enjoy taking care of others. I started my career as a nurse, but then decided I wanted to explore how to help people before they got sick instead of when they are already in the hospital. What is your favorite part of the job you have? My favorite part is knowing that I made a difference and had a real direct impact on someone’s life. My goal is to help someone every day.

Learning Standards: HPE6, NH3

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

Glasgow Elementary school fifth grade teacher Michale Ward shows Peyton Valiant,

Have you ever wondered what the term “software” means?

Software is defined as various kinds of programs used to operate computers and related devices. Software includes anything that runs digitally on a computer, such as word processing programs, media players, and games. When you purchase a program, you are the only one with the right to use it. When you install the program, you must agree to the terms of purchase, which include not copying or sharing the program with anyone else. If you break this agreement, you are breaking copyright law. The person or company who created the software is the copyright owner.

SCIENCE INVESTIGATION

Background Information:

If you receive a copy of software from a friend, download it illegally from the internet, or buy an illegally made copy, you own “pirated” software. Pirated means it is created without the permission of the copyright owner. Not only is pirated software unfair to the creators, it puts computers at risk of viruses that can damage or destroy the entire computer. Using pirated software at school, which is part of a network, could affect all of the computers in that network. Be safe and be sure you are following copyright laws.

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

African-American Entrepreneur & Inventor Janet Emerson Bashen

Janet Emerson was born on February 12, 1957, in Mansfield, Ohio. She went to college at Alabama A&M. While in college, she met her husband, became Janet Emerson Bashen, and moved to Texas. In Texas, she earned a degree in legal studies and government from the University of Houston. She attended Rice University for postgraduate studies and is also a graduate of Harvard University’s “Women and Power: Leadership in a New World.” Bashen earned a master’s degree in law from Northwestern California University School of Law.

In May 2000, Bashen testified before Congress regarding the effect of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) investigations and was able to have the legislation changed. She became the first African-American female to hold a patent for a software invention. Her patent #6,985,922 was issued on January 10, 2006, for the software program Linkline. Linkline is used in Equal Employment Opportunity businesses to keep track of information online.

In this experiment, you will evaluate how effectively water is filtered.

Materials Needed:

• 2-Liter Soda Bottle (cut in half by an adult) • Napkins or Paper

Towels • Gravel, Sand and Cotton Balls (for your filter) • Water Pitcher • Dirty Water (you can make it by adding cooking oil, food coloring, pieces of paper, and tiny pieces of styrofoam to water)

Process:

q Put the top half of the soda bottle upside-down (like a funnel) inside the bottom half. The top half will be where you build your filter; the bottom half will hold the filtered water.

MATH CONNECTION

Use your math skills to answer these questions.

z Samantha has purchased a book online and is waiting for it to download. If the book has been downloading for 15 minutes and is ¾ finished, approximately how much longer will she need to wait?______

x Jermaine wants to buy a new video game for his laptop. If it costs $49.95 and he has $27.00, how much money does he need to save?______ If he earns $5/week in allowance, how many weeks will it take him to earn that money?______

DID YOU KNOW?

w Layer the filter materials (gravel, sand, and cotton balls) inside the top half of the bottle.

e Pour the dirty water through the filter. What does the filtered water look like?

r Take the filter apart and look at the different layers. Can you tell what each material removed from the water?

t Use the napkins or paper towels to wipe the bottle clean and try again. Try putting materials in different layers or using different amounts of materials. Evaluate the effectiveness.

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

c If your teacher purchases a game for the classroom that is licensed for 10 users, how many licenses will they need to purchase so that every student in your room can use the program?______ (Remember there are 10 users per license. Answers will vary depending on class size.)

v You receive a $25 gift card to shop online. If you buy a book for $9.95 and a journal for $4.95, with $1.50 added for tax, and $2.50 added for shipping, how much money do you have left? ________

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

In 2010, 20 percent of the software products running on U.S. computers were unlicensed.

Bashen is also the founder, President and CEO of the Bashen Corporation, a human resources consulting firm named as one of America’s entrepreneurial growth leaders by Inc. Magazine in its 2002 500 ranking of the nation’s fastestgrowing private companies. This title was earned because Bashen Corporation had a 552% increase in sales. In October 2003, Bashen was given the Pinnacle Award by the Houston Citizens Chamber of Commerce. She has also received the Crystal Award, presented by the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc. She was inducted into the Black Inventors Hall of Fame in 2007. In 2012, Bashen was on Ebony magazine’s list of the 100 most influential African Americans in entertainment, politics, sports and business.

Bashen is very devoted to helping the community. She is on the Board of Directors for the North Harris Montgomery County Community College District Foundation, and chairs the Corporate Advisory Board of the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc. She is also a board member of the Prep Program, a non-profit organization which focuses on preparing at-risk student athletes for college.

Learning Standards: I can read a biography about a person who has made contributions in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math.

MAP CORNER

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

Activity One

Science in the

News: Some of the top news stories in recent years have involved sciencerelated topics, such as the weather, natural disasters, health and medicine, and space exploration. Find a sciencerelated story about one of these topics. Identify the five Ws — who, what, when, where, and why. Complete some additional research so you can explain the “how” in writing. Share your news story with the class.

Activity Two —

Bar Graph: Newspapers have local stories, stories about current events in the state, and national news. Create a bar graph that represents the number of newspaper stories that are local, state, and national.

Learning Standards: I can use the newspaper to locate information. I can write for a specific purpose and audience. I can make text to world connections.

Amir Harris, Amayi Cochran, and Cortez Davis how to use the newspaper’s STEM page to find new lessons in science. Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American.

Annual FASHIONETTATM Scholarship Cotillion

Camille Evanya

Alise Hibbler Crowned Miss FASHIONETTATM 2019

$50,000.00+ Scholarships Awarded

The Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® Gamma Omega Chapter presented its 35th Annual FASHIONETTATM Scholarship Cotillion on Sunday, May 26, 2019 in the Marriott St. Louis Grand Hotel in St. Louis, MO with over 700 people in attendance.

Sixteen lovely young ladies were presented at the annual event: Alexia Bailey, Precious Baker, Yuriah Brown, Cierra Cross, Kayla Daniels, Nadiyah Dowery, Liah Evans, Camille Hibbler, Kaja Horton, Chloe’ Kellom Kristen keys, Aniya Leonard, Cayla Randall, Alyssiah Santano, Chayse Williams and Simone Williams.

The escorts for this event were: Kemet Ajanaku, Julian Bennett, Rayfield Burch, William Clay III, Ricky fletcher, Aric Hamilton, Jalen Head, Courtland Hill, Edward Keith, Devin Jackson, Isaiah Jones, Caleb Randall, Mackenzie Stamps, Jeramy Shaw, Justin Stephney and Desmond Woods

FASHIONETTATM is a trade mark of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® and a fundraising activity for the sorority’s philanthropic endeavors. Locally, the Ivy Alliance Foundation, Gamma Omega’s philanthropic arm, utilizes the funds to provide a variety of programs for students, veterans, homeless individuals and families, and the community at large. FASHIONETTATM debutantes and escorts participate in eight months of leadership development, college/career preparation and social skill enhancement in preparation for

life after high school graduation. Debutantes and escorts receive monetary awards at the Scholarship Cotillion. Over $50,000.00 was awarded to the debutantes and escorts in scholarships.

Camille Evanya Alise Hibbler crowned Miss FASHIONETTATM 2019, daughter of Lorne and Andrea Livingston and Eric Hibbler. Camille is a 2019 graduate of Ladue Horton Watkins High School, will attend Missouri State University and major in Modern Language and career goal is to become an International Interpreter.

First runner-up Miss Kristen Joann Keys, daughter of Darryll and Angela Keys. Kristen is a 2019 honor graduate of Westminister Christian Academy High School, will attend Missouri University of Science & Technology and major in engineering and career goal is to become an Architectural & Civil Engineer.

Second runner-up Miss Cayla Leigh Randall, daughter of Herschell and Erica Randall. Cayla is a 2019 graduate of Heritage Classical Christian Academy High School and will attend Oakwood University and major in Psychology and career goal is to become a School Counselor.

Third runner-up Miss Chloe’ Jonae Kellom, daughter of Jimmy and Debora Kellom. Chloe’ is a 2019 graduate of Westminster Christian Academy High School and will attend University of Kentucky and major in Nursing and career goal is to become a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner.

Fourth runner-up Miss

Chayse Breyenne Williams daughter of Brandon L. Williams and Paula N. Robinson. Chayse is a 2019 graduate of Parkway Central High School and will attend University of Houston and major in Pre-Law and career goal is to become an Attorney.

Debutantes Colleges for Fall 2019

Alexia Bailey – Philander Smith College, Precious Baker – Harris Stowe State University, Yuriah Brown - Forest Park Community College, Cierra Cross Tuskegee University, Kayla Daniels – Westminster College, Nadiyah Dowery – Webster University, Liah Evans –Harris Stowe State University, Kaja Horton – Maryville University, Aniya Leonard –Rust college, Alyssiah Santano –Lindenwood University and Simone Williams – Missouri Western University.

Other awards and winners presented at this event included:

Entrepreneur Awardees –Cierra Cross, Liah Evans, Aric Hamilton, Courtland Hill, Mackenzie Stamps, Chayse Williams and Jalen Head

Buck Bohannan Liberal

Arts Awardees – William Clay III and Aric Hamilton

Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity, Eta Boule Awardees –William Clay III, Aric

Hamilton, Isaiah Jones, Edward Keith, Mackenzie Stamps and Desmond Woods

Ethel H. Lyle Awardee –Highest GPA – Chloe’ Kellom David Perine Awardee –Desmond Woods

Dr. Nathaniel Murdock Health/Science Awardee –Highest GPA – Precious Baker

Dr. Stanley Buck Science Awardees – Devin Jackson and Caleb Randall

Kimberly Beck Leadership Awardee – Cayla Randall Miss Congeniality Awardee – Chloe’ Kellom Mothers of Previous Crowned Miss FASHIONETTATM Awardee – Simone Williams Optimist Club of Clayton Community Service Awardee – Devin Jackson Athlete Awardees – Julian Bennett and Jeramy Shaw Perfect Attendance Awardees – Nadiyah Dowery and Alyssiah Santano HBCU Awardees – William Clay III and Mackenzie Stamps Talia Marcelle Bennett Community Service Awardee – Cierra Cross Commentators for the Cotillion were Dr. Sharilyn D.

Franklin and Josephine Goode Evans. Chairman for FASHIONETTATM 2019 is Carla Moore and Co-Chairmen Ruby Grady and Michelle Sanders. Kimberly R. Beck is the President of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® - Gamma Omega Chapter and Ivy Alliance Foundation. For more information on how you can nominate a high school senior to partici-pate in FASHIONETTATM 2020, please contact the Ivy Alliance Foundation at 314-282-8018 or email us at IAFFASHIONETTA@gmail. com.

Animal magnetism

An internship at the Saint Louis Zoo drew Caryna Childs to work in the field

By Francene Bethune

For The St. Louis American

In 2013 Saint Louis Zoo Director Emeritus Charles “Charlie” H. Hoessle and his wife, Marilyn, created a fund to provide internship opportunities at the Saint Louis Zoo for students attending Harris-Stowe State University.

“To this day, Harris-Stowe remains the most affordable and accessible university in the St. Louis area to students of all ages,” Hoessle said. “This is a chance to give back to the community that has given us so much and introduces students to the possibility of a zoo career.” Charlie and Marilyn Hoessle are both native St. Louisans and in the first generation in their families to attend college. They both earned degrees at the original Harris Teachers College in 1951.

n “Animals can be unpredictable, so students will have to be ready for anything at any given time.”

– Caryna Childs

After serving in the U.S. Army and operating an exotic animal operation for 10 years, Charlie was recruited by the Saint Louis Zoo as a reptile zookeeper. He then worked his way up after 20 years to become the zoo’s director was director from 1982 to 2002, with Marilyn at his side as an active ambassador for the zoo.

Charlie’s legacy lives on throughout the zoo, especially in the zoo’s Education Department

that he established in the 1960s and in the Charles H. Hoessle Herpetarium. After his retirement from the zoo as director emeritus, Hoessle wanted to stay involved, so the Hoessles created a fund and internship program to promote the importance of education within the zoo. The Hoessle internship allows students to learn the fundamentals of animal keeping of many different species. After completing the program, interns are able to apply the skills that they learned to pursue a career in an animalrelated or scientific field.

Caryna Childs, a junior at Harris-Stowe State University, is the sixth student to benefit from the internship program. After graduation, Caryna plans to attend vet school.

See CHILDS, B6

The bonus Big Business gets from Missouri – but

By Missouri State Auditor Nicole Galloway

For The St. Louis American

Missourians deserve a level playing field when it comes to the taxes they pay. They’re rightly upset by the thought that the system is being rigged in someone else’s favor. Individual taxpayers know that if you’re late paying your taxes, you’ll pay penalties and interest. There’s no bonus for meeting the deadline. In fact, more and more Missourians who file their taxes on time – and even well before April 15 – have discovered that their “reward” has been a longer and longer wait in getting a refund from the Department of Revenue. Which brings us what I’d like to call “Missouri’s Big Business Bonus”. You might to want to sit down when you read this. Businesses in Missouri – including the state’s largest retailers – pocketed about $124 million in fiscal year 2018 and $120 million in fiscal year 2017 … just for turning in the sales taxes they owe on time. Not early, mind you, but by the legal deadline. Those are sales

See BONUS, B2

you don’t

Vanessa L. Vaughn West joined Lathrop Gage as director of Diversity and Inclusion. As the former Community Relations manager for the City of Olathe, Kansas, she brings nearly 20 years’ experience in roles focused on diversity and inclusion, corporate social responsibility, community relations and communications.

Travis Brown Jr. was promoted to Lemasters Elementary School Principal in the Riverview Gardens School District. Previously he was assistant principal at Central Middle School in the district and worked as an administrator for Normandy Schools Collaborative. He has 24 years of experience in education, including roles as teacher, basketball coach and social studies department director.

Liz Beeks was named one of the three new shareholders of Christner Architectural firm. As the director of Accounting she handles crucial information, has implemented progressive financial management processes, moved the accounting department to a paperless system, and frequently engages with the office to champion service projects.

Arnett Harvey was appointed as superintendent of Cahokia School District 187. He becomes the first African-American male to lead the district. He has been in the education field for 34 years, of which he has served as CFO for Cahokia School District for 25 years.

Salome Christian was named as general manager of Saks Fifth Avenue – St. Louis at Plaza Frontenac. She started her career with Saks in 2013 in Atlanta and later took roles in Greenwich, Connecticut and its flagship store in New York. She has 19 years of retail experience, including seven years as a general manager of Belk Department Store.

Missouri State Auditor Nicole Galloway

Jamelle Newsome was named a Distinguished Teacher by the Noble Network of Charter Schools in Chicago, one of the leading public charter school systems in America. He is a 2001 graduate of Maplewood Richmond Heights High School and a St. Louis native. Distinguished teacher aims to reward, celebrate and learn from Noble’s most effective teachers. Among other benefits, each Distinguished Teacher will receive $10,000 annually for as long as they remain teachers at Noble.

On the move? Congratulations! Send your good professional news

Salome Christian

Travis Brown Jr.

Jamelle Newsome

Arnett Harvey

Vanessa L. Vaughn West

Liz Beeks

Caryna Childs, a junior at Harris-Stowe State University, is the sixth student to benefit from an internship program for HarrisStowe students at the Saint Louis Zoo created and funded Saint Louis Zoo Director Emeritus Charles “Charlie” H. Hoessle and his wife, Marilyn.

Photo by Wiley Price

Photo by Wiley Price

How Keisha Mabry found a FRIENDly foundation for business success

August 31 deadline to apply for Inner City Capital Connections

communities.

By Kim Borges For The St. Louis American

“Hey, friend!”

Whether you are meeting

Keisha Mabry for the first time, or you have known her for years, you can count on receiving this enthusiastic greeting. But Mabry wasn’t so outgoing during her childhood.

“I was always the youngest and smallest at daycare and in dance class,” Mabry said. “I was so shy and scared, thinking to myself, ‘What am I doing here?’”

Mabry knew exactly why she was at the 2019 kickoff of Inner City Capital Connections (ICCC) in St. Louis – to help others discover what she found after Mabry attended the 2016 ICCC St. Louis program

Then, she was a curious participant with a year-old professional networking company called heyFRIEND. Today, she’s a successful business owner with an impressive client list, and she’s an enthusiastic promoter of ICCC because she’s seen how it helped heyFRIEND grow.

ICCC provides business training – at no cost – to entrepreneurs in urban or economically underserved

Bonus

continued from page B1

and use taxes that you as a customer paid, but the business got to keep, merely because they paid their taxes on time.

n “When you see it, you can believe it. I saw instructors and business peers who looked like me. And I realized I could do this.”

– Keisha Mabry

The program is part of the Initiative for a Competitive Inner City, which was founded by Harvard Business School Professor Michael Porter to empower small-business owners through ongoing education and professional development.

While the ICCC seminars and course materials were impressive to Mabry, she was most inspired by seeing the diversity throughout the room during the 2016 training event. “When you see it, you can believe it,” said Mabry. “I saw instructors and business peers who looked like me. And I realized I could do this.” Now, with ICCC coming back to St. Louis for a new training event in September, Mabry is spreading the word

to fellow entrepreneurs: Apply for this program now. It can give your business the boost it needs. And it’s offered at no cost.

ICCC participants receive executive-level training in specialty areas such as finance, marketing and strategic planning from nationally renowned business leaders and educators. Peer coaching and webinars are offered to extend learning beyond the oneday seminar. And since organizations like Regions Bank and the St. Louis Regional Chamber sponsor ICCC, the program is made available free of charge to applicants who are accepted.

Keisha Mabry

“Keisha’s experience mirrors that of entrepreneurs throughout the country whose lives and businesses have been profoundly affected by the ICCC program,” said Steve Grossman, CEO of ICIC.

ICCC said that since its founding in 2005, the program has reached 3,000 businesses, helped them raise $2 billion in capital and helped create 20,000 jobs.

“Beyond the statistics, we’ve seen the personal success stories of smallbusiness owners in St. Louis who are expanding their companies and helping fuel our economy as a result of their participation,” said Mike Hart, Greater St. Louis market executive for Regions. Mabry was seeking an opportunity where “business and mission meet” when she attended ICCC in 2016. The former educator, technology startup executive director and food company business analyst felt she had never experienced a combination of the two.

“I wanted something that was good for my heart, good for my mind and good for my pockets,” said Mabry.

Her path to establishing heyFRIEND resulted from a challenge she issued to herself while a University of Louisville MBA student: connect with 100 new people in 100 days.

“I wanted to learn the ‘who’ rather than the ‘do’ of each person,” said Mabry. “So many times, we focus on what someone does for a living. If

I just completed an audit on the collection of sales and use tax by the Department of Revenue, our third since 2015. Missouri is one of 28 states that offer this break to retailers, but our state’s discount for timely payments is the second-most generous in the nation. The audit found that it’s the largest retailers that primarily benefit from the Big Business Bonus. In fiscal year 2016, the 50 largest sales tax collecting businesses retained n Businesses in Missouri pocketed about $124 million in fiscal year 2018 just for turning in sales taxes on time. Missouri ‘s discount for timely payments is the second-most generous in the nation.

we don’t have a connection with their profession, we zone out, and it becomes a dead-end discussion. If you ask someone about their story, it always leads to deeper conversation.”

She thoughtfully captured notes and followed up with a customized email to each new connection. The response was so positive from those she met, it eventually formed the basis of her small business. But it didn’t really take off until she got insight from the 2016 ICCC event.

“Could I bottle and sell connection?” Mabry had been asking herself as she considered whether her networking strategies could truly be the foundation for a successful company. She was also concerned about sustainability.

“People focus so much on starting a business,” she said. “Sustaining growth and scaling is harder.”

ICCC empowered her to think bigger from a funding perspective around what was possible. Crowdsourcing, grants, pitch competitions, microloans – the tools are out there, if you know which ones to use, and when.

Today, Mabry continues to grow her company. She

coaches, consults, delivers keynote messages, tackles media appearances, leads group workshops and has written a book.

Mabry has formed a closer relationship with Regions professionals since the 2016 ICCC event. Chenoa Hughes, who works for the bank in nearby O’Fallon, Missouri, attended a workshop Mabry conducted in February.

“The break-out sessions I attended addressed ways brands can be promoted via social media and how influencers play a role in that,” said Hughes. “The workshop provided a glimpse of starting and growing a business from an entrepreneurial idea. It offered me a new perspective that I now consider in my commercial banking role.” With ICCC heading back to St. Louis in September, Mabry is excited by the prospect of what else she can learn – and what the future holds for heyFRIEND: “What can it really be?”

For more information on ICCC in St. Louis, visit https://tinyurl.com/ y4m4rxvd. To apply for ICCC by August 31, visit apply. iccapitalconnections.org.

approximately 72 percent of the discounts over $2,500, with the single largest sales tax collecting business receiving $10 million in discounts. You would think Missouri’s lax approach to this giveaway would provide an advantage in keeping and attracting businesses. The numbers – a stagnant population that’s been linked to low job growth – show otherwise. As a state, we aren’t seeing the economic benefits of this corporate giveaway policy.

In many cases, there’s no accountability when it comes to the cost of these economic policies. My audit also found that the Department of Revenue does not report the cost of this discount to the General Assembly, local governments and, most importantly, the public. Not only does this makes it difficult to understand the fiscal impact, it leaves the legislators who make budget policy unable to make informed decisions about the effectiveness and cost of offering this break to big businesses. Our state leaders must do a better job determining which economic incentive policies are working and which aren’t, which is why I am calling on legislators to eliminate the Big Business Bonus. Missourians

understand that $244 million – the amount pocketed by businesses over two years –could help meet the needs our state has in fixing crumbling roads and bridges, protecting our schools, offering better mental health services, and keeping our rural hospitals open. Promoting a good business climate doesn’t have to be at odds with protecting taxpayers, and economic incentives can and do work. But we have to be smart about incentives like the Big Business Bonus – being able to measure how well they work, and changing or eliminating them when they don’t. It’s just common sense. Missouri State Auditor Nicole Galloway (D-Columbia) is running for governor.

ACLU-MO seeks applicants for two-year Legal Fellowship

The American Civil Liberties Union of Missouri Foundation is accepting applications from third-year law students, judicial clerks, and recent law school graduates for its Legal Fellowship. The Legal Fellowship is a two-year program that will begin in the late summer/fall of 2019 and is a full-time position with a salary of $50,000 and comprehensive benefits.

The Legal Fellow will participate in both litigation and non-litigation advocacy activities to advance civil liberties and civil rights in

Missouri. The Legal Fellow will work under the direction of the ACLU-MO’s legal director to help develop and litigate cases at the trial and appellate level in state and federal courts on a wide variety of civil liberties issues.

The Legal Fellow will be involved in investigation, client interviewing, legal and factual research, discovery, and brief writing. In addition, the Legal Fellow will have non-litigation advocacy responsibilities including public speaking and outreach.

To apply, e-mail a letter of interest, resume, writing sample, and three professional references to application@aclumo.org. Please indicate “Legal Fellow” in the subject line of your email. Please indicate in your cover letter where you saw this job posting. Or application materials may be mailed to: 906 Olive St., Suite 1130, St. Louis, Missouri 63101. Please, no phone calls. Application materials will be reviewed as received and will be accepted until the position is filled.

September 27 deadline to apply for free coding camp

Applications are open until Friday, September 27 to apply for LaunchCode‘s free Immersive CodeCamp course, offered in partnership with St. Louis Community College, which starts on Monday, October 14.

This CodeCamp is a 14-week, full-time (9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday-Friday) course on in-demand technologies and skills with hands-on mentorship and individualized support from our instructors taught at St. Louis Community College - Harrison Education Center, 3140 Cass Ave. in St. Louis.

Training will be provided on universal programming concepts and best practices with Python, foundational

elements and tools for fullstack web development and Java development. Feedback and support will be provided after class to prepare for LaunchCode‘s apprenticeship program. To apply by September 27, visit https://tinyurl.com/ y34hxa9q.

n “I want my stepback to be one of those moves that will last forever.”

— Houston Rockets star James Harden

Sports

Sad night for prep sports is commentary on how out-of-control we have become

~ See ‘Sports Eye’ page B4 ~

Prep football players to watch in 2019

It was an unprecedented year for postseason success in area high school football as four St. Louis teams won state championships and two others were state runners-up last season. There are so many talented players in the St. Louis area to watch in 2019.

Noah Arinze (Webster Groves): Excellent 6’4” 240-pound senior defensive end who has emerged as one of the state’s most hotly recruited prospects.

Itayvion Brown (Lutheran North): Versatile senior linebacker who had 91 tackles, eight sacks and one interception as a junior. He has committed to Minnesota.

Luther Burden (Cardinal Ritter): Exciting sophomore receiver who caught 48 passes for 1,191 yards and 14 touchdowns as a freshman for the Class 3 state finalists.

Lanell Carr (DeSmet): Standout senior defensive lineman who had 40 tackles and five sacks as a junior. He has committed to West Virginia.

Kevin Coleman (St. Mary’s): Talented young receiver who had 1,045 yards receiving and was an electrifying bigplay performer as a freshman.

Mookie Cooper (Trinity): One of the top big-play performers in the country, he had 28 receptions for 869 yards and 18 touchdowns for the Class 3 state champions as a junior. Has committed to The Ohio State University.

Antonio Doyle (Lutheran North): Senior transfer from Hazelwood West who is a two-way impact player at tight end and linebacker. Has excellent speed for a 6’4” 240-pounder.

Coming off unprecedented year for postseason success Clemson

takes the reins vs Wyoming

Mizzou has been relatively blessed in recent years at the quarterback position. Brad Smith Chase Daniel Blaine Gabbert and Drew Lock have all vaulted from signal-caller in Columbia to NFL rosters. High draft picks Lock and Gabbert went the traditional route. Smith was selected as a WR/KR. Meanwhile, Daniel (the Mizzou GOAT) went undrafted but has managed to carve out a long NFL career as a backup QB. Even with the talent Mizzou has seen under center, it is normally a stressful situation when a star QB rides off into the sunset and fans must wait for another to be anointed. Not this season.

Mizzou fans are eagerly awaiting this Saturday’s season-opener versus Wyoming. The Tigers will finally get to unveil its shiny, new quarterback, Kelly Bryant. If that name sounds familiar, it should. Bryant was a member of Clemson’s 2016 national championship team (as well as last year’s – sort of). Bryant served as the backup to Deshaun Watson (now with the Houston Texans) in 2015 and 2016. After Watson was drafted into the NFL, Bryant took the wheel and steered Clemson to a 12-2 record. In the 2017 season, he passed for 2,802 yards, 13 TDs and a 131.7 QB rating. He also rushed for 665 yards and 11 TDs. Clemson advanced to the college football playoff but lost to Alabama in the semifinal matchup. Four games into the 2018 season, despite an undefeated start, the senior QB was demoted to backup. Rather than serve as a second-wheel, spectator or cheerleader in his final season, Bryant took advantage of a new NCAA rule that allows players to play up to four games without being charged

Earl Austin Jr.

H. Sistrunk

Mekhi Hagens passed for 4,511 yards with 54 touchdowns and five interceptions last season for the

quarterback Kelly Bryant throws a

Photo by Daniel Shular / Columbia Missourian

SportS EyE

Alvin A. Reid

With

Sad night for prep sports is commentary on how out-of-control we have become

Kirkwood opens its season at home against Jefferson City on Friday night and I plan on being there – and I hope the place is surrounded by police.

Yes, that’s a sad commentary on current events in the St. Louis area. But following the fatal violence last Friday near Soldan and the dangerous antics at Parkway North, safety for students, parents, fans and players should take priority over the game itself.

Following jamboree games at Soldan, numerous fights reportedly broke out, according to police. As police dispersed the crowd, shots rang out.

Jurnee Thompson, 8, was killed while waiting with family members outside a nearby restaurant.

more commonplace. But the lure of “Friday Night Lights,” led to high schools adding lights and returning to night games. Game nights in Kirkwood are special now. They have a community feel. I’m sure the same is true at Soldan and Parkway North.

The ugliness that happened last Friday is not the respective schools’ fault. It’s the fault of a culture of violence that is like a wildfire out of control among too many black youths and adults.

Continuous fights at the Parkway North football jamboree reached a crescendo when a single gunshot was reported. No arrests have been made in either incident, but the investigations continue.

We all know what many people were thinking on Saturday morning, don’t we?

“I would expect this kind of thing at Soldan, but not Parkway North.” I immediately viewed video images of the Parkway North melee, somehow hoping that I would not see what I knew I would.

Yes, it was black youths fighting.

Throughout the 1970s and early 80s, most high school football games were played on Saturday afternoon. Many schools didn’t have lights, but there was also a growing concern with fights and other unlawful behavior becoming

A high school football or basketball game should be a safe haven.

Parents should want their children there – it certainly is better than roaming the streets looking for trouble. But now, unfortunately, trouble is finding them.

What goes on near a school or in a parking lot before, after and during a game is impossible to completely control.

But I do not want to hear a single complaint about heavy police presence in and around area football fields and gyms. Law abiding youths and parents deserve to be safe while they enjoy the efforts of those who strive to do the right thing.

It can start at Kirkwood on Friday night, and I’ll shake every police officer’s hand I see and say, “thank you.”

MLS’ new rivalry

While the St. Louis Cardinals have dominated the Kansas City Royals throughout the years of interleague play, our cross-state rival has been to a pair of World Series (2014, 2015) since the Redbirds last

appearance in 2013.

In 2022, a new rivalry will be born when the MLS expansion St. Louis No Names begin playing against KC Sporting.

For Sporting, it’s a godsend. You see, the Kansas City franchise’s nearest MLS competitor is Minneapolis. It’s 438 miles away. The distance to Chicago is 525 miles. Those are treks fans might take to see an NFL game or to take in several MLB games during a weekend.

That’s too far for a true rivalry to develop between MLS fans.

St. Louis is just 250 miles away from Children’s Mercy Park, home of Sporting. By the way, the stadium is in Kansas City, Kansas, about 10 miles from downtown Kansas City.

Before the August 20 announcement that St. Louis had secured an expansion franchise, Sporting Club coach Peter Vermes told the Kansas City Star, “It would be great for the league, great for St. Louis but also great for us.

“…Having another team close by would be good for us. We need more teams in the middle of the country.”

Sporting midfielder Wan Kuzain, an Illinois native who played youth soccer in St. Louis, said the state line between Missouri and Kansas will make no difference in the future matchup.

“Yeah, I would say there is a rivalry there,” he told the Star.

“Whether it’s an actual rivalry or not, there’s a feeling that you want to be the best in the state.”

MLS’ new Nazi woes

MLS is between a rock and a hard place.

Symbols used by white supremacists and new-Nazis have been spotted at MLS games to the horror of many fans. However, some fans’ signs stand against Fascism and feel other fanatical beliefs should be allowed.

MLS, in response, recently banned all signs of a political nature.

Three independent groups of fans at a game between the host Portland Timbers and Seattle Sounders remained quiet for the first 33 minutes of the game in protest of the MLS edict.

The 33 minutes is symbolic of 1933, the year the antiNazi paramilitary organization Iron Front was disbanded in Germany. Its symbol, three arrows aiming down and to the left, has been used on signs at games. It is now banned.

Yahoo Sports columnist Caitlin Murray wrote last week, “a sign that denounces racism, fascism or homophobia is allowed under the new guidelines — that’s about human rights and the inclusiveness the MLS front office has championed, the league says.”

“Meanwhile, a sign that endorses a political organization, candidate or policy is not allowed — that’s political.

One would think that would make most MLS fans happy. However, the decision has been

met with disdain from many fans.

The angst stems from New York FC home games becoming an open-air gathering of Nazi sympathizers and supremacists.

In Atlanta, several fans of the United franchise claim they were ejected from MercedesBenz Stadium because they had a sign accusing NYFC home games of being a meeting place for Nazis. MLS said they were ejected for refusing to remove the sign and then scuffling with security. They could have stayed if they had complied with the policy.

In a statement to Yahoo Sports, MLS President Mark Abbott said, “The prohibition on political signage is in place to support the overwhelming majority of MLS fans who come to our stadiums to enjoy a great soccer game.”

“Major League Soccer fully and wholeheartedly condemns racism, discrimination, fascism and any form of hatred. We and our clubs will continue to permit signs that support basic human rights, as the rainbow pride flag does, as well as those that condemn racism and fascism.”

Knowing St. Louis as I do, I would advise the successful St. Louis ownership group led by Caroline Kindle-Betz to prepare to handle hatred lurking in the stands of the new soccer stadium just as it does at NYFC home games.

The Reid Roundup

Dexter Fowler’s return to the top of the batting order has sparked the surging St. Louis Cardinals. I wonder – where the hate has gone? The answer is “nowhere.” It’s still there … Ezekiel Elliott’s holdout has lasted more than a month and his total in fines has far surpassed $1 million. Is he getting sound advice from his representation team? Andrew Luck suddenly retired, and the Indianapolis Colts are not going to make him return more than $25 million in bonus money … I get why some fans booed him as he walked off the field last Saturday. It seems that no one wants to say it, but he did quit on his team. He might have good reason, but he quit … Doug Gottlieb of Fox Sports1, who I don’t care for, is catching flak for saying, “Retiring cause rehabbing is ‘too hard’ is the most millennial thing ever.”… The Colts didn’t want Luck’s bonus cash back. The Detroit Lions demanded repayment from future Hall of Fame receiver Calvin Johnson when he abruptly retired, as the franchise did years ago when Barry Sanders called it quits. As a result, Johnson wants nothing to do with the team … The Formula1 racing season resumes this week with the Belgian Grand Prix after its four-week summer break. Points leader Lewis Hamilton is a heavy favorite to win his third consecutive driver’s championship and his sixth overall.

Alvin A. Reid was honored as the 2017 “Best Sports Columnist – Weeklies” in the Missouri Press Association’s Better Newspaper Contest and is a New York Times contributor. He is a panelist on the Nine Network program, Donnybrook, a weekly contributor to “The Charlie Tuna Show” on KFNS and appears monthly on “The Dave Glover Show” on 97.1 Talk.” Find him on Twitter at #aareid1.

Alvin A. Reid

Dexter Fowler’s return to the top of the batting order has sparked the surging St. Louis Cardinals.

East St. Louis Senior High football coach Darren Sunkett has taken his teams around the country to play the best competition during his tenure with the Flyers. As well as playing in the rugged Southwestern Conference, the Flyers play a non-conference schedule that has to be admired. East St. Louis will open the 2019 campaign against Illinois perennial power Batavia on Saturday. The Flyers will then take on one of the best teams in Missouri in Trinity Catholic, followed by a game against another top Illinois team in Nequa Valley.

“It’s something that we take pride within our program here at East St. Louis,” Sunkett said. “We are willing to play anybody that wants to put on the pads and play.” For Coach Sunkett and his staff, Batavia presents an excellent opening-game challenge this weekend. Head coach Dennis Piron has compiled a record of 85-12 at Batavia, including state championships in 2013 and 2017. Batavia returns nine starters from a team that advanced to the Class 7A semifinals last season, losing to Nazareth Academy. The Bulldogs will rely on senior running back/lineback-

From The easT side

With Maurice Scott Jr.

Flyers play to win

er Quinn Urwiler, who has committed to North Dakota. In addition, the Bulldogs also feature running back Art Taylor and a pair of imposing tight ends in 6’7” Taylor Lutzwig and 6’8” Devin Cheaney. However, Batavia will have its hands full as the Flyers’ roster has nine Division 1 football prospects to date. The Flyers are led by defensive back/wide receiver Antonio Johnson, who is rated as the top senior in his class by Rivals. com in the state of Illinois.

The two-way star has offers on the table from Alabama, LSU, Michigan, Michigan State, Wisconsin, Nebraska, Texas A&M and – you get the message. Joining Johnson on offense is sensational wide out Lawaun Powell Jr., who had 33 receptions for 727 yards and nine touchdowns before being injured in last year’s state playoffs. Powell has narrowed his college choices to Illinois, Nebraska and Purdue.

Junior quarterback Tyler

Macon also returns after a big sophomore season. The smooth dual-threat quarterback is one of the best in the Midwest. He is being recruited by several top collegiate programs as well. The offensive line will be anchored by senior Javontez Spraggins (6’4”, 340 pounds), a Tennessee recruit who is one of the top lineman in the state. Defensively, Johnson will be one of the leaders at safety, but the Flyers will also rely on senior defensive end/linebacker Kevon Billingsley, a 6’4” 235-pounder who committed to the University of Missouri.

“Kevon is so versatile,” Sunkett said. “You can stand

him up and play linebacker or he can line up and play defensive end. He’s just a kid that you can move around the field and opposing offenses will have to know where he’s at.”

Other notable Flyers include senior wide out Keontez Lewis, Dominic Lovett and offensive lineman Tyres Williams and Brian Bonnett. The East St. Louis Flyers have a sour taste in their mouths after losing in consecutive years to Chicago Mt. Carmel in the Illinois Class 7A state playoffs. East Side is poised to make a run for a state championship in 2019.

Build it and drive it

the

Clutch

Continued from B3 success. Bryant has high hopes of playing at the next level and a benching may have prevented those aspirations from becoming a reality.

Considering that Clemson went on to the win another national championship with Trevor Lawrence, Bryant’s replacement, it’s hard to second guess the move. However, considering Bryant’s track record, it should also be hard to second guess his decision to move on and finish his college football career on his terms.

While many teams hand out championship rings to any player who had a hand in a championship season, Clemson coach Dabo Swinney is still salty at Bryant’s decision to leave the program and refused to offer Bryant a ring.

In January, the NCAA announced a one-year postseason ban due to a tutoring scandal. (Missouri appealed the ruling, but the appeal has yet to be decided). Bryant could’ve bolted without penalty. He chose to stay.

Now for the first time, Mizzou boasts a starting QB with a national championship on his resume (albeit as a backup) and a college playoff berth as a starter.

“He wasn’t on the team. You’ve gotta be on the team to get a ring,” Swinney told ESPN. “I love Kelly and appreciate what he did for us, but he decided to move on.” Bryant did indeed move on. In a seeming twist of fate to Mizzou’s normally dreadful luck, Bryant picked Missouri over Auburn, Mississippi State, Arkansas and North Carolina. Tigers’ fans went crazy. However, the curse that caused the infamous “Fifth Down Game” and serious injuries to star basketball players such as Kelly Thames Michael Porter Jr. and Jontay Porter reared its ugly head again.

The 6-foot-3, 225-pound player is a dual-threat QB who is a much better passer than many people give him

Continued from B3 for 4,511 yards with 54 touchdowns and five interceptions last season for the Class 3 state runners-up.

Arlen Harris Jr. (Lutheran St. Charles): Talented sophomore running back who rushed for 1,080 yards and 22 touchdowns as a freshman. He is already getting major college scholarship offers.

Antonio Johnson (East St. Louis): Outstanding two-way performer who had 642 yards receiving and 11

credit for, particularly on the deep ball. According to PFF College, in 2017, Bryant was the ACC’s top-rated passer (115.4) on throws of 20 or more yards.

Part of the reason Bryant selected Mizzou over other schools was because of the pro-style office used by Derek Dooley, Missouri’s offensive coordinator. Instead of lining up in the shotgun nearly every down, Bryant will be forced to master three-, five- and seven-step drops more commonly used in the NFL.

“I just wanted to challenge myself and learn a whole new offense,” Bryant told ESPN “Where I want to be [playing in the NFL], I’m going to have to do it anyway, so why not go about getting a head start as quickly as possible?”

At Mizzou, he’ll get to operate behind one of the top offensive lines in the SEC. Athlon Sports ranked the Missouri offensive line as No. 9 in college football and No. 3 in the SEC behind Georgia and Alabama (No. 1 and 2 respectively in the NCAA).

touchdowns on offense and five interceptions on defense.

Jordan Johnson (DeSmet): A prime-time senior wide receiver who had 28 receptions for 721 yards and nine touchdowns. One of the top receiving prospects in the Midwest. He has committed to Notre Dame.

Jairus Maclin (Kirkwood): Talented senior receiver from a talented Kirkwood football family who had 44 receptions for 753 yards and 10

Bryant will also get to throw to Albert Okwuegbunam, who is the best tight end in college football when healthy. Mizzou will also return Larry Rountree III. Roundtree rushed for 1,116 rushing yards last season and will seek to punish defenses behind Mizzou’s talented offensive line. He should help open up passing lanes for Bryant and the Tigers’ young but talented corps of receivers. Instead of lamenting the loss of Lock, the Tigers are looking forward to the future with Bryant. Regardless of what happens with the NCAA postseason appeal, Bryant will make the Tigers a heck of a lot of fun to watch. From the buzz around Columbia, he will also help rack up the wins. I can’t wait to see him lace up the cleats, kick off the season and beat the sleeves off Wyoming this weekend.

Follow Ishmael and In the Clutch online at stlamerican. com and on Twitter @ishcreates.

touchdowns. He has committed to Missouri.

Tyler Macon (East St. Louis): Excellent junior dualthreat quarterback who passed for 2,390 yards and rushed for 1,190 yards with a combined 46 touchdowns.

Jalen St. John (Trinity): Excellent offensive lineman who is the anchor of the Titans’ line play that powered to the Class 3 state championship last season. He has committed to Missouri.

Maurice Scott Jr.

During

Bommarito Automotive Group 500 race day at the World Wide Technology Raceway at Gateway, students from around the area got to build and race their own go carts at the track’s Kartplex on Saturday, Aug. 22, 2019. On the right is Girl’s Inc. driver Kayla Payne, a senior at McCluer High School.

Photo by Wiley Price

“It gave me a chance to work with different animals for 10 weeks,”

a junior at Harris-Stowe State University, said of

Zoo. “It assured me that having an animal-related

future.”

Childs

continued from page B1

“It gave me a chance to work with different animals for 10 weeks,” said Childs.

“It assured me that having an animal-related career is what I aspire to do in the future.”

For her future, Childs would do anything to work in the field, even if it means waking up early every morning to take an hour walk to work – as she did when working at the zoo.

“My dedication sets me apart from other students,” said Childs. “I do not have transportation, but that did not stop me from getting to my internship. I woke up early

n “My dedication sets me apart from other students. I do not have transportation, but that did not stop me from getting to my internship at the zoo.”

– Caryna Childs

every morning and prepared myself for the hour walk it took me to get to the zoo on time.”

Along with working at the zoo, Childs has been working a part-time job at Papa John and as a Student Orientation leader at the university.

“Getting into a veterinarian

program is not easy and very competitive, which motivates me to work as hard as I can to achieve my goal,” said Childs.

Working at the zoo is not all fun and games according to Childs. It takes hard work and dedication.

“Working at the zoo does involve cleaning after the animals and getting a little dirty, as well as working outside and being prepared to work in all types of elements, said Childs. “Animals can be unpredictable, so students will have to be ready for anything at any given time.”

Regardless of the unpredictability of animals at the zoo, Childs would still consider a career as a zookeeper.

Financial Focus

By Harsh Patel, CFP, AAMS

Caryna Childs,

her internship at the Saint Louis

career is what I aspire to do in the

Photo by Wiley Price

Living It

Cuisine for the culture

St. Louis Black Restaurant Week returns September 3-8

By Kenya Vaughn Of The St. Louis American

At the 1995 Source Awards, a then relatively unknown rap duo named OutKast stunned everyone by winning the “Best New Artist” award.

In between the boos hurled at him and his rap partner Big Boi, a young Andre 3000 managed to get out, “I’m tired of them close-minded folks. It’s like we got a demo out, but don’t nobody want to hear it. But it’s like this – the South got something to say.”

They were basically laughed off the stage of the now defunct awards show presented by the magazine of the same name that once celebrated the best and brightest in hip-hop. The Atlanta rap scene used that moment as motivation and came together to dominate the industry. Nearly a quarter century later, they are still wrecking shop as a Mecca for the genre. OutKast is now a multiplatinum-selling legend and Andre 3000 is a certified rap god.

That clip of hip-hop history – and Atlanta’s epic collective mic drop response – is a driving

industry here,” Williamson said.

“I’m

Sing, dance and get ‘woke’

Marlon Wayans’ latest film ‘Sextuplets,’ which was released on Netflix August 16, features Wayans in the challenged position of portraying seven roles –including five long lost brothers, a sister and their mother – over the course of the film.

Politically charged musical pairs Black Rep with Ailey alums for Season 43 opener

By Kenya Vaughn

Of The St. Louis American

When Micki Grant and the late Vinnette Carroll paired up to interpret the black struggle through song and dance nearly 50 years ago, they made history. The cohort of theaters in New York City known as Broadway – the epicenter of drama and the originator of the musical – had been in existence since the Civil War days. Yet it would be 1972 before the first show with music and lyrics written by an African American woman and a black woman director were granted entrance into “the great white way.”

They came at the same time through “Don’t Bother Me I Can’t Cope,” with Grant as the writer and Carroll as the director.

Next week, the show opens the Black Rep’s 43rd Season at Washington University’s Edison Theatre and features the creative partnership of the company with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater alums Antonio Douthit-Boyd and Kirven Douthit-Boyd.

For nearly five years, the spouses have codirected COCAdance at COCA – the organization that discovered Antonio’s natural gift for

movement as a teen and put him on the fast track for his storied dance performance career that ended as a principal dancer for Ailey.

“It’s such a great thing that Kirven came home with Antonio,” said Ron Himes, Founder and Producing Director of The Black Rep. “We now have a way to let people know that you can be at the top of your game and have a base here. That’s what I really hope that this collaboration will fuel.”

The couple brings their talent to the Black Rep with Kirven as the show’s choreographer and Antonio as a member of the 11-person ensemble.

“I told Ron and Kirven that I was in retirement. Clearly, they don’t get it,” Antonio said

See Rep, C4 See Cuisine, C4

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater alums Antonio Douthit-Boyd and Kirven Douthit-Boyd working through a dance sequence for the Black Rep production of ‘Don’t Bother Me I Can’t Cope.’

Comedian and actor portrays six siblings in Netflix’s ‘Sextuplets’

By Kenya Vaughn Of The

St. Louis American

When Marlon Wayans signed on to star in his latest film “Sextuplets,” which dropped on Netflix two weeks ago, it wasn’t about the funny.

“I read the script and thought, ‘this would be a great acting challenge,’” Wayans told The American when he visited St. Louis on a promotional tour for the film.

“‘If I could play all these different characters and make them all different, yet similar, I think I would be a great triumph for me as an actor.’” He thought the funny would come through the characters, but his first order of business for the film, written by Mike Glock and Rick Alvarez and directed by Michael Tiddes, was to get a handle on breathing life into the halfdozen-plus characters he was responsible for bringing to the screen.

n For Wayans it was the makeup –not playing against seven different characters (he also plays the sextuplets’ mother) – was the biggest challenge in creating the film.

“Sextuplets,” follows Allen, a successful ad agency executive, on his quest to find his family roots for the sake of finding medical and other pertinent background information ahead of the birth of he and his wife’s unborn child. Over the course of his journey, Allen finds that he is by far, the most stable among the sextuplets. The siblings grew up not knowing any of the others existed. They range from an overweight recluse who is addicted to 80s television and cereal to an albino criminal mastermind who has been off the grid for several years.

“I liked Ethan because him and Allen were identical,” Wayans said of Allen’s fast-talking con artist brother. “Being in the makeup, its easy to lose yourself in the character. With Ethan, there is no makeup – but he was totally different.”

For Wayans it was the makeup – not playing against seven different characters (he also plays the sextuplets’ mother) – was the biggest challenge in creating the film.

“It’s 60 pounds, 50 pounds and then its like hotter than anywhere else on earth inside that makeup,” Wayans said. “It’s just very uncomfortable. That and the lack of sleep were the worst.”

There is typically a lot of “hurry up and wait” during the filmmaking process, where actors kickback in their trailers to kill time between the scenes they are in.

See Wayans, C4

Photo by Frank Williamson

Erica Bee and Courtney MacManey are enjoying a meal at Prime 55, one of the participating restaurants of St. Louis Black Restaurant Week 2019.

Musical director Charles Creath and director Ron Himes with members of the ‘Don’t Bother Me I Can’t Cope’ during rehearsal for the upcoming musical on Friday. The show will open the Black Rep’s 43rd season when it plays Wash U.’s Edison Theatre from September 4-22.

Photo by Lawrence Bryant

Photo by Lawrence Bryant

How to place a calendar listing

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

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

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

concerts

Fri., Aug. 30, 8 p.m., River City Casino presents En Vogue. 777 River City Casino Blvd., 63125. For more information, visit www. ticketmaster.com.

Fri., Aug. 30, 10 p.m., Da Beno Nite Club presents Trina. 6830 State St., East St. Louis, IL. 62203. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.

Fri., Sept. 6, 7 p.m., Liberty Bank Alton Amphitheater presents Nelly. 1 Riverfront Dr., Alton, IL. 62002. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.

Sun., Sept. 8, 5 p.m., Ear Hustle: A Conversation & Performance with Sy Smith and Theresa Payne Kranzberg Arts Center, 501 N. Grand Blvd., 63103. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.

Sun., Sept. 8, 6:30 p.m., Sheldon Concert Hall presents The Temptations 3648 Washington Blvd., 63108. For more information, visit www.metrotix.com.

Tues., Sept. 10, 6:30 p.m., Fox Theatre presents Lenny Kravitz. 527 N. Grand Blvd., 63103. For more information, visit www.metrotix.com.

Fri., Sept. 13, 6:30 p.m., An Evening at the Opera with Morris Robinson. A benefit concert for the Biome School and the importance of music and art education. The Ethical Society, 9001 Clayton Rd., 63117. For more information, visit www.thebiomeschool.org.

Fri., Sept. 13, 7 p.m., The Ready Room presents Pink Sweat$: Pink Beginnings Tour Part 2. 4195 Manchester Ave., 63110. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.

local gigs

Aug. 30 – 31, Heal Center for the Arts presents An Evening of Jazz. Feat. Point of View Jazz Ensemble. The OC at CWE, 4436 Olive St., 63108. For more information, visit www.eventbrite.com.

Sat., Aug. 31, 7 p.m., 15th Annual Smooth Jazz Concert feat. Marvin F. Cockrell & Focus. The Purser Center, Logan University, 1851 Schoettler Rd., 63017. For more information, call (314) 298-8818.

Tues., Sept. 3, 6 p.m., Missouri History Museum presents Twilight Tuesdays: Fabulous Motown Revue 5700 Lindell Blvd., 63112. For more information, visit www. mohistory.org.

Thur., Sept. 12, 7 p.m., St. Louis Symphony Orchestra Free Forest Park Concert. Pack a picnic, enjoy a concert and fireworks display. Art Hill, Forest Park, Fine Arts Dr., 63110. For more information, visit www.slso.org.

special events

Fri., Aug. 30, 6 p.m., Tees and Thank You and the Star Struck Divaz present the Young Gifted and Black Owned Pop Up Shop. 7281 Natural Bridge Rd., 63121. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.

Sat., Aug. 31, 7 p.m., Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Upsilon Omega Unincorporated Chapter presents The SmokeOwt: Stix & Stilettos Edition. Eagle Springs Golf Course, 2575 Redman, 63136. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.

Aug. 31 – Sept. 1, Taste of Africa 2019. Come out for

The Guide

Kenya Vaughn recommends

the food, vendors, activities, musicians, and more. O’Fallon Park, 799 E. Taylor Ave., 63147. For more information, visit www.facebook.com.

Sun., Sept. 1, 6 p.m., Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., St. Louis Alumni Chapter invites you to their Annual All White Party. Dos Salas, 1919 Washington Ave., 63103. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.

Sept. 3 – 8, St. Louis Black Restaurant Week. Participating restaurants include River Lillie, Burger 809, Prime 55 Restaurant & Lounge, and more. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.

Wed., Sept. 4, 12 p.m., SMACNA St. Louis presents the Products Trade Show. Hundreds of construction contractors, engineers, building inspectors, public officials, and more will be present. Greensfelder Recreation Complex, Queeny Park, 550 Weidman Rd., 63011. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.

Fri., Sept. 6, 6 p.m., 6th Annual Hooray For Howl E Woof 2019 Runway Show. Silent and live auctions, dinner and open bar, and a spectacular

runway show featuring local celebrities and assistance dogs. Sheraton Westport Chalet Hotel, 191 W Port Plaza, 63146. For more information, www.champdogs.org.

Fri., Sept. 6, 8 p.m., Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Omicron Theta Omega Chapter HBCU House Party. Machinists Hall, 12365 St. Charles Rock Rd., 63044. For more information, call (314) 283-8213.

Sat., Sept. 7, 10 a.m., Spirit of St. Louis Air Show & STEM Expo. Aerial demonstrations, military and civilian aircraft, and an interactive expo for children of all ages. Spirit of St. Louis Airport, 18260 Edison Ave., 63005. For more information, visit www.spirit-airshow.com.

Sat., Sept. 7, 11 a.m., 4th Annual ConsciousFest. A celebration of community, culture, vendors, performances, and more. 4057 Evans Ave., 63113. For more information, visit www.facebook.com.

Sat., Sept. 7, 11:30 a.m., Healing and Mending Ministry invites you to the 5th Annual Dine With The King Hat & Tea Party. Proceeds benefit victims of domestic violence. Hilton Garden Inn,

eventbrite.com.

Thur., Sept. 19, 5 p.m., YWCA of Metro St. Louis presents the 7th Annual Walk A Mile In Her Shoes. An international men’s march to speak out against rape, sexual assault and gender violence. Missouri Athletic Club, 405 Washington Ave., 63102. For more information, www. ywcastl.org.

Fri., Sept. 20, 9 p.m., Blaze the Stage STL Live. An evening of poetry, comedy, art, music, and more. Special Tymes Event Hall, 5950 Natural Bridge Rd., 63120. For more information, call (314) 656-7558.

Sept. 20 – 21, 47th Annual Great Forest Park Balloon Glow and Race. Central Field, Forest Park, 63112. For more information, visit www. greatforestparkballoonrace. com.

Sept. 20 – 22, Greater St. Louis Hispanic Festival. Soulard Park, 7th St. and Lafayette Ave., 63104. For more information, visit www. hispanicfestivalstl.com.

4450 Evans Pl., 63134. For more information, visit www. healmending.org.

Sat., Sept. 7, 1:30 p.m., Girls Circle YD, Inc. invites you to an All Girls Resource Fair. Women entrepreneurs are invited to be the examples girl entrepreneurs need to see. Center of Clayton, 50 Gay Ave., 63105. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.

Sun., Sept. 8, 1:30 p.m., St. Peter’s Church Annual Community Picnic. We will have an inflatable obstacle course, petting zoo, photo booth, and much more. 1425 Stein Rd., 63135. For more information, visit www. stpeterschurch.org.

Sun., Sept. 8, 3 p.m., The 7th Annual Taste in Ferguson. Feat. foods from more than 25 vendors. Proceeds help provide scholarships. The Savoy Banquet Center, 119 South Florissant Rd., 63135. For more information, visit www. thetasteinferguson.com.

Sat., Sept. 14, 10 a.m., Taste of Black St. Louis. A day with food, music, shopping, and learning. Tower Grove Park Southwest Kingshighway Experience, 63110. For more information, visit www.

Sat., Sept. 21, 6 p.m., St. Louis American Foundation 32nd Annual Salute to Excellence in Education Scholarship and Awards Gala, America’s Center. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www. stlamerican.com and click on Salute to Excellence, or call 314-533-8000.

Sat., Sept. 28, 11 a.m., The Village Resource Fair and Education Summit. Clothing assistance, safety education, finance information, cooking demonstrations, youth mentorship opportunities, and more. O’Fallon Park Rec Complex, 4343 W. Florissant Ave., 63115. For more information, call (314) 4658360.

Wed., Sept. 4, 7 p.m., St. Louis County Library hosts author Ben Westhoff, author of Fentanyl, Inc.: How Rogue Chemists Are Creating the Deadliest Wave of the Opioid Epidemic Library Headquarters, 1640 S. Lindbergh Blvd., 63131. For more information, visit www. slcl.org.

Thur., Sept. 5, 6:30 p.m., St. Louis County Library

Sheldon Concert Hall presents The Temptations. See CONCERTS for details.

hosts author Gina Whitlock Fletcher, author of Stumble to Rise: My Life Surviving and Thriving with M.S Grant’s View Branch, 9700 Musick Rd., 63123. For more information, visit www.slcl. org.

Tues., Sept. 10, 7 p.m., Left Bank Books hosts author Minda Harts, author of The Memo: What Women of Color Need to Know to Secure a Seat at the Table. Kranzberg Arts Center, 510 N. Grand Blvd., 63103. For more information, visit www.left-bank.com.

Sat., Sept. 21, 10:30 a.m., BookFest St. Louis. Attendees will enjoy author presentations, panel discussions, activities, and more. McPherson & Euclid, 63108. For more information, visit www. bookfeststl.com.

Aug. 30 – Sept. 1, The Greater St. Louis Art Association presents The Art Fair at Queeny Park Featuring up to 130 artists. Greensfelder Recreation Center, 550 Weidman Rd., 63011. For more information, visit www.artfairatqueenypark. com.

Through Sept. 1, Vaughn T. Davis, Jr.: Ascending Forms. COCA, 524 Trinity Ave., 63130. For more information, visit www.cocastl.org/event/ vaughn-t-davis-jr-ascendingforms.

Sept. 6 – 8, Saint Louis Art Fair. Featuring 181 artists from around the world exhibiting their work. 225 S. Meramec Ave., 63105. For more information, visit www. saintlouisartfair.com.

Sat., Sept. 21, 11 a.m., Black in the Abstract: Meditations on Black Artists Working With Abstraction From the 1950s to the Present. Lecture by Valerie Cassel Oliver. St. Louis Art Museum, 1 Fine Arts Dr., 63110. For more information, visit www.

Kenya Vaughn recommends

metrotix.com.

comedy

Aug. 30 – Sept. 1, Helium Comedy Club presents Kountry Wayne. 1151 St. Louis Galleria St., 63117. Sept. 6 – 8, Helium Comedy Club presents Karlous Miller 1151 St. Louis Galleria St., 63117.

Thur., Sept. 12, 7 p.m., Focus on the Funny presents the 1Life2Live Comedy Run Feat. Marquise Moore, Jason Nelson, James “JB” Buchanan, and Nicholas Cuvar. Dink’s Bar, 521 S. Vandeventer Ave., 63110. For more information, visit www.eventbrite.com.

Sept. 19 – 21, 8th Annual Compass Improv Festival.

See local and national performers including local improv troupe, U People. The Improv Shop, 3960 Chouteau Ave., 63110. For more information, visit www. compassimprov.org.

theatre

Aug. 30 – Sept. 8, TLT Productions presents Karmatic The Play. The Marcelle, 3310 Samuel Shepard Dr., 63103. For more information, visit www. metrotix.com.

Sept. 4 – Sept. 22, The Black Rep presents Don’t Bother Me, I Can’t Cope. A social commentary on economic and racial injustice is weaved into an song and dance numbers that fuse gospel with jazz, soul and calypso. Edison Theatre,

Touhill Performing Arts Center presents CeCe Winans in Concert. For more information, see SPIRITUAL.

more information, visit www. cocastl.org.

Thur., Sept. 5, 5:30 p.m., What’s Next? The CityCounty Merger. Three experts on regional governance discuss next steps now that plans for a City/County merger have collapsed. Hillman Hall, Washington University, 1 Brookings Dr., 63130. For more information, visit www. JFedSTL.org/events.

Sat., Sept. 7, 9 a.m., The Alzheimer’s Association presents Aging-Friendly Congregations Workshop. St. Andrew United Methodist Church, 3975 N. Highway 67, 63034. For more information, visit www. communityresourcefinder.org.

Wed., Sept. 11, 6:30 p.m., FAFSA Workshop. FAFSA completion assistance is also available by appointment. The Scholarship Foundation of St. Louis, 6825 Clayton Avenue, Suite 100, 63139. For more information, visit https://www. sfstl.org/

Washington University, 6465 Forsyth Blvd., 63105. For more information, visit www. theblackrep.org.

Sept. 13- Sept. 21, Slaying Dragons Theater Troupe presents A Long Day’s Journey Into Night by Eugene O’Neill, The Chapel, 6328 Alexander Drive, Clayton, MO 63105. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/ SlayingDragons1/

lectures and workshops

Thur., Aug. 29, 7:30 p.m., COCA presents Speak Now: Marcus Jarrell Williams. An intimate conversation with the former Alvin Ailey dancer. 524 Trinity Ave., 63130. For

Thur., Sept. 12, 11 a.m., Making Your Money Work for You: The Keys to Understanding Your Financial Statements. St. Louis Economic Development Partnership, 6439 Plymouth Ave., 63133. For more information, visit www. missouri.ecenterdirect.com.

Sat., Sept. 14, 8:30 a.m., SistaKeeper Empowerment Center presents the Be A Keeper! Teen Girl Summit 2.0. For girls 7-12th grade. Washington University, 1 Brookings Dr., 63130. For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com.

health

Sat., Aug. 31, 12 p.m., BloomFest: Women’s Cannabis & Health Summit. Artist Art, 2543 Cherokee St., 63118. For more information, visit www.eventbrite.com.

Sun., Sept. 15, 9 a.m.,

Families United Let’s Move St. Louis 5K Walk/Run. Our goal is to reduce Type 2 Diabetes, decrease high blood pressure, and obesity prevention. Creve Coeur Park, 13725 Marine Ave., 63146. For more information, visit www. healthyrelationshipstl.com.

Thur., Sept. 19, 9:30 a.m., Alzheimer’s Foundation of America’s National Educating America Tour. Student Center, Saint Louis University, 20 N. Grand Blvd., 63103. For more information, visit www.alzfdn.org/event.

spiritual

Through August 30, YFC Ministries presents We Are Overcomers Conference 2019. Chase Park Plaza, 212 Kingshighway Blvd., 63108. For more information, visit www.eventbrite.com.

Sept. 4 – 5, 7 p.m., Christ the King United Church of Christ Fall Revival: Born to Worship. Guest speakers: Rev. Dr. Leslie Callahan and Rev. Dr. Gina Stewart. 11370 Old Halls Ferry Rd., 63033. For more information, visit www. ctk-ucc.org.

Tues., Sept. 10, 7 p.m., FerVent 2.0: An Evening with Priscilla Shirer feat. Worship with Anthony Evans. Crosspoint Church, 5001 Little Rock Rd., 63128. For more information, visit www. ferventtheevent.com.

Sun., Sept. 15, 5:30 p.m., Arts & Faith St. Louis Ninth Annual Interfaith Concert: “Songs of Hope.” Featuring musicians from Christian, Jewish, Muslim and Buddhist vocal ensembles. The Sheldon Concert Hall, 3648 Washington Blvd., 63108. For more information, visit www. artsfaithstl.org.

Fri., Sept. 27, 8 p.m., Touhill Performing Arts Center presents CeCe Winans in Concert. 1 University Blvd., 63121. For more information, visit www.touhill.org.

Black Rep Founder and Producing Director Ron Himes, Kirven Douthit-Boyd and Antonio Douthit-Boyd discussing the company’s upcoming production, ‘Don’t Bother Me I Can’t Cope.’ Himes is the show’s director, Kirven choreographs and Antonio is a part of the performance ensemble.

this production,” said Himes.

A black musical classic

with a smile. “Ron demands so much, but he is so giving of his time and his energy and his passion. That it is helping me go back to what I do and just reevaluate how we approach the arts in our communities.”

The couple came to mind as Himes was researching the production to bring the show to the Black Rep stage.

“One of the main things that made me think about Kirven and Antonio was that on Broadway the show was choreographed by George Faison,” said Himes, who also serves as the show’s director. “Reviews talked about the ‘Ailey-esque’ choreography, so I’m like, ‘Okay.’”

According to Himes, the result of the pairing of Antonio and Kirven with the Black Rep has resulted in creative magic and has been a major inspiration.

“Watching the two of them in our rehearsal hall work, I just told Antonio, man, this is such an honor for me – for The Black Rep – to have you all in this rehearsal hall working on

“It’s really important for us to keep our classics alive because that is how we preserve our heritage and our culture by doing the work of the people whose shoulders we stand on,” Himes said of his decision to present the show after speaking with the show’s creator on how to stage it for the Black Rep.

“Don’t Bother Me I Can’t Cope” is a creative response to toll that comes with the daily fight of institutionalized racism and the challenges of being black in America, with a system built to make sure the odds are stacked against you.

“The play is very political – and it makes a lot of political statements,” Himes said.

“Unfortunately, those same political statements speak to everything we are dealing with today. We have an obligation to get this message across in the most entertaining way that we can. He has faith in the DouthitBoyds, the entire ensemble, musicians and the production staff to deliver an unforgettable presentation.

“Incredible dancing, unbelievable singing and wonderful storytelling,” Himes said. “I

think that’s what people are going to see.”

Kirven hopes that the audiences will see a piece of themselves over the course of the production for the sake of connection.

“Representation is key –especially in art,” Kirven said. “I hope that each audience member identifies some way in some part and it really makes a deep impact.”

Antonio wants “Don’t Bother Me I Can’t Cope” to spur viewers into action.

“I want them to be transformed – energized to do something,” Antonio said. “The message is very strong, and I think that they will have no choice but to be shook by the story. I want them to just to wake up and see that the arts are viable to everyone’s lives – and play a major role in the resistance. I want them to wake up, want change and be shook. I want them to become ‘woke.’”

“Don’t Bother Me I Can’t Cope,” will run September 4- September 22 at the Edison Theatre on the campus of Washington University. To purchase tickets or for more information, visit www.theblackrep. org/ or call (314) 534-3807.

Cusine

Continued from C1

just trying to put on for my culture. I want St. Louis Black Restaurant Week to be something people can look forward to every year. ” From September 3September 8, St. Louis Black Restaurant Week will return to the region. Participating restaurants include Burger 809, JC Supper Club, Just Chicken, Prime 55, River Lillie, Seafood by Crushed Velvet and TKO Grill. The establishment locations are as varied as the type of food they offer – north city, south city, north county and downtown. Also in the mix will be Harmonee Rose Lemonade, the product of a 4-year-old entrepreneur. Throughout the week, each participating restaurant will have special pricing to introduce patrons to signature items on their menus.

“St. Louis has a lot of hidden gems as far as AfricanAmerican restaurants that people don’t know about,” Williamson said. “With companies like Doordash and Uber

Eats kind of making buying food informal, I want to have people sit down in restaurants and engage and have a good time – engaging conversation and good food. I’m trying to keep dining alive.”

What Williamson is not trying to do is be divisive. He has received some social media backlash from trolls about St. Louis Black Restaurant Week accusing him of reverse racism.

He’s not diminishing the white-owned restaurants, just providing awareness to uplift and empower AfricanAmerican eateries – in the same way Clayton Restaurant Week and Downtown St. Louis Restaurant Week shed light on the cuisine hotspots in their respective regions.

“Hopefully it will spark a movement as far as people coming to restaurants more and acknowledge black restaurants more,” Williamson said.

Within his intention is also the opportunity to debunk myths and stereotypes about black owned eateries – and African-American owned businesses in general.

“Black owned restaurants are not always ghetto. The service is not always bad,” Williamson said. “I want people to see

that we have talent in the food industry too. We have talented restauranteurs and we have talented chefs. I want to change the narrative. That’s my game plan.”

He worked with the creators of the inaugural St. Louis Black Restaurant Week in 2017. Jessica Bailey brought the idea with her when her day job relocated her to St. Louis, not long after she helped stage a successful Memphis Black Restaurant Week. Bailey has since returned to Tennessee. But Williamson, a St. Louis native, saw the need to keep it going at home – and put in the work to make it happen for 2019.

“You’ve got to be the change you want to see and I’m just trying to be the change,” Williamson said. “Hopefully it will spark a movement as far as people coming to restaurants more and acknowledging black restaurants more. 2017 was the warmup. Hopefully we can keep it going.” St. Louis Black Restaurant Week 2019 will take place from September 3 – September 8 at various locations. For more information and a full list of participating establishments, visit https://stlbrw.com

WAYANS

Continued from C1

Wayans was in every scene.

“I had no lull,” Wayans said. “My turnaround was three hours. I had to be back on set.”

The idea of it seems unimaginable – at least for everyone else.

“That’s how you know you are supposed to do something,” Wayans said. “I had no apprehensions. I was just like ‘I’m going to do it.’ If you step outside of the process, it’s overwhelming to even think about.

But if you just do the work, it kind of comes easy.”

Critics have not been kind to the film – which Wayans has come to expect over the years, but declares the film a fan favorite.

“The critics will always hate me, but with the audience I’ve never heard such positive feedback,” Wayans said.

“Whenever I post about the movie, just read the comments. They love this movie – hands down my favorite. If you are a fan of mine, I feel like it’s my best work to date.”

In a perfect world, people will watch “Sextuplets” and have a smile on their faces

and feel good about what they saw when the credits roll and be grateful for their family, regardless of how outrageous the dynamic might be.

“I come from a big family and so this is some of me in this story,” Wayans said. “And the gift of it – the elixir is –that your family is your family. No matter how much they may get on your nerves, ruin your car or steal your kidney – at the end of the day, your family is going to always have your back.”

Sextuplets is currently streaming on Netflix.

Photo by Lawrence Bryant

In a perfect world, people will watch “Sextuplets” and have a smile on their faces and feel good about what they saw when the credits roll and be grateful for their family, regardless of how outrageous the dynamic might be.

Nuptials

Congratulations to Xavier Buchannan and Desiree Young who were joined in matrimony at Windows on Washington on July 14, 2019.

Reunions

Celebrations

Vashon High Class of 1974 is planning for its 45th reunion. We are in the process of rounding up all classmates. To provide or update your contact information, please email ljbady@gmail.com or contact: Joe Verrie Johnson 314-6405842, Jordan Perry 314-724-

4563, or LaVerne James-Bady 314-382-0890.

Vashon High Class of 1969 Alumni committee is planning it’s 50-year Reunion: October 18 and 19, 2019, at the Renaissance Hotel, 9801 Natural Bridge Road, Berkeley, MO. Meet and Greet will take place Friday night from 6-10 p.m. Reunion Banquet is Saturday night from 6-11 p.m. Contact Genies Jordan 314-448-6658, Yvonne Clemons 314-620-0551 for additional information or email Liz35206@yahoo.com to register.

Vashon-Hadley Old School Reunion 1960-67, October 19,

Birthdays

Robert Hicks Jr. turns 20/20! Welcome him to the 40 club on September 2!

Ashley Pace is celebrating a birthday on August 29! Happy 25th Birthday, Ashley! Hope your day is the most amazing ever! Love always, Mom, Sam, Snickers, Dainielle, Kisha, Kelsey, Lil Robert, Brittinni, Liana, Ellery, Grandma and all your Aunts, Uncles, and Cousins

On August 30, I received my first grandson, Justin R. Farrar Jr. He’s a totally amazing kid and learns things so quickly. Today I would like to say, “Happy Birthday, Justin” from your GeGe, Papa and the rest of your family. GeGe loves you so much!

2019, 2-6 pm at The Atrium in Christian Hospital. For more details text (only) Brenda Mahr at 314-580-5155 or email at: brendamahr@att.net.

Sumner High Class of 1957 Annual Dinner Buffet, September 21, 2019 at 5pm, Lombardo’s Restaurant, 10488 Natural Bridge Rd. (next to Drury Inn) For more information call Martha Ballentine at 314-456-2051.

Soldan High Class of 1974 Alumni Association is planning its 45-year reunion. Please get your contact information to dhblackjack@ charter.net or call 314-7493803.

Soldan High Class of 1970 “Reunion Committee” is sponsoring a “Bazaar” Saturday, September 14, 2019 from 7 am-12 noon at The Heritage House Apts. 2800 Olive Street, St. Louis, Mo 63103 (between Harris Stowe College and Wells Fargo). Plenty of parking in back of building. “Stop on by, surely you will find something you like.” For more information please call (314) 707-9221.

Beaumont High Class of 1979 is planning its 40-year reunion. All activities are scheduled for the weekend of September 27-29. The location is The Airport

Marriot at 10700 Pear Tree Drive, St. Louis 63134. For more information, contact Milton Jackson at 314-2764392 or Yolanda Lockhart at lockhartyo08@gmail.com.

Beaumont High Class Of 1969 will celebrate its 50-year reunion Sept 20-22, 2019 at Embassy Suites St. Charles. Come join us as we celebrate these golden years, “Living Life Like It’s Golden.” For more information contact Dennis Hayden 314 276-6188 or beaumontclassof1969@ yahoo.com or send your questions to P.O. Box 155, Florissant, MO 63032.

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

However, notices

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

Somebody please save the children. I know, I know. Last week I said I would get back to starting things off on a light note. Everybody is well aware that I’m good for a kee-kee while serving a weekend rewind of what happened in these streets as far as the kicking it. But I feel like I must let y’all know that I am also a concerned citizen. And the fact that enough children to fill a classroom won’t see another school year thanks to gun violence breaks my heart. As far as solutions, I don’t have much – except to say that it needs to be addressed like the public health crisis that it is. I’m sick over these young people – and even sicker because based on how things have gone this summer, if I took time to count or name the children who have been snatched away from their families, I would have to add to the list by the next print cycle.

Your first Salute 2019 service announcement. It’s less than a month away. I thought I would get my reminders rolling so that y’all can get your lewks all the way together. Who am I kidding? Most of the folks who will be strutting into America’s Center like the Emerald City scene from “The Wiz” have already bought, returned and upgraded gowns and tuxes at least once by now. Good for them, because you’re A game when it comes to glamour is a basic requirement. You have to have advanced placement swag for Salute. See for yourselves on Saturday September 21 as the St. Louis American Foundation presents the 32nd Annual Salute to Excellence in Education Scholarship and Awards Gala. The gala starts at 6 p.m. with a party and jazz cabaret commencing immediately afterward. The tickets are selling like spicy Popeye’s chicken sandwiches. Now you won’t have to be parked in a drive-through for 35-45 minutes hour to get one (no shade to the Louisiana kitchen specialists), but please call (314) 5338000 or visit www.stlamerican.com to get your tickets soon, because they will sell out.

Young Dro was good to go. I wasn’t expecting a sold-out crowd considering it’s been a minute since T.I.’s Grand Hustle right-hand man Young Dro was going hard on the charts. Was I the only one who hadn’t realized that “Shoulder Lean” was almost 13 years old before this week? Even still, I was not expecting to have the entire general admission and the last three rows of VIP to myself when he came through for a show at The Ambassador Friday night. It’ such a shame that it wasn’t well-attended, because I thought it was a great set – and not just from Dro. I missed a few of the opening acts, but the two that I saw delivered a solid performance. YoBanga was killing me with the backing vocals on his track that he didn’t need, but otherwise he had my attention for all of his little songs. He had a solid energy. And Bigg Rich played that empty Ambassador like it was a sold-out Busch Stadium performance. I had seen him on the scene for years before, but I still wasn’t ready for all that presence he was bringing to the stage. He even had his own baby Lenny Kravitz killing it with rock guitar as he spit his rhymes. He really put on a show – and gave the folks a wise word about knowing the business side of music before getting into deals that will have you locked down. He had the stage nice and heated for Dro to take the stage. I didn’t know what to expect because I caught him giving one of those “here we go, let me hurry up and get this over with” deep breaths while on the side steps waiting to hear his name. But the minute he put his mouth close to the microphone, it was on and cracking. He was mint condition Dro and gave people their money’s worth. The crowd was small, but got mighty when they saw that he wasn’t going to mail it in. I was thrilled with all four of his songs. Now, when the show was over, he walked off like everybody else on the gig with the clock strikes “off” on your shift. There’s no “see you later,” “thanks for rocking with me” or nothing. The end of the song was the end of his show.

Trap. Soul &Paint turnup is officially legendary. Trap Soul & Paint was back after a month away, probably a summer vacation of sorts. But the House of Soul was packed to the gills as usual on what was a busier Sunday than I planned for the week before a three-day holiday weekend. As per usual, the dexterity of the guests who could stay within the lines while dropping it like its hot still blows me away. I know I talk about them on the regular, but you must stop through and see it for yourself. And I would like to recommend that the Trap Soul and Paint team take their party on the road to at least one other market sooner than later so folks can see how STL gets down with our remix to the paint with a twist format. It’s paint with a twist, twerk and turnup! And offers guaranteed life – whether you are into art, dancing, the club, all or none of the above.

Kudos to Kris Cole. Listen, I can barely type this item because every time I think of the production that local designer Kris Cole pulled off with her fashion show The Black Swan, I have to stop and give yet another round of applause. First of all, she upgraded from UrbArts to Polish Heritage Center and had a full house. Then she had the nerve to have nearly 40 models walking her solo show. And if I start praising her for her logistics – though the urban fashion shows have stepped their game up across the board, at least here in St. Louis – you almost always have to give some leeway as far as a start time delay or and end time that runneth over! I was impressed, and y’all know how hard it is to please me. And then, to top it all off, the outfits were cute. I didn’t want to go since I had a full plate as far as my social calendar. But I would have been mad at myself for missing it. Keep up the good work.

Regina, Audrey, Brenette and Twylaa stepped were certified fresh when they stepped into the Ready Room for That 90’s Jam Friday

Richard, Rickey, Michael and 34th Grand Polemarch Reuben Shelton III, Jerome, and Michael Sunday @ Aero Event Space

Cary, Greenay and Walt were there for the party as The Trap Soul Paint Team rolled out the canvasses @ House of Soul Sunday

Daemien, Tiffany, Nikkole and Ronald showed their support for cancer survivors at the Pink Carpet Community Gala Friday @ Missouri

ESL Polemarch Marcus with Ikita, Kelli, Iesha and Dasia as the Nupes honored the election of STL’s own Reuben Shelton III as Grand Polemarch

Tashay Dennie moderated the talk during author Fredrecka McGlown book signing hosted @Exodus Gallery Sunday afternoon

Tiara Linda and Keith made sure they were fabulous, fly and photo ready for Black Swan Sunday @ The Polish Heritage Center

Trap Soul Paint was just warming up but Renee and Danzel paused their brushes for a quick pic Sunday @ House of Soul

Dr. Nicole Robinson and Linda Robinson were pretty in pink for The Pink Carpet Gala Friday @Missouri Athletic club

Model Rahja Janala and Designer Kris Cole after she packed the Polish Heritage Center for her 2nd annual solo fashion show Black Swan Sunday

Sha vs Asia was able to snag a quick pic with Atlanta rap star Young Dro before he hit the stage at the Ambassador Friday night.

Photos by V. Lang

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Foster & Adoptive Care

Coalition has open employment opportunities. For more information go to: www.foster-adopt.org/employment

COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST

ARCHS, a highly respected not-forprofit funding agency, is seeking a full-time Communications Specialist with dynamic digital-age expertise. Use creative and technical skills to convey ARCHS’ story through strategic use of social media, writing, graphic design, photos, and videos. Requirements: Minimum of a bachelor’s degree; 1-2 years of digital media experience; highly organized; deadline focused; multi-tasker; outgoing; inquisitive; have reliable transportation/ able to travel locally. ARCHS’ benefit package includes a 401(k) match. Be prepared to provide portfolio of work upon request. EMAIL initial letter of application and resume by August 30, 2019 to careers@stlarchs.org or FAX to ARCHS’ HR, 314-289-5670. No Phone Calls Please.

VIRTUALIZATION SYSTEMS ENGINEER II

Responsible for building, maintaining and proactive management of a stable and secure virtualization infrastructure, providing Tier 2 and 3 technical support, administering VMware vSphere Infrastructure, Cisco UCS infrastructure and VMware SRM with some knowledge of NetApp’s cDOT Infrastructure for related backup and DR functions. To apply, please visit: https://www. safetynational.com/careers-page/

FILINGS COMPLIANCE

ANALYST I

To be responsible for preparation and submission of insurance carrier rate, rule, and form filings to insurance departments for assigned products. Inclusive within such responsibility are communication with state regulators, documentation of filing communications and dissemination of filing status reports to various personnel and various corporate departments. This position involves moderately complex assignments, problem solving and decision making. To apply, please visit: https://www. safetynational.com/careers-page/

The Missouri Historical Society has position openings for the following:

• Director of Exhibitions

• HVAC Maintenance Technician

Please visit www.mohistory.org under the “Current Openings” tab for position details and to apply. An Equal Opportunity

FIREMEDIC

Pattonville Fire Protection District is accepting applications for a FIREMEDIC position. Must meet minimum qualification, please see website www.pattonvillefd.com for details. Apply at 13900 St. Charles Rock Road, Bridgeton, Missouri, 63044; from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., August 13th, through August 28th, 2019.

COORDINATOR

ACCOUNT SERVICES

POLICY OPERATIONS

Responsible for providing client / customer support for the department’s operational functions to include the production of Excess Workers’ Compensation transactions (New Business, Renewals, Endorsements, Cancellations, Reinstatements, Notices and Nonrenewals). This position includes the accuracy in which transactions are issued, correct billing and proper distribution of final product to our customers. To apply, please visit: https://www. safetynational.com/careers-page/

CLAIMS MANAGER LIABILITY

Responsible for handling assigned claims from initial assignment to closure as well as provide assistance in various administrative functions associated with the large casualty lines of business. To apply, please visit: https:// www.safetynational.com/ careers-page/

The St. Louis Housing Authority is seeking a highly qualified and experienced individual to serve as its Director of Operations – HCV and Public Housing. The Director of Operations is responsible for the coordination and management of the daily operations of the Housing Choice Voucher and Public Housing Programs. The selected candidate will be responsible for ensuring that admissions and occupancy are performed in accordance with HUD guidelines and SLHA policies and procedures, monitoring the HCV and Public Housing budgets, monitoring the private management agents to ensure compliance with security, safety and regulatory contract provisions, monitoring and analyzing market trends to ensure the housing programs are competitive, supervising the daily activities of departmental personnel and ensuring high performance on the PHAS and SEMAP indicators. The ideal candidate must have a minimum of a 4-year college degree from an accredited college or university and ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in property management or managing public housing programs. Must be certified as a Public Housing Manager within six (6) months of employment. Apply via website https://slha. aaimtrack.com or by mail to St. Louis Housing Authority, Attention: Althelia Thomas, 3520 Page Blvd., St. Louis MO 63106 or via email to athomas@slha.org on or before 5pm September 18, 2019. A Drug Free Work Place/EOE.

ASSISTANT CLAIMS-LARGE CASUALTY MAIL

Responsible for various tasks related to: categorizing, imaging and processing incoming mail

To apply, please visit: https:// www.safetynational.com/careers-page/careers-page/

TECHNOLOGY

SPECIALIST

Troubleshoot hardware and software problems. Install computers, peripherals, and software. Associate degree, technical school diploma, or equivalent experience in computing, networking, information technology.

Posting closes 8/28. Apply at www.fergflor.org

SENIOR PRICING ACTUARY – WORKERS COMPENSATION TREATY REINSURANCE

Responsible for providing Pricing Analyses and Technical Support for Treaty Reinsurance with a focus on Workers Compensation. To apply, please visit: https:// www.safetynational.com/ careers-page/

LOAN PROCESSOR/ HOMEOWNERSHIP ADVISOR

The Housing Partnership, Inc., a nonprofit organization, has an immediate opening for a full-time employee. Responsible for client file management for participants in the Homebuyer Services program. Establish and maintain records of client files and ensure conformity to HUD guidelines and funder requirements. Looking for individual with experience in real estate, mortgage lending or housing counseling. Aptitude with numbers and excel spreadsheets important. For more information go to www.thehousingpartnershipstl.org Please submit a resume and cover letter to The Housing Partnership, Inc., P.O. Box 16356 St. Louis, Missouri 63125 or via email to kate@thehousingpartnershipstl.org. An Equal Opportunity Employer.

PARAMEDICS

Mehlville Fire Protection District is accepting applications for the position of 12 HOUR CRITICAL CARE PARAMEDIC

Annualized wage of $59,488; $63,488 w/CCP-C Benefits include health insurance, pension, tuition reimbursement, sick leave, attendance bonus, vacation, life & disability, holiday pay, uniform allowance, wellness benefits

REQUIRED: EMT-P certification through the State of Missouri

PREFERRED: CCP-C or FP-C certification Applications accepted at www.mehlvillefire. com from August 15 – September 18, 2019. Applicant must include copies of required and relevant certifications and follow the instructions on the website under Hiring Opportunities. Equal Opportunity Employer.

SOFTWARE QUALITY ASSURANCE ANALYST I

Perform thorough inspection and methodical examination of all applications and systems under test. Ensures proper operation of software and freedom from defects. Understands basic concepts of Information Technology and software testing methodologies. Follows Quality Assurance best practices. Works at the direction of the program Test Lead. To apply, please visit: https://www. safetynational.com/careers-page/

QUALITY ASSURANCE ARCHITECT

Responsible for the development and delivery of the automated testing roadmap and pipeline. The QA Architect is a thought leader and change agent who will provide cross platform, cross tooling automation solutions that span delivery models (agile/DevOps) at different maturities. Has expertise in a broad range of solutions, tools and architectures. Ability to perform assessments, create proposals and lead the strategy, development and implementation of automated testing on a wide variety of projects. Demonstrates advanced working knowledge of automated software testing. Reports directly to the Quality Assurance manager.

To apply, please visit: https://www.safetynational.com/careers-page/

CASE WORKER PANTRY

FT position responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Food Pantry. BA/BS plus 2 years of related experience required. $13-16/ hr. Cover letter/resume to: GASA, 1127 N. Vandeventer Ave., St. Louis, MO 63113, Fax (314) 231-8126, hr@gasastl.org. EOE.

FOUNDATION ADMINISTRATOR

The City of Clayton is now accepting applications for the full-time position of Foundation Administrator for the Clayton Community Foundation. To apply, go to www.claytonmo.gov/jobs. EOE

GROUNDSKEEPER

SEASONAL

De Smet Jesuit High School seeks groundskeeper full-time from April until November each year. HS diploma or equivalent and at least one year grounds’ experience or work requiring similar skill. CDL or heavy equipment operator training a plus. Visit our website: https://www.desmet.org/about/ careers to apply. EOE M/F/D/V – Committed to Diversity and Inclusion

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Responsible for the analysis, implementation and oversight of claims administrative functions for new and renewal Large Casualty accounts.

To apply, please visit: https://www. safetynational.com/careers-page/

PRIMATE UNIT KEEPER (TEMPORARY SEASONAL)

The Saint Louis Zoo is seeking a temporary seasonal keeper to join the Primate Unit. Primary placement will be in the Primate House, although the successful candidate may assist at the Jungle of the Apes and may be assigned there depending on the needs of the unit. The position will have roughly 450-500 hours spread during the period from approximately mid-September 2019 to mid-February 2020, generally working two to three days per week. The successful candidate must be available to work weekends and during the holiday periods including potential scheduling on the holidays themselves.

Responsibilities: Successful candidates will be adaptable and flexible, able to manage a wide array of duties and responsibilities, follow all protocols, foster a safe working environment, and possess strong communication and teamwork skills. Keepers will perform a wide variety of specialized work including daily animal care, exhibit/area cleaning, enrichment, behavioral training, animal observations, animal health care, documentation and record-keeping, minor exhibit maintenance, public presentations and tours, and other related duties as needed.

Qualifications: Some college classes/credits are preferred, previous animal care experience is a plus. A strong focus on safety and attention to detail are essential. A successful candidate will bring a strong focus on teamwork and positivity to the position. Good observation skills are important, and a strong interest in animal welfare is required. Candidates must have the physical ability to perform required duties as assigned, including standing for long periods of time, lifting, bending, climbing, and working in all types of weather. A competitive candidate will actively support and embody the Saint Louis Zoo’s core values of community, creativity, openness, integrity and life-work balance; and will be passionate about providing the highest quality of life for the animals in his/her charge. All successful candidates for this position will be required to submit to a criminal background check and drug test.

Position closes on September 5, 2019

To apply, please go to http://www.stlzoo.org/about/contact/ employment/currentjobopenings/

Attention: MBE/WBE contractors and non-minority contractors

Insituform Technologies USA, LLC, 17988 Edison Ave. Chesterfield, MO 63005, is seeking subcontractor quotes for The Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District, Bissell-Coldwater-MissouriMeramec Public I/I Reduction (2020) Contract B, Letting No. 12030-015.1, Bidding Tuesday, September 17, 2019 at 2:00pm.

Potential subcontracting opportunities available for consideration on these projects include:, Closed-circuit TV inspection & cleaning of existing sewer lines including heavy cleaning, Cementitious manhole rehab, Manhole cover locate, adjustment, lid replacement, repairs, and new construction, Cured-in Place Chimney Liners, Point Repairs, Site Restoration, Sites 1 & 2 (turn key completion), Interstate hauling with a reefer truck, and Lab testing services; all in accordance with project specifications.

IMPORTANT: QUOTE LINE ITEMS ON A TURNKEY BASIS AND INCLUDE PERMITS, TRAFFIC CONTROL, SEWER BY-PASSING, ETC, IF REQUIRED.

All M/WBE and non-minority contractors should contact Greg Patton or Mark Reeves in writing (certified letter, return receipt requested) to discuss bid opportunities. In lieu of a certified letter, contact can be made by e-mail to gpatton@aegion.com and mwreeves@aegion.com. Acknowledge in your quote your company will meet the workforce per trade minority requirements per the project specifications.

A pre-bid conference for any potentially interested subcontractors will be held at Insituform Technologies USA, LLC’s Training Center , 580 Goddard Avenue, Chesterfield, MO 63005 on Tuesday, September 3, 2019 at 9:00 AM. All quotations will be evaluated for overall compliance with the project specifications, scheduling availability and pricing.

Subcontractors should review and meet the Work Force Utilization requirements of the project. All subcontractors are expected to self-perform all work quoted. If this is not the case, you must note this in your quote.

Attention: MBE/WBE contractors and non-minority contractors

Insituform Technologies USA, LLC, 17988 Edison Ave, Chesterfield, MO 63005, is seeking subcontractor quotes for The Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District, Infrastructure Repairs (Rehabilitation) (2020) Contract A, Letting No. 12020-015.1, Bidding Wednesday, September 18, 2019 at 2:00pm. Potential subcontracting opportunities available for consideration on these projects include:, Closed-circuit TV inspection & cleaning of existing sewer lines including heavy cleaning, Cementitious manhole rehab, Cured-in Place Chimney Liners, Lateral repairs, Manhole cover locate, adjustment, lid replacement, repairs, and new construction, Point Repairs, Site Restoration, Interstate hauling with a reefer truck, and Lab testing services; all in accordance with project specifications.

IMPORTANT: QUOTE LINE ITEMS ON A TURNKEY BASIS AND INCLUDE PERMITS, TRAFFIC CONTROL, SEWER BY-PASSING, ETC, IF REQUIRED.

All M/WBE and non-minority contractors should contact Greg Patton or Mark Reeves in writing (certified letter, return receipt requested) to discuss bid opportunities. In lieu of a certified letter, contact can be made by e-mail to gpatton@aegion.com and mwreeves@aegion.com. Acknowledge in your quote your company will meet the workforce per trade minority requirements per the project specifications.

A pre-bid conference for any potentially interested subcontractors will be held at Insituform Technologies USA, LLC’s Training Center, 580 Goddard Avenue, Chesterfield, MO 63005 on Tuesday, September 3, 2019 at 9:00 AM.

All quotations will be evaluated for overall compliance with the project specifications, scheduling availability and pricing. Subcontractors should review and meet the Work Force Utilization requirements of the project. All subcontractors are expected to self-perform all work quoted. If this is not the case, you must note this in your quote.

METROPOLITAN ST. LOUIS

SEWER DISTRICT

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is accepting proposals in the Purchasing Division, 2350 Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63103-2555 until 10:00 a.m. on September 26th, 2019 to contract with a company for: State Lobbying Services.

Specifications and bid forms may be obtained from www.stlmsd.com, click on the “MSD AT WORK” link, (bid opportunities). The bid document will be identified as 10139 RFP. If you do not have access to the internet, call 314.768.2735 to request a copy of this bid. Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Public Notice of Single Source Procurement

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is proposing to procure: Inlet Stones. The District is proposing a 2-month single source procurement to Wieser Concrete that ends on 10/31/19. Any inquiries should be sent to acooper@stlmsd.com.

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

ST. LOUIS COMMUNITY COLLEGE

St. Louis Community College will receive separate sealed bids for Contract No. F 20 602, New Flooring in Continuing Education Building, St. Louis Community College at Meramec, until 2:00 p.m. local time, Thursday, September 5, 2019. Bids will be publicly opened and read aloud at the office of the Manager of Engineering and Design, 5464 Highland Park Drive (Plan Room). Specifications and bid forms may be obtained from the Manager’s office, at the above address or by calling (314) 644-9770.

PREBID Meeting: By Appointment

An Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer

ST. LOUIS COMMUNITY COLLEGE

St. Louis Community College will receive separate sealed bids for Contract No. F 20 402, Library

Renovations for Study Rooms, St. Louis Community College at Forest Park, until 2:00 p.m. local time, Thursday, September 5, 2019. Bids will be publicly opened and read aloud at the office of the Manager of Engineering and Design, 5464 Highland Park Drive (Plan Room). Specifications and bid forms may be obtained from the Manager’s office, at the above address or by calling (314) 644-9770

PREBID Meeting: Voluntary August 26, 2019, 10:00 am., Front Lobby of the Library building

An Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer

ST. LOUIS COMMUNITY COLLEGE

St. Louis Community College will receive separate sealed bids for Contract No. F 20 501, Drainage Improvements, St. Louis Community College at Florissant Valley, until 2:00 p.m. local time, Thursday, September 5, 2019. Bids will be publicly opened and read aloud at the office of the Manager of Engineering and Design, 5464 Highland Park Drive (Plan Room). Specifications and bid forms may be obtained from the Manager’s office, at the above address or by calling (314) 644-9770.

Pre-bid Meeting: By Appointment Only 5464 Highland Park Drive 63110

An Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer

BID NOTICE

Little Dixie Construction, LLC (1431 Cinnamon Hill Lane, Suite 209, Columbia, Missouri 65201) an EEO employer seeks MBE and WBE subcontractors and suppliers for all divisions of work on the Boone County Family Resources Office, located in Columbia, MO. Drawings, specifications and other related contract information may be obtained by calling or emailing MacKenzie Thorp (mthorp@ldconst.com / 573-449-7200). Notable deadlines are listed below. This is a prevailing wage and tax-exempt job.

CITY OF ST. LOUIS

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

The City of St. Louis Department of Public Safety is seeking proposals from qualified third party providers to conduct all billing activities associated with the Alarm Reduction and False Alarm Management Program (burglar alarms). To obtain a copy of the RFP, please visit https://www. stlouis-mo.gov/government/ procurement/index.cfm. The RFP will be listed under “Active RFPs, RFQs and RFIs.” Proposals must be received by 4:00 p.m. CDT on Monday, September 30, 2019.

METROPOLITAN ST. LOUIS

SEWER DISTRICT

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District will receive sealed bids in the Purchasing Division, 2350 Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63103-2555 until 10:00am October 4, 2019 for: FINAL CLARIFIER COLLECTOR REPLACEMENT

Specifications and bid forms may be obtained from www.stlmsd.com - click on “MSD At Work”, then “Bidding on Projects”. The bid document will be 10134 RFQ. If you do not have access to the internet, call (314) 768-6314 to request a copy of this bid.

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

METROPOLITAN ST. LOUIS SEWER DISTRICT

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District will receive RFQ’s in the Purchasing Division, 2350 Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63103-2555 until 10:00 a.m. on September 27, 2019 to contract with a company for: 2020 Half Ton Pick Up Trucks. Specifications and bid forms may be obtained from www.stlmsd.com, click on the “MSD AT WORK” link, (bid opportunities). The bid document will be identified

METROPOLITAN ST. LOUIS SEWER DISTRICT

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District will receive RFQ’s in the Purchasing Division, 2350 Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63103-2555 until 11:00 a.m. on September 25, 2019 to contract with a company for: INLET STONES.

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Sealed proposals will be received by the Board of Public Service in Room 208 City Hall, 1200 Market Street, St. Louis, Mo. Until 1:45 PM, CT, on September 24, 2019 then publicly opened and read. Plans and Specifications may be examined on the Board of Public Service website http://www.stl-bps.org/planroom.aspx (BPS On Line Plan Room) and may be purchased directly through the BPS website from INDOX Services at cost plus shipping. No refunds will be made.

A pre-bid conference for all contractors bidding on this project will be held onsite at 2150 S. 59th Street, St. Louis, MO 63110 on September 3, 2019 at 10:00 A.M.

Bidders shall comply with all applicable City, State and Federal laws (including MBE/WBE policies).

Construction contractors, please join us to learn about upcoming construction project to restore & improve the East Waterway in Forest Park. September 11, 2–4 p.m. Dennis &

SEALED

RFI Deadlines –September 5th at 5pm CST Bids Due –September 12th at 2pm CST REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL The America’s Center is soliciting bids to repair the heating water piping on the Mechanical Mezzanine in The Dome at America’s Center that has shifted due to thermal expansion. This project involves relocating up to 800 feet of piping up to 9” to get back on the supports, with the pipe size varying from 5” to 12” diameter. A pre-bid & walkthrough meeting is scheduled for Thursday, September 5, 2019 at 10:00am. Meeting Location: 901 N. Broadway Street, St. Louis, MO 63101. Contact Robert Haskell (CxE Group) at 618-307-5883 with project inquiries. The America’s Center reserves the right to reject any or all proposals. EOE

Specifications and bid forms may be obtained from www.stlmsd.com, click on the “MSD AT WORK” link, (bid opportunities). The bid document will be identified as 10144 RFQ. If you do not have access to the internet, call 314-768-6254 to request a copy of this bid.

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

METROPOLITAN ST. LOUIS

SEWER DISTRICT

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District will receive RFQ’s in the Purchasing Division, 2350 Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63103-2555 until 10:00 a.m. on September 26, 2019 to contract with a company for: CPS Shop and Office Roof Replacement.

Specifications and bid forms may be obtained from www.stlmsd.com, click on the “MSD AT WORK” link, (bid opportunities). The bid document will be identified as 10136 RFQ. If you do not have access to the internet, call 314.768.2735 to request a copy of this bid.

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

Public Notice of Single Source Procurement

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is proposing to procure temporary help services from Nova Software in an effort to support the IT Technology Plan. The District is proposing single source procurement for this service because it does not have the internal expertise to fulfill this Information Technology role. Any inquiries should be sent to strenz@stlmsd.com.

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

All bidders must regard Federal Executive Order 11246, “Notice of Requirement for Affirmative Action to Ensure Equal Employment Opportunity”, the “Equal Opportunity Clause” and the “Standard Federal Equal Employment Specifications” set forth within and referenced at www.stl-bps.org (Announcements). INVITATION FOR DBE SUBCONTRACTOR BID Millstone Weber, LLC is requesting bids for the MoDOT I-270

electronic bidsforPenthouse Replacement andElevator Renovations, GovenorJoseph P.TeasdaleState OfficeBuilding, Raytown, Missouri,Project No.O1906-01 willbereceived byFMDC,State ofMO,UNTIL 1:30PM,Tuesday, 9/24/2019,via MissouriBUYS. Biddersmustbe registeredtobid. Forspecificproject informationand orderingplans,goto: https:// missouribuys. mo.gov.

Public Notice of Single Source Procurement

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is proposing to procure: General Electric Switchgear for Bissell Treatment Plant. The District is proposing single source procurement to Powell Industries, Inc. for this service because Powell Industries provides complete design, manufacturing, and testing in one facility decreasing cost and time. Any inquiries should be sent to ameyer@stlmsd.com. Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS

Public Notice of Single Source Procurement

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is proposing to procure: CUES Granite Net Software Annual Renewal. The District is proposing single source procurement to CUES for this service. Any inquiries should be sent to ameyer@stlmsd.com.

St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

CITY OF JENNINGS REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS PROFESSIONAL DESIGN SERVICES FOR MUNICIPAL FACILITIES – RFQ #01-19

The City of Jennings (“City”) is currently seeking a design consultant (“Firm”) to provide the professional design services required to plan, design and construct a new city hall and recreational center. Bid specifications may be obtained from Jennings City Hall, 2120 Hord Avenue, Jennings, Mo., 63136 on or after August 21, 2019, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. (CST) or via the City’s website (www.cityofjennings.org).

Sealed bids proposals shall be delivered to the above address no later than 11:00 a.m. CST, September 12, 2019. The “Firm” interviews will be conducted starting at 12:00 p.m. in the Council Room at City Hall.

Specifications and bid forms may be obtained from www.stlmsd.com, click on the “MSD AT WORK” link, (bid opportunities). The bid document will be identified as 10140 RFP. If you do not have access to the internet, call 314.768.2735 to request a copy of this bid.

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

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is proposing to procure: Service Awards. The District is proposing a single source procurement to Lipic’s Engagement that ends on December 31, 2019. Any inquiries should be sent to acooper@stlmsd.com.

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

BIDS

Rubicon Corporation 17452

Orrville Rd, Wildwood, MO 63005 is seeking Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs) and Women Business Enterprises (WBEs) for the construction of 30 single family homes. Project bids are due on Thursday, September 5, 2019 at 2:00 PM local time. Subcontracting opportunities are in the following areas: Framing; Roofing; Siding; Foundation; Flatwork; HVAC; Plumbing; Electric; Grading; and Landscaping.

All disadvantaged businesses interested in bidding any subcontract opportunities should contact Rick or Mathew at sales.rubiconcorp@ gmail.com with questions. All bids must be submitted prior to, or on due date by 2 pm. Pricing must include all taxes, fees, and permits and held for 90 days. Plans and specifications are available for free electronic download, contact estimating at the email above.

METROPOLITAN ST. LOUIS

SEWER DISTRICT

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District will receive RFQ’s in the Purchasing Division, 2350 Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63103-2555 until 11:00 a.m. on September 19, 2019 to contract with a company for: READY MIX CONCRETE.

Specifications and bid forms may be obtained from www.stlmsd.com, click on the “MSD AT WORK” link, (bid opportunities). The bid document will be identified as 10128 RFQ. If you do not have access to the internet, call 314-768-6254 to request a copy of this bid.

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

Public Notice of Single Source Procurement

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is proposing to procure record keeping services from the Vanguard Group. The District is proposing a single source procurement for this service because the District has a longstanding trust agreement with Vanguard Fiduciary Trust Company for their deferred compensation and defined contribution plans. Any inquiries should be sent to strenz@stlmsd.com. Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

CITY OF ST. LOUIS BOARD OF PUBLIC SERVICE

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS for PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTING SERVICES, ST. LOUIS LAMBERT INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT. Statements of Qualifications due by 5:00 PM CT, WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2019 at Board of Public Service, 1200 Market, Room 301 City Hall, St. Louis, MO 63103. RFQ may be obtained from BPS website www.stl-bps.org, under On Line Plan Room-Plan Room, or call Board of Public Service at 314-622-3535. 25% MBE and 5% WBE participation goals.

METROPOLITAN ST. LOUIS SEWER DISTRICT

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District will receive sealed bids in the Purchasing Division, 2350 Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri 63103-2555 until 10:00am September 19, 2019 for: VOLT SWITCHGEAR UPGRADE

Specifications and bid forms may be obtained from www.stlmsd.com - click on “MSD At Work”, then “Bidding on Projects”. The bid document will be identified as 10100 RFQ. If you do not have access to the internet, call (314) 7686314 to request a copy of this bid.

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

Public Notice of Single Source Procurement

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is proposing to procure: FOXBORO SYSTEMS SUPPORT SERVICES: SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC SYSTEMS USA was used for this service. Any inquiries should be sent to gjamison@stlmsd.com.

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

ST. LOUIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES HOUSING URBAN DEVELOPMENT CONTINUUM OF CARE FY19 GRANT

The St. Louis County Department of Human Services - Homeless Services Program is seeking proposals for the Housing Urban Development Continuum of Care FY19 Grant. The total funding available is approximately $4,173.034. 00. Proposals are due by 11:00 a.m. on September 9, 2019. A Pre-Proposal Conference will be held on August 29, 2019 from 10:00 -11:30 a.m. @ the Department of Human Services, 500 Northwest Plaza, 1st floor training room, St. Ann, MO 63074. Request For Proposal details and specifications can be obtained at the St. Louis County Bids and RFPs webpage located at http://www.stlouisco.com/ YourGovernment/BidsandRFPs

METROPOLITAN ST. LOUIS SEWER DISTRICT

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer

go

https:// missouribuys. mo.gov

Roof,Cremer

Public Notice of Single Source Procurement

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is proposing to procure temporary help services from Aarkay Technologies in an effort to support the IT Technology Plan. The District is proposing single source procurement for this service because it does not have the internal expertise to fulfill this Information Technology role. Any inquiries should be sent to strenz@stlmsd.com.

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

Public Notice of Single Source Procurement

Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is proposing to procure temporary help services from Neopoint Consulting in an effort to support the IT Technology Plan. The District is proposing single source procurement for this service because it does not have the internal expertise to fulfill this Information Technology role. Any inquiries should be sent to strenz@stlmsd.com.

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

Center,Fulton, Missouri,Project No.C1915-01 willbereceived byFMDC,State ofMO,UNTIL 1:30PM, 9/10/2019via MissouriBUYS. Biddersmustbe registeredtobid. Forspecificprojectinformation andordering plans,goto: https:// missouribuys. mo.gov Saint Louis Zoo Facilities Management Administration Building

Description: The Saint Louis Zoo is accepting bids from general contractors for the construction of an 850 square foot addition to our Facilities Management Administration Building, the installation of a new rooftop HVAC unit and the associated mechanical work, as well as the replacement of an existing flat roof. Drawings, bid documents and dates can be found on our website. https:// www.stlzoo.org/about/contact/vendoropportunities

Bids for St. Louis Community College on B0003850 for Scientific Laboratory Supply Items will be received until 2:00 P.M. (local time) on Wednesday, August 28, 2019 at the Dept. of Purchasing, 3221 McKelvey Road; Bridgeton, MO 63044, and immediately thereafter opened and read. Bid documents can be accessed on our website at www.stlcc.edu/purchasing or by calling (314) 539-5226. EOE/AA Employer.

Quincy Catholics honor nation’s first black priest

Father Augustine Tolton designated ‘venerable’ by Pope Francis

By Marissanne LewisThompson Of St. Louis Pubic Radio

Catholics in Quincy recently came together to commemorate the 122nd anniversary of Father Augustine Tolton’s death. He is widely regarded as the nation’s first black priest.

A mile-long pilgrimage procession started near the statue of Father Tolton outside of St. Peter Catholic School. Father Daren Zehnle, with the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois, said the pilgrimage recognized a man who lived by the Bible’s example.

“It’s a way for us to walk from a statue of Father Tolton outside of St. Peter’s School in Quincy to walk about a mile along the streets of the city as a public witness to the holiness of this priest and as a way of inviting others to join us and to pray with us and so that we might imitate him as he imitated Christ,” Zehnle said. Father Tolton was born into slavery in Brush Creek, Missouri, in 1854. When he was a child, he and his family narrowly escaped to Quincy as

n Tolton applied to seminary school in the states, but no one would accept him because he was black, so he studied in Rome.

Confederates shot at their boat while they drifted down the Mississippi River. Even though they escaped to a free state, Tolton would go on to endure endless racism. When he got to Quincy, area parishioners complained about him attending one of its schools. They threatened to stop giving money to the parish and take their children out of school if he was allowed to stay. He left that school to work at a tobacco factory and went to a public school in the area instead for several years.

An area priest, Father Peter McGirr, heard about his story and encouraged Tolton to attend the school where he worked. St. Peter Catholic School was one of the few schools that would accept a black student into its all-white parish school. And that’s where he discovered his calling. “As he grew up, he was serving Mass in the mornings,” Zehnle said. “He was working as sort of a janitor and a sacristan for the school.”

Zehnle said Tolton started teaching catechism classes to

black children in the area, and eventually Father McGirr asked if he wanted to be a priest. Tolton said he did, but pointed

Father Augustine Tolton was born into slavery in Missouri. He later escaped to Quincy, where he would eventually became the first black priest in the nation. Pope Francis recently gave Tolton the title “venerable,” which means heroic in virtue.

Photo: Diocese of Springfield in Illinois

out there were no black priests.

“Father McGirr said, ‘Well maybe not in the U.S., but around the world there are

some,’” Zehnle said. Tolton applied to seminary school in the states, but no one would accept him because he was black, so McGirr encouraged him to study in Rome. After he was ordained, Tolton thought he would be sent as a missionary priest in Africa. However, Cardinal Giovanni Simeoni opted to send him back to Quincy in 1886.

“Cardinal Simeoni said to him, ‘America has been called the most enlightened nation on Earth,’” Zehnle said. “‘We’ll see if she deserves that honor.’ And he went on to say, ‘If the U.S. has not yet seen a black priest, it must see one now.’”

His journey to serve in Quincy was not without its challenges. He would again face racism and bigotry, this time by another priest. Tolton requested permission from Rome to pastor elsewhere and was sent to Chicago, where he was in charge of St. Monica’s Catholic Church and the roughly 800 black Catholics in the area.

St. Monica’s at the time was operating out of a storefront. Tolton’s main priority was to build a church for his congregation with the funds that had been raised at the time. However, the basement was the only thing that was built. Father Tolton died on July 9, 1897, at the age of 43. St. Monica’s disbanded not long after.

Zehnle said the priest’s life story is one that resonates because he persevered despite huge obstacles.

“His humility,” Zehnle said. “His simplicity. His humor. His charm. His love. His charity. His devotion. I don’t think there’s any way to read even a little bit — even a short synopsis of his life without being drawn to this man. That even when met with outright prejudice and bigotry, he didn’t respond with yelling and screaming and complaints, but he responded with gentleness, with patience and with love.”

The Catholic Church is working to canonize Tolton as a saint. Pope Francis recently gave Tolton the title “venerable,” which means heroic in virtue. Zehnle said there are two more steps before his sainthood would become official, which would make him the first black saint in the U.S.

“The Holy See begins looking for cases of miraculous healings that can be attributed to his intercession,” he said.

“And if we find one of those, he’ll be declared a blessed. And then after that, if we find a second, he’ll be named a saint. And so we’re pretty optimistic that will happen.”

Follow Marissanne on Twitter: @Marissanne2011. Reprinted with permission from news.stlpublicradio.org.